Santa Maria, My Kind of Town

Santa Maria Street Scene

2009-02-09T00:48:00.000-08:00

Description: Street Dancing in Sta. Maria hosted by Sacred Heart Academy students marked their yearly foundation day.

‘Go Negosyo’ fetes Bulakenyos

2008-10-03T17:28:00.001-07:00

Go Negosyo’ fetes Bulakenyos
By Dino Balabo
Saturday, October 4, 2008

MALOLOS CITY – The Go Negosyo movement, led by entrepreneur Joey Concepcion, feted 18 most inspiring Bulakenyo entrepreneurs at the Centro Escolar University Centrodome here yesterday.

Ten of the awardees received “Most Inspiring Small and Medium Entrepreneurs” awards, six were given the “Most Inspiring Micro-Entrepreneurs” awards, while two received a special award for institutions.

The 10 most inspiring small and medium entrepreneurs are Dr. Abraham Pascual of Pascual Laboratories Inc., Ambassador Jesus Tambunting of Planters Bank, Jovenson Ong of Dragon Fireworks Inc., Nestor Santiago of the Bulacan Garden Corp., Jose Hernandez Jr. of Milko Ice Cream Specialties;

Enrico Roque of the Bodega ng Bayan, shoemaker Donald Esterban of Proest Philippines Inc., educator Dr. Alicia Bustos of the Baliuag University, Gemma Sevilla-Alcantara of the pastillas making Sevilla Sweets, and Dr. Isabel Lopez-Nazal of the Clinica Dermatologica YSA Skin Care Center.

The six most inspiring Bulakenyo micro-entrepreneurs are Arnel Papa of ER Shell Craft, Ramon Santos of Disenyo Pandi-Bagong Barrio Multi-Purpose Cooperative, master baker Teresita Castro-Boado of Barasoain Bakeshop, farmer and dairy man Carlito del Rosario of the Sta. Maria Dairy Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative Inc., Corazon de la Cruz of LCJ Garments, and Teddy Bequizo of Buntal Ethnic Enterprises.

The institutional awardees are Dr. Cristina Padolina of Centro Escolar University and Dr. Antonio B. Fortuna of the St. Martin of Tours Credit & Development Cooperative.

Presidential Management Staff Secretary Cerge Remonde told The STAR that the awards aim to fight poverty by encouraging people to go into entrepreneurship.

“We go from one city to another to further promote entrepreneurship,” Remonde, said, noting that Bulacan is one of the most progressive provinces in the country.

“We are celebrating the success of the Bulakenyo entrepreneurs today.”

Remonde said that many Bulakenyo entrepreneurs have become a model for those who want to go into business.

Gov. Joselito Mendoza said that the Go Negosyo awards are a big boost to local entrepreneurs and will encourage more people to set up business in Bulacan.

“We are now working towards the achievement of a dream for Bulacan to become the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) capital in the country,” he said.

Mendoza said that there are over 42,000 registered SMEs in Bulacan along with thousands of micro enterprises assisted by about a thousand cooperatives.

He stressed that local cooperatives serve as the backbone of the local economy through their micro-finance programs.

Sta. Maria Concelebrated Fiesta Sunday Mass

2008-02-28T16:39:00.000-08:00

Sta. Maria Concelebrated Fiesta Sunday Mass February 24, 2008

Pulong Buhangin: Centennial Fiesta

2008-02-17T16:26:00.000-08:00

Centennial fiesta

The Parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel of Pulong Buhangin, Sta. Maria, Bulacan, will celebrate today the 100th fiesta of its patroness Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Parishioners will showcase their continued dedication to the Church and the community under the patronage of the Virgin and their other patron, San Sebastian.

Marian Exhibit during Sta. Maria Town Fiesta 2008

2008-02-10T13:48:00.000-08:00

Note: Ang mga sumusunod na video ay kinuha ni Baby Santiago

Online Videos by Veoh.com

Exhibit of Sto. Nino in Sta. Maria

2008-02-10T13:32:00.000-08:00

Opening of exhibit of Sto. Nino in Sta. Maria, Bulacan

Online Videos by Veoh.com

Sta. Maria Town Fiesta Band Parade 2008

2008-02-10T10:56:00.000-08:00

Sta. Maria Town Fiesta Band Parade (Presentacion at La Torre) is held every first Wednesday (Bisperas) of February, which is a day before the town fiesta.

Maraming salamat kay Baby Santiago sa mga videos na ito!

Repleksyon:Ang "Social Cancer" sa Bayan ko!

2008-02-09T23:58:00.000-08:00

"Isang Komedya, na di- katawa-tawa!"

Bakit kaya mahirap alisin ang maling kaugaliang ipinamana sa atin ng mga Prayleng Kastila noon?

Ang napakaipokritang "Mangangalakal ng Salita ng Diyos?" Ang paraang ginamit nila upang madaling ma-brainwash ang mga Pilipino (mga indios).

Sa nakaraang mahigit na isang-daang taon na, taglay pa rin natin ang ating grabeng karamdaman, ang "Social Cancer" na talaga yatang wala ng lunas, ayon ito sa sinabi ni Dr. Jose P. Rizal sa kanyang "Noli Me Tangere". Kailan kaya tayo magbabago upang baguhin ang ating "Utak Talangka?" Bakit hanggang sa ibang bansa o dito sa Amerika dala natin ang ugaling ito? Lalo na pag kaharap natin ang kapwa-pinoy natin pero sa ibang lahi di tayo maka-porma.

