2018 International Men’s Day: 23 Different Men of Milagros

“Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value.” – Albert Einstein  

      In celebration of 2018 International Men’s Day, TMA selected 23 Milagreños men of varying and unique backgrounds across the world. “Positive Male Role Models” is this year’s theme and inspired by this, I asked TMA members to name Milagreno men whose inspiring stories are truly worth mentioning. With 42 individuals as initial nominees, and shortlisted to 30. These shortlisted individuals were formally informed through Facebook messenger about the selection process. Some did not want to be included as they chose to remain private about their lives, which I respected.

      The following stories were sewn in unique ways by time, personal challenges and victories, passion, diligence, perseverance, consistency, and positive behaviour toward success. I personally collected and curated these stories amidst everyone’s busy life. Beyond perfect but worth the time of reading through.

     Rey Arcenas who is a Florida-based (USA) medical doctor, remains humble despite of his scholastic and professional achievements. Dr. Arcenas graduated Magna Cum Laude at Velez College in Cebu City with a degree in Nursing. He finished fourth nationally for the Philippine Nursing Board Exams in 1994. He created remarkable history for himself and for the Province of Masbate, as being the first Masbateño to hit the top place in February 2001’s Physician Licensure Examination. I will definitely write a more substantial item about Dr. Arcenas comes 2019.       Dr. Joveno Galvez is a cardiologist by practice who chose to serve his province, most especially providing medical service to his fellow Milagrenos with discounted professional fees or completely free of charge. He served as former Medical Director of Masbate MMG Hospital Cooperative in Masbate City and presently the Chairman of the Department of Internal Medicine of the same medical institution. 

     Drs. Arcenas and Galvez are today’s most sought after medical practitioners in the US and Masbate, respectively.

              Next in line are the two honorable gentlemen with 4H (handsome, hardworking, honest and humble) practicing the principle of political will gearing toward social change in their own humble ways. Leo Garra served as Brgy. Captain Greater Lagro (District 5) in Quezon City. Serving as member of the barangay council for many years before winning the seat of the Barangay Captain in May 2018 elections. In an effort to maintain the awards that his predecessors received in 2016 and 2017, Kap Leo received the same Gawad Dangal ng Lungsod for Barangay Seal of Good Housekeeping Award, making Barangay Greater Lagro as a Hall of Famer. Presently, he is one of the Board of Directors of League of 142 Barangays of Quezon City.          Meanwhile, in Barangay Poblacion East, Milagros — Chairman Joseleo “Bibiboy” Tan — also committed to bring different air in the name of public service and social change to his local jurisdiction. Evident to this commitment are infrastructure realized throughout his leadership. To name these wonderful undertakings which his constituents are enjoying are concreted pathways, footbridge, street lights and CCTV installations, constructions of chapel, multipurpose building, barangay plaza, health center, and emergency response vehicle that is not only limited within Poblacion East but also accessible by other barangays. Kap. Bibiboy Tan also advocates for environment protection and preservation. Among his achievements, Pob East was the first barangay to successfully achieve Zero Open Defecation (ZOD) under the partnership of Department of Health (DOH) and  the United Nation Children’s Fund (UNICEF) aiming to end open defecation. He is a recipient of awards of appreciation  from different organizations such as ACF (Action Centre la Faim) International, UNICEF and the Local Government of Milagros. I will definitely support his causes in Milagros. 

          I also believe that Milagreños can globally compete. Remember TMA Most Admirable Bachelor finalist Paul Germar Espinas who presently resides in Ho Chi Min City, Vietnam?  He is making a name, internationally. He is the founder of the UpUp App, an interactive project management and HR services company that rewards employees for completing tasks and hitting KPIs. Before the idea of starting his own business, Paul was the Director of Marketing of VietnamWorks.com. Recently, he travelled to many different countries to market his successful app.        

Another Milagreño in the Middle East is also emerging as the only Masbateño to date to hold such highest position. Mr. Oliva is the current Operations Manager of MERAAS Dubai, one of the best real estate developers in UAE. He was the former General Manager of the famous Burj Al Arab. “Kuya Tag” as I fondly call him, helps his relatives and our kahilungsod to find employment in the region. 

       While in the City of Makati, Philippines is Erasto Lupango Panes tasting his own glory of success as the current Director of AFS Philippines Inc., an international brokerage firm with offices in Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, and The Netherlands. Early in his career, Rasty worked as a Consultant of Rural Banks and other lending companies engaged in Microlending and SMEs operations. He spent his more than ten years in CARD Bank Inc and held various positions such as Regional Director, Assistant Vice-President for Learning and Development at CARD MRI Development Institute, and Internal Technical Provider at Partner MFIs in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. 

Paul, Kuya Tag, and Rasty are in demand in a corporate world precisely because of their bright minds and strong decision making.

