CHOOSE PHILIPPINES MUSIC VIDEO

Choose Philippines, an ABS-CBN travel website, has launched the music video "Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas" to further promote the fascinating tourist destinations of the country. The song was performed by Star Power grand winner Angeline Quinto and Austria's "Musical the Show" winner Vincent Bueno.

The lyrics for “Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas” were written by Robert Labayen, the vice president of ABS-CBN’s Creative Communications Management (CCM). He is the man behind many Station IDs, the most recent being the “BidaBest sa Tag-Araw” 2011 Summer ID as well many memorable advertising campaigns.

PILIIN NATIN ANG PILIPINAS (LYRICS)

Minsa'y natuwa ang Maylikha
Pitong libong pulo ang ginawa
Mga hiyas na inilatag
Sa mala-sutlang dagat

At ang bayan Niyang pinili
Nasa dulo ng bahaghari
Kaya't isanlibong kulay
Nang-aakit, kumakaway

Chorus:
Piliin mo rin ang Pilipinas
Kapuluang kwintas ng perlas
Piliin mo, yakapin mo
Kayamanan niyang likas
Piliin mo ang Pilipinas

Kasayahang di mabatid
Ramdam sa bawat awit
Sa masisiglang indak
Mga puso'y lumilipad

Repeat Chorus

At ang ngiti ng Maykapal
Taglay ng bawat nilalang
May lambing na dumuduyan
Sa buong pakiramdam

Repeat Chorus

Dito ay itinadhana
Araw, buwan, at mga tala
Ganap na magniningning
Kailan ma'y 'di magdidilim

If you know
what I'm talking about
Suitcase in the house
with the party sound
First choice, first love
if ya'll ask around
We gonna Choose Philippines!

Come on shout it out
Everybdy's gonna dance to this
I see the whole world
party in the Philippines
Philippines now with Angeline
Quinto, Bueno on
the TV screen hey!

This is like a samba
From Rio to Manila
will be hitting on drums ya
Shake, shake it off
on beats of life
No more drama and shout
We gonna Choose Philippines!

No one other
The world keeps talking
But we aint walking
We keep on dancing
That's how we rock it
7,107 islands of beauty
See pieces of heaven

Piliin mo rin ang Pilipinas
(Choose Philippines choose)
Piliin mo rin ang Pilipinas
(We gotta Choose Philippines)
Piliin mo rin ang Pilipinas
(Choose Philippines choose)
Piliin mo rin ang Pilipinas

Repeat Chorus Twice

Piliin mo ang Pilipinas
Piliin mo ang Pilipinas
Piliin mo ang Pilipinas

CHOOSE PHILIPPINES

Choose Philippines is all about going out there, discover new things and have fun while doing it! Choose Philippines is encouraging Filipino residents and our foreign visitors to register on the website (it’s easy and it’s FREE!) and share their experiences.

It invites netizens to share about their travels, adventures and misadventures in their very own words: Where did they go? What can we expect (scary insects, tidal waves, the best places to eat, etc)? What do we need to bring (sandals instead of shoes, anti-mosquito lotion, etc)? How to get there and how much? Also a bit of trivia and local flavor about the place would be fantastic!

Choose Philippines also invite users to email their beautiful photos (high-resolution would be best!) and a short “caption-like” article about these images. Story and photo contributions can be emailed to choosephils@gmail.com.

Simply “like” the official fan page “Choose Philippines” on Facebook. Invite as many of your friends to do the same! Just by doing this you are already making a difference for our country! Choose now! Choose Philippines!

SA PILING NG WALA: SAPLOT

Going barefoot to work, I-Witness host Howie Severino got an inkling of what it is like to be in the shoes, so to speak, of people who can’t even afford slippers. Dodging spit, crap, and the hard soles of fellow commuters, Howie would soon realize that going barefoot in the city was the easy part of doing the documentary.

Howie then traveled to one of the poorest rural areas in the country, the Bondoc peninsula in Quezon, where slippers are a luxury to many.

Howie stayed with a corn-farming family living on a mountain top strewn with sharp coral-like rocks. There he accompanied the family’s barefoot children as they hiked down the mountain, enduring assorted hazards just so they could sell a hundred pesos worth of suman to people in the poblacion.

The fourth and final episode of I-Witness anniversary month of special documentaries on deprivation, Saplot examines another aspect about how the other half lives.

SAPLOT: Part 1

SAPLOT: Part 2

SAPLOT: Part 3

SAPLOT: Part 4

CEBU LEADS IN THE NATIONAL GREENING PROGRAM

In line with the regional implementation of government’s National Greening Program (NGP) spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Cebu province posted the highest accomplishment rate among four provinces in the Central Visayas region.

DENR7 data indicates that since the NGP was launched in Central Visayas in June this year, the region has already hit 22 percent or 1,190.5 hectares of its 5,632-hectare target in terms of area coverage.

Cebu province topped the list with 48.41 percent or 946 hectares, followed by Negros Oriental with 151.62 hectares or 8.13 percent, Bohol with 1,563 hectares or 5.84 percent, and Siquijor with 2 hectares or 0.79 percent.

“There is a need to closely work together so that we would be able to achieve our 5,632-hectare target this year by promoting social mobilization and volunteerism,” said DENR7 Regional Executive Director Maximo O. Dichoso.

Cebu province’s NGP target comes to 1,954 hectares, with the town of Argao ranking first in terms of planting coverage, followed by Carmen and Toledo City.

The NGP is among the Aquino administration’s top programs, with the main objective of reforesting 1.5 million hectares of forestland in a broad effort to promote a sustained environmental awareness campaign to address the deleterious effects of climate change.

Moreover, the DENR 7 has also substantially exceeded its target of 2.816 million seedlings for the NGP by making use of 3.423 million.

Negros Oriental also went over by 173 percent or 1.614 million seedlings against its target of 932,000 seedlings; Siquijor as well, with 107 percent or 133,909 seedlings from its original target of 125,500 seedlings; and Cebu, with 103 percent or 1.008 million seedlings in excess of it’s 977,000-seedling target. Bohol, for its part, used up 667,414 out of its 782,203-seedling target.

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/332482/cebu-province-tops-regions-ngp

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MISS PHILIPPINES LEADS IN MISS UNIVERSE ONLINE VOTING

The Philippines representative to the 2011 Miss Universe pageant Shamcey Supsup has taken the lead in the pageant's online fan voting system by cornering 25.8% of the total number of votes (or some 1,578 votes, according to missosology.org).

On second spot is Puerto Rico’s Viviana Ortiz with 745 votes or 12.2%, followed by St. Lucia, Indonesia and Mexico.

