Filipino Catholics will again show their deep participation in World Youth Day when the annual grand massive crusade takes place from Saturday, January 18 to Monday, January 20.
The “grand massive crusade” which commemorates the weekend Feast of the Santo Niño de Cebú, is the highlight of the annual World Youth Day celebrations.
The program will start at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Saturday at 3:30 p.m.
A similar gathering will also be held in other parts of the country.
“More and more places are also holding it. For example in Nueva Ecija, it’s no longer just one parish that will observe, the cathedral in San Jose said they will also join,” Father Douglas Badong, parochial vicar of Quiapo Church, said in an interview.
“Some hold it the same time with us while others do it within the day,” he added.
Other areas that will also hold a gathering are Laoag, Vigan, La Union, Alaminos, Dagupan, Tayug, Urdaneta, Baguio, Tabuk, Batanes, Aparri, Tuguegarao, Santiago, Ilagan, Cauayan, Bayombong, Quirino, Baler, Cabanatuan, Gapan, Cagayan de Oro, Gingoog, Catarman, Davao, General Santos, Koronadal, Cotabato, Kidapawan, Panabo, Tagum, Antipolo, Cainta, Olongapo, Subic, Tarlac, San Fernando, Pampanga, Angat, Malolos, Plaridel, Meycauayan, Obando, San Jose del Monte, Bacoor, Dasmarinas, Tagaytay, Calamba, San Pablo, Batangas, Lipa, Santo Tomas, Lucena, Puerto Princesa, Occidental Mindoro, Calapan, Brooke's Point, Coron, Sofronio Espanola, Taytay, Boac, Romblon, Daet, Iriga, Naga, Legazpi, Sorsogon, Masbate, Kalibo, Roxas, Iloilo, Bacolod, Cebu, Bohol, Tacloban, Ormoc, Calbayog, Catarman, Catbalogan, Biliran, Borongan.
“So even if they don’t go here, they still feel that they are part of the celebration as they have their own gathering,” Badong said.
For those who will join the activity in Manila, there will be a slight change in the crowded route: from Quirino Grandstand, left to Katigbak Drive thru Padre Burgos St., right Padre Burgos St. thru Finance Rd., left Finance Rd thru Ayala Blvd, left Palanca St., right Quezon Blvd, right Arlegui St, right Fraternal St, right Vergara St, left Duque de Alba St, left Castillejos St, left Farnecio St, right Arlegui St, left to Nepomuceno St, left Concepcion Aguila St, right to Carcer St., right to Hidalgo St. through Plaza del Carmen, left to Bilibid Viejo through Gil Puyat, left JP De Guzman St., right to Hidalgo St., left Quezon Blvd, right to Palanca St. thru under Quezon Bridge, right to Villalobos St. through Plaza Miranda all the way to Quiapo Church.
With millions of devotees expected to participate in the annual weekend gathering, church officials asked the faithful to physically and spiritually prepare for the occasion.
Guests included President Duterte, former Presidents Benigno Aquino III, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Joseph Estrada and Fidel Ramos, House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, Senate President Vicente Sotto III, Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Agrarian Reform Secretary John Castriciones, Agriculture Secretary William Dar, Budget and Management Secretary Wendel Avisado, Education Secretary Leonor Briones, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Roy Cimatu, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Eduardo del Rosario, Information and Communications Technology Secretary Gregorio Honasan, Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra, Labor and Employment Secretary Silvestre Bello III, National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar, Science and Technology Secretary Fortunato de la Peña, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rolando Bautista, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, Presidential Spokesperson and Presidential Legal Counsel Chief Secretary Salvador Panelo, Secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office Martin Andanar, Special Assistant to the President Jesus Melchor Quitain, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Michael Dino, National Security Adviser Gen. Hermogenes Esperon and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., former cabinet secretaries Ernesto Garilao, Erlinda Piafanco, Francisco Viray, Victor Ramos, Salvador Enriquez, Carmencita Reodica, Sonny Collantes, Cresenciano Trajano, Gregorio Vigilar, William Padolina, Guillermina Gabor, Cesar Bautista, Horacio Morales, Jr., Domingo Panganiban, Mario Tiaoqui, Jose Pardo, Alberto Romualdez, Jr., Artemio Tuquero, Bienvenido Laguesma, Gregorio Vigilar, Rogelio A. Panlasigui, Gemma Cruz-Araneta, Vicente Rivera, Jr., Nasser Pangandaman, Luís Lorenzo, Jr., Rolando Andaya, Jr., Jesli Lapus, Juanita Amatong, Margarito Teves, Alberto Rómulo, Esperanza Cabral, Ronaldo Puno, Patricia Santo Tomas, Arturo Brion, Marianito Roque, Avelino Cruz, Jr., Gilberto Teodoro, Jr., Florante Soriquez, Manuel Bonoan, Estrella Alabastro, Corazon Soliman, Roberto Pagdanganan, Joseph Ace Durano, Peter Favila, Anneli Lontoc, Virgilio de los Reyes, Proceso Alcala, Florencio Abad, Armin Luistro, Jose Rene Almendras, Carlos Jericho Petilla, Zenaida Monsada, Ramon Paje, Albert del Rosario, Enrique Ona, Manuel Roxas III, Rosalinda Baldoz, Voltaire Gazmin, Rogelio Singson, Mario Montejo, Alberto Lim, Ramon Jimenez, Jr., Gregory Domingo and Joseph Emilio Abaya.
A similar gathering will also be held in other parts of the country.
“More and more places are also holding it. For example in Nueva Ecija, it’s no longer just one parish that will observe, the cathedral in San Jose said they will also join,” Father Douglas Badong, parochial vicar of Quiapo Church, said in an interview.
“Some hold it the same time with us while others do it within the day,” he added.
Other areas that will also hold a gathering are Laoag, Vigan, La Union, Alaminos, Dagupan, Tayug, Urdaneta, Baguio, Tabuk, Batanes, Aparri, Tuguegarao, Santiago, Ilagan, Cauayan, Bayombong, Quirino, Baler, Cabanatuan, Gapan, Cagayan de Oro, Gingoog, Catarman, Davao, General Santos, Koronadal, Cotabato, Kidapawan, Panabo, Tagum, Antipolo, Cainta, Olongapo, Subic, Tarlac, San Fernando, Pampanga, Angat, Malolos, Plaridel, Meycauayan, Obando, San Jose del Monte, Bacoor, Dasmarinas, Tagaytay, Calamba, San Pablo, Batangas, Lipa, Santo Tomas, Lucena, Puerto Princesa, Occidental Mindoro, Calapan, Brooke's Point, Coron, Sofronio Espanola, Taytay, Boac, Romblon, Daet, Iriga, Naga, Legazpi, Sorsogon, Masbate, Kalibo, Roxas, Iloilo, Bacolod, Cebu, Bohol, Tacloban, Ormoc, Calbayog, Catarman, Catbalogan, Biliran, Borongan.
“So even if they don’t go here, they still feel that they are part of the celebration as they have their own gathering,” Badong said.
For those who will join the activity in Manila, there will be a slight change in the crowded route: from Quirino Grandstand, left to Katigbak Drive thru Padre Burgos St., right Padre Burgos St. thru Finance Rd., left Finance Rd thru Ayala Blvd, left Palanca St., right Quezon Blvd, right Arlegui St, right Fraternal St, right Vergara St, left Duque de Alba St, left Castillejos St, left Farnecio St, right Arlegui St, left to Nepomuceno St, left Concepcion Aguila St, right to Carcer St., right to Hidalgo St. through Plaza del Carmen, left to Bilibid Viejo through Gil Puyat, left JP De Guzman St., right to Hidalgo St., left Quezon Blvd, right to Palanca St. thru under Quezon Bridge, right to Villalobos St. through Plaza Miranda all the way to Quiapo Church.
With millions of devotees expected to participate in the annual weekend gathering, church officials asked the faithful to physically and spiritually prepare for the occasion.
Guests included President Duterte, former Presidents Benigno Aquino III, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Joseph Estrada and Fidel Ramos, House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, Senate President Vicente Sotto III, Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Agrarian Reform Secretary John Castriciones, Agriculture Secretary William Dar, Budget and Management Secretary Wendel Avisado, Education Secretary Leonor Briones, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Roy Cimatu, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Eduardo del Rosario, Information and Communications Technology Secretary Gregorio Honasan, Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra, Labor and Employment Secretary Silvestre Bello III, National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar, Science and Technology Secretary Fortunato de la Peña, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rolando Bautista, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, Presidential Spokesperson and Presidential Legal Counsel Chief Secretary Salvador Panelo, Secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office Martin Andanar, Special Assistant to the President Jesus Melchor Quitain, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Michael Dino, National Security Adviser Gen. Hermogenes Esperon and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., former cabinet secretaries Ernesto Garilao, Erlinda Piafanco, Francisco Viray, Victor Ramos, Salvador Enriquez, Carmencita Reodica, Sonny Collantes, Cresenciano Trajano, Gregorio Vigilar, William Padolina, Guillermina Gabor, Cesar Bautista, Horacio Morales, Jr., Domingo Panganiban, Mario Tiaoqui, Jose Pardo, Alberto Romualdez, Jr., Artemio Tuquero, Bienvenido Laguesma, Gregorio Vigilar, Rogelio A. Panlasigui, Gemma Cruz-Araneta, Vicente Rivera, Jr., Nasser Pangandaman, Luís Lorenzo, Jr., Rolando Andaya, Jr., Jesli Lapus, Juanita Amatong, Margarito Teves, Alberto Rómulo, Esperanza Cabral, Ronaldo Puno, Patricia Santo Tomas, Arturo Brion, Marianito Roque, Avelino Cruz, Jr., Gilberto Teodoro, Jr., Florante Soriquez, Manuel Bonoan, Estrella Alabastro, Corazon Soliman, Roberto Pagdanganan, Joseph Ace Durano, Peter Favila, Anneli Lontoc, Virgilio de los Reyes, Proceso Alcala, Florencio Abad, Armin Luistro, Jose Rene Almendras, Carlos Jericho Petilla, Zenaida Monsada, Ramon Paje, Albert del Rosario, Enrique Ona, Manuel Roxas III, Rosalinda Baldoz, Voltaire Gazmin, Rogelio Singson, Mario Montejo, Alberto Lim, Ramon Jimenez, Jr., Gregory Domingo and Joseph Emilio Abaya.
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| El Shaddai leader Bro. Mike Velarde |
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| President Rodrigo Duterte |
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| Former President Benigno Aquino III |
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| Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo |
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| Former President Joseph Estrada |
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| Former President Fidel Ramos |
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| House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano |
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| Senate President Vicente Sotto III |
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| Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta |
Also present were Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, Davao City Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte, Sen. Bong Go, former presidential sisters Ballsy Aquino-Cruz, Pinky Aquino-Abellada, Viel Aquino-Dee and Kris Aquino, former First Gentleman Atty. Mike Arroyo, Luli Arroyo-Bernas, current Senators Sonny Angara, Nancy Binay, Ronald dela Rosa, Lito Lapid, Imee Marcos, Koko Pimentel, Grace Poe, Bong Revilla, Francis Tolentino and Cynthia Villar, former Camarines Sur Rep. Dato Arroyo, former senators Rodolfo Biazon, Anna Dominique Coseteng, Loi Ejercito, JV Ejercito, Juan Ponce Enrile, Jinggoy Estrada, Jose Lina, Jr., Jamby Madrigal, Orlando Mercado, John Henry Osmeña, Sergio Osmeña III and Ramon Magsaysay Jr., Julius Babao and Christine Bersola, Eugenio Lopez III, Mark Lopez, Carlo Katigbak, Cory Vidanes, Charo Santos-Concio, Noli de Castro, Ted Failon, Korina Sanchez, Federico Garcia, Dra. Vicki Belo, Luisito Alejandro, Kim Bernardo-Lokin, Peter Musngi, Dr. Catherine Lim, Dr. Vic Endriga, Atty. Persida Rueda-Acosta, Boy Abunda, Bernadette Sembrano, Ricky Lo, Cheryl Cosim, Renee Salud, Niña Corpuz-Rodriguez, Mon Ilagan, Marife Mordido, Monchet Olives, Aida Gonzales, Noel Ferrer, Mario Dumaual, Karen Padilla-Tulfo, Ogie Diaz, Edna Lazaro, Robin Padilla, Leslie Salsbury, William Leung, Lourdes Rosario, Gerick Parayno, Jet Versoza, Ricky Sison, Apple Peji Tan, Johnny Santos, Charmaigne Flores, Andres Estrella, Bootsie Alejandrino, Ojie Leona, Jayanne Cagalingan, Felix Bacolor, Suzanne Garcia, Wilson Ma, Tisha Chipeco, Mary Ann Monzon, Charis Pineda and Valerie Henares, ACC Philippines board member Louie Locsin, Josie Natori, businessman George Barcelon and Irene Tan Barcelon, Bridges@Com managing director Franco Santos, chairperson Toni Palenzuela, president Annie Ringor, and managing director Nicole Jacinto, Visions and Expressions Inc. president Susan Joven, Toni Gregory-Palenzuela, Newtrends International Corporation president George Mirani, Ching Cruz, Agnes Huibonhoa, Fe Rodriguez, Cabalen owner and president Maritel Nievera, Maki Cruz, Pam Lopez-Tantoco, Rachelle de Guzman, Chris Blodgett, Anthony Blodgett, Dr. Arnel Quiambao, Dave Mancao and Monicca Domingo, parents Daisy and Dr. Aitoy Mancao, sisters Trina and Czari, Arleen Siongco, Dely Tubio, Dolly Godinez, Ayee Gonzales, Topper Cuyegkeng, Bebot Mancao, Dodo Macias, Mario King, Ruby Gomez, Frankie Carrion, Beverly Joson, Angie Buan, Annabelle Tan Go, Anton Carrion, Rupert Mayuga, Peter Mancao, Ariel Aguilar, Nezi Rubio, Trisha Aguilar, Camille Cruz, Carla Munoz, Glad Rodriguez, Grace Fernandez, Khamil Carrion, Czari Domingo, Kris Sevilla, Cath David, Dixie Atienza and Chini Anderson, Argee Godinez, Ernest Buan, Clark Godinez, Chino Jayme, Doug Macias, Aaron Co, Dave Macias, Luis San Juan, Joel Echacez, Ging Yulo, Ken Pono, VC Bacungan and Chad Noval, Pipo Angeles, Angelo Calma, Manny Pangilinan, Lorenzo Tan, artist Gus Albor, Architect Carlos de Castro, Romulo Galicano, Francis Libiran, Francis Manalo, Michael Martinez, Rex Mendoza and Greg Navarro, Faaabvlous Fifteen Women are Nabbie Alejo, Tetta Agustin-Bravery, Flora Chua, Sheree Chua, Mags Cue, Tiffany Syson-Cuña, Benedicta Du-Baladad, Jemellie Gonzales, Nguyen Mai Huong, Gina Ronquillo, Sarah Sison, Annie Tanco, Mildred Vitangcol, Ofelia Wadle and Marife Zamora, Maribel and Pabiling Calma, Mitch Garcia, Annabelle Adriano, Glexy Mojares, The Chosen Children Village, Peggy Angeles, Robin Sy, Nina Sy, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation execuitves Neil Rumbaoa, Merce Santos, Sharon Fong, Dindo and Leah Magallanes, Baritone Joseleo Logdat, pianist Belinda Salazar, DSAP Board Raymond Gabriel, Kevin Peter Yu, treasurer Juis Buted, vice chairman Beth Anana, Leni Olmedo, Maricar Sandalo, Rose Castillon-Famorca, 2014 Entrepreneur of the Year awardees: Menchie Copaway, Robin and Cheryl Bugayong, Ma. Lisa Nohara, Rose Castillon-Famorca, Sarah Jae and Alfredo Cruz, Merianne and Kit Talja, Romualdo and Marivic Plocios Veronidia Monta, Mario Teo, Christian Santos, Dr. Gina Retuta, Luger Camporedondo, Manuel Koh, Elardo Liwan, Danny Ramos, Pax and Gina Paculaba, Marites and Enrico Bulatao, Leni Ofmedo, Raymond Gabriel, Dr. Edwin Tecson, Arthur and Erlita Guevarra, Maria Cristina and Cederick Sevilla, Lanny and Julie Go, Ruby Gamiz, Vigiee and Beverly Jaro, Ferdinand Tolentino, Arnel and Jocelyn Morales, Evelyn and Bernie Yalung, Osler and Lina Santo Tomas, Marita de Corro, Beth Anana, Mikhail Janjan Koh, George Patrick and Dr. Garry Robel, Wilma Avellanosa Facelo, Rhea P. David, Karlo and Armie Carlos, Leandra Canoy, Mylene DJ dela Cuesta, Atty. Gwendolyn Deslate, Lorna Corazon Ruiz, Job Lim for Faith Sue Lim, Dr. Mark Paul Platon, Lydia Manio, Lorena and David Hermenegildo, Juls Busted, Erick and Christel Lovitos, Tony and Malou Macatangay, Arch. Pepito Munar, Jojie Nille and Sherly Cepada, Henry Lindberg, Chona Ong, Julieta San Jose for Mary Rose Aquino, Estrella Wood and Fanny Uong, Artist Tessa Mendoza with her children Arturo and Danielle Daza, Korbitec Managing Director Riaan Basson, Driven Marketing President Lubar delos Reyes, BPI Family Savings Bank SVP and Retail Mortgage Head Celyn Sta. Ana, Korbi Capital CEO Louis Maiherbe, OLX.ph managing director RJ David, Property24 Philippines country manager Steve Santos, marketing officer Mix Martinez, Edel Santiago, Property24 Philippines' Mae Codog, OLX.ph head of operations Arianne David, Marsh sales and business development executives Joy Sunglao and Neil Rojas, Malayan Insurance Business Development Manager Felisa Pesigan, EastWood Property Holdings’ Nelson Acosta, Property 24 Philippines account manager Shine delos Santos and Eastwood Assistant Manager Raegan Ramos, NSDR and Partners Architect Lynn del Rosario, Architect Ian Aquino, PSBank AVP for Direct Manager Yvette Go and assistant manager for asset sales Caroline Joy Torino, BPI Family Savings Bank VP for Retail Mortgage Herbert Tuazon and bank account officer Rowell Evangelista, Joe Vincent and Mary Beth de Leon, Jonjon Rufino with his cute twins Lucien and Lilith Macaria, Malou Rodriguez, Manolo Agustines, former Tarlac Governor Tingting delos Reyes-Cojuangco, Berna de Leon, Michelle Gemperle, Ging Montinola, Mary and Ed Mijares, Sunshine de Leon, Tonet and Linda Lagdameo, Marilou Pineda, Marilou Senn, Sandra and Richard Lopez, Zeny Seva, Amalie Azanza, Marrot Moreno, Mailyn Santos, Vicky Lopez, Mila Wales, Liza Bayot, Susie Bayot, Jun and Paco Bayot, Toto Cruz, Tony Garcia, Raffy Garcia, Ruben Orig and Johnny Ysmael, Mia Sunico and Beng Doria Velarde, JM Sibala and Dr. Lui Aquino, Patrick Onalines, former Blackpool England World Senior Latin champion Edna Ledesma, Jo Sabarre, Bryant Paul and Braeden John