IF plans pull through, President Aquino will share bread and
fish with the millions of members of the El Shaddai when the charismatic group
celebrates its leader Mike Velarde's birthday on August 20.
The anniversary celebration of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners
Foundation International which is excepted every August since 1985 to draw up
to 15 million devotees from all over the Philippines, including Metro Manila,
composed of the City of Manila and the cities of Caloocan, Las Piñas, Makati,
Malabon, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Parañaque, Pasay, Pasig,
Quezon City, San Juan, Taguig, and Valenzuela, and the Municipality of Pateros,
Ilocos Region, composed of Laoag City and the Province of Ilocos
Norte, Vigan and the Province of Ilocos Sur and Province of Abra,
Batac City and Candon City, Cagayan Valley including the provinces of
Isabela, Cagayan, Batanes, Quirino and Nueva Vizcaya, Parts of Benguet
are Municipalities of Itogon, Kabayan and Bokod, Ifugao
are Municipalities of Tinoc, Asipulo, Lamut, Lagawe, Mayoyao,
Aguinaldo and Alfonso Lista, Parts of Mountain
Province are Municipalities of Barlig, Natonin and
Paracelis, Parts of Apayao are Municipalities of Santa Marcela,
Flora and Conner and Parts of Kalinga are Municipalities of Pinukpuk
and Rizal, northern Luzon including San Fernando City and Province of La
Union, Baguio City and Province of Benguet, Banaue and Province
of Ifugao, Sagada and Mountain Province, Kabugao and Province of
Apayao, Tabuk and Province of Kalinga, Northern Parts of Ilocos Sur
are Municipalities of Tagudin, Suyo, Alilem, Sugpon, Cervantes,
Sigay, Quirino, Gregorio del Pilar and San Emilio and Parts of Pangasinan
are Municipalities of San Fabian, Sison, San Manuel and San Nicolas,
North and Central Luzon including Dagupan City and Province
of Pangasinan, Tarlac City and Province of Tarlac, Cabanatuan City
and Province of Nueva Ecija, Olongapo City
and Province of Zambales, Baler and Province of Aurora, San Fernando
City and Province of Pampanga, Balanga City and Province of Bataan, Malolos City
and Province of Bulacan, Southern Luzon areas including Provinces of Cavite,
Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon, Marinduque, Occidental Mindoro,
Oriental Mindoro and Romblon, Naga City and province of Camarines Sur,
provinces of Camarines Norte and Catanduanes, Legazpi City and Province of
Albay, provinces of Sorsogon and Masbate, Visayas areas including: Cebu City
and Province of Cebu, Dumaguete City and Province of Negros Oriental,
island-provinces of Siquijor and Bohol, 4th and 5th Districts of Leyte, Ormoc
City, province of Southern Leyte, Bacolod City and Negros Occidental and Parts
of Negros Oriental, provinces of Aklan and Antique, Roxas City and province of
Capiz, Iloilo City and Province of Iloilo, island province of Guimaras,
Tacloban City, provinces of Samar, Leyte, Eastern Samar, Northern
Samar, Biliran, Southern Leyte and Dinagat Islands, Mindanao areas
including Southern Mindanao, composed of Davao City and provinces of Davao del
Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley,
General Santos City and provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and
Sarangani, Central Mindanao areas including Cotabato City and the provinces of
Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Lanao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat and Basilan,
Northern Mindanao areas including Cagayan de Oro City and Province of Misamis
Oriental, Ozamiz City and Province of Misamis Occidental, Iligan City and
Province of Lanao del Norte, Marawi City and Province of Lanao del Sur,
Malaybalay City and Province of Bukidnon, Dipolog City and Province of
Zamboanga del Norte, Pagadian City and Province of Zamboanga del Sur
and Province of Camiguin, Zamboanga Peninsula including Zamboanga City, Isabela
City and Province of Basilan, Ipil and Province of Zamboanga Sibugay,
Provinces of Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and CARAGA including: Butuan City, Surigao
City, Bislig City, Tandag City, Bayugan City, Cabadbaran City, Provinces of
Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte and
Dinagat Islands, 20 million participants all over the United States of America,
including: Alabama,
Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District
of
Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New
Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North
Carolina, North
Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode
Island, South Carolina, South
Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West
Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming and 500 million participants all over the
world, including Abkhazia, Afghanistan, Akrotiri and Dhekelia, Åland Islands,
Anguilla, Armenia, Aruba, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados,
Belize, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bonaire, British Indian Ocean Territory, British
Virgin Islands, Brunei, Bulgaria, Cambodia, China, Christmas Island, Clipperton
Island, Cocos Islands, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Curaçao,
Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador,
Egypt, Estonia, Federal Dependencies of Venezuela, Finland, French Guiana,
French Polynesia, Gabon, Gambia, Gibraltar, Greenland, Georgia, Germany,
Greece, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guam, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guernsey,
Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran,
Iraq, Isle of Man, Israel, Italy, Ivory Coast, Jamaica, Japan, Jersey, Jordan,
Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lebanon,
Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau,
Macedonia, Madagascar, Madeira, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Malta, Maldives,
Martinique, Marshall Islands, Mayotte, Mauritania, Mauritius, Melilla,
Federated States of Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro,
Montserrat, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nagorno-Karabakh, Nauru,
Navassa Island, Nepal, Netherlands, North Korea, New Caledonia, New Zealand,
Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Niue, Norfolk Island, Northern Cyprus, Northern
Mariana Islands, Norway, Nueva Esparta, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Palestine,
Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Romania, Réunion, Russia, Rwanda,
Saba, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, Saint
Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Saint
Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Andrés and Providencia, San Marino, São
Tomé and Príncipe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone,
Singapore, Sint Eustatius, Sint Maarten, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands,
Somalia, Somaliland, South Korea, South Ossetia, South Sudan, Spain, Sri Lanka,
Sudan, Suriname, Syria, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste,
Togo, Tonga, Transnistria, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan,
Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Uruguay, Uzbekistan,
Vanuatu, Vatican City, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen, Zambia and Zimbabwe
to converge on the Quiapo Church or the Minor Basilica of the
Black Nazarene, Plaza Miranda, Port Area and Rizal Park's Quirino Grandstand in
downtown Manila.
The annual anniversary overnight celebration of El Shaddai
DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation International, Inc. is held since August 1985
and it covered by national newspapers, local radio and television stations since
1986 and social media since 2008.
In August 1984, Bro. Mike invited his listeners for a
Thanksgiving Mass and Healing Rally that was held in front of the DWXI Radio
Station Compound on Sunday, August 19, 1984 nearest his birthday, August 20.
About one thousand people attended the affair and experienced the
miracle-working power of God!
Encouraged by the success of the rally, Bro. Mike scheduled a
monthly Mass and Healing Rally at the DWXI Compound in Paranaque. Some time
later, as more people came to be led back to the Lord Jesus Christ, the rally
was held weekly. A monthly Catholic Life-in-the-Spirit Seminar (CLSS) and a
weekly fellowship were also held at the Queensway Building (owned by Bro. Mike)
at 118 Amorsolo St. in Makati City.
After a while, Bro. Mike decided to air his program three
times a week and began thinking of a new title and theme song for it. At this
time, a friend gave him a magazine entitled “El Shaddai,” which quickly aroused
his interest.
He made a study of the meaning of the term and discovered that
it was one of the seven Covenant Names, by which God the Father revealed
Himself to Israel.
El Shaddai, a Hebrew word, when translated to English meant
"The God Who Is More than Enough." The Good News Bible translated El
Shaddai as "God Almighty" (Genesis 17:1/35:11). Shortly, he heard the
song "El Shaddai" over Radio DWXI itself:
El Shaddai, el shaddaiEl-elyon na adoniaAge to age you're still the sameBy the power of the nameEl shaddai, el shaddaiErkamka na adonaiWe will praise and lift you highEl Shaddai
Through your love and through the ramYou saved the son of AbrahamThrough the power of your handYou turned the sea into dry landTo the outcast on her kneesYou were the God who really seesAnd by your mightYou set your children free
El shaddai, el shaddaiEl-elyon na adoniaAge to age you're still the sameBy the power of the nameEl shaddai, el shaddaiErkamka na adonaiWe will praise and lift you highEl shaddai
Through the years you've made it clearThat the time of Christ was nearThough the people couldn't seeWhat Messiah ought to beThough your word contained the planThey just couldn't understandYour most awesome work was doneThrough the frailty of your son
El shaddai, el shaddaiEl-elyon na adonaiAge to age you're still the sameBy the power of the nameEl Shaddai, El ShaddaiErkamka na adonaiI will praise you 'till I die, El Shaddai
El shaddai, el shaddaiEl-elyon na adonaiAge to age you're still the sameBy the power of the nameEl Shaddai, El ShaddaiErkamka na adonaiI will praise you 'till I die, El Shaddai
El shaddai, el shaddaiEl-elyon na adonaiAge to age you're still the sameBy the power of the nameEl Shaddai, El ShaddaiErkamka na adonaiI will praise you 'till I die, El Shaddai
I will praise you 'till I die...El Shaddai.