Jumping to next set of talents, our noble teachers, are:         Sir Gregorio Apues Legal, the School Principal of Mary Perpetua E. Brioso National High School (MPEBNHS)  of Tigbao, Milagros, has brought honor to this school for bagging the 2017 and 2018 Brigada Eskwela Best Implementing School Winner for Secondary Medium Category. The said award is an annual program initiated by DepEd aims to promote volunteerism among the members of community and to ensure that the school is safe and clean learning environment for the students. Legal, is the man behind the success of the school electrification through the solar electrification project provided by One Meralco Foundation. Last September 2018, MPEBNHS is also one of the beneficiaries of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) Medicine Donation Program held in Manila. Sir Gregorio was a graduate of Bachelor of Secondary Education in Osmeña College and placed top 10 in the April 2009 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET). 

         The next educator worth of respect, is an Industrial Engineer. Jose “Boy” Lacson Oliva, for most of his friends is a mathematician. Most of his teaching career (Mathematics, Calculus and Physics) revolved around academias in Metro Manila (San Sebastian College (Manila), University of the East, Arellano University, Technological Institute of the Philippines (TIP Manila), AMA Computer University, Siena College (Quezon City), National College of Business and Arts, Ortanez University, Perpetual Help System University in Laguna, PATS School of Aeronautics, Jose Rizal University (Mandaluyong), and Rizal State University). He is currently teaching at Mariners Polytechnic College Foundation in Legazpi City, where he was awarded as Best Performing Professor of the Year and Student Choice Award for 2015. 

       Another teacher included in the list is Joey Cabarles Canaway of Sitio Mapili, Barangay Tawad. He focuses on his teaching career to help his family needs as he is the family’s breadwinner. This 2014 Mr. Pagdangan fourth runner-up was a scholar of LGU Milagros when he was studying in DEBESMCAT. He passed the March 2017 LET. Currently, he is a Junior High School teacher at Sulpicio T. Condor Sr. National High School in the municipality of Cawayan.

         The next professional teacher I selected was born and raised in Bara, Milagros. Alvin excelled academically and very active in co-curricular activities. He was his class salutatorian in Melchor B. Burlaos Memorial High School in Bara and a recipient of “President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Award of Outstanding Achievements” during the 2010 graduation ceremony.  He once brought pride to the Division Province of Masbate after representing the province to the Regional Skills Development Competitions where he was crowned 1st Runner-Up in the Mr. and Miss STEP (Student Technologists and Entrepreneurs of the Philippines) 2009 held at Camarines Sur National High School, Naga City. He also successfully represented the Municipality of Milagros during the Mr. and Miss Rodeo Masbateño 2011 where he bagged the 1st Runner-Up spot. He was sent to the said competition after winning the first ever title of Ginoong Pagdangan 2010. He obtained his Bachelor in Secondary Education major in English at City of Malabon University and eventually passed the Professional Licensure Examination for Teachers in September 25, 2016.

       Their talents, skills and characteristics are the qualities that made them a good and great mentors. 

         I have three nominees working as seafarers, however, the two asked me not to include them. Thank you to Julius Galvan Galve for responding and accepting my challenge. This very generous seaman who is presently working for Crossworld Marine Services Inc. He donated a portion of his land in Sitio Imbudo, Barangay Jamorawon to be used as a small plaza. Julius also loves farming so in April 2018, he registered the first Jamorawon Vegetables Farmers Association (JVFA) through Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) which he organized himself. The organization’s objectives are to unite all farmers, to further improve the knowledge in modern farming, and to help market their local produce. His ultimate vision is to make Jamorawon as one of the big vegetable producers in Masbate. 

        In the same field, another young farmer is Christian Alvarez Luzong of Barangay Narangasan, Milagros. His parents, currently managing the Lucky CJ Farm, were the ones who motivated him to continue the family business. Christian became a  Facebook sensation because of his Urban Container Gardening platform advocating for organic and natural farming system. Through this he was invited to present in many seminars, trainings, and conferences on the same topic throughout the Philippines. He believes that sharing gardening knowledge can help eradicate our country’s food security issues. Christian presently lives in Finland with his wife and will go home back soon to Masbate. 

        Next highlight is for performing professionals. The first is Radam “Bong” Almoguera, a professional dance instructor who now lives in Imus, Cavite. Since 2011, Almoguera is the Dance Instructor Head for Senior Citizens of Dasmariñas. He works as well  as a dance consultant for Congresswoman Jennifer  Barzaga of the 4th District of Cavite. He joined and won in different ballroom competitions. He was the Grand Champion during the 2016 Region 4 Carnation Ballroom Competition.

