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This event is dedicated to the Filipino

People on the occasion of the visit


of Pope Francis here in the
Philippines on October 23 to 27, 2014
The Pope in
Manila
A Special Tri-Media
Coverage
a
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The Pope in Manila (October 23
to 27, 2014)
Contents
About the project ............................................................................................... 1
Executive Branch of the Philippines ......................................................................... 2
Presidents of the Republic of the Philippines ......................................................................... 2
Vice Presidents of the Republic of the Philippines ................................................................ 2
Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Philippines .............................................. 3
Presidents of the Senate of the Philippines ............................................................................ 3
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines ........................................................ 4
Leaders of the Roman Catholic Church .................................................................. 5
Pope (Roman Catholic Bishop of Rome and Worldwide Leader of Roman Catholic
Church) ......................................................................................................................................... 5
Roman Catholic Archbishop of Manila ................................................................................ 11
Preparations for the event ...................................................................................... 12
Paseo de Manila tourism zone to rise in Luneta Park ......................................................... 12
The 2013 Year-End Report ....................................................................................................... 14
DOLE A year of building legacy .......................................................................................... 20
The Pope in Manila: Pre-papal activities .............................................................................. 35
History of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide............................................................................ 36
The visit ..................................................................................................................... 40
Pope Francis' First Visit to the Philippines (October 2014).................................................. 40
After the celebration .............................................................................................................. 210

About the project
The Preparation for the Visit of Pope Francis was announced on July 28, 2014. The
tri-media coverage was on all local television networks, national newspapers
and radio stations to cover it the event. It was the once of a lifetime event to
celebrate the Roman Catholic Charismatic renewal religious movement Jesus is
Lord Church on its annual anniversary celebration in October since 1979 and
the 20
th
anniversary of the song Tell the World of His Love composed by Trina
Belamide. It was the theme song of Tenth World Youth Day 1995 Manila, held last
January 12 to 15, 1995.
The project: The Pope in Manila 2014 was formally planned in November 2013
after the installation of Pope Francis on March 13, 2013 in Vatican. The date of
the visit of the Pope from October 23 to 27, 2014 in Manila and again, January 15
to 19, 2015 for the Twentieth Anniversary of World Youth Day Manila held last
January 12 to 15, 1995.
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The month-long Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Anniversary Festival opens on
October 1 at the Rizal Park and ends on October 29, 2014.
Executive Branch of the Philippines
Presidents of the Republic of the Philippines
1. Emilio F. Aguinaldo (June 12, 1898 (Term began with the formal
establishment of the Malolos Republic, considered the First Philippine
Republic.) - April 1, 1901 (Term ended when Aguinaldo was captured by
U.S. forces at Palanan, Isabela.)
2. Manuel Luis M. Quezon (November 15, 1935 August 1, 1944) (Died due to
tuberculosis at Saranac Lake, New York.)
3. Jos P. Laurel (October 14, 1943 August 17, 1945) (Term ended with his
dissolving the Philippine Republic in the wake of the surrender of
Japanese forces to the Americans at World War II.)
4. Sergio Osmea, Sr. (August 1, 1944 May 28, 1946)
5. Manuel A. Roxas (May 28, 1946 April 15, 1948) (Died due to a heart
attack at Clark Air Base.)
6. Elpidio Quirino (April 17, 1948 December 30, 1953)
7. Ramon F. Magsaysay (December 30, 1953 March 17, 1957) (Died on a
plane crash at Mount Manunggal, Cebu.)
8. Carlos P. Garcia (March 17, 1957 December 30, 1961)
9. Diosdado P. Macapagal (December 30, 1961 December 30, 1965)
10. Ferdinand E. Marcos (December 30, 1965 February 25, 1986) (Deposed in
the 1986 People Power Revolution.)
11. Corazon S. Cojuangco-Aquino (February 25, 1986 June 30, 1992)
12. Fidel V. Ramos (June 30, 1992 June 30, 1998)
13. Joseph M. Ejrcito-Estrada (June 30, 1998January 20, 2001) (Deposed
after the Supreme Court declared Estrada as resigned and the office of
the presidency as vacant as a result, after the 2001 EDSA Revolution.)
14. Gloria M. Macapagal-Arroyo (January 20, 2001June 30, 2010)
15. Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III (June 30, 2010June 30, 2016)
Vice Presidents of the Republic of the Philippines
1. Mariano C. Tras (March 22, 1897 November 2, 1897) (Term ended with
the Pact of Biak na Bato.)
2. Sergio Osmea (November 15, 1935 August 1, 1944)
3. Elpidio Quirino (May 28, 1946 April 17, 1948)
4. Fernando Lpez (December 30, 1949 December 30, 1953)
5. Carlos P. Garcia (December 30, 1953 March 17, 1957) (Succeeded after
the death of president.)
6. Diosdado Macapagal (December 30, 1957 December 30, 1961)
7. Emmanuel Pelaez (December 30, 1961 December 30, 1965)
8. Fernando Lpez (December 30, 1965 - September 23, 1972)
9. Arturo M. Tolentino (February 16, 1986 February 25, 1986) (Term ended
when Marcos was overthrown in the 1986 People Power Revolution)
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10. Salvador H. Laurel (February 25, 1986 June 30, 1992) (Assumed vice
presidency by claiming victory in the disputed 1986 snap election.)
11. Joseph M. Ejercito-Estrada (June 30, 1992 June 30, 1998)
12. Gloria M. Macapagal-Arroyo (June 30, 1998 January 20, 2001)
13. Teofisto T. Guingona, Jr. (February 7, 2001 June 30, 2004) (Nominated by
President Arroyo and confirmed by Congress.)
14. Noli L. de Castro, Jr. (June 30, 2004 June 30, 2010)
15. Jejomar C. Binay, Sr. (June 30, 2010 June 30, 2016)
Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Philippines
1. Sergio S. Osmea, Sr. (October 16, 1907 1922)
2. Manuel A. Roxas, Sr. (1922-1933)
3. Quintin Paredes (1933-1935)
4. Gil Montilla (November 25, 1935 December 30, 1938)
5. Jos Yulo (December 30, 1938 December 30, 1941)
6. Benigno Simeon Q. Aquino, Sr. (September 25, 1943 February 2, 1944)
7. Jose Zulueta (June 9, 1945 December 20, 1945)
8. Eugenio Prez (May 25, 1946 December 30, 1953)
9. Jos B. Laurel, Jr. (January 25, 1954 December 30, 1957)
10. Daniel Z. Romualdez (January 27, 1958 March 9, 1962)
11. Cornelio T. Villareal (March 9, 1962 February 2, 1967)
12. Jos B. Laurel, Jr. (February 2, 1967 April 1, 1971)
13. Cornelio T. Villareal (April 1, 1971 September 23, 1972)
14. Querube C. Makalintal (June 12, 1978 June 30, 1984)
15. Nicanor E. Yiguez (July 23, 1984 March 25, 1986)
16. Ramon V. Mitra, Jr. (July 27, 1987 June 30, 1992)
17. Jose C. de Venecia, Jr. (July 27, 1992 June 30, 1998)
18. Manuel B. Villar, Jr. (July 27, 1998 November 13, 2000)
19. Arnulfo Fuentebella (November 13, 2000 January 24, 2001)
20. Feliciano R. Belmonte Jr. (January 24, 2001 June 30, 2001)
21. Jose de Venecia, Jr. (July 23, 2001 February 5, 2008)
22. Prospero C. Nograles (February 5, 2008 June 30, 2010)
23. Feliciano R. Belmonte Jr. (July 26, 2010 June 30, 2016)
Presidents of the Senate of the Philippines
1. Manuel Luis M. Quezon (October 16, 1916-1935)
2. Manuel A. Roxas (July 9, 1945- May 25, 1946)
3. Jos Avelino (May 25, 1946 February 21, 1949)
4. Mariano Jess D. Cuenco (February 21, 1949 December 30, 1951)
5. Quintin Paredes (March 5, 1952 - April 17, 1952)
6. Camilo Osas (April 17, 1952 April 30, 1952)
7. Eulogio A. Rodriguez, Sr. (April 30, 1952 April 17, 1953)
8. Camilo Osas (April 30, 1953 May 20, 1953)
9. Jose Zulueta (May 20, 1953 December 30, 1953)
10. Eulogio A. Rodriguez, Sr. (January 25, 1954 April 5, 1963)
11. Ferdinand Emmanuel E. Marcos (April 5, 1963 December 30, 1965)
12. Arturo M. Tolentino (January 17, 1966 January 26, 1967)
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13. Gil J. Puyat (January 26, 1967 September 23, 1972)
14. Jovito R. Salonga (July 27, 1987 January 1, 1992)
15. Neptali A. Gonzales, Sr. (January 1, 1992 January 18, 1993)
16. Edgardo J. Angara (January 18, 1993 August 28, 1995)
17. Neptali A. Gonzales, Sr. (August 29, 1995 October 10, 1996)
18. Ernesto M. Maceda (October 10, 1996 January 26, 1998)
19. Neptali A. Gonzales, Sr. (January 26, 1998 June 30, 1998)
20. Marcelo B. Fernan (July 27, 1998 June 28, 1999)
21. Blas F. Ople (June 29, 1999 July 12, 2000)
22. Franklin M. Drilon (July 12, 2000 November 13, 2000)
23. Aquilino Q. Pimentel, Jr. (November 13, 2000 June 30, 2001)
24. Franklin M. Drilon (July 23, 2001 July 24, 2006)
25. Manuel B. Villar, Jr. (July 24, 2006 November 17, 2008)
26. Juan Ponce Enrile (November 17, 2008 June 5, 2013)
27. Jinggoy P. Ejercito-Estrada (June 5, 2013 June 30, 2013)
28. Franklin M. Drilon (July 22, 2013 June 30, 2016)
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines
1. Cayetano L. Arellano (June 15, 1901 April 1, 1920)
2. Victorino Mapa (July 1, 1920 October 31, 1921)
3. Manuel Araullo (November 1, 1921 July 26, 1924)
4. Ramn Avancea (April 1, 1925 December 24, 1941)
5. Jos B. Abad Santos (December 24, 1941 May 2, 1942)
6. Jos Yulo (February 5, 1942 July 9, 1945)
7. Manuel Moran (July 9, 1945 March 20, 1951)
8. Ricardo Paras (April 2, 1951 February 17, 1961)
9. Csar Bengzon (April 28, 1961 May 29, 1966)
10. Roberto Concepcion (June 17, 1966 April 18, 1973)
11. Querube Makalintal (October 31, 1973 December 22, 1975)
12. Fred A. Ruiz Castro (January 2, 1976 April 19, 1979)
13. Enrique Fernando (July 2, 1979 July 24, 1985)
14. Felix Makasiar (July 25, 1985 November 19, 1985)
15. Ramon Aquino (November 20, 1985 March 6, 1986)
16. Claudio Teehankee (April 2, 1986 April 18, 1988)
17. Pedro Yap (April 19, 1988 June 30, 1988)
18. Marcelo Fernan (July 1, 1988 December 6, 1991)
19. Andres R. Narvasa (December 1, 1991 November 30, 1998)
20. Hilario G. Davide, Jr. (November 30, 1998 December 20, 2005)
21. Artemio V. Panganiban (December 20, 2005 December 7, 2006)
22. Reynato Puno (December 8, 2006 May 17, 2010)
23. Renato C. Corona (May 17, 2010 May 29, 2012)
24. Antonio T. Carpio (May 29, 2012 August 25, 2012)
25. Maria Lourdes P.A. Sereno (August 25, 2012 July 2, 2030)
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Leaders of the Roman Catholic Church
Pope (Roman Catholic Bishop of Rome and Worldwide Leader of Roman Catholic
Church)
1. Innocent I
2. Zosimus
3. Boniface I
4. Celestine I
5. Sixtus III
6. Leo I
7. Hilarius
8. Simplicius
9. Felix III
10. Gelasius I
11. Anastasius II
12. Symmachus
13. Hormisdas
14. John I
15. Felix IV
16. Boniface II
17. John II
18. Agapetus I
19. Silverius
20. Vigilius
21. Pelagius I
22. John III
23. Benedict I
24. Pelagius II
25. Gregory I
26. Sabinian
27. Boniface III
28. Boniface IV
29. Adeodatus I
30. Boniface V
31. Honorius I
32. Severinus
33. John IV
34. Theodore I
35. Martin I
36. Eugene I
37. Vitalian
38. Adeodatus II
39. Donus
40. Agatho
41. Leo II
42. Benedict II
43. John V
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44. Conon
45. Sergius I
46. John VI
47. John VII
48. Sisinnius
49. Constantine
50. Gregory II
51. Gregory III
52. Zachary
53. Stephen II
54. Paul I
55. Stephen III
56. Adrian I
57. Leo III
58. Stephen IV
59. Paschal I
60. Eugene II
61. Valentine
62. Gregory IV
63. Sergius II
64. Leo IV
65. Benedict III
66. Nicholas I
67. Adrian II
68. John VIII
69. Marinus I
70. Adrian III
71. Stephen V
72. Formosus
73. Boniface VI
74. Stephen VI
75. Romanus
76. Theodore II
77. John IX
78. Benedict IV
79. Leo V
80. Sergius III
81. Anastasius III
82. Lando
83. John X
84. Leo VI
85. Stephen VII
86. John XI
87. Leo VII
88. Stephen VIII
89. Marinus II
90. Agapetus II
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91. John XII
92. Benedict V
93. Leo VIII
94. John XIII
95. Benedict VI
96. Benedict VII
97. John XIV
98. John XV
99. Gregory V
100. Sylvester II
101. John XVII
102. John XVIII
103. Sergius IV
104. Benedict VIII
105. John XIX
106. Benedict IX
107. Sylvester III
108. Benedict IX
109. Gregory VI
110. Clement II
111. Benedict IX
112. Damasus II
113. Leo IX
114. Victor II
115. Stephen IX
116. Nicholas II
117. Alexander II
118. Gregory VII
119. Victor III
120. Urban II
121. Paschal II
122. Gelasius II
123. Callixtus II
124. Honorius II
125. Innocent II
126. Celestine II
127. Lucius II
128. Eugene III
129. Anastasius IV
130. Adrian IV
131. Alexander III
132. Lucius III
133. Urban III
134. Gregory VIII
135. Clement III
136. Celestine III
137. Innocent III
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138. Honorius III (Cencio Savelli) (18 July, 1216 18 March, 1227)
139. Gregory IX (Ugolino di Conti) (19 March, 1227 22 August, 1241)
140. Celestine IV (Goffredo da Castiglione) (25 October, 1241 - 10
November, 1241)
141. Innocent IV (Sinibaldo Fieschi) (25 June, 1243 7 December, 1254)
142. Alexander IV (Rinaldo di Jenne) (12 December, 1254 - 25 May,
1261)
143. Urban IV (Jacques Pantalon) (29 August, 1261 2 October, 1264)
144. Clement IV (Guy Foucois) (5 February, 1265 29 November, 1268)
145. Gregory X (Teobaldo Visconti) (1 September, 1271 10 January,
1276)
146. Innocent V (Pierre de Tarentaise) (21 January, 1276 22 June, 1276)
147. Adrian V (Ottobuono de' Fieschi) (11 July, 1276 18 August 1276)
148. John XXI (Pedro Julio) (13 September, 1276 20 May, 1277)
149. Nicholas III (Giovanni Gaetano Orsini) (25 November, 1277 22
August, 1280)
150. Martin IV (Simon de Brion) (21 February, 1281 28 March, 1285)
151. Honorius IV (Giacomo Savelli) (2 April, 1285 3 April, 1287)
152. Nicholas IV (Girolamo Masci) (22 February, 1288 4 April, 1292)
153. Celestine V(Pietro Angelerio) (5 July, 1294 13 December, 1294)
154. Boniface VIII (Benedetto Caetani) (24 December, 1294 11
October, 1303)
155. Benedict XI (Nicola Boccasini) (22 October, 1303 7 July, 1304)
156. Clement V (Raymond Bertrand de Got) (5 June, 1305 - 20 April,
1314)
157. John XXII (Jacques Duze) (7 August, 1316 4 December, 1334)
158. Benedict XII (Jacques Fournier) (20 December, 1334 - 25 April, 1342)
159. Clement VI (Pierre Roger) (7 May, 1342 - 6 December, 1952)
160. Innocent VI (tienne Aubert) (18 December 1352 12 September
1362)
161. Urban V (William de Grimoard) (28 September, 1362 19 December,
1370)
162. Gregory XI (Pierre Roger De Beaufort) (30 December, 1370 27
March, 1378)
163. Urban VI (Bartolomeo Prignano) (8 April 1378 15 October 1389))
164. Boniface IX (Piero Tomacelli) (2 November 1389 1 October 1404)
165. Innocent VII Cosimo de' Migliorati (17 October, 1404 6 November,
1406)
166. Gregory XII (Angelo Correr or Corraro) (30 November, 1406 4 July,
1415)
167. Martin V (Oddone Colonna) (11 November, 1417 20 February,
1431)
168. Eugene IV (Gabriele Condulmer) (3 March, 1431 23 February,
1447)
169. Nicholas V (Alfons de Borja) (8 April, 1455 6 August, 1458)
170. Callixtus III (Tommaso Parentucelli) (8 April, 1455 6 August, 1458)
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171. Pius II (Enea Silvio Bartolomeo Piccolomini) (19 August 1458 14
August, 1464)
172. Paul II (Pietro Barbo) (30 August 1464 26 July, 1471)
173. Sixtus IV (Francesco della Rovere) (9 August, 1471 12 August, 1484)
174. Innocent VIII (Giovanni Battista Cybo) (29 August, 1484 - 25 July,
1492)
175. Alexander VI (Roderic Llanol) (11 August, 1492 - 18 August, 1503)
176. Pius III (Francesco Todeschini Piccolomini) (22 September, 1503 - 18
October, 1503)
177. Julius II (Giuliano della Rovere) (1 November, 1503 21 February,
1513)
178. Leo X (Giovanni di Lorenzo de' Medici) (9 March, 1513 1
December, 1521)
179. Adrian VI (Adriaan Floriszoon Boeyens) (9 January, 1522 14
September, 1523)
180. Clement VII (Giulio di Giuliano de' Medici) (19 November 1523 25
September, 1534)
181. Paul III (Alessandro Farnese )(13 October, 1534 10 November,
1549)
182. Julius III (Giovanni Maria Ciocchi del Monte) (7 February, 1550 23
March, 1555)
183. Marcellus II (Marcello Cervini degli Spannochi) (9 April 1555 1 May
1555)
184. Pius IV (Giovanni Angelo Medici) (25 December 1559 - 9 December
1565)
185. Pius the Fifth (Antonio Ghislieri) (8 January 1566 - 1 May 1572)
186. Gregory XIII (Ugo Boncompagni) (13 May 1572 10 April 1585)
187. Sixtus V (Felice Peretti di Montalto) (24 April 1585 27 August 1590)
188. Urban VII (Giovanni Battista Castagna) (15 September 1590 27
September 1590)
189. Gregory XIV (Niccol Sfondrati) (5 December 1990 16 October
1591)
190. Innocenth XI (Giovanni Antonio Facchinetti) (29 October 1591 30
December 1591)
191. Clement VIII (Ippolito Aldobrandini) (30 January 1592 3 March
1605)
192. Leo XI (Alessandro Ottaviano de' Medici) (1 April 1605 27 April
1605)
193. Paul V(Camillo Borghese) 16 May 1605 28 January 1621)
194. Gregory XV (Alessandro Ludovisi) (9 February 1621 8 July 1623)
195. Urban the Eighth (Maffeo Barberini) (6 August 1623 29 July 1644)
196. Innocent the Tenth (Giovanni Battista Pamphilj) (15 September 1644
7 January 1655)
197. Alexander the Seventh (Fabio Chigi) (7 April 1655 22 May 1667)
198. Clement the Ninth (Giulio Rospigliosi) (20 June 1667 9 December
1669)
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199. Clement the Tenth (Emilio Bonaventura Altieri) (29 April 1670 - 22
July 1676)
200. Innocent the Eleventh (Benedetto Odescalchi) (21 September 1676
- 12 August 1689)
201. Alexander the Eighth (Pietro Vito Ottoboni) (6 October 1689 1
February 1691)
202. Innocent the Eleventh (Antonio Pignatelli) (12 July 1691 27
September 1700)
203. Clement the Eleventh (Giovanni Francesco Albani) (23 November
1700 19 March 1721)
204. Innocent the Thirteenth (Michelangelo dei Conti) (8 May 1721 - 7
March 1724)
205. Benedict the Thirteenth (Pietro Francesco Orsini) (29 May 1724 21
February 1730)
206. Clement the Twelfth (Lorenzo Corsini) (12 July 1730 6 February
1740)
207. Benedict the Fourteenth (Prospero Lorenzo Lambertini) (17 August
1740 May 3, 1758)
208. Clement the Thirteenth (Carlo della Torre di Rezzonico) (16 July 1758
- 2 February 1769)
209. Clement the Fourteenth (Giovanni Vincenzo Antonio Ganganelli)
(19 May 1769 - 22 September 1774)
210. Pius the Sixth (Count Giovanni Angelo Braschi) (15 February 1775 -
29 August 1799)
211. Pius the Seventh (Barnaba Niccol Maria Luigi Chiaramonti) (14
March 1800 - 20 August 1823)
212. Leo the Eleventh (Annibale Francesco Clemente Melchiore
Girolamo Nicola Sermattei della Genga) (28 September 1823 - 10
February 1829)
213. Pius the Eighth (Francesco Saverio Castiglioni) (31 March 1829 - 30
November 1830)
214. Gregory the Sixteenth (Bartolomeo Alberto Cappellari) (2 February
1831 - 1 June 1846)
215. Pius the Ninth (Giovanni Maria Mastai-Ferretti) (16 June 1846 - 7
February 1878)
216. Leo the Thirteenth (Vincenzo Gioacchino Raffaele Luigi Pecci) (20
February 1878 - 20 July 1903)
217. Pius the Tenth (Giuseppe Melchiorre Sarto) (4 August 1903 - 20
August 1914)
218. Benedict the Fifteenth (Giacomo Paolo Giovanni Battista della
Chiesa) (3 September 1914 - 22 January 1922)
219. Pius the Eleventh (Ambrogio Damiano Achille Ratti) (6 February
1922 - 10 February 1939)
220. Pius the Twelfth (Eugenio Maria Giuseppe Giovanni Cardinal
Pacelli) (2 March 1939 9 October 1958)
221. John 23rd (Angelo Giuseppe Cardinal Roncalli) (28 October 1958
3 June 1963)
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222. Paul 6 (Giovanni Battista Enrico Antonio Maria Cardinal Montini) (21
June 1963 - 6 August 1978)
223. John Paul 1
224. John Paul 2 (Karol Jzef Cardinal K. Wojtya) (16 October 1978 - 2
April 2005)
225. Benedict 16 (Joseph Cardinal P. Ratzinger) (19 April 2005 - 28
February 2013)
226. Francis (Jorge Mario Cardinal S. Bergoglio) (13 March, 2013
present)
Roman Catholic Archbishop of Manila
1. Domingo de Salazar, O. P. (February 6, 1579 - December 4, 1594)
2. Ignacio Santibez, O.F.M. (August 30, 1595 - August 14, 1598)
3. Miguel de Benavides, O. P. (October 7, 1602 - July 26, 1605)
4. Diego Vzquez de Mercado (March 28, 1608 - June 12, 1616)
5. Miguel Garca Serrano, O.S.A. (February 12, 1618 - June 14, 1629)
6. Hernando Guerrero, O.S.A. (January 9, 1634 July 1, 1641)
7. Fernando Montero de Espinosa (May 20, 1644 1645)
8. Miguel de Poblete - September 9, 1650 December 8, 1667)
9. Juan Lpez, O. P. (1672 - February 12, 1674)
10. Felipe Pardo, O. P. (October 28, 1681 - December 31, 1689)
11. Diego Camacho y vila (August 19, 1696 - January 14, 1704)
12. Francisco de la Cuesta, O.S.H. (August 12, 1707 1722)
13. Carlos Bermudez Gonzalez (1722 - November 13, 1729)
14. Juan ngel Rodrguez, O.S.T. (May 18, 1731 - June 24, 1742)
15. Pedro de la Santsima Trinidad Martnez de Arizala,O.F.M. February 3, 1744
- May 28, 1755
16. Manuel Antonio Rojo del Ro y Vieyra 1758 - 1764
17. Basilio Sancho de Santa Justa, S.P. April 14, 1766 - December 15, 1787
18. Juan Antonio Orbigo de Gallego, O.F.M. December 15, 1788 - May 17,
1797
19. Juan Antonio Zulaibar, O. P. March 26, 1804 - March 4, 1824)
20. Hilarin Dez, O.S.A. (July 3, 1826 - May 7, 1829)
21. Jos Segu, O.S.A. (July 5, 1830 - July 4, 1845)
22. Jos Aranguren, O.A.R. January 19, 1846 - April 18, 1861)
23. Gregorio Melitn Martnez Santa Cruz (December 23, 1861 1875)
24. Pedro Payo y Pieiro, O.P. (January 28, 1876 January 1, 1889)
25. Bernardino Nozaleda y Villa, O. P. (May 27, 1889 February 4, 1902)
26. Jeremiah James Harty (June 6, 1903 - May 16, 1916)
27. Michael J. O'Doherty (September 6, 1916 - October 13, 1949)
28. Gabriel M. Reyes (October 13, 1949 - October 15, 1952)
29. Rufino J. Cardinal Santos (February 10, 1953 - September 3, 1973)
30. Jaime Cardinal L. Sin (September 3, 1973 - November 18, 2003)
31. Gaudencio Cardinal B. Rosales (November 21, 2003 - December 12, 2011)
32. Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle (December 12, 2011 - present)
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Preparations for the event (August 2013-September 30, 2014)
Paseo de Manila tourism zone to rise in Luneta Park
The country's national park agency has bigger plans to redevelop the People's
Park
By Pia Ranada, Rappler.com
MANILA, Philippines, August 30, 2013 - A tourism enterprise zone dubbed Paseo
de Manila will rise in Luneta Park, Juliet Villegas, outgoing National Parks
Development Committee (NPDC) director, announced on Friday, August 30.
In a public presentation held in Makati, Villegas showed a graphic of the
proposed development meant to attract more local and foreign tourists to the
national park and stimulate economic growth in the area. Paseo de Manila will
be constructed in the western part of the park, near Quirino Grand Stand and
Manila Ocean Park.
The graphic showed 8 new proposed buildings, ranging from 3 to 15 stories high.
Villegas said proposals recommended that these buildings be boutique hotels,
restaurants or shopping centers.
All 8 buildings will feature a "green roof" or roof garden to add greenery to the
park as a whole.
"It is now undergoing a validation plan, because in Tourism Act of 2009, Luneta
Park is designated as a flagship destination to become a tourism enterprise zone
together with Intramuros," explained Villegas.
Paseo de Manila is just one of the key proposals for the redevelopment of the 54-
hectare People's Park.
The agency also plans to add more entry points to the park. One in the works will
connect the United Nations LRT-1 station to the children's playground. A raised
walkway "decorated with vines and flowers" will connect Luneta to Intramuros,
said Villegas.
An airconditioned glass-walled Visitor's Center will be constructed as a hub for
tourists who both want to know more about the park and rest from the heat.
The Rizal Park Amphitheater designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin will be
outfitted with a modern canopy so that public events like concerts or film-
screenings can enjoy protection from rain. Park-goers can see the finished
product for themselves in October when the Philharmonic Orchestra formally
opens the amphitheater to the public.
Revival
Stretching from Taft Avenue to Manila Bay, Luneta is said to be the largest urban
park in Asia. Since the 1800s, it has served as the People's Park, the preferred
venue for public events like: the Feast of the Black Nazarene (January 8-9), El
Shaddai Easter Overnight Celebration (every Black Saturday to Easter Sunday),
Independence Day (June 12), El Shaddai Anniversary Celebration and 2014
Million People March protest.
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The NPDC, an agency under the Department of Tourism, is the designated
steward of Luneta. When Villegas was appointed NPDC head in 2010, she set out
to fix the most glaring problems that pulled down the public park from its "golden
age" in the 70s, when Filipinos from every economic class patronized it.
"Due to budget constraints, the park couldn't do as much. It was just going
through the rounds of sweeping, cleaning, garbage-disposal. There were a lot of
overgrown shrubs and trees that made the park darker at night. Some of the
bulbs were busted," she recounted during a public presentation in Makati.
The park increasingly became more crime-prone, with the notorious "palakpak
boys" mugging park-goers and carrying out petty crimes. The August 2010
hostage-taking of Chinese tourists in a bus in nearby Quirino Grand Stand
cemented Luneta's menacing reputation in the minds of local and foreign
tourists.
With P300 million allotted to the NPDC for 2010 to 2013, Villegas sought to make
quick but effective fixes to the park.
She is proud to report a lower crime rate due to the 24-hour security provided by
tourist police and CCTV cameras. Jog lanes now run through the park. "Green"
rest rooms that collect rainwater for the flushing of toilets are open to park-goers.
With the help of urban planner Paulo Alcazaren, who is also leading the revival
of Roxas Boulevard, the agency has rehabilitated many of the park's most
famous features: Paco Park, the giant relief map of the Philippines, Flower Clock,
children's playground, musical dancing fountain, and diorama of Jose Rizal's
martyrdom.
READ: Bike-friendly, billboard-free Roxas Boulevard?
Private-public partnerships have added new features like sculptures, mosaic
murals, the Senior Citizen's Garden and bus stops for tourists.
The importance of urban parks
Urban parks pose many benefits to communities.
According to University of California Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, urban
parks improve quality of life and and provide "visual and psychological relief" for
weary city dwellers.
Parks encourage healthy physical activities like sports, and create a sense of
community by providing space for interaction and gatherings.
Dubbed the "green lungs" of a city, urban parks also offer many environmental
benefits. Their trees and plants help cool cities by lowering surface and air
temperature. The shade they provide can lower temperature of surfaces by 11
to 25 degrees Celsius. Cooling also happens when water evaporates from soil
and transpires from plants.
Trees and vegetation lessen air pollution from the heightened commercial
activity and traffic of vehicles in urban zones. Along with soil, park greenery
mitigates flooding by absorbing water run-off.
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To maximize these environmental benefits, NPDC unpaved the park's concrete
walkways to allow floodwater to seep through and be absorbed by the soil.
About 20 hectares of what was once pavement are now trees and vegetation.
Though it seems that NPDC's efforts have revitalized Luneta Park, Villegas knows
this is only the beginning.
We have too few public parks in the country. While our mandate only covers
Luneta, Paco Park and Pook ni Mariang Makiilng in Laguna, we can work
towards creating more parks nationwide, she said. - Rappler.com
The 2013 Year-End Report
Super-typhoon Yolanda in APs 2013 Top 10 stories
New York, New York, USA, December 23, 2013 (AP) The glitch-plagued rollout of
President Barack Obamas health care overhaul was the top news story of 2013, followed
by the Boston Marathon bombing and the dramatic papal changeover at the Vatican,
according to The Associated Press annual poll of US editors and news directors.
The saga of Obamacare as the Affordable Care Act is widely known received 45
first-place votes out of the 144 ballots cast for the top 10 stories.
The marathon bombing received 29 first-place votes and the papal transition 21.
Other strong contenders were the bitter partisan conflict in Congress and the leaks about
National Security Agency surveillance by former NSA analyst Edward Snowden.
Last year, the top story was the massacre of 26 children and staff at an elementary school
in Newtown, Connecticut.
That result came after a rare decision by the AP to re-conduct the voting; the initial round
of balloting had ended Dec. 13, a day before the Newtown shooting, with the 2012
election at the top.
The first AP top-stories poll was conducted in 1936, when editors chose the abdication of
Britains King Edward VIII.
APs 2013 top 10 stories, in order:
HEALTH CARE OVERHAUL: The White House had hoped the Oct. 1 launch of open
enrollment would be a showcase for the upside of Obamas much-debated health care
overhaul.
Instead, the website became a symbol of dysfunction, providing Republicans and late-
night comics with ammunition, and worrying the presidents Democratic allies.
The site gradually improved, but a wave of cancellation notices from insurers undercut
Obamas oft-repeated promise that people who liked their existing coverage could keep
it.
BOSTON MARATHON BOMBING: In seconds, a scene of celebration transformed into
one of carnage, as two bombs exploded near the finish line of the Boston Marathon in
April.
Three people were killed and more than 260 injured, including at least 16 who lost limbs.
Authorities soon identified two suspects 26-year-old Tamerlan Tsarnaev, who died in a
shootout with police, and his brother, Dzhokhar, 20, who faces multiple charges,
including 17 that carry a possible death penalty.
Though jolted by the bombings and a subsequent lockdown, the city rallied under the
slogan Boston Strong.
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VATICAN CHANGEOVER: Pope Benedict XVI stunned Catholics around the world
with his announcement in February that he would resign.
The Argentine cardinal elected to succeed him, soon known as Pope Francis, proceeded
to captivate many Catholics and non-Catholics alike with a new tone of openness,
modesty and tolerance.
Without challenging core church doctrine, he suggested it was time to rethink policy on
divorce, focus more on serving the poor, and devote less rhetoric to condemnations of
gay marriage and abortion.
DIVIDED CONGRESS: Opinion polls showed Congress with historically low approval
ratings, and the key reason was seemingly intractable partisan conflict.
Among the consequences were the harsh automatic spending curbs known as
sequestration, the partial shutdown of the government in October, and bitterness in the
Senate after Democrats used their majority to reduce the Republicans ability to stall
presidential nominations via filibusters.
NSA SPYING: The ripple effect continues, seven months after the world learned of
Edward Snowden.
The former NSA analyst leaked vast troves of secret documents detailing NSA
surveillance operations, including programs that collected Americans phone records and
eavesdropped on allied leaders.
After a stay in Hong Kong, Snowden spent a month in Moscows airport before obtaining
asylum in Russia.
The leaks have roiled diplomacy, triggered lawsuits and calls for reform, and prompted
warnings that terrorists could benefit from the disclosures.
GAY MARRIAGE: Capping decades of activism, the gay-rights movement won a
monumental victory in June in the form of two Supreme Court decisions.
One cleared the way for ending a ban on same-sex marriages in California, the most
populous state.
The other struck down a 1996 law passed by Congress that banned federal recognition of
same-sex marriages. In subsequent months, Hawaii, Illinois and New Mexico boosted the
number of states allowing gay marriage to at least 17.
NELSON MANDELA: A freedom fighter, a political prisoner, a statesman revered for
preaching reconciliation in a nation torn by racial strife.
Nelson Mandela was all that and more the icon of the anti-apartheid movement and
South Africas first black president.
With his death at the age of 95, his compatriots, world leaders and countless other
admirers mourned the loss of a one-of-a-kind hero.
PHILIPPINES TYPHOON: There were dire warnings beforehand, but the toll wreaked
by by super-typhoon Haiyan (locally named Yolanda) was still stunning in its scope
after it struck on Nov. 8.
More than 6,000 people died; hundreds more remain missing. The typhoon damaged or
destroyed the homes of more than 16 million people, with rebuilding expected to take
years.
SYRIA: The death toll mounted inexorably, past 120,000, as Syrias nearly 3-year-old
civil war raged on with no signs of resolution.
The government of Bashar Assad did agree to eliminate its chemical weapons, but
prospects for peace talks were complicated by infighting among anti-government rebels.
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Nearly 9 million Syrians have been uprooted from their homes, with many of them
seeking refuge abroad.
MISSING WOMEN FOUND: The call for help came on May 6, and the revelations that
followed were gripping and grim.
A former bus driver, Ariel Castro, had abducted three women from the streets of
Cleveland from 2002 to 2004 when they were 14, 16 and 20.
He periodically kept them chained, restricted access to food and toilets, and repeatedly
raped and assaulted them until their escape. Castro pleaded guilty to multiple charges,
and in September, faced with life in prison, hanged himself in his cell.
Sao among 2013 10 People Who Mattered in science (By Ron B. Lopez, Manila
Bulletin)
Manila, Philippines, December 24, 2013 - Climate Change Commissioner Naderev
Yeb Sao represented the millions of Filipinos affected by super typhoon Yolanda
(internatioanal name Haiyan) when he spoke at the United Nations climate talks in
November, and it is still to them that he dedicates the honor of being named one of the
Ten People Who Mattered in 2013.
Sao, who drew a standing ovation over his solidarity plea at the UN climate talks at
Warsaw, is chosen as one of 10 people who mattered worldwide in 2013 by Nature
Journal, an international science journal, joining the list of people who excelled and made
breakthrough discoveries in the field of science.
The Climate Conscience
Nature journal described Sao as the Climate Conscience for focusing the worlds
attention to global warming following the destructive typhoon Yolanda that killed more
than 6,000 people in Eastern Visayas.
On November 20, Sao started his fasting during the 14-day climate talks until a
meaning outcome. His sacrifice has resulted in the last-minute deal of delegates from
international community to keep negotiations on track for the next major climate summit
in 2015.
Sao, a climate change advocate since 1997 and served as part of the NGO delegation to
the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, also dedicated the
acknowledgement he got to all the people around the world confronting inequity,
injustice, and the risks of a planetary system gone awry, he told Manila Bulletin Online.
His said he was deeply moved that his message at the UN talks has been recognized by
several organizations worldwide.
I am absolutely stunned. To have been lined up with these amazing people who are
trailblazing in their quest to make peoples lives better is a huge honor, he said.
But this only serves as the beginning for Sao.
The University of the Philippines-Diliman graduate said they are launching a program
which is similar to the fasting he and other concerned groups in the climate talks did: the
#FastForTheClimate campaign.
Sao joined the Lutheran World Federation (LWF), together with other global
organizations, in a monthly Day of Fasting for the Climate beginning 1 January. They
urge prayer and spiritual reflection to express solidarity with those who are most
vulnerable to climate change.
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[We are] calling on people to join us in fasting every 1st day of each month
until December 1st 2014 when the next UN Climate Change Conference takes place in
Lima, Peru, he said.
In the Philippines, Sao and his group will visit communities nationwide to highlight the
things needed to be done to build resilience against climate change.
I also dedicate it to my children and future generations from whom we are merely
borrowing this Earth.
Sao noted that even his name will be forgotten, whats more important is that the
message has been delivered to the world so solidarity and the global awakening live on.
The most important thing is to be a living example of what we advocate for. I will
continue to take public transport regularly to build awareness on the need to improve the
public transport systems, he said.
Sao is chosen together with Feng Zhang of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in
Cambridge who has been tagged as the DNAs master editor, and Tania Simoncelli, a
US science-policy expert who fought to keep genes open to all which earned her the title
the gene patent foe.
The science journals list also includes Deborah Persaud, a virologist which proved that
infants born with HIV can be cured, Michel Mayor who belongs to a group who have
found hundreds of exoplanets during the past two decades, Viktor Grokhovsky or the
meteorite hunter, and virologist Hualan Chen who helped China to combat an outbreak
of H7N9 avian flu in humans.
Also in the list are Shoukhrat Mitalipov, or the cloning chief, who developed a line of
stem cells from a cloned human embryo; Kathryn Clancy, an anthropologist who
unearthed disturbing trends in sexual assaults at field sites; and Henry Snaith or the Sun
worshipper who boosted the efficiency of solar cells this year.
Nature journal is one of worlds most highly cited interdisciplinary science journals,
according to the 2012 Journal Citation Reports Science Edition. It is a weekly
international journal which started to publish finest peer-reviewed researches in all fields
of science since 1869.
The Visayas in 2013: Growth and daunting crises (First of Three Parts)
Manila, Philippines, December 24, 2013 - YEAREND REPORT
For the entire Visayas islands save for Eastern Visayas 2013 started and was
sustained by robust growth all through most of the year only to end in calamities so
horrendously devastating that this particular instance in Philippine modern history will be
etched indelibly in the memories of Filipinos and the whole world for a long period of
time.
Altogether, the Visayas regions, Western Visayas, Central Visayas and to a lesser degree,
Eastern Visayas, were estimated to contribute as much as 12 percent to the overall growth
of what has largely been regarded by the outside world as, Asias new economic strong
man, of late.
Sans catastrophic crises, the Philippines full-year growth through 2013 was projected to
hover between 7.3 to 7.5 percent from a clearly indicated 6.8 percent growth at yearend
2012.
A diversified economy fueled by, among other drivers, a booming property development
sector, vibrant tourism, and a healthy banking and burgeoning business process
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outsourcing (BPO) industry, all contributed to Western Visayas positive 8.2 percent
economic growth. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas deputy director Fernando Silvoza pointed
out during an October 11 visit to the regional capital, Iloilo City, was higher than the
national average of 6.8 percent.
Meanwhile, Central Visayas, strategically located between major island groups,
Mindanao and Luzon, has always been an economic leader among the countrys regions,
growing by 9.3 percent last year, 6.8 percent in 2011 and 12.9 percent in 2010. Given its
strong momentum in the last three years, Efren Carreon, assistant director for the
National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) in Central Visayas (Neda-7)
said, in early December, that despite the devastating natural calamities that affected parts
of the region, particularly the regional capital, Cebu, in the fourth quarter, we are
targeting 7.5 to 10 percent growth of gross regional domestic product (GRDP) for 2013.
He said whatever critical events may have occurred in the region in 2013, many of the
industries, including manufacturing, have already produced goods to sell for the entire
year. Some activities, tourism for instance, and particularly agriculture would most
likely be affected by the disastrous events that befell the region in October and
November, but construction will remain positive as both government and the private
sector make efforts to undertake rehabilitation and reconstruction work in areas affected
by the calamities.
Even Eastern Visayas, the perennial laggard in terms of growth and development among
the three Visayas regions, showed promise. For instance, in September, Department of
Science and Technology provincial director in Leyte John Glen Ocana said there were
certain indicators that point to an improvement in certain infrastructure, such as the
development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) parks and the setting
up of telecommunications in rural areas.
Leyte province, and its capital city Tacloban, were in fact regarded by the BPO sector in
the country as so-called next wave areas, which mean they are eyed as potential hubs
among locators in the BPO industry.
By the third quarter of 2013, the BPO sector in Eastern Visayas was employing some
4,000 workers, whose total contribution to the regional economy is estimated at about
P100 million annually.
Political Events
The year 2013 also saw the holding of two consequential political events the senatorial
election of May 13, and the barangay elections on October 28. The first was held, using
automated machines, and the latter, via the conventional, manual method. But no matter
the disparity by which both electoral exercises were held, the fact that the incidents of
violence and disorder did not reach alarming levels and the conduct of both electoral
exercises was generally peaceful. That was an accomplishment by both the electorate and
the authorities who maintained order worth commending.
At the macro level, it was pretty apparent that the country was well on its way to realizing
its 2013 growth target projections.
Calamities
There were a few incidents that marred an otherwise promising year, including the
sinking of 2GO passenger ship M/V Thomas Aquinas after a collision with cargo ship
MV Sulpicio Express Siete owned by Philippine Span Asia Carrier Corporation at Cebu
Strait off the coast of Talisay City, which resulted in 61 deaths, 59 missing and 750
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rescued passengers. However such and other incidents were all eclipsed by the two major
natural calamities that struck the Visayas in quick succession, first in mid-October, and
then barely two weeks later, in November.
7.2 Earthquake
The first of the two calamities was a 7.2-magnitude earthquake described by Philippine
Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) director Renato Solidum as having
the energy equivalent of 32 Hiroshima atomic bombs which disembowelled Central
Visayas.
The earthquake on Oct. 15, the deadliest in about a quarter of a century to happen in
the country shook up the entire Visayas, particularly hitting hard Bohol and Cebu
provinces, and was felt beyond, as far as Masbate and even portions of southern
Mindanao.
Total damage suffered by Bohol province which was the most affected by the earthquake,
and Cebu, is estimated at over P2 billion. Beyond estimation is the heartbreaking damage
on some of the countrys and Bohols most precious national cultural heritage
treasures the centuries-old Roman Catholic churches in Loon, Loboc, Maribojoc,
Baclayon, Dais, Loay and Dimiao. The earthquake also caused landslides on the famed
natural wonders, the Chocolate Hills in Carmen and the leaning bell tower which serves
as the Hills viewing deck.
In Cebu City, the quake destroyed the belfry of the Basilica Minore del Santo Nio which
was constructed in the 16th century.
In all, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) says
over 3,000,000 persons or 671,000 families were affected by the massive tremor. Nearly
350,000 people or 72,000 families were displaced and the casualty count included over
200 people dead, eight missing and nearly 90,000 persons injured.
People in the province, most especially the children, have to be given trauma therapy
because to date, after shocks continue to cause anxiety among the populace. Phivolcs has
recorded over 4,000 aftershocks.
Strongest Cyclone On Record
A little over two weeks after the earthquake struck, aid and rehabilitation efforts for
victims of and areas hard hit by the earthquake had to be disrupted when what would be
described by such weather experts like real time weather information online service,
wunderground.coms Dr. Jeff Masters as the strongest tropical cyclone on record to
make landfall in world history, packing extreme wind speeds of 315 km/h (195 mph), hit
the country, initially ramming the coastal town of Guiuan, at the southernmost tip of
Samar Island facing the Pacific.
Leyte province and Eastern Visayas capital Tacloban City, some 96 miles away from
Guiuan, was next to be hit by super typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan).
Seawater, rising to as much as over 20 feet, roared through the city, severely damaging
the airport, and drowning thousands of people who local authorities failed to convince to
leave their homes in lowland areas, and not sparing even those who did, many of those
being evacuees at the 5,000-capacity Tacloban City Convention Center, locally referred
to as the Astrodome. Like many major edifices in Tacloban, including Mayor Alfred S.
Romualdezs own mansion, the Astrodome is built near the sea.
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DOLE A year of building legacy (by Samuel Medenilla, Manila Bulletin)
Manila, December 25, 2013 - It was a good year to build a legacy.
This was how Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz described the
performance of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) wih less than three
years remaining in President Aquinos term.
Baldoz said 2013 saw DOLE finally laying the groundwork for much-needed
international labor reforms, which will outlast the current administration.
It was a year of the institutionalization of the reforms we started in 2010 So it was a
good year of work, when you will see these reforms last beyond the administration,
Baldoz said.
Among these were the countrys landmark ratification of two international labor
conventions the Decent Work for Domestic Workers Convention and the Maritime
Labor Convention 2006, which will protect household service workers (HSW) and
seafarers, respectively.
DOLE was also able to secure a bilateral agreement with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
(KSA), to protect the thousands of overseas Filipino workers (OFW), particularly HSWs,
who are staying there.
It was also able to sign other bilateral agreements with Germany, Canada and Papua New
Guinea to provide additional overseas jobs for more Filipinos.
Institutionalize Policies
Baldoz said DOLE pushed for the passage of laws, which will institutionalize DOLEs
innovative policies.
These include the Single Entry Approach (SENA), which she attributed to the sharp
decline of work stoppage in the country and the Kasambahay Law, which provides legal
and social protection for local HSWs.
Overseas Displacement
But aside from this landmark reforms, Baldoz said the year was also defined by disasters,
both natural and man-made.
As with the previous three years, when the so-called Arab spring in the Arabian
Peninsula and other nearby countries began, DOLE also assisted in the repatriation of
thousands of OFWS through the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration
(POEA) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
Last August, POEA issued a total deployment ban to Egypt after it declared a month-long
State of Emergency amid its worsening political tension. It was lifted this month after its
turmoil subsided.
POEA also re-imposed its deployment ban in Yemen this month due its escalating
domestic violence.
It, however, lifted the deployment ban in Iraq after tension in that country began to
subside last April except in four no-go zones, which are still deemed unsafe for OFWs.
A voluntary moratorium in the deployment of HSWs was also declared by some local
recruitment agencies for Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore to force their counterpart
agencies in the Asian countries to comply with POEAs mandatory $400 minimum wage
for HSWs.
DOLE said it supported these initiatives. These were all lifted later in the year as
countries began complying with POEA-set minimum wage.
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Saudization
This year also signaled the beginning of KSAs crackdown on millions of illegal migrant
workers as it attempted to raise the participation of Saudi nationals through the
Saudization program in local establishments.
The program affected at least 200,000 undocumented OFWs staying in KSA who rushed
to legalize their status or seek repatriation within the seven-month amnesty period
givenby the Saudi government which ended in November.
The record showed that 104,364 of the OFWs changed professions, while 53,330
transferred to new employers to comply with KSA standards for foreign workers.
The remaining 38,939 OFW opted to be repatriated so they could either seek
redeployment to other countries or permanently stay in the Philippines and start their own
business through POEA and OWWA, respectively.
Major Calamities
The country was also prepared to end the year with some improvements in the labor
market in the last quarter when it was hit by major calamities.
Last September, thousands of workers were turned to refugees after a faction of the Moro
National Liberation Front (MNLF) raided and razed part of Zamboanga City, which
lasted for almost a month.
Many employees from Bohol also grappled with lost jobs and livelihood after a
magnitude-7.2 earthquake struck it on October 15.
In its recent survey for the month of October, the National Statistics Office (NSO) noted
the countrys labor market was able to shrug off the two incidents, when it posted a
slightly lower unemployment rate from 6.8 percent in same period last year to 6.5
percent.
Underemployment or the rate of workers seeking better work opportunities also declined
to 17.9 percent, while employment rate also slightly rose to 93.5 percent.
2013 a smashing year for PH beauties (by Robert R. Requintina, Manila Bulletin)
Manila, Philippines, December 25, 2013 - The year 2013, just like 2012, was a
banner year for beauty pageants here and abroad highlighted by the three
major titles won by the Philippines and the successful return of Venezuela in three
other beauty contests.
For the first time, the Philippines finally clinched the elusive Miss World crown
when movie and television actress-television host Megan Lynne Young, 23, of
Olongapo City, won in Bali, Indonesia, on Sept. 28, 2013. It was a historic win for
the Philippines in the 63-year-old beauty contest, although the country only
started to send representatives to the worlds longest running pageant in 1966.
Prior to Youngs victory, the highest ranking the country had achieved in the Miss
World pageant was first-runner up won by (now Sister) Evangeline Pascual in
1973 and Gwendoline Ruais in 2011.
This year, the Philippines also notched another international crown after Mutya
Johanna Datul, 21, was crowned Miss Supranational in Belarus on Sept. 6, 2013.
Although the international pageant is relatively new only five years old and
hardly heard in the Philippines the contest is fast gaining a reputation as one of
the most popular beauty events in Europe. With Datuls triumph, she holds the
record as the countrys and Asias first Miss Supranational winner.
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Smashing Record
Datuls victory also contributed to another smashing record for the country in
beauty contests: the Philippines now hold the record as the country that has won
in all major beauty pageants (Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss International, Miss
Earth, and Miss Supranational).
Bea Rose Santiago, 23, of Masbate, capped the successful run of Filipino
beauties in 2013 by winning the Miss International beauty contest in Tokyo,
Japan, last December 17. She bested 66 candidates from around the world.
Controversy
The Miss International beauty pageant was, however, rocked by controversy for
the first time when 2012 titleholder Ikumi Yoshinatsu of Japan was dethroned for
her alleged involvement in a scandal with a media executive.
During the 2013 coronation night, Ikumi was barred from attending. Instead,
Santiago was crowned by 2008 Miss International Alejandra Andreu of Spain at
the end of the competition. Santiago dedicated her victory to the victims of
super-typhoon Yolanda which ravaged the Visayas last November, killing more
than 6,000 people.
Santiagos win was the fifth Miss International crown won by the Philippines. Past
four winners were Gemma Cruz (1964), Aurora Pijuan (1970), Melanie Marquez
(1979), and Precious Lara Quigaman (2005).
Impressing Judges
During the question and answer portion, Santiago was asked: What will you do if
you win the crown?
She impressed the judges with her answer: The whole world saw how my
country hurt. One by one, other countries helped. You have opened my heart
and eyes on what we can do to help each other. I will work to hold the spirit of
sympathy and spirit of hope. As long as we work together, there is hope.
Other Shining Beauties
Three other Philippine candidates also made good in beauty contests when they
placed third runner-up in international competitions.
Ariella Arida, of Alaminos, Laguna, won third runner-up in the 2013 Miss Universe
beauty contest held in Moscow, Russia, for the first time last Nov. 9. This was the
fourth year in a row that the Philippines finished in the Top 5 of the most
prestigious beauty contest. Maria Venus Raj won fourth runner up in 2010;
Shamcey Supsup, third runner-up in 2011, and Janine Tugonon, first runner-up in
2012.
Professional singer Annalie Ali Forbes, 20, also placed third runner-up in the first
edition of the 2013 Miss Grand International contest in Bangkok, Thailand last
Nov. 19.
The beauty contest, sponsored by the government of the Kingdom of Thailand,
campaigns against war. Its first winner was Janelle Chaparro, of Puerto Rico.
Koreen Medina, 18, of Quezon City, also finished third runner-up at the 2013 Miss
Intercontinental contest held in Madgeburg, Germany last Dec. 14.
Medinas achievement was the highest since 1993 when Maria Sovietskaya
Bacud placed second runner-up in the same beauty contest, which continues to
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hold the record for the most expensive crown of all beauty competitions. The
crown named Oriental Holy Water is worth US$361,446 (roughly P16,265,070).
Gil Wagas, 22, of Cebu City, placed fourth runner-up in the Mister International
contest held in Bali, Indonesia, last Nov. 21, won by Jose Paredes of Venezuela.
Paredes was crowned by 2012 Mister International first runner-up Ron Teh of
Singapore after Ali Hammoud of Lebanon could not make it to Bali because of
his participation in the Lebanese version of Dancing With The Stars.
Venezuela On Top
Venezuelans also finished on top of two other competitions when Maria Isler was
crowned 2013 Miss Universe and Alyz Henrich won the 2013 Miss Earth held in
Alabang, Muntinlupa City. The two are good friends back home.
Maria Isabelle Zaragoza Mendoza, 19, of San Beda College, was crowned Miss
Campus World in Malaysia last Dec. 6. Roland William de Dios finished second for
male category of the contest.
Other notable finished in 2013 were Angelee delos Reyes, Top 8 in the 2013 Miss
Earth pageant, and Cindy Miranda who was in the Top 10 of the Miss Tourism
Queen International in China last October.
Social Responsibility
Meanwhile, at the start of the worldwide broadcast for the 2013 Miss Universe
beauty contest, Thomas Roberts of MSNBC Live and ex-Spice Girl Melanie Brown
dedicated the beauty pageant to the Philippines and Vietnam, both affected
by super-typhoon Haiyan (named Yolanda in the Philippines).
The environment-driven Miss Earth beauty contest, during a live telecast, also
thanked the countries that aided the Philippines during the crisis. The contestants
joined the disaster relief efforts for typhoon victims.
The News that Defined 2013 Part 1 (by MB Online)
Manila, Philippines, December 26, 2013 - The year 2013 will be remembered, first
and foremost, for the devastating calamities that were visited upon the nation.
When super typhoon Yolanda ripped through the Visayan provinces on Nov. 8,
nobody could foretell the deadly effect of the 7-meter storm surges that
inundated the coastal areas. With Tacloban City all but flattened, the death rose
above 6,000 as relief workers continued to dig bodies out of the rubble, or fish
them out of the water.
This and the powerful earthquake that rocked Bohol barely a month earlier
made calamitiesboth natural and manmadethe top story of the year.
In Manila Bulletin Onlines yearend review, the other big stories of 2013 were: the
pork barrel scandal and its impact on the countrys politics; Manilas territorial
dispute with Beijing over the West Philippine Sea; the economys gains that were
dampened by rising unemployment; Nur Misuaris violent misadventure in
Zamboanga City; a shooting incident in Philippine waters that triggered a
diplomatic and economic backlash from Taiwan; the repatriation of thousands
of Filipinos from countries that had become inhospitable to foreign labor; the
mid-term elections in which the administration strengthened its grip on the
Senate; a bloody and futile bid by the Sulu sultanate to assert its ownership of
Sabah; and the repeated grounding of ships in the precious Tubbataha Reef.
Heres a snapshot of the most defining news of 2013.
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Super Typhoon and Super Quake
October 15 and November 8, 2013 would be remembered for the two calamities
that inflicted so much pain, death and destruction in the Visayas.
The earthquake that struck Central Visayas in October registered a 7.2-
magnitude intensity enough to kill 222 people in seconds. It also injured 976
people and left eight missing. It flattened a good part of Tagbilaran, Bohol and
also Cebu, toppling centuries-old churches, schools, hospitals and other
landmarks that would take years to repair. The killer earthquake affected 3.221
million people and damaged P2.257 billion of properties.
But the force of nature was not finished yet. In less than a month, it landed the
most destructive typhoon in Leyte and other nearby provinces. For just a few
hours, it obliterated Tacloban City, killed over 6,000 people, displaced millions of
Filipinos and destroyed everything in its path. It was a super typhoon the world
had never seen before and its name was Yolanda.
Fishy Pork Barrel
On July 12, a P10-billion pork barrel scam was exposed and it had the name
Janet Lim Napoles written all over it. The scandal implicated senators and
government officials and sent the whole country demanding for truth and
justice.
Since then this story has developed a cast of characters that include an army of
whistleblowers, the socialite daughter of the accused, government officials
charged with plunder, and even the President to whom Napoles personally
surrendered.
The stinky pork barrel scam is an issue that fired the nation to stage pork rallies
to demand the abolition of the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF). It
caused social media to boil over, senators to quarrel publicly, and for the
accused to turn the table to their accusers.
The pork barrel scam is a running story that will continue in 2014. Although PDAF
has been ruled unconstitutional and has been put to rest, getting to the bottom
of the pork barrel scam would take awhile.
Troubled Waters
The United Nations on April 25 announced that it has completed the arbitration
body which will tackle the case filed by the Philippines against China over its
excessive claim to the South China Sea. What followed was a verbal tussle
between officials of the two countries that didnt improve relationships and even
caused Japan, the European Union and the United States to get involved
somehow.
Ironically, it took an ugly event such as super typhoon Yolanda to somehow relax
the strained relationships between the two countries, with Chinas decision to
send aid, including its hospital ship, for the typhoon-ravaged parts of the
Philippines in November.
The arbitration case, however, remains as the fragile relationship between
Philippines and China hangs in the balance.
Economic boom?
On October 3, the country has received its third investment grade rating for the
year from credit rating firm Moodys Investor Service. Moodys has rated the
country Baa3 from the previous rating Ba1.
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In March, Fitch Ratings recognized the countrys improving economic standing,
while Standard & Poors and Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) upgraded their
assessments of the countrys economic outlook last May.
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), however,
acknowledged that impressive economic growth for five consecutive quarters is
not enough to combat the problems of unemployment and poverty, citing the
need of other factors to help trickle down the economic boom.
Zamboanga Siege
The Zamboanga siege began around 1:45 a.m. of Sept. 9 when fully-armed
members of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) from the faction of its
founding chairman Nur Misuari, came to Sitio Bugok in Barangay Sta. Catalina
but were blocked by government security forces. It was an unfortunate event
that lasted over 20 days and, when the smoke cleared, revealed the death of
over 100 rebels and the capture and surrender of some 223 and 52 MNLF men,
respectively.
However, the government also suffered casualties, including 18 soldiers and five
policemen killed in action (KIA) Nd 167 soldiers and 14 policemen wounded in
action (WIA).
Among the innocent civilians who were caught in the crossfire, nine were killed
and 57 wounded.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) also
reported that the violence affected at least 23,794 families or 118,819 people
from 14 villages in the city and one barangay in Zamboanga Sibugay.
Misuari, however, has avoided capture and reportedly has managed to leave
the country to face charges of rebellion filed against him by the government.
Backlash from Taiwan
Relationship with Taiwan went sour in May when a Taiwanese fisherman was
reportedly shot by a member of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) after they
were found to be poaching off Balintang Channel, which is part of Philippine
waters. This led to a string of events such as Taiwans economic sanction against
the Philippines that included its refusal to hire Filipino contract workers and
demands for compensation and apology to the family of the victim.
Three months later, the National Bureau of Investigation recommended the filing
of homicide charges against PCG officers in connection with the accidental
shooting of the Taiwanese fisherman. On August 9, Taiwan lifted its sanction to
the Philippines. It is also one of the many countries that come to the aid of
Yolanda victims.
OFW woes
Throughout 2013, thousands of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) made news
mostly for being in miserable situations. From repatriations to sex-for-flight
scandals, many OFWs in Egpyt, Syria, Saudi Arabia and other places around the
world have become victims of their circumstances.
On Sept. 19, however, came one good newsOFW Rodelio Dondon Lanuza
returned to his family after 13 years in Saudi prison. Lanuza has been saved from
death row in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia after killing an Arab national. The
Saudi Arabian court sentenced him to death but pardoned him after his family
was able to pay the 3 million Saudi riyal blood money. The Philippine government
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was able to raise 700,000 riyal. The remaining 2.3 million riyal came from Saudi
King Abdullah.
Mid-term Elections
The mid-term elections had the administration strengthening its grip on the
Senate when most of its senatorial bets were proclaimed winners. Grace Poe
Llamanzares, daughter of the late Fernando Poe, Jr., garnered the highest vote,
followed by Loren Legarda, Alan Peter Cayetano and Francis Escudero.
Quest for Sabah
When some 200 armed followers of Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III occupied a town
in Lahad Datu in Malaysia on February 11 to reassert their territorial claim on
Sabah, it caught both the governments of Malaysia and the Philippines by
surprise.
The standoff had triggered a standoff and saw eight members of the Royal
Forces captured and charged with terrorism in Malaysia, facing death or life
imprisonment over the intrusion.
On October 20, the Sultan died in Quezon City due to multiple organ failure
caused by diabetes, but the ownership claim of the sultanate over the Sabah
continues.
Tubbataha grounding
On January 17, the US Navy minesweeper, the USS Guardian, ran aground in the
Sulu Sea and got stuck on Tubbataha Reef.
Known as one of the worlds best dive sites, the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is
a 97,030-hectare World Heritage Site consisting of two coral atolls that harbor a
wide range of marine species including large marine life such as manta rays,
sharks, and turtles.
It took months to dislodge the USS Guardian from Tubbataha and not after
causing huge damage to the priceless natural resource. The United States has
since then made compensation for damage to the reef caused by their ship.
But barely weeks after the USS guardians wreckage was removed from the reef,
a Chinese fishing vessel also ran aground at the Tubataha Reef on April 8,
causing more damage to the marine protected area in Palawan.
The Philippine Coast Guard said that the fishing vessel F/V Min Long Yu had 12
crew members, allegedly Chinese poachers found to have crates of dead,
protected wildlife anteaters.
While it was smaller than the USS Guardian, the Chinese fishing vessel had
caused worse damage to the heritage site than the US Guardian as the
boatmen tried to forcibly dislodge their vessel.
The Tubbataha Management Office said that based on the result of the study of
scientists that analyzed the damage caused by the Chinese vessel, it has
severely damaged 3,902 square meters of corals-including some massive corals
500 years old. The damage is 66 percent larger than the damage caused by the
USS Guardian.
The USS Guardian measured 224 feet by 39 feet, while the Chinese fishing vessel
measured 48 meters long and eight meters wide.
Other stories
Before 2013 comes to a close, other big stories developed and one of them is
the impending P4.15 per kWh power rate hike of the Manila Electric Co.
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(Meralco). This, in itself, represents the continuous crucifixion of Filipino consumers
who today suffer the worlds highest rates for electricity.
Slapped with a temporary restraining order by the Supreme Court, Meralco has
to shelve its planned rate increase, but said they will defer about P9-billion of
payment to power suppliers. This, and other stories, will spill over to 2014.
The Visayas in 2013: Growth and daunting crises (2nd Of Three Parts) (by Teodoro
Y. Montelibano, Manila Bulletin)
Manila, Philippines, December 25, 2013 - YEAREND REPORT
Guiuans Fear
Meanwhile, compared to Tacloban, the coastal town of Guiuan, with a
population of some 45,000, and first to be beaten up by Yolanda, did not suffer
as much casualties. Guiuans mayor, Christopher Gonzalezs assiduous
determination in getting town residents to move up to higher ground paid off.
Referring to the storm as delubyo, or deluge, he managed to provoke fear
amongst the majority of townspeople, who left their homes for safe, higher
grounds. As a result, only 87 of Guiuans population perished, 23 remain missing
and some 930 injured.
Yolanda stormed through the Visayas region, hitting landfall on other areas,
including the northern parts of Cebu, Panay, and Negros Occidental provinces,
before making its exit the following day, Nov. 9, toward the direction of Vietnam.
Within three days of the monstrous typhoons occurrence, various provinces
beyond Leyte and Samar in the Visayas Cebu, Aklan, Capiz and Iloilo, as well
as Palawan in the Mimaropa region were declared under a state of national
calamity. (With inputs from Mars W. Mosqueda, Malou Mozo, and Phoebe Jen
Indino)
The World Helps
Immediate response, both locally, and from the international community, was
immediate and overwhelming. To date, some 57 countries in the world have
pledged close to P24 billion ($539 million) with about P593 million ($12.337 million)
in cash already received by government.
The governments of many countries, including the United States of America, the
United Kingdom, Canada, South Africa, Russia, Israel, Japan, Indonesia,
Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and even the Peoples Republic of China,
with which the country is at loggerheads over territorial disputes, sent cash as
well as relief goods and equipment by the tons, along with actual humanitarian
missions.
The Norwegian Shipowners Associations Norwegian Training Center-Manila, for
instance, mobilized over a hundred cadets and volunteers, to load for a full day
tons of relief goods targeted for areas in Eastern Visayas not yet reached by aid,
on board a training vessel. The vessel set sail from Manilas South Harbor under
heavy rains for Tacloban port, the first civilian ship to undertake relief efforts for
Yolanda victims in Eastern Visayas.
Oil Spill
Japan Coast Guard personnel, employing modern techniques and equipment,
also proved instrumental in speeding up work on an oil spill incident at Barangay
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Botongon, Estancia, one of several towns badly hit when Yolanda ravaged
northern Iloilo.
The incident involves the spilling of some 900,000 liters of bunker fuel from a
power barge supplying power to the Visayas grid that was dislocated from its
mooring site by typhoon-caused huge waves and ferocious winds and was
swept aground the barangays coastline.
Operated by the National Power Corporation for the Power Assets and Liabilities
Management (PSALM), 32-megawatt Power Barge 103s storage tanks were
believed to have been punctured when it rammed the coastline, causing
bunker fuel stored in the tanks to spill into the water.
Some 2,000 people had to be evacuated from the barangay to an evacuation
center at the Northern Iloilo Polytechnic State College-West Campus at Estancia
town proper when tests indicated that benzene level from fumes from the spilled
oil reached 16.9 ppm or 30 times the allowable level. PSALM hired contractor,
Kuan Yu Global Technologies to clean up the oil spill, but to a large extent, it was
modern technical help provided by the Japan Coast Guard that effectively
helped to speed up the work.
More current test results show the reduction of toxicity levels to zero parts per
million (ppm), which is lower than the tolerable level of 0.5 ppm, and very
recently, the Department of Health in Iloilo has recommended that resident-
evacuees could return home.
Meanwhile, a 20-meter radius from the spill site remains off limits and continued
air quality monitoring continues. Transfer of the remaining bunker fuel inside the
power barge has been completed and the contaminated water and debris
transferred to a treatment facility in Luzon. Refloating and towing of the barge
off Estancia has also been set by the contractor for Jan. 9, 2014.
Achievements, experiments mark bumpy year in transport (By Kris Bayos, Manila
Bulletin)
Manila, Philippines, December 26, 2013 Airplanes overshooting the runway,
buses flying off the expressway or ramming other vehicles, ships sinking, and
trains breaking down have made public transportation a frequent item in the
headlines this year. But 2013 has also been a year of achievements, of successful
experiments and of new feats in the transportation sector.
Probably the most noteworthy accomplishment of the Philippines in the field of
transportation this year is recovering from an infamous reputation in the global
aviation industry. This was after being delisted from the International Civil Aviation
Organizations tally of member-states with unresolved significant safety concerns
(SSCs) last March.
AVIATION SAFETY
In an electronic bulletin dated March 7, 2013 sent to the Department of
Transportation and Communications (DoTC), the ICAO Council formally stated
that the [Philippine] State has implemented corrective actions in accordance
with the mechanism approved by the Council to resolve two SSCs the issuance
of air operator certificates and the aircraft registration process. Following its
audit findings, the ICAO Coordinated Validation Missions team recommended to
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the ICAO Headquarters in Montreal, Canada the lifting of the SSCs it previously
raised with respect to the Philippines.
Shortly thereafter, the European Unions Air Safety Committee started lifted its
ban against Philippine carriers from serving European destinations, starting with
Philippine Airlines (PAL) last July 12. Ambassador Guy Ledoux, head of the
delegation of the European Union (EU), lauded the efforts of Civil Aviation
Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) officials for taking sufficient corrective actions
to address the EU Air Safety Committees requirements and that of the ICAO.
The ICAO delisting and EU ban lifting has not only invigorated tourism but also the
contributed to the growth of the economy as the Philippines have become more
accessible to incoming tourists and returning Filipino travelers and workers in
Europe.
After these achievements, the Philippine government is expecting the United
States Federal Aviation Authority to upgrade the countrys status from Category
2 to 1. The US FAA had earlier identified major safety, management and
regulation shortcomings in Philippine aviation and consequently downgraded
the countrys rating to Category 2 from Category 1.
Once upgraded, Philippine carriers would be able to deploy trips to more
destinations in the US and switch to newer and fuel-efficient aircrafts to serve the
flights.
SAVING MARINERS
Similarly, Philippine maritime transportation stakeholders are awaiting the result of
the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) audit last October pertaining to
the Philippines Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for
seafarers compliance. The audit was in line with the Philippines commitment to
the 1978 International Convention on STCW.
EMSA had threatened to ban Filipino seafarers from EU-flagged ships after the
Philippines failed to act on the recommendations of a previous STCW audit in
2006. The ban could put at least 100,000 Filipino seafarers out of work and leave
European ships with serious crew shortage.
Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) Administrator Dr. Maximo Q. Mejia admitted
that if we fail the audit, it could result in the major disruption of an important
symbiotic relationship, he said, adding that Filipinos stand to lose jobs, while
European ships come to a standstill for lack of seafarers to operate them.
But Mejia said Marina is making sure that the Philippines will pass the EMSA audit,
stressing that the international shipping communitythe maritime world has
increasingly put its faith in the Filipino to carry global commerce from far end of
the earth to the other, so much so, that today close to 30 percent of all seafarers
in the international trade are Filipino.
TRANSPORT EXPERIMENTS
Meanwhile in land transportation, the government has test-ran a proposal to limit
public utility buses entering Metro Manila by setting up a centralized terminal for
provincial buses in Paranaque. Originally part of the three terminals envisioned
for the Integrated Transport System (ITS), the Southwest Interim Transport Terminal,
which started operating last August 6 at the corner of MIAA and Coastal Roads,
has contributed to the reduction of vehicular traffic volume in the city.
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Commuters have also started to adapt with the new system just before
government implements the ITS project, with centralized provincial bus terminals
rising at the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) property along Coastal Road,
the Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) in Taguig City and at a soon-to-be-identified location
in Quezon City.
Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya said the DOTC is scheduled to start the bidding
process for the construction of the ITS terminals in Taguig and Paranaque City
early next year.
Once the ITS is implemented, all provincial bus terminals will be relocated to the
central hub and will greatly reduce the number of vehicles entering Metro
Manila. Full implementation of the ITS is reportedly Malacanangs requirement for
the planned rehabilitation of Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA).
RAIL IMPROVEMENTS
Also a prerequisite to the EDSA rehabilitation, the government is close to
awarding the P3.8-billion MRT 3 Capacity Expansion Project to supply 48 new
train cars to the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) 3. According to DOTC Secretary Joseph
Emilio Abaya, the Bids and Awards Committee has found the Chinese supplier
Dalian Locomotive & Rolling Stock Co. CNR Group as fit to do the project for
having adequate, if not impressive, manufacturing facilities. He said post-
qualification of the bid is ongoing and that awarding is expected early next
year. Ideally, delivery of the prototype can be expected by the first quarter of
2015 and the delivery of the rest of the LRVs by the third quarter of 2016.
And speaking of bidding, the DOTC was able to generate negative bids for two
of its public-private partnership (PPP) projects: the P17.5 billion Mactan-Cebu
International Airport Development Project and the P1.72 billion Automated Fare
Collection System (AFCS) for the Light and Metro Rail Transits (LRT-MRT). By
offering negative bids, the proponents are offering to implement the projects
and even willing to pay government to win the contract. According to DOTC
BAC chairman and Undersecretary Jose PerpetuoLotilla, government did not
only get the best deal, it also saved taxpayers money through meticulously
packaged projects.
TRANSPORT APPS
Another innovative achievement in the transportation industry this year is the
launching of the first Philippine Transit App Challenge last July. At least 17 apps
competed for the best transit application, which was aimed to enable multi-
modal trip planning by providing commuters and tourists with information on the
available means of multi-modal transportation means and location of key
transfers. The winning app, Trip Barker, bested other entries for being a
community-based trip planner which can be used to report and share weather,
traffic, and events in real-time with other users.
Public transportation in the Philippines may be far from being world-class but
government is surely doing its part in making it at par with the rest of the world.
Various transportation infrastructure projects are in the pipeline and more are
coming up, including an ambitious plan to revive the Philippine National
Railways operation from Cagayan, Isabela to Sorsogon to tap government-
owned tracks for rapid transit (passenger) and cargo services in Luzon. Delays
have marred awarding of several key projects and put a doubt if the
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administrations projects will be implemented before President Benigno S. Aquino
III steps out of office on June 30, 2016 but Abaya said PPP remains a continuous
learning process for both government and the private sector.
It has been a good year but still there is a lot of room for improvement,
Abaya said.
Big year ends with Wall Street hopeful for 2014
As Wall Streets best year in more than 15 draws to a close, few are expecting a
repeat performance in 2014, though traders have plenty of reasons to feel
optimistic.
While the market will likely enter January quietly, with many traders still out for the
holidays and few major catalysts, the upward trend is seen continuing next
week, especially in some of 2013s high-flying names.
Economic growth is expected to accelerate next year, boosting employment
and consumer purchasing power. But with markets repeatedly notching all-time
highs, that may not translate to market gains as dramatically as in 2013.
Theres a pervasive feeling that the economy is getting better, and the Fed is
still on the markets side after saying it would keep rates low, said Donald Selkin,
chief market strategist at National Securities in New York.
However, while new money will still be flowing into stocks next year, probably
well see less money come in. Theres little chance of another 30 percent gain or
so next year.
The S&P 500 .SPX has risen 29 percent so far in 2013, its best annual performance
since 1997. The Dow Jones industrial average .DJI is up 26 percent while the
Nasdaq is up nearly 38 percent.
The gains have been widespread, with all 10 S&P 500 sectors higher on the year.
The weakest group, telecoms .SPLRCL, rose 6.5 percent while consumer
discretionary .SPLRCD led the year with a gain of 40 percent.
One of the markets biggest boosts this year the Federal Reserves stimulus
program will not be as strong a factor after the central bank announced a
slowing of the program in December. The Fed beginning in January will buy $75
billion in Treasuries and mortgage-backed bonds per month, down from $85
billion, and Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke, whose term expires on January 31,
suggested the U.S. central bank could continue to slowly reduce that stimulus
throughout 2014.
The latest Reuters poll showed analysts expect the S&P 500 to rise to 1,925 points
by the end of 2014, which represents a rise of 4.5 percent from current levels.
Subscription video company Netflix Inc (NFLX.O) was the S&Ps strongest
performer in 2013, with a jump of almost 300 percent, followed by electronics
retailer Best Buy Co Inc (BBY.N) and semiconductor maker Micron Tech (MU.O),
both of which climbed nearly 240 percent. Tesla Motors (TSLA.O) was another
standout, soaring 346 percent, while Facebook Inc (FB.O) more than doubled.
These names could see further upside next week thanks to window dressing, a
practice in which investors buy securities with big gains to improve the
appearance of their holdings before presenting the results to clients. The 2013
year will close out on Tuesday, with the market closed on Wednesday for the
New Years Day holiday.
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Consumer discretionary and tech names have driven the market over the past
12 months, so it wouldnt surprise me to see continued upside on them next
week, said Jake Dollarhide, chief executive of Longbow Asset Management in
Tulsa, Oklahoma.
However, Dollarhide said the names were priced for perfection and vulnerable
to pullbacks next year.
There wont be a sudden lets sell Micron and Netflix movement, but if profit
growth slows or a conference call doesnt go well, absolutely you could see a 20
to 30 percent selloff after doubling this year, he said.
The fourth-quarter earnings season wont start in earnest until the second week
of January, but there will be a few clues into the economys strength coming out
next week, with data on consumer confidence and manufacturing.
Next week will also see reads on the housing market with November pending
home sales on tap for Monday and the Case/Shiller report on October home
prices on Tuesday. The housing sector has been in focus as U.S. benchmark
Treasury yields rose to two-year highs, which could put pressure on mortgage
rates, which are typically driven by the yield on the 10-year Treasury note.
If yields stay this high, I would consider that both a technical and psychological
negative for markets, said Mark Grant, managing director at Southwest
Securities in Fort Lauderdale.
Pending home sales, or sales which are in contract but not yet closed, are seen
rising 1 percent while the October home prices are expected to rise 0.8 percent.
In the latest week, the Dow rose 1.6 percent while the S&P was up 1.3 percent
and the Nasdaq rose 1.3 percent.
2013 America: the good, the bad and the funny
December 28, 2013 - Vice President Joe Biden congratulated the wrong man on
being elected mayor of Boston and college football star Manti Teo publicly
mourned the death of a girlfriend who never was.
While U.S. headlines in 2013 were dominated by the Boston Marathon bombs,
Edward Snowden leaking government secrets, and the disastrous rollout of
President Barack Obamas healthcare reform law, the news also brought plenty
to laugh about.
In the category of Politicians Behaving Badly, former Congressman Anthony
Weiners campaign to become mayor of New York City tanked when news
broke that the Democrat, who resigned from Congress in 2011 after a sexting
scandal, was at it again this time using the name Carlos Danger. The X-rated
dj vu inspired a play called The Weiner Monologues.
On the West Coast, San Diego Mayor Bob Filner made the headlines with what
came to be known as the Filner Headlock. After asking a woman for a date,
he came up behind her and wrapped one arm around her in an embrace that
was more World Wrestling Entertainment than Kama Sutra. Sexual harassment
accusations followed from nearly 20 other women, resulting in Filners resigning,
getting sued and being sentenced to home confinement.
A foot-in-mouth moment occurred on the November night Massachusetts state
Senator Marty Walsh was elected mayor of Boston. As new mayor Walsh
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prepared to greet supporters, another Marty Walsh a Boston public affairs
consultant saw an unfamiliar 202 number pop up on his cell phone.
Congratulations, Marty, you son of a gun. You did it! he heard the voice of the
U.S. vice president shout gleefully, before he realized his mistake.
In October, the federal government shutdown led to some strange stories,
including the blackout of the wildly popular online Giant Panda Cam at the
National Zoo in Washington and the furloughing of poison ivy-eating goats in
New Jersey and New York.
Months later, the fumbled launch of Healthcare.gov whipped up a search for
the Obamacare Girl, who was re-named Glitch Girl after her smiling face
remained frozen on the home page that frustrated millions of computer users.
In the sports world, former Notre Dame linebacker Manti Teo put a new twist on
the old adage that it is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved
at all. Romantics were drawn to the tale of his devotion to Lennay Kekua and her
tragic death from cancer until her very existence was exposed as a fraud. The
snarky Twittersphere was flooded with photos of people Teoing hugging
empty chairs or puckering up in an otherwise empty room.
Broken hearts were mended after a New Jersey commercial fisherman lost
$12,000 in cash he had saved to buy an engagement ring. His backpack had a
faulty zipper and the money fell out as he rode his motorcycle to the docks.
Much of the loose cash was scooped up, but after the story came out, good
Samaritans returned it to him.
Elsewhere on the Jersey Shore, Wildwood officials banned saggy pants on the
boardwalk, pressing their crusade for decency with the threat of a $200 fine for
pants that sag more than three inches below the waist. To those who invoked
their right to wear low-slung pants, Mayor Ernie Troiano Jr. said: I have a right not
to look at your rear end.
Animals acting up got their share of attention in 2013. A foul-mouthed Rhode
Island cockatoo landed its owner in trouble by cursing at a next-door neighbor,
who happened to be the girlfriend of the owners ex-husband. The City of
Warwick initially slapped the woman with a $15 fine for the birds salty language,
but eventually dropped the case.
In Colorado, a man on his way to his brothers wedding 600 miles away in Utah
was arrested for being drunk while riding his horse. He had a small dog in his
backpack.
As the year drew to a close, an African flamingo that had been on the lam for
eight years after escaping from a zoo in Wichita, Kansas, was spotted this month
cavorting with a companion in the Gulf of Mexico off the Texas coast. Flamingos
pair up for life, but the gender of these two birds was unknown, a zoo official
said.
Malacaang: 2013 a year of foresight and prudence (by Madel Sabater - Namit,
Manila Bulletin)
Manila, Philippines, December 28, 2013 - Malacanang on Saturday described 2013 as a
year of foresight and prudence for the Aquino administration which faced political
challenges and disasters in the last 12 months.
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The past year has been a remarkable year for the Filipino people: one in which the
President showed his indomitable will to lead the nation forward, and where the mandate
for change was renewed in the years midterm elections, Deputy presidential
spokesperson Abigail Valte said.
It has been a year wherein the foresight and prudence of the President and his team
holding fast to the long-term vision of a more prosperous, stable, and dynamically
competitive Philippineshas been upheld time and again, she said.
It has been a year of challenges not only for the Administration but also for the Filipino
people. Another year where our collective commitment to persevere and to stand
shoulder to shoulder enabled us to overcome the trials set before us, thus making the
world admire and respect us all the more, she added.
In the first quarter of the year, as the government was starting its rehabilitation and
reconstruction efforts in Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental that were hit by typhoon
Pablo, the Aquino administration was thrown into a sudden crisis in Sabah when
Sultan Jamalul Kiram III invaded it to reclaim its as part of their ancestral right.
The February Saban incursion was followed in May by another foreign problem: the fatal
shooting of 65-year-old Taiwanese fisherman Hung Shih-Cheng off the Balintang
Channel that sparked a rift between the Philippines and Taiwan, with Taiwan imposing
sanctions on the Philippines that adversely affected the state of overseas Filipino workers
(OFWs) in the island state.
Before the cloud over the Balintang tragedy could settle, the country was rocked by the
pork barrel or the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scandal that continues
to drag until now.
But it was the ber months that proved to be the most challenging, starting with the
September brazen siege of Zamboanga by the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF)
founding chairman Nur Misuari and his men. The Zamboanga standoff caused the
displacement of more than 120,000 individuals and the destruction of more than 10,000
homes. There were also 200 people who died and 270 members of the MNLF had been
captured by government forces while 24 of them surrendered during the standoff.
October had been a month of natural disasters as typhoon Santi ravaged Central and
Northern Luzon while Bohol and Cebu had been rocked by a 7.2 magnitude earthquake.
But the biggest one came in November as super typhoon Yolanda devastated Eastern
Visayas.
But 2013 is not without its good news. Valte cited the Philippine economys positive
performance with the country able to get an investment grade in all three major credit
rating agencies: a BAA3 (positive) from the Moodys Investors Services; and a BBB-
(stable) from both Standard & Poors and Fitch Ratings.
The countrys GDP has also remained within seven percent: at 7.8 percent in the first
quarter; 7.5 in the second quarter; and seven percent in the third quarter, she said.
Peace with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is also within reach as three of the
four annexes had been signed this year: the Transitional Arrangements and Modalities
Annex, signed on Feb. 27, 2013; the Revenue Generation and Wealth Sharing Annex,
signed on July 13; and the Power Sharing Annex, signed on December 8.
In terms of the governments efforts against corruption, this year a total of 157 cases had
been filed against smugglers; 195 cases filed against tax evaders; and plunder,
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malversation of public funds and other charges filed initially against 39 individuals and
34 more individuals in the second batch, including businesswoman Janet Lim Napoles.
Our achievements only tell us that nothing is impossible to the Filipino people, Valte
said, citing the achievements of Filipina beauty queens and Filipino athletes all year
round.
Maraming mga Pilipinong namayagpag sa ibang bansa at nagdala ng karangalan sa atin
[A lot of Filipinos took center stage in the international arena and brought honor to the
country], she said.
These include Pambansang Kamao Manny Pacquiao, and beauty queens Megan Young
(Miss World); Bea Rose Santiago (Miss International); and Mutya Johanna Datul (Miss
Supranational 2013), among others.
The Pope in Manila: Pre-papal activities
Pope Francis visit set October 23-27, 2014 and January 15-19, 2015
MANILA, Philippines, July 28, 2014 (UPDATED) - Roman Catholic Church leaders
announced on Tuesday that Pope Francis will visit the Philippines on October 23 to 27,
2014 and January 15 to 19, 2015.
In a press conference at the Arzobispado de Manila, Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal
Tagle said his holiness Pope Francis will make his apostolic visit to Sri Lanka on
October 30 to 31, 2014 and January 12 to 15, 2015 and to the Philippines on October 23
to 27, 2014 and January 15 to 19, 2015.
In a sign of joy, Tagle ended his initial statement with, Thanks be to God!
Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto, the current nuncio to the Philippines, described the visit as a
spiritual typhoon.
Tagle said the Vatican will announce the details of the visit before the end of the year, but
reiterated previous statements that Pope Francis wants to visit areas devastated by super
typhoon Yolanda.
On reports that Francis will hold a rally at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in
Manila, Tagle could only say that in past visits of popes in the Philippines, UST has
always figured as one of the sites.
Preparations are now under way for the Pope's visit, with the national government also
taking the lead.
Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said President Aquino has appointed
Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. as the lead point person in helping the papal visit
committee.
He said the government expects the Filipinos to accord [Pope Francis] the warmth of
their hospitality and manifest the fervor of their faith as they welcome the first pontiff
from South America.
The visit of Pope Francis also coincides with the 20th anniversary of World Youth Day
Philippines, which took place in Manila on January 10 to 15, 1995.
Asked what Filipinos can do to prepare for the visit, Tagle said: We could prepare best
by undergoing spiritual renewal, tasting the mercy of God, returning to God through the
sacrament of reconciliation.
He also urged Filipinos to engage in specific actions of mercy.
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He reminded Catholics of the unique style of Pope Francis, which was already obvious
on the first day of his papacy.
He wants to journey with the people where they are, he said.
Tagle noted that when Pope Francis blessed the mosaic of St. Pedro Calungsod at St.
Peters Basilica back in November, he took time to include Filipinos in his prayers.
It was not just a blessing of an icon During that event, he said plainly that he was one
with the suffering of the people and that we should not be afraid to ask God: Why? he
said.
Filipinos should not be afraid to show Pope Francis their worth, he said. We show him
who we truly are: the resilience of Filipinos, [full of] faith, compassion, and bottomless
hope.
Caceres Archbishop Emeritus Leonardo Legaspi succumbs to cancer
NAGA CITYThe archbishop emeritus of the Archdioceses of Caceres has succumbed to
lung cancer early morning Friday, August 8 at University of Santo Tomas Hospital beside
his brother and fellow Dominican priests, two months before the 36th anniversary
celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park,
Manila on October 26 to 27 as part of the five-day pastoral and state visit of Pope Francis
here in the Philippines. He was 78.
Caceres Archbishop Emeritus Leonardo Z. Legaspi, O.P., D.D., the prelate of the
Catholic Church in Camarines Sur from 1984 to 2012, died after battling for years and
losing the battle against lung cancer, according to Father Louie Occiano, director of
Caceres Archdiocesan Communications Commission.
Legaspi found he had cancer three years ago (2011-2014) before he bowed out of his
duties to the present Archbishop Rolando T. Triona, who was installed on September 8,
2012, the birthday of Mama Mary.
History of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide
n 1973, Eddie Villanueva (also known as Bro. Eddie or Bishop Eddie), then an
Economics and Finance professor in the Polytechnic University of the Philippines,
began preaching the Gospel to his students and colleagues.
On October 5, 1978, Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva invited his listeners for a Thanksgiving
Holy Mass and Worship and Healing Prayer Rally that was held at the Polytechnic
University of the Philippines Santa Mesa Campus on the Thursday nearest his birthday,
Friday, October 6. About one thousand people attended the affair and experienced the
miracle-working power of God!
Encouraged by the success of the rally, Bro. Eddie scheduled a monthly Roman Rite
Holy Mass and Worship and Healing Prayer Rally at the DWRV Compound in Quezon
City. Some time later, as more people came to be led back to the Lord Jesus Christ, the
rally was held weekly. A monthly Catholic Life-in-the-Spirit Seminar (CLSS) and a
weekly fellowship were also held at the 22
nd
Floor, Strata 2000 Building, F. Ortigas Jr.
Avenue, Ortigas Center in Pasig City.
I
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After a while, Bro. Eddie decided to air his program three times a week and began
thinking of a new title and theme song for it. At this time, a friend gave him a magazine
entitled Jesus is Lord, which quickly aroused his interest.
He made a study of the meaning of the term and discovered that it was one of the seven
Covenant Names, by which God the Father revealed Himself to Israel.
Jesus is Lord, the motto of the World Council of Churches. The most popular and briefest
was "Jesus is Lord" found in 1 Corinthians 12:3; Romans 10:9 and probably in the
baptisms referred to in Acts 8:16; 19:5 and 1 Cor 6:11 since their being described as "in
the name of the Lord Jesus" certainly seems to imply that "the formula 'Jesus is Lord' had
a place in the rite". The phrase might be extended as "Jesus Christ is Lord" as in
Philippians 2:11. Shortly, he heard the song "Jesus is Lord" over Radio DWRV 860
itself:
"Jesus is Lord" by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend
Jesus is Lord
The cry that echoes through creation
Resplendent pow'r eternal Word our Rock
The Son of God
The King whose glory fills the heavens
Yet bids us come to taste this living bread

