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Portrait of Butch Francisco

Butch Francisco

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From Jamón to Yema Rolls

From Jamón to Yema Rolls

A nostalgic look at how Christmas gift-giving in the Philippines evolved—from jamon de funda and fruitcake to practical food gifts—reflecting changing times,…

From Jamón to Yema Rolls

From Jamón to Yema Rolls

Since Kris has not been in the best of health in recent years, I don’t expect anything this season. All I want is for her to be well again. Never mind the…

Behind the smoke

Behind the smoke

For two decades, the public perception of Gretchen Barretto was colored.

P500 Noche Buena: Notes on a scandal

P500 Noche Buena: Notes on a scandal

A sharp, humorous look at Filipinos’ deep connection to food — from the P500 Noche Buena uproar to decades of behind-the-scenes showbiz stories — revealing how…

The Philippines’ pageant ride

The Philippines’ pageant ride

From historic wins to modern production efforts, the Philippines’ deep bond with Miss International showcases Pinoy excellence in beauty pageants, creativity,…

Dondon Nakar: A colorful life

Dondon Nakar: A colorful life

Having so many talents can sometimes be a bane, however. In the case of Dondon, he was unable to find his niche because he was good at everything. In his adult…

Dondon Nakar then and now

Sin, spirituality and Dondon Nakar

The late Chat Silayan brought me to the Elim Catholic Charismatic group that was founded by Bro. Willy Nakar, the father of former teen idol Dondon Nakar.