        Another dance enthusiast is Alvin Sia Caca who loves to hit the dance floor with his hip-hop and modern dance Filipino group in Kuwait City. In December 2016, he was officially launched as member of Next Episode Crew after he passed the audition. His group was hailed as grand champion last September 2017 during the Salmiya Talent Hunt 2017 (Dance Category) in Kuwait. Alvin is the Chef Supervisor of The Kind Ones Restaurant in Kuwait.  Radam and Alvin are proven that Milagreños can do classic, ballroom or modern dance anywhere in an overwhelmingly big crowd.. 

        Our snappy salute to our roster of Law Enforcers who made to the list. Senior Police Officer 2 Noel Villegas Dalanon II and Philippine Army Murito Danao gave a positive response. October 3, 2005 when Noel was successfully admitted to the PNP service. In his thirteen years in the service, he was promoted and awarded with Best Police Non-Commissioned Officer (PNCO) in 2009, Best Police Community Relations (PCR) and Police Non-Commissioned Officer (PNCO) in 2011. He had been part of many law enforcement operations and anti-criminality campaigns throughout the province that he received total of 23 awards and medals such as Medalya ng Paglilingkod laban sa Kriminalidad (1), Medalya ng Paglilingkod sa Luzon (4),Medalya ng Papuri (8), Medalya ng Kasanayan (7) and Medalya ng Kagalingan (3). Currently, SPO2 Noel is assigned at PHQ, Masbate PPO, designated as Foreign Liaising Section Police Non-Commissioned Officer (FLS PNCO). 

Meanwhile, on August 1, 2003 Murito Danao joined the Philippine Army service. Last year, this tough guy was in Marawi, fighting the Maute terrorists. Our gratitude to Noel and Murito for serving and protecting our town and country. 

             The next Milagreño who made in the list is a dedicated and a great father. Mr Enrique “Eking” Valenzuela is a proud fish vendor. This man raised his children with many learnings in life. According to his daughter who is now a licensed teacher “Papa is the man who always reminds us that family always comes first. He chooses “bulad” rather than meat. If life would give me another chance to live and will give me the oppurtunity to choose a father, I would choose him again not because I already knew that I was once his daugther but because I know that he will give his all and his best to raise his family.” Wonderful father like Tay Eking will make home a better place.

           Two young dreamers captured my heart by their stories. First is Joshua Grico Acaba who is now enjoying his job as a Restaurant Crew of Banaple. Joshua did not give up after he failed twice to finish his dream to become a teacher. He was a CHED scholar in Bicol University taking up BSED major in Physics and then transferred to Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Arts and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) to continue his goal. Because of financial problem he decided to stop his studies and worked in different establishments in Masbate and Manila. He knows that education is very important so he enrolled in Access Computer College, passed the assessment and certificate for Hotel and Restaurant Services NCII. He plans to work abroad to fullfill what he promised to his mother who passed away last year.

Another young man who has a big dream and full of hope is Caezar Vibar De Castro II. Caezar is an independent software developer based in Laguna. He finished his BS Pharmacy degree from Centro Escolar University but pursued his interests in internet and business. It was in 2016 when he started his own business by creating a website: www.bytes-crafter.com where it offers web hosting solutions, games and mobile applications, film and animation, graphic design and music and sound fx. Most of his projects are BPO websites and e-commerce. He is also currently studying BS Computer Science in AMA Computer College – Online Education. I am pretty sure these two optimistic guys will soon succeed.

The last three Milagreños to complete this group of men are consist of an Engineer, a Fire Officer and a Writer. Engineer Richard Doctolero Fallega is in Romblon working as a Project Manager of ALGIMAR Construction and a part time instructor at Romblon State University. He is a licensed Civil Engineer, a registered Master Plumber, certified Material Engineer and safety officer.

        Another talented and pride of Barangay Bara is Fire Officer 3 Marcelo Andaya Lagsa II. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts major in Philosophy and minor in religious studies from the Holy Rosary Minor Seminary in Naga City. He earned units for Master of Arts in Teaching and Master in Public Administration from Osmeña College, Masbate. In 2006, he applied and was appointed as Fire Officer 1 (FO1) at the Bureau of Fire Protection, National Head Quarters. After OJT and Fire Basic Recruit Course Training, he was down loaded to the BFP Provincial Office serving as finance clerk. In 2009, he was reassigned to Aroroy Central Fire Station holding the office job under the Admin Section at the same time as Nozzleman in the Operation Section. After a year, he was designated as Assistant MFM for Admin and conceptualized the edition of the only newsletter of Aroroy Central Fire Station, “SIGYABO” under the instruction of the MFM Insp Nepthalie L. Pusing BFP. As Editor-in-Chief, his advocacy is to promote Masbateño Pop Culture by inserting sections on the newsletter dedicated for the Legends and stories with direct foundation from the three islands of Masbate like the True Legend of Masbate, Enchanted Snakes of Masbate, and Enchanted Stories of Masbate. Also, he also dedicated portions of the newsletter to promote Masbateño Poems. He was also designated as Fire Truck Driver and Station’s Training Instructor for Rescue (Ropes and Knots, Vehicular Accident Response, Collapse Structure, Water Safety and Rescue, High Angle and Below Grade Rescue, Disaster Preparedness and Response), Medical First Responder (Bandaging and Splinting).

