Mansyon Isang Musikal

A mansyon-ful of memories

Dot Ramos Balasbas-Gancayco (The Philippine Star) - July 10, 2018 - 12:00am 

MANILA Philippines — I spent my early childhood with my maternal grandmother in an antique house that was transported part by part from Ilocos to Kamuning, Quezon City. I could still picture the grand, chocolate-colored furniture dotted with crocheted doilies my grandma herself painstakingly made; hear the creaking sounds of the old wooden stairs; feel the smooth silky lines of the narra bannisters; and experience the blast of cold air as my lola opens the shell windows by the ornately-grilled window panes. Memories of living in our heritage house came flooding my mind like never before as I watched the one-night showing of Mansyon — an exquisite original Filipino musical with a golden cast, a lovely story, beautiful music and valuable lessons on promoting and preserving our heritage and culture as Filipinos. 

Aptly shown at the “deteriorating-but-needs-to-be-preserved” Abelardo Hall in my alma mater, the University of the Philippines, the story of Mansyon, Isang Musikal by Leon Mayo revolves around five central characters: the aging grandfather who was painfully dogged by what he should and could do with the much-treasured-but-about-to-be-foreclosed ancestral mansion which he wanted to pass on to his granddaughter; the young balikbayan granddaughter who desired an independent life in the US and was torn between following her heart and obeying her grandfather who insisted that she marry the son of a rich businessman to solve the family’s financial woes and eventually enable them to keep the family mansion; the old, trusted priest, who, because of his close ties with the family, was the perfect spiritual counselor for the clashing lolo and apo; the loyal family maid, who by a sudden twist of events, is revealed as an illegitimate heir; and the granddaughter’s boyfriend who, in spite of feeling unwelcome at first, stuck it out with her and provided the solution to the focal issue — what to do with the “much-loved-but-debt-ridden” ancestral house in the midst of a modernizing community that wanted to tear it down. 

Other supporting but vital characters were the rich businessman who wooed the lolo and apo for their strategically-located properties; his son who would have been the ideal bait to merge the two families; the two household helps who turned up to be having an amorous affair; and the ancestors’ ghosts who each had his/her own story to tell. 

Although there were many technical constraints, the actors were all extremely good and well-prepared for a one-night show. I did not expect the elaborate choreography, the meticulously-crafted sets, nor the remarkable musical arrangements. The use of ancient portraits coming to life was engaging as a technique for making the audience know the history of the family and effective as a tool for reinforcing and understanding the grandfather’s resolve to preserve the ancestral home. 

Ina Salonga, who played the granddaughter, awed me with her natural acting and pure crystal voice. She had fantastic chemistry with both her balikbayan boyfriend (played by Kevin Posadas whose fake American accent I loved) and the swaggering businessman-suitor (performed by Vien Allen King whose haughtiness and exaggerated narcissism the audience found endearing). These two men were my personal favorites because of their remarkable stage presence and impressive comedic acting. The apo’s mother played by Christine Joy Mangahis was enigmatic on stage. My eyes followed her all those very few times that her ghost popped out of the picture frame. The lolo (Brylle Mondejar) and the priest (Greg de Leon) acted well their difficult parts. Being the loyal maid was perfect for Melanie Dujunco. I only wish she was given more time to react to the life-altering and earth-shaking piece of news that she got near the end. 

The songs were beautiful and it is a wonder how such delightful music could have come out of the composer/writer Leon, who is neither a professional writer nor a trained musician, but a practicing architect. Kudos to musical director Lawrence Jatayna who, with his marvelous voice, I believe, should also be a member of the cast. Mansyon, after all, is a musical that requires excellent singers and not just good actors. 

Like many other heritage houses, my Lola’s house was demolished to give way to a modern building. Had we seen the MANSYON musicale then I’m quite sure that our family would have realized the heritage significance of the house which contained not only precious memories but history and culture as well. I for one would have fought tooth and nail to preserve it. 

It is this learning experience, educational value and historical ride from the true-to-life story of Mr. Mayo plus the excellent stage direction (by Ruth Alferez), outstanding cast, sets, music and choreography that I pray there will be a repeat, or better yet, a much longer run. A movie? Why not? All in all, I have to give this musicale a rating of 5 stars.

The Author Dot Gancayco (fourth from right) with her fellow officers in the Association of Congressional Chiefs of Staff. From left: Tuts Corral, Marvin Segura, Noreen Gonzaga and husband Lloyd Gonzaga, Eric Silva, Patrixia Santos, Mon Peralta and Kelly Savellano. The building in the background is known variously as the ‘Taj Mahal of Talisay,’ ‘Taj Mahal of Negros’ and ‘Taj Mahal of the Philippines’ . The Ruins is the remains of the ancestral home mansion of the family of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson and Maria Braga Lacson. 


Read more at https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2018/07/10/1832027/mansyon-ful-memories#8hIDu8U2K9DCm5sy.99

Mansyon Isang Musikal

Hello Batchmates,
Last March 18, the play "Mansyon Isang Musikal" was premiered in Abelardo Hall UP Diliman.  Some of our Batchmates came to see it.  Apart from the positive reviews on it after the show, here below is a recent review in a mainstream daily.

The play is about the appreciation and preservation of the built heritage of the country.  As you know, heritage conservation is something that I personally and professionally advocate.  For many of us with families who have ancestral houses and legacy to promote, it is a good show to watch.  