Biron, Dan Salvador and Elmee Cragun, Rose Lim and Violy Lim, Dr. Franklin Velarde, Lissa and Miggy Velarde, Mely Esguerra, Edith Camel, Marylou Sy, Lita Cruz and Poly Go, Carol and Architect Jojo Mercado, Asuncion Nieva-Ocampo, Christine Mercado-Atunez, Carl Mercado, Dr. John Ocampo, Gerry Ocampo-Cuatico, Anne Ocampo, Edgar Ocampo and Julian Antunez, Lawyers Amor Sycip Herrera and Mina Sycip Herrera, Tata Mara, Yvonne Quisumbing-Romulo, former Quezon City 1st District Rep. Bingbong Crisologo, Pazzy Navarro, actress Dang Cecilio-Palanca, Ida Vargas, Mark Christian Parlade, Blue Carreon, Dorcie Guingona, Marissa Buenaventura de Venecia, Lorna Silverio, Annie Ringor, Marietta Santos, Josine Elizalde, Pinky Del Rosario Zeller, Dr. Tony Protacio, Deeda Garcia-Verzosa, Anne Marie Robicheau-Saguil, Manny Ayala, Maritess Tantoco-Enriquez, Alexandre Charriol, Martha Orosa Uy, Jonathan Matti, David Almendral, Vanna Calalang Severino, Astrud Adriano-Crisologo, Rina Cu Unjieng Andrews, Rachel Climent, Mona Bishier-Valdes, Sandie Castro-Poblador, Joshua Payne, Emily Siy, Vincent Tanjutco, Sheila Carlos, Marzo Samson, Oudine Santos, restaurateur Ato Alvarez, Dr. Jojo Suarez, Nelia Sancho, Mykee Concepcion, Dinky Santos, Baboo Mondoñedo, Rita Trillo-Ugarte, Lia Martinez, Tanya Lim Llana, Alessandra Oledan Rodriguez, Emman Papa, Patricia Bunye-Rojas, Antonio Leaño, Pete Jimenez, Oscar Villamiel, Matteo and Katrin Gonzales, Robby Tantingco, Girlie Rodis, Anna Pingol, Allan Diones, Salve Asis and Ian Farinas, Rachel Alejandro, Summit Media editorial director and Cosmo Philippines Editor-in-Chief Myrza Sison, cookbook author and editor in chief of F&B Report magazine Angelo Comsti, Greta Lauron, Nene Dinglasan, Angie Sison, Dodi Sison, Kat Magubat, Crystal Tremblay, Liaa Magsaysay, Alvin, David and Paolo Sison, Kli and Blynn Layco, Norma Davies, Linda de Guia, Penny Victorino, Josie Palma, Alma Yabut, Richard Tremblay, Evelyn Quintana, Bassam Abou-Hamad, Nel Post, Dearsy Webb and Sally Hofilena, Greta Lauron and Binky Caral, Dr. Say Yabut and wife Alma with Eni and husband lawyer Vic Alba, Carlos Perez-Rubio, Noel Reyes and Linda Abou-Hamad, Sophia Ricafort Climaco, Benny Ricafort, Monica Climaco, Sophia Ricafort-Climaco, Pinang Saldana with Charito, Emmanuel, Michaela and Gaby Climaco, Emil Khodaverdi, Erika Rivilla, Inno Canlas, Mark Sy, Kai Khodaverdi, Franco Rivilla, Ana Climaco, Alfonzo Alegrado, Kiana Feliciano, Mara Caparas, Lia Uy and Kyla Genato, Miggy Franco, Jeanne Sy, Kerwin Yaolim John Ong, Justine Sy, Pat Perez, Alina Mabatid, Valerie Ypil, James Chrimski, Enrik Benedicto, Pia Neri, Emily Alcid, Dawn and Margin Feliciano and Jasy Carino, P&G Hair Care senior technologist Shean Lim and communications manager Deidre de Padua, Pantene endorser Catriona Gray, “Mega” magazine editor-in-chief Peewee Reyes-Isidro, stylist Ton Lao, Matrix president and CEO Jay Anthony Agosto, Allergan product specialist Via Perano, business development specialist Jennette Sia, district sales manager Ceejay Jornacion and national sales manager Benilda Soriano, PC/PNP Retired Officers’ Ladies Organization, Inc. officers and board Bienvenida Montoya, Marcy Dayco, Mawie Aglipay, Del Gallardo, Lulu Acharon, Maricris Dayco, Marisol Buena, Esther Domingo, Myrna Delfin and Jane Piad, Cecil Canson, Bleth Castillo, Esther Domingo, Dr. Jana Mora, Flor Reototar, Lilia Revil Tess Joaquin, Cecille Ysulat, Tess Inal, Flor Reototar, Aida Zoleta, Belo Medical Group marketing manager Jennie Julaton, Jo Juan and Dr. Guada Capiz, Dr. Eloisa Buse, associate physician Grace Purificacion, The Rockwell Club Marketing Head Sylveth Ong-iko, General Manager Geng Brillantes, Belo Medical Group, Inc. public relations specialist Milicent Silvestre, Vicki's assistant Dorothy Espiritu, Edith Arellano, Grace and Lois Villanueva, Yna Burgos and Chielo Manuel, Princess Bagatsing, Jayvee Ramirez, Ian Cordero, Jonah, Kathleen and Keana Gascon, Imelda Manguiat, Rafael Morales, Anthony Dee, Rocky Alejandro Angeles, Mia Gentugaya, Belo Medical Group operation manager non-medical Cecile Molina-Gregorio, Belo Medical Group general manager Agnes Ballesteros Lopez, Dr. Mina Abad-Cesa, Premier Center for Fashion and Design, Inc. president Stella Santos-Salcedo and son Sam Salcedo, medical operations manager Dr. March Babaran, Doctors Michelle de Jesus, Ching Villanueva and Guada Capiz, managing physician Carlo Lozada, associate physician Ericka Velasco, Jon Edmarc Castillo, Romeo Lumagui, Jr., John Christian Joy Regalado, Bhong Paulo Macasaet, John Paul de Leon, Belo Medical Group Business Development Manager Doris Jimenez, Imelda Manguiat, Russell Rodriguez, Marietta Tibayan, Easter Princess Castro, Aaron Roi Riturban, Aldous Benjamin Camiso, Roselle Jean Nonato, Tracy Anne Ong, Belo Medical Group Patient Care Specialists Lovely Tajan, SyCip Law Senior Associates Melyjane Bertillo-Ancheta, Aaron Roi Riturban, Maria Jennifer Barreto, Hiyasmin Lapitan, Belo Medical Group Patient Coordinator Annie Balalio, Leah Abutan, Diana Grace Uy, Maria Viola Vista, Jefferson Miras, Mary Jane Marasigan, Marissa Pascua, Shiela Balauro, Lourdes Aruego, Liza Mapagu, Ric Biancaflor, Tammy Lipana, Mely Corpuz, Helen Macasaet, Mely Corpuz, Mel and Amy Salazar, Nurture Wellness Village co-owner Dr. Mike Turvill, Jackie Boncan, Grace Palma-Tiongco, Liza Mapagu, Joy Asuncion Kelly, Belo Medical Group Tomas Morato managing physician Zaidy Zagala, actress Empress Schuck, Kristoff Abrenica, Jamilla Obispo, Chiqui del Carmen, comedianne Kitkat Favia, Dr. Disney Dulalia, Erlinda Lee, Anna Verdon, Donna Santos, Dr. Zaidy Zagala, Carmen Hussein, Dr. Guada Capiz, Dr. Ching Villanueva and Ericka Velasco, Dr. Carlo Lozada, May Lim, Charo Yujuico, Rose Buena, Lai Francisco, Belo Medical Group Greenhills clinic patient care specialists Carol del Pilar, Hazel Manuel, Mary Rose Baluyut, Rosebelle Muyo, Carcy delos Santos, Angel Luz Maga, Josephine Clavio, Jennifer Ibarra, Cecille Gregorio, Mega Atrium branch officer Joy Ramos, Marian Ong, Triple V owner Maridel Villavicencio, Jing Sarao, George Tagle, “Business+Class” magazine art director Florentino Cuevas IV, beauty editor Toni Abad, lifestyle editor Mia Tambunting Padilla, publisher Patrick Lawrence Tan, managing editor Kim Bernardo Lokin, fashion editor Rima Ostwani, president and editor-in-chief Jing Lagandaon, managing director Bing Ramillano, Linton Inc.’s Philip Lim, Association of Young Filipino Chinese Entrepreneurs honorary chairman Michael Chenglay, Segway Philippines president and CEO Wilson Lei, Reia del Rosario, Cris Lao, Former movie actress turned businesswoman and media personality Marissa del Mar, Cathy Turvill, Dr. Cora Claudio, Karim Garcia and Esther Go, AmCham executive director Ebb Hinchliffe, Belo Medical Group PR manager John Eric Ho, AmCham organizing committee Chet Guevara, Maureen Ortiz, Ron Rollorata, Pauline Santos, Rapha Health Institute president Dr. Chris Enriquez, AmCham’s Janica Gaisano, Carol Singson, Froland Tajale, JV Pimentel, AF Creators owner Abbie Flores, April Salonga, Quezon Power (Philippines) Limited Company’s Jeri Mae Descasa, Lala Avendano, BDO-Alba Romeo Management Consultancy manager Ruby Jadoc, Wendy Jane dela Cruz and Sherry Mae Jayme, Peter Lau, Belo Medical Group’s Annie Balalio, Trisha Gesilva, Milicent Silvestre, Dorothy Espiritu and Lovely Tajan, Frank Holz and Rhett Ramos, Retirement and Healthcare Coalition’s Camille Anne Carpio and Lena Schandra, Mar Gerome Abana, Melanie Pagaragan, Linda Javier and Iriss Barola, Celine Laurel and Au Galvez, ballerina, actress and ballet director Maritoni Rufino-Tordesillas, DermAsia Corporation CEO Nikki Tang, socialite and philanthropist Marcott Almeda, The Tinder Box owner Aziza Mondonedo with Marlene Mondonedo, Cristina Gomez, Penny Lopez Katigbak and Maricar Manese Xerez Burgos, Baby Araneta Fores, Lisa Araneta, Cacho Marcos, Linda Oledan, Veana Fores, Lorrie Reynoso, Maricris Zobel, Carol Garcia, former model Maripi Muscat, Interior designer and architect Anton Mendoza, Monch Cruz, Chut Cuerva, art collector-businessman Marcel Crespo, Valentina Salonna, Sasja Mulder, Ruel Papa, Cat Arambulo, Donna Andrada, Carlos and Billie Reyes, Aarmi Mayoralgo and Catalino Bondoc, Kulkumut Singhara Na Ayudhaya, Nivat Chantarachoti, Stale Torstein Risa, Sigalit and Sinai Djemal, Bibot Nolan, Vicky Pangilinan, Lia Valencia, Roseanne Coscolluela and Val Villegas, Michael and Nameeta Dargani, Marketing & Communication Strategist, Food & Tourism Advocate and Hypersocial Entrepreneur Marco Lobregat, Maripi Muscat, Roberto and Peter Laurel, Miguel Cerqueda, Lorna P. Laurel, Gerhard Kropp, Louie Cruz, Paul Campos, Alvaro Pertierra, Rogy Panganiban, Rafe Totengco, Justa Tantoco, Diana Go, Olga Martel, Betsy Tenchavez, Nini Valdez, Roi Phillips, Minerva Tanseco, Nini Layug, Chichi Laperal and Pitang Tiongson, Ameen Wal, Benjamin Oliva, Ramon Atayde, Antonio Roxas-Chua Jr., Lin-Ay Rufino, Ria Rebano, Cheryl de Leon, Geraldine Mayor, Karen Santiago Montenegro, Dr. Ramon Batungbacal, Menchu Romero, Celine Bautista, Claudio de Luzuriaga, Oye Fores, Sixto Orosa III, Malou Rosal, Nenuca Araneta Blardony, Antonio Tambunting Jr., Carrie Bautista, Tereret Liboro, Lina Lorenzo, Cynthia Conine, Letty Hahn, Cosetta Cassin Fedele, Marilou Alejandro, Naty Pappas, Dott. Massimiliano Sponzilli, Minerva Tanseco, Maria Algreir, Lyn Liboro, Tessie Rodrigo, Frank Evaristo, Johnny Chan, Sony Lopez Gonzales, Kit Aguado, Alex Libongco, Cris Icban Jr., Roman Azanza, Edith Rabat, Criselda Lontok, Sharon Tan, Jennifer Alonte, Dr. Lyra Ruth Clemente-Chua, George Lopez, Tito Tesoro, Noli Hans, Ramon Shing, Bobby Yang, Cez Manalo, Joaquin Rebano, Oskar Atendido, Michelle Tuason, Teresa Arnaiz, Ma-ys Rufino, Rosita Fernandez, Zac Sarian, Rocky Teodoro, Minnie Jentes, Jeng dela Torre, Arthur Lopez, Teresita Briones, Pam Litton, Pachot Mapa, Bolo Tuason, Tony Carag, Maridol Mabanta, Odi Rufino, Maripaz Garcia, Nene Leonor, Liza Bengzon, Ernie Pantangco, Leslie Moncupa Severino, Ditos Alcain, Cedie Lopez Vargas, Henry Atayde, Mercy Tuason, Vicky Cuisia, Mari Caballero, Mina Paras, Inday Gabaldon, Ferdinand Lucero, Eddie Atayde, Marisue Rufino, Maritess Limtong, Dante Silverio, Nellie Bengzon, Arlene Abiera, Cindy Velez, Benny del Rosario, Ingrid Bonnevie, Chona Trinidad, Fiona Young, Harry Limtong, Techie Velasquez, Titang Montinola, Jeanette Reyes, Joe Rebano, Victor Rufino, Pinky Concha-Colmenares, Fred Velayo, Angelo Songco, Ryan Ros Calmante, Amelia del Rosario-Aquino, Christine Litton, Gerard Ramos, Antonio Floirendo Sr., Leonor de Leon, Cary Lopez, Ronnie and Menchu Concepcion, Rose Orbigo, Marilyn Parra, Belinda Litton, Salome Uy, Naty Golez, Mialhe de Burgh, Francis Aguado, Raffy Aguado, Abeth Yu, Ludy Padilla, Phoebe Marquez, O.V. Espiritu, Lalie Tolentino, Lucille Chebaldin, Chinits Rufino, Robert Yupangco, Maritess Lopez, Fritz Azanza, Mary Ann Reyes, Marion Salonga, Grace Gallego, Donald Marshall, Joyce Ramirez, Macario Rufino, Jun Campillo and Roselle Rebano, Mita Rufino, Alexa, Tatina and Karen Boccone, Melchor and Nina Dizon, Leny Gutierrez, Ester Dee Rosca, Linda Cruz, Lulu Castaneda, Florence Monzon and Juanita Yap, Pepita Imperial Aquino, Marinette Dacumos, PV Rono, Ditas Ignacio, Baby Aquino, Dette Aquino-Tan, Rose Imperial, Rev. Fr. Roi Evangelista, Maricor Imperial, Mila Barlaan, Nelia Cortez, Menchie Lava, Charito Tusit, Tom Aquino, Nena Penson, Polly Aquino, Mario Rono, Efren Aquino, Percy David, Mila Magsaysay, Mel David, Lino Cortez, Joleen Laforteza, Baby Buenaventura, Gie Bulaclac, Luz Cullen, Nellie Bengzon, Rev. Fr. Matthew Blockley, Juanita Yap, Beth Cristobal, Minerva Tanseco, Chloe Periquet, Bert Basilio, Corazon Manese Perez, Azun Zubiri, Lil Dominguez, Patty Jalbuena, Lita Gelano, Glecy Mojares, Minda Imperial, Joy Conde Cruz, Annabelle Adriano, Malu Unson, Frank Adriano, Pilar Aldanese, Jorge Hizon, Lory Jambalos, Lili Adina, Nellie Valdez, Gilda Salonga, Alice Briones, Pacita de Guzman, Tessie Briones, Nellie Bengzon, Thelma Gana, Baby de Jesus, CWC officers Mimi Valerio and Nonie Basilio with husband Bert, Lulu Castañeda, Club Bulakeno former president Tess Castro, PGHMFI chairman Dr. Greg Alvior Jr., president Dr. Edward Tordesillas and corporate secretary Lolita Mirpuri, Letty Santos, Evie Costa, Nori Ongsiako, Mars Lambino, Offie Recto, Glenn Gale, Tessie Rodrigo, Naty Golez, Letty Syquia, Sandie Poblador, Maritess Pineda, Marieliese Evaristo, Cristina Castañer-Ponce Enrile, Diana Santos, Loleng Panlilio, Tessie Amparo, Marjo Ferraren, Luz Cullen, Yaying Dragon and Linda Pastoral, Anette Feliciano, Malou Duenas, Benito Benoza, Edg Samson, Jacqe Yuengtian, Wishnie Torres, IdeasXMachina Advertising, Inc. Senior Account Director Aaron Mempin, Unilever Senior Global Brand Director Paul Katimbang, former model, teacher, fashion consultant and now image and training specialist and businesswoman Olen Lim, Tyrone Valdes, Ipe Cruz, Ian Giron, Andres Vasquez Prada and Al Tengco, Magsaysay Group of Companies President and CEO Doris Magsaysay Ho, model and host Marc Nelson, Tina Maristela-Ocampo, Philip and Trisha Panlilio Cu-Unjieng, bachelor Sander Tantoco, entrepreneur Karen Santos, Bobby and Chingbee Cuenca, Baby Girl Fricke, “Lifestyle Asia” editor-in-chief Anna Sobrepena, Anthony Wahl, David Lim, Linda Ley, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila director of communications Francis de Leon, Jaime Pineda, Peter Lau, fashion and ramp models Trishan Cuaso and Peter Norrdell, Agile Zamora, Willie Vergara with Jack and Sonja Rodriguez, Gary Lising and fashion designer Roy Gonzales, Gerone Olorocisimo with Luigi and Joanne Estella, David and Fides Hsu, Dolores Cheng and Totoy Garcia, Alice Canlas, Marissa Ocampo, Baby Rojas and Lorna Hizon, Gerry Golion and SM Supermalls senior vice president for engineering and security affairs Antolin Paule with SuperStar vice chairman and president Manny Sy and COO Sergio Yu, Junjun and Rowena Suarez, Jet and Alexis Suarez with Alcs Porras and Pleshy Wee, Joanna Suarez and Melissa Racela, Ryan Singh and Lesley Tan, Designer-wellness advocate Jean Lim Goulbourn, Frances Lim, Gourmet Farms founder Ernest Escaler, former Senator, Department of National Defense Secretary, Radio Philippines Network, Inc. president and CEO and current Eastern Regional Organization for Public Administration Secretary General Dr. Orly Mercado and World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific Division of Noncommunicable Diseases and Health through the Life-Course Director Dr. Susan Pineda, Probe Productions, Inc. founder and president, TV host and Rappler founding editor Cheche Lazaro, ABS-CBN news journalist and Content Head for Lifestyle, Entertainment and Sports News Ces Drilon, Chino Dee, Mitch Valdes, Daniel Teichert and wife fashion designer Maureen Disini, Zelda and Jessica Kienle, Stephanie Kienle-Gonzalez, Jo Ann Bitangcol, Jappy Gonzales, Silverlens’ Rachel Rilo, Romeo Lee, ABS-CBN Sports+Action channel head Vince Rodriguez, Fritz and Kathy Webb, Bea Ledesma, Cecilia and Monique Carrion, Esquire editor in chief Erwin Romulo and Jerome Gomez, Vivian Veloso-Herrera, Bong Dimayacyac, Diane Benisano-Bautista, Beth de Mesa, Gina Ocampo-Haas, Tet Villanueva, Michelle de Leo, Liza Ma, Carol Chen, Bart San Diego, Efren de Jose, Alphie de Guzman, Benjamin Cabrera, photographers Bengy Toda and Denise Weldon, fashion designers Joey Samson, Jojie Lloren, Francis Libiran, Sassa Jimenez, Ivarluski Aseron and Randy Ortiz, Jenny Pastor, Sheila dela Cuesta & graphic artists behind the book Cynthia Arre, Chinggay Labrador & Lizza Guttierez, Carmina Sanchez, Yael Buencamino, Anthony Yupangco, homemaker Penny Daza Tuviera, Tracey Paska, Dr. Bernadette J. Madrid, “ETC” network development head Katrina Holigores, “Metro Society” editor in chief Raul Manzano, SANUK brand manager Vangie Chua Chan, Primer Group of Companies AVP Irene Nieva, Roxanne Barcelo, Eric Tai, Rima Ostwani and Eliesse brand asssociate Alexis Lizares, Primer Group creative director Rhett Eala, photographers Charlie Altomonte, George Tapan, Gutsy Tuason, Isa Lorenzo, Mayie Delgado, Jojo Guingona, Mandy Navasero, Neal Oshima, Ralph Diaz, Romy Gacad, Tilak Hettige, Wig Tysmans, Mark Nicdao, Jake Verzosa, Ronnie Salvacion, Doc Marlon Pecjo, Shaira Luna and Xander Angeles, Jocelyn Oxlade, cameramen Val Cuenca, Don Tagala, Jackie Castillejo-Guingona, Ana Kalaw, Raul Teehankee, Pepper Teehankee, Mariko Jacinto, Aye Nuguid, Dani Aliaga, Chris Lopez, “Metro Home and Entertaining” editor-in-chief Anton Barretto, Lifestyle Asia Editor-at-Large Cheryl Tiu, Jack de Mesa, Concepcion Industrial Corporation Vice Chairman of the Board and the Treasurer Renna Hechanova-Angeles, Bingbing Gonzales Quiros, Hands on Manila Board Trustee Gina Africa-Aboitiz, Nick and Alterations Plus president Lucille Carlos-Locsin, architect Manny Miñana, J. Anton Mendoza, Budji Layug, Royal Pineda, Ed Calma, Milo Naval, Tony Gonzales, Tes Pasola, Kenneth Cobonpue, Ana Rocha, Aliya Parcs, Bart Guingona, Michael Williams, Sol Salao and Ernie Fajardo, Sheryn Regis, Bianca Lapus, TOEPFFER Group, Inc. President Ambassador Narcisa de Leon Escaler, Jamie Joe, Andrew Kim, Daniel Chua, Carlo Racela, Edwin Tan, David Fabros, BFS Corporate Communication Head Juno Henares Chuidian, Grendel Alvarado, Jerome Lorico, Ryan Laborte, Aislynn Liao, Brandon Parrenas, Karen Guinto, Lady Trinity, Funk Avy, Gema Luisa Pido, Jose Mari and Happy Miranda, Gothong Southern CEO Bob Gothong, Former Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary, Civil Service Commission chairperson and Philippine Red Cross board secretary Corazon Alma De Leon, National Competitiveness Council Private Sector Co-Chairman Guillermo Luz, Unionbank of the Philippines Chairman of the Board and CEO Justo Ortiz, Oscar M. Lopez Center Executive Director