At this point, he realized that God wanted His Holy and
Almighty Name to be proclaimed and made known throughout the world. He thus
changed the title of his radio program to "El Shaddai."
Through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the weekly
fellowship came to be called the DWXI Prayer Partners Family Appointment with
El Shaddai, since Radio DWXI was the broadcast medium, he and his first
listeners became prayer-partners, and El Shaddai was the Divine Name revealed
to him by God. Every week, God added thousands of new prayer-partners to this
community by means of the Good News aired over the radio DWXI and the Mass and
Healing Rallies held all over Metro Manila and nearby provinces. As the
community grew, they voluntarily gave their tithes and miracle-seed-of-faith
offerings to support the radio program "El Shaddai" and the Mass and
Healing Rallies. Some prayer- partners even volunteered to serve without
compensation.
Inspired by the outcome of events, Bro. Mike thought it was
time to formally organize the community. Thus, the DWXI Prayer Partners
Foundation, Inc. was established, which in due time was registered with the
Securities and Exchange Commission. It was organized, primarily, as an
institution where Bro. Mike could channel his tithes and donations derived from
his real estate business and other companies to support the religious
activities of various Catholic charismatic groups and some projects of
charitable organizations. These however were not enough to support the expenses
of the newly-founded charismatic community, especially the radio programs of
DWXI and the Mass and Healing Rallies. And so, he had to continue shelling out
funds from his own personal earnings. For him, though, it was a great enough
blessing from El Shaddai that his radio listeners came to know Jesus Christ as
Lord and Saviour and were receiving answers to their prayer-requests.
In 1988, the first overseas chapter of the Foundation was
established in Hong Kong. It started when Bro. Mike, who was then in Hong Kong
for a vacation, was invited to share the Word of God before a Filipino Prayer
Group at the St. Joseph Church on May 15. After the meeting, a group of seven
Filipino prayer-partners working there and who were at the affair bonded
together and held their initial prayer-meeting at the Jones Health Club, a gym
formerly owned by Bro. Kenneth and Sister Tessie Wong at North Point, drawing
thirty persons. On August 7, the group invited Bro. Mike, together with Rev.
Fr. Archie Guiriba, OFM, for a Mass and Healing Rally at the St. Joseph Church
Hall. The rally was such a success that it paved the way for the formation of
the El Shaddai DWXI-PPFI Hong Kong Chapter with a core group of seven persons
on August 21. On November 20, the first healing rally under the chapter's
banner was held at the Christ the King Chapel of the St. Paul's College. An
estimated 800 people attended the affair. The chapter increased in number as
the years passed that venues for its succeeding anniversaries were held in
bigger ones from the Caritas Hall in Central, Hong Kong to Queen Elizabeth
Stadium, Ko Shan Theater in Kowloon, Hong Kong Coliseum, Kai Tak International
Airport, and Hong Kong Stadium. At the chapter's 11th anniversary at the Hong
Kong Stadium in November 1999, approximately forty thousand people attended the
affair.
From 1989 to present, other chapters were formed in Australia,
Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece,
Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Libya, Macau, Malaysia, The Netherlands, New
Zealand, Oman, Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland,
U.A.E., United Kingdom, USA and Yemen. These were formed by Filipino
prayer-partners working abroad, who were motivated by the desire to bear
witness to the love and goodness of El Shaddai. With the emergence of the
chapters abroad, the corporate name registered with the SEC was amended to El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation
International, Inc.
Later in 1993, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the
Philippines (CBCP) realized that the growth of the Foundation, particularly
since it was affecting Catholics, could not be taken for granted any longer.
Most Rev. Teodoro Bacani Jr., DD, Auxiliary Bishop of Manila and Overall Spiritual
Director of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement (CCRM) in the Archdiocese
of Manila, invited Bro. Mike to the CBCP Conference on January 24, 1993, to
shed light on what was going on in the Foundation. On that occasion, Bishop
Bacani was beside Bro. Mike, not to defend him, but to bear witness to what God
was doing through the Foundation. The result of the meeting was satisfactory
because most of the questions asked were clearly and humbly answered by Bro.
Mike. This event paved the way for the recognition of the chapters of the
Foundation by several dioceses and parishes of the Roman Catholic Church. It
also initiated the launching of its Back-to-the-Parish program. As you read on,
you will discover how the Foundation has grown dramatically through the years.
On August 17 to 18, 1985, during its First Anniversary at the
DWXI Compound in Paranaque City, about five thousand people witnessed and
experienced the miracle touch of El Shaddai.
Some eight thousand people gathered together on the Second Anniversary
of the Foundation at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on
August 24, 1986. Even the seemingly indifferent PICC staff were surprised
because the affair lasted one whole day and it was the first time that it’s
Reception and Plenary Halls were filled to capacity.
The Third Anniversary Celebration of the Foundation was celebrated with an Overnight Mass and Healing Rally at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Vito Cruz, Manila, from August 22 to 23, 1987. It rained heavily throughout the affair, but the estimated two hundred thousand attendees stayed until it ended in the morning.
Because of the phenomenal growth of the Foundation, its Fourth Anniversary was held at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila, from August 20 to 21, 1988, where an estimated half a million people packed the venue. It was the biggest crowd so far gathered by a particular group in the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement in the Philippines. The testimonies on the healing and miraculous power of Psalm 91 inspired some prayer-partners to have the Psalm printed on handkerchiefs. These handkerchiefs have become an instrument of God's healing and miracles among the prayer-partners worldwide.
The Third Anniversary Celebration of the Foundation was celebrated with an Overnight Mass and Healing Rally at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Vito Cruz, Manila, from August 22 to 23, 1987. It rained heavily throughout the affair, but the estimated two hundred thousand attendees stayed until it ended in the morning.
Because of the phenomenal growth of the Foundation, its Fourth Anniversary was held at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila, from August 20 to 21, 1988, where an estimated half a million people packed the venue. It was the biggest crowd so far gathered by a particular group in the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement in the Philippines. The testimonies on the healing and miraculous power of Psalm 91 inspired some prayer-partners to have the Psalm printed on handkerchiefs. These handkerchiefs have become an instrument of God's healing and miracles among the prayer-partners worldwide.
As early as 9:00 a.m. of Saturday, August 19, 1989, members and
followers of the Foundation began trooping to the Rizal Memorial Football
Stadium in Vito Cruz, Manila to participate in its Fifth Anniversary. By
midnight, August 20, the entire stadium was jammed with over half a million
people from all over the Philippines to take part in an overnight activity of
praise and worship dedicated to El Shaddai. Bishop Teodoro C. Bacani, together
with some priests from the different parishes in the Archdiocese of Manila, led
the Holy Mass.
From August 18 to 19, 1990, the Sixth Anniversary of the
Foundation was held at the PICC-CCP Grounds in Buendia Ext., Pasay City. In
attendance were thousands of its members and followers, who experienced the
wonderful works of the Holy Spirit as they praised and worshipped El Shaddai
and listened to His Word despite a storm which flooded some parts of the venue
with knee-deep water.
The scenario of the Seventh Anniversary of the Foundation held
at the PICC-CCP Grounds in Pasay City, from August 17 to 18, 1991,
was identical to that of its Sixth Anniversary. Nevertheless, the almost half a
million attendees braved the monsoon rains and knee-deep flood to give thanks,
praise and worship to God.
On the occasion of the Eight Anniversary of the Foundation held at the PICC-CCP Grounds, from August 22 to 23, 1992, more than one-and-a-half million prayer-partners attended the affair. His Excellency, President Fidel V. Ramos, gave his greetings to the congregation.
