Meet with Mar went well - Noynoy

Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III disclosed on Sunday that his initial talks with Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II and Liberal Party (LP) leaders are going well.

Roxas had earlier confirmed that he and Aquino will meet this weekend to discuss the possibility of running as partners in 2010. He said there have been ideas of a Mar-Noynoy tandem even before Aquino's mother the late President Corazon "Cory" Aquino died.

“Nag-share ako sa kanila ng mga feedback, ito ang mga natatanggap ko… Maganda ang aming meeting,” said Aquino in a short interview at his family’s house in Quezon City Sunday afternoon.

He said however that talks would continue especially during this long ‘weekend’ at the same time apparently avoiding to present exact details on the contents of his meeting Saturday night.

“May continuing dialogues pa,” said Aquino.

He said that he and Roxas were a bit tired Saturday night citing that LP ‘s declared presidential aspirant had just come from General Santos City.

He admitted that he himself, has been attending to the many letters in connection to the death of his mother the late former President Corazon “Cory” Aquino. He cited that there still four boxes of letters that he needs to respond to – and some still have ‘get well’ messages for his late mother.

Aquino also said that the LP was fortunate that the party has “great leaders.” He said the party leaders has expressed their support during the meeting.

When asked if there has been any decision to change Roxas as the LP standard bearer, Aquino said: “As of this time there is no need for any change, there is only one declared aspirant for the [presidential] position therefore and we have been campaigning for our standard bearer.”

No decision yet

He also disclosed that he has yet to make up his mind if he will run for a higher elective position in the 2010 elections.

“Gusto ko pang mangayari kapag tinanggap ko ang hamon niyo dapat mayroon tayong magawa. Kung nababagalan kayo sa desisyon tandaan na lang po natin na napakabigat po ng repsonsiblisdad na ating pong aakuihin. Kapag pinasukan po natin iyan, ginawa nating madalian, ay parang ginawang biro ho ang nangyari at di po karapat-dapat na response iyon sa inyong mga mungkahi,” Aquino responded when asked on his message to groups who have been asking him to run for president.

Aquino also said that he has been discussing his possible plans with his sisters.

“I've had very good dialogues with my sisters contrary to my initial expectations. Siyempre nandoon pa rin ang 'eto na naman!'. At the same time it is not as difficult as I had imagined. There's seems to be a meeting of the minds tapos varying degrees of 'ganadong-ganado' at di ko rin naman siguro masabing ganado,” said Aquino.

He confirmed however that her sister Viel, who was not able to attend Sunday’s family gathering was still hesitant on his running. Aquino said that Viel was attending her father-in-law who just suffered an accident.

Aquino’s sister, Kris, had also confirmed his brother’s meeting with Roxas but said she had no knowledge on what transpired.

Aquino also said that he would be going to consult his mother’s spiritual colleagues and advisers saying that he will visit the different religious orders and even “convent to convent” to help him in making his decision.

He did say however that an announcement would be forthcoming.

“Until when? Siguro napapalapit na tayo doon,” said Aquino adding that it may be done after the 40th day of her mother’s death.

May be adopted

Another party meanwhile has signified that it will support Aquino should the LP decide not to support his possible presidential bid.

Sonia Roco, Aksyon Demokratiko leader and wife of the late senator Raul Roco, said that her group wants Aquino to run for the presidency in 2010.

“Dapat siguro presidente lang ang tatakbuhin niya. Dahil babasahin natin kung ano ang mga events o ang signs of the times na nagsasabi na ngayon ang panahon niya na tama siyang tumakbo dahil kung 2016 wala na, parang wala na ang momentum, wala na ang crest ng wave na gusto mong sakyan,” said Roco

'First Gentleman, GMA must explain roles'

MANILA, Philippines - Sen. Richard Gordon yesterday called on President Arroyo and her husband Jose Miguel Arroyo to explain their presence at the ZTE main office in China at the height of the controversy surrounding the $329-million national broadband network (NBN) contract in 2006.

Gordon, chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon committee, said the First Couple should be cited for impropriety or possible violation of ethical conduct.

Gordon said the Arroyos went to the Shenzhen Golf Club in China, even played golf and had lunch with ZTE officials on Nov. 2, 2006.

A scandal later erupted, with reports alleging that the award of the NBN contract was being rigged to favor several individuals, Gordon said.

Gordon said the President should explain her meeting with ZTE officials at a time when there were supposed efforts by the camps of former House speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. and former elections chief Benjamin Abalos to corner the multimillion-dollar deal.

The senator noted that Mrs. Arroyo and her husband had been exonerated of any liability by the Ombudsman over the signing of the NBN deal with ZTE amid indications that their visit would formalize the signing of the scandal-ridden contract.

“It’s too early to say that (the Arroyos will be cleared of any liability) although in my report, there are issues that the President would have to explain,” Gordon told The STAR during the sidelights of GMA-7’s fun run event held yesterday.

Gordon stressed Mrs. Arroyo should explain why she went to the ZTE headquarters in China, her subsequent actions following her meeting with Chinese officials while Abalos’ and De Venecia’s groups were competing to bag the contract.

“Well, if you are the President and there is a big contract, you should not be playing golf with those who are pushing the contract. You should not dine with them. That is where the doubts arise,” he pointed out.