Ito ba ang ating nos. 1 export product sa ngayon. Bakit di natin isa-isip at isagawa ang ating kawikaang "Pulutin ang tama, iwaglit ang masama!"

Ito ba ang ating ipapamana sa ating susunod na angkan na mga Filipino-American?

Una, ang gamitin ang bawa't samahan para sa sariling kapakanan.

Ang mang-agaw ng papel upang itaas ang kanyang sarili.

Ang alamin ang pagkakaiba sa usapang kanto, kwentong barbero, kaisipang joklay sa tunay at pormal na pinag-uusapan. Na mas madalas paikutin natin ang kapwa sa platitong mani at sa isang baso ng gin.

Marahil makikita natin ito kung mapapanood natin ang isang Filipino Channel (especiallly a "Noontime Show") kung gaano tayo naiimpluwensyahan nito. Hindi tamang dahilan na "Gusto lang nating maging masaya," ay puede na nating gawin ang lahat! Sa akin, hindi ito tamang paniniwala.

Ang ating sobrang kayabangan at ang tamang pag-gamit ng mga hi-tech gadgets kagaya ng cellphone. Na ayaw i-off kung kinakailangan lalo na kung tayo ay nasa Banal na Misa.

Ang isang halimbawa, ang sobrang pagsusugal natin kahit ito ay wala sa tamang lugar at panahon ay ating ding ginagawa. Kilala at maraming Pilipino dito sa US ang lulong sa casino.

Ang pangalawa ay ang maruming pamumulitika.

(Do you know that "POLITICS" is a latin word meaning poli, "many" & tics "bloodsucking creature".)

Ang nauuso at nakakalokohang ang akala nila sila ay alagad ng sining Show Business "feeling showbiz", ika nga.Lahat gustong mag-artista.

Lahat gusto nasa entablado, hawakan ang mikropono at kumanta at magtalumpati. At gumanap ng bidang papel.

Dapat ihiwalay natin ang tunay paniniwala sa tunay na pananamplataya.

Di yata tayo mabubuhay ng walang kaipokritahan! Para tayong mga plastic at styrofoam na di basta nabubulok at nakakasama sa kalikasan kung ito ay ating pababayaan at ipagbabale-walain na lamang. Ganito ba talaga tayong mga Pilipino?

Di ba tayo marunong mahiya sa iba? Di natin iniisip ang ating sinasabi at ginagawa.

Ang akala ng nila walang nakakapansin sa kanilang ginagawa, ang totoo nakakahiya sila sapagka't dito pa sa Bansang Amerika nagkakalat ng nakakadiring kaugalian.

Ewan at ewan pa rin ang aking tanging sagot at ang huling tanong "Saan tayo Pupunta?" Totoo bang ang Pilipino, tulad ng iba kong kababayan sa Bayang Dakila, ay bayan din ni Juan Tanga wala paki habang sinasamantala ng mga taong nagsasabi sa kanilang sarili ay banal at pantas, gayung sa kanilang sarili sila ay hunghang at ganid sa karangalan!

Sana ang ang tunay na kapurihan ay maibalik sa ating Mahal na Inang Birheng Maria sa tuwing sasapit ang kanyang kapistahan ng pagdiriwang.

Ang mga pangyayaring ito ay aking inihihahain at idinadalangin na kaming mga anak nya ay mapagbago sa ngalan ng aming Panginoong Hesus.---Isang kamalayan ni Memen B.

Ang mga iba't-ibang angkan ng mga taga Sta. Maria

2008-02-08T09:17:00.000-08:00

Narito ang mga ilan sa mga angkan ng mga tunay na taga Santa Maria. Alam ng inyong abang-lingkod na marami pang angkan ang dapat kasama sa listahan na ito. Nakakalungkot isipin na ang kaugaliang ito ay unti-unti na ring nawawala. Ang tradisyong ay dapat nating ipagmalaki kaysa ikahiya. Ito ang nagpapatunay na taal tayong mamayang taga Sta.Maria at tunay na Pilipino.

Isang Paala-ala lang po hindi po ito ang eksaktong "genealogy" ng isang pamilya...mas malapit po ito sa sinasabing salitang kanto o usapang barberya...o in other words ay bansag, alias, o a.k.a.! At di maiikaila ninuman na hindi ito nangyayari at higit sa lahat ito ay ating kagawian.

1. Angkan ng Dupong
2. Angkan ng Bayawak
3. Angkan ng Tuko
4. Angkan ng Puti
5. Angkan ng Itim
6. Angkan ng Kuwitib

7. Angkan ng Bulilit

Sana ma-alaala ko pa ang iba ayon sa kuwento ng aking mga magulang, Lolo at ni Lola. kamag-anak, kaibigan at mga mahal kong kababayan.

At inaanyahan ko po ang sinuman na makipagtulungan sa inyong abang-lingkod na madagdagan ang ibat-ibang tunay na anak ng Bayang Santa Maria.

Naniniwala po ang inyong lingkod na di ito nakakababa ng ating pagkatao bagkus ito ay nakakadagdag ng ating pagkakakilanlan at kasarinlan.

Bilang pag-galang "YUNG IBA NA ALAM KO PA AY SADYA KONG HINDI ISINALI. Marahil alam 'nyo po kung bakit?

Hindi po layunin ng may akda na makasakit ng damdamin ninuman. MARAMING SALAMAT PO AT MABUHAY TAYONG LAHAT!

