Bbmag April May 2014

Exploring the Treasures of

pangasinan Reviving Urduja

THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE CAPITAL

the economy

IS PANGASINAN READY FOR TAKEOFF?

bangus

NOT JUST ANOTHER FISH IN THE SEA

agriculture tourism A COMING OF AGE

OUR LADY’S CALL VISITING MANAOG

RIZAL’S ROOTS

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN

GINA DE VENECIA

THE QUINTESSENTIAL FILIPINA

dasoland family adventure park AN UNEXPECTED EDEN

america in our hearts

A LANDMARK BOOK ON IMPORTANT FILIPINOS IN THE UNITED STATES

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Issue Number 36

TRAVEL April and May 2014

Photograph by Thots Urpiana

PANGASINAN

-HIGHLIGHTS-

46 PUERTO GALERA

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54 LEGAZPI, ALBAY

56 misibis bay

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Issue Number 36

FEATURES April and May 2014

36 HISTORY RIZAL’S ROOTS IN LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN 38 ICONS GINA DE VENECIA, THE QUINTESSENTIAL FILIPINA 40 GETAWAYS dasoland family adventure park an unexpected eden 42 BOOKS america in our hearts 66 WINE & DINE sunday brunch at impressions 70 PLACES the perfect marriage

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Inside the Executive Room with

72 RESTAURANTS keeping it simple with chef bruce lim 74 NIGHTLIFE ring in the weekend at hyve 78 MUSIC and ARTS malasimbo festival, a mystical experience in nature

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PUBLISHER & CEO

ROGER L. ORIEL

PRESIDENT & CO-PUBLISHER

CORA M. ORIEL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF VICE PRESIDENT FOR SALES

RAPHAEL JOHN C. ORIEL SHARON ANN BATHAN-SAN PEDRO

VICE PRESIDENT FOR MARKETING AND SPECIAL EVENTS, PHILIPPINES

VINCE F. SAMSON

VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVERTISING

NOEL O. GODINEZ

EDITORIAL CONSULTANT FEATURES EDITORS CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES DIGITAL MEDIA STRATEGIST MULTIMEDIA DEVELOPERS GRAPHIC DESIGNERS ACCOUNTING MANAGERS ADMIN AND ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT CIRCULATION MANAGER

ROD CORNEJO

VOLUME V NO.II

CHRISTINA M. ORIEL, MARY MAY PORTEZ

ON THE COVER LOCATION: HUNDRED ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK ALAMINOS CITY, PANGASINAN

DAN E. NINO, MARIE-ALSIE G. PENARANDA, ALFRED G. GABOT, ARABELA VENTENILLA ARCINUE NOEL TY DING CARREON, JAMES CHRISTER C. FRANCISCO NOEL TY, KIMBERLY T. DELOS SANTOS, KAT DELA CRUZ, MARY PERL ABUCEJO CHRISTINA M. ORIEL DESIDERATA M. PASION TONI ROSE PADUA, JAMES CHRISTER C. FRANCISCO VICTORIA C. FABRO, GEMMA C. FABRO, JOSEPH MARK T. CAMIRING GERALOU SAGUN ARTHUR SIBULANGCAO, ROLANDO MANESE

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KEEPING A JOURNAL ou can take the boy out of Pangasinan, but you can’t take Pangasinan out of the boy.”

We featured Pangasinan four years ago and found it timely to revisit and see how the province has been progressing since.

Governor Espino boldly declared that it is his mission to make Pangasinan number one. Ramping up the province’s competitiveness would first require improving the infrastructure. As you’ll read in the following pages, there are plans for an airport in Lingayen, which will bring the province’s tourism and investment efforts to another level. The Sual International Seaport project is in its first phase; soon, Pangasinan will have the capabilities to export and import products all over the world.

Further, we explore the industries at the core of Pangasinan’s economy, one of which is the bangus trade in Dagupan. Those familiar will tell you that this type of milkfish is unrivaled—possibly even the best in the world.

And of course, we couldn’t miss the most popular tourist spot in the province: Hundred Islands National Park in Alaminos, the star of this issue. Currently, three of the islands are developed for tourism.

It has been 37 years since I left my hometown of Binalonan, Pangasinan.

Back then, the developments we see cropping up in surrounding towns across the province today were unimaginable. This is why we at Balikbayan champion returning home to your roots.

There is nothing like sharing and feeling that nostalgia as you walk down the once-humble streets of your hometown. The heart and essence will still remain, but in a new era, we must keep pushing forward, investing and ensuring that it will be ready for the next generation. roger l. oriel publisher & ceo

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EDITOR’S LETTER arch 2014 marks the 5th anniversary of Balikbayan’s maiden issue as a travel and lifestyle publication. As I scan the magazine covers from the past five years I am struck by the tremendous growth that Balikbayan has seen. But what inspires me most is the story that these covers tell and foretell about the growth of our country and I am reminded, yet again, that a deep love for the Philippines remains at the heart and soul of every page we print.

That love goes beyond the words on the page or the photos that accompany them—it breathes life into our stories, walks our halls, colors our work and transports our readers. Such legends as Manny Pacquiao, to Fernando Amorsolo, to Jose Rizal, countless brilliant business men and women, progressive politicians, and intellectuals have had a direct impact on our work in some way, by either being featured in a story or uplifting our work. These are the faces and people on this side of the magazine, but there are many more individuals on your side. And while you, our readers, may not realize it, you impact our work everyday. You are the Philippines.

I can’t help but think that Balikbayan, in some shape or form has rapidly progressed in a similar fashion to our country’s growth and modernization. In our magazine’s early stages we focused on building a foundation and developing a medium to remind not just those who have left, but also those who aspire to leave the country about all of the wonderful things about the Philippines that bring “Love of Country” back in style. That foundation allowed us to explore new and, therefore less familiar, aspects of our country that foster growth—tourism, real estate opportunities, and investment planning are just a few of these emerging facets of Filipino culture that we are all quickly learning to embrace and love.

In this issue, we take a more focused approach as we explore and hone in on the progress that Pangasinan is making. It is our hope that showcasing Pangasinan as a microcosm of the Philippines’ greater growth will inspire you to also look to your own home province, your own place of origin, as the next bright spot in the Philippines.

I’d like to extend a heartfelt maraming salamat to our loyal readers, supporters, and country for the past five years. Here’s to five hundred more.

raphael john c. oriel editor-in-chief rj.oriel@asianjournalinc.com 12

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COVER STORY I BALIKBAYAN EXPLORER

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Exploring the Treasures of

pangasinan

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MOVING FORWARD Governor Espino’s Continuing Legacies 16

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LINGAYEN AIRPORT

SUAL PORT

Negotiations over the purchase of a 5-hectare adjoining lot have been finalized between the owners of the properties adjacent to the purported location of the said airport in barangay Libsong East. This expansion will extend the runway to around 1’634.02 meters from its existing 1’178.79 meters to accommodate commercial flights.

The provincial government of Pangasinan has made efforts in seeking the opinions of the Civil Aeronotics Board and the Department of Trade and Communications on how to expedite the project. But given that the airport is a property under the direct control and jurisdiction of the National Goverment, it has no choice but to wait for the national government’ action.

The Lingayen airport is deemed to improve tourism, investments, and livelihood opportunities in the region.

32% of the 1st phase of Sual International Seaport project is completed, according to the Philippine Ports Authority Regional Director Silverio Mangaoang. This project is expected to be finished within the next three to four years with a total funding amount of Php500 million: Php200 million from the PPA and DOTC, Php200 million from the provincial government, and Php100 million from the local government of Sual.

The Sual Port will help Pangasinan export its various products and aid in the importation of agricultural products from abroad. It will be manned by the personnel of different agencies like the PPA, Bureau of Customs, Philippines Coast Guards, the Provincial Government, et al..

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COVER STORY I THE ECONOMY

Is PANGASINAN READY for TAKEOFF? Written by Dan E. Nino

n the latter part of the 19th century, Pangasinan’s economic growth took shape when the port of Sual was opened to foreign commerce in 1855 and a Manila-Dagupan railroad was established in 1892, connecting the two cities with 195.4 kilometers of railway.

However, neglect and the onset of several typhoons caused closure of the railway line in the 1970's.

Today, Pangasinan is a three to four hours-drive from Manila, with wide open spaces for development and natural resources. Travel time will be drastically reduced when the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX), an 88.85 kilometer project running across the eastern part of the province is completed in 2015. The verdant mountains and farmlands are a sight to behold when you cruise its well-paved roads and highways.

A Pangasinense businessman with business interests in the Philippines and the US, who has travelled the length and breadth of the Philippines, lamented that compared to other areas like Iloilo, Cebu and Legaspi, Pangasinan lacks high profile infrastructure projects like a domestic airport or transhipment port that would spur economic and business development. It has a Northern Cement manufacturing plant in Sison, but few high-profile infrastructure facilities such as a domestic airport or a transshipment port that would spur business and economic development.

PLANS FOR THE PROVINCE In a recent State of the Province address to local officials, Pangasinan Governor Amado T. Espino Jr. said: “The plan to convert the Sual Port into a containerized sub-port, the expansion of the Lingayen Airport and the long-delayed development of the Lingayen Eco-Tourism Zone are vital initiatives that we must pursue with greater vigor and determination if we want to attract more investments and stimulate more economic and livelihood activities in Pangasinan.”

A new Sual port has actually been in the works since 2010, having encountered budgetary delays and right-of-way issues along the way.

Eddie Ferrer, president of President of Pangasinan Brotherhood USA (PB-USA), an umbrella association of Pangasinan organizations based in Southern California, traces his roots to Pangasinan through his mother's family, the Caguioa and Claveria clans. Ferrer says Sual Port would be an ideal transhipment hub for carriers like Hanjin, NYK, Evergreen, Wan Hai, OOCL, APL, Sealand, Maersk, and K-line, and as a gateway to other ports in Asia. The provision of customs clearance facilities at Sual Port would also help decongest shipping business currently affecting the ports in Manila and Batangas, while containers could be loaded at Sual Port for transhipments to Manila's North and South Harbor and Subic Port via feeder vessels and barges. “This would create more job openings in the field of logistics, transportation, and warehousing in Pangasinan,” Mr. Ferrer pointed out, creating greater incentives to develop local manufacturing

in Pangasinan and neighboring provinces and thus generating savings in the transport of goods.

Moreover, if a container freight station warehouse were set up nearby to consolidate load cargoes with small shipments (less than container loads, or LCLs) into full container loads, this would benefit small and medium manufacturers located in the province and neighboring regions, he added.

Ferrer, who runs his own customs brokerage and freight forwarding as president and CEO in the US—a business he began twenty-nine years ago.

He says ocean carriers docking at Sual Port could sail to ultimate destinations from ports in Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Korea, and the US. “With the Sual Port in full operation, there is a great possibility of creating another export processing zone that can attract investors, who can then establish local factories or transfer other factories from developed countries like China, Japan and South Korea to the Philippines," Ferrer remarks.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Customs, Food and Drug Administration, and the Departments of Health and Trade and Industry could all set up offices near Sual, which would facilitate releases and deliveries to recipient buyers or importers on record, he said.

The time has come to relieve Manila of traffic and port congestion, which is causing heavy economic standstill and loss of revenue. Traffic congestion in Manila is partly being attributed to the movement of container vans and trucks, prompting Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada to implement a truck ban during peak hours to decongest the city.

UPGRADING PANGASINAN'S AIRPORT “This business plan holds true for cargo handling at the Lingayen Domestic Airport as an international air hub, or central point for air cargo movements—not only as an airstrip,” Ferrer also said.

Little has come of the plan for an Alaminos City Domestic Airport which was supposed to rise in this city by the sea, near the world-famous Hundred Islands, a plan that figured prominently during the term of then Mayor Hernani Braganza with the full support of then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

Pangasinan would have difficulty thriving without these facilities where goods are moved.

Are lack of government and private funds, lack of political will, legislative gridlock, too much bureaucracy, unfeasible and too much politics the culprit? As Pangasinan Administrator Raffy Baraan put it in a fit of frustration, as he spoke to a gathering of Pangasinenses in Los Angeles: “To some degree, if there’s no politics, it would be better to facilitate a project to its successful end result.”

“The[se] projects will take a little time, but now is the best time to start these high profile economic infrastructures to catapult Pangasinan as the next economic powerhouse in the country,” Mr. Ferrer emphasized.

(Right) Photograph by Noel Ty 18

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SUPPORT FROM THE US PB-USA has thrown in its full support by rolling out a number of activities encouraging direct investment. A trade seminar was held in January 2013 at the Marriott Hotel in Long Beach, California, for 160 participants, who received lectures on topics like import-export, letters of credit, business licenses and permits, financing, shipping, customs, and logistics. Philippine consul general in Los Angeles Hellen Barber-Dela Vega, whose husband Bing Dela Vega is from San Carlos City and a former president of PB-USA, was a keynote speaker at the event, which also featured Philippine products and handicrafts. This seminar had a follow-up event last September in Dagupan City, where Ferrer led a seven-man delegation on a fact-finding trade mission to meet fifty local suppliers with export-ready products.

Ferrer, who vows to follow through for “fire and effect", is now setting up a Pangasinan Brotherhood-USA partnership with the FilipinoAmerican Chamber of Commerce of South East Los Angeles (FACC-SEC) based in Cerritos, California and led by a Dagupeno, Felix B. Lopez.

Together, they will execute another event, billed the "Diversity and Trade Expo", on Oct. 4, 2014 in Artesia, California. At this expo, Pangasinan and other Philippine-based business owners and manufacturers are expected to bring along Philippine-made goods and products for US buyers and wholesalers to view.

Gov. Espino commended the effort of fellow Pangasinenses at PB-USA and other Fil-Am organizations based in southern California. He said, “It is very heartwarming that Pangasinan Brotherhood-USA has gone bullish in its advocacy to help and promote Pangasinan-made products in the US and elsewhere in the world market.

PB-USA [has] excelled along this path driving in high gear on pro-poor programs that are akin to the priority development agenda of my administration. Thank you for your unwavering support, especially to realize our goal to make Pangasinan number one.”

ABOUT PANGASINAN The crescent-shaped province of Pangasinan is one of four provinces in the Ilocos Region (Region I). It is the third largest province in the Philippines, with 44 towns and 4 cities covering a total area of 5,368.82 sqm and a population of 2,779,862 (NSO Census, 2010).

The province's name means "the place where salt is made"; this name originates from the rich and fine salt beds found in the coastal towns along the province's western coastline, which were a key source of livelihood for its inhabitants. The province was also known by an ancient name: Layug na Caboloan, after a native species of bamboo called bolo that grew abundantly in the inland plains.

Pangasinan is blessed with marine and aquaculture products due to its long coastline and communal rivers, most notably the Agno River.

Aside from salt-based products, Pangasinan is endowed with natural resources such as limestone, copper ore, chromite and manganese, while furniture and handicrafts provide other sources of livelihood. It is also the third largest producer of rice after neighboring Nueva Ecija and Isabela in the Cordilleras.

Dagupan, the province's oldest city, is considered a commercial and education center in northern Luzon and is home to a flourishing bangus (or milkfish) industry. San Carlos, its other major city, was originally named Binalotongan and founded in 1572; it was renamed San Carlos

fifty-one years later, after a revolt crushed by the Spanish conquistadores, in honor of Spain’s reigning monarch Carlos III. Although formally named a province in 1850

by Spanish Governor General Ronquillo de Penalosa, historians say Pangasinan may have received provincial status as early as 1611, while other sources say Pangasinan was organized as a political unit on April 5, 1580, with April 5 still recognized as its official founding day.

