Calvento Files | A Retrospective on ABS-CBN's True Crime Filipino Show

Calvento Files, was an investigative program and documentary drama (docudrama) hosted by veteran broadcast journalist Tony Calvento that aired from December 4, 1995 to October 2, 1998 on ABS-CBN. Calvento Files was a docudrama that chronicles and archives some of the most disturbing and heartbreaking true crimes recorded by the police and various witnesses in the Philippines during that time. Let's go down memory lane with the iconic Filipino true crime docudrama "Calvento Files" here on Retro Pilipinas.


Calvento Files - The Show
About Calvento Files

ABS-CBN, in its pursuit of quality entertainment and public service, has come up with yet another experimental format: TONY CALVENTO FILES.

The program is envisioned as a two-hour docu-drama combining the standards of the number one drama anthology, Maalaala Mo Kaya and the number one public affairs program, Magandang Gabi Bayan.

Tony Calvento Files will definitely arouse the catharsis and awareness of the Filipino audience; also a way of public service - by helping convict criminals and making the viewing public more cautious in their dealings with other people especially with their loved ones. Above all, it hopes to convey a message and lesson for the viewers so they will not fall prey to the dangers posed to them in their everyday living.

Source: ABS-CBN via Wayback Machine

A Retrospective on Calvento Files
A Look Back on Calvento Files

What can be said about the Tony Calvento Files docudrama back on its original run on ABS-CBN? Well, this is one of the most memorable Filipino television shows for me as a child of the 90s. I think I was around the age of 10-12 when it aired during 1995-1998 and although I've forgotten most of the episodes, there is one thing that I can be certain of and that is Calvento Files was a disturbing Philippine television show to watch. I guess my parents are partly to blame for that, letting me watch such a graphic investigative police and crime program about murder, rape and other true crimes that occurred in the country all the way to that year.



I don't know how ABS-CBN's Calvento Files docudrama holds up to today's standards, but I remembered being disturbed as a kid by how graphic the portrayal of these crimes was presented. I wish ABS-CBN can release a DVD, Blu-ray or maybe release the episodes of this classic docudrama on their streaming services for us to at least get the chance to re-experience them as adults. Where the performance really that great or was that simply just a mind of a kid like me seemingly introduced of what horrors some people are capable of towards their fellow humans. I am a big horror fan and someone who likes to watch true crimes related stuff from time to time, so if ever this gets re-released, this fits my preference perfectly well. This is what I love when doing retrospectives here on Retro Pilipinas, I can get to talk about something that has become a part of my life and everybody else's that seemingly everyone has a vague recollection about. When looking at anything about the show, I can't seem to find further details about it except for some wiki entries and that the original host, Tony Calvento, passed away due to Cancer in October 2017.


I wish I can find a breakdown of the cases covered per episode but alas, there is none! There is one episode though, the Calvento Files pilot episode on the Oroquieta massacre and those found in the film adaptation of the now-defunct ABS-CBN investigative program. Guess that is what is expected on anything that dates before the age of the Internet and there are only some who have archived such show for preservation. It's a good thing that we can get a glimpse of what Calvento files (a snippet of sort) was like as it got a big-screen adaptation with 1997's Calvento Files: The Movie where you can check out the trailer here:

Calvento Files: The Movie

Episode 1, Balintuwad, is the story of a fifteen-year-old epileptic girl who was gang-raped and drowned by her captors the night she sneaked out to watch her sister's prom. Eventually, the perpetrators are revealed to be schoolteachers, the very people who are supposed to safeguard children's welfare. Based on the true story of Valen Lanistosa of Dueñas, Iloilo. Episode 2, Inay, May Momo, tells the story of a young mother and her daughter who undergo a terrifying ordeal when the husband is hacked to death by the mother's spurned lover. The widow presses charges against the killer, but the killer hounds both the woman and her traumatized daughter in an attempt to scare them to drop the charges against him.

Soure: IMDB

I might as well, re-watch this film and do a crossover movie review between Retro Pilipinas and Pinoy Movie Blogger (a blog which I am also the author of), to just add to this retrospective. Watch out for that update soon.


What about you guys? What are your fondest, favorite, or disturbing memories, episodes, or cases covered in this phenomenal ABS-CBN 90s true-crime docudrama? Share your thoughts and opinion about Calvento Files in the comments section below:

B'T X and B'T X Neo | ABS-CBN's 90s Filipino-Dubbed Anime Retrospective

B'T X was a Filipino-dubbed Japanese animation that aired on ABS-CBN every weekend afternoon during the 90s in the Philippines. B't X, stylized as B'T X, was adapted from the shonen manga series, written and illustrated by Masami Kurumada which ran from October 1994 – January 2000. The 25-episode first season of the anime adaptation of B'T X ran from April 6, 1996 – September 21, 1996. It was followed by a 14-episode second season titled B'T X Neo that ran from August 21, 1997 – November 20, 1997 in Japan. Let's go down memory lane and remember the pilot of the badass B'T X in this alternate world of B'T X and it's sequel B'T X Neo.


B'T X - The Story
B'T X Series Plot

B'T X is set on an alternate Earth which is ruled by one faction called the Machine Empire. The Machine Empire pushed for a society of scientists which culminated in the creation of the B'Ts (pronounced "beat" in the Japanese version), mechanical beasts with artificial intelligence powered by human blood.

B'T X and B'T X Neo follows the story of Teppei Takamiya and the bond he formed with the titular B'T X, or simply X which was once of the strongest B'T of the Machine Empire. The story then delves deeper with the B'Ts and MAchine Empire. Secrets start to unfold as it becomes the a story of survival of the human race against the clutches of the Machine Empire and smack in between is Teppei and X, along with the comrades they gained along this journey.