Ayon sa kasaysayan ng ating Bayan: "Bago pa man kinilala ang ating Dakilang Bayan bilang "Egg Basket of the Philippines", sa matamis na "Pakwan o watermelon", sa pag-gawa ng magagandang "Duster", "RTW" at handicraft, sa napakamakulay na pailaw at malakas paputok "Fireworks" at sa pagluluto ng malutong na "chicharon", sa napalaraming banko at resorts, ang Bayang Santa Maria ay kilala bilang "Bayan ng Awit at Tula."

Rommel & Maricel Wedding Day Saturday February 3, 2008

2008-02-07T07:06:00.000-08:00

Please click the play button to watch the slideshow!

Or wanna try if this one is better?

FIESTA e-INVITATION mula kay Ed C. Villanueva P.E. (Pangulo 2008)

2008-02-05T18:58:00.000-08:00

ENERO 1, 2008

MGA MAHAL NA KABABAYAN,

"MALUGOD PO NAMIN KAYONG INAANYAYAHAN SA PAGDIRIWANG NG ATING KAPISTAHAN!" PARA SA BANAL NA PATRONA NG ATING BAYAN, ANG INMACULADA CONCEPCION.

ANG PAGDIRIRIWANG NATIN AY GAGANAPIN SA IKA 9 NG PEBRERO 2008 SA JOHN S SIMMS PARK, BELLFLOWER, CA. MAGSISIMULA ANG PALATUNTUNAN SA IKA- SAMPU NG UMAGA (10:00AM).

INAASAHAN NAMIN ANG INYONG PAGDALO AT SALAMAT PO SA ANUMANG TULONG NA INYONG IPAGKAKALOOB PARA SA IKA-SASAYA NG ATING PAGDIRIWANG.

MALIGAYANG PASKO AT MANIGONG BAGONG TAON PO SA INYONG LAHAT !!!

SUMASAINYO,
ED C. VILLANUEVA
PANGULO
TEL. (562) 402 5757

DAMASO SANTIAGO
UNANG PANGALAWANG PANGULO
(818) 943 4887

MOLLY BELARMINO
PANGALAWANG PANGULO
(619) 795-0169

BERT DALMACIO
PANGALAWANG PANGULO

RINA LOPEZ
INGAT YAMAN
(562) 923-2171

LILIAN BUENAVENTURA
IKALAWANG INGAT YAMAN
(909) 899-8273

CYNTHIA BARLES
KALIHIM
(310) 926-7455

Paalala: Ang pagpapatala (registration) ay magsisimula ng ika 9:30 ng umaga. Magpatala po kayo upang mapabilang kayo sa listahan ng talaan ("updated members info list") ng ating samahan.

View Larger Map

Ika-216 na pagkakatatag ng Bayang Santa Maria (1702-2008) Lalawigan ng Bulacan

2008-02-04T01:46:00.000-08:00

Muli ang ika-216 na pagkakatatag ng Bayang Santa Maria (1702-2008) ay gugunitain. Ito ay sa sa ika-6 at 7 ng Pebrero, taung kasalukuyan(2008). Ito ay ipagdiriwang ng aking mga kababayang nasa Pilipinas at mga kababayan kong nasa ibang bansa sa kapurihan ng aming patronang La Inmaculada Concepcion(in Spanish), (Immaculate Conception (in English).

Natatandaan ko pa ang halos walang katapusang pagdiriwang tuwing sasapit ang kanyang kapistahan. Inaabot ito ng isang buwan o higit pa. Abala na ang aking mga kababayan at ang mga namumuno pagkatapos ng Undas, Pasko at Bagong Taon. Ang ihip ng hanging amihan ay isang tanda na malapit na nga ang kanyang kapistahan.

Sa aking karanasan bilang kasapi noon ng pagbuo ng pagbalangkas sa susunod na pagdiriwang ng kanyang Kapistahan, narito ang ilang gawi at kaugalian upang maging tagumpay at tunay na masaya ang naturang taunang pagdiriwang.

Mula pa lamang sa ika-15 ng buwan ng Agosto (Assumption of Mary) ay magpapatawag na ng pulong ang Pangulo ng Kapistahan at ang Kura Paroko sa mga kasapi at mga punong-abala. At ito ay buong husay at masusing inaayos ang lahat ng mga bagay-bagay mula financial hanggang schedule ng iba't ibang pagtatanghal bawa't linggo ng buwan ng Pebrero.

Kaya nga't taun-taon ay tunay na malakihan ang ginagawang pagdiriwang. Una sa lahat, tuwina madalas ay sampu pataas ang inaayayahang Banda ng Musiko na nanggaling pa sa iba't-ibang bayan ng Pilipinas.

Ang unang tanong ng karamihan "Ilan bang Banda ng Musiko ang tutugtog o aanyahan sa araw na ito?" Dito pa lamang makikita mo ang pagkahilig sa Musika ng mga taga Sta.Maria. Mula sa Parada ng mga Banda, Presentasyon sa La Torre, Majorette Exhibition sa hapon ng bisperas at sa gabi ang laging inaabangang Serenata o Konsyerto ng mga Banda na dinadayo naman ng mga ibang manonood at taga-pakinig mula sa ibang lugar na laging inaabangan ng mga mahilig sa musika.

At sa umaga ng kaarawan ang Misa Cantada o Concelebrated Mass na ginagampanan ng maraming pari at obispo ay tunay na dakilang kaugalian naming mga taga Santa Maria. Ang dakilang prusisyon sa kaarawan ay tunay na dinadayo ng marami.

