1. How sad. More of the same boring, uninspired clowns. The usual suspects. Nothing “visionary” about Martin Nievera or Jasmine Trias, or some girl from the Mily Cyrus show. Pathetic. When will our community recognize the REAL visionaries? We like to congratulate ourselves on big “achievements” but as long as we think the folks listed here (Nia Peeples? Chris Judd?) are the best we can do, we’ll always be a joke. Think I’ll stay home and watch Wow-Wow-Wee. Hey, why isn’t Willie getting an award for his great vision?

   Posted by Jenny R. | March 6, 2008, 8:57 am

2. Pleased to say the best has yet to come. We’ll always be recognized by our most talented efforts to come up with this kind of events. This is really exciting! Stand and deliver Pinoy and be proud of yourself as i am right now.

   Posted by Jojie | March 7, 2008, 9:58 am

3. Hi,
   I hope lots of pictures are taken and posted for all of us to see..
   Mark Dacascos is my personal #1
   favorite Martial artist AND Actor.
   Way to go MARK!!

   Posted by mary brewer | March 7, 2008, 11:57 am

4. I am ashamed for my people. We always complain that we get “no respect” but when you see the list of characters our community thinks of as worthy of Visionary Awards I can understand why no one takes us seriously. I am not proud of these spectacles but I am proud to be Pinoy!

   Posted by Boy Z | March 7, 2008, 1:59 pm

5. Seriously, I won’t waste my money to this event. Those people mentioned -celebrities, politicians and alike… duh…you guys put big words like “visionary” to some people who dont even deserve it…think again…maybe abs-cbn (and its whole body)is the only one who deserve for this award.
   I am a Filipino and I’m very proud of being one.but i don’t support this event.

   Posted by Si SHE ito | March 7, 2008, 3:31 pm

6. Kuh Ledesma? Martin Nievera? Jasmine Trias? These are the people we are supposed to be proud of? Bong Revilla? Francis Magalona? Please! I fail to see what is so visionary about these folks. Is it possible to be proud to be Filipino but not proud of the crap your community makes? If so, then I am a Proud/Embarassed Pinoy. One day we will grow up and start celebrating REAL artists, REAL activists, REAL visionaires. People who make a difference in the life of Filipinos, not a bunch of marginally talented wannabes. These people do NOT represent me to the world. If they do, I understand why the world looks down on Filipinos.

   Posted by New Wem | March 7, 2008, 4:46 pm

7. I always wondered what other filipinos there were in the world other than the ones I shop with at Seafood City. Everybody wants to hate. Ain’t nobody else stepping up to the plate. Congratulate and get involved if you can do better. Support your own, whether they are porn starlets/nurses/postal workers.

   West up to all the pinoys/pinays from Los Angeles…Mabuhay!

   Posted by Big Dusty Loco | March 7, 2008, 4:51 pm

8. There are real artists in our community but most Filipinos think good music is Society of Seven. I will stay home and listen to my Gabe Balthazar, Charmaine Clamor, and Wild Man Bobby Enriquez CDs. Who you say? FILIPINOS!!! Pinoy pride all the way.

   Posted by Groove Merchant | March 7, 2008, 5:02 pm

9. I mean, Nia Peeples being honored as a Pinay? The only time she identifies as being Pinay is when it suits her. Anyone who has followed her knows that she identifies with Black culture. Look at her character on Young & Restless on CBS daytime. She used to date Arsenio Hall, who isn’t exactly Filipino. The only person I can see on the list who is especially noteworthy, is Christine Gambito, otherwise known as “Happyslip”. Now this girl has it going on, as is a great representative of the Filipino people. If you haven’t seen her stuff, check out the videos on her website, happyslip.com. All Filipinos will be able to identify with her. She is a true talent.

   Posted by Rollee | March 8, 2008, 6:21 am

10. Rollee,

    Get your facts straight. Nia Peeples NEVER dated Arsenio Hall, that was just a crazy rumour. She was married while working with him. And she is extremely proud of her heritage; just check out the articles and Q&A on her website, niapeeples.org.

    Posted by Sister Blister | March 8, 2008, 1:35 pm

11. Why on earth Miss Lea Salonga is not on the list..duh!…

    Posted by SHE | March 8, 2008, 3:05 pm

12. Here’s an up and coming starlet. Ramiele Malubay of American Idol. Although staying in the US, I believe she could be really big in the Philippines even if she’s not the ultimate winner.

    Also a shout out to my girl Anne Curtis. Love ya.

    Posted by Bar advice | March 8, 2008, 5:41 pm

13. tsk, tsk. if all you critics out there can do better…put your money where your mouth is. no wonder others look down on us…there’s so much negativity and bickering amongst ourselves. and the comments about Nia are just wrong. as a personal friend of hers, i resent what is being said. she is a gracious person who has never downplayed her Filipino background. these comments really show the ignorance of people when it comes to the entertainment industry, particularly in hollywood.

    Posted by Sonny Sison | March 8, 2008, 7:13 pm

14. You’re right Sonny…that’s really sad for our fellow Pinoy. You should be proud they were able to pull through with this. This will be annual and therefore, everybody will be recognized. If I were you, you should be there to support not dak-dak na lang ng dak-dak!

    Posted by Celticinla | March 9, 2008, 2:08 am

15. Interesting comments from all: I agree that inspite of the shortcomings, NuVison was brave enough even to embark on a project of this scale in Hollywood. We all can agree to disagree but one thing is certain: We all shoud be proud of the Philippines and all its interwined 200 years of convent rule and 50 years of American Hollywood. Mabuhay. Check out more at http://www.philippinepressclub.com

    Posted by xpressions | March 9, 2008, 10:17 am

16. I can’t blame the organizers for getting celebrities to help kick off the 1st Filipino American Visionary Awards. It surely catches the attention of everybody. Sadly lacking in the list of Visionary awardees are our true heroes in the Philippines and here in the U.S., those who make a positive difference in the lives of others. They are the ones with the vision.

    Posted by Maria Maria | March 9, 2008, 12:45 pm

17. Just another glamour feast. I have been in the USA for almost 40 years and ther are some Pilipino Americans that I can recommend who are true visionaries than the glamour and should be more deserving than the beautiful people featured in the show. My first choice, Joey Santiago - guitar player for The Pixies which revolutionized rock music in the 80’s. Curt Bisquera - drummer for the elite of Rock And Roll, including Elton John, Heartbreakers, Mick Jagger, etc. Efren “Bata” Reyes - revolutionized 9 ball billiard, fondly nicknamed “the magician” and spearheaded the transformation of the sport of billiard from an all white to a true international sport. But i guess these great Pilipinos are not pretty enough to be awarded.