B'T X Opening Theme
B'T X Series Intro





B'T X Lyrics

Maglalakbay ako patungo sa kawalan
Upang habulin ko pangarap sa buhay
At susuungin ko itong kadiliman
Makita ko lang ang liwanag
Ng katarungan

B’T X Closing Song
Alab ng Katarungan
ang pagmamahal sa ating kapwa
ang pag-ibig sa ating bayan
Handang ibuwis ang aking buhay
B'T X Legacy on the Filipinos

It is without a doubt that B'T X has become a part of the lives of Filipino kids who grew up watching this anime series every afternoon. Some have even made various tribute and covers remembering this aspect of their childhood. I now present you with the legacy of B'T X amongst the kids and Filipinos in general who grew up watching the series. Credits goes to the original authors. Kindly follow, like and support their channels which we'll also include below:

BTX opening theme (Tagalog/Japanese version)- Mavilon cover

Source: Mavilon's YouTube Channel B'T X Cover

BTX TAGALOG OPENING THEME Acoustic version 90's Anime | Sailing For My Dream Cover Rider Kikomi

Source: Rider Kikomi's YouTube Channel

A Retrospective on B'T X and B'T X Neo
A Look Back on B'T X and B'T X Neo


What can be said about B'T X's run in Philippine television back in the late 90s? Well, I don't really remember much about the plot of B'T X, only bits and pieces. I was only at around grade school back then when it first aired on ABS-CBN. It was Filipino-dubbed but I guess I wasn't paying much attention to the story, maybe more fascinated with what seemingly high octane action and the cool designs of the the B'Ts (Beats) back then. speaking of cool designs, I managed to archive a few snapshots from this nostalgic 90s series in my teks collection of B'T X. Maybe, I will make an unpacking and release scans of my teks collection (on a future post soon).




Being a 90s kid, my fondest memory of the series was me playing around with my grade school classmates shouting Teppei's iconic Messiah Fist and thinking that we were riding some of the iconics beats from the show. A fan favorite back then was Fou Lafine's B't J'Taime that had a phoenix (suzaku) design and opposite to him was Ron and B'T Raido with his dragon (seiryuu) design. I tend to favor the lead back then, even though I usually favor the main character, I remember favoring Hokuto and B'T Max (genbuu). I've managed to get a hold of the series now, but when re-watching the very first few episodes I can say that it really didn't age gracefully. Maybe it is my more mature taste when it comes to animation (but I do appreciate titles like Mob Psycho 100), but maybe a few episodes in more and I will warm up to the animation style. I will re-watch this series and hopefully will have a good time just like when I finished and re-watched Hell Teacher Nube.


How about you guys? How much do you remember about B'T X and B'T X Neo back in the days? What was your fondest memory, character, B'Ts, or moments from the series? Share your thoughts and experiences about B'T X in the comments section below and let's discuss more about it:

Bananas in Pajamas | An ABS-CBN's 90s Filipino-dubbed Kids Show Short Retrospective

Bananas in Pajamas was a Filipino-dubbed children's television show which aired every afternoon in ABS-CBN's anime afternoon block, around the block of Zenki, B'T X, and Blue Blink. Bananasa in Pajamas was originally Bananas in Pyjamas, an Australian children's television series that premiered on the Australian Broadcasting Company (ABC) on July 20, 1992 and have been syndicated and dubbed into many language including the Filipino language. Let's go down memory lane and remember the the Filipino-dubbed Australian kids show Bananas in Pajamas on its Philippine Television run here at Retro Pilipinas.


Bananas in Pajamas - The Show
About Bananas in Pyjamas

Bananas in Pajamas feature anthropomorphic characters, mainly two twin banana brothers named B1 and B2. It chronicles their daily lives along with their three teddy bear neighbors Amy, Lulu and Morgan, and Doding Daga (Rat in a Hat in the Australian version).

Bananas in Pajamas Opening Theme
Bananas in Pyjamas Series Intro



Bananas in Pyjamas Lyrics




Bananas in pyjamas
Are coming down the stairs
Bananas in pyjamas
Are coming down in pairs
Bananas in pyjamas
Are chasing teddy bears
'Cause on Tuesdays
They all try to
Catch them unawares

[second time sung faster]

Bananas in pyjamas
Are coming down the stairs
Bananas in pyjamas
Are coming down in pairs
Bananas in pyjamas
Are chasing teddy bears
'Cause on Tuesdays
They all try to
Catch them unawares
A Retrospective on Bananas in Pajamas
A Look Back on Bananas in Pajamas

What can be said about Bananas in Pajamas' run in Philippine television back in the late 90s? It was a good 15-minute short that served as an intermission to the main course for 90s kids ever weekday afternoon. They serve as a downtime or something cute after or before each anime shown every afternoon in ABS-CBN back then. I only remember that the show was smack right between Zenki or B't X and Akazukin Cha Cha or Blue Blink. The show featured cute anthropomorphic characters/mascots which were all voiced in Filipino making them more relatable to Filipino kids.


With the power of the Internet, we can now take a look back at them with this YouTube clip:







It was a kid-friendly slice of life show which when thinking about it now, was perfectly place as the anime that precede them usually are a bit on the violent (but in a good badass way for boys) side like B'T X and Zenki. As a 90s kid I remember many of us mimicking their popular lines. With iconic lines spoken by the titular Bananas in Pajamas, "Naiisip mo ba ang naiisip ko B1?" which is added by the other banana, "Sa Palagay ko nga B2", the show has cemented itself in the hearts and minds of the Filipino kids who are waiting for the next action packed anime on the ABS'CBN's afternoon block.


How about you guys? What are your fondest memories of Bananas in Pajamas? Share your thoughts and opinion about the Filipino-dubbed Bananas in Pajamas Philippine television run in the comments section below and let's have an awesome discussion.

ATBP: Awit, Titik at Bilang na Pambata — A Retrospective | ABS-CBN 90s Educational Children's Television Show

ATBP: Awit, Titik at Bilang na Pambata, directly translates to "And More: Song, Letter and Number for Kids", or simply ATBP was Filipino educational television show for children which aired in ABS-CBN during the 90s. ATBP, which was an abbreviation of "At Iba Pa" (literally translateds to "And More"), had a 30-minute television running time and originally aired from June 1994 to March 1998; it was created and produced by ABS-CBN with executive producer Gilbert Perez, written by Don Cuaresma and Richard Reynante, and directed by Laurenti Dyogi. Let's go down memory lane with this iconic Filipino-centric educational show for kids called ATBP: Awit, Titik at Bilang na Pambata. AB, CD, EF, G, HI, JK, L, M, N, Ñ, Ng...


