Romance, heroism, and tragedy

This week’s tragedy is completely unpalatable, so let’s begin with this week’s romance. But first, a disclaimer: I don’t really follow Pinoy Big Brother, as I’d been working on Europe time the last few years. Now that I’m back on the day shift, though, I’ve been reintroduced to the fiesta that is Pinoy prime-time television, beginning with what the helpers who rule the TV at the condominium I go home to while I look for my own place watch. And yes, they’re completely hooked on Pinoy Big Brother, going as far as giving me updates as they watch and I eat my late dinner.

Two nights ago, they brought me up to date on Big Brother’s latest twist: the girls were asked to change houses, much to the disappointment of many boys—one bad boy type, in particular. Apparently, Jason from Mindoro had developed a very close friendship with Melisa from General Santos. Big Brother even gave them an oftentimes demanding “baby,” a doll really, which they called Dengue. Fans of the coupling call it “MelaSon,” and I think it’s so apt, considering the unexpected, but really strong chemistry between the two quirky characters. I don’t think I’ve ever seen the type of chemistry on the boob tube before. Not even on reality dating shows.

In perhaps the most

touching reality TV show moment I’ve ever seen, the two separated housemates sadly admitted to missing each other, with Jason, who, save for his bad boy reputation, is every inch a mestizo looker, confessing to missing Melisa every waking hour. Melisa, if you don’t already know, isn’t really your conventional beauty. She’s not bad-looking, but she’s more of the comedian among the housemates, and her scenes are often treated as comic relief, complete with corny sound effects, oftentimes at her expense. Yes, Melisa brings this upon herself, but I think it also has a lot to do with her being kinky-haired, dark-skinned, and gap-toothed.

The reality TV friendship-which-could-be-more is a refreshing twist. Jason doesn’t seem to be the pretentious type and neither does Melisa. If I didn’t know you’d have to go through a long audition process just to get in Bahay ni Kuya, I’d say both aren’t really in it for the fame. But of course I know better than that.

Nevertheless, I’m thrilled at how people are reacting to this PBB love team. I’ve been googling updates to learn more about MelaSon, and I’ve yet to come across disparaging comments, especially for Melisa. In fact, I’m happy to discover, there are many MelaSon shippers out there. I can’t wait to see them get together again!

I’m wondering how this potential romance would pan out. Thank God there’s a Facebook fan page to help me catch up.

CNN Hero of the Year

Speaking of Facebook, I believe it was instrumental in the campaign to get votes for the 28-year-old Efren Peñaflorida, who won as CNN Hero of the Year for his work in educating street kids and young gang members to give them a better chance at a good and productive future. With zero resources and overflowing determination, Efren put up a small organization that holds pushcart classes in the slums. Definitely a Filipino to be proud of, definitely a hero to emulate.

Here is his short, but meaningful acceptance speech:

“Our planet is filled with heroes, young and old, rich and poor, man, woman of different colors, shapes and sizes. We are one great tapestry. Each person has a hidden hero within. You just have to look inside you and search... your heart, and be the hero to the next one in need. So to each and every person inside in this theater and for those who are watching at home, the hero in you is waiting to be unleashed. Serve, serve well, serve others above yourself and be happy to serve. As I always tell to my co-volunteers … you are the change that you dream as I am the change that I dream and collectively we are the change that this world needs to be.”

Public officials should take their cue from him.

Maguindanao

And speaking of public official, I apologize for mentioning this in an entertainment column, because nothing at all about it is entertaining. However, my heart goes out to the innocent victims, which, as of last count, could go over 50 in number. If you are reading this, please say a prayer for their souls and another prayer for justice to be swift. I am also upset for the many journalists—over twenty were identified, as of last count—that were killed in the line of duty.

I know I don’t know enough about politics in Maguindanao. In fact, I’d never heard of the two warring clans before. But you do not have to be well-informed about politics to condemn the gruesome crime that was committed in the name of power. You do not have to know who did what to whom first and why to know what happened was beyond wrong.

If you are human, you would know. And if you are part of the country’s leadership and you still consider yourself human, you would know what to do.

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