Gensan Gazer Jan-Feb 2011 by Armando Nicolas PJ

Gensan Gazer

HAPPY 72ND FOUNDING ANNIVERSAR GENSAN! Y,

HAPPYINE! VALENT

HAPPY KALILANGAN 2011!

GONG XI FA CAI!

2nd Foundation nsang’sa7n 2011! e G n Congratulations opy Kalilan ap Anniversary & H

Live Life Here!

he exclusive lifestyle that awaits you at Camella General Santos only gets better and more colorful with the expansion of the gated community to nearly 10 more hectares of quality homes and landscaped lawns along NLSA Road in Barangay San Isidro, and the future addition of a commercial center at the estate’s main façade.

Isn’t it about time you called Camella your home?

Camella General Santos, 2nd Flr, Mandarin Tea House, South Osmeña St, General Santos City (083) 553 3377 | www. camella.com.ph

O O

Camella

rom the sea’s bounty to the land’s mystique to its people’s charm, all roads lead to the first and only premiere Caribbeaninspired community in SoCCSKSarGen -- Camella General Santos. A beautifully evolving new landscape spanning 12 hectares of prime residential land, this impeccably masterplanned community offers real luxury within reach to diverse homeowners -- the newly independent, newly-weds and start-up couples, big families, pensioners, practically across all income brackets. With fast and easy access to schools, malls, markets,

City Hall, the business district, and the second largest international airport in the South, Camella Gensan features exquisitely themed houses that are spacious and built in harmony with its tropical setting and the Caribbean ambience. The community is cable- and Internet-ready, with amenities such as a grand entrance plaza, an elegant clubhouse and a tastefully designed pool to match, gardens, children’s playground, multi-court activity area, tree-lined roads with flood-proof drainage, a CCTV monitoring system and 24-hour security, and all these, managed by an independent property management team to ensure quality, continuity, and service excellence.

Image-photo collage by Man

di Nicolas

We’ve widened our horizons,

and if the physical expansion of our pages from 7 to 8 inches wide is any indication, we’re off to a good start. We’re now also available at selected shops and magazine stands -- if only so you won’t have to grumble all the way to your usual coffee place just to browse the magazine for free. (We’ve seen some of you stash our magazine into your ample hand bag when you thought no one was looking, and truth be told, we were quite thrilled that you did. You didn’t have to do that this time, however -- you can now finally buy yourself and your friends a copy, and read us on the go guilt-free. (The eZines will be available online still, but sure, nothing beats flipping through our pages with your own fingertips.) And did we say we added more pages?

So what’s in store for you in the newly

packaged Gensan Gazer? You get double the dose of the features and stories you’ve followed from day one, and immerse deeper into what makes your city / country / world not such a bad place to live in. Simply put, you get -- or in less existentialist terms -- you experience more. Gensan Gazer will remain true to its local flavor, but will never close its eyes to the bigger picture unfolding elsewhere on the planet. We’d like to think of General Santos as a global city, and it just might be in one way or another. The magazine renews its green agenda and the improvement of the human condition, however small and subtle its efforts may be. We’re only a small drop in the ocean, but perhaps that’s where we should all begin to make a difference.

We reverse our covers. More radically

we place the typical front cover (above) at the back to shake things up a little bit, where we start off (or wind down) with a collage -- anachronistic in some parts, clichéd in some, and just plain fun and colorful in others -- of things (some of them anyway) that litter the background of Year 2011’s graceful, if not slowpaced entrance. And taking its place is the faux cover (right), our iconoclastic take on double covers and journalistic traditionbashing. (Japanese and Chinese books are read with the pages turning to the right, in contrast to our left, so who’s to say where we should look first? We’re just glad the home-made insulation worked, and our extreme artistmodel Marthin Millado

From the Editor

Armando Nicolas P J EDITOR Egai Cadiente Bing Cariño Donna Mae Congson Romarie Ivy Cunanan Apple Greatson Francisco Avel Manansala Orman Manansala Marthin Millado CONTRIBUTORS Jay Harvey G J CIRCULATION Gensan Gazer™ Magazine is published by Armanikolas Publishing ®™ and printed by Gregoria Printing Press in General Santos City, Philippines.

and lensman extraordinaire Apple Greatson Francisco lived to tell the tale.) After all, it’s what you pack between the covers that matters most. Sure, do judge this mag by its covers! Inside we shed light on Kalilangan 2011’s return to our roots, gracing and bracing itself to face The Challenge of Change: Preserving Traditions. We also take a look at Gensan’s very own Santo Niño procession, Sinulogstyle, only smaller in scale and all the more intimate. Our columnists Avel, Bing, Donna, Egai and Romarie come in full force, too, as we welcome to the family Apple’s photo spread, The Acute Eye. Lest we forget, we say our battle cry out loud: Gensan Ground. Global Groove. Armando Nicolas P J

Gensan Gazer

GENSAN GAZER

Gensan Gazer shall not, without the consent of the Publisher, be given, lent, resold, used as textbook, hired out or otherwise disposed of; or affixed to any part of any publication or advertising material in any way whatsoever. While all reasonable care is taken for contributed material, no responsibility will be assumed for its return or for corrections. Opinions expressed or implied in Gensan Gazer are solely those of the authors, and are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor or Publisher. Advertisers and/or their representatives shall indemnify the Publisher in relation to any concomitant slander, defamation, breach, royalties, intellectual property and copyright infringements, unfair trade practices, or violation of privacy rights in their ad material. All photographic and story contributions must be submitted to writing@gensangazer.com and are subject to editorial review for possible inclusion in any issue of Gensan Gazer. Armanikolas Publishing ®™ B34 - L7 Doña Soledad II A, Espina Gen. Santos City 9500 Philippines Phone : +63 83 826 9221 Phone : +63 83 554 7055 Mobile : +63 908 337 3005 Website : www.armanikolas.com Website : www.gensangazer.com Email: inquiry@armanikolas.com Email: inquiry@gensangazer.com Email: advertising@gensangazer.com

City Hall Snapshots

Pop Pizzazz: Of Coming Home

Travel Tales & Trivia: Beach Bums

Arts Attack | Culture Shock: History Right under Our Feet

Home Front: Hosting a Party

Green Living: Green & Local Kitchen, Frugal is Green?

Local Gem: Via Pit Señor | Gensan Welcomes the Holy Child

Health Bits: Pepperment Tea Benefits, Top 10 Detox Methods

Gensan Gazer’s 200/33

Gadget/Tools: Blackberry Torch | Seen. Heard. Read.

Movie Buff: Inspirational Movies

Gensan Gazer in Singapore

Radio Head: Hear It All, Foal’s Total Life Forever

Back to Basics: Sticking to New Year’s Resolutions, Too Late to Change, 4 Personal Development Skills, To Forgive

EXCLUSIVE: Kalilangan 2011, Message from the Mayor and MSU Chancellor, Cultural Night, Festival Highlights, Calendar of Events, Secretariat

Dancing Orange

Places to Go

Kasalang Filipino 2011

Lakan at Lakambini ng Gensan

Donna & Romarie Back-to-Back

The Acute Eye: Paparazzi

Reverse Cover: Hello 2011, We’re Back to Basics!

Boys on Show

For a change of pace and some light amusement, Gensan commuters now get to see a free show of dance moves at busy intersections in the city. Human traffic lights, more popularly known here as the Orange Boys -- 14 urban traffic enforcers that mimic the electronic traffic device but with Jacko killer moves -- have been recently deployed at the city’s major highway bottlenecks.

City Hall Snap Shots by Avel Manansala City Hall Employees Get New Getup

For the past 6 years the employees of Gensan’s local government have been wearing blue. Soon it will be a new look for all 1,800 of them as they don the color Peach Twill 207, which looks pink from a distance. For the first time, Gensan’s official slogan -- Magandang Gensan -- is embroidered on the left chest side of the uniforms. After a short but impressive performance during the launch of the Dancing Traffic Enforcers Project of Mayor Darlene AntoninoCustodio recently, the first batch of traffic dancers were dispatched to their posts, mostly highway crossings, where showed off their newly-honed terpsichorean skills. The project is managed by Assistant City Administrator Glennville Gonzalez, who oversaw that his men acquire MP3 players and train to dance to Billy Jean while mastering their traffic hand signals. The Orange Boys man the RD Plaza Junction, Pendatun-Highway, Roxas-Highway, Leon Llido-Highway, Gaisano Entrance-Highway, and Bula-Lagao Road-Highway intersections.

MSU-GSC Steers Kalilangan 2011

Mayor Darlene Antonino-Custodio announced in a letter dated January 26, 2011 to the city’s business and educational establishments that General Santos City’s 72nd Foundation Anniversary and the 22nd Kalilangan would be jointly handled by the City Government and Mindanao State University through its Chancellor, Atty. Abdurrahman T. Canacan. She enjoined all Generals to support and participate in the festival activities. The festival theme this year is, The Challenge of Change: Preserving Traditions. MSU was tapped because of its strong advocacy to preserve the diverse culture and rich heritage of the region.

Photo by Paul Llanos

20 41

Photo by Apple Greatson Francisco

What’s Inside ...3

Photo by Mandi Nicolas

DARLENE IS NEW RDC XII CHAIR. Gensan Mayor Darlene Magnolia R. Antonino-Custodio takes oath as the Regional Development Council Chair for Region XII at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall, Malacañang Palace on January 31, 2011, after which she is congratulated by President Benigno S. Aquino III. (CMO GenSan/Alexis Chua)

Pop Pizzazz

4...

by Egai Cadiente

Of Coming Home

Adapted from Egai’s original feature published in M Magazine

’ve come home twice. Not from stowing away, but from job engagements that brought me to hundreds of islands far, hundreds of days long. In both instances, I chose not to be ensnared by the lure and thrills of the Big City. I came back. It was beyond missing the unhurried provincial life. Perhaps, somewhere in the depths of every person is a yearning to take the path home, in space and in spirit, whenever one drifts away either by circumstance or choice. Coming home is returning to the roots. And always, it is a celebration. A few days ago, I found myself in this reverie as Kalilangan neared. The celebration is in commemoration of the City’s foundation, and it occurred to me, Kalilangan should be about coming home. When the first settlers set foot on the shores of the city on February 27, 1939, it was to be the day of the city’s founding. Seventy-two years on, the reasons to celebrate remain immeasurable. General Santos has come this far, through time’s ebb and flow. What used to be a frontier of wilderness has become a premier economic landmark. In what was once a biome of marsh and bush, a remarkable pavilion now stands: the Tuna Capital of the World. But before the grandeur completely engulfs us, let us revisit our beginnings. Heading on does not mean forgetting the past. Before this stateliness were toils and tales of sweat and glory, of long ago stories that make the fibers of the city’s soul. That soul, that very element comprise the reason why we should come home and celebrate. The pioneers came. They saw the promise. They conquered the odds. We celebrate now by paying homage. Some years back, I wrote and directed a video-documentary of a couple’s life story as gift for their golden wedding anniversary from their children. I interviewed a close friend of the couple’s, also a pioneer, who recounted stories of their early settlement years here. I was brought back in time. The story was about their hopes, sacrifices, and dreams, altogether riveting. Coming home is beyond space and time. To me, everyday is a coming home experience. I traverse the city streets and look at the mundane and grand things around that evoke meaning. Every time I pass by Pioneers Park along P. Acharon Boulevard, where S/S Basilan used to berth, I can’t help but feel wistful, imagining the faces of the pioneers disem-

The real beauty of celebrating the city’s foundation is to relive the glorious past, pay respect to its meaning, and savor the beautiful saga. Kalilangan is about coming home. barking the boat as dense Dadiangas shrubbery greeted them ashore. What the cityscape now occupies was once turf of this thorny shrub. A friend told me the shrub still grows in abundance in the countryside, somewhere in Barangay Katangawan. Plying through the winding NLSA road in Lagao I’d wonder why it was designed as such. My long-time friend Leonardo Bing Salazar Cariño, a fervent art crusader and a pioneer’s progeny, said that according to his grandpa, Leonardo Salazar, who blueprinted the city’s physical make, the zigzag was so, as motorists and farmers would get bored and drowsy going to their farms in a long, straight road. His grandpa also conceptualized the chalice-shaped Pioneer-Roxas-Pendatun avenues situating the government center between Roxas and Pendatun to indicate the content of the goblet with Pioneer Avenue as the handle to symbolize pioneers handling the settlements. Completing the symbol, the churches were placed at the fringes. His imaginative Lolo also intended proximity among the 4 elementary schools -– East, West, South, North -– for convenience. Lolo Leonardo, truly a rich reservoir of wonderful stories and significant anecdotes of a once bushy and dusty town. Growing up in the 70s, I still remember how dusty this place was. I don’t wish to go back to the dusty times, but I’ll always relive the dusted stories I hold dear in my heart. This month we are celebrating the city’s founding once again. There’s so much to celebrate, but revelry without veneration is meaningless. I adapt here an excerpt of Prof. Bai Janena J.A. Tito’s essay (Name the Festival Contest winning entry during the golden foundation anniversary in 1989), which expresses the essence of a foundation festival.

alilangan is derived from the word kalilang, which means celebration in Maguindanaon. Mre broadly, kalilang projects a positive and dynamic meaning for it engulfs the artistic, humane,

and altruistic aspects of social interaction that takes place in any occasion. Kalilangan means festival, festivity or jubilee -- a social gathering marked by exchanging amenities among traditional leaders, elders, allies, and subordinates. It is also a pageantry of unique and colorful ethnic rituals, and traditions like marriage and religious ceremonies, anniversaries, funerals, and enthronement of royal dignitaries, thanksgiving, and other forms of social, political, and economic affairs. It is not just an economic activity, but a continuous season of gaiety and merrymaking -- sharing of gifts, competing at traditional sports, dancing, singing, playing musical instruments... Kalilangan is a noble tradition. It is a complete work of art nourished and nurtured by a rich cultural heritage that has withstood the test of time across generations. General Santos is a part of that tradition. Let us enshrine the Kalilangan sa Heneral Santos in the golden pages of its history.

he real beauty of celebrating the city’s foundation is to relive the glorious past, pay respect to its meaning, and savor the beautiful saga. Kalilangan is about coming home. I wouldn’t know if I’d leave again. But even if I would, I’d surely come home to see …the raindrops that fall have a meaning, sprinkling the sea…

Travel Tales & Trivia

beach bums

hat better way to start this year’s travel strip than with my favorite beaches across two continents: Germany’s Km 689 Cologne Beach Club, and Boracay Island’s White Beach. Although Km 689 is not a real beach (originally, that is) despite its riverside location (a river beach? you ask!), we feature it here just the same for its worldclass oomph and originality. Let’s play beach bum now, shall we? Km 689 perches on the banks of the River Rhine at its 689-kilometer point (aah, you say!). Directly across is Cologne’s old town, depicted as if in a postcard by the Cologne Cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge. Inside this beach enclave at the Rheinterrassen in the Tanzbrunnen complex, up to 2,500 guests can enjoy the sun (weather permitting) and over 1,000 tons of white sand on a 3.5-square-kilometer area in lounge chairs, Iberian-inspired designer furniture and hammocks, and large sunshades. You can drop by with just the clothes on your back as beach wear, showers and towel rentals are available. Even if the sun is not your thing, drinks, tapas, salads and finger food can be had at the bar. There’s also a dock for guests who prefer to get there by jet ski from the Rhine. My impromptu beach visit with (from left, top photo) Boris and Matthias, and a few other friends, came soon after arriving from Berlin a few hours to the east. Within minutes we were happily downing Desperados (French beer, not Spanish or Mexican) in comfortable sun chairs, stripped down to our jeans in the warm enough August sun, Bob Marley playing aptly in the background. Who says you can’t enjoy beach life in Germany around the beginning of autumn? Fun is a state of mind.

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Arts Attack | Culture Shock ...6

by Bing Cariño

History Right Under Our Feet W

e find history everywhere. The food that we eat now, for instance, will tell the future that (after all the tuna in our oceans are gone), General Santos was the Tuna Capital of the Philippines. The backbone of our economy is the tuna industry. Important is that creature in our kinilaw that the European Union bothers to travel to this corner of the world to ensure that the fish that they’ve canned in their grocery stores are fit for consumption. Each September we troop the streets to celebrate the fish that has become who and what we are. The imprints of history are written everywhere. Every Tourism Week celebration during the time of Coralyn Espinosa as head of the of the Office of the City Economic Management Cooperative Development (CEMCDO) in the bring me an antique competition, mundane objects as costumes (that tell the story of the Palacios family), a collection of framed faded pictures (that documents the family history of former Mayor Santiago), or a primitive sawing machine (that tells of a vintage NLSA era lifestyle) articulates an era that shaped how we became 72 years hence. Perhaps unbeknown to us there is history right under our feet. Designed after the

war, the urban plan of the city departs from the traditional Spanish-period town plan that centers the church. The convenience of having to lay the roads and plots of land for a future metropolis straight from a open field allowed for more efficient Neighborhood Districts that cities in the United States and Europe used when both centers of urban planning and design were rebuilding their cities following the aftermath of the great war. The designer, Engr Leonardo J. Salazar, used the Neighborhood Unit design scheme, where everything is walking distance from homes. The town center is divided into four districts (now Barangays East, West, North

and South). If you live within these districts, schools are accessible by foot. Bisecting North-West and South-East districts is the commercial stretch, an avenue called Pioneer (named in honor of and dotted with commercial plots owned by the pioneers) that begins at the government center cluster framed by churches of all denominations. Before the era of ecumenical sensitivities, Gensan beat all Philippine cities in living the city for all concept. There are icons imprinted in the town plan. Salazar, devout and religious, made prominent in the plan the likeness of a chalice. Pioneer avenue is the stem and the city center that houses the seat of governance, an area for higher education (now occupied by Notre Dame of Dadiangas University) and a trade school (where Mindanao State University College of Law now sits) is the cupola of the chalice -- a metaphor for the pioneers’ role as the town’s foundation, holding together governance and education for the future of generations to come. Gensan has been criticized in the 50s as a dreamer’s waste of real estate. They

quipped, “Why would a small dusty town need so much space for roads?” (Gensan roads can easily expand to six lanes with wide easements and open spaces for parks and gardens) Credit Salazar’s foresight -- the town plan is the blueprint for Gensan’s future. While the rest of the Philippines’ metropolises are choked in traffic with narrow roads, we have a long way to go before that nightmare.

We do not simply become part of history when we are just a physical presence in these events. We need to be a defining factor of what comes next.

The town plan was designed not for the 1940s Detail of mural courtesy of the Bulaong Estate but for this era and the next. Salazar named the streets after flowers, trees and fruits so that these roads shall be named after a local worthy of the honor. Schools are generically named (East, South, West and North) so that they will be named after mayors. We now have Irineo Santiago and Pedro Acharon Sr elementary schools (former Mayors Velayo and Royeca should have a school named after them). Page 9

Travel Tales & Trivia

nter Boracay Island, Aklan in central Philippines postsummer, pre-Christmas with the family. A perfect time to visit, if only to avoid the summer stampede (and with it higher hotel rates and less personal space on the beach), the mid-year monsoons, and the yearend holiday hustle. (Between you and me, any time of year will do just fine. Either you have the holiday spirit or you don’t, and wherever you decide to go at whatever time of year is of no real consequence.) What’s not to love in Boracay? Naysayers and detractors lambaste the island’s tourism and commercial overdrive, but truth be told, everything in Boracay is worth savoring at least once in your life, though we won’t blame you if you keep coming back for more. White Beach, the food, the bars and cafés, the club scene, the surf and sunset, the locals and fellow tourists, the 5-star haunts and mall-side joints, corals, trinkets, parasailing, paraw sailboats, islandhopping and shopping -- countless more beckon you to come and/or stay. Before we knew it the extended weekend was over, and the family had to shake off the bumming daze as we counted down to the flight and long drive home (not necessarily in that order). The memory suffices for now. Til the next beach holiday! (ANPJ)

Robinsons Place Gensan, National Highway Lagao, General Santos | Phone (083) 5542134

Home Front

...8

osting a party (preferrably one that people will remember favorably for a long time) is not an easy feat. Many would find it nerve-wracking; others would rather not have anything to do with it. I have dream parties I can only play in my head, so when I say it doesn’t have to be difficult, my words are plain moot. But I’ve been to many successful parties, and the time-tested trick has always been to plan and prepare ahead, keep it simple, and where your expertise is lacking, delegate. Here are just some points to place foremost on your list:

Who should you invite and how many? If it’s your first party, why not experiment with friends you know well enough to forgive you if things do go wrong. Stress is not something you want here, and good friends take it in stride, even laugh with you when mistakes happen. Be considerate to invite

Hosting a Party People Won’t Forget only guests who will interact well with one another. A guest who dominates the conversation or a whole bunch of shy types may not make good company. Pick a group that mixes well. If it’s dinner home, you’re better off with 6-8 people, definitely not over a dozen. This way you and your guests can enjoy all the exchanges around the table. If it’s a big one, say a cotillion or reunion ball, hire party planners and caterers to do the dirty work for you.

Setting the Venue

Make sure that the place is big enough for the party. For a private dinner, see to it that the table can accommodate everyone without packing guests like sardines. With big gatherings, brainstorm with party planners on how to best hold the hosting, entertaining, dining, drinking, and dancing parts. Avoid buffet tables if you

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can help it, but if you want food served at the table en masse, make sure there’s a Lazy Susan so everyone at the table can easily get to all the dishes. Better yet, have the dishes served to each guest per course. This lends an air of elegance (depending on the menu and presentation), and makes your guests feel extra special.

Picking the Menu

Parties where you only dress up a big place, set up a bar (with guests bringing, say, their own six-packs or bottles of wine or liquor), maybe hire a sound system provider and a good DJ, are easier than dinner parties. Choosing the menu is crucial, as different people crave different foods. Even with a list of fine dishes and your own best intentions, something can go wrong with the cooking and the presentation, too. It’s best to hire good caterers, with whom you can

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Choosing a Theme

Here’ where your creativity is going to be tested. Have your guest dress up and walk the red carpet to the party hall (trendy), fill the gymnasium floor with white sand for your beach party in the city (too much), set up a 12-person jaccuzzi in the middle of the dancefloor (a tad tacky), foam the venue (a tired trick), or hire models to grace the crowd (tsk-tsk). Whatever your theme is, brainstorm with planners for the best way to go considering your budget and venue. Don’t forget to hire the best photographers! (ANPJ)

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brainstorm on recipes based on what you like and think the others would like. You don’t need to cook your own dinner when you host one home either. You can always hire a chef to cook for your intimate party. This way you don’t rush and are free to socialize.

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E Page 6 | After a few

decades the dusty roads have been cemented. Along with it infrastructure of urban development and commerce sprouted in every thoroughfare. The children who were the future human resource of the city walked to school to learn and earn competencies. Then one day, we woke up with the city hailed as the most competitive in the Philippines. The normal course of development of the city has been paved by the streets serving a dual function as urban space easement and route. February 27 is General Santos City’s foundation day. It’s that season of

looking back to the past. It’s also the new season of heated discussions on who came first, who did what, and when. Everyone wanted to be part of history for several reasons, sometimes grand, at times illusionary. Mine is simply for the perpetuation of memory and remembrance. We do not simply become part of history when we are just a physical presence in these events. We need to be a defining factor of what comes next. fter all, history in its simplest form is just a story of how events unfolded and how this influences the unfolding of the future.

hen people are free to do as they please, they usually imitate each other. (Eric Hoffer)

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Green Living ...10

Going Green and LocaL in the Kitchen

etting organized in the kitchen involves more than just ensuring we can find what we need in our cupboards and drawers. We also need to consider the environment, and the extra steps we can take in the kitchen to improve how we live and how we affect our environment. Those steps may include basic recycling of plastics, papers, metal and such. But how else can you help our environ-

ment? Better yet, is there a way to help our environment and become that much healthier? The good news is that, yes, there is! If you drink bottled water, consider stopping. Install a good filter system on your faucet and use tap water. Bottled water leaves a large footprint on our environment as it consumes valuable resources such as water and oil to create the plastic bottles, and then fuel

by Narelle Todd

to transport the bottles to shops. Also, bottled water takes away much of what the body really needs in terms of iron, magnesium and other minerals. Drinking filtered water is cheaper and healthier for you and the environment. Very little plastics are being used in comparison with cases of empty water bottles that pollute our environment, and fuel isn’t being used as much to transport. How about those pesticides sprayed on your foods that aren’t good for you, and interfere with the true taste of foods? Buy organic food or grow your own. Buying local helps that much more. Once again, less fuel for transport is being used and you are also helping your community/city financially as well. If you have the time and space, having your own garden is a great way of helping keep your kitchen green.

...make a list of things that you can change to start cooking and turning your kitchen green.

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Your appliances can also be a major contributing factor to a greener kitchen. Buying energy saving appliances will cut down on the usage of electricity. Going green in our kitchens also includes cooking green. Plan meals ahead of time so you aren’t scrambling to pick up something convenient, which is likely to be less healthy and wrapped in more energy-hogging packaging. Consider making your own soups instead of buying canned soup. Buy organic coffee beans and grind them at home. Grow your own herbs such as basil, thyme, and parsley. Home-grown herbs are cheaper, tastier, and fresher, and you can also green up your balcony or windowsill! Go to your kitchen, go through your cupboards, and make a list of things that you can change to start cooking and turning your kitchen green. This will help you and your family and the environment both in the short and long term. About the Author Australia and New Zealand’s first expert professional organizer, Narelle Todd, invites you to bring peace and order to your life with Successful Living’s tools to get organized and clutter-free. SL creates easy-to-implement personal organization and time management solutions to clear your home, business and mind. Visit successfulliving.com.au to learn about her Home and Life by Design program.

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Is a Frugal Lifestyle also Green? by Kerry Hook

ong before the green, eco-friendly, earth movement came along the frugal had been quietly doing things that have recently been popularized by the green movement. So, what exactly is frugal? What were these activities? The definition of frugal is avoiding waste and being economical, and although that may not sound particularly green, it is in practice. How does a person become frugal? The frugal do many of the same day-to-day things that a green person might. Remember the old slogan, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle? Add one more R and you’ve pretty well summarized how to live frugally. The fourth R is Repair, but let’s review each R to see how it applies to the frugal. Reduce -- The frugal reduce by downsizing their homes, reducing clutter (yard sale, tax deductible donation, or selling on eBay or CraigsList). They reduce their monthly expenses by buying only what they need and often at a reduced price from yard sales, discount stores or second hand shops. Adopting this R is the foundation of frugality. Reuse -- Reusing will also save you money. There are many simple things that you can do to reuse things and hence extend their life and value. For example, re-use your teabags, save those plastic containers that cottage cheese or margarine comes in, and re-use them as storage for leftover food or small objects like buttons or nails. Think creatively. Are there objects that you can reuse or re-purpose lying around your house?

... Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle? Add one more R and you’ve pretty well summarized how to live frugally. Recycle -- Some places will pay for the return of glass bottles and aluminum cans, so there is a direct cash incentive to recycle. But there are other ways to save money by recycling. Composting is a great way to recycle your food scraps into fertile new soil if you enjoy gardening. If you are creative and have a hot glue gun, there are many objects that can live again as art. Folk art often makes use of old objects. For example, colorful bottles can be added to trees or old shoes become planters, broken

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glass can be used for mosaics. Crafters make use of old scraps of paper and fabric to make handmade, beautiful paper. But frugal recycling isn’t limited to crafters. Cooks can recycle water by re-using the water from boiled potatoes for soup the next day (keep refrigerated, of course). Turn worn out blue jeans into cut-offs, a skirt or a handbag. The bottom line is that there are many ways to recycle the object that you use, all you have to do is think a bit. Repair -- Instead of tossing something and buying a new one, is there a way to repair it? For example, shoes are a common thing that we toss aside when we think they’re worn out, but have you thought about repairing them instead? A good shoe repair store can be found in most any city and they can repair stitching and replace heel lifts very easily. Can the lamp that’s not working be rewired? Can you patch a hole, mend a sock or shave those little fabric balls off your old sweater to breathe new life into it? It’s very easy to start to live frugally; you just have to start to look at things differently. By following these four Rs you can not only save money but be considered green as well. About the Author Kerry Hook has retired after working for two decades in research. She has put those skills to work and developed a great website for those who are retiring or retooling their lives: thefrugalretiree.com. If you are interested in seeing all the great bargains she’s found, visit thefrugalretiree.com/ hotdeals.html.

Local Gem ...12

Gensan | Welcomes the Holy Child W

Text by Donna Mae Congson & Romarie Ivy Cunanan | Photos by Brian Dan Congson

e Filipinos have always been fascinated by the image of the young Jesus, and our devotion to the Little Christ is expressed grandiosely over the years with festivities like Sinulog and Ati-Atihan. Here in Gensan the more known feast is Barangay Bula’s celebration, every January 15, of its patron, Señor Santo Niño, also known as the Holy Child. Everyone is always looking forward to this festivity, one that carries a deeper meaning for its devotees and followers because of its religious roots. In the 1950s, the Jimenez family brought the Santo Niño image to Bula’s shores, and eventually donated it to the church. It was said that the house where the Santo Niño resided accidentally burned to the ground, the fire only causing the image its current black color. The festivity starts on the night of January 14th at the end of the last day of the novena (devotional prayer series). A procession follows the Mass, taking the image of Santo Niño to the streets of Bula. The karo, a boat-shaped carriage, where the image is placed every year, is decorated by its owner, Lydia Congson,

as an expression of her love and devotion to the Little Christ. Selected patrons push the karo as they walk for 2-3 hours while praying the rosary throughout the procession. Parishioners await outside their houses to catch a glimpse of the image as they present their own Santo Niño image. Some start the fireworks once the image has passed. Earlier during the fluvial parade, a small outrigger boat plied the waters, taking the Santo Niño from the shore near Congson ice plant to Silway, where people waited by the arch to pay respects and offer kisses to the Santo Niño. From there the Santo Niño returned to where it took off, and carried on dry ground to Bula Church. In 1956 the Congson Family, together with the Damalerio Family, initiated a bigger fluvial parade using their sizable shipping boat. In the 80s Dominico Congson bought an amphibian vehicle in Bataan, which was previously used during World War II to transport military supplies from land to sea. Now the sole purpose of the amphibian is to serve and pay tribute to the Santo Niño. It conveniently transfers the Santo Niño image

from the church to the big shipping boat and vice versa. The amphibian is used only once every year, during the festivities in Bula; the rest of the year it rests at Southern Fishing Industry in Tambler. This year the fluvial parade started with a 5-am Mass at the Santo Niño Parish. Afterwards, the image of the Santo Niño was transferred from the church on board the amphibian, where we were, to the shore by Rajah Muda in Bula for our descent to the sea. It was a thrilling and unique experience to be in the amphibian as it made the transition from land to sea. The euphoria only grew more instense as we shared in the crowd’s excitement as they danced and sang to the beat of Viva Pit Señor, a trademark Sinulog chant. The whole atmosphere made us feel upbeat and united with the celebration. Marfenio Tan, chairperson of the event, was present during the entire fluvial parade. We were amazed by his stance and devotion to Santo Niño. When we sailed the cerulean sea after the Santo Niño safely switched from amphibian to mother ship, the striking sunrays and beautiful scenery across

Sarangani Bay mesmerized us. The damp air made us feel relaxed. At the same time we enjoyed the tour on board the M/V Golden Sea. We also ran into Vice Mayor Shirlyn Bañas and City Councilors Ronell Rivera and Dominador Lagare. There were approximately over a hundred ships that joined the fluvial parade led by Golden Sea owned by Damalerio Fishing Industry. The ships were decorated with colorful buntings, balloons and flowers. Every year a different shipping boat is assigned by way of a raffle. It is also a tradition that food is served on the boat. In honor of the image the boat owners pray the rosary and with an upbeat song, offer a dance to the Santo Niño. It is said that joining the fluvial parade brings luck and bountiful blessings for seafarers. In addition, it guides them in their travels through unpredictable weather in the open sea. People find it important to get a flower, believing it will protect and guide them especially when they are at sea. Barangay Bula is known as the home of seafarers as well as the fishing magnates of Gensan. It is believed that parading the image of Santo Niño at sea will bring out the bountiful blessings from the ocean. The fluvial parade ended at the Queen Tuna Park, where crowds of devotees awaited the Santo Niño’s arrival. Upon transferring the image from the Golden Sea to the amphibian, the boats rang their horns in unison to bid goodbye, and fireworks with little parachutes bearing the words VIVA PIT SEÑOR burst out. Ascending from the sea, we were astounded by the urge of the waiting crowd to mob the amphibian and fight to grab a hold of the flowers. Streetdancing contestants brought in live beats and dances as we paraded from the park to the church. At the church countless more devotees waited for the image to arrive, and another Mass celebration was held.

This time the offertory was a vibrant Sinulog dance, where participants did not just walk the aisle bearing gifts, but also danced in celebration and jubilant thanksgiving.

e felt blessed and lucky at the same time to experience this festivity. Only a few chosen people are given the chance to ride the amphibian and get that close to the Santo Niño. Despite the scorching sun and humidity, we were able to give a hand to patrons who were throwing their handkerchiefs and towels to wipe the Santo Niño. Let’s also not forget the scrumptious food prepared by the residents of Bula. Big or small households welcomed and shared their food to visitors, saying, Mamiyesta mo sa amoa ha. (Join in our feast, will you?) If there’s food then there’s always a drink to match. Loud karaoke machines were everywhere; you will be stunned by the singers’ golden voices. You’d definitely feel, see and experience the festive atmosphere all around the barangay. After visiting friends, it’s a must to return to the church to light a candle and pay homage to the little Christ. Or join the dancing at the gym to the beat of Sinulog / Syagit og kusog / Pit Señor / Pit Señor / Tanan magsaulog (Sinulog / Shout out loud / Pit Señor / Pit Señor / Everybody celebrate), while making a wish at the back of your mind. It is said that once you ask the Little Christ a favor or a wish it would likely come true once you dance for him to entertain him. Devotion to the Santo Niño is very easy because every child has a place in everyone’s hearts.

uccess well deserved, fellow Parishioners! Congratulations to everyone in Bula who celebrated and took part in the festivities. Viva Pit Señor!

Health Bits ...14

Peppermint Tea Healing Benefits

f you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a condition that doctors usually find hard to treat, why not start with a remedy that is natural and usually effective, not to mention a whole lot less expensive than prescription medication? Brew yourself a cup of peppermint tea to enjoy the best of peppermint. Peppermint tea is an age-old remedy for many kinds of stomach upset. In Europe, where some insurance plans pay for herbal teas as well as for conventional medications, peppermint tea has been put to clinical testing. There is a substantial body of scientific research that finds it is good for mild abdominal pain, flatulence, and diarrhea. It’s better to know what you are treating, of course, since abdominal pain is a symptom of many different conditions, some of them requiring urgent medical attention. But if you have been diagnosed IBS, even your doctor may recommend peppermint tea. Like most other herbs, peppermint is helpful in moderation and harmful in excess. The tannins in the tea interfere with absorption of iron from

Top 10 Natural Detox Methods by Sarah Labdar

etoxification is the elimination of toxic substances from the body. Alternative medicines such as Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine have used herbs, diet, exercise and supplements for detoxification for over 3,000 years. Although, there are several detox programs, diets and products available on the market today, there are natural ways to detox the body. Herbs, certain foods, and lifestyle can help to naturally detoxify the body on a daily

food, which is a good thing if you have hemochromatosis (iron overload disease) and a bad thing if you suffer iron-deficiency anemia. Men who drink very large amounts of peppermint tea (a gallon a day or so) can experience lowered testosterone levels. Women who use peppermint tea as a douche can suffer contact dermatitis. You could rinse a minor skin wound with warm (not hot) peppermint tea as an added measure of protection against various kinds of skin infections, including MRSA (methicillin-resistant

Staphylococcus aureus bacterial infection), but the essential oils in peppermint tea are too much inside the body -- don’t put it in your neti pot (for nasal irrigation). Peppermint tea is meant to be drunk, and about 5 cups (1.2 liters) a day is all your digestive tract needs. Peppermint herbal tea benefits are also found in lemon balm (melissa), chamomile, and star anise teas. Since all of these herbs work through their essential oils, you don’t want to boil the herb in the process of making your tea. Brewing peppermint tea with boiling water boils the essential oils away. Put almost-boiling water in a covered teapot or teacup, and allow to brew for 3-5 minutes. Drink warm, not hot. Another way to get the benefits of peppermint for intestinal problems is to take enteric-coated capsules of peppermint oil. These capsules only dissolve when they reach the small intestine, saving their volatile oils for maximum effect against IBS or duodenal ulcers. When it’s not practical to make tea, consider capsules as a good way to get relief of IBS or ulcers.

by Mary Dezfoli

Mary invites you to visit bewellbuzz.com.

basis. Natural detoxification enhances the bodies own elimination systems to revitalize health, energy, and vigor. So the next time you are feeling bloated, constipated, or fatigued make some of these simple lifestyle and dietary changes to naturally detoxify your body.

such as oats and brown rice, you can keep your digestion and elimination regular. Fresh fruits and vegetables are cleansing, and provide the body with essential nutrients. Beet, radish, artichoke, cabbage, broccoli, and seaweed are all high fiber foods.

1. Eat a high fiber diet. Most people don’t get enough fiber in their diet, which can cause lowered energy levels, decreased metabolism and slow elimination. By eating fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains

2. Cleanse and protect the liver. Green tea, and hot water with lemon squeezed into it can help to stimulate liver cleansing. Herbs such as dandelion root, burdock, and milk thistle are also safe and effective. 3. Drink water. Water naturally flushes the body of chemicals, toxins, and impurities through urination, expiration, and sweating. The body is made up of 70% water and

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needs to be replenished daily. Dehydration can compromise the body’s ability to filter toxins. Drinking an extra quart of water per day will help to eliminate toxins. 4. Add vitamin C to your diet. Vitamin C is found in many fresh fruits and vegetables, and is great at boosting the immune system and staving off colds and the flu. It is also an antioxidant, which reduces free radical toxicity in the body. It also helps to produce glutathione, which is necessary to cleanse toxins from the liver.

5. Eliminate stress. Stress causes the body to release hormones that if left within the body can use up vital nutrients. This leaves the body depleted of essential nutrients, and unable to protect the body against toxins, diseases and infections. Over time stress can cause physiological changes, which leave the body exposed to the risk of disease. Therefore by eliminating stress or transforming stress into positive emotions or a positive outcome you can naturally flush out your system of toxic hormones and chemicals.

6. Deep breathing. This is one way to relax or relief stress. Breathing deeply can circulate oxygen throughout the body, which encourages detoxification through the body’s elimination systems i.e. Skin, expiration, lymph, blood, kidneys, liver, etc. 7. Contrast showers. Hydrotherapy is not only relaxing but also stimulates blood circulation throughout the body. Start with hot water for about 5 minutes. Allow the water to run over your entire body. Switch to cold water for 30 seconds. Switch between hot and cold water several times. This encourages detoxification. 8. A sauna is a great way to sweat out toxins. Chemicals, toxins, and impurities can be eliminated through the skin. A sauna uses moist heat to increase the body’s temperature to induce intense sweating. 9. Exfoliate the skin. Whether you dry brush your skin or use a texturized glove in the shower, the friction created when you rub the skin with a glove or brush can cause the pores to expel toxins. Detoxifying pads/ foot pads/patches can also be used to pull impurities out of the body through the pores onto the pads. To dry brush, specialized brushes can be used on the skin when it’s dry. Or whilst in a hot shower use a texturized glove scrubber to scrub the skin firmly. In either case you can see dead skin cells, dirt, and impurities as you brush the skin. 10. Exercise.

The best way to naturally detoxify the body: yoga, martial arts, and tai chi are all cleansing exercises. They focus on breathing, which increases circulation and they also increase core temperature, which increases sweating. Elimination of toxins through sweat, urination and expiration increases during exercise.

About the Author Sarah Labdar graduated with a BA in exercise science, and has worked in the medical field since. Her focus is alternative medicine, and how it interacts and works in conjunction with traditional medicine. Sarah invites you to visit universalhealthinfo.com.

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Are you from elsewhere in the country or the world and relocating to the SoCCSKSarGen region for work or temporary residence? We can help expatriates and long-term visitors settle in to their new living and working environment. We can do visa renewals, provide local tours, even help your children get into a good school in your locality, if need be. We also provide on-demand secretarial services and employee recruitment on your behalf, and help you set up your business from the ground up. FEEL AT HOME SOONER. SEE OR CALL US NOW. 20 Champaca Street, General Santos City 9500 Phone: +63-931-9411941 | +63-931-9613473

200 Cities across 33 Nations Now Read the Gensan Gazer eZine

s of February 10, 2011, the Gensan Gazer eZine has registered a total of 200 reader cities across 33 countries and territories worldwide, according to statistics recorded on Google Analytics on the given date. Of the online reader cities, Davao City remains at the top of the list, ranking number 1 among the 8 Philippine cities that made it in the top 20. Also in the top 20 are cities from Russia, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and United States, and the islandstate of Singapore. The

full list of the top 20 cities following the Gensan Gazer eZines are as follows: 1. Davao, Philippines 2. Manila, Philippines 3. Cebu, Philippines 4. Mandaluyong, Philippines 5. Singapore 6. New York, United States 7. Brooklyn, United States 8. Jeddah, Saudi Arabia 9. Cotabato, Philippines 10. Makati, Philippines 11. London, United Kingdom 12. Houston, United States 13. Liverpool, United Kingdom 14. Los Angeles, United States 15. Tacloban, Philippines

16. Cebu, Philippines 17. Clawson, United States 18. Madison, United States 19. Moscow, Russia 20. Dubai, United Arab Emirates Gensan does not figure in the top 20 as readers here probably read the printed magazine. The eZines can be viewed at gensangazer.com.

GENSAN GAZER We’re not just about Gensan, and we’re read not only in Gensan. This town is our home. The world is our playground.

Gensan Ground. Global ® Groove.

Gadgets/ Tools ...18

Blackberry Torch: Impressive Choice for Surfing the Web on the Move by Chris Westley

he Blackberry Torch 9800 is perhaps one of the most appealing recent handsets from the manufacturer. Featuring a touch screen and also a slide out QWERTY keyboard, it offers the very best of both. Business users consider it the perfect smartphone, as it features several productivity tools for jobs to be completed on the move. Some of these tools include an MS Office files compatible document viewer, voice memo recorder and organiser. The incorporated QWERTY keyboard is of great help for people sending a high number of emails and messages. The optical trackpad is also there to navigate the Blackberry OS 6.0. The 3.2 inches TFT capacitive touch screen is perfect to view images, videos or various documents, due to the pixel resolution of 360 x 480 and which can display up to 16 million impressive colours. The screen provides a dynamic and attractive method navigating the user interface, ideal for such activities as browsing the web. Measuring 111 x 62 x 14.6, the handset is not the smallest, but opinions regarding this issue have changed a lot in the last years. Users are no longer obsessed with size, but are more interested in features and software, aspects in which the Blackberry Torch 9800 is certainly not a disappointment. Along with the productivity tools already mentioned, it includes several entertainment features as well, such as a resourceful internal media player compatible with most music and video file formats or several built-in games and access to a collection of downloadable games.

An internal storage capacity of 4 GB is provided for users to store music tracks or documents. The built-in Micro SD card slot offers an incorporated 4 GB memory card, which can be replaced with a memory card of up to 32 GB. Thus, the handset can potentially store a huge amount of data or all kind of files. Internet access is provided through an HSDPA connection where 3G is available or through Wi-Fi for high speed internet access where there are available wireless networks. GPRS and EDGE are both in class 10 versions to connect the phone to cellular networks. The Blackberry Torch also features a handy 5 mega pixel camera with a pixel resolution of 2592 x 1944, which results in still images of excellent quality. It boasts such features as standard as LED flash, image stabilization and autofocus. It can also shoot VGA quality video footage at 24 frames per second.

s is easily deduced from the long list of features, the Blackberry Torch 9800 is a highly versatile handset. It is definitely appealing for most business users and students, but also for existing Blackberry enthusiasts. About the Author -- Chris Westley invites you to check out the best Blackberry Torch 9800 deals at phoneslimited.co.uk/ blackberry/9800+Torch.html and Blackberry 9780 Bold deals at phoneslimited.co.uk/ blackberry/9780+Bold.html. Visit phoneslimited.co.uk soon!

Seen. Heard. Read. turns to perform for fans at the free show, proving just why they have come to this stage in the competition sub-headlined as the Search for the Next Female Pop Superstar. (GenSantos.com)

THE 5 FINALISTS in ABS-CBN’s SHARON talent search, Star Power -- future stars Angeline, Akiko, K-La, Krissel, and Monica -- were in Gensan for a mall show at the KCC Events and Convention Center on February 11. The five finalists took

FREQUENT GUEST CROONER Richard Poon performed at the

KCC Events and Convention Center on January 26 during a free mall show for fans of the Big Band Crooner. This is Gensan’s third date with Richard, who dubbed his latest show, I’ll Be Seeing You. (GenSantos.com)

MASS UNREST beginning January 25 had protesters calling for Hosni Mubarak’s resignation; on February 11, he stepped down as President of Egypt after over two weeks of protests that challenged his 35-year reign. On the same month in 1986 the People Power Revolution resulted in the ouster of Ferdinand Marcos from power and his subsequent exile in Hawaii

after ruling for twenty years. February should be called Enough-Is-Enough Month.

PERHAPS A WELCOME RESPITE from the Charice Chaos and Pacquiao Pandemonium, the Philippine National Football Team (overseen by the Philippine Football Federation, and nicknamed Philippine Booters and more popularly, Azkals, after the local term for stray dogs) made waves last year when it defeated defending champion Vietnam in the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup, staging one of the biggest upsets in the history

Movie Buff ...19

Most Inspirational Movies and the Lessons I’ve Learned from Them by Michael Lee

hen I think about the most inspirational movies I have seen, I realize that they cut across genres and styles. Some of them are heavy with drama, while others are more fast-paced and action-filled. However, one thing that they have in common is their ability to evoke strong emotion in me. If you’re looking for some of the most inspirational movies ever created, check this out:

Movie № : I Am Sam

I Am Sam is a story of a mentally-challenged father who fights for the custody of his 7-year-old daughter. Many remember this movie because of the gripping portrayal of Sean Penn, Dakota Fanning and Michelle Pfeiffer. Here Pfeiffer’s character (a cold-hearted lawyer) is taught a valuable lesson about family and love. One very intense scene shows everyone in the courtroom affected by Sam’s honesty; even the other lawyer sympathizes with him. We often take these for granted. We rebel against our parents and sometimes get into fights with our brothers and sisters. In the movie, we are reminded of how love -- familial love -- can be enough.

Movie № : Gladiator

If heavy drama is not your thing, perhaps you’d appreciate more Russel Crowe’s portrayal of a Roman general named Maximus, who lost everything he ever held dear -- his of the tournament. Despite being Asia’s oldest national team, Azkals has never had any significant success on the international stage; it never qualified for the AFC Asian Cup or the FIFA World Cup. Maybe that’ll change soon? On February 9 Azkals beat Mongolia 2-0 in the first leg of the home-and-away pre-qualifying phase playoffs of the 2012 AFC Challenge Cup. If Azkals beat Mongolia again in the second leg on March 15, it will move from the lowest ranks to the 16-team group stage, which includes defending champion North Korea. From this qualifying group stage to be played March 20–31, only 8 teams will make it to the finals. The 2012 AFC Challenge Cup is a qualifier for the 2015 AFC Asian Cup. (Game details from Wikipedia.com)

In the meantime, expect Phil Younghusband (in photo with mates, from left, Ray

wife and his son. He had been favored to succeed the emperort -- a fact the emperor’s son Commodus could not accept. Jealous of Maximus, Commodus tried to destroy the general. Maximus was turned into a slave, but even slavery couldn’t stop him from following through with his revenge. (Revenge here is not the point, and should not be taken at face value. It’s the main character’s belief in himself and dogged determination that’s most noteworthy.) Gladiator is exactly the kind of movie you’d want to watch if you want to feel empowered. Aside from the wealth of strategy lessons you can pick up from the movie, it also teaches you that a man can overcome all odds if he is focused and fueled. Keep your eye on the prize.

Movie № : The Bucket List

In The Bucket List, Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman play two men who decide to make the most of their remaining days. Both cancer patients, they break out of the hospital to do all the things that they’ve always wanted to do but never did. They created a bucket list and went about fulfilling every item on it. While the movie teaches us not to take life for granted, it also shows us that it’s

important to let old wounds heal -- to make amends, to forgive, and ask for forgiveness. More than racing expensive cars and eating at five-star restaurants, we should focus our energies on these simple things. These are just some of the most inspirational movies I’ve seen in my lifetime. There are still a lot more to add to the list, but they will have to wait for another time. About the Author Michael Lee invites you to watch the most inspirational self-help videos for free at 20daypersuasion.com/self-help-videos. htm. Visit 20daypersuasion.com soon.

quotes from all over

love waking up in the morning not knowing where I’m gonna go or who I’m gonna meet. Just the other night, I was sleeping under a bridge, and now here I am, on the grandest ship in the world, having champagne with you fine people. -- Leonardo DiCaprio as Jack Dawson, Titanic, 1997

Jonsson, Rob Gier and Chris Greatwich, taken in Jakarta in December last year before they lost to Indonesia in the Suzuki Cup) to make waves, and phill the blogs and news between now and the next big buzz. WATCHING Manny Pacquiao as he defends his WBO Welterwight title against Shane Mosley on May 7? Stupid question!

T I

he nearest way to glory is to strive to be what you wish to be thought to be. -- Socrates, Philosopher

t takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that you’ll do things differently. -- Warren Buffett, Investment Guru

GENSAN GAZER

in Singapore!

Text and photos by Armando Nicolas P J

Nusha, manager at global engineering conglomera Germany

Rachel, brand/ product manager, Singapore

ensan Gazer took some time off to visit Singapore, the island where the idea for the magazine was born. Two weeks, close to a hundred walking miles, and over a thousand photographs later, we pick a few snippets from the long enough work/holiday in the Lion City, and offer a glimpse into Southeast Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most progressive economic hub and cultural melting pot. We witnessed firsthand the Pongal and Thaipusam Festivals, and the beginnings of the Chinese Lunar Year celebrations.

Wendy, publishing technology specialist, Singapore

Sentosa, peace and tranquility in Bahasa Melayu, is an island resort in Singapore. Attractions include a 2-kilometer-long beach, Fort Siloso, 2 golf courses, 2 five-star hotels, and the Resorts World Sentosa, which houses the Universal Studios Singapore theme park.

Marc, pharmaceutical executive, Austria

Some of our well-wishers...

g ate,

Alastair, physicist, England

Janice, banking specialist, Singapore

Shirene, tourism manager, Singapore

Hady, Singapore Idol 2006/ Asian Idol 2007

Nannette, technical writer (also a former GG contributor), Singapore

The Merlion, relocated from its original site at the mouth of Singapore River, now stands at Merlion Park overlooking Marina Bay.

Jenny, manager at global telecoms company, Malaysia

g gy

Across the bay is Marina Bay Sands, an integrated resort that features a 2,561-room hotel, a 120,000-m2 convention-exhibition center, mall, museum, theaters, celebrity chef restaurants, floating pavilions, and casino. It is topped by the 340-meter-long SkyPark, and a 150-meter infinity swimming pool atop the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest public cantilevered platform, which overhangs the north tower by nearly 70 meters.

R ive r crui se

Tem ple in the city

La mp boy

Lio n da nce rs

Air-cooled street Even jaded

Colorf ul saree s

M all showe r

Ponga l mark et stalls Red shopp ing

travelers admit there’s always something new and exciting to see in Singapore on every visit. A week or 2, say M osque an d shops in January, lets you witness a few cultural gems like the Pongal and Thaipusam festivals, and the beginnings of the Lunar New Year preparations. The enclaves of Little India and Chinatown are equally festive, festival season or not. All year round concerts, art shows and expos are spread out, timed almost on cue Fait hfu l devoted

Singapore Snapshots with the opening of this resort and that hotel and what-have-you’s, the bustling cityscape in constant transformation even as the buzz moves from design to event to district to personage. Such is the package of Singapore’s charm -- a mix of old and new and never-ending change, as if the island-state feels it’d fall under the moment it stopped in its tracks for even a second. Locals and visitors in turn feel the city’s heartbeat, and quite many happily walk to its rhythm. (ANPJ)

Singapore Art Museu m

Hi nd u tem ple offeri ng

River fan s

Radio Head ...23

ne of the things most people think of when they hear the words Internet radio is the amazing variety of music stations available. Whether it’s a station that plays 80s music favorites around the clock or one that broadcasts show tunes from past and present Broadway hits, a little searching can turn up a multitude of options. This can be a manna from heaven for those who have gotten tired of listening to nothing but top 40 and similarly mainstream genres of music. However, finding specialized music stations that appeal to your specific tastes

Hear It All by Sarah Michaels

is only scratching the surface of everything that online radio has to offer. While finding the perfect gospel music station might be enough to satisfy some listeners, there is much more out there to discover and enjoy. For those interested in history, the opportunity to enjoy the type of entertainment that was common in the early days of radio is an amazing opportunity indeed. There are a variety of shows out there, both vintage and new, for you to discover and enjoy. Although you might not be able to get your family to crowd around the computer the way that

Foals: Total Gem E

ver come across an album that sounds like something you’ve always wanted to hear but can’t quite describe: familiar yet something new, eerie yet exciting, meaningful but not melodramatic, just cool and catchy without being commercial or commonplace? Oxford quintet Foals (not the young horses, despite the kick) delivers all that and more in Total Life Forever, their second studio album that’s art, anthem and assertion in equal parts. This British indie rock band -- Yannis Philippakkis (vocals, guitar, live drums), Jack Bevan

households used to gather to listen to the exploits of their favorite characters every night, it is certainly something new for you to enjoy. Perhaps you’re not pleased with your local news coverage and would like to hear something from a different area or viewpoint. Online radio offers you a wider choice of news sources than you have in your local

(drums), Jimmy Smith (guitar), Edwin Congreave (keyboard, backing vocals), and Walter Gervers (bass, backing vocals) -- more than outdid their debut Antidotes, which in retrospect, wouldn’t have been able to counter the second album’s sweet venom. Touché! Total Life Forever is not going to get you drooling the first time around, and it’s not one to get the party started either (but why not?), but among the right people around the right living room (maybe not the thing in your neighborhood), the album could work like magic. It has tracks that seem, on first play, to be cold and inaccessible -- songs like 2 Trees, Black Gold, Blue Blood, and title track Total Life Forever -- which later morph into something magnetic, even entrancing. Mantra-like lyrics and Yannis’ otherworldly howls soar above the riffs and beats, leaving a sense of comfortable claustrophobia in a groove that moves you more inside than out. Duality is a beautiful pattern here, with every track seemingly taking off as one thing and touch-

area. Find coverage from all over the globe, focusing on subjects that are of most interest to you. Likewise, there are plenty of sports fans who know the pain of not having any local coverage for their team. If you relocated at some point and still support the sports team from your old hometown, you might find yourself frustrated by your inability to watch or listen to their games. Finding coverage online may just help you feel like you’re sitting in the stands once again. About the Author Sarah Michaels writes for OnlineRadioStations.com, offering free Internet radio stations including live radio and music stations. Sarah invites you to visit OnlineRadioStations.com.

ing back down as another. After Glow is no different: beats enshrouded by bass lilts, eerie sighs, and harmonies that can only be described as strangely ingenious. Throughout the album, masterful layering pervades in perfect doses. My album pick, however, is Spanish Sahara, which I don’t fully fathom or even scratch the surface, the same reason that makes it all the more intriguing and provocative. It goes, Forget the horror here / Forget the horror here / Leave it all down here / It’s future rust / It’s future dust. That’s haunting at its most beautiful. (ANPJ)

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Back to Basics ...25

How to Stick to Your New Year’s Resolutions Simply & Easily by Bob Crawford

ow are you doing on all those fantastic New Year’s resolutions? Are you still sticking with it? Or have you fallen back into the same old routine, the same old rut, the same old habits as last year? Read on and learn how you can stick to your resolutions this year and not feel like you are giving up on those big changes you want to make in your life.

You might have a brand new calendar on the wall, but everything else stays the same. Yes, people have already given up on the biggest dreams that they had for this year. That is because it is pretty easy to let your dreams slide away as the excitement and optimism of a new year yield to the reality of your current situation. Your new year turns out to be not that much different than your old one. You might have a brand new calendar on the wall, but everything else stays the same. You get up each day and you experience many of the same issues as last year. You still face the same fears and have the same challenges that you had last year. It doesn’t have to be that way.

Here is a success strategy that I use. It will help you stick to your resolutions and allow you to reach your goals easier and faster. The reason your excitement about your resolutions fades so quickly each year is your focus. As you thought about what you wanted to achieve or change this year, you were thinking about your dreams and goals. You were imagining how different this year would look. You were focused intently on your goals and dreams. Instead of focusing on your problems, you were focusing on ways to fix your problems. Rather than thinking about your terrible job, or about your troubled relationships, or your dilapidated car, or anything else that stresses you out, you were thinking about better jobs, better relationships, and a better car. You were thinking about a better life. So what happened? Life happened. As the days go by, you let your focus switch from dreaming about changing your life, back to the very problems

that you want to escape. So let’s change your focus back! The only way that you will be able to turn your dreams into reality is to stay focused on them.

rite your three top goals that you want to achieve this year on a piece of paper and put that paper on your nightstand by your bed. Each night before you go to sleep you should read this list of goals to yourself three times. Then read it three times in the morning when you wake up. Do this every day for three weeks. You will be amazed at how this simple technique will make a huge difference in your mindset. Not only will you be able to stick to your New Year’s resolutions, you will begin seeing solutions rather than finding more problems. The author invites you to visit freelawofattractionreport.com

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was on a flight home this week and sat next to 2 flight attendants who were also flying back home. One girl was telling me that she had been flying for 28 years and now it’s too late for her to do something different. She said, “No one will hire me now; it’s too late to change things.” First I thought, how sad that she actually believes that, plus I knew how wrong she really was. But a belief is something you tell yourself over and over again, even if it’s not true. The reality is that it’s never too late to change anything.

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so much, get a life, find a partner, get a divorce, have a better relationship, get a new job, go back to school, let go of the past, start appreciating your blessings, or have more balance, and on and on. And, it’s never too late to start enjoying your life again. Sure, we all make mistakes in life that if we could do over we might take a different path. Or wish we hadn’t said what we did or wish we had said more when we didn’t! That’s life. You live and learn, and then you move on. But some people decide that whatever happened to them in the past is a permanent disability, and they can’t change the outcome: a screwed up life or one they wish was different. Is it easy to change things when you have lived a certain way for what seems to be forever, you’ve formed bad habits, or your feel stuck in a rut? No, it’s not always easy, but it’s possible to change things. And more

Back to Basics ...27

hink it’s too change? importantly, it’s never too late to change things if you really want to. In this world where there seems to be so much stress from work, pressure from all the things you have to do but haven’t yet, worries about issues going on in your life, fear of what may happen or not happen, et cetera. It’s time to learn how to release all of this pent up anxiety, and learn to breathe again.

here is the balance in your life? Where is the break you need? Where is the fun, relaxation, freedom? Where did you get lost along the way that you began to believe that you have no control over how you live your life and the man behind the curtain pulls all of your strings? Even if you are in a job that you don’t like, feeling lonely, feeling stressed, sad, and overweight, or whatever your issues are, it’s never too late to stop and

smell the roses, to make the best of what you do have, and take the steps to change what you don’t want anymore. As the serenity prayer states, God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference. No matter what happens to us, no matter what situations fall at our doorstep, no matter what paths we’ve walked down, we all have the choice as to how we allow it to impact our lives -- either negatively or on a positive note. Some say, “Life is short.” I say, “Life is long!” So figure out how to live it well, it’s never too late!

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Back to Basics ...28 4 Personal De Worth Learnin by Tandelyn Atkinson Weaver

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o you find yourself working at a job you hate, resenting the demands of family life, and hanging out with friends you could care less about? You put on a happy smile for everyone to see, but deep inside you feel stale. You’re just waiting for the clock to turn another day, so that you can do the same thing all over again. For the past few years, nothing is interesting, exciting or fulfilling. In fact, when asked when the best day of your life is, you have a hazy picture of an event that happened years ago. Well, if this is you, know that you’re only doing this to yourself! (It may sound harsh, yes, but it’s true.) There’s absolutely no reason for people to feel that they’re merely playacting a role they didn’t want, trapped in a scene they can’t avoid. Your life is your own, and it is what you make it. You’re the captain of the ship. Perhaps what’s lacking from you is personal development skill. But worry not; help is on the way! Here are just 4 of the personal development skills you can learn:

Self-Awareness. Everything starts with selfawareness, the ability to push pause and look at what’s happening inside us at any given time. It’s a personal development skill because contrary to popular belief, it’s not as easy as it sounds. Many of us are conditioned to look more towards what’s going on

O O

O O O

outside of ourselves, than what we’re feeling and thinking. Some of us also tend to be constantly in denial about the things happening in our life. But if we don’t practice the personal development skill of being self-aware, we may miss the emotions simmering just beneath the surface. The last thing we want is for the things we repress to suddenly blow up in our faces!

Countering Irrational Thinking. Here’s a person-

al development skill worth learning: the ability to debate with one’s self when we’re being unreasonable. Irrational thoughts are those that make no sense whatsoever and may in fact be self-defeating, but are so powerful we cling to them

evelopment Skills ng this New Year

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O O O

for dear life. For instance, we may have convinced ourselves that we must please everybody in order to be loved. Or think that we need to win someone else’s approval first before we can consider ourselves a success. But really, are these thoughts helping people become who they’re meant to be? You have to know how to stomp these thoughts down; otherwise they will take over your life!

Communicating What We Feel. Few consider as-

sertive communication as a personal development skill. But it makes sense that it’s one, doesn’t it? Unless you tell people what you need, it will be difficult for them to respond effectively. There are times

when we spend our lives resenting how loved ones fail to give us with what we’re looking for, when a simple request from us would have solved the problem. The world does not have a crystal ball that can guess what’s going on inside us. If you want to be heard, you have to speak!

Bouncing Back from Failure. Lastly, invest in

developing your resilience. Failure can do either one of two things: it can defeat you, or it can make you stronger. The key really is in practice. Whenever you fail, figure out what went wrong and endeavor not to make the same mistake twice. Real estate mogul Donald Trump had to declare bankruptcy at one point in his life, but did it stop him from trying again? J. K. Rowling, author of the bestselling Harry Potter series, had to go through several manuscript rejections before getting published. When you fail, cry. But only for a moment. Harness the personal development skill of dusting one’s self off and trying again.

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f you add these four skills to your list of New Year’s resolutions, for sure you’ll have a different outlook same time next year! About the Author Tandelyn A. Weaver is the president of The Power of Positive Action, LLC. A certified life coach, Tandelyn provides free advice on the 7 Strategies Women Entrepreneurs Must Have for Success, Wealth and Personal Freedom through www. PersonalFreedomForWomen.com.

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re you troubled and weary? Is something you cling to bringing you pain? Don’t succumb to the temptation to place blame, for the pain you feel is not from out there. The pain you feel inside, deep within your being -- a sense of betrayal, loss, or bitter despair -- is a feeling you manufacture, you nurture, you hold on to. This is not to say the circumstances you have endured are not deserving of an emotional release -just don’t allow that experience more than it is due.

The tighter you cling to the pain (and the circum stances that triggered those feelings) the more power you give away. To be free to grow, to live and to love -- you must move on, you must forgive. Wherever ego looks, it sees conflict and division, pain and oppression. Ego’s tools are blame and fear. To move from the tempest to the calm, from trial to peace, from guilt to innocence, invest the talent and energy at

your disposal to recognize the world for what it is — illusion. To embrace the true, enduring reality forgive those you perceive as trespassing against you and forgive the circumstances, the events, and the people you believe have conspired against you. By let ting go of conflict you ultimately for give yourself. Remember these words: I am responsible. And, Forgiveness comes from forgiving. Life is to be lived. Whether you tend to believe you are journeying through the valley of death, or you are on a voyage of discovery, the truth is, your final destination is the safety of a warm em brace and a loving home. To get to that destination do not squander your life, nor spend it frivolously wallowing in pain or self pity. Invest your treasure, your life and your love, freely in the lives of others. To do this you must be unencumbered by guilt and for peace to reign, you must forgive — all and always. Today is not life in the fast lane; it is life in the oncoming lane. Ego puts you in the oncoming lane and accelerates life so that you find it difficult to hear the still small voice calling out to guide the way, the voice calling you home. Undo ego’s obstacles to recognize the truth. The biggest obstacles to truth are the perceptions in your mind you have been wronged or you are unworthy of going home. Both these misperceptions (blame and fear) require true forgiveness. Your ultimate task in life is to unleash yourself from the bondage of this world. The journey from sleep to wakefulness is made in small steps. You forgive by not judging, by accepting responsibility for all you experience, and by letting go of perceived hurts and injustices. You see, if this life is an illusion, then so are your perceptions of injustice. There is no one to blame and nothing to fear.

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orgiving is giving peace, allowing a smile, inviting laughter despite the circumstances. You are not separate from your creator, whoever you may conceive him to be. You are not alone. You are one — whole, complete, powerful, and loving. You are forgiven in the same measure as you forgive others. See your face in the face of your brother and your sister and know that you are one. This is your life - take responsibility for it and forgive all else. About the Author Scott F. Paradis is the author of Promise and Potential: A Life of Wisdom, Courage, Strength and Will. The author invites you to visit www.c-achieve.com.

Back to Basics ...30

Kalilangan 2011 The Challenge of Change: Preserving Traditions

ith jubilation we celebrate Kalilangan 2011 to commemorate General Santos City’s 72nd foundation anniversary, as we recognize the historical contribution of the pioneers and the rich tapestry of the cultural heritage of the tri-people (the settlers and the native Maguindanaon and B’laan tribes). This year, the local government of General Santos City partners with

Samu’t Saring Kulay ng Aking Pinagmulan, Warholesque pop art collage in mixed media, work in progress by national artist Al-Nezzar B. Ali

Mindanao State University General Santos in spearheading the 72nd Foundation Anniversary and the 22nd Kalilangan celebrations. Kalilangan as the carrier event of the foundation anniversary of the city is, in essence, the celebration of the arrival of the pioneering settlers led by Gen. Paulino Santos, and the welcome accorded by the Maguindanaon and B’laan, from which a harmonious relationship was born. This was what became known as Salubungan, the iconic event that would herald the foundation of a place molded with sweat, tempered with dedication and determination to succeed, and sweetened by the good relationship among its tri-people. At the same time, Kalilangan 2011 extols the complementing among economic activity, tourism and entertainment, with clear emphasis on the showcase of the memory of Gensan’s glorious past and the age-old traditions, including the appreciation of the city’s current cultural beats that shape the image of the present city’s landscape, thus creating cultural connections and significant dialogues between the

Pop art interpretation of Paul Llamos’ photo in oil, work in progress by Al-Nezzar B. Ali

past and the present into blending traditions. Kalilangan 2011 also gives importance to the city’s Green Gensan program -- backyard gardens and the commitment to urban agriculture focus on the environment in a manner that encourages economic competitiveness in a sustainable urban environment. This year, the city’s agricultural produce and by-products from rural barangays will be highlighted through the Agri Fair.

Pop art interpretation of an old Maguindanao family picture from Buayan in oil, work in progress by Al-Nezzar B. Ali

Mayor’s Message

THE CHALLENGE OF CHANGE: PRESERVING TRADITIONS Holding a grand event like Kalilangan 2011 is a challenge in itself, but keeping and preserving traditions in a rapidly advancing and diversifying global landscape is a far more greater challenge. Our traditions are not only our face value but also become the backbone of the ethnic group or the tribe or the society to which we belong. It has become an institution and inevitably irreplaceable. Today our traditions are now at a crossroads. Traditions face the very imposing threat that modernity and human advancement have on its relevance and significance.

In celebration of General Santos City’s 72nd Founding Anniversary, we are staging its carrier event the 22nd Kalilangan with much pride and veneration to our glorious history and colorful cultural heritage. Kalilangan 2011 is a festivity that transcends distinctions and divisions. It is a convergence, a confluence, a coming together of one people with one vision and one goal. After all, we, as Generals, are bound by a shared dream, that is bringing our beloved city to the realms of prosperity and prominence. As we continue to march towards that goal, let us also continue to give meaning and value to where we began as a people. This is essentially what this revelry is all about. Happy 72nd Foundation Anniversary and Kalilangan 2011!

DARLENE ANTONINO-CUSTODIO City Mayor | Festival Chairperson

How can we ensure the survival of these traditions, which are priceless in terms of its historical and cultural significance for future generations? It is with appreciation and understanding of these traditions that we believe, will ensure their place for posterity. Continuing to practice and celebrate them, while at the very same time, allowing, in proportionate amounts of connection with fragments of modern space and setting, will help allow these age-old beliefs and ideals stay and become relevant in today’s society. Embracing these traditions goes well in serving society, as, after all, it’s traditions that form the hallmarks of different ethnic groups and religions that exist together. In fact, it is the celebration of these traditions that make up the first step in allowing cultures or races to understand each other better; this ultimately opens up the avenue for cooperation and peaceful coexistence. Traditions transcend all barriers and mutual appreciation is critical in keeping the flame for such traditions burning bright and it is

now ours; the current generation’s responsibility of ensuring that these traditions are kept for future generations in which to play an active role. Traditions have defined societies over generations, and since it is able to guarantee that future generations are connected through their roots through its meaning and significance, we should keep them close and foster them into an impetus for ethnic cohesion amidst challenging times. More importantly, as a solace for inner searching and understanding. Kalilangan 2011’s soft opening is on February 14, formal opening on February 21, and the closing ceremony on February 27, Gensan’s 72nd foundation day. KALILANGAN HIGHLIGHTS February 21 (6 pm) sees Kalilangan 2011’s formal opening ceremony -- billed as Kasaysayan, Kultura, Kalilangan -- at the Oval Plaza Stage. The opening Obor-Obor: extravaganza is aptly concludprominent visual ed with a fireworks display. design using a traditional deco-

rative material February 22 (8 am) opens the used as a mark Farmers Day, with showcase and invitation in grand royal Caratela and Parade of Stars celebrations and Fiesta Bonanza at the Oval festivities. The Plaza Grounds, and other three tiers represent the activities for farmers, the agri tri-people, and business sector and consumers. the four colorful strips represent

the four corners February 22 (1-6 pm) sees of the city. Laro ng Lahi (Junior Category) at the Oval Plaza Grounds, where traditional Filipino games are to be played, among them Syatong (Batik Kobra)

brance and recognition of history, and celebration of cultural heritage. It also features Talus Kano sa Kamuna-munan (by invitation only). February 27 (6 am) sees the Parada ng Lahi / Kadena de Amor (Salubongan / Wreath Laying) at Plaza Heneral Santos, in front of Gen. Paulino Santos’ monument. This a historical re-enactment of the arrival of the pioneers led by Gen. Paulino Santos and the welcome given by the native Maguindanaoan and B’laan, in recognition of the great contributions of the pioneers.

with cash prizes at P5,000/ P3,000/P2,000 for 1st-3rd places, respectively; Patentero (Tubiganay) (P10,000/P7,000/P5,000); Palo Sebo (Katkat Kawayan) (P10,000/ P7,000/P5,000); Kadang-Kadang (P10,000/P7,000/P5,000); Tug-O-War (Birahanay) (P10,000/P7,000/P5,000); Boxing (different prizes for the various categories); and Basagan ng Palayok (P5,000/P3,000/P2,000). February 24 (6:30 pm) opens the Kamunamunan: Cultural Night of Remembrance at KCC Convention Center. This is a fellowship night showcasing traditional attire, dances and songs, and convergence of the tri-people, rememKadsagayan sa Kalilangan, photo by Paul Llanos

February 27 (1 pm) launches the Kadsagayan sa Kalilangan (Streetdancing Competition) from Pioneer Avenue towards the Oval Plaza Grounds. This year’s streetdancing competition depicts the relevant traditions, and the rich cultural and historical heritage of Gensan, following the Unity and Prosperity in Diversity and Peaceful Coexistence among Different Cultures mantra. February 27 (4 pm) hosts the Tagbuan sa Kalilangan closing program at the Oval Plaza Grounds, showcasing the sounds and movement of Gensan’s ethnic diversity, and topped with a fireworks display. (See the Calendar of Events on page 36 for the full list of activities.)

Co-Chairperson’s Message Assalamu alaikum! It is my great pleasure and privilege to co-chair, on behalf of MSU-GSC, this year’s celebration of the 72nd Foundation Anniversary of the city of my birth, General Santos, under the 22nd Kalilangan in partnership with the local government. At first, the idea of MSU taking the responsibility of the city’s major festivity seemed a challenge given the short time for preparation and logistics. However, the trust and confidence given by the city government to MSU in recognition of its time-honored credence as a premier academic institution in the region is something every MSUan can take pride in. Moreover, MSU as the only public higher educational institution in the city has the duty to give back to the community and make its presence relevant. Kalilangan 2011 embarks on an enriching journey that will bring the essence of Kalilangan that is true to its significance, starting with the inception of this year’s theme, The Challenge of Change: Preserving Traditions, where institutional and major events are anchored. In cooperation with the Sons and Daughters of the Pioneers, we give emphasis on the historical contribution of the founding fathers and their lofty legacy. We also highlight our rich tapestry of arts and cultural heritage articulated by the complement between past and contemporary spaces. We believe that the celebration of our age-old traditions transcends all boundaries, and forms the trademark of a diverse society co-existing well. Kalilangan bolsters the time-honored tradition of respect and tolerance, and instills mutual cooperation. This festivity plays a fundamental role in bringing together the Tri-people of Gensan to celebrate as one, signifying truly that Kalilangan is the festival of the people, and realize that their harmonious relationship over time has contributed significantly in shaping Gensan’s landscape and its rapid growth. It is our sublime duty at the present to ensure that future generations are connected through their roots. We must keep them anchored and attached that the importance of their traditions are also their own well-being and face value. With the Generals’ support, God willing, I’m most confident that Kalilangan 2011 will strengthen relations among the people, and realize our vision of putting our historical and cultural heritage to the forefront. I look forward to seeing the festival embark with fresh confidence and strong resolve to reach our goal. Talus Kanu, Agkalilang Tanu sa Magandang Gensan!

ATTY. ABDURRAHMAN TONDOG CANACAN MSU-GSC Chancellor | Festival Co-Chairperson

Kalilangan 2011’s Moves and Sounds Reverberate

alilangan 2011 holds a variety of musical and dance extravaganzas this year to engage the different academic institutions and communities in celebrating the festive spirit leading up to General Santos City’s 72nd founding anniversary. In tandem with the spectacle in movement and music, various competitions are also open to local singers, dancers, rappers, bands, and performers, with big cash prizes at stake. Here is a brief rundown of the great shows/showdowns to watch.

nder Kalilangan 2011 is the grand celebration and recognition of the best of the Tri-People of Gensan dubbed as Kamunamunan: Cultural Night of Remembrance, an affair dedicated to our main concepts of emphasizing the harmonious relationship of the three peoples and our resolve in preserving and promoting the rich tapestry of our historical and cultural treasures. These are not only our face value but the very backbone of our identities. Kamunamunan, a Maguindanaon word that means from the past or something that comes from the past, is used in this cultural affair to signify our dedication to appreciate and understand the significance of our age-old traditions and historical connection.

SAYAW PINOY -- Highland and lowland dance competition in Elementary School and High School/College categories, with screening held on February 14, 2:00 pm at Robinsons Mall Gensan. Final showdown is on February 25, 2:00 pm at Oval Centro, where contending teams compete for hefty cash prizes: 1st-P15,000/2nd-P10,000/3rdP5,000, and consolation prizes to participants.

AKO STIK Barangay Ko, Lab Ko (Acoustic Barangay Jingle Competition) -- Acoustic competition for bands composed of 3 to 8 members, ages 15 to 25 years old, to perform 1 cover song of their choice and a 1-minute musical jingle (original composition) with the theme, Aking Magandang Gensan. Cash of P15,000/ P10,000/P5,000 and consolation prizes await the winners and participants on The convergence of the three February 22, communities -- Christian (Set6:00 pm at Oval tlers), Moro (Maguindanao), and Centro. Lumad (B’laan) -- in one celebration is the hallmark of ethnic diFLIPRAP versity that exists harmoniously, FLIPTOP -- Held and the first step in allowing one simultaneously another to understand each other with AKO STIK, better and create a space for Fliprap Fliptop is mutual cooperation, respect and a competition for peaceful coexistence. youth rappers, matching wits amunamunan Cultural and sharp minds Night aims to ensure that in a musical future generations are rap exchange connected through their between conroots through its historical meantenders. Cash of ing and cultural significance, and P5,000/P3,000/P that we should keep them close P2,000 and conand foster them into an impesolation prizes tus for ethnic cohesion amidst await the winners challenging times; and more and participants importantly, as a solace for inner on February 22, searching and understanding. 6:00 pm at Oval Centro. Kamunamunan: Cultural Night of Remembrance transpires on FebBANDA ruary 24, 6:30 pm at KCC ConLAYAG (Battle vention Center, of the Bands KCC Mall of Competition) - Gensan. Open competition of the bands for both amateur and

professional artists/groups, with the theme, Aking Magandang Gensan. Hefty cash of P15,000/P10,000/P5,000 and consolation prizes await the winners and participants on February 23, 6:00 pm at the Oval Plaza Stage. abunDANCE Lyrical Dance HipHop Competition -A fusion of hiphop and krump with contemporary/lyrical style dance, staged with narrative in music and movement, and an understanding of the Tri-People of Gensan and their wealth of folk culture. Cash of P15,000/P10,000/

P5,000 and consolation prizes await the winners and participants on February 26, 7:00 pm at KCC Convention Center. HUMAN BEATBOX Showdown -- Back to back with abunDANCE, Human Beatbox is a competition in vocal percussion, which involves the art of producing drum beats, rhythm and musical sounds using oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mouth, lips, tongue and voice. Cash of P5,000/P3,000/P2,000 and P500 consolation prizes await the winners and participants on February 26, 7:00 pm at KCC Convention Center.

The Kalilangan 2011 Organizing Committee wishes to thank its Major Sponsors:

SAN MIGUEL BREWERY, INC. SOCSKSARGEN SALES - OPERATIONS

And extends its appreciation to our Minor Sponsors:

REGION XII

STANFILCO

KALILANGAN 2011 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2:00 pm FlipRap (Fliptop/ Rap) SAT Screening, Robinsons Place Gensan

1:00 pm Hudyat: Recoreda sa Barangay MON Announcement and Invitation

2:00 pm AKOSTIKBarangay Ko, Lab Ko SUN Screening, Robinsons Place Gensan

6:00 pm, Agri Fair Opening, Oval Plaza Grounds

Feb 12

Feb 13

1:00 pm Feb 14 Plaza Bazaar and Food Galore MON Soft Opening, Oval Plaza Grounds 2:00 pm, Sayaw Pinoy Screening (High School and Elementary Category Highland and Lowland), Robinsons Place Gensan 2:00 pm Pangalay (Dayang Dayang) WED Screening, Robinsons Place Gensan

Feb 16

2:00 pm, Banda Layag: Battle of the Bands Screening, KCC Convention Center 5:00 pm, Kalilangan 2011 Youth Scholastic Chess Tournament, Robinsons Place Gensan

Feb 19 SAT Oval Centro

4:00 pm Kandadapada: Visual Arts Competition,

7:00 pm, RMN Go Mindanao for Peace live concert, Oval Plaza Stage 10:00 am A Photo Exhibit – GenSUN-SUN san Camera Club, KCC Mall of Gensan

Feb 20-27

4:00 pm GMA Kapuso Night, KCC SUN Convention Center, KCC Mall of Gensan

Feb 20

Feb 21

6:00 pm, Kasaysayan, Kultura, Kalilangan Formal Festival Opening, Oval Plaza Stage (with fireworks display) 9:00 pm, RPN DXDX Concert with Red Cross Dugong Generals 2, Oval Plaza Stage 8:00 am Feb 22 Farmers Day: Caratela, Parade TUE of Stars Fiesta Bonanza, Oval Plaza Grounds 1:00-6:00 pm, Laro ng Lahi (Junior Category), Oval Plaza Grounds 6:00 pm, AKO STIK-Barangay ko, Lab Ko (AcousticBarangay Jingle Competition), Oval Centro 6:00 pm, FlipRap Competition (simultaneous with AKOSTIK Competition), Oval Centro

Feb 23 WED

7:00 am IPM Amazing Race, Oval Plaza Grounds

1:00-6:00 pm, Laro ng Lahi (Senior Category), Oval Plaza

1:00 pm, Traditional Food Expo/Competition, Oval Centro 2:00 pm, Tadaman Cultural Showcase: Kulintangan sa Kalilangan, Pangalay Dayang Dayang Competition, Oval Centro 4:00 pm, Traditional Games Exhibition: Sipa sa Mangis, Damlo Anok (Audience Challenge), Padsaleda sa Manok (Chicken Chase), Oval Plaza Grounds 6:30 pm, Kamunamunan: Cultural Night of Remembrance, KCC Convention Center, KCC Mall of Gensan 7:00 pm, Bombo Radyo: Tambalan sa Kantahan sa Kalilangan, Oval Plaza Stage 8:00 am5:00 pm Dancesport Workshop, Parish Center, Roxas East Avenue

Feb 24-25 THU-FRI

8:00 am Agri Techno Forum, AVR MSU FRI Graduate School, MSU Gensan

Feb 25

8:00 am Kalilangan Badminton Open, Mr FRI-SAT Bigshot Badminton Court

Feb 25-26

6:00 pm, Banda Layag (Battle of the Bands) Competition), Oval Plaza Stage

2:00 pm Mga Sayaw Pinoy (Highland and FRI Lowland Dance Competition), Oval Centro

7:00 pm, Coke Cheerleading Competition, Lagao Gymnasium

4:00 pm, Kapuso Mall Show, KCC Convention Center, KCC Mall

Feb 24 THU MSU Gensan

8:00 am Agri Techno Forum, AVR MSU Graduate School,

Feb 25

7:00 pm, Tapuk Alingogngog Street Party, Laurel East Avenue 8:00 pm, Robinsons Street Party, Robinsons Mall

8:00 pm, Foam Party, East Asia Royale Hotel 9:00 pm, RGMA Singing for Peace, Oval Plaza Stage 9:00 amFeb 26-27 5:00 pm Airsoft SAT-SUN Kingdom of Generals, MSU HS Campus 6:00 am5:00 pm 1st Motorcycle SAT Grand Prix, Robinsons Place Gensan

Feb 26

8:00 am, Agri Techno Forum, AVR MSU Graduate School, MSU Gensan 10:00 am, Dancesport Competition, Robinsons Place Gensan 1:00 pm, Gymkhana Invitational Open (HONDA), Mabuhay I.T. Park

East Asia Royale Hotel 9:00 pm, Globe-TM Astig Fest Concert, Oval Plaza 6:00 am Parada ng Lahi/ SUN Kadena de Amor (Salubongan/Wreath Laying), Plaza Heneral Santos

Feb 27

10:00 am, RPN Dugong Generals 2, Robinsons Place Gensan 10:00 am, National Mountain Bike Downhill Challenge 2011, Leyson Ranch, Nopol Hills, Conel 1:00 pm, Kadsagayan sa Kalilangan Streetdancing Competition, Pioneer-Oval Plaza Grounds 4:00 pm, Tagbuan sa Kalilangan Closing Program, Oval Plaza Stage

2:00 pm, Boxing at the Park, Oval Covered Court

7:00 pm, KCC Celebrity Mall Tour, KCC Mall of Gensan

3:00-5:00 pm, Dog Show, MSU HS Covered Court

7:00 pm, Ezra Band Concert, Lagao Gym

5:00 pm, Robinsons Celebrity Mall Show, Robinsons Place Gensan

7:00 pm, Kasadya sa Kadalanan Street Party, Pendatun/Matalam/Roxas

6:00 pm, Triple Boxing Championship, Lagao Gym

CONTINUING EVENTS From Feb 7 -- Carnival, Oval Plaza Grounds From Feb 14 -- Food Galore sa Oval and Plaza Bazaar, Oval Plaza Grounds From Feb 21 -- Agri Fair 2011, Oval Plaza Grounds

7:00 pm, Hiphop Lyrical abunDance Contest/Human Beatbox Showdown, KCC Convention Center 8:00 pm, Foam Party,

KALILANGAN 2011 SECRETARIAT

Front, L-R: Al Nezzar Ali-Cultural Events Manager, Dr Mary Lynn S. AbieraFestival Director, Alma Celesthia Dumalag-Aguja-Asst Festival Director, Noralyn Bidad-Secretariat Office Manager, George Gunay-Multimedia/Promotions. Standing, L-R: Tomasa Almiñana-Cashier, Cheryl Dindang-Food Galore Committee, Toto Bisnar-Marketing, Karla Sechong-Torcelino-Media Affairs, Vasma Hassan-Agri Fair, Annie Aileen Otacan-Sports Committee, Samrod Kathiang-Internal Affairs, Oscar Pongasi-External Affairs

Places To Go ...37 bars H GGPick Babes Bar - One of East Asia Royale Hotel’s watering holes, with discotheque, live music Thu-Fri (2nd Flr, Arcade 1, East Asia Royale Hotel, National Highway, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5534123 ext. 106) GGPick Cassado Billiard Bar - Pool tables with lady attendants, live band, ice-cold beers (Grd Flr, Arcade 1, East Asia Royale Hotel, National Highway, Gen. Santos, +63-83-3028389) Red Rocket Sports Bar - Warm meals and ice-cold beers (Grd Flr, Arcade 2, East Asia Royale Hotel, National Highway, Gen. Santos) GGPick Pacman Sports Bar - Five pool tables/dart boards, The Pacman himself if you’re lucky, lots of lounge space (JMP Bldg 2, Aparente, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5528880) GGPick Q Bar - Great place to dine and be seen in, for chilling and dancing, with superb music and yuppie crowd (SunCity Complex, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5543202)

cafés G GGPick BluGré Cafe - Next best thing to Starbucks, designer coffees, hot/cold mixes, filling meals (Robinsons Place, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5542177) [wi◦fi] GGPick BluGré Cafe - Bigger and more relaxing than the one at Robinsons, same great drinks/eats (South Osmeña, Gen. Santos, +63-5521111) [wi◦fi] GGPick Cafe Amoree - Local gem, great drinks / eats, off city center but worth a visit (Mabuhay Rd, Gen. Santos, +63-835542173) [wi◦fi] Cafe Paulino - Unpretentious coffee place, central yet a quiet retreat from the crowd (Gaisano Mall, Gen. Santos) Caffe Firenzo - Gourmet coffees, desserts, sandwiches, pizza, open 24/7 (SunCity Complex, National Highway, Gen. Santos) [wi◦fi] Coffee Club 101 - Coffee, pasta, desserts, free PC stations for patrons (Laurel East, Gen. Santos, +63-835535430) [wi◦fi] GGPick Coffee Club 101 - Great place to people-watch and be seen in, perfect chill after shopping (Robinsons Place, Gen. Santos, +63-835534878) [wi◦fi] Coffee Dream - Coffee and sweets for after shopping or while waiting for company, reopening soon (2nd Flr/Basement 1, KCC Mall, Gen. Santos, +63-83-3018263) [wi◦fi]

Fagioli Coffee Shop - Great after hours haunt, tends to get really crowded at night (Petron Station, Lagao, National Highway, Gen. Santos, +63-83-552749) [wi◦fi] GGPick Fagioli Coffee Shop - Private yet accessible, perfect chill after shopping (Grd Flr, KCC Mall, +63-835542384) [wi◦fi] Generals Brew - Fine gourmet coffees, sandwiches, combo meals (Pioneer, Gen. Santos, +63-835526559) [wi◦fi] Red Ribbon Bakeshop - Cakes, pastries, sumptuous Filipino/Western meal combos (Lower Grd Flr, KCC Mall, Gen. Santos, +63-83-3018388)

hotels J CBHL Garden Rooms & Dormitel - Central location and tasteful guest rooms at budget rates (Laurel, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5546336) [wi◦fi] GGPick East Asia Royale Hotel Stone’s throw away from the financial district, shopping malls, convention/ exhibition centers, with function rooms/ restaurants/bars (Grand Royale Ballroom, Babes Bar), business center, 24-hour room service (National Highway, Gen. Santos, +6383-5534123) [wi◦fi] GGPick Family Country Hotel & Convention Centre - Guest rooms, meeting/banquet halls (up to 1,000 heads), pool, in-house Cafe Leticia amidst greenery (Mateo Rd, Lagao, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5528895) [wi◦fi] GGPick Ice Castle - Modern, centrally located, offers excellent accommodations, in-house bar and restaurant (Provido Village, City Heights, Gen. Santos, +63-835544423, +63-83-8269026) [wi◦fi] Phela Grande Hotel - Luxury guest rooms, in-house Meilih Restaurant/ Cafe Eduardo (Magsaysay cor. Atis, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5524220) [wi◦fi] GGPick SunCity Suites - Hotel at the heart of upscale and trendy SunCity Complex (National Highway, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5523333) [wi◦fi] Sydney Hotel - Centrally located, offers comfortable accommodations and excellent restaurants, professional banquet/conference facilities (Pendatun cor. Pioneer, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5525479) [wi◦fi]

resorts 6 Davak Ridge Resort - Sun, sky, and all-year-round beach fun (Gumasa, Glan, Sarangani, +63-835524492) GGPick Gensan View Resort Sun, sky, swimming pool (Nursery Rd, Lagao, Gen. Santos, +63-83-3028237) GGPick Le Jardin Arnevel - Convention halls, swimming pool,2,000sq.m. garden, spacious parking area (Mabuhay Rd, Gen. Santos, +63-833012513) [wi◦fi] GGPick Lemlunay Resort Clifftop seaside resort with excellent villas, restaurant and bar, pool, and

worldclass dive site (Tinoto, Maasim, Sarangani, +63-920-914 9259 | South Point Divers: www.southpointdivers. ph) [wi◦fi] GGPick Merl Garden Spring Resort - Zip-line ride, pool, horseback riding and more (Lahit, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, +63-919-4577221) Olaer Spring Resort - Natural springs, lasting city icon (Apopong, Gen. Santos, +63-83-3802345) GGPick Rosal Beach Resort Sun, sky, and all-year-round white sand beach fun (Gumasa, Glan, Sarangani, +63-920-9212203)

restaurants Andrea Ticia Family Restaurant - Green, homey setting for a relaxing dining experience (Mateo Rd, Lagao, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5528896) GGPick Big Ben Steaks & Grills - Steaks you can always rely on in a homey, central setting, you’d wanna hang out long after the plates are cleared. (Robinsons Place, Gen. Santos, +63-83-3030315) GGPick Bigby’s Cafe & Restaurant - Great coffees and sumptuous food platters. Try Pescado Al Fresco -dory in onion sauce! (Robinsons Place, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5520111) Cookie Factory - Home-style restaurant (J. Catolico Sr, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5522035) Firenzo Deli - Pastries, sandwiches (SunCity Complex, National Highway, Gen. Santos) [wi◦fi] Gio’s Mongo Grill - One of Tiongson Arcade’s main draw, Gio’s has great tasting barbecue (Tiongson Arcade, Lagao, Gen. Santos) Grab-A-Crab - Exciting seafood, crab specialties (Laurel East, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5535430) [wi◦fi] Grab-A-Crab - Same Grab-A-Crab vibe, only smaller (Robinsons Place, Gen. Santos) [wi◦fi] Gusteau’s Restaurant - Fine crab and seafood delicacies (SunCity Complex, National Highway, Gen. Santos) [wi◦fi] GGPick Little Dubai Kebab Grills- Taste of exotic Middle East at half the price (SAFI Arcade, Bula Rd, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5520140, +63-922-8141010) GGPick The Little Kitchen Serves European (pizza, pasta, chicken cordon bleu), Oriental (kalbi chim, ebi tempura, chao fan), and Filipino (sizzling bangus sisig, buco pandan with lychee) in Mediterranean-inspired and Filipino-warmed ambience. (Cor. Quirino and Zapote, Gen. Santos) [wi◦fi] Mandarin Tea Garden Restaurant - Amazing dimsum, Chinese/Filipino delicacies (South Osmeña, Gen. Santos, +63-83-3013333) [wi◦fi] Ocean Cave Restaurant - Fine seafood and Filipino specialties (SunCity Complex, National Highway, Gen. Santos) [wi◦fi]

GGPick Pablo’s Steaks and Crabs - Pablo’s of Paseo Del Sol has perfected the art of preparing steaks (certified US Angus) (National Highway, Gen. Santos, +63-835539298) GGPick Paseo Del Sol - Hacienda-style haven, catering to theme/ special events, serving Pablo’s/ Ranchero fare, as well as exclusive dishes for private functions/catering service (National Highway, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5539298) GGPick Ranchero Grill - Paseo Del Sol’s old-timer Ranchero takes native/Filipino/ranch-style food to the next level (National Highway, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5539298) GGPick Red Trellis Seafood Garden - Asian fusion-inspired, gives Singaporestyle chili/black pepper crab places a run for their money (Across NDDUIBED, Tiongson, Lagao, Gen. Santos, +63-83-3022722) Rooftop Grill Ihaw-Ihaw Seafood/grill, great view of Plaza Heneral Santos (6th Flr, Sydney Hotel, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5525479 ext. 103) [wi◦fi] GGPick Royale Lounge - Relaxing café with minimalist decór, acoustic music Wed-Sat (East Asia Royale Hotel, Gen. Santos, +63-835534123) [wi◦fi] GGPick Sarangani Highlands Garden & Restaurant - Hilltop joint with views of Sarangani Bay, downtown Gensan, Mt Parker/Mt Matutum. Nature, fresh air, good food, great for private parties (Tambler, Gen. Santos, +63-83-3040752) Wanchin Dimsum Restaurant Good food, pool table, piano, great view of Plaza Heneral Santos (2nd Flr, Sydney Hotel, Gen. Santos, +6383-5525479) [wi◦fi]

resto-bars H Crocodillo’s Resto Bar - Occasional expat haunt, laid-back crowd, cheap beers (Laurel East, Gen. Santos) Drill Shack- Aussie staples as salads, steaks, burgers and properly condom-wrapped beers (Grd Flr, Arcade 1, East Asia Royale Hotel, National Highway, Gen. Santos) GGPick Jmix Resto Bar - Great food, great music (JMP Bldg 2, City Heights, Gen. Santos, +63-835542368) GGPick Piyesta! KTV and Resto Bar - Value-formoney combo meals, inventive dishes, novelty drinks and cocktails, tower drinks, intimate KTV rooms, friendly staff, al fresco heaven (Robinsons Place, Gen. Santos, +63-83-5542139)

Kasalang Filipino 2011

hat do you get when you put together fashion designer Johnny Abad’s immaculate collection, our hometown General Santos, and five of this bustling metropolis’ beauty queens in one beautiful affair? It’s the Gensan leg of Kasalang Filipino 2011: 6th Philippine Wedding and Tourism Fair Roadshow. Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines president Johnny Abad’s prized wedding gowns, flown in direct from Manila, share centerstage with no less than the beauteous and

exceptional Miss Gensan 2010 Genevieve Mutia, Miss Gensan 2009 Romarie Ivy Cunanan, Miss Gensan 2006 Rean Hazel Acosta, Lakambini 2010 Caroline Lim, and Lakambini 2009 Shayne Lara at the Kasalang Pinoy 2011’s Wedding Fashion Show. Kasalang Filipino 2011, running from February 24 to 26 at the Atrium of Gaisano Mall Gensan, also features creative wedding displays, the Ever Bilena bridal makeup talk and demo, Ever Bilena’s Gandang Pinay showcase, a bridal flower arrangement demo, and a bridal makeup contest. Produced by Project O! Consultants and co-presented by ABS-CBN and Kasal.com, Kasalang Filipino is held with major partners Gaisano Mall and BMA Group of Companies.

The roadshow of Kasalang Filipino, the premiere wedding and tourism fair and exhibit of the Philippines, will round up 12 cities nationwide throughout the year. Gensan is its second stop after Cabanatuan. The never-before-concocted ensemble pictorial for Kasalang Filipino’s promotional campaign, featuring the five beauty queens and Abad’s equally stunning gowns, was directed by Jose Dino Veloso and shot by Omar Gallinero for Montage Digital Photography, with hair and makeup by Donna Mae Congson of Hairs & Nails Salon. (ANPJ)

Lakan at Lakambini ng Gensan Continues to Nurture its Legacy

he Search for Lakan at Lakambini ng Gensan takes off this year as a spin-off of Lakan at Lakambini ng Kalilangan of previous festivals. Now a stand-alone beauty-and-talent pageant for young men and women from General Santos, independent of the official Kalilangan 2010 activities, the Lakan and Lakambini search continues to stir interest both among locals and visitors even as it recaptures its legacy of sophistication and relevance in the revamped founding anniversary celebrations. Outside Kalilangan, the search remains an institution, and promises to discover more talents and beauties this year and beyond.

As in its early beginnings, the search shines the limelight on Gensan’s finest youth as they battle for supremacy on stage to wow the audience and win the judges’ votes. This year the candidates will walk the ramp in exotic and themed costumes, showcase their talent in live performances, and match

wits and charm with other contenders to the Lakan at Lakambini ng Gensan titles. The search opens at the Atrium of Gaisano Mall of Gensan on February 12 with the elimination round and screening of the candidates. Last year, Gevic Romero and Caroline Lim were crowned Lakan and Lakambini, prevailing over their peers in a close contest of looks, talent, and wit. “It was a tight competition right from the start, as the candidates sashayed their best to the judges’ hearts. In the end, it was Gevic’s and Caroline’s answer to the final question that sealed their fate and the crown,” recounted Orman Ortega Manansala, top man at Project O! Consultants, which is the outfit that’s running this year’s Lakan and Lakambini search, among other events at the fringes of the founding anniversary celebrations and Kalilangan 2011. This year, a handful of young men and women ages 18 to 24 compete for the much anticipated and closely followed show. The talent presentation and fashion show follow on February 19 at the Atrium of Gaisano Mall of Gensan, and the pageant and coronation night on February 23 also at Gaisano. The Search for Lakan at Lakambini ng Gensan 2011 is organized by Project O! Consultants, with major partners Gaisano Mall of Gensan and BMA Group of Companies. The search is also supported by Ever Bilena, Smart, STI, Coca-Cola, Asia United Bank, Envy Me Salon, Print Depot, Gensan PCOM, Montage Digital Photography, B-Ads Graphics Icon, GenSantos.com, GandaEverSoMuch.com, and the SoCCSKSarGen Bloggers. (Photography by Omar Gallineros for Montage Digital Photography | Wardrobe and grooming by Mark dela Cruz | Makeup and grooming by Joanne Aquio)

Donna, ‘Do and the Debutante

Donna & Romarie’s Romarie Wedding (Shoot) Back to Back ...40

et’s start the year with the o, I did not expect that my first pictorial basics in hair care. We this year would be a bridal shoot. It was should promise to take exchallenging for me not because I hadn’t tra care of our crowning glory, our by Donna Mae tried to tie the knot but because I needed to portray hair, and ourselves. Shampooing a convincingly euphoric, lovely and sweet bride. Congson and and conditioning is key. Always Omar Gallinero, one of my favorite photographers Romarie Ivy take note that shampoos are for here, captured Cunanan the scalp and conditioners, for just that. I highly the hair. Shampoos clean excess regard his phodirt and scum off our scalp, while tography, as well conditioners bring moisture and proteins back in as the effort and time entailed. our hair, which are lost from sun exposure and The photos were surreal, as if chemical hair treatments. We do not need to shamthey were hand-painted. poo daily as it removes the natural oils in our scalp, Let’s get this straight: tiaras which serves as our natural protection against are stunning. Royal, elegant, timeharsh environmental elements. What we must do less wedding gowns and classic every day, especially for those who accessories are all things that can have undergone chemical treataptly help to make a bride more ments like rebonding, color and beautiful. perm, is to condition it. Take note Preparing your skin for the not to include the scalp and focus most important day of your life is on the tip of the hair because that’s the first step. It is very important the oldest part and where moisture as well to try your bridal make up is needed most. before the big event. Usually bridal makeup is very soft and natural. anuary 29, 2011 was a very Stick to warm colors, soft peach special day for Mr & Mrs eye shadow and blush. Nude lips Chito Bogayong as they will be great for you, too. presented their youngest daughter, Eugeremi Justine EJ Bogayong est we forget, do save the date for to Gensan’s high society on her the next big bridal event in Gensan, 18th birthday. It was a glamorous, organized by Project O!’s Orman fashion-inspired event. Aptly named Manansala, the Kasalang Filipino BridStrut the Fuchsia Line, it was al Event at the fabulous and fashionista a well-thought out and superbly favorite Gaisano Mall. Johnny Abad, Presiorganized event, not a surprise dent of Fashion Designers’ Association of coming from the ultra creative the Philippines, will be in town to show off tandem of of Egai Cadiente and his latest and greatest collection. Of course Bing Cariño. Not to be outdone, you’ll see the beauty queens of Gensan on renowned fashion designer Emi the catwalk modeling the gowns, and many Englis presented his stylish, vibrant of the talented event professionals showand classy collection. It was a casing their goodies, too. We definitely can’t one-of-a-kind debut, just perfect miss the beauty lounge and treatments for fabulous debutante EJ, who also available that day either! Come by and say performed a breath-taking cotillion opener with no less than Atlanta hi at Gaisano February 24-26. Ballet’s principal dancer, Jullius Lagare. Family and friends were in All smiles, I can’t stop imagining how classic gowns and stylish formals, all of them red-carpet-worthy. EJ’s I would look like on my real wedding day! gala was complete because all the people that mattered were there Haha! Good luck to all the 2011 brides! to witness her comingof-age -- the Bogayongs and bestfriends who are Photo by Apple Greatson all proud of her, most Francisco | Hair especially her loving sister, by Envy Me Salon | MakeEhlaiza. For EJ, continue up by Donna to be a blessing to others, Mae Congson and enjoy and cherish all your experiences. Always remember that you already are what you are, and what you are is BEAUTIFUL.

Paparazzi Pictorial -- Model: Pia ManilayMillado, props and lighting: Marthin Millado. Photographer Apple Greatson Francisco also thanks Christine Padilla, Kristoffer Millado, and Bong Sun of SunCity Suites. (ANPJ)

Other high-profile cases involving the paparazzi include Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ restraining order against Ron Galella in New York in 1972, and more recently in the United Kingdom, actress Sienna Miller and singer Amy Winehouse’s injunctions that prevent the paparazzi from following them and gathering outside their houses.

Who would forget the inquest jury that looked into the deaths of Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed from a highspeed car chase in Paris in 1997 while being pursued by paparazzi?

Paparazzi, the singular form being paparazzo (male) and paparazza (female), refers to photographers who specialize in ambush photography of celebrities, often done in a brash and intrusive manner, with little or no allowance for the subjects’ privacy.

Paparazzi

Francisco

The Acute by Apple EyeGreatson

Arts & Culture ● Urban Living ● Lifestyle & Entertainment ● People & Places ● Health & Environment ● GGList / GGPicks

Gensan Gazer

General Santos City’s First Lifestyle, Trades & Travel Magazine ● January-February 2011

Hello We re back ’to basics!

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