Balikbayan Magazine October/November 2013 by Balikbayan Magazine

N D R ETI R E M T A E

IS S

TH E IN VE

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

BALIKBAYAN MAGAZINE.COM

ISSUE NO. 32

october & november 2013

44 DISCOVERY Contributing writer and travel extraordinaire, Regine Rafael set out and explored the unknown island of Caramoan—where the American show, Survivor was filmed. Read about her tale of mountain trekking, spelunking, and island hopping through the discovery of Caramoan Island. 46 ESSENCE OF PLACE Hollywood Foreign Press writer, Ruben Nepales recounts his journey to Palawan, Cebu, and Bohol. Read about why his trip to the Philippines made him want to come home more often. 52 EXPLORER Balikbayan’s Associate Editor, Steno Padilla takes on quite the assignment— to explore the Northern Frontier that is Ilocos. Read why this region of the Philippines delivers a most unique and rare experience you won’t find anywhere else in the country. 60 ADVENTURE Balikbayan’s features editor, Lady May Martinez, travels to the island of Mindanao. Read about her unraveling of this beautiful and exotic island and why her journey should dispel the “dangerous” label that Mindanao has. 78 WHERE TO EAT Where can you find a taste of heaven?— That is freshly baked breads, pastries, and comfort food at affordable prices? We make our way to Paranaque and taste first hand why Manna Bakery Cafe is heavenly goodness on Earth. 86 PARTING SHOT Lake Sebu us located in South Cotabato in the Allah Valley region on the island of Mindanao. This remarkable photo captures the exotic and undiscovered beauty of this exciting destination.

The Northern Frontier

ILOCOS 4

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ISSUE NO. 32

october & november 2013

16 ON THE COVER Planning for your retirement? Looking to build your investment portfolio? With Ayala Land’s 25th Year Anniversary celebrating the Filipino, we feature 6 of their exciting projects as real estate continues to blossom in the Philippines. 28 RESIDENCES A new Ayala Land project in Laguna combines urban living with modern art. At Nuvali, outdoor art installations made by the country’s renowned artists provide a unique and beautiful surrounding to a local community. 32 INVESTING If you want to invest in the Philippines but does not want to do it in Manila, then Cebu is the hands down choice. Read on as Professor Enrique Soriano explains why the Queen City of the South offers the best real estate deal. 34 BUSINESS Discover why the Philippines is the best place to launch a startup company. With 76 percent of the population under 40 years old and a growing economy, the country is becoming a great first base for startups aspiring to tackle Southeast Asia. 38 REAL ESTATE Premier lifestyle townships are dominating the urban landscape. Adhering to international standards, Megaworld leads the booming property development industry in the country. Starting with Eastwood City, it has touched down at The Fort to expand its lifestyle townships.

The foremost central business district in the Philippines constantly reinvents itself. This time a premier entertainment district rises from an old horse racetrack, thus the name Circuit Makati. Check out this new hub as it brings back the energy that once captured a generation.

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36 THE EXECUTIVE ROOM “...This is where all of Martin’s blood, sweat, and tears through the years paid off as after a series of interviews with the RWM’s bigwigs, it was decided that Martin perfectly fit the bill and was soon hired as VP for Marketing—his biggest role to date.”

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PUBLISHER & CEO

ROGER L. ORIEL

PRESIDENT & CO-PUBLISHER

CORA M. ORIEL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF VICE PRESIDENT FOR SALES

RAPHAEL JOHN C. ORIEL SHARON ANN BATHAN-SAN PEDRO

VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVERTISING

NOEL O. GODINEZ

VICE PRESIDENT FOR MARKETING AND SPECIAL EVENTS, PHILIPPINES

VINCE F. SAMSON

EDITORIAL CONSULTANT ASSOCIATE EDITOR FEATURES EDITOR

VOLUME IV NO.V ROD CORNEJO STEPHEN NORRIES A. PADILLA LADY MAY MARTINEZ

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

MOMAR VISAYA, BILLY DE LA CRUZ, RUBEN V. NEPALES, JANET SUSAN R. NEPALES,

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

PROFESSOR ENRIQUE M. SORIANO, REGINE RAFAEL

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

NOEL TY, CONSTANTINE S. AGUSTIN, FRANCIS NICOLEI TAWAGON

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

KIMBERLY T. DELOS SANTOS, NOEL TY

MULTIMEDIA DEVELOPERS

NICOLE MARIE P. ALVARO, DESIDERATA M. PASION

GRAPHIC DESIGNER ACCOUNTING MANAGERS

CIRCULATION/ADMIN ASSISTANT CIRCULATION MANAGER

ON THE COVER IMAGE: OVERVIEW OF AYALA LAND PROPERTIES LOCATION: MAKATI, PHILIPPINES PHOTO COURTESY OF AYALA LAND PROPERTIES, INC.

JAMES CHRISTER C. FRANCISCO VICTORIA C. FABRO, GEMMA C. FABRO, JOSEPH MARK T. CAMIRING FRANCIS NICOLEI TAWAGON ARTHUR SIBULANGCAO

ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS, INCORPORATED PUBLISHER & CEO

ROGER L. ORIEL

PRESIDENT

CORA M. ORIEL

THE ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS, INC

RAPHAEL JOHN C. ORIEL

THE 2ND FLOOR UNITS D&E

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The Publisher's Note

Keeping A Journal

VOLUME IV, NUMBER V

The Philippines is basking in an economic renaissance. We are the fastest growing economy in Asia with 7.8% GDP growth in the first quarter of this year—driven by our robust manufacturing and construction industries. We have also received investment rating upgrades from independent credit ratings agencies such as Standard and Poor’s, Japan Credit Ratings Agency, and Fitch. However, some people are skeptical and worry about the bullish economy—that we are primed for an economic bubble that will eventually burst perhaps the way it did back in 2008 in the US and fairly recently in certain European countries such as Spain and Greece. But this time around, financial, and economic experts agree—our fundamentals are strong. We are riding on our country’s flourishing BPO industry (the Philippines is now the call center capital of the world, overtaking India), the massive remittances from Filipinos abroad (which continues to exceed $20 Billion year after year), and the remarkable increase of domestic and international tourism (up 11% from 2012). There is no such thing as the “right” time to invest. There is only 1 rule, “When you can afford it.” Whether it’s on real estate, businesses, mutual funds, franchising, or in the various stocks and bonds in the Philippine Stock Exchange, our market is bright, and we should make hay while the sun is shining. For those of you who have retired or are preparing for retirement, let your hard-earned money work for you with the vibrant prospects of what the Philippines has to offer. Investing is an act of faith, but to do so in our home country— tells not just the world, but each other, that we are confident and believe in a better and brighter future for the Philippines.

ROGER L. ORIEL PUBLISHER & CEO

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An Exciting Time For An Exciting Country The Philippines has the 12th largest population and currently stands as the 34th largest economy in the World. Goldman Sachs, the iconic American financial institution projects the Philippine economy to be 14th by the year 2050—expecting a multi-decade run of extraordinary growth. The criteria set forth by Goldman Sachs evaluated the prospective outlook of the Philippines in terms of macroeconomic stability, political maturation, openness of trade and investment policies, and the quality of education. The Philippines is now home to many multinational companies, ranging from legendary corporations: IBM, Toyota, Intel, Microsoft, and now Google. Hundreds of global businesses are looking to take advantage of the country’s low cost wages and highly educated English-speaking workforce (ranking #1 in the World in Business English fluency according to the Global English Corporation). In this issue you will read about high-rise luxury condominiums that are blossoming in newly built cities and why this country comprised of 7,107 islands is rapidly maturing into that Asian Tiger economy—joining the likes of China, Korea, Japan, and Singapore on the global stage. In addition to these beautiful residences and modern developments, we share with you 4 travel stories: (44) our discovery of Caramoan Island, (64) an exotic adventure to mysterious Mindanao, (52) our exploration of Ilocosthe Northern Province of Luzon, and finally, a (46) first hand account of a Balikbayan’s journey to Palawan, Cebu, and Bohol—a journey that convinced him to come home more often. In January of 2007, I first came to the Philippines for a short 3-week vacation. During this time, the onset of the “great recession” was quickly becoming a reality in the US and spreading like wildfire across the world. At that time I was living in Manhattan and The Asian Journal had recently expanded and established the New York & New Jersey edition of the newspaper. (It truly takes a remarkable entrepreneur to understand that opportunities abound in times of crisis-or so my dad told me). Back then, despite the media portraying society’s attitude of “anxiety and fear,” fresh college graduates, such as myself, awoke with optimism everyday. I remember going to the Philippines thinking, “Surely this recession must precipitate more arduous times for third world countries.” To my surprise, this was far from the truth. I asked my dad, “What will happen to the Philippines during this global recession?” And he explained with a smile, “We Filipinos are an optimistic people. What recession? The Philippines is growing.” I remember driving through Makati and seeing what was eventually going to become Bonifacio Global City; thinking, “The Sky is falling—the global economy is going to collapse and this country is constructing new malls, buildings and new cities?—Good luck.” Yet, in 2010, during the height of the global recession, it was only the Philippines who defied the economic slowdown. During a time when economies were fading, the Philippines became robust and persisted above global trends, even matching China. It’s amazing to think that just a few years ago there was no Greenbelt 5, Bonifacio High Street, Resorts World, or Serendra. I didn’t see the Ferraris, Porsches, or Range Rovers that I see on the streets today. Last month, I was video chatting with my mom while I was at IHop in Global City and the first thing she said was, “Are you here in the US?—Looks like you’re at the IHop!” It no longer surprises me to see iconic American restaurants or well-known European or Japanese brands setting up businesses here in the Philippines. The Philippines is simply no longer a market option, but a pivotal country for the growth and expansion for any type of business. That is why we encourage and promote the Philippines as the best country not only for investing or retiring in, but to also live, work, and to raise your family. Indeed—it truly is an exciting time for an exciting country.

RAPHAEL JOHN C. ORIEL

Editor-in-Chief

RJ.ORIEL@ASIANJOURNALINC.COM

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Vertical Garden Living at the Heart of Ayala Center www.ayalalandpremier.com/Garden-towers.php

hen people think of cities, they right away conjure images of landmarks, the monuments and towers that embody the ideals and lifestyles of its inhabitants. Gardens, on the other hand, call to mind the privacy and serenity of the outdoors, abundance cultivated for communion with nature. Both are beloved for different reasons, and speak volumes of the spirit of a location. So when a city’s gateway—its most visible and valued location—is marked by a garden climbing 51 stories into the sky, this is a city that’s proud of its growth and continuing evolution. That it’s a residential tower encircled by sought-after destinations and cherished experiences—the city is devoted to those who call it home. Ayala Land Premier celebrates Makati City with Garden Towers, a two-tower community anchoring Ayala Center’s multibillion-peso redevelopment. Raising the residential condominium experience to a new level, charging everyday with the excitement of what Ayala Center is and the promise of what it’s about to be—a new, greater Glorietta. International corporate headquarters. A proud hotel row including Fairmont Makati & Raffles Suites, and Holiday Inn Suites. Garden Towers enriches this iconic lifestyle setting with a carefully planned sequence of atmospheres. Nurturing intervals with nature— seamless green connections with Glorietta’s Palm Promenade, expansive gardens and approximately half a hectare of open space. Welcoming residents home—a garden and green wall lobby experience. Liberating lifestyles from schedules—fitness amenities open any time of day or night, meeting facilities at hand with a simple reservation.

For more information please contact us at our Toll Free Numbers: If you’re in the US call 1-855-MYAYALA (1-855-6929252) or 1-855-5726632. If you’re in the Philippines, you may contact us at (+632) 848 5000. For other countries, please visit www.ayalalandpremier.com. Or email us at info@atAyala.com

SKY GARDENS AND SUNROOMS Themes of natural light and air consistently invigorate life at Garden Towers. From the fifth building level onwards, sky gardens are a remarkable new concept in indoor-outdoor environments. Residents belonging to the same floor share an uncommon park experience—greens, fresh air, and expansive horizons—high above the city. From the living room, the simple act of opening a sliding door unfolds a special connection to the city. In place of the traditional balcony is a new sunroom concept—an all-weather indoor-outdoor space, with floor-toceiling windows bathing this exceptional room in a feeling of lightness. Be it for reading, working, or meditation, waterproof wooden decking and provisions encourage all these activities in touch with nature. NEW DIMENSIONS TO LIFE IN THE CITY 1-and 2-bedroom residences, Sky Flats, and a limited selection of Park Villas and Sky Villas—all reveal the myriad dimensions of city, nature, and self. An outdoors lifestyle, rain or shine. A personal sanctuary, next door to the city’s most visited places. Everything you love about living in Makati City, nurtured by everything you’ve always wanted it to be. OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

Iconic Parkside Living www.alveoland.com.ph/Escala-salcedo.php

With Salcedo Village being a core residential hub in Makati City, future homeowners of Escala Salcedo will greatly benef it from all the cosmopolitan and urban conveniences of this world-class city just a heartbeat from where they live. For more information please contact us at our Toll Free Numbers: If you're in the US call 1-855-MYAYALA (1-855-6929252) or 1-855-5726632. If you're in the Philippines, you may contact us at (+632) 848 5100 For other countries, please visit www.alveoland.com Or email us at info@atAyala.com

ou are stirred awake by chirping birds and a warm shaft of gentle sunlight peering into your scenic picture window. Cracking open the blinds, you find kids frolicking in the verdant, sprawling green below. Your belly gently rumbles, beckoning for sustenance, and you find yourself in the mood for a bit of al fresco indulgence just below your upscale haven in the sky. Fortunately, there are quaint bistros and dining options facing a lush and vibrant park setting that offer you just that. On weekends, this piece of parkside paradise is also a community market of eclectic finds and sumptuous delicacies. All this will just be but a skip and a short elevator ride from where you stand—a new signature address offering classic and iconic parkside living coupled with sweeping views of nature and the ambiance of a warm and vibrant neighborhood. That’s when the realization hits you. You’re not in some faraway suburban enclave; you’re right in the heart of Makati City—the country’s premier financial center. Incredibly, you are both in the middle of the action, yet curiously isolated from the hubbub and bustle of city life. Improbable, yes; impossible, no. Imagine life at Escala Salcedo, Alveo Land’s latest 36-story signature residential condominium set to rise amid this unique slice of paradise. Master planned and executed by Alveo Land, this innovative park-front address also boasts its own complement of high-end designer amenities—conveniences and thoughtful touches that you’d expect from this leading developer. Plus, the joys of being neighborly come naturally within the protective, warm enclave of Salcedo Village. Escala Salcedo will be located along L.P. Leviste (Alfaro) and San Agustin Streets and, of course, right in front of the Jaime C. Velasquez (Salcedo) Park. Future residents will benefit greatly from the low-density feel enhanced by unobstructed views of a thriving cityscape in the heart of Salcedo Village. Escala Salcedo is distinctly designed to take advantage, nay, heighten the feel of upscale park-side living through well-appointed and spacious condominium units (limited to a mere 10 per typical floor) made with high-quality finishes. The structure itself showcases art deco-inspired designs—executed with prestige and flair reminiscent of the landmark 5th Avenue Rockefeller Center towers of New York City. Breathing a distinctly sophisticated charm combined with the area’s unique atmosphere and the hallmarks of its cutting-edge classically inspired architectural design, Escala Salcedo will provide its homeowners with a remarkably timeless living experience. Rounding out the impeccable experience are responsive and efficient condominium management services, courtesy of Ayala Property Management Corporation (APMC). Making this property doubly valuable is its aforementioned close proximity to key destinations of work, play, and leisure—particularly the Makati Central Business District, still the choice address of big-league corporations and international conglomerates. Ayala Land (which owns 100 percent of Alveo Land) has a standing commitment worth P60 billion to redevelop Makati City through infrastructure developments, the rise of six-star hotels, an upgrading of Ayala Center malls, and continued pedestrianization efforts—serving to further boost Makati’s reputation as the ideal location to answer the needs of a highend contemporary urban market. With Salcedo Village being a core residential hub in Makati City, future homeowners of Escala Salcedo will greatly benefit from all the cosmopolitan and urban conveniences of this world-class city just a heartbeat from where they live. Indeed, where else can you get the best of both worlds—with a rare piece of breathable open space in the middle of it all? Escala Salcedo by Alveo Land is the definitive and decisive real estate solution that promises exactly that. OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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The Country’s Premier Entertainment District www.makeitmakati.com/circuit-makati

rich heritage in spectacle, sport, and community. The nation’s unrivaled capital. Ayala Land unites Makati City’s past and future through an evolving entertainment district—retail, residential, work, and leisure environments enlivened by cultural, art, and performance experiences ranging from intimate to epic. Call it hotspot, call it home. Welcome to Circuit Makati. A GLORIOUS HERITAGE 1900s. The outlying district of Makati was a haven of entertainment where pre-war and post-war high society gathered to party and have a good time. Its flagship venue, the Sta. Ana Cabaret, the largest in the world, hosted glamorous affairs with “the best dance music in the orient”. Moving with the times, the cabaret evolved into the iconic horse racetrack that excited racing aficionados throughout the nation. Life progressed this way for many years, until the racetrack moved to a new home in 2008. But this was not the end of the bright lights and thrilling atmosphere in this locale. The curtain rises on a new era of performance, gathering, and celebration. MAKATI’S LIFESTYLE PLAYGROUND As one of the districts in Makati’s citywide renaissance spearheaded by Ayala Land, this 21-hectare parcel of land will eventually transform into Circuit Makati, the country’s premier entertainment district. Keeping true to its historical value, Ayala Land is developing this new district, bringing back the energy that once captured a generation. Rising from the former racetrack with spectacular boardwalk views is the Globe Circuit Event Grounds. A partnership with Globe Telecom, this 2,000sqm. canopy area with extended open grounds can host up to 20,000 people and is set to be a preferred venue for concerts, festivals, and fashion shows. The Circuit Performing Arts Theater, a 1,500-seater indoor venue is envisioned to provide a compelling theatrical experience with a superior entertainment system. Retail concepts at the interactive Circuit Lane will engage denizens with an enhanced shopping experience through digital displays and mobile devices. It will span the entire length of the district, highlighted by a distinct and breathtaking water feature. In a few years, Circuit Makati will be an urban hub for family entertainment bringing together Ayala Malls for commercial spaces, Ayala Land Businesscapes for offices, Ayala Hotels and Resorts for leisure accommodations, and Alveo Land for residential communities. At the heart of Makati’s lifestyle playground, Solstice will ascend as the landmark residential community in Circuit Makati. Homeowners will benefit from a multifaceted fun living experience, a single bound from Makati’s urban landscape. Offering dynamic venues for leisure and lounging around, Solstice’s abundant amenities include a bamboo garden, juice bar, lap pool, and an outdoor gym. With space-efficient units, contemporary design, and sustainable features, Alveo Land’s first vertical village in Circuit Makati is a surefire scenestealer. Entertainment destinations for the whole family are just a few blocks from home. At the heart of Circuit Makati, a glorious heritage comes back to life where something amazing’s always on. For more information please contact us at our Toll Free Numbers: If you're in the US call 1-855-MYAYALA (1-855-6929252) or 1-855-5726632. If you're in the Philippines, you may contact us at (+632) 848 5100 For other countries, please visit www.alveoland.com or email us at info@atAyala.com OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Create a Vibrant Life Here www.avidaland.com/Avida-towers-asten.php

he dynamic lifestyle and creative aspirations of the millennial generation’s young savvy achievers came to life in a vibrant play of colors at the grand launch of Avida Towers Asten, Avida Land’s highrise residential development which will soon emerge in the thriving business and cultural district of West Makati. The Avida Towers Asten launch showcased an “art buffet” featuring furniture art displays by House of Leoque, fashion styling by John Lozano, and food art created by Chef Nino Logarta. Aptly titled “The Vibrant Lifestyle of Asten,” the event was hosted by actor-comedian Eri Neeman and featured performances by singer-songwriter Zia Quizon and violinist Princess Ybanez. The launch event effectively communicated the entertainment and culture scene of Makati, which is the inspiration behind the edgy modern design and special amenities of Avida Towers Asten. With Makati being a trophy address for active young achievers who want to have full access to the premier city’s colorful way of life, Avida Towers Asten is indeed the perfect residential choice because it offers not just close proximity to the Makati Central Business District; it is envisioned to have a dynamic mix of retail and dining options that cater to the needs and aspirations of the passionate millennial crowd. Conveniently located along Yakal and Malugay Streets in San Antonio Makati, Avida Towers Asten is a masterplanned three-tower development with spacious units and amenities especially designed to complement the dynamic lifestyle and interests of young professionals. Tower 1 features 644 studio, 1BR, 2BR units and special 2BR and 3BR Bi-level units, a plaza or promenade, unique concept retail dining and shopping area at the ground floor, and amenities that include an indoor gym, sky lounge, game room, clubhouse, swimming pool and pool lounge. As in all of Avida Land’s condominium properties across the country, Avida Towers Asten adheres to the Five Condo Must-Haves of free-flowing air and sunlight, fewer units per floor, sensible amenities, emergency power even inside the units, and easy payment terms. Avida Towers Asten will be managed by the Ayala Property Management Corporation (APMC). For homebuyers who choose to rent out their units, Leasing Services by Avida (LSA) will be on hand to provide assistance. For more information please contact us at our Toll Free Numbers: If you're in the US call 1-855-MYAYALA (1-855-69 29252) or 1-855-57 26632 If you're in the Philippines, you may contact us at (+632) 848 5200 For other countries, please visit www.avidaland.com. Or email us at info@atAyala.com

ABOUT AVIDA LAND

An Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) subsidiary, Avida Land provides thoughtfullydesigned yet affordable homes in secure communities that offer value for money and convenience all within reach. With the f ive pillars of accessibility, unique features and amenities, quality assurance, stress free buying and relaxing living experience integrated in all its condominium and house and lot properties, Avida Land has become the developer of choice among the rising middle class as it continues to expand its product offerings across the country. OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

Above the Ordinary www.avidaland.com/Avida-woodhill-settings-nuvali.php

njoy the best of Mother Nature and the convenience of city living at Avida Woodhill Settings NUVALI. People dream of retiring by the countryside, content to sit out the rest of their days with a light breeze, warm sunshine, enveloped by a gentle feeling of peace and quiet. Urban dwellers, most especially, fantasize about living in quiet harmony with nature, away from the chaos of the city. At Avida Woodhill Settings NUVALI, you can definitely do all that and more. THAT SPECIAL SOMETHING An extraordinary living experience awaits you at Avida Woodhill Settings NUVALI. Its appeal is rooted in its prime location—being the highest point among all Avida developments in NUVALI provides you with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Tagaytay Ridge, Mt. Makiling, and Laguna de Bay, right at your doorstep! With nature as your backdrop, every moment with your loved ones in this secure neighborhood is sure to be picture-perfect and memorable. ONE WITH NATURE Learn to be an early riser to be able to fully appreciate and witness the stunning view of the sun rising behind Mt. Makiling. Let the sun’s gentle morning rays stream in, swathing your home in warm, natural sunlight. You and your family are sure to wake up in a good mood with such welcoming conditions. And as day turns to night, sit back and relax with a glass of wine or your favorite drink and bask in the changing colors of the sky. After a filling dinner, you and your family can enjoy the rest of the night in peace until bedtime— when you’re guaranteed to have a good night’s sleep, as Avida Woodhill Settings NUVALI is a safe and secure sanctuary, away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. Don’t limit your “nature” moments to just indoors, though. Take full advantage of Woodhill Settings’ spacious open areas and vast expanse of foliage. Go for a jog, a stroll, or picnics with family and friends. Being one with nature has never been this blissful. CLASSIC, CONTEMPORARY, AND CONVENIENT You need not fret about leaving the conveniences of city living behind, as Avida Woodhill Settings NUVALI is located within NUVALI Sta. Rosa. It is approximately 40 kilometers or 50 minutes away from Makati; from Alabang, approximately 25 kilometers or 30 minutes. Access to NUVALI is through the Mamplasan, Sta. Rosa, or Eton City exits, while Avida Woodhill Settings is nearest to the Canlubang exit. Woodhill Settings is also a stone’s throw away from the Republic Wake Park, Miriam College, and a planned commercial area, so you don’t have to venture out or make a long sojourn just to feel the cosmopolitan convenience. What’s more, Woodhill Settings is poised to be a community featuring moderncontemporary designed houses for you and your family’s utmost comfort. More than three hectares are allotted for an amenity area that will boast of a clubhouse, a function room, adult and kid’s swimming pools, a children’s play area, a garden, a basketball court, and even jogging trails for the health-conscious and fitness enthusiasts. Come and let yourself and your loved ones experience a comforting and fulfilling way of life at Avida Woodhill Settings NUVALI. For more information please contact us at our Toll Free Numbers: If you're in the US call 1-855-MYAYALA (1-855-69 29252) or 1-855-57 26632 If you're in the Philippines, you may contact us at (+632) 848 5200 For other countries, please visit www.avidaland.com. Or email us at info@atAyala.com

OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Cover Story

NATURE AND ART AS DEPICTED BY RENOWNED ARTISTS IN UNVEILING OF NUVALI’S OUTDOOR ART SCULPTURES UVALI, Ayala Land’s 2,290 hectare integrated ecocommunity held a monthlong program in August called Greenstallations that aims to celebrate and promote sustainable way of living through art. Owing to its commitment to economic, social and environmental sustainability, NUVALI via Greenstallations sets out to promote a deeper appreciation for the arts through outdoor art installations. The artists who took part in it comprise a formidable league. Armed with a degree in Architecture from the Technological Institute of the Philippines, scrap metal artist Mario Mallari, Jr. creates things of extraordinary beauty and splendor with the use of seemingly insignificant materials like scrap metal. His design for Greenstallations called “The Last Tree” is representative of his design trademark as it is made from found metal assemblage. The second artist in the roster is Juan Carlo Calma, an architect who took up sculpture, painting, and light design at California College of Arts and Crafts in San Francisco and has held art and architecture exhibits in San Francisco, London, and Manila. Calma’s Greenstallations contribution is aptly named “Flower Primitive” as it resembles a cluster of gigantic red blooms. Created out of materials like Thick Mild Steel Sheet, welded in Anzhal Red Glossy Reflective Finish, the sculpture’s seemingly soft and pliant sheets of metal are formed into delicate flowers that gracefully blend and complement the 28

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featured in solo exhibits in the Philippines, the United States and Singapore. Cacnio used Welded Brass for his Greenstallations design named “Luksong Lubid” that is a homage to a good old Filipino game. Last but not the least is Eduardo Castrillo. Best known for his metal creations, particularly in brass and bronze, Castrillo’s resume includes the Paris Biennial in 1971, ‘La Pieta’ (also in 1971) at the Loyola Memorial Park and the ‘People Power’ monument (1993) on EDSA. Made of brass, Castrillo’s art piece is called “Community of Creation,” a depiction of the dynamics of creative minds coming together and working as one. The Outdoor Art Sculptures launch jumpstarted a series of events that highlight the importance of integrating art in everyday life. To remind us that there is always something from nature to feed our senses, NUVALI continuously pushes that every day is Earth day. In line with this commitment, August 17 marked the “Greenification of NUVALI” as more art installations transformed its landscapes into a living and breathing art exhibit. Indeed, nature and man are one. Our daily lives are anchored in the wonders and marvels of Mother Earth. Through NUVALI’s efforts in integrating arts and environment, we can contours of the contemporary landscape. feel the presence of nature in our lives. Join Michael Cacnio is a 1996 Ten Outstanding us in making every day Earth day in NUVALI. Young Men (TOYM) Awardee who has For more details on NUVALI, visit www. made a name for himself for his figurative nuvali.ph or follow us on Facebook (www. brass sculptures that pay tribute to nature and facebook.com/Nuvalioff icial) and Twitter (@ traditional Filipino scenes. His works have been Nuvalioff icial)

For more information please contact us at our Toll Free Numbers: If you're in the US call 1-855-MYAYALA (1-855-6929252) or 1-855-5726632 If you're in the Philippines, you may contact us at (+632)OCTOBER 403 7644 & NOVEMBER 2013 For other countries, please visit www.amaialand.com. Or email us at info@atAyala.com

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Investing

The

Way of Investing in Professor Enrique M. Soriano is the Program Director for Real Estate and Chair of the Marketing Cluster at the ATENEO Graduate School of Business.

uying a house or a condo in our home country can be an investment of a lifetime more so for Filipinos residing in overseas. During hard times, first-time investors must be very careful in their choice of real estate asset, taking into account all known factors to ensure the investment will generate substantial returns in terms of value, security, and comfort for you and your loved ones. For overseas-based Filipinos, the hands down choice outside Metro Manila is Cebu. Cebu City is modern and very cosmopolitan! It has all the trimmings of a modern city yet retains its old world charm. A slew of 5 star resorts and wonderful beaches are within reach. A short 30-minute ride takes you to world-class hotel brands like Shangri-La Resort and Movenpick Hotels in Mactan and dozens of equally luxurious and locally managed hotels. Not contented with the resorts in Mactan, you can always hop into a ferry and take a 1-hour boat ride to Bohol Island, another world-class destination and home to the world famous Chocolate Hills and the Philippine Tarsier (Carlito syrichta), one of the smallest primates in the world. LOOKING FOR THE BEST REAL ESTATE DEAL Before calling a real estate agent or property developer, make sure that you have figured out what you want to have for a place to call home. Although the right agent might help you out, it won’t hurt if you list down a set of requirements to mark out exactly what you are looking for. After all, the final decision still rests in your hands. Just like any other service provider, professional real estate agents are expected to give or have a way of getting all information you will need to arrive at the best possible choice. As seasoned brokers, they anticipate and welcome your inquiries in order to help them single out the house of your dreams. Drawn from their vast experience in dealing with diverse homebuyers and investors, they share the same desire—that is to find the right asset for investors —they also provide first-time buyers with valuable pointers in order to facilitate the decision making process: Established the reason why you want to invest in a Cebu property. Is it for you or for relatives living in the country? Is it primarily for investment? Are you thinking of replacing your ancestral home? Will it be a half way house located in Cebu so you have a place to stay in the big city? Is it a future retirement home? Identify what kind of house you actually have in mind. Does a condo unit appeal to you? Or you still opt for a single detached dwelling? How big is your ideal place? How many bedrooms? Do you

need a parking area? Locational qualities such as a shopping mall or hospital? A playground for your grandchildren? Unique Value of the Project. What does the property or condo offer? What is a compelling value that fits right into your requirement as a homebuyer. If you are a newly married couple and is contemplating on having kids in a year, should you invest on a child-friendly project? (See picture) Or if you are a baby boomer (Born after WWII) thinking of retirement, are the facilities for senior couples sufficient. Ascertain your personal preference. Would it matter if you move in to a slightly used home? Or would you rather have a brand-new house? Do you prefer American, Modern Asian or oriental designs? Know your budget. What type of condo can your budget afford? Does it allow you to pay in cash or do you need to avail of the installment terms? Are there in-house financing terms offered by the seller/developer? Is it possible to get a housing loan from a bank? Are you buying a pre-developed property? Identify the services and facilities accessible in the area. Are there good schools, parks/playgrounds, and clinics/hospitals? Are there also groceries/supermarkets and place of worship in the vicinity? Find out if the site has easy access to public transport. Are there alternate routes to important places (hospitals, church, schools) during peak hours and/or in case of emergency? Are their public utility vehicles servicing the area? Learn and do additional research about the real estate agents, developers and contractors that are constructing the properties. Do they have successful track records? Are they leaders in the industry? Do they have a record or history of poor customer service? The best source of information to complete your research would be the HLURB (Housing and Land Use Regulatory Bureau) and the local Real Estate sellers. Get to know more about the neighborhood. What are the government and social civic-group active in the community? Is it a flood-prone area? Is transportation available 24/7? How about its crime incidence rate? Who are the prominent figures living in the neighborhood? Admittedly, with a lot of considerations in mind, it is hard to get all the things you require. In some instances you will need to sacrifice one just to get the other, or vice versa. With the help of relatives in the Philippines, make sure that you obtain all the information you want to know and at least most of the things you’ve set are certainly met before you make your final decision. Otherwise, your dream home would turn out to be your worst nightmare. for comments, please email at sorianoasia@gmail.com

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Stay connected.

Print. Online. Mobile.

Los Angeles. Orange County & the Inland Empire. Northern California. Las Vegas. New York & New Jersey. The Philippines. OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Business

The Philippines Startup Report The World Startup Report documents the world's startup ecosystems through its series of reports that detail the local culture, trends, key players and challenges of a specif ic country. Its 2013 report on the Philippines yielded some very interesting insights. The report began with an overview of reasons why the Philippines would be a great place to launch a startup company. These reasons include the country's economy being the fastest growing one in Asia, the investment grade ratings awarded in 2013 from Standard & Poor's, Japan Credit Ratings Agency, and Fitch, the low operating cost here, our English speaking, western-minded population, who are also very heavy social media users, and last but not the least, the large local market with very minimal competition. The report went into deeper detail about the different characteristics of the Philippines as a country.

ECONOMIC PROFILE Philippine population is at 107.5 million at present, with a 7.8% GDP growth, a median age of 23 years, and 76% of the population under 40 years old. THE SMARTPHONE REVOLUTION We've had quite a growth in smartphone usage at 34%, compared to 28% in the United States, and 31% in China. However, we have a smaller percentage of mobile internet usageâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;3.4%, which is miniscule when compared to the 81% of the United States. SOCIAL CREATURES According to Jon Russel of asiancorrespondent.com, "Social networking is so popular among Filipinos, the country has been nicknamed The Social Networking Capital of the World." Indeed, 93.9% of Filipino internet users are on Facebook, while Americans clock in at only 53.8%. We have an 83% social media penetration, while the US is only at 49%. Prior to Facebook, Filipinos bagged the top place as the country that sent the most SMS messages per capita in the world. In fact Facebook tops the list of websites most often visited by Filipinos. It is followed by Youtube, Google, Yahoo and Blogger. For the rankings of the local sites, Sulit.com, a classified ads site is at first place. It is followed by MetroDeal.com (daily deals site), AyosDito. com (classifieds), and Inquirer.net and AB-CBNnews.com which are both news sites.

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WHO'S WHO IN PHILIPPINE STARTUPS Current movers in the startup industry include Rappler.com, a social news website, AyosDito.com for classfied ads, MetroDeal for daily dose of deals, Lazada.com which is like Amazon, Zalora.com, a Zappos clone, and CashCash Pinoy another daily deals website. STARTUP PROFILES The founders of startup companies come from the three major cities in the Philippines: Manila, Cebu, and Davao. 57% of these startups are new, while 30% are adapted to the local market, and 13% are clones of other startups. The most common startup companies are e-commerce or social entrepreneurship ones. The platform is still overwhelmingly mobile phones at 48%. Startups are primarily self-funded, with 65% of the founders being Filipinos, while only 22% are foreign, and the remaining 13%â&#x20AC;&#x201D;balikbayans or Filipinos who studied abroad. 38% of startup founders are 26-30 years old, 24% at the 31-35 range, and 22% at the 21-25 age range. THE MARKET The retail market is at an estimated $230 billion, and 95% of the e-commerce is comprised of airline travel bookings. 40% of Filipinos access the internet to shop, and out of these, 64% have purchased online in the last three months. The top e-commerce sites are Ebay Philippines, sulit.com, MetroDeal.com, Cebu Pacific (airline company), Ensogo (deals), and Amazon.

What has helped the e-commerce industry greatly, is the advent of the 4G and LTE networks and the proliferation of smart phones. However, the biggest obstacles still are payments, logistics, and consumer trust. PAYMENT SYSTEMS Compared to the high credit card usage in countries like the United States, in the Philippines it is only 7% (7.36 million). Debit cards are more common, and it is at 33.7% (35.36 million). The remittance in the Philippines is $24.443 billion, and the country is the fourth largest remittance receiving market in the world, just behind China, India, and Mexico. E-commerce payments are still primarily transacted via credit card, while Paypal, DragonPay, and over the counter payments through 7/11, pawnshops, and banks are still very much in practice. With the countries' 7000 islands, shipping outside of cities is still quite a challenge. PHILIPPINES OPPORTUNITY MAP The report also categorized the different types of websites available in the Philippines into their saturation stages. Deals (MetroDeal), Communication (Facebook, Viber, Whatsapp), Search (Google, Yahoo) are saturated. Listing (Sulit and Ayos Dito), Blogging, and Jobs sites (jobstreet, jobsdb) are mature, while Social News (Rappler, Reddit), and Community sites (PinoyExchange, Istorya.net) are semi-mature. Still at their infancy stage, are Music, Local Discovery, Music, Online Retail, Dating, Payment, Real Estate, Ticketing, Events, Finance, Networking, Rentals, Dining, Travel and Automotive. NOTABLE LOCAL INNOVATIONS Some examples of ingenious Filipino innovations include: Smrt Txtbks which uses inactive simcards to deliver electronic textbooks to students readable on any feature phone, Liter of Light, which utilizes a plastic bottle, water, and glue to light up homes without electricity, Bambikes, which are light, sturdy bikes with frames made out of bamboo, and Apptivate, which allows iPhone users buy iOS apps without a credit card. DOING BUSINESS HERE The report quotes a world bank report on how it is to do business here in the Philippines. It says: "While the Philippines continues to improve its macroeconomic environment and sets pace-setting growth in gross domestic product, it lags in the implementation of regulatory reforms that [make conducting businesses easier]" (from the Doing Business 2013 Report, World Bank). Some of the things that businesses need to know include the following: Government incentives-PEZA 100% corporate tax holiday for the first 4-6 years, tax and duty-free importation of equipment and parts, VAT exemption of local purchases, withholding tax exemption Government restrictions-60% local ownership and board control are required for certain industries (real estate, banking, press) Internet connectivity in the Philippines mostly works but at times becomes unreliable, and in terms of corruption, the Philippines ranks 105 out of 176 of the most corrupt countries in the world.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING Ateneo, La Salle, UP Diliman, and UST graduates are the best pool to hire from, however fresh graduates need substantial on-the-job training. Filipinos are creative, but work culture does not usually provide an outlet for creativity. There is also the brain-drain phenomenon, where Filipino workers opt to work abroad because of the higher pay. COST OF LIVING Ultra-modern areas such as Fort Bonifacio and Makati offer Western standard of living and amenities. Typical one bedroom skyrise/doorman building starts at $700 a month. Hiring a household staff is common and affordable (live-in maid or nanny is $150/month) Food is abundant and the options are varied. On the other hand, travel and transportation is a daily problem, as traffic jams are common in major roads. The cost of owning a car and driver in the country is pegged at $400 a month. THE COUNTRY'S BIGGEST ASSET The Philippines' biggest export is labor, and in fact, more than 10 million Filipinos work abroad. The total remittances from these overseas workers was at $21.3 billion last 2012—30% of the country's national export. Business Processes Outsourcing is a huge industry here in the Philippines. It is valued at $11 billion, and it constitutes 4 % of the GDP. 640,000 Filipinos are employed in these BPOs. MONEY HABITS AND MALL CULTURE Filipinos have a sort of One-Day-Millionaire mentality, where they "Earn today, spend today." Many Filipinos don't save or don't have bank accounts, and they prefer to purchase their goods in single serve packets. Small stores extend micro credit to customers. Three of Asia's 10 biggest shopping malls are in the Philippines. Filipinos frequent the malls to shop, to cool down with the airconditioning , use the free wifi and sometimes to shop. FAMILY TIES, AND A HISTORY UNDER SPAIN AND THE US Business is relationship-driven. In fact, majority of big businesses is family-owned. The country was a Spanish colony for more than 300 years, thus the many Spanish influences in food and culture. The Philippines is the only formal US colony in Southeast Asia, and so education and legal system are modeled after the US. English is widely spoken as a first or second language. CONCLUSION "The Philippine startups ecosystem is still in its infancy—funding is scarce, experienced talent is hard to find, payment, delivery, and internet infrastructure is poor. But for all these challenges, opportunities abound. The local market is big and competition is low. Widely spoken English and a super friendly culture makes the Philippines a great first base for startups aspiring to tackle Southeast Asia." —Ron Hose, lead author of World Startup Report.

INFRASTRUCTURE INFORMATION Power expenses in the Philippines is the highest among all the countries in Asia, at $.23 per kilowatt hour. Blackouts here happen every so often, but are usually isolated cases. As for water, 92 % of the population has access to improved water sources, but sewage and sanitation are still a challenge. Internet connectivity is widely available but not as efficient and reliable as in other countries, but we were among the first in Asia to use LTE.

Information in this report composed by LADY MAY MARTINEZ OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Inside The

Executive Room

Going Big Time with Martin Paz and Resorts World Manila’s Higantes-themed Grand Fiesta Manila

t’s no secret that something big is always cooking at Resorts World Manila (RWM). After all, with RWM’s marketing reins in the able hands of Chief Integrated Marketing Officer Martin Paz for the past two years, the first and only integrated lifestyle and entertainment hub in the Philippines has since established itself as the undisputed destination of choice for thrillseekers and families alike. Now, with the holiday season just around the corner, RWM takes things to a whole new level through its annual Grand Fiesta celebrations to herald in the Christmas festivities with a theme that squarely encapsulates its penchant for making everything big. Beginning as early as November and set to run all the way until December, RWM’s yearly Grand Fiesta Manila is considered to be the longest Yuletide festivity showcasing all sorts of world-class events and entertainment in the country. RWM will create a larger than life experience like no other and to do that, RWM will draw inspiration from one of the country’s most celebrated fiestas, the Higantes Festival of Angono, Rizal. Considered to be the country’s arts capital, Angono’s parade of giants is a

State Express 555, the biggest cigarette brand in the whole of Vietnam’s tobacco industry. This is where Martin established himself as a big time executive while expanding his network and increasing his earning power. Eager to broaden his horizons, Martin decided to return to the Philippines after a year in Vietnam and it wasn’t long before Hudson was calling again with yet another big opportunity. This time, one of the biggest global brands wanted Martin on board—and that brand was McDonald’s. He then signed on with Leo Burnett/Arc Worldwide in Shanghai where he served as Senior Brand Director for McDonald’s China until his wife became pregnant with their first child. It was this momentous chapter in Martin’s life that ultimately made him decide to relocate the family back to the Philippines where he thought it best to raise their firstborn. Upon returning, Martin was quickly hired by top agency DDB Worldwide, primarily owing to his previous experience handling the Smart Communications account during his FCB days. Two years later, Martin realized that he had already clocked up a total of 18 years working in advertising agencies and decided he was ready for a big change. Sure enough, the biggest opportunity he could have hoped for was just about to come knocking.

tradition rooted way back since the Spanish regime. Through the years, the practice has evolved to represent the festive and vibrant Filipino culture. Inspired by this fiesta, RWM is set to inject a dose of its signature flair to this tradition making for a truly thrilling and big holiday experience. Combining the grandeur of the Yuletide celebration with the immensity of the Higantes Festival, RWM is going to deck out the entire complex with oversized décor and feature massive parades within the complex. With Martin heading the marketing team behind Grand Fiesta’s Higantes theme, there certainly couldn’t be a better man for the job when it comes to going big time. Since joining RWM in 2011, his rise to one of the top posts in the company has been meteoric and the results have been tremendous. Suffice it to say, the road to RWM was indeed a long one and not without Martin’s fair share of advertising stints abroad and in the Philippines. His illustrious career started after graduating from University of Santo Tomas with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Arts and a major in Advertising/Marketing. He was soon hired by top advertising agencies like Ace Saatchi & Saatchi, where he handled big accounts like Jollibee Foods Corporation, Smirnoff Vodka, Evian Mineral Water, Collezione Apparel, Petron, and Ayala Land Inc. This first encounter with the world of advertising was soon followed by a five-year stint with Foote Cone & Belding (FCB) Advertising before an even bigger opportunity came knocking. Hudson, a headhunting agency based in Singapore, soon phoned Martin with an offer bigger than his wildest dreams. The position was for Senior Account Director for 141 Worldwide in Vietnam and the account was none other than

After spreading the word to his network of contacts that he was looking for something different, it wasn’t long before the perfect opportunity presented itself. As luck would have it, his former DDB colleagues had formed their own advertising company called 7AD which happened to be Resorts World Manila’s go-to ad agency. Through this simple twist of fate, Martin was promptly introduced to the head honchos at RWM who happened to be looking for a senior marketing person. This is where all of Martin’s blood, sweat, and tears through the years paid off as after a series of interviews with the RWM’s bigwigs, it was decided that Martin perfectly fit the bill and was soon hired as VP for Marketing—his biggest role to date. “Throughout my career, I have always been on the other side of the game,” explains Martin. “I was always the one representing advertising agencies, working with ad producers, account planners, and creatives. But now, with Resorts World Manila, it’s a different ballgame. I’m actually running the show in a way. After all these years of representing agencies, this time I’m the client and I owe a lot of that to my background with different advertising firms,” he added. The rise and rise of Martin from advertising executive to expatriate to big boss at Resorts World Manila truly is a testament to how hard work with a little serendipity can go a long way. Translating his huge achievements and applying it to the Higantes-themed Grand Fiesta Manila, Martin’s directive is to basically make everything big. From streaming tassels, huge lanterns and a gigantic Christmas Tree, Resorts World Manila will boast never before seen visuals and designs that utilize state-of-the-art technology capturing the vibe of what a truly thrilling Christmas should be.

This is where all of Martin’s blood, sweat, and tears through the years paid off as after a series of interviews with the RWM’s bigwigs, it was decided that Martin perfectly f it the bill and was soon hired as VP for Marketing—his biggest role to date.

SPECIAL BUSINESS PROFILE / PHOTOGRAPHED BY NOEL TY 36

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Real Estate

he sterling performance of the Philippine economy has ushered the emergence of new proper ty developments to respond to the nation’s upward growth and rising demands. Top real estate developers have thus cast their sights on key cities in Metro Manila, to raise developments wor thy of 21st century cosmopolitan living. Megaworld, the country’s premier residential condominium developer ERH &43 SJ½GI PERHPSVH MW EX XLI JSVIJVSRX SJ XLI MRHYWXV] ;MXL ER impressive (and unequaled) por tfolio of more than 305 completed projects, the company is transforming the metropolitan landscape. Not only does Megaworld hold the biggest land bank with the best strategic placement in Metro Manila, it uses this land for the cultivation of some of the metro’s premier lifestyle townships. The company’s “LIVE-WORK-PLAY-LEARN-SHOP” lifestyle concept, EW WIIR MR XLI GSYRXV]´W ½VWX -8 TEVO )EWX[SSH 'MX] LEW TVSZIR MXWIPJ E successful formula. This has been replicated in the townships of Newport 'MX] LSQI XS 6IWSV XW ;SVPH 1ERMPE MR 4EWE] ERH EPWS MR 1ERLEXXER +EVHIR 'MX] PSGEXIH MR 'YFES 7SSR XS NSMR XLIWI GSQQYRMXMIW [MPP FI XLI 1EGXER 2I[XS[R MR 'IFY ERH XLI -PSMPS &YWMRIWW 4EVO This time, the For t will experience the world class community produced by this winning formula, on a higher scale. Megaworld at the Fort replicates its blueprint within its township proper ties—Forbes Town 'IRXIV 1G/MRPI] ,MPP ERH 9TXS[R &SRMJEGMS°[MXL EHHMXMSREP IPIQIRXW XS ½X 1ERMPE´W RI[IWX '&( 7XVEXIKMG PSGEXMSR KPSFEP MRWTMVEXMSR MRXIPPMKIRX HIWMKR TVS½XEFPI investment, and complete community. These elements together

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consolidate the townships developed by Megaworld as premier real estate choices. The Fort comprises the focal point of Megaworld’s latest ventures as a truly global city with extensive growth potential, increasing property values and unlimited opportunities. The area offers world class healthcare ERH IHYGEXMSR [MXL 7X 0YOI´W +PSFEP 'MX] ERH XLI MRXIVREXMSREP WGLSSPW SJ XLI 97 &VMXEMR .ETER 'LMRE ERH /SVIE %PWS EZEMPEFPI EX XLI *SVX EVI XLI ½RIWX HMRMRK RMKLXPMJI ERH PY\YV] STXMSRW 1ERMPE LEW XS SJJIV % JIEWX JSV XLI senses at every stop, the Fort boasts endless restaurant choices including Wild Flour, Sunshine Kitchen, Aracama and Mamou. Manila’s hottest bars ERH RMKLXGPYFW REQIP] 4VMZq -QTIVMEP (VEJX 96&2 ERH ,]ZI EW [IPP EW XLI GMX]´W QSWX I\GPYWMZI GSYRXV] GPYFW 1ERMPE 4SPS 'PYF ERH 1ERMPE +SPJ 'PYF GER SRP] FI JSYRH LIVI 0EWXP] ]SY [MPP ½RH XLI [SVPH´W XST FYWMRIWW ERH GSQQIVGMEP IWXEFPMWLQIRXW´ LIEH SJ½GIW ERH TVIQMIV FVERGLIW MR XLI vicinity. It is no question that the For t is the future of Metro Manila. The townships of Megaworld at the Fort adhere to international standards and push forward the boundaries of what is locally available. Inspiration is taken from around the globe and is incorporated into Megaworld’s designs to bring those world-class elements to Manila in a way that works with the local dynamic. The country’s economy is taking SJJ ERH MX MW ETX XS ½REPP] FEWO MR ½VWX [SVPH WXEXYW XLVSYKL HIZIPSTQIRXW such as these. Megaworld’s superior location and design elements, coupled with its complete and holistic lifestyle concept, make for smart investments with assured value appreciation. Its townships at the Fort are tailor-made to accommodate the modern lifestyle, offering the utmost of 21st century community.

OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Real Estate

8,) *%')7 3* 09<96= Y\YV] VIEGLIW RI[ LIMKLXW EX 9TXS[R Bonifacio, Megaworld’s newest township in The For t. This 15-hectare community will be the grounds for all new residential condominiums and mixed use business and commercial developments optimally designed for cosmopolitan living. With a location fitting to the elite of one of Asia’s JEWXIWX EHZERGMRK GMXMIW 9TXS[R &SRMJEGMS MW [IPP placed to cater to the fast paced lives of today’s young professionals and growing families alike. In XLI LIEV X SJ &SRMJEGMS +PSFEP 'MX] XLI XS[RWLMT [MPP FI [MXLMR XLI ZMGMRMX] SJ WIZIVEP SJ XLI RI[ '&(´W TSTYPEV PERHQEVOW WYGL EW *SVFIW 8S[R 'IRXIV &YVKSW 'MVGPI XLI 1MRH 1YWIYQ &SRMJEGMS ,MKL Street, and the For t Strip. First class health care and education will never be far with St Luke’s Medical 'IRXIV ERH XLI MRWXMXYXMSREP ^SRI QIVI JSSXWXITW away. Within the township is a complete community of its own. Live luxuriously in the residencIW SJ 9TXS[R &SRMJEGMS [SVO MR XLI XST KVEHI SJJMGI WMXIW ERH TPE] EX XLI LMKL IRH GSQQIVGMEP center at your doorstep. The township undeniably provides the foundations of a cosmopolitan lifestyle while also affording residents comfor table abodes that successfully eliminate those pereniEP TVSFPIQW SJ XLI QIXVS 9TXS[R &SRMJEGMS RSX only upholds international standards of living, but introduces to Manila different faces of luxury to suit the tastes of the privileged.

Nature’s Face Of Luxury EXYVI MW XLI HVMZMRK MRWTMVEXMSR FILMRH 3RI 9TXS[R Residence. A 35 to 44 storey building offering 1 to 4 bedroom units, the residence is designed with several green features that celebrate a strong commitment to the environment. The elegantly wrought glass and aluminum exterior of One 9TXS[R 6IWMHIRGI JIEXYVIW E QIXIV WXSVI] [EXIV GEWGEHI and man-made lagoon. In addition, the building is designed to include a green wall and several sky gardens that provide a VIJVIWLMRK HMZIVWMSR JVSQ XLI YVFERMÎH PSGEXMSR 8LIWI EPSRK with the building’s other comprehensive amenities serve to harQSRMÎ XLI WTMVMX SJ 1SXLIV 2EXYVI ERH XLI MRKIRYMX] SJ QER These include a swimming pool complex with an in-pool lounge ERH [SSHIR WYRHIGO E ÎR KEVHIR ER EPJVIWGS PSYRKI E K]Q and aerobics room, a yoga room, indoor and outdoor play areas, a game room, a basketball cour t and multi-purpose function rooms. This interpretation of modernity seeks to inspire with its conservation of nature, and also to comfor t with its elegant design and WYVVSYRHMRKW 0MZI KVIIR ERH PMZI PY\YVMSYWP] EX 3RI 9TXS[R Residence, nature’s face of luxury.

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

The Glamorous Face Of Luxury LI SRP] EPP WYMXI EHHVIWW MR 9TXS[R &SRMJEGMS 9TXS[R 6MX^ MW XLI IQFSHMQIRX of glamour. A 45 storey condominium offering 2 to 4 bedroom units, each one is designed to accommodate the whims of opulence. With a grand lobby on the ground floor and low density large units occupying the residential levels, the 7th floor is dedicated to a bi-level amenity deck. Here you will find a swimming pool complex with an in-pool longe and wooden sundeck, a bi-level gym and nursery, a children’s play area, a business center and lastly, multi-purpose function rooms for the most glamorous social gatherings or corporate events. This interpretation of modernity is all about the KPMX^ ERH KPEQSYV MX MW EFSYX XLI I\GPYWMZI 4SWL PMZMRK LEW GSQI XS 1ERMPE 0MZI PEVKI EX 9TXS[R 6MX^ the metro’s glamorous face of luxury.

The Privileged Face Of Luxury LMVH SJ XLI PY\YVMSYW GSRHYQMRMYQW EX 9TXS[R &SRMJEGMS MW 9TXS[R 4EVOWYMXIW [LIVI TVMZMPIKI is put above all else. Standing at 50 storeys, the condominium offers 1 to 4 bedroom units and FSEWXW GSQTVILIRWMZI EQIRMXMIW XLEX TVMSVMXM^I comfor t to the utmost. A unique feature of this development, spacious and comfor table sky lounges are found on six of the residential levels. This allows residents to rest and relax in a serene enclave towering above the cityscape. Fur ther amenities are found on the 5th floor amenity deck that features wifi internet access. These amenities include a swimming pool and spa complex with an in-pool lounge and wooden sundeck, a meditation area, a reflexology walk, a gym and fitness center, an outdoor fitness area, a children’s playground and daycare, a game room, a picnic and hammock area, a dry garden, a reading nook, a business center, a laundromat and a multi-purpose hall with pre-function areas. This interpretation of modernity caters to those who appreciate all the best comfor ts the world has to offer. While the building itself houses comprehensive leisure features, the township offers the best of the cosmopolitan lifestyle with top international business and commercial establishments. 'SWQSTSPMXERMWQ LEW JSYRH E LSQI EX 9TXS[R 4EVOWYMXIW XLI privileged face of luxury.

FOR INQUIRIES: 815-1888 / 840-0602 0917-8878696 uptownbonifacio@megaworldcorp.com www.megaworldatthefort.com OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Real Estate

A Marriage Between the Elegance of the Mediterranean and the Dynamism of Manila taste of Europe in the tropics, Megaworld’s largest township development, McKinley Hill, is the perfect LIVE-WORK-PLAY-LEARN-SHOP community. With a land bank of 50 hectares (500,000sqm) in For t Bonifacio, the township’s LIVE element consists of 8 residential developments that span 34 residential towers, over 4,700 apar tments, and 482 residential lots. In addition, McKinley Hill has 15 office buildings with over 270,000sqm office space, 3 international schools, 3 foreign embassies and also an upcoming commercial center. To choose McKinley Hill is not merely a proper ty investment, but an investment in a complete and holistic lifestyle. Inspired by cities in Italy and Spain, McKinley Hill exudes FIEYX] GPEWW ERH IPIKERGI 9RMUYI MR 1ERMPE XLI XS[RWLMT´W Mediterranean design allows for a very relaxed and laid back atmosphere. The township, as a development from a single company, is master-planned to accommodate all the impor tant aspects of a holistic life. It borrows from the landscapes of Southern Europe and incorporates this into the South East Asian dynamic in a way that works. This is proven by the consistent value appreciation and profitability in the area. Megaworld has mastered the ar t of township development. &I E TEV X SJ XLMW GSQTPIXI GSQQYRMX] &EWO MR XLI EQFMIRGI of the Mediterranean while living out the dynamism of Metro 1ERMPE 'LSSWI HIZIPSTQIRXW XLEX [SVO [MXL ]SYV PMJIWX]PI 'LSSWI XS[RWLMTW XLEX MRWTMVI QSHIVRM^EXMSR

The Romance of Italy he world’s most romantic city, reinvented at McKinley Hill. The Venice Luxury Residences, inspired by its namesake, incorporates Venetian architecture and landscapes, including a grand canal that flows through the township center. The development consists of 7 towers, ranging from 22 to 31 storeys, and offering studio to 3 bedroom units. The Venetian inspiration takes root in the buildings’ exterior, resembling the shape of a ferro—a gondola’s uniquely shaped iron head. Each of the seven towers are also intricately built and embrased in lush greenery. This ambience continues inside where a grand lobby is complemented by high ceilings and tall glass cur tains. The 7 towers share a podium level amenity area that includes landscaped gardens (sculpture garden, rock garden, meditation garden, pocket garden and palm cour t), W[MQQMRK TSSP GSQTPI\IW [MXL E WTE WEYRE ERH NEGY^^M E K]Q ERH JMXRIWW WXEXMSR a tennis cour t, badminton cour ts, and a children’s playground. None will lack for inspiration or amusement in this development. The Mediterranean lifestyle celebrated in and out. Fall in love with the Venice.

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

Vital. Vibrant. Very You. oung and modern. These are the driving characteristics of the Viceroy, the newest executive residence conduminium in McKinley Hill. With 4 towers, each standing at 22 storeys and offering studio and 1 bedroom units, young professionals and star ting families can feel at home. This place is ideal for those with young souls, passionate minds and big dreams. Perfectly suited to cater to a holistic lifestyle, the development is equipped with a podium level amenity deck that includes the following: a swimming pool complex with an in-pool lounge and wooden sundeck, a gym and outdoor fitness station, a children’s playground and day care center, a clubhouse, cour tyard gardens, a laundromat and function rooms. 'LSSWI E LSPMWXMG PMJIWX]PI ERH IQFVEGI XLI ZMXEP XLI vibrant, the you—at the Viceroy.

Life is Beautiful he image of Europe has evolved over the ages. This idea is apparent in the Florence, McKinley Hill’s newest residential development. Named after an Italian city famed for its lush greenery, the Florence is the township’s first and only gated garden community. With 3 towers, ranging from 22 to 28 storeys and offering 1 to 3 bedroom units, The Florence diverges from all other residential developments at McKinley Hill by introducing a modern exterior façade. This development’s grey and white curvilinear façade stands out from the otherwise traditional European inspired architecture at 1G/MRPI] ,MPP 9TLSPHMRK XLI MHIE SJ QSHIVR PMZMRK MW XLI VH JPSSV FM level amenity deck which includes a swimming pool complex with an in-pool lounge and wooden sundeck, a bi-level gym and fitness center, an outdoor fitness area, a children’s playground and day care center, a game room, a business center, a bar & lounge, a laundromat, and function rooms. The Florence is unique in that each of its units offers at least 1 balcony at the living and dining area. The development also has loft units available. Its location in the township fur thermore makes it the most private residential condominium in McKinley Hill, surrounded by premier residential developments, the Stamford, Morgan, Viceroy and The Venice. With its contemporary design, its lush gardens, its private quality, and its comprehensive amenities, the Florence brings modern European living to Manila.

FOR INQUIRIES: 815-1888 / 840-0602 0917-8878696 mckinleyhill@megaworldcorp.com www.megaworldatthefort.com OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Discovery

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

Surviving Story / Photographs by REGINE RAFAEL

ot too many people have heard of the Caramoan Islands. Some know it as the remote paradise where seasons 25 and 26 of Survivor USA were filmed, but aside from that, zilch. Our beautiful country is comprised of 7,107 islands—there’s got to be more to the Philippines than commercialized Boracay (while still a blast) or ubiquitous Palawan (while still breathtaking), right? That’s where exploring unprecedented islands becomes more fun, proving that the Philippines never falls short on pleasant surprises. I jumped at the opportunity to take a trip with some girlfriends to explore Caramoan, a place I was extremely unfamiliar with. Adventure was out there and I could smell it. We hopped on a sleeper bus and took a nine-hour road trip down to Naga (you can take a plane too, don’t worry), a one-hour van ride to the port, and enjoyed a gorgeous view of Mount Mayon on our two-hour bangka ride to the island. Getting to Caramoan was an adventure in itself ! The exhaustion melted away completely, and the long hours of traveling were worth it once we started soaking in the most breathtaking view of Gota Beach. Filled with lush coastal mountains, fine white sand perfect for sinking your toes in, and surrounded by sparkling turquoise water, Caramoan is located in the lower eastern part of Camarines Sur, in Bicol. We stayed at Gota Beach, the same quaint cabins where Survivor housed their film crew. The cozy island vibe set the mood for the weekend, and despite the lack of sleep, we were thrilled to be breathing the deliciously salty ocean air. When staying at Gota Beach, be ready for adventure and activity. While relaxing is always a must on anyone’s beach vacation agenda, it’s essential to make the most of the trip and explore, too. Gota provides fun-filled activities to fill your days, all inclusive of your accommodation package. Start off your adventure-filled weekend with a mountain trek that ends with a stunning view of the blue ocean and its infinite rock formations. Turn the other way, and you’ll be hit with an incredible aerial view of Gota Beach’s quaint cottages and mountainous terrain. The trek itself isn’t too challenging—but prepare to feel like you’re about to do some slight rock climbing! You’ll end the trek dripping in sweat, but plunging into the ocean as soon as the trek is over will feel absolutely amazing. If mountain trekking isn’t enough to satisfy the adventure junkie in you, go spelunking! Caramoan has several caves (including bat caves!) visitors are free to explore, bringing out one’s inner adventure junkie extraordinaire. Spelunking is an awesome adrenaline pumping activity in itself. Trying to find your footing amidst the different sized rocks, and trying not to slip on bat poop is surprisingly thrilling. Who knew? Not to be outdone by land activities, there are lots of exciting water activities, too. Island hopping is a must, of course. Explore pristine, untouched islands like Tayak, Tinago, Honungan, Matukad, Minalahos, and Busdak island. Hop on a little bangka, pack some lunch and lots of drinking water, and visit each island for as long as you want. Bask in the scorching sun, revel in absolute silence, and truly make the most of the isolation. It really is good for the soul. Besides island hopping, go kayaking through Caramoan’s mangroves; take in nature’s raw beauty while gliding through the water. If island hopping, kayaking, and swimming in the ocean aren’t enough, get even more daring and go cliff diving off Caramoan’s limestone cliffs. Adventure is out there, and Caramoan has so much to offer in just a few short days. If you’re craving for something new, an experience that will open your mind even more, take a trip to the Caramoan Islands. I promise, you won’t regret it. OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Essence of Place

Palawan, Cebu, & Bohol Reasons enough to come home more often

Story / Photographs by RUBEN V. NEPALES

ipping fresh calamansi juice one morning, over a breakfast of daing na bangus and garlic rice at the terrace of Rocky’s Café & Bar in Makati’s The Rockwell Club, I thought, I could retire in the Philippines when the time comes. Or at least split my time between here and the U.S. I surprised even myself with this sudden thought. Was it because of the comforting company of family and friends as we enjoyed breakfast at a leisurely pace, a gentle breeze rustling through the terrace—so unlike the harried oatmeal eat-and-run rituals back in the States? I had been in the Philippines for several days on this recent trip home and I was liking everything more than I have in previous visits. Except for the traffic, of course—bad as it is on a regular day but worse when heavy rains fall. One night, we were stuck in traffic on Buendia Avenue for three hours. Fortunately, my wife and I were with two dear friends who happen to be from the U.S. too so we caught up with each other and traded jokes and stories in the car. No doubt, our extra appreciation of home was partly due to the place where we were staying – Joya Lofts and Towers in the Rockwell Center. A modern residential high rise, Joya offers 46

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privately owned, fully furnished units for lease with daily maid service. It’s conveniently located across the street from the Power Plant Mall, which has everything, from Starbucks for your favorite java fix, a supermarket with all the items that Ralphs or Vons carry plus more (gourmet goods – name it), shops and restaurants. Best of all, Joya has a friendly, courteous staff. I hoped that nothing would mar the rest of my homecoming, especially as I embarked on trips out of Metro Manila: Palawan, Bohol and Cebu. The journey to Palawan’s Lagen Island started on an auspicious note in the Island Transvoyager, Inc.’s private terminal and relaxing lounge near the domestic airport. After a quick hop on a bus and then onto a turbo prop aircraft, we were bound for Lagen Island, which is one of El Nido Resorts’ four destinations inBacuit Bay. Upon stepping off the plane at the El Nido airport, I saw a view that promised what natural grandeur awaited me in Lagen—a vast open sky, sea and mountains in the horizon. The boat ride by itself, offering glimpses of islands with spectacular limestone cliffs, swept away whatever remaining stress I had. Then Lagen Island came into view—its cottages over the water, on the beach or beside the lush forest making for quite a welcome sight.

OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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“Upon stepping off the plane at the El Nido airport, I saw a view that promised what natural grandeur awaited me in Lagen—a vast open sky, sea and mountains in the horizon. The boat ride by itself, offering glimpses of islands with spectacular limestone cliffs, swept away whatever remaining stress I had. “ 48

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The next couple of days felt like one wondrous dream filled with sights and moments that flash in my mind to this day. The view from my cottage’s veranda of the lagoon at dusk, in dramatic shades of blue, was impressive. Then there was the island hopping adventure with my group’s guide, Richard “Chado” delaCruz, the following day – kayaking in what the locals call the “small lagoon,” snorkeling in a coral grove and then just swimming or floating while taking in the view of the majestic blue bay and surrounding islands. The cruise through the “big lagoon” further proved why Bacuit Bay is often raved about as one of the last unspoiled Edens in this world (El Nido is doing its best to help protect the area, with its efforts led by the resorts’ director for sustainability, Mariglo “Marigs” Laririt). Then Chado brought us to El Nido’s two resorts, Miniloc and Pangulasian, each one distinct but, like Lagen, located in scenic natural settings. Seafood lunch at Miniloc made me want to linger but I had to hop back on the boat for the short ride to Pangulasian, El Nido’s highend destination. Luxurious villas (one had an ultra spacious bathroom that I wouldn’t mind sleeping in) with private pools dotted this resort. On my flight back to Manila, I thought that the ending scene in “The Bourne Legacy,” shot in Bacuit Bay with Jeremy Renner and Rachel

Weisz, offered only a tantalizing peek into the area. So much more natural beauty lay beyond that shimmering sea on the screen. On my first trip to Bohol, I took a Cebu Pacific morning flight to Tagbilaran. After a smooth hour and a half flight, I was aboard a van headed to the Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa in Panglaw Island, which is on the southernmost tip of Bohol. Winner of several awards, including the 2012 International Hotel Awards’ Best Resort Hotel-Philippines, Eskaya is a sprawling paradise of 15 private villas spread over 16 hectares. Most of the villas have their own pools but the main one, by the Lantawan restaurant, is gorgeous—the infinity pool, Bohol Sea and sky merge in one striking vista. Dinner on my first night was on the beach, with Eskaya’s charming Lim couple—Richard, chairman and CEO, and Phoebe, president. Amid torchlights, soothing sea breeze and a serenade by three guys singing Visayan classics, the dinner was memorable. After strolling on the white sand beach the following morning, I hopped again on the van to experience some of Bohol’s attractions: Philippine tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates, at the Tarsier Conservation Area; Simply Butterflies Conservation Center, an enchanting refuge of hundreds of these majestic winged creatures; the highly recommended Loboc River Cruise, a relaxing trip complete with a Filipino buffet and live music; the famed Chocolate Hills; and tours of beautiful Spanish era churches. Then it was back to Eskaya, which offers diving trips through Sunrise Reef Diveshop, located right in the resort and takes guests to Panglao island’s stunning dive sites. Eskaya is perfect as it is but the Lims plan to expand the resort. “The expansion project could still very well meet the concept of luxury with privacy, given the large extra space of the resort,” said sales and marketing director Ralph Lim. “The size of the existing villas and the upcoming ones is enough for one’s total relaxation. What the resort wants to achieve is to provide guests with more open space. We will build eight grand villas and a gym.” From Bohol, I took a ferry to Cebu, which I was also visiting for the first time. Boboi Costas, a travel writer and an advocate for sustainable and community-based tourism and heritage conservation, met me at the pier. I met him only through Facebook a few years ago but we clicked, probably because we are both writers. And there he was in person, ready to show me his native Cebu, all thanks to Facebook. Boboi, who worked and lived in Indonesia and New Zealand, is happily back home with his wife Rachel, racking up awards and achievements, especially in the name of eco-tourism. It was a whirlwind tour of Cebu in three days, a fascinating introduction to the Queen City of the South. I got to sample a different hotel on each of the three nights I was there: Marco Polo Cebu (over international buffet dinner, the best in town, I met the marketing staff, led by Lara Scarrow), Cebu Parklane Hotel and Plantation Bay Resort and Spa (regrettably, I did not have the time to enjoy its many attractions).

A different world awaits. 00 63 38 539 9231 thepeacockgarden.com

On a walk through the Ayala Mall for coffee and chat, I saw quite a number of expatriates, probably retirees enjoying a relaxed lifestyle in the Philippines. Refreshed after a good night’s sleep, I was ready to sample some of Cebu’s attractions. First stop was the Jose R. Gullas Halad Museum, which is musically themed and houses memorabilia of outstanding Cebuano composers and singers. Fittingly, the award-winning University of Visayas Chorale was in the house and performed songs, the choir’s glorious voices reverberating through the museum. I have to admit this balikbayan was moved to tears by the UV Chorale’s rendition of “Matud Nila,” right from the song’s first few notes. That’s how good this choir was. Lunch was at the Museo Parian sa Sugbu, an absolutely captivating place—imagine walking into a dark hardware warehouse and in the middle of it all, you see an ancient house with beckoning lantern lamps. It looked like a 50

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Hollywood set but it was for real. It is Jimmy Sy’s ancestral house which he discovered quite by accident was a Jesuit House that apparently was built in 1730. Jimmy and his family converted the house into a museum, a must-see stop that invited conversations about history and inevitably, intriguing ghost stories over lunch. Also very interesting was the Casa Gorordo, a rare remaining Spanish era “balay na tisa.” Stepping into this well-preserved residence of a Cebuano ilustrado family made me feel like a time traveler to 19th century Cebu. Then it was time to visit other premier attractions—Basilica del Santo Niño, Magellan’s Cross (Cebu’s landmark and symbol) and Fort San Pedro. Evening found me reunited with awardwinning filmmaker Joanna Vasquez Arong, who used to be based in Beijing and now, like Boboi, has returned home to Cebu. Joanna hosted a dinner at her striking modern house she built on a hillside in Maria Luisa Estate Park. Surrounded by her friends from Cebu’s film and media community, the director (I first met her in the Sundance Film Festival several years ago) certainly made a solid case for coming home for good. My last day was devoted to a trek outside the city for a change of pace. This included a visit to Carcar City to tour its magnificent St. Catherine of Alexandria Church which is more than 100 years old. Then it was onto a drive over the mountains to reach Aloguinsan, a hot new destination on Cebu’s southwest coast. Boboi, working closely with Aloguinsan’s municipal government, established the community-based Bojo Aloguinsan-Ecotourism Project in 2009. I had the pleasure of seeing up close the result, the restoration of Bojo river to its pristine state. Bojo village residents themselves manage the increasingly popular river cruise. Lunch was at a hut with a picturesque view of the river. The cruise through mangroves, with interesting bits about the area’s flora and fauna by a guide, is a new tourism must-do in Cebu. The river leads to the Tañon Strait, a national protected seascape where visitors can swim, snorkel or just take in the view. My group was taken by boat to the Kantobogon Beach, a serene, lovely beach where the villagers welcomed us with traditional songs and dances. While others took off again in the boat to snorkel, some of us stayed on the beach to enjoy quiet moments. Afterward, I hopped again on the boat to visit the town center of Aloguinsan itself. Mayor Cynthia Moreno met the group at The Farmhouse, another successful project she undertook with Boboi. Resident volunteers in The Farmhouse and in their respective backyards practice natural farming principles. The mayor served a sumptuous merienda cooked from ingredients from the farm, including tuba (coconut wine). Several rounds of tuba toasts capped the day. In the morning, on the flight back to Manila aboard Cebu Pacific, the exclamations of toast still rang in my ear, the mildly intoxicating and sweet taste of tuba still in my mouth. I resolved to come home more often.

OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

BALIKBAYAN MAGAZINE.COM

Explorer

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

Story / Photographs by STENO A. PADILLA

“...Whether it is a man-made structure or a masterpiece of Mother Nature, Ilocos always delivers. Everything has been well-kept despite the lusting of urbanization. It is rural, it is rustic, but it is progressive. It is one of those rare places in the world where man and nature have a mutual understanding, where the old and the new are in harmony, and where warmth, friendliness, and hospitality are part of its people’s DNA.”

ocos is a land of dichotomy. Geographically, you have the Sur (south) and the Norte (north) provinces lining the western face of the island of Luzon. It is also the meeting place of two imposing, natural elements—the Cordillera Mountains to the east and the West Philippine Sea. While traversing the Ilocos trail, one cannot help but take notice of and be mesmerized by the contrasts found in its surroundings. First, there are several man-made structures from ancient Philippines that have been preserved so well for present and future generations to enjoy. Second, many natural wonders lie in this place as proof that Mother Nature is one outstanding artist. For the creations of man, take Calle Crisologo in the city of Vigan, Ilocos Sur. Houses (or rather mansions) built during the Spanish colonization period are still standing today, having withstood several typhoons and earthquakes that are not uncommon in the country. This street is like a time machine as it instantly brings one back to the Spanish times hundreds of years ago. For Asian visitors, however, it is like a taste of Europe in Asia. Most, if not all, buildings here have two floors, and it will be noticed that the ground floor is built with sturdy stones, while the upper floor is usually made of thick wood. Spanish missionaries forced Filipino and Chinese workers to build them this way to stand strong against earthquakes, and it proved to be quite effective. Recognizing the creativity, culture, and architecture of the place, it was then declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. BANGUI WINDMILLS OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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To get a good fix of local culture, one can ride a horse-drawn carriage, or calesa, to move around the historical place and to see the exhibits in Burgos and Crisologo Museums. Outside Vigan, there is also the birthplace of a national hero and painter, Juan Luna, which has been renovated and turned into a museum. Some reproductions of his works are on display inside, together with his personal effects. Outside is a huge monument of the artist, which is a masterpiece in itself. There are a lot of old churches as well in the Ilocos Region that have been well-preserved, most of them still in use. Just a few kilometers from Calle Crisologo is the Bantay Church and Bell Tower, a structure made of bricks and a good place to get a 360-degree view of Vigan. There is also one found in Ilocos Norte, a two-hour drive from Vigan, which has been recognized as another world heritage site. Paoay Church, founded by the Augustinian Missionaries in 1593, is another part of local history that continues to live and touch the lives of the present generation. Its unique interpretation of the Baroque style by Filipino and Chinese craftsmen makes it one of the most significant cultural and architectural wonders of the world. It has also withstood the cruelties both of man and of Mother Nature. It was damaged by earthquakes in 1706 and, again, in 1927. It was also used in the revolution as an observation post by the Katipuneros, and by the Guerilleros during the Japanese occupation. The church has been rebuilt and renovated, proof that the people here value their history and culture. Not too far from Paoay Church is an unbelievable creation of nature that is very unlikely to be found in a tropical country like the Philippinesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the Paoay Sand Dunes. There are not too few sand dunes in Ilocos Norte, but the one in Paoay is the most idyllic, not to mention adventurous. In fact, it has been used several times as a location for local films, such as Himala and Panday, among others. This geographical spot is a wide desert with a breath-taking view of the ocean. It can be extremely hot in the afternoon and extremely cold at night. But what makes this place unique is how the locals have 54

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turned it from a barren wasteland into a wonderland. The Paoay Sand Dunes is not only a site for shooting films but also for those seeking adventure. Now, it offers a 4X4 ride that will rival rollercoasters found in huge theme parks, taking you down to some steep sand hills and other outrageous moulds. In the middle of the ride, there is an optional sandboarding activity for those who want more of the adrenaline rush. Beginners are likely to flop (and eat some dust), but it is safe. The sand is a perfect cushion for any fall. But not for falling in love. That job belongs to the sea. Since both Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte are situated on the northwestern part of the country and near the West Philippine Sea, all the coasts here face the sunset, ready to be marveled at twilight each and every day. Whether in Currimao, in Fort Ilocandia, or in Pagudpud, one is sure to witness the spectacular sunset by the beach. It is like those found in Manila Bay and in Boracay, but with lesser crowd and noise. The only sound you will hear here are the waves of the ocean or the beating of two hearts. Any couple can have the privacy that they want at this most romantic moment of the day. Even more, one does not have to go to an expensive resort to see this as shores in Ilocos are open and accessible to the public for free. Families usually go here early in the morning or late in the afternoon, just a few minutes before sunset, to have a picnic and enjoy some quality time with each other. Luckily, the coasts of Ilocos not only have the beautiful sunset but also some of the strongest and most consistent supply of wind in the country. Because of this, the local government decided to make use of this free source of sustainable energy and built windmills in Bangui and other surrounding towns. There are a total of 20 windmills standing right now, generating about 23 megawatts of electricity, but more are expected to be erected in the coming years. Apart from benefitting from cheap electricity, the locals here have also been lucky to make a living out of these windmills. These 56

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mega structures are a sight to behold, so people from all over the Philippines, and even in other countries, flock to Bangui to see them, making it an additional tourist attraction in the province. There is no entrance fee required, but the people here earn money by selling souvenir and food items. The wind and the sea have been too helpful to the people of Ilocos. The interplay of these natural entities has also created some of the most beautiful landscapes in the province. A perfect example of this is the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, where the constant clash of the waves and the wind has resulted in a geographical spectacle that is both gritty and sublime. Visitors have the option to explore the wide landscape by foot or by riding a horse. The curious minds will even find this place full of excitement, as it provokes questions of its origin or how it came to be. Just by looking at its geography, one can imagine the harsh forces of nature that sculpted the land. There are hills and cliffs that also resemble some of those found in Batanes, the northernmost province of and also one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the Philippines. For those who want to get a good view of the sea (and the sunset as well), Cape Bojeador is the place to be. It is an old lighthouse built on top of a hill, not too far from Kapurpurawan, that remains functional up to this day. This aged building faces the West Philippine Sea and serves not just as a guide for seafarers but also as a romantic setup. It is the perfect site to experience man’s and nature’s architecture way above sea level. Whether it is a man-made structure or a masterpiece of Mother Nature, Ilocos always delivers. Everything has been well-kept despite the lusting of urbanization. It is rural, it is rustic, but it is progressive. It is one of those rare places in the world where man and nature have a mutual understanding, where the old and the new are in harmony, and where warmth, friendliness, and hospitality are part of its people’s DNA. OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Adventure

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

Story by LADY MAY MARTINEZ

Camiguin, Bukidnon, & Cagayan de Oro Photographed by TEDDY PALAEZ

he television is on in the office of Camiguin governor Jesus Jurgen Romualdo. It is broadcasting live images of the Zamboanga crisis, where the rebel group, the Moro National Liberation Front, has attacked parts of that province in Mindanao. “This is really hurting us,” governor Romualdo sighs. Any upheaval in Mindanao has a dire effect on the rest of the cities and provinces in the region. Especially in terms of tourism. One mention that a place is in Mindanao, and the knee-jerk reaction is usually alarm or fear. Never mind that Camiguin, along with provinces like Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental and Misamis Oriental are actually in Region 10 or Northern Mindanao— miles away from the actual fighting. “We just tell them that we are located south of Visayas,” Governor Romualdo laughs. This seems to work. Tourists are generally more trusting of Visayas. But in the long run, people really have to be convinced that this part of Mindanao is quite safe. And very beautiful. This was precisely why the Department of Tourism had flown us out on a Northern Mindanao adventure—to assure the folks back home, and even abroad, that not all of Mindanao is in conflict. In fact, certain parts of it are much safer than Manila. Our first stop was Camiguin. We flew there from Cebu city. This is a new route being promoted by Cebu Pacific Airlines, which started its Cebu-Camiguin flights this year. We took the Monday flight at 9:35 am. Before we knew it, we were landing a mere 30 minutes later.

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AN ISLAND BORN OF FIRE Camiguin is a pear-shaped island lying on the Bohol sea, some 54 km southeast of Bohol. Presently, it is 248 square kilometers, only slightly bigger than the smallest province in the country which is Batanes (219 square kilometers). Truth be told, Camiguin used to be much smaller until Mt. Bulkang Daan (Old Volcano) erupted in 1948, spitting out land and lava that eventually cooled to become an extension of the island. It’s a sleepy province with a relatively small population of 90,000 62

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people. It’s the kind of place where everybody knows everybody else. Even the political leanings of each family are common knowledge. “You see, when there is a death in the family, we are able to see which politician’s face appears in the tarpaulin and tent they use during the wake,” Region 10’s Tourism Director Catalino E. Chan III explains. This is just one of the many quirks of this charming province, where everything is laid-back and easy—where lights go out promptly at around 10 pm and the night time silence can be deafening. Governor Romualdo brags that you can walk Camiguin’s streets at night without fear of being mugged, or harassed. Crime rate is very, very low, and the province’ drug usage is at a miniscule .05 percent. Camiguin’s roads are usually quiet and uncrowded, plied by jeepneys, vans, multi-cabs, and the quaint motorela, a small, motorized carriage. It is in the month of October when these same streets come alive with dancing, parades, beauty pageants, and various contests during the Lanzones festival. This weeklong celebration showcases the province’s signature fruit, the lanzones. Lanzones is Camiguin’s most important crop. It is famous throughout the country for its sweetness, because it grows on the island’s volcanic soil. Locals say that the sweet, translucent flesh of lanzones is best eaten a day or two after it is picked off the tree, when the fruit’s dagta or sap is not as evident. Because of its abundance, lanzones in Camiguin is a mere Php 40 per kilo—almost half of what it’s sold for in the markets of Manila. Aside from the Lanzones Festival, Camiguin is busiest during the Panaad Festival, which happens during Holy Week. Devotees from all around the world come in droves to walk the entire 64 km road that runs the perimeter of Camiguin. This procession ends at the foot of Mt. Bulkang Daan, where a hike takes them up through the 14 Stations of the Cross. During this entire week, half of the roadway is closed down. But now in early September, the roads of Camiguin are clear, and a lazy calm pervades the island. “We have everything here — hot springs, cold springs, white beaches, mountain climbing,” governor Romualdo says. “You should try everything.” That’s exactly what we planned to do. But before that, lunch. We had our lunch at the Bahay Bakasyunan sa Camiguin. This resort is just a 10 minute drive from the airport, and we were staying there for the night as well. The grounds there are quite lovely, with coconut trees and large

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swathes of green grass, columns of bamboo bungalows, and A-frame cottages. Though modern comforts such as air-conditioning, wifi and TVs are provided in each of the cottages, the real draw is the porch view of the swimming pool and the ocean. Surol (native chicken in coconut milk, with oregano, and chili), squid, fish, and vegetables were served al fresco, on a long table facing the sea. It was delicious, but we couldn’t linger for long. We had a date at a marine sanctuary. THE ISLAND SANCTUARY Mantigue Island lies 3.5 km off the coast of Camiguin. Special permission from the local unit of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources is needed to explore Mantigue, as the government wants to preserve its pristine state. The boat ride took just 20 minutes, and soon we docked on Mantigue’s soft white sand. Local guide Ikoy ushered us into the 4 hectares of the island’s evergreen forest, where he pointed to us, the different types of trees in existence there. Ikoy also took our photos at the best spots, and showered us with compliments like “Excellent! Beautiful! Fabulous!” Aside from this trek, guests of the island can go snorkeling, kayaking, or diving. But if you want to see some underwater treasures but don’t want to get wet, a glass-bottom boat ride is your best bet. This is what we did, and we spotted colorful reef fish, and beautiful coral. If you’re fortunate, you might even spot the resident pawikan (hawksbill turtle). We didn’t see anyway pawikans, sadly. But we did get a pretty good idea of the underwater treasures that the Mantigue marine sanctuary is protecting. THE ZIP LINE RESTAURANT Soon it was time to go and our boat docked back onto Benoni Port. We immediately headed off to nearby J and A Fishpen. This spot, where the mountain spring water meets the sea is a restaurant with eateries on stilts, with the added attraction of a zip line facility. Guests here can opt to go on a zip line ride while waiting for their freshly-caught fish to be cooked. We decided to try the zip line. A multi-cab drove us up to the first launch point. After we were strapped in, Superman-style, we zoomed 700 meters over Tanguines lagoon, 150 feet in the air. The return 64

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zip of 360 meters was a breeze, and we settled back at the restaurant and tucked into a merienda of pancit canton, coke, and really good, freshly-baked bread. Night was falling when we made our way towards the Sunken Cemetery and the old Church ruins of Catarman, some 25 kilometers away. It was too dark too make out anything in these two spots— we’d just have to return the following day. So it’ll just have to be the spring pools for tonight. FRESHWATER POOLS Unfortunately, we had to shelve Bura Soda Water Park, and miss trying out the pool whose water you can drink and swim in at the same time. The facilities were closed down for maintenance. No matter. We headed off to the Sto. Nino cold spring. Now, this resort would have been perfect for the summer, with its chilly spring waters that sprout up from its sand-bottom pools. Several huts flank these pools, and there’s even an area where drinks can be cooled by the cold spring water. With just an entrance fee of Php 20, it makes for a very affordable and enjoyable picnic place. At Ardent Hibok Hibok Spring Resort, our next stop, we had dinner. Ardent is one of the five hotel-resorts that are accredited by the Department of Tourism (the others being our resort, Bahay Bakasyunan, Paras Beach Resort, Camiguin Highlands and Secret Cove Beach Resort). Having a Php 30 entrance fee already makes it the most “expensive” in Camiguin. Ardent’s hot springs are heated by the Mt. Hibok Hibok volcano, and the pools’ temperature ranges from 32-39 degrees Celsius. And for that cold September evening, taking a dip into these warm, comforting pools was the best way to end the long day. WHITE ISLAND The 5 am trip to White Island the following day was actually optional. But who in their right mind would actually miss a chance to see this Camiguin jewel? So we all woke up early, and after a cup of sikwate (hot chocolate) to ward off the early morning chill, we were off to the island. The usual route to White Island is via the port from Paras resort. There, boats that can fit up to six are available, and the ride to the island takes just 10 minutes. As for us, we took a very short motorela 66

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erected in 1982. You can see the cross from a view deck. Those who want to get closer, can have themselves rowed to the cross. You can do a bit of shopping in this area too. The narrow street that leads up to the view deck is lined with small stores selling Camiguin souvenirs like windchimes made of seashells, refrigerator magnets, keychains and even lanzones vinegar and chicharon from Carcar, Cebu. We then swung by another casualty of Mt. Bulkang Daan’s 1871 eruption—the ruins of the Old Catarman Church. As with most churches of olden times, this one was built with egg yolk, and adobe. But all that remains now of this 16th century Spanish church are the moss covered walls. AN OLD CAMIGUIN SAYING Folks in Camiguin believe that if you visit their island and you are able to circumnavigate the 64 km perimeter road, you will be back. At the end of our Camiguin tour, our very helpful and knowledgeable guide, Milo Dahilan, announced that we actually did completed the route. With grins on our faces, we bid the island goodbye, knowing that we would be back someday soon. Now it was off to Cagayan de Oro. We took the roro (roll-on, roll-off boat) which left Camiguin’s Benoni port at 12 noon. An hour later, we found ourselves in Balingoan, Misamis Oriental. It would take another two-hour drive to take us to the capital, so we took the opportunity to rest. We wanted to be ready for Cagayan de Oro.

ride to Balbagon Port from our resort, where a boat was waiting for us. It was a 20 minute ride, and upon reaching the shore, we saw just how popular this long sandbar was—several boats had arrived ahead of us and people were already busy swimming, snorkeling, and building sandcastles. We took our leisurely time walking on White Island’s soft white sand, gazing at the outline of Mr. Hibok Hibok in the distance. Then, we were approached by a man selling uni or sea urchin. He opened one for us, cleaned up the other idebile parts, and scraped the flesh off the shell. Doused in a bit of coconut vinegar, uni has a briney, even creamy taste that is actually quite delicious. It wasn’t long before we had to go, as we had to make a last minute run for the church ruins and the sunken cemetery. SUNKEN CEMETERY AND AN OLD CHURCH In 1872, Mt. Bulkang Daan erupted so intensely that a 5-hectare Spanish cemetery disappeared into the sea. To mark the area where cemetery sank, a big, white cross was 68

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THE CITY OF GOLDEN FRIENDSHIP The undisputed center of Region 10, Cagayan de Oro or CDO, is located along Macajalar Bay. And while Camiguin is all sleepy, small-town charm, Cagayan de Oro is brazen, ambitious, and very, very friendly. Even the recent devastation of tropical storm Sendong could not keep the city down for long. There are several new and exciting developments that are already in the works for Cagayan de Oro, and we were able to see some of them. The first one is Paseo del Rio, a project by the Zealep corporation. Though it is still in its construction phase, the plan is that Paseo del Rio will include a mall, a convention center that can accommodate 3,000 people, and an 18-storey, five-star hotel which will have a rooftop infinity pool and a helipad bar. With its location beside the Cagayan de Oro river, the structure is designed such that it harnesses the river’s breeze, giving its guests an experience that is both luxurious and close to nature. Meanwhile, the Limketkai Luxe Hotel has a prime location just minutes away from Cagayan de Oro’s shopping and dining hubs. The hotel, which is slated to open early next year, will have 213 rooms—12 of which are executive suites, while 16 are executive club suites. It will also have an infinity pool, a spa and a 700-seater ballroom. Dining at the hotel will include an upscale Chinese restaurant, and a buffet spread with carving stations showcasing sumptuous

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San Sebastian Chair and Vera Floor Lamp by Triboa Bay Living

meat cuts. Limketkai Luxe Hotel is a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) registered, Gold building—which means that its construction, design, operation and maintenance are environmentfriendly. Now our last stop for that day, was also where we would be spending our two nights in Cagayan de Oro. Seda Centrio is a development by Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts and the Floirendo’s Anflo Group, and it is located over the Centrio mall. This boutique hotel opened only last December 2012, and features a sleek, modern design—with Paco Guerrero paintings adorning its walls, and a lobby designed by renowned architect Conrad Onglao. The 150 rooms here have California king-sized beds, in-room safes, Ipod docks and speakers, and very handy media panels with USB, HDMI, and audio visual connections which allow guests to view their files or listen to music via the 40-inch LED TV system. At this point, there was nothing more that I wanted than to plop down on the comfortable bed and rest, but we were slated to have dinner at a popular Cagayan de Oro restaurant. FILL ME UP: CDO STYLE Fil Me Up is actually the sister restaurant of the Cagayan de Oro favorite, Thai Me Up restaurant. Owner Jan Uy shared that their original restaurant, Thai Me Up with its Thai fusion dishes was so popular that a new one showcasing Filipino cuisine, was inevitable. We had quite a buffet spread—sinuglaw (a dish composed of grilled pork belly and raw fish soaked in vinegar), galunggong (hard tail mackerel) samosa, pork humba, and chicken halang halang. After this dinner, we were quite stuffed and it was off to bed for us. White water rafting awaited the following day. WHITE WATER RAFTING At 7:30 am sharp, the jeep from Bugsay River Rafting picked us up from the hotel. After a quick stop at Bugsay’s office to sign our waiver forms, we were off. An hour and a half ’s drive later, we alighted at the starting point in Sitio Aura, Barangay Mambuaya, and geared up for our three-hour white water rafting adventure. Our guide then gave the preliminary instructions, and divided us afterwards into two groups (around five to six people in a boat). With our helmets on, and our paddles in hand, we stepped on the signature 70

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sky blue raft of Bugsay—which are customized especially for this rafting company. We floated slowly down the Cagayan de Oro river at first, and whenever our guide Arman commanded us to “Paddle! One, two, three!” we obeyed instantly. Soon the first rapid was upon us, and as the boat tilted and swayed, there was much splashing of water and shrieks of laughter. After the excitement died down, we tipped our paddles up in a high five that marked the successful conquering of a rapid. The thing about white water rafting is that if it’s your first time, the natural fear would be that every rapid that you cross might flip your boat over or smash you against the rocks. But this was the beginner’s trail and we had very skilled boat guides with us. There was nothing to fear, and soon we were eagerly looking forward to the next rapids. At the half-way point of our three-hour river ride, we stopped for a boodle lunch set up by our guides. They flipped a boat over, and there arranged adobo, liempo (grilled pork belly), shrimp, grilled bangus (milk fish), lots of rice and pineapples. The food bloggers in our group hastily took photos of our feast. Later on, the Canadian man who had joined our group admitted to us that he had watched this process with amusement, and thought to himself, “Have these people never seen food before?” All in all, we rode 14 rapids—some small, some big, but all of them invigorating. In between these there was the stunning scenery of the rocky river walls and lush vegetation plus the wide open space ahead of us, with its serene mountain views. At certain parts where the water was calm, our guide urged us to jump off the boat and enjoy floating down the ice cold river. ADRENALINE RUSH IN BUKIDNON The day’s adventure was not yet done. But we had to go on a twohour drive to Malaybalay Bukidnon first, which is some 91 kilometers south of Cagayan de Oro. Bukidnon is a landlocked province, bound on the north by Misamis Oriental, the south by North Cotabato and Davao del Sur, the west by Lanao del Sur, and the ast by Agusan del Sur and Davao del sur. Majority of Bukidnon’s land is classified as forest land, and the average elevation here is 3,000 feet—which makes for a great, chilly temperature. Some of the more popular places in this province include the Mt. Kitanglad National Park, in North Central Bukidnon, and the Del

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Monte Pineapple Plantation, which is an agri-tourism site, the largest single pineapple plantation here in the Far East. But as for us, our destination was the Dahilayan Adventure Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a mountain resort tucked in the highlands of Dahilayan. The main draw of this park are its thrill rides. The zip lines here are quite popular, and the first one we tried was the 320 meter and 150 meter dual zip line. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d think that after the 700 meter zip line in Camiguin, this would be a cinch. But this was a whole new experience because we had to ride it in sitting position. Thankfully, a dual zip line means you get to ride simultaneously with somebody, which is somewhat comforting. These two lines are actually meant as just a warm up to the 840-meter one, which until recently, was the longest dual zip line in Asia (it has since been eclipsed by Dakakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s zip line which is 1,364 meters). The 840 meter zip was quite exhilarating. The launch point is 4,700 feet above sea level, and you zoom Superman-style over treetops, mountains and through fog. Now this adrenaline fix was apparently not enough for the boys in our group so they went on to try the Drop Zone. This â&#x20AC;&#x153;rideâ&#x20AC;? is an 11-storey freefall, which swings you pendulum-like over a manmade lake. The most nerve-wracking thing about this is that after youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been lifted high up in the air, you are the one to unbuckle the strap and launch your screaming self on the 120-feet plunge. Just watching the whole thing made me dizzy. But the boys in our group walked away from this ride with the kind of self-satisfied strut that comes from staring death in the face and living to tell about it. Aside from these white-knuckle rides, Dahilayan also an ATV trail, a rope obstacle course (great for team building), a flying lizard ride, plus cozy mountain lodges where you can stay overnight. As for us, we drove two-hours back to Cagayan de Oro for dinner at the Kagaynon Restaurant. Director Chan met us there, and we feasted on lechon, pinakbet, ostrich salpicao, and crocodile barbecue in this celebrated CDO restaurant. Director Chan regaled us with tales of lechon festivals, 5-hour beauty pageants, and lanzones and diwata (fairy) legends. CITY TOUR AND PASALUBONG STOPS On our last day in Cagayan de Oro, our guide Milo, took us on a short city tour with stops like the St. Augustine Church and its 100-year old stained glass windows from France, the Museum of Three Cultures in Capitol University and its ornate soil paintings, and magnificent Maranao jewelry, and the Sendong Memorial Wall in Gaston Park, which lists the names of those who perished in the floods, as well as the names of those who are still missing. We also made the rounds of the pasalubong spotsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Slerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ham and Cafe with its delicious ham and chicharon (reportedly, president Noynoy Aquinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite), Pine Ham with its nondescript location and its smoked and cooked ham specialties, and of course Oro Ham, the CDO favorite. For the famous custard-filled bun called pastel, we swung by Vjandep and Missy Bon. We also dropped by Monster Kitchen, which is a combination of a baking supplies shop, school, and pasalubong center where I bought Shigaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Bukidnon chili in olive oil. I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to distribute my pastel, lanzones, and chili pasalubong to family and friends. And I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to tell them all about my trip. It was a fantastic four days in Northern Mindanaoâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a perfect vacation filled with relaxing beaches, thrilling river rides, heartstopping adventure parks, exciting commercial developments, and a people so warm and disarmingly friendly. With so many things to offer in such a safe environment, the area shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to hide under the â&#x20AC;&#x153;south of Visayasâ&#x20AC;? label. They are Northern Mindanao, and they should be proud.

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Places

Where Good Memories Are Made very memorable occasion has a venue. Since most good memories are made with other people, it is reasonable to believe that where these people meet and mingle with each other play a huge part in creating these reminiscences. Choosing the right venue is one of the biggest decisions people have to make in planningfor life’s big events. It has to be undoubtedly beautiful, spacious, clean, comfortable, accessible, affordable, and the list of qualities goes on and on. It is reassuring to know that there is one place where these characteristics are all present. The Blue Leaf Filipinas is one such venue that has mastered form and function through research and years of experience in the banquet service. This is the second events place for The Blue Leaf, a proof that Metro Manila truly needs facilities to accommodate the recreational needs of its corporate and private residents. The first one, located in McKinley Hill Village in Taguig City, has already become the place to be for social gatherings and corporate events. With the sterling performance of the country, it is to be expected that more and more events shall need a good venue. Located in Parañaque City, The Blue Leaf Filipinas aptly showcases world-class Filipino architectural design and a refreshing garden landscape that will complement the master plan of Aseana City, a 204-hectare development along the Manila Bay area that is positioned to become the next entertainment and business hub in the Philippines. The materials used to build the site are all sourced locally. The hallway features a wooden ceiling with alero design. The interiors, on the other hand, introduce capiz doors, abaca chandeliers, a nice biscuitcolored wooden ceiling, classy veneer wall accents, a “pulpit” and a unique barandilla balcony. In the middle of the entire venue is the main garden—accentuated by tropical plants and pathways—that offers the same “out-of-the-city” experience guests have been accustomed to in The Blue Leaf McKinley Hill. On one side is the five-meter tall waterfall that adds a calming effect to the spa-like atmosphere of the place. Completing the al-fresco setting is the feature staircase overlooking the garden. The overall minimalist, Filipino design allows clients to apply their own theme or design to the venue. It is flexible and functional at the same time. The Blue Leaf Filipinas stands on a 5,800-sqm lot and features three Pinoy festival-inspired events halls: Sinulog (500 guests), Pahiyas

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(300 guests), and Pintados (200 guests). These halls have a combined capacity of 1,000 guests. That’s 1,000 memories already! Just imagine the number of people gathered in one place, each one creating vivid life stories to be reminisced in the future. For small gatherings, three more Pinoy music-inspired function rooms are also available, namely, Harana, Kundiman, and Cariñosa. Each one can accommodate 50 guests. They can also be combined to host 150 guests. Above these rooms is a roof deck garden that faces Manila Bay, which can be used for sunset ceremonies or evening cocktails. Whether it is a wedding, a debut, a children’s party, a conference, a business meeting, or any other social gathering, The Blue Leaf Filipinas offers packages that will make planning a whole lot easier and stressfree. It has all-inclusive packages that are tailor-fitted to provide all the essentials needed for any type of event. A typical package, like buffet dinners or weddings, is designed for 150 guests, but packages for a small group 50 to as much as 1,000 guests are also available. Each one is inclusive of five-hour use of venue (with additional two-hour ingress and one-hour egress) and cuisine services with a designated caterer. The Blue Leaf Filipinas has partnered with some of Metro Manila’s most sought-after caterers to ensure all of its guests’ events are unforgettable. These include Hizon’s, Josiah’s, K by Cunanan, Tijoe (pronounced as ‘Choo’), and The Red Chef and Events. Other features included in the package are air-conditioning system, stage, pavilion projector and screen, pavilion sound system, electricity, parking space, caterer’s area, guest lounge, security staff support, engineering staff support, and maintenance staff support. For the terms, a non-refundable reservation fee of P20,000 per hall is paid upon confirmation. A 50-percent down payment has to be given 30 days after reservation. The remaining half has to be paid 30 days before the event, with an additional security deposit of P20,000 per hall (returned minus the charges seven days after the event). for more information and reservations Call +632.623.9188, +632.585.1207, +63917.838.BLUE, or +63917.868.BLUE; e-mail filipinas@theblueleaf.com.ph; or visit filipinas.theblueleaf.com.ph/Contact

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Where to Stay

has a New Home Online at www.RichmondeHotels.com.ph

s the Richmonde Hotel brand continues to grow steadily around the nation, it is just fitting to move to a new address in cyberspace with a name that aptly represents one of the country’s first all Filipino-owned, managed and employed hotel group. The new website www.richmonehotels.com.ph houses Richmonde Hotels & Resorts’ (RHR) three Richmonde Hotels: the pioneering 4-star businessman’s hotel in Pasig City, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas; the sole hotel in the first mixed-use CyberPark development in the metro, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel; and the soon-to-open Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, which is the initial venture of the hotel outside Metro Manila. Managed by Prestige Hotels & Resorts, Inc., an affiliate company of real estate giant Megaworld Corporation, RHR aims to enhance its connectivity with its guests by creating a site that has a more elegant and easily navigable layout; offers quick links to interact directly with the hotel via the Contact Us page or social networking sites; and most importantly, provides instant confirmation and the best room rates and packages in its online booking system. People on the go need not fret as they can keep connected with www. richmondehotels.com.ph’s mobile and tablet versions for effortless engagement and online booking, whenever, wherever. So come visit the new cyber home of Richmonde Hotels and Resorts and log on to www.richmondehotels.com.ph! Also, for the latest news updates, irresistible promotions, and exclusive deals of Richmonde Hotel, don’t forget to follow its Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. Richmonde Hotel Ortigas is located at 21 San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. Eastwood Richmonde Hotel is located at 17 Orchard Road, Eastwood City, Bagumbayan, Quezon City. Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is set to rise in 2014 at the Iloilo Business Park located in Mandurriao District, Iloilo City. 76

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Where to Eat

Heavenly Goodness on Earth

here is a place in the southern part of Metro Manila where people wake up every morning with the heavenly scent seemingly coming from the greater sky where the divine dwells. Truth be told, this godly aroma is a byproduct of an earthly creation, and it comes not from above but from a humble bakery downtown. The name is Manna Bakery Café, a perfect label for a place that offers food that is so good, it feels like getting a taste of heaven. Offering various sorts of breads, pastries, and comfort food, Manna delivers quality and freshly made products daily at affordable prices. It welcomes the early hours of the morning with dedicated bakers all set to handcraft breads. Manna started when one of its bakers failed in his English test and lost an employment opportunity in Australia. Instead of sulking for his misfortune, he took it as an opportunity to build his life anew. This baker was so good at what he does that he and his partners were able to build a clientele in BF Homes, Parañaque, considered as the “biggest subdivision in Asia.” The rest, as they say, is history. The bakery is now owned by 1Sycamore Food Ventures, and it envisions to serve the surrounding community with their “daily breads.” For the people behind Manna, being in a community is like “knowing each customer who enters the place and being part of their life.” One of their biggest inspirations is their customers who deserve nothing but a “blessing of freshness.” Apart from them, Manna also aspires to provide “good-hearted, hardworking, and talented Filipinos with a stable job.” For this modest shop, they bake and cook “for a better Philippines.” Manna’s team in the commissary and kitchen is composed of several multi-awarded chefs who are working together and mentoring up-and-coming chefs who are also committed to excel

in their chosen field of expertise. The diverse approaches in baking and cooking at Manna can be seen in their bestsellers. For breads, their raisin cinnamon bread, walnut bread, pesto cheese pandesal, and asado rolls are the heavy favorites. Customers also rave about the ensaymada, the cinnamon rolls, and the variations of muffins, which include banana, blueberry, cheese, chocolate, strawberry, cheese and herb, and carrot. Aside from these baked goodies, Manna also offers mouth-watering dishes such as cream chowder soup, chicken and beef pot pies, and baked macaroni among others. Best of all, their products are without additives or preservatives. These delectable foods are not the only thing that people are enthusiastic about. What sets Manna apart from other bakeries and cafés is quality customer service. One time, a lady customer came in talking about her son who was in the newspaper that day. She was a bit frustrated because she could not bring herself to get a copy. One of Manna’s staff immediately went out and returned with the newspaper. The lady customer was so surprised and even told that it was the best gesture she had ever seen. One thing is true for those working in Manna: “The mere pleasure derived from giving pleasure to others when you can is something one cannot buy.” After only a year of opening its doors to the public, Manna is now ready to serve more Filipinos with their heavenly products. They will open a new store at SM City BF in Sucat, Parañaque, on November 29. People looking for good food and good service need not search in famous business districts across the metro. Manna is more than happy to welcome anyone to its place located at #289 Aguirre Avenue, BF Homes, Parañaque City. They can also be reached through these numbers: (02) 358.5271 or 0917.829.8372. Story By STENO A. PADILLA / Photographed By NOEL TY

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Health

“Starlux 500, developed by Palomar, is clinically proven to produce results as good or better than single-procedure lasers. According to Revage CEO Dr. Iris Shelly Tagud-Pastor, results can be seen in as early as the f irst or second session, while total clearing can be achieved in four to f ive treatments, which is faster compared to others that accomplish the job in eight to 10 sessions.”

hey say that hair is the crowning glory of a woman (or a man), but when hair starts to grow in unwanted areas of the body, this rather becomes an inglorious liability than an asset the one can flaunt. Some people opt to have it shaved or waxed, while others go for laser treatments that promise “permanent hair removal.” Sorry to break your bubble, but permanent hair removal is impossible. Here’s a fact: Hair will continue to grow out of your body as long as you’re alive. Surely, you don’t want to be dead just to get rid of those unwanted hair. However, fret not because there’s a solution to this problem. At Revage, they make no promises of removing hair permanently, but they guarantee patients of “permanent hair reduction” through the use of one of the most reliable laser machines in the aesthetics world, the Starlux 500. Starlux 500, developed by Palomar, is clinically proven to produce results as good or better than single-procedure lasers. According to Revage CEO Dr. Iris Shelly Tagud-Pastor, results can be seen in as early as the first or second session, while total clearing can be achieved in four to five treatments, which is faster compared to others that accomplish the job in eight to 10 sessions. “Oftentimes, you can be totally hair-free for a year,” she said, adding that laser removal has no downtime. One can resume his or her daily activities after the session. What’s even more impressive is that there is only “minimal pain,” which disappears after a few minutes. But there’s a caveat. Dr. Tagud-Pastor said that “a laser is not a miracle worker.” Meaning, a client cannot just ask for one session to achieve the results he or she wants. It has to be “sessions” in order to reach the desired outcome. “All lasers are not created equal. If the clinic has a very good and reputable laser machine, in four to five sessions one can be completely hair-free for prolonged periods of time. If the machine is of poor quality, no matter how many sessions you’ve had, there will be little to no effect,” she added. Laser hair removal is not the only treatment that Starlux 500 can do. This machine has multiple handpieces for different skin indications. It can be used for fractional non-ablative skin resurfacing, which can shrink pored, firm and tighten skin, and diminish fine lines and wrinkles with no downtime. Overall texture becomes smooth, while pigmentations are reduced to a fraction. It can also lessen stretch marks, and improve acne and surgical scars. Dr. Tagud-Pastor shared that clients should be discerning in choosing the clinics which provide good quality machines and if the doctor has received laser training. Laser treatments are a case-to-case basis, and only the doctor can assess which treatments are right for the clients’ needs.

For inquiries and reservations, visit www.revage-now.com, like their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pages/R%C3%A9vageThe-Science-of-Youth/138454636218762?fref=ts, or call (02) 552.1983 or 0917.8REVAGE (738243).

Story By STENO A. PADILLA / Photographed By FRANCIS N. TAWAGON 80

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Partners With Toyota For Employees’ Housing

Joining President Berberabe on the left photo are: Pag-IBIG Fund Deputy Chief Executive Off icer for Home Lending Operations Acmad Rizaldy P. Moti, TMPC Senior Executive Vice President Dr. David Go, Ph.D, and TMPC OIC for Human Resources Management Catherine Ann B. Benitez. (Inside Photo Left to Right) Pag-IBIG Fund Calamba Branch Manager Jerome V. Badiong, Pag-IBIG Fund Vice President for South Luzon Group Chito L. Enciso, Ms. Benitez, and Ms. Mamonong.

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

he Pag-IBIG Fund recently signed an agreement with Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMPC) to provide the workforce of the Laguna-based Japanese car maker with house finance services. The pact with TMPC is expected to benefit its 1,396 employees as it will provide access to services such as pre-qualification to the employees for Pag-IBIG housing loans, home matching, pick-up of housing loan applications and delivery of Notices of Approval. “This event is important to us. I am very grateful that Toyota Motor Philippines entered this partnership. The Fund is in the upbeat approach to reach out to different sectors, and we are tapping the top 100 companies. I’m pleased to know that Toyota cares for its employees. I’m looking forward to seeing the constructed houses of your hard-working employees,” said Atty. Darlene Marie B. Berberabe, President and CEO of Pag-IBIG Fund. TMPC is the third company to sign-up for this program. Dr. David Go, Ph.D, President and General Manager of TMPC, expressed his deepest appreciation to Pag-IBIG Fund for its continued pursuit of relevant programs to better serve the members. “With this agreement, our key members will have access to more comprehensive services to Pag-IBIG. Our team members will benefit from this program, fulfilling their dreams of having their own houses. Toyota is fortunate to be accredited by Pag-IBIG in this program.” During the signing ceremony, Pag-IBIG Fund also turned over the Notice of Approval (NOA) of Mr. June Lamberte, a Toyota employee who availed of an P800,000 housing loan package in Calamba, Laguna. The NOA was received by TMPC OIC for Human Resources Management Catherine Ann B. Benitez and TMPC Assistant Vice President for Human Resources Management Jhohana A. Mamonong in behalf of Mr. Lamberte.

OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2013

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Parting Shot

How To Get There

To get to Lake Sebu, you can take the flight from Manila to General Santos City. From there, ride the bus bound for Koronadal, then take another bus bound for Surallah. From Surallah, there are jeepneys and vans that will take you to Lake Sebu. indanao holds some of the country’s best-kept secrets, and one of those is Lake Sebu in South Cotabato. Located within the Allah Valley region, the lake town is not only a tourist destination but also an important watershed that supplies water for irrigation in the province and in neighboring Sultan Kudarat. Lake Sebu and its surroundings are part of the ancestral domain of the T ’boli, an indigenous group known for their weaving skills, brassware, and aquaculture. It is also home to other tribes, namely, Tiruray, Ubo, and Manobo. The lake is not just their sacred address but their source of livelihood as well, breeding hito, tilapia, and freshwater shrimp in large fish cages floating in the lake that they sell to nearby municipalities. There are actually three lakes in this town: Lake Sebu, the largest; Lake Siluton, the deepest; and Lake Lahit, the smallest. You can rent a boat for P500 (maximum of 15 passengers) to tour the serene lake and observe the activities within and surrounding it. Water is not the only resource here. Encircling Lake Sebu are rolling hills and mountains covered with thick rainforest that serve as natural habitat of tropical and endemic species, such as the Philippine deer, wild boar (locally known as baboy ihalas), egrets, kingfishers, swallows, herons, kites, and Philippine Cuckatoos. 86

In this forest lie not one, not even two or three, but seven waterfalls that all have T ’boli names aptly describing each one of them. There’s Hikong Alu, meaning “passage falls;” Hikong Bente or “immeasurable waterfalls;” Hikong B’lebed or “coil or zigzag waterfall;” Hikong Lowig or “booth;” Hikong Kefo-i, meaning “wild flower;” Hikong Ukol or “short falls;” and Hikong Tonok, meaning “soil.” Get up close and personal with these amazing “hikongs” by trekking the hills surrounding Lake Sebu or by trying the 200-meter tall Seven Falls Zipline, considered as the highest in all of Southeast Asia, to get a unique perspective of the falls. Its combined length is 1,160 meters, 740 meters on the first leg and 420 meters on the second. And since Lake Sebu has temperature similar with Tagaytay City’s, expect the cool, crisp air to brush your face as you slide down and pick up speed on your way back to the ground. Before going back to your hotel or resort, be sure to get a taste of T ’boli cooking and buy some of their handcrafted products for a reasonable price. You will be amazed by the intricacies of the patterns and the unique color combinations that they apply to these artistic goods. If you are lucky enough, you will also hear T ’boli music while touring the vicinity. Since the place blends with nature with no trouble, it is easy for you to relax, think, and even emote if you want.

Story By STENO A. PADILLA / Photographed By CONSTANTINE S. AGUSTIN