RIP Pacquito Diaz

Angels have come out to welcome home Pacquito Diaz, one of the villainous villains that ever ever villain-ed in Philippine cinema.

Pacquito Diaz, Fernando Poe Jr's favorite bad guy, suffered for many years, first from stroke and then just recently from pneumonia. So his passing, in a way, is a relief. Dude deserves to rest finally.

Heaven must be extra happy today. Partner in crime Max Alvarado more so. Ang Panday, Flavio, probably not so much. Pacquito and Max are probably now plotting against the Panday. Just like old times.

RP Pacquito Diaz.

If you doubt that Pacquito is Fernando Poe's favorite bad guy, just like at the number of films they made together:

Asedillo 1971)
Totoy Bato (1977)
Durugin si Totoy Bato
Bandido sa Sapang Bato (1981)
Partida (1985)
Muslim Magnum 357 1986)
Kapag Lumaban Ang Api (1987)
Agila ng Maynila (1989)
Kapag Puno na Ang Salop Part II (1989)
Kahit Konting Pagtingin (1990)
May Isang Tsuper ng Taxi (1990)
Mabuting Kaibigan...Masamang Kaaway (1991)
Hindi Pa Tapos Ang Laban (1994)
Ikaw Ang Mahal Ko (1996)
Ang Pagbabalik ng Probinsiyano (1998)
Isusumbong Kita sa Tatay Ko (1999)
Ang Dalubhasa (2000)
at Pakners (2003)

Striking a Pose Infront of Bullet-riddled Manila Bus Really?

What's happening?! I don't dislike Bong Revilla for once. Great tragedy does that to a person, I guess.

The bullet-riddled tourist bus where eight Hong Kong citizens lost their lives has become a background scene for Facebook profiles. Bong Revilla asked Director Leocadio Santiago of the National Capital Region Police Office to have the bus moved out of Rizal Park in Manila. For once, I commend Jolo Revilla's dad.

Some people talaga seemed to have no sensitivity chip in them. Souvenir shots of our kababayan posing in front of the bullet-riddled tourist bus in Luneta Park are all over various social networking sites. Ano yun feeling "I was there?" MGA WALANG PAKIRAMDAM.

The world is weeping and you are taking pictures of a tragic scene?

I am posting these "souvenir" photos to shame these people into renouncing their Filipino citizenships.



Sibakin ang mga pulis na ito. SOCO pa man din.



Teh, ang lipstick clashing sa background.



Masaya pa kayo? Ano, picnic sa Luneta pagkatapos?

Charlie Davao Has Passed

It was just in the news yesterday evening that friends and colleagues held a reunion of sorts for Charlie Davao. According to son Ricky Davao, his dad has colon cancer and that they don't know what stage. Now this.

Veteran character actor Charlie Davao passed away at the Philippine General Hospital Sunday after battling colon cancer for months.

In an interview on radio dzBB, talent manager German "Kuya Germs" Moreno announced the elder Davao's demise. The details of his wake and interment will be announced soon, he added.

Mr. Charlie Davao, one of our best character actors, passed away the morning of August 8.

Davao last appeared in GMA evening programs "Darna," "Rosalinda," and "Totoy Bato." He entered show business in 1959.

Redford White Has Passed Away

Comedian Redford White, 54, passed away on the morning of July 25 due to complications from brain and lung cancer.

Redford's friends in show business announced his demise on the social networking site Twitter.

"At 6:47 [a.m.] today, my great friend, fellow diver and a wonderful human being known to all as Redford White passed away peacefully," said singer and APO Hiking Society member Jim Paredes in his Twitter account.

In his Twitter account, actor Gabe Mercado also said that Redford "kept his condition secret even from close friends."

"Redford White was a mentor, a man who had tremendous respect for his craft and was perhaps the most generous man I knew. Rest in peace," Mercado added.

Redford White began his movie career in the late 1970's. He rose to fame in the television sitcom "Buddy en Sol" with Eric Quizon during the early 90's.

His movies in the 1990's include "Haba-baba-doo! Puti-puti-poo," "Tong Tatlong Tatay Kong Pakitong-kitong," and "Tik Tak Toys: My Kolokotoys."

His remains lie in state at Sto Nino de Maligaya Chapel in Caloocan City.

The actor-comedian is survived by his wife and daughter.

