June & July 2016

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

I s s u e 4 9 , Vo l u m e VI I JUNE & JULY 2016

ESSENCE OF PLACE

SOUL SEARCHING: BALAY SAN JOSE

discovery

ISABELA, STA. MARIA: THE STAR OF THE NORTH

ADVENTURE CAVE ESSENCE OFCALLAO PLACE

SOUL SEARCHING: WHATSAN TO JOSE PACK BALAY THE GREAT OUTDOORS

discovery

COVER

ISABELA, GUIDEBOOK STA. MARIA: THE PERFECT GETAWAY THE STAR OF THE NORTH

ADVENTURE

CALLAO CAVE

WHAT TO PACK

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

GUIDEBOOK

THE PERFECT GETAWAY

B A T A NEESS BATAN PORTFOLIO

BALIKBAYANS+FRANCHISING: THE BUSINESS OWNER

INSIGHTS & ANALYSIS retirement, more fun in the philippines

EXECUTIVE’S GAME CHANGERS DESK

RALPH SANTOS,DISRUPTING SANTOS AND THE FINTECH CASHLESSSPHERE SOCIETY BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

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CANYON WOODS

R E S I D E N T I A L

R E S O R T

- A Haven For Settlement

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SP E C I A L F E ATURE

C

anyon Woods Residential Resort, one of Tagaytay’s premier properties has always been the true definition of luxury living with a classic touch. Despite the interminable urbanization flourishing throughout the country, Canyon Woods preserves the old Tagaytay living while incorporating new finishes—creating a sanctuary everyone can settle into.

The residential resort has shaped the way people think of modern living. Flaunting an architectural balance of the old and new, Canyon Woods is the perfect place to spend life’s treasured moments. With its iconic log cabins, and a clubhouse, the homely experience is never out of reach.

With hundreds of entries around the world, Canyon Woods was nominated for the Facility of the Year Award (Independent Seniors Living) in the recently concluded 4th Eldercare Innovation Awards 2016 held in Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

Praised for state of the art amenities, hospitable staff, and the nurturing ambiance of the place, Canyon Woods is ideal for people looking for a retirement home that does not compromise comfort and class. Equipped with 24/7 roving security, it is one of the very few private residential resorts in Tagaytay.

The Philippines bagged the 16th spot in Forbes’ 20 Best Foreign Retirement Havens with special mention to Subic and Tagaytay.

Foreigners wishing to retire in the Philippines are particularly attracted to the cool climate that encapsulates Tagaytay anlong with the powerful, magnetic energy resonating from Taal Volcano.

Situated along Diokno Highway, Canyon Woods boasts direct access to South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) via Tanuan-Talisay Highway for stress-free driving in contrast to the original routes Sta. Rosa Exit and Emilio Aguinaldo Highway that are often experiencing heavy traffic. Its proximity to major thoroughfares means easy access to Manila where major business and commercial establishments are located.

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A refined ambience is complemented with lush, cultivated pine trees while a cozy clubhouse with a coffee shop designed by Filipino-American interior designer Rene Orosa greets guest with a warm aesthetic welcome.

Rising amidst surrounding greenery of the resort, Canyon Woods’ midrise building The Peak stands within the beautiful premises.

This 10-story, twin-tower condotel with 168 fully furnished hotel rooms is tailor-made to highlight the majestic Taal scenery.

Nestled in a lavish terrain, The Ridge is another condominium complex and retirement facility showing a country chaletstyle of architecture. It brings a surrounding close to nature for an unrivaled living experience.

Canyon Woods offers an escape away from the scene of the metro and there’s no perfect way to relax and unwind than to have a massage. The Elements Spa combines all traditional elements for complete rejuvenation of the body. Earth, water, fire and air all create a quintessential bond for one of a kind pampering experience.

OTHER AMENITIES AND FACILITIES 01. Function Rooms - 5 function rooms are named after the places around Batangas (TanauanTalisay, Taal, Lipa, Lemery and Laurel) and provide the perfect place for conferences, seminars, and group activities while overlooking the stellar view of Taal volcano 02. Fitness Gym - guests who live an active lifestyle can take advantage of Canyon Woods’ own fitness gym for free, making every stay in the residential resort worthwhile 03. Mini Theater - caters both family and friends and can seat 49 guests, this theater is up to date with the latest movies 04. Chapel - the “Chapel of the Most Sacred Name of the Child Jesus” is the ideal place to embrace God’s presence. Administering

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06.

07.

08.

09.

10.

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a range of ministries and activities, the lush green setting of the chapel is also ideal for wedding celebrations Fun Center - includes different facilities like a children’s playhouse, bowling area, billiard room, air hockey, ping-pong table and a number of board games Swimming Pools - indulge in the outdoor pool while bonding with nature or take a relaxing dip in theJacuzzi Clinic Outdoor Pavilion Basketball court Tennis court 9-hole mountainous golf course - positioned within deep ravines and conforms to the USGA specifications

ARTIST PERSPECTIVE

CANYON WOODS RESIDENCES Canyon Estates’ latest project, Canyon Woods Residences is a cultivating ground for investors especially those living abroad to own a piece of Tagaytay without the stress. Conforming to the standards of Canyon Woods, this condotel sports several facilities and amenities for an unmatched comfort.

Set in one of the country’s top destinations, Canyon Woods Residences is a perfect investment for retirees to build their dream house in Tagaytay.

Surrounded by a rich foliage harmonized with the cool climate of Tagaytay, all rooms enjoy a prestige view of the stunning Taal scenery.

Canyon Woods Residences offers an impeccable blend of the past and present that bring a new kind of convenience to private owners. Settling in a new place can be risky, but with the right amenities and benefits, having a sense of comfort, class, and security is now possible with Canyon Woods Residences.

For more information on Canyon Woods, visit www.canyonwoods.com For more information on Canyon Woods Residences, email property@g2globalinc.com BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

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CANYON COV E H O T E L

&

S P A

- Absolute Leisure in a Tropical Paradise

T

ucked inside one of Philippines’ premier summer destinations, Canyon Cove Hotel and Spa is the perfect blend of tropical living with a splash of European majesty. A prime getaway for those who want to get drenched under the sun and enjoy the comfort of luxury living, Canyon Cove is the ideal summer spot for everyone.

Situated along the shores of Nasugbu, Batangas, Canyon Cove boasts a stunning beachfront with white, powdery sand and crystal clear waters for the ultimate beach experience.

Canyon Cove’s private beach is also the longest in Batangas, with its own breakwater that manages underwater current for safe swimming.

Canyon Cove’s 217 fully-furnished Mediterranean-inspired rooms are clear representations of relaxation with sophistication. With enough capacity to accommodate the whole family, all

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rooms exude a balance of earth with its warm colors for a relaxing vibe while also providing a pristine view of the West Philippine Sea. Guests can choose from Suite Room, Deluxe Room, Executive Room and Superior Room that ranges from 40 to 86 square meters.