Plans are currently afoot for a rerun of the show in September.  I will let you know.
Regards,
Onie Mayo

‘Mansyon,’ entertainment with a 
mission

By: Nestor Cuartero 
Published May 18, 2018, 12:05 AM 

JUST A THOUGHT: ‘Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.’ – Franz Kafka

‘Mansyon’ production team,cast and crew


MUSICAL ON PRESERVING HERITAGE HOMES: Little did we know that quietly, unheralded, a musical play that promotes preservation of Filipino culture through the restoration of colonial Filipino homes is playing somewhere, some place near. 

The musical is as timely as news of heritage homes and buildings being torn down to give way to more malls and other places of commerce continue to hog headlines. 

In recent times, we have seen the demolition of the old Jai Alai building on Taft Avenue (now a supermarket), the Army Navy Club at Rizal Park (now a hotel), to name just two. Those were landmark structures known for their period architectural design and history. 

On the other hand, “Mansyon” is just as relevant in the light of the million-peso restoration currently being done at the Metropolitan Theater on Liwasang Bonifacio, central Manila. A positive development, for a change. 

Theater and arts lovers eagerly await the Met’s reopening, said to be this year. How nice if “Mansyon,” whose theme the Met could easily identify with, could also play at the Met in the near future. 

• • •

CONFLICT BETWEEN THE OLD AND THE NEW: A reader, Coratec Jimenez, has informed us about “Mansyon,” an original Pinoy musical about a conflict between the owner of an ancestral home and his balikbayan granddaughter, who has absolutely no affinity with the decaying mansion. 

“Mansyon” opened at the UP Abelardo Hall last March 18 in support of Bolboc Heritage Group of San Juan, Batangas. San Juan town itself has several heritage homes that face either restoration or destruction, depending on the need or circumstance. 

Leon M. Mayo is credited for its story, music and lyrics. An architect by profession, he is an advocate of heritage conservation. 

Others in “Mansyon’s” production credits include Ruth Alferez (director), Lawrence Jatayna (musical director), Michael Bulaong (arranger), and John Quintana (scriptwriter). 

Playing key roles were Brylle Mondejar, Ina Salonga, Greg de Leon, Melanie Dujunco, Christine Joy Mangahis, Kevin Posadas, and Kevin Alen King. Good to hear that Brylle, who started as a talented teen singer on “That’s Entertainment,” has transformed as a theater actor. 

• • •

PURE ENTERTAINMENT: “Mansyon: Isang Musikal,” says Coratec, is a refreshing original Pinoy musical play that anyone who appreciates a song-and-dance drama presentation will definitely enjoy watching. 

It has no artsy-fartsy, highfalutin pretentions of being intellectually heavy or philosophically deep. “Mansyon” is pure, uninterrupted entertainment with a thought-provoking, nationalistic, cultural theme. 

The play’s central message is to promote preservation of Filipino culture and heritage through the restoration of colonial Filipino homes. Many of these were built way back during Spanish times. 

Coratec writes that for her, the procession scene in Act 1 had tremendous audience impact. 

She says, “The procession scene led by the priest started at center stage, went down and proceeded to the back, turned and passed through the side aisle then exited through the side door, all the while singing and chanting in their well-blended heavenly voices, lighting up the dark with their candles and evoking a spine-tingling, solemn, awesome atmosphere.’’ 

“Mansyon” is available for staging everywhere. Its producers can be reached through leonmayo@gmail.com and evmayo@hotmail.com.

Batch63 May 2018 Celebrants

It is the ides of May and the day of celebration for Batch63 guys born in and around the month of May. The celebrants are: Joey Angeles (May 30), Jack Arellano (May 19), Erni Cuyegkeng (April 21), Quito Moras (May 9), Polding Arnaiz (May 10), and Ray Suplido (May 13).

The 'usual' guests were there. The 'usual' is actually of two types: Type 1 are those who mainly come when there is Grand Kapihan (hence breakfast is free).  The Type 1 guys who came are: Francis Horn, Joe Assad, Joey Ingles, Vic Corpus, Lito Domantay, Steve Hontiveros, Aderito Yuhuico, Vince Misa and Boy Carlos.  The Type 2 guys are the regulars or those who come for the Monday-Thursday Kapihan every week (KKB ito). The Type 2 guys who came are: Ed Lim, Onie Mayo, and Gabby Valdez. Eboy Cosme and Bambi Goco may be considered Type 2 as well since they join the Monday Kapihan from time to time.

Joey Ingles brought a box full of sample liniment packets for the whole batch. The all cure liniment is made out of natural ingredient and is called a Brain Boost Stress Reliever. Could this term be an oxymoron? Isn't it so that the more one uses his brain, the more stress he has?  After the breakfast the group went their separate ways except for about 6 guys who stayed on.  They stayed to watch game 2 of the Celtics and Cavaliers on public TV.

Regards and til next time.
Onie Mayo

February 2018 Celebration

Hello Batchmates!

After a long pause, Batch63 got together again in February. It is the joint birthday celebration of: 1) Boy Nazareno, 2) Joe Assad, 3) Joey Ingles; 4) Alex Ledesma, 5) Mon Arnaiz, 6) Ed Lim and 7) Arthur Antonino.  The affair was held at Italliani's in Greenbelt 2 Makati.  

The Batch63 guys who availed of the sumptuous breakfast - a treat from the celebrants -  were: Joey Angeles, Joey Estagle, Onie Mayo, Jackie Arellano, Joey Zamora (true balikbayan), Gary Salcedo, Gabby Valdes, Francis Horn, Polding Arnaiz, Manolo Relova, Quito Moras, Mon Zaragoza, Ernie Cuyegkeng, Eboy Cosme, Boy Carlos, and of course, the Vince Misa. Vince as we know is the tireless organizer of the Grand Kapihan.  

