Wish Come True: Wish FM Debuts on Philippine TV

Wish FM keeps granting one amazing wish after another.

Wish FM’s 26 million Youtube viewers – and counting – will have something new to look forward to starting Monday, March 27, as it launches Wish 107.5 TV on UNTV Life.

DJ Jelly Kiss invites everyone to watch the premiere of Wish 107.5 TV on Monday, March 26, 2016. Screenshot from UNTV Life’s Youtube’s post.

Wish 107.5 TV is the latest innovative project of the Philippines’ fastest-rising radio station Wish 107.5 – which marks the first time that the goings on in an FM radio will be shown on TV.

With the goal of bringing an intelligent alternative to existing television programs, Wish 107.5 TV will undoubtedly bring its heartwarming brand of good music, stellar performances from the country’s freshest and best artists, enjoyable and informative conversations, and most of all, the heartfelt stories of true-to-life wishes granted.

“As long as we’re alive, my wish is Wish1075, you’re number 1 in our hearts.”
Just one of the many heartwarming stories of wishes granted on Wish 107.5. Photo courtesy of Wish 107.5 website.

“Obviously, [right now], they just listen to us as we talk on the radio. But here in Wish 107.5 TV, it’s different – we’ll feature their favorite artists and many more. The It will be a different experience – us DJs will really entertain the viewers,” remarked Wish 107.5 DJ Jelly Kiss in an interview.

Wish 107.5’s talented and beautiful DJs will be hosting Wish 107.5 TV. Photo courtesy of Wish 107.5’s official Facebook Page.

Hosting Wish 107.5 TV are the clever and charming DJs of Wish FM are Princess Leigh, DJ Faye, DJ Jelly Kiss, and DJ Alice, among others.

With just about a year under its belt, Wish 107.5 is home to the country’s very first mobile FM studio – the Wish 107.5 Bus, and the station behind the successful musical and charitable Wish Awards held on January 26 this year.

The Wish 107.5 Bus, the first of its kind in the country, truly is the coolest musical experience. Photo courtesy of Wish 107.5’s official Facebook page

Wish 107.5 TV will feature the radio station’s great selection of programs, such as Wishclusive, Wish Happenings, Wish Updates, and the Wish Lounge, to name a few.

Wish 107.5 TV will debut on UNTV Life starting Monday and will air from Mondays to Fridays, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

 

Reference:

http://www.untvweb.com/videos/fastest-rising-fm-radio-wish-107-5-may-tv-program-na-sa-untv-simula-sa-lunes/

 

In Photos: Music, Awards, and Charity on Wish 107.5’s Wish Awards

One of the Philippines’ newest radio stations made wishes come true last night, as it celebrated an evening full of talented OPM artists, world-class musical performances, and most of all, genuine charity with Wish 107.5‘s first ever Wish Awards.

The event was held at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum on 26 January 2016.

Winners of the awards show were able to donate PhP 100,000.00 each to the charities of their choice. The event benefitted organizations such as World Vision, which assists with the needs and rights of Filipino children, as well as Child Haus, a temporary refuge for children and adults undergoing cancer treatment in the country, to name a few.

Some of the night’s big winners were Yeng Constantino, Jason Dy, Jensen and the Flips, Morisette, Sponge Cola, among others. The night’s biggest winner, The Voice Kids 1st Runner-Up and Total Performer Darren Espanto, won five awards — a total of PhP 500,000.00 worth of donations — in just one amazing night!

For the complete list of winners, visit Wish 107.5’s official website. Follow their official Twitter and Facebook accounts for more photos and fun tidbits about the event.

Total Performer Darren Espanto wins PhP 100,000.00 to his chosen charity as he is awarded the “Wish Young Artist of the Year” award.

“I encourage you to use your talents wisely — and also, for the good of everyone.” – Mr. Larry Henares

A “Darrenatic” raises a poster of Darren Espanto’s face as the artist wins the “Wischclusive Viral Video of the Year” award for his performance of “Chandelier.”

Bright lights in different patterns accompany the goosebumps-inducing music for the evening.

Darren Espanto thanks his supporters as he receives one of his five awards for the evening.

(L-R) Marlo Mortel, Jason Fernandez, Brad Go and Nyoy Volante serenade the crowd with an acoustic medley of 90’s classics.

Darren Espanto poses for a quick snapshot after winning the “Best Wish Cover” award for his song “In Love Ako Sa’yo”

Love was heard in the airwaves as (L-R) Paolo Onesa, Beverly Caimen, Daryl Ong, Morisette, Lea Patricio and Maki Ricafort sang love songs in the evening’s most romantic duets medley.

Morisette and Darren Espanto delivered a powerful rendition of Sia’s Chandelier to the delight and amazement of the crowd.

(L-R) Lea Patricio and Beverly Caimen sang a medley of popular power ballads.

“Wishpers of Love” jock D.J. Faye and Manila Standard Today Senior Entertainment Editor Mr. Isah Red presented the evening’s first round of winners.

Jessica Reynoso and Maki Ricafort belt out Motown classics and R&B hits.

(L-R) Lea Patricio and Beverly Caimen sang a medley of popular power ballads.

Jason Dy’s winning the “Best Wishclusive Performance by a Male Artist” wins PhP 100,000.00 for his charity of choice — the Food for the Hungry Philippines.

 

The Voysing sing wonderful classic tunes to the delight of the young and the young-at-heart.

Morisette and Darren Espanto delivered a powerful rendition of Sia’s Chandelier to the delight and amazement of the crowd.

The driving force behind the charitable endeavors and game-changing ideas of Wish 107.5 — Kuya Daniel Razon!

