The 2019 Summer Quarterly Issue by Balikbayan Magazine

IN FOCUS: THE PHILIPPINES AND CHINA REAFFIRM FRIENDSHIP

N O. 63 I VOLUME 10 MAY I JUNE I JULY 2019 SUMMER QUARTERLY ISSUE

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 01

02 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 03

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

A Taste of Modern Countryside Living After the success of Leisure Suites South, We offer now the all-new ULTRA LOW DENSITY clustered home at Tagaytay Alta Monte. The LEISURE SUITES NORTH is the pioneer in the ULTRA LOW DENSITY CLUSTERED HOUSING project in Tagaytay city, Privacy and individuality is our utmost focus of the project. Experience urban condominium living with the soothing ambiance of the countryside. Leisure Suites, located at the Northern part of Alta Monte, appeals to families and re locators looking for a home away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Combining the comfort of modern living. Each clusters has six units each comprises of 1BR(2nd floor), 2BR(3rd floor with loft) and 3BR(Ground floor w/mezzanine level). Every unit boasts of Modern style interiors, painted in light colors that make for a brighter and more breathable space. Each one also has a service balcony to emphasize the serene countryside ambiance that can’t be replicated by the busy metro. All units have foyer, living area, dining area, kitchen area, service area and allocated individual parking spaces fronting each cluster.

04 — ISSUE 63

The Leisure Suites in Alta Monte is located near commercial centers, markets, schools, and government offices — providing accessibility while maintaining a quiet and comfortable living in a private subdivision. Homeowners will be pleased to know they can enjoy exclusivity and security with Alta Monte’s gated community. It also offers a panoramic range of amenities that include a multipurpose clubhouse with function rooms, wide swimming pool and kiddie pool, as well as recreational and sports facilities like basketball and tennis courts. Leisure Suites, developed by Don Tim Development Corporation (DTDC), was recognized as Southeast Asia’s Best of the Best Residences in 2016 by Dot Property Group, a Digital Media Company that owns and operates 10 property portal websites and complimentary offline media throughout South East Asia. DTDC is a realty firm that develops residential projects in Cavite and Tagaytay. The firm is known for functional-premium housing development, first-rate features and amenities, reasonable prices, convenient locations, and customer-oriented service. They largely cater to OFWs, expats and retirees, creating modern homes and choice amenities that provide value and comfort. And by offering integrated service such as construction, marketing, financing and importation of high-grade materials, the company is able to present quality living at reasonable prices.

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 05

www.MONTEMARIA.com.ph

06 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 07

Build the Future of the Philippines. Own land back home in the Philippines? Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to sell your property or interested in exploring a joint venture development project, partner with us and discover ways you can help build the future of the Philippines.

08 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

AG RI C ULTURA L I R ES I DENTIAL I CO M M ERCIA L I IND U STR IAL www.PremierAsiaPacific.com I Info@PremierAsiaPacific.com (PH) +63-917-824-1555 I (USA) +1-213-596-5970

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 09

010 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

Home to the World’s largest monument to Mother Mary.

Where home is also a travel destination. Reserve yours today. Lombard By The Bay is a future, world-class township development located in Montemaria, Batangas. The development overlooks the Verde Island Passage which is recognized by the United Nations as the “Center of the Center of Marine Bio Diversity in the World.” LombardByTheBay.com

Info@PremierAsiaPacific.com For inquiries, contact Rene Cinco at: (PH) +63-917-824-1555 or (USA) +1-213-596-5970

ISSUE 63 — 011

MAILBAG Have any questions, feature ideas, comments, ideas, or complaints? Or simply wish to join our team of global correspondents and photographers? Contact us on our Facebook page @BalikbayanMagazine.

PUBLI SHE R & CE O PRESI DENT & CO-PU B L IS H E R EDI TOR-I N - CH IE F MA NAGI NG E DITO R

R OGE R L . OR IE L C OR A M. ORIE L R A P HA EL J OHN C . OR IEL CH R IST INA M . ORIE L

THE ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS, INC. PHILIPPINES HEADQUARTERS FORT PALM SPRING BUILDING 2ND FLOOR, UNITS D&E

FINANCE & A DMI NI S TRATI VE O FFICE R V ICE PRESI DENT FOR MA RK E T IN G V ICE PRESI DENT F OR A DVE RT IS IN G

G ER A LOU S AGU N V INC E S A MS ON S HA RON ANN BATHA N-S A N PE D R O

CORNER 3OTH STREET & 1ST AVENUE BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY, TAGUIG CITY TELEPHONE: (+632) 856-1661 EMAIL: INFO@ASIANJOURNALINC.COM ONLINE PRESENCE: ASIANJOURNALMEDIAGROUP.COM

VI CE PRESI DENT FO R S A L E S BUSI NESS DEVELO PM E N T

CH I EF PHOTOG R A PH E R

K I MBE R LY D ELOS S A NTOS G REG T RINIDA D R OC ELL E A ÑA BE ZA GER RY PA LABYA B L INA PA LA BYA B NOE L T Y

ASIANJOURNAL.COM TRAVELTRADECONSUMER.COM BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM FACEBOOK.COM/BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE INSTAGRAM.COM/BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE TABLET VERSION AVAILABLE AT: ITUNES.APPLE.COM SEARCH: ASIAN JOURNAL FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS, BACK ISSUES, AND OTHER CIRCULATION CONCERNS PLEASE CONTACT US

SENIO R M ULTI MEDI A D EV E LO PER S F EATURE WR IT E R S

GODWIN GAS ACAO K R IST INE TA N R I TCHE L M END IO LA NATHA LIE R O B LE S

AT INFO@ASIANJOURNALINC.COM. USA OFFICES LOS ANGELES 1210 S. BRAND BLVD. GLENDALE, CALIFORNIA 9120 4 TELEPHONE: (213) 250 .9797

GR AP HI C DESI GNER & I LLUS T R ATO R CI RCULATI ON M AN AG E RS

J ILL IA N P EÑA LO SA A RT HUR S IBU LA NGCAO R OLA ND O MA NE S E

SAN FRANCISCO SUITE 136 1799 OLD BAYSHORE HIGHWAY BURLINGAME, CALIFORNIA TELEPHONE: (650 ) 689.5160

CONTRI BUTI NG WR IT E R S

J ENNI F ER S OR IA NO

LAS VEGAS SUITE 20 0 2770 SOUTH MARYLAND PARKWAY LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 8910 9 TELEPHONE: (70 2) 792–6678

SUBSCRIBE TODAY. 4 ISSUES F O R $ 6 0 PE R Y E A R .

NEW YORK & NEW JERSEY

NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED OR TRANSMITTED IN ANY FORM OR BY ANY MEANS, ELECTRONIC OR MECHANICAL, INCLUDING PHOTOCOPY, RECORDING OR ANY INFORMATION STORAGE OF RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS, WITHOUT PERMISSION IN WRITING FROM THE PUBLISHER. ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS, INC. REGRETS THAT NO RESPONSIBILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR UNSOLICITED MATERIAL, WHICH WILL BE RETURNED ONLY IF STAMPED, ADDRESSED ENVELOPE IS ENCLOSED.

250 0 PLAZA 5

012 — ISSUE 63

HARBORSIDE FINANCIAL CENTER JERSEY CITY, NEW JERSEY TELEPHONE: (212) 655–54 26

“For your retirement, family vacation, pilgrimage, and investment...For generations. ”

Reserve yours today.

LombardByTheBay.com I Info@PremierAsiaPacific.com I Philippines +632-856-1661 ISSUE 63 — 013

PUBLISHER’S NOTE I KEEPING A JOURNAL

Never Stop Learning I recently overheard my son say, “I didn’t go to graduate school. I just followed my dad around and basically received an MBA from him—real world experience.” It is vital to constantly teach not only our own kids, but the next generation everything that we know. Whether it is a core, moral value, or knowledge that we’ve learned from our own parents, or something we’ve learned along the way, or even something about the World and our Philippine culture, roots, and history. These are all incredibly important. While we may think that the ‘young’ generation is caught up in social media and in their phones— they are indeed listening—absorbing what we tell them. Passed on generational information and wisdom are the things that you cannot simply Google. Or can you? I recently also noticed that my son is now also a computer programmer — specializing in data science, web and app development, and digital design and architecture. But he did not go to school for any of these fields—none of them. So I asked him how he learned all of these skills and he said, “I just Googled and YouTubed it.” He also informed me that some of the very best and most intellectually challenging universities in the world such as MIT – the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford now provide their courses online for free. MIT has an entire online catalog of free courses available for anyone interested in learning something new. They even have a 19-week history class titled “Visualizing Imperialism & the Philippines, 1898-1913” — a course that explores and analyzes America’s entry into global imperialism through the conquest and occupation of the Philippines. 014 — ISSUE 63

Think about that for a second. Free education. Free knowledge just sitting there and accessible for anyone anywhere in the World with internet (and well of course the spare time). It’s truly astonishing, remarkable, and amazing to me. So as any good parent would, I told my son and all of my kids for that matter—never stop learning—there is no excuse for not attaining more skills or seeking more knowledge, more education. Today in the U.S., student loan debt is the highest it has ever been. The United States Federal Reserve reports that the total student loan debt is now at an astronomical level — $1.56 trillion. It is not uncommon to hear of doctors and lawyers in their 40s and even 50s still paying off their student loans. I suppose that is the price to pay in exchange of chasing your dreams and hoping for a quality, stable life. It is indeed, still a common perception that in order to get a good, paying job, you

need your college degree or higher. That is certainly true in many ways and I don’t envision how that would ever change — I don’t think learning how to become a doctor can just be Googled or YouTubed. However, it is very important to take the future of learning and jobs into critical analysis and consideration especially with automation and artificial intelligence taking but also creating new jobs. This is very important for a country such as the Philippines because our greatest export is our people — labor.

Roger L. Oriel Publisher & CEO Asian Journal Media Group

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 015

The Summer Quarterly I Destinations I Travel

Q&A with

1. What programs would Duty Free Philippines offer to the Balikbayan community this 2019? 1.1. Senior’s 1st Sunday Shopping Swing The “Senior’s 1st Sunday Shopping Swing” is offered to Filipino Overseas Workers (OFWs), balikbayans, and Regular Filipino Travelers (RFT) seniors citizens who have traveled internationally within 365 days. They are given 10 percent discounts at all Duty Free stores nationwide during first Sunday of the month, in recognition of the invaluable contribution made by senior citizens who have patronized Duty Free Philippines (DFP) for 32 years. While on regular days, seniors and Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) are given a 5 percent discount.

016 — ISSUE 63

1.2 Kabuhayan Program The Kabuhayan Shopping Privilege allows balikbayans and OFWs who have gone back abroad to avail of duty and tax-exempt purchase in the amount of US$2,000.00, exclusively for livelihood equipment, within 15 calendar days (30 days for passengers arriving from November 15-January 15) from the date of arrival as our way of helping our kababayans to use their hard-earned money to put up a business while they are working abroad or want to build their life anew when they decided to go home for good, they can purchase their livelihood equipment at Duty Free Philippines Fiestamall. Among the kabuhayan products available at the DFPC Fiestamall in Parañaque City are popcorn maker, potato cutter, shawarma machine, fryer, hotdog roller, ice cream machine, crepe machine, candy floss maker, chicken rotisserie, rice mill, e-bikes, and car wash package. 1.3 Online Store The dutyfreephilippines.ph store gives us an additional platform to order a variety of gift items ranging from Filipino export quality products, confectioneries, toys, perfumes, cosmetics, liquor, and among others. When purchasing online, customers’ flight details are required. Shoppers are allowed to buy up to USD1,000 worth of items 48 hours upon arrival and their items will be prepared for pick-up at the airport. We are currently working on delivery arrangements to add more convenience. We understand that when someone arrives at the airport, he is always in a hurry to go home to meet loved ones. The delivery will address that concern. This is something new for our OFWs.

ISSUE 63 — 017

The Summer Quarterly I Destinations I Travel

1.4 Balikbayan Plus Card On top of the privilege to shop US$1,500 worth of items, Kabuhayan shopping privilege worth US$2,000, our balikbayans may use them to about 32 partner establishments which include hotels, resorts, theme parks, restaurants, beauty, and wellness centers and avail up to 20 percent discounts. While we are expanding our partnership with other establishments, our current partners include Resorts World Manila, Belmont Hotel, Hotel H2O, Azalea Hotels and Residences, Bayview Park Hotel Manila, Diamond Hotel, Royal Mandaya Hotel (Davao City), Eurotel Hotel, Icon Hotel, Residence Inn Tagaytay, Antulang Beach Resort (Negros Oriental), Apo View Hotel, Zoobic Safari, Manila Ocean Park, Enchanted Kingdom, Yupangco Music Academy, Bali Seafood Paluto Restaurant, RSM Lutong Bahay Restaurant, I-Secure Networks and Business Solutions, Matus (jewelry), Bert Lozada Swim School Power in the Water, Bioessence, Vasquez Skin and Body Center, Bali Village Hotel Resort and Spa, Paradizoo Theme Farm(Cavite), Residence Inn Tagaytay, Zoocobia Clark, Pampanga, Zoobic Lodge Subic, Bluewater Maribago, Bluewater Panglao, Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort, and Azotea Suites. 018 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

1.5 Seafarer Shopping Privilege Program Seafarers thru DFPC accredited manning agency can avail of 5-percent discounts on chocolates, liquor, wines, cigarettes, and among others at the DFPC Fiestamall in Parañaque City. To date, we have already accredited 18 manning agencies and we are working aggressively to add more. Seafarers could shop 15 days upon arrival and all they have to do is to claim their discount slip from their agency and present it with their seaman’s book at the Customer Registration Counter. 2. What are the requirements in order to avail the Balikbayan Plus card? Applicants only need to present their passports at the Customer Relations Registration of the Duty Free Fiestamall. Their card will be released within five minutes and it is free of charge. According to Republic Act No. 9174 (N ACT AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED 6768, ENTITLED, “AN ACT INSTITUTING A BALIKBAYAN PROGRAM” BY PROVIDING ADDITIONAL BENEFITS AND PRIVILEGES TO BALIKBAYAN AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES), “balikbayan” shall mean a Filipino citizen who has been continuously out of the Philippines for a period of at least one year, a Filipino overseas worker, or a former Filipino citizen and his family who had been naturalized in a foreign country and comes or returns to the Philippines. ISSUE 63 — 019

The Summer Quarterly I Destinations I Travel 3. How will the Duty Free Philippines plan to aid the tourism industry this 2019? Under the Tourism Act of 2009, 50 percent of the revenue of Duty Free Philippines is remitted to the Department of Tourism (DOT) for tourism-development projects. That means the more revenue we generate, the higher share goes to the tourism industry. A plan to open an outlet at the international airports of Puerto Princesa, Palawan and Bohol-Panglao, Bohol is one of the several undertakings that will happen to DFPC this year to take advantage of the increasing number of inbound tourists in the Philippines. We are also strengthening Duty Free Philippines as a brand with a high recall targeting its target market through information drive to promote Duty Free products and the array of privileges accorded to OFW, balikbayans, and tourists. We will innovate and be more creative on the way we project the DFP brand and its products to the public and target markets. We are accessing the potent digital and mobile channels for informing, acquiring and retaining shoppers. In the same manner, as we desire to establish engagements with our markets and audiences effectively. DFP management is set to make full use of online communication channels and targeted marketing strategies to gain new customers or build deeper relationships with existing ones.

020 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

We need to touch base with and get a good market share of the 2.3 Million OFWs. We also target to convince our Balikbayans of swinging to Duty Free stores while in the Philippines — invoking their sense of nationalism that for every item bought at Duty Free, they help in the alleviation of poverty and creation of jobs in the country, considering that part of DFP revenue goes to the development of the Philippines tourism industry which tops the country’s economic powerhouse. Duty Free Fiestamall has long been synonymous with the Overseas Filipino Market to serve returning Filipinos an easy way to purchase “pasalubongs” or gifts for their loved ones, will be renovated before the end of the year. We need to transform Fiestamall into a more contemporary setting, packed with upgraded and interactive amenities that families can enjoy while shopping. Improvements at Fiestamall include well-curated displays of products, the setting up of a much-improved food court and other food outlets, and the installation of lounges and other conveniences that would complete a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. On the other hand, Duty Free Luxe has opened opportunities to serve Filipino traveler and foreign tourists, mostly the Chinese market. Duty Free Luxe is already making arrangements with the different hotels in the MOA area. This store will be catering more to the Chinese so the categories are mostly fashion, perfumes, and cosmetics that are items in demand by the Chinese. We have expanded our offerings specifically at Duty Free Luxe to appeal to the Chinese market. We carry the YSL. Coach, SKII, and soon Gucci. We are also set to open a Go Lokal store, where we carry exclusive local products for Luxe. Since it opened last October 2018, the majority of the buyers at Luxe are Chinese. ISSUE 63 — 021

The Summer Quarterly I Destinations I Travel 4. The Department of Tourism is presently striving for sustainable tourism, how will Duty Free Philippines support this endeavor? Responding to the global demand for ecofriendly products, we make sure that our stores are plastic free. We have started to use eco bags and biodegradable plastics a few years ago. We are also a big supporter of Eco-friendly brands. Visiting the Go Lokal and Philippinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Finest kiosks, you will notice that our products are derived from natural materials and ingredients that are expertly hand-worked by rural and artisanal communities, providing a sustainable livelihood for our marginalized sector. 5. How will the Duty Free Philippines promote Filipino products while simultaneously catering to foreign brands? Those two categories cater to a separate market. As we support Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thrust to promote homegrown products, we see an opportunity to promote our local brands to outbound tourists for their pasalubong abroad that is why we made sure that we have a wide range of export-quality local products at our stores at the departure of NAIA terminals 1, 2, 3 and Mactan International Airport terminal 2. While we are aggressive in encouraging OFWs and balikbayans to purchase chocolates, liquors, and among other imported products at Duty Free Philippines.

022 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

PROUDLY POWERED BY

TRAVEL

TRADE

CONSUMER & INVESTMENT

HEALTH & WELLNESS

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, AUGUST 3-4, 2019 SOUTHBAY PAVILION MALL IN CARSON, LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CALIFORNIA UNITED STATES OF AMERICA FOR EXHIBITOR BOOTH AND SPONSOR RATES, VISIT WWW.TRAVELTRADECONSUMER.COM I INFO@ASIANJOURNALINC.COM *Exhibitor booths are limited and on a first come, first serve basis. Reserve yours today. ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 023

The Summer Quarterly I On the Cover I Travel

Savor the Moment —Boracay Opening on July 2019, Belmont Hotel Boracay is situated in a perfect location at Boracay Newcoast with views of the ocean and the golf course. It’s a five-story hotel with 3 clusters that offers 245 deluxe twin rooms, 130 deluxe queen rooms, 49 premiere deluxe rooms, 12 executive suites and 6 specially-abled rooms with a total of 442 well-appointed rooms. It has an all-day dining, which is Belmont Café, a swimming pool with an in-pool lounge, Zabana Pool Bar, function rooms, meeting rooms, business center, fitness center and Aqua spa. A golden tropical island stretch of white powdery sand with pristine crystal-clear waters of Newcoast Beach awaits you.

024 — ISSUE 63

Golden hour at the beach front of Belmont Hotel Boracay ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 025

The Summer Quarterly I On the Cover I Travel “Boracay island has been a top destination among foreign and local travelers. They would always to go back here to feel the beauty of paradise and the exuding warm nature that surrounds you. Every traveler would always want to make their trip worthwhile and truly memorable,” says Marie Jehan Balbanero, Area Head of Marketing and Communications. “Our hotel is designed to let the guests feel the continuity of a unique and exclusive nature experience in Boracay. This is where you get to feel the warmth and beauty of paradise. We would want our guests to experience that perfect and memorable moment in their trip,” added Balbanero. Belmont Hotel Boracay offers the warmth and comfort of a sophisticated hotel combined with the relaxing tranquility of a secluded getaway. Retreat from the outside world and embrace the feeling of paradise within. A unique haven with a stunning vision of nature, beauty of paradise and majestic sunsets.

026 — ISSUE 63

Hotel Lobby of Belmont Hotel Boracay

Trellis Garden

Deluxe Queen Room

Belmont Café

ISSUE 63 — 027

The Summer Quarterly I On the Cover I Travel

028 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

Belmont Hotel Boracay swimming pool ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 029

The Summer Quarterly I On the Cover I Travel

Belmont Hotel Boracay Entrance

In Belmont Hotel Boracay we live up to the tagline, “Savor the moment.” As Adie Gallares, Area General Manager says, we do not remember days, we remember moments. We have to taste, feel and experience the great things in life in order to savor that “perfect moment.” Gallares shares that “here in Belmont Hotel Boracay you can experience nature’s perfection at its finest with your loved ones. From the hotel location, to the well thought of nature inspired aesthetics, to the sumptuous food, the complete facilities and the exceptional service that we provide, you are guaranteed to enjoy every second of your stay as you immerse, relax, rest, enjoy, and rejuvenate.” Be among the first ones to step into this pristine beach of this world-renowned destination and “Savor the moment” at Belmont Hotel Boracay. Belmont Hotel Boracay is located at Newcoast Drive, Boracay Newcoast, Brgy. Yapak, Boracay Island, 5608, Malay, Aklan. To find out more about our promos and offerings, contact us at +63 (2) 720 1878 | 0917 821 0282 or check our website at www.belmonthotelboracay.com and follow us on Facebook at Belmont Hotel Boracay and Instagram at @belmontboracay.

Fitness Center 030 — ISSUE 63

Hotel Facade ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 031

The Summer Quarterly I Hotels & Resorts I Travel

Come Home to Charming Batangas The great escape. Your perfect getaway starts at Lima Park Hotel, cited as the 2019 TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Top 16 Hotel for Families in the Philippines as voted by travellers worldwide. And just recently, Lima Park Hotel received the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame Excellence award. The first and only 4-star hotel in Batangas, Lima Park Hotel offers excellent service, well-appointed guest rooms, and unparalleled amenities. Arrive worry-free. Our Concierge will take care of your luggage, while the Valet will make sure that your car is safely parked. Standard check-in time is 2 pm. You will be welcomed by the revitalising coffee blends from BREW Company, the hotel lobby coffeeshop. BREW Company specialises in hand-crafted artisan coffee that you can take hot, cold, or blended.

The stunning sunset at Lake Taal, as viewed from Amore Point.

032 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 033

The Summer Quarterly I Hotels & Resorts I Travel After freshening up, the Amore Bus will promptly whisk you away for your Batangas Lake-lands Tours, starting with a passthrough of the world-class, masterplanned Lima Technology Center—home to the biggest multinational manufacturing companies such as EPSON, Hitachi, Yamaha, Daiho, Bandai, and more where more than 60,000 Filipino skilled workers are employed. From here, you’ll make your way to Balete Bay through Levitown in Marawoy, Lipa and cross the STAR Tollways. Once you’ve made it over the bridge, you’ll be moving leisurely through the winding, picturesque rural road of Balete that literally ends at the shores of Lake Taal. First stop is Amore Point where you will board one of our catamaran boats to start your Taal Lake Cruise that will take you to Lakepoint Manakah. From the dock, prepare for a short hike up Lake Point Manakah where you will be rewarded with the breathtaking view of Lake Taal, the Volcano Island, and Mt. Maculot. You’ll be wel-comed with fresh buko, picked right off the coconut trees that abundantly grow on the property. Here you can take your time snapping as much pictures as you want. Don’t miss the swings that hang from the massive mango trees. Go up the tree house for a sweeping view of the lake. If you happen to take the afternoon tour, the stunning sunset of Lake Taal will surely leave you in awe. Time to board the boat back to Amore Point. Next stop: Marian Orchard. Explore the beautiful gardens of Marian Orchard. Get lost in the myriad of exploding

034 — ISSUE 63

colors of flowers that blanket the instagram-worthy gardens of Marian Orchard. Listen to the Chimes of Mary—14 custom-made bells from the Netherlands that peal every 15 minutes. When at Marian Orchard, spend quiet moments of prayer and reflection at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel; at the Via Crucis, a linear garden with life-size statues depicting the passion of Christ; or pray the ro-sary at The Rosarium. Other points of interest: Chapel of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Sacred Heart Tower, Two Hearts Promenade, Dome of Mary Mediatrix, Halls of Thanksgiving and Petitions, Calvary Hill, Meditation Garden, and Marian Plaza. Did you know that Balete is home to numerous honey bee farms? After your tour of Marian Orchard, make a pitstop at any one of Balete’s honey bee farms. Drop by to see how honey is har-vested, then take home a bottle of wild honey, or try the honey vinegar. Learn about honey-making, and taste authentic, pure honey harvested from the honeybee farms of Balete.

ISSUE 63 — 035

It’s time to hop on the Amore Bus for the trip back to Lima Park Hotel where a delightful lunch or dinner awaits you at PLUM. Asian food without borders at PLUM Asian Cuisine. PLUM offers a distinct experience with dining spaces in a casual-comfy setting but styled enough for hosting different milestone celebra-tions. PLUM is your everyday dining room where you can have your fill of curated Asian classic dishes that are truly Asian. We recommend trying the Homemade Potstickers—handcrafted purple yam dumplings with shrimp, minced pork shoulder, pork back fat, and Asian seasoning, served with ginger chips, green scallion dip and sweet chili. PLUM’s Beef Rendang should not be missed: stewed beef and oxtail in a symphony of Southeast Asian spices and coconut milk reduced to a flavorful consistency and the Singaporean Chili Shrimps cooked in chili, roasted peppers and tomatoes, oyster sauce and prawn head stock. To top your food trip, indulge in our version of the affogato: Barako Coffee Jelly with crumbled broas and Paborita crackers, topped with Mantecado ice cream, and served with a shot each of Barako coffee and sweet cream sauce. 036 — ISSUE 63

Relax away the rest of your day. If you wish, you may have your massage, while the kids might want to swim. Need retail therapy? The Outlets at Lipa is just a skip and hop away from the hotel. Here you’ll experience worldclass shopping at H&M, Nike Sports Shop, Speedo, Adidas, 158 Designer’s Blvd, and a lot more. Come home to a delightful surprise. After a full day, quiet down at Lima Park Hotel’s Horizon Deck while watching the sky turn from fiery orange to a rich magenta before settling to the deep-set blue of the night. Take a nightcap at the Patio Bar. Thursdays and Fridays are jazz and acoustics nights, while you can enjoy the hotel’s unlimited beer promo during happy hours every day of the week. When you’re ready to call it a night, our turndown service will simply lull you to a good night of blissful sleep. Wake up to beautiful mornings. It’s a free and easy second day of your family vacation. Before heading out for your second day’s activities, take a few laps in the expansive Horizon Swimming Pool, pump up at the gym, take a spin on a bike, or jog amidst refreshing green pines while taking in the beauty of Mts. Makiling and Malarayat.

Lima Park Hotel is a four-star 136-room business and leisure hotel located only 60 minutes away from Makati via the South Luzon Expressway and the Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR Tollway). Lima Park Hotel is located in Lima Commercial Center, Lipa-Malvar, Batangas with contact numbers: +763 43 981.1555 and +63 917 504 2385. To book a stay or our Batangas Lakelands Tour & Cruise, send us an email: reservations@limaparkhotel.com. Visit www.limaparkhotel.com. Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/LimaParkHotelph.

Here’s some more of the things that you can do and explore: Enjoy local cuisine. You have not been to Batangas if you haven’t indulged in a huge bowl of Ba-tangas lomi, a local noodle favorite of hot soup thickened with cassava flour made more flavorful with the generous amount of meat cuts and seafood toppings. Check out the road side carinderias along the national highway of Malvar and Lipa for a taste of authentic lomi. After your food stop, head to Lipa City dubbed the “Little Rome of the Philippines” owing to its numerous shrines, churches, retreat houses, and seminaries. Bask in architectural grandeur. Admire the beautiful Romanesque architecture of the Metropoli-tan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian (San Sebastian Cathedral), established in 1910 by Pope Pius X as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Lipa. The Lipa Cathedral, the city’s center of Sun-day worship, is characterized by a huge dome, massive walls and balconies, columns and arches built in the Romanesque architecture. Travel back in time. Another point of interest is the Case de Segunda heritage museum, one of the few remaining original bahay na bato

built during the Spanish era. A heritage house as de-clared by the National Historical Institute, the Casa was once home to generations of artists, poets, and persons of distinction. It was the ancestral home of Segunda Solis Katigbak who was the first love of Philippine hero Jose Rizal. Take with you a piece of Batangas. For souvenirs, there’s no better place but the local market. After the tour, take with you the delicious goodness of Batangas. Drop by Balete’s talipapa for some tawilis, the world’s only fresh water sardine. You shouldn’t miss sumang magkayakap, a local delicacy made from glutinous rice (kaning malagkit), wrapped in banana leaves, then bundled together. Best served with a special coconut caramel sauce. Yum! So what are you waiting for? Go ahead pack your weekend bags and embark on your Batangas road trip. Come over for a most delightful stay in your only home in Batangas—Lima Park Hotel. This is where you should be. written by Rose M. Landicho photographed by Peter Cons, Marc Vitug, Richard Hidalgo, Jessie Lavitag, and Rose Landicho ISSUE 63 — 037

038 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 039

The Summer Quarterly I Restaurants & Bars I Eat & Drink

Authentic Japanese Dining Experience —Izakaya Kenta writer Ritchel Mendiola photographer Godwin Gasacao

With all the countless Japanese restaurants gracing the metro, it isn’t an easy feat to stand out from the rest. Luckily, Izakaya Kenta manages to do this just fine, all with its authentic Japanese food and dining experience. Unlike other Japanese dining establishments, Izakaya Kenta boasts of a wide range of Japanese fare that almost seems limitless with its offerings. You can find almost every kind of sashimi, sushi, maki, noodles, nimono (simmered dish) and agemono (or deep-fried Japanese cuisine) in its menu. For a first-timer, try the Nana Ten Mori — a smorgasbord of seven kinds of sashimi that are all fresh and juicy. Try the crowd-favorite Tako Potato, as well. It’s Izakaya Kenta’s take on takoyaki, using deep-fried potato to envelop a generous amount of octopus meat instead of batter.

040 — ISSUE 63

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 041

The Summer Quarterly I Restaurants & Bars I Eat & Drink

If you’re into chicken dishes, you won’t go wrong with the restaurant’s chicken yakitori platter that serves different parts of chicken in skewers. For a filling fare to satiate the hungriest appetite, the Unaju will certainly not disappoint with its entire tray of rice topped with glorious soft, smoked eel. Izakaya Kenta has been capturing the hearts and palates of diners since it was established in 1997 along Pedro Gil. It closed for three years in 2010 but reopened in 2013 after ‘Doc Rey’ Medina bought its rights. Notably, its menu offers something that most Japanese restaurants do not — the food here is as close as you can get to tasting homemade Japanese food. It’s no surprise, then, that Izakaya Kenta’s customer base is mostly comprised of Japanese folk seeking food that tastes and feels like home. “It’s very authentic, almost like lutong bahay,” Medina proudly stated. This is all thanks to head chef Dennis Ganzon, who has accumulated more than 20 years of cooking experience both in local and internal kitchen. He’s also an original staff member of Izakaya Kenta who rejoined after it re-opened and relocated in Malate. 042 — ISSUE 63

Love Your Age! Be Victorious!

ANTI-AGING PACKAGE

YOU DESERVE TO BE BEAUTIFUL

Going to Manila? Book your pampering Treatment at Vine and get a 40% discount

www.vineaesthetics.com

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 043

The Summer Quarterly I Restaurants & Bars I Eat & Drink

Aside from the authentic food, you can also experience the traditional Japanese style of eating with Izakaya Kenta’s interiors. It has tatami rooms for groups and private gatherings — all of which are accentuated with tatami mats that hail originally from Japan. Surprisingly, Izakaya Kenta’s tatami rooms are designed differently. There is a space underneath the dining table for your feet so you can avoid leg and knee numbness. Here’s another secret why customers keep frequenting Izakaya Kenta: their service is top-notch and almost personalized. The staff here are all friendly and attentive, radiating warmth and hospitality that’s just not reflected in other restaurants. They make it a point to know the diners and memorize their orders so they can serve them well and diners can feel like they’re a priority. Because of all of these, it’s hard not to love Izakaya Kenta. With its warm and brightlylit facade, authentic menu, and stellar service, it’s the one Japanese restaurant you’ll keep coming back to for your Japanese cravings. 044 — ISSUE 63

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 045

www.LOVEOFCOUNTRYPHILIPPINES.com

046 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

The Philippines is not only home to pristine natural wonders and beautiful beaches, but also home to a vibrant, thriving, and booming metropolis that is filled with renowned hotels and resorts, restaurants, bars, shops, schools, investment opportunities, to a burgeoning music, art, culture, and nightlife scene. Come and see for yourself and rediscover the gems of the Philippines. We’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for. — Welcome to Love of Country. Welcome home. Explore today at www.LoveOfCountryPhilippines.com

ISSUE 63 — 047

The Summer Quarterly I The Economy I Business

The Philippines & China Reaffirm Friendship

048 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and People's Republic of China President Xi Jinping reaffirm their friendship and commitment to a stronger development partnership as they hold a bilateral meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on April 25, 2019 ahead of the 2nd Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. Photo by King Rodriguez, Presidential Photo

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 049

The Summer Quarterly I The Economy I Business President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is accompanied by People's Republic of China President Xi Jinping inside the Great Hall of the People in Beijing prior to their bilateral meeting. Presidential Photo by King Rodriguez

Philippines and China Ink Cooperation Agreements President Rodrigo Roa Duterte witnesses the exchange of signed agreements between Philippine Ambassador to the People's Republic of China Jose Sta. Romana and Minister of Commerce Zhong Shan following the successful bilateral meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing ahead of the 2nd Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. The agreement is on hand-over certificate of grant-aid for the dangerous drugs abuse treatment and rehabilition centers project between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Government of the People's Republic of China. Presidential Photo by King Rodriguez

Beijing, China — President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on April 25, met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang prior to the Second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation here. President Duterte, together with the members of his official delegation, met with the Chinese President at the Great Hall of the People. In his opening statement during their bilateral meeting, President Duterte said the two countries should continue to work together in order to explore new areas of cooperation and partnership. He stated that the decision to elevate bilateral ties to a “comprehensive, strategic cooperation affirms the Philippines and China’s strong desire to further deepen and broaden this engagement.” The Chinese President’s visit to Manila in November last year, according to President Duterte, was a “watershed moment” in the Philippine-China ties. President Duterte also expressed gratitude for President Xi’s personal invitation to the Second Belt and Road forum. He said the forum gives another opportunity “to renew and reaffirm our valued relations based on mutual trust, respect, and friendship and must continue to grow strength and meaning in the coming years.” Likewise, President Duterte congratulated the economic achievements of China as it celebrates its 70th founding anniversary. 050 — ISSUE 63

“President Xi expounded on the importance of good neighborliness and proper handling of differences between the countries. While the Chinese leader acknowledged the inevitable of having challenges to the bilateral relations, he placed importance on the mutual trust that exists between the two nations in order to resolve the same,” he said.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, in a statement, described the bilateral meeting of the two leaders as fruitful and productive. He said the Chinese President recognized the Philippines as an important country in the Maritime Silk Road and drew parallelisms between China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the Philippines’ Build, Build, Build program under the leadership of President Duterte, whom President Xi calls a “true friend.” The Chinese President also offered his deep condolences to the Philippines in the aftermath of the earthquakes that hit the country. President Duterte, according to Panelo, took the occasion to welcome more projects for the Philippines under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) “based on the

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte flashes his signature pose with the members of his delegation following a successful bilateral meeting with People's Republic of China President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Presidential Photo by King Rodriguez

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte witnesses the exchange of business agreements between Filipino and Chinese investors during a ceremony at the Grand Hyatt Beijing. Presidential Photo by King Rodriguez

principles of transparency and adherence to international law while reiterating both countries’ commitment in implementing various projects at the soonest possible time, meeting targets closely and ensuring that proper procedures and requirements are observed.” Panelo said President Duterte raised the issue of the West Philippine Sea during the bilateral meeting, particularly the situation in Pag-asa Island. “Both agree that the situation can be managed by the mechanism of bilateral negotiations but it should not affect the cooperation being undertaken by both the Philippines and China and they look forward to a productive discussion on matters of mutual concern and interests,” the Palace official said. “President Xi expounded on the importance of good neighborliness and proper handling of differences between the countries. While the Chinese leader acknowledged the inevitable of having challenges to the bilateral relations, he placed importance on the mutual trust that exists between the two nations in order to resolve the same,” he said. The Chinese President cited the Memorandum of Understanding on Oil and Gas as an example where both the Philippines and China “suspended their differences for a joint exploration that would mutually benefit both countries and their peoples,” Panelo said. The Chief Executive culminated the bilateral meeting with the Chinese President articulating his position that the Philippines remains China’s ally in Southeast Asia. President Duterte “emphasized that both countries are allies, and allies strengthen— and do not destroy—each other.” With regard to the BRI, Panelo said

“President Xi manifested that China will provide more resources to Luzon and Mindanao to spur regional economic growth, as well as promote Clark Green City through the building of an industrial park.” According to him, the BRI will also play an important role in the ASEAN-China relations, where the Philippines plays an effective role as a country coordinator, and in the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) through increased cooperation,” Panelo said. Aside from China’s commitment in relation to the BRI, President Xi likewise committed to continue donating rice and fingerlings and importing Philippines’ local fruits to provide one billion yuan grant to the Philippines. The Chinese leader also mentioned during their meeting that the first group of Filipino teachers may soon start teaching English in China. After their meeting, the two leaders witnessed the signing and exchange of two agreements. The first agreement, signed by National Economic and Development

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte makes his way to the Ji Xian Hall of the Yanqi Lake International Convention Center for the Leaders' Roundtable Discussion of the 2nd Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. Presidential Photo by Simeon Celi Jr. ISSUE 63 — 051

The Summer Quarterly I The Economy I Business

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte joins other leaders during the Leaders' Roundtable Discussion of the 2nd Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation at the Yanqi Lake International Convention Center on April 27, 20 19. Presidential Photo by Alfred Frias

052 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 053

The Summer Quarterly I The Economy I Business

Authority (NEDA) Director-General Ernesto Pernia and National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) Chairman He Lifeng, was the exchange of letters on production capacity and investment cooperation between the Philippines and China. The document proposes a project list which will serve as the focus of cooperation between NEDA and NDRC. The second agreement, signed by Philippine Ambassador to China Jose Santiago Sta. Romana and Chinese Minister of Commerce Zhong Shan, was the Handover Certificate Grant-Aid for the Dangerous Drugs Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers Project between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Government of the People’s Republic of China. This is a ceremonial handover of the drug treatment facilities in Sarangani and Agusan del Norte provided by China through a financial grant. After his meeting with the Chinese President, the Chief Executive and his official delegation met with Li, Premier of the State Council of China at the Diaoyutai State Guest House here. President Duterte declared during their bilateral meeting that the Philippines “would like to reaffirm our commitment to friendship and understanding.” 054 — ISSUE 63

“We envision a more comprehensive, strategic cooperation,” President Duterte Greater Connectivity for Growth President Rodrigo Roa Duterte pushes for said, noting that cooperation has expanded greater infrastructure connectivity to sustain tremendously since his first visit to China. the country’s high-growth trajectory as he President Duterte congratulated Pre- delivers his intervention during the 2nd Belt Road Forum for International Cooperation at mier Li on “what would surely be a suc- and the China National Convention Center in Beijing. cessful hosting of the Second Belt and Presidential Photo by King Rodriguez Road forum.” He stated that the Philippines’ continued participation is an acknowledgement experience. It is also through linkages that of the vision of a global connectivity for we forge and build trust and understandshared prosperity. ing,” the President said in his speech at the China National Convention Center. Migrant workers serve as nodes of these connections, according to the President. President Duterte highlights “Through their hard work, they continue significance of human cooperation, to contribute to the development of both migrant workers their home and host countries,” he said. On April 26, recognized the contribuAccording to President Duterte, it is our tion of migrant workers to the develop- shared responsibility to protect the rights ment of home and host countries, advocat- and promote the welfare of migrant working their protection and welfare during a ers, adding that “these are the essence of forum here. people-centered cooperation.” During the High-Level Meeting Ses“The Philippines is one with every resion I of the Second Belt and Road Forum sponsible member of the international for International Cooperation, President community in building a future that would Duterte underscored the importance of be the envy of history – one that promotes creating human connections. global cooperation yet upholds and respects “In pursuing connectivity, we should national sovereignty; where national honor not merely build roads and bridges but we is married with the interest of humanity; should also create human connections. It and where the great challenges that tranis through these connections that we fa- scend national borders are collectively adcilitate grand exchanges of skills, ideas, and dressed,” he said.

During his speech, the President also reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to the collective vision of common prosperity through cooperation on the basis of mutual respect and as equal sovereign states. In the past, President Duterte said belts and roads established lines of commerce, contact, and connections. “Humanity’s experience, however, has been mixed. Some networks spurred progress; other networks ushered decline,” he said. “While some societies benefitted, others paid a heavy toll. We should learn from the lessons of history,” the President said. President Duterte also acknowledged how multilateralism allowed “us to undertake global governance through cooperation,” from building a global free trade regime to laying down the rules that govern the use of oceans. “We built the current rules-based order because nobody wins in a zero-sum game. This brought us sustained peace and [unparalleled] prosperity,” the President said. “This part of the model is truly to transform our world for the better. Yet even before multilateralism and the new globalization matured, we in Southeast Asia already envisioned a community that promotes shared prosperity and mutual respect,” he said.

“Through ASEAN, we have achieved regional peace and common development. We have become the fulcrum of the regional architecture, respected by all powers for the leadership that only we – nations with no strategic design but that only of peace – can provide,” he added. ASEAN centrality, according to the President, has been a positive force in Asia’s rise and continue to be so as the region’s architecture evolves. “This is the premise of the Philippines’ engagement with the world. In pursuit of our independent foreign policy, we will uphold and defend the open and rulesbased international order,” he said. He likewise stated that the Philippines shall continue to participate, contribute, and cooperate to the extent the Belt and Road Forum complements ASEAN and our national development initiatives, including the Master Plan for ASEAN Connectivity, and creates an environment conducive to productive bilateral undertakings. “The belts and roads of the past facilitated cross-[civilizational] exchange. The belts and roads that we now seek to build must fuse our ideas towards a common objective. Our destination must be the fulfillment of our peoples’ aspirations,” he said.

With regards to development assistance, the President said this should be based on reciprocal benefits, motivated by keen interest in partner states to bring about real progress. “This should be the new normal. And it is in our interest to work together to make this a reality,” he said. He further noted that this should build on capacities of nations and should never foster dependence. “We must remember: Development assistance must be used as a genuine tool to bring about positive change in the lives of our peoples. And it must be a purposive decision of partner-states, taking into account mutual respect and mutual interests,” he said. President Duterte also expressed gratitude to President Xi Jinping for hosting the forum. He said the forum is an opportunity to redefine international cooperation. “This is the key to sustained growth,” he added. Prior to his participation in the HighLevel Meeting Session I, the President attended the opening ceremony at the China National Convention Center. Presidential Photo by Albert Alcain

ISSUE 63 — 055

The Summer Quarterly I The Briefing I Global Affairs

6 0 C O U N T R I E S . 101 C I T I E S .

As part of our continued mission to connect, uplift, and empower international Filipinos, Balikbayan Magazine is available for your reading pleasure at 101 local and foreign Philippine embassies, consulates, offices, and outposts through a collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines. — Balikbayan Magazine’s Media Center serves a global audience in 60 Countries throughout the World in order to ignite, drive, and fuel the economic development, progression, and modernisation of the Philippines. Our Media Center curates some of the most critical, vital, useful, entertaining, and sometimes amusing information released from both the public and private sector. Our editorial team strongly believes that a well-rounded and well-informed society is a thriving society. I) USA 2) CANADA 3) MEXICO 4) PHILIPPINES 5) JAPAN 6) AUSTRALIA 7) EAST TIMOR 8) VIETNAM 9) INDONESIA 10) MALAYSIA 11) INDIA 12) NATION OF BRUNEI 13) CAMBODIA 14) PAPUA NEW GUINEA 15) SOUTH KOREA 16) BANGLADESH 17) NEW ZEALAND 18) MYANMAR 19) LAOS 20) CHINA 056 — ISSUE 63

21) 22) 23) 24) 25) 26) 27) 28) 29) 30) 31) 32) 33) 34) 35) 36) 37) 38) 39) 40)

SINGAPORE THAILAND UNITED KINGDOM GERMANY SWITZERLAND BELGIUM HUNGARY GREECE PORTUGAL SPAIN ITALY FRANCE NETHERLANDS AUSTRIA POLAND RUSSIA CZECH REPUBLIC NORWAY UNITED ARAB EMIRATES JORDAN

41) 42) 43) 44) 45) 46) 47) 48) 49) 50) 51) 52) 53) 54) 55) 56) 57) 58) 59) 60)

QATAR ISRAEL EGYPT SYRIA IRAQ PAKISTAN SAUDI ARABIA BAHRAIN KUWAIT OMAN IRAN TURKEY LIBYA LEBANON KENYA SOUTH AFRICA NIGERIA CHILE BRAZIL ARGENTINA

The Summer Quarterly I The Briefing I Global Affairs

Registered Nurse is First Filipino Town Mayor —United Kingdom After two successful terms as Town Councillor and one term as Deputy Mayor of East Grinstead in Sussex, England, Danilo M. Favor was recently reelected for his third term as Town Councillor and his first as Town Mayor of East Grinstead starting May 13, 2019. He is the first Filipino to be elected as Town Mayor in the United Kingdom. “I enjoy reaching out, being with the community, listening to the views and opinions of others, attending to the needs of my constituents, giving them advice, directing them to the right path, and representing them to the best of my ability,” said Danny, as he is more popularly known by his constituents and the Filipino community in the UK. As Town Mayor, Mr. Favor will serve as the Chairman and Spokesperson of the Town Council, and will head various town organisations such as the Arts Festival, Town Twinning, Nautical Training Corps, and Disability Access, among others. The newly-elected mayor will also be supporting three Mayoral Charities this year, such as The Queen Victoria Hospital Charity, the East Grinstead Community First Responders, and the East Grinstead Street Pastors Youth Community Support Project, all of which are focused on making high-quality health care accessible to the people of East Grinstead. It’s no surprise that Mr. Favor’s advocacies are closely linked with promoting health and well-being. Prior to his foray into British politics, Danny and his wife, Maribel—both registered nurses—initially worked for the Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation when they first arrived in the UK 19 years ago. Both are still working for the same hospital. By profession, Mr. Favor is an Opthalmic Nurse Clinical Specialist, and Independent Nurse Prescriber, an Education Lead Nurse, and a mentor and assessor. Maribel, on the other hand, is an Opthalmic Nurse Practitioner.

East Grinstead Town Mayor Danilo M. Favor (left) is installed into office on May 11, 20 19. (Photo by Jose ‘Peps’ Villanueva)

“I always encourage our fellowmen to come out and be more pro-active in our community. There are lots of great opportunities out there that they can get involved with and enjoy with at the same time.” “Entering British politics was a Godgiven opportunity,” Danny looked back to the time when he first entertained the prospects of running for town councillor in 2011. “It was not in our plan and was beyond my wildest dreams and expectations. In 2011, one month before the election, I reluctantly signed the nomination to stand as Town Councillor Candidate after I was insistently encouraged by one of Conservative Councillors to join them since they really needed to fill in the gap. My wife, Maribel, had agreed and asked me to sign the paperwork saying that I don’t need to worry as the chance of winning for me was very slim anyway.” The results caught the Filipino by surprise as he won by a landslide victory. He ran for re-election in 2015, won, and tried his luck again for the third time this year amidst BREXIT jitters that swept all over the country and affected the foothold of the Conservative Party, which Danny is a part of. “I thank God Almighty that after a well-fought campaign, we made it again. I’ve been re-elected as Town Councillor of East Grinstead for the third term—

another four years after my eight years of service,” he said. “We are probably one of the few full Conservative Town Councils in the UK.” As an active leader of the Filipino community in the UK, Mr. continues to encourage all Filipinos in the UK to contribute positively in British society. “I always remember what our beloved Ambassador to the UK Antonio M. Lagdameo said in one of his speeches—that we OFWs must not be a drain but a gain to the country we are serving,” he said. “I always encourage our fellowmen to come out and be more pro-active in our community. There are lots of great opportunities out there that they can get involved with and enjoy with at the same time.” “Danny is an inspiration to all Filipinos around the world,” said Ambassador Lagdameo. “We are not only proud but hopeful of the great things to come during his term as Town Mayor of East Grinstead. Danny has blazed the trail for other Filipinos in the UK to take on an active role in shaping the country they currently live and work in.” ISSUE 63 — 057

The Summer Quarterly I The Briefing I Global Affairs

Philippines Makes a Splash at the Seafood Expo in Brussels —Belgium A delegation of 15 Philippine seafood companies marked another successful participation in the much-anticipated Seafood Expo Global fair held on May 7-9, 2019 in Brussels. The Seafood Expo is a yearly event, said to be the biggest seafood trade fair in the world, featuring more than 2,007 exhibiting companies from 88 countries this year. The fair reportedly attracted more than 26,000 visitors, including buyers, suppliers and other seafood professionals, from around 150 countries. The Philippine Embassy in Brussels, headed by Ambassador to Belguim Eduardo José A. de Vega, visited the exhibitors at the Philippine Country Pavilion, which showcased the best of the country’s seafood products. The 15 companies who participated in the fair included Agri-aquatic Care Enterprises, Inc.; Bluefin Seafood Export, Inc.; Citra Mina Canning Corp.; D & L Seafoods; E.M. Buenaventura Trading; Fisherfarms, Inc.; FRI Seafood Trading; Jam Seafoods, Inc.; Jarla Trading; Jess Aqua Marine Trading, Inc.; J.N. Mercado Seafood Supply; Nuevo Fresco Marine Trading Corp.; Phil-Union Frozen Food, Inc.; RGE Agridev Corporation; and WellDelight Network, Inc. 058 — ISSUE 63

The Philippine Country Pavilion at Seafood Expo. (Brussels Philippine Embassy Photo)

Ambassador to Belgium Eduardo José de Vega meets with the members of the Philippine delegation. Each booth presented a delectable wealth of Philippine seafood produce and premium processed seafood products. (Brussels Philippine Embassy Photo)

Visitors to the pavilion were treated to samples of fresh sushi grade tuna and other seafood produce – all sourced from the rich waters of the Philippines – as well as premium processed seafood products such as frozen bangus belly and fish sausages. The delegation was brought together by the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). BFAR Regional Director Milagros C. Morales said that the Philippines has a lot to offer in terms of seafood produce and products, as well as good opportunities for investment such as in post-harvest facilities. The Philippines is also fully compliant with European Union market requirements, especially given the active engagement between the Philippine government and the European Commission’s

Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries and other relevant EU institutions. The Philippines’ Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) privileges under the EU also make the country’s products more competitive and attractive to European buyers and suppliers. Ambassador de Vega also hosted a dinner for the delegation to congratulate the Philippine delegation on their successful Seafood Expo participation, which was organized with the Office of the Agricultural Attaché. “We take pride that our companies have showcased the best of our Philippine seafood, all sourced from the rich waters within and around the Philippine archipelago. Rest assured, we will continue to support our fish and seafood industry,” the Ambassador said.

The Summer Quarterly I The Briefing I Global Affairs

Members of the Philippine delegation from left to right: Mary Ivy Elevencione (PTIC-KL), Federico M. Tiongzon Jr. (Ahya Coco), Joseph Arcenal (Herbio Agrinature), Teresita Carandang (Aficionado/Central Affirmative), Grace Demdam (Magic Melt), Rosella K. Tan (RK Trading), Ma. Divina Mato (ZAMBOECOZONE), Evelyn Falcasantos (EJT Food Products), Ma. Anniese A. Entera (ZAMOECOZONE), Ester Perez (Baker's Field), Gina Ariola (Zambo City Vet), Regional Director Sitti Amina Jain (DTI-Region 9), Dr. Mario Ariola (Zambo City Vet), Undersecretary Waldo Carpio (DA-Office of Special Concerns), Enrique Hong ( Permex), Commercial Attache Katrina Banzon ( PTIC-KL), Benson Tanoja (MFP home of Quality Products/House of Polvoron), Charlotte Tanoja (MFP home of Quality Products/House of Polvoron), Nolet M. Fulgencio (Dept. of Agriculture Representative in Thailand), Lucky Eagan Pe Benito (Executive Assistant, DA Office of Special Concerns), Susan Empaynado (CAGAPA), Raison Arobinto (EMB), Chol Dela Paz (CITEM), Arselyn Palad (EMB), and Belteshazzar Café (PTIC-KL).

24 Philippine Firms Bag Over $42M Trade Sales and Investment at World’s Largest Halal Trade Expo —Malaysia Twenty-four Philippine companies bagged more than US$42 million of export sales and investment leads from over 300 foreign buyers in the country’s participation in the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) held last April 3 to 6, 2019 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Led by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) and the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), 24 food and non-food companies showcased the Philippines’ top halal-certified products, as well as some of the country’s top tourism destinations, under a unified national pavilion. The Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone (ZAMBOECOZONE) generated a total of US$30.15 million worth of investment leads while halal products and services generated US$11.93 million of sales. Among the best-selling products under the HalalPhilippines’ pavilion were cassava chips, coconut water, virgin coconut oil,

turmeric brew and canned tuna. For non-food products, whitening soaps and perfumes sold the most. “We have been successful in our return to showcase our premier halal-certified products and make a statement that our country is ready to meet the demands of the growing global halal market,” said DTI-CITEM Executive Director Pauline Suaco-Juan. “The Philippines is the most visited country pavilion in MIHAS 2019 according to the organizers of MIHAS and was even visited by King of Malaysia Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah.” “Eleven out of 24 companies have participated in the event for the first time. This forms part of our mission to capacitate new Philippine companies for the export halal market,” added Suaco-Juan. MIHAS is considered the world’s largest halal event. It offers networking and business opportunities for halal exhibitors and buyers. In 2017, it welcomed over 22,000 trade visitors from more than 70 countries and generated record sales beyond RM1 Billion for 600 exhibitors. The four-day event was hosted by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) and organized by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) in association with the Halal Industry Development Corporation (HDC) and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia ( JAKIM).

Leveling Up Halal Exports in the Global Value Chain In a press conference, DTI expressed its aim to increase the country’s exports of halal products by 6 to 8 percent to around US$605 million in 2019, as it intensifies promotion efforts to gain a share of the 3.2-trillion US dollars world halal market. EMB Assistant Director Anthony Rivera said exports of halal products reached US$560 million in 2018 with 90 percent of these exports being food and non-alcoholic beverages. Other products exported are soap and detergents, pharmaceutical drugs, and cosmetics. As of April 2019, DTI estimates that the Philippines currently has more than a thousand halal-certified products. Suaco-Juan, likewise, invited food buyers and traders to join the upcoming IFEX Philippines, the country’s biggest export‐oriented food show, where they will put up a Halal pavilion to showcase a curated selection of these products. This participation under HalalPhilippines is organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) and Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), in partnership with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in Kuala Lumpur, Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Tourism (DOT) in Davao and DTI Regional Offices 9 and 12. ISSUE 63 — 059

The Summer Quarterly I The Briefing I Global Affairs

Filipino Caregiver Saves Holocaust Survivor, Receives Commendation —Israel

Holocaust survivor Missa Schindler with Philippine Ambassador Neal Imperial (left) and Ms. Sharmaine Fernandez (right) after the awarding ceremony on April 17, 20 19 at the Philippine Embassy. (Tel Aviv Philippine Embassy Photo)

“Our workers are the Philippines’ best ambassadors of goodwill here in Israel, and we are lucky to have about 24,000 living and working here at the moment,” Ambassador Imperial said. “They fulfill a vital role here, helping Israelis care for the elderly and infirm members of their families. Ms. Fernandez is an outstanding example of how, on a daily basis, Filipino caregivers do their best to make sure that their patients are given the best of care.” 060 — ISSUE 63

Filipino caregiver Charmaine Fernandez received a special citation from Ambassador to Israel Neal Imperial for her bravery and quick action which helped save her employer, a Holocaust survivor, from being run over by a wayward vehicle in a ceremony at the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv on April 17, 2019. According to Dr. Abraham Schindler, the son of Ms. Fernandez’ employer, the Filipina caregiver was walking on a pedestrian lane with 95-year-old Missa Schindler when a speeding vehicle came toward them. Ms. Fernandez quickly shielded Ms. Schindler with her own body, protecting her from harm. The driver managed to bring the car to a halt within inches of the two women, crushing Ms. Schindler’s walker. He was later detained by the police. Dr. Schindler later contacted the Embassy to report the incident and convey his gratitude. He shared that Ms. Fernandez’s instinct to protect his mother had brought back memories of his own touching encounter with Filipinos, this time as a recipient of urgent care from Filipino medical personnel when he was attacked by a mob in Libya in the 1960s. Ambassador Imperial welcomed Ms. Fernandez at the Embassy that morning to hand over the citation, with Ms. Schindler and her son proudly watching. In the citation, Ambassasdor Imperial commended Ms. Fernandez’ “selfless display of courage beyond the call of duty,” adding that her example “has elevated the dignity of Filipino caregivers in Israel and has given honor to all Filipino workers in the world.” “Our workers are the Philippines’ best ambassadors of goodwill here in Israel, and we are lucky to have about 24,000 living and working here at the moment,” Ambassador Imperial said. “They fulfill a vital role here, helping Israelis care for the elderly and infirm members of their families. Ms. Fernandez is an outstanding example of how, on a daily basis, Filipino caregivers do their best to make sure that their patients are given the best of care.” During their call, the Schindler family was warmed to hear the story of how the Philippines provided a safe haven for Jews fleeing persecution in the 1930s through the Open Door policy of then President Manuel L. Quezon. Ms. Schindler, who was brought from Italian-occupied Libya to a concentration camp in Germany in the 1940s, is herself a Holocaust survivor. The collaboration of the Filipinos and Jews is enshrined today at the Rishon Lezion Monument Park and remains a symbol of Filipino humanitarian assistance during the Holocaust.

The Summer Quarterly I The Briefing I Global Affairs Hundreds of Filipinos and non-Filipinos attends the first-ever Filipino festival at Atallah Happy Land Park in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. (Jeddah PCG Photo)

Filipino Community in Jeddah Makes History with First Saudi Approved Filipino Festival —Saudi Arabia The Filipino Community in Jeddah made history on April 6, 2019 when they converged at Atallah Happy Land Park for the first-ever Filipino festival approved by the Saudi Arabia, entitled “Mabuhay Manila: Sama Saya sa Happy Land sa Jeddah”. The whole-day festivity spearheaded by the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, included the first-ever Filipino Food Festival, which showcased the rich and vibrant culinary experience and heritage of the Philippines through food exhibits and cooking demonstrations by top Filipino chefs in Jeddah. More than a thousand Filipinos and nonFilipinos trooped to Happy Land to take part in the historic event, which was made possible with the support of Atallah Happy Land Park and Filipino Community based group Amore Familiare. Original Pilipino music were also played during the live performances of Filipino bands during the Rock and Jam concert, which aimed to promote original Filipino music and talents to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Filipino celebrity Piolo Pascual also held a solo concert at the event. He thrilled the Filipino and non-Filipino audience with popular love songs.

In line with the celebration of Filipino food month, the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah organize the first Filipino Food Festival at Atallah Happy Land Park. (Jeddah PCG Photo)

This is the first time that a major Filipino concert was held publicly, with the approval by the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), the Saudi government agency tasked to oversee the entertainment initiatives in Saudi Arabia to diversify and enrich the country’s entertainment experience, which is among the pillars of the Kingdom’s vision 2030. Consul General to Jeddah Edgar B. Badajos said that the all-Filipino set of activities is a testament to how Saudi Arabia is starting to open and develop its tourism and entertainment industry to the world. Activities such as the Filipino Food Festival, Filipino rock band performances, and the Piolo Pascual concert are timely opportunities for the Philippines to promote Filipino cuisine, music, talent, and culture in Saudi Arabia.

Consul General to Jeddah Edgar B. Badajos (rightmost) with Filipino celebrity Piolo Pascual (2nd from left), and General Entertainment Authority (GEA) officials at the closing of Mr. Pascual’s concert in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. (Jeddah PCG Photo) ISSUE 63 — 061

The Summer Quarterly I The Briefing I Global Affairs

Consul Arman R. Talbo (2nd row, center) together with the participants, organizers, and volunteers during the workshop. (New York PCG Photo)

Filipino-American High School Leadership Workshop Held at Harvard University —United States of America Thirty two young Filipino-American students from all over the New England states attend the Filipino-American High School Leadership Workshop held at the Sever Hall of Harvard University. The one-day leadership conference featured panels, workshops, and activities where the participating high school students interfaced with young Filipino-American professionals and college students as they discussed their Filipino roots, culture, and traditions and how these impact their student life and future careers. The event was organized and presented by the Philippine American Mainstream Advocacy for Nonpartisan Associations, Inc. (PAMANA), in partnership with the Philippine Consulate General in New York, and the Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO). FYLPRO alumna Atty. Jennifer Coliflores Rosenthal and Philjay Somera Solar co-chaired the planning and preparations for the event, which is a first of its kind in the area. They said that the workshop is part of their giving-back project for the community which they hope would empower the Filipino youth and allow their Filipino identity to shine as they pursue their studies. 062 — ISSUE 63

The participants present their ideal Philippine Cultural Center design which they designed as part of a workshop activity. (PAMANA Photo)

In his remarks, Consul Arman R. Talbo shared the recent developments and positive news from the Philippines and discussed the services and projects of the Consulate General which benefit the Filipino youth and their families. He likewise encouraged the young students to pursue their degrees in college and fulfill their destiny as the hope and future of the country. Emmy-nominated anchor for MBC10 Boston Joy Lim Nakrin was the keynote speaker, where she shared her inspiring experiences as well as the challenges she faced as Filipino-American lawyer and media practitioner. She said that at their age, it is normal for high school students to not fully know what career to pursue but they should take into consideration their passion when deciding and preparing themselves for the future.

(Left to right) Consul Arman R. Talbo wih panelists Czara Venegas, Ellie Tiglao, Dr. Renzo Guinto, Alyanna Tenorio, and Michael Bea, a FYLPRO alumnus. The panel discussed the topic, “What is your Filipino Story”. (Pamana Photo)

The Summer Quarterly I The Briefing I Global Affairs

Early Photographs of Filipinos on Exhibit at the Louvre Abu Dhabi —United Arab Emirates Early photographs of Filipinos are among those on display at the Louvre Abu Dhabi from April 25 to July 13, 2019, as part of the museum’s first photography exhibition. Entitled “Photographs 1842 - 1896: An Early Album of the World”, the exhibition includes more than 250 of the earliest photographs taken from across the world. Among other highlights, the exhibit displayed historic photographs from the Philippines, including works by Pedro Picon, the creator of one of the earliest photographs in the country. An album from musée du quaiBranly–JacquesChirac, which is presented in the exhibition, contains an early selection of studio portraits of Filipino subjects in visiting-card format. Louvre Abu Dhabi Director Manuel Rabaté said that the exhibition “explores the role of photography in enabling the sharing of photographs from around the world, documenting people’s lives and environments. Pioneering photographers played a key role in making other cultures visible and accessible to people back home.” The exhibit is organized by Louvre Abu Dhabi, musée du quaiBranly –Jacques Chirac and Agence France-Muséums, and sponsored by the Bank of Sharjah. For more information on the exhibit, visit https://www.LouvreAbuDhabi.ae. A portrait of a Filipino woman, from a series of portraits of Filipinos in 1865 by Pedro Picon, is among early photographs ondisplay at the Louvre Abu Dhabi.(Louvre Abu Dhabi and musée du quaiBranly – Jacques Chirac Photo)

Painters’ Group Holds Art Exhibition in Paris —France Filipino painters Marie Expert, Dhon De La Paz and Francis Eric Dimarucut, and Cris have come together to form the artistic group “Kwadro Pintura”, and successfully opened their first contemporary art exhibition of Paris. As an expression of the Embassy’s support, Ambassador to France Maria Theresa P. Lazaro was present for the ceremonial ribbon-cutting of the exhibition which was held on April 27, 2019 at the Arbilo Gallery in Paris’ 15th Arrondissement. Apart from showcasing Filipino talent, the exhibition also highlighted Philippine culture as the artists chose several Filipinoinspired subjects that reflected their past experiences in the Philippines or their views on current events.

Ambassador to France Ma. Theresa Lazaro cuts the ribbon to officially open the exhibition “IlusKwadro” with Filipino artists (from left) Cris, Dhon De La Paz, Marie Expert and Francis Eric Dimarucut. (Paris Philippine Embassy Photo)

“We are very happy to learn of the creation of Kwadro Pintura and to hear of the group’s plan in support of Filipino artists in France and in Europe and to promote our country in this region. The artworks I have seen here are remarkable. I have no doubt that with the group’s efforts in support of each other, Filipino artistry and talent will be recognized on a much larger scale in the very near future,” Ambassador Lazaro said. The exhibition ran until May 3, 2019 at Arbilo Gallery at 15 rue Alasseur 75015, Le Village Suisse, Paris. ISSUE 63 — 063

The Summer Quarterly I Business I The Economy

#1 SOUTH KOREA 519,584

#2 CHINA 4 63,80 4

#3 USA 293,780

Department of Tourism Reports 7.6% Increase in Foreign Tourist Arrivals for 1st Quarter of 2019

In third spot is USA, registering 293,780 visitors, up by 3.10 percent from last year. Completing the top 12 markets for the three-month period are: Japan, 177,769; Taiwan, 77,908; Australia, 73,147; Canada, 72,352; United Kingdom, 53,402; Singapore, 39,484; Malaysia, 37,651; India, 36,275; and Germany, 33,725.

Record-high international tourist arrivals posted in the first quarter of the year present an encouraging sign that Philippine tourism is on the right track, the Department of Tourism (DOT) says. The country welcomed 2,204,564 foreign visitors in the first three months of 2019, reflecting a 7.59 percent rise from last year’s 2,049,094 over the same period. DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo Puyat said, “The DOT is working on enhancing our tourism products and tourism infrastructure to entice tourists to choose the Philippines as their next destination.” South Korea remains the top source market with 519,584 tourist arrivals compared to last year’s 477,087. The period also saw the Chinese market ranking second, posting a 463,804 total, 24.87 percent higher than the previous year’s tally of 371,429. Meanwhile, Taiwanese visitors grew to 77,908 from 59,877 in 2018, posting the highest percentage increase of 30.11 percent for the period in review.

March Figures For March numbers alone, the DOT reports a visitor arrival of 714,309 or an 11.13 percent growth versus the same month last year. Notably, France entered the top 12 for the month of March, posting 10,715 visitors, a 26.21 percent growth from last year’s March tally of 8,489 while Germany rose to 11th place with 11,075 visitors, sporting a 9 percent increase. It nudged India to 13th place, with a total of 10,086, up slightly with a 1.52 percent increase vis-a-vis 9,935 of last year. Visiting Philippine passport-holders permanently residing abroad (not including overseas Filipino workers), otherwise known as “balikbayans,” totaled 14,610 as of March. Secretary Puyat noted that the rehabilitated Boracay Island, touted as a model of sustainable tourism development, has attracted a growing number of visitors since reopening in October last year. The DOT chief also credited improved connectivity for the upward trend in tourist arrivals to the country.

#4 JAPAN 177,769

#5 TAIWAN 77,90 8

#6 AUS TRALIA 73,14 7

#7 CANADA 72,352

#8 UNITED KINGDOM 53,4 0 2

#9 SINGAPORE 39,4 84

#10 MALAYSIA 37,651

#11 INDIA 36,275

#12 GERMANY 33,725 064 — ISSUE 63

A well-informed community is a thriving community.

Your community. Your news. Your journal. Since 1991.

ASIANJOURNALMEDIAGROUP.com I ASIANJOURNAL.com I INFO@ASIANJOURNALINC.com

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 065

The Summer Quarterly I Tourism I Business

TPB Regional Travel Fair Paves the Way for Sustainable Tourism and Domestic Tourism Growth This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Regional Travel Fair provided an opportunity for participants to network and showcase domestic tour packages to further increase nationwide domestic tourist arrival and receipts while promoting sustainable tourism in private-public initiatives and programs. Anchoring on sustainability and focusing more on the promotion of domestic tourism in the country, this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Regional Travel Fair successfully concluded at SM Clark in Pampanga after four days of jam-packed activities including a pre-event tour, forum, business-to-business sessions, and a two-day business-to-consumer exhibit. Spearheaded by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the marketing arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), the regional travel fair provided an opportunity for participants to take part in a social tourism program, network and sell domestic tour packages, products and services, and learn new marketing strategies and know-hows to improve businesses. Now on its fourth run, the regional travel fair continues to open doors for domestic tourism as it aims to encourage more and more Filipinos to explore and discover the beauty of the Philippines. 066 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

PHILBEX The Philippine Building and Construction Exposition

CEBU

SEPTEMBER 12 - 15, 2019 10:00 AM TO 8:00 PM

philbexcebu.com

Supported by:

+ 632 656 9239 inquire@worldbexevents.com

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 067

The Summer Quarterly I Tourism I Business

Learning and Doing Business: More Fun in the Philippines The Regional Travel Fair featured local products and highlighted the work of artisans and weavers from places like Tacloban, Southern Cotabato, and Kalinga. Aside from the product showcase, a two-day business-to-consumer (B2C) expo was also conducted involving exhibitors composed of domestic and resort tour operators, hoteliers and airline companies marketing travel deals, special fares, exclusive discount packages and promos. Participating buyers and sellers were also given the opportunity to network and discuss business opportunities to generate leads and increase sales through travel exchange. One of the highlights was the speaker forum organized for industry experts to share their insights on pivotal topics. Christine Mansinares of the Negros Occidental Provincial Tourism office spoke of empowering communities through social tourism entrepreneurship. Domestic Department Officer-inCharge, Nerissa Juan, talked about “Gender and Tourism” as well as travel trends and the fast growth of tourism especially in the Asia Pacific. According to Juan, domestic tourism expenditures in the Philippines grew from PHP 2.1 billion in 2016 to PHP 2.6 billion in 2017, marking a 25.5 percent increase. Data also states that 42 million Filipinos travel to domestic destinations with 65 percent traveling mainly for pleasure. 068 — ISSUE 63

Meanwhile, Jose Luis Yulo Jr., President of the Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine Islands, delved deeper into the fundamentals of MICE or Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Events/Exhibits and its contribution to the Philippine tourism industry in his talk entitled, “MICE 101.” Championing Sustainability At the core of the four-day regional travel fair is sustainable tourism, a means of travel that brings positive impact to the environment, culture and the economy to benefit future generations. As a way to practice and impose sustainability on travel professionals, TPB arranged an immersion that allowed participants to farm and build houses through a partnership with Gawad Kalinga (GK) Community Development Foundation. The concept of responsible and sustainable tourism was also emphasized all throughout the event to help increase interest from both domestic and foreign travelers in the country. In her speech, TPB Chief Operating Officer Marie Venus Tan noted how past tourism marketing strategies were solely focused on the promotion of destinations to attract short and long haul visitors in the country. Now that the travel trends have changed due to globalization and advancement of technology, travel interests have also shifted with the need to find a more immersive and authentic travel experience.

WORLD OF CONSUMER ELECTRONICS EXPO

e c n e i r e Exputure the F SEPTEMBER 26 - 29, 2019 10:00 AM TO 8:00 PM

WORLD TRADE CENTER METRO MANILA wocee. ph

Supported by:

+ 632 656 9239 inquire@worldbexevents.com

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 069

The Summer Quarterly I Tourism I Business COO Tan also pointed out that travel trends now lean more on sustainable and responsible tourism not only in the Philippines but across the globe as a way to limit the harm humans can do to the environment whenever they travel. “TPB’s role is to translate sustainable and responsible tourism into travel, promotion, and marketing,” she said. “The new marketing direction is now solely focused on the Philippines: who we are, what we are, and how beautiful the country really is.” For the Philippines to be able to outshine other Asian countries, TPB aims to build up on authentic Filipino culture and gastronomy, plus the nation’s strengths and assets that make it unique, such as the world-famous Filipino smile and hospitality. Moreover, COO Tan also put emphasis on Responsible, Ethical and Sustainable Tourism (REST) by covering experienced-based tourism approaches such as eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural tourism. In support of this advocacy, TPB launched the first Sustainable Community-Based Tourism Recognition (SCBTR), which aims to identify outstanding communities or destinations that practice sustainable tourism. COO Tan personally presented the criteria, objectives, timeline, and panel of assessors while stressing that all efforts should observe REST to be able to qualify. Onward to the Next Regional Travel Fair A turnover ceremony led by Crisel Mae Yambao, a representative of DOT Region III and Elaine Unchuan, the regional director of DOT Region X, took place to formally launch the next Regional Travel Fair, which will be held in Cagayan de Oro this coming August. TPB will again lead the pack with the hope of putting Mindanao, its products and its people at the forefront of domestic tourism and to provide a venue for industry players and stakeholders to do business with the aim of increasing the number of domestic travelers. With sustainable tourism as the main focus of the country’s tourism campaign, TPB looks forward to strengthening its pillars for both local and international travelers to find more reasons to explore the country and experience for themselves why it’s indeed more fun in the Philippines. 070 — ISSUE 63

WORLD OF SAFETY AND SECURITY EXPO

e c n e i r e Exp ssurance the A

SEPTEMBER 26 - 29, 2019 10:00 AM TO 8:00 PM

WORLD TRADE CENTER METRO MANILA wosas. ph

Supported Supported by: by:

+ 632 656 9239 + 632 656 9239

inquire@worldbexevents.com worldbex

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 071

The Summer Quarterly I The Economy I Business

Real Estate Remains the Most Preferred Investment for Overseas Filipinos —Portfolio writer Ritchel Mendiola

A recent survey by the New Perspective Media Group revealed that up to 80 percent of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the United Arab Emirates and the Gulf are considering buying property in the Philippines within the next 12 months. According to the poll taken by 10,000 Filipino expats, property is the most preferred investment with 55 percent, followed by franchised business or start-up business with 25 percent. Savings account and money market funds (mutual funds) were third with 15 percent, while insurance (3 percent) and gold (2 percent) were fourth and fifth, respectively. 072 — ISSUE 63

More than half of the 5,500 respondents who answered property as their preferred investment said they plan on purchasing properties within the next 12 months. The survey also released the 10 most preferred locations for property investments by Filipino expats in the UAE, with Manila topping the list with 53 percent. This is followed by Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, and Davao. Cebu placed 6th, followed by Ilo-ilo, Bacolod, Pampanga, and Bulacan. Dr Karen Remo, co-founder and managing director of New Perspective Media Group, stated that the Philippines “continues to be one of the fastest growing economies in the world, with increasing urbanization, a growing middle-income class, and a large and young population.” “This positive trend comes at a time when more and more Filipino investors are getting into the property market, either as first time or repeat investors. The culture of acquiring property is spreading fast among Filipinos back home and those residing overseas, as this becomes one of the fastest and safest means to accumulate wealth,” she said.

LOOKING TO SELL OR DEVELOP YOUR PROPERTY IN THE PHILIPPINES? Whether you’re looking to sell your property or interested in exploring a joint venture development project, partner with us and discover ways you can build your investment portfolio. WWW.PREMIERASIAPACIFIC.COM INFO@PREMIERASIAPACIFIC.COM MS.GERALOU SAGUN (213) 291-8688 (213) 596-5970 (213) 718-220 1

1) Agricultural 2) Residential 3) Commercial 4 ) Industrial ISSUE 63 — 073

The Summer Quarterly I The Economy I Business

“Over the last few years, too, an increasing number of foreign investors all over the world, and noticeably from the Middle East, have taken advantage of the massive growth potential that the Philippines has to offer,” she added. Duane Santos, General Manager and Executive Vice President of Greenfield Development Corporation, backed the sentiment, sharing that Dubai is one of the biggest markets for their sales overseas. According to Thomas Mirasol, General Manager of Federal Land, Incorporated, the Philippines “has long been an attractive market” when it comes to investments. He also noted that Manila, in particular, rates higher than Taipei, Auckland, and Kuala Lumpur based on a joint survey by PwC and the Urban Land Institute entitled “Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2019.” “Rental rates and capital values continue to do well as vacancies continue to remain low. Despite increasing prices, costs overall are much more affordable than key cities in the region so investment decisions are relatively easy,” he said. Adel Al Fahim, Chairman of Al Fahim IMC Holding which invested in the Philippines back in 2007 and has since developed 074 — ISSUE 63

According to the poll taken by 10,000 Filipino expats, property is the most preferred investment with 55 percent, followed by

franchised business or start-up business with 25 percent. Savings account and money market funds (mutual funds) were third with 15 percent, while insurance (3 percent) and gold (2 percent) were fourth and fifth, respectively.

two condominiums in the country, gave out a testament, saying the Philippines is a “rapidly growing country that has beautiful cities, is rich in resources, and the cost of living is quite reasonable.” “We saw an investment opportunity and took a decision to own a condo in the Philippines a few years ago. Owning a property is much easier with hassle-free processes, with provision of installments and it garners a good return on investments. The investment made earlier has been prolific and I personally look forward to future investments in the country,” he divulged. Meanwhile, Manuel Arbues II, Regional Head for North America and the Middle East of Ayala Land International Sales, Incorporated (ALISI) revealed that their company posted an average yearly sales growth of almost 20 percent from the UAE for the last five years. “For the most part, we attribute this growth to the increase in financial awareness among overseas Filipinos in the UAE. Likewise, due to many opportunities opening up for overseas Filipinos, they are in a better position to prepare for their future and real estate investment is their top choice,” Arbues said.

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 075

The Summer Quarterly I The Economy I Business

Manila, the World’s Hottest Luxury Home Market —Portfolio writer Ritchel Mendiola

According to property consultancy Knight Frank, Manila is the hottest luxury home market in the world — besting other popular luxury housing cities around the globe such as Boston, Tokyo and Paris. Manila’s robust economy, shortage of luxury homes and increased demand for them by wealthy foreigners are key to the price increase of 11 percent that the capital city of the Philippines experienced in 2018. The ranking of 100 cities is based solely on the growth of their luxury home prices last year — with Singapore as the only other Asian city to take a spot in the top 10. Its price increase of 9.1 percent placed 7th in the list. Boston came in 8th with its 8.6 percent, whereas Tokyo took the 11th spot with its 6.8 percent. Meanwhile, Paris ranked 19th place with its 5.3 percent. Manila’s annual GDP of 6 percent last year was cited by Knight Frank as one of the factors that “motivated some expatriates to grab a slice of real estate back home.” The property consultancy, however, noted that Manila’s percentage rise was still considerably lower than previous top-performing markets — which grew by at least 21 percent — despite topping the list. This can be attributed to the end of the ultra-low interest rates era that began boosting real estate markets globally in 2008. “While Manila’s 11 per cent growth is far from the norm for the city, it confirms the theory that outliers are disappearing, and we are moving to a period of slower price growth. Within Asia-Pacific, a slowdown from a 4.9 per cent average growth rate in 2017 to 2.7 per cent in 2018 illustrates this trend,” Nicholas Holt, Knight Frank AsiaPacific head of research, said. 076 — ISSUE 63

Building more affordable homes had been the Philippine developers’ focus, as the demand for them was larger. “There are only four luxury residential projects in the pre-selling stage. Target completions are within the next five years,” said Jan Paul Custodio, senior director for research and consultancy at Santos Knight Frank. “Of the 700 units of luxury residential apartments floated, 93 per cent have already been absorbed as of 2018. Post-selling luxury projects, on the other hand, are 95 per cent sold, with less than 15 units available,” he added. He also said that Manila’s luxury homes market decline in 2018 was mainly attributed to the limited remaining inventory in the market. It drew 6.5 billion pesos (US$125.1 million) in investments versus the 10 billion pesos it garnered in 2017. The Estate Makati, a joint project of firms owned by the Philippines’ two wealthiest families, with 180 prime residential units broke ground in late January, however — adding supply to the market. It is expected to command higher prices. “The price increase was largest in Makati, where less than 1 percent of floated inventory remains unsold,” Custodio said. He added that the demand is mainly coming from expatriates and high net worth locals.

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 077

The Summer Quarterly I The Economy I Business

The Future of Metro-Manila’s Railway Network writer Ritchel Mendiola

Commuting has always been a daily part in a Filipino’s everyday routine, and with it, comes the never-ending complaints and frustrations about the state of public transportation in Metro Manila. In 2017, a study called “Unlocking Cities,” done by global firm Boston Consulting Group (BCG) placed the Philippines’ capital region as the 3rd worst in traffic in Southeast Asia, with an average of 66 minutes stuck in traffic daily. Japan International Cooperation Agency ( Jica), meanwhile, revealed last year that the worsening traffic in Metro Manila costs P3.5 billion in lost opportunities per day. Things are quite looking up though, as efforts to alleviate traffic congestion in Metro Manila are currently being planned and implemented — from new bus rapid transit lines to new railways and extensions to existing ones. 078 — ISSUE 63

NEW NITRO COLD BREW WITH VANILLA SWEET CREAM

BEGIN A NEW COFFEE ADVENTURE NEW TRIPLE CITRUS COLD BREW

VISIT W W W.STARBUCKS.PH FOR MORE DETAILS.

ISSUE 63 — 079

The Summer Quarterly I The Economy I Business A SkyscraperCity.com forum user that goes by the name OctaviusIII uploaded a render of a map showing the network of existing, underway, and planned railways and BRT lines in Metro Manila to provide a glimpse on how Manila’s future railway network will look like. Aside from LRT-1, LRT-2, MRT-3, and PNR, the map includes: 01 The LRT-1 Extension, which started its construction in the middle of 2018. The 11.7-kilometer Cavite extension, with its eight new stations, will link with the existing system immediately south of the Baclaran Station, and run all the way to Niog, Cavite. Target date for its completion is in 2021. 02 The LRT-2 East Extension, which will reduce travel time from Recto to Masinag to 40 minutes compared to the usual travel of up to three hours in the same route by bus or jeepneys. The 4.0-kilometer extension of the existing LRT2 System is set to be operational in the first quarter of 2019. 03 The LRT-4, which hopes to link densely populated areas in Taytay, Rizal, and the Ortigas Business District. The proposed 20-kilometer project used to be part of the Public Private Partnership program under the Aquino administration. 04 The MRT-5, or the Metro Manila Subway, which will be the country’s first subway. The about 30-kilometer underground railroad would run from Mindanao Avenue in Quezon City to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport across 14 stations — with the possible extension of one to two more stations being planned by the Department of Transportation. The target completion for its first three stations is in May 2022. 05 The LRT-6, which involves the construction of a 19-kilometer railway from Niyog in Bacoor to Dasmariñas City in Cavite province. It’s planned to start its construction in 2016 and be operational in 2021, but the prequalification process for the project was delayed in 2016. 06 The MRT-7, which is a 22-kilometer rail transit system with 14 stations connecting North Avenue in Quezon City to San Jose del Monte in Bulacan. It serve commuters who ply the heavily congested Commonwealth Avenue area for work and school on a daily basis and help decongest traffic in Caloocan and NLEX. Construction is already underway, and its completion is expected by 2019. 07 The PNR Northrail, which would extend the line in Manila northward to Bulacan province. The P225-billion railway project would lessen the travel time to Clark International Airport from Metro Manila to 55 minutes. It is expected to be completed in 2020.

080 — ISSUE 63

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 081

The Summer Quarterly I Entrepreneur I Business

Manila Ranks in the 2019 Global Startup Ecosystem Report The Manila startup ecosystem ranked high in five categories in the Global Startup Ecosystem Report (#GSER2019) released recently by Startup Genome, a provider of innovation policy advisory services, research services and content. In the report, Manila was identified as one of the top Activation Phase Ecosystems in the world, together with Taipei City, Busan, Calgary, and Frankfurt. As a result of the analysis, Manila got the following rankings: Top 10 in the global ecosystem for Bang for Buck — Top 5 in the Activation Ecosystem for Connectedness Manila also received the following indices based on these Ecosystem Deep Dive Key Metrics: 5th scale for Exit Growth Index 6th scale on Output Growth Index and 9th scale on Funding Growth Index. The indices were measured in a scale of 1-10 where 10 is the highest tier of growth observed and 1 is the lowest. It also highlighted Manila’s Subsector strength—Fintech, which comprises 15% of the Manila startup scene. According to the report, the Philippines’ Fintech transaction value reached roughly $5.7 billion last year and is expected to nearly double to $10.5 billion by 2022.

082 — ISSUE 63

It was reported that the First Circle, a Philippine-based financial technology lender that provides strong businesses with supply chain financing to meet larger client demands and improve bargaining position with trading partners, was able to raise $26 million in 2018. Also, Coins.ph was acquired for $72 million this year and Voyager Innovations was acquired for $215 million in 2018. Moreover, the Bang for Buck badge is given to companies who are getting more value for the average funding amount startups will get in the ecosystem. Specifically, Startup Genome measures this as the ratio of the average Early-Stage Funding per Startup by the average Software Engineer Salary in the ecosystem. This means, with an average funding a startup gets in this ecosystem, a startup should be able to hire more software engineers for one year. In the Activation Ecosystem for Connectedness, Manila is included in the top 5 for Local Connectedness: meaning, there is a Sense of Community that founders informally receive help from investors, experts, and fellow founders; Founder Relationships wherein it measures the number of quality relationships between local founders; and Collision Index which assesses log of number of local tech events and density of tech events. The Exit Growth Index measures tech startup exits in the ecosystem from 20152016 to 2017-2018. On the other hand, Output Growth Index assesses the total startup creation in the ecosystem, calculated in an annualized growth rate from 2014 to 2018. Furthermore, the Funding Growth Index captures the Index of growth in early-stage funding in tech startups in the ecosystem from 2014-2015 to 2016-2017. It was also found out that Manila has an

experienced pool of tech talent with its reputable outsourcing industry, and a pool of talent from the country’s different universities, and robust English-language skills. It gives founders access to employees that are skilled and knowledgeable. The report also highlighted the strong legal and regulatory support startups in the Philippines get through the Youth Entrepreneurship Act Program, Philippine Innovation Act, and the Innovative Startup Act. The Youth Entrepreneurship Act Program promotes finance and startup skills while the Philippine Innovation Act and the Innovative Startup Act intend to cultivate an innovative entrepreneurial culture and promote the development and growth of innovation and startups. The inclusion of the Manila startup ecosystem in the report was made possible through the initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Startup Ecosystem Development Program (SEDP), rebranded as Startup Pilipinas. This is a five-point program that aims to foster inter-enterprise linkages among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and strengthen collaborative networks. Through this action plan, the Philippine Government aims to create high-growth and high-impact startups that will nurture innovation, sustain economic growth, and generate large-scale job opportunities. #GSER2019 is the world’s most comprehensive and widely-read research on startup ecosystems, and offers the very first global ranking of Life Sciences ecosystems, in partnership with Hello Tomorrow. It is based on primary and secondary data from over 10,000 founders and more than one million companies across over150 cities worldwide. To download the full report, visit https:// startupgenome.com/gser2019.

This article is from the Department of Trade & Industry of the Philippines

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 083

The Summer Quarterly I Science I Features

Homo Luzonensis: New Human Species Discovered in the Philippines writer Ritchel Mendiola

Fossilized remains of individuals discovered by an international team, led by a Filipino professor, have revealed a new human cousin that may have roamed parts of the Philippines some 50,000 years ago. In a study released Thursday by British multidisciplinary scientific journal Nature, scientists detail fossils of bones and teeth of at least three individuals excavated separately in 2007, 2011 and 2015. The fossils —which were recovered three meters below the surface of the cave floor in Callao Cave on the island of Luzon—were two hand bones, two foot bones, one femur and six maxillary teeth. 084 — ISSUE 63

There are now over 1.42 million registered businesses in the Philippines. From January to May of 2019, more than 30,000 businesses were registered. That’s growth. And that’s competition. Get discovered and promote your business today on the LoveOfCountry.ph directory.

ISSUE 63 — 085

The Summer Quarterly I Science I Features

Analysis of the bones from Luzon showed that the new species had unusually primitive features that resembled both the Australopithecus and the more modern ones similar to Homo sapiens. “What we have right now is a mosaic of archaic, Australopithecine-type features in both the teeth and the bones and some homo sapien derived features, so it’s a combination. With that it cannot be Homo sapiens, it has to be a new species. So that now, we introduced the new species as Homo luzonensis,” said study coauthor and project leader Armand Mijares, an archaeologist at the University of the Philippines Diliman. Mijares led the team comprised of members that include paleoanthropologist Florent Détroit of France’s National Museum of Natural History, zooarchaeologist Philip Piper of the Australian National University, and geochronologist Rainer Grün of Australia’s Griffith University. The researchers further explained how the Homo luzonensis’ mosaic of structural traits distinguish it from other species of the genus Homo, especially from the contemporary species known in Southeast Asia such as Homo sapiens and Homo floresiensis, which was discovered in Indonesia in 2004. 086 — ISSUE 63

“For instance, the upper molars of Homo luzonensis more closely resemble those of Homo sapiens than other Late Pleistocene homonin species, but the molars of the new species are still much smaller. Because of their extremely small size and simplified crown morphology, they also vary remarkably from those of Asian Homo erectus and Denisovan hominins,” they said. Homo luzonensis, derived from a standard geographic taxonomy convention indicating that the species was first found in Luzon, is the fourth human species to be discovered in Asia, along with the Homo erectus, Homo sapiens, and Homo floresiensis. A Game Changer With the discovery of Homo luzonensis, the outdated idea that the human line neatly progressed from less advanced to more advanced species is once again being challenged. Homo erectus is considered the first Homo species to have expanded beyond Africa. It is an earlier human relative from which the hobbits on the Indonesian island descended, as suggested by scientists. However, one expert, named Matthew Tocheri from Lakehead University in

Thunder Bay, Ontario, theorized that some unknown creature other than Homo erectus might have slipped out of Africa and into Europe and Asia, and later gave rise to both species found in Indonesia and Philippines. Mijares, for his part, said the discovery underscores the significance of the Philippines in human evolutionary research. “Before the discovery of this new species, we [the Philippines] are always in the periphery of human evolution debate. We are now one of the regional centers for human evolutionary research,” he said. National Museum director Jeremy Barns echoed the sentiment, describing the discovery as a major event in the history of science in the Philippines. “This is a game changer that everyone must take note of — that the Philippines is put on the map,” he said. “Our sites are deserving of higher importance and that’s a testament to the efforts of our archaeologists throughout the decades, to really promote awareness and acknowledge the importance of Philippine sites,” he added. images courtesy of Callao Cave Archaeology Project

INVESTMENT

VACATION

RETIREMENT

www.BALIK BAYA N P R O G R A M . c o m NORTH AMERICA I EUROPE I MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA I ASIA I AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND I SOUTH AMERICA

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 087

The Summer Quarterly I Fashion I Lifestyle

2019 Summer Fashion Trends writer Ritchel Mendiola

Summer has arrived in high temperatures and shades of gold, which means it’s time to augment your capsule wardrobe with new seasonal pieces. Some takeaways from the summer 2019 runways involve something lightweight, a touch frilly, and a splash of zest. Make sure you have these key looks in your radar to look your summery best. 01 Splash of Color Your grade school art project turned high fashion, the tie-dye emerged as a fashion favorite in the catwalk. Go for this print to give your outfit a psychedelic and totally ‘70s twist. 02 Cherry Bomb Switch your florals for something more fruity. The cherry pattern has been making a renaissance and appearing everywhere — from clothes to jewelries to tech accessories. Give your basics a rest and consider a cherry print to make your summer outfit look more fresh. 03 Featherweight One of this season’s trends is as frou-frou as they come. Designers reworked languid, smooth shapes with cascades of frills, crystal fringes, and fanciful feathers for a dramatic flourish. 04 Clipped Let your hair take the spotlight with colors and sparkles. Hair accessories from clips in the color of rainbow to chunky barrettes with studs and pearls are all the rage these days to give your locks a bout of feminine flair. 05 Utilitarian Balance fashion and function with boiler suits, combat trousers, and utilitarian jackets. Too stuffy? Worry not, loose jumpsuits both in pops of color and earth tones prevailed on the runways — giving you enough air to combat the summer heat. 06 A Bucketful Fisherman or fashion? This retro hat is making a comeback to protect your head from the summer sun. Pick something with a quirky detail like ruffles or plaid pattern to make your outfit go from casual to stand out. 088 — ISSUE 63

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 089

The Summer Quarterly I Culture I Lifestyle “Basta anything popular dyan sa Japan,” we her friends said when asked what we wanted as pasalubong. Not so much of a surprise, she bought food as a pasalubong --an assortment of Japanese green tea, matcha milk tea mix, and Meiji chocolates! For us Filipinos who love to bond over food (and drinks), this kind of pasalubong our friend brought for us, is a good idea. And of course, a picturetaking session wasn’t remiss.

Food & Selfies: A Combination of What Filipinos Love writer Jennifer Soriano

Take a Filipino millennial to a restaurant or any place that concerns food, and chances are, you’ll be in for a selfie (with the food) — much so, if the food is instagram-worthy. “Uy, picture-an mo muna” (Hey, take a picture of it first), is a common retort after an invitation to start eating. Minutes later, you’ll see the photo uploaded on Instagram or Facebook. As much as we love eating, we Filipinos (particularly millennials) also love taking selfies or take photos of what we eat, thanks to the Instagram’s #foodporn craze and Filipinos’ obsession with social media. We take pictures of our food or do selfies or groufies with our food for many underlying reasons, and sometimes it’s hard to recognize what are our real intentions are, or do we ever think about our intentions before we post photos of us with our food? Amor Propio Amor propio, which is a Spanish term for “self-love,” has been part of the Filipino culture, says sociologist F. Landa Jocano, professor emeritus of the University of the Philippines College of Sociology and Anthropology . This value have been possessed by our forebears which have been acquired from generation to generation. According to Jocano, Amor propio is reinforced when we behave properly, such as obeying the elders and extending hospitality. Perhaps, in the modern sense, Amor propio is at play when we post pictures of a selfie or group pictures with our food. Filipinos are socially competitive. But when do we say something is too much? And for Filipinos, it’s no wonder food is one of favorite subjects when we post pictures in instagram. 090 — ISSUE 63

Food takes the center stage Filipinos love to eat and in a socio-cultural context, they don’t just eat to fulfill their physical hunger, but is also considered a means for the social life to a nation known to be gregarious and hospitable. We Filipinos bond over food--it’s part of our culture, community, and of every celebration, big or small. For Filipinos, food is a part of the social norm. When we eat our baon (packed food), we say “kain tayo” (let’s eat), even to strangers and passerby, and even if the food we brought is barely enough for us. It’s simply unnatural for Filipino not to say so. This trait can be traced to our Filipino parents who have taught us to share our food with our playmates or classmates. This demonstrates what pakikisama, (camaraderie or getting along well with others ), a basic Filipino trait, looks like to a child. For the more mature Filipinos, in times we want to talk about serious things personal and both-- we sit down, talk, discuss and laugh, and cry things over during lunch time or merienda (snack) time or midnight snack. This brought me thinking over my recent catch up with my friends whom I haven’t seen for a while. One of them was on a short break on her professional studies in Japan.Of course, we her friends asked for a pasalubong before she travel to the Philippines and meet us.

Filipinos love for sharing food photos in social media For a country who consistently top surveys on numbers of selfies and remain active on social media, it’s important to distinguish what’s worth of a post and what’s not. Remember the quote, “Before you speak, think first if it’s true? Is it helpful? Is it inspiring? Is it necessary? Is it kind”? This, too, is applicable in the context of posting photos on the social. A good post is something that evokes positive emotions such as laughter, appreciation, and inspiration , and as the leading user of social media, Filipinos should reflect that kind of positive attitude in the cybersphere. Perhaps we can view food posts as a way sharing our food with the rest of the world of cybersphere. Consider a Filipino’s posting a photo with food can be perceived as a cyberspeak of “kain tayo.”

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 091

Subscribe today and receive 4 issues per year for $60 .

VOLUME 4 NUMBER 3

In Focus

MEDICAL TOURISM IN THE PHILIPPINES What you need to know

Analysis

The Cost of Healthcare HOW DOES THE PHILIPPINES COMPARE TO OTHER COUNTRIES?

THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE CAPITAL

DR. FE del MUNDO ——————

the economy

IS PANGASINAN READY FOR TAKEOFF?

The Artist

bangus

CARLYN NUYDA CALLOWAY ——————

NOT JUST ANOTHER FISH IN THE SEA

agriculture tourism

The Designer

DAVID TUPAZ —————— Real Estate VOLUME 4 NUMBER 2

APPLEONE PROPERTIES

Exploring the Treasures of

pangasinan Reviving Urduja

Icons

A COMING OF AGE

Escapes

OUR LADY’S CALL

Destinations

dasoland family adventure park

REDISCOVERING DIVING IN NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

VISITING MANAOG

RIZAL’S ROOTS

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN

GINA DE VENECIA

THE QUINTESSENTIAL FILIPINA

5 HOT SPOTS FOR A HEALTHY RECOVERY

US$

092 — ISSUE 63

AN UNEXPECTED EDEN

america in our hearts

A LANDMARK BOOK ON IMPORTANT FILIPINOS IN THE UNITED STATES

For inquiries, email Info@AsianJournalinc.com or visit BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.com. S P E C I A L A DV E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

I N - F O C U S : T H E F I R S T A N N UA L LOV E O F C O U N T RY G LO B A L A M B A S S A D O R S P R O G R A M S TA R T I N G I N T H E U S A

I N F O C U S : P R E S I D E N T D U T E R T E I N KS M O N U M E N TA L L E G I S L AT I V E M E A S U R E S

I N F O C U S : P R E S I D E N T X I J I N P I N G ’ S H I STO R I C V I S I T TO T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

The Philippines: A World Tourism Powerhouse

Indulge in Asia’s Top Luxury Hideaway Resort

Enriching Filipino Hospitality

N O. 62 I VOLUME 10 FEBRUARY I MARCH I APRIL 2019 SPRING QUARTERLY ISSUE

N O. 61 I VOLUME 09 NOVEMBER I DECEMBER I JANUARY 2018 WINTER QUARTERLY ISSUE

N O . 58 I VOLUME 09 FEBRUARY I MARCH I APRIL 2018 SPRING QUARTERLY ISSUE

BREATHTAKING WEDDING DES TINATIONS IN THE PHILIPPINES (AND THE ICONIC CHURCHES TO GET MARRIED IN) Inside This Issue

(1) Tourism Outlook & Development I (2) Lombard By The Bay I (3) Spring Fashion & Makeup Trends (4) The State of Marriage In The Philippines I (5) Amazing Weight-Loss Transformations (6) The Filipino Invention Saving The Environment & Your Money I (7) The Current Landscape Of Business In The Philippines (8) Goodbye Cash? I (9) Unconventional Date Ideas For Couples I (10) Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide (11) The Philippines Now Ranks #1 In Budget Transparency In All Of Asia ISSUE 58 — 01

ISSUE 61 — 01

SPECIAL REPORT: IS MEDICAL TOURISM THE RIGHT OPTION FOR YOU?

PORTFOLIO: THE 2017 INVESTMENT ISSUE

IN-FOCUS: THE BENEFITS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS AND RETIREES IN THE PHILIPPINES

S P E C I A L R E P O R T: T H E P H I L I P P I N E ’ S Q U E S T TO B E T H E B E S T D E S T I N AT I O N I N T H E WO R L D F O R M E D I C A L TO U R I S T S

Issue 56, Volume VIII I August - October 2017

Issue 55, Volume VIII I June & July 2017

Issue 54, Volume VIII

Issue 52, Volume VII

APRIL & MAY 2017

DECEMBER 2016 & JANUARY 2017

BUSINESS

How to balance work and summer vacation as a family.

AMAZING ESCAPES LIMA PARK HOTEL: REVEL IN EVERYTHING LUXURIOUS

GREAT ESCAPES 8 Things To Do In Davao DISCOVERY 72 Hours In Batanes PORTFOLIO Lombard By The Bay, The Next Big Thing In The Philippines THE ECONOMY A Tribute To Filipino Workers LEADERS Norman Agatep WINE & DINE Izakaya Kenta Japanese Restaurant

ON THE COVER

Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast Experience A Luxury Beach Lifestyle

AT LEISURE NURTURE WELLNESS VILLAGE: EVERY BALIKBAYAN’S SANCTUARY

INSIGHTS & ANALYSIS

Do you have what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur?

LEADERS Dr. Edgardo ‘Gary’ Cortez GREAT ESCAPES It’s More Fun In Batangas AESTHETIC How To Haggle Like A Filipino INVESTMENT Don’t Just Ask Why, Ask When RETIREMENT Staying Fit As We Age HEALTH Cost Analysis (USA vs Philippines) LIFESTYLE From Employee To Entrepreneur

ON THE COVER

St. Luke’s Medical Center

ISSUE 61 — 01

BUSINESS INSIGHTS & ANALYSIS: BECOMING A BETTER BUSINESS LEADER & INVESTOR

Issue 57, Volume VIII I November-January 2018

LEADERS

A Conversation with Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas

Q&A Pocholo Paragas, COO & GM of TIEZA CULTURE Religious Tourism on Limelight THE NATION The First PH Subway System FASHION Rene Salud BUSINESS Social Media Trends for 2018 HISTORY How Do Filipinos Celebrate Christmas? AMAZING ESCAPES Club Balai Isabel

ON THE COVER

Inside One Of The Best Medical Institutions In The World

Montemaria, Batangas, the Philippines

The Mother of All Asia and the Rise of Batangas’ Religious Tourism

CULTURE FILIPINO SUPERSTITIONS ON NEW YEAR’S EVE

Q&A JOJI GREGORIO: OFFICER-IN-CHARGE OF THE TOURISM PROMOTIONS BOARD

TECHNOLOGY STARMOBILE KNIGHT SPECTRA: A WORLD-CLASS FILIPINO FLAGSHIP SMARTPHONE

LEADERS GOVERNOR OF LA UNION, EMMANUEL “PACOY” ORTEGA III INDUSTRY RANG-AY BANK’S CEO, IVES NISCE BUSINESS 10 MODERN WAYS TO STAY FOCUSED AND PRODUCTIVE

RADAR

OUTLOOK

MANILA HOSTS MISS UNIVERSE

TRAVELER

THE PHILIPPINES, FILIPINOS, AND THE INCOMING TRUMP ADMINISTRATION

THE ECONOMY #NEWPHILIPPINES & THE MODERN LANDSCAPE

24 MUST DO’S FOR AN INCREDIBLE 2017 BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

INSIGHTS & ANALYSIS WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR

GREAT GETAWAYS 24 THINGS TO DO IN BATANGAS the asian journal’s bi-monthly briefing on the growth, development, and progression of the philippines. ISSUE 55 — 01

INSIDE: MORE THRILLING REASONS TO COMEBACK HOME

the asian journal’s quarterly briefing on the growth, development, and progression of theISSUE philippines. 56 — 01

the asian journal’s quarterly briefing on the growth, development, and progression of the philippines.

S P E C I A L R E P O R T: T H E E M E R G I N G M E D I C A L TO U R I S M I N D U S T RY I N T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

I s s u e 5 1 , Vo l u m e V I I OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2016

RESORTS WORLD MANILA BRINGS BACK THE BELOVED MUSICAL FEATURING AN ALL-FILIPINO CAST

SPECIAL IN-DEPTH FEATURE: PHINMA PROPERTY HOLDINGS CORPORATION

OUTLOOK: ALL THINGS CONSIDERED, THE INTRICACIES OF POLITICS

IN-DEPTH: THE GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY FOR THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY

Issue 47 , Volume VII FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

THE FORECAST: LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL, BUT FOR EVERYONE

Issue 47 , Volume VII

Issue 48, Volume VII

Issue 49, Volume VII

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

APRIL & MAY 2016

JUNE & JULY 2016

Where luxury meets serenity

ESSENCE OF PLACE SOUL SEARCHING: BALAY SAN JOSE

KEEPING A JOURNAL LABOR POLICY AS FOREIGN POLICY

DISCOVERY

INFRASTRUCTURE GETTING THERE

GREAT GETAWAYS TRAVERSING THE PHILIPPINE COUNTRYSIDE

COVER

THE ECONOMY 01 UNINTERRUPTED, ROBUST TOURISM GROWTH 02 MORE JOBS, MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES

OUTLOOK

FROM THE EXECUTIVE’S DESK ALEJANDRA “DADING” CLEMENTE

PIA WURTZBACH

PROFILES AMBASSADOR JOSE L. CUISA, JR.

TECHNOLOGY MARKETING TO THE MODERN FILIPINO

BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

INFRASTRUCTURE

TABLE FOR TWO

HEALTH

NOW CONNECTING: FREE WI-FI NATIONWIDE

WHERE TO CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY

EXERCISE TOGETHER, STAY TOGETHER

BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

THE PERFECT GETAWAY

GREAT ESCAPES 01 CATCHING THE PALAD SANDBAR 02 TIPS FOR A BUDGET TRAVELER

NEWSMAKERS

CALLAO CAVE

GUIDEBOOK

THE PHILIPPINE ECONOMY

ONE-ON-ONE WITH MISS UNIVERSE,

ADVENTURE WHAT TO PACK

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

TECHNOLOGY ARE WE MOVING FORWARD OR STANDING STILL?

ANOTHER UPGRADE FOR

ISABELA, STA. MARIA: THE STAR OF THE NORTH

CULTURE MALASIMBO: OF NATURE, MUSIC, & ARTS

AMAZING GETAWAYS 01 SHANGRI-LA, THE FORT 02 SHANGRI-LA, MACTAN

HISTORY PAL’S 75TH YEAR BRINGS LOS ANGELES TO CEBU FLIGHTS

RESTAURANTS & BARS 01 OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE 02 ABV: ALCOHOL BY VOLUME

BATANES PORTFOLIO

BALIKBAYANS+FRANCHISING: THE BUSINESS OWNER

INSIGHTS & ANALYSIS RETIREMENT, MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES

EXECUTIVE’S DESK RALPH SANTOS AND THE CASHLESS SOCIETY BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

I N S I D E : T H E S TAT E O F T H E E C O N O M Y

I N - F O C U S : A L P H A L A N D ’S T H E C I T Y C LU B A N D M A K AT I P L AC E

Issue 41, Volume VI

Issue 42, Volume VI

FEBRUARY / march 2015

APRIL / may 2015

AMORITA

DISCOVER BOHOL’S “LITTLE DARLING” AND BE CAPTIVATED BY PANGLAO’S BREATHTAKING CHARM

BALESIN

AN ISLAND HIDEAWAY IN THE TROPICAL PARADISE OF BUSUANGA, PALAWAN

INSIDE QUEZON PROVINCE’S EXCLUSIVE, LUXURY RESORT

MALASIMBO

PUERTO GALERA’S ANNUAL FEAST OF MUSIC, ART, AND NATURE ISSN 2012-4589

THE TRIBES CALLED MANGYAN

MANAOAG

PUERTO GALERA’S CULTURE SHAPERS

THE COUNTRY’S NEWEST MINOR BASILICA

772012 458001 >

JUNE / JULY 2015

BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

SPECIAL INVES TORS’ GUIDE ON FRANCHISING IN THE PHILIPPINES

INSIDE: SPECIAL REPORT ON THE 2015 ASEAN ECONOMIC INTEGRATION

INSIDE: CHRIS TMAS AT LIMA PARK HOTEL IN BATANGAS

S P E C I A L R E P O RT: P O P E F R A N C I S V I S I T S T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

JUNE & JULY 2014

THE ASIAN JOURNAL TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Issue 39, Volume V

Issue 40, Volume VI

OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2014

DECEMBER 2014 / JANUARY 2015

EARTH-BAG HOUSE Andres P. Tamayo Sr. Foundation, Inc. joins hand with DataLand, Inc. and DDT Konstract, Inc. in rebuilding Lajala, Coron

Issue 41, Volume VI FEBRUARY / march 2015

MORE THAN JUST THE BASICS, MORE THAN JUST BUSINESS

THE SILK RESIDENCES The Finer Things In Life THE OLIVE PLACE Balanced Living Defined

ART WALKS

Galleries. Restaurants. MANILA CATHEDRAL

Restoring Historical Emminence MUTYA NG PILIPINAS BEYOND THE BEAUTY…

FORTITUDE ON A FRIDAY Meeting with the Families at the SM MOA Arena

More Than The Crown G TÖNGI

Her Passion. Her Craft.

THE PERFECT STORM Pope Francis visits Tacloban, Leyte

Her True Calling.

TACLOBAN A Year After

Eastwood City

A pioneering township and the country’s first cyberpark

BELIEVE IN THE GOODNESS Encounter with the Youth at the University of Santo Tomas, Manila

PALAWAN

THE ANCIENT ART OF BATOK

The Luxe Life at Princesa Garden Island Resort & Spa

An ongoing series about the indigenous tribes in the Philippines

POPE APPETIT Chef Jessie Sincioco talks about her experience cooking for Pope Francis

ISSUE 63 — 093

Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast is located at Newcoast Drive, Boracay Newcoast, Brgy. Yapak, Boracay Island, 5608, Malay, Aklan. To find out more about our promos and offerings, visit our website at www.savoyhotelboracay.com.ph or call us at +63 2 720-1860 for inquiries. Like us on facebook at www.facebook.com/SavoyHotelBoracay and follow us in Instagram at savoyboracay. 02 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ISSUE 63

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 03

Celebrating Two Years of Colorful Experiences Boracay Island is one of the favourite tourist destinations of local and foreign travellers. One can say that nothing beats a perfect getaway in this beautiful island. Filipinos and foreign travellers are captivated with Boracay’s pristine clear blue waters, powdery white sand and amazing sunset. If you’re looking for a perfect getaway with unparalleled fun and pure relaxation, Savoy Hotel Boracay is the perfect place for you. Nestled in the heart of Boracay Newcoast, it features four-star facilities with its 559 well-appointed rooms with a view of the ocean, pool or golf course. A 295-metre white sand beach for a private feel and relaxing ambiance awaits you at the Newcoast Beach, a good 10-minute walk to Cove 2 would indeed fill your perfect getaway.

04 — ISSUE 63

More than the sun, sand and sea, Savoy Hotel Boracay offers complete facilities that will surely make your stay memorable. Its 559 rooms can accommodate guests at any given time as well as its various facilities for meetings, socials and events. Its chic rooms offers you a chance to relax with its view of the outdoors through your own balcony, a perfect spot to cool down after a day in the sun. Whether it’s chilling or having a great time, Savoy Hotel Boracay got you covered! We also have the first and only concert pool arena in the Philippines. The party pool that can hold up to 350 guests for any party, event or entertainment needs. Celebrating its two years, Savoy Hotel Boracay continues to make colourful experiences for their guests. As Marie Jehan Balbanero, Area Head of Marketing and Communications says, “We make sure that our guests will have a memorable, fun and colorful experience. We have opened our Lila Spa with complete spa facilities for massage and facial care treatments. The Vienne Lobby Lounge has been converted to a full-day dining to cater to our guests as well as the Zabana Bar for some bespoke cocktails. We also opened recently the souvenir shop called Fiesta, and introduced new outdoor sports activities for our guests

ISSUE 63 — 05

such as Zumba, Tai Chi, aqua aerobics, circuit training and beach volleyball. Other activities like poolside movie nights, yoga, biking and sunset watching are also part of what they can enjoy in the hotel. We also have daily kids’ activities such as coloring, pizza making, face painting and beads craft for all the kids to enjoy.” Savoy Hotel Boracay’s hip and vibrant vibe with its airy lobby, cool interiors, and bright colors will surely make your stay lively and colorful. Our tagline, Color Your Experience, is our inspiration as it captures a total package of how we emotionally connect to our guests in the most

06 — ISSUE 63

unique, personalized and experiential way. As Adie Gallares, Area General Manager says, “our goal is to excite our guests’ five senses to create a long and lasting emotional bond that will last them a lifetime and even more. Gallares shares that, “most of all, it’s the heartfelt service that we have that creates colorful experiences for our guests. We want to make sure that their experiences are truly memorable.” If a different Boracay escape is what you’re looking for, then treat yourself to a welldeserved vacation and let Savoy Hotel Boracay color your experience! As we promote responsible green environment for sustainable tourism, we operate solar shuttles and e-carts in shuttling our guests. We use eco-friendly materials in our operating supplies, including paper straws, paper cups, and boxes for take-away. In addition, we do regular weekly beach clean-ups as our own little way of caring for our environment.

ISSUE 63 — 07

S P E C I A L A DV E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

N O. 63 I VOLUME 10 MAY I JUNE I JULY 2019 SUMMER QUARTERLY ISSUE

ISSUE 63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 01