Mayan Quebral, Scientific Director Dr. Rodel Lasco, Ria Francisco-Prieto, Margie and Jonathan Frank, Matthew Friesh, Bryan Kong, Luke Baker, Hannah Kong, Krish Dhanam, Peter Tan-Chi, Sanj-Kay Ricks-Kalra, Francis Kong, Rachel Kong, Tracy Trinita, Ruth Malhotra, Sanj Kaira, ANC producer Rely de Guzman, Richprime Global, Inc. Vice-President Jane Yao-Tiu, Qualcomm Philippines chief Mantosh Malhotra, Italian Embassy First Secretary and Deputy Head of Mission Alfonso Tagliaferri, fashion and lifestyle blogger Ingrid Chua-Go, Hungarian model turned photographer Simon Sandor, fashion designer Rosanna Ocampo-Rodriguez, Rogue Magazine Editor in Chief Paolo Reyes, Philex Mining Corporation Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs Atty. Mike Toledo, Jazz Carrion, Dominic and Angelique La O-Uy, Monster Radio RX 93.1 DJ Alven Villavicencio, Physical Therapy Specialist Dr. Lorraine Uy, Transnational Diversified Group’s Noell Niro, Renvi Martinez and Carlo Severino, tripmoba.com’s Third Umali, Christine Uychiaoco, Suzie Fernandez, Transnational Diversified Group Founder, Chairman and CEO Jose Roberto Delgado, Asian Journal, Inc. Vice President for Marketing & Special Events Vince Samson, Mega Group's PR & Events Manager Tedrick Yau, Amanda de Ocampo, Suki Salvador, and Sophie Menor, Piquadro travel retail and wholesale director Florence Nguyen, “Wine Story” managing director Romy Sia, “Cos d’ Estournel” brand ambassador Charles Thomas, David Celdran, Elbert Cuenca and Manila Bulletin’s Style Weekend editor-in-chief Liza Ilarde, Ces Tan, Kiddo-preneur founder, Aesthetique Solutions president Maiki Oreta, Samsung head of corporate marketing Chiqui Torres Tan and Sari Yap, Antionette Taus, Gretchen Fullido, DJ Tom Taus, Marga Bernardino, Jean Tanada, Irene Isip, Ellen Brillantes, Jacqueline Legarda, Gino Puno, Pia and Jerico Fernando, Stefanie Schmitz, John Ong, Cristina Gomez, Anthony Cospito, Lauro and Grace Baja, Arlu Gomez, Rex Gapuz, Kellyn Sy, Macy Castillo, Tammy David, Bill Johnson and Gladys Romualdez, Nerissa Angel Bendivel, Baggy Tillah, RLC's Arlene del Rosario and Kate Cordon, Joel Tempongko, Kamille Salvador, RLC's Mikka dela Cruz and Meliza Javier, Edwin Magno, RLC's Tamara Lumibao, Estella David and architect Rey David, Paul Villalino, RLC's Lailanie Martinez, sales director Lyn Asuncion, Rommel Real, RLC's Rave Lusterio and Will Roallos, Abel and Ariel Gonzales, RLC's Josephine Ramos, Gie Munsayac, RLC's Abigail Gregorio and Allan Victor Toreno, Gie Munsayac, RLC’s Abigail Gregorio and Allan Victor Toreno, RLC’s Neil Hillario, Teresita Bautista, Levy Guerrero and Arvin Hilario, RLC’s Nino Rico, Tintin Leya, Esrnest Castillo and Marky Hagos Kim Saballega, Sam Esponilla, RLC's Matthew Oyama, Klaus Aporado, Susan Magdangal, parents Rudy and Chit Magdangal, pretty sisters Monica and Nicole Thommes, painter-photojournalist Pinggot Zulueta, Boots Alcantara, Dr. Ferjenel Biron, Lolita Mirpuri, painter Francis Nacion, Dr. Greg Alvior, Riba Nacion, Linda Panutat, Abby Frias-Teotico, Chai Carlos, Duffie Osental, Jack Teotico, Rio Ambrosio, HSBC Asian Economic Research managing director and co-head Federic Neumann, sales heads Bombi Dominguez and Agnes Sauler, customer value management AVP Marsha Guzman, retail banking and wealth management head and SVP Gigi Pio de Roda, general counsel and SVP Gerry Licup, HSBC CEO Wick Veloso, “Global Markets” head and treasurer Dondi Baltazar, Confrefie de la Chaine des Rotisseurs Cebu members Isabelita Abello, Zenaida Chua, Melanie Castre, Marilita Magos, Beth Metcalf and Frances Siao, chevaliers Tonino Ciarrochi, Daniele Costantin, Jerome Escalona, Michel Guinefolleau, David Leonard, Jose Limalima, Daniel Mercado, Patrick Pangilinan, Kaiser Tan and Michel Villar, maître hoteliers Patrick Carroll, Nenette Castillon and Maria Lopez, maître rotisseurs Adrien Guerey and Andrea Lamera, Hennan Group of Resorts executive vice president Alfonso Chusuey, Henann Group of Resorts chairman Dr. Henry Chusuey, Hennan Group of Resorts executive assistant to the general manager Pinky Bacud, Henann Group of Resorts assistant to the president Errol Ledesma, Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa resort manager Dindo Salazar, Discover Asia president Joseph Mercola, Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa food and beverage manager Mario Gatmaitan, Dindo Salazar, Francesca Mae dela Cruz, Tungkai Huang, Jaime Sy, “Christina”’s outlet manager Chris Supetran, theater actress Isabella Jose, Postmaster General Josie Dela Cruz, interior designer and artist Tessa Alindogan, Lalaine Logistics International Inc. logistician/EVP Liz Almoro-Aliwalas, Brand Gateway, Inc. CEO Gabrielle Boschi, Tata Saavedra, Adworks Graphic Designs Manila creative director and owner Mye Cruz, Maika Cruz, Nicole Cruz, Ash Ghasemi, Ian Galliguez, Madrigal-Bayot Development Corporation president Francisco Madrigal-Bayot, Jr., project architect Wilbert Tan, Susana Madrigal Bayot-Ortigas, MBDC vice president for finance Mardes Nicandro, vice president for marketing Francisco “Paco” T. Bayot, Alice Samson, Lawyer Sylvette Tanklang, Dara and Kenneth Sy, Sally Villaraza, Kat Ignacio, Lily and Gabriel Lardizabal, Alan del Ramirez, Josh Belmonte, Arlene Jacobo, Charla Cabagbag, Antonette Bulanan, Marlyn Cacio, Rudy Francisco, Virgie Monton, Mary Ann Pentason, architects Toots Romero and Rima Cinco, Manuel Sy, Sea Wind’s Ruth Tirol-Jarantilla, Rev. Fr. Oscar Andrada, Tony Lim, Alfred Luis and Marjorie Estrella Pascua Villa-Real, Susan and Jobert Cocjin, Marichel Magalona, Nanette Lasala and Patrick Allan Sy, Marilou Cacho, Marie Rose Cacho, Ruth Tirol-Jarantilla, Augusto Villa-Real, Cristina Syyap Xerez-Burgos, Mercedes Villa-Real, Chef Adrien Guerrey, Mayen Tan, Susan Sala, Amparito Lhuillier, Ambassador Rosario Manalo, Philippine Hoteliers, Inc. president and vice chairman Evelyn Singson, Elsa Payumo, Edwina Koch-Arroyo, Dr. Raquel Fortun, TV news personality Mel Tiangco, Dr. Carmina Aquino, Tita Sison, Ralph Joseph, Stephen Young, Reggie Aguinaldo-Young, Menchu Lopez and Conchitina Bernardo, Veronika Kurdiova, Vedrana Sciran, Jennifer Poole, Ryan Ressurecion, Nadine Alberto and Michelle Batungbakal, Penny Santos Gatti, Enervon Prime’s Bing Barrientos and Raine Calma, Rolly Magat, Le Lagdameo, Weng Domingo, Cynthia Ty, with Bobby Domingo and May Cruz, Opap Villonco, Pete Villalon, Bibing and Ted Villanueva, Cathay Land, Inc. marketing and sales head Achilles Gadayan, finance manager Christopher Balonan, Alveo Land president Robert Lao, sales head Gutz Gutierrez and project development group division manager Paulo Ong, Charina and Raymond Garcia, Olivia Ng, Christopher Balonan, Phinma Corporation President and CEO Ramon del Rosario, Microtel Inns & Suites (Philippines), Inc. president and CEO and South Forbes Silangan Hotel Corporation President Jose Mari del Rosario, Britanny Corporation Team project architect Kristian Islanan, Vista Land Chairman and former Sen. Manny Villar, Crosswinds Project Head Lea Bulatao, General Manager Trixie Dial, Marketing Service Assistant Beau Casaus, marketing servies head Michelle Barrientos, marketing assistant Carmina Panotes, technical had Edwin Mosura, customer relation management head Jefferson James Memil, Virginia, Jamie, Jamie, Kino, Dr. Vilma, Jiggy, Hobi and Kino Javier, Jy Corpuz and Brenda Vergara, Gerry Matutina, Liza Tiatco, Sab Matutina, Gabby Esponga, Nomar Dehiel, Justine Rael, Marissa Narlo, Princess Mendoza, Ysabelle Patrice Belen with Mona Andrea and Mon Santiago-Rael, Nelson and Winnie dela Cruz with daughter Nichelle, Britanny Corporation Senior Accountant Cathy dela Cruz, Airo Mojica, Tin Palacios and Marielle Mercado, Migui Mico, Lyn, Richard, Maco and Mariel Maquinoa, Primitivo Bisnar and Shiela Mae Pepa, Ria, Rudy and Dr. Nora Obiniana, Daniella de Guzman and Brian Obiania, Janire Meravite, Charito, Maylyn, JC and Marione Lloren, Michelle Barrientos, Britanny Corporation marketing service assistant Carla Cadiz, Trixie Dial and Martin Lim, Michael Tiongson and Lyka Aiarilla, Britanny Corporation broker recruitment and training head abbe gardiola, marketing assisstant Karla Salvino, Beau Casaus, marketing coordinator Jessica Dogaojo, Carmina Panotes, accounting staff Jeensan Tolentino and senior accounting staff Anna Espares, Kris Larsen, Antonio Ressano, Geoff Morgan de Rivery, Danielle, Deb and Vienne Capuyon, Dr. Jun Luna with wife Margaret, JV and Tony Pavia, Jerry and Jinky Rabano, Gutsy Au, Carminia Pavia, Manolyne Taylor, Carla Jeongga Huang, Ivy Canosa and Jill Lava, Crimson Vice President for Sales and Marketing Carmela Bocanegra and Butch Carungay, Crimson Resident Kris Quadros, Karen Rodriguez, Jan Rodriguez, Andre and Maitina Borromeo, Crimson Area General Manager James Montenegro, Maica Villanueva, Renos Agousti, Angie Miranda, Annabel and Sonny Alo, Kristoffer Larsen, Lani Pangan-Osmena, Monique de los Santos and Annette Osmena, Bea Villegas and Miguel Osmena, Godfrey Laforteza and Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Irma Atillo, Teresin Mendezona, Honorary Consul of France Michel Lhuillier, Michel Guinefolleau, Louie Thevenin, Lotte Schapp, Honorary Consul of Sweden Jose Sala, Hugues Antoine Suin, Yann and Stephanie Larrandabure, Ellise Robillart, Oche Golez, Alicia Plaza, the staff of Alliance Francaise de Cebu Mark Sy, Angelica Valera, Renante Ricablanca and Kurt Ocenar, Melissa Bonnaud, Graziella Vergain, Charlene Virlounet, Kevin Hoffert, Lani Pasquet, Jay Chiongbian, Jewelmer Joaillerie AVP for retail sales Niza Capili, Carmen Campbell, business tycoons Milk Wang and Benjamin Wu, actor Jeffrey Santos, Kickstarter’s Christian Besler and Patch Dulay, Preview Editor-in-Chief Isha Andaya-Valles, Enrique Valles, Marissa Lopa, host Cerah Hernandez, master baker Nigel Sanders, GUESS marketing supervisor Mirella Cruz, model Janina Manipol, Zenith Optimedia’s senior integrated media planner Hazel Carlos and head of media integration and client acquisition Emman Ordinanza, team Gardenia Bakeries (Philippines) Inc. production manager Rodan Apolonio, manufacturing manager Tina Domondon, marketing manager Thea Tan, president and general manager Simplicio P. Umali, Jr., COO Tomas Rocamora, business development manager James Cariaga, HR manager Olive Tan, retail product manager Emillie Battad, corporate relations manager Mary Ann Cabrera, Carlo Umali, Digzy Umali, Chema Marquez & JingJong Laurel, model/host/blogger Kim Jones, owners and publishers of Project Mom Jaime and Chris Daez, Anna Dy, Pilar Tuason, Marta Araneta, model, former “MTV” VJ, host and blogger Patty Laurel-Fillart, Lucky Lalique Man and Woman of the Year 2009 Mike Ellis and Geri Giles, Ryan Villamael, Goldie Poblador, Geoff Gonzales, Manny Cabili, Clair and Roman Barberis, Eliza Tan, Joyce Andres, Cristina Ynes Sison, Maryann Garcia, Menchie Gregorio, Ivo Kahanek, Jan Fisher, Helmut Gaisberger, Paul Schenk, Tomas Jamnik, Jaroslav Ludva, Junoy Verano, Tim Appleton, Loise Angelique Tan, Joan Uy, Katrina Isabelle Ros, Maria Ruby Guinto, Maria Theresa Gorgonio, Carlisle Santos, Susan Syquia, Jessie Sincioco, Minnie Jentes, Pam Gonzales, Victoria Marin, Nino Canaleta, Wini Arboleda, Yancy and Ranigel de Ocampo, Brian Revilla, Raymond Toledo, Kailash Ramchandani, Chris Fondoso, Art Hyndman, Alvin Degamo, Joey Pineda, Ever Garcia, former Tourism secretary Mina T. Gabor, hair stylist Henri Calayag, Chef Tippi Tambunting, Ana de Ocampo and Michelle Tiangco, Andrej Wisnieswski, Manila Bulletin Lifestyle Editor and Sense&Style editor-in-chief AA Patawaran, Editor Chelo Banal-Formoso, watercolorist Alessandra Lanot, digital artist Patrick Cabral, Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, Eloisa Matias, Marco Jerome Gatpandan, Kim Narciso, Mel Oca, Mary Cdelpilar, Carlos Siguion-Reyna, Erlinda Ynchausti Cruz and Pip Cruz, Manet A. Dayrit, ABS-CBN Corporation communications consultant and former spokesman Bong Osorio, Minerva Tanseco, Maurice Lim, Rev. Fr. Matthew Blockley, Robbie and Lala Wong, Jorge Wong, Marivic Vazquez, Pepito Albert, Cecille Ang, Michael Beltran, B Hotel General Manager Jomari Ouano with Charlito Cornejo, ALPLA General Manager Thomas Ahrer, ALPLA Large-Scale Project Head Danny Smith, Chi Lugue, ALPLA Project Assistant Manager Thomas Hochhaltinger, Lorna Banaticla, Monette Pangan, Lorna Famatigan, Maria Lina Lisette Saba, Rigelle Tuico, Romelino de Lara, John Willager, Mike de Mesa, Jag Ona, Federick Cancino, Francis Calderon, Joel Nava, Juan Carlos Torres, Juan Dominguez, Gaudencio Piamonte, Randy Armigos, Randy Canlobo, Maximo Libang, Erwin Vergara and Jed Adrian Aranilla, Steven Bullock and Carlo Bautista, Romeo Lee, Bjorn Calleja, Kate Inne, Liga Jankova, Don Gallcia, Tawie Tantay and Mary Ann Tantay, Johnroy Alferez, John Dy, Miguel, Jeannette, Kurt and Bigboy Bigboy Cheng, Anson Lee and Wilmer Hontiveros, Artists Tawnie Tantay, Bree Jonson, Jana Brike and Galaxie Maria, Dennis Villa-Ignacio, Mike Tiaoqui, Miko Abueg, Allan Tolentino, Blake Castro, Melvin Tan, Bigboy Cheng, Jia and Gabby Estrella and Rudy Ngo, Consuelo Camacho, Arjean Javier, Carlos Valenzuela, Macky Mangulgad, Drummer duo Macky Brillantes and Nix Pernia a.k.a. Motherbass, Nino Lorenzo Tobiano, Gerry and Jinky Sy, Julio and Tessie Tobiano, Vicky and Hans Chu, John and Sarah Bazey, Susan and Hlenn Rothmann, Ure and Dianne Kretowicz, Karrel May and Pianne Tobiano-Sinfuego, Juancho Robles Tom and Lilian Aduel, Vicky and Hannah Chu, Tess Coffil, Vivan Foz-Palma and Dale Kassimir, Patrick Jacinto, Miguel Vaca, Ric Alba, Dr. Nestor Alfonso, Happy Melendrez, Anton Quisumbing, Geoff de Freitas, Sonia Yuvallos, Tess Javier, Skate and Marco Anzani, Jonathan Chantong, Arlene Chan, Tessie Tan, Julie Choa, Abeth Yu, Elsa Ang, Linda Nocom and Letlet Cocabo, Management Association of the Philippines Governor Peter Wallace, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman Atty. Mike Varela, First Credit Consultants Corporation President Grace Palma-Tiongco, Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines executive vice-president Sherisa Nuesa and National Affairs Committee Chairman Eddie Yap, Lynn Aguirre, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Felipe Medalla, Raquel Garcia, Socorro Lammoglia, Gianna Montinola, Regina Paterno, Marybeth Delgado, Billy Cortez and Sherisa Nuesa, Makati Business Club Executive Director Peter Perfecto, Bayan Academy Chairman and Former Asian Institute of Management Dean Dr. Eduardo Morato, Jr., Socorro Lammoglia, Cleo Llamas and Tet Campos-Lorenz, Anak TV president Elvira Yap-Go, Angelita Cruz, Nida Vera, Maribel Descallar, Loudette Banson, Lizzy and Enzo Razon, Ana V. Singson, Cherry Santos, Marot Moreno, Caling Young, Merleen TiO, Alice Tang, Conchitina Ladao, Aurora Gonzales, Andrew and Myda Prieto, Hermana Mayores Belen Hidalgo, Malou Unson, Allan Tengco, VicVic Tengco-Burgos, Confradia de la Inmaculada Concepcion Vice Chairman Danny Dolor, Nelly Bengzon, Maritess Pineda, Nenuca Bladorny, Rev. Fr. Bobby Mariano, Rev. Fr. Jay Lina, Rev. Fr. Allan Valero, Philippine Airforce Brig. Gen. Domingo Palisoc Jr., Rev. Fr. Dennis Alingalan, Regina and Zita Feliciano, Oscar and Anthony Violago, Alvin Ancheta, Rose Datuin, Linda Callo, Estela Lopez, Alfredo Antolin, Rafael Melocoton, Paolo Taha, Gina Leonor and Vince Corpuz, Niki Legaspi, Duy Ortoll, Lee Corpus, Mikey Garrovillo, Miki Yuhico, Joey Arnada and Ed Santos, Palafox Associates Managing Partner and Senior Urban Planner Karima Palafox with Urban Land Institute CEO Patrick Philips, Kyrus Feeman, Serena Wolfe, Mariela Alfonzo, Urban Land Magazine Editor Elizabeth Razzi, Palafox Associates Principal Architect, Urban Planner and Founder Felino “Jun” Palafox, ULI Philippines Chairman and Global Trustee Charlie Rufino, Jones Lang LaSalle Leechiu regional director and country manager David Leechiu, Philip Morris Fortune Tobacco Corporation Inc. director for international controls Anton Stankov, International Academy of Management and Economics chairman lawyer Emmanuel Santos, Standard Chartered Bank CEO Mahendra Gursahani, Credit Lyonnais Securities Asia president Luis Virata, Rukiya Eaddy, Carla Guerrera, Aruna Doddapaneni, Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates' Forth Bagley and Tana Hovland, Contemporary Filipino artist Strobs Hodreal-Legaspi, Lulu Hodreal, ACWS-United Broadcasting Network, Inc. president Joseph Hodreal, Zeny and Jonny David, Michelle Bermuda, Silang Mayor Emilia Poblete, Pia dela Cruz, Andoni Carballo, Miggy Alvia, Jannah Ejercito, Ben Saguil, 720 Consumer Connect president Delia Saguil Rae Leninto, Robert and Mallene Limcaco, Joyce Jimenez, Rowena Bigarda, Beyond Borders Travel and Tours president Santi and Vania Edralin and Jem Tolentino Sanz, Pia dela Cruz and Jannah Ejercito, Software Ventures International Corporation (SVI) chairman Ronnie Romero and chief executive officer Gil Guanio, Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) president Ed Lacson and wife Mila, National Power Corporation former president Pablo Malixi, former Energy secretary Mario Tiaoqui, Nenen Rodriguez, Rey Orense, Lito Mundok, Efren Gabrillo, Angel de Dios, Drs. Claire and Efren Palabyab, former Environment and Natural Resources secretary Vic Ramos, Benny del Rosario, Philippine National Bank Director and past president Omar Nier, SVI CEO Gil Guanio, Motolite's Leo Tolentino and Joe Rebano, former Regional Trial Court judge Manny Cosico, World Bank’s Dr. Agustin Que, SM Investments Corporation's Uly Naguit, PC Worx's Jake Oh, Cisco's Al dela Cruz, PC Worx's Third Solmayor, Cisco president Louie Castaneda and Ron Tolosa, SVI's DJ de Jesus, Clark Data Center's Jae Guanio, Ramcar's Gary Calantuan, Pfizer's Ferdie Cruz, ICTSI's Mark Cruz, Philex’s Brett Medel, Global IT’s Earl Ferrer, PLDT executives Christopher Young and Emil