A PLETHORA OF AMENITIES Canyon Cove Hotel and Spa helps in protecting corals from illegal fishing as it believes that recreation shouldn’t

sacrifice earth preservation. Guests can take a refreshing bath in the resort’s pool, which is the largest in Nasugbu.

Water activities come in different forms to satisfy thrill seekers like jet skiing, scuba diving, kayaking, cliff diving, banana boat, pedal boat, and island hopping.

Highlighted by its captivating ambience, Canyon Cove is the ideal place for special celebrations like weddings and other gatherings. A Grand Ballroom

SP E C I A L F E ATURE

ARTIST PERSPECTIVE

ARTIST PERSPECTIVE

that can house 800 people for big events and an Executive Dining Hall for sumptuous feasting while enjoying a panoramic view of the sea. An opulent meal awaits guests at the resort’s inhouse restaurant, Island Café for a memorable dining extravaganza.

Canyon Cove’s newest addition, Beachfront Open Lots is targeted for potential retirees especially those who want to live beside the beach. With 24/7 security, privacy tops among all as Beachfront Open Lots is a private villa with all unit owners having an exclusive access to Canyon Cove Hotel and Spa and Canyon Cove Oceana. Several amenities include solar-powered lights, generators, and an elevated terrain for an astonishing view of the West Philippine Sea.

CANYON COVE OCEANA Exemplary living by the beach does not end at Canyon Cove Hotel and Spa and Beachfront Open Lots, with its newest expansion: Canyon Cove Oceana brings its guests closer to serenity.

Canyon Cove Oceana is set to rise with three towers of condotel units. It is a new addition to Batangas’ wide array of travel spots encapsulating the beauty of Canyon Cove while adding its own flavor. Investors can take advantage of the location because of its proximity to the beachfront, perfect for those people looking for a sweet escapade.

Oceana will have world class amenities that will compete with the Philippines’ top swimming pools. It will aim to be the biggest swimming pool in the country with adult section and kids section.

Oceana will also have more restaurants and the addition of the lighthouse beach front will surely add the finishing touches to Canyon Cove Hotel and Spa.

Canyon Cove Hotel and Spa, Canyon Cove Beachfront Open Lots, and Canyon Cove Oceana are the new faces of modern convenience, courtesy of a tropical comfort.

FACILITIES AND AMENITIES 01. 3 additional swimming pools – a lounge pool, kiddie pool with slides and a modern wave pool ideal for surfing 02. 3 new restaurants 03. Entertainment Complex 04. Spa Complex 05. Beachfront Center - designed to compete with existing wedding facilities in Nasugbu, Batangas to make beach weddings more memorable 06. Lighthouse - a new addition to Batangas’ must-see tourist attractions, this is one of the highlights of Canyon Cove Oceana

For more information on Canyon Cove Hotel & Spa, visit www.canyoncove.com.ph For more information on Canyon Cove Oceana, email property@g2globalinc.com BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

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GILMORE TOWER

– A Sure-Fire Real Estate Investment

I

t is often cumbersome to find an affordable investment opportunity like a place to live near school or office.

Thousands of condominiums are scattered all over Metro Manila but not all are created equal. Gilmore Tower in New Manila, Quezon City offers a prestigious piece of urban living without sacrificing the budget.

EVERYTHING AT REACH Gilmore Tower is located near public transportations like MRT and LRT Gilmore Station (Purple Line).

Unit owners will have easy access to schools like St. Paul University Quezon City, Xavier School and De La Salle University Greenhills.

Quality health care is within reach as Gilmore Tower is situated close to St. Luke’s Medical Center Manila, The Medical City, and Cardinal Santos Medical Center. Leisure is in the palm of everyone’s hands with shopping malls like Robinson’s Magnolia, Greenhills Shopping Center and Araneta Center.

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SP E C I A L F E ATURE

FULL AMENITIES 01. Lap Swimming Pool 02. Aroma Therapy Garden 03. Jogging Path 04. Function Rooms 05. Spa 06. Gym 07. Play Area 08. Day Care SECURITY AND SERVICES 01. Four high-speed, interior finished passenger elevators 02. One interior finished service elevator 03. Closed-circuit television (CCTV) monitoring for selected areas 04. 24 hour security command center 05. Mail room 06. Water tank at the roof deck

S T.

ARTIST PERSPECTIVE

GO

PROPOSED GILMORE TOWER

DO

MIN

set; together with appliances ranging from 36-inch television set, refrigerator, air-condition unit/s, as well as lights and curtains. Other features include pre-fabricated kitchen cabinet system, stainless steel kitchen sink, exhaust duct system, solid surface lavatory countertop, provision for hot and cold water supply lines, provision for cable TV lines and one telephone line per unit.

A PERFECT PRICE Considering the ideal location of Gilmore Tower in the developing New Manila, it offers the most competitive price range in the area.

All units will be fully-furnshed perfectly for retirees upon turn over by 3rd quarter of 2016.

N.

STATE OF THE ART BUILDING What separates Gilmore Tower among other high-rise condominiums is its space, reducing congestion for easy living. Fullyfurnished 450 residential units make up the tower and are strategically constructed to provide comfort for the owners. An open landscape awaits unit owners for a positive and invigorating vibe.

Gilmore Tower’s residential units are crafted with sheer style and sophistication. All units are bi-level with the bedroom above the living and dining rooms, giving a sense of space and solitude. Each unit comes with a complete bedroom set with a built-in closet.

Cozy living brews at the ground floor with a dining room

GILMORE AVENUE

ORTIGAS AVENUE

For more information on availabilities or reservations, visit us at G2 Global Gilmore Tower located at No. 2 Gilmore Avenue corner N. Domingo, Quezon City or contact us at (+63) 908-812-3890 / (+63) 917-797-5283 / (+63) 2-531-5670 BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

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did you know?

Unequal economic development National GDP per capita was about $2,700 in 2014. Below is a breakdown of 17 regions’ GDP per capita that year. more than $1,000

manila

less than $1,000

Major sources of remittances in 2015 Cash sent home by Filipino workers around the globe accounts for about 10% of the economy

Saudi arabia u.a.e

$2.7 B $1.8 B

u.k.

$1.4 B

singapore

$1.4 B

top five export countries As of February 2016, Japan is still the Philippines’ top trading partner, having surpassed the U.S. in 2010 21.8%

Japan

17.2%

U.S. Hong kong

9.8% 9.1%

China singapore

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6.7%

SOURCE: PHILIPPINE STATISTICS AUTHORITY AND BANGKO SENTRAL NG PILIPINAS

$10.1 B

u.s

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FE ATURES June & July 2016 I. KEEPING A JOURNAL THE PUBLISHER’S NOTE on page 20.

A THE FORECAST “If Mayor Duterte can transform Davao from being the murderous, drug infested gangster city it used to be into an orderly, clean mini-Singapore, then can President Duterte change the Philippines into Singapore?”

More on page 30...

B INSIGHTS & ANALYSIS Balikbayans + Franchising: Business Owner “For overseas Filipinos who have spent a good deal of their professional life outside the Philippines and have the burning desire to own a business back home, its time to take the giant leap of faith towards financial independence and the elusive quality of life.”