Jesus is Lord
Whose voice sustains the stars and planets
Yet in His wisdom laid aside His crown
Jesus the man who washed our feet
Who bore our suffering
Became a curse to bring salvation's plan
Jesus is Lord
The tomb is gloriously empty
Not even death could crush this King of love
The price is paid the chains are loosed
And we're forgiven
And we can run into the arms of God
Jesus is Lord,a shout of joy a cry of anguish
As He returns and every knee bows low then every eye and every heart will see His glory
the judge of all will take His children home.
Through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the weekly fellowship came to be called the
DWRV Prayer Partners Jesus the Healer, since Radio DWRV was the broadcast medium,
he and his first listeners became prayer-partners, and Jesus is Lord was the Divine Name
revealed to him by God. Every week, God added thousands of new prayer-partners to this
community by means of the Good News aired over the radio DWRV and the Mass and
Healing Rallies held all over Metro Manila and nearby provinces. As the community
grew, they voluntarily gave their tithes and miracle-seed-of-faith offerings to support the
radio program "Jesus the Healer" and the Roman Rite Holy Mass and Worship and
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Healing Prayer Rallies. Some prayer-partners even volunteered to serve
without compensation.
Inspired by the outcome of events, Bro. Eddie thought it was time to formally organize
the community. Thus, the Jesus is Lord Fellowship, Inc. was established, which in due
time was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. It was organized,
primarily, as an institution where Bro. Eddie could channel his tithes and donations
derived from his real estate business and other companies to support the religious
activities of various Roman Catholic charismatic renewal religious groups and some
projects of charitable organizations. These however were not enough to support the
expenses of the newly-founded Roman Catholic charismatic community, especially the
radio programs of DWRV Radio Veritas and the Roman Rite Holy Mass and Worship
and Healing Prayer Rallies. And so, he had to continue shelling out funds from his own
personal earnings. For him, though, it was a great enough blessing from Jesus is Lord that
his radio listeners came to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour and was receiving
answers to their prayer-requests.
From 1986 to present, other chapters were formed in Abkhazia, Afghanistan, Akrotiri and
Dhekelia, land Islands, Anguilla, Armenia, Aruba, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain,
Bangladesh, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bonaire, British Indian Ocean
Territory, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Bulgaria, Cambodia, China, Christmas Island,
Clipperton Island, Cocos Islands, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Curaao,
Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Egypt,
Estonia, Federal Dependencies of Venezuela, Finland, French Guiana, French Polynesia,
Gabon, Gambia, Gibraltar, Greenland, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Guadeloupe,
Guam, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guernsey, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hong
Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Isle of Man, Israel, Italy, Ivory
Coast, Jamaica, Japan, Jersey, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kuwait,
Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Macau, Macedonia, Madagascar, Madeira, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Malta,
Maldives, Martinique, Marshall Islands, Mayotte, Mauritania, Mauritius, Melilla,
Federated States of Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat,
Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nagorno-Karabakh, Nauru, Navassa Island,
Nepal, Netherlands, North Korea, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger,
Nigeria, Niue, Norfolk Island, Northern Cyprus, Northern Mariana Islands, Norway,
Nueva Esparta, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Palestine, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico,
Qatar, Romania, Runion, Russia, Rwanda, Saba, Saint Barthlemy, Saint Helena,
Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin, Saint
Pierre and Miquelon, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Andrs and
Providencia, San Marino, So Tom and Prncipe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia,
Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Sint Eustatius, Sint Maarten, Slovakia, Slovenia,
Solomon Islands, Somalia, Somaliland, South Korea, South Ossetia, South Sudan, Spain,
Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Syria, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste,
Togo, Tonga, Transnistria, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu,
Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu,
Vatican City, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen, Zambia and Zimbabwe. These were formed
by Filipino and foreign prayer-partners working abroad, who were motivated by the
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desire to bear witness to the love and goodness of Jesus Christ our Lord. With the
emergence of the chapters abroad, the corporate name registered with the Securities and
Exchange Commission of Department of Finance, Republic of the Philippines was
amended to Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide, Incorporated.
Later in 1993, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) realized that
the growth of the Foundation, particularly since it was affecting Catholics, could not be
taken for granted any longer. Most Rev. Teodoro C. Bacani Jr., DD, then-Auxiliary
Bishop of Manila and Overall Spiritual Director of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal
Movement (CCRM) in the Archdiocese of Manila, invited Jesus Miracle Crusade
International Ministry spiritual director Pastor Wilde Almeda, El Shaddai DWXI Prayer
Partners Foundation International Founder and Servant-Leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde and
Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, international president and spiritual director
Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva to the CBCP Conference on January 24, 1993, to shed light on
what was going on in the Foundation. On that occasion, Bishop Bacani was beside Pastor
Wilde, Bro. Mike and Bro. Eddie, not to defend him, but to bear witness to what God was
doing through the Foundation. The result of the meeting was satisfactory because most of
the questions asked were clearly and humbly answered by Bro. Eddie.
On October 13 to 14, 1979, during its First Anniversary Celebration of Jesus is Lord
Fellowship at the DWRV Compound in Pasig City one year after the founding of Jesus is
Lord Fellowship on October 5, 1978, about five thousand people witnessed and
experienced the miracle touch of Jesus is Lord.
Some eight thousand people gathered together on the Second Anniversary Celebration of
the Jesus is Lord Fellowship at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on
October 12, 1980. Even the seemingly indifferent PICC staffs were surprised because the
affair lasted one whole day and it was the first time that its Reception and Plenary Halls
were filled to capacity.
The Third Anniversary Celebration of the Jesus is Lord Fellowship was celebrated with
an Overnight Roman Rite Holy Mass and Worship and Healing Prayer Rally at the Rizal
Memorial Football Stadium in Vito Cruz, Manila, from October 17 to 18, 1981. It rained
heavily throughout the affair, but the estimated two hundred thousand attendees stayed
until it ended in the morning.
As early as 9:00 a.m. of October 8, 1989, members and followers of the Jesus is Lord
Fellowship began trooping to the Rizal Memorial Track and Football Stadium in Vito
Cruz Street, Manila to participate in its Eleventh Anniversary. By midnight of Monday,
October 9, 1989, the entire stadium was jammed with over half a million people from all
over the Philippines to take part in an overnight activity of praise and worship dedicated
to Jesus Christ our Lord, our Savior. Bishop Teodoro C. Bacani, together with some
Roman Catholic priests from the different parishes in the Archdiocese of Manila, Lipa,
Cebu and Davao, led the Holy Mass.
From October 13 to 14, 1990, the Twelfth Anniversary of the Jesus is Lord Fellowship
was held at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila. In attendance were thousands
of its members and followers, who experienced the wonderful works of the Holy Spirit as
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they praised and worshipped to Jesus and listened to His Word despite a storm which
flooded some parts of the venue with knee-deep water.
The scenario of the Thirteenth Anniversary of the Jesus is Lord Fellowship held at
the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila, from October 12 to 13, 1991, was identical
to that of its 12th Anniversary. Nevertheless, the almost half a million attendees braved
the monsoon rains and knee-deep flood to give thanks, praise and worship to God.
On the occasion of the Fourteenth Anniversary Celebration of the Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide held at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila, from October 17 to 18,
1992, more than one-and-a-half million prayer-partners attended the affair. His
Excellency, President Fidel V. Ramos, gave his greetings to the congregation.
For the first time in the history of Rizal Park and the whole of Metro Manila for that
matter, about three million people joined the Fifteenth Anniversary Celebration of the
Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide at the national park from October 8 to 9, 1994. The
participants crowded the 61-hectare national park and adjacent areas-Roxas Boulevard,
Taft Avenue, UN Avenue, T.M. Kalaw St., Port Area, and Jones Bridge. Some of them
came to the venue as early as three days before the event. They came not only from
Metro Manila, but also from Cavite, Laguna, Pampanga, the Ilocos Region, Quezon, the
Bicol Region, Sorsogon, Leyte, and other distant provinces. Also present were members
from different overseas chapters of the Foundation.
His Excellency, President Fidel V. Ramos was the guest of honor during the Eighteenth
Anniversary of the Foundation at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila on October
13, 1996. In line with the anniversary theme, which is unity, leaders from the different
charismatic groups and religious groups were invited to speak in a CLSS. During the
Thanksgiving Mass officiated by Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin, a mass wedding
took place, in which 5000 couples who had been living together as common-law spouses
finally tied the knot.
Two days after the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 75
Mens Basketball Tournament Finals between the Ateneo de Manila University Blue
Eagles versus University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers at Smart Araneta Coliseum on
October 11, 2012, at least nine million participants participated in the 34
th
Anniversary
Celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide, with no less than the President of the
Republic of the Philippines, His Excellency Benigno S. Aquino III as guest-of-honor in
the celebration, traversing a crowd from the 61-hectare Rizal Park to Port Area to the
Quiapo church in a celebration that lasted twenty-four hours from 7:00 a.m. of Sunday,
October 14, 2012 to 8:00 a.m. of Monday, October 15, 2012.
The visit (October 1-30, 2014)
Pre-Papal Activities (October 17-23, 2014)
FABC Plenary Program

The Twelfth Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences
(FABC) will open with a Eucharistic celebration on October 21 at Manila
Cathedral with Cardinal Francis Arinze, Papal representative to the assembly, as
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presider. This will be followed by the official opening of the meeting at Pius XII
Center, along United Nations Avenue. The afternoon of the first day and the
morning of Wednesday, October 22, will be devoted to the discussion of a
working paper on the conference theme "Living the Eucharist with Christ in
Asia." Wednesday afternoon will be a discussion on the Statutes of the
Federation, while Thursday, October 23, will see groupings of the participants
according to regions; including a conference on "The Word of God and the
Eucharist" by Archbishop Thomas Menamparampil of Guwahati, India.

For Friday, October 24, the workshop reports of the regional groupings will be
presented as well as activity reports from the nine FABC offices, which carry out
the basic activities of the Federation.

The morning of Saturday, October 25, will be open for interventions of individual
bishops' conferences while the late afternoon and evening of this day will
distribute the participants to some 12 parishes in Metro Manila for a pastoral
exposure and dinner with local communities.

The Plenary will end on Monday morning, October 27, with the final document of
the meeting and the concluding Eucharist at the conference venue, Pius XII
Center, Manila. All in all, some 120 delegates and participants are expected,
representing the 18 member-bishops' conferences of the Federation and 11
associate members. The general theme of the assembly is "Living the Eucharist in
Asia." This will be the thirdtime that such a plenary takes place in Manila, after
the foundation of the Federation in Manila in 1970, the 6th Plenary Assembly in
1995 and the 9
th
Plenary Assembly in 2009.

Pope Francis' First Visit to the Philippines (October 23-27, 2014)
The Pope visited the Philippines on October 23 to 27, 2014 in time for the annual
anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide. Some 3 million people lined
the streets to welcome Pope Francis, who arrived on October 23, 2014, three days after
the Beatification of Pope Paul VI on October 19, 2014 at the Vatican.

The five-day visit was the Popes first overseas trip after he led the canonization rites in
the third week of October of the same year.
Tagle can't stop me; he's not God-Noy (By Juliet L. Javellana and Stella O.
Gonzales)
Manila, Philippines, October 19, 2014 (I NQUI RER) CARDINAL Tagle is not God
and no matter what accusations he makes against me, he cannot stop me.
An angry President Benigno Aquino III yesterday struck back at Manila Archbishop Luis
Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle for calling his administration disgusting, and used up almost
all of his two-hour radio program to attack the leader of the country's more than 50
million Roman Catholics.
Mr. Aquino said he was willing to resign right now! if Tagle could prove he was guilty
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of corruption.
The President made his anti-Sin offensive as his ally, El Shaddai founder and servant-
leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde, brushed off concerns that he would be disobeying Sin by
holding a separate gathering of his flock on the same day the rallyists would lead an anti-
Charter change rally.
Velarde said that in the October 26-27 El Shaddai gathering, prayer requests would be
made, including the resolution of the Marcos wealth issue in a referendum and
the successful of several events.
Speaking on his weekly radio show yesterday, Mr. Aquino criticized Tagle, saying we
still respect him but there is no truth to these accusations.
He was reacting to Sin's statement calling on the public to oppose Mr. Aquino's moves to
amend the Constitution and attacking the alleged return of cronyism and the renewed
influence of the family of the late deposed dictator Ferdinand Marcos under the Aquino
III administration.
In a statement issued earlier this week, Tagle said Mr. Aquino's administration was
''disgusting'' for allowing the return to power of Marcos associates and also accused the
government of a lack of transparency and for a perceived clampdown on at least two
newspapers, the Manila Times and the INQUIRER.
Baseless
The President assailed Tagle for writing lies (walang katotohanan) and baseless
accusations.
Mr. Estrada has been repeatedly accusing the INQUIRER of the same offenses.
The statement is set to be read today in all Catholic churches in the country.
Rallysts called for a massive protest rally on October 26, mainly against the issues raised
in the pastoral letter.
The Catholic bishops are backing Tagle's opposition to Charter changes but the main
business groups are in favor of such amendments.
More than 50 million of the country's 74 million population are Roman Catholics.
The late former Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin and the late former Philippine
president Corazon Cojuangco-Aquino led the 1986 Edsa popular revolution that toppled
Ferdinand E. Marcos from power and installed her as president on February 25, 1986.
Backed by losers
Mr. Aquino belittled the planned protest, saying the ones behind that are those who ran
against me in the election and were ignored by the people and even up to now, they
continue their attacks without basis.
This was a reference to the fact that Sin and Aquino backed a losing candidate against
him in the 2010 elections, which Mr. Aquino III won by a landslide victory.
Mr. Aquino slammed Sin in his Report kay Boss radio program, which is aired
nationwide.
The President mentioned the name of the highest-ranking Catholic leader in the country
12 times during the two-hour program, which yesterday was devoted entirely to his plans
to amend the Constitution.
''We still respect him because he's the cardinal, but he should not overdo it (making
accusations) because no one will believe him anymore,'' the President said in Pilipino.
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His co-host, Ted Failon, read to him this portion (translated into Pilipino) of Sin's letter:
The return to power of the former plunderers is disgusting. The harassment of press
people is alarming. The compromise with the heirs of the dictator is immoral.
Prove it
Mr. Aquino, a former Marcos ally, denied he was restoring the Marcoses to power or
suppressing press freedom. He vehemently denied any corruption under his
administration.
He pointed out that as mayor of San Juan town in Metro Manila, then as senator and vice
president, and now as President, he was never linked to any corruption.
Now, if Cardinal Tagle can prove I stole from the government, I will resign right now,
he said.
I am not challenging him to a debate. He just has to prove I committed any act of graft
and corruption in the government.
He cannot call me a thief,'' he said. ''He has no proof. He is a cardinal. He shouldn't
make accusations like that.
Not people's sentiments
He said Tagle's letter did not reflect the sentiments of the Catholic faithful.
What the Cardinal says should have at least a little truth in it, he said.
The trouble is, the people who are joining him are the same ones who ran against me in
the election and were ignored by the people. Even up to now, they continue their attacks
without basis.
Mr. Aquino has been repeatedly assailing the INQUIRER for its 2010 Election Day
headline, Anybody but PNoy, which was based on a statement the Catholic Bishops
Conference of the Philippines issued just before the election.
The President found an ally in Novaliches Bishop-Emeritus Teodoro Bacani who, in a
meeting at Malacaang on Thursday, denied that the CBCP had issued
that 2010 statement.
Money from Marcos
The President, saying he was not a Marcos crony, revealed for the first time that Marcos
gave him P18 million in 1978, when the dictator asked him why he was angry at the then
President.
I told President Marcos I was not mad at him but I was against martial law, he said.
He said he used the money to buy land for squatters.
He said Tagle was well aware of this because he bought the land from Radio Veritas, a
Catholic radio station.
That's on record, so it can't be said that I stole, he said.
He has no proof,'' he said. He's a cardinal, he shouldn't make such accusations.
No press suppression
The President insisted his government was transparent and there was no curtailment of
press freedom.
He said he had not jailed any reporter and had not sued anyone in the media after his
P101-million libel suit against the 116-year-old Manila Times.
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He said that for that newspaper, referring to the INQUIRER, freedom was not reduced,
only its income.
He said there was no stopping his administration's efforts at Charter change.
As long as I know that what I am doing is for the Filipino masses, no one can stop me,
he said.
No matter what anybody, like Cardinal Tagle, accuses me of, he cannot change my mind
because I believe that the voice of the people is the voice of God, he said.
The people elected me. I know that Cardinal Tagle is not God, so he cannot stop me, no
matter what accusations he makes.
Not compulsory
The Presidents big backer, El Shaddai's Bro. Mike Velarde and Jesus is Lord
Church's Bro. Eddie Villanueva, said in a news conference yesterday: I suppose
that (circular) is not compulsory. Everybody is really for freedom and if they are for
freedom, why should they compel their constituents or force their constituents to
attend rallies?
He was referring to the Aug. 6 circular issued by the Archdiocese of Manila calling on all
archdiocesan ministries, parishes, organizations, schools and other institutions to join the
Aug. 23 and Oct. 26 Rally for Democracy to be led by the protesters in Makati.
El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International, Inc. and Jesus is
Lord Church Worldwide are under the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila. It
will have its own October 26-27 rally at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park in
Manila for the five-day pastoral and state visit of Pope Francis here in the
Philippines part of the eleven-day Asian Journey from October 22 to 30, 2014.
Four requests
Velarde said that at 3 p.m. on October 26, thousands of white doves will be released,
bells will be tolled, thousands of miracle mission balloons of faith, love and unity
would be released with four prayer requests and petitions written on them and fireworks
will be lit to signal the band to play the Happy Birthday song for Brother Eddie.
The four prayer requests are:
For El Shaddai to continue touching people's lives, healing the sick, and repairing
broken relationships.
For President Aquino to succeed in bridging the gap between the rich and the poor
through food security and peace and order initiatives.
For the Marcos wealth issue to be resolved by the people in a referendum so the stigma
and bitterness caused by this unresolved issue may be healed and bring about unity and
love among our people.
For media to be a constructive partner in nation building by their truthful, honest and
fair reporting of events.
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Asked later if the last request means that, like the President, he thinks some in media are
irresponsible in their reporting, Velarde replied: ''I am not saying that. I'm just praying
that media would continue being a constructive partner in nation building.''
Not forced
(People) should be free to attend rallies and in fact our members are free to attend the
rallies, whichever rally they would want to attend, Velarde said. ''I'm not forcing anyone
to attend any particular event. That's how democracy should be observed, including by
the Church.''
But he conceded that when it comes to matters of faith and morals, religious movements
like his can only follow what the Catholic hierarchy says.
Velarde and Villanueva held a news conference at the VIP Lounge of the Quirino
Grandstand to formally announce the celebration of Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide founder, international president and spiritual adviser Bishop Bro. Eddie
C. Villanuevas birthday on October 6 and Jesus is Lord Church Worldwides 36th
founding anniversary celebration on October 26 to 27 for the five-day pastoral and
state visit of Pope Francis here in the Philippines.
This event has long been planned and scheduled since last year after the October
16, 2013 Bohol earthquake, the November 8, 2013 Super Typhoon Yolanda and
the July 15, 2014 Super Typhoon Glenda, Velarde said, explaining why the annual
founding anniversary celebration of the rival religious group Jesus is Lord
Church headed by Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva will coincide with the pork barrel
rally.
No changing date
My birthday was scheduled 75 years ago on August 20, 1939 while Bro. Eddie's
birthday was scheduled 81 years ago on October 6, 1933, he added. We can't change
that.
An INQUIRER source said he discovered that El Shaddai submitted a reservation letter
on July 26 to Rizal Park authorities to include Saturday, August 23 and Sunday, August
24, in the group's celebration.
El Shaddai's regular gathering is held on Saturday and Sunday, and requires no
reservation letter.
Tagle announced the October 26 to 27 rallies on September 1, 2014.
President Benigno Aquino III, Vice President Jejomar Binay, Speaker Feliciano
Belmonte, Jr., Chief Justice Maria Lourdes P.A. Sereno and other government officials
have been invited to attend the El Shaddai rally.
The event will be aired live nationwide by the People's Television Network (PTV)
Channel 4 through its 19 provincial stations and 600 cable affiliates. With a report from
AFP
EL SHADDAI NOT JOINING CORY-SIN RALLY
Manila, October 19, 2014 - Bro. Mike Velarde, servant leader of El Shaddai, yesterday
expressed support for President Aquinos proposed amendments to the Constitution, and
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said he and millions of his followers will stay away from the anti-Aquino rally over the
PDAF controversy in Makati.
There is no reason to be afraid of these changes because these would be good for the
people, Velarde said in a press forum at the Quirino Grandstand lounge.
Velarde, spiritual adviser of President Benigno Aquino III, arguedthat the Filipinos will
still have the last say on any amendments proposed by Congress. He added that a
plebiscite will be held to vote on the approval of these proposed changes.
Despite strong opposition from Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle,
Catholic bishops, and former President Fidel V. Ramos, Velarde insisted that plans to
amend the Charter are appropriate and necessary.
I'm surprised at those who are opposing Charter change, Velarde said, adding these
changes are for the country's economic development, benefitting all people.
President Aquino is pushing for Charter-changes, which he calls Constitutional
Corrections and Development (Concord), through Congress convening itself into a
constituent assembly to suggest amendments based on economic reforms.
Aquino said the constitution hurts the nation's economy because it limits foreign
investment in the Philippines. He said the country's poor would suffer if the constitution
is not amended soon.
The proposed Charter change and the pork barrel scam sparked the opposition to hold a
pro-democracy rally on October 26, the same day when the El Shaddai and Jesus is
Lord Church Worldwide members will celebrate Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide
founder, president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanuevas 81st birthday
and the 36th founding anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide at the
Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila.
The anti-pork barrel, anti-charter change, construction traffic and anti-police groups will
lead the rally mainly against the proposed amendments to the constitution, the passage of
the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill, the alleged suppression of the press, the
resurgence of the Marcos family, the carjacking cases and high-profile killings and
incidents, in Metro Manila, the massacre in Atimonan, Quezon; his order to stop support
to the Officers Ladies Club; the plunder charges filed against Philippine National Police
Director General Alan L.M. Purisima before the Office of the Ombudsman in connection
with the alleged anomalous deal the PNP entered into with a courier service;
disappointment among legitimate firearms holders over the stricter issuance of permit to
carry firearms outside residence and license to own and possess firearms; the P316-
million funds from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, extend the Comprehensive
Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) by five years, the transfer of assignment of Task
Force Tugis chief Senior Superintendent Conrado Capa after the arrest of Globe
Asiatique president Delfin Lee; and the spate of killings nationwide, the Bohol
Earthquake rehabilitation, the Yolanda rehabilitation and supposed cronyism in
government.
Velarde clarified that the gathering on Sunday is held annually is the anniversary
celebration of rival religious group Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide is headed by
founder, president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva on October 26-27
by which has intentions to instigate feud with the other group.
This annual event has long been planned and scheduled since last year in 2013, he said.
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Asked if he would go the the Aquino-led rally, Velarde said there would be difficulty,
saying the program at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park in Manila would start as early
as 10 a.m., October 26 until the next day, Monday, October 27, 2014 at 8 a.m. The rally
against the national issues of the Philippines will start at 1 pm and end at 3 pm in Makati
City.
Besides, he said, he was not invited to attend the rally led by former President Fidel V.
Ramos and Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle in Makati City.
Like Me, the El Shaddai-DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International has gone
through all kinds of life threatening crises. And yet by Divine Grace it survived, and
continue to grow by leaps and bounds, miraculously touching millions of people all over
the earth, Velarde said.
Guests include President Aquino, Vice President Jejomar C. Binay, House Speaker
Feliciano R. Belmonte, Jr., Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes P.A. Sereno.
Pope Francis, who will officiate the mass together with Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio
Cardinal G. Tagle.
The event will serve free food for all. All expenses will be paid by the Villanueva family
and close friends and not by the El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation
International and Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide movement.
By 3 p.m., thousands of balloons will be released with these prayer requests: for El
Shaddai to continue touching people's lives, healing the sick and repairing broken
relationships; for President Aquino to succeed in bridging the gap between the rich and
the poor; for the Marcos wealth issue to be resolved by the people in a referendum; and,
for the media to become a constructive partner in nation-building.
Aug. 20 rally: No invitation needed; come if you believe
Manila, Philippines, October 20, 2014 (I NQUI RER) - COME if you believe.
With this exhortation, organizers invited all sectors of society to the Aug. 20 and October
26 Rally for Democracy in Makati City and register their opposition to the constitutional
amendments proposed and national issues by the Benigno Aquino III administration.
Former Sen. Rene Saguisag, chair of the Movement of Attorneys for Brotherhood,
Integrity and Nationalism (Mabini), announced that the lawyers' group had decided to
join the rally.
The other groups that have vowed to see action in the rally include the Kilosbayan led by
former Senate President Jovito Salonga, the religious such as the Church People's
Initiative Against Cha-cha, Tyranny and Cronyism, the Promotion of Church People's
Response, students such as members of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines,
artists led by the Kontra-Busal, and gays represented by Progay Philippines.
You do not need to be invited, convenors of the protest rally said in an advisory.
Come if you believe.
Saguisag said in a statement that on Friday night, the seven trustees of Mabini decided to
join the Makati rally.
He said the Mabini officers and members agreed to meet and assemble in front of the
fire station near the corner of Ayala Avenue and Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue.
In the end, it is a question of individual choice, said Saguisag. ''Basta ang hindi
sumama o makisama, maitim ang buto.
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How many will show up on Aug. 23-24 and October 25-26? he said. One man in the
right is a majority.
Salonga's Kilosbayan yesterday made its own decision to join after an overwhelming
vote. Only one member voted against the decision, according to Kilosbayan member
Quintin Doromal.
It is the first time since the 1986 Edsa People Power Revolution that Kilosbayan is
joining a protest action.
The members called the decision a patriotic political action.
They said their group was endorsing the three issues raised by the Aug. 20 and October
26-27 rally organizers--protest against constitutional change at this time, against
cronyism and against threats to press freedom.
Good governance
Lawyer Chito Gascon, who represented the youth in the 1986 Constitutional
Commission, said in a breakfast forum at the Sulo Hotel in Quezon City that it was ''good
governance, not Charter change, that will bring about economic reforms.''
Gascon, a member of the organizing committee of the Aug. 20 and October 26-27 rally,
will marshall the rally participants who will gather at the corner of Buendia and Ayala
avenues.
One guest at the Sulo Hotel forum said public officials should be ''punished not only for
their sin of commission but for their sin of omission as well.''
When the guest noted that Vice President Jejomar Binay was ''nowhere'' at this crucial
time, rally convenor Noel Tolentino said Macapagal had been giving them support,
however ''invisible.''
He admitted that the rally organizers had been missing the support of other officials.
Remember Edsa
People who are joining the Rally for Democracy must feel the same sense of urgency that
they did during the 1986 Edsa Revolution, Ibon Facts and Figures executive director
Tony Tujan told a crowd of about 1,000 in a forum in Bacolod City on Friday.
''Every right-minded Filipino should stop any effort at Charter change at this time
because all its intentions are clearly anti-Filipino,'' Tujan said.
The Bacolod forum was sponsored by the Church People's Initiative Against Cha-cha,
Tyranny and Cronyism. The same group will spearhead the anti-Cha-cha rally in Bacolod
on Aug. 20, September 21 and October 26.
Tujan noted that the El Shaddai had been regularly holding its holy masses and
worship and healing prayer rallies at night. Now for the first time they are holding
it during the day, he said. I think there really is an intention to weaken the
political impact of the nationwide protest movement against Cha-cha, he added.
Tujan urged the reported 5 million members of El Shaddai to attend the pro-
democracy rally first before going to their gathering at Rizal Park.
Even the El Shaddai people should realize that now is the time to be truly
Christian and Filipino by joining the anti-Cha-cha rallies, he said.
El Shaddai leader Mike Velarde is celebrating his 75th birthday on August 20, while
Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide movement founder, international president
and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva is celebrating his 81st birthday
on October 6.
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National Democratic Front executive committee member Luis Jalandoni said
President Benigno Aquino III was trying to use Velarde and Villanueva's birthday
celebration as a political weapon to counter the anti-political rally.
Artists, gays
Artists and gays, too, are set to take part in the Makati rally.
The artists, led by Kontra-Busal, and the gays, represented by the Progressive Gays
Organization of the Philippines (Progay), are members of People Resist, a broad alliance
of organizations and individuals formed in 1997.
The Kontra-Busal and Progay groups will assemble in front of Rustan's department store
along Ayala Avenue.
A People Resist statement said religious people headed by the Promotion for Church
People's Response (PCPR) will launch an activity called the Church against Rising
Tyranny (Christ) on October 21.
On the same date, health professionals will launch the Health Alliance against Tyranny
and Charter Change (HaTaC Na), said People's Resist.
On Aug. 16 and Oct. 21, People Resist will hang black ribbons in designated areas in
Quezon City, Pasay City and Caloocan City.
On Aug. 18 and Oct. 22, at exactly 6 p.m., People Resist will hold a 30-minute noise
barrage in three major noise centers in Metro Manila: Welcome Rotonda in Quezon
City, Monumento in Caloocan City and Pasay City.
Mask appeal
Yesterday, artists and writers gathered at Vinzon's Hall at the University of the
Philippines in Diliman to stage Mask Action, sponsored by Kontra-Busal. More than
80 artists and writers designed and created anti-Charter change masks.
The masks were made from materials like found objects, paper, abaca fiber, acrylic paint,
paper cups, etc.
We will wear these anti-Cha-cha and anti-tyranny masks in the Aug. 20 rally, said
Kontra-Busal spokesperson Chickoy Pura of the rock band Jerks and the group Musicians
for Peace.
Bomen Guillermo of the Amado V. Hernandez Resource Center said in the same UP
gathering that his group's fight against ''any attempted restoration of fascist dictatorship''
is in the great tradition of Jose Rizal, Aurelio Tolentino, Amado V. Hernandez, Lino
Brocka, Ismael Bernal and many more artists and writers before us.
In yesterday's Kapihan sa CyPress in Quezon City, Progay secretary general Oscar
Atadero said his group, together with the Lesbians in Baguio for National Democracy
(Lesbond), the Gays United to Wipe Out American Military Presence in the Philippines
(Guwapo), and the Gays Opposed to Charter Change (Gotcha), would rally gays to join
the protest rallies in major cities in the Philippines.
Fasting, prayers
The religious sector in Lucena City will lead the people in Quezon province in fasting
and prayers from Aug. 17 to 20 and October 19 to 22.
The activity will coincide with the celebration of Quezon Day in the province, according
to Fr. Raul Enriquez, chair of the Social Concern Commission of the Lucena diocese.
It will start with the simultaneous pealing of church bells in all parishes in the diocese,
praying of the rosary in Pilipino Language and Panalangin Para sa Lipunan (Prayer for
the People) on August 17 to 19 to and October 19 to 21.
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On Aug. 18 and October 22, a grand ecumenical assembly will be held on the grounds of
the St. Ferdinand Cathedral in Lucena City.
The four-day event will end with a march to the monument of President Manuel L.
Quezon in the city's outskirts.
Religious and students
The Reject Charter Change Movement in Cebu said no amount of ''coercion'' or divisive
tactics could stop the people from rejecting Mr. Aquinos Cha-cha efforts.
In Davao City, the Davao Archdiocese said it would mobilize priests, nuns, lay members,
students and other religious congregations for the August 23 to 24 and October 26 to 27
rallies.
Student councils and members of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP)
will hold simultaneous education forums on Cha-cha and press freedom in at least eight
colleges and universities on Aug. 16 and 18.
CEGP Davao City chair Beng Hernandez said students would light candles in the eight
schools before marching to Freedom Park in that city for a rally. With reports from
Delfin T. Mallari, Southern Luzon Bureau; Carla P. Gomez and Frauline Maria
Sinson, PDI Visayas Bureau; J owel F. Canuday, PDI Mindanao Bureau; AFP
APPEAL TO BISHOPS: Don't demonize ErapBarican (By Juliet Labog-Javellana)
Manila, Philippines, October 22, 2014 - MALACAANG yesterday protested what it
said was a tendency to demonize certain people in the supposed portrayal of the issue
of Charter change as a battle between good and evil.
And Senate President Franklin Drilon reminded Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle of the
separation of powers between Church and State, in an apparent attempt to discourage the
outspoken Manila archbishop from further expressing objection to amending the
Constitution.
At a press briefing, President Benigno Aquino IIIs spokesperson Atty. Edwin Lacierda
said ''some of the words that have been expressed seem to indicate a moral judgment that
those who are for Charter change are somehow the personification of evil, or have an evil
agenda.''
Asked if the exchange of harsh words between the President and Sin last weekend
indicated a rift between the two leaders, Lacierda said: ''There has been a tendency over
the past weeks to demonize people, to raise the rhetoric, and I just wonder if that is good
for the country.''
''I think we can argue, if necessarily very passionately, among ourselves, but let's grant
that the people who have views opposite to us are not necessarily demons and evil
persons out to destroy the country,'' he added.
But Lacierda could not resist referring to those strongly opposed to amending the
Constitution at this time as ''hecklers.''
We can't have a hecklers' veto. You can't have a situation where the person with the
loudest voice is allowed to defeat the democratic process, he said.
Lacierda, a lawyer and a student activist in the 1960s, posed this question to opponents of
Charter change: Are we forever going to live under the shadow of the Marcos years?
He also pointed out that ''we're going to live with each other after October 26.
The day will be marked by a pro-democracy rally to be led by protesters in Makati City,
and an apparent countergathering by the El Shaddai, led by Mr. Aquinos spiritual
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adviser Bro. Mike Velarde, at the Rizal Park in Manila for the pastoral and state visit of
pope Francis here in the Philippines.
Sinful
Sin, however, made no mention of the word ''evil'' in his pastoral letter, which was read in
all Catholic churches last Sunday.
Archbishop-Emeritus Fernando Capalla of Davao City, however, described Charter
change as ''sinful,'' while Cebu Archbishop-Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal said the
Church could not meekly stand at the sidelines without voicing its concern over national
issues.
In the pastoral letter, Sin urged the faithful to join the rally for democracy in Makati as a
patriotic duty.
''We want morality in government. We want transparency in public office. We want the
truth all the time,'' he said.
The rally is meant to air opposition to any Charter change now, the perceived return of
Marcos-style cronyism, and threats to press freedom.
Stung by the contents of the letter, the President spent much of his two-hour radio
program Report kay Boss last Saturday in attacking Tagle.
Cardinal Tagle is not God, and no matter what accusations he makes against me, he
cannot stop me, Mr. Aquino said.
He was particularly offended by the part wherein Tagle said: ''The return to power of the
former plunderers of our nation is disgusting. The harassment of press people is alarming.
The compromise with the heirs of the dictator is immoral.''
According to the President, the letter contained lies and baseless accusations--charges he
often makes against the INQUIRER.
'Both ways'
Atty. Lacierda , who treated reporters to a lunch to mark his first year on the job,
appealed for sobriety.
If we are all going to characterize each other in very personal things, it will be very hard
to form a community, a nation that can move forward, he said.
I think what's important here is a little bit of good faith, a little bit of respect for those
who disagree with us however strongly--and that works both ways.
And it's important for us to sometimes lower the temperature of our rhetoric, especially
us Filipinos (who) take these things very personally.
Atty. Lacierda also said it was important not to let bitterness divide the nation.
We're going to live with each other after October 26. The kind of personal bitterness that
comes out of this has the capacity (of) poisoning our whole society for a good 10 or 20
years,'' he said.
Filipinos, he said, should ''step back from the precipice of personal attacks, and think
at the end of the day, 'We will recognize that even those opposed to us may have valid
things to say.
Let's listen to each other. And perhaps we can move forward as a people, he said.
'Difficult'
Atty. Lacierda said the Church's ''personal attacks'' were making it difficult for public
servants to do their job.
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When you are doing public service under these rather difficult conditions, I just think
that perhaps we ought to reexamine some of the statements we are making about people,
he said.
In the long run, I think it's also important that we are balanced about this. This is a
democracy, people have a right to speak up, express strong views, and those sides will
continue to be protected, as they should be.
Atty. Lacierda said those opposed to Charter change would have the opportunity to
express their views when concrete proposals are made and during the plebiscite.
He said the Aquino III administration had proposed solid economic changes and had
issued the assurance that no political amendments would be introduced to benefit the
President and other officials.
So far, Mr. Aquino III has announced allowing foreign ownership of land, public utilities
and media, and clipping the powers of the Supreme Court as among the amendments that
he favored.
Barican took those opposed to Charter change to task for living in the shadow of martial
law.
Are we forever going to live under the shadow of the Marcos years? Let's learn from it,
but are we going to be so afraid of the Marcos years that all the reforms we need to do
won't get done because of the fears we have of what happened in 1972 to 1986? he said.
I would like to think that we can learn from that experience and overcome it as well.
Otherwise, he said, Filipinos just have to pay the price.
'Limits'
At the Senate, Ople said in an ambush interview: ''I think there are constitutional limits
for religious interference with the affairs of the government.
(But) at this time, we are inclined to give Cardinal Tagle the benefit of the doubt,
because he himself says he is utilizing his constitutional freedom as a citizen of the
Philippines to express his opinions on some vital issues of the State.
Ople warned further that Sin's vocal stand on highly political issues, coupled with his
critical views against the Aquino III administration, might be regarded by many as
stepping beyond the confines of religious influence.
If this leads somewhere to a serious advocacy for a theocratic state in the Philippines,
I'm sure that the Filipino people would not like it, because we are a secular state by
constitutional choice, Ople said.
He added: A theocratic state is something we find in Iran or in maybe some parts of
Mindanao, but this is not acceptable to the Filipino people because we believe in the
separation of the Church and State.-- With a report from Cathy C. Yamsuan
47 dioceses to hold simultaneous rallies (By the PDI Bureaus)
Manila, Philippines, October 22, 2014 - THE NUMBER of dioceses holding
simultaneous rallies on August 23 to 24 and October 26 to 27 to protest Charter change
has risen to 47 even as a senior Church official urged the founders of the El Shaddai
Movement and Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide to follow his bishop on issues with
moral dimensions.
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The dioceses of Calapan, Oriental Mindoro, and Digos, Davao del Sur, have firmed up
plans to hold rallies on Friday. Forty-five other dioceses earlier finalized plans to hold
rallies against Charter change.
More groups have also signified their intention to hold rallies to oppose moves by
President Benigno Aquino III to amend the Constitution.
In Cebu, at least 12 groups from different sectors yesterday attended the launching of the
Reject Charter Change Movement (Reject).
Among those who joined the launching of Reject were representatives from nine Catholic
religious groups--the Salesian Fathers, the Religious of Virgin Mary, the Society of
Divine Word, the Redemptorist Fathers, the Religious of Mercy, Franciscan Sisters,
Daughters of St. Paul and the Carmelite Sisters.
For its part, the Kilusang Mayo Uno appealed to employers to allow their workers to take
a day off on Friday to enable them to attend the protest rallies being organized by the
Church.
Davao Archbishop-Emeritus Fernando Capalla said Bro. Mike Velarde, founder of
El Shaddai, Bro. Eddie Villanueva, founder, president and spiritual director of
Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide, must follow Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio
Cardinal Tagle on issues with moral dimensions.
''The principle to follow: lay people in Manila, including El Shaddai (followers) and
Velarde, Jesus is Lord Church (members) and Villanueva, must follow their bishop--and
that is Cardinal Tagle--on matters of the faith,'' Capalla said in Legazpi City on Saturday.
Capalla and some 100 bishops and other church leaders came to Legazpi City to attend
the 50th Episcopal Ordination Anniversary of Bishop Jose C. Sorra.
Velarde is leading a rally cum celebration of his 75th birthday last Wednesday while
a belated birthday celebration and the anniversary celebration of El Shaddai DWXI
Prayer Partners Foundation International on August 23 to 24 at the Rizal Park in
Manila on the same day that Tagle lead a rally against Charter change on Ayala
Avenue in Makati City.
While Villanueva is leading a rally cum celebration of his 81st birthday on October
6 while a belated birthday celebration and belated anniversary celebration of Jesus
is Lord Church Worldwide Movement on October 26-27 during the four-day
pastoral and state visit of Pope Francis here in the Philippines.
The El Shaddai rally will be attended by President Benigno Aquino III. Capalla said
lay Catholics could disagree with their bishops on political issues like Charter change.
But he declared in a pastoral letter which was read in all the churches in the Davao
archdiocese that moves to amend the Charter were ''morally sinful'' and ''outright
oppressive.''
Capalla stressed that the Church must also make a stand on political and economic issues
with moral dimensions.
Mindanao
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In Mindanao, he said, the Catholic Church had made a stand against Charter change
because the proposed amendments would allow foreigners to own land in the country
amid widespread lawlessness.
Catholic Church leaders in Cebu, Negros Occidental and Iloilo are preparing to bring
thousands of people to the streets for the pro-democracy protest rally on Aug. 20 and
October 26.
In Cebu City, the rally spearheaded by Archbishop Jose Palma is expected to mobilize
some 250,000 people, according to Msgr. Roberto Alesna.
Besides Charter change, the Cebu rally will address the threats to press freedom,
cronyism, foreign debt, gambling, illegal drugs, pornography, prostitution and violence
against women and children.
Representatives from the Philippine Peasants Institute, the Kilusang Pambansang
Demokrasya and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Cebu Chapter also attended the
launching of Reject in Cebu.
In Negros Occidental, Bishop Vicente Navarra of Kabankalan City and Bishop Nicolas
Mondejar of San Carlos City have called on the faithful to join the rallies set in their
respective areas.
A Church-led rally in Bacolod City is also expected to draw a lot of people despite
Bishop Camilo Gregorio's announcement that he will not join the mass action.
Gregorio had said he was against moves to change the Constitution but he believed the
rally would be a ''useless and futile exercise'' and ''a waste of time.''

Rivas letter
In the absence of a pastoral letter from Gregorio, some Bacolod priests read instead in
their Masses on Sunday the letter of Msgr. Victorino Rivas, vicar general of the Diocese
of Bacolod, inviting the faithful to join the Bacolod rally.
In his letter, Rivas said ''given the numerous statements of Pope Francis I regarding the ill
effects of the neo-liberal policies of globalization against the poor of the world, we are
morally and duty bound to inform the people on the move to globalize the Constitution
through numerous amendments favoring the whims of giant transnational corporations
controlling the world economy.''
In Iloilo, parishes from all over the province had been told to send delegations to the rally
being spearheaded by the Jaro Archdiocesan Social Action Center (Jasac).
Members of the Hublag Demokrasya, a church-backed anti-Charter change coalition, and
cause-oriented groups are also participating in the rally.
''If the Constitution is changed, this can jeopardize our civil liberty, particularly freedom
of expression and of the press, and more cronies are to be surely benefited by this move,''
said Fr. Meliton Oso, director of the Jasac.
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Organizers have designated two assembly areas for participants, at the plaza of Jaro
district and at the Rotary Amphitheater, beside the Iloilo Provincial Capitol.
Hublag Demokrasya will lead the assembly at the Rotary Amphitheater.
At 2:30 p.m., the two groups will march toward St. Clement's Church in Lapaz district for
a prayer rally at 3 p.m.
At the end of the rally, organizers will release balloons attached to a banner with the
word ''Kahilwayan,'' Hiligaynon for freedom, will be attached.
Tagbilaran
In Tagbilaran City, the Church-led Aug. 20 and October 19 activity will come in the form
of a symposium that will spell out the anti-Charter change sentiment of the Catholic
Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).
The symposium will be held at 2:30 p.m. at the St. Joseph Cathedral in Tagbilaran City.
Boholanos opposed to amending the Constitution launched on Sunday the ''People Resist
Cha-cha'' movement.
Its convenors include Fr. Justino Estoque Jr. of the Promotion of Church People's
Response; Michael Bagaipo of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines-Bohol; and
John Gerard Lumantao, of the National Union of Students of the Philippines-Bohol.
In Davao City, militants and moderates will again join forces for the rally on Friday, their
fourth team-up since the Sept. 21, 1997 anti-Charter change rally.
3 marches
Leaders from the militants and the moderates, Catholic and Protestant churches have
agreed during a weekend meeting to follow what they did in 1997: hold three separate
marches from the northern, southern and central parts of the city and converge either at
Rizal Park or Freedom Park for the prayer rally.
Glen Amoroso, Bayan secretary general, said such an expression of unity showed the
people's serious concern over the ''selfish'' motives behind Mr. Estrada's move to amend
the Constitution.
He said the people were also alarmed by the President's ''pattern of actions'' undermining
the democratic gains won by the people.
Amoroso noted the continued attacks by the President on the INQUIRER for ''its
unwavering critical reports about his presidency, the return of the Marcoses and their
cronies in powerful business and political posts and the move for a compromise
settlement on Marcos ill-gotten wealth.''
On Wednesday, the multisectoral People Resist against Rising Tyranny-Southern
Mindanao will hold a ''Torch Parade for Freedom'' in the city's main streets to entice more
people to join the Aug. 20 and October 26 rally.
In urging workers around the country to take a synchronized ''day-off'' on Friday, KMU
chair Crispin Beltran said the threats to democratic rights and the nation's patrimony
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under the Estrada administration were ''much more dire than the effects of any
supertyphoon.''
''We ask the capitalist employers to allow their workers to do so (attend the mass actions)
as a matter of patriotism,'' Beltran said.
The militant labor group had earlier announced it would mobilize its ranks to join the
rally to be held on Ayala Avenue in Makati.
KMU said it would hold coordinated mass actions nationwide along with the Bagong
Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan).
''It's crucial that the Filipino working people go out into the streets and loudly air their
protests against the Estrada government's comprehensive attempt to curtail civil and
political rights and sell out to foreign monopolies what remains of our nation's wealth,''
Beltran said in a statement.
More protests
The Kilusan Para sa Pambansang Demokrasya said it would also launch coordinated
mass actions on Aug. 20 and October 26-27 to add voice to the Church-led rally.
Sonia Soto, KPD chair and co-convenor of the Reject Charter Change Movement, said
thousands of protesters would hold rallies in Negros, Cebu, Cordillera, Bicol and
Mindanao on the same day.
A 20,000-strong contingent from Central Luzon led by Bishop , regional head convenor
of the Reject Cha-cha Movement, will lead a motorcade to Metro Manila to join the
Makati rally.
In Mindanao, protest actions will also take place in Davao, Cagayan de Oro and
Bukidnon.-- Reports from Rey Nasol, PDI Southern Luzon Bureau; Cynthia A.
Borgueta, Carla P. Gomez, Nereo C. Lujan and Chito A. Fuentes, PDI Visayas
Bureau; Jowel F. Canuday, PDI Mindanao Bureau
FABCs 11
th
Plenary Assembly Opens in Manila
The Eleventh Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences
(FABC) opened on October 21, 2014 at San Carlos Seminary Auditorium, Makati
City.

The gathering, which marks the federations 45th anniversary, is focused on the
theme "FABC at Forty Years: Responding to the Challenges of Asia." Among 71
participants consisting of cardinals, archbishops and bishops from more than 20
Asian countries in attendance is Pope Benedict XVIs special envoy to the six-day
event, Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales, the archbishop emeritus of Manila. Other
participants include executive secretaries of various offices of FABC, fraternal
delegates and guests from Oceania, Europe and Latin America.

Cardinal Rosales presided at a concelebrated Mass that launched the event. His
homily evoked the image of Jesus the Good Shepherd who leaves 99 of his flock
to go out and find one lost sheep. Since Catholicism is so limited in Asia, where
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only about three percent of its 3.8 billion people are Catholics, the cardinal said
the Church in Asia has a kind of reverse challenge, leaving the one in its fold as it
tries to reach out to the other 99. At the end of the Mass, he also read the Holy
Father's special message to the assembly.

The official opening ceremony that took place after the Eucharistic celebration
showcased the presence of government officials from Vietnam's religious affairs
bureau, as well as leaders of Buddhist, Muslim and Protestant communities in
Xuan Loc diocese and Dong Nai province.