Tanchico, PLDT Global's chief technology officer Mar Lanuza, Ray Chavez and ACAsia General Manager Dinia Chavez, Diwi Castanos, Omar Mier, Badong Castanos, Nini and Palmy Layug, Microsoft's Bing Ortega, Philippine National Oil Company director Cora Estrella, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas corporate affairs director Fe dela Cruz, Joe Rebano, Herma Group CEO and chairman Hermie Esguerra and wife Malou and chief information officers of major companies, CATS Motors, Inc. PR director Emy Arcilla, Benny and Fely del Rosario, Jayelles' Ina Buhayong, Vic Magbanua, Mati Uylangco, Rico Cavestany, Jose Syquia, Czarina Ablaza-Syquia, Mellie and Louie Ablaza, Jun-Jun Ablaza and Alfonso Syquia, Azi, Azia, Amanu and Aqu Syquia, Stephanie Chong and Richard Alacorn, Margarita Cerezo, Carla Cruz and Baby Cruz, Bry Reyes, Johanna Dee and Michelle Dee, Carla Engage-Cruz and husband Alfred Jose Cruz, Mike Agassi, Carlos Agassi, Butch Lucila, Jay-ar Gelacio, Ollie Bucao, Benny Benitez, Mike Lopez, JM Galauran, Raymond Ravelo, Francis Amores, Nen Vehemente, JC Santamaria, Ed Ondoy, Mike Agassi and Ivan Tablizo, Firtzy Yanez, Hans Velano, David Cua, Ilene de Vera, Angel Luzano, Matet Gorgonio, Judah Cohen, Miss Cebu 2014 Wynonah Buot, Annette Osmena, Fashion accessory designer Ann Ong, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila director of communications Francis de Leon, Carminia Pavia, Eni Alba, Lourdes Yao, Hoseki’s Zabeth Co and Faico, Tessie Perez, Marilyn Young, Eddie Wong, Lourdes Yao, Cristina Gomez, Sheree Chua, Tanya Yu, Kim Haw, Katz Montealegre, Ofie Wadle, Joy Melendres, Amelia Ting, Mary Villanueva, Salome Dy, Arlene Yu, Nurture Wellness Village president and co-owner Cathy Turvill, Management Association of the Philippines Membership Committee vice chair Archit Bartolome, governor Greg Navarro, Membership Committee Vice Chairman Grace Palma-Tiongco, membership committee chair Mel Salazar, Gerona, Tarlac Vice-Mayor Holden Sembrano, DTI-Tarlac Provnicial Director Agnes Ramirez, Vic Papurga, Evelyn Pendon, Cornhusk flower-making contest winner Sheryl Galura, young entreprenur Bryan McClelland, SM City Tarlac assistant mall managers Darrel Ramos and Lourdes Marie Reyes, Oricon's Giselle Magcalas, Prima Beads’ Cynthia Cheldan Medina, Elizabeth Tresvalles, Wood Inspirations' Glenn and Blesida Pascual and sons Maiko and Gina, Wessa Mallari and Carlo Dizon, Dueg Upland Farmers Marketing Cooperative’s Dr. Ronaldo Toledo, marketing manager Christian Marcelius Antonio and secretariat Myla Grace Tolentino, Danton Remoto, Mariel Q. de Jesus, Andrew Drilon, Alexander Osias, An Mercado-Alcantara, Menchu Sarmiento, Noelle de Jesus and Mookie Katigbak-Lacuesta, Kate Osias, Cristina Pantoja-Hidalgo, Trish Shishikura, Andrew Pasion-Flores, Carlomar Daoana, Gene Tamesis, Nathaniel Chua, Sarge Lacuesta, Gabriella Lee, Therese Garceau, Eliza Victoria Susan Lara, RayVi Sunico, Paul de Guzman, Scott Garceau, Reno Evangelista, Melay Guanzon-Lapena, Rofel Brion, Cyan Abad, Jimmy Abad, Dean Alfar, Nikki Alfar and Tots Aguila, Ambassador Preciosa Soliven, Champagne Barons de Rothschild managing director Federic Mairesse, Titania Wine Cellar, Inc. chairman Tita Trillo, restaurateur and writer Glenda Barretto, Journalist and book author Julie Yap-Daza, late Angelo Reyes spokeswoman and ABS-CBN Director for Artists Relations Patricia Daza, Manila Broadcasting Company board of director, DZRH Senior Vice President and former Station Manager Joe Taruc, Tina Panganiban Perez, entertainment reporter Mario Dumawal, Ed Lingao, Tony Velasquez, Faye Tobias-Naval, Justine Espina-Letargo, interior designer Michelle Dumlao-Pastoral, Cebu City Councilor Margot Osmena, Dita Sandico Ong, Raymund Y. Katigbak, Ramon Santiago, Miko Palanca, Veronica Scott, Bullet Manila Inc. Director Robbie Dinglasan, Unilever PR team Cheskie Ayson, “Sunsilk” assistant brand manager Cristina Cu, Verniece Enciso, Abby Asistio, Doro Barandino, Maris Holopainan, Fremont Base, Hope Solano, Menchit Martinez, “Zara”’s Muchy Lavina, Danica Valdez Lloren, Dewi Valientes, Nicole Li, Hazel Yap, Stephanie and Carlo Villarica, Michael Yu, Kryz Uy, Gretchen Uy, classical dressage French master and Tarsier Botanika trainer Bernard Chairis, Tarsier Botanika owners and founders Patricia and Nicolas Moussempes, former United States Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, Queen Sofia of Spain, Hollywood actor Antonio Banderas, Former United States Secretary of State Dr. Henry Kissinger, Chelsea Clinton-Mezvinsky, Melanie Griffith, World War 2 survivor Leopoldo Bautista, WWII documentary writer Peter Parsons, Spyron-AV Manila's Lucky Guillermo, Veterans Federation of the Philippines president Col. Emmanuel de Ocampo, executive vice president Col. Francisco San Miguel, Christopher Kolakowski, James Zobel, PVB board secretary Federico Manalo, Peter Parsons, Lucky Guillermo, Daineila Azanza and father Fritz Azanza, Chiarra Alcazar, Max Mendiola, Gabby Mondragon, Patricia Coronel, Gianeen Cinco, Missy Payumo, Karla Llamas and Nikki Mendoza, Celina del Rosario, Mai Castel, Baci Herrera, Marian Garciano, Amalie and Sharon Azanza, Kathie Webb, Pablo and Rorie Manzano, Sophia Mapua, Samantha and Joaquin Azanza, JV Librea, Anton Cudiamat, Carlo and Isabela with BJ Albert, Marty and MJ Albert, Carlo and Monique Lopez, Raffy and Rina Llamas, Ana Abad Santos with her son Tommy Bitong, Auto Nation Group, Inc. AVP for sales Anthony Lao, Wilcon Depot executive project manager Arnold Ologuin, architect Romy David, architect Julian Confesor, Jojo Salcedo, architect Ric Mongalo, Sharon Cuneta Pangilinan, Former Lanao Del Norte Rep. Aliah Dimaporo Cimafranca, PR director and restaurateur Celine Gabriel Lim, development worker Agnes Silva, Precious Hipolito, Tess Santos Coffill, Djila Winebrenner, Robert Blancaflor, Gertie Batocabe, housewife Melba Eduardo Solidum, Leonarda Capuyan, Baguio City councilors Betty Lourdes Tabanda, Elaine Sembrano, Elmer Datuin, SM regional operations from NL1 Cesar Bondoc, SM City Baguio mall manager Marc Janssen Pe, "Easter Weaving" manager Virginia Dollgas, "Ibay's Silver Shop's" Evelyn Ibay, "Ron and Mar"'s Hermelita Tundagui, Botanika Nature Residences sales director Eric Geronimo, sales manager Sam Villamin, sales consultants Lani Moreno and Tetet Leuterio, sales manager Faye Bellosillo, sales director Catherine Mananquil, area sales head Jay Visco, Sophia and Yoli Ayson, Stella Limcaco, Ilene Limcaco, Ceci Limcaco, Conli Agcaoilo, Flor Inosa, Richard Limcaco, Joan Chung, Angelique Perfecto, Yvonne Carlos, Lizza Reyes, Mimi and Reuben Valerio, Jay Visco, MSE Music Ensemble, Jim Donovan, Jimboy Dulay, Freddie Borromeo and Angelo Licaros, MPC president Violeta Gallego-Kramer, Brand Gateway Inc. CEO Gabriele Boschi and his wife Julie, Anne Gonzalez, Karrie Bitanga, SM Hotels and Conventions Vice President for Marketing Neil Rumbaoa, Cathay Pacific Airways assistant marketing manager Rhoda Capuno, Dennis Palomar, Epy Quizon, Dominic Ochoa, Aiza Marquez, Maoui David, Anna Larrucea, Basil Ong, Paul Ureta, former GMA Network, Inc. vice president for Corporate Communications and BSR Public Relations Company, Inc. Chairman and CEO Butch Raquel, interior designer Tess Vargas, obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Rebecca Singson, Jerry Garcia, Joseph Barril, Benny Lim, Tony Bueno, Manuel Collantes, Rev. Fr. Corsie Legaspi, Vanlyl Fajardo and Yuan Susano, Rev. Fr. Ed Abanilla, Eduardo and Maria Therese Veloso, George Aznar and Celsa Marquez, Donillo and Cecilia Suano, Resty Santos, Dorothy Pastor, Leah Suano, Benjamin Joseph Garcia, Amapola Garcia, Queenie and Dara Suano, Fuchia Inot, Louise and Novo Suano, Glenn de Lara, Paul Arabes, Joselito and Ethel Enage, Nathaniel Santiago, Jean Arriesgado, Niel and Cecille Suano, Alejandro Diongzon, Rafael Aguilar, Adela Williams, Paquita Pastor, Ricardo Purog, George and Sylvia Liok, Nora Salazar, Cherry Reyes, Tonyboy and Susan Rodriguez, Kiting and Daisy Moro, Martin and Marisol Montenegro, Tony and Grace Lozada, Alberto and Tere Rotaeche, Manoling and Ana Garcia, Shewak and Nima Mangharam, Bingen and Annette Mendezona, Joe Utzurrum, Ato Alvarez, Efren Valiente, Ed Dakay, Joe Suaco, Aida Uy, Jose Ramiro, Susana Carpio, Dr. Rolando Enricuso, CHRC president Renato Avila, Former Palawan Governor Baham Mitra, Mario Hernando, Nestor Cuartero, Ronald Constantino, Mario Bautista, Isah Red, Aster Amoyo, TAPE, Inc. Senior Vice President & COO Malou Choa-Fagar, Bacoor City Mayor Lani Mercado, movie producer Marichu ‘Manay Ichu’ Vera-Perez Maceda, Betchay Vera-Perez Nakpil, uncle Kokoy, brothers Erwin and Edmund, plus nephews and nieces, Dra. Gel Lazaro, Dr. Rodolfo Delos Reyes, Ian Fariñas, Jojo Gabinete, Jerry Olea, Gorgy Rula, Norma Japitana, Emma Guevarra, Paul Cabral, image consultant, fashion stylist Eric Pe Benito, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts Director of Operations and Special Projects and Hotel Jen Headquarters director of special projects Golden Whitehead, movie and TV producer and KB Entertainment Unlimited, Inc. and New Riviera Hotel Development Corporation chairwoman and CEO Kitchie Benedicto-Paulino, World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA) Philippine team: actress, WCOPA National Director and talent manager Ida Henares, and WCOPA Philippines event organizer Mike Chiong, balikbayan-writer Baby K. Jimenez, Dara Diana Relleve, Jean Flores Lagazon, Mercy G. Masangcay, Jonas Cruz Levy, Oscar Valera Jr., Pablo Tariman, Simon Santos, Teena Maria Arguelles Liwanag, Gino George, Abigail Legaspi Palad, Yddah Marfil Guico, Priscilla Lagazon, Cynthia Alzona Mance, Bing Confiado Manalo, Noel Limos, Teresita Villarama, Glory L. Yulo, Penny Mapile, JomJoy Sombilon, Liz Levy Facher and George Levy, artist and “STARart” project founder Nikki Luna, Sports5 football analyst and football commentator, coach and model Mikee Carrion, fashion show director Ariel Lozada, chef Florabel Co, Isaac Reyes, Carlo Antonio, Stephanie Coyiuto-Tay and Joseph Tay, Andrea Bonardi of Moroso, Alessandro Abate, Tennyson and Teresa Chen, Chico and Shereen Sy, Paulo Oga. Fuentes Publicity Network Inc. President & CEO and International Public Relations Association board member Edd Fuentes, Chef Emer Ibabao, Ella Dimalanta, “STAR” exchange journalist from New Zealand Jonathan Carson, West end star Joanna Ampil, jewelry designer Arnel Papa, artists Betsy Westendorp and Leeroy New, ANFLOCOR Group of Companies president and CEO Alex Valoria, Alabang Town Center and TriNoma general manager Mark Sablan, Ayala Malls Group Department Manager and Ayala Center Makati general manager AC Legarda-Ocampo, Ayala Land Inc. Commercial Business Group senior division manager Joseph Reyes, Ayala Land vice president Javier Hernandez, Bonvests Holdings Limited Property Marketing Executive Charisma Comia, Ayala Malls operations manager and Glorietta general manager Mitch Dumlao, two hundred employees and partners of Brother International Philippines Corporation led by Brother International Philippines Corporation president Glenn Hocson, and Deputy General Manager for Sales and Marketing Masao Kasagi, Isao Noji, General Manager of the Sales and Marketing Department handling Asia Pacific and Japan, and the Global Marketing Department of Brother Industries Ltd.; Yumiko Iwadare, General Manager of the Sales and Marketing Department handling the US and Europe of Brother Industries Ltd.; Takao Shima, Manager for Sales and Marketing for Japan and Asia Pacific of Brother Industries Ltd.; Masakazu Goto, Senior Team Manager of the Sales and Marketing Department handling the US and Europe of Brother Industries, Ltd.; Shinji Tada, Managing Director, ASEAN, of Brother International Singapore Pte. Ltd.; Brother Industries, Ltd. managing executive officer Takafumi Kamenouchi, Lapulapu City Mayor Paz Radaza, Yvette Vass, Kumiko Onda and Arcy Gayatin, Jamie Dichaves, Robin Sy, Co Ban Kiat Hardware, Inc. chairman and president Johnny Cobankiat, Philippine Bank of Communications director Ralph Nubla, Jr., Supima Holdings, Inc. president Bunsit Carlos Chung with Co Chin Sam, Chinese Filipino Business Club, Inc. president emeritus George Lee, Ricardo and Dolores Cobankiat, Atillano Co Chin Hua, Juanita Co, Luis Co and Co Chin Wee, Co Ban Kiat Hardware vice president for sales and marketing Jan Vincent Cobankiat, Co Ban Kiat Hardware vice president for IT and logistics Jan Wesley Cobankiat, Bunsit Carlos Chung, Aida Cobankiat, Mary Go Ng, Charlene Cobankiat-Tiu, Johnny Litton, Distilleria Limtuaco & Company, Inc. Chairman and CEO Olivia Limpe-Aw, Virgie Tiong and Annabelle Lee, China Bank’s Cay Solomon, Tina Gotuaco and Eye Ramos of China Bank, Lilian Khu, Montiel de los Santos, Jeanette Javellana Hazel Bontuyan and Jeffrey Ang, Lily Huang, Jeanne Ching, Joel Yee, Robin Sy, Delfin Letran, Eduardo Uy, Luis Tiu de Jesus, Robert Ong, Beta Electric Corporation president Efren Gancayco, James and Jeremy Tiu, Mary and Pedro Tan, Lawyer Dante Diaz, Jose Ngaw and Dr. John K. Tan, Henry and Evangeline Lim, Oishi’s “Team O” members Slater Young and Ramon Bautista, Nini Licaros, Xavier Btesh, Maurice Arcache, Philippine Cancer Society Executive Director Dr. Rachel del Rosario, Petron Corporate Affairs Assistant Vice - President and Petron Foundation General Manager Charmes Canillas, Seasoned advertising professional and Kidzania Manila Minister of Tourism (Family and School Sales Head) Rudy Villar, Jr., Irene Chingcuangco, Emie Dela Fuente Rodriguez, Philippine Daily INQUIRER Senior Vice President and INQUIRER Group of Companies Group Sales Head Pepito Olarte, McDonald’s Philippines Senior Vice President for Marketing and Communications Margot Torres, Rommel Ong, Dothy De Dios Pedralvez, Camille Ballo-Toledo, Marie Asistio Angeles, Emanuel A. Soriano, Jr., Ricky Pena, Chinky Remulla, Lenovo Mobile Philippines Business Unit Head John Rojo, PANA Executive Director Digna Dator-Santos, Nestlé Philippines Director of Communication and Marketing Services Sandra Puno, Ruth Perez, Teresa Cruz Segundo, Yang-Yang Turrecha, Stephen Ngo, Lydia Go, Samsung Philippines Head of Mobile & IT Business Hiebert Dimagiba, Google Philippines Head of New Business Sales Aitor Gomez Maguregui, and Max’s Group Director of Marketing Mark Gamboa, Michelle Veneracion, Mariel G. Batad and Junae Diaresco Ortega, Philgear International Inc. AVP Toti Wong, Boxfresh regional brand manager Leslie Santos, Charmaine Tan, Ken Co, and Luke Polintan, Brent Javier, Janna Tee, Sean De Dios, Gus Albor, Hermes Alegre, Nunelucio Alvarado, Ricky Ambagan, Max Balatbat, Malyn Bonayog, EJ Cabangon, Mel Cabrina, Choie, Dansoy Coquilla, Nill Cruz, Joseph de Juras, Abi Dionisio, Ferdinand Doctolero, Neil Doloricon, Billy Francisco, Dennis Filart, Grandier, Fitz Herrera, Jun Impas, Ferdinand Liongoren, Josue Mangrobang Jr., Bobby Nuestro, Tiny Nuyda, Sam Penaso, Dicky Santos, Eman Servito, Eghai Roxas, Kirby Roxas, Lirio Salvador, Olan Ventura, Orley Ypon, Tony Alcoseba, Jaime Gubaton, Ronald Jeresano, Peter Sutcliffe, Angelito “Jo” Florendo, Egai Fernandez, Pablo Baen Santos, Ambie Abano, Clare Alegado, Janet Balberona, Cathy Lasam-Ballo, Bru, Mica Cabildo, Con Cabrera, Kim Carlos, Marika Constantino, Grace Corpuz, Ranelle Dial, Karen Flores, Mayang Frigilllana, Dina Gadia, Angela Garrido, Sarah Gaugler, Eva Gubat, Alon de Guzman, Abi Jao, Helen Jose, Amihan Jumalon, Lea Lim, Lesley Lim, Michelle Lim, Raquel de Loyola, Kat Medina, Maan de Loyola, Jhoan Medrano, Donna Noda, May Tobias-Papa, Cheng Pimentel, Brenda Praico, Alma Quinto, Ling Quisumbing, Marga Rodriguez, Julie Cola Shen, Reine Shih, Yasmin Sison, Mimi Tecson, AJ Tolentino, Teta Tulay, Anna Varona, Shakira Villa, JJ Villamarin, Tanya Villanueva, Lauren Villarama, Influencer Bea Constantino, Brand Executive Alexis Lizares, Influencers DJ Nina, Yanna Cowper, and Jelito de Leon, Rosario and Victoria Herrera, Jasmine Maierhofer, StokedInc. Wahlne champion Daisy Valdez, StokedInc. surf ambassadors Gerard Cancio and Carla Sebastian, organizers Carla Rowland and Ian Zamora, Mark Bumgarner, racing driver Michele Bumgarner, National squash players Robert Garcia, Mac Begornia, Don Espinola and David Pelino, Kia Sorento player LA Revilla, DJ Jessica Milner, Pilita Corrales, Ali Sotto, Billy Crawford, Kean Cipriano and wife Chynna Ortaleza, Albert Martinez, Yassi Pressman, Mark Neumann, Assunta de Rossi, Simon Ibarra, TJ Trinidad, Ara Mina, Christopher de Leon, Mat Ranillo III, Rez Cortez, Perla Bautista, Richard Gutierrez, Arci Munoz, Niño Muhlach, Alonzo Muhlach, Edu Manzano, Daisy Romualdez; Miss Earth 2015 Angelia Ong; Boracay Sun editor in chief Freida Dario-Santiago, homemaker Looie Lobregat Ocampo, Ashleigh Rye, Carla Villanueva, Charina Sarte, Jessica Diaz Wilson, news anchor Ria Tanjuatco Trillo, Vicky Tensuan, Jocas de Leon, JP Morgan Chase and Company executive director Amanda Hornberger, Makati Rotary Club president Maila Garcia, jewelry designer Ofelia Nuñez-Wadle, Advance Paper Corporation president and COO Connie Haw, Advance Computer Forms, Inc. general manager Kim Haw, Anchor Land Holdings, Inc. president Beth Ventura, James Chi, Zumba Fitness and Zumba Sentao Instructor Marje Syjuco, Camilla Sundman, Dohme finance director Michael Chiusolo, Ayna Ong, 3D Vizion president and CEO Katrina Bantug, pianist Serla Russel, Dr. Jazel Anne Agnes, Dr. Jose Aquino, interventionalist Dr. Adan Hadzlomerovic, Dr. Alexander Palanca, Dr. Jazel Anne Agnes, Junar Quimpo, RJ Segarra, Richard Amigo, National Peace and Order Maintaining Council Deputy Chief and Royal Thai Navy Chief Narong Pipattanasai, blogger Khai Nunag, Asia World Properties Philippines Corporation president and former University of the Philippines regent Nelia Gonzalez, Tessie Gonzalez, Commission on Higher Education commissioner Nona Ricafort, Marc