For the first time in the history of the Miss Universe competition, the pageant is incorporating a global fan vote system that will fast-track a contestant to the semi-finals. In last year’s competition, the prestigious pageant also initiated an online survey, however the results did not carry a weight in the judges' choices, as said in the “TV Patrol” report.

Miss Universe 2010 4th Runner up, Maria Venus Raj, who was the Philippines’ candidate, was among the contestants who got the most number of online votes, which revealed her popularity among netizens.

The 2011 Miss Universe's online poll will be open until Sept. 11. Anyone can cast a vote, 10 times a day per e-mail address, as the official result will be revealed during the Miss Universe coronation night on Sept. 12.

ALSO LEADING

In another online voting site initiated by the television network Telemundo, Supsup also took the lead with 1,288,817 votes. Venezuela came to a close second with 1,0671,101, and Nicaragua secured the third spot with 688,234.

HOW TO VOTE

In a statement released in “TV Patrol” on Friday, Supsup extended her sincerest thanks to the Filipino people for their unwavering support.

She said, “Thank you for always praying for me and supporting me. It has been a roller-coaster ride and I’m getting my strength from all the Filipinos who kept on sending me messages on FB and twitter. Thank you. I will be doing my best.”

The 2011 Miss Universe people’s choice online poll will be open until September 11. The overall winner of this online voting event will have an automatic slot on the 2011 Miss Universe pageant’s semi-finals.

Anyone can cast a vote, 10 times a day per e-mail address.

A GLIMPSE OF SHAMCEY SUPSUP

Shamcey Gurrea Supsup (born on May 16, 1986 in General Santos City) is a Filipino beauty titleholder who will represent the Philippines in the Miss Universe 2011 pageant in Sao Paulo, Brazil on September 12, 2011.

Supsup graduated as a Magna Cum Laude from the University of the Philippines-Diliman with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Architecture. She also topped the June 2010 Architecture Licensure Examination in July 2010.[2]

She was crowned Bb. Pilipinas-Universe on April 10, 2011 through the 2011 Binibining Pilipinas pageant and took over the crown from the 2010 winner and Miss Universe 2010 fourth runner-up Venus Raj.

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

SHAMCEY JOINS OPERATION SMILE

One special event of Miss Universe 2011 in Sao Paulo, Brazil is Operation Smile. For this, reigning Miss Universe Ximena Navarrete plus four delegates were selected by the organizers to take part in the same. Miss Philippines Shamcey Supsup, Brazil Priscila Machado, China Luo Zilin, and Venezuela Vanessa Goncalves were chosen as Ambassadors for Operation Smile. Each one of them were asked to relate their thoughts and/or fondness with the organization.

In line with her participation in the Operation Smile’s free surgery mission which helped three people suffering cleft palate, Supsup couldn’t help but indulge in the sense of fulfillment it gave her.

She explained, “You could see them so happy to find their children well and cured. So it was a fulfilling experience. God has really placed me here for a higher purpose that is to help and give hope.”

According to the Official Website of Operation Smile, the charity organization helps in healing children’s smiles around the world. With a presence in around 60 countries, it endeavors to give a better life for the little ones with facial deformities and whose parents cannot afford to have them removed.

I BELIEVE CAMPAIGN: THE SEND-OFF

Filipino beauty queens gave a rousing send-off to the country’s Miss Universe bet, architecture topnotcher Shamcey Supsup, and expressed confidence she would bring home a crown. The Bb. Pilipinas-Universe title holder is leaving Wednesday for training in Colombia before proceeding to Brazil for the big event on Sept. 12.

At the send-off party held on Monday afternoon at the Gateway Suites in Quezon City, Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. vice chair Conchitina Sevilla-Bernardo told the Inquirer: “She’s a beautiful woman and she’ll win the crown.”

Dianne Necio, who will represent the country in the coming Miss International pageant, expressed admiration for Supsup and exclaimed “I believe she will win Miss Universe!” Previous Miss Universe bet Venus Raj also expressed confidence her successor would bring honor to the country and urged Filipinos to give her their full support.

“I am aware that there may still be some people who are skeptical of Shamcey. But let us give her a chance to prove herself,” said Raj, who placed fifth in last year’s pageant. If they only knew Shamcey personally, they would be surprised to see her dramatic improvement. She’s become a formidable contender—spontaneous, beautiful and able to carry herself with poise.”

Raj cited Supsup’s determination to become the best representative of the Philippines in the Miss Universe pageant. “Once she is given a task, she really does her best. Whether it’s for the family, business or school, Shamcey gives her all. And for Miss Universe, she has no other choice but to give her best, and to be the best,” she said.

Second runner up MJ Lastimosa, agreed: “This girl is willing to learn everything. I know that when you want to show your best and do your best, you become the best. You started from scratch, from zero. You didn’t know how to walk, how to pose, how to approach people, the fans. But now, here you are, showing them that you can become the next Miss Universe. And I am so proud of you!” Lastimosa told Supsup, holding back her tears.

The 25-year-old Supsup assured Filipinos she would not fail them. “One of my greatest traits is discipline. I have shown this throughout my education. I have shown that given a responsibility, I will do everything, whatever I can, to be the best.”

Supsup graduated magna cum laude from the University of the Philippines in Diliman, then topped her architecture licensure examination. Supsup will undergo additional pageant training in Bogota, Columbia, before flying to Sao Paulo, Brazil, for the Miss Universe pageant.

MESSAGE FROM SHAMCEY SUPSUP

PROFILE OF THE FILIPINO NETIZENS

Using social networking platforms seem to have overtaken research as far as Filipino online habits are concerned.

According to the 3rd Net Index Study conducted by Yahoo! Inc., social networking (82%) is slightly ahead of research (80%) in the overall engagement of Filipinos on the Internet.

More, social networking is fast becoming the starting point for online experience (39%) as many Filipinos become aware and savvier in reconnecting with family and friends, enhancing existing relationships, and making new friends through online correspondences.

With the growing number of reports on hacking, however, netizens have become more selective and specific about choosing who they want to socialize with, says the study. This said, having the option to “unfriend” someone or report a “poser” is truly boon.

Music makes the world go round even in the virtual world. The 3rd Net Index study reveals that Filipinos go online for leisure and entertainment, particularly international music (68%) and local music (65%). They also turn to cyberspace to view photographs and videos (59%) and play games (55%).

Are email and chat still relevant? Yes, especially since 11% of the population live and work abroad. One-to-one communication platforms such as Yahoo’s Mail and Messenger are still being utilized 64% and 69% of the times, respectively.