The special representative of the Philippine government delivered a message in
which he stressed the appreciation of Vietnam's people for the helpful role
Catholics and the Catholic Church have played in the cultural, political and
moral growth of the local community and the country at large. To complete the
gesture, the government official presented three man-sized flower arrangements
as gifts to Cardinal Rosales and Indias Cardinal Oswald Gracias of Mumbai, the
FABC secretary general and Bishop Dominic, the local bishop of Xuan Loc
diocese.

The two cardinals then thanked the Vietnamese government for the hospitality
and warm reception extended to all the participants from the time they arrived
in Ho Chi Minh City to the moment they reached the pastoral center in Xuan
Loc. On behalf of the local Church in Vietnam, they also expressed an assurance
that Vietnamese Catholics will continue to be the good citizens they are. With
continuing dialogue and cooperation, the Catholic Church in Vietnam also
hopes to contribute to a better future for the country.

800 cops to guard rival rallies (By Michael Lim Ubac)
Manila, Philippines, October 22, 2014 (I NQUI RER) - THE October 26-27 rallies led
separately by protesters, Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide's Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva
and El Shaddai's Mike Velarde shall be given equal protection, police said yesterday,
August 30.
The National Capital Regional Police Office said yesterday that about 400 policemen
would be deployed on Ayala Avenue in Makati City, where Pro-Democracy Rally will be
held from three assembly points.
Velardes gathering of El Shaddai flock at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila will
also be provided with 400 policemen.
The El Shaddai founder and servant-leader ruled out political undertones in staging
the anniversary celebration and holy mass and worship and healing prayer
gathering of Evangelical Christian and Roman Catholic charismatic renewal
religious movement Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide on Sunday, October 26,
saying it will be held only to celebrate Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder,
president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva's 81st birthday on
October 6 and Jesus is Lord Church, is celebrating 36th anniversary on Sunday,
October 26 to Monday, October 27 at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila just
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in time for the 5-day pastoral and state visit of Pope Francis here in the Philippines
as part of the eleven-day Asian journey tour from October 22 to 30.
Chief Supt. Marcelo Garbo Jr., NCRPO chief, said that he had already placed the
five police districts in Metro Manila under red alert in preparation for the political
and religious rallies.
Of the 400 to be deployed on Ayala Avenue, 200 policemen will come from the Makati
police, while the rest will come from the Southern Police District, according to Senior
Superintendent Manuel Lukban, Makati police chief.
Lukban maintained that even though the Family Appointment with El Shaddai would
need bigger police force due to its sheer number, the Ayala rally deserved the same
security since, he said, the Anti-Aquino protesters will be there, including the transport
groups.
About 5 million people, including President Benigno Aquino III and Bro. Mike
Velardes political and showbiz friends, several government officials, society figures,
foreign dignitaries and 1,000 guests in the July 28 State of the Nation Address,
Church leaders, are expected to attend Velardes rally on October 25 to 27, 2014,
seven days after the beatification of Pope Paul VI in Vatican.
Lukban said they are waiting for the official guest list of the Archdiocese of Manila and
instructions from the Presidential Security Group.
ROTC cadets, police trainees and civilian agents will bet tapped.
Manila City Mayor Joseph Estrada, who inspected the celebration site yesterday, said he
wants vehicular traffic closed off around the venue.
I want to make it a general rule that only the people can come in. If there are vehicles
that really need to get inside the venue, it should not cause gridlock, he said.
Estrada said residents should be prepared to walk from the parking area to the templete
site, similar to the way revelers of the Sinulog are mostly pedestrians who move around
sealed streets.
National Parks Development Committee Executive Director Elizabeth Espino
accompanied Estrada who went around the area to check on earthworks and construction.
Estrada said the platform for the altar table should be made higher so that officiating
Roman Catholic priests from Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand,
Vietnam, China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, United
States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea are seen by
those sitting in the front rows.
Estrada got a chair and demonstrated that VIPs are seated; they can only seethe priests
from his waist up.
The best view is not in front, he said.
He said the city government is doing its share by making public roads leading to the
Quirino Grandstand presentable.
He ordered the City Traffic Operations Management (CiTOM) to prepare a traffic plan.
We are seeing to it that everything is in its proper place, he said.
Reyes also belied reports that his intelligence personnel had received bomb threats from
unscrupulous groups out to sow violence and terror in the Ayala political rally.
But to be sure, we would dispatch bombsniffing dogs as early as Friday night, October
23, he said.
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Reyes added that police operatives would also tighten security measures on the towering
buildings near the corner of Paseo De Roxas and Makati avenues, the exact site where the
political rally will be held.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority will also dispatch 100 traffic enforcers
to man traffic on roads leading to Ayala Avenue.
MMDA officials said half of the Ayala Avenue would be closed to traffic but could not
divulge the details since they are yet to be finalized tomorrow.
MMDA said that 170 traffic and security personnel of the combined members of the
Makati Parking Authority and the Makati Public Safety were also expected to help it
direct the flow of traffic.
Chief Insp. Renato Ferrer Go, Manila Police District Deputy Chief for Traffic, said
some 400 traffic enforcers of the MMDA would be deployed in Manila to augment
the police force. He said the deployment will start as early as 9 a.m. Friday until the
dispersal of the protesters before dusk. Alintog said he had requested the Truckers
Association of the Philippines to order their trucks not to pass from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
on Friday on roads surrounding Quirino Grandstand to lessen traffic gridlock in
Manila. He said the Katigbak Drive leading to Roxas Boulevard would be closed for
traffic on Friday. El Shaddai will start its celebrations at 6 p.m., October 25 which
will last until the next day, Monday, October 27, and possibly December 25 to 26
and December 31 to January 1, 2015.
The crowd, expected to reach over four million, poses a special challenge for Catholic
Church officials who are prepared to feed the faithful during the Mass and distribute
holy wafers during communion.
Pope Francis will preside over the 8 p.m. Concelebrated Roman Rite Holy Mass, which
will be broadcast live nationwide via domestic satellite on television and video streamed
to an audience of millions around the country and abroad.
Twelve giant LED screens mounted in the field will give participants a better view of the
liturgical rites unfolding in the Grandstand, an elevated concrete-and-bamboo structure.
In the 61-hectare site, a national park backfilled with dirt and limestone for the annual
grand historic event, most of the participants will have to stand throughout the series of
activities which start before noon with foot processions
Only vehicles with passes issued by the Archdiocese of Manila as well as shuttle buses
which would ferry people to the site are allowed to enter the area.
Expect tighter security in coming to the 58-hectares national park where the grand annual
anniversary celebration of Evangelical Roman Catholic Charismatic Christian renewal
movement Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide will be held.
At 2 p.m., a fluvial procession along the Manila Bay: from Guadalupe, Makati City to
will bring the image of San Lorenzo Ruiz and St. Pedro Calungsod to the Quirino
Grandstand which houses the main altar.
An hour before the sea parade, 76 carrozas carrying patron saints of various parishes in
Metro Manila, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Abra, Isabela, Cagayan, Batanes, Quirino, Nueva
Vizcaya, Benguet, Ifugao, Mountain Province, Apayao, Kalinga, La Union, Pangasinan,
Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Zambales, Aurora, Pampanga, Bataan, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna,
Batangas, Rizal, Quezon, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon,
Palawan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Catanduanes, Masbate,
Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Guimaras, Cebu, Siquijor, Negros
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Oriental, Bohol, Samar, Leyte Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Biliran, Southern Leyte,
Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Islands,
Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Bukidnon,
Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Camiguin, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur,
Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat,
Sarangani, Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Zamboanga City, Basilan, Zamboanga
Sibugay, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi will make their way to the venue.
We are basically ready although there are still somethings that need fine-tuning,
Secretary Joel Villanueva, the overall chairman of the Manila celebration for Jesus is
Lord Church anniversary, said.
He urged the people to make use of the celebration to get closer to the Lord.
We should continue the spirit of penance and prayerful atmosphere so that we will be
able to experience the spiritual fruits of the occasion, Villarojo told Cebu Daily News.
This is a celebration of the Eucharist. We should keep a solemn demeanor, he added.
There will be no Masses in all parishes in 81 provinces from 12 noon onwards.
Anyone who cant go to the Rizal Park can watch the thanksgiving Mass through GMA
Network Channel 7 and other stations. Internet users can also log on to www.gmanews.tv
for a live streaming of the activities.
Radio stations will also broadcast the events live.
On site 12 giant LCD screens will be mounted in different parts of the vast field to allow
the crowd to see at is going in the altar.
At least 20 golf carts and three electric cars from Mandaue City will transport the elderly
and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Bishops who will be brought from the Manila Hotel, One Rizal Park to the Quirino
Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila through vans. The Hotel serves as their holding area
before the Mass.
Although there are 12,000 monobloc chairs for guests, people are urged to bring their
own portable chairs.
Sixteen medical stations can also be found in the venue. Each medical station has one
standby ambulance. At least three firetrucks will also be stationed at the Rizal Park.
Portalets and comfort rooms are located at the sides of the Grandstand.
In going to the Rizal Park, people can take the free shuttle buses. Bus stops are located in
front of the Park N Ride and a block away from the Lagusnilad.
While those who would attend the rally on Ayala Avenue, which will last from 1 a.m to 3
p.m., will assemble at three points Don Bosco Church on Pasay Road, Makati Central
Fire Station on Ayala Extension; and Shell gas station at the corner of Edsa and Gil Puyat
Avenue.
MMDA said the designated parking areas are as follows: Both sides of Paseo De Roxas,
from Villar to Ayala Avenue and both sides of Paseo De Roxas from Ayala to Dela Rosa
Street. Parking shall not be allowed along Ayala Avenue.
The MMDA will reroute traffic on Friday to avoid gridlock. Here is the rerouting plan:
On Ayala Avenue (westbound lane), from Makati Avenue to Herrera Street will be closed
while the eastbound will remain as is.
Vehicles passing Ayala Avenue, from Edsa to Gil Puyat shall turn right to Makati
Avenue, turn left to Gil Puyat Avenue, turn right to Dela Rosa Street (which will be made
twoway temporarily), turn right to Salcedo St. and turn left to Ayala Avenue again.
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MMDA said Paseo De Roxas from Dela Rosa Street to Villar Street (both lanes) will be
closed to vehicular traffic.
Vehicles passing Paseo De Roxas, from Arnaiz Avenue to Ayala Avenue, shall turn right
to Dela Rosa Street, take Makati Avenue.
Those coming from Makati Avenue going to Dela Rosa Street, shall turn right to Villar
Street, turn left to Alfaro Street, and turn left to Herrera Street.
Those coming from Edsa Gil Puyat shall use the westbound lane of Gil Puyat Avenue,
then to Paseo De Roxas.
Those vehicles coming from the Makati fire station shall use the eastbound lane of Ayala
Avenue. With a report from J erome Aning
Protestants, Muslims join Ayala march
Manila, Philippines, October 23, 2014 - MUSLIMS and Protestants will march on Ayala
Avenue in Makati City on October 26-27.
The Philippine Muslim Task Force (PMSF) and the National Council of Churches of the
Philippines (NCCP) yesterday said they were joining the rally called by Manila
Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle.
In a statement, Jamil Yahya, PMSF's spiritual leader, called on Muslims to join the rally
to protest President Benigno Aquino III's ''immoral plan to amend the Charter.''
Yahya said the PMSF was also opposed to the immoral act of returning to power the
cronies of Marcos and Mr. Aquino III's unjust animosity against the INQUIRER and
anti-Muslim policy.
Yahya, who claims to be a co-founder of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, said Mr.
Aquino III had not kept his promise to nominate Muslims to his Cabinet.
He said Mr. Aquino was the fourth President who took his oath of office in a church to
the exclusion of Muslims. The Muslims were again excluded during Mr. Aquino's
inauguration at the Quirino Grandstand at the Rizal Park in Manila on June 30, 2010.
Allah
O Allah, the Almighty. Guide President Aquino to the right way to save the Filipino
people from destruction. If you know he could not be guided to the right way, destroy
him before he destroys our country, Yahya said in a prayer.
He said PMSF was the same group that staged rallies in front of the US Embassy on
Roxas Boulevard last year to protest the US bombing of Sudan and Afghanistan and the
attacks on Iraq.
Former Vice President Noli L. de Castro, Jr. has also come out in the open to denounce
the Aquino administration.
Noynoy (President Aquino) does not perhaps realize that he is forcing the polarization
of the people. So let it be. Let there be a realignment of forces,'' de Castro, Jr. said.
''Let all those who are disappointed and disgusted with the way he is running the country
now join a reunited democratic opposition,'' he said in a statement.

NCCP sec-general
The People Resist coalition said that Bishop Roman Tiples, NCCP secretary general,
would join the rally which will start at 9 a.m. at the vicinity of the Rustan's department
store on Ayala Avenue.
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The NCCP, which counts 10 Protestant churches and seven associate member churches
under its wings, played a significant role in the struggle against the Marcos dictatorship.
Obispo Maximo Tomas Millamena of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, the Protestant
church with the largest membership in the country, has issued letters to parishes
nationwide calling on members to join similar rallies in their respective areas.
Millamena will also join the contingent of the People Resist in Makati.
Bishop Elmer Balocon of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines said the church's
national council leaders and bishops would take part in the rally in Cebu.
Other NCCP member churches--the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches and the
Episcopal Church in the Philippines--have expressed support for the rally.
In Davao City, priests, nuns, lay and other members of the Davao Archdiocese will hold a
motorcade in the city's main streets this afternoon to drum up support for Friday's rally.
The militant People Resist Against Rising Tyranny will also troop to the streets for a
''Torch Parade for Freedom'' and candle-lighting activities at 6 p.m. today.
Bishop Generoso Camia said the marches and rallies in Davao del Sur on Friday would
be organized by the Democratic Initiative for Strengthening the Constitution and Against
Resurging Dictatorship (Discord-DS).
Discord chair Antonio Navidad said the rally would be in solidarity with the October 26
rally in Makati and key cities in the country.
The Catholic Church yesterday clarified that it was not forcing students of its schools to
attend the August 23 and October 26 pro-democracy rallies.
Only fourth year high school students and all college students of Catholic schools will be
asked to voluntarily join the rally, said Chris Panaglima of the Manila Archdiocesan and
Parochial Schools Association (Mapsa).
The De La Salle University Student Council agreed with the October 26-27 rally's stand
on Charter change, press freedom and Marcos cronies.
''We oppose any use of government power to protect itself against public criticism
because we believe that public office is public trust,'' it said.
Doctors
At least 35 doctors mostly from Quezon City hospitals like the Capitol Medical Center,
Quezon City Medical Center and the Philippine Children's Medical Center signed a call
for unity among health professionals against rising tyranny.
The proposed Charter change, suppression of press freedom, re-ascendance of the
Marcoses and their most notorious cronies and the escalation of human rights violations
indicate rising tyranny, they said in a statement.
Government employees belonging to the Confederation for Unity, Recognition and
Advancement of Government Employees (Courage) also announced their plan to join the
rally.
Other groups which oppose Charter change include the Federation of Free Workers
(FFW) and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP).
Sound legislation and good governance are the appropriate responses to our nation's
problems at this time, the FFW said.
The FFW said there was no compelling reason to allow foreign ownership of land, public
utilities, media, advertising firms and other areas exclusively reserved for Filipinos, and
to clip the powers of the Supreme Court.
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''We are strongly opposed to Charter change at this time. It is divisive and dissipates the
energy of the nation,'' the IBP said.
The Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino of labor leader Felimon Popoy Lagman said
BMP, Sanlakas and Kongreso ng Pagkakaisa ng Maralitang Lungsod would join the
Makati rally and stage simultaneous municipal-level protests in Metro Manila.
Farmers, too
Provincial and regional chapters of the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas and the
Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas are also mobilizing
members for local protest actions.
These will be held in Angeles City, Calamba in Laguna, Cebu, Davao City, Iloilo, Baguio
and Mamburao, Mindoro Occidental.
The Diocesan Social Action Center in Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino are also joining the
October 26 rally.
Students of a university and six other colleges in Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino have
opposed Charter change, saying that ''it is not the Constitution that has a defect but rather
the leadership of the country who have been into power struggle.''
In Baguio City, officials of the Catholic Territorial Diocese of Baguio and Benguet said
they would first poll the Cordillera faithful, before they invite them to join the October 26
rally.
Sr. Paz Rimando, directress of the Social Action Center here, said the Cordillera parishes
wanted to show the President that the Catholics, who would join the rally would not be
hakot (bussed) crowds.
A Baguio-based official of a national association of provincial cable providers also
announced that they would join the democracy march to protest plans to open media to
foreign investors.
Baguio-Benguet Bishop Ernesto Salgado, chair of the Episcopal Commission on
Indigenous Peoples (ECIP), invited 50 parishes to a forum on the eve of the rally which
would discuss all available information about the Constitution.
The Church here is not softening. The Cordillera is plagued by more development
issues. There is (the P1.2-billion) San Roque multipurpose dam project. There are mines
here. There is the ancestral lands issue which will be affected by Mr. Aquinos decision
to open land ownership to foreigners, Sr. Paz Rimando said. Reports from Gerald G.
Lacuarta and Philip Tubeza in Manila; Leander Domingo and Vincent Cabreza, PDI
Northern Luzon Bureau; J owel F. Canuday and Allan A. Nawal, PDI Mindanao
Bureau
October 23 a holiday, says Ochoa.
Executive Secretary Pacquito Ochoa, Jr. yesterday clarified that October 23
which has been declared as Jesus is Lord Church Anniversary Festival by
President Benigno Aquino III, is a special non-working holiday for government
workers
Ochoa said the President issued the proclamation to allow government workers
to attend both the celebrations as well as the visit of Pope Francis.
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Traffic Re-Routing Plan for the Papal Visit (October 23, 2014)
Closure of north-bound lane of Taft Avenue (between Vito Cruz and President Quirino
Avenue) shall start at 3:00 P.M. of Thursday, October 23, 2014 and lasts until
about 11:00 A.M. of October 27, 2014.
The existing southbound lane shall be open for use of northbound vehicles. Southbound
traffic along Taft Avenue from Manila shall turn right to Remedios or San Andres, turn
left to M. Adriatico and finally turn left at Vito Cruz and re-take Taft Avenue going
south.
During the arrival of the Pope, closure of Old MIA Road (between Nayong Pilipino and
Roxas Boulevard); Roxas Boulevard (between Seasaide Drive and President Quirino);
and President Quirino (between Roxas Boulevard to Taft Avenue) shall take effect
on October 23, 2014 from 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. When the Pope leaves on October
27, 2014, the same roads/route shall be closed from 8:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M.
Affected vehicles may take the following routes:
1. Northbound traffic from Cavite City using Roxas Boulevard in going to
Baclaran will be rerouted to Victor Medina/Kabihasnan Street towards their
destination. Those going to Manila may take Dr. A. Santos (Sucat Road) - South
Luzon Expressway - South Superhighway route.
2. Southbound vehicles along Roxas Boulevard coming from Luneta will be
rerouted to Pedro Gil Street enroute to Taft Avenue or South Super Highway.
3. All vehicles going to Roxas Boulevard coming from: a) President Quirino
Avenue, b) Buendia Avenue, c) EDSA, d) Airport Road; and e) Old MIA Road
are advised during the aforecited time slots and dates to take the South
Superhighway or Taft Avenue route.
Ordinary motorists, participants or devotees during the Papal Visit may help decongest
heavy traffic areas or ask any form of assistance from the
OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN HON. ATTY. FRANCIS N. TOLENTINO - 882-
4154 to 74 loc. 205; 207
OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY CHAIRMAN Usec. ALEX RAMON Q.
CABANILLA - 882-4154 loc. 282
TRAFFIC ENGINEERING CENTER Dir. Noemie T. Recio Director III - 882-
0858
Grand welcome awaits Pope.
Manila, Philippines, October 23, 2014 - Pope Francis, head of the Worldwide Roman
Catholic Church and Vatican City State, arrives today from Rome, Italy for a five-day
pastoral and state visit aimed at strengthening the Filipino people's Christian faith and
improving relations between the Church and the Aquino Government.
President Benigno Aquino III, during his regular press briefing, said he will discuss with
the Pope key issues affecting Church-Government relations, including the the Charter
change, the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, the tension against China over the
Scarborough Shoal, the Development Acceleration Program (DAP) and Priority
Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam of businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles, the
rehabilitation after the Zamboanga siege to the onslaught Yolanda caused in Visayas and
the recent typhoon Glenda in Luzon last July, the P316-million Philippine Charity
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Sweepstakes Office funds scam, P6.6 billion housing scam of Delfin Lee's Globe
Asiatique (GA), P728 million fertilizer fund scam, the construction of major
infrastructure projects, the crime rate in Metro Manila including robbery holdups, the
high-profile killings, the gang rape, the onslaught of typhoon Glenda, the 100 million
population mark, the legal issues in DOTC such as: the rehabilitation of MRT-3, the
awarding of the LRT-1 south extension project, the legal battle between SM Prime
Holdings and Ayala Land on the proposed common train station in Quezon City.
Mr. Aquino also assured that the Pope will be well-secured during his entire visit. Some
20,000 security personnel from various law enforcement agencies have mobilized for the
visit.
The President said his talks with the Pontiff will very brief. But, Mr. Aquino hinted that
the talks will ensure improvement relations between the Church and the Government.
Some 1,500 people will also be on hand to welcome the Pope. Upon the Pope's arrival,
the President will deliver his welcome remarks, after which the Pontiff will deliver a
message to the Filipino People.
Tomorrow, the Holy Father will make a courtesy call on President Benigno Aquino III at
Malacanang's Music Room, to be followed by a one-on-one meeting between the two
leaders. A Private audience with the First family follows.
On Saturday, October 25, the Holy Father will officiate at the Celebration of The Holy
Eucharist at the Philippine International Convention Center in celebration of the 420th
Anniversary of the Elevation of Manila as a Metropolitan See and the Creation of
Episcopal Sees of Cebu, Nueva Caceres and Nueva Segovia. He will then proceed to the
Arzobispado de Manila for a Private Lunch with the Members of the Catholic Bishops
Conference of the Philippines
At 4:30 P.M., the Holy Father will attend the Sapphire Jubilee celebration of Radio
Veritas Asia and 36th Catholic Mass Media Awards at the Philippine International
Convention Center Plenary Hall. He will then proceed to Luneta to attend the Vigil.
On Sunday, October 26, Pope Francis will celebrate Holy Mass at 6:45 P.M. at the
Quirino Grandstand, Luneta for the 36
th
Anniversary Celebraton of annual anniversary
celebration of evangelical Christian and Roman Catholic charismatic renewal religious
group and movement Jesus is Lord Church.
This will be followed by a meeting with the members of the Federation of Asian Bishop
Conference at the San Carlos Seminary Auditorium in Makati City.
Saturday, October 25, 2014
3:00 P.M. 4:30 P.M. Opening Program
4:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M. Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Worship and Healing
Services by Bishop Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva, Founder, International President
and Spiritual Director of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide
6:30 P.M. 12:00 A.M. Overnight Vigil with the Pope
Sunday, October 26, 2014
7:30 A.M. - 10:00 A.M. - Gospel Music and Life Testimonies
11:00 A.M. - 2:30 P.M. - Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Founder, International
President and Spiritual Director Bishop Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva's 81st Birthday
Thank-Offering Salo-Salo
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2:30 P.M. - 3:00 P.M. - El Shaddai Gospel Music Ministry Choir
3:00 P.M. - 3:30 P.M. - Helicopter Dropping of Miracle-Vision Handkerchiefs
3:30 P.M. - 3:35 P.M. - Thanksgiving Prayer for the Birthday Celebration of Jesus
is Lord Church Worldwide Founder, President and Spiritual Director Bishop Bro.
Eddie C. Villanueva and Anniversary Celebration of Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide led by Bro. Mike Z. Velarde, Servant-Leader of El Shaddai DWXI
Prayer Partners Foundation International, Inc. and release of Miracle-Vision
Balloons
3:35 P.M. - 4:00 P.M. - El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation
International, Inc. Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines Gospel Music Ministry
Choir
4:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. - Message: Greetings, Special Sharing headed by His
Excellency Vice-President Jejomar C. Binay, Sr. and other Special Guests
5:00 P.M. - 5:05 P.M. - Introduction of Guest of Honor: Bro. Mike Z. Velarde,
Servant-Leader of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International,
Inc.
5:05 P.M. - 5:30 P.M. - Special Message: His Excellency, President Benigno S.
Aquino III
5:30 P.M. - 5:32 P.M. - Special Song: "Hindi Kita Malilimutan"
5:32 P.M. - 6:10 P.M. - Talk - Holy Spirit: Building Community by Bro. Bo
Sanchez, Chairman and Presiding Elder, Light of Jesus Community
6:10 P.M. - 6:20 P.M. - Angelus, Lord's Prayer and Psalm 91
7:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M. - Arrival of the Pilgrim Image of San Lorenzo Ruiz and St.
Pedro Calungsod at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park
7:30 P.M. - 7:45 P.M. - Arrival of Pope Francis from riding of Helicopter from
the Helipad of Malacanang Park to the Back of Quirino Grandstand
7:45 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. - Joyful Worship in preparation for the Eucharistic
Celebration: El Shaddai Gospel Music Ministry Manila Choir
8:00 P.M. - 11:30 P.M. - Eucharistic Celebration officiated by Pope Francis, as
Main Celebrant, Bishop of Rome and Leader of Worldwide Roman Catholic
Church, and other Roman Catholic Archbishops, Bishops, Deacons, Monsignors,
Pastors, Priests Con-celebrating (Offertory: Villanueva Family)
o Prayers of the Faithful - Various Guests
o Celebration of Sacrament of Matrimony
o Angelus Message
o Angelus Prayer
o Farewell Message by the Pope
o Final Blessing
o Message: His Excellency, President Benigno S. Aquino III
11:30 P.M. - 12:00 A.M. - Special Anniversary Message by Bishop Teodoro C.
Bacani, Jr., Bishop-Emeritus, Diocese of Novaliches and Over-all Spiritual
Director of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International, Inc.
Monday, October 27, 2014
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12:00 A.M. - 12:30 A.M. - Cultural Show and Fireworks Display with El
Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International,
Inc. Bagumbayan, Taguig City Chapter Gospel Music Ministry Choir
o Candle-Light with El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation
International, Inc. Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines Chapter Gospel
Music Ministry
2:30 A.M. - 3:15 A.M. - Documentary about the history of big four largest
religious groups: Jesus Miracle Crusade International Ministry, Jesus is Lord
Church and El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International, Inc. plus
photos and video clips of Jesus the Healer from 1984 to 2014, Weekly El Shaddai
Gathering from 1992 to 2014
3:15 A.M. - 4:00 A.M. - Candle-Lighting Ceremony in preparation of Healing
Message
4:00 A.M. - 7:00 A.M. - Healing Message by Bro. Mike Z. Velarde, Founder
and Servant-Leader of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation
International, Inc.
7:00 A.M. - 7:30 A.M. - Message: His Excellency, President Benigno S.
Aquino III
7:30 A.M. 9:00 A.M. - Breakfast Salo-Salo
President Aquino and His Family, together with other government and church
leaders, will sent off the Pope on the Morning of October 28 at the Old Manila
International Airport. The Pope will fly on to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea for
the Continuation of his four-nation Asian tour.
The Pontiff's five-day visit is actually a fulfillment of a promise he made early last
year when he assumed as pope on March 13, 2013 and he planned by
announcing he will be in Manila in October.
Newsbits (October 23, 2014)
NCCA to serenade Pope.
The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in cooperation with
the Department of Tourism, will welcome the Pope with a special "Harana sa
Papa" by Andion Fernandez, the Coro de San Antonio, the UP Choral Ensemble
and the Festival Choir.
Pope gets grand welcome.
Manila, Philippines, October 24, 2014 - In his fifth trip and his first to this country, Pope
Francis called on the people to "see the world around you through the eyes of Jesus
Himself.
Looking less fit than his previous pastoral and state visit of deceased former Pope John
Paul II 19 years, 11 months and 30 days ago on January 12 to 20, 1995.
Addressing the crowd from a specially-built stage on the tarmac, the pope said, The
Filipino people are never far from my mind and heart, and I reach out to embrace each
one in esteem and affection.
Pope Francis called on the people to reflect the theme of the anniversary celebration of
Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide: Jesus Saves, Jesus is Alive!
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When the Pope ended his short speech with Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! the crowd went
wild waving handkerchiefs, pennants and flags.
In an unprecedented move, Pope Francis approached the schoolchildren, garbed in native
costumes and who had come to dance for him, instead of boarding the popemobile as
scheduled.
Security measures went awry as people took the opportunity to move near the pope and
receive the blessing. Finally boarding the specially build vehicle an hour after he arrived,
the Pope took a Moment to raise his hands before members of the joint Vatican and
Presidential Security Group guards closed the door.
Until he arrived at the Papal Nunciature 50 minutes later, the aging pontiff continued to
wave to the throngs who braved the heat to greet him along Roxas Boulevard, Quirino
Avenue and Taft Avenue.
Throngs of Roman Catholic faithful waved flags and shouted "Viva Il Papa!" as the
pontiff made his way to the Apostolic Nunciature, his official residence for his five-day
stay in Manila.
Travelling along the designated route from the Old Manila International Airport in Pasay
City to the Nunciature in Taft Avenue, Manila the 76-year-old Pope was met each time
with huge crowds who circled his specially made, bullet-proof "popemobile". So thick
were the crowds that what would have been a 15-minute trip stretched to 50 minutes. In
some areas, the crowd may have 30 to 40 deep, barely allowing the Papal convoy
passage.
On his arrival, the Pope addressed the youth and invited them to [s]ee the world
around you with the eyes of Jesus himself! The Gospel says that when he saw the crowds,
he had compassion for them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without
a shepherd.
The Pope had arrived as scheduled at 2:57 p.m. on board an Air Alitalia Airbus. He
paused to greet the Airport crowd before being accompanied down from the plain by Luis
Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Archbishop of Manila and Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto, Papal
Nuncio to the Philippines.
The Pope was met by President Bengino S. Aquino III and his sisters, Maria Elena
Aquino-Cruz, Aurora Corazon Aquino-Abellada, Victoria Elisa Aquino-Dee and Kristina
Bernadette Aquino-Yap, who were the first to greet them officially.
The National Anthems of the Republic of the Philippines and Vatican City State were
played as he went through the cordon of honor and greeted Filipino officials and
members of the diplomatic corps.
Among those on hand to welcome Pope Francis on his first visit were Philippine Vice-
President Jejomar C. Binay, Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa, Jr., Senate President
Franklin M. Drilon, Speaker Feliciano R. Belmonte, Jr., Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert
F. del Rosario and Philippine Ambassador to Vatican Mercedes Arrastia Tuason.
Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Manila City Mayor Joseph Estrada and Pampanga 2nd
District Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo were also among his first welcomers.

WELCOME CEREMONY: ADDRESS OF HIS HOLINESS, POPE FRANCIS (Ninoy
Aquino International Airport, Pasay City, Metro Manila, Thursday, October 23, 2014)
Dear President Aquino, Dear People of the Philippines,
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1. I thank you, Mister President, for your kind words of welcome, full of the warmth and
hospitality with which Filipinos traditionally welcome their guests. I greatly appreciate
all that you and your Government have done to make this visit possible. For a long time I
have looked forward to stepping on to Philippine soil once more. The Filipino people are
never far from my mind and heart, and I reach out to embrace each one with esteem and
affection. We are indeed old friends, ever since assumed as a pope on March 13, 2013.
2. My Brother Bishops, Cardinal Rosales and Cardinal Palma, and all the Bishops
whom I gladly greet in the Lord expressed many times their wish for the Successor of
Peter to share the joy of Filipino Catholics on the Fourth Centenary of the Archdioceses
of Manila, Cebu, Caceres and Nueva Segovia. I am here to celebrate with the Catholic
community of the Philippines four hundred and twenty years of the organized and
hierarchical presence and action of the Church in these Islands. That first evangelization
has produced enduring fruits of Christian life and holiness, of civilizing action, of the
transmission especially through a strong family life of fundamental human and civic
values. As the next presidential administration approaches, we should all be convinced
that those fruits can thrive even more in concerted action by all sectors of society, in the
building of a nation resolutely set on the path of genuine and integral development, and
fully committed to the wellbeing of all its citizens, with special concern for the weakest.
3. The thought of celebrating the annual anniversary of the religious group Jesus is Lord
Church Worldwide, founded by activist and Evangelical Christian religious preacher
Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva, in the Philippines, in Asia, has gladdened me and given
me encouragement. The Spirit of God has led thousands of young men and women here
and they are now filling the streets of Manila with their youthful joy and Christian
witness. A large group of them are right here. I greet each one of you: I warmly embrace
every young person here, all the youth of the Philippines, and all those who have come
from other countries and continents. At Rio, Brazil, during the last World Youth Day
outside Rome, we meditated on the "new life" which comes from Jesus Christ: "I came
he said that they may have life, and have it abundantly"(Io. 10, 10). Now, here in
Manila, we gather to hear him say: "As the Father sent me, so am I sending you" (Ibid.
20, 21). During these days we shall reflect on and pray about what these words mean for
each one of you, for the young people of the end of the Twentieth Century, the young
people of the Third Christian Millennium.
4. To all Filipino people, to all gathered for the Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide
Anniversary Festival, I make this invitation: See the world around you with the eyes of
Jesus himself! The Gospel says that when he saw the crowds, "he had compassion for
them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd" (Matthew
chapter 9 verse 36). The Good News of Gods love and mercy the word of truth, justice
and peace which alone can inspire a life worthy of Gods sons and daughters must be
proclaimed to the ends of the earth. The Church and the world look to young people for
new light, new love, a new commitment to meeting the great needs of humanity.
The people gathered in Manila for the annual anniversary celebration of the religious
group "Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide" know this. The Church in the Philippines
knows that it has a special vocation to bear witness to the Gospel in the heart of Asia.
Guided by Divine Providence, your historic destiny is to build a "civilization of love", of
brotherhood and solidarity, a civilization which will be perfectly at home among the
ancient cultures and traditions of the whole Asian continent.
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5. Mister President, members of the Government, and distinguished representatives of the
Filipino people: the Church and the political community work on different levels and are
mutually independent, but they serve the same human beings (cfr. Gaudium et Spes, 76).
In that service there is ample room for dialogue, cooperation and mutual support. You
have a very valid and specifically Philippine model of cooperation for development in
The Social Pact, formally signed in March 1993. I pray that the "new solidarity" which
The Social Pact espouses will be a striking success for the good of the Filipino people,
and for the pride and glory of the Nation as a beacon of peace and harmony in Asia.
6. Cardinal Tagle, Cardinal Palma, Brother Bishops, Deacons, Filipino Brothers and
Sisters in Christ: I look forward to celebrating with you in faith the great things done in
the Church and by the Church in these Islands over the last four centuries. Together we
shall pray that God may continue to protect and guide his pilgrim People in the
Philippines!
God bless the Philippines! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!
The following day, October 24, 2014, the Pontiff met with President Benigno S. Aquino
III at Malacaang and later celebrated Mass for the 233 delegates of the International
Youth Forum at Central Seminary Chapel of the UST. He also gave a 20-minute speech
to some 200,000 cheering students and academicians gathered at UST Grandstand and
Parade Grounds.

I see that it is my great privilege to be here, to be here and discover anew this
phenomenon I knew before, and today I know better, the Pontiff said.
Traffic Re-Routing Plan for October 24, 2014 Papal Visit 2014 and 36th
Anniversary Celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide
Between 7:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., President Quirino Avenue and A. Lacson from Taft
Avenue to Dapitan will be closed to vehicular traffic. Motorists are advised to take the
following alternative routes:

1. Vehicles along Taft Avenue going to Roxas Boulevard are advised to take
both San Andres and Vito Cruz Streets.
2. From 7:30 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., northbound vehicles along President
Quirino Avenue going to A. Lacson (Governor Forbes) are advised to take
San Andres Street or Vito Cruz Street, then northwards at Taft Avenue and
take Rizal Avenue or Quezon Boulevard to their areas of destination.
3. Southbound vehicles using the A. Lacson (Governor Forbes) - President
Quirino Avenue towards the Taft Avenue way, are advised to take the
Quezon Boulevard - Taft Avenue Route.

Also on the same day from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Espana fronting UST from P.
Noval to A. Lacson will be closed to Public Utility Vehicles. Only Northbound PUJ's
and PUB's are advised to take P. Paredes Street towards Sergio Loyola. Southbound
PUJ's and PUB's will be re-routed to Don Castillas, Don Quijote and Maria Cristina
Streets enroute to the Laong-Laan-Andalucia-Quezon Boulevard route.

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Ordinary motorists, participants or devotees during the Papal Visit may help decongest
heavy traffic areas or ask any form of assistance from the

OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN HON. ATTY. FRANCIS N. TOLENTINO - 882-
4154 to 74 loc. 205; 207
OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY CHAIRMAN Usec. ALEX RAMON Q.
CABANILLA - 882-4154 loc. 282
TRAFFIC ENGINEERING CENTER Dir. Noemie T. Recio Director III - 882-
0858
One-on-one: President Aquino scores point with the Pope.
Manila, Philippines, October 25, 2014 - President Benigno S. Aquino III won points
with Pope Francis when he talked on his social reform agenda - programs meant to uplift
the lives of the poor - during the brief meeting at Malacanang on October 24.
The President informed the Pontiff of his commitment to help disadvantaged sectors of
society - particularly in the 19 poorest provinces - hand-in-hand with the continuing
economic progress of the country.
This was their second encounter since Mr. Aquino visited the Pope at his summer
residence at Castel Gandolfo, a few miles from Rome.
The Papal motorcade was slowed down by a thick crowd that lined-up the street from
Magsaysay Boulevard near Nagtahan Bridge up to Gate 7 of the Palace near St. Jude
Church.
The Pope was expected to arrive at the Palace by 8:50 a.m., but he came at 9:10 a.m.
The Pope and his entourage were met by the President and his sisters Ballsy, Pinky, Viel
and Kris. The Pope went up the stairway, instead of taking the elevator prepared for him.
The Pontiff and the President had a 20-minute one-on-one meeting at the Music Room.
During their meeting, the Pope reiterated his special affection for the Filipino People
which he has demonstrated by personally choosing Manila as venue for the Visit.
The Pope also entrusted the Basilica of Santa Prudenziana to the Filipino Community of
Rome.
Mr. Aquino informed the Pontiff that the Government had extended the franchise of
DZRV Radio Veritas 846, the Philippine Roman Catholic free-to-air commercial AM
radio broadcast station for another 30 years (2014-2044).
I also conveyed the Filipino people's admiration for the commitment and courage shown
by His Holiness when he installed on March 13, 2013, despite his installation day as Pope
of the Roman Catholic Church after the resignation of former Pope Benedict the 16
th
on
February 11, 2013, the President said.
He said he also briefed the Holy Father of the Government's Development Assurance
Program fund and firm resolve and desire for peace with insurgents and rebels.
I assured His Holiness that the Philippine Government is determined to keep all doors
open for our peace progress to succeed and that the Government recognizes that the Basis
of Authentic Peace is the promotion of Human Dignity through Social Justice, the
President said.
Toward the end of their Meeting, Mr. Aquino gave a set of gifts that included a solid,
narra woodcarving of the Virgin and child surrounded by children of all races designed
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by artist Manuel Baldemor, a bronze statue of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz and a copy of the
President's latest book entitled: "From Growth to Modernization."
For his part, the Pope presented the President with a mosaic painting of Jesus. While the
Pope and the President were meeting, the Papal Delegation led by held a bilateral
meeting led by Foreign Affairs Alberto del Rosario, Jr. and Executive Secretary Pacquito
Jojo Ochoa, Jr.
The Pope had a private audience with the Members of the Aquino Family at the main
conference room. They included
The First Family had their picture taken with the Pope. The Pope was then introduced to
the Members of the Cabinet led by Vice-President Jejomar C. Binay, Sr.
While descending at the stairway, the Pope was attended but held on the railing. The
Papal Entourage left the Palace at 10:10 A.M.
Before boarding the Popemobile, the Pope gave the President a firm handshake and
waved to swarms of the cheering Malacanang employees and mediamen.
Second day for Pope fever.
Manila, Philippines, October 25, 2014 - Filipino enthusiasm for Pope Francis remained
unabated yesterday as devout thousands flocked to the University of Santo Tomas, the
oldest Catholic and only pontifical university in Asia.
Francis loves you, the Pontiff told an estimated 300,000 flag-waving, cheering
Filipinos, many of whom had been waiting in the broiling heat for over six hours.
I hear and I feel, a smiling but visibly drawn Pope Francis told the faithful after they
had repeatedly chanted, Francis 1, Francis 1, we love you.
Earlier, UST Rector Fr. Herminio Dagohoy has expressed the sentiments of the crowd
and said, We hope that the love you, feel for us has doubled in intensity because this is
your visit.
Karina Torralba, speaking for the visit, assured the Pope that the people have not
abandoned the Church.
We seek you, Holy Father, together with your clergy, she said. Continue to help us
strengthen our faith and to live with conviction our Christian faith.
The pontiff continued to endear himself to the people as he used every opportunity to
make himself visible to them, even climbing the ramp to the sage despite his injury.
To shouts of Mabuhay! and Viva il Papa! the Pope commended the Filipino People
for their joyous hospitality in celebration of the anniversary of Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide.
I am very grateful, he said repeatedly.
He said it was a great privilege to address the Thomasian community and that he has a
special affinity to UST, having visited the Campus twice.
As early as 4:00 a.m. yesterday, hundreds of Catholic faithful had gathered at the
downtown university in anticipation of the Popes visit after the main gate was forced
open.
Although the seven-hectare football field were the rally held a capacity of only 150,000
more and more people crammed their way in. Nearby buildings and a pedestrian overpass
were brimming with those who could no longer enter the campus.
Despite the long wait and huge turn-out, the rally was generally peaceful.
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A New Hero on Campus for the multiracial group.
MANI LA, Philippines, October 25, 2014 I am very anxious to meet you personally
after the Celebration to be near every one of you from so many different languages,
countries and nations of the world...
This was the response of Pope Francis to the hundreds of beaming to the hundreds of
beaming and jubilant delegates of the International Youth Forum (IYF) who attended the
multi-lingual mass he celebrated at the University of Santo Tomas on October 24, 2014.
The Gospel was read. The first reading, followed by the singing of Responsible Psalm
while the second reading was in English.
The Pope speaks and writes in nine languages:
Filipino
Ilokano
Ibaloi
Ibanag
Pangasinense
Kampanganan
Central Bikol
Romblomanon
Masbateo
Palawano
Hiligaynon
Capiznon
Aklan
Cebuano
Waray-Waray
Maranao
Davawenyo
Butuanon
Surigaonon
Standard Chinese (Mandarin Pinyin)
Jin Chinese
ZhangjiakouHohhot dialect
Hong Kong Cantonese Jyupting
Gan Chinese
Korean
Japanese
Russian
Tatar
Chuvash
Bashkir
Chechenm
Ukrainian
For an hour, the Pontiff remained on his feet to bless and greet each IYF delegate in their
respective national costumes that queued and thronged down the aisles of the Saint
Thomas Aquinas Chapel of the Central Seminary of the University of Santo Tomas.
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Touched, many were in tears as they kissed and hugged the Holy Father Pope Francis,
who gave them his fatherly kiss, a caress and even brushed away their tears.
Simultaneously, the Chapel reverberated with songs in different languages, brought in by
the delegates from their countries.
But the familiar sound of a Filipino harp stood out, giving an upbeat Filipino flavor to the
whole affair.
I see the People in the Philippines very joyous, the Pope Adlibbed in his homily to the
delight of his young audience.
Why are they so joyous, full of Joy? I am convinced you Filipino people are joyous, so
full of joy because you have received the Good Newsthose who received the Good
News (are) joyous (You give) joy to God, today you are giving the joy to the Pope.
You are also giving joy to the Cardinals, to the Bishops, the priests, the monsignors, the
deacons, and the pastors and to all of you. And I and all of us, we are so grateful to the
Filipinos for the joyous hospitality As my personal conviction, it was so important for
me to hear these words: I am with you. Be not afraid.
At the UST Grandstand
Despite the long morning audience at the University of Santo Tomas Chapel, the Pontiff
skipped his lunch and proceeded to the UST Grandstand at 1:30 p.m. to address the
University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) member-school students and
alumni who had been on vigil since 5:00 a.m.
By the time the ceremonies began the crowd swelled from 80,000 to 300,000 estimated to
be twice over the 150,000 expected turnout.
While alighting from the pope mobile a cheering crowd began unfurling banners, flags
and streamers and chanting Francis, we love you.
The Pope grabbed the microphone by the rostrum and quipped, Francis, he loves you!
I hear and feel, the pope said.
He sought the help of the UAAP member-schools students and alumni in saving their
own generations from the futility, emptiness and frustration of modern society.
Traffic Re-Routing Plan for October 25, 2014 (Papal Visit and 36th Anniversary
Celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide)
On October 25, 2014, Roxas Boulevard (from Buendia Avenue to Anda Circle) and
President Quirino Avenue (from Taft Avenue to Roxas Boulevard) will be closed to
vehicular traffic from 7:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. Motorists are advised to take the following
alternate routes:
1. Northbound vehicles using Roxas Boulevard from Buendia Avenue to Bonifacio
Drive are advised to take A. Mabini, Taft Avenue or South Super Highway routes.
2. Southbound vehicles traversing Roxas Boulevard are advised to take Taft Avenue
or South Superhighway.
3. South Harbor-bound vehicles will have to wait 30 minutes due to the closure of
vehicular traffic along Aduana, Intramuros or take Jones Bridge - C.M. Recto and
Bonifacio Drive route towards Aduana.
4. Luneta-bound vehicles are only up to P. Burgos-Taft-Avenue-T.M. Kalaw
intersections/junctions.
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On the same day (October 25), General Luna Street (from Aduana to P. Burgos) will be
closed to vehicular traffic from 11:30 A.M. to 2:30 P.M. and motorists are advised to take
other parallel streets or take Aduana-P. Burgos-Taft Avenue.
The Quirino Grandstand Area will definitely be closed to all vehicular traffic from 7:00
A.M. to 9:00 P.M.
Ordinary motorists, participants or devotees during the Papal Visit may help decongest
heavy traffic areas or ask any form of assistance from the
OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN HON. ATTY. FRANCIS N. TOLENTINO - 882-
4154 to 74 loc. 205; 207
OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY CHAIRMAN Usec. ALEX RAMON Q.
CABANILLA - 882-4154 loc. 282
TRAFFIC ENGINEERING CENTER Dir. Noemie T. Recio Director III - 882-
0858
Manila See marks 420th year.
Manila, Philippines, October 24, 2014 - A con-celebrated mass to be led by visiting
Pope Francis will mark the 420th Year of the Creation of the Roman Catholic
Archdiocese of Manila on October 25, 2014. The mass will be held at the sprawling 10-
hectare lot located at the back of the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC)
within the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex along Roxas Boulevard, starting at
8:00 A.M. As main celebrant, the Pontiff will be assisted by co-celebrants: Manila
Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Manila Archbishop-Emeritus Gaudencio
Cardinal Rosales, Nueva Segovia Archbishop-Emeritus Ernesto Antolin Salgado, Nueva
Segovia Archbishop Emeritus Edmundo M. Abaya, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Mario M.
Perlata, Tuguegarao Archbishop Sergio L. Utleg, Tuguegarao Archbishop-Emeritus
Diosdado A. Talamayan, Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop-Emeritus Oscar Cardinal V.
Cruz, Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates B. Villegas, San Fernando Archbishop
Emeritus Paciano Cardinal B. Aniceto, San Fernando Archbishop Florentino G. Lavarias,
Lipa Archbishop Ramon C. Arguelles, Nueva Caceres Archbishop Rolando O. Joven Tria
Tirona, Capiz Archbishop Jose F. Advincula, Jaro Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo, Cebu
Archbishop-Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal J. Vidal, Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma, Palo
Archbishop-Emeritus Pedro R. Dean, Jr., Palo Archbishop John F. Du, Davao
Archbishop-Emeritus Fernando R. Capalla, Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles,
Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Cardinal B. Quevedo, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop-
Emeritus Jesus B. Tuquib, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, Ozamiz
Archbishop Jesus A. Dosado, Zamboanga Archbishop Romulo T. Dela Cruz, Singapore
Archbishop William Goh Seng Chye, Singapore Archbishop-Emeritus Nicholas Gerald
Chia, Kuala Lumpur Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim, Kuala Lumpur Archbishop-
Emeritus Anthony Soter Fernandez, Kuala Lumpur Archbishop-Emeritus Murphy
Pakiam, Kuching Archbishop John Ha Tiong Hock, Kuching Archbishop-Emeritus Peter
Chung Hoan Ting, Kota Kinabalu Archbishop John Wong Soo Kau, Kota Kinabalu
Archbishop-Emeritus John Lee Hiong Fun-Yit Yaw, Jakata Archbishop Ignatius Suharyo
Hardjoatmodjo, Jakarta Archbishop-Emeritus Julius Cardinal Riyadi Darmaatmadja and
Apostolic Nunciature of the Holy See to the Philippines Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto.

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Some one million people coming from all over the Philippines, Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide members and other foreign nationals are expected to attend the first of two
public Masses, Pope Francis will officiate during his five-day pastoral visit to the
Philippines.

The second public mass for the grand annual anniversary celebration and prayer assembly
of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide and birthday celebration of ZOE Broadcasting
Network, Inc. Board Chairman and Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder,
international president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva at 6:00
p.m., October 26 at the Luneta Park in front of the Quirino Grandstand.

In the crowd will be some 4,000 religious including members of the Catholic Bishops
Conference of the Philippines, Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences and Roman
Catholic archbishops, bishops, monsignors, pastors, deacons from foreign countries,
priests, diocesan and religious.

Government officials and their families, led by President Benigno S. Aquino III are
expected to hear the Mass. The Holy Father will arrive at the site 15 minutes before the
start of the Mass and will bless the crowd on his way to the Altar.

The Prayer of the Faithful will be read in English. Only 70 chosen faithful will receive
Holy Communion personally from the Pope.
Message and Final Document of FABC Plenary
The 11th Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences
(FABC) will issue a message to the Churches and Christians in Asia at the
conclusion of the October 20 to 27 meeting.
The text refers to the role and importance of the Eucharist in the life of Christians
in Asia. Christians in Asia are encouraged in the unity given by the Eucharist to
cross boundaries of religion and race, culture and language, caste and class,
as well as to forge bonds of fellowship within and also with the people of other
religions and cultures.
The message encourages families to listen to the Word of God regularly,
especially on Sundays. A culture of listening to the Word of God is encouraged
as a basis for authentic Christian spirituality.
A longer final document on the theme of the assembly Living the Eucharist in
Asia was agreed upon in principle, but will be published in a final version at a
later stage.
Fourth centenary
During this visit, Pope Francis celebrated Mass to mark the 420th Anniversary of
the Archdiocese of Manila and the Dioceses of Cebu, Caceres and Nueva
Segovia at the Philippine International Convention Center grounds in Pasay City
on October 25.
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Pope prays for nation's poor, Yolanda victims
Manila, Philippines, October 26, 2014 - Pope Francis voiced concern for the millions of
Filipinos living in poverty and the victims of natural disasters as hundreds of thousands
of people gathered yesterday for a Mass beside manila bay in an outpouring of religious
fervor.
In the midst of our joy on this occasion we cannot forget our Filipino brothers and
sisters who live in difficult social and economic conditions, and those who are trying to
recover from the natural disasters which have occurred with a certain frequency in recent
times, he told the crowd. The Pontiff, celebrating the first public mass of his four-day
visit from October 23 to 27, 2014, singled out the victims of the November 8, 2013 Super
Typhoon Yolanda whose led to death of at least 5,000 people.

I ask God to strengthen and comfort those who have lost their loved ones, their homes,
their livelihood, and I earnestly hope that their appeals for further help and solidarity will
not go unheard, he said.

Half of the 100 Million Population of the Philippines is considered to be living below the
poverty line, and the country is regularly hit by natural disasters like tropical storms and
earthquakes.

The Pope cautioned people to confuse the church in the Philippines, Asia's only
Christian-majority nation with "some merely human or humanitarian organization."

Official estimates put the crowd at more than a million people but witnesses said it
appeared much smaller.

If the crowd was smaller, than Roman Catholic Church leaders of the Philippines had
hoped for, it made up for the lack of numbers with fervor at the sight of the Pope.

MABUHAY!

At one point, the 76-year-old pontiff replied to the cries of Mabuhay ang Santo Papa
(Long Live Holy Father) with his own Mabuhay ang Filipino People from the High
Altar specially constructed with a Pyramid Canopy.

At the end of the Mass on the big open area beside a gaudy fairground along Manila Bay,
hundreds of people descended on the flower-decked platform, after the Pope had left, to
snatch souvenirs. Children tried out his throne-like chair.

Security was intense for the Mass marking the 420th Anniversary of the Roman Catholic
Archbishop of Manila and other Regions of the Philippine Islands after they were
conquered by Spain.

Even the Popes own Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin was frisked before being
allowed to join archbishops, bishops, cardinals, deacons, monsignors, reverend fathers,
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pastors throughout Asia, Oceania, North America, South America, Europe and Africa for
the Mass.

He smiled broadly as he was checked for weapons with a metal detector, part of the
security measures imposed after the Philippine Police arrested at least two people
suspected of plotting to harm the Pope.

The Pontiff was lifted to the top of the flower-decked platform for the Mass by a
Philippine Airlines Airport Hoist.

And he paid tribute to the spiritual joy of the Filipino people - expressed in their
traditional way through song.

I thank the Filipino people, the Wonderful Filipino people, the Pontiff told the cheering
crowd. My heart is going out to all of them, to all the Filipino men and women, to all the
men and women from all countries of the world.

Yesterday, October 24 was the busiest day of the Pope's five-day visit to the Philippines,
which began Thursday, October 23. Following the Morning Mass, he met with Asian
bishops, attended the 45th foundation anniversary of the Catholic short-wave radio
station Radio Veritas Asia and visited people during an evening vigil at Quirino
Grandstand, Rizal Park.

Vatican sources said the 76-year-old pontiff would also broadcast a message to the 1.2
billion people of China, whose government has refused to allow Roman Catholics to
acknowledge papal supremacy for six decades.
Go and make disciples of all nations
Pope Francis message at the Mass yesterday at the Philippine International Convention
Center.
"Full authority has been given to me both in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make
disciples of all the nations (Matthew 28, 18-19).
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
1. These words from todays Gospel take on a special meaning in the context of the
Jubilee which, together with the World Youth Day, the Church in the Philippines is
celebrating. Four hundred and twenty years ago, in 1595, the first Ecclesiastical Province
was set up on these Islands: the Archdiocese of Manila and the Dioceses of Cebu,
Caceres and Nueva Segovia.
I greet the whole Filipino people, wonderful Filipino people. I greet all their Pastors. I
thank Cardinal Tagle for these kind words of welcome. I greet also His Excellency
President Benigno S. Aquino III and the Authorities.
The establishment of a Metropolitan Church in the Philippines bore witness to the fact
that the work of the first missionaries had borne abundant fruit. The process of planting
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and building up the Church had already taken place in other parts of the world, especially
in the European countries. In the case of my own Poland, it had taken place in the year
1000. Later, the same thing happened in the countries of South America, Central America
and North America. So it happened and continues to happen in Africa, in Australia and
throughout Oceania, and on the continent of Asia. All this has a meaning that is not just a
question of ecclesiastical administration. The Church is a living body. Like a living body,
at a certain point she reaches a stage of maturity which makes it possible for a particular
Church to give life to other Churches like itself.
Plantatio Ecclesiae. Mysterium plantationis Ecclesiae. Paulus plantavit; Apollo rigavit.
Deus autem incrementum dedit. I see that Filipino people are understanding very well
Latin.
2. Four hundred years ago the Church in Manila became the Metropolitan See for the
Church in Cebu, Caceres and Nueva Segovia. In the space of these four centuries the
number of the particular Churches in the Philippines has greatly increased. Those first
four Dioceses have each become a Metropolitan See, and alongside them numerous
particular Churches have developed and continue to grow. In this part of the world it is
the Philippines which enjoys the greatest wealth of ecclesial life. Plantatio fecunda,
fecundissima.
Dear brothers and sisters, we have come together here to give thanks to God precisely for
this grace, great grace of God. Not just you who have come from all over the Philippines,
but also representatives of the Churches throughout Asia and the Far East. As I see also
many Cardinals from Europe, and from Africa, from Asia. All together we greet the
delegates of the other Christian Churches and Communities, as well as the representatives
of other religions. For me it is a great joy to be here with you on this day, as Bishop of
Rome and Successor of Saint Peter. Peter was the first in plantatio Ecclesiae in Rome
and from Rome. Plantatio Ecclesiae in Manila, in the Philippines, Peter, Successor of
Peter, also a grace. Together let us praise God for the grace of this Four Hundredth
Anniversary. In one great chorus let us commend the Church in the Philippines and the
whole Nation to Gods Providence: "Save your people, Lord, and bless your
inheritance"(Ps. 28 (27), 9).
In the midst of our joy on this occasion we cannot forget our Filipino brothers and sisters
who live in difficult social and economic conditions, and those who are trying to recover
from the natural disasters which have occurred with a certain frequency in recent times. I
am thinking in particular of the victims of the Pinatubo eruption and its after-effects. I ask
God to strengthen and comfort those who have lost their loved ones, their homes, their
livelihood, and I earnestly hope that their appeals for further help and solidarity will not
go unheard. And I think also there are many Filipinos in Rome, in Italy and through the
world. I greet all of them. They are also the same inheritance. They are also celebrating
this centenary.
3. Today, we cannot fail to remember the first messengers of the Good News who came to
these Islands. Their origins were in Spain, for it was above all the Iberian Peninsula
which gave rise to that great missionary thrust which followed the discovery of America
by Christopher Columbus. At that same time other brave explorers were travelling south
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and east, round Africa by way of the Cape of Good Hope, through the Indian Ocean,
towards Asia and the Far East. Those remarkable voyages opened up for the Church vast
new horizons for her evangelizing mission. It was in that context that the evangelization
of the Philippines began.
It is significant that the first Episcopal See in Manila was originally attached to Mexico,
in spite of the enormous distance involved in crossing the Pacific Ocean. Clearly that was
a temporary measure, until the first independent Ecclesiastical Province was erected in
the Philippines, precisely in 1595. After hesitation at the beginning, the missionary
Church of that early period gradually became more truly Filipina as the number of native-
born priests and Bishops increased.
Looking back today on that past, we must express our thankfulness to God for those
pioneers who laid the foundations of the Church in this land: for the Augustinians who
were the first to arrive, followed by the Franciscans, the Jesuits, the Dominicans and the
Augustinian Recollects. The early missionaries who sought to defend the native peoples
from the abuses of the conquistadores and encomenderos found a vigorous leader in the
Dominican Fray Domingo de Salazar, the first Bishop of Manila. As early as 1582 he
summoned the first Synod, which decided many questions regarding conquest, settlement
and administration in accordance with the principles of the faith and Christian morality.
A wonderful process, a wonderful history, history of the Church, history of salvation,
history of Filipino people. All of us, all of you Filipinos today, you are the inheritance,
the successors in this great process, great process.
4. Saint Paul writes to the Ephesians: "May the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father
of glory, grant you a spirit of wisdom and insight... that you may know the great hope to
which he has called you... and the immeasurable scope of his power in us who believe"
(Eph. 1, 17-19). What Saint Paul wished for the Christian community at Ephesus is what
I wish today for the Catholic people of the Philippines. I pray above all that you will
appreciate ever more fully the grace of your Christian vocation as explained by the
Second Vatican Council in its Constitution on the Church (Cfr. Lumen Gentium, 40).
This vocation has its beginning and source in Christ himself. All Christians live by the
inexhaustible riches given to us in him. Saint John of the Cross, the great Spanish mystic
who lived just at the time when the evangelization of the Philippines was getting
underway, reminds us of this fact. He wrote in the Spiritual Canticle: "(Christ) is like a
rich mine with many recesses containing treasures, and no matter how men try to fathom
them the end is never reached" (Saint John of the Cross, Spiritual Canticle, st. 36). Christ
is so rich!
In the work of the missionaries and in their service to the people, the power of Christ,
Crucified and Risen, was being manifested the power of Christ, who is seated at the
right hand of the Father and who, as Redeemer and Bridegroom of the Church, works
through her in the Holy Spirit. It is very important not to confuse the Church with some
merely human or humanitarian organization. The Church lives and grows in Christ and
through Christ. All her members, in their thoughts and actions, are called to bear witness
to the living presence of the Redeemer.
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5. The Father, as we read in the Letter to the Ephesians, "has put all things under Christs
feet and has made him thus exalted, head of the Church, which is his body" (Eph. 1,22-
23). That is why, after his Resurrection, Christ sent out the Apostles with the
words: "Full authority has been given to me both in heaven and on
earth" (Matthew 28:18). This saving power of the Redeemer is what sustained the
missionaries who came to the Philippines in the sixteenth century. This same power is
what has preserved the sons and daughters of your nation in living their lives as
Christians, in forming Christian families, in educating your children in the faith. By doing
all of this, your forefathers laid the foundations of the only predominantly Catholic
country in this part of the world, a region which still presents an enormous challenge for
evangelization. In time, children of this land, as priests and Bishops, took over full
pastoral responsibility, while others filled the ranks of the congregations of men and
women religious, so that the Church which is "the fullness of him who fills the universe
in all its parts"(Eph. 1, 23) would be truly catholic and universal, but also truly immersed
in the life and culture of these Islands.
6. Today therefore is a day of great joy: rejoice in great gratitude to the Lord. The
Responsorial Psalm contains an appropriate invitation: "All you people, clap your hands,
shout to God with cries of gladness... For the king of all the earth is God... God reigns
over all the nations" (Psalm 47(46),2.8-9). The faith which springs from the Gospel
transforms the life both of individuals and of nations. For four hundred years the Church
has served as a leaven and as a kind of soul for Philippine society, most of all by her
healing and elevating impact on respect for the human person, and by the way in which
she strengthens families and communities, and imbues everyday activity with a deeper
meaning and reference to God (Cfr. Gaudium et Spes, 40). Inspired by their faith, Filipino
Catholics have begun countless initiatives for the good of society, in the fields of
education, healthcare and service of all kinds. Out of the Churchs religious mission
during these four hundred years there came a light and an energy which have served to
structure and consolidate the human community according to the divine law
(Cfr. Gaudium et Spes, 42). This is the source of our joy. This is the source for our joy
and our gratitude to the Lord, the Almighty Father. This is the reason for the Philippine
Churchs joy, visible in this celebration, with all the color and vitality of your culture and
Christian traditions. But this is also your task and responsibility: to remain faithful to
what has been handed down and to build on it, so that Gods law will abide in your hearts
and his blessings will increasingly be poured out on your nation.
A great boost to our joy is given by the people of the World Youth Day who have come to
Manila from every corner of the Philippines, from many parts of Asia and the Far East,
and from the other continents. They are the sign and the confirmation of your living faith.
My heart is going to all of them, to all the Filipino young men and women, and to all
young men and women of the whole world, of so many countries of the world...
European, Asiatic, Africa, America, North America, Latin America, Central America,
Australia, all the continents.
7. The joy of the human heart springs from the presence of God in us, in our hearts.
Isaiah writes: "All who... hold to my covenant I will bring to my holy mountain and make
joyful in my house of prayer". The spiritual joy of Gods people in the Philippines has
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two fundamental points of reference: the house of prayer and the holy mountain. First,
the community gathers in "the house of prayer"(Is. 56, 6-7) which is the home, or a
chapel, a parish church or a cathedral to celebrate the mysteries of our redemption and
to profess the one, holy, catholic and apostolic faith. From there Gods pilgrim people go
forth to ascend "the holy mountain": marching forward in hope towards the fullness of
Gods kingdom, all the time striving to make present and operative at every level of your
personal and national life that kingdom of holiness, justice, peace and solidarity. So two
points: the house of prayer and the holy mountain, being together and ascending with
Christ into heaven, into his kingdom. All that is inspired by the liturgical texts as of
todays liturgy.
8. Filipino People of God: at every Mass you hear the call to lift up your hearts: Sursum
corda!
Lift up your heart, holy Church, which in four centuries has built a solid dwelling place
for God in these Islands! So numerous islands, Filipino islands, wonderful islands!
Whole generations have gone up from here to the Holy Mountain, where the God of glory
dwells. The sign of this ascent are your Filipino Saints, beginning with Saint Lorenzo
Ruiz whom I had the joy to beatify here in Manila and to canonize in Rome. They remain
closely united with you in the Communion of the Saints. They show you the way to God,
which is the fulfilment of the vocation of each and every human being.
Rejoice Filipino people, holy Church of Manila, Cebu, Caceres, and Nueva
Segovia! Rejoice, every Filipino family, every Filipino Diocese and parish! Rejoice, for it
has pleased the Father to give you the kingdom! This promise of the Father is fulfilled
unceasingly through the power of Christ: to him be honor and glory for ever! Amen.
A long homily, but not too long for this occasion!
Mabuhay, to all Filipino people! Long live!
Very, very, very grateful for this celebration, for this great festivity of the Church in the
Philippines.
Very grateful to almighty God!
Very grateful to all of you!
Viva Manila, Cebu, Caceres, Nueva Segovia!
Thank you very much!
Mabuhay!
Sister Faith Abano: Please all stand.
In a private meeting with members of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the
Philippines, the Pope made the strongest comments defending the Catholic ban on
artificial contraceptives. He also condemned the injustice in the country and noted the
increasing gap between rich and poor.
When powerful interests promote policies which are against the moral law inscribed on
the human heart, they offend the dignity of man who is made in the image and likeness of
God, the Pontiff said. In doing so, they undermine the foundations of society itself.
All security and crowd control measures broke down in the pandemonium. Ambulances
and buses with Reverend Fathers including Roman Catholic Parish Priests, Pastors, and
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Parochial Vicars, Roman catholic archbishops, bishops, deacons and monsignors were
blocked more than an hour before the Mass was start.
RAINBOW MARCH: Color-coding in Sunday rally (By Michael Lim Ubac and
Dave Veridiano)
PARTICIPANTS of the pro-democracy rally set on Sunday, October 26 in Makati City
will carry the colors of the rainbow in keeping with the multisectoral nature of the mass
action.

At a press forum yesterday in Makati, organizers said a color-coding scheme was
needed for easy identification and as a symbol of the diversity of the Filipinos' beliefs and
aspirations that would be unified at the rally.

