BusinessMirror May 9, 2016

Tourism&Entertainment BusinessMirror

A10 Monday, May 9, 2016

Editor: Carla Mortel-Baricaua

MARCH FOR A VETERAN Dr. Mina T. Gabor

THE BM TRAVELER

I

(Part 1)

N April 1942 some 75,000 to 100,000 prisoners of war (POWs), mostly Filipinos and Americans, were forced to march from Bataan to Capas, Tarlac. With meager food, water and medicine, it is estimated around 20,000 Filipinos and 1,000 Americans died in this march.

Several Americans who survived the march were put on board ships referred to as “hell ships,” suffering the same deprivation of food, water and other necessities. The ship, without markers, would go in circuitous manner to prevent detection

on its way to Japan, becoming a target even by the American battleships, thus, losing more Americans.

According to military historian, PVAO Military Historian General Resty Aguilar (ret), around 500 Filipinos died every day at the Camp

O’Donnel concentration camp, where the Capas National Shrine is presently erected.

In early 2014 we came across an event in New Mexico, US, of a re enactment of the famous Bataan Death March. The report showed that this reenactment has been running for more than 20 years.

Started by the US veterans who were part of this long, arduous march, the organizers chose a site that closely resembled the terrain of Bataan, Pampanga and Tarlac.

With only a handful of marchers in the beginning, the annual event takes place in March and is now joined by more than 8,000 marchers and witnessed by thousands of spectators.

This is a 24-kilometer march through challenging high desert terrain in White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, with two individual categories: light and heavy. The light marches are mostly civilians in appropriate apparel and the heavy marches are in full battle outfit carrying a backpack of consumables weighing 16 kilograms and 35 pounds.

The consumables are distributed to homeless Americans at the end of the march.

The Automobile Association of the Philippines, the Philippine Veteran Affairs Office of the Department of National Defense, the Department of Tourism and Province of Tarlac felt left out, the very site of the actual death march. So in 2014 preparations for the holding of an annual commemoration of this event began.

Sue Staub, the head of the US event, was contacted and she immediately agreed to assist in the

planned event. She immediately dispatched the list of items needed and came up with a timetable for the event. This show of support made it easy for the organizers to launch the First Capas Freedom March in April 2015 in Tarlac with the support of Gov. Victor A. Yap, Capas Mayor Antonio Rodriguez, and tourism officer Marissa Vidal.

Close to 1,500 Filipino and American military and civilians participated in the first march. Asahi Shimbun sent their correspondents to cover the event. John Cutter, a radio commentator from Chicago, who came to march for his veteran friend, did a full coverage of the march. His exclusive interview of former President Fidel V. Ramos, who opened the event with a gun start at 5 a.m., was heard at the US military bases around the world.

The First Capas Freedom March was named as such to remember the sacrifices and the ordeal of the marchers for the freedom we now enjoy.

Dr. Mina T. Gabor was the founder and president of the Center for International Trade Exhibitions and Missions Inc. of the Department of Trade and Industry, and the secretary of the Department of Tourism from 1996 to 1998. She continues to work on her passion of promoting the Philippines through trade and tourism as the president of the International School of Sustainable Tourism, as founder and president of the Philippine Small and Medium Business Development Foundation Inc., and the president of the Automobile Association of the Philippines Travel Agency. For any feedback or assistance in developing your faith-based tourism, contact this writer at minagabor2010@gmail.com.

Hidden treasures of Soccsksargen revealed

THROUGH THE SILK ROAD AT MARCO POLO ORTIGAS MANILA

T

HE cultural journey from West to East marked a new milestone for Marco Polo Ortigas Manila with the hotel’s Silken Voices, Silken Roads: An Opera Gala Dinner.

Opera, cuisine and couture filled the halls of the Grand Ballroom of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila on April 18, as the hotel celebrates its second year anniversary with its first-ever grand affair, commemorating Marco Polo’s 24-year journey through the Silk Road.

The event was graced with elegantly dressed guests who experienced a travel from one region to another in one delightful evening.

The journey on the Silk Road began with a Venetian collection of couture pieces by Renee Salud, inspired by the place that impressed the young Marco Polo and made the boy embark on a long journey. As models stood in the middle of the grand ballroom, canapés from Spain, China and the Philippines were served, especially made by Executive Chef Lluis Pesarrodona. Chinese Black Marinated Fungus and Mahi Mahi Crudo were just some of the savory dishes served at the gala dinner.