      After almost 9 years as FO1, he was promoted as FO2 and after schooling in Fire Arson Investigation and Inspection Course (FAIIC), he was designated as OIC Municipal Fire Marshal of Balud Fire Station which was then a station which is soon to be founded. He solely founded and established the newly opened Balud Fire Station in September 08, 2016. On December 2016, he was promoted to FO3. Today, after establishing the Balud Fire Station, he now serve as Chief Finance, Petty Cash Custodian, Fire Arson Investigator, Fire Safety Inspector, Chief Operation Section and Chief Fire Safety Enforcement Section. Of his twelve years in fire service, he has earned  three (3) Medalya ng Papuriand one (1) Medalya ng Kasanayan and multitude of  certificates and recognitions in service and different trainings.

         The last but not the least is a poet and writer. Enrique “En” Sia Villasis is a recipient of 2011 Maningning Miclat Poetry Awards and 5 Don Carlos Palanca Memorial awards in different categories (Second Prize 2006: “De-Lata” (Futuristic Fiction -Filipino), First Prize 2011: “Agua” (Tula), First Prize 2012: “Crocopedia” (Tula), First Prize 2013: “Manansala” (Tula) and Second Prize 2014: “Marina” (Tula). In 2015, his first book “Agua: Collection of Poems” was launched and published by Linangan sa Imahen, Retorika at Anyo (LIRA) where he is an active member since 2007. Villasis is now working at ABS-CBN Star Creative Unit (TV Production) where he is a regular writer for Kapamilya Teleseryes. Among his projects are “Bagani”(2018), “Dolce Amor”(2016), “Bridges of Love (2015), “e-boy” (2012) and “Guns and Roses (2011). His “Bridges of Love” was nominated in 2016 International Emmy Awards for Telenovela Category. En is a graduate of Electronics Engineering (ECE) from Mapua University (formerly Mapua Institute of Technology) and earned his Master of Arts (Filipino: Malikhaing Pagsusulat) units from UP Diliman. He unselfishly shares his expertise to our future writers in fact he was the speaker of   TMA project dubbed as “ANI: Milagros Harvest of Young Talents” last May 2014.

To these 23 gentlemen and all men of Milagros who have contributed big time to our society, thank you for leading an example, for bringing honor to our hometown,  and for demonstrating the truest attitude of being a Milagreño and as a Filipino – may respeto, maabilidad at lumalaban sa hamon ng buhay! HAPPY INTERNATIONAL MEN’S DAY!

Note: All photos were grabbed from the respective FB accounts.

TMA Most Admirable Bachelors Batch 2

I believe that the first ever set of the most admirable bachelors of Milagros was truly and incredibly successful. Little did we know, Milagros is actually teeming with equally admirable and amazing bachelors, who, on their own unique ways are successful, head turners, and more than deserving a deafening round of applause. The ones that we have generated can be just the tip of the iceberg and we have not tapped the whole resources we might have, who knows. The first group of young and good looking bachelors is continually thriving. Some had materialized “fairy tales” on their own rights. Gian Paulo Martinez, Atty. Anthony Villasis and Mark Dorongon are now all, unfortunately off the hook. Sorry ladies to break your hearts. Meanwhile, Paul Espinas recently launched his very own Vietnam-based company. But hey, cheer up, here is another set of young, full of character, beautiful faces and fresh admirable Milagreños to tease your hearts and maybe the answer to prayer to find someone who can live on the dream of your I Dos to “forever and eternity”.

If you would ask ladies what would be their standards for their ideal man – expect this four word answer – “Tall, Dark and Handsome” – but pretty much, this has become more of a cliché. Down the road, the deeper personality gives more weight when it comes to choosing a partner. The next roster of fine Milagreño gentlemen bear all these qualities, some with TDH and others, way more skin deep or the combination of both.