In earlier times, the province included considerable portions of Tarlac, as far down south as Paniqui and Camiling, and as far west as the Zambales mountains, while going north it stretched up to the northern part of La Union up to Santo Tomas, Bacnotan, and Agoo. Civil government was established in the province under the American regime in 1901 with Perfecto Sison as its first governor.

Former president Fidel V. Ramos, native of Pangasinan, says the province is now more notable for its three “Bs”: Bagoong, Bangus and Bucayo.

Images courtesy of PangasinanBrotherhoodUSA.org 20

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PRINT. ONLINE. MOBILE

BUILDING BRIDGES FOR FILIPINO AROUND THE WORLD. LOS ANGELES. ORANGE COUNTRY & THE INLAND EMPIRE. NORTHERN CALIFORNIA. LAS VEGAS. NEW YORK & NEW JERSEY. THE PHILIPPINES.

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COVER STORY I THE CAPITOL

Reviving Urduja LIKE ITS ALLEGED HEROINE, PANGASINAN IS DISROBING ITS OLD, UNAVAILING GARBS TO PREPARE FOR ITS BIGGEST TRANSFORMATION, YET Written by Mary May Portez / Photographs Courtesy of the Pangasinan Information Office

ear 1400: It was believed that during this time, the legendary Princess Urduja ruled the Kingdom of Tawalisi in Pangasinan. Tales have been passed down narrating her glorious conquests and unmatched mastery in the art of combat. Often portrayed as a beautiful, partly unclad maiden holding weapons of war, Urduja is a person of great courage and headstrong will. And despite the ongoing discourse over her existence and origin, the Pangasinan people remain resolute of the Princess’ legacy, making her the quintessence of their town’s transformation.

Much like Urduja getting ready for battle, Pangasinan is breaking down its old walls and discouraging stereotypes to brace the imminent metamorphosis, the town has been, for many years, yearning to experience.

THE BEST PLACE TO INVEST, WORK, LIVE, AND RAISE A FAMILY It’s a bold statement. Seven years ago, this vision might have sounded too ambitious given the diffident state of the old Capitol, but the Pangasinan now is far from the Pangasinan then. The current splendor of the new Capitol in Lingayen serves not just a vision of excellence but a solid foundation of the many accomplishments the town have amassed during the last seven years.

Governor Amado T. Espino, Jr.. It is not without reverence that this name is spoken by the people who have been witnesses to this man’s hard work and commitment in making Pangasinan as a place fitting its vision. In his speech years ago, he boldly pledged to make Pangasinan number one. Truth be told, many were skeptics. People have heard numerous promises of the same sort, and have been accustomed to indifference when such promises were not met.

But seeing the stature of Pangasinan now, it’s almost impossible that such skepticisms were ever entertained.

Grand. It is, perhaps, the best word to describe the Capitol. Past the long, recumbent greenery of Gov. Aguedo F. Agbayani Park, is the impressive Capitol building. Its edifice of pale yellow walls complemented with white

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pillars and high windows, is reminiscent of the White House. Its interiors of polished wood and old world vibe, and the resonating murmurs in local tongue, are the only pull hauling you from the previous comparison.

The design and construction of the Capitol building, including the surrounding structures were all personally attended by Gov. Espino. From the choice of material and placement of furnitures, Gov. Espino made sure that everything is at its rightful place conforming its purpose. Minor details like the choice of glass walls in the offices located at the ground floor appear to be mere effort of design, but it serves a far better purpose: these glass walls offer a more congenial impression due to its transparency. Without the opaque walls, transactions and everything that’s happening inside the office are more accessible.

Urduja House—Although accommodations at this beautiful mansion can be strictly exclusive, curious onlookers can take a tour inside the property.

Dubbed as the Governor’s “official residence,” this building is one of the many revamped facilities in the Capitol grounds. The usual dark wood doors play homage to the “Oriental Mediterranean” motif observed in most of the reconstructed facilities. One of the highlights, upon entering this house, apart from its intricate wooden artistry, is the original 1953 painting of Urduja by the internationally-acclaimed Filipino painter Antonio Gonzales Dumlao.

The Sison Auditorium is also a distant image from its previous state before it was reconstructed. Its tattered walls are now replaced with auburn wood panels. The rough, uneven flooring are pulled out and now relieved with a smooth and polished wood of varying patterns. It now sports a stateof-the-art sound system.

The National Artist Awardee, Salvador F. Bernal have chosen the Sison Auditorium to exhibit some of his famous works. His show entitled, “Badong” is a showcase that aims to introduce and explain the art of theater design. From the 26th of February until the 3rd of May 2014, this exhibit is expected to inspire and bring pride to Filipino creativity.

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INVEST Last March 14, 2014, the Capitol’s Social Hall was thronged with a gathering of Cebuanos and Pangasinenses. Led by Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III and Pangasinan Governor Amado T. Espino, Jr. Provincial officials, media people, and dignified guests played witness to the signing of a twining agreement between the two provinces.

“It was indeed inspiring to learn from them, as it was heartwarming for us to know that they[,] too, are looking at Cebu as their model in promoting investments and tourism,” says Davide.

Through this agreement, both provinces can foster mutual understanding to promote and develop projects in the areas of trade and investments, tourism, arts, education, health, and disaster preparedness.

Another milestone for the province is the ISO certification awarded last March 17, 2014. The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 9001:2008 is a certification given to organizations and cooperations, private and public, which upon audit and verifications, confirm the requirements or standards of the Quality Management System.

Through CIPI’s (Certification International Philippines Inc.), an ISOaccredited certifying body, Managing Director Renato Navarrete, the administrative and support service departments, together with the PHO (Provincial Health Office) were presented separate awards for “its ability to consistently provide product[s] that [meet] customer and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.”

Its tourism rate have also gone up from 55’500 in 2007 to 742’445 last year, proving that the local government’s efforts in promoting its tourism are all but successful. Tourists, and anyone needing travel assistance can inquire and reserve any of the six (6) tourist buses and one (1) coaster lend by the provincial government, provided that lenders bear the gas expenses.

Aside from the growing popularity of the Hundred Islands, Bangus Festival, and Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Manaoag—to name a few—a more accessible place of respite nestled in the Capitol grounds in Lingayen is the ongoing restoration of its nearby beachfront. Here, people will have

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free access to the cottages, shower stalls, and the long beach coastline.

Further this effort, the government is also looking at the future establishment of a Provincial Museum that will house several pieces of historical relics.

WORK Since 2007, salaries have been raised six times. The unemployment rate went down from 8.6% in 2010 to 7.6% in 2013. Pangasinan is the only province in the whole country whose employees have a Healthy Habits Club, and enjoy the benefits of a wellness program especially designed for them. They are entitled to a free, annual executive checkup in all fourteen (14) accredited hospitals.

Because of the newly improved conditions of the offices, employees have better access to clean and functional facilities. With these improvement, public information and overall operation is made a lot more easier.

On a global perspective, the provincial government is looking at a project to aid workers on training and consultation. The Bantay-Barangay, TulongHanapbuhay is a special project designed to register, organize, and mobilize overseas Filipino workers to fight illegal recruitment and human trafficking.

Through this program, they will undergo skills and livelihood trainings, while educating their families to engage in suitable business and livelihood activities.

The Department of Foreign Affairs will also be opening its first provincial satellite office in a space provided by Robinson’s Mall in Calasiao. This progress will greatly benefit the people of Pangasinan,who need not travel to San Fernando, La Union or Manila to secure or renew their passports, or to process other DFA-related transactions.

LIVE From July 2007 to December 2013, Pangasinan has spent a total of Php3.31 billion building and upgrading provincial buildings, facilities, support infrastructures, hospitals, roads, bridges, potable water systems and

irrigation facilities. Hospitals and other public health facilities were also upgraded, together with the construction of Neo-natal and maternal care units, and TBlinic buildings in all its hospitals.

Pangasinan has truly proven to be one of the best place to live and raise a family. In fact, in terms of health concerns, 228â&#x20AC;&#x2122;032 indigent families have been enrolled in Philhealth in 2012. This benefit entitles them to free medical consultation and hospitalization in all fourteen (14) accredited hospitals in the province. And with the recent ISO certification awarded to the Provincial Health Office, the people are guaranteed quality and effective medical services.

Pangasinan is also the only local government in the whole country that operates its own 14-station dialysis center.

The provincial government has also spent a total of Php281.065 million building and reconstructing school buildings and other school facilities. Gov. Espino has made it a priority to help raise future leaders through quality education and training.

A LOOK AT THE PAST

TO BE NUMBER 1 Displayed on several corners of the Capitol is a sundry of awards and plaques of recognitions. It is almost daunting to cite all of them in this article as they are too numerous to quote. But perhaps the most eminent of them all is the one exhibited on the foyer of the Capitol building. There, close to the winding wooden staircase is the prestigious Gawad Pamana ng Lahi award.

Last October 31, 2012, Pangasinan was given the mother of all governance awards: it was hailed as the Gawad Pamana ng Lahi Region I Champion.

This award says it all. With this recognition, Pangasinan can presumably say that it has gone full circle through its metamorphosis. This honor is the fitting cap to the hardships and consistent dedication of the Pangasinan community in reviving its former glory and its commitment in being number one. And just like its heroine, Urduja, it can face any battle head on with courage and pride.

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The Sison Auditorium, Lingayen, Pangasinan

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91&3,.

Not just another f ish in the Sea Writer Mary May Portez Photographer Noel Ty

Dagupan, Pangasinan—At first light, the local markets are already buzzing with people haggling with vendors over the day’s best produce.

Pangasinenses, tourists, and others from neighboring communities gather to acquire, perhaps the best bangus (milkfish) in the country—if not the world. But what sets Dagupan bangus from any other bangus in the country, apart from its taste, really, is its impressive transformation over the years, and the people who continuously work on its development. Balikbayan takes you to an in-depth journey from the humble beginnings to the global prospectives of the best-loved and sought-after, Dagupan bangus.

BFAR-NIFTDC Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-National Integrated Fisheries Technology Development Center Walking inside the office of BFAR-NIFTDC’s Agricultural Center Chief IV, Westly Rosario is almost an intimidating experience. Hung on its walls are diplomas and several plaques of recognition he have gained in the past decades. Truly, this man is in the right place, one would think, if not, with the most credibility. Dr. Rosario, or Sir Westly, as referred to by his staff, has always been a resolute character. His involvement in the BFAR—nay, the industry of fishery, in general—was not an inceptive initiative.

“My first choice was Architecture. Or Fine Arts.,” recalls Dr. Rosario during his discerning years post High School. There wasn’t much of an interest in agriculture and fishery that coerced him to make a career out these fields.

Despite his early exposure to the said industries, Dr. Rosario opt to explore possibilities, elsewhere. His father was a former Regional Director of the BFAR in Region I and as expected, his father was banking on him following his legacy. Yet in spite of Dr. Rosario’s indecisions, he ended up doing just that, to which the department will always will be beholden.

The BFAR-NIFTDC in Dagupan, Pangasinan has come a long way from its initial three (3) hectares of land. Dr. Rosario looks back to that very first day he reported for office back in 1997. “This will do,” was his conclusive sentiment. People were only working with the talaba (oyster) culture and there was not a single fishpond in sight. For a while, Dr. Rosario pondered over the possibilities of improvement, and slowly, he brought different species of freshwater fish, exposing his people to other alternatives.

Seventeen years since then, the agency has transformed, expanding its area and adapting to the fast-growing technology of today.

At present, the BFAR-NIFTDC has 7 concrete hatcheries of different fish species. Last July 2007, it opened its first Asian Fisheries Academy. This establishment was funded through the Php30 million Countrywide Development Fund of former Speaker, Jose de Venecia, Jr., the chief benefactor of the project, together with a Php15 million grant from the government of Japan for the furnishings of the academy. Dr. Rosario is keen that this

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Academy will help promote the Philippines as the center of fisheries and aquaculture technologies in Asia and the world, as this will train Filipinos as fishery technicians.

With the rising demand for Dagupan bangus, and the considerable potential of the fishing industry realized, globally, a processing plant was established. The Korea-Philippines Seafood Processing Complex, designed to meet international standards, is a $2.2 million project donated by the government of Korea. Some of the personalities who graced its inauguration on the 29th of November 2010 were Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala, Korean Embassy Minister Kim Yong Ho, Korean International Cooperating Agency (KOICA) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) former Director Malcolm I. Sarmiento, Jr., Pangasinan 4th District Representative Hon. Georgina P. De Venecia, BFAR-NIFTDC Center Chief IV Dr. Westly Rosario, and former Speaker Jose C. de Venecia, Jr..

This facility has the capacity to quick-freeze four tons of fish daily. It also boasts an assembly of highly-trained staff using state-of-the-art facilities from deboning fish to packaging and distribution. This complex has made it possible to supply both local and international markets.

On a lighter side, nestled in the BFAR-NIFTDC is the famous Fish Cemetery. This 12-year old burial ground is the brainchild of Dr. Rosario.

What initially began as a resting ground for the giant sperm whale found in Malabon grew into an actual cemetery giving shelter to several aquatic creatures like giant sea turtles and other sea mammals. The sperm whale, which was later named, Moby Dick, weighed about 1.2 tons. It took a long trailer truck to transport Moby Dick, and a crane to move its carcass from the truck to its current resting place in the cemetery.

This graveyard serves more than an eccentric attraction. Dr. Rosario explains that this cemetery serves as a physical record of the creatures buried beneath it: its species, weight, measurements, origin, and cause of death. Through this documentation, future studies will be a lot more easier.

But more than anything, its an effective reminder of the welfare of all aquatic creatures: that they, too, deserve care and equal rights.

THE BANGUS OUT OF THE WATER On a bright, sunlit morning, perhaps one of the most breathtaking sights in Dagupan are its fish pens. Both humble and vast, these ubiquitous visions are what make the town fascinating. Not just a means of living, but as a way of life, the fishing industry in Dagupan is an ideal reflection of the town’s character and economic progress. The bangus has long been a household name for the locals, but for the unfamiliar, distinguishing it can be a daunting task.

Determining a Dagupan bangus can be a tricky business. Dr. Rosario shares that when buying one, there are four things to look for: one, that its size is never too big; two, its scales are small and even; three, its head is relatively small for its body; and last, that its lower tail is smaller than the other. The reason behind the latter, Dr. Rosario explains, is due to its eating behavior. Unlike other milkfish which feeds on Microcystis spp like in Laguna de Bay and filamentous algae eaten by bangus elsewhere in the Philippines, the Dagupan or Bonuan bangus feeds mainly on lablab. Lablab is a first class natural food that grows attached at the bottom of the pond similar to carpet. Bangus cannot feed on lablab unless it makes it suspended at the water column. The bangus swims through the very soft lablab using its tail to break it and make it suspended so the fish can feast on them. The result is a shorter lower tail.

The Dagupan bangus has travelled oceans away—metaphorically, that is — from its home in Pangasinan. With the help of the new processing plant, it is now possible to ship the bangus to other countries, efficiently. To promote it locally, the local government has implemented a three-day policy on its major markets where only Dagupan bangus will be sold. The BFAR is also considering a more enduring stratagem of branding (meaning to put

tags or labels on the tail of each fish) the Dagupan bangus. A festival was also conceptualized to encourage people to experience, or rather taste, the famous bangus. Conceptualized by former mayor Benjamin S. Lim, the Bangus Festival was said to boost local tourism and mark Dagupan as “The Bangus Capital of the World.” It was initially a segment of the Pista’y Dayat Thanksgiving festival in 2002 until they have decided to make it a separate event. It is marked by the lighting-up of around one thousand (1’000) barbecue grills that stretches to about 2km.