More on page 36...

C RETIREMENT Retirement, More Fun in the Philippines “The cost of living in the Philippines is with no doubt cheaper relative to many places in the world. This is the perfect place if you want your money to go a lot further. Most foreigners live comfortably in the Philippines for about $800 to $1,200 a month and that is already a pretty great deal of leisure and luxury.”

More on page 40...

46 S C OPE 01 GREAT ESCAPES Wellness Visionary: Cathy Turvill, Founder & Co-Owner of Nurture Wellness Village. On page 72.

02 HOTELS & RESORTS (A) A Woman of Class, Tricia S. Sarabia On page 74 (B) Hotel Celeste: City Living Redefined. On page 76.

D

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03 AROUND THE TOWN Celebrating Priscilla Hunt.

On page 78.

05 TOURISM (A) Chamonix Travel & Tours.

On page 86.

(B) The Woman Behind Chamonix.

On page 88.

04 WINE & DINE Madrid Fusion. On page 96.

06 EVENTS Fiesta in America. On page 82.

07 AMAZING PLACES (A) Enchanted Kingdom: Find the Magic Within. On page 92.

08 FASHION (A) Summer Essentials. On page 98.

(B) Summer 2016: Manila Fashion Trends. On page 100.

BUSINESS OUTLOOK Digital Present: The Power of Open Platform “The significance of social media in the country is almost at par with its ability to draw tourist—let alone investments.

Considering how 87% of its population have mobile phone ownership2, the market reach of any mobile publicity reaches more than half of 101.47 million3 Filipinos; and with 55% of them owning a smart phone2, the media interest is almost instantaneous as determining whether a product is effectively influencing a consumer’s buying decision.”

More on page 42...

E FROM THE EXECUTIVE’S DESK | GAME CHANGERS How Ralph Santos and VMoney are disrupting the financial tech sphere.

“With VMoney’s digital platform, the roadmap to weaning the country off physical cash is systematically being laid out, but it’s going to take a collective effort from the government, businesses, and individuals, Santos emphasizes.”

More on page 46...

S U B S C R I B E T O D A Y 6 I S S U E S / 1 Y E A R F O R O N LY $ 3 0 Available nationwide at all major bookstores / selected restaurants & ca fes / inside hotel rooms and at Duty Free Philippines. Also available at special events and subscriptions throughout the world.

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TR AV EL June & July 2016

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A ESSENCE OF PLACE Soul Searching: Balay San Jose “Situated on undulated hills and facing green farms and pastures, it is the best place to gaze upon the might and grandeur of the Sierra Madre mountain range and wonder in awe at how lovingly the Lord protects his people.”

More on page 58...

B DISCOVERY Isabela: The Star of the North “Visualize yourself waking up to a remarkable view of vast farmland, the sound of chirping birds, and the sun on your face.

The air is clean and crisp. The scent of grass and delicious crops occasionally carried by the breeze bring a whiff of undeniable freshness.”

More on page 52...

C ADVENTURE Callao Cave “187 steps on the mountainside to the cave entrance and you will discover a series of seven exotic and mysterious chambers, including the Divine Room which has been transformed into a church.”

More on page 60...

D EXPLORER Breathtaking Batanes “The homeland of the Ivatans is the Philippines’ most coveted travel destination.

Featuring captivating landscapes and unique insular culture, Batanes’ phenomenal rarity will fill your wanderlust to the brim.”

More on page 62...

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E WHAT TO PACK The Great Outdoors “From packing the right essentials to leaving the proper footprints, we sorted out the indispensable from the optional to help you prepare for that quintessential outdoor adventure.”

More on page 68...

F

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GUIDEBOOK The Perfect Getaway “In the modern world where we rely on our smartphones for almost everything, creating your dream holiday is just one touch away.”

More on page 70...

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PUBLISHER & CEO PRESIDENT & CO-PUBLISHER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Vice President for Sales Vice President for Marketing and Special Events, Philippines

Roger L. Oriel Cora M. Oriel Raphael John C. Oriel Sharon Ann Bathan-San Pedro Vince F. Samson

managing editor

MARY MAY PORTEZ

ASSOCIATE editor

CHRISTINA ORIEL

WRITERS Advertising Executives

CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER senior Multimedia Developer Multimedia Developers LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS OFFICE Manager

CHARISSE NICOLE TRINIDAD, IAN KELLY JAMOTILLO, Yolanda Core Pastrana Kimberly delos Santos, GREG TRINIDAD, ROCELLE ANABEZA, KATrina DELA CRUZ, jazmine laboriante, KARL TANALGO

Issue 49 / volume viI ON THE COVER Nandi Hills, Basco, Batanes, The Northernmost Province in the Philippines.

Photographer: Potpot Pinili

NOEL TY KENNO SAMULDE godwin gasacao EUGENE DE GUZMAN ALLANA SANTOS potpot pinili David Miro Are, potpot pinili, CARLO Delantar, Joe Cobilla kristine tan

the asian journal publications, inc philippines headquarters 2/F D&E FORT PALM SPRING CONDOMINIUM, 3OTH STREET CORNER 1ST AVENUE, BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY, Taguig City Telephone. (+632) 856-1661 Email: info@asianjournalinc.com

Accountant

Gemma C. Fabro

ADMIN & finance officer

Geralou Sagun

Online Presence:

Arthur Sibulangcao, ROLANDo Manese

Facebook.com/BalikbayanMagazine

MELISSA G. REYNOSO

INSTAGRAM.COM/BALIKBAYANMAG

Circulation ManagerS intern

ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS, INCORPORATED PUBLISHER & CEO PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT FOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Roger L. Oriel Cora M. Oriel RAPHAEL JOHN C. ORIEL

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Elizabeth Hilario Sison

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

Monette Adeva Maglaya

VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING managing editor

CHRISTINA M. ORIEl Robert Macabagdal

VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Joseph Peralta

editor-in-chief northern california orange county & the inland empire editor-in-chief philippines

Twitter.com/BalikbayanMag YOUTUBE.COM/BALIKBAYAN MAGAZINE TWITTER.COM/ASIANJOURNAL Facebook.com/ASIANJOURNALPUBLICATIONS Tablet version available at: iTunes.apple.com | Search: Asian Journal PLAY.GOOGLE.COM | SEARCH: ASIAN JOURNAL For subscriptions, back issues, and other circulation concerns please contact us at info@asianjournalinc.com

Ivy Manalang

VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER LAS VEGAS

executive editor usa new york & new jersey

BalikbayanMagazine.com

US OFFICES Los Angeles 1210 S. Brand Blvd.

Glendale, CA 91204 Telephone (818) 502-0651 San Francisco 1001 Bayhill drive suite 200

momar visaya

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Las Vegas

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Telephone (702) 792–6678 New York 133-30 32nd. Avenue

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage of retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the Publisher. Asian Journal Publications, Inc. regrets that no responsibility can be accepted for unsolicited material, which will be returned only if stamped, addressed envelope is enclosed.