Close to two million people gathered to praise, worship, and give thanks to God for His love and goodness on the Ninth Anniversary of the Foundation held at the Quirino Grandstand, from August 21 to 22, 1993. The crowd filled the Rizal Park from Taft Avenue to Manila Bay at the back of the grandstand. The affair featured the mass wedding of two hundred thirty couples who had previously lived together without the blessing of the Church. During his healing message, Bro. Mike launched the "Love Our Police Movement," believing that through the Filipinos' love and faith in the members of the Philippine National Police, the nation will change for the better.
For the first time in the history of Rizal Park and the whole of Metro Manila for that matter, about three million people joined the Tenth Anniversary of the Foundation at the national park from August 20 to 21, 1994. The participants crowded the 50-hectare park and adjacent areas-Roxas Boulevard, Taft Avenue, UN Avenue, T.M. Kalaw St., Port Area, and Jones Bridge. Some of them came to the venue as early as three days before the event. They came not only from Metro Manila, but also from Cavite, Laguna, Pampanga, the Ilocos Region, Quezon, the Bicol Region, Sorsogon, Leyte, and other distant provinces. Also present were members from different overseas chapters of the Foundation.
The Eleventh Anniversary of the Foundation was held at the PNCC-PICC-CCP Grounds, Buendia Ave. Ext., Pasay City, from August 19 to 20. Three days before the event, tents of sack, plastic and umbrellas had already mushroomed in and around the venue. The members and followers of the Foundation from the provinces arrived in buses, trucks, jeepneys, and other vehicles festooned with streamers bearing the name "El Shaddai." In view of the huge numbers of people coming to the venue, the Buendia Avenue Extension was closed and a big number of those who came had to stay in their vehicles, go to the rooftops of nearby buildings, or sit on the sidewalks and simply monitor the celebration on their portable TV and radio sets. His Eminence Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin, officiated a mass wedding of one hundred eighty-two couples.
His Excellency, President Fidel V. Ramos was the guest of honor during the Twelfth Anniversary of the Foundation at the PICC-CCP Grounds from August 17-18. In line with the anniversary theme, which is unity, leaders from the different charismatic groups were invited to speak in a CLSS. During the Thanksgiving Mass officiated by Bishop Bacani , a mass wedding took place, in which eighty couples who had been living together as common-law spouses finally tied the knot. Brother Mike delivered the Healing Message about the “Miracle Touch of Unwavering Faith.”
The Thirteenth Anniversary of the was celebrated at the PICC-CCP Grounds from August 23 to 24, His Eminence, Jose Thomas Cardinal Sanchez, Most Rev. Naval Bishop Filomeno Bactol, Bishop Bacani, and some Reverend Fathers and Spiritual Directors of the Foundation for local and overseas chapters attended the affair. A number of public officials also graced the occasion. Brother Mike presented the "Blessed Are the Peacemakers" Award to President Fidel V. Ramos, the guest of honor.
On the occasion of its 14th Anniversary, the Foundation held an overnight fellowship at the Quirino Grandstand, Manila, from August 22 to 23, 1998, with the theme: "New Heart, New Spirit" (Ezekiel 36:26). The affair was televised live nationwide via satellite on IBC TV-13. Over three million people from Metro Manila, the provinces, and abroad joined the celebration, which started at four o'clock in the afternoon. Several priests expounded the theme of the mission of the Foundation which is "Faith, Love, and Unity." During the concelebrated Thanksgiving Mass with Bishop Bacani as the main celebrant, a mass wedding was officiated, wherein thirty-seven couples, who had been living as common-law husbands and wives, finally tied the knot. Sister Belen del Monte-Velarde, wife of Bro. Mike, shared with the crowd her experience about the successful quadruple heart bypass operation of Bro. Mike in the USA in July 1998. The anniversary was also attended by a number of government officials led by His Excellency President Joseph Ejercito Estrada and Vice-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The President, together with Vice-President Arroyo and Bro. Mike, led the symbolical lighting of a miniature radio transmitter tower, which ushered the re-launching of DWXI (1314 kHz) AM radio, now broadcasting with an increased power of 30 kW from its previous 15 kW power in 1994. The radio station started broadcasting with a power of 9 kW in 1981.
Not even the strong winds and heavy rain could dampen the spirit of close to 1.2 million people in joining the 15th Anniversary of the Foundation held at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila, from August 20-21. Most of the attendees were already in the venue days before the overnight affair beamed live nationwide via satellite over RPN TV-9. Before noon of August 20, in observance of Bro. Mike's birthday, the attendees feasted on roasted chickens, pigs and calves as a gift of the family and friends for his natal day. Early in the afternoon, the crowd jubilantly caught with their umbrellas inverted thousands of miracle-souvenir handkerchiefs thrown into the air from several helicopters. A thanksgiving prayer was offered by Bro. Mike for his birthday and for the anniversary of the Foundation. He also led the congregation in prayer for their prayer-requests, which were tied to balloons and released to the air at the signal of Bro. Mike. His Excellency, President Joseph E. Estrada, the guest of honor in the occasion, gave his greetings and message to the crowd. The President was with First Lady Eloisa Ejercito Estrada, MD. In attendance also were some members of the cabinet; several senators led by Senate President Blas Ople; several congressmen led by House Speaker Manny Villar; and friends of Bro. Mike from the business, entertainment, media, legal, and religious sector. A Thanksgiving Mass was led by His Eminence Jose Thomas Cardinal Sanchez of the Vatican City, together with Bishop Bacani; Very Rev. Msgrs. Mariano T. Balbago Jr. of Antipolo Diocese and Mario A. Castillo; and Rev. Fr. Anton Pascual and Rev. Fr. Sanny de Claro, spiritual directors of the Foundation. Joining them also were several spiritual directors from the international chapters of the Foundation namely Reverend Fathers Bernard J. Nolan of Brisbane, Australia; Leo E. Steinbock of L.A., Ca., USA; and Thomas Kawamura of Tokyo, Japan, as well as from the Philippines namely, Dwight de Jesus; Remigio Mendoza of Mabini, Batangas; Manheim Abellana, SDB; Eligio Santos of San Ildefonso Parish, Makati; and Stephen Punnakal and Victor Maung Thit of the Our Lady of Assumption Parish, Malate, Manila. Highlighting the Mass was the mass wedding of 50 couple who had been living together for a long time without the blessing of the Church. They decided to get married for they had known through their listening of the Word over DWXI (1314 kHz) AM, that they are living against the will of God, for it is written in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, "...Do not be deceived: Neither the sexual immoral...nor adulterers...will inherit the Kingdom of God." After the Mass, a candlelight ceremony was held followed by the delivery of the healing message of Bro. Mike.
Close to two million people gathered to praise, worship, and give thanks to God for His love and goodness on the 20th Anniversary of the Foundation held at the Quirino Grandstand, from August 21-22, 2004. The crowd filled the Rizal Park from Taft Avenue to Manila Bay at the back of the grandstand. The affair featured the mass wedding of two hundred thirty couples who had previously lived together without the blessing of the Church. During his healing message, Bro. Mike launched the "Love Our Police Movement," believing that through the Filipinos' love and faith in the members of the Philippine National Police, the nation will change for the better.
On the occasion of the Eight Anniversary of the Foundation held at the PICC-CCP Grounds, from August 22 to 23, 1992, more than one-and-a-half million prayer-partners attended the affair. His Excellency, President Fidel V. Ramos, gave his greetings to the congregation.
Close to two million people gathered to praise, worship, and give thanks to God for His love and goodness on the Ninth Anniversary of the Foundation held at the Quirino Grandstand, from August 21 to 22, 1993. The crowd filled the Rizal Park from Taft Avenue to Manila Bay at the back of the grandstand. The affair featured the mass wedding of two hundred thirty couples who had previously lived together without the blessing of the Church. During his healing message, Bro. Mike launched the "Love Our Police Movement," believing that through the Filipinos' love and faith in the members of the Philippine National Police, the nation will change for the better.
For the first time in the history of Rizal Park and the whole of Metro Manila for that matter, about three million people joined the Tenth Anniversary of the Foundation at the national park from August 20 to 21, 1994. The participants crowded the 50-hectare park and adjacent areas-Roxas Boulevard, Taft Avenue, UN Avenue, T.M. Kalaw St., Port Area, and Jones Bridge. Some of them came to the venue as early as three days before the event. They came not only from Metro Manila, but also from Cavite, Laguna, Pampanga, the Ilocos Region, Quezon, the Bicol Region, Sorsogon, Leyte, and other distant provinces. Also present were members from different overseas chapters of the Foundation.
