Moymoy Palaboy goes Crazy 4 Crocs

By DJ Mojo Jojo

Magic 89.9 DJs Tony Toni and Grace Lee led a night full of good fun and cheer as Crazy for Crocs, a new campaign in support of the beloved footwear brand, was recently launched with an exclusive party at the Hard Rock Café in Makati. The three-part campaign draws inspiration from the many DIY videos that have gone on to become big hits on the Internet. Fittingly, the launch party featured popular YouTube comedy duo Moymoy Palaboy as special guest performers.

Your Chance to Become an Online Superstar

Moymoy Palaboy has ushered the trend of becoming famous online with crazy homemade videos and this reality can be the same for aspiring comedians, performers and film buffs with the Crazy 4 Crocs video challenge! From broadcasting funny videos from their home computer, this funny pair has now become a household name pursuing their dream of performing, fame and fortune - And now, you can follow in their footsteps!

The first part of the promotion, a competition wherein participants will be performing funny Crocs-themed challenges issued by Magic 89.9’s/Killerbee’s Good Times radio show each week and each month. The crazy videos will then be showcased on the wacky nighttime radio show Boys Night Out with DJ’s Tony Toni, Slick Rick and Sam YG!

Listen to Boys Night Out to win a Honda Jazz and other prizes

“I love how Crazy 4 Crocs involves YouTube videos, which we are all very familiar with and which we all love,” said Tony Toni. “There’s a ton of great prizes to be won, and the challenges themselves are really funny. I would join myself if I could! With Crazy for Crocs, anyone can become a star and win big.”

Participants will have to beat these simple challenges and capture this on video. These videos will then be posted as official entries on www.crazy4crocs.com where visitors can vote for their favorites.

The Crazy for Crocs Grand Raffle meanwhile gives buyers of Crocs products the chance to win a slew of great prizes, including a brand new Honda Jazz for the Grand Prize winner. Finally, Crocs Pick-a-Prize gives in-store customers a chance to win instantly with each purchase.

Boys Night Out & Good Times can be heard weekdays on Magic 89.9 and their provincial Killerbee affiliates nationwide. Or visit the website www.magic899.fm for more details.

Katy Perry and Boys Like Girls come to Manila

While speaking of crazy videos, the pop princess that “Kissed a Girl,” who is known for her wacky fashion sense, and melodramatic (and sometimes controversial) music videos is coming to perform on Philippine shores! It’s Official! All Youth Channels, Inc. bagged the hippest concert of the year: Katy Perry Live in Manila on October 3, 2009 at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds. The concert will also feature a special performance from Boys Like Girls! The one-night-only concert is another event under the MTV Philippines Live Concert Series.

Katy Perry rose to fame in 2007 with her Internet hit "Ur So Gay" (a withering kiss-off to a metrosexual ex, a song that even the Queen of Pop, Madonna grew fond of) and later scored in 2008 her breakthrough single "I Kissed a Girl" (a provocative ode to the beauty of women that ruled radio over the summer of 2008). The song became an all-format hit shooting to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 where it stayed put for seven straight weeks and tied The Beatles' Capitol Records record for weeks at No. 1.

On the other hand, Boys Like Girls gained mainstream recognition when they released their self-titled debut album Boys Like Girls. They were the co-headliners with Good Charlotte for the Soundtrack of Your Summer Tour 2008 that toured across the U.S. The group's second studio album Love Drunk, is currently scheduled for a September 8, 2009 release date.

Check them out at the MTV World Stage Live In Malaysia which premieres this September 4, 2009 at 5pm on MTV Philippines. Catch show repeats on Friday, Sept 4 at 530pm; Sunday, Sept 6 at 8pm; Saturday, Sept 12 at 5pm; Wednesday, Sept 23 at 7pm; Thursday and October 1 at 2pm.

For ticket reservations to this one-night-only concert, check out TicketWorld at www.ticketworld.com.ph or call at 891-9999.

Women of Exception & Compassion

TV and radio personality Grace Lee joins other female celebrities in the battle against cervical cancer


By DJ Mojo Jojo

Today's Mojo:lations is all about the celebration of womanhood. From the vision of one woman's love for music translated into a showcase for Filipino talent now known all around the world, to the advocacy of compassionate ladies striving to protect Filipinas from a deadly yet preventable disease, read on to find out more.

