Marinduque's Governors and House of Congress Representatives-An Update

Juan M. Nieva, Lt. Governor, 1907-1916. Macrine Nieva Jambalos Katague (my spouse) grandfather on her maternal side of the Family.


The following is the list of Governors and Representatives to the House of Congress of Marinduque from 1898 to the present. This was published by Eli Obligacion in his blog marinduquegov.blogspot.com about two years ago. I am updating it for this year 2013.

I found it very informative and interesting because it showed that Marinduque is not exempted from the Philippines' Political Dynasty Syndrome. Most of the old names sound very, very familiar to me even though I was not raised in Marinduque. But the three names that I have familial association with are Calixto Nieva ( Macrine's great grandfather, Juan Nieva ( Macrine's, my wife, grand father) and the Celso Preclaro ( Macrine's uncle) who was the governor in 1963-1967.

Engineer Preclaro (from Santa Cruz) was the late husband of Macrine's aunt Tita Ponti( (Faustina) Jambalos from Laylay. Tita Ponti is the older sister of Macrine's Dad, Bernardo Jambalos, Jr of Boac. I used to visit their residence in Sampaloc, Manila, when I was courting Macrine in mid 1950's. Here's the list that is still not complete according to Obligacion.

GOVERNORS OF MARINDUQUE

1898-1901 MARTIN LARDIZABAL Politico-Military Governor
(Appointed Military Governor of Marinduque with Eduardo Nepomuceno as Delegado de Justicia, Tomas Roque as Delegado de Hacienda and Calixto Nieva as Delegado de Policia. Lardizabal was Commandant of the Marinduque Revolutionary Force during the Philippine-American War in Marinduque).

1901-1902 RICARDO G. PARAS, SR.* Provincial Governor of
Tayabas and Marinduque
1902-1904 RICARDO G. PARAS, SR.* Lieutenant Governor
1904-1907 RICARDO G. PARAS, SR.* Provincial Governor
(Paras was delegate to the Malolos Congress in 1898; appointed provincial governor by Pres. William H. Taft from 1901-1902, then as lieutenant governor from 1901-1904 and provincial governor from 1904-1907)

1907-1916 JUAN M. NIEVA* Lieutenant Governor
(Nieva was appointed lieutenant governor; became the municipal president of Sta. Cruz; campaigned hard for the extensive planting of coconuts throughout the province; all the towns of Marinduque were first connected during his term through the installation of telegraphic lines)

(Act No. 1649 May 17, 1907, declared that all of the territory comprised in the Island of Marinduque to be the sub-province of Marinduque, forming a part of the Province of Tayabas. Section 1 of said Act provided for a lieutenant governor for the said sub-province to be appointed by the Governor General with the advise and consent of the Philippine Commission.)

1916-1919 PEDRO MADRIGAL (elected) Lieutenant Governor
(Madrigal’s name was associated with the Philippine-American War in Marinduque; also former municipal president, he established the first drug store, “Botica de Boac”.

(Act No. 2354 Feb. 28, 1914 was passed making the office of Lieutenant-Governor elective in the sub-province of Marinduque, Tayabas)

1919-1920 VICENTE TRIVINO (elected) Lieutenant Governor

(Trivino was aide-de-camp of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo and participated actively in revolutionary activities during the Philippine-American War; was first appointed provincial governor under the Marinduque Charter (1920). Act No. 2880 Feb. 21, 1920, separated the sub-province of Marinduque from the province of Tayabas)

1920-1922 VICENTE TRIVINO (hold-over) Provincial Governor
1922-1925
1925-1929 DAMIAN REYES Provincial Governor
1929-1933
1933-1936 PEDRO DEL MUNDO Provincial Governor
1936-1939
1939-1942 JOSE L. BASA
1942-1945 JOSE L. BASA (hold-over)
1945-1946 RICARDO NEPOMUCENO, SR.*
1946-1947 CESAR NEPOMUCENO*
1947-1951 CESAR NEPOMUCENO
1951-1955
1955-1963 MIGUEL M. MANGUERA
1963-1967 CELSO PRECLARO
1967-1988 ARISTEO M. LECAROZ
1988-1992 LUISITO M. REYES
1992-1995 LUISITO M. REYES
1995-1998 JOSE ANTONIO N. CARRION
1998-2007 CARMENCITA O. REYES

Carrion served as Governor of Marinduque from 1995-1998 and 2007-2010.
2007-2010 JOSE ANTONIO N. CARRION

Reyes served as Assemblywoman from 1978 to 1986 (Martial Law period), Representative of Marinduque from 1987 to 1998 and 2007 to 2010, as well as Governor from 1998 to 2007 and 2010 to present.
2010-2013 CARMENCITA O. REYES
2013---Carmencita O. Reyes
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The current Pork Barrel Scandal has named our Congress Representatives as Representa thieves or TONGressman or TONGresswoman

Members of the Philippine House of Congress ( Philippine Legislature)

Marinduque had no representation from 1907-1922. GREGORIO NIEVA of Boac was appointed, however, as Secretary of the House in 1910. Gregorio and Juan Nieva were brothers.