Gordon explained the Senate is not looking for the criminal aspect of the issue but to point out indications of unethical conduct on the part of the officials involved.

“We can recommend if there are clear evidence of lacking in ethical conduct since we have the code of ethics on people in government like the President, First Gentleman and even Speaker De Venecia, his son, Joey and even (whistleblower Rodolfo ‘Jun‘) Lozada,” Gordon said.

Over the weekend, Gordon declared De Venecia and his son and namesake Joey should also be held accountable.

Gordon said the Senate’s hearing on the issue set for tomorrow would tie the loose ends in the testimonies of witnesses.

The First Gentleman has been invited for tomorrow’s hearing to explain his side on the issue. Joey de Venecia and Lozada have so far confirmed their appearance in the hearing.

“We have seen many gaps that needed to be cleared. We want to fill up these gaps (in) re-opening the case,” Gordon said.

Gordon though admitted there is not enough evidence to pin down Mr. Arroyo on the criminal aspect.

Gordon added the President’s only fault was her apparent failure to pacify the camps of De Venecia and Abalos trying to corner the NBN contract.

Sen. Loren Legarda, for her part, also believes Mrs. Arroyo should explain what she told then Socio-economic planning chief Romulo Neri when informed about the $200-million bribe offer by Abalos.

“Really, I don’t think Neri and Abalos would act on their own without the go signal of the highers-up,” Legarda said.

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. also revealed some members of the Blue Ribbon committee have agreed that the Arroyos should be made to explain their role in the NBN-ZTE project.

Pimentel, however, admitted the absence of any evidence that could criminally pin down the First Couple.

Even if there was evidence, Pimentel said the President could not be prosecuted because she enjoys immunity from suit.

Now that the Ombudsman started its probe, Pimentel said the Senate could simply recommend additional people that should be prosecuted in relation to the case.

Mistake in judgment

Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago said President Arroyo might have committed a mistake of judgment when she accepted the invitation from ZTE at the height of the negotiations over the NBN deal.

But Santiago said Mrs. Arroyo could not be charged criminally for that mistake.

“The President, like all presidents, cannot be charged criminally. In the United States, a civil case can be filed against the President. If you recall, President (Bill) Clinton was charged in a civil case or a case for damages filed (by) a woman,” Santiago said.

Santiago also revealed the First Gentleman told her that he did not berate the younger De Venecia to “back off” from pursuing the ZTE deal.

“For FG (Mr. Arroyo), he is a private citizen. On the claim that they met at a golf course where he asked Joey de Venecia to back off, it was the First Gentleman who personally told me that he never did that at anytime,” Santiago said.

In the earlier stages of the Senate hearing on the issue, the younger De Venecia testified that Mr. Arroyo pointed a finger at him while telling him to “back off” in an effort to discourage him from pursuing the NBN project.

De Venecia went on to testify that Abalos was acting as the broker of the NBN contract and was fronting for Mr. Arroyo.

Santiago, however, vouched for the Arroyo family and said they usually speak in Spanish even during common conversation.

She said its not in Mr. Arroyo’s personality to use American slang.

“They usually do not use American slang like ‘back off’,” Santiago said.

Santiago also saw nothing wrong with the First Couple visiting ZTE headquarters, including a picture of them playing golf. She said the picture could not be used as evidence against them.

“The question remains is what happened when they played golf in China… What we know is that there is a picture that showed that they all played golf... There is no testimony about the picture. A picture is not enough,” she said.

The only fault that can be seen, according to Santiago, is that they accepted the invitation from the ZTE officials.

“They claimed they were invited there. They might be (in) a misjudgment because we know they have deals on a certain contract. So that the public would have nothing to say, they should have turned down (the invitation to play golf),” she said.

Face off

Former speaker De Venecia, for his part, challenged Gordon to force the appearance of the First Gentleman before the Senate to clear things up.

De Venecia stressed Gordon should take the first step of looking into the liability of Mr. Arroyo in the NBN deal instead of implicating him and his son Joey over the botched contract.

“How come Senator Gordon (in) all these months never subpoenaed Mike Arroyo and his cronies to appear before the Blue Ribbon committee?” the Pangasinan lawmaker asked in a statement.

“Mike Arroyo says he is sick and is under doctor’s orders. How come Mike Arroyo has traveled to Europe many times, to Australia, to Asia and to the United States? Don’t tell us Senator Gordon is not aware of this,” he said.

De Venecia said the Office of the Ombudsman has cleared him and his son Joey “from this evil ZTE transaction that has bedeviled the nation.”

“But the Ombudsman decision and its discharge of justice is incomplete. What about President Arroyo and First Gentleman Arroyo who are clearly behind the ZTE transaction and who met with ZTE headquarters in China?” he asked.

De Venecia pointed out that he should know because he was there.

His colleagues at the House of Representatives, however, scored De Venecia for making the suggestion to Gordon.

Palawan Rep. Antonio Alvarez said it would be “grossly unfair” for the First Gentleman to be summoned and appear before the Senate on the role he supposedly played in the NBN-ZTE scandal.

Alvarez pointed out the Ombudsman has already cleared Mr. Arroyo in the controversy.

“By urging Senator Gordon to push through with the hearing (tomorrow) with Mr. Arroyo in attendance, De Venecia challenges and assails the Ombudsman’s ruling indirectly,” Alvarez said.