Printed in the Philippines. Distributed in the Philippines for newly arrived balikbayans at Duty Free Philippines, as well as at select hotel rooms, resorts, restaurants and cafes, major bookstores and magazine distributors. Circulated at special events and through subscription throughout the world.

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Flushing, New York 11354 Telephone (212) 655–5426 New Jersey 449 Hoboken ave., jersey city, nj 07306 Telephone (212) 655–5426

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KEEPING A JOURNAL

Publisher’s Note

READ THE FINE PRINT

L

ike a great many of you, I have been reading, watching, listening, and of course, checking Facebook for the latest news and opinions about the elections in the Philippines. This election m a r k s our great nation’s first election in the social media era. Universal McCann, one of the largest advertising agencies, proclaimed that the Philippines is indeed the social media capital of the World.

And this is all proven by the country’s 41 million tweets in 24 hours last year. Today, there are almost 40 million Filipinos on Facebook—nearly half the population of the Philippines. And we all know what this means—that certain information can instantly go viral through our own personal and private networks. And in the Philippines, information on the elections spread like rapid fire.

But there are consequences.

One of the most unfortunate things with social media is that an incredible amount of vitriol and misinformation can float on the internet and as a result of this, it can be damaging, influential, and rather alarming. If I see a status update or wall post that has over thousands (even just a few hundred) of comments, likes, and/or shares, I can’t help but wonder, do people really believe the information at hand?

Cognitively speaking, it is incredibly fascinating to say the least. Even I don’t know what is true or false at times—that is why it is important to always check the source—read the fine print.

During the weeks leading up to the election, I read news articles and wall posts about friends and family unfriending each other on Facebook because of differing political opinions. Us Filipinos, we take our politics quite seriously and unfortunately it has lead to political violence—ranked one of the worst in the World. For many of us, our thoughts and opinions are shaped by our environment—our close friends, family, and our educational attainment.

The months and weeks leading up to the May 9 election day, many of my readers, clients, partners, friends, and family were asking me who I wanted for President and Vice President and if the Asian Journal was going to publicly endorse any candidates—and this is not just for the Philippine elections, but also for the upcoming November elections in America. I believe it is critical for people to

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be bold and take a stance especially if they staunchly believe in certain viewpoints.

However, with regards to politics, for news media to endorse a political party or candidate is irresponsible and misguided.

The role of news media is to report on the facts—nothing more, nothing less. For each news article, it is vital for journalists to provide multiple sources when reporting the news. Regardless, it can always turn out to be a game of he said, she said—the credibility of each source. Providing all the facts should equip readers with the ability to formulate sound judgments and opinions. This is precisely why we take our role with providing information to the Filipino-American and Global Balikbayan community very seriously because frankly put, a newspaper—the news, in its purest form is the backbone of democracy—it is ground zero for spreading awareness and actionable knowledge.

Because of the influence and role of social media in the recent Presidential Elections, I began reading about the affects of Facebook on mental health and well-being. According to new research from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, one of the top universities in the World, social media addiction is real and affecting young adults much more than previously thought. The more time young adults use social media, the more likely they are to be depressed. Social media sites such as Facebook could be fueling internet addiction, a proposed

psychiatric condition closely associated with depression. Lead author of the study, Lui yi Lin, writes that “Exposure to highly idealized representations of peers on social media elicits feelings of envy and the distorted belief that others lead happier, more successful lives, and found that engaging in activities of little meaning on social media may give a feeling of ‘time wasted’ which negatively influences mood…Spending more time on social media may increase the risk of exposure to cyber-bullying or other similar negative interactions, which can cause feelings of depression.”

However, I wonder, isn’t a more connected society a better society? In a recent dinner party with family and friends, there was a point during the dinner when everyone was on their smartphones. With this sight, it dawned on me, do we own our phones or do our phones own us? We can do almost everything from the click of a button— check messages, send money, book flights and hotels, to even purchasing real estate.

And perhaps one day, we’ll be able to click vote for our next world leaders.

Regardless of what you may think, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Google+, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel.

Roger L. Oriel

Chief Executive Officer & Publisher Asian Journal Media Group

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T HE F O R ECAST

LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL, BUT FOR EVERYONE WRITER

Raphael John C. Oriel

Kenno Samulde & Melissa Reynoso

ILLUSTRATORS

OVER S EA S FILIPINO S ’ C A S H REMITTAN C E S (in $ million) 2,250

The Philippine economy continues to appreciate a tremendous period of incredible growth as the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry further expands and the consistent influx of money from overseas workers and balikbayans ignite spending resulting in infrastructure development nationwide. With sustained economic growth since 2014, the country is growing faster and more rapidly than many of its Southeast Asian neighbors, including China—most recently surpassing the giant economy in the 1st Quarter of 2016. The country is expected to grow at least 6% all the way until the end of this decade. Despite all of this growth, the Philippines faces many challenges in the months and years ahead, namely ensuring that economic growth is sustained, inclusive, and dispersed throughout each province and to its people—not just for the upper echelon of the wealthy elite.

Despite those challenges, the short and long-term outlook for the country will be sustained as a result of strong fundamentals—the population’s strong command of the English language versus any other country in the World, a now stable government, jobs generated by the BPO industry and government spending, along with the steady influx of overseas remittance which provides private consumer consumption for all industries.

2016 is undoubtedly a very critical year for the Philippines to sustain the economic growth seen in the past few years, especially with the change in government with newly elected President Rodrigo Duterte. However, the change in the nation’s leadership is expected to bring in new and fresh solutions for not only continuing, but fully igniting the economic potential and might of the Philippines. The

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March 2015

april

may

june

july

2,227

2,253

aug.

sept.

oct.

nov.

dec.

jan.

2016

feb.

2,470

2,390 2,147

2,000

2,234

March

2,425

2,164

2,126

2,022

1,994

2,110

1,871

1,750

1,500

6,558 6,282

4.4%

Contribution by workers

(January-March 2016)

Land-Based Workers:

$5.1 billion sea-Based Workers:

2015

2016 january to march

$1.4 billion Source: Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas

new president is fortunate to inherit this current state of the Philippine economy—a full 360 degrees of what he had to deal with when he first took office in Davao. Assuming President Duterte will steer the country responsibly with the way he has profoundly governed Davao, then perhaps all those projections by global economists that the Philippines will be a $1 trillion economy in 2030 or even be the next Singapore much sooner than anticipated, will be realized. It is still rather cloudy as to what can be anticipated with a Duterte administration and how different it will be from the Presidency of Benigno Aquino since only Davao can provide us a glimpse of what a society governed

by Duterte is like. However, analyzing those that currently live in it, it is clear that they fervently adore, trust, believe, and follow Duterte. Afterall, Duterte was elected in a landslide.

TIME FOR CHANGE With the election of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte as the next President of the

Philippines, it is clear that citizens have finally reached their boiling point with the status quo. Imagine constantly seeing newspaper headlines of international events and the growing economy.