Under the scheme, the rally colors are:
Green for farmers and environmental groups and students and alumni of De La
Salle University-Manila
Blue for students and alumni of Ateneo de Manila University
Maroon for students and alumni of University of the Philippines-Diliman
Red for progressive and militant groups and students and alumni of University of
the East-Manila
White for nuns, priests and the laity.
Yellow for the supporters of the late former president Corazon Cojuangco-Aquino
and students and alumni of University of Santo Tomas-Manila
The rally, intended to denounce government moves to amend the Constitution, Marcos-
style cronyism, threats to press freedom, transportation, power and water shortage in
Metro Manila, the crime rate, the rehabilitation after the triple disasters in Mindanao and
Visayas such as the Cagayan de Oro bombing last July 27, the Zamboanga Siege last
September 9, the Bohol Earthquake last October 16, the Super Typhoon Yolanda last
November 8 and the Super Typhoon Glenda last July 16 will be led by animal and
political groups.
Participants will converge at Ayala Avenue corner Paseo de Roxas from two points--the
fire station along Ayala and the Don Bosco Church on Pasay Road. Chito Gascon and
Msgr. Melchor David will serve as grand marshals for the fire station contingent, and Fr.
Robert Reyes, for the Don Bosco contingent.
Earlier, however, Aquino stressed that rally participants could wear any color that pleased
them or best described their ideas or aspirations in upholding the gains of the 1986 Edsa
People-Power uprising.
It's really unity in diversity, said Boy Rellosa, a member of the executive committee of
the Samahan ng Gitnang Puwersa (SaGiP).
In contrast, members of the El Shaddai, who are set to stage an apparent countergathering
on the same day at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila, are expected to wear
their customary white on October 25 to 27, 2014.
The El Shaddai gathering is supposed to mark the birthday celebration of its founder and
servant-leader, Bro. Mike Z. Velarde on August 20, as well as its 30th anniversary last
August 23 to 24 while Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Movement, headed by founder,
international president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva, is celebrating
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his 81st birthday on October 6 and their 36th anniversary celebration on October 25 to
27, during the 5-day pastoral and state visit of Pope Francis here in the Philippines.
Velarde and Villanueva, spiritual advisers of President Benigno Aquino III, have
announced his support for Charter change.
Security
Civilian groups pledged to help police maintain peace and order both at the pro-
democracy rally at Makati, Quezon City and the El Shaddai gathering.
The pledge of support was conveyed yesterday to Chief Supt. Marcelo Garbo Jr., chief of
the National Capital Region Police Office, by leaders of the civilian groups.
Garbo said about 7,000 policemen from various districts would be deployed at the two
events.
Metropolitan police will be on red alert starting today.
The National Police Commission (Napolcom) has directed Deputy Director Edmundo L.
Larroza of the Philippine National Police to finalize security details.
In a letter to Larroza yesterday, Leo S. Magahum, Napolcom vice chair and executive
officer, said the PNP should ensure a balanced enforcement of the law with maximum
tolerance and respect for human rights.
Magahum said exercising fair security measures at the two events would foster unity and
prove the Aquino administration's adherence to democracy.
Dodie Limcauco, co-organizer of the pro-democracy rally, said some 2,000 priests, nuns,
seminarians and members of nongovernment organizations would serve as marshals.
Initially, some 1,000 NGO members had volunteered to serve as guards at the rally.
Limcauco said at a breakfast forum at Ciudad Fernandina in San Juan that the ''tight
guarding'' of their ranks would be implemented in response to unconfirmed reports that
communists planned to bomb the rally site.
The Netherlands-based Jose Maria Sison, chief political consultant of the communist-led
National Democratic Front, had earlier denied such plans.
By spreading in advance the intrigue that communists are out to make trouble, Mr.
Aquino III is revealing his own malicious intent to play the same old dirty tricks that his
mentor Marcos used to play in order to discourage and disrupt mass protest actions and
justify repression, Sison said in a statement.
Limcauco said his group had engaged in a dialogue with a group of communist rebels
who also pledged to join the rally.
(The rebels) have assured us that they will not disrupt peace and order during the rally,
he said without elaborating.
Acrobatics
At the same forum, Msgr. Nico Bautista accused El Shaddai of resorting to ''mental and
verbal acrobatics'' in defending its gathering.
Bautista said the timing of the gathering was very unusual because El Shaddai usually
meets during the weekend.
He also chided Former Novaliches Bishop Teodoro Bacani, El Shaddai's overall spiritual
adviser, for not keeping the group in line with the Church's position against Charter
change.
I don't know why Bishop Bacani is acting like a lawyer for El Shaddai, he said.
Bautista said every Catholic ''should be one in mind and heart with the Church,''
especially on the issue of Charter change.
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The (pro-democracy) rally is about moral issues, particularly the return to power of the
Marcoses and their cronies, he said.
For El Shaddai
Former first lady Imelda Marcos yesterday told reporters that she may attend the El
Shaddai gathering if she's invited.
Why not? It's just a birthday party. But I'd prefer to meet him in private to greet him,
she said.
Imelda was guest speaker at the Manila Hotel launching of two books by the Katotohanan
at Katarungan Foundation Inc. (KKFI), a group of military and government officials who
served during the regime of her late husband, the dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
She expressed support for the administration's move to amend the 1987 Constitution,
saying it was a bogus Charter created by a body composed of members hand-picked by
Aquino.
She also chided Sin and Aquino: ''It's sad that these people who should be promoting
unity are instead dividing the country.''
But she quickly added that Filipinos were free to attend the rally or the El Shaddai
gathering since this is a democratic country.
In a press statement, the KKFI called the Makati rally an elitist exercise, a lot of noise,:
and defended Mr. Aquino IIIs stand on Charter change.
Amendments are for the people to decide on in a plebiscite, and not for a few to pre-
empt by sowing speculative intrigues, the group said.
On the ad boycott on the INQUIRER, the KKFI said: Kung walang sinasanto ang isang
pahayagan, huwag itong umasa ng pagtangkilik (If a newspaper defies everybody, it
shouldn't hope for support).
Free
Members of the House of Representatives are free to decide whether to attend the pro-
democracy rally, Speaker Sonny Belmonte, Jr. said.
But he was quick to qualify that this was only for the House.
I can't say about (those who belong to the ruling Laban ng Masang Pilipino) party.
That's a different matter,'' he said at a press conference yesterday.
Villar said he respected each of his colleagues' decision and pointed out that it was
healthy for an institution of democracy like the House to be debating on the issue of
Charter change.
He said his office would not move to keep LAMP congressmen from joining the rally.
Quezon Rep. Alcala said that while he was opposed to amending the 1987 Constitution,
he would not attend the rally ''to respect the party position on the matter.
Alcala said he was convinced that ''intraparty discussions on Cha-cha have not been
exhausted.

Goma vs Spice Boy
On radio, movie idol Richard Gomez, who is also presidential adviser on youth and
sports, yesterday engaged one of the so-called Spice Boys of Congress in a battle over
young people's hearts and minds.
Gomez raised doubts as to whether organizers of the pro-democracy rally had enlightened
students and youth groups on the issues being raised by critics of the Aquino
administration.
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He dared the other guests--among them Rep. Robert Ace Barbers (Lakas, Surigao del
Norte)--to take full responsibility should violence erupt at the rally and victimize student
participants.
What are you really fighting for? Are you sure that the students and the youth joining
the rally understand the issues you are fighting for? Gomez said in Filipino during the
noontime program ''Paksa'' hosted by Tina Monzon Palma over dzMM.
Also in the panel were rally marshals Father Reyes, also known as the ''running priest,''
and lawyer Gil de los Reyes.
Gomez, who joined the discussion by phone, also warned that the rally could have
negative effects on the business climate.
Barbers countered by telling Gomez that ''we've done our homework'' as far as educating
the youth sector was concerned, through campus forums and mobilization.
He also said it was the Palace who should be blamed regarding the adverse effects on the
economy as ''it's the government who's reviving this divisive issue (of Charter change) in
the first place.''
As to the possible eruption of violence, Barbers said he didn't find such ''rumors'' credible
''since these came from the military.''
Reyes assured Gomez that the rally participants could police their own ranks, and that it
was very remote that they would instigate violence themselves as they would be led by
nuns and priests.
Support
Caloocan councilors yesterday pledged support for the pro-democracy rally despite
Mayor Oscar Malapitans continued refusal to make a stand on the matter.
Cong. Edgar Erice, majority floor leader of the city council and a close ally of Malonzo,
said his participation at the rally was a matter of ''individual conscience.''
''This is not a question of party affiliation now. I will support the rally because I believe
in what it stands for,'' he said.
Erice is organizing a motorcade that will run from the Caloocan High School to Ayala
Avenue. City residents may join the contingent at around 11:45 a.m. on Friday.
Earlier, Mayor and at least three other councilors said they would join the rally.
Councilors Manuel Rayos and Chito Abel, active Church leaders in their respective areas,
are mobilizing religious groups for the motorcade.
LAMP councilors in the city have denied reports that they were intending to join the
rally. They said they were open to Charter change.
In Calapan City, at least 7,000 students, Mangyans, urban poor and Catholic faithful are
expected to join the march cum Roman Catholic Charismatic Holy Mass and worship
and healing prayer rally to be led tomorrow, Sunday, October 26 by Bishop Warlito I.
Cajandig, Roman Catholic Territorial Diocese of Calapan.
The protest action is in response to the call of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the
Philippines to show our opposition to Charter change, threats to press freedom and the
return of cronyism, said Fr. Jimson H. Ruga, an aide of Cajandig and director of the
Service Commission of the Diocese.
Ruga said the protest action would be synchronized with the pro-democracy rally in
Makati.
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Similar demonstrations will be held simultaneously in 50 other cities nationwide. With
reports from J erome Aning, Volt Contreras, Rocky Nazareno, Philip Tubeza, and
Blanche S. Rivera in Manila; and J oel J . J abal, PDI Southern Luzon Bureau
Anniversary's success lies on prayers
The success of the 34th Anniversary of the Jesus is Lord (JIL) Church Worldwide
today, October 26, is ensured by the prayers and intercessions offered to God
worldwide.

From September 1-21, JIL churches established in 200 countries around the world
prayed in unity for God's blessings for the anniversary. In Manila, pastors and
intercessors also held a prayer-on-location yesterday at the Quirino Grandstand,
Luneta, venue of the JIL celebration.

One of the pastors who joined the prayer-on-location, Pastor Amor Robles-Adella
of JIL-PUP, said, My greatest prayer is that a larger percentage of our
population will be reached before the Lord Jesus comes again."

Pastor Lorna Rodriguez of JIL-Bunlo also prayed for the anniversary speaker, Dr.
Morris Cerullo, a world renowned evangelist. The prayer-on-location concluded
with a faith-filled declaration of Jesus is Lord over Luneta Grandstand!

Indeed, that is what we see today here in Luneta! Happy 34th Anniversary, JIL!
PNoy expected to grace JIL 36th anniversary
Manila, Philippines, August 25, 2013 - The Jesus Is Lord (JIL) Church Worldwide will
be celebrating its 36th Anniversary on Sunday, October 26; 8am onwards at the
Quirino Grandstand in Luneta, Manila.

President Benigno Simeon Aquino III is expected to join the grand prayer
assembly where Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva, Founder and Spiritual Director of JIL
Church Worldwide will lead the 3rd anniversary of the launching of the prayer
movement called God Bless The Philippines.

God Bless The Philippines Prayer Movement calls upon every Filipino wherever
he or she may be in any part of the world to verbally say a short prayer of God
bless the Philippines!" every day at 12:00 noon of the time zone of the place
where he or she may be.
To complement the daily 12:00 noon God Bless The Philippines!" prayer right
after the "Angelus Prayer" declaration is an online prayer
site, www.GodBlessThePhilippines.com, where every Filipino is encouraged to
participate in Post-A-Prayer for the Philippines.

Highlights of the Event include the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, to be
officiated by Pope Francis, the Bishop of Rome and the leader of the worldwide
Catholic Church and a host of bishops and priests from all over the Philippines.
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Also invited as speakers are sports icons, television and movie personalities and
high society figures led by The Philippine STAR columnists RJ Ledesma, Stephanie
Zubiri-Crespi, and Tim Yap, The Philippine STAR lifestyle section editor Millet
Martinez-Mananquil, Philippine Daily INQUIRER Lifestyle section editor Thelma
Sioson-San Juan, Meralco Bolts coach Norman Black, Ateneo mens basketball
coach Bo Perasol and his players Kiefer Ravena, Thirdy Ravena and Von
Pessumal, former players Doug Kramer, JC Intal, Macky Escalona, Nico Salva,
Bacon Austria, Tonino Gonzaga, Emman Monfort, Frank Golla, Oping Sumalinog,
JP Erram and Jai Reyes, Sen. Bong Revilla Jr., William Lao, Mother Lily
Monterverde, Shirley Kuan, Deedee Sytangco, Sec. Sonny Coloma, Beth Tagle,
Rep. Dax and Midy Cua, Dolly Anne Carvajal-Mendoza, Lily Layug, Arthur
Manuntag, Christine Singson, Grace Singson, Tess Daza, Jackie Aquino-Gavino,
Joy Melendrez, Tonypet Albano, Maricar Bhel, Reps. Uliran Joaquin, Hermilando
Mandanas, Annie Susano and Butch Dumpit, Vanessa Francisco, Annabelle
Rama-Gutierrez, Boots Anson-Roa, Snow Tago, Charmaine Yu, Greg Yu, Edmund
Lim and Ramon Jacinto, Million People March celebrity supporters Ogie
Alcasid, Bianca Gonzales and Jim Paredes, TV5s Willie Revillame, Father and son
Pen and Ping Medina, Celebrity cousins Isabelle Daza and Georgina Wilson,
Mariel Rodriguez, JC Tiuseco, Georgina Wilson, Miriam Quiambao, Gretchen Ho,
John Lapus, Kean Cipriano, Comedienne Candy Pangilinan, with friends Arnell
Ignacio and directors Joey Reyes and Manny Castaeda, Ramon Bautista, TV
host Raymond Gutierrez, Mae Paner, Pinky Amador, Leo Valdez, Noel Trinidad
and Robin Padilla, 1986 EDSA veterans Leah Navarro, Mitch Valdez, and Maan
Hontiveros, Megastar Sharon Cuneta and Atty. Kiko Pangilinan, Kris Aquino,
Christopher de Leon and Sandy Andolong, Rez Cortez, William Martinez and
Yayo Aguila, Lani Mercado-Revilla, Lorna Tolentino-Fernandez, Tirso Cruz III and
wife Lyn and son Bodie, Eric Quizon, G. Toengi and Romnick Sarmenta, Kuh
Ledesma, Grace Nono, Louie Heredia and Dingdong Avanzado, Bro. Eddie
Villanueva presidential campaign supporters Coney Reyes, Karla Martinez, Piolo
Pascual, Dolphy Quizon, Jr., Donita Rose, Nonoy Zuniga, Prof. Jeremias Jangad,
PBA player James Yap and sons Joshua and Bimby Aquino-Yap, Fastbreak 2
basketball players Derek Ramsey, Luis Alandy, Xian Lim, Jhong Hilario, Vhong
Navarro, Billy Crawford, Gerald Anderson, Chris Tiu, Young JV, Ervic Vijandre,
Gilas cadet player Matthew Ganuelas, and Kevin Alas, BENCH/ family stars and
6200: The Mission Possible Project personalities Kim Chiu, Karylle, Jeric and
Jeron Teng, Enchong Dee, Joseph Marco, Lovi Poe, singer Rachelle Ann Go and
Markki Stroem, Mr. Chinatown 2013 winners Sky Yang, Jerome Tan and Randy
See; Mark Lopez, Jairus Ferrer, Alec Robes, Be Bench: The Model Search finalist
Ron Morales; Carlos Concepcion; Yeng Constantino; Pinoy Dream Academy
Season 2 scholar Hansen Nichols with his twin brother GC, BENCH/ Rajo Laurel
Dos collection models Sam Concepcion, Rocco Nacino, Steven Silva, Enzo
Pineda, Sarah Lahbati and Regine Angeles, America's Next Top Model's
Dominique Reighard and Allison Harvard, models-turned-actors David Chua and
Miko Raval, Luisito Rabat, GMA Network Artist Center talents Gloria Romero-
Gutierrez, Pilita Corrales, Aljur Abrenica, Louise delos Reyes, Mark Herras, Yasmien
Kurdi, LJ Reyes, Julie Anne San Jose, Kristoffer Martin, Derrick Monasterio, Barbie
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Forteza, Bela Padilla, Bea Binene, Max Collins, Rafael Rosell, Glaiza de Castro,
Rochelle Pangilinan, Mona Louise Rey, Jonalyn Viray, Kyla Calumpad-Alvarez,
Jay-R Silliona, Mark Bautista, Chef Boy Logro, Manilyn Reynes, Angelu de Leon,
Mark Anthony Fernandez, Gabby Eigenmann, Raymond Bagatsing, Ricky Davao,
Anjo Yllana and Wally Bayola, GMA News anchors and reporters Arnold Clavio,
Sandra Aguinaldo, Raffy Tima and wife Mariz Umali, Oscar Oida, Mark Salazar,
Jun Veneracion, Chino Gaston, Weatherman Nathaniel Cruz, Media personalities
Dong Puno, Chiqui Roa-Puno, Jeanne Young, Cory Quirino, Mel Tiangco and Jay
Sonza, Mons Romulo, Tonyboy Cojuangco and Gretchen Barretto, Korina
Sanchez, Karen Davila, who came with her sons David and Lucas, Miguel Pastor,
Joy Ortega, Edu Manzano, Robi Domingo, Peping Cojuangco daughters Mikee
Cojuangco-Jaworski, China Cojuangco-Gonzalez (and her adorable baby
Lucia), Mai-Mai Cojuangco, composer Ryan Cayabyab and his wife Emmy,
Rowell Santiago, Celeste Legaspi, JM Rodriguez, Arnold Vegafria and Cris
Villonco, entertainment news reporters Mario Dumaual and Gretchen Fullido,
Gary Valenciano, Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo, Albert Martinez, Mylene Dizon, Iza
Calzado, Vina Morales, Shaina Magdayao, Erik Santos, Ogie Diaz, Gary Vs wife
Angeli Pangilinan-Valenciano, Angeline Quinto, Arron Villaflor, Christian Bautista,
Basil Valdez, Sam Milby, Gina Godinez, musical director and arranger Homer
Flores, music composer Louie Ocampo and wife Jojo, Renna Angeles, Baby
Fricke, Karen Santos, Bing-Bing Quiros, Gina Aboitiz, Nick and Lucille Locsin, Paul
Campos, Tony and Chingbee Cuenca, Manny Miana, J. Anton Mendoza, Budji
Layug, Royal Pineda, Ed Calma, Milo Naval, Tony Gonzales, Tes Pasola, Kenneth
Cobonpue, Ana Rocha, Bart Guingona, Jinggoy Buensuceso, Jaime Chua, Agot
Isidro, Liezel Martinez, Rachel Alejandro and Joanna Ampil, volleyball stars Dzi
Gervacio, Jem Ferrer, Fille Cainglet-Cayetano, A Nacachi, Rachel Daquis,
Jovelyn Gonzaga, Alyssa Valdez, Denden Lazaro, Charo Soriano, Marge Tejada,
Melissa Gohing, Mary Jean Balse, Mayeth Carolino, Michelle Carolino, Ella De
Jesus, Kara Acevedo, Karla Bello, Stephanie Gabriel, Mae Tajima, Jayson Ramos,
Maica Morada, Jed Montero, Michelle Laborte, Sasa Devanadera, Grethcel
Soltones, Joy Benito, Rubie De Leon, Mae Crisostomo, Ynna Hao, Tina Salak, JP
Torres, Dahlia Cruz, Nene Bautista, Aiza Maizo, Maika Ortiz, Rhea Dimaculangan,
Denise Tan, Venus Bernal, Jheck Dionela, Angge Tabaquero, Bea Pascual, Judy
Caballejo, AJ Pareja, Myco Antonio, Henry Pecana, Rex Intal, Dindin Santiago,
Jaja Santiago, Princess Gaiser, Shiela Bang Pineda, Mayette Zapanta,
Rosemarie Vargas, Jen Reyes, Angela Benting, Pau Soriano, Peter Torres, Michelle
Gumabao, Cha Cruz, Stephanie Mercado, Jeshul Wensh Tiu, Renz Casanova,
Joanne Siy, Loren Lantin, Mia Hirotsuji, Pamela Lastimosa, Ingrid Reyes, Jessey De
Leon, Carmela Tunay, Chloe Cortez, Alex Cabanos, Patricia Rasmo, Illa Santos,
Joanne Bunag, Jacqueline Alarca and Ers Iratay, socialites Baby Araneta Fores,
Lisa Araneta, Cacho Marcos, Linda Oledan, Veana Fores, Lorrie Reynoso, Vicky
Zubiri, Maricris Zobel, Carol Garcia, Maripi Muscat and Margarita Fores, Anton
Mendoza, Monch Cruz, Chut Cuerva, Marcel Crespo, Ipe Cruz of Rogue
Magazine, Marco Lobregat, Ching Cruz, Tina Cuevas, Agnes Huibonhoa, Fe
Rodriguez, Susan Joven, Ian Giron, Andres Vasquez Prada and Al Tengco, travel
friends Pops Fernandez-Nievera, Doris Magsaysay Ho, Gina Lopez, Evelyn Forbes,
Marc Nelson, Ricco and Tina Maristela-Ocampo, Rikki and Beng Dee, Philip and
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Tricia Cu-Unjieng, Sander and Mons Romulo-Tantoco, Philippine National Red
Cross Chairman Richard Gordon, Renna Hechanova Angeles, Karen Santos,
Bobby and Chingbee Cuenca, Gina Aboitiz, Baby Girl Fricke, Gina Godinez,
Maurice Arcache and ace photographer Alex Van Hagen, Jojie Dingcong, Jean
Goulbourn, Frances Lim and Paul Campos, Dennis and Tessa Prieto-Valdes,
Ernest Escaler, Ces Orena-Drilon, Dyan Castillejo-Garcia, Jackie Castillejo-
Guingona, Eric Quizon, Liza Ilarde, Ana Kalaw, Anton San Diego, Raul
Teehankee, Pepper Teehankee, McCann Erickson Client Service Director
Bernadette Chincuanco, Coca-Cola Philippines Marketing Director Anubha
Sahasrabuddhe & IMC Director Yasmin Mallari, Mariko Jacinto, Aye Nuguid, Leah
Puyat, Anton Barretto and Jack de Mesa, Coca-Cola ASEAN Business Unit
President Manuel Arroyo, Coca-Cola Philippines President & General Manager
Guillermo Aponte, marketing director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe and Franchise
and Commercial Leadership Director Peter Schaelstraete together with the
Coca-Cola Philippines team: Johanna Hife, Steve Little, Rogie Delena, Raymond
Villaflor, Teejae Sonza, Jobert Dumlao, Sharon Tanganco, Roki Ferrer, Rachel
Cruz, Francis Chua, Franz Decloedt, Yasmin Mallari, Jenny Cinco, Jing Atienza,
Criselda Pascual, Mavel Banocnoc, Thess Acuna, Franco Jorge, Stephanie
Castillo, Tish Condeno, Jaideep Kibe, Nicamae Baylen, Jenalyn Perez, Barry del
Rosario, and Nikki Lee, Suyen Corporation's Nene and Virgilio Lim, Bryan Lim and
Suyen Lim, Carlos Chan's children Carlson, Archie, Rinby, Larry, Oszen and Shera,
Suyen Corporation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ben Chan, stylist Noel
Manapat, public relations practitioner, events orgainzer and Enchong Dee and
Joseph Marcos manager Keren Pascual, Korina Sanchezs manager Girlie Rodis
and Star Magic handler Monch Novales, actor-models Victor Basa and Victor
Aliwalas, TAPE, Inc. president and chief executive officer Antonio P. Tuviera,
TAPE, Inc. chairman-emeritus Romeo P. Jalosjos, TV5 President-Emeritus and The
Philippine STAR Chairman Atty. Ray C. Espinosa, TV5 President and CEO Noel
Lorenzana, Ariel Fermin, Gary Dujali, News5 head Luchi Cruz-Valdes and Sports5
head and Gilas Pilipinas Basketball Coach Chot Reyes, Former Professional
Models Association of the Philippines board members and fashion luminaries Tina
Maristela Ocampo, Izza Gonzales-Agana, Desiree Verdadero-Abesamis, Marina
Benipayo, Patty Betita, Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, Den Abesamis, Hans
Montenegro, Grace Molina and Ariel Atendido, Robert Mananquil, models
Robby Mananquil, and Raya Mananquil-de Leon, and Rissa Mananquil-Trillo with
Valerie de los Santos; Ateneo Blue Eagles team manager Paolo Trillo; Current
Professional Models Association of the Philippines president Phoemela Baranda
also came with Manilas favourite models Grace Tagle, Bubbles Paraiso, Luke
Jickain, Mia Ayesa, Sanya Smith, Mika Lagdameo-Martinez, Antoinette Enciso-
Ocampo, Angel Agustin-Co and Marilen Faustino-Montenegro.

The entire celebration shall be covered live on radio and television through AM
Radio DZRV Radio Veritas 846 and GMA Network Channel 7 from 6 A.M. Sunday,
October 26 to 8:30 A.M. Monday, October 27.

Bro. Mike Velarde, founder and servant-leader of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer
Partners Foundation International Roman Catholic Charismatic Renewal
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Religious Movement will deliver the Healing Message on Monday Morning at 4:00
a.m. followed by a Joyful Salu-Salo at 7:00 a.m.

For more information about the 36th Jesus Is Lord Church Worldwide Anniversary,
visit www.jilworldwide.org.
PRO-DEMOCRACY RALLY: 'It's like Edsa 1986' (By Rocky Nazareno, Cathy C.
Yamsuan and Philip Tubeza)
THIS is 1986 all over again. The only difference is we're now trying to nip a
dictatorship in the bud, a congressman yesterday said, echoing the sentiments
of the participants in the pro-democracy rally today led by the pork barrel
groups.
A senator said the issues being raised by the pro-democracy rally were about
freedom.
The Constitution protected our freedom. Now that the people who are
supposed to preserve and defend it are not doing so, the people must protect
it, Sen. Sonia Roco said.
Rep. Rolando Andaya Jr. (Camarines Sur) said the two rallies are a throwback to
the last days of the Marcos regime as he urged the people to fight against the
enemies of democracy.
Andaya said People Power was in Edsa while those who wanted to keep the
Marcoses in power were in Malacaang.
The rally on Ayala Avenue in Makati City is protesting Charter change, the return
of Marcos cronies and the threats to press freedom.
Today, we again converge, not in Edsa but Makati, this time to make known our
opposition to the agenda of Malacaang,'' Rep. Robert Ace Barbers (Surigao
del Norte) said.
Foreplay
Roco compared the public outrage over Charter change to sex.
Once you start, once you have already engaged in foreplay, it will be difficult
to stop,'' he said in Filipino.
You must have a catharsis, and the rally (this afternoon) will lead to (that)
catharsis. I hope (once this is over), it will pacify the people. (If the rally doesn't
take place), emotions will continue to boil. It's important for the people to
express their (fear) that freedom is threatened, he added.
Roco reminded the President that his own plan to amend the Charter was the
cause of the rally.
He said Mr. Estrada better call off the administration's plan to amend the
Constitution if he wanted to stop the rally, which the President claimed was
threatening investor confidence in the country.
The only way to prevent the rally at this point (is) if President Benigno Aquino III
announces: 'No more efforts to amend the Constitution until 2016,' said Roco.
He said the President could ask voters in a plebiscite that will coincide with the
2016 elections if they wanted Charter change.
Roco said Sin and Aquino, in turn, could advise their followers not to proceed to
Makati anymore.
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It will be easier if we tell everybody 'Let's not get wet (because) pneumonia is
difficult to cure, he said. The weather bureau has predicted rains because of
storm Luding.
But Roco said it would be hard to call off the rally at this point because Mr.
Aquinos insistence on Charter change had already ignited the people's
outrage.
The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) yesterday said it was
too late to call off today's rally.
To call off the October 26 rally is too late as of now. The whole exercise is
already definite and defined, CBCP president Socrates Villegas said.
He said the CBCP had said that Charter change at this time was untimely and
would divide the people. ''It is sad that those words fell on deaf ears.''
The archbishop said Mr. Estrada might as well junk his Walang tutulong sa
Pilipino kundi ang kapwa Pilipino slogan and replace it with Walang tutulong
sa Pilipino kundi ang estranjero.
Cruz said the President's proposal to allow foreigners to own land in the country
would undermine the Constitution's pro-Filipino character.
He said government should stop blaming the Constitution for the nation's
poverty. Rather, it should address the issues of insurgency, graft and partisan
politics.
Former Sen. Alberto Romulo said there was no need to amend the Charter at this
time. ''Why then is the President stubbornly pursuing charter changes?'' he asked.
Trojan horse
Is the avowed purpose truly for foreign investment to help the economy? Or the
poor? Or are the so-called economic proposals actually a Trojan horse for the
administration's true and real agenda?
Quoting constitutionalist Joaquin Bernas, Romulo said: ''The suspicion of many is
that the agitation about economic change is really a camouflage for political
change.
''Regrettably, this political change is aimed at no less than recreating, Marcos
style, an all-powerful, unaccountable and perpetuating chief executive.''
Oscar Atadero of Progay-Philippines said the economic reforms that Mr. Estrada
was seeking through Charter change would just worsen the situation of gays in
the country.
He said the plan to further liberalize the economy would put many gays out of
work as some 90 percent of them are working in small businesses.
''Gays will be forced to sell drugs and become prostitutes if this succeeds,'' he
said.
Rain or shine
It's all systems go for the pro-democracy rally, which is expected to draw
between 40,000 and 50,000 people.
Rally organizer Gil de los Reyes said the rally would precede rain or shine.
Dodi Limcauco said organizers were deploying 2,000 marshals consisting of
members of the clergy and nongovernmental groups.
There will also be a sub-marshal for each marching group so that they can
police their own ranks, Limcauco said.
Policemen who will be assigned to the rally site will not carry guns.
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Organizers urged those protesters to stick a piece of paper on their cars showing
August 20 Rally Ayala or Manindigan para sa Demokrasya Rally, Ayala.
Msgr. Nico Bautista said the rally was something that must be done now.
Otherwise, we are just prolonging the agony.
Running priest Robert Reyes dismissed allegations that the rally was intended to
destabilize the government. This is not a destabilization move. In our hearts,
there's only one word--peace, he said.
He said the Church should not be afraid of El Shaddais numbers.
A genuine faith is not afraid to be unpopular and what is unpopular is not
oftentimes moral or correct, Reyes said.
132 amendments
Former Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri yesterday disclosed that some congressmen were
planning to introduce at least 132 amendments to the Constitution, including
changing the form of government and lifting the term limits on elected officials.
He did not specify the other amendments.
At a forum at the Holiday Inn, he called on local officials to join today's pro-
democracy rally despite the administration's pressure.
He said some local officials were being pressured to ''toe the line'' of Mr. Aquino.
''We were also being squeezed but we refused to change our mind on the issue,''
he said, noting that ''friends'' of Mr. Aquino had approached him to ''ease up'' on
his hardline stance on Charter change.
As of yesterday, at least 26 members of the House of Representatives, including
some from the ruling LAMP party, had confirmed that they would attend today's
rally.
They include Andaya, Barbers, Zubiri, Abby Binay-Campos (Makati), Jose Yap
(Tarlac), Heherson Alvarez (Isabela), Hernani Braganza (Pangasinan), Federico
Sandoval II (Malabon-Navotas), Michael Defensor (Quezon City), (Misamis
Oriental), Feliciano Belmonte (Quezon City), Sergio Apostol (Leyte), Pantaleon
Alvarez (Davao del Norte), J. Mayo Almario (Davao Oriental), Enrico Echiverri
(Caloocan) and Ignacio Bunye (Muntinlupa).
The 14 party-list representatives will also join the rally.
LAMP Rep. Raoul Del Mar is attending the rally in Cebu.
In the Senate, those joining the rally are Roco, Minority Leader Teofisto Guingona,
Sergio Osmea III and Aquilino Pimentel.
Jose Concepcion Jr., a former delegate to the 1971 Constitutional Convention, is
also joining the rally in Makati.
Concepcion described the rally as a ''call for the Filipino people to reaffirm our
commitment to democracy, which we have won back gloriously during the Edsa
Revolution.''
Education Secretary Andrew Gonzales left the decision to cancel classes in
private and public schools to the ''full discretion'' of principals whose schools are
located near the rally sites. With a report from Stella O. Gonzales
References: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/16th_Congress_of_the_Philippines
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PNoy: My decision will not change (By Juliet Labog-Javellana, Philippine Daily
INQUIRER)
Manila, Philippines, October 26, 2014 (I NQUI RER) - WHO'S afraid of the pro-
democracy rally in Makati City?
Not President Benigno Aquino III, who declared yesterday that the rally and other mass
actions nationwide would not make him stop pushing for Charter change, the case on
Maguindanao Massacre, the crime rate in Metro Manila and the pork barrel scam and, he
said, its resultant benefits for the people.
Hindi rin po mababago ng ilan ang ating hangarin na mapaganda ang buhay ng ating
mga kababayan, he said in an interview with Bombo Radyo Philippines.
During the 45-minute interview, which was aired by 43 Bombo and Radyo ng Bayan
stations, the President was repeatedly asked whether he would change his mind in the
face of nationwide protests against his administration's initiative to amend the 1987
Constitution.
Hindi magbabago ang aking kapasyahan sapagkat ang aking pananaw ay isa ito sa
tanging solusyon para magkaroon tayo ng sapat na puhunan para mahango natin sa
kahirapan ang ating mga kababayan (My decision will not change because in my view,
this is one of the ways to secure sufficient funds to solve the problem of poverty), he
said.
Mr. Estrada said he would not be deterred by the rally to be led today by the pork barrel
rallysts to protest Charter change, Marcos-style cronyism and threats to press freedom.
He pointed out that the Constitution needed amending in order to allow the Philippines to
keep in step with the rest of the world.
Hindi po ito makakapigil sa akin na pag-aralan ang mga nararapat na pagbabago sa
ating Saligang Batas sa ngayon. Ang aking pananaw ay hindi na angkop ang ating
Saligang Batas sa nagaganap sa ating mundo, he said.
But over lunch in Malacaang, the President told foreign correspondents that he planned
to meet with Aquino's group ''maybe after this rally,'' and ''especially at this point (when)
we have just overcome our economic crisis.''
''So as not to break the momentum of our economic recovery, and for the sake and for the
greater good of our people, I have to unite our people and talk to the leaders of the
opposition party,'' he said.
Change of tune
The other day, Mr. Aquino urged Tagle to call off their rally, saying it was hurting the
economy and the country's image abroad.
But he changed his tune yesterday when asked about his appeal.
''Kailan man, sa simula't simula ay hindi natin pinagbabawalan ang
kanilang rally sapagkat nasa demokrasya tayo (Since the start I have never prevented
them from holding their rally because we are in a democracy),'' he said.
The President also said he wanted to hear what the protesters would say, including the
reasons behind their mass action (''At mabuti nga, tinitingnan natin kung ano ang
sasabihin nila at may sarili silang dahilan kung bakit sila nagra-rally'').
He said he was not bothered by the rally, was not stopping anyone from attending it, and
was in fact pleased that many people wanted to participate in discussions regarding
Charter change.
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Malaya ang lahat na magbigay ng pahayag tungkol ditto (Everyone is free to air views
on the issue), he said.
Mr. Aquino recalled that Aquino and Sin fought against him (nilabanan) during the
2010 presidential elections.
Kung ako po'y natakot sa kanila, hindi na po sana ako naging Pangulo. Pinatutunayan
po natin na tama tayo (If I became afraid of them then, I would not have been President.
This proves that I'm right), he said.
He added that the people had nothing to fear about his proposed constitutional
amendments as these would go through a lengthy process from the preparatory
commission until the plebiscite.
He stressed that it would be the public who would have the last say.
Velarde
The President was asked by Ronil Peaflor of Bombo Radyo Legazpi if he was using
El Shaddai leader Bro. Mike Velarde, Jesus is Lord Church founder, international
president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva, or vice versa.
In reply, Mr. Aquino said no one was being used by anyone. He pointed out that Velarde
was his spiritual adviser and was helping him pray for the improvement of the state of the
nation, and that Velarde had many projects for the poor.
He added: Ang pakiusap ko po lamang ay sana ay tigilan na natin ang mga ganyang
intriga. Magtrabaho na lang po tayo para sa ikauunlad ng bayan (My request is that this
kind of intrigue be stopped. Let us just work for the good of the country).''
El Shaddai is celebrating Velarde's 75th birthday and El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners
Foundation Internationals 30th anniversary at the Rizal Park last August 23-24 while
Jesus is Lord Church is celebrating founder, international president and spiritual director
Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanuevas 81
st
birthday on October 6 and Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwides 36
th
anniversary today at the Rizal Park on October 26-27, part of the five-
day pastoral visit of Pope Francis here in the Philippines.
Peaflor observed that while the Catholic Church had been split by the Charter change
issue, Velarde had been enjoying a close relationship with the President (Kapansin-
pansin na masyado kayong malapit kay Bro. Mike Velarde).
Peaflor cited the 45day reprieve that the President granted a death convict upon
Velarde's request.
The President reiterated that his main reason for going to the El Shaddai gathering was to
extend belated birthday greetings to Jesus is Lord Church founder, international president
and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva; he is celebrating his birthday on
Monday, October 6.
He said that should he be given the opportunity, he would speak before the gathering to
discuss his plans for Charter change.
Aquino
Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma and an officer of the Foreign
Correspondents Association of the Philippines confirmed that the President would meet
with Aquino and company.
Yes. I think that's going to be after (the rally). The rally is going to be held tomorrow. I
don't think there's time (to set up the meeting earlier),'' Reyes said.
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Focap board member Arthur Bariuad said: (The President) said he is willing to talk to
the group of Cory after the rally . . . He also wants to hear the issues they are going to
present.''
Velarde and Villaneuva himself said he was willing to broker talks between Tagle and
Mr. Aquino.
I am trying my very best so that everyone will be able to reach an understanding,'' he
said when asked if he was willing to arrange a meeting.
Asked if he had initiated anything, he said: Nothing yet. I will try. With a report from
Martin P. Marfil
It's countrywide, not just in Ayala (By the PDI Bureaus)
Manila, Philippines, October 26, 2014 (I NQUI RER) - NATIONWIDE outrage over
President Benigno Aquino IIIs plan to change the Constitution, Marcos-style cronyism,
to scrap the pork barrel and perceived threats to press freedom erupts today in Church-led
street rallies in big cities and towns all over the country.
In Cebu, police units have been on red alert since noon yesterday to ensure that the
freedom march at the Fuente Osmea oval will be peaceful.
Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma and Cebu Archbishop-Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal
said he was not worried that trouble might erupt today as he expected the gathering to be
peaceful.
I have more faith in the Cebuano people. In Manila, I do not know. But here, I have
more faith, after all we are on the same island, he said in an earlier interview.
A small plane piloted by Capt. Pantaleon del Rosario, a businessman, is expected to
rain aerofetti and confetti on the rally this afternoon.
It's symbolic. It would show that the people are ready to oppose any Charter change on
land, sea and air, said Vicente Balbuena, chair of the Kilusan para sa Pambansang
Demokrasya in Cebu.
Among those expected to join the rally are members of the Catholic Educational
Association of the Philippines, Sugbuanong Pagpakabana and the Basic Ecclesial
Communities from Cebu City.
In Negros, thousands of people will march today to rally sites in Kabankalan and San
Carlos cities in the morning and in Bacolod and Dumaguete cities in the afternoon.
People's camps were set up yesterday afternoon on Magsaysay, Araneta, B.S. Aquino
and Lacson streets in Bacolod.
Almost a hundred persons lighted torches and candles at the two rally sites for press
freedom.
Fr. Greg Patino, Bacolod Diocese Social Action Center director, said about 100,000
people was expected to attend the rally in Bacolod.
He urged the participants not to be deterred even by possible rain. If Charter change is
not stopped, he said, ''what will hit the country will be worse than a storm and the
earthquake in Turkey.''
Protestants
In Iloilo, the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches (CPBC), an umbrella of 763
Protestant churches in the country, called on Mr. Aquino III to give dignity to his office
by upholding press freedom.
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In a statement, the CPBC asked the President to be transparent and allow the press to
look into all dealings, decisions and transactions of the government.
In Aklan, Bishop Gabriel V. Reyes called on the faithful to attend the rally at Pastrana
Park in the capital town of Kalibo this afternoon.
Reyes said he was displeased over the decision of Bro. Mike Velarde, founder and
servant-leader of the El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International Roman
Catholic Charismatic Religious Renewal Movement, to hold the birthday celebration of
Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, international president and spiritual director
Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva and the annual founding anniversary celebration of the
Evangelical Christian and Roman Catholic charismatic renewal religious group Jesus is
Lord Church Worldwide movement simultaneous with the pro-democracy rally being
initiated by actvisits in Makati City in time for the five-day pastoral and state visit of
Pope Francis here in the Philippines on October 25 to 27.
Reyes said Velarde and Villanueva, as members of the Roman Catholic Church, should
have at least shown some respect to the Manila archbishop.
In Tagbilaran City, Msgr. Leonardo Y. Medroso, bishop of Tagbilaran, said a symposium
on Charter change would be held at the St. Joseph Cathedral.
Tumulak, who leads the People Resist Cha-cha Movement, said City Vice-Mayor Toto
Veloso, Msgr. Antonieto Cabahug and a still unnamed priest would speak during the
forum.
More militant groups are expected to mount a demonstration.
Davao City
In Davao City, the Davao Archdiocese and militant groups rejected calls by Mr. Aquino
to call off today's rally as they hit back at the President for blaming anti-Charter change
advocates for the recent economic jitters.
Fr. Leonardo Dublan, Davao Archdiocese Social Action Center director, said that for as
long as President Benigno Aquino III would insist on amending the Constitution, mass
actions would go on.
Today's rally will serve as a grand opening salvo for more protest activities if the
Aquino III administration refuses to heed the clamor against Charter change, the
Maguindanao Massacre case and the pork barrel fund scam, he said.
Glen Amoroso, secretary general of the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan-Davao, said Mr.
Aquinos request to call off the rally was a sign that he was getting nervous and
worried about the impact of the growing public outcry.
On Thursday night, some 800 students from seven universities and colleges lighted
candles at the Freedom Park in Davao City. They later held a Torch Parade for
Freedom on the main streets.
In Koronadal, a newly formed multisectoral group, called the South Cotabato People's
Alliance for Nationalism and Democracy, will lead today's rally.
Alliance chair Peter Jabido said they expected up to 10,000 people from 11 towns to
converge downtown.
''Today is just a beginning of the series of protest actions to be spearheaded by the
multisectoral alliance to preserve the gains of Edsa and to resist anti-people policies of
the Aquino administration, Jabido said.
A rally will also be held in General Santos City, starting at 9 a.m.
In Mati, Davao Oriental, anti-Charter change groups vowed to intensify their protests.
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Bishop Patricio Alo said they would drum up support for their campaign through the
Church-run radio station dxBM, the pulpit and the streets.
Resolutions
The provincial board is also planning to adopt a resolution condemning Mr. Aquinos
plan to rewrite the Charter, repression of the critical press and cronyism, according to
board member Anaclito Macatabog.
A similar resolution is being studied by the municipal council of Mati, said Councilor
Eric Albao.
In Digos, Davao del Sur, the Democratic Initiative for Strengthening the Constitution and
Against Resurging Dictatorship said the only way today's rally at 1 p.m. would be called
off is for Mr. Aquino III to forget Charter change.
He may employ all sorts of dirty tactics, including disruptions, but these will not prevent
the people from expressing their opposition to the Cha-cha and pork barrel, Antonio
Navidad, Discord chair, said.
Transportation is expected to be paralyzed starting at 5 a.m. as tricycle drivers also
promised to join the rally.
Simplicia Delada, spokesperson of Cause-DS, said the federation of tricycle drivers and
operators pledged to stop plying their routes in sympathy with the anti-Charter change
ralliers.
Bishop Generoso Camia appealed to the public to attend the rally.
In Iligan City, a torch parade was held last night by the Ranao Tri-people Movement for
Genuine Peace and Development, an alliance of government organizations and people's
organizations, according to its chairperson Adona Orquillas.
Iligan Bishop Emilio Bataclan said the protest march in the city would start at 2 p.m.
Western Mindanao
In Pagadian City, rally organizers said they expected 20,000 people to converge in the
city from various places in Western Mindanao.
Eugene Velez, chair of Alyansang Makabayan for Western Mindanao, said they
anticipated some 20,000 people to join.
Rallies will also be held in Ozamiz, Dipolog, Oroquieta and Zamboanga cities and in Ipil,
Zamboanga del Sur, Velez said.
In Bicol, church and multisectoral group leaders yesterday firmed up their plans for
today's protest rallies.
Fr. Jovic Lobrigo, Social Action Center head, said some 10,000 people from 40 church-
based groups, people's and nongovernment organizations would attend the rally at the
Freedom Park in Legazpi City.
Called Marcha-Bicol (Movement against Revision of the Charter-Bicol), the protest
action will also be joined in by groups from Sorsogon, Catanduanes and Camarines Sur,
Lobrigo said.
The participants will include bishops, priests, lay leaders, students, and leaders of militant
groups in the region.
Church-led groups will be holding a Solidarity rally in Daet, Camarines Norte.
The protest march in Legazpi will start at the Ninoy Aquino Park in Daraga town,
Redemptorist Compound in Barangay Gogon and the St. Raphael Church.
Pangasinan
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In Pangasinan, in lieu of a protest rally, church bells will ring at 3 p.m. on Sunday to call
everyone to prayer, said Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas.
Villegas, president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines, said central
Pangasinan is not rally and demonstration-conscious.
He said that in deference to Pangasinenses, especially those in central Pangasinan, he had
issued a pastoral letter calling Catholic faithful to pray as a show of concern over the
issues raised during the rally.
In the circular letter to be read on October 27 and 28, Cruz urged everyone to pray for
our country, for its unity and peace, for its progress and prosperity under the rule of
democracy.
In Isabela, Catholic priests and devotees described the Charter change as an outright
oppression, morally wrong and should be rejected.
The Roman Catholic Territorial Diocese of Ilagan said changing the Constitution at this
time would affect Filipinos adversely.
Its pastoral letter, which will be read during Masses on Sunday, said Mr. Aquinos plans
would make the rich richer and the poor poorer.
Members of the Catholic clergy and laity from Olongapo City and Zambales will join the
rally in Makati City.
Fr. Alberto Avenido, social action director of the diocese of Iba, said Bishop Deogracias
Iiguez has issued a circular urging the Catholic clergy and lay people in the province to
be ''patriotic in these trying times'' and oppose Charter change.
Baguio City
In Baguio City, officials of the Cordillera police assigned about 200 police officers to
secure the parade grounds of the Burnham Park in Baguio City, where close to 2,000
persons are expected to rally today.
I have been monitoring a signature campaign being conducted by students and this
appeared to be the figure they are expecting to march today (Aug. 20). But we are certain
the rally will not be too disruptive, Chief Supt. Renato Paredes, Cordillera police
director, said.
Members of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines and the League of Filipino
Students in the city had gathered 1,200 signatures of people who are against Mr.
Aquinos plan to change the Constitution.
A member of the Baguio Colleges Foundation's Paralegal Volunteers Organization said
students from seven colleges and universities in the city will be represented in today's
march.
A CEGP candlelight ceremony to protest threats to press freedom was held last night on
Session Road. Tonton Antocop, Froilan Gallardo, Carla P. Gomez, Nereo C. Lujan,
Odon S. Bandiola and Chito A. Fuentes, PDI Visayas Bureau; J owel F. Canuday,
Aquiles Z. Zonio, Ferdinand O. Zuasola, Allan A. Nawal and Bobby Timonera, PDI
Mindanao Bureau; Rey Nasol, PDI Southern Luzon Bureau; Catherine Aquino,
Villamor Visaya J r. and Vincent Cabreza, PDI Northern Luzon Bureau; and Henry
Empeo, PDI Central Luzon Desk
Bro. Eddies birthday pary worlds annual biggest and grandest
Manila, Philippines, October 26, 2014 (I NQUI RER) - THEY will be shouting at Ayala
while others will be praying at Luneta, said El Shaddai founder and servant-leader Bro.
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Mike Velarde yesterday as he stood firm on his group's plan to hold a gathering to
celebrate the rival religious group Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, international
president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva on October 6 and the 36
th

anniversary celebration of evangelical Christian and Roman Catholic charismatic renewal
religious group movement Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide, and pro-democracy rallies
are set in Makati City and other cities nationwide in time for the pastoral and state visit of
Pope Francis here in the Philippines on October 26 to 27.
Asked if a change of schedule was possible in the interest of unity within the Catholic
Church, Velarde said it was not, adding that a number of El Shaddai members from the
provinces and all over the world were coming or had arrived for the gathering.
The birthday party at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park in Manila threatens to break
records in terms of lavishness and numbers, what with the promised handaan (feast) of
roast pig, chicken and calf, as well as the expected attendance of President Benigno
Aquino III and his political allies and show biz friends.
Velarde was in Malacaang yesterday, October 25. I'm just going to check whether the
appointment of the President with us--which is in the afternoon of Sunday--did not
change, he told reporters.
Asked if Mr. Aquino would be given the opportunity to deliver a speech on the
administrations proposed Charter amendments, he said: I don't know what the President
has in mind, but normally he gives his inspirational message and informs the people on
what is happening in government.
As of last night, there was no official word from Malacaang whether Mr. Aquino would
attend the El Shaddai party for the anniversary celebration of rival religious group Jesus
is Lord Church Worldwide in time for the pastoral visit of Pope Francis here in the
Philippines today.
But earlier, he said he would attend as he had done for the past years. The President is
also scheduled to speak between 5:05 and 5:30 p.m. according to the El Shaddai program
of activities.
Like the President, to whom he serves as spiritual adviser, Velarde is for amending the
Constitution now.
Asked if there would be expressions of support for Charter change at the El Shaddai
gathering, Velarde chuckled and said: Why is our focus on Charter change?
I think we should look into positive changes, not only concerning our Charter, but you
know, I have a different view.
He added, still speaking in Taglish: ''Even if we change that Constitution repeatedly, if
change does not occur in men's hearts, nothing will happen.
''So I think what we should look and pray for is a change within ourselves. All of us are
involved--the media, the Church, the government, the ordinary people. We should all
help in changing ourselves because we are the ones who will suffer.''
Perception
Our celebration will not be destructive That is only the perception of observers,
Velarde said.
He appealed to journalists not to color their gathering, adding: The results of (the
Makati rally and the El Shaddai gathering) could be beneficial to us--they'll be shouting
at Ayala while others will be praying in Luneta.
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Asked if the El Shaddai gathering would serve as a vehicle to promote Charter change, he
said: I have expressed my views that I am in favor of change.
Anything that is growing must experience change. In our country, we should open
ourselves to change, but that change should benefit the majority.
While he opposed the initiative of the Ramos administration to amend the Constitution,
he believes that now is the proper time for the undertaking, he added.
Velarde also said the El Shaddai gathering would not be a rally but merely the annual
celebration of the anniversary of evangelical Christian and Roman Catholic charismatic
renewal religious group Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Movement which coincides
with the birthday celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, international
president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva in time for the pastoral and
state visit of the Pope here in the Philippines.
Nothing political is involved in this celebration at the Luneta, he said.
Asked if Imelda Marcos, widow of the strongman Ferdinand Marcos, was invited, he
said: Everybody's invited at the Luneta.
Velarde readily obliged when asked if he had a message for those participating at the pro-
democracy rally.
We are all for the preservation of our freedoms, he said.
Let us give all the Filipinos the freedom to think, the freedom to express and the
freedom to assemble. That is what democracy is all about.
He also said a variety of opinions should be upheld, and that people should not be forced
to hew to the views of others.
Comparisons
The El Shaddai celebration invites comparisons.
According to the 1998 Guinness Book of World Records, the world's biggest birthday
party was attended by an estimated 35,000 people in Louisville, Kentucky, on Sept. 8,
1979.
It was held to celebrate the 89th birthday of Col. Harland Sanders, founder of Kentucky
Fried Chicken.
Would El Shaddai break this standing record?
Consider this: The crowd that attended El Shaddai 29
th
anniversary celebration on Aug.
17-18, 2013 and Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Movement 35
th
Anniversary
Celebration on October 27-28, 2013 was estimated at more than three million people.
The affair, at which Mr. Aquino and Vice President Jejomar C. Binay, Sr. were present,
was televised live nationwide via satellite on IBC-13.
El Shaddai is composed of two groups: the covenant (with 209,523 officially registered
members) and the non-committed (estimated by the movement itself to number eight
million).
With the numbers, how many lechon, etc. will Velarde need to feed the whole flock?
More important, how much wills the feast cost him?
The INQUIRER checked prices at Jollibee, KFC, Chowking, McDonalds, Greenwich,
Pizza Hut, Lydia's Lechon, Baliwag Lechon Manok and Andok's Lechon Manok.
These are the figures:
Lechon baboy goes for P3,500 for a 12-kilo pig and P8,500 for a 42-kilo pig at
Lydia's.
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Lechon baka costs P18,000 for a 60-kilo calf and P21,000 for a 70-kilo calf, also
at Lydia's.
Lechon manok is sold at P175 per kilo at Baliwag, and P170 per kilo at Andok's.
The size of the whole Rizal Park is about 528,833 square meters. According to planners
of the National Parks and Development Committee of the Department of Tourism, a one-
square-meter area can hold two persons. If tightly crammed, four persons can be
squeezed in.
Assuming that Rizal Park has no structures, it can normally accommodate about
1,057,666 people (if tightly crammed, 2,115,332).
7,000 cops to secure Makati, Manila rallies (By TJ Burgonio and Cynthia Balana)
Manila, Philippines, October 26, 2014 (I NQUI RER) - TRAFFIC will be rerouted. But
to ensure that there will be no untoward incident, a total of 7,000 policemen will be
deployed in Manila and Makati to secure the rallyists.
In Makati City, Chief Supt. Edgardo Aglipay, Metro Manila police chief, said that at 6
a.m. October 26, Sunday, the Ayala Avenue, from Herrera Street to Manila Peninsula on
Makati Avenue will be closed to all vehicular traffic. Paseo de Roxas, from de la Rosa
Street in front of Enterprise Center, Banco Filipino, and BPI Family will likewise be
closed.
At 10 a.m. the entire stretch of Ayala to Rustans Buendia will be closed to all vehicular
traffic.
The traffic re-routing plan will give way to participants to the pro-democracy rally. The
participants will converge at the Ayala-Paseo de Roxas intersection for the main program
which will start at 1 p.m.
Alternative routes will be designated by the Makati Parking Authority, Traffic
Management Group-PNP, MAPSA, and the Ayala Security Force.
No parking for all vehicles along Ayala Avenue.
Rally organizers have been advised to police their own ranks.
No operation dikit or Operation pinta will be allowed within the Central Business District
or the places where the buses are parked.
Another group policemen will be deployed to the Rizal Park to secure the expected
mammoth crowd who will attend the DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International
Family Appointment with El Shaddai - annual founding anniversary celebration of the
Evangelical Christian and Roman Catholic charismatic renewal religious movement Jesus
is Lord Church Worldwide on October 25 to 27 in time for the five-day pastoral and state
visit of Pope Francis here in the Philippines.
Chief Supt. Efren Fernandez, Manila police chief, said that some 1,000 policemen will
come from the Western Police District while the rest were augmentation force from the
National Capital Regional Police Office.
He added that an additional police force would be deployed in the area in case the crowd
swells to 5 million. He also raised the red alert from 6 a.m. Saturday, October 25 up to 9
a.m., October 27, Monday.
We're putting up our own security precautions because the crowd expected will be a bit
big now compared to the other El Shaddai gatherings, Fernandez said in another
briefing.
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Some 3 million people, consisting mostly of El Shaddai followers, are expected to attend
the gathering.
President Benigno Aquino III and other government officials, Church leaders, foreign
dignitaries and showbiz personalities are expected to show up at the celebration because
Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director Bishop Bro.
Eddie Villanueva is also celebrating his birthday on October 6. Mr. Aquino is expected to
address the rally at 5 p.m.
Fernandez downplayed reports that certain groups would bomb the gathering, saying this
was a raw information that needed to be validated.
At any rate we always adopt the principle of considering the worst-case scenario. We
have incorporated that in our plan and we are prepared, he said.
Fernandez pointed out that their main concern was traffic. Some people will be coming
from Manila and going to Makati and vice versa, he said.
He however said that he was not implementing any re-routing in Manila, unless
necessary.
Initially, we feel that there's no need for re-routing. Our traffic plan is very flexible. Just
in case there's a need for a re-routing, we have contingency plans for these, he said.
Fernandez said the 58-heactre Rizal Park can accommodate 2 million people.
In Manila, both North and South bound lanes of Roxas Boulevard will be kept open to
traffic despite the projected crowd of 2 to 3 million expected to attend the El Shaddai
rally.
The T.M. Kalaw, P. Burgos, Calle Muralla, Bonifacio Drive, and the inner streets of the
Port area were the designated parking zones.
Pope Francis will preside over the 6:45 p.m. thanksgiving Mass, which will be broadcast
live on TV and video streamed to an audience of millions around the country and abroad.
Twelve giant LED screens mounted in the field will give participants a better view of the
liturgical rites unfolding in the templete, an elevated concrete-and-bamboo structure.
In the 61-hectare site, a national park backfilled with dirt and limestone for the annual
grand historic event, most of the participants will have to stand throughout the series of
activities which start before noon with foot processions
Only vehicles with passes issued by the Archdiocese of Manila as well as shuttle buses
which would ferry people to the site are allowed to enter the area.
President Benigno Aquino III and Vice-President Jejomar Binay are among several
government officials, Church leaders, foreign dignitaries and showbiz personalities who
will grace the event.
Expect tighter security in coming to the 61-heactre national park where the celebration
will be held.
At 2 p.m., a fluvial procession along the Pasig River: from Guadalupe, Makati City to
Intramuros, Manila will bring the image of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz and Saint Pedro
Calungsod to the templete or little temple which houses the main altar.
An hour before the sea parade, 76 carrozas carrying patron saints of various parishes in
Metro Manila, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Abra, Isabela, Cagayan, Batanes, Quirino, Nueva
Vizcaya, Benguet, Ifugao, Mountain Province, Apayao, Kalinga, La Union, Pangasinan,
Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Zambales, Aurora, Pampanga, Bataan, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna,
Batangas, Rizal, Quezon, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon,
Palawan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Catanduanes, Masbate,
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Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Guimaras, Cebu, Siquijor, Negros
Oriental, Bohol, Samar, Leyte Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Biliran, Southern Leyte,
Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Islands,
Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Bukidnon,
Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Camiguin, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur,
Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat,
Sarangani, Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Zamboanga City, Basilan, Zamboanga
Sibugay, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi will make their way to the venue.
We are basically ready although there are still somethings that need fine-tuning, Msgr.
Dennis Villarojo, the overall chairman of the Cebu celebration for Calungsods
sainthood, said.
He urged the people to make use of the celebration to get closer to the Lord.
We should continue the spirit of penance and prayerful atmosphere so that we will be
able to experience the spiritual fruits of the occasion, Villarojo told Cebu Daily News.
This is a celebration of the Eucharist. We should keep a solemn demeanor, he added.
There will be no Masses in all parishes in 81 provinces from 12 noon onwards.
Anyone who cant go to the Rizal Park can watch the thanksgiving Mass through GMA
Channel 7 and other stations. Internet users can also log on to www.gmanews.tv for a
live streaming of the activities.
Radio stations will also broadcast the events live.
On site 12 giant LCD screens will be mounted in different parts of the vast field to allow
the crowd to see at is going in the altar.
At least 20 golf carts and three electric cars from Mandaue City will transport the elderly
and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Bishops who will be brought from the Manila Cathedral to the Quirino Grandstand
through vans. The Hotel serves as their holding area before the Mass.
Although there are 12,000 monobloc chairs for guests, people are urged to bring their
own portable chairs.
Sixteen medical stations can also be found in the venue. Each medical station has one
standby ambulance. At least three firetrucks will also be stationed at the Rizal Park.
Portalets and comfort rooms are located at the sides of the templete.
In going to the SRP, people can take the free shuttle buses. Bus stops are located in front
of the Talisay City Hall and a block away from the SRP tunnel.
LITURGY
The Holy Mass will start at 8 p.m.
It will be presided over by Pope Francis.
The 76-year-old Pope, who has been the leader of the Worldwide Roman Catholic
Church, was requested by Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma to lead the thanksgiving Mass.
Other than Palma Vidal, the other cardinals who will be present in todays liturgy include
Cardinal Angelo Amato, the prefect of the Congregation of the Causes of Saints; Manila
Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle; Manila Archbishop Emeritus, and Gaudencio
Cardinal Rosales.
Agana, Guam Archbishop Anthony Apuron; Most Rev. Giuseppe Pinto; the apostolic
nuncio in the Philippines; and Rome-based priest, Fr. Fernando Rojo, the main postulator
for Calungsods cause will also be around. Msgr. Villarojo said at least bishops,
cardinals, deacons and around 10,000 priests have confirmed to attend the event.
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During communion, Villarojo advised the people not to flock to the main altar.
They should stay put until they see a communion distributor marked by umbrellas, he
said.
Villarojo said there are 2,000 communion distributors. Of the number 1,600 are lay
ministers. They will be augmented by priests and nuns.
After the communion, Pinto, the papal nuncio, will deliver a message.
President Aquino, who sought the permission of the archdiocese so he can deliver his
message to the Filipinos, will have to make his piece after the Mass.
Fr. Raul Gallego, chairperson of the committee on venue, urged the people to bring along
radios, water, flashlights, food, candles, portable chairs, and umbrellas.
On the other hand, people are prohibited from bringing guns and bladed weapons.
After the Mass and the message of the president, a cultural presentation will be made.
This will be participated in by Pasigarbo sa Sugbo contingents from Minglanilla, Talisay
City, and Mandaue City. The Lumad Basakanon, who has reaped awards during the
Sinulog festivities, will also be part of the presentation.
Dinner for the special guests will be served at the Manila Hotel.

