Munting Mutya ng DavNor
10 year old Mohaira Sanama, representing Tagum City was crowned this year’s Munting Mutya ng Davnor 2019, held at GMall of Tagum last June 30, 2019. Princess Charmae Bastasa from Island Garden City of Samal was crowned Munting Diwa ng DavNor 2019and Alexa Abapo from Municipality Of Kapalong was crowned Munting Sinag ng DavNor 2019.
Munting Mutya celebrates its 1st-ever kid pageant in the province of Davao del Norte. A celebration of the longest running kid pageant in Mindanao made in celebration with the 52th Araw ng Davao del Norte. The event is made possible by GMall of Tagum, co-presented by the Provincial Government of Davao del Norte and STI College – Tagum.
Present during the coronation day were Mr. Noel Daquiaog (Provincial Tourism Officer of the Provincial Government of Davao del Norte), Ms. Dinah Antojado (Marketing Head of GMall of Tagum City, Davao City, Toril & Digos City), as well officers from the Provincial Tourism Office.
Munting Mutya 2019 featured pint-sized beauty queens decked out in pricey gowns, full make up and big hair, yet even if the world of pageants can be cutthroat and extremely competitive, these girls shared friendly conversations, having fun and enjoyed being onstage.
“Munting Mutya ng DavNor aims to train young women to develop strong confidence and a better sense of whom they are”, according to the Official Events Organizer Mr. Christopher Ledesma of Stunning Events and Weddings, whom alongside with Designer/Stylist Mr. Richie Uy Delos Santos conceptualized the entire show.
Pageant categories include the Candy Land Production Number, Question and Answer Portion, Street wear Colored Denim Competition and the Emerald Green Victorian Ball Gown Formal Wear Competition.
GMall’s endorser and Tawag ng Tanghalan Kid’s, Davao’s Little Daniel Padilla Nico Tiu serenaded the girls.
Prizes include Cash, Gift Certificates , 4 year Full-Scholarship from STI Tagum, GiftPacks and special products from Sponsors.
The Return of Woody and Buzz
It’s been years since Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the gang said their goodbyes to their friend, Andy, which left all of us crying our eyes out at the cinema. These toys from our childhood are returning for another fun-filled adventure with new characters to love with the upcoming release of Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 4.
As a treat to all fans, SM City Davao, SM Cinema, PressPlay Pictures Philippines, Inc., and Walt Disney Company Philippines hosted the advance screening of Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 4, ahead of its release in all SM Cinemas.
Toy Story 4 is a magical movie to watch, along with its emotional and complex narratives that appeal to children and adults alike.
Toy Story 4 welcomes the newest member of the family, with Bonnie’s beloved new craft- project-turned-toy, named Forky. Forky declares himself as “trash” and not a toy, which Woody takes it upon himself to show Forky why he should embrace being a toy.
In the newest installment, Woody ends up on an unexpected detour that includes a reunion with his long-lost friend Bo Peep and introduces new characters like Duke Kaboom (voiced by Keanu Reeves), Ducky and Bunny.
Like the previous Toy Story, this newest Disney treat offers witty dialogue, creative plotting, recurring characters, and along with the new ones, an evocative score, and a heartfelt message of love, friendship and moving on.
SM City Davao offered customized photo booths, red carpet entrance, free popcorn, and drinks, as well as specialized Toy Story cupcakes for all the children. During the trivia games, Toy Story 4 exclusive movie merchandise items were given away that includes Toy Story 4 stickers, pencil case, set of pins and pouches.
Directed by Josh Cooley, and produced by Mark Nielsen and Jonas Rivera Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 4” ventures to Philippine theaters on June 20, 2019.
SM LITTLE STARS 2019
Lyka Jane Bayang (General Santos City), Caleb Hans Ong (Cagayan de Oro) and Krisha Mae Buynay (General Santos City) won the three regional spots for the singing, dancing, and special talents category and will advance to the Grand Finals at SM Mall of Asia to represent Mindanao.