Imagine how it must feel to commute 3 hours each way to work or home and only be paid just enough so that you and your family don’t starve. Or better yet, as balikbayans, imagine having to move overseas, leaving your family behind because you can’t find a job and when you return, your wife or husband, and your kids feel like strangers. Or imagine that you’re walking in Makati and your bag was snatched or you get in a taxi and don’t feel safe. Finally, imagine that no matter how hard you work, you feel hopeless because there is a clear economic divide between the haves and the have-nots, between the connected and the disconnected. Imagine all of that, and you can fully understand why Rodrigo Duterte was elected as the next President.

During the administration of President Benigno Aquino, the Philippines, despite

Th e Bu d g e t e m p o w e r s citizens to decide where their taxes go

car

Allocations for the Bottom-Up Budgeting program have been increased to support civil society groups working with local government units to address the causes of poverty in their communities. About P24.7 billion was set aside to fund 14,324 projects in 1,514 cities and municipilaties.

region II

587 P1.15 b

891 P1.40 b

1, 166 P1.9 B

REGION I

region III

1,342 P1.95 b

ncr region iv-a

182 P331.5 M

1, 086 P1.99 B

REGION V

1,473 P21.b

region iv-B

700 P1.1 b region VII i

region VI

nIr

641 P1.1 b

region VII

776 P1.5 b

844 P1.8 b

region xi region iX

583 P916.5 M

656 P1.16 b C ARAGA

region X

800 P1.63 b

region x II

1, 105 P2.25 b

782 P1.22 b

710 P106 b T o t a l Nu m b e r o f p r o j e c t s tota l b u d g e t

Note: Tentatively, ARMM will receive no BUB allocation for 2016 in anticipation of the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law.

Illustration By M e l i ss a R e y n o s o

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PHI LI PPI N E S GR OWS FA S TER T H A N CH I N A , A S EA N 5

7.0%

6.8%

6.7 %

*President Rodrigo Duterte’s 8-point Economic Agenda as disclosed by incoming Department of Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez

VIETNAM

INDONESIA

being largely deemed successful, failed to alleviate poverty, which remains the same at 25%—almost ¼ of the country’s population lives at or below the poverty line. Despite reaching the landmark figure of 5 million tourist visitors in 2015, inclusive economic growth was not experienced throughout the country. Prior to President Aquino, for many years, the Philippines was known as the “Sick man of Asia,” being a chronic underachiever mired by rampant government corruption, enormous lack of vision, and sound policymaking.

With the Aquino administration, the Philippines undertook the path of more successful economies—encouraging foreign direct investment, investing on infrastructure, and boosting domestic consumption— all the while keeping national debt down. For the past 6 years, growth has been surprisingly healthy—persistently the best among regional, bigger counterparts. Today, the Philippines leads the world in handling the world’s complaints—the country now boasts of almost a million call center jobs—and the industry keeps expanding. Yet, this means absolutely nothing to the rural areas of the Philippines.

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MALAYSIA

2016 1.8%

2015 1.8%

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

3.2% CHINA

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

PHILIPPINES

2.8%

4.2%

4.5%

5.0%

01. Continue and maintain the current macroeconomic policies. Reforms in tax revenue collection efforts will be complemented by reforms within the bureaucracy of tax collecting agencies.

4.9%

5.5%

6.5%

6.9 %

AGENDA

THAILAND SINGAPORE

The nation of more than 100 million Filipinos rejected the political elite and said they want change. The millions of Filipinos who are saying “what economic growth?” have voiced their selection— finally saying enough is enough of government corruption and crime. Ask anyone in the Philippines what they think of a Duterte Government and they will undoubtedly use the words, change. Yes, President Duterte will change the country, but he certainly won’t hinder the positive direction of the economy, saying that he will hire the country’s foremost economic experts and place them in charge. And if President Duterte stays true to his word on crime and corruption, then how can installing discipline, rule, and order ever be a hindrance to the economy—if anything, it should boost foreign and local investment further.

Just think, if the country is considered safer, cleaner, and orderly, then should we not anticipate an increase in tourism as well? If Mayor Duterte can transform Davao from being the murderous, drug infested gangster city it used to be into an orderly, clean mini-Singapore, then can President Duterte change the Philippines into Singapore?

02. Accelerate spending on infrastructure by addressing major bottlenecks, and maintain the target of setting aside 5% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) to infrastructure spending.

03. Ensure attractiveness of the Philippines to foreign investors, and enhancing competitiveness in doing business in the country.

This also means reducing crime to attract investors, and increase security of businessmen and consumers.

04. Provide support services to small farmers to increase productivity and improve market access.

Provide irrigation and better support services to farmers.

Promote tourism in the rural areas.

05. Address bottlenecks in our land administration and management system.

06. Strengthen basic education system, and provide scholarships for tertiary education, which are relevant to private employers’ needs.

07. Improve tax system by indexing tax collection to inflation rate, “to enable those who earn a little to have more in their pockets.”

08. Expand and improve implementation of the conditional cash transfer (CCT) program.

4.9%

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INSIG H T S & ANALYSIS

BALIKBAYANS + FRANCHISING

BUSINESS OWNER WRITER

Prof. Enrique Soriano

The Philippines emerged as the fastest growing economy among 11 selected Asian economies in Asia in the first quarter of this year, outperforming China (6.7%). Adding spice to the resilient economy is the ASEAN Economic Integration where Philippine companies have taken the big leap to go global. To sustain the optimism, the presumptive President Rody Duterte will now play a much bigger role in key areas related to governance and the promise of a better quality of life for the majority of the Filipinos.

set in motion 30 years earlier, but rather on their needs and desires this year or this month. If they need the money or if they simply want more challenge and social interaction, they may take a job or start a business.“ Personally, as an international business consultant, from then on up until 2016, I’m pretty confident that a lot of the non-traditional retirements we’re seeing have less to do with a want and more to do with a need. In other words, these people need to make money — even though they don’t necessarily want to continue working.

BABY BOOMERS ARE STARTING THEIR OWN BUSINESSES The Kauffman Foundation, in its report a few years back titled, “The Coming Entrepreneurship Boom,” stated that the highest rate of entrepreneurial activity belonged to the 55-64 age group. The report goes on to state that the average age of technology company founders in the United States is a surprisingly high 39 with twice as many over age 50 as under age 25.

But, they’re not all starting technology companies. Some of them are buying franchises.

THE FRANCHISE WAY Buying into a proven business concept (which is what franchising offers) could be the way to go for those that have found themselves out of a job and close to retirement age. And, while franchise ownership has its risks, it has numerous advantages, too:

WHY GO FRANCHISING? While some Filipino entrepreneurs have decided to expand their businesses by putting up company-owned stores, more and more Filipinos have found that the best way for a business to expand is by cloning itself -- through franchising via the local, regional and international route. And with the success of many firms in franchising their brands, it is no surprise that even bigger organizations are jumping into the bandwagon and now venturing into franchising to further expand their business.

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WORKING AFTER RETIREMENT: LONGING FOR QUALITY OF LIFE! In 2005, CEO and Founder of Small Business Trends, Anita Campbell, wrote about the changing face of retirement: “In the US, it used to be that someone reached the magic retirement age of 65 and stopped working. Period! Now many more people ‘retire’ earlier, but their retirements are not traditional anymore. Retirees take jobs from time to time, and they even start and continue their own businesses during their ‘retirements.’ Their state of employment is based not on some grand career plan

01.