“That would be grossly unfair not only to the First Gentleman, but with the other officials who were already cleared by the anti-graft body,” he said.

Cavite Rep. Elpidio Barzaga also slammed the Senate in its effort to revive the NBN-ZTE controversy.

Barzaga said it would be a “waste of time” for the Senate to revive a “dead issue.”

“We have had enough of these hearings and what the public is anxious about is for the Senate committee to come up with its long overdue report,” he said.

Barzaga asked why the Senate withheld its report even after Gordon had announced the committee already prepared a draft report ready for perusal of its members.

Surigao del Sur Rep. Philip Pichay also raised doubts that the new Senate hearing on the issue would yield new answers.

Pichay questioned the timing of the Senate to revive the issue, particularly at the onset of preparations for next year’s elections.

On another perspective

Gordon, on the other hand, explained the Senate hearing on the issue would focus on loopholes in the government procurement process in the light of the scandal left by the NBN-ZTE deal.

Gordon pointed out the problem lies in the ZTE deal that was not even part of any executive agreement between the Philippines and China.

Gordon also urged the public not to be carried by emotions that prevailed during the testimonies of witnesses at the initial stages of the Senate inquiry over the issue.

“We established that all concerned should explain because it showed that there were interested parties who were fighting to bag the deal,” Gordon said.

Gordon also said the suspension slapped by the Ombudsman against Neri is proper because he did nothing when he was informed of the irregularity.

“He should have been suspended not because he did not accept the bribe but because he failed to act and stop the bidding after he learned about the shenanigans by the differing interested parties. He should have cancelled the bidding outright,” Gordon said.

Pimentel also said Neri has only himself to blame for his misfortune.

While it was Neri who revealed the bribe attempt and reported it to the President, he still refused to reveal the details of his conversation with Mrs. Arroyo, Pimentel said.

“(Neri) did not want to reveal exactly what they discussed. The implication is that he was covering up a crime,” Pimentel said.

While it may look awkward that the investigation report of the Senate Blue Ribbon committee would be released after the Ombudsman acted on the case, Pimentel stressed the committee report would be very valuable because this will strengthen the evidence against the erring parties.

Moreover, Pimentel explained the inquiry conducted by the Senate is essentially aimed at proposing legislative measures to prevent misuse of public funds.

Venezuela repeats at Miss Universe contest

NASSAU, Bahamas – Miss Venezuela was the fairest of them all once again, winning the 2009 Miss Universe crown for the second year straight and the sixth time since the pageant's creation.

Dressed in a flowing red gown, 18-year-old Stefania Fernandez hugged the runner-up from the Dominican Republic and danced in joy as her victory was announced Sunday.

The crown briefly fell to the floor as it passed from one Venezuelan beauty to the next.

But Fernandez said there was time for outgoing Miss Universe Dayana Mendoza to whisper in her ear that she must have worked hard for Venezuela to win consecutive crowns.

"What do we Venezuelans have?" Fernandez, an international relations student, told reporters after the pageant. "That we are ourselves."

The other top-five finalists were runner-up Ada Aimee de la Cruz, followed by Miss Kosovo, Droga Ganusha; Miss Australia, Rachael Finch; and Miss Puerto Rico, Mayra Matos Perez.

During a question-and-answer segment with the five top finalists, Fernandez said she believed women have overcome obstacles such as hitting the proverbial glass ceiling.

"I feel we have reached the level that men are at," she said.

When asked later how she thought beauty contests promoted equality between men and women, Fernandez said they provided exposure.

"We have quite a following worldwide," she said. "We are models to follow."

The new Miss Universe is from the city of Merida in the west of a beauty-obsessed South American country where hard-fought pageants are something of a national sport, with contestants widely dissected by the public and the media.

Fernandez said she did not know whether Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez would receive her. He did not meet with Mendoza when she won and made no public statements at the time.

But Fernandez said he might change his mind.

"We'll see, because we are making history," she said.

The top 15 Miss Universe finalists appeared in bathing suits before the final 10 were chosen for the evening gown segment.

Pageant co-owner Donald Trump told reporters, "I think this is the most beautiful group of women I've ever seen."

The televised event included musical performances by Flo Rida, Heidi Montag, David Guetta and Kelly Rowland.

Montag gave her first live performance, singing "Body Language" from her debut album.

Fans cheered on the blond star of MTV's "The Hills," although NBC, which broadcast the event in the Bahamas live, blocked out more than half of her performance as they introduced the 15 finalists.

"It's my first performance live and it's in front of a billion eyes," Montag said.

The on-stage hosts were Billy Bush, co-anchor of "Access Hollywood," and Claudia Jordan, a former Miss Rhode Island USA who has appeared on several TV shows. Judges included actor Dean Cain and supermodel Valeria Mazza.

Miss China, Wang Jingyao, was named Miss Congeniality and Miss Thailand, Chutima Durongdej, won Miss Photogenic.

Many contestants have suffered from dehydration in recent weeks, and Jewel Selver, Miss Turks and Caicos, went home Saturday to recuperate, said Esther Swan, Miss Universe spokeswoman.