SM Little Stars is indeed their shot at fame and fortune. With great anticipation, armed with good looks and full display of talents. Each winner will get Php 10,000 worth of SM Gift Certificates and our non-winners will each get SM Gift Certificates worth Php 1000.
From April to June 2019, Preliminary Screenings were held in SM City Davao, SM City General Santos, and SM City Cagayan de Oro in the hope of finding the most talented kids from all over Mindanao. A total of 15 kids ages 4-7 years old qualified for the regional finals competed last June 23, 2019. To be able to prepare for their performances, the kids also had the opportunity to undergo a workshop headed by Star maker and Songwriter/Musician Mr. Jeremy Sarmiento as well as WCOPA Silver Medalist Dancer/Teacher Ms. Kieziah Morales.
Grand Winners will win full scholarship from National University, a brand new car from Chevrolet, a contract from Regal Entertainment Inc., cash prizes and a trip to China, among others.
Panel of Judges include, Ms. Elsie “Chaka” Diamante Founder and Creative Director Flow Fitness Academy in Tagum,, Ms Glexcie Jazz Orosio Cardoza Occupational therapist practicing in a pediatric with private clinics both in Davao and in Kidapawan City and Musical Director of Songspell Philippines and Head of the Vocal Department of Muzic’s Kool, Ms.. Mignon “Koi” Sevilla.
Classical Meets Modern: Manila String Machine
Ayala Mall Abreeza’s mall-goers have been privileged to hear and witness the country’s best octet performance by the Manila String Machine last Feb 13, 2019, a pre-valentine showcase held at the Activity Center.
The group who is mostly composed of players and graduates from the top institutions here in the country gave awe-struck performances that made shoppers sit and watch the whole show. Their genre encompasses a gamut of musical styles from classical to modern music, specializing in rock, pop, jazz and contemporary music. Their musicality is an eclectic blend of ideas and collaboration from each member, making their music, well-written, as well as unique-intelligently, and artistically.
Manila String Machine enchanted everyone, as well as getting people up in their chairs with their Manila Sound Tribute and All- OPM Tribute, like “Manila” by The Hotdogs, “Kawawang Cowboy, “Handog”, TL Ako sa Iyo”, Blue Jeans, VST Medley, Up Dharma Down’s Tadhana, and Eraserheads Medley.
“We wanted to represent po, lahat ng mukha ng pag-ibig, may asawa, single man o it’s complicated. Sana makaka-relate kayo sa aming mga musika”, according to violinist/ arranger Ms. Silke Hipolito.
The second show highlighted songs from ‘80s to 90’s and year 2000, spawning the hits of Bruno Mars, Clean Bandit, The Corrs, AHA, Bon Jovi, Walk the Moon, Backstreet Boys.
The 3rd set was the most applauded, as Manila String Machine take the audience to listen to some of the most epic movie scores ever put up on the big screen, bombast with intensity and an uplifting and beautiful medley that takes us on a range of emotions that leaves us exhausted at the end.
The repertoire started with their version of the “Star Wars” theme that flawlessly captures the feeling of action and adventure, to the most applauded “Bohemian Rhapsody” movie theme “, Love of My Life” and “We Are the Champions”.
The show was a pre-Valentine treat by Ayala Malls Abreeza, to all the shoppers and being able to witness it, I should say the feeling of elation didn’t fade for a long time.
Indian Dance Festival
The Festival of India in the Philippines brought one of the most fascinating concerts of Indian Dance last January 22, 2019, at Davao Convention and Trade Center featuring Kuchipudi specialist Ms. Amrita Lahiri, who hails from Washing D.C. and later in India, touring with her dance mentors, Anuradha Nehru, and Leela Samson.
Her dance reflects the influences of all of these outstanding gurus and the experience of many performances. She presents the beauty and joy of dance while maintaining the precision and soul of the classical Kuchipudi form. I was even in awe of her aura, her natural charm, kindness, and her extraordinary personality, not to mention of the most astonishing and yet unaffected and natural performances I have ever seen.