02.

03.

04.

05.

06.

07.

Proven concept Proprietary business systems Extensive training Grand opening assistance Powerful technology Buying Power Branding

And, let’s not forget speed. In an online report released by smallbiztrends.com, people that are nearing retirement age (who want to go into business for themselves) need to be able to open up their new businesses quickly. In most cases, new franchise owners can be up and running quickly.

In the Philippines, even with all the ups and downs, the last 10 years have made a big difference in the way Filipinos

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handle their businesses.

They’re more open to trying new things, new markets. They’re more willing to take a chance in dreaming of bigger and more successful ventures. And they’re no longer afraid of taking on the world head on.

Although franchises are not failure-proof, entrepreneurs favor the odds of better return on investment and profit, as well as tried-and-tested systematic business operations that they provide. While the country’s franchising sector can be considered modest compared to the global franchising phenomenon, the time is ripe for Philippine brands to go global.

EARLY BEGINNINGS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR PROF. SORIANO is an ASEAN Family Business Advisor, Book Author and Executive Director of ASEAN-based Business Consulting group, Wong + Bernstein Strategic Advisory.

He is slated to conduct a series of investment and franchise talks in the East Coast starting with the Annual Fiesta in America on August 13 and 14 in New York/New Jersey.

A select group of Philippine franchise owners will join the event and showcase their products. The event is the largest indoor gathering of Asians in the East Coast as more than 10,000 people are expected to attend.

Franchise companies interested to join Prof Soriano and promote their franchise concept can email their expressions of interest at wb@ wongadvisory.com c/o Ms. Aira.

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Franchising in the Philippines can be traced backed to 1910 when Singer, the sewing machine manufacturer, sold distribution licenses to Filipinos. In the ‘60s, A&W Restaurant came into the country also through franchising.

But it took decades before Filipinos caught on to the benefits of franchising.

It was not until the ‘90s when international companies realized the viability of franchising their brands in the Philippines. A study commissioned by the Philippine Franchising Association showed a 97% success rate for franchises.

Despite its status as a developing country, Filipinos are known for their penchant for shopping, especially when it comes to international name-brand items.

Today, PFA pegs the success rate of entrepreneurs who operate a franchise at a high 90%, compared to the 25% for traditional retailers or independent start-up businesses.

“A franchise is for people who are not entrepreneurs — those who don’t know how to start their own business,” said Samie Lim, founder and chairman of

the PFA as well as president of consulting firm Francorp Philippines, Inc. “ A franchise is for people who will follow rules because that is the formula. If you fool around with that formula, you will not succeed. A creative person will not be successful as a franchisee because he will fool around with the formula.”

Mr. Lim noted that franchising has caught the attention of Filipino entrepreneurs because this type of business poses less risk than most other businesses.

INDUSTRY GROWTH DURING THE ASIAN FINANCIAL CONTAGION In an article, “Philippine brands set foot on foreign shores” written

by Nuqui and Silva, they cited a US Department of Commerce’s National Trade Data Bank study highlighting the franchising industry in the Philippines growing by 44% in 1997 and 25% in 1998 despite an unstable economic situation.

PFA data show that the Philippine franchise industry grew from only 50 franchises in the early ‘90s to over 500 in the year 2000. Franchise industry sales grew from PhP30 billion in 1997 to PhP63 billion in 1999.

“Since 1997-’98, people say businesses went down. I think most of the other businesses were affected...they stagnated after the Asian crisis. But franchising continued to grow and it is still growing,” Mr. Lim noted.

Ironically, he attributed the boom in franchising in recent years to the Asian financial crisis and the global economic slowdown that followed thereafter. He noted that “franchising is even better when the economy is bad” because when factories closed and people were laid off, they turn to entrepreneurship.

THE TIME IS NOW For overseas filipinos who have spent a good deal of their professional life outside the Philippines and have the burning desire to own a business back home, its time to take the giant leap of faith towards financial independence and the elusive quality of life. You still have a good 20 to 30 years of productive life ahead of you. So stop procrastinating!

Its time to own a business and enjoy the fruits of your hard earned labor. sorianoasia@gmail.com.

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RET IR EMENT

RETIREMENT.

M O R E F U N I N T H E PH I L I PP I N E S

A

n ideal retirement haven brings to mind warm weather, powdery beaches, scenic views, heavenly dishes and friendly people. A large number of people are retiring in the Philippines mainly to experience a great life in a tropical paradise without spending too much.

World-class and affordable healthcare, high quality of standard living for a very low cost, wonderful and hospitable people and minimal language barrier are factors that attracts foreigners to retire, reside and invest in the Philippines.

Healthcare in the Philippines is of good standard. There are Joint Commission International (JCI)-accredited hospitals like St.Luke’s, Medical City, Makati Medical Centre and Asian Hospital. Practically speaking, hospital costs and medicines are cheap in the Philippines. The amount of co-pay in the US may be practically equal to the amount of the whole medical procedure in the Philippines. With this kind of healthcare system a foreign retiree will be able to save a lot from their funds.

Also, the doctors and nurses are well trained, highly skilled and professionally competent and capable of giving excellent health services.

The cost of living in the Philippines is with no doubt cheaper relative to many places in the world. This is the perfect place if you want your money to go a lot further. Most foreigners live comfortably in the Philippines for about $800 to $1,200 a month and that is already a pretty great deal of leisure and luxury.

Food is abundant and pretty affordable.

One would be able to savor international and local cuisines. A foreigner may also enjoy affordable, fast and stable access to the internet which is an absolute necessity for them, not only to get a hold of all the important information on visa requirements, public transportation, local events, etc., but also to keep in touch with their relatives abroad. Cable television is attainable for just $12 a month with the

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option of adding foreign channels for a minimal cost.

Further, the Philippines is the only country in Asia that uses English as their second official language. It is easy to integrate with Filipinos. English is very widely spoken even in the provinces.

Signages and instructions are in English, and daily newspapers are in English.

There are also newspapers in Chinese, Japanese, Korean etc.

Its tropical climate is nature’s blessing especially to those who dream to escape harsh winter seasons. It is very favorable to the elderly who have ailments that are triggered by a colder climate. Also, the society is innately respectful and caring for the elderly.

For active tourists/retirees, the Philippines offers many sports adventures/ activities. One can snorkel with the gentle giants and whale sharks in Cebu or Sorsogon. Explore the beautiful corals of the famous and world class diving sites of Puerto Galera, Batangas, and Cebu. Brave the waves of Baler, Siargao and La Union.

Join the Philippines’ most popular festivals like Cebu City’s Sinulog, Aklan’s Ati-Atihan and Iloilo’s Dinagyang. The serene blue waters and white sand beaches of breathtaking islands like Coron, Boracay and Bohol are choices to enjoy and experience the whole year round.

