[ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo Featured Image from Eat Bulaga Facebook Page.] Anticipation over finding Teodoro Smash a.k.a. Dodong is at a fever’s pitch at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Bad blood between Dodong and the Zobeyala sisters caused records like photographs to be misplaced on Divina’s maternal relatives’ part. More like deliberately misplaced. If Lola Nidora can go as far as turning Divina into the household YayaDUB Smash for the sake of keeping her away from Dodong, that meant obliterating Dodong’s existence from Divina altogether.
Alden and Divina were by the entrance watching the rain fall. 2 open fluviophiles contemplated on what this search can bring to their lives. Alden had not so pleasant memories of the rain though. He used this to break the ice at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Alam mo kung ano ang naaalala ko sa ulan dati? Yung ikakasal ka kay Frankie. Tapos alam mo kung ano ang weird nun? Ang lakas ng ulan pero maaraw.” (You know what do I remember about the rain before? That was when you were about to marry Frankie. Then you know what else is weird then? It was raining hard but it was sunny.)
Divina remembered the wedding too well way back in the ALDUB Against All Odds episode. “Oo nga. Nakita ko yung sikat ng araw nun.” (Yes. I saw the sun beams then.) Alden then went straight to the question at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Pero handa ka na ba talagang makilala ang tatay mo?” (But are you really ready to see your father?) At this point in the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode, Divina had apprehensions. “Kasi alam mo, yun lang ang wish ko ngayong Pasko eh.” (Because you know, it’s my only wish this Christmas.)
Alden got a little miffed as if expecting a different answer. “Yun lang ang wish mo? Yun lang?” (That’s your only wish? Only that?) Alden got a little distraught and ended up DUBsmashing his own song “Wish I May”. Divina replied by first DUBsmashing “Wish” by Donna Cruz and Jason Everly. Then by comforting Alden. It seems like Alden and Divina had reached a level of comfort in talking to each other. They didn’t know whether to DUBsmash or just speak at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode.
Once the DUBsmash exchange is done and over with. Divina straight up asked Alden. “Ano yan? Ba’t nagtatampo ka?” (What the heck? Why are you upset?) Alden let out his complaint. “Sabi mo yun lang ang wish mo eh.” (You said that it’s your only wish.) Divina just laughed it off since Alden looked cute while trying to look sad. “Sus! Yun lang pala. Siempre wish ko rin na wag tayong mag-away. Ano ba? Na sana lagi tayong magkasama. Wag tayong magkalayo. At saka siempre, wag tayong susuko. Ganun. Alam mo? Di bagay sa yo ang ganyang hitsura. Hindi bagay sa yo. Ngumiti ka na. Di bagay sa yo lungkut-lungkutan.” (Jesus! So that’s all. Of course I also wished that we won’t fight. What? That we will always be together. That we won’t part. And of course, that we won’t give up. That’s how. You know what? That look doesn’t suit you. Doesn’t suit you. Smile now. Pretending to look sad doesn’t look good on you.) So Divina cracked a joke again.
“Anong fries ang nakakagulat?”
“Ano?”
“SurFRIES!”
“Ako meron. Drums ka ba?”
“Bakit?”
“Kasi pag wala ka, nawawalan ng beat ang puso ko.”
“Anong toes ang namboboso?”
“Ano?”
“Bus TOES.”
Alden had to be blunt about some jokes though. “Di ko alam kung tatawa ako o ano eh.” (I don’t know whether to laugh or what.) Divina justified the jokes though at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Pinapasaya na nga kita. Pero ano kaya tingin mong hitsura ng tatay ko ano? Sabi kasi nina lola sa akin, matipuno daw. Malaki daw ang katawan.” (Here I am trying to make you laugh. But in your opinion, how did my father looked like? Granny told me, he had a muscular frame. That he had a big body.)
Alden then flexed his muscles. Divina reacted a little sarcastically. “Tatay ba kita?” (Are you my father?) Divina then continued. “Malaki daw ang katawan. Tapos guapo. ‘Tay?” (He was said to have a big body. Then handsome … Father?) Alden tried to ride on the joke. “Ako? Ako pala yun? Hindi. Hindi puede. Ano to?” (Me? Could it be me? No! No way! What the heck?)
Divina then voiced out the biggest speculation on perhaps the biggest proof of blood relations sought in the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Magaling din kaya siya mag-DUBsmash? Dun ako pinakanaiintriga eh. Kung magaling din ba siya mag-DUBsmash.” (Could he be good at DUBsmash too? That’s the most intriguing part for me. If he’s great at DUBsmashing too.) Divina knew her father’s full name is Teodoro Smash. The “Smash” part of his name got her thinking.