1922-1925 RICARDO NEPOMUCENO
1925-1928 RICARDO NEPOMUCENO
1928-1931 RICARDO NEPOMUCENO
1931-1934 JOSE A. UY
1934-1935 JOSE A. UY

Commonwealth Government
1935-1938 CECILIO A. MANEJA (Maneja was defeated by Jose A. Uy in election contest decided in 1937)
1938-1941 JOSE A. UY
1941-1946 CECILIO A. MANEJA

Republic of the Philippines
1946-1949 TIMOTEO RICOHERMOSO
1949-1953 PANFILO M. MANGUERA
1953-1957 PANFILO M. MANGUERA
1957-1961 FRANCISCO M. LECAROZ
1961-1965 FRANCISCO M. LECAROZ
1965-1969 FRANCISCO M. LECAROZ
1969-1972 FRANCISCO M. LECAROZ

Martial Law Priod
1978-1986 CARMENCITA O. REYES
1987-1992 CARMENCITA O. REYES
1992-1995 CARMENCITA O. REYES
1995-1998 CARMENCITA O. REYES
1998-2001 EDMUNDO O. REYES, JR.
2001-2004 EDMUNDO O. REYES, JR.
2004-2007 EDMUNDO O. REYES, JR.
2007-2010 CARMENCITA O. REYES
2010-2013 Allan Jay Velasco
2013-2016 Regina O Reyes still being question by Allan Jay Velasco?
Any news on the status of the Regina Reyes and Allan Velasco fight for Marinduque's lone district?

Why I watch the TV Drama-My Husband's Lover

This drama is a good diversion and relaxation for me and a respite from the depressing pork barrel scandal news that has angered millions of Filipinos all over the world.


THE FOLLOWING ARE 50 REASONS WHY PINOYS WATCH THE MOST TALK TV DRAMA THIS SUMMER according to the MHL website and FB page. IT IS ARRANGED FROM 50 TO 1. MY REASONS ARE NUMBERS #1, #3, #15, #35 and #50.

I also suggest that GMA network should have the courage to portray a KISS between Eric and Vincent at the last episode. GMA should have the balls to defy CBCP to have a realistic drama, and show to the whole world that the Philippines is no longer a conservative country. If this drama's venue is in US or Europe, a kissing scene should have probably been shown a number of times for the delight of the fans. I suggest a sequel with Diego and Hannah as the top two leads after 20 years of happiness between Eric and Vincent.

Ten weeks after, 50 episodes and 50 days of trending on twitter, here are the 50 top reasons why Filipinos Love to Watch My Husband’s Lover.

50. Filipinos watch #MHL because #MHL is a love story. Complex as it may seem it is still a love story between Vincent & Eric and between Vincent & Lally.

49. Filipinos watch #MHL because they had enough of stereotyped portrayal of gay men on T.V.

48. Filipinos watch #MHL because they secretly love the idea of infidelity.

47. Filipinos watch #MHL hoping to see two beautiful men kiss on T.V.

46. Filipinos watch #MHL hoping they will learn some tell tail signs if their husband is gay or not.

45. Filipinos watch #MHL as they love a mom like Sol Del Mundo who gives her son Eric unconditional love. Hands down, Sol Del Mundo is the Mother of the Year.

44. Filipinos watch #MHL because most of us have an all-out gay friend like Danny, who even uttered the immortal line, “Anna Dizon is Anna Dizon”.

43. Filipinos watch #MHL because they just love to hear Kuh Ledesma’s One More Try at least 10 times each night.

42. Filipinos watch #MHL because they just love to hear Jonalyn Viray’s Help Me Get Over at least 10 times each night.

41. Filipinos watch #MHL because they love watching real men play gay men on T.V.

40. Filipinos watch #MHL because they had enough of gay men play real men on T.V.

39. Filipinos watch #MHL to prove to themselves they are not homophobic.

38. Filipinos watch #MHL because they want to find out if gay men do fall in love.

37. Filipinos watch #MHL because by doing so they believe they are supporting gay rights.

36. Filipinos watch #MHL because they love to hate a homophobic father like General Soriano.

35. Filipinos watch #MHL thinking they can laugh at two crying gay men but end up crying with them.

34. Filipinos watch #MHL because they find Eric Del Mundo as the perfect mistress.

33. Filipinos watch #MHL because they love the idea of true love never dies. But are confused which one is Vincent’s true love.

32. Filipinos watch #MHL because they want to remember their high school love, Eric and Vincent met during their high school years.

31. Filipinos watch #MHL thinking they too can find a gay man to fall in love with.

30. Filipinos watch #MHL because they feel they have a better #gaydar than Lally.

29. Filipinos watch #MHL realizing that more often than not, gorgeous single men are likely to be gay.

28. Filipinos watch #MHL because at one time in their lives have been #friend zoned. David played by Victor Basa is Vincent’s friend who at one time became his lover but in the end was #friendzoned by Vincent.