The attitude of Filipinos towards foreigners and fellow Filipinos are exceptional especially when it comes to hospitality and being friendly. Aside from the country’s stunning natural assets, one thing that makes a foreigner’s stay extraordinary is their interactions with Filipinos.

Because of these factors, the Philippines is dubbed as one of the world’s leading retirement destinations.

Last but not least, the retiree has visa options depending on his situation: dual citizenship, 13A (for those married to Filipinos), and PRA’s Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV).

SRRV is a non-immigrant multiple-entry, indefinite-stay visa. With the SRRV, the holders may stay in the Philippines for as long as they want without giving up their citizenship. Other benefits include: multiple-entry privileges, exemption privileges, access to greet and assist programs, discount privileges from services offered by PRA Merchant Partners, and assistance in obtaining documents from other government agencies, among others.

The Philippine Retirement Authority, a government agency dedicated to lead the retirement agenda of the country designed the retirement visa based on varying retiree lifestyles and needs. The basic features of the SRRV are: 01. SRRV SMILE – for active / healthy principal retirees 35 years old and above who would just like to maintain their Visa deposit of US$20,000.00 in any of the PRA designated banks; 02. SRRV CLASSIC – for active / healthy principal retirees who would opt to use their Visa deposit of US$10,000.00/US$20,000.00 (50 years old & above) or US$50,000.00 (35 to 49 years old) to purchase condominium units or use for long term lease of house and lot; 03. SRRV HUMAN TOUCH – for ailing principal retirees, 35 years old and above, who are shown to have medical/clinical needs and services.

Under this option, the retiree only needs to have a Visa deposit of US$10,000.00, a monthly pension of at least US$1,500.00 and a Health Insurance Policy; and 04. SRRV COURTESY – for former Filipinos (35 years old & above), and foreign nationals (50 years old & above) who have served in the Philippines as diplomats, ambassadors, officers/staff of international organizations. The visa deposit is US$1,500.00.

There are many reasons to retire. Some retire to experience utmost comfort and enjoyment after long years of working while some retire to begin a new life.

Whatever it is, retiring in the Philippines is an experience one will never forget.

Come and retire in the Philippines!

We promise you it will be worth it.

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BUSINESS OU T LOO K

DIGITAL PRESENT THE POWER OF OPEN PLATFORM

“

THE PHILIPPINES IS OPEN-MINDED WITH START UP INDUSTRIES. THERE’S INTEREST IN START UPS.

In the competitive world of consumerism, the extent of predictive marketing often stretches beyond what is necessary. With the inexorable influence of social media, business has gone from traditional, to unconventional verging toward a more accessible approach to selling. Given the statistics on the buying power of modern consumers, there is, as they say, no where to go but up.

WRITER

Mary May Portez

ILLUSTRATOR

- Dex ter Ligot - Gordon Coo Of Kalibr r

Allana Santos

18%

29%

31%

39%

18%

made an online purchase via mobile device

purchased a product/service online

visted an online retail store

searched online for a product/ service

made an online purchase via laptop/ desktop computer BUSINESS OPPOR TUNI TIES eCOMMERCE

ECOMMERCE AND THE RISE OF STARTUPS In a country where 47.13 million¹ are active internet users, the Philippines is fast becoming the fulcrum of business startups, including a long entourage of personalities hopeful for fame and exposure. The significance of social media in the country is almost at par with its ability to draw tourist—let alone investments. Considering how 87% of its population have mobile phone ownership², the market reach of any mobile publicity reaches more than half of 101.47 million³ Filipinos; and with 55% of them owning a smart phone², the media interest is almost instantaneous as determining whether a product is effectively influencing a consumer’s buying decision.

52’537’00⁴. That’s the total number of visitors Zalora has gained in 2015, 23’666’900⁴ coming from mobile visits.

During the recent Slingshot Philippines, a government-initiated platform for public dialogue and partnership organized by the Department of Trade

and Industry with support from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and other industry stakeholders, it was heavily accentuated that the Philippines has the potential to be a forerunner in the global ricochet of how eCommerce is shaping how the world do business. US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg has coined the term “Filipinovation” to describe the need for a brand or recall to properly distinguish the Philippines form other emerging countries in relative fields and put emphasis on the techpreneurs*, just as the impending need to sort out legal policies for startups suggest a more serious involvement from the government.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Adrian Cristobal Jr. has mentioned during his keynote address that the sector is initiating a co-working space for startups, with its potential innovation center at Philippine Trade Training Center. Several important issues like the role of the education sectors, foreign trade, and proper

orientation on venture capitalists were also discussed to properly shed light on the current status of local startups and their projected growth in the years to come.

But what do we know about startups?

If anything, startups are not limited to tech startups that are often top of mind when we hear the term. Startups can be anything from a starting online clothing store on Instagram to a small group of tech engineers in a small startup incubator*.

In the Philippines, there are several startup incubators: apart from the DTI and DOST, there are private organizations (both local and international) helping local startups like, ideaspace, kickstart, and impacthub, to name a few. These parties, for the most part, provide the necessary guidance during the incubation period assisting with training, mentorship, business acceleration, and acquiring the right investors.

*techpreneur - a bespoke term to describe technology entrepreneurs *startup incubator - usually run by both public and private parties; can be associated with universities and some business schools to allow their students and alumni to develop certain programs; helps solve problems associated with running a startup by providing work space, seed funding, mentoring, and training.

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CHALLENGES lack of proper orientation for investors and venture capitalists banks don’t often approve loans to startups without the substantial collateral limited mentorship about disclosure and accessibility not enough early trainings and seminars from educational institutions to orient students

SOLUTION BY VOLUME: ECOMMORCE ADDRESS SOLUTIONS FOR THE MASSES “It takes an entire ecosystem to build and support startups.”

-DIANE EUSTAQUIO, Ideaspace Foundation Executive Director Despite these challenges, the undeniable reach and effectivity of eCommerce is proving to be substantial enough to challenge traditional businesses. Considering that in 2020, 70% of the workforce will be dominated by tech savy millenials, eCommerce will undoubtedly be more sustainable—if not more effective.

In the fast growing modern trade, if a business has no online presence, it’s like saying no to half of the population: of potential customers.

Innovation must be market driven.

There’s no stopping change. With this change, comes a chain of adjustments and innovations that must be enforced in order to keep up with growth. It may start from the open-mindedness to the right perspective of future entrepreneurs, but with all these, comes a need for, well, the right opportunity.

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FROM T H E EXECU T I VE’S DES K | GAM E C H ANGER S

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HOW RALPH SANTOS AND VMONEY ARE DISRUPTING THE FINANCIAL TECH SPHERE – Can the Philippines become a cashless society and one of the world’s top economies? Ralph Santos believes so.

Christina M. Oriel PHOTOGRAPHER Noel Ty

WRITER

O

n a scorching summer afternoon, Ralph Santos retreats to his favorite place in the Philippines.

No, it’s not a picturesque beach — it’s his office.

Within the four walls, Santos has created an enclave to call his own.

