E.A.T. and Eat Bulaga: A Tale of Two Noontime Shows

Noontime shows are a staple of Philippine television. They provide entertainment, laughter, and inspiration to millions of Filipinos who tune in daily. But what happens when two noontime shows have the same name, but different hosts, networks, and formats?

That’s the case with E.A.T. and Eat Bulaga, two rival programs that are currently vying for the top spot in the noontime slot. E.A.T. is the new show hosted by Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon, also known as TVJ, who were the original hosts of Eat Bulaga since 1979. Eat Bulaga, on the other hand, is the revamped version of the longest-running noontime show in the country, with a new set of hosts led by Paolo Contis, Buboy Villar, Betong Sumaya, Alexa Miro, and twins Cassy and Mavy Legaspi. Former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno and social media influencer Kimpoy Feliciano also joined the show later on.

How did this happen? Well, it all started when TVJ decided to part ways with TAPE Inc., the producer of Eat Bulaga, due to some internal issues and management changes. TVJ then brought with them some of their co-hosts, or Dabarkads, to their new show on TV5, which they named E.A.T., an acronym for Entertainment at Tanghali (Entertainment at Noon). TAPE Inc., meanwhile, retained the rights to the Eat Bulaga trademark and continued to air the show on GMA Network, with a fresh lineup of hosts and segments.

The two shows debuted on July 1, 2023, and since then, they have been competing for ratings, viewership, and popularity. According to AGB Nielsen ratings for July 19, 2023, Eat Bulaga surpassed E.A.T. in the Nationwide Urban Television Audience Measurement (NUTAM), with 4.12 percent versus 3.79 percent. It’s Showtime, another noontime show on A2Z and GTV, trailed behind with 2.76 percent.

But ratings are not everything. Both shows have their own loyal fan bases that support them on social media and online platforms. E.A.T. boasts of its nostalgic appeal and comedic flair, featuring segments such as Password Please! (a phone-in game for home viewers), Sugod Bahay, Mga Kapatid! (a public service segment with a street lottery game), Gimme 5: Laro ng Mga Henyo (a word-guessing game using headsets), and Vortas 5 (a dance contest for muscular men). Eat Bulaga, on the other hand, showcases its innovative and interactive features, such as Ikaw ang Pinaka (a ranking show based on surveys), G sa GEDLI (a roving van game with cash prizes), Word of the Ring (a word puzzle game with celebrities), Hey Mr. Rider (a motorcycle-themed game with riders), and QR QR (a QR code scanning game for home viewers).

Both shows also have their share of controversies and challenges. E.A.T. is currently facing a legal dispute with TAPE Inc. over the ownership of the Eat Bulaga trademark. TAPE Inc. is renewing the registration of Eat Bulaga with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), but TVJ has earlier applied to register it as well. Eat Bulaga, meanwhile, is struggling to cope with the loss of its former hosts and segments, as well as the changing preferences of its audience.

So which show is better? Well, that depends on your taste and preference. Some people may prefer the classic humor and chemistry of TVJ and their Dabarkads on E.A.T., while others may enjoy the fresh and dynamic vibe of Paolo, Buboy, Betong, Alexa, Cassy, Mavy, Isko, Kimpoy, and their co-hosts on Eat Bulaga. Some people may watch both shows alternately or simultaneously, depending on their mood or schedule.

Whatever your choice is, one thing is certain: noontime shows are here to stay. They are part of our culture and our daily lives. They make us laugh, cry, sing, dance, learn, and dream. They give us hope and happiness in these trying times.

So whether you’re an E.A.T.er or an Eat Bulaga fan, or both, let’s celebrate the diversity and richness of our noontime entertainment. After all, we all deserve some tulong at saya (help and joy) in our lives.

The Future of Renewable Energy in the Philippines

The Philippines is a country with a wealth of renewable energy resources. In fact, the country has the potential to generate up to 246,000 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy, which is more than enough to meet the country's current and future electricity needs.

Currently, the Philippines' power generation mix is dominated by fossil fuels, such as coal and oil. However, the government has set ambitious goals to increase the share of renewable energy in the power generation mix to 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040.

There are a number of reasons why the Philippines is so committed to renewable energy. First, renewable energy is a clean and sustainable source of energy. It does not produce greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change. Second, renewable energy is a relatively abundant resource in the Philippines. The country has a large number of geothermal, hydroelectric, solar, and wind power resources. Third, renewable energy is becoming increasingly affordable. The cost of solar and wind power has fallen significantly in recent years, making them more competitive with fossil fuels.

The Philippines is already making progress in its transition to renewable energy. In 2022, renewable energy accounted for 26.4% of the country's electricity generation. The government has also issued a number of policies to promote renewable energy, such as the feed-in tariff (FiT) program, which guarantees a minimum price for renewable energy generated by private companies.

There are a number of challenges that the Philippines faces in its transition to renewable energy. One challenge is the lack of infrastructure. The Philippines needs to invest in new transmission and distribution lines to connect renewable energy projects to the grid. Another challenge is the need for more research and development. The Philippines needs to develop new technologies to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of renewable energy.