Surprisingly, buying items online is still not as popular as in other countries “given the constraints around product authenticity and infrastructure.” According to the report, the level of comprehension of Filipinos for group buying is moderate (32%). However, among those who understand the concept of e-commerce, almost half (48%) show interest in getting stuff online.

The shift from shared to private access continues. Over the past two years, online browsing through Internet cafes declined from 71% to 66% while home Internet increased from 31% to 35% (thanks no doubt to the friendlier rates of domestic broadband connection).

Mobile Internet, which, in 2009, was virtually unheard of, is down to 4% from 5% in 2010. The research shows that 10-29 year old demographic remains the core audience group driving the Internet adoption in the Philippines.

Country Ambassador and Sales Director of Yahoo! Philippines Arlene Amarante underlines the importance of the study. “Net Index provides in-depth consumer insights that help marketers as well as Yahoo! to craft meaningful strategies, engage with consumers and drive real results,” she said.

The Yahoo! Net Index study was conducted in conjunction with market research group Nielsen.

NATIONAL HEROES DAY 2011

National Heroes Day allows us to remember the patriotism of our heroes, whose selflessness makes them fitting role models worthy of esteem, reverence and gratitude. Through their ideals, we are able to follow the straight path towards true freedom and sustainable progress.

This year’s theme is “Bayani ng Bayan: Gabay ni Juan sa Matuwid na Daan” (Our Heroes: Our Guides Along the Straight and Righteous Path).

HERO

There's a hero
If you look inside your heart
You don't have to be afraid
Of what you are
There's an answer
If you reach into your sould
And the sorrow that you know
Will melt away

And then a hero comes along
With the strength to carry on
And you cast your fears aside
And you know you can survive
So when you feel like hope is gone
Look inside you and be strong
And you'll finally see the truth
That a hero lies in you

It's a long road
When you face the world alone
No one reaches out a hand
For you to hold
You can find love
If you search within yourself
And the emptiness you felt
Will disappear

Lord knows
Dreams are hard to follow
But don't let anyone
Tear them away
Hold on, there will be tomorrow
In time, you'll find the way

A NOTE TO THE SONG "HERO"

"Hero" is a song by American singer-songwriter Mariah Carey. It was released on October 19, 1993 by Columbia Records as the second single from Carey's third studio album, Music Box (1993).

Originally intended for Gloria Estefan, the song was written and produced by Carey and Walter Afanasieff. While writing the song, Carey did not connect to its style or sound, therefore forfeiting it over to the soundtrack of the film of the same name.

However, after being convinced to keep it, she personalized it, giving it a more pop and R&B melody, as well as changing some of the lyrics to more precisely fit her personality.

Lyrically, the song is regarded as one of Carey's most inspirational and personal ballads, with its protagonist declaring that even though we may feel discouraged or down at times, in reality we are "heroes" if we look inside ourselves and see our own inner strength; in time, it will help us "find the way".

Aside from its lyrics, "Hero" derived its hook and sound from several musical instruments such as the guitar, piano and organ. The song experienced strong success in several international markets, and also became Carey's eighth chart topper on the Billboard Hot 100. Additionally, it was ranked at number eleven on the Billboard Year-End Chart, and number fifty-three on the Decade-End Chart.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hero_(Mariah_Carey_song)

ALALAHANIN, GUNITAIN!

AUSTERITY MEASURE

No more grand and costly mass oath-taking rites for new nurses beginning this year.

Saying that they empathized with Filipino families having to cope with the hard times, especially the middle-income class to which the majority of nurses belong, the Board of Nursing of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced it was scrapping the usual mass oath-taking ceremonies for newly registered nurses.

The oath-taking, which is required under the law, will instead be marked by simple rites, either individually or by group upon registration for nurse licenses with the PRC, according to PRC Chair Teresita Manzala.

This announcement was made on Sunday by the Department of Labor and Employment following a report from Manzala that the decision would also spare the government from “unnecessary” expenses.

In an official communication to Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, Manzala withdrew the PRC’s request for the usual inspirational and congratulatory message, which would have been published in a souvenir program for the oath-taking of nurses who passed the July 2011 licensure exam.

The Board of Nursing, a regulatory body for nursing professionals under the PRC, cited the current socio-economic conditions endured by many families of newly registered nurses.

At least 37,513 examinees made the cut out of the 78,135 who took the exam in early July. The names of the board passers can still be accessed through the website, www.prc.gov.ph.

Doing away with the traditional mass oath-taking ceremonies was also in response to the Aquino administration’s call for prudent budget management, said Manzala.
Baldoz in a statement on Sunday hailed the board’s decision, saying that “it sets a fine example to other government agencies to be practical in areas where effective and efficient fund management are necessary.”

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LESTER!

WE THANK YOU, LORD

We thank You, Lord,
and worship You with gladness;
We praise Your Name
and lift our hearts in song;
For You are good,
Your love endures forever,
Your faithfulness
continues all day long.

You’ve lavished us
with every spiritual blessing;
We thank You, Lord,
and praise You now in song.
We thank You, Lord,
for everyday provisions,
For daily food,
for clothes and shelter too,
For health and strength
and grace for every trial,
For this free land
where we can worship You.
You crown each day
with Your abundant goodness;
We thank You, Lord,
and lift our praise to You.

We thank You, Lord,
for giving us salvation.
You sent Your Son
that we might be forgiv’n.
Far as the east from west,
our sins have vanished;
Now justified,
we’re citizens of Heav’n.
You’ve sealed us
with Your promised Holy Spirit;
We thank You, Lord,
for love so freely giv’n!

We thank You, Lord,
for giving us the Bible
To guide our steps,
if we’ll but hear and read,
And for Your Church,
a worldwide living body,
That gives sweet fellowship
and meets our need.
We are encouraged,
and we worship gladly;
We thank You, Lord,
You’ve made us rich indeed!

DOH TO HIRE 10,000 NURSES FOR RURAL COMMUNITY SERVICE

Health Secretary Enrique Ona announced on Friday government plans to hire another batch of 10,000 nurses willing to serve poor rural communities for a year.

When the Registered Nurses for Health Enhancement and Local Service (RN HEALS) program was first run early this year, each nurse hired got a monthly allowance of P8,000 from the Department of Health (DOH). Local government units involved pitched in P2,000 more for each nurse deployed to their area.

The second corps of RN HEALS nurses is about 27 percent of the 37,513 nursing graduates who recently passed the professional licensure exams.