Alden then assured her that her dad is handsome. “Guapo yun. Alam mo kung bakit? Kasi maganda ka eh.” (He’s handsome. You know why Because you’re beautiful.) Divina was so thankful for the compliment. Alden didn’t forget the reminders though for the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Pero wag kang iiyak mamaya ha? Pag nakita mo ang tatay mo. Alam ko matagal na panahon kayong hindi nagkita. Pero eto yung moment na dapat happy lang kayo kasi nagkita na kayo finally. Walang iyakan.” (Don’t cry later okay? Once you see your dad. I know it’s been a long time before you finally meet each other. But this is the moment where you should only be happy because you have finally met. No tears.)
Divina took Alden’s advice at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Sige. Susubukan kong maging masaya.” (Okay. I would try to be happy.) Alden affirmed Divina’s decision. “Isa yun sa mga pinakamagagandang regalong matatanggap mo … Bukod sa akin.” (It will be one of the best gifts you will receive …. Apart from me.) Divina kind of heard Alden. But she isn’t sure if she heard him right. “Ano? Ano? Ano? Bukod sa yo? Ikaw talaga.” (What? What? What? Apart from you? Oh you stop you.)
Alden apologized. “Sorry. Binuhat ko na naman ang sariling bangko ko.” (Sorry. I lifted my own bench again.) [“Binuhat ko na naman ang sariling bangko ko” is a Filpino idiomatic expression about boasting one’s self to other people.] Divina didn’t mind Alden’s gesture. “Hindi. Ikaw talaga. Siempre ikaw talaga Christmas wish ko.” (No. Really. Of course you’re really my Christmas wish.)
Alden tried to crack a joke again at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. But Divina’s phone alerted with a message from Dodong. [I thought nobody had Dodong’s number.] Divina then relayed Dodong’s message. “Papunta na raw siya dito. Antayin natin. Medyo na-traffic lang daw. Naku kasi umuulan eh.” (He said that he’s already on his way here. We just have to wait. He just got stuck in traffic. That’s the problem with the rain.) Alden and Divina later sat at the top of the ladder to wait.
Later in the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Lola Nidora and Donya Tinidora arrived. They wore dusters this time instead of the almost corporate-looking Sunday dresses. But the hair ornaments are still there. They were accompanied by the Rogelios who no longer wore the blue barongs. Donya Tinidora had to ask Lola Nidora what are they doing at the Broadway Centrum again. Lola Nidora explained. “Ang sabi sa kin ni Divina eh dito daw sila magtatagpo.” (Divina told me that they of her father will meet here.)
Donya Tinidora found it embarrassing to be at the service of Broadway Centrum again. “Alam mo nahihiya na ‘ko ha? Lagi na lang tayo dito. Dati naimbita tayo. Tapos ngayon dito magkikita. Hindi kaya nakakahiya na sa mga dabarkads?” (You know I already feel ashamed of the courtesy. We are often here. We’ve been invited before. Now they will meet here. Isn’t it already embarrassing to the ‘dabarkads’?) Lola Nidora didn’t mind. Donya Tinidora was excited though.
Donya Tinidora had no idea what Dodong looked like. She only learned of Divina’s true parentage from Lola Nidora. “Ano ba talaga ang hitsura ni Dodong? Wala bang kapiktyur piktyur man lang?” (How does Dodong look like? Didn’t he even leave any picture whatsover?) In the ALDUB Getting Closer episode, Donya Tinidora dispelled Donya Tidora’s misconception that she is Divina’s mother. But Donya Tinidora took care of Divina as an infant despite not knowing her origins. Now a spinster and childless as of the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Divina is the closest that she had to a daughter.
Only Lola Nidora and Isadora [through the ALDUB Road to Forever episode] knew how Dodong looked like. Lola Nidora tried to describe how she remembered Dodong. “Gaya na nasabi ko dati, makisig yang si Dodong. Matipuno. Kulot.” (Like what I’ve said before, Dodong is manly. Muscular. With curly hair.) There is no assurance though if he still looked the same. It would be the first time in years for them to see him again. This time at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Lola Nidora chose a spot backstage to give the Rogelio Rogelio Rogelio (minus one absent) their Christmas bonuses.
The Rogelio Rogelio Rogelio pledged not to leave Lola Nidora through a fan sign. As of the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode, the closest these men got for a dialogue was a song. Then a fan sign where they pledged their loyalty to the grannies. Donya Tinidora knew why the Rogelio Rogelio Rogelio are staying. “Kasi wala namang kukuha sa inyo.” (Because no one else would hire you.) Whatever the Rogelio Rogelio Rogelio lacked in efficiency, they made up in loyalty. No wonder Lola Nidora easily outsmarted them in getting her cash back to pay her debt to Donya Tinidora.
Alden and Divina then arrived. They found the grannies at Alden’s den. All of them then waited by the hall for Dodong. Divina then informed them of Dodong’s SMS. “Si Tatay daw po papunta na.” (Father is already on his way.) Lola Nidora had to ask how Divina felt as of the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Ano ang pakiramdam mo?” (How do you feel?) Divina was honest enough to admit her mixed emotions. “Kinakabahan po ako eh.” (I am nervous.) Lola Nidora didn’t know what else to tell Divina. So she turned to Donya Tinidora.“Tinidora, kinakabahan daw siya.” (She’s nervous.)
