Award-winning young actress Elia Ilano will headline the upcoming short film “Teresa”, an official grantee of the International Children’s Peace Prize Fund. This global initiative is made possible through the efforts of State of Youth and KidsRights, a non-profit organization based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, with generous support from WereldWijd voor Kinderen (WWvK).
Produced by State of Youth Manila, the film explores the theme of gender equality—a cornerstone in building a just, inclusive, and peaceful society. “Teresa” tells the inspiring story of a young girl from an underprivileged community who dreams of becoming an engineer. Gifted in science and driven by a thirst for learning, Teresa defies poverty and the societal expectations placed on girls. Instead of being discouraged, she draws strength from resilience and courage, determined to carve her own path.
Leading the cast is Elia Ilano, FAMAS Best Child Actress, Star Awards Best Child Performer, and Asia Pacific Topnotch Teen Actress of the Year 2025. Joining her are veteran actor Bodjie Pascua, singer-songwriter-actress-host Ataska, newcomer Symon de Lena, theater and TV actress Malou Canzana, and character actor Richard Ubalde.
The film is written and directed by Paulo Xavier, with Sherryl Ilano as Assistant Director and Dave Ramirez as Director of Photography. It is produced by State of Youth, KidsRights, WWvK, and Elia Ilano.
“Teresa” is set to premiere in September 2025 through private screenings in schools and in various public and private institutions nationwide, aiming to spark conversations on gender equality and youth empowerment.
From a Facebook post by my former boss, Margie Penson-Juico (former Chairperson of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office), I learned that her grandson Rafael Villanueva recently joined the San Francisco Marathon 2025:
“From Dinggay and Bryan’s athletic family is my first ‘apo’ who joined the San Francisco marathon and finished it. This man is my pride for all he has achieved in his young life: he is a third of my age yet his achievements pale in comparison to mine! Thank you, Lord, for giving his cousins an awesome trailblazer.”
I was also delighted to learn that my niece, Aiko Kumano, joined the half marathon in San Francisco and completed it successfully. She will soon head to Australia for another marathon, with plans to join the Tokyo Marathon in March 2026 and the Boston Marathon in April 2026.
U.S. President Donald J. Trump has established the Task Force on the LA28 Summer Olympics, thanking Gene Sykes, Chair of the Committee, for banning men from competing in women’s sports.
“The U.S. will not let men steal trophies from women at the 2028 Olympics — and we appreciate the fairness,” President Trump said.
In a significant step toward strengthening partnerships and fostering collaboration, officials from Mabalacat City College recently paid a courtesy visit to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office 3.
Led by MCC President Dr. Sonny de Guzman, the delegation included Vice President for Administration Dr. Myrna Calma, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Marilyn Arcilla, Vice President for External Affairs Ms. Jennyfer Merza, and Vice President for Research Mr. Glen Nolasco. They were warmly welcomed by CHEDRO 3 Director IV Dr. Lora L. Yusi and Education Supervisors Dr. Mary Ann Geanette Dungca-Medina and Dr. Lyra Anne Lopez-Padrid.
The visit focused on building a stronger working relationship, identifying areas for cooperation, and exploring opportunities for academic growth and development. Both parties expressed optimism about future collaborations that would benefit students and the wider community.
The visit underscores Mabalacat City College’s commitment to excellence and to providing quality education through collaboration and partnerships. CHED Regional Office 3 looks forward to working closely with MCC to achieve these shared goals.
Noted Kapampangan writer, essayist, reporter, editor, columnist, and professor Danton Remoto has accepted five creative-writing students (I am fortunate to be among them) for one-on-one online mentorship. His sessions will cover poetry, short stories, creative nonfiction, and the novel, in either English or Filipino. Several of his former students have published books locally and abroad, while others have received literary awards.
Remoto previously taught English and Journalism at Ateneo de Manila University and is chairman emeritus of Ang Ladlad, the LGBT political party in the Philippines.