The culinary journey continues with satisfying Italian Beef Tenderloin Carpaccio appetizer paired with a delightful 2014 Banfi Placido Pinot Grigio from Italy. Marco Polo then traveled through the Middle East. The region was an inspiration for the song, “Lakme,” for its distance and exoticness. This opera song was performed by Philippine Opera Company’s Karla Gutierrez and Marian Santiago. This also gave way for the feast of Baby Calamari and Roasted Duck, a walk through Asian cuisine. Continuing the journey through Middle East was violinist Joseph Brian Cimafranca with a contem-

porary piece “Kashmir,” while savory dish, the Chicken Kebab with orangeflavored hummus and dried fruits, was being at the dining tables.

Showcasing her versatile talent is Gerphil Flores, who sang “Un Bel Di,” the most famous aria from Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly,” followed by a dish that brought a taste of China, the Stir-fried Lapu-lapu, and Tiger Prawn in XO Sauce and Soft Tofu. The worldclass dish became even more enjoyable as Philippine Opera Company’s Marian Santiago, tenor Christian Nagaño and baritone Lawrence Jatayna, together with tenor Francisco Aseniero, sang the moving love songs, “Kismet” and “And This Is Beloved.”

China is truly one of the regions that fascinated Marco Polo with its rich culture. From the West, Marco’s homeland, to East, the land of endless discoveries, came together with Marco Polo Ortigas Manila’s version of a pasta medley, Lemon Ricotta Tortellini, and Fried Noodles with Scallops. The savory dish was followed by the very charming arias, “Yours Is My Heart Alone” and “When He Speaks,” sang by Francisco Aseniero.

After 23 years, Marco Polo returned to Italy, bringing a vast array of different cultures from the different regions he went to. Topping off the culinary journey were scrumptious desserts from the country that always brings the best of France. Joconde, a French-type cake made with layers of almond sponge soaked in coffee syrup, were enjoyed by guests while listening to “Funiculi Funicala” and “O Sole Mio.” In a single night, the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila was able to bring its guests from West to East, a successful cultural and culinary journey that marks the start of its annual celebration.

A T'BOLI woman doing the T'nalak weaving

DEPARTMENT of Tourism (DOT) 12 Regional Director Nelly Nita Dillera led the formal opening of the four-day expo after the traditional demsu (T’boli blessing ritual), together with DOT Director for Tourism Standards and Regulation Ma. Rica Bueno, Brand Arch. Amor Maclang of Geiser Maclang Consultancy and other partner agencies representatives.

S

By Leony R. Garcia

OCCSKSARGEN, or Sox, a collective term for Region 12’s South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City, recently showcased its undiscovered tourist attractions, food products and talents through the Treasures of Sox: A Travel and Trade Expo held from April 11 to 14 at the Glorietta Mall’s activity center in Ayala Center, Makati.

Soccsksargen is home to several indigenous peoples, such as the T’bolis, whose traditions has been preserved over time and offers a unique cultural experience. It is among the country’s top producers of corn, tuna, pineapple, coffee, muscovado, coconut oil, Cavendish

bananas, hogs and aquaculture products, and various production and processing plants of tropical fruits, like pomelo, mangosteen, durian, passion fruit, solo papaya, guyabano, cacao and lanzones.

The region has six tuna-exporting and -canning companies, exporter of black rice and pork in a box, Cavendish-processing plants, rubber, oil palm, coffee and muscovado. It is also home to Dole Philippines, a 65,000-hectare pineappleprocessing plant in Polomolok, South Cotabato.

Sox is famous for paragliding and scuba diving in Sarangani, and mountain climbing in South Cotabato; it also showcases Islamic culture in Cotabato City; and hosts several ecotourism sites in Cota-

bato Province and Sultan Kudarat.

General Santos City, on the other hand, is the country’s “Tuna Capital” and the region’s air and sea gateway with its international airport and seaport facilities.

Latest data from the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region XII shows that the region registered 3.15 million tourist arrivals in 2015, up from its 2.5 million in 2014.

Organized by the DOT, the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of the Labor and Employment, “Sox Food and Fashion Fair” is a display of some of the unique food products from Soccsksargen’s cultural communities.

