Balikbayan Magazine - December 2013 & January 2014

DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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VOLUME 5 NUMBER 35 / DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

8 Publisher’s Note

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10 From the Editor’s Desk

Best Destinations and Adventures for 2014

12 On the Cover The Mactan Newtown: Where history, culture, and modernity converge

From scuba diving, whale shark swimming, spelunking (caving), cliff jumping, kayaking, white water rafting, camping, to simply relaxing on the beach, we map out the can’t miss travel destinations for 2014.

20 The Executive Room Resorts World Manila’s Martin Paz, Connecting Where It Counts 22 Investment & Retirement: Real Estate All Roads Lead to AMA Tower Residences 24 Investment & Retirement: Real Estate Sindalan Realty, A Home for Every Filipino

28 ICONS Master of the Arts Beauty in the Eyes of Amorsolo

26 Where to Stay Hotels & Resorts Subic’s Mansion Garden Hotel, The Fruit of Hard Labor

34 DESIGN Loudbasstard Amplify with Sustainability & Style 36 THE ARTIST Anna Vergel Lustrous and Undulating

28 Best Spas Hotels & Resorts The Spa by Mansion Garden 38 Style, Design, & Culture Manila Fame 41 Places The Blue Leaf Filipinas, Your Venue for the Holidays

40 FOOD What’s on a Filipino Table on Christmas Eve? 46 The Report Yes, Its Still More Fun in the Philippines

47 Q & A 12 Things You Should Know About Enerio

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85 Sinulog Festival

DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

19 Leaders

Andrew L. Tan Chair and CEO, Alliance Global Croup, Inc.

DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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Keeping a Journal

Keeping A Journal

VOLUME IV, NUMBER 6

The last quarter of 2013 has been challenging for the Philippines. In a span of two months, our country experienced armed conflict in Zamboanga City, a 7.2-magnitude earthquake in Bohol, and super typhoon Haiyan, the strongest typhoon ever recorded to have made landfall, which hit the Visayas Region.

The stories and statistics from these tragedies are heartbreaking.

Many lives were lost and properties and livelihood damaged.

Survivors still need help picking up the pieces of their shattered lives.

Even with these circumstances, we find that there is still much to celebrate. We can celebrate the fact that this dark time has allowed the Filipino spirit to shine brightly. Foreign journalists and aid workers alike have praised the Filipinos’ tenacity, ability to smile and show gratitude even in the midst of the most devastating circumstances.

These circumstances have also highlighted the generosity of nations around the world that have taken action to help by donating to the relief aid to the Visayan cities affected by the super typhoon.

We are equally humbled by the amount of support that has poured in from the Filipino-American community. It has been instrumental in rallying for contributions from different sectors, as well as giving money out of their own pockets.

Likewise, Asian Journal/Balikbayan Magazine has invited friends to a screening of Resorts World Manila’s Cinderella, in which 100 percent of the ticket sales and donations will go to the relief and rehabilitation efforts in the Visayas.

Of course, we continue to help uplift the Filipino spirit with every issue of our magazine. Our stories highlight what the country has to offer: world-renowned tourist spots, vibrant festivals, talented countrymen and Christmas traditions.

Indeed there is much to celebrate. And we should continue to celebrate for there is hope that will guide us through a better and brighter year ahead.

From all of us at Balikbayan Magazine, we wish you and your family a Happy Holidays!

ROGER L. ORIEL PUBLISHER & CEO

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PHOTOGRAPH BY IGOR MAMINTA / MOUNT. PINATUBO

From the Editor’s Desk As 2013 draws to a close, I reflect on the myriad of successes and struggles of the past year, and especially recently. New cities and businesses have cropped up. Natural disasters have broken others down. Investments and opportunities have emerged.

Thousands of people have lost everything and many more have lost their lives.

Devastating events often precipitate a turning point for those affected both directly and indirectly. I have been no exception.

When I saw the aftermath of Zamboanga City, the earthquake in Bohol, and most recently, Typhoon Yolanda, I felt a stronger sense of love for this country than I had ever felt before.

When I observed the character of the great many who had lost everything and the rest of the country who rose to the occasion, I felt a stronger sense of hope for this country than I thought possible.

In the face of adversity nothing but the deepest inner strength, courage, and perseverance can endure. And those selfsame attributes are what allow men, women, and children who have been bent by the storms of the world to pick themselves up and press on. It is in this vein that we dedicate this issue of Balikbayan Magazine to both the survivors and the strivers in this country.

The people who see or have seen dark times, but never lose sight of the sun beyond the storm. The people who envision a better future for our country and work tirelessly to build it.

In this issue, we honor the life of Fernando C. Amorsolo, who recognized and immortalized the essence of Philippine life and culture so long ago (29). We share with you the story behind the invention of Loudbasstard, the handmade-bamboo speaker (35). We explore Anna Vergel’s solo show, where her paintings demonstrating the balance of nature’s ferocity and beauty are especially resonant now (37). And finally, we showcase destinations for travel and adventure in 2014 where our land’s natural beauty is at once a beacon of hope and a testament to our country’s deep-rooted endurance (49-84).

Our country is still reeling from the storm. And while the scars from this experience may never fade they will forever serve as a reminder of the incredible fortitude our nation continues to demonstrate—one which the rest of the world is beginning to recognize as well. The Philippines has just withstood one of the biggest storms in history and yet we will not let it hinder us in our march toward a brighter and better future. We are just getting started.

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WHERE HISTORY, CULTURE AND MODERNITY CONVERGE

he boom of the Philippine economy is not merely concentrated in the country’s capital, Metro Manila. Recent figures show that the Philippines has seen excellent regional growth from all three of its principal geographic island groups: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Cebu—a prime city of the Visayas—in particular, is a major contributor to this phenomenon.

Recognizing the vast development potential of the Queen City of the South, Megaworld Corporation set its sights on Mactan, Cebu for its newest premier township development.

Megaworld is the country’s premier residential condominium developer and BPO office space provider and landlord. With its portfolio of more than 305 completed projects, Megaworld is at the forefront of the Philippine real estate industry. The company is revolutionizing property development with its township projects, transforming the metropolitan landscapes in both Manila and Cebu.

The company’s pioneering “LIVE-WORK-PLAY-LEARN” development concept, as showcased in the country’s

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first township, Eastwood City, has proven to be a successful formula. This has been replicated in Megaworld’s townships of Newport City, home to Resorts World Manila in Pasay; at Forbes Town Center and Uptown Bonifacio in Bonifacio Global City; and at McKinley Hill in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila’s newest central business district.

Cebu will soon experience the world-class community lifestyle offered by Megaworld’s winning township concept – but on a grander scale. Megaworld Cebu Properties Inc., a subsidiary of Megaworld, is pioneering the development of township communities in Cebu through its exceptional new lifestyle offering: The Mactan Newtown.

The Mactan Newtown is a complete 25-hectare community with live, work, play, and learn components.

Already in the works are three residential condominium clusters spanning 10 towers, more than three office buildings, a reputable academic institution, a commercial center and also a luxury resort. The township is well into the development phase, with the turnover of the first office building slated by yearend.

DISCOVER THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF ISLAND AND CITY LIVING,WHERE HISTORY, CULTURE AND MODERNITY CONVERGE. he township is strategically located some 15 minutes away from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, ensuring utmost convenience for both local and international tourists and investors.

It is adjacent to the Mactan Shrine, a monument built over the area where the Battle of Mactan was fought centuries earlier.

Offering more than just convenience and cultural and historical significance, The Mactan Newtown is also 45 minutes away from Cebu City, the second most important metropolis in the country. At The Mactan Newtown, people will enjoy both the laid-back resort-style surroundings as well as the allure of

being in the fastest growing and most business-friendly economic center in the Philippines. The site of the foundation of the nation, the biggest festivals of the year, and the home of the best “lechon” in the country, Cebu is, without a doubt, the heart of the Philippines. Megaworld could not have chosen a better location for its latest township development, which is the perfect combination between island and city living, where history, culture and modernity converge.

The developments of Megaworld adhere to international standards and push forward the boundaries of what is locally available. With the inspiration of modern cosmopolitan living, Megaworld has tailored its Mactan township to suit the lifestyles of young professionals, growing families and local and foreign retirees alike.

The Mactan Newtown’s superior location and design elements, coupled with its complete and holistic lifestyle concept, make for smart investments with assured value appreciation.

It will perfect resort-style living in the heart of the Philippines. Not only will this be the first township community in the Visayas, it will be the first of its kind in the entire country with the incorporation of its tourism offerings.

WWW.THEMACTANNEWTOWN.COM.PH

DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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A Fusion of East and South East nspired by Japanese architecture, 8 Newtown Boulevard captures the essence of East Asia in design, facilities and atmosphere. The development consists of four residential towers, each 18-storeys high, and offers studio and one-bedroom units in cuts that range from 38.7 to 51.1 square meters.

Its modern façade complements its contemporary, minimalist interior. At the podium-level recreation deck, there are well-planned amenities including a horizon-edge swimming pool complex with paved sunbathing deck, indoor and outdoor spas, an origami room, an ikebana room, a koi pond, a bonsai and niwa-Japanese landscaped garden, a gym and fitness center, and also an outdoor dining area.

Located in The Mactan Newtown, the development creates perfect fusion between the East and the South East. Bringing to the Philippines qualities of authentic Japanese traditionalism and zen architecture, the best of Asian culture comes alive at 8 Newtown Boulevard.

The Hallmark of Modern Luxury ne Pacific Residence, a fine piece of real estate both in the Visayas and the country, is a high-end residential and mixed-use development. It consists of commercial establishments at the ground level, an office building and three 18-storey residential towers offering pre-furnished executive studio and one-bedroom units ranging from 41.4 to 56.6 square meters. By request, units may be combined to make two-bedroom units ranging between 89.2 and 98 square meters.

A model of holistic living, the development features perhaps the fullest range of amenities in a single complex. Residents will experience no lack of recreation with a well-planned swimming pool complex complete with an in-pool lounge, paved wooden sundeck, in-pool aqua gym and a jacuzzi covered with tensile structures. Other podium-level leisure facilities include a spa, a gym and fitness area, an outdoor fitness station, a yoga and Tai Chi area, a jogging path, a children’s playground, an outdoor lounge, a tennis cour t, a culinary station, multi-purpose rooms and a rock climbing wall.

As the epitome of modern living—where living, working and playing take place in a single, elegant and sophisticated location—all of life’s finest comfor ts come together seamlessly. Experience the hallmark of modern luxury at One Pacific Residence.

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Modern Europe in the Tropics

howcasing the best of 21st century living, One Manchester Place features a sophisticated European aura, and incorporates everything expected of a complete residential development. The project consists of three residential towers rising 18-storeys. Studio, one, two and three- bedroom units, ranging from 42.7 to 92.1 square meters in size comprise its condo offerings. Every unit features its own balcony, where residents can soak up views of the complete community.

Its podium level amenity deck hosts a swimming pool complex with an in-pool lounge and paved wooden sundeck, a gym and ½XRIWW EVIE E 8EM 'LM EVIE E VI¾I\SPSK] TEXL E GLMPHVIR´W HE] GEVI center, a business center, a state-of-the-art game room, and also a function room.

3RI 1ERGLIWXIV 4PEGI TVSQMWIW E VI½RIH EQFMERGI XLEX I\IQTPM½IW 1IKE[SVPH´W QSHIVR FVERH SJ PMZMRK [MXLMR E masterpiece township. Immerse yourself in the modern European lifestyle brought to the tropics at One Manchester Place.

FOR INQUIRIES: PLEASE CONTACT (+63999)-993-1990 THEMACTANNEWTOWN @ MEGAWORLDCORP . COM DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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PRIME OFFICE SPACE

egaworld is the Philippines’ leading BPO office space provider and landlord. The company has secured a leadership position in the industry for several years through the development and turnover of strategically located, intelligently designed office buildings.

Following in the footsteps of successful IT parks in Metro Manila’s Eastwood City and McKinley Hill, The Mactan Newtown will host Cebu’s next vibrant business hub. The township was recently declared a special economic zone under the Philippine

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Economic Zone Authority, a distinction that enables business owners and investors operating in the township to enjoy special privileges such as tax incentives and tax holidays. Foreign investors will also benefit from work and resident visas depending on the nature of their business and investments.

One World Center, the first office building in the township is already complete. Second will be Two World Center, followed

by Pacific World Center, which is in the pipeline to be integrated into premier residential development, One Pacific Residence.

Pacific World Center is designed to host companies’ head offices, branch offices and BPO arms. While these buildings round up the current development plans, a full IT park is next on the agenda.

Already the home of the most advanced call center industry in the world, Cebu is no stranger to the requirements of BPO businesses. Megaworld seeks to provide these requirements on a first-class scale with the most premier office space the Visayas has ever seen.