Jomel Garcia Lapides, the topnotcher in the latest batch of successful examinees said he wants to work in the country instead of seeking employment overseas, GMA News’ Balatanghali newscast reported.

Lapides is a graduate of the University of the Philippines-Manila.

http://ph.news.yahoo.com/doh-hire-10-000-nurses-rural-community-170938965.html

RN HEALS PROGRAM

RN HEALS, which stands for Registered Nurses for Health Enhancement And Local Service, aims to address the surplus in inexperienced nurses, promote health of the people and bring the government closer to them. The project will deploy nurses in rural and underserved communities for a period of one year.

Nurses under this project will undergo learning and development in accordance with the roles and functions required by this project. A certificate of competency and employment will be given to those who have satisfactorily completed their engagement with the project. While on deployment, nurses will be given an allowance to cover for their meals, transportation and other incidental expenses.

Competencies gained by the nurses upon completion of the training cum deployment project shall cover both clinical and public health. An allowance of Php 8,000 per month will be given to RN Heals qualified nurses.

Unemployed registered nurses who are physically and mentally fit and willing to serve in their hometowns and who meet the following requirements may qualify for the training cum deployment under RNheals: With valid nurse license issued by the PRC, Resident of the identified CCT area/s, Medical certificate issued by government hospital stating that the applicant is fit to work. NARS Project drop-outs will not be considered.

WATCH UC WEBMASTERS VERSUS UV TODAY

The match-up that the Cebu basketball scene has been waiting for will finally come to fruition today as the reigning champions, University of Cebu Webmasters take on their bitter rivals, University of the Visayas Green Lancers in round one of two expected meetings between the two hoops powerhouses, in the seniors division of the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (CESAFI) basketball tournament at the Cebu Coliseum.

The Webmasters stoked the embers of the fire further last year as they stopped the nine-year dynasty of the Lancers dead in its tracks by winning the best-of-five finals series, 3-1.

However, the Lancers, under the tutelage of new head coach Felix Belano, gained some measure of revenge against their arch-rivals early this year as they swept the Webmasters, 3-0, in the finals series of the Cesafi Partner’s Cup.

Fast forward to this season and the two teams are once again ahead in the standings with UC being the lone undefeated squad in the tournament. UC is currently at the top of the league with an unblemished 3-0 (win-loss) record, spiked by their impressive, 76-72, win over Southwestern University (SWU) last Thursday. UV, in the meantime, is at 3-1 and is coming off a disheartening loss to the same Cobras.

UC’s prized 6-foot-10 slotman Junemar Fajardo, will once again be the center of attention as he carries the scoring cudgels of the Webmasters. However, he is expected to meet some stiff opposition from the Lancer big men, Edrian Lao and Andrew Avillanoza, in particular.

The battle of the guards will just be as intriguing with UC being led by former UV Baby Lancer, Brian Heruela, Luigi Bercede and Robinson Mohammad. UV will be spearheaded by crafty veterans John Abad, Harold Cincoflores and Phil Mercader.

PITONG PINOY PROJECT

When Yahoo Philippines started the 'Pitong Pinoy' project, Yahoo thought it would be hard to find seven Filipinos who have made a remarkable difference.

After all, it's not everyday that you run into people who could actually devote their entire life to serving others or champion advocacies that are seemingly hard to accomplish.

But Yahoo Philippines gathered an overwhelming number of nominations—from loving parents, courageous law enforcers, devoted health workers, brilliant artists, magnanimous celebrities, exemplary athletes, astute youth leaders, inspirational public servants, to simple folk who have touched others with their kindness.

"Believe us, it was a tough job to choose seven amazing Pinoys. Nonetheless, it is heartwarming to read stories of change, volunteerism, and selflessness."

PITONG PINOY AWARDEE: ALEXIS BELONIO

Filipino scientists don't exactly get a lot of publicity in this country—but this hasn't stopped Alexis Belonio, a prizewinning Filipino inventor, from paying it forward.

Belonio was the first Filipino to receive the Rolex Award for Enterprise in 2008 for his creation of a low-cost, environment friendly rice husk gas stove. The Rolex Awards recognize pioneering projects all over the world that demonstrate innovation and contribute to the betterment of mankind. Belonio's award-winning gas stove converts rice husks, one of Asia's most abundant farm wastes, into combustible fuel for domestic cooking.

Belonio, who also works as a researcher at the International Rice Research Institute and as an associate professor of agricultural engineering at Central Philippine University, said that he was motivated by the plight of poor farmers in the Philippines faced with the high cost of fuel for cooking.

His innovative invention does not only address the problem on rice husk disposal, it can also serve as an alternative for charcoal stoves with relatively shorter cooking time and lower investment cost.

"Ang nakikita ni Alexis na katuparan ng kaniyang ginawa ay kung ito ay gagamitin na nang malawakan dahil makakatipid ang Pilipinas at masi-save ang environment. Iyon ang mas priority na incentive ni Belonio—ang makapag-serve siya (Alexis wants what he created to be used by many people, so the whole country can save on costs, as well as save the environment. That's Alexis' priority, that's what he considers his incentive—to be able to serve," said Antonio Co, Belonio's colleague who regularly uses the rice husk stove.

PITONG PINOY AWARDEE: JEAN ENRIQUEZ

Jean Enriquez fights for the victims of human trafficking. "Since I was 13, I've been a human rights activist," she revealed.

According to Enriquez, there are so many areas in the Philippines where human trafficking happens. She notes that they found a significant number of cases in Western and Southern Mindanao. She said, "It's a very profound problem."

Enriquez currently heads the Coalition Against Trafficking in Women — Asia Pacific. Jean Enriquez says that the group is a worldwide organization that "fights all kinds of sexual abuse on women from rape, to pornography, to trafficking (and) to prostitution."

Jean said the group also lobbies for the government to change laws for the protection of women.

As for the victims of human trafficking, Enriquez hopes that they will find their "voice" and that they find it in themselves to recover from their horrible experience.

PITONG PINOY AWARDEE: JAY JABONETA

Who would ever think that a simple status message can forever change a community?

That's exactly what happened when online-savvy Jay Jaboneta posted as a Facebook status message the ordeal of hundreds of students in Zamboanga who were forced to cross the river every single day just to be able to get to school.

Through his simple status update, Jaboneta raised funds more than enough for a single boat that would safely transport children to their schools.

Jaboneta's initiative also awakened the bayanihan spirit in the sleepy town of Layag-Layag as people worked on the boats from scratch.

Now, Jaboneta's simple status message has turned into a widespread advocacy and is starting to reach other parts of the country.