This event has won the title of “Longest Barbecue” in the Guinness Book of World Records last 2003.

A new event, Bangusine, is also set to showcase different ways on how to cook bangus. The Bangus International Cuisine Cooking Showdown, or Bangusine, will be participated by different schools, restaurants, international students and foreign communities in the city. Atty, Gonzalo Duque, its event chairperson, has invited local dignitaries, celebrities, and foreign ambassadors to introduce bangus as a formidable delicacy. Scheduled on the 28th of April, this event will be one of the highlights of this year’s Bangus Festival.

The bangus industry continues to grow overtime. Products are unceasingly developed to explore other ways in marketing this produce. More and more people are looking at the bangus industry as a thriving business offering a considerable potential for a great investment. And the people at BFARNIFTDC are always eager to set this goal in motion. A solid manifestation of this vision is Dr. Rosario’s aphorism, which he quotes from the words of former Speaker Jose C. de Venecia, Jr.: “Kahit na ano’ng sipag mo; kahit gaano ka man kagaling magtayo ng buildings; walang kuwenta lahat ‘yan kung at the end of the day, wala kang na-develop na sampung (10) katulad mo.”

Simply, that a person’s talents and skills are not the only determinant of success, as the best form of achievement is the person’s ability to progress human infrastructure.

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Agriculture Tourism’s Coming of Age FILIPINO GROUP READIES ITS FARMS FOR BALIKBAYANS, RETIREES, AND YOUNG FIL-AMS UNDER US UNIVERSITIES' HERITAGE PROGRAM REQUIRING IMMERSION TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THEIR PARENTS' ROOTS

Written by Alfred G. Gabot or years, Israel had been showing off to the world their kibutz ippine communities in the coming months and years, is Dr. Eulalio Lorenzo, and their early successes in cooperative work and farming. Barren president and chief executive of the EDL Group of Conpanies, a conglomerate deserts once hostile to plants and animals were painstakingly turned involved in the marketing and distribution of veterinary products, production of into oasis of life with the help of the country's scientists, agronomists animal vaccines, animal breeding, dairy production, organic food growing and and experts. And because Israel has meagre supply of water to sustain multi-media. its farms all throughout the year, they had to resort to rainwater harvesting and "Ayong," as he is fondly called by colleagues and friends, is opening initially his perfected desalination of the sea water for potable use, agriculture and pioneering two farms for the trek of balikbayans and retirees who want to pick up some ideas aqua farms and soilless gardening and farming or hydroponics. or make them a model in their planned farm enterprise or agriculture venture, With deserts abloom and desertification effectively countered and water supply and the young immersionists. One farm is nestled at the foot of the Sierra Madre guarranted, Israelis still have to conserve and ensure efficient use of water for the mountain in San Mateo, Rizal but is only a few minutes away from Quezon City long term. Thus, they came out with drip watering through tubes spread all over the and Metro Manila. The other is in another ideal location for balikbayan, tourfarms operated initially manually. Later, they went scientific, adding fertilizer to the ists, students and future farmers—the plains of historic Capas, Tarlac, the endwater drips, popularizing what is now known as fertigation where only the right drips point of the Bataan Death March, home of centuries-old church and pilgrimage of water combined with fertilizer are fed to the plants with the use of computers. destination at Camp O'Donnell built by the Augustinians in 1772, and a With the scientific breakthroughs, Israel's once unusable deserts are neighbour to Concepcion, the hometown of prominent Filipinos like the late Sen. productive plantations of bananas, vegetables and other crops needed to feed its Benigno S. Aquino Jr. and his son, the sitting President, Benigno S. Aquino III. growing population with the excess for export to neighboring countries. Israel, Capas is less than two hours away from Manila via expressways. whose many agriculturists studied in the Philippines, has also emerged as one of Dr. Lorenzo's San Mateo farm is unique in many ways. It is a botanical garden the world's top sources of cut flowers to Europe, for a time eclipsing even Holland. of sorts with a variety of bamboo, fruit trees and plants and a mini-zoo and aviary.

The farms, the flower gardens and the aquaponics easily are showcased as model Under its verdant foliage are native pigs, hundreds of native chickens and roosters, in agriculture tourism, complementing its historicity and religious icons which are turkeys and fighting breeder cocks. It's recent addition is an aviary of colourful the obsession of Christian and non-Christian pilgrims from all over the world. birds, some extinct which Lorenzo wants to multiply. The farm also has trainer During the Asian meltdown in the '80s and '90s, the number of tourists dogs and crocodiles in secure pens and ponds. The canines are for security authoriplummeted sharply for several months in Hawaii. Airplanes were landing and ties while the crocs' skin are for exports to known makers of shoes, bags and other cruise ships were making port calls allright but with fewer and fewer passengers. leather goods. An avid cock breeder, Lorenzo has also built in the farm a training Hawaii scampered for all possible solutions considering that tourism is its school for cockfighting, cock breeding and the like. Since the farm is besides number one industry and the lifeblood of the state economy. Taking the cue from Lorenzo's residence, it's swimming pool and events area are open for overnight Israel, the Aloha state opened up its historic pineapple and sugar plantations reunions, trainings and other groups. A restaurant and promenade in the farm is which had been nurtured for centuries by immigrant workers mostly from Japan, under finishing touches. Other attractions like a cockfighting and animal museum China and the Philippines who now make up the state population, for tours and are in the works. events. Trips to where majestic flowers and plants abound, unique birds flutter Lorenzo's farm in Capas, Tarlac has vast potentials because of its location in a their wings and sing their songs, among others, were scheduled for discovery and town which is part of history involving allies and adversaries in the last war, the exploration. More tours and events were held in the forests and hills, including the Filipinos, Americans and the Japanese. Earlier, in the 18th century, the Augustinperipheries of its underwater volcanoes. In time, Hawaii attracted more visitors ians and the Spanish colonizers put up in the town one of the oldest churches in from other states and tourists from other countries, bolstering its position as an the country which up to today attracts thousands of devotees and pilgrims. And enchanting tropical paradise. the Capas farm is bigger than the San Mateo farm. It consists of approximately 20 Filipinos are learning much from the experiences of Israel and Hawaii because hectares, some of which gated, which features rice and vegetable fields and areas they have many things in common. Unknown to many, Israelis learned their basic to raise imported cows, goats, sheeps and other livestock. The Capas farm also has agriculture from the University of the Philippines in Los Banos and other schools a swimming pool and besides it is a fish pond for tilapia and other species where and farms and Israelis and Filipinos are bound by common religiosity. Today, Filitourists can catch what they intend to cook and eat while swimming or resting in pinos make up one of the biggest ethnic population in Hawaii, many of whom the farm. A stone's throw from the swimming pool and fish pond are nipa huts and are descendants of thousands of Filipino sacadas who nurtured its plantations for a 16-room hotel which is expected to open this year for those who want to stay over a century. For one, the Filipinos have set their eyes on the big potential of longer in the farm. Two recent visitors, Jeff Underwood of London, Great Britain agriculture or agri tourism considering that the country has a long list of and Fernan Mora of Melbourne, Australia, were impressed with the farm resort attractions, flora and fauna, rice farms and terraces included, to offer. Also, with after a short tour as they rested under mango tree blooming with flowers besides the growing successes of Filipinos world wide, more people with Filipino blood the hotel. There are also some fruit-bearing and ornamental trees in the area but from around the globe, especially those in the United States and Canada, are more are to be planted. Lorenzo has pioneered in Peking duck raising in the farm getting more conscious of their Filipino heritage and would want to learn more where he has now hundreds of ducks. He has a dressing and processing plant about the country and the Filipino culture. Big American universities like the inside so he can cope with meat production and expected local orders and export University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA), San Francisco State Univer- eventually. The farm is also shaping up as a demonstration and training ground for sity, UC Berkeley and University of Washington have opened up undergraduate innovative rice production, organic or natural farming and all that will enhance and graduate programs for this that requires the young participants to immerse production and efficiency. Farm resorts for learning, leisure, health, tourism and themselves for months with the people in communities in the Philippines, better living - that is the legacy which Dr. Eulalio "Ayong" Lorenzo is buildespecially in the countryside, to learn their language and ways. ing for Filipinos in the Philippines and the world over. With the farm resorts as One prominent Filipino leader, anticipating a deluge of young Filipinos and magnets for tourists, Lorenzo will have a big contribution to the growth of Philippine Filipino Americans from North America wanting to immerse themselves in Philtourism and the appreciation of Filipino culture.

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Our Lady’s Call Written by Mary May Portez Photographed by Noel Ty

t was a distinct sense of quietude melded with unfeigned reverence that welcomed us as we reach the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag in Pangasinan. The meek footsteps of devotees as they make their way along the candle area to offer silent prayers and personal intentions displayed an intimate introduction to the parish’s charm and its acclaimed miracles. Each candle propped upon ascending rows of iron bars that incurvate the towering image of the Blessed Mother at the back of the church was a symbol of hope and good faith.

Past the candle area, we made our way to meet up with Fr. Allan. Fr. Allan V. Lopez, OP was a seminarist at the Santo Domingo Parish in Quezon City. He studied Sacred Theology in the University of Santo Tomas. And last year, during the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker on the 1st of May, he was officially installed as the new parish priest by Archbishop Socrates Villegas of the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan with Prior Provincial Fr. Gerard Francisco Timoner III, OP. Dominican priests and brothers as well as several parishioners from different communities gathered Manaoag to witness the event.

Fr. Allan is a vision of graciousness.

He welcomed us with a warm, encouraging smile and despite his rather busy schedule, he took time and personally walked us through the baroque structure recounting the church’s history and some of the most inspirational stories of faith that have served as pillars for the parish throughout the years.

THE PAST REVISITED Settled on hilly grounds, the pilgrim center of Manaoag began as a mission center accepted in the Augustinian Provincial Chapter in the 1600’s. It was dedicated to Saint Monica, the mother of Saint Augustine. Five years after, it was turned over to the care of the Dominicans, who, in the following year, entrusted it to Fr. Juan de San Jacinto, the parish priest of Mangaldan.

The community of Santa Monica, then, was recurrently invaded by nearby hill tribes. Given its geographical disadvantage, defending itself from attacks often pose as a difficult challenge. As a solution, Fr. San Jacinto relocated the community to Manaoag, one of the two towns with the most elevated terrain of all the Dominican towns in Pangasinan, and built a new church, changing the patronage under Saint Monica to Our Lady of

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the Rosary. Legend has it that a passing farmer heard a call from this hill and saw, perched on a low tree, the image of the Blessed Mother cradling the Infant Jesus. The name Manaoag was originally derived from the Pangasinan word taoag, which means “to call.”

In 1701, Captain Gaspar de Gamboa, a Spaniard and tertiary Dominican, and his wife Agata Yangta subsidized the construction of a more sturdy church of brick and stone. The completed structure, together with a belfry, convento, and a chapel called humilladero were officially donated on June 8, 1722.

Throughout the years, the church has faced numerous adversities. An earthquake in 1880 cracked the bell tower, damaging it beyond repair that it had to be completely taken down. May 1898, revolutionaries stormed the town, burning churches and destroying three centuries of accumulated gifts and liturgical objects. When the turmoil abated, Fr. Jose Puente returned and found the image of the Virgin dumped into the nearby ravine. It had to seek temporary refuge in Dagupan, leaving her home for the first time. October of the same year, it was returned to Manaoag.

The administration of the parish was officially turned over by the diocese to the Dominicans in 1912. Concrete stairways that lead to the camarin de la Virgen (dressing room of the Virgin) were added to allow devotees to go directly to the camarin without disturbing the services in the church.

In 1947, Fr. Teodulo Cajical, OP opened the Academia del Santo Rosario, now known as Holy Rosary Academy. It was run by Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception until 1969. At present, the institution is managed by the Missioneras of St. Dominic.

STORIES OF FAITH The church’s interior is a spectacular sight. On its major walls hung massive murals of the local artist, Francisco C. Zarate. Each, depicting stories of miracles and significant events the church has experienced throughout history.

One such mural shows a painting of a mother lifting her child to the image of the Blessed Mother.

As the story goes, in 1627, a couple from Binmaley brought their lifeless child to Manaoag in hopes of a miracle. And their efforts were not in vain as the dead child was brought back to life at the feet of Our Lady’s image.

Another mural on the opposing side shows a much forcer representation. It was that of the fire that took place on the Easter of 1697. It was said that Fr. Diego Ballesteros, who was parish priest of that time, hastily carried the image of Our Lady and pledged that if the fire is not put out, he would throw the image to the blazing fire, together with himself. The flames in the sacristy were miracu-

lously extinguished. When it was time to return the image, it surprisingly felt heavier and Fr. Ballesteros found himself unable to return it to its pedestal.

It took several others to carry the image back to the altar. The parish priest would decide later on to build a new church across the river in fear of another fire. But on the day of its inauguration, not a single wooden pillar was found to be standing.

On a more recent note, Fr. Allan shares that the faith of the people has grown rather subjective over the years.

“We receive several students praying to pass board exams, bars, etc.,” muses Fr. Allan. He mentions that these people even bring personal things like pencils, application forms, and even uniforms to have them blessed. As peculiar as it sounds, Fr. Allan says that one should respect other people’s expressions of faith.

The church respects and appreciates the veneration of all its children. In fact, all the prayers and petitions received by the church are singularly read at the seminary.

Fr. Allan recalls one of his more personal story of faith about a friend. This friend was an Indian national living in Malaysia. He married a Filipina and has been coming to Manaoag every month.

On his recent visit, he shares his joy over his thriving business in Malaysia. The Blessed Mother has answered his prayer and as gratitude, he plans to set up a restaurant in Dagupan. This account tells us that people from different faiths all come to Manaoag in genuine belief that Our Lady will hear and answer our prayers.

THE MANAOAG OF TODAY WATER FOUNTAIN The Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag has transformed exceptionally over the years. One of its latest addition is the construction of a water fountain on the forefront of the church.

Water holes laid out in circular form to the ground will spurt water in varying pressure and direction.

This is deemed to add character to the already charismatic church. Its blessing and inauguration is scheduled on the 15th of March 2014. Some of the personalities expected to grace this events are Manaoag’s Vice Mayor, Lito Arenas, Mayor Kim Mikael Amador, and Congresswoman Gina de Venecia.

VENERATION Situated exactly at the back of the altar is a small chapel where people can pray and touch the robe of the Blessed Mother. Reminiscent of Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto in Bulacan, this is, perhaps, the most famous part of the church where pilgrims can reflect and ask Our Lady for guidance and blessings.

MUSEO DE NUESTRA SEÑORA DE MANAOAG Located at the back of the church is a Museum that houses religious artifacts and memorabilia the church has accumulated throughout the years.

Displayed inside antique armoires are palmatoria (candle holder) dating from the 1800‘s, wood and ivory heads of Our Lady’s image, pieces of jewelry and perfumes, and baro (clothes) used by

the Blessed Mother. These elaborate gowns, Fr. Allan says, are usually donated by local designers and artisans. There’s also a special corner where several letters from simple notes of gratitude to pleas for personal contentment addressed to the Blessed Mother are exhibited.

A trip to this museum is much like walking through centuries of history.

ROSARY SHRINE This part of the church is what others may refer to as “the park.” The Rosary Shire, Fr. Allan tells us, is a sanctuary for meditation and prayer. Its landscape is of rich greenery. Lofty trees guide you as you walk along the brick pathway. A bridge, located at the heart of it, looks over a small pond where a school of koi in different colors gyrate toward the direction of tossed coins and food.