There were other guests in addition to the Batch63 guys. The guests were: Boy Cantada, Bill Gamboa, Carolyn Solis and Mary Josephine Jane Blanco. The macho guys were DLS alum themselves.  The cute ladies are the marketing assistants of Rasputin, ..er . . Joey Ingles. Seemingly still at it with his exotic liniment business, Joey generously handed out complimentary Deep-Sea Manganese oil samples to the Batch. This oil is supposed to give you youthful skin, so for those who wish to turn back the clock, see Joey!

As many know by now, there is an original play I'm producing.   It is entitled Mansyon, Isang Musikal which will have its playdate very soon.  During the breakfast, there was inspiring support for the play from the Kapihan group. (I sent out the promo materials of the play to the Batch a few days ago). In a show of DLSC camaraderie, the motley Batch63 Monday Kapihan group acquired tickets on the spot. For the record, Boy Nazareno came early and was first to acquire a couple of tickets. The  Monday Kapihan guys promised to come to the 7PM main show (with their better halves) as a group.

Especially for those who enjoy Broadway-type modern musicals, and those who appreciate history, tradition and family, I know you will enjoy this show. The playdate is on a Sunday and it should be easy driving to UP Diliman where parking is not a hassle. Below is a show poster for the details of the show.  

As usual, until we meet again and Animo!

Best to all,
Onie Mayo

Grand Kapihan / 25 October 2017

25 October 2017

It was a good crowd that gathered this Wednesday at Italiannis Resto. The exceptionally long table set up by the Italianni waiters was fully occupied.  The occasion was the celebration of the October birthdays of 5 guys. The birthday boys (who treated Batch63) were: Joey Estagle; Francis Horn; Lito Domantay; Vic Corpus, Aderito Yuhuico; and Boy Carlos. 

The conversation going around was earnest despite being diversified and funny.  At least within hearing distance from where I happen to sit, the topics ranged from: Metro Sexual stuff (hair transplant, eyebrow tattoo, eye bag removal, etc.); latent passions (wind turbine machine invention); livelihood endeavor (vials of cure-all elixirs); hobbies (ballroom dancing and . . girls?); and projects (business and . . girls?). Leave it to Batch63 bravura for denying the limitations of aging!

Batch63 guys who attended the affair were: Jackie A; Eboy C; Joey (Baby) A; Ed L; Lito Q; Gabby V; Onie M; Bambi G; Joe A; Quito M; Ernie C; Steve H; Mandy I; Richard S; Polding A; Ex-Judge Manny Laurea (a first timer!); Joey I; Boy (Buddy) P; and Vince M. Thanks to Vince Misa for indefatigably organizing the Grand Kapihan and providing me with the list of attendees everytime.

A guest was "Big" Boy Cantada - DLSC Commerce Batch67 - who is a regular at Italiannis. Boy C is known to most of the Batch63 Italiani regulars.  Just before I had to leave the event at 10:30AM, I understand that Gary S. just called.  Gary arrived from the USA and he is at the airport baggage area.  He said he is going directly to the Kapihan and if people can wait for him. (I guess that will have to be for lunch!) On the other hand, it is spirit like this that keeps the Batch63 Kapihan so alive.  Welcome back Gary.

Regards to all,
Onie Mayo

Bert Saenz, Qunitessential CB

Bert is known for his body-builder physique and quiet mien. Tall, dark (white?) and handsome up to the end, Bert is Batch63's quintessential CB. You will ask "what is CB?" Well, it's my lexicon for an impression that's a toss up between a Rhinestone Cowboy and a Conyo boy of Batch63. 

Bert is an outdoor man and fond of horses. With his denim pants and folded shirt sleeves, he is John Wayne Philippine style. In the city, he trades his horse for a motorcycle,. Having completed the "Ironman" circuit challenge more than once, he has shown his propensity with the racing bike and he is Peter Fonda naman. 

And Conyo boy? As you know, members of Batch63 are ethnically grouped into the Spanish, Chinese and the Pinoys. (There are some people though like Jackie and Steve who are confused over their classification). Those who speak Spanish like Bert are considered as Conyoboys. With traces of caucasian ancestry, Conyoboys grew up thinking Hollywood more than most.  For instance, one could be James Dean (Freddie Muniz), Or Elvis Presley (Tonichi Grey).  Or Marlon Brando (Doug Marcaida?).   with extended sideburns, cantilevered pompadour and put-on brooding looks, they seriously look the part!  Batch63's Conyoboys who shamelessly indulge in the good life (wine, women, song and cigarettes?) definitely include Bert Saenz.

It was fun while it lasted. Bert is a good man who has kind words for everyone and who supported Batch63 passionately.  Bert and I worked together on the 'Story of Us' book project of the batch (one year in the making) where Bert proved that he is one of the most reliable, fairest and honest man around. He is a good husband to Oying and who loves his children dearly. Thanks for all the shared experiences and the memories, my friend.

 Hasta la vista, amigo. 

Onimayo

Check out more photos.

Grand Kapihan at Italiannis / December 7, 2016

As usual, the pretty servers at Italliani's gave a performance for the birthday boys.  The details of the attendance are provided below by Grand Kapihan Guru Vince Misa.  

The photographers of the Batch did not come so please bear with my low tech photo effort.  