Despite these challenges, the Philippines is well-positioned to become a leader in renewable energy. The country has the resources, the policies, and the public support to make the transition to a clean and sustainable energy future.

Here are some of the leading renewable energy sources in the Philippines:

Geothermal energy: The Philippines is the world's third-largest producer of geothermal energy. Geothermal energy is generated from the heat of the Earth's interior. It is a clean and reliable source of energy that can be used to generate electricity, heat homes and businesses, and even produce hot water.

Hydropower: Hydropower is the second-largest source of renewable energy in the Philippines. Hydropower is generated from the power of moving water. It is a clean and reliable source of energy that can be used to generate electricity, irrigate crops, and control flooding.

Solar energy: Solar energy is the fastest-growing source of renewable energy in the Philippines. Solar energy is generated from the sun's rays. It is a clean and abundant source of energy that can be used to generate electricity, heat water, and power appliances.

Wind energy: Wind energy is a growing source of renewable energy in the Philippines. Wind energy is generated from the wind's power. It is a clean and abundant source of energy that can be used to generate electricity, pump water, and power windmills.

The Philippines has a bright future for renewable energy. The country has the resources, the policies, and the public support to make the transition to a clean and sustainable energy future. As renewable energy technologies continue to improve and become more affordable, the Philippines is well-positioned to become a leader in the global renewable energy market.

The Bataan Nuclear Power Plant: A White Elephant or a Sleeping Giant?

Nuclear Power in the Philippines: A Missed Opportunity?

The Philippines is a country that faces many challenges in meeting its growing energy demand. With a population of about 110 million and a projected peak electricity demand of more than triple by 2040, the country needs to find reliable, affordable and clean sources of energy to power its development and reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels. One possible option that has been considered for decades is nuclear power, but it has never been realized due to various political, economic and social factors.

The Bataan Nuclear Power Plant: A Controversial Project

The Philippines' only attempt at building a nuclear power plant was the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP), a 621 MWe Westinghouse unit located on the Bataan Peninsula, about 100 kilometers west of Manila. The project was initiated by former President Ferdinand Marcos in 1973, in response to the oil crisis that affected the Philippine economy. The construction began in 1976 and was completed in 1984, at a cost of $1.9 billion.

However, the BNPP never went into operation, due to several issues that plagued the project. These included allegations of corruption, overpricing, bribery and mismanagement; safety concerns related to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and design defects; and public opposition fueled by the 1986 Chernobyl disaster and the 1986 People Power Revolution that ousted Marcos and declared Corazon Aquino as president. Aquino decided to mothball the plant, citing safety and financial reasons.

Since then, the BNPP has remained idle, costing the government millions of dollars in maintenance and debt payments. Several proposals have been made to revive the plant or convert it to other uses, such as a gas-fired or coal-fired plant, a tourist attraction or a research facility. However, none of these have materialized, due to technical, legal and environmental challenges.

The Prospects of Nuclear Power in the Philippines: A Renewed Interest?

Despite the failure of the BNPP, some sectors in the Philippines have continued to advocate for nuclear power as a viable option for the country's energy mix. They argue that nuclear power can provide stable, low-carbon and cost-effective electricity that can support the country's industrialization and development goals. They also point out that advances in nuclear technology have made it safer and more efficient than before.

In recent years, the Philippine government has shown some signs of interest in pursuing nuclear power. In 2016, President Rodrigo Duterte signed an executive order creating the Nuclear Energy Program Implementing Organization (NEPIO) to study the feasibility of introducing nuclear power in the country. In 2017, the Department of Energy (DOE) launched the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) 2017-2040, which included nuclear power as one of the potential options for future energy supply. In 2018, the DOE signed an agreement with Russia's Rosatom to cooperate on nuclear energy development. In 2020, the DOE invited a team of experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to conduct an Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) mission to assess the country's readiness for nuclear power.

The INIR mission concluded in December 2020 with a positive evaluation of the Philippines' progress in developing its nuclear infrastructure. The mission also provided recommendations on how to address the remaining gaps and challenges, such as strengthening the legal and regulatory framework, enhancing public awareness and acceptance, ensuring human resource development and securing financing and partnerships.

One of the options that the Philippines is considering is to revive the BNPP or build a new plant on its site. Another option is to deploy small modular reactors (SMRs), which are smaller, simpler and more flexible than conventional reactors. SMRs can be used for remote areas, island grids or industrial applications. The DOE has expressed interest in SMRs from Russia, China and South Korea.

The Challenges of Nuclear Power in the Philippines: A Risky Endeavor?