Ganito kalapit ang mga tao sa Parokya na tunay namang katangi-tangi. Di lamang sa araw ng Kapistahan kundi sa buong taon. Ang gawain sa Simbahan ay bahagi na ng pangaraw-araw na buhay ng aking mga kababayan.

Kaya nga't kaming mga nasa ibang bansa ay pilit na ginagawa ang kaugaliang ito. Na sa pamamagitan ng abot ng aming makakaya ay amin rin na ipinagdiriwang ang Kapistahan ng Imaculada Concepcion taun-taon kahit kami ay malayo sa Kanya. ---Mula kay Memen B. (your Webmaster)

Watch this documentary video>>>DAKILANG BAYAN, SANTA MARIA

Video Archive (Balik-Tanaw):Pamana 1992 "Bi-Centennial Celebration"(a Documentary Film)

More info>>> Santa Maria, Bulacan from Wikipededia, the free encyclopedia

News Update:Ex-Bulacan mayor held for estafa ?

Photo Archives: Sta. Maria Town Fiesta 2007 photos courtesy of Cecil M. Suarez (Suarez Studio)

Fiesta 2008 sa LA e-Invitation mula kay Ed C. Villanueva P.E. (Pangulo 2008)

Ash Wednesday in the Catholic Church-February 6, 2008

2008-01-30T18:05:00.000-08:00

The First Day of Lent:
In the Roman Catholic Church, Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent, the season of preparation for the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday. (In Eastern Rite Catholic churches, Lent begins two days earlier, on Clean Monday.)

While Ash Wednesday is not a holy day of obligation, all Roman Catholics are encouraged to attend Mass on this day in order to mark the beginning of the Lenten season. READ MORE>>>

Catholic Calendar 2008Roman Catholic Liturgical Calendar

CARNIVAL
from WIKIPEDIA, the free Encyclopedia

Carnival is a festival season. It occurs immediately before Lent; the main events are usually during February or March. It typically involves a public celebration or parade combining some elements of a circus and public street party. People often dress up or masquerade during the celebrations.

Carnival is mostly associated with Roman Catholic and, to a lesser extent, Eastern Orthodox Christians; Protestant areas usually do not have carnival celebrations or have modified traditions, like the Danish Carnival. The world's largest carnival celebration is held in Brazil but many countries worldwide have large, popular celebrations, such as Carnival of Venice. READ MORE>>>

Celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Although Mardi Gras is celebrated around the world, no one does it like New Orleans -- the City that Care Forgot!* This site introduces you to the major participants of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, provides updated parade information and parade routes, the truth about our Mardi Gras traditions, the best places to get your Mardi Gras beads, masks, and kingcakes ... and more!

Dr. Francisco Santiago " Ama ng Kundiman"

2008-01-14T06:23:00.000-08:00

Isang pag-alaala sa 119th ka-arawan ng ating kaba-bayang si Dr. Francisco Santiago (1889 - 1947) ang "Ama ng Kundiman", at narito ang ilan sa mga nai-alay nya sa Musikang Pilipino.

Dr. Francisco Santiago was born in Santa Maria, Bulacan, on January 29, 1889 (one day before my birthday) to musically-minded peasant parents, Felipe Santiago and Maria Santiago. He was the first of their three children. His parents had the same surname but they were not related by blood.

At age seven, he took solfeggio lesssons under an uncle, Matias Magracia, a country violinist, who took him along to haranas or serenades during moonlit nights. But his parents did not like him to be a musician. It was after his father died that he was given open encouragement to study music. He became popular in his hometown as a boy singer in the school and in the church.

After completing his elementary education in the public school, he went to Manila. He was admitted as a houseboy in the Dominican convent and studied piano forte under the famous Dominican music teachers, such as Blas Echegoyen, Faustino Villacorta, and Fray Primo Calzada. With the latter, he studied vocalization, organ playing and the rudiments of compositions. He finished his primary education at the Colegio de San Juan de Letran and left to find employment as a pianist in various stage theatres. He joined orchestra groups while continuing with his college course which he finished at the Liceo de Manila.

In 1908, his first composition, Purita, was dedicated to the first Carnival Queen, Miss Pura Villanueva, who later married the distinguished scholar Teodoro M. Kalaw.

In 1912, he won first prize in musical contest sponsored by Teodoro M. Kalaw. In the same year, he won a first prize in a musical contest entitled Oxipator (Waltz) sponsored by Yangco firm. A year later he made a zarzuela entitled Margaritang Mananahi. In 1914, he was lured to accept a job abroad, directing an orchestra in Shanghai. Upon his return to Manila, he taught piano and became director of the choir at the San Jose Seminary, Manila, 1915-1916.

In September 1916, he was taken in as an instructor while working in the conservatory. He composed what is now the classic Anak ng Dalita. He enrolled at the Conservatory taking courses under Director George and others. In the same year, he fell in love with a young student who was enrolled in voice culture by the name of Concepcion Ocampo. In 1919, he composed a song entitled Ave Maria and dedicated it to her. As he was getting more stable economically, he made a decision to get married. He and Concepcion were wedded at Quiapo Church on April 24, 1920. Their Marriage was blessed with four children, Jose, Ramon, Carmen and Teresita.

He was first to take a post graduate course in music and was the first to give a post graduate recital in piano forte in 1921 at the Conservatory.

