ORGANIZATIONAL SET-UP of El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Fellowship International, Inc.

I. THE SERVANT-LEADER

The Servant-Leader is the spiritual head of the El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Fellowship International, Inc. As such, he is the principal symbol of true discipleship.  His role is to deliver the Good News of Salvation at the Prayer and Healing Rallies and fellowships of the Foundation and to draw up guidelines for its service volunteer workers to follow.  At present, the Servant-Leader of the Foundation is its founder, Bro. Mariano "Mike" Z. Velarde.

II. SPIRITUAL DIRECTORS

The Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement (CCRM) of the Archdiocese of Manila, through its Over-all Spiritual Director, appoints members of the clergy as Spiritual Directors of the Foundation  and keep its  teachings  in line with the doctrines of the Roman Catholic Church. The Spiritual Directors oversee the training and development of the servant-volunteer disciple-preachers and core group members of the different chapters of the Foundation. At present, the spiritual directors of the Foundation are Rev. Fr. Antonio Cecilio T. Pascual, Deputy Minister, Deputy Ministry for Social Services, Archdiocese of Manila; Rev. Fr. Sanny C. de Claro, Parish Priest, Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, Asuncion St., Malate, Manila; and Very Rev. Msgr. Mario Castillo of Diocese of San Pablo. They were duly appointed by Most Rev. Bishop Teodoro C. Bacani Jr., Over-all Spiritual Director, CCRM of Manila.
III. BOARD OF TRUSTEES (BOT)
The Board of Trustees is reponsible for the management of the general affairs of the Foundation.  It has the power to amend the rules and regulations of the Foundation from time to time.  It handles all the business of the Foundation and the acquisition, through purchase or donation, of real or personal properties, materials, rights and privileges, etc. from either private or government sources.  Every year, new Trustees are elected from among the spirit-filled members of the Foundation or appointed by the Servant-Leader or his successor in accordance with the policies and guidelines of the Foundation, as well as contingent rules being issued for this purpose.  At present, the BOT is composed of the following:

1. Sis. Leticia M. Zerda, Chairman
2. Bro. Jose T. Taniajura, President
3. Sis. Brigilda G. Morales-Mendoza, Treasurer
4. Atty. Guia C. Martinez, Secretary
5. Franklin M. Velarde, M.D., Member
6. Reynaldo P. Roberto, Member
7. Bro. Rafael C. delos Reyes, Member

IV. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (EXECOM)
The EXECOM assists the Servant-Leader in the proper guidance and supervision of the Foundation, particularly in the implementation of its policies and guidelines, and in the assignment of servant-volunteer workers in its various ministries. It coordinates and evaluates all the activities, functions of its various ministries, and acting as a clearing-house for their respective needs. It processes and acts upon the programs, personnel, financial and logistical requirements of the Foundation and imposes disciplinary actions on erring servant-volunteer workers. At present, the EXECOM is composed of the following:

1. Dr. Bro. Franklin M. Velarde, M.D., Chairman-Executive Coordinator
2. Bro. Jose T. Taniajura, Vice Chairman and Deputy Executive Coordinator
3. Bro. Adolfo T. Victoria, Member
4. Bro. Reynaldo M. Vargas, Member
5. Bro. Rafael C. delos Reyes, Member
6. Sis. Emma S. Adoremos, Member-Executive Secretary
7. Rev Fr. Antonio Cecilio T. Pascual, Member

V. THE MINISTRIES 
The different ministries of the Foundation created under the EXECOM are the following:

• ADMINISTRATIVE MINISTRY.  This is responsible for the management of the following:

A. PERSONNEL AND MIS GROUP.  It provides the manpower that the Foundation needs; screens and recommends prayer-partners who would like to render voluntary services to the Foundation. Keeps the records of the servant-volunteer workers of the Foundation, oversees their welfare, and evaluates their performance. It manages the Secretarial Support Group, and Close-in Security. It performs the data processing and computerization requirements of the Foundation, particularly in the areas of membership and tithes record-keeping. It handles the Tithes Encoding and ID Sections.
B. SUPPLY AND PROCUREMENT DEPARTMENT.  It handles the purchasing and storage of materials and equipment needed by the Foundation.
C. MEDICAL-DENTAL CLINIC.  It renders free medical-dental services to all members and followers of the Foundation.
D. TECHNICAL AND LOGISTIC GROUP.  It handles the proper use and repair of equipment and materials of the Foundation.  It implements the operations or plans of the Foundation.  It manages the following support groups: Mailing and Transportation (Air, Land and Sea) [Drivers], and Maintenance (Janitors).

