Balikbayan%20Magazine%20V3N5

balikbayanmagazine.com

OCTOBER

& NOVEMBER 2012

Volume III number 5

US$ 5.00•PHP 150.00

balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

T

OCTOBER&NOVEMBER

In this Issue

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A Closer Look at Sunny Mindanao - Part 1

Explore the Bukidnon highlands, the rapids of Cagayan De Oro, the forest of Initao and the breath- taking waterfalls of Iligan.

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Eid’l Ftr: The Many Hues of Muslim Merrymaking

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Be bedazzled by the vibrance of this yearly end-of-Ramadan Muslim celebration.

A Closer Look at Sunny Mindanao - Part 2

Experience the island born of fire, the tuna capital of the Philippines, and the origins of the famous Maitum jars.

42 Finding Your True North

46 Reluctant Hero Pays It Forward

A closer look at one of the most beautiful resorts in Northern Philippines

How Arnold Bagabaldo has become the man behind Pinoy Health Plus

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Manny Pacquiao: Full Circle

48 Foremost Fil-Am Custom Broker

The many faces of our Pambansang Kamao

Thanking E. C. Ferrer for serving the Fil-Am community for almost three decades

50 Pixie’s Sinugba, Incorporated Discover a unique food outlet that offers a variety of healthy Filipino dishes.

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The Royal Flush of Tropical Fruits

Take a bite off the luscious fruits of Mindanao.

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IN THIS ISSUE

Publisher & CEO Roger Lagmay Oriel President & Co-Publisher Cora M. Oriel Vice President for Business Development Raphael John C. Oriel Vice President for Advertising Noel Godinez Vice President for Sales Sharon Ann Bathan-San Pedro

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Vice President for Marketing and Special Events, Philippines Vince Samson

Noel Cruz: Dolled Up Masterpieces Discover a rare talent, who uses dolls as his canvas.

58 The Kiko Factor One-on-one with Pinoy music icon Francis Reyes.

Old Colonial Churches: Manila’s Historical Treasures

An architectural and historical perspective of Manila’s oldest churches.

64 Rizal, Atbp Get to know our Pambansang Bayani’s value to modern-day Filipino-Americans.

On the Cover Underwater scenery at Lemlunay Beach Resort.

This issue celebrates the beauty and grandeur of Mindanao, both it’s mountains, plateaus, and rich marine biodiversity that beckons tourists and locals alike. We pay homage to our Muslim brothers and sisters, and to our Southern roots.

No part of this publication maybe 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.

Printed in the Philippines. Distributed in the Philippines for newly arrived balikbayans at Duty Free Philippines, as well at select hotels, resorts, restaurants, and cafes, and major bookstores and magazine distributors. Circulated at special events and through subscription in the United States of America.

balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

Editor-in-Chief Emeritus Lito Ocampo Cruz Editor-at-Large Nickee de Leon-Huld Managing Editor Jane Francis S. Quinabo Associate Editor Stephen Norries A. Padilla Contributing Editors Ruben Nepales, Malou Liwanag-Bledsoe, Prosy dela Cruz, Momar G. Visaya, Cynthia De Castro, Dennis Noel A. Balangue Contributing Writers Monico Letargo, Oliver Bayani , Christina M. Oriel, Maritess G. Reyes, Kristine Bernadeth Manaog, Joseph Pimentel Contributing Photographers Joe Cobilla, Leandro Medrano, Czaldy Garrote, Dennis Noel A. Balangue, Andy Tecson, Abe Olandres, Genesis Reonico, Engr. Sherwin Calalang, Niña Sandejas, Pat Noel, Jing Velos, James Paul Dayap, Jun Aquino, Nicole Marie P. Alvaro John Andrew Manzo, Resurreccion San Miguel, Cocoy Sexcion Graphic Designers Resurreccion San Miguel, John Andrew Manzo Multimedia Developers Nicole Marie P. Alvaro, Desiderata M. Pasion Circulation Manager Arthur Sibulangcao Advertising Executive Katherine D. Carreon Accountants Victoria Fabro, Gemma Fabro, Joseph Mark Camiring Admin Salve M. Tomines

BALIKBAYAN MAGAZINE is published by Asian Journal Publications, Inc. 2/F Units D&E Fort Palm Spring Condominium, 30th Street corner, 1st Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig 1200 Philippines Tel. (+632) 856-4921 USA Advertising Offices Los Angeles: 1150 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90017-1904.

• Tel. (213) 250–9797 San Francisco: 841 San Bruno Avenue West,Ste. 12-14 San Bruno, CA 94066 • Tel. (650) 583–6818 New York: 5 Penn Plaza, Ste. 1932, New York,NY 10001 • Tel. (212) 655–5426 New Jersey: 2500 Plaza Five, Harborside Financial Center, Jersey City, NJ 07311 • Tel. (201) 484–7249 Las Vegas: 3700 W. Desert Inn Rd., Las Vegas,NV 89102 • Tel. (702) 792–6678 WEBSITE www.balikbayanmagazine.com Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/balikbayanmagazine Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/balikbayanmag For subscriptions, email subscriptions@asianjournalinc.com

KEEPING A JOURNAL

Mindanao, In a Different Light

The island of Mindanao has wellkept gems that remain pristine, amid the continuing urbanization, progress and development of many parts of the country.

For Filipinos who have not traveled down south, Mindanao boasts of sprawling mountains, where the earth kisses the clouds during sunrise and sunset; of white sand beaches and a rich marine biodiversity; of breath-taking lakes, rivers and waterfalls, where nature lovers find much-needed retreat; of friendly people, who welcome and nurture both locals and strangers.

This year, Balikbayan Magazine witnessed the celebration of the Kadayawan

Festival in Davao City and the Tuna Festival in General Santos City. We visited the famous highlands of Bukidnon and embarked on an adventure in Cagayan de Oro’s mighty river. We marvelled at the beauty of Initao’s rich flora and fauna and were overwhelmed by the cascading waters of Maria Cristina Falls in Iligan City.

This issue brings to the forefront, the countless, wonderful things about sunny Mindanao that are still waiting to be discovered.

And best of all, it gives us a closer look into one of Mindanao’s legendary gems-Emmanuel “Manny” Dapidran Pacquiao

-- the country’s pride and joy, a fearsome fighter in the ring and a well-rounded icon to be emulated for. He is also a congressman who has the best interest of his people at heart; a relentless entertainer; a spiritual advocate; a loving husband to his wife and a doting father to four lovely children.

With all his titles and accolades, Manny Pacquiao’s most endearing quality is ours as well--LOVE OF COUNTRY. u

Roger Lagmay Oriel Publisher & CEO

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You cannot love what you do not know.

Experience the Philippines wherever you go.

The fun. The beauty.

The hospitality. That selfless generosity.

LOS ANGELES 1150 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90017-1904 Tel: (213) 250-9797 • Fax: (213) 481-0854

NEW YORK 133-30 32nd Ave., Flushing, NY 11354 Tel: (212) 655-5426 • Fax: (213) 481-0854

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA 841 San Bruno Avenue West, Ste. 12-14, San Bruno, CA 94066 Tel: (650) 583-6818 • Fax: (650) 583-6819

LAS VEGAS NEVADA 3700 W. Desert Inn Road, LasVegas, NV 89102 Tel: (702) 792-6678 • Direct: (702) 591-2178 • Fax: (702) 792-6879

NEW JERSEY 535 Newark Ave., Jersey City, NJ 07306 Tel: (212) 655-5426 • Fax: (213) 481-0854

MANILA 2/F Unit D&E., Fort Palm Spring Condominium30th St. cor. 1st Ave. Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Philippines Tel: (632) 813-8746 Fax: (632) 893-1720

FOREWORD

Message

The Department of Tourism (DOT) extends it warmest greetings to the readers and followers of Balikbayan Magazine.

“It’s more fun in the Philippines” is the country’s tourism campaign inviting the rest of the world to discover what the Philippines truly is. Based on a simple insight and fundamental truth about the country, it highlights our promise of a more heartfelt and interesting experience because of Filipinos who complete every travel experience and make one’s holiday unforgettable. Likewise, it aims to create a phenomenon where every Filipino will participate and take and active role in promoting the good things the Philippines can offer.

As the DOT endeavors to elicit renewed enthusiasm and boost the country’s tourism, we recognize the potential of Filipinos based overseas to become tourism ambassadors in their respective host countries and help create the FUN image we are selling to the world. In light of the government’s Pinoy Homecoming program, we hope to see our airports busy welcoming not only foreign visitors, but also returning Filipinos.

May this magazine continue to serve as a positive welcome to balikbayans, providing information on what is happening in the Philippines and how they can best enjoy their return to the country.

I invite all balikbayans across the globe to come, see, taste, feel, and show why it is truly more fun n the Philippines. Let the fun begin. And let it begin with you.

Here’s to more FUN years in the service of the country, Mabuhay!

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balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

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FEATURE

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Manny Pacquiao Artwork by Jun Aquino balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

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FEATURE

Pacquiao

Bio

By Joseph Pimentel Artwork by Jun Aquino

A

champion is defined as “a person who has defeated all others in a competition.”

Another meaning is “an ardent defender or supporter of a cause or a person.”

Filipino Manny Pacquiao embodies both of these qualities and much more.

We look at Pacquiao now, and we see a man who has accomplished more than anyone could have ever imagined.

He is an eight-division world-boxing champion, has been heralded as “fighter of the decade,” and for years ranked No. 1 pound-for-pound in boxing.

Through all of his accolades inside the boxing ring, Pacquiao has done much

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more outside of it. He is a national icon, who serves as a Congressman for Sarangani, fighting against human trafficking. He’s a businessman who uses his prize money to create businesses and jobs in the povertystricken areas where he grew up. And as a devout Catholic, he spreads God’s message to his fans.

Mostly, he has spotlighted and uplifted a whole nation into the mainstream consciousness. No one has done more to unite Filipinos worldwide. His fights are almost national holidays or fiestas in the Philippines where Filipinos stop everything they are doing to watch his performance.

The fourth of six siblings, Pacquiao grew up mostly in a single-family household.

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Living most of his young life like many of his countrymen under crushing poverty in General Santos, Pacquiao dropped out of school at an early age, to sell pandasal in the streets to provide for whatever he could for the family. There were times he only ate once a day, sometimes not at all.

Under such duress, he could have wavered and chosen a different path.

But like many young men and women in the Philippines, he fought for survival.

It was only a matter of time before he found his calling inside a boxing ring.

We celebrate Pacquiao because he is a Filipino, a fighter inside and outside of the ring. In short, he is a champion in every sense of the word.

Pacquiao:

Man. Hero. Legend.

In the Philippines, he is considered a demigod. To the world, he is a champion. Manny Pacquiao is a man of many hats: He is a boxer, an entertainer, a politician, a spiritual advocate, a father, a husband and a son. He started out as a boxing king, but that was just a prelude to things that are unequivocally enormous as his sports legacy.

His boxing career may have suffered a little blow with his loss to Timothy Bradley and his controversial win over Juan Manuel Marquez. But there is no stopping Pacquiao in proving that he is truly boxing’s pound-for-pound king. Forget about Floyd Mayweather, Jr. If he is so keen on being crowned as the real king, he should put his money where his mouth is.

But let’s take a breather for now and look back to see Manny Pacquiao for who he really is.

Photo by Joe Cobilla

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FEATURE

Photo by James Paul Dayap

The Fighting Congressman Like his indomitable spirit as a boxer, Pacquiao did not give up his political dream when he failed to represent the first district of South Cotabato by losing to Rep. Darlene Antonino-Custodio in 2007. He ran again as congressman three years after, but this time in the lone district of Sarangani. He won a landslide victory over the Chiongbian clan who had been in power for more than 30 years.

His record as a representative is quite impressive for someone new to politics.

Pacquiao has co-authored 38 House Bills and has sponsored nine. Some of these are HB02381 or An Act Providing for the Establishment of Breast Care Centers, HB02380 or An Act to Prohibit Cellphone Networks from Sending Unsolicited Materials, and HB02379 or An Act Establishing a Provincial Hospital in Sarangani.

“I want to erase the image of the corrupt politician. I want my name to be synonymous with excellent public service and clean and good government,” Pacquiao said.

“I want to erase the image of the corrupt

politician. I want my name to be synonymous with excellent public service and clean and good government.”

Philippine Army Reservist Lt. Col. Emmanuel Dapidran Pacquiao Photo by James Paul Dayap

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CongPac on groundbreaking of Sarangani Medical Center Photo by James Paul Dayap

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Photo by James Paul Dayap

Photo by James Paul Dayap

Photo by Jun Aquino

A Man of Faith

Photo by Jun Aquino

Photo by James Paul Dayap

Manny Pacquiao can be likened to a multifaceted diamond. But what stands out is his being a man of faith; he is seen praying with his head bowed before and after every fight. He always sponsors a Holy Mass everywhere he goes. Just recently, he went to the Holy Land to undergo a spiritual transformation that will further develop spirituality as a person.

His mother, Dionisia, is his biggest spiritual influence. The whole world is witness to how the Pacquiao matriarch prays for her son’s safety in front of numerous religious statues in their humble abode. Manny Pacquiao is his mother’s son.

Photo by Jun Aquino

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FEATURE

A Celebrated Endorser At age 33, Manny Pacquiao is considered to be one of the highest paid endorsers by Forbes Magazine.

He has endorsed the following: Motolite CafePuro LBC Philippine Airlines NIKE Motorstar Hennessy Magnolia DatuPuti Sting Alaxan Vitwater Hewlett-Packard McDonald’s San Miguel Beer

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The Entertainer He was voted as the Person of the Year in 2003, and has five films to his name: Di Ko Kayang Tanggapin (2000), Mahal Kita, Kahit Sino Ka Pa (2001), Basagan ng Mukha (2001), Lisensyadong Kamao (2005), and Anak ng Kumander (2008).

His television shows, like Show Me Da Manny (with actress Marian Rivera) and his very popular game show, Manny Many Prizes have gained a cult following.

His songs have topped the charts and have been played numerous times in the Philippine airwaves.

Indeed, Manny Pacquiao is a one-ofa-kind entertainer.

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FEATURE

Pacman and Jinkee in Washington DC Photo by James Paul Dayap

Family Guy

Pacquiao Family Photo by James Paul Dayap

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When his father, Rosalio, left them while still young, Pacquiao stepped up as the man of the household. He would sell bread around the neighborhood to help his mother, Dionisia, with the family’s expenses. He is the fourth among six siblings, namely Liza Silvestre-Onding, Domingo Silvestre, Isidra Paglinawan, Rogelio Pacquiao, and boxer Alberto “Bobby” Pacquiao.

Now that he has a family of his own, Pacquiao vows never to let his children experience what he had gone through when he was still young. Together with his wife, Jinkee Jamora, Pacquiao tries his best to give what is best for their kids, Emmanuel Jr.

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“Jimuel,” Michael, Princess, and Queen Elizabeth “Queenie.”

He originally resides in his hometown, General Santos City, South Cotabato.

But because of his post as a congressman, he officially stays in Kiamba, Sarangani, which is the hometown of his wife.

Manny’s Family Photo by Jun Aquino

Taking you home when you’re miles away.

21 years of commitment.

FEATURE

Pacman Trivia:

What You Don’t Know About Manny Pacquiao Here are some interesting facts about Manny Pacquiao. Just like other celebrities, there are still a lot of things that will surprise us about our idols.

Because of his numerous titles, Manny

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Pacquiao is considered to be a ruthless opponent. In his fight with Joshua Clottey, he threw an estimated 1,231 punches.

But what people do not know is that Pacquiao is a very compassionate boxer.

During his fight with Antonio Margarito, the Pacman chose not to throw any more fatal punches to his opponent’s already swollen right eye.

According to him, “Boxing is not for

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killing each other, you know.”

Pacman owns a basketball team called MP Warriors of GenSan. The fighting congressman from Sarangani Province is the first Filipino athlete to have his face on a postage stamp.

He is featured in Fight Night Parts 2, 3, and 4, a popular boxing video game series in the United States.

Artwork provided by Jun Aquino

Mexican Destroyer Pacquiao neither wants to be called this, nor as the “Mexicutioner,” because of his love for all his Mexican fans and his great respect and admiration for these Mexican fighters. But we cannot deny the fact that most of Pacquiao’s memorable (and controversial) fights are against formidable Mexicans.

Here is a list of all the Mexican boxers he fought with in his entire boxing career: Gabriel Mira (1999) Emmanuel Lucero (2003) Marco Antonio Barrera (2003, 2007) Juan Manuel Marquez (2004, 2008, 2011) Erik Morales (2005, twice in 2006) Hector Velazquez (2005) Oscar Larios (2006) Jorge Solis (2007) Antonio Margarito (2010)

Artwork provided by Jun Aquino

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FEATURE

How I Became a Pacquiao Fan

By Steno A. Padilla

I know Manny Pacquiao very much. I mean, who doesn’t? A pound-forpound king, a people’s champ, a celebrity, a politician and a spiritual adviser -- there’s just so much about the man that not knowing him would be a crime.

Although the Internet and the media provide loads of information about Pacquiao’s boxing achievements, showbiz and political careers, and personal life, I still couldn’t convince myself that he was a man worthy to be considered my idol.

I admit that I’m not a huge fan of boxing, but I always watch Pacquiao’s fights because I know he’s representing the Philippines. And yet every time he won, I would always be among millions of spectators jumping off their seats, screaming at the top of their lungs, and celebrating another moment of pride as a Filipino.

Still, I didn’t consider myself as a fan of Pacquiao. That changed when I worked in GMA. I was a researcher at the Public Affairs Department of GMA for the show Tonight with Arnold Clavio, a local spin of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. The job was tough, but it allowed me to rub elbows with famous and not-so-famous celebrities, sports champions and broadcast personalities. I talked to them, shared some hi’s and hello’s, and asked for information about their lives that could not be googled, which was my primary duty as a researcher.

One day, the producer asked me to research about Pacquiao, since he would

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be the guest for our show that week. I got a little excited, knowing that I would finally be able to see the man that destroyed many formidable boxers and who had been the talk of the town for weeks

on end. I also realized that not too many people my age got to meet him in the flesh, so it was really exhilarating to be given the task.

It was not easy getting information about Pacquiao that hadn’t been made public yet. It became doubly harder since I couldn’t pre-interview the boxing champ.

But that didn’t stop me from getting what I wanted from our show’s guest.

I had to exhaust my connections to get through to those people who knew Pacquiao inside out. I couldn’t remember how I did it, but I was able to get the numbers of Pacquiao’s wife, Jinkee, and mother, Dionisia.

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I first tried calling Jinkee. After a couple of rings without getting any response, I gave up. So I turned to Mommy Dionisia. She answered on the first ring, and what was supposed to be an interview about Pacquiao turned out to be a storytelling session about herself. She was hilarious and I didn’t have the heart to refrain her from talking about her life, because she seemed to be enjoying every minute of our conversation.

In the end, I had to segue to talking about her son, which I succeeded in doing. I finally got what I needed.

On the day of our taping, our producer asked me to fetch Pacquiao from studio 6, located in the annex building, to studio 3, the one we were using for the show which was in the main building.

I waited for the people’s champ outside studio 6. He was still doing some rounds of scenes for his sitcom, Show Me Da Manny. I was itching to get close to him and introduce myself, so in one of his idle moments, I timidly walked towards Pacquiao and made myself noticeable Surprisingly for someone who does not consider himself a fan, I was starstruck. But I tried my best not to show it--I was a “professional” Photo by Jun Aquino researcher after all. So when I was already standing in front of Pacquiao, I finally got to say what was secretly playing in my mind....

“Pwede po bang magpa-picture?”

He gave a shy smile and motioned for me to come closer. I moved to his right side, gave my camera to a friend, and posed with my right hand doing the money sign while Pacquiao raised his famous left fist to his chest. Click. Flash.

In the end, I got what I truly wanted: a souvenir photo with Pacquiao.

That one moment inside a GMA studio in 2010 sealed the deal for me. With so many achievements in his life, it was that simple showing of humility to a stranger that endeared Pacquiao to me.

Pacquiao in Time Magazine Time Magazine’s Asian Edition put Pacquiao on its cover in 2009. He is the seventh Filipino to be given such an honor. The other Filipinos who graced the cover of Time Magazine were Presidents Manuel Quezon, Manuel Roxas, Ramon Magsaysay, Ferdinand Marcos, Corazon Aquino, Benigno S. Aquino III, and environmentalist Chin Chin Gutierrez.

The last boxer to be accorded the honor was former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson in 1988. What sets Pacquiao apart from other athletes, who were featured

in Time Magazine, are his genuine qualities of humility, generosity and faith.

“What is happening to me now is the most humbling experience of my life. It is a great honor for me to be the face of my people and to let everyone know we are a small but mighty country. I have great pride for all of the Filipinos living throughout the world and it is these people that I fight for each and every time I step into the ring,” Time Magazine quoted Pacquiao as saying in an interview.

Photo by Jun Aquino

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FEATURE

Atty. Gacal: A Chief of Staff Like No Other

By Jane Francis S. Quinabo

Manny Pacquiao is known for being one of the best fighters of the century, and one of the most influential people in the world.

Yet, even with his celebrity status, he still gives credit to those who have always stayed behind him through thick and thin, including his wife, Jinkee and his mother, Dionisia.

Unknown to most, there are also those who work with Manny, behindthe-scenes. They play a crucial role in Manny’s day-to-day decision-making process.

One of them is Atty. Franklin Mabini Gacal, Manny Pacquiao’s Chief of Staff, and one of the guiding forces in the Fighting Congressman’s everyday life. He is a graduate of the Philippines’ ivy leagues, taking Political Science at De La Salle University and Law at the Ateneo de Manila University School of Law. Atty. Gacal is no newbie in politics, having been an undefeated city councillor for four terms in the city of General Santos.

Although he officially joined Team Pacquiao in 2005, Atty. Jeng’s friendship with Manny Pacquiao began more than a decade ago, stemming from a common interest for cockfighting.

Later on, he started handling legal matters for Manny, and after a few years, became an integral part of Pacquiao’s staff.

It’s my first time to interview one of the members of Team Pacquiao, and to say I was nervous was an understatement. I was imagining meeting a tough-looking man who never smiles, and who is always in a rush.

On the contrary, Atty. Jeng, was very accommodating; though as I expected, he was in a bit of a hurry. However, he took his time in answering my questions,

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patiently waiting for me to finish them before answering.

Contrary to what I have grown used to, surprisingly, his responses were candid.

He gave me a glimpse of what kind of people Pacquiao trusts.

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Atty Jeng with Pacquiao during the press tour of Dela Hoya vs Pacquiao “ the dream match”

If he does have tough moments, it’s because he is always looking after Manny’s welfare. Cutting through all the worldly pretenses, Atty. Jeng has maintained his down-to-earth personality amid all the glitz and glamour that surround him 24/7.

He is one of the rare people that Manny Pacquiao is proud to have.. u

Atty. Jeng

Atty Jeng delivering a speech during the Pacquiao-Bradley press tour in New York

Eric Pineda The Man of the Business

By Steno A. Padilla

He is one of the lesser-known figures behind Manny Pacquiao’s success. Why? Well, Pineda is just the business manager of the pound-for-pound king. Simply imagine the workload of someone who works for a world champion and multimillionaire. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg since, as we all know by now, Pacquiao is a jack-of-all-trades.

Eric Pineda with this boss, Manny Pacquiao, at the Beijing Olympics 2008.

a falling out a few years back. That was when Pineda stepped forward to handle Pacquiao’s countless business endeavors.

A little trivia about this man. You probably know more about the son than the father himself. Pineda is the proud dad of Starstruck survivor Enzo Pineda of the GMA Artist Center.

Eric Pineda with his family--sons Paolo (left) and Enzo (right), and wife Macy--at the MGM Grand Garden Arena

It was in 2004 when Pineda, a veteran publicist, political and marketing consultant, first encountered Pacquiao face to face. Right then and there, he saw a massive potential in the young boxer’s career in and out of the ring, like a diamond trapped inside a pile of dirt, waiting to be polished.

Pineda was hired by Rod Nazario, the former business manager of Pacquiao.

But Nazario and the boxing champ had

Eric Pineda and wife Macy Pineda at the Great Wall of China.

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

A Closer Look at

By Jane Francis S. Quinabo | Photo by Leandro Medrano

One of the most understated beauties in the Philippine archipelago is Mindanao. Its reputation is often slanted in the news; that is why it still has many paradise--like sites that remain undiscovered. Fortunately, I was able to see these wonderful places with my very own eyes.

Bukidnon

From the minute I set foot on Bukidnon, it never ceased to amaze me. With 20 municipalities and two cities, the highland paradise in the heart of Mindanao boasts of a sprawling farming area.

Tribe Immersion

Balikbayan Magazine was invited to one of the communities of the Talaandig tribe, which is located at the foot of Mt. Kitanglad --the fourth highest mountain in the Philippines. The Talaandig is one of the seven indigenous groups in Bukidnon.

A marker at the entrance of the community says: “Be Culture Conscious,” reminding visitors that they are now in a territory with a different culture.

Before entering, we offered three live chickens and rice. Since the tribe leaders were strict about what kind of people they share the community with, we were asked not to take pictures and do interviews until the “spirits” allow us passage into the community. We waited patiently for their go signal.

Like the Na’vis in James Cameron’s Avatar, the Talaandigs treat animals as sacred beings. Before killing chickens, they whisper to them to ask for forgiveness. The Talaandigs believe in the presence of the spirits of nature. Their actions and decisions are guided by rituals. So important are these rituals that they built the School of Living Traditions (a project of Datu Migketay Victorino Saway), where their children learn the Talaandig traditions and practices.

Tribe immersion is a recent addition to the activities that Bukidnon offers. So why did the tribes suddenly decide to accept tourists and visitors to their communities?

“Iisa lang naman tayo, e. Magkakapatid tayo. Kung kayo, handang magpakilala sa amin, pinupuntahan niyo kami rito, dapat han-

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da rin kaming magpakilala sa inyo,” said Datu Makapukaw.

The Talaandigs are also known for their soil paintings. These are done by gathering various colors and types of soils and using white glue as a paint binder. Waway Saway, a soil artist and the man responsible for reviving this ancient form of art, introduced soil painting back in 1995. Since then, artists under his tutelage have won regional and national art competitions.

Monastery of Transfiguration The Monastery of Transfiguration is set atop a small hill in Malaybalay City.

The pyramid-shaped chapel stands over lush greenery, overlooking the small coffee plantation where the famous Monk’s Blend coffee beans are grown.

The compound also has a museum that houses liturgical vestments, used throughout Philippine history. Colorful priest garbs

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made of abaca, piña and banana fibers, sewn with cotton, satin and silk, are on display. The walls of the museum are also adorned with the monks’ paintings, showing a simple life.

Despite being known in Bukidnon, the Monastery of Transfiguration has maintained a solemn and peaceful envi-

Sunny Mindanao The twenty municipalities are Baungon, Cabanglasan, Damulog, Dangcagan, Don Carlos, Impasug-ong, Kadingilan, Kalilangan, Kibawe, Kitaotao, Lantapan, Libona, Malitbog, Manolo Fortich, Maramag, Pangantucan, Quezon, San Fernando, Sumilao, and Talakag. The two cities are Malaybalay City and Valencia City. ronment. Just like the monastic life, people are reminded that one can survive, even if they are stripped off of material possessions.

Kaamulan Village The Kaamulan Festival is an annual ethnic festival in Malaybalay City. It is held to celebrate the culture and traditions of the seven ethnic groups that originally inhabited Bukidnon:

Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon and Umayamnon.

Representatives from the seven indigenous groups gather with the local dwellers, dressed in their intricately woven attires and adorned with trinkets, anklets, necklaces, earrings, amulets and other accessories. The participants sing, dance and perform rituals.

They would also compete in different indigenous sports.

Located a few meters away from Malaybalay City, Kaamulan Village has a convention center, an open area for campfires and cottages that look like ancestral houses.

These structures are equipped with basic sleeping facilities and modern amenities.

Anicycle Kampo Juan is an adventure park. Here, one can literally enjoy life on the edge.

Our first stop was the anicycle--a bicycle with its wheels connected to a steel rope. The ride requires one to bike from one mounta in

to the next, with only a harness as a guide.

The first time I saw such a spectacle was in a circus, when I was a child. With my fear of heights and unreliable sense of balance, I had no idea how to finish the ride. One wrong tilt of the handlebars and you would fall off.

Even a harness that can hold up to three tons had a hard time convincing me to try it.

Eventually, I did.

What we didn’t know was that our fear of heights would be amplified as we faced the next challenge: crossing the hanging bridge from the second mountain to the third. It looked easy, but the moment we set foot on the rickety bridge, fear set in. The kilometerlong bridge rocked back and forth, as we crossed. Nonetheless, the team reached the third mountain, but not without a lot of silent prayers.

From the third mountain to the fourth, the final adventure was the 570-meter long zipline. Almost a minute of being suspended on air and swinging on nothing else but harness and metal rope gave us the ultimate sense of freedom. That natural high, although short-lived, was an achievement in itself.

The Bukidnon trip was a cultural, historical and adventurous mix. Most people only have pineapples in mind when they hear ‘Bukidnon,’ but Balikbayan Magazine experienced some of the things that only the City of Golden Harvest can offer.

From the word “amul” meaning “to gather,” the Kaamulan Festival is held from the second half of February up to the 10th day of March, the foundation day of Bukidnon as a province.

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TRAVEL DESTINATION Macahambus Adventure Park

Another tourist attraction of CDO is the Macahambus Adventure Park, housing perhaps the only gorge in Mindanao. The park offers guests an opportunity to walk along the hanging bridge that passes through the forest and through a quicker route back to the entrance via zipline.

For those who are not into extreme adventure, the place also offers a visit to the cave and gorge, where people get to enjoy the unique flora and fauna that can only be found in Macahambus. The park also offers white-water rafting activities.

White water Rafting Photo by Leandro Medrano

Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro City, or CDO, is the provincial capital of Misamis Oriental. But its reputation earned it several nicknames.

Considered to be the melting pot of Mindanao, CDO is also known as the “Gateway to Northern Mindanao” because of its close proximity and accessibility to other commercial zones in the region, thanks to the improved transportation system.

Outdoor enthusiasts call it the “Rafting Capital of the Country” because adventure seekers anywhere can enjoy white-water rafting all throughout the year, unlike in other places where the river dries up during the summer. But the most popular title of all is the “City of Golden Friendships,” for CDO prides itself of having very hospitable people.

Its name, however, literally means “City of the River of Gold.” Back in the day when the Spaniards first colonized the country, there were a lot of gold mining activities along the banks of the Cagayan River.

White-water Rafting

For the typical adventure seeker, whitewater rafting is a must. Several companies offer white-water rafting packages. One of them is the First Rafting Adventure, which offers affordable packages and has friendly river guides. For those who are afraid of falling off the rubber boat, fear not, for the guides are all trained swimmers and river navigators.

Divisoria and St. Augustine

Hanging Bridge at Macahambus Adventure Park Photo by Leandro Medrano

The beginner’s course is a 12.32-kilometer cruise along the river with 14 major rapids that range from class 1 to class 2. This means that the rapids are safe and friendly enough to maneuver. In between the rapids, one can enjoy a dip in the river while enjoying the scenery Downstream, the Cagayan River is bordered by Bukidnon on the left and CDO on the right. Other courses include the advanced course, where adventurers get to cruise 20 kilometers of the river with 21 major rapids that range from class 2 to class 4; and the extreme course, where boaters experience 22 kilometers of class 4 to class 5 rapids. Guests who want to take this course need to hike two kilometers to reach the starting point.

CDO also has its version of the Manilafamous Divisoria. The city’s version is a night market, an entertainment district that captures the vibrant and energetic nightlife that is purely Cagayanon. Even a solitary wanderer cannot resist the party scene and people that CDO’s Divisoria offers.

For a quiet moment, visitors can visit St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral, home of the black St. Augustine image. The craftsman, upon hearing that St. Augustine is from Africa, thought that the patron saint is black, hence the color of the statue.

The best part about being in CDO is that, anywhere you go, people are more than willing to assist you, with a smile. Regardless of what time of the day you decide to wander around, Cagayanons will help you in any way they can. Truly, a city of golden friendships!

The many names of Cagayan de Oro City City of Golden Friendships Gateway to Northern Mindanao Rafting Capital of the Country Melting Pot of Mindanao City of the River of Gold

Sunrise at Midway Beach Resort Photo by Leandro Medrano

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balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

Tinago Falls Photo by Pat Noel

Initao and Iligan City

Initao is part of Misamis Oriental that has an area protected by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The Initao National Park, a 57-hectare natural forest with a large variety of flora and fauna, is one of the highlights of my visit to this wonderful area in the province. Spelunking, boulder fishing (fishing while sitting on top of a boulder), snorkeling and scuba diving are some of the activities at the Initao National Park.

Lasang

A different kind of thrill kicks in once you visit the Lasang Secret Adventure Park.

The road towards the adventure park is lined with a canopy of rainforest trees.

The very first thing I did was to pass through the boardwalk-a pathway dotted by planks that

slowly rose from the ground. The purpose of this is to protect the ground and other plant species that breed on the land. After about a minute of slowly walking upward, I ended up at the foot of the spiral staircase.

It took me atop the canopy of trees, straight into a series of hanging bridges that crossed one huge tree to another. As I doggedly walked, I noticed how the sunlight touched the leaves and turned them into a cornucopia of rare colors that only nature could provide. In no time, while momentarily being one with nature, I forgot that I was up there being supported only by a narrow, steel bridge.

Of course, all roads lead to a zipline adventure. Lasang Secret Adventure Park did not disappoint. What’s unique about the zipline here was that its pace can be controlled. If you want to further enjoy the ride, all you have to do is instruct the guides before

jumping off to stop the line once you reach your desired area. You can take pictures or just revel at being suspended on air. You may choose to relax while in mid-air, albeit shortly.

Maria Cristina

Then I headed to Iligan City, also known as the City of Majestic Waterfalls and the Industrial Center of the South.

It boasts of 23 waterfalls, among which is the most famous Maria Cristina Falls. This towering body of water helps power Agus VI Hydroelectric Plant that provides electricity to the surrounding areas.

A perfect place for any traveler, Iligan City is a site where one can relax close to nature without leaving the comforts of an urban setting.

Promoting a laidback lifestyle amidst a built-up location, the city of Iligan surely is a mustvisit. u

Dodiongan Falls Photo by Pat Noel

The 23 waterfalls of Iligan City are Maria Cristina, Tinago, Limunsudan, Guimbalolan, Kamadahan, Pindarangahan, Gata, Kibalang, Rogongon, Mimbalut, Dalipuga, Dodiongan, Kalubihon, Langilanon, Hindang, Pampam, Languyon, Linanot, Malinao, Bridal Veil, Abaga, Maligang, and Malapacan.

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EVENTS

Eid’l Fitr:

The many hues of Muslim merrymaking

By Steno A. Padilla | Photos by Resurreccion San Miguel

It was a night full of colors and unique sounds. For a country surrounded by millions of non-Muslims and influenced by so much Western pop culture, it was definitely a breath of fresh air for me to become part of the grand celebration of the Eid’l Fitr.

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lso known as the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast, Eid’l Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. This falls on the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims all over the world take this occasion to strengthen ties with family and friends, as well as to give thanks, forgive and celebrate.

The annual national celebration of the Eid’l Fitr festival, held this year at The Block, SM City North EDSA, was first staged in 1993 by the Kasannangan Foundation, Inc., headed by former senator Santanina Rasul.

Being there to witness the event was an eye-opener, to say the least. I thought that it was also a triumph for our Muslim brothers and sisters--finally putting their culture and beliefs in the mainstream again.

This was not easy, considering the bigotry and abuse the Muslims suffered due

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Pangalay Dance

in part to the negative political climate after 9/11. For almost a decade since then, the annual staging of Eid’l Fitr festivals in the country was put on hold. To get a clearer picture of this scenario, imagine Christmas being banned nationwide.

Thanks to the peace and development efforts of President Benigno S. Aquino III, the Eid’l Fitr festival was resumed last year by the Magbassa Kita Foundation, Inc., and the Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy.

It was such a delight then to see the booths of places like Basilan, Sulu and Maguindanao showcasing their local delicacies, handicrafts and native attires. The sight and smell of the venue reminded me of the colorful vintas lining the seas of Mindanao. And the intricate designs of the weavings gave me an insight on the mathematical genius of our indigenous peoples.

But what really fascinated me during the event were the dances and the music. As a

balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile

dancer myself, I believe there’s no better way to express one’s feelings, culture and identity than through non-verbal messages, gracefully performed by the body.

My eyes were glued to the AlunAlun Dance Circle as they performed the “fingernail” dance called Pangalay. Even without the announcer giving information about the dance, I was able to posit that it was about imitating nature, such as the innocent movement of the leaves, the soft caress of the wind, and the back-and-forth motion of the waves in the ocean.

As a bonus, it gave me a glimpse of the lifestyle of the people in the Sulu archipelago, where the sea is both home and a source of livelihood.

I was also fortunate to check out traditional Philippine Muslim clothings, to view the works of National Artist for Visual Arts Abdulmari Imao, and to appreciate the photo-essay exhibit on how Islam came to the Philippines, which even antedates the arrival of Christianity in the country.

FAST FACTS:

AlunAlun Dance Circle

With such a rich and vibrant culture, it is surprising that the media gives little or no attention at all to these important details. I suppose that at that precise moment when

we learn to accommodate a more pluralistic society and to embrace diversity as a way of life, rather than a divisive line, is the time that we can all be proud to be called Filipinos. u

Eid Mubarak – A traditional Muslim greeting used on the festivals of Eid’l Fitr and Eid’l Adha. It literally means “blessed festival.”

Republic Act No. 9177 – The law that declares Eid’l Fitr a national holiday.

Pangalay – The traditional dance of the Tausug people in Sulu and Sabah, which is characterized by gentle movements of the hands and fingers. It literally means “gift offering.”

Assalamu Alaikum – A common greeting among Muslims, which means “Peace be with you.” The response to this is “Wa alaikum assalaam,” which means “And upon you be peace.”

Ramadan – The ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. This holy month is observed by fasting or by abstaining from food, drink and other physical needs during the daylight hours.

balikbayan is a valentine to everything we love about the Philippines. The People, the places, the faces, the food, the music, the history, the culture, the adventure, the lifestyle, the moments, and the memories. Simply said, love of country is back in style.

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EVENTS

K ADAYAWAN FESTIVAL

Photos by Leandro Medrano

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balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

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EVENTS

T UNA

FESTIVAL

Photos by Jing Velos

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balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

INDUSTRY

A Pioneer in No Frills, Limited Service Hotel in the Philippines

Microtel by Wyndham envision a network of Microtels all over the Philippines being a pioneer in no-frills hotel concept. Travelers, on business or leisure, will be able to go anywhere at all and enjoy the certainty that they can have a good night’s sleep in a clean, comfortable, safe and secure accommodations in a nearby Microtel.

Microtel Gen. Santos National Highway, General Santos City, Philippines Microtel Gen. Santos’ three-level building joins the vibrant business activity of General Santos City. The leading hotel chain with its warmly efficient service unmatched anywhere in the Philippines, will offer 66 well-appointed guest rooms surrounded by trees nearby and some lush greeneries and landscaping.

Aside from the standard facilities and amenities found in any Microtel hotels, the Gen San property will have conference facilities situated on the 2nd floor for meetings, conventions, seminars, special events and other social occasions that can accommodate up to 150 persons.

The Microtel Gen. Santos’ location is just 30 minutes away from the airport and sits snugly within walking distance of, not only its own commercial complex, but also nearby malls familiar to all. It’s a 5-minute walk from the business area where banks and other establishments are within reach.

Microtel Acropolis Quezon City, Philippines Microtel Acropolis bolsters the leading hotel brand’s much-admired reputation for fine accommodations offered at reasonable rates. Standing four floors and containing 84 well-appointed guest rooms, it is conveniently located near Eastwood Mall where different establishments and restaurants are within reach. It is insulated against

both heat and noise, and equipped with the latest flat-screen TV’s and digital cable connections. It also includes a basement for easy parking, a trendy breakfast coffee shop, several meeting rooms plus a level of service and hospitality that is the result of an appealing blend of the international hotel chain’s prize-winning efficiency and Filipino warmth and hospitality.

Microtel Acropolis was the first to qualify for Green Building permit granted by the Quezon City government which is scheduled to open this 2012. It has complied with and in some cases even exceeded the rigorous standards for a truly “green” building.

Microtel hotels has been in the cuttingedge of a “green” building with its sewage treatment plants, solar water heaters and a plethora of environmentally sensitive equipment and strategies that have been in use for many years. u

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

Camiguin: The Island Born of Fire

By Jane Francis S. Quinabo | Photo by Nicole Marie Alvaro

Mindanao is also home to the country’s most unique islands; Camiguin is one of them. Having seven volcanoes and quite a number of nearby islands that guests can easily visit on a good weather, the “island born of fire” is simply an irresistible place where one can fully maximize his vacation.

Balikbayan Magazine arrived late in the afternoon, and after freshening up at the hotel, the first place that the team went to is Katibawasan Falls. It is a 250-feet cascade in Mambajao, located at the foot of Mt. Timpoong, the largest mountain on the island of Camiguin. Since it recently rained hard, the waterfall was majestic and powerful, a far cry from its usual calm.

Then we went to the first of the three springs that are major tourist attractions in Camiguin: the Esperanza Ardent Hot Spring. The mineral pool has 40 degrees Celsius of water that are not only relaxing, but are also very therapeutic. The hot spring is located a few kilometres northwest of Catarman. The best time to go to this place is at night for the hot swim complements the cool night air that surrounds the island in the evening.

The next morning, we headed out early to sea to visit the sandbar called White Island, which is seven minutes away from the mainland. The powdered white sand is simply divine, and the view of the whole island of Camiguin as a backdrop is breathtaking.

Despite the fact that the island does not

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sport accommodations or even cottages, it is still a preferred picnic area for tourists who bring their own umbrellas, blankets, and food.

Then we proceeded to the second spring which is the Bura Soda Water Swimming Pool. It is the only swimming pool of soda water in the country which is brought about by active volcanoes on the island. The cold water is refreshing and relaxing at the same time.

The third is Sto. Niño Cold Spring, which is located about four kilometers from Catarman. Upon entering the resort, one would notice the number of coconuts swimming in the water. According to the restaurant owners in the area, the low temperature of the water keeps the coconuts chilled without the expense of electricity and the need for a refrigerator. When we went inside, we saw hundreds of small fishes in the bigger pool.

These fishes are just like those that you find in fish spas. We immediately dipped our feet in the water and waited for the fishes to come. It was one ticklish and fun moment.

balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

Next, we visited the Church Ruins in Bonbon, where the remnants of the church destroyed in 1871 during the eruption of Vulcan Daan can be seen. These ruins proved that the Spaniards were able to penetrate and influence a part of Mindanao, contrary to what most people are aware of.

After lunch, we headed to Walkway Via Crosses in the Old Volcano, where there are life-sized statues for every station of the cross. A gentle climb is required, but the beauty of the surroundings and the great view of the sea as you slowly ascend make the experience worth it.

It was almost sunset when we reached the Sunken Cemetery. It was believed that due to a massive explosion of one of Camiguin’s volcanoes in the past, the part where the cemetery used to be located shifted and peeled away from the island, sinking below sea level.

Camiguin also offers diving as part of its attractions. The marine biodiversity on the island is colorful and one of a kind.

There are a lot of underwater lava and coral formations that can only be seen in a volcano island such as Camiguin. u

Have Fun in Gen San

By Jane Francis S. Quinabo | Photo by Resurreccion San Miguel

General Santos City (or simply Gen San) captured the world’s attention because of the rise to popularity of Manny Pacquiao, the eight-division world boxing champion who proved that, with dedication and hard work, everything is possible.

But the Tuna Capital of the Philippines has its own grand reputation to uphold, and Balikbayan Magazine stood witness to what it has to offer.

Dubbed as the southernmost port city in the Philippines, Gen San took the name of General Paulino Santos, who led the transfer and relocation of 62 Christian settlers from Luzon to the shores of Sarangani Bay. Since the island is gifted with rich volcanic soil, well-distributed rainfall throughout the year, and zero-typhoon climate, the crops produced here are of high value, among which are coconut, corn, asparagus, pineapple, rice, and banana.

With good soil also comes betterthan-good livestock, such as hogs, poultry, and cattle among others. The other

top economic activity of Gen San is fisheries. Next to Navotas Fish Port, Gen San holds the second largest total catch of fish daily.

When Balikbayan Magazine arrived in Gen San, we were at awe. We expected a rustic place, but we were wrong. Gen San is bursting with urban life. The vibrant city is home to some of the country’s best seafood restaurants, and we spent our first night sampling almost everything that it has to offer. Nothing really beats the taste of freshly caught seafood.

The next day, our first stop was to check out the world-class fish port. After changing to our rubber boots, the team started for the harvest area. It was great timing because a dozen boats just docked and the fishermen were hauling their catch, one by one.

According to our guide, each boat spends 21 days at sea, to catch yellow fin tuna. Once they return, they have about 200 plus tuna fishes in their boats waiting to be weighed, auctioned, and sold.

We were lucky to board one of the ships to see first-hand where it all happens.

We headed to Fifth Mountain after the fish port, where we tried the most popular adventure activity in the country: zipline, for the nth time . But before we reached the starting point, I had to conquer my fear of motorcycles. Since the van we brought was not a 4x4, we needed to ride the local habal-habal, a motorcycle, so to speak.

The hardest part about going up to the mountain is the road. It was not made of concrete, but of limestones. Legend has it that Gen San used to be submerged in water, but due to the movements of the plates millennia ago, it emerged from the water and has become a part of mainland Mindanao. After almost 10 agonizing minutes of bumping around while clinging for dear life, we finally reached the peak.

The zipline adventure was fun but terrifying. Then again, with the great view, you would forget that you are suspended on air for almost 45 seconds, with nothing but rope and harness to hold you.

But once you reach the other side of the mountain, there is a sense of accomplishment, for not only was I able to do yet another zipline ride, but also because I realized that there are still places in the country that remain untouched, despite technological advancements. u

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

The Serenity of Sarangani Province

By Jane Francis S. Quinabo

Balikbayan Magazine decided to pay a visit to Gen San’s geographical sister: the beautiful province of Sarangani. This province used to be one of Mindanao’s best-kept secrets, but it is slowly making a name for itself as one of Mindanao’s tourist spots.

Thanks to the assistance of Go Sarangani Travel and Lemlunay Resort, Balikbayan Magazine was able to visit some of the must-see places in Sarangani.

Our first stop: the Sarangani Cultural Museum. The structure houses both replicas and artifacts from the original site where the Maitum jars were found. The Maitum jars are anthropomorphic or human-shaped. Unlike regular jars that are mostly circular, these jars are patterned after the human body. In the olden days, they were used for burial or storage purposes.

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After knowing a bit of Sarangani’s history through the museum visit, we went to the Pawikan Nesting Sanctuary. The man behind the sanctuary, Danilo C. Dequiña, got inspired when one day, he discovered clusters of turtle eggs not far from his seaside residence.

Mang Dan (as he is fondly called) immediately gathered the eggs, placed them in a makeshift hatchery, and covered them with sand. After 45-70 days, the eggs started hatching one by one. He placed them in a basin, collecting all the baby turtles that had hatched, and put them in a small pool ,where they could practice swimming before they were released to the sea.

The next day, we visited Fort Sarangani, home of the 73rd Infantry Battalion of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. They are believed to be the “Soldiers of Love” and the

balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

“Army of Peace.” The place does not exude the coldness of a military camp, on the contrary, it was conducive to relaxation and solitude. The idea is to have a venue where soldiers can unwind in peace.

Then, Balikbayan Magazine headed out to sea for some diving and sailing. We were lucky because Lemlunay Resort (where we stayed), had sea walls right in front of it. All you have to do is suit up and jump into the water. We were bedazzled by schools of clown, parrot, and angel fish, as we swam from coral to coral.

Sarangani Bay is also famous for the Gumasa beaches, Mindanao’s very own version of Boracay. The sand here is so white and pure, one would think it’s made of iodized salt. It offers serenity that is hard to find in other commercial resorts. u

Photo by Lemlunay Beach Resort

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TASTE BUDS

The royal flush of tropical fruits

By Steno A. Padilla | Photos by Czaldy Garrote

A lot of nutritionists say that the ideal time to eat fruits is before every meal. The science behind this is that fruits easily digest-that eating them last will give you a bloated feeing as they stay on top of all the other food in your stomach and start to ferment.

I

n the Philippines, people eat fruits at any given time. Filipinos eat them either as an appetizer or as a dessert in all of the three major meals... and as a snack in between.

Believe it or not, some even consider certain fruits, like bananas, as a viand to complement a plate of hot, steamy rice.

Needless to say, for those of you who happen to step into the fertile soil of Mindanao down south, there are a lot more fruit choices that you can have any time of the year--so much that you can call this part of the country as the “fruit bowl of the Philippines.”

Here are some tropical fruits that you should get accustomed with.

Durian

This fruit is a paradox. Admittedly, it is fou l-smel ling, but a lot of culinary experts and foodies will testify to its superb taste, with some considering it as the most delicious fruit in the world. While a lot of people who are used to durian’s smell will say that its odor is tolerable (even fragrant), especially when put outdoors, newcomers to this fruit cannot be blamed for being judgmental.

But here is a piece of advice to those unfamiliar souls who happen to be in Southern Mindanao where durian abounds: Do not judge a fruit by its odor.

Don’t judge it by the skin either. It’s spiky, it’s thorny, it’s prickly, but with the right knife and strong arms, you are sure to enjoy durian’s creamy flesh. For starters, pinching your nose while masticating this delicacy is forgivable.

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Mangosteen

If durian is considered as the “king of tropical fruits,” then mangosteen is its queen.

This fruit with a deep purple husk is not very popular among Filipinos, but a lot of people who have tasted it consider mangosteen as one of their favorites.

Its inside skin is a deep red in color, while the edible part of the fruit is white.

It normally has six or seven individual sections inside each shell. The taste? It’s a combination of sweet and sour goodness.

This fruit is also believed to have antibacterial properties.

Here’s a little secret about this fruit.

Look at the bottom of the mangosteen.

You will see a part there that looks like a flower. The number of petals that you see corresponds to the number of fruit pieces found inside the mangosteen.

By the way, it’s not related to the mango fruit.

Pomelo

Locally known as suha or lukban, this crisp, citrus fruit tastes like a sweet, mild grapefruit. It is much larger in size, though, than a grapefruit. Its color is pale green to yellow when ripe.

You will know that the pomelo you are eating is grown in the Philippines if its in-

balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

side is pinkish red. It also contains more juice than other varieties, which makes it ideal for mountaineers or hikers. Its sweet taste makes it ideal for dessert. Pomelo juice and candies are also common in the country.

To truly appreciate the taste of the pomelo, or any other tropical fruit in the Philippines, sprinkle with salt before eating.

Lanzones

This fruit is much celebrated on the island of Camiguin in Northern Mindanao, where it has its own festival. Lanzones is a seasonal fruit and is usually harvested in October, but it also has a season during the summer months.

Although its growth resembles that of grapes, its color and taste greatly differ. The lanzones has a yellowish skin, while the edible part is white in color. The fruit is sometimes sour and sometimes sweet, depending on the ripeness. It is also juicy.

But beware of its seeds. Each edible section normally has one to three seeds that are really bitter. The lanzones also leaves your fingers quite sticky after eating.

Marang

Ind igenous to Mindanao, the marang fruit looks like a jackfruit or a breadfruit, but locals mostly associate it with the durian. Sharing the same strong odor as the king of tropical fruits, this fruit cannot thrive in regions where the temperature falls below 32 degrees Celsius.

Once you rip open a marang, you have to consume it immediately since it’s highly perishable. It easily oxidizes and loses its flavor.

Apart from being sweet, soft and aromatic, this fruit is also rich in nutrients, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, calcium, protein, carbohydrates and fat among others. The seeds can also be eaten. You can roast it, boil it or process it into flour. u

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

Finding Your True North Text and Photos by Dennis Noel A. Balangue

Get on the right course; proceed in the right direction, and you’ll eventually end up in one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines.

The Thunderbird dome during twilight

Thunderbird Poro Point: A Place of Bliss.

Located six hours away from the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila, this remote paradise seems an out-of-reach, out-of- The Villa’s loft as seen from the living room the-list, and out-of-the-question destination for the weary.

Situated on a 65hectare property vaOn the contrary, once on the North cated by the U.S. Air Luzon Expressway (NLEX), plying a Force in September stretch on the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Ex1991, Thunderbird pressway (SCTEX) and finishing it off Poro Point, formerly on the local scenic highway from Tarlac known as Wallace Air Station, was deto La Union, and after 285 kilometers or signed by well-renowned Spanish archiroughly 30 liters of fuel, you’ll end up in tect Angel Suero. Today, Thunderbird San Fernando and quite near the gates of Poro Point shares the La Union cliffs Thunderbird Poro Point. with VOA (Voice of America).

When one finds oneself standing at the front desk, finalizing the booking, and as the breeze brushes one’s face, one will realize that the journey was worth every hour and every minute.

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At present, the resort boasts of 40 rooms, which can easily accommodate 80 to 100 guests. As of this writing, three luxurious villas are ready for occupancy, including one aptly named Zafra,

balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

Thunderbird Poro Point, a place of bliss

dubbed after a famous town in the province of Badajoz, Spain. Each villa has its own carport, veranda and fully functioning, sleekly designed kitchen.

Its façade and interiors are covered with an ingenious liquid tile paint which surprisingly absorbs heat from the scorching sun; making the walls cool to the touch even on a hot day.

With three rooms, fully-equipped

The Suite’s master bedroom

with flat-screen LCD TVs, a stereo sound system, free and fast WIFI connection, a spacious toilet and bath and strong airconditioning, a fairly-sized family of six, can easily call the villa their home away from home.

Incidentally, five more villas will be ready by the end of 2012 and ten more by 2013. And by the year 2014, condominium-style accommodations are in order via Thunderbird Poro Point’s 51-unit resort condotel. What’s unique about this is, one can own a unit, have it rented, have the resort maintain it, keep it in tip-top shape, use it 30 times a year and eventually, after 15 years, the unit will be turned over to its owner practically brand new.

To date, there is no other place, entity nor developer that offers a deal such as this. Now, if that isn’t pointing you to the right direction, we don’t know what does.

The Point of No Return Some say, there is nothing to do at Thunderbird Poro Point aside from swim in their super-sized infinity pool complete with a mini waterfall as a quaint accent to the already scenic view of the South China Sea. While some insist, that one’s stay will be a bore unless one plays in The Fiesta Casino, which houses the most exciting

table games and high paying slots in the Northern Philippines. Fiesta Casino-Poro Point offers more than 28 table games and more than 250 slot machines that all high rollers, amateur and professional players, and slot players would surely enjoy and spend their time and money for some unmatched fun and excitement.

Now, when spending one’s hardearned cash for some thrill of the roll seems too much, odds are, it’s always a better bet to throw some chips over to a different table.

Reserve one at The Olives, the only fine dining restaurant in Ilocos and North Luzon. It’s also the only dining place that offers Mediterranean fare, and boasts of having the only wood-burning pizza oven in the region that makes two unique bestsellers: the Pizza Ilocano, a thin-crusted pizza topped with tuna, locally-cured tocino, Vigan longganisa, onions and cheddar cheese; and the 4-Ways Pizza, two slices of four mouth-watering flavors namely, pepperoni and bell pepper, goat cheese and artichoke, prosciutto ham and mixed cheeses with herbs and basil.

As for the avid golfer, if one is looking for the next best thing to USA’s Pebble Beach, there’s The Cliffs Golf and Beach Club; a 3,450-yard, par 36, world-class nine-hole golf course designed by the world-renowned International Manage-

The Infinity Pool as seen from the balcony of our suite with the South China Sea providing the backdrop

The Cliffs Golf and Beach Club is one of the most beautiful and scenic seaside courses in the country.

ment Group. It is possibly the only golf course in the Philippines that uses salt water for irrigation and maintenance of its fairways and greens; a brilliant effort to help save the environment.

While Baguio is just an hour away, the stunning all-weather golf course in San Fernando, La Union, offers stunning views of the South China Sea at every hole. It features various contours and challenges, and offers different playing levels to suit amateur and professional golfers alike.

Still, even with the Saphira Spa inroom services, or the outdoor activities like ATVs (All Terrain Vehicles), Jet Skis, surfing lessons, or tours of the north, others remain adamant whether this five-star resort does hold water when it comes to making their guests feel right at home; possibly why most guests, once checked-in, dread the idea of checking out, a real point of no return.

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

The Villa from the outside

Pan-seared Scallops and Prawns In Saffron Sauce

The longest way round is the shortest way home.

And home is where the heart is. One distinct feature of Thunderbird Poro Point is something one cannot touch, taste, hear nor see.

It is simply felt.

Once one sets foot inside the front lobby, a cold welcome drink awaits the tired and weary. Authentic Ilocano smiles accompany cold towels too; a surprisingly refreshing way to cool down after a long and rough drive.

As for our stay, Julienne Guianan, the Front Office Manager, made doubly-sure we had the time of our lives by being available almost 24-7; at our beck and call. It’s like having a personal butler without the stiff upper lip.

Meanwhile, F and B Manager Ferdie Molina gave us a gastronomic experience inside the Olives as they whipped up gourmet dishes with signature cocktail and desserts for good measure. Along with Sous Chef Rey Buenafe, Executive Chef Mike Gross is behind Thunderbird Poro Point’s unforgettable menu.

Now, if there is such a thing as a down-to-earth golf superintendent, one can name him Iggy Yabut. He will make your golfing experience at par even if your score isn’t.

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Thunderbird Poro Point’s key trio (left to right: Ferdie Molina, Iggy Yabut, and Yves Remondeulaz)

And of course, the fruits don’t fall far from the tree. Leading the entire Thunderbird Poro Point staff is Yves Remondeulaz, the resort’s Swiss-French general manager. A veteran director of several resorts here and abroad, Yves showed us how to run a five-star resort focusing first on the guest’s needs to make sure everything runs smoothly and each guest leaves with a yearning to come back the next day.

This leaves us with only one downside of Thunderbird Poro Point: the fact that one has to leave, only to come back again--a bittersweet parting knowing there’s a place waiting somewhere, where the sea breeze meets the cliffs, where the

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tired is rejuvenated, and where the hungry is fed with a feast.

When one is still in the search for a home away from home, start driving.

Thunderbird Poro Point can very well be your true north. Thunderbird Poro Point can very well be your true north. u Thunderbird Resorts - Poro Point VOA Compound, Pennsylvania Avenue, San Fernando City, La Union, Philippines 2500 E: pororeservations @thunderbird-asia.com T: (+63 72) 888 7777 F: (+63 72) 888 3888

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INDUSTRY

Reluctant Hero Pays It Forward Entrepreneur Arnold Bagabaldo is the reluctant hero in his own life story but in so many ways he epitomizes the ‘tiyaga at katatagan‘ spirit that defines the Filipino will to overcome all odds and succeed.

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t is this resilience he hopes will carry him through his newest venture and the launch of Pinoy Health Plus, a game-changing health insurance developed for overseas Filipinos to better provide for their family and friends in the Philippines.

“The stakes are higher; Pinoy Health Plus is very personal for me. It is much more than just business’” explains Arnold who is finally fulfilling a promise he made more than 20 years ago ‘to give something back to the Filipino community’ as payment for his university education in the United States.

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There is no doubt the burden of responsibility he feels weighs heavy, not just in honoring his historic commitment but more, to succeed in making a significant difference to the lives of millions of Filipinos.

But, he says, he is no moral crusader or budding saint. “Deep down, my motivation is very selfish; I just don’t want to disappoint anyone if it doesn’t all go to plan.”

From a man who learned the harsh realities of life as a child selling cigarettes and washing cars on the streets of Tondo and Ermita to help his mother make ends meet, made a fortune and then lost it only to start over again, he rates Pinoy Health Plus as his most daunting challenge.

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‘There is a human aspect to Pinoy Health Plus which connects directly to the Filipino principle of the family being at the heart of everything we do,” explains the father of two (and another 200 if you include the employees at his pioneer BPO company iVentures where he is fondly known as Tito Arnold).

If Pinoy Health Plus does well it will make affordable, comprehensive health care accessible to potentially millions of Balikbayan-supported families throughout the Philippines. Is he worried?

Not in the least, he says. Having lived and worked for many years in the United States and traveled extensively to other parts of the world, he knows there is both a

need and a demand for what Pinoy Health Plus has to offer.

An eye for opportunity, excellent timing, a strong team to support him and more than a healthy dose of good luck are consistent features of his repeated successes.

He turned his first venture in the early ‘90s custom assembling computers in his bedroom for fellow students into a thriving computer store (remind you of anyone?), sold it then invested the proceeds in another start-up, Dynalink Telecom, selling cheap phone minutes in the United States to Filipinos to call home.

At its peak, the business was handling more than 40 million minutes of phone time from the United States to the Philippines every month--more even than AT&T--and his monthly revenue was counted in millions of dollars.

“It was too successful too quickly but I was naïve,” says Arnold who attracted the wrong attention and was priced out of the market by the larger international phone companies.

With what little he had left after folding the company, he took time out to reflect on “what next” only for his life to take an entirely unexpected direction on the arm of his wife of 10 years, Cindy.

“Having a family gives you a completely different perspective. It grounds you and teaches you what is most valuable and important in life,” he reflects.

Newly married, the couple settled in Manila and, seeing an opportunity to apply his technical skills to the emerging BPO market, he created Callworx, growing the company from an initial 28 employees to 250 in just two years before being acquired

by US-based The Resource Group.

Determined to repeat this success he immediately set up iVentures but five years down the line, the drive to build it up and cash in his chips has gone. As a platform for future ventures, the company is now too important to sell.

“It was never about the money. I have everything I will ever need but it took me time to fully appreciate that. Now, I

am motivated much more by providing opportunity for others, to give others some of the chances I have been fortunate to receive along the way.

“I don’t believe in kawanggawa,” he said, pointing that if you give money to others they will only become more dependent on you. Instead of giving someone a fish, why not just teach him how to fish?

It is on this principle that Pinoy Health Plus is founded.

“The rewards are just as tangible as cash but significantly more satisfying, none more so than the prospect of helping millions of Filipinos live longer, more enriched and fulfilled lives,” he adds selfishly. u

For more information, please visit www.pinoyhealthplus.com

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INDUSTRY

EDDIE C. FERRER: Foremost Fil-Am Custom Broker

By Dan E. Nino | Photos by Ding Carreon

The spiritual upbringing of Eddie Caguioa Ferrer is what probably keeps him grounded, despite his many accomplishments as an entrepreneur and a businessman.

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hen he was younger, Mr. Ferrer wanted to become a priest. But somehow, this dream eluded him. He attended the Mary Help of Christians Seminary in Binmaley, Pangasinan, and later went to the Abbey of Our Lady of Montserrat in Manila, under the Benedictine Order, as a first step to priesthood.

His spiritual vocation was derailed, when he opted to move to St. Louis University in Baguio City, where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with minors in English and History.

While in college, he had his hands full.

He was the editor-in-chief of White & Blue (the university-wide campus organ), which earned for him a scholarship grant. He was also working full time as a radio broadcaster at DZWT in Baguio City. Then, he became the station manager, overseeing the news, musical and drama shows, special events and advertising. His most memorable coverage was the Philippine papal visit of Pope Paul VI in 1970.

After college, Ferrer taught History and English at St. Louis University Boys High School . He also became a Communication Arts teacher at the university level.

His other dream to be a lawyer was also derailed. After his second year in Law school at St. Louis University, Baguio City, he de-

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cided to go to the United States in 1974, in search of greener pastures. Using his background in law school, Ferrer chose to be a customs broker. After all, being a custom broker also entails a lot of dealings with the law.

In the United States, he worked as the operations manager of Arthur J. Fritz & Company (AJFC), a brokerage and transportation firm. After that, he became the marketing manager of Landbridge Shipping Corp., a division of AJFC. He set up the Speedway Company, a division of Sunjin Shipping of Korea, and became its manager at the Long Beach office. This was followed by his stint as vice president for marketing of Trans Intermodal Shipping (also in Long Beach).

With his valuable and vast experiences from his previous employment, Ferrer established his own company in 1985: E.C. Ferrer Custom House Broker, Inc. It is a full-service custom brokerage, freight forwarding and logistics operation company located at Atlantic Blvd in Long Beach, CA. This Filipino-owned firm is now the leader in custom brokerage in the United States--with 15 employees and three departments, namely: custom, shipping, and export.

Starting the company was not a walk in the park. “I started with nothing,” he said.

“Because of the friendship I established, my old clients followed me. I struggled everyday.

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We were vulnerable. It’s a risky business. But I saw the hands of God.” Although Ferrer is already well-established in the United States, he still yearns to see corrupt- and red tape-free customs operations in Manila.

“We always maintain ethical ways of doing our business and follow strictly the laws and regulations of every country we deal with. We always try to envision what we can do for the Philippines to improve its economy,” Ferrer said.

With the nature of his business, his company depends heavily on a huge warehouse, where products for exports and imports are processed. A visit to the warehouse facility yielded boxes and contraptions carrying assorted goods ready to be shipped out to Mexico, Canada, Australia, Europe, and other Asian countries, or to be distributed in various parts of the United States.

Ferrer emphasized that in order for his company to thrive, he and his employees constantly attend seminars. Sometimes, he even conducts the seminars himself.

In fact, after the Gala Night and Induction Ball of Pangasinan Brotherhood (PB)USA, wherein he was sworn in as its new president, his company conducted a seminar for mainstream business owners in the industry.

Despite his hectic schedule as the head of E.C. Ferrer CHB, Inc., Ferrer remains

The warehouse located across town of Carson is the staging area of goods ready for shipment overseas or to be transported in continental USA.

Key decisions are decided by CEO Eddie C. Ferrer, COO Jackie M. Ferrer & Personnel Manager Rhenee M. Ferrer.

aware of his social responsibilities. He provides assistance to the community through scholarship grants, cultural programs, and church-related projects.

Ferrer is also an active member of the Filipino leadership of St. Irenaeus Church in Cypress, CA; he was former vice president for programs of the Philippine Society of Southeast Los Angeles; former president of the Fil-Am Association of Orange County; is an active member of Dagupan City Club of Southern California; a prime mover of Project Tulong Benedictine Priory Sisters in Calapan, Mindoro; an originator in the construction of a chapel in Madras, India, for Bishop Ambrose and Rev. Fr. Arul Raz; and at the forefront of the fundraising effort for

E. C. Ferrer Custom House Broker, Inc.’s staff and executives comprising customs, shipping and export.

Employees of E. C. Ferrer Custom House Broker, Inc. in the warehouse keep the shipment on time

Alaminos City Seminary and Church.

His company is a member of the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America and the Los Angeles Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America. His company now partners with Customs in fighting terrorism, after having been certified as member of the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism in 2003.

Now that he is in his prime, the 68year-old Ferrer trains his youngest daughter, Jacqueline, by letting her take charge of the day-to-day operations. Jacqueline currently serves as chief operating officer of E.C. Ferrer CHB, Inc..

Speaking about her father, Jacqueline

said that Ferrer “is hardworking and determined to achieve results in a short span of time. He is always in compliance with customs laws and regulations because this industry is well-regulated. He believes in teamwork, ethical service and sharing industry knowledge. He reminds us to be honest and to tell our clients what they are up against because every country has its different set of customs laws.”

Despite his various endeavors as entrepreneur, businessman and community leader, Ferrer still enjoys quality “Me” time by going to the gym, meditating or taking long drives with his wife, Rhenee.

After all, there is more to life than work. u

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INDUSTRY

Pixie’s Sinugba, Incorporated The healthy concept of the business is what defined Pixie’s Sinugba. The richness in protein of the boneless bangus (milk fish) served by Pixie’s is perfect for the health buff.

Its humble beginning in Tondo, Manila, in 2003 paved for the opening of a small takeout outlet for their number one product: grilled boneless bangus.

In a short period of time the demand for other milk fish products increased.

The distinct mouth-watering taste of Pixie’s various bangus dishes delighted customers in a unique way, giving them a take on a truly healthy diet.

The demand for healthy food created a market for Pixie’s. Its customers played a vital role in promoting healthy products.

Through word-of-mouth the marketing of its bangus dishes became so much easier. The demand for seafood dishes in Pixie’s menu skyrocketed. Surprisingly, some customers were already asking if the company was open for franchising.

The business then started to make noise in the local food industry. It was in August 2007 when the company owners finally decided to join the FRANCORP. Slowly, Pixie’s opened the avenue for franchisers to join its family. During that year the company had an overwhelming swamp of franchise applications.

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balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

Grilling Area

Kitchen Area

Bangus Lumpia

Liempo Classic

Tilapcharap

Inihaw na relyenong bangus

Inang gulay

The franchise outlet start up investment is only P700,000, with a requirement area of 20 square meters, while the location must be along major roads. The franchise contract is valid for up to five years. On the other hand, dine-in stores are available for a start-up of at least P2.8 million.

Currently, the company is being managed by its new chief operations officer Andre Tagle, who took his post in January this year. Under Tagle’s management, Pixie’s undergoes serious expansion in the business. The company is now venturing into the Asian market, particularly in Jakarta, Indonesia. Also, they already put up a branch in San Francisco, USA.

Pixie’s Sky Garden - SM North Edsa

Front row: L to R - Julito Ong - Franchise Manager, Shery Ann Limbauan- marketing head, Jhoanna Advincula - operations office, Jefferson Collodel - area manager 2nd row: Elysha Marie Huervana - accounting officer, Hanie Joy Gellano - finance head, Nemia Blanca Narca - HR Head, Jonah Mie Gatinao - procurement officer, Carla Jane Serrato - admin secretary, April Pilayo legal secretary, Rhea Joy Genisan - accounting head

Andre L. Tagle - Chief Operations Officer/Francise Director

Company Information Office Address: Unit 408 Corporate 101 Building Mother Ignacia St. Corner Panay Ave., Quezon City

Franchise Information There are two available franchise options open in the company: one is the takeout outlet and the other is dine-in.

CONTACT NUMBER: (02) 383-2983 EMAIL ADDRESS: franchise@pixiessinugba.com SAN FRANCISCO BRANCH: 5672 Mission Street, San Francisco, California, 94112

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INDUSTRY

Dental Visits are More Fun in the

Philippines A smile is a universal language, so they say. And when it comes to the greatest smiles in the world, nothing could beat the warm, genuine smiles of the Filipinos. NU.U Asia Cosmetic Dentistry (one of the country’s leading names in cosmetic dentistry) gives you five reasons why dental visits and oral hygiene are definitely more fun in the Philippines.

NU.U Asia The Fort Branch Photo by Jeffrey Bulanadi

Filipino doctors, world-class expertise

NU.U Asia’s dentists Drs. Carlito Librando, Nelda Valencia Eufemio, and Mia Rosette Valencia Angeles

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balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

NU.U Asia’s dentists: Drs. Nelda Valencia Eufemio, Mia Rosette Valencia Angeles, and Carlito Librando, have undergone several dental trainings with local and international intuitions. “We are always abroad to keep ourselves updated with the latest technology that we can apply in our dental practice,” says Dr. Eufemio. NU.U Asia’s dentists commit themselves to continuous dental education around the world, ensuring that the clinic is up-to-date with the latest dental procedures.

ZOOM! Teeth Whitening Equipment Photo by Jeffrey Bulanadi

World’s latest form of anaesthesia applicator—the revolutionary Wand Plus Photo by Jeffrey Bulanadi.

Luxurious dental clinics

Both NU.U Asia’s The Fort and Greenhills branches exude the modern and chic ambiance that most dental clinics in Manila are still trying to nail down. The combination of dark wood plus clean, white surfaces underlines the luxurious comfort the clinic is famous for.

Cosmetic Dentistry at its Finest

Using the latest equipment in dental technology, NU.U Asia offers the best dental cosmetic treatments such as Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Cosmetic Bonding, Gum Re-contouring, Orthodontics, General Dentistry, and Invisalign treatment or “invisible braces.” The clinic pioneered the use of the revolutionary Wand Plus (the most modern anesthesia applicator) in the Philippines.

“Patients can be assured that [the service] they’ll be getting is of premium quality,” says Dr. Angeles. “All materials used at our center are of supreme type, making our work truly world-class and unmatched.”

Your dentist, your best friend

Gone are days when a trip to your dentist feels as gruelling as your college entrance exam. Your friendly, neighborhood dentists from NU.U. Asia will not just take care for your oral health, but will also be your friends for life.

NU.U Asia Greenhills Branch Photo by Jeffrey Bulanadi

“[Our patients] would often come back to see us not for a dental appointment but just to chitchat and catch up on each other’s lives, thus making our practice more worthwhile,” Dr. Angeles shares.

(NU.U Asia is planning to open its third branch in Quezon City this year.

Interested parties who wish to have their treatments or check-ups at the Greenhills branch could call + 63 2 7270001 local 253 to set an appointment.

Meanwhile, for those who wish to have appointments at NU. U Asia’s The Fort branch, you may call any of the three telephone numbers: + 63 2 8563641, +63 2 5023060, and +63 2 8465013.) balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

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Keep in touch. Be updated.

Bridge the distance with a trusted source. balikbayan October 2012 – November 2012

55

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

Noel Cruz:

Dolled Up Masterpieces

By Kristine Bernadeth T. Manaog | Photos courtesy of Noel Cruz

For some artists, their canvas may be a wall, a face, a naked body, or a sheet of paper. But for Filipino artist Noel Cruz, the plain face of a doll is his canvas. He skillfully repaints to add a touch of magic to it—making his masterpiece incomparable to its original state and transforming it into the likeness of a celebrity or a famous fictional character.

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rt can be expressed through a variety of medium or form, and for Cruz, repainting these dolls adds “emotion” and “life” to their expressionless faces. The miniature dolls he creates are not just dolls. They are valuable collectibles that showcase the craftsmanship of a great Filipino painter.

The Artist and His Dolls

Noel Cruz can be considered one of the most versatile artists of today. He is a distinguished repaint artist, whose dolls appeared on the Internet in 2007--particularly the $3,500-worth Angelina Jolie doll posted on eBay which captured the media’s attention.

The $3,500 Angelina Jolie doll is a miniature version of the Hollywood actress. Adding Angelina Jolie’s signature tattoo would entail an additional cost.

Cruz’s repainted dolls are fashioned after several celebrities and fictional characters including Kristen Stewart, Johnny Depp, Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz, and Rose of Titanic, to name a few. Cruz makes use of stock dolls manufactured by Tonner Doll Company, Mattel, Integrity Toys, and Superdolls, which vary from 12 to 17 inches in height. The larger fashion dolls are Cruz’s usual canvas, as they tend to be more popular among repaint doll collectors.

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Cruz started painting in 2001. He was browsing the Internet to purchase a Gene doll for his wife and stumbled upon life-like painted dolls.

“Upon closer examination, I realized that these were regular line 16-inch fashion dolls with their factory facial paint completely removed and then repainted to look more lifelike,” said Cruz. “The difference between the factory version and the repainted version was quite dramatic and immediately piqued my interest.”

Cruz shared that faces have always intrigued him. This fascination led him to mastering portraits. His long-standing hobby of collecting memorabilia from the 1970s TV show, Bionic Woman (starring Lindsay Wagner) was also instrumental in his pursuit of drawing portraits.

“Faces have always fascinated me and I spent a great deal of my childhood learning how to draw portraits,” shared Cruz. “So when I saw these repainted dolls, it dawned on me that the process was very similar to creating a portrait—only, instead of creating it on a flat surface, the canvas (doll’s face) is three-dimensional.”

Determined to learn the craft, Cruz dedicated his time to constantly practice and master the technique. After some time, he made an attempt to sell his first repainted doll on eBay, marking the start of his unique career as a repaint doll artist.

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Repainting Miniature Thriller

Bionic Woman Lindsay Wagner Custom Doll Repaint

Asked if the process of learning the craft is easy, Cruz told Balikbayan Magazine that, “Upon discovering this new ‘art form,’ I immediately wanted to learn how to create one myself. At first, I was very confident that I would be able to make a repaint just as good as the ones I’ve seen on eBay, having drawn portraits all my life. However, I quickly realized that painting on a three dimensional surface presents its own unique set of challenges [that are] very different from drawing portrait on paper. My first attempt was unsuccessful, as it did not sell. But I did not stop. Learning the craft came through much patience and practice—[I made] a lot of mistakes but [learned] from them eventually.”

The Process

As a full-time repaint doll artist, Cruz makes sure that he is updated on current celebrity dolls being produced by manufacturers, in order to allow him to recreate the doll and diversify it--making it more realistic than what was originally produced. Repainting a doll could take three days to two weeks, depending on the amount of work involved and the complexity of the celebrity or character doll to be created.

The process involves removing all the factory paint then repainting the doll’s face in the likeness of the celebrity or character peg, making the dolls look life-like and authentic.

Cruz makes use of a variety of fine brushes, top-of-the-line acrylic paint, acetone, doll brush, and hair perming techniques for hairstyling.

But for Cruz, the most important tool is “…having the skills and astute understanding of the human face. And if the repaint involves the likeness of a specific person, then an eye for capturing the exact likeness is key.”

Repainting a Custom Painting Harry Potter Doll Miniature Thriller

Repainting Mary Poppins Doll

Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie Doll Repaint

Nicole Kidman Doll Repaint

After his sudden rise to fame in 2008, due to the garnered media attention of his Angelina Jolie doll, it was easier for Cruz to assert his creativity. It was such a huge exposure for Cruz, seeing his work in countless publications in both print and online media around the world.

“When you have been struggling for the better part of your life to sell your artwork to try to make a living, it is a pretty dramatic change to have the media exposure on a global level,” shared Cruz. “This just motivated and inspired me even further to challenge myself and to live up to the standards I have set for myself.”

With that, he began to enjoy the luxury of being more creative and selective of his commissioned works. “I do accept commission work every now and then, but the bulk of my work consists of dolls that I am personally inspired to create.... I still accept commission work but tend to be more selective. If it is a project or a celebrity I am excited about, then I usually accept it,” said Cruz. His dolls are

currently on sale on eBay ranging from $400 to $3,000, while commissioned works start at $1,000 for a 12-inch doll, and $1,250 for 16-inch dolls.

As of this writing, Cruz posted a brand new 16-inch Marilyn Monroe doll sculpt, created by Tonner Doll Company for bidding on eBay. Cruz said that this is his first Marilyn Monroe doll repaint on an actual Monroe sculpt, as opposed to the manufactured doll sculpt.

Besides selling repainted dolls, Cruz also utilizes eBay for selling portraits and photographs. He also manages his website and other sites to promote his repainted dolls.

Cruz also spends time collecting memorabilia of The Bionic Woman and Hot Toys action figures, and enjoys traveling with his wife. He currently resides in California in the United States with his wife and son. u To know more about Noel Cruz’s creation, you may view all his dolls in this website. http://www.ncruz.com

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ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

The Kiko Factor

By Nickee De Leon-Huld | Photos by Niña Sandejas

“I’ve yet to accomplish being a millionaire from doing all these things. I’m just trying to make an honest living, and that’s all there is to it. I always, always, want to be better at what I’m doing, whatever it may be—even if it’s only for myself and nobody notices the subtle developments.”

– Francis S. Reyes

Francis Florentino Saludo Reyes is a man who needs no lengthy introduction.

In a nutshell, Francis (or Kiko to most of his peers) is a prominent musician, radio host and music writer/blogger. He was a member of high-profile Pinoy bands, The Dawn and Afterimage. He was also the former chief DJ (aka Francis Brew) and musical director of the now-defunct, Home of NU Rock (NU 107).

Yet, with everything that Francis has accomplished, there’s one quality about him that struck me the most--he is just, genuinely, a really nice guy.

Backstory

Flashback to more than a decade ago: I was a twentysomething gig and music junkie, who rattled the racks of Tower Records and Music One in Glorietta and Greenbelt.

Of course, it also meant that I sporadically splurged on a couple of CDs, albeit with my measly salary.

But the highlight of my visits to Tower Records was getting a complimentary copy of Pulp Magazine (which, in reality, was not “free” because there was a minimum purchase requirement.)

It was through the pages of Pulp that I first got acquainted with Francis’ writing.

Most were reviews of gigs and albums, or interviews with up and coming local bands. In retrospect, his album reviews influenced most of my purchase decisions.

From his seemingly nonchalant writing style and well-modulated radio voice, I prefigured that he would be one of those snooty, stiff-upper-lip types.

Boy, was I wrong.

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N-I-C-E

It never occurred to me that I would be able to meet Francis in person.

He probably doesn’t even remember, but to this day, I still owe him a cup of brew.

Along with a common friend, we went for coffee at Robinson’s Galleria. The name of the coffee place now escapes me, but I still remember the look of restrained disbelief on his face, when I mistakenly put sugar and cream in his coffee.

I was so embarrassed and offered to get him another cup, but he declined. “Maybe next time,” he said. That “next time” has not materialized since.

Another incident would validate his admirable qualities even further. We were at Bahay ng Alumni in U.P. for a gig, when I realized that my cellphone was missing (at that time, losing a cellphone was a big deal).

I started walking around and combing the dark sidewalk, hoping and praying that I would eventually find it.

It was at this point when Francis started walking with me (not just within the vicinity of Bahay ng Alumni, but further down) to spots in campus where we’ve been earlier.

We never found the phone of course, but being helped by someone who seemed so “up there” was quite comforting.

More than 10 years and thousands of miles later, I approached him on Facebook-he’s still the same down-to-earth guy. You’d expect people like Francis to delay a bit, especially because of the time difference and the fact that he’s busy traveling, writing and interviewing foreign music acts/personalities. But he was very prompt in responding

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and accommodating the interview, though only via social media.

Francis, unplugged

Balikbayan Magazine (BM): What’s a typical day like for Francis Reyes?

Francis Reyes (FR): Nothing particularly exciting. I wake up, have a glass of water, pick up a guitar, make coffee [and] maybe have breakfast and just practice in front of a TV. I eat a lot of corn--everyday almost.

Niña (Niña Sandejas is Francis’ long-time girlfriend- Ed.) and I would often run a movie or TV series marathon. I think we finished Full Metal Alchemist in a week. On days when there’s work, it changes a bit but generally I stay home and hold a guitar. When we go out and party a bit, it’s still work-related.

BM: Who would you say are your musical and literary influences?

FR: I have many, many, many, musical influences but Pat Metheny is number one-mostly because of the breadth of his work.

He’s a virtuoso jazz guitarist but his compositions cover the entire gamut of musical genres and his melodies are always catchy, regardless of the nature of the pieces. He has a very open attitude with music and I always aspire to that. Unfortunately, I’m nowhere near as smart as him (laughs).

I don’t have any specific literary influences. I mean I do like Alan Lightman, Neil Gaiman and Clive Barker, but I’ll read anything, really. One of my favorite books is Stephen Jay Gould’s I Have Landed and I’ve

resurrect NU; we (the last batch of NU jocks and a couple of associates) just wanted to continue where it left off, in some small way, and the model was NU. And frankly... we just wanted to keep working together and stay in touch. We tried our very best. It was a painful, professional rebound thing.

BM: I read the article you wrote about Cynthia Alexander in OMG! Yahoo and also had the opportunity to view parts of the video.

Based on the article, you said that Cynthia’s reason for leaving is that she had very limited support from the music industry in the Philippines. As a musician yourself, do you think this is the reality that Filipino musicians (especially indie bands) are now facing? What do you think were the reasons/causes for it?

joy the Rock Awards; everything was chaotic backstage but as long as the show ran smoothly on the outside, we felt relieved. Now, I miss that stress and tension. I guess what made me special was...well no matter how dire the situation was in anything we did, I was there, trying my personal best to help make things work. I was a team player. It was family... everyone was special really--except for the people we fired (laughs).

read many books on Zen and spirituality. I mostly look for biographies; I like having insights on how great people in history lived.

You can’t know Miles Davis based on a book, but his music is illuminated a bit more if you understand, or think you understand, how he lived.

BM: It’s been almost two years since NU 107 was reformatted and The Home of NU Rock was removed from the airwaves. Looking back, what are your most fond memories of NU107? What do you think made Francis Brew a special part of the whole NU experience?

FR: Everything about NU is a fond memory... although I’m saying that through the filter of sentimentality (laughs). The pay wasn’t much... and whenever I had to work on the Rock Awards, it was at least three months of stress up--until the very last minute of the show. I never had the time to en-

BM: I witnessed the soft launch days of DIG Radio. Some people consider the move as a means to resurrect NU 107. What do you think makes DIG Radio unique? What do you think will make it survive and thrive?

FR: I resigned from DIG/Pinoytuner in December [2011] actually. There were some business decisions that felt very wrong to me and to a lot of other key people who were there, before my team and I came in. The advocacy is noble and honest: support local musicians; present them to the world via the internet. But it is a business... and for a young company, I felt that the business side was being rushed very prematurely. For it to survive, I do believe that they have to accept that making money from internet in a country that suffers from terrible internet infrastructure issues will take a long, long time. Most of us were willing to make it work almost for free and we were willing to invest years into it, because we believed in its potential and we wanted it to be a legitimate platform for music. There are still very creative people in there and content-wise, it’s good. I hope the bosses take care of the talent [that’s] still left in there. We didn’t go in there to

FR: I’m pretty sure she has other personal reasons for moving, but based on what she said in interviews and in her farewell gigs (and what she’s told me personally), yes a part of it is support for her music. I got some flak for the “lack of support” statement, but really I was referring to mainstream radio that doesn’t pay her attention. It’s frustrating because her songs (even if some of the musical arrangements may be a bit “exotic” for mainstream ears) are actually intelligent and catchy pop. NU107 knew that, of course, but it’s gone now. These days, unless you’re crass novelty or candy gloss pop, good luck trying to get your song on radio. It’s been dumbed down (radio), but it sells. When times are hard economically, less media outlets take risks. It’s a reality that’s difficult to accept, but easy to understand. I’m not against any form of music, even if it’s extremely commercial American Idol-stuff; I just wish there were other forms of music that would be given some space and offer some balance. I do believe that good music always resonates with people and I know good record company people and good radio people know this.

Unfortunately, corporations run everything.

If it sells, turn it into a formula. Repeat until massive profit. Commerce has always run the business, let’s be honest. But these days, commerce is absolutely everything. You know what I’m saying?

BM: Most people perceive you as an icon --as Kiko, the awe-inspiring guitarist and Francis Brew, the eloquent DJ and prolific music writer. You were also an integral part of The Dawn, and are currently blogging for OMG! Yahoo Philippines. At this juncture in your career, what else is out there for you to accomplish?

What keeps you motivated?

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FR: What keeps me motivated is the discomfort I always feel no matter what I do.

I’m flattered that you think I’m eloquent, but I can’t agree with it. There’s always someone who does what I do and I always go, “Wow... why didn’t I do it like THAT? Why didn’t I see it like that? Why didn’t I hear it like that?” I mean whenever I submit an article or play guitar in public, it’s always, “… Can I take it back please? “ Because after I’ve achieved a deadline, there is always, “but wait there’s more!” When I’ve submitted something, I guess there’s a detachment, and then you view what you’ve done objectively and you get even more insights and perspectives and realize you haven’t really captured everything in your head. I get lost in my own maze when I’m doing something so I try to take a step back during the process.

I’ve yet to accomplish being a millionaire from doing all these [expletive] things (laughs). I’m just trying to make an honest living, and that’s all there is to it. I always, always, want to be better at what I’m doing, whatever it may be--even if it’s only for myself and nobody notices the subtle developments.

BM: In terms of your music and writing, how much would you say you’ve grown?

FR: Not as much as I’d like. I had serious creative self-esteem issues in my last years with the band. I began to think if whatever I was doing had any value: if they’re not in-

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terested, then I must suck. I mean, anything I learned, I would always bring it back to the band. That was home see? Truthfully, I’m still struggling a bit although when I wrote a few pieces for the soundtrack of Mike Sandejas’ Dinig Sana Kita in 2009, I felt a little more validated. Got a couple awards too; that was nice. Couple that with worrying about NU107’s fate all the way back to ‘99.

I’m feeling really good this year, fortunately. Got a band together with Japs Sergio called Peso Movement. We’re playing original material, and if it works commercially, great.

No pressure on that end at all; we just want to play and express ourselves and what happens next is icing [on the cake]. It feels like everybody’s first band... with a lot of experience holding it together. I’ve also made a handful of electronica/rock pieces for my private amusement over the last few years, so maybe I’ll bring them out soon. Hopefully, they don’t suck (laughs).

BM: It seems that even at a young age you were already musically inclined (and a persuasive public speaker at that!) How was the challenging journey to success like? How would you encourage those who are still struggling to live their dreams?

FR: Those oratorical/declamation things I did as a kid definitely made me feel comfortable being on a stage... even if the reality is I can be irritatingly shy (well irritating for everybody else) on most normal days.

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Early on, I had terrible stage fright until I hit the first syllable... and then there is nothing else but doing what you have to do. I used to puke before every gig. Then you hit the first note... boom, you’re on your way. And hopefully, you’re making sense (laughs).

Success is in the mind. I’ve played in front of thousands of people and felt like a total [expletive] up for 90 minutes, and then there’s that gig where there’s just ten people and you feel like you rule the world. In terms of material success, it’s really a lot of work, a lot of getting along well with people you work with, and some luck (or blessings from above if you like). But I don’t aggressively pursue material success; I’ve always been very careful about stepping on other people’s toes so I guess that’s what limits me.

I’m always thankful for whatever comes my way--always. Everything is a blessing, an opportunity to improve, learn [and] get better. I still have a lot of dreams so there’s still a ways to go. And hopefully, it will put a little money in your pocket (laughs) and you save up.

BM: Lastly, what do you want to be your legacy/lasting imprint to society?

FR: I never think of that. There are a lot more people holding more noble positions in society who should have that responsibility. I just want to do what I do honestly, one project at a time. And hopefully, not starve along the way (laughs). u

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LIFESTYLE&CULTURE

Old Colonial Churches: Manila’s Historical Treasures

By Oliver Bayani

San Agustin Church Photo by Abe Olandres

Santuario Santo Cristo Photo by Genesis Reonico

Whether or not you’re religious, it’s undeniable that churches are among man’s most stunning creations. A heritage Spain left after 300 years of colonial rule, the Philippines is dotted with breathtaking examples.

T

here is one in almost all provincial cities and towns, all attractive in its own right.

But the loveliest, oldest and best preserved houses of worship are found in Manila. Chances are you’ll be able to spot the towering spires of these monoliths in most parts of the city, patiently watching the neighborhood evolve into the metro that it is today.

From the back alley of Tondo, to the hills where the first battles of the Philippine Revolution began, I have scoured the city and found the most remarkable churches in the capital city of the only Catholic country in Asia.

San Agustin Church

Completed in 1607, San Agustin is the oldest stone church in the Philippines, a title it earned by defying several earthquakes, fires and being the only building standing in Intramuros after World War II. The reason why it stood for the past 408 years is the use of solid adobe blocks for pretty much everything. The Augustinian Friars decided to use the material after the first and second versions of the church burned down in 1574 and 1583.

Numerous important events in the country’s history were held within its walls. The first Church Council and National Synod were held here in 1578 and 1581, respectively. Even the conditions of Spain’s surrender to the Americans were drafted here in 1898.

San Agustin also houses the remains of

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the founder of the city of Manila, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, and his grandsons Salcedo, Lavezares, and Blessed Pedro de Zuniga.

Outside, the Cathedral is guarded by Chinese lion statues, a legacy of the Philippines’ long history with the Chinese.

Fittingly, the church was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993--a distinction its rich history helped earn.

Manila Cathedral

Its weathered façade and bell towers seemed to have stood there unchanged since Spanish times, but the Manila Cathedral we see today is actually just 58 years old.

Official records say that that the church is the end result of eight reconstructions since it was first built out of nipa and bamboo in 1581. It has been ceaselessly rebuilt by its devotees despite being destroyed by fire, typhoons and seven earthquakes in the last 429 years.

The cathedral was reduced to pebbles along with the rest of Intramuros in the Battle of Manila in 1945 during World War II and was rebuilt for the eighth time in 1958.

Possibly off the tourist route is the crypt found underneath its floors where Manila archbishops are buried, just as the crypts of St. Peter’s in the Vatican keep the bodies of former Popes. If you’re looking for information on the Cathedral’s history, don’t forget to check the eight beautiful, seemingly cryptic bronze panels fitted on its main door that may arouse the curiosity of Dan Brown fans.

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San Sebastian Church

The aquamarine-tinted San Sebastian Church takes pride as the only all-steel church in Asia, and the second structure of its kind in the world, after the Eiffel Tower of Paris.

In response to earthquakes and fires that destroyed the earlier San Sebastian churches, the Augustinian Recollects decided to rebuild the church entirely out of steel. Local artisans headed by Spanish architect Genaro Palacio assembled the church from pre-fabricated parts shipped from Belgium for two years. The church was completed in 1891.

Rumors say that its metal structure was designed by Alexander Gustave Eiffel, the French architect behind the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty. Official catalogues of Eiffel revealed that steel parts for a church were bound for Manila in 1875--13 years before the actual construction of San Sebastian began.

This one-of-a-kind relic is a declared National Historical Landmark and tentatively listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006. However, the church was also listed among the 1998 World’s Most Endangered Sites by the World Monuments Watch.

Steel, it turned out, was not as indestructible as the Augustinians thought it would be, as rainwater continues to gnaw some parts of the 120-year-old basilica.

Malate Church

A stone’s throw away from Manila Bay, Malate Church is the first church to be constructed outside Intramuros, the heartland of Philippine commerce and religion in Spanish colonial times.

The church dates back to 1588, but the original building was demolished on 1661 due to fears that Lim Hong, a Chinese pirate, might use the church as a garrison, in his attempted invasion of Manila. It was later rebuilt and completed in 1679.

The church lay witness to the short-lived British occupation of Manila, when it was used as a military headquarters in 1762. The church standing today was rebuilt after Malate Church was ruined by the great 1863 earthquake that either destroyed or severely damaged all the churches in this list.

The church is the home of Nuestra Senora delos Remedios (Our Lady of Remedies), the parishes’ Patroness, delivered here in 1624 by galleons from Andalucia, Spain.

Tondo Church

Santo Niño de Tondo Church is one of the most visited churches in the Philippines.

Tourists and devotees of the Child Jesus

flock here by the thousands every third Sunday of January, to celebrate the Feast Day of the Sto. Niño.

An ivory image of the Sto. Niño shipped via galleon from Acapulco, Mexico in the 1570s is kept within its walls. Sources point out that the church was built around the 1600s beside an Augustinian Convent established close to a hundred years before.

Like most churches at that time, Tondo Church was ravaged by natural calamities and war but was rebuilt stronger with better materials and designs. It was damaged by the Chinese revolt in 1641 and an earthquake in 1645. Together with Malate Church in 1661, it was wrecked upon orders of the Governor General over fears of Lim Hong’s attempted invasion. It was rebuilt a year after.

Borrowing design cues from the all-steel San Sebastian Church, the domes of the current Tondo Church has been reinforced with steel frames and used iron sheets for the roofing all imported from England. The decision came after the great 1863 earthquake damaged the building.

A little known fact about the church is that Jose Rizal was temporarily buried here after his execution in Bagumbayan.

His remains were only transferred to the Rizal monument at the Luneta when the Americans came. Also, the remains of the three martyred priests; Burgos, Gomez, and Zamora (who were executed through garrote in 1872) were also secretly interred here.

Binondo Church

During Spanish rule, pure-blooded Chinese and Chinese-Filipino Catholics were banned from entering Intramuros to visit famous churches like San Agustin and the Manila Cathedral. As converts in the Chinese community grew, they soon built their own cathedral--Binondo Church.

Found in the heart of Chinatown, the original church was founded by Dominican priests in 1596, but succeeding versions of the church was destroyed by the Chinese revolt in 1603 and the invading British forces in 1762.

The corner stone of this church was laid

by Francisco de la Cuesta in 1720, then Archbishop of Manila and the most powerful man in the country, acting as Governor General of the Philippines.

Sta. Ana Church is the home of the Our Lady of the Abandoned. A little known fact is that the icon kept in Sta. Ana is actually just a copy of the original statue in Valencia, Spain. On the other hand, the beautiful baton it’s holding is no reproduction. The crystal baton, a symbol of authority, was previously owned by the Archbishop.

The ground where the church stands hold a great historical importance: the National Museum excavated an impressive collection of Pre-Hispanic artifacts in 1966 on its site.

The oldest of them was a white and blue ceramic, with floral designs that date back to the 11th century.

Quiapo Church

There’s no denying that Quiapo Church, home to the revered Black Nazarene, is the most popular church in the country.

Sanctuario de Santo Cristo

Located in San Juan, this lesser-known colonial church with a convent was built from 1602 to 1604 by the Dominicans.

Both buildings were burned during the Chinese uprising of 1639. A new church was constructed in 1641 but was again set on fire

by July 1763 by the British Forces during their brief 18-month occupation in Manila.

The current church and convent were constructed in 1774 and has been renovated many times during the mid-1900. It’s noted for its historical importance when it was used as a shelter by the Katipuneros during the 1898 Philippine revolution.

St. Pancratius Chapel

St. Pancratius Chapel, better known as Paco Church, might be the smallest church in the list, but it makes up for its size through its history and importance.

This round-shaped chapel stands in the grounds of what used to be a municipal cemetery for the rich Spanish families living in the district of Dilao (Old Manila name for Paco). In 1822, the cemetery was used to entomb victims of a cholera epidemic that swept Manila.

Now empty, the old catacomb is now one of the most favorite wedding venues in the country. The expansive courtyard is circular in shape and lined with an inner and outer circular wall that was hollowed as niches. At the center of the cemetery turned park is a romantic, multi-colored fountain.

Manila Cathedral Photo by Oliver Bayani

The church we see today is the fourth to rise on the site and was rebuilt from World War II ruins. Fortunately, bombs dropped during the war in 1944 spared the octagonal bell tower (a design with Chinese significance) and some parts of the walls of the third cathedral built in 1852. Renovation on the heavily damaged church began in the 1950‘s and was completed only in 1984.

Originally called Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish, it’s now also known as the Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz, named after the first Filipino saint. Lorenzo, a Chinese-Filipino born in 1600, served as a sacristan here in the 1700s before he was executed as a martyr.

Sta. Ana Church

Like Binondo Church, Sta. Ana Church is one of the few churches built outside Intramuros. It was part of the first evangelical mission outside the walled city by the Franciscan Friars in 1578 in hopes of bringing Christianity to more Filipinos.

Quiapo Church Photo by Engr. Sherwin Calalang

The life-sized statue of Jesus Christ, carrying a cross made of black wood ,was first enshrined at the late San Nicolas de Tolentino Church in Intramuros. The Archbishop of Manila later ordered the Augustinian Recollects to transfer the relic to its current residence in 1787.

This relocation is commemorated every January 9 by the Feast of Black Nazarene, widely considered as one of the most spectacular religious events in the country.

Around eight million devotees paid homage to the beloved icon this year, all drawn to its claimed miraculous powers.

The cream-colored building we see today is the third structure built in 1899 and later expanded in 1984. The original church made from nipa and bamboo was burned to the ground in 1639. The second was damaged by the 1863 earthquake. Aside from a house of worship, the church grounds have also become a flourishing center of commerce and arcane novelties like fortune tellers, amulet vendors, and herbalists. u

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ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

Photos courtesy of AngLahi USA (rizalatbp.com and flickr.com/photos/anglahiusa/).

Rizal Atbp:

Exploring a hero’s value to modern-day Fil-Ams

By Mico Letargo

LOS ANGELES – “What good ever came out of the Philippines?”

This is the core question that AngLahi throws out in its staging of the play Rizal Atbp. With shows held in different cities across California, Rizal Atbp. retells the life of Jose Rizal through the eyes of a Filipino-American student. On Saturday, September 8, AngLahi staged the last two performances of Rizal Atbp. at the Valley Performing Arts Center in Northridge, California.

Joey is your average Filipino-American youth: the goofball of the class who likes to play video games and hangout with his buddies. The play focuses on a common attitude among most Fil-

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Am youth, which Joey embodies: he is ashamed of his heritage.

“My parents are Filipino. But me, I’m an American… dude,” says the youngster in the opening scene of the play.

In order to pass his class, Joey must present a report on Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippine national hero. His teacher, intent on changing Joey’s negative attitude towards his Filipino heritage, pairs the boy up with Mary--the charming and diligent new girl from the Philippines.

The clashing personalities of Joey and Mary make for a lively love-hate relationship as the two attempt to rediscover what made Rizal the hero he is acclaimed

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to be. When Joey’s Fil-Am best friend Frank finds out about the former’s efforts to learn about Filipino heritage, a conflict rich with stereotypical quips break loose.

A subtle philosophical discourse

By using Rizal’s life as backdrop, Rizal Atbp. is ingenious in its subtle discourse about the dilemma that Fil-Am youths now face. The play uses comedic skits and elaborate song-and-dance numbers to temporarily distract the audience from the uneasy hardline issues of the plot, while at the same time giving some breathing space for introspective reflection on the thematic concepts.

With an undeniable plausibility, Pi-

noy youth have now grown detached to the patriotic ideals of the motherland.

Though they know about Rizal in Wikipedia-esque fashion, the Fil-Am youth of today cannot even begin to grasp the essence of Rizal’s life. In other words, they know how the man died, but they don’t know what he lived for.

And this is what AngLahi attempts to say, without being rude.

Juxtaposing Rizal’s historic life with Joey’s modern-day encounters, the story highlights the value of education in making a lasting significant impact to society in a Filipino way. In the life of the young Pepe (Rizal’s nickname), Joey learns that education-according to the metaphor of the moth and the candlelight--is a beacon of knowledge that must be sought out and shared to everyone.

With the help of Mary’s diligent guidance, Joey learns that there is more to Rizal than just his novels and his death in Bagumbayan. Rizal, who eschewed a violent revolution, was a man ready to give up everything for the sole purpose of propagating education to the Filipinos as a means of attaining eventual social reform.

In making a significant impact to his era, Rizal drew strength from the sense of indignation he felt against racial injustice in the friar-controlled universities. This racial injustice, according to the narrative, is the very same reason that causes modern Fil-Am youth to feel ashamed of their cultural heritage.

As a further example of an excellent framing device that uses juxtaposition, Fil-Am children (whether intentionally or not) were among the cast in the scenes that depicted historic Philippines in Rizal’s time. Young Pepe, who was tutored by his mother Doña Teodora, was played by Fil-Am kids, Jeremiah Partido and David Paul Sabado. Other Fil-Am children were cast as young students of Dr. Rizal in his Dapitan exile.

The twang in the accent of young Pepe is all but undetectable, betraying to the audience the fact that the child actor grew up in the United States. This faint literary device of a Fil-Am Rizal effec-

tively connotes the importance of educating our Pinoy youth in America.

(Or maybe this writer has been spoiled too much by Christopher Nolan’s work.)

A plot-driven storyline

Not without merit

The narration itself is not without shortcomings though. As a plot-driven storyline, it forgets to build upon the characters’ backgrounds and motivations. The characters’ traits, actions, as well as plot developments, are offered to the audience in a matter-of-fact fashion.

The play progresses without even giving as much of a hint or a peek into a prior

circumstance that might have affected a particular scene in the story.

Consider this: Joey’s arrogance and indifference at the beginning of the story--these motivations would never allow him to even begin studying Filipino history. However, after an argument with the Mary, Joey eventually gives in.

He starts to learn about a culture that he had a burning hatred for, just a few moments past. Did he give in just because of a growing sense of patriotism?

Or did he just do it because he liked the girl? This action, though not entirely implausible, is seen as an out-of-character move from the perspective of the audience, leaving one completely perplexed.

Character motivation and background is partially or totally left out, like in the case of Joey’s smug indifference, Mary’s enthusiastic patriotism, and Frank’s mysterious anger. In the literary world, character-driven storylines draw the most emotion and empathy from the audience.

This one, however, just falls a few steps short of totally pulling the audience into its compelling world of introspection.

This is not to say that the play Rizal Atbp. is not without merit. In fact, this could well be one of the more satisfying productions as of late, in terms of quality of performance, multimedia innovation, and overall cathartic experience.

Joshua de Guzman, playing lead as Jose Rizal, explores a more passionate and angry Rizal that is rarely seen in most portrayals of the hero. He manages to strike a balance between a calm intellectual and a raging social reformist.

Frank (played by the intense David Amansec) portrays a dark and brooding anger that begs the audience to ask and re-ask the play’s thesis statement.

His effective and contagious intensity urges you to re-examine your own Pinoy pride.

Chelsea Bernasconi (who plays the role of Mary) offers an enthusiastic charm that draws you on, to be curiously interested in pursuing the questions raised by the story. Her vulnerable sincerity proves to be her best asset as an actress.

The integration of multimedia material in the production is similarly noteworthy.

Music videos, montages, and even the musical score, all give a new dimension to the whole theatric experience. Though, at some points, the interweaving of the new media may be a little distracting, especially in the song numbers where lyrics and subtitles are flashed onscreen while a singer is performing onstage. But overall, these technical aspects build upon the already engaging theme of the play.

For a Filipino production staged outside the Philippines, Rizal Atbp. proves to be one of the iconic productions that any self-respecting Filipino in America shouldn’t miss. By introducing a new perspective into Rizal’s value to our modern-day heritage, the narrative captures the raw emotions of indifference, bigotry, and shame, and uses those to evoke a cathartic experience that begs an answer to the play’s fundamental questions: “What good ever came out of the Philippines?” u

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INDUSTRY

Duty Free Philippines Inaugurated New Manila Ocean Park Outlet DUTY FREE PHILIPPINES (DFP), in its commitment to be of service to the international travelers market and to Philippine tourism, has opened a duty free store at the Manila Ocean Park, the country’s all season, all-weather holiday destination for locals and tourists.

The Department of Tourism’s attached agencies believes that a duty free store in Manila’s integrated resort facility with marine life attractions will be able to cater to the duty free shopping needs of the Manila Ocean Park’s loyal patrons and visitors who recently travelled abroad.

Duty Free Philippines’ (DFP) retail presence in this fast-rising tourist hub shows its utmost dedication to serve the balikbayans, overseas Filipino workers, regular Filipino travelers, foreign tourists and tour groups. The new outlet was unveiled in simple rites led by no less than Lorenzo C. Formoso, DFP chief operating officer.

To maximize benefits from the opensky policy which opened the country to foreign carriers, DFP resorted to massive store expansion program in anticipation of the influx of arriving tourists. The establishment of new duty free stores in Aklan, Albay, and Palawan are already

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underway, and renovation plans are ongoing for all its other outlets at the

NAIA, Mactan International Airport and Waterfront Hotel Cebu. These new duty free stores’ more attractive and functional retail environment will be instrumental to the achievement of DFP’s goal of contributing to the country’s tourism efforts.

DFP hopes this new outlet will add “more fun” to their stay at the Manila Ocean Park. u

Ribbon cutting: (L – R)Lorenzo C. Formoso - DFP COO, Chudney Ngo - Acting Director of Manila Tourism, Gemma Cruz Araneta - Vice Chairperson-Manila Historical Heritage Commission, Usec. Theresa Martinez - DOT, Van Kam Weng – Ocean Park GM, Atty. Carlos So – NAIA Customs District Collector

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