The New director (Schofield) of the Conservatory of Music saw that Santiago should have further training abroad. Arrangements were made with University authorities and Santiago left in August 1923 to enroll at the American Conservatory of Music, Chicago, Illinois, where he obtained his Master of Music degree, 1924. He also received a special honorable mention during the commencement exercises for excellence in studies. He was the first Filipino to receive the degree of Doctor of Music from the Chicago Musical College. His graduation piece played at the Kimball Hall was entitled Concerto in B Flat Minor, 1924. The American Conservatory of Music also awarded him the teacher’s Certification in voice culture. Then he participated in an international contest conducted by the Chicago Daily news, and his Remembrance, was awarded third place.

Back in Manila in 1923, he made his debut at the Zorilla theatre on February 5, 1925.

Dr. Santiago returned to the UP conservatory of Music. Dr. Alexander Lippay, the director of the school took notice of his talent and immediately promoted him to assistant professor, making him head of the piano department. He taught advanced composition among other subjects.

He then won first prize in two national contests namely, Himno al Cristo Rey (1928) and Himno del Congreso Eucaristico Nacional (1929) which he considered the greatest moment of his life, more significant than the honor he received in Chicago.

When the UP Board of Regents did not renew Dr. Lippay’s contract, Santiago was named official-in-charge and was later promoted to associate professor of piano and acting director of the Conservatory.

In 1935, he was named full professor and director of the Conservatory of Music.

During the Japanese occupation in 1943, he had a heart attach and suffered from paralysis which incapacitated him.

He was named UP Emeritus Professor of Piano, on May 25, 1946. When the U.P. Conservatory of Music was celebrating its 30th anniversary, the nationalistic musician died of heart attack on September 28, 1947. He was buried at the North Cemetery, Manila.

Ang ilan sa mga awitin ni Dr. Francisco Santiago sa youtube.com
("When clicking or listening to the following songlinks please be sure to use your back button/backspace to go back to this page, maraming salamat po!")

Madaling Araw (chorale version) by Dr. Francisco Santiago

Ave Maria by Dr. Francisco Santiago

Madaling Araw by Dr. Francisco Santiago, sa pag-awit ni Bb. Sylvia La Torre (a Filipina Soprano Coloratura)

Anak Dalita by Francisco Santiago, sa pag-awit ni Ric Manrique Jr.(Tenor)

Anak Dalita (F. Santiago) for SSTB
(Soprano, Soprano, Tenor & Baritone Arrengement)

Pakiusap by Francisco Santiago, sa pag-awit ni Ric Manrique Jr. (Tenor)

Ang Mga Awitin ni Conching Rosal

ANG KUNDIMAN(My Kundiman playlist on youtube.com, a collection of Classic Filipino Kundiman (Immortal Filipino Art Songs)by all the great Filipino composers like Dr. Francisco Santiago, Nicanor Abelardo, Constancio de Guzman, J. M. Buencamino and many others.)

Ang mga awitin ni Ric Manrique Jr.

Ang iba pang mga awitin ni Bb. Conching Rosal at ang mga mang-aawit na Pilipino

Paskuhan 2007

2008-01-09T04:58:00.000-08:00

Pasko ng Paska 2007 sa Parokya ng Sta. Maria, Bulacan
Watch here>>>

Pampanga Fluvial Parade Accident

2008-01-07T17:18:00.000-08:00

Policemen on Monday join the search for victims of the accident that happened during a fluvial parade in Pampanga.

Body of missing participant found

This page requires a higher version browser

Boy still missing

This page requires a higher version browser

PELCO officials, village chief may be sued for pagoda mishap

This page requires a higher version browser

1 killed in Pampanga fluvial parade mishap

This page requires a higher version browser

Search for missing devotee still on in Pampanga

This page requires a higher version browser

Search for 2 missing people in Pampaga fluvial parade starts

This page requires a higher version browser

Some devotees of Pampanga fluvial parade electrocuted

This page requires a higher version browser

DAKILANG BAYAN : SANTA MARIA, BULACAN

2008-01-07T16:09:00.000-08:00

DISCLAIMER: Let everybody know that I do not own any part of this documentary video clips.

***Keep pressing stop/play button. It takes a while to load but it's worth-watching!

UNANG BAHAGI

IKALAWANG BAHAGI

IKATLONG BAHAGI

***Let us give thanks and acknowledge all the people who are responsible for this documentary film. Give them recoginition by reading all their names on the end credits of this 3 OF 3 of this video.

MABUHAY PO TAYONG LAHAT!--Memen Belarmino of SDCA mYdEsKtOpMuLtImEdIa PRO2010

Sen. Pimentel to push for total ban vs firecrackers

2008-01-06T06:18:00.000-08:00

This page requires a higher version browser

Divisoria vendors hike fruit prices for the coming New Year

This page requires a higher version browser

PNP reports orderly, peaceful celebration of new year

This page requires a higher version browser

Cops seal firearms for New Year’s eve

This page requires a higher version browser

Cops can't find person who caused fire in Bocaue fireworks shops

This page requires a higher version browser

Owners of Bocaue firecracker stalls start cleanup

This page requires a higher version browser

Poblacion, Sta.Maria, Bulacan

2007-10-29T21:04:00.000-07:00

(From www.wikimapia.org)Satellite View of our beloved town click here!

Phillipines: 1M Candidates

2007-10-29T07:38:00.000-07:00

(From cnn.com/asia)

MANILA, Philippines (AP) -- More than a million candidates took part in the Philippines' latest rambunctious exercise in democracy amid tight security Monday, seeking nuts-and-bolts posts that keep the country running.