FINANCE MINISTRY.  Manages and accounts the funds and assets of the Foundation, including its chapters in the Philippines and abroad, in accordance with the policies and guidelines set by its Board  of Trustee.  It formulates  rules and regulations to ensure that all tithes, love-offerings, and miracle-seed-of-faith-offerings of members and followers of the Foundation are properly accounted for.  It coordinates with external auditors in the preparation of its annual report to the BOT, as well as to the appropriate government agencies in the Philippines and abroad as required by law. It supervises the collection and counting of tithes and love-offerings. It supervises the Accounting, Treasury and Collection, and Internal Audit Departments. It manages the Cashier and Envelope Sorters, and Love-Offerings and Tithes Counters.
EDUCATION, TRAINING AND DEPLOYMENT MINISTRY.  It trains and evaluates character performance of servant-volunteer disciple-preachers, staff and other servant-volunteer workers of the Foundation. It prepares the requirements for the Eucharistic celebrations and worship activities of the Foundation. It supervises the following: Monday to Sunday Morning Holy Mass, and evening fellowships (except Tuesdays) at Makati City, and the Saturday Family Appointment with El Shaddai at Amvel City in Paranaque City. It also handles the pray-over and counselling services of the Foundation. It manages the Disciple-Preachers Deployment and Monitoring; Guidance and Counselling Support Group; and Liturgical and Music Ministry.
SOCIAL SERVICES AND OUTREACH MINISTRY.  It renders Medical-Dental services, free legal consultations, disaster/relief and burial assistance, hospital and jail visitation, and other services to members and followers of the Foundation. It accredits and supervises the needs of the chapters and outreach operations of the Foundation in the Philippines and abroad. It supervises the Livelihood/Credit Cooperative/Social & Legal Assistance Support Group and the National and International Outreach Support Group.
MEDIA MINISTRY.  It directs and supervises the various programs of the Foundation in the spreading of the Good News of Salvation through the following:

A. BROADCAST: RADIO.  The DWXI (1314 kHz) AM Radio Station, with nine kilowatts of power, started airing the Good News of Salvation in 1982. In a survey conducted by the Radio Research Council, Inc., on July 19, 1994, the station, with 15 kilowatts of power, ranked third among the highest-rating AM stations in Metro Manila. This proves that El Shaddai has been increasingly using DWXI as His instrument in reaching out to troubled and otherwise hopeless listeners who find the courage to live by listening to His Word. On the occasion of the 14th anniversary celebration of the El Shaddai DWXI-PPFI at the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila on August 22 to 23, 1998, the station was re-launched with a broadcasting power of 30 kilowatts. At present, the station has studios located at Amorsolo Street, Legaspi Village,  Makati City and the transmitter is located at Noveleta, Cavite and broadcasts from 4:00 a.m. until 12:00 midnight. Soon the station will broadcast on a whole day basis.  The Foundation also airs El Shaddai programs in other radio stations in the Philippines and abroad. DWXI 1314 kHz AM radio station is now heard worldwide including the Live Gawain Video Streaming: http://www.deltabroadcastingsystem.net TELEVISION. Delta Broadcasting System, Inc. (DBS) has also a UHF-TV Broadcast Station which is expected to be launched before the year ended, which its transmitter is located at Barangay San Roque, Emerald Hills, Sumulong Highway, Antipolo City, to reach out over Metro Manila and surrounding areas. That is Channel 35 of Delta Broadcasting System. The Foundation aired its first live TV coverage on April 19, 1992 on Islands TV-13. El Shaddai playback also aired almost all Filipinos abroad over ABS-CBN TFC (The Filipino Channel) every Sunday morning (California and New York Time) since 2003. And on December 8, 2007, Bro. Mike receives an award from TV Maria Foundation, Inc. as TV producer for the program, El Shaddai, the result, this playback will be aired over the Cable and Satellite TV channel, TV Maria which seen on Dream Satellite TV Channel 1, Destiny Cable Channel 94, SkyCable (DigiBox) Channel 160, and other leading Satellite and Cable TV systems nationwide. Since then, its weekly Family Appointment with El Shaddai at Amvel City in Paranaque City and Tuesday fellowship have been aired twice a week on the said TV channel on a delayed telecast basis.  The broadcast schedule is as follows:

• Saturdays : 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
• Sundays : 12:00 m.n. - 2:00 a.m.

This is handled by the Radio and Television Programming and Monitoring.

B. PRINT.  The El Shaddai Miracle Publications (formerly called Liwanag Publications) was initially formed to take charge of a publication in Filipino, the El Shaddai Bagong Liwanag Magazine, containing insights on the Gospel as interpreted by Bro. Mike, as well as testimonies on physical healing deliverance from vices, and the like. The maiden issue came out on August 1, 1986 with 20,000 copies. To date, the magazine has a circulation of 200,000 copies per issue. In addition, a publication in English, the El Shaddai Miracle Newsletter, is now being distributed for free at the rate of 50,000 copies per issue. The Publications has also published several books by Bro. Mike, namely: “How To Win Your Battles All the Time,” “Mga Butil na Gintong Aral ni El Shaddai,” and “Bro. Mike, Bakit?” and the most recent is "With El Shaddai Miracles are Forever". These publications are being given for free to the members and followers of the Foundation worldwide, as well as to other religious communities, government offices, and various sectors of Philippine society. The El Shaddai Miracle Newsletter back issues including the final issue of the News Letter, is the feature: Pentecost 2001 Overnight Celebration at PICC-CCP Grounds. Soon to be uploaded on IPad, Android devices, and on Digital PDF versions.

C. AUDIO AND VIDEO TAPES.  In order to reach out to its more than fifty diocesan centers in the provinces and more than sixty overseas chapters, the Foundation sends to these areas audio and video tapes of its weekly Family Appointment with El Shaddai: Mass and Worship and Healing Rally from 1986 to 2013, Tuesday fellowship and other El Shaddai programs. The Tapes Administration handles the reproduction of those programs in audio and video cassette tapes. Soon to be uploaded in SoundCloud.com and YouTube.com under the account name of "DWXIGawain"

After EDSA, Cory and her presidency (Part 2)

People Power swept Cory Aquino to the presidency, the first woman to occupy the post. The first post-Marcos leader, and the one, Cory herself said, who inherited all the problems the dictatorhsip wrought on the country. Under Marcos the Philippines had been the pariah of the world.

No one really adequately prepares for the presidency and this was true of the housewife who calmly answered the sniping of Marcos – “Cory, isang bala ka lang!” – during the snap elections with “Marcos, isang balota ka lang” in her speech before the Manila Rotarians at the Manila Hotel.

The euphoria of Peaceful People Power died down and the problems were still with us. What the whole world admired in the Filipinos were soon forgotten by the Filipinos themselves.

Cory was keenly aware of this. She pointed out to us in some of our quiet moments in the Malacanang, “People forget easily the freedoms we won and gave back to them. Remember, I never promised instant economic success and solutions to unemployment, more investments, and so on!”

Oftentimes, governing became difficult with grousing among the contending forces in her government – the activists who wanted more drastic changes and the rightists who felt that building up the economy was the top and sole priority.

“People want the best of democracy and the best of a strong leadership… that is not possible. Democracy comes with its flaws and as a fledging democratic nation,we learn to deal with them and perfect them. We cannot go back to a strong-man rule.”

This led her to convene a Constitutional Commission to draft a new post-Marcos Constitution even if this meant giving up some of her presidential powers in the revolutionary government. The sooner the country had a new democratic constitution, the better it would be, she declared.