 

 

 

Living Bigger in NY! Clean-Up Drive Marks UNTV’s 11th Anniversary in NY

As UNTV Life celebrated its 11th year anniversary of introducing true public service in the Philippines, its fans and supporters in New York also celebrated in true UNTV fashion — by bringing public service to the city that never sleeps.

On August 22, 2015, Members of the Church of God International (MCGI) from New York and South Jersey, USA marched to the city’s grand Central Park and volunteered to clean up one of the historic park’s busier areas.

Aug. 22, 2015 – Some of the volunteers of New York and South Jersey pose for a photograph after the clean-up drive in Central Park, New York City to celebrate UNTV’s 11th year of public service around the globe. [Aaron Romero, Photoville International -NY/ UNTV ]

The group has been awake since 2 a.m. to attend MCGI’s weekly Thanksgiving to God celebration. The live event follows the time zone of the Philippines, where the bulk of the members are.

A full day of listening to God’s words and offering songs of praises to the Almighty did not diminish the group’s energy one bit.

In fact, one could say that the early-morning thanksgiving celebration gave them a vibrant jolt of energy; they were still very much awake and excited to help keep one of the world’s most loved parks clean.

And so after traveling from Queens to Manhattan via the trusty subway, the group walked the trails of Central Park and climbed the Belvedere Castle.

MCGI members from New York, USA gather at the world-famous Central Park for a clean-up drive event in celebration of UNTV’s 11th year anniversary. [Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York]

After a short registration, the group was given IDs and broke into smaller groups to cover more of the park’s ground. More than 50 volunteers registered to become part of clean-up drive.

Volunteers fill out registration forms prior to cleaning up Central Park. [Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York]

And as the volunteers started to walk about their different paths, they wore happy smiles to beat the summer heat.

Volunteers happily tread New York’s Central Park during the clean-up drive event in celebration of UNTV’s 11th anniversary. [Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York]

From late noon to a bit over 4 p.m., the dispersed groups traipsed around the city’s beautiful park, on the look out for debris both big and small. Several of the park’s visitors noticed the group’s efforts, and thanked them for their service.

Sis Lyze Bato-bato of New York helps keep the park clean. [Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York]

Brethren from the combined locales of New York and South Jersey tread the historic Central Park with the goal of keeping it clean. [Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York]

Journeying to clean up one of the world’s biggest parks. [Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York]

Sis Mabel Cortez of New York Locale smiles as she walks back to the rendezvous point. Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York]

A quick snapshot to remember the moment by, with New York’s skyline as a background. [Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York]

After an afternoon of cruising the Central Park, the volunteers donning the white “UNTV Live Bigger” shirts met once more at Belvedere Park to dispose of their garbage collections properly.

Volunteers assemble the spoils of the clean-up drive — garbage bags filled with debris from Central Park. [Aaron Romero, Photoville International – New York / UNTV]

After a day spent spiritually and philanthropically, the MCGI volunteers from New York and South Jersey left the Central Park with contented smiles and grateful hearts.

From the fans and supporters of UNTV Life in New York and New Jersey, congratulations to UNTV’s 11 years of unparalleled, game-changing public service!

Songs for Heroes 2: To Die for Thee – A Must-Hear, Must-See for Charity

Manila, Philippines – Champions of charity and advocates of peace will once more be beautifully serenaded and be moved to tears by the country’s top performers and artists on the upcoming “Songs for Heroes 2: To Die for Thee” concert.

The “Songs for Heroes 2” concert is the second installment to the first and highly successful “Songs for Heroes” event.

Jonalyn Viray sings with the AFP and PNP chorale for the families of the fallen 44 during the first Songs for Heroes Benefit Concert at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena, Pasay City, Philippines on 19 March 2015. [Maia Garciano, Photoville International – Philippines]

The first “Songs for Heroes” benefit concert held on March 19, 2015, was able to give more than 6 million pesos worth of donations to the families and loved ones of the PNP Special Action Force (SAF) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) who bravely fought during the Mamasapano operation.

Part two of the concert series promises to be bigger and better than its successful charitable predecessor.

It Started with a Tweet

The idea behind the successful “Songs for Heroes” concert came from a simple tweet from Bro. Eliseo Soriano, international evangelist and host of the popular religious program, Ang Dating Daan.

The preacher, who actively answers spiritual queries in person and on Twitter, recognized the need to build peace and extend a helping hand to the Brave 44’s families. He tweeted his invitation to his 76k and growing number of Twitter followers.

The tweet that started it all — International evangelist Bro. Eliseo Soriano launches a charity concert on Twitter. [Screengrabbed from Twitter]

Taking the cue was UNTV-BMPI CEO Kuya Daniel Razon. The hard-hitting journalist and dedicated public servant swiftly acted to make sure that the charity concert became a reality. Kuya Daniel, together with UNTV 37, the nation’s public service network, organized the first Songs for Heroes event.

Filled to the brim – The Mall of Asia Stadium was packed with supporters of the first “Songs For Heroes” Concert. [Rovic Balunsay, Photoville International – Philippines]

Bro. Eli also promised to give the initial 1 million-peso donation for the charity concert. And he delivered – donating 1 million pesos for the benefit of the families, as well as giving them each 10,000.00 in cash during the first concert.

The children of the Fallen 44 also received full educational scholarships from La Verdad Christian College, the free college built by Bro. Eli, Bro. Daniel Razon and the Members Church of God International (MCGI).

It Continued with a Promise

Kuya Daniel Razon gives his thank you speech as Bro. Eliseo Soriano looks on live web streaming, during the first Songs for Heroes concert held at the Mall of Asia Stadium on March 19, 2015. [Rovic Balunsay, Photoville International – Philippines]

“I promise this will not be the last. With God’s help, I will make a way, God willing. We want to show you that we are advocates of peace – let us maintain peace in our beloved country,” remarked Bro. Eli to the families of the SAF- 44, during the first Songs for Heroes concert.