27. Filipinos watch #MHL to feel good about their own complicated love life.

26. Filipinos watch #MHL to see if it will change their stand on gay marriage. As one character in the movie, Juana C. The Movie said, ‘mauuna pa ang gay divorce sa gay marriage sa Pilipinas’. (Gay Divorce will become a law long before Gay Marriage is allowed.)

25. Filipinos watch #MHL as they identify with the characters; they can be Lally the clueless wife, Vincent the confused or Eric the mistress.

24. Filipinos watch #MHL because they love to root for the underdog, but in this case none of the characters can be considered an antagonist, each one is an underdog as each one has their own share of pain.

23. Filipinos watch #MHL love to hate a domineering mother in law and they found that in Elaine Soriano played by songstress Kuh Ledesma.

22. Filipinos watch #MHL as it brings to life their own fantasy of having an illicit affair.

21. Filipinos watch #MHL thinking they know what being gay all is about only to find out they hardly know anything.

20. Filipinos watch #MHL hoping to find clues on how to move on. The song Help Me Get Over You has become the national theme song of those who wish to move on after a failed romance.

19. Filipinos watch #MHL because they believe it is their love story.

18. Filipinos watch #MHL thinking just like their own marriage, Vincent and Lally’s marriage is far from perfect.

17. Filipinos watch #MHL to understand their gay brother, gay friend or gay son.

16. Filipinos watch #MHL knowing now that gay love is no different from heterosexual love.

15. Filipinos watch #MHL to see who ends up with whom, will it be Vincent and Eric or Vincent and Lally.

14. Filipinos watch #MHL to learn that it doesn’t work to be friends with the wife if you are a mistress. As they say, “Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned” and Eric knows it very well.

13. Filipinos watch #MHL to learn that there is a reason why you are the only girlfriend your husband ever had. Vincent never had a girlfriend until he met Lally, which can mean either your husband could be gay or is so just into you.

12. Filipinos watch #MHL to remember the first time they fell in love only to realize that love is not meant to be forever.

11. Filipinos watch #MHL to see how hard it is for some gay men to come out publicly.

10. Filipinos watch #MHL to realize that gay men can compete with the wife. Talk about “ang haba ng hair’ (long hair) moment for Eric Del Mundo.

9. Filipinos watch #MHL to see what a Bromance is all about.

8. Filipinos watch #MHL realizing that being broken hearted is the same regardless if you are gay or not.

7. Filipinos watch #MHL to see why people on Twitter keep on making it as a trending topic every day for the last 50 days since My Husband’s Lover premiered on TV.

6. Filipinos watch #MHL because they believe like Vincent that it is possible to love more than just one.

5. Filipinos watch #MHL because they believe love conquers all. But how will My Husband’s Lover end, will Love be sufficient to stay or should someone say Goodbye?

4. Filipinos watch #MHL knowing now that Anne Curtis is no longer the quintessential “other woman” but it is Eric Del Mundo as played by Dennis Trillo.

3. Filipinos watch #MHL as they love anything the CBCP condemns. The gay-themed GMA teleserye “My Husband’s Lover” has pushed the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines Episcopal Commission on Youth (CBCP-ECY) to urge TV networks to examine their shows closely for sensitive topics that could affect morality. Source: Yahoo Philippines

2. Filipinos watch #MHL because they much rather follow the Pope than the CBCP, when the Pope was asked about gays, Pope Francis answered: 'Who am I to judge?'

1. Filipinos watch #My Husband’s Lover because it is good TV.

My Husband’s Lover speaks the reality that most Filipinos tried to deny as truth ~ Ian Laput, psychologist. Most viewers and fans in FaceBook wants Eric and Vincent to be together at the end. Others want Lally and Vincent to stay together with their kids.

But, no matter how MHL ends, it has broken the taboo in Philippine Television of broadcasting the reality of homosexuality, adultery and homophobia. Hopefully this drama has opened the hearts of million of Filipino viewers accepting and understanding the lifestyle of the LGBT community.

My Joke of the Week

Now that Napoles has surrendered to President Aquino( na police si napoles), it is time to laugh and enjoy your day. Instead of reading all the depressing news on the latest status of the pork barrel scandal, here's a post from the web guaranteed to make you smile. The title of this article is the "The Handsome Stranger".

The woman entered the room, and with a knowing smile teasing her full lips, she sank into the comfort of the plush chair in the corner.

The handsome stranger turned, having sensed her approach. Locking his steely gray eyes on hers, he moved slowly toward her, his experienced gaze measuring her, hypnotizing her with his soft murmurs of assurance. He sank to his knees before her and without a word, smoothly released her from her constraining attire.

With a sigh of surrender, she allowed his foreign hands to unleash her bare flesh. He expertly guided her through this tender, new territory, boldly taking her to heights she had never dared to dream of, his movements deliberate, confident in his ability to satisfy her every need.

Her senses swam. She was overcome with an aching desire that had gone unfulfilled for so long.

And, just as it seemed that ecstasy was within her grasp, he paused, and for one heart-stopping moment, she thought, “It’s too big! – it will never fit!”