Onimayo

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Dec 7, 2016 
1. Lito Quiogue
2. Ed Lim
3. Joe Assad
4. Eboy Cosme

Dec 10, 2016 
6. Polding Arnaiz
7. Jackie Arellano
8. Manolo Relova
9. Joey Angeles
10. Oni Mayo
11. Steve Hontiveros
12. Ernest Cuyegkeng
13. Boy Carlos
14. Joey Ingles
15. Gabby Valdes
16. Boy Palanca
17. Bambi Goco
18. Mon Zaragosa
19. Vince Misa

Inspirit
1. Jimmie Gonzales - Dec 3
2. Stephen Ty - Dec 11


Guests 
1. Boy Cantada
2. Flor Gapas

Grand Kapihan at Italiannis / November 9, 2016

The November birthday celebrants are all smiles in the photo above.  The Batch63 guys present at the party are listed below; the celebrants are those  names with dates immediately after their names.  As you can see Polding has no business posing with the celebrants.

1. Gabby Valdes - Nov 7
2. Joey Estagle
3. Ed Lim
4. Vic Corpus
5. Gary Salcedo
6. Polding Arnaiz
7. Jimmy Estrella - Nov 26
8. Bambi Goco - Nov 15
9. Ed Oleta
10. Tony Estonina
11. Oni Mayo
12. Francis Horn
13. Arthur Antonino
14. Jackie Arellano
15. Eboy Cosme
16. Steve Hontiveros - Nov 21
17. Boy Carlos
18. Vince Misa
19.  Boy Palanca


Those who contributed to the party but did not attend were:

1. Gem Yabut - Nov 14
2. Douglas Marcaida


It was good to see Arthur Antonino hale and healthy again.  A guest who attended the birthday party was Boy Cantada (College 67).  Most of the photos were taken by Joey Estagle.  Of course, the whole affair was organized by the grand breakfast MAIN MAN . .  Vince Misa.

Check out more photos
by clicking link below

Grand Kapihan at Italiannis / October 5, 2016

The celebrants present were:  Boy Carlos; Francis Horn; Aderito Yujuico; Vic Corpus; Joey Estagle; Lito Domantay.  

Other celebrants not present are:  Manolo Relova and Mari Vargas.

The Batch 63 guys who attended were:  Boy Nazareno, Bambi Goco, Joey Angeles, Tito Lucero, Ed Lim, Onie Mayo, Gabby Valdes, Noli Perez, Benny Ang, Polding Arnaiz, Jackie Arellano, Tony Estonina, Ed Oleta, Steve Hontiveros, Boy Palanca, Quito Moras, Eboy Cosme.

Other guests were:  Boy Cantada (DLSC 67), Denis Lucero (son of Tito) and Flor Palad (widow of Wally).

Photos courtesy of:  Joey Estagle

Check out photos in close up
by clicking link below.

Grand Kapihan at Italiannis

Pamela's Debut

Per Gabby, the affair last Sunday was 'Pamela's Debut'. Actually it's an advance birthday get-together for Pam as well as a soft, soft opening for AMINSANA - Pam's new event venue project. AMINSANA's design layout and landscaping plan is almost a split image of Gabby's other fabulous hideaway located in Tagaytay. According to Gabby he prefers to keep that first building private. Naturally! 

AMINSANA is located in Amadeo Cavite, a town with Tagaytay's cool climate. The lunch party guests consisted of Pam's Panlilio brood (one of her siblings is her partner in this venture), Pam's St. Theresa classmates and other friends of the family. The food was sumptuous and presented in typical Pam style - continental, gourmet pinoy and lots of healthy greens! The fruity ice cream desert was irresistible. When I asked the server whether it was the famous Selecta brand, he glared at me and said: Sir, this is home made! 

Batch63's small Monday Kapihan group attended the affair. Oni and Bili arrived around noon and thought they were late for the event. As it turned out Manolo and Coco, Lito and Nene and the trio of Polding, son Anton and Ed Lim arrived much later. The bunch actually arrived earlier in Tagaytay but instead of going straight to the venue, they impulsively just had to 'sip coffee' first in other known places in Tagaytay. 

With their wives there, Batch63 was untypically well-behaved. Conversation with the other guests involved politics, old times and economic matters and was a welcome change from Batch63's inane and capricious Kapihan conversations.. After everything, the drive back to Manila started at around 4PM. Compared to the trip going to Amadeo, it was a longer trip back. Late afternoon is the time when all the Tagaytay vacationeers for the weekend head back to the salt mines in Manila. 

It's all worth it though. In behalf of Batch63 Italiani's Kapihan group, advance happy birthday, dear Pam and thanks Gabby for another successful party. Sa mauulit. May your AMINSANA project be successful!  

Onimayo

See slide show for more photos.

Manolo Cristobal RIP

Manolo Cristobal is a Batch63 original. We knew him well from grade school. A few days ago, he succumbed to pneumonia. He is interred in the Perpetual Help University chapel and will be buried on Wednesday. He is survived by his wife and 5 daughters. The cute little girl in the photo is Ana, Manolo's youngest. 

Ed Oleta and wife Chit are neighbors to Manolo in the residential area of the large Perpetual Help University complex in Binan Laguna. They live there since Manolo and Chit's family own the university (with its many branches particularly in South Luzon). Ed who is battling the big C himself was surprised about what happened to Manolo. Clearly, August is not a good month for Ed and Manolo. Ed himself also had pneumonia at the same time as Manolo. But he was able to recover. Manolo did not. 

Admittedly, Manolo Cristobal is more of a loner and was not regular in attending Batch63 affairs. But the times that he did, he was a Batch63 jolly good fellow who appreciated the Batch's repetitive jokes. Goodbye friend. We will miss you and think of you. Condolence to the Cristobal family. 

Onimayo

See slide show for more photos.

Supporting the Team

They did it again. On a Wednesday afternoon, Six Batch63 guys headed for the Flying V Arena in San Juan to cheer for DLSU's Lady Spikers (matched up that day against the strong NU volleyball team). 