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Storm warning
RAINS are forecast for today in Metro Manila, probably accompanied by some gusty
winds. Tropical depression Luding has developed into a storm and it is expected to hit
land this morning in Northern Luzon.
But the stormy weather should not dampen the spirit of those who are going to the rally
on Ayala Avenue in Makati being led by anti-pork barrel groups. There are certainly
more pressing and nobler reasons to get drenched than paying respect to a religious leader
or stuffing oneself with lechon, roast calf and other delicacies which are expected to be in
abundance when El Shaddai founder and servant-leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde holds
belated birthday celebration for Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, international
president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva and the annual founding
anniversary celebration of the Evangelical Christian and Roman Catholic Charismatic
Renewal religious movement Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide to coincide with the
Ayala rally. Pork barrel groups have identified three of these reasons: to show the
people's opposition to amending the Constitution, to protest the resurgence of cronyism
and to oppose attempts to muzzle the press.
President Estrada has said nothing would deter him from pursuing charter change. He
says lifting the protectionist provisions in the Constitution, like the ones barring
foreigners from owning land, public utilities and media organizations, is the only way to
liberate millions of hungry Filipinos from their poverty. He even has the economic
benefits from such constitutional reforms all figured out: an automatic plus 4 percent in
GNP growth rate, although he has not said if that's only good for one year or until
forever.
No one else saw charter change as the miracle cure for the country's economic malaise. In
survey after survey, businessmen, both local and foreign, identified other factors as
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barriers to investments and growth: cronyism, an uneven playing field, peace and order
problems, bad traffic, government red tape, inconsistent economic policies, unattractive
incentives. In sum, practically everything under the sun, except the Constitution, and all
correctable with a little imagination from Congress and some determination from the
executive.
Fully 86 percent of the Filipino people see no need to change the Constitution, according
to a recent survey. Why Mr. Aquino and his political lieutenants in Congress would try to
ram charter changes through Congress only raises suspicion about some hidden agenda,
like term extension on the part of politicians and, on the part of Malacaang, the removal
of any constitutional barrier to forging a compromise deal with the Marcoses on the
sharing of their ill-gotten wealth.
The hush-hush attempts of the administration to strike a deal with the Marcoses and the
return of cronies to positions of power and privilege constitute the second reason for the
rally. When Ms Aquino speaks of preserving the gains of Edsa, she means freedom and
democracy as well as our pride and dignity. Two successive administrations looked
pathetic as they bungled the attempts to recover the Marcoses' ill-gotten wealth. The
nation was put up to ridicule with the election of Imelda Marcos to Congress in 2010 and
Ferdinand Jr. as Senator in 2010. Now the Aquino administration wants to complete a
nation's shame by absolving the plunderers of any crime and sharing the loot with them.
As to the return of cronies and cronyism, is there any doubt about it? Marcos closest
business associate is back at the helm of the country's biggest food and beverage
conglomerate. A tycoon who is often seen in Malacaang had a P25-billion tax case
against him dismissed. A presidential adviser got a $25-million commission for brokering
the buyout of the country's largest telecommunications company by a firm backed with
foreign money. A generous contributor to the Aquino campaign kitty won the award to
operate online bingo. Even Mr. Aquinos old friends from the movie industry are
scrambling for various government contracts. If these are Mr. Aquinos friends, they are
helping themselves at the President's expense.
Finally, there are the attempts of the administration to suppress criticism by initiating or
encouraging an advertising boycott of this paper by movie producers, government
financial institutions and friendly business interests and the exclusion of its reporters
from presidential press briefings. It's a different version of the corporate strangulation
that squeezed the life of The Manila Times. Mr. Aquino swears with his right hand to
defend with his life our freedoms, while strangling with his left a newspaper that seeks to
publish the unvarnished truth about his administration.
All this constitutes a smorgasbord of issues for everyone to chew on. But whichever issue
one feels strongly about, it is again time to take a stand. Mr. Aquino may yet listen to our
collective voices raised in protest.
There is a storm brewing, and it is not called Luding.
Traffic Re-Routing Plan for October 26, 2014 (Papal Visit and 36th Anniversary
Celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide)
On October 26, 2014, the following roads will be affected:
a) Roxas Boulevard (from P. Burgos to President Quirino Avenue) will be closed to
vehicular traffic from 7:30 A.M. to 12:30 P.M.
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b) President Quirino Avenue (from Roxas Boulevard to Taft Avenue) will be
closed to vehicular traffic from 7:30 A.M. to 9:00 P.M.
c) South Super Highway (from President Quirino Avenue to Buendia Avenue) and
Buendia Avenue (from South Super Highway to EDSA) will be closed to all
vehicular traffic from 4:00 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. and also from 8:30 P.M. to 9:00
P.M.
d) South Bound Lane of EDSA (from Guadalupe to Buendia Avenue) will be
closed to South Bound traffic from 4:00 P.M. - 4:30 P.M. and from 8:30 P.M. -
9:30 P.M.
All motorists are, therefore, advised to take the following re-routing scheme during the
period of traffic closure:
1. Southbound vehicles traversing Roxas Boulevard are advised to take Aduana-
Magallanes Drive - Padre Burgos route - Taft Avenue towards Buendia Avenue
and Roxas Boulevard.
2. Luneta-bound Vehicles traversing Roxas Boulevard are only up to Padre
Burgos-Taft Avenue-T.M. Kalaw Intersection junction.
3. Northbound vehicles using Roxas Boulevard-bound vehicles comBoulevard are
advised to take Buendia Avenue and/or Vito Cruz towards Taft Avenue or F.B.
Harrison/A. Mabini Street route.
4. Roxas Boulevard-bound vehicles coming from Northeast are advised to take
Canonigo Avenue-Taft Avenue-Padre Burgos or Jones Bridge towards their
Destination.
5. Southbound vehicles traversing South Super Highway are advised to take Pedro
Gil-Taft Avenue-Ayala Avenue and EDSA Route from 4:00 P.M.-4:30 P.M. as
well as Ayala Avenue and EDSA route from 4:00 P.M.-4:30 P.M. & from 8:30
P.M.-9:30 P.M.
6. Roxas Boulevard-bound vehicles coming from the Southeast will be advised to
take Tejeron-J.P. Rizal-Pasong Tamo-Vito Cruz extension towards Vito Cruz to
Taft Avenue or Roxas Boulevard from 7:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M.
7. Northbound lane of EDSA (from Boni Avenue to Buendia Avenue will be
converted to 2-way traffic and Southbound vehicles counter-flowing to EDSA
North lane from 4:00 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. and from 8:30 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
8. Northbound Light Vehicles along EDSA are advised to take Fort Bonifacio via
McKinley Road and exit at Guadalupe Bridge from 4:00 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. and
from 8:30 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
9. Southbound Light Vehicles along EDSA may take Guadalupe Bridge their right
turn towards J. P. Rizal and exit at the Makati Avenue-Ayala Avenue and back to
EDSA.
10. Northbound Vehicles traversing South Superhighway will be advised to take
Taft Avenue or the EDSA-Ayala Avenue-Makati Avenue-J.P. Rizal-Tejeron-
Pedro Gil route towards President Quirino Avenue Extension from 4:00 P.M. to
4:30 P.M. and from 8:30 P.M.-9:30 P.M.
Participants to the Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Anniversary Celebration, devotees to
the Papal Visit or ordinary motorists may help de-congest heavy traffic or ask for
assistance from the:
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OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN HON. ATTY. FRANCIS N. TOLENTINO - 882-
4154 to 74 loc. 205; 207
OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY CHAIRMAN Usec. ALEX RAMON Q.
CABANILLA - 882-4154 loc. 282
TRAFFIC ENGINEERING CENTER Dir. Noemie T. Recio Director III - 882-
0858
Jesus is Lord Church Anniversary Celebration on GMA-7
Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide celebrates 36th Anniversary as Bro. Eddie Villanueva
celebrates his 81st birthday last October 6 and Pope Francis delivers his message to the
People of the World.
In a mass that will be concelebrated by more than thousands of archbishops, bishops,
monsignors, pastors and priests. His Holiness will bless the participants as well the next
venue again for this annual event.
Millions of television viewers from around the world will witness this historical occasion
as GMA Channel 7 does a live coverage starting at 7:30 a.m., October 26, Sunday.
A recap of the day's festivities will be aired at 11:30 p.m. right after Sunday Night Box
Office.
More than 5 million people from the Philippines and around the world look forward to
this momentous event as the highlight of their month-long festivities.
We are not afraid (By Ma. Ceres P. Doyo)
Manila, Philippines, October 27, 2014 (I NQUI RER) - MR. PRESIDENT does not
worry about us being afraid. We have been threatened by experts. We have faced bullets
outside the silver screen and faced down tanks with only rosaries in our hands.
Former President Fidel V. Ramoss voice reverberated yesterday in Makati City as an
estimated 70,000 marched in unison and stood shoulder to shoulder to denounce Charter
change now, suppression of press freedom, compromise with the Marcoses, and
cronyism.
In a rally of a magnitude not seen since the decline of the Marcos dictatorship, Paner and
Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle exhorted pro-democracy advocates to
preserve the gains of Edsa, and sent a stinging message of no surrender to President
Benigno Aquino III.
Other, as fervent, mass actions were held simultaneously in major cities in Luzon,
Visayas and Mindanao, drawing an estimated total of 160,000 people.
Aquino and Sin did not mince words in getting their message across.
Addressing the President, Ramos said: We will not surrender the guarantees of freedom
and good government for which we paid so dearly. We will not allow those who
plundered our country to return to power no matter who they think their best friend is.
Warned Tagle in Filipino: Mag-ingat ang mga may masasamang balak para sa
kalayaan. Lalaban kami. Hindi kami uurong (To those hatching sinister moves against
freedom, I say beware. We shall fight. We shall never surrender).
The Ayala business center, site of anti-Marcos rallies in the 1980s, turned yellow once
again as a continuous downpour of confetti competed with sudden rains.
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Elected officials, Church and grassroots leaders joined the pork barrel groups on the stage
set up in front of the bronze statue of slain husband, former Sen. Benigno ''Ninoy''
Aquino Jr. at the corner of Ayala Avenue and Paseo de Roxas.
The Cardinal's spokesperson, Atty. Hernando Cabrera told the INQUIRER that Sin was
very happy and very proud of the turnout at Ayala.
The turnout of 70,000 was estimated by the INQUIRER based on the ground area of
streets occupied, at the density rate of two persons per square meter.
A strong moral message has been sent. Democracy is alive and well. People came in big
numbers in bad weather. This is a good sign, said Makati Business Club chair Guillermo
Luz.
Former Solicitor General Francisco Chavez said: These are the preliminary stirrings of
potential unrest.
One has to give in, and I am sure that the rallyists (at Ayala) did not brave the rains just
to give in. This is a strong message that they would not be cowed into submission.
Chavez attended the Ayala rally with Peter Muller, one of the foreign witnesses who
testified on the $13.2-billion Swiss account allegedly held by Irene Marcos Araneta.
Issue
The issue is not whether to remove the economic provisions of the Constitution, Ramos
said.
The issue is whether these are all we stand to lose--or we may well ask: Will cherished
rights and liberties be lost as well?
Ramos was referring to Mr. Aquinos assurances that only economic and not political
provisions in the Constitution would be amended.
The issue is not whether the Charter should be changed, but why now, when
Malacaang admits it does not yet know what should be changed, Aquino said, citing
more pressing problems that needed to be addressed.
Why now, when not only are kidnapping and bank robbery on the rise, and drug
addiction and drug dealing at an all-time high, but agents of the National Bureau of
Investigation are into car (theft)? Their building even blew itself up. Are these not more
disturbing concerns for foreign investors? she added.
Tagle who usually speaks in English, spoke in strong Filipino this time: Narito tayo
para sabihin sa lahat: Hindi na kami papayag na lokohin muli. Natuto na kami. Hindi na
kami papayag paglaruan ng kahit sino ang ating kalayaan.Pinaghirapan natin ito (We
are here to tell everyone: We will not allow ourselves to be fooled again. We have
learned our lesson. We will never allow freedom to be manipulated by anybody. We have
suffered a lot for it).''
To Mr. Aquinos statements that the protests against Charter change were causing
division, Tagle said: The source of all disorder is Cha-cha. If there is no Cha-cha, then
the nation will be at peace.
He added: The root of our economic problems is not Charter change. Corruption in
government is the cause. Investors' money is wasted in bribes and payola. If the
government is clean and honest, even if there are many restrictions in the Constitution
investors will come because they know they will get a fair deal.
Promises
Quoting Archbishop Socrates Villegas, head of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the
Philippines, the Cardinal said changing the Constitution was certainly not in the
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campaign promises of those now elected in office, and that in fact, they even solemnly
swore before God to follow the Constitution and protect it.
Sin noted that the Constitution was always being toyed with if there were economic and
political problems, or if the Philippines had to show its indebtedness to foreigners.
Kawawa naman ang Konstitusyon. Ginagamit nating palusot (Poor Constitution. It is
always used as a scapegoat), he said.
He added: ''Is Charter change the answer to political problems? The problem is political
ambition. Politicians say they cannot do much because their term is short. We say: If they
cannot do anything in a short period, they can't do anything even if they prolong their
term. If they are lazy and corrupt during their first term, they will be lazy the next time.''
Then he exclaimed: Tama na! Palitan agad ang mga corrupt at tamad sa
gobyerno (Enough! Remove the corrupt and the lazy in government at once)!
Ramos assailed those surrounding the President, saying: ''The issue is trust. Not trust in
the President but in the company he keeps. I trust the President. But who can trust the
people who stepped out of the police lineup of the People Power Revolution?
She pointed out: ''Of course, we should not be telling the President what kind of company
to keep. But he cannot expect us not to worry when he tinkers with the Constitution given
the company he keeps.
''We are not saying that this administration is like the Marcos regime, but we do have
cause to worry, because even George Hamilton is back. The characters in power today
are the ones the people threw out yesterday.''
Hollywood actor Hamilton, a close friend of Imelda Marcos, is said to be a beneficiary of
the Marcos largesse. He is reported to have borrowed huge sums of money from the
former first lady.
Back again
''The Marcoses and their cronies lost every election for national office,'' Aquino said.
''But they are back again because of a popular President who did not say in the campaign
that he was taking them with him. Maybe he did not know. But they appear to be back in
and trying to grab everything they stole.''
She took up Mr. Aquinos biblical-sounding assurance Be not afraid,'' saying: Yes, Mr.
President, we are not afraid . . . But you are too trusting for our country's own good.
But trust me, Mr. President, we are not afraid.
Aquino enumerated threatening instances, and stressed that fear had never gotten in the
way.
But she cited things of which we are afraidevils that may tear up the country again''
and ''the past breaking loose in the present with a Marcos restoration.
Mr. President, she said, ''it is not just the future, but the present that calls for courage,
clarity of vision and concord.
It calls for vigilance against the return of a past this nation paid so high a price--in
blood, tears and wasted years--to escape.
Ramos also spoke of freedom of the press and her own experiences of it.
Ramos had earlier made the assurance that the pro-democracy rally was not against the
Presidents person.
Yesterday, he issued a similar assurance: This is not a fight against him. He has been
President only one year. He was only representative of Tarlac, senator and now
President.
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This is a fight against a 14-year dictatorship and a dark legacy that refuses to die.
'Magical'
Among those present at the rally was Rene Saguisag, who briefly served as Aquino's
spokesperson and legal adviser.
Saguisag described the mood of the rally as euphoric and ''magical,'' and a celebration
of the Edsa spirit.
The former senator recalled the various campaign rallies in February 1986 on Ayala,
which also drew huge crowds.
But it was nothing like this. Then, it was personality-oriented and the weather was
divine. Now (the weather) is feisty. At the time, Marcos was universally despised. This
time we are up against a popular President,'' he said.
The turnout is incredible--the palpable excitement, the sense of commitment. It is
delightful to be present at the reconvening of the parliament of the streets when you are
betrayed by your President.
Saguisag said the rally had delivered its message to Mr. Aquino.
The people should exercise from time and time the sovereign right to speak directly to
the leadership and deliver the kind of message that we thought we did this afternoon, he
said.
We had the number, the quality, the entire spectrum, walang hakot.
Satur Ocampo, former spokesperson of the communist-led National Democratic Front,
said it was the first time that various issues converged and attracted a united front.
A broad front, not only the traditional politicians, not only the Left but also sections in
the business community, the basic masses, are united here in the registration of a basic
opposition, Ocampo said.
There is a very strong message against the return of the Marcoses, or a Marcos style of
government.
Ocampo warned the President against being headstrong regarding Charter change and
pursuing his tough stance against the press.
If that is his response, he is asking for an intensification of confrontation with the
people. Even Cory and Sin have said that he should step aside for the people, Ocampo
said.
He is asking for trouble. This is as a warning to him.
Jose Ma. Sison, NDF chief political consultant, had a stronger message: A broad united
front should strive to oust the Aquino ruling circle from power and replace it with a
government of national unity and people's democracy.
Conviction
Fr. Monching Carillo, a parish priest of San Pedro, Laguna, said that if it came to a
contest, the Ayala rally won over the El Shaddai gathering at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal
Park in time for the pastoral visit of Pope Francis here in the Philippines on October 23 to
27.
It's not the numbers, but the conviction, Carillo told the INQUIRER.
He said the people who braved the rains and other difficulties to join the rally showed the
strength of their conviction against the issues raised.
We came here because we are against Charter change, for one. We did not come
for lechon, he added.
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The CBCP said the rallies nationwide were very successful despite the inclement
weather.
There's no way of giving an exact estimate. All the rally venues in the major provincial
cities were all filled to capacity, said Msgr. Hernando Coronel, a CBCP spokesperson.
Coronel also said the Philippine National Police's estimate that 9,000 people were at the
Ayala rally was unbelievable.
Maybe that's the number of policemen they deployed, he said.
Dirty tricks
Certain sectors made a last-ditch effort to prevent people from joining the Ayala rally by
distributing leaflets indicating that communists were behind the mass action.
The 6-by-8 leaflets, circulated in various government offices, including police and
military camps in Quezon City, contained a seven-line invitation to join the Ramos-
Cardinal Tagle Rally and put an end to the Aquino regime.
On the leaflets were pictures of three top officials of the NDF and Communist Party of
the Philippines--Sison, Luis Jalandoni and Gregorio ''Ka Roger'' Rosal.
People who got a leaflet said it was apparently intended to sow fear among would-be
rally participants. With reports from Donna S. Cueto, Dona Pazzibugan and Dave
Veridiano
160,000 rally outside Metro
Manila, Philippines, October 27, 2014 - SOME 160,000 people outside Metro Manila
heeded the call of the Catholic bishops and former President Fidel V. Ramos to join the
pro-democracy rallies in time for the pastoral visit of Pope Francis here in Manila.
Neither strong rains nor winds brought about by Typhoon Luding prevented protesters
from joining the marches in Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon. Dripping wet, many
trudged on under the banner of their organizations.
But others sought refuge in churches and covered gymnasiums where they held the
rallies.
In the Visayas and Mindanao, protesters were greeted with generally fair weather. But
their opposition to Charter change, threats to press freedom and the return of Marcos
cronies were not as less intense as that of their counterparts in Luzon.
LUZON: Protest marches held in the eye of the typhoon
PROTESTERS in Ilocos Sur, La Union, Baguio City, Pangasinan, Nueva Vizcaya and
Pampanga braved the heavy downpour and strong winds to protest the government's
proposal to change the Constitution and scrap the pork barrel.
About 500 protesters, including teachers and students, carrying anti-Charter change
placards and umbrellas marched on Session Road in Baguio City.
Others chose to march without their umbrellas and rain gear, ignoring the heavy
downpour that drenched their bodies.
Baguio-Benguet Bishop Carlito J. Cenzon, C.I.C.M. said there might be a pro-democracy
rally after October 26. ''We believe that there is a need to change our Constitution but this
is not the right time for it. I still don't want to be an alien in my homeland,'' he said.
Dripping wet, Jeanette Ribaya of the Cordillera multi-sectoral alliance, said Cha-cha was
a threat to national sovereignty and patrimony.
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More than 1,000 members of religious, student and civic groups disregarded the rains to
support the pro-democracy rallies in Candon and Vigan towns in Ilocos Sur.
Telephone brigade
In Ilocos Norte, the Catholic Church offered Masses in all parishes in support of the rally.
Some sectors lit candles in front of their homes while other groups formed a telephone
brigade asking friends to call television stations conducting a poll survey to register their
vote against Charter change.
Despite the possibility of flash floods, current Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan
and some 1,000 residents went to Makati to join the rally.
About 600 protesters belonging to the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) and ally
organizations staged a protest rally at the city proper.
Members of the Kilusan para sa Pambansang Demokrasya (KPD) in Central Luzon sang
their version of Que rico Vacelon, a popular cha-cha tune, before proceeding to Makati.
Jay-Ar Hipolito and Mel Soto, artists from the KPD's Teatrong Bayan, said they wrote
the song to help the people get the basic point of Charter change.
Prayers
Anti Cha-cha rallies in Isabela were called off after Typhoon Luding hit Cagayan Valley.
Instead, the groups held silent prayers inside churches.
Isabela bishops, priests and members of the Catholic Church signed a manifesto rejecting
Charter change, calling it demonic and hellish.
In La Union, Bishop Rodolfo Beltran of the diocese of San Fernando asked some 400 lay
people, Catholic school principals and school administrators to resist efforts of the
administration to amend the Charter.
Despite the downpour, people from the Ilocos, Cagayan Valley and Cordilleras gathered
without fanfare at the Saint Louis College gymnasium to echo the Church position on
Charter change, cronyism and press freedom.
The gathering was led by representatives from the Catholic Educators Association of the
Philippines and the Basic Ecclesial Communities in Northern Luzon.
During the Mass concelebrated by 11 priests from Northern Luzon, Tobias bewailed the
lack of transparency and the use of deceit by the Benigno Aquino III administration in
pushing for Charter change.
In Pangasinan, civic-oriented and religious groups held a motorcade despite the bad
weather. At 5 p.m., they led a noise barrage in Dagupan City.
Protesters in a convoy of at least 100 vehicles held a motorcade in Bayombong.
Church bells in Bicol
At least 10,000 people joined the rallies in Bicol.
The March-Bicol (Movement against Revision of the CharterBicol) in Albay was
attended by about 5,000 people.
Starting at three points, they braved a short rain and started moving at 1 p.m. amid the
pealing of church bells.
They started gathering in the morning at the St. Raphael Church and the Redemptorist
Church in Legazpi City and the Ninoy Aquino Park in Daraga town.
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The marchers, mostly students, converged at Pearanda where ecumenical prayers and
messages from sectoral representatives were delivered.
Two of their streamers read: Pilipino Muna Bago Dayuhan, Huwag Baguhin ang
Konstitusyon, and Crony mo, ihulog mo na sa impiyerno.
In Sorsogon, bells rang in all churches at 6 a.m. and Masses were held simultaneously.
Priests enjoined the faithful to participate in the rallies. The assembly point in the capital
town was at the Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral.
Some 1,000 protesters led by Bayan attended the activity.
Earlier on Thursday, as part of the build-up activities for yesterday's rally, a press forum
was organized jointly by Bayan and the 15-year-old Sorsogon's Independent Media
Reporters Inc. to discuss possible actions against the continuing attacks on press
freedom.
In Naga City, about 2,000 participants joined the rally led by Bayan and the Pandayan
para sa Sosyalistang Pilipinas.
Some 2,000 people led by People's Resist against Tyranny staged their own protest action
in Iriga City.
Three schools in the small upland town of Buhi in Camarines Sur--St. Bridget's
Academy, Buhi Lyceum and St. Joseph Academy--held their own protest activity.
A Churchled group also held a Solidarity rally in Daet, Camarines Norte.
Residents of Quezon province held a rally on Wednesday. Close to 10,000 people
attended the mammoth protest rally on Wednesday in Lucena City.
In Baler, Aurora, BayanAurora distributed leaflets as gesture of support to the nationwide
rallies. Though no protest action was launched, various Church-led organizations earlier
voiced out support to the rally.--Reports from Catherine Aquino, Estanislao Caldez,
Melissa Curameng, Leander Domingo, Gia Dumo, Kira Espino, Yolanda Fuertes,
Peter La. J ulian, J uliet Pascual, I melda Visaya and Villamor Visaya J r., PDI Northern
Luzon Bureau; Bert Basa, J un Malig and Tonette Orejas, PDI Central Luzon Desk;
and J uan Escandor, Rey Nasol, Reynaldo T. J amoralin and Delfin T. Mallari J r., PDI
Southern Luzon Bureau
MINDANAO: Bishop says Aquino must listen to the people
PROTESTERS in Davao City wore white ribbons to symbolize their ''pure intentions'' in
demanding an end to moves to amend the Charter.
During the march, motorcycle-riding workers from the Kilusang Mayo Uno, took the
lead, waving red, blue and white flags.
Some placards, carried by high school students read: Promote life, dump Concord,
Ang Concord di maayo sa atong isig katawo, and Foreign investors make Filipinos
poor.'' Nuns carried a streamer which read ''Cha-cha is morally sinful.
Davao Archbishop-Emeritus Fernando Capalla and Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles
said 40,000 attended the rally. ''If he wants to serve the people, he must listen,'' he said of
President Benigno Aquino III.
Capalla disclosed that Mr. Aquino phoned him Monday about his pastoral letter which
said that the proposed Charter changes were ''outright oppressive'' and ''morally sinful.''
The archbishop said he stood by his statements.
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In Iligan City, Archbishop Elenito de los Reyes Galido told about 1,000 protesters that
the Filipino people should fear Mr. Aquinos promise to change only the economic
aspects of the Charter.
Galido called Mr. Aquino III a liar.
In Cagayan de Oro City, some 400 people marched from the Vicente de Lara Park to the
city center yesterday morning.
At 2 p.m., about 500 students and faculty and university officials conducted a prayer-rally
inside the Xavier University campus.
Msgr. Rey Monsanto, vicar general of the archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, said the
attacks on press freedom were ''immoral and unjust.'' He said the right to free expression
and the right to a free and independent press were God-given and must be upheld.
Kidapawan Bishop said his opposition to the Cha-cha was based on ''faith and moral
ground.''
The plan to change the Constitution ''will put the people at the losing end,'' he said,
adding that the ''unrestricted coming of foreign capitalists in the country will only cause
harm to the economy.
Simplicia Delada, spokesperson of Cause-Davao del Sur, said some 5,000 people joined
the rally in Digos, Davao del Sur. Police, however, placed the number at 1,000.
In General Santos City, some 500 protesters expressed disgust over what they called the
imperious attitude of the administration of Mayor Adelbert Antonino for preventing
them to use the Carlos Garcia Park in front of the City Hall.
Around 20 El Shaddai members joined some 1,500 people in the rally against Charter
change in Iligan City.
Heavy rains since yesterday morning spoiled the plan of Western Mindanao's anti-
Charter change and pork barrel protesters to gather in Pagadian City.
Some 120 houses were submerged in waist-deep waters for about three hours Friday
afternoon.
Rallies in the cities of Zamboanga, Dipolog, Oroquieta and Ozamiz were cancelled,
according to a statement of the Alyansang Makabayan in Western Mindanao.
In Dipolog City, at least 1,000 residents joined a prayer rally to denounce the alleged
return of Marcosian rule and the administration's effort to amend the Constitution.
The rally, which started at 1 p.m., was disrupted by a power outage. Power was restored
only at 4:50 p.m., after the rally.
The power outage gripped the entire province of Zamboanga del Norte.
Bishop Jose Manguiran of the Diocese of Dipolog told the crowd that Charter change
would do more harm than good to the Filipino people.--Reports from J owel F.
Canuday, Ayan C. Mellejor, Rex Godinez-Ortega, Roney C. Pacilan, Bobby Timonera,
J B Deveza, Larry C. Agpalo, Allan A. Nawal, Aquiles Z. Zonio and Hernan P. de la
Cruz, PDI Mindanao Bureau
VISAYAS: Palma writes down speech so he wont be misquoted
DO NOT touch the Constitution!
With this call, Cebu Archbishop Jose Cardinal Palma rallied the people to be vigilant
against any moves to amend the Constitution.
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Palmas call was echoed in at least nine key cities in the Visayas where simultaneous
marches and rallies brought to the streets six Catholic Church bishops, including Vidal,
and some 95,000 people.
We must be vigilant. Let as make our voice heard and we must speak out, Palma said
in Cebuano to a cheering crowd of 15,000 who took part in the pro-democracy rally at the
Fuente Osmea Oval in Cebu City.
In Bacolod City, a crowd of 60,000 led by Current Bacolod Bishop Vicente Navarra
braved the rain and marched on the city's main plaza to denounce moves to amend the
Constitution.
The protest actions also drew 8,000 in Iloilo City; 5,000 in Kabankalan City (Negros
Occidental), 3,000 in San Carlos City (Negros Occ.), 1,500 in Tagbilaran City, 1,000 in
Kalibo, 1,000 in Dumaguete City, and 500 in Ormoc City.
Some El Shaddai members in Iloilo showed they had a mind of their own. About 20 El
Shaddai members from the town of Batorac Viejo joined the anti-Charter change rally in
Iloilo City.
Early in his speech, Palma said he wrote his message and read it to the crowd ''so that
nobody will misinterpret what I truly think and feel.''
This drew laughter among some of the protesters who remembered the conflicting
versions of what transpired during the meeting between President Benigno Aquino III
and the archbishop on the BRP Ang Pangulo on August 5 in Cebu.
The President had quoted Vidal as saying there was press freedom under the Aquino
administration. Vidal denied this, saying he was only referring to state of press freedom
in Cebu.
The President also said Vidal promised to help explain the administration's proposed
constitutional reforms. This was also belied by Vidal who reiterated his stand against
constitutional changes at this time.
We are not against anybody, Vidal stressed. We are only for something.
We are for our country's patrimony, we are for economic sovereignty, we are for the
entire Filipino people's civil and political liberties, he said.
Vidal criticized globalization, saying this would only worsen the misery of the Filipino
people.
He said globalization was being backed by greedy men supported by laws such as the
Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Law, Banking Sector Reform Law, Omnibus
Power Sector Act, Retail Trade Liberalization Act and other private transnational
interests.
The weather in Cebu was overcast but there was no downpour, only a light short drizzle
and balmy winds.
Palma attributed the good weather to God's graces.
The Cebu rally also brought together former anti-Marcos street parliamentarians,
including former Assemblywoman Nenita Cortes-Daluz and former Cebu City
congressman Antonio Cuenco.
Bacolod
In Bacolod City, the protesters represented a cross section of Negros society. They
included workers, students and hacienda owners.
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While Bacolod Bishop Vicente Navarra was not at the rally, Fortich gave the crowd the
moral boost they needed.
We are gathered together to inform the people that this is not the time for change, this is
the time for implementing programs for the poor, he said.
Noynoy promised to be for the poor but has failed to fulfill his promise, Fortich said.
We do not want to give a chance for a social volcano to destroy the structures of
democracy again, he said.
Navarra said Mike Velarde and Eddie Villanuevas holding an affair at the same time as
the anti-Cha-cha rally showed a defect in his character.
This is not a contest of popularity. This is a question of showing loyalty to the
Constitution, showing loyalty to the church, Fortich said.
In Iloilo City, Msgr. Jose Gamboa, administrator of the Jaro Archdiocese, called on the
President to listen to the people, who he said, were against Cha-cha.
Some 500 members of Bayan staged a separate rally at the Freedom Grandstand near the
Iloilo City Hall.
In Tacloban City, the protest action came in the form of a forum on Charter change,
initiated by the Freedom from Debt Coalition-Leyte Island Chapter (FDC-LIC).
In Kalibo, Bishop Jose Corazon Tala-oc led the some 1,000 participants in a rally at the
Pastrana Park.
We had been fooled before. Let us not allow ourselves to get fooled again, was the gist
of his message.
In Kabankalan City, about 5,000 persons led by Bishop Patricio Abella Buzon attended
the rally at the public plaza amid slight drizzle at 10 a.m.
He called on those who attended the rally to sign petitions against Charter change and to
send these to President Benigno Aquino III, the Congress and to local officials.
He also asked the Kabankalan residents not to remove anti-Cha-cha streamers posted in
public places and in the homes so the protests will continue to be felt.
We will continue (our anti-Cha-cha protests) even after today,'' he said.
In San Carlos City, about 3,000 people attended an anti-Charter change Mass officiated
by Fr. Alfredo Quiniquitio, judicial vicar of the Diocese of San Carlos, at the San Carlos
Borromeo Cathedral.
After the Mass, the people marched around the city to drum up support for the anti-
Charter change rally.
In Ormoc, students made up the bulk of those who took part in the rally. Reports by
Piedad Y. Gonzalez, Froilan Gallardo, Cynthia A. Borgueta, Carla P. Gomez, Vicente
S. Labro, Nereo C. Lujan, Romy G. Amarado, Chito A. Fuentes, Odon S. Bandiola and
Recto I . Vidal, PDI Visayas Bureau
References:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Catholic_Diocese_of_San_Fernando_de_La
_Union, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Catholic_Diocese_of_Bacolod,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Catholic_Diocese_of_Kabankalan
Millions packed Luneta for the Papal Mass.
They always start the gathering at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila on Saturday,
October 25 commences at 3:00 p.m. with the opening number, a prayer by the members
of the various religious groups and the singing of the Philippine national anthem.
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At 8:00 P.M. the Vigil with the Pope: The Pope arrived at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal
Park to celebrate a Eucharistic adoration.
11:00pm when Night in Rizal Park: From early in the morning, participants arrived at
Cuatro Vientos, but were not able to adore the Eucharist as planned because of the storm
that damaged the chapels. The stage was designed by Francisco Manosa, an Philippine
architect who had assisted with World Youth Day celebrations during the time of John
Paul II.
The number of people attending exceeded expectations, which means more land had to be
found round the edges to accommodate the people. An estimated 5,000,000 were in the
Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila at seven o'clock in the evening, which made this
the largest and the grandest annual Roman Catholic event ever staged in the Philippines.
Many pilgrims walked from the centre of Manila (12.6 km), although extra public
transport was put on.
The Pope arrived and a cross was carried in procession to the altar. Several young people
were picked to ask questions to the Pope, but a sudden thunderstorm and high winds,
meant that the Pope's address had to be communicated to the crowd in written form.
The Pope resumed the adoration of the Eucharist, after the rain, although with a shortened
programme. A mass with distribution of the Eucharist to many in the crowd had to be
reduced in dimension.
Many stayed during the night, and the Sunday morning mass took on a larger dimension
to make up for the day before.
Some who were at the Rizal Park as early as 6:00 A.M., Sunday, October 26 seemed
tireless, singing songs of praises over and over again.
JIL Anniversary organizers taught all those present at the vigil the melodies, along with
hand movements, of all the songs in booklets distributed early in the day.
Unfortunately, not all of them seemed to be aware of the real purpose of the Vigil. Those
assigned at shady and darker areas of the Park were sleeping as 7:00 a.m. while others
satisfied themselves playing cards, eating and listening to the radio while a mass ongoing.
Before noon of October 6, in observance of Bro. Eddies birthday, the attendees feasted
on hamburgers, cheeseburgers, fried chicken, French fries, roasted chickens, pigs and
calves as a gift of the family and friends for his birthday celebration.
IN THE end, there was not enough hamburgers, cheeseburgers, fried chicken, French
fries, roasted calf, pig and chicken to go around, but neither that nor heavy rains seemed
to dampen the spirits of the massive throng which packed 61-heactre (610,000 square
meter) Rizal Park for the grand annual birthday celebration of Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva.
The much-touted free meals of roasted pig, calf and chicken, crispy fried chicken, pizza,
doughnuts, mojos, burgers, Palabok, lasagna, spaghetti, French fries, criss-cut fries, ice
creams, pies, loafs, ensaymada, rolls, soups and salads from SM City Manilas SM
Supermarket section at the lower ground floor and 42 food tenants and were served
around 11 a.m. In less than an hour, all of the 11 roasted calves and other foods at one
booth beside Quirino Grandstand were picked to the bone.
At some food booths, though, people were turned away by the smell of some roasted
calves, pigs, chickens, pizza, doughnuts, mojos, burgers, Palabok, lasagna, spaghetti,
French and criss-cut fries, ice creams, pies, loafs, ensaymada, rolls, soups and salads
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which were only half-cooked and foods which were from 42 fast-food restaurants of SM
City Manila shopping mall.
But even this did not deter a few eager devotees who took some raw ribs just the same.
This can still be cooked at home, said a Pampanga resident, who said he didn't want to
miss the lechon either.
Crowd estimates varied from 300,000 (according to the INQUIRER measurement of the
land area of Rizal Park and crowd density), to 700,000 (according to a police officer) to
two million (according to the El Shaddai emcee). The slaughtered cow population was
estimated at 120 and the cooked pigs at several thousands, according to El Shaddai
DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International founder and servant-leader Bro. Mike Z.
Velarde.
They should declare October 6 a national holiday, because Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva is
celebrating his birthday!'' exclaimed Elma Baldoz, 43, an El Shaddai devotee who had
traveled from Pangasinan with her family and a couple of neighbors in a rented jeepney
which doubled as their sleeping quarters for the grand annual weekend extravaganza.
A group of Aetas from Zambales, last in line at one of nearly a hundred food distribution
booths, had to be content with morsels, but they didn't seem to mind. This is a blessing
from Yahweh El Shaddai, an Aeta elderly said.
In the VIP lounge at the Quirino grandstand, the birthday celebrant's celebrity guests
were a little more blessed, as they partook of an eight-course lauriat.
The VIP feast was made up of birthday seafood noodles, steamed lobster with garlic,
double-boiled sharks' fin soup with abalone and chicken, braised whole Australian
abalone, Peking duck, braised eel with sea cucumber and minced duck with lettuce.
Dessert included fresh fruit and pastries, cookies and cream ube, mango and pandan ice
cream, crema de fruta and fruit salad.
The celebritiy guests were at the Manila Hotel are 300 Kapamilya stars, Iya Villania and
Drew Arellano, Bianca Manalo, Sitti Navarro, Jasmine Curtis Smith, James Blanco, Eric
Tai, K Brosas, Claudine Barretto and Raymart Santiago, Randy Santiago, Bamboo
Manalac, Binibining Pilipinas 2013 winners Cindy Miranda and Pia Romero, Miss
International 2013 Bea Rose Santiago, Miss Universe 2013 3rd Runner-Up Ariella Arida,
Katherine de Castro-Cruz, Oyo Boy Sotto, Rowell Santiago, Dominique Cojuangco, Dina
Bonnevie with husband Ilocos Sur Vice-Governor Deogracias Victor Savellano, Jericho
Rosales, apl.de.ap, Eddie Garcia and Richard Gomez, Former Professional Models
Association of the Philippines board members and fashion luminaries Tina Maristela
Ocampo, Izza Gonzales-Agana, Desiree Verdadero-Abesamis, Marina Benipayo, Patty
Betita, Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, Den Abesamis, Hans Montenegro, Grace Molina and
Ariel Atendido, Robert Mananquil, models Robby Mananquil, and Raya Mananquil-de
Leon, and Rissa Mananquil-Trillo with Valerie de los Santos; Ateneo de Manila
University Blue Eagles team manager Paolo Trillo; Current Professional Models
Association of the Philippines president Phoemela Baranda also came with Manilas
favourite models Grace Tagle, Bubbles Paraiso, Luke Jickain, Mia Ayesa, Sanya Smith,
Mika Lagdameo-Martinez, Antoinette Enciso-Ocampo, Angel Agustin-Co and Marilen
Faustino-Montenegro The Philippine STAR columnists RJ Ledesma, Stephanie Zubiri-
Crespi, and Tim Yap, The Philippine STAR Lifestyle section editor Millet Martinez-
Mananquil, Philippine Daily INQUIRER Lifestyle section editor Thelma Sioson-San
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Juan, Meralco Bolts coach Norman Black, Ateneo mens basketball coach Bo Perasol and
his players Kiefer Ravena, Thirdy Ravena, Von Pessumal, Ponso Gotladera, Kris Porter,
Anton Asistio, Isaac Jules Lim, Chris Newsome and Nico Elorde, former players Doug
Kramer, JC Intal, Macky Escalona, Gec Chia, Paolo Bugia, Nico Salva, Bacon Austria,
Ryan Buenafe, Justin Chua, Tonino Gonzaga, Emman Monfort, Juami Tiongson, Frank
Golla, Oping Sumalinog, JP Erram, Jason Escueta, Eric Salamat, Noy Baclao, Rabeh Al-
Hussani and Jai Reyes, Sen. Bong Revilla Jr., William Lao, Mother Lily Monterverde,
Shirley Kuan, Deedee Sytangco, Sec. Sonny Coloma, Beth Tagle, Rep. Dax and Midy
Cua, Dolly Anne Carvajal-Mendoza, Lily Layug, Arthur Manuntag, Christine Singson,
Grace Singson, Tess Daza, Jackie Aquino-Gavino, Joy Melendrez, Tonypet Albano,
Maricar Bhel, Representatives Uliran Joaquin, Hermilando Mandanas, Annie Susano and
Butch Dumpit, Vanessa Francisco, Annabelle Rama-Gutierrez, Boots Anson-Roa, Snow
Tago, Charmaine Yu, Greg Yu, Edmund Lim and Ramon Jacinto, OPM Commissioner
Ogie Alcasid, Jake Cuenca, Coco Martin, model and television host Bianca Gonzales and
Jim Paredes, economist and former NEDA secretary general Solita Collas-Monsod, actor
Robin Padilla with his wife Mariel Rodriguez and brother Rommel, noontime game and
variety television show host Willie Revillame, 1969 Miss Universe Gloria Diaz, Father
and son Pen and Ping Medina, Celebrity cousins Isabelle Daza and Georgina Wilson, JC
Tiuseco, Gelli de Belen, Vicki Belo, Gretchen Ho, John Lapus, singer Kean Cipriano,
Comedienne Candy Pangilinan, with friends Arnell Ignacio, film and television directors
Jose Javier Reyes and Manny Castaeda, Ramon Bautista, TV host Raymond Gutierrez,
Mae Paner, Pinky Amador, Leo Valdez, Noel Trinidad and Jun Urbano, Judy Ann Santos
and Ryan Agoncillo, Maricel Soriano, Ruffa Gutierrez, Rustom Padilla, German Moreno
and Gardo Verzosa, 1986 EDSA veterans Leah Navarro, Mitch Valdez, and Maan
Hontiveros, Megastar Sharon Cuneta and Kiko Pangilinan, Kris Aquino, Charlene
Gonzalez, Christopher de Leon and Sandy Andolong, Rez Cortez, William Martinez and
Yayo Aguila, Lani Mercado-Revilla, Lorna Tolentino-Fernandez, Tirso Cruz III and wife
Lyn and son Bodie, Eric Quizon, G. Toengi and Romnick Sarmenta, Kuh Ledesma,
Grace Nono, Louie Heredia and Dingdong Avanzado, Philip Salvador, Smokey
Manaloto, Beth Tamayo, Antoniette Taus and basketball stars, Sunshine Cruz, Gladys
Reyes-Roxas, Daisy Reyes, Rufa Mae Quinto, Isabel Granada, and Candy Pangilinan,
Bro. Eddie Villanueva presidential campaign supporters Coney Reyes, Karla Martinez,
Piolo Pascual, Dolphy Quizon, Jr., Donita Rose, Nonoy Zuniga and Prof. Jeremias
Jangad, Hawak-Kamay cast members Nikki Gil, Zaijian Jaranilla, Xyriel Manabat,
Andrea Brillantes, Yesha Camile, JM de Guzman, Juan Karlos Labajo and Lyca
Gairanod, Axel Torres, Maris Racal, Manolo Pedrosa and Nichole Baranda, PBA
player James Yap and sons Joshua and Bimby Aquino-Yap, Marc Pingris and wife
Danica Sotto, Fastbreak 2 charity game basketball players Gerald Anderson, Anne
Curtis, Daniel Padilla, Jessy Mendiola, Jose Manalo, Marco Alcaraz, Derek Ramsay,
Luis Alandy, Xian Lim, Arthur Solinap, Carl Guevara, Jhong Hilario, Vhong Navarro,
Billy Crawford, Chris Tiu, Young JV, Ervic Vijandre, Arjo Atayde, Joe Vargas, Jon Hall
and Jay Salas, Gilas cadet player Matthew Ganuelas, and Kevin Louie Alas, NBA 3x3
Philippines celebrity players Fabio Ide, Rovilson Fernandez, Will Devaughn, Robin da
Roza and Joross Gamboa, running coach Rio de la Cruz, basketball coaches Vince Hizon
and Allan Gregorio, Perlas Pilipinas womens national basketball player Melissa Jacob,
BENCH/ family stars and 6200: The Mission Possible Project personalities Kim Chiu,
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Karylle, Jeric and Jeron Teng, Enchong Dee, Joseph Marco, Lovi Poe, singer Rachelle
Ann Go and Markki Stroem, Mr. Chinatown 2013 winners Sydney Du, Sky Yang,
Jerome Tan and Randy See; Mr. Chinatown 2014 winners David Licuaco and Kurt
Joshua Ong, Mark Lopez, Jairus Ferrer, Alec Robes, Be BENCH/ The Model Search
finalist Ron Morales; Carlos Concepcion; Yeng Constantino; Pinoy Dream Academy
Season 2 scholar Hansen Nichols with his twin brother GC, BENCH/ Rajo Laurel Dos
collection models Sam Concepcion, Rocco Nacino, Steven Silva, Enzo Pineda, Sarah
Lahbati and Regine Angeles, America's Next Top Models Dominique Reighard and
Allison Harvard, models-turned-actors David Chua, Miko Raval and Raphael Robes,
Luisito Rabat, GMA Network Artist Center talents Gloria Romero-Gutierrez, Pilita
Corrales, Aljur Abrenica, Louise delos Reyes, Mark Herras, Yasmien Kurdi, LJ Reyes,
Julie Anne San Jose, Kristoffer Martin, Derrick Monasterio, Barbie Forteza, Bela Padilla,
Bea Binene, Max Collins, Rafael Rosell, Glaiza de Castro, Rochelle Pangilinan, Mona
Louise Rey, Jonalyn Viray, Kyla Calumpad-Alvarez, Jay-R Silliona, Mark Bautista, Chef
Boy Logro, Manilyn Reynes, Angelu de Leon, Mark Anthony Fernandez, Gabby
Eigenmann, Raymond Bagatsing, Ricky Davao, Anjo Yllana and Wally Bayola, GMA
News and Public Affairs personalities Arnold Clavio, Sandra Aguinaldo, Raffy Tima,
Mariz Umali, Oscar Oida, Mark Salazar, Jun Veneracion, Chino Gaston and Nathaniel
Cruz, Media personalities Atty. Dong Puno, Chiqui Roa-Puno, Jeanne Young, Cory
Quirino, Mel Tiangco and Jay Sonza, Mons Romulo, Tonyboy Cojuangco and Gretchen
Barretto, Cesar Montano, Korina Sanchez, Karen Davila (with her sons David and
Lucas), Miguel Pastor, Joy Ortega, Edu Manzano, Robi Domingo, Peping Cojuangco
daughters Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski, China Cojuangco-Gonzalez (and her adorable
baby Lucia), Mai-Mai Cojuangco, composer Ryan Cayabyab and his wife Emmy, Rowell
Santiago, Celeste Legaspi, JM Rodriguez, Arnold Vegafria and Cris Villonco,
entertainment news reporters Mario Dumaual and Gretchen Fullido, Gary Valenciano,
Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo, Albert Martinez, Mylene Dizon, Iza Calzado, Marco Sison,
Ivy Violan, Regine Velasquez, Vina Morales, Shaina Magdayao, Jerome Florentino, Erik
Santos, Ogie Diaz, Gary Valencianos wife Angeli Pangilinan-Valenciano, Angeline
Quinto, Arron Villaflor, Christian Bautista, Basil Valdez, Sam Milby, Gina Godinez,
musical director and arranger Homer Flores, music composer Louie Ocampo and wife
Jojo, socialites Baby Araneta Fores, Lisa Araneta, Cacho Marcos, Linda Oledan, Veana
Fores, Lorrie Reynoso, Vicky Zubiri, Maricris Zobel, Carol Garcia, Maripi Muscat and
Margarita Fores, Anton Mendoza, Monch Cruz, Chut Cuerva, Marcel Crespo, Ipe Cruz of
Rogue Magazine, Marco Lobregat, Ching Cruz, Tina Cuevas, Agnes Huibonhoa, Fe
Rodriguez, Susan Joven, Ian Giron, Andres Vasquez Prada and Al Tengco, Doris
Magsaysay Ho, Gina Lopez, Evelyn Forbes, Marc Nelson, Ricco and Tina Maristela-
Ocampo, Rikki and Beng Dee, Philip and Tricia Cu-Unjieng, Sander Tantoco, Philippine
National Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon, Renna Hechanova Angeles, Karen
Santos, Bobby and Chingbee Cuenca, Gina Aboitiz, Baby Girl Fricke, Gina Godinez,
Maurice Arcache and ace photographer Alex Van Hagen, Jojie Dingcong, Jean
Goulbourn, Frances Lim and Paul Campos, Dennis and Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Ernest
Escaler, Ces Orena-Drilon, Dyan Castillejo-Garcia, Jackie Castillejo-Guingona, Eric
Quizon, Liza Ilarde, Ana Kalaw, Anton San Diego, Raul Teehankee, Pepper Teehankee,
McCann Erickson Client Service Director Bernadette Chincuanco, Coca-Cola Philippines
Marketing Director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe & IMC Director Yasmin Mallari, Mariko
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Jacinto, Aye Nuguid, Leah Puyat, Anton Barretto and Jack de Mesa, Renna Angeles,
Baby Fricke, Karen Santos, Bing-Bing Quiros, Gina Aboitiz, Nick and Lucille Locsin,
Paul Campos, Tony and Chingbee Cuenca, Manny Miana, J. Anton Mendoza, Budji
Layug, Royal Pineda, Ed Calma, Milo Naval, Tony Gonzales, Tes Pasola, Kenneth
Cobonpue, Ana Rocha, Bart Guingona, Jinggoy Buensuceso, Jaime Chua, beauty queens
Venus Raj and Shamcey Supsup, and actors Dingdong Dantes, Diether Ocampo, John
Estrada, Rayver Cruz, Jon Avila, Daniel Matsunaga, Bea Alonzo, Rhap Salazar, Agot
Isidro, Liezel Martinez, Rachel Alejandro and Joanna Ampil, volleyball players Dzi
Gervacio, Jem Ferrer, Fille Saint Merced Cainglet-Cayetano, A Nacachi, Rachel Anne
Daquis, Jovelyn Gonzaga, Alyssa Valdez, Denden Lazaro, Coach Charo Soriano, Marge
Tejada, Melissa Gohing, Mary Jean Balse, Mayeth Carolino, Michelle Carolino, Ella De
Jesus, Kara Acevedo, Karla Bello, Stephanie Gabriel, Mae Tajima, Jayson Ramos, Maica
Morada, Jed Montero, Michelle Laborte, Sasa Devanadera, Grethcel Soltones, Joy
Benito, Rubie De Leon, Mae Crisostomo, Ynna Hao, Tina Salak, JP Torres, Dahlia Cruz,
Nene Bautista, Aiza Maizo, Maika Ortiz, Rhea Dimaculangan, Denise Tan, Venus
Bernal, Jheck Dionela, Angge Tabaquero, Mitch Datuin, Bea Pascual, Judy Caballejo,
Maruja Banaticla, AJ Pareja, Myco Antonio, Henry Pecana, Rex Intal, Dindin Santiago,
Jaja Santiago, Kathy Bersola, Princess Gaiser, Shiela Marie Bang Pineda, Mayette
Zapanta, Rosemarie Vargas, Jen Reyes, Angela Benting, Pau Soriano, Lizlee Ann Gata-
Pantone, Peter Den Mar Torres, Michelle Gumabao, Cha Cruz, Stephanie Mercado,
Jeshul Wensh Tiu, Abigail Marano, Mika Esperenza, Kim Fajardo, Victonara Galang,
and Cyd Demicillo, Renz Casanova, Chris Macasaet, Philip Cerveza, Joanne Siy, Loren
Lantin, Mia Hirotsuji, Pamela Lastimosa, Ingrid Reyes, Jessey De Leon, Carmela Tunay,
Chloe Cortez, Alex Cabanos, Patricia Rasmo, Illa Santos, Joanne Bunag, Jacqueline
Alarca and Ers Iratay.
Their anniversary and birthday cakes came from Fernandos Bakeshop of Pinky
Fernando-Ramos, Goldilocks Bakeshop and Red Ribbon Bakeshop SM City Manila
branch for their greetings of several local and international chapters of Jesus is Lord
Church Worldwide Foundation on their anniversary.
The entire Rizal Park was a virtual marketplace, as vendors hawked El Shaddai
handkerchiefs, healing oils, umbrellas, plastic mats, raincoats, and even stools.
While some vendors jacked up their prices, 25-year-old Jun Mallonga from Tondo,
Manila, sold his umbrellas at only P65 each. This is my own way of thanking the Lord,
and also my birthday gift to Brother Eddie, Mallonga said.
Security nightmare
When two helicopters came from ABS-CBN Sky Patrol bearing white handkerchiefs
printed with a message from El Shaddai began dropping them as miraculous gifts, the
crowd went wild.
As the hankies fell, the faithful ran, jumped and jostled in unison for each of those
supposedly miraculous items that can cure any disease of the believer.
One young man executed a virtual football tackle in his attempt to grab a handkerchief
from a little boy.
This is definitely a security nightmare, but what can we do? said an exasperated Supt.
Elmer Jamias, Chinatown commander of the Western Police District.
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El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International, Inc. founder and servant-
leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde told newsmen he spent a few million on the handkerchiefs
and other freebies and props, including balloons and white pigeons.
Early in the afternoon at 3:00 p.m., the crowd jubilantly caught with their umbrellas
inverted thousands of miracle-souvenir handkerchiefs thrown into the air from several
helicopters.
Broadcast journalists showing live television pictures from cameras at the rooftop of the
Manila Hotel estimated the Luneta crowd at 4 million. There were umbrellas and tents
from the Quirino Grandstand by the Manila bay to the area behind the Rizal monument
across Roxas Boulevard. By nightfall, the El Shaddai followers were spread out almost to
Taft Avenue, T.M. Kalaw Street, Padre Burgos Drive, United Nations Avenue, Pedro Gil,
Port Area, McArthur, Jones, Quezon and Ayala Bridge.
A thanksgiving prayer was offered by Bro. Eddie Villanueva for his annual birthday
celebration and for the annual anniversary celebration of the Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide.
He also led the congregation in prayer for their prayer-requests, which were tied to
balloons and released to the air at the signal of Bro. Eddie.
Velarde said that at 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 26, blaring of sirens in all government
offices, mobile police cars and watercraft, firetrucks and jail service vans, thousands
of white doves will be released, bells will be tolled, blowing of horns, pounding of
musical drums or tin cans and other noise-producing objects, miracle mission balloons
of faith, love and unity would be released with 4 prayer requests and petitions written on
them and fireworks will be lit to signal the choir and band to play and sing the happy
birthday song for Brother Eddie.
A thousand-voice choir will sing the birthday song accompanies by the Philippine
Philharmonic Orchestra.
The 4 prayer requests are:
For these religious groups to continue touching people's lives, healing the sick,
and repairing broken relationships.
For President Aquino to succeed in bridging the gap between the rich and the
poor through food security and peace and order initiatives.
For the Marcos wealth issue to be resolved by the people in a referendum so the
stigma and bitterness caused by this unresolved issue may be healed and bring
about unity and love among our people.
For media to be a constructive partner in nation building by their truthful, honest
and fair reporting of events, such as: international and local competitions,
television programs and movies.
"For the construction of major infrastructure projects in the Philippines such as
rail and road projects, high and mid-rise buildings, shopping malls and residential
and office condominiums, hotels and resorts.
Asked later if the last request means that, like the President, he thinks some in media are
irresponsible in their reporting, Velarde replied: I am not saying that. I'm just praying
that media would continue being a constructive partner in nation building."
Families who had positioned themselves on mattresses on the ground stayed put, though
there was little protection from the rain. Children made up almost 40 percent of the
throng in Rizal Park.
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Political banners and streamers had reportedly been prohibited in Quirino Grandstand and
Plaza Miranda areas, and there were none in sight.
Record breaker
The birthday party unofficially broke the Guinness Book record for the world's biggest
birthday bash, which was attended by 35,000 and hosted by Col. Harland Sanders, the
founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken, on his 89th birthday in 1979.
Many of the El Shaddai crowd camped out overnight in tents. The rain did not stop more
from arriving, with many coming on buses from the provinces.
The President and the members of the Aquino Family, government officials and showbiz
personalities will stay briefly at the Manila Hotel, a hundred meters from the venue of the
festivities, to await his part in the program.
The heaviest downpour came at 4:30 p.m. just before Philippine President Benigno S.
Aquino III and presidential sisters Ballsy Aquino and Eldon Cruz, Pinky Aquino and
Manolo Abellada and Viel Aquino and Dodo Dee, and their children: Jiggy and Jonty
Aquino-Cruz, Miggy and Nina Aquino-Abellada, Kiko and Jia Aquino-Dee, joined
by Philippine Vice-President Jejomar C. Binay, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes P.A. Sereno,
Senate President Franklin M. Drilon, House Speaker Feliciano R. Belmonte, Jr.,
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino,
Philippine National Police Director General Alan L.M. Purisima, Manila Police District
Chief Leocadio Santiago, Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief-of-Staff General Pio
Catapangan, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Amando Tetangco, Jr., Commission
on Higher Education Chairman Patricia B. Licuanan, Cultural Center of the Philippines
Chairperson Emily A. Abrera, National Commission for Culture and the Arts Chairman
Felipe M. de Leon Jr., Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board Commissioner and CEO
Antonio M. Bernardo, Land Transportation Office Chairman Virginia P. Torres, Land
Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Chairman Winston M. Ginez,
Association of Broadcasters of the Philippines Chairman Butch S. Canoy, Executive
Secretary Pacquito Ochoa, Jr., Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala; Communications
and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ricky Carandang; Defense Secretary Voltaire
Gazmin; Enviorment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje, Jr.; Budget and
Management Secretary Florencio Abad, Jr.; Health Secretary Dr. Enrique Ona, Interior
and Local Government Secretary Manuel A. Roxas II, foreign affairs secretary Albert del
Rosario, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo, Finance Secretary Cesar V.
Purisima, Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio A. Abaya,
Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla, justice secretary Leila M. de Lima, labor and
employment secretary Rosalinda D. Baldoz, public works and highways secretary
Rogelio L. Singson, science and technology secretary Mario G. Montejo, social welfare
and development secretary Corazon J. Soliman, tourism secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr.,
Julia Abad-Razon, presidential management staff; appointments secretary Rochelle R.
Ahorro, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte, presidential spokesperson Atty.
Edwin Lacierda, former senators Heherson Alvarez, Teresa Aquino-Oreta, Butz Aquino,
Nikki Coseteng, John Henry Osmea, Ernesto Herrera, Loi Estrada, Juan Flavier, Robert
Jaworski, Ping Lacson, Kiko Pangilinan, Vicente Paterno, Nene Pimentel, Leticia
Ramos-Shahani, Santanina T. Rasul, Jovito Salonga, Helena Benitez, Eva Estrada-Kalaw,
Freddie Webb, Edgardo Angara, Vic Ziga, Ernesto Tanada and Francisco Tatad, current
Senators Sergio Osmea III, Pia Cayetano, Alan Peter Cayetano, TG Guingona,
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Bongbong Marcos, Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Nancy Binay, Lito Lapid, Jinggoy
Estrada, JV Ejercito, Juan Ponce Enrlie, Ralph Recto and Vicente Sotto III, Majority
Floor Leader Neptali Gonzales II, Ilocos Norte 2nd District Rep. Imelda Marcos,
Caloocan Rep. Edgar R. Erice, Malabon Lone District Rep. Josephine Veronique R.
Lacson-Noel, Navotas Lone District Rep. Toby Tiangco, Maria Theresa B. Bonoan-
David of 4th District of Manila, Lucy Torres-Gomez of 4th District of Leyte, Karlo
Nograles of 1st District of Davao City, Pedro B. Acharon Jr. of 1st District of South
Cotabato and Sarangani Lone District Rep. Manny Pacquiao, Associate Justices Antonio
Carpio, Presbitero Velasco, Jr., Teresita J. Leonardo-de Castro, Arturo D. Brion,
Diosdado M. Peralta, Lucas P. Bersamin, Mariano C. Del Castillo, R. Abad, Martin
Villarama, Jr., Jose Perez, Jose C. Mendoza, Bienvenido L. Reyes, Esrelita Perlas-
Bernabe and Marvic Leonen, former Manila Mayor and Buhay Party-List Rep. Lito
Atienza, former Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim, former Philippine President and now
Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada, current Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista, former
Quezon City Mayor Brigido Simon, Caloocan City Mayor Oscar Malapitan, Malabon
City Mayor Len-Len Oreta, Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco, Valenzuela City
Mayor Rexlon Gatchalian, Mandaluyong City Mayor Benhur Abalos, Marikina City
Mayor Del de Guzman, former Pasig City Mayors Vicente, Soledad and Bobby Eusebio
and San Juan City Mayor Guia Gomez, Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay, current
Pasig City Mayor Maribel Andaya-Eusebio, Taguig City Mayor Laarni Lopez-Cayetano,
current Pasay City Mayor Antonio Tony Calixto, former Pasay City Mayor Wenceslao
Peewee Trinidad, former Paranaque City Mayor Joey Marquez, former Paranaque City
Mayor Florencio Bernabe, current Paraaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez, Las Pinas City
Mayor Vergel A. Aguilar and Muntinlupa City Mayor Jaime Fresnedi, Benguet Governor
Nestor Fongwan, Pangasinan Governor Amado Espino, Baguio City Mayor Mauricio
Domogan, Tabuk City, Kalinga mayor Ferdinand Tubban, Rosales, Pangasinan
Mayor Susan P. Casareno, Dagupan City Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, Urdaneta City
Mayor Amadeo Gregorio E. Perez IV, Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane, Jr.,
Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino, Subic, Zambales Mayor Jeffrey D. Khonghun,
Pampanga Provincial Governor Lilia G. Pineda, San Fernando, Pampanga Mayor Edwin
Santiago, Angeles City, Pampanga Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, Tarlac Governor Jesus
Bong" Santos, Tarlac City Mayor Gelacio R. Manalang,
Bataan Provincial Governor Albert S. Garcia, Balanga City Mayor Jose Enrique
S. Garcia III, Bulacan Provincial Governor Wilhelmino Sy-Alvarado, Marilao Municipal
Mayor Juanito "Tito" H. Santiago, Baliwag Municipal Mayor Carolina Dellosa, Malolos
City Mayor Christian D. Natividad, Nueva Ecija Provincial Governor Aurelio Matias
Umali, Cabanatuan City Mayor Julius Cesar V. Vergara, Rizal Provincial Governor
Rebecca A. Ynares, Antipolo City Mayor Casimiro A. Ynares III,
Taytay Municipal Mayor Janet De Leon - Mercado, San Mateo, Rizal Mayor Jose Rafael
Diaz, Angono Mayor Gerry V. Calderon, Cavite Provincial Governor Juanito Victor
Remulla, Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla, Dasmarinas City Mayor Jennifer A.
Barzaga, Rosario Municipal Mayor Jose M. Ricafrente Jr., Laguna Provincial Governor
Ramil Hernndez, Santa Rosa City, Laguna Mayor Arlene B. Arcillas-Nazareno,
Calamba City Mayor Justin Marc Timmy Chipeco, San Pablo City Mayor Loreto S.
Amante, Los Baos Municipal Caesar P. Perez, Batangas Provincial Governor Vilma
Santos-Recto, Batangas City Mayor Eduardo B. Dimacuha, Lipa City Mayor Meynardo
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A. Sabili, Quezon Provincial Governor David C. Suarez, Lucena City Mayor Roderick A.
Alcala, Palawan Governor Jose C. Alvarez, Puerto Princesa City Mayor Lucilo R.
Bayron, Naga City Mayor John Bongat, Albay Provincial Governor Joey Salceda,
Legaspi City Mayor Noel Rosal, Sorsogon Provincial Governor Antonio Escudero Jr.,
Sorsogon City Mayor Sally A. Lee, Iloilo Provincial Governor Arthur Defensor, Sr.,
Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, Negros Occidental provincial governor Alfredo
G. Maraon, Jr., Bacolod City Mayor Monico Puentevella, Cebu Provincial Governor
Hilario Junjun Davide III, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, Consolacion Municipal
Mayor Teresa P. Alegado, Davao del Sur Provincial Governor Claude Bautista, Davao
City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, South Cotabato Provincial Governor Daisy Avance-
Fuentes, General Santos City Mayor Ronnel Rivera, Misamis Oriental Provincial
Governor Yevgeny Vicente B. Emano, Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno,
Agusan del Sur Provincial Governor Adolph Edward Plaza, Butuan City Mayor
Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr., United States ambassador Philip S. Goldberg, Canadian
ambassador Christopher Thronley, Spanish ambassador Jorge Domecq, Mexican
ambassador Julio Camarena Villaseor, Bangladeshi ambassador Major Gen. John
Gomes, Cambodian ambassador Tuot Panha, Indian ambassador Ram Trasad, Indonesian
ambassador Ade Petranto, Japanese ambassador Toshinao Urabe, Korean ambassador
Hyuk Lee, Lao ambassador Malayvieng Sakonhninhom, Malaysian Ambassaor Dato
Mohd Zamiri Vin Mohd Kassim, Burmese ambassador Aung Khin Soe, Pakistani
ambassador Safdar Hayat, Marichu Vera Perez, Rev. Fr. Sonny Ramirez, PAGCOR
Chairman Ephraim Genuino, PAGCOR Chairman Cristino L. Naguiat, Jr., former
PAGCOR presidents Butch Tenorio and Rafael Butch Francisco, PAGCOR Chairman
Jorge Sarmiento, Philippine Olympic Committee Chairman Jose Cojuangco, Jr.,
Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Ricardo R. Garcia and representatives of
businessman Lucio Tan, former Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company president Tony
Abacan, retired Philippine Supreme Court Chief Justices Hilario Davide, Jr., Artemio
Panganiban and Reynato Puno, Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Bea Zobel, Ayala Land, Inc.
president Antonino Tony" Aquino, Rowena Tomeldan, AC Legarda, Mark Sablan,
Joseph Reyes, Maricris Bernardino, Pivi Diaz, Rina Rejanit, Bobby Dy, Manuel V.
Pangilinan, Tessie Sy-Coson, Tony Tan-Caktiong, Ramon Ang, Alfred Ty, Arthur Ty,
Sari Yap, Lance Gokongwei, Robina Gokongwei-Pe, Liza Gokongwei-Cheng, Isha
Andaya-Valles, Myrza Sison, Jo-ann Maglipon, ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation
Chairman Eugenio Gabby Lopez III, ABS-CBN Corporation President and Chief
Content Officer Charo Santos-Concio, Star Cinema ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc.
managing director Malou Santos, Broadcast Head and Channel 2 Head Cory Valenzuela-
Vidanes, television business unit head Laurenti Dyogi, business unit head for comedy
Linggit Tan-Marasigan, ABS-CBN Publishing, Inc. General Manager Ernie Lopez,
Dreamscape Entertainment Television President Deo Endrinal, Roxy Liquigan, Riley
Santiago, Robert Labayen, Mark Yambot, August Benitez, Nandy Villar, Rico Camus,
Raymond Miranda, Mark Lopez, Maricel Arenas, Happy Mabulay, Darwin Cerrado,
Aldrin Cerrado, Dino Laurena, March Ventosa, Chris Lopez, Carlo Katigbak, Leo
Katigbak, Paolo Pineda, Bong Osorio, Monchet Olives, Karen Coloma, former ABS-
CBN presidents Cito Alejandro and Freddie Garcia, movie and television directors
Johnny Manahan, Arnel Natividad, Toto Natividad, Malu Sevilla, Rechie del Carmen,
Jojo Saguin, Jerry Lopez-Sineneng, Tots Mariscal, Erik Salud, Ruel Bayani, Ruel Naval,
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Jerome Pobocan, and Don Cuaresma, 4, 000 Lopez kin from all over the world, ABS-
CBN Manila Radio and Sports Division head Peter Musngi, ABS-CBN Integrated News
and Current Affairs Chief Ging Reyes and Choose Philippines head Charie Villa,
television director Bobbet and son Kobi Vidanes, the members of the Daza, Valenzuela
and Vidanes families, Andrew Tan, Beth Lee, Fe Agudo, Washington Sycip, Felipe
Gozon, Menardo Jimenez, Sr., Jimmy Duavit, Annette Gozon-Abrogar, Lito Abrogar,
Lilybeth G. Rasonable, Regie C. Bautista, Marivin T. Arayata, Jose Mari R. Abacan, Gigi
Santiago-Lara, Darling P. De Jesus, Cheryl Ching-Sy, Teresa L. Pacis, Bang U.
Arespacochaga, Ali Nokom-Dedicatoria, Kenneth Yang, Sanjiv Vohra, Lily Yu-
Monterverde, Wilson Tieng, Philippine Daily Inquirer board chairman Marixi Rufino-
Prieto, Philippine Daily Inquirer president Alexandra Prieto-Romualdez, Philippine Daily
Inquirer editor-in-chief Letty Jimenez-Magsanoc, United States Embassy spokesperson
Rebecca Thompson, as well guests were media agencies and advocacy partners, 600
participants of the World Economic Forum on East Asia Summit 2014 from more than 30
countries, former Negros and Philippine National Bank board of director, Miguel Mike
Romero, socialite and television personality Cory Quirino, bag designer Sylvia Santos,
fashion designers JC Buendia, Randy Ortiz, Jojie Lloren, Dong Omaga Diaz, Joey
Samson, Ivarluski Aseron, Vittorio Barba, Gerry Katigbak, Frederick Peralta, Rajo
Laurel, Len Nepomuceno, Hindy Weber-Tantoco, Ramon Esteban, PJ Aranador, Edwin
Ao, OJ Hofer, Arcy Gayatin, Tippi Ocampo, Avel Bacudio, Jerome Salaya Ang, Joel
Escober, Anthony Nocom, Albert Andrada, Noel Crisostomo, Ronaldo Arnaldo, Kristel
Yulo, Happy Andrada, Pablo Cabahug and James Reyes, FDAP designers Johnny Abad,
Ricky Abad, Dexter Alaza, Nino Angeles, Delby Bragais, Karen Castro, Kirby Cruz, Ivan
dela Cruz, Perry Diaz, Lynn Roxas, Boyet Dysanco, Ricco Escaro, Rocky Gathercole,
Genar Gozum, Pristine de Guzman, Adin Lara, Paul Ranier Lim, Noelle Llave, Edgar
Madamba, Jontie Martinez, Nikkie Martinez, Ole Morabe, Vivo Nazareth, Dave Ocampo,
Lito Perez, Nholie Pilapil, Joyce Pilarsky, Aan Pineda, Raoul Ramirez, Yako Reyes,
Rholand Roxas, Edgar San Diego, Fanny Serrano, Edwin Uy, Simon Ariel Vasquez,
Geoffrey Zordilla, independent fashion designers Jun Escario, Michelle Sison, Patrice
Ramos Diaz, Charina Sarte, Cary Santiago, Dennis Lustico, John Paras, Bea Albert, Eric
de los Santos, Maureen Desini, Vania Romoff, Martin Bautista, John/Paul Herrera,
Ronald Mendoza, Audie Espino, Sidney Perez Sio, Goullee Gorospe and Raoul Ramirez,
countrys design icons Inno Sotto, Auggie Cordero, Pepito Albert, Cesar Gaupo, Lulu
Tan-Gan, Mike de la Rosa and Loretto, Efren Ocampo and The Dean of Filipino Fashion
Designers Ben Farrales, Atty. Esperidion Laxa, Tony Ferrer, Lawrence Tan, Atty. Joji
Villanueva-Alonso, former Ilocos Rep. Roque RoquitoAblan, Kapamilya and non-
Kapamilya stars couple Iya Villania and Drew Arellano, Bianca Manalo, Sitti Navarro,
Jasmine Curtis Smith, James Blanco, Eric Tai, K Brosas, Claudine Barretto and Raymart
Santiago, Randy Santiago, G Toengi-Walters, Kean Cipriano, Bamboo Manalac,
Binibining Pilipinas 2013 winners Cindy Miranda and Pia Romero, Miss International
2013 Bea Rose Santiago, Miss Universe 2013 3rd Runner-Up Ariella Arida, Katherine de
Castro-Cruz, Oyo Boy Sotto, Rowell Santiago, Dominique Cojuangco, Dina Bonnevie
with husband Ilocos Sur Vice-Governor Deogracias Victor Savellano, Jericho Rosales,
apl.de.ap, Eddie Garcia and Richard Gomez, The Philippine STAR columnists RJ
Ledesma, Stephanie Zubiri-Crespi, and Tim Yap, The Philippine STAR lifestyle section
editor Millet Martinez-Mananquil, Philippine Daily INQUIRER Lifestyle section editor
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Thelma Sioson-San Juan, Meralco Bolts coach Norman Black, Ateneo mens basketball
coach Bo Perasol and his players Kiefer Ravena, Thirdy Ravena, Von Pessumal, Ponso
Gotladera, Kris Porter, Chris Newsome and Nico Elorde, former players Doug Kramer,
JC Intal, Macky Escalona, Nico Salva, Bacon Austria, Ryan Buenafe, Tonino Gonzaga,
Emman Monfort, Juami Tiongson, Frank Golla, Oping Sumalinog, JP Erram and Jai
Reyes, Sen. Bong Revilla Jr., William Lao, Mother Lily Monterverde, Shirley Kuan,
Deedee Sytangco, Sec. Sonny Coloma, Beth Tagle, Rep. Dax and Midy Cua, Dolly Anne
Carvajal-Mendoza, Lily Layug, Arthur Manuntag, Christine Singson, Grace Singson,
Tess Daza, Jackie Aquino-Gavino, Joy Melendrez, Tonypet Albano, Maricar Bhel,
Representatives Uliran Joaquin, Hermilando Mandanas, Annie Susano and Butch
Dumpit, Vanessa Francisco, Annabelle Rama-Gutierrez, Boots Anson-Roa, Snow Tago,
Charmaine Yu, Greg Yu, Edmund Lim and Ramon Jacinto, Ogie Alcasid, Bianca
Gonzales and Jim Paredes, TV5s Willie Revillame, Father and son Pen and Ping
Medina, Celebrity cousins Isabelle Daza and Georgina Wilson, Mariel Rodriguez, JC
Tiuseco, Georgina Wilson, Miriam Quiambao, Gretchen Ho, John Lapus, Kean Cipriano,
Comedienne Candy Pangilinan, with friends Arnell Ignacio and directors Joey Reyes and
Manny Castaeda, Ramon Bautista, TV host Raymond Gutierrez, Mae Paner, Pinky
Amador, Leo Valdez, Noel Trinidad and Robin Padilla, 1986 EDSA veterans Leah
Navarro, Mitch Valdez, and Maan Hontiveros, Megastar Sharon Cuneta and Atty. Kiko
Pangilinan, Kris Aquino, Christopher de Leon and Sandy Andolong, Rez Cortez, William
Martinez and Yayo Aguila, Lani Mercado-Revilla, Lorna Tolentino-Fernandez, Tirso
Cruz III and wife Lyn and son Bodie, Eric Quizon, G. Toengi and Romnick Sarmenta,
Kuh Ledesma, Grace Nono, Louie Heredia and Dingdong Avanzado, Bro. Eddie
Villanueva presidential campaign supporters Coney Reyes, Karla Martinez, Piolo
Pascual, Dolphy Quizon, Jr., Donita Rose, Nonoy Zuniga, Prof. Jeremias Jangad, PBA
player James Yap and sons Joshua and Bimby Aquino-Yap, Fastbreak 2 basketball
players and guest stars Gerald Anderson, Anne Curtis, Derek Ramsay, Daniel Padilla,
Jessy Mendiola, Jose Manalo, and Marco Alcaraz, Luis Alandy, Xian Lim, Arthur
Solinap, Carl Guevara, Jhong Hilario, Vhong Navarro, Billy Crawford, Chris Tiu, Young
JV, Ervic Vijandre, Joe Vargas, Jon Hall, Jay Salas, Gilas cadet player Matthew
Ganuelas, and Kevin Alas, BENCH/ family stars and 6200: The Mission Possible
Project personalities Kim Chiu, Karylle, Jeric and Jeron Teng, Enchong Dee, Joseph
Marco, Lovi Poe, singer Rachelle Ann Go and Markki Stroem, Mr. Chinatown 2013
winners Sydney Du, Sky Yang, Jerome Tan and Randy See; Mark Lopez, Jairus Ferrer,
Alec Robes, Be Bench: The Model Search finalist Ron Morales; Carlos Concepcion;
Yeng Constantino; Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 scholar Hansen Nichols with his
twin brother GC, BENCH/ Rajo Laurel Dos collection models Sam Concepcion, Rocco
Nacino, Steven Silva, Enzo Pineda, Sarah Lahbati and Regine Angeles, America's Next
Top Model's Dominique Reighard and Allison Harvard, models-turned-actors David
Chua and Miko Raval, Luisito Rabat, GMA Network Artist Center talents Gloria
Romero-Gutierrez, Pilita Corrales, Aljur Abrenica, Louise delos Reyes, Mark Herras,
Yasmien Kurdi, LJ Reyes, Julie Anne San Jose, Kristoffer Martin, Derrick Monasterio,
Barbie Forteza, Bela Padilla, Bea Binene, Max Collins, Rafael Rosell, Glaiza de Castro,
Rochelle Pangilinan, Mona Louise Rey, Jonalyn Viray, Kyla Calumpad-Alvarez, Jay-R
Silliona, Mark Bautista, Chef Boy Logro, Manilyn Reynes, Angelu de Leon, Mark
Anthony Fernandez, Gabby Eigenmann, Raymond Bagatsing, Ricky Davao, Anjo Yllana
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and Wally Bayola, GMA News anchors and reporters Arnold Clavio, Sandra Aguinaldo,
Raffy Tima and wife Mariz Umali, Oscar Oida, Mark Salazar, Jun Veneracion, Chino
Gaston, Weatherman Nathaniel Cruz, Media personalities Dong Puno, Chiqui Roa-Puno,
Jeanne Young, Cory Quirino, Mel Tiangco and Jay Sonza, Mons Romulo, Tonyboy
Cojuangco and Gretchen Barretto, Korina Sanchez, Karen Davila (with her sons David
and Lucas), Miguel Pastor, Joy Ortega, Edu Manzano, Robi Domingo, Peping Cojuangco
daughters Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski, China Cojuangco-Gonzalez (and her adorable
baby Lucia), Mai-Mai Cojuangco, composer Ryan Cayabyab and his wife Emmy, Rowell
Santiago, Celeste Legaspi, JM Rodriguez, Arnold Vegafria and Cris Villonco,
entertainment news reporters Mario Dumaual and Gretchen Fullido, Gary Valenciano,
Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo, Albert Martinez, Mylene Dizon, Iza Calzado, Vina Morales,
Shaina Magdayao, Erik Santos, Ogie Diaz, Gary Valencianos wife Angeli Pangilinan-
Valenciano, Angeline Quinto, Arron Villaflor, Christian Bautista, Basil Valdez, Sam
Milby, Gina Godinez, musical director and arranger Homer Flores, music composer
Louie Ocampo and wife Jojo, socialites Baby Araneta Fores, Lisa Araneta, Cacho
Marcos, Linda Oledan, Veana Fores, Lorrie Reynoso, Vicky Zubiri, Maricris Zobel,
Carol Garcia, Maripi Muscat and Margarita Fores, Anton Mendoza, Monch Cruz, Chut
Cuerva, Marcel Crespo, Ipe Cruz of Rogue Magazine, Marco Lobregat, Ching Cruz, Tina
Cuevas, Agnes Huibonhoa, Fe Rodriguez, Susan Joven, Ian Giron, Andres Vasquez
Prada and Al Tengco, travel friends Pops Fernandez-Nievera, Doris Magsaysay Ho, Gina
Lopez, Evelyn Forbes, Marc Nelson, Ricco and Tina Maristela-Ocampo, Rikki and Beng
Dee, Philip and Tricia Cu-Unjieng, Sander Tantoco, Philippine National Red Cross
Chairman Richard Gordon, Renna Hechanova Angeles, Karen Santos, Bobby and
Chingbee Cuenca, Gina Aboitiz, Baby Girl Fricke, Gina Godinez, Maurice Arcache and
ace photographer Alex Van Hagen, Jojie Dingcong, Jean Goulbourn, Frances Lim and
Paul Campos, Dennis and Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Ernest Escaler, Ces Orena-Drilon, Dyan
Castillejo-Garcia, Jackie Castillejo-Guingona, Eric Quizon, Liza Ilarde, Ana Kalaw,
Anton San Diego, Raul Teehankee, Pepper Teehankee, McCann Erickson Client Service
Director Bernadette Chincuanco, Coca-Cola Philippines Marketing Director Anubha
Sahasrabuddhe & IMC Director Yasmin Mallari, Mariko Jacinto, Aye Nuguid, Leah
Puyat, Anton Barretto and Jack de Mesa, Renna Angeles, Baby Fricke, Karen Santos,
Bing-Bing Quiros, Gina Aboitiz, Nick and Lucille Locsin, Paul Campos, Tony and
Chingbee Cuenca, Manny Miana, J. Anton Mendoza, Budji Layug, Royal Pineda, Ed
Calma, Milo Naval, Tony Gonzales, Tes Pasola, Kenneth Cobonpue, Ana Rocha, Bart
Guingona, Jinggoy Buensuceso, Jaime Chua, Agot Isidro, Liezel Martinez, Rachel
Alejandro and Joanna Ampil, volleyball players Dzi Gervacio, Jem Ferrer, Fille Saint
Merced Cainglet-Cayetano, A Nacachi, Rachel Daquis, Jovelyn Gonzaga, Alyssa Valdez,
Denden Lazaro, Charo Soriano, Marge Tejada, Melissa Gohing, Mary Jean Balse,
Mayeth Carolino, Michelle Carolino, Ella De Jesus, Kara Acevedo, Karla Bello,
Stephanie Gabriel, Mae Tajima, Jayson Ramos, Maica Morada, Jed Montero, Michelle
Laborte, Sasa Devanadera, Grethcel Soltones, Joy Benito, Rubie De Leon, Mae
Crisostomo, Ynna Hao, Tina Salak, JP Torres, Dahlia Cruz, Nene Bautista, Aiza Maizo,
Maika Ortiz, Rhea Dimaculangan, Denise Tan, Venus Bernal, Jheck Dionela, Angge
Tabaquero, Bea Pascual, Judy Caballejo, AJ Pareja, Myco Antonio, Henry Pecana, Rex
Intal, Dindin Santiago, Jaja Santiago, Princess Gaiser, Shiela Bang Pineda, Mayette
Zapanta, Rosemarie Vargas, Jen Reyes, Angela Benting, Pau Soriano, Peter Torres,
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Michelle Gumabao, Cha Cruz, Stephanie Mercado, Jeshul Wensh Tiu, Renz Casanova,
Joanne Siy, Loren Lantin, Mia Hirotsuji, Pamela Lastimosa, Ingrid Reyes, Jessey De
Leon, Carmela Tunay, Chloe Cortez, Alex Cabanos, Patricia Rasmo, Illa Santos, Joanne
Bunag, Jacqueline Alarca and Ers Iratay, Coca-Cola ASEAN Business Unit President
Manuel Arroyo, Coca-Cola Philippines President & General Manager Guillermo Aponte,
marketing director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe and Franchise and Commercial Leadership
Director Peter Schaelstraete together with the Coca-Cola Philippines team: Johanna Hife,
Steve Little, Rogie Delena, Raymond Villaflor, Teejae Sonza, Jobert Dumlao, Sharon
Tanganco, Roki Ferrer, Rachel Cruz, Francis Chua, Franz Decloedt, Yasmin Mallari,
Jenny Cinco, Jing Atienza, Criselda Pascual, Mavel Banocnoc, Thess Acuna, Franco
Jorge, Stephanie Castillo, Tish Condeno, Jaideep Kibe, Nicamae Baylen, Jenalyn Perez,
Barry del Rosario, and Nikki Lee, Suyen Corporation's Nene and Virgilio Lim, Bryan
Lim and Suyen Lim, Carlos Chan's children Carlson, Archie, Rinby, Larry, Oszen and
Shera, Suyen Corporation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ben Chan, stylist Noel
Manapat, public relations practitioner, events orgainzer and talent manager Keren
Pascual, Korina Sanchezs manager Girlie Rodis and Star Magic handler Monch Novales,
TAPE, Inc. president and chief executive officer Antonio P. Tuviera, TAPE, Inc.
chairman-emeritus Romeo P. Jalosjos, TV5 President-Emeritus and The Philippine
STAR Chairman Atty. Ray C. Espinosa, TV5 President and CEO Noel Lorenzana, Ariel
Fermin, Gary Dujali, News5 head Luchi Cruz-Valdes and Sports5 head and Gilas
Pilipinas Basketball Coach Chot Reyes, Former Professional Models Association of the
Philippines board members and fashion luminaries Tina Maristela Ocampo, Izza
Gonzales-Agana, Desiree Verdadero-Abesamis, Marina Benipayo, Patty Betita, Tweetie
de Leon-Gonzalez, Den Abesamis, Hans Montenegro, Grace Molina and Ariel Atendido,
Robert Mananquil, models Robby Mananquil, and Raya Mananquil-de Leon, and Rissa
Mananquil-Trillo with Valerie de los Santos; Ateneo Blue Eagles team manager Paolo
Trillo; Current Professional Models Association of the Philippines president Phoemela
Baranda also came with Manilas favourite models Grace Tagle, Bubbles Paraiso, Luke
Jickain, Mia Ayesa, Sanya Smith, Mika Lagdameo-Martinez, Antoinette Enciso-Ocampo,
Angel Agustin-Co and Marilen Faustino-Montenegro were arrived at the back of Quirino
Grandstand from the Manila Hotel after the dinner lasted from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.
October 27 birthday celebrant Kiefer Ravena, who accompanied by Jeric and Jeron Teng
on his buying of cake from Goldilocks Bakeshop and ice cream such as Selecta variants
in SM Supermarket, SM City Manila branch taking a taxi ride from the mall to the
Manila Hotel. He celebrated his birthday with the Fastbreak family.
The rain lasted for 15 minutes, and sent people rushing for cover under stalls, trees,
umbrellas and large pieces of plastic.
President Benigno Aquino III and other government officials are expected to show up at
the celebration because Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, president and spiritual
director Bro. Eddie Villanueva is celebrating his birthday on October 6. His belated
birthday party coincidence with the anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide on October 26.
The President is expected to address the annual celebration at 5:05 p.m.
BECAUSE he delivered his speech at the El Shaddai gathering two hours after the pork
barrel groups delivered their messages at a pro-democracy rally in Makati, President
Benigno Aquino III was able to answer back.
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The elite are threatened by the new emerging order for it might diminish their power,
he said of his critics.
It was not a political rally, but the President was not about to pass up the chance to
address his accusers and to campaign for Charter change, Bangsamoro Framework
Agreement, Priority Development Assistance Fund Scam, the 100 million population
mark before the same crowd that, he said, put him in power on June 30, 2010.
Still, for the most part, Mr. Aquino held his tongue during his seemingly conciliatory
speech, which fell short of the stinging harangue newsmen were expecting.
Let us not confuse our countrymen, he said.
The crowd clearly loved the speech--applauding and cheering the President throughout its
length. Organizers claimed an attendance of two million. Police placed the figure at
700,000, but based on actual land area measurements and crowd density, the INQUIRER
estimated the crowd at 300,000.
Speaking mostly in Pilipino, Mr. Aquino concentrated on defending his motives for
wanting to tinker with the country's basic law.
He said again that he only wanted to help the poor and had no interest in extending his
term.
We have no hidden agenda, he said, adding that a shift to a parliamentary system of
government was not in the works either. My conscience is clear.
Responding to nationalist sentiments against his proposals to relax Constitutional
restrictions on foreign ownership, he said: I will never pawn the country's future with
foreigners.
He said the 1987 Constitution was an ''obstacle'' to progress. ''I did not become President
to preserve a society where the poor become poorer and the rich become richer,'' he said.
''Why is this happening? One of the reasons is because we don't have enough money in
our economy to address the needs.''
Raising one of the major issues of the Aquino rally, Mr. Aquino also said the government
had no secret deals with the Marcoses.
Playing underdog
At one point, he played the underdog and asked the El Shaddai and Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide members to pray not only for him but also for his critics so all of us could be
enlightened by the Lord.
He also reiterated that he would never stand in the way of any demonstration or protest
action, but I hope they (critics) will also listen to me so we can understand each other
and we can unite for our country.
Addressing the political opposition, he said: ''Huwag nating guluhin at lituhin ang ating
mga kababayan. I appeal for a sober and mature discussion of the relevant issues in the
proposed Constitutional amendments instead of innuendoes.''
He also said he was willing to listen to the advice of our countrymen but nothing will
happen to our society if we fight and trade accusations and insults while the majority of
our people remain in poverty.
Mr. Aquino--who, Ramos had remarked, finds it hard to forgive and forget--reminded
his detractors of a passage in the Gospel according to St. Luke.
Judge not and you shall not be judged, condemn not and you shall not be condemned,
forgive and you shall be forgiven, he said.
Different time
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Mr. Aquino said nothing could stop his desire to amend the Constitution to help the poor.
He said the issue here is not the extension of the term limits of the President but rather
the reform of the Constitution and the economic system that we now have.
He reiterated that the amendments he was seeking were not political but economic.
We need to adjust our Constitution with global realities, for the present Constitution that
we have was framed in a different time where the economy of nations was based on
protectionism, he said.
He said any provisional amendment would need the final approval of the people and not
of the President or of any politician or businessman.
He brushed off the findings of surveys indicating that a majority of Filipinos were against
Charter change. He said that such surveys made use of telephones, which many poor
people do not have access to.
Earlier in his speech, Mr. Aquino III announced he was following El Shaddai leader Bro.
Mike Velarde's advice to create a clemency commission to study all death penalty cases.
Biggest celebration
On October 26, 2014, a Sunday evening, Pope Francis arrived at Malacaang Park aboard
the Pope mobile from the Apostolic Nunciature on 2140 Taft Avenue, Malate, but was
forced to ride the presidential helicopter S-70A-5 along with Philippine President
Benigno S. Aquino III, Philippine Vice-President Jejomar C. Binay, Sr., Philippine
Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes P.A. Sereno, House Speaker Feliciano R.
Belmonte, Jr., Philippine Senate President Franklin M. Drilon, Metropolitan Manila
Development Authority Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino, former Philippine President
Fidel V. Ramos, former Philippine President and Manila City Mayor Joseph Ejercito-
Estrada, former Philippine President and Pampanga 2nd District Rep. Gloria Macapagal-
Arroyo, Singaporean President Dr. Tony Tan Keng Yam, Singaporean Prime Minister
Lee Hsien Loong, Singaporean Supreme Court Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon,
Singaporean Parliament Speaker Halimah Yacob, former Singaporean President Sellapan
Ramanathan Nathan, former Singaporean Prime Minster Goh Chok Tong, former
Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Abdul
Razak, Yang di-Pertuan Agong Abdul Halim of Kedah, Former Malaysian Prime
Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Malaysian Chief Justice Arifin Zakaria, Indonesian
President Joko Widodo, Former Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri, Former
Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio
Cardinal Tagle, Manila Archbishop-Emeritus Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, Nueva
Segovia Archbishop-Emeritus Ernesto Antolin Salgado, Nueva Segovia Archbishop
Emeritus Edmundo M. Abaya, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Mario M. Perlata, Tuguegarao
Archbishop Sergio L. Utleg, Tuguegarao Archbishop-Emeritus Diosdado A. Talamayan,
Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop-Emeritus Oscar Cardinal V. Cruz, Lingayen-Dagupan
Archbishop Socrates B. Villegas, San Fernando Archbishop Emeritus Paciano Cardinal
B. Aniceto, San Fernando Archbishop Florentino G. Lavarias, Lipa Archbishop Ramon
C. Arguelles, Nueva Caceres Archbishop Rolando O. Joven Tria Tirona, Capiz
Archbishop Jose F. Advincula, Jaro Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo, Cebu Archbishop-
Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal J. Vidal, Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma, Palo Archbishop-
Emeritus Pedro R. Dean, Jr., Palo Archbishop John F. Du, Davao Archbishop-Emeritus
Fernando R. Capalla, Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles, Cotabato Archbishop
Orlando Cardinal B. Quevedo, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop-Emeritus Jesus B. Tuquib,
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Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, Ozamiz Archbishop Jesus A. Dosado,
Zamboanga Archbishop Romulo T. Dela Cruz, Singapore Archbishop William Goh Seng
Chye, Singapore Archbishop-Emeritus Nicholas Gerald Chia, Kuala Lumpur Archbishop
Julian Leow Beng Kim, Kuala Lumpur Archbishop-Emeritus Anthony Soter Fernandez,
Kuala Lumpur Archbishop-Emeritus Murphy Pakiam, Kuching Archbishop John Ha
Tiong Hock, Kuching Archbishop-Emeritus Peter Chung Hoan Ting, Kota Kinabalu
Archbishop John Wong Soo Kau, Kota Kinabalu Archbishop-Emeritus John Lee Hiong
Fun-Yit Yaw, Jakata Archbishop Ignatius Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo, Jakarta Archbishop-
Emeritus Julius Cardinal Riyadi Darmaatmadja and Apostolic Nunciature of the Holy See
to the Philippines Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto to get to Quirino Grandstand amid the huge
crowd on the streets: from Roxas Boulevard to north and southbound areas of Taft
Avenue, T.M. Kalaw Street and United Nations Avenue into Ermita, extending up to
Maria Orosa Street, Padre Burgos Drive, Port Area district, Jones, Ayala, McArthur and
Quezon Bridges to Plaza Miranda in Quiapo.