ATBP: Awit, Titik at Bilang na Pambata - The Show
About - ATBP: Awit, Titik at Bilang na Pambata

ATBP: Awit, Titik at Bilang na Pambata or simply ATBP is an all Filipino educational show for children. If Sineskwela was to Science, Math-tinik was to Math, Bayani was to History or HeKaSi (old grade school curriculum Heograpiya, Kasaysayan, at Sibika), then ATBP was to Filipino. One can even say that ATBP was the Filipino Sesame Street, just like another educational Filipino kid's show, Batibot.

ATBP follows the Sesame Street and Batibot mechanics featuring a combination of human, muppets, and animations usually incorporating sing and dance numbers to convey the lesson of the day. One of the main character in this nostalgic ABS-CBN children's educational morning program is Piolo Pascual who played the role of Kuya Miguel. The other cast of ATBP includes Isay Alvarez as Remy, Raul Arellano as Berting, Dois Riego de Dios as Arman, Zeus Inocencio as Pol, Amiel Leonardia as Lino, Lorna Lopez as Ms. Carunungan, Jake Macapagal as Doctor Millares, Charmaine Nueros as Becky, Janice Pronstroller as Mrs. Millares, and Ama Quiambao as Tinay. ATBP is still being re-aired through educational cable television network, the Knowledge Channel.

ATBP: Awit, Titik at Bilang na Pambata Opening Theme
ATBP: Awit, Titik at Bilang na Pambata Series Intro


ATBP: Awit, Titik at Bilang na Pambata Closing Theme
ATBP: Awit, Titik at Bilang na Pambata Series Outro


So what can be said about ATBP: Awit, Titik at Bilang na Pambata? ATBP will be forever be ingrained for those 90s kid glued to their television. While many will always have Sesame Street and Batibot as their default educational kid's show, ATBP cannot be dimissed. What is the best memory that most of us had with ATBP? Well, one memorable thing about it is its "Alpabetong Filipino" which to me is still relevant and is a great complimentary piece to the English "Alphabet Song." Here is a little clip of that last song syndrome and nostalgic "Alpabetong Filipino" from At Iba Pa (ATBP):





Making this retrospective now, I canb't say that I am someone who have fully followed the show as I recall most of its characters unlike that of other ABS-CBN educational kids show—Sineskwela, Bayani, to name a few— or maybe my memory is fuzzy about it. I also don't recall Piolo Pascual being in it. Maybe I wasn't that big of an ABS-CBN viewer at that time. Maybe you guys have better memory than I do so feel free to share them at the comments section and let's all go down memory lane and relive our ATBP nostalgic past. There is also little information to work with in the ATBP wikipedia entry to jog the memory.


How about you guys? What are your fondest and favorite memories, episodes, characters, and topics covered in the phenomenal ABS-CBN 90s Filipino-themed edutainment kids show? Share your thoughts and opinion about Sineskwela in the comments section below:

Magic Knight Rayearth | ABS-CBN 90s Filipino-Dubbed Anime

Magic Knight Rayearth was a Filipino-dubbed Japanese animation which aired on ABS-CBN every Sunday morning during the 90's in the Philippines. Magic Knight Rayearth (魔法騎士レイアース Mahou Kishi Reiāsu) was originally a Japanese shojo (female target demographic) manga series created (written) by Clamp and published by Kodansha with three volumes that ran from November 1993 to February 1995. The manga was later adapted into an anime which originally aired in Yomiuri TV and on NNS in Tokyo and ran from October 17, 1994 to November 27, 1995 with a total of 49 episodes spanning two seasons. Let's go down memory lane and remember this all female highschoolers turned warriors turned mech pilots in the fantasy world of Magic Knight Rayearth.


Magic Knight Rayearth - The Story
Magic Knight Rayearth Series Plot

Three high school suddenly found themselves transported in another world called Cephiro. Tomboyish and headstrong Hikaru Shidou and is known in the Philippine-dubbed series as Lucy; quick-tempered and straightforward Umi Ryuuzaki and known as Marina; and intelligent prim-and-proper ladylike Fuu Hououji known locally as Anemone. The three girls are then tasked by Clef to rescue the current Pillar of Cephiro (Princess Emeraude) from her abductor, the high priest (and sho's main antagonist*?*) Zagato. Once fulfilled they will be returned to Tokyo.


The first season focused on the finding of the powers of the three protagonist, building of their friendship, and the inevitable bout in the end that locked Cephiro in its miserable state which was picked up in the second season in which colonizers have started invading Cephiro.

Magic Knight Rayearth Opening Theme
Magic Knight Rayearth Series Intro





Magic Knight Rayearth Opening Theme Filipino Lyrics
Magic Knight Rayearth Opening Theme Tagalog Lyrics

Kami'y narito
Asahan nyo'ng
Magtatanggol

Makikipaglaban
para sa
Kapayapaan....

Ang lahat ng nilalang dito
ay may karapatan

(sa magandang bukas)

Kung merong gumugulo
ay h'wag mag alala

Kami'y ang dakilang tagapagtanggol nyo
Sa lahat ng oras
Handa kaming tumulong

Ang aming mga kapangyarihan
Alay sa karapatan

Kami'y narito
Asahan nyo'ng
Magtatanggol

Makikipaglaban
para sa
Kapayapaan at kaayusan

Kami'y asahan nyo..
Hanggang sa dulo ng Mundo...
Magic Knight Rayearth Yuzurenai Negai by Naomi Tamura Official Music Video



Magic Knight Rayearth Yuzurenai Negai Live Performance by Naomi Tamura



Naomi performing Yuzurenai Negai at Otakon Expo 2009 in Baltimore, USA.




A Lookback on Magic Knight Rayearth


What is there to say about Magic Knight Rayearth? Well, Magic Knight Rayearth was one of those definitive and notable anime that I grew up with as it was perfectly placed on a Sunday morning (weekend) block. It had a high fantasy setting that featured transforming girls ala Sailormoon plus mecha action. Back in the days, there was no issues when kids are watching such series, well at least not in our neighborhood or household.


I remember the tragic love story of the Princess who need saving and her abductor, and the awesome look of the giant mechs and the fighting using these mecha. Oddly enough I always remember the Tatra and Tarta theme which play when they summon their giant djinns. Must be its Middle Eastern theme or Arab country like exotic beat or just the hypnotizing performance of these attractive anime sibling slash colonizers.

Did you know that the Magic Knight Rayearth mechs and characters appear in the eleventh installment of the Super Robot Wars, game franchise? Check it out at Super Robot Wars T Video Game Impressions Mech-centeric Game Franchise Super Robot Wars Returns to the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4.