Honoring One Woman's Dream

The Philippines’ premier choral group, the Philippine Madrigal Singers, have worked tirelessly over almost five full decades to bring the Filipino’s incomparable choral gift to the world to touch hearts and improve lives through their performances and training of up-and-coming choral talents. On July 27, 2009, they stood both honored and humbled by the recognition of this unique mission as Koichiro Matsuura, Director-General of UNESCO, formally designated the Philippine Madrigal Singers as UNESCO Artists for Peace. This recognition was granted in the presence of Ambassador Rora Navarro-Tolentino, Ambassador to France and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO; Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs Esteban Cunejos Jr. and other members of the Diplomatic Corps, and the Filipino community in Paris. After expressing their gratitude and plans for fulfilling the role of Artists for Peace in an acceptance speech from Choirmaster Mark Anthony Carpio, the Madz delivered a stirring, sterling one-hour concert that reminded all present of their capability and dedication.

These hard-traveling singers, the latest in a long line of proud Madz generations, were brought together in 1963 for the first time by Philippine National Artist for Music, Professor Andrea O. Veneracion. Their name has since become synonymous with peerless vocal skill, performance quality, individual discipline, and musical diversity. The Madz have spent the last few decades winning choral competitions such as the European Grand Prix – widely understood to be the Olympics of the choral circuit, which they have won twice (1997 and 2007) – and reaching out to budding choirs from all corners of the Philippines via the Madz Et Al choral network. The latter has enabled many of these choirs to compete abroad and win, as well as continue the practice of giving back to their own communities. They have been recognized as UNESCO Artists for Peace “in recognition of their efforts to promote dialogue and understanding among peoples in Southeast Asia , their contribution to extend UNESCO’s message of peace and tolerance, and their dedication to the ideals and aims of the Organization.”

Now named UNESCO Artists for Peace for the next two years, the Philippine Madrigal Singers are recognized celebrity advocates charged with the mission of embodying, and raising awareness in, the UNESCO ideals – including collaboration for the promotion of peace, security and fundamental human rights and freedoms – in their respective contexts through their respective means and talents.

Stars join “Brilyante” for Women's Health

In celebration of women’s strength, health and vitality, the Mu Sigma Phi Sorority of the UP College of Medicine is organizing a gala dinner and glamorous fashion presentation dubbed “Brilyante: The Empowered Woman.” Joining their effort are a slew of prominent and compassionate female celebrities ready to advocate their cause.

Gynecologic oncologist Dr. Genara Manuel - Limson, Mu Sigma Phi Sorority ’59 and chair of Brilyante, revealed that cancer of the cervix is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among Filipino women. “It is also the second most common cancer among women, the first being breast cancer. Every year, an estimated 6,000 Filipino women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and more than half of them die of this disease. Five out of 10 Filipino women with cervical cancer will die within five years,” adds Dr. Limson.

The star-studded event promotes a positive outlook and a proactive stance for women faced with this disease. To be held on August 28, 2009 at the NBC Tent in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, this event is both a campaign for awareness on cervical cancer and other diseases caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, and a fund-raising activity for the benefit of the Cervical Cancer Prevention (CECAP) Network Program and the Service Committee of the Sorority. The theme is also designed to highlight the Sorority’s 75th, or Diamond, anniversary as it continues to expand its shining influence on the health concerns of Filipino women.

“Part of our thrust for women empowerment is our advocacy for cervical cancer awareness and other diseases caused by HPV. We have always dedicated ourselves to championing worthwhile causes – and one of the most pressing medical concerns right now is the issue of cervical cancer among women,” said UP-PGH OB-Gyn Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Angela Rodriguez - Bandola, Mu Sigma Phi Sorority '99 and co-chair of Brilyante.

Brilyante gathers some of the country’s most prominent and promising fashion designers, namely: Delby Bragais, Tina Daniac, Rhett Eala, Jun Escario, Parrish Espiritu Carlos, Veejay Floresca, JM Goulbourn, Oj Hofer, Michelle Lim, Richie Ortega, Randy Ortiz and Philip Rodriguez. In cooperation with the Professional Models Association of the Philippines (PMAP), the designs will be donned by professional models and prominent society members, such as ramp veteran Tweetie de Leon – Gonzalez, model-actress-TV host Angel Jacob, commercial model-TV host-radio disc jockey Grace Lee and Trade Ambassador Mela Bengzon. Also sashaying down the runway are sorority members who are prominent doctors in their chosen fields of medicine, and cancer survivors.