The Eleventh Anniversary of the Foundation was held at the PNCC-PICC-CCP Grounds, Buendia Ave. Ext., Pasay City, from August 19 to 20. Three days before the event, tents of sack, plastic and umbrellas had already mushroomed in and around the venue. The members and followers of the Foundation from the provinces arrived in buses, trucks, jeepneys, and other vehicles festooned with streamers bearing the name "El Shaddai." In view of the huge numbers of people coming to the venue, the Buendia Avenue Extension was closed and a big number of those who came had to stay in their vehicles, go to the rooftops of nearby buildings, or sit on the sidewalks and simply monitor the celebration on their portable TV and radio sets. His Eminence Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin, officiated a mass wedding of one hundred eighty-two couples.
His Excellency, President Fidel V. Ramos was the guest of honor during the Twelfth Anniversary of the Foundation at the PICC-CCP Grounds from August 17-18. In line with the anniversary theme, which is unity, leaders from the different charismatic groups were invited to speak in a CLSS. During the Thanksgiving Mass officiated by Bishop Bacani , a mass wedding took place, in which eighty couples who had been living together as common-law spouses finally tied the knot. Brother Mike delivered the Healing Message about the “Miracle Touch of Unwavering Faith.”
The Thirteenth Anniversary of the was celebrated at the PICC-CCP Grounds from August 23 to 24, His Eminence, Jose Thomas Cardinal Sanchez, Most Rev. Naval Bishop Filomeno Bactol, Bishop Bacani, and some Reverend Fathers and Spiritual Directors of the Foundation for local and overseas chapters attended the affair. A number of public officials also graced the occasion. Brother Mike presented the "Blessed Are the Peacemakers" Award to President Fidel V. Ramos, the guest of honor.
On the occasion of its 14th Anniversary, the Foundation held an overnight fellowship at the Quirino Grandstand, Manila, from August 22 to 23, 1998, with the theme: "New Heart, New Spirit" (Ezekiel 36:26). The affair was televised live nationwide via satellite on IBC TV-13. Over three million people from Metro Manila, the provinces, and abroad joined the celebration, which started at four o'clock in the afternoon. Several priests expounded the theme of the mission of the Foundation which is "Faith, Love, and Unity." During the concelebrated Thanksgiving Mass with Bishop Bacani as the main celebrant, a mass wedding was officiated, wherein thirty-seven couples, who had been living as common-law husbands and wives, finally tied the knot. Sister Belen del Monte-Velarde, wife of Bro. Mike, shared with the crowd her experience about the successful quadruple heart bypass operation of Bro. Mike in the USA in July 1998. The anniversary was also attended by a number of government officials led by His Excellency President Joseph Ejercito Estrada and Vice-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The President, together with Vice-President Arroyo and Bro. Mike, led the symbolical lighting of a miniature radio transmitter tower, which ushered the re-launching of DWXI (1314 kHz) AM radio, now broadcasting with an increased power of 30 kW from its previous 15 kW power in 1994. The radio station started broadcasting with a power of 9 kW in 1981.
Not even the strong winds and heavy rain could dampen the spirit of close to 1.2 million people in joining the 15th Anniversary of the Foundation held at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila, from August 20-21. Most of the attendees were already in the venue days before the overnight affair beamed live nationwide via satellite over RPN TV-9. Before noon of August 20, in observance of Bro. Mike's birthday, the attendees feasted on roasted chickens, pigs and calves as a gift of the family and friends for his natal day. Early in the afternoon, the crowd jubilantly caught with their umbrellas inverted thousands of miracle-souvenir handkerchiefs thrown into the air from several helicopters. A thanksgiving prayer was offered by Bro. Mike for his birthday and for the anniversary of the Foundation. He also led the congregation in prayer for their prayer-requests, which were tied to balloons and released to the air at the signal of Bro. Mike. His Excellency, President Joseph E. Estrada, the guest of honor in the occasion, gave his greetings and message to the crowd. The President was with First Lady Eloisa Ejercito Estrada, MD. In attendance also were some members of the cabinet; several senators led by Senate President Blas Ople; several congressmen led by House Speaker Manny Villar; and friends of Bro. Mike from the business, entertainment, media, legal, and religious sector. A Thanksgiving Mass was led by His Eminence Jose Thomas Cardinal Sanchez of the Vatican City, together with Bishop Bacani; Very Rev. Msgrs. Mariano T. Balbago Jr. of Antipolo Diocese and Mario A. Castillo; and Rev. Fr. Anton Pascual and Rev. Fr. Sanny de Claro, spiritual directors of the Foundation. Joining them also were several spiritual directors from the international chapters of the Foundation namely Reverend Fathers Bernard J. Nolan of Brisbane, Australia; Leo E. Steinbock of L.A., Ca., USA; and Thomas Kawamura of Tokyo, Japan, as well as from the Philippines namely, Dwight de Jesus; Remigio Mendoza of Mabini, Batangas; Manheim Abellana, SDB; Eligio Santos of San Ildefonso Parish, Makati; and Stephen Punnakal and Victor Maung Thit of the Our Lady of Assumption Parish, Malate, Manila. Highlighting the Mass was the mass wedding of 50 couple who had been living together for a long time without the blessing of the Church. They decided to get married for they had known through their listening of the Word over DWXI (1314 kHz) AM, that they are living against the will of God, for it is written in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, "...Do not be deceived: Neither the sexual immoral...nor adulterers...will inherit the Kingdom of God." After the Mass, a candlelight ceremony was held followed by the delivery of the healing message of Bro. Mike.
Close to two million people gathered to praise, worship, and give thanks to God for His love and goodness on the 20th Anniversary of the Foundation held at the Quirino Grandstand, from August 21-22, 2004. The crowd filled the Rizal Park from Taft Avenue to Manila Bay at the back of the grandstand. The affair featured the mass wedding of two hundred thirty couples who had previously lived together without the blessing of the Church. During his healing message, Bro. Mike launched the "Love Our Police Movement," believing that through the Filipinos' love and faith in the members of the Philippine National Police, the nation will change for the better.
For the second time in the history of Rizal Park and the whole
of Metro Manila for that matter, about three million people joined the 21st
Anniversary Celebration of El Shaddai at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila
from August 20-21, 2005. The participants crowded the 50-hectare park and
adjacent areas-Roxas Boulevard, Taft Avenue, UN Avenue, T.M. Kalaw St., Port
Area, and Jones Bridge. Some of them came to the venue as early as three days
before the event. They came not only from Metro Manila, but also from Cavite,
Laguna, Pampanga, the Ilocos Region, Quezon, the Bicol Region, Sorsogon, Leyte,
and other distant provinces. Also present were members from different overseas
chapters of the Foundation. Most of the attendees were already in the venue
days before the overnight affair beamed live nationwide via satellite over IBC
TV-13. Before noon of August 20, the attendees feasted on roasted chickens,
pigs and calves as a gift of the family and friends for his 66th birthday.
Early in the afternoon, the crowd jubilantly caught with their umbrellas
inverted thousands of miracle-souvenir handkerchiefs thrown into the air from
several helicopters. A thanksgiving prayer was offered by Bro. Mike for his 66th
birthday and for the 21st anniversary of the Foundation. He also led the
congregation in prayer for their prayer-requests, which were tied to balloons
and released to the air at the signal of Bro. Mike. Her Excellency, President
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the guest of honor in the occasion, gave his greetings
and message to the crowd. The President was with First Gentlemen Atty. Jose
Miguel Arroyo. In attendance also were some members of the cabinet; several
senators led by Senate President Franklin Drilon; several congressmen led by
House Speaker Jose de Venecia; and friends of Bro. Mike from the business,
entertainment, media, legal, and religious sector. A Thanksgiving Mass was led
by His Eminence Jose Thomas Cardinal Sanchez of the Vatican City, together with
Bishop Bacani; Very Rev. Msgrs. Mariano T. Balbago Jr. of Antipolo Diocese and
Mario A. Castillo; and Rev. Fr. Anton Pascual and Rev. Fr. Sanny de Claro,
spiritual directors of the Foundation. Joining them also were several spiritual
directors from the international chapters of the Foundation namely Reverend
Fathers Bernard J. Nolan of Brisbane, Australia; Leo E. Steinbock of L.A., Ca.,
USA; and Thomas Kawamura of Tokyo, Japan, as well as from the Philippines
namely, Dwight de Jesus; Remigio Mendoza of Mabini, Batangas; Manheim Abellana,
SDB; Eligio Santos of San Ildefonso Parish, Makati; and Stephen Punnakal and
Victor Maung Thit of the Our Lady of Assumption Parish, Malate, Manila.