Jaboneta has proven that someone who's really willing to help need not launch a huge campaign: all it took him was a single, heartfelt Facebook update.

PITONG PINOY AWARDEE: TOMAS LEONOR

Tomas Leonor literally helps people one step at a time.

He is the organizer of "StepJuan," a walking expedition where he travels along the various provinces in the Philippines on foot. This is how he promotes awareness about cancer, as well as and also raises funds for children with cancer.

"We are all volunteers believing in one cause which is to save children from cancer," he said.

Leonor revealed that last year, they are able to raise 1.5 million pesos by walking along Luzon. For this year, they have already raised 500,000 pesos for the cancer patients.

All in all, Leonor has walked 1,241.5 kilometers in seven islands and ten provinces in the Philippines. But he is not resting yet as up next on his agenda is the Mindanao leg of "StepJuan."

Leonor is more than determined to walk in any corner of the Philippines because he knows the prayers of the cancer patients and their parents are with him.

PITONG PINOY AWARDEE: HEIDI MENDOZA

Heidi Mendoza is one of graft and corruption's biggest opponents.

However, one will be surprised to know that this whistleblower doesn't really want attention.

Mendoza first joined the Commission on Audit (COA) in March 16, 1984. She joined the agency because she has always wanted to serve the government. Back then, it wasn't easy for her, as her father wanted her to work in her province in Lucena. Still, Mendoza was determined to go to Manila and work for COA.

At that time, she started with an auditing team in COA. Then, she was assigned to the Performance Audit Office running through the accounts of various government agencies.

"We only fight corruption if it hits our interest. Some businesses would only want to talk about corruption when the economy is bad and it's hitting their business," she said.

Her biggest battle was when she exposed the corruption activities of some of the officers in the Armed Forces of the Philippines. A lot of Filipinos admired her courage for risking her life in order to tell the truth.

Now, Mendoza is back on the Commission on Audit as a commissioner. In spite of everything that happened, Mendoza said she is still very hopeful for the nation. She encourages other government officials to "go beyond what is expected" of them in the name of public service.

As for running for a Senate position this coming election, Mendoza has vetoed the idea. "I am not crafted for public attention," she said simply.

But with all the good things that she has done, she may have to get used to all the admiration.

PITONG PINOY AWARDEE: ANNA OPOSA

A lot of people claim to care for the environment but how many actually go out of their way to protect it? Meet Anna Oposa, the director of the Law of Nature Foundation. She's an example of someone who has proven her love for Mother Earth by vigorously working to protect marine life.

She initiated "Save the Philippine Seas," spurred by recent reports of massive coral reef destruction in several parts of the country. Her initiatives sparked a social networking campaign which united Filipinos through a national blog day to save the Philippine seas. She is also lobbying to strengthen environmental protection laws, a long-term goal that she is passionate about.

"I feel the need to fight for the environment because I'm Filipino," she says. "I don't think what I'm doing is extraordinary. I don't think it's heroic. I just think I'm doing my duty living in a country with so many natural resources. I grew up with all of these and when you have a deep appreciation of the things around you, you'll want to protect them."

Many are astounded by Oposa's passion and drive, which go well beyond her 23 years. "People always write to me asking what they can do, what NGOs they can apply for," she says. "This is probably disappointing for them, but I always say you've got to start with yourself; improvement begins with 'I'."

She offers some tips for those who want to do more for the country. "First learn about [the Philippines]. I really believe if you first learn how blessed we are and how rich our natural resources are, you would be inspired and motivated to take better care of it. From there, you start with yourself. I know it sounds like a cliche, but it's a cliche for a reason. You start by managing your wastes properly and talking to people about it, writing about it, if you're a moviemaker then make films. Use your own skills and see how that connects and from there start volunteering for programs and tell people about it."

Simple words from someone out to do extraordinary things.

PITONG PINOY AWARDEE: TZARINA SANIEL

In an era where an e-book is a click away and when the internet has almost unlimited content, Tzarina Saniel sticks to the old. And we mean, old.

Saniel not only collects books and advocates reading—she has taken the initiative to collect old manuscripts as her way of safeguarding Filipino literary treasures.

She believes that in the old books' glorious pages, Filipinos will realize their roots and this will eventually lead them to become better Pinoys.

"Unless we learn from history we will never be able to move on," Saniel said.

A teacher by profession, Saniel also helps curb the mind of a generation apparently bereft of appreciation for history.

Her love for Philippine history and her passion to keep the lessons of the past alive in today's generation definitely makes her deserving of being a modern-day Pinoy hero.

WEATHER UPDATE

STEVE JOBS OF APPLE HAS RESIGNED

Apple CEO Steve Jobs has resigned and will be replaced by former Chief Operating Officer Tim Cook, the company said late Wednesday. Jobs will stay on as Apple's chairman.

Apple made no mention of Jobs' health in its statement about the change, but Jobs alluded to it in the letter of resignation he sent to Apple's board on Wednesday and later released publicly.

"I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple's CEO, I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come," wrote Jobs, who has been on medical leave since January. Cook has been filling in as the company's leader.

Apple's board took pains to praise Jobs, who led a historic turnaround for the once-ailing company. Apple shares were briefly halted in after-hours trading as Apple announced its leadership change. When trading resumed, shares dropped 5%.

"Steve's extraordinary vision and leadership saved Apple and guided it to its position as the world's most innovative and valuable technology company," board member Art Levinson said.

"In his new role as chairman of the board, Steve will continue to serve Apple with his unique insights, creativity and inspiration."

http://money.cnn.com/2011/08/24/technology/steve_jobs_resigns/index.htm?cnn=yes&hpt=hp_t1

NEWS ABOUT STEVE JOBS' RESIGNATION

THE RESIGNATION LETTER

Steve Jobs stepped down as Apple CEO on Wednesday. Here is his resignation letter. To the Apple Board of Directors and the Apple Community:

I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple's CEO, I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come.

I hereby resign as CEO of Apple. I would like to serve, if the Board sees fit, as Chairman of the Board, director and Apple employee.

As far as my successor goes, I strongly recommend that we execute our succession plan and name Tim Cook as CEO of Apple.

I believe Apple's brightest and most innovative days are ahead of it. And I look forward to watching and contributing to its success in a new role.

I have made some of the best friends of my life at Apple, and I thank you all for the many years of being able to work alongside you.