And Bro. Eli kept his promise. In less than 4 months’ time, a proud list of the country’s top performers will take the stage to promote peace, bring joy and fond memories, and celebrate the bravery of the Gallant 44.

Must-See, Must-Hear

The Songs for Heroes 2: To Die for Thee will not only move us to tears via music, but through dance and acting, as well.

Members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) practice their dance routine for the upcoming Songs for Heroes 2 Concert. [Cyron Monton, Photoville International – Philippines]

Performers such as the PNP and AFP singers will perform emotionally charged songs together with the country’s top artists, such as Kuh Ledesma, Jed Madela, Jenine Desiderio, Wency Cornejo, Jeffrey Hidalgo, Shanne Velasco, Sam Shoaf, Fifth Gen, and Asia’s Got Talent’s very own Gerphil Flores and Gwyneth Dorado.

The ADD Chorale, which is composed of 200 talented men and women singers, as well as the Teatro Kristiano of MCGI, will also sing, dance, and act during the “Songs for Heroes 2” concert.

As an added visual delight, indie film director Pedring Lopez has created playback videos – short films that will accompany each song during the concert, which aims to integrate the soldiers’ photos and memories with inspiring messages.

May 13, 2015 – Direk Floy Quintos meets with UNTV 37 executives and Songs for Heroes organizers at the UNTV Broadcast Center. [Rovic Balunsay, Photoville International – Philippines]

Award-winning writer and director Floy Quintos is at the helm of the whole project, aiming to showcase the importance uniting the AFP and PNP, and their continuous fight for the peace of our nation.

The “Songs for Heroes 2: To Die for Thee” benefit concert will be held on June 30, 2015 at the SM Mall of Asia Stadium.

References:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oSAM7MrDcS4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8hvOilHXyk

ANSWERED PRAYERS AND PROSPEROUS TRAVELS: MCGI’S INTERNATIONAL THANKSGIVING TO GOD IN BRAZIL, 2015 – PART 2

International Thanksgiving to God – Day One

April 3, 2015 — A little after 3:00 a.m., we were knocking on Bro. Aaron Romero’s hotel door, ready, willing — and with God’s help and mercy — able, to go to where the rest of the brethren are.

It was the first day of the International Thanksgiving to God (ITG) celebration of the Members Church of God International (MCGI) in Brazil, and even without a hint of caffeine, we were already wide awake.

The sky was still in its proud ebony state as we traveled our five-minute drive from our hotel to the venue. From inside Bro. Aaron’s rented car, I saw the familiar convention grounds, already lit up — a refreshing scene both for the eyes and the soul.

Chorale members were already starting to gather near the stage, wearing their pristine white and black uniforms, topped with ties and scarves. Pieces of notes and tunes escaped from the ADD Band and Orchestra’s instruments, and hung in the air for a few seconds before they fluttered away.

Chorale members in Brazil ready themselves for the ITG’s first day. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

At about 4 a.m., chorale members boarded the stage whilst Teatro Kristiano members in their flowing blue and white uniforms took their spots just underneath the stage, directly in front of the brethren.

The combined force of the chorale and teatro members rendered a lively opening number — a song of praise to God. And even before daybreak, loud cheers and claps emanated from the convention grounds.

The MCGI chorale and Teatro Kristiano render an energetic opening number early in the morning. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015].

The chorale then led the brethren in Brazil and in various remote points all over the world in the congregational singing — an MCGI staple in all of its gatherings.

From upbeat to solemn songs, MCGI’s international music ministry chorale members led the brethren in the congregational singing. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015].

And just as the brethren sang hymn no. 50 and 1 in three beautiful languages — Filipino, Spanish and Portuguese, respectively — the regal sun began to beam its rays on the brethren, casting a golden glow on everyone.

The prayer, which was also translated into three languages, was uttered solemnly. Since last year’s induction to the brotherhood, the trilingual hymns and prayers were quick to become dear to my heart.

After another round of joyful praises to God led by the chorale and teatro members, Bro. Daniel Razon meekly boarded the stage with his head bowed down, to teach the brethren the first part of the ITG topic — one of the main highlights of the event.

After the solemn opening prayer, the Music Ministry Chorale and the Teatro Krisitano members led the brethren in a joyful song of praise. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

Bro. Daniel started the timely and interesting topic on the great value and the deeper biblical meaning of serving God. With Portuguese and Spanish translators on the stage with him, he discussed the topic with clarity and patience.

He would speak his point in Filipino, wait for it to be translated in Spanish then Portuguese, and continue with his train of thought. Now this was not an easy task — without focus and patience, there’s a big possibility that you’ll lose your train of thought.

Bro. Daniel Razon delivered the first part of the topic in Brazil for MCGI’s first day of the International Thanksgiving to God celebration.

But Bro. Daniel carefully spoke and listened — making sure that his message came clear to all those in attendance who came from various parts of the world. He would pause and think, and take the time to ask everyone if they understood the important topic being discussed.

And based on the cheers, the smiles, the agreeing nods, coupled with the hands and flags shooting in the air, it was clear that the answer was a resounding yes.

Cheers for a well understood topic. [Percy Caroro, PVI PH. April 2015].

At noontime, a short break was announced for the brethren to eat and rest for a bit. In the Philippines, where the bulk of the members are, it was already midnight.

Instrumental music of fast-beat Church songs were playing in the background while The little Teatro Kristiano from the day before started to dance one song to another. Before long, the brethren started to take notice — and he was being broadcasted in all MCGI remote points across the globe!

