Miss Asia-Pacific Int’l back after 10 years

Dormant for 10 years, the Miss Asia Pacific International (MAPI) is making a much-awaited comeback. The pageant happens to be one of the country’s most prestigious, with Ma. Inez Zaragoza as the first Filipina winner in 1982. Other winners from the Philippines include Bong Dimayacyac, Lorna Legaspi and Michelle Aldana who ventured into showbiz. It is hailed as the oldest “international pageant in Asia.” 

The top management of MAPI  reached a decision that the relaunch must be held in the Philippines because the pageant started here in 1968.

The relaunch is calculated to restore the past glory it enjoyed. Like in previous years, the pageant focuses on  promoting the Philippines as a premier tourism destination and further complement the government’s program to enhance tourism and its relation with the participating countries.   

The revived pageant will take place at the world-class and premier resort facility in Southwest Philippines — Sheridan Beach Resort and Spa in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan — this November. “It is the perfect place to showcase the beauty of the Philippines,” according to the pageant organizers. “The participants will be welcomed with the hospitality of Palaweños. That part of the country not only has breathtaking views and scenic spots, it offers a variety of food for every tastebud.”

Here are the first batch of official MAPI candidates:

1. Peru, Ana Lucia Leiva Pereyro, 23

2. Russia, Tatiana Tsimfer, 25

3. Ukraine, Maria Furdychka, 24

4. Australia, Madeleine Stock, 19

5. New Zealand, Amalina Bunyasakdi, 23

6. Nepal, Anshu KC, 24

7. Thailand, Chowanya Thanoyywong, 21

8. Lebanon, Mony Zreik, 21

9. China, Zhao Le

10. Philippines, Ganiel Akrina Krishnan, 21

To date, following the Philippines as the country with the most number of winners were India, Costa Rica, South Korea, Thailand and Australia, with three wins each. To date, the Philippines has the most number of winners. 

Rep. Strike pushes for tax exempts, subsidies for local music industry

Rep. Strike Revilla (photo, 2nd District of Cavite) recently filed House Bill No. 1670, also known as the “Local Music Industry Incentives Act of 2016,” as support for Filipino artists to become more competitive locally and internationally.

 “The local music industry embodies the soul of the country. But foreign music has constantly hindered the dominance of Filipino artists in the industry. Thus, the need for the formation and promotion of original Pilipino music is highly encouraged,” Revilla said.

He’s also pushing for tax exemption on the holding of pop, rock or concerts featuring mainly Filipino compositions as well as Filipino artists.   

“Pursuant to public service through legislation, I believe it is high time that we passed this bill in order to preserve and improve the condition of our local music industry as well as alleviate the plight of our Filipino artists,” Revilla urged his colleagues.

Also, he wants Section 140 of Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as “The Local Government Code of 1991,” amended to provide greater amusement tax exemptions and related subsidies to the Filipino artists.

What’s up?

• Last chance to catch toon fest at Sta. Lucia Mall. You have until Oct. 31 to catch Sta. Lucia Department Store and Planet Toys’ annual Toon Fest which features character brands — from apparel, shoes, toys, accessories and novelty items. It features a lobby exhibit that highlights the latest collections of character items for kids and adults. Participating character brands offer a price drop of as much as 50 percent. Sta. Lucia Mall is located along Marcos Highway, Cainta, Rizal. (For details, call 645-1098 local 109.)

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