CANDLE AREA One of the most frequented section of the church is the candle area. Candles, purchased on the side shop, are lit with silent prayer upon rows of ascending steel bars. At its center stands a towering image of the Blessed Mother cradling the Infant Jesus. Set on its fore and rear are ellipse-shaped baths illuminated by floating candles.

RELIGIOUS STORE Aside from an a sundry of shops lined on both sides of the church’s entryway, the church also has a couple of stalls inside its premises where people can purchase rosaries, booklets, T-shits, etc.. These products are locally made and produced from local materials.

Fr. Allan shares that Manaoag has been attracting pilgrims since the church started about four centuries ago. People say that in the 1950’s, kalesas would crowd the exterior of the church during fiestas and lent, much like how it is flocked with shuttles and private vehicles at current time. At present, the church has thirteen full time catechists doing 1st communions and recollections. It teaches fifteen public elementary schools, three public high schools, and five private schools around the parish.

And in terms of modernization, the church is not far behind with technology. It has been an image of order as observed in its systematic ways to control the crowd: like the placement of steel bars at the entrance of the Veneration to help people stay in line and to avoid any form of disarray. The lift that heaves the image of the Blessed Mother from its pedestal to the camarin has long been mechanical.

It has also embraced modern security. Installed in several areas across the entire lot, are CCTV cameras to monitor the safety of the devotees.

The Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag has come a long way from an apparition.

The reverence bounding its mystery continuously grows as more people from different parts of the world come to pay high regards to Our Lady’s image, proving that regardless of origins, no matter how far modernization takes us, we are never too far away from the church.

For more information regarding The Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag (7 May 2014) and schedule of services, visit www.manaoagshrine.org.

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RIZAL’S ROOTS IN LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN Written by Arabela Ventenilla Arcinue President, Pangasinan Heritage Society / Commissioner, Pangasinan Historical & Cultural Commission

hen the Pangasinan Heritage Society posted the maternal lineage of Dr. Jose Rizal in their booth during one “Pistay Dayat” celebration in Lingayen beach, the townspeople were pleasantly surprised to discover that our national hero had roots in their town. Along with an exhibit of vintage Filipiniana ternos and pictures of old Lingayen landmarks, the poster was there to proudly show how Rizal connected to his maternal great-great grandfather Don Manuel de Quintos.

While cameras clicked to have a copy of that exhibit piece, a few were heard to express their disbelief. But it’s true that Manuel de Quintos was an 18th century gobernadorcillo (mayor) of the Gremio de Mestisos, one of the two communities of Lingayen, the other one being Gremio de Naturales. “Naturales” meant the native indios while “mestisos” were the half-Chinese, half-native sangleys. The word “sangley” literally means trader in Chinese.

There was a large Chinese mestiso population in Lingayen so it was only here among all Pangasinan towns where the Spanish authorities allowed the simultaneous existence of these two different communities: the mestiso sangleys settled on the western part of the town by the bank of the Agno River where they conducted their business in what they called the Parian (Chinese for commercial and residential district); and the naturales on the eastern side, each with their own municipio (municipal bldg.) and gobernadorcillo (mayor).

This once Lingayen Parian is still home to some descendants of these Chinese mestisos whose surnames are suffixed by SON or the hispanized ZON: Sison, Samson, Bengson, Dizon, Puzon, Sayson, Ungson, Uson, etc. These are actually Chinese words and numerals combined into one. The meaning of Quintos in Chinese is not known but the Quintos families were original settlers in Parian and have produced painters, mathematicians and exemplary public servants.

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Don Manuel de Quintos, the gobernadorcillo, had a son and namesake, Manuel de Quintos, Jr., who went to Manila to study and practice law. In his Last Will and Testament of 1802, found in the National Archives, he declared that he “is a native of Lingayen, Cavisera of Pangasinan, legitimate son of a legitimate marriage between D. Manuel de Quintos and Dona Rosa del Rosario, both deceased and belonged to the Gremio de Mestisos of this town.” He further declared that one of his daughters is Brigida de Quintos.

Brigida married Alberto Alonso and their daughter, Teodora, was our national hero’s mother.

Brigida stood out as an erudite woman during her time when women were not sent to school.

It is said that she helped her future spouse with his mathematics while he was studying in Manila. Like her mother, Teodora Alonso was also an intelligent and educated woman. She was Rizal’s first teacher who taught him good values and the basic 3 R’s.

Historians in Dagupan have written that Rizal visited his cousin and sweetheart, Leonor Rivera, in Dagupan, where she resided for a few years and taught piano. But very few people know that he also visited her in nearby Lingayen when Leonor would stay in the house of her uncle, Leoncio Bauson, a brother of her mother Dona Silvestra “Betang” Bauson Rivera, and whose forebears were mestiso sangleys in the Parian.

According to Monsignor Luisito Ungson, a scion of this Parian, Rizal also stayed with the family of his relative Don Sisenando Jimenez, who was once mayor of Lingayen and the father-in-law of Supreme Court Justice Jose Bengzon, and grandfather of former DOH Secretary Alran Bengzon and Concon Delegate Jose “Peps” Bengzon.

This house is still standing in situ, across the site of the municipio, also called Mestiso Building, that once stood as a built heritage before it was leveled to the ground by vandals in the 1960s.

Some elderly people of the town have stories about Rizal’s visits. My mother used to tell us that

her father, Jose Sayson (b.1860), was one of Rizal’s friends in the Parian. He had a story about how Rizal would banter with his friends there and at the same time keep his hands busy, like carving a hard young guava fruit (called “pakulat” in Pangasinan), into some form of art! For him, there should be no time wasted.

Mrs. Nieves Bengson Cudala (daughter of former Congressman Antonio Bengson and aunt of the other congressman, Antonio “Joe” Bengson III), whose ancestors were also mestiso sangleys, one of them being a Quintos, had an interesting anecdote on Rizal. The story goes that he was invited to dinner by the young women of the family. They played a bad joke on him by putting some pieces of cotton in the main dish inotekan.

They watched him partake of it and waited for his reaction, but he disappointed them when he just swallowed the food, cotton and all without any comment or hint of discomfort! He must have been annoyed and did not want to give them the pleasure of an anticipated amusement.

Monsignor Luisito Ungson says that Rizal left his cane in the house of Leoncio Bauson. He said it was also there where Leonor, in a state of depression and frustration on her upcoming marriage to Charles Kipping, cut her long tresses and left it there for good. Unfortunately, the heirs of the Bauson family burned all the memorabilia of Mrs. Bauson when she passed away. They only saved the letters of her husband, Mr. Bauson, with some data about Rizal and Leonor, one of which was how the two got acquainted: Rizal was a boarder in the Bauson-Rivera rented house in Intramuros while Leonor was an “interna” student at the Colegio de la Concordia.

The anecdotes here are from credible sources who corroborated what we previously thought was just hearsay, thus making us believe that Jose Rizal indeed made visits to the Lingayen Parian.

And, the last will of his great grandfather is documentary proof of his maternal roots in Lingayen, Pangasinan.

Illustration by Alvin Adriano

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LEADERS I ICONS

GINA DE VENECIA THE QUINTESSENTIAL FILIPINA

aria Georgina P. De Venecia, also known as Manay Gina is married to Jose de Venecia Jr, Speaker of the House of Representatives in the 9th, 10th, 12th, 13th and 14th Congress. She has four children: Carissa, Philip, Christopher and KC. Gina has roots in both the world of politics and showbusiness. Her father was the famous starbuilder of Sampaguita Pictures, the late “Doc Perez’ of Bulacan, while her mother, the former Azucena Vera-Perez of Albay, is currently the president of Sampaguita Pictures and Vera-Perez Pictures. Her maternal grandfather Jose Vera was once the Governor of Albay, Senator of the Philippines, and Judge of the Lower Court of Manila.

She finished high school at the Assumption Convent, and acquired a degree in Business Administration in Pace College, New York City.

Immediately after graduation, she served as Vice President and Comptroller of Sampaguita Pictures, VP Enterprises and Jose Vera Corporation.

In 1992 she became the President and Chairperson of the Congressional Spouses Foundation, Inc. (CSFI). Her first two terms as CSFI president were defined by her landmark achievements in championing the cause of abused women, with the establishment of The Haven for Women in Alabang. It was inaugurated on September 30, 1995.

This was immediately followed by the construction of the 15 Regional Centers for Women, nationwide.

On February 15, 1997, Mrs. De Venecia also signed a Memorandum of Agreement with then DILG Secretary Robert Barbers that paved the way for the setting-up of Women’s Desk in every police station in the country.

The plight of battered women whose lives were transformed by The Haven for Women, served as inspiration for her radio program “Pirapirasong Pangarap,” launched in June 1996. The following year, its TV version made its debut on GMA 7. After seven years, the program was re-launched as “Nagmamahal, Manay Gina” in the tri-media: DZBB, Tempo & Balita and GMA 7. “Nagmamahal, Manay Gina” chronicled true-to-life stories of everyday heroes on DZBB. It was adjudged as the country’s Best Radio Drama by the prestigious Catholic Mass Media Award (CMMA) three times. In 2009, it was elevated to the Hall of Fame by the CMMA. To date, she maintains an advice column in Tempo.

Manay Gina also lends her name to noble causes: As Chairperson of the 2002 Apolinario Mabini Awards that honored the achievements

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of the disabled; and the 2002 Aliw Awards that gave recognition to outstanding artists.

On January 15, 2004, she inaugurated The Haven for Children in Muntinlupa City, that rehabilitates streetchildren, ages 7 to 12.

In 2006, she brought her campaign to save the abandoned children on a national scale by finishing four Regional Centers for Children in Dagupan City, Tarlac City, Solana, Cagayan and Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. A tragedy that took her youngest child, KC on December 16, 2004 moved Mrs. De Venecia to establish the INA (Inang Naulila sa Anak) Foundation. Its mission is to provide psycho–social support to grieving mothers who lost their child. On December 16, 2006, in commemoration of KC’s 2nd death anniversary, INA Healing Center was opened at the DSWD Compound, Batasan Hills, Quezon City.

In 2007, she started her third project as President of the CSFI, The Haven for the Elderly, a 20-building facility for abandoned senior citizens, in Tanay, Rizal. It was formally opened on April 28, 2010.

Thus far, it is considered the largest welfare facility in the country.

For all her achievements, Mrs. de Venecia has received numerous recognitions, including: a Doctorate Degree in Humanities conferred by the Mindanao State University in 2001, for championing the cause of the disadvantaged. She was also given the same recognition by the Pangasinan State University & Laguna State Polytechnic University in 2007, and the University of Luzon in 2010.

During the celebration of the International Women’s Day on March 7, 2007, Mrs. De Venecia received the prestigious Outstanding Humanitarian Service Award from the International Centennial Feminist Association of the Philippines and the Rotary Club of Manila 101.

On June 26, 2010 she took her oath of office in Malacanang, before President Benigno Aquino III, as the Representative of the 4th District of Pangasinan. On January, 2011, she was elected as President of the Association of Women Legislators Foundation, Inc. (AWLFI) of the 15th Congress.

Her second year as lawmaker was capped by an award from the Publishers Association of the Philippines (PAPI) on July 20, 2012, as the lone female legislator in its list of Ten Outstanding Congressmen of the Philippines for 2011.

Last May 13, 2013, Gina de Venecia won for the second time as Congresswoman of Pangasinan’s 4th District. She was also re-elected as President of the Association of Women Legislators Foundation (AWLFI) of the 16th Congress.

Photograph by Ding Carreon BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

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Former Speaker of the House, Jose de Venecia Jr. and Congresswoman Gina de Venecia

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COVER STORY I GETAWAYS

DASOLAND FAMILY ADVENTURE PARK AN UNEXPECTED EDEN

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here should I go?

It’s the most commonly, and also equally unnerving, asked question in Balikbayan. Surely, there are hundreds of places to go to in the country, including those still waiting to be discovered. Choices of popular places where tourists can feel like tourists, and options far-fetched from the typical getaway expectations. As a travel magazine, it’s a challenge to surprise us. Not to be condescending, but when you’ve seen too many, comparison takes up a notch. We hear of a place, do basic research, then brace ourselves for “the experience.” And it is almost always that our inceptive impression of the place ends up being concordant of the actual experience.

For this issue’s feature on Pangasinan, Dasol came as a combination of unexpectedness and wonder. Dubbed as the “Salt of Pangasinan,” this town is the biggest producer of high-quality salt in the province. According to history, its name was derived from dosol, an herbal plant of oval shape with deep greenish hue. During the Spanish period, this medicinal plant was often used to treat infected wounds. Spaniards often mispronounced this to dasol and over time, people have gone accustomed to this blunder. By the time the town was established as a municipality, dasol was already the common reference along with the mysterious extinction of the actual dosol plant.

An hour drive from Alaminos City, Pangasinan is the unexpected eden that has been a sanctuary for those longing for tranquility and unconventional experience. Opened in March 2011, Dasoland is sheltered within the Carolina Mango Farm in Barangay San Vicente. Owned by the former president of GMA Network Mr Menardo Jimenez, this 408 hectare nature reserve offers an opportunity for both tourists and local guests to experience country living—and by country, we mean the Filipino barrio way of life. But what is barrio living, exactly?

Imagine waking up to the euphony of chirping birds. You stretch and press your face anew against the soft, white lace pillow fighting the tempting urge to go back to sleep. Squinting, you see the stunning view of the landscape from your long capiz window laden with intricate wooden carving slowly growing more vivid as you blink. The soft, morning light creeping out your window is inviting.

You get up, ram the window further open, and take in that distinctive smell of freshly cut grass that seems to take the stress out with each exhale. As you go on with the rest of the day, you are bereft of the nagging pressure of modern existence, part from the domestic and often unexpected scenery that leaves you indecisive on extending your stay.

The experience in Dasoland is nostalgic, to say the least. It’s such a revelation to know that nestled along the western end of Pangasinan, there’s a whole new feast happening. Here, you can live the life you only hear from old stories told by your not-so-young relatives and friends. You can harvest your own mangoes

from among their 3800 mango trees that are especially fruitful during April and May by either climbing the sturdy branches or by testing your aim using a long stick or panungkit. After munching on those delectable mangoes, you can stroll around the vicinity and expand your perspectives in history and culture.

The World War II museum is a good start. It houses an assortment of military vehicles and weaponry. A tour in this exhibit is like a walk in the past during the time when the world was less liberal.

Never been to Cordillera? The Ifugao Village is a perfect prelude to the history and ethnicity of Ifugao province. It is also an interesting reflection of our colorful culture. Here, you will find traditional Ifugao houses with their distinct coneshaped roofs, and artifacts such as the bulul or figures made of wood.

On a quirkier side, a trip to the owner’s collection of diverse items acquired all over the world is one that would leave you amused. From Coca-Cola soda bottles, beers from different countries, to a Barbie doll collection dressed in traditional costumes representing different countries, both children and young-at-hear can relive precious childhood memories like it was yesterday.

If history and culture sounds less festive, you can experience Christmas all year-long at the Christmas Village. Here, visitors need not wait for December to see Santa Claus. Nearby, is a showcase of dioramas depicting the Nativity.

Still, if your sugar rush from all those sweet mangoes hasn’t subsided, you can embark on a more intrepid adventure at the Dasoland Zoo. This wildlife park gives you the chance to have an up-close encounter with the elegant flamingos, have a photo taken with the “roaming” camel, feed the ostrich, pet the people-friendly deers, or feel regal for a day while riding the horses. The zoo also houses two of the rarest, endemic crocodiles in the country. But if you don’t have the audacity to take a closer look, the nearby Butterfly Garden would definitely inspire a sense of awe and romanticism. Inside, you can witness, firsthand, the metamorphosis you only see on TV and in biology text books. If you hold out a finger and remain perfectly still, you might even attract a butterfly to perch on your jutted pointy.