The adorable Brazilian Teatro Kristiano danced one Church song to another by heart, while the brethren in Brazil and in all parts of the world watched with joy. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015].

The adorable Brazilian Teatro Kristiano danced one Church song to another by heart, proving that he might be young at age, but his dedication to his craft is steadfast and well beyond his years.

Brethren from different countries who were visibly delighted by this little irmāo‘s dancing abilities and innate cuteness, whipped out their smartphones, videocams and cameras to record him in action.

They also put chocolate bars and dollar bills right next to him. But this did not sidetrack him. He didn’t even glance at the sweets nor the money. He kept on dancing. He kept on with his duties.

And I stood there, basking in the humbling event unfolding before my eyes with a huge grin plastered on my face.

Bro. Rodel Mangiliman, one of the Helpers of the Ministry, then came on the microphone and announced that the rest of the brethren should join the child in praising God through dance — and that’s exactly what ensued, to the delight of everyone.

Believers from different nations sing songs of praises to God during day one of the International Thanksgiving to God celebration of MCGI in Brazil. [Aaron Romero, PVI NY. April 2015].

And I will never forget that the whole congregation, not just those gathered in Brazil but in other places as well, was united in praising God — led by an innocent little boy — who performed his duties without hesitation.

Children truly are of heaven, I thought with a smile, while singing and dancing with the rest of the grateful ones.

A beautiful Brazilian Kawan ng Cordero (KNC) member smiles adorably for the camera. [Diane Marcaida, PVI UAE. April 2015].

Then came Bro. Eli Soriano

Bro. Eli arrives on stage with a smile on his lips . [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015].

Walking down the stage, with a smile on his lips and his Bible in hand, the crowd in Brazil almost immediately stood up and cheered simultaneously, as if a zealous orchestra played beautiful symphony all at the same time at the first sight of their loving conductor.

A few of the brethren from Singapore and North America weren’t able to contain their excitement upon seeing Bro. Eli again — some of them, for several years, while others, for almost exactly a year. They stood up and crowded near the stage, taking photos of Bro. Eli.

With a smile, he asked the brethren to sit down so that the important part of the festivities — the studying of God’s words — may commence. With happy faces, the brethren did as they were told, and readied their Bibles and notebooks for the discussion.

During the discussion of the topic’s final leg, the Overall Servant of the Members Church of God International (MCGI) made sure that the importance of what it is truly like to be a preacher of God’s words were understood by all.

He patiently discussed a biblical detail in Filipino, then in English, Spanish and Portuguese. He listened intently as translators spoke to the Spanish and Portuguese brethren, making sure that the translations are accurate. He spoke and listened with love for the word of God, and for those who are intently listening to it from all across the globe.

As Bro. Eli discussed during the second part of the topic, the true servants of God who preach His words are ordained by God to teach the brethren how to render their service — all according to what the Bible dictates.

“We do not just serve God. We serve God in an exact manner,” added Bro. Eli as he read 1 Corinthians 9:26.

Bro. Eli speaks in Portuguese to further elaborate on a biblical point during MCGI’s International Thanksgiving to God celebration in Brazil. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015].

 The basis is God’s holy words, and the lives of those whom God chose to preach them as stated in the Bible.

“The true apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ are not dependent on the members for what they are going to eat and what they are going to dress,” said Bro. Eli to the congregants.

And Bro. Eli lives by this belief in his own life — working from daybreak to nightfall to finance the growing number of coordinating centers and broadcasts in South and Central America, he has put up his own businesses with his own two hands, with the help and mercy of God.

Bro. Eli talks in Spanish for the brethren hailing from Central and Latin America. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015].

Today, he has purchased a bigger coordinating center named after the Church in the city of Sao Paolo, for the ever-growing number of congregants in the area. Another bigger coordinating center in Curitiba was also purchased, without members being asked for any financial support whatsoever.

His selflessness is something that’s known not only to the brethren, but also to those outside the Church. The many charities that he and Bro. Daniel Razon have started cater to people of all ages, nationalities, and beliefs. Most of the charitable institutions spearheaded by Bro. Eli and Bro. Daniel remain in his land of origin, the Philippines.

Bro. Eli looks on to the brethren in the Philippines on the LCD monitor in Brazil, as he tells them how much he misses his native land. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015].

It is quite evident that the Philippines remains to be a very special place for Bro. Eli — during the event, he recalls walking along the aisles of the Ang Dating Daan Convention Center in Apalit, Pampanga, where he used to conduct his teachings to the brotherhood in person almost a decade ago.

Pointing at the screen where he used to tread as he spoke God’s words, he uttered with a wistful smile, “I miss the Philippines.” The joyful brethren in Brazil waved hello to the brethren in the Philippines through the wonders of modern technology.

Bro. Eli had the brethren in the Philippines deep in his heart and mind — he wanted to make sure that the brethren in the Philippines had enough time to rest so that they can listen and understand the trilingual topic being discussed, not just for the event’s first day, but for the rest of the event’s proceedings.

Bro. Eli keeps an eye on the time, out of his love and concern for the brethren in the Philippines. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015].

And so the first day of the International Thanksgiving to God officially concluded to give way for the brethren in the Philippines and nearby countries to rest their eyes and gather strength for the next day.

But the day was not over for Bro. Eli. It was still quite young for the likes of Bro. Eli, to be honest.

He called for a consultation session for the brethren in Brazil to ask their questions of faith. And Bro. Eli, being the man that he was, asked for his table and chair to be brought down from the stage and be transferred to where the brethren are — so he can listen to their concerns more clearly.