Ocampo-Tan, Timothy Ocampo-Tan, Emeline Coyiuto-Ocampo-Tan, Elisa Coyiuto-Lim, Sen. Cynthia Villar, James Coyiuto and Nathalie Coyiuto-Lim, Jingle Badelles; chef Melissa Sison; Ging Dy, Vince Lozano; and Young Nieva, Batangas City Tourism Officer Ed Borbon and LEIPC Officer Erick Sanohan, Ed Borbon, Atty. Ro Dimacuha and Louise Borbon, Cynthia Martinez and Evelyn Periña, Sonny Tanchanco, MSO Marketing Manager Carlos Garchitorena, director and writer JP Tanchanco, Frank Shaw, Dr Kimberly Patterson, Rebecca Schlappich, Danielle Kuhlmann aka Cultures in Harmony, MSO President Maan Hontiveros, Liter of Light COO Ami Valdemoro, Asian News correspondent Carsten Stormer, Valerie de Guzman, MSO Executive Director Jeffrey Solares, Ado Escudero, Rosalie Escudero Blume, sister-in-law Millie Escudero, nephew Dondon Escudero, Cora Relova, John Gaddi, Dr. Louella Gonzalez-Santos, Union Bank Foundation's Maria Gonzales-Goolsby, Cindee Teves Jacobs, Philippine Federation of Business and Professional Women treasurer Edith Co, Dennis and Rose Teves, Lily Lim, Juliet Dy, PhilConsA vice president Alfred Ching, former Quezon City 2nd District Rep. Mary Ann Laborero-Susano, Chinese General Hospital chair Dr. James Dy, Rev. Fr. Allan Rieger, ERDA Tech's Dean Rudy Ang, Soroptimst officers Dr. Ligaya Tankeh and Cely Ng, Cora Villareal, Linda Marquez and Ruben Villareal, Rico Lardizabal, former Antique governor Sally Zaldivar-Perez, Dick Escalona, Nelia Gonzalez, Bessie Escalona, Philconsa's Rufino Tan, Dina Aquino, Eli Lilly's poultry expert and veterinarian Dr. Meliton Novilla, Dr. Mario and Eva Labadan, Joao Branquinho and architect Stephanie Tan-Branquinho, Sylvia Reynoso-Gala, Ernest and Luis Gala, lawyers Val Sanchez and Lee Verceles, "Zalora" Philippines' Gigi Mabanta, "Chatime" director Johnyan Koa, Retired Major General Jose Mabanta, "Fonterra"'s Fel Billones, chef Pauline Lagdameo, "Fonterra"'s food service director Leah Barin, Joey and Marissa Orosa Concepcion, Cathy Narcisco and coach Jong Uichico, BHS operations manager Nina Guerrero, French Baker founder and CEO Johnlu Koa, “Serendra” general manager Joel Reyes, Josh Knight, Chris Walsh Jr., Antoine Guyon, Ashley Dragan, Ryan Williams and Samantha Humphires, "Regatta" associate brand manager Ira Sarmiento, brand director Ronnie Celestial, Todd Forney, University of the Philippines Mountaineers Janet Belarmino, MEGA, Inside Showbiz, Travel Now, Appetite Publisher / Sales & Marketing Manager Ryan Ros Calmante, “PeopleAsia”’s Jose Paolo dela Cruz and Ramon Ruiz, "Regatta" marketing specialist Emille de Vera, Isabel Lopez-Vera Cruz, Jaet Emmrich, Paula Borges, golfers Jun Roque, Carol Matsuda, Jill Raymundo, Joanne Cortez, Ikuo Nishino, Steven Ferrer, Arnel Paraz, Gino Bonifacio, Domingo Bonifacio, MDI Group chairman and Wolfpac Mobile, Inc. founder Myla Crespo Villanueva, Kelly Misa, Chairman of the Board and Independent Director of 2GO Group, Inc., honorary consul to Peru and Honorary President of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. Francis Chua, Art Informal, Art Inday, Art Wednesday, Blanc, Bulacan Artists Group, Galeria de las Islas, Galerie Astra, Grupo Ocho, Kalinawa Art Foundation, L’Arc en Ciel, Nineveh, Philippine Association of Printmakers, FEATI, FEU Fine Arts, U.P. College of Fine Arts, Slash Art/Tin-Aw, visual artist, educator, and cultural worker Alma Quinto, Toto Tarrosa, University of the Philippines Integrated School assistant professor Anton del Castillo, Lory Medina, Carlito Ortega, Frederick Epistola, Batangas 4th District Rep. Mark Llandro Mendoza, Quezon 1st District Rep. Wilfrido Mark M. Enverga, Abono party-list Rep. Conrad Estrella, Edwin Galvez, Renel Cecillio, Meryll Yan, Len Davies, Christophe Joyeux, Ron Tolentino, Che Villena, Antonio Oposa Jr., Bo's Coffee Club founder and CEO Steve Benitez, Atlanta Festival Ballet Company and Atlanta Festival Ballet School Artistic Director Nicolas Pacaña, Engineer Patricio Primor, Elizabeth and Antonio Yap, Marikina City Rep. Bayani Fernando and former Marikina City Mayor Marides Carlos-Fernando, Homestay Philippines Inc. president Rose Libongco, former Vice President Teofisto Guingona Jr., Monique Zani, Pagoda Philippines, Inc. president Ernie Yu and civic-oriented Fe Leabres Yu, James Lau, Celia Cuasay, James Jao, Don Valerio, Gener Caringal, Arleen Ong, former Spanish Ambassador Tomas Rodriguez-Pantoja, Roland Reyes, Dennis Socrates, Jose Luis “Cel” Yulo, Bela Vasquez, Chu-Chu Madrigal and Mandy Eduque, AG&P board of director Cesar Buenaventura, homemaker Dada Lorenzana-Santiago, International portrait photographer Rupert Jacinto, Ping Valencia, Red Jacinto and Julie Hidalgo, Boots and Andy Soler, Nora Jacinto, Eddie and Katie Jacinto, Nanette dela Cruz, Africa Valdes-Reynoso, Emily Reynoso-Laws, landscape designer Bobby Gopia, former Department of Trade and Industry secretary Adrian Cristobal, Jr., Virginia Moreno, Carmen Guerrero Nakpil, Ramon Villegas, Kit Roxas, Jomari Trenas, Paulino and Hetty Que, Lori Ojeda, Msgr. Alberto Boongaling; Msgr. Rafael Oriondo; Fr. Raul Martinez; Fr. Ricardo Adan; Fr. Rogelio Meynardo Beredo; Fr. Greg Landicho; Fr. Luis Manuel Lucero; Fr. Roy Macatangay; Fr. Ernesto Mandanas; Fr. Godofredo Mendoza; Rad Lucas and Chi Calayag's spiritual adviser, Fr. Dennis Paez; Fr. Richard Panganiban; Fr. Eugene Peñalosa; Fr. Joseph Rodem Ramos; Fr. Wilfredo Rosales; and Fr. Noel Salanguit, Fr. Aloysius Buensalida, Visual artist and musician Aba Lluch Dalena, Al Perez, Josephine “Jing” Turalba, Lito Carating, Henri Cainglet, Andy Maluche, Thea Paz, Ronald Garcia, Shahid Zahid, Vicky Abad, Paulo Vinluan, Daisy Sison-Payumo; Nellie Bengzon; Chit Gohu, the Freeman Lifestyle editor Marlinda Angbetic Tan, Zonta Club of Cebu II Press Relations Officer Rosario Utzurrum, Chef Dietmar Dietrich, Theresa Alvarez, Evelyn Mate, Ina Sehwani, Rosary Palanca, Mila Llige, Victoria Ortiz, former executive assistant to the Press Secretary Maribel Carag-Dario, Bobby Novenario, ADAP president Dr. Socorro Martinez, “Preview Magazine” former managing editor Claire Bettita-Samson, fashion designer, magazine editor, film director and producer, businessman, and shoe and jewelry designer Christian Espiritu, equestrienne Mia Virata, Araneta Properties Inc. independent director Atty. Perry Pe, journalist and cultural advocate Bea Zobel Jr., Nikki Prieto-Teodoro, Linda Floirendo-Lagdameo, Iya Guingona Lagdameo, Gerard Walker, Andre Borromeo, J. Walter Thompson-Philippines former chairman Javier Calero, Mark Gilbert, Baudouin Denis, Fernando Ferrer, Al Camba, Melissa De Leon and sister Toni Abad, Rehab & Physical Medicine Specialist Dr. Tyrone Reyes, Fonterra Brands Philippines Marketing Manager for Anlene Ming Arroyo, professional pocket billiards player Django Bustamante, Jenny Peña, Make-up artist Patrick Rosas, “Paul Smith” boutique owner Juan Miguel Ongsiako and wife New Riviera Hotel Development Corporation COO Pia de Leon, board directors Paulo Paulino; Christine Paulino; Juliet Ferrer; Roger Rosales; Jhona Paulino; and Ruth Corcega, TV show and specials director Bert de Leon, film and television director and Star Magic Artist Training/Public Workshops head Rahyan Carlos, Wilfredo Manalang, Jr., actor, director and playwright Anton Juan, University of the Philippines Assistant Vice President for Public Affairs and Director of Alumni Relations Professor Jose Wendell Capili, Aleah Angeles, celebrity wellness and beauty Dr. Joel Mendez, Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) founding chairman Dante Jimenez; ABS-CBN business unit head Lui Andrada, Reyes Tacandong & Company chairman Manny Reyes, Universal Records Executive Vice-President Ramon Chuaying, “RockEd” (Philippines) founder Gang Badoy-Capati, Melinda Garcia, E-Talent International (Australia) and E-Talent Management and Entertainment (Philippines) CEO, Concert Producer & Promoter, Talent Manager and Singer-Songwriter Annabelle Regalado-Borja, singer-actor and eRDMMC Consulting, LLC Managing Director Roger Chua, Star Records’ promotions unit head and PR man Nixon Sy, concert producers WILBROS Live COO Glenn Llamas, Lactacyd Woman Team mates Bea Locsin, Kittelson and Carpo Consulting president and co-founder and KMC Solutions and KMC MAG Group co-founder Amanda Carpo and WILBROS Live Managing Director Winston Llamas, “STAR” contributor and Ateneo de Manila University Loyola Schools Interdisciplinary Studies Department Chairperson Assistant Professor Dr. Jonathan Chua, Leo Films producer Sixto Dy, Loida Bautista and Prof. Regina Banaag, Dale de la Cruz, Dreamscape Entertainment Business Unit Head and talent manager Deo Endrinal, Dreamscape Entertainment advertising and promotions head and talent manager Biboy Arboleda, ABS-CBN business unit head and director Ruel Bayani, TV host Amy Perez, Ken Pagaspas, Music Management International (MMILive) CEO and owner Rhiza Pascua, Marilu San Juan-Martirez, talent manager Shirley Kuan, celebrity, singer, film and stage actress, producer, television show host and former Movie and Television Review and Classification Board chairwoman Armida Siguion-Reyna, writer, actress, director and producer Bibeth Orteza, Loren Karunungan Disonglo Farmer, VIVA Films executive and Professional Artists Managers Inc. president and talent manager June Torrejon-Rufino; Viva Communications Inc. president and COO Vincent del Rosario; Lucia Santiago-Maisonneuve, Mary Joy de Leon Hans, Maricor Lustre, former model Anthea Robles, TV show directors Don Miguel Cuaresma and Ian Lorenos, Vicky Florendo-Montenegro, The Peninsula Manila retired social and public relations director Mila Magsaysay-Valenzuela, Teacher Naynay Ventura, Mars Chua, Mark San Diego, Josephine Knox, Ruthy Vera, Allen Arvin Tan and Jennifer Toledo, Rev. Fr. Emerito de la Rama, Vicente Tan and Joy Sia, Nicolas Pimentel, Agustin Palao, Pureza Dumancas, Evelyn Coronel, Ian Irving Tan, Michael Eric Go and Maria Theresa Mutia, Jose Albert Avila, Maria Liza Blessett, Levie Lim, Ann Marjorie Ong, Joanna Angheng, Inez Aznar, Carla Tiu, Tania Morada, Deborrah Cua Ho, Lourdes Arnado, December Chy, Calvin Gothong, Ryan Yu, Christopher Uy, James Go, Edric Tan, Emilio Pascua, Edward Onglatco, Gladys Llaban, Andie Noval, Marissa Unchuan, Leading Social Marketer, Research & Planning Director and Veteran Communication Strategist Brad Geiser, Nancy Ortiga, Annie Benitez, Jude Hipolito, Anna Marie Periquet, Reena Francisco, Aisa Yap, former Tagaytay Highlands general manager Nick Celdran, Globally Award-Winning Brand Architect Risk, Crisis & Reputation Strategist and Marketing & Communications Innovator Amor Maclang, Bobby Capco, Rocky Urbina, Corcor Bitong, Tess Villanueva, former Quezon City councilor Mike Planas, JC Cuadrado, Albert de Jesus, Ian Ramos, Mia Yan, Joseph Esmilla, Gina Medina, Dino Decena, Renato Lucas, Chris Millado, Katsch Catoy, Eric Cruz, Alex Cortez, Della Besa, Ana Maria de Guzman, Jaddy Vitug, Vince Abella, Greg Yu, Raffy Jose, Andy Jacinto, Lyka Ugarte, Lila Almario, Gabby Estrella, Tokie Tantoco, Margarita Yuchengco Locsin, Ian Tiongson, Rod Feliciano, Rogue Media Inc. Publisher Vicky Montenegro, Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte-Alurining, “Philippine STAR” columnist Joanne Zapanta Andrada, OFW rights advocate Susan “Toots” Ople, The Advent Manila Hospitality Group owner, economist, political analyst and "Manila Bulletin" business and political columnist Andrew Masigan and restaurateur Sandee Siytangco-Masigan, Philippine National Bank board of director, Rep. Mike Romero, Len Bautista-Horn, Ross Rica King and Darren Deen, Very Rev. Msgr. Adelito Abella, Rev. Fr. Regis Wan, Patrick Rosas, Ricarido and Rosalinda King, The Voices of Praise Choir, Robin and Luis King, Carlos Palanca III, Kazuie Hirose, Kazuo Wada, Lourdes Cacho, Grace Gonzalez, Haydee King, Victoria Tiu, Linda Chang, Former Pasig Mayor Mario Raymundo, Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno, Rizal 2nd District Rep. Isidro “Jun” Rodriguez, Pasig City 2nd District councilor Yoyong Martirez, former Labangan Mayor Abubakar Afdal, Muntinlupa’s Gender and Development Office (MGDO) chairperson and program director Trina Reyes-Biazon, Backroom Inc. vice-president Bettina Aspillaga, Club Bulakeño president Bernadette Lomotan, Henry & Sons Trading and Manufacturing Company, Inc. president Roberto Francisco, Amanda Huibonhua Sandoval, Abubakar Afdal, Rona Agustines, Jenny Ortega-Manguiat, Rachel Mercado, Kevin Limjoco, Roberto Francisco, Daniele Vastolo, Gil Miguel Puyat, Maridee Chanyungco, Celia Silang-Cruz, Rosanna Escudero, Sigrid Villamil, Jojo Silverio, Jenny Serrano, Noel Bautista, Lexi Schulze and Javi Berrenguer-Testa, Francisco Delgado, former Newtrends International Corporation president and general manager George Mirani, former Newtrends International Corporation general manager Murli Menon, Ben and Naida Yapjoco, Del and Marilou Ordoñez, Glenn and Glenn Westerman, Edwin Medalle, Rene and Girlie Sarmiento, Colette Goldstein, former ABS-CBN vice president for government, corporate Affairs and PR Maloli Espinosa Manalastas, "The 700 Club Asia" executive producer Kata Inocencio, Kakai Manotoc-Arroyo, Jane Franco, Dean Lina Liparanon, Fernando Peña, EDSA People Power Commission Vice Chairman Christopher Carreon, businessman Miguel Blardony, Tourism Undersecretary Ricky Alegre, Honorary Consul to Norway in Cebu Candice Gotianuy, Bunny Ludo-Alcordo, Zeny Deen, Socorro Protacio, Rev. Fr. Anthony Pabayo, Lynn Agustin, Ria Romero, Gloria Mara, Corcor Dizon-Bitong, photographer Francis Abraham, Bien Bautista, photographer Tom Epperson, Jun de Leon, Raymund Isaac, Lita Puyat, film/music video director, Vybe Entertainment chief marketing officer and Furball, Inc. director and partner Quark Henares, Filmex, Inc. film director Henry Frejas, film director, producer and film educator Mark Meily, indie and alternative director Raymond Red, Parikshit Bhasin, Ana Martha Moreno, Pastry Chef Sonja Ocampo, jeweler Ginger Ignacio, House of Laurel's Kathy Teves-Villanueva, Samantha Laurel, Vanessa Morales, Marge Marasigan, Ria and JP Castrillo, Anna Xerez Burgos, Erma Cuizon, Gingging Dumdum, Jovenir Bataican, Manuel Dumdum, Catherine Marie Castillo, Mayra Florencio, Viveva Singson, Edwin Bautista, Joseph Ortega Pollisco, Bayo's vice president Lynn Agustin, Sonny Bitong, Marichu Yap, Bridges@Com managing directors Nicole Jacinto and Franco Santos, Javier Marcalain (director, overall strategy development), Alexei Villaraza (director, media content), Bianca Fernandez (events manager) assisted by Angela Panlilio, Martha Gonzalez (media monitoring and analysis officer), accounts manager Angelica Lim with account officers Patricia Espino, Celine Viray, Javi Lebron and Bea Guingona, Goldilocks Bakeshop Marketing Director Pinky Yee, Chef Rolando Ongcoy, Shiv Hiranand, Rocco Puno, entrepreneur and surfer Jeff Ortega, Gaby Manas, Marco Yulo, Matt Laurel, Ava Daza, Katrina Razon, Julio Villafuerte, Michael Concepcion, Magsy Concepcion, Paolo Monasterio, Kevin Christian Sy, Marilen Elizalde, Cecille Ysmael, Rafa Alunan, Chris Feist, David Kaufman, Pinky Estrebillo and Yvette Lejano, Ayala Corporation head of public policy Tony Lambino, “Esquire” web editor Jonty Aquino-Cruz, Biz Whiz managing director Estelle Ople Osorio, Maynilad Water Services, Inc. CFO Randy Estrellado, McCann Worldgroup Regional Business Director Cia Hatzi, MRM/McCann Managing Director Manny Fernando, McCann Worldgroup Philippines Head of Strategic Planning Gino Borromeo, McCann Worldgroup Chairman and CEO Raul Castro and McCann Worldgroup Philippines Managing Partner Bernadette Chincuanco, McDonald's Philippines President and CEO Kenneth Yang, Coca-Cola ASEAN Business Unit President Manuel Arroyo, Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines President Cecile Alcantara, Coca-Cola Philippines President & General Manager Guillermo Aponte, McCann Worldgroup Asia-Pacific President Charles Cadell; Coca-Cola Philippines Vice President for Public Affairs & Communication Adel Tamano; and McCann Worldgroup Philippines Director for Business Development & Corporate Affairs Tricia Camarillo-Quiambao, 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, Coca-Cola FEMSA Commercial Unit Associate Director (Mindanao) Jay Justiniano, Coca-Cola Philippines Sparkling Category Marketing Manager Teejae Sonza, Coca-Cola Philippines Finance Director Eduardo Rearte, 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, Coca-Cola Bottlers (Philippines), Inc. national key accounts director Eric Montinola, Coca-Cola (Philippines) IMC senior sparkling content manager Jenny Cinco, Coca-Cola Philippines senior I-marketing manager Jacinto Gervasio, key accounts manager Herman Medina-Cue, marketing manager for Sparkling Flavors Jonah de Lumen, senior brand manager for Coca-Cola Derek Sotto, ACS Manufacturing Corporation founder, president and owner Engineer Alfonso C. Supetran and wife Lourdes Dacumos, relatives and closest friends from ACS Manufacturing Corporation, Adamson University, Mapúa Institute of Technology and Green Meadows Subdivision, City Delivery general manager Francis Dy, Golden ABC, Inc. Vice President for Sales Operations Dino Sagun, national sales diretor Marge Mankil, TAYO Awards Foundation Co-chairman of the Board of Directors Rollie Fabi, TAYO Awards Foundation Executive Director James de Vera, TAYO Awards Foundation President Aika Robredo, Lenovo Philippines country general manager Michael Ngan, Open Communications Inc. marketing manager and Lenovo Smartphones and Tablets brand marketing manager Patricia Paredes, sales director Nestor Remata, Open Communications product manager Alaena Rae Sy, Wave Mobile Inc. owner Paul Tinsay, Lenovo Philippines marketing communications manager Anna Abola, business unit head Juan Armando Rojo, Carlos Chan’s children