A barrio life is best described as a simple, quiet, and uncomplicated living.

It is in this lifestyle where you are one with nature and with the Creator. As a means of reconnecting, you can wander along the brick steps piled with beautiful landscape leading to the church on top of a hill. This quaint, al fresco heaven played host to a mass celebration of love among 15 couples last February 14. An amorous confirmation that in tranquil places, often neglected things like sentimental gestures are best appreciated.

“A chance...to experience quiet rural life” as Mr. Jimenez puts it. And indeed, the entire escape is anything but quiet. Mr. Jimenez’ legacy of creating a sanctuary of pure rural bliss is a perfect get away from the busy and draining life in the city. And it is warmly being shared to anyone seeking solace.

Start your own rural bliss by visiting tour.dasolandresort.com

Written by Mary May Portez / Photographs Courtesy of Dasoland APRIL / MAY 2014

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ARTS & CULTURE I BOOKS

A m e r i c a in Our Hearts

A L a n d m a r k B o o k O n I m p o r ta n t F i l i p i n o s i n t h e U n i t e d S tat e s

THE ASIAN JOURNAL GROUP JOINS FORMER PRESIDENT FIDEL V. RAMOS IN PIONEERING HISTORICAL PROJECT TO BE LAUNCHED IN THE US. Written by Marie-Alsie G. Penaranda / Photograph by Noel Ty

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FVR WITH BOOK PUBLISHERS AND AUTHORS. FORMER PRESIDENT FIDEL V. RAMOS IS JOINED BY ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLISHER ROGER ORIEL, SILVER LININGS AUTHOR MELANDREW T. VELASCO, PROFESSOR AND FORMER NATIONAL PRESS CLUB PRESIDENT ALFRED G. GABOT, MEDIA TOUCHSTONE VENTURES CREATIVE MANAGER MICHELLE CABRERA MANUEL AND OTHER STAFF AT THE BOOK LAUNCHING OF FVR’S NEW BOOK TITLED “REFORM, PERFORM AND TRANSFORM.” VELASCO, ORIEL AND GABOT HAVE TEAMED UP WITH FVR FOR A LANDMARK COFFEE TABLE BOOK, “AMERICA IN OUR HEARTS” WHICH IS A CHRONICLE OF THE STRUGGLES AND ACHIEVEMENTS OF FILIPINOS IN AMERICA OVER THE CENTURIES.

n many of his state and working visits to the United States as Philippine President, Fidel V. Ramos acknowledged the important role the Filipinos have played over the years and will play in the coming years in America. President Ramos also rallied the Filipinos there to continue helping their motherland, citing them for their vital contributions to the country’s growth and development through their sizable remittances to their family and relatives and the trade and commerce between the two countries, among others.

Mr. Ramos’ rallying point in speeches in key cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle and Chicago was a Filipino who made his mark in the US as a literary giant and as an important and pioneering fixture in the labor movement, union organization and the fight for rights for workers and the minority and ethnic groups. This Filipino is Carlos S. Bulosan who came to America as a young man, endured the harsh life in the farms, the ghettoes and the Alaska canneries and widespread racial discrimination. President Ramos said: “Carlos Bulosan, my neighbor in Pangasinan (Ramos is from Asingan while Bulosan is from nearby Binalonan town), arrived in Seattle, Washington poor and unlettered; then worked in canneries, picked fruits and vegetables and did other menial jobs.”

President Ramos said that, compared to many other Filipinos, Bulosan taught himself to be a better person, becoming thus a literary giant of his time in America, among others.

Bulosan authored several books, including the semi-authobiographical book “America is in Heart” which chronicles the difficulties and painful struggles of Filipinos for acceptance in America in the 1930s and 1940s, those times when signs like “Dogs and Filipinos not allowed” were common. He captured the Filipinos often cruel stories with a sensitivity that tugged at the heart of every Filipino So powerful is Bulosan’s presentation that thousands of copies of the book were sold, and even up to the present, it is required reading in high schools and colleges in the US. The book, first published in 1946 by Harcourt Brace & Co, was re-published by the University of Washington in 1973 with an introduction by American writer Carey Williams. The university is also the repository of all the original works of Bulosan. Bulosan is also the author of the famous short story “The Laughter of My Father” which shot him to prominence in America. The story was translated into various languages and together with his other stories, was published in 1943 by Harcourt Brace & Co. into a book with the same title.

It was also in 1943 that Carlos Bulosan was commissioned by US President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and The Saturday Evening Post to write one of the four freedoms for his inauguration. Bulosan’s essay, “Freedom from Want,” was published by the magazine side by side with “Freedom of Speech” by Booth Tarkington, “Freedom of Worship” by Will Durant and “Freedom from Fear” by Stephen Vincent Benet, and illustrated by famous American artist Norman Rockwell. Tarkington, Durant and Benet were all Pulitzer Prize winning authors and among the most popular American authors of the 20th century. The fact that Bulosan was commissioned and published along with the three famous authors is a testament to his literary prowess and success.

Carlos Bulosan is perhaps the most prolific and most popular Filipino writer of his time in America. His works— short stories, essays and poems – were published in leading magazines of his day, like The New Yorker Magazine, The Saturday Evening Post, Harper’s Bazaar, Town and Country, Arizona Quarterly and Westways, among others.

He was not only a literary giant. He was also in the league of the famous Mexican labor leader Cesar Chavez as he was one of the pioneers in the fight for workers rights and in organizing labor unions in the US. One of the unions which he helped organize is, in fact, still existing in Seattle, Washington.

In paying tribute to Carlos Bulosan, Ramos stressed:“If life is so much better here for minority groups today, they owe a great part of that change to this man—Carlos Bulosan.

We may not remember Carlos Bulosan, but his ideals–and his struggles—have survived him.”

Mr. Ramos, this time with his Ramos Peace and Development Foundation Inc., is again honoring Mr. Bulosan through a landmark historical coffee table book whose title is derived from Bulosan’s major work. This book is called “America in Our Hearts” which is expected to be launched in US and the Philippines this year with the support of friends.

With Ramos biographer Melandrew T. Velasco spearheading the project as main author, the book is being produced with the Asian Journal Group, the biggest Filipino-American media chain in America headed by Roger L. Oriel and the Media Touchstone Ventures Inc. (MTVI). Its co-author Alfredo G. Gabot, is a university professor, former president of the National Press Club and a respected journalist in Manila and US. To come in full color from cover to cover, characteristic of the high quality of the more than a dozen commissioned books of Melandrew Velasco and his MTVI, the book celebrates the far-reaching and immense contributions that Filipinos and Filipino Americans have made over the centuries in America. The book is timely because the Philippines and the United States have recently commemorated the 100th year of migrant Filipino worker in America.

It is also timely because America is in a global repositioning towards Asia and the Pacific bolstering its the link of the Philippines and America.

Over the past 100 years, the Filipinos have contributed in almost every walk of American life. It is, however, only over the past few decades that their works and contributions have become more clearly recognized and acknowledged, so that the true value of their endeavors, the vast and remarkable differences they have made are clear and indisputable. Unknown to many, the indisputable truth is that the Filipinos were in America centuries earlier.

Historical accounts showed that the Filipinos could be the first Asians to set foot in San Francisco and California.

In fact, they were among the crew of the Manila galleon ship San Agustin which landed in San Francisco Bay on November 6, 1595 and were witnesses when Captain Sebastian Rodriguez Cermeno gave the beautiful place its name “La Bahia de San Francisco.” They were among the founders of Los Angeles. The stories of the Manila men in the bayous of Louisiana much earlier continue to amaze historians. And so are the thousands who manned the Mexico-Manila galleon ships for 250 years, many of them found their way in the coasts of California and other areas.

From galleon ships crew to farm and cannery workers and sacadas to government scholars and pensionados, scientists and inventors, professionals and business leaders, the Filipinos have gone a long way making their mark in the halls of the US Congress, the US courts, the US Army and the Navy, Hollywood and up to the White House. Today, there are some 4.5 Filipinos in America, and their number is expected to increase fast. “America in Our Hearts” will a book that chronicles their journey, their struggles and achievements and one that will promote love and pride for their native land and Filipino heritage. Watch out for the book. Reserve your copies with the Asian Journal Group.

APRIL / MAY 2014

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US$Êx°ääU* *Ê£xä°ää

local insights. international experience.

CONNECTING GLOBAL TRAVELERS WITH THE PHILIPPINES SINCE 2009.

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In Focus

MEDICAL TOURISM IN THE PHILIPPINES

What you need to know Analysis

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

Icons

DR. FE del MUNDO —————— The Artist

CARLYN NUYDA CALLOWAY —————— The Designer

DAVID TUPAZ —————— Real Estate

APPLEONE PROPERTIES

Escapes

REDISCOVERING DIVING IN NEGROS OCCIDENTAL Destinations

5 HOT SPOTS FOR A HEALTHY RECOVERY

Exploring the Treasures of

pangasinan Reviving Urduja

THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE CAPITAL

the economy

IS PANGASINAN READY FOR TAKEOFF?

bangus

NOT JUST ANOTHER FISH IN THE SEA

agriculture tourism A COMING OF AGE

OUR LADY’S CALL VISITING MANAOG

RIZAL’S ROOTS

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN

GINA DE VENECIA

THE QUINTESSENTIAL FILIPINA

dasoland family adventure park AN UNEXPECTED EDEN

america in our hearts

A LANDMARK BOOK ON IMPORTANT FILIPINOS IN THE UNITED STATES

FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS AND ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES, EMAIL US AT INFO@ASIANJOURNALINC.COM

APRIL / MAY 2014

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TRAVEL I DISCOVERY

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Writer / Photographer Christina M. Oriel

PUERTO GALERA, ORIENTAL MINDORO HOW TO GET HERE From Manila, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a two-hour drive to Batangas Port. There are ferries and outrigger bots, which take about 90 minutes to Capalan Port. Upon reaching Capalan, you can take a jeep, bus or tricycle to your f inal destination in Puerto Galera.

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TRAVEL I DISCOVERY

“You’re still young. You need to learn how to dive.”

It was an order I heard countlessly during my five-day stay in Puerto Galera.

I didn’t know much about Puerto Galera prior to this trip. It’s a place that doesn’t roll off the tongue as frequently as Boracay or Palawan. Nonetheless, I was prepared for an excursion to another destination in the Philippines.

Little did I know was that Puerto Galera is home to more than 30 dive sites. People from all over the world come to this tip of the Mindoro Island to dive in these spots that are considered best kept secrets.

At one point, I was riding a two-seater boat when we passed a boat with eight divers clad in their wet suits and lugging oxygen tanks on their backs. Each diver slowly leaped off one by one.

Observing that instant between standing up inside the boat and heading underwater was fascinating. From above, the water was so transparent you could already see schools of fish swimming by.

It’s mind-boggling trying to imagine what else they’d come across.

For me, diving has never been a serious consideration. It strengthens your lungs. It’s liberating and empowering to be in that vast space, they say. To be a certified diver is membership to an exclusive network with access to a different world in which you encounter life forms so delicate and varied in sizes.

My relationship with the open water has purely been on the surface—sailing on boats, disconnected with the underneath; swimming, returning before the shoreline is barely visible; snorkeling, still not venturing deep enough.

But position me on a not so crowded beach and I’ll be content. There’s a mindfulness in rousing all five senses without forcing them into overdrive. Refined, lightly colored sand becomes a resting place just as long as the sun’s rays aren’t blazing. The clear ocean is aesthetically pleasing to the eye while the sound of waves crashing reverberate, producing a soothing effect. The salty aroma of the water carried by a slight breeze tickles the nostrils. I can faintly taste the brine by the time I leave.

The municipality of Puerto Galera is booming, but is not too commercialized and overrun with luxurious resorts compared to other popular locations in the country. It’s not a destination if you 48

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TRAVEL I DISCOVERY

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want to be indulged (at least not yet), unless getting a massage on a busy beach is your idea of pampering. Rather, it’s where those who seek the thrill of adventures and live on the edge can do so on a budget.

A hint of uneasiness intertwined with raging curiosity emerged upon arriving in this new setting, especially since it meant spending several days in a rustic developing town with a group of strangers—individuals all dedicated to the crafts of writing and photography bound together with a collective desire to travel.

On our first night, we maneuvered through back alleyways to reach White Beach, one of the more touristy hangouts. The peaceful village around our hotel soon became a strip of blaring pop music, flashing strobe lights and vendors buzzing in our ears to purchase souvenirs. We walked past bodies plopped face down on the sand as they were being kneaded, fire dancers exhibiting their routines, tattoo parlors run by men in in long dreadlocks, restaurant hostesses flagging us to come in.

We trekked across the sloping sand and finally settled down at an establishment where guests sit under nipa huts and listen to a live rock band perform. It may not have been the idyllic beach scene I described earlier, but there was a mysterious charm that lured us in and kept us coming back each night of the trip. It became a place where my travel companions and I got to know each other and exchange ideas.

The next morning we boarded an outrigger boat and began our island hopping tour. Our boat, holding eight passengers, stopped so we could transfer by twos to smaller motorized boats. Some went snorkeling, while others stayed to feed bread to fish. We were then convinced by the boatmen to go to the Underwater Cave.

Once the boats docked on a shaded island, an older man greeted us with

a bucket of live sea urchin. Sold at 50 pesos each, the man cut the sea urchin in half then cleaned the insides with salt water. You can squeeze calamansi and vinegar onto its flesh or taste it as is. It really doesn’t get any fresher than that. We were then directed to a small hole that led into the cave. Inside, the water sat waist high and led into the ocean. To get out, we could choose to either swim back onto shore or climb up the cave and go down a steep rock formation, which offered a sweeping view of the water.

Then came my favorite part of the trip: visiting the native Mangyan people. Their village in Talipanan consists of almost 300 identical houses and a school for the children. When we arrived, a dozen women were weaving intricate baskets and bowls using bamboo and other natural resources. These handicrafts are their main source of income and are sold at the entrance of the village. Barefoot boys passed time by playing a game of basketball on a beautiful court surrounded by trees and mountains. Giggling toddlers chased around chickens. School-aged children trickled out of class and made their way home before sundown.

Observing the Mangyan way of living brought the phrase, simpleng buhay (the simple life), to mind. The Mangyan people are naturally shy, as they just smiled when asked to explain and show off their crafts or when we walked by. However, they were welcoming to outsiders who went into their territory and a bit fascinated with their visitors. It was eye opening to see a preserved native culture with its own language and customs, so unscathed by modernity and the outside surroundings.

On our last day, we passed the Tamaraw Falls on the way to San Teodoro, a municipality about 12 miles from Puerto Galera. The falls sit atop a lush mountain and descend into a natural pool above a bridge that sits next to the road. It’s a small attraction but worth a stop for a picnic, a swim or photo-op.

Our tour guide then parked the van near a hill and encouraged us to get off.

Wedged in between foliage and houses was the entrance to Tukuran Hanging Bridge. The bridge, completely made of steel and ropes, was surprisingly sturdy and offered an extensive view of the river. Most of us, hesitant at first, walked slowly across the bridge and felt accomplished after the feat.

Hopping back into the van, we drove for a few more minutes then reached the end of a hill where several carabao (water buffalo) carts awaited us. We boarded the carts and began our thirty minute ride through bumpy, unpaved terrain and shallow rivers. It was during this ride that I learned how strong carabaos were, not just producers of very delectable cheese.