There were many things to be done, but she prioritized the restoration of freedoms, the institutions of government — the Legislative and Judicial branches of government. And she prepared for clean and peaceful elections.

On hindsight, I suppose people really wanted to see dramatic changes in their lives after EDSA. Democratic space in media and business, the academe, even in the military was lost to the “masa” who began to wonder if the new freedom was worth it.

Cory strove hard to repair the mistrust people felt against the military who, after all, had represented the strong arm of Marcos.

She herself was a victim of military oppression — from Ninoy being jailed for seven years and getting sentenced to death by a military tribunal. She would, on our prodding, recount how she and her daughters suffered indignities like being bodily searched by WACs before they could visit Ninoy in his cell.

Yet, she reached out to the military as soon as she became their Commander-in-Chief, getting her Cabinet ladies and civilian friends to set up a Bigay Puso Foundation with the wives of military officials. She knew how the military and police personnel had served the citizenry faithfully despite the corrupting influence of top politicians during the Marcos years.

In her first speech at the PMA graduation in Baguio as the new Commander-in-Chief, she greeted the new graduates and the alumni with the now famous line, “Welcome home, my soldiers!”

It was her way of getting the message across to them that old wounds were now healed and that she wanted them to trust her to lead them. Her most important first step then, she confessed, was to learn to salute smartly and troop the line of honor guards.

The great majority of the military returned her trust during the many coup attempts against her mounted by the RAM soldiers. The “adventurism” of the RAM set back the economy by many years.

To Cory, who became the Icon of Democracy and the symbol of Peaceful People Power in the world, her legacy was clear – the restoration of our freedoms and institutions and empowerment of the people through opportunities to lift themselves out of poverty through education, livelihood skills, and good governance.

As best as she could, during the coup attempts that almost cost Cory the life of her only son Benigno Simeon Aquino III, now the country’s President, she remained calm and firmly in charge.

I remember asking her after the bloody coup led by then renegade Col. Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan how she intended to serve out her term.

“As President,” she tersely replied.

There were also those who wished that she would step down during the coup attempts and be simply part of a junta which would include the Vice President and top military officials.

“No way,” she replied to the suggestions. “I have a covenant to my people to serve as their duly elected president and I shall do so until the end of my term.”

Which she did and on June 30, 1992, she proudly handed over the reins of government to the next elected president, her candidate, Fidel V. Ramos. It was the first post-Marcos free elections in 26 years, a fruit of the years of struggle for freedom and the peaceful People Power Revolution.

The glorious days for freedom-loving Filipinos may have ended in triumph in 1986, but we continue to reap the rewards of the struggles and sacrifices of the common heroes, the people –the unnamed thousands around the country who caught the spark of courage from the EDSA “troops” who tried to stop tanks and gave up their comfort zones to man the barricades. They are the real heroes of the People Power revolution.

They are, Cory reminded us, the trustees of the freedoms we won back. Today, we may have our differences in the way of remembering and honoring the event that shook the world and that welcomed us back in the community of nations, but we are united in rekindling the spirit of EDSA. Of love of country, our neighbors. And a yearning to keep the flame of freedom ever burning!

And now, as God willed it, her only son who still bears in his body shards of that near-fatal bullet, is leading the country in the post-EDSA era.

The beautiful dream continues.

Editorial: EDSA People Power 28th Anniversary

The nation celebrates the 28th Anniversary f the historic EDSA People Power on February 25, 2014, with the theme “Kapit-Bisig Tungo Sa Pagbangon,” a call to action for all Filipinos to join hands in assisting their country and fellow Filipinos in the rehabilitation efforts from the challenges of the previous year.

Proclamation No. 655 declared February 25, 2014, a nationwide observance and a school holiday to commemorate the culmination of the glorious four days (February 22-25, 1986) in Philippine history when the Filipino people bravely pursued a common cause, that resulted in ushering political and socio-economic reforms. Focal point of celebration is Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), where the historic event transpired. It is here where the EDSA monument and Lady of Peace shrine are found – fitting testimonies to the Filipinos’ indomitable spirit.