Carlson, Archie, Rinby, Larry, Oszen and Shera Chan, Chef Tony’s general manager Anthony Elepano, social marketing manager Ashley Ang, “One FC” senior director for commercial development Maja Grimnitz, “One FC” CEO Victor Cui, “One FC” SVP and head of commercial partnerships Victor Chu, Asheesh Mandhyan, iPay Philippines president Eddie Lee, Timothy Roxas-Chua, Gerard Escay, Diageo “Reserve World Class 2015” participating bartender Antony White of Hooch, Monette and Mike Mapa, MM Vazquez, Jessica Tiongson, Bingo Manahan, Bea Munoz, Julz Savard, Timothy Pabillano Barnes, Ronald and Ruth Ventura, Rico Tan, Agustin Lamm, Liam Dames, Lia Ramos, Kevin Moss, Nana Caragay, Emi Jorge, Tricia Centenera, Moncef El Haddar, Doo Ona, Celine Weckerle, “Women's Health” editor-in-chief Lara Parpan, David Ludwig, Jun Poblador, Amiel Mendoza, Alex Tabtsov, Arthur Tseischchev, Mike Concepcion, Yvethe Santiago, Binibining Pilipinas Tourism 2014 Parul Shah, Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2014 Kris Janson, Archie Geotina, The Bellevue Hotels and Resorts (BH&R) marketing and communications corporate director Ryan Chan, The Bellevue Manila assistant marketing manager Mary Eunice Lodripas, The Bellevue Manila's Vue Bar supervisor Rizzy Lutz, F&B manager Vic Lammatao, The Bellevue Resort director of sales Weng Esteban, Peter Yabut, Joey Torres, “DEFY 123 Triathlon 2015” organization committee member Jerry Santos, Moby de Jesus, “DEFY 123 Triathlon 2015” organization committee member Teddy Tong, Norman Arteficio, Mariella Powell, Isa Isip-de Jesus, Mark del Rosario, “DEFY 123 Triathlon 2015” organization committee member Anthony Kierulf, Michelle Meer, Katrina Cruz, Betsy Medalla, Yvonne Colendrino, Coach Etch Verzola, Kali Kalalo, John Pangilinan, Jerry Evaristo, Mikki Quilala, Mike Advincula, Justine Bernabe, Franchesca de Guzman, Heish Lavina, Mel Abesamis, Bong Gonzales, Anthony Kierulf, Dondi Valdez, Sancho and Jammy Honrado, Liza Abesamis, Solar NRG Philippines’ Grigori Agriopoulos, Clarisse Chiongbian and Mike Cosenheim, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu executive sous chef Juanito Abangan, hotel manager Julie Najar, executive chef Stefano Verrillo, food and beverage manager Joward Tongco, former Marco Polo Plaza Cebu general manager Hans Hauri, fashion diretor Raymond Villanueva, Balletcenter Cebu artistic director Gregory Aaron, MPPC banquet service supervisor Cyrill Escurido, Dr. Vivina Chiu Yrastorza, Sandra and Jurgen Pesch, talent manager and film producer Atty. Joji Villanueva-Alonso, Expat Communications, Inc. president and managing director Butch Bonsol, “Expat” magazine editor in chief Agnes Abrau, Stylebible.ph Associate Fashion & Beauty Editor Zoe Laurente, Andrea Ang of L’officiel Manila, Gela de Dios of Starstyle, and Sarah Santiago of Megastyle; “Men’s Health” editor in chief Peejo Pilar and Amador Madamba; Top Gear Philippines publisher Jeff Reyes; and JP Calimbas, Richard Cunanan, Kit Payumo and Bert Casal of the Calibre team, Bambi Harper, Toby Gatchalian, Gicelle Himala, Edith Marquez-Reyes, Rebecca Daza-Sadhwani, Woman of all Seasons Bing Carrion-Buck, president and publisher of total PR Marketing and Communications company Seagull Philippines, Inc., Geoffrey Short, Jeremy Cliff, Mabey and Johnson’s Mr. and Mrs. David Forsyth, Lizelle Maralag, managing director of Starcom Worldwide; BBDO Guerrero/Ortega chairman David Guerrero; Campaigns and Grey former chairman Yolanda Villanueva-Ong; Masscom president Ed Cruz and EVP Raymund Timbol; Jon Timbol of Ace Saatchi, Ricky Jalbuena of DDB; Adobo magazine president & Editor-in-Chief Angel Lim Guerrero, Unilever Philippines, Inc. Vice President for Corporate Affairs Chito Macapagal and former chairman and president Howard Belton, Lilia Co and Beth Bravo, ambassador Toto Zaide, Unilever Philippines former environmental consultant Sonny Valencia, PAL Holdings, Inc. President and Chief Operating Officer Jaime J. Bautista, former HSBC deputy CEO Martin Cook, jewelry designer Victoria Marin, former Style Lab makeup artist Ivy Chang, former Metro magazine associate editor and YoU magazine editor-in-chief Stefanie Cabal, entrepreneur and design consultant Michele Periquet Jones, Haidee Benedicto and Rene Cayetano, Jr., Cebu City mayor Tomas Osmeña and Alice Cayetano McHugh, Helena Benedicto, Anita Siy, Lilian Benedicto, Reggie Ocampo, Antonio Arce, Enrilen Benedicto, Sarah Jane Florido, Jennifer Go, Maybelline Te, Ali Bernard Go, Lala Ticzon, Edward Onglatco, Cristina Lim, former Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry President, Philippine Ambassador to China, Singapore, South Korea, Brazil, Canada and India and Cebu Property Ventures and Development Corporation Independent Director Francisco Benedicto, former First Lady Amelita Martinez-Ramos, Dr. Angelina P. Galang, MSBF Chairman and President Chito Bertol, former Environment and Natural Resources Secretary, Presidential Adviser II on Climate Change and Philippine National Construction Corporation director Elisea Gozun and environment crusaders environmentalist Narda Camacho, former Unilab Consumer Health Division vice-president, Unilab Active Health vice president for operations and BioBalance Institute general manager Alex Fernandez, Josel Garcia, Unilab Consumer Health Operating Vice President Alex Panlilio, Division Vice President Joey Romana, Pediatrica Inc. Marketing & Sales Director Joey Peralta, Backy Baquiran and former colleagues from Unilab Consumer Health Division Mondelez Philippines Meals Category Manager, Michelle Ianne Gan, SEA and China Marketing Director, Meals Category (Cheese & Grocery) and Marketing 911 Online Community Founder and Administrator Carlo Licuanan and Franklin Covey Philippines Consultant Facilitator and Bean and Barley Manila marketing lead Xavier Paolo Reyes, former Unilever country communications manager Ed Sunico, Moving and Storage’s well-liked Brian Lane; plus other representatives of British companies in the Philippines, Sen. Kiko Pangilinan and daughter Frankie, Bea Binene, former Quezon 4th District Rep. Erin Tanada, Sen. Risa Hontiveros, Nonoy Zuniga, Boots Anson Roa-Rodrigo, Rosa Rosal and Toni Rose Gayda, William Thio, David Charlton, Mike Advincula, Dickie Bachmann, Drew Arellano, Raymart Santiago, Rovilson Fernandez, Tricia Chiongbian and Paolo Abrera, Robbie McEwen, Wilfred Uytengsu, Piolo Pascual, Gerald Anderson, Jake Cuenca, Enchong Dee, Matteo Guidicelli, Andrez del Rosario, Kyle Velino, Loren Burgos, AC Bonifacio, Yong Muhajil, Gillian Vicencio, Nico Antonio, Janus del Prado, Sarah Carlos, Kisses Delavin, Kyle Echarri, Veyda Inoval, Zaijan Jaranilla, Lance Lucido, Ysabel Ortega, Tommy Esguerra, Sam Shoaf, Erwan Heussaff, Adrien Semblat, Ryan Agoncillo, Bubbles Paraiso, DJ Sam YG, Gilbert Remulla, Sid Maderazo, Dyan Castillejo, Gretchen Fullido, Kim Atienza, Raffy Tima, Xander Angeles, Dingdong Dantes, Coach Rio de la Cruz, Kim Chiu, Solenn Heussaff, Isabelle Daza, apl.de.ap, Christine Jacob-Sandejas, Anthony Pangilinan, wife Maricel and daughters Hannah and Solana, Sen. Pia Cayetano, BDO Capital & Investment Corporation president Eduardo V. Francisco, director and treasurer of Rockwell Land Miguel Lopez, Bloomingdale’s Fine Jewelry Manager Leica Carpo, socialite Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Asia Brewery Inc. vice president for marketing Hubert Tan, CEOs and businessmen Ariana Khu, Bryce Maddock, Liloan, Cebu Vice Mayor Vincent Frasco, Raymund Martin Magdaluyo, Francis Miguel, Lance Watson, Joshua Schott, Gregory Karpinski, Century Pacific Food Inc Executive Vice President and COO Gregory Banzon, Mark Schwartz, Alex Wasilewski, Victor Consunji, Tom Navasero and Ironman Asia-Pacific CEO Geoff Meyer, Anthony Suntay, Duane Santos, Jovie Villar, James Younghusband, Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, ASEAN Law Association of the Philippines president and ACCRALaw founding partner and former Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz, Jr., former Supreme Court chief justice Artemio Panganiban and wife Leni, Virtuoso concert pianist Dr. Jose Artemio Panganiban III, Baron Travel Corporation president and CEO Marilen Sandejas-Yaptangco, Dr. Archie Panganiban, Professor Tet Mañalac, Metro Manila Community Orchestra executive director Chingay Diaz-Lagdameo, Zenas Lozada, Rosario Jurado-Benedicto, Lizzie and Mon Hermosura, ACCRALaw co-managing partner Gina Padilla-Gealdez, Atty. Alan Tantoco, Tim Yap, Rissa Mananquil-Trillo, Randy Precilla, Peter Hager, Ben Wintle, Phil Younghusband, Margot Garcia, Rhett Eala, Phoemela Baranda, former Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia Albert, Macay Holdings, Inc. Chairman and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Ambassador Alfredo Yao, Audrey Tan-Zubiri, Dolly Guanzon, lawyers Irene Garcia, Lorna Kapunan and Sonya Castillo of Kapunan, Garcia & Castillo Law Firm, multi-awarded furniture designer Kenneth Cobonpue and The Tinder Box owner Aziza Mondoñedo with Marlene Mondoñedo, Marie Lozano, Joey Mead-King and Ian King, Donna Cuna-Pita, George Gordon, architect Gil Coscolluela, Tad Abello, Aly Borromeo, Patrice Ramos-Diaz, Apples Aberin, Baba Parma, Ernie Lopez, Gutsy Tuason, Teddy Dario, Anton del Rosario, Leah Puyat, Ralby Tambunting, Marissa Tambunting, Anton Barretto, Eds Genuino, Angelette Calero, Henry Chan, Valerie Lim, Tonichi Nocom, JC Buendia, Izza Gonzales-Agana, Randy Ortiz, Suyen Chi-Sia, Henri Calayag, Trishan Cuaso, Aaron Isip, Cristalle Henares-Pitt, Jonathan and Stephanie Zubiri-Crespi, Keren Pascual, Anton San Diego, Mons Romulo, Arnold Vegafria, Ludovic Branellec, Bambina Olivares, Joanna Preysler Francisco, Abba Napa, Ben Chan, Noel Manapat, Miguel Pastor and Atty. Karen Jimeno.
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| Charo Santos-Concio, Noli de Castro, Eugenio Lopez III |
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| Johnny Manahan, Joel Mercado, Leo Katigbak, Girlie Rodis, Enrico Santos, Law Tan, Korina Sanchez, Pat-P Daza, Keren Pascual and Mariole Alberto |
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| Federico Garcia |
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Dra. Vicki Belo
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That edition also marked the annual gathering was screened in 4K ultra-high definition.
People who will troop to the Quirino Grandstand may bring an image of the Sto. Niño. The Cebu-based Sandiego Dance Company was also invited to perform the traditional Sinulog dance as a “welcome gesture” when Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI entered the Quirino Grandstand.
He also asked them to bring candles for the end of the Mass, when the crowd will sing the 1995 World Youth Day anthem, “Tell the World of His Love.”
“It will be more meaningful if we attend mass. Be one in praying for a safe celebration,” said Badong.
Pregnant women and those who are sick are being discouraged from joining the procession due to the expected big crowd.
Church officials earlier said that they expect the number of people who will participate in the different activities for the Feast of the Santo Niño de Cebú to exceed the ten million crowd of the previous year.
The Feast of the Santo Niño de Cebú usually draws millions of devotees from all over the world who walk with the image in procession barefooted as a sign of penance and thanksgiving for favors received.
It received international attention as news websites, magazines and newspapers including The New York Times, The Washington Post, Variety, BBC News, CBS News, Time, Al Jazeera, The Guardian, the Associated Press, ABC News, NHK, KBS, the Financial Times, and The Straits Times published stories on the annual largest religious gathering.
‘Slots’ are limited. The land facing Quirino Grandstand is roughly 2 hectares and will definitely be able to accommodate more than 5 to 10 million people.
During the World Youth Day in 1995, organizers of the papal mass thought of preparing a “Michael Jackson-like entrance” for Pope John Paul II when he appeared before the crowd.
Jimmy Policarpio, chief operating officer during the 1995 World Youth Day, said organizers considered the health of Pope John Paul II, who at that time was 74 years old and still recovering from an accident.
“Pope John Paul II had an accident. He had a total hip replacement a year before the event, so what we did was to make sure that all his movements would require less physical effort for him,” Policarpio recounted.
To bring Pope John Paul II up the stage, carpenters cut a rectangular hole in the floor of the Quirino Grandstand, just enough for the Holy Father to pass through. A seesaw elevator was used to raise the pope. The stage floor opened up and out came Pope John Paul II.
“I got this idea when I watched the Michael Jackson concert in Russia,” Policarpio said.
The Mass, which will be concelebrated by 600,000 priests and 5,500 archbishops, bishops, and cardinals, will be in English while the intercession will be in the same language.
Fr. Xavier Alpasa, S.J. the emcee of World Youth Day 1995 would be used in time for the World Youth Day celebrations here.
300,000-member choir
To lead the singing at the Rizal Park Mass is a 300,000-member choir composed of employees of companies, parish and college, school and university choirs and children of residential families from Metro Manila, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Abra, Apayao, Baguio City, Benguet, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Kalinga, Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Aurora, Bataan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Marinduque, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Palawan, Romblon, Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Sorsogon, Masbate, Antique, Aklan, Bacolod City, Guimaras, Iloilo City, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Bohol, Cebu City, Cebu, Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Biliran, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Northern Samar, Samar, Southern Leyte, Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Bukidnon, Cagayan de Oro, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Davao City, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Cotabato, Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Island, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi, joined by a choir of overseas Filipino and foreign residents, students and workers from Abkhazia, Afghanistan, Akrotiri and Dhekelia, Åland Islands, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bolivia, Brazil, Bonaire, British Indian Ocean Territory, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, Cayman Islands, Chile, China, Christmas Island, Clipperton Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Colombia, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Curaçao, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Egypt, Estonia, Federal Dependencies of Venezuela, Finland, French Guiana, French Polynesia, Gabon, Gambia, Gibraltar, Greenland, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guam, Guyana, 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, Réunion, Russia, Rwanda, Saba, Saint Barthélemy, 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 Andrés and Providencia, San Marino, São Tomé and Príncipe, 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, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tonga, Transnistria, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Turks and Caicos Islands, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States Virgin Islands, United States, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City, Venezuela, Yemen, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
To accompany the choir is a 300-piece orchestra. “There will be 60 musicians from the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, Manila Symphony Orchestra, ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra, and the UST Symphony Orchestra, plus a 60-member kids and youth orchestra.
“It would have been simpler to get choirs that have been performing together and one full orchestra to accompany the choir and congregation,” but the multiple lineup “is symbolic—it attempts to be inclusive and representative of as many parishes and institutions,” Francisco said.
The congregation need not worry about getting lost in translation. “Though multilingual, the refrains are quite simple,” Francisco said. “My rule of thumb is that the congregation should be able to pick up the tune after hearing the melody once.”
While the Cebu-Sandiego Dance Company will be performing the Aliwan dance at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila to welcome the visiting pope, the award-winning dance troupe will not skip on dancing during the Sinulog grand parade on Sunday.
Val Sandiego, choreographer and owner of the dance company, said they will make it a point that they can perform on the feast day, which has been a family tradition since its inception.
Sandiego said that when they were informed by the organizers, one of the problems that they had to come up with was the number of dancers because the activity falls on the same date.
“Among gitunga ang among dancers. Ang mosayaw sa Manila kay ang mga pioneer samtang sa Sinulog, ang manayaw kay mga bag-ong dancers,” said Sandiego, who is not just a staunch devotee of the Sto. Niño but a popular figure in Cebu for his great skills as choreographer.
The 200 will be dancing the basic Sinulog dance steps. Sandiego along with his wife Ofelia and their children will dance for the Pope. “Kay moadto man mi sa Manila, usa sa among gihuna-huna as to who will be the lead dancer for the Sinulog. Maayo na lang kay sa among paghangyo ni governor Gwen Garcia, wala gyud nibalibad ug misanong gyud dayon,” Sandiego shared.