The 120,000-strong Philippine police force was on full alert for the national holiday to guard against fraud and violence, with at least 23 candidates or followers killed since the election season began last month, police Director-General Avelino Razon Jr. said.

Voting also was marred by flooding, landslides and a school fire. The candidates are vying for nearly 672,000 posts in 42,000 villages, known as barangays. Read More>>>

CLICK HERE>>>For more news update on Baranggay SK Election 2007

Bulacan Villages Under Watch

2007-10-28T19:01:00.000-07:00

The Philippine National Police in Bulacan, meanwhile, said it is now keeping an eye on nine barangays in the province.

Senior Superintendent Asher Dolina, Bulacan police chief, identified the "areas of concern" as the villages of Pungo, Sto. Niño and Meyto in Calumpit town; Niugan in Angat; Pulong Buhangin in Sta. Maria; and Muzon and San Isidro in San Jose del Monte City.

Dolina also named Barangay Sibul in San Miguel town and Barangay Akle in San Ildefonso as "areas of immediate concern."

He said police and military contingents will beef up security to maintain peace and order in these areas.

Dolina, meanwhile, reported the arrest of Marlon Gascon, 29, of Pandi town for violating the COMELEC gun ban. Gascon was arrested for alleged possession of an M-16 rifle, two magazines with live ammunition and a .38 pistol.

In Sta. Maria town, three alleged supporters of former mayor Ato Mateo poured gasoline on an Elf truck in Barangay Catmon.

Supporters of incumbent Sta. Maria Mayor Omeng Ramos were on board when the suspects doused the truck with gasoline. No one was reported hurt when the suspects set the truck on fire.
(from ABS-CBN Interactive)

Ang Ilog Ng Meycauayan At Marilao

2007-09-22T16:24:00.000-07:00

Residents say river in Meycauayan was once clean

This page requires a higher version browser

Meycauayan & Marilao among world's polluted towns

This page requires a higher version browser

Isang Araw sa Bayan Ni Maria

2007-09-17T15:33:00.000-07:00

"One lazy Sunday in a Little town of Mary"
(Music Video Clip courtesy of Cecil M.Suarez)

Ang Linggo Ng Bulacan 2007

2007-09-10T14:25:00.000-07:00

September 08 - 15, 2007
"BAGONG BULAKENYO: Maka-Diyos, Makatao at Makakalikasan, Mapagmahal sa Pamilya at Tapat sa Bayan; Hinutok ng Panahon tulad ng Kawayan"

Folk Dance presentation was rendered by the Faculty of Sta. Maria District School during DepEd Day of Bulacan Week.

Pangkat Kawayan ng Catmon Elementary School

Students from Catmon Elementary School aged between 7 to 12 years rendered the intermission number during the DepEd Celebration as part of Bulacan Week Celebration in Sta. Maria Bulacan. They used the bamboo as their musical instruments.

Video Courtesy of Baby Santiago

Go to Ang Linggo Ng Bulacan 2007 Website

Dakilang Bayan, Santa Maria

2007-09-10T13:18:00.001-07:00

Santa Maria Bulacan Tourism Documentary Part 1

A Project of Santa Maria Tourism Council
Narrated by Rain Libiran
Research & script by Fernando "Toto" Perez

"Ang dakilang buntala ay sumilay na
Sa minumutya nitong Santa Maria
Pinagyaman ang ilog at kaparangan
Pati na sining ay nalinang

Dakilang Ina ng pagpipita
Taglay Nya'y biyaya't pagsinta
Na sa ating lahat ay nakatunghay
At handang laging umalalay

Bayan ng awit at tula
Maging ng malalim na pananampalataya
Dangal ng kanyang mamamayan
Hinirang ng Poong manlalalang

Sagana ang noon at ngayon
Hanggang sa kinabukasan ay pumaroon"

Part II
Kasama ang mga bagong-kabataan ng miyembro ng Banda 88 at ng kasalukuyang Maestro na si Arnel Jacinto. Dito, makikita at magpapatunay na nasa puso ng mga taga Sta.Maria ang pagkahilig sa tunay na sining ng musika. At ang paniwala na sa pamamagitan ng kapangyarihan nito na makakatulong ito sa paghubog ng bagong lider at mabuting mamayan ng ating dakilang bayang, Santa Maria.

Banda 88 ng Sta.Maria, Bulacan on YouTube.com
A video archives...Here are some of their best performances!Band 88 (Musikong Luma (original) ng Sta. Maria, Bulacan, Philippines.

San Vicente Holy Land Cave

2007-08-27T11:14:00.000-07:00

Replicas of the Holyland in Parish of the Mother of the Holy Eucharist,San Vicente Sta. Maria Bulacan.

Prusisyon

2007-08-26T17:13:00.000-07:00

The Good Friday tradition at Sta. Maria Bulacan, Philippines

Kabalikat Civicom

2007-08-26T16:41:00.000-07:00

"EMY"

2007-08-26T10:01:00.000-07:00

Concerned citizens of Marilao, Bulacan informs Bitag of Emy - a mentally-unbalanced, pregnant woman loitering fully nude in the city and scouring piles of garbage for food. Ben scoffs at the fact that the municipality and DSWD have not taken any action at all despite being only a few metres away from Emy's location (video courtesy of IBC-

NPA sa Bulacan

2007-08-26T09:42:00.000-07:00

(Video archive)March 29,2002 Pandi, Bulacan

The Bitag team goes where no other local media has gone before - in the middle of an actual firefight between New People's Army rebels and the military. With nothing more but an APC serving as their cover, Ben and his camera crew films the entire encounter including the rescue of a critically wounded soldier pinned down by enemy fire (video courtesy of UNTV)

Riding in Tandem sa Sta.Maria, Bulacan

2007-08-26T09:20:00.000-07:00

See Sta. Maria Police in action....Binabati ko kayo for a job well-done, Mabuhay Kayong Lahat Dyan!Pinagmamalaki kayo ng inyong mga kababayan!

