11. Cebu inmates gain online fame anew for honoring the King of Pop.
Garnering international popularity for their "Thriller" performance in 2007, it was only fitting that this troop of orange-clad jailbirds paid tribute to the King of Pop. Their interpretation of a medley of Michael Jackson's signature hits was well-received by the online community, with infamous gossip blogger Perez Hilton posting about it on his site.
12. Francis Magalona receives the Presidential Medal of Merit.
Days after his death, the Master Rapper was posthumously awarded the prestigious medal for promoting nationalism through music. Magalona, who brought rap into the mainstream spotlight in the early '90s, was celebrated by family, friends, and a legion of fans as his ashes were laid to rest. His contribution to local music and his impact on Filipino artists solidified his position in Philippine music history as the King of Rap.
13. Alexis Tioseco shakes up the indie scene.
His tragic murder in September left many Filipino cinephiles and auteurs in a state of shock. The 28-year-old film critic championed independent flicks with great stories over glossy Hollywood blockbusters and their megastars. His yearbook entry, which Patricia Evangelista quoted in her column, said: "Alexis Tioseco wishes to leave the world a better place than it was before he came." Somehow, with a sigh of grief, we know he did.
14. Corazon Aquino's life unifies the nation.
At the time of her death, the roads were once again flooded by bright streaks of yellow. For a moment, all political conflicts were put aside as this symbol of peace and hope was brought to her final resting place. The former President touched the lives of many people while she was alive but her death made an even bigger mark, sending thousands of mourners to the streets.
15. Antonio "Tony" Oposa Jr. gives kids hope for a good environment.
This environmental lawyer and activist received the Environmental Law Award from the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) in Washington for establishing the principle of inter-generational responsibility in the Philippine Court of Law. In layman's terms, this modern-day Captain Planet made it possible for people to sue governments who don't make it a point to give future generations a chance to enjoy a clean and green environment.