Son of Cesar Montano Found Dead in QC Home

Christian Angelo Manhilot, the 23-year-old son of actor Cesar Montano, was found dead at his home in Tivoli Royale, Quezon City on Friday, March 26, apparently due to suicide.

Angelo was found by a maid with a gunshot wound in the right temple and a caliber .45 on his mind.

He was declared dead on arrival at the General Malvar Hospital in Commonwealth, Quezon City.

According to the security on duty at the exclusive subdivision where the Montanos live, Angelo entered the subdivision's gates aboard a taxi at almost 3:00 in the morning.

According to speculations, Angelo is having love problems. The security guard who responded to the scene of the accident reported that Angelo reeked of alcohol when he went to check on him.

Cesar Montano's family refused an autopsy and has ask police to stop their investigation because they believed that there was no foul play involved.

Tsk, tsk, tsk. Such a young life and such a waste. Moral of the story: deep depression and alcohol don't mix. And parents, always check up on your children, whether they are 2 or 52.

For what it's worth, let's all pray that the demons hounding Angelo when he lived are no more wherever he is now.

RIP Christian Angelo Manghilot

RIP Toni Rose Gayda’s Son

Cigarettes can kill you!

The youngest son of TV personality Toni Rose Gayda and grandson of veteran actress, philanthropist and head of the Philippine Red Cross Rosa Rosal died in the wee hours of morning of 19 Mar 2010 from a freak accident.

James Lim, 25, fell from the fourth floor balcony of his unit in a condominium building in Wack-Wack Road, Mandaluyong City.

Toni Rose Gayda’s son apparently fell while smoking in the verandah. The victim suffered from broken arms and ribs and was rushed to the Cardinal Santos Memorial Hospital. James Lim died a few minutes later. His last words, “Mom, I’m in pain.”

The body was cremated this afternoon, but a two-day wake will be held at the Sanctuario de San Jose in Greenhills, San Juan.


Video of Rosa Rosal, Toni Rosa Gayda in mourning below.

Johnny Delgado Passes Away at 61

Veteran movie and television actor Johnny Delgado has passed away at 61 after a year of battling lymphoma or cancer of the immune system.

Delgado, born Juan Marasigan Feleo, died at around 1:45 p.m. Thursday.

Delgado is the husband of multi-awarded director Laurice Guillen and father of opera singer and theater actress Ana Feleo and TV and film actress Ina Feleo.

Delgado is best known for being part of the television gag show Goin’ Bananas in the 1980s. He also gained recognition for his role in the family drama Tanging Yaman, where he won the FAMAS Award and the Metro Manila Film Festival Award for Best Actor in 2000.

His remains lie in state at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Shrine near Broadway Centrum.

Dennis Trillo’s Boracay Vacation Ends in Tragedy

A friend of Kapuso star Dennis Trillo, Jollibee “JB” Bordajo, was killed in a freak accident in Boracay Wednesday afternoon, Sep 9, according to radio reports.

According to Popoy Caritativo, manager of Dennis Trillo, it was the actor’s first time in Boracay.

The trip was supposed to be business and pleasure for the actor. Dennis is a guest for an event for Discovery Shores and he wanted to take the opportunity to take a vacation after wrapping up his GMA Network comedy series “Adik Sa ‘Yo.”

Dennis went to Boracay on Sep 8 with friend Jollybee "JB" Borbajo, who is also the road manager of singer Gian Magdangal.

After lunch on Sep 9, Dennis and JB, accompanied by young actress Maxine Eigenmann, daughter of Mark Gil, went swimming at Station 1.

“Apparently, malakas daw yung alon, yung mga waves. They were on this area na maraming bato, matatalim daw na bato. Tinanong ko naman siya [Dennis] kung umuulan, hindi naman daw.

"Tapos, parang si JB, nag-dive. He jumped from the rock, then when he was about get up again to the rock formation, may malakas daw na alon na humampas sa kanya. So, humampas siya sa mga bato. He asked for help, so Dennis dove in, he tried to save JB. Nahawakan naman daw niya. But then nahampas silang pareho dun sa mga batuhan at nagkahiwalay sila."

Sa lakas daw ng pagkahampas ng alon, tumama sila sa mabatong bahagi ng dagat. Nagkasugat at nagkapasa sa maraming bahagi ng kanyang katawan si Dennis, gayundin si Maxine. Samantalang tumama naman sa bato ang ulo ng kaibigan nitong si JB na siyang dahilan ng pagkamatay nito.