“I decided to join the advocacy because many of my close relatives have battled cancer,” says Grace Lee. “ I know how it can drain a family financially, emotionally and mentally. One way to prevent this from happening is to promote awareness and prevention. Women now have a choice now to protect ourselves from HPV.”

Partnering with the Mu Sigma Phi Sorority in the advocacy is global research-based pharmaceutical company, Merck Sharp and Dohme (MSD), that has been actively promoting awareness about HPV, which is the cause of cervical cancer. Through support of this advocacy, MSD encourages women to help protect themselves and get vaccinated, not only against cervical cancer, but against other HPV-related diseases, such as vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer, and genital warts.

Madrigal Singers honored by UNESCO

Artists for Peace, the world famous Madrigal Singers founded by National Artist Andrea O. Veneracion

By DJ Mojo Jojo

 

The Philippines’ premier choral group, the Philippine Madrigal Singers, have worked tirelessly over almost five full decades to bring the Filipino’s incomparable choral gift to the world to touch hearts and improve lives through their performances and training of up-and-coming choral talents. On July 27, 2009, they stood both honored and humbled by the recognition of this unique mission as Koichiro Matsuura, Director-General of UNESCO, formally designated the Philippine Madrigal Singers as UNESCO Artists for Peace. This recognition was granted in the presence of Ambassador Rora Navarro-Tolentino, Ambassador to France and Permanent Delegate toUNESCO; Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs Esteban Cunejos Jr. and other members of the Diplomatic Corps, and the Filipino community in Paris. After expressing their gratitude and plans for fulfilling the role of Artists for Peace in an acceptance speech from Choirmaster Mark Anthony Carpio, the Madz delivered a stirring, sterling one-hour concert that reminded all present of their capability and dedication.

 

These hard-traveling singers, the latest in a long line of proud Madz generations, were brought together in 1963 for the first time by Philippine National Artist for Peace, Professor Andrea O. Veneracion. Their name has since become synonymous with peerless vocal skill, performance quality, individual discipline, and musical diversity. The Madz have spent the last few decades winning choral competitions such as the European Grand Prix – widely understood to be the Olympics of the choral circuit, which they have won twice – and reaching out to budding choirs from all corners of the Philippines via the Madz Et Al choral network. The latter has enabled many of these choirs to compete abroad and win, as well as continue the practice of giving back to their own communities. They have been recognized as UNESCO Artists for Peace “in recognition of their efforts to promote dialogue and understanding among peoples in Southeast Asia , their contribution to extend UNESCO’s message of peace and tolerance, and their dedication to the ideals and aims of the Organization.”

 

Now named UNESCO Artists for Peace for the next two years, the Philippine Madrigal Singers are recognized celebrity advocates charged with the mission of embodying, and raising awareness in, the UNESCO ideals – including collaboration for the promotion of peace, security and fundamental human rights and freedoms – in their respective contexts through their respective means and talents.

 

 

Anne Curtis and Dingdong Dantes Meet At "Intersection"

DJ Mojo Jojo

Intersection, an adrenaline-fuelled animation that provides a hard-hitting look at human trafficking and sexual exploitation in Asia. The half-hour anime features the voices of Ely Buendia, Dingdong Dantes, Anne Curtis, Epi Quizon and Dolly Anne Carvajal. Intersection premiered yesterday on MTV Philippines but will re-air July 26 at 3pm; July 29 at 5:30pm; August 1 at 9pm; August 3 at 10:30pm; August 13 at 8:30pm.

“We’re using a different medium, animation, to alert young people about the risks of human trafficking,” said Olivier Carduner, USAID’s Mission Director for Asia . “It adds to the body of work – documentaries, music videos, film shorts, concert specials and public service announcements – that MTV and USAID have released to reach potential victims and to promote law enforcement and victim outreach efforts.”



"MTV Philippines is very proud to be contributing its effort to such corporate social responsibility causes. We hope that this campaign provides important information for people to protect themselves as well as inspire our audience to join the fight against trafficking," commented Francis Lumen, CEO of MTV Philippines.

