ILLUSTRADO Magazine April 2008

The Magazine for the International Filipino

APRIL 15 - MAY 15 2008

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Beautiful Philippines

PHILIPPINE TOURISM TODAY DIGGING DEEP IN THE PHILIPPINES BAKASYON GRANDE SPECIAL FEATURE SPECIAL PROPERTY FEATURE FASHION: POSTCARDS FROM LAGUNA ONLI IN DA PILIPINS THE ANNIE B. CHRONICLES

EDITOR’S NOTE

Paint your picture …

Are you sick and tired of seeing all those depressing pictures of the Philippines? Every time you look in the papers you are disheartened by the sight of our country’s slums, the filthy floods, and vagrants on dirty sidewalks. Other days its pictures of an angry mob of people rallying, errant political figures, the polluted waters of the Pasig River, and what is probably the most famous view of our country to the outside world - our less than fortunate kababayans trying to eke out a living from the gigantic detritus that is Smokey Mountain.

It’s not that one would want to deny that these are part and parcel of our national reality. What is a pity is that this onesided view is all people on the outside see, and therefore all they have as a point of reference, when they think about our country.

The good thing is that we know better.

Most of us are well aware of the innate beauty that lies within our little known archipelago. Most of us appreciate that we have a country that is exceptionally blessed with abundance within its 7,107 islands. Our home has features as diverse as mountains, tropical forests, beautiful beaches and unspoilt bodies of water, volcanoes, manmade wonders, rich flora and fauna on the ground and in the deep blue sea. We have a place that is so interestingly eclectic that it can be a good destination whether you’re a business person or holiday maker, a medical patient or honeymooners, a person up for action and entertainment or simply someone who’s looking for some restful or even meaningful downtime.

has its own pace and the colors of the landscape pervades from the scenery to the people.

So what do you do with this entire collection of memories and remembered views and knowledge of things we know but haven’t even had the chance to discover within our fair isles?

You share it with the rest of the world by painting your own picture.

And paint an extensive picture we have, in this visual feast of an issue - the second release of Illustrado’s Beautiful Philippines, which shows what lies beyond the saddening and disturbing images we are normally bombarded with.

You definitely see a more balanced perspective and realize that there is so much goodness on offer, if you only took the time to look closely, and perhaps one of these days, experience yourself, more of the awesome sights and sounds of the Philippines.

What’s more, Beautiful Philippines is not only for your own reading pleasure, but indeed, a piece to share with your multicultural friends. So, indeed, you too can have your take – a chance of painting your very own big picture of the place we call our home.

My dear Illustrados, feast your eyes on this, while you relax (or pretend to!) during the season of Bakasyon Grande.

Taas Noo Filipino!

And if you’re like me, the mystique and attachment to this lovely place can be as simple as remembering childhood summers spent in the laidback quaint countryside - where life

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Send your letters to: editor@illustrado.net More power to Illustrado!

Best regards, Rosemarie Tacorda, Dubai

Hello Illustrados, Greetings!

Dear Lalaine,

I got hold of your magazine during our International Day Celebration at the Emirates International School Meadows. I was so happy and proud to have read a copy of Illustrado magazine from our talented Ms. Lalaine, the Publisher and Editor of this very inspiring magazine that makes us Filipinos more energetic in ensuring that our job is well done, and that we are proud of being a Pinoy in a foreign country.

I have been meaning to send Illustrado a letter but for some reasons I just keep forgetting until another issue comes up again. By then, my ‘reaction’ to a particular issue would be outdated already.

In this regard, please include our school library in your mailing list for future releases so that we may show our international students a good magazine from our multitalented fellow kababayans here in United Arab Emirates.

At last, here it is now…

Thanks and best regards,

I always read the Editor’s Note before flicking through the pages of the magazine, and every time, I find myself agreeing with you 100%.

It’s like reading my own thoughts and feeling the feelings that I have always inside me but couldn’t articulate. It’s so amazing how the Editor’s Note could echo what’s inside my head and in my heart without us having any prior conversation about the topic.

Maria HS Librarian Emirates International School-Meadows Dubai, UAE

When you featured ‘ULAN’ it brought me back to my childhood – during those rainy days when I used to take a nap with the windows open so I could feel the drizzles on my face.

I miss it so much being here in Dubai, so reading your Editor’s Note about ‘ULAN’ made me relive so many happy memories again.

Dear Editor,

Your article about ‘MANILA’ is so spot-on! I was also in Manila almost at the same time you were there and yes I have seen that ad where you get free crispy pata when you apply for a credit card. And YES - despite the traffic, pollution and the heat I still keep coming back!

And now, reading the Editor’s Note about ‘WOMEN of SUBSTANCE’, I couldn’t help but smile yet again, nodding repeatedly whilst reading the Editors Note. YES – ‘I am a woman, a man’s equal…’ and YES – ‘It takes a strong, confident gentleman to make a woman grow happy and fulfilled to her greatest potential’.

I’m living it! I’m so grateful to God for giving me my husband, the kind of man who allows me to shine. My husband, the wind beneath my wings.

On Illustrado’s Women of Substance Event

For the first time, it is good to see Filipina women being portrayed with such admiration and respect in the media.

It’s about time.

Congrats again and by the way, the Annie B Chronicles for the month was hilarious!!!!

Regards to everyone!

With kind regards, Anna T. de Leon, Dubai

Dear Lalaine Just a quick note to say “thank you” for a wonderful afternoon yesterday! Obviously this event will become an annual one and deservedly so. It was terrific to hear about all those fantastic women who have achieved so much in their own fields, I felt very humble to have been invited to such a prestigious occasion.

Anyway thanks once again and many congratulations for organizing and hosting such an important event - you did a terrific job!

Kind regards Nicola Bamford Emirates International School-Meadows Dubai, UAE

Thank you for your noble efforts.

Edilberto dela Cruz, Abu Dhabi

Dear Lalaine,

Dear Lalaine,

Thank you so much for making me a part of the Illustrado event yesterday. It was an honor and a real pleasure to have been part of it.

I would like to congratulate and the entire team for yesterdays’ event. My friend was inspired by the stories of the women that you featured and it all the more strengthened my belief that we are definitely not the weaker sex.

Hopefully, we get more events like these, which are not purely social but something that addresses issues that Filipino expats face.

Kudos to everyone at Illustrado for making it happen!

And a special big thank you for a job well done - I know what it takes to put up such an event and we hope you guys continue what you have started. We need more Pinoys like you.

Talagang nakataas ang noo!

Lucille Ong, Dubai

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dearest Lalaine, I would like to congratulate you for a most inspiring event last Saturday at the ShangriLa. Even though I was not able to attend, the response from people is overwhelming!

I’m very proud of you and the staff of Illustrado for doing something with great taste and class, while uplifting our fellow kabayans.

It’s really nice to see and read great things from your magazine.

May you continue to bless other lives and be an inspiration to all Filipinos!

Thanks, EZRA Dubai

Warm Regards, Clare Taylor Emirates International School-Meadows Dubai, UAE

We went to the event last Saturday at Shangri-La and I was really (and still am) inspired by how you and all those women embodied what a Filipino should be.

Thank you!

Teresa Lacuanan Dubai

Dear Lalaine, Hi Lalaine, What a privilege it is to meet you, during that event at the Shangri-la. I really appreciate the way you carry yourself and the way you have presented that event. You were so motivating. I was so much encouraged.

Thanks so much and more power to you. God bless you!

It was indeed a pleasure to be part of Illustrado’s Woman of Substance Event.

You deserve to be one of them on that stage and the entire credit for its success goes to you.

Best regards,

Congratulations on a successful and well organized event.

But lately, a group of Ladies who were also present at the function would also like to share some ideas and are willing to assist in your Projects. Let’s refer to them as the ‘Illustrado Ladies.’

Best regards Richie Burley Dubai Duty Free Dubai

Dear All, Dear Lalaine,

On behalf of myself and the other EIS teachers I would like to say a huge thank you for yesterday. It was a lovely afternoon, very inspiring and all the speakers were captivating and charismatic.

I am not business-minded at all, but I sincerely want to help uplift the Filipino spirit here and at home. After more than two decades of my residency in Dubai and at Dubai Duty Free, I think it is about time to do my share as a concerned Filipino. I have never been active in any Filipino organizations as I am ever busy at the workfront on DDF-related events and promotions that is why you see me everywhere.

Oofrish Contractor Dubai

Yvonne Alts Dubai

Dear Lalaine,

such as visitors expecting to see ‘Philippines– made’ products, it is a sad sight to see mostly merchandise from other countries on sale when we do have a lot to offer. I believe that the Philippines Pavilion is one good medium to showcase Philippines.

First, I’d like to congratulate you for a very well-organized presentation of the ‘Woman of Substance’ last Saturday. Lalaine, you never fail to impress me - I believe in your work and will always support Illustrado for as long as I can.

Your guest speakers were all so inspiring – after Lucille’s inspirational talk – we cannot help but reflect on what she said about the Philippine Pavilion at the Global Village. Like most comments on the Philippine Pavilion,

Thank you for your generous words of praise which make our work so much more worthwhile.

I must say that I am very fortunate to be surrounded by such a passionate, hardworking and fun team that can make things happen.

The full credit for this successful event goes to the entire Illustrado crew.

More good stuff to come… watch this space!

With warm regards, Ed.

CONTRIBUTORS

Al Benavente

Capturing the beautiful Philippine countryside for this issue’s combined fashion and tourism feature is photographer Al Benavente. Al stumbled into photography by way of freelance weekend jobs covering events, while working in animation. Now a full-pledged photographer involved with several agencies doing projects for brochures, magazines and coffee table books, Al’s main interest lies in portraying the Philippines’ varied and lush landscapes with a particular thrust in promoting tourism in our lovely provinces.

Jovy Tuaño Jovy Tuano is a CPA – Project Manager and a leading Senior Property Consultant engaged in providing professional real estate services to UAE residents who wish to invest in Philippine properties. He regularly conducts his innovative‘Basic Real Estate Sales Training (B/REST) Program’ for brokers and agents based in the emirates to help professionalize the aggressively growing niche market. Jovy is concurrently the Chairman of the Philippine Business Council in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi and is the Managing Director of Asia Gulf Trading & Commercial Brokerage, LLC. Jovy, as featured in our Kabuhayan Column this month, answers frequently asked questions on buying property in the Philippines.

Isabelo Samonte

Isabelo A. Samonte is a freelance writer, consultant and PR practitioner, formerly with the United Nations/International Labor Organization (UN/ILO) in Manila. He has written for ILO World of Work based in Geneva, the Asian Review of Business and Technology in London, and Philippine based magazines SME Insight, Panorama, and Graphic. He has past affiliations with the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) and has served as consultant for Senator Ramon B. Magsaysay Jr. He is also a resource person for local and international organizations like Apostleship of the Sea (AOS). A thoroughly seasoned professional with expertise in a diverse range of topics Isabelo writes about the prospects of the Philippine tourism market in this issue’s cover story.

Aby Yap Ex-Dubai resident Aby Yap has recently returned to Manila after a one-year stint abroad. Although her job as an editor of automotive-related copy for an online marketing company is the one that pays the bills, she persists that her real work consists of her weaving of stories for young and old alike. Sometimes hilarious and sometimes disturbing (depending on how you look at it), her stories about the “kakalokang” Pinoy culture have recently made their new home in the pages of Illustrado, in a cheeky column we like to call ‘Onli in da Pilipins.’

Mariyah Gaspacho Overseas Pinoy Professional Photographers Society (OPPPS) active member Mariyah Gaspacho is as promising, committed and energetic as any budding photographer could be. A non-practicing interior designer by discipline who works as a Magazine Coordinator at the Dubai Media City, the girl who ‘still’ calls herself a ‘frustrated photographer’ invests a lot of time honing her chosen craft and helping other enthusiasts – through endless shoots and training opportunities. Mariyah with collaborator John Hipolito captures the excitement of last month’s Illustrado’s Women of Substance Event, as shown in our Community Event column.

Bernadette Reyes Illustrado’s perennial ‘Kabuhayan’ girl diverts from her usual column to write about the growing aesthetic surgery industry as well the up and coming category of bariatrics in the Philippines.

A TV reporter for GMA Network, Bernadette is also an active contributor in various local business publications, and was a former business reporter for Today Independent News where she covered the Philippine Stock Exchange and the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Publisher & Editor-in Chief Lalaine Chu-Benitez Assistant Editor Mikkel Bolante Art Directors Paula Lorenzo Ron Perez Contributing Writers Philippines & Singapore Carlito Viriña David Llorito Bernadette Reyes Law Diche Lisa Cruz Mike Martin Jan La’O David Poarch Aby Yap Ivan Henares Gabbie dela Rama-Talan Chayie Maligalig Apple Lopez Karen Galarpe Vic Lactaoen United Arab Emirates Maripaz Febrero Giselle Estrada Dawn Almario Sonny de Guzman Antonella Andrada Shar Matingka Jonie Jose Michael Vincent Serrano Contributing Photographers Philippines Marlon Pecjo Charles Lu United Arab Emirates Pot Ph Illuminado Ong Monina Uy Joel Guerrero Kris Lee Mariyah Gaspacho Contributing Stylist Zekundo Chu Janet dela Fuente Advertising & Retail Sales Michael Maguigad Publisher Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC 2nd Floor, Building 2 P.O. Box 72280 Office 20C Dubai Media City, U.A.E. Tel: + 9714 365 4547 Fax: + 9714 360 4771 email: admin@illustrado.net Website: illustrado.net Printers Delta Printing Press L.L.C. P.O. Box 37140 Dubai, U.A.E. Copyright Illustrado Communications 2007.

All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission of Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC

April08 CONTENTS Features Philippine Tourism Today 8 Medical Tourism 12 Cosmetic Surgery in the Philippines 14 Curing Obesity 16 Mining: Digging Deep in the Philippines 18

Columns Editor’s Note 1 Contributors 6 Letters to the Editor 4 Famous Filipinos 20 Kabuhayan: Buying Property in the Philippines 22 Property Feature 24 Successful Pinoy: Kung Pinoy Ka, Sigaw Na 34 Community Event 60 Community Spotlight 62 Onli in da Pilipins 86 The Annie B. Chronicles 88 Usapang Kanto 90

36 Illustrado showcases the beauty of the province of Laguna and this season’s hottest fashions from Manila in an out-of-the-ordinary style feature.

14

Fashion Postcards From Laguna 36 Bench: A Philippine Global Fashion Brand 54 Manila Fame International: Asia’s Best Design Destination 58

Places Bakasyon Grande Special Feature: Beautiful Philippines 64 Manila Trippin’: Travel Café 84

Entertainment The Dorques 92 Hot Releases 93

64

8 FEATURE

Philippine Tourism Today

By Isabelo A. Samonte

The Philippines remains extremely attractive and competitive in the world tourism market today. No country in the world especially an archipelago of 1,107 amazing islands with 88 million people with a 93% literacy rate would ever be a stranger to visitors.

Situated in Asia, the country’s statistics showed present economic growth rate at 7.3% with millions of new jobs created and unemployment is at 6.3%. Today, Asia accounts for over 60% of the world’s population and a quarter of exports and global GDP. The Philippines is part of East Asia which is the most populous region with yearly growth rate average of over 7%. Investmentwise, the Philippines is bullish with increases from the previous year in revenues by 16%, exports by 21.4% (US$4.5 B), and investments by 29% (PHP349B). If today, most Asian economies aspire to increase their share of the tourism industry, the more stimulating of them all is the Philippine market.

Tourism outlook Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano, a young lawyer and former Cebu solon revealed through Inquirer.net, that he envisions tourism as becoming the number one industry in the country. The Philippine prospect is promising with yearly increase in arrivals from 1.19M in 2004, to 2.6M in 2005, and 2.84M in 2006. Tourism

receipts in 2007 reportedly reached US$4.9B with 3.4M visitors.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) attributed this rise in revenue to long-staying and high spending visitors. The DOT reportedly expects the quota of US$5.8B of tourist spending to be highly achievable by 2008. The more interesting challenge is by 2010 when Philippines expect 5M tourists.

Lifestyle trends Of the 3.4M visitors in the Philippines today, over 18% reportedly came from the USA and Canada. While over 1% are from European countries such as the UK, Germany, and Scandinavia. Not only are Japanese, Chinese and Taiwanese the perennial visitors for business, shopping and pleasure trips. Now the Russians are coming as well for leisure and shopping. The Koreans however are more for business and education. Our neighbors are the major markets of Europe which remain a Philippine challenge. Tourism in Asia is lagging behind Europe and America in terms of the market share in international tourism.

FEATURE 9

Tourism strategies and investments Heritage development Competition opportunities International tourism in the Asia Pacific region is increasing. Being ranked 6th in ASEAN destinations, the Philippine challenge is to catch up with developing economies like Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the newly industrialized state of Singapore. In the Asia Pacific region, in addition to the tough competition of ASEAN developing economies, the other leading tourist destinations ahead of the Philippines are in the Chinese circuit. Specifically, this includes the transforming economies of Hong Kong, China, Macau, and Taiwan plus the newly industrialized economy of Korea, as well as the developed economies of Australia, and Japan.

As early as 1997, travel and tourism has contributed 8.7% of GDP in the Philippines and was expected to pass the 11% mark by 2008.

By then, it is expected that tourism could generate another million and a half jobs. The government is undertaking more competitive tourism promotion and opened up air travel policies to bolster the services sector. The country will now have cross-border packages with various East Asian countries as well as with Hong Kong.