ENTERTAINING LEISURE FACILITIES ebu, with its famous festivals and lavish resor ts, has infused a unique leisure element to The Mactan Newtown.

For its par t, the towship, with its world-class play offerings, round up the attractions that can be enjoyed in Cebu.

Megaworld is making a profusion of recreational amenities available in each of its residential developments. It has also opened retail and commercial establishments at the ground-level arcades of these projects, allowing both residents and visitors to enjoy shop-and-dine experiences with an assor tment of boutiques, handicraft stores and restaurants.

In addition, Megaword has recently signed a contract effectively taking over the rights of the nearby luxury Por tofino resor t.

Development plans are still under way, but the resor t will comprise the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expansion effor ts for the beachfront resor t facilities to be offered at The Mactan Newtown.

A REPUTABLE ACADEMIC INSTITUTION collaboration between Megaworld Corporation and one of the best academic institutions in the country is well in the works to build a school of the best quality the Philippines can offer. Megaworld is enlisting the exper tise of academic professionals to take charge of building the curriculum for the joint project, in order for Cebuanos, along with the residents of The Mactan Newtown, to enjoy convenient access to first-rate kindergar ten, elementary and high school education.

Having already worked with foreign embassies on the establishment of Chinese International School Manila and Korean International School Philippines in McKinley Hill, Megaworld is confident that the following school in The Mactan Newtown will prove a success.

FOR INQUIRIES: PLEASE CONTACT (+63999)-993-1990 THEMACTANNEWTOWN @ MEGAWORLDCORP . COM DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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CHAIR AND CEO, ALLIANCE GLOBAL GROUP, INC.

“...I learned that whether it’s working or studying, doing the best I could brought me a sense of satisfaction and fulf illment. What’s more, it helped me become a better person,” said Tan.

ndrew L. Tan is the Chair and CEO of Alliance Global Group Inc., a conglomerate with interests in the real estate, food and beverage, quick service restaurants and integrated tourism industries through Megaworld, Emperador Distillers Inc., Golden Arches Development Corporation (McDonald’s Philippines), Travellers International Hotel Group Inc. and Global-Estate Resorts Inc. From humble beginnings, Tan has risen through the ranks to become Forbes Magazine’s third richest man in the country with an estimated net worth of US$4.6 billion.

Born in Fujian, China, Tan and his family moved to the Philippines when he was 16 years old. They lived in a small apartment in Sta. Cruz, Manila. His father worked in a transistor radio factory to support him and his brother.

To pay for college and help his family, Tan sold watches, tutored kids in math and worked as an import assistant in a Chinese-owned company. To save money, the Business Administration student walked from the family’s Sta. Cruz home to his school at the University of the East along Claro M. Recto and back. All his hard work paid off as he finished his degree with flying colors and graduated magna cum laude.

“It was hard juggling a part-time job and going to college, but I never complained. I kept at it until I learned how to manage. I learned that whether it’s working or studying,

doing the best I could brought me a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. What’s more, it helped me become a better person,” said Tan. The values of discipline, perseverance and hard work were instilled in the young Tan by his father. “I have taken all of my father’s advice to heart,” says Tan, who passes on important life lessons to his four children Kevin, Kendrick, Kester and Kara.

The journey to the top was certainly not a walk in the park for Tan, who has had his share of challenges. After graduating from college, he continued to strive and fulfill his dream to have a business of his own. From the money he earned selling appliances, Tan went on to establish Consolidated Distillers of the Far East, Inc., and produced liquor. It took several years before Emperador Brandy became a household name.

From liquor, Tan set up his property firm, Megaworld.

Later, he bought 41 percent of Golden Arches Development Corporation, giving it a stake at the fast-growing quick service restaurant business.

He has also expanded his interests, focusing on integrated tourism to help build the nation and put the Philippines on the global map.

Today, Tan and his family work hand in hand to continue to offer Filipinos a wide range of lifestyle products and services.

His wife Katherine and sons Kevin and Kendrick have been helping him manage his successful businesses.

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excellent home address puts you at the center of the metro, where almost everything is within easy reach. Not only does it bring you closer to modern conveniences, it also saves your time when going to any of your desired destination.

Given this perception, urbanites will find the location of AMA Tower Residences ideal for a fast-paced city lifestyle. A 34-storey mixed-use condominium that is completely Wi-Fi connected, AMA Tower Residences, being located along EDSA-Ortigas, provides close proximity to both work and play.

With EDSA right in front of its doorstep, future residents will gain unparalleled access to many hot destinations, including business and commercial districts such as Ortigas Center, Greenfield District, Makati CBD and Cubao. Shopping centers and other recreational venues are also minutes away with SM Megamall, Robinsons Galleria, Shangri-La Plaza, Greenhills Shopping Center, The Podium and Star Mall just around its neighboring areas.

Urbanites valuing the importance of education can enroll in the courses and programs offered at educational institutions near the development like La Salle Greenhills, University of Asia and the Pacific, Development Academy of the Philippines and Saint Pedro Poveda College. Hospitals including The Medical City, Cardinal Santos Medical Center and VRP Medical Center are also a stone’s throw away in case residents would need medical care.

Commuters will also find going to and from the development easy and hassle-free with a wide range of transportation options like Metro Manila Rail Transit (MRT), buses and taxis.

“By making some of the best establishments and institutions along and near ESDA their neighbors, our future residents will find it so much easier to do the things that they wish to do anytime they want it.

After all, AMA Tower Residences is all about doing what matters most to you,” said Amb. Amable R. Aguiluz V, chairman of AMA Land Inc., the mixed-use vertical developer of AMA Group.

Known for introducing customized living to the local condo scene, AMA Tower Residences has 34 commercial spaces and 757 residential units, featuring various unit types such as flat, loft and bi-level units. It also promotes unit combination for those who wish to personalize their living spaces further.

Amenities are also diversified to meet various interests. These include a fully-equipped fitness center for active individuals, swimming pools and a jacuzzi for those who are fond of water, a covered multi-purpose hall for social events and landscaped areas.

To know more about AMA Tower Residences, visit www.amatower.wordpress.com. Reach us through email at inquiry@picardevelopment.com or call +632.822.3443.

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Both sites are strategically located near the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport, which serves as the gateway to any local and international destinations.

Sindalan Retirement Homes is a high-end residential area, catering to people living abroad, particularly the overseas Filipino workers and expatriates. One of its unique features is its “roofless” houses. The upper part or the roof deck is designed as an open space for social gatherings, such as parties and get-togethers. There is also a man-made lake that provides a relaxing atmosphere and stunning scenery.

Once this project has been sold out already, Sidor said that her company will soon start the construction of the budget homes.

Sindalan Homes is seen as a work-live-play residential area that offers houses that can be owned for P500 a month and payable for 50 years. Prospective buyers can either take this option or

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“The company remains prof it-oriented, but its main goal is to provide homes to the average Filipino. Its CEO and founder, Josephine Sidor, plans on developing a housing project where people can own a home for as low as P500...”

SINDALAN REALTY A home for every Filipino lot of real estate companies put premium on developing projects that aim to generate revenue. While this is all good and normal, things get a bit hazy when all there is to it is making money—oftentimes forgetting the basic element of providing quality service to clients.

This is where Sindalan Realty Inc. differs from the others.

The company remains profit-oriented, but its main goal is to provide homes to the average Filipino. Its CEO and founder, Josephine Sidor, plans on developing a housing project where people can own a home for as low as P500. But this will only become possible if the planned retirement homes will push through two years from now.

Sidor said the sales that will be generated by the Sindalan Retirement Homes will be used to build the affordable homes for the common Filipino, which will simply be called Sindalan Homes. The former shall sit on a four-hectare land in Angeles City, Pampanga, while the latter will be placed just across the retirement homes on a 15-hectare land.

pay the full amount right away. Sidor said that this project is her way of giving back to the Filipino people because she wants every family to have a decent shelter for a minimal cost.

As of the moment, Sidor is negotiating with big banks to come up with the needed capital to make these projects possible.

Apart from this, she is also in search of a partner for a joint venture to provide sustainable income to all people involved.

Sidor came to this point in her business from very humble beginnings. She started as a regular employee of her husband’s hotel, the Villa Modesto Hotel also in Pampanga. In an attempt to step out of the shadow of her partner’s business, she decided to venture on real estate. She named the new company Sindalan Services.

It was established in 1994, offering services on realty, housekeeping, renovations, loans, and many more. More than a decade later, it merged with the First Energy Solution Manufacturing Corporation, a company that develops solar water heating and hyper-efficient steam turbine designs.

The merger was the outcome of the marriage of the two owners, which then resulted in the founding of Sindalan Realty Inc. in 2011. They combined their experience, expertise, and technology, thus creating a bigger and better company. It may appear that it has existed for about two years only, but its years of experience prior to the merger shows that it has been of service for an accumulated time of close to two decades.

Sindalan Realty now offers the following services: alternative energy technology, premium equipment, and services; ATO and tax permit; BIR and accounting assessments; full engineering services; HHO and Steam Turbine System R & D; International Fire and Emergency Response and Training Equipment.

Its roster of products and services also includes LED light appliances and displays; manpower; facilitation of mayor’s permit; professional HSE officers and managers; professional lawyer and accounting services; real estate and engineering; realties and realty brokers; and underbalanced drilling engineers and technicians.

STORY BY STENO A. PADILLA

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SUBIC’S MANSION GARDEN HOTEL The Fruit of Hard Labor hile most newly-wed couples would spend their monetary wedding gifts to furnish their home or maybe finance their honeymoon, Oscar and Gail Santos took a decidedly different route.

They used the money to help them as they took over the management Marmont Bake Shop, Restaurant and Hotel in Olongapo, back in 1976.

The original owner was the prominent businesswoman Marta Montelibano, who happened to be a friend of Oscar’s mother. Oscar and Gail considered Mrs. Montelibano their mentor in business.

Though the young couple did not have any experience running a bakeshop, they just simply worked hard and did more than was necessary.

While Gail managed the store, Oscar took charge of the bakery’s operations, even delivering the baked products himself by using his own car.

While there were plenty of challenges that Oscar and Gail faced, one of the most difficult ones was handling problematic employees. The couple soon learned, that treating their employees with patience and compassion, was the key in deftly handling their personnel.

After a year, Oscar and Gail obtained full ownership of the bakeshop.

They renamed it, Mansion Bake Shop, Hotel and Restaurant. Business was flourishing. Orders poured in, and the demand was so high especially during the holidays that they were finding it increasingly tough to meet it with their current set-up. An expansion of the business was called for.

The couple decided to expand their business on Magsaysay avenue, which is a known gathering place for US servicemen and Naval Base employees. Because of the bakery’s success, they launched a hamburger joint in the early 80s, a restaurant called Wimpy’s. Wimpy’s served American food in a family-style setting. It was a far cry from the bars and clubs that were common in the area. With the first Wimpy’s success, they soon H%

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opened other Wimpy’s outlets which are all doing well until this day.

Oscar and Gail continued their foray in the food industry, opening a Max’s restaurant franchise in 1999, and a Filipino restaurant called CocoLime in 2005. These two ventures continued the Santos’ business tradition of offering quality food at affordable prices. Max’s and CocoLime, which is now managed by two of Oscar and Gail’s sons, continue to thrive in their bustling location at Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

In April 2013, the couple opened Mansion Garden Hotel. Considered their newest and boldest venture, the hotel’s goal is to provide their customers with the best quality hotel at prices that won’t break the bank.

Their fifth son, 27-year old Jan Christopher Santos, manages the hotel.

Graduating in 2008 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from De La Salle University, Jan followed in the footsteps of his parents by getting involved in the hotel arm of the family business right out of college.

Jan is the first to credit his parents’ extraordinary vision, which has been such a key in the success of the businesses they own. “My father, in particular, sort of has a ‘Midas Touch.’ This part of Subic where the hotel is standing right now, was kind of a ghost town,” Jan shares. But after the hotel was built on its present location on Dewey Avenue, the area became quite a busy hub of activity.

Plenty of visitors opt to book their accommodations in Subic in this breezy, charming hotel, which has 31 rooms, two function rooms, and a cafe that serves American-style food. In the expansion that will happen next year, more rooms, function rooms, plus gym facilities will be available too. Mansion Garden Hotel is especially popular with American, Japanese, and Indian army personnel who are stationed at Subic’s docks.

But as Subic continues on its rise to popularity as the favored daytrip or weekend destination for families, with its beaches and duty-free shops, plus the Ocean Adventure and the Subic Safari, it won’t be long before the families will come flocking in. And Mansion Garden Hotel will be ready for them. “We are not here only for financial success, but more importantly, we want to be able to serve the community,” the Santos family says.