While both the first group and these fresh faces of the second have equal qualities, all of them are way unique from each other. The first batch of gentlemen were chosen solely by appointment and did not involve our ever active online community, so we decided to get everybody involved in the selection and searching process for Milagros’ hidden gems waiting to be mined. So, the process was to let the members of our online community, the TMA, to identify names, and put them on our walls for people to decide and vote via the number of likes, and individuals who got the most number of likes were boosted to be on top of the list, hence, “Most Admirable Bachelors”. A surprise of forty-eight (48) names of incredible young, hot, and lovely gentlemen surfaced, and the girls went gaga.  However, we narrowed down to forty-two as six of the gentlemen did not meet our initial requirements for inclusion in the second elimination. There were others who have chosen to respectfully decline as they wanted to be more private of their personal lives, which we certainly respect. TMA respects personal space and privacy. After the second step, we have finally decided to put on a show, and so the fun began when members started casting their votes and there was even serious campaign in favor of their most favorite ones. But, at the end of the day, the best of the best rises up. The criteria was simple: 20% of the weight for the number of likes and 80% for personal character, intelligence and contribution to Milagros. Finally, the list was narrowed down to 12 Most Admirable Gentlemen of Milagros for the year 2017.

Due to distance, time zone, and availability of everyone for interviewing, these factors have made this writing bit challenging but worth waiting for. My own challenge having to work and write this up could have been a road block to not make this possible but hey, I am finally making it happen. In order for me to get to know these gentlemen better, I started chatting with them, trying to dig deeper and understand their substance, values, and things that make them happy, motivated, and positive person. Physically blessed they are yet we know that a person can be more attractive if they have the substance, that inner glow of a wonderful person that they may innately possess.

Without much further ado, here they are – YOUR CHOSEN ONES – the TMA’s next batch of MOST ADMIRABLE BACHELORS. Oozing with hotness, empowering, inspiring, dreamers, achievers, daring, bold with their dreams, astounding, marvelous, and most of all, admirable.

12. Jose Alex Azuelo Cedillo, 23, Student/Artist    (Sitio Bato, Tinaclipan, Milagros)

Alex was very busy with guesting and performing in different radio and mall tours, concerts and TV show appearances together with his co-members of the Four Dimension (4D) boyband. It was a dream come true for him to perform in front of a big crowd. Tempting a show business life can be but Alex made a stand, choosing between a blooming career and pursuing education as he believes, education is essential to one’s personal growth. He temporarily left his boy band group. He is currently on his first year on his Bachelor of Secondary Education at Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT).

This 2015 Ginoong Pagdangan 4th Runner-Up from Sitio Bato, Tinaclipan, was once a volunteer in TMA Clean-Up activity in Brgy. Tawad cemetery. Alex also worked with me in “Rediscovering Guinluthangan” and I can attest that he is very humble, friendly, fun-loving, and kind-hearted person. Who can ever forget his viral video on social media sites where he was sharing some pure love in Quezon City, he was distributing clothes and blankets to homeless families. He is family oriented and very independent person.

 

11. Cris Odeña Aganan, 31, Business Process Associate  (Sitio Talisay, Calasuche, Milagros)

Cris is such a big photography fan. The photos he snapped were all amazing and visually stimulating. Among his collections of the pretty photoshe snapped himself were that mesmerizing sunset shot from his village in Talisay, Calasuche, one being in “pasil” (sand bar) and the organic ricefield shot he took which was by their house he grew up. With his love of photography, he clicks his camera where he finds serenity, calmness and inner joy.

Cris loves to climb mountains. He climbed Mt. Ulap (Itogon, Benguet), Mt. Daraitan, Mt. Batolusong and Mt. Maynuba (Tanay, Rizal), Mt. Pamitinan and Mt Binacayan (Rodriguez, Rizal), Mt. Maculot (Cuenca, Batangas), Mt. Batulao (Nasugbo, Batangas). His love of nature, adventure and photography is just perfect combination for everything he does. Mountains can be perfect for landscape photography and everything that surrounds it. He also can ensure that he gets his dose of calmness and serenity while doing all of the three. On top of this, Cris advocates love for the mother nature. Everytime he climbs the mountain, he makes sure that he picks up the garbages he found along the trek. He does the same with his garbages while on top of the mountain, camping. Music is another soul of this creative gentleman.

He graduated with honors in Milagros East Central School and Liceo de San Jose in 1998 and 2002, respectively. He successfully completed his BS Computer Science degree from Osmeña Colleges in 2009. He is now working as Business Process Associate in a BPO Company.

Cris is absolutely correct that best images can be captured from nature. Simple, nature lover, and adventurous person is truly admirable.

GDR: What’s your favorite thing about yourself?

COA: Aside from being simple and contented with what I have, my favorite thing about myself is that, I always care and appreciate nature.

10. Jofran Aganan Quinatagcan, 22, Cruise Ship Cabin Steward (Brgy. Magsalangi,Milagros)

Two of his wishes when he was a small boy were to travel the world and to help his family financially. Exactly the same wishes were granted to him because right now he is enjoying his work as a Ship Cabin Steward of Magsaysay Costa Crociere. “I really love my job because aside from seeing the world for free, I get to meet different people,” he said.