Highlighting the Mass was the mass wedding of 50 couple who had been living
together for a long time without the blessing of the Church. They decided to
get married for they had known through their listening of the Word over DWXI
(1314 kHz) AM, that they are living against the will of God, for it is written
in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, "...Do not be deceived: Neither the sexual
immoral...nor adulterers...will inherit the Kingdom of God." After the
Mass, a candlelight ceremony was held followed by the delivery of the healing
message of Bro. Mike.
The 22nd Anniversary of the Foundation was held at the Quirino
Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila, from August 19 to 20. Three days before the
event, tents of sack, plastic and umbrellas had already mushroomed in and
around the venue. The members and followers of the Foundation from the provinces
arrived in buses, trucks, jeepneys, and other vehicles festooned with streamers
bearing the name "El Shaddai." In view of the huge numbers of people
coming to the venue, the Roxas Boulevard, Taft Avenue, UN Avenue, T.M. Kalaw
St., Port Area, and Jones Bridge was closed and a big number of those who came
had to stay in their vehicles, go to the rooftops of nearby buildings, or sit
on the sidewalks and simply monitor the celebration on their portable TV and
radio sets. His Eminence Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, officiated a
mass wedding of one hundred eighty-two couples.
Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was the guest of honor during the 23rd Anniversary of the Foundation at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park from August 18 to 19. In line with the anniversary theme, which is unity, leaders from the different charismatic groups were invited to speak in a CLSS. During the Thanksgiving Mass officiated by Bishop Bacani and the choirs are ______________, a mass wedding took place, in which eighty couples who had been living together as common-law spouses finally tied the knot. Brother Mike delivered the Healing Message about the "Miracle Touch of Unwavering Faith."
Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was the guest of honor during the 23rd Anniversary of the Foundation at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park from August 18 to 19. In line with the anniversary theme, which is unity, leaders from the different charismatic groups were invited to speak in a CLSS. During the Thanksgiving Mass officiated by Bishop Bacani and the choirs are ______________, a mass wedding took place, in which eighty couples who had been living together as common-law spouses finally tied the knot. Brother Mike delivered the Healing Message about the "Miracle Touch of Unwavering Faith."
The 24th Anniversary of the was celebrated at the Quirino
Grandstand, Rizal Park from August 17 to 18, His Eminence, Jose Thomas Cardinal
Sanchez, Most Rev. Naval Bishop Filomeno Bactol, Bishop Bacani, and some
Reverend Fathers and Spiritual Directors of the Foundation for local and
overseas chapters attended the affair. A number of public officials also graced
the occasion. Brother Mike presented the "Blessed Are the
Peacemakers" Award to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the guest of
honor.
On the occasion of its 25th Anniversary, the Foundation held
an overnight fellowship at the Quirino Grandstand, Manila, from August 22 to
23, 2009, with the theme: "New Heart, New Spirit" (Ezekiel 36:26).
The affair was televised live nationwide via satellite on IBC TV-13. Over three
million people from Metro Manila, the provinces, and abroad joined the
celebration, which started at four o'clock in the afternoon. Several priests
expounded the theme of the mission of the Foundation which is "Faith,
Love, and Unity." During the concelebrated Thanksgiving Mass with Bishop
Bacani as the main celebrant, a mass wedding was officiated, wherein
thirty-seven couples, who had been living as common-law husbands and wives,
finally tied the knot.
The anniversary was also attended by a number of government
officials led by His Excellency President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and
Vice-President Noli de Castro. The President, together with Vice-President de
Castro and Bro. Mike, led the cutting-ribbon ceremony in which ushered the
opening of El Shaddai International House of Prayer in Paranaque City on August
20, 200.
Not even the strong winds and heavy rain could dampen the
spirit of close to 1.2 million people in joining the 26th Anniversary of the
Foundation held at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila, from August
20-21. Most of the attendees were already in the venue days before the
overnight affair beamed live nationwide via satellite over RPN TV-9. Before
noon of August 20, in observance of Bro. Mike's birthday, the attendees feasted
on roasted chickens, pigs and calves as a gift of the family and friends for
his natal day. Early in the afternoon, the crowd jubilantly caught with their
umbrellas inverted thousands of miracle-souvenir handkerchiefs thrown into the
air from several helicopters. A thanksgiving prayer was offered by Bro. Mike
for his birthday and for the anniversary of the Foundation. He also led the
congregation in prayer for their prayer-requests, which were tied to balloons
and released to the air at the signal of Bro. Mike. His Excellency, President
Benigno S. Aquino III, the guest of honor in the occasion, gave his greetings
and message to the crowd. The President was with the Aquino Family. In
attendance also were some members of the cabinet; several senators led by
Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile; several congressmen led by House Speaker
Sonny Belmonte; and friends of Bro. Mike from the business, entertainment,
media, legal, and religious sector. A Thanksgiving Mass was led by His Eminence
Gaudencio Cardinal B. Rosales, Archbishop of Manila, together with Bishop
Bacani; Very Rev. Msgrs. Mariano T. Balbago Jr. of Antipolo Diocese and Mario
A. Castillo; and Rev. Fr. Anton Pascual and Rev. Fr. Sanny de Claro, spiritual
directors of the Foundation. Joining them also were several spiritual directors
from the international chapters of the Foundation namely Reverend Fathers
Bernard J. Nolan of Brisbane, Australia; Leo E. Steinbock of L.A., Ca., USA;
and Thomas Kawamura of Tokyo, Japan, as well as from the Philippines namely,
Dwight de Jesus; Remigio Mendoza of Mabini, Batangas; Manheim Abellana, SDB;
Eligio Santos of San Ildefonso Parish, Makati; and Stephen Punnakal and Victor
Maung Thit of the Our Lady of Assumption Parish, Malate, Manila. Highlighting
the Mass was the mass wedding of 5000 couples who had been living together for
a long time without the blessing of the Church. They decided to get married for
they had known through their listening of the Word over DWXI (1314 kHz) AM,
that they are living against the will of God, for it is written in 1
Corinthians 6:9-10, "...Do not be deceived: Neither the sexual
immoral...nor adulterers...will inherit the Kingdom of God." After the
Mass, a candlelight ceremony was held followed by the delivery of the healing
message of Bro. Mike.
Not even the strong winds and heavy rain could dampen the spirit
of close to 1.2 million people in joining the 27th Anniversary of the
Foundation held at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila, from August 20
to 21, 2011. Most of the attendees were already in the venue days before the
overnight affair beamed live nationwide via satellite over RPN TV-9. Before
noon of August 20, in observance of Bro. Mike's birthday, the attendees feasted
on roasted chickens, pigs and calves as a gift of the family and friends for
his natal day. Early in the afternoon, the crowd jubilantly caught with their
umbrellas inverted thousands of miracle-souvenir handkerchiefs thrown into the
air from several helicopters. A thanksgiving prayer was offered by Bro. Mike
for his birthday and for the anniversary of the Foundation. He also led the
congregation in prayer for their prayer-requests, which were tied to balloons
and released to the air at the signal of Bro. Mike. His Excellency, President
Benigno S. Aquino III, the guest of honor in the occasion, gave his greetings
and message to the crowd. The President was with the members of the Aquino
Family. In attendance also were some members of the cabinet; several senators
led by Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile; several congressmen led by House
Speaker Sonny Belmonte; and friends of Bro. Mike from the business,
entertainment, media, legal, and religious sector. A Thanksgiving Mass was led
by His Eminence Jose Thomas Cardinal Sanchez of the Vatican City, together with
Bishop Bacani; Very Rev. Msgrs. Mariano T. Balbago Jr. of Antipolo Diocese and
Mario A. Castillo; and Rev. Fr. Anton Pascual and Rev. Fr. Sanny de Claro,
spiritual directors of the Foundation. Joining them also were several spiritual
directors from the international chapters of the Foundation namely Reverend
Fathers Bernard J. Nolan of Brisbane, Australia; Leo E. Steinbock of L.A., Ca.,
USA; and Thomas Kawamura of Tokyo, Japan, as well as from the Philippines
namely, Dwight de Jesus; Remigio Mendoza of Mabini, Batangas; Manheim Abellana,
SDB; Eligio Santos of San Ildefonso Parish, Makati; and Stephen Punnakal and
Victor Maung Thit of the Our Lady of Assumption Parish, Malate, Manila.