Jinkee Pacquiao says "No" to acting

Being married to a superstar athlete is not a walk in the park. For Jinkee Jamora Pacquiao—the spouse of Filipino ring icon Manny Pacquiao—all the fame, attention and admiration presently being enjoyed by her husband has had an adverse effect on her self-esteem.

Talking about her sexy figure, thanks to the Belo Medical Group's new Belo Diet Injections, Jinkee said, "Importante din 'yon [maintaining her sexy physique] sa akin. Kailangan kung makita nila si Manny na sikat na sikat, kailangan makita din nila 'yong wife na maganda 'tsaka sexy."

A grand launching was staged by the Belo Medical Group last Tuesday, August 11, at Dolce Superclub on T. Morato Ave., Quezon City.

Jinkee's decision to take good care of herself has caught the attention of her world-famous husband. Manny has become extra-interested in her affairs and social activities, revealed Jinkee.

"Basta tsini-check niya kung nasa'n ako, sino 'yong mga kasama ko. 'Pag may kasama kaming lalaki, tinatanong niya kung 'Sino ba 'yan? Sa'n mo nakilala 'yan?' mga ganun,'" the mother of four proudly said.

HEY, JEALOUSY. With Manny's stature as one of the most famous and wealthy athletes in the world of sports today, Jinkee admitted being prone to moments of intense insecurity. Being a celebrated personality, with a fat bank account to boot, it is easy to imagine women easily gravitating to Manny's orbit regardless of his well-known status as a married man.

"Oo naman," Jinkee readily acknowledged when asked if she feels threatened by other women's attention on her husband. "'Pag nagmamahal ka siyempre nandun 'yong selos. Ganun talaga 'pag sikat, normal 'yon sa isang sikat na tao. Pero alam ko naman na iniisip ni Manny na 'yong temptation, kailangan labanan. Kasi ako, malaki ang tiwala ko kay Manny na mahal niya ako. Nagkakaintindihan kami, 'yon naman ang pinakaimportante, na magkasundo kaming dalawa."

GETTING USED TO INTRIGUES. Manny's phenomenal success in the field of boxing has likewise turned the spotlight to his entire family. It took considerable time for Jinkee to get used to show business. "Ayoko ng intriga," she candidly confessed.

But how does she usually confront Manny on certain intrigues, particularly with those questioning his fidelity as a husband?

"Tinatanong ko siya in a nice way. Hindi ko siya inaaway o sinusungitan. Siguro dati kasi hindi ako sanay sa intriga kaya dati 'pag tinatanong ko siya galit na ako, 'pag kinu-confront ko siya nagagalit na 'ko," Jinkee revealed.

Jinkee's Belo engagement is one of the many endorsement deals tucked under her belt. Doing films and television shows, however, is not part of her immediate plans, mainly because of her responsibility to her children.

"'Yon lang ang gusto kong gawin, commercial, mag-endorse or billboard, pictorial, mga magazine, 'yon, gusto ko 'yon. Huwag lang movie. Siguro 'yong mag-guest ka lang, ganyan mag-shoot ng isang araw or ilang oras. Pero 'yong movie kasi, di ba, every day nagsu-shoot kayo? ' Yong time 'yong inaalala ko sa mga anak ko, kasi maliit pa sila. Kailangan gabayan sila kasi mabilis lang sila lumaki. So, kailangan habang bata pa sila, kailangan 'yong pag-aalaga sa kanila nandun."

Exodus from Cabinet seen

MANILA, Philippines - The resignation of Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ralph Recto is the start of an exodus of officials from the Arroyo Cabinet to the political battlefield in 2010, Malacañang disclosed yesterday.

Recto’s resignation came just 14 weeks from the deadline for the filing of certificates of candidacy with the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said he expects Recto to remain with the ruling Lakas-Kampi-CMD party even if he has close friends in the opposition.

He cited Recto’s being “independent-minded” when he was still in the Senate.

He said President Arroyo understood that Recto needed time to prepare for another run for the Senate and she wished him well. Malacañang has yet to name Recto’s replacement.

“As you know Senator Recto did not make it during his first re-election (in 2007).
I suppose that this time he’s going to prepare in earnest so he can be successful in his second reelection bid in the Senate,” Ermita said.

“The former senator believes in the saying that the early bird catches the worm, and therefore he wants to be able to move around more freely with much more time in preparation for 2010,” he said.

He said Recto might have recommended a successor although Mrs. Arroyo has “the latitude of choice” among current deputies at the National Economic and Development Authority.

Ermita also dismissed speculations that the resignation of Recto was linked to his public quarrel with Energy Secretary Angelo Reyes over local fuel prices. Recto had accused the oil firms of overpricing at a time when Reyes was being criticized for allegedly not protecting the interest of consumers.

“I guess it’s safe to say that those who may be aspiring for political positions, and (who will) join the elections in 2010 may have to resign come filing of certificates of candidacy,” he said.

He said the Palace has “anticipated” the exodus and is confident of getting competent replacements for the resigning officials.

Presidential Adviser for Political Affairs Gabriel Claudio earlier said between eight and 12 Cabinet officials would be seeking elective posts next year.

He declined to name the officials to keep them from being exposed to political attacks prematurely.

“A good number of them (Cabinet officials) represent agencies that have been performing well and supporting the President effectively and efficiently,” Claudio said.