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BOOKING INFORMATION DEWEY AVENUE & BONIFACIO STREET SUBIC BAY-FREEPORT ZONE ZAMBALES, PHILIPPINES TEL#: (63 47) 250 3132 / 33 (63 47) 250 3135 / 36 MANSIONGARDENHOTEL.COM

Nothing creates the anticipation of total relaxation like stepping into the confines of a lovely spa. And this is precisely the feeling that is aroused when you enter inside The Spa by Mansion Garden. Its long hallway is lined with its thirteen massage rooms, and the soothing touches of matte blue walls, bamboo fixtures, and soft mood lighting.

There's a range of spa services to choose fromâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Thai Body Massage, Swedish massage, Premium Swedish Massage, Traditional Hilot, Hot Stone Massage, Aromatherapy Massage, Ventosa, to a full body scrub and foot massage.

All massage therapists have been trained directly under the tutelage of the senior massage therapist who was flown to Thailand to receive her training. So expect nimble and expert hands to gently loosen the tight knots in your body. Your total relaxation is guaranteed.

In fact, if you're checked-in the hotel, there's no need to go down to the spa. The Spa has portable massage beds that can be brought up to you, so that you don't need to leave the comfort of your own room.

After your massage, The Spa offers a comforting homemade brew of warm ginger tea which you can enjoy while looking around the mini-gift shop located just outside the massage rooms. Along with spa products like candles, soaps, and oils, they shop also sells imported bags and perfume.

Expect the same relaxation package offered by The Spa by Mansion Garden, when it opens another venture in a Bohol resort. There, the beach setting will be used to optimize the wellness experience, as each massage bed is housed in individual cabanas that face the sea.

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BEAUTY in the EYES of AMORSOLO

f you search for “Philippine Art” on Google, most of the images you will see would most likely depict a sunlit field where farmers in colorful clothes are either harvesting or planting rice, a quaint town where its people are celebrating a fiesta, or a lady who is either carrying a basket of fruits or bathing in a river. These paintings were all created by one man.

He is Fernando C. Amorsolo.

Amorsolo is the first national artist of the Philippines. His penchant for rural landscapes, mundane activities in small villages, and the idyllic Filipina has earned for him the well-deserved title and not too few critics as well. The “sweetness and optimism” in his paintings are sometimes viewed by others as the work of someone who has never seen the harsh, and often painful, realities of life.

But Amorsolo knew better. His life was not perfect, as he had seen its ugly face in the midst of poverty and death among others. Only he chose to portray the beauty of the world he lived in.

He was born on May 30, 1892, to Pedro Amorsolo and Bonifacia Cueto in Paco, Manila, but his parents took him when he was barely a year old to the quiet countryside in Daet, Camarines Norte, where he would spend the rest of his childhood. The provincial setting gave him a good exposure to the beauty of rural living, and it was here where he showed early signs of his artistic flair.

As a child, he would go to the nearby coast to draw pictures

of ships. Seeing the young Amorsolo’s drawings, his mother recognized this innate talent right at that moment. She would then send some of his son’s works to her cousin Fabian dela Rosa, who was a prominent painter in Manila.

Tragedy struck in the family when Amorsolo’s brother, Perico, was forced to join the revolutionary movement and eventually died in the hands of the Spaniards. When he was 11 years old, his father also breathed his last. But before Pedro passed away, he made his wife promise to give Amorsolo a proper art education.

Bonifacia then brought her family back to Manila in search of a better life, where they were welcomed by her cousin Fabian, a genre painter who had been trained at Escuela de Bellas Artes y Dibujo (School of Fine Arts and Design).

Being exposed to this kind of life would make one artist produce works that were rather dark and gloomy, but Amorsolo did just the opposite. He remained devoted to painting sunny landscapes, social conducts, and fair ladies. For him, he would rather focus on the beauty and simplicity of life rather than the chaos and cruelty of the world.

It was through the kindness and expertise of Fabian that Amorsolo got his first real exposure to the world of painting.

Life remained difficult, but he persisted to make ends meet by doing what he does best. He made sketches and sold them for 15 centavos a piece. Through this, he was able to help his mother and finish his studies.

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In 1914, Amorsolo earned his degree with honors as a member of the first graduating class of the University of the Philippines School of Fine Arts. He supported himself in college by creating illustrations that appeared in novels and religious publications. During his early 20s, he worked both as an instructor and as a commercial artist.

One of his popular commercial works was the logo of Ginebra San Miguel, which is still being used today. It depicts St. Michael conquering the devil. The masterful work did not elude the owner of the company, Don Enrique Zobel, a leading businessman in the country and a passionate patron of the arts. He was so impressed with Amorsolo’s work of art that, in 1916, he sponsored the painter’s study at the Academia de San Fernando in Madrid.

An interesting story happened during the application process. After taking the standard entrance exam at the Academia, his work was then evaluated. Based on the result, the school decided to accept Amorsolo not as a student but as a professor.

It was in Spain where he was exposed to the works of European modern artists, including French realists, impressionists, and post-impressionist.

Amorsolo also had the privilege of seeing the masterpieces of luminist Joaquin Sorolla y Bastida and the great Baroque master Diego Velasquez, two of his biggest influences.

Through his international training, Amorsolo was able to perfect the backlighting technique,which became his trademark.The technique allowed his landscapes, naked figures, and daily scenes to “glow on canvas.” His brushstrokes were so precise that it took him few layers of paint to achieve the perfect hue and shade that he wanted.

His daughter, Sylvia Amorsolo-Lazo, said that many fake paintings of his late father are being sold in the Philippines and even outside the country, but she could easily tell the imitation from the original because of the brushstrokes.

“They can copy Papa’s work, but not his strokes,” she said.

Some of his major works include Maiden in a Stream (1921) – GSIS collection; El Ciego (1928) – Central Bank of the Philippines; Dalagang Bukid (1936) – Club Filipino collection; Planting Rice (1946) – UCPB collection; and Sunday Morning Going to Town (1958) – Ayala Museum collection, among many others.

When he returned to Manila after seven months in Spain and a brief visit to New York, he put up his own studio and built a very productive career from there. His paintings were in such high demand that he would sometimes have to finish at least 10 commissioned artworks in a month.

This incredible pace owed much to his talent and also to the need to support his huge family.

Amorsolo had six children with his first wife Salud Jorge. He got married again in 1935 to Maria del Carmen, who gave birth to eight more children. He fathered six more children with a third wife.

Because of his efficiency, he was criticized left and right by other artists. But the shy Amorsolo neither fought back nor defended himself.

He just shrugged the accusations and would later claim that “he had already matured as an artist.” In other words, he did not need to prove himself to anyone.

Sylvia shared how her father was “very private” and that he “didn’t want to socialize” much. Amorsolo rarely attended gatherings in his

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honor. Instead, he would ask one of his children to accept the award or recognition on his behalf.

Amorsolo continued working until his waning years. Health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis, and cataracts, weighed him down, but these did not affect the quality of his paintings. What pained him the most was the death of his eldest son Fernando, Jr., due to asthma and tuberculosis.

After seven years, his youngest child, Milo, died in a car accident. Having to bury two of his sons was too much to bear for Amorsolo. On April 24, 1972, less than a year after Milo’s death, he died of heart failure.

“Papa was very much a good father,” Sylvia said, adding that Amorsolo provided for his 20 children financially and gave allowances on a daily basis. Apart from taking care of his many kids, Sylvia said that her father was also “very generous to friends and relatives.”

Even after his death, Amorsolo’s paintings remain popular and influential especially to the new generation of artists. His masterpieces typically illustrate the beautiful face of the Philippines and her people, and these have been a great source of both inspiration and countless criticisms. Still, the rural landscapes, the day-to-day activities of the locals, and the idealized Filipina in Amorsolo’s paintings shall forever be etched in the country’s soul—a thing we simply call ‘culture.’

“He really loved our country,” Sylvia said.

Whatever one’s inclination is, whether one approves of his style and genre or not, it cannot be denied that Amorsolo’s paintings are an epitome of Filipino Art.

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Handmade in Cebu

he duo behind loudbasstard, Koh Onozawa and Franz Ignacio, were high up in the mountains of Cebu brainstorming. They were racking their brains, trying to come up with something to do that would allow them to be based in that southern Philippine island.

The two had worked in different countries all over the world up until then. Ignacio studied architecture at the Pratt Institute New York, and had also worked as the Junior Logistics Director for Christy's Auction House in New York. Onozawa on the other hand, graduated with a double major in Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Management in San Carlos University in Cebu. He had done land archaeology in Guam, Okinawa, and the Philippines, plus underwater archaeology for National Geographic USA. At one point during their think tank session, Onozawa's then girlfriend placed her cellphone in a cup to amplify the music she was playing. "Franz and I found the concept amazing and began to think of how we can create a product for this particular use," Onozawa explains.

As they made their way down from their mountain trip, both were still talking about their idea excitedly. Onozawa remarked, "Man, this thing is going to be a loud bastard." Right then, they both knew they had hit on the perfect name for their product —a name that stuck and was not immediately forgotten. The second "s" was added later on to make the musical reference more pronounced.

The loudbasstard duo proceeded to experiment with different materials, before it finally dawned on them that bamboo was their best bet. "Wood is a very strong sound conductor, while

the cylindrical shape of the bamboo helps direct the sound," Onozawa explains. With the design they came up with, one simply needs to slide in their phone inside the hollow of the speaker, and passive sound amplification does the rest.

From the get-go, loudbasstard was never intended to replace electronic speakers. Onozawa sees it more as a personal amplification device, "We find the best for its use is when you are by yourself, or with an intimate group having dinner, for example."

Each Loudbasstard speaker is carefully handcrafted—starting from the time the bamboo is first cut and dried, until the time it is dyed by local Cebuano artisans. Such simplicity, ingenuity and artistry has earned loudbasstard rave reviews both locally and internationally. People praise its sleek design and the fact that it is sustainable and environmentally-friendly. "Our experiences and exposure have strongly translated back into our company's social responsibility, especially in terms of their focus on environmental sustainability," Onozawa says.

But what's even more heartwarming for the two, is when prestigious companies such as WWF, Kenneth Cobonpue, and Nike Philippines express their eagerness to work with their company.

And as the company looks ahead, they have started to venture into other products. Most recently, they launched their newest offering—bamboo iPhone cases.

But Onozawa says that even though the company will certainly be creating more products, one thing is for certain.

"Everything we do will embody our three main focuses: merging modern technology, industrial design, and sustainability for the love of music," he says.

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Lustrous and Undulating

wo opposing elements dominate the series of paintings across the wall inside The Wine Museum in Pasay City. There’s the dynamic and moving water of the ocean on one side, and then there’s the still and calm earth on the other. The collection of paintings brought together a sense of chaos that, surprisingly, does not conjure any overwhelming feeling.

The deep connection between the artist and her craft is visibly achieved from afar. It’s as if the paintings are speaking to the spectator about its creator’s innermost struggles and aspirations. And it somehow succeeds in bringing out the message of the artist named Anna Vergel.

Anna was a former swimmer and triathlon athlete, so it came as no surprise that her paintings of tidal waves and colorful pebbles were the recent subjects of her latest art exhibit, which was dubbed “Anna Vergel: Lustrous and Undulating.”

This is her fourth solo show to date. The first one was in 2002 when she was only 23 years old. The exhibit was entitled “The Game,” and it was staged at Cafe Papemelroti Gallery. Her second was called “Beyond Borders” in 2008 at Ricco Renzo Gallery, followed by “Knock and Search” in the same art gallery in 2011.

This artist has been active in the art scene for the last decade. Anna has participated in many group shows and private events, such as Manila Art in 2009. She was also among Cebu’s artist 2010 along with other international artists.

Aside from these, she participated in different art events, namely, Nederburg 1st painting auction also in 2010, “Festival” 2009, “Mother and Child” 2010, “Kalikasan” 2010 at the Gateway Mandarin Hotel Lounge, Alabang Country Club Art Sessions 2012, “WOMAN” 2011, “ARTBEAT I” show at the University of the Philippines Bahay ng Alumni, “ARTBEAT III” show at the UP Executive House, and other regular private art session activities.

What keeps her busy as of the moment is her involvement with UP Diliman Alumni Association’s FILPAG (Filipino Portrait Artist Guild and her role as board member of UP College of Fine Arts Alumni Association Foundation, an organization that is responsible for producing and organizing art exhibits.

This growing list is a testament to the promising future of this home-grown artist.

But Anna is not just your typical, full-time artist. She is also an accomplished businesswoman and interior decorator for private residential and commercial establishments.

She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Communication Arts from UP Diliman. She has also taken courses in the Philippine School of Interior Design and units in her Master’s Degree in Architecture also from UP Diliman.

Given her incredible background and multifarious endeavors in and out of the arts circle, it is admirable to see that Anna still has the time to concentrate on her passion and produce wonderful works of art.

Looking at her work for the first time, one would easily recall and compare it to the quintessential Japanese art of tidal waves on canvass, sometimes accompanied by a lonely samurai meditating on a cliff, a gazebo, or a grove of bamboos swaying in the invisible wind. But Anna’s work differed in her concentration on a particular element in a tabula rasa.