    Posted by Beatman | March 9, 2008, 9:06 pm

18. I hope the 2nd one will be better than this.

    Posted by Laarni | March 9, 2008, 9:41 pm

19. What happened to Lea S. Sharon Cuneta, Chad Hugo from the Neptunes, Ranella the amazing singer and host from kjlh, the beautiful Jessica Alba, and Jaya???

    Posted by PROUD | March 9, 2008, 11:27 pm

20. Find the “Visionaries” of Filipino Hip Hop and R&B at http://www.heavyrotationshow.com!

    Posted by Heavy Rotation The Rise of Filipino Hip Hop and R&B | March 10, 2008, 4:07 am

21. We if we a flaw/s, we criticized so that next time it would be better. (that is, if they know how to accept it in a positive way). If there’s no criticism they’ll be stucked to their dumbness. (like those who don’t understand the art of criticism.)

    Posted by Si SHE ito | March 10, 2008, 12:47 pm

22. Relax people. It was the first one. It was a learning process as well as a very “political” endeavor to have undertaken. All things considered, it was successful. Do any of you have any idea how difficult it is to get the Kodak Theater as a venue for this event? And for all those that said they wouldn’t support it, that’s okay…the theater was packed and thoroughly enjoyed by pinoys and nonpinoys alike.

    Posted by Sonny Sison | March 10, 2008, 1:14 pm

23. The more I read about this event, the more i am convinced that this event was for the benefit of the folks back in the Philippines. This may also be an affair to be appreciated by the immigrants who came in here in the past forty years and still have strong ties to the native land. But this certainly was not for the sons and daughters of immigrants who were born here. These kid who have their own unique issues that are probably not being addressed by events like this. I doubt if the children of immigrants, born and raised here, can relate to Dolphy, Martin, Kuh, Jaworski and the rest. Even the Pilipino-Americans that were honored probably had very little to do with the culture and just used the event as a promotion tool. The Filipinos just wanted to have a red carpet affair. What our daughters and sons need are more postive role models who want to make change.

    Posted by Beatman | March 10, 2008, 1:25 pm

24. Beatman…Do you not think the awards show wants the same thing in regards to making a change? One of the biggest undertakings of this event was to bring solidarity amongst our people who have made visible contributions to the world at large. As I read through the comments some have made here, it’s clear to me that may never happen. I know that some of the honorees at this event use their recognition as celebrities to bring attention to many charities and worthy causes without making themselves as the focus, often they do so anonymously. To be honest, the petty bickering and shallowness many filipinos exude is the exact reason why I have avoided working with Filipino productions. This is the first of which I can say I am glad to have been involved.

    Posted by Sonny Sison | March 10, 2008, 1:51 pm

25. Anyone think Filipinos are too cynical about everything? Cynicism where they criticize, shit-talk, become suspicious of everything. Anyone think that Filipinos always have this can’t do-attitude that resonates throughout much of our culture? I think Filipinos have too much of that, and these comments crapping on the event are just one of a nexus of examples.

    Criticize the guest choice and who the visionaries really are, but coming on here to say you don’t support or approve an event is just beyond stupid.

    It’s not like the event was going to wait for your stamp of approval. It’s one thing to kick the punching bag, but it’s quite another to take a knife and stab it.

    I’m going to say: hey stop hating other Filipinos. That just sounds like another command, which people in general hate being given. Instead, what I will do is ask: OK, so they had this awards show, maybe the guests weren’t the true visionaries and/or big enough celebrities recognized enough by the mainstream media, what are YOU going to do about getting the true visionaries recognized then?

    Posted by Brian J. | March 10, 2008, 3:52 pm

26. Hello Sonny. Do not take this as petty bickering because I really do not care less. You can have all your beautifully cheoreographed events and that is fine with me. It is just my understanding of “Visionary” is different than what this event was all about. You want a real “Visionary”, give a posthumous award to Larry Itliong. The uneducated grape picker in 1960 Delano who organized the Pilipino workers to put a stop to the exploitation of his fellow men. This was at a time when Pilipino migrants were referred as dogs. Cesar Chavez took a lot of credit because of his political connections and organized training but Itliong was the match that lit the fire. I am just calling the event as it is. Just do not try to sell it as something that it is not.

    Posted by Beatman | March 10, 2008, 4:38 pm

27. Beatman, right on!

    Posted by Si SHE ito | March 10, 2008, 5:05 pm

28. Beatman…and others…don’t get me wrong, I fully understand where everyone is coming from. There are indeed numerous Filipino luminaries who have made a tremendous impact to society, not just in the Filipino community, but to the world as a whole. No doubt Mr. Itlong is just one who deserves the acknowledgement and I for one am hoping to have an influence, in regards to this event, to push for them. But this was the first event and hopefully many more to come in the following years. No worries, all those deserving will get their due respect.

    Posted by Sonny Siso | March 10, 2008, 5:13 pm

29. After browsing through the comments, the “crab mentality” is in full effect.

    Posted by A.C. | March 10, 2008, 8:32 pm

30. @ A.C.: How high and mighty you sound. You’re the cliche to the cliche. We all have a right to voice our opinions re this event. Obviously you’re either involved with the event one way or the other. One of the producers or organizers maybe?

    Posted by Jennifer | March 10, 2008, 9:25 pm

31. I’d like to ask a question to those criticizing the event. With respect, what have you done to promote our people with goodwill, their contributions, and our legacies? Aside from casting your opinions.

    Posted by Sonny Sison | March 10, 2008, 11:30 pm

32. @ Sonny: Lighten up. There are many Fil-Ams who have been involved in raising funds for Gawad Kalinga and other charities in the Philippines. Holding the event did not make you guys the saints of goodwill for the Philippine nation. Btw, how do you promote goodwill when local and international media are held hostage in the “dungeon”?

    Also, what has the rest of the Filipino community and the American community learned from this event? What do I say to my children and nephews? That the only Filipino visionaries are singers, actors, sports stars, etc.? No scientists, poets, writers, novelists or top business executives et al? If that’s your group’s criteria, where is Leah Salonga, Manny Pacquiao, Efren Bata Reyes, among many others who have won awards and praise in the world stage? No awards for them even in absentia?

    Btw, someone needs to add more and better information in the NuVision website about this event, maybe a redesign at that. Sorry, couldn’t help myself with the unsolicited advice.

    Take the opinions with a grain of salt if these do not mesh with yours. I sincerely hope that the organizers will learn from this event. I hope the children will be inspired by your group’s next visionary awardees.

    Posted by Jennifer | March 11, 2008, 1:35 am

33. Jennifer…I am taking all the comments seriously to be able to improve what the show can be, that includes suggestions from everyone posting here. You misread my comment about “goodwill”. “Saints of Goodwill for the Philippine nation?” LOL!!!! Get off your high horse! I never said anything of the kind. I mean “for those who have contributed to society with good intentions!”

    If you’re one of those involved in raising funds and consciousness for charities, more power to you. In the same breath, quite a few of the honorees being criticized about receiving recognition also do the same. If you weren’t there, you couldn’t know what they said in their acceptance speeches about how proud they are to be Filipino and continue to strive be positive role models.