I plan on re-watching this series again if they still hold up to today's standards (hopefully it will) just like what I did with Hell Teacher Nube.


How about you guys? What are your fondest memories of this all-female lead slash mecha fantasy love story anime? Do you have any particular favorites like episode(s), characters, and merchandise related to the show? Share your thoughts and experiences about Magic Knight Rayearth in the comments section below and let's discuss:

Sineskwela | An ABS-CBN 90s Educational Show for Children Retrospective

Sineskwela was Filipino educational television show for children that aired in ABS-CBN during the 90s. Sineskwela which was alternatively known as "School on Air", was produced by ABS-CBN Foundation with the Science Education Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of Education (DepEd). Let's go down memory lane with this iconic educational show for kids called Sineskwela. Tayo na sa Sineskwela...


Sineskwela - The Show
About Sineskwela

Sineskwela presented and explained otherwise complicated principles and concepts of science and technology through dramatization and visual effects. It also demonstrated the practical application of science in familiar life situations, thereby allowing the information to be easily understood and appreciated by its young viewers.

Sineskwela was a curriculum-based show and catered to public elementary students from Grade 2 to 6. The DepEd mandated that it be shown in the science class of each grade level at least once a week. Five episodes--one for each of the five grade levels--were shown every week. Each episode presented different problems and situations in which the characters had a chance to explore the world of science. The characters would gather information not just through library research but also through laboratory experiments, field investigations, on-the-scene reporting, and use of visual effects. An example would be the show's characters, Anatom and Agatom, shrinking to the size of molecules and entering biological organisms such as a flower or a dog. In these mini-adventures, they would encounter several personifications of bacteria, pollen, and other possible objects who explain the related scientific theories and phenomena.


The Sineskwela cast included Christine Bersola playing as the character Anatom, Brennan Espartinez as Agatom, Sheena Ramos as Palikpik, Maan Munsayac as Kulitsap, Roobak Valle as Ugatpuno, Frederico Gonzales as Bok, Giselle Sanchez as Ate Giselle, and Winnie Cordero as Ate Winnie.

Source: Sineskwela on WikiPilipinas

Sineskwela Opening Theme
Sineskwela Series Intro



Sineskwela Theme Song
Composed by: Ryan Cayabyab

Bawat bata may tanong,
Ba't ganito, bat gano'n?
Hayaang buksan ang isipan
Sa science o agham...

Tayo na sa Sineskwela
Tuklasin natin ang siyensya
Buksan ang pag-iisip
Tayo'y likas na scientist!

Tayo na sa Sineskwela
Tuklasin natin ang siyensya
Kinabukasan ng ating bayan
Siguradong makakamtan!

Sa daigdig ng agham
Tuklasin ang kaalaman
Halina't lumipad
Sa daigdig ng isipan

Tayo na sa Sineskwela
Tuklasin natin ang siyensya
Kinabukasan ng ating bayan
Siguradong makakamtan

Kaya't habang maaga
Mag-aral ng siyensya
Sa teknolohiya,
Ang buhay ay gaganda... ahhhh...

Tayo na sa Sineskwela
Tuklasin natin ang siyensya
Buksan ang pag-iisip
Tayo'y likas na scientist

Tayo na sa Sineskwela
Tuklasin natin ang siyensya
Kinabukasan ng ating bayan
Si-gu-ra-dong maka-kamtaaaaaan...




What is there to say about Sineskwela? Actually quite a lot. Well, that is for us who grew up watching Sineskwela back in the 90s. Sineskwela was a good educational show. It piqued the curiosity and interest of grade school students in Science and Technology. It re-define how Science should be taught. That Science can be learned and presented in a fun and entertaining way and not as a dull and boring cold textbook type of one. This is probably one of the factor, why I considered Science as one of my favorite subjects back in grade school, well except for the tedious memorization during recitations and exams hahaha. It featured a good format which seems to be lacking with most contemporary educational programming (2015 - as of the time of this writing) that major television networks are coming up with nowadays. Although Sineskwela did use various stock footage from other foreign Science shows way back in the days (maybe for the lack of other resource), the show was still able to properly explain science to kids.



Some episodes of Sineskwela have been uploaded on Youtube for you to have an idea of what the show looks and feels like. Simply search "sineskwela" on Youtube.
Some Sineskwela episodes that truly left a mark with me are the episode dedicated to photosynthesis with discussion of chlorophyll; and water treatment process before it becomes safe and drinkable with a jingle that describes the process of sedimentation, filtration, boiling, and distillation. Sineskwela, just like Beakman's World were a groundbreaking edutainment shows for children that will forever be in the hearts of those who grew up watching them and has a penchant for Science and learning.


How about you guys? What are your fondest and favorite memories, episodes, characters, and topics covered in the phenomenal ABS-CBN 90s Science-theme edutainment kids show? Have you seen newer contemporary Science educational programs that has the same feel and vibe to Sineskwela? Do these new shows work or have done a better work that what most of us grew up with Sineskwela? Share your thoughts and opinion about Sineskwela in the comments section below:

Koseidon | Dinosaur Corps Koseidon | ABS-CBN 90s Filipino-Dubbed Tokusatsu Show

Koseidon was a Filipino-dubbed Japanese superhero tokusatsu show that aired every Sundays in ABS-CBN during the 90s (1991 and later 1995). Koseidon was originally Dinosaur Corps Koseidon (恐竜戦隊コセイドン Kyōryū Sentai Koseidon), a Japanese Tokusatsu TV series produced by Tsuburaya Productions in two seasons starting from 1978 with a total of 52 episodes. Let's take a look back with the time-traveling red superhero who is simply called as Koseidon and his team.


Dinosaur Corps Koseidon - The Story
About Koseidon

Dinosaur Corps Koseidon tells the adventures of Go, a superhero leading a time-travelling patrol to defeat aliens who have altered the course of time after landing on a prehistoric Earth. Dinosor Corps Koseidon and the leader Go's enemies include dinosaurs which are telepathically controlled by the aliens. Koseidon has the ability to stop time for 30 seconds to finish off the enmies.