However, pursuing nuclear power in the Philippines is not without risks and challenges. Some of these include:

• High upfront costs: Building a nuclear power plant requires a large initial investment that can strain the country's fiscal resources and increase its debt burden. The BNPP alone cost $1.9 billion to build but never generated any revenue. The estimated cost of reviving it ranges from $1 billion to $4 billion, depending on the extent of refurbishment needed. The cost of building a new plant or deploying SMRs is also uncertain and may vary depending on various factors.
• Long lead times: Developing a nuclear power plant takes a long time from planning to operation. It involves complex processes such as site selection, environmental impact assessment, licensing, construction, commissioning and testing. The BNPP took eight years to complete but never operated. The estimated time to revive it is between five to seven years, while the time to build a new plant or deploy SMRs is between three to ten years, depending on the technology and the regulatory framework.
• Safety and security concerns: Operating a nuclear power plant poses potential risks of accidents, sabotage, terrorism or natural disasters that can result in radioactive releases, environmental contamination and health impacts. The Philippines is located in a seismically active region that is prone to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis. The BNPP is situated near major faults and close to the Pinatubo volcano, which erupted in 1991. The country also faces threats from armed groups and extremist organizations that may target nuclear facilities or materials. The country needs to ensure that it has adequate safety and security measures, emergency preparedness and response plans, and safeguards and non-proliferation commitments to prevent or mitigate such risks.
• Public opposition: Implementing a nuclear power program requires public acceptance and support, which can be influenced by various factors such as awareness, perception, trust, participation and communication. The Philippines has a history of strong anti-nuclear sentiment, especially after the Chernobyl and Fukushima accidents. Many people are concerned about the safety, health and environmental impacts of nuclear power, as well as the issues of corruption, transparency and accountability that surrounded the BNPP project. The country needs to engage with various stakeholders, such as civil society, media, academia, local communities and indigenous peoples, to address their concerns and involve them in the decision-making process.

Conclusion: A Matter of Choice?

As a Filipino, I care deeply about the future of our country and our people. I want us to have a prosperous, peaceful, and sustainable society that can provide for our needs and aspirations. I also want us to be responsible and respectful of our environment and our neighbors.

That is why I think the issue of nuclear power in the Philippines is a very important and complex one that deserves our attention and participation. Nuclear power offers potential benefits but also entails significant challenges and risks. Ultimately, it is a matter of choice for us to decide whether we want to pursue nuclear power or not.

If we do, we need to ensure that we have a clear vision, a strong commitment, a robust framework and a comprehensive strategy to develop and implement a safe, secure and sustainable nuclear power program that meets our energy needs and development goals.

If we don’t, we need to explore other options to diversify our energy mix and enhance our energy security, such as renewable energy sources, energy efficiency measures, regional cooperation and innovation.

Whatever we choose, we need to be informed, involved and empowered. We need to learn more about the pros and cons of nuclear power and other energy sources. We need to voice our opinions and concerns and listen to those of others. We need to engage with various stakeholders, such as the government, the private sector, the civil society, the media, the academia, the local communities and the indigenous peoples. We need to work together to find the best solutions for our common challenges.

Nuclear power in the Philippines is not just a technical or economic issue. It is also a social, political and environmental issue. It is an issue that affects us all. It is an issue that we should all care about.

Source:

(1) Nuclear Power in the Philippines - World Nuclear Association. https://www.world-nuclear.org/information-library/country-profiles/countries-o-s/philippines.aspx.
(2) Nuclear power in the Philippines - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_power_in_the_Philippines.
(3) Bataan Nuclear Power Plant - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bataan_Nuclear_Power_Plant.
(4) Philippines ready to go nuclear? All you need to know about Bataan .... https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/philippines/philippines-ready-to-go-nuclear-all-you-need-to-know-about-bataan-nuclear-power-plant-1.1656344794086.

TVJ and Legit Dabarkads Return with E.A.T. on TV5

Fans of Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon (TVJ) and their original co-hosts from "Eat Bulaga" have something to celebrate as they launch their new noontime show on TV5, titled "E.A.T.". The show, which premiered on July 1, 2023, marks the comeback of the iconic trio and their "legit Dabarkads" to the national television after their controversial departure from T.A.P.E., the producer of "Eat Bulaga", which is still airing on GMA-7.

The first episode of "E.A.T." was filled with emotions as TVJ and their fellow hosts such as Jose Manalo, Maine Mendoza, Allan K, Paolo Ballesteros, Ryan Agoncillo, Wally Bayola, Ryzza Mae Dizon and Carren Eistrup walked down the hallway of TV5 studio where their photos were displayed. Vic and Joey shed tears as they hugged each other before entering the studio. They also sang some of their hit songs from VST & Company, the singing group of Tito and Vic in the 1970s where Joey wrote some of the lyrics.

The show also teased the viewers with its title by singing the familiar tune of "Eat Bulaga" theme song but replacing it with "E.A.T.". The title stands for "Eto Ang Title", which means "This is the Title" in Filipino. The show also acknowledged that their studio was small but what mattered was that they were together.

"E.A.T." promises to deliver a unique and fun-filled noontime show that will entertain and inspire the viewers. The show will feature segments that showcase the talents and skills of ordinary Filipinos, as well as games and prizes that will make them happy. The show will also highlight the camaraderie and humor of TVJ and their co-hosts who have been together for decades.

If you are looking for a refreshing and exciting noontime show that will make you laugh and feel good, don't miss "E.A.T." on TV5 every Monday to Friday at 12 noon except Saturday start at 11:30 am.