It is quite hard to put a finger on a particular art movement that would classify her art pieces, but judging from the brushstrokes and elements present in every canvas, it would seem that the paintings in Lustrous and Undulating are heavily partial to realism, with probably a little influence of impressionism. She is definitely no Amorsolo, but the love and dedication for her craft is evident.

Take for example one of her paintings, The Perfect Wave. It’s a 4ft x 6ft picture of a huge tidal wave that is about to crash onto the shore. Anna said, “The rhythm of the wave is created naturally and spontaneously. It begins as a small swelling of the water, and then it begins to grow.” She described the feelings it evoked as “exhilarating, refreshing, cheerful, and exciting.”

The painting depicts the ferocity of nature and the beauty that goes with this madness. It’s quite hard to fathom how something so pleasing to the eye could also be life-threatening in reality, but Anna’s rendition of the ocean’s wave made it simple for the imagination to grapple with the paradoxical idea.

Her Rightful and Extrusive is one of the pebble arts on display that stood out from the rest. The shades of blue, white, gray, and rust are not common combinations I see whether in the outside world or in any piece of art, but this one made it all look so cohesive. Add to that the size and orientation of the painting (3ft x 9ft, landscape) and the whole piece

becomes congruent.

Anna said that this piece is “inclined to push [one] out to project [his or her] goal, be an inspiration to others,” adding that a person should “never be complacent” with what little goal he or she would achieve in the short run. In other words, you’re only as good as your last performance.

Although the titles and descriptions of Anna’s works in Lustrous and Undulating leave a lot to be desired, the pieces themselves speak of a deep purpose within the artist’s soul. She said it’s a “journey towards happiness and success,” but a lonely spectator may see differently.

Without prejudice, while looking at all the art pieces together in one room, one can get a glimpse of the artist’s vantage point, where she sees balance in an often frenzied and unpredictable world. And it is not that rather uncommon a theme in any artist’s inspiration.

This unfolds primarily in the painting Reflection of the Water: Ride Wisely. It’s a 3ft x 9ft canvas that mimics a crashing wave, minus the surfer. Anna described this as follows, “At times, light blue, dark blue, or even gold colors change with the different depths in one’s life inevitably.” Given one’s background in life, she said that a person should “look closely to find the proper ride for a decision.”

The combination of dark and light colors explicitly expounded on the idea of finding poise in a troubled place or situation. Just like The Perfect Wave, this one also portrays the presence of the good in the bad.

Anna’s The Enlightened would probably sum up this whole sentiment. According to her, this 4ft x 4ft painting of colored rocks sitting quietly on what appears to be a shore reflects the “intellectual and spiritual awareness after the battle for your success.” This may seem a bit difficult to grasp at first, but looking closely at her work, one can imagine the stillness of the stones as quite similar to the enlightened state of Siddhartha Gautama, or simply Buddha.

Anna may have not spoken of this herself, but for other people who are trying to appreciate an artist’s work, it would appear that her exhibit was a manifestation of man’s search for equilibrium, harmony, and logic in the midst of life’s confusion, cruelty, and lots and lots of craziness.

“Lustrous and Undulating” was a fairly safe name for the solo art exhibit, but it could have been more apt if it were called “Beauty and Madness.”

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Manila Fame he singular thought that runs through anyone's head while they survey the booths at the Manila FAME Design and Lifestyle Event must be this: "Filipinos are so talented!"

Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Center for Trade Exposition and Missions (CITEM) which is headed by Executive Director Rosvi Gaetos , Manila FAME is one of the largest trade shows in the Asia Pacific. Year in and year out, it has been showcasing the best Filipino talents in the fields of design and craftsmanship.

Running from October 17-20, 2013, Manila FAME has booths displaying exquisite furniture, furnishings, holiday decor, bags, and clothes. Prominent designers like Kenneth Cobonpue, and Budji Layug, are here, plus many other talented craftsmen and manufacturers from different corners of the Philippines.

In fact, because of the DTI's "One Town, One Product" initiative under the helm of Secretary Gregory L. Domingo, provinces in the Philippines and their respective products are well represented. There's banig from Basey, Samar, with chevron prints and flowery patterns in bright colors. There are beautiful beaded accessories from Bohol, whose representatives came in full force even after the devastation of the earthquake just a day before.

Elegant bags made of water lilies, which is a source of livelihood for women from Pila, Laguna are on display, as well as hand-woven table runners from Vigan, Ilocos Norte.

There are also shell products and brass fixtures from Cebu, home decors made from resin originating in Pampanga, and stunning beadwork made out of recycled paper from Valenzuela, Manila.

One booth, Risque Designs by Tal, offered customized artisan shoes, which boasted of local handwoven fabric, and carved wedge heals from Paete, Laguna. Risque's Animalia Filipina collection has wedge heels that are carved to look like a crocodile, a pawikan (marine turtle), a tamaraw (water buffalo), and a tarsier.

This October's Manila FAME also highlights two exciting events. The first is Manila Wear led by internationally acclaimed fashion designer Josie Natori. Manila Wear features Filipino designers whose creations highlight the country's natural materials. The second is Design Philippines, which features the latest collection of creative entrepreneurs who have been mentored by Kenneth Cobonpue and Budji Layug. written by lady may martinez / photographed by noel ty

DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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*+#5%2-)'9&)#1:1; Kumain ka na ba? (Have you eaten?)

In the Philippines, asking this question is tantamount to saying Hi or Hello to somebody. Filipinos love to eat, and the smart phones and social media only helped in proving that. In the past people would gather and pray before a meal, now they transform into foodies searching for that perfect angle of any food served in front of them before taking a snapshot.

Although times have changed, what can be seen on the Filipino table during noche buena or on Christmas Eve has practically remained the same. After hearing the mass and completing the Simbang Gabi for some, the entire family gathers around the table like the knights of King Arthur, all in preparation for a palatable battle.

While dining customs in the Philippines do not usually adhere to the appetizer-entrée-dessert format of the West, Balikbayan Magazine has organized the following Filipino Christmas food to fit the menu of our kababayan abroad, particularly those second and third generations of Pinoys who grew up outside of the Philippines.

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PUTO BUMBONG Usually eaten after the Simbang Gabi, this is a deep purple, seasonal rice cake made from galapong or sticky rice. The flour mixture is placed in a tube of bamboo or bumbong and cooked through steam.

It is then served with margarine, sugar, and sesame seeds.

CASTAÑAS These are, simply, roasted chestnuts. The smell of these shelled delicacies is enough to give any Pinoy that Christmas feeling associated with the malamig na simoy ng hangin. For some, the essence of eating the castañas is in the peeling, so savor that moment.

BIBINGKA A close friend of the puto bumbong, this rice cake is yellowish orange in color and is cooked using an improvised oven—two clay pots filled with burning charcoals. A special bibingka is one that is “baked” with cheese and itlog na pula or salted egg.

61))12' LECHE FLAN Another Spanish-influenced food, this dessert is more commonly known by outsiders as crème caramel or caramel custard. The heavenly sweetness and awesome creaminess of the leche flan makes one ask for more and more... and more.

MACARONI SALAD A small serving of this chilled pasta delight is enough to tickle those taste buds and ready them for the bigger treats ahead. Just be sure not to consume too much of this as it might ruin your appetite and lose interest in other Christmas cuisines.

KESO DE BOLA Literally, a ball of cheese. This is actually an Edam or a semi-hard cheese that originated in the Netherlands. This can be paired with any wine of your choice or eaten together with the Christmas ham.

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HALAYA A Filipino dessert made of purple yam, many call it as simply ube.

Westerners are probably more familiar with the Japanese taro. Well, this is its close relative, and the taste is relatively the same—sweet, creamy, and extremely satisfying.

HAMON The Christmas ham (hamon for most Pinoys) is considered the star and center of the table. Every grocery store is filled with boxes of this cured meat, made in different sizes, shapes, and types. But a typical ham must always, always, have a special sauce poured on top of it.

FRUIT SALAD In the Philippines, a fruit salad is a mix of all-purpose cream, condensed milk, and tropical fruits easily both in tin cans and is usually called fruit cocktail. To make it special, some add coconut meat shreds, nata de coco, kaong, and cherries.

LECHON This roasted pig that usually comes with a red, succulent apple in its mouth is never absent in any special occasion being celebrated by Filipinos, so it’s only natural that this meat be served alongside other “sinful” food served on the Christmas table.

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RELLENO A special dish that is quite hard to prepare, this is a stuffed cuisine usually made with either a fish (a bangus or milkfish) or a chicken.

Put this in any dining experience and automatically it turns any meal into something extra special.

TSOKOLATE Hot chocolate is a Filipino favorite during Christmas Eve. A local recipe is called tablea, which is Spanish for tablet. It is hard chocolate melted into perfect viscosity and mixed using a tool called batirol, which is believed to bring out the flavor of the cocoa.

SALABAT This is ginger tea, a strong brew that many Filipinos believe can help in soothing any throat malady and improve one’s singing voice. It is usually given free of charge when you buy puto bumbong or bibingka.

PAELLA This is another meal that is difficult to prepare. Thanks to the Spanish colonizers, Filipinos learned to cook rice in a special way, what with all the rich ingredients mixed altogether to bring that exquisite blend, not to mention that it connoted wealth for some families.

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The Blue Leaf Filipinas Your Venue for the Holidays

The season most Filipinos have been waiting for is here once again, and what better way to celebrate the holidays than to be with the people you love the most. For reunions, there is only one place to go to make sure that everyone will be accommodated properly... The Blue Leaf Filipinas.

The Blue Leaf Filipinas has mastered form and function through research and years of experience in banquet service. As the second events place for The Blue Leaf brand, it only goes to show how the country has increased its need for facilities that cater to big social events like grand family reunions or Christmas parties.

The first events pavilion is located in McKinley Hill Village in Taguig City and has already become the venue of choice for social gatherings and corporate events. The Blue Leaf Filipinas, on the other hand, is in Parañaque City,particularly at Aseana City,a 204-hectare development along the Manila Bay area that is positioned to become the next entertainment and business hub in the Philippines.

All materials used to build the events place are sourced within the Philippines. The hallway features a wooden ceiling with alero design.

Meanwhile, the interiors proudly introduce capiz doors, abaca chandeliers, a nice biscuit-colored wooden ceiling, classy veneer wall accents, and a balcony that is highlighted by a barandilla-inspired pattern and a romantic “pulpit” shape.

A main garden, accentuated by tropical plants and pathways, is found at the center of the venue. This greenery offers an out-of-the-city experience similar to that found in The Blue Leaf in McKinley Hill Village.

The Blue Leaf Filipinas also boasts of a five-meter high waterfall that adds a soothing effect to the spa-like atmosphere of the place. Completing the al-fresco setting is the feature staircase that overlooks the garden.

With its minimalist, Filipino design, clients are given the freedom to apply their own theme or design to the venue. This proves that The Blue Leaf Filipinas is both flexible and functional.

It stands on a 5,800-sqm lot and features three Pinoy festival-inspired events halls: Sinulog (which can accommodate 500 guests), Pahiyas (300 guests), and Pintados (200 guests). These halls have a combined capacity

of 1,000 guests.

For small gatherings, three more Pinoy music-inspired function rooms are also available, namely, Harana, Kundiman, and Cariñosa. Each one has a capacity of 50 guests. They can also be combined to host 150 guests.

Above these rooms is a roof deck garden that faces Manila Bay, perfect for sunset ceremonies or evening cocktails.

Whether it is a wedding, a debut, a children’s party, a conference, a business meeting, or any other social gathering, The Blue Leaf Filipinas offers packages that will make planning easy and stress-free. Its all-inclusive packages provide all the essentials needed for any type of occasion.

A typical package for buffet dinners or weddings is intended for 150 guests. However, packages for a small group of 50 to as big as 1,000 guests are also available. Each one is inclusive of five-hour use of venue (with additional two-hour ingress and one-hour egress) and cuisine services with a designated caterer.

The Blue Leaf Filipinas has partnered with some of Metro Manila’s most sought-after caterers to ensure that your guests are happy and full.

These are Hizon’s, Josiah’s, K by Cunanan, Tijoe (pronounced as ‘Choo’), and The Red Chef and Events.

Other standard features included in the package are air-conditioning system, stage, pavilion projector and screen, pavilion sound system, electricity, parking space, caterer’s area, guest lounge, security staff support, engineering staff support, and housekeeping staff support.

For the terms, a non-refundable reservation fee of P20,000 per hall is paid upon confirmation. A 50-percent down payment has to be given 30 days after reservation. The remaining half has to be paid 30 days before the event, with an additional security deposit of P20,000 per hall (returned minus the charges seven days after the event).