Dennis and companions tried to revive JB but the head injury sustained by JB from getting slammed against the rocks rendered the first aid futile.

Trillo and Eigenmann, along with Bordajo and an unidentified companion, were brought to the Metropolitan Doctors Medical Clinic for treatment, according to the dzRH report. The two were allowed to leave the hospital at 4:30 p.m. A white van fetched the two celebrities, who covered their heads with a white blanket to avoid getting mobbed by curious onlookers.

Dennis has been discharged and is scheduled to return to Manila on Sep 10.

Dennis’ manager said "He’s very distraught, shocked. He was crying all the while I was talking to him. He was crying kasi parang he was asking, bakit nangyari ‘yon... He had a lot of questions. Parang he was very confused kasi they were just having fun, e, they were having a good time. Kasi it was his first time in Boracay, to go into vacation in Boracay. And he’s always looking forward to go there. So, naano lang, alam mo yung instant na..."

Ex-President Corazon C. Aquino Passes Away (1933-2009)

Former Philippine President Corazon Aquino, icon of people power in the Philippines and around the world, passed away at 3:18 a.m. Saturday, her son, Senator Benigno Aquino III, said. The official cause of death was cardiorespiratory arrest.

The 76-year-old Aquino was diagnosed with colon cancer in March of last year and was treated with chemotherapy. Last May, she underwent surgery to remove parts of her colon and was brought to the Makati Medical Center (MMC) in June due to loss of appetite. She never left the hospital, as her declining condition sparked a wave of emotion in the country and prompted the widespread appearance of yellow ribbons - on trees, car antennas, and even the Web.

He added that they chose a private funeral arrangement for the late president rather than avail of a state funeral in Malacañang.

After being confined for barely two months at the MMC, Mrs. Aquino passed away early Saturday morning surrounded by her children.

Dressed in her signature yellow, Mrs. Aquino rallied the middle class in a series of protests culminating in the 1986 people power revolt that toppled the 20-year regime of strongman Ferdinand Marcos and swept her to the presidency.

She blamed the Marcos government for the assassination of her husband, opposition leader Benigno “Ninoy" Aquino Jr., who was gunned down at the Manila airport upon returning from exile in 1983.

The former housewife reluctantly took over as Marcos’ main challenger, becoming an international icon of democracy after her victory sparked a wave of pro-democracy movements around the world. Time Magazine named Mrs. Aquino its Woman of the Year in 1986.

After her presidency, Mrs. Aquino retired to private life. She took an active interest in painting, with flowers and women as subjects, and joined various art exhibits to raise funds for her advocacies: the Senator Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. Foundation, PinoyMe, ASA Foundation, and People Power People.

But she remained an influential figure in Philippine politics, lending her presence to political causes that needed her iconic stature.


Amid an overcast sky and a light downpour, Aquino’s remains arrived at the La Salle Greenhills in Mandaluyong City to a shower of yellow confetti.

Aquino is dressed in a yellow Paul Cabral dress embellished with Swarovzki crystal beads. Although visibly thinner, the former President looked serene.

In Aquino's hand is a rosary with pink beads and gold chain. Spokesperson for the Aquino family Lourdes "Deedee" Siytangco clarified that the rosary was not the one given by Sister Lucia, one of the three shepherd children who supposedly saw the Virgin Mary at Fatima in Portugal.

"That one is blue," Siytangco said, referring to Lucia's rosary.

The two-day viewing will be closed for three hours from 4 a.m. to 7 a.m. on Sunday and Monday to give way to maintenance work.

From La Salle, Mrs. Aquino’s remains will be brought to the Manila Cathedral where overnight vigils and requiem masses are scheduled. A necrological Mass will be held Tuesday night.

After a 9 a.m. Mass Wednesday, Mrs. Aquino’s body will be brought to the Manila Memorial Park in Paranaque for interment. No details have been disclosed yet to media about the funeral procession route.

Senator Aquino said that his mother will be buried beside the remains of his father, the late Senator Benigno Aquino Jr., assassinated upon his arrival in Manila from the United States on August 21, 1983.

The Aquino family has also set up a memorial site at the historic EDSA Shrine called "The Dedication Garden for Tita Cory," where supporters can leave their flowers and notes for the former head of state.

Michael Jackson Autopsy Results

According to the L.A. County Coroner, Michael Jackson's autopsy has been completed, but more testing is needed before the official cause of death can be determined.