The EDSA People Power Commission leads activities that include a film festival, concert, photo exhibit, and interviews with key EDSA personalities. A “Salubungan” workshop was held on January 16-18, 2014, with groups from various parts of the country coming together and celebrating the Filipino spirit of volunteerism and love of country. The “Salubungan,” reenacted each year as part of the celebration, was the transfer of holed-out soldiers in Camp Aguinaldo to join fellow soldiers in nearby Camp Crame to consolidate their forces on second day of EDSA 1, a move witnessed by thousands of people converged at EDSA to protect the troops.

The “heroes of EDSA,” participants in those historic four days, and countless other Filipinos who shared their time, joined rallies, distributed food and drinks to rallyists, recited the rosary, offered flowers, and wooed government soldiers to their side, are remembered today in celebrations nationwide.

The Manila Bulletin, led by its Chairman of the Board of Directors Dr. Emilio T. Yap, President and Publisher Atty. Hermogenes P. Pobre, Executive Vice President Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, Editor-in-Chief Dr. Cris J. Icban Jr., Business Editor Loreto D. Cabañes, Directors, Officers, and Employees congratulate the EDSA People Power Commission headed by its Chairman Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr., and Vice Chairman Jose T. Pardo, its Commissioners and other Officers, for helping keep alive among the people the spirit and historical significance of the EDSA People Power of the Filipino people in our Republic of the Philippines. CONGRATULATIONS, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY AND MABUHAY!

National Newsbits for February 25, 2013

EDSA MASS

Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas will hold a Mass today at the EDSA Shrine in Mandaluyong City to commemorate the 28th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution. This will be the first time that Villegas will lead the celebration as head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines. Villegas officially assumed his post as CBCP president December 2013. In an earlier interview, the protégé of the late Jaime Cardinal Sin said EDSA People Power 1 is not about Sin or former president Corazon Aquino but rather about the freedom loving Filipinos. “EDSA is not Cardinal Sin, it’s not Cory. EDSA is the people. For as long as we have people who love freedom, the EDSA spirit will always be relevant,” he said. The Mass at the EDSA Shrine will be held at 5:30 p.m. (Leslie Ann G. Aquino)

P81-M JACKPOT

Today’s Super Lotto 6/49 draw is expected to offer an estimated P81-million jackpot. The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) said no one hit the winning numbers combination of 12-41-32-08-35-16 for the Super Lotto draw last Sunday that carried a jackpot of P76.76 million. PCSO General Manager Jose Ferdinand M. Rojas II said yesterday the agency projected the Feb. 25 draw to have P81 million for the winner. He said the jackpot will depend on the ticket sales. PCSO’s main lotto games are Grand Lotto 6/55, 6/49, Mega Lotto 6/45, and Lotto 6/42. (Edd K. Usman)

N.Y.C. NOMINEE

The Senate leadership is backing the nomination of United States-educated certified public account-lawyer Hardy Aquende to lead the National Youth Commission (NYC). Senate President Franklin Drilon vouched for Aquende’s capability in leading the commission, previously chaired by Senator Bam Aquino. “Attorney Aquende will admirably perform his duties in the NYC given his very accomplished credentials,” Drilon said, citing that he has a proven track record in public service. Aquende served as Special Prosecutor for the Intensified Run-After Tax Evaders Program of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). He teaches at Aquinas University-College of Law apart from working as Chief Legislation Officer at the Senate. Camarines Sur Rep. Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo and Magdalo partylist Rep. Gary Alejano are also supporting Aquende’s nomination to the NYC. (Charissa M. Luci)

CHINESE AMBASSADOR

The Chinese Embassy in Manila has confirmed the arrival in the country of China’s new ambassador to Manila. According to Hua Zhang, Deputy Chief of Political Section and Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy, Ambassador Zhao Jinhua arrived in the Philippines Sunday to take over the seat vacated by Ambassador Ma Keqing who returned to China after being stationed here for only two years. Prior to being appointed to his new post in Manila, the 48-year-old Chinese diplomat headed China’s embassy in Liberia where he was honored for his dedicated services and instrumentality in the implementation of many investments and developmental projects carried out during his two years and eight months stay in the said country. (Roy C. Mabasa)

Dennis Trillo renews exclusive contract with GMA Network

Multi-awarded dramatic actor and recording artist Dennis Trillo remains a Kapuso after signing another exclusive contract with GMA Network, Inc.

The contract signing was held last week at the Executive Lounge of GMA Network Center and was attended by the top officers of the network including GMA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Felipe L. Gozon, GMA President and Chief Operating Officer Gilberto R. Duavit Jr., GMA Films President Atty. Annette Gozon-Abrogar, GMA Entertainment TV’s Senior Vice President Lilybeth G. Rasonable, GMA First Vice President for Program Support Regie C. Bautista, GMA Vice President for Entertainment TV Marivin T. Arayata, GMA Vice President for Drama Productions Redgie Acuña-Magno, GMA Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara, GMA Assistant Vice President for Corporate Communications Angela Javier-Cruz, GMA Assistant Vice President for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy, Program Managers for ETV Charles Koo and Jocelyn Bautista-Pacleb and Dennis’ manager Popoy Caritativo.




Dennis is happy to renew his contract with GMA-7, which he considers his home for the past 11 years. “Sobrang proud ako na Kapuso pa rin ako. Excited na akong gumawa ng mga bagong shows. Excited na akong magtrabaho ulit. Wala na akong mahihiling pa. Dito sa GMA ako sobrang at home dahil kilala ko na ang mga tao dito mula sa pinakamaliit hanggang sa pinakamalaki. Dito ako sobrang kumportable. Kailanman hindi ko makakalimutan ’yung pagtitiwala na ibinigay nila sa akin. Secured ako sa GMA dahil alam ko na hindi nila ako pababayaan. Hindi ko nga napansin na 11 years na ako dito.”

Dennis started with GMA in 2003, where he was given a variety of TV projects, which showcased his versatility and range as an actor.

At present, Dennis not only dabbles in acting; he has also tried his hand in singing following the success of the album “TomDen” – with fellow Kapuso star Tom Rodriguez, which has now reached Gold record status with over 10,000 units sold in combined digital and CD sales.

• • •

PRIME Foundation Awards Outstanding Broadcasters

The Pete Roa Integrated Media Endeavors (PRIME) Foundation, Inc. awarded broadcasters Cheche Lazaro, Winnie Monsod and Pia Hontiveros for having consistently maintained high standards in the service of the Filipino.

The awarding was held last Feb. 8 at the Escaler Hall, Ateneo de Manila University Katipunan Rd., Q.C.

Highlight of the event was the awarding of the priceless trophies created by world-class sculptor Ramon G. Orlina to Cheche, Winnie and Pia by Joey Roa, Pete’s son, together with PRIME Board Members.

Prior to the awarding, the PRIME awardees gave a short talk on “Broadcast Media as a Purveyor of Change.”

Keynote speaker Rev. Fr. Nono Alfonso, S.J., Executive Director of Jesuit Communications (JESCOM) also gave his insight on media stating “we must inspire, speak the truth, and promote neighborly dialogues.”

Dr. Severino Sarmenta, a professor from Ateneo’s Department of Communication, was the lifeblood of the evening’s program.

The PRIME AWARDS was conferred for the first time by PRIME Foundation’s Board of Trustees composed of Boots Anson-Roa, widow of Pete; film producer and industry leader Marichu Vera Perez Maceda; columnist Nestor Torre; Dr. Bong Aquino, neurologist at Capitol Medical City; Atty. Raffy Evangelista; publisher and editor-in-chief Fred Dela Rosa; singer-songwriter Jose Mari Chan; columnist Bibsy Carballo; and Eddie Roa, former managing director at AC Nielsen, youngest brother of Pete.

• • •

Beauty Pageant With A Difference

To promote and honor Filipino tradition and culture, Hotel Sogo launched the Mr. and Ms. Sogo Hotel Ambassadors beauty pageant.

It was aimed at highlighting traditional Filipino traits of honesty, good character, talent, poise, intellect, leadership and good judgment.

A total of six candidates were qualified from auditions held nationwide.

The candidates who joined the grand finals and coronation were Honeylette Abiad (Las Piñas City), Patria Lorimme (Marikina City), Andrea Fatima Infante (Makati City), Angelica Oba (San Pablo, Laguna), Bernadette Melissa (Sta. Rosa, Laguna), Avi Karlyn Pascual (Manila), Zandra Ramos (Makati City), Glaiza Sarmiento (Makati City), Paul John Andasan (Marikina City), Paul Andrew Belmonte (Marikina City), Rendon Labador (San Jose del Monte, Bulacan), Angelo Erico Gabriel (Olongapo City), Reamark Reduccion (Marikina City) and Vince Vargas (Malabon City).

The winners, chosen by a board of judges of known competence and integrity were: Mr. and Ms. Sogo, Vince Vargas and Glyza Sarmiento; first runner-up, Paul Andrew Belmonte and Sandra Ramos; second runner-up, Rendon Labador and Abi Karlyn Pascual; and third runner-up Reamark Reduccion and Bernadette Melissa Paez.

Special awards: Gandang Ricky Reyes – Abi Pascual; Gwapong Ricky Reyes – Paul Andrew Belmonte; Mr. Congeniality – Paul Andrew Belmonte; and Ms. Photogenic – Bernadette Paez.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings, Feb. 25, go to Ms. Maricel Soriano, Pitoy Moreno, director Vittorio Romero, Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan, Tessie Chua, Yolly Mendoza, Patsy Henson, Tessie San Juan, Eric Antonio, Victorio Yuzon, Ma. Clara Gana, Evelyn Batalla and Larry Lagulay of New York, Marta Geraldine Baja, Ma. Teresa Rapadas Pineda, Ariel de Lima, Rosie Frivaldo, Myrna Fuentes and Manila Bulletin’s Photo Editor Angelo “Anjo” T. Perez…

Mixed Photos

1.74L sq mts of land to be used for Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ metro

The construction of the 33.5km underground metro line between Colaba–Bandra–SEEPZ will result in 1,74,632 square meters of land (government and private plots, including open spaces) being used for the corridor permanently. Additionally 19,033 sq mts will be used temporarily, only during the construction phase.

On February 13, top officials from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation had held a meeting with their team to clear issues that may arise in future and even for mutual cooperation during the construction phase.

In all, 27 stations are proposed along the route. As per the Detailed Project Report prepared by engineering consultancy firm RITES and submitted back in November 2011 to the MMRDA, a total of 47,226 sq mts will be taken away permanently to have entry, exit, escalator, water tank, fuel tank, ventilation shaft, among other things.

Above that, later the development authority zeroed in on 30 acres of Aarey Milk Colony to have a car depot for the third metro corridor.

Additionally, there will be a need to have sub-station at regular intervals to keep the metro trains moving, for which three locations have been mentioned in the report — Cuffe Parade, Worli and Bandra. In all 6,000 sq mts will be permanently used.

The authorities intend to build five of the stations — Cuffe Parade, Bandra, Kalina, MIDC and SEEPZ stations — using the cut-and-cover method of construction. As the term suggests, the ground will be dug and entire station will be constructed. In the end, the top will be covered so that usual activities can be carried out at grade level.

A look of the report states that mangroves at Bandra, gardens, playgrounds, religious shrines including a portion of Parsi Temple at Kalbadevi, private residential and commercial spaces, fuel stations, race course, open area inside the university's campus, police colony at MIDC, etc will have to make way to resolve commuting woes for Mumbaikars.

An underground metro rail is always a preferred option as compared to elevated is a metropolis like Mumbai, where there are space constraints. The cost for this metro corridor has been estimated at Rs23,136 crore, and part of the funding will be through a loan from Japanese International Co-operation Agency.

An MMRDA official informed, "The total area mentioned in the report prepared by RITES mentions the larger picture. There is a possibility of variations in the land needed as another study is underway for the project.