Then, with a sudden rush, it slid into place as if it had been made only for her. As pleasure and contentment washed over her, she met his steady gaze, tears of gratitude shining in her eyes.

And he knew it wouldn’t be long before she returned. Oh, yes, this woman would want more. She would want to do it again and again and again… Don't ya just love shopping for shoes?

Things I will Always Remember at Chateau Du Mer

Next month will be the seven years anniversary of the opening of the beach house, Chateau Du Mer(CDM) for public use. Since then we have hosted several guests from US, Europe, Canada, Korea and Manila. The following are things that I will always remember at CDM.


1. The chirping songs and cacophony of sounds of the birds(Mayas)as they fly from tree to tree looking for worms



2. Native fishes and tilapias thriving well on my creek that meanders to the ocean



3. Sunset and coral reefs at low tide seen from the balcony of the beach house



4. A Reflection of an almost full moon as seen from the balcony of the beach house



5. Thousands of fireflies illuminating the firefly tree on a moonless night, just like a Chistmas tree with flickering miniature lights



6. Monitor Lizard ( bayawak) looking for chicken or duck eggs. He looks scary, but actually harmless,unlike the Komodo dragons of Indonesia



7. A native hawk (lawin) diving from the sky for young chicks. This lawin is on a cage to do no harm to your chickens for the moment



8. Coconut rats feasting on young coconuts ( one coconut almost hit me on the head). Watch out for your head, specially on a windy day



9. Blue starfish and corals seen only a few meters from my back yard



10. Bougainvillas and orchids blooming in my front yard ( see picture of orchids on previous posting)



11. A sunset that takes your breathe away ( notice the two swimmers also enjoying the sunset)




12. A papaya tree with ripe fruits ( not yet seen by the fruit bats)



13. Mangoes loaded with fruits almost touching the ground because of its weight



14. Bananas and avocado trees loaded with fruits( no picture of avocados-see in previous posting)



15. The scream of an alley cat on “Heat” at midnight ( photo taken from the web), and last, but not least


16. The crowing of the rooster at 4:00AM everyday morning before dawn, a reliable alarm clock if you want to wake up that early

Please visit my website, www.chateaudumer.com or my blog site, http://chateaudumer.blogspot.com for more pictures!

If you are from Marinduque, do you have things that you will always remember about Marinduque. If you have stayed at Chateau DU Mer, I will appreciate, if you drop me a note of things you will always remember about your stay in Marinduque.

Pinoy Pork is Rotten! Abolish IT!

I have written 7 articles in this blog about the Pork barrel system as evil and the main source corruption in the Philippines. I also indicated my ardent wish for the elimination of the Pork Barrel system in the Philippines since 2010. Filipinos were quite on this topic since then. It was only a couple of weeks ago when the Napoles Scam captured the ire and anger of millions of Filipinos in the Philippines as well as in other parts of the world. I could rightly say, I told you so! Pinoy Pork is rotten and it stinks all over the universe. Abolish IT!

My first article written on April 29, 2010 discussed the link between the Political Dynasties and the Uncounted Allocation of Pork barrel funds to the House of Senate (SENA TONG) and House of Representatives( Representa THIEVES). My second article dated May 13, 2010 was titled "Elimination of the Pork Barrel System should be Aquino's top Priority. http://lifeinus1960present.blogspot.com/2010/05/elimination-of-pork-barrel-should-be.html

My 3th post was titled "Pork will not be Eliminated but Allocated. The 4th was an update ( latest news) on the subject dated July 7, 2010. My blog has not mentioned pork barrel topics in 2011, However this year I wrote three more articles dated June 3, Aug 4 and 24. The June 3 article described Pork Barrel system in general. The August 4 and 24 discussed my reaction when the NAPOLES SCAM was headlined news not only in the Philippines but the whole world.

I wish for a peaceful and productive march to all supporters who will participate in the public rally in Luneta, Manila and other parts of the world tomorrow. If I were 40 years younger, I will for sure be one of the many volunteers that will show my support for the total elimination of the Pork Barrel System in the Philippines. Mabuhay Ang Pilipinas. Abolish the PORK!

Joke of the Month

I received the following article from my e-mail last week. Let me know if you like this story!

A sad story of a man: Last week was his birthday. His wife didn't greet him. His parents forgot and so did his kids. He went to to work. Even his colleagues did not greet him. As he entered in his office, his secretary said "Happy Birthday Boss..!" He felt special. His secretary asked him for lunch.

After lunch his secretary invited him to her flat. They went there his secretary said, "do you mind if i go into the bedroom for a minute..?" He said ok in a sexy mood.

She came out five minutes later with a cake and his wife, his parents, his kids, his friends and colleagues. All screaming. "SURPRISE..!"

And he was waiting on the sofa.. NAKED..! as a Jay Bird!

Most Amazing and Beautiful Places on Mother Earth

In my Facebook status page last week, I indicated that I was tired and getting frustrated reading several articles about the pork barrel scandal in the Philippines as well as other depressing news in other parts of the world. I decided I turned my mind in the beauty of nature and our planet earth. Here's a mesmerizing and breathtaking video photography of some places in planet earth. Enjoy!