The coroner said the cause of death was deferred because additional testing, including toxicology and other tests, is needed. It will take 4-6 weeks to complete.

There was no trauma to Michael's body and "no indication of foul play" but Michael had been taking "some prescription medications."

Michael Jackson was pronounced dead in the emergency room of UCLA. Jackson's body will be released after 6 PM.

A close member of Michael Jackson's family said Jackson received a daily injection of a synthetic narcotic similar to morphine - Demerol. Yesterday he received a shot at 11:30 AM.

Family members are saying the dosage was "too much" and that's what caused his death.

Who was the last person to see Michael Jackson alive?

The last person to presumably see Michael Jackson alive is Dr. Conrad Murray. Jackson's live-in doctor unsuccessfully performed CPR on the King of Pop before the ambulance showed up.

The LAPD still has not spoken to the elusive doctor. Also, the reason the LAPD towed Murray's car from MJ's house last night is because "it might contain evidence."

Michael Jackson's doctor sent a letter to his patients 11 days ago, announcing that he will be indefinitely leaving his medical practice.

Dr. Conrad Murray sent the note on his letterhead from his medical practice in Las Vegas. He says, "I am deeply saddened to leave you at this point, but please know my absence is not permanent." He continues, "In my absence, I will continue to manage the practice, and be involved as much as possible but from a distance."

The letter says "My absence is not permanent."

Could the doctor's leave of absence have something to do with AEG, the company that was putting on the London concerts, putting Dr. Murray on the payroll?

RIP Michael Jackson (1958-2009)

Michael Jackson has died. He was 50.

Michael suffered a cardiac arrest earlier this afternoon at his Holmby Hills home and paramedics were unable to revive him. When paramedics arrived Jackson had no pulse and they never got a pulse back.

Jackson was dead when paramedics arrived. A cardiologist at UCLA said Jackson died of cardiac arrest.

Once at the hospital, the staff tried to resuscitate him but he was completely unresponsive.

According to a source inside the hospital, there was "absolute chaos" after Jackson arrived. People who were with the singer were screaming, "You've got to save him! You've got to save him!"

One of the staff members at Jackson's home called 911.

Michael Jackson's brother says it's believed that the pop star died of cardiac arrest.

Jermaine Jackson cautioned at a hospital press conference Thursday that the cause of his death would not be known until an autopsy was performed.

He said Michael Jackson's personal doctor and paramedics tried to resuscitate him at his rented home in Holmby Hills. A team of doctors at UCLA Medical Center also tried for more than an hour.

Los Angeles police Lt. Gregg Strenk said at a separate news conference that police robbery-homicide detectives have been ordered to investigate, which is common in a high-profile case. Strenk says the coroner's office, which will handle inquiries into the type of death, is taking possession of the body.

RIP Farah Fawcett (1947-2009)

Farrah Fawcett died at 9:28 AM today. Ryan O'Neal and Alana Stewart were at her bedside. She was 62.

She died at St. John's hospital in Santa Monica in the ICU. Also present was Farrah's longtime friend and hairdresser, Mila Murphy, and Dr. Piero, who has been caring for her.

Farrah's only child, Redmond, was not present. He's currently in jail. A petition will have to be filed for Redmond to be able to attend the funeral -- as of now, this hasn't happened.

The "Charlie's Angels" star was diagnosed with anal cancer back in 2006.

Ryan and Farrah did not marry during her final days. Alana Stewart, who has known Farrah for 30 years, said "she will always be there as that angel on the shoulder of everyone who loved her."

Ryan O'Neal just released the following: "After a long and brave battle with cancer, our beloved Farrah has passed away. Although this is an extremely difficult time for her family and friends, we take comfort in the beautiful times that we shared with Farrah over the years and the knowledge that her life brought joy to so many people around the world."

Douglas Quijano Is Cremated At Heritage Park, Taguig

Douglas Quijano, well-loved talent manager and friend to many of his showbiz colleagues, was finally laid to rest Saturday.

The remains of Quijano – Tito Dougs as he was fondly called by friends and talents – were cremated at 1 p.m. on Saturday afternoon at the Heritage Memorial Park and Crematorium in Taguig City.

Quijano was found dead last Saturday morning in his rest house in Lucban, Quezon. His attending physician, Dr. Uli Nantes, ruled the cause of death as a heart attack.

Stars and loved ones mourned over his untimely demise at 64.