Koseidon Opening and Closing Theme
Dinosaur Corps Koseidon Series Intro and Outro


What is there to say about Dinosaur Corps Koseidon? Well first off, I'll drop the Dinosaur Corps and simply refer to the show as Koseidon. In my research, I stumbled upon the information that Koseidon aired twice in ABS-CBN; first being in 1991 and later in 1995. I actually misheard this series protagonist's name and called him "Poseidon", substituting "P" with "K". I later found out that Poseidon was the Olympian deity (the God of the Sea) and not the red sentai-like ranger, Koseidon. Little know fact, Koseidon in its original Japanese text translates to "Kyōryū Sentai Koseidon", but Koseidon is not a sentai; specifically not a part of the "Super Sentai" series. Well initially "sentai" means a military unit and may be literally translated as "squadron", "task force", "group" or "wing" (as defined by Wikipedia), so since Koseidon is more of the task force assigned to protect time from a malevolent alien race, then it really did deserve the "sentai" in its title. It is only later that the word "sentai" has been adapted into a group of (usually) five members along with their mecha(s); later adding the word "super" in the term "Super Sentai" to differentiate this kind of tokusatsu.



High quality Dinosaur Corps Koseidon image can be seen circulating online since this nostalgic show was released on DVD. You can simply go check various online stores if you are interested in reliving this series.




Going back to reminiscing about Koseidon. I think, I was already was a big fan of various tokusatsu shows like Ultraman, MagmaMan, and MachineMan; which is why I always associate Koseidon as an individual and not as a military unit. Well, I was a 90s kid so I was excused to believe anything I want. My fondest recollection is Go being fired in this cannon where he eventually transforms (henshins) into the "time warrior" Koseidon (the individual). I've seen a few clips of Koseidon online and I can say it didn't really stood up well to the test of time (the irony), as I found myself laughing at the premise of time-travel and its possible (butterfly-effect) complications and how dark "old" Japanese kids show can get. I listened and watched the opening and closing theme for Koseidon again which brought some vague memories of it. Memories of Koseidon being launched off... "Fightus Bomber One, take off... Fightus Bomber Two, Take off..." I don't even know if "Fightus" is even what they were saying. This is coming from a 90s kid who though Koseidon's name was spelled and pronounced as Poseidon.


How about you guys? Do you still remember this Filipino-dubbed tokusatsu show that aired in ABS-CBN around the 90s? What is your fondest recollection about the show? Do you have any merchandise, favorite episode, or character in the show? Share us your thoughts and memories about Dinosaur Corps Koseidon in the comments section below:

Ang TV | An ABS-CBN 90s Youth-Oriented Variety Gag Show Retrospective

Ang TV was a Filipino youth-oriented (kids') gag variety show that aired in ABS-CBN during the 90s. Ang TV originally aired from October 19, 1992 to January 3, 1997 with a 30-minute show format airing on a daily afternoon 4:30 schedule. The show was notable for it's opening line "4:30 Na! Ang TV na!", and gags opening up with "Esmyuskee" (a play of the word "excuse me") and "Nge!" after the delivery of the punchline. Let's go down memory lane Ang TV, the iconic kids gag show that created most of the most notable ABS-CBN stars as of late.


Ang TV - The Show
About Ang TV

Ang TV ("The TV") was a kids' "gag-variety" show in the Philippines from ABS-CBN. Prior to 1992, Director Johnny Manahan enlisted a group of multi-talented kids (& pre-teens) to create the first ever gag-variety show for youngsters in the Philippines.


Most of the country's (ABS-CBN) celebrities can point their humble beginnings to Ang TV. Claudine Barretto, Angelu de Leon, Jolina Magdangal, Rica Peralejo, Paula Peralejo, John Prats, Camille Prats, John Prats, Paolo Contis, Angelica Panganiban, Patrick Garcia, Christopher Roxas, Jan Marini, Victor Neri, Kaye Abad, Roselle Nava, Maybelyn dela Cruz, Katya Santos, Carol Banawa, Baron Geisler, Kristine Hermosa, Anna Larrucea, and Vandolph Quizon are some of the most notable stars that jump-started their careers as mainstays of the variety show. A few adults drops in from time to time to join in the craziness of the show which includes Winnie Cordero, Joji Isla, Giselle Sanchez, and Joy Viado.

Ang TV Opening Theme
Ang TV Series Intro



Ang TV's theme: "Do Wah Diddy Diddy"
Manfred Mann


Luckily there is a clip on Youtube that captures what Ang TV was like back in the days.
Check out this Ang TV show clip:






While most GMA Network talents and celebrities have That's Entertainment to thank for, ABS-CBN's have Ang TV. It features some of the most notable celebrities as of the featuring of this blog dedicated to the show (2015). Some of the names have been included on the "About" section of this look back. There are a personal few favorites like Lailani Navarro and Lidsay Custodio for their sheer majestic beauty; and Jolina Magdangal, Roselle Nava, and Carol Banawa for their singing prowess. It is quite entertaining to bee able to see how celebrities grow up and see how their career unfolds in front of the television (or film) screen. I am talking about how such innocent and adorable young looking kids as these kids are will eventually become the next iconic stars of tomorrow in various fields of entertainment (theater, singing, film, television) and outside of it (politics). Of course since I am not big into those kinds of stuf as a 90s Filipino kid back in the days, I remember Ang TV for its very short skits and gags. Well what do you expect for a 30 minute long show with many television commercials in between. Going Bulilit is probably one of its spiritual successor but to most growing up during the 90s this is the definitive kids' gag-variety show.


How about you guys? What do you think about this iconic ABS-CBN youth-oriented gag variety show? Do you have any favorite moments on the shows run back in the 90s? Any favorite celebrities making an appearance or a mainstay? What's your fondest memory of the show? Share your thoughts about Ang TV in the comments section below:

Magandang Gabi, Bayan | An ABS-CBN 80s News Magazine Program Retrospective

Magandang Gabi, Bayan (also Magandang Gabi... Bayan) was one of the longest-running and top-rating ABS-CBN News & Current Affairs' news magazine program initially hosted by "Kabayan" Noli de Castro (hosted from 1988 to 2004) that originally an from August 21, 1988 to December 31, 2005. Magandang Gabi, Bayan (abbreviated as MGB) was an ABS-CBN consistent top-rating early fringe (late-afternoon)show initially aired every Saturdays at 6:00 PM that features various topics like contemporary national issues, poverty, crime, corruption, scandals, various inspirational and uplifting real life Filipino (sometimes international) stories. Let's go down memory lane as Retro Pilipinas takes a look back on Magandang Gabi, Bayan.

