The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
I am very happy and proud about my Facebook friend Bong Cabrera, the “small” actor who took a giant leap when he starred in internationally acclaimed director Lav Diaz’s “Magellan” which saw the light of day at the Cannes Premiere of the 78th Cannes International Film Festival in Cannes, France.
I might have seen and met Bong personally in the company of theater friends but even if I haven’t talked to him yet he gives me an impression that even if he isn’t tall, I could imagine his big brain teeming with ideas and talents, his heart brimming with love and care for his fellowmen.
Even his political views—judging from his social media posts—are overflowing with unconventional and liberating thoughts on how to improve our society.
Cabrera’s sense of fashion, especially the ones he wore at the Cannes fest, is also replete with meanings Artist Harvey Cenit has this to say on Bong in his socmed spaces: “…Sleek and dapper in a black and white suit styled by fellow UPian Rione Palacios, Cabrera graced the red carpet wearing my The Black Orchid, a striking ensemble that channels both mystery and quiet power. A proud schoolmate and fellow alumnus of the University of the Philippines Cebu, Cabrera continues to make waves on the global stage. Mabuhay ka (Long live), Isko!”
Modesty aside, many guests at Cannes were impressed by his wardrobe which took a whole lot of major productions before they were tailor made for him. According to the actor, people in the festival were saying “I love what you are wearing,” “I love your tux,” “You look good” etc.
“Super thankful for these passionate Cebuano fashionistas who helped me during crunch time and provided me with something to wear, and made me look TAO (HUMAN BEING). Thank you so much Harvey and Rione for helping me. They have to take my measurement, and send it to Harvey who is based in DUBAI and had it made for 2 to 3 days, and fly it to Manila, and adjusted to fit by Love Soriano. I don’t know how to thank you guys, Harvey, Rione, and Love.”
In spite of his sartorial challenges and triumphs, Bong was a genius in his plastic art. No wonder Lav never took him for granted.
The audience’s response to their film was tremendous. According to Bong, there was a five-minute standing ovation for the film after its screening. “…Kung di lang na (Had it not been) cut short because they told people to vacate the theater na (already), it will go on forever. What a great experience. Direk (Director) Lav is a rockstar in Cannes always bringing pride to the Philippines, it should be the same in Pinas!” Bong hoped.
Bong starred in the film with no less than the Mexican and Hollywood superstar Gael Garcia Bernal of the celebrated arti and commercial pieces “y tu mama Tambien,” “Babel,” “Amores Perros,” “The Motorcycle Diaries,” “Holland,” among others.
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Asia’s Sentimental Songstress Imelda Papin doesn’t deny her intentions to run for the Senate in the 2028 national elections.
However, would she still pursue it in the middle of a negative feedback on entertainers losing in the midterm elections.
“By track record will speak for myself. I have been vice-governor of Camarines Sur for nine years and my experience in public service will really be an asset,” said Imelda, one of the Directors of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).