From the Apostolic Nunciature along Taft Avenue in Malate, Manila, the Pope rode the
"Pope Mobile" into Malacanang Park, four kilometers away. From there, the Holy Father
boarded the Presidential Helicopter at the back of the Quirino Grandstand at 7:45 P.M.

Previously, the former Pope John Paul IIs biggest crowd was the 2 million people who
turned out in 1979 at his hometown of Krakow, Poland for his first visit to the late pope's
Polish homeland after his elevation to the Papacy on October 1978.

The Mass was the climax of the Roman Catholic Church's annual celebration of the
anniversary of the founding of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide which brought together
Roman Catholics from around the world.

The Mass concelebrants included Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio
Cardinal Tagle, Manila Archbishop-Emeritus Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, Nueva
Segovia Archbishop Emeritus Ernesto Antolin Salgado, Nueva Segovia Archbishop
Emeritus Edmundo M. Abaya, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Mario M. Perlata, Tuguegarao
Archbishop Sergio L. Utleg, Tuguegarao Archbishop-Emeritus Diosdado A. Talamayan,
Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop-Emeritus Oscar Cardinal V. Cruz, Lingayen-Dagupan
Archbishop Socrates B. Villegas, San Fernando Archbishop Emeritus Paciano Cardinal
B. Aniceto, San Fernando Archbishop Florentino G. Lavarias, Lipa Archbishop Ramon
C. Arguelles, Nueva Caceres Archbishop Rolando O. Joven Tria Tirona, Capiz
Archbishop Jose F. Advincula, Jaro Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo, Cebu Archbishop-
Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal J. Vidal, Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma, Palo Archbishop-
Emeritus Pedro R. Dean, Jr., Palo Archbishop John F. Du, Davao Archbishop-Emeritus
Fernando R. Capalla, Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles, Cotabato Archbishop
Orlando Cardinal B. Quevedo, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop-Emeritus Jesus B. Tuquib,
Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, Ozamiz Archbishop Jesus A. Dosado,
Zamboanga Archbishop Romulo T. Dela Cruz, Singapore Archbishop William Goh Seng
Chye, Singapore Archbishop-Emeritus Nicholas Gerald Chia, Kuala Lumpur Archbishop
Julian Leow Beng Kim, Kuala Lumpur Archbishop-Emeritus Anthony Soter Fernandez,
Kuala Lumpur Archbishop-Emeritus Murphy Pakiam, Kuching Archbishop John Ha
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Tiong Hock, Kuching Archbishop-Emeritus Peter Chung Hoan Ting, Kota Kinabalu
Archbishop John Wong Soo Kau, Kota Kinabalu Archbishop-Emeritus John Lee Hiong
Fun-Yit Yaw, Jakata Archbishop Ignatius Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo, Jakarta Archbishop-
Emeritus Julius Cardinal Riyadi Darmaatmadja, Pontifical Council of the Laity President
Stanisaw Ryko, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Cardinal Angelo
Amato, the prefect of the Congregation of the Causes of Saints, Most Rev. Teodoro C.
Bacani, Jr., Over-all Spiritual Director of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation
International, Very Rev. Msgrs. Mariano T. Balbago Jr. of Antipolo Diocese and Mario
A. Castillo; and Rev. Fr. Anton Pascual and Rev. Fr. Sanny de Claro, spiritual directors
of the El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International, spiritual directors
from the international chapters of the El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners
Foundation namely Reverend Fathers Bernard J. Nolan of Brisbane, Australia; Leo E.
Steinbock of Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.; and Thomas Kawamura of Tokyo, Japan,
as well as from the Philippines namely, Dwight de Jesus; Remigio Mendoza of Mabini,
Batangas; Manheim Abellana, SDB; Eligio Santos of San Ildefonso Parish, Makati; and
Stephen Punnakal and Victor Maung Thit of the Our Lady of Assumption Parish, Malate,
Manila, as well as from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, namely,
Reverend Fathers including Roman Catholic Parish Priests, Pastors, and Parochial Vicars
from several Roman catholic archdioceses and diocese, as well bishops, deacons and
monsignors from the different parishes in the Roman Catholic Archdioceses
of Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu,
Ende, Kupang, Makassar, Medan, Merauke, Palembang, Pontianak, Samarinda,
Semarang, Bangkok, Thare, Nonseng, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh city, Hu and the Roman
Catholic Dioceses of Malacca-Johor, Penang, Miri, Sibu, Sandakan,
Denpasar, Larantuka, Maumere, Ruteng, Bandung, Bogor, Atambua, Weetebul, Amboina
, Manado, Padang, Sibolga, Agats, Jayapura, Manokwari-Sorong, Timika, Pangkal
Pinang, Tanjungkarang, Ketapang, Sanggau, Sintang, Banjarmasin, Palangka
Raya, Tanjung Selor, Malang, Purwokerto, Surabaya, Chanthaburi, Chiang Mai, Nakhon
Sawan, Ratchaburi, Surat Thani, Nakhon Ratchasima, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani,
Bc Ninh, Bi Chu, Hai Phng, Hng Ha, Lng Sn and Cao Bng, Pht Dim, Thi
Bnh, Thanh Ha, Vinh, B Ra, Cn Th, Lt, Long Xuyn, M Tho, Phan Thit,
Ph Cng, Vnh Long, Xun Lc, Ban M Thut, Nng, Kontum, Nha Trang and
Quy Nhn and from the Philippines, namely, the priests from the different parishes in the
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila, Nueva Segovia, Tuguegarao, San Fernando,
Pampanga, Nueva Caceres, Jaro, Capiz, Cebu, Palo, Davao, Cotabato, Cagayan de Oro,
Ozamiz and Zamboanga and the Dioceses of Laoag, Baguio, Cabanatuan, San Jose,
Nueva Ecija, Bangued, Bayombong, Ilagan, Batanes, Urdaneta, Alaminos, Tarlac,
Balanga, Iba, Malolos, Kalookan, Cubao, Novaliches, Pasig, Antipolo, Paranaque, Imus,
San Pablo, Lipa, Lucena, Gumaca, Infanta, Romblon, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro,
Calapan, Oriental Mindoro, Puerto Princesa, Daet, Libmanan, Legaspi, Masbate,
Sorsogon, Virac, San Jose de Antique, Bacolod, Kabankalan, San Carlos, Dumaguete,
Tagbilaran, Talibon, Maasin, Calbayog, Borongan, Catamaran, Naval, Butuan, Surigao,
Tandag, Malaybalay, Digos, Mati, Tagum, Kidapawan, Marbel, Dipolog, Pagadian,
Marawi, Iligan, Ipil and Isabela, 1,009 Roman Catholic dioceses in America, 157 Roman
Catholic territorial dioceses and archdioceses in East Asia, 192 Roman Catholic territorial
dioceses and archdioceses belonging to Latin, Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara Rites in
The Pope in Manila 2014

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South Asia including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka and 514 Roman Catholic
territorial dioceses and archdioceses in Europe.
Scores of government officials and entertainment celebrities and high society
personalities attended the Jesus is Lord Church Anniversary Celebration which was
televised live nationwide via domestic satellite on television over GMA-7, RPN-9, ABC-
5, PTV-4, IBC-13, and ABS-CBN Channel 2 and aired live on radio over Radio
Mindanao Network (RMN), GMA Radyo Bisig-Bayan AM, ABS-CBN Radyo Patrol and
My Only Radio FM, Catholic Media Network, Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC)
AM, RPN Radyo Ronda and Bureau of Broadcast Services-Radyo ng Bayan radio
stations:
This coverage is simulcast live nationwide via satellite on all GMA TV stations:
TV-7 - Manila
TV-5 - Laoag
TV-46 - Batac, Ilocos Norte
TV-23 - Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
TV-48 - Vigan
TV-10 - Baguio
TV-5 - Mt. Amuyao, Mountain Province
TV-8 - Tabuk
TV-6 - Bontoc, Mountain Province
TV-7 - Bangued, Abra
TV-11 - San Fernando, La Union
TV-10 - Cabanatuan
TV-10 - Dagupan
TV-7 - Tuguegarao
TV-13 - Aparri, Cagayan
TV-7 - Basco, Batanes
TV-7 - Ilagan, Isabela
TV-7 - Santiago, Isabela
TV-7 - Cabarroguis, Quirino
TV-5 - Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
TV-5 - Baler, Aurora
TV-48 - Cauayan
TV-5 - Iba, Zambales
TV-10 - Olongapo
TV-10 - San Fernando, Pampanga
TV-46 - Malolos, Bulacan
TV-27 - Balanga, Bataan
TV-26 - Obando, Bulacan
TV-26 - San Pablo, Laguna
TV-31 - Calamba
TV-12 - Batangas
TV-44 - Jalajala, Rizal
TV-12 - Tagaytay
TV-8 - Lucena
TV-13 - Boac, Marinduque
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TV-13 - San Jose, Occidental Mindoro
TV-33 - Calapan
TV-7 - Romblon
TV-12 - Puerto Princesa, Palawan
TV-6 - Brooke's Point, Palawan
TV-8 - Coron, Palawan
TV-7 - Naga
TV-13 - Iriga
TV-12 - Legaspi
TV-8 - Malilipot, Albay
TV-8 - Camalig, Albay
TV-7 - Masbate
TV-13 - Virac, Catanduanes
TV-4 - Sorsogon
TV-6 - Iloilo
TV-11 - San Jose, Antique
TV-8 - Kalibo, Aklan
TV-35 - Boracay Island
TV-5 - Roxas
TV-13 - Bacolod
TV-30 - Murcia, Negros Occidental
TV-7 - Cadiz
TV-2 - Toledo
TV-10 - Sipalay
TV-7 - Cebu
TV-11 - Barili, Cebu
TV-11 - Samboan, Cebu
TV-11 - Tagbilaran
TV-5 - Dumaguete
TV-10 - Naval, Biliran
TV-10 - Tacloban
TV-48 - Ormoc
TV-10 - Capoocan, Leyte
TV-12 - Isabel, Leyte
TV-8 - Borongan
TV-5 - Calbayog
TV-13 - Catbalogan
TV-7 - Dinagat Island
TV-9 - Zamboanga
TV-4 - Dipolog
TV-3 - Pagadian
TV-21 - Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay
TV-5 - Ozamis
TV-35 - Cagayan De Oro
TV-5 - Gingoog
TV-12 - Mt. Kitanglad, Bukidnon
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TV-45 - Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon
TV-48 - Valencia, Bukidnon
TV-41 - Mambajao, Camiguin
TV-11 - Iligan
TV-5 - Davao
TV-5 - Panabo
TV-8 - General Santos
TV-12 - Cotabato
TV-7 - Butuan
TV-10 - Surigao
TV-2 - Tandag, Surigao del Sur
TV-12 - Jolo, Sulu
TV-8 - Bongao, Tawi-Tawi
And also on GMA Radyo Bisig-Bayan AM
DZBB 594 kHz - Manila
DWRC 1269 kHz - Laoag
DWRA 1413 kHz - Baguio
DZZR 1230 kHz - Bayombong
DZSD 1548 kHz Dagupan
DWBB 1271 kHz - Tuguegarao
DZIG 1192 kHz - Ilagan
DZCS 1129 kHz - Santiago, Isabela
DYSP 909 kHz - Puerto Princessa, Palawan
DZRA 1503 kHz - Daet, Camarines Sur
DWAI 891 kHz - Naga
DZRC 783 kHz - Legaspi
DYSI 1323 kHz - Iloilo
DYRU 1341 kHz - Kalibo, Aklan
DYGM 1503 kHz - Roxas
DYSB 1179 kHz - Bacolod
DYSS 999 kHz - Cebu
DYWR 594 kHz - Tacloban
DYSR 891 kHz - Dumaguete
DXRC 1287 kHz - Zamboanga
DXXY 1350 kHz - Dipolog
DXID 987 kHz - Pagadian
DXLX 864 kHz - Cagayan de Oro
DXGM 1125 kHz - Davao
DXRL 1341 kHz - Koronadal
DXYK 1179 kHz - Butuan
DXBM 990 kHz - Cotabato
Live on all RPN TV stations
Simulcast on:
TV-9 - Metro Manila
TV-9 - Laoag
TV-5 - Aparri, Cagayan
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TV-30 - Pampanga
TV-12 - Tuguegarao
TV-9 - Ilagan, Isabela
TV-7 - Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
TV-12 - Baguio
TV-13 - Dagupan
TV-6 - Tarlac
TV-12 - Tuguegarao
TV-6 - Olongapo
TV-2 - Rodriguez, Rizal
TV-7 - Morong, Rizal
TV-10 - San Mateo, Rizal
TV-9 - Lucena
TV-3 - San Jose, Occidental Mindoro
TV-2 - Legazpi City
TV-2 - Naga City
TV-10 - Iriga
TV-5 - Puerto Princesa
TV-9 - Catbalogan
TV-6 - San Jose, Antique
TV-5 - Tacloban
TV-4 - Iloilo
TV-8 - Bacolod
TV-8 - Dumaguete
TV-9 - Cebu
TV-5 - Zamboanga
TV-5 - Pagadian
TV-5 - Dipolog
TV-5 - Cagayan de Oro
TV-9 - Davao
TV-4 - Surigao
TV-12 - Butuan
TV-7 - General Santos
TV-10 - Cotabato
TV-9 - Jolo, Sulu
and also on RPN Radyo Ronda AM stations:
DWIZ 882 kHz - Manila
DZBS 1368 kHz - Baguio
DZRL 639 kHz - Batac
DZTG 621 kHz - Tuguegarao, Cagayan
DWRS 981 kHz - Santiago, Isabela
DWVA 1170 kHz - San Fernando, La Union
DZTC 828 kHz - Tarlac
DZKI 1332 kHz - Iriga
DWRN 657 kHz - Naga
DWIM 936 kHz - Occidental Mndoro
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DYKB 1404 kHz - Bacolod
DYKC 675 kHz - Cebu
DYRM 1135 kHz - Dumaguete
DXXX 1008 kHz - Zamboanga
DXKD 1053 kHz - Dipolog
DXKP 1377 kHz - Pagadian
DXKO 1368 kHz - Cagayan De Oro
DXOC 1494 kHz - Ozamiz
DXKT 1071 kHz - Davao
DXDX 693 kHz - General Santos
DXKS 1080 kHz Surigao
Simulcast Live on all PTV stations:
PTV 4 - Manila
PTV 4 - Abra
PTV 8 - Baguio
PTV 24 - Mt. Province
PTV 11 - Laoag
PTV 4 - Vigan
PTV 11 - Tuguegarao, Cagayan
PTV 39 - Santiago, Isabela
PTV 4 - Ilagan, Isabela
PTV 45 - Batanes
PTV 30 - Aparri
PTV 3 - Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
PTV 5 - Cabarroguis, Quirino
PTV 5 - Bontoc
PTV 13 - Baler
PTV 2 - Cabanatuan
PTV 12 - Pampanga
PTV 3 - Tarlac
PTV 31 - Balanga
PTV 43 - Olongapo
PTV 5 - Cauayan
PTV 51 - Malolos
PTV 23 - Plaridel
PTV 21 - San Miguel, Bulacan
PTV 48 - Obando, Bulacan
PTV 53 - Batangas
PTV 61 - Lucena
PTV 31 - San Pablo
PTV 99 - Cainta, Rizal
PTV 24 - Tanza
PTV 26 - Boac
PTV 11 - Calapan, Oriental Mindoro
PTV 3 - Lucena
PTV 4 - Puerto Princesa
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PTV 13 - Romblon
PTV 33 - Masbate
PTV 11 - Daet
PTV 8 - Naga
PTV 35 - Iriga
PTV 8 - Legaspi
PTV 4 - Goa, Camarines Sur
PTV 7 - Caramoran, Catanduanes
PTV 9 - Panganiban, Catanduanes
PTV 2 - San Miguel, Catanduanes
PTV 5 - Sorsogon
PTV 2 - Antique
PTV 2 - Jordan, Guimaras
PTV 2 - Iloilo
PTV 25 - Kalibo
PTV 33 - Roxas
PTV 2 - Bacolod
PTV 2 - Sipalay
PTV 24 - Victorias
PTV 31 - Binalbagan
PTV 13 - Cadiz
PTV 9 - Toledo
PTV 11 - Cebu
PTV 10 - Dumaguete
PTV 22 - Tagbilaran
PTV 8 - Tacloban
PTV 12 - Calbayog
PTV 4 - Borongan
PTV 4 - Naval, Biliran
PTV 2 - Dinagat
PTV 7 - Zamboanga
PTV 11 - Pagadian
PTV 11 - Dipolog
PTV 25 - Ipil
PTV 21 - Dapitan
PTV 8 - Cagayan De Oro
PTV 11 - Malaybalay, Bukidnon
PTV 34 - Valencia
PTV 11 - Davao
PTV 27 - Mati
PTV 5 - General Santos
PTV 48 - Koronadal
PTV 9 - Butuan
PTV 3 - Bislig, Surigao del Sur
PTV 21 - Prosperidad
PTV 27 - San Francisco, Agusan del Sur
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PTV 31 - Tandag
PTV 8 - Cotabato
PTV 8 - Kidapawan
PTV 4 - Marawi
PTV 7 Jolo
Simulcast on all ABS-CBN TV stations
TV-2 - Metro Manila
TV-7 - Laoag
TV-3 - Baguio
TV-11 - Mt. Amuyao, Mt. Province
TV-30 La Union
TV-3 Tuguegarao
TV-13 Cabarroguis, Quirino
TV-9 Bangued, Abra
TV-11 Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
TV-2 Santiago, Isabela
TV-32 Dagupan
TV-32 Cabanatuan
TV-32 Tarlac
TV-12 Olongapo
TV-12 Meycauayan
TV-13 Botolan, Zambales
TV-22 Baler
TV-46 Pampanga
TV-34 Bulacan
TV-40 Rizal
TV-38 Lipa
TV-24 Lucena
TV-46 San Pablo
TV-10 Batangas
TV-11 San Jose, Occidental Mindoro
TV-23 Daet
TV-11 Naga
TV-4 Legaspi
TV-10 Malilipot, Albay
TV-9 Sorsogon
TV-11 Tablas, Romblon
TV-7 Virac, Catanduanes
TV-10 Iloilo
TV-23 Kalibo
TV-44 Antique
TV-21 Roxas
TV-13 Naval, Biliran
TV-4 Bacolod
TV-3 Cebu
TV-13 Jagna, Bohol
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TV-12 Dumaguete
TV-2 Tacloban
TV-7 Catarman, Northern Samar
TV-3 Zamboanga
TV-9 Pagadian
TV-42 Dipolog
TV-2 Cagayan De Oro
TV-2 Mt. Kitanglad, Bukidnon
TV-47 Mambajao
TV-7 Alabel, Saranggani
TV-7 Ozamis
TV-5 Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur
TV-4 Iligan
TV-4 Davao
TV-52 Panabo
TV-36 Mati
TV-3 General Santos
TV-24 Koronadal
TV-11 Butuan
TV-5 Cotabato
TV-25 Marawi
TV-10 Jolo, Sulu
And simulcast Live on all ABS-CBN AM and FM Radio Stations
DZMM 630 kHz. Metro Manila
DWEL 93.1 MHz. Laoag
DZRR 101.9 MHz. Baguio
DWEC 93.5 MHz. Dagupan
DWAC 93.5 MHz. Naga
DWRD 93.9 MHz. - Legaspi
DYAP 765 kHz. Puerto Princessa, Palawan
DYAC 93.1 MHz. Iloilo
DYOO 101.5 MHz. Bacolod
DYAB-AM 1512 kHz Cebu
DYTC 94.3 MHz. Tacloban
DXFH 98.7 MHz. Zamboanga
DXEC 91.9 MHz. Cagayan de Oro
DXAB 1512 kHz Davao
DXBC 92.7 MHz. General Santos
DXAJ 94.3 MHz. Butuan
DXPS 95.1 MHz - Cotabato
The special supplement: "Jesus is Lord Church Anniversary Celebration" published in
Manila Bulletin, Philippine Daily Inquirer and The Philippine Star.
The souvenir-type magazine supplement contains the messages section, the lists of
former presidents, vice-presidents, chief justices, house speakers and presidents of the
Senate of the Philippines, the current members of the cabinet, the photographs from 1914
to present: black and white and full colored photographs of Iglesia ni Cristo events and
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gatherings from July 27, 1914 to present, full-colored photographs of Jesus is Lord
Church Worldwide gatherings in venues over Metro Manila from October 1978 to
present, full-colored photographs of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation
International gatherings from August 19, 1984 to present, full-colored photographs from
"John Paul II, We Love You: Papal Visit Manila 1995" by Prudentialife Group of
Companies which containing 165 still photos and "Mabuhay ang Papa", on Pope John
Paul IIs January 1995 visit to Manila for World Youth Day CD-ROM by Distributed
Processing Systems which contains 900 still photos including World Youth Day events
and addressed the plenary assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences that
was commemorating the federation's 25 years of existence. The pope also joined the
silver jubilee celebration of the federation's Radio Veritas Asia and celebrated the 400th
anniversary of the elevation of Manila as an archdiocese, and the event that drew a record
crowd: estimated 4 million-to-5 million people at the January 15, 1995 World Youth Day
Final Mass in Luneta Park, the official program, traffic re-routing and the Eucharistic
Celebration includes the Holy Mass that contains Roman Catholic Archbishops, bishops,
cardinals, deacons and monsignors, Reverend Fathers including Roman Catholic Parish
Priests, Pastors, and Parochial Vicars from the Roman Catholic Territorial Archdioceses
of Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Singapore, Jakarta, Ende, Kupang, Makassar,
Medan, Merauke, Palembang, Pontianak, Samarinda, Semarang, Bangkok, Thare,
Nonseng, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh city, Hu and the Roman Catholic Territorial Dioceses of
Malacca-Johor, Penang, Miri, Sibu, Sandakan, Denpasar, Larantuka, Maumere, Ruteng,
Bandung, Bogor, Atambua, Weetebul, Amboina, Manado, Padang, Sibolga, Agats,
Jayapura, Manokwari-Sorong, Timika, Pangkal Pinang, Tanjungkarang, Ketapang,
Sanggau, Sintang, Banjarmasin, Palangka Raya, Tanjung Selor, Malang, Purwokerto,
Surabaya, Chanthaburi, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Sawan, Ratchaburi, Surat Thani, Nakhon
Ratchasima, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Bc Ninh, Bi Chu, Hai Phng, Hng Ha,
Lng Sn and Cao Bng, Pht Dim, Thi Bnh, Thanh Ha, Vinh, B Ra, Cn Th,
Lt, Long Xuyn, M Tho, Phan Thit, Ph Cng, Vnh Long, Xun Lc, Ban M
Thut, Nng, Kontum, Nha Trang and Quy Nhn and from the Philippines, namely,
the priests from the different parishes in the Roman Catholic Territorial Archdioceses of
Manila, Nueva Segovia, Tuguegarao, San Fernando, Pampanga, Nueva Caceres, Jaro,
Capiz, Cebu, Palo, Davao, Cotabato, Cagayan de Oro, Ozamiz and Zamboanga and the
Roman Catholic Territorial Dioceses of Laoag, Baguio, Cabanatuan, San Jose, Nueva
Ecija, Bangued, Bayombong, Ilagan, Batanes, Urdaneta, Alaminos, Tarlac, Balanga, Iba,
Malolos, Kalookan, Cubao, Novaliches, Pasig, Antipolo, Paranaque, Imus, San Pablo,
Lipa, Lucena, Gumaca, Infanta, Romblon, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, Calapan,
Oriental Mindoro, Puerto Princesa, Daet, Libmanan, Legaspi, Masbate, Sorsogon, Virac,
San Jose de Antique, Bacolod, Kabankalan, San Carlos, Dumaguete, Tagbilaran, Talibon,
Maasin, Calbayog, Borongan, Catamaran, Naval, Butuan, Surigao, Tandag, Malaybalay,
Digos, Mati, Tagum, Kidapawan, Marbel, Dipolog, Pagadian, Marawi, Iligan, Ipil and
Isabela, 1,009 Roman Catholic territorial dioceses and archdioceses in America, 157
Roman Catholic territorial dioceses and archdioceses in East Asia, 192 Roman Catholic
territorial dioceses and archdioceses belonging to Latin, Syro-Malabar and Syro-
Malankara Rites in South Asia including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka and
514 Roman Catholic territorial dioceses and archdioceses in Europe and 72 Roman
Catholic territorial dioceses and archdioceses in Oceania were listed as con-celebrants
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while the DVD features: a biography of John Paul II and a Quicktime MTV movie
converted to WMV featuring the 1995 World Youth Day theme song "Tell the World of
His Love", interviews, footage and scenes of the making of the song, the five-day visit
are featured in "Mabuhay ang Papa," and the pontiff's speeches, are featured in "Pope's
Messages" and approximately 30 hours of video footage contributed by GMA Network
Channel 7, the TV station that had exclusive coverage of the visit.


The guests included: Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III, Philippine Vice-
President Jejomar C. Binay, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes P.A. Sereno, Senate President
Franklin M. Drilon, House Speaker Feliciano R. Belmonte, Jr., Metropolitan Manila
Development Authority Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino, Philippine National Police
Director General Alan L.M. Purisima, Manila Police District Chief Leocadio Santiago,
Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief-of-Staff General Pio Catapangan, Bangko
Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Amando Tetangco, Jr., Commission on Higher Education
Chairman Patricia B. Licuanan, Cultural Center of the Philippines Chairperson Emily A.
Abrera, National Commission for Culture and the Arts Chairman Felipe M. de Leon Jr.,
Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board Commissioner and CEO Antonio M. Bernardo,
Land Transportation Office Chairman Virginia P. Torres, Land Transportation
Franchising and Regulatory Board Chairman Winston M. Ginez, Association of
Broadcasters of the Philippines Chairman Butch S. Canoy, Executive Secretary Pacquito
Ochoa, Jr., Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala; communications operations office
Secretary Sonny Coloma, Communications and Strategic Planning Office Secretary
Ricky Carandang; Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin; Enviorment and Natural
Resources Secretary Ramon Paje, Jr.; Budget and Management Secretary Florencio
Abad, Jr.; Dr. Enrique Ona, health; Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel A.
Roxas II, foreign affairs secretary Albert del Rosario, Trade and Industry Secretary
Gregory Domingo, Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima, Transportation and
Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio A. Abaya, Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho
Petilla, justice secretary Leila M. de Lima, labor and employment secretary Rosalinda D.
Baldoz, public works and highways secretary Rogelio L. Singson, science and technology
secretary Mario G. Montejo, social welfare and development secretary Corazon J.
Soliman, tourism secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr., Julia Abad-Razon, presidential
management staff; Rochelle R. Ahorro, appointments secretary; deputy presidential
spokesperson Abigail Valte, and presidential spokesperson Atty. Edwin Lacierda, former
senators Heherson Alvarez, Teresa Aquino-Oreta, Butz Aquino, Nikki Coseteng, John
Henry Osmea, Ernesto Herrera, Loi Estrada, Juan Flavier, Robert Jaworski, Ping
Lacson, Kiko Pangilinan, Vicente Paterno, Nene Pimentel, Leticia Ramos-Shahani,
Santanina T. Rasul, Jovito Salonga, Helena Benitez, Eva Estrada-Kalaw, Freddie Webb,
Edgardo Angara, Vic Ziga, Ernesto Tanada and Francisco Tatad, current Senators Sergio
Osmea III, Pia Cayetano, Alan Peter Cayetano, TG Guingona, Bongbong Marcos,
Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Nancy Binay, Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, Jinggoy Estrada, JV
Ejercito, Juan Ponce Enrlie, Ralph Recto and Vicente Sotto III, Majority Floor Leader
Neptali Gonzales II, Ilocos Norte 2nd District Rep. Imelda Marcos, Caloocan Rep. Edgar
R. Erice, Malabon Lone District Rep. Josephine Veronique R. Lacson-Noel, Navotas
Lone District Rep. Toby Tiangco, Maria Theresa B. Bonoan-David of 4th District of
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Manila, Lucy Torres-Gomez of 4th District of Leyte, Karlo Nograles of 1st District of
Davao City, Pedro B. Acharon Jr. of 1st District of South Cotabato and Manny Pacquiao
of Lone District of Sarangani, Associate Justices Antonio Carpio, Presbitero Velasco, Jr.,
Teresita J. Leonardo-de Castro, Arturo D. Brion, Diosdado M. Peralta, Lucas P.
Bersamin, Mariano C. Del Castillo, R. Abad, M. Villarama, Jr., J. Perez, J. Mendoza, B.
Reyes, Esrelita Perlas-Bernabe and Marvic Leonen, former Manila Mayor and Buhay
Party-List Rep. Lito Atienza, former Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim, former Philippine
President and now Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada, current Quezon City Mayor Herbert
Bautista, former Quezon City Mayor Brigido Simon, Caloocan City Mayor Oscar
Malapitan, Malabon City Mayor Len-Len Oreta, Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco,
Valenzuela City Mayor Rexlon Gatchalian, Mandaluyong City Mayor Benhur Abalos,
Marikina City Mayor Del de Guzman, former Pasig City Mayors Vicente, Soledad and
Bobby Eusebio and San Juan City Mayor Guia Gomez, Makati City Mayor Jejomar
Erwin Binay, current Pasig City Mayor Maribel Eusebio, Taguig City Mayor Laarni
Lopez-Cayetano, current Pasay City Mayor Antonio Tony Calixto, former Pasay City
Mayor Wenceslao Peewee Trinidad, former Paranaque City Mayor Joey Marquez,
former Paranaque City Mayor Florencio Bernabe, current Paraaque City Mayor Edwin
Olivarez, Las Pinas City Mayor Vergel A. Aguilar and Muntinlupa City Mayor Jaime
Fresnedi, Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan, Tabuk City, Kalinga mayor Ferdinand
Tubban, United States ambassador Philip S. Goldberg, Canadian ambassador Christopher
Thronley, Spanish ambassador Jorge Domecq, Mexican ambassador Julio Camarena
Villaseor, Bangladeshi ambassador Major Gen. John Gomes, Cambodian ambassador
Tuot Panha, Indian ambassador Ram Trasad, Indonesian ambassador Ade Petranto,
Japanese ambassador Toshinao Urabe, Korean ambassador Hyuk Lee, Lao ambassador
Malayvieng Sakonhninhom, Malaysian Ambassaor Dato Mohd Zamiri Vin Mohd
Kassim, Burmese ambassador Aung Khin Soe, Pakistani ambassador Safdar Hayat,
Marichu Vera Perez, Rev. Fr. Sonny Ramirez, PAGCOR Chairman Ephraim Genuino,
PAGCOR Chairman Cristino L. Naguiat, Jr., former PAGCOR presidents Butch Tenorio
and Rafael Butch Francisco, PAGCOR Chairman Jorge Sarmiento, Philippine Olympic
Committee Chairman Jose Cojuangco, Jr., Philippine Sports Commission Chairman
Ricardo R. Garcia and representatives of businessman Lucio Tan, former Metropolitan
Bank and Trust Company president Tony Abacan, retired Philippine Supreme Court
Chief Justices Hilario Davide, Jr., Artemio Panganiban and Reynato Puno, Fernando
Zobel de Ayala, Bea Zobel, Ayala Land, Inc. president Antonino "Tony" Aquino,
Rowena Tomeldan, AC Legarda, Mark Sablan, Joseph Reyes, Maricris Bernardino, Pivi
Diaz, Rina Rejanit, Bobby Dy, Manuel V. Pangilinan, Tessie Sy-Coson, Tony Tan-
Caktiong, Ramon Ang, Alfred Ty, Arthur Ty, Sari Yap, Lance Gokongwei, Robina
Gokongwei-Pe, Liza Gokongwei-Cheng, Isha Andaya-Valles, Myrza Sison, Jo-ann
Maglipon, ABS-CBN Corporation Chairman Eugenio Gabby Lopez III, ABS-CBN
Corporation President and Chief Content Officer Charo Santos-Concio, Star Cinema
ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc. managing director Malou Santos, Broadcast Head and
Channel 2 Head Cory Valenzuela-Vidanes, television business unit head Laurenti Dyogi,
business unit head for comedy Linggit Tan-Marasigan, ABS-CBN Publishing, Inc.
General Manager Ernie Lopez, Dreamscape Entertainment Television President Deo
Endrinal, Roxy Liquigan, Riley Santiago, Robert Labayen, Mark Yambot, August
Benitez, Nandy Villar, Rico Camus, Raymond Miranda, Mark Lopez, Maricel Arenas,
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Happy Mabulay, Darwin Cerrado, Aldrin Cerrado, Dino Laurena, March Ventosa, Chris
Lopez, Carlo Katigbak, Leo Katigbak, Paolo Pineda, Bong Osorio, Monchet Olives,
Karen Coloma, former ABS-CBN presidents Cito Alejandro and Freddie Garcia, movie
and television directors Johnny Manahan, Arnel Natividad, Toto Natividad, Malu Sevilla,
Rechie del Carmen, Jojo Saguin, Jerry Lopez-Sineneng, Tots Mariscal, Erik Salud, Ruel
Bayani, Ruel Naval, Jerome Pobocan, and Don Cuaresma, 4, 000 Lopez kin from all over
the world, ABS-CBN Manila Radio and Sports Division head Peter Musngi, ABS-CBN
Integrated News and Current Affairs Chief Ging Reyes and Choose Philippines head
Charie Villa, television director Bobbet and son Kobi Vidanes, the members of the Daza,
Valenzuela and Vidanes families, Andrew Tan, Beth Lee, Fe Agudo, Washington Sycip,
Felipe Gozon, Menardo Jimenez, Sr., Jimmy Duavit, Annette Gozon-Abrogar, Lito
Abrogar, Lilybeth G. Rasonable, Regie C. Bautista, Marivin T. Arayata, Jose Mari R.
Abacan, Gigi Santiago-Lara, Darling P. De Jesus, Cheryl Ching-Sy, Teresa L. Pacis,
Bang U. Arespacochaga, Ali Nokom-Dedicatoria, Kenneth Yang, Sanjiv Vohra, Lily Yu-
Monterverde, Wilson Tieng, Philippine Daily Inquirer board chairman Marixi Rufino-
Prieto, Philippine Daily Inquirer president Alexandra Prieto-Romualdez, Philippine Daily
Inquirer editor-in-chief Letty Jimenez-Magsanoc, United States Embassy spokesperson
Rebecca Thompson, as well guests were media agencies and advocacy partners, former
Negros and Philippine National Bank board of director, Miguel Mike Romero, socialite
and television personality Cory Quirino, bag designer Sylvia Santos, fashion designers JC
Buendia, Randy Ortiz, Jojie Lloren, Dong Omaga Diaz, Joey Samson, Ivarluski Aseron,
Vittorio Barba, Gerry Katigbak, Frederick Peralta, Rajo Laurel, Len Nepomuceno, Hindy
Weber-Tantoco, Ramon Esteban, PJ Aranador, Edwin Ao, OJ Hofer, Arcy Gayatin, Tippi
Ocampo, Avel Bacudio, Jerome Salaya Ang, Joel Escober, Anthony Nocom, Albert
Andrada, Noel Crisostomo, Ronaldo Arnaldo, Kristel Yulo, Happy Andrada, Pablo
Cabahug and James Reyes, FDAP designers Johnny Abad, Ricky Abad, Dexter Alaza,
Nino Angeles, Delby Bragais, Karen Castro, Kirby Cruz, Ivan dela Cruz, Perry Diaz,
Lynn Roxas, Boyet Dysanco, Ricco Escaro, Rocky Gathercole, Genar Gozum, Pristine de
Guzman, Adin Lara, Paul Ranier Lim, Noelle Llave, Edgar Madamba, Jontie Martinez,
Nikkie Martinez, Ole Morabe, Vivo Nazareth, Dave Ocampo, Lito Perez, Nholie Pilapil,
Joyce Pilarsky, Aan Pineda, Raoul Ramirez, Yako Reyes, Rholand Roxas, Edgar San
Diego, Fanny Serrano, Edwin Uy, Simon Ariel Vasquez, Geoffrey Zordilla, independent
fashion designers Jun Escario, Michelle Sison, Patrice Ramos Diaz, Charina Sarte, Cary
Santiago, Dennis Lustico, John Paras, Bea Albert, Eric de los Santos, Maureen Desini,
Vania Romoff, Martin Bautista, John/Paul Herrera, Ronald Mendoza, Audie Espino,
Sidney Perez Sio, Goullee Gorospe and Raoul Ramirez, countrys design icons Inno
Sotto, Auggie Cordero, Pepito Albert, Cesar Gaupo, Lulu Tan-Gan, Mike de la Rosa and
Loretto, Efren Ocampo and The Dean of Filipino Fashion Designers Ben Farrales, Atty.
Esperidion Laxa, Tony Ferrer, Lawrence Tan, Atty. Joji Villanueva-Alonso, former
Ilocos Rep. Roque RoquitoAblan, Kapamilya and non-Kapamilya stars couple Iya
Villania and Drew Arellano, Bianca Manalo, Sitti Navarro, Jasmine Curtis Smith, James
Blanco, Eric Tai, K Brosas, Claudine Barretto and Raymart Santiago, Randy Santiago, G
Toengi-Walters, Kean Cipriano, Bamboo Manalac, Binibining Pilipinas 2013 winners
Cindy Miranda and Pia Romero, Miss International 2013 Bea Rose Santiago, Miss
Universe 2013 3rd Runner-Up Ariella Arida, Katherine de Castro-Cruz, Oyo Boy Sotto,
Rowell Santiago, Dominique Cojuangco, Dina Bonnevie with husband Ilocos Sur Vice-
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Governor Deogracias Victor Savellano, Jericho Rosales, apl.de.ap, Eddie Garcia and
Richard Gomez, Sen. Grace Poe-Llamanzares, Sen. Sonny Angara with wife Tootsy, The
Philippine STAR columnists RJ Ledesma, Stephanie Zubiri-Crespi, and Tim Yap, The
Philippine STAR lifestyle section editor Millet Martinez-Mananquil, Philippine Daily
INQUIRER Lifestyle section editor Thelma Sioson-San Juan, Meralco Bolts coach
Norman Black, Ateneo mens basketball coach Bo Perasol and his players Kiefer Ravena,
Thirdy Ravena and Von Pessumal, former players Doug Kramer, JC Intal, Macky
Escalona, Nico Salva, Bacon Austria, Tonino Gonzaga, Emman Monfort, Frank Golla,
Oping Sumalinog, JP Erram and Jai Reyes, Sen. Bong Revilla Jr., William Lao, Mother
Lily Monterverde, Shirley Kuan, Deedee Sytangco, Sec. Sonny Coloma, Beth Tagle,
Rep. Dax and Midy Cua, Dolly Anne Carvajal-Mendoza, Lily Layug, Arthur Manuntag,
Christine Singson, Grace Singson, Tess Daza, Jackie Aquino-Gavino, Joy Melendrez,
Tonypet Albano, Maricar Bhel, Reps. Uliran Joaquin, Hermilando Mandanas, Annie
Susano and Butch Dumpit, Vanessa Francisco, Annabelle Rama-Gutierrez, Boots Anson-
Roa, Snow Tago, Charmaine Yu, Greg Yu, Edmund Lim and Ramon Jacinto, Million
People March celebrity supporters Ogie Alcasid, Bianca Gonzales and Jim Paredes,
TV5s Willie Revillame, Father and son Pen and Ping Medina, Celebrity cousins Isabelle
Daza and Georgina Wilson, Mariel Rodriguez, JC Tiuseco, Georgina Wilson, Miriam
Quiambao, Gretchen Ho, John Lapus, Kean Cipriano, Comedienne Candy Pangilinan,
with friends Arnell Ignacio and directors Joey Reyes and Manny Castaeda, Ramon
Bautista, TV host Raymond Gutierrez, Mae Paner, Pinky Amador, Leo Valdez, Noel
Trinidad and Robin Padilla, 1986 EDSA veterans Leah Navarro, Mitch Valdez, and
Maan Hontiveros, Megastar Sharon Cuneta and Atty. Kiko Pangilinan, Kris Aquino,
Christopher de Leon and Sandy Andolong, Rez Cortez, William Martinez and Yayo
Aguila, Lani Mercado-Revilla, Lorna Tolentino-Fernandez, Tirso Cruz III and wife Lyn
and son Bodie, Eric Quizon, G. Toengi and Romnick Sarmenta, Kuh Ledesma, Grace
Nono, Louie Heredia and Dingdong Avanzado, Bro. Eddie Villanueva presidential
campaign supporters Coney Reyes, Karla Martinez, Piolo Pascual, Dolphy Quizon, Jr.,
Donita Rose, Nonoy Zuniga, Prof. Jeremias Jangad, PBA player James Yap and sons
Joshua and Bimby Aquino-Yap, Fastbreak 2 basketball players Derek Ramsey, Luis
Alandy, Xian Lim, Jhong Hilario, Vhong Navarro, Billy Crawford, Gerald Anderson,
Chris Tiu, Young JV, Ervic Vijandre, Gilas cadet player Matthew Ganuelas, and Kevin
Alas, BENCH/ family stars and 6200: The Mission Possible Project personalities Kim
Chiu, Karylle, Jeric and Jeron Teng, Enchong Dee, Joseph Marco, Lovi Poe, singer
Rachelle Ann Go and Markki Stroem, Mr. Chinatown 2013 winners Sky Yang, Jerome
Tan and Randy See; Mark Lopez, Jairus Ferrer, Alec Robes, Be Bench: The Model
Search finalist Ron Morales; Carlos Concepcion; Yeng Constantino; Pinoy Dream
Academy Season 2 scholar Hansen Nichols with his twin brother GC, BENCH/ Rajo
Laurel Dos collection models Sam Concepcion, Rocco Nacino, Steven Silva, Enzo
Pineda, Sarah Lahbati and Regine Angeles, America's Next Top Model's Dominique
Reighard and Allison Harvard, models-turned-actors David Chua and Miko Raval,
Luisito Rabat, GMA Network Artist Center talents Gloria Romero-Gutierrez, Pilita
Corrales, Aljur Abrenica, Louise delos Reyes, Mark Herras, Yasmien Kurdi, LJ Reyes,
Julie Anne San Jose, Kristoffer Martin, Derrick Monasterio, Barbie Forteza, Bela Padilla,
Bea Binene, Max Collins, Rafael Rosell, Glaiza de Castro, Rochelle Pangilinan, Mona
Louise Rey, Jonalyn Viray, Kyla Calumpad-Alvarez, Jay-R Silliona, Mark Bautista, Chef
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Boy Logro, Manilyn Reynes, Angelu de Leon, Mark Anthony Fernandez, Gabby
Eigenmann, Raymond Bagatsing, Ricky Davao, Anjo Yllana and Wally Bayola, GMA
News anchors and reporters Arnold Clavio, Sandra Aguinaldo, Raffy Tima and Mariz
Umali, Oscar Oida, Mark Salazar, Jun Veneracion, Chino Gaston, Weatherman Nathaniel
Cruz, media personalities Dong Puno, Chiqui Roa-Puno, Jeanne Young, Cory Quirino,
Mel Tiangco and Jay Sonza, Mons Romulo, Tonyboy Cojuangco and Gretchen Barretto,
Korina Sanchez, Karen Davila, who came with her sons David and Lucas, Miguel Pastor,
Joy Ortega, Edu Manzano, Robi Domingo, Peping Cojuangco daughters Mikee
Cojuangco-Jaworski, China Cojuangco-Gonzalez (and her adorable baby Lucia), Mai-
Mai Cojuangco, composer Ryan Cayabyab and his wife Emmy, Rowell Santiago, Celeste
Legaspi, JM Rodriguez, Arnold Vegafria and Cris Villonco, entertainment news reporters
Mario Dumaual and Gretchen Fullido, Gary Valenciano, Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo,
Albert Martinez, Mylene Dizon, Iza Calzado, Vina Morales, Shaina Magdayao, Erik
Santos, Ogie Diaz, Gary Vs wife Angeli Pangilinan-Valenciano, Angeline Quinto, Arron
Villaflor, Christian Bautista, Basil Valdez, Sam Milby, Gina Godinez, musical director
and arranger Homer Flores, music composer Louie Ocampo and wife Jojo, Renna
Angeles, Baby Fricke, Karen Santos, Bing-Bing Quiros, Gina Aboitiz, Nick and Lucille
Locsin, Paul Campos, Tony and Chingbee Cuenca, Manny Miana, J. Anton Mendoza,
Budji Layug, Royal Pineda, Ed Calma, Milo Naval, Tony Gonzales, Tes Pasola, Kenneth
Cobonpue, Ana Rocha, Bart Guingona, Jinggoy Buensuceso, Jaime Chua, Agot Isidro,
Liezel Martinez, Rachel Alejandro and Joanna Ampil, volleyball stars Dzi Gervacio, Jem
Ferrer, Fille Cainglet-Cayetano, A Nacachi, Rachel Daquis, Jovelyn Gonzaga, Alyssa
Valdez, Denden Lazaro, Charo Soriano, Marge Tejada, Melissa Gohing, Mary Jean
Balse, Mayeth Carolino, Michelle Carolino, Ella De Jesus, Kara Acevedo, Karla Bello,
Stephanie Gabriel, Mae Tajima, Jayson Ramos, Maica Morada, Jed Montero, Michelle
Laborte, Sasa Devanadera, Grethcel Soltones, Joy Benito, Rubie De Leon, Mae
Crisostomo, Ynna Hao, Tina Salak, JP Torres, Dahlia Cruz, Nene Bautista, Aiza Maizo,
Maika Ortiz, Rhea Dimaculangan, Denise Tan, Venus Bernal, Jheck Dionela, Angge
Tabaquero, Bea Pascual, Judy Caballejo, AJ Pareja, Myco Antonio, Henry Pecana, Rex
Intal, Dindin Santiago, Jaja Santiago, Princess Gaiser, Shiela Bang Pineda, Mayette
Zapanta, Rosemarie Vargas, Jen Reyes, Angela Benting, Pau Soriano, Peter Torres,
Michelle Gumabao, Cha Cruz, Stephanie Mercado, Jeshul Wensh Tiu, Renz Casanova,
Joanne Siy, Loren Lantin, Mia Hirotsuji, Pamela Lastimosa, Ingrid Reyes, Jessey De
Leon, Carmela Tunay, Chloe Cortez, Alex Cabanos, Patricia Rasmo, Illa Santos, Joanne
Bunag, Jacqueline Alarca and Ers Iratay, socialites Baby Araneta Fores, Lisa Araneta,
Cacho Marcos, Linda Oledan, Veana Fores, Lorrie Reynoso, Vicky Zubiri, Maricris
Zobel, Carol Garcia, Maripi Muscat and Margarita Fores, Anton Mendoza, Monch Cruz,
Chut Cuerva, Marcel Crespo, Ipe Cruz of Rogue Magazine, Marco Lobregat, Ching Cruz,
Tina Cuevas, Agnes Huibonhoa, Fe Rodriguez, Susan Joven, Ian Giron, Andres Vasquez
Prada and Al Tengco, travel friends Pops Fernandez-Nievera, Doris Magsaysay Ho, Gina
Lopez, Evelyn Forbes, Marc Nelson, Ricco and Tina Maristela-Ocampo, Rikki and Beng
Dee, Philip and Tricia Cu-Unjieng, Sander and Mons Romulo-Tantoco, Philippine
National Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon, Renna Hechanova Angeles, Karen
Santos, Bobby and Chingbee Cuenca, Gina Aboitiz, Baby Girl Fricke, Gina Godinez,
Maurice Arcache and ace photographer Alex Van Hagen, Jojie Dingcong, Jean
Goulbourn, Frances Lim and Paul Campos, Dennis and Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Ernest
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Escaler, Ces Orena-Drilon, Dyan Castillejo-Garcia, Jackie Castillejo-Guingona, Eric
Quizon, Liza Ilarde, Ana Kalaw, Anton San Diego, Raul Teehankee, Pepper Teehankee,
McCann Erickson Client Service Director Bernadette Chincuanco, Coca-Cola Philippines
Marketing Director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe & IMC Director Yasmin Mallari, Mariko
Jacinto, Aye Nuguid, Leah Puyat, Anton Barretto and Jack de Mesa, Coca-Cola ASEAN
Business Unit President Manuel Arroyo, Coca-Cola Philippines President & General
Manager Guillermo Aponte, marketing director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe and Franchise
and Commercial Leadership Director Peter Schaelstraete together with the Coca-Cola
Philippines team: Johanna Hife, Steve Little, Rogie Delena, Raymond Villaflor, Teejae
Sonza, Jobert Dumlao, Sharon Tanganco, Roki Ferrer, Rachel Cruz, Francis Chua, Franz
Decloedt, Yasmin Mallari, Jenny Cinco, Jing Atienza, Criselda Pascual, Mavel
Banocnoc, Thess Acuna, Franco Jorge, Stephanie Castillo, Tish Condeno, Jaideep Kibe,
Nicamae Baylen, Jenalyn Perez, Barry del Rosario, and Nikki Lee, Suyen Corporation's
Nene and Virgilio Lim, Bryan Lim and Suyen Lim, Carlos Chan's children Carlson,
Archie, Rinby, Larry, Oszen and Shera, Suyen Corporation Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer Ben Chan, stylist Noel Manapat, public relations practitioner, events
orgainzer and Enchong Dee and Joseph Marcos manager Keren Pascual, Korina
Sanchezs manager Girlie Rodis and Star Magic handler Monch Novales, actor-models
Victor Basa and Victor Aliwalas, TAPE, Inc. president and chief executive officer
Antonio P. Tuviera, TAPE, Inc. chairman-emeritus Romeo P. Jalosjos, TV5 President-
Emeritus and The Philippine STAR Chairman Atty. Ray C. Espinosa, TV5 President and
CEO Noel Lorenzana, Ariel Fermin, Gary Dujali, News5 head Luchi Cruz-Valdes and
Sports5 head and Gilas Pilipinas Basketball Coach Chot Reyes, Former Professional
Models Association of the Philippines board members and fashion luminaries Tina
Maristela Ocampo, Izza Gonzales-Agana, Desiree Verdadero-Abesamis, Marina
Benipayo, Patty Betita, Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, Den Abesamis, Hans Montenegro,
Grace Molina and Ariel Atendido, Robert Mananquil, models Robby Mananquil, and
Raya Mananquil-de Leon, and Rissa Mananquil-Trillo with Valerie de los Santos; Ateneo
Blue Eagles team manager Paolo Trillo; Current Professional Models Association of the
Philippines president Phoemela Baranda also came with Manilas favourite models Grace
Tagle, Bubbles Paraiso, Luke Jickain, Mia Ayesa, Sanya Smith, Mika Lagdameo-
Martinez, Antoinette Enciso-Ocampo, Angel Agustin-Co and Marilen Faustino-
Montenegro.
The largest gathering attended by more than 5 million people, which of residents from all
over the Philippines and 226 countries of the world.
This coverage: The Pope in Manila, which will be aired live on a nationwide
simultaneous hook-up of radio and television stations.
RPN-9 will be the carrying station with the People's Television Network, Inc. (PTV-4),
IBC-13, and ABS-CBN Channel 2 hooked up along with all Bureau of Broadcast
Services-Radyo ng Bayan radio stations.
The entrance hymn had to be sung before the mass began in earnest. Priest in charge of
the event enjoined the crowd to sing, to pray and even to do a "love wave" to help while
away the time and to stretch aching muscles
Neither the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila nor the Vatican had prepared for
such an eventually. There, was some discussion on whether the pontiff should take a
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helicopter or a boat through Manila Bay to the Luneta when the sheer size of the crowd
exceeded all expectations.
The mass of people stretched from north to south from the Manila Hotel all way down to
the Ramon Magsaysay Building on Roxas Boulevard. No blacktop was visible from as
far as huge portions of T.M. Kalaw, U.N. Avenue and Padre Faura, three major streets
perpendicular to the main road fronting the venue of the Jesus is Lord Church
Anniversary event.
Pope Francis, the Bishop of Rome and the leader of the Worldwide Roman Catholic
Church, delivered the homily.
Vidal, like Tagle, is strongly against the impeachment complaint was filed against
President Aquino, the Charter change, the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, the
tension against China over the Scarborough Shoal, the Development Acceleration
Program (DAP) and Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam of
businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles, the rehabilitation after the Zamboanga siege to the
onslaught Yolanda caused in Visayas, the P316-million Philippine Charity Sweepstakes
Office funds scam, P6.6 billion housing scam of Delfin Lee's Globe Asiatique (GA),
P728 million fertilizer fund scam, the construction of major infrastructure projects, the
crime rate in Metro Manila including robbery holdups, the high-profile killings, and the
onslaught of typhoon Glenda and the 100 million population mark.
During the holy mass, seminarians, parish choirs and guest artists will render praise songs
and traditional music. Meanwhile, bands from the Philippine Army and the Philippine
Navy will also be on hand to provide music.
In his 1 hour 30 minute homily during the Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Anniversary
Celebration Holy Mass; Pope Francis the First of Argentina praised Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide founder, president and spiritual director bishop Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva for
his belated birthday party and for the annual anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord
Church Worldwide and for the success of the annual tri-media coverage live on radio and
television stations all over the world and on social media.
During the Thanksgiving Mass officiated by the Pope himself, a mass wedding took
place, in which 3,000,000 junior and senior couples who had been living together as
common-law spouses finally tied the knot.
Representatives of labor, women and children, fisher folk, farmers, indigenous
communities and other sectors will join the Villanueva Family in the offertory
procession.
During communion, Villarojo advised the people not to flock to the main altar.
They should stay put until they see a communion distributor marked by umbrellas, he
said.
Villarojo said there are 2,000 communion distributors. Of the number 1,600 are lay
ministers. They will be augmented by Roman Catholic priests and nuns.
After the communion, Pinto, the papal nuncio, will deliver a message.
After the Mass, the Pope led the Angelus Message followed the Angelus prayer and
delivered his farewell messages to the people in Spanish, Italian, French, Russian,
German, Korean, Vietnamese, Standard Mandarin, Hong Kong Cantonese, Malay,
Indonesian, Japanese, Filipino, Ilokano, Ibanag, Ibaloi, Pangasenese, Kapangpangan,
Central Bikolano, Waray-Waray, Cebuano, Butuano, Chavacano and English.
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President Aquino, who sought the permission of the archdiocese so he can deliver his
message to the Filipinos, will have to make his piece after the Mass.
The Holy Mass was ended with the final blessing and the message of the president, a
cultural presentation will be made. This will be participated in by Pasigarbo sa Sugbo
contingents from Minglanilla, Talisay City, and Mandaue City. The Lumad Basakanon,
who has reaped awards during the Sinulog festivities, will also be part of the presentation.
Dinner for the special guests will be served at the Fiesta Pavillion of Manila Hotel.
At the Luneta and at least 10 shrines around the Philippines, there will be processions to
be led by images of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The concelebrated mass, which will project the Philippines as a pilgrimage destination in
Asia, will be covered by the national multi-media with possible hook-up by satellite. It
will also be recorded, with the videotape to be sent to the Sister Angelica Channel.
The religious activity has been arranged in cooperation with the Wells Spring of Life,
Sacred Land of Asia, Marian Movement, Charismatic Movement of the Philippines,
Confradia, and Association of Shrine Rectors and Pilgrimage Promoters of the
Philippines.
Bishop Teodoro C. Bacani, the overall spiritual adviser of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer
Partners Foundation International, Inc. and bishop-emeritus of Novaliches, spoke briefly
to the crowd on how their charismatic renewal religious movements and the Catholic
hierarchy could differ on certain issues but remain united on basic Catholic tenets.
We may agree on our politics, but we are united in faith, Bacani said in Pilipino in his
message just before midnight.
He then quoted a Catholic saint who said: If there is doubt, let there be differences.
Bacani, who had earlier joined the Makati anti-Charter change and anti-pork barrel rally,
told the crowd that Cardinal Tagle had asked him to relay his belated birthday greetings
to Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, international president and spiritual director
Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva, who celebrated his birthday on October 6.
He asked the crowd to show their appreciation for the Asia's 36 archbishops--Manila
Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle, Manila Archbishop-Emeritus Gaudencio
Cardinal B. Rosales, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Emeritus Ernesto Antolin Salgado,
Nueva Segovia Archbishop Emeritus Edmundo M. Abaya, Nueva Segovia Archbishop
Mario M. Perlata, Tuguegarao Archbishop Sergio L. Utleg, Tuguegarao Archbishop-
Emeritus Diosdado A. Talamayan, Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop-Emeritus Oscar
Cardinal V. Cruz, Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates B. Villegas, San Fernando
Archbishop Emeritus Paciano Cardinal B. Aniceto, San Fernando Archbishop Florentino
G. Lavarias, Lipa Archbishop Ramon C. Arguelles, Nueva Caceres Archbishop Rolando
O. Joven Tria Tirona, Capiz Archbishop Jose F. Advincula, Jaro Archbishop Angel N.
Lagdameo, Cebu Archbishop-Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal J. Vidal, Cebu Archbishop Jose
S. Palma, Palo Archbishop-Emeritus Pedro R. Dean, Jr., Palo Archbishop John F. Du,
Davao Archbishop-Emeritus Fernando R. Capalla, Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles,
Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Cardinal B. Quevedo, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop-
Emeritus Jesus B. Tuquib, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, Ozamiz
Archbishop Jesus A. Dosado and Zamboanga Archbishop Romulo T. Dela Cruz.
We love you Cardinal Tagle, we love you Cardinal Vidal, we love you Cardinal Palma,
we love you Cardinal Rosales, Bacani and the El Shaddai members chorused.
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The breathtaking fireworks also featured small chrysanthemum designs that slowly burst
and transformed into a giant chrysanthemum of various colors.
It was set off at 8 p.m. from four barges in Manila Bay 250 meters off the shore, between
the Manila Yacht Club and the US Embassy.
The show, which started 30 minutes at 12 midnight, Monday, October 27 late due to
delays in the celebration, lasted a half-hour and was met with a roar of applause by
people at the parade grounds.
People froze in their tracks and the world seemed to stand still when the first blast of
fireworks was set off.
Shapes and designs in various colors painted the night sky.
People who booked rooms in hotels on Roxas Boulevard had the best view of the sky
show. People on the ground had to crane their necks as trees lining the boulevard partly
blocked their views.
A total of 700 effects were displayed, including designs of indigenous flowers and heart-
shaped stars.
It was learned that the whole production cost P17 million, way above the budget of P5
million provided by the Philippine National Centennial Commission for the project.
Teary-eyed creator
The display was seen as far as five kilometers away and was visible from the historic
Corregidor Island where Allied Forces made their last stand against the invading
Japanese Imperial Army during World War II.
Ricardo Crisostomo, president of Hannah Corporation, one of the two companies which
created the pyrotechnics display, was almost in tears as he directed the firing of shots
from a remote control center at the Quirino Grandstand grounds.
The presentation, dubbed as Kulay at Kinang ng Kalayaan, took a year to prepare, just
in time for the pastoral and state visit of Pope Francis here in the Philippines on October
23 to 27, 2014, and cost almost P17 million.
Crisostomo and a crew of 18 Filipinos and 20 foreigners had spent six days at the Manila
Harbor Center, owned by R2 Builders, to set up the shells on the barges.
17,000 shells
As millions of revelers watched the celebration that snaked through Roxas Boulevard, the
four barges of Metropolitan Shipping silently sailed into the Manila Yacht Club before 5
p.m.
The barges resembled small missile platforms, with black PVC pipes from Liberty Pipes
containing pyrotechnic shells standing erect on wooden supports and sand bags.
A total of 17,000 shells were fired. The 12-inch diameter shells shot up as high as 1,400
feet in the air and spread as wide as 1,300 feet.
In an interview hours before they sailed from the Manila Harbor Center to the launch site
some six kilometers away, Crisostomo sounded confident that nothing, not even a rain
shower, would spoil the show.
This happens only once in a year, said Crisostomo, 44, who personally oversaw the
completion of the production.
Biodegradable items
They had three public test runs, albeit on a smaller scale, before last night's show.
The fireworks were set off by electrical switches, and any misfiring or manmade accident
would automatically cut off the current and stop the show.
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Crisostomo said the fireworks used biodegradable materials such as kraft paper, resin and
potassium nitrate, more commonly known as salitre.
Crisostomo's Hannah Corporation had collaborated with US-based Global Pyro Networks
in creating the masterpiece. Experts were also hired from two established pyrotechnics
firms abroad, Nico of Germany and Glorious Company of China.
Hannah was one of the firms which produced the fireworks display during the opening
night of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics as well as the July 1, 1997 Hong Kong handover and
the June 12, 1998 Philippine Centennial Celebrations.
Among the government agencies that took part in the fireworks display were the
Department of National Defense, Navy, Department of Interior and Local Government,
Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Department of Health, Bureau of
Customs, Department of Transportation and Communications, Air Transportation Office,
Manila City Hall and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.
Fireworks will also follow the President's Jesus is Lord Church Anniversary celebration
speech.
The El Shaddai members were expected to be kept awake until an 8 a.m. breakfast
Monday, October 27, staying up to listen to the evangelical talks, religious testimonies
and gospel hymns which are common fare at their weekly Family Appointment.
The documentary about the "Big Four Religious Groups" aired at 12:30 a.m. Features the
photos and videos of Iglesia ni Cristo gatherings from 1914 to 2014, Jesus Miracle
Crusade International Ministry gatherings from 1975 to 2014, Jesus is Lord
Church events and gatherings from 1978 to 2013, photos and video clips of El Shaddai
gatherings from 1984 to 2014.
After the Holy Mass, a candlelight ceremony was held followed by the delivery of the
healing message of El Shaddai founder and servant-leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde.
3-hour speech
In Luneta, El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Fellowship Foundation International, Inc.
Roman Catholic Charismatic Religious Renewal Movement founder and servant-leader
Bro. Mike Z. Velarde delivered a three-hour worship and healing prayer rally at 4 a.m.,
Monday, October 27 to the El Shaddai DWXI-PPFI and Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide
members still gathered at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park before dawn October 20.
In his healing message, he expounded that to attain a lasting unity in our society; every
Filipino should reconcile to God and to one another, love one another, and learn to accept
one another. He concluded his message with a healing and deliverance prayer which
included five particular intentions, as follows: that God forgive the sins of our nation; that
He grant us the freedom we seek in our land; that He grant us amnesia from the past
and the courage to look forward to our future with faith, love and unity; that He grant
divine wisdom and extra-ordinary courage to President Benigno S. Aquino III so he could
continue his vision of ASEAN Economic Community 2015 and Philippines 2016; and
that God grant to all of us the extraordinary power to remain firm in our faith.
So effective was President Benigno S. Aquino IIIs portrayal of himself as the underdog
and victim in the ongoing debate on Charter change, the Bangsamoro Framework
Agreement, the tension against China, the Development Acceleration Program (DAP)
and Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam of whistle-blower Janet Lim-
Napoles, P6.6 billion housing scam of Delfin Lee's Globe Asiatique (GA), P728 million
fertilizer fund scam, the construction of major infrastructure projects, the crime rate in
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Metro Manila including robbery holdups, the passage of the Freedom of Information
(FOI) bill, the alleged suppression of the press, the resurgence of the Marcos family, the
carjacking cases and high-profile killings and incidents, in Metro Manila, the massacre in
Atimonan, Quezon; his order to stop support to the Officers Ladies Club; the plunder
charges filed against Philippine National Police Director General Alan L.M. Purisima
before the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with the alleged anomalous deal the
PNP entered into with a courier service; disappointment among legitimate firearms
holders over the stricter issuance of permit to carry firearms outside residence and license
to own and possess firearms; the P316-million funds from the Philippine Charity
Sweepstakes Office, extend the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) by
five years, the transfer of assignment of Task Force Tugis chief Senior Superintendent
Conrado Capa after the arrest of Globe Asiatique president Delfin Lee; and the spate of
killings nationwide, the Bohol Earthquake rehabilitation, the Yolanda rehabilitation that
Velarde and Villanueva said he consoled him after Mr. Aquino's speech on Saturday,
October 25.
I told the President, don't be provoked by those who try to provoke you, Velarde,
speaking in Pilipino, told the crowd which had grown during the night, spilling over from
Roxas Boulevard to north and southbound areas of Taft Avenue, T.M. Kalaw Street and
United Nations Avenue into Ermita, extending up to Maria Orosa Street, Padre Burgos
Drive, Port Area district, Jones, Ayala, McArthur and Quezon Bridges to Plaza Miranda
in Quiapo.
In the early morning of Monday, October 27, thousands of doves for peace and prosperity
were released by the attendees.
The gathering ended with a Joyful Breakfast Salo-Salo at 7:00 a.m. and lasted until 8:30
a.m., Monday, October 27.
El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International, Inc. Roman Catholic
Charismatic Renewal Religious Movement founder and servant-leader Bro. Mike Z.
Velarde, Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, international president and spiritual
director Bishop Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva and Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III
were having dinner in the VIP Lounge at the Quirino Grandstand on Sunday, October 26
when the two charismatic leaders advised tolerance. El Shaddai founder and servant-
leader Bro. Mike Z. Velarde and Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, president and
spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie C. Villanueva is the Presidents spiritual adviser
since 2010.
Velarde and Villanueva enjoined his followers: Let us pray for those that oppress us,
referring both to the President's critics and those who have questioned the Jesus is Lord
Church Worldwide's timing of its October grand annual anniversary celebration and
prayer assembly to coincide with the Makati rally over the Development Acceleration
Program (DAP) and Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam.
Villanuevas birthday coincides with Jesus is Lord Church Worldwides anniversary
celebration. It has traditionally been held on the Second or Third Saturday nearest
October since 1979. He was born on October 6, 1932 in Bocaue, Bulacan to Joaquin T.
Villanueva and Maria Cruz-Villanueva, both now deceased. (The elder Villanueva was a
former Olympic sprinter who represented the Philippines in the Far Eastern Games for
four consecutive years in 1924).
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Pastor Almeda, Pastor Quiboloy, Bro. Velarde, Bro. Villanueva, Bro. Bo Sanchez, Bro.
Eli C. Soriano and Iglesia ni Cristo executive director Bro. Eduardo V. Manalo have
expressed support for Development Acceleration Program (DAP) is limited to the
economic provisions.
But Velarde, Villanueva, Sanchez, Almeda was not about to clash head on with the
Catholic Church, specifically Cardinal Tagle, on the issue of Charter change, the
Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, pork barrel scam, the illegal rice smuggling, the
construction of major infrastructure projects and extrajudictorial and high-profile killings.
Instead, they asked El Shaddai, Iglesia ni Cristo, Light of Jesus, Members of Church of
God International and Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide members to pray for the
Cardinal's health, So he may become stronger.
He told his followers: There is a time for anger and there is a time for love.
But the INQUIRER learned that apart from its weekly scheduled gathering every
Saturday and Sunday, El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International wrote
the National Parks Development Committee to reserve on July 26, or five days after Mae
Paner announced the pro-democracy rally in Makati.
FABC Anniversary and Eleventh General Assembly
After the 3-day weekend extravaganza lasted from Saturday, October 25 to Monday,
October 27, Pope Francis told the Roman Catholic Territorial bishops of Asia that as the
next Philippine presidential administration in 2016 approaches, evangelization remains
the highest priority of the Church and the National Government, but he also cautioned
that evangelization must never be imposed.
In an address to the Eleventh Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops
Conferences (FABC), he declared the act of faith, and reception into the communion of
the Church through Baptism, must always be entirely free.
He told more than 150 Roman Catholic Territorial bishops of Asia in the early morning
of October 27 at San Carlos Seminary in Makati City, Metro Manila that evangelization
involves love and respect for those evangelized. While ever insisting on the Churchs
right and duty to proclaim with joy the Good News of Gods mercy, Catholics must
carefully avoid any suspicion of coercion or devious persuasion.
He insisted, If the Church in Asia is to fulfill its providential destiny, evangelization as
the joyful, patient and progressive preaching of the saving Death and Resurrection of
Jesus Christ must be your absolute priority.
Accusations of proselytism -- which is far from the Churchs missionary spirit -- and a
one-sided understanding of religious pluralism and tolerance should not be allowed to
stifle your mission to the peoples of Asia. he said.
Congratulating the FABC on its 45th anniversary, the Holy Father, Pope Francis
observed that rapid technological progress and economic growth have revolutionized the
face of Asia since the FABC was conceived in 1970.
While affirming the benefits of this development, he urged the bishops, the Church
must nevertheless make a realistic assessment of the price paid for this modernization and
confront those aspects which pose an immense threat to life: not only to the life of
individuals but also to that of civilization itself (Letter to Families, 21).
Noting that the transformation of the spiritual landscape is even more striking than
Asias material progress, the pope explained to the bishops: Religious indifferentism
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and exaggerated individualism now threaten the traditional values which, generally
speaking, bestowed meaning and harmony on the life of individuals and on the
communities they composed.
The forces of secularization tend to undermine your rich religious and cultural heritage.
This great continent is at a spiritual crossroads.
The popes presentation, delivered on his behalf and in his presence by Italian Cardinal
Beniamino Stella, prefect of the Vaticans Congregation for the Clergy, came about
halfway through the FABCs 10-day plenary from October 20 to 26, 2014 part of the
annual Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Anniversary Festival, whose annual theme is
Christian Discipleship in Asia Today: Service to Life.
Pope Francis explained that he asked Cardinal Sanchez to read his talk, so as to expedite
the delivery. When Cardinal Stella finished, the pope said, What I wrote, I wrote, and it
should be read, but added, What I meditated on should also be revealed.
He then began speaking spontaneously on the need in the near future for a synod of Asian
bishops, just as the African bishops met in synod last year (2013).
Next, he referred to the Mass that he had celebrated that on October 26 in Manilas
Luneta Park for the annual anniversary celebration of evangelical Christian and Roman
Catholic Charismatic renewal religious movement Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide,
locally described as the greatest papal Mass in history with more than four million
people attending.
The pope said that as he was ending the extraordinary experience" of his visit to Manila
with people calling him the pope of the People, he was trying in this talk to the FABC
to "underline not youth but specificity.
Though he did not intend, he continued, to be called the pope of synods, he strongly
favored holding synods as a fruit of Vatican (Council) II.
He explained that just as Christ selected not one but 12 to form the first college of
bishops, so the apostolic body of Asian bishops should look for proper expression as a
body and thereby maintain the Churchs tradition, magisterial spirit and collegiality as
such.
Pointing out that the first millennium had many synods, he said Vatican II was creating
this new synod era of the Church, and as he meditated on the coming Philippine
presidential elections in May 2016, I thought of the need to return to the synod
experience.
The ad limina visits of every bishop to the pope are one form sharing, he noted, as are
praying together and the agape of eating meals together, but we also need to meet as
representatives of the whole collegium of bishops.
The pope stayed with the bishops another two hours to have their photos taken with him
and to enjoy his last dinner in Manila with them.
Participants:

Papal departure
The following morning, Monday, October 27, the Pope left Manila for Port Moresby in
Papua New Guinea. In his farewell speech before some 10,000 people at the old Manila
International Airport, the Pontiff said: The Pope feels so well in the Philippines that he
looks at another opportunity perhaps to return.

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He added: I take with me a thousand images of the Filipino people.

FAREWELL CEREMONY: ADDRESS OF HIS HOLINESS, POPE FRANCIS (Ninoy
Aquino International Airport, Pasay City, Metro Manila, Monday, October 27, 2014)

Dear Filipino Friends, My Pastoral Visit to the beautiful Philippines is now at an end. I
wish to thank everyone for the warmth and graciousness of the hospitality I have received
from the first moment of my arrival. In a special way I am grateful to His Excellency
President, Benigno S. Aquino III and the members of the Government for their close
participation in each stage of the visit. I cordially thank Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle
and Jose Cardinal S. Palma and all my Brother Bishops of Asia and their collaborators for
making my pilgrimage to the Church in these Islands such a fruitful and joyful
celebration of our faith in Jesus Christ. I thank everyone who took part in the Masses and
other events, those who organized them, those who maintained order and security, those
who have worked to broadcast and televise the events, those who in any way served the
needs of so many pilgrims. May God reward each and every one, each one of you!

With particular affection I say thank you to the young people who have been the main
actors in the Jesus is Lord Church Anniversary Celebration. How can we explain or
measure the mysterious working of divine grace in so many generous young hearts? The
Lord described the Kingdom as a seed which a man sowed, and which then produced a
rich harvest. Here, the seed had already fallen on rich soil. Many people school alumni,
parents, teachers, students, professors, catechists, Religious, priests, deacons,
monsignors, pastors have kept watch over the seed of faith and helped it grow. And
God gives the increase (cf. 1 Cor. 3:6). How far will it grow? How wide will it spread
from here through the immense human geography of Asia? This is the challenge and the
task which the people of the First Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide Anniversary
Festival and the whole Roman Catholic Church, Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle,
Sports, Legal and Politics in the Philippines have taken up and will carry into the next
Philippine presidential administration in 2016. All of this fills my heart with gratitude and
joy. I will continue to have boundless hope in the youth of the Philippines and of the
world: Christ is working through them for the new springtime of Christianity on this
continent. We see the early stages of the planting; others will rejoice in the rich harvest.

I take with me a thousand images of the Filipino people. I know your desire for greater
justice and a better life for yourselves and your children. No one can underestimate the
difficulties you face and the hard work that lies ahead. Above all, no one should pull back
from the great demand of real and effective solidarity, a new solidarity between
individuals, in families and throughout society. There has to be progress in sharing. There
has to be a renewed sense of responsibility of everyone for everyone else; we are each of
us, our brothers keeper. May God help you to follow the path you have already begun:
towards a continuing development that preserves and promotes the true values of your
Filipino culture!

My parting wish can be none other than the one I expressed for you when I came here
almost a year ago after my installation as Pope: may you always enjoy peace in your
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hearts and in your homes; may justice and freedom reign throughout your land; and may
your families be faithful forever, united in joy and love!

May God bless you all! God bless the Philippines! Mabuhay!

The Pontiff looked tired after a grueling four-day visit but climbed the stairs to the plane
unaided, holding the railing with both hands. After Papua New Guinea, he goes on to
Australia. His 11-day tour ends in Sri Lanka, where Buddhists have threatened to boycott
his visit over remarks in the deceased former Pope John Paul 2s best-selling book
Crossing the Thresher of Hope.
After farewell ceremonies at the Old Manila International Airport, the Plane enblazoned
with the exultation: Totus Tuus! takes off at around 10:00 A.M.
The flight will be commanded by Captain Johnny Andrews. The pilot-in-command is
Captain Alfredo Juliano who assisted by Captain Oliver Castro, First Officers Ruben
Matro and Servando Bocao and flight engineers Danny Hallare and Manuelito
Respaldon. Inflight service will be provided two sets of cabin crew numbering 22 led-by
pursers Angelito Tiras and John Inopea.
The rest of the crew are assistant flight purser Aurora Bautista, stewards Wesley
Calfoforo, Salvador Cacho, Joseph Torral, Rafael Torralba, Aurora Ponce-Enrile, Susan
del Carmen, Jesulta de Leon, Stella Frias, Elsie Escutin, Hermie Cagalingan, Cristina
Padilla, Lourdes Ledesma, Ysabel Costas, Evangeline Gatmaitan, Margarita Manzano,
Cynthia Rosales and Service Manager Augusto Barrios.
As reconfigured, the Aircraft is fitted with special seats, a sleeperette, and a dedicated
lavatory to suit the requirements of the Holy Father during the flight to Port Moresby,
Papua New Guinea located some 2,161 nautical miles south of Manila.
During the deceased pope John Paul 2's visit in February 1981, PAL flew the Pontiff to
several key cities in the country: including Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, Davao, Baguio and
Subic.
Meanwhile, environmentalists and community leaders around Quiapo area are calling for
an annual green celebration of the anniversary of the religious group Jesus is Lord
Church Worldwide.
Local leaders and the environmental network Ecowaste Coalition urged devotees and
visitors to couple their devotion to the Jesus Christ, our Lord, and our Savior with respect
for the environment.
The call came as participants leading to the annual anniversary celebration of the
religious group on October every year since October 1979.
Combining our peoples amazing devotion to the Jesus Christ our Lord with action
respecting, nurturing and defending Mother Earth will be a powerful force of hope and
deliverance against those who trash and ruin the environment, Tin Vergara, Zero Waste
Campaigner of the EcoWaste Coalition, said.
If the millions of devotees who come to Rizal Park and Quiapo will simply not litter and
avoid waste in all its forms, well have a feast that is pleasing to the eyes and pleasing to
the Lord, she added.
Past celebrations in 35 years have seen truckloads of garbage collected from Rizal Park to
Port Area to Ermita to Quiapo that included cigarette butts, candy and snack wrappers,
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plastic bags, cups, bottles and straws, polystyrene food containers and bamboo skewers
that often cause injuries to barefooted participants.
Traffic Re-Routing
Quirino Grandstand (Main Venue)
Head northwest on Parade Ave toward Katigbak Drive
Parade Ave turns slightly right and becomes Katigbak Drive
Continue onto Padre Burgos Street/C-1
Make a U-turn at Roxas Boulevard
Continue onto Katigbak Drive
Continue onto Parade Avenue
Continue onto South Drive
Continue onto T.M. Kalaw
Make a U-turn at Roxas Boulevard
Continue onto South Drive
Slight right onto Parade Avenue
Parade Avenue turns slightly right and becomes Katigbak Drive
Continue onto Padre Burgos Street/C-1
Make a U-turn at Maria Y. Orosa
Make a U-turn at Roxas Boulevard
Turn right onto Maria Y. Orosa
Head southeast on Maria Y. Orosa Street toward T.M. Kalaw
Turn right onto T.M. Kalaw
Make a U-turn at Jorge Bocobo
Turn left onto Maria Y. Orosa
Continue to follow Maria Y. Orosa Street
Turn right onto Finance
Turn right onto Taft Avenue
Turn right onto United Nations Avenue
Take the 1st right onto Maria Y. Orosa
Turn left onto T.M. Kalaw
Make a U-turn at Roxas Boulevard
Make a U-turn at Maria Y. Orosa
Turn right onto Roxas Boulevard
Make a U-turn at Padre Burgos St/C-1
Turn left onto United Nations Ave
Turn right onto Cortada
Turn left onto A Flores
Take the 1st left onto A. Mabini
Head northwest on A. Mabini toward United Nations Ave
Take the 1st right onto United Nations Ave
Turn left at the 2nd cross street onto Maria Y. Orosa
Turn left onto T.M. Kalaw
Take the 2nd left onto Jorge Bocobo
Head southeast on Jorge Bocobo toward United Nations Avenue
Take the 2nd right onto A Flores
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Head southwest on A Flores toward A. Mabini
Take the 1st right onto A. Mabini
Take the 1st left onto United Nations Ave
Turn right onto Alhambra
Head northwest on Alhambra toward T.M. Kalaw
Turn right onto T.M. Kalaw
Take the 1st right onto Guerrero
Head northwest on Guerrero toward T.M. Kalaw
Turn right onto T.M. Kalaw
Take the 1st right onto M.H. Del Pilar
Take the 1st left onto United Nations Ave
Take the 1st left onto Cortada
Head southeast on Cortada toward United Nations Ave
Take the 1st left onto United Nations Ave
Take the 1st left onto A. Mabini
Head northwest on A. Mabini toward T.M. Kalaw
Turn right onto T.M. Kalaw
Take the 2nd left onto Engracia C Reyes
Head northeast on Engracia C Reyes toward Maria Y. Orosa
Turn left onto Maria Y. Orosa
Head northwest on Maria Y. Orosa toward T.M. Kalaw
Turn left onto T.M. Kalaw
Head northwest on A. Mabini toward Arquiza
Take the 1st right onto Arquiza
Take the 1st left onto Grey
Turn left onto A Flores
Take the 1st right onto A. Mabini
Take the 1st right onto United Nations Ave
Take the 1st right onto Jorge Bocobo
Take the 1st right onto A Flores
Take the 1st left onto Grey
Turn left onto Arquiza
Turn right onto Jorge Bocobo
Take the 1st right onto Padre Faura
Take the 1st right onto A. Mabini
Take the 1st right onto Arquiza
Turn right onto Jorge Bocobo
Turn left onto Sta. Monica
Turn left onto Padre Faura
Take the 2nd left onto M Adriatico
Take the 1st left onto Sta. Monica
Turn left onto Padre Faura
Take the 2nd left onto M Adriatico
Take the 1st right onto Sta. Monica
Take the 1st right onto A. Mabini
Take the 1st left onto Padre Faura
Turn right at the 2nd cross street onto Guerrero
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Take the 1st right onto Arquiza
Take the 1st right onto M.H. Del Pilar
Take the 1st right onto Padre Faura
Take the 1st right onto Guerrero
Take the 2nd right toward M.H. Del Pilar
Turn right onto M.H. Del Pilar
Take the 1st left onto Arquiza
Turn right onto Jorge Bocobo
Take the 1st right onto Padre Faura
Turn left onto M.H. Del Pilar
Take the 1st right onto Sta. Monica
Take the 1st right onto Guerrero
Take the 1st left onto Padre Faura
Take the 1st left toward Sta. Monica
Take the 1st left onto Sta. Monica
Take the 1st left onto Guerrero
Turn left onto Arquiza
Take the 1st right onto Alhambra
Take the 1st right toward Guerrero
Take the 1st left onto Guerrero
Take the 2nd right onto United Nations Ave
Take the 1st right onto M.H. Del Pilar
Take the 1st left onto A Flores
Turn right onto Grey
Turn right onto Arquiza
Turn left at the 2nd cross street onto M.H. Del Pilar
Turn left at the 2nd cross street onto Sta. Monica
Take the 1st left onto A. Mabini
Turn right onto United Nations Ave
Turn right onto Taft Ave
Take the 1st right onto Padre Faura
Take the 1st right onto Maria Y. Orosa
Take the 2nd right onto United Nations Ave
Head southwest on United Nations Ave toward Taft Ave
Turn left onto Jorge Bocobo
Take the 1st left onto Engracia C Reyes
Turn left onto Maria Y. Orosa
Take the 2nd right onto United Nations Ave
Take the 2nd right onto Taft Ave Take the 1st right onto Padre Faura
Plaza Miranda (Co-Venue)
Head west on R. Hidalgo toward Villalobos
Turn left onto Gomez
Slight left onto Carlos Palanca Sr.
Take the 1st left onto Villalobos
Turn right onto R. Hidalgo
Turn right onto Quezon Boulevard
Slight right toward Carlos Palanca Sr.
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Turn left onto Carlos Palanca Sr.
Take the 1st right onto Oscariz
Oscariz turns right and becomes P. Ducos
Turn right onto Carlos Palanca Sr.
Turn left onto Muelle Dela Quinta
Muelle Dela Quinta turns slightly left and becomes trinoma
Turn right onto Arlegui
Take the 2nd right onto Duque
Take the 1st left onto Vergara
Take the 1st right onto Fraternal
Turn left onto Castillejos
Castillejos turns left and becomes Farnecio
Turn left onto Vergara
Take the 1st right onto Fraternal
Turn left onto Arlegui
Turn right at Duque
Slight right onto Dr. Concepcion C. Aguila
Take the 1st right onto Legarda
Turn right onto Arlegui
Take the 2nd left onto Fraternal
Turn right onto Castillejos
Turn left onto Duque
Make a U-turn
Take the 1st left onto Arlegui
Take the 1st left onto Gunao
Take the 1st right onto Norzagaray
Take the 1st left onto trinoma
Take the 1st left onto Globo de Oro
Turn right at Gunao
Make a U-turn
Take the 1st left onto Globo de Oro
Take the 2nd right onto A. Bautista
Take the 1st right onto Norzagaray
Take the 1st right onto trinoma
Take the 1st right onto Globo de Oro
Sharp right toward Norzagaray
Take the 1st right onto Norzagaray
Take the 2nd right onto trinoma
trinoma turns slightly right and becomes Muelle Dela Quinta
Turn right onto Carlos Palanca Sr.
Turn right onto Villalobos
Turn right onto R. Hidalgo
Turn right onto Quezon Boulevard
Continue onto Quezon Bridge
Continue onto Quezon Blvd
Continue onto Padre Burgos St
Make a U-turn at Victoria
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Keep right to stay on Padre Burgos St
Keep left to stay on Padre Burgos St
Continue onto McArthur Bridge
Turn right onto Carlos Palanca Sr.
Take the 2nd left onto Gomez
Take the 1st right onto R. Hidalgo
Turn right onto Quezon Boulevard
Continue onto Quezon Bridge
Continue onto Quezon Blvd
Continue onto Padre Burgos St
Make a U-turn at Victoria
Keep right to stay on Padre Burgos St
Keep right to stay on Padre Burgos St
Continue onto Quezon Bridge
Continue onto Quezon Blvd (Destination will be on the left)
Quiapo Church (Co-Venue)
Head southeast on Chicago toward 7th St
Take the 1st left onto 7th St
Make a U-turn
Take the 1st left onto Chicago
Take the 3rd left onto 10th St
Make a U-turn Take the 1st right onto Chicago
Take the 1st right onto 9th St
Make a U-turn
Turn right onto Muelle de San Francisco
Take the 1st right onto 8th St
Turn right onto Bonifacio Dr
Take the 1st right onto 11th St
Take the 1st left onto Railroad Dr
Turn right onto 12th St
Turn right onto Atlanta
Turn right onto 11th St
Turn right onto Bonifacio Dr
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto 13th St
Turn right onto Chicago
Chicago turns right and becomes 11th St
Turn right onto Atlanta
Take the 2nd right onto 14th St
Take the 1st left onto Antonio C. Delgado
Take the 1st left onto 15th St
Take the 1st right onto Atlanta
Take the 1st right onto 16th St
Turn right at the 2nd cross street onto Boston
Turn right onto 13th St
Take the 1st right onto Antonio C. Delgado
Take the 1st right onto 14th St
Turn right onto Muelle de San Francisco
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Take the 2nd right onto 10th St
Make a U-turn
Take the 1st right onto Chicago
Take the 2nd left onto 8th St
Turn right onto Muelle de San Francisco
Muelle de San Francisco turns right and becomes 7th St
Turn left onto Chicago
Sharp left onto Muelle De Tacoma
Turn left onto 7th St
Take the 1st left onto Chicago
Turn right onto Muelle De Tacoma
Head southwest on 25th St toward Muelle de San Francisco
25th St turns right and becomes Muelle de San Francisco
Turn right onto 16th St
Take the 3rd left onto Boston
Turn left onto 13th St
Turn left onto Muelle de San Francisco
Take the 2nd left onto 16th St
Take the 1st right onto Boston
Make a U-turn
Take the 2nd right onto 14th St
Head southwest on 14th St toward Boston
Take the 1st right onto Boston
Turn right onto 13th St
Take the 1st right onto Antonio C. Delgado
Take the 2nd right onto 16th St
Take the 1st right onto Boston
Turn right onto 13th St
Take the 1st left onto Chicago
Chicago turns right and becomes 11th St
Turn right onto Atlanta
Turn right onto 13th St
Take the 1st left onto Antonio C. Delgado
Take the 1st left onto 14th St
Take the 1st right onto Atlanta
Take the 1st right onto 15th St
Turn left onto Antonio C. Delgado
Take the 1st left onto 16th St
Take the 1st right onto Atlanta
Take the 1st right onto 17th St
Turn right onto Muelle de San Francisco
Take the 1st right onto 16th St
Take the 2nd right onto Antonio C. Delgado
Take the 1st left onto 17th St
Turn left onto Railroad Dr
Take the 2nd left onto 15th St
Take the 1st right onto Atlanta
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Take the 1st right onto 14th St
Turn left onto Railroad Dr
Turn left onto 12th St
Turn right onto Atlanta
Turn right onto 11th St
Take the 1st right onto Railroad Dr
Take the 3rd right onto 14th St
Take the 1st left onto Atlanta
Take the 2nd left onto 16th St
Take the 1st left onto Railroad Dr
Take the 1st right onto 13th St
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Bonifacio Dr
Turn right onto 16th St
Take the 2nd right onto Atlanta
Take the 3rd right onto 13th St
Head southwest on 25th St toward Muelle de San Francisco
25th St turns right and becomes Muelle de San Francisco
Turn right onto 14th St
Turn right onto Antonio C. Delgado
Take the 1st left onto 15th St
Take the 1st left onto Atlanta
Take the 1st left onto 14th St
Take the 1st left onto Antonio C. Delgado
Take the 1st right onto 16th St
Turn left onto Muelle de San Francisco
Take the 1st left onto 17th St
Turn left onto Atlanta
Take the 2nd left onto 15th St
Turn left onto Antonio C. Delgado
Take the 1st left onto 16th St
Take the 2nd left onto Railroad Dr
Take the 1st left onto 15th St
Take the 1st left onto Atlanta
Take the 2nd left onto 17th St
Turn left onto Railroad Dr
Take the 1st right onto 16th St
Turn right onto Bonifacio Dr
Take the 2nd right onto 25th St
25th St turns right and becomes Muelle de San Francisco
Turn right onto 17th St
Take the 1st right onto Antonio C. Delgado
Turn left onto 24th St
Turn right onto Railroad Dr
Turn right onto 25th St
25th St turns right and becomes Muelle de San Francisco
Turn right onto 17th St
Take the 1st right onto Antonio C. Delgado
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Turn left onto 22nd St
Turn right onto Railroad Dr
Take the 1st right onto 23rd St
Turn left onto Antonio C. Delgado
Turn left onto 25th St
Take the 1st left onto Railroad Dr
Turn left onto 19th St
Turn left onto Antonio C. Delgado
Take the 1st left onto 20th St
Take the 1st left onto Railroad Dr
Take the 2nd left onto 18th St
Turn left onto Antonio C. Delgado
Turn left onto Railroad Dr
Turn left onto 15th St
Take the 1st right onto Atlanta
Take the 1st right onto 14th St
Turn right onto Railroad Dr
Take the 1st right onto 15th St
Take the 1st right onto Atlanta
Take the 1st left onto 14th St
List of Food stalls participating:
Food Tenants of SM City North EDSA
1. Goldilocks Bakeshop (City Center, Ground Floor 101)
2. Starbucks Coffee (City Center, Ground Floor 102)
3. French Baker (City Center, Ground Floor 103)
4. Hainanese Delights (City Center, Ground Floor 104)
5. Razon's of Guagua (City Center, Ground Floor 105)
6. Classic Savory (City Center, Ground Floor 106)
7. Dunkin Donuts (City Center, Ground Floor 108)
8. Jollibee (City Center, Ground Floor 109)
9. McDonald's (City Center, Ground Floor 122)
10. Papa John's (City Center, Ground Floor 144)
11. Yakimix (City Center, Ground Floor 143)
12. Pizza Hut (City Center, Ground Floor 123)
13. Icebergs (City Center, Ground Floor 124)
14. Sbarro (City Center, Ground Floor 126)
15. Red Ribbon Bakeshop (City Center, Ground Floor 127)
16. Cinnabon (City Center, Second Floor 202)
17. Dairy Queen (City Center, Second Floor 201)
18. Crepes and Creme (City Center, Second Floor 203)
19. Dulcinea (City Center, Second Floor 204)
20. Cha Time (City Center, Second Floor 205)
21. Pizza Hut Bistro (City Center, Second Floor 206)
22. Yoshinoya (City Center, Second Floor 207)
23. Maan Haan (City Center, Second Floor 208)
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24. Chowking (City Center, Second Floor 209)
25. Shakey's Pizza Restaurant (City Center, Second Floor 210)
26. Tokyo Tokyo (City Center, Second Floor 211)
27. Max's Restaurant (City Center, Second Floor 212)
28. Racks (City Center, Second Floor 213)
29. Burger King (City Center, Second Floor 214)
30. Kenny Rogers Roasters (City Center, Second Floor 215)
31. Breadtalk (The Block, Second Floor 206)
32. Jamba Juice (The Block, Second Floor 207)
111 food tenants of SM Megamall
1. Mister Donut - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
2. Army Navy - (Mega A & B 4th Level)
3. Pepper Lunch - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
4. Chowking - (Mega A & B 2nd Level)
5. Bar B King - (Mega A & B lower ground Floor)
6. Sbarro - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
7. Jamaican Patties - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
8. Chuck's Grub - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
9. El Pollo Loco - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
10. The French Baker (3rd Floor) - (Mega A & B 3rd Level)
11. Mang Inasal - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
12. Komoro Soba - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
13. KFC (BLDG B.) - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
14. Karate Kid - (Mega A & B 2nd level)
15. Mexicali - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
16. Subway - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
17. The Sandwich Guy - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
18. Tokyo Tokyo - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
19. Wendy's - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
20. Wham! Burger - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
21. Yellow Cab - (Mega A & B 2nd level)
22. Yoshinoya - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
23. Luk Yuen - (Mega A & B lower)
24. Almon Marina - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
25. Mann Hann - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
26. Aveneto - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
27. Amici - (Mega A & B 3rd level
28. Mannang - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
29. Bubble Tea - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
30. Bacolod Chicken Inasal - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
31. Barrio Fiesta - (Mega A & B 4th level)
32. My Singapore Food Street - (Mega A & B 2nd level)
33. Chef's Quarter - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
34. C2 Classic Cuisine - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
35. Cabalen - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
36. Cajun Red Rock - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
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37. Persia Grill - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
38. Gotti's Ristorante - (Mega A & B 4th level)
39. Dulcinea - (Mega A & B 4th level)
40. Eat & Go - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
41. Eskimo Bob - (Mega A & B 4th level)
42. Giligan's Island - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
43. Pizza Hut Bistro - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
44. KKK - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
45. Jatujak - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
46. Holy Cow - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
47. Gumbo - (Mega A & B 2nd level)
48. HK Choi - (Mega A & B 2nd level)
49. Secret Recipe - (Mega A & B 2nd level)
50. Pancake House - (Mega A & B lower ground level)
51. Max's Restaurant - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
52. Kichitora - (Mega A & B 2nd level)
53. SIZZLIN PEPPER STEAK - (Mega A & B 4th level)
54. Pho Hoa - (Mega A & B upper ground level)
55. Pho Hoa - (Mega A & B lower ground level)
56. Papa John's Pizza - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
57. Racks - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
58. Savory - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
59. Shakey's - (Mega A & B lower ground level)
60. Sumo Sam - (Mega A & B lower ground level)
61. Sushiya - (Mega A & B lower ground level)
62. Teriyaki Boy - (Mega A & B 4th level)
63. Tong Yang - (Mega A & B 4th level)
64. Yabu - (Mega A & B 2nd level)
65. Mister Donut - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
66. Army Navy - (Mega A & B 4th level)
67. Pepper Lunch - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
68. Chowking - (Mega A & B 2nd level upper ground floor)
69. Bar B King - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
70. Sbarro - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
71. Jamaican Patties - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
72. Chuck's Grub - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
73. El Pollo Loco - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
74. The French Baker (3f) - (Mega A & B 3rd level
75. Mang Inasal - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
76. Komoro Soba - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
77. Karate Kid - (Mega A & B 2nd level)
78. Mexicali - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
79. Subway - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
80. The Sandwich Guy - (Mega A & B lower ground floor)
81. Tokyo Tokyo - (Mega A & B 3rd level)
82. Wendy's - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
83. Wham! Burger - (Mega A & B lower ground floor
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84. Yellow Cab - (Mega A & B 2nd floor)
85. Yoshinoya - (Mega A & B upper ground floor)
SM Food Court, SM Megamall
1. Balay Ilocos
2. Baliwag Lechon Manok, Atbp.
3. Balot Balot Republic
4. Bibingkinitan! Mini Bibingka
5. Bodhi
6. Brgy. Bagnet
7. Buko Ni Fruitas
8. Buzbox Scramble Station
9. Cafe's Coffeepoint
10. Cebu Fiesta
11. Chef Chow's Shabu Shabu Express
12. Chicken Company
13. Chin's Express
14. Cool Attack Ice Cream Corner
15. Crepe Delights
16. Davao Tuna Grill
17. Fat Ique's
18. Fireshack Shawarma
19. Flaming Hot
20. Fruit Magic
21. Goto King
22. Greenfresh
23. Greenwich
24. Healthie Fresh Fruit Shakes
25. Hen Lin
26. Hero Sausages
27. Ilonggo Grill
28. In A Nutshell
29. Inasal Joe
30. Inihaw Express
31. Jelly 'N Juice
32. Jollibee (Foodcourt)
33. Kamay Kainan
34. Kipp's Chicken
35. Kusina Ni Gracia
36. Kuya's Special Lumpiang Sariwa
37. Louies Buko
38. Lydia's Lechon
39. Manang's Chicken
40. Mango-Ong
41. Megamelt Ensaymada
42. Mr. Kimbob
43. Mr. Softy Ice Cream
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44. New Polland Baker's Fair
45. New York Fries & Dips
46. Okuya Food Express
47. Pao Tsin Specialties
48. Pinoy Toppings
49. Plato Wraps
50. President Tea House
51. Purefoods Hotdog
52. Quickly
53. R. Lapid's Chicharon
54. Razon's Of Guagua
55. Reyes Barbeque
56. Saba Republic
57. Sally's Homemade Kakanin
58. Seafood Grill
59. Siomai House
60. Sisig Hooray
61. Sizzling Plate
62. Sizzling Seafoods
63. Sweet Catch
64. Taho Boy
65. Takuyaki
66. Tapa King
67. Turk's Shawarma
68. World Chicken
69. Zagu
Country delegations
Participants and Pilgrims at JIL Anniversary Celebration represented the following
cities of the Philippines and countries of the world:
Africa
Algeria
Angola
Benin
Botswana
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cameroon
Cape Verde
Central African Republic
Chad
Comoros
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Republic of the Congo
Djibouti
Egypt
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Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Ethiopia
Gabon
The Gambia
Ghana
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Ivory Coast (Cte d'Ivoire)
Kenya
Lesotho
Liberia
Libya
Madagascar
Malawi
Mali
Mauritania
Mauritius
Morocco
Mozambique
Namibia
Niger
Nigeria
Rwanda
So Tom and Prncipe
Senegal
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Somalia
South Africa
South Sudan
Sudan
Swaziland
Tanzania
Togo
Tunisia
Uganda
Zambia
Zimbabwe
les parses
Mayotte
Runion
Pantelleria
Pelagie Islands
Madeira
Spain
Canary Islands
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Ceuta
Melilla
Places of sovereignty
o Chafarinas Islands
o Pen de Alhucemas
o Pen de Vlez de la Gomera
Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
Western Sahara
Yemen
Socotra
Americas
Antigua and Barbuda
Anguilla
Argentina
Aruba
Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Bermuda
Bolivia
Bonaire
Bonaire
Brazil
British Virgin Islands
Canada
Cayman Islands
Chile
Clipperton Island
Colombia
Costa Rica
Cuba
Curaao
Dominica
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
El Salvador
Falkland Islands
Federal Dependencies of Venezuela
French Guiana
Greenland
Grenada
Guadeloupe
Guatemala
Guyana
Haiti
Honduras
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Iceland
Jamaica
Martinique
Mexico
Montserrat
Navassa Island
Nicaragua
Nueva Esparta
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Puerto Rico
Saba
Saint Lucia
San Andrs and Providencia
Sint Eustatius
Sint Maarten
South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
St. Barthlemy
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Martin
St. Pierre and Miquelon
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Suriname
Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago
Turks and Caicos Islands
United States
United States Virgin Islands
Uruguay
Venezuela
United States
New York metropolitan area
New York City, New York
Huntington, New York
Yonkers, New York
The Bronx, New York
Brooklyn, New York
Manhattan, New York
Queens, New York
Staten Island, New York
Dutchness Country, New York
Beacon, New York
Harrison, New York
Kingston, New York
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Long Beach, New York
New Rochelle, New York
Newburgh (city), New York
Orange County, New York
Peekskill, New York
Poughkeepsie, New York
Putnam County, New York
Rockland County, New York
Rye (city), New York
Scarsdale, New York
Suffolk County, New York
Ulster County, New York
Westchester County, New York
White Plains, New York
Bridgeport, Connecticut
New Haven, Connecticut
Stamford, Connecticut
Waterbury, Connecticut
Norwalk, Connecticut
Danbury, Connecticut
Branford, Connecticut
Cheshire, Connecticut
Danbury, Connecticut
East Haven, Connecticut
Hamden, Connecticut
Wolcott, Connecticut
Winchester, Connecticut
Wilton, Connecticut
Weston, Connecticut
Ansonia, Connecticut
Brookfield, Connecticut
Bethel, Connecticut
Derby, Connecticut
Darien, Connecticut
Guilford, Connecticut
Hamden, Connecticut
Madison, Connecticut
Meriden, Connecticut
Milford, Connecticut
Monroe, Connecticut
Naugatuck, Connecticut
New Canaan, Connecticut
New Fairfield, Connecticut
Newtown, Connecticut
North Branford, Connecticut
North Haven, Connecticut
Norwalk, Connecticut
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Wallingford, Connecticut
Trumbull, Connecticut
Torrington, Connecticut
Shelton, Connecticut
Stratford, Connecticut
Wolcott, Connecticut
Southbury, Connecticut
Seymour, Connecticut
Bayonne, New Jersey
Bergen County, New Jersey
Bergenfield, New Jersey
East Orange, New Jersey
Edison, New Jersey
Elizabeth, New Jersey
Englewood, New Jersey
Essex County, New Jersey
Fair Lawn, New Jersey
Fort Lee, New Jersey
Freehold Township, New Jersey
Garfield, New Jersey
Hackensack, New Jersey
Hudson County, New Jersey
Hunterdon County, New Jersey
Jersey City, New Jersey
Marlboro Township, New Jersey
Mercer County, New Jersey
Meriden, Connecticut
Middlesex County, New Jersey
Middletown Township, New Jersey
Monmouth County, New Jersey
Morris County, New Jersey
Newark, New Jersey
Palisades Park, New Jersey
Paterson, New Jersey
Phillipsburg, New Jersey
Ridgefield Park, New Jersey
Ridgefield, New Jersey
Ridgewood, New Jersey
Rutherford, New Jersey
Saddle Brook, New Jersey
Secaucus, New Jersey
Somerset County, New Jersey
Summit, New Jersey
Sussex County, New Jersey
Tenafly, New Jersey
Union County, New Jersey
Warren County, New Jersey
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West Milford, New Jersey
West New York, New Jersey
Westwood, New Jersey
Wyckoff, New Jersey
Los Angeles Metropolitan Area
Los Angeles, California
Long Beach, California
Santa Ana, California
Anaheim, California
West Covina, California
Burbank, California
Costa Mesa, California
Downey, California
East Los Angeles, California
El Monte, California
Fullerton, California
Garden Grove, California
Glendale, California
Huntington Beach, California
Inglewood, California
Irvine, California
Norwalk, California
Orange, California
Pasadena, California
Pomona, California
Santa Clarita, California
Simi Valley, California
South Gate, California
Thousand Oaks, California
Torrance, California
Chicago Metropolitan Area
Chicago
Aurora, Illinois
Berwyn, Illinois
Calumet City, Illinois
Chicago Heights, Illinois
Crystal Lake, Illinois
DeKalb, Illinois
Des Plaines, Illinois
Elgin, Illinois
Elmhurst, Illinois
Evanston, Illinois
Gary, Indiana
Hammond, Indiana
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Joliet, Illinois
Kenosha, Wisconsin
Naperville, Illinois
North Chicago, Illinois
Park Ridge, Illinois
Portage, Indiana
St. Charles, Illinois
Valparaiso, Indiana
Waukegan, Illinois
Wheaton, Illinois
Addison, Illinois
Algonquin, Illinois
Arlington Heights, Illinois
Bartlett, Illinois
Bolingbrook, Illinois
Buffalo Grove, Illinois
Carol Stream, Illinois
Carpentersville, Illinois
Cicero, Illinois
Downers Grove, Illinois
Elk Grove Village, Illinois
Glendale Heights, Illinois
Glenview, Cook County, Illinois
Gurnee, Illinois
Hanover Park, Illinois
Hoffman Estates, Illinois
Lombard, Illinois
Mount Prospect, Illinois
Mundelein, Illinois
Northbrook, Illinois
Oak Lawn, Illinois
Oak Park, Illinois
Orland Park, Illinois
Oswego, Illinois
Palatine, Illinois
Plainfield, Illinois
Romeoville, Illinois
Schaumburg, Illinois
Skokie, Illinois
Streamwood, Illinois
Tinley Park, Illinois
Wheeling, Illinois
Woodridge, Illinois
Cook County, Illinois
DeKalb County, Illinois
DuPage County, Illinois
Grundy County, Illinois
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Kane County, Illinois
Kendall County, Illinois
Lake County, Illinois
McHenry County, Illinois
Will County, Illinois
Jasper County, Indiana
Lake County, Indiana
Merrillville, Indiana
Newton County, Indiana
Porter County, Indiana
Kenosha County, Wisconsin
BaltimoreWashington metropolitan area
Baltimore, Maryland
Frederick, Maryland
Annapolis, Maryland (Capital of Maryland)
Hagerstown, Maryland
Aberdeen Proving Ground
Aberdeen, Maryland
Accokeek, Maryland
Adamstown, Maryland
Adelphi, Maryland
Andrews AFB, Maryland
Annapolis Neck, Maryland
Antietam, Maryland
Aquasco, Maryland
Arbutus, Maryland
Arden on the Severn
Arnold, Maryland
Ashton-Sandy Spring
Aspen Hill, Maryland
Baden, Maryland
Bagtown, Maryland
Bakersville, Maryland
Ballenger Creek, Maryland
Baltimore Highlands, Maryland
Barclay, Maryland
Barnesville, Maryland
Bartonsville, Maryland
Beaver Creek, Maryland
Bel Air North, Maryland
Bel Air South, Maryland
Bel Air, Maryland
Beltsville, Maryland
Benedict, Maryland
Bensville, Maryland
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Berwyn Heights, Maryland
Bethesda, Maryland
Bethesda, Maryland
Big Pool, Maryland
Big Spring, Maryland
Bladensburg, Maryland
Boonsboro, Maryland
Bowie, Maryland
Bowleys Quarters, Maryland
Braddock Heights, Maryland
Brandywine, Maryland
Breathedsville, Maryland
Brentwood, Maryland
Brock Hall, Maryland
Brookeville, Maryland
Brooklyn Park, Maryland
Brookmont, Maryland
Broomes Island, Maryland
Brownsville, Maryland
Brunswick, Maryland
Bryans Road, Maryland
Bryantown, Maryland
Buckeystown, Maryland
Burkittsville, Maryland
Burtonsville, Maryland
Cabin John, Maryland
California, Maryland
Calvert Beach, Maryland
Calverton, Maryland
Camp Springs, Maryland
Cape Saint Claire, Maryland
Capitol Heights, Maryland
Carney, Maryland
Catonsville, Maryland
Cavetown, Maryland
Cearfoss, Maryland
Cedarville, Maryland
Centreville, Maryland
Charlotte Hall, Maryland
Charlton, Maryland
Chesapeake Beach, Maryland
Chesapeake Ranch Estates, Maryland
Chester, Maryland
Cheverly, Maryland
Chevy Chase Section Three, Maryland
Chevy Chase Section Five, Maryland
Chevy Chase View, Maryland
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Chevy Chase Village, Maryland
Chevy Chase, Maryland
Chewsville, Maryland
Chillum, Maryland
Church Hill, Maryland
Clarksburg, Maryland
Clear Spring, Maryland
Clinton, Maryland
Cloverly, Maryland
Cobb Island, Maryland
Cockeysville, Maryland
Colesville, Maryland
College Park, Maryland
Colmar Manor, Maryland
Columbia, Maryland
Coral Hills, Maryland
Cottage City, Maryland
Crofton, Maryland
Croom, Maryland
Crownsville, Maryland
Damascus, Maryland
Dargan, Maryland
Darlington, Maryland
Darnestown, Maryland
Deale, Maryland
Derwood, Maryland
District Heights, Maryland
Downsville, Maryland
Drum Point, Maryland
Dundalk, Maryland
Dunkirk, Maryland
Eagle Harbor, Maryland
Eakles Mill, Maryland
East Riverdale, Maryland
Edgemere, Maryland
Edgemont, Maryland
Edgewater, Maryland
Edgewood, Maryland
Edmonston, Maryland
Eldersburg, Maryland
Elkridge, Maryland
Ellicott City, Maryland
Emmitsburg, Maryland
Ernstville, Maryland
Essex, Maryland
Fairland, Maryland
Fairmount Heights, Maryland
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Fairplay, Maryland
Fairview, Maryland
Fairwood, Maryland
Fallston, Maryland
Ferndale, Maryland
Forest Glen, Maryland
Forest Heights, Maryland
Forestville, Maryland
Fort Meade, Maryland
Fort Ritchie, Maryland
Fort Washington, Maryland
Fountainhead-Orchard Hills, Maryland
Four Corners, Maryland
Frederick, Maryland
Friendly, Maryland
Friendship, Maryland
Friendship Heights Village
Fulton, Maryland
Funkstown, Maryland
Gaithersburg, Maryland
Galesville, Maryland
Gambrills, Maryland
Gapland, Maryland
Garrett Park, Maryland
Garretts Mill, Maryland
Garrison, Maryland
Germantown, Maryland
Glassmanor, Maryland
Glen Burnie, Maryland
Glen Echo, Maryland
Glenarden, Maryland
Glenmont, Maryland
Glenn Dale, Maryland
Golden Beach, Maryland
Grasonville, Maryland
Greenbelt, Maryland
Greensburg, Maryland
Halfway, Maryland
Hampstead, Maryland
Hampton, Maryland
Hancock, Maryland
Havre de Grace, Maryland
Herald Harbor, Maryland
Highfield-Cascade, Maryland
Highland, Maryland
Highland Beach, Maryland
Hillandale, Maryland
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182