Bro. Eli sits right in front of the brethren to better listen to their concerns and problems. [Aaron Romero, PVI NY. April 2015].

A sister from Brazil asks her question to Bro. Eli during the consultation session served by Bro. Eli Soriano. [Derrick Manila, PVI Canada. April 2015].

At nighttime, when questions of the brethren from South America have been answered with biblical bases, Bro. Eli Soriano bade farewell to the congregants so that they could rest for another round of biblical studies on the following day.

[To be continued…]

Answered Prayers and Prosperous Travels: MCGI’s International Thanksgiving to God in Brazil, 2015 – Part 1

Sitting inside the plane an hour before I officially entered my reality that is New York City, without so much as a provocation or any form of observable warning, I started crying. Hard.

At the corner of my eye, I saw the Spanish-speaking lady near me slowly lower her copy of a guidebook to New York and eye me with a mixture of worry and confusion. I couldn’t blame her — one minute, I was taking photos of the beautiful, luminous blue moon hovering on the ebony sky, the next, I was bawling.

If I could just explain to the lady that my tears were brought upon by a realization hitting me, and the old familiar feeling at the pit of my stomach welling up, uncontrollably, making me see how unbelievably lucky I was.

Though I was undoubtedly nothing short of being penniless and undeniably unworthy, Someone way beyond the beautiful moon and the vast skies made it possible for me to travel to Brazil for yet another time.

And for someone as small as I am, it was nothing but a modern-day miracle.

Luminous Luna. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015.]

The feeling of gratitude and elation engulfed me, and before I knew it, my eyes quickly turned warm, and hot tears fell down my cheeks and chin, fogging up my glasses.

I was weeping and the only thing I could do was disguise my sobs into pretend yawns.

She was still looking at me with concern, and so I gave her a small smile to assure her that I was alright, as I wiped away my tears. She gave me a small smile back, and cocked her head to one side — almost as if she was trying to see what was going on in my head.

Señora, I thought to myself, I wish that you really could read minds because I would love to let you in on my thoughts and have you see the vivid, moving pictures of one of the best memories of my entire twenty-something years of existence.

The Journey Begins

March 31, 2015 – At 3:45 in the afternoon, my companions and I temporarily abandoned the lively mess of luggage, strollers and bags parked in our small kitchen/dining nook and quietly piled in our small bedroom.

The Church’s solemn hymn no. 50 came on and a gentle hush fell over the four of us. Silently singing, with hopeful hearts, we readied ourselves and sang hymn no. 1 – a wonderful prelude to a prayer that we all had to keep us safe on a journey to bring us to our heart’s desires.

Armed with a prayer and heightened enthusiasm, we went through the usual traveling motions with obvious joy, and eventually, braved the skies and transferred from one airplane to another.

Airport conversations. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

A review. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

Digital flowers. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

Peek. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

At this point, I welcomed the allure of resting my tired eyes for a few hours of sleep.

Daybreak came and my eyes fell downward to admire the beauty of Chile. Snow powdered chocolate mountains were immediately below us, with ridges that rose and fell beautifully, as if a graceful symphony for the eyes.

Rocky cliffs. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

The mountains cascaded to patches of flat land, forming an earth-colored quilt, laid out to perpetually spread warmth. A few thousand miles more, we were finally able to see familiar territory.

Finally, Brazil.

Familiar ground. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

I uttered a small thank You to the Almighty for keeping us safe after almost a day of traveling and for giving me the opportunity to return to where I left a big chunk of my heart a year ago — beautiful Brazil.

The airport was filled with friendly faces, as delegates from USA and Canada, as well as several brethren residing in South America, welcomed us at the terminal. Awaiting our respective rides to transport us to our accommodation houses and hotels, we sat around and tried to control the palpable excitement.

A Welcome Surprise

On the eve of April 1, 2015, instead of going straight to our hotel, we were given the chance to see the venue where the International Thanksgiving to God celebration of the Members Church of God International (MCGI) will be held.

Needless to say, this was a very welcome surprise.

At around 8 p.m., a mixture of Filipino and foreign brethren were still busy helping one another in fixing tents, arranging chairs, and making final arrangements before the big event.

And after a day of airplane food, I devoured a plate of a home cooked meal prepared with love by our dear Bro. Eli Soriano.

Cooked and eaten with love. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

After a few hours of meeting and greeting brethren of various nationalities, we were transported to our hotel rooms to rest.

With smiles on our tired faces, we slept for the night.

The Lord’s Supper

We arrived at the venue at noontime, giving us enough time to meet with our respective groups in the Church and prepare for the three-day event, as well as the Lord’s Supper.

Chorale members from different countries met and practiced their songs, while the ever energetic Teatro Kristiano members, the Christian dance troupe of the Church, practiced their choreography nearby.

Warming up. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

Meanwhile, an adorable Brazilian Teatro Kristiano member practiced his steps alone. Not only did he know the steps by heart, his determination and desire to perform his duties caught my attention.

Unfazed by the passers-by, the young Teatro Kristiano prodigy kept on with his choreography. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

Inspirational. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

A few moments later, announcements came on in three languages — Filipino, Spanish and Portuguese, beckoning the brethren to assemble in the main area because the Lord’s Supper was about to take place.

To signal the start of the gathering, the Teatro Kristiano members of South America took the stage and performed a lively dance number to God and the brethren.

The small Brazilian dancer, now dressed in all white, danced with his fellow Teatro Kristiano brothers and sisters, to the delight of audiences.

In my mind, I thanked God for this boy and his parents — I thanked God for their dedication and effort. I thanked God for the humbling inspiration.