Ms. Lahiri danced the “Murchhana”, based on stories from the oral tradition of the khol players (drummers) of rural Orissa. These stories have roots in ancient texts but have evolved into many branches, having been told over generations.
Critics describe her as ‘gifted with a radiant stage presence’, and her dance performances and choreographies have been acclaimed for their elegance and dynamism. She is empaneled as an artist with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations and has toured as a soloist in India, USA, Switzerland, South Korea, Africa, and Southeast Asia, presenting Kuchipudi from its traditional origins to its contemporary forms.
The dance concert was attended by the Indian Community in Davao, VIPS and Government officials. The Ambassador of India to the Philippines, His Excellency Mr. Jaideep Mazumdar, and his lovely wife also came to grace the event.
The concert was also a tribute to India’s revered and world icon, known as the “Father of the Nation,” Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th Birth Anniversary. It also featured award- winning Filipino singer, ethnomusicologist and cultural worker, Grace Nono, who sang, “ Vaishnav Jan” in the original Gujarati language, that was composed in the 15th century by the poet Narsinh Mehta and Gandhiji’s favorite bhajan or hymn.
Thank You to one of Davao’s best-known photographer, Mr. Gwen Manlangit for the event pictures and Ms. Raquel Palinsub coordinating team for the invitation.
American Idol Live in Davao
American Idol Jessica Sanchez still gives goosies’ years after finishing as runner-up, almost 7 years ago. Her SMX concert was not full-packed despite a powerhouse line –up of singers which include Bugoy Drillon, Daryl Ong and Mark Mabsa last Dec 21, 2018, yet they managed to entertain the crowd like no other, with Jessica still strongly affirming her fan base in the country. It was no longer surprising that Sanchez was patronized by both young and adult fans, as she sang mostly popular hits, mostly her audition pieces at American Idol.
Sanchez sauntered onstage and lost no time in opening the concert with songs like Endless Love, I’ll Be There, Proud Mary, Christmas Medley, Bohemian Rhapsody, Turn the Beat Around, and Perfect while narrating her harrowing journey in the Idol stage, how she managed the tension and pressure that comes with it.
“I started in ‘American Idol’ when I was only 16. The experiences I’ve been through my whole life have been surreal for me. It was such a huge blessing.” Sanchez excitedly told her Davao fans. Up to this day, the charming lass is grateful for the great experience she got from American Idol.
During her press conference at Pidok’s Matina, she added that she loves the idea of always been warmly received every time she visits the Philippines and she cannot be any happier.
Sanchez crystal clear voice and her stratospheric notes, claimed her niche in show business, as she adds, “I will pretty be here, a little bit longer.” And I couldn’t agree more.
Toddlers on the Runway
It was a kid takeover during the nationwide search for SM Casting Call Toddler Edition made its run in Davao City, at SM City Davao and SM Lanang Premier last Sept 23 and October 6, 2018.
The kids’ show proved to be the most fun of all— featuring trendy and styling tips to make kids ready for adventure. The event showcased clothes that kids would actually wear — distressed denim, chambray polo, graphic tees to make a fashion statement. The kids ripped the runway with clothes they purchased from SM Kids for a minimum purchase of only two thousand pesos.
SM Casting call is an annual event and competition that will give lucky kids the chance to step into the spotlight, experience a photo shoot and become the face of the next SM Kids campaign. SM Casting Call is open to kid’s ages 2 to 4 years old, and winners will receive P25,000 plus clothes sponsorship and a modeling stint.
As the tykes fumble and tumble onstage, they still manage to bow out with a bang while parents rallied on the sides. It was stylish, adorable and a show that truly warmed the audience hearts and amused us all. The SM Casting Call is made possible by SM Babies in cooperation with the SM Store.