For more information and reservations, call +632.623.9188, +632.585.1207, +63917.838.BLUE, or +63917.868.BLUE; e-mail filipinas@theblueleaf.com.ph; or visit filipinas.theblueleaf.com.ph/Contact.

written by steno a. padilla / photographed by noel ty DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

BALIKBAYAN MAGAZINE.COM

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CONNECTING GLOBAL TRAVELERS WITH THE PHILIPPINES SINCE 2009.

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YES, IT’S STILL MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES story by steno a. padilla

series of unfortunate events befell the Philippines this year, but the Filipino people have remained steadfast through and through.

The same thing can be said of the tourism industry of the country. Despite the standoff in Zamboanga City, the earthquake in Bohol and Cebu, and the devastation in the Visayas region, particularly in Samar and Leyte, in the wake of typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), visitors remain positive about the pearl of the orient.

Balikbayan Magazine heard this uplifting news from Domingo Ramon Enerio III, chief operating officer of the Tourism Promotions Board. The TPB is the marketing arm of the Department of Tourism, responsible for providing marketing promotions support for entertainment, hotel and resorts development, investment, and many others.

Enerio says that prior to typhoon Yolanda, the country has already reached an increase of 12 to 13 percent in tourist arrivals, on track in its target of 5 million tourists for 2013. Although the destruction in Central Philippines may put a dent on the total number of arrivals for the year, he says “interest remains strong” and many “hotels [are] still fully-booked.”

Enerio also assures that “it’s safe to come to the Philippines” even though the entire nation is still reeling from a number of natural and man-made disasters. According to him, in spite of everything “there are so many more destinations” where tourists can go to and enjoy.

Foreign visitors can choose to go to the north in Baguio City, Sagada, Ilocos Sur, and Ilocos Norte among others. The island of Boracay and Palawan also remain to be strong tourist-drawers. And there are plentiful places to be discovered in Mindanao, such as Davao City, Cagayan de Oro City, Siargao, Camiguin, Sarangani, and many more.

Although the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” campaign of the DoT has been suspended temporarily as a form of commiseration with the affected Filipinos, Enerio is emphatic to share that for the rest of the year, the campaign had been “strong,” with no small thanks to the passionate “support of the

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Filipino community” here and abroad.

The More Fun campaign renewed the sense of nationalism among Filipinos, and, more importantly, it exponentially increased traffic among domestic travelers, with locals getting more curious to see and discover beautiful places that can be found in their country. It is in this sentiment that TPB decides to “focus on domestic tourism.”

For Enerio, he believes that this is the “key engine” that will restart the tourism industry, particularly in those areas that have been damaged by recent calamities. He likened this effort to that in Japan after the tsunami in 2011. The locals there were the ones who moved and traveled around the country, boosting domestic tourism, while simultaneously helping rebuild their nation.

Enerio is hoping that the reconstruction and recovery efforts, alongside the multitude of support and aid pouring from the international community, will be accomplished “by the [Filipino] people themselves.”

For the year 2014, Enerio says that the TPB will be focusing on “becoming more digital” by taking advantage of the Internet and social media, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The DoT will make use of these tools to promote the country to foreign visitors as well as to the local market.

“Mahilig tayong mag-share (We like to share),” says Enerio.

“We love telling stories.”

This is particularly evident in certain situations where, for example, Filipinos will first take a photo of the food they are about to eat and post it via social media, take a picture of him-or herself instead (better known as ‘selfie’), or putting hashtags to any status or posts. By adding local destinations, delicacies, and culture in this picture, more netizens all over the world will be made more aware of the Philippines.

“Anybody can be an ambassador for the country,” says Enerio.

“Tourism is everybody’s business... It’s an overall effort.”

Guided by this new “trend,” the DoT will make sure that the Filipino nation will have more selfies, more hashtags, and more likes sooner than one can say #itsmorefuninthephilippines.

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Things You Should Know About Enerio

It is not every day that one gets to sit down with COO Domingo Ramon Enerio III. That is why Balikbayan Magazine is indeed privileged to get updates on the current standing of the tourism industry in the Philippines from the man himself.

To make the most of our stay in his office, we made sure that we got to know a little bit about the personal life of Enerio. We asked him a few questions on things that a lot of people still do not know about him. We had our expectations, but we were still amazed with some of his answers.

HERE ARE A DOZEN TRIVIA ABOUT COO ENERIO: 1. His friends and family call him â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chicoy.â&#x20AC;?

2. His zodiac sign is Leo. 3. He drinks an average of five to six cups of coffee a day.

4. He quit smoking in 1992 and is still living a smokeless life today.

5. He loves being with his two grandsons, Nacho and Enzo.

6. He used to play golf and admits that he is a 20-year beginner.

7. His favorite cities are Tokyo and London.

8. His favorite place in the Philippines is Bohol.

9. His father is from Bohol, while his mother hails from Nueva Ecija.

10. He has three children, two daughters and a son.

11. His favorite books are mostly classics and autobiographies.

12. He is a meat-lover.

interview by steno a. padilla / photographed by noel ty DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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Tubbataha Reef HOW TO GET THERE

From Manila, take a plane to Puerto Princesa. Tubbataha Reef and Natural Marine Park is accessible only by a ten-hour trip on live-aboard boats from Puerto Princesa. The best time to visit is towards the end of March until mid-June.

Tubbataha Reef and Natural Marine Park has been ranked time and again as one of the best dive spots in the world.

This UNESCO World Heritage site, has been put under the protection of the Department of National Defense, effectively shielding it from the destructive practices of illegal fishing and coral collection which were once common in the area.

With its more than 130,000 hectares of stunning coral reef systems and a diverse marine life population, Tubbataha is a diver’s dream come true. Here, divers can marvel at more than 350 species of corals and around 500 species of fish. There are a number of shark, dolphin, whale, and bird species, too. In fact, the Tubbataha Reef and Natural Marine Park is also the nesting ground of Hawksbill and Green sea turtles, and one of the last remaining breeding reserves of seabirds in the region.

The park is actually composed of Tubbataha’s North and South atolls, and the much smaller Jessie Beazley Reef. Each of Tubbataha’s atolls have a small island that have shallow pools, hugged by about 500 meters of reef flat.

Divers are spoilt for choice in their options for marvelous dive spots here in Tubbataha. On the northern side of the atoll, is Bird Island—the favorite gathering place of seabirds. This dive site has a depth of up to 60 meters, with a water current that is quite strong. But if you brave the dangerous waters, you will be rewarded with the sight of barrel sponges, soft corals, blacktip and whitetip sharks, as well as surgeonfish, groupers, and Moorish idols. Manta rays are common in the waters here too.

Amos Rock, on the other hand sits on the southern part of the north islet, with waters that are up to 70 meters deep. The dive here begins on a soft slope that is blanketed with corals, which then leads up to another wall, this time covered with whip corals and gorgonian fans. Some of the marine life you can encounter in the waters of Amos Rock include mackerels, snappers, angelfish and Moorish idols. Manta rays and eagle rays, plus turtles are also known to frequent these parts.

Meanwhile, even if Jessie Beazley Reef is a mere half a kilometer in diameter, it makes up for its size by its stunning underwater sights. The shallower parts contain Porites and Acropora corals, which support reef fish, while the deeper areas abound in blacktip sharks and tuna. From time to time, hammerhead, mako and thresher sharks can also be encountered.

WRITTEN BY LADY MAY MARTINEZ IMAGE COURTESY OF UNESCO.ORG DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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Calaguas HOW TO GET THERE

There are direct flights from Manila to Naga City in Camarines Sur. From Naga, take a van to Daet which takes two hours. There are also buses from Manila to Daet, which take 10 hours. From Daet, hop on a boat either in Paracale or Vinzons, which will take you to Calaguas.

The main draw of Calaguas, a group of 17 islands that are two-hours away from Vinzons Municipality in Camarines Norte, is its beaches. They are some of the most stunning in the Philippines. The sand is dazzling white, and waters are crystal clear for miles on end. Visitors here are few and so you can have long stretches of sand all to yourself. It's so secluded that it's sometimes hard to believe that this is all within reach by bus from Manila. It seems that such remoteness belongs to destinations further down south.

And while each island here is as beautiful as the others, each one has its own particular charm. Pinagcastillohan has a snaking white sandbar, for example, and nothing but the ocean all around.

Tinaga Island, on the other hand, has Mahabang Buhanging

(Long Sand). This beach has 5 km of powdery white sand, patches of volcanic rock and teal blue waters where the sunlight dances.

Here, camps can be set up for overnight stays, and campers can cook their own meals and pitch their own tents. But if you want a bit of an upgrade, there are cottages that you can rent.

Because there's no electricity and only weak cellphone signals, days spent at Mahabang Buhangin let visitors unplug and unwind: long walks on the beach, all-day snorkeling and swimming, drinking fresh fruit juice, eating the fresh catch of the day and watching the sunset.

Still, others opt for beach sports such a volleyball or frisbee.

And a few content themselves with taking lazy naps by the shore.

But while there are an endless array of unhurried pursuits on the island, to be sure, scrolling on a smart phone is not one of them.

WRITTEN BY LADY MAY MARTINEZ / PHOTOGRAPHED BY REIZEL & DAVID CORREA $G

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Camotes Island HOW TO GET THERE

Take a direct flight from Manila to Cebu, and then take the RORO boat, fast craft or ferry from Danao City to Camotes Island.

Located off the coast of Cebu province, Camotes is the island of choice for the better informed. Its turquoise waters, pristine white sands and remote location gives its visitors the enthralling feeling of having their own private island.

Legend has it, that when the Spaniards first stepped on its shores, they asked the natives what the island was called. Thinking that the Spaniards were asking what they were farming, the natives answered “camotes” (sweet potatoes). And so this is what the island has been known as, ever since.

There are three islands that make up Camotes: Ponson, Pacjian and Poro and Tulang. And these three are some of the most unspoilt that the Philippines can boast of. On a regular day, you can have any of its stunning beaches all to yourself, leading many to liken it to Boracay, before it was overrun with tourists

and commercialism.

If solitude by the beach isn’t your thing, Camotes has a couple of interesting spots further inland. There’s Lover’s Lake, the 700-hectare Lake Danao where boat cruises and picnics are popular. Cave exploration is an option as well. Bukilat Cave has magnificent stalactites and stalagmites, while the more adventurous can try Timubo Cave and its steep stairs and spring waters. There’s also a bit of bird watching to be had, where you can observe the Philippine wild duck of the pretty purple heron.

Camotes in January and March comes alive with its festivals.

Tagbo Festival in January commemorates the founding of Poro town with re-enactments and lots of merriment, while SoliSoli Festival in March pays tribute to the soli-soli plant and the town’s patron saint.

WRITTEN BY LADY MAY MARTINEZ $H

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Taytay, Palawan HOW TO GET THERE

There are regular direct flights to Puerto Princesa, Palawan from Manila. From Puerto Princesa, a bus or van can take you straight to Taytay, and the travel time takes approximately 4-5 hours.

From El Nido, Palawan, there’s also a bus or van that travels to Taytay, and the trip takes around 2-3 hours.

Most tourists overlook the town of Taytay when they are visiting Palawan. They only descend upon El Nido, and never bother to see what Taytay has to offer. That’s too bad. This sleepy town has its own share of charms and attractions to rival its more famous neighbor.

Situated 220 km on the northeast of Puerto Princesa, and 500 km southeast of Manila, Taytay is bound to the north by El Nido, to east by the Sulu Sea, to the south by San Vicente and to the west by the South China Sea. This old Spanish town, which was founded in 1623, used to be the seat of the Palawan government, and is in fact, the largest municipality in the province. But even before the Spanish came, Taytay was already a flourishing town, rich in trade and activity.

One good way to glimpse Taytay’s past, is by way of its famous fortress. The Fuerza De Santa Isabel or the Fort San Isabelle was built by the Augustinians in 1738 as protection for the townsfolk against marauding Moro pirates. This remarkably well-preserved structure overlooking Taytay Bay, was built with corals and limestone. In its grounds, one can still see its old brass canons, and the remains of an old church.

Older than the fort is the parish church of Taytay, the Sta. Monica parish church. Built in 1663, this working church is just three minutes away from Fort Isabelle, and is the center for all the religious activities and festivals in Taytay.

But the town’s main attractions are of course, its natural treasures. Malampaya Sound, a stretch of water facing the South China Sea is the playground of Irrawaddy dolphins. These dolphins, which are known for their bulging foreheads and small beaks stay in small isolated populations in the waters of Southeast Asia, and they are very much endangered. According to WWF, that there are only 44 of them left in the Malampaya Sound area.

Of course, the trip wouldn’t be complete without some island hopping. After all, Palawan is famous for its lovely islands, and Taytay has its fair share of them.

Elephant Island has a hidden lagoon that offers fantastic snorkeling, while Apulit boasts of a dazzling white sand stretch (since a resort has been put up here, permission from the management is needed when visiting the isle), while Tecas Marine Sanctuary, Isla Blanca and Quimbaludan are uninhabited islands that are worth a visit for their pristine shores.