FAST FACTS

STEVE JOBS BRIEF BIOGRAPHY

Steven Paul "Steve" Jobs (born February 24, 1955) is an American business magnate and inventor. He is co-founder, chairman of the board, and former chief executive officer of Apple Inc. Jobs also previously served as chief executive of Pixar Animation Studios; he became a member of the board of directors of The Walt Disney Company in 2006, following the acquisition of Pixar by Disney. He was credited in the 1995 movie Toy Story as an executive producer.

In the late 1970s, Jobs, with Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, Mike Markkula, and others, designed, developed, and marketed one of the first commercially successful lines of personal computers, the Apple II series. In the early 1980s, Jobs was among the first to see the commercial potential of the mouse-driven graphical user interface which led to the creation of the Macintosh.

After losing a power struggle with the board of directors in 1984, Jobs resigned from Apple and founded NeXT, a computer platform development company specializing in the higher education and business markets. Apple's subsequent 1996 buyout of NeXT brought Jobs back to the company he co-founded, and he served as its CEO from 1997 until 2011.

In 1986, he acquired the computer graphics division of Lucasfilm Ltd which was spun off as Pixar Animation Studios. He remained CEO and majority shareholder at 50.1% until its acquisition by The Walt Disney company in 2006. Consequently Jobs became Disney's largest individual shareholder at 7% and a member of Disney's Board of Directors.

Jobs' history in business has contributed much to the symbolic image of the idiosyncratic, individualistic Silicon Valley entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of design and understanding the crucial role aesthetics play in public appeal. His work driving forward the development of products that are both functional and elegant has earned him a devoted following.

On August 24, 2011, Jobs announced his resignation from his role as Apple's CEO to Apple's board of directors. In his letter of resignation, Jobs strongly recommended that Tim Cook be named as his successor. Per his request, Jobs was appointed chairman of Apple's board of directors.

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

STEVE JOBS DOCUMENTARY: Part 1

STEVE JOBS DOCUMENTARY: Part 2

STEVE JOBS DOCUMENTARY: Part 3

STEVE JOBS DOCUMENTARY: Part 4

BE INSPIRED BY STEVE JOBS

Drawing from some of the most pivotal points in his life, Steve Jobs, chief executive officer and co-founder of Apple Computer and of Pixar Animation Studios, urged graduates to pursue their dreams and see the opportunities in life's setbacks—including death itself—at the university's 114th Commencement on Sunday in Stanford Stadium.

Wearing jeans and sandals under his black robe, Jobs delivered a keynote address that spanned his adoption at birth to his insights into mortality after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer about a year ago. In plainspoken terms, his address struck a balance between the obstacles he has encountered during his notably public life and the lessons he has gleaned—for example, from his high-profile ousting in 1985 from the computer company he helped start.

Stanford University President Hennessy said Jobs embodied the university's spirit, its "willingness to be bold and strike out in new directions." Hennessy also touched on Jobs' reputation as an innovator, a visionary and an advocate for education who developed partnerships during Apple's earliest days to get computers into schools and communities.

INSPIRING MESSAGE DELIVERED BY STEVE JOBS

THE MANUSCRIPT OF HIS SPEECH

QUOTABLE QUOTES

Again, you can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something.

I had been rejected, but I was still in love.
And so I decided to start over.

Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don't lose faith. I'm convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You've got to find what you love.

Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking.
Don't settle.

"If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?" And whenever the answer has been "No" for too many days in a row, I know
I need to change something.

No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don't want to die to get there. And yet death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it.

Death is very likely the single best invention of Life. It is Life's change agent. It clears out the old to make way for the new. Right now the new is you, but someday not too long from now, you will gradually become the old
and be cleared away.

Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people's thinking.

Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart.

FROM TV5

UC Nursing CESDEV received a Certificate of Appreciation for having joined in the Medical Mission during the Grand Station Launch of TV5 Cebu last June 25. The activity was actively participated by around 28 volunteers.

The medical mission was spearheaded by TV5’s public service oriented show, Alagang Kapatid, which airs every Saturday 6AM, and Sunday 7AM, hosted by the veteran newscaster Ms. Cheryl Cosim.

The Medical Mission coincided with the different program launch and showcase held by the network’s home-grown personalities and talents.

To all CESDEV-Nursing volunteers who joined this activity, please visit CESDEV office for your individual Certificate of Appreciation. Thank you so much for the great help and we are looking forward for more productive and meaningful activities with you.

THEY VOLUNTEERED FOR TV5 MEDICAL MISSION

Joshua Herbert Buaya, RN
Don Jade Canama, RN
Clauven Navallo, RN
Dawn Michor Daan, RN
Michael Gil R. Montaño, RN
Jude Mathew Dela Cruz, RN
Arniel Aranas, RN
Marcelo Aguilar
Junry Aranas
Lorenzo Manuel Sintos
Jazel Anne Cañete
Anna Rose Cadilig
Sweetsie Avdhs Baltazar
Lester L. Cafe
Mark Yve Cañalita
Karla Mariz Ariar
Miriam Arequez
Neil Francis Sanchez
Georgina Cabudbud
Deborah Mae Pacabis
Lizbeth Marie Vidal
Zari Louise Angelique Lamban
Aryl Zipporah Pilapil
Guivenchy Daianne Abundo
Nikki Rivera
Junard Roa
Dianne S. Salem
Ronaldo O. Quitco, RN, RM

TV5 NEWS

News5 (formerly ABC News and Public Affairs and TV5 News and Public Affairs) is the network's News and Information programming block of programs aimed at reporting with militancy for change and action since April 2010.

It is also the first local news department to report via Live-Pack in contrast to the OB Vans used by its competitors; the use of a visual news set; the first news FM station known as Radyo5 92.3 News FM and the first 24-hour Filipino language free TV news channel known as AksyonTV.

News5 is headed by broadcast journalists Luchi Cruz-Valdez, David Jude Sta. Ana (News Operations) and Patrick Paez (News Production).

SABAY-SABAY SA PAGBABAGO

Tingnan mo at kaya natin
Mag sama-samang marating
Tumalon kasabay ng hangin
Sabay-sabay liparin

Tingnan mo at kayang gawin
Sama-samang abutin
Bundok man ang humarang sa 'tin
Sabay-sabay akyatin

Sabay-sabay uusbong ang pagbabago
Lalago sa sigla ng 'yong puso
Sabay-sabay itaas ang pangako
Mabubuhay, mabubuo sa palad mo

Sabay-sabay! Sabay-sabay! Sabay-sabay!
Sabay-sabay! Sabay-sabay! Sabay-sabay!