Donya Tinidora’s sarcasm kicked in again. “Wag kang kabahan. Hindi ka naman kasali sa contest.” (Don’t be nervous. You’re not in the contest.) Divina felt too nervous to say the least. “Parang nahihilo nga po ako eh.” (I feel nauseous.) Lola Nidora called on Alden. “Alden, nahihilo!” (She feels nauseous!) Alden didn’t have a folding fan in hand. So he tried to fan Divina with his own hands.
Lola Nidora tried to appease Divina at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Wag kang mahilo. Alam mo. Gusto kong maging masaya ka lalo ngayong magpapasko. Kaya lakasan mo ang loob mo.” (Don’t be nauseous. You know. I want to see you happy this Christmas. So be strong.) Donya Tinidora confirmed how nervous Divina is. “Ninenerbyos lang yang bata.” (The kid is just nervous.)
Lola Nidora reminded Divina not to be nervous for one simple thing. “Saka bakit ka naman kakabahan? Tatay mo yun.” (Why will you be nervous? That’s your father.) Donya Tinidora understood though that it will be the first time Divina will see her father. Alden agreed. Divina tried to calm herself as everyone else tried to calm her too.
An SUV car horn was heard from outside. This time, Lola Nidora got more nervous than Divina. She almost collapsed. Almost. Because Alden catched her in time. There were no bodyguards unless the hiphop dancers are THE bodyguards. If Dodong has really hit the bigtime, then this entrance proves it. There was a van with dancers. It was followed by a sports car with blinkers at the bumper. It’s the kind of arrival the Kalye’s Angels are not accustomed to. And Donya Tidora is not around to see these at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode.
The grand entrance made Divina doubtful if this is her father. “Lola, tatay ko po ba talaga yan?” (Granny, is that really my father?) Dodong had a reputation for being a bad boy. But this entrance is the hiphop kind of bad boy. Donya Tinidora is skeptical if this is Dodong’s entourage. “Sabi maraming utang yan.” (It was said that he had a lot of debts.) Alden found the sports car impressive. He also told Donya Tinidora how some neighbors at the ALDUB 22nd Weeksary episode relayed that Dodong has gotten rich. But no one is prepared to see this kind of rich look.
The track then was changed to Drake’s “Hotline Bling (You Used To Call Me On My Cellphone)”. The man from the sports car hopped off with the camera at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode not showing the man’s face. He wore a pair of yellow Nike shoes and denim jeans torn at the knees. He wore what looked like a football jersey for a top with several chain necklaces and a blue jacket. He looked like some character that walked out of a hiphop music video. [Halfway through the entrance, Jose Manalo and Wally Bayola were already suppressing their laughter in the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode upon learning who arrived.]
The entrance alone really got the grannies skeptical. They were expecting someone rich. But not this rich. Or maybe not the thug kind of rich. Lola Nidora then remembered the entrance. “Justin Bieber! Justin Bieber!” It made Alden just as nervous as Divina. The thug-looking man quickly climbed the stairs leaving his dancer/bodyguards at the parking lot.
Divina has become skeptical the moment Lola Nidora yelled “Justin Bieber!” “Tatay mo ba yan?” (Is that my father?) The man would stop in between “dance numbers” to wait on the dancer/bodyguards. He then arrived in front of the De Explorer entourage with his own entourage. Donya Tinidora almost choked in laughter as Lola Nidora just looked on with Divina and Alden. Half a minute later and the man’s face was revealed at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. The KalyeSerye commentary panel then howled in laughter.
Despite the hunch, Donya Tinidora was polite enough to ask who are they. The man didn’t answer her. Instead, he turned his gaze on Divina. Divina felt uneasy. But she tried to verify the man’s identity. “Tatay Dodong?” (Father?) The man refused to be called “Tatay” though by waving his hand. He almost hyperventilated. “Hinihingal pa ko. Sandali.” (I’m still gasping for air. Wait.) He tried to finish his sentence but the music played again at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. This time, the De Explorer entourage danced too.
The man then continued after regaining his breath. “Don’t call me Tatay Dodong. My name is Daddy Dod. D-O-D, bro.” The street name got Lola Nidora skeptical. But she had to ask for Donya Tinidora’s help at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Tinidora, amuyin mo nga kung naka-shot.” (Tinidora, check if he had a few shots.) Lola Nidora had good reason to doubt if this man is drunk. The man who introduced himself as “Daddy Dod” continued. “My daughter. You’re my homie.”
Divina wasn’t prepared for this. Daddy Dod then asked for a hug. “Give me a huggie.” [Good thing he didn’t say “Give your Daddy some sugar, baby girl” or some folks might have taken him literally.] Divina was so shocked. She passed out. Alden was right behind to catch her at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Lola Nidora then called on the Rogelio Rogelio Rogelio for help. Delirious, she kept uttering beneath her breath. “Tatay! Tatay! Tatay!” She was half-conscious as Alden held to her.