    As for a few of the names you mentioned, Manny was recognized but was unable to attend because of his upcoming bout and Lea’s people were also contacted. As stated before, this was the first of many to come and those deserving recognition will receive it.

    As for the press being locked up in a “dungeon”, I do empathize with them. “Being held hostage?” Noone held a gun to their head and told them couldn’t leave!lol The organizers are learning from this experience to make future awards shows the best they can be.

    Posted by Sonny Sison | March 11, 2008, 2:13 am

34. Hi A.C, pardon my ignorance but what is “crab mentality”

    Posted by Beatman | March 11, 2008, 6:41 am

35. Beatman…for your benefit…from Wikipedia (btw…AC is right):

    Crab mentality describes a way of thinking best described by the phrase “if I can’t have it, neither can you.” The metaphor refers to a pot of crabs in which one tries to escape over the side, but is relentlessly pulled down by the others in the pot.

    This term is broadly associated with short-sighted, non-constructive thinking rather than a unified, long-term, constructive mentality. It is also often used colloqially in reference to individuals or communities attempting to “escape” a so-called “underprivileged life”, but kept from doing so by those others of the same community or nation attempting to ride upon their coat-tails or who simply resent their success.
    In different cultures:

    For Filipinos, crab mentality is the tendency to “outdo another at the other’s expense”[1] or to “pull down those who strive to be better.”[2] An overzealous leader becomes morally shamed.[3] It “became a call for community leaders to acknowledge indebtedness to others and to work for the good of the entire community and not just for themselves.”[2]

    In Hawaii, it is known as the ‘alamihi syndrome, an ‘alamihi being a local black crab. Hawaiians are criticized behaving like ‘alamihi, which “always manage to pull down the ones who are trying to climb up and over the sides of a bucket.”[4] Similar analogies are used against natives in other areas, such as Maoris in New Zealand, coastal Indians in Canada and the United States, and Chamorros in Guam.

    It has been suggested that African Americans have inherited a cultural crab mentality based on a “doomsday mentality,” because in times of slavery and segregation it was difficult, if not impossible to for them to use education even after it had been acquired.

    Posted by Sonny Sison | March 11, 2008, 8:44 am

36. Crab mentality, funny but I see that trait, or behavior, every where. Even in Europeans and white Americans. I also noticed that you were just mentioning indeginous people in your analogy.
    It does not look as though anybody is putting anybody down in these threads. Some of us are commenting on what benefit was this event to Pilipino - Americans. It would have been better to call this event “The Philippine Artists and Entertainment Awards” instead of “Visionary”. This event promulgated the idea that we look to beautiful entertainers as our role models. I commend Jennifer for commenting “What do I say to my children and nephews? That the only Filipino visionaries are singers, actors, sports stars, etc.? No scientists, poets, writers, novelists or top business executives et al?”.
    That is very true.
    BTW, on your analogy of “crab mentality” it was also mentioned short-sightedness and non-constructive thinking. That is not what I see here who opposes your position. These people are valuing substance over self indulgence and superficiality.

    Posted by Beatman | March 11, 2008, 9:27 am

37. Not my analogy or definition…I obtained it from Wikipedia. Yes, it does exist everywhere but from my observations and experiences, “the crab mentality” is more prevalent among indigenous people. For clarification, I wholeheartedly feel and understand your viewpoints and I reiterate, it is for the superficiality and politics of dealing with Filipino productions that I have encountered in the past and chose to avoid for many years. This particular event, for me, is a start to do something of relevance.

    Just because many of the honorees are in the limelight (beautiful or not), you cannot discount their outlook and goals in life to uplift and strives to create positive images of Filipinos. I can’t speak for all of them, but I do know some of them personally and am inspired by their character and contributions.

    Listening to their acceptance speeches gave me insight to those I didn’t know well or at all. I was surprised at the depth of character of quite a few.

    The sad thing is…some of the people who posted here already wrote off the event before it even happened. You want a show that can meet your standards of being “Visionary”? Get involved.

    Posted by Sonny Sison | March 11, 2008, 10:39 am

38. I am not a member of the media, or a producer, or even someone who attended the event. Too expensive! LOL I did however look over the “usual suspects” involved in getting Visionary awards and I had a chuckle. Even though it was mostly entertainers and celebrities like it always is in the adobo circuit I find it amusing that the leaders (people with money) in my community considers certain entertainment figures “visionaries” when all they do is try to imitate better American and European artists instead of doing something original and Pilipino. There is one girl lately who is bringing Tagalog music to the mainstream masses named Charmaine Clamor and she was listed as a presenter but she did not get an award or perform at the ceremony to the best of my knowledge. If you would like an example of what she is doing you can check out: http://youtube.com/watch?v=sHpYQrWtGE4
    I think she is probably more well-known among NON-Filipinos because she doesn’t run around trying to emulate Sharon or Lani or whoever. She is doing her VISION, which is certainly a Pilipino one. I am proud that Charmaine is Pinay AND she celebrates the fact. My point is that there are visionaries out there and maybe in future years these kind of extravaganzas will recognize them instead of repackaging the same old stuff that doesn’t really uplift the Philippines or the Filipino-American population. Mabuhay!

    Posted by SwingingFlip | March 11, 2008, 11:34 am

39. This to me is also a very strong statement of Pinoy Pride that speaks to Pilipinos AND our American brothers and sisters.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sHpYQrWtGE4

    This to me has a real VISION. Just my two cents. Mabuhay!

    Posted by SwingingFlip | March 11, 2008, 1:43 pm

40. Why say “THERE IS NOTHING VISIONARY” with Martin, Jasmine, and Anna Maria Perez de Tagle? If you think that these people don’t deserve to be recognized by the Philippine society, do you think you are as an individual? I think this is not the way to help the organizers improve or make better next year. Constructive critisicisms are good, but hitting people personally is not.

    Posted by Shiessay | March 11, 2008, 3:20 pm

41. SwingingFlip: I saw Charmaine Clamor perform her songs like the “My Brown Pinay” at the Filipino Library Gala at the Biltmore and I would agree with you that she is a very powerful artist with a strong and proud Pinoy vision. I have bought her CDs and I support her because I believe she represents me and my heritage very well. HOWEVER, what you have to realize is that until she “makes it” as a gossip subject in the Filipino press or gets on an American TV show our community won’t take her too seriously. Unfortunately, we equate celebrity with visionary. That’s just the way it is.

    Posted by Albert | March 11, 2008, 4:25 pm

42. It looks more now what is happening here. We, Pilipino-Americans, living in America do not need your heroes, celebrities, politicians as such. We want our own heroes and you cannot force these pretty, beautiful, glamorous icons of Manila and the handful of Americans claiming to be Pilipinos as our role models. There are enough Pilipino Americans here tht we can rally and support. There is really no not need to force feed us with celebrities that are not relevant here. I am aware of Charmaine and she is my idea of a real talent. I can also name Xavier Alonzo as a great local R & B rocker.