“They can be better motivated to do a good job at what they’re doing because the public is watching them,” he said.

“I think it is to be expected of them if they run for public office they have to be presenting themselves on the issue of performance,” he said.

Among those rumored to be eyeing elective posts are Presidential Management Staff chief Hermogenes Esperon Jr., reportedly a congressional seat in Pangasinan; Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap, either as a congressman in Bohol or as senator; Health Secretary Francisco Duque III as senator; Presidential Adviser for the Peace Process Avelino Razon Jr. as Manila mayor; Education Secretary Jesli Lapus as senator.

Also reportedly running for elective posts in 2010 are Cabinet Secretary Silvestre Bello III and deputy presidential spokespersons Anthony Golez and Lorelei Fajardo.

Press Secretary Cerge Remonde is reportedly considering running for a local post in Cebu.

Senate lineup

Reggie Velasco, deputy secretary-general of Lakas-Kampi-CMD, said Recto is included in the senatorial lineup of the ruling party.

“He (Recto) is part of the senatorial lineup. As far as Lakas-Kampi is concerned, we have no problem with him. We are 100 percent behind him,” Velasco told reporters during the weekly Ayes and Nays forum in Quezon City.

“We have no information if he’s moving to another party. We don’t know the reason for his resignation. Perhaps to give him ample time to prepare for the senatorial race,” he added.

Recto sought re-election in May 2007 but lost. He was first elected senator in 2001 and served his full term until 2007. Prior to that, he served as congressman of Batangas for three terms, or a total of nine years.

The party official disclosed that national officers would be conducting “regional consultations” starting Aug. 27 to get the pulse of the local executives on who they would want to endorse for the May 2010 presidential elections.

Consultations will continue until September after which a “mini convention” will be held in Metro Manila on Oct. 15, or more than a month before the Nov. 30 deadline for the filing of certificates of candidacy

BSP studies new P500 bill design with Cory, Ninoy

MANILA - The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Monday said they are now studying the possible design of a new P500 bill that would feature the late former president Corazon Aquino alongside her husband, the late former senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr.

The BSP Numismatic and Concept Committee said Mrs. Aquino is already qualified to have her image put in a bill or coin. (Read: BSP mulling to put Cory on P500 bill)

For a person to have his or her image printed on a bill, the person should already be dead, has made a significant contribution to the country, and should embody something unique about the Filipino people.

"To recognize the contributions of President Aquino to the cause of democracy, to the cause of national unity, how do we do that? We intend to put her portrait in the P500 notes," BSP Deputy Governor Diwa Gunigundo said.

The BSP expects to have the lay-out ready by October, and once approved, the first batch of bills with Cory and Ninoy's images will be out early 2010.

Along with this possible new design, the BSP is preparing to include new technologies on the current bills to heighten security and to prevent fraud.

This idea first came out after a possible design of a new P500 bill, made by 22-year-old Reno Naval, came out on the internet.

"I posted [the design] as my first post on my website (www.peaceloveandrevolution.com). And then surprisingly, there were a lot of people who saw it, and when the website was [published] on [the newspapers], it spread out like wildfire," Naval said about the spread of his design on the internet.

"Kung ano man ang ma-finalize na konsepto, as long as magkasama sila, masaya silang dalawa (sa disenyo), for sure buong buhay ng mga Pilipino maaalala natin 'tong dalawang bayani na ito," he said. With a report from Cecille Lardizabal

Body Talk with Bea Alonzo

Is Bea Alonzo ready to jump into the “bold-wagon”?

Just because she’s donning a two-piece for the first time — that is, in And I Love You So, Star Cinema’s 16th-anniversary offering opening nationwide on Wednesday, Aug. 12 — people might think that she is.

“It’s not like that,” says Bea who placed No. 33 in FHM’s “100 Sexiest Women of the World 2009” honor roll (she was No. 16 last year). “I’m doing it only for a movie but not for TV or a pictorial, not especially for a men’s magazine. I’m not ready for that.”

Directed by Laurenti Dyogi, And I Love You So must be so special for Bea to shed (some of) her inhibitions. Bea plays a woman between two loves, played by Sam Milby and Derek Ramsay, in a story about love, loss and letting go. She has worked with Sam in Close To You and with Derek in One More Chance, and both in the soap Maging Sino Ka Man.

“It’s an anniversary presentation, so I feel that I’ve given it my all. I have love scenes that I’ve never done in my past movies and give all my emotions in the drama scenes, and I also had my hair cut. If it doesn’t work,” she adds with a laugh, “ewan ko na lang.”

Bea is gifted with an amazing ability to give credence to characters much older than she is (turning 22 on Oct. 17, a Libran). What inspires her to do it?

“It’s the script. Our writer is so good that when he explains the role, you can’t help but fall in love with it so much that there’s no reason for you not to give it justice. All of my past roles were older than I. It’s only in And I Love You So that I’m playing a character within my age range. On the positive side, I learn a lot from playing characters much older than I. Mas lumalim ako as an actress because I am able to portray all kinds of emotions. You know, when you’re happy, hindi lang basta happy. May iba’t-ibang klaseng saya. Ganoon din pag malungkot ka.”

It helps that her latest movie is megged by Dyogi who also directed Bea in a few ABS-CBN soaps, including Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay, her first TV starrer.

