JUAN Philippines Magazine-Your Ultimate Travel Guide

YOUR ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE

PHILIPPINES

Let's hit the Beach!

5 in JUAN

Discover Tranquility Nagsasa Cove

Get a dose of these Tablets Galore

Vol. 6 No. 2

JUAN is your Ultim

We have transformed the maga

Distributed around the different

JUAN Philippines will rev Philippines, we are the ultimate at www.juanphilippines.com! Wi

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mate Travel Guide!

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azine to be the number one free travel lifestyle magazine in the Philippines today.

t airports in Manila, Cebu and Clark, in the different call centers in Metro Manila, several hotels, resorts and even in coffee shops around the city.

volutionize the way Filipinos travel. With tips on where to go and what to do in the tour guide on print AND online. Can’t find a copy of the magazine? Download us th our 50,000 free distribution and an average of 300,000 monthly visitors online

ed the magazine last September!), how can you go wrong in advertising with us?

JUAN Philippines. Travel. Life. Style. juanphilippines@gmail.com (02) 7714332

Contents

April-May 2011

20

JUAN'S Feature

Summer Stumbling for 2011

16

Equipped Tablets

JUAN'S Destination Nagsasa Cove

JUAN'S Destination Tawi-Tawi

4

Philippines 路 April-May 2011

11

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Travel Tips

In the Philippines, it is always advised to bring clothes for hot weather. Bring light clothes. It’s alal ways safe to have those handy white shirts around.

Like in any foreign country, be careful of pickpockpickpock ets. Always bring that handy insect-repellant. When shopping, always haggle. Mingle with the locals.

They always give the best tips. Be adventurous!

Pack light. Bring only essentials like sunscreen, medicine, at least two swimsuits, extra plastic bags, a pair of slippers, one formal clothing (just in case), toiletries, camera and extra money. Plan your outfits

prior to leaving to avoid packing too much or too little. Write down all you intend to do to be more organized.

Keep your cash hidden in different places just in case you lose something. Make sure you leave some room in your luggage for souvenirs or other purchases.

Research about the place before traveling. It's best to be informed about weather conditions, local customs, hangouts, etc.

USEFUL DIALECTS ENGLISH Good Day Good Morning Good Afternoon Good Evening How are you?

Thank you Yes No How much?

Goodbye Please Im sorry What is your name?

Take Care When Who What expensive

TAGALOG Magandang Araw Magandang Umaga Magandang Hapon Magandang Gabi Kamusta ka?

Salamat Oo Hindi Magkano?

Paalam Pakiusap Patawad Anong Pangalan mo?

Ingat Kelan?

Sino?

Ano? Mahal

BICOL Dios na Marhay na aldaw Dios Marhay na aga Dios Marhay na hapon Dios Marhay na banggi Kamusta po kamo?

Dios mabalos Opo/Oho Dae/Wara po Gurano?

Paaram Tabi Patawarun mo ako Anong pangaran mo?

Mag-ingat Noarin Siisay ano? napakamahal iyan

ILOCANO Naimbag nga aldawmo Naimbag a bigat Naimbag a malem Naimbag a rabii Kumustak?

Agyamanak Wen Saan Manu?

Agpakadaakon Pangngaasi Pakawan Ania ti naganmo?

Ag aluad ka Kaano Asino Ania Nagnginan

April-May 2011 ·

Philippines

5

Publisher Teddy V. Cruz III twitter.com/teddycruz Editorial Consultant Cori Gillego Creative Director Mike Mesina muiggz_17@yahoo.com Contributors Writers Carlo Acetre, Eileen Campos, Excel V. Dyquiangco Photographers Carlo Acetre, Excel V. Dyquiangco, Jessica Corpuz

JUAN PHILIPPINES is published bi-monthly by

IDEA BUBBLE MEDIA, INC. All rights reserved.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed in this magazine belong to the writers and are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher.

The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject editorial material. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and artworks will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Every care is taken to ensure that the content of Juan Philippines is fully accurate; however, the publisher and the printer assume no responsibility for the effects arising therefrom.

Address all correspondence to: Penthouse I, South Center Tower, 2206 Market St., Madrigal Business Park, Muntinlupa City, Philippines Tel. (632) 771-IDEA; 215-7051 Fax (632) 836-9052

Publisher’s Note We welcome you to our April-May Issue. The Hot Sun is upon us; cool down by checking out what’s in this Summer Issue.

Anyway, it’s Summer time. It’s time to have fun under the sun!

In this issue, we take you to JUAN’s Top 5 Beach Destinations. Walk with us through the sands of breathtaking scenery.

Also in this issue, take a trip w/ us to Nagsasa Cove, Zambales. Discover its pristine waters flanked by pine trees all around.

Experience Tawi-Tawi's colorful landscape.

Get a dose of the latest tablets out on the market that are perfect for work and play.

Our website www.juanphilippines.com is still averaging over 300,000 hits per month! For this, we thank you.

Juan Philippines Vol. 6 No. 2

Join our !

Like page by searching www.juanphilippines.com now!

Follow us on twitter.com/juanphilippines Visit our website www.juanphilippines.com.

We would also like to thank all of you who answered the call to “Be JUAN of us”.

We really appreciate your comments and emails of support. We also would like to give special mention to our generous contributors namely Ms. Eileen Campos, Mr. Carlo Acetre, Mr. Excel V. Dyquiangco, Ms. Jessica Corpuz. Thank you so much for your generosity. Trust that every issue we make, we have you all in mind.

We’re excited as we put out another issue of JUAN Philippines Magazine.

JUAN Philippines Magazine is charting another adventure.

Discover and explore the picturesque landscape, azure beaches, captivating sunsets, warm welcoming smiles and the 7,107 islands.

Experience them all here.

Just Us And No other Philippines.

Explore, Experience & Enjoy the Philippines now!

Let JUAN be Your Ultimate Travel Guide!

Teddy Cruz, III PUBLISHER

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Philippines · April-May 2011

Island Pride

10

Philippines 路 April-May 2011

Nagsasa Cove

Nagsasa Cove Text and Photos by Carlo Lorenzo K. Acetre

April-May 2011 路

Philippines 11

JUAN's Destination When one thinks of Zambales, the first things that come to mind are Subic, the adjacent city of Olongapo, and the notorious nightlife that happens over there.

Go into the rural areas however, and you will find several hidden wonders, one of which is Nagsasa Cove. Located an hour away from Barangay Pundaquit in San Antonio, Zambales, this cove, like its neighbour Anawangin, is breathtaking and picturesque. There is no electricity and cellphone signal here, but this only satisfies our incontestable need for a break from the stress and worries of city life.

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We finally set foot on Nagsasa Cove. It was hard to not exude an expression of awe and immediate relaxation. The pine trees, the golden-brown mountains behind the cove, and the turquoise waters that sparkled in the sun were just some of the reasons why our mouths remained open in wonderment. It was almost deserted with just a few campers and other locals, so we set about exploring the long stretch of beach and what it had to offer.

A typical adventure to this place begins with an early morning bus ride to Zambales through the NLEX and some country roads. We drop down at Barangay San Antonio and the voyage continues with rented tricycles to take us to Barangay Pundaquit. Before we could even begin to get comfortable, the water greets us with a smile. It was time to board boats that will directly take us to Nagsasa Cove. The hour-long ride was dismissible as the scenic views of beaches and coves along the way put you in a trance that will prepare you for the moneymaker view that is Nagsasa Cove.

At the southern end of the cove, you can find interesting rock formations and a trail leading to the mountains that commands an awe-inspiring view of the entire cove. At the opposite side, you can find a creek and a sandbar that makes for countless photo-ops.

Sure enough, there were some professional photographers who were also capturing the beauty of this place. As the sun starts to dip over the horizon, the colors of the sky transformed to a fiery red. Now, it has turned into a totally different scene – a calmer, quieter passage from light to dusk to dark. With the smashing of the waves and the howling of the pine trees in the wind, you really do feel transported into another world.

As our bangka cuts through the rough waves of the Zambales coast, we couldn’t help but attempt to sniff in the pine trees that sprouted all along the coastline. If it wasn’t for the peppering of tropical palms here and there, you’d think the bangka transported us to Alaska or Europe. I had been to Nagsasa before and noticed this peculiarity, but never bothered to ask why. Our boatman then told us that the pine trees suddenly started growing after the 1991 Mt. Pinatubo eruption, and that the coastline was pushed forward several meters because of the ash mixing with the sand. It was a pretty interesting story to say the least.

As we said farewell the next day, my imagination and interest has been titillated. If the Philippines has that beauty nestled in its hidden coves, what more does the country offer?

How many more hidden jewels are out there waiting to be explored? I take comfort at the fact that there is life that is simple and happy, with only very minimal assistance from modern conveniences. Some of the locals in Nagsasa Cove have shown me that along with the sights, sounds and feel of this most enchanting stretch of beach I have and probably will ever see in this country, and I will always remember it as it is; raw, untouched, and pristine.

Philippines · April-May 2011

Nagsasa Cove

April-May 2011 路

Philippines 13

JUAN's Destination

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Philippines 路 April-May 2011

Nagsasa Cove

Carlo Lorenzo K. Acetre is a Customer Service Associate. He dabbles in Photography, film, music, hiking and sports.

His Dream job is to be a Travel/landscape photographer and writer

April-May 2011 路

Philippines 15

Get a dose 1

motorola xoom It has a powerful dual core processor. All the trimmings you would want for a Tablet plus a load of features that makes work and play possible. It also has custom fit portfolio case that can double as a stand. www.motorola.com

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Philippines 路 April-May 2011

of these...

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apple ipad 2 It’s 33 percent thinner and up to 15 percent lighter, it makes surfing the web, checking email, watching movies, and reading books so natural, you might forget there’s incredible technology under your fingers. The dual-core A5 chip. The same 10hour battery life. www.apple.com

3

hp touchpad It has a 9.7-inch diagonal flush capacitive multitouch display. Designed to be used alone or as a digital companion to your webOS phone, TouchPad connects you and your devices through the elegant webOS experience. Never miss an important call or SMS. www.palm.com

April-May 2011 ·

Philippines 17

Equipped

4

samsung galaxy tab It’s a 7 inch touch screen tablet that has tons of features: video conference calls, e-reader, watch movies, browse the web, listen to music, SMS messaging, All in one device. Enjoy it more with free downloadable apps. www.samsung.com/global/microsite/galaxytab

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samsung galaxy tab 10.1 It measures 8.6 mm in thickness and has a 10.1 inches touchscreen, running with Android 3.0 Honeycomb OS on a 1GHz dual-core Tegra 2 processor. equipped with 8 megapixel rear camera with LED flash and a 2 megapixel front camera. www.samsung.com/global/microsite/galaxytab

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Philippines · April-May 2011

Tablet

6

blackberry playbook No more excuses this tablet means business . Never be out of touch again, Multimedia device that takes it to another level. Full HD resolution, full computing resolution, not just for display can be use for all applications. www.blackberry.com

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dell streak It’s an Android 2.2 based tablet, Watch, listen, play and connect with a 5" high-quality multitouch screen with Corning Gorilla Glass that fits perfectly in your hands and your pocket.

Snap pictures on the fly or grab video with a rear-facing 5 MP camera or the front-facing 1.3MP camera. www.dell.com

April-May 2011 ·

Philippines 19

Photo by Jessica Corpuz

JUAN's Feature

Summer Stumbling for 2011

The blistering heat and a traveling heart are all you need to crack open Summer 2011. We’ve come to recognize summer prerequisites and new up and coming destinations that we are all excited about.

Text by Eileen Campos 20

Philippines · April-May 2011

Summer Stumbling for 2011

Caramoan This unspoilt peninsula off the coast of Camarines Sur has been the new go-to place for peace-andquiet hunters. Caramoan owes its local and international fame to the several global versions of the hit reality TV show, Survivor.

Seasons of several franchises of the series has taken to the white, powdery beaches of these little islands including the ones from France, Bulgaria, Sweden, Serbia and Israel.

Travel time to this secluded getaway is no easy feat. Even if you bypass the 8-hour bus ride from Cubao to Naga with a plane ride, the rest of the journey will feed your yearning for that tranquil tryst with nature.

From Naga, there is a connecting trip that you can take via jeepney, van or non-air conditioned bus going to Sabang Pier via the town of Goa. That’s another two hours of travel. From the pier, another two hours are spent on the water going to Guijalo Pier. A final tricycle ride can drop you off at the town center or to that sweet bed most people crash into after that extensive journey.

It’s a long trip just to get there, an adventure of its own. But finally landing on its shores and seeing the sight of the islands and dipping into the pristine clear blue water can and will strip every ounce of exhaustion from your body.

April-May 2011 ·

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JUAN's Feature

Bantayan Island Cebu the beauty of this island and only little travel time from the Mactan International Airport too.

Don’t forget your pasalubong!

This area is known for the dried and salted fish products that are eventually exported to other provinces. Comically, you could bring home Bantayan’s top export on the island, chicken eggs. Handle with care, please!

Photo by Owee Salva

Tread towards one of the Philippines top provincial destinations, Cebu, and take a different trip separate to local city highlights. Discover the northern territory and immerse yourself in a half-secret, fully-isolated destination known as Bantayan Island. The long stretch of sand is frequently visited by locals and foreigners, who end up being locals themselves, eventually. Such is

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Philippines · April-May 2011

Summer Stumbling for 2011

Coron Island This is the new Palawan staple.

Coron has been invaded by divers, snorkelers and seekers of a nonparty beach scene for the past few years. You can never run out of resorts, rooms, inns to choose from either run by locals or foreigners who could just not walk away from Coron. Though diving has to be the top draw of this island north of Palawan, there are several other sites and activities that hoard the tourists in.

With several islands surrounding it, there are of course, the top two on most visitors’ lists: Malcapuya, which is a lone island without

any infrastructure and fine sand that rivals Boracay’s, and Culion, which is the former leper colony that features a museum with presentations of the island’s history.

Of course, people flock to the aptly dubbed “cleanest lake in the Philippines.” The Kayangan Lake in Coron has always been the most photographed spot that boasts postcard-worthy shots almost every time and so rightfully so. The entire province takes great pride in conserving the environment as we all should be.

April-May 2011 ·

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JUAN's Feature

Boracay No summer list would be complete with a mention of dear old, Boracay. People will continue to discover it and regulars will never tire of it because Boracay is always reinventing itself while at the same time playing at the nostalgia button by being that familiar beach anybody can call home.

degree view of Boracay Island.

Regulars will head on to bars, resorts and restaurants that are familiar and island mainstays. All night party people will witness the world-renowned sunset and trek unto to Bulabog Beach after an all-nighter and watch the sunrise crawl from below the water.

First timers will head on and take island-hopping trips to Crocodile Island, Crystal Cove and Puka Beach. And take that ATV or buggy ride that leads to a 360-

There is and will always be something for everybody: any age, any budget, any fitness level and any nationality. It is one of the world’s best beaches for a reason.

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Philippines · April-May 2011

Summer Stumbling for 2011

Calaguas Island Over at Bicol, Camarines Norte has cocked its tourism gun loaded with ammo that can battle the thriving fort that is Camarines Sur. And its name is Calaguas Island. Now this is a place where you can really rough it. With the absence of swanky new luxury resorts, the island features basic nipa huts or pitched tents on the ground as prime accommodation. Don’t expect to see restaurants or sari-sari stores so pack your own supplies, even water.

Smell the sunshine pouring through the clear summer sky. It is time to get up and get moving.

The Philippines’s top summer destinations are waiting for you to discover them.

Photo by Jessica Corpuz

The main cove, fittingly named as Mahabang Buhangin that translates into “Long Beach/Sand,” is located on Tinaga Island and is only a couple of hours by boat from the mainland.

Life on Calaguas is simple and so the activities available on the island are minimal and require only the bare necessities. Snorkelling and diving, along with island hopping, are the top activities here. But simply enjoying the long stretch of sand, the quiet and the isolation is enough to satisfy those who trek towards Calaguas.

April-May 2011 ·

Philippines 25

JUAN for the roAd

CheCklist: 1. Be sure to have your vehicle check before the trip.

2. Check Tire condition of vehicle.

3. Check spare tire 4. Windshield wipers 5. First aid Kit 6. Draw up an itinerary for the trip.

7. Tool kit 8. Bottled water 9. Snacks 10. Road Map of Destination or GPS 11. Celphone Car Charger 12. Your trusty Ipod or MP3 13. Digital Camera 14. Don’t forget your luggage.

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ROADTRIP TIPs Long travels can somehow be exhausting and dull; it can sometimes make you feel impatient that you end up snoring at the back seat in the middle of an exciting trip (boo you!).But not if you have travel buddies that make you feel comfy and relaxed. Consider these buddies that can make you feel the road seem a lil’ bit shorter: • Embrace comfort. Bring assorted sizes of pillows. There is nothing more comfy than having a fluffy pillow to hug whenever you feel like you want to doze off during the trip.

• Let your feet breathe. Don’t be too harsh on your feet. Please bring yourself a good pair of slippers.

During travel breaks, it’s nice to give your precious toes a room to breathe so it would feel more relaxed for the next few kilometers drive.

Philippines · April-May 2011

• Music mate. Make sure to bring your mp3 player or ipod with you (with your favorite playlist) because it keeps you away from the monopoly of a potential long journey. And also, a trip is better off with a little stomping of the feet while singing along with your travel pals.

• Comfort Food. Pack light and easyto-carry snacks like peanut butter sandwiches, granola bars and lots of chips to munch on.

• Portable Games. To keep yourself active, do not forget to bring your Nintendo DS, PSP or Ipod Touch (or even your laptop) to supplement your gaming/surfing satisfaction during the trip. It’s always helpful to have a gadget that make the miles fly. Of course, not while driving, okay?

JUAN's Feature

I

Tawi-Tawi Text and Photos by Excel V. Dyquiangco

The sight of land was very much a welcome delight as we finally docked in Bongao, the capital of Tawi-Tawi.

After seeing almost nothing (except some dolphins traipsing out in the open sea) for more than eighteen hours of ship ride, the view was simply breathtaking. Houses and shanties on stools littered the left side of the ship while a couple of teenagers – some in their wet clothes and others in dirty shirts – had run towards the ship in pure excitement. Out in the open sea, I saw little children bobbing on small boats, curiously staring at us.

No sooner had the ship started hauling off the ropes than some of those children began boarding. I didn’t know who they were and what they were here for but I later learned that they were Badjao children, wanting to extend a hand.

Since we had a couple of heavy baggage with us, we hired one of the children to help us carry them until we had descended and set afoot. As I looked around, I learned that the houses in the pier were a Badjao village, and these children often helped visitors and guests with their luggage.

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Philippines · April-May 2011

Tawi-Tawi

The pier was a little bit crowded with vehicles, people coming and going, children running, and just about every noise there is, and this reminded me of things back home – Tawi-Tawi style. We roomed in at the governor’s palatial home – a two-storey structure straight out of a movie set: rich, regal and royal. The house was also near the open sea and breathing in the fresh air did wonders to my aching muscles.

After settling down, we attended to the Agal-Agal Festival, considered to be one of the highlights of the celebration.

The Seaweed Culture I had learned that Agal-Agal basically means seaweed and in celebration of one of the main sources of livelihood in the province, the government of Tawi-Tawi has put up a trade fair that showcases what this far-off province has to offer. All the Tawi-Tawi products – the food and delicacies, the arts and crafts, the photo exhibit – were put on display.

The program started with a parade participated in by high school students of the eleven municipalities of Tawi-Tawi - their floats, props and costumes adorned with everything seaweed, which was used creatively.

Then the competition set in: all of

these groups performed their own version of the native dance. After the half a day event and the winner finally declared, we decided to take a tour of downtown Bongao, visiting the market place first. This area reminded me of La Union where I grew up: a little bit crowded and cramped with stalls offering all kinds of food and dishes. Nothing much different, except that they don’t serve and offer pork! Nevertheless, we took time out and had snacks.

The next day started off really early as the fluvial parade, rolled in. I was given the privilege to ride in one of the boats, and we went around for almost an hour. There were many activities that went on after that: the motocross racing, the state of the nation address, the grand parade and program, the awarding night with a live band and many others.

I dropped by the municipal hall at one time – the structure being like that of a Muslim mosque – which overlooked the whole of Tawi-Tawi.

I stood at the steps of the hall and took in the great view, seeing the vastness of the sea and the many islands floating.

All in all, we were in Tawi-Tawi for a little more than a week, and it was a great experience, something that I would never exchange for anything.

It’s indeed one worthy place to visit when in the south.

Excel V. Dyquiangco is a Licensed Teacher, a First Grade Civil Service Passer and a freelance writer.

Check out his work on: www.wordsofart.multiply.com

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Press Release

MoeveNPiCk CebU’s sUMMer TreAT

Mövenpick Resort & Spa is finally in Cebu!

The resort offer is to provide the Mövenpick mission of “giving pleasure,” “pampering guests” and “preserving the authentic”. This together with the Filipino’s innate hospitality and the Cebuano’s natural charm at the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Cebu, ensure a most enjoyable stay to every guest, who would certainly yearn to come back.

To start acquainting everyone on the resort’s Passionately Swiss™ service; Mövenpick Resort & Spa Cebu has launched exciting treats through the Mövenpick Welcome Package. For only 6000 nett anyone can enjoy a deluxe room accommodation or a suite room at 7000 nett with breakfast for two along with a whole host of activities that will provide fun for family, a romantic escape or even a barkada blowout! And when you book a two (2) nights stay you can pick a Mövenpick Welcome Gift, a free room on your next booking, or a Mövenpick massage for two on your stay!

For the ultimate family fun, spend your day in fun water sports activities like pedal boat rides and kayaking,

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then spend a little time in the kitchen making pizzadilla for an afternoon family snack then head on to the games room for a whole host of indoor activities for the whole family! Then head out to Nalusuan Island for a family picnic and some snorkeling activity.

For a romantic escape, toast to a sweet beginning with the sparkling wine, enjoy a couple’s floral bath at the Jacuzzi tub of the Indulgence room then perhaps take advantage on the complimentary Mövenpick massage at the spa for a relaxing retreat. Then cap the night at Manny O’s with a special dinner for two with an exquisite selection of tapas paired with fine wine. Then why not add a little more excitement by going on a private flying tour on nearby islands or fly over the chocolate hills of Bohol!

Friends looking for excitement will have a blast with the water sports activities or head on for a glimpse of the city and have a kick of adrenalin with a zipline and wall climbing activities.

A sunset sip at Manny O’s will also be a wonderful way to cool down active bodies.

The Mövenpick Welcome package is open for booking from now until the

Philippines · April-May 2011

31st of May. To make your reservation to this special offer, you may call the resort at 032 492 7777 or email Resort.Cebu.Reservations@moevenpick. com.

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Cebu boats of 246 stylishly well appointed guestrooms and suites, luxurious spa and full service health club, pristine private white sand beach, three specialty restaurants, a grand ballroom and different leisure facilities including a marina, aqua sports and diving facilities which continues to draw travelers to its care and pampering.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, an upscale hotel management company with over 12,000 employees, is represented in 30 countries with over 90 hotels existing or under construction. Focussing on expansion in its core markets of Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia, the international hotel group specialises in business and conference hotels, as well as holiday resorts. Of Swiss origin, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts positions itself in the upscale segment and stands for quality, reliability and care with a personal touch. The hotel group is owned by Mövenpick Holding (66.7%) and the Kingdom Group (33.3%).

FAsT FAcTs GENERAL INFORMATION The Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands covering a land area of 115,739 sq. m. (299,764 sq. km.). Main island groups are Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Capital is Manila. Time Zone is GMT + 8 hours.

CLIMATE March to May is hot and dry. June to October is rainy, November to February is cool. Average temperatures: 78°F / 25°C to 90°F / 32°C; humidity is 77% POPULATION There are a total of 76.5 million Filipinos as of the latest national census in May, 2000. Population growth is estimated at 2.36 percent annually. Luzon, the largest island group, accounts for more than half of the entire population.

LANGUAGES Two official languages --- Filipino and English. Filipino which is based on Tagalog, is the national language. English is also widely used and is the medium of instruction in higher education. Eight (8) major dialects spoken by majority of the Filipinos: Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon or Ilonggo, Bicol, Waray, Pampango, and Pangasinense.

Filipino is that native language which is used nationally as the language of communication among ethnic groups. Like any

living language, Filipino is in a process of development through loans from Philippine languages and non-native languages for various situations, among speakers of different social backgrounds, and for topics for conversation and scholarly discourse. There are about 76 to 78 major language groups, with more than 500 dialects.

RELIGIONS Some 83% of Filipinos are Catholic. About 5% are Moslem.

The rest are made up of smaller Christian denominations and Buddhist.

UNIT OF MEASURE The Metric System is used in most trade and legal transactions.

ELECTRICITY 220 volts a/c is the common standard. 110 volts a/c is also used, especially in major hotels.

CURRENCY The Philippines’ monetary unit is the peso, divided into 100 centavos. Foreign currency may be exchanged at any hotels, most large department stores, banks, and authorized money changing shops accredited by the Central Bank of the Philippines. International credit cards such as Visa, Diners Club, Bank Americard, Master Card, and American Express are accepted in major establishments.

April-May 2011 ·

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Calendar Of Events | April 2011

April 1- May 31

April 16- 30

April 18- 24

Commonwealth Ave., Diliman, Quezon City

Rizal, Cagayan

Hungduan, Ifugao

Celebrates the town fiesta of Rizal

A cultural fiesta of the Ifugaos of Hungd-

It is a multi-lateral Trade Exposition

highlighting the Malaweg ancestry and

uan which features ethnic games, rituals,

highlighting 12 renowned provincial

cooking of glutinous rice on bamboos;

arts and crafts-oriented activities.

festivals: Ati-Atihan of Aklan, Higantes

showcasing the culture in songs and

of Angono, Iloilo''s Dinagyang Festival,

dances.

FiEStA PASiKLAB

SiNABALU FEStiVAL

tUNGoH AD HUNGDUAN

Lucban''s Pahiyas to name a few.

April 21

BANGKARERA (BoAt-RowiNG RAcE)

April 2- 25

April 22- 27

Mabini, Batangas

KADAUGAN SA MActAN FEStiVAL

Penablanca, Cagayan

It gives recognition to the local native

Bgy. Mactan, Lapu-Lapi City, Cebu

A boat-rowing race on the waters of

chicken raisers. Kinulob is one way of

A week-long commemoration of the

scenic Pinacanauan River.

cooking the whole chicken with unique

historic battle of Mactan between the

presentation. Street dance competition

Spanish Conquistador Fernando Magal-

and Mutya ng Mabini pageant are some

lanes and Mactan Chieftain Lapu-Lapu.

KiNULoB FEStiVAL

of the highlights of the festival.

April 24- May 2

April 27- 30

Dagupan City, Pangasinan

San Jose, Mindoro Occidental

PiStA’Y DAYAt (tHANKSGiViNG)

Part of Dagupan''s Pista''y Dayat

Festival incorporating the exhibition of

Lingayen, Pangasinan

celebration, highlight of which is the

the cultural heritage of Mindoro’s ethnic

Thanksgiving festival for the year''s

longest bangus grill, 101 ways to cook

communities.

bountiful harvest from the sea celebrated

BANGUS FEStiVAL

SAKNUNGAN FEStiVAL

bangus, Bangus Harvest Dance parade, sports competition/exhibition.

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Philippines · April-May 2011

April 29- May 1

every 1st of May.

Calendar Of Events | May 2011

May

FLoRES DE MAYo/ SANtAcRUZAN

May 1- May 31

May 01 - 04 Davao Oriental

MAGAYoN FEStiVAL (HoNoRiNG Mt. MAYoN)

Nationwide

A regionwide float parade representing

Albay

A parade of the town's loveliest ladies

all municipalities along the gulf, con-

A festival showcasing Albay as it comes

depicting the search and discovery of

verge in one place featuring decorated

to age, its cultural heritage, trade, travel

Christ's Cross by Queen Helena and

bancas and vintas of different designs

and tourism beyond Majestic Mount

Constantine.

for competition.

Mayon. The festival includes various

DAVAo GULF REGAttA

activity such as beauty pageant, etc.

May 1- May 7

May 1- May 31

May 11- May 15

Butuan City

Lucban, Quezon

Tagaytay City

A month-long fiesta celebration of

An annual celebration to usher in a

It is conceptualized by Tagaytay tourism

Butuan City

bountiful harvest; where homes are

SUMMER FEStiVAL: PiLiPiNYAHAN

PAHiYAS FEStiVAL

BALANGAY FEStiVAL

council in coordination with the Local

decorated with the town''s best agricul-

Government unit to promote the pine-

tural products.

apple as the most appealing agricultural product in the locality.

May 13- May 14

May 14 - 18

May 23- May 31

Baguio City

FiEStA BicoLANDiA cRUiSE “PEÑAFRANciA PiLGRiMAGE”

A fashion show featuring beauties and

Cebu City

Procession of biblical characters and

designers from North Philippines

Bringing the best of the Bicol region

the traditional sagalas representing

products, festivals, arts and crafts,

the Blessed Virgin’s attributes. On this

among others highlighted by the proces-

festivity one can also witness the city’s

sion of Our Lady of Peñafrancia.

prettiest promenade.

SANtA cRUZAN iN BAGUio "SABSABoNG ti MAYo"

SANtAcRUZAN witH KUMBiRA

Rizal Blvd., Dumaguete City

April-May 2011 ·

Philippines 33

Directory EMBASSiES

Australia Level 23 Tower 2 RCBC Plaza Ayala Avenue, Makati City (63-2) 757-8100 Austria 4th Floor Prince Building, 112 Roda St. Legaspi Village, Makati City (63-2) 817-9191; (63-2) 817-4992 Bangladesh 2nd flr. Ayala Wing BPI Bldg., 106 Paseo de Roxas cor.

Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City (63-2) 817-5010; (63-2) 817-5001 Cambodia Unit 7-A 7th Flr. Country Space Bldg. Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City (63-2) 818-9981 Canada Level 6-8, Tower 2, RCBC Plaza 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City (63-2) 867-0001; (63-2) 867-0002 Chile 17th Flr. Liberty Center Building 104 H.V. de la Costa corner Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati City (63-2) 810-3149; (63-2) 810-3687 China 4896 Pasay Road, Dasmarinas Village, Makati City (63-2) 844-3148 Colombia 18th Flr. Aurora Tower, Araneta Center, Quezon City (63-2) 911-3101

34

Cuba Penthouse, Cacho Gonzales Bldg.101 Aguirre corner Trasierra Streets, Legaspi Village, Makati City (63-2) 817-1192

Israel 23rd Flr., Trafalgar Plaza, 105 H.V. Dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati City (63-2) 892-5329 to 32 (63-2) 894-0441 to 43

Czech Republic 30th Flr. Rufino Pacific Tower, Ayala Avenue, Makati City (63-2) 811-1155

Italy 6th Flr., ZETA Building, 191 Salcedo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City (63-2) 892-4531 to 34 19091012200 (Visa)

Egypt 2229 Paraiso Cor. Banyan St. Dasmarinas Village, Makati City (63-2) 843-9220; (63-2) 843-9232

Japan 2627 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City (63-2) 551-5710

Finland 21st Floor BPI Center, Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City (63-2) 891-5011 to 17

Korea 10th Flr. Pacific Star Bldg, Sen. Gil Puyat corner Makati Avenue, Makati City (63-2) 8116139-44

France 16th Flr. Pacific Star Building, Sen Gil Puyat corner Makati Avenue, Makati City (63-2) 8576900; 811-1001 to 04

Kuwait 1230 Acacia Road, Dasmarinas Village, Makati City (63-2) 887-6880 to 84

Germany 25/F Tower 2, RCBC Plaza 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City (63-2) 702-3000; (63-2) 702-3015 India 2190 Paraiso St., Dasmarinas Village, Makati City (63-2) 843-0101; (63-2) 843-0102 Indonesia 185 Salcedo Street Legaspi Village, Makati City (63-2) 892-5061 to 68 (63-2) 818-4441 Iran 37 McKinley Road, Forbes Park, Makati City (63-2) 888-4757 to 59

Philippines 路 April-May 2011

Libya 1644 Dasmarinas Village, Makati City (63-2) 817-7331 to 32 Malaysia 10th - 11th Floor The World Center Bldg. No. 330, Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City (63-2) 864-0761 to 68 Mexico 2157 Paraiso Street, Dasmarinas Village, Makati City 1222 (63-2) 812-2211/12/13 (63-2) 812-2225 (Consular) Netherlands 26th Flr., Equitable PCI Bank Tower, 8751 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City Tel. (632) 786-6666 Fax (632) 786-6600

Directory New Zealand 23rd Floor BPI Center, Sen. Gil Puyat Ave, Makati City (63-2) 891-5358 to 67

South Africa 29th Flr. Yuchengco Tower, RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala Ave., Makati City (63-2) 889-9383 (Trunk Line)

Nigeria 2211 Paraiso St., Makati City (63-2) 843-9866; (63-2) 843-9868

Spain 5th Floor ACT Tower, 135 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, 1227 Makati City (chancery) 818-5526; 759-2971 (Embassy) 818-3561; 818-3581; (Consulate) 7592970

Norway 21st Flr., Petron Mega Plaza Bldg., 358 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City (63-2) 886-3245 to 49 Pakistan 6th Flr., Alexander House, 132 Amorsolo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City (63-2) 817-2772; (63-2) 817-2776 Portugal 17th Flr., Unit D Trafalgar Plaza, 105 H.V. Dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati City (63-2) 848-3789 to 90 Qatar 2056 Lumbang St. corner 1398 Caballero Street, Dasmarinas Village, Makati City (63-2) 887-4944 to 45 Russian Federation 1245 Acacia Road, Dasmarinas Village, Makati City (63-2) 810-9614; (63-2) 893-0190 Saudi Arabia 389 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City (63-2) 890-9735 Singapore No. 505, Rizal Drive, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City (63-2) 856-9922; (63-2) 856-9932

36

Sri Lanka 2260 Avocado Avenue, Dasmarinas Village, Makati City (63-2) 887-5222; (63-2) 887-5223 Sweden 16th Flr. Equitable PCI Bank Tower 2 Makati Avenue cor.

H.V. dela Costa St., Makati City (63-2) 811-7900 Switzerland 24th Flr. Equitable Bank Tower 8751 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City 757-9000; 757-9001 (Visa) Thailand Royal Thai Embassy Bldg., 107 Rada St., Legaspi Village, Makati City 815-4219 to 20; 816-0696 to 97; 810-3833; 817-4262 (Consular) Turkey 2268 Paraiso Street, Dasmarinas Village, Makati City (63-2) 843-9705; (63-2) 843-9707 United Arab Emirates 2nd Flr., Renaissance Bldg., 215 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City

Philippines · April-May 2011

United Kingdom 120 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Hill, Taguig City (63-2) 858-2200 United States of America Chancery Building, 1201 Roxas Boulevard, Manila Tel: 528-6300 Fax: 522-4361 Venezuela Unit 17 A, Multinational Bancorporation Center, 6805 Ayala Avenue, Makati City (632) 845-2841; 845-2842 Vietnam 670 Pablo Ocampo St., Malate, Manila 521-6843; 525-2837; 524-0364 European Union 30/F Tower II, RCBC Plaza 6819 Senator Gil Puyat corner Ayala Ave., 1200 Makati City 859-5100 Dot oFFicES

DOT – NCR Rm. 207 DOT Building, TM Kalaw St., Ermita, Manila Tel. (02) 524-2345; 525-6114; 524-6566; 523-8411 DOT- REGION VII G/F LDM Building, Lapu- Lapu City, Cebu Tel. (032) 254-2811; 254-6077 DOT- BORACAY FIELD OFFICE Balabag, Boracay Malay, Aklan Tel. (036) 288-3689

Directory AiRLiNES

BUS LiNES

PAL Express R1 Hangar ATC, Gate 1 Andrews Ave., Nichols, Pasay City Tel (63-2) 855 9000 Fax (63-2) 851-7922

BLTB EDSA, Malibay, Pasay City Tel (63-2) 833-5508

Makati Shangri-La Hotel Manila Ayala Corner Makati Avenue, Makati City (63-2) 813- 8888; (63-2) 813- 5499

Phase II Bus Terminal Ali Mall Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City Tel (63-2) 913-1526

Mandarin Oriental Manila Makati Avenue, Makati City (63-2) 750-8888; (63-2) 819- 9659

Philippine Rabbit 1240 EDSA, Balintawak Tel (63-2) 364-3477

Manila Diamond Hotel Roxas Boulevard corner Dr. J. Quintos Street, Manlia (63-2) 528- 3000; (63-2) 305- 3000

Zest Air Domestic Road corner Andrews Avenue, Pasay City Tel (02) 855-3333 Fax (63-2) 851-1804 to 05 Cebu Pacific Air 16/F Robinson’s Equitable Tower, ADB Avenue corner Poveda St. Ortigas Center, Pasig City Tel (63-2) 636-4938 Fax (63-2) 637-9165 Philippine Airlines G/F Philippine Airlines Center, Legaspi Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City Tel (63-2) 855-8888 Fax (63-2) 853-7725 SEAIR 1020 2/F Dona Concepcion Bldg. Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City Tel (63-2) 884-1521 Fax (63-2) 844-3813 SHiPPiNG coMPANiES

RENt - A- cAR

Budget Nayong Pilipino Compound, Pasay City Tel (63-2) 888-6513 Fax (63-2) 851-0931 Nissan UPRC Building 3, 2289 Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati City Tel (63-2) 816-1808 HotELS

Negros Navigation Company Pier 2, North Harbor, Tondo, Manila Tel (63-2) 245-5588 Fax (63-2) 247-7427 WG&A Superferry 12/Floor Times Plaza Tower corner United Nations and Taft Avenue, Ermita, Manila Tel (63-2) 528-7100 Fax (63-2) 528-7107

Manila Hotel One Rizal Park, 1099 Manila (632) 527- 0011; (632) 527- 0022/24

Avis 2/F Guevent Commercial Center Libertad Street, Mandaluyong City (63-2) 533-0861; (63-2) 714-4060 to 61 Fax (63-2) 533-0785

Discovery Suites 25 ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City Tel (63-2) 635-2222 Fax (63-2) 683-8333 Hyatt Regency Manila 2702 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City (63-2) 833- 1234; (63-2) 833- 5913

The Peninsula Manila Ayala corner Makati Ave., Makati City (63-2) 810- 3456; (63-2) 815- 4825 Hotel Veniz #1 Abanao St., Baguio City (632) 4460700 to 03; (632) 4460704 09175060701 Inn Rocio #68 Kisad Road, Baguio City (632) 4424028 (632) 4426535 Microtel Inn & Suites 2/F Phinma Bldg., 166 Salcedo St, Legaspi Village Makati City (632) 6193333; (632) 6193344 09275164129 Baguio Country Club Country Club Road (632) 6192050 to 64; (632) 4427674

April-May 2011 ·

Philippines 37

Parting Shot

SeNd US YoUr PhotoS: We would like to publish your travel photos in the magazine. If these includes images of your friends and family, we may require you to send paperwork in order for us to publish your photos.

For those photos to appear, we need either high resolution color scans (300 dpi) or you can send print copies of your photos.

Please do not send originals, since we may not be able to return them to you.

Email those photos to juanphilippines@gmail.com now!

38

Philippines 路 April-May 2011

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