Big step backward

ALVAREZ. Deserves nothing but the best

Mikka Garcia, televiewer: “NUT’s Inquirer article about Eat Bulaga’s ‘Suffer Sireyna’ portion expresses what I also felt about the show’s lack of respect and blatant ridicule of gays. It is a big step backward in promoting acceptance of gays in our society!”

Other notes:

Jerry Gracio, poet and screenwriter: “Through her rendition of Sharon Cuneta’s ‘Pangarap Na Bituin’ in the semifinal round of ‘The Voice Kids,’ Lyca Gairanod, in a voice so pure and devoid of pretension, sang into our hearts! It was my first time to vote for a talent-search contestant!”

Alex delos Santos, theater director: “I think the classiest performance on ‘The Voice’s’ seminfinals was Darren Espanto’s ‘One Moment In Time.’ Juan Karlos Labajo can quit and get himself a contract with ‘ASAP’—but, based on audience votes, it’s a tossup between Lyca Gairanod and Darlene Vibares.

“Already being likened to Nora Aunor, Lyca will get sympathy votes for her humble origins, and Darlene is well-liked for her ‘bombastic’ cuteness. In the end, ABS-CBN will likely choose the most bankable young talent who will rake in the most money. This is show biz, after all.”

Justice system

Orly Agawin, organizational development consultant: “The Cinemalaya season is just around the corner—but, by far, the best Cinemalaya film for me is Veronica Velasco’s ‘Last Supper No. 3,’ which is about the inescapably corrupt justice system in our country.

“I watched the movie at the CCP Main Theater in 2009 with some 1,800 audience members, who laughed so hard it made me jump in my seat. But, toward the end of this tragic-comedy, there were hopeless sighs and the clucking of tongues. Yes, we abhor the system, but it is one that we all helped create and continue to tolerate.

“Watching ‘Last Supper’ was an empowering experience. It was a delight to see great actors crack jokes about a vicious cycle in a system that is sworn to provide ‘equality’ for all. Too bad there are no DVD copies of this film to remind those who have seen it how comedy can bring so much pain to the Filipino soul.”

Romeo Dy, restaurateur: “I wish there could be a really good food show on local TV, hosted by an articulate Pinoy foodie expert—a counterpart of Anthony Bourdain, who mixes culture and food in his travels. We have a rich and diverse food culture, so we should show it to the world!”

Cookie Dames-Tiglao, young mom: “For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had this dream of becoming a theater actor. However, my ‘practical’ side always took over (along with advice from my elders), so I was constantly reminded that I would do much better working in a 9-5 day job.

“Among those who inspire me to chase that seemingly elusive performing career are two people I consider theater ‘deities’: Robert and Isay Seña. Just thinking about them makes me palpitate. They can sing, dance and act!

“I wish the youthful Isay the happiest birthday ever. She deserves nothing but the best. May she be exceedingly blessed and inspire more people each day. Her family is fortunate to have her in their lives—as are we, her fans.”

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