Joffran started his studies in Magsalangi Elem School and in 2011 he got his high school diploma from Liceo de San Jose. He took Associate in Marine Engineering from Northern Iloilo Polytechnic State College, Estancia, Iloilo and completed it last 2014.

“He is a family oriented, loves to travel and an independent person. He has a lot of plans for the family that he prefers to be single for now,” shared by his half-sister.

This happy go lucky man always spends time with his family and friends whenever he is off shore. His honesty and perseverance to help his parents and siblings is really admirable.

GDR: What’s your favorite thing about yourself?                                                                     JAQ: Being an independent person.

GDR: Do you have any special talents?

JAQ: Wala po akong talent, kumain lang po (laughs).

GDR: You’re funny and that’s a talent, lol.

JAQ: Kaya gani nakatawa ako san nakita ko an post sa TMA kahuna ko nagadamgo lang ako.

GDR: What talent do you wish you’d been born with?

JAQ: A good rapper (laughs)

GDR: So you can sing pala?

JAQ: Dyos ko po kung alam mo lang guinapamalhas ako dati pag makahuyot microphone.

GDR: If you could only hear one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?

JAQ: “Jesus takes the wheel”

GDR: By the way, are you in a relationship?

JAQ: I’m single.

GDR: Ano ba hinahanap mo sa babae?

JAQ: She must be simple and faithful to me.

           9. Adriene Arcenas Buchacek, 24, Freelancer  (California, USA)

Globetrotter, foodie, and talented are few best words to describe this Czech – Filipino lad, born and raised in United States.  “He travels a lot and knows much about food, can tell never ending stories about all kinds of taste of food from different countries. He can’t forget his experience in the Philippines eating bulad (dried fish) with rice. He always make sure he has stew or soup with his meal as he doesn’t like his food dry. And most of all, he really loves seafoods!” revealed by his travel buddy.

Adriene was an academic scholar at California State University of Fullerton (CSUF) where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts with double major in Communication and Business Marketing. He likes to watch fantasy movies, addicted to fiction books, in fact, he collected all the Harry Potter book series. You’ll love his different piano renditions, so if you are bored just check him out in YouTube and watch how awesome his hands move as he plays piano. But what inspires me more about Adriene is his Filipino attitude. He is very polite, hardworking, family oriented and frugal.

He believes his family should give something back to Milagros which his mom had already started. He was part of the amBAG ideas project and I’m excited that he will be going back to Milagros to personally distribute the bags comes May 2018.

GDR: Would you rather have unlimited money or love?                                                      AAB: Unlimited love because you can find money.

GDR:  What is your special talent?                                                                                                  AAB: I can play piano.

GDR: What talent you wish you would have been born with?                                              AAB: I wish I can dance that well.

GDR: How do you like your eggs cooked?                                                                                  AAB: Scrambled eggs would make my day.

 

     8. John Glenn Vila Danao, 22, Law Student (Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila)

He now lives independently since his parents and brother moved abroad. Being alone is not an issue as it helps him to manage his time, to focus and to be more responsible person.

John Glenn was born and grew up in Manila. He finished his elementary education in San Felipe Neri Parochial School in Mandaluyong. He went to Don Bosco Technical College (Mandaluyong) for his high school and took Political Science in San Sebastian College – Manila.

During his elementary days, he really wanted to be on a spotlight that he tried to audition and did a photoshoot fir a tv program in Kapamilya Network. However, his dad disagreed because he worried that this might affect his studies. He then focused on his favorite sport which was swimming. He represented his school in an inter-school swimming competition and nailed it. This guy is really into sports, aside from swimming, cycling and playing basketball are next to his top list of sport activities.

According to his cousin, “Glenn is a very sweet guy! He manages his family business very well and whenever he is free he would spend time with us. He always motivates his nieces and nephews to do whatever their dreams are.” She revealed also that he wanted to enter the PBB House. “He visits Milagros during summer just to see his Lola Sana,” she added.

He is currently on his second year for the Juris Doctor program at San Sebastian College Recoletos – College of Law. He wants to be successful in his law practice, however, politics is never in his future plan. Another consideration, if he successfully passes the Bar Examination, he will immigrate to Canada, where the whole family is residing now.

This man with tantalizing eyes is admirable because he is a good and responsible son, sweet and caring.

7. Paul Jowen Rosero Blancaver, 26, Senior High School Teacher (Brgy. Narangasan, Milagros)

He believes that sharing knowledge and educating the kids is his passion that he chose the noblest profession. When he passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) in 2011 all he wanted was to start serving his fellow Narangaseños. He was born at Narangasan, in Milagros.

Sir Paul Jowen went to Narangasan Elementary School and Masbate National Comprehensive High School in 2003 and 2007, respectively. He finished his Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education major in English from Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) where he also earned his Master of Arts in Education.