Talikuran, iwanan ang dating sanhi
Abangan, salubungin ang umagang parating
Kumilos, tumulong, sumulong, sumali
Magtanim ng pag-asa, pag-unlad ang paraan

Ikaw, ako, tayong lahat
Kapit kamay dumarami
Magkasamang sisigaw
Mga boses 'di mahawi

Sabay-sabay uusbong ang pagbabago
Lalago sa sigla ng 'yong puso
Sabay-sabay itaas ang pangako
Mabubuhay, mabubuo sa palad mo

Sabay-sabay! Sabay-sabay! Sabay-sabay!
Sabay-sabay! Sabay-sabay! Sabay-sabay!

NEWS5 CHANNEL THEME

TV5 GOES INTERNATIONAL

After making waves in Philippine broadcasting and expanding its reach to key cities all over the country, TV5 takes another giant leap forward by launching two international channels that will give Filipinos overseas access to the network’s most popular programs.

The two new channels – Kapatid TV5 and Aksyon TV International – are being run by the network’s affiliate company Pilipinas Global Network, Ltd. (PGN Ltd.), a British Virgin Islands company which is 60% owned by PLDT and 40% owned by ABC Development Corporation. These will initially be made available to television viewers in the Middle East, North Africa and Europe.

“Our vision is to build a global community of subscribers who wish to remain connected with their Filipino roots. We shall provide our global Kapatids a bundle of services that will bring them even closer to their loved ones back home,” said Claro P. Carmelo Ramirez, President of PGN, Ltd.

Kapatid TV5 carries most of TV5’s flagship programs such as Face to Face, Wil Time Bigtime, Babaeng Hampaslupa, Juicy, Paparazzi, Talentadong Pinoy, Wow Mali, R U Kidding Me?, Sugo Mga Kapatid, Bagets, Iskul Bukol, among others.

Meanwhile, the Aksyon TV International is a news, information, public service and sports channel that will air News5 programs Aksyon, Aksyon Journalismo, Andar ng mga Balita, Tutok Tulfo, Wanted, Dokumentado, USI, Public Atorni, Alagang Kapatid, Cristy Ferminute, Duelo, Kalibre 41, plus other TV5 news and public affairs programs. It will also carry local sports programs from AKTV (TV5’s primetime sports block on IBC-13).

Aside from these two channels, PGN Ltd. is also exclusively responsible for the syndication business which aims to distribute TV5’s programs to other broadcasters and channels in the various continents; both for Filipino and non-Filipino viewers.

Pilipinas Global Network, Ltd. also announced its entry into the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa through its partner, Orbit Showtime Network (OSN), a subscription television service in these territories which broadcasts channels in Arabic, English, and Filipino languages.

OSN was founded through a merger between Orbit Communications Company and Showtime Arabia. Its headquarters is located in Dubai Media City in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. OSN is the ultimate destination for the widest choice of brand new premium entertainment in these regions.

“We are very happy to welcome Kapatid TV5 and Aksyon TV International to the OSN platform,” said David Butorac, CEO of OSN. “The entry of these 2 premium Filipino channels further cements our drive to provide the best Philippine news and entertainment to our Filipino subscribers in the Middle East, North Africa and Europe."

SA PILING NG WALA: SILONG

Many Filipinos from the provinces flock to Manila to pursue their dreams. They see Manila as a place of abundance, where basic needs like water, food, electricity and shelter are within reach.

In fact, in different corners of the metro, many of our kababayans have found these basic needs for “free." Food from leftovers in garbage areas, water leaking from public water pumps and electricity from lamp posts.

This has been the outcome of the “Great Manila Dream" for thousands of homeless Filipinos living in the streets of Manila. Every available street corner, they call shelter. Any place with shade they call home.

From the old streets of Escolta, Manila to the dark avenues of Quezon City, follow Kara David in a three day immersion with the homeless. Watch her live the life of Maricel Regala, a mother of three and homeless for seven years, from food gathering, bathing in public and sleeping in cold pavements.

Find out in “Silong" the truth behind the adage “true lessons in life are found in the streets".

SILONG: Part 1

SILONG: Part 2

SILONG: Part 3

SILONG: Part 4

SHELTER: DEFINED

(n.) One who protects; a guardian; a defender.

(n.) The state of being covered and protected; protection; security.

(v. t.) To screen or cover from notice; to disguise.

(n.) That which covers or defends from injury or annoyance; a protection; a screen.

(v. t.) To betake to cover, or to a safe place; -- used reflexively.

(v. t.) To be a shelter for; to provide with a shelter; to cover from injury or annoyance; to shield; to protect.

(v. i.) To take shelter.

FOR YOUR GUIDANCE

In your Nursing Ethics and Professional Adjustment/Jursiprudence Lessons your school should have taught you that THERE ARE 3-FOLD REQUIREMENTS TO BE A PROFESSIONAL/RN IN THE PHILIPPINES:

1. Apply, take and PASS your Nurse Licensure Examination;
2. Take your Oath of Professional (individually or in group); and
3. Register from your Professional License.

You have satisfied only no. 1 and you will need to satisfy the 2nd and 3rd requirement by adhering to the schedules to be set by PRC so keep yourselves posted in the PRC Website.

The BON has DONE AWAY with the traditionally MASS OATHTAKING in order to respond to current "economic difficulties" faced by "most" your families (cost-saving measures) and current job-scarcity among nurses.

SIMPLIFYING the oathtaking is a must at this time. So YOU MAY TAKE YOUR OATH AT THE SAME TIME OF REGISTRATION with PRC.

BON WEBSITE WILL SOON "SIGN OUT"

ARTICLE VIII OF RA 9173

Section 35 – Prohibitions in the Practice of Nursing.

A fine of not less than Fifty thousand pesos (P50,000.00) not more than One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) or imprisonment of not less than one (1) year nor more than six (6) years, or both, on the discretion of the court, shall be imposed upon To any persons practicing nursing in the Philippines:

Without a certificate of registration/professional license and professional identification card or special temporary permit or without having been declared exempt from examination

Uses as his own certificate of registration/professional license and professional identification card or special temporary permit of another person

If the person uses an invalid certificate of registration/professional license, a suspended or revoked certificate of registration/professional license, or an expired or canceled special/temporary permit

If the person gives any false evidence to the Board in order to obtain a certificate of registration/professional license, a professional identification card or special permit

Falsely poses or advertises as a registered and licensed nurse or uses any other means that tend to convey the impression that he is a registered and licensed nurse

Appends B.S.N./R.N. (Bachelor of Science in Nursing/Registered Nurse) or any similar appendage to his name without having been conferred said degree or registration

As a registered and licensed nurse, abets or assists the illegal practice of a person who is not lawfully qualified to practice nursing

Any person or the chief executive officer of a judicial entity who undertakes in-service educational programs or who conducts review classes for both local and foreign examination without permit/clearance from the Board and the Commission

A person or employer of nurses who violates the minimum base pay of nurses and the incentives and benefits that should be accorded them as specified in Sections 32 and 34

A person or the chief executive officer of a juridical entity violating any provision of this Act and its rules and regulations.