Magandang Gabi, Bayan - The Show
About Magandang Gabi... Bayan! (MGB)

Magandang Gabi, Bayan (directly translates to "Good Evening Nation!") started on August 21, 1988 with its first anchored by Manuel Leuterio de Castro, Jr., better known as "Kabayan" Noli de Castro (2004–2010 former Vice President of the Philippines). Magandang Gabi, Bayan or simply MGB aims to expose illegalities of some Philippine government officials as well as to render public service to the Filipino people. Initially intended to be a news magazine program it later evolved into a hardhitting investigative journalism program. The now defunct show continues to hold the title for the leading and longest public service program in the Philippines.
After De Castro's won the 2001 Philippine senatorial elections, the program brought in new hosts Katherine "Kat-Kat" de Castro (De Castro's daughter), Erwin Tulfo and Henry Omaga-Diaz. The show returned for one episode (hosted by De Castro) on October 2011 for a Halloween Special via ABS-CBN's Sunday's Best.

Memories of Magandang Gabi, Bayan!
Remembering Magandang Gabi... Bayan! (MGB)

The best memories I had (being a 90's kid) of Magandang Gabi Bayan or MGB was with their annual Halloween special episodes. If the coming Staurday is close to November 1, then the avid Filipino couch potatoes are in for a spooktacular treat by Magandang Gabi... Bayan's Halloween specials.

Magandang Gabi Bayan 2004 Halloween Special
Here is a sample of what we have experience back when MGB was still the king!

Don't get me wrong, MGB was a pioneer when it comes to investigative journalism in the Philippines with its interesting episodes each week, but the one that everyone will truly remember is the scary halloween specials. Thanks to Philippines rich culture and tradition, Filipinos will always have some spooky experience to share. Whether you believe it or not, MGB was there to make sure to re-tell and feature these real-life stories of supernatural horror. MGB used well-done re-enactments which can be compared to a good Filipino horror flick. Creepy atmosphere, terrifying scoring, believable make-up and practical effects is what Filipinos usually see on a MGB Halloween Special. Those who made MGB part of their Saturday television routine can probably say that the year won't be complete without a Magandang Gabi... Bayan Horror episode.

Magandang Gabi... Bayan's Halloween specials made me the horror genre fan that I am today. How about you guys? What is/are your most memorable episode or story remembered featured from this ABS-CBN long-running and top rating news magazine program? Share your thoughts about Magandang Gabi... Bayan in the comments section below:

Are You Afraid of the Dark? | ABS-CBN 90s Horror Anthology Television Series

Are You Afraid of the Dark? was a joint Canadian-American horror/fantasy-themed anthology television series around the 90s which was locally aired in the Philippines on ABS-CBN every Friday nights. Are You Afraid of the Dark? originally ran in Nickelodeon (in the US) and YTV (Canada) from October 31, 1991 to June 11, 2000. This iconic American horror anthology series featured a group of teenagers called the Midnight Society sharing light-hearted to disturbing tales of suspense and horror with frequent elements of moral values. Let's go down memory lane with Are You Afraid of the Dark?.

Are You Afraid of the Dark? - The Show
About Are You Afraid of the Dark?

Are You Afraid of the Dark? revolves around a group of teenagers who referred to themselves as "The Midnight Society". Are You Afraid of the Dark's Midnight Society (on the first Season) comprised of Gary (portrayed by Ross Hull), An unassuming, bookish looking boy. The founder of the Midnight Society; Betty Ann (Raine Pare-Coull), A vibrant girl who has an open and eager passion for the bizarre and twisted; Kiki (Jodie Resther), A spunky, tomboyish girl who often makes fun of others; Frank (Jason Alisharan), A punkish teenager with an in-your-face attitude; Tucker (Daniel DeSanto), Gary's younger brother, and the youngest member of the Midnight Society; Samantha (Joanna García), A shy girl with an obvious mutual crush on Gary, which becomes one of the highlighted arches of both their developments in the series; Kristen (Rachel Blanchard), A girl who though squeamish about much else, has a fondness for ghost stories and fairy tales; David (Nathaniel Moreau), A quiet boy with a mysterious expression; Eric (Jacob Tierney), ric is portrayed as a diminutive teenager with visible Irish ancestry that influences his first story; and Stig (Codie Wilbee), His nickname may come from the term stigma, as he is marked an outsider for his notable lack of hygiene, Stig is the last initiate to be entered into the Midnight Society's generation at the time.

Every week The Midnight Society meets at a secret base located in the woods where one member would tell a scary story to the group. Each storyteller (per episode) would begin their story by saying "Submitted for the approval of the Midnight Society, I call this story..." at which point he or she would toss a handful of "midnight dust" from a leather pouch into the campfire to heighten the flames and produce an eerie white smoke. The storyteller would continue by announcing its title "The Tale of..." with the title of week's episode. Each story was displayed to the television viewer. The story was shown between the group's arrival at the site and their departure.

The themes of the stories usually revolves around a variety of paranormal phenomena such as ghosts, goblins, magic, dragons, haunted houses, magical curses, aliens, witches, vampires, etc. Usually, the episodes were either filmed in the woods, in abandoned houses, or in public places like schools or libraries. Sources of these tales vary in different ways; many were adaptations of public domain fairy tales and short stories or urban legends. Sometimes, the stories were inspired by a certain event in the life of the storyteller. In the episode "The Tale of the Crimson Clown", for instance, Tucker blackmailed his brother Gary with a poem he had found, which Gary had written for Samantha. Gary then told a story in which a naughty younger brother was punished cruelly for his evil deeds. At the end of the episode, Tucker gave the poem back to his brother. At the end of most episodes, one character would conclude the Midnight Society's meeting by throwing a red bucket of water onto the fire, stating "I declare this meeting of the Midnight Society closed." and the group would leave the campsite, thus ending the storytelling and episode.

Are You Afraid of the Dark? Opening Theme
Are You Afraid of the Dark? Series Intro

Are You Afraid of the Dark? was one of the most popular television series back in the 90s amidst its scary nature. This anthology series could also be the reason why I am personally into horror movies as an adult.