Salot Na Babuyan

2007-08-20T16:50:00.000-07:00

One of the maltreated aides of a large piggery (in Sta.Maria,Bulacan), escapes her domineering employers and runs to the Bitag Action Center for help in freeing her cohort left behind. Ben sends Erwin to the piggery and as the ongoing retrieval takes place, Erwin learns that the owner is a huge movie producer and later receives a call from Ogie Diaz, a gossip reporter, who defames the reputation of the complainants (video courtesy of IBC-13)

Bulacan Flashflood News Update

2007-08-20T13:41:00.000-07:00

7 Bulacan towns flooded after Ipo Dam overflows

This page requires a higher version browser
For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

Itaktak Mo at ang Pulitika sa Sta.Maria

2007-08-20T10:27:00.000-07:00

Para sa aking mga kababayan. Narito ang mga ilang pangyayari noong nakaraang kampanya sa May 14 Eleksyon 2007 sa Sta.Maria Bulacan.

In Session with Vic B. (Victor Bongat)

2007-04-03T14:00:00.000-07:00

Osvaldo del Mar with Victor Bongat, July 05 at Newlands Golf Club, where the clients Dine'n'Dance. They have fabulous buffets.

Vic B. with John Gilliat on Rumba Flamenco CD
Listen to Osvaldo del Mar
Osvaldo del Mar website

Hongkong Disneyland Music Experience with Boy Capili

2007-04-03T13:06:00.000-07:00

The Hongkong Disneyland Band featuring Raul"Boy" Capili on solo Trumpet!

Raul"Boy" Capili on YouTube

Ave Maria by Dr.Francisco Santiago

2007-02-18T09:00:00.000-08:00

Video archives: Sung by Sta. Maria Grand Chorale (members from Guyong Choir, LPCC "La Purisima Concepcion Choir" and Your Sons & Daughters) in the 200th year (Bi-Centennial) celebration of Sta. Maria, Bulacan 1792-1992 (Pamana 1992). Accompanied by Comiso Family Strings Ensemble.Strings & Chorale arrangement by May "Memen" Belarmino. The Town Fiesta's theme was unity for the Blessed Virgin Mary "Isang Konsyerto...Pagkakaisa Alay Namin Kay Maria". The Hermano-Mayor was Mr. Arcadio Mendoza.Video coverage by Adong Belarmino of MACEAN Audio & Video Concepts of Laguerta, Poblacion Sta. Maria Bulacan, Philippines.

Pamana 1992 Sta.Maria Bi-Centennial Celebration

2007-02-15T21:16:00.000-08:00

An archive of a short documentary film-clip of the Bi-Centennial Sta.Maria Town Fiesta Celebration 1992."Bayan Kong Mahal" Sta. Maria Hymn officially sung. Composed by Dean Alfredo Buenaventura and lyrics by Fortunato Cruz. Sung by Sta.Maria Grand Chorale accompanied by Symphonic Composite Band of Sta.Maria (Band 88, Band 31 and Band 85. Chorale arrangement by May "Memen" Belarmino. The Hermano-Mayor was Mr. Arcadio Mendoza.And the theme of the celebration was "Pagkakaisa Alay Para Kay Maria".
Video footage coverage by Adong Belarmino of MACEAN Audio & Video Concepts.

Festive Overture

2007-02-15T17:16:00.000-08:00

Performance by Composite Band of Sta. Maria (Band 88 "Musikong Luma", Band 31 "Musikong Bago", Band 85 "Imaculata". Conducted by Maestro Arnel Jacinto

80's Medley performed by Band 88

2007-02-14T20:54:00.000-08:00

Performed by Band 88 of Sta.Maria, Bulacan, Raul "Boy" Capili on improvised solo, conducted by Maestro Arnel Jacinto.

Dahil Sa Iyo ng Banda 88

2007-02-14T18:30:00.000-08:00

Here is a beautiful rendition of Dahil Sa Iyo by Band 88 (Musikong Luma)Sta. Maria, Bulacan.
The music is originally composed by Mike Velarde Jr. and conducted by Maestro Arnel Jacinto.

Sta.Maria Town Fiesta Happenings 2007

2007-02-09T06:28:00.000-08:00

Click the images for a larger view

All pictures courtesy of Cecil M. Suarez

More Pictures: Sta.Maria,Ang Bayan Kong Mahal!
SMB PERSONALITIES
Read More info about my town: Santa Maria Bulacan

San Gabriel Centennial Choir

2006-10-23T21:22:00.000-07:00

The San Gabriel Centennial Choir won the grand prize in the 2005 Sta. Maria Choral Competition.

They sang "Ave Maria", "Kalesa" and the contest piece "Pilipinas".

Ang "Bunying Anghel" ang himno ng Parokya ni San Gabriel Arkangel sa Sta. Maria, Bulacan. Musika ni Engr. Lito Luciano at titik nina Rommel Cruz at Alex Juan.

