Sen. Loren legarda with Ifugao kids

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Loren Legarda is bent on the immediate rehabilitation of the Ifugao Rice Terraces. For this, she has enjoined government agencies and other entities to help in her campaign.

During her ocular of the Bangaan cluster of the Rice Terraces, the Senator saw the need to adopt an area of the terraces for rehabilitation as a pilot project, which would hopefully jumpstart efforts to preserve this national heritage.

Moreover, Legarda expressed dismay over the structure of the houses that were no longer reminiscent of the traditional Ifugao homes.

“The traditional Ifugao houses not only preserve the aesthetic value of the terraces but also protect residents from harsh weather conditions. The sturdy structure of an Ifugao house is able to withstand strong typhoons and earthquakes. This is more relevant today as we experience extreme weather events caused by climate change,” she pointed out.

During the consultation at the Banaue Hotel with government officials and community stakeholders, the Senator brought up the issue about non-compliance with the Philippine Mining Act of some small scale mining companies, particularly those in the municipality of Hungduan, home to one of the five rice terrace clusters inscribed in the World Heritage List.

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‘In The Heights’ Musical Returns

Being staged anew is Atlantis Productions and Tony award-winning musical “In The Heights.” The limited repeat run is ongoing until March 25 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City.

“In The Heights,” winner of four Tony Awards including Best Musical, and locally, Aliw Awards Best Ensemble Cast, is directed by Bobby Garcia. Featured are: Nyoy Volante, Jackie Lou Blanco, Image Castro, Calvin Millado, Texas Ordonez, K-La Rivera, Felix Rivera, Bibo Reyes, Jimmy Marquez, and Jay Glorioso (who also won an Aliw Awards for her role as Abuela Claudia).

Nyoy received critical acclaim and Aliw nomination for his biggest musical role to date as Usnavi.

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Jake Vargas Is BNY Endorser

Teenage actor Jake Vargas copes with the death of his mother by concentrating on work. He said he credits mentor, German Moreno for his support. “Kuya Germs has been very supportive. Isa siyang ‘tatay’ na napakabait at matulungin,” Jake said.

The 19-year-old actor from Olongapo City is currently seen in “Alice Bungisngis and Her Wonder Walis,” “Walang Tulugan with the Master Showman,” “Pepito Manaloto” and “Reel Love Presents: Tween Hearts.” He is also in the currently showing movie “My Kontrabida Girl,” starring Rhian Ramos and Aljur Abrenica.

Jake, who also sings and plays guitar, signed up recently as the newest endorser of BNY Unltd.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 19, go to Joey Albert, Joe Nicolas, Girlie Rodis, Bibsy Carballo, Kay Seva Rebano, Josie Vergel de Dios, Margarita Castro, Sam Bayani Ortiz, Mercedes “Nena” Sunico, Josie Tobias, Jocelyn M. Gerilla, Tina Tolentino, Aloha Joyce “AJ” Calino, Juna Rebekah Cadungog, Josie delos Reyes, Joy Conde Cruz, Mara Schinitka, MB’s graphic artists Robert M. Tabor II and Joseph “Oteph” Antipolo, and Julia Montes of Star Magic...