The devotion to the Santo Niño (Holy Child) is the oldest and one of the most popular in the Philippines. When Miguel Lopez Legazpi landed on the island of Cebu in 1565, one of his soldiers found an image of the Child Jesus. It is believed to be the same statue Magellan had given to the wife of the chieftain of the island after her baptism. The image is venerated today in the Basilica in Cebu. For Filipino Catholics, the Holy Child represents a God who is accessible to all and can be approached without fear. The devotion instills the virtues of simplicity, obedience, and trust in God. At the same time, it calls for mature discipleship and loving service at all. (Cf. Supplement to the Roman Sacramentary for the Dioceses in the Philippines)
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 thousand,'' according to Velarde himself.
''They should declare the third Sunday of January a national holiday!'' exclaimed Elma Baldoz, 48, 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 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 January 1 to 31 birthday, sacerdotal anniversary, and wedding anniversary celebrants' celebrity guests were a little more blessed, as they partook of an eight-course lauriat.
Some of the celebrity guests are Carla Abellana, Susan Africa, Yayo Aguila, Marvin Agustin, Adrian Alandy, Angela Alarcon, Ivana Alawi, Sophie Albert, JC Alcantara, Kyline Alcantara, Bea Alonzo, Pinky Amador, Boots Anson-Roa, Christian Antolin, Nico Antonio, Angel Aquino, Kris Aquino, Robert Arevalo and Barbara Perez, John Arcilla, Ria Atayde, Rita Avila, Nikki Bagaporo, RK Bagatsing, Kira Balinger, Dani Barretto, Julia Barretto, Leon Barretto, Kris Bernal, Kathryn Bernardo, Bea Binene, Jameson Blake, Andrea Brillantes, K Brosas, Shamaine Buencamino, Yesh Burce, Austin Cabatana, Hasna Cabral, Iza Calzado, Elijah Canlas, Melai Cantiveros, Ella Cayabyab, Ryza Cenon, Ricci Chan, Dawn Chang, Kim Chiu, David Chua, Joshua Colet, Noel Comia Jr., KC Concepcion, Cai Cortez, Mahlou Crisologo, Sharon Cuneta, Anne Curtis, Carlos Dala, Dingdong Dantes, Enchong Dee, Armand De Castro, Jane De Leon, Glaiza de Castro, Michael de Mesa, Kokoy de Santos, Bianca de Vera, JC de Vera, Ashley Diaz, Francine Diaz, Charlie Dizon, Justin Dizon, Mylene Dizon, Robi Domingo, Chuckie Dreyfus, Kyle Echarri, Julie Eigenmann, PJ Endrinal, Bituin Escalante, Vivoree Esclito, Wize Estabillo, John Estrada, Kaila Estrada, KD Estrada, Jake Ejercito, Rhen Escaño, Heart Evangelista, Jaime Fabregas, Topper Fabregas, Seth Fedelin, Aya Fernandez, Chienna Filomeno, Radson Flores, Gabbi Garcia, Joshua Garcia, Alyssa Gibbs, Cherie Gil, Shanaia Gomez, Jay Gonzaga, Lexi Gonzales, Diego Gutierrez, Janine Gutierrez, Sheena Halili, Pepe Herrera, Barbie Imperial, Agot Isidro, Brent Javier, Luke Jickain, Keanne Johnson, Elisse Joson, Cedrick Juan, Richard Juan, Angela Ken, Helga Krapf, Maricel Laxa, Trina Legazpi-Jarina, David Licauco, Angel Locsin, Rio Locsin, Mara Lopez, Nadine Lustre, Maxene Magalona, Saab Magalona, Jolina Magdangal, Shaina Magdayao, Mac Manicad, Joseph Marco, Belle Mariano, Carmi Martin, Leo Martinez, Zanjoe Marudo, Rain Matienzo, Aya Medel, Alex Medina, Melissa Mendez, Aljon Mendoza, VJ Mendoza, Gabe Mercado, Jennylyn Mercado, Kim Molina, Mikoy Morales, Margaux Montana, Mosang, Arlene Muhlach, Alyssa Muhlach, Jerald Napoles, Hershey Neri, Miles Ocampo, Jane Oineza, Kaori Oinuma, Chynna Ortaleza, Mika Pajares, Daniel Padilla, Gabby Padilla, Gem Padilla-Thomas, Pamu Pamorada, Angelica Panganiban, Candy Pangilinan, Donny Pangilinan, Ian Pangilinan, Paolo Pangilinan, Benjie Paras, Bodjie Pascua, Piolo Pascual, Heaven Peralejo, Paula Peralejo, Rica Peralejo, Cherry Pie Picache, Vaughn Piczon, Camille Prats, Yassi Pressman, Precious Lara Quigaman, Patrick Quiroz, Maris Racal, Khalil Ramos, Miko Raval, Marvin Raymundo, Rissey Reyes, Marian Rivera, Raphael Robes, Ana Roces, Donita Rose, Janella Salvador, Maja Salvador, Sam YG, Julie Anne San Jose, Beatriz Saw, Sharlene San Pedro, Empress Schuck, Steven Silva, Liza Soberano, Fifth Solomon, Carmen Soo, Maricel Soriano, Paulina Sotto, G Toengi, Kakki Teodoro, Kaloy Tingcungco, Joel Torre, Dennis Trillo, Nikki Valdez, Adrienne Vergara, Nova Villa, Teetin Villanueva, Phoebe Walker, Maureen Wroblewitz, Lauren Young, Nomer Yuzon and Amanda Zamora, beauty queens Beatrice Gomez, Catriona Gray, Mela Habijan, Maria Isabel Lopez, Aurora Pijuan, Kylie Verzosa and Pia Wurtzbach, blogger Spanky Enriquez, celebrity chefs Gerick Manalo, Myke Tatung and Sharwin Tee, chef, blogger and vlogger Erwan Heussaff, drag queen Amadeus Pagente, host Kring Kim, models LA Aguinaldo and Kelsey Merritt, TV host Lyn Ching, model and TV host Bianca Gonzalez, model and activist Ella Eiveren Lubag, dancer Gabriel Valenciano, music producer, audio engineer, and music supervisor Otep Tumambing, singer-songwriters Lolita Carbon, Bullet Dumas, Jonathan Manalo, SAB, Gary Valenciano, Kiana Valenciano and Nyoy Volante, internet personalities Angel Dei Peralta, Mico Del Rosario, Arshie Larga, Gab Pangilinan, Sky Quizon and Pat Rigodon, comedians Macoy Dubs, Vice Ganda, Wacky Kiray, Pokwang, Michael V. and Loi Villarama, theater actor Phi Palmos, digital influencer and makeup artist Gabs Gibbs, social media / influencers and content creators Kate Adajar, Andrew Beso, Camille Co, Ivan De Guzman, Kaye Figuracion, Ina Garcia, Shai Habon, Kate Hizon, Inah Evans, Vien Ilagan-Velasquez, Mariela Kliatchko, JC Lopez, Ezra Mane, Jae Miranda, Kevin Montillano, Ira Denise Oyco, AK Policar, Patricia Prieto, Eugene Sayson, Christian Tiu and Kim Tapel, vlogger and content creator M.A. Buendía, YouTubers Lance De Ocampo, Kimpoy Feliciano, Rei Germar, Mimiyuuuh, Luigi Pacheco, Hannah Pangilinan, Bella Racelis, Adam Smith and Janina Vela, band groups Imago, Ben&Ben, Gracenote, Rivermaya, Moonstar88, Kontemporaryong Gamelan Pilipino – Iskomunidad, Music Hero Band, musical groups Ateneo Chamber Singers, Bukas Palad Music Ministry, Gloria Patri Singers, Hangad and Himig Heswita, musical duo Leanne & Naara, musical vocal group The Company, singer, actress and comedian Tuesday Vargas, singer and musician Bayang Barrios, singers Zion Aguirre, RJ Agustin, Ogie Alcasid, Renzo Almario, Jong Azores, Nikki Bacolod, Christian Bautista, Janine Berdin, Dan Billano, Rico Blanco, Ely Buendia, Lance Busa, Noel Cabangon, Bo Cerrudo, Jose Mari Chan, Sam Concepcion, Yeng Constantino, Johnoy Danao, Ebe Dancel, Jex de Castro, Nica del Rosario, Moira Dela Torre, RJ dela Fuente, Zephanie Dimaranan, Dani Dixon, Tippy Dos Santos, Frenchie Dy, Bituin Escalante, Darren Espanto, Hannah Hakami, Migz Haleco, Jason Hernandez, Danny Javier, Jaya, JMKO, Eunice Jorge, Jugs Jugueta, Kyla, Juan Karlos Labajo, Fatima Lagueras, Reese Lansangan, Kuh Ledesma, Celeste Legaspi, Mark Mabasa, Arkin Magalona, Leanne Mamonong, OJ Mariano, Jimi Marquez, Jeli Mateo, Leah Navarro, Elha Nympha, Miguel Ordon, Jim Paredes, Tim Pavino, Justine Peña, Sweet Plantado-Tiongson, Tosca Puno, Lance Reblando, Chloe Redondo, Jamie Rivera, Vic Robinson, Anthony Rosaldo, Rhap Salazar, Lea Salonga, John Mark Saga, Mika Salamanca, Paolo Sandejas, Erik Santos, Kowboy Santos, Sitti, Aicelle Santos, Mitch Valdes, Regine Velasquez, Lala Vinzon, Jona Viray, Young JV, Charlie Ysmael, Bianca Yuzon and Yanni Yuzon, songwriters Leila Alcasid, Fr. Arnel Aquino, S.J., Trina Belamide, Fr. Manoling Francisco, S.J., Fr. Junjun Borres, S.J., Fr. Vic Baltazar, S.J., Fr. Danny Isidro, S.J., Robert Labayen, Lui Morano, Fr. Nemesio Que, S.J., Fr. Felipe Fruto Ramirez, S.J., Rox Santos, voice actress Inka Magnaye, directors Mac Alejandre, Adolf Alix, Jr., Jay Altarejos, Carlo Alvarez, Mae Cruz-Alviar, Rica Arevalo, Lino Cayetano, Rica Arevalo, Bobby Bonifacio, Jr., Quark Henares, Jose Javier Reyes, Mike Dagnalan, Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, Adrian Calumpang, Ditsi Carolino, Don Miguel Cuaresma, Sari Dalena, Ice Idanan, Sheron Dayoc, Trina Dayrit, Khavn De La Cruz, Wills Dela Cruz, Zig Dulay, Ellen Ongkeko-Marfil, Irene Villamor, Lawrence Fajardo, Jolly Feliciano, Will Fredo, Dante Nico Garcia, Antoinette Jadaone, Jeffrey Jeturian, Joel Lamangan, Albert Langitan, Yam Laranas, Jason Paul Laxamana, Ed Lejano, Jim Libiran, Roderick Lindayag, Erik Matti, Pancho Maniquis, Brillante Ma. Mendoza, Treb Montreas, Nuel Naval, Emmanuel Palo, Roman Perez Jr., Andoy Ranay, Mikhail Red, Rae Red, Raymond Red, FM Reyes, Mandy Reyes, Keith Sicat, Carlos Siguion-Reyna, Jojo Saguin, Rod Singh, Auraeus Solito, Paolo Tabuena, Petersen Vargas, Dan Villegas, Paolo Villaluna, Victor Villanueva and Baby Ruth Villarama, screenwriter Elmer Gatchalian, screenwriter and songwriter Vincent de Jesus, broadcast journalist and songwriter Lolito Go, entertainment columnist Dolly Ann Carvajal, newscaster Gani Oro, radio personalities Karla Aguas, Rammy Bitong, DJ Chacha, Tin Gamboa, Boom Gonzalez, DJ Jhai Ho, Vino-R, Migs Santillan and DJ Suzy, theater actresses Astarte Abraham and Jenny Jamora, theater artists Adrian Lindayag, Chamyto Aguedan, Jay Barrameda, Lance Reblando, Nar Cabico, Phi Palmos, Nelsito Gomez, Robbie Guevara, Fred Layno, Joseph Dela Cruz, Rolando Inocencio, Jep Go, Sarah Facuri, Arman Ferrer, Tanya Manalang-Atadero, Mark Tayag, Floyd Tena, Rallion Abeledo and Reb Atadero, vlogger and TikTok personality Pipay, producer and talent manager Noel Ferrer, talent managers Boy Abunda, Erickson Raymundo, Freddie Bautista, Popoy Caritativo, Malou Choa-Fagar, Rams David, Dolor Guevarra, Harley Tan, Henry Quitain, Ronald Monteverde, Ronnie Henares, Roselle Monteverde, Tyrone Escalante, Kate Pepito, Pia Magalona, Paula Punla, Rex Belarmino, Rina Reyes, Mau De Leon, Miguel Pacio, Ogie Diaz, Shirley Kuan, Perry Lansigan, Keren Pascual, Leo Dominguez, Manny Valera, Mario Colmenares, Jojo Ampeloquio, Jonas Gaffud, Joseph Moradas, Kat Aguila, Dingdong Avazado, Jessa Zaragoza-Avanzado, Dudu Ranay, Eric Arroyo, Biboy Arboleda, Brilliant Juan, Chinie Go, Dave Salindog, Atty. James Domingo, Atty. Joji Alonso, Aurora Ada Mendoza, Avel Bacudio, Anthony Pangilinan, Arnee Pangilinan, Arnold Vegafria, William Tan, Abby Niesta, Allan Altera, Annabelle Rama, Annie Tajanlangit-Mercado, Girlie Rodis and Vania Padilla-Edralin, basketball coaches Yeng Guiao and Chot Reyes, basketball players Christiana Dimaunahan, Dave Ildefonso, Kiefer Ravena, Johnny Abarrientos, Jojo Lastimosa and Olsen Racela, esports player Gia Llanes, fitness instructor and adventure racer Florentino Narciso, football player Camille Rodriguez, jump rope coach Aira Franco-Capistrano, volleyball analyst Mozzy Crisologo-Ravena, volleyball players Kathy Bersola, Maruja Banaticla, Ponggay Gaston, Pia Gaiser, Jeushl Tiu, Kathy Bersola, Tots Carlos, Bea de Leon, Alyssa Eroa, Ayel Estrañero, Jem Ferrer, Carly Hernandez, Rex Intal, Denden Lazaro-Revilla, Maddie Madayag, Ysay Marasigan, Jia Morado, Ish Polvorosa, Joshua Retamar, Mika Reyes, Kat Tolentino, Chie Saet, Cherilyn Sindayen, Carmella Tunay, Alfred Valbuena, Alyssa Valdez and Deanna Wong, retired sports commentator and columnist Ed Picson, sports commentators Nikko Ramos and Sev Sarmenta, sports reporters and hosts Apple David, Carla Lizardo, Angelique Manto and Aiyana Perlas.
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.
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 P 65 each. ''This is my own way of thanking the Lord, and also my birthday gift to Brother Mike,'' Mallonga said.
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 heaviest downpour came at 4:30 p.m. just before President Duterte arrived. The rain lasted for 10 minutes and sent people rushing for cover under stalls, trees, umbrellas, and large pieces of plastic.
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.
Political banners and streamers had reportedly been prohibited, and there were none in sight. One such streamer which slipped through the crowd was abruptly taken down.
The much-touted free meals of roasted pig, calf, and chicken were served around 11 a.m. In less than an hour, all of the 11 roasted calves 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 that were only half-cooked.
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.
Security nightmare
When two helicopters 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.
Velarde told newsmen he spent ''a few million'' on the handkerchiefs and other freebies and props, including balloons and white pigeons.
From the Apostolic Nunciature on Taft Avenue, the Pontiff arrived at Malacanang Park aboard the Popemobile at 4:20 p.m., where he was greeted by the families of members of the Presidential Security Group.
They waved copies of his photograph and raised rosaries and images of Jesus Christ and the Blessed Mother for his blessing.
He then boarded the helicopter along with Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle.
The President arrived at the back of the grandstand on board the same helicopter at exactly 4 p.m. He was accompanied by his daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, and Ambassador Lolita R. Haney.
The three-and-a-half-hour Mass, earlier set at 3:30 p.m., did not begin until past 5.
The World Youth Day closing liturgy is thought to be the largest congregation ever assembled at a single site for a Mass. Vatican officials claimed it was the largest gathering, the Pope has seen in his 2,502 days, 14 hours, 54 minutes, and 0 seconds or 6 years, 10 months, 5 days, 14 hours, 54 minutes or 82 months, 5 days, 14 hours, 54 minutes papacy.
The pope was visibly awed by the spectacle of more than 4 to 10 million people covering the whole of Luneta Park and stretching out as far as he could see from the elevated altar at the park grandstand. For a moment, the pope was motionless as he stared out at the mammoth crowd, but his lips quivered.
Tens of thousands more had lined the streets on the three-kilometer route from the Apostolic Nunciature to Luneta Park, hoping to catch a glimpse of the pope as he passed in the custom-made “popemobile.”
Upon arrival and upon departure from the Quirino Grandstand area, Pope Francis rode his popemobile from the Apostolic Nunciature to the Malacanang Park was forced to use a helicopter to get to the Quirino Grandstand after an estimated eight billion people who came to attend the final Eucharistic Celebration made the Port Area, Intramuros, Rizal Park, Paco, Ermita and Malate roads, Cultural Center of the Philippines and SM Mall of Asia Complex impassable for land vehicles and went around the crowds – blessing, waving, even shaking hands and kissing babies.
Cardinal Tagle, Bishop Mylo Vergara, and the Papal Visit and World Youth Day Organizing Committee, along with Buhay Makulay Productions, Inc., NEP Group, Inc., Pro Beatbox Entertainment Concept Corporation, Mi3 Event Services, Audiotronix Professional Sound and Light System, event producer Robby Carmona of SAGA Events, ABS-CBN Events, Star Events, stylist Noel Manapat, and Keren Pascual deserve the highest commendation for preparing the Rizal Park papal concluding mass event.
Singing in the background was a 3,000-member choir, accompanied by a 300-piece symphony orchestra, led by a Franciscan father at the north side.
President Duterte and his family, their predecessors and members of Cabinet, and personalities from all sectors attended the Papal Mass as announced but he kept very much in the background, seated and waited at the Grandstand to greet the Pope before he boarded the helicopter back to the Malacanang Park.
Vice President Leni Robredo also greeted the Pope after Duterte.
Two hundred bishops and 3,000 priests concelebrated the Papal Mass; 300,000 lay ministers distributed communion in an orderly fashion under a white umbrella.
Cardinal Tagle, Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo, Papal Nuncio Gabriele Giordano Caccia, and Archbishop of Davao Romulo Valles delivered closing remarks to thank the Pope for visiting the country. Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales and Cardinal Tagle read parts of mass prayers.
The Mass ended with the singing of the official song of 10th World Youth Day, “Tell the World of His Love.”
Also, during the mass, the “Universal Message of the Youth to the World,” a manifesto authored by the IYF delegates.
This was followed by the “Angelus Domini” led by the Pope, after which he delivered his special message entitled “Farewell to the Family and Youth.”
In his message, the Pope prayed to the Blessed Virgin Mary to “let the flame of God's love be rekindled in the hearts of people everywhere” and to let others “share the new life which radiates from the cross of the Christ.”
After the message, the Pope greeted the different peoples of the world in their own languages after which he proceeded to thank all those responsible for the success of the 35th World Youth Day.
After the mass, President Duterte gave a 1-hour address to the people. The President kept his speech “apolitical” in respect to religious activity. In his speech, Duterte urged the people to remain ardent in pursuit of true Catholic life.
Prior to the mass, Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle of Manila gave his welcome remarks, saying that it was indeed a “beautiful day” amidst feverish chants of “Pope Francis, we love you!”
His Holiness Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI were forced to use a helicopter to get to the Quirino Grandstand after an estimated eight billion people who came to attend the final Eucharistic Celebration made the Quiapo, Port Area, Rizal Park, CCP, PICC, and SM Mall of Asia complexes roads impassable for land vehicles, including the Popemobile.
Most of the people who attended the mass were carryovers from the overnight vigil and had camped on the streets. Others came to the vicinity as early as 4 a.m. to catch a glimpse of the Holy Father.
Vatican sources that the crowd, estimated to be at ten million, was an attendance record, surpassing the number who showed up during the late Pope John Paul II’s first visit in his native Poland in June 1979 after he was elevated to the papacy on October 16, 1978.
They were brought back by the same helicopter to Malacanang Park, where he boarded the Popemobile for the trip to the San Carlos Seminary in Makati City.