The guys actually met at the Grand Kapihan event in Italliani's earlier. After only a few hours break, four of the guys regrouped in Makati at 2PM so that they can go together to the Arena. The guys were Gabby Valdes, Manolo Relova, Oni Mayo and adopted Batch63 member Raffy Yupangco. The other Batch63 guys who went directly to the Arena were Steve Hontiveros and Ed Lim. 

As before the group had patron seats right behind the media panel and the players bench. The match was exciting and which had the group on the edge of their seats many times. NU's statuesque star is national player Jaja Santiago (6-4?) who led NU's fightback in the second set of the match. In the end, the Lady Spikers were too consistent and who prevailed in 4 sets. 

The crowd was full of energy and was mostly a La Salle crowd, (See Video). A three year old chubby tot attired in green T-shirt in the crowd was passionately shouting her lungs out. (See video).  She drew laughter from all those nearby as she shrieked "Ate Ara! Ate Ara!" every time DLSU star Ara Galang figured in the scene. Soon, even Manny R was heard yelling vigorously "Ate Ara, Ate Ara!" 

After the match, the four guys from Makati were so hungry that they decided to treat themselves to Chinese at the Fort. At the gourmet Crystal Jade restaurant, the guys started off their dinner with the popular Siao Long Pao (dimsum with integral soup). For the main orders, Raffy's suggested his tried and tested formula:  a combination of 3 viand types; a vegetable dish; a soup bowl; and dessert.  This combination is para hindi daw bitin. That seems to work. 

As usual - before leaving the table - the guys subjected the maitre d to her choice of politico for the coming polls. This time it was Bongbong that the lady likes. Another day, another interaction with good friends;  another menu, another set of corny jokes; another venue, another place for wishful thinking;  (By wishful thinking, please observe the attached photos - did you notice that there are more photos of sweet young things than the match action itself?)  Life is full and good. 

Hasta, 

Onimayo

Click link below for the photo album of the event.  The other two are the videos as mentioned above.

Please click the link for more photos.

http://s1222.photobucket.com/user/leonmayo1/slideshow/Supporting%20the%20Team

At the Games

The Monday Kapihan group had been planning it for more than a week now. Finally, it culminated in last Saturday's trip to MOA (Mall of Asia) for the group. It was the UAAP ladies volleyball game between DLSU and UE. 

Gabby spearheaded the outing by acquiring 10 patron tickets to the game (c/o Ed Lim). The guys who came wore Green attire and were Gabby, Gary, Polding, Manny R, Raffy Y and Onie. At the MOA stadium, Boy Charles, Steve and Ed L joined the group. A surprise Batch63 guy who was at the stadium was Joey Campos. Joey was however wearing blue. As we know Joey transferred to Ateneo for College. (Joey actually came for the next game which was Ateneo vs. Adamson.) 

For most of the guys, it was their first time to either watch a DLSU ladies volleyball game or even going to MOA. The day started off for the group with a lunch at Manila Polo's Last Chukker resto. From there, they proceeded to the stadium at MOA. the guys were seated at courtside where they had a good view of all the long-legged Volleybelles and the attractive TV newscasters. 

During the game, Polding, Boy and Gary spent their energy and time waving and banging inflatable pom poms (distributed by the La Salle side) at every game point. La Salle won in straight sets which is what Batch63 wanted to see. (It didn't matter that UE is the cellar dweller among the teams). 

After the game, the Batch63 guys went for a brief stroll around MOA. And then it was merienda time again at a branch of Cafe Adriatico there. Overall, it was a fulfilling day specially with the presence of the Batch63 wits. From Manny, we learned that if you want to regrow diminishing hair, go and get chemotherapy; from Boy, we learned that Centrum multi-vitamins (the new kind in the USA) make a good sexual stimulant; from Onie we learned that if you want some kind of equity in the home, have a den TV and remote control alternative to what your better half dominates now; from the waitresses at Cafe Adriatico, we understand that Duterte will make a good president for change. 

Then it was dusk and the Batch was low batt from all the excitement. They will need to recharge so that they can come to the Monday Kapihan at Italliani's again on Monday. Once more, thanks to Gabby for the tickets; to Gary for the ride; to Raffy for the chicheria; and to everyone for the good company. 

For those who miss this fun trip, I recommend that you regualrly join the Monday Kapihan so that you will be abreast of developments next time. 

Hasta. 

Onimayo


See slide show for more photos.

Grand Kapihan @ Greenbelt Makati

Manila Polo’s Cameron Forbes – the traditional venue for Batch63’s Grand Kapihan - is closed for renovation. Hence, the January Kapihan was forced to look for an alternate place. The new venue selected was Italianni’s in Greenbelt 2. 

A few months ago, a hardy group of Batch63 guys discovered Italianni’s and have been regularly patronizing the resto since. Aside from the good breakfast menu, Italianni’s offers a special promotional discount (as much as 60%) every Monday. The restaurant’s refreshing, ever smiling young waitresses is another incentive for the Batch's "Distinguished Old Men" and of course another matter altogether. 

The January birthday boys who hosted the breakfast celebration for Batch63 were: Tony Estonina, Ed Oleta, Mandy Ilustre and Onie Mayo. There was good turn out at the breakfast - check out the Grand Kapihan attendees in the slide show below. Interesting sidelights during the event include Quito’s suddenly blackened hair (whatever’s left of it). This vanity was reportedly inspired by a '30 something' whom Quito was pressured to admit he knew. Another sight was Joey Ingles who came with a '20 something' to help him distribute his sample products. We heard that bachelor Joey’s elixir business is doing well and he now has several nubile female sales person employees. 