The carabao stopped on a grassy area in front of La Pantay Falls. Our tour guide motioned us to sit down at tables with food placed directly on fresh banana leaves. The meal included laing (dried taro leaves in coconut milk), fish, barbeque, vegetables and of course, rice.

“This is called a boodle fight. You eat with your hands,” someone whispered in my ear.

I’m familiar with the kamayan concept, in which utensils are foregone; but the spread in front of us was intriguing: no plates or serving spoons. Simply use your hands to grab your serving and plop it onto your small section of the banana leaf.

We were into the fourth day of our trip and this meal described how comfortable we became as a previous group of strangers. To eat with others using bare hands requires some level of trust and lack of judgment. The more I experience meals in the Philippines, the more I understand the emphasis on camaraderie.

Our last activity for the trip was a two-hour sunset cruise from White Beach to Muelle Bay. We sailed through areas we had visited days before, seeing them in a different light enhanced their beauty, and stayed until the sun completely fell, only to be surrounded by complete darkness. Everything came together for a perfect send-off: the breezy weather, peaceful ambiance and the hues in the sky.

It has been a solid two weeks since this trip, but I still have yet to make sense of it all.

I’m the type of traveler who likes to gather lessons and experiences from the places I visit. It’s not just about taking a picture of a breathtaking sunset —it’s about what’s not captured on camera, what happened as the sun went down, the people I was with, the stories we shared.

I’d like to re-visit Puerto Galera later on and see how its changed or if it maintains its sleepy beach town quality. Perhaps, in my more adventurous bouts with at least a week to spare, I’ll finally take those dive lessons.

Special thanks to the Department of Tourism, Tourism and Travel Board, the Provincial and Local Governments and Tourism Offices of Oriental Mindoro.

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TRAVEL I UP & COMING DESTINATION

WHEN IN LEGAZPI, DON’T MISS...

1. THE MAYON VOLCANO 2. LIGÑON HILL NATURE PARK 3.THE BOULEVARD/EMBARCADERO FOR SAILING, DIVING OR BUTANDING (WHALE SHARK) WATCHING. 4. CAGSAWA RUINS 5. PILI NUTS—THE PERFECT PASALUBONG!

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LEGAZPI, ALBAY

Q&A WITH MAYOR NOEL E. ROSAL Interview / Photograph by Christina M. Oriel

If you’ve never heard of the city of Legazpi, you soon will. Mayor Noel E. Rosal sat down with Balikbayan Magazine to share the infrastructure changes and tourism efforts happening in the next few years.

Q: IN THIS LATEST TERM, WHAT ARE YOUR OBJECTIVES? A: We changed our tagline to “City of Fun and Adventure” because we don’t want to compete with the white beaches, which we only have a few of in Albay. But we want to emphasize fun and adventure. We want a different kind of tourism called geo-tourism or eco-tourism.

We have the ATV tour, the manmade Boulevard development… and we are now building a new water sports [complex] that will really cater to families, so that we want to have a semblance of activities for the parents and children.

Q: HOW DOES THE LOCAL POPULATION FIT INTO YOUR TOURISM GOALS? A: Legazpi City is the center of trading and education in the entire Bicolandia. A lot of people from [other provinces] come here to study, so sometimes we have more than the population [of 200,000], sometimes even twice. When I say trading, a lot of people from other provinces come to Legazpi for that.

We are now creating opportunities for everyone—for employment, especially in the retailing business. We want to be the trading center of this region. So all the needs from the clothes, necessary materials in the household or even in construction, we want to cater to the other six provinces of the Bicol region.

Q: HOW IS THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT? A: The international airport is a dream come true for us. If you notice, we are always in the bottom twelve because the flights to Legazpi are not for all weather [types]. If rain comes, the plane cannot land. With the construction of this new airport, we will put not only Legazpi but the entire Bicol on the map as the next tourist destination. With this infrastructure, we will open direct flights because we are closer to Japan and Korea than they are to Manila. Hopefully it will be finished by 2016.

Q: WHAT ARE THE COMPONENTS OF THE CITY’S GREEN PROGRAM? A: Of course, no smoking. We started using solar power—it will be a five to ten year program. We’re also urging the public to use more LED lights. We have this tree-planting program each year [in which] we require that everyone in the public participate. This past Valentine’s Day 10,000 trees were planted.

Q: HOW WILL YOU ENSURE THAT ALL OF THESE PROJECTS (INFRASTRUCTURE, TOURISM, GREEN PROGRAM) WILL BE SUSTAINABLE FOR YEARS TO COME? A: Because of climate change, we’ve started identifying all those areas vulnerable to natural disasters. To be able to sustain [the projects], we are careful to pinpoint the investment areas—we have to be ahead of the investors—for resorts, water sports, BPOs. We are also looking into call centers [given] that Legazpi is the center of education in the region.

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VACATION I TRAVEL

MISIBIS BAY Written by Amelia Davis Photographed by Vince Samson / Christina Oriel

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO AT MISIBIS BAY 1. Try something new—whether it's a new food or a new water activity go for it!

2. Go swimming with whale sharks.

3. Learn how to wind sale, kayak, paddle boat in the safety of the Misibis Bay with friendly instructors.

4. Ride ATVs 5. Try your luck at the casino! extra 6. RELAX! Take a snooze by the pool or listening to the sounds of the ocean. You deserve to feel refreshed and take a few moments for yourself.

he work week gets hectic, your to-do list piles up, and you can’t remember the last time that you smiled. Any of that sound familiar to some of you?

Life can get crazy, that’s just part of the game, but going to a place like Misibis Bay can help take some of the edge away.

After a brilliantly short flight and a long winding road to Cagraray Island you are greeted by dancers, salty air, and warm smiles. No detail is too small for Misibis. The employees are personal, caring, and make you feel like an individually special guest.

From “Mabuhay” to “would you like some more water”, everyone is well-trained with a friendly touch. After the introduction speech by the front office personnel, we were taken to our spacious and clean room that overlooks the pool. The view from my bed alone was enough to take my breath away. But the Bicol charm didn’t stop there.

After a scrumptious lunch and nap we headed down to the water front for some real fun. While my mates watched from the comfort of their lounge chair I took a lesson in wind surfing—apparently their entertainment for the afternoon. It was fun, it was hard, and I can’t wait to try it again one day. But after I had embarrassed myself enough, we decided to take a wild ride on the hobie cat. It was my first time to ride in this mini sailboat and I had so much fun enjoying the waves and beautiful view.

Just when I thought my face would fall off from smiling and laughing so much we went for an ATV ride to watch the sun set. And man, it’s a shame that I’m single.

Between the adorable set up from Misibis bay and the golden light setting over Mayon and 4 other (mountain peaks/volcanos) that spot has to be one of the most romantic places I have ever seen in the Philippines. If you are looking for a romantic dinner or a place to pop the question, Misibis bay has you covered.

Luckily for me, the fun didn’t stop on the first day there. After loading up on a delicious breakfast we headed to Legazpi to try out some of the exciting tie-ups Misibis have. We weren’t at all disappointed. We went to the Sitio Reception at Eco-Energy Park to tour the base of the volcano with atvs. Misibis Bay offers amazing tours of the volcano that range from short rides to the lava field to multi day camping excursions. We opted for the shorter tour that took us up through creeks, country side, lava fields and mining areas. Splashing through the water was a blast and I love all of the great pictures we were able to capture along the way. Our trail ended at a community supported by the resort where we had coconuts straight from the trees and a nice rest from the ride. You can opt to climb onto the lava field for another breath taking view before you zip line back down! For the adrenalin junky this is a great fix! However, I have to say my favorite part was still to come!

I am a travel buff. Four continents and quite a few countries down and I’ve never been able to do something as cool as swimming with whale sharks. It’s actually one of the reasons I wanted to come to the Philippines. After my squeals of excitement about this opportunity, my coworker and I hopped on the boat and set out for our adventure. However, after almost an hour later there was still no sign of a whale shark. The impatience and fear of a missed opportunity started to sink in. We knew that they were there, just hiding down somewhere under the dark blue water. Then I spotted it! A magnificent baby whale shark feeding at the surface, its fin in the air and mouth wide open. I knew it would be big but I didn’t expect it to also be terrifying. From the boat its fin and tail look more like a great white than a whale.

But thankfully I didn’t have enough time to let my survival instincts kick in and make me chicken out. We had no time to think before jumping in the water with the instructor. Being within a few feet of such a magnificent animal was a completely surreal moment. A tangible mix of pure excitement and fear. I knew that the shark was harmless but when you are in the water with a shark that is twice your size— your heart can’t help but skip a beat.

After the swim, the short car ride back to Misibis Bay was very quiet as everyone tried to catch a snooze from the full day of excitement. My only regret at that point was that I would have to leave in the morning. Misibis Bay is a place for lovers, for adventurers, for people who just need to get away and breath some fresh salty air. It’s a relaxing place, a gentle place, that is as warm as the heart of the Filipino people that I come to love.

Thanks for the laughs Misibis Bay, and thanks for adding to the proof that it’s more fun in the Philippines.

APRIL / MAY 2014

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BUSINESS I THE EXECUTIVE ROOM

SOUND BITES WITH ERWAN PERSONAL MANTRA NEVER BE DETERRED FROM YOUR ORIGINAL IDEA. FAVORITE INGREDIENT TO COOK WITH VEGETABLES FUNNIEST/CRAZIEST EXPERIENCE IN THE KITCHEN IN RUSSIA, COMING INTO WORK AT 5 A.M. AND SEEING 30 COOKS DRUNK AND PLAYING WITH KNIVES. BEST DISH TASTED IN METRO MANILA SLOW COOKED BABY LAMB AT CIRKULO FAVORITE COCKTAIL SAZERAC – RYE WHISKEY, A SUGAR CUBE AND ABSINTHE. I LIKE TO MAKE MINE WITH PEACH BITTERS. MY “LAST SUPPER” WOULD BE… PORK SINIGANG WITH ALL THE RICE I HAVE TO MAKE UP FOR. I WOULD COOK IT MYSELF.

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A SELF-PROCLAIMED GLORIFIED HOME COOK, FOOD BLOGGER, ENTREPRENEUR, AND TRIATHLETE— A FEW OF THE MANY WAYS TO DESCRIBE ERWAN HEUSSAFF, WHO IS CURRENTLY SHAKING UP THE FOOD SCENE IN METRO MANILA. Written by Christina Oriel / Photographed by Noel Ty

“....DURING A conversation with Erwan, you can gather he is inquisitive, analytical, and visionary.

He speaks with the air of a well-read individual and a seasoned traveler...”

t’s almost lunchtime on a Monday and I meet up with Erwan Heussaff at Pink Panda, a Southeast Asian diner tucked in the backstreets of Makati.

By the main bamboo doors, two lawn flamingos are upright on a long dining counter and a vintage bicycle – resembling one that could have been ridden through the Vietnam countryside—leans against a wall. Black boxy metals hang from the ceiling; soon, they’ll be lined with neon lights to resemble a hanging cityscape.

The back corner houses the bar, where beverages and cocktails with cheeky monikers (i.e. the Pink Panty for the house special iced tea and Fangs & Bangs for a bourbon mixed drink) are concocted. A private dining room, with a wooden table that seats nine diners, comes with a view of the kitchen and has shelves that hold nonchalantly placed trinkets.

In stark contrast to the outdoor surroundings, the diner’s interior vibrantly captures the region and complements the culinary offerings without coming across as too contrived or kitschy.

Erwan picks a table, which like others is decorated with reproduced, sepiatoned clippings of Southeast Asian newspapers behind patterned glass.

By the time we meet, he has had a productive morning, beginning with a daily morning workout – he’s also training for the Ironman 70.3 in Kona this upcoming May – and will be making the rounds of his restaurants after our meeting.

He’s the brains, or “concept person,” as he calls himself, behind Pink Panda and three other establishments, Hatch 22 at Rockwell Power Plant and the Hungry Hound and Niner Ichi Nana in Bonifacio Global City (the Fort).

DURING A CONVERSATION with Erwan, you can gather he is inquisitive, analytical, and visionary. He speaks with the air of a well-read individual and a seasoned traveler.

In 2008, then 21 years old and a fresh graduate from a university in Paris, he was already managing an industrial catering outfit in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk,

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PI N K PANDA

Russia (Far Eastern Siberia, essentially) that prepared over a thousand meals each day for business centers, off-shore installations and mining camps.

Before that, Erwan spent school breaks working in the food and hospitality industries of China, Vietnam and Greece, each six months at a time, and was sent to Thailand for five months to train for the job in Russia.

After his two-year term was up, Sodexo, the company he was working for, offered to relocate him to either Nigeria, where he would be bound by contract to only stay in the hotel, or the Falkland Islands, which he knew was a disputed territory.

That’s when he decided to return to the Philippines and study for the GMAT, thinking he’d move abroad again months later to pursue an MBA degree.

After much consideration, he didn’t want to put his professional life on hold. He observed that friends who live in the United States and Europe couldn’t find jobs, even those with MBAs. “In the Philippines, if you have a strong character, you’re smart, you know what you’re doing and you’re driven, then there are a lot of doors open for you to take those opportunities. In other countries, if you do that, there are 500 other people like you gunning for the same position, so I think people (like young Filipinos abroad) should reconsider coming back here, especially [(those) who are really goal-oriented and want to change something,” remarks Erwan.

He decided to work for Newrest SOS, his father’s company that provides logistics for oil, gas and other related industries. Erwan saw an opportunity to develop an industrial catering division and helped sell 80 percent of the company to international partners.

AS IF his work experiences weren’t enough to be distinguishing features, by 23, Erwan lost nearly 100–91, to be exact–pounds.

It’s a story of transformation that he is candid to share with the hope of inspiring and motivating others. His blog TheFatKidInside.com, which he started in 2011, features delicious, yet healthy recipes and short videos of him cooking at home.

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“When I started the blog, I really wanted to see where the country was [and] get a pulse of the food culture locally. I thought one way to do that is to have a story that is relatable to so many people,” he recalls.

He credits his two backgrounds, Filipino and French, for his passion of food. The former heavily revolves around food, which he says “was consequent – I got really big because I loved to eat. It was normal to each that much.” The latter focuses more on the quality of ingredients, which is what he rediscovered and learned to appreciate during his weight-loss journey.

There years later, Erwan is still very involved with the blog and envisions it to become the go-to resource for anything food-related in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. He’s also boosting the blog’s presence on YouTube, which will feature videos of others also spirited about food.

Every day, he receives messages from readers who seek advice and share how the blog has guided their respective weight-loss journeys. He emphasizes that it is indeed possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle in the Philippines since there are fresh fish and vegetables available at the markets. Some simple ways to start are to switch to brown rice, since it’s not refined and processed like its white counterpart, and to not take shortcuts by using pre-packaged seasonings.

Though he regularly cooks at home and has extensive knowledge of culinary techniques–he’s self-taught from reading books and watching videos–he swears that he’s not a chef. He’ll simply shrug and refer to himself as a “glorified home cook.”

WHEN ASKED about the differences in the Philippine food industry, Erwan remarks about how emotional the working environment can be. He remembers being culture shocked when first venturing into the industry here because the employees would take things personally. Currently, the culture he tries to implement is one that is straightforward with no gossip or secrets.

As for the budding culinary scene in Metro Manila, he says it’s “just like our real estate, it’s hypercompetitive. There are so many places opening up, but it has to be taken with a grain of salt because just because there are a

HATCH 22

hundred places opening up that doesn’t mean there are [all] good places.

You can really tell the difference between restaurants and bars with a vision, with a coherent concept and those that are broadly created.”

HAVING WORKED in various facets of the food industry, it was a natural progression for Erwan to venture into the restaurant business.

Erik Cua’s group invited Erwan to join Hungry Hound, a freestyle gastropub, and Niner Ichi Nana, a craft cocktail bar. Both opened in late 2013 at the Global Telecom Tower.

For Hungry Hound, classic staples found in European gastropubs inspired the partners, but they would be made heavier in protein and meats. One of their signature dishes is the duck fat fries, topped with parmesan and garlic seasoning.

Next door, Niner Ichi Nana was designed with this question in mind: “what would Houdini’s treasure chest look like?” If you go inside the bar, one wall is curved to resemble a chest. You’ll also notice the logo is a monkey and a bird, two magician sidekicks. Even with an inventive cocktail list, the bartenders are trained to make bespoke drinks–whatever you’re in the mood to drink, they’ll make it for you.

Another group approached him to open a restaurant Rockwell and Erwan pitched the concept of Hatch 22 came about. Though he isn’t a fan of having breakfast for dinner, he wanted to develop an eatery with an evolving dining concept, where café comfort food can be served all day.

In the mornings, there is a Good Morning, Goodbye menu with a traditional breakfast offering then at 11 am, it transitions to a café menu for lunch and dinner. The craft cocktail menu uses a lot of Filipino fruits like guyabano and champoy. The bakery side features Filipino favorites with a twist, such as pan de month and Spanish breads dipped in condensed milk.

That group also approached him for Pink Panda, which opened on January 20th. He tells me that the concept of which he explains isn’t supposed to make sense. Rather than creating a fusion of Southeast Asian dishes, the menu is a reinvention of popular dishes, given that each country in the region uses the same base ingredients.

FRUSTRATION can also lead to ideas, he says. That’s how Manila Pop

Up arose, his spontaneous events with Mike Concepcion and Dee Jae Pa’este. Last year, the group organized eight events, one of which was “The Neighborhood” at the Rockwell Tent. The concept was to recreate what they believed was the perfect neighborhood and had a high-end flea market, with several bars and coffee houses in participation.

This year, he hopes to bring in a foreign restaurant for a three-day pop up event.

GOING FORWARD, Erwan believes his succeeding undertakings will arise in the similar pattern as the aforementioned four restaurants: being approached about a space opening up and tasked to develop a concept.

“There’s where my strength lies–creating a general concept and putting the right team together in terms of operations,” he says. “I’m not the one cooking, ever. I talk to the chefs and we do the menu development correctly. Even though I’m not a chef, they accept me as one of their own and accept my critiques and suggestions. The drinks I do personally myself and then I train the bartenders.”

In early May, another location of Hatch is set to open at the Fort. He’ll also be introducing three storefronts of Sprout, a grab-and-go place with readymade healthy options, such as salads, wraps and fruits. It’ll be the first FatKidInside branded food venture and mirror the blog with a lot of infographics and animation.

“I have one Filipino restaurant project–trying to elevate [the cuisine].

I’m creating the restaurant with the mindset that I’m attracting foreigners without sacrificing strong Filipino flavors,” he shares.

He’s tight-lipped about another concept he’s working on, but discloses that it will center on classic food and chicken.

Given everything Erwan is immersed in, he has a lot on his plate, so to speak. But he remains composed and speaks about his work with such enthusiasm that it actually doesn’t sound like work in the traditional sense.

He’s an unstoppable force with an active mind that is constantly thinking of innovative ways to shake up the food scene in Metro Manila.

The secrets to maintaining this balancing act? Scheduling everything, being passionate about work and selecting strategic partners.

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THE BEST RESTAURANTS I METRO-MANILA

SUNDAY BRUNCH AT impressions elebrity chef, Cyrille Soenen, has mastered a surprising blend of elegance, excellence and abundance in Impressions, which is located on the 3rd floor at Resorts World Manila. At most restaurants quality is more often than not sacrificed for quantity.

At Impressions, on the other hand, diners are invited to lavish in the best of both worlds.

Upon entering the restaurant for the first time, I could immediately sense excitement among patrons who eagerly anticipated being seated at tables they had likely reserved days, or even weeks, in advance. Reservations for Sunday brunch are especially recommended as tables fill up quickly during those hours.

The décor of the restaurant is modern, elegant and graceful, yet understated. I would soon discover that the food at Impressions is similarly modern, elegant and graceful, but unlike the rooms, its excellence is not subdued in any way.

For my first plate I enjoyed a rich, baked duck liver coupled with a fresh green salad, which invoked fond memories of early spring family vacations on the French Riviera. Très bon!

For my second plate, slices of crispy lechon, prime rib, and roast beef were all 5-star proteins—each lightly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Every bite brought a renewed sense of the skill, mastery, and ingenuity that Chef Soenen brings to his ingredients. He somehow achieves the surprising effect of elevating taste to new levels while preserving each element’s natural flavors.

On this particular night, two types of scallops were grilled while four were baked. There were also two versions of grilled prawns and six varieties of baked oysters. Every dish and collection of dishes embodied a playful dance between symmetry and contrast. Some of these were topped with melted cheese while others were smothered in a sinful sauce. However, regardless of

the shell I reached for there was a guaranteed a melt-in-my-mouth moment.

Every bite was better than the last and I couldn’t stop myself from indulging to my heart’s content. These particular plates evoked memories of the warm summer sun and particularly luxurious pairings, such as a soft-baked scallop with a truffle dipping sauce, made me feel as though my very soul had transposed into a rich, buttery heaven.

In addition to the wonderful food, the Impressions wait staff are attentive and gracious at every moment. Already carrying two plates and wish to bring a third to your table? Notify the nearest garçon who is always close at hand for your convenience. Excellent customer service is a well-established feature in the Philippines, but at Impressions it is impeccable.

Each new plate presented an adventure which allowed me to discover new tastes and old memories. I no longer need to look far to rediscover the long ago experiences of enjoying delicious French food while living in Manila. Impressions is about more than just serving exceptional food, it is also about the subtle experience of truly enjoying the act of eating. From fine quality meats to the best selection of sushi, to the superb service and incredible flavors, Chef Soenen has created a memorable experience that pleases the senses and touches the heart.

3rd Floor Maxims Hotel Newport Boulevard, Newport City Pasay 1309, Metro Manila, Philippines Open: Monday to Saturday 6 PM to 12 MN Sunday Brunch 11 AM to 3 PM / Sunday Dinner 6 PM to 10 PM For reservations call +63 (2) 908 8883 Photographed by Noel Ty

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THE BEST RESTAURANTS & BARS I METRO-MANILA

A Yuppie’s Watering Hole Pablo’s Pub and Restaurant brings a sophisticated twist to the Fort nightlife DISHES TO TRY PABLO’S SOUTH AMERICAN WINGS (PHP 350) If you’re looking for an appetizer to share with your friends, try these crispy, spicy chicken wings with sour cream dressing.

CHICHARON BULAKLAK (PHP 280) Deep-fried with the pub’s own seasoning mix— perfectly paired with a cocktail or glass of liquor.

Pablo’s Pub Half Pounder (Php 295) This half pounder is tailored after some of the best burger places around the world. A moist beef patty is topped with American cheddar, a secret burger sauce, lettuce & tomato inside a lightly toasted potato bun freshly made on the premises. Paprika fries are served on the side. Extra add-ons like bacon, blue cheese or foie gras are available but the burger is already juicy as it stands.

THE ESCOBAR (PHP 998) For those with a carnivorous appetite, this 400-gram US Angus rib eye steak is served with buttered vegetables and mashed potatoes. Bone marrow and foie gras can be added to bring in even more flavors. Good for sharing.

THE BIG HEIST (PHP 200) If you have a sweet tooth, try this large chocolate chip cookie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzled with chocolate syrup.

PABLO’S PUB AND RESTAURANT SECOND FLOOR, THE FORUM 7TH AVENUE CORNER FEDERACION DRIVE BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY, TAGUIG CITY OPEN MONDAY FRIDAY: 12:00 – 2:00 P.M., 5:00 P.M. – 1:00 A.M. SATURDAY FROM 5:00 P.M. – 1:00 A.M.

Located on the second floor of The Forum in Bonifacio Global City sits an establishment with glass exteriors topped with a black sign that reads PABLO’S in gold font.

Once you enter, the gastropub is dimly lit and decorated with leather booths, black paneled walls and wooden blinds. The bar offers an extensive selection of liquor, especially whiskey. Whiskey lockers are provided for customers who can’t finish their bottles in a single visit.

The back wall presents an unassuming bookshelf that hides the Glenlivet Boardroom, a private VIP room where about nine diners can enjoy a meal or up to 20 people can hang out for drinks. It can be rented for Php 20,000.

Pablo’s is the brainchild of a group of young professionals, who sought out to create a place where Pablo Escobar would hang out. The interior emanates an urban sleekness and feels like a ritzy gentleman’s club, yet doesn’t have an intimidating presence like the infamous namesake.

As for the menu, a handpicked selection of food comes at a reasonable price and will hit the spot at the end of a long day. The gastropub recently celebrated its six-month milestone by adding 11 new items, including The Cartel, a flank steak. On Tuesdays, the Pablo’s Pub Half Pounder is buy one, take one.

“Our philosophy is that you shouldn’t have to pay too much for comfort food,” says Miguel Escueta, one of Pablo’s co-owners.

Every weekday from 5 to 8 p.m. is Happy Hour, during which you can buy one, take one on several cocktails and have 20 percent off on some appetizers.

The crowd usually starts to pick up after 10 p.m. when the nightly DJ starts spinning. However, the music never gets too loud–you can still hear and have intimate conversations with your friends.

Pablo’s presents themed days of the week: 90’s Thursday, where nostalgic, throwback music of two decades ago is played; Friday Fresh, with the tagline “let’s all usher in the weekend together”; and Hype Saturdays.

Whether you come for a quiet dinner or a round of drinks, Pablo’s won’t disappoint. Let it be your neighborhood watering hole.

Written By Christina Oriel

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PLACES

THE PERFECT MARRIAGE YES, IT IS POSSIBLE. GOOD FOOD AND STUNNING VENUE HOOK UP TO BRING THE PERFECT UNION AT BLUE LEAF ho doesn’t love a good celebration.

A celebration is a great opportunity to honor a momentous occasion, have a good time, and meet new people. It is also during these events when we have, perhaps, the best times of our lives. But like many event organizers, wedding planners, and brides-to-be will tell you, planning an occasion demands patience and dedication. Not to mention the right connections to know people who know people who can help you turn those visions into reality. Like marriage, organizing an event is a union of both hard work and commitment. From the guest list, invitations, photographers, bands, motifs, dates, venues, food, all the way down to souvenirs, as much as possible every detail should be perfect — at least to one’s own personal preference.

Among the many factors to take into consideration, food and venue come as the most consequential. Choosing the perfect venue can be a daunting task: the convenient location, the ideal ambiance, the accommodating staff, the open-mindedness for personal preferences, etc.. And then of course, there’s the food— They say that in any event, food is one of the best subject for conversation…and perhaps one that guests will remember soon after they

leave. It’s definitely a make or break component in any gathering. So how do we marry good food and perfect location in one perfect unison without compromising the other? A perfect marriage, if you will—if there’s ever such a thing.

Well, there are.

Nestled amidst the often busy commercial districts are two tropical heavens of lush green garden landscapes with distinct water features. The Blue Leaf Events Pavilion in McKinley Hill in Fort Bonifacio,Taguig City and The Blue Leaf Filipinas in Belle Avenue in ASEANA City, Paranaque City offer the perfect marriage of a beautiful venue with a world class food selection. With their stunning pavilions and function rooms, guests can enjoy the architectural beauty of each of the reception areas with an assortment of high-quality food offered by some of the country’s most sough-after caterers.

Guests can choose from the veterans in the food industry like Hizon’s, Center Table, Josiah’s, Juan Carlo the Caterer, Via Mare, Albergus, or to the up-and-coming names like Cuillère, Chef Jessie, Mesclun, Bizu, K by Cunanan, The Red Chef and Events Specialist, and Tijoe. All equally capable of bringing the highest quality food experience, guest can be assured that there is such a thing as perfection in terms of food and venue.

Written By Mary May Portez

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RESTAURANTS I THE CHEF

Keeping it Simple with Chef Bruce Lim BORN AND RAISED IN SAN FRANCISCO AND A LIST OF WORK EXPERIENCES IN VARIOUS CITIES, THE FILIPINO-CHINESE CHEF FOUND HIS WAY BACK TO MANILA. BRUCE LIM SHARES HIS BALIKBAYAN STORY AND THE LESSONS HE LEARNED IN THE KITCHEN THAT MOLDED HIM INTO THE CHEF HE IS TODAY.

SOUND BITES WITH CHEF BRUCE LIM PERSONAL MANTRA I have one philosophy and it’s KISS: Keep it simple, stupid.

COOKING SPECIALTY Ox-tail sinigang – it has to be extremely sour with lots of gabi and mustasa.

MOST MEMORABLE MEAL IN MANILA I’m a carnivore at heart so one of my favorite meals was a steak at Fireplace at the Hyatt. It was prepared in a beautiful wood oven grill.

They do it very simply, just salt and pepper and a few vegetables.

MY “LAST SUPPER” WOULD BE… Ox-tail sinigang, with a side of foie gras and mango chutney; a Guinness from Ireland; really good rice, 5 cups of it; some Vietnam patis with chili; maybe a rib eye with bleu cheese and bacon, if I’m still hungry. And definitely a Coke.

ADVICE TO ASPIRING CHEFS Never stop learning. When you say ‘I’m the Big Dog and I know everything,’ that’s when you’re going to fail. If you admit you don’t know everything and you’re willing to learn, you’re always going to be on top.

’m sitting in what looks like a typical office space. Employees typing away in their cubicles. Fluorescent lights hitting us.

The smell of pan de sal coming from downstairs wafts through the air. Others in the room seem to be unfazed by the scent—it’s a regular occurrence, as the production lines churn out thousands of breads and baked goods daily.

Minutes later, Chef Bruce Lim, whom I’d been waiting for, greets me. He has a commanding presence, standing over six feet tall. Not an inch of hair can be found on his head (later he’d explain why he and most of the men who work with him are bald).

If you’ve watched the Asian Food Channel, where his shows Tablescapes and The Boss aired, his face and character are very familiar. Though, despite his fixture on television, he doesn’t want to be solely remembered as a ‘celebrity chef.’

He guides me to his office. The left side of the room reveals Bruce’s softer side: shelves of comic books and graphic novels, toy figurines, Coke bottles collected from all over the world and a bin of basketballs.

He’s wearing a San Francisco Giants t-shirt, an homage to his birth city. For someone born and raised in the United States, educated in London and experienced with working in kitchens in different cities, the Filipino-Chinese chef found his way back to Manila – though, he’ll admit that he’s still learning Tagalog.

Bruce is conversational and possesses a sarcastic sense of humor, so our meeting progresses seamlessly and never feels like a droning Q&A session.

He walks me through his beginnings in the kitchen. He was an adolescent, living away from his parents, when he realized that he needed to learn how to prepare meals for himself instead of relying on pre-packaged items and fast food.

He recalls watching his grandma cook and seeking her guidance on how to make dishes, such as adobo, which was one of his first attempts at cooking. After that experience, he confidently found the process of cooking simple enough to teach himself.

What arose as a hobby and means of survival became a career consideration by the time he graduated from high school, when he faced two options: go to culinary school or join the US Marines.

After extensive research of where to apply and support from his parents, he chose to enroll Le Cordon Bleu in London.

LESSONS FROM THE KITCHEN He admits that formal training was not as easy as he had anticipated–days began early and ended late. He was ready to throw the towel in and move back home, but a mentor gave him an inspirational talk that rein-

vigorated a spark.

During Bruce’s time in school, he held a number of jobs, one of which was under acclaimed chef Gordon Ramsay.

“It was fun and rough. I think that was [Gordon’s] way of initiation. He [broke] all the bad habits so you could start fresh and I really appreciate what he did and it made me into the chef I am today,” Bruce shares.

His leadership style is somewhat patterned after Ramsay’s. When employees begin with Bruce, he also gives them a nickname, though he does so with the intent of building camaraderie. Employees “earn back” their real names when they prove themselves.

“If you notice now, all my male cooks are bald. I got that from the Marine Corps – every jarhead is cut the same way to make them a band of brothers. That’s the same with us and they become one team,” he explains.

After finishing with a Superior Level certification in Cuisine and Pastry, Bruce moved to Manila to work at the Century Park Sheraton. He eventually migrated back to the United States to work at the Hyatt Regency and a restaurant called Fish Hopper in Monterey, Calif.

He then found an opportunity to be part of the banquet kitchen at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas before he made his way back to the Philippines once again.

In 2009, Bruce opened up his first Filipino restaurant, Chef ’s Table, in Bonifacio Global City.

“I wanted the dining room to melt with the kitchen…[where] the guests could ask questions. I didn’t want to keep secrets and that was my entire concept behind the restaurant,” he discloses. “I closed it down because it was a time when the area was just bare so I couldn’t handle it—not a lot of foot traffic and noise.”

As the Southeast Asian brand ambassador for Lee Kum Kee, he does a lot of product ideation. One of the things he developed was a beefy kaldereta filling that became so popular that a major fast food company requested him to supply it.

Using only two mixers, he and his team would finish three tons of flour a week and bake around the clock to fulfill the order. Today, he’s running a food commissary called Mise En Plus with roughly a hundred employees and a medium-sized factory space in Pasig, an opportunity he says “fell out of nowhere.”

“In doing something that I didn’t know, it brought me back to life because after I lost my restaurant…I felt so devastated because I couldn’t get my business to fly. It was a renewed life—I stopped, slowed down right now, I’m just enjoying it,” he reflects.

Even with his long list of accomplishments and work history, Bruce is just getting started.

“I want to see the commissary grow, open up another restaurant that’s only open for dinner…probably do another show. I really want to make an impact in the culinary industry in the Philippines – I think I have a lot to offer. Maybe I’ll teach somewhere too.”

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NIGHTLIFE I BEST BARS & CLUBS

Ring in the weekend at Hyve If you’re the type whose feet belongs on a dance floor and has enough stamina to be out until the sun rises, then Hyve is the place for you.

Located on the 8th floor of the W Global Center in Bonifacio Global City, Hyve is an upscale club and lounge that brings a metropolitan chic flair to Metro Manila nightlife. The main space is includes three bars, multiple VIP sections and one big dance floor in front of the DJ booth. It is spacious enough (the maximum capacity is 1,500) that even with a large crowd dancing the night away, you never feel like sardines in a can. Like any popular dance club, you’ll hear a wide-ranging mix of EDM, house and Top 40 hits.

On any given night, you’ll see waiters carrying champagne bottles with sparklers to tables – Hyve promotes high-end champagne, like Dom Perignon, Veuve Clicquot and Moet. At the VIP lounge behind the DJ booth, you’ll see these bottles as decorations on the walls. This section has several leather couches, each suitable for a party of 10, that can be rented for the night and comes with premium bottle service.

If you seek a more intimate experience away from the crowd, you and your friends can rent one of three private rooms that hold at most 20 people and has its own restroom.

For a convenient dinner before you party the night away or to satisfy your

post-clubbing appetite, Vyne, a boutique restaurant and gastropub, is also on the same floor. The interior has playful murals that bring an urban touch to the wooden décor. The patio area is lined with artificial turf and has royal purple colored seating for a more relaxed ambience. With a view of buildings in the area, the scene is reminiscent of a rooftop bar in New York.

Both Hyve and Vyne have attentive wait staff that ensures your requests are fulfilled promptly and your glasses are never empty.

So, when the next Friday approaches, where will you ring in the weekend?

8/F, W Global Center 9th Avenue cor. 30th Street Bonifacio Global City, Taguig Open Wednesday, Friday & Saturday from 10 p.m.-4 a.m.

Written by Christina M. Oriel / Images Courtesy of Hyve

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HEALTH I EXERCISE & FITNESS

w or l d m u ay t h ai t e am us a- m ak at i hroughout the world, societies have adopted sports as the crown jewel of entertainment. Athletic training, fitness, and competition provides individuals with an improved selfdiscipline, determination, confidence, and overall fitness and health. Whatever effect we hope sports provides to us, the most important thing is simply, exercise.

The most popular sports today, in terms of entertainment and fan following are basketball, football, soccer, and baseball. But in recent years, one particular sport has rapidly grown to be one of the most intriguing, highly anticipated, and watched sports—mixed martial arts or known by fans as simply, MMA. Now in the Philippines, you have a world class training facility at the World Muay Thai Team USA camp located in Makati City.

World Muay Thai Team USA-Makati aims to provide training to people who want to compete in sports not only as a form of entertainment, but also as a capsule for fitness and health, self-defense, preparation for real live competition, and lastly, a prospective source of livelihood.

World Team USA will teach you about creating new strengths, how to boost your confidence, relieve your stress, and help you reach your goals in fulfilling your dreams of having an amazing body.

In addition to this, the group showcases the talents and abilities of both local and foreign Filipino athletes in the world of sports. Tony Reyes, a living legend in MMA and someone who has trained with the likes of Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris, explains that the success of MMA and his gyms are because “Students get attached to the group and we become their psychiatrist and friend. Truly, it is an organization that builds relationships, discipline, and mental, physical strength...everyone is welcome to register and train quarterly, semi-annually, or yearly. This new venture has flexible agreements for customers by providing public and private lessons, focusing on what the customers want. Whether or not you would like to turn pro or simply just get in supreme shape, become fit, learn self defense, then this place is for you.”

PARTNERSHIP World Muay Thai Team-USA is collaborating with Team Goat Locker HMFIC, a fitness gym in Parang, Marikina City, which is owned and operated by a retired US Navy Chief Ferdie “Hepe” Munsayac. The gym is a thousand square meters of open ground with a full-size, detachable state of the art “cage” similar to the famous Octagon shown on UFC. “We set up this place in order to help those young professionals to achieve their call for wellness. However, the main reason why we are doing this business is to make a difference by giving back to the community—things we have learned in the US,” explains Munsayac. In addition to their world class facility, they have a scholarship program. The gym started with two scholars and has now grown to thirty-two.

The program is only offered to students who come from extremely difficult financial situations. The program provides scholars with daily transportation allowance, sports uniform, supplemental vitamins, healthcare, and free training. Fund-raising events are actively supported by Team Goat Locker. They host various activities to give help to the needy as part of their corporate social responsibility. As these two share common expertise in mixed martial arts such as boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Muay Thai, one can pronounce that they are leading the realm of modern sport.

FUTURE PLANS With the new partnership, a long-term plan for producing a weekly show that will reveal remarkable stories behind every successful fighter.

WORLD MUAY THAI TEAM USA-MAKATI 2008 YAGUE ST. BRGY. TEJEROS, MAKATI CITY, MAKATI, PHILIPPINES FACEBOOK.COM/WORLDMUAYTHAITEAMUSAMAKATI Written by Mary Perl Abucejo / Photographed by Noel Ty

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MUSIC & ARTS I FESTIVALS

M A LASI MBO A MYSTICAL EXPERIENCE IN NATURE Written / Photographed by Christina M. Oriel

You’re standing on a mountain overlooking one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Life-size art installations surround you as live jazz music plays in the background. When nature, art and music collide, it’s dreamy and enchanting.

Imagine experiencing this state for five days straight.

From February 27 to March 3, 2014, a few thousand guests gathered on the foothills of Mount Malasimbo in Puerto Galera for the fourth annual Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival organized by the D’Aboville Foundation and Volume Unit Entertainment. Local and international artists entertained the audience with reggae, jazz and folky tunes, while thirty Filipino artists were invited to showcase their work. There were no big mainstream names headlining the festival, but perhaps that is most telling about Malasimbo’s appeal. No grandiose productions were needed to draw a crowd of both foreigners and locals. Instead the atmosphere sold itself.

“It’s hard to put something superficial in that venue when it’s gorgeous. We’re just visitors to that mountain. So we’re just grateful to have the opportunity to utilize that mountain; make something of it. Malasimbo is a magical experience because there’s something happening there that has nothing to do with us: it’s the

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place. We are grateful to be able to express ourselves on it,” Miro Grgic, a Croatian-Australian musician who is one of the founders of the festival, remarked.

The festival is founded upon four pillars: music, art, indigenous culture and the environment. Spearheaded by a team of creative minds, the festival is not held solely to bring in and entertain visitors for a weekend, but to promote the beauty of Puerto Galera and Oriental Mindoro as a whole and leave a lasting impression.

THIS MUST BE THE PLACE Thirty-three years ago, Hubert D’Aboville, a French businessman, relocated to the Philippines and was brought to Puerto Galera by a friend. This first visit inspired Hubert to return frequently.

Hubert and his Filipina wife, Araceli, needed to find a place away from Manila where they could raise their future children. Years of searching around the Philippines for their dream spot were unsuccessful until 1992, their tenth wedding anniversary, when they asked a local of Puerto Galera if there were any vacant properties for sale.

The man brought them near where the property is today and Hubert walked around the lush vegetation. He then climbed a sampaloc (tamarind) tree and saw it overlooked the Puerto Galera bay.

“I asked the owner for the land title and I read it was 10 hectares and one square meter. So in thirty seconds the deal was done. I embraced my wife and said, this is for our 10 years and one day anniversary,” Hubert said, recalling the destined moment.

BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO MALASIMBO Though Malasimbo is a laid-back experience where anything goes, preparation is key especially if it’s your first time.

Keep a copy of the festival’s lineup Having the lineup will help you plan out your stay in Puerto Galera. You can spend the day touring the island and attend the festival at night or you can just spend the entire day at the venue, as there are various art, yoga and dance workshops before the nighttime performances.

Travel light Leave your valuables at the hotel. You don’t want to worry about and lug around a heavy bag while you’re trying to enjoy the music.

Don’t forget to bring cash You can load the money onto your festival wristband at the entrance. It’s a good way to monitor your spending throughout the weekend and not have to worry about pulling out your wallet every time you order a drink.

Lather up on insect repellant Even if you carefully cover up from head-to-toe, critters will still find a way to attack your flesh. Depending on how long you stay at the festival, it’s best to keep applying repellant every so often, as the average brand lasts about four hours.

Wear comfortable footwear It’s an easy, downhill walk getting to the grassy amphitheater. But after a long night of dancing and walking around, prepare yourself for a steep uphill trek back to the Jeepney station.

Set a meeting spot for you and your friends Cellphones can be unreliable; you can lose signal or run out of battery. Designating a spot to meet up at the end of the night (or wee hours of the morning) is helpful to ensure no one in your party gets left behind.

Try the pan de sal with kesong puti Freshly baked pan de sal with melted kesong puti (white cheese from a water buffalo) is hands down one of the best things the Balikbayan team ate during the festival. You can’t leave Malasimbo without consuming one or several!

Lastly, let go. Breathe, relax and savor as much as possible!

It’s hard to be high strung all weekend when you’re surrounded by such natural beauty and mellow music.

Check out the art installations, discover new music and network with other festivalgoers.

MALASIMBO COMES ALIVE In late 2010, Hubert was approached by Miro, the boyfriend of his daughter Olivia, about starting a music festival. Intrigued by the idea, Hubert began scouting venues around the municipality with no luck. At that point, he and Miro thought their dreams of such a festival would never become a reality.

“Then, I was walking around my property and as I was looking down below, I saw this amphitheater. I thought, ‘this is God given,’ ” Hubert recalled.

So began plans to prepare the land for this festival. Miro handled the selection of musical talent and logistics, while Olivia, a Filipina-French artist, reached out to other local artists to exhibit pieces. Unlike a typical art show, the artists are not confined to the walls of a gallery but are given the freedom to select which part of the foothills speaks to them and would be the best place to present their work.

By February 2011, the idea of the Malasimbo Festival came into fruition with 1,500 attendees, who were helpful in spreading the word for the subsequent years.

The D’Aboville Foundation engages in social responsibility projects with the Mangyan people, the natives of Oriental Mindoro, by donating festival proceeds to scholarships and electricity for families. A special area of the venue is devoted to highlighting the indigenous culture, by showing guests how Mangyans live and the intricate, hand-woven products they make as a livelihood.

“The Mangyans are the soul of this island. Without the Mangyans, the island of Mindoro would not be the same,” Hubert declared.

As the human creations of music and art find a temporary home in this verdant setting, the festival also raises awareness on the environment and sites that attract visitors to Puerto Galera. After the inaugural festival, the proceeds went to a reforestation project, resulting in 1,000 hard wood trees and 1,000 bamboo chutes being planted. This effort of giving back to the environment continues each year.

With the four pillars and the goal of eco-cultural tourism, the D’Aboville Foundation hopes to continue the festival for years to come.

“Instead of bringing the Filipino around the world, we want the world to come to Puerto Galera,” Hubert said.

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MUSIC I FESTIVALS

SURVIVING A MUSIC FESTIVAL Plan your transportation and accommodations ahead of time.

Arrange how you and your friends are getting to the venue and leave early, as it’ll get traffic closer the event start time. Hotels in the area may provide shuttle service if you don’t want to purchase a parking pass. Accommodations can sell out quickly, so it’s best to book your as soon as you buy your tickets. Rates can be cheaper way in advance.

Secure your wristband.

Put your wristband on tightly to prevent losing it – it’s perhaps the most valuable item you’ll have that weekend.

Stay hydrated!

Keep yourself refreshed in the heat. You wouldn’t want to pass out before one of the main acts.

Protect yourself from the sun.

The sun can be scorching during the day. Bring a hat, sunglasses and lots of sunscreen.

Bring baby wipes and hand sanitizer.

When nature calls, you have no choice but to use the portable toilets. You’ll be glad you brought something to clean yourself after that experience.

Live in the moment Sure, you want to capture photos and videos to help you reminisce about your weekend once it’s over, but at least put your smartphone and camera down for most of an act and simply enjoy the performance happening right in front of you.

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7 1 0 7 I n t e r n ational M u s i c F e s tival Written by Christina M. Oriel Photographed by Noel Ty

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in tune with the music festival scene, then youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re familiar with Coachella, Lollapalooza, SXSW, Bonnaroo and Glastonbury.

7107 International Music Festival, the first of its kind in the Philippines, aims to join the ranks of these highly anticipated annual events.

For the inaugural festival, tens of thousands flocked to Global Gateway Logistics City in Clark, Pampanga on Feb. 22 and 23, 2014. The main stage, decorated like a sun on the Filipino flag, welcomed international artists such as Red Hot Chili Peppers, Kendrick Lamar, Empire of the Sun and Kaskade. Up-and-coming local artists also drew crowds on the second stage. The two stages allowed the festival to accommodate a range of groups of different genres.

Given the successful turnout of guests from around the Philippines and even the world, impressive production and selection of talent, the country may very well become recognized as musical destination in the future.

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