Intersection is MTV EXIT’s first animated film. It is produced by JM Animation, the award-winning Korean studio that created the visually haunting Wonderful Days. Intersection’s soundtrack features music by Radiohead of the UK and Thievery Corporation of the US. MTV EXIT will be releasing Intersection in English and Asian languages featuring the voices of well-known actors from throughout the region. MTV EXIT programming is produced rights-free and is free of charge for all broadcasters & organizations. All the programming can also be streamed and downloaded from www.mtvexit.org.

Richard Gutierrez in controversy once more
Actor Richard Gutierrez was charged with reckless imprudence resulting in homicide by the wife of his bodyguard who died in a car crash with him on May 22 in Silang, Cavite.

The case was filed by Lorayne Pardo, 29, of 1763 F.B. Harrizon Street, Pasay City, who is the wife of Gutierrez’s production assistant, Nomar Pardo. The preliminary hearing is set on August 15 at the Prosecutor’s Office in Imus, Cavite.

According to the Fiscal’s Office in Imus, Lorayne personally filed the criminal charge of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide against Gutierrez, 25, of Mckinley Street, Makati City.

According to records, the car crash happened late morning of May 22 as Gutierrez and Pardo were riding a car (ZTU 775) when it fell from a cliff. The car was a total wreck and Nomar died instantly and Gutierrez was thrown outside the car and escaped serious injuries.

Lorayne said that she has not asked for any monetary consideration from the actor and has not received any amount from him or his family.

This Richard Gutierrez controversy comes on the heels of a recent slew of alleged altercations involving the young star. A few days ago, Boldstar of the influential society blog, www.donavictorina.com posted:

[Last October 17, Richard Gutierrez and Aljur Abrenica had a confrontation at the Fiamma Bar on Jupiter Street in Makati City. PEP reported “according to the stunned customer, he distinctly saw Richard giving Aljur's head a short, quick slap.” A similar incident was again reported by PEP- a scuffle happened between him and Michael Flores. Richard went on to sue PEP - Atty. T. Angelica Y. Santiago, legal counsel for Richard told the media that Richard Gutierrez is seeking P25 million in damages.

When Richard Gutierrez filed a libel case against Joann Maglipon and others (PEP staffer) obviously with the urging of his mother and supported by his sister, I was delirious with contempt. The aforementioned article was uploaded and pulled within 3 hours. For that, the Gutierrez family wanted 25 million pesos. Based on his claim, malice existed on the article with the words “gun toting” creating an implied notion that a “deadly weapon” was used.

Well, first of all a lot of men carry guns in the Philippines. Even the guards of Pizza Hut in SM Cebu had a revolver and a shotgun. Ditto most of the politicians. Secondly, how can one deduce that gun toting is understood by many as “use of a deadly weapon”?

It’s really a case of creating mountains out of a molehill. This is an actor or an entertainment personality who courts the media at every opportunity. To be precise, the family begs the public to watch their movies, short of being a chickenhead in the ghetto.

Lucky for him the article allegedly false was not about him kissing a man. My gash what would that do to his alleged macho reputation? Qui horror!

To save you the legalese, the DOJ dismissed the claim on two grounds. As you might recall Victorina’s post on libel, authored by Atty Trixie, stated that the existence of probable cause depends on satisfying all 4 elements of libel.

a) Imputation of a discreditable act or condition to another

b) Publication of Imputation

c) Identity of the person detained

d) Existence of Malice

Elements A and D according to the DOJ were not sufficiently established. Anyway no one would have known about it if not for the ex Mrs Yilmaz Bektas blabbing to all and sundry of the Philippines through her Ruffa and Ai Show and SNN. Maybe he should sue his own sister for being a blithering blabber mouth. To think that Annabelle hides behind freedom of speech whenever caught with her vitriol towards people who disagrees with her or people she cannot bamboozle.

Carlo Ople wrote that “bloggers and online communities are very particular with their right to free speech. The moment someone attempts to attack that, they will retaliate – and they will do so without mercy. People who comment in posts and bloggers are not covered by ethical codes of conduct and they will do whatever they want to do – which maybe a good and bad thing. My point here is that Rama and her son are both asking for more pain.”]