Expect the disrespectful Batch63 to indulge in macabre humor. Everyone was amused at the ensuing conversation between Ed Oleta, Manny Relova and Gabby Valdes. Ed started it by saying that his birthday is not only this one time this month but is actually everyday. Ed is in remission for Stage 4 Big C and so he declared that everyday is actually a new leash on life for him.

Listening to Ed, the combative Manny R was not to be outdone. He said that Ed does not have monopoly of the Stage 4 Big C syndrome. (As we know Manny goes twice a year to San Francisco for his regular treatment). Manny would not stop at that.  He suddenly turned on a hapless Gabby sitting across him at the table. He said that despite having everything in life, Gabby does not have what he has - the Big C! In the Batch’s skewed way of thinking, Stage 4 Big C syndrome has become a matter of bragging rights! 

Again, thanks to Joey Estagle for the photos in this Blog. Until the next Grand Kapihan then in March (which will likely be in Polo Club once again) let’s await Vince Misa’s usual notice. 

Bye bye. 

Onimayo 

PSst: Those who enjoyed at Italianni’s, you are invited to join the Batch63 Italianni’s Kapihan group . This small group who discusses and solves the problems of the world every Monday morning is usually composed of Poldy Arnaiz, Manny Relova, Ed Salcedo, Lito Quiogue, Jackie Arellano, Gabby Valdes, Ed Lim, Onie Mayo and Raffy Yupangco.

See slide show for more photos.

Grand Kapihan December 2015 Birthday Boys

Vince Misa's Grand Kapihan extravaganza lives on. Last Wednesday, the Grand K was for the December birthday celebrants. Of several celebrants identified by Vince, only Jimmy Gonzales and Eboy Cosme made it to the event. Despite the typhoon notification by Government that day, a good number of Batch63 guys attended the festivity. These were: [Kneeling] Tony, Joey Estagle, Gary, Vic Corpus, Jackie, Mandy; [stranding center] Bro. Ray, Eboy, Ed Lim,  Flor, Jimmie; [standing left], Gabby, George, Quito, Joey Ingles, Manolo Relova.; [standing right] Francis, Ed Oleta, Onie, Vince. Joey Angeles was present too but had to leave early.  

A special feature of the party at Polo Club was the presence of Flor, Wally de Leon's widow. About two weeks before Wally passed away (from heart failure), the Batch had taken up a collection for Wally's prospective medical expenses. When Wally died, Flor felt that she needed to address the group on two matters: 1) she wanted to thank the Batch for the generous financial support; and 2) she wanted to explain where the funds were used (for the wake and crypt expenses). Flor's impassioned declaration was received well by the usually stoic Batch63. To Flor thus, and in behalf of the Batch, we wish to say you are welcome and thank you for taking care of our Wally. 

Effectively, the event was also the Batch's 2015 Christmas party. It was filled with light moments, fond memories and updating on DLS stuff. The light moments involved the censor-prone banter and conspicuous behavior of the Batch. This is why this Blog is called Menagerie (i.e. a grouping of wild animals!). The fond memories on the other hand mainly recalled Wally who was a childhood classmate. 

During the proceedings, DLSU's new President, Batch63's Bro. Ray, was placed on the hot seat. The Batch pestered him no end about La Salle's new sports program. Like all La Sallites, the school's elimination in this past UAAP season does not sit well with Batch63. Considering its new coach, Bro. Ray painted a hopeful picture for this next basketball season. But basketball was not the only sport in the minds of the Batch.. Bro. Ray had to respond as well on the activities and prospects of the De La Salle women's volleyball. For us to compete with the likes of Ateneo with its formidable volleyball team, it is clear that we will require a line up that is "pretty good". But then again if we must lose, a team that is just plain "pretty" - period - will suffice! 

Meanwhile, thanks to Joey Estagle for the clear photos in this edition. His SLR is certainly showing pics way better than anything my cellphone camera can provide.  Merry Christmas everyone! 

Onimayo

See slide show for more photos.

Baguio Trip

The Kapihan guys finally embarked for their Baguio City jaunt on the second weekend of December. It was a 2-night/ 3-day weekend excursion planned out at Italiani's (Makati Greenbelt). The pairs were: Jackie Arellano & Marilou, Manolo Relova & Coco, Lito Quiogue & Nene, Raffy Yupangco & Jovy, Onie Mayo & Billie and the father-son tandem of Polding Arnaiz & Anton. The singles were: Gabby Valdes, Gary Salcedo and Jimmy Estrella. 

The group stayed at Baguio Country Club where they met other DLS guys by chance. Butch Valdez (HS 64) was there with his family for the wedding of a son; Humpty Golamco (HS 61) was on vacation with his wife. This made the group even larger especially during meal times at the Veranda. The traffic in Baguio's city proper areas made the group opt to spend most of their time in the Club. The club had enough amenities to satisfy this option.

So what did the group do, you may ask?  Well,  Well for one, what they did NOT do was to play golf. This sporting activity that would have mitigated the calories from all that food intake, was ingloriously shelved.  Meeting at the restaurant for the tee-off early the next morning, the golfers found all kinds of reasons not to take to the fairway.  After their heavy breakfast, the thought of walking the fairways was not too appealing to the Seniors.  The golfers thus sheepishly agreed to instead just stay put (some with beer in hand). Some did go out shopping (to the Good Shepherd store at the insistence of the wives).  Most settled down to enjoy the nearby places, the fine food if not their comfortable rooms.