This very down-to-earth and friendly mentor added another feather on his cap when he passed Civil Service Examination for Professional in 2012. Currently, he is teaching in Serafin C. Rosero Memorial High School.
His dedication to impart his ideas to his students, his being cool and respectful teacher is definitely admirable.

GDR: What’s your favorite thing about yourself?                                                                    PRB: I am willing to learn [new] things. I can place myself to other’s shoes.

 

6. Kenneth James Rosello Valenzuel, 23, Hotel Business Centre Service Associate (Brgy. Bacolod, Milagros)

He is gifted with such good looks and captivating smile which will surely capture your heart. Evidently, he got most number of votes (152 likes). This “crush ng bayan” is hopeful that someday his co-Milagreños will see him on TV as an endorser or a commercial model.

Kenneth grew up in Milagros and finished his elementary and secondary education from Milagros West Central School and Liceo De San Jose, respectively. In 2014, he completed his Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Management from Osmeña Colleges and was presented a Leadership Award. After graduation, he worked in different hotels in Cebu and Boracay. Currently, he works in The Peninsula Manila in Makati as Hotel Business Centre Associate.

What makes him admirable? Aside from being “gwapo” and “stylish”, he is always willing to make a difference by involving himself in charity activities. Among them is regularly donating blood at blood banks every three months to save lives. He was also one of the volunteers of TMA’s first ever amBAG project held in Nagurang Island. Kenneth enjoys photography during his spare time and takes great selfies.

GDR   : Do you have any special talent?                                                                                          KJV   : Singing.

GDR  : That’s wonderful! If you could only sing one song for the rest of your life,                      what would it be and why?                                                                                                        KJV   : I would love to sing John Legend’s  “All of Me” because the lyrics sayss                          everything.

GDR   : Are you currently in a relationship status?                                                                    KJV   : I’m single.

GDR   : Are you usually the heart breaker or the heart broken?                                              KJV   : Heart breaker with valid reasons. I don’t keep someone who is a cheater.

GDR   : Has someone ever spread a nasty rumor about you?                                                        KJV   : Nasty? Wala naman so far kay maayo ako na tawo sa tanan.

GDR   : What is something most people don’t know about you?                                              KJV   :  Maka Diyos ako. I go to church almost everyday.

 5. Antonio Tan Romero, 27, Seafarer  (Brgy. Bangad, Milagros)

The 5th spot goes to this gentleman from Barangay Bangad. The youngest in the family of five and currently working as able-bodied seaman of Maersk Line for four years already.

“Toni” as he is fondly called by his family and friends, is also very skilled person. During his high school days in Masbate National Comprehensive High School (MNCHS), he represented Masbate Province and won as champion in “Asexual Propagation Competitions” held in Polangui, Albay and Tabaco City, Albay last 2006 and 2007, respectively. He won also in “Guhit for a Cause – Championship Competition 2015” held in Quezon Memorial Circle, Quezon City.         This Mr. Maritime 2009 first runner-up of University of Cebu Maritime Training Center where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation loves to share chocolates to kids in his compound whenever he is on vacation, “yun lang ang kaya ko for now para mapasaya sila at minsan lang sila makatikim ng chocolates,” he confessed.

Now, he is enjoying his life as a single. “I am starting to love hiking, I realized we have to appreciate every God’s creation here. I keep on doing this to forget what happened with my past relationship,” he said.

GDR : What’s your favorite thing about yourself?                                                                    ATR  : My talents… I can draw and sing. Bunos na la an pagsayaw.

GDR : Astig! You can sing and dance huh.                                                                                  ATR  : You want sample? (sent singing voice clip – Bakit Kung Sino Pa)

GDR : oh that was a nice rendition of yours (laughs)                                                              ATR  : Thanks. Team sawi ako eh.

GDR : Last movie you watched?                                                                                                    ATR  : “The Flowers of War,” I suggest you to watch it.

GDR : What is something most people don’t know about you?                                            ATR  : That I have a sense of humor and golden hands…

GDR : How do you like your eggs cooked?                                                                                ATR  : Half boiled egg, malasado. Amon permi ginakaon ko pag naga gym ako.

4. Brian Vasquez Borja, 30, Bank Relationship Officer (Brgy. Calasuche, Milagros)

Another brave and goal-getter Filipino expat in Doha, Qatar continuously shines in his chosen career. Brian always exceeds the company’s expectations whether in the Philippines or in abroad because of his hard work and determination. Like his present organization’s tag line “we make possible”, he ensures that he will be a quota buster again this year same as he did in the past couple of years.