    Posted by Beatman | March 11, 2008, 7:16 pm

43. In reply to BEATMAN, I would like to say that although I agree with your opinion of the great Charmaine Clamor, you must also acknowledge that this “role model” is not known hardly at all compared to the glamorous icons of Manila. I would predict that when Charmaine does her next concerts in Hollywood on April 4-5, there will be LESS Filipinos there than Americans. Until that changes you can understand why the Visionary Awards producers pick someone like Kuh Ledesma or Martin Nievera to symbolize what Filipinos can offer the world, even if they don’t have the same level of original artistry as Charmaine.

    Posted by #1CharmaineFan | March 11, 2008, 9:17 pm

44. Hey Beatman, go ahead, you can finance and organize your own event. Maybe you can do better. For sure, I will be there to support you. Hopefully, it will be noticed by the Filipino community. Goodluck! See you there!

    Posted by Shiessay | March 11, 2008, 10:52 pm

45. And then perhaps we’ll provide you with our own nice opinion…Is that fair?

    Posted by celticinla | March 11, 2008, 11:09 pm

46. Hi all, the crab mentality didn’t work at Journey’s Planet Hollywood Concert last March 8, 2008 which is coming out on DVD in June.

    Arnel Pineda just rocked Las Vegas and will be embarking on a European Tour.

    Check out the video clip at http://www.philippinepressclub.com

    Be proud.

    Posted by Jay Fermin (Pinoy Wired) | March 11, 2008, 11:57 pm

47. To all who are posting comments, THANK YOU!!!! As one of the producers of the Visionary Awards, I, for one, welcome these comments because they show the diverse backgrounds and experiences and perspectives we all have both as individuals as well as Filipinos and/or Filipino-Americans.

    I came on board to help with the last stages of putting the production on, so a lot of the awardees, as well as content, of the event had been selected before my tenure began. So my main focus was purely to help the show go on.

    I agree with some of these comments as an American born & bred Filipino. Some of my personal heroes include Larry Itliong, Philip Veracruz, Carlos Bulosan, Vicky Manalo Draves, Carlos Romulo, and Emil Mijares (recently deceased). Ever hear of Sugar Pie de los Santos, the phenom blues singer? How about Dean Devlin, one of a handful of Hollywood producers? I also admire Jessica Hagedorn and Jeannie Barroga, two wonderful playwrights of immense talent [I had the honor of co-producing "Dogeaters" at the Kirk Douglas Theater last year and hope to produce one of Jeannie's many plays in the future]. The reason why these trailblazers and true visionaries aren’t readily known is that Filipino American history is not as prevalent and if one didn’t sit in on a Fil-Am History class in college, one couldn’t know of the contributions of these people unless they read or listened or heard from others.

    I’m hoping that they can be remembered and/or honored at the (hopefully) next Visionary Awards event.

    Jennifer, I don’t understand your comment about being “saints of goodwill” as I don’t think the show was meant to do that. I serve on the Board of Directors of the ABS-CBN Foundation (our main program is “Bantay Bata”) and duly try my best to raise monies for the abused and neglected children back home. I see many of my generation also helping with GK and the Ayala Foundation, and that really makes me proud knowing that folks here care a lot about folks, especially children, back in the Philippines.

    Charmaine#1fan + all Clamor supporters - I AM Charmaine’s manager and I appreciate your comments about her music and about her vision for empowering Filipinos with her message (actually, the first time I heard “My Funny Brown Pinoy”, I got goosebumps) — so, yes, please tell your friends to catch her at Catalina Bar & Grill on 4/4 and/or 4/5 (sorry for the plug folks). She has 2 CD’s coming out this year! Charmaine, BTW, was completely blown away by meeting Dolphy and Nora Aunor, her childhood idols (proof yet again that you can the girl out of the Philippines, but you can’t take the Philippines out the girl).

    Beatman, please include Manog Philip in when you mention Cesar. Philip co-founded the United Farm Workers Union and was an essential part of it’s leadership. When I was at UCLA, we tried to help out Agbayani Village as best we could with monetary contributions and actually Manong Philip had sent a thank you letter to us for remembering the manongs that lived there.

    Now, about the other “forgotten” visionaries or awardees that many of you mentioned….

    Many others were considered to receive awards, including Lea (whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with). However, the selection committee felt that it would be best if they could receive their awards in person and actually, some potential awardees agreed. Lou Diamond Phillips had wanted to be with us at the inaugural event but asked us to hold his awards until (hopefully) some other time. Lea had a concert in Hawaii and could not make the event. Sharon Cuneta was in Europe and could not make the event. I’m hoping we can award Chad Hugo a Visionary at a future time; I also think Patricio Ginelsa, who actually came and raved about the event, is another visionary that should be honored.

    It was a give and take with these artists but we respected their wishes to hold their awarding in the hope they could be part of the event in years to come and should their schedules permit.

    In defense of other names in this blog, I can only speak from my experiences with them. Let’s take Martin Nievera….never heard of the guy until 4 years ago when he did a fundraiser I was producing. Come to know him as an artist (most people don’t know he also writes some amazing songs), and find out that he shares the same hope and dream for future Filipino-American artists who want to pursue such careers. In his own way, he tries to uplift the profile of Filipino entertainers not only in the Philippines, but here in the U.S. as well and I admire him for that.

    Jasmine Trias is the nicest person one could ever meet. For me, having gotten as far on “Idol” was inspirational because she did “represent”. If it wasn’t her, then it would have been another Filipino on that show. How would we have welcomed/treated/thought of him or her? [BTW: Jasmine just performed; she wasn't an awardee].

    Here’s my bottom line: this event was going to happen with or without me. I was asked to help, and I did so. Did I know all of the awardees? No. Did I think some awardees were overlooked? Yes. Could the production have been better, more representative of our people, our different generations? Sure. Is there room for improvement? Always.

    But this was the first one (one which we had a little less than 5 weeks to produce) and I think it did prove, on some level, that BOTH Filipinos and Fiipino-Americans can work together for the purpose of uplifting our talents, our culture and our people.

    Posted by Ted Benito | March 12, 2008, 1:15 am

48. Ted, Point well taken.

    Posted by Si SHE ito | March 12, 2008, 11:10 am

49. @Ted: The phrase “saints of goodwill” was a response to Sonny’s question, “I’d like to ask a question to those criticizing the event. With respect, what have you done to promote our people with goodwill, their contributions, and our legacies? Aside from casting your opinions.” Reading some of the names listed as “visionaries” was just laughable mainly because of the names that were not included in the list. Just sad. I wanted to be proud of this event. The opportunity was there to showcase the best of the best. But, “he who has the gold, rules” in this awarding right? Their choice, their “wills” be done. Just because this Filipino event was held at the Kodak Theater doesn’t mean that all Filipinos must agree with the organizers that all the awardees are visionaries or else be labeled as having a “crab mentality” or cynical etc. Beatman said it well, “It would have been better to call this event — The Philippine Artists and Entertainment Awards — instead of Visionary.” A tie-up perhaps to the organizing company’s music production business here?