Daddy Dod didn’t expect Divina to fall into a seizure. “What happened?” Donya Tinidora tried to explain. “I don’t know. She’s … She’s sleeping right now.” She’s too nervous to even think of the right words to say in English. Lola Nidora had some chewables left to give Divina. Daddy Dod tried to wake up Divina too. “Hey! It’s okay. It’s okay. It’s your Tatay Dodong.” He resorted to the name Divina knew in order to wake her up at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode.
Lola Nidora could still hear Divina mutter “Tatay! Tatay! Tatay!” She had to ask Donya Tinidora what happened. Donya Tinidora herself is distraught. She ended up speaking in broken English. “Nabigla! Nabigla! She bigla! She bigla!” Lola Nidora wasn’t distraught enough to confront the man called Daddy Dod. “Bakit naman kasi? Ikaw ba talaga si Dodong? Tingnan mo. Natakot si Divina!” (Why oh why? Are you really Dodong? Look. You scared Divina!)
The man cut the thug jargon and spoke to the sisters. “Ako talaga si Tatay Dodong. Hindi mo ba ko namumukhaan?” (I am really Dodong her father. Don’t you recognize me?) Donya Tinidora found him familiar once he started speaking in Tagalog. “Si Dodong nga. Bakit one-sided ang hair mo? San ka ba nanggaling?” (This is Dodong. How come your hair is just one-sided now? Where have you been?) Before Dodong could answer, the music played again.
Even Alden had trouble waking up Divina. Everyone had to wait for the commercial break and the Sugod-Broadway to end before going back to the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. The storm raged outside the Broadway Centrum hence no Sugod Bahay errand for the meantime. Once Divina has regained consciousness. Lola Nidora talked to her. “Bakit ka ba nangingisay-ngisay? Meron ka bang ibang nararamdaman? Wala ka namang sakit na ganyan eh.” (Why did you have a seizure? Are you feeling something else?) Divina didn’t say much. “Lola, nagulat lang po talaga ako kanina.” (Granny, I really was just shocked awhile ago.)
Alden assisted Divina. Lola Nidora told Divina to keep her composure. The last time Divina fainted was at the first wedding ceremony she had with Frankie. The main difference though is that Dodong did not have a pockmarked face like Frankie. Because of this seizure. Lola Nidora found Divina passing out as something odd. So she just called Dodong out at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode.
Drake’s “Hotline Bling” hit the floor again, prompting Dodong and his crew to come out. Donya Tinidora found Dodong’s entourage as too flashy. “Pag lalabas, may backup lagi?” (Every time he comes out, the backup comes along?) Dodong’s dance moves are similar to a turntablist’s routine in pubs. Senator Tito immediately got why Divina a.k.a. YayaDUB collapsed again. “Magkaroon ka ba naman ng tatay na ganyan?” (Having a father like that?)
Dodong still addressed Lola Nidora in the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode as “Senyora”. Lola Nidora then turned to Divina. “Divina, akapin mo tatay mo. Dodong, eto ang anak mong si Divina.” (Embrace your father. Dodong, here is your daughter, Divina.) Divina is still skeptical. “Kayo po ba talaga ang tatay ko?” (Are you really my father?) Dodong sounded hurt. “Bakit ba ayaw mong maniwala na ako ang tatay mo?” (Why won’t you believe that I am your father?) It was far from a Star Wars scene father-and-child reunion. But at least Divina gave Dodong a piece of her mind. “Eh mas bagets pa po kayo sa kin kasi eh.” (You act way younger that I do.)
Senator Tito is skeptical too. “May ebidensiya ba?” (Is there any evidence?) Lola Nidora spoke to confirm Dodong’s identity. “Yan ang anak mo, Dodong. Dalagang-dalaga na.” (Here is your daughter, Dodong. She’s all grown up.) Lola Nidora can verify Dodong’s identity since she’s one of the folks who stopped him from taking Divina away from the mansion. And he’s also the biggest reason behind Lola Nidora’s clingy tendencies. Dodong admitted that he almost failed to recognize his daughter too at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Divina then moved forward to hug Dodong. But the doubts remain. “Kayo po talaga tatay ko ha?” (You’re really my father?) Dodong’s thug accent returned. “Of course, man! You’re my homie!”
Donya Tinidora herself was so perplexed. She almost collapsed at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode too. Instead, she ran to the nearest ladder for comfort. Lola Nidora clutched to her chest in shock. “Hotline Bling” played again bringing out Dodong’s minions. Donya Tinidora almost slapped a few of them to send them away. But her palm didn’t hit any cheeks. Divina tried to talk to Dodong to break the ice. “Tagal pong hinintay ko na makasama po kayo.” (I waited so long to be with you.)