Behind his desk are basketballs, autographed by some of the greatest NBA players, individually contained in glass cases that are meticulously stacked to form a pyramid. By the window are cases with signed boxing gloves, while another side of the room has baseball trading cards and a box of badges from various law enforcement agencies in the United States.

“I’m a collector,” Santos remarks. “If there was an earthquake, I would only take one thing: the Michael Jordan ball with the rookie card…Everything else I’m leaving behind. If I took that, it would help rebuild this office.”

But prized possessions aside, this is the spot where some of his best ideas emerge for VMoney, an end-to-end financial technology startup of which he is the founder and chief executive officer.

Looking out at the residential and commercial developments in Bonifacio Global City that have sprung up in the past five years, Santos energetically charts out what he envisions the Philippines will look like 10 to 20 years from now. The wish list is concise, yet comes as a tall order.

For one, improved infrastructure that entails faster telecommunications and a more efficient transportation system; second, an entirely cashless society.

“If we improve those two, the country would be number one in the world, really. We’ve got the resources and talent,” he says, pointing out the window, “Look at this and see how

we’re thriving.”

With VMoney’s digital platform, the roadmap to weaning the country off physical cash is systematically being laid out, but it’s going to take a collective effort from the government, businesses, and individuals, Santos emphasizes.

“If you put this country in a cashless state, it’s a different game altogether. It can help with poverty. It can help with the government, institutions and the processes. Everything and anything. I believe that,” he declares. “Educating people to make sure that it’s seamless and secure is really key and I think once people start getting a handle on that and grasping that going cashless is just as secure, then that allows for that change to happen.”

Born in the Philippines, Santos migrated to Canada with his family when he was 6 years old. His father was an architect and engineer, so the family would move every so often around North America.

In Canada, Santos built a career in telecommunications, regulatory, infrastructure, and anti-fraud. It’s also where he met Zos, his wife and chief strategy officer of VMoney.

The couple sold financial technology for about 10 years and observed a remittance trend among overseas Filipinos.

“What happened was, we found out our caregivers were sending a majority of their salaries to the Philippines, but 10 percent of it was going to providers for remittances. What we wanted to do was provide a solution where they could actually send their remittances using a more cost-effective method,” Santos recalls. “That’s when we started to pursue an implementation in the Philippines for a remittance business.”

With the premise of promoting inclusive growth to the masses,

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remittances contribute largely to the Philippine economy. The act of transferring funds is embedded within the culture, too. A relative takes his or her talents overseas, only to send a percentage of the earnings back to family members in the Philippines so they can go to school and pay for basic necessities.

As of 2013, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas estimated that 10.2 million Filipinos worked or resided abroad.

Remittances have been at record highs in the past few years as well — in 2014, Filipinos sent a whopping $26.92 billion back to the Philippines.

But, how could these overseas Filipinos transfer funds instantly, securely, and without exorbitant fees? How could they know that their hard-earned money is being used for its intended purpose?

These are some gaps that Santos saw in the market. From there, VMoney’s platform was conceived, and formally launched in 2013.

In order to properly execute the concept, Santos uprooted his family and made the move back to the Philippines — a phenomenon known as reverse migration. For two years, he had been traveling every two weeks between the Philippines and Canada for various projects, including consulting banks,

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“Coming to the Philippines, living and breathing this platform technology, implementing it, improving it, sharing it and putting it to where it is today, where it’s recognized and confuses the biggest organizations and companies in the world, that’s my reward.

To me, we’re beyond disruption. We’ve started to shift markets and eventually, our end goal is to transform societies,” Santos says.

large corporations, and the government on anti-fraud solutions.

Making the transition from North America was “frustrating,” he warns aspiring entrepreneurs who want to come and start a business in the Philippines.

“At the onset, it was building the foundation of the company — that was the most challenging part. So when we opened up the organization just in terms of the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC), that was quite a process. Getting the certifications, accreditations, and basically all the permits took the longest,” he details, adding that a remittance license takes anywhere from six to nine months to acquire. “It took a year and a half to get Philippine Economic Zone Authority

(PEZA) accreditation. The renovations, permits and Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) stuff [are all part] of a long process, especially in the type of business we’re in.”

Hiring talent posed another challenge because though a candidate may look attractive on paper, working on the job is a better gauge to measure the qualifications. All new hires undergo a six-month probationary period to determine whether or not they can fit the organization.

“You have to be patient because everyone here says they can do it but once you put them through the rigor, that’s when you really see if they’re qualified or not”, he said.

Currently, VMoney’s Philippine office has a team of 20 individuals who

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handles sales, marketing, and front-end development. The senior technical team and engineers are based out of Canada.

BORDERLESS TRANSACTIONS Differentiating itself from services like Paypal, Venmo, and Apple Pay, VMoney enables businesses and consumers to send and receive funds in real-time using a browser or the myVMoney mobile app. The end-to-end structure allows transactions to be seamless, whether it’s for transferring money, paying bills, issuing employee payroll or buying prepaid load.

The sign-up process is straightforward and simple: potential customers generate a user profile online, using an email address or mobile number, and upload a valid government ID. “With us, people can apply online.

They don’t have to leave the house, travel 30 minutes to two hours through traffic and wait in line for an hour to try to register for a bank card that requires an average daily balance and a higher cost. Our platform allows them to sign up online, get verified online and have the cards (MasterCard, VISA or ATM) delivered to them at their own convenience,” Santos explains.

In addition to the mobile app, VMoney has a line of products (a sticker, bracelet, keychain and ring) that use Near Field Communication (NFC) technology.

By tapping one of the NFC-powered devices onto a point-of-sale device (such

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as a smartphone), money is digitally transferred without ever having to handle cash.

Even with news reports of scams, identity theft, and money laundering, Santos — a certified fraud examiner and the managing director of anti-fraud agency NAFA Philippines — ensures that VMoney deploys the highest level of security in each transaction.

VMoney undergoes third-party security audits and reviews to make sure the platform is up to date and that the database is secure and is not shared with any outside parties.

“We make sure that there is a thorough validation process and that we know the individual, so we know exactly where they are, where they live and we have their most recent government ID so if anything happens, we know where to go and who to ask. We also have Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) compliance requirements, where if there is any individual surpassing or receiving transactions or funds that go beyond the threshold of the AMLA requirements we report it accordingly,” Santos says.

For the NFC-based technology, users can activate and deactivate it themselves, then “assign it to someone else without any compromise to themselves or the person they’re passing the peripheral to.”

Despite the unparalleled, revolutionary technology VMoney has introduced,

the platform is not solely for the super digitally connected and financially savvy. So far, a lot of the adoption has come from merchants educating their employees, customers or through word of mouth among friends and family.

Having actress/model Solenn Heussaff on board as the chief brand officer also helps with getting people to sign up and educating people about the benefits of the platform.

“At a consumer level, brand recognition is the most difficult thing in this country because Filipinos are more focused on who they know that represents a product and how long the product has been around,” Santos says. “For us, one of our officers is Solenn Heussaff.

She does well in communicating and marketing the products we have and providing the easy knowledge transfer to the masses. We’re using a brand officer who is already recognized in the country, plus we’re