Michael Jackson Tribute on MTV

By DJ Mojo Jojo

For the past few weeks, the world has been mourning the loss of one of history’s greatest musicians and performers. With the body of Michael Jackson finally laid to rest, the media is awash with coverage of the celebrated artist as his friends, family and fans continue to pay their last respects. Touching the lives of many generations, Michael Jackson’s legacy lives on through his music and will certainly shape the pop culture of generations to come.

M.J - HIS Story in Music

MTV pays tribute to Michael Jackson as we turn the spotlights high and bright one last time to the King of Pop! The premier Philippine music channel is celebrating the legendary career of this pop icon off by revisiting the influential and monumental career of the Michael Jackson with over 12-hour special programs, showing some of his never before seen footage on July 12 as we switch to an all-Jackson programming from 9am until 12 midnight. This will be a one time opportunity to finally get a run through of the King of Pop’s Life.


Michael Jackson: His Story in Music Parts 1 to 6 - 9am, The Story of Michael Jackson Parts 1 to 6 – 12 noon, Michael Jackson: The Legend Continues – 3pm

Michael Jackson: An Epic Journey – 430 pm, Michael Jackson: Scream – History in the Making – 5pm, Michael Jackson Changes History – 530 pm, Michael Jackson: Moonwalker – 6 pm, Rockumentary: Michael Jackson – 730 pm

A Celebration of Michael Jackson on MTV (new!) – 8pm, MTV News: A Michael Jackson Tribute Special (new!) – 9pm.

Akon Concert Postponed

Akon fans still have something to celebrate. Due to unforeseen events, Akon’s concert at the Araneta Coliseum (which was supposed to be held last week) has been rescheduled to October 23, 2009 at the same venue.

In its letter dated June 28, 2009, Akon’s management outfit, represented by American Talent Agency Inc. President Matthew Mateo, released to this statement: “Due to unforeseen events, Akon’s Asian tour must be rescheduled including the July 4th show which will now be held on October 23, 2009. Akon extends his sincere apologies to his many great fans in the Philippines and assures you that the postponement could not be helped. Akon will put on a great show for everyone in October.”


ALV Events International, which is producing the Akon concert, wishes to assure all ticketholders that all tickets purchased prior to July 4 and from hereon will be honored on October 23.

Pupil to front for N.I.N.

By DJ Mojo Jojo

Manila’s rock-scene is about to go hardcore in just a few weeks! The Philippines’ very own Pupil, the local hit-makers fronted by Ely Buendia, was recently chosen as the opening act by the international rock band, Nine Inch Nails, coming to Araneta Coliseum this August 5, 2009. Out of a possible ten local bands suggested by Splintr.com, the honor ultimately went to Pupil.

Splintr.com recently confirmed that Pupil was chosen as opening act for Nine Inch Nails, coming to Araneta Coliseum on August 5. The band, fronted by Ely Buendia, who gained fame with his former band, The Eraserheads, is a relative newcomer to the local music scene, having been formed in 2005. Despite being new to the scene, Pupil has already made big waves by winning various awards including ‘Artist of the Year 2008’ at the NU107 Rock Awards and Best Rock Band at the Pasiklaband Awards, 2008.

Nine Inch Nails (N.I.N.) personally chose Pupil among the shortlist provided by Splintr.com. Manila represents the first stop on the Asian leg of the NIN world tour, entitled WAVE GOODBYE. It represents what may be the farewell tour, maybe the last. Frontman and driving force behind NIN, Trent Reznor, indicated that after this tour the band would take an indefinite hiatus to focus on other projects. Taken from their official website, Reznor himself broke the news to his legions of fans “In N.I.N. world, 2009 marks the 20th anniversary of our first releases," Reznor wrote. "I've been thinking for some time now it's time to make NIN disappear for a while. After some thought, we decided to book a last run of shows across the globe this year."

Catch Nine Inch Nails Live together with Pupil in Manila this August 5 for a one-night only concert at the Araneta Coliseum. For ticket inquiries, please log on to www.ticketnet.com.ph or call 911-5555 or visit www.splintr.com for more details.


PHOTO CAPTIONS:

Legendary rock band Nine Inch Nails will invade Manila this August

Ely Buendia and his Pupil bandmates hand-picked by N.I.N.

John Lloyd is the New Face of Cherry!