Divina then tried to tell Dodong something. “May ipapakilala nga po pala ako sa inyo.” (I would like to introduce you to someone.) When Dodong asked who. Divina called on Alden to move to her right side. “Alden, dito.” (Here.) Alden quipped. “Nasa likod mo na ko, nilipat mo pa ko.” (I’m already behind you, and you moved me.) Divina then formally introduced Alden to Dodong. “Tatay Dodong, si Alden po. Kaibigan ko po.” Dodong just got reunited with his daughter and now she introduced him to her “friend”.
Now it’s Dodong’s turn to be skeptical. “Sigurado kang kaibigan lang?” (Are you sure he’s just a friend?) Divina said yes and she’s sure of it. Red flags were raised once Alden addressed Dodong as “Tay”. Dodong didn’t say much. But they shook hands of Alden hard enough for Alden to wince later at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Dodong blamed it on his blings. [Too many rings.] He then asked Divina again. “Kaibigan lang talaga to ha?” (He’s really just a friend huh?) Divina said yes.
Lola Nidora may have recognized Dodong at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. But his overall look really made it hard for Lola Nidora to verify Dodong’s identity. So she had to ask. “Dodong, nagtataka lang ako. Bakit parang ang daming nabago sa itsura mo? Dati maskulado ka. Mukhang hindi ka na nakakapag-gym. Tapos yung buhok mo, kulot. Anong nangyari diyan?” (I wonder. How come so much has changed in your appearance? You used to be muscular. It seems like you don’t go to the gym anymore. And your hair used to be curly. What happened there?) [Boss Joey was heard in the background laughing at the “maskulado” comment.]
Alden even commented on the price tag still hanging on Dodong’s jacket. Dodong had an explanation for the tag. “Yan ang uso. Para alam nila na bago yung jacket.” (That’s the trend. So that people will know that the jacket is knew.) Lola Nidora noticed even Dodong’s new hairstyle. “May pa-bangs-bangs ka pa.” (You even got bangs.) Dodong confirmed the story that the grannies got in Cebu about him getting sick. “Alam nyo, Senyora, nagkasakit ako. Malubha po yung naging sakit ko. Nangayayat ako. Hindi ko na naibalik yung katawan ko. Pati yung dati kong buhok ay dumirecho dahil sa sakit ko. (I got sick. It was severe. I lost weight. My old physique wasn’t restored. Even my old hairstyle wasn’t restored.)
The more obvious change that Lola Nidora commented on was Dodong’s appearance at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Malaki talaga ang pinagbago mo. Mukhang asensado ka na.” (You really changed a lot. It looks like you have gotten rich.) Dodong then explained his main source of income. “Pagkalipat ko po sa Davao, nagpatayo po ako ng negosyo. Isawan.” (Upon moving to Davao, I built up a business. Grilled chicken intestines.) That made Lola Nidora understand Divina’s favorite food despite growing up in the mansion. “Kaya pala mahilig sa isaw si Divina.” (Now I know why Divina likes grilled chicken intestines.)
Dodong found gold in chicken intestines. Business was good. And as of the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode, he was opened branches abroad. His grilled chicken intestine business now boasts of 150 branches. Dodong’s reason behind the newfound industry was simple. “Ako po’y nagsikap para pagdating ng araw, anak, maipagmalaki mo naman ako.” (I worked hard to that once the day comes, my daughter, you will be proud of me.)
Since Donya Tinidora won’t shut up. Dodong raised another shred of evidence. The Malaysian DUBsmash clip played and he DUBsmashed with Divina. Donya Tinidora and Allan K found the similarities to be impressive. They even did the Pabebe Girls’ DUBsmash. Version 1 and 2. Divina was happy to discover the DUBsmash genes. “Sa inyo ko po pala namana ang pagda-DUBsmash ko.” (I got my DUBsmash skills from you after all.)
Dodong was happy to see Divina believe him at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Divina, ano? Naniniwala ka na?” (What now, Divina? Do you believe me now?) Divina agreed. “Opo. Sapat na po yung mga pruweba.” (Yes. The proof is enough.) Dodong then asked Divina one thing. “Basta patawarin mo ako, Divina, ha? Sa mga pagkukulang ko.” (As long as you forgive me, Divina huh? For all of my shortcomings.) Divina didn’t harbor any ill feelings toward her father after all. “Matagal ko na po kayong napatawad, ‘Tay. Nagpapasalamat din po ako sa inyo kasi kayo po ang nagbigay ng buhay sa akin.” (I have forgiven you way back then. I also thank you since you gave me life.)
Divina was so happy. Her DUBsmash skills went full blast in the vein of Maricel Soriano from “Filipinas” and Nora Aunor from “Himala”. She then teared up. Dodong asked what happened. Alden then tried to interpret Divina’s DUBsmash. “Sabi po niya, masaya raw po siya kasi natupad na po yung Christmas wish niya.” (She said that she’s happy because her Christmas wish finally came true.)
Dodong can’t help but notice the level of closeness Alden had to Divina. “Sandali. Parang kilalang kilala mo itong anak ko.” (Wait. It is as if you know my daughter a little too well.) Alden gave that innocent look to Dodong and to the audience present at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Dodong turned to Divina. “Sabi mo kanina eh kaibigan lang.” (You told me awhile ago that he’s just a friend.) Divina maintained her stance. “Kaibigan nga po. Close lang po kami.” (We ARE friends. We’re just close.)