But, if salt water isn’t your thing, there are several freshwater options in Taytay too. Canique Waterfall, which is 30 minutes away from the city proper, has sparkling, clean waters that cascade from a height of 12 meters. Then, there’s Lake Manguao, Palawan’s largest lake at 6.7 square kilometers. The lake’s calm waters, lush greens and bird population is best experienced via a kayak.

WRITTEN BY LADY MAY MARTINEZ IMAGE COURTESY OF SKYSCRAPERCITY.COM DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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Danjugan Island HOW TO GET THERE

Take the direct flight from Manila to Bacolod City. From there, you can either rent private car or hop aboard a bus to go to Bulata. From Bulata, there is a 30-minute banca ride to Danjugan Island—which have to be pre-arranged.

Little known Danjugan Island is a marine and wildlife reserve located in Barangay Bulata in Cauayan, which is 150 km south of Bacolod City. This 43-hectare island is home to a diverse population of marine and terrestrial animals, and boasts of unspoilt lagoons, limestone forests, and coral reefs.

Visitors here can have an intimate and unforgettable encounter with nature at its most pristine. Despite its relatively small size, the island is teeming with biodiversity. There are more than 70 bird species here, including a nesting pair of White-breasted Sea Eagles, Tabon scrub fowls, blacknape orioles and night hawk owls. There are also different species of bats, butterflies, and fish.

Its surrounding waters are frequented hawksbill turtles, blacktip reef sharks, and even manta rays and whale sharks.

It is in this type of environment that learning about nature is most conducive. And this is precisely what the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation Inc (PRRCFI) has capitalized on. They hold regular marine and wildlife camps for young people, teaching them about environmental awareness and protection.

The campers listen to lectures on the importance of protecting

mangroves and coral reefs, and learn about the ways that they can respond to the threat of climate change. They also engage in activities like snorkeling, birdwatching and even a beach clean-up.

They sleep in open air cabanas, with a communal toilet, and are encouraged to use only one pail of water (collected rainwater) a day.

Guests who are not taking part in the camp stay in equally rustic accommodations -- mud houses made of clay, straw and lime, supported by a bamboo frame. Activities here revolve around getting close to nature, while making sure not to harm it. There’s kayaking on the serene lagoons, where the waters are clear enough to see the tiny fish that dart through the water.

You can also go trekking through the limestone forests, to cross to the other side where Turtle Beach is. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see some of the turtles who come here to lay their eggs.

Snorkeling is highly encouraged too, as there are a plethora of underwater wonders to be seen -- giant clams, seagrasses and a variety of fish. If you’re the more daring kind, bat caving might be the best activity for you. Of course, you can also just simply lie on the beach and just allow Danjugan to work its magic on you.

WRITTEN BY LADY MAY MARTINEZ / IMAGE COURTESY OF COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG $%

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Pagudpud HOW TO GET THERE

By land, you can drive to Pagudpud via Maharlika Highway. The drive is 12 hours, but once you get near the town, it is a pleasant one, accompanied by such pretty scenery as rolling hills and brilliant blue waters.

Buses can also bring you to Pagudpud, just hop on one at the Cubao terminal Manila.

By plane, it is a 45-minute flight to get to Laoag, the capital city of Ilocos Norte. From there you can take a bus or jeepney to Pagudpud.

The resort town of Ilocos Norte is home to a place that people have taken to calling the “Boracay of the North.”

Granted, Pagudpud’s white sand beach does merit some sort of comparison to its neighbor down south. But this popular municipality is so much more than a Boracay clone.

Located on the northernmost tip of the Ilocos Norte province, Pagudpud’s coastline is as long as it is dazzling—it is reputedly the longest contiguous white sand stretch in the Philippines.

Most of the crowds flock to Saud Beach, which has a pretty, coconut-lined shore. But if you want a more secluded spot of sand, hie off to Blue Lagoon in Barangay Balaoi. Here you can pretend to be a castaway, and enjoy an undisturbed time on a gorgeous beach.

For the more rugged and adventurous types, why not try the longest zip line over open water? At Hannah’s Beach Resort in Barangay Balaoi in Malingay, this zip line will have you zooming giddily over a kilometer of water.

Other attractions include Kaibigan Falls, which is a 30minute trek away, where the water is crystal clear and cool.

Anuplig Waterfalls meanwhile, can be visited in Adams, after a trek through rivers and hills. Another waterfall is Abang Falls in Bangui, whose water cascades in a curtain-like fashion, meriting comparisons to Hinulugang Taktak Falls in Rizal.

And while you’re in Bangui, you might want to drop by one of the most iconic sights in Pagudpud—the Bangui Windmills. This row of bone-white, 70-meter high windmills span the length of the beach, making for pretty, postcard-perfect photographs.

Another spot for your snapshots is the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, just outside of Burgos town proper. This 160-meter, Spanish colonial lighthouse was built in 1890, and was used as a guide by Spanish galleons sailing in the South China Sea. The lighthouse actually still works today, and has a small museum where visitors can learn more about its history.

WRITTEN BY LADY MAY MARTINEZ / IMAGE COURTESY OF COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG $D

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Sagada HOW TO GET THERE

While there are no direct trips from Manila to Sagada, what people usually do is travel f irst to Baguio, Banaue, or Bontoc. From either Baguio or Banaue, catch a ride to Sagada. From Bontoc, you can take the iconic rooftop jeepney ride to Sagada.

Nestled atop the Cordillera Mountains, getting to Sagada is quite a journey. It lies 275 km north of Metro Manila, and it takes 12 hours by land to get there. But the long trip is worth it. This mountaintop town is popular among backpackers for its cool climate, clean surroundings, low crime rate, beautiful mountain scenery and its overall easygoing vibe.

The best way to get around Sagada is on foot or on a bike.

This allows tourists to take their time and appreciate the scenic mountain views. Besides, there’s no need for a mad rush from sight to another -- most of the town’s must-see spots are within easy reach of each other.

Some of the places to visit here are remarkable glimpses into the life of the native Ifugao who have lived in Sagada for centuries. Take for example, Lumiang Cave. The cave is the 2,000-year old burial ground of Ifugao elders. Its coffins are smaller than usual, because the Ifugaos traditionally bury their dead in the fetal position, in keeping with their belief that the dead should leave this world in the same manner that they entered it.

Meanwhile, a 20-minute walk away is the Echo Valley and the famous Hanging Coffins of Sagada. As its name suggests, the sound of your shouts will bounce around in Echo Valley, but in contrast, it’s probably best to keep a respectful silence at the Hanging Coffins.

This is another burial ground of the Ifugaos, but this time, the coffins (which are hollowed-out pine logs) are hung from either the face of a cliff or inside a cave. The tribe believes the higher the coffin is hung, the closer the dead Ifugao is to heaven.

The caves that do not function as Ifugao burial grounds can be enjoyed for spelunking and trekking. Sumaguing is one such cave, with its entrancing limestone formations and cold spring waters.

Other places worth visiting in Sagada include Lake Danum for its pretty sunset views, Bomod-ok (Big Falls), for its 200foot waterfalls, and the Sagada rice terraces. Even though the terraces here are not as grand as its Batad counterpart, they are still quite breathtaking.

WRITTEN BY LADY MAY MARTINEZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY CHANG JU WU DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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Siargao HOW TO GET THERE

By air, there are direct flights from Manila to Siargao Island. By land, buses ply the routes from Butuan, Davao, and Liloan to Surigao City. Another option is to board the RORO bus from Manila. By sea, there are ships that sail regularly from Manila to Surigao. When you get to Surigao, hop on a ferry to Siargao.

It was once a sleepy island in Mindanao, but in the 1980s, American and Australian surf enthusiasts discovered the world-class waves of Siargao. Photographer John Callahan captured Siargao’s gigantic waves, and soon enough, the photographs landed on the pages of Surf magazine in 1993.

The island’s dramatic reef breaks captured the attention of the surfing world, and the rest as they say, is history.

This was how Siargao became one of the darlings of the surfing world. 800 km from Metro Manila, in the province of Surigao del Norte, the island drew, and continues to draw surfers from all over. Their most popular gathering place is Cloud Nine, whose dramatic waves crash dangerously into craggy corals, and is clearly the territory of professionals and the stout of heart.

Visitors to the island swell during the latter parts of September and the early weeks of October, during the annual Siargao International Surfing Cup. During this time, locals joke that Cloud Nine has been transformed into “Crowd Nine.”

Cloud Nine’s long boardwalk fills up with surfers and spectators who gather for their fill of exhilarating surfing.

And Siargao’s popularity show no signs of losing steam.

Recently, it was named by CNN Travel as one of the top ten surf spots in the world, calling the waves of Cloud Nine a “death

ride” where “fearless surfers will experience a slice of paradise or hallucinations as waves wrap over them like a liquid cocoon.”

Aside from Cloud Nine, there are other surf-worthy spots in Siargao. Tuason Point is one, which has a pier that makes it more accessible. The reef here is mossy and with some rocks, but not so rough that one needs to wear a booty. Another spot is called the Jacking Horse. This one has waves that range from 2 to 7 feet, which then crash into a shallow reef.

But contrary to what people may think, Siargao offers several adventures other than surfing. The island also attracts the game fishing community, with its annual event where enthusiasts try their luck at reeling in the many tuna, mackerel, and marlin that populate the island’s surrounding waters.

There are also picturesque little islands such as unspoilt Naked Island, named so because it is stripped of all possible traces of civilization. And while you’re there, swing by to nearby Daku Island, which has lovely white sand, that is fringed with swaying coconut trees.

The great thing about Siargao is that all of these— the world-class waves, the pristine islands and the waters teeming with fish, can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. The different resorts, restaurants and establishments here are relatively inexpensive, in keeping with the laid-back surfing vibe.

WRITTEN BY LADY MAY MARTINEZ / IMAGE LOCATION AT DEDONISLAND.COM %H

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Bucas Grande Island HOW TO GET THERE Bucas Grande Island, located in the town of Socorro, Surigao del Norte, is easy. Travel by air to Surigao City before taking a multi-cab or tricycle to the city’s Pantalan Uno (Pier One), where you a two-hour boat ride to the island is waiting for you.

An alternate route is also available for seasick travelers. From the airport, go to the city bus station. Take the bus, van, or jeepney to the port located at Barangay Hayanggabon in the town of Claver, Surigao del Norte. Rent a boat that will take you to Bucas Grande in less than an hour.

To describe this relatively unknown place in Northern Mindanao in one sentence, Bucas Grande Island is Boracay, Palawan, and Bohol rolled into one.

It has white-sand beach, cave, lagoon, lake, lush forest, and many other treasures only a tropical place can offer. To think that this piece of paradise can be fully appreciated on a weekend getaway is stretching it a bit too far. It’s not impossible, naturally, but it will surely leave your heart aching for more if you do this.

The best way to get a taste of what Bucas Grande can offer is for you to plan the trip ahead of time (six months in advance is not bad), file a vacation leave for at least a week, and forget everything city living has forced you to accept as the normal course of doing things in life.

Because once you step into this faraway land, time stands still like a placid. And before you know it, you’ve already embraced this kind of lifestyle.

No, it’s not a party haven like Boracay or Puerto Galera, but that doesn’t mean you will die of boredom here. You won’t need a dance floor, a DJ, and cases of beer to get yourself entertained. If you insist, dance in gay abandon in its clear waters or on the beach while listening to the waves crashing on the shore, or the birds and crickets making weird rhythmic sounds in the forest, or the howling of the wind passing through the cave.

Get spell-bound by the enchanting Sohoton Cove, by far considered as the best part of Bucas Grande. It has a half-submerged entrance (and exit) that becomes impassable on a high tide, as if hiding all the good things it contains inside. No less than a blue lagoon will welcome you before making your way to its other attractions. Some of these include the Hagukan sea cave and the Magkuku-ob cavern.

The Hagukan (literally, snoring) sea cave is right inside one of the seven islets of Sohoton. Swim beneath it to experience the mysterious glow on your skin, which is actually caused by the sunlight passing through its small entrance. The light streams directly into the water and then gets reflected back to your skin.

Magkuku-ob (bowing), on the other hand, is another cave inside an islet that has walls naturally painted by nature. Its masterful combination of yellow, aquamarine, and turquoise creates a surreal display mimicking a galaxy from far, far away. A short climb on a passage adjoining its walls will lead you to a breathtaking view of stalactite and stalagmite formations. Not too far from here is a five-meter jump-off point where you can freefall straight to the deep, blue sea.

WRITTEN BY STENO A. PADILLA PHOTOGRAPHED BY REY TORRES DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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El Nido

HOW TO GET THERE To get to El Nido, you can fly direct to Lio Airport via SEAIR, which has two flights to and from Manila, Busuanga, and Puerto Princesa weekly. From the airport, take a tricycle or hire a boat to take you to the town proper. You can also fly to Puerto Princesa via other airlines before taking a bus for a nine-hour travel by land.