    The organizers brought the event to the level of regular Fil-Am awards held here in California by falling short of our expectations and our understanding of what a visionary is. It was a credibility issue. It became like another glamor and fashion awards show here in L.A. with a superlative title in a much more expensive venue with many more celebrities for photo ops. I went to the website of NuVision and saw the talented and exceptional members of the NuVision team. I thought to myself, this Ramil Gonzales is one I would define as a visionary and who I would encourage my children and nephews to view as one of their role models. It’s surprising to see that the organizers couldn’t find at least three other Filipinos like Gonzales to add to the list of their Visionary Awardees.

    So I, for one, am glad you cleared up some issues posted above, Ted. Thank you. I won’t ask why the organizers decided to produce the event in less than 5 weeks. You did what you had to do so that the Filipino ship won’t sink big time at the Kodak Theater. I sincerely hope that the organizers will take more time and more care in their production next year. MAKE US PROUD!

    Posted by Jennifer | March 12, 2008, 11:22 am

50. Hi Jennifer. Thank YOU for your comments and understanding. Philippine Arts & Entertainment Awards would have been a great name as well. I think I see this awards celebration moving beyond recognizing people in the arts & entertainment and I would like to include people and organizations in public service, medicine and research, humanitarian services and sports & politics. Hopefully, I will be able to work with NuVision on future projects (if they still need me).

    I appreciate our dialogue on this forum (thanks to PinoyWired for providing) because it shows just how all of us can contribute ideas and thoughts in a contructive and positive manner.

    Regardless of our experiences here or throughout the world, I think Filipinos have a genuine affinity to help each other and the community of Filipinos as a whole. We CAN agree to disagree - that’s the best part.

    For me as a producer, my personal goal is to produce and promote the talents of our kababayan in any media form — stage, film, tv, concert, live events, etc. I see no difference in producing a concert for Lea than producing a “Tawag Ng Tanghalan”-type event to showcase up and coming young singers/actors. To me, Filipinos are some of the most gifted and talented people in the world. And I’d just like to see us get our due respect and recognition on the world stage and in the pages of history.

    Glitz and glamour aside, it’s what these artists, politicians, etc. do — or try to do –in their daily lives or in their life-long career or with their stature/celebrity that should be meaningful.

    Let’s take apl.de.ap. Last November, I was able to help out in producing his birthday bash to raise monies for his own foundation, which he started last year. He told me, “Ted, I just wanna paint schools” [in Pampanga, his home province] which he actually did when he went back home last year — bought some paint, herded some friends, painted some schools. His overall goal is to give back to his province and home town in the best way he can.

    Now, I don’t know many 2-time Grammy award winners, but hearing apl say stuff like this and being able to help him with that goal is reason enough for me to acknowledge he is more than just his (or the Peas’) music.

    Let’s take Martin. Last year, he did 4 concerts in 2 months, 3 of them one week after another. All of them were fundraisers, including the one I produced for A3M, the Asians for Miracle Marrow Matches. In total, he raised over $150,000 for local charities last year.

    Lea Salonga flew all the way from Manila on her own dime to help raise funds for “Bantay Bata” at the ABS-CBN gala dinner I co-produced in December.

    Charmaine is making an effort to reach out to the student groups at universities and giving them incentives to earn a percentage of ticket prices to her shows for their scholarship funds or academic endeavors.

    And, if anyone cares, Cher Calvin, Tamlyn Tomita, Giselle Tongi and Janet Choi are all doing “The Vagina Monologues” this Saturday at the JACCC in Little Tokyo to help raise awareness of Violence Against Women and as a fundraiser for CPAF.

    Each of us does as we can. I’m hoping we can all move forward together.

    If anyone cares to comment outside this forum, please feel free to contact me at ted@tdrz.net.

    Posted by Ted Benito | March 12, 2008, 12:55 pm

51. Ted…well put. One of my reasons for defending the event so passionately was seeing how hard “behind the scenes people” worked to make it happen and I applaud your energy and efforts.

    Posted by Sonny Sison | March 12, 2008, 1:14 pm

52. @Ted Benito: Thank you Ted for shedding light on the background of production challenges that people usually do not see. Well taken.

    Also on the celebs that were honored, based on years working with most of them, behind the famous Filipino face, whether in Entertainment, or otherwise, one can usually find a BIG heart. That’s just how Filipinos are wired.

    You mentioned Apl.de.ap’s birthday fundraiser and I was one of the members of media who covered the event last November at the Vanguard Club , and just listening to him on the red carpet explain his intent to send help to the Leyte flood victims in front of mainstream American print and TV cameras in the middle of Hollywood, USA, was just amazing.

    I have worked with Martin as well as numerous stars and despite the struggles and the hectic schedule, its the private endeavours to help that strike me as amazing - taking take time out to give back to the community, and that in itself is truly awesome.

    I appreciate your clarifying post on this thread and hoping for a better Visionary Award in the future.

    Jay Fermin
    Pinoywired

    Posted by Jay Fermin | March 12, 2008, 5:12 pm

53. Thank you all for your comments! It’s our privilege to host this forum.

    @TED BENITO - Please feel free to send us announcements about the events you are involved in.

    @TED BENITO & @SONNY SIS0N - It would be a shame if NuVision does not include you in their next Visionary Awards show or in other projects. You’ve held up strong for the organizers in this forum. Thank you for giving us a glimpse of the other side of the story.

    Posted by Admin | March 12, 2008, 5:13 pm

54. Well, looks like things settled down quite a bit here. That is great. This is my last post here and it seems like everybody’s opinion has already been heard. My hope for us Pilipino-Americans here in the future is to maybe recognized some of the children of immigrants here, their talents and accomplishements, Not necessarily in the performing arts but in affecting social change, overcoming obstacles and in whatever dream they try to achieve. I will tell you what really bugged me was that the Pilipino community here and back home almost completely disrecognized somebody like Joey Santiago. I have never seen any Pilipino event give this guy his props. This guy was the lead guitarists and one of the founders of the Pixies. A band that revolutionized rock. Maybe too punk and alternative but revolutionary. Bands that admit being heavily influenced by the Pixies include Nirvana, Bush, Foo Fighters, Queens of the Stone Age. There is even an active website on “Bands Influenced By The Pixies”. Another musician not recognized by the Pilipino-American community is Curt Bisquera, a real talented session drummer. Curt has played with Tom Petty, Elton John (during a Grammy telecast), Mick Jagger and a lot of other elite rock acts. When you get a chance google these guys and you will be amazed at what they are accomplishing. Both grew up in America. Joey immigrated with his parents during the Marcos regime at the age of 7 and Curt was born in Santa Maria, CA. A town that is populated by decendants of early Pilipino migrant workers. Both also do not seem to fit the glossy image that some Pilipinos seem to welcome. Let us also not forget the lesser known Pilipino-Americans who strive for better social change, those who want to contribute to make this a better world than they found it and those who overcome roadblocks to fulfill a dream. Not just in film and music. Magandang gabi sa inyong lahat.