Bisexuality-Theme of Episode 50 of My Husband's Lover

In yesterday's episode, Vincent one of the leads in this TV drama, a bisexual, informed us that he equally love both his wife( Lally) and 2 kids in the same level as his gay lover, Eric. Can this be true in real life? Do you know of a bisexual man in real life who loves equally his wife and his gay paramour? What percent of homosexual men are also bisexual? On the opposite end, I know there are bisexual women. Do you know of a Lesbian woman who also has a man lover? I have a woman friend who is a bisexual, but not the other gender as portrayed by Vincent in this well written and acted TV drama.

This episode explore in detail the theme of bisexuality as illustrated in the following conversation of the two actors. The actual conversation in the TV drama was in Tagalog. However a fan translated it in English as follows:

THIS IS A VERBATIM TRANSLATIONS OF VINCENT AND ERIC'S CELLPHONE CALL as portrayed in TV/

ERIC: It's funny 'coz I still memorized your number that's why I know it's you.

VINCENT: Mom Ellaine knew already all 'bout me just awhile ago. I thought that it would be hard to do. But as soon I told her the truth, I felt so much lightness. I know you're wondering why of all people I'm telling all of these. Most especially now that you're trying to move on...now that you're seeing someone else. But Eric this is very difficult for me. But I wont stop you from seeing him...or make relations to whomever you like. Oh Eric, how I wished you could be mine forever. How I wish. And I know I cant have you.

ERIC: Wait why did you really call? Is it really just to prove to me that you cant back me up? Well I really don't care! You can't hurt me anymore Vince!

VINCE: Wait Eric wait no! Please don't get me wrong. (Don't shades my intention or meaning of this call in bad light) I'm calling you now to prove to you that I'm doing something for myself. Because before I'm such a fool for not coming out in the first place. I can't help...but be glad... to be honest...I am uncertain what would happen next. I'm aware that I have a huge commitments with Lally...and to my kids. And I could not easily just abandon (leave) them. Especially now that Lally is still weak. She cannot tackle all of these things by herself...and to be frank...nor am I. Just the same I cannot face the world by myself....I'm still learning (coping). Lally and I still need each other....

ERIC: ...Because the truth is...you love her. Maybe you are not really gay. Maybe you are just like those other men who just like having.....with men like me.

VINCE: ...Eric no! That's the truth...I know who I am...because...I love you. I really love you Eric! I really really love you! But I also love my wife...in different ways of course but I love BOTH of you...And I want to iron these things out. How I wish my conscience let me walk away from my family...but no... they still need me. So please... do whatever is best for you...and ME too. I'd try what's best for me...to my family. I'm just hoping one day when I'm ready to fight for you...is that there's still love left...for me...in your heart.

ERIC: ...No...don't me promises. I don't want it. I'm already tired waiting for you. Yes...you're here...inside my heart. You are a big part of this and nobody can ever replace you. And you're right...that I still have some space left to give to someone else.. And you know (damn well) that whenever I give that space...YOU MIGHT NEVER BE ABLE TO WIN ME BACK. i hope you'd be better. You and Lally... and your family....I'LL PRAY FOR YOU...

Just in case you have not heard of My Husband's LOver (MHL)...

My Husband's Lover(MHL) is a Filipino drama series by GMA Network starring Dennis Trillo, Carla Abellana, and Tom Rodriguez. It premiered on June 10, 2013 replacing Love & Lies on the network's primetime block.

My Husband's Lover tells the story of Vincent(Tom Rodriguez) who got his girlfriend Lally (Carla Abellana), pregnant while they were still in college. The two decided to get married even if Vincent's mother, Elaine, was very much against it. With that, Lally's life of marriage was never smooth-sailing because of Vincent's mother in law. But for the sake of her love for her husband, Lally endures the hardships in dealing with her mother-in-law.

Meantime, Vincent who is bisexual had an affair with his former openly gay boyfriend Eric ( played by Dennis Trillo). Later Lally discovered and caught Eric and Vincent almost about to kiss. Lally was devastated and try to force Vincent to tell the truth to his parents, Armando ( Roi Vinzon) and Elaine( Kuh Ledesma), with the hope that their marriage can be saved. But Armando is extremely homophobic. Lally decided not to force Vincent to tell the truth about his bisexuality to his parents afraid of the extreme reaction of Armando. Vincent promised to Lally that he will not see Eric again to save his marriage.

Eric and Vincent try to forget about each other, but sometimes they still remember the happy times when they were together. Eric even sold his condo hoping to erase the memories of their love nest. Unknowingly to Eric, Vincent purchased the condo via proxy of the manager of his car dealership.

There are other side stories and characters besides the love triangle. An example of a character admired by the LGBT viewers is the mother of Eric ( played by Chandra Romero) who is very supportive of her son's sexual orientation, the exact opposite of Vincent's father.

What do you think will be the ending of this very popular TV drama?.