El Nido in Palawan is considered by many as paradise here on Earth, and for good reason. It is home to 888 species of fish, 447 species of coral, 114 species of bird, five species of marine turtle, 2,645 hectares of mangrove forest, four archaeological sites, and 250-million-year-old limestone cliffs.

The excavations in this place led to the discovery of 14,000-year-old human remains, 9,000-year-old cremation sites, 11,000-year-old tiger bones, and a pre-Hispanic trading community in Sibaltan. This is the reason why many parts of El Nido remain under government protection.

This paradise, located north of the island of Palawan, is sandwiched between towering limestone karst cliffs and the Bacuit Bay. It is also the gateway to one of the Philippinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; natural treasures: the Bacuit Archipelago.

El Nido is part of the Eurasian plate, which is a separate plate from the Philippine Mobile Belt, where the rest of the archipelago belongs. Proof of this is the limestone cliffs similar to those found in Ha Long Bay in Vietnam and Guilin in China.

These two countries are both part of the Eurasian plate, and

Palawan is believed to be detached from mainland China some 40 million years ago.

What makes El Nido a perfect destination for your dream vacation is its variety and well-preserved environment. It has 45 islands and several islets, each with its own unique offering. Many islands have pockets and coves of fine, white sand beaches that rival that of Boracay Island. There are also caves with out-of-this-world dripstone formations.

Secret lagoons and mangroves that serve as shelters of different marine creatures are waiting to be discovered around certain islands or on the other side of limestone walls. Many will agree that this place almost never runs out of things to offer to any adventurous soul that happens to wander into it.

El Nido is perfect for scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, sunbathing, soul-searching, and what have you. It is also a favorite destination among honeymooners and dating couples. There is probably no other place in the Philippines or in the world that can offer such a diversity in terms of natural wonders.

WRITTEN BY STENO A. PADILLA / PHOTOGRAPHED BY REY TORRES %%

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Biri Island

HOW TO GET THERE Fly to Catarman, Northern Samar, from Manila. From the airport, take a tricycle to the main terminal where you can ride a jeepney that will take you to the town of Lavezares. Be sure to tell the driver to drop you off at Lavezares port. If you say ‘pier’ or ‘port’ only, the driver might take you to the bigger Allen port. From there, rent a boat for P50, one way. From the Biri jetty, take a habal-habal to your hotel or guesthouse.

Geologists and geographers might find this place a wonderland, what with the staggering rock formations that have been slowly and scrupulously sculpted by the very hands of Mother Nature herself, probably for hundreds or thousands of years. Some even call it the “battlefield of the gods.” But for many Filipinos, it is simply Biri Island.

Located across the northwestern tip of Northern Samar, Biri Island is a silent witness to the unending clash between the waters of San Bernardino Strait and the Pacific Ocean. Not only is it trapped between these two bodies of water, the island is also constantly shaped by the winds and waves coming from the ocean, hence the unique geological characteristic of the place.

There are six staggering rock formations on Biri that are fast becoming a tourist drawer in the Eastern Visayas region.

From west to east, they are Magasang, Magsapad, Macadlaw, Puhunan, Bel-at, and Caranas. It is advisable to visit these sites on a low tide to be able to fully experience what they have to offer. There is a progress trail, however, for those hardto-reach areas, but there’s nothing like stepping on the rocks yourself.

The rock formations are a result of the interplay of

several activities by nature; the waves there are unpredictable and can sometimes be unforgiving, so be extra careful. One of the astounding results of this interplay is the natural pool at Bel-at. It is a bluish white pond surrounded by enormous rocks that serve as its barrier to the harsher world out there.

Visitors can swim in the pool, if they wish to, after a long walk in the trail. Better to bring your own picnic basket as well to complete the fun.

Biri is a remote place, and development has yet to take place in here, but do not worry as there are many guesthouses, transient homes, and even resorts on the island. Freshwater is scarce, so it would be better if you could bring your own bottles of distilled water. Electricity here is also in short supply as it is only available from 12 noon to 12 midnight.

Food is not a problem. You can go to the nearest market to buy your supplies or ingredients, and you may ask the resort owner or the place where you are staying to cook the food for you. Of course, there is an additional charge of P50, but it sure wouldn’t hurt so much if you could give a little tip. After all, the cost of living here is low, so almost everything is cheap.

For those on a really tight budget, you may want to try the sari-sari stores and snack booths scattered all over the island.

WRITTEN BY STENO A. PADILLA / PHOTOGRAPHED BY SANDY GABUTIN

DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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Cagayan de Oro HOW TO GET THERE There are flights from Manila to the “City of Golden Friendship” daily.

I will never forget the day I went to Cagayan de Oro City.

It was cloudy, and the river was raging more than the usual that afternoon due to the strong rain the previous night. Seeing the rapids from where I stood along the bank triggered a rush inside of me that I remember feeling a few years back when I rode the plane for the first time. There was an undeniable fear, but the excitement overpowered everything else.

I wore my life vest, took a paddle, and went to where the guides were standing for the mandatory orientation. The guy with the sun-kissed skin showed us how to hold and use the paddle correctly, then he told us a few codes we should remember to make communication easier during the course of the “cruise.” Immediately after that, I was led to our rubber dinghy together with a few friends to finally start the much-awaited white-water rafting.

The inflatable boat, surprisingly, was steadier than I expected, and its material was really rough I thought even a chef ’s knife would have a hard time piercing through it. I chose to sit on the left-front side of it, thinking it would be the most thrilling position. I removed my eyeglasses and wiped it thoroughly before wearing it again. And off we waded through Mindanao’s most famous river.

The first few “rapids,” as the guides call the rushing water, were just okay. It was scary at first glance but running over it felt like riding through a few bumps along EDSA, so it was easy. But just like a roller coaster ride, the bigger and scarier drops are yet to come. The succeeding rapid caught us a bit by surprise. The boat touched the initial drop and then fell to a steep slope before bouncing off the surface. One of my friends fell off the dinghy, but the guides were quick to pull her out of the water.

And so we named that part of the river after our friend.

There was a relatively long calm after that part. The river was running softly and smoothly so we decided to get off our boat to swim for a while. Unfortunately for me, I forgot to secure my eyeglasses before going down. As I swam away from our dinghy, I didn’t notice a submerged branch protruding from a huge rock a few meters in front of me. The force of the water pushed me to that part. I hit the branch and got pulled fast by one of our guides.

But before I emerged out of the water, the back of my head hit the branch again, causing my specs to lose its grip to my ears. I didn’t even have time to say goodbye to my inanimate companion as it drowned in the depths of the river.

It was frustrating, of course, but I did not let it ruin my adventure. I continued paddling with my poor eyesight and used my other stronger senses to enjoy each passing moment. To my amazement, even with blurred vision, I was still fascinated by the beauty of my surroundings.

I saw limestone cliffs, familiar trees and shrubs, and the quintessential tropical forest found almost anywhere in the country. Though I lost a precious object, I believe my CDO experiences more than made up for it.

WRITTEN BY STENO A. PADILLA PHOTOGRAPHED BY DENNIS PANLILIO

DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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Coron

HOW TO GET THERE There are several flights to Busuanga Island, where the town of Coron is located, from Manila daily. It can also be reached by sea, via a 12-hour trip from Manila.

I did not need to enroll in a basic photography class nor set my DSLR to manual mode just to capture the best of Coron.

This place is insanely picture-perfect that even by clicking randomly anywhere with my eyes closed, I’d still have a copy good enough to be a cover photo on my Facebook account.

Fine, I may be exaggerating a bit, but for me to be able to say this only means that Coron is paradise. I wouldn’t even hold back in saying that being in this part of Palawan is like stepping into a tiny parcel of heaven’s garden. It is almost hard to believe that a dot on the map of the Philippines could contain so many beautiful sights.

Imagine a colorful coral reef breathing so much life just a few meters from the beach. It is only in willfully maintained and highly regarded places like Palawan can you experience this masterpiece from Mother Nature, and I have to thank the local government and the Tagbanua for keeping Coron pristine despite the rapid urbanization in most parts of the country.

The Tagbanua is an indigenous people living harmoniously with nature in remote parts of Palawan. Because of them, Coron has remained unspoiled even with the lusting of greedy mining companies and businessmen who want and think of nothing but profit. These locals treat their ancestral domain as sacred grounds—their home and livelihood—but they allow visitors in some parts of their area to see what they have been protecting for centuries.

I was lucky enough to encounter some of them as they guided me and my friends on our way to Kayangan Lake. They were a little reserved, much like the lake that we were about to visit. Its turquoise water was so calm it felt like I was facing a quiet old man who holds so much wisdom. And when I finally got a taste of it as I swam with my life vest on, there was this unusual mix of fear and serenity brought about by its surprising depth and seemingly inert demeanor.

On my way back to our boat, I was treated once again to a panoramic landscape. There on the steep side of the hill I was trekking, I saw the lagoon where boats dock and the picturesque limestone karst that fenced the entire place. I have seen this many times in photos posted on Flickr and other Internet sites, but seeing it with my own eyes was a totally different experience. I finally made myself believe that, using a friends’ statement, “the Philippines is really a beautiful country.”

It was a bit disappointing that despite staying there for five days, I still wasn’t able to experience all the things that Coron has to offer. Sure, I was able to swim at Maquinit Hot Spring, feed some fish at Siete Pecados (which I believe, on hindsight, was not an agreeable thing to do), snorkel in one of the Japanese shipwreck sites, and climb the 700-plus steps of Mt. Tapyas, but doing all these was just, forgive the cliché, the tip of the iceberg.

Coron is so much more, and it deserves a coming back.

WRITTEN BY LADY MAY MARTINEZ / IMAGE COURTESY OF COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG CH

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Mt. Kanlaon

HOW TO GET THERE To get to Mt. Kanlaon, take the flight from Manila to Bacolod City. Take the shuttle to the city center and then hop onto a bus bound for La Carlota City. From there, buy provisions at the market before riding the jeepney that will take you to Guintubdan.

It is every mountaineer’s dream to climb an active volcano. Mt. Mayon, Mt. Pinatubo, and Taal Volcano are some of the most common summits that come to mind first, but for non-Luzon residents or for those seeking of relatively unknown places, Mt. Kanlaon is the perfect choice.

One of the 13 most active volcanoes in the country, Mt. Kanlaon poses the real possibility of an explosion, and some climbers have already died scaling it in the past. But fear not, as the tallest peak in the Visayas is friendly to those who follow the necessary guidelines and those who come prepared.

Be sure to acquire the permit (P300) and get a guide (P500/ day) before trekking the volcano. A porter can also be hired if you want someone to carry your belongings while going the strenuous way up. There are several tour agencies available to make arrangements easier and faster. You may try Next Stop Negros Tours or Dumaguete Outdoors.

There are three main routes in Mt. Kanlaon. The easiest ascent is the Guintubdan trail. Although this one is the most common, do not make the mistake of underestimating it. From here, you’ll walk eight kilometers of rugged and “mystical” terrain, and it is recommended to break it with an overnight stay before taking the final assault.

The other trail is called Mananawin, a 14-kilometer stretch that can be completed in three days and offers mountaineers the best route to really get to know the mountain. The last one

is the Wesey trail, which is short, steep, and exposed, and often reserved for experienced tropical mountaineers.

Before conquering Mt. Kanlaon, allot a day for your side trip (preferably before going up) to pamper yourself or condition your body. A good place to while away your free time is at Busay Kapid (Twin Falls), which is not too far from the ranger station and only a 30-minute walk from the road. Going to the foot of the falls is extremely hard, so the guides usually take visitors to the source where the water is both clear and chilly.

Wake up the next day at around 6 a.m. to start your trek to the craters. Wildlife abounds in most areas of Mt. Kanlaon, so be extra careful and always follow what the guide tells you or your group. But don’t miss the chance to take shots of the dense and rich forest life of the volcano. If you’re lucky, you might encounter pythons, tube-nosed bats, and several bird species that freely roam the mountain.

The first crater you will encounter is the “old” one called Margaja Valley, a flat terrain so huge at least 10 basketball courts can fit in it. The other and more terrifying crater is at the summit where you can also get a good view of Margaja. Now this crater is not like the inviting ones found in Mt. Pinatubo or Taal Volcano. The crater’s rim is a forbidding knife-like edge that appears to serve as a fence to the volcano’s chasm.

Looking at it can spark both fear and wonder to this overwhelming creation.

WRITTEN BY STENO A. PADILLA / PHOTOGRAPHED BY APOL SEBAN C#

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Donsol

HOW TO GET THERE Donsol can be reached by plane (via Legazpi City, Albay) and then a van or by bus in Manila.