“I started with direk Lauren. Technically, siya ang nagturo sa akin kung paano umarte. I’m comfortable with him,” adding, “but I was not comfortable in my love scenes (with Sam) because first time na ganoon ka-bongga.”

What do you expect from your leading man during love scenes?

“I take a good bath, I brush my teeth thoroughly and gargle mouthwash. I expect my leading man to do the same. Sam is gentleman enough to do that.”

How did you get the kind of body that you have now?

“For almost one month, I ate nothing but boiled eggs and nilagang saba everytime I got hungry. Only egg whites, without the red part which is full of cholesterol. But sometimes, including the red part. I’m young so I can afford it.”

Are you able to take three square meals a day?

“Hmmmm...Not always. But now that I have my (desired) weight, I can eat more. The only problem is that I have gotten used to my boiled-eggs/nilagang-saba diet kaya ‘yon at ‘yon pa rin ang gusto kong kinakain. But I can eat whatever I want basta low-carb lang.”

What’s your weight now?

“Ayokong sabihin! Secret!”

Your height?

“5’8”.”

What about your vital statistics?

“Ay, nahihiya akong sabihin. Secret na lang! Basta, ang shirt ko small-size na; dati, medium or large. My top kasi is small and I’m bottom-heavy. Malaki ang balakang ko.”

Does your balakang (hips) need improvement?

“I think so. I think I got it from my father who is Brit. Di ba mga Brit malalaki ang balakang? I have to work on it.”

Oh, you have time to work out?

“Now, none. But I hope to resume working out now that I’m done with the shoot of this movie. Ako kasi, I’m basically mahinhin, although not so much now. I’m not the sporty type.”

What part of your body is most vulnerable?

“I’m not sure what part but I have a problem with balance. I have small feet kasi. With my height, I should be size-nine shoes but I’m wearing only size-seven shoes. Lampa kaya ako! Madali akong madulas at madapa. I’m like my mom. She also has small feet.”

And what part of your body is your favorite?

“Puwet ko; my butt. Maganda siya! I don’t think many people are gifted with a nice butt. Hehehehe!”

What part of a guy’s body do you first look at?

“The eyes. Mahilig ako sa magandang mata.”

Like that of other stars, your schedule is tight. How much sleep do you get per night?

“I’m happy with six hours.”

What’s the last thing that you do before you go to sleep?

“I wash my face, para hindi ako magka-pimples. I use a toner for my face. That’s it. Hindi naman ako masyadong maarte.”

And the first thing that you do when you wake up?

“I go to the bathroom, check my face in the mirror, brush my teeth and wash my face.”

Favorite sleep wear?

“Loose, comfortable dresses like the ones I use sa taping. Iniuuwi ko ang mga ‘yon. Pantulog ko.”

Do you snore?

“I wouldn’t know. When I’m asleep, hindi ko naririnig ang sarili ko na naghihilik. Hehehehe!”

Do you talk in your sleep?

“Hindi ko rin naririnig. Hehehehe! Teka, my mom said that I do talk in my sleep kapag pagod na pagod ako.”

Do you sleepwalk?

“When I was small, yes I did. Stress-related daw ‘yon.”

You are flawless. How do you take care of your skin?

“Aside from toner, I use moisturizer, lotion, and just soap and water. Once a month, I go to the spa for a scrub and a massage.”

Most women are afraid of the sun. Are you?

“No, I’m not. In fact, I love the sun. I want nga my skin to be a bit darker. Ayoko ng maputing-maputi. Gusto ko healthy-looking lang.”

How do you cope with stress?

“I practise yoga. I bond with my friends who are not from showbiz to keep me grounded...para ma-remind ako who I was before I joined showbiz.”

How do you manage your time?

“I see to it that it’s not all work. I try to find time to relax. Now that I’m not so busy, nakakapag-spa ako and I have more time for my family and friends. Maluwag ang schedule ko ngayon. I don’t have a TV show. After And I Love You So, I’m doing another movie again with Lloydie (John Lloyd Cruz), for release next year.”

Favorite hideaway?

“Beach.”

Favorite city?

“Remember the last time we had an interview? I told you na gusto ko makarating ng New York. I’ve been there na, finally! I also like Barcelona. I’ve been there na rin.”

How’s your love life?

“Wala pa rin!”

I can’t believe it! Are you too pihikan (choosy)?

“Not really. Hindi lang binibigay ni God.”

What are you looking for ba in a guy?

“No specific qualities. I will know it when I meet the right guy. Kaya lang, hindi pa ako nakakaramdam ulit ng kilig?”

Ulit? What do you mean?

“Di ba kami noon ni Mico (Palanca)? Siya ang ex ko, di ba? Noon pa ‘yon.”

Name three women you think have nice bodies.

“Angelina Jolie. Sana katulad ng sa kanya ang katawan ko. Megan Fox. And Jessica Alba. Ganda ng bone structure niya.”

And three men...

“Body lang?” (Pause and laughs) “Feeling ni Sam babanggitin ko ang name niya.” (Turns out Bea and co-stars were dubbing for And I Love You So during the phone “body talk.”) “O, sige na nga...Sam Milby. Ay naku, dalawa na lang ang pipiliin ko; sinayang ko na ‘yung first. Hehehehe! There’s also Brad Pitt in Fight Club. And, of course, Derek Ramsay.”