Here is my brain-storming ideas for the ending of the story: Perhaps after 20 years from now.

1. Lally finished school, become a successful business woman and had divorced Vincent and will be married to Paul after the divorced is finalized.

2. Eric and Vincent had reunited and live happily with custody of Vincent two kids now adults. Diego the oldest son turn out to be also gay.

3. Armando committed suicide after learning the truth of his son's sexual orientation. Elaine died of natural death still not believing her son is bisexual.

Again, no matter how MHL ends, it has broken the taboo in Philippine Television of broadcasting the reality of homosexuality, adultery and homophobia. Hopefully this drama has opened the hearts of million of Filipino viewers accepting and understanding the lifestyle of the LGBT community.

Pinoy Controversial TV Drama-My Husband's Lover

-One of the theme songs of My Husband's Lover-a Pinoy TV Drama

My Husband's Lover(MHL) is a Filipino drama series by GMA Network starring Dennis Trillo, Carla Abellana, and Tom Rodriguez. It premiered on June 10, 2013 replacing Love & Lies on the network's primetime block. The show has multiple continuing story lines that tackle sensitive yet relevant social issues like homosexual and bisexual relationships, homophobia and the society's discrimination against homosexuals, infidelity, pre-marital sex and the consequences of early or unplanned marriages. It also tackles the importance of family, friendship, integrity and love.

My Husband's Lover tells the story of Vincent(Tom Rodriguez) who got his girlfriend Lally (Carla Abellana), pregnant while they were still in college. The two decided to get married even if Vincent's mother, Elaine, was very much against it. With that, Lally's life of marriage was never smooth-sailing because of Vincent's mother in law. But for the sake of her love for her husband, Lally endures the hardships in dealing with her mother-in-law.

Meantime, Vincent who is bisexual had an affair with his former openly gay boyfriend Eric ( played by Dennis Trillo). Later Lally discovered and caught Eric and Vincent almost about to kiss. Lally was devastated and try to force Vincent to tell the truth to his parents, Armando ( Roi Vinzon) and Elaine( Kuh Ledesma), with the hope that their marriage can be saved. But Armando is extremely homophobic. Lally decided not to force Vincent to tell the truth about his bisexuality to his parents afraid of the extreme reaction of Armando. Vincent promised to Lally that he will not see Eric again to save his marriage.

Eric and Vincent try to forget about each other, but sometimes they still remember the happy times when they were together. Eric even sold his condo hoping to erase the memories of their love nest. Unknowingly to Eric, Vincent purchased the condo via proxy of the manager of his car dealership.

There are other side stories and characters besides the love triangle. An example of a character admired by the LBGT viewers is the mother of Eric ( played by Chandra Romero) who is very supportive of her son's sexual orientation, the exact opposite of Vincent's father.

What do you think will be the ending of this very popular TV drama?. Will Eric and Vincent see each other again? If so, will Lally asked for a divorce? Will Lally's friendship with Paul turn into another adulterous event in the drama? Will Armando and Elaine found out that their son is indeed bisexual? WHAT will be their reaction?

Here is my brain-storming ideas for the ending of the story: Perhaps after 20 years from now.

1. Lally finished school, become a successful business woman and had divorced Vincent and will be married to Paul after the divorced is finalized.

2. Eric and Vincent had reunited and live happily with custody of Vincent two kids now adults. Diego the oldest son turn out to be also gay.

3. Armando committed suicide after learning the truth of his son's sexual orientation. Elaine died of natural death still not believing her son is bisexual.

Again, no matter how MHL ends, it has broken the taboo in Philippine Television of broadcasting the reality of homosexuality, adultery and homophobia. Hopefully this drama has opened the hearts of million of Filipino viewers accepting and understanding the lifestyle of the LGTB community.

Film Director Reunion with His Pinay Yaya

Singaporean director, Anthony Chen reunites with his Pinay yaya, who inspired Cannes-winning film just recently.( www.interaksyon.com). A Pinay yaya is the family maid that takes care of the children. She can be a surrogate mother and can bond with the kids forever. I could identify with this story because I have also a Yaya when I was a child. I bonded with her and I have never forgotten her until she died. It is sad however that after she left the services of our family when the Japanese-American war started in the Philippines in 1941, I was never able to reunite with her. As I grew up, I learned to forget about her. However, once in a while I will remember incidences in my childhood years reminding me of how I bonded with her. I would remember that at that time I love my Yaya more than my mother. Now on with this true story that shed a tear or two in my eyes.

"During the 66th Cannes International Film Festival held last May, Anthony Chen’s feature film debut “Ilo Ilo” became the first film from Singapore to win in the world’s most prestigious festival. After earning a 15-minute standing ovation during its gala premiere, it was awarded the Camera d’Or, given to the best first feature film presented in the Official Selection, International Critics’ Week or the Directors’ Fortnight section where it was an entry.

The film focuses on the relationship between the Lims, a typical Chinese-Singaporean family, and their newly arrived maid, Teresa or Terry, an OFW from Iloilo (hence, the title), in the wake of the Asian financial crisis in the late 1990s. The maid was played by Filipina independent film actress Angeli Bayani.