I've always been a fan of John Lloyd Cruz! From his boyish smile and plump cheeks that beg to be pinched not to mention his lovable charisma and acting prowess... he is every bit a star. While he's been the topic of showbiz reporters as of late as everyone seems to be in his business, wondering if he's single or not, John Lloyd is still making his rounds about town grinning ear to ear. Well, it looks like John Lloyd has a lot to smile about, especially as the new image model of Cherry Mobile.

Image Model John Lloyd Cruz and Roger Chiu of Cherry Mobile

John Lloyd was recently spotted at the official launch of Cherry Mobile. It was a spectacularly glam event as celebrities, media luminaries, and other beautiful people flocked to Bureau bar in Makati. Cherry Mobile, the newest player in the local mobile communications industry, introduced their new line of fully-featured dual SIM handsets to the public.

Hosts, Jaimee Joaquin and DJ Tony Bueno at Bureau

Hosted by DJ Toni Tony (of Magic 89.9’s Boys Night Out) and beautiful model/TV personality Jaimee Joaquin, the future-themed party turned out to be a sufficiently hot affair, with guests filling up Bureau to its full capacity. Partygoers were treated to a program full of surprises. A fantastic air dance show started the party, leaving the crowd breathless. Stunning Miss Philippines-Earth candidates came to join the party, flashing off their new Cherry Mobile handsets to the delight of the attendees.

 The Miss Earth beauties with Cherry Mobile CEO Maynard Ngu

The moment John Lloyd stepped up to the microphone with Aggie Conopio of Versatile Telecoms (the exclusive distributor of Cherry Mobile), the screams were deafening. When was asked how he felt being chosen as the official endorser of Cherry Mobile, he said that the dual SIM features of the handsets would come in very handy. “I’m very excited about the new line from Cherry Mobile. You can use two SIMs at once, watch TV and listen to music, and the design is very classy. The phones are also very affordable, even with all their features.”

According to John Lloyd, there are four new handsets from Cherry for the public to watch out for: The Cherry D20 Life has all the basic features that cellular phone users love in a Dual Active SIM/ Dual Standby model with a built-in camera. The Cherry D50 Inertia is the “Motion in Action” handset of Cherry- it caters to the active people with its sporty rugged feel. The Cherry M35 Integra is the “Entertainment anytime, anywhere” phone. And the S11 Blade is Cherry Mobile’s fashion handset. The design features a sleek finish and all the needed functions for user’s leisure and entertainment. The best thing about Cherry is that, not only do the units suit every Filipino’s lifestyle, but also suits the Filipino budget as the dual-SIM phones are extremely affordable with models starting at around 3,000 pesos!

When asked by some media about if there was a specific woman in his life that John Lloyd would be calling in the near future with his new mobile phone, the actor just laughed and smiled, thwarting any intrigue in the process.

Amazing Race Duo on the Edge

From dual-SIM phones, today's Mojo:lations goes on to chronicle another dynamic duo, this time in the personalities of Amazing Racers Geoff Rodriguez and Tisha Silang. The pair was spotted with their celebrity friends as they helped get the action off to a blazing start to launch Castrol EDGE, a new line of fully synthetic engine oils that guarantees top performance for your car. Castrol EDGE delivers maximum horsepower and lasts 45% longer than standard engine oils. It also provides optimal thermal stability and maximum engine protection.

 Amazing Racers Geoff Rodriguez and Tisha Silang with Terry Agregado and Herbert Haber of BP

Starting off the night was the special auto show which featured 82 souped-up high-performance tuner vehicles from many of the best car clubs and organizations in Metro Manila, including Team Rage, Accord Tunerz, Girl Racer Club, and others. Partygoers were given the special chance to meet and mingle with celebrity motoring aficionados who joined the celebrations, including actress and former Hot Babe Andrea del Rosario and Jennifer Lee.

 Jennifer Lee at the EDGE celebrity car show

Silang and Rodriguez, who were featured prominently as top three finalists in last year’s The Amazing Race Asia, said they were particularly excited about the car show.

“We’re big car fans so it’s a real treat for us to be here,” said Silang. “Some of the rides we saw at the show were just incredible. We’re really hyped to see the movie as well.”

“Being surrounded by fast cars and hot babes, I'm one lucky guy! I definitely picked up some great ideas for my own car,” added Rodriguez.