Highlighting the Mass was the mass wedding of 50 couple who had been living
together for a long time without the blessing of the Church. They decided to
get married for they had known through their listening of the Word over DWXI
(1314 kHz) AM, that they are living against the will of God, for it is written
in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, "...Do not be deceived: Neither the sexual
immoral...nor adulterers...will inherit the Kingdom of God." After the
Mass, a candlelight ceremony was held followed by the delivery of the healing
message of Bro. Mike.
The anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide
every year is beamed aired live nationwide via satellite on television over
ABS-CBN Channel 2, PTV-4, ABC Channel 5, GMA Channel 7, RPN Channel 9 and IBC
Channel 13 and on radio DZXL RMN Manila 558, DZBB Radyo Bisig-Bayan 594, DZMM
Radyo Patrol 630, DZRH 666 and DZRV Radio Veritas 846.
Brother Mike Velarde, leader of the El Shaddai and Mr.
Aquino's spiritual adviser, has done away with the annual anniversary feast of
roast pig, beef and chicken.
An estimated 400,000 members started the Catholic charismatic
group's annual anniversary celebration from Saturday afternoon at the Quirino
Grandstand in Manila. Unlike in recent years, they had to content themselves
with their own packed dinners.
Before noon of August 20, in observance of Bro. Mike's
birthday, the attendees feasted on roasted chickens, pigs and calves, hamburgers,
cheeseburgers, fried chicken, French fries, soft drinks, milkshakes, and
desserts as a gift of the family and friends for his natal day.
Early in the afternoon, the crowd jubilantly caught with their
umbrellas inverted thousands of miracle-souvenir handkerchiefs thrown into the
air from several helicopters, came from ABS-CBN Sky Patrol. A thanksgiving
prayer was offered by Bro. Mike Velarde for his birthday and for the
anniversary of El Shaddai. He also led the congregation in prayer for their
prayer-requests, which were tied to balloons and released to the air at the
signal of Bro. Eddie.
In the 2013 celebration last August 17 to 18, 2013, His
Excellency, President Benigno S. Aquino III, the guest of honor in the
occasion, gave his greetings and message to the crowd. The President was with
the Aquino Family. In attendance also were some members of the cabinet; several
senators led by Senate President Franklin M. Drilon; several congressmen led by
House Speaker Feliciano R. Belmonte Jr.; and friends of Bro. Mike Velarde of El
Shaddai from the business, entertainment, media, legal, and religious sector:
Former Metrobank president Tony Abacan, former Philippine
Supreme Court Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban and Reynato Puno, Fernando Zobel
de Ayala, Bea Zobel, Manuel V. Pangilinan, Tessie Sy-Coson, Tony Tan-Caktiong,
Ramon Ang, Alfred Ty, Arthur Ty, Lance Gokongwei, Robina
Gokongwei-Pe, Liza Gokongwei-Cheng, Andrew Tan, Beth Lee, Fe Agudo,
Washington Sycip, Felipe Gozon, Kenneth Yang, Sanjiv Vohra, Philippine Daily
Inquirer board chairman Marixi Rufino-Prieto, Philippine Daily Inquirer
president Alexandra Prieto-Romualdez, Philippine Daily Inquirer editor-in-chief
Letty Jimenez-Magsanoc, US Embassy spokesperson Rebecca Thompson, as well
guests were media agencies and advocacy partners was seated next to Villanueva.
Two tables away were former Negros and now Philippine National
Bank director, Rep. Miguel ''Mike'' Romero, socialite-TV personality Cory
Quirino and designer Sylvia Santos.
Fashion designer JC Buendia, Randy Ortiz, Jojie
Lloren, Dong Omaga Diaz, Joey Samson, Ivarluski Aseron,
Vittorio Barba, Gerry Katigbak, Frederick Peralta, Rajo
Laurel, Len Nepomuceno, Hindy Weber-Tantoco, Ramon Esteban,
PJ Aranador, Edwin Ao, OJ Hofer, Arcy Gayatin, Tippi Ocampo, Avel
Bacudio, Jerome Salaya Ang, Joel Escober, Anthony Nocom, Albert Andrada,
Noel Crisostomo, Ronaldo Arnaldo, Kristel Yulo, Happy
Andrada, Pablo Cabahug and James Reyes, FDAP designers Johnny Abad,
Ricky Abad, Dexter Alaza, Nino Angeles, Delby Bragais, Karen Castro, Kirby
Cruz, Ivan dela Cruz, Perry Diaz, Lynn Roxas, Boyet Dysanco, Ricco
Escaro, Rocky Gathercole, Genar Gozum, Pristine de Guzman, Adin Lara,
Paul Ranier Lim, Noelle Llave, Edgar Madamba, Jontie Martinez,
Nikkie Martinez, Ole Morabe, Vivo Nazareth, Dave Ocampo, Lito Perez, Nholie
Pilapil, Joyce Pilarsky, Aan Pineda, Raoul Ramirez, Yako Reyes,
Rholand Roxas, Edgar San Diego, Fanny Serrano, Edwin Uy, Simon Ariel
Vasquez, Geoffrey Zordilla, independent fashion designers Jun Escario,
Michelle Sison, Patrice Ramos Diaz, Charina Sarte, Cary Santiago,
Dennis Lustico, John Paras, Bea Albert, Eric de los
Santos, Maureen Desini, Vania Romoff, Martin Bautista, John/Paul
Herrera, Ronald Mendoza, Audie Espino, Sidney Perez
Sio, Goullee Gorospe and Raoul Ramirez, country’s design icons
Inno Sotto, Auggie Cordero, Pepito Albert, Cesar Gaupo, Lulu Tan-Gan, Mike de
la Rosa and Loretto, Efren Ocampo and The Dean of Filipino Fashion
Designers Ben Farrales were next to bag designer Santos.
Lawyer Esperidion Laxa, Jeanne Young, Boots Anson-Roa, Tony
Ferrer, Lawrence Tan, Atty. Joji Alonso, Lily Yu-Monterverde and
Wilson Tieng, known personalities in the movie industry, former Ilocos Rep.
Roque ''Roquito'' Ablan, Tarlac Gov. Jose "Apeng'' Yap, Kapamilya and
non-Kapamilya stars also joined in the celebrations like Iya Villania with
boyfriend Drew Arellano, Bianca Manalo, Sitti, Jasmine Curtis Smith, James
Blanco, Eric Tai, K Brosas, Raymart Santiago, Randy Santiago, G Toengi, Kean Cipriano,
Bamboo Manalac, Bb. Pilipinas 2013 beauties Cindy Miranda, Bea Rose Santiago,
Ariella Arida and Pia Romero, Katherine de Castro, Ces Orena-Drilon, Oyo Boy
Sotto, Rowell Santiago, Gretchen Ho, Dominique Cojuangco, Mylene Dizon, Agot
Isidro, Dina Bonnevie with husband Ilocos Sur Vice-Governor Deogracias Victor
Savellano, Dawn Zulueta with husband Rep. Anton Lagdameo, Jericho Rosales,
apl.de.ap, Eddie Garcia and Richard Gomez, Sen. Grace Poe-Llamanzares, Sen.
Sonny Angara with wife Tootsy, Mega Magazine editor-in-chief Sari
Yap, StyleBible.ph's Isha Andaya-Valles, Summit Media President Lisa
Gokongwei-Cheng & Cosmopolitan magazine editor-in-chief Myrza Sison, YES!