DREAM BIG

'Coz if you don't dream big,
what's the use of dreaming ?

If you don't have faith,
there's nothing worth believing.

It takes one look to make
the stars worth reaching for.

So reach out for
something more!

VERIFICATION OF RATING

The Professional Regulations Commission has provided in their website a mechanism for those who took the Philippine Nurses Licensure Examination (PNLE) to get their ratings online.

As shown above, the site requires some very important fields to be filled up properly so that only those who really have the correct information can retrieve or gather confidential personal information such as ratings in the PNLE.

If you want to avail of this service, click the image on this post or click HERE.

1. Please make sure that you type in the CORRECT format or it will not return any record.
2. For Certificate of Passing / Rating, you may proceed to the Records and Management Division of PRC, Ground floor, PRC Annex Building.
3. Pursuant to Commission policy, the result is final. There is no re-checking or reconsideration.

NEWS ABOUT NURSES

SUPPORT HOUSE BILL 4900

Nursing graduates will soon be allowed to undergo on–the-job training without paying the regular fees being charged by most of the hospitals in the country.

House Bill 4900, authored by Rep. Salvio Fortuno (5th District, Camarines Sur), prohibits private and public administrators from collecting fees from nursing apprentices who will undergo training at their hospitals.

Fortuno said under the bill, the "Pay for Training" scheme being implemented by most of the hospitals in the country will be considered a criminal act punishable by one year imprisonment and a fine of not more than P200,000.

According to Fortuno, nursing apprentices are required to pay the hospitals for 6 months training by as much as P20,000 and are not assured of any job in any medical institutions. "Since no hospitals will hire them, nursing graduates instead land in call centers and other jobs not related to their profession," Fortuno said.

"Nursing apprentices are forced to pay for the required training. Even the government hospitals are demanding fees for the training," Fortuno declared.

Fortuno said the practice could be considered an exploitation of the highest order. These hospitals will no longer hire registered nurses because the nursing apprentices are doing the job, Fortuno said.

Under the bill, nursing graduates who passed and obtained licenses from the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) will undergo a 6-month on-the-job free of charge training in any government or private hospitals or medical centers.

The bill provides that a nurse will not be allowed to leave for employment abroad unless the prescribed training has been completed as certified by the hospital or medical center concerned.

Fortuno said due to lack of employment opportunities in the country many nurses are compelled to seek a better future for themselves and their families.

"Many Filipino nurses are accepting lower medical jobs abroad due to declining demands in the United States and in the United Kingdom. The nurses and their families have made huge financial sacrifices and yet they are in the losing end," Fortuno said.

Fortuno said the objective of the bill is to criminalize the practice of demanding fees from nursing apprentices while they are in on-the-job training at hospitals.

REMEMBERING NINOY

AUGUST TWENTY-ONE MOVEMENT (ATOM)

It has been 28 years since the death of Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. on the tarmac of the then Manila International Airport, now named after him.

Now that his son, Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” Aquino III, is the President of the country, Filipinos still do not forget the heroism of Ninoy. Back then, there was one people’s movement which has been instrumental to the 1986 People Power Revolution.

The August Twenty-One Movement (ATOM) started after the death Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. on August 21, 1983. “The fight was dangerous at that time. We were subjected to tear gas, dispersal operations,” Padilla said. “ATOM spearheaded the silent majority.”

Padilla called the ATOM the “yellow force,” saying that the movement was the centrist as it was not part of the extreme right or the extreme left. “We had a peaceful, non-violent struggle,” he said. “The assassination of Ninoy made us thinking that if it could happen to Ninoy, it could happen to any of us,” he added.

“It’s a very small core group pero andaming support [but there was a lot of support] – we saw it when we were facing hardships,” he said. “The support was very, very strong and when we call for mass action, everybody comes.”

“ATOM has the church and academe support, as well as the support of business leaders, and the credibility of ATOM was very high, they are respected members of society,” he said.

Padilla said among the prominent members of the ATOM include former Sen. Agapito “Butz” Aquino, who is the founding member of ATOM; Vice President Jejomar Binay, who was the legal counsel of ATOM; and PR man Aurelio “Reli” German.

STAND UP AND BE A LEADER

HEART TO HEART TALK WITH NINOY

THE ASSASINATION OF BENIGNO "NINOY" AQUINO JR.

A documentary on the still-unsolved 28-year-old murder that prompted Filipinos to take to the streets to oust a dictator in the People Power Revolution of 1986.

The mystery surrounding the unsolved murder of Sen. Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino gets a more in-depth look courtesy of The History Channel's feature documentary written by award-winning broadcast journalist Ed Lingao and based partly on special reports on the Aquino assassination published in the Philippine Daily Inquirer in 1995 and 2008.

The documentary is a thoughtful combination of research, interviews, visuals, computer-generated images and a vivid reenactment of selected scenes directed by filmmaker Mike Alcazaren.

It features footage and photos from the Aquino family's personal collection and the crowd of Filipinos who waited to welcome Aquino during his homecoming on August 21, 1983. Some of the images shown have never been shown on television...until now!

THE ASSASINATION OF BENIGNO "NINOY" AQUINO JR.: Part 1

THE ASSASINATION OF BENIGNO "NINOY" AQUINO JR.: Part 2

THE ASSASINATION OF BENIGNO "NINOY" AQUINO JR.: Part 3

THE ASSASINATION OF BENIGNO "NINOY" AQUINO JR.: Part 4

THE ASSASINATION OF BENIGNO "NINOY" AQUINO JR.: Part 5

THE ASSASINATION OF BENIGNO "NINOY" AQUINO JR.: Part 6

A POEM FOR NINOY

Night and Day we feel the ambiance

In the search of truth all thy years

No one will tell the real tale

Obvious yet outrageous to All

Yet all are pointless in the real court

Activist shouts to their imaginations

Quest for reality is perpetual duty

Unless nothing has surfaced out

Indignity is untold to many offspring

Needless to say its vivacious

Old politics was there motive

Oh!... Almighty God We appeal to thee

Until man is human, the same old story

Righteous individual has all the woes

Hindrance to humility in their testimony

Edge of law had always shown

Ring thy bell to good Samaritans

Obedient Filipinos are worth dying for….