The family would usually tune in to ABS-CBN that Friday night just to get spooked out of the week's episode. Although the opening and closing credits didn't feature any lyrics in it, its creepy tune and imageries become the signature trademark, well besides that midnight dust throwing in the beginning of each stories. Thinking of it now, those kids were really gutsy to first have a secret base deep set up in the woods in the middle of a dark night only to share tales of horrors. I vaguely remember each episode now, but there was this one episode that seem to planted itself firmly on my consciousness everytime I remember the series. I can't remember the exact episode title but it is the story where a group of people were trapped underground and there was this monster that kills (the show never actually shows the killing of the victims) or takes each of them away. With the last part of the story ending with them seeing a light at the end of this cave only to find themselves trapped and the monster on the same area. So if you guys still remember it, you can share that episode's title.

How about you guys, what's your most memorable Midnight Society storyteller, moment, episode or stories in this popular 90s horror anthology television series? Share your thoughts about Are You Afraid of the Dark in the comments section below:

Ultraman | An ABS-CBN 90s Dubbed Japanese Tokusatsu Series Retrospective

Ultraman was a Filipino dubbed super hero kids show which aired in ABS-CBN around the early 90s. Ultraman (Urutoraman) was a Japanese tokusatsu television series following up to the television series Ultra Q. Ultraman was was produced by the Tokyo Broadcasting System and Tsuburaya Productions, and was broadcast on Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) from July 17, 1966 to April 9, 1967, with a total of 39 episodes. Let's go down memory lane and reminisce that original Super Hero Giant Alien, Ultraman.

Ultraman - The Story
Ultraman Series Plot

Ultraman is set on the near future when sinister aliens and giant monsters constantly threaten civilization during the said period. The only Earth organization equipped to handle these disasters is the Science Special Search Party also known as S.S.S.P. (SSSP), a special worldwide police force equipped with high-tech weapons and vehicles, as well as extensive scientific and engineering facilities. The branch of the Science Patrol that is focused on in the series is located in Tokyo, Japan. Led by Captain "Cap" Toshio Muramatsu, the Science Patrol is always ready to protect the Earth from rampaging monsters, but sometimes it finds itself outclassed. When the situation becomes desperate, Shin Hayata, the Patrol's most capable member, holds the key to salvation in the form of a power-object and artifact called the "Beta Capsule," which, whenever activated, allows him to transform secretly into the super-humanoid-powered giant from space, who becomes known to the people of Earth as Ultraman.

Despite Ultraman's many amazing powers, Ultraman has one main weakness. Since Earth's atmosphere leeches away his solar energy, Ultraman can only physically exist on Earth for approximately three to five minutes of Earth time. To signal this, a warning light in Ultraman's chest (called the Color Timer) starts out at blue. At the 1 minute mark it starts to blink, and then turns red and blinks faster at the two minute mark. If the Color Timer/warning light stops, Ultraman will "never rise again." Obviously, at whatever point the blinking begins, Ultraman typically has only a short amount of time left to defeat his foe and return to his human host. However, Ultraman has occasionally been able to extend his operating time by flying towards the Sun and "recharging."

Ultraman remains until the threat is neutralized and then flies away to revert back to Hayata. Ultraman's victory is never assured, however, as Ultraman's powers and, indeed, his very life force, come from rapidly depleted, stored solar energy. At the beginning of each transformation from Hayata-to-Ultraman, the "warning light" on the giant's chest begins as a steady blue color. Yet as Ultraman exerts himself, the "Color Timer," as it is also called, turns red, then blinks--slowly at first, then with increasing rapidity--as his energy reserves get closer to exhaustion.

Ultraman Opening Theme
Ultraman Series Intro



Check out additional footage and fan-made opening for Ultraman.

Ultraman holds a special place in my childhood memory. Before all my fascination with other tokusatsu and super sentai series of the 90s, there was first the Ultraman. Although I vaguely remember the schedule of the show, what I do remember is watching it together with father. I usually mimicked the Ultra moves and finishers ala Crayon Shinchan. I also vaguely remember getting creep out with certain scenes and monsters from the series as they are not the usual "child-friendly" images that you use to see here in the Philippines.

How about you guys, what was the Ultraman series to you? Any favorite episode, scene, merchandise, or monstres of Ultraman? Share them along with your thoughts about the Original Ultraman in the comments section below:

Batibot | A PTV 80s Educational Show for Children Retrospective

Batibot was a popular Filipino children's television program based on Sesame Street. Batibot, a Filipino word which directly translates to "small, but strong and robust" premiered in May 14, 1984, with the name Sesame! which was eventually renamed to Batibot several years later. Batibot used both English and Filipino as the media of communication back when it was still Sesame! but became a completely Filipino language children's educational show once it transitioned to Batibot. Batibot broadcast nationwide from Monday to Friday on the Philippine television networks Radio Philippines Network (RPN) from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. and on People's Television (PTV) (now National Broadcasting Network) from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. In 1991, the show switched to ABS-CBN but switched back to RPN in 1994 after the former decided to produce its own set of children TV programs through the ABS-CBN Foundation. In 1995, PCTVF signed a contract with GMA Network and Batibot was shown at its original morning time slot. It ran from May 14, 1984 – June 30, 2002 and later came back on TV5. Let's go down memory lane as we remember Batibot.

Batibot - The Show
About Batibot

Batibot featured both humans, muppets, and mascots as its main cast of characters. batibot is one of the Philippines' longest running educational kids program. The original Batibot human cast included Kuya Bodjie, (played by Bodjie Pascua), Batibot's resident story-teller know for his opening line "Mga Bata..." when starting with his stories; Ate Sienna (Sienna Olaso) a college student; Kuya Mario (Junix Inocian); Ate Isay (Isay Alvarez-Seña) popular for her "Kapit-bahay" music; and Kuya Ching (Ching Arellano), Batibot's resident jeepney driver.

BATIBOT Television Special and Original Cast Reunion

In 2007, A Batibot Reunion and Tribute Special was featured in a segment in Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho. Check it out here fellow Batang Batibot(s).