As it turns out, the story was based on the director’s childhood and inspired by the Pinay domestic helper whom Chen and his two younger brothers referred to as, yes, Auntie Terry.

As reported by the Chinese-language newspaper of Singapore, Lianhe Zaobao, Chen embarked on a search for the real Auntie Terry shortly after winning the Camera d’Or for his film. With the help of Iloilo natives or Ilonggas as we know them, it did not take long before Auntie Terry (real name: Teresita D. Sajonia) was found still living in, of course, Iloilo.

“Sometimes, even after years of separation, there are those who are destined to meet again. On Sunday 23rd July, in a small hut in the village of San Miguel in Iloilo Province, Anthony and Christopher were reunited with the real Auntie Terry after a 16-year separation. Words were unnecessary as they embraced. It was an emotional moment for all who were present,” according to Lianhe Zaobao as translated by the movie’s Facebook site from the original Chinese report.

Now 56, Auntie Terry was also described in the report as looking a lot older with ragged clothes, greying hair and wrinkled face, a far cry from how Anthony Chen remembered her: “a cultured, young, and beautiful lady who loved to dress up and listen to cassette tapes of ‘Evita’ and ‘Miss Saigon’”.

Her current living conditions are also hardly what anyone would consider as that befitting a former OFW. The report further revealed that Auntie Terry now lives in a foul-smelling run-down house that’s akin to “a chicken shack” in their village. Characterized by wooden planks, bamboo materials, muddy floors, well water, no toilet and lit only by a small light bulb, Auntie Terry’s place only has an old radio for its only appliance.

According to the report, Auntie Terry is one of the classic cases of OFWs who worked hard to support their family but in the process, forget to look after their own welfare. When she was working in Singapore, she sent most of her salary to her family, setting aside P80,000 for herself.

The Chen siblings, Anthony, Justin and Christopher, had very fond memories of their Auntie Terry during the eight years that she worked for their family.

“After she returned to her village, Teresita missed the three boys very much. She didn’t marry and had no children. Up till today, she still carries photos of the three boys with her, as if they were her own children. She wrote to the Chen family once, but unfortunately the family moved to a different address and they lost contact,” the report continued.

When she returned to the country due to health reasons 16 years ago at the age of 40, Auntie Terry went back to Iloilo and never returned to Singapore. Now living with a partner who, like her, suffers from poor vision, she lives a hand-to-mouth existence bartering her chickens for fish and usually eats just bread twice a day.

Fortunately, the Chens did not forget her. “There are many domestic helpers working in Singapore. We thought when they return home, they’ll be able to afford a big house, or run a small business. But the truth is not always the case,” Anthony said in the same report.

When the Chen brothers found Auntie Terry, they gave her money, vitamin supplements and bought her a pair of glasses, some clothes, T-shirts, jeans and shoes.

Thanks to the efforts of businessman Charles L. Lim — a Singaporean himself who has been living in the Philippines for many years and learned about Auntie Terry through “Ilo Ilo” — Auntie Terry and her partner only known as Mr. Jhunie will be flown to Singapore free of charge to attend the film’s premiere in the city-state.

This will mark the first time in 16 years that Auntie Terry will set foot again in the Lion City, as well as her first time to watch a movie in a cinema — a movie whose story she inspired".

Note: A heart warming story indeed! I am looking forward to see the movie, once it is release here in the United States. The current living conditions of Teresita is sad and her relatives that benefited from the money she sent to Iloilo while she was still working should help her.

Iloilo-A Singapore Film Won Cannes Festival Award

Last May, Anthony Chen, a Singaporean filmmaker debuts his film Iloilo at Cannes Film Festival. The film was set in Singapore during the 1997 financial crisis. Iloilo (happens to be the province of my birth in the Philippines) is about the Lim family and their new house help Teresa; The film depicted how their already problematic family ties evolve; and how different cultures crash. The movie won the Camera d'Orb first place award just recently.

Chen was asked how he came about for the film’s title. Here is his answers:

“When I was much younger, my mother hired a Filipino maid to look after the children. Teresa was with us for a long 8 years until I was 12 years old. We called her Auntie Terry. When she left to return home, it was hard to bear, but we got used to her absence and somehow lost contact. I believe the universal experience of children growing up with maids is one of having a “”surrogate”” mother, a friend and a confidant. The one thing that has stayed with me after all these years is the name of the place she was from, Iloilo, a province in the Philippines. That is how the title of the film came about.”

As it chronicles the filmmaker’s family life with their Auntie Terry, the film also depicts the life of a Filipino domestic helper overseas– their sacrifices, their hardships and the simple joys they get from the children they treat as their own. Though not a Filipino film and entirely shot in Singapore, Iloilo somewhat gives delight to the Filipinos especially those working overseas. More than the money they earn, nothing else makes them feel all the sacrifices are worth it but to feel appreciated and loved in a land strange to them. And this film makes them feel special and appreciated in so many ways.