Dodong pressed for more info. “Anong ibig sabihing ‘close’?” (What do you mean by “close”?) He then directly asked Alden. “Nanliligaw ka ba sa anak ko?” (Are you pursuing my daughter?) Alden just smiled. Lola Nidora pushed Alden closer to Dodong. Alden then stood by Dodong’s right side as Divina stayed on Dodong’s left side. Upon sensing that Alden can’t answer Dodong’s question. Donya Tinidora exclaimed. “Oo! Nanliligaw yan!” (Yes! He’s on the pursuit!) Before Donya Tinidora reveals anything. Alden exclaimed at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Opo! Opo! Opo!” (Yes! Yes! Yes!)
Lola Nidora and Allan K simultaneously scolded Donya Tinidora. Donya Tinidora didn’t like Alden being so slow in Dodong’s presence. “Ang tagal eh.” (He took so long.) Boss Joey prodded Alden. “Sagutin mo, Alden.” (Answer him, Alden.) Alden then came forward with his request.“Magpapaalam na rin po ako sa inyo, Tatay.” (I would like to ask your permission, Father.)
Dodong was aghast at Alden for calling him “Tatay”. Even Divina wasn’t prepared for Alden addressing Dodong as “Tatay”. “Tatay? Tatay mo?” (He’s your father?) Dodong just learned that Alden is pursuing Divina and he called him that. “Tatay na kaagad? Di ba puedeng Tito Tito lang muna?” (Calling me father so soon? Can’t you call me “Tito” for the meantime?) [“Tito” means uncle in Filipino. But it’s also the informal version of “Sir” in addressing a man old enough to be one’s father or uncle as implied by Dodong in the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Once in awhile, Tito is used as a nickname.]
The other “Tito”, Senator Tito [full name: Vicente Sotto III; nicknamed as “Tito”] reacted. “Pamangkin ka ba?” (Are you his nephew?) Dodong was quick enough to ask Alden another question. “Isa pang tanong. Mahal mo ba ang anak ko?” (Another question. Do you love my daughter?)
Alden took long to answer again at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Dodong decided to cut him off at this point in the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Wag mo sa kin sabihin. Sabihin mo dito sa anak ko. Hindi naman ako ang nililigawan mo eh.” (Don’t tell me. Tell my daughter. I am not the one you’re pursuing.) He then pulled Alden to be with Divina.
Alden looked straight to Divina’s eyes. “Divina Ursula Bocbocoba Smash. YayaDUB. M-A-H-A-L-K-I-T-A.” Dodong didn’t like the way the declaration was done at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Divina didn’t like Alden resorting to codes either. Dodong then pushed Alden to fix his statement. “Ano ibig sabihin nun?” (What does it mean?) Alden then answered. “I love you.” The ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode was the first episode where Alden told Divina “I love you” instead of “ALDUB You”.
Divina found it different to hear “I love you” instead of “ALDUB You”. “Ngayon ko lang yan narinig sa yo.” (That’s the first time I heard that from you.) Dodong got more that what he expected from Alden.“Ano to? Talagang sa harap-harapan ha?” (Really huh? Right to my face huh?) Alden apologized to Dodong. “Sorry po.” Divina apologized to Dodong too. “Sorry po, ‘tay.” (Sorry, Father.) Allan K tried to defend Alden and Divina. “Inutusan nyo eh.” (But you commanded them.)
Donya Tinidora then busted them. “Lagi kaming ginaganyan ng dalawa na yan. Naku.” (They always do it in front of us.) Senator Tito was impressed with Alden’s courage. “Binitawan sa harapan.” (Uttered upfront.) Dodong then turned to Divina. “Ikaw, tinatanggap mo ba-” Donya Tinidora quickly cut Dodong off upon realizing the pattern of questioning. “HINDI PA!!!!!!! STOP IT!!!!!!! HINDI PA IKAKASAL!!!!!” Dodong may be no minister authorized to officiate a marriage. But Lola Nidora is more than thankful for Donya Tinidora’s alertness at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Then she chastised Dodong.
It snapped Dodong back to reality. No wonder Lola Nidora suspected if Dodong was sober at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Dodong then pulled Divina aside for a little reminder. “Anak, wag mo muna sasagutin yan ha? Wag maging mapusok ha? Katulad ng nangyari sa ‘min ng nanay mo. Hindi pa kami handa noon. Kaya kami pinaghiwalay noon ni Senyora Nidora. Dahil away kami nang away. Kaya naging basagulero ako.” (Child, don’t say ‘Yes’ to him for now huh? Don’t let the hormones prevail okay? Just like what happened to us of your mother. We were not ready then yet. It caused Senyora Nidora to break us up. Because we kept on quarreling. So I ended up becoming vagabond.)
Donya Tinidora gave Lola Nidora the stink eye upon confirming the story straight from Dodong himself at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Divina assured Dodong that history will not repeat itself. “Naku, wag po kayong magalala, ‘tay. Maghihintay pa po siya ng matagal na panahon bago ko po ibigay ang matamis kong ‘Oo’.” (Don’t worry, father. He would have to wait a long time before I give him my sweet “Yes”.) Alden was eavedsropping and ended up agreeing with Divina. “Totoo po yan.” (It’s true.)
Donya Tinidora scolded Alden. “Wag kang makinig. Naguusap yung mag-ama.” (Don’t eavesdrop. Father and daughter are having an intimate conversation.) Dodong snapped quickly at Alden. “Ikaw ba kinakausap?” (Am I talking to you?) He still has that temper after all these years. Even Divina scolded him. “Wag ka nga. Dun ka.” (Shut up. Stay there.) Donya Tinidora herself got irritated at Alden’s behavior in the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Sabat ka nang sabat eh.” (You were interrupting them.)
Dodong reiterated the need to talk to Divina. “Respeto naman oh! Tatay ako oh!” (Show some damn respect! I am the father!) Alden’s attempt at improv at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode through adlib is commendable though. “Naririnig ko po kasi naka-mic kayo.” (I can hear you since you got microphones.) Dodong emphasized his name by smashing his fist on the KalyeSerye commentary panel’s table. Almost scaring Allan K to reply. “Respeto naman oh. Host ako dito.” (Show some damn respect. I’m a host here.)
Dodong had to ask the obvious as early as now in his renewed bond with Divina. “Teka nga. Eh bakit kanina, parang dikit na dikit kayo?” (Wait a minute. How come awhile ago, you seem inseparable?) Divina staved off any apprehensions Dodong had. “Tatay, wala lang po yun. Close lang po kasi kami. Wala pong ibig sabihin yun.” (Father, it’s nothing. We’re very close. It doesn’t mean anything.) Alden was shown in the background trying to silence the audience present at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode.
Dodong then reiterated his curiosity by explaining himself.“Nililinaw ko lang. Mabuti na yung malinaw.” (I just want to be clear. Clarity is good.) Dodong then changed the topic to tell the truth to Divina. “Anak, may ipagtatapat nga pala ako sana sa yo.” (Child, I need to tell you something.) Before he could continue, he got teary-eyed. It worried Divina. Donya Tinidora got a little amused with Dodong in this part of the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Ganito pala umiyak ang hiphop.” (So this is how hiphop men cry.)
Dodong continued. “Divina, nakapag-asawa na rin ako. May stepmother ka na. Hindi ko lang siya nakasama ngayon kasi nagaasikaso ng ating mga negosyo.” (I have remarried. You now have a stepmother. I am just not with her now as she is preoccupied with our businesses.) Divina wasn’t prepared to have a stepmother.. He then reached to his pocket to show his wedding picture to Divina and to the rest of the viewers of the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode.
Divina was disappointed upon seeing her stepmother’s picture. “Tay naman. Ano ba naman …?” (Father please. What the …?) Divina’s voice trailed off at the sight of her stepmother at Dodong’s wedding photo. “Tay! Ang dami-daming tao, Tay!” (Father! Of all the people, Father!) Allan K had to get close to Dodong at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. Senator Tito stood up to stop Allan K from pestering Dodong. “Lumayas ka diyan!” (Get out of there!) Boss Joey stood up too. But he talked to Divina. “Kaya humihingi ng kapatawaran.” (This is why he’s asking for forgiveness.)
Donya Tinidora then remembered Isadora’s story. Could Dodong be back to his fortune-hunting ways? Donya Tinidora then gave her thoughts in Dodong’s second marriage. “Alam mo, Dodong. Ginamit mo lang gandang lalaki mo. Mayaman siguro yan.” (You just used your charm. Maybe she’s rich.) Senator Tito agreed with Donya Tinidora. “Malamang. Ano? Shinatgun ka niyan?” (That’s possible. What? She used a shotgun on you?)
Donya Tinidora believed there is no way in hell that the woman can ever get a good man to marry. “Kasi kung normal yan, di mo naman magugustuhan yan eh.” (Because if he’s normal, he will never like that woman.) Allan K muttered “Bastos!” under his breath at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode.
Donya Tinidora was enjoying the sarcasm at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “Tingnan mo nga. Ang sagwa ko na. Mas masagwa pa yan ha?” (I mean look at that. I already look awful. And she’s worse, right?) Divina’s question scared Donya Tinidora further. “Tay, may anak po ba kayo sa kanya?” (Father, do you have a child with her?) Donya Tinidora could only imagine how the kid could look like. Dodong said there was none. “Hindi na siguro siya magkakaanak dahil 110 years old na siya.” (I don’t think she’d ever have children because she’s already 110 years old.)
Since Dodong has remarried and found new fortune. Lola Nidora had to ask what else is he here for. “Dodong, bago ang lahat, bukod diyan sa asawa mo, ano ba talaga ang sadya mo?” (Before anything else apart from your wife, what are you really here for?) Dodong’s motive wasn’t so hard to explain. “Eh kasi, Senyora, bilang ama, gusto kong makita ang aking anak. At saka may nakapagbalita sa akin. Napaalis daw kayo sa mansion.” (Well, Senyora, as a father, I want to see my child. And somebody told me. You were evicted from the mansion.) The mere mention of the mansion got Lola Nidora and Donya Tinidora tearing up at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode.
Dodong continued. “Gusto ko sanang makatulong.” (I would like to help.) Lola Nidora’s pride and Donya Tinidora’s advice prevailed. “Wag na, Teodoro. Kaya namin ang buhay namin” (No need, Teodoro. We can handle our lives.) Albeit confused, Donya Tinidora decided to keep their pride in case Dodong would jack up the help offered. Lola Nidora called it pride. Donya Tinidora wept on the side thinking of the pride that they had to put up at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode.
Dodong’s priority is still his daughter. So he kept the offer for Divina’s sake. “Kung ayaw nyo pong tanggapin ang tulong ko, kahit kay Divina na lang ang iaalay kong tulong.” (If you don’t want to accept my help, I will still offer help for Divina’s sake.) Lola Nidora accepted knowing that Divina has resumed her studies. It became evident that unlike Divina. Lola Nidora has not moved on from the past. Maybe because it’s easier for Divina now to move on at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode with Alden around.
An SUV horn was heard at the Broadway Centrum. It was Donya Babah. Lola Nidora’s day is officially ruined at the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. After Cindy’s revelations at the ALDUB Pagbangon episode. Lola Nidora knew how merciless Donya Babah can get. It made Alden feel awkward again. And since Donya Babah reveled at the sight of the Zobeyala sisters in dire straits, she formally announced the House of De Explorer to be up for sale.
Donya Babah immediately found Dodong attractive. Dodong is willing to buy the mansion. Donya Babah is willing to sell the mansion to Dodong at first if he is willing to date her. Dodong didn’t bite the bullet though. As of the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode, the mansion’s market value has been appraised to Php200 million. And Donya Babah has found a buyer who called her on the phone. Dodong matched the caller’s offer at Php400 million. Donya Babah’s contact then tripled the offer at Php600 million. With this offer, Donya Babah left.
Dodong felt bad at not buying the house. Apart from Divina, the House of De Explorer is the only memory left for Dodong of Ursula. Dodong seemed loaded with cash. But Donya Babah is loaded with rich friends as she bragged on the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. It was then revealed that Dodong was leaving too. “Sorry, Divina. Sayang. Kaya ko pa naman bilhin ang mansion para sa inyo. Di bale. Babawi ako sa yo. Aalis ako nang matagal na matagal. Hindi na ko babalik.” (Too bad. I can buy that mansion for you. Never mind. I will make it up to you. I will be leaving for a very long time never to return.) Donya Tinidora interpreted it as an attempt to not revive the character.
Dodong’s flight is scheduled the night of the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode. “I have a flight to New York for my business trip. Ang gusto ko lang sana magkita tayo bago mag-Pasko. Anak, Merry Christmas.” (I just want to see you before Christmas.) With this he DUBsmashed Ariel Rivera’s “Sana Ngayong Pasko” and Martin Nievera’s “Christmas Won’t Be The Same Without You”. Divina replied by DUBsmashing Aiza Seguerra’s cover of “Pasko Na Sinta Ko”. Dodong then asked Divina to “Forgive me. But don’t forget me.”
Dodong then turned to Alden. Alden then called him “Tatay” again. Dodong corrected him and left instructions. “Alagaan mo mabuti anak ko ha?” (You take care of my daughter, okay?) Alden said yes. And since Dodong’s appearance in the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode might his only appearance in the KalyeSerye. Questions followed in almost rapid succession. The only question where Alden said no is the book launching part.“Ikaw ba? Kaya mong buhayin ang anak ko? Masipag ka ba, Alden? Marami ka bang raket? Marami ka bang mga ribbon-cutting? Mga book launching? PAGCOR?” After Divina invited them all for a group hug, the truck horn honked off. Signaling the end of the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode.
With Lola Nidora and Donya Tinidora turning down Dodong’s offer for help, how long can the family pride keep them from another financial disaster? And with the mansion’s auction not turning out good for Dodong, how else can the De Explorer mansion be reclaimed? Tune in to Eat Bulaga. Monday to Saturday at noontime. Like Eat Bulaga’s official Facebook page to catch the ALDUB Ang Pagtatagpo episode replay.
The House of De Explorer is still far from getting reclaimed. Donya Babah’s other client outdid Dodong’s offers. Who else can be just as interested in getting the House of De Explorer? More episode recaps to come here. All that is left for you to do is follow us on our social media accounts. Like our official Facebook page, The Philippines Web. And follow us on Twitter @pinasamazing. We’d be expecting you.