Using only body language, how would you make a guy know that you admire him?
”I simply look at him. If he looks back, I smile at him and make beautiful eyes. I’m sure he can get the message na.”

Filipinos bid farewell to democracy icon Aquino

MANILA, Philippines – Former Philippine President Corazon "Cory" Aquino was laid to rest Wednesday next to her assassinated husband after a funeral procession joined by hundreds of thousands of supporters who hailed her as an exemplar of moral leadership.

About 600 priests and nuns linked arms around the Aquino mausoleum at the Manila Memorial Park to keep back the crowd who followed the flatbed truck with her flag-draped coffin on its final, nine-hour journey through the rain-soaked streets of the capital.

The procession went from the Manila Cathedral on a 14-mile (22-kilometer) route jammed with Filipinos dressed in yellow _ the signature color of the 1986 prodemocracy uprising led by Aquino that toppled dictator Ferdinand Marcos. Many in the crowds flashed the "L" sign for "laban," or fight, in Filipino _ an anti-dictatorship slogan _ and chanted "Cory."

Aquino was buried Wednesday evening inside a simple white-painted tomb next to her husband, Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr., the opposition leader whose mantle she reluctantly took on after his 1983 assassination when he returned from exile in the U.S. to run against Marcos.

Despite a patchy record during her six years in office as the 11th president of the Philippines, she remained a beloved figure. She died on Saturday after a yearlong battle with colon cancer. Her passing prompted an immense outpouring of grief.

"Nobody can replace her," said real estate agent Jessa Roche, 31, who recalled how as a child her parents had taken her to the "people power" demonstrations that transformed the Philippine politics after two decades of authoritarian rule.

"She taught us to pray and fight for our democracy. If a tyrant will return, there will be millions of Corys who will stand up. She left a good example and the next generation should continue that legacy," she said.

Former presidents Fidel Ramos and Joseph Estrada, the latter deposed in a second popular uprising in 2001 on corruption allegations, attended Wednesday's requiem Mass. They were joined by East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta.

"I think the greatest tribute that Filipinos can pay to Corazon Aquino and so many others who gave their lives for democracy is ... there should be no more dictatorships again," said Ramos-Horta. Aquino inspired East Timor's struggle for independence from Indonesia a decade ago, he said.

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who was at odds with Aquino after she called for Arroyo to resign because of vote-rigging allegations, paid a quick visit to the wake Wednesday morning upon her return from an official trip to the U.S. and left before the church ceremonies and procession.

The Aquino family rejected offers by Arroyo for a state funeral, but the armed forces gave full military honors.

At the burial, weeping family members, including Aquino's grandchildren and sons-in-law, lined up to kiss the former president's remains in the open casket.

Senior officers then carried the casket and placed it inside the tomb while honor guards fired a 21-gun salute before playing "Taps."

Relatives, friends, supporters and military commanders placed yellow roses inside the tomb before it was sealed. The crowd sang the patriotic song "Bayan Ko (My Country)," which was popular during the anti-Marcos struggle.

Earlier, in a tearful message of thanks to the multitudes of mourners, Aquino's youngest daughter Kris said, "You have given our family honor beyond anything we could ever have hoped to receive."

"No matter how great the sacrifices of my parents, I can honestly say to all of you that for my family, the Filipinos are worth it."

During her time in office, Aquino faced down seven coup attempts, mostly by officers who had pushed for Marcos' ouster and felt they had not been given their share of power.

While she brought political change, Aquino struggled to meet high public expectations. Her land redistribution program fell short of ending economic domination by the landed elite, including her family. Her leadership, especially in social and economic reform, was often indecisive, leaving many of her closest allies disillusioned by the end of her term.

Aquino stepped down in 1992, refusing to seek another term and reminding people that her mission _ the restoration of democracy _ had been completed.

___

Cory children not keen on GMA visit

MANILA, Philippines - President Arroyo can visit the wake of former President Corazon Aquino if she wants, but the Aquino children have made it known that they are not looking forward to it.

Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III and television host Kris Aquino-Yap said they were not keen on seeing Mrs. Arroyo at their mother’s wake or funeral which is set on Wednesday.

President Arroyo cut short her US trip reportedly to attend the necrological services for Mrs. Aquino.

But Noynoy said the family would respect President Arroyo’s decision to go to his mother’s wake.

He said that in their younger years, his parents taught him and his siblings to be polite and respectful to elders.

“May kalayaan naman po siyang dumalaw. At tayo po’y nung batang bata pa’y talagang parating inuulit ng ating ama at ng ating ina yung katagang di gawain ng edukadong tao ‘yong pambabastos (She has the freedom to visit. My parents have always inculcated in us since we were very young that as educated individuals, we should not be rude),” Noynoy replied when asked by GMA-7’s Jessica Soho in an interview Saturday night if President Arroyo was welcome at the wake.

Noynoy said he would be polite toward Mrs. Arroyo if she comes to the wake and prays for his mother, but not to the point of being eager to see the President.

“Kung pupunta ho dito, kung gusto ho niyang magdasal, siguro ho eh thank you na rin ho (If she will come here and wants to pray, she’s welcome and well, thank you) Pero yung point naman na I’m looking forward to it, I’m not,” Noynoy admitted.