The performance of one’s duties. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

The brethren then sang trilingual songs of praise to God, often pausing to clap their hands after a song has ended, to show their appreciation for such hymns that give joy as well as spiritual reminders.

The opening prayer was rendered in three languages, and was then succeeded by a very memorable topic. Simultaneously, the Filipino-based topic was translated to Portuguese and Spanish.

Bro. Daniel Razon and Bro. Eli Soriano, the Church’s Overall Servants, discussed the topic to the brotherhood — making sure to cover each point with care, always backed up by biblical verses.

The Overall Servants discussed the deeper meaning of the biblical event of Christ’s washing the feet of the apostles, and how it relates to Christians in today’s dispensation.

One of the more important parts of the topic was the great sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ on the cross, and how it was truly “the most important part of the history of humanity.”

Taking down notes. [Pol Arellano, PVI NY. April 2015]

Answers to questions such as why Christians do not give offerings during the commemoration of the Lord’s Supper, as well as what the great effect of Christ’s being nailed on the cross was to mankind were biblically expounded.

The brethren need not wonder if the topic was clearly understood by all — joyful cheering and clapping can be heard almost at the same time, from the Filipino, Spanish and Portuguese delegates in attendance.

And as the night deepened, and the topic came to a conclusion, we once more knelt in prayer to the Almighty Father whose mercy and love were made all the more apparent once the God-given topic was concluded.

A few hours more and the first day of the International Thanksgiving was about to begin. And with a prayer in my heart and anticipation in my mind, I closed my eyes for a few hours’ rest.

[To be continued…]

Bro. Eli Soriano Tweets for Peace: #Noynoyparin Campaign Continues

New York, USA — Just before Filipino televangelist Bro. Eliseo Soriano finished discussing a biblical topic to the multitude of members of the Church of God International, he exhibited his desire to fight fire with peace — by blogging about it.

On his newest blog entitled “Backing Up the President by Being Peaceful”, Bro. Soriano continues with his campaign to back-up the President of the Philippines by calling for peace in his land of origin.

Bro. Eliseo Soriano’s newest blog — Backing Up the President by Being Peaceful, published on http://www.controversyextraordinary.com.

The blog was debuted to Church congregants in six of the seven continents, on their regular Thanksgiving to God event on Saturday, February 21, 2015.

On his blog, Bro. Soriano discussed how President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III took his rightful seat in office, listed some of his major accomplishments for the country — and in true Bro. Soriano fashion–  listed biblical bases for his sound arguments.

Stressing on the importance of peace, Bro. Eli called for his fellow Filipinos to focus on banding together as brothers, instead of calling for the President’s resignation, especially during times of crises.

“The fate of the gallant SAF44 who died in line of duty was not the fault of the President! Instead of calling for his resignation, let us rally behind him in helping these fallen heroes,” blogged the Filipino televangelist.

An advocate of peace, Bro. Eli Soriano started a five-day, possible record-breaking socio-political trending topic in Philippine’s Twitterverse by coining the hashtag #Noynoyparin — a campaign to support the president amidst calls for his resignation.

The hashtag was supported by thousands upon thousands of Twitter users not just in the Philippines, but in various countries as well. The campaign was published on several local news outfits and blog sites.

Not only did Bro. Soriano start the campaign for peace, he will also spearhead a charity concert for the benefit of the fallen 44’s families and loved ones. Starting the bid of 1 milliion PHP, he called on government officials and concerned citizens to extend a helping hand.

To bring the charity ball into a roaring start, MCGI will donate 1 million PHP to the fallen 44’s families.

His initial tweet that started the peaceful movement has been retweeted by more than 1,400 times. Bro. Soriano has 72,000 Twitter followers as of writing time.

The tweet that started it all — Bro. Eli’s first tweet about supporting President PNOY on Twitter.

The Faces of Love on FM: Dear Kuya Talks Love for All Seasons

For two years now, Kuya Daniel Razon has been sharing love via the airwaves on Dear Kuya, a two-hour radio program on UNTV’s Radio La Verdad 1350. Dear Kuya has the good goal of bringing the glory of radio back by tackling interesting and timely topics on air, paired with an active interaction with its listeners, and an abundant peppering of good music.

And for two years and going strong, the program is doing just that. Kuya Daniel Razon and Dear Kuya resident biblical advisor Bro. Eliseo Soriano help give light to letter-senders’ dilemmas of the heart with advice guided by the Holy Scriptures.

Here are a few of Dear Kuya’s tweets showcasing the many faces of love from the show’s official Twitter account:

From contemplating courtship…

“Let us not be reckless, let us not rush into things.” – Kuya @Daniel Razon

“The things that we worked hard to get — those are important things.” – @BroEliSoriano
Bro. Eli on working hard for something.

To the love of sweethearts…

“In our group, even before they start living as husband and wife, they already have words of God to follow.”
Romance guided by the Bible!

“The point of agreement truly is the word of God.” – Kuya @DanielRazon

To the love of married couples…

“God wants marriage to be preserved. God doesn’t want the union of married couples to be destroyed.” – @BroEliSoriano
#DearKuya

“The Bible says, ‘Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.'” – @BroEliSoriano #LoveAdvice by #BroEli on #DearKuya

Love compensates our shortcomings. “At the point when we have problems, at the point when we have shortcomings, that’s when love will enter.”