FM 1 GOES LIVE
FM1 is the music flagship of the young and those who refuse to grow old. It is a commercial-free, less jibber jabber and music spree station with top-notch radio personalities on board, with a good blend of western and OPM talents.
DXRP (87.5 FM) Broadcasting as FM1 is a radio station in Davao City, offering with Top 40 format. This station is owned and operated by the government of the Philippines through the Philippine Broadcasting Service (PBS) under the Presidential Communications Group. It operates from 5:00 AM to 12:00 MN.
FM1 is headed by radio honchos headed by the Director General of the Philippine Broadcasting Service, Mr. Rizal “Bong” Aportadera Jr. a.k.a Sonny B. and PBS Deputy Director and Head of the FM Division, Mr. Carlo Jose Villo and headlines a host of exemplary radio personalities headed by its Station manager Mr. Harriet Deniel (Joe Fisher), and Mr. Maurice Abella, (Marketing Manager) both are strong at programming and brand marketing. Davao’s premier host and former MIX FM Station Manager Ms. Joey Sy-Domingo have joined the group to complete the trio of greats, she will lead the news and info department and is also the Station’s Program Director.
FM 1 and FM 2 made history as the only radio station who occupies the same frequency for both Manila and Davao. The station’s commercial-free segments are the perfect answer to online streaming services like Spotify, iTunes and even Youtube, which truly makes it at par in this digital age.
As for the name’s sake, they wanted to simplify everything as there is a need to make things easier for everyone, sans the radio jargon. FM 1 targets the “Millenials” and will be introducing new ways of messaging that will endear the young to be active, be informed, and be part of nation-building.
FM 2 topped the Nielsen Survey in Manila, a first in the history of government radio. And now that FM 1 is gaining attraction, it is not surprising if it will top the radio survey, anytime now.
The Duterte administration wants to solidify the government’s radio arm: Radio Pilipinas and the FM1 and FM2 and determined to fix all the 27 stations across the country from Batanes to Tawi-Tawi. FM1 will be transmitting at the Mindanao Broadcast Hub which land is on PBS Land. The station is currently entering a joint project with PTV and other attached agencies, as FM1 and RP1 will be a hub soon.
LET’S HAVE SOME FUNDS
“Let’s Have Some Funds” by Sun Life Financial is tapping millennial to learn a lot about how to handle finances specific to their age group. Sun Life is developing new ways to reach younger customers in channels where they prefer to be reached.
Held at Rekado Restaurant, bloggers and participants had the chance to win raffle prizes which include Starbucks Gift Certificates, and Sun Life Prosperity Card worth P5,000 which they can use to start investing in Sun Life mutual funds – an awesome way to get started with their financial journey.
With the topic “Money under 30”, millennials were given inputs about financial literacy which has always been Sun Life’s advocacy. Sun Life believes that Filipinos can only achieve financial security if they are able to make well-informed decisions when it comes to their money.
Guest Speakers during the event include Mr. Mark Bonifacio, owner of Elite Apparels, Inc. and Sweet Tree, Inc. He is also a real estate broker at PAREB Davao and a host of the show Time Off and Mr. Japee Fabian, Financial Advisor, Sun Life Financial.
Both gave a very informative talk, consultations as well as provide wise advice in drafting a financial vision board.
With Sun Life– getting an expert to guide our financial journey can make a big difference. In pursuing your life goals and creating a brighter future.
HIYAS NG KADAYAWAN 2018
Hiyas sa Kadayawan (Kagan) Ms. Nes-An Naraga
Hiyas sa Panaghiusa (Maranao) Sitti Aisha Lim
Hiyas sa Kalambuan (Bagobo K’lata) Karen Joy Dowing
Congratulations to all the Winners!
Coronation Day was held at RMC Flying V Event Center last August 11, 2018.
Happy 33rd Kadayawan (Aug 10-19)
Judges:
CelebrityActor Ricardo Cepeda
Celebrity Actress and Supermodel Marina Benipayo
Fashion Designer Carey Santiago