In separate interviews with reporters, Noynoy also said the family would welcome the President “if she shows up.”

“But an enthusiastic welcome is, I think, a bit too much to ask for,” he said.

He said his lack of enthusiasm had to do with the many unresolved issues of the Arroyo administration.

“(We) have all these issues that remain unresolved, starting with ‘Hello, Garci,’ NBN-ZTE, the fertilizer scam. I don’t want to go through the list, which is quite extensive,” he said.

Mrs. Aquino herself had a falling out with President Arroyo and repeatedly demanded that she step down after her administration had been accused of being involved in a string of scandals involving massive corruption and election fraud.

Until March last year, when Mrs. Aquino withdrew from public life after being diagnosed with colon cancer, she had been active in street protests denouncing widespread government corruption.

Apart from the corruption issues against the Arroyo administration, Noynoy has also been vocal in criticizing President Arroyo over her decision to pardon the killers of his father, former Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr.

Noynoy has criticized Mrs. Arroyo for her double-talk – “consistently” admiring Ninoy’s heroism but at the same time allowing the release of 13 of the 15 convicted murderers of his father.

“Through the years, Mrs. Arroyo has praised my father consistently. How does one reconcile her words of praise for my father as a champion of democracy and a victim of injustice with her action of freeing those who carried out the injustice? Is this the way to show reverence to a person she claims to admire and whom she wanted to emulate on the 25th year of his martyrdom? One day even this wrong will be righted,” Noynoy said in a statement last year when the family marked the 25th death anniversary of Ninoy.

Youngest daughter Kris, in an emotional interview with Boy Abunda in the afternoon show “The Buzz” aired from the La Salle Greenhills gym, said she was hurt when the government ordered the members of her mother’s security detail to return to their mother units, ostensibly “for accounting purposes.” All former presidents are accorded security details.

She said the escorts, Mel and Cris, always accompanied their mother to the hospital when she went for her check-ups, and when she had surgery. They were like family, and Kris revealed that Mrs. Aquino had even asked her eldest daughter Ballsy to make sure to take care of Mel and Cris when she was gone.

“A little respect. Don’t take away the security blanket of my mom. It really hurt me. Pag may impluwensya ka, pahirapan mo kalaban mo (When you’re I power, you make life difficult for your enemies),” she said.

Kris added that she decided to be the one to speak out about this so that her brother Noynoy would not have to bring this up, adding she has no political plans whatsoever.

Kris also said their family decided not to have state honors for their mother, saying all the honors have come from the people, so honors from Malacañang were unnecessary.

She also recounted an incident when a Palace official, who had remained friends with the faily, offered a state funeral for her mother and lying-in-state in Malacañang. The official told them that the Palace faces a damned-if-you-do, damned-if-you-don’t situation, since not offering state honors would be bad, and offering it but being rejected would also be bad.

Kris said she was very emotional when she told the official it was not her problem anymore, and her only concern was her mother

JPE no plans yet to go to wake

Meanwhile, a staff member of Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile said there are no clear plans yet if he will attend Aquino’s wake or funeral.

Enrile was tagged in a number of coup attempts against the Aquino government.

Enrile’s office, however, issued a statement on Mrs. Aquino’s death.

“On behalf of the Philippine Senate and the members of my family, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy and condolences to the bereaved children of former President Corazon Aquino, especially to my colleague, Sen. Benigno ‘Noynoy’ Aquino III,” the Senate president said.

Enrile said the demise of President Aquino is not only a loss to her loved ones, but is also an immense loss to the entire nation.

“President Aquino’s contribution to the well-being of the country cannot be measured by mere words, structures and monuments for she has done much, much more. She played a key role in this nation’s struggle for freedom, and she has done noble service in the restoration of democracy in our society,” Enrile said.

“Although, by a twist of fate, we have had differences and disagreements in politics, I have always held President Aquino in high regard and great respect as a worthy leader of our people,” said Enrile, adding his family will continue to pray for her.

“As a Filipino, and as a former member of her Cabinet, I believe the nation owes her much, having sacrificed her life in the service of our people. She thus truly deserves the prayers, respect, admiration and appreciation of the Filipino people,” Enrile said.

Marcoses join Filipinos in mourning Cory's death

MANILA - The family of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos joined Filipinos around the world in mourning the death of former President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino. "Ang buong pamilyang Marcos ay nakikiisa sa pagluluksa ng sambayanang Pilipino sa pagpanaw ni dating Pangulong Corazon Aquino (The Marcos family joins Filipinos in mourning former President Corazon Aquino's death)," Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr said in a statement. Marcos said his family knows the pain the Aquino family is going through with the death of the "People Power" icon. "Muli, ang aming pakikiramay at pakikiisa sa pamilyang Aquino (Again, our condolences and support for the Aquino family)," the congressman said.

In a separate statement, former First Lady Imelda Marcos asked Filipinos to "unite and pray for Cory."

Corazon Aquino was propelled into the presidency after the 1986 people's revolt that toppled the Marcos dictatorship. Aquino restored democracy in the Philippines and a new Constitution with democratic safeguards was adopted. The former president died 3:18 a.m. Saturday died due to complications from colon cancer. She was 76.