Undeniably, this be-dimpled charming guy is an achiever. As a matter of fact, he was their class Valedictorian in Calasuche Elementary School in 1999, he was an honor student when he finished high school, and graduated Cum Laude in Osmena College. He earned Bachelor of Science in Commerce Major in Management. Aside from academic excellence, he also is an artist and a genuine young leader. He won in different mural painting, poster, abstract and slogan contests. He effectively served and empowered the youth when he was the SK Chairman in Brgy. Calasuche from 2002 to 2007.

Despite of his hectic schedules in his work, he always finds time to share God’s word by being an active member of Single For Christ -Doha. Right now, Brian is enjoying his job as Relationship Officer in one of the leading banking institutions in Qatar, The Mashreq Bank.

His being bold, career oriented, being congenial person and his faith in God is indeed admirable.

“For those who really don’t know me they say that I am an extrovert but I myself can say that I am an introvert too. Having both characteristics is kind of weird. “- Brian

3. Ace Alvin Mortel Tan, 24, Civil Engineer (Brgy. Poblacion East, Milagros)

Hard work, brilliance, humility and focus, these are important attitudes that made Ace a well-sought Civil Engineer in the Province of Masbate.

Ace finished his grade school at Milagros West Central School and secondary from the Masbate National Comprehensive High School. He was successful in making his way in the world of politics in a very young age. In 2010, the SK Chairmanship in Poblacion East and consequently elected as President of the Municipal SK Federation. In effect, as SK President of the Municipal Federation, he was bound to sit on a position in the Municipal Legislative body as Ex-Officio, represented the young Milagreños as their voice in the council. He faithfully served until 2013.

He graduated from Mapua Institute of Technology last 2014 where he earned his undergraduate degree and successfully passed the board examinations the following year. He was an in-campus volunteer and officer for the Philippine Red Cross.  “He is not kuripot, he is just matipid but very generous and always nanlilibre,” revealed by his sister. “He plans to get his MBA degree very soon,” she added. His sense of patriotism, optimism, creativity and true young leader were the most admirable qualities that Ace Alvin possess.

“No matter what your profession is, don’t forget to at least serve your beloved land..Masbate” -Ace

 

                        2. Arwin Escala Almodal, 31, Health & Safety Engineer Manager                                       Brgy. Jamorawon, Milagros

Second spot goes to this approachable and motivated OFW from Qatar. He is one of the most successful bachelors from our hometown. Beautiful house, luxury car, huge farm, and newly opened businesses are the manifestations that his hard work and perseverance were paid off. In spite of his accomplishments and outpouring blessings, his feet remain on the ground.

Arwin attended Jamorawon Elementary School and Jamorawon National High School. In 2008, he finished his 2 years Practical Nursing from Tojong College in Cebu and worked in Mactan Doctors Hospital for a year. An opportunity came in 2009 when Drydocks World Dubai hired him from the Philippines. Unfortunately, he was not happy with his job’s environment and compensation. He was about to give up but someone encouraged him to take up a course on health and safety. In 2011, he earned his diploma in Safety and Fire Engineering from Central State University of New York – Dubai. Upon graduation he moved to another company and worked as Health and Safety Advisor. And in 2015 he decided to grab the offer of Abu Dhabi Commercial Energy System LLC where he is presently working as Health and Safety Engineer Manager.

This basketball enthusiast has a big heart not only for his family but for Milagreños. Early this year, Arwin and another OFW from Masbate initiated an activity not only to support TMA’s advocacy for equality but to give joy to the people of Jamorawon. He sponsored a pageant for LGBT community. Arwin has always been generous to TMA as everytime we have projects, he would gladly share his blessings with us.

His altruistic and prompt support to the organization, his being cheerful and down-to-earth attitude is absolutely admirable.

“Grabe inaguihan ko sa Dubai, tika-surrender na ako sadto. Inungod-ungod ko na lang pag adal kag sa training. Nagbunga man tanan na sacrifices ko.”  -Arwin

1.Vince Noel Llamazares Lupango, 23, Financial Adviser/ Law Student  (Brgy. Tigbao, Milagros)

Versatile leader, intelligent, caring, handsome and straightforward are Vince’s dominant qualities. No doubt, it is agreable indeed that the top spot for the 2017 edition of TMAs Most Admirable Bachelors is reserved for him. Confettis, please!

Vince was an academic scholar at Far  Eastern University where he had his BS Psychology undergraduate degree. Perhaps, he was the first Milagreño to graduate from this university taking home the Magna Cum Laude honors.

He represented Milagros in 2014 Mr and Miss Rodeo where he placed second runner-up. He is an active member and coordinator for Luzon of Let’s Do It Philippines, a movement for environmental care. He was a co-founder of One Youth Philippines. He is pursuing his law studies a San Beda College of Law.

I really admire his low profile personality, versatility, intelligence and attitude.

“To live up to my credo of letting my light shine and being a blessing to others, by applying my God-given talents and knowledge for the betterment of my fellow youth, our  country as a whole,” – Vince