The Have's and the Have Nots

By DJ Mojo Jojo

With the observance of Earth Day on April 22 fast approaching, the media seems to be abuzz with efforts to save the planet and promote a healthy and sustainable environment. More than just preserving the Earth and it's limited resources, such an observance was borne from the world’s growing population and genuine want to provide for ALL.

While Earth Day has been an annual celebration since 1969, it seems like our planet is still plagued with the same dilemma of the “HAVE’S” and “HAVE NOT’S.” Although we worry about building a sustainable lifestyle which will see humanity on through the decades and into the next century, it still pains me that there are just so many who do not have the “basic necessities” that most of us take for granted everyday.

MORE THAN ENOUGH

Given the current resources of our lonely planet, the fact of the matter is that there IS plenty to go around. Poverty and gross inequity can be alleviated if not for the disparate allotment of the Earth’s resources. Millions of men, women and children continue to go hungry while others gorge themselves into obesity or foolishly waste food unsparingly. Some people have no bed to rest in and sleep on cold dirt floors while the lucky ones own comfortable homes - far removed from the poverty that is a way of life for so many of their fellow men.

Mankind is supposed to be the steward of the Earth’s bounty, but it is apparent that we are not living up to this responsibility. Instead of sharing and providing for all, it the virtue of charity has taken a backseat to those who would horde, monopolize, perpetuate greed or just plainly live an apathetic or aloof lifestyle, unaffected by the plight of those who struggle to scrape by on a day-to-day existence.

A MINIATURE EARTH

The fact that you are reading this blog-post makes you one of the HAVE’S as opposed to one of the HAVE NOT’S. Chances are you enjoy access to much of the planet's resources that millions of men, women and children will never experience in a lifetime. But are you fully aware of how lucky you really are?

This brings me to a website that was featured on our radio program just recently. According to a movie found on www.miniature-earth.com, “If the Earth were reduced to 100, it would look something like this…”

The site states:

The text that originated this movie was published on May 29, 1990 with the title “State of the Village Report”, and it was written by Donella Meadows, who passed away in February 200. Nowadays Sustainability Institute, through Donella’s Foundation, carries on her ideas and projects.

The miniature Earth project was first published in 2001, since then more than 2 million people have visited its website.

The statistics have been updated based on specialized publications, and mainly reports on the World’s population provided by different resources, like UN publications, PRB.org and others. Bear in mind that these are only statistics, and consequently changes might occur after a few months or only after years.

The website’s movie, paints a startling picture of how unfair like is for the vast majority of humankind. By itemizing the statistics of a microcosm of the Earth’s population, the site implores one to ponder what they can do to help their fellow men. If not a poignant list of facts that will educate and open your mind to how iniquitous the world really is, www.miniature-earth.com urges readers to “appreciate what you have and do your best for a better world.”

THE MICROCOSM - FOOD FOR THOUGHT

If we could turn the population of the Earth into a small community of 100 people, keeping the same proportions we have today, it would be something like this…

ETHNICITY: 61 Asians, 12 Europeans, 8 North Americans, 5 South Americans and from the Caribbean, 13 Africans, 1 from Oceana

BY SEX: 50 men, 50 women

LIVING CONDITIONS: 47 live in an urban area, 43 live without basic sanitation, 18 live without an improved water source, If you keep your food in a refrigerator and your clothes in a closet and if you have a bed to sleep in and a roof over your head you are richer than 75% of the entire world population

RELIGION: 33 are Christian, 18 are Muslim, 14 are Hindu, 16 are non-religious, 6 are Buddhists, 13 practice other religions

ECONOMY & WEALTH: 6 people own 59% of the entire wealth of the entire community, if you have a bank account then you’re one of the 30 wealthiest people in the world

EDUCATION: 14 can’t read, only 7 are educated at a secondary level

HEALTH: 9 are disabled, 13 are hungry or malnourished, 1 adult aged 15-49 has HIV/AIDS

MILITARY SPENDING: The village spends more than US$ 1.12 trillion on military expenditures and only US$ 100 billion on development aid

DAY TO DAY SURVIVAL: 18 people struggle to live on US$ 1.00 per day or less, 53 people struggle to live on US$ 2.00 per day or less

COMPUTERS: Only 12 have a computer, only 3 have an internet connection

* * *

Given the statistics above, I’d like to modify a familiar phrase: “It’s a small world, after all… and an unnecessarily unfair one at that!”