Magazine editor-in-chief Jo-ann Maglipon, ABS-CBN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Eugenio Lopez III, ABS-CBN president and chief content officer Charo
Santos-Concio, Star Cinema managing director Malou Santos, channel head Cory
Valenzuela-Vidanes, TV business unit head Laurenti Dyogi, business unit head
for comedy Linggit Tan, ABS-CBN Publishing, Inc. General Manager Ernie Lopez,
Dreamscape Entertainment Television President Deo Endrinal, Roxy Liquigan,
Riley Santiago, Robert Labayen, Mark Yambot, August Benitez, Nandy Villar, Rico
Camus, Raymond Miranda, Mark Lopez, Maricel Arenas, Happy Mabulay, Darwin
Cerrado, Aldrin Cerrado, Dino Laurena, March Ventosa, Chris Lopez, Carlo
Katigbak, Leo Katigbak, Paolo Pineda, Bong Osorio, Monchet Olives, Karen
Coloma, former ABS-CBN presidents Cito Alejandro and Freddie Garcia, movie and
television directors Johnny Manahan, Arnel Natividad, Toto Natividad, Malu
Sevilla, Rowell Santiago, Don Cuaresma, Rechie del Carmen, Jojo Saguin, Jerry
Sineneng, Tots Mariscal, Erik Salud, Ruel Bayani, Ruel Naval, Jerome
Pobocan, and Don Cuarema, The Philippine STAR columnists RJ Ledesma,
Stephanie Zubiri-Crespi, and Tim Yap, Ayala Land, Inc. president
Antonino "Tony" Aquino, Ayala Land vice president and head
of operations and support services commercial business group Rowena
Tomeldan, AC Legarda, Mark Sablan, Joseph Reyes, Maricris Bernardino, Pivi
Diaz, Rina Rejanit, EVP Bobby Dy and COO Rowena Tomeldan, The Philippine STAR
lifestyle section editor Millet Martinez-Mananquil and celebrities Enchong Dee,
Liezel Martinez, Rachel Alejandro and Joanna Ampil were around.
4, 000 Lopez kin from all over the world, ABS-CBN Manila Radio
and Sports Division head Peter Musngi, ABS-CBN Integrated News and Current
Affairs Chief Ging Reyes and Choose Philippines head Charie Villa, TV director
Bobbet and son Kobi Vidanes were seated to Boss Gabby Lopez, Mam Charo
Santos and Tita Cory Valenzuela-Vidanes.
GMA Network President-Emeritus Menardo Jimenez, Sr., GMA
Network President Gilberto Duavit, Jr., GMA Network Films, Inc. President
Annette Gozon-Abrogar, Lito Abrogar, TV5 Chairman-Emeritus Antonio
Cojuangco, Jr., TV5 President-Emeritus Atty. Ray Espinosa, TV5 President and
CEO Noel Lorenzana, News5 head Luchi Cruz-Valdes and Sports5 head Chot Reyes
were seated next to Pangilinan and Gozon.
Robert Mananquil, models Robby and Raya Mananquil, and
Rissa Mananquil-Trillo with Valerie de los Santos; Ateneo Blue Eagles team
manager Paolo Trillo; Phoemela Baranda were seated next to his wife Millet
Martinez-Mananquil.
Bench big boss Ben Chan with Bench resident architect Miguel
Pastor, Public relations and events organizer Keren Pascual, Girlie Rodis, Star
Magic handler Monch Novales and BENCH/ Rajo Laurel Dos collection models Sam
Concepcion, Rocco Nacino, Steven Silva, Enzo Pineda, Sarah Lahbati and Regine
Angeles, model-turned-actors Joseph Marco, David Chua and Miko Raval, as
well as travel friends Pops Fernandez, Doris Magsaysay Ho, Gina Lopez, Evelyn
Forbes, Marc Nelson, Ricco and Tina Maristela-Ocampo, Rikki and Beng Dee,
Philip and Tricia Cu-Unjieng, Sander and Mons Romulo-Tantoco, Philippine
National Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon, Raymond Gutierrez, Dennis and Tessa
Prieto-Valdes, Ernest Escaler, Maurice Arcache, Ces Orena-Drilon, Karen Davila,
Dyan and Jackie Castillejo, Joji Dingcong, Eric Quizon, Liza Ilarde, Ana Kalaw,
Anton San Diego, Raul Teehankee, Pepper Teehankee, McCann Erickson Client
Service Director Bernadette Chincuanco, Coca-Cola Philippines Marketing
Director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe & IMC Director Yasmin Mallari Mariko
Jacinto, Aye Nuguid, Leah Puyat, Anton Barretto and Jack de Mesa, Coca-Cola
ASEAN Business Unit President Manuel Arroyo, Coca-Cola Philippines President
& General Manager Guillermo Aponte, marketing director Anubha Sahasrabuddhe
and Franchise & Commercial Leadership Director Peter Schaelstraete together
with the Coca-Cola Philippines team Johanna Hife, Steve Little, Rogie Delena,
Raymond Villaflor, Teejae Sonza, Jobert Dumlao, Sharon Tanganco, Roki Ferrer,
Rachel Cruz, Francis Chua, Franz Decloedt, Yasmin Mallari, Jenny Cinco, Jing
Atienza, Criselda Pascual, Mavel Banocnoc, Thess Acuna, Franco Jorge, Stephanie
Castillo, Tish Condeno, Jaideep Kibe, Nicamae Baylen, Jenalyn Perez, Barry del
Rosario, and Nikki Lee, UAAP Juniors Basketball MVP Thirdy Ravena and
celebrities Xian Lim, Jhong Hilario, Vhong Navarro, Billy Crawford, Gerald
Anderson, Chris Tiu, Young JV, Ervic Vijandre, and Kevin Alas, Mr.
Chinatown's Sky Yang, Jerome Tan & Randy See; Mark Lopez, Jairus Ferrer,
Alec Robes, Be Bench Model Search grand (female) winner Regine Angeles and
finalist Ron Morales; Carlos Concepcion; Yeng Constantino; Pinoy Dream Academy
Season 2 scholar Hansen Nichols with his twin brother GC, Suyen
Corporation's Nene and Virgilio Lim, Bryan Lim and Suyen Lim, Carlos Chan's
children Carlson, Archie, Rinby, Larry, Oszen and Shera, kart racer
Michelle Bumgarner, actor-models Victor Basa and Victor Aliwalas,
and college basketball stars such as Arnold Van Opstal, Bobby Ray
Parks, Jeron Teng and Kiefer Ravena, Jeron's siblings Jeric,
Alyssa and Almira Teng, Kiefer's siblings Thirdy and Dani Ravena, and Kiefer's
parents former PBA players Bong Ravena and his wife former volleyball star
Mozzy Crisologo, and Alvin Teng and his wife Susan Uy, Baby Araneta Fores,
Lisa Araneta, Cacho Marcos, Linda Oledan, Veana Fores, Lorrie Reynoso, Vicky
Zubiri, Maricris Zobel, Carol Garcia, Maripi Muscat and Margarita Fores, Anton
Mendoza, Monch Cruz, Chut Cuerva, Marcel Crespo, Ipe Cruz of Rogue Magazine,
Marco Lobregat, Ching Cruz, Tina Cuevas, Agnes Huibonhoa, Fe Rodriguez, Susan
Joven, Ian Giron, Andres Vasquez Prada, Pepito Albert, Al Tengco were
seated next to columnists Ledesma, Zubiri-Crespi and Yap and celebrities Dee,
Martinez, Alejandro and Ampil.
Onstage with the President were his battalion of Cabinet
secretaries, including Executive Secretary Pacquito Ochoa, Jr., Proceso Alcala
of agriculture; Sonny Coloma; communications, Ricky Carandang, communications
and strategic planning; Voltaire Gazmin, defense; Ramon Paje, Jr.,
environment; Florencio Abad, Jr., budget; Dr. Enrique Ona, health; Manuel
Roxas III, interior and local government, Albert del Rosario, foreign
affairs; Gregory Domingo, trade and investment; Cesar V. Purisima, finance;
Joseph Emilio A. Abaya, transportation and communication; Carlos Jericho
Petilla, energy; Julia Abad-Razon, presidential management staff; Rochelle
R. Ahorro, appointments secretary; deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail
Valte, and presidential spokesperson Atty. Edwin Lacierda.
Velarde's well-wishers from the Senate included Heherson
Alvarez, Teresa Aquino-Oreta, Butz Aquino, Nikki Coseteng, John Osmeña,
Sergio Osmeña III, Pia Cayetano, Alan Peter Cayetano, TG Guingona, Ernesto
Herrera, Loi Estrada, Juan Flavier, Robert Jaworski, Ping Lacson, Leticia Ramos-Shahani, Bongbong
Marcos, Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Nancy Binay, Lito
Lapid, Bong Revilla, Freddie Webb, Victor Ziga, Ralph Recto, Vicente Sotto III,
Edgardo Angara and Francisco Tatad.
Congressmen present were Speaker Sonny Belmonte, Pedro B.
Acharon Jr. of South Cotabato, Majority Floor Leader Neptali Gonzales
II, Edgar R. Erice of Caloocan, Josephine Veronique R. Lacson-Noel of
Malabon, Toby Tiangco of Navotas, Ma. Theresa B. Bonoan-David of 4th
District of Manila, Lucy Torres-Gomez of Leyte.