According to DOT 12 Regional Director Nelly Nita Dillera, the

expo also celebrated the flavors of the Philippines, and showcased the region’s tourist spots, travel packages, native fabrics, diverse indigenous cultures, culinary delights, export-quality local brands and investment opportunities. The travel fairs featured the area’s tourist destinations, among them, the famed Lake Sebu in South Cotabato, Asik-Asik Falls and Mount Apo in North Cotabato and the white-sand beaches of Sarangani.

Business-matching sessions between tourism investments opportunities, local producers and exporters, and Manila-based tour operators and the Soccsksargen Tour Operators Association was also held.

Dillera said they have targeted to generate around P10 million in

CHIC creation by Jared Servano

sales for local products and another P10 million for tourism packages.

The packages include transportation, tourist guides, accommodation and food, and entrance fees to the tourist destinations.

To add color and excitement, daily cultural performances highlighting the region’s indigenous peoples and fashion shows were held. The local governments of Koronadal and South Cotabato have enlisted famed fashion designer

Jared Servano, who hails from the area, and showcased his works.

Aside from the nine local goverment units, some 30 other exhibitors from national government agencies and micro, small and medium enterprises participated in the expo, showcasing their respective products and advocacies.

Internationally acclaimed Hinugyaw Dance Troupe of Koronadal City also entertained the audience with Mindanao dances.

Tourism&Entertainment BusinessMirror

Editor: Carla Mortel-Baricaua

Monday, May 9, 2016 A11

PAGSANJAN AT A GLANCE

FAÇADE of Lady of Guadalupe Parish Church

ARCO Puerta Real is one of the iconic landmarks in Pagsanjan.

By Jonalyn Fulo Fortuno | Photos by Pauline Dycoco

P

AGSANJAN is one place I don’t mind going back to. It’s a mecca for history lovers, a secret spot for foodies and a goto venue for adventure junkies— all rolled into this charming town, off the eastern part of Laguna.

Unfortunately, I only got to spend very little time in this place, the first time I came to visit.

For someone who only knew this town for its signature spot, which is the Pagsanjan Falls, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that there’s much more to it than the stereotypical image I previously conjured for it. And I was even more surprised to discover that when it comes to food, Pagsanjan certainly does not disappoint. It’s all thanks to a 10-year-old restaurant, which allows tourists to get acquainted with the flavors of this town.

Calle Arco conveys a sense of home, from the dishes served down to the vintage furniture, family photographs and cozy vibe. Comfort reigns in every corner, and that is exactly what its owner Ana Cabrega wants the diners to feel the moment they step inside the restaurant.

“It’s a home-away-from-home kind of restaurant in which guests would be able to eat comfortably and enjoy generous servings. We serve local dishes with a twist, and I think

that could be among the reasons guests like to come back. We also take pride in our service, as well as the family collections, like those teapots, which have long been a source of fascination to diners.”

The cuisines are definitely worth every penny. Not because they represent the hometown specialties, but because they offer a glimpse of the Pagsanjeños’ culinary creativity. Among the must-try, signature dishes include its delectable appetizer, Paco salad with kesong puti; scrumptious main course, such as sinigang na baka sa langka, binagoongang crispy pata, garlic chicken, pipian (the restaurant’s version of kare-kare which has chicken on it, but no veggies) and pinakbet; and the restaurant’s own dessert, kamote de leche.

After the sumptuous meal, we took a quick look around the town.

And because nothing beats getting to know a destination better than

JUMP-OFF point to Pagsanjan Falls

CALLE Arco exudes a homey feel

PINOY’S all-time favorite pinakbet

GARLIC chicken

BINAGOONGANG crispy pata

PACO salad with kesong puti

a quick visit to its heritage sites and historic churches, we headed first to Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Church. This one is considered to be the oldest of its kind in the country. It features a Renaissance architecture style that seems to be the running motif for centuries-old churches. As the town’s only Catholic church, it is not surprising if tourists would take such interest in this structure, especially the stone relic that it houses. Locals say the relic was part of the hill’s portion in Mexico where the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared, and it was later on transferred to Pagsanjan for safekeeping.

Next, we swung by the ancestral house of the Ejercitos, more popu-

larly known as the Don Porong Mansion. It was said that back in Pagsanjan’s heyday, well-heeled locals had a penchant for all things grandeur— from beautifully designed homes and an array of artwork collections to neatly manicured lawns and gardens. And this well-preserved grand ancestral home is a testament to that, offering a glimpse of how the Pagsanjeños, particularly the privileged clans of days long past, took much pride in building splendid abode.