Hillcrest Heights, Maryland
Hughesville, Maryland
Huntingtown, Maryland
Hyattsville, Maryland
Ilchester, Maryland
Indian Head, Maryland
Indian Springs, Maryland
Jarrettsville, Maryland
Jefferson, Maryland
Jessup, Maryland
Joppatowne, Maryland
Jugtown, Maryland
Keedysville, Maryland
Kemp Mill, Maryland
Kemps Mill, Maryland
Kensington, Maryland
Kent Narrows, Maryland
Kettering, Maryland
Kingstown, Maryland
Kingsville, Maryland
Konterra, Maryland
La Plata, Maryland
Lake Arbor, Maryland
Lake Shore, Maryland
Landover Hills, Maryland
Landover, Maryland
Langley Park, Maryland
Lanham, Maryland
Lansdowne, Maryland
Largo, Maryland
Laurel, Maryland
Laurel, Maryland
Layhill, Maryland
Laytonsville, Maryland
Leisure World, Maryland
Leitersburg, Maryland
Leonardtown, Maryland
Lexington Park, Maryland
Libertytown, Maryland
Linganore, Maryland
Linthicum, Maryland
Lochearn, Maryland
Long Beach, Maryland
Lusby, Maryland
Lutherville, Maryland
Manchester, Maryland
Mapleville, Maryland
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Marlboro Meadows, Maryland
Marlboro Village, Maryland
Marlow Heights, Maryland
Marlton, Maryland
Martin's Additions, Maryland
Maryland City, Maryland
Maugansville, Maryland
Mayo, Maryland
Mays Chapel, Maryland
Mechanicsville, Maryland
Melwood, Maryland
Mercersville, Maryland
Middle River, Maryland
Middleburg, Maryland
Middletown, Maryland
Milford Mill, Maryland
Mitchellville, Maryland
Monrovia, Maryland
Montgomery Village, M aryland
Morningside, Maryland
Mount Aetna, Maryland
Mount Airy, Maryland
Mount Briar, Maryland
Mount Lena, Maryland
Mount Rainier, Maryland
Myersville, Maryland
National Harbor, Maryland
Naval Academy, Maryland
New Carrollton, Maryland
New Market, Maryland
New Windsor, Maryland
North Beach, Maryland
North Bethesda, Maryland
North Brentwood, Maryland
North Chevy Chase, Maryland
North Kensington, Maryland
North Laurel, Maryland
North Potomac, Maryland
Odenton, Maryland
Olney, Maryland
Overlea, Maryland
Owings, Maryland
Owings Mills, Maryland
Oxon Hill, Maryland
Paramount-Long Meadow
Parkville, Maryland
Parole, Maryland
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Pasadena, Maryland
Pecktonville
Peppermill Village
Perry Hall, Maryland
Perryman, Maryland
Pikesville, Maryland
Pinesburg, Maryland
Piney Point, Maryland
Pleasant Hills, Maryland
Point of Rocks, Maryland
Pomfret, Maryland
Pondsville, Maryland
Poolesville, Maryland
Port Tobacco Village, Maryland
Potomac Heights, Maryland
Potomac, Maryland
Prince Frederick, Maryland
Pylesville, Maryland
Queen Anne, Prince George's County
Queen Anne, Queen Anne's County
Queenland, Maryland
Queenstown, Maryland
Randallstown, Maryland
Redland, Maryland
Reid, Maryland
Reisterstown, Maryland
Ringgold, Maryland
Riva, Maryland
Riverdale Park, Maryland
Riverside, Maryland
Riviera Beach, Maryland
Robinwood, Maryland
Rock Point, Maryland
Rockville, Maryland
Rockville, Maryland
Rohrersville
Rosaryville, Maryland
Rosedale, Maryland
Rosemont
Rossville, Maryland
Sabillasville, Maryland
Saint James, Maryland
Saint Leonard, Maryland
San Mar, Maryland
Sandy Hook, Maryland
Savage, Maryland
Scaggsville, Maryland
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Seabrook, Maryland
Seat Pleasant, Maryland
Severn, Maryland
Severna Park, Maryland
Shady Side, Maryland
Sharpsburg, Maryland
Silver Hill, Maryland
Silver Spring, Maryland
Smithsburg, Maryland
Solomons, Maryland
Somerset, Maryland
South Kensington, Maryland
South Laurel, Maryland
Spencerville, Maryland
Spring Ridge, Maryland
Springdale, Maryland
St. George Island, Maryland
Stevensville, Maryland
Sudlersville, Maryland
Suitland, Maryland
Summerfield, Maryland
Sykesville, Maryland
Takoma Park, Maryland
Tall Timbers, Maryland
Taneytown, Maryland
Temple Hills, Maryland
Templeville, Maryland
Thurmont, Maryland
Tilghmanton, Maryland
Timonium, Maryland
Towson, Maryland
Towson, Maryland
Travilah, Maryland
Trego-Rohrersville Station
Union Bridge, Maryland
University Park, Maryland
Upper Marlboro, Maryland
Urbana, Maryland
Waldorf, Maryland
Walker Mill, Maryland
Walkersville, Maryland
Washington Grove, Maryland
Washington, District of Columbia
West Laurel, Maryland
Westminster, Maryland
Westphalia, Maryland
Wheaton, Maryland
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White Marsh, Maryland
White Oak, Maryland
Williamsport, Maryland
Wilson-Conococheague, Maryland
Woodlawn, Baltimore County, Maryland
Woodlawn, Prince George's County, Maryland
Woodmore, Maryland
Woodsboro, Maryland
Yarrowsburg, Maryland
Alexandria, Virginia
Annandale, Virginia
Aquia Harbour, Virginia
Arcola, Virginia
Ashburn, Virginia
Bailey's Crossroads, Virginia
Bealeton, Virginia
Belle Haven, Virginia
Belmont, Virginia
Berryville, Virginia
Boswell's Corner, Virginia
Boyce, Virginia
Brambleton, Virginia
Broadlands, Virginia
Buckhall, Virginia
Bull Run Mountain Estates, Virginia
Bull Run, Virginia
Burke Centre, Virginia
Burke, Virginia
Calverton, Virginia
Cascades, Virginia
Catlett, Virginia
Centreville, Virginia
Chantilly, Virginia
Cherry Hill, Virginia
Clifton, Virginia
Countryside, Virginia
County Center, Virginia
Crosspointe, Virginia
Culpeper, Virginia
Dahlgren, Virginia
Dale City, Virginia
Dranesville, Virginia
Dulles Town Center, Virginia (major airport: Washington Dulles International
Airport)
Dumfries, Virginia
Dunn Loring, Virginia
Fair Lakes, Virginia
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Fair Oaks, Fairfax County, Virginia
Fairfax Station, Virginia
Fairfax, Virginia
Fairview Beach, Virginia
Falls Church, Virginia
Falmouth, Virginia
Floris, Virginia
Fort Belvoir, Virginia
Fort Hunt, Virginia
Franconia, Virginia
Franklin Farm, Virginia
Fredericksburg (acts as a central city)
Front Royal, Virginia
Gainesville, Virginia
George Mason, Virginia
Great Falls, Virginia
Greenbriar, Virginia
Groveton, Virginia
Hamilton, Virginia
Hayfield, Virginia
Haymarket, Virginia
Herndon, Virginia
Hillsboro, Virginia
Huntington , Virginia
Hybla Valley, Virginia
Idylwood, Virginia
Independent Hill, Virginia
King George, Virginia
Kings Park West, Virginia
Kings Park, Virginia
Kingstowne, Virginia
Lake Barcroft, Virginia
Lake Ridge, Virginia
Lansdowne, Virginia
Laurel Hill, Virginia
Leesburg, Virginia
Lincolnia, Virginia
Linton Hall, Virginia
Loch Lomond, Virginia
Long Branch, Virginia
Lorton, Virginia
Loudoun Valley Estates, Virginia
Lovettsville, Virginia
Lowes Island, Virginia
Manassas, Virginia
Manassas Park, Virginia
Mantua, Virginia
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Marshall, Virginia
Marumsco
Mason Neck, Virginia
McLean, Virginia
McNair, Virginia
Merrifield, Virginia
Middleburg, Virginia
Midland, Virginia
Montclair, Virginia
Moorefield Station, Virginia
Mount Vernon, Virginia
Neabsco, Virginia
New Baltimore, Virginia
Newington, Virginia
Newington Forest, Virginia
Nokesville, Virginia
North Springfield, Virginia
Oak Grove, Virginia
Oakton, Virginia
Occoquan, Virginia
Opal, Virginia
Pimmit Hills, Virginia
Potomac Mills, Virginia
Purcellville, Virginia
Quantico, Virginia
Quantico Base, Virginia
Ravensworth, Virginia
Remington, Virginia
Reston, Virginia
Rose Hill, Virginia
Round Hill, Virginia
Seven Corners, Virginia
Shenandoah Retreat, Virginia
South Riding, Virginia
South Run, Virginia
Southern Gateway, Virginia
Spotsylvania Courthouse, Virginia
Springfield, Virginia
Stafford Courthouse, Virginia
Sterling, Virginia
Stone Ridge, Virginia
Sudley, Virginia
Sugarland Run, Virginia
The Plains, Virginia
Triangle, Virginia
Tysons Corner, Virginia
University Center, Virginia
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Vienna, Virginia
Wakefield, Fairfax County
Warrenton, Virginia
West Falls Church, Virginia
West Springfield, Virginia
Wolf Trap, Virginia
Woodburn, Virginia
Woodlawn, Fairfax County, Virginia
Yorkshire, Virginia
Asia
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Mongolia
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Vigan and Ilocos Sur
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Bangued and Abra
Batac City
Candon City
Parts of La Union:
o San Gabriel
o Santol
o Sudipen
o Bangar
Parts of Cagayan:
o Santa Praxedes
o Claveria
o Calayan
o Sanchez-Mira
o Pamplona
Santiago City and Isabela
Tuguegarao City and Cagayan
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Parts of Benguet:
o Itogon
o Kabayan
o Bokod
Parts of Mountain Province:
o Barlig
o Natonin
o Paracelis
Parts of Ifugao:
o Tinoc
o Asipulo
o Lamut
o Lagawe
o Mayoyao
o Aguinaldo
o Alfonso Lista
Parts of Kalinga:
o Pinukpuk
o Rizal
Parts of Apayao:
o Santa Marcela
o Pudtol
o Conner
Parts of Nueva Ecija
o Carranglan
o Llanera
o Lupao
o Muoz City
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o Pantabangan
o Rizal
o San Jose City
o Talugtug
San Fernando City and La Union
Baguio City and Benguet
Banaue and Ifugao
Sagada and Mountain Province
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Northern Parts of Ilocos Sur:
o Tagudin
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o Gregorio del Pilar
o San Emilio
Parts of Pangasinan:
o San Fabian
o Sison
o San Manuel
o San Nicolas
Dagupan City and Pangasinan
Tarlac City and Tarlac
Cabanatuan City and Nueva Ecija
Olongapo City and Zambales
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San Fernando City and Pampanga
Balanga City and Bataan
Malolos City and Bulacan
Batangas City and Batangas
Tagaytay City and Cavite
San Pablo and Laguna
Jalajala and Rizal
Lucena City and Quezon
Boac and Marinduque
San Jose and Occidental Mindoro
Calapan City and Oriental Mindoro
Odiongan and Romblon
Puerto Princesa City and Palawan
Kalayaan Group of Islands
Naga City and Camarines Sur
Daet and Camarines Norte
Virac and Catanduanes
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Legazpi City and Albay
Sorsogon City and Sorsogon
Masbate City and Masbate
Kalibo and Aklan
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Roxas City and Capiz
Iloilo City and Iloilo Province
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South Cotabato
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Sarangani
Cotabato City and Maguindanao
North Cotabato
Lanao del Sur
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Bukidnon
Basilan
Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental
Ozamiz City and Misamis Occidental
Iligan City and Lanao del Norte
Marawi City and Lanao del Sur
Malaybalay City and Bukidnon
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Europe
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land Islands
Andorra
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Belarus
Belgium
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Bulgaria
Croatia
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Czech Republic
Denmark
England
Estonia
Faroe Islands
Finland
France
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Georgia
Germany
Gibraltar
Greece
Guernsey
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Isle of Man
Italy
Jersey
Kosovo
Latvia
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Russia
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Slovakia
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South Ossetia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Transnistria
Ukraine
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Wales
Oceania
Australia
American Samoa
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Baker Island Guam
Federated States of Micronesia
Fiji
French Polynesia
Futuna
Guam
Howland Island
Jarvis Island
Johnston Atoll
Kingman Reef
Kiribati
Marshall Islands
Midway Atoll
Nauru
New Zealand
Northern Mariana Islands
Palau
Papua New Guinea
Pitcairn Islands
Samoa
Solomon Islands
Timor-Leste
Tokelau
Tonga
Tuvalu
Vanuatu
Wake Island
Wallis
Who went where: Politics make strange bedfellows (By Cathy C. Yamsuan and
Leah Gatdula)
Manila, Philippines, October 27, 2014 (INQUIRER) - JEJOMAR Binay, who was
made by the Edsa People Power Revolt, was not in the Ayala rally of his political
patron, Cory Aquino. Now the Vice-President of the Republic of the Philippines
after three terms as Makati mayor: first from June 30, 1989 to June 30, 1998 and
from June 30, 2001 to June 30, 2010, Binay was on the other side of town with,
well, the other side.
Same thing with a former Coryista, Laguna Gov. Jose Joey Lina, who found
himself socializing with Marcos son-in-law Gregorio Greggy Araneta as they
lunched at the VIP lounge of the Quirino grandstand hosted by Brother Mariano
Mike Velarde, Founder and Servant-Leader of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners
Foundation International and Bishop Brother Eduardo Eddie Villanueva,
Founder, International President and Spiritual Director of Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide for the pastoral and state visit of Pope Francis here in the Philippines.
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Two seats to their left was Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile, one of the leaders of the
peaceful February 1986 coup that toppled the dictator Ferdinand Marcos. Enrile
will soon join the Presidents Liberal Party.
Facing Enrile across the table were opposition Sen. Loren Legarda and husband,
former Batangas Gov. Antonio Tony Leviste of Lakas-NUCD.
Her mother's daughter
But Presidents sister Kris Aquino stuck to her mother from whom she had been
estranged because of her liaison with actor Phillip Salvador.
Ill take her anytime over Jinggoy, said a newspaper editor.
The only big-name star in the rally, Kris emceed the Makati prayer rally led by
Former President Fidel V. Ramos and Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal G.
Tagle.
Kahit wala hong lechon dito at kahit ako lang ang artista dito, masaya ako
dahil nandito tayong lahat (Even without roasted pig and movie stars), Kris told
an enthusiastic crowd at the corner of Ayala Avenue and Paseo de Roxas.
Most show biz stars were in Luneta to support their former colleague, Former
president and now Manila City mayor Joseph Estrada and incumbent president
Benigno Aquino III.
But Kris could count on colleagues like singer-comedienne Cynthia Patag who
sang Magkaisa and ''Bayan Ko,'' folk singer Coritha who did her original hit,
Oras Na, and Edsa veterans Jim Paredes, Leah Navarro, Mitch Valdez, June
Keithley and Maan Hontiveros.
Old magic
Kris tried to work the old magic she cast when campaigning for her mother
during the snap elections in 1986.
When some ralliers raised a placard which said: ''El Shaddai rejects Cha-cha,'' Kris
remarked: Hindi po pala lahat ng El Shaddai nasa Luneta (Not all El Shaddai are
at the Luneta).
When the media delegation, including the INQUIRER'S founding chair Eugenia
Duran Apostol, was called onstage, the sound system conked out. But Kris quickly
salvaged the moment.
Not media suppression
''Hindi po media suppression ito, this is just a technical problem,'' she said.
Kris showed humor when she introduced the Spice Boys of Congress.
Ang suwerte-suwerte ho ni Vina Morales dahil magandang lalake ho ang
boyfriend niya, she said of Bukidnon Rep. Miguel Zubiri. (How lucky actress Vina
Morales, her boyfriend is good-looking.)
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Naka-soiree ko ho ito noong high school, pero hindi niya ako niligawan (I had a
soiree with him but he did not court me), she said of Agusan del Sur Rep. Ace
Barbers.
I give her an A for dedication and courage,'' said a university professor.
''She showed she has genuine concern,'' commented another Makati employee.
Kris set aside whatever personal differences she had with her brother, Philippine
President Noynoy Aquino, when she warmly introduced onstage. Noynoy
frowned on Kris' relationship with Salvador.
Kris' appearance also dimmed any chances of reconciliation with Salvador, her
former live-in partner with whom she has a 18-year-old love child, Joshua.
Salvador is an avowed supporter of former President Joseph Estrada.
Not political
At the Luneta, no one offered political reasons for feasting with Velarde and
Villanueva. They all claimed being invited by the founder, international president
and spiritual director of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide, Bishop Bro. Eddie
Villanueva just to celebrate his 81st birthday and Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide
celebrated its 36
th
founding anniversary.
This doesn't mean I am pro-(Charter change), Legarda immediately explained
when asked about her presence at the Luneta. ''Brother Mike Velarde and I have
been friends since I was still with (The Inside Story),'' she added.
Enrile was more straightforward. I came here to enjoy the lechon, pancit and
the soup. Besides, you have always known my position on Charter change. I
have always pointed out the flaws of the Constitution and even campaigned
against its ratification in 1987.
Enrile said he did not feel awkward sitting near Araneta, given the senator's key
role in the Marcoses' ouster. I can sit with anybody because I consider myself a
social being,'' he said.
Metrobank president Tony Abacan was seated next to Velarde and Villanueva.
Two tables away were former Negros and now Philippine National Bank director,
Rep. Miguel Mike Romero, retired Philippine Supreme Court Chief Justices
Hilario Davide, Jr., Artemio Panganiban and Reynato Puno, Fernando Zobel de
Ayala, Bea Zobel, Ayala Land, Inc. president Antonino Tony" Aquino, Rowena
Tomeldan, AC Legarda, Mark Sablan, Joseph Reyes, Maricris Bernardino, Pivi
Diaz, Rina Rejanit, Bobby Dy, Manuel V. Pangilinan, Tessie Sy-Coson, Tony Tan-
Caktiong, Ramon Ang, Alfred Ty, Arthur Ty, Sari Yap, Lance Gokongwei, Robina
Gokongwei-Pe, Liza Gokongwei-Cheng, Isha Andaya-Valles, Myrza Sison, Jo-ann
Maglipon, ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation Chairman Eugenio Gabby
Lopez III, ABS-CBN Corporation President and Chief Content Officer Charo
Santos-Concio, Star Cinema ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc. managing director
Malou Santos, Broadcast Head and Channel 2 Head Cory Valenzuela-Vidanes,
television business unit head Laurenti Dyogi, business unit head for comedy
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Linggit Tan-Marasigan, ABS-CBN Publishing, Inc. General Manager Ernie Lopez,
Dreamscape Entertainment Television President Deo Endrinal, Roxy Liquigan,
Riley Santiago, Robert Labayen, Mark Yambot, August Benitez, Nandy Villar, Rico
Camus, Raymond Miranda, Mark Lopez, Maricel Arenas, Happy Mabulay,
Darwin Cerrado, Aldrin Cerrado, Dino Laurena, March Ventosa, Chris Lopez,
Carlo Katigbak, Leo Katigbak, Paolo Pineda, Bong Osorio, Monchet Olives, Karen
Coloma, former ABS-CBN presidents Cito Alejandro and Freddie Garcia, movie
and television directors Johnny Manahan, Arnel Natividad, Toto Natividad, Malu
Sevilla, Rechie del Carmen, Jojo Saguin, Jerry Lopez-Sineneng, Tots Mariscal, Erik
Salud, Ruel Bayani, Ruel Naval, Jerome Pobocan, and Don Cuaresma, 4, 000
Lopez kin from all over the world, ABS-CBN Manila Radio and Sports Division head
Peter Musngi, ABS-CBN Integrated News and Current Affairs Chief Ging Reyes
and Choose Philippines head Charie Villa, television director Bobbet and son
Kobi Vidanes, the members of the Daza, Valenzuela and Vidanes families,
Andrew Tan, Beth Lee, Fe Agudo, Washington Sycip, Felipe Gozon, Menardo
Jimenez, Sr., Jimmy Duavit, Annette Gozon-Abrogar, Lito Abrogar, Lilybeth G.
Rasonable, Regie C. Bautista, Marivin T. Arayata, Jose Mari R. Abacan, Gigi
Santiago-Lara, Darling P. De Jesus, Cheryl Ching-Sy, Teresa L. Pacis, Bang U.
Arespacochaga, Ali Nokom-Dedicatoria, Kenneth Yang, Sanjiv Vohra, Lily Yu-
Monterverde, Wilson Tieng, Philippine Daily Inquirer board chairman Marixi
Rufino-Prieto, Philippine Daily Inquirer president Alexandra Prieto-Romualdez,
Philippine Daily Inquirer editor-in-chief Letty Jimenez-Magsanoc, United States
Embassy spokesperson Rebecca Thompson, as well guests were media agencies
and advocacy partners, 600 participants of the World Economic Forum on East
Asia Summit 2014 from more than 30 countries, bag designer Sylvia Santos,
fashion designers JC Buendia, Randy Ortiz, Jojie Lloren, Dong Omaga Diaz, Joey
Samson, Ivarluski Aseron, Vittorio Barba, Gerry Katigbak, Frederick Peralta, Rajo
Laurel, Len Nepomuceno, Hindy Weber-Tantoco, Ramon Esteban, PJ Aranador,
Edwin Ao, OJ Hofer, Arcy Gayatin, Tippi Ocampo, Avel Bacudio, Jerome Salaya
Ang, Joel Escober, Anthony Nocom, Albert Andrada, Noel Crisostomo, Ronaldo
Arnaldo, Kristel Yulo, Happy Andrada, Pablo Cabahug and James Reyes, FDAP
designers Johnny Abad, Ricky Abad, Dexter Alaza, Nino Angeles, Delby Bragais,
Karen Castro, Kirby Cruz, Ivan dela Cruz, Perry Diaz, Lynn Roxas, Boyet Dysanco,
Ricco Escaro, Rocky Gathercole, Genar Gozum, Pristine de Guzman, Adin Lara,
Paul Ranier Lim, Noelle Llave, Edgar Madamba, Jontie Martinez, Nikkie Martinez,
Ole Morabe, Vivo Nazareth, Dave Ocampo, Lito Perez, Nholie Pilapil, Joyce
Pilarsky, Aan Pineda, Raoul Ramirez, Yako Reyes, Rholand Roxas, Edgar San
Diego, Fanny Serrano, Edwin Uy, Simon Ariel Vasquez, Geoffrey Zordilla,
independent fashion designers Jun Escario, Michelle Sison, Patrice Ramos Diaz,
Charina Sarte, Cary Santiago, Dennis Lustico, John Paras, Bea Albert, Eric de los
Santos, Maureen Desini, Vania Romoff, Martin Bautista, John/Paul Herrera,
Ronald Mendoza, Audie Espino, Sidney Perez Sio, Goullee Gorospe and Raoul
Ramirez, countrys design icons Inno Sotto, Auggie Cordero, Pepito Albert, Cesar
Gaupo, Lulu Tan-Gan, Mike de la Rosa and Loretto, Efren Ocampo and The
Dean of Filipino Fashion Designers Ben Farrales, Atty. Esperidion Laxa, Tony Ferrer,
Lawrence Tan, Atty. Joji Villanueva-Alonso, former Ilocos Rep. Roque
RoquitoAblan, McCann Erickson Client Service Director Bernadette
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Chincuanco, Coca-Cola Philippines Marketing Director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe
& IMC Director Yasmin Mallari, Mariko Jacinto, Aye Nuguid, Leah Puyat, Anton
Barretto and Jack de Mesa, Coca-Cola ASEAN Business Unit President Manuel
Arroyo, Coca-Cola Philippines President & General Manager Guillermo Aponte,
marketing director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe and Franchise and Commercial
Leadership Director Peter Schaelstraete together with the Coca-Cola Philippines
team: Johanna Hife, Steve Little, Rogie Delena, Raymond Villaflor, Teejae Sonza,
Jobert Dumlao, Sharon Tanganco, Roki Ferrer, Rachel Cruz, Francis Chua, Franz
Decloedt, Yasmin Mallari, Jenny Cinco, Jing Atienza, Criselda Pascual, Mavel
Banocnoc, Thess Acuna, Franco Jorge, Stephanie Castillo, Tish Condeno,
Jaideep Kibe, Nicamae Baylen, Jenalyn Perez, Barry del Rosario, and Nikki Lee,
Suyen Corporation's Nene and Virgilio Lim, Bryan Lim and Suyen Lim, Carlos
Chan's children Carlson, Archie, Rinby, Larry, Oszen and Shera, Suyen
Corporation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ben Chan, stylist Noel
Manapat, public relations practitioner, events orgainzer and Enchong Dee and
Joseph Marcos manager Keren Pascual, Korina Sanchezs manager Girlie Rodis
and Star Magic handler Monch Novales, actor-models Victor Basa and Victor
Aliwalas, TAPE, Inc. president and chief executive officer Antonio P. Tuviera,
Malou Choa-Fagar, TAPE, Inc. chairman-emeritus Romeo P. Jalosjos, TV5
President-Emeritus and The Philippine STAR Chairman Atty. Ray C. Espinosa, TV5
President and CEO Noel Lorenzana, Ariel Fermin, Gary Dujali, News5 head Luchi
Cruz-Valdes and Sports5 head and Gilas Pilipinas Basketball Coach Chot Reyes.
300 Kapamilya stars, Iya Villania and Drew Arellano, Bianca Manalo, Sitti Navarro,
Jasmine Curtis Smith, James Blanco, Eric Tai, K Brosas, Claudine Barretto and
Raymart Santiago, Randy Santiago, Bamboo Manalac, Binibining Pilipinas 2013
winners Cindy Miranda and Pia Romero, Miss International 2013 Bea Rose
Santiago, Miss Universe 2013 3rd Runner-Up Ariella Arida, Katherine de Castro-
Cruz, Oyo Boy Sotto, Rowell Santiago, Dominique Cojuangco, Dina Bonnevie
with husband Ilocos Sur Vice-Governor Deogracias Victor Savellano, Jericho
Rosales, apl.de.ap, Eddie Garcia and Richard Gomez, Former Professional
Models Association of the Philippines board members and fashion luminaries Tina
Maristela Ocampo, Izza Gonzales-Agana, Desiree Verdadero-Abesamis, Marina
Benipayo, Patty Betita, Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, Den Abesamis, Hans
Montenegro, Grace Molina and Ariel Atendido, Robert Mananquil, models
Robby Mananquil, and Raya Mananquil-de Leon, and Rissa Mananquil-Trillo with
Valerie de los Santos; Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles team manager
Paolo Trillo; Current Professional Models Association of the Philippines president
Phoemela Baranda also came with Manilas favourite models Grace Tagle,
Bubbles Paraiso, Luke Jickain, Mia Ayesa, Sanya Smith, Mika Lagdameo-
Martinez, Antoinette Enciso-Ocampo, Angel Agustin-Co and Marilen Faustino-
Montenegro The Philippine STAR columnists RJ Ledesma, Stephanie Zubiri-Crespi,
and Tim Yap, The Philippine STAR Lifestyle section editor Millet Martinez-
Mananquil, Philippine Daily INQUIRER Lifestyle section editor Thelma Sioson-San
Juan, Meralco Bolts coach Norman Black, Ateneo mens basketball coach Bo
Perasol and his players Kiefer Ravena, Thirdy Ravena, Von Pessumal, Ponso
Gotladera, Kris Porter, Anton Asistio, Isaac Jules Lim, Chris Newsome and Nico
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Elorde, former players Doug Kramer, JC Intal, Macky Escalona, Gec Chia, Paolo
Bugia, Nico Salva, Bacon Austria, Ryan Buenafe, Justin Chua, Tonino Gonzaga,
Emman Monfort, Juami Tiongson, Frank Golla, Oping Sumalinog, JP Erram, Jason
Escueta, Eric Salamat, Noy Baclao, Rabeh Al-Hussani and Jai Reyes, Sen. Bong
Revilla Jr., William Lao, Mother Lily Monterverde, Shirley Kuan, Deedee Sytangco,
Sec. Sonny Coloma, Beth Tagle, Rep. Dax and Midy Cua, Dolly Anne Carvajal-
Mendoza, Lily Layug, Arthur Manuntag, Christine Singson, Grace Singson, Tess
Daza, Jackie Aquino-Gavino, Joy Melendrez, Tonypet Albano, Maricar Bhel,
Representatives Uliran Joaquin, Hermilando Mandanas, Annie Susano and Butch
Dumpit, Vanessa Francisco, Annabelle Rama-Gutierrez, Boots Anson-Roa, Snow
Tago, Charmaine Yu, Greg Yu, Edmund Lim and Ramon Jacinto, OPM
Commissioner Ogie Alcasid, Jake Cuenca, Coco Martin, model and television
host Bianca Gonzales and Jim Paredes, economist and former NEDA secretary
general Solita Collas-Monsod, actor Robin Padilla with his wife Mariel Rodriguez
and brother Rommel, noontime game and variety television show host Willie
Revillame, 1969 Miss Universe Gloria Diaz, Father and son Pen and Ping Medina,
Celebrity cousins Isabelle Daza and Georgina Wilson, JC Tiuseco, Gelli de Belen,
Vicki Belo, Gretchen Ho, John Lapus, singer Kean Cipriano, Comedienne Candy
Pangilinan, with friends Arnell Ignacio, film and television directors Jose Javier
Reyes and Manny Castaeda, Ramon Bautista, TV host Raymond Gutierrez, Mae
Paner, Pinky Amador, Leo Valdez, Noel Trinidad and Jun Urbano, Judy Ann
Santos and Ryan Agoncillo, Maricel Soriano, Ruffa Gutierrez, Rustom Padilla,
German Moreno and Gardo Verzosa, 1986 EDSA veterans Leah Navarro, Mitch
Valdez, and Maan Hontiveros, Megastar Sharon Cuneta and Kiko Pangilinan, Kris
Aquino, Charlene Gonzalez, Christopher de Leon and Sandy Andolong, Rez
Cortez, William Martinez and Yayo Aguila, Lani Mercado-Revilla, Lorna Tolentino-
Fernandez, Tirso Cruz III and wife Lyn and son Bodie, Eric Quizon, G. Toengi and
Romnick Sarmenta, Kuh Ledesma, Grace Nono, Louie Heredia and Dingdong
Avanzado, Philip Salvador, Smokey Manaloto, Beth Tamayo, Antoniette Taus and
basketball stars, Sunshine Cruz, Gladys Reyes-Roxas, Daisy Reyes, Rufa Mae
Quinto, Isabel Granada, and Candy Pangilinan, Bro. Eddie Villanueva
presidential campaign supporters Coney Reyes, Karla Martinez, Piolo Pascual,
Dolphy Quizon, Jr., Donita Rose, Nonoy Zuniga and Prof. Jeremias Jangad,
Hawak-Kamay cast members Inigo Pascual and JM de Guzman, PBA player
James Yap and sons Joshua and Bimby Aquino-Yap, Marc Pingris and wife
Danica Sotto, Fastbreak 2 charity game basketball players Gerald Anderson,
Anne Curtis, Daniel Padilla, Jessy Mendiola, Jose Manalo, Marco Alcaraz, Derek
Ramsay, Luis Alandy, Xian Lim, Arthur Solinap, Carl Guevara, Jhong Hilario,
Vhong Navarro, Billy Crawford, Chris Tiu, Young JV, Ervic Vijandre, Arjo Atayde,
Joe Vargas, Jon Hall and Jay Salas, Gilas cadet player Matthew Ganuelas, and
Kevin Louie Alas, NBA 3x3 Philippines celebrity players Fabio Ide, Rovilson
Fernandez, Will Devaughn, Robin da Roza and Joross Gamboa, running coach
Rio de la Cruz, basketball coaches Vince Hizon and Allan Gregorio, Perlas
Pilipinas womens national basketball player Melissa Jacob, BENCH/ family stars
and 6200: The Mission Possible Project personalities Kim Chiu, Karylle, Jeric and
Jeron Teng, Enchong Dee, Joseph Marco, Lovi Poe, singer Rachelle Ann Go and
Markki Stroem, Mr. Chinatown 2013 winners Sydney Du, Sky Yang, Jerome Tan
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and Randy See; Mr. Chinatown 2014 winners David Licuaco and Kurt Joshua
Ong, Mark Lopez, Jairus Ferrer, Alec Robes, Be BENCH/ The Model Search
finalist Ron Morales; Carlos Concepcion; Yeng Constantino; Pinoy Dream
Academy Season 2 scholar Hansen Nichols with his twin brother GC, BENCH/
Rajo Laurel Dos collection models Sam Concepcion, Rocco Nacino, Steven
Silva, Enzo Pineda, Sarah Lahbati and Regine Angeles, America's Next Top
Models Dominique Reighard and Allison Harvard, models-turned-actors David
Chua, Miko Raval and Raphael Robes, Luisito Rabat, GMA Network Artist Center
talents Gloria Romero-Gutierrez, Pilita Corrales, Aljur Abrenica, Louise delos
Reyes, Mark Herras, Yasmien Kurdi, LJ Reyes, Julie Anne San Jose, Kristoffer Martin,
Derrick Monasterio, Barbie Forteza, Bela Padilla, Bea Binene, Max Collins, Rafael
Rosell, Glaiza de Castro, Rochelle Pangilinan, Mona Louise Rey, Jonalyn Viray,
Kyla Calumpad-Alvarez, Jay-R Silliona, Mark Bautista, Chef Boy Logro, Manilyn
Reynes, Angelu de Leon, Mark Anthony Fernandez, Gabby Eigenmann,
Raymond Bagatsing, Ricky Davao, Anjo Yllana and Wally Bayola, GMA News
and Public Affairs personalities Arnold Clavio, Sandra Aguinaldo, Raffy Tima,
Mariz Umali, Oscar Oida, Mark Salazar, Jun Veneracion, Chino Gaston and
Nathaniel Cruz, Media personalities Atty. Dong Puno, Chiqui Roa-Puno, Jeanne
Young, Cory Quirino, Mel Tiangco and Jay Sonza, Mons Romulo, Tonyboy
Cojuangco and Gretchen Barretto, Cesar Montano, Korina Sanchez, Karen
Davila (with her sons David and Lucas), Miguel Pastor, Joy Ortega, Edu Manzano,
Robi Domingo, Peping Cojuangco daughters Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski, China
Cojuangco-Gonzalez (and her adorable baby Lucia), Mai-Mai Cojuangco,
composer Ryan Cayabyab and his wife Emmy, Rowell Santiago, Celeste
Legaspi, JM Rodriguez, Arnold Vegafria and Cris Villonco, entertainment news
reporters Mario Dumaual and Gretchen Fullido, Gary Valenciano, Dawn Zulueta-
Lagdameo, Albert Martinez, Mylene Dizon, Iza Calzado, Marco Sison, Ivy Violan,
Regine Velasquez, Vina Morales, Shaina Magdayao, Jerome Florentino, Erik
Santos, Ogie Diaz, Gary Valencianos wife Angeli Pangilinan-Valenciano,
Angeline Quinto, Arron Villaflor, Christian Bautista, Basil Valdez, Sam Milby, Gina
Godinez, musical director and arranger Homer Flores, music composer Louie
Ocampo and wife Jojo, socialites Baby Araneta Fores, Lisa Araneta, Cacho
Marcos, Linda Oledan, Veana Fores, Lorrie Reynoso, Vicky Zubiri, Maricris Zobel,
Carol Garcia, Maripi Muscat and Margarita Fores, Anton Mendoza, Monch Cruz,
Chut Cuerva, Marcel Crespo, Ipe Cruz of Rogue Magazine, Marco Lobregat,
Ching Cruz, Tina Cuevas, Agnes Huibonhoa, Fe Rodriguez, Susan Joven, Ian
Giron, Andres Vasquez Prada and Al Tengco, Doris Magsaysay Ho, Gina Lopez,
Evelyn Forbes, Marc Nelson, Ricco and Tina Maristela-Ocampo, Rikki and Beng
Dee, Philip and Tricia Cu-Unjieng, Sander Tantoco, Philippine National Red Cross
Chairman Richard Gordon, Renna Hechanova Angeles, Karen Santos, Bobby
and Chingbee Cuenca, Gina Aboitiz, Baby Girl Fricke, Gina Godinez, Maurice
Arcache and ace photographer Alex Van Hagen, Jojie Dingcong, Jean
Goulbourn, Frances Lim and Paul Campos, Dennis and Tessa Prieto-Valdes,
Ernest Escaler, Ces Orena-Drilon, Dyan Castillejo-Garcia, Jackie Castillejo-
Guingona, Eric Quizon, Liza Ilarde, Ana Kalaw, Anton San Diego, Raul
Teehankee, Pepper Teehankee, McCann Erickson Client Service Director
Bernadette Chincuanco, Coca-Cola Philippines Marketing Director Anubha
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Sahasrabuddhe & IMC Director Yasmin Mallari, Mariko Jacinto, Aye Nuguid, Leah
Puyat, Anton Barretto and Jack de Mesa, Renna Angeles, Baby Fricke, Karen
Santos, Bing-Bing Quiros, Gina Aboitiz, Nick and Lucille Locsin, Paul Campos, Tony
and Chingbee Cuenca, Manny Miana, J. Anton Mendoza, Budji Layug, Royal
Pineda, Ed Calma, Milo Naval, Tony Gonzales, Tes Pasola, Kenneth Cobonpue,
Ana Rocha, Bart Guingona, Jinggoy Buensuceso, Jaime Chua, beauty queens Venus
Raj and Shamcey Supsup, and actors Dingdong Dantes, Diether Ocampo, John Estrada,
Rayver Cruz, Jon Avila, Daniel Matsunaga, Bea Alonzo, Rhap Salazar, Agot Isidro,
Liezel Martinez, Rachel Alejandro and Joanna Ampil, volleyball players Dzi
Gervacio, Jem Ferrer, Fille Saint Merced Cainglet-Cayetano, A Nacachi, Rachel
Anne Daquis, Jovelyn Gonzaga, Alyssa Valdez, Denden Lazaro, Charo Soriano,
Marge Tejada, Melissa Gohing, Mary Jean Balse, Mayeth Carolino, Michelle
Carolino, Ella De Jesus, Kara Acevedo, Karla Bello, Stephanie Gabriel, Mae
Tajima, Jayson Ramos, Maica Morada, Jed Montero, Michelle Laborte, Sasa
Devanadera, Grethcel Soltones, Joy Benito, Rubie De Leon, Mae Crisostomo,
Ynna Hao, Tina Salak, JP Torres, Dahlia Cruz, Nene Bautista, Aiza Maizo, Maika
Ortiz, Rhea Dimaculangan, Denise Tan, Venus Bernal, Jheck Dionela, Angge
Tabaquero, Mitch Datuin, Bea Pascual, Judy Caballejo, Maruja Banaticla, AJ
Pareja, Myco Antonio, Henry Pecana, Rex Intal, Dindin Santiago, Jaja Santiago,
Kathy Bersola, Princess Gaiser, Shiela Marie Bang Pineda, Mayette Zapanta,
Rosemarie Vargas, Jen Reyes, Angela Benting, Pau Soriano, Lizlee Ann Gata-
Pantone, Peter Den Mar Torres, Michelle Gumabao, Cha Cruz, Stephanie
Mercado, Jeshul Wensh Tiu, Abigail Marano, Mika Esperenza, Kim Fajardo,
Victonara Galang, and Cyd Demicillo, Renz Casanova, Chris Macasaet, Joanne
Siy, Loren Lantin, Mia Hirotsuji, Pamela Lastimosa, Ingrid Reyes, Jessey De Leon,
Carmela Tunay, Chloe Cortez, Alex Cabanos, Patricia Rasmo, Illa Santos, Joanne
Bunag, Jacqueline Alarca and Ers Iratay, known personalities in the fashion,
movie, music, sports and television industry, former Ilocos Rep. Roque ''Roquito''
Ablan, Gov. Jose Apeng Yap were around.
Up front
The Cabinet came in full force with President Aquino.
Onstage with the President were his battalions of Cabinet secretaries, including:
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Atty. Francis
Tolentino
Philippine National Police Director General Alan L.M. Purisima
Manila Police District Chief Leocadio Santiago, Jr.
Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief-of-Staff General Pio Catapangan
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Amando Tetangco, Jr.
Commission on Higher Education Chairman Patricia B. Licuanan
Cultural Center of the Philippines Chairperson Emily A. Abrera
National Commission for Culture and the Arts Chairman Felipe M. de Leon
Jr.
Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board Commissioner and CEO Antonio
M. Bernardo
Land Transportation Office Chairman Virginia P. Torres
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Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Chairman Winston
M. Ginez
Association of Broadcasters of the Philippines Chairman Butch S. Canoy
Executive Secretary Pacquito Ochoa, Jr.
Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala
Communications and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ricky
Carandang
Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin
Enviorment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje, Jr.
Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad, Jr.
Health Secretary Dr. Enrique Ona
Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel A. Roxas II
foreign affairs secretary Albert del Rosario
Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo
Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima
Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio A. Abaya
Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla
justice secretary Leila M. de Lima
labor and employment secretary Rosalinda D. Baldoz
public works and highways secretary Rogelio L. Singson
science and technology secretary Mario G. Montejo
social welfare and development secretary Corazon J. Soliman
Tourism secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr.
Julia Abad-Razon, presidential management staff
appointments secretary Rochelle R. Ahorro
deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte
presidential spokesperson Atty. Edwin Lacierda,
Senators
Velarde and Villanuevas well-wishers from the Senate included:
former senator Heherson Alvarez
Teresa Aquino-Oreta
Butz Aquino
Nikki Coseteng
John Henry Osmea
Ernesto Herrera
Loi Estrada
Juan Flavier
Robert Jaworski
Ping Lacson
Kiko Pangilinan
Vicente Paterno
Nene Pimentel
Leticia Ramos-Shahani
Santanina T. Rasul
Jovito Salonga
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Helena Benitez
Eva Estrada-Kalaw
Freddie Webb
Edgardo Angara
Vic Ziga
Ernesto Tanada and
Eddie Ilarde
Francisco Tatad,
Pia Cayetano
Alan Peter Cayetano
TG Guingona
Bongbong Marcos
Miriam Defensor-Santiago
Nancy Binay
Lito Lapid
Jinggoy Estrada
JV Ejercito
Juan Ponce Enrlie
Ralph Recto and
Vicente Sotto III.
Congressmen present were
Speaker Feliciano R. Belmonte Jr.
Majority Floor Leader Neptali Gonzales II
Ilocos Norte 2nd District Rep. Imelda Marcos
Caloocan Rep. Edgar R. Erice
Malabon Lone District Rep. Josephine Veronique R. Lacson-Noel
Navotas Lone District Rep. Toby Tiangco
Manila 4th District Rep. Maria Theresa B. Bonoan-David
Leyte 4th District Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez
Davao City 1st District Rep. Karlo Nograles
South Cotabato 1st District Rep. Pedro B. Acharon Jr
Sarangani Lone District Rep. Manny Pacquiao
Also present were:
Former Manila City Mayor and Buhay Party-List Rep. Lito Atienza
former Manila City Mayor Alfredo S. Lim
former Philippine President and now Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada
current Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista
former Quezon City Mayor Brigido Simon
Caloocan City Mayor Oscar Malapitan
Malabon City Mayor Len-Len Oreta
Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco
Valenzuela City Mayor Rexlon Gatchalian
Mandaluyong City Mayor Benhur Abalos
Marikina City Mayor Del de Guzman
former Pasig City Mayors Vicente Eusebio
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former Pasig City Mayor Soledad Eusebio
former Pasig City Mayor Bobby Eusebio
current Pasig City Mayor Maribel Andaya-Eusebio
San Juan City Mayor Guia Gomez
Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay
Taguig City Mayor Laarni Lopez-Cayetano
current Pasay City Mayor Antonio Tony Calixto
former Pasay City Mayor Wenceslao Peewee Trinidad
former Paranaque City Mayor Joey Marquez
former Paranaque City Mayor Florencio Bernabe
current Paraaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez
Las Pinas City Mayor Vergel A. Aguilar
Muntinlupa City Mayor Jaime Fresnedi
Benguet Governor Nestor Fongwan
Pangasinan Governor Amado Espino
Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan
Tabuk City, Kalinga mayor Ferdinand Tubban
Rosales, Pangasinan Mayor Susan P. Casareno
Dagupan City Mayor Belen T. Fernandez
Urdaneta City Mayor Amadeo Gregorio E. Perez IV
Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane, Jr.
Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino
Subic, Zambales Mayor Jeffrey D. Khonghun
Pampanga Provincial Governor Lilia G. Pineda
San Fernando, Pampanga Mayor Edwin Santiago
Angeles City, Pampanga Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan
Tarlac Governor Jesus Bong" Santos
Tarlac City Mayor Gelacio R. Manalang
Bataan Provincial Governor Albert S. Garcia
Balanga City Mayor Jose Enrique S. Garcia III
Bulacan Provincial Governor Wilhelmino Sy-Alvarado
Marilao Municipal Mayor Juanito "Tito" H. Santiago
Baliwag Municipal Mayor Carolina Dellosa
Malolos City Mayor Christian D. Natividad
Nueva Ecija Provincial Governor Aurelio Matias Umali
Cabanatuan City Mayor Julius Cesar V. Vergara
Rizal Provincial Governor Rebecca A. Ynares
Antipolo City Mayor Casimiro A. Ynares III
Taytay Municipal Mayor Janet De Leon-Mercado
San Mateo, Rizal Mayor Jose Rafael Diaz
Angono Mayor Gerry V. Calderon
Cavite Provincial Governor Juanito Victor Remulla
Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla
Dasmarinas City Mayor Jennifer A. Barzaga
Rosario Municipal Mayor Jose M. Ricafrente Jr.
Laguna Provincial Governor Ramil Hernndez
Santa Rosa City, Laguna Mayor Arlene B. Arcillas-Nazareno
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Calamba City Mayor Justin Marc Timmy Chipeco
San Pablo City Mayor Loreto S. Amante
Los Baos Municipal Caesar P. Perez
Batangas Provincial Governor Vilma Santos-Recto
Batangas City Mayor Eduardo B. Dimacuha
Lipa City Mayor Meynardo A. Sabili
Quezon Provincial Governor David C. Suarez
Lucena City Mayor Roderick A. Alcala
Palawan Governor Jose C. Alvarez
Puerto Princesa City Mayor Lucilo R. Bayron
Naga City Mayor John Bongat
Albay Provincial Governor Joey Salceda
Legaspi City Mayor Noel Rosal
Sorsogon Provincial Governor Antonio Escudero Jr.
Sorsogon City Mayor Sally A. Lee
Iloilo provincial Governor Arthur Defensor, Sr.
Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog
Negros Occidental provincial governor Alfredo G. Maraon, Jr.
Bacolod City Mayor Monico Puentevella
Cebu Provincial Governor Hilario Junjun Davide III
Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama
Consolacion Municipal Mayor Teresa P. Alegado
Davao del Sur Provincial Governor Claude Bautista
Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte
South Cotabato Provincial Governor Daisy Avance-Fuentes
General Santos City Mayor Ronnel Rivera
Misamis Oriental Provincial Governor Yevgeny Vicente B. Emano
Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno
Agusan del Sur Provincial Governor Adolph Edward Plaza
Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr.
Foreign dignitaries were present:
United States ambassador Philip S. Goldberg
Canadian ambassador Christopher Thronley
Spanish ambassador Jorge Domecq
Mexican ambassador Julio Camarena Villaseor
Bangladeshi ambassador Major Gen. John Gomes
Cambodian ambassador Tuot Panha
Indian ambassador Ram Trasad
Indonesian ambassador Ade Petranto
Japanese ambassador Toshinao Urabe
Korean ambassador Hyuk Lee
Lao ambassador Malayvieng Sakonhninhom
Malaysian Ambassaor Dato Mohd Zamiri Vin Mohd Kassim
Burmese ambassador Aung Khin Soe
Pakistani ambassador Safdar Hayat,
Cambodian Minister of Commerce Senior Minister Sun Chanthol
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Indonesian Finance Minister Muhamad Chatib Basri
Indonesian Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi
Indonesian Foreign Affairs Minister R.M. Marty M. Natalegawa
Malaysian International Trade and Industry Minister Mustapa Mohamed
Burmese Union Minister of Commerce U Win Myint
Burmese Union Minister of Finance and Revenue U Win Shein
Korean G20 Sherpa, Ambassador for International Cooperation Lee Il-
Houng
Japanese Senior Vice-Minister of the Cabinet Office Yasutoshi Nishimura
United States Pacific Commander Samuel J. Locklear III
Vietnam: Cao Duc Phat, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development
Asian Development Bank President Takehiko Nakao
International Monetary Fund Deputy Managing Director Naoyuki
Shinohara
World Bank Vice-President and Special Envoy, Climate Change Rachel
Kyte
Seen leaving the grandstand after the President's speech were
Marichu Vera Perez
Fr. Sonny Ramirez
Former PAGCor president Butch Tenorio and
representatives of businessman Lucio Tan.
The big and brave
Prominent personalities spotted at the Ayala rally included:
Senators Serge Osmea III
Teofisto Guingona III
Aquilino Pimentel
Sonia Roco
Former Representatives Heherson Alvarez
Joker Arroyo
Wigberto Taada
Robert Ace Barbers
Ricky Sandoval
J. Mayo Almario
Hernani Branganza
Butch Pichay
Ariel Zartiga
Etta Rosales
Diogenes Osabel
Enrico Echeverri
Apolinario Lozada;
former Senators Alberto Romulo
Jovy Salonga and
Rene Saguisag;
Today publisher Teddy Boy Locsin
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Star columnist Alex Magno
Sonny Dominguez
Anthony Pangilinan
members of the Rufino, Francisco, Prieto, Romualdez, Olarte, Reinoso and
Valdes family including Macario Rufino.
Loyalists
Predictably, thousands of Marcos loyalists joined the El Shaddai rally just in time
for the visit of Pope Francis to raise their prayer requests to Yahweh El Shaddai,
who, they said, is ''the only hope of Ma'am Imelda (Marcos).
Some 2,000 members of Marcos Loyalists Foundation based in the National
Capital Region came in several jeeps to pray for justice for the Marcoses, who
have suffered a lot since Ferdinand (Marcos) was ousted from power.
We can do nothing without prayer. We believe that Yahweh will guide Ma'am
Imelda in all the trials she is facing, said Juliet Mendoza, a coordinator of the
Marcos Loyalist Foundation in the NCR. The former first lady has nearly a hundred
cases of graft pending in the Sandiganbayan.
Mendoza, who claimed that almost all members of their group are also members
of El Shaddai, added that the wife of former President Ferdinand Marcos will be
used by Yahweh to answer the needs of the Filipino people. With a report from
Blanche Rivera and Maria Ceres P. Doyo
Reconfigured jet to fly Pope.
A reconfigured Airbus A300 aircraft of Philippine Airlines (PAL) will fly Pope Francis
to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea today at the close of His Holiness' four-day
pastoral and state visit to the Philippines.
Senior officials of Philippine Airlines led by Chairman Dr. Lucio Tan and President
Ramon S. Ang and the charterers, PMFTC, Inc. will join the Pontiff on the flight
that will take about four hours and 42 minutes. Papua New Guinea is the second
stop in the Holy Father's Asian tour this year.
After farewell ceremonies at the Old Manila International Airport, the Plane
enblazoned with the exultation: Totus Tuus! takes off at around 10:00 A.M.
The flight will be commanded by Captain Johnny Andrews. The pilot-in-
command is Captain Alfredo Juliano who assisted by Captain Oliver Castro, First
Officers Ruben Matro and Servando Bocao and flight engineers Danny Hallare
and Manuelito Respaldon. Inflight service will be provided two sets of cabin crew
numbering 22 led-by pursers Angelito Tiras and John Inopea.
The rest of the crew are assistant flight purser Aurora Bautista, stewards Wesley
Calfoforo, Salvador Cacho, Joseph Torral, Rafael Torralba, Aurora Ponce-Enrile,
Susan del Carmen, Jesulta de Leon, Stella Frias, Elsie Escutin, Hermie Cagalingan,
Cristina Padilla, Lourdes Ledesma, Ysabel Costas, Evangeline Gatmaitan,
Margarita Manzano, Cynthia Rosales and Service Manager Augusto Barrios.
As reconfigured, the Aircraft is fitted with special seats, a sleeperette, and a
dedicated lavatory to suit the requirements of the Holy Father during the flight to
Port Moresby, located some 2,161 nautical miles south of Manila
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During the deceased pope John Paul 2's visit in February 1981, PAL flew the
Pontiff to several key cities in the country: including Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, Davao,
Baguio and Subic.
After the celebration
El Shaddai meet not for Cha-cha, says solon (By Rocky Nazareno and TJ Burgonio)
THE EL Shaddais October 25-27 gathering at the Luneta was not a show of support for
President Benigno Aquino IIIs campaign for Charter change but was ''nothing more,
nothing less'' than a celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide founder, international
president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanuevas birthday and Jesus is
Lord Church Worldwide anniversary in time for the pastoral and state visit of Pope
Francis here in the Philippines.
Quezon City Rep. Matias Defensor made this remark as he praised members of the
Roman Catholic charismatic renewal religious movements for not allowing their holy
and happy gathering to be tainted by the divisive and self-serving agenda of the Aquino
administration.
The belated birthday celebration of Villanueva and annual founding anniversary
celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide coincided with the Rally for
Democracy staged by anti-Charter change groups in Makati City.
Plain and simple, the people did not go to Luneta for Noynoy but for Brother Mike
Velarde and for their belief in the El Shaddai, Defensor said.
The young congressman noted that neither published nor broadcast reports showed that
those who went to Luneta were even interested in President Benigno Aquino III.
To say that the El Shaddai members went there only for the food would be in bad taste,
he said.
''That was merely incidental because, in the first place, they were there for the blessings
and the celebration of their holy faith.''
Defensor said that if there was anything that the Makati and Luneta rallies had in
common, it was that ''both were staged with the strong conviction and faith of those who
attended.''
''Strong conviction and faith for the tenets of freedom and democracy in Makati and
strong conviction and faith for God--the El Shaddai--in Luneta, he said.
As a result, Filipinos ''now do not look at the two rallies as a battle of numbers but as
complementing examples of what belief in principles or religion could achieve,'' he said.
Opening floodgates
Msgr. Domingo Cirilos of the San Fernando de Dilao parish church in Paco, Manila,
yesterday said he was unconvinced by Mr. Aquinos assurance that the Charter changes
he is seeking would only be economic and not political in nature.
''Once you open the Charter, it could be open to any change--political or economic,''
Cirilos told reporters. ''You open the floodgates to all the other changes that have been
stated already.''
Cirilos talked to reporters shortly after Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal G.
Tagle celebrated a 9:30 a.m. Mass marking the 415th anniversary of the San Fernando de
Dilao church on Paz Street in Paco.
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Tagle, who led Friday's pro-democracy rally together with former President Corazon
Aquino and who read a stinging statement on the Estrada administration, yesterday
skirted the issues of Charter change, cronyism and media suppression in his homily.
He limited his sermon to the day's gospel on faith.
Together with Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada, he unveiled a new marker in the facade of
the church.
After the Mass, Sin, who looked weak, was driven away in his service car before
reporters could interview him.
No guarantee
Cirilos pointed out that there was no guarantee that Congress, once it convenes itself into
a constituent assembly, would not take up political amendments to the Constitution.
''They're in control once there's a constituent assembly,'' said the priest. ''They can do
anything. The only thing we can do maybe is to demonstrate again. But that's all we can
do.''
At the El Shaddai gathering on Sunday, October 27, Mr. Aquino declared that he was
only seeking economic reforms in the Constitution.
We need to adjust our Constitution with global realities, Mr. Estrada said, for the
present Constitution was framed in a different time where the economy of nations was
based on 'protectionism.
Cirilos said the President should seriously consider the reasons that the Catholic Bishops
Conference of the Philippines cited for opposing Charter change at this time.
He said this would be the best gift the President could give to his sister on her birthday on
October 27.
No disinformation
Cirilos also dismissed the comment of Fr. Sonny Ramirez, the President's spiritual
adviser, that thousands of people attended the Makati rally because of media
disinformation on Mr. Estrada's Charter change plans.
''That's not disinformation,'' he said. ''What's happening is true. It's a fact that we can't
deny.''
He also rejected Ramirez's opinion that the ''thinking'' people shunned the Makati rally.
''I don't think so,'' said Cirilos. ''I don't think that he can speak on behalf of the people. For
all you know, these people are the silent majority who are against Charter change.''
Ramirez had made his comments in the President's weekly TV-radio program, ''Jeep ni
Erap,'' on Saturday.
Preview
Satur Ocampo, former National Democratic Front spokesperson, warned that Mr. Estrada
would face more militant protest actions if he insists on tinkering with the Constitution.
In an interview on radio station dzXL, Ocampo said Friday's pro-democracy rally was
just a preview of what is coming.
Ocampo said removing the nationalist provisions of the Constitution would preempt any
attempt by the government and other concerned sectors to protect and advance the
interest of the Filipinos.
He said the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan would join the Sept. 21 rally to commemorate
the 27th anniversary of the declaration of martial law.
Bayan and other militant groups will conduct information campaigns to enlighten the
people on the dangers of Mr. Aquinos plan to amend the Charter, according to him.
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''Paano masasabing Erap para sa mahirap gayung ang tatamaan sa kanyang mga plano
ay ang mga mahihirap (How can you say Erap is for the poor when it is the poor who
will suffer due to his plans),'' said Leopoldo Zerrudo, spokesperson of the Kapulungan ng
mga Sandigang Mag-aaral ng Batas (Kasama ng Batas).
Emmanuel Miguel, grand knight of the Fraternus Ordo de Justicia law fraternity based at
the Adamson University, said lawyers, law students and legal advocates should unite in
opposing Charter change.
Bigger participation
In Davao City, the People Resist against Rising Tyranny and the Archdiocese of Davao
said they were bringing their campaign against Charter change to the grass roots to win
bigger public support for future protest actions.
Glen Amoroso, secretary general of Bayan Davao City, said more poor people, especially
the workers and landless farmers, would join the Sept. 21 rally. They would suffer most if
the Charter change plans are carried out, he said.
Fr. Leonardo Dublan, director of the Social Action Center of the Davao Archdiocese, said
the education drive was going on in parishes, schools and community chapels.
In Koronadal, South Cotabato, Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez said the grass-roots campaign
had not stopped.
At least 3,500 people joined the anti-Charter change rally in Koronadal on Friday. With
reports from Nelson Flores in Manila; J owel F. Canuday and Allan A. Nawal, PDI
Mindanao Bureau
After mounting yet another mammoth celebration, the El Shaddai members are
increasingly gaining critics for the way some of them behaved during Mass and
turned Manila into a wasteland.
The 36th anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide, headed by
founder, president and spiritual director Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva which drew
an estimated three million people, ended around 8:30 a.m. the next day,
Monday, October 27, taking 24 hours to mammoth crowd through the citys
central district.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Friday said it
collected 336 tons of garbage along the celebration route from Quirino
Grandstand to Port Area to Quiapo Church. The agency mobilized scores of
street cleaners, starting with those deployed at the tail-end of the predominantly
male crowd, who went to work as soon as the road was clear of devotees.
We are deeply saddened by the way Quiapo turned into a dump due to the
unimpeded disposal of garbage in the streets, said Tin Vergara, a campaigner
for the environmentalist group EcoWaste.
Vergara said the groups Basura (trash) Patrollers reported widespread littering
on the streets of Carriedo, Evangelista, R. Hidalgo, C. Palanca, Paterno, Gonzalo
Puyat and Villalobos, on Quezon Boulevard and at Plaza Miranda.
The Quiapo collection is still going on so there should be more (than what the
MMDA had reported), EcoWaste leader Manny Calonzo added.
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The drains on Quezon Boulevard were covered with trash, portions of Evangelista
Street were strewn with burnt firecrackers, and the corner of Evangelista-
Ronquillo Streets had a huge pile of stinking waste, EcoWaste also noted in a
statement. Past midnight, people were literally walking on garbage on Carriedo
Street, it added.
The dirty streets of Quiapo do not (jibe with) Manilas vision of making the feast
of the Black Nazarene an international tourist attraction, Vergara said, referring
to a reported plan of the Manila Tourism and Cultural Affairs Bureau.
We want our foreign visitors to bear witness to our peoples indomitable faith
and remember the prayers and sacrifices of the mamamasan (the group of
laymen in charge of the image), not the inhospitable dumping of garbage on
Quiapo streets. That is not the kind of publicity we want, she said.
The devotees were also criticized for disrupting the evening Holy Mass con-
celebrated by Pope Francis and Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle
before the start of the procession at Quirino Grandstand. After Pope Francis
ended his homily, scores of male devotees broke through the police barrier and
rushed the stage to seize the statue.
The devotees ignored pleas from Rev. Fr. Anton Pascual of Radyo Veritas to let
Tagle finish the Mass. The archbishops, cardinals, bishops and other priests from
200 countries later finished the service backstage.
In an interview Friday, Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo expressed
disappointment over the devotees unruly behavior.
That is not genuine religion, said Lagdameo, who watched the feast on TV. All
pushing and shoving, to each his own. More people could go near the Nazarene
if they were disciplined.
Our devotees should be continuously catechized. Their faith should be
deepened and enriched, Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco added.
But for the Quiapo Church rector, Msgr. Clemente Ignacio, this years traslacion
was generally successful and meaningful despite the disrupted Mass.
Ignacio said the men who rushed the stage represented only a small
percentage of the devotees who showed up for the procession.
Ninety-eight to 99 percent were praying. And it doesnt mean the devotees
(who stopped the Mass) have not been praying. We cannot judge them, he
said.
(p. 1)
(Vibal Foundation, 2014)
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"He wants to return: "Perhaps another opportunity... I don't know how"
Manila, Philippines, October 28, 2014 - Pope Francis left the Philippines for Papua New
Guinea on Monday, October 27 after a triumphant visit that injected new vigor into his
papacy and drew a record crowd numbering several million for a annual Papal event.
Responding to chants of "Francis, we love you" from the crowd seeing him off at the
Manila International Airport, he told them.
The 76 years old Pontiff looked tired after a grueling four-day visit but climbed the stairs
to the plane unaided, holding the railing with both hands. After Papua New Guinea, he
goes on to Australia. His 11-day tour ends in Sri Lanka, where Buddhists have threatened
to boycott his annual visit over remarks in the deceased former Pope John Paul 2' best-
selling book Crossing the Thresher of Hope.
Francis came to The Philippines, the heartland of Catholicism in Asia, with many people
fearing the one year, seven month reign was flagging after months of his installation.
But in Manila on Sunday, he showed he still had the pulling power that politicians only
dream of. Jubilant Vatican officials aid the estimated four million people who packed the
center of Manila for the climax of the annual anniversary celebration of evangelical
Christian and Roman Catholic charismatic renewal religious group and movement Jesus
is Lord Church gave the Pope the biggest welcome he had ever seen. It surpassed even
the crowd that greeted him when the deceased Pope Emeritus John Paul II to Poland for
the first time in 1979.
A thousand images.
"I take with me a thousand images of the Filipino people," the Pope said before departing
aboard a Philippine Airlines aircraft.
"I know your desire for greater justice and a better life for yourselves and your children.
No one can underestimate the difficulties you face and the hard work that lies ahead."
He called for a new sense of responsibility in society and for Filipinos to pursue
development that preserves and promotes the true values of your Filipino culture.
During his visit, he used an address to Filipino, Malaysian, Indonesian, Thai, Vietnamese,
Chinese, Taiwanese, Korean, Japanese, Indian, Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi, Pakistani
Roman Catholic territorial archbishops, bishops and cardinals to hammer home the
Church's opposition to all forms of artificial contraception and abortion.
"Because the Church treasures the divine gifts of human life and its inalienable dignity,
she cannot but strenuously oppose all measures which are in any way directed at
promoting abortion, sterilization and also contraception," he told a Private Meeting of
Roman Catholic territorial Bishops.
Bishop wants Bro. Mike probed (By Dona Pazzibugan)
THE Catholic Church is set to take a hard look at its most prominent layman.
The powerful Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) will investigate
Mariano Mike Z. Velarde, founder and servant-leader of the Catholic charismatic
movement, El Shaddai and Eduardo Eddie C. Villanueva, founder, international
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president and spiritual director of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide, for going against the
positions taken by the Catholic Church on recent national issues.
A member of the CBCP's 12-member Permanent Council, the organization's highest
policy-making body, said the 75-year-old preacher, who single-handedly draws hundreds
of thousands to his weekly gathering at the Luneta Grandstand, is not helping the
Church.
Bishop Juan De Dios Pueblos of Butuan City, one of the two bishops representing
Mindanao in the Permanent Council, told the INQUIRER that he would propose for the
CBCP to study Velarde's pronouncements in the context of whether they contradict
Church doctrine.
Velarde and Villanueva could not be reached for comment yesterday. His spokesman said
he was in Tagaytay City.
Yesterday, Msgr. Pedro Quitorio, CBCP spokesperson, also said the council would
definitely take up Pueblos' proposal in their meeting, but would first deliberate on it.
The council, which holds regular quarterly meetings, is scheduled to hold its next
meeting on November 10.
The CBCP hierarchy will determine which action to take depend(ing) on the result of
the study, Pueblos explained when interviewed Friday at the CBCP main office in
Intramuros, Manila.
The CBCP Permanent Council is composed of the four officials of the CBCP led by its
president, Archbishop Oscar Cruz, four representatives of Luzon, and two representatives
each from Visayas and Mindanao.
Unique
Pueblos said the bishops may first have to resolve the unique position of El Shaddai
DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International Inc. and Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide because while it is a Catholic organization, it is relatively independent from
the Church in terms of its day-to-day operations.
''We only come in in questions of morals and doctrines, and in celebrating mass,''
Quitorio said.
El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International and Jesus is Lord Church
Worldwide is under the direct supervision of the Archdiocese of Manila. It had
designated Bishop Teodoro Bacani D.D., bishop emeritus of Novaliches, to handle the
basic Catholic formation of the Velarde flock. He is assisted by priests in every parish
where the El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International Roman Catholic
Charismatic Religious Renewal movement has taken root.
Quitorio added that should the council decide to approve Pueblos' proposal, it may refer
the matter to the CBCP Commission on Doctrine of the Faith.
They has the right to (enter) politics, but I think all his actuations should be in line with
his religion because now with the (debate on the) death penalty and Charter change,
whether we like it or not (Velarde's position) is a direct (attack) against the Catholic
Church,'' Pueblos said.
Spiritual adviser
Velarde and Villanueva, whom President Benigno Aquino III designated as his spiritual
adviser, endorsed the President's position in favor of the death penalty, the RP-US
Visiting Forces Agreement and lately, the amendments to the Constitution.
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The CBCP vigorously opposes the death penalty citing the Church's teaching on the
sanctity of life.
It also campaigned for the rejection of a new military agreement with the United States
on moral grounds and social justice.
The CBCP has strongly opposed Mr. Aquinos attempts to tinker with the Charter, saying
amending the Constitution will not solve the country's more urgent problems.
The archbishop of Manila, Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle, together with the pork-barrel
groups, held a protest rally in Makati on Sunday against President Benigno Aquino IIIs
proposal to change the Constitution.
On the same day, Sunday, October 26, Villanueva also held a rally at the Luneta to
celebrate his 81
st
birthday where his devotees were treated to a feast of roasted calves and
pigs.
President Benigno Aquino III addressed Villanuevas birthday crowd estimated at
300,000.
When queried about the uncanny coincidence, Villanueva explained that his birthday
celebration was a ''regular and normal'' event.
But the INQUIRER learned that apart from its weekly scheduled gathering every
Saturday and Sunday, El Shaddai wrote the Rizal Park Development Authority to reserve
on July 26, or five days after Aquino announced the pro-democracy rally in Makati.
Pueblos clarified that the CBCP was more concerned in guiding Velarde rather than
censuring the 75-year-old charismatic leader.
I don't think 'censure' is the right term. It is more on the aspect of guiding, giving
guidance. Since his group is Catholic, then we also have to guide them as we do to
everybody, Pueblos.
Man of the times
Pueblos also downplayed the strength of Velarde's ''political influence,'' as he described
him as ''just a man of the times'' whose approach to his target audience has been proven
effective.
A geodetic engineer by profession, Velarde was a real estate developer before buying
radio station dwXI, which he has been using as a vehicle for his weekly Gospel program
starting in 1983.
With the increasingly positive response to his gospel broadcasts, Velarde registered in
1985 dwXI (El Shaddai) Prayer Partners Foundation International Inc. with the Securities
and Exchange Commission.
This is the legal machinery behind Velarde's religious activities.
Today, El Shaddai has mission centers throughout the country and in Hong Kong, Macau,
Taiwan, Korea, Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Austria, Denmark, France,
Greece, Switzerland, England, Cyprus, Spain, Israel, Australia, the Middle East, Canada,
Germany, Italy and the United States.
Velarde: No reason for bishops' probe (By Dona Pazzibugan)
Manila, Philippines, October 29, 2014 - EL SHADDAI founder Bro. Mariano ''Mike'' Z.
Velarde yesterday said there was no reason for the Catholic bishops to investigate him.
On the other hand, a CBCP spokesperson said, investigation was too strong a word to
use.
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I don't see any grounds (for an investigation) or any violation regarding doctrines of the
faith and morals because we are properly guided by (Manila Auxiliary) Bishop (Teodoro)
Bacani, Velarde said in a phone interview.
He said he had faithfully followed the teachings of the Church while leading the 30-year-
old Roman Catholic charismatic renewal religious movement.
Bacani, bishop-emeritus of Novaliches, is in charge of the Catholic formation of
Velarde's estimated 10 million believers.
Velarde was reacting to the call of a member of the policy-making permanent council of
the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) ''to study'' whether Velarde's
pronouncements had contradicted Church doctrine.
Bishop Juan de Dios Pueblos of the Butuan City diocese said Velarde was not ''helping
the Church.
President Benigno Aquino III said he would not interfere in a row between the Catholic
bishops and Velarde, who became one of his most influential supporters after he secretly
instructed El Shaddai followers to vote for him in the 2010 elections.
We are not involved in the religious sector. We don't interfere there. There is a
separation of the church and the state, Mr. Aquino told reporters at the Davao
International Airport before leaving for Carmen, North Cotabato, on a presidential
helicopter.
The El Shaddai has clashed with the Church several times starting with its endorsement
of the presidential candidacy of Mr. Aquino, who was indirectly turned down by the
Church for his ''womanizing.''
Since then Velarde has supported Mr. Aquinos stance favoring the death penalty, the
RP-US Visiting Forces Agreement, and recently, Charter change.
The conflict was highlighted on October 26 when Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide
founder, international president and spiritual director bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva
celebrated his 81st birthday at the Rizal Park in Manila on the same day that the pork
barrel groups staged a rally in Makati City to protest the Charter change being pushed by
Mr. Estrada.
The President turned Villanuevas belated birthday celebration into a platform to attack
the protest rally in Makati.
'Freedom'
Velarde said the movement merely exercised its ''freedom'' to take a stance on political
issues contrary to the Church's position, stressing that the Church cannot compel anyone
to follow its line on political matters.
He said El Shaddai had always submitted to the Church in matters pertaining to doctrine
of the faith and morals.
But then if it is (a matter of) the freedom of expression of our political leanings and
inclinations, I don't think the Church hierarchy will compel anyone to follow their line,
he said.
Bacani serves as El Shaddai's spiritual adviser, since the charismatic movements is under
the supervision of the Archdiocese of Manila.
Aside from Bacani, the group's other spiritual advisers are Fathers Sanny de Claro and
Anton Pascual.
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A spokesperson of the CBCP yesterday said the bishops would ask El Shaddais adviser
priests, especially Bacani, for inputs before taking action on the proposal of Pueblos to
look into Velarde's pronouncements in the context of Church teachings.
Msgr. Hernando Coronel said the word investigation was too strong a word to use.
He said the proposal was to ''study'' the El Shaddai leaders pronouncements.
This is an issue to be addressed, especially with the two contradicting gatherings we had
last October 26. It's a valid concern. But we have to get the side of El Shaddai and Bishop
Bacani, Coronel said.
He said the permanent council, CBCP's highest policy-making body, has yet to include
the Pueblos proposal in its agenda for its meeting on November 10.
Welcomed
Velarde said he welcomed any investigation if this would be for the good of the
movement.
''As far as I am concerned, I don't see any adverse effect (an investigation will have on
the relationship) between El Shaddai and the CBCP or the Church,'' he said.
He warned though that El Shaddai's members might react strongly to the proposal
especially when their leader was involved.
Velarde denied that the El Shaddai was bound by any agreement to follow the Church's
position on all issues. ''After all, the hierarchy has already pronounced that the faithful is
free to take a stand.''
''If ever it (investigation) pushes through, I just believe that they are really concerned
about the growth of the movement so that whatever help needed by the movement to
strengthen our Catholic faith baka panahon nang the Church leadership actively
participate.''
Coronel said Velarde had submitted himself to the CBCP before.
''He has submitted himself to the conference. Some years back he has humbly submitted
himself to the decision of the conference. We would treat him fairly,'' the CBCP
spokesperson said.
Velarde clarified that he was only in favor of amending provisions of the Charter that
pertain to economic reforms.
He said he agreed with Mr. Estrada's proposal to lift the ''restrictive provisions'' in the
Charter.
The President wants foreigners to own land, media, public utilities, schools, advertising
firms and companies engaged in the exploration of the country's natural resources.
Velarde said he was convinced that Mr. Estrada ''means well, that he's not after any other
alteration of the Constitution.''
Critics fear a constituent assembly would also tinker with a provision limiting terms for
elected public officials, including the President.
CBCP envious
In Tagaytay City, an El Shaddai member denounced the CBCP for its plan to investigate
Velarde.
Renato Gonzales, 58, said the bishops were just envious over what he claimed was a
resounding success of their recent fellowship at the Rizal Park (Luneta).
We never went to Luneta only to eat lechon. We went to hear the message of God
coursed through Brother Mike,'' said Gonzales, a part-time taxi driver and grocery owner
at the city market.
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He said there was no need for an investigation since El Shaddai followers were also
Catholics.
Pope Francis would not give his blessing to El Shaddai if our movement is remiss in its
duty and obligation as a member of the greater Catholic community, Gonzales said in
Filipino.
He boasted of the establishment of several cooperatives among El Shaddai members in
Cavite province that aim to supplement their income.
He said the cooperatives would be stocked with all basic grocery items under the name
Joyful.
Evasive
In Lucena City, El Shaddai members were evasive in giving comments on the proposed
investigation of Velarde by the CBCP.
''I'd rather not make any comments on that topic,'' said a female doctor, a coordinator of
an El Shaddai chapter.
A parish priest in St. Ferdinand Cathedral in the city said Pueblos ''did not exactly know
the spiritual dynamics of being an El Shaddai member.''
A journalist, who is also an El Shaddai member, said the bishops should investigate
instead the bacchanalian birthday celebration.
''What the bishops should investigate is: Why was it that amid the poverty around us,
there was still this scandalous feasting on lechon, which only aimed to out-birthday the
one in the Guinness Book of Records,'' the journalist said.
''Kayabangan na lang ang nangyari sa Luneta,'' he said. With reports from Delfin T.
Mallari J r., PDI Southern Luzon Bureau; and J owel F. Canuday and Ayan C.
Mellejor, PDI Mindanao Bureau
Bishops start move to rein in Bro. Mike (By Stella O. Gonzales)
Manila, Philippines, November 11, 2014 (INQUIRER) - THE CATHOLIC Bishops
Conference of the Philippines yesterday urged El Shaddai leader Mariano Bro. Mike
Velarde to adhere to the Catholic hierarchy's socio-moral position on public issues and
exercise transparency in the management of the group's funds.
The bishops also want Velarde, who has admitted to a lack of knowledge of Catholic
doctrinal matters, and his volunteer preachers to study the doctrine and the faith.
They also asked Velarde not to encourage superstitious beliefs and cultist practices
among El Shaddai members.
The five-point bill of recommendations was arrived at after a meeting yesterday of the
Permanent Council of the CBCP, the highest decision-making body of the country's
Catholic hierarchy.
The CBCP said, however, it had not discussed whether it would penalize Velarde if he
were to ignore the bishops' suggestions.
Bro. Mike's move
The CBCP Permanent Council has given its fraternal recommendation as becoming of
good Christians . . . Our subsequent action will be dictated by the action of Bro. Mike
Velarde on these concerns,'' said CBCP president Archbishop Oscar Cruz.
No timetable was set for Velarde's compliance with the suggestions from the CBCP.
Cruz stressed that the bishops' concerns, to be coursed through El Shaddai spiritual
adviser Bishop Teodoro Bacani, were merely advisory.
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It's not even a warning But the concerns are serious and we present them seriously. It
cannot be taken lightly, but neither is it a threat, Cruz said.
Velarde was reported to be in Hong Kong yesterday and was expected back later this
week. His spokesman, Bro. Mel Robles, refused to comment on the matter until he
receives the formal advisory from Bacani.
Right now, the ball is with Bishop Bacani, Robles told the INQUIRER.
The CBCP's Cruz said Bacani (was) one with us in these concerns. He said he had been
in close communication with Bacani on the case.
We did not take the case of Bro. Mike Velarde independently of Bishop Bacani, Cruz
said.
One of 30 issues
The El Shaddai case was one of 30 issues discussed by the 10-man Permanent Council in
yesterday's meeting. Cruz said he took the initiative to include the topic in the agenda.
The discussion was not about El Shaddai, but its founder, Velarde.
Yesterday was the fourth time that the CBCP had taken up the El Shaddai issue since the
group's founding 30 years ago. In 1993, Velarde was asked to appear before the CBCP
Plenary Assembly in Tagaytay City to clarify some matters.
In 1995, the bishops asked more clarificatory questions. In 1996, the bishops asked
Bacani about the complaints made by a former policeman who left El Shaddai after
making allegations of irregularities.
Yesterday was the first time that the CBCP decided to formally express its concerns
because, Cruz said, El Shaddai had become so big, its membership estimated by Velarde
at 10 million.
Opposing views
Cruz noted that of the hundreds of Catholic lay leaders in the country, only Velarde held
opposing views to the CBCP's socio-moral positions.
All of a sudden we have this phenomenon of a big group veering away so it has caught
our attention. We thought that it was about time we be more formal about it,'' Cruz said.
He also said that United States bishops, during a meeting with Philippine bishops on Aug.
25, raised their concern about El Shaddai chapters in the US. The CBCP has also been
getting many letters from Catholics for and against El Shaddai.
''Ang amin lamang pahatid sa kanya ay makiisa siya sa CBCP . . . sapagka't baka
mapagkamalan siyang humihiwalay sa simbahan at sa CBCP (What we want to
communicate to him is that he be one with the CBCP, because he could be suspected of
breaking away from the Church and the CBCP.),'' Cruz said.
The first of CBCP's five concerns involves Velarde's position on so-called socio-moral
issues.
''We are inviting (Velarde) to be more in solidarity with the CBCP in its socio-moral
positions rather than with merely partisan political options, lest this be misconstrued as
contradicting and thus in effect separating Mr. Velarde and the movement from the
ecclesiastical leadership of the country,'' the Council said.
No bearing
Cruz explained that Velarde's stand on the death penalty and the Visiting Forces
Agreement ''has absolutely no bearing on the advisory of the Permanent Council.''
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He said the CBCP was focusing its attention on Velarde and not on other Catholics who
also hold views contrary to the Catholic hierarchy's ''because he is not an ordinary
Catholic who cannot sway other Catholics.''
''If he is not a leader, he would not be noticed. He is leading a Catholic flock and the
people belong to the Catholic Church,'' Cruz said.
The second CBCP concern is the need to ''strengthen the sound and sufficient formation
of the movement's leaders in order to make them more credible and acceptable not only
to the laity they serve but to the local Church leadership.''
Because El Shaddai was a supposedly Catholic movement, Velarde and his volunteer
preachers ''should get more Catholic foundation--we have noticed that they are not
grounded in Catholic doctrine and faith.''
Prosperity gospel
Third, Velarde should ''be more prudent in encouraging practices that tend towards
superstition or cult of the founder's person and in stressing a prosperity Gospel that fails
to give sufficient attention to the Gospel of the Cross.''
An example cited by Cruz was the practice of El Shaddai members of opening their
umbrellas and turning them upside down supposedly in order to catch God's blessings.
''You might give a wrong impression of how God works. You need to be more careful
about these things,'' Cruz said.
The bishops are also concerned that El Shaddai might be too cult-oriented.
No focus on God
Baka naka-focus sa kanya (Velarde) ang mga tao at hindi sa Diyos, (people are
focusing on Velarde, not on God), Cruz said. ''The church is not grounded on persons. If
something is grounded on a person and the person leaves or dies, the flock gets lost and
scattered.''
Fourth, Velarde should ''be more receptive to collaborators who can be more objective in
their view and more dependable in their counsel.''
Cruz noted that Velarde relies on a council of advisers who help him run El Shaddai. He
said Velarde should get advisers who are ''not over dependent on him so he could get a
pretty good corporate advice.''
''Hindi yung kami-kami lang, tayo-tayo lang. This movement is bigger than tayo-tayo.
Get more people who are not 'yes men' to get more objective, dependable advice. Get out
of that inner circle, otherwise all the advice you would get are the ones you want to hear,''
Cruz said.
Lastly, the bishops want Velarde, ''on his own initiative and responsible discretion'' to be
''more transparent in the management of El Shaddai funds as these have continuously
been the aspect of his ministry most subject to criticism.''
Cruz stressed that the bishops were not telling Velarde to make an accounting of funds to
the CBCP. He said the CBCP was leaving it up to Velarde's discretion how he intended to
make El Shaddai fund management more transparent.

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