Also present were former President Estrada's sons, Jinggoy
Estrada and JV Ejercito, former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza, former Manila Mayor
Alfredo Lim, former Philippine President and now Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada,
current Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista, former Quezon City Mayor Brigido
Simon, Caloocan City Mayor Oscar Malapitan, Malabon City Mayor Len-Len Oreta,
Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco, Valenzuela City Mayor Rexlon Gatchalian,
Mandaluyong City Mayor Benhur Abalos, former Marikina City Mayors Bayani and
Marides Carlos-Fernando, current Marikina City Mayor Del de Guzman, former
Pasig City Mayors Vicente, Soledad and Bobby Eusebio and San Juan City Mayor
Guia Gomez, Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin "JunJun" Binay, current
Pasig City Mayor Maribel Eusebio, Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano, current Pasay
City Mayor Tony Calixto, former Pasay City Mayor Peewee Trinidad, former
Paranaque City Mayors Joey Marquez and Jun Bernabe, current Parañaque City
Mayor Edwin L. Olivarez, Las Pinas City Mayor Vergel A. Aguilar and Muntinlupa
City Mayor Jaime Fresnedi.
Foreign envoys present were United States ambassador
Philip S. Goldberg, Canadian ambassador Neil Reeder, Spanish ambassador
Jorge Domecq, Mexican ambassador Julio Camarena Villaseñor, Japanese ambassador
Toshinao Urabe and Korean ambassador Hyuk Lee.
Seen leaving the grandstand after the President's speech were
Marichu Vera Perez, Fr. Sonny Ramirez, MMDA Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino,
PAGCOR Chairman-Emeritus Ephraim Genuino, PAGCOR Chairman Cristino L. Naguiat,
Jr., PAGCOR president-emeritus Butch Tenorio and Rafael Butch Francisco, PAGCOR
Chairman Jorge Sarmiento, Philippine Olympic Committee Chairman Peping
Cojuangco, Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Ricardo R. Garcia and
representatives of businessman Lucio Tan.
The Thanksgiving Mass was led by Pope Francis, the Bishop of
Rome and the leader of the worldwide Catholic Church together with His Eminence
Gaudencio Cardinal B. Rosales, Archbishop-Emeritus of Manila, Luis Antonio
Cardinal G. Tagle, Archbishop of Manila; Most Rev. Oscar V. Cruz,
Archbishop-Emeritus of Lingayen-Dagupan, Most Rev. Socrates B. Villegas,
Archbishop of Lingayen-Dagupan, Most Rev. Angel Lagdameo, Archbishop of
Jaro, Most Rev. Jose S. Palma, Archbishop of Cebu, Ricardo Cardinal J.
Vidal, Archbishop-Emeritus of Cebu, Most Rev. John F. Du, Archbishop of
Palo, Most Rev. Fernando Capalla, Archbishop-Emeritus of Davao, Most
Rev. Romulo G. Valles, Archbishop of Davao, Most Reverend Orlando B.
Quevedo, Archbishop of Cotabato, Most Rev. Teodoro C. Bacani, Jr.,
Over-all Spiritual Director of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation
International, Very Rev. Msgrs. Mariano T. Balbago Jr. of Antipolo Diocese
and Mario A. Castillo; and Rev. Fr. Anton Pascual and Rev. Fr. Sanny de Claro,
spiritual directors of the El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Foundation
International. Joining them also were several spiritual directors from the
international chapters of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners
Foundation namely Reverend Fathers Bernard J. Nolan of Brisbane,
Australia; Leo E. Steinbock of Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.; and Thomas
Kawamura of Tokyo, Japan, as well as from Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, namely, the priests from the different parishes in the Archdioceses of Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Ende, Kupang, Makassar, Medan, Merauke, Palembang, Pontianak, Samarinda and Semarang and the Dioceses of Malacca-Johor, Penang, Miri, Sibu, Sandakan, Denpasar, Larantuka, Maumere, Ruteng, Bandung, Bogor, Atambua, Weetebula, Amboina, Manado, Padang, Sibolga, Agats, Jayapura, Manokwari-Sorong, Timika, Pangkal Pinang, Tanjungkarang, Ketapang, Sanggau, Sintang, Banjarmasin, Palangka Raya, Tanjung Selor, Malang, Purwokerto and Surabaya and from the Philippines, namely, the priests from the different parishes in the Archdiocese of Manila, Nueva Segovia, Tuguegarao, San Fernando, Pampanga, Nueva Caceres, Jaro, Capiz, Cebu, Palo, Davao, Cotabato and Cagayan de Oro and the Dioceses of Laoag, Baguio, Cabanatuan, San Jose, Nueva Ecija, Bangued, Bayombong, Ilagan, Batanes, Urdaneta, Alaminos, Tarlac, Balanga, Iba, Malolos, Kalookan, Cubao, Novaliches, Pasig, Antipolo, Paranaque, Imus, San Pablo, Lipa, Lucena, Gumaca, Infanta, Romblon, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, Calapan, Puerto Princesa, Daet, Libmanan, Legaspi, Masbate, Sorsogon, Virac, San Jose de Antique, Bacolod, Kabankalan, San Carlos, Dumaguete, Tagbilaran, Talibon, Maasin, Calbayog, Borongan, Catamaran, Naval, Butuan, Surigao, Tandag, Malaybalay, Digos, Mati, Tagum, Kidapawan, Marbel, Dipolog, Pagadian, Marawi, Iligan, Ipil and Isabela.
El Shaddai members started flocking to the Quirino Grandstand
as early as 6 a.m. on the Saturday of August. Despite the absence of lechon
tables, the mood was made festive with balloons and banners.
Radio sets and loud speakers have been placed in strategic areas on the grounds
up to the Rizal Park.
Traffic on Taft Avenue, Roxas Boulevard and T.M. Kalaw, Padre Burgos Drive,
Quezon Bridge, Jones Bridge and Ayala Bridge was snarled as the El Shaddai members
from the provinces parked their buses and other vehicles on the thoroughfares.
Meanwhile, environmentalists and community leaders around
Quiapo area are calling for a annual “green” celebration of the anniversary of
El Shaddai in August and the anniversary of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide in
October at the same venue.
The El Shaddai leader has also asked every one of his members to donate more funds to the relief and rehabilitation of Visayas and Mindanao.
The El Shaddai leader has also asked every one of his members to donate more funds to the relief and rehabilitation of Visayas and Mindanao.
In Luneta, Velarde delivered a three-hour ''healing message''
at 4 a.m. to the El Shaddai faithful still gathered in the park before dawn
yesterday.
So effective was the President's portrayal of himself as the
underdog and victim in the ongoing debate on Charter change, that Velarde said
he consoled him after Mr. Aquino's speech on Friday.
''I told the President, don't be provoked by those who try to
provoke you,” Velarde, speaking in Pilipino, told the crowd which had grown
during the night, spilling over from Roxas Boulevard into Ermita, extending up
to Maria Orosa Street.
Velarde and Mr. Aquino were having dinner in the VIP Lounge at
the Quirino Grandstand on Friday when the charismatic leader advised tolerance.
Velarde is the President's spiritual adviser since 1984.
He enjoined his followers: “Let us pray for those that oppress
us,” referring both to the President's critics and those who have questioned
the El Shaddai's timing of its annual anniversary celebration to coincide with
the Makati rally.
Velarde's birthday coincides with El Shaddai's anniversary. It
has traditionally been held on the Saturday nearest August 20 since 1985.
Velarde has expressed support for Charter change on the
condition the amendments are limited to the economic provisions.
But Velarde was not about to clash head on with the Catholic
Church, specifically Cardinal Tagle, on the issue of Charter change, the Bangsamoro
Framework Agreement, pork barrel scam and the illegal rice smuggling. Instead, he asked El Shaddai
members to pray for the Cardinal's health, “so he may become stronger.'”
He told his followers: ''There is a time for anger and there
is a time for love.''
A Roman Catholic Charismatic organization, El Shaddai is under
the supervision of the Archdiocese of Manila which Tagle heads.
Velarde, who turned in millions of votes for the President's electoral
bid in 1998, 2004 and 2010, is expected to present Mr. Aquino with the funds
gathered for Visayas and Mindanao as well as to pray for the government's
development initiatives in the south.
El Shaddai gatherings are usually held on Saturday afternoon
through Sunday morning, with praise and worship and a Mass.