Eager to see more of the town, we also checked out the Arco Puerta Real, said to be one of the town’s most significant landmarks. This stone gate has a religious significance that would surely rouse the

interest of faith travelers. Stories have it that back in 1877, the town was attacked by bandits attempting to loot and pillage. But just when they were about to plunder the town, there came a luminous apparition of a lady with a shining sword. It was believed to be the Pagsanjan’s patroness, Our Lady of Guadalupe. And to commemorate the miraculous event, the locals built the stone gate in the very same spot where the patroness left a mark using her sword.

After the heritage tour, we wandered far down to Pagsanjan Falls’ jump-off point, where two rivers, namely, Bumbungan and Balanac, meet. Pagsanjan was originally called pinagsangahan, a Filipino

term for “branching,” which also aptly described how the two rivers branched off. The spot was also once a trading route when Pagsanjan was still the capital of Laguna. Today, however, it serves as a gateway for those who want to get to the falls and experience the adrenaline-pumping activity called shooting the rapids. It is similar to whitewater rafting only that the boat is made of fiberglass and manned by two bangkero (boatmen) who have to skillfully navigate all through 14 rapids. It could have been the highlight of our trip, but we were not able to try the ride due to time-constraint. But then, this gives me yet another reason to visit the town again.

Fiesta-like welcome for two international cruise ships Photos by Rommel Natanauan & Larry Moran, DOT-MCS

O

VER a thousand international tourists, including Filipino officers and crew members, aboard cruise ships MV Seabourn Soujourn and MV Prestige Cruises-Insignia that stopped for a port call at the Manila South Harbor on April 6 and 17, were treated to a fiesta-like reception upon arrival by the Department of Tourism (DOT) as part of the Meet and Assist Program of the National Capital Region (NCR) Office.

From Manila, cruise passengers went on a tour of the City of Manila and nearby tourist destinations, like Tagaytay and Corregidor, arranged by Travel People Ltd. Inc., before proceeding to their next port call.

“The MV Prestige Cruises-Insignia is the 15th international cruise vessel to arrive in the Manila South Harbor this first quarter, in addition to the MV Seabourn Soujourn that docked at the same port recently. Outside Manila, there have been other cruise

MEMBERS of the Dinagyang performers from Jaro Iloilo National High School

MV Prestige Cruises-Insignia

arrivals recorded in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Boracay and Kalanggaman,” NCR Director Christer Gaudiano said at the welcome reception of MV Prestige Cruises-Insignia.

“This time, we brought in performers from different parts of our country; and samples of our local handicrafts, particularly those made in Parañaque, Marikina and Manila, in partnership

office has already received requests from Baron Travel for the arrival of two Royal Caribbean cruise ships that will make several port calls in Manila beginning this month. The Legend of the Seas, carrying approximately 2,200 passengers, will be docking in Manila five times from May to October this year. And the Celebrity Millennium, carrying over 2,500 passengers,

with their respective local government units, as our way of helping them showcase their livelihood products to the international market,” he added, explaining that the Meet and Assist Program covers both airports and seaports.

According to him, over 70 ship calls are expected to arrive this year in the port of Manila alone. The DOT-NCR

will call at the port of Manila by yearend. Pacific Venus, a Japanese cruise ship, has also sent word of its scheduled arrival in the port of Manila later this year, carrying more than 500 senior citizens and their family members onboard.

Chris Achton of Adelaide, South Australia, who came with his wife, to meet an old friend based in Manila,

only had good words to say about the fiesta-like reception at the Manila South Harbor. “This is absolutely fantastic and, by far, the best welcome I have ever had in any port in the world I have been. Absolutely wonderful! Wonderful people; great welcome,” the first-time visitor in Manila said.

Cruise tourism is one of the key product portfolios identified under the National Tourism Development Plan of the DOT. The department’s cruise tourism campaign, capitalizing on the country’s rich coastal resources, has delivered significant gains and success with the visit of several major cruise ships. According to the latest data from the DOT, more than 50 port calls were registered in 2015, resulting in an 18.8-percent increase over the 2014 recorded 44 port calls. Cruise passengers, on the other hand, continue to grow with 69,802 arrivals in 2015, growing by 15.98 percent as compared with the 2014 arrivals of 60,183.