"Pag meron tayong problema, si douglas ang tinatawagan natin lagi,pag meron kang gustong malaking desisyon na masolve, si douglas yung tatawagan natin lagi, nung namatay si douglas, si douglas pa rin ang gusto nating tawagan eh," said actor Richard Gomez, one of the many actors whom Quijano led to stardom, during the eulogy.

"I think we’re gonna suffer in the next few years, he is a great loss," added Lucy Torres-Gomez.

The Gomez couple hosted Quijano's last birthday party on July 25 last year in their Greenhills home.

Quijano was best known for managing Richard Gomez’s career, though he also jumpstarted the careers of Tirso Cruz III and Aga Muhlach.

Also among the other celebrities whose careers he managed were John Estrada, Joey Marquez, Wendell Ramos, Antonio Aquitania, Anjo Yllana, Gelli de Belen, Jay Aquitania, Benj Basa, and Richard Gutierrez.

But Marquez emphasized during the eulogy that Quijano was more than a manager.

"As a manager, that is, for us, secondary, I think he is more of a father, a mother, a friend, a critic, a mentor, than a manager," he said.

Even the talent manager’s sister said she was witness as to how much he was valued by the entertainment industry.

"We really love [Douglas], everybody in the industry, not just my family, his family, but everyone in the entertainment industry, and I’m proud of him," Roxie Quijano-Tan said in an interview aired over GMA’s Flash Report.

Quijano’s cousin, Jorge Javier, added: "What Douglas gave to everybody was is the integrity of this family and this is the kind of integrity that is rare in the industry and I would say to Douglas's talents, is the integrity and respectability of Douglas in his work, in keeping his name good and clean is the legacy with which they might want to look up to, if not, live up to."

RIP Douglas Quijano

Douglas Quijano on far right with talents

The Philippine Artists Managers Inc. (PAMI) lost one of its founding members with the unexpected death of talent manager Douglas Quijano.

PAMI sent PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) the following text message:

"Our beloved DOUGLAS QUIJANO went home to His Creator this morning while in his home in Lucban. Let us pray for the eternal repose of his soul-a GOOD and KIND MAN. A CARING FRIEND TO ALL-we the PAMI grieve this big loss. A founding member and our FIRST CHAIRMAN."

Douglas was the first chairman of PAMI and considered as first among equals. The group's current president is June Torrejon, while the chairperson is Ethel Ramos.

The veteran and respected talent manager was found dead, reportedly of a stroke or heart attack on Friday (June 13) in his home in Lucban, Quezon.

Update: Rochelle Barrameda Identifies Remains of Sister Ruby Rose

On Jun 10, the two-year search for Rochelle Barrameda's sister Ruby Rose ended when her remains were recovered inside a drum sealed inside a cemented steel case at the Navotas Fish Port.

Rochelle had confirmed that the remains were her sister’s, based on the earrings and the clothes recovered. Superintendent Elma Galero of the National Police’s Crime Laboratory affirmed Rochelle’s statement and said the victim’s dental records matched Ruby Rose’s.

Authorities were able to locate the steel case through a tip from an informant, Rochelle said in Thursday’s radio interview. She added that the informant admitted to being "one of those who took part in cementing the case."

Ruby Rose's remains now lie at the Manila Memorial Park in Sucat, Parañaque, Rochelle said.

Who is the mastermind?

Asked who could be behind her sister’s killing, Rochelle pointed to Ruby Rose’s husband, Manuel Jimenez III, father-in-law, Manuel Jimenez Jr., and Manuel III’s uncle who owns the Buena Suerte Jimenez fishing company in Navotas City.

"Nagkaroon kami ng lead na ang may kagagaawan nito ay si Atty. Manuel Jimenez Jr., Manuel Jimenez III, and kasama rin dito ‘yong uncle niya na may-ari ng Buena Suerte Jimenez sa Navotas. Doon ginawa at doon din itinapon," she said.

Rochelle said her sister confessed to having marital problems and that Manuel III even threatened to kill her.

"Sinaktan siya (Ruby Rose). Sinabi na papatayin siya. Na-witness ‘yon ng anak nila," she said.

Ruby Rose then asked a local court for a temporary protection order but her bid to secure the order was dismissed, Rochelle added.

Rochelle recounted that over the last two years, the Barramedas had repeatedly asked the Jimenez family for help in locating Ruby Rose, but "they never wanted to talk to us."

The Jimenez family, through their legal counsel, denied involvement in Ruby Rose’s killing, much less having any motive behind her death.