Some of Batibot's most notable muppet/mascot cast included Pong Pagong, a clumsy, pink full-body turtle wearing a baseball cap from Jose Rizal's story of "Ang Pagong at ang Matsing"; Kiko Matsing, a brown monkey version of Sesame Street's Oscar which is also Ang Pagong at ang Matsing; Koko Kwik-Kwak, or Koko for short that wears an ethnic-inspired beanie cap with a propeller made of green leaves; Manang Bola, the forgetful fortuneteller who still relies too much on her crystal ball named "perlas na bilog,". She divines the future by chanting "Bolang bilog, huwag patulog-tulog; sabihin ang sagot" and "ba-be-bi-bo-bu", teaching vowels in the process; Sitsiritsit and Alibangbang, two inquisitive space aliens who take delight in discovering things, places and people around them. Inspired from the nursery rhyme "Sitsiritsit, Alibangbang"; Ningning and Gingging*, the sisters. Ningning is the eldest girl, the serious type, while Gingging is younger and the playful one between the two siblings; and Kapitan Basa*, a superhero that loves to read. He solves language-related problems caused by his arch-nemesis, Patlang-Palit.

Batibot Opening Theme
Batibot Show Intro



Batibot Theme Song Lyrics

Pagmulat ng mata,
Langit nakatawa
Sa batibot,
Sa batibot
Tayo nang magpunta
Tuklasin sa batibot
Ang tuwa, ang saya

Doon sa batibot
Tayo na, tayo na
Mga bata sa batibot
Maliksi, masigla. (2x)

Dali, sundan natin
Ang ngiti ng araw
Doon sa batibot (2x)

Tayo nang magpunta
Tuklasin sa batibot
Ang tuwa, ang saya

Doon sa batibot
Tayo na, tayo na
Mga bata sa batibot
Maliksi, masigla. (2x)

I am one of those Batang Batibot Kids who usually takes a break from the usual censored violence of US animated shows and Japanese anime(s). Everyday was Batibot Day with Kuya Bodgie reading us stories with matching illustrations, the angelic voice of Ate Isay, the gruff voice of Kiko, and the playful Pong. 90s kids connected and related to Batibot because that is one of the only educational shows presented in Filipino which make it stand out from Sesame Street and the countless of animations which are usually dubbed in English. Well, this is probably just me growing up fascinated with puppets but back then they were really a good source of rich colorful information and imagination. Well we now have the internet for that. For people who grew up with Batibot, they will forever be in our hearts and minds. How about a home video compilations to give our kids a chance?

How about you guys, were you a Batang Batibot? Any favorite muppet, mascot, human character, segment, music, story or mercandise you want to share? Let us here your thoughts about Batibot in the comments section below:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles | 90s ABS-CBN American Animated Series

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or TMNT was an American animated television series that began back in December 28, 1987 starting as a 5-part miniseries and later becoming a regular Saturday morning syndicated series on October 1, 1988 with 13 more episodes. TMNT the cartoon series originally ran from December 28, 1987 to November 2, 1996. Contrary to its original Mirage Studios comics source that was created by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles animated series placed a much stronger emphasis on humor than the comics. The series was produced by Murakami-Wolf-Swenson Film Productions Inc (later Fred Wolf Films). Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon series originally aired in various syndicated channels in the United States from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The cartoon series also fell victim to heavy censorship that time, In the UK, TMNT was released under the name Teenage Mutant Hero Turtles. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles aired in ABS-CBN around the 90s on a Saturday-Sunday morning block. Let's take a look back at the well loved turtles in a half shell, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - The Story
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Series Plot

An honorable ninja master named Hamato Yoshi, banished from the Foot Clan in Japan was exiled and moved to New York where he was forced to live in the sewers. One day he found four turtles, recently bought from a pet store by an unnamed boy who accidentally dropped them in the sewer. After exploring the sewers along with his friend rats, Toshi found the turtles covered with a strange glowing ooze that caused the turtles (most recently exposed to Yoshi) to become humanoid, while Yoshi (most recently exposed to sewer rats) became a humanoid rat, and started going by the pseudonym "Splinter". Yoshi adopts the four turtles as his sons and trains them in the art of ninjitsu. He names them after his favorite Italian renaissance artists: Leonardo da Vinci (Leonardo), wears a blue mask and wields two Katana; Donato di Niccolò di Betto Bardi (Donatello), wears a purple mask and wields the bō staff; Raffaello Sanzio (Raphael), wears a red mask and wields a pair of sai; and Michelangelo Buonarroti (Michaelangelo), wears an orange mask and wields a pair of nunchaku.

Oroku Saki, the man who deceived and disgraced Yoshi's name left Japan and tracked Yoshi to New York City, where he intends to destroy him once and for all. He become associated with Krang, a disembodied alien brain who has been banished from his home, Dimension X. Saki then took a new persona, donning a suit covered with razor spikes, complemented by a long cape, and a metal mask over his mouth. He has also taken on the pseudonym "The Shredder". The two is later joined by Bebop and Rocksteady, two street thugs morphed into an animal humanoid form by exposure to the Shredder's mutagen; and a small army of robotic Foot Soldiers. Their aim is try to destroy the Turtles and take over the world. In their quest to restore their master's honor, Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michaelangelo begin to take on the role of vigilante crime-fighters against any criminals. The team is later joined by Channel 6 reporter April O'Neil who usually needs rescuing from Shredder and later with another vigilante Casey Jones.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Opening Theme
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Series Intro

The idea of anthromorphic group of teenage mutant ninja turtles protecting the world from evil was very entertaining to kids growing up in the 90s, myself included. It featured brothers bounded by a common cause who still have time to be jolly and happy. Looking back at it now, it sure has some phased out 90s funny moments but it doesn't hold well if you compare them with a much more serious tones of animated series nowadays. Well it was a different time back then and even if they followed the original serious tone of the comic source it was based from, it might eventually get censored out.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was purely for kids who won't dare to ask us what could have happened to the people living in that apartment that the Technodrome just destroyed. Well it was fun while it lasted. The show made me crave for pizzas back in the days. For a kid living in a small suburban provincial neighborhood, pizza became that dream snack. It made me ask who are those famous people behind the name of the four turtles making me know that besides being artists in their time, they were also scientists. There are also later incarnations of the Teenage Mutant ninja Turtles, but this one holds a special memory as this is the first TMNT animated series which the film also took inspiration from.

How about you guys, what's your fondest memory, episode, characters, or memorabilia of the 90s US cartoon show? Share your thoughts about the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in the comment section below: