Balikbayan%20Magazine%20V3N4

balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

In this Issue 30 8 32 10 36 12 38 14 40 41 18 42 20 Secretary Ramon Jimenez Makes Tourism ‘More Fun in the Philippines’ How an advertising guru is giving Philippine tourism a facelift.

It’s More Fun in the Philippines: The Inside Story from David Guerrero BBDO Guerrero’s Creative Chief talks about the ideation process behind the winning campaign.

DOT Internet Memes Describe Why It’s More Fun in the Philippines Balikbayan Magazine gives you 5 reasons why it’s more fun in the Philippines.

Why It’s More Fun in the Philippines for a Fil-Am A young Filipino-American recounts her travels to her homeland.

Plantation Bay: A World Of Its Own Discover the wonders of Plantation Bay Resort in Cebu.

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Tony Meloto: With Filipino Pride Comes Filipino Dignity Gawad Kalinga’s founder talks about the Filipino’s sense of self-empowerment and ‘voluntourism’.

Gawad Kalinga’s Enchanted Farm: Not Your Usual Fairy Tale Find out why this self-sustaining paradise was built on hopes and dreams.

An Eastern Enchantment A photo essay about Thunderbird Resort in Binangonan, Rizal.

Eats Exciting in Davao Discover the flavors of The Epic Soo Pinoy (Kulinarya) Food Trip.

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Off the Eaten Path Tickle your tastebuds with Manila’s extraordinary street food.

The Lourd of the Word Learn from and be inspired by the master of the written and spoken word, Lourd de Veyra.

Tribute: The Divine Comedian Balikbayan Magazine pays tribute to King of Comedy, Dolphy.

Ruben Nepales : The First Filipino to be Elected as Chairman of HFPA A profile on the successful career of Ruben Nepales in Hollywood.

Apl.de.ap Takes You To The Philippines: A Celebration of Global Filipino Music The Pinoy Black Eyed Peas member brings Filipino talent to the spotlight at the Hollywood Bowl.

A Showcase of Filipino Heritage at the Hollywood Bowl with Black Eyed Peas’ Apl.de.ap A review of Apl.de.ap’s Filipino musical showcase at the Hollywood Bowl.

How These Filipinos Made Broadway Their Home A closer look at Filipino performers on Broadway.

Balikbayan Magazine Goes to London A photo essay on the 2012 Barrio Fiesta in London.

My Second Home: Why I Hold The Philippines Close To My Heart An American’s account of his journey to the Philippines.

balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

Publisher & CEO Roger Lagmay Oriel President & Co-Publisher Cora M. Oriel Vice President for Business Development Raphael John C. Oriel Vice President for Advertising Noel Godinez Vice President for Sales Sharon Ann Bathan-San Pedro Vice President for Marketing and Special Events, Philippines Vince Samson

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Editor-in-Chief Emeritus Lito Ocampo Cruz

Dita Sandico-Ong: Fashion with a Conscience A closer look at the essence of fashion from wrap artist Dita Sandico-Ong.

Managing Editor Katherine Castillo Eustaquio Associate Editors Jane Francis S. Quinabo, Stephen Norries A. Padilla Events Editor Kristine Bernadeth T. Manaog

A Stranger In My Own Country A balikbayan’s perspective, as she revisits her homeland.

Contributing Editors Ruben Nepales, Malou Liwanag-Bledsoe, Prosy dela Cruz, Momar G. Visaya Cynthia De Castro, Dennis Noel A. Balangue, Libay Linsangan Cantor

Pinoy Homecoming. More Fun in the Philippines A feature on the 7th Ambassadors Consuls General and Tourism Directors Tour.

Contributing Photographers Dennis Noel A. Balangue, Andy Tecson, Nicole Marie Alvaro, John Andrew Manzo, Troi SantosMapet Santos, Shaira Luna, Jeffrey Bulanadi, Hydee AbrahanBley Villones, Gerry San Miguel, Tin Jacinto

The Knight & Shining E-Chariot All aboard the electric chariots. Touring Intramuros will never be the same again.

Contributing Writers Christina M. Oriel, Vince Samson, Rocelle Aragon Chris M. Bledsoe, Oliver Bayani

Graphic Designers Resurreccion San Miguel, John Andrew Manzo Multimedia Developers Nicole Marie Alvaro, Desiderata M. Pasion Circulation Manager Arthur Sibulangcao Advertising Executives Katherine D. Carreon, Janina Lazaro, Eliza Domingo Accountants Ria Fabro, Gemma Fabro, Joseph Mark Camiring

PHOTO CREDITS (COVER): El Nido, Palawan. Photo courtesy of El Nido Resorts Tarsier (world’s smallest primate), Bohol. Photo courtesy of George Tapan for DOT El Nido, Palawan. Photo courtesy of El Nido Resorts Tubbataha Reef, Palawan. Photo courtesy of Stephen P. David Igorot ladies of Benguet. Photo courtesy of Henson Wongaiham Banana Boat Ride in Nasugbu, Batangas. Photo courtesy of Darwin Dumaraos Masskara Festival, Bacolod City. Photo courtesy of Department of Tourism Chocolate Hills, Bohol. Photo courtesy of George Tapan for DOT Puerto Princesa Underground River, Palawan. Photo courtesy of La Venta 2010 Pahiyas Festival, Quezon. Photo courtesy of Sidney Snoeck Banaue Rice Terraces. Photo courtesy of George Tapan for DOT Dimakya Island, Palawan. Photo courtesy of Gutsy Tuason Big Lagoon, Palawan. Photo courtesy of El Nido Resorts Lechon. Photo courtesy of Department of Tourism Hanging out. Photo courtesy of The Farm at San Benito

ERRATUM In the article, “The Unbearable Lightness of Being Carlos Celdran “ written by Nickee de Leon-Huld and published in the June-July 2012 issue of Balikbayan Magazine, the last two paragraphs were inadvertently omitted. Balikbayan Magazine deeply regrets this error and apologizes for any inconvenience that this unintended mistake has caused Mr. Carlos Celdran. For the full story, visit www.balikbayanmagazine.com.

Editor-at-Large Nickee de Leon-Huld

balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

Admin Assistant Stephanie Kulchar

BALIKBAYAN MAGAZINE is published by Asian Journal Publications, Inc. 2/F Units D&E Fort Palm Spring Condominium, 30th Street corner, 1st Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig 1200 Philippines Tel. (+632) 856-4921 USA Advertising Offices Los Angeles: 1150 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90017-1904. • Tel. (213) 250–9797 San Francisco: 841 San Bruno Avenue West, Ste. 12-14 San Bruno, CA 94066 • Tel. (650) 583–6818 New York: 5 Penn Plaza, Ste. 1932, New York, NY 10001 • Tel. (212) 655–5426 New Jersey: 2500 Plaza Five, Harborside Financial Center, Jersey City, NJ 07311 • Tel. (201) 484–7249 Las Vegas: 3700 W. Desert Inn Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89102 • Tel. (702) 792–6678 WEBSITE www.balikbayanmagazine.com Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/balikbayanmagazine Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/balikbayanmag For subscriptions, email subscriptions@asianjournalinc.com

Keeping a Journal

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

BY ROGER LAGMAY ORIEL, Publisher & CEO The Asian Journal Publications, Inc.

It’s More Fun in the Philippines for a Balikbayan

Photo shows from left to right Hernan Narvadez, Marketing & Promotions, DOT - Tourism Promotions Board; Vince Samson, Vice President Marketing, Balikbayan Magazine; Domingo Ramon C. Enerio III , Assistant Secretary, Tourism Planning and Promotions as well as Officer-incharge, Tourism Promotions Board, DOT; Roger Lagmay Oriel, CEO, Asian Journal Publications; Raphael John Oriel, Vice President For Business Development, Balikbayan Magazine; Susan J. Del Mundo, Marketing & Promotions, DOT - Tourism Promotions Board.

W

hen the Department of Tourism’s “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” campaign made its debut earlier this year, it didn’t take long for the slogan to reach all forms of both traditional and new media, not just in the Philippines, but around the

world as well.

Internet memes started going viral on various social media sites.

And as the Philippines digitally signed into the rest of the online world, the new tourism campaign has proven to be a successful invitation. Showcasing the country’s unique treasures, second and third generations of Filipino-Americans became more curious about their heritage. Hopefully, this curiosity will lead them into wanting to discover for themselves what the Philippines has to offer.

Months later, as we continue to think of more innovative ways to intensify the campaign through traditional and new media, we also discover how these new technologies make our mission “more fun” indeed.

Tourism is every person’s business. In recognition of Asian Journal Publications, Inc.’s wide influence in the Filipino-American market, the Department of Tourism has partnered with us to promote another one of its projects, the Pinoy Homecoming Program—a five-year campaign that aims to increase visitor arrivals from Filipinos around the world.

As more and more balikbayans and tourists from around the world visit the tropical paradise that is the Philippines, they realize that the fun never stops here—from the street food, to charity work, to travel destinations and fashion.

Discovering the walled city of Intramuros aboard electric chariots is truly a unique experience. Sampling mouthwatering, authentic Pinoy street food and gourmet Davaoeño dishes will keep you coming back for more. Filipino artists Dita Sandico-Ong and Lourd de Veyra epitomize true Pinoy talent in their own respective forms of artistic expression. And of course, travel destinations around the Philippines like Gawad Kalinga’s Enchanted Farm and the Plantation Bay Resort in Cebu continue to be living testaments to the beauty of the Philippines and its people.

But the ‘fun’ experience is not limited to the Philippines alone. It has expanded in every town, city and country where Filipinos abound, just like in Broadway where many Filipino-American artists are enjoying the spotlight and the “Barrio Fiesta sa London 2012”—held from June 30 to July 1, 2012 at Lampton Park, Hounslow, Middlesex, United Kingdom.

In this issue, Balikbayan Magazine shares with you why it’s more fun in the Philippines 365 days a year. From the best eats to the best travel treats, coming home to the Philippines will always be a gratifying experience for all age groups to enjoy. u balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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FEATURE

Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr. Makes Tourism

More Fun in the

Philippines

By Cynthia De Castro

W

hen one of the country’s top advertising gurus, Ramon Reyes Jimenez, Jr., became the Philippines’ Honorable Secretary of Tourism in September 2011, a lot of people were curious to see what he will bring to the table.

“This is the most beautiful country in the world. Or you can say we are one of the top 10 most beautiful countries in the world.

There is no reason we won’t succeed,” Jimenez told the media after his appointment as DOT Secretary by President Benigno Aquino III. Known for his award-winning advertising campaigns, Mon J (as he is more popularly known in the ad world) immediately won the hearts and minds of the press, when he said that the Philippines “is an obviously beautiful product” that it should be “as easy to sell as ‘Chickenjoy,’” (referring to his former client, Jollibee’s fried chicken, which he helped promote to become their best-selling product).

Jimenez was a man on a mission—to be able to come up with the best campaign to promote the country as a premier destination.

He wanted to make tourism “the people’s business.”

“The best marketing communications campaigns anywhere in the world are rally hinged on the simplicity of a proposition,” he said.

Thus, it came as no surprise that the new campaign that Secretary Jimenez launched in January this year was met with much enthusiasm and praise.

An Instant Hit Created by Chairman and Chief Creative Officer David Guerrero of the most awarded advertising firm, BBDO Guerrero, the new slogan, “It’s More Fun in the Philippines,” became an instant hit.

balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

After showing different images of why it’s more fun in the Philippines, the ad challenged its audience: “What will you come up with?”

Filipino people power then went into motion, displaying the inherent wit, creativity and humor of Pinoys. Hundreds of Facebook and Twitter users took the challenge and came up with their own internet memes, showcasing why “it’s more fun in the Philippines.”

One showed a photograph of men carrying a nipa hut down the road with the headline: “Change of address. It’s more fun in the Philippines. “Another one shows an overloaded rural jeepney with passengers on the roof and hanging on to the sides, with the headline: “Carpool. It’s more fun in the Philippines.”

“In a very real sense it’s a people power campaign because you can’t imagine how spontaneous this has all been. There’s this latent love of country that we have been able to unleash,” Jimenez said.

Since the launch of the new campaign, the DOT has been working double time to make sure that the new campaign is successful. Apparently it is, according to the latest statistics provided by the Philippine Department of Tourism.

Visitor arrivals to the Philippines hit an all-time high of 1,148,072 during the first three months of the year (January-March 2012), posting an increase of 16.03% versus last year’s arrivals of 989,501 for the same period.

“During this period, visitors to the Philippines increased by 16 percent to hit almost 1.15 million. From this record, we have now achieved 25 percent of our international visitor target of 4.6 million for this year,” Jimenez said.

“The world is now starting to see that ‘It’s More Fun in the Philippines’ is not just a bunch of words on a streamer. It is a competitive argument for choosing the Philippines as one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Philippine tourism is poised to

FEATURE surge forward as we receive a steady increase of tourist arrivals, as Changing the future Since the DOT Campaign “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” seen in the first quarter of this year,” beamed Jimenez. was launched, it has been drawing attention around the world and The first quarter numbers are already at 25 percent of their generating more awareness for the Philippines, as a fun tourist projected goal of 4.6 million visitors this year. destination.

Korea, the United States, Japan, China and Taiwan are the most Twenty-five double-decker buses and fifty iconic black cabs frequent visitors, according to DOT. The first quarter alone, more sporting a uniform design of the slogan, logo and different faces than 265,000 Koreans visited the country—a 16 percent increase of the Philippines are now spotted around the bustling streets of of number of Koreans visitors compared to the same period last London. year.

The subway stations also display images of the world-famous Visitors from the US totaled 179,561 this year, a six percent increase from the first quarter of last year.

Ifugao Rice Terraces and the Puerto Princesa Underground River, Japanese visitors totaled 104,500, about a 9 percent increase both proclaimed as World Heritage Sites. The April issue of In from the same period last year. Chinese and Taiwanese visitors Viaggio of Italy detailed the recent trip of Hotelplan’s 35 agents to had the most significant increase. There were about 96,400 visitors various places in the Philippines. The underwater gems of Coron from China a 77 percent increase. Meanwhile, there were 54,300 and Anilao were also captured in two articles entitled “Los Pecios de visitors from Taiwan, an increase of 37 percent from the same Coron” and “Bienvenidos a Nudi City,” which appeared on Inmersion period last year.

Magazine, one of Spain’s top Secretary Jimenez said that “Our strategy is simple: While other countries invite you to diving publications. Meanwhile, they “feel very encouraged” another article on Coron by that the industry has exceeded observe, Filipinos can promise a more heartfelt and interesting Ultima Frontera, “Lagos de Coron,” expectations. also appeared in Viajes de Buceo “With the overwhelming experience. Wherever you go, whatever you do in the country, Magazine. response to our new brand While it is great that the country campaign, we know that we it’s the Filipinos that will complete your vacation and will is being promoted heavily in have broken ground on crowd many parts of the world, many are sourcing. The people’s campaign make your holiday unforgettable,” apprehensive that the Philippines will help bring more numbers,” still needs a lot of improvement, said Jimenez, who attributed the success of the campaign to it being before it can host millions of tourists. “simple,” “easy to remember” and being “closest to the truth.”

In relation to this, Secretary Jimenez has assured the public “It’s more fun in the Philippines” has been launched on CNN that the government is taking the necessary steps to upgrade the and aired in Asia, Europe and the United States. It also debuted at country’s airports and facilities, in order to entice tourists to visit the International Travel Bourse in Berlin, which was attended by the Philippines. thousands of travel buyers.

Along with the upgrades, the DOT is also coordinating with other government agencies to improve the country’s tourism From promoting products, to promoting industry. New policies will also be implemented, such as easing the country of visa requirements for foreign visitors, to add to the attraction of Born on July 14, 1955, Mon Jimenez studied at the University of visiting the Philippines. Affordable packages for foreign travelers the Philippines from elementary up to his college years. He earned are also being put in place. a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, major in Visual Communication The DOT is also developing a national initiative under the line from the UP College of Fine Arts in Diliman. ‘#1FORFUN’ to rally the nation.

Jimenez began his illustrious career in advertising over three “The national line is a goal, a constant reminder to ourselves why decades ago in Saatchi & Saatchi’s creative department. From we can tell travelers it’s more fun here than anywhere else,” says the Secretary, “It needs everyone’s support for it to stay true—we 1988 to 1989, he became vice president and executive creative need to make sure people’s experiences in our country are positive, director of Ace Saatchi & Saatchi. enjoyable, and most of all, fun.”

In the late 1990s, he formed a start-up boutique agency (called “Our strategy is simple: While other countries invite you to Jimenez & Partners) with his wife, Abby Jimenez. observe, Filipinos can promise a more heartfelt and interesting After a merger with Basic Advertising and under Mon’s experience.

Wherever you go, whatever you do in the country, it’s leadership as joint CEO (working closely with wife Abby) from the Filipinos that will complete your vacation and will make your 1989 to 2008, Jimenez Basic Advertising became the largest holiday unforgettable,” Jimenez said. creative advertising agency in the country.

Jimenez stresses that the biggest selling point of the country Philippine brands such as Jollibee, Selecta Ice Cream, Safeguard will have to be the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people, Soap, San Miguel Beer, Cebu Pacific and Ivory Soap, became already known around the world to be one of the happiest and household names because of Jimenez’s excellent body of work. In warmest people on earth.

2011, the agency came to be known as Publicis Jimenez Basic.

Working with President Aquino (who has been dubbed as the Jimenez is also a senior consultant and joint CEO of WOO most tourism-oriented President of the Philippines), Secretary (Winning Over Obstacles) Consultants.

Jimenez has the support of more than a hundred million Filipinos He is also a recipient of the Gawad Alagad ng Sining Award, around the world, in promoting the beauty of the Philippines and bestowed by the University of the Philippines. Along with his wife her people.

Abby, Jimenez received the Lifetime Achievement Award from “I can’t think of anything more worthwhile,” Secretary Mon the Creative Guild of the Philippines and the Pilak Award for the Jimenez says of his job. u Mavericks of Marketing in the Philippines from Adboard. balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

FEATURE

Its More Fun in the

Philippines The Inside Story from David Guerrero

By Rocelle Aragon

The man behind the fun: David Guerrero

M

ost Filipinos living overseas will remember the first ones: three images that we saw online, possibly from a Pinoy news site but more likely from a friend’s Facebook post.

We remember our delight at the Pinoy humor, the tourism cliches presented with a twist, the images that show the country as we know it can be. After decades of so-so tourism campaigns, we remember being deeply glad that one finally got it right.

“It’s More Fun in The Philippines” has the simplicity and repeatability of the best advertising lines. Yet, it was anything but simple to generate.

The campaign came out of one of the highest-stakes pitches in recent Philippine ad history: seven top agencies, with Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr. as the client—a former advertising man with high creative standards of his own. It had to woo an international audience, yet win over Pinoys themselves, who were essential ambassadors but are also the most acid critics.

The pitch was not for the money; government accounts are notoriously high-maintenance. It was for the prestige of handling an account that every Pinoy in the world has an opinion on, with the ultimate product: the country itself.

By now, much has been written about the campaign and its social media success on a shoestring. On CNN, on London buses and in

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New York’s Times Square, the campaign is going out into the world. Sec. Jimenez Jr. credits the campaign for a 16 percent rise in foreign tourist arrivals for the first quarter. Of more than one million tourists that arrived, over 15 percent of that number came from the US, making it the second-biggest market after Korea.

Run on a shoestring, witty and relying on Pinoys’ global network, “It’s More Fun in The Philippines” is a totally Pinoy campaign. So it’s nice that it started in totally Pinoy fashion: at the beach.

Balikbayan Magazine hears from David Guerrero, whose team at ad agency BBDO Guerrero won the pitch.

Balikbayan Magazine (BM): We’ve read that this campaign was born during a dive trip. Anything else the world doesn’t know yet about the creation of “It’s More Fun in the Philippines?”

David Guerrero (DG): Well, the dive resort was the Calypso Resort in Boracay Island. So aside from being the world’s number one tropical island destination as voted on by Travel and Leisure and Tripadvisor it could well be the world’s number one island to have ideas. Clearly being out of the office has its benefits—and being at a place like Boracay can only enhance them more. As far as the creation of the line itself, the only thing to add is that I immediately wrote about four pages of examples of what could be more fun in the Philppines. So it was great to see other people feeling equally inspired when we launched the campaign.

FEATURE BM: A less familiar but equally interesting element is the woven-mat logo. Can you tell us a bit about this?

DG: The weave is based on the native ‘banig.’ It represents the fact that [the country] weaves various influences and cultures into one wonderfully colorful whole. The colors are based on those traditionally used around the country. We also wanted to refer to the technological sophistication of the country that is evidenced in our advanced telecom and IT industry, so we emphasized the visual coincidence of the weave and the color pixels.

In the final moving rendition, we will be emphasizing the link still further.

BM: When the public likes a campaign, they can take it to unexpected places. What has been the most surprising and unexpected application/ effect of the campaign for you? Do we know what the reaction has been from non-Filipinos?

DG: It’s been a phenomenal reaction from all corners of the globe. I’ve even had clients from Europe who were made aware of the campaign. We’ve also had some truly surprising contributions from just about everywhere. I nearly always meet someone who will give me a new idea that they have

The creative team behind the campaign from BBDO Guerrero

on their phone. It’s also been nice to see many local businesses here using the theme in their advertising. Perhaps the oddest one was one I saw in my neighborhood, which said that Bonsai Planting was more fun in the Philippines. And I’m pretty sure it is.

BM: Now that everyone is familiar with the campaign, what’s next—or where? Any plans for use of social networking sites like Tumblr or Pinterest by the campaign (as opposed to usergenerated)?

DG: Plans are underway for a major rollout in the third and fourth quarters of the year, both on TV and digital media. We are also going to look for surprising tactical and local opportunities wherever possible.

BM: And finally, what’s your favorite thing to do that’s more fun in the Philippines?

DG: Well it would have to be diving, wouldn’t it? But working in advertising comes a pretty close second. u

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7,107 REASON WHY IT’S MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES

DOT Internet Memes Describe

, Why Its More Fun in the

Philippines P

LOGO

By Katherine Castillo Eustaquio and Jane Francis S. Quinabo

ristine white beaches. Filipino warmth and hospitality. Gorgeous sunsets and awesome parties. Majestic mountain ranges and colorful festivities. Combine culture and scenery, and you’ll realize why the Philippines is the place to be. But aside from our islands, there are at least another 7,107 more reasons why it’s more fun in the Philippines. Balikbayan Magazine tells you why, through DOT’s most popular “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” Internet memes.

STREET FASHION The Philippines has a festival for just about everything. The most popular ones are the AtiAtihan, Sinulog, Moriones and Dinagyang festivals. The country also holds festivals for famous local eats like suman sa latik, coconut, strawberries and even pinakbet, a famous Ilocano delicacy. And Filipinos do not just celebrate these festivals with food and drinks. They celebrate them with flair, through colorful street parades where participants don costumes made out of whatever raw material is most available.

When you come to the Philippines, make sure you witness an honest-to-goodness local festival.

It will give you an inside glimpse of how truly welcoming Filipinos can be.

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TOUR GUIDES They say that the essence of the Philippines is in the province, more particularly, in its people.

This statement couldn’t be truer in this DOT meme, featuring the Igorot ladies of Benguet.

The photo was taken way back in 2009 (three years before the DOT campaign went global)

by Henson Wongaiham, during a trip to the Banaue Rice Terraces. Wherever you go in the Philippines, you’ll always find a local who will happily (and very proudly) show you the beauty of his province. This is so much true in all of Balikbayan Magazine’s coverage. This peculiar local pride, Filipino hospitality and sincerity make tours in the Philippines a truly personal and unforgettable one.

7,107 REASON WHY IT’S MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES

MY HUMPS The Chocolate Hills, spanning a total area of 50 square kilometers with an estimated number of 1,776 individual land mounds, is a very unusual geological land formation that can be found in the province of Bohol. During the wet season, the hills appear in different shades of green, while during the dry season, they appear chocolate brown, earning the name Chocolate Hills. Four legends explain the origin of the hills—the most popular is about an extremely powerful giant named Arogo, who fell in love with a mere mortal named Aloya. The latter died and her death caused tremendous pain and misery to the youthful giant that he couldn’t stop crying. When his tears dried up, the hills were formed.

BANANAS While the Philippines remains famous for world-class mango exports, there is one other fruit we’re famous for—bananas. However, the water activity named after it (the banana boat) is more popular than the fruit itself. Perhaps it’s Boracay’s (arguably the most popular white beach in the country) allure that made this water activity so famous. This banana-shaped inflatable vessel can carry up to nine passengers per trip. For only PHP150 (USD 3.53) per head, there is no better way to amp up the fun meter than taking a banana boat ride with family and friends.

THE UNDERGROUND One of the recently declared New Seven Wonders of Nature, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is a grand subterranean river that contains an extensive mountain-tosea ecological network, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site last 1999. Boasting a wide range of forest formations and a large group of birds that comprise most of the vertebrates in the park, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park should hold a significant spot in your must-visit places in the Philippines. Indulge in a natural high and experience a breathtaking underground adventure at one of the Philippines’ most popular tourist destinations. u

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ESSAY

Why It’s More Fun in the Philippines For a Fil-Am

By Christina Oriel

F

ive summers of my 19 years in existence have been spent in the Philippines—two of which were before the age of five, when I was sent across the Pacific to be taken care of by my grandma.

Though I hardly remember the specifics, memories aren’t lost in translation. Sometimes, faint scenes of these childhood vacations enter my mind, especially when I returned to the Philippines as a more perceptive teenager.

Before this sounds a bit saccharine, an immense love for a country seems like a silly thought on the surface.

But it was during my last three trips when I saw why overseas Filipinos and Filipino-Americans vacation in the Philippines. And how my brother was able to abandon, arguably, the greatest city in the world (New York) and relocate to Manila almost two years ago.

When the Department of Tourism unveiled the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” campaign early this year, it became a topic of discussion—especially on social media sites like Twitter. What surprised me about the slogan’s popularity across the Internet was the number of Filipino-Americans, like myself, who pondered what the statement meant to them. A slogan so broad and inviting to interpretation somehow succinctly encapsulates the spirit of the Philippines.

During my trip in 2009, I visited an organic farm positioned atop a mountain, overlooking and sequestered from Cebu City.

To get there, we rode up an unpaved road with no lights guiding the way. A well-explored man joined us for dinner and told us that even with his share of travels, this farm was still his favorite place—worthy of returning to.

Hearing snippets like this, from people who frequent the Philippines, helps me understand the place many deem special.

In a country so vast and sometimes disjointed through regionalism and different dialects, people tend to find common ground in its similar positive aspects. There is much to be enamored with. The pristine beaches. The booming urbanization (Fort Bonifacio’s organized grid system amazes me). The hospitality, unlike anywhere else I’ve visited. The feeling of being welcomed, even in the humblest of areas. The rich cuisine that is savored and serves as a major component in family gatherings. The palengkes

Cebu

Baguio

(public markets) where everything is very fresh. The street vendors selling “dirty” ice cream and rice desserts. The ability to relax and be pampered without a steep price tag. The picturesque landscapes that attract tourists.

For me, the reasons why “it’s more fun” are without bounds.

Memories of adventurous outings like horseback riding up a mountain in torrential downpour, ziplining many kilometers across a rice field, touring the Underground River in Palawan (a new Wonder of the World), eating a meal in a nipa hut while wading in water or getting a pedicure from tiny fish, are forever preserved. There is truly no other place one could experience all these, combined with the natives extending their kindness and generosity.

I cannot begin to imagine the remaining spots left for me to see, as the list is extensive. However, no matter which spot I go to, out of the 7,107 possibilities, I know it’ll be more fun. If there is anyone who has nearly explored it all, then you are a lucky individual. u

For me, the reasons why “it’s more fun” are without bounds.

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

Plantation Bay: A World Of Its Own

By Kristine Bernadeth T. Manaog Photos by Nicole Marie Alvaro

A stretch of villas with direct access to the waters

“And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.”

- F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

I

t has been alluded that summer in Cebu is a little different—it is sweet, like dried mangoes, and a little exciting, like sinugba.

It is a tapestry of a unique culture, people and language. The task of exploring Cebu is truly a challenging adventure.

The Cebu lechon comes to mind, together with greattasting dried goods such as pusit (squid) and danggit (rabbitfish), and world-class mangoes. The gods of Cebuano arts and literature and media institutions such as the International School of Film and Television literally are enough to give me goosebumps.

My adventure in Cebu started after an hour and a half ’s flight.

The weather was a little gloomy when we le ft Manila, but as I stepped down the plane to get my luggage, I instantly fell in love with the place.

The best part of this little adventure was staying at a resort that’s a world of its own.

The Resort of the Sun and Great Sea Set in a staggering 11.4 hectares of lush and secluded land, Plantation Bay Resort and Spa is just a stone’s throw away from Cebu’s busiest district. It is the nearest leisure getaway from the city, where one can experience a truly relaxing environment—away from the stress of city life. It offers one of the largest privatelyowned waterways in the world—one can choose to take a dip in saltwater pools or freshwater enclaves.

The resort, which is literally made up of 80% water, offers its guests private backyard pools. There are 2.3 hectares of saltwater lagoons and four freshwater pools of outstanding design, including

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One of the pool areas inside Mogambo Spa

the Philippines’ largest, Kilimanjaro Pool. The lagoons, whether fresh or salt water, are all man-made. It also has an 88-meter long beachfront (where the waters are exceptionally clear) offering an interesting underwater scenery.

The resort offers rooms sarting from 46sqm, complete with high-end furnishings and state-of-the-art amenities. Plantation Bay Resort offers private settings that are perfect for couples.

Guests can choose from a variety of suites and villas with their own private pools, cottages and gazebos. The zen-inspired room, which is located at the Mogambo Spa, is available for guests who want to indulge in one of the best and most luxurious spas in Asia.

Plantation Bay Resort and Spa is also an advocate for a healthy

TRAVEL DESTINATION lifestyle. That’s why one can choose from a variety of outdoor activities available at the resort. Bicycles are readily available for those lazy afternoons. Wall climbing, archery, volleyball and indoor target shooting are also offered for guests to enjoy. For water lovers, the resort has its own scuba diving facility. There are also light water activities such as snorkeling, banana boat rides, parasailing and jet skiing.

Keeping the Passion Burning Stepping inside the Mogambo Spa is like stepping into another world. The place is reminiscent of an ancient Japanese village, with its cascading massage waterfalls, koi pond, garden and tea house-like rooms.

The half-hectare spa is a haven to those who want to experience lavish pampering and a cup of mint tea to set one’s mood.

The name of the spa is derived from the Swahili word twhich means passion, describing the overall performance of the spa through the years. Established in the 1990s, the Mogambo Spa foresaw the potential of the spa industry in the country. The spa originally is designed after an African-themed garden, outlining the origin of its name that describes the abundance of trees, bamboos and shrubs. Eventually, the spa expanded and changed into a more relaxed vibe, that is, the Japanese zen theme.

Mogambo is also a pioneer in introducing world-class amenities that can rival the spas of neighboring Asian countries. Amenities of top-notch quality are offered to resort guest for the ultimate relaxation and privacy. The spa has dry sauna rooms, steam rooms, hot and cold pools, and a needle shower nook. The spa offers a variety of services, such as massages, body scrubs and therapy.

Their signature full body massage is the most popular. They also offer exclusive massages for pregnant women. Treatments such as the oxygenating facial with amethyst stone and marine cosmetics are also exclusive to the spa.

Wall climbing at Plantation Bay is free for all guests

Bamboo pathway connecting to the hot pool area inside Mogambo Spa

Foot massage area at Mogambo Spa

Gastronomic Treats

The Plantation Bay experience would not be complete without trying their delectable dishes in the resort’s four internationallyrecognized restaurants and themed open buffet nights.

The Palermo Cafe and Bar, the resort’s Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, is known for their Spanish tapas, Spicy shrimp gambas served Italian pastas and wine at Palermo Restaurant. selections. Their garlic prawn gambas, cured ham and select cheeses are a must-try. Pastas, in general, are all appetizing, but the pasta with bleu cheese and Spaghettini al Nero are interesting selections. Palermo is open for light breakfasts, great coffee all day, and Spanish tapas and Italian pastas for dinner.

Meanwhile, the 24-hour Kiliminjaro Cafe offers international and Filipino favorites. Their breakfast buffet is as astounding as the resort itself. One should not leave the restaurant without trying

Dining area at Kilimanjaro Kafe

the Wagyu steak, homemade peanut butter choco ice cream and their world-famous croissants.

Situated in front of the resort’s beach is Fiji Restaurant, which offers a mix of Japanese and Korean cuisines. Munching on jumbo prawn tempuras, lobsters, salmon and barbeques while drinking beer is the best way to spend an afternoon by the shore. Lastly, fast food favorites such as burgers and hotdogs are served at Savannah Grill.

All in all, staying in Plantation Bay Resport and Spa is a relaxing experience. Everything that is essential for a total vacation experience can be found here. Before leaving the resort, a song from the Weezer comes to mind, one that perfectly captures my thoughts about the island: “On an island in the sun we’ll be playing and having fun and it makes me feel so fine... When you’re on a golden sea you don’t need no memory just a place to call your own.” u balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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PHILANTHROPY

Tony Meloto: With Filipino Pride Comes Filipino Dignity

By Libay Linsangan Cantor

W

e have heard of people whose platform for existing is based on helping others. Those who are very Christ-like and very humanitarian.

As the only Catholic country in Asia, we Filipinos are very familiar with this pitch.

But individuals who take this platform several notches higher, by multiplying it exponentially over a span of several years—with the plan of extending it to the next years, decades even—are extraordinary. This is what Tony Meloto has done—and is still doing.

The founder of GK (or Gawad Kalinga, the “small” project with a big heart), Meloto quietly but faithfully paved the way for his own brand of social justice since the 1990s. Building homes for unprivileged families in the beginning, he was able to mobilize not only the poor who benefited from his initial outreach, but also the privileged who wanted more than just handing out charity to those in need.

Soon, corporations were also seeing the light, so to speak, and have been giving more than what their corporate social responsibility tenets require. Local government units and politicians have also been helping, and Meloto couldn’t be happier with the results of all these years of hard work.

But a soul as inspired and as indefatigable as Meloto’s does not dare rest, especially when efforts are all made in the name of love—love for country, love for fellow Filipinos and love for God. “We are now in the second phase,” he elaborates. “This is now our social artistry. We’re designing a first-world country. Every Filipino is a social artist. While painters paint on a canvas, in GK our canvas is society. We turn ugly slums into beautiful communities. We turn criminals into good citizens. That’s social artistry.”

Aesthetic reinvention, indeed. Starting their social justice phase in 2003, Meloto was able to gather up individuals like him to rally for his cause—to end poverty in the Philippines. Eyeing impoverished areas in Metro Manila, he began GK by engaging the communities of informal settlers and making them realize that there is hope beyond the slums, and that hope can be found within themselves.

“When they are denied a cause and a purpose from birth— they’re landless, they’re squatters or if they’re just living as landless tenants in the countryside—if they have no dignity, no dreams, no aspirations, they are not able to develop their own capacity to pursue higher causes. The problem of poverty is behavioral to me more than economic consequence.”

Perhaps many have articulated such a cause before, but none was ever so brave as to take on the challenge head on, even in the realm where action should be emanating from, such as your garden variety societal structures, where goodness should be regularly harvested.

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An animated Meloto shares the excitement of working with young GK social entrepreneurs while showcasing some of their products in their Enchanted Farm Cafe social business enterprise

Meloto gives his two cents on the subject. “We have been practicing Christianity and democracy badly. Plus our education system should really focus on love of country. If you love your country, that’s an expression of your love for God. My problem is, we have too much religion but little faith. Because faith is about faithfulness.”

In his work, there is also emphasis on how intersectionality works. “That’s why GK had the audacity to really articulate a vision that Filipinos, if they work together, they can end poverty—if they transcend. It has to be a transcended cause. Transcend their partisan interests, their business rivalries, their parochial and religious differences.”

With self-empowerment comes self-worth. Soon, the poor is seen working side by side with the privileged by building model communities that one could be proud of. Seven prosperous years, more than 2,000 communities and about a million volunteers later, they are already in the second phase today where social artistry is characterized by the convergence of aspects that were dormant before, or perhaps overlooked by previous efforts, namely making the rich and the poor work together to eradicate poverty by creating sustainable small-scale industries that will make every Filipino proud, tapping farmers and supporting locally-made products.

Thus, Meloto’s new breed of economic and social heroes includes young social entrepreneurs, who work with previously impoverished communities where they are turning idle lands into productive hectares of social sustainability. They now have three concrete examples of such an economically creative convergence: the Enchanted Farm in Bulacan, where farmers grow organic vegetables and make other products; the Enchanted Farm Café in Quezon City, where the farm products are sold and processed; and the thriving Human Nature health and wellness product line.

About 25 more “village universities” are in the works nationwide.

Inhabitants of the communities are treated with dignity, he stresses, when they are made partners in development. Every human is championed, every champion is a hero, all in the name of enlightened capitalism.

Of Social Entrepreneurship and Non-accidental Tourists

By Libay Linsangan Cantor

Believing that Filipino brands could compete globally, Meloto encourages a positive attitude when running a business.

“People always see the glass as half-empty. We not only see it as half-full but our goal is to fill it up.”

“Enlightened capitalism is you try to go for optimum profit.

You go for [the creation of] a more ethical product that helps the people, has a big social impact, protects the environment and the health of the people. You can transact in the mind that you can actually make the Filipino brand big. The principle of enlightened capitalism is to create wealth for yourself and for as many poor people as possible. So no one is left behind. Like the people in our communities, they earn, they live in an environment when they learn how to work hard, and they have profit-sharing. So they’re co-owners of the system. They’re not laborers. And that’s what’s happening. We’re creating our new business model.”

Beyond the self and the community, Meloto always delivers the message that the higher purpose should always be about going beyond Filipino pride—by tapping more into the enhancement of Filipino dignity, as he optimistically shares his thoughts at the onset of good economic growth that the country is currently experiencing.

“We have to stop showing the world that God made a mistake when he made us Filipinos. The way we behave is like we’re a mistake of creation. The first thing we have to really show the world is that we are grateful to God for the gift of this country, and for these young people to realize now, as heroes, that this is the best time to be Filipinos. As heroes, they should demand greatness from themselves, and they should inspire greatness to other people. They should not stop hoping for this country and caring for our people.”

With the number of people and organizations helping GK today, it’s evident that Meloto’s words and works serve as inspiration to proceed. The world is also taking note some more. Aside from the previous honors he garnered locally—namely the 2006 Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership and the 2010 Earnst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year award, among others—he is continuously being honored globally, the recent citation being one of the recipients of the 2012 Skoll Awards for Social Entrepreneurship established by eBay founder Jeff Skoll. He also participated at the 2012 World Economic Forum in Davos.

Indeed, there’s no stopping Meloto’s passion with a purpose.

And in order to produce hope, perhaps a new way of looking at things should also be included in the equation, as Meloto summarizes. “We define development not in terms of money. We define development in terms of restoration of human dignity and quality of life.”

Passion, purpose, hope. In tandem with a new perspective, the Philippines—and Filipinos everywhere—stand a chance in the world. Meloto believes it, and so should we. u

T

raveling always opens one’s mind and widens one’s perspective. Whether one has a random itinerary for fun and relaxation or a fixed schedule for learning and immersing, visiting a foreign land and absorbing its cultural offerings always produces wonders. Journeys, no matter how big or small, amplify the spirits of the curious and recharge the souls of the weary.

But with the concept of “voluntourism,” it is not only one soul that benefits – it’s the soul of the people in a community, thus affecting the spirit of a nation. Not only does it amplify one’s curiosity for participation, but it certainly eradicates weariness, when results are seen and felt.

In the Philippines, this is happening—thanks to Gawad Kalinga’s (GK) social entrepreneurship phase.

This phase is part of the overall model of eradicating poverty in the Philippines, as envisioned by GK founder Tony Meloto. First launched in 2003, the first 7-year design for social justice is meant to uplift the impoverished by helping them build respectable communities with resources sustainability.

The next 7-year design is to activate social artistry, which includes the encouragement of social entrepreneurship in connection with the sustainability program. This is meant to lead to the last 7-year design of social progress when, hopefully, poverty in the Philippines will be a thing of the past.

This year, GK is well on its way in enacting the social artistry phase, which involves training young citizens of the nation to become social entrepreneurs. They are mostly twentysomething college-educated people, who join GK as volunteers and help create or enhance smallscale businesses with the help of GK community inhabitants.

Once they have identified the products to develop and communities to work with, they proceed to train with the people, work together to create eco-friendly local products and sell them or become suppliers.

This system is best seen thriving in GK’s Enchanted Farm— a 14hectare land in Angat, Bulacan, where products are prototyped. GK households participate as working partners, and businesses get tested and developed.

This is where voluntourism works. Those who want to see and experience the work being done in this set-up are welcome to visit. The farm is open to anyone, and it has already welcomed both local and international volunteers. Voluntourists could help with any aspect of the community work and are welcome to stay for one or two weeks, even up to three to six months.

The set-up is currently popular with European undergraduate and graduate students, taking time off from school to volunteer as development workers in developing countries (known as the “gap year” in their system).

What voluntourists could do is try their hand at farming or creating crafts, or input their learned skills in any aspect, such as managing businesses, designing product packages, creating logos and anything conceivable to create.

One need not have any business background to be a social entrepreneur volunteer; one just needs to have the drive to help others and to succeed.

Thus, to be a voluntourist is to be in a win-win situation. You get to help once impoverished communities, jumpstart promising local businesses and eventually contribute to make the world a better place.

From these baby steps, giant leaps will later be taken. What’s not to like?

So go out, travel, volunteer and serve. Meloto promises that it’s good for the soul of the nation, as well as the soul of the tourist—and it is. u

balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

Gawad Kalinga’s Enchanted Farm: Not Your Usual Fairy Tale

By Kristine Bernadeth T. Manaog Photos By Nicole Marie Alvaro

The Grand Palace located at the center of the farm

The Pilipinas Shell stage, a place for events and meetings

T

he Gawad Kalinga (GK) Community is no less than a fairy tale. Built from dreams and hopes, it is the fulfillment of a happy ending—not necessarily a fairy tale one, but a progressive epic—acknowledging the good in everybody, providing felicity to the uninitiated, and welcoming anyone as a part of their family.

“You have to see the goodness in everybody...that’s the only way that you will treat them like a part of your family,” said Tony Meloto during an interview with Balikbayan Magazine.

In the same way, charity is not a solution to poverty, nor will it paint an end to any kind of scarcity. The GK Foundation has been viewed as a charity, even a fund-raising event, when, in fact, it is neither. GK is a movement—one that is bold enough to declare that they will end poverty in 2024.

Sitting area just beside the Grassroots Kitchen and Dairy Hut

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Enchanting, Indeed An astonishing 14-hectare property will welcome you after a 2.5-hour road trip from Manila. Located at Barangay Encanto, Angat, Bulacan, the bamboo-embellished front gate of the aptly named Enchanted Farm is reminiscent of the Disney Castle.

The Enchanted Farm is a large piece of land developed for social businesses. It is also home to almost 50 families. It is a nurturing community, as well as a school that provides means for its people to achieve their dreams. At present, about 25% of the property has been developed, and the plan to build more accommodations, amenities, houses and venues for social enterprises this year is, indeed, a big task. But this is just the

TRAVEL DESTINATION beginning of GK’s 21-year vision of a First World Philippines.

The Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farm offers several venues for team-building and corporate meetings. One of which is the Grassroots Kitchen, a multi-purpose area that holds several GK events, including the weddings of its entrepreneurs. The farm also has five bed and breakfast facilities—the Farm Terraces, shell villas, grass villas, grass cabanas and hammocks that offer GK guests with old fashioned and simple accommodations.

Apart from social entrepreneurship, the farm encourages leisure and relaxation.

From the Grassroots Kitchen, a mere fiveminute walk will take you to the stunning Grass Palace, a bamboo-inspired structure (which, of course, features one of the Philippines’ local products, bamboo).

There is also a heart-shapped dipping pool where kids can beat the heat, as well as picnic and bonfire areas for families and friends to enjoy.

Nature flourishes all around the farm.

Right in front of the village community is Tita Cory’s Garden—a small garden dedicated to the late president Cory Aquino—and an orchidarium located just in front of the Grass Cabana.

Interesting structures are scattered around the farm, giving off a free-spirited vibe. A colorful bridge, which is made of huge recycled paint cans, leads to a small picnic area. A small house on a treetop serves as the farm’s mini-salon.

Guests can also take home some of the products made in the farm like cheese, milk

Tita Cory’s Garden: A flower garden dedicated to the late President Corazon C. Aquino

and pesto. There’s a Human Nature Store at the back of the Grassroots Kitchen, which houses all organic beauty products.

Another souvenir shop is located near the entrance that has Bulacanmade products and other GK products like the Theo & Philo artisan chocolate.

Grassroots Kitchen, the reception area of Enchanted Farm

The Enchanted Farm Cafe Sitting comfortably at the two-month old cafe of Gawad Kalinga in Quezon City, one can’t help but be amazed by the fast growth of the establishment.

Enchanted Farm Cafe has signature healthy dishes and specialty beverages that can compete in any local market scene.

Located below the cafe is the Human Nature store, a testament to our people’s faith in humanity, as seen in the smiling eyes of its people, who used to think that there was no escaping poverty.

“Ang Pinoy walang dahilan maging dukha (A Pinoy has no reason to be poor).... The way to end poverty is through prosperity,” said Meloto. It is this simple formula that has given the GK Community recognition across the globe. Its goal of helping the less privileged is sustained by inspiring them to change their mentality of being poor, thus ending poverty.

Self-sustaining Ecosystem Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farm only started offering its facilities and accommodations two years ago, but the families who live at the farm have been here for almost four years. “The whole farm is an ecosystem of sort,” said Joni Gail Morales, a Center Social Innovation (CSI) full-timer. One survives through the help of another, be it in the form of education, encouragement or enterprises.

GK entrepreneurs help skilled community members to market their products, while CSI volunteers teach them about the importance of logistics, time management and product consistency.

Located just beside the village are different workshops where products are made. The Blue Bamboo (which is garnering interest in the international scene) provides unusual products made

GK burgers (made of organic vegetables); organic salad with Golden Egg, and kamote fries

Enchantea, one of GK farm’s products

of bamboo, such as the bamboo bike.

Rattan Man offers rattan products and Golden Egg, GK’s gourmet salted egg.

The Happy Green team is responsible for the Enchantea and Purple Leaf tea. There is also Gourmet Keso, makers of dairy products.

Through the GK’s social enterprises, students and volunteers abroad flock the farm to learn more about the GK’s social entrepreneurship action plan. These “voluntourists” help the community in any way possible. This way, communities are sustained through the many business ventures, making the farm both a tourist destination and a ‘Silicon Valley’ for young social entrepreneurs.

Truly, the Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farm is a destination both for tourists and volunteers. With a grand vision to end poverty in 2024, Jerick Limoanco, CSI full-timer, reminds us that we can do our part to achieve this, and that “GK alone cannot save the world.” u

balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

An Eastern Enchantment Text and Photos by Dennis Noel A. Balangue

No words can express the allure of Thunderbird Resort Rizal in Binangonan, Rizal.

Balikbayan Magazine gives you a visual pastiche to entice the exhausted and rejuvenate the weary. Enjoy the visual feast.

A cabana can be used for your own small private function

A

What To Expect part from its unparalleled peace and relaxation, this 41-room resort—with its new Rizal Event Center Ballroom—is the ideal venue for those planning a vacation, honeymoon, wedding, conference, concert or any other gathering, be it social or corporate. This huge party place can accommodate 300 to 600 people.

Outside, overlooking the Laguna Bay, an infinity pool, kiddie pool and Jacuzzi await family and friends who wish to be refreshed with every dip, lap or dive. Compliment each plunge with mouthwatering food from the pool bar.

Inside, each span—be it a Deluxe Room or the Presidential Suite—the decision to stay in or go out will be a personal battle, for each air-conditioned crib is equipped with Wi-Fi, a home theater system, bath tub and a private balcony to name a few.

Amidst the tranquility, there lies a place within Thunderbird Resort-Rizal, which boasts a cacophony of lights and sounds—the Fiesta Casino. This contained excitement collects 30 table games and 450 slot machines, ready for the high rollers, amateurs and professional players alike.

As the day winds down, pamper yourself with your choice of reflexology or the Signature Zaphira Massage from the Zaphira Spa. Have it in your own room or beside a waterfall landscaped haven.

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The new Rizal Event Center can accommodate 300 guests and double that when cocktails are in order

TRAVEL DESTINATION

THUNDERBIRD RESORTS

Finally, but certainly not the least, the cuisine at Koi Restaurant is one of the most brilliantly concocted feasts exquisitely thought of by Executive Chef Lou Jurilla. Made mostly from local produce and backyard-grown ingredients from what they fondly call as their own ‘farmville,’ the made-to-share dishes are reason enough to make one come back every week to Thunderbird Resort-Rizal all year round.

Braised Lamb Shank a la Caldereta

How To Get There From Ortigas Center: Take Ortigas Avenue Extension heading east to Antipolo City. From Ortigas Avenue Extension, follow the road and take the U-Turn in Tikling and head right to Tikling Antipolo Teresa Morong Road. Go past the Ynares Stadium and Provincial Capitol and proceed ahead to the first major intersection with a stop light at M.L. Quezon Extension Road. Turn right and follow the main road for about 7kms. past Mahabang Parang to Binangonan until you enter the gate of Eastridge Avenue. Thunderbird Resort – Rizal is the entrance on your left (before the tunnel).

There’s a Zen garden beside what they fondly call their ‘farmville’ where backyard-grown ingredients find their way to the kitchen

You can have your pampering outside or inside the privacy of your own room

From Quezon City & Marikina: Take Marcos Highway to Sumulong Highway heading east to Antipolo. From Sumulong Highway, turn right at Pascual Oliveros Road heading to Antipolo City. At stoplight, turn left on M.L. Quezon Extension Road and follow the main road for about 7kms. past Mahabang Parang to Binangonan until you enter the gate of Eastridge Avenue. Thunderbird Resort – Rizal is the entrance on your left (before the tunnel).

From Makati via Floodway: Take C-5 heading north to Valle Verde area. Make a right heading east to Mercedes Avenue and Taytay Angono Floodway Bridge. After crossing the Floodway Bridge, turn right and follow East Bank Road heading to Taytay & Angono (near Baytown Market). Make a right again and follow Rodriguez Avenue heading to Angono Drive. Take a left at Colonel Guido Road and follow the steep, winding road to Eastridge Golf Course. Thunderbird Resort – Rizal’s entrance driveway will be located on your right, past the tunnel.

Thunderbird Resorts – Rizal Eastridge Avenue Binangonan, Rizal, Philippines 1940 T: (+63 2) 651.6888 / 886.5555 | F: (632) 651.3893 E: rizalreservations@thunderbird-asia.com W: www.thunderbird-asia.com balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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TASTE BUDS EATS. More Fun in the

ats in avao E xciting D Philippines

D

avao City is one of the highly urbanized cities located in the southern part of the Philippines. With a population close to 1.5 million people in 2010, Davao City is buzzling with vibrant city energy and activities that visitors from all parts would love to take part of.

Balikbayan Magazine joined the 4th day of “The Epic Davao Foodtrip” by Sooo Pinoy—a one-week food trip (through a partnership with the Department of Tourism and Unilever) featuring the best restaurants that the province has to offer.

Sampling the finest dishes of five to six restaurants per day, different media outfits and bloggers participated in celebrating Davao’s epicurean treats.

Sizzling Tuna Sisig from Kusina Selera

Kusina Selera Located at Legaspi Suites in Davao City, Kusina Selera was the first stop for the day’s gastronomic adventure. First on the list was the Crispy Tadyang. Guests who order this succulent dish get to enjoy a hefty serving of meaty pork ribs. Kusina Selera’s version of the Pinoy favorite is crispier and tastier, when dipped in the soybased sauce.

Next is the Chicken Binakol, a stewed chicken dish cooked with coconut meat and coconut water. The creaminess of the coconut, combined with the delicious and tender chicken meat, is simply irresistible—it makes you crave for more.

The celebrated Tuna Sisig came next, a local twist to the very popular “pulutan” of the masses.

Kusina Selera’s version of the Tuna Sisig is topped with chopped tomatoes and onions—adding tang to the very yummy dish. And just like the other dishes, the Tuna Sisig is a must-try. Lastly, the “heart-pounding” Crispy Pata. Tender on the inside and extremely crispy on the outside, Kusina Selera’s take on this all-time Filipino favorite is surprisingly meaty, compared to the other Crispy Pata dishes offered elsewhere.

The interior of Kusina Selera can function both as a romantic set-up for couples or as a homey, relaxed environment for families and friends. The laidback atmosphere is more

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Davao Pangga Fish Cakes with Pomelo Salsa from Binggoy’s Gourmet

beautiful at night, with the soft glow of the lights within and outside the restaurant, which accentuate easy living, Davao-style.

Binggoy’s Gourmet (with the special participation of Kusineros of Davao) The hostess and owner of Binggoy’s Gourmet, Mary Ann “Baby” Montemayor, welcomed the media with a big smile. Binggoy’s Gourmet (formerly Binggoy’s Lounge) is named after her foodie husband.

For starters, the Davao Wow Kinilaw was presented (an experiment of Mary Ann) followed by Davao Pangga Fish Cakes with Pomelo Salsa. The fish cakes are nugget-sized fried fish portions with pomelo salsa on top. The salsa complements the “roughness” of the cake nicely, both in flavor and texture.

Next was the very healthy Pomelo Salad and Tuna Jaw Meat Salad with Davao Mango Dressing. At this point, one would notice that most of the dishes were served with fruits.

This is to further showcase the local produce that Davao is famous for. What followed was Adobong Panga, which was served on a large plate – good for sharing.

To cap the delicious meal, guests can choose between Davao Camote-Durian Roll and Tablea Leche Flan for dessert, with the latter being a

balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

By Jane Francis S. Quinabo Photos by Nicole Alvaro

Mouth-watering Kinilaw from Kookel’s

Garlic Shrimp in Sweet Chili Sauce from Glamour Crabs Buffet

crowd favorite. The twist in the native leche flan is a winner—the mouth-watering flavour of chocolate combined with the consistency of the flan.

Since Mary Ann is an officer of the Davao Region Tourism Council, there was a second batch of food served at Binggoy’s Gourmet, this time, by a group of chefs in Davao who call themselves Kusineros of Davao. The Kusineros prepared three dishes that are aesthetically appetizing and delicious: the Chicken and Mushroom Bamboo Rice (a combination of red rice, native chicken, and mushroom cooked on bamboo); Bungos na Bangus (steamed fish roll with a side of vegetable salad); and their popular Durian Crepe Cake—a unique twist from the usual durian desserts that most Davao restaurants offer.

Glamour Crabs Buffet There is no excuse for not trying the other seafood dishes in Davao City. And what better way to sample them than by engaging in an all-you-can-eat Crab Buffet at Glamour. With crabs harvested all the way from Cotabato, Glamour offers a signature sauce that pairs well with its delicious buffet. Blending together squash and bagoong (fish paste), the result is a semi-salty and semi-creamy concoction that

TASTE BUDS EATS. More Fun in the

Philippines

Kaldereta Espanol from Tiny Kitchen

creates a new sensation of flavors—an authentic Filipino taste.

The restaurant also offers non-crab dishes.

The most popular is the Beef Sinina, Glamour’s take on the very tasty Muslim dish of beef stew with ground coconut. The dish can be compared to another Southeast Asian dish, beef rendang.

Tiny Kitchen Yes, it’s called Tiny Kitchen, but there is nothing tiny about the place nor its food selection. What started out as a bakesho is now a restaurant that caters authentic Spanish dishes, aside from the original baked goodies. Owners, chefs and the husband-and-wife tandem of Enteng and Donna Rodriguez have improved the restaurant’s fare and the dining space.

Only one main dish was served but it was among the crowd favorites and it belongs to Tiny Kitchen’s best-sellers list: the Kaldereta Español. The very tender beef and flavorful sauce are mixed with potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, sausages, olives and other selected ingredients.

After four restaurants of heavy food (including Chef Enteng’s) the team is ready for dessert, and Tiny Kitchen served plates of its well-loved pastries, cakes and other baked creations of caramel, mocha and chocolate, which the group happily ate.

Tiny Kitchen has a wide variety of dishes —from pastas to main entrees of beef, pork, fish, chicken and vegetables, to sandwiches and

Fried Native Chicken from Kookel’s

Pansit Malabon from Pansititoy

desserts. Name it, and Tiny Kitchen would have it on the menu.

Pansititoy Opening its first branch on March 17, 2006, Pansititoy now has four branches that serve quality Pansit Palabok, Crispy Pata and Crispy Chicken. It took a while before everyone could sample the dishes served, but once they started helping themselves to the legendary Pinoy “merienda” (consisting of egg noodles mixed with annatto or more commonly known as achuete sauce, crunchy chicharon bits, hardboiled egg, some greens and shrimp as toppings) it whetted everyone’s appetite.

Pansititoy also serves Crispy Belly, Crispy Buntot, and Chicharon Bulaklak. Sinfully delicious and yet very affordable especially for travelers on a budget, the restaurant’s servings are also good for sharing—promoting a sense of camaraderie among all its visitors and guests.

Kookel’s (Bangkal Branch) Kookel’s Kooking Restaurant is famous for its Lechon Manok. With kiosks all over the city, their Bangkal branch is the only one with a spacious dining area for guests who want an authentic Filipino dining experience with a Davaoeño twist. The owners and manager of the place are very hands-on, and the staff is very friendly.

Food at Kookel’s is simply delicious. Their Lechon Manok won over many of the partakers, who couldn’t help but have second, third, and more helpings of the yummy chicken.

Another must-try chicken dish is the Fried Native Chicken. The manager of Kookel’s demonstrated the “proper” way of eating it (to fully enjoy the explosion of flavors). Pour some lemon or calamansi extract on a piece of chicken, then dip it in the salt and pepper mixture before taking your first bite.

A side dish of steamed vegetables (okra, bitter gourd or ampalaya), eggplant and string beans among others) that can be dipped on the

Durian Crepe Cake by the Kusineros of Davao

bagoong sauce was also served. Their version Kare-kare is quite unique—abundant in peanut sauce goodness, yummy and colorful.

Next to the Lechon Manok, another crowd favorite is Kookel’s take on the Davao-famous Kinilaw. Adapting it to Inihaw na Liempo as the main ingredient instead of raw fish, Kookel’s Kinilaw mixes the very tasty grilled pork with onion, bell peppers, chili peppers and radish.

Kookel’s also had a band that entertained the group, and as the evening progressed, the 2012 Tatt Awards winner of The Explorer, Bogart the Explorer, serenaded everyone with his own rendition of Wonderwall by Oasis and the late Yoyoy Revillame’s Butchikik.

The Advocacy Sooo Pinoy provides an avenue for Filipinos all over the country and around the world to further appreciate culinary and gastronomic adventures.

Learn about the history of food and discover the location of the best restaurants. At Sooo Pinoy, “Ang sarap maging Pinoy!” u

Bungos na Bangus by the Kusineros of Davao

balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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TASTE BUDS EATS. More Fun in the

Philippines

Off the Eaten Path

By Oliver Bayani

Y

ou need not go to expensive restaurants for authentic Filipino food. Often, they’re found at the end of a long queue of hungry people in front of makeshift food carts, peddling food in different shapes and colors on practically every street corner.

Lip-smacking, exotic, colorful and with funny names, nowhere in the world will you find sidewalk delicacies like “toknene,” “abnoy,” “walkman” and “ helmet”—aliases that have left many curious, not to mention cautious.

For the uninitiated and for Filipinos abroad with fond memories of these local treasures, satiate both your curiosity and nostalgia with Balikbayan Magazine’s list of must-try Pinoy street foods.

Isaw Undeniably the poster child for Filipino street food, isaw is a serving of grilled pork or chicken intestines on bamboo skewers.

These tasty treats are cleaned thoroughly and then marinated in garlic, soy sauce, salt, pepper and other spices. Best eaten fresh off the grill and dipped in spicy vinegar.

flour and vegetables. The resulting batter is then steamed to form a pale-yellow pancake. The pancake is cut into quarters and sold alongside a fresh balut. Aptly named ‘abnoy’ (the Filipino slang for ‘abnormal’), connoisseurs swear that while it smells like its rotten, it amazingly tastes like raw oysters.

Taho A signature sweet with Chinese roots, taho is a combination of hot silken bean curd, arnibal (thick brown sugar syrup) and sago (tapioca). For an added zing, pandan leaves or vanilla are added to the syrup. Vendors called “magtatahos” carry the ingredients from one street to another, kept in specially designed aluminum containers suspended on a pingga (bamboo plank).

Balut This boiled three-week-old duck egg specialty is an all-time favorite snack in the Philippines. Balut aficionados recommend eating it at night for its alleged aphrodisiac properties. Doused with salt or vinegar with chili, most Filipinos swear that eating this exotic street food can improve your stamina. The word ‘ balut’ roughly means ‘wrapped’ in Tagalog, which perfectly describes how the eggs are kept piping hot in buckets of sand or a damp cloth.

Abnoy If you find eating balut revolting, how about a serving of balut pancakes? These stale fertilized duck eggs are mixed with

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ISAW Photo by B’ley Villones

TAHO Photo by Gerry San Miguel

Banana Q and Kamote Q A Filipino merienda staple, ‘banana Q’ or ‘banana cue’ is deep-fried saba (a smaller, meatier type of banana called plantain) coated in caramelized brown sugar. On the other hand, kamote Q is the sweet potato variant. Equally delicious varieties of these snacks include turon (fried banana rolls with jackfruit), maruya (banana fritters) and kamote fries.

Kwek Kwek, I.O. (Itlog na Orange) and Tokneneng Whatever you call them, these neon orange balls will surely calm your rumbling tummies. Kwek-kwek is hardboiled chicken egg coated with an orange-colored batter and deep fried to a golden crisp.

balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

TOKNENENG Photo by B’ley Villones

The smaller version is called tokneneng (or tuknene), which makes use of quail eggs.

Smother them with a sweet, spicy sauce or dip the balls into a jar of chili vinegar and you’re in for a tasty treat.

Iskrambol Aptly named as the Pinoy slang for “scramble,” this slushie-type treat is made with shaved ice tinged with pink food coloring, topped with milk powder and chocolate syrup. Before this treat became “commercialized,” you normally find iskrambol carts on the streets, outside schools and churches. Today, the stalls moved into malls as one of the fastestgrowing food cart franchises in the country.

TASTE BUDS EATS. More Fun in the Binatog Binatog is as simple as it gets. It is made of boiled white corn kernels (that have been soaked in brine), seasoned with sugar or a pinch of salt. It is served topped with grated coconut, while variants are boiled in coconut cream. Unfortunately, unlike the resurgence of iskrambol, there are now hardly any bicycle vendors selling this once sought after merienda.

Betamax This peculiar grilled street food got its name because of its resemblance to (the now obsolete) first home videocassette tape format that became popular in the 1980s.

Betamax is a gooey, solid block of chicken or pork blood that is seasoned, skewered and grilled to perfection. The salty, bitesized squares have the uncanny ability to absorb whatever sauce you drench them in.

The balls are skewered on sticks and served with a choice of four kinds of dipping sauces: sweet, sweet and spicy, banana ketchup, and spiced vinegar.

Kakanin Kakanin is a collective name for Filipino snacks made with rice. They are typically laid out in circular bamboo pans called bilao, and are undeniably the most colorful among the street foods in the country.

Popular treats with hues that rival the rainbow include: Puto: Puffy rice cakes that comes in variety of colors, topped with cheese butter or coconut.

Kutsinta: Similar to puto, it is made up of gelatinous rice but with lye and brown sugar, giving it a gummy consistency.

Sapin-sapin: A very colorful, layered rice cakes topped with grated coconut or toasted coconut milk curd.

Suman: Steamed glutinous rice with coconut milk, wrapped in banana or coconut leaves. Perfect with coffee.

Betamax Photo by B’ley Villones

Helmet, Adidas and DayOld Talk about ingenuity when it comes to creating exotic eats out of seemingly discarded chicken parts. The helmet is grilled chicken heads marinated in a sauce that is similar to the one used in isaw. The adidas is grilled chicken feet on skewers, so named because of its resemblance to the three stripes in the German shoe company’s logo. The day-old is a oneday-old male chick that is marinated and grilled on a skewer.

Fishball, Squidball and Kikiam These deep-fried balls are found in pretty much every street corner in the country. The fish ball is made of minced fish meat and is, ironically, flat in shape.

The squid ball is the recent variation made of minced cuttlefish while kikiam (the Filipino version of Chinese quekiam) is made of ground pork, vegetables and choice spices wrapped in bean curd sheets.

Bibingka: Glutinous rice cake (often served with salted egg on top) which is extremely popular during Christmas.

Philippines

Suman Photo by Gerry San Miguel

Ukoy Ukoy or okoy is the Filipino version of shrimp fritters. Whole, unshelled small shrimps are mixed in a batter with onions and mung bean sprouts (togue). A variation of this dish uses small fishes such as dulong or dilis. Deep-fried until crispy, it is always accompanied by vinegar to balance out its oiliness.

Samalamig Under the tropical heat, drinks such as ‘samalamig’ are not just refreshments but a necessity for both locals and tourists. This cold drink comes in a variety of flavors— the most popular ones include sago at gulaman (ice cold water with arnibal, gelatin bits and sago), buko pandan, and plain buko juice. u

PALITAW: Gooey snack made from glutinous rice, topped with rice sesame seeds and grated coconut.

Chicharon An extremely addictive snack (which originated from Spain), chicharon is made of bite-sized chicken or pork meat which are seasoned and deep-friend to a crisp.

Variants include balat ng manok, (crispy chicken skin) chicharong baboy (pork rind), chicharong bituka (chicken and pork intestines), and chicharong bulaklak (pork innards). It goes without saying that a platter of fresh chicharon with a spicy vinegar dip is one of best companions to your local beer.

Chicharon Photo by Gerry San Miguel

Walkman The ‘walkman’ is basically pig’s ears marinated, skewered and grilled over hot coals. The chewy, crispy ears are paired with, again, spiced vinegar and a bottle of beer. This tasty mouthful got its name from Sony’s famous portable music players in the late 1980s. balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

31

The Lourd of the Word

By Nickee de Leon-Huld Photos by Shaira Luna

However, for someone who has written high-octane essays and commentaries on Pinoy politics, religion, social stratification, pop culture, signages, public transportation, public restrooms, annoying actresses, the media, (even something as inane as toilet paper)—when it comes to describing himself, I discovered that Lourd can be as terse as a road sign.

Call it modesty. Call it nonchalance. Call it whatever you want. But despite his downplaying, in my book, Lourd Ernest Hanopol De Veyra is one of the greatest writers (and speakers) of our generation.

“ ‘Possibility’ is what art is all about. It is

the constant wrestling with forms, styles, and

structures. It is the idea that something better is always out there. It is about discontent. It is

about discontent with the safe, the middling, the accepted, and the acceptable.”

- Lourd De Veyra

I

confess. Writing about a seasoned writer (and a multiawarded one at that) is always a nerve-wracking and challenging experience for me. It’s like Edward Cullen seeking vampire advice from Le Stat. Or asking Darth Vader what it’s like to be on the dark side.

But I wasn’t going to pass up an opportunity to write about Lourd Ernest Hanopol De Veyra—even if it means being inundated with quips and wisecracks. After all, this is what makes Lourd compelling and fascinating to his fans and admirers.

As our common friend, Chic Nidoy (who got me the email interview with Lourd, by the way) succinctly surmised: “Ugaling Bignay kasi.” In Lourdspeak, this quality probably translates to being “wasak na wasak.”

Lourd’s no-nonsense (and often profanity-laden) quips, lyrics, commentaries and realizations about anything and everything under the sun can make one’s jaw literally drop—whether in utter amazement or dumbfounded repugnance, is up to the reader (or the listener.)

The beauty of Lourd’s rhetoric lies in the grit—brutal truth expressed in a language that cuts across the socio-economic spectrum. Its universal appeal stems from Lourd’s ability to amalgamate brashness, banter and intelligent opinion.

I can go on and on all day with adjectives (and the occasional expletive) to describe the man who has mastered the art of combining his literary style with kanto speak—turning it into a hybrid of eloquence. The crux of the matter is, there is some biblical truth to the “Word of the Lourd.”

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balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

Super Panalo Qualities Born on February 11, 1975, the 37-year-old Lourd Ernest Hanopol De Veyra has been described as “a multi-awarded Filipino musician, poet, journalist, broadcast personality and activist who first became famous for being the vocalist of Manila-based jazz rock band Radioactive Sago Project.”

He graduated from the University of Santo Tomas with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and is a four-time Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awardee.

Lourd cites Beat movement writers, Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac, as his literary influences. He has published three books of poetry: Subterranean Thought Parade, Shadowboxing in Headphones and Insectissimo.

Lourd’s “Consumeresque” is the long-winded rant of a starving writer— one who is compelled to pen “dumb, lousy, brainless, inane paragraphs” for a consumerist-driven society, in order to survive. For Radioactive Sago Project fans, it is unavoidable to perceive “Consumeresque” as a lyric poetry. You can almost imagine “punebre”-sque jazz renditions playing in the background.

Lourd described his inclinations for jazz and poetry best at the 45th UP National Writers Workshop (where he was a fellow): “What I look for in poetry is an uneasy kind of energy. An energy that is already beyond the configuration of words and then assumes a density that is akin to music. At the heart of it all is jazz. Jazz, the manipulation of breath—the unleashing of breath, the holding of breath, the destruction of breath. The most basic unit of jazz is the swing and the breath. My primary influence is the Beat movement and I think my initial fascination for them was rather hinged on the wrong reasons: the radical visual arrangement of lines on the page, the profanity and the absurdity that struck my mind as a welcome relief from the stultifying archaisms of 17th-century English poetry force-fed on us by high school teachers. Here was, at long last, literature that spoke to me. It was in sympathy with the energy of free jazz and punk rock records that I was listening to at that time. Through the lyrics of punk rock and hardcore records, I had an inkling of how words can be more powerful than a guitar amplifier cranked up all the way to ten. My exposure to the poetry of Ginsberg and Kerouac opened me up to the world of possibilities.

And I am obsessed with the idea of ‘possibility.’ ‘Possibility’ is what art is all about. It is the constant wrestling with forms, styles, and structures. It is the idea that something better is always out there. It is about discontent.

It is about discontent with the safe, the middling, the accepted, and the acceptable.”

His first novel, SuperPanalo Sounds! (released in 2011), was lauded by José Victor Z. Torres of Philippine Daily Inquirer : “De Veyra pulled off

ARTS his debut as a novelist well. Like his poetry and essays where slices of life and social commentaries are presented in bare, stripped-down verses and sentences, the novel is a veritable obra by an artist whose music and words he is famous for mold the very fabric of this full-length fiction...”

Also in 2011, Lourd released a collection of essays from his hit Spot.ph blog, This is A Crazy Planets, which was met (in the words of Lourd) with “mind-boggling” enthusiasm. My personal favorites are: “Umasal Lamang ng Ayon sa Ganda,” “Ang Tunay na Lalake, Walang Abs,” and “Sa Ikaaayos ng Mundo, ‘Wag Mag-sando!” Reading just one essay from the compilation is bound to give you a triple-dose of endorphins—even make you roll on the floor in raucous, belly-busting laughter. The book is on its second printing and ranks third on National Bookstore’s bestseller list of local publications.

Currently, Lourd is pre-occupied with several shows on TV5: a segment for his brainchild, Word of the Lourd; Aksyon TV (where he is the weather guy) and his own talk show on Aksyon TV 41, Wasak! He also hosts his own radio show, Chillax Radio: Suwabeng usapan, wasak na tugtugan on 92.3 News FM. His band, Radioactive Sago Project, has already produced three albums: Radioactive Sago Project (Self-titled, 2000), Urban Gulaman (2004) and Tang--- Mo Andaming Nagugutom Sa Mundo Fashionista Ka Pa Rin (2007). A still yet unnamed fourth album is in the works.

To say that Lourd is on a roll, would be an understatement.

The ‘Wasak’ Interview Balikbayan Magazine (BM): At age 37, you’ve already accomplished so much as a well-rounded artist. What keeps you motivated? What else is out there for Lourd De Veyra to accomplish?

Lourd De Veyra (LDV): Motivation? I’m not really sure. Maybe the fact that I am aware of how I used to suck at things. I wasn’t the best poet in campus. I wasn’t the best guitarist within my immediate sphere of comusicians. It’s probably a toxic-waste product of a lot of insecurities—a sentiment that remains with me hitherto. But it’s not as if I’m trying to compete with anyone. I just like to work. And the fact that a paycheck awaits at the end of job is an additional motivation.

BM: With all these achievements under your belt, you have become a role model for your generation and for younger generations. What would you say would be your legacy/lasting imprint to society? How do you want Lourd De Veyra to be remembered, or be emulated for?

LDV: I’m not really conscious about these things, truth to tell. I have a job/s to do and I try to do them well. Look, I don’t really believe I’m talented. But I’m a serious worker. Give me something to do and I will research it to death—as long as that job falls within the purview of my interest. Whatever happens after that, well, bahala na si Batman.

BM: Re:The Philippine Independence Day animated video collaboration between Radioactive Sago Project and Arnold Arre. What brought about its inception? Are there any other current collaborations/projects brewing for Radioactive Sago Project?

LDV: The anthem is the idea of Gang Badoy of Rock Ed Philippines.

The band’s horn section could actually play the national anthem, even in their sleep—they’re from marching bands in Rizal. They play [in] fiestas, funerals, etc.

BM: What’s next for you in terms of writing projects? ‘The Best of This is A Crazy Planets,’ as an initial essay collection, was met with overwhelming response. Should we expect a sequel anytime soon?

LDV: Yes, but I’m a little short on output right now. I’m just thankful for the positive response. It’s already on its second printing and is third on National Bookstore’s bestseller list of local publications. Mind-boggling.

BM: How much have you grown (in terms of your writing) from the time you created your first novel, ‘SuperPanalo Sounds!,’ to the present?

LDV: Finishing a novel provided more impetus for me as writer.

Look, I’ve never considered myself a fictionist. I’ve never even published a short story in my life. Writing a novel is like running a marathon. As to ‘growth?’ I dunno. I’m still struggling. Writing doesn’t come easy. I think the moment you think it comes easy, you’re in deep sh-t.

BM: What were your thoughts when you were asked to deliver the commencement speech for UP Masscom Class 2012? You seem to have mastered the art of injecting quips and candid opinions in just about any piece you write or speak, whether it’s for a commencement speech, an essay for ‘This is A Crazy Planets,’ or a script for ‘Word of the Lourd.’ Would you call this your trademark as a writer?

LDV: I dunno. I was trying to remember all those keynote speakers I’ve heard throughout my academic life—and I couldn’t even recall a single one. I think the worst crime for any speaker—worse than lying—is to bore the audience to tears. When they first sent an invitation, I didn’t think they were serious. When it came to the actual speech, I tried to rush it—I thought everyone was already hungry. It was close to lunch time.

BM: In your speech, you juxtaposed the irony of being invited to deliver a commencement speech, when you yourself weren’t able to attend your own college graduation. You viewed your future back then with such bleakness—the complete opposite of what you’re experiencing today. What do you think does the future hold for the Filipino youth of today? What message would you like to impart to them?

LDV: Stop tweeting and start working.

BM: You are currently involved with TV5’s ‘Aksyon’ and ‘Wasak!,’ a radio show called ‘Chillax Radio,’ a regular blog in Spot.ph, and are still very much active in your band Radioactive Sago Project. With all these commitments, how do you manage to juggle such a hectic schedule? Are there other projects/ commitments that need to be put in the backburner?

LDV: We’re trying to finish the fourth album and I’m trying to start my second novel. It’s about my grandmother though in the end, I want everyone to be abducted by aliens. I’m still figuring out how to go about it.

BM: What are your thoughts on Francis Brew’s blog in Yahoo! Philippines

balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

33

ARTS about music icon Cynthia Alexander leaving the country? Do you agree with Alexander’s sentiments about the Philippine music industry? Do you think that there are lesser opportunities/breaks for indie Filipino musicians in the Philippines at present? Or do you think that the medium has just shifted and adapted itself, resorting to a more targeted, online format?

LDV: She’ll be back, don’t worry.

“Sa dancing lesson, wala kang ibang pwedeng gawin kundi sumunod. Pag hinila ka dito, sunod ka na lang. Pag binaba ka, bumaba ka rin. Pag hinagis ka, magpagaan ka ng katawan. Susugan din ito ng isa pang quote mula kay Voltaire: ‘I refuse to believe in a God who does not know how to dance.’ Ang pagsayaw ay isang ekspresyon ng ligaya, ng laro, ng kalayaan ng katawan at diwa na mayroon pa ring sistema. Pero ako mismo ay literal na hindi marunong sumayaw.”

Words of wit-dom “...May dahilan kung bakit tinawag itong ‘commencement exercises.

In his commencement speech for the UP MassComm Class of 2012, Commencement dahil magsisimula pa lang kayo sa biyahe niyo sa buhay. Kaya Lourd delivers McNuggets of wisdom, through witticisms. Here are some heto na ang payo portion. Obvious naman: pero kailangan uling sabihin. excerpts: Mahalin mo ang ginagawa mo. Huwag magtatagal sa isang trabahong hindi “Hindi ko na siguro kailangang sabihin kung gaano kayo kapalad na mo gusto. Bakit mo naman gagawin yun? Dahil sa salapi? Darating din yan, mapabilang sa henerasyon. Nabubuhay kayo sa mundo na wala ka nang basta buhos mo lang ang kaya mo, kesyo indie film man yan o isang artikulo karapatang maging mangmang... tungkol sa pagkain o paglalabada.”

“Hindi ko na siguro kailangang sabihin kung “Basta, keep it real, ika nga ng Nagtatampisaw tayo sa baha ng impormasyon...” gaano kayo kapalad na mapabilang sa henerasyon. kasabihan. Minsan sa makabagong “Huwag niyo sanang sayangin ang sa virtual na realidad, minsan Nabubuhay kayo sa mundo na wala ka nang mundo, swerte. But speaking of swerte….Tumigil nakakalimutan natin kung saan na akong maniwala sa pagpaplano ng karapatang maging mangmang...Nagtatampisaw tayo nakatungtong, kung saan tayo buhay. Corny mang pakinggan, mas tayo sa baha ng impormasyon...” kumikilos...” naniniwala ako sa tadhana. Kung Sincerely unassuming yet totoo na talino at galing ang sekreto sa thoroughly convincing, Lourd tagumpay, dapat wala ako dito ngayon. Hindi ako ang pinakamahusay na certainly has soliloquy (and colloquy) down pat. George Carlin once said manunulat sa aming kolehiyo. At higit na mas marami ang mas magaling that “language is a tool for concealing the truth,” yet Lourd aims for the exact opposite. mag-isip kesa sa akin. May paborito akong kasabihan mula sa idolo kong nobelistang si Kurt Vonnegut. ‘Unannounced changes in life’s itinerary are like Lourd’s powers of persuasion can give Jordan Chase a run for his money. dancing lessons from God.’ Napakagandang ideya. Napaka-akmang metapora.

Yet, the way he views himself can be summed up in Jack Kerouac’s words: Dancing lesson.”

“I had nothing to offer anybody, except my own confusion.” u

balikbayan is a valentine to everything we love about the Philippines. The People, the places, the faces, the food, the music, the history, the culture, the adventure, the lifestyle, the moments, and the memories. Simply said, love of country is back in style.

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balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

35

TRIBUTE

Rodolfo Vera Quizon (a.k.a Dolphy) (July 25, 1928 - July 10, 2012)

The Divine

Comedian

By Nickee De Leon-Huld

36

balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

(EDITOR’S NOTE: This book review was published on October 14, 2008 in the Los Angeles Asian Journal Midweek Edition, the same year when Rodolfo Vera Quizon’s biography, Dolphy: Hindi Ko Ito Narating Mag-isa was launched, to coincide with his 80th birthday. Balikbayan Magazine is reprinting the article in this issue as our tribute to the King of Comedy, who passed away on July 10, 2012. Balikbayan Magazine extends its deepest condolences to Dolphy’s family, friends and loved ones. Rodolfo Vera Quizon and his legacy will remain in our hearts forever.)

TRIBUTE

“Sinasabing magaling daw sa drama ang mga comedian. Hindi ko alam kung bakit, wala akong teorya diyan. Basta from my end, naranasan ko na kasi ang lahat - hirap, gutom, ang mga anak na perwisyo’t may bisyo, ang ma-inlove, at ang mahiwalay. Napagdaanan ko nang lahat, kaya nasasakyan ko kapag ginagampanan ko na.” - Dolphy

Artwork by Kendrick Tan

T

here was no better way to celebrate and immortalize the 80 wonderful years of Dolphy’s life. Dolphy: Hindi Ko Ito Narating Mag-isa is the heartfelt unfolding of the life of Rodolfo Vera Quizon, better known onscreen as Dolphy, the King of Comedy.

The actor celebrated his 80th birthday on July 25 this year and son Eric Quizon, a noted actor and director himself, wanted to mark this milestone in his dad’s life and make it memorable by collaborating with Bibeth Orteza, in putting up a fitting biography.

From the title of the book itself, one would already prefigure that the story would be bigger than the subject. It’s probably inconceivable to think that a biography of someone as legendary and magnanimous as Dolphy could be so humbling and unassuming.

Yet, there has never been a more refreshing approach to storytelling. The beauty of Dolphy’s narrative lies in its candid simplicity and sincerity.

It’s also not surprising to find that the book teeming in self-deprecating, tongue-in-cheek humor. The last time I laughed this hard while reading (and seemed, every inch like a fool to unknowing bystanders) was when I was in high school, skimming through the pages of Pol Medina Jr.’s Pugad Baboy Series. Dolphy’s inherent wit and comic sensibilities are sharper than ever, and not even the written word could deter him from showcasing this God-given talent.

But beyond the funnies, Dolphy: Hindi Ko Ito Narating Mag-isa is a bold, poignant and compelling memoir that serves as Dolphy’s indelible and enduring legacy.

In a foreword by Randy David, a professor in the department of sociology in the University of the Philippines, he referred to the book as a script, a screenplay of Mang Dolphy’s life.

“Narito ang kaniyang iskrip—makulay, masalimuot, buong-buo, bukas.

Eto si Dolphy ng pelikula’t telebisyon, mapagbiro at masaya. Pero, sa likod nang komedyanteng singkit na nagpatawa sa halos tatlong henerasyon, narito rin ang isang taong matamang lumingon sa kanyang pinagdaanan, inuulit-ulit sa sarili ang mga aral na kanyang natutunan. Walang kimkim na galit o sama ng loob, walang panghihinayang, walang panghuhusga, walang pagyayabang.”

Dolphy: Hindi Ko Ito Narating Mag-isa is, indeed, a piece of history told by one of the most celebrated actors from an ordinary man’s perspective. Written in Tagalog, the book captures the flavor of a tumultuous era and the quintessence of being Dolphy—his humble beginnings, his love for family, his first sexual awakening, a hardy life during WWII, his colorful experiences as an OFW in Hong Kong, the numerous women in his life and the struggles he went through in fathering 18 children.

And it wasn’t only Dolphy that made this memoir robust and meaningful. Former wives and lovers, friends, colleagues, and of course, his children also shared their testimonials and encompassed Dolphy with their gratitude, love and support. Everyone he holds dear (even those who’ve been privy all these years) gave a piece of themselves in words and pictures.

As aptly put by Butch Dalisay, Palanca Hall of Fame awardee and UP Professor in English and Creative Writing: “I haven’t read a biography like this, ever, and the uncensored unmediated first-person accounts strike home with a power and a poignancy you’d be hard put to find in any screen drama.”

If Dolphy’s story would be translated into film (or perhaps, a telenovela), it would definitely be a project of epic proportions (and lots and lots of Kleenex).

And speaking of film, here’s what film director Peque Gallaga had to say about the book: “The delight that comes from reading this book is that it nails down a fascinating character who is all at once a baffling combination of grace and dignity, contrariness and mischievous rascality; of one blessed with a gift for careless irreverence and absurdity in the face of adversity, who triumphs over misfortunes and who accepts what can’t be changed. One is never sure if it is the portrait of Dolphy or the Filipino people. Ang problema lang sa libro, pagkatapos mong basahin ay parang gusto mo sana, mas mahaba pa ito.”

My sentiments, exactly. u balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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INDUSTRY

Ruben Nepales: The First Filipino to be Elected as Chairman of HFPA

By Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D.

O

n June 8, Ruben Viado Nepales was elected Chairman of the Board for the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA)—the organization behind the Golden Globes, reaching 250 million readers across the globe. He is the first Filipino and the first Asian to be elected as HFPA Chair—becoming a source of pride and joy among his kababayans in Los Angeles, and in the United States as a whole.

During the election, General Members first elected the officers and board members, who in turn elected Ruben V. Nepales as their new chair. “I never expected that by night’s end, I would also [be] elected chairman of the board. I am humbled by the honor,” said Ruben.

As chairman of the board, Ruben will be working closely with the incumbent president. Dr. Aida Takla-O’Reilly (who was reelected as HFPA’s president) had this to say: ”Since Ruben became a member, I noticed his intelligence, poise and calm demeanor and objectivity—qualities of a good leader. Ruben is an asset to the association. I look forward to working with him and the board as we tackle the challenges that lie ahead.”

Other elected HFPA officers are Jorge Camara as the new vicepresident and Ali Sar as treasurer. Elected Board members include Helen Hoehne, Yoram Kahana, Yukiko Nakajima, Lorenzo Soria and Dierk Sinderman (Alternate).

Dr. Takla-O’Reilly reported that HFPA has been able to give back $13 million in the last 17 years, through its grant programs in higher education fellowship and institutional support, professional training and mentoring, preserving culture and history of film, and cultural exchanges through film. Last year, HFPA granted $1,579,500 to 45 universities, institutional entities, organizations and theater projects.

More recently, HFPA gave $25,000 to UNICEF Philippines as relief efforts to children survivors of Typhoon Sendong. Darren Criss, the star in TV show Glee, received it on behalf of HFPA. Ruben and Janet Nepales delivered the HFPA’s donation personally to UNICEF Philippines.

Leadership is service to a constituency With reflective candor, Ruben shares his own view of moving from the margins to the center (both in his work and in his residence) and his future plans in this new role.

“We see it as good news that’s meant to be celebrated and shared.

This family [Nepales] seems to be blessed with genes in time management skills. The laundry may pile up occasionally but that is insignificant amid our drive to serve and pursue our respective dreams with passion, zeal and commitment,” Ruben said. “ When I arrived in LA for the first time as an immigrant in May 1985, my brother, who picked me up at the airport, said these very words to me as he drove close to the downtown area where they lived and where I would live: ‘Welcome to the ghetto.’ This was at a time when the neighborhood was rife with gangs. Our apartment

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Ruben V. Nepales Photo by Hydee Abrahan

was infested with cockroaches. So yes, we literally lived in the ghetto. The gleaming skyscrapers nearby looked like a magical yet forbidding place from my new immigrant perspective. I plunged headlong with positivity and determination. It was tough in the beginning, especially experiencing rejection after rejection when I was applying for jobs. And now, we’re back living in downtown, with a view of the ghetto where we lived in 1985. That area is now being gentrified of course, with a beautiful new urban park beside it. Still, it reminds me of my humble beginnings in Los Angeles, a city that many folks despise but one that I love and I am very grateful to,” Ruben added.

He shared that he was motivated to serve in HFPA’s board, in return for the blessings and opportunities that he received.

“Leadership is service to a constituency. Sharing my time and effort is the least I can do. Being a good listener is one of the most important leadership traits. Leadership does not mean you always have to be talking. One of the best compliments I received was from a distinguished colleague with many years of experience being a leader. One day he just said to us in a group, ‘When Ruben speaks, everybody listens because he does not have the compulsion to talk all the time.’”

On his plans for HFPA: “I will work closely with the President, the board and the members in these crucial times for the association as it continues to be involved in litigation. And in an age when journalism as a career is beset with all sorts of challenges, especially

INDUSTRY in these ever–changing technological times, I hope to seek more story opportunities for our members.”

breath of fresh air to us. The expectations and trust a group of international journalists has given to him in order to bring new ideas for the future of the association is big, and we are confident he won’t dissapoint. And another name [from] the Philippines is [a] Ruben’s doting family milestone in the history of Hollywood. Congratulations to him!”

Janet Nepales, Ruben’s loving and supportive better half John Davis, a former Hollywood producer said: “Ruben is a and also the first Filipina journalist in HFPA had this to say: seasoned journalist, who is still very much ‘in the game.’ Many “The groundbreaking election of Ruben, not only to the Board times, these positions go to stalwarts whose best work is long of Directors but as the Chairman of the Board, serves as an behind them. Ruben is still very active and visible member of inspiration to young, talented and ambitious Filipinos who also the working press corps. On a personal level, I know how proud aspire to make it in mainstream media and entertainment here in Ruben is of his active involvement in HFPA and how immensely Hollywood. This is the boy from Calasiao who wrote stories in his honored he must be to have won the vote of his contemporaries. notebooks and distributed these stories to his classmates to read.

The Filipino community should also realize what an incredible This is the young lad who despite of his humble beginnings broke coup this is. Out of all of the working entertainment press, all doors in Hollywood as the first Filipino to be the Chairman of over the world, a Fil-Am has taken the helm of this legendary the Board of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. The life organization. Bravo Ruben! Bravo!” story of Ruben is a good shining guide to Filipinos who make it Bessie Badilla said: “I have and remain deeply rooted, witnessed first hand how Sir humble, grounded, respectful “Leadership is service to a constituency. Sharing my time and thankful of what he has Ruben is highly respected by and effort is the least I can do. Being a good listener is one of the achieved. In fact, it is this not only his HFPA colleagues most important leadership traits. Leadership does not mean humility and gratefulness but the celebrities too! We you always have to be talking. One of the best compliments I that separates the great from all know the celebrities when the proud, the brilliant from we see them, the difference received was from a distinguished colleague with many years the smart, the loved from the is the celebrities know Ruben of experience being a leader. One day he just said to us in a popular.”

Nepales! I have seen the group, ‘When Ruben speaks, everybody listens because he does “Luckily, Ruben and I are likes of Rufus Sewell get up not have the compulsion to talk all the time.’” both sharing this journey and approach Sir Ruben to and we are, most of the exchange pleasantries…maybe time, together, experiencing life and history. As the first Filipina it is his God-given gift of making people warm-up to him making journalist in the HFPA, I am forever indebted to Ruben for paving them so relaxed they forget they are Hollywood celebrities for the the way. Since both of us are journalists, I completely understand moment.” the challenges he encounters as a writer. I see this election as At a birthday celebration, bottles of champagne piqued our Chairman of the Board as a victory for the Filipino people. My curiosity. When the news was shared by Ruben’s ‘extravagant in family is proud of him,” she added. passion’ wife Janet, we were very happy. Barriers broken, glass Ruben and Janet’s daughter Bianca, is equally proud of her ceiling shattered were some of our reflections. father’s major achievement. “I hope that my dad will be seen as a Enrique Dela Cruz quipped: “That really, really transcends the role model for aspiring Filipinos in media and entertainment. This ghetto.” role is trail-blazing in all sense of the word. My dad has literally Rocio Nuyda shared: “It felt like my son’s win. But do you really jumped into the fire when no one is willing to, and is blazing a trail wonder when he is such a good person?” for others to follow. I hear how political the world of entertainment Hydee Ursulino Abrahan had this to say: “I so look up to Ruben can be, so I am proud of my Dad for navigating through this Nepales because he never gave a limit on what to aim for himself. environment with nothing but respect and humility.”

He just did what he did to the best of his abilities and just moved “My parents have never placed their career as a burden on the forward and up but stayed grounded with his friends and relatives. family; instead, they have made their lives as journalists a source Such an inspiration!” of enhancement and lesson-learning for my sister and me. I grew up watching my parents talk to the most powerful people in Humble beginnings Hollywood and draw out in these actors, actresses, and directors Ruben’s love for film was honed watching movies in the town a connection to the Philippines. These moments helped me plaza as a young boy raised in Calasiao, Pangasinan. understand that we can find a personal connection to any person, In 2004, Ruben Nepales became HFPA’s first Filipino journalist regardless of where we came from and where we are now. This to be accepted in its 60 year plus history. Only up to five new members are accepted each year. To date, 88 members are part lesson has helped me approach my work as a teacher with a strong, of this presitigious organization representing 55 countries around open mind and heart, as I work with students from different the world. Ruben’ s works have gained him a following in the backgrounds as mine,” she further added.

Philippines, that his once-a-week column, “Only in Hollywood”, has now expanded to 156 issues a year in Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Reactions to Ruben’s election He is also a contributing editor of Balikbayan Magazine, a Wall Ruben’s election became the talk of his close family and friends, Street Journal representative in Asia and is being published by including his very supportive wife, Janet Nepales, and his two Asian Journal Publications, Inc. children, Bianca Nicole and Rafaella Angelica.

Ruben also successfully launched his first book, “My Filipino One of HFPA’s members viewed this newly-elected board Connection: The Philippines in Hollywood” in Makati, chair with enthusiasm. Mario Amaya, a member of HFPA said: (Philippines), Los Angeles and New York. u “Having Ruben as a Chairman of the board of the HFPA is a balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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ENTERTAINMENT

Apl.de.ap Takes You to the Philippines: A Celebration of Global Filipino Music

By Ruben V. Nepales

P

icture the Hollywood Bowl—one of the world’s most popular outdoor venues—packed with more than 12,000 spectators, most of them singing along to Aking Bituin (O Ilaw), the beloved Tagalog serenade.

That was the power of Apl.de.ap Takes You to the Philippines: A Celebration of Global Filipino Music—a night of many firsts, which was held on July 8 at the famed Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.

In one glorious evening, the hills around the Bowl reverberated for the first time with Filipino music (traditional serenades, Original Pilipino Music, even the Tinikling song) and modern hits composed and performed by talents of Filipino heritage.

From the strains of Doon Po Sa Amin (played on keyboards), the audience trickled into a rousing series of songs and dances that drew cheers and applause. The Bowl, which has hosted top acts from the Beatles to Placido Domingo, became home to Filipino artists for one shining, memorable night.

Apl.de.ap, with producer Ted Benito (who also directed Act 1), Rex Sampaga and Jennifer Paz, gathered an array of talents who captivated the predominantly Filipino crowd: Ogie Alcasid, Chi-Town Breakdancers, Culture Shock LA, Dessa, DJ E-Man, DJ Poet Name Life, Becca Godinez, Harana Kings with Florante Aguilar (who inspired the wonderful moment of “O Ilaw!” being robustly echoed by the audience), Kayamanan ng Lahi, Legaci, Martin Nievera, Jeremy Passion, Philippine Chamber SingersLos Angeles, Rondalla Club of Los Angeles, Sandwich, Nicole Scherzinger, We The Future, Tateng Katindig, Bob Shroder, Vince Reyes and Art Ocdamia.

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ApldeAp with the author, Ruben Nepales Photo By Andy Tecson

Lou Diamond Phillips and Vanessa Hudgens were the hosts for the evening, which also featured the humor of Jo Koy and a special appearance by boxing champion Nonito Donaire, who had just won a fight the previous night. He sang The Apl Song with Apl. de.ap himself. Will.i.am and taboo shared interesting anecdotes about Apl.de.ap in between their Black Eyed Peas numbers, with Scherzinger joining them in a song number of I Got a Feeling.

About a week before the concert (which was presented by the LA Phil as part of KCRW’s World Festival), Apl explained to Balikbayan Magazine how he got involved: “The Hollywood Bowl always features a different culture each year, and this year it was the Filipino culture thing. They contacted me to curate the show. I thought, this should feature harana, tinikling and kundiman.

I started contacting other Filipino artists. I wanted a combination of OPM and Fil-Am musicians.”

“It will be historic because there hasn’t been any Filipino music show at the Hollywood Bowl,” enthused the Pampanga native.

“The Bowl is a prestigious place to perform in. I hope this would be done annually.”

“Even I am looking forward to it,” said the hip-hop musician, record producer and member of the Black Eyed Peas, which has collected Grammys. He said he was especially looking forward to “the mixture of traditional tinikling and modern moves.”

Black Eyed Peas of course, has performed at the Bowl. “As a group and as an artist in LA, it was a big deal,” he said. “And now it’s a bigger deal because many Filipinos [were asked] to do it. It will be a great event.”

Apl.de.ap was so right about his final word. u

ENTERTAINMENT

A Showcase of Filipino Heritage at the Hollywood Bowl With Black Eyed Peas’ Apl.de.ap

By Christina M. Oriel

B

efore a crowd of nearly 13,000, prominent Filipino performers shared the Hollywood Bowl stage last July 8 as part of KCRW’s World Festival series.

Together with KCRW, Apl.de.ap, who rose to fame with the multi-Grammy Award winning group Black Eyed Peas, curated a purview of Filipino music. Co-hosted by actors Lou Diamond Philips and Vanessa Hudgens and comedian Jo Koy, the three-hour concert featured an array of talent—from traditional folk artists such as the Philippine Chamber Singers of Los Angeles and the Harana Kings to more contemporary acts like Apl.de.ap’s protégés, WeTheFutur3.

Known as Justin Bieber’s backup singers, Filipino-American R&B group Legaci performed three songs, two of which were original compositions. As they livened up the crowd, the night segued into the Original Pilipino Music portion with rock band Sandwich (who flew all the way from the Philippines to perform at the historic concert) Ogie Alcasid, Martin Nievera, Becca Godinez and Dessa.

After the intermission, Jo Koy got the crowd laughing with jokes aimed at Filipinos’ love for karaoke. The second half of the show began with the Filipino folk dance Tinikling, performed by the Kayamanan Ng Lahi. Then, the traditional movements were translated to a hip hop number by Fil-Am group Culture Shock LA. Apl.de.ap’s emergence onto the stage signaled the portion of the night everyone anticipated. With backing from Martin Nievera, Passion and the Philippine Chamber Singers, Apl.de.ap began his set with I’ll Take You to the Philippines, a song he recorded in 2009 for a campaign with the Philippine Department of Tourism. His track We Can Be Anything, highlighted his efforts to build schools and promote education in the Philippines with his self-named foundation.

Filipino boxer Nonito Donaire, Jr. (who won a match the night before) joined the stage to perform a duet of The Apl Song, which was featured in the Black Eyed Peas’s double platinum record Elephunk.

Apl.de.ap then donned a Barong Tagalog to perform his popular Filipino anthem, Bebot.

Fellow Black Eyed Peas members Will.i.Am and Taboo took the stage with former Pussycat Doll singer and Dancing with the Stars champion Nicole Scherzinger, who filled in for Fergie’s vocals. The group performed a five song set of their famous hits, including The Time (Dirty Bit) and Let’s Get it Started.

Will.i.am. listed the accomplishments of the group, including performing at the Super Bowl halftime show and the Queen’s 60th Jubilee. He recalled the group’s humble beginnings, thanks to community organizations that exist. One in particular that the front man recognized was “a special place called SIPA.” Filipino organization SIPA or the Search to Involve Pilipino Americans was where he, Apl. de.ap and Taboo would go to perform after getting kicked out of malls for dancing.

Photo by Hydee Abrahan

“Our first performance as the Black Eyed Peas in 1995 was at SIPA,” said the Black Eyed Peas frontman, who has been friends with Apl.de.ap since they were teenagers and has grown to love Filipino food and culture. The week prior, SIPA hosted its 40th Anniversary dinner and awarded Apl.de.ap with the Gintong Tulong Award for his philanthropic work in the Philippines.

“The only thing left for us to do is philanthropy. The next step is to use our music to give back to the community,” the frontman told the crowd.

The group dedicated Where is the Love, the song that gained them recognition, to SIPA, Apl.de.ap’s adoptive father and other philanthropic efforts that brought the members together to become internationallyrenowned artists. Will.i.am and Taboo both spoke about the Filipino culture that Apl.de.ap has exposed them to throughout the years and carries to whichever country they visit during a tour.

“I want to thank the Black Eyed Peas for allowing me to spread my Filipino culture and put my songs [such as The Apl Song and Bebot] on our CDs,” said Apl.de.ap.

As the night drew to a close, the Black Eyed Peas was joined by all of the performers for I Gotta Feeling, which brought the crowd to its feet. The repetitive lyric of the finale song, “Tonight’s gonna be a good night,” held true, with a lasting impact on the Filipino community that the orchestrated event created. u balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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ENTERTAINMENT

How These Filipinos Made Broadway Their Home

(Left to right) Mel Maghuyop, Joanne Javien, JP Moraga, Albert Guerzon, Catherine Rcafort, Lydia Gaston, Jose Llana, Orville Mendoza, Billy Bustamante, Aaron J. Albano and Adam Jacobs. Photo by Troi and Mapet Santos

By Momar G. Visaya

A

sk any theater aficionado if he or she knows any Filipino performer on Broadway and chances are, you will get “Lea Salonga” as a response. Such is Lea’s effect on the theater community, particularly when she broke the proverbial glass ceiling when she did Miss Saigon and won an unprecedented Tony Award, the first Filipino artist to do so.

Lea continued to blaze the trail, performing roles traditionally meant for Caucasian actors in Les Miserables and going back to her Asian roots, via a revival of Flower Drum Song. This year, if plans don’t miscarry, she will be back on Broadway with the much-awaited Allegiance, which will pair her off with George Takei.

The past few seasons on Broadway has seen an increased presence of Filipino-American performers in various musicals. There were even shows which had three Filipinos in the cast (Les Miserables and Mamma Mia) at a certain point.

Despite the perceived visibility of Filipino-Americans on Broadway, a recent report by the Asian American Performers Action Coalition shows that the number of Asian-Americans cast in productions on Broadway and by the 16 largest not-for-profit theaters in the city is dropping.

According to the report, though Asian-Americans comprise 12.9 percent of New York City, Asian-American actors accounted for only 1.6 percent of available roles in new productions on Broadway, 3.2% of roles at nonprofit companies and 2.3of the roles industry-wide.

Unfortunately, last June, two major musicals (with Filipino performers featured in the cast) came to an end: Godspell and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert; three, actually, if we include How to Succeed in Business (Without Really Trying) where Fil-Am actor Darren Criss took over the role of J. Pierrepoint Fitch from Daniel Radcliffe.

Here is a closer look at some Filipino-American performers on Broadway, whether they just made their debut or have been a part of a multitude of ensembles.

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Lea Salonga during the Suites by Sondheim.

Photo by Troi Santos

ENTERTAINMENT

Anna Maria Perez de Tagle

Godspell (Anna Maria Perez de Tagle and George Salazar) Godspell had two Filipino-Americans in its small cast of ten: Anna Maria Perez de Tagle and George Salazar, who both made their Broadway debuts through this musical, which ran for about nine months.

Anna Maria Perez de Tagle Anna Maria’s journey to the Broadway stage was made possible by her stint in Disney, doing teeny-bopper roles in the sleeper hits such as Hannah Montana and Camp Rock.

Godspell was a “dream come true” for her, since it has always been her goal to perform on the Great White Way. “It has always been my dream (to be on Broadway), and this is a dream come true.

I’m living in New York now,” Anna Maria told us last year, when she found out she bagged a role on the musical’s revival. “I always had high regard and respect for people on the big stage because you always have to try your utmost best the first time, there are no second takes unlike film and TV.” It is an experience that Anna Maria, the youngest in the cast at 21 years old, relishes with pride and glee.

“I couldn’t ask for a better experience. We have a very rigorous rehearsal process and it is so worth it. I am loving every minute of it. I am so thankful. I am so blessed,” she said, still almost unbelieving of her luck to be onstage, on Broadway no less.

It was not just sheer luck that brought her here. In fact, credit her numerous talents— she’s a rare triple threat—as the reasons why she is where she is right now.

She had dabbled on stage in regional productions of The King and I, Cinderella, The Wiz, and lately had appeared on the Disney Channel’s series Hannah Montana, and in such films as Fame and Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam. Last year, she toured with the Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato.

Her co-stars are in awe of the FilipinaAmerican talent.

“I love her. We just met recently but I actually saw her perform in Camp Rock on tour. One of my best friends is a guitarist for that tour. It was exciting to see her then, and now we’re friends. She’s amazing and lovely.

She’s beautiful and her voice is awesome. She is a pro,” said lead actor Hunter Parrish, who starred on Weeds and Spring Awakening and played the role of Jesus Christ on Godspell.

For Telly Leung (Wes [one of the Warblers] on Glee), working with Anna Maria and George has been quite an experience.

“They are amazing. I’m so excited to be working with them on their Broadway debut. There are three Asians on this cast and I’m very proud of that and I know that our director is very proud of that as well,” he said.

“I’m Chinese but I am an honorary Filipino because I have a lot of Filipino friends who I have worked with in the past like Lea Salonga for Flower Drum Song and Paolo Montalban for Flower Drum Song,” Telly added.

George Salazar For Filipino-Ecuadorian-American George Leongson Salazar, doing Godspell and working with the cast was a breeze, especially since most of them developed a beautiful working relationship. Maybe it helped that theirs is a small cast and their bonding through most of the scenes was inevitable.

Born to an Ecuadorian dad and a Filipina mom (from Taytay, Rizal), the 25-year-old George is beyond excited to be making his Broadway debut.

“I feel so incredibly blessed and grateful.

The cast is amazing. Anna Maria is incredible.

Just to be a part of this ensemble is pretty insane,” a visibly high-strung and excited George told us during an interview.

George has visited the Philippines twice (“I love it there,” he remarked.). He was born in Staten Island and grew up in Orlando, Florida where his parents are still based. He moved to New York three years ago to pursue a career on Broadway.

He finished the Spring Awakening national tour last May and his manager got him his first audition for Godspell.

“It was a three-month process and I got called back about five times. I joke that it was like a bad relationship. It was a very long process but totally worth it. I have the best job in the world,” he shared.

George’s mom is a nurse back in Orlando.

When he found out that he was officially a part of the cast, he called his mom—who was then with a patient—to deliver the news.

“I’ve never heard her scream that loud. If it’s possible, she’s more excited than I am,” he said.

George’s own Broadway path brought him from being a biology major (“I was going to be a doctor but theater came into my life and swept me off my feet,” he said) to waiting tables and serving drinks and dinner at the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. in Times Square.

That was why when he received that alltoo-important phone call announcing that he got the part, he lost it.

“I was just overcome with emotions. I cried. I’m such a crier. I was a sweaty, crying mess,” he said, laughing at the thought of how insanely emotional he was that day.

The efforts and sacrifices both stars have made plus their training on musical theater, television and film have all led to this: the realization of their dreams on Broadway.

Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (J. Elaine Marcos) J. Elaine Marcos is one of the funniest women on Broadway. Watching her on Priscilla was definitely a hoot as she singlehandedly outshines her cast members by delivering almost over-the-top performances.

She treads the situation lightly as a little more oomph and she’d be accused of over-acting.

Every night for more than a year, J. Elaine (a “very distant relative” of the Marcoses, according to her) delivered on the stage of The Palace Theatre the spiciest and crunchiest Tagalog curse there is.

There was a number of Filipinos in the audience when we watched the musical and biases aside, J. Elaine had us in stitches.

The role of Cynthia (which may be a bit caricature-like) fit her to a T. Her timing was perfect and her movements were just incredibly funny. Plus, she gets to deliver the crispiest Filipino curse ever. Yes, on a Broadway stage, every single night.

“After I say that, I get a sense of how many Filipinos are in the audience or how many of them have heard the phrase or are familiar with the phrase because they have Filipino friends. I have a blast every time,” she says laughing.

As a performer, she knows that there’s a fine line between over the top and over-

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ENTERTAINMENT acting, between hilarious and irritating, and that’s the line she treads in every performance.

For ably doing so, she gets rewarded with nice words and accolades and she is grateful when people tag her as a scene-stealer.

Born in Burlington, Ontario (‘Yes! I’m Canadian,’ she remarks), Marcos grew up in this neighborhood, which is roughly about an eight to nine-hour drive from Toronto.

Growing up, she did not have a lot of Asian neighbors, much more Filipinos. They would trek to Scarborough or Mississauga to be with relatives.

“It wasn’t until I did Miss Saigon did I really get to embrace my being a Filipino.

In high school, I didn’t even think of anyone else being different. We were all just kids,” she says.

J. Elaine made her Broadway debut via Miss Saigon when she was about 20 years old.

She studied at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York and she was working at Disney World at that time when Broadway called.

Her audition process took about four years on and off, so when she got the call, she was beyond ecstatic. She joined the cast during the tail-end of Miss Saigon’s fabled run on Broadway, becoming a part of the musical’s last year and a half on the stage.

The spitfire performer will next be seen this fall as Lily St. Regis in the Broadway revival of Annie. She was previously seen on the Broadway stage as Imelda Marcos on The Wedding Singer, as Yvonne on Miss Saigon, as Mme Liang on Flower Drum Song and as Connie Wong on A Chorus Line. She has also ventured into TV and film, appearing on shows 30 Rock, Rescue Me and the film Morning Glory.

Asked what the best part of her job is, J. Elaine rattled off her reasons one by one.

“The highs of being silly, happy and fun.

The highs of going to an audition and being nervous and scared at the same time. Just performing and having that blood rushing through your veins. There are a lot of lows but there are lots of highs as well,” she says.

For now, these highs J. Elaine mentioned are the reasons why she can’t imagine herself doing anything else. These are also the same reasons why she wakes up with a big smile every single day because for her, going to the theater is not work, it’s her lifestyle.

Mamma Mia! (Catherine Ricafort, Albert Guerzon, Gerard Salvador) About three blocks away from Godspell’s Circle-in-the-Square Theater is The Winter Garden Theater, home of Mamma Mia!

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Al Guerzon (second from right, standing) in Mamma Mia

Catherine Ricafort Here, three Filipino-American actors at one point were performing alongside each other: Catherine Ricafort, Albert Guerzon and Gerard Salvador. Last June, Guerzon left the cast to join the ensemble of Ghost, The Musical.

Catherine was fresh from the national tour of A Chorus Line when the opportunity to do a TV show beckoned. This was The Sing-Off (Season 2), where she and her friends from the University of Southern California (known as “The Backbeats”) competed against the best in the business. They did not win the grand prize but they won the recognition and adulation from the show’s loyal fans.

Then arrived the opportunity to audition for a role on Mamma Mia, which Catherine took. She got the role as part of the ensemble and a few months later, she took over the role of Ali, one of the lead’s best friends.

We first took note of her when she bagged the coveted role of Connie in the first national tour of A Chorus Line, and now on Broadway, Catherine is slowly realizing her dreams.

Catherine has a B.S. Industrial and Systems Engineering degree from the University of Southern California, where she graduated cum laude as a Presidential and Renaissance Scholar, served as Music Ministry Director for the USC Catholic Center, and conducted research in runway incursions and air traffic control for the Viterbi School of Engineering.

A big fan of ABBA’s music, Catherine is ecstatic to be a part of the Mamma Mia family.

“For my 18th birthday and debutante’s ball, my mother and aunts surprised me with

balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

Catherine Ricafort

their own special performance of Dancing Queen by ABBA! Having grown up listening to the Mamma Mia soundtrack with my family who are huge fans of the show, it was really special to see my parents in the audience on my Broadway opening night, once again singing Dancing Queen years later.

I felt really proud to represent their endless, loving support of me onstage that night,” she shared.

Albert Guerzon As a performer, Albert lists having his family watch him onstage among his memorable moments.

“My Broadway debut is definitely a memorable moment I will never forget. One

ENTERTAINMENT

Left to right (sitting) Lydia Gaston, Orville Mendoza, Adam Jacobs, Jose Llana, Joanne Javien L-R (standing) Marc de la Cruz Mel Maghuyop, Billy Bustamante, Aaron J. Albano, JP Moraga.

Photo by Troi and Mapet Santos

of my best friends found a front row ticket for my mom on Craigslist. She sat directly behind our conductor. She didn’t really understand the story because she was just looking for me in every scene,” Albert said.

He also feels lucky to have worked with dance legend Twyla Tharp.

“Her work ethic has inspired me to never stop,” he said.

Gerard Salvador Gerard grew up in New York City and as a kid, he remembers being brought to the theatre, ballet, classical performances.

“I remember being taken to Annie, Barnum and A Chorus Line among others. So I was determined to be one of those performers I saw up there,” he said.

Gerard attended the High School of Performing Arts and Music & Art on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, started appearing in several television projects that were filming in the New York area, and then landed at the NYU’s Tisch School of Arts studying drama.

“Just like most people I worked odd end jobs while auditioning and then Mamma Mia came along. I was cast in the national tour where I played the role of Pepper until the show decided to bring me in to the Broadway company,” he added.

Gerard is happy to be sharing the stage every performance with fellow FilipinoAmerican actors, and he thanks the producers for being color-blind in their casting.

“It’s certainly not a surprise that there are

three Filipinos in the current Broadway cast.

Most shows will not even put more than one Asian-American in their cast, be it a Filipino and/or a Korean. But Mamma Mia has always been open in that respect,” he said.

Lion King (Adam Jacobs) Meanwhile on 42nd Street, the huge billboards of Disney shows compete with the klieg lights of other Broadway shows.

One of the main performers of Lion King is Adam Jacobs, a Filipino-American actor who originally hails from California. He essays the role of Simba.

Adam took over the role of Simba around August 2011 after doing the role for 10 months with the touring company.

He auditioned for Simba while he was in college and auditioned five more times after that.

“I didn’t get it then but they gave me notes each time and I got a little better,” Adam shared.

For Adam, it was New York or bust.

“I’m happy that I was able to go on tour and play the role, I was just astounded to get the call to do it. Even now, I am still excited to play the role. I am living the dream. That was the goal when I went to school, I wanted to live in New York on work on Broadway, and now I’m doing it,” he says.

Juggling his crazy schedule has become an art for him. Not that he is complaining because he loves the show and it is a dream role that he had always wanted to do.

With eight shows a week in a very

physically demanding show, Adam makes sure to take care of his voice and his body by eating right and being healthy.

Slowly, everything began to sink in. He is back in New York doing what he loves.

He is also reconnecting with his roots, and his community that he considers close to his heart.

“Being on Broadway, I guess it has sunk in. I’m playing this big role and I feel it when I come off the stage and I see the audience and I meet them face to face and it impacts me there. When I’m onstage, I don’t see the audience,” he says.

Adam made his Broadway debut in Les Miserables a few years back, essaying the role of Marcus. This particular cast was yet another reason for the Filipino-American community to rejoice as Jacobs shared the limelight and the lead roles with Lea Salonga who was Fantine and Ali Ewoldt who performed the role of Cossette.

Even then President Gloria Arroyo made sure to catch a performance of this cast when she visited New York in 2009. The cast even gave the president and her entourage a backstage tour.

Newsies (Aaron Albano) Next block from Lion King is 2012’s sleeper hit, Newsies. Disney decided to make one of its biggest film flops into a musical and he result is an exhilarating show that has been filling the theater to the rafters since the day they opened.

One of the cast members is Aaron Albano, who was on his fifth Broadway show. He was also in the chorus of Mary Poppins, Bombay Dreams, Wicked and A Chorus Line. He was awarded the iconic gypsy robe by the Actors Equity Association, a tradition that has been ongoing on Broadway for the past 60 years, at the opening night of Newsies last March 29, 2012.

“The robe is, in some ways, the performer’s ‘amazing technicolor dreamcoat.’ The gypsy, although a breed of performer not easily categorized, is usually a chorus member known in part for his or her dedication, professionalism and seasoned performing career,” according to an article by Leanne Boepple explaining the meaning of the gypsy robe.

“The recipient of the robe is a member of the cast who embodies the qualities of the Broadway gypsy, and has appeared in the most Broadway shows (i.e., the most Broadway chorus credits). Everyone can guess at who the honoree will be, but no one knows until a name is announced by the former recipient,” the article added. u

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EVENTS

HOUNSLOW, LONDON—A massive crowd of Filipinos (totaling around 120,000) gathered at one of the largest parks situated in West London from June 30 to July 1, 2012. Lampton Park became the focal point of the 28th Barrio Fiesta sa London, where our fellow Filipinos enjoyed a weekend of fun, food, entertainment and recreation.

The two-day celebration culminated in various performances by local artists and seasoned performers. ABS-CBN Kapamilya stars Gerald Anderson, Angelica Panganiban, Jed Madela and Giselle Sanchez were featured during the Saturday show, while Christine Reyes and Jericho Rosales were added to the Sunday show line-up.

ABS-CBN Kapamilya stars were undeniably huge crowd-drawers for Filipinos all over London and its immediate environs.

The 28th Barrio Fiesta sa London event was organized by The Philippine Centre in collaboration with The Filipino Channel (TFC).

The partnership aimed to provide a program of activities that will bring together Filipinos in the United Kingdom and foster a spirit of camaraderie and unity.

The Balikbayan Magazine Team was there to distribute magazines and assist in the Department of Tourism’s campaign “Its More Fun in the Philippines,” as well as the Pinoy Homecoming Program. u balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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Dental Visits are More Fun in the

Philippines

A

smile is a universal language, so they say. And when it comes to the greatest smiles in the world, nothing could beat the warm, genuine smiles of the Filipinos.

NU.U Asia Cosmetic Dentistry (one of the country’s leading names in cosmetic dentistry) gives you five reasons why dental visits and oral hygiene are definitely more fun in the Philippines.

NU.U Asia The Fort Branch Photo by Jeffrey Bulanadi

NU.U Asia’s dentists Drs. Carlito Librando, Nelda Valencia Eufemio, and Mia Rosette Valencia Angeles

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Filipino doctors, world-class expertise NU.U Asia’s dentists: Drs. Nelda Valencia Eufemio, Mia Rosette Valencia Angeles, and Carlito Librando, have undergone several dental trainings with local and international intuitions. “We are always abroad to keep ourselves updated with the latest technology that we can apply in our dental practice,” says Dr. Eufemio. NU.U Asia’s dentists commit themselves to continuous dental education around the world, ensuring that the clinic is up-to-date with the latest dental procedures.

ZOOM! Teeth Whitening Equipment Photo by Jeffrey Bulanadi

World’s latest form of anaesthesia applicator—the revolutionary Wand Plus Photo by Jeffrey Bulanadi.

Luxurious dental clinics Both NU.U Asia’s The Fort and Greenhills branches exude the modern and chic ambiance that most dental clinics in Manila are still trying to nail down. The combination of dark wood plus clean, white surfaces underlines the luxurious comfort the clinic is famous for.

Cosmetic Dentistry at its Finest Using the latest equipment in dental technology, NU.U Asia offers the best dental cosmetic treatments such as Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Cosmetic Bonding, Gum Re-contouring, Orthodontics, General Dentistry, and Invisalign treatment or “invisible braces.” The clinic pioneered the use of the revolutionary Wand Plus (the most modern anesthesia applicator) in the Philippines.

“Patients can be assured that [the service] they’ll be getting is of premium quality,” says Dr. Angeles. “All materials used at our center are of supreme type, making our work truly world-class and unmatched.”

Your dentist, your best friend Gone are days when a trip to your dentist feels as gruelling as your college entrance exam. Your friendly, neighborhood dentists from NU.U. Asia will not just take care for your oral health, but will also be your friends for life. “[Our patients] would often come back to see us not for a dental appointment but just to chitchat and catch up on each other’s lives, thus making our practice more worthwhile,” Dr. Angeles shares. u NU.U Asia Greenhills Branch Photo by Jeffrey Bulanadi

(NU.U Asia is planning to open its third branch in Quezon City this year. Interested parties who wish to have their treatments or check-ups at the Greenhills branch could call + 63 2 7270001 local 253 to set an appointment. Meanwhile, for those who wish to have appointments at NU. U Asia’s The Fort branch, you may call any of the three telephone numbers: + 63 2 8563641, +63 2 5023060, and +63 2 8465013.) balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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ABROAD, IN THE PHILIPPINES

My Second Home: Why I Hold the Philippines Close to my Heart

By Chris M. Bledsoe

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have visited different places around the world—London, Ireland, Australia, Amsterdam, Mexico—but never has a place touched my heart so much like the Philippines.

While I agree with many foreigners that what makes the country special is the beautiful beaches and how their dollars go so far, I firmly believe that the Philippines’ greatest assets are its history and people.

My interest in visiting the Philippines came way before I met my wife. The first time was in 2008, and I immediately fell in love with the culture. I went back in 2010, this time with my wife. Then just last April, we were back again in the Philippines and loved every minute of it.

Although many have persuaded us not to go during the summer season, our recent trip to the Philippines was planned accordingly.

I wanted to immerse myself into World War II history and make sure that we would be in Bataan by April 9th—the date when the country commemorates Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor).

At first, my wife and her brother thought that I was crazy for having the idea of driving and following the Bataan Death March markers from Mariveles, Bataan, to Camp O’Donnell in Capas,

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ABROAD, IN THE PHILIPPINES Tarlac (you should have been there when I told them I was initially thinking of walking, instead of just passing through).

Yet, after hundreds of miles, hours on the road, restaurant stops (my favorites still being Jollibee and Max’s) and counting the number of Burger Machine stands (my brother-in-law’s favorite), bathroom breaks and asking for directions, we all learned a lot about history.

The most memorable moment, however, was when we finally found the Surrender Site Marker inside the Balanga Elementary School grounds in Balanga, Bataan, on April 9—the same day when Major Gen. Edward P. King, Jr. and his party signed the documents for the surrender of the American forces to the Japanese.

We tried looking for the historical site the day before (April 8), but couldn’t figure out how to get in the school grounds, since the gates were locked (being that it was a Sunday) and classes were out for the summer.

The following day, we decided to give it another shot. After waving to the school guard non-stop through the closed gates, they let us in.

Aside from Bataan and Tarlac, we stayed overnight in Corregidor, visited the American Cemetery in Fort Bonifacio and went to Puerto Princesa to see the Palawan Massacre site, the place where American soldiers were burned alive by the Japanese during WWII. Many of my American friends, most of

who have never been to the Philippines, often ask me why I love going back. Aside from the obvious reason that my wife is Filipina, I tell them that it is the rich history of the country that has lured me to it.

The Philippines has a very interesting history of fighting for freedom—against Spain, the United States and the Japanese—and that determination to achieve independence tells a lot about the kind of people they are.

I do agree that the Philippines has many beautiful spots that tourists will surely fall in love with. I, for one, fell in love with El Nido, Palawan, during my second trip and for a moment (of euphoria plus craziness) had this idea of retiring on the island.

However, I wish that the Philippine Department of Tourism would promote the country’s history too, rather than just focusing on its sights. Sadly, during our Bataan trip, we saw how deteriorated most of the markers are. Also, most Filipinos, especially the younger generation, have little or no knowledge about their past.

Hours before flying back to the United States, my wife and I were able to meet with Leslie Murray, First Vice President of the Filipino-American Memorial Endowment, Inc. (FAME) and Managing Editor of the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, Inc. (AmCham Philippines). FAME is the organization that takes care of all historical markers and sites, including the Death March markers, and works closely with the Corregidor Foundation. We all agreed that only a number of Filipinos know their history, and that politics gets in the way of educating people about it.

In spite of this, Leslie has stayed in the Philippines for decades. She was a civilian exPOW (prisoner of war) during WWII and was only two or three years old when she and her family were interned at the University of Santo Tomas.

Yes, it’s hot, humid, traffic is bad and there are places that are deemed unsafe for tourists and locals; but every

country in the world has its good and bad sides. In fact, I feel safer walking in Makati than in our old neighborhood in Oakland.

For the meantime, we are touching base with the Bay Area Civilians Ex-POW (BACE-POW), a group of American civilian ex-Prisoners of War in the Philippines. I also e-mail Leslie to get updates on FAME. Now back in San Francisco, my wife and I would relax on our balcony, sipping our teas and would talk about our recent trip. “We both miss the Philippines and are already planning to go back in 2014, hoping that our schedule will allow it.”

For now, we look forward to our next trip to my second home, the Philippines. u

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TRENDS

Dita

Fashion With a

Sandico-Ong: Conscience

By Kristine Bernadeth T. Manaog

Solo Wrap with Bamboo Print Design and Quant Brooch

“

Dita Sandico -Ong

[I] probably will not be a model who wears the

clothes [on] the runway. That’s what I said when I was young whenever my mother brings me to watch the fashion shows. Then, I’ll see the designer, the last person who receives all the applause after the show. I told myself, I want to be the fashion designer.

”

I want to be the person who do the final bow.

~ Dita Sandico-Ong

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Hikina with Bamboo Print Design

proud Filipino designer, wrap artist and advocate of sustainable fashion, Dita Sandico-Ong has been in the ethical fashion business for 26 years—promoting Filipino fashion, while helping poor communities by giving them sustainable

livelihood.

Having been born into a family who has been in the fashion industry for generations, it came natural for Dita to understand the substance, identity and creativity of fashion collections.

“I am actually representing the third generation who has the interest in fashion,” Sandico-Ong said. “My mom always brings me to fashion shows even when I was young. My grandmother was one of the [pioneers] in the industry, through the C.O.D. Department Store. It is in my blood, I guess.”

A graduate of Fashion Merchandising in Tobe-Coburn School in New York, Sandico-Ong reminisced that her first customers were actually the family members. “I design and make clothes [or gowns] for them and, eventually, people are coming to me to create clothes for them. [My relatives] did the advertisement and promotions for me,” she shared.

TRENDS

DITASANDICO-ONG

Mariposa Wrap with MOP accessories

The DSO Fashion For Sandico-Ong, fashion is always evolving, changing and moving forward “back to our roots.” This definition puts her name on top of the fashion pedestal. Her works—simple, elegant and perpetual—are not just about being trendy. Her creations can probably last a lifetime, while maintaining its original shape and color.

“Sometimes, people will go to me and say that their dress is my creation [that] I made for them a long time [ago]. I don’t remember some of it, but whenever people tell that to me, it is a confirmation that I’m doing the right thing,” she explained.

The Sandico-Ong fashion, if described in just one word, is timeless— like a piece of art you can buy today and can still appreciate in the future. A piece that can be hidden in your dresser and still look fabulous without a slight change on its quality.

A wrap artist, Sandico-Ong has mastered the creation of wraps in varying color and style. “Everytime I come up with new collection, the additional design or accessories on that collection is applicable to my previous design. And that is how my designs are.

I just keep on adding something new without losing the base or the identity, ” Sandico-Ong said.

Mori Wrap with Bamboo Print Design

Her creation mirrors the good old filipinianas. The clothes she makes are, more or less, a result of her reinvented filipiniana that is more minimal.

An advocate of sustainability, Sandico-Ong only uses indigenous materials like the piña, banana fiber and pinalino, a combination of piña fiber and irish linen. Though the fabrics are not easy to deal with, Sandico-Ong sees the difficulty of the fabric as an advantage and an opportunity to make use of it.

Its different texture and shape give her label an identity that is unique and not easy to find. It became her signature trademark, like the Le Smoking suit of YSL and pleated creations of Issey Miyake, which she both admired.

“I look up to the Japanese market because their fashion is very Asian.

Having said that, Issey Miyake is an inspiration. His creation looks [as] if you don’t know how one can wear it but it is wearable and he can get away with it. It is simple and comfortable, and very close to their culture. On the other hand, I also do admire YSL for his global inf luence,” Sandico-Ong shared.

The DSO Philosophy Most of the clothes by SandicoOng are ready to wear and can be bought off the rack. For clients who

want customized designs, a month’s preparation is enough. “We already have design templates where my customers can choose from, since there are styles that [don’t] suit the fabrics I [use],” Sandico-Ong said.

The fabrics that Sandico-Ong uses are weaved by the Mangyans (the umbrella term for the indigenous groups in Southern Luzon), who keep the tradition alive. According to her, the weavers are mostly Mangyan elders, since the younger generation would rather explore other things, neglecting the dying tradition.

“You see, these people weave as part of their culture and you have to teach them discipline and help them through the things they are familiar with. You take care of them and give them livelihood.

This what makes a benevolent fashion,” said Sandico-Ong. At the same time, this is what Sandico-Ong wants to share with everyone: Fashion is not just about clothes. It is what it is underneath, what it is made of, what it identifies. It is not a shallow subject because it is never just about dressing up and looking good. It is being confident and being conscious of what it takes to make a garment, understanding how difficult it is to weave, to create a fabric. For her, it is creating “fashion with a conscience.”

“There are so many fashion designers out there but I feel that they should go back to the basic, which is the fabric.

We have to make use of what we have, to identify ourselves in the global market,” she said. When asked about her message to aspiring designers who are dreaming to make their mark on the industry, she simply encourages them to realize who they are.

And that’s what makes Dita SandicoOng more than just a fashion designer, but more so, a true artist. She continues to carry the Filipino identity through her collections, the most important element that most designers today seem to neglect. u

Dita Sandico-Ong’s boutique is located at 35 Wilson Street, Greenhills, San Juan.

She also has a boutique in Rustan’s, Resorts World and Asian Society Store at New York. You can also view her collections online at http://www.dsowrapartiste.com

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MEMOIRS OF A BALIKBAYAN

A Stranger in My Own Country

By Malou Liwanag-Bledsoe

T

he first time I traveled out of the Philippines was in 1994 or 1995. My sister, who was sending me to school, was so excited to find out that I didn’t fail any subjects in my freshman year. She whisked me away to Hong Kong before the British turned it over to China. I loved every minute of it, although I became my mom’s baggage lady.

In 2003, I spent half of the year traveling to a number of countries in Asia, working as a Regional Project Coordinator for a company which published a number of coffee table books for the ASEAN. I walked around the shops in Singapore, ate at the outdoor restaurants in Malaysia and traversed the temples of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

People seem to see me as a person who has much to share about her travels, as well as her own country. Unfortunately, I do not. It took some thousand miles away and an American—my husband— to make me realize that I was a stranger in my own land.

I was born and raised in the Philippines, until I moved to the United States in 2007. But I have never traveled outside of Luzon.

The farthest I had been up north is Baguio and Quezon province in the south. I left my country, not knowing what I was going to miss.

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Two and a half years later (in 2010) I was on a plane going back to Manila. My husband had planned everything—a long drive to Tarlac, an overnight’s stay in Corregidor Island, trips to Boracay and El Nido, Palawan. It was then that I realized that I have not seen nor experienced much of the Philippines and its culture.

Last April, we were bound for the Philippines again.

This time, we were driving through Bataan, Pampanga and Tarlac, spending another night on Corregidor Island and a few days in Boracay, and making a last stop in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

With every place that we traveled through, I tried my best to immerse myself in the experience. It opened my eyes to the truth—that it is possible for others like me, who were born and raised in the Philippines, to become a stranger in their own land.

My husband and I have been in awe of the Philippines since our first trip in 2010—its natural beauty, the culture, the people—and, yes, even the traffic and smog.

It’s a love-hate relationship that I am sure will continue on. In fact, we see the Philippines as one of our top five places to retire.

MEMOIRS OF A BALIKBAYAN

It won’t be anytime soon though.

However, during the cold, foggy nights in San Francisco, we often talk about the warm, sunny days at the beaches of El Nido or Boracay—while my husband was drinking cold San Miguel Beer and while I was enjoying my mango shake.

Then we snap back to reality.

Some people look at us in bewilderment when we tell them about our plans to retire in the Philippines. Don’t get me wrong, our life here in the United States is relatively happy, considering that the economy is not going well as we hope it would. But I, for one, realized that I still have so many things to learn about the Philippines—be it a place in Luzon, Visayas or Mindanao, or just merely talking to people.

There are 7,107 (yes, depending on the tide) islands, 92 million people (as of 2011), 175 individual languages or dialects and a multitude of cultures in the Philippines. It is a world of its own, one that I haven’t had the chance to see in its entirety.

But it’s never too late. Although I know we won’t be able to go to all of them, the possibilities are endless. The Philippines is no longer a stranger to me—because I know it will always welcome me back as its new friend. u

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EVENTS

Pinoy Homecoming.

More Fun in the

Philippines

By Jane Francis S. Quinabo Photos by Nicole Marie Alvaro and Andy Edralin

T

he 7th Ambassadors, Consuls General, and Tourism Directors Tour to the Philippines is all about a Balikbayan homecoming. Delegates from North America and nearby areas congregate in the Philippines to celebrate and remember the best things about being Filipino.

This year’s group consisted of around 400 participants from Guam, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Washington DC, Saipan, Ottawa, Vancouver, Edmonton and, with the biggest team, from Honolulu, Hawaii. Balikbayans and their non-Filipino friends and families who joined them for this tour are in for a great adventure under the new tourism campaign, “It’s more fun in the Philippines” Participants started arriving in the country aboard various airlines as early as July 9, 2012, Monday, touching down at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminals 1 and 2. Organizers provided representatives at the airport to offer assistance at customs and immigration. Then, guests were transferred to Dusit Thani Hotel by a shuttle bus.

On July 11, Wednesday, the homecoming kicked off through a mini-bazaar held at the Dusit Grand Ballroom which opened at 6am. The contingent was given a choice between attending a special tour or an immersion program. For that day, the special CBN’s Show Time!), Tech and Business Tour, and Visita Iglesia, a tour designated was Corregidor, a nostalgic island that used to church-hopping activity that is usually done by Filipinos during defend the entrance to Manila Bay. The island is reinforced with the Lenten season. After lunch, participants can join the Running ammunition magazines and coastal artillery as protection against Tour of Manila and Makati Highlights or the Ayala Museum enemy warships.

Tour.

Other options for that day’s morning activities are Philippine The welcome dinner is a grand event that took place at the Dusit Jaycees (Junior Chamber International Philippines), Property Grand Ballroom. Jointly sponsored by Western Union and the Developers’ Open House, Television and Shopping Special (ABSPhilippine Department of Tourism, the event began just like any

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EVENTS other Filipino gathering: with a grand feast. Guests enjoyed an extravagant spread of local and foreign pork, beef, chicken, seafood, and vegetable dishes plus a wide assortment of desserts to choose from. Judging from the jovial conversations and the cleaned out catering dishes, the balikbayans and their friends (plus their tummies) had a grand time.

As the participants were enjoying their cup of coffee or tea, the program proper started. After the Invocation and the Philippine National Anthem, Hon. Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr., the Secretary of the Philippine Department of Tourism delivered his welcome remarks.

He mentioned that with the new tourism campaign, “It’s more fun in the Philippines”, the experience of being in the country is highlighted by the tourists’ encounter with the local citizens. The famous Filipino hospitality is still making its mark on every visitor up to today.

Next came the presentation of the delegates. Hon. Jose L. Cuisia, Jr., Ambassador of the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines to the United States of America and Hon. Leslie B. Gatan, Ambassador of Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines to Canada, introduced their respective parties that were met by cheerful claps and shouts of joy.

The night’s celebration is titled “Tipanan Rewind!”, a portrayal of the Filipino as a lover, an artist, a warrior and a deeply devout person. Tipanan, which means a gathering of friends, celebrates the gifts of the past, bounty of the present and hopes for the future.

The delegation shared stories while multi-talented performers dazzle them with songs and dance performances that are uniquely Filipino.

The Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, founded in 1972, together with other performers, wowed the audience with their performances of dance dramas among which were the Dance of Reina Juana Humabon and the Natives, Parian scene, Mazurka Boholana, La Estudiantina, The Mestiza, Jota Paragua, The Thomasites, Carnival Queen and a melodious rendition of Ave Maria that earned a thunderous round of applause. Lance Reblando with God’s Little Sparrows, Jerica Villannueva, a vocal soloist, together with The Company performed comic Tagalog songs that aptly describe the Filipino uniqueness, their ability to see humor in any situation, and very versatile lifestyle.

The Hotdog Band (a popular pop rock band that started becoming popular in the 1970s for leading what was known as Manila sound) set the night’s party mood with their famous songs such as Manila and Annie Batungbakal. balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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EVENTS

The next day started very early for everybody, as the day’s activities include a trip to one of the rarest tourist destinations in the Philippines: Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar (located in Bagac, Bataan) is a living museum that combines the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines with modern comforts specifically fitted to make sure each guest’s needs is well provided for.

These houses, known as casas, were uprooted from their original locations all over Luzon and are reconstructed “plank by plank” and “brick by brick” in their new home. Now proudly standing amidst a majestic background of mountains are 27 heritage architectures each a living witness to the Philippine’s cultural history. The place is like a page from an old diary that came to life.

Walking along the cobblestone streets of Las Casas or riding one of their horse-drawn carriages, then known as caruajes, would bring back a grandiose age where Filipino society is at its peak.

Each of the casas were named after the place where the structures were originally built. Among these buildings were Casa Lubao (from Lubao, Pampanga), Casa Meycauayan (from San Fernando, Pampanga, which was reconstructed in Meycauayan, Bulacan), Casa Unisan (from Unisan, Quezon), Casa Jaen (from Jaen, Nueva Ecija), Casa Luna (from Luna, La Union), Casa Baliuag (from Baliuag, Bulacan), Casa Mexico (from Mexico, Pampanga), Casa Candaba (from Candaba, Pampanga) and Casa Hidalgo (from Hidalgo St. in Quiapo, Manila).

A total of 12 buses brought the group to Las Casas. They were welcomed by refreshments, folk dancing and a hat made of buri, a

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local traveling headgear very much like the Mexican sombrero. The guests were divided according to their bus numbers, with one tour guide per bus made available to answer any questions and discuss the history of the casas and the whole property in general.

After a sumptuous buffet lunch, guests were again treated to a dazzling performance of local folk dances and picture taking within the area, while others continued the tour of the houses that they still haven’t visited yet before heading back to Manila late in the afternoon.

The next day was the highlight of the whole event for the participants. After a wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Park, they were going to meet the president, Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III. In his speech in Malacañan Palace, he candidly asked what the guests noticed differently about. “For those of you who haven’t been here for a while, you will probably look around and ask yourself, ‘What has changed since the last time I was here?’ You will notice that your neighborhoods might look different, that your childhood friends look just a touch bit older. But I hope you have noticed that our country has grown up as well—in many respects.”

Indeed, the country has progressed and changed for the better, and with the recently concluded 7th Ambassadors, Consuls General, and Tourism Directors Tour, more collaboration to further boost the country’s tourism industry can be expected. u

TOURS

The Knight& Shining E-Chariot

By Kristine Bernadeth T. Manaog | Photos by Nicole Marie Alvaro

“And from childhood no amount of familiarity could dull for me the mysterious wondrousness of Intramuros

as the very vitals, the hid heart, the secret soul of my city. Every going into it was a penetration—and in there, for a Manileño, it was always like coming home. He was back to his original, essential, eternal island.

He was back to his roots. Sa loob ng Maynila.” – Nick Joaquin

M

anila, the Distinguished and Ever Loyal City, which celebrated its 441st founding anniversary (founded by the Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi) last June 24, 2012, is busy transforming itself into a world-class travel destination, while maintaining its old city rustic charm. There are a lot of plans to restore the establishments and institutions severely affected by wars and foreign invasions. From being a “dead city,” Intramuros is continuously extending its efforts to revive its lost glory.

Indeed, Intramuros remains as the only remnant of old Manila’s glorious past. It was a fortified city within the wall, where institutions and establishments were all governed in unison, in terms of design and theme. Nowadays, Intramuros is able to maintain its old-age appeal with Spanish-Filipino themed restaurants, hotels built in former bahay na bato, and guards in Spanish military suits. Old Spanish-sounding street names are still there and still have the power to bring back so many memories.

Touring Intramuros seems like an easy task. There are groups who can easily show you what Intramuros has to offer.

There are veteran tourist guides in their kalesas or carjuahes, the Carlos Celdran-led Walk this Way tours, the free Filipinas Stamp Collectors Club (FSCC) Postal Heritage tour and a lot more.

But perhaps one of the most fun tours around Intramuros is the White Knight Electric Chariot Tours Manila, which gives you the benefit of roaming around Intramuros and learning its history.

The White Knight Electric Chariot Tours Manila started this March, revolutionizing Intramuros tours by offering electronic chariot as a mode of transportation. The electronic chariot (or e-chariot for short) is a two-wheeled, battery-powered electric vehicle that relies on the body’s movement for navigation. It has a steering rod that controls the direction of the vehicle. The echariot could pass as a modern tribute to the the chariots used by the knights in the Middle Ages or as an adult version of the modern-day kiddie scooter. balikbayan August 2012 – September 2012

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TOURS

A tourist guide explaining the historical relic

The inspiration came from Morgan Say, CEO of the Capital Wise Group Ltd., when he visited UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the globe and saw the visitors using the electronic chariots to tour around.

He then decided to bring the electric vehicle to the Philippines.

Possibly the first in the country, White Knight Electric Chariot Tours Manila offers 10 units of e-chariots, leaving every 30 to 60 minutes with a tour guide and a safety escort.

Using the e-chariot is an exciting treat in itself. Despite the urge to race with your fellow tourists, the tour guides encourage the group to go on a slow pace and focus more on the historical aspect of the tour. “We try to do the tour in a slow manner and we stop [at] every spot possible for the guests to appreciate history behind these walls,” said Joel Sapay, a White Knight tourist guide and history degree holder. “Philippine history is much more interesting to study compared to others.”

Before the tour begins, guests will be required to wear safety gears provided by the agency and to undergo a 15-minute training session on navigating the e-chariot. The e-chariot is easy to maneuver and no prior experience is needed. There is no age restriction and anybody can ride the e-chariot. However, there is a minimum weight requirement of 45 kilograms and a maximum weight requirement of 100 kilograms. The minimum height requirement is 130 centimeters.

The e-chariot runs for 10 km/hr and, if properly charged, can be used for an entire day. It runs under drizzle and moderate weather conditions. In the event of severe weather and unsafe conditions, tours will be cancelled accordingly and clients will have to re-schedule.

One tour guide caters to a group of four, in order to have an interesting and worthwhile experience. Each tourist guide is an excellent storyteller of Philippine history and can easily expound on the subject inquired.

Though still considered a newcomer, White Knight Electric Chariot Tours Manila is a new and exciting choice to have a glimpse of Intramuros.

Besides the electronic chariot, they also offer Fixie bikes for tours around the Intramuros. White Knight Electric Chariot Tours Manila is a sister company of the White Knight Hotel, which is also located inside the Plaza San Luis Complex. u (For more information, you may contact White Knight Electric Chariot Tours Manila through the following numbers: Landline +632.526.6539/ +632.526.6539/ +632. 525.2381; Fax +632.525.2381; E-mail address intramuroschariots@gmail. com; Address: San Luis Complex Gen. Luna St. cor. Urdaneta St. Intramuros, Manila.)

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Balikbayan Magazine editors on board the electric chariots

White Knight Electric Chariot Tours Manila offers the following tours: Boutique Tour Php500 (USD12.50) per person A 30-minute tour around the following historical sites: Plazuela de Santa Isabel, Manila Cathedral, Plaza de Roma, Fort Santiago, Postigo del Palacio, San Agustin Church, ECJ Building, Casa Manila and Plaza San Luis Complex.

Grand Tour Php 1,000 (USD25) per person A 60-minute grand tour that covers the following historical sites: Plazuela de Santa Isabel, Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, Baluarte de San Diego, Puerta de Santa Lucia, Baluartillo de San Jose, Reducto de san Pedro, Bagumbayan Light & Sound Museum, Revellin del Parian, Revellin de real de Bagumbayan, Puerta de Isabel, Aduana, San Agustin Church, Bahay Tsinoy (Chinese Museum) and Plaza San Luis Complex.

“The Hotel You’ll Call Home”

The Exchange Regency Residence Hotel

Adding to the Ortigas Center skyline is the 42-storey The Exchange Regency Residence Hotel.

Located 10 minutes away from mega shopping centers and major business establishments in the heart of Ortigas, this surprisingly chic hotel embraces its guests with the warm feeling of home amidst the busy city life.

The 216 stylish rooms and suites of The Exchange Regency Residence Hotel are fully equipped with all the modern conveniences of a hotel, like high-speed Internet connection and a 32” flat screen LDC TV. The Deluxe Room and the Premiere Room are suitable for business and leisure travelers, while the Suite Room offers bigger space for families and friends who wish to stay longer.

The 3rd level outdoor pools offer guests a great place to unwind, along with the Game Room, Fitness Center, children’s playground, Health Walk / Jogging Path, and an indoor putting green and mini golf. The 3rd level function room, which can accommodate up to 90 persons, is perfect for cocktails events and other social gatherings. With its floor-to-ceiling glass windows, cocktail parties above the bustling city will never be the same.

The Exchange Regency Residence Hotel offers a slice of the best in Ortigas’ dining experience with select food choices from Harvest, Tully’s Coffee, and Benassi Alimento e Caffe located at the ground floor. There are also several commercial establishments—a 24-hour convenience store, a dental clinic and a nail spa, and two commercial banks—that provide greater comfort to the modern traveler.

With its trendy rooms and myriad of dining and entertainment options, The Exchange Regency Residence Hotel offers everything you need for a good vacation in the heart of Ortigas. u

The Exchange Regency Residence Hotel Exchange Drive corner Meralco Ave., Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Philippines 1605 Phone: +63 (2) 312 9999 Facsimile: +63 (2) 312 9998 E-mail: reservations@theexchangeregency.com Website: http://wwwtheexchangeregency.com/

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FIESTA CAPITAL OF THE WORLD AUGUST Almasiga Festival August 1, Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental A governor’s celebration in the town.

Cabibi Festival: Lallo Day August 1-4, Lallo, Cagayan The patronal town fiesta, highlighted by street dancing, trade fair, Balikbayan tribute, among many others, of Lallo, the former Cuidad Nueva Segovia – the capital of Cagayan during the Spanish colonial period.

Adlaw Hong Butuan August 2, Butuan City A charter day celebration of Butuan City, highlighted by a thanksgiving Mass, motorcade, float parade of the different Regional Line agencies, recognition of outstanding Butuanons and city employees’ night.

Maliputo Festival August 9, San Nicolas, Batangas A festival showcasing the maliputo fish (Caramax Ignobilis) and its contribution to the growing industry of fish in the area.

Pav-vurulun Festival August 10-17, Tuguegarao City A patronal fiesta celebrated in honor of St. Hyacinth which is venerated at the Ermita de San Jacinto. The Ybanag term Pav-vurulun means ‘coming together.’

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Pasigarbo sa Sugbo August 11, Cebu City Founding day celebration of Cebu province, staging the best of what Cebu can offer, from world-class furniture and handicrafts to delicacies.

Sirong Festival August 14, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur A ritual that shows the basic elements of the drama, music, song, dance costume, personification and communal performance.

Dinagat (Bakasi) August 15-16, Cordova, Cebu A reinvention of the Dinagat festival, Bakasi is a celebration for the exotic eel of the same name found in this town.

Sumayajaw Festival August 15, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte A thanksgiving celebration for the bounties showered by the Heavenly Father through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Lady of Assumption.

Turumba Festival August 23, Pakil, Laguna A dance festival participated by children, clad in colourful costumes, who dance with the accompaniment of a musical band.

Paladong Festival August 28, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur A yearly tribute to Hinatuan’s rich and long ethnic tradition, highlighting the Patronal Fiesta celebration of the indigenous groups Manobos, Mansakas, Subanons and Mandaya.

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Tilaw sa Pagkaong Surigaonon – Food Festival and Exhibits August 29-31, Surigao City A celebration of Surigao City’s diverse bounty of seafoods and unique Surigao flavour and food culture.

Madyaw, Hugyaw Samal Festival Every last weekend of August, Bgy. Penaplata, Davao del Norte A festival of thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest and blessings.

Timpupo Fruit Festival August (Movable date), Kidapawan City A festival showcasing locally grown fruits and highlighted by cultural shows, exhibits, street dancing competition and many others.

SEPTEMBER Baguio Charter Day Celebration September 1, Baguio City A celebration of Baguio as a chartered city.

Tuna Festival September 5, General Santos City Festivities made up of a Tuna parade and such other activities featuring the different tuna products and the sumptuous Sashimi Night.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

AUGUST & SEPTEMBER

Panagdadapun Festival September 8-10, Quirino Province An anniversary celebration of the establishment of the civil government of Quirino, the youngest province in the region.

Bonok-Bonok Maradjaw Karadjaw Festival September 10, Surigao City A Surigaonon’s way of thanksgiving for the bountiful blessings and celebration in honor of the city’s patron saint San Nicolas de Tolentino performed through music and dance.

Megayon Festival September 11-16, Zamboanga del Sur Megayon is a Subanen tongue means “Unity and Solidarity.” It showcases the living tradition and diverse culture of the province. Also Araw ng Zamboanga del Sur. Anniversary of the Battle of Pulang Lupa September 13, Torrijos, Marinduque Commemorates a historical event when Filipino revolutionaries staged their first major victory against the Americans during the second phase of the Philippine Revolution – the Filipino American War. Bañamos Festival September 14-16, Los Baños, Laguna A festival that serves as a toast to the hot spring bath of Los Baños coinciding with the founding anniversary of the Municipality of Los Baños, which features science discovery exhibit, beauty pageant, street dancing competition and Makiling Quest Adventrue Race.

Karansa September 16, Danao City, Cebu A dance festival expressing one’s joy and happiness. The dance is performed in 4 basic steps: the kiay, karag, kurug and kurahay that jibes with the Karansa official beat.

Talakudong Festival September 18, Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat Province It is a neo-ethnic cultural spectacles show in hilarious street dancing and exhibition of Kudong, accompanied by exotic sound of percussion instruments.

Karawasan Festival September 13-19, Bislig City Celebrated every year during the charterhood of Bislig as a city, features of the festival aside are the street dancing competition, the National Bike fest and the Mud Skimboarding competitions.

Baoto Festival Every 2nd week of September, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte A regional race for native wooden canoes, the main event is the 30K Paddling marathon. Other activities include tree planting, adventure skills training and triathlon.

Araw ng Siquijor with SOLILI September 17, Siquijor, Siquijor The province’s charter day celebration with weeklong activities, including parade, trade fairs, sports competition and cultural presentations.

Siargao National Surfing Cup September 17-20, General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte A competition that will give chance to the national surfers to compete internationally in the succeeding Siargao International Surfing Competition.

Lembuhong Festival September 20-26, Surallah, South Cotabato A celebration highlighting the foundation anniversary of the Municipality of Surallah. Activities include street dancing showcasing the diverse culture of the ace agri-fair and other socio-cultural festivities featuring local talents among others.

Burdang Lumban Festival September 21-25, Lumban, Laguna A festival showcasing the main industry of the town, embroidery of Barong Tagalog.

The festivity is culminated by a street dancing competition.

Billabong Pro Junior Asia September 21-28, General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte An open invitational surfing competition among local and foreign teen surfers in Asia.

Tumandok Every 3rd week of September, Iloilo City A festive weeklong event that showcases the place’s product, destination and culture.

Bakood Festival September 25-29, Bacoor, Cavite A month-long festivity spiced with a generous dose of service oriented and fun filled events guaranteed to boost tourism, promote trade and industry of Bacoor.

Kalivungan Festival September 26, Cotabato Province A festival highlighting the province’s foundation anniversary. Activities include civic parade, ethnic dances presentations, sports activities held in tourism attractions site and agri-trade fair.

17th Siargao International Surfing Competition September 29 – October 1, General Luna, Siargao Island Surigao del Norte The biggest event in the Philippines with top national and International surfers competing for the prize money (in dollars).

An open invitational surfing competition among the local and foreign surfers.

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Through the Lens August-September 2012 issue

Photo by Nicole Marie Alvaro

“During Balikbayan Magazine’s coverage at Gawad Kalinga’s Enchanted Farm in Bulacan, we came across this bridge made of huge paint cans. As we gingerly made our way through the vegetation towards the picnic area, we stopped for a while to marvel at the ingenuity and resourcefulness of our fellow Filipinos residing in the GK community. Despite the uneven height of the paint cans, they were sturdy. The bridge is a metaphor for the steps we’re taking to eliminate poverty in the Philippines.

While each challenge we face is unique, the important thing is that we’re moving forward. Slowly but surely, our resourcefulness, creativity and dedication will get us there.” – Balikbayan Magazine Staff

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