The QLE Awards

Well, we did it. Go out right now and get a copy of the Manila Bulletin or the Philippine Daily Inquirer! (Still waiting on word from the Star). Read the results of... *fanfare* The first-ever QLE Awards! And yes, QLE stands for Quark Henares, Luis Katigbak and Erwin Romulo. "The most clever name we could come up with because we write for a living and are filled to the brim with creativity," as Quark said with beautiful sarcasm. (I wondered out loud if it was a good idea to name it after ourselves, but Erwin pointed out that doing so emphasizes the personal nature of these choices. Good point.)

Excerpts from our respective intros:

LUIS: "This was an unbelievably good year for music: don't let anybody tell you otherwise. That's why brash boyish filmmaker/ writer/ rakista Quark Henares, all-around artistic force of nature Erwin Romulo and yours truly decided to shout mash notes to our favorite bands from the rooftops via our own little 'awards show.'"

ERWIN: "To be honest, I’d rather call it the Anton Ego Awards, after the character of the critic in the animated film Ratatouille. If anything, he’s the best character in the film in the sense that all the presumptions about him were overturned in the film’s climax. He was feared and respected but only because he really knew what he was talking about and -- above all -- honest. Being obsequious or pandering didn’t influence him but rather just whether he liked what he tasted or not. Even if it was cooked and prepared by a rat."

QUARK: "Most of you might not agree with our choices, but you know what they say about opinions and assholes. It just so happened these assholes write for broadsheets as well. Before I begin, I’d just like to clarify that I love the NU Rock Awards. Hell, I’ve even written two and directed one. But controversy is always great, so why not use that to highlight and point towards some of the artists who have truly touched us this year?"

Am very happy with what the Bulletin did with my part of all this. It sprawls over 2 pages (E-3 to E-4) and has pictures and stuff. Many many thanks to Yonina and Section Editor Joyce! :D

UPDATE: It's on pages C-1 and C-2 of the Inquirer. :)