This third-class municipality in the province of Sorsogon is most famous for its whale sharks. The largest fish in the world has become so iconic in this coastal town in the Bicol Region that it has earned a fiesta in its name, the Butanding Festival, which is usually held in April. And thanks to this gentle giant, Donsol was put on the map of the country.

In the past, whale sharks sowed fear in the hearts of local residents. They thought that this large “shark” is capable of injuring or eating fishermen alive. But in 1998, a group of scuba divers swam and interacted with these creatures. The people saw this and soon their perception on butanding changed. Swimming and interacting with the whale shark has become an eco-tourism attraction in Donsol that even Time Magazine featured it in 2004 as the “Best Animal Encounter in Asia.”

The largest congestion of these sea creatures happen from December to May, but they can be seen from November to June.

These fish are migratory animals, and they migrate to Donsol in large numbers to take advantage of the huge dense concentration of planktons and krills in this area, which is brought by current patterns, water temperature, and the relatively good health of its sea.

While most people go to Donsol to interact with the butanding, there are a couple more things to see and do here. Stay for a few more days and try scuba diving on Ticao Island, a 90-minute boat ride from Donsol. This island has two main dive sites, Manta Bowl Shawl and San Miguel Island.

The Manta Bowl Shawl is an underwater atoll covering approximately eight hectares of flat area. Located in the middle of the ocean, it is the habitat of the world’s biggest rays. In fact, it is now considered as the Manta Ray capital of the Philippines. In it is the Ticao Pass, which has the world’s highest concentration of plankton due to the strong currents from San Bernardino Strait, making it an ideal cleaning and feeding station for manta rays.

Apart from the rays, it also attracts a good number of whale sharks, hammerheads, tresher sharks, and other pelagic fish.

San Miguel Island, on the other hand, is located on the northern part of Ticao Island, around 45 minutes away from Manta Bowl. It has several dive sites that are distinct from each other. These include Bobby’s Wall, Parola, The Classroom, The Point, Tres Grace, Lapus Lapus East, and Lapus Lapus West.

At night, you can head back to Donsol town proper and enjoy a magical moment in its rivers by watching fireflies dancing in their favorite mangrove trees. Take a banca and cruise down the river just before nightfall to witness the romantic sunset before finally engaging with the fireflies that appear like stars here on earth. Don’t forget to look down in the water to see the river glow as the boat’s motion turns on the plankton’s luminescence.

If these activities still find you wanting for more, you can opt to trek Mt. Mayon or do horseback riding.

WRITTEN BY STENO A. PADILLA PHOTOGRAPHED BY CASI AT HEYNOOBZ.COM DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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Mt. Pulag

HOW TO GET THERE To get to Mt. Pulag, take the Baguio-bound bus from Manila.

Head to the terminal at the Old Slaughterhouse, and take the A-Liner bus bound for Kabayan. Register at the Visitor’s Center and have your orientation before setting out to the Ranger Station via habal-habal (motorcycle). Secure a guide and start your trek.

The rain made the ascent doubly difficult.

It was already the tail end of May, and the monsoons were starting to enter the country’s area of responsibility. My friends and I decided to climb Mt. Pulag for the first time. We knew in our hearts that we had to do it, not because it was on our bucket list nor summer was ending, but because we felt that we could.

Slippery and muddy, I divided my weight equally on both feet as I stepped on the tranquil trail of Ambangeg. It was a relief to know that caretakers put branches and trunks of dead trees and shrubs on accident-prone areas of the beaten path beforehand to make walking much easier. I also had to give it to our experienced guide who doubled as my walkie-talkie. It was nice talking to her about the place.

I enjoyed the feel of the light rain on my exposed skin. It tickled and it added pizzazz to the crisp and cool air of the mountain, which somehow made breathing less strenuous. I took pleasure in the green, unadulterated surrounding, which is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna. As I dug through the depths of my stock knowledge, I realized how illiterate I was when it came to naming plants, shrubs, trees, insects, birds, and other endemic creatures found in the country.

Our guide was not of any use, too, as she was reticent to the types of plants lining our way (although she did make up for this by picking wild blueberries for us on our way back to the ranger station). When I asked her why she would not speak a word about it, she explained to me how other people would sometimes exploit the mountain’s natural resources by stealing plants after knowing their medicinal value.

After hearing that, I learned to content myself with simply immersing in the raw and unpretentious beauty of nature.

That was when I realized the change in the terrain. I noticed that the

Benguet Pine Trees had disappeared all of a sudden and were replaced with plants I have never seen before. The air has also become thinner, and I felt a little lightheaded. Little did I know that we have gone past the pine forest and already entered the mossy one, a sign that we were closer to the summit.

We had to set up camp before nightfall, as it would take another hour to finally reach the peak of Mt. Pulag. Camping was fun; it was mindblowing how the stars could seem so near and so bright when you are on top of the mountain. And although it was unpleasantly cold out there, it became one of those punishing experiences that I would eventually long to live through time and again.

We “woke up” (even though we did not get sleep at all) two hours before sunrise. We hiked the final stretch of the footpath on the way to the summit. I slipped several times, and I had to blame my poor eyesight and my lack of preparation for that (I forgot to bring a flashlight).

If not for those dwarf bamboos that served as cute cushions, I would probably be six feet under by now.

All the hardships and misadventures were soon forgotten as I made my big, final step on the highest point of Mt. Pulag. I saw the sun rose in the east, its rays kissing my unwashed face. I breathed deeply to take it all in and to congratulate myself for making it in one piece. In that precious moment, I finally felt and understood what it meant to be on top of the world.

To get to Mt. Pulag, take the Baguio-bound bus from Manila. Head to the terminal at the Old Slaughterhouse, and take the A-Liner bus bound for Kabayan. Register at the Visitor’s Center and have your orientation before setting out to the Ranger Station via habal-habal (motorcycle). Secure a guide and start your trek.

WRITTEN BY STENO A. PADILLA / PHOTOGRAPHED BY KRENIL MICLAT CD

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Panglao Island

HOW TO GET THERE Getting to Panglao Island is easy. There are daily flights from Manila to Tagbilaran City in mainland Bohol. From there, you can either take a taxi cab or a tricycle that will bring you to Panglao Island. You can also ask your hotel to pick you up in the airport.

Bohol may be famous for its Chocolate Hills and tarsiers, but its neighboring island is slowly making a name for itself.

Panglao, located southwest of Bohol and still a part of this province, is an island teeming with beach resorts, caves, and many other natural wonders that can only be seen in a tropical paradise like the Philippines.

To start with, Panglao Island boasts of some of the most engaging dive sites in the country. There is Alona Beach Sanctuary, Kalipayan, Bohol Beach Club, Doljo Beach, and Napaling, among others. Since this side of Bohol is rich in marine biodiversity, it is but natural to assume that it also keeps some of the finest white beaches not just in the country, but in the world.

Panglao beaches rival those of Boracay, but unlike Boracay, you won’t have to deal with thousands of other tourists sharing the white sand and crystal-clear water with you.

It is not packed, so you can enjoy the serenity of the island without totally feeling out of place. Alona Beach Resort and Bohol Beach Club are only two of more than a dozen resorts lining up the coasts of Panglao.

If the beaches and dive sites in Panglao are not enough for you, which is highly doubtful, you can easily rent a boat to hop onto its neighboring islands, Balicasag and Pamilacan, for more adventure. The former is more famous for snorkeling and scuba diving because of its unbelievably diverse underwater world,

which shelters sea creatures such as turtles, sharks, fusiliers, and black coral bushes.

Pamilacan, on the other hand, is known for whale shark— and dolphin-watching activities. Head out to the island’s surrounding sea early in the morning to be able to catch these gentle marine animals as they play and feed at the same time.

If you go deeper and are brave enough, you might also get the chance to see other ocean dwellers, such as black-white banded sea snakes, moray eels, nudibranchs, and bucket sponges.

Once you’re done with the countless water activities, it’s time to check out Panglao’s caves. The most commonly visited one is Hinagdanan Cave, named as such because a “hagdan” or ladder is used by visitors to get in and out of it. It is one of the 1,400 caves that have been identified in the province of Bohol alone.

And as an added treat, there is a pool inside Hinagdanan where you can swim. It sure is cold and deep so don’t dive into it right away.

From here, you can go straight to Bohol Bee Farm. As its name suggests, it is a farm for honey bees, so you can definitely grab a bottle of fresh honey from its store or take a pose with one of its beehives. The bees are harmless, but be sure to wear protective gears nonetheless. The farm also doubles as a resort, with a garden and an indoor swimming pool. Before leaving this place, be sure to taste its very unique “flower” salad.

WRITTEN BY LADY MAY MARTINEZ / IMAGE COURTESY OF COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG DG

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DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

The Asian Journal mirrors the phenomenal growth of the Filipino American community in the United States.

From a small staff and humble beginnings in downtown Los Angeles, Asian Journal has grown to be one of the largest ethnic publishing firms in America. Presently, top caliber writers, artists, and creatives come together to provide FilipinoAmericans with their local community, U.S. National, and news in the Philippines.

We are committed to excellence, maximizing every opportunity to improve our products and services and making them responsive to the ever-changing demands of the Filipino-American community.

Visit us at www.AsianJournal.com.

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Mt. Pinatubo

HOW TO GET THERE Clark is 80 km from Manila, and is an hour and a half drive. There are direct flights from Manila to Clark daily too. Mt. Pinatubo is 65 km from Clark International Airport. Tours can be arranged that will pick up visitors directly from Clark.

It’s hard to believe that 20 years ago the whole area surrounding Mt. Pinatubo looked desolate and forsaken.

Its 1991 eruption had left thousands of homes, and properties damaged, ash covered the entire area, and lahar (rain-induced torrents of volcanic debris) buried people and animals.

In the years that ensued Mt. Pinatubo has become a must-see tourist destination. Tourists flock from all over just to get a first-hand glimpse of the breathtaking volcano crater.

To get there there is first, a tricky jeepney ride through a 16 km lahar road, that will bring visitors to the base of the volcano. From there, tourists take a 7 km trek to Mt. Pinatubo’s crater, while enjoying stunning views of hanging valleys, streams , and gorges.

The hour or so it takes to trek is rewarded with the majestic view of Mt. Pinatubo that unfolds before one’s very eyes. The waters in the crater 2.5 km lake are a beautiful blue green, and it is surrounded by lush greenery.

Guests can then spend their time lazing around and enjoying this wonderful view, or they can have a relaxing massage at the Pinatubo Spa Town, where they can experience volcanic mud therapies and treatments.

WRITTEN BY LADY MAY MARTINEZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY REIZEL & DAVID CORREA DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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Sinulog Festival HOW TO GET THERE Getting to Cebu is easy. There are direct flights from Manila daily and from other big cities in the world to its international airport located on Mactan Island.

Call it a fusion of the East and the West. Or an assimilation between pagan rituals and Catholic beliefs. Or a really, really old dance move. But for many Cebuanos nowadays, the Sinulog Festival is simply one, big party!

And everyone’s invited.

Held every third Sunday of January in Cebu City, Sinulog is an annual festival celebrated in honor of the miraculous image of the Santo Niño or the infant Jesus Christ. It is originally a dance ritual of the pre-historic natives of the island province, which is characterized by moving two steps forward and one step backward to the beat of the drums, trumpets, and gongs.

What not too many people know is that the term ‘Sinulog’ came from the word ‘sulog,’ which means water current or a small wave. Early Cebuanos used to revere their wooden statues by dancing in semblance of the current of what was then known as the Pahina River. This soon became a distinctive element in the now famous festival.

Highlight of the celebration is the street parade of people from all over Cebu who dance the Sinulog steps while shouting their petitions and thanksgiving to the Santo Niño. Pilgrims, dancers and other festival goers usually shout “Pit Señor!” or “Señor Santo Niño!” as they paint the town red.

Bright and colorful costumes made of fabric, beads, sequins, and other ingenious materials are worn by dancers as they perform in the street. They are usually accompanied by a band of musicians that play music so thunderous you would have to fight the urge to jump into the parade and dance to your heart’s content.

At the center of each performing group is a beautiful lady, dressed in the most visually stunning gown and sometimes adorned by an equally conspicuous head dress, who holds the small image of the Santo Niño.

The worship of the Señor can be traced to as early as the 16th century, when the Spaniards offered the image as a gift to Cebu’s Queen Juana. As the Philippines’ oldest icon, the Santo Niño is easily the most-loved image not just by Cebuanos but by majority of the Catholic Filipinos. It is as ubiquitous as the television set found in every house of a typical Filipino family.

The Sinulog is only one of the many festivals celebrated in the country to honor the infant Jesus. With its visual overload and heart-thumping sounds, the festival is considered as one of the grandest and happiest occasions in the Philippines’ calendar of events.

WRITTEN BY STENO A. PADILLA / PHOTOGRAPHED BY SANDY GABUTIN

DECEMBER & JANUARY 2014

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