Onie wanted some exercise, but his planned tennis activity came to naught.  In Baguio, he found out that the tennis court at the club had been converted into a function room. Club members Gabby and Jackie (who should know that there was no more tennis court facility) were the ones who urged him to lug bulky tennis equipment to Baguio. They were the first one to laugh at his plight too.  Ang babait talaga!  Good thing, there was another option. Onie joined Manolo instead at the Club swimming pool for at least an hour of exercise. Ah, that clean pool and warm water was good! 

The car rides for the event were memorable as well. The group went up caravan style in Jackie's Carnival, Raffy's M150, Lito's Toyota and Polding's SUV. Off course, there was the usual pit stop and eats in Pampanga. I understand that it is standard service for Raffy to have a driver, a valet and all kinds of supplies when he and Jovy goes on trips.  Probably because of all the weight in his van, Raffy's large M150 blew a tire at the entrance to the SCTEX. The car buffs (Gabby,Jackie, Polding, Lito) in the group made their technical analysis and posed theories why that happened. And what did Raffy who was the van owner think? He was unperturbed.  He was actually surprised to know that tires do have expiry dates and can actually blow up. Why,  his tires were just changed in 2007!  It's the fault of his driver!

In ending, thanks to Jovy Yupangco for the artistic photo collage above.  It was a fun trip and now the group is looking forward to their proposed Dumaguete-Bacolod excursion in January. 

Onimayo

See slide show for more photos.

Wally de Leon, RIP

At 3 PM on a Wednesday, the middle of the working week, Batch 63 guys gathered at Loyola Memorial Chapels in Guadalupe Makati. Jackie Arellano sent out a text about the demise of a Wally de Leon. He said that we can pay our last respects there for a fallen comrade. 

Those who came were: Quito Moras, Ed Lim, Bambi Goco, Ned Bulatao, Art Alvendia, Joey Estagle, Vic Corpus and Onie Mayo. Mon Mojica (DLS College 68) is Wally's relative and was also there. The group offered their condolence to Flor.  Flor is Wally's partner who was in touch with Batch63 all through Wally's ordeal, Of course there was Wally's family (the de Leon- Tobias family of Sta. Cruz, Laguna) including a son who came all the way from Paris where he is staying. 

The mass was slated at 5PM (just before cremation). This is the height of Metro Manila traffic and so the priest was very late in coming. And Jackie who sent out his text blaster and who promised to meet the guys at the wake? We are guessing that he was probably caught in traffic too.  He wasn't there still when the Batch guys had to leave already.

For the 40th day ritual, Joey Estagle offered Flor the support of Batch63. Expect a message from Joey soon about this. By the way, the photos herein are Joey's photos.

See slide show for more photos.

Bagac Haven

Last Saturday a group of Batch63 diehards went for an excursion. The place is the Valdes resort estate immediately beside the famous Montemar Resort in Bagac, Bataan. And what a place it was! Starting from its decorative metal gate along the road, the estate stretched out over undulating landscaped areas of the grounds up to the cliff edge overlooking scenic Bagac Bay. The estate's road system impressively leads down to a clean sandy private beach below the cliff. That day, a gentle surf (good enough for amateur surfers I would say) lapped the shoreline. We were told that surf is usually calmer depending on the season.

Gabi and Pam Valdez played gracious host to the group. The scenic Mediterranean style villa in the estate (built by Gabi's dad long ago) is spacious, rustic and comfortable (airconditioned). Lunch was a sumptuous collection of different salads concocted by Pam and the family's Estate's resident cook. Fresh seafood of crabs, prawns and fish from Bataan ponds and tasty soup and kakanin from the region completed the satisfying fare. The Batch63 guys who visited were Jaki Arellano and Marilou, Lito Quiogue and Nene, Oni Mayo and Bili, Bambi Goco and Polding Arnaiz.

Particularly for its landscaping requirement, Gabi and Pam have done an impressive job in tending the estate. The clean paved roads, manicured lawns, clustered plants and healthy large original trees in the estate would put many a commercial resort to shame. It is evident that the Valdes's are now in the process of rehabilitating the few components of the house needing repair. The hearty lunch meal and the overall ambiance of the place was so relaxing that some of the guys feel that they wouldn't mind settling down for a nap - or shamelessly, even staying overnight.        

The early morning trip to Bagac had the group riding in Jaki's F150 van. Going there was ok. Coming home at peak hour 7pm traffic was something else. The log jam upon entering Metro Manila (that we hoped would not be as bad) was bad. Despite the usual bellyaching in the van regarding the traffic, it was a fun trip if only because of the company. Champion bellyacher was Polding who complained about the aircon draft on his head (Polding wore his parka hood for parts of the trip). For Polding, it was Jaki's fault for not having a more balanced aircon service in his van. And then the bad traffic experience, whose fault was it?  Must be Gabi's fault for inviting us to Bagac. 

The event was so successful that the group is now mulling a next one - a European river cruise maybe next year? For those interested sign up now. Before closing, thanks to Gabi and Pam for an awesome time once again and sorry na lang to those who backed out of the trip. 

Onimayo


See slide show for more photos.

Monday Cafe’

As previously announced, Batch63’s regular weekly kapihan is now lodged in a new location. The place is a resto called Italianni’s at Greenbelt 3 (just across AIM). The presence of the mall parking facility right beside the resto makes it very convenient to access (see photo above).