To May-December romances…

The solution: “Fear of God. If a younger and older partner fear God, they will remain faithful to each other.” – #BroEli

To the love of parents and children…

“The love of one’s parents bring blessings. This is the first commandment with a promise.” Eph. 6:1

“It’s wrong to always be having fun and being carefree. Balagtas said, ‘He who grew up in pleasures is usually wanting. In sense, in reflection, in judgment lacking;'” – @BroEliSoriano

  To the love of others…

 To the love of our own lives and our work…

 To the love of living life with the Almighty…

“It is such a beautiful thing for a person to learn to have fear of the Lord.” – Kuya @DanielRazon

“Our lives shall be lived in faith. We walk in faith, not by sight.” – @BroEliSoriano #BroEli on living life. #DearKuya

“It is always better for us to be guided by much knowledge — knowledge that comes from the Bible.” – Kuya Daniel #DearKuya #KuyaDaniel

“What must be maintained, what must not be lacking is love, the fear of God — because these will fix everything.” Kuya Daniel #DearKuya

Read the Bible especially in moments when you feel lonely. There is a joy that you will acquire from reading the Holy Scriptures. #DearKuya #DanielRazon

“If you are patiently enduring, you will have hope. There is hope in endurance.” – @BroEliSoriano

More of the biblical aspects of the many faces of love on Dear Kuya, which airs Mondays through Fridays on UNTV Radio La Verdad from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. PHT. Listeners abroad may stream the radio program online via http://www.untvradio.com/.

Ang Dating Daan’s 34th Anniversary in New York: A Celebration of Good Works in the Big Apple

New York, USA — The New York viewers and supporters of the Philippines’ longest-running and multi-awarded religious program Ang Dating Daan (The Old Path) celebrated the program’s 34th year anniversary with good works along with the rest of the world.

One with the anniversary’s theme “Shaping a Nation Zealous of Good Works,” the members of the Church of God International of New York and New Jersey set off to clean one of the biggest parks in New York — the popular Central Park in Manhattan.

ADD 34th Anniversary Public Service in New York

At 9 o’ clock in the morning, the volunteers braved the chilly low temperatures of early fall in New York to get to Central Park’s Belvedere Castle, for registration and documentation.

Supporters of religious program’s Ang Dating Daan volunteered to clean New York’s Central Park in celebration of Ang Dating Daan’s 34th Anniversary on Oct. 30, 2014. (Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York).

After filling out the necessary paper work, the volunteers walked the expanse of Central Park, with blue latex gloves and plastic bags in tow, helping to keep one of the most beloved parks in the city clean.

Walking around New York’s Central Park. (Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York).

Youth ministry members of the Members Church of God International (MCGI) in New York led the volunteers in cleaning up Central Park for ADD’s 34th anniversary celebration (Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York).

A volunteer walks along one of Central Park’s many roads during MCGI’s clean-up drive campaign. (Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York).

Service with a smile. (Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York).

As the mid-afternoon sun rose higher, the spirits of the volunteers soared as well, walking for blocks and roaming around to pick up trash and disposing of them properly.

After walking around Central Park for most of the day, the more or less forty volunteers parked their plastic bags in the proper receptacles and made their way back to Queens to make early preparations for another event — a worldwide event from which souls of people all over the world will benefit.

Worldwide Bible Exposition in the Big Apple

As guests in the Philippines trooped to the Smart-Araneta Coliseum for the Ang Dating Daan 34th Anniversary Worldwide Bible Exposition held on Oct. 30, 2014 at four in the afternoon, the MCGI Coordinating Center in Queens, NY welcomed guests and brethren as early as four in the morning.

Not too early for spiritual bliss. (Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York).

With bright, excited smiles, the event’s participants made their way inside the coordinating center to find their seats.

Meanwhile, some of the brethren were busy preparing breakfast for the visitors and brethren alike: brewed coffee, fresh fruit salad, bagels and other breakfast staples were served for free — an MCGI trademark.

The event started off with a beautiful musical production by the MCGI-produced A Song of Praise (ASOP) Music Festival finalists, wherein a medley of praise songs were rendered to the delight of those in Smart-Araneta Coliseum, and in various parts of the world.

Immediately after, a video of Ang Dating Daan’s humble beginnings were shown on the screen, as introduced by hosts Lyn Perez, Annie Rentoy and Jun Soriao. The video featured the start of Ang Dating Daan’s broadcast — how it just started with three people: Bro. Eli Soriano, Bro. Daniel Razon and Sis Luz Cruz.

Brethren from New York watch a video of Ang Dating Daan’s humble beginnings during the Worldwide Bible Exposition on Oct. 30, 2014. (Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York).

Fast forward to Ang Dating Daan’s broadcast in today’s time. More than three decades have passed and Ang Dating Daan is now regarded as the longest-running religious program in the country, and is now translated in various languages such as Japanese, Chinese, English, Spanish and Portuguese, to name a few.

Testimonials of brethren of different races surfaced on the screen, one of which is a Spanish-speaking brother from Central America, and was to the delight of a Spanish brother based in New York who attended the event.

Hno. Marcelo of New York smiles after hearing a Spanish-worded testimonial from Central America. (Pol Arellano, Photoville New York).

After the informative video, the Church’s Music Ministry and Teatro Kristiano members presented a lively and vibrant praise song and dance number. This was immediately followed by the congregational singing and the solemn opening prayer, a staple in all of MCGI’s major events.

Vice-Presiding Minister to MCGI Bro. Daniel Razon made his way to the Smart-Araneta’s center stage to greet everyone who came. The guests in New York listened on as he thanked the many guests who graced the momentous occasion.

And when Bro. Daniel finally introduced the man behind Ang Dating Daan, the hoots and cheers of those in Araneta were undeniable — which was the same case in New York.

Happily listening. (Pol Arellano, Photoville International – New York).

Bro. Eliseo Soriano surfaced on screens the world over, greeting everyone who came to  participate in the spiritual event. “We are celebrating the 34th anniversary of this program. Gracias a Dios! Salamat sa Dios!,” remarked Bro. Soriano.