"Walang dahilan para i-utos [There is no reason to have her killed]," said laywer Mario Aguinaldo.

Aguinaldo explained that the Jimenezes even wanted Ruby Rose alive because there is an ongoing child custody case between her and Manuel III. "We (Jimenez) are even winning the case," Aguinaldo added.

Rochelle Barrameda's Sis Is Finally Found

Former beauty queen and actress Rochelle Barrameda on Wednesday, June 10, confirmed that the remains found inside a cemented steel case in Navotas City was that of her sister Ruby Rose’s. Barrameda based her confirmation from the clothes worn by the body.

The recovery had officially ended the family’s two year search for Ruby Rose. The police would have to match first the remains’ dental records with the ones submitted to them by the family.

Members of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) found Ruby Rose’s body following a tip from an informant. The victim has been missing since May 2007.

“Sa imbestigasyon namin sinabi niya [informant] na isang babae ang nasa loob n’yan at hanggang ngayon ay iniimbestigahan namin. Para kami makasigurado isinabmit namin sa crime lab [para] magka-meron sila forensic analysis."

Barrameda got emotional when she first saw the cemented steel case at the police crime laboratory. “Hindi makatao. Inilagay na sa drum… hindi ka pa nakontento sinemento mo pa."

Barrameda’s family suspected that Ruby Rose’s husband, Manuel Jimenez III, had something to do with the killing.

“Ang kapal-kapal ng mukha ninyo para sabihin nyo na wala kayong alam. Ang kapal ng mukha niyo. Sana kung ano man ang nararamdaman naming, maramdaman niyo rin, maramdaman ng pamilya nyo," she added.

The report said Jimenez’s counsel denied Barrameda’s presumption.

The lawyer, whom the report did not name, said his client could not be charged in court based on a mere suspicion.

Survivor Bulgaria Dies While Filming in Philippine Beach

Philippine police say a contestant of the Bulgarian reality show "Survivor" has died of a heart attack while filming on an island beach.

Police say the 53-year-old Noncho Vodenicharov died Saturday, 30 May, despite efforts by a Filipino and a Bulgarian doctor to save him.

Chief Inspector Hilario Lelis Are said Monday that Vodenicharov had just finished an activity for the contest at the Gota Beach Resort in Caramoan township in eastern Camarines Sur province.

Bulgarian news reports say he was a town mayor and a former stunt man and singer.

"Survivor" originated in the US but other countries have created their own versions of the popular show. Contestants compete in a variety of tough physical challenges until there is a sole winner.

Zorro Star Richard Gutierrez Hurt in Car Accident

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

An assistant of actor Zorro star Richard Gutierrez was killed while the matinee idol and his bodyguard were injured after they figured in a road accident in Cavite province before dawn on Friday, 22 May .

The accident occurred at 1:20 a.m. at an accident-prone area at the Santa Rosa-Tagaytay Road in Puting Kahoy village in Silang town in Cavite.

Gutierrez’s car hit a post and fell into a deep ravine, and hit a coconut tree. Gutierrez's assistant, Norman Pardo, died while being treated at the Adventist University of the Philippines Hospital.

Gutierrez, 25, and his bodyguard George Mastura, suffered relatively minor injuries and were rushed to the Tagaytay Hospital for treatment.

Initial investigation showed Gutierrez was on his way home from a shooting when the accident occurred.

He was the one driving the Nissan Skyline GTR sports car.

The area where the mishap took place is “accident-prone" as it is near a blind curve. There have been complaints that there are no lights or safety barriers on that part of the road.

Broadcaster Ted Failon's Wife Dies

Ted Failon's wife, Trina Etong, has died from an alleged self-inflicted wound to the head. This should have been an ordinary shooting incident, but because Ted Failon is a sort-of celebrity known for his hard-hitting commentary on socio-political issues and because the police mysteriously chose now to show their "vigilance," the issue has become a farce.

I would have liked to avoid the "serious side" of celebrity because there is no talentless starlet to diss, or ego-tripping celebrities to mock. There is no fun in that. But this issue tugs at the heart strings and raises one's sense of right and wrong. To me this issue resonates with a good versus evil vibe that I can't help but follow to the end just to see the outcome.

My first reaction was, "Ted Failon, his wife is in the hospital with a gun shot wound, big deal." But I happened to catch the late night news yesterday. Big mistake because what I saw just melted my coal-black, cynical heart.