    Posted by Beatman | March 12, 2008, 9:37 pm

55. Ang kabakyaan ng Pinoy ang ipinakita sa Kodak Theater. Kung ibinigay na lamang ninyo sa mga mahihirap sa Pilipinas iyang ibinayad ninyo sa Kodak Theater at sa mga alalay ninyo, eh di lalo kayong hahangaan. Sabi lang ng sabi sa tumutulung sa kababayan eh mas malaki pa ang ginastos sa Kodak!! Mga trying hard na mapansin ng mga Americano. And Kodak Theater na ba ang status symbol ninyo ngayon. Kung talagang mayroon kayong pagmamahal sa mga kababayan ninyo, eh di ibinigay na lang ninyo sa Gawad Kalinga o Bantay Bata! Napaka-fake talaga ang mga nagsusulat na tumulong daw sa event. Eh binayaran naman kayo.

    Posted by Dalisay M. | March 13, 2008, 10:23 am

56. Huy…Dalisay…pinabili ka lang ng suka sa kanto…tsumismis ka na…hala…uwi na at yan ang natutunan mo sa mga kwentong barbero!!! Hala…Uwi!

    Posted by Bibby | March 13, 2008, 10:30 pm

57. Huwag kang matigas ang ulo at tapos na kwentuhan dito…Mga mama…pakisara na lang ho…pagpasensyahan nyo na ho at nakikigulo…Hala…sabi nang uwi eh!

    Posted by Bibby | March 13, 2008, 10:33 pm

58. Bibby: Isa ka pang bayaran ng mga nagtanghal ng kabakyaan sa Kodak Theater. At dahil siguro hindi naiintindihan ng puti itong mga isinusulat natin.

    Let me restate that: You are probably one of the paid goons of the visionary awards organizers who mock those who are posting their opinions here.

    Do you think you can effectively squash down all those who do not agree with you and the organizers what a Visionary is supposed to be? Entertainers and sports figures et al? Egads. The show really fell short of our expectations. And we have a right to say so. Your standards are probably so low so you’re happy with what you’ve got.

    In case you didn’t know this is not the only forum that many expressed their disappointment that the awardees were limited to movie, tv, sports celebrities. So go bother them there, or have you tried to squash their voices as well?

    Man, didn’t you guys do any planning? Did you think all of us will be so starstruck and then impressed with the Kodak Theater that we all will agree with all the press releases you put out? Geez.

    Have a good evening

    Posted by Dalisay M. | March 14, 2008, 12:39 am

59. Ed’s NOTE:

    All comments here are welcome. The staff of Pinoywired.com thank all who gave their own opinion. However, it still is your own opinion. We, the members of media, have the duty of responsible journalism and we will report events, views and opinions as such. We are not in any way compensated nor connected to event producers, companies or entities with special interest. We are an independendent world-wide news, entertainment and opinion outlet.

    With that, please share your views and agree to disagree with others having different views. We call that democracy.

    Thank you again for the posts

    Posted by Jay Fermin (Pinoy Wired) | March 14, 2008, 6:59 am

60. to Dalisay and Bibby…you guys are funny! LOL! The subject (FAVA) is closed so please stop.

    Can we talk on something else like you know, the political situation in PI is getting worse…what do you think guys? is Gloria needs to resign? or kakapalan pa nya yung mukha nya at magstay sa position nya?

    Any healthy, intriguing discussion…anyone?

    Posted by Si SHE ito | March 14, 2008, 10:17 am

61. To Dalisay: Don’t ever say “KABAKYAAN NG PINOY”!!! Eh di inamin mo rin na kasama ka sa mga BAKYA! I think the chosen awardees deserved to be recognized dahil sa mga achievements nila, not for their imperfections.

    Posted by Spiderman | March 14, 2008, 10:36 am

62. Dalisay, in additon, do you really think that people are getting paid to disagree with you! Maybe, you are for being unhelpful……Not nice to say, huh?
    Bibby, some people were born negative, or just “KULANG SA PANSIN”. Please don’t mind these people. Wala lang magawa iyan.. or maybe, naiiinggit kasi di sila nakasama sa project…. It’s always hard to please everybody!

    Posted by Spiderman | March 14, 2008, 11:48 am

63. Dalisay, were you in the Press Conference? Did you happen to see the people (Filipinos and Non-Filipinos) that were part of the event? This event is not only the work of the Filipinos.
    For me, I congratulate the organizers of the event. Being able to put up a project like this with the help of other successful non-Filipinos, you prove what Filipinos can do. You should all be proud. Whether some people will agree or disagree with me, in some way, the organizers, made me proud to be a Filipino. Congratulations!

    Posted by Shiessay | March 14, 2008, 12:05 pm

64. Dalisay…Daaay…hinay ka lang…nagbasa ka ba mula tuktok hanggang paanan…nagka-ayos na nga at ginulo mo ulit…naintindihan na nga ang purpose at binakya mo…kung ako sa iyo dalhin mo na lang frustration mo sa Friendster at dun ka makigulo sa mga katulad mong pintasera…tingnan mo…sino ngayon ang mukhang katawatawa….dont accuse people especially if you do not know them! dont be a mad dog judging everyone…tingin ko galit ka sa mundo…

    Posted by Diomedes | March 14, 2008, 1:27 pm

65. Hi I am back, I though this was over but thanks to Dalisay and the people responding it is not. Dalisay made a comment in tagalog that asked “why not just donate the money you spent for this event to organizations that help the the needy and less fortunate, it would have been much more fulfilling”. Reasonable question, very insulting answers. I do not know, is this an antipathetic display of arrogance when somebody questions and opposes your position that you respond with hostility and demean the person who contradicts you. Why don’t all of you just answer her truthfully and with dignity.

    Posted by beatman | March 14, 2008, 4:08 pm

66. “is this an antipathetic display of arrogance when somebody questions and opposes your position that you respond with hostility and demean the person who contradicts you”

    case is closed, then. who started the provocation? dalisay, right? did you ever know that the pet project is to assist the philippine medical society based in NorCal who’s helping the needy pertaining to medical issues in our country?

    this why these are happening coz in the first place you really have no idea what’s going on and what are the future plans of the organizers … by the way, i am not being paid by nobody, but incidentally, i attended the gala and realized everything’s for the betterment of all and turned me being very proud of my countrymen. i just feel that its so easy to castigate the people behind this while you haven’t had the chance to observe their cause.

    as i’ve mentioned earlier, everyone, every great pinoy will have their chance to be recognized. the chance to continually help the needy in our country is very feasible.