After a brief opening statement from the international preacher, Bro. Soriano immediately went on to the much-awaited Question and Answer portion of the event.

Bro. Eli answered questions from the main venue itself and from different parts of the Philippines and abroad. And as always, his informative, truthful and oftentimes interestingly entertaining answers are based on the Bible.

Questions ranging from what were included in the Book of Life, what the mark of a person who’s about to die was, to when does a day start according to the Bible, and much more were raised and answered,  all with sound biblical bases.

On that evening, Bro. Soriano even answered a Spanish-speaking guest’s question in Bogota, Colombia in near-flawless Spanish.

As the night progressed in the Philippines and as the sun rose higher in New York, more questions from different parts of the world emerged and were successfully answered. Bro. Soriano tried to answer as much questions as possible, to serve and enlighten more people in one night of spiritual reckoning.

A little before eleven o’clock in the morning in the USA, Bro. Eli invited everyone to join in the event’s closing prayer.

“A good evening to all who attended, to all brethren in the whole world!,” remarked Bro. Eliseo Soriano as the special Worldwide Bible Exposition in celebration of Ang Dating Daan’s 34th anniversary came to a blissful close.

An International Sentiment: Sofitel PH Receives Ire from UNTV’s Worldwide Supporters

Sofitel, a hotel chain in the Philippines, is at the receiving end of a massive online barrage of sentiments for removing UNTV 37, the country’s public service network from it’s program listing.

And though this act of media discrimination happened solely in the Philippines, UNTV’s supporters all across the globe have tweeted their demand for Sofitel’s management to explain the reason behind them doing so.

They also demand a public apology for blatant media discrimination against the public service channel.

Without word from the Sofitel camp, UNTV’s supporters from the Philippines and abroad tweeted their sentiment and frustration to the hotel chain.

From Asia to Africa and points in between, supporters of the #BoycottSofitelPH,  #NotoSofitel and now #BoycottSofitelPHDay3 and #NotoSofitelDay3, respectively, have dominated the Twittersphere, trending for three days straight – since the campaign started.

Katulong ng Pangangasiwa (Helper of the Ministry) assigned to the Europe and Africa divisions Bro. Sonny Catan holds up a sign featuring his support of the boycott.

Jit Plastina shows his support all the way from Peru.

Alain Jude Yamashita of Japan tweets his support of the boycott against Sofitel.

Cynthia Brul tweets of the many countries of Europe that have supporters of the boycott against Sofitel.

“The heat in the middle east continues, and so does the fight against the discrimination of Sofitel,” tweets Anton Tolentino, a supporter of the cause from the Middle East.

An emoji-filled tweet of support from Aileen Ravalo of Perth, Australia.

Bro. Ramon Bernardo, one of the KNPs in South America, is part of the campaign against media discrimination.

From Fresh Meadows, New York, Maan Romero shows her support.

Filipinos and Africa natives unite to show their sentiments towards Sofitel.

Even adorable kids from Brazil support the boycott towards Sofitel.

Twitter user @ArchRenslab shows his support from Italy.

Another boycotter from Brazil, Joyce Raggio takes to Facebook her frustration of Sofitel.

Karol Klein, a boycotter from Brazil, lets Sofitel know her thoughts.

Tamy Oliveira, a boycotter from South America tweets her support.

Oyer Sausa of Liberia Africa tweets his support of UNTV.

From Liberia,

Odette Nano Benico of Dallas Texas is against discrimination and shows her support for UNTV.

Reigne Guerrero of Winnipeg, Canada supports UNTV and says no to discrimination and to Sofitel.

Apparently, UNTV is the only local channel to have been intentionally removed by the hotel chain from its programming.

After days of trending on Twitter, Sofitel finally made its statement with regards to the removal of UNTV on their hotel chain’s program list. According to Sofitel’s statement on Twitter, which reads:

Bonjour! In line with the ongoing campaign to boycott Sofitel Manila, we would like to share with you all the official statement of the management: “We do not discriminate against any local or international broadcasting television channel. While we supply several television channels for our guests, the channels we air in the hotel are system-limited, and regularly changed based on several factors, including guest feedback and demand. We are happy to hear the public’s concerns, and will consider to re-instate the UNTV Channel if this is a request from our hotel guests”.

The statement did not bid well with the supporters, and was tagged as arrogant and illogical.  Instead of appeasing the public, Sofitel’s statement gained more of the people’s ire.

It’s not system limited, it’s “System-Manipulated”! #NoToSofitelDay3 #BoycottSofitelPHDay3 – @heymrbeardman 

CENTENNIAL VISITORS. UNTV removed from SOFITEL remote controls. Bcz Bro Eli is there. U don’t like the truth? #NotoSofitel #BoycottSofitelPH – @kotawinters

Don’t try to sugar-coat your lies. #NoToSofitelDay3 #BoycottSofitelPHDay3  – @polgeepren

Why do some creatures underestimate people’s intelligence all the time? We don’t buy your crappy excuse! #BoycottSofitelPH #NotoSofitel – @epolkerot

Sabi nga ni Macalintal, just admit that you’re wrong.. May excuses pa kayo eh. Illogical naman. #NoToSofitelDay3 #BoycottSofitelPHDay3 – @dengtamon

 

Just keep tweeting! Ayaw pang magpakumbaba ng @SofitelManila sa ginawa nilang panghahamak. Ma-ere kasi. #NotoSofitel #BoycottSofitelPH  – @jojiealabarca

 

As of writing time, the boycott against Sofitel Philippines is being continued as it stays on top of Twitter ranks since it started.

UNTV, which just recently celebrated its 10th year anniversary, is a public service network which has news and public service bureaus in several countries.