Please take time to watch the trailer. It feels overwhelming to have a foreigner appreciate a Filipino worker even after a decade or so has passed. People like Teresa dignifies a job that is often deemed cheap and low. As this film takes over the International scene, we hope our OFWs and Domestic Workers could also receive the same respect as the foreigners would give to Auntie Terry. We wouldn’t know for sure, but this film might change how the world sees the Filipino domestic workers .Not only because this a film about a Filipino maid, but because the foreigners would be seeing it from a perspective of a non-Filipino.

Knowing she have touched hearts and transformed lives, and that a film was made about her, Auntie Terry could not be happier today wherever she is.

The film synopsis is as follows:

Set in the mid 1990s in Singapore, IloIlo chronicles the relationship between three young brothers (Weijie, 10; Weiming, 8; and Weicong, 6) and their maid from Iloilo, a province in the Philippines.

The three children of working parents Teck and Hwee still seem unable to take care of themselves or one another while the couple is at work and so the mother hires a maid.

The arrival of Teresa, the new Filipino maid, presents a new situation for the family as the brothers try to adapt to the presence of a stranger at home, a challenge particularly for the youngest Weicong who shares a room with her.

Having gotten used to Auntie Terry (as they call her), the often demanding and spoiled kids overwhelm their maid with errands and chores, relying on her to do the simplest of tasks. The dynamics of this relationship changes when Teresa asserts parental control to discipline the mischievous children. She has gone from stranger to servant and now surrogate mother and friend – one who dotes and cares, yet disciplines and educates. This leads to subtle jealousy from Hwee and an increased tension between the two maternal figures.

The unique bond between the foreign maid and the children continue to develop and soon she has become an unspoken part of the family, until financial circumstances resulting from the recession in 1997 mean the family can no longer afford her.

The children struggle to come to terms with the decision but eventually are forced to deal with Auntie Terry’s departure.

Personal Note: I could identify with the bonding experience of Anthony Chen and his two brothers with their Yaya (Auntie Terry). I had a personal Yaya from birth and until I was 7 years old. The childhood memories of my Yaya I will never forget and will always remember it as long as I live.

Have You Eaten a Mangosteen?

Mangosteen is known as the queen of tropical fruits in contrast to the Durian known as the King of tropical friuts. It is not related at all to the popular mangoes, known all over the world. In the Philippines It is not as popular as mangoes except probably in Davao, Mindanao. Sad to say, I have lived in the Philippines until I was 25 years old, but have never tasted a mangosteen, although I have heard about its delicious taste.

The Purple Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), colloquially known simply as "the mangosteen", is a tropical evergreen tree believed to have originated in the Sunda Islands and the Moluccas of Indonesia. The tree grows from 7 to 25 m (20–80 ft) tall. The rind (exocarp) of the edible fruit is deep reddish purple when ripe. Botanically an aril, the fragrant edible flesh can be described as sweet and tangy, citrusy with peach flavor and texture.

There is a legend about Queen Victoria offering a reward of 100 pounds sterling to anyone who could deliver to her the fresh fruit. Although this legend can be traced to a 1930 publication by fruit explorer, David Fairchild, it is not substantiated by any known historical document yet is probably responsible for the uncommon designation of mangosteen as the "Queen of Fruit".

In his publication, "Hortus Veitchii", James Herbert Veitch says that he visited Java in 1892, "to eat the Mangosteen. It is necessary to eat the Mangosteen grown within three or four degrees of latitude of the equator to realize at all the attractive and curious properties of this fruit."

Due to ongoing restrictions on imports, mangosteen is not readily available in certain countries. Although available in Australia, for example, they are still rare in the produce sections of grocery stores in North America and Europe. Following export from its natural growing regions in Southeast Asia, the fresh fruit may be available seasonally in some local markets like those of Chinatowns. Mangosteen and its related products, such as juices and nutritional supplements, are legally imported into the United States, which had an import ban until 2007.

Mangosteens are readily available canned and frozen in Western countries. Without fumigation or irradiation as fresh fruit, mangosteens have historically been illegal for importation in commercial volumes into the United States due to fears that they harbor the Asian fruit fly, which would endanger U.S. crops. This situation, however, officially changed on July 23, 2007 when irradiated imports from Thailand were allowed upon USDA approval of irradiation, packing and shipping techniques.

Since 2006, private small volume orders for fruits grown on Puerto Rico were sold to American gourmet restaurants who serve the aril pieces as a delicacy dessert. Beginning in 2007 for the first time, fresh mangosteens were sold from specialty produce stores in New York City for as high as $45 per pound, but, during 2009-10, wider availability and lower prices have become common in the United States and Canada.

Before ripening, the mangosteen shell is fibrous and firm, but becomes soft and easy to pry open when the fruit ripens. To open a mangosteen, the shell is usually scored first with a knife; one holds the fruit in both hands, prying gently along the score with the thumbs until the rind cracks. It is then easy to pull the halves apart along the crack and remove the fruit. Rarely in ripe fruits, the purple exocarp juice may stain skin or fabric.