    Posted by celticinla | March 14, 2008, 11:01 pm

67. Beatman - thank you. You said it better than I ever could.

    Celticinla - your “by the way, i am not being paid by nobody” is striking because I recall responding to a bibby about a paid goon. You do seem defensive. Admin, is this person using two user names or more here?

    As far as I know, I have the right to speak my mind. If it provoked any of you, that’s your problem not mine.

    What case is closed and who closed it? Your case perhaps.

    Ah yes, the charitable donation to PMSNC. As I recall, it costs at least $100,000 not counting other fees to use the Kodak Theater. So is NuVision donating or have they donated at least $100,000 to PMSNC? Well, that’ll be great. Good for both of them.

    As you mentioned above, of course the organizers have future plans, NuVision is a business after all. It would shock me if they haven’t any plans at all. Right now, the issue is about the Visionary Awards last Friday. If they do better in the future, good for them.

    You cannot guarantee the future plans of the company unless you are a part of the company and work on it. And remember this, you cannot stop people from posting their opinions in different fora just by saying the “case is closed”

    I did see a post somewhere stating that the Visionary Awards was a success. So rest on your laurels there, you don’t need to be provoked nor be defensive at what anybody else says, unless it isn’t true.

    Posted by Dalisay M | March 15, 2008, 12:57 am

68. @DALISAY M: Our Privacy Policy prohibits me from disclosing any private or personal information about the users of this site including yourself.

    There are exceptions to this policy, but not in this case.

    For more information, please go to http://pinoywired.com/privacy-policy/.

    Thank you.

    Posted by Admin | March 15, 2008, 1:21 am

69. Ah Dalisay, it seems that you have an idea how much it costs to use Kodak Theatre…

    Does anybody here have that idea? Where did you get that information? Did you inquire this directly or did you produce an event there already? Or maybe, you are a part of the production?

    Do you have a better feasibility to organize such event in the Kodak Theatre or wherever place you want it hold? You’ve disclosed an amount, please explain. You’re comments or opinions are welcome.
    But you’ve pointed on people by judging them with one of your statements above when you said to Bibby,” Isa ka pang bayaran ng mga nagtanghal ng kabakyaan sa Kodak Theater.” You’ve started it. If you were not satisfied with what the organizers did last March 7, instead of saying “kabakyaan ng pinoy” & “paka-fake talaga ang mga nagsusulat na tumulong daw sa event”, try to think of something else better. Or best, support your own in one way or the other.

    Posted by celticinla | March 15, 2008, 11:08 am

70. You know what, Im really proud to be Filipino but what I think about the Visionary awards is cheap. Sorry but Im just voicing my opinion.

    They awarded people who arent so deserving. I mean..Joey DeLeon? Francis magalona? OMG. those names arent even being heard everyday on TV. They are missing so much people to really award and I know so many Filipinoes out there who should be awarded..You know I think they shouldve also had more performances…Why didnt the Filipino all stars perform? Where was Lea Salonga? Where was Charice Pempengco? Where was Nicole frm PCD? Cassie maybe? And many more?

    They lack awardees and they shouldve also awarded filipinoes who are outside the entertainment industry. You know what I think, the organizers were just too eager to show the world that Filipinos have faces in this world. I dont think they really intended to award the REAL deserving notable Filipinoes. They shouldve had some presentations about Filipinos and being one actually..thats what I think..Because some filipino actors/actresses deny that they are Filipino which is very sad.

    They shouldve done more..I MEAN A LOT actually…Call me ignorant but thats just how I see it..Seriously…Who did they award again? Hayy..very cheap..

    But I still have my hopes up for the next visionary awards..hope they do stuff to improve..after all..they first try isnt always perfect!

    IM STILL PROUD TO BE PINOY!

    Posted by Ray | March 15, 2008, 9:14 pm

71. Ano ba naman kayo dito sa PinoyWired.com, isara na ninyo itong comments. Bakit pa ba ninyong pinapayagang iladlad ang mga problema at mga samaan ng loob sa Visionary Awards? Personalan na ang ibang isinasabi dito.

    Posted by ART the Man | March 16, 2008, 12:46 pm

72. Siguro kulang kayo sa pansin. Nabasa ko ang ibang posts ninyo at wala namang kasing rami na comments dito.
    Naka-tsamba kayo ano?

    Posted by ART the Man | March 16, 2008, 12:54 pm

73. why on earth chad hugo is not on the list? hellllloooo? GRAMMY AWARD WINNER

    Posted by tin | March 16, 2008, 10:03 pm

74. @ART:

    Isa - We are under no obligation to close down the comments of this post. We believe in the freedom of speech - one of the reasons we did not delete your comments - and the freedom of the press.

    Dalawa - Be assured that we do not tolerate profanities, racial and sexist slurs, obscene or sexually explicit language, among others and have deleted comments that contained such content.

    Tatlo - Our website has had high online traffic since we officially launched PinoyWired.com August last year. Admittedly, the number of comments have never reached this high before. Somehow the Visionary Awards event touched some nerves in our community and this site provided a venue for people to praise or vent.

    Thank you.

    Posted by Admin | March 16, 2008, 11:50 pm

75. Mabuhay to all (again).

    Thank you for the continued comments on the Visionary Awards. I am glad that the event sparked so much interesting dialogue; we actually need more of this kind of discourse in our community in order to celebrate more of our similarities as Filipinos and Filipino-Americans and learn about differing opinions (thanks again to PinoyWired for providing a forum).

    I felt compelled to clarify a few things since my last entry.

    Spiderman is correct: it’s always hard to please everybody. I’ve learned, as a producer, that that is always the case with each and every project — it’s hard to please everybody. But usually, that’s not the driving purpose for me in my own endeavors. Whether it be a play, a concert, a live event or such, my purpose is to the promote and present Filipino and Filipino-American talent in the best possible manner. Producers take the risks - financial and otherwise - in planning events so that the talents of our people can be exposed, hopefully to a broader audience.

    I don’t think the producers of the Visionary Awards had as a goal to please everyone. If that were the case, I don’t think the event would have ever happened. But, as I said in a previous entry, the event was going to happen regardless of my participation; but because I was asked to assist in the final stages, I did so. And I’m glad I was given the opportunity to do so.

    To Celticinla: indeed, the chance to help not only the future of the Philippines, but also the future of Filipinos in the U.S. is always feasible. We all do what we can.

    For example, SIPA is celebrating yet another anniversary with their annual fundraiser on April 26th. One of the eldest community-based organizations we have in L.A. needs support to continue their programming, especially since their target demographic are the youth of the Historic Filipinotown community. Please check out http://www.esipa.org for more information.