The Batch63 regulars are: Gabby Valdes, Poldy Arnaiz, Jack Arellano, Lito Quiogue, Ed Lim, Manny Relova and Oni Mayo. The balikbayans who are committed to this 7am Monday protocol when they are in town are Gary Salcedo and Bobby Dee. Recently, other DLSC guys who have joined the group on more than one occasion are Raffy Yupangco and Sonny Juico. This is not to speak of other La Salle guys who are usually there on Mondays with their respective groups.  The guys are Errol Perez, Boy Cantada and even Ramon Marcos who was probably more than a decade ahead of us in Taft. 

The acceptability of Italianni’s to the Batch has been growing since the group started going there over the last couple of months. (See slide show for photos during the last session) It turns out that the resto is a popular breakfast place for many groups. Despite the presence of other customers though, Batch63 remains uninhibited. Clearly, there is no holding back Batch63 with their conversation and actions. The self-deprecating, mock-bragging and DOM-flirting actuations continue on for Batch63 in this new place. Having gotten to know the indulgent pretty waitresses there for a while now, it seems that the regular Kapihan shall be in Italianni’s to stay.

Italianni’s was decided on after consultation with Kapihan’s weekly regulars. Being in the heart of Legaspi Village, the place is conveniently accessible for those who work /live around the area. After years of eating buffet at Cameron Forbes (Polo Club), the Italianni's food is a pleasant change.  More importantly, Italianni’s has a discount incentive card offered to patrons. The usual Senior card discount coupled with the Italianni card discount (with unlimited coffee) then brings the total discount to about 40% on the order. 

Let me ask you then, is Italianni’s a good place for Batch63 or what?  See you there soon hopefully.

See slide show for more photos.

Throw Off the Bowlines, Sail Away From the Safe Harbour.

By : Lito Quiogue 5/2015 

Last week, a bunch of HS63 wanderlusts "threw off the bowlines and sailed away from the safe harbor". This describes in brief the group's special trip to the City of Iloilo. This trip was upon the invitation of Alex Ledesma to visit his hometown following a memorable trip to Roxas City (Jon Arcenas’ turf) by Batch 63 earlier this year . The intrepid DLS adventurers were: Jackie Arellano, Polding Arnaiz, Steve Honteveros, Manolo Relova, Lito Quiogue, Gary Salcedo and Sonny Juico (HS’61). Except for Polding and Steve, the rest were accompanied by their respective wives. We were twelve pax in all. 

Day 1. From Iloilo International Airport Alex took us to lunch to savor various Ilonggo seafood delicacies. Aboard a Coaster and an SUV we then hopped onto a ro-ro ship for a tour of the neighboring island of Guimaras, (famous for its sweet mangoes, islets and pristine beaches). Landing in Guimaras, it was nearly dark by the time we reached our hotel, La Puerta El Paraiso. Fagged out from the trip, we quickly settled down for the night after a hearty dinner. In the morning we opened our curtains and were pleasantly surprised at what we saw.  We found out that our cottages were actually just a few steps away  from the beach (we didn't realize this in the dark). 

Day 2. After a hasty breakfast we boarded a motor launch to visit a marine research and breeding facility in one of the islets around the island. It was like Nat Geo “live” as we saw up-close several abnormally large species of fishes and various specimens of marine life. Back in the main Guimaras island we visited several tourist attractions such as the Trappist Monastery, Guimaras Trade Fair and Neptune Garden (where we had lunch). Of course no one leaves the island without tasting and taking home the island’s primary export, sweet and luscious carabao mangoes! After a while, we sailed back to the Iloilo mainland, There, we checked-in at a luxury hotel located in a new section of the city.  This area was bustling with malls and restaurants including a commercial esplanade along the river. 

Day 3. In the morning we motored to several nearby towns whose well preserved limestone churches were built during the Spanish colonial era. Apart from the ancient churches we also had a pleasant ride along the coast. In downtown Iloilo we were delighted at the cleanliness of the streets and business establishments and the orderly conduct of cars and pedestrians. Our tour guide (c/o Alex) brought us to several places which boast of opulent and magnificent mansions owned by Iloilo’s old rich and famous. Not to be missed in our itinerary were the various shops selling Iloilo’s famous delicacies and bakery products. After a well spent day we proceeded to the area near our hotel. It’s a mixed-use residential-business project with the modern Ayala Land mall at the forefront. The penultimate event of our trip that night was Alex’s blow-out in a chic restaurant. 

Day 4. Began with the routine of packing our clothes and pasalubongs for our afternoon flight back to Manila. After breakfast, Alex brought us to the City Museum and Provincial Capitol with its roof deck where a panoramic view of the city can be experienced. Touring other places of interest allowed us to witness the contrasting change from the old to the new in the city’s road to progress. The best is yet to come. Back in Ayala’s Avida site, we had lunch in Netong’s restaurant where we tasted the original La Paz Bachoy, “the pride of Iloilo”.    It was the ultimate Ilonggo experience for all. Enroute to the airport, our last stop was to see the condominium project Alex recently built.  The building project was  intended for students and employees of several schools and hospitals that abound in the vicinity. It has modern amenities, is spacious and is practical in design and layout. 

Kudos to Alex who with a couple of his staff put together our itinerary.  They also provided our transportation and serviced our hotel booking. We expect Alex enjoyed the tour time as well considering the clowning-around and the idiosyncrasy of each member. The presence of wives was a natural call to discipline and order for the group and which partly restrained the otherwise wild outspoken boys from of HS’63. 

In retrospect we found ourselves amazed at Iloilo’s transformation. Starting with our landing, Iloilo International Airport is modern (by local standards), clean and staffed with friendly personnel. Roads are first class - many of them having been upgraded. Restaurants are a-plenty and packed with diners. Food is superb and inexpensive. It was indeed another memorable relief from Manila’s polluted and fast-pace environment.

See slide show for more photos.