Producer denies she quit SEAG rites

A grand festivity featuring thousands of participants and showcasing the evolution of the rich cultures of the Southeast Asian nations highlight the opening ceremonies of the 23rd SEA Games on Nov. 27 at the Rizal Park.

Philippine SEAG Organizing Committee chief executive officer Jose "Peping" Cojuangco Jr. revealed this yesterday as he denied reports (not in The STAR) that they still have no program to speak of less than three months before the opening of the Games.

Contrary to the report, Cojuangco said preparations for the opening ceremony are now in full swing even as renowned TV production personality Maria Montelibano denied reports she withdrew as producer of the event.

"I strongly deny the news report. I cannot do that as the preparations are now in full swing," said Montelibano in a statement.

"He has not talked to me or any of the production people. It’s just unfortunate that irresponsible reporting such as this could ruin my perspective of the job at hand," Montelibano added.

Cojuangco said he was already briefed by Montelibano on the details of the productions of the opening and closing ceremonies with a proposed combined budget of P50 million. The productions will be done in a giant stage fronting the Rizal Grandstand.

"I can assure you it’s beautiful kaya lang ayaw ipa-reveal ni Maria Montelibano yung details at mawawala ang surpresa," said Cojuangco.

Cojuangco, however, bared it will be a presentation of the cultures of the region with a theme "One Heritage, One Southeast Asia."

A part of the program is a festival of songs by the San Miguel Corp. Chorale under musical genius Ryan Cayabyab.

Cojuangco said the opening ceremonies would be a two-and-a-half-hour extravaganza to be followed by a dance party open to the crowd.

"There would be bands and entertainers and they want people to be part of the party," said Cojuangco.

Aside from the opening ceremony in Rizal Park, there will be separate welcome parties for guests and participants in Cebu and Bacolod.