    To Ray and Tin: Yes, invitations were sent to the artists you mentioned. Chad Hugo (who is actually working with apl.de.ap in apl’s upcoming solo CD) had a very hectice schedule. Lea Salonga could not be with us in person due to a prior commitment. Nicole Scherzinger was duly sent an invitation but her management did not return any of our communiques (I even invited Ron Fair to the event). Charice was so eager and excited to perform at the Kodak, but there were problems with her schedule and other prior commitments. As Celticinla said, hopefully these and other Filipinos will get their share of recognition in the future.

    To Dalisay: it would be great if you can visit the NuVision website and submit your comments to their contact person(s). See http://www.nuvisionworldwidemedia.com. I’m sure that they will appreciate your perspective and comments.

    I think there is so much potential our community has for success in all our endeavors and part of that involves supporting our artists and talents.

    I was just channel surfing the other day and was surprised to see how many Filipinos are on TV! Cris Judd is a judge on “Your Mama Can’t Dance”; Mark Dacascos is the Chairman on “Iron Chef America”; there are 2 dance team on “The Best Dance Crew in America” that are composed of Filipinos; Ramiele Malubay is a finalist on AI; Cheryl Burke starts another season of DWTS.

    It’s also a good time to catch live entertainment from Filipino performers: Charmaine Clamor is at Catalina Bar & Grill 4/4 and 4/5 (debuting some new, exciting “harana/kundiman” songs from her upcoming CD); Jennifer Paz will be re-uniting with some first national tour members in the upcoming production of “Miss Saigon” at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center; Martin Nievera and Lea Salonga each have upcoming concerts at Sycuan Casino; Sarah Geronimo and other artists will be in Anaheim on the 3/29 weekend.

    Some of you may have heard of all these folks; some of you may not like all these folks. I, for one, appreciate them for what they do as artists who are trying to promote Filipino culture and talent in positive ways.

    Thanks for reading.
    Ted Benito (ted@tdrz.net).

    Posted by Ted Benito | March 17, 2008, 1:05 pm

76. Thanks Ted for the follow-up comment. We at Pinoywired do understand the challenges of production and its intent. We also respect the opinion and views of others who tend to differ otherwise. I agree with you that opinions are valuable and healthy, sort of like a 360 degree feedback forum. However, at the end of the day, we do hope that we as Fil-Ams and or Filipinos would be proud in the areas that connect us together and be forgiving in the areas of difference.

    Posted by Jay Fermin (Pinoy Wired) | March 17, 2008, 6:45 pm

77. Here we go again…. aaahh-nother array of pathetic spectacles of filipino clowns parading themselves on the red carpet. Seriously, what have these people done for the community.

    Posted by Ever Rest | March 18, 2008, 6:08 pm

78. After all is said and all opinions voiced what did this event really accomplish. It showed that Pilipinos can put together a glitzy occasion in a world class venue such as the Kodak Theatre. It also showed that our “Visionaries” are ex basketball players, entertainment industry celebrities, showbiz personalities turned politicians. Almost all are more popular in the Philippines and the children of Pilipino immigrants here could not care less. Now, what does it say to America and the rest of the world. Our “Visionaries” are celebrities and politicians who really have not done anything to improve the plight of the mother country except that they are very beautiful people. Does this event and what it stands for, promote a positive image to Pilipinos? My answer is no. At best it shows that Pilipinos do not know the meaning of “Visionary” or our idea of “Visionary” are movie stars, celebrities and basketball players turned politicians. At worst the event portrays us as self-indulgent people enamored by glamour, glitz and a total disregard to substance. What the promoters do not know is that they dragged me and the rest who do not share this portrayal of a Pilipino by calling this a Pilipino event. Not all of us adore media magnets. Not all of us are that hallow. All the event accomplished was prove that a group of Pilipino promoters can put together an event to honor celebrities from Manila but disregard the Pilipinos here who have made a difference. We are in America. Events like this depicts decadence of the few. There are a lot of us Pilipinos here in America who do not share this viewpoint. This event was just another red carpet photo op. This event was held in a cosmopolitan area like Los Angeles where it is subjected to more analysis. People in here tend to be more jaded and look beyond the pretense. This is not Manila. And as Ray said “Im still proud to be Pinoy”.

    Posted by Beatman | March 18, 2008, 8:30 pm

79. Beatman - you said it all so succintly. Bravo!

    Ted - I find your advice to give my comments in NuVision’s website amusing. Maybe you mean well … but give my email address to a site which a) does not have a disclaimer about not sending spam messages nor b) does not have any assurance that they will not sell my contact information to third-parties, is plainly ridiculous.

    Posted by Dalisay M | March 20, 2008, 3:40 pm

80. Well instead of arguing those small pity things, why dont you all guys give and an attention to your mother country?Dont you know that theres lots of nice important things to be topic and argued?well I think piniy pa rin kayo kahit saang sulok ng mundo, mahilig sa tsismis…
    And to u miss si she ito, do u understand what ur talking about?HELLO as in BIG hello??knock knock????wala ka naman atang alam sa buhay eh..ano ka dancer na nagsasayaw kung saan na pilit abutin ang bituin na hindi naman magniningning?hehehe..kakahiya ka….U know both talents of big networks like GMA and ABS-CBN, deserves to be acknowledge and be praised ..ikaw ano talent mo?ha? magbalerena sa plasa? yan kasi di ka nanood ng GMA palibhasa iisa channel nyo…

    Posted by concerned lang | March 28, 2008, 2:19 am

81. concerened lang…i was surprised by your comment on me (coz I thought the subject has been long dead). wow, you’re not that harsh huh..and you’re not that arrogant either. Well, i respect you whoever you are -as a human being or whatever. but I don’t want to get involve with you cheap, uneducated conversation. Thank you. God bless…

    Posted by Si SHE ito | April 5, 2008, 8:31 pm

82. I have taken the time to read all of the comments on this thread, all I can offer as a comment is Hope. Hope for improvement in the motherland! Hope that the talents of our fellow filipinos will continue to flourish beyond the compounds of our community and into the world community! Hope that we will find tolerance for others’ opinions and ideas. Hope that positivity spreads. Hope that we continue to express ourselves in all walks of life. Hope that our filipino brothers and sisters will continue to entertain, educate, aid and inspire others as they have done so for many generations. In the words of my sister Kuttin Kandi, I take this stance, Isang Mahal!

    Posted by Cindy Custodio | April 15, 2008, 8:35 pm

83. @ Cindy Custodio: Thanks for the comment. Yes, without HOPE, the people perish. Hope though comes from vision and vision comes from an open and accepting mind.

    Thanks for the positive post

    Posted by Jay Fermin (pinoy wired) | April 18, 2008, 8:57 pm

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