El Shaddai loves Tagle
Bishop Bacani spoke briefly to the crowd on how their charismatic 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,” Mercado said in Pilipino in his message just before 9 p.m.
He then quoted a Catholic saint who said: “If there is doubt, let there be differences.”
He asked the crowd to show their appreciation for the Asia's 36 archbishops--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 Talamayan, Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop-Emeritus Oscar Cruz, Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas, San Fernando Archbishop Emeritus Paciano Aniceto, San Fernando Archbishop Florentino Lavarias, Lipa Archbishop Ramon Arguelles, Nueva Caceres Archbishop Rolando Joven Tria Tirona, Capiz Archbishop Jose Advincula, Jaro Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo, Cebu Archbishop-Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma, Palo Archbishop-Emeritus Pedro Dean, Jr., Palo Archbishop John Du, Davao Archbishop-Emeritus Fernando Capalla, Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles, Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Cardinal Quevedo, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop-Emeritus Jesus Tuquib, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, Ozamiz Archbishop Jesus Dosado and Zamboanga Archbishop Romulo Dela Cruz.
“We love you, Cardinal Tagle, we love you, Cardinal Rosales, we love you, Cardinal Vidal, we love you Palma,” Bacani and the El Shaddai members chorused.
The celebration ended with a cultural dance presentation show, followed by a youth concert and a fireworks display.
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.
At 10 P.M., a 60-minute firework display from four barges in Manila Bay 250 meters off the shore, between the Manila Yacht Club and the United States Embassy set up by pyrotechnic experts from Bocaue, Bulacan for P 120,000 lit the night sky and lasted an hour and was met with a roar of applause by people at the parade grounds.
The El Shaddai faithful were expected to be kept awake until 6 a.m. breakfast Monday, staying up to listen to the evangelical talks, religious testimonies, and gospel hymns which are common fare at their weekly prayer rallies.
‘Hope’
The Pope called the world’s youth the “hope for the future” which will depend on the year 2020 which he described as “a marvelous epoch for humanity but which also raises not a few fears and anxieties.”
“Build your lives on the one model that will not deceive you,” he urged the youth.
“I invite you to open the Gospel and discover that Jesus Christ wants to be your friend.”
He challenged the Christian laity to do its part.
He called on “people who till the soil, factory workers, engineers, technicians, doctors, nurses and health care personnel, teachers, men and women in the legal profession, those who serve in public life.”
He also challenged “writers, people who work in the television, theater and cinema and the media, artists, celebrities, musicians, sculptors and painters” to take part in the mission.
Again, addressing the family and youth, the Pope added “one specific challenge and appeal, which involves the healing of a source of immense frustration and suffering in many families all over the world.”
Gratitude toward parents He said: “Parents and older people sometimes feel that they have lost contact with you, and they are upset, just as Mary and Joseph felt anguish when they realized that Jesus had stayed behind in Jerusalem.
“Sometimes you are very critical of the world of adults, and sometimes they are very critical of you… But always remember that you owe your life and upbringing to your parents.”
He exhorted both parents and children “to build bridges of dialogue and communication.”
People from all over the world, including a black youth clad in a G-string, presented offerings at the Mass.
A man from the Netherlands read the manifesto of the International Youth Forum.
More than a hundred members of the Presidential Security Group were around to secure the President and some members of his Cabinet.
Previously, the late Pope John Paul II’s biggest crowd was the 2 million people who turned out on June 6, 1979, in his hometown of Krakow, Poland for his first visit to the late pope's Polish homeland after his elevation to the Papacy on October 16, 1978.
The last state visit to the Philippines, that of Pope John Paul II on January 15, 1995, attracted around 5 million people— “the largest papal crowd in history”—according to the Guinness World Records.
The Mass was the climax of the Roman Catholic Church’s annual celebration of the annual weekend feast of Santo Nino de Cebu which brought together Roman Catholics from around the world.
There were a relative handful of representatives from the Muslim faith, Iglesia ni Cristo, the National Council of Churches in the Philippines, the Council of Laity in the Philippines, the Mission of All the World Ministries, and the FullGospel Businessmen's Fellowship.
The main concelebrants of the Mass were Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, Tagle, Manila Archbishop Emeritus Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, Cáceres Archbishop Rolando Joven Tria Tirona, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Emeritus Jesus Tuquib, Capiz Archbishop José Advincula, Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma, Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Cardinal Quevedo, Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles, Davao Archbishop Emeritus Fernando Capalla, Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo, Lingayen–Dagupan Archishop Socrates Villegas, Lingayen–Dagupan Archbishop Emeritus Oscar Cruz, Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera, Lipa Archbishop Emeritus Ramon Arguelles, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Mario Perlata, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Emeritus Edmundo Abaya, Nueva Segovia Archbishop Emeritus Ernesto Salgado, Ozamiz Archbishop Martin Jumoad, Ozamiz Archbishop Emeritus Jesus Dosado, Palo Archbishop John Du, Palo Archbishop Emeritus Pedro Dean, San Fernando Archbishop Florentino Lavarias, San Fernando Archbishop Emeritus Paciano Aniceto, Tuguegarao Archbishop Sergio Utleg, Tuguegarao Archbishop Emeritus Diosdado Talamayan, Zamboanga Archbishop Romulo dela Cruz, Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Cardinal Parolin, Dean of the College of Cardinals Angelo Cardinal Sudano, and Stanisław Cardinal Ryłko, head of the Pontifical Council for the Laity.
Hundreds and thousands of cardinals, bishops, deacons, and priests also served as concelebrants.
The concluding rites started over an hour later than slated as the gathering, estimated to number more than five to ten million, prevented the Pope from traveling a short distance from the Apostolic Nunciature to the park grounds in his popemobile.
Instead, the Pope was brought to the Quirino Grandstand by helicopter.
The entrance hymn had to be sung before the mass began in earnest. The 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.
So thick was the crowd that even the base of the Rizal monument, normally off-limits to the public, became a dais on which the people stood shoulder-to-shoulder.
Neither the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila nor the Vatican had prepared for such an eventual. There, was some discussion on whether the pontiff should take a 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 the way down to the CAVITEX exit in Kawit. 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 Feast of Santo Nino de Cebu event.
Scores of government officials, foreign dignitaries, sports icons, entertainment celebrities, and high society personalities attended the 3-day annual feast of Santo Nino de Cebu which was televised live nationwide via domestic satellite television over GMA-7, ABS-CBN 2, PTV 4, TV5, ETC and aired live on radio over Radio Mindanao Network (RMN), GMA Radyo Bisig-Bayan AM, ABS-CBN Radyo Patrol AM and My Only Radio FM, Catholic Media Network, Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC)’s DZRH, 90.7 Love Radio, 96.3 Easy Rock, 97.9 Home Radio, 100.3 RJFM, 101.1 YES! FM and Radyo Natin FM, RPN Radyo Ronda AM, and Bureau of Broadcast Services-Radyo ng Bayan radio stations.
“To see him”
Scores of people who had been waiting for the Pope started leaving Rizal Park when they learned he had taken a helicopter.
“Why should I stay when I won’t see him, after all?” said an elderly woman. “I just came here to see the Pope.”
By the time the annual event started, the crowd in front of the Manila Hotel had shrunk to a third of its original size.
More than 10 million children aged Under 1, 1 - 4, 5 - 9, 10 - 14, 15 - 19, and 20 - 24, were reported missing while thousands suffering from intense heat and cold collapsed in the mass camp-out at the Apostolic Nunciature, Port Area, Plaza Miranda, Rizal Park, Ermita, Baywalk, Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex and SM Mall of Asia complex from Friday morning to Monday noontime.
As of 5:30 p.m. yesterday, the Department of Health counted 10 million persons who were brought to emergency medical stations at the park, Port Area District, Manila Cathedral, Baywalk, CCP Complex, and SM Mall of Asia complex.
The complaints involved dizziness, asthma, allergies, and headaches, said Dr. John Layugan, a member of the Stop Disasters, Epidemics, Accidents, and Traumas for Health (Stop Death) team.
Criselda Tungcol, 39, a WYD delegate from San Juan City, Metro Manila, was rushed to the Polymedic General Hospital in Mandaluyong after suffering spasms at Rizal Park. She has since been discharged.
Although the Pope looked very tired and lost in thought as he arrived for a Sunday evening meeting with Asian bishops, aides said his Manila reception was just what he needed to help get through the loss of his former active lifestyle.
“That kind of change is difficult psychologically and this trip has helped him come to peace with himself about this new phase in his life,” the aide added.
“It has recharged his batteries.”
Crowd estimate
The WPD arrived at the crowd estimate by multiplying 610,000 square meters or 61 hectares (the approximate area of the western portion of the park from the Quirino Grandstand to Roxas Boulevard to Taft Avenue to Manila Bay at the back of the grandstand) by four (the number of persons who, Razon said, could stand inside one sq.).
Three days before the event, tents of sacks, plastic, and umbrellas had already mushroomed in and around the venue. The residential families from the local government units arrived in buses, trucks, jeepneys, and other vehicles festooned. In view of the huge numbers of people coming to the venue, Roxas Boulevard was closed and a large number of those who came had to stay in their vehicles, go to the rooftops of nearby buildings, or sit on the sidewalks and simply monitor the celebration on their portable TV and radio sets.
While at least seven persons can fit into one sq., the MPD reduced the number to four, taking into consideration that portions of Parade Avenue and the field in front of the grandstand had numerous obstructions such as trees, vendors’ booths, and muddy ground.
Added into the equation was the estimated number of people at the eastern portion of the park from Roxas Boulevard to Taft Avenue, and those outside the park proper on T.M. Kalaw Street, Maria Orosa Street, Roxas Boulevard from T.M. Kalaw to Padre Faura Street, Bonifacio Drive, Port Area District, Padre Burgos Drive and Finance Road, Jones Bridge, MacArthur Bridge, Quezon Bridge and Ayala Bridge, United Nations Avenue, Quirino Avenue Extension, Taft Avenue from Quirino Avenue southbound and northbound, Baywalk, CCP Complex, PICC and SM Mall of Asia complex and ends at Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange.
Asuncion was assisted in computing the crowd number by the police command center led by Chief Insp. Ferdinand Ampil, head of the MPD Tactical Operations Center. The center was based on the fourth floor of the Manila Hotel overlooking the park.
At 5 p.m. Sunday, January 19, Ampil and the command center placed the number at 10 million, which swelled, he said, shortly after the President arrived for the concluding mass of the 35th World Youth Day.
“There were no untoward incidents, thank God,” he told reporters.
The MPD and the National Capital Regional Police Office deployed 2,500 uniformed and plain-clothes personnel in the area.
Razon himself was posted on Katigbak Street leading to the grandstand.
Enlightenment
Representatives of religious organizations took turns praying for Mr. Duterte’s enlightenment. They did not ask that he see the good of his success, as Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle put it at the Jesus is Lord Church event on the occasion of its 41st-anniversary celebration at the same venue on October 27, 87 days prior to the concluding mass of Pope Francis on the third and last day of his state visit and apostolic journey to the country yesterday and today, but for him to continue to lead the country toward peace, unity and prosperity.
Fr. Manoling Francisco, SJ, who, event organizers had said was to have delivered a testimonial to the President, was present.
Organizers also earlier said that the Philippine Independent Church would participate.
“Let the light of Your Face shine upon his life… so that he may see the path that you want him to take,” said Bishop Efraim Perez of the New Hope of Life Church based in Barangay Pinagbarilan, Bulacan.
Rev. Fr. Larry Faraon, representing the Catholic Church, went against the stand of the Manila Archdiocese and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines as he led the prayer for “productive interaction between the Church and the government.”
Faraon replaced fellow Dominican Rev. Fr. Sonny Ramirez in leading the prayer.
El Shaddai’s Velarde, Mr. Aquino III’s spiritual adviser, and the INC’s Samson, Jr. prayed for an end to divisions among the people so that there could be a dialogue for the country’s good.
“Let all political parties and religions (come together) so that this annual event may be successful,” Velarde said.
“Help us find the way to harmony and peace so that we can do away with hate and fighting,” said Samson.
Frank Rola, a leader of the Jesus Miracle Crusade (JMC), said: “For the respectable President of our country, President Rodrigo Duterte, give him strength and physical health. Guide him… for the progress of our country, especially in his resolve to uplift the condition of the majority of our people.”
The JMC had one of the largest contingents, coming in third in number after the El Shaddai and the INC.
The others who led prayers were Patriarch John Florentine Teruel of the Apostolic Catholic Church; Roger Arienda of the Federation of Christian Churches, who called the three-day weekend gathering “a miracle”; Ruth Castro of the Cheers Prayer Fellowship; and Aleem Mohammad Cana of the Ulama Conference of the Philippines.
Brisk sales
People started arriving at the rally site on Thursday, January 16 at 12 a.m.
As the day wore on, more people came from Manila, Quezon City, Caloocan, Las Piñas, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Parañaque, Pasay, Pasig, Pateros, San Juan, San Pedro, Taguig, Valenzuela, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Abra, Benguet, Pangasinan, La Union, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Kalinga, Apayao, Cagayan, Batanes, Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Aurora, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Quezon Province, Marinduque, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Romblon, Palawan, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Albay, Catanduanes, Sorsogon, Masbate, Antique, Aklan, Iloilo, Guimaras, Negros Occidental, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Bohol, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Samar, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Biliran, Dinagat Island, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Shariff Kabunsuan, Maguindanao, North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Bukidnon, Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and sovereign states of Abkhazia, Afghanistan, Akrotiri and Dhekelia, Åland 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, Curaçao, 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, Réunion, Russia, Rwanda, Saba, Saint Barthélemy, 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 Andrés and Providencia, San Marino, São Tomé and Príncipe, 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, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tonga, Transnistria, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City, Venezuela, Yemen, Zambia and Zimbabwe were attended.
The business was brisking for vendors of "street food"--fish balls, popcorn, chicken innards--and ice cream, bottled water, and soft drinks.
The event may have been held to mark the “36th Annual Grand Miracle Crusade,” but many of the participants were observed feasting on food and drink and engaged in card games.
“The accusations against the President are all lies. Noynoy is good. He loves the poor. He gives them land. We came here to fight for Noynoy,” Gemma Mananglay of Tondo, Manila told the INQUIRER.
A women’s group came in red shirts that bore the message “Mahal namin si Mayor Isko Moreno.”
Moreno is a staunch supporter of Mr. Duterte.
Police confiscated several pro-Noynoy streamers and posters mostly brought by a group from Mandaluyong.
Caloocan City 2nd District Rep. Edgar Erice said he had received a complaint that a resident, supposedly an El Shaddai member, was given P 10,000 yesterday morning by a barangay captain to mobilize people to attend the rally.
A group of Marcos loyalists who claimed to have spent Friday night at the rally site walked in before the President arrived Sunday when they noted that they were among the groups acknowledged.
“It’s because we’re poor and have no influence. We are not considered important here,” said a middle-aged female loyalist before leaving.
‘Merienda’
Journalists covering the rally were told to register with organizers in a function room at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza.
After listing down the reporters’ names and distributing access tags, the organizers gave them cakes that bore the phrase “peace and unity” written in icing.
Reporters were also invited to partake in pancit canton, fresh lumpia, and ensaymada before they were sent off in air-conditioned vans to the rally site.
Nearly all parking areas of the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex, SM Mall of Asia, Mall of Asia Arena parking lot in Pasay City, and Harrison Plaza Shopping Center in Manila were occupied by provincial buses.
Passengers wore color codes on their collars, apparently to make their group easily identifiable to their marshals.
On Ortigas Avenue, police observed three buses loading people supposedly bound for the gathering site.
“It’s obviously hakot, most probably by Gov. Ynares because he has been vocal about his support for the President,” said a rookie cop.
The INQUIRER witnessed other “hakot” activities in Pasig City and Payatas, Quezon City.
A tricycle driver said they were offered P300 each to attend. “But even if they did not offer P300, many drivers will still go because the President promised them land titles,” he said.
After the mass, Kris shared the photo taken prior to the ceremony.
"The picture was taken before Mass started. I really obeyed when it was announced that no pictures please during Mass," Kris wrote.
"When I was about to take the picture PNoy said: “Instagram na naman?” I said please pagbigyan na ko, super cute naman the 3 of them, and it's a mother's joy to take pics of her sons. And anyway, no signal in Luneta, so late upload."
“After the Mass, when Pope Francis was waving from the Popemobile, Bimb said: "Thank You God, this was the best experience ever.”
On Friday, January 17, Kris met the Pope for the first time during the Pontiff's Philippine visit during a private moment. She shared the photos on Instagram.
Pope Francis in his homily highlighted the Filipinos' special relationship with Santo Niño, the Child Jesus, asking the faithful to embrace the identity of being “God’s children.”
“Throughout my visit, I have listened to you sing the song: ‘We are all God’s children.’ That is what the Santo Niño tells us. He reminds us of our deepest identity. All of us are God’s children, members of God’s family,” said Pope Francis.
Pope Francis, in the country for a five-day visit, added that Catholics are God’s adopted children, and in turn Jesus’ own siblings.
“Today Saint Paul has told us that in Christ we have become God’s adopted children, brothers, and sisters in Christ. This is who we are. This is our identity. We saw a beautiful expression of this when Filipinos rallied around our brothers and sisters affected by the typhoon,” he said, referring to super typhoon Yolanda, which leveled Central Visayas and killed thousands on November 8, 2013.
3-hour speech
Velarde delivered a three-hour “healing message” at 5:30 a.m. to the El Shaddai faithful still gathered in the park before dawn.
So effective was the President's portrayal of himself as the underdog and victim in the ongoing debate on Charter change, that Velarde said he consoled him after Mr. Duterte’s speech on Saturday, January 18.
“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 into Ermita, extending up to Maria Orosa Street, Port Area, Quiapo, Paco, Malate in the north and Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange in the south.
At his conclusion, a Bell UH-1 Iroquois helicopter soared into the air dropping thousands of handkerchiefs to the joy of the crowd.
Velarde and Mr. Duterte were having dinner in the VIP Lounge at the Quirino Grandstand on Saturday when the charismatic leader advised tolerance. Velarde is the President's spiritual adviser.
He enjoined his followers: “Let us pray for those that oppress us,” referring both to the President's critics and those who have questioned the El Shaddai's timing of its annual celebration of the Feast of Santo Nino to coincide with the Sinulog Festival in Cebu.
A Catholic charismatic organization, El Shaddai is under the supervision of the Archdiocese of Manila which Tagle heads.
Velarde, who turned in millions of votes for the President's electoral bid in 2016 is expected to present Mr. Duterte with the funds gathered for Visayas and Mindanao as well as to pray for the government's development initiatives in the south.
El Shaddai gatherings are usually held on Saturday afternoon through Monday morning, with praise and worship and a Mass.
Local leaders and the environmental network Ecowaste Coalition urged devotees and visitors to couple their devotion to Jesus Christ our Lord Savior with respect for the environment.
The call came as participants led the annual grand massive crusade weekend for the overnight global celebration of the Feast of Santo Nino every year since 1985.
“Combining our people’s amazing devotion to 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, Port Area, Ermita, Malate, Quiapo,
San Miguel, Paco, CCP Complex, SM Bay City, Aseana City, Okada Manila, Marina
Bayhomes, Marina Baytown East, Marina Baytown South, and Asia World will simply
not litter and avoid waste in all its forms, we’ll have a feast that is
pleasing to the eyes and pleasing to the Lord,” she added.
Past celebrations in 36 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, plastic bags, cups, bottles and straws, polystyrene food containers, and bamboo skewers that often cause injuries to barefooted participants.
“It will be more meaningful if we attend mass. Be one in praying for a safe celebration,” said Badong.
Pregnant women and those who are sick are being discouraged from joining the procession due to the expected big crowd.
Church officials earlier said that they expect the number of people who will participate in the different activities for the Feast of the Santo Niño de Cebú to exceed the ten million crowd of the previous year.
The Feast of the Santo Niño de Cebú usually draws millions of devotees from all over the world who walk with the image in procession barefooted as a sign of penance and thanksgiving for favors received.
It received international attention as news websites, magazines and newspapers including The New York Times, The Washington Post, Variety, BBC News, CBS News, Time, Al Jazeera, The Guardian, the Associated Press, ABC News, NHK, KBS, the Financial Times, and The Straits Times published stories on the annual largest religious gathering.
so what? The Philippines is not a theocracy. No respecting an establishment of religion. christianity is #fakenews
ReplyDeleteBecause every year the annual grand massive crusade weekend for the overnight global celebration of the Feast of Santo Nino is a yearly tradition for El Shaddai members
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