A short picture clips of the San Gabriel Centennial Choir Batch 2003.
Watch this winning performance of the San Gabriel Centennial Choir. The song "Pilipinas", arranged by Alfredo Buenaventura, was the contest piece in the 2005Choral Competition in Sta. Maria, Bulacan.

Eleanor Rigby by Molly & Pat ( Jammin')

2006-10-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

The passion for music is still with us! Here my brother Molly & Pat take time to rehearse & jam a song from The Beatles "Eleanor Rigby".This is before doing our family rosary."The family that prays or plays together stays together!" Really proud of them!

Sons De Carrilhoes & Tempestad performed by Molly Belarmino

2006-09-17T23:54:00.000-07:00

João Pernambuco: Sons de Carrilhoes

I just caught my brother Molly practicing this beautiful piece, this is only the first part.
Sons de Carrilhoes (Songs of the Bells)
My brother Molly playing a choros (Music from Brazil)...
He is using a Yamaha Flamenco guitar, trying this guitar how does it sounds on a Brazilian Choros

TEMPESTAD (Rumba)- Juan Serrano

TEMPESTAD (Rumba) - A composition of Juan Serrano, a simple flamenco piece for guitar moderately performed by Molly Belarmino for the purpose of simply sharing the rumba playing right hand technique. He intentionally played it on a slower tempo for educational purposes.

During our High School days in SHA (Sacred Heart Academy, Sta, Maria Bulacan) Molly was a finalist in Solo Guitar Playing Contest in National PRISAA held in Tagbilaran, Bohol.Today, he is still active doing some indoor concerts in some of the libraries here in San Diego, doing story telling for young girls & boys promoting & preserving his Filipino Culture & Heritage through music. With him working on this community work is Luigi de la Cruz, who is the eldest son of my cousin Lodi de la Cruz and Edith de La Cruz.

Some of our kundimans, haranas & native folksongs were influenced by this style, Rumba (Flamenco) music from Spain.

PAMANA 1792-1992 (200th year BICENTINNEAL Fiesta Celebration)

2006-09-11T09:30:00.000-07:00

A short documentary film clip about Sta. Maria, produced by G. Arcadio Mendoza who was the Hermano Mayor of 200th year Fiesta Celebration (1992).

Sta. Maria, Ang Bayan Kong Mahal (Imno Opisyal)- composed by Dean Alfredo S. Buenaventura, lyrics in tagalog by my childhood friend G. Fortunato Cruz a.ka."Tatong Balugbog" of Likod Simbahan. Accompanied by Santa Maria Symphonic Concert Band ( a joint talent-effort of Banda 88,Banda 31 and Banda 85). Conducted by the composer himself, Dean Alfredo S. Buenaventura.

That time that the Grande Chorale of Sta. Maria, a joined mixed-choir (ICC (Immaculate Conception Choir, LPCC (La Purisima Concepcion Choir), Your Sons & Daughters) & Barrio Guyong Choir sung the immortal kundimans of our very own Dr. Francisco Santiago ( Ang Ama ng Kundiman, the first Filipino Doctorate in Music), who is also a native of this town.

Our repertoire includes "Madaling Araw, Ave Maria & Pakiusap".

MADALING ARAW ni Dr. Francisco Santiago
SATB Choral Arrangement accompanied by Piano & String Quartet by Meinardo "Memen" Belarmino

AVE MARIA ni Dr. Francisco Santiago
SATB Choral Arrangement with Piano & String Quartet by Meinardo "Memen" Belarmino

Fortunately, I was assigned to do all the choral and band/orchestral arrangement for all the songs during this special event! It was a great performance also by the Grand Choral together with the Comiso String Ensemble ( all the members are all my cousins).

This is only a short excerpt of that memorable and succesful event in celebration of 200th year ( Bicentennial Celebration) of my town. Directed by Nick Lizaso, also happened to be my "Kababayan"!

The greatest achievement of this occasion was when the three great bands namely Banda 88 (Musikong Luma), Banda 31 (Musikong Bago) and Band 85 (Immaculate) agreed to join and collaborated as one Symphonic Concert Band.

The most succesful concert in the history of Sta. Maria to date with, I should say!

They also include my own arrangement of " FILM MUSIC, a theme music collection from the Movies", a medley to liven up that evening of music offered to our Patroness La Inmaculada Concepcion.

FILM MUSIC MEDLEY (Short Version) by Meinard "Memen" Belarmino
Originally scored and arranged with Rhthym Section (Piano & Synthisizer, Guitar, Bass, Drums & Latin Percussion)
Conducted by Maestro Arnel Jacinto
Live Performance by the Composite Symphonic Concert Band of Santa Maria.

I really feel great that time, because this is a dream come true for the theme of this celebration "Pagkakaisa...Alay kay Maria".

Lastly, the music, artists, all the performers, talents and musicians are all native of my beloved Sta. Maria, My Kind of Town!

Anyway I'll try to post the full video coverage in the near future!

Sta. Maria Today

2006-08-18T18:21:00.000-07:00

THE MEADOWS is a beautiful middle-income subdivision project of Asian Land Strategies Corporation. It is located in the historic town of Sta Maria in the province of Bulacan.

It boasts of American-styled homes bounded with picket fences, wide roads & open landscapes, a rolling terrain, a regular fresh provincial breeze, a secured, quiet & exclusively private community... all designed to bear the distinctive flair of carefree living.

For inquiries, email maybelar@yahoo.com