Investment-wise the country’s gross capital placements during the first 10 months last year reached US$2.1B. These were infused into manufacturing, services, construction, real estate, financing, and agricultural industries. The bulk came from USA, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Germany and the United Kingdom. The reinvestments of earnings have increased by 44.3% to local enterprises with reverse capital outflow to a net of US$321 million.

Heritage development is a key tourism strategy in this country where there is a wealth of historical elements, culture and arts.

Visitors are interested in native traditions, events and preserved and recovered edifices, as well as the transformation of cultural heritage sites into booming and bustling centers. Centuries-old architecture and artifacts, for instance, in the Ilocos region won praises from visitors.

The thrust of heritage tourism is the promotion of historical sites transformed into tourist spots like the Spanish fortress in Zamboanga, the University of Santo Tomas – a university 25 years older than Harvard, the famous lighthouse in Pagudpud created before modern electronic navigation, and the train terminal in Tutuban transformed into shopping bazaar.

The Walled City of Intramuros best illustrates the tourism market makeover of a heritage site. It is now surrounded by golf courses along the historic Manila Hotel and the Rizal Park. It preserves the Spanish ambience with well-preserved architecture, horse driven carriages and cobbled pavements of the old San Agustin Church, the Manila Cathedral and Fort Santiago where Dr. Rizal stayed before his martyrdom. The Walled City has many potential areas for redevelopment into gardens, theatres, shops and boutiques.

In Ilocos Sur, the Spanish pueblo, City of Vigan which showcases the influences of the Iberian, American and Asian cultures is now in the UNESCO World Heritage list. The businesses, shops and boutiques in Intramuros and Vigan have excellent potential to

10 FEATURE

A MALAY HOUSE

promote enterprise and indigenous knowledge through native products, food and drinks.

Event-based tourism in the Philippines is more on traditional religious events. Visitors enjoy immersing themselves in traditions like the Flores de Mayo festival, Santacruzan, Moriones, the Black Nazarene, as well as the nationwide devotion to the Sto. Nino, which illustrate Filipino spirituality amidst the festive community mood. All around the Philippines, provinces from north to south also celebrate fiestas which are real treats to tourists, the more popular of which are the Panagbenga flower fest in Baguio, the Pahiyas harvest fest in Lucban, the Pintados tattoo festival in Tacloban, and the Maskara fest in Bacolod, among others.

Other heritage strategies are focused on war memorials. Foremost is the Phil-American fortress at Corregidor with guns like Navarone now silenced as war relics with a museum and hotel. It has the ruins of the largest American army barracks in the Far East used

by General Douglas MacArthur. The heroes’ cemetery at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig is also an important memorial. Monuments and birth places of heroes and famous persons like the Rizal Park in Luneta and the Rizal shrine in Calamba are popular spots.

During Independence Day celebrations, tourists visit the General Emilio Aguinaldo shrine in Kawit, Cavite, a potential museum that could be recreated reminiscent of Bonaparte’s museum in Paris or MacArthur’s exhibits in Corregidor.

Town planning and real estate redevelopment The country’s most important tourist sites in Metro Manila are the dozens of cities, towns and urban enclaves with chains of shopping malls that have served as engines for growth. Many of these cities have undergone redevelopment.

The enclaves have business shopping centers and condo-residences and villages. Areas like Rockwell and Greenbelt in Makati,

Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, Eastwood and Ortigas Center in Pasig, Araneta Center in Quezon City, the Greenhills business center in San Juan, Alabang business center in Muntinglupa and the Riverbank in Marikina, all demonstrate these redevelopment trends.

Education is another attraction in the Philippines with the English language medium of instruction as an important factor. Chinese and Asian students are now joined by an influx of Korean students accompanied by families. It is not only the international schools but other knowledge centers of excellence which have showcased the high quality of education in the country. The top three university belts in the city of Manila have about 10 institutions along Recto and Mendiola Streets, about five schools along the Ramon Magsaysay Boulevard in Sta. Mesa, and about 10 schools along the Taft Avenue area. One school relocated at the Manila Bay reclaimed area. A decongestion move relocated five campuses outside Manila creating new university belts in Makati City, three in Fairview, Quezon City and one each in Muntinglupa, Las Pinas City, and in Greenhills, San Juan. The trend in Quezon City is for a Silicon Valley-type of redevelopment along the Ateneo-State University belt in Katipunan Road. Various cities and provinces are also developing their own educational centers of excellence.

On the prospects of medical tourism, the pioneering centers are the University of Santo Tomas (Manila), St. Luke’s Hospital (Quezon City), Medical City (Pasig), Makati Medical Center (Makati) and the Asian Hospital (Muntinglupa). About five years ago visitors from South Pacific countries regularly availed medical services from these hospitals during the course of their study tours. Now various centers are having redevelopment in line with the government’s medical tourism program. Premier centers could join the call with eight hospitals in Manila; six hospitals in Quezon City, two each in Makati and Muntinlupa, one each in Pasig, Las Pinas, and San Juan.

FEATURE 11 A massive redevelopment project in the City of Manila is happening at the bay area. Ocean Park a waterfront project underway is being spearheaded by SM Mall of Asia, slated to have a theme park and high end entertainment establishments. This has triggered similar private initiatives nearby for low cost seaside wet market restaurants. The growth of tourism establishments could also be observed in the Convention and Cultural Center Complex and along the Baywalk strip towards the US Embassy.

Foremost on the list of destinations is Boracay which reportedly accommodates an estimated 27,000 visitors during peak season.

There are talks about the creation of an adjoining island to expand accommodation. Another equally beautiful beach with airport in the pipeline is Panglao Island in Bohol, one of the best marine dives. Possible side visits include the famous Chocolate Hills, with the unique tarsiers considered one of the smallest primates in the world.

Other cities have their own projects. The convergence of two railway trains in Cubao, Quezon City led the redevelopment of the Araneta Business Center. Condominiums and interconnected shopping malls have supplemented the popular sports arena, Araneta Coliseum. Quezon City also has IT development sites initiated by the University of the Philippines at Commonwealth Avenue. The EDSA strip from Ortigas Avenue to Guadalupe in Mandaluyong City has tremendously transformed the skyline with the sprouting of malls, hotels, IT centers and high rise buildings.

Marikina has made progress in town planning and revitalized its shoe industry and the shopping mall at Riverbank. Paranaque, Las Pinas and Muntinlupa have new modern business centers, commercial shopping malls, and world class residential villages particularly in Alabang.

In Luzon some of the beautiful beaches lie in Cavite, Batangas, Zambales, Ilocos Norte, Zambales, as well as Pangasinan – which is famous for the Hundred Islands. Other Philippine islands with good beaches are Palawan, Mindoro and Batanes. While Batanes is a nesting site of rare marine creatures like sea turtles, Palawan is known for its subterranean cave, while Mindoro is known for a rare breed of buffalos called tamaraws.

Natural Beauty, wild life, leisure and industry The Philippines’ original natural wonders, the Banawe Rice Terraces, Mayon Volcano, and Pagsanjan Falls remain on top of the country’s best destinations list. The Rice Terraces with spectacular mountain view enveloped by cool climate is now undergoing restoration. It is now listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

Mayon Volcano with its majestic beauty continues to transform with the fury of its recent eruptions. Pagsanjan Falls still attracts tourists to its pristine and refreshing sights.

In the last five years, there has been tremendous change in Tagaytay City. Now tourists can enjoy the cool climate and breathtaking view of the Taal Lake and volcano, with first class amenities in the many hotels, resorts, restaurants and picnic grounds including high-end vacation or residential areas. A famous haunt is the world class Tagaytay Highlands with golf courses and ranch. Food attractions in the city include fish from the fresh water Taal Lake like tawilis and maliputo. The city is also known for beef bone marrow soup, as well as organic produce, as well as the country’s barako coffee, not to mention world class Philippine mango wine and coffee wine.

Baguio, country’s summer capital, continues to retain its allure.

The city is blessed with cool climate, abundant pine trees, parks like Burnham Park, Mines View and lush flower and botanical gardens. There are many hotels and golf courses including an educational and convention center, as well as the country’s premier military academy. Baguio farms are abundant with various fruit and vegetables, while the city’s natives have their own distinctive and popular tribal art and products.

Cebu and Davao are cities known for flowers, orchids and beautiful spots. These cities are convention sites with five star hotel facilities.

In Mandaue there are beautiful beaches and an economic zone. Cebu manufactures dried mangoes but the exported sweetest Philippine mangoes come from Guimaras. Davao is known for tuna along with General Santos. Davao is the home of many tropical fruits, like bananas and durian. Other tourist and economic zones like Clark in Pampanga and Subic Bay in Olongap were redeveloped former US military bases with good public works and infrastructures.

These enclaves have five-star hotels, shopping malls, international airports, casinos, restaurants and residential villages. Near Clark, one can view herds of migratory birds in Candaba swamps like the shallows in Capistrano. Subic Bay has good beaches and forest reserves including wild animals like monkeys and bats.

Certainly, the Philippine is known for its beautiful beaches.

Scanning the road map for international tourism in the Philippines today shows that prospects are highly competitive. While the market is already innately attractive, innovative concepts and policies are promoting further development. Improved approaches and strategies, as well as increased investments are serving to fine tune our country with world tourism. All these should increase arrivals, create more jobs, generate more income, and further investments and infrastructures, which will have an overall strong positive impact on the economy.

12 FEATURE

First World Treatment, Third World Prices A Look at the Philippines’ Growing Medical Tourism Industry In today’s day and age when prices of US healthcare services is skyrocketing, the Philippines is opening its doors to medical tourists offering a more affordable alternative for their medical and leisure needs.

By Bernadette Reyes

Manila, such as Cebu and Davao are offering even more competitive rates. A coronary bypass surgery in these cities will usually cost only US$10,000 or about half of the typical cost in countries outside the Philippines. The lower cost may be explained by the lower overheads and professional fees charged by Filipino doctors in the country.

The Philippines is also home to some of the best hospitals and stand alone specialty clinics in the world, offering world-class expertise paired with state-of-the-art facilities. The Philippine Government through the Philippine Medical Tourism Program (PMTP) has formed alliances with private and public hospitals to promote medical tourism. Created through, Executive Order No. 372 by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in 2004, PMTP is a private-public initiative aimed at attracting foreign clients to the Philippines for their needed medical care and vacation.

In 2004, the total national health expenditures rose 7.9 percent in the US, over three times the rate of inflation. Total health care spending reached US$1.9 trillion in 2004 or US$6,280 per person diverting the attention of medical tourists to other countries where cost is more affordable. These include Greece, South Africa, Jordan, India, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines.

Medical tourism is a recent concept that fuses together the provisions of cost-effective medical care with that of tourism. Medical care may range from traditional health and wellness needs to alternative health care such as acupuncture, herbal medicine and neutraceuticals, coupled with either short-term or long-term tourist packages in international health zones where foreign patients can recuperate and even retire. In the Philippines, the most common procedures so far, are cosmetic and plastic surgery, dermatology, weight loss surgery, ophthalmology, and dentistry.

Of the countries offering quality medical tourism programs, the Philippines is fast-becoming the destination of choice for health and vacation because of its world class physicians, modern technology, and that uniquely Filipino brand of caring and compassion at a fraction of the cost in developed countries such as the US, Canada, UK and other European countries without necessarily sacrificing quality. A general checkup in the United States costs US$5,000 on the average while it will cost only the equivalent of US$500 in Philippine hospitals. Other medical procedures such as kidney transplants can reach up to US$150,000 abroad while it will only cost roughly about US$25,000 in the country while liposuction in offshore countries usually costs over US$25,000 while the same procedure would only cost US$4,000 in local clinics. Hospitals in key cities outside

St. Luke’s Medical Center, Asian Hospital, Medical City, Makati Medical Center, Capitol Medical Center, Lung Center, Philippine Heart Center, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, Philippine Children’s Medical Center and East Avenue Medical are some of the local hospitals which offer holistic treatment in hotel-like atmosphere, equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities and staffed by topnotch and friendly professionals who provide comprehensive and personalized services. Filipino doctors study in some of the best medical schools, with many of them staying in the US and Japan to obtain further medical exposure and experience, to reinforce their competitiveness among the most capable physicians in the world.

Filipino nurses on the other hand are also one of the best, evidenced by the strong demand for their services and skills in around the world.

Besides competence, they are also known for the distinct Filipino warmth and their compassion for patients.

After the medical procedure and treatment has been satisfied, tourists may choose to pamper themselves in some of the world’s best spa retreat resorts and tour destinations in the Philippines giving them the chance to rest and recuperate while taking advantage of what the country has to offer.

According to the Department of Tourism (DOT) medical tourists from the Pacific Islands such as Guam, Saipan, Marshall Islands and Hawaii, and even balikbayans from mainland USA and Canada and Middle East have become the traditional markets for medical tourism in the Philippines. Not only do they enjoy the hospitality of Filipinos and the vacation tours in the islands, they are also given the option to retire in the Philippines where cost of living is affordable.

Only a year following the launch of the medical tourism endeavor in the Philippines, the industry has generated about US$200M in 2006 as against the $125M target for the year.

Today, the government is currently working closely with the private sector on a massive marketing plan to launch Philippine medical tourism abroad. An estimated revenue of US$1B (approximately PHP40B) is projected in the next five to 10 years should the industry evolve as planned without losing track of the country’s main objective to provide “First World treatment” at “Third World prices”.

14 FEATURE

Cosmetic Surgery in the Philippines GONE ARE THE DAYS WHEN OLD BEAUTY PRACTICES SUCH AS BRUSHING THE HAIR TO MAKE IT SHINY OR TRIMMING EYELASHES TO MAKE THEM GROW LONGER SEEM PLAUSIBLE. TODAY, SCIENCE HAS TAKEN PRECEDENCE OVER SOME OF THE GREATEST MYTHS SPUN

BY OUR GRANDPARENTS PROVIDING US WITH THE KNOWLEDGE THAT, WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM EXPERIENCED DOCTORS, WE CAN ACHIEVE THE LOOK WE HAVE ALWAYS WANTED.

By Bernadette Reyes

Of late, the Philippines, along with other Asian countries including India, Israel, Jordan, Malaysia and Thailand has earned the reputation as some of the most popular destination for patients seeking quality personal enhancement care. Having an elective cosmetic surgery done in the Philippines, however, will most likely give you satisfactory results at a more affordable cost.

The Philippines is home to well-renowned Filipino doctors whose medical expertise and clinical experience equal their foreign counterparts. Best of all, are also best known for that unique brand of patient care. “We are at par with international standards when it comes to dexterity and patient concern.

Our bedside manners are better. Ibang mag-alaga ang Pilipino,” says plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Alfred Callanta.

Patients have likewise been coming to the Philippines to obtain first world cosmetic surgery at a fraction of the cost of the same procedures in more industrialized countries such as the US and UK without sacrificing quality.

To illustrate this phenomenon, take the case of dental implant surgery in the Philippines.

Introduced locally in 1983 but died a natural death for years, dental implant surgery has since regained its fort in the country and patients worldwide are going to the Philippines to have their procedures done.

“The number of doctors trained then was very low, the science and the advances at that time were a failure,” Dr. Mark Gan explains.

He was instrumental in the revival of dental implant surgery in the country a decade after.

“Back in 1998 when it was revived, we only had 20 dentists but now there are more than 500 dentists doing implants in the Philippines alone,” Gan announces.

The increase in supply of dentists may be

explained by the growing demand of patients clamoring for low-cost yet quality dental care.

In the US an implant will cost a minimum of US$3,600 and may be hiked to as much as US$6,000. In the Philippines dentist usually charge US$1,800 to a low of US$1,000 or may be even less.

The margin of savings may even be greater for other procedures. According to Dr. Callanta, usually the cost of any surgical procedure is four times less when performed here in the Philippines. For example, if the average surgeon’s fee for blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery in the US is US$2,500 in the Philippines, a qualified surgeon will charge only US$600 on the average. For

liposuction, surgeon’s fees in the US average US$2,000 per area. In the Philippines, it is around US$800 for each area. “If the cost of tummy tuck in the US is US$4,000, here you would have to pay only US$1,000. You have US$1,000 left for airfare, another US$1,000 for your vacation expenses and you have US$1,000 left for savings,” Dr. Callanta explains.

Although price is one of the significant factors in choosing a surgeon, the more important consideration should be the doctor’s professional qualifications and experience. In the Philippines, there are around 3,000 surgeons but only 200 qualified plastic and reconstructive

FEATURE 15 People who want to reduce the risks that go with surgery may opt for dermatological beauty treatment to restore or enhance features. Dermatology offers non-invasive procedure which does not require penetration or breakage in the skin, nor does it necessitate an incision into the body or the removal of tissue to treat patients. “We usually make use of injections and chemical peelers to enhance the features of patients. We only treat the outer layer of the skin. We don’t really go deep into the skin,” dermatologist Dr. Isabel Lopez-Nazal explains.

Some of the most common dermatologic procedure performed in dermatology clinics here in the Philippines include botox, chemical peel, collagen injections, dermabrasion, endermologie, fibril injections, facial laser treatment, non-surgical liposuction and permanent makeup.

However, choosing a non-invasive procedure also means more visits to the clinics before actual results may be seen although not necessarily more expensive. A patient who undergoes non-surgical liposuction to lose unwanted bulges on the tummy could take months of visits to the clinic before they can see the desired outcome. “For those who want to slim down but do not want the risks that go with surgical liposuction, we offer mesotherapy which we combine with other treatments. However, this may take a while before results will manifest because the patient needs to undergo the same procedures several times,” she explains.

surgeons. However, any licensed medical doctor can perform cosmetic surgery in the country without legal impediment. As a result a number of cosmetic surgery clinics have mushroomed in the country in recent years leading sometimes into malpractices with a number of unlicensed and unqualified people performing complex procedures in small clinics, day spas and sometimes even inside obscure beauty parlors.

Furthermore just like in any medical procedure, patients should be aware that even when utmost care is exercised, there is always the risk of running into complications.

Some surgical procedures have resulted in conditions such as necrosis or death of cells and tissues and hematoma or collection of blood. In worst cases, a patient may even die.

“All types of surgery have risks but these are calculated risks. Usually it doesn’t happen but it can happen. If you don’t want any risk then surgery is not for you,” Dr. Callanta warns.

To avoid unsatisfactory results, it is best to conduct background check on doctors and research about the procedure you want to undergo. Choose an authentic plastic surgeon that has completed an accredited residency training program in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Check if the surgeon is duly certified by the Philippine Board of Plastic Surgery. It is also wise to ask the surgeon about his professional experience.

Equally important is to find a plastic surgeon whom you feel comfortable with.

The advantage is these types of procedures are carried out with minimal pain and lower risk of complications. However, while many of these treatments are already available in small clinics and sometimes even in beauty salons, these establishments may not always have the necessary tools and equipment and qualified medical practitioners to perform some of the procedures. Big clinics such as the Clinica Dermatologica and YSA Skin Care Centers of Dr. Nazal boast of state-of-the-art equipment with well-trained personnel to perform the services. Dr. Nazal explains that only dermatologists with extensive years of training and practice can give you satisfactory results.

Moreover, even non-invasive methods have their own set of risks. “Even chemical peel can burn, that’s why it’s important for patients to seek only professional doctors and follow the experts’ advice to avoid complications,” Dr. Nazal warns. So, if plastic surgery seems suitable for you, make sure to consult with a licensed doctor who has proven surgical credentials or go for an alternative approach if going under the knife is not really your kind of thing. Whether you decide to go for surgery, dermatology or other alternative means for your aesthetic needs, doctors advise not to shop for bargains.

16 FEATURE

Curing Obesity

You ditch your size 6 blouses and shirts for size 14 clothes, you tip the scale and you weigh a lot more than you should so you visit a doctor and he says you should start losing those pounds. So you run on the treadmill six days a week, restrict yourself from eating fats and carbs with the South beach diet and even try starving yourself almost to death, but the weight that you thought you’ve lost for good just keeps on coming back almost immediately and without warning. By Bernadette Reyes The problem of shedding those unwanted bulges is even more challenging for the morbidly obese or those individuals who weighs 100 pounds more than the ideal or those people who have a BMI or body mass index above 30 for the Asians and 35 for the Caucasians.

In the Philippines alone around 500,000 Filipinos are believed to be suffering from clinically significant obesity according to Asian Bariatrics, an obesity advocacy group. This statistic is even more alarming since a lot of these people are very young.

Dr. Hildegardes Dineros – a pioneering Bariatric Surgeon in the Philippines addresses the audience at the recent Illustrado Women of Substance Event.

Experts admit that while there are conservative treatments and procedures such as diet, exercise, pharmacotherapy and lifestyle modification, these have limited short-term effect, if not none at all, in achieving permanent weight loss for the morbidly obese.

The good news is patients have the option to undergo bariatric surgery for a permanent and greater weight loss. Also known as weight loss surgery, it refers to the various surgical procedures performed to treat obesity by modification of the gastrointestinal tract specifically the stomach and the small intestines either by reducing nutrient intake or absorption.

Procedure may be purely restrictive as in the case of Gastroplasty and Gastric Banding so that hunger is satisfied even with a small amount of food intake. In gastric banding the placement of a band creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach which lessens its capacity to hold food. As it is capable of holding only 300 cc of food on the average, this pouch ‘fills’ quickly and the passage of food from the top to the bottom of the stomach is slowed.

Patients may also choose a malabsorptive procedure as in the case of Gastric Bypass wherein part of the digestive tract is bypassed, reducing the absorption of calories and nutrients. Staples are used to form a pouch that is connected to the small intestine bypassing the lower stomach and other parts of the digestive system shortening the digestion. In both procedures, the body will stabilize itself by consuming the stored calories in the body compared to when one is obese.

The Philippines is the first in Southeast Asia to provide the service of bariatric surgery and treatment has been around in the country since 2002 with Dr. Hildegardes Dineros of St. Luke’s Medical Center as one of the pioneers. As the only doctor performing both restrictive and malabsorptive procedures in the Philippines Dr. Dineros has treated hundreds of patients who only have success stories to tell. “The day after surgery you say goodbye to your weight and there is no coming back,” he assures.

Not only do patients bid goodbye to unwanted bulges, they also

minimize the occurrence of other health problems associated with obesity such as hypertension, diabetes and sleep apnea. At the same time social and psychological issues associated with their plus size are addressed leading to an overall improvement in their quality of life.

The Philippines has become a favored destination for patients seeking quality bariatric surgery because of the more affordable cost of treatment in the country. Depending on the type of procedure, a surgery will cost approximately US$5,000 to US$12,000 whereas a similar surgery could cost around US$40,000 in the US. In fact more than 60% of patients of Dr. Dineros come from other countries and fly in the Philippines just to avail of this treatment.

Doctors performing these procedures in the country have also acquired the necessary expertise in the field to complement the technology available in local hospitals. Best of all, the country is home to some of the best health care professionals able to provide patients with quality patient care.

“We already have the expertise and the technology. In St. Luke’s for example we are better equipped than other hospitals outside the country. We also have well-trained nurses caring for patients which we normally don’t see in other countries,” says Dr. Dineros.

But just like in any procedures risks and complications may occur in some cases especially since bariatric surgery deals with morbidly obese patients who already have existing health concerns. “Even if they undergo a procedure as simple as appendectomy, there is always a risk. However, the risk associated with bariatric surgery is related to obesity and not to the procedure,” Dr. Dineros explains. To minimize the risk for morbidity or possibly mortality, doctors conduct very strict pre-operative assessment and make the necessary clearance.

Once you have had a successful operation, the results are immediate.

Patients will start feeling less hunger immediately after surgery with the lowest weight usually attained after 12 to 24 months. Once they lose pounds they will regain that enthusiasm and exercise and keep those unwanted pounds for good.

18 FEATURE

Mining: Digging Deep

in the Philippines

By Bernadette Reyes

Perhaps unknown to many, hidden underneath Philippine soil are some of the world’s most coveted minerals including copper, nickel and gold catapulting the archipelago to global recognition as the fifth most mineralized country in the world, and stirring up the interest of some of the largest international mining companies.

“The Philippines can potentially be the Chile of Southeast Asia,” OceanaGold (Philippines) Inc. chairman Jose Leviste Jr. says with utmost certainty in his eyes. OceanaGold is a leading gold mining company in the Pacific Rim which is poised to begin its mining operations in the northern Philippine province of Didipio, a highly-prospective project expected to produce 227,000 gold ounces annually. Combining the Didipio gold-copper mine with existing explorations could further the company’s production to more than 550,000 ounces per annum.

OceanaGold’s Didipio Project is just one of the 30 big ticket mining projects on the roll in the Philippines. On top of the US$500 million investment of Sumitomo Mining for a nickel processing plant in Palawan, the company has committed to place an additional US$1.2 billion investment in Surigao. BHP Billiton,

the largest diversified mining company in the world, is currently exploring a nickel project in Davao while Indophil and Anglo American explore gold and copper minerals in Surigao.

The excitement may be attributed to the fact that the country is richly-endowed with mineral deposits, the Philippines is the fourth richest in nickel, the fourth richest in copper and the fifth richest in gold in the world, a startling reality considering the country’s diminutive size with only 300,000 square kilometers in land area. According to Philippine Chamber of Mines President Benjamin Philip Romualdez, the chances of finding a mine to develop in the Philippines are greater than other countries in the world considering the country has established

reserves of 13 known metallic and 29 non-metallic minerals.

The odds of unearthing mineral deposits in the country grew even wider following the Supreme Court decision in 2004 which upheld the constitutionality of the Philippine Mining Law allowing 100 percent foreignowned corporations to engage in large-scale mineral exploration in the country. “The Philippines is highly-mineralized except that we were not able to bring these resources to the ground fast enough, safely enough and environmentally-sensitive enough in the past but the new mining law has provided all,” says Leviste.

The same decision, however, stirred concerns among locals as the oversight of mining company Lafayette Philippines, Inc.

FEATURE 19 which caused cyanide spills and fish kills in the Rapu-Rapu Island in Albay province continues to cast doubt on the industry and consequently keep the locals from giving mining companies a second chance. Still, there are also those who are just naturally afraid of mining per se.

However, the mining industry assures more safety measures have been put in place since then and better equipment have been acquired to safeguard the health and welfare of the people. New technology acquired by mining companies has allowed them to improve on mineral resource recovery and use of harmful chemicals has been discouraged which paved the way for less wasteful extraction and processing of minerals.

For the part of OceanaGold, Leviste assures they are not skimping on technology, and that spillage of harmful chemicals such as cyanide is not a possibility for their company.

“I guarantee you there will be no cyanide spill. I can guarantee because we will not use cyanide,” he assures.

Mining companies are also carrying out conservation work in the environment such as tree replanting to avoid depleting the country’s natural resources. Others have taken conservation a step further by promoting plant diversity which allows fragile species to thrive even with minimal human involvement.

Re-vegetation areas which are no longer utilized as operating sites are also landscaped to return them, as much as possible, to their predevelopment state. Some even have butterfly farms as proof that the baseline of the environment can co-exist even with the proliferation of mining activities.

Along with promoting responsible mining practices, the industry is also working to help people realize that mining can be a catalyst to strengthen the Philippine economy. The most obvious benefit from the industry’s productivity would be an increase in government revenue arising from taxes paid by mining companies.

In 2006, the mining sector contributed US$731 million in direct investment and some 5,000 jobs to the Philippine economy. In the next 6 years however, more is expected of the industry with a projection of US$7 to 10 billion foreign direct investment, US$5 to 7 billion in

foreign exchange and another 200,000 direct and indirect employment in the country. The multiplier effect is even more promising. According to former NEDA (National Economic and Development Authority) Secretary Romulo Neri, mining can generate incremental economic activity of up to PHP1.8 trillion equivalent to a 36% contribution to the country’s total GDP pie.

In the case of OceanaGold, the company plans to employ 1,500 people at the first trough of its projects and another 300 at the height of exploration. An economics degree holder of Ateneo de Manila University with a master’s degree in similar field from Fordham University in New York, Leviste is convinced these numbers are significant no matter small they may appear. A study conducted by the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines substantiate this claim saying that for every mining job, four to ten additional jobs are created in allied industries.

A boost in the mining industry will also stop the exodus of jobseekers to foreign countries and trigger some OFWs to come home.

Romualdez said the Philippines has already lost a good number of mining professionals to the global mining community. As opportunities open up in the country, more Filipinos are likely to welcome this development.

lack of education and understanding among the people all add up to uncertainties about the industry. The mining law is now in place and the government – including the top level management – has been very supportive.

Leviste believes that by educating the people, it will only be a matter of time before the positive outlook will trickle down to the ground level.

Still, the question about whether mining will cause irreparable damage to the natural resources of the country remains to be the biggest hurdle of the industry. Mining in itself is an extractive process of non-renewable resources posing questions whether or not mining is indeed a worthwhile endeavor – to which the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines responds with great sincerity to promote and carry out only responsible mining. Concerns about displacement of people, the protection of the indigenous people’s culture and the mitigation of environmental impact on the community have been taken into account and these apprehensions have been adequately addressed. Leviste is out to prove mining tycoons like him are also environmentalists who put premium on life over profit. “I have always wanted to see sustainable development and not just development per se. In the end you want to leave the earth to our children and our children’s grandchildren,” says Leviste.

The entry of mining companies will also pave the way for better higher education in the area. At present there is a shortage of mining engineers and geologists in the country because the country has ceased producing a significant number of these highly-skilled professionals.

Ultimately, mining can contribute to the overall development of communities including improvements in infrastructure giving the locals greater chances of uplifting their lives and may help reduce poverty in some areas. “When they see the roads, when they see you are actually building the community, when they see you are contributing to the fruits of modernity to the area then majority of the people in the community will support [mining activities],” Leviste says.

He admits, however, that much work has to be done before a more positive attitude about mining takes place. Mining companies which have not been performing well, the

Oceana Gold (Phils.) Inc. Chairman Jose Leviste Jr.

20 FAMOUS FILIPINOS By Maripaz Febrero

He’s a little bit champagne and caviar…

Kenneth Cobonpue Pinoy Furniture Designer Drop Kenneth Cobonpue’s name in the international furniture design circles and see instant recognition. Kenneth studied Industrial Design at Pratt Institute in New York in 1987. While completing his degree, he apprenticed for a leather and wood workshop near Florence, Italy.

In 1994, he studied Furniture Marketing and Production at the Export Akademie Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany under a private and state scholarship program, and subsequently worked in Bielefeld and Mu-nich.

York. I found it closer to home in the tropical island of Cebu. I think Cebu and the surrounding islands somehow inspire much of my de-signs today. As a boy, I was always taken by the exuberant richness of nature that was around me. Years later, I realized that I can access all those memories to move my ideas forward.”

Kenneth’s creations have earned him recognition at home and abroad.

Awards to his credit include 12 Mugna and four Katha Awards for design excellence at the annual Philippine International Furniture Ex-hibition. The Japan Good Design Award was presented for five of his designs. He won a Golden Shell Award in 2002, given by President Arroyo for embodying the ideals of Asian design. In 2004, he won First Prize at the Singapore International Design Competition for the Croissant Sofa. And in 2005, Kenneth won the Design for Asia Award of Hongkong, Asia’s highest award, for the Lolah Chair.

Several of his designs were selected for the prestigious International Yearbook (Laurence King Publishing) 2002, 2005 and 2007 editions and Phaidon’s new 2007 book “& Fork”. He has appeared on Europe-an TV, countless international magazines such as Wallpaper, News-week and Time Magazine, and respected newspapers including The Washington Post and the Shanghai Daily News.

Kenneth’s designs integrate locally-sourced organic materials with innovative handmade production techniques as an alternative to the western definition of modern design.

“My palette of materials consists of rattan, buri, kawayan and abaca.

Each has its own texture, colour, smell and sound. You can bend, twist and weave them in endless ways. It is a feast of the senses to work with these,” says Kenneth.

C

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He returned home to Cebu in 1996, to manage Interior Crafts of the Islands, Inc., his mother Betty’s furniture design and manufacturing company.

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He said, “From the start, I was seeking a fresh sensibility to embrace and develop with regard to design. I didn’t find it in Milan, nor in New

Born in Texas to a Filipino mother and an Irish American father, Neal McCoy often re-fers to himself as a ‘Texapino.’

He’s been a self-starter all his life, learning about music from the radio and his older siblings’ records. He won a local singing contest that led to a seven-year gig as open-ing act for Charley Pride, one of American country music’s most famous singers.

Apparently, most people are not aware that Neal McCoy is Filipino.

They think he’s American Indian. His looks came from his mother, Virginia, who married his father, Hubert, in the 1950s in Manila. His father was with the US Army at that time. The family moved to Jack-sonville, Texas, where Neal was born. Neal has a brother, Gary, and a sister, Barbara. He got ‘McCoy’ from the name McGoy, (his previous name), an abbreviation of his original name, McGaughey.

With a rich Texas twang, he says, “Music should be a diversion.

There are enough problems in the world without singing about them.” In view of this, when he sings, he wants to have fun, as much as his fans do.

K

He’s a little bit country…

Neal McCoy

Pinoy Country Singer “Some people say, ‘I don’t care if they like me or not.’ Not me! I want people to like me, and if they don’t like me, I want to do something about it. And the way I’m able to do that is by singing and entertain-ing. It’s the best way I know to get through to people.”

Neal and his wife, Melinda, founded the East Texas Angel Network (ETAN) in 1995. Their foundation provides financial assistance to fam-ilies of children with serious illnesses. The organization has raised millions for the children of East Texas.

Neal also treks each year to Iraq, Afghanistan and other places Amer-ican troops need a taste of home. Like all who tour for the USO, Neal offers his services for free. “I just think of it as my duty,” he shrugs.

“These young men and women are professionals, they do a terrific job, and they deserve all the support we can give them. We should help when we can, provided you’re not taking anything away from your family or hurting anybody.”

This Pinoy clearly has his heart in the right place.

Wedding Cards Scroll Invitations Custom Invitations Favors & Bonbonnieres

100's of designs to choose from Designs to suit every taste and budget

Ravissant General Trading LLC P.O. Box 124221, Saleh Bin Lahej Building, Shop 3, Opposite Lamcy Plaza, Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 3367878, Fax: +971 4 3368844 Mobile: +971 50 2892763, Email: info@wedding.ae

www.wedding.ae

22 KABUHAYAN

REAL ESTATE

Money, Assets and Investing The decision to buy a home is perhaps one of the biggest financial moves most people can ever make in a lifetime. Being such a major undertaking can make it a cumbersome task especially if one has little information and understanding of the important considerations in purchasing property. In a two-part Kabuhayan article, Illustrado contributor, Jovy Tuaño, a leading Senior Property Consultant based in the UAE, with particular expertise in Philippine real estate, answers frequently asked questions.

Buying a Property in the Philippines What is the benefit of buying a property?

Here is a simple list of the benefits you will get when you buy a property:

Savings Plan – buying property is like a forced savings plan since you would not want to be in default and risk forfeiture if you stop paying

Resale – sell when the market price has increased significantly or when you just need money to re-invest in another property or capitalize a business venture Assign – you can simply execute a Deed of Assignment to any party for any valuable consideration Mortgage – use your property as collateral for loans

High return-Low risk - you get the best deal from well established developers with at least ten years of corporate track record in master planned mixed-use commercial and residential developments

Personal business – real estate is a very popular source of passive income for many people who own two or more properties.

In the Philippines you may also register a home business like professional services and trading within a residential unit as long as you abide with the Deed of Restrictions without disturbing your community.

Visa - use it to justify your equity or travel purpose as required by many Embassies worldwide

Is it a good time to buy a property in the Philippine right now?

Yes. The domestic demand for commercial and residential sales and rental market is high due to the growing young population empowered by high economic growth at about 7% and very low inflation rate at less than 3% last year. The Philippines has one of the most attractive property prices in Asia, which is enjoyed by many Filipinos and a few foreign investors. Why only a few foreign investors? Although Philippine Law allows foreigners to own condominium units, the lack of spending on international publicity campaigns by government and private agencies has worked in favor of the nonresident Filipinos working abroad. Once the Philippines become very popular and rosy to large institutional foreign investors, it will become very difficult for an average Filipino expatriate to afford a property back home.

Although we love to hear good news about the Philippines, remember that bad news may not be as bad as you think. Buy now or never!

What main points should I consider when buying property in the Philippines?

Buying a property in the Philippines will largely depend on your objectives and personal preferences as well as your capacity to pay.

Here are important points to consider:

Purpose - i.e. investment with long-term income; family use; retirement; home; schooling Family lifestyle - i.e. indoor; outdoor; urban; sub-urban; business; sports; yuppie;

green lifestyle; senior citizen friendly; multicultural; provincial

Location and accessibility - i.e. central business district; shopping malls; schools; outdoor leisure; health facilities

Financing

scheme available - i.e. no downpayment or no interest in-house financing before completion and low-interest bank financing upon completion

How much money do I need to be able to afford a property in the Philippines?

You don’t really need millions of pesos to afford a property although good quality studios or one to two bedroom units may cost anywhere from PHP1.5M to PHP7M. The property you can afford depends on your capacity to pay a as well as what you are looking for in terms of location and property type. The answer can also be equated to the amount you have to pay for monthly rentals, daily transportation, cost of convenience and extended family-cost of living if you do not have your own conveniently located property back home.

Remember that there are a lot of financing options available to help you purchase the property you want in convenient monthly installments. Still if your budget is limited, there are several low-cost housing options but I strongly recommend the still affordable high-quality residential projects developed by the top developers in the country starting from PHP7500 or approx AED700 per month. Many Filipino investors in the Gulf are able to afford a monthly amortization of

REAL ESTATE

KABUHAYAN 23

Money, Assets and Investing PHP25,000 to PHP30,000 per month which could get one a good property from some of the Philippine’s top developers.

What guidelines do I need to consider to ensure that I am making a wise and secure investment?

You need to exercise due diligence and undertake verification procedures just like when you are buying a car or any major personal possession. Just remember the L.A.N.D rule:

L- Verify the location and accessibility of project site through your friend or relative back home

A- Match your needs with the amenities offered

N- Nominal pricing and terms should not be burdened with high down-payment and interest, do not pay in full until the project is finished; contract and documentation process must be clearly stated from the start of negotiation; all payments including reservation fee must be made directly to the account of the developer

D- Know your Developer by calling the head office and browsing through the internet.

Verify if the representative or agent is authorized or not. Qualified professional brokers and agents can surely help you save time and money in choosing the right and safest investment. It is best to deal only with real estate agents who are accredited by

publicly-listed real estate developers in the Philippines. Google the project!

• Signed request for reservation or Reservation Agreement provided by developer

What are the things I should avoid when buying property?

•Signed loan application forms may also be required for in-house or bank-financing

Avoid unscrupulous agents who handle money on your behalf since most developers require cash or checks to be directly transferred to the company account of the developer. Always verify transactions with the head office of the developer. Avoid overpriced properties, vague documentation process, low-cost/low-quality properties and dead investments in NPA (Non-Performing Assets) like cheap house and lots outside development centers which you do not intend to use. Steer clear from properties located in areas with no master planning and no community-based developments in terms of infrastructure, public utilities and environmental benefits.

What are the basic legal and documentary requirements when purchasing property in the Philippines?

From the buyer’s or investor’s side: •Two proofs of identity government-issued ID)

(passport copy,

• Marriage contract, legal separation/divorce paper (if relevant) •Signed Buyer Information Sheet (should match IDs for contract purpose)

•Letter of Guarantee (LOG) from bank The most important documents are the Contract to Buy and Sell (CTBS/CTS), Deed of Absolute Sale (DAS), Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT) for flats and TCT for land. The title must show proof of registration with the Registry of Deeds of the City or Municipality where the property is located.

What financial products are available for Filipino buyers in the Middle East?

The country representatives of banks like BDO, Philippine National Bank, Allied Bank and other institutions will be glad to assist you in getting a housing loan. Pag-ibig (Philippine Home Development Fund) can provide loans up to PHP2million pesos for qualified members. Some buyers also simply get a personal loan from a UAE-based bank to buy properties in the Philippines.

Buying a Property Q&A continues through to our next issue. For any questions on property purchase in the Philippines, write to us at – info@ illustrado.net.

24 PROPERTY FEATURE ILLUSTRADO FEATURES CHOICE PROPERTIES FROM MANILA’S TOP REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS.

In the Metro The Columns Legazpi Village Makati

The Gramercy Residences at Century City Makati The best of nature and urban conveniences.

Ever dreamed of coming home to your tropical island paradise, where you can take pleasure in the bliss of cool soothing waters and bask in the beauty of lush greenery – 36 floors above the ground?

Designed by the world-renowned Jerde Partnership, the SkyPark® will be the centerpiece of The Gramercy Residences, the latest high-rise residential development of Century Properties that is replete with urban conveniences: three swimming pools, magnificent water forms, three fitness gyms, a yoga/Pilates room, a spa, a THX theater, a DVD library and book club, a day care center, children’s playground, a resident’s lounge and a designer café.

Aside from its nature-inspired amenities, The Gramercy Residences is the first high-rise condo to rise at Century City, a mixed-use development on Kalayaan Avenue, Makati.

Century proudly calls The Gramercy as the first fully-furnished, fully-serviced, hyperamenitized luxury residential condo in the Philippines.

Condo living is no longer a novel phenomenon. But living in an excellently planned residential development loaded with amenities in the middle of it all? Now there’s the rub!

Community Innovations serves up a complete lifestyle package in The Columns Legazpi Village (TCLV), a prime residential complex conveniently located along Makati’s premiere business and leisure destinations, on the corner of Arnaiz Avenue and Amorsolo Street. In TCLV, boardroom battles and fashionable haunts are both within reach.

With units ranging from studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, two- bedroom bi-level to loft units, you can pursue your passions inside TCLV. Work-minded? Transform the 2-bedroom bi-level units into an office extension. Leisure- oriented? Convert it into a virtual game room. If fitness is your priority, you’ll relish a 2,000-sq.m. fitness hub that features state-of-the-art equipment.

Monthly Amortization starting from AED1,100 The Columns Legazpi Village is a project of Community Innovations - Ayala Land’s standardbearer for innovation in residential living. It builds balanced, harmonious communities where the living experience enhances the lifestyles and fulfills the aspirations of its customers. For inquiries, visit www.atAyala.com

And with six exceptional interior designs to choose from, not to mention a direct access to a lifestyle and entertainment center, The Gramercy Residences is one of the most desired luxury address in Makati.

Two Serendra Bonifacio Global City, Taguig Work where you live, live where you play and enjoy all the comforts of suburban living in the city — all the things you can expect as Two Serendra welcomes its new residents.

Featuring a full complement of residential and lifestyle amenities, residents can now experience leisurely walks amid landscaped gardens; unwind in the elegantly decorated function rooms; and enjoy the development’s showcase of fitness amenities and dedicated children’s amenities.

Highlighting the dynamics of suburban living in the city in tangible form, Two Serendra continues to draw urbanites who want to bridge the gap between urban living and suburban sprawl — defining a place that residents can call home.

Monthly Amortization starting from AED1,900 Two Serendra is a project of Community Innovations - Ayala Land’s standard-bearer for innovation in residential living. It builds balanced, harmonious communities where the living experience enhances the lifestyles and fulfills the aspirations of its customers. For inquiries, visit www.atAyala.com

Ownership starts from AED 2,300 a month Contact Nikki Samonte at condos_philippines@ yahoo.com, mobile number +63 918 899 9808, landline +632 893 6301. www. philqualityhomes.com.

26 PROPERTY FEATURE ILLUSTRADO FEATURES CHOICE PROPERTIES FROM MANILA’S TOP REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS.

In the Metro Avant At the Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

Portofino Alabang

The Portofino grand plan - three hundred hectares of rolling terrain, with a masterplanned community comprised by a variety of exclusive enclaves.

Master’s Collection - these homes are a manifestation of all things grand, impressive and exclusive. Courtyards of Portofino - a unique Brittany concept featuring generous courtyards within the home, reflecting the Italian way of life focused around family and celebrations. Amore of Portofino - exclusive to Amore is the Cluster, an assemblage of four single detached units with a common driveway, landscaped pocket garden and a quaint and romantic ambiance.

With Avant, you have the best of everything you need in life right where you live - in the emerging business landscape and retail hub of Taguig, Bonifacio Global City.

In a central location touted as the last remaining prime spot in the golden triangle, Avant is your prime address in this uptown section of The Fort.

Portofino’s amenities include a roman bathinspired pool with lap and children’s pool, colonnade and pool terrace, nature jogging trails, courtyards, barbeque pit, River Park, basketball and tennis courts, fountains and the Grand Clubhouse. The development is also slated to have a 15 hectare commercial complex with shops, restaurants and cafes.

Price Range -

A low density, luxury 38 storey residential tower, with 245 units – a choice of studios, 1, 2, 3 bedroom and loft condos – all precisely oriented to maximize views with heat reflective tall and wide picture windows.

Common Avant special features include a high-ceiling lobby, The Lobby Lounge, concierge services, free-form pool with sundeck, a fully- equipped gym, a sky garden, three basement levels for parking and 113 parking slots

Master’s Collection: lots from PHP6.6 M to PHO10.1M, house and lot PHP20M to PHP42M

Price range: from PHP3.8M to PHP19.8M

Amore is a project of Brittany. For inquiries, call UAE Country Representative Agnes Briggs at 050-666 5349. Or visit www.brittany.com.ph

Avant at the Fort is a project of Brittany. For inquiries, call UAE Country Representative Agnes Briggs at 050-666 5349. Or visit www.brittany. com.ph

Master’s Collection

Courtyards of Portofino

Courtyards of Portofino: house and lot package from PHP12M to PHP23M Amore of Portofino: lots from PHP4M to PHP10M, house and lot from PHP9M to PHP15M

Amore of Portofino

30 PROPERTY FEATURE ILLUSTRADO FEATURES CHOICE PROPERTIES FROM MANILA’S TOP REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS.

Outside the Metro

Canyon Ranch Carmona, Cavite

Nuvali Sta. Rosa, Canlubang, Laguna

Home on the ranch. Enjoy a Sunday afternoon barbecue picnic amidst cool climate and lush greenery. Spend quality time with your family - and still catch up on the latest stock market report with high-speed Wi-fi internet.

Combining environmental sustainability with economic productivity, Avida Settings NUVALI promises families greener living at a rising metropolis.

All these are possible at Canyon Ranch, the 17-hectare master-planned development of Century properties in the charming hills of Carmona, Cavite. Located within the San Lazaro Leisure Park, it offers a wide array of living options patterned after the most vibrant cities in California.

Southern dwellers are in for the best of both the idyllic suburban life and urban conveniences as Canyon Ranch is close to nature and key facilities such as schools, hospitals and industrial parks.

Laidback. Relaxed. Blissful.

Contact Nikki Samonte at condos_philippines@yahoo.com, mobile number +63 918 899 9808, landline +632 893 6301. www.philqualityhomes.com.

While dedicating at least 45% of the development to open spaces, children are provided more room to play outdoors with the Avidaexclusive green ribbon neighborhood pattern that gives them access to a large garden via their own backyards. Jogging paths, tree-lined pedestrian lanes and bike trails encourage healthier living.

It is approximately 15 minutes from the Sta. Rosa exit, 30 minutes from Alabang, and 50 minutes from Makati. Shuttle services are also available both in and outside of the NUVALI community.

Monthly Amortization starting from AED 1,600 Nuvali is a project of Avida Settings - Ayala For inquiries, visit www.atAyala.com

The Verandas Tagaytay Highlands Inspired by the laid-back country lifestyle of the American South, which brings you back to the bygone days when family living was simple – slow paced and more idyllic, in contrast to the hectic frenzy of today’s urban routine. At the Verandas, you are encouraged to build roof-covered, open-sided living spaces such as terraces, verandas and porches at the front of your home so you can maximize enjoyment of the fresh breeze, soothing landscaped scenery, and congenial atmosphere of neighborliness.

Celebrate the joy of open-space living. Experience tranquility and serenity in the picturesque surroundings of this community.

Prices start from PHP11,312 per square meter The Verandas - Tagaytay Highlands is a project of Belle Corporation. For inquiries, call +6346 483 0824, +632 631 1194 or +63917 899 3818. Or visit www.tagaytayhighlands.com

AGNES AQUINO-BRIGGS Country Representative Brittany Corporation Tel: +971 2 558 4662 Mobile: +971 50 666 5349 email: asb@thepropertyroadshow.com agnes@megagroupco.com

32 PROPERTY FEATURE ILLUSTRADO FEATURES CHOICE PROPERTIES FROM MANILA’S TOP REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS.

Outside the Metro

Plantation Hills Tagaytay Highlands

The Parks at Saratoga Hills Tagaytay Higlands

A colorful leisure farming community dedicated to fostering the pleasures and benefits of living close to nature await you at Plantation Hills. This organic and nature-inspired setting will bring your life at its purest.

A 90-hectare ecological haven, strategically located at the heart of the Highlands Complex where you can enjoy the cool provincial breeze and a healthy mix of traditional living in your own farm lot while experiencing the comforts provided by the Highlands and Midlands golf and country clubs.

Living up to the promise of creating venues for strengthening family ties and promoting family values, this residential development features American country homes in several clusters. Each cluster has a splendid courtyard as centerpiece, blooming with life in all seasons. Each house has a wide spacious lawn where your children can play to their hearts’ content, families can picnic, and block parties can be held al fresco. An American country inspired set-up amidst the modern comforts provided by the Tagaytay Highlands and Tagaytay Midlands developments.

Prices start from PHP 6,720 per square meter

Prices start from PHP 10.8M

Plantation Hills - Tagaytay Highlands is a project of Belle Corporation.

For inquiries, call +6346 483 0824, +632 631 1194 or +63917 899 3818.

Or visit www.tagaytayhighlands.com

The Parks at Saratoga Hills - Tagaytay Highlands is a project of Belle Corporation. For inquiries, call +6346 483 0824, +632 631 1194 or +63917 899 3818. Or visit www.tagaytayhighlands.com

Crosswinds Tagaytay A quiet place where only the rustling of leaves against the wind can be heard and the scent of pine refreshes and relaxes. Homes inspired by classic chalets, set against rolling hills and surrounded by pine, Crosswinds puts you in a picturesque Swiss setting - right in nearby Tagaytay.

Crosswinds is comprised of complementary neighborhoods, each exuding a distinct personality and suiting different needs.

Peak View - Custom home sites with peak parks. Cedar Brooks - A courtyard cluster development allowing utmost privacy, exclusivity and security. Pine Grove - lots designed with a variety of orientations following the contour of the land, enhancing both land and home. Swiss Quadrilles – built on wide lots, are units with an open layout to accommodate family activities and gatherings. Grand Quartiers - a mid-rise condominium development with studio units, 1-bedroom to 3-bedroom residences. Deux Pointe - bigger home and lot packages, situated on the property’s highest and most prime location - the only high peak property still available in Tagaytay today.

Prices start from PHP 2.5M Crosswinds is a project of Brittany. For inquiries, call UAE Country Representative Agnes Briggs at 050-666 5349. Or visit www.brittany.com.ph

Thinking of buying or investing in property?

Talk to the right people right now

One-Stop Philippine Property Shopping at its Best • LiVe-WoRk-pLaY-sHoP-LeArN • master-planned developments • 50 prime locations in Metro Manila and in beautiful countryside more than 1000 available units • foreign ownership with titles • no down-payment/ zero-interest schemes • easy pay in-house financing • low-interest bank loans • up to 10 years to pay • promotional offers special discounts Dial/Text PPS Hotline +97150 9262096 NOW! or send email to <philippineproperty@eim.ae>

34

SUCCESSFUL PINOY

Tips on Success

Kung Pinoy Ka, sigaw na!

By Jeffrey ‘Ximo’ Ramos

“Sige! Kung ‘tagumpay ng buhay’ mo ay mahalaga, sige…”

Let us talk about your success as a Filipino this time.

It bothers me to see a ‘Filipino’ trying to becc come a successful Americano, or Italiano, or Britoncno! I do respect those who are married to other nationalities and are mixing their succc cess with one another but to those who are

purposely deviating from being Filipinos and are trying to become something else they are not, unfortunately, this, I have to say, “Mamm mumukadkad ka lamang sa bagay na iyong gamay.” So, if it is not your ‘cuppa tea’, it is still up to you but do not blame me (lovely, cheers!).

“Rizal was by far, more accomplished in the arts and sciences than Washington as our own multitfaceted genius demonstrattt

ed during his brief lifetime. He was a doctt tor of medicine, an accomplished writer; spoke several languages including English, a biologist, a sculptor, a sportsman and even a ladies’ man, among many other taltt ents. Washington was only a surveyor and as far as I know was a proper gentleman who married a widow” – Isagani A. CruzSupreme Court Justice, Constitutionalist

SUCCESSFUL PINOY

35

Tips on Success Be a proud Pinoy!

You are internationally great.

Sino ang naging Ms.International 2005? Ms. Philippines! The whole world witnessed the pageant – as different nationalities from around the globe competed in China.

Humahataw rin sa international music ang mga Pinoys! Filipino-Americans but 100% Pinoy at heart. Sino ang hindi nakakakii ilala sa Blackieyed Peas? Sa Sugababes?

Sa Pussycat Dolls? Opo. Ang kumanta ng “kung pinoy ka, sigaw na, sige, kung buhay mo ay mahalaga, sige” na si Apl Pineda of Black eyed peas ay tagaiPamii panga, ang lead vocalist naman ng Pussyii cat Dolls na si Nicole Scherzinger ay tagai Batanes; at si Mutya Buena of Sugababes ay tagaiPampanga rin. And as they make waves around the globe each song they sing is undoubtedly with a touch of the Filipino heart for music.

At mga Pinoy abroad na nakilala rin ang galing sa ibang bansa ay proud sa kanilang lahi – ehemplo nito si Isagani Alamani of Wellington, New Zealand, isang Archiii tect/painter. 1988 pa lang ay nasa New Zealand na siya. Tinangkilik ang mga disenyo niya sa mga gusaling kanyang giii nawa. Ngunit dahil na rin sa kanyang pasii sion sa pag pinta at pag disensyo nanalo siya sa “best design” ng white pages sa New Zealand. Dahil dito nag sunodisuii nod na ang kanyang blessings. Nakilala siya at nabigyan ng parangal ng mga taga New Zealand at maging ng ating embaii hada.

Ganun rin si Mally Roncal, international make up artist of famous celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, etc. Saan ka pa?

Oo nga pala, bakit may bahay kubo sa aquarium ni Nemo? Ang Filipino artists na sina Nelson Bohol at Gini Cruz ang “may kagagawan”. Kaya proud ka to be Pinoy in international films like Finding Nemo ng Disney/Pixar film.

Kaya tibayan ang loob, ang dibdib ay lakasan. Be proud Pinoy! Be proud! Kaya mo yan!

Pinoy muna bago iba

I encourage you to do business with fellow Filipinos. Bumili ng sarili nating produkii to; gumamit ng gawang pinoy; libutin muna ang mga magagandang tourist spots sa Pilipinas bago sa ibang bansa.

“Naku, hindi naman maganda ang mga produkto – mahinang klase!”; napakai mahal ng vacation package compared sa papuntang Hongkong”.

These are the primary reasons why you have to patronize our own even more. Kaya maii hinang klase – kasi walang gaanong budii get dahil walang bumibili. Tingnan mo ang pelikulang Pilipino, we have the best directors and actors and yet only a few good and international quality movies are pro-duced. At kaya naman mahal ang packii age, kakaunti ang nag aiavail ng tours.

Kakaunti ang nag veiventure na magi negosyo. Kung dadami ang tatangkilik, dadami rin ang mag iiinvest and thereii fore, mumura ang package. In so doing, the government might be able someday, to give discounts to local Filipinos and balik-bayans.

So, if you are going to spend your money, time and effort, you might as well use it to contribute to your beloved Philippines.

Sa inyong pamilya muna, tapos, sa inyong magkakaibigan, sa kapitbahay, sa iyong komunidad hanggang sa iyong bayan at kung handa na ….sa ibang bansa na.

Promote your country to success Pansinin mo ang mga pelikula sa ibang bansa i Miami Vice, Dallas, CSI Las Vegas, etc. Lagi nilang ipinakikita ang galing, lakas at ganda ng kanilang lugar at kakayahan. Alam mo ba na tumataas ang tourist rate nila dahil dito?

Dapat ganuon din ang gawin mo. Pro-mote your own country through the service or product you are into or going into. Tulad ng pelikula, dapat laging background ang magagandang lugar sa Pilipinas. So, promote your country to success!

Mag ‘Balik-bayan’

“Unahin mong linisin ang sarili mong baii kuran”.

“How hard and sad it is to die in another country”

i Kasabihang Pinoy i

Filipino U.N. Secretary General

- Claro M. Recto -

Unahin mo muna ang sariling atin.

Alam mo ba kung bakit matatag ang ibang lahi sa negosyo? Dahil sila sila muna bago ang iba. The Chinese would give big discounts to fellow Chinese; Indians will give special deals to fellow Indians. Umiikot ang pera at connections within them – kaya ang kita sa kanila na rin mismo.

“We must transcend our petty selves, forget our hurts and bitterness, cast aside thoughts of revenge, and let sanity, reason, and, above all, love of country prevail during our gravest hour”.

-Benigno”Ninoy” S. Aquino, Jr.Martyr, Diplomat, Philippine Hero

Successful Pinoys are ‘balikbayans’.

Hindi lang naman mga OFWs ang nagii babalik bayan. Ikaw din ay dapat ‘magii balik sa iyong bayan’. It is time to return the favor to your country.

Utang ng bawat mamamayan sa kanilang ninuno ang lahing kinatatayuan. Maraii hil sasabihin mong mas gusto mo pang maging Amerikano o Canadian dahil sa hirap at kawalan ng importansya na iyong naramdaman sa sariling bayan.

Hindi kita masisisi. Pero hindi iyon siii nasadya ng iyong bayan – hindi lang rin kasi handa ang ilang kababayan na ikaw ay tulungan.

Just remember that your country will al-ways be there when things go wrong – it is still your last resort. Ano pa man ang mangyari, babalik ka rin. Kaya ngayon pa lang tumulong ka na sa pagbabago.

Make your country the first resort.

Ang pagiging Pinoy ay napakasaya – lalo na kung successful ka.

Gusto mo bang marinig na ikaw ay kaii kaibang lahi? Na ikaw ay kasama sa Pilii ing Lipi – isang liping pinino – PILIPIii NO. Ikaw ay mabangong lahi, malinis at mapagmahal sa pamilya; nasa bayan mo lang ang masarap na mangga; dito laging masaya ang piyesta! Magtanim ng kahit na ano – tutubo kahit saan ang buto! Hamak ganda ng mga beaches sa Pinas, ang mga halaman at hayop ay napaka yabong; dito lang may zigzag road of Baguio (may zigzag road nga rin sa ibang bansa, pero hindi ng Baguio).

Kaya mga kapamilya, kapuso, kabarkaii da at “kasabwat” i mag ‘balikibayan’ na. Panahon na para magtagumpay ka ng sabay sa iyong mahal na bayang Ina. Masarap ang feeling na ikaw naman ang humahawak ng negosyo at nasusunod sa iyong bayan; ikaw na ang nakikinabang sa likas na yaman; na aasahan sa bawat likas na kakayahan; ikaw na ang nag iiissue ng visa ng mga dayuhan kung sila ay i reirelease o may ‘ban’; ikaw na rin ang magtatatak ng ‘denied’ sa mga passport nila at hindi ikaw ang pipila sa kanilang embahada.

Kabayan, panahon na. Mag balikibayan ka!

They say that behind every successful man, is a woman – however a cliché that may be, it can’t be more true than in this instance.

POSTCARDS from

LAGUNA

FASHION 37 Floral top used as a minidress by Wildflower at The Ramp; drop earrings by Get Happy

Text by Lalaine Chu-Benitez Photography – Fashion by Dr. Marlon Pecjo, Landscapes by Al Benavente in collaboration with the Laguna Province Tourism Office (LPTO) Fashion Styling by Janet dela Fuente Makeup by Bem Abeleda and Hair by Ricky Diokno for Kiehl’s Model: Bea Soriano of Raven Model Special thanks to Ms. Gina Austria of the LPTO and to Laguna guide Mariel Mercolisa

FASHION 39 Haltered tulip printed minidress by United Pop at The Ramp; red embellished clip earrings and bangles by Get Happy; red patent peeptoe wedges by Janylin

FASHION 41 Two piece brown bikini from Salsatrends by Arlene Sipat at The Ramp topped by a sheer champagne dress by Wildflower at The Ramp; beaded drop earrings and bangles by Get Happy

FASHION 43 Sleeveless jumpsuit and animal print maillot

by Freeway; belt by The Ramp and bangles

by Get Happy; Sheer printed cover-up used as a headband by Ensemble

FASHION 45 Yellow top with embellishments used as a minidress by Folded &Hung; brown sheer cover-up used as a head scarf by Ensemble; necklace and bangles by Get Happy; oversized sunglasses by Folded & Hung; wedged sandals by Janylin

FASHION 47 Haltered blue and zebra print minidress/ cover-up by Salsatrends by Arlene Sipat; earrings and bangles by Get Happy

FASHION 49 Haltered printed maxidress by Details at The Ramp; beaded clip earrings with colored shell, assorted bangles and ring by Get Happy; beige peeptoe wedges by Janylin

FASHION 51 Floral tube dress from Salsatrends by Arlene Sipat at The Ramp; green wooden necklace

by Ensemble; bangles by get Happy and embellished gold slippers by Janylin

52 FEATURE

Laguna Tourism Office Reaches its 10th Year

FOR THE PAST TEN YEARS, THE LAGUNA PROVINCIAL TOURISM OFFICE (LPTO) THROUGH THE LEADERSHIP OF GOVERNOR TERESITA S. LAZARO AND STEWARDSHIP OF MRS. REGINA B. AUSTRIA HAS ACHIEVED A NUMBER OF IMMEASURABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS PUTTING THE PROVINCE OF LAGUNA AT THE FOREFRONT OF TOURISM PROMOTION AND MARKETING IN THE PHILIPPINES.

The ANILAG festival dubbed as ‘The Mother of all Festivals in Laguna’ was awarded the 2007 Best Tourism Event in the Philippines (Provincial Level Category) by the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) at the 8th National Conventional of ATOP in October 2007.

In the same month, the Department of Tourism also awarded the Provincial Government of Laguna a Plaque of Recognition for the same festival as the Best Tourism Event in the Philippines (Provincial Category) in the 13th Southern Tagalog Tourism Council Assembly. Before these two citations, the Head of the Laguna Provincial Tourism Office Mrs. Regina Ballesteros Austria, was also given the title of Most Outstanding Officer of the Philippines in the 2006 ATOP Convention.

All these accolades come well deserved judging from the LPTO’s efforts to promote

the province’s various tourist spots and destinations. From January to December 2007, a total of 28 festivals and 20 tourismrelated events were celebrated in the different municipalities and cities Laguna.

On top of this the LPTO has spearheaded the reproduction of tourism promotional materials such as the Traveller’s Guide, a tourism video and a book entitled “Cabinet Wonders and Other Laguna Stories”, as well as the creation of the Laguna Tourism Website - www.lagunatourism.com.ph On another dimension, to professionalize the tourism industry and the LGU tourism front liners of the province, the LPTO has also initiated Manpower Training and Skills Development Programs which include Front Office Operations, Comprehensive Housekeeping, Tourist Reception and Guiding Techniques, Waitering, Tourism Awareness and workshops on Basic

Conversational Korean Language and Culture, etc. The LPTO has also been successfully running the Annual Search for the Best Tourism Establishments in the province, for 10 years now, with the objective of encouraging cleanliness and beautification to improve the accommodation facilities of all tourism-oriented establishments in Laguna.

As a result of the body’s tireless efforts tourist and visitor arrivals in Laguna have shown a marked increased, rising from 1.29M in 2002 to 1.97M in 2007.

For 2008, the LPTO will hold contemporary programs and activities to sustain its momentum, promoting a more progressive tourism industry, which in turn will provide greater job opportunities in the fair province of Laguna.

54 FEATURE

Bench: A Philippine Global Brand

IT STARTED OFF JUST LIKE CASUAL US BRAND GAP PROVIDING NO-NONSENSE AFFORDABLE BASIC T-SHIRTS TO MASS CONSUMERS. JUST A LITTLE OVER 20 YEARS, THE BUSINESS HAS EVOLVED INTO SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST A RETAIL CHAIN SELLING TRENDY CASUALS LIKE HOTCAKES. IT HAS BECOME NOTHING SHORT OF ICONIC, A PHILIPPINE SUPERBRAND, IF ONE WERE TO JUDGE FROM THE GIGANTIC BILLBOARDS LOOMING AROUND THE METRO CARRYING DISTINCTIVE CAMPAIGNS, THE NUMBER OF STARS LINING UP TO BE THE BRAND’S IMAGE MODELS, AND THE THOUSANDS OF PINOYS WHO THRONG TO THEIR SPECTACULARLY PROVOCATIVE FASHION SHOWS JUST FOR A PEEK AT THE SAME STARS CAVORTING ON THE RUNWAY IN THEIR PRIVATES.

Bench, the brand, the lifestyle and the business empire, brainchild of entrepreneur-designer Ben Chan (from whose name the brand was coined), could well be considered the first and strongest fashion brand that ever came out of the Philippines. Starting with a single outlet in SM Makati back in 1987 selling casual apparel – mainly t-shirts, Bench

is now a gigantic retail chain with 270 stores, 57 franchisees and 218 concessionaires covering the Philippines, the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Guam, Palau, the US, Canada and China.

Product-wise, from mere trendy tee’s, the company has expanded

FEATURE 55

and diversified into a variety of merchandise which include casual apparel, underwear and sleepwear, accessories, not to mention a bath and body line with hair, beauty and personal care, baby care products, as well as scents and organics. Proving that Bench is not only about clothing – it’s a lifestyle.

But perhaps, what is even more remarkable with the history of Bench is not about its range of products and cool wearable designs, but how its marketing savvy brand instigators have aggressively promoted and consequently grew the brand’s equity, elevating its image through celebrity endorsement – a promotional tool they have utilized like no other company in the Philippines. For example, who would

think about the wildly popular Richard Gomez, at the top of the Philippine celebrity heap of the 80s and early 90s, without connecting him to Bench? Gomez, the original face and first image model of Bench, was immortalized in distinctive campaigns, including the memorable ‘rowing’ commercial which won the company the Best in Cinematography award in the 1991 Philippine Ad Congress. Since then, Bench has been reaping accolades from the professional ad body.

Today, Bench has an impressive list of image models/endorsers which reads like the who’s who of the ‘hotties and hunks’ of current Philippine showbiz. These include Lucy Torres, Diether Ocampo,

56 FEATURE

Kristine Hermosa, Alessandra de Rossi, Francine Prieto, Sam Milby, Kris Aquino, Angelica Panganiban, Shaina Magdayao, JR, Iya Villanio, John Prats, Rufa Mae Quinto, Wendell Ramos and TV favorite Richard Gutierrez, among others. Recent endorsers also include Pinoy pride Nicole Scherzinger of the internationally popular Pussycat Dolls.

On top of all this celebrity hoo-ha, Bench has also attained popularity, not to mention, notoriety by mounting the not-so-usual fashion show which has proven to draw huge audiences packing venues like the Araneta Coliseum and causing traffic and commotion. Since 1997, these shows featuring celebrities and professional models strutting on the runway wearing nothing else except skimpy undies from the Bench Body line, have been the rage, keeping tongues wagging around

the metro. If it was the distinctive campaigns and the celebrities, which kept Bench fans loyal through the years, it was these shows which piqued their interest and pushed their appetite for the brand into overdrive.

Whether one loves the company’s casual clothing and lifestyle or not, and whether one is partial to the liberal exhibition of bare flesh or the ongoing marketing gimmicks of the company is immaterial; the truth of the matter is that Bench is undeniably the Philippine’s one and only homegrown fashion label that has proven it’s mettle and ability to reach out across the borders, while continuously fanning the flames to sustain its consumer base’s loyalty throughout the fickle trends of the last two decades. It is truly a Philippine global brand.

58 FEATURE

Manila F.A.M.E. International:

Asia’s Best Design Destination WHETHER IT’S VASES MADE ENTIRELY OF PAPER OR TERMITE MOUNDS CLEVERLY FASHIONED INTO LAMPS, DESIGNERS FROM THE PHILIPPINES HAVE BEEN CHURNING OUT REVOLUTIONARY PRODUCTS THAT ARE CAUSING THE INTERNATIONAL DESIGN COMMUNITY TO STOP AND TAKE NOTICE.

Perhaps it’s the brazen design, or the imaginatively quirky slant on everyday objects or the liberal use of natural indigenous materials that catch people’s attention. Whatever the case, more and more buyers around the world are taking the flight to Manila twice yearly to discover the latest furniture and home accessories pieces.

Their show of choice: Manila F.A.M.E. International, a bi-annual fair that never seems to have a shortage of innovative ideas.

With countless fairs held worldwide, what makes this show different? Some say it’s the innovative products it offers; others say it’s the inventive use of natural indigenous materials, another would argue that it’s the unique design sensibility. But really, it’s the combination of all these things. And most buyers agree. “Philippine design has a modernity, an edge over other countries in the region,” says a buyer from Australia who has been coming to the show for over

2 decades. Another edge the show has is the service it offers to buyers. “It’s a little more personal,” says Rhea Matute, Deputy Executive Director for Consumer Goods of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), organizer of the show. “We put value on customer service. Essentially, we’re here to build relationships, not just sell products.”

This commitment to providing exceptional service and creating a memorable experience for its clients is central to the show’s success.

It isn’t surprising why more than two decades later many still call it “Asia’s Best Design Destination”.

The next edition (on April 15 to 18 2008) is expected to be bigger and better, owing to a new and larger space (SMX Convention Center), and the addition of more companies from different product categories, including personal care, and health and wellness

merchandise.

But a large part of its exhibition space will still be dedicated to home furnishings, mostly handcrafted pieces using a wide range of organic materials such as abaca, raffia, and wicker, which are very popular among buyers. Also gathering much interest are one-of pieces that carry with them interesting stories of the country’s history. Whatever buyers are interested in, Manila F.A.M.E. International has something to offer that’s out of the ordinary.

But what makes this year’s show special is the fact that it is celebrating its 25th anniversary, so international buyers and visitors can expect an event that is better than any of those staged in previous years. Helping mount this edition are world-renowned consultants Tes Pasola (houseware), Al Caronan (holiday décor), and Cesar Gaupo (fashion accessories) with overall creative direction by Milo Naval.

60 COMMUNITY EVENT

Illustrado Honors the Filipina in its first

WOMEN of

Substance Event Illustrado held a successful event on the 15th March 2008 attended by over 200 guests, at the Shangri-La Hotel in Dubai, honoring the Filipina. Slated to be an annual event, Illustrado’s Women of Substance is a celebration of female empowerment in conjunction with International Women’s Day. The highlight of the affair was the presentation of seven Filipina honorees from the community who have made a mark in their respective fields, exemplifying the different roles women play in today’s world. The line-up included pilot and entrepreneur Capt. Irene Mora, business and cultural patroness Lucille Ong, entrepreneur Rowena Jamaji, physician and accomplished pianist matriarch Norma Tajanlangit, missionary and volunteer worker Rita Verdolaga, kayumanggi beauty ex-Bb. Pilipinas titlist Tracy Javelona and community patroness Madame Fe Cabactulan.

Illustrado Publisher & Editor-In-Chief Lalaine Chu-Benitez

Philippine Ambassador to the UAE H.E. Libran Cabactulan

The event was also graced by H.E. Libran Cabactulan Philippine Ambassador to the U.A.E. who spoke keenly about the Philippines’ number six ranking in the International Gender Gap 2007 report citing how men and women in the country receive equal treatment and opportunities in the various fields of education, economic opportunity, government, etc., but at the same time highlighting the importance of partnership between the sexes. Adding to the international flair

Trailblazing Emirati filmmaker and entrepreneur Nayla Al Khaja

Lalaine Chu-Benitez (right) with pilot and entrepreneur Capt. Irene Mora (left)

of the proceedings was the appearance of trailblazing Emirati filmmaker and award winning entrepreneur Nayla Al Khaja who spoke about the advantages of womanhood and her fondness for the Filipino community.

Another groundbreaking endeavor, Illustrado’s Women of Substance project is in line with the publication’s aspirations to uplift the Filipino community in the region, by boosting morale and providing a platform for progressive thinking.

The event was sponsored by – Liali Jewellery, Splash, Home Center, Shoemart, Tagaytay Highlands, Ayala Land, Brittany Properties, Canyon Woods, Eton Properties, Emke-Lulu Supermarket and Schon Properties.

Community Patroness Madame Fe Cabactulan

ex beauty queen Tracy Javelona

Entrepreneur Rowena Jamaji,

Business Patroness Lucille Ong,

Physician-pianist and matriarch Norma Tajanlangit, with husband Vic

Bariatric Surgeon, Dr. Hildegardes Dineros

COMMUNITY EVENT 61

Philippine Ambassador to the UAE H.E. Libran Cabactulan talks about the International Gender Gap Report

Illustrado’s 2008 Women of Substance (left to right) – Tracy Javelona, Norma Tajanlangit, Capt. Irene Mora, Rowena Jamaji, Lucille Ong, Fe Cabactulan, with host Lalaine Chu-Benitez and special guest - Nayla Al Khaja.

Guests at the ladies coffee afternoon event held at the Shangri-La Hotel Dubai ballroom.

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More scenes from the afternoon coffee event held at the Shangri-La Hotel Dubai ballroom

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

The Filipino Press Club The Filipino Press Club-UAE is a two-and-a-half year old organisation of mainstream and trade Filipino print-broadcastonline journalists in the United Arab Emirates.

Conceptualised as early as 2004 when seasoned as well as greenhorn newspapermen and photojournalists from Metro Manila have made their way into Dubai and the other emirates, the group aims to foster camaraderie as well as unity among all members, including those from the public relations profession.

There are at present 27 regular and seven associate club members

and the 2008 to 2009 set of officers have the goal of spiking the number, much as they also want to stand up for the truth on issues concerning the 350,000 to 500,000-strong Filipinos in their adopted country as they are duty-bound to do so, aside from contributing worthwhile and fun projects throughout their term.

The incumbent officers are mostly veteran media practitioners who have covered major man-made and natural events not only in the Philippines but also in Asia.

Philippine Consul General for Dubai and the Northern Emirates Benito Valeriano (left) administers the oathtaking of the new set of officers of the Filipino Press ClubUAE: Mariecar Jara-Puyod (second from left), president, The Gulf Today reporter; Rachel Salinel, external vicepresident, The Filipino Channel-Arab News-OFW Ngayon Dubai correspondent; Valeriano Handumon, internal vicepresident, ITP Publishing Group senior photographer; Ryan Hernandez, treasurer, Gulf News senior photographer; and Milo Torres, boardmember, ofwzone.com web administrator.

Not in photo is Dindo Amparo, boardmember, ABS-CBN Middle East news bureau chief.

For inquiries, please contact the following : Maricar Jara-Puyod at 050-2091372 Rachel Salinel at 050-4577839

© Fleyeing / Dreamstime

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Beautiful

Tinuy-An Falls

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The Pearl of the Orient. With as much as 1,701 islands spanning a variety of landscapes from majestic mountains to lush plains, exciting beaches and refreshing bodies of water, add to this the vibrancy of life in the city, the color of the quaint countryside, the rich cultural heritage, not to mention the verve of its people - it’s quite conceivably one of the most beautiful of places in the world.

Indulge yourself in high-octane adventure, or rest and relaxation.

Perhaps, learn about our history or simply work and play in the metropolis and the playgrounds of the north and south. Find yourself in the grandeur of natural and manmade wonders in our fair country. And while you’re at it, you can even fall in love.

PHILIPPINES Photography by Al Benavente, from Dreamstime.Com, and by George Tapan courtesy of the Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Philippines in the UAE

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Get your heart Racing © Kaz Sano / Dreamstime

Siargao Siargao is the acknowledged surfing capital of the Philippines. Home of the internationally-renowned ‘Cloud Nine’ wave – made famous in a 1993 magazine feature in the United States and considered one of the best waves in the world. The island is a paradise for enthusiasts and beginners alike, and is the site of annual international competitions. Siargao is a favored destination by foreign surf junkies both for its quality waves and for its reputation as an inexpensive fun destination.

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Palawan Palawan boasts of some of the best locations for mountain climbing in the country. There are limestone formations all over the island, with some offering several sport climbing routes with varying difficulties. Magnificent views of the white sandy beaches and the lush green forests accompany the adrenaline rush of scaling nature at its most raw.

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© George Tapan

Get your heart Racing

Cagayan de Oro Deep in the heart of Mindanao run the mighty rapids of Cagayan de Oro River, an ideal venue for the exciting adventure of whitewater rafting. With qualities that offer challenges for both experienced rafters and first-timers, the runs of the river makes for one thrilling ride for any action-seeker out for a good time. There are several rocky areas that bode dangerous moments, but it is all part of the experience. The rapids of Cagayan de Oro were brought into the spotlight in 2002 when President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo enjoyed a wild trip down the river herself.

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© Tony Schultz / Dreamstime

Tubataha Reef

© George Tapan

The Tubbataha Reef in Palawan, declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1993, is a favorite among divers. The coral reef is located in the Sulu Sea is a 12-hour boat ride from Puerto Princesa City and houses about a thousand different species of marine life including manta rays, lionfish, sharks and pawikan, as well as hundreds of coral species.

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© Eastwest imaging / Dreamstime

De-stress & detoxify

Boracay World famous Boracay has an endless list of activities – from watersports to shopping to nature trips to dining and partying; there’s something for everybody. Although the Western Visayas destination is best known for its stunning beaches and its endless nightlife, it is fast gaining a reputation for being a top spot for rest and relaxation as well. The island is perfect not only for bumming around the sand but also for the fabulous pampering to be received at the luxurious spas around the place.

© George Tapan

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© Erik Degraaf / Dreamstime

© Holger Mette / Dreamstime

Camiguin Camiguin earned its title as the Philippine’s “Garden of Eden” quite deservedly so. The island which is included in the DOT’s top 25 Philippine destinations lies 10 kilometers off the coast of Misamis Oriental. It has varied ecosystems which include pristine beaches, volcanoes, waterfalls, hot springs and dive spots, making it a virtual paradise island with untouched natural beauty, perfect for restful holidays, away from the stresses of city life.

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De-stress and detoxify

© Fleyeing / Dreamstime

© Fleyeing / Dreamstime

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Tinuy-An Falls Known as the ‘Niagra Falls of the Philippines’ in the city of Bislig in Surigao del Sur, Mindanao is the majestic Tinuy-An Falls. A white water curtain touted as the widest in the country with a breathtaking width of 95 meters, the falls flow in three levels at 55 meters high and has a wide bathing area below the cascade. One of the best water features in the Philippines with a unique natural formation, the Tinuy-An has become a popular haunt for tourists, nature lovers and photographers. The falls rank high in Surigao’s tourist attractions which include lush tropical rainforests, enchanting caves, post-card perfect beaches, an abundance of mouth watering sea-food, and its friendly people.

Zamboanga A visit to Zamboanga is almost like a trip outside the country. Barely recognizable as part of the Philippines, the influence of Spanish colonization remains apparent in the beautiful city – dubbed as ‘Asia’s Latin City.’ The common language spoken in the area – Chavacano – is a combination of the native tongue and Spanish.

Zamboanga is famous not only for its cultural landmark Fort Pilar but is also renowned for its many beautiful beaches, which include the sandy shores of Santa Cruz Islands.

© George Tapan

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Step back in time

Batanes At the northernmost tip of the Philippines, much of the province of Batanes has been left untouched by time. The local Ivatans trace their bloodlines to Taiwanese and Spanish ancestors, and have a well-preserved culture that is all their own. Batanes was selected by the Department of Tourism as part of the 12 Best Destinations in the Philippines in 1994 because of its pristine beaches and mountains and its distinct Ivatan way of life.

Corregidor The tadpole-shaped island of Corregidor is historic for its role in World War II, where it served as the stage for one of history’s most important last stands. Today, it holds many attractions including the Pacific War Memorial, the Malinta Tunnel and some batteries that were used in the island’s defense. Many of these attractions tell the story of the fall of Bataan during the Japanese occupation, where Filipino and American soldiers fought side-by-side until they fell.

BAKASYON GRANDE SPECIAL FEATURE 75

© George Tapan

© George Tapan

Cebu The site of the earliest recognized act of heroism in Philippine history – where legendary chieftain Lapu-Lapu defended his native shores from the invading forces of Ferdinand Magellan. Mactan Island is home to the bustling Lapulapu City, which is part of the Cebu Metropolitan Area. Aside from the historical shrines dedicated to both the hero and his adversary, Mactan boasts of some of the country’s best beach resorts in the country – like the Shangri-La Mactan and the Plantation Bay Resort and Spa – a popular dive destination for sun, sand and sea lovers. © George Tapan

© George Tapan

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Work & play © George Tapan

Makati The hip and modern business district of Manila, Makati plays host not only to some of the Philippines’ biggest companies and businesses but also to the some of the best nightlife in the area. With many clubs, bars and restaurants that cater to the cosmopolitan crowd, the city remains the hottest spot for after-dark merriment. Many of the best high-end shopping centers – like the Ayala Center and Rockwell – and five star hotels are also located in the area, making it an easy and accessible destination for tourists.

Laguna The acknowledged resort capital of the Philippine’s Laguna, a short drive south of Manila, is home to some 500 resorts and hotels with a range of lodging, dining and convention facilities. A province replete with natural and man-made features including the Pagsanjan falls, Caliraya Lake, Mount Makiling, the cold springs of Liliw and famous theme park Enchanted Kingdom, on top of numerous other resorts and water parks, Laguna provides the perfect opportunity for weary urbanites to unwind and play during the weekends.

© Eastwest imaging / Dreamstime

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© George Tapan © Al Benavente

© Andres Rodrigues / Dreamstime

Baguio A relaxing day at the tee is made even more pleasant in what is known as the summer capital of the Philippines. Mix together some of the finest golf in the country and the cool, fresh air of Baguio for one memorable afternoon of fun and games. With top-flight courses at the Baguio Country Club and Camp John Hay, the experience – sporting competition, crisp weather and beautiful scenery – is truly one to remember.

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Find yourself

Taal Volcano and Lake Tagaytay City is another summer favorite among tourists – second only to Baguio. The temperate city is well-known for its Taal Volcano, which features a crater found within an island situated in a lake. Although the breathtaking site is flocked to by passersby – and is actually resided in by some locals – it is actually an active volcano that’s has been known to erupt violently. When it sits peacefully, however, Tagaytay remains one of the country’s most relaxing places to visit – a quiet and pleasant destination with an absolutely stunning view.

© Ximagination / Dreamstime

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Ifugao Rice Terraces The Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao is nothing short of a wonder to behold – only fitting since it has long been known as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World.’ It’s an inspiring sight; the man-made spectacle is a technological feat that ranks among the greatest in history. The terraces, a result of the skill and hard work of the Ifugaos, were carved into the mountains some 2,000 years ago – but continue to be marvels even to this day. © George Tapan © George Tapan

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Find yourself

Find yourself

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Mayon Volcano Long known as the volcano with the most perfect cone in the world, Mayon Volcano in Albay is a well-known destination among vacationers. The name Mayon was derived from the Bikol Magayon which means beautiful. Its beauty is considered by some to rival that of the famous Mount Fuji in Japan. The symmetry of its cone makes it one of the world’s most magnificent sights – and a destination not to be missed.

San Juanico Bridge At the The San Juanico Bridge – located in Eastern Visayas, connecting the provinces of Leyte and Samar – is the one of the longest in the country. Formerly known as the Marcos Bridge, it crosses over the San Juanico Strait, which is known for its many islets and whirlpools visible from the bridge. This architectural wonder is considered by many to be one of the most beautifully-designed bridges in the Philippines. The bridge and its picturesque view is accessible to both private and public vehicles.

© George Tapan

© George Tapan

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Fall in love © Galina Barskaya / Dreamstime

© Antonio Oquias / Dreamstime

El Nido El Nido, Palawan’s breathtaking beauty and quiet isolation is enough to make romantics swoon. With its secluded lagoons, beaches and its rich dive sites, couples can sunbathe or have a private picnic lunch, kayak in secret lagoons, explore isolated islands, take a mangrove tour, snorkel with colorful tropical fishes, have a relaxing massage or spa treatment in the world-renowned El Nido Resorts or simply spend some quiet couple time watching nightly spectacles in the sky like the North Star, the Southern Cross, and other heavenly formations in the Milky Way, which may not be seen in the night skies of other countries.

© Richlindie / Dreamstime

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© Jonald John Morales / Dreamstime

Manila Bay

Some travelers scour the world to catch a glimpse of the perfect sunset. Filipinos are lucky – we can find it right in our very own backyard. A short trip to the Baywalk area at just the right time can be unforgettable, as there might be no better place to be to watch a sunset than by the Manila Bay. Be mesmerized by the play of colors on the water’s surface as the boats lazily float about. Such a tranquil scene will cause you to forget any problem, even for just a moment. Surely, it’s a scene too special to be experienced alone.

© George Tapan

Davao Pearl Farm

The romantic resort in Samal Island was once a real farm for oysters – where pearls from the Sulu Sea were harvested. A short boat ride from Davao City, it is now a top tourist attraction where one can stay at stilt cottages in the style of the local Samal tribes. One can indulge in a variety of things including relaxing spa treatments, scuba diving at the marine sanctuary and various watersports.

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Travel Café Philippines A new coffee experience Text and Photos by Vic Albornoz Lactaoen

With more than seven thousand islands, it’s hardly surprising that most tourists visit the Philippines for its sand and sea, for secluded tropical islets and dazzling marine life. The country is so diverse where a day’s travel will take you from the unearthly tribal villages of the north to the idyllic islands of the south. And what a better way to start-off ones journey than a visit to Travel Café Philippines at the plush Greenbelt 5 of the Ayala Center in Makati.

Launched recently by no less than Tourism Secretary Joseph “Ace” Durano, Travel Café Philippines is the first ever destination themed lifestyle café.

There were resounding cheers when Secretary Durano, took center stage during the grand launch recently. “The revolutionary concept of the travel café project is a pioneering branding initiative for tourism promotions of the Department of Tourism,” boasts Secretary Durano. “This has been created to provide its diners with a sip of authentic Philippine coffee, a taste of local cuisine, an online booking facility to travel around the country, a treat to Filipino music greats and comfortable native interior design by local artists,” Durano added. The tourism secretary considers the project as his “Blue Ocean’” a term from a strategic marketing book referring to developing uncontested market space in order to achieve growth.

Inspired by the success of the first Travel Café Philippines in Tokyo, Japan, Durano believes that franchising Travel Café Philippines will create an outstanding global brand for the country. Trendy, up-market areas in key cities or in Central Business Districts will be the priority tourism targets of the Department of Tourism.

The project’s utmost aim is to establish permanent Philippine presence in high visibility locations which should be primarily accessible to tourist customers.

This will target working professionals who have the interest, propensity and capacity to travel.

Food Menu The Travel Café Philippine menu illustrates both tradition and innovation in Philippine cuisine. It is a reflection of international influences seeping into the flavors of the country’s traditional fare. Executive Michel Le Teuff introduces new technologies and style of cooking into the café recipes. Working from the kitchens of Four Seasons Hotel, Sheraton International and Makati Skyline and

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now the Travel Café Philippines Chef Le Teuff took advantage of local ingredients and gave the traditional Filipino menu a twist. He opted for light and healthier selections, but explodes with luscious flavors.

One of his techniques is preparation. He makes everything visually appetizing, elevating well loved home cooked dishes to haute cuisine status. With an inspiring message, Chef Michel Le Teuff wants to convey to Filipinos that “it is time to be proud and to promote the Philippines to the world.”

A sampler of the menu includes familiar appetizers like crispy ukoy, or squid and mackerel ceviche, raw fresh mackerel marinated in vinegar and spices to a selection of spring rolls from spicy fried lumpia to heart of palm pouches. For salads there’s Trinidad Baguio Salad, Travel Café salad, which includes goat cheese from Davao and flaked adobo over assorted greens with grilled shitake mushroom and marjoram mustard with balsamic dressing. There is shrimp pomelo salad, Philippine grapefruit with fresh shrimps, mixed with fish sauce and calamansi.

For main course there’s chef’s adobo, braised oxtail in peanut sauce (kare-kare), Saranggani Classic, pan fried milkfish belly from Sarrangani served with garlic nutty rice, pickled papaya and tomato slices. There is also Travel Café pasta selection including linguini aligue aioli, crab fat and garlic chili sauce over linguini pasta, Lucban longganisa and Fettuchin;, Saranggani smoked fish linguini and Pasta Manila.

For snacks, one can savor Travel Café’s pandesal corner and their five sandwich selection of smoked salmon and buffalo cheese sandwich, a hearty lunch sandwich with layers of smoked salmon and buffalo cheese in pandesal bread served with purple yam chips, a choice of adobo, menudo or longganisa in pandesal.

For desserts there’s Travel Café’s own version of the halo-halo, or buco pandan halo, a choice of nangka cream cake, banana moist cake, and fruit Suman Sushi, freshly preserved fruits on a pillow of sweet sticky rice with pandan coulis and mosaic of coconut, garnished with chocolate chopsticks. For truly filling dessert there’s the Filipino Triolet - a set of three traditional Filipino desserts including leche flan, topped with macapuno; turon(deep fried banan and jackfruit) and suman with coconut shavings.

Philippine Coffee Blend Capping the selection of hearty desserts is the signature blend of Philippine coffee. Travel Café prides itself on its great tasting coffee cultivated in the different provinces of the country. The organically

grown coffee beans are ground to perfection and elegantly served three ways: as drip coffee, in a coffee press or in house blend espressos. One of the Café’s salient features is to serve authentic brands of local coffee served with the perfect accompaniment – the pandesal.

A visit to the Travel Café is not complete without a taste of Alamid or Philippine Coffee - one of the rarest and most expensive coffees in the world today. It comes only from the sweetest coffee cherries of the Philippine forest, carefully chosen and eaten by free roaming civets to give the beans their unique supreme flavor. Alamid coffee has a smooth and naturally sweet taste, with a chocolaty aroma that heightens the senses.

Other blends to try include Bukidnon’s Monk Coffee, Mount Matutum Coffee, Cordillera Mountain coffee and the premium Barako blend.

Guests can take home a nice pack of any coffee variety served at the Café. One can enjoy an educational tour of the Philippines with every sip. The cafe further claims that every cup of coffee at the Travel Café is a “cup of happiness.”

Celebrating Filipino heritage and lifestyle will never be complete without showcasing the brilliance of the country’s artistry and craftsmanship. With the aid of well known Interior designer Budji Layug and architect Royal Pineda, the Travel Café Philippines design philosophy of a signature Filipino visual look – being trendy, stylish, up-market yet distinctly Filipino has now been completely realized as reflected in the interiors of the cafe.

The branding campaign, which hopes to reach out to the rest of the world to promote the Philippines, is the kind of project that can boost not only the tourism industry, but the economy as well. The Secretary and his other tourism deputies are working to re-position the Philippines as a world-class destination under this new branding strategy. Hopefully the number of arrivals will speak for itself.

86 FILIPINISMS

Onli In Da Pilipins - 1. n. a phrase used to define anything or anyone that only exists anywhere in the 7,107 islands of the Philippines || 2. adj. a phrase used to describe a Pinas episode or a Pinoy persona so rare one would never find anywhere else in the WWW (whole, wide world). It merits a documentation of some sort.

Beating the Heat: The Pinoy Way

By Aby Yap

Summer’s here! You can already feel the heat sweeping over your body even when you remain still. It’s time for sore eyes, bungang araw, profuse sweating, unquenchable thirst, and, of course, the muchawaited bakasyon grande. But since not everybody could afford summer in Amanpulo sipping Piña Coladas, we should be thinking how to best enjoy this season ala Lumen. You know Lumen? She’s the the wife who impressed her mother-in-law because she knew how to clean more clothes at a lesser price — wais! Although we Pinoys are often misjudged as spending beyond our means just to have a grand time, truth is, we’re actually very good at finding the best ways to make the most of everything. Wink wink!

Cold Summer Days Worried about using your A/C for fear of stroke-inducing Meralco bills? Tired of fanning yourself with old newspaper? Then why not cool off with samalamig! Stalls selling these coolers are scattered throughout markets, the talipapa, or even in your very own neighborhood. There’s the popular sago at gulaman drenched in arnibal goodness. You can even use the straw like a sumpit to play with the sago. Just make sure you blow the sago on someone who’s actually your friend. For the health buff, sweet fruit shakes like ripe and green mangoes, watermelon, melon, pineapple, and avocado are available. And for a feel of the island life in the middle of a dusty road, drink fresh buko juice. It’s fun just watching manong expertly crack the coconut with his bolo.

If summer for you means indulging your sweet tooth with cold treats, Pinas is the perfect place to find sugar and ice and everything nice.

There’s mamang sorbetero with his cart of ‘dirty ice cream’ in flavors like keso, buko, ube, chocolate, mango, strawberry (in Baguio), and for modern tastes, there’s even cookies ‘n cream. Whether you want it on a crunchy apa or a soft monay is totally your choice.

You can also get homemade ice buko, ice munggo, ice drops, ice candies, and pinipig crunch. And don’t forget the irresistible iskrambol (correctly pronounced as ice crumble as most of us found out just before elementary graduation)! It’s that bright pink shaved ice concoction with gulaman and tiny sago, topped with powdered milk and Hershey’s chocolate syrup. Yum! Before you start craving for any of these, get ready for the best part!

Presenting the winner of them all—drum roll, please— halo-halo.

It’s a mixture of everything that makes summer especially delightful (that’s sinful for weight-watchers), from fruits like saging na saba, langka, and melon; vegetables like kamote, sweet beans, garbanzos, and corn; to desserts like leche flan, macapuno, kaong, nata de coco, sago, and gulaman on a mountain of shaved ice flavored with milk and sugar. Halo-halo runners-up include saba con yelo (sliced plaintains) and mais con yelo (corn kernels).

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But if being unable to wear your itsy bitsy bikini at the beach after all the sweets binge scares you, then forget your sweet tooth and turn to sour and salty options. Manggang hilaw, santol, pinya, or even singkamas with bagoong is yet another way to satisfy your summer cravings.

Shunning the Summer Bummer Just because you’re short on cash doesn’t mean that you have an excuse to snub summer. You don’t need a month’s pay to get a natural tan or go somewhere cooler. Remember you’re a Pinoy, so you have an innate flair for discovering the greatest deals in town.

And because you’re in Pinas, there are several hotspots you can check out for patok summer adventures.

Watching out for travel promotions like Cebu Pacific’s Piso fare or Super Ferry’s Sail Away packages can do wonders for your bakasyon grande. For as low as PHP3,000, you can either fly or sail to as far as Boracay, Bohol, Cebu, Camiguin, Davao, or Palawan and be queen or king of the beaches there. With a measly allowance of PHP2,000, you’ll most likely survive a three-day get-away in any of these dream destinations. If you have less to spare, forego distant places, and settle for those close to you in the meantime. Although minus the white sand and azure waters, a number of great beach resorts can be found in the coastlines of Manila’s nearby provinces. From Manila, you can go via bangka to Puerto Galera or bapor to Marinduque; or by bus to Batangas, Pangasinan, La Union, Subic, or Zambales. The trick is going with a huge group whether it’s your family, barkada, or colleagues so that you can divide the accommodation, food, and activity (think island-hopping, diving, snorkeling, etc) expenses amongst yourselves. The more, the merrier — and the cheaper, too. Besides, there’ll be more people to bug for loans or libre in case the going gets really tough.

If you have less than PHP500 in your piggy bank and won’t consider it summer unless you experience water-dipping even just for a day, then go to swimming pool resorts in Antipolo, Bulacan, or Cavite. If it’s hot springs you’re after, choose the ones in Los Baños, Laguna. Here’s a tip: night swimming can be cheaper by as much as PHP50. And if there’s not enough money even for jeepney fare, it’s time to revisit the clubhouse in your subdivision, or your neighboring subdivision, for that matter – wink, wink!

For those avoiding summer sunburn, the highlands may be your best vacation bet. Whether you go to Baguio, Banaue, or Sagada, the cool climate will give you rosy cheeks, a reason to look forward to summer. Aside from inexpensive lodgings, these places also offer a number of activities that can give anybody a natural high. Nature-tripping like trekking in the woods, climbing the amazing rice terraces, or simply feasting your eyes on colorful flowers is always free of charge. But if your finances are really a MH (malaking hadlang) to a fun summer, just hang out at any air-conditioned mall and chill. That won’t cost you a cent either.

88 FILIPINISMS

The Annie B (Batobalani) Chronicles The adventures and misadventures of a ‘not so average’ Pinay trying to make it in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai.

Fazionably Annie

Growing up as a young barrio lass in barangay Bagumbayan in the town of Orion in the province of Bataan, I have always been in the center of fashion and glamor. Every year, thanks to dengue fever, malaria at kung anik anik pang sakit ng mga kabataang laki sa am at hindi sa Jollibee at McDo, ako lagi ang default replacement ng mga batang mestizang minamalas dapuan ng sakit days before our annual Santacruzan. Of course, laging may naka-ready akong gown “in case” kailanganin nila ang presence ko. Ahem. Buti na lang constant ang aking supply ng Tiki-tiki noon kaya laki akong masigla at malusog miski pabago-bago ang weather. Since then, I have been exposed to all the drama of beauty and fashion. Dito ko nadevelop ang aking kakaibang self confident - which to this day, I’ve learned to master and explore much further. My knowledge in fashion, so to speak to itself, has also evolved throughout the years, salamat sa kakapanood ko ng mga TV shows at pelikula ni Sharon Cuneta, kakahiram ko ng mga magazines like Vogue, Cosmo at Yes! from my bading friends at kakarampa ko sa ibat’ibang malls during my free time. Miski pagdating sa hat cotur, champion ako dyan - mahilig din kasi ako sa mga sombrero eh.

Name it, I know it. Fashion is my passion (uy, nag-rhyme pa!) after dancing and singing yata noh!

the acts. From being a PR Assistant, isa na ako ngayong ganap ng Fashion Assistant. Dizzizit!!!

Kaya nang ma-tsugi ako sa trabaho ko dahil sa kaka-Friendster at Fezbook at YM Chat ko, dagdagan mo pa ng sunod-sunod na tardiness at absents dahil sa puyat at haggardness dala ng gabi-gabing kaka-gimmick, it downed to me that it is time for me to pursue my dream of a lifetime - to work in fashion. Blessing in the sky na rin sa kaka-chat ko at networking, I landed a new and exciting job just a few minutes after my ex-boss gave me

Eto si Yda, yung fashion buyer na Swedish sa cubicle in front of me... I wander why irap sya ng irap sa akin while I was making small stalks. Sinabi ko lang naman na marunong din kasi akong mag Swedish massage when I was back all the way in the Philippines. Naging sideline ko rin yun dati noh.

Kaya on my first day of work, um-outfit nang kung todo to the max ang lola mo feeling red carpet ako para naman swak sa title na “dress to imfresh”.

Wearing my latest shimmering finds sa kakatapos lang na Dubai Shopping Festival at mga discoveries from Karama – I sashayed my way to the corridors of my new office. Becoz of my dramatic grand entrance (o baka kasi kasabay ko lang bumulaga from the elevator yung sandwich lady na may tindang breakfast?) everyone looked at me from head to the foot for my DKNY assemble (di naman halata na Dun-sa-Karama-Na-Yari pala ito). Bakit why, ngayon lang ba sila nakakita ng fashion divah? Kaya todo rampage ako with my sagala walk when I entered my department.

Miss Friendship ang dating ko upon meeting my new workmates. Naisip ko kasi na hindi lang beauty from outside ang importante kundi also the beauty from within. At para welcome na welcome ako sa mga new colleegs ko, binigyan ko pa sila ng baon kong EngBeeTin Hopia at Dingdong na nanaiskor ko pa sa De Belchoir. A taste of da Pilipins ba.

Yung design coordinator din na si Pasha from Russia, panay din yung

FILIPINISMS 89

simangot sa akin when I asked her if she also lives in Al Baraha. Why, what do they think of me.. thinking of them? Di hamak na mas may appeal naman yung body’s stracture ko sa kanya na sa sobrang payat at tangkad, para syang kamag-anak ni Agatona kaya.

Yun namang fashion illustrator na si Sophie from France, may I give naman my compliments sa kanyang Jimmy Shoos na skilletos. Natawa sya kasi alam nya na brand conscience din ako no. Kaya parang gusto ko na sya maging friend. Bigyan ko kaya sya ng French fries....

I was getting in the hang of it na sana until yung Lebanese model manager na si Maryam, akalain ba namang model daw ba ako… ng before and after na commercial… (at ako daw yung before.. are you ok ka lang?) Hay naku, I can’t take it anymore of this! Basta alam ko, I am better off than everyone and all.

Everyone is busy in the preparation for an up and coming fashion show - exciting pero panic galore and mga utaws. Nagsidatingan na ang mga models at suddenly I was being dwarfed. Nag mistulang si Mahal ang byuti ng lola mo sa tangkad nila. And yes, para silang mga buhay na mannequin. Mas maganda pa sa mannequin ng Ever at Issetan.

So the whole time I was busy making chenes and chorva to my bossing, all the papungays ng mata with matching byutiful eyes ng mga false eyelashes ko pero wa epek! Sangkatutak na do this, do that ang inabot ng byuti ko.

Plus in addition to this, tinatambakan din ako ng utos ng mga echoserang ka ofismeyts ko… I just have to take things first at one time! At the end of the day, tapos na ang araw. Nasa work pa rin ako… Waah!!!

Most of all, super excited na ako becoz finally I will get to meet my new boss that I heard na terror daw ng mga fashion modelz… todo na itu! Go Annie B… Dizzizit again and once more!!! But wait, ano naman kaya ang hitsu ng new bossing ko? Rami Khouri daw yung kanyang name… (ano bang klaseng name yan, di naman kaya kasi ma-Raming Kuri-kong yan?)

Hay naku, you can never can tell… Kaya suspense to da limit na lang ang aking expectations.

I was heartstruck, feeling wawa for myself, ng bigla ko na lang narinig sa backroom ang mga boses na parang nag-lalambutchingan. Owmaygash!!!

It was my bossing making landi the male models. Parang kandila akong natunaw right there and right then. It was the list of my expectations na si bossing pala ay member of the same feathers as in ka-feather-rasyon din pala!!! Verde ang dhuglis ng hitad!!! Diz time, ang extra espesyal ability kong gaydar ay hindi man lang gumana. Tama nga naman that first impression is never last. It just like adding insult plus injury.

Enter my bossing… small, dark and handsome nga!!! He is just as what in my imagination. The episiotomy of the perfect male. Matangos ang ilong, salubong ang makakapal na kilay, mabuhok na mabuhok all-over, tisoy na tisoy at nangingibabaw ang nakakahumaling nyang Arabian Oud fragrance…looks alikes a younger Mark Gil…pagkakataon ko nang makatanso ng Eigenmann nito! Sya na nga kaya ang aking minimithing Papa Shake? I’m only human in nature... Tao lang akoh!!! I was so carried in a way na bigla ko na lang na greet si bossing “Hi, I’m Annie, what’s yours?”

Pero teka wait ha, bakit wala lang pumansin sa kanya sa mga officemates kong girls.. Is it because wala silang laban when it comes to beauty and brains compared to me? Ah basta, gaya ng sinabi ng Binibining Pilipinas Runner-up, “I don’t feel any pressure, right now!” O, laban?

Natapos ko ang first day sa fashion world and each not a joke. I have learned one and so many things today that would make me a better, if not, a best person. Kahit na we Filipinos are excellence around the world we live in, na kahit na-o-okray man tayo, kailangan pa rin natin mag blends among in the crowd. Kaya when all else fails, follow instructions na lang ako. Kaya starting from now and forever, magiging open mindedness na ako sa iba’t ibang mga lahi at cultures. Going global na kumbaga na tayo at tatanggapin ko na ang mga friend requests mula sa afam friends all over around the world. Kaya to my avid fans and fanatics, just remember to add HYPERLINK “mailto:anniebdxb@yahoo.com” anniebdxb@yahoo.com in your Friendster and Fezbook list, okies?

90 The view from your regular Juan dela Cruz

Usapang Kanto

How can you promote tourism in the Philippines?

Compiled by Jonie Jose

The Philippines is rich in natural resources. We have so many beautiful places that we Filipinos should be proud of... places like Cebu, Palawan, Davao, the famous Banaue Rice Terraces which were engraved in the mountains of Ifugao, Baguio and of course Boracay, an island in the northwest tip of Panay, a paradise for many sun-worshippers from all over the world... I can proudly say, “This is my Philippines!”

AIY I strongly believe that word-of-mouth is still the best PR tool. Being in the Marcoms industry, I meet a lot people everyday. I would excitingly share with them the Philippine’s natural wonders and if people in Dubai get tired of man-made islands, there are 7,107 natural islands to choose from in the Philippines.

Superb and cheap!

ROSALLE MACASPAC

A simple yet very effective way of promoting the Philippines as a tourist destination is by sharing my wonderful personal experiences with my friends here in the UAE. Also, I believe one of the most important factors that make a certain place a good tourist spot is the culture and the friendliness of its people. So in my own little way, I can contribute by showcasing our values of friendship, honesty and sincerity.

IRISH BELLEZA

I get the opportunity every time I sing my original songs at the Wafi rooftop.

My audience knows I’m from the Philippines and it’s an honor to play in the international music scene. I think, in a way, it promotes our country as well; in between songs I talk about the Philippines. One time, a couple of blokes from the UK came up to me and said the set was great and asked me if I was from Manila. They said Filipinos are quite known for their love for music and that they’d love to see the Philippines. I said it’s a great place to chill out if you’re looking to relax and nature trip.

MARCUS DELA PENA

As a Filipino expatriate, making a good impression to other foreign nationals is my way of promoting the Philippines. If you like what you see in me, just wait ‘til you come to my country.

GERALD DU

One of the seven [“forgotten”] wonders of the world is located in the Philippines, [the Banaue Rice Terraces], that alone could attract tourists! And of course our beautiful and serene beaches in Boracay and Amanpulo which really appeal to foreigners as well as locals. Basically almost everyone loves the beach, that’s why the Philippines is the place to be if you are looking for a relaxing getaway.

JOSEF MANIQUIS The Pearl of the Orient, indeed, is a treasure that must be discovered. You feel lost for words when you’re wrapped within green mountains fronting cascading waterfalls, feeling the mist gently touching your skin. It’s time to discover the natural beauty of the Philippines!

RAUL HERMOSURA Simply by using the word-of-mouth strategy by sharing positive experiences, values and beliefs would create interest and attract tourists to visit the Philippines. It’s a meaningful way of promoting tourism in our own country.

LAARNI EVANGELISTA

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92 ENTERTAINMENT THE DORQUES IS DEFINITELY NOT AN ORDINARY BAND MADE UP OF NORMAL PEOPLE. EACH OF THEM CANNOT, BY ANY MEANS, BE SQUASHED INTO ANY STEREOTYPE; EVEN LESS A MUSICAL GENRE. AND THE MORE YOU TRY TO DO EITHER, THE MORE YOU MISS THE ENTIRE POINT OF THEIR EXISTENCE — A PRETTY BLOODY ONE AT THAT, CONSIDERING THE HEAVY LINE-UP CHANGES THEY HAVE UNDERGONE SINCE THEY STARTED TWO AND A HALF YEARS AGO.

Motley Crew – The Dorques

By Gabrielle de la Rama-Talan

DORQUE-TASTIC: (From left) Tani Santos, Nina Beltran, Joffy Cruz, Aimee Marcos and Arnel Fabiana.

In the beginning, there were only three: cousins Joffy Cruz (vocals and guitars) and Aimee Marcos on drums (yes, Little Aimee — but not so little anymore — daughter of the late Ferdinand Marcos) with Albert Largoza (bass). Largoza left for New York and was replaced by Pimee Ayala, who brought with her the remarkable talent expected of a niece of folk stalwarts Cynthia Alexander and Joey Ayala. The trio added two members: Vince Noir Project’s Alessandra Tinio and blues musician Nino Mendoza from early 2000’s rock and roll act The Blue Jean Junkies. With five dorques on the rampage — wiggling, prancing, posing and cajoling — Pinoy independent music fans weren’t left with much of a choice: they were entranced.

Though there were a few who were put off with the band’s seeming “fashion first, music later” vibe, The Dorques soon inspired a cult following, earning the grudging respect of a number of music snobs in the process.

Fate planted a boobie trap — which only, much later, revealed itself as a blessing in disguise — in the abrupt departure of Mendoza to marry screen actress Snookie Serna and Ayala leaving to pursue a college education in Australia. The remaining dorques, somewhat thrown off course, scrambled for some semblance of stability. Deciding not to get another guitarist, they spotted Arnel Fabiana.

Then playing for Goth-inspired ambient act Skies of Ember, he soon made his quiet yet unshakable presence felt as their new bassist.

Just when things were looking smooth again, Tinio left due to irreconcilable differences.

This stop-and-go pattern was weighing heavily on the remaining band members so

when Nina Beltran of Niniskirt (keyboards) and Tani Santos of Narda (guitars) were inducted into the ranks, they were pretty much determined to make things work. It didn’t turn out to be a hard thing because the two proved themselves to be very able and willing conspirators. It was a long, hard road to stability but they made it.

With a solid lineup and what can only be described as a motley assortment of five, distinct, crazy personalities meshing to form a collective attitude of pure dorque-iness, irreverence and charm, the band has booted the whole “performing mannequins” stigma into oblivion, revealing themselves for what they are — clever and unique musicians.

Their sound can be loosely categorized as pop but in a multitude of nuances that make it difficult for anyone to pin it to the wall. “It’s pop influenced by American, Japanese, and French independent rock,” says recognized band leader (or “genie”) Cruz. Fabiana says it’s “a combination of flip and deep music; a missing link between rock and hip-hop.” In fact, it is all of these — evidenced in their songs ‘Murasaki Blue’ and ‘Le Metronome,’ which employ the Japanese and French language, respectively. It also has little humorous details that point to the band’s pagka-Pinoy in lyrics like “walis ting ting” and “kasi sabi ni Gabbie: ‘dang, dong, ding’.” But more than just a play on language, it is their music’s inexplicable ability to make you do crazy things like jump around like a deranged jack rabbit or turn in circles until you fall flat on the floor, laughing uncontrollably. In the end, it is Beltran who describes their sound best, “It’s Roy G. Biv: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and

violet in a polyphonic extravaganza!”

Recently, their unique quality caught the eye (or should I say, ear) of a certain promoter, which resulted in The Dorques’s Saigon invasion. Remarkable when you consider that many local, mainstream acts signed with major record labels don’t get to step foot outside of the country their entire career.

“The people we met during our trip were extremely receptive to the music. We felt like rockstars,” exclaims Marcos.

Chalk up a point for Pinoy independent music. Though The Dorques do not exactly scream patriotism, they are clear on their stand. “Being Filipino is to acknowledge you are one, and be proud of it,” says the spunky Beltran. “What is nationalistic about us is our individuality and our fearless way of showing others we are born to stand out, that we accept who we are. That is Filipino.”

And what does the band’s dorque-y future hold? The album is set for release in March or April of this year. So far, they have recorded seven out of their 12-track goal. For the album’s production the band stuck to organic equipment. According to Cruz, with a deadpan face and slightly mocking manner, “The microphones were organically grown, the mixers made of soy and the engineer was an eggplant.” What about the band members themselves, I ask? For a fraction of a second he raises his eyebrows quizzically, shakes himself, then answers, “Oh the band… ideally, in the future we will be like the Power Rangers. Each has a big role to play. They cannot form the big robot guy unless they are together.”

Novels and CDs are available at Fully Booked Philippines. Visit the website at www.fullybookedonline.com

By Gabrielle de la Rama-Talan

s n a F k c o R For the

MANILA’S HOT RELEASES 93

Giniling Festival

by Giniling Festival Giniling Festival is one of those rare bands that need to be experienced live. This is not to say that you shouldn’t buy their album but be prepared to be overcome by curiosity after popping the CD into your player — “Who the hell are these guys?” involuntarily spewing from your lips.

Known to perform for performance’s sake — one person or 100 not making an iota of a difference — Giniling Festival treats every gig like it is their last. It is hard to pinpoint which genre they belong to because they have managed to take pieces of the many in existence to come up with their own brand of music. From rock to funk to blues to hints of disco, Giniling Festival is literally that: a festival of sound (I don’t know about the ‘giniling’). Listening to them is like gate crashing a huge, snooty party and mooching all the booze, minus the consequences.

Favorites on their album under TERNO Recordings are the irreverent ‘Letter to Angelina Jolie,’ which pokes fun at the song ‘Angelina’ by French electronica group P.S.Y., and ‘Tsong (Boypren Mong Pokpok),’ which sings of a significant other’s dirty philandering.

Who knew that parodying other bands (I even heard strains of System of a Down somewhere) would pay off? It’s ‘rakenrol’ the Giniling way

Sinosikat?

by Sinosikat?

Sinosikat? is one of the few acts (along with the Chilitees, Cosmic Love, and Mike’s Apartment) responsible for bringing to attention a genre long eclipsed by others — much more so during the rock-centered 2000s — the genre called soul.

Perhaps the most recognizable of acts is how Sinosikat? climbed out of indie obscurity via a record deal with Warner Music in 2007. No surprise as the band received quite a lot of attention due to their catchy music and in no small part to their sultry frontwoman, Kat Agarrado.

Agarrado, formerly of Passage and session player of The Wally Gonzalez Band, is a tiny vixen possessing a formidable voice, with entertainment as her second nature; her showmanship is unmistakable whether in a small, crowded bar or a large stage. Proof of this was her recent coup at the 2007 NU Rock Awards where she bagged Vocalist of the Year.

Backed reliably by Nick Azarcon (brother of Bamboo’s Nathan Azarcon) on guitar and Reli de Vera on drums, the band has not found a permanent replacement for erstwhile bassist Allen Umali; bass on their self-titled debut album is played wholly by Rommel de la Cruz.

The album, composed of 10 tracks, can be described as easy listening with an edge. Mustlistens are ‘Telepono,’ punctuated by Ian Umali’s (of P.O.T. fame) funk-laden riffs and the poignant yet groovy ‘So Blue.’ Evidence of Sinosikat’s? unusual ability to successfully couple emotion and aggression, in their lyrics and execution respectively, is heard throughout — soul even the most hardcore rock enthusiast will enjoy.

Maharot

by Kamikazee Yet another band that had humble beginnings gigging at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Kamikazee – closely linked to the Pambansang Banda ng Pilipinas, Parokya ni Edgar (PNE) – is every bit as crazy as the latter. Kamikazee shares with PNE a penchant for hilarious (bordering on rude) lyrics, wild boy antics and over-the-top performances; but the most significant thing they hold in common is their undeniable mass appeal.

For all their shenanigans, shrugging them off as just another rock act would be putting your foot into your mouth as they have been the recipient of numerous awards: most recently, their phenomenal win at the 2007 Awit Awards: Song of the Year, Best Rock, Best Performance by a Group Artist (all for ‘Narda’), Music Video of the Year (‘Martyr Nyebera’), and Album of the Year (Maharot).

Besides the obvious, great tracks in Maharot are ‘My Tender Bear,’ ‘Shoot Dat Bol,’ and ‘Chiksilog.’ Actually, the entire album (plus the thrown in AVCD with the ‘Narda’ music video among others) makes for enjoyable listening to jumpstart your day or for when your boss mouths off and the only thing you can do is stick your earphones in and listen to something that replaces the need for bloody retaliation. Here, the comparison to PNE ends as Kamikazee’s music lies on rock’s heavier side. But fans of the soft side need not fear because Kamikazee keeps you guessing with tracks like ‘Ambisyoso’ and of course ‘Narda.’ Give them some credit.

Like PNE, they earned their media mileage.

All books and CDs are available at Fully Booked, Philippines. Visit www.fullybookedonline.com for more information.

94 MANILA’S HOT RELEASES

A Man and His Music: An Autobiography

by Angel M. Peña

Mention the name Angel Matias Peña in a conversation with genuine jazz aficionados and this will probably earn you a nod of acknowledgement— “there is some hope for you after all,” that nod would begin to say for he whom you mentioned is undisputedly one of the country’s most revered jazz composers and senior of musicians. This book is his remarkable life story.

Pena chronicles his dogged and sincere pursuit of musical excellence, from his early days playing the guitar for the Malabon Recreational Hall Orchestra for just one peso per performance to his obra maestra, the Igorot Jazz Fantasy, which has its roots in a traditional lullaby called ‘Bagbagtulambing.’ Pena’s masterful combination of the latter with American swing gave birth to Pinoy Jazz.

The wonderful thing about this book is that despite his numerous accolades, the author’s humility is evident in every word he writes. It is almost as if he does not believe how great a musical mastermind he is.

More admirable is his selflessness borne from a need to share his gift with his countrymen for the country, rather than perform for the sake of wallowing in his own fame.

The Invisible Palace

Underground in Japan

by Rey Ventura

When you first see this book you may think that it’s about the male version of the comfort women during the Japanese occupation, but it is actually more disturbing in the far from pleasant, mundane yet not widely spoken of reality of its subject matter.

Underground in Japan is the first installation of a “planned trilogy” about the lives of Filipino illegal immigrants in Japan. This book was first published in 1992 and covers a time period of 15 years, and is written by a man who experienced it first-hand.

by Joel Tesoro

It is the year 1996 in Java when a freelance journalist, Fuad Muhammad Syafruddin (or Udin) is found beaten to death with no trace of his murderer. Later on, a young man, who has no real knowledge of his supposed victim, is tried for the killing. Udin’s camp rallies to find the real killers while the Javanese police are determined to pull off the cover-up of the decade.

This is a story of a young Filipino who is lured back to Japan by a pair of unscrupulous Japanese would-be journalists. With one month left marked on his student visa, Rey, as he is named, decides to cast his lot with fellow Filipinos who are infinitely more hospitable yet in constant danger of being discovered due to their TNT (tago ng tago) status.

This book is the product of over two years of tireless research gleaned from in-depth interviews and confidential material, including court records, written by a Filipino named Jose Manuel Tesoro.

As the month passes, he is faced with the daily uncertainty of securing a job, on one hand, and dealing with the harsh conditions finding one, on the other.

He discovers that existence in Kotobuki, the Filipino enclave in Yokohama, is depressing, unstable, and treacherous. With a host of interesting characters and a peephole into the assimilation patterns of our countrymen, this book’s real importance lays in that it sheds some much-needed light on those who choose to take the path of the TNT, and despite the difficulties, do not stray from it.

Tesoro, incidentally, the son of esteemed fashion designer Patis Tesoro, is a reporter who has done work for Wired, East, and The Economist Intelligence Unit. Tesoro, formerly Jakarta correspondent for Asiaweek magazine, is a graduate of Yale University and is currently studying law at Harvard.

Named a 2005 Kiriyama Prize Notable Book in Non-Fiction, The Invisible Palace is a well-written, well-researched account of one of the most controversial cases in Indonesian history. It is also a fascinating bird’s eye view of the Javanese way of life and their deeply rooted beliefs in superstition and magic.

I know What To Do Essays 2000-2004’ Pinoy Success Handbook

by Jeffrey ‘Ximo’ Ramos So you want to be successful – but do you know what to do? Author Jeffrey Ximo Ramos unlocks the secrets to achievement in his substantial motivational tome ‘I Know What To Do’. Lifted from his personal learnings from the challenges and triumphs of living in the United Arad Emirates, the book is packed with useful tips and fundamental truths that can help you accomplish your dreams. It is divided into three main sections – How to be successful, how to maintain success and how not to get corrupted by success. With its words of wisdom, not to mention the writers’ interestingly casual style and wit, the book promises to be a veritable ‘success handbook’ one would eagerly be reaching for, from time to time.

Available in the UAE through Illustrado.

Please call 04-365 4543 to reserve your copy or e-mail info@illustrado.net

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Let your child experience the joy of learning The joy of learning is often a nightmare for a lot of normal, bright, intelligent children – just because no one has recognized the difference in the way they learn.

Understand their frustration – and acknowledge their special learning needs.

We at De La Salle Montessori recognize the difference.

The DLSM SPED (Special Education) Program Call us at 04-398 6218