What has happened and continue to happen to Ted Failon's family are the stuffs that we thought we would only see on hardcore teleseryes. It's hard to watch while relatives and household helps are being arrested by police while the victim is fighting for her life. And consider this, Ted's oldest daughter saying, "Mahirap pong aminin on national TV that my mom committed suicide." Ouch. I can empathize since suicide matters are best left within the family to deal with. Instead, they are forced to make this kind of disclosure so they will be left alone to grieve in peace.

I'm not one to take things at face value. But with so many people telling the same story, one can't help but believe that it is what it is. To the police, I have two words "overkill and overacting." Sana you are this quick to respond when dealing with big-time drug dealers, crooks and corrupt government officials. As it is, mga hayup pa rin kayo. Full story below.


Trinidad “Trina” Etong, wife of ABS-CBN news anchor Ted Failon Etong, passed away at 8:50 pm Thursday night after suffering from a gunshot wound to the head that her family said was self-inflicted more than a day earlier.

ABS-CBN vice-president for Manila Radio and Sports Division Peter Musngi, who was in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the New Era Hospital in Quezon City where Trina was being treated, said the patient's condition turned for the worse at 8:25 pm after her blood pressure went down.

He said at least six medical attendants tried to save the patient, but nothing happened.

As of posting, Musngi said Failon had already called for a priest who will administer the final blessings on his 44-year-old wife.

"Ted is inconsolable," Musngi said. "He is both sad and angry."

Kin taken into custody

Shortly before Trina’s death, members of the Quezon Police District-Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit arrested took into custody four of her relatives for questioning.

Investigators held Trina's siblings, Pamela Arteche-Trinchera and Maximo Arteche, along with two others, identified as Mary Ann Ronda and Jacqueline Perez.

They were taken from the New Era General Hospital, as they stood watch over Failon's wife.

Police charged Pamela with obstruction of justice.

As of posting, Pamela had already been released and was able to return to the hospital at around 11 pm following her sister’s death.

Police said they would no longer charge Maximo for obstruction of justice after he tried to stop the police from arresting his sister, Pamela. Maximo was also released from custody.

Inhumane treatment

In an interview on Bandila, Kaye Etong, eldest daughter of Failon, criticized the Quezon City police for their allegedly inhumane way of treating her relatives.

“My relatives are not criminals. They just wanted to take care of my mother,” Kaye said.

She said the police had no warrants of arrest when they took into custody her relatives.

Kaye said she believes her mother felt the stress from the commotion brought about the police’s warrantless arrests, which contributed to her passing away.

“I think mama felt the stress,” she said.

Kaye said that when her mother tried to kill herself on Wednesday, she was alone, and when she died, she was without her siblings.

She asked the police: “Are you content with what you’ve done to us? What else do you want to do to us?”

Kaye said there were no inconsistencies in the statements of her father and the helpers who were in their home when her mother attempted to kill herself.

“It’s very painful to admit before the public that she tried to take her life. It’s hard to admit before national TV that my mom committed suicide,” she said crying. “Stop all these charges already.”

Excessive force?

Senior Superintendent Elmo San Diego of the Quezon City Police District said he will investigate claims by Failon's relatives that policemen used excessive force in taking them into custody.

“Well kasi, meron akong hazy na report, I’m just waiting for the official report from the field. Kasi daw, meron daw allegedly, yung kapatid daw ni Trina nag-scandalo dun. The police officers tried their best to contain the situation,” San Diego said.

“Ang problema nga, meron sinasabi sakin yung mga friends natin, nakita naman sa footages parang meron daw excess na, excessive force na ginawa yung mga bata. And at this point, I'll have to investigate. Bukas susubmit tayo ng report at aantayin ko yung report na manggagaling sa mga bata sa field. Wala pa kasi official na report na binibigay sakin,” he added.

Lack of respect?

Commission on Human Rights (CHR) chief Leila de Lima said based on videos of the arrests, there appear to be numerous violations of police procedure and a lack of respect for what the family was going through.

She also raised the possibility that the Quezon City police’s actions against Failon were a retaliation against ABS-CBN’s exclusive video footage of the summary killings of alleged car thieves near the National Irrigation Administration in Quezon City.

“I hope that this is not part of any design to harass Ted Failon or any other TV personalities, especially of your station. I hope, ha,” she said. “Baka naman harassment ito dahil nga, it was ABS-CBN which caught on cam that incident on EDSA-NIA.”

De Lima added that they will investigate the arrests.

Watchlist

Meanwhile, the justice department ordered the Bureau of Immigration to place Failon on its watchlist.

Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez said Thursday Failon is considered a suspect at this time in the shooting of his wife, who was found in their home Wednesday with a gunshot wound to the head.

"I instructed the Bureau of Immigration to put him on the watchlist," Gonzalez said.

Police are still trying to determine if the shooting was a suicide attempt or foul play.

In a press conference Thursday morning, National Capital Region police chief Roberto Rosales said everyone at Failon's residence will be treated as a suspect, including the ABS-CBN news anchor himself.

Negative for gunpowder

A paraffin test on Failon yielded negative results. But Rosales clarified this is not yet conclusive.

"Walang makapagsabi na suicide, walang nagsabi na may bumaril. We will depend on evidence that we have recovered and will still be recovering from the area," Rosales said.

Speaking to ABS-CBN late Wednesday night, Ted said his wife may have tried to commit suicide because of financial problems.

"Kung ano man ang problema na iyan, kung pera man yan o anuman yan, kikitain ko lang iyan. It's all about the family's finances,” he said.

Failon also tried to assure his wife by saying, “Mommy, galing tayo sa wala eh, di pino-problema iyan."

Helpers taken into custody

Police on Thursday took into custody Failon's helpers.

Carlota Morbos, Frida Bollecer, Pacifico Apacible, and driver Glen Polan-- were all taken to Camp Karingal for possible obstruction of justice after the bathroom where Failon's wife was found and the vehicle used to bring her to the hopsital were cleaned.

Morbos, Bollecer, and Polan were detained in the police headquarters after they were charged with obstruction of justice. Apacible, a relative of Trina, was released following Trina’s death.

Morbos, Bollecer, Polan, Apacible, and Pamela Trinchera will have to post P12,000 bail each on Friday.

PAO told to stop helping Failon

Gonzalez, meanwhile, has asked the Public Attorney's Office (PAO) to stop meddling with Failon's case.

Gonzalez said PAO chief Persida Acosta cannot represent Failon unless ordered by the court.

Earlier, Acosta said Failon should be allowed to move without restrictions since no charges have been filed against him at this time.

Failon is under police custody. He has also been charged with obstruction of justice and will have to post bail.

"It is not within their [PAO] mandate. I will charge them if they insist on handling the case. I already called Acosta and I also sent her a memo. She can't represent conflicting interest unless the court orders her to assist Failon on the spot. What I don't like is that she already talked to the relatives of the wife and to forensic experts and is contemplating on helping them file charges,” Gonzalez said.

Apology note

Pamela, Failon's sister-in-law, confirmed it was Trina who wrote the letter of apology that Failon presented to police investigators.

She also said that contrary to reports, Ted and Trina did not have a heated argument prior to the shooting.

Second look

Investigators also took a second look at the house of Failon on Thursday, and the result may help the broadcaster clear his name in the shooting of his wife.

San Diego said investigators found the trajectory of the bullet that went through Trina's head inside the bathroom where she was found.

“Nung una, ang sepculation inilipat yon at hindi talaga yun yung scene, pero yung second search na ginawa, nitong SOCO na ‘to, yung second processing, lumabas ngayon na dun pala kasi nakita na yung bullet marks dun sa dingding. Sa tingin ko na pabor kay Kuya Ted ‘to,” he added.

San Diego also said they may return to Failon's house several more times to be able to complete their investigation.

RIP Natasha Richardson (1963-2009)

Tony-award winning actress Natasha Richardson died at the age of 45 due to severe brain injury sustained from a seemingly innocuous fall while taking private ski lessons at a luxury ski resort in Quebec, Canada. Richardson was said to have been fine after the fall, even laughing and joking about the incident. An hour later, she was rushed to the hospital after complaining of not feeling well.

She was survived by husband, actor Liam Neeson, and two sons. Natasha Richardson comes from acting royalty. The daughter of Vanessa Redgrave and director Tony Richardson. She is the sister of Joely Richardson, best known for her role in Nip/Tuck. She also has various uncles and aunts in the acting business.

Richardson has a long list of acting credits, both on film and on stage, to her name. I liked her quite a lot in the remake of The Parent Trap, where she starred with Dennis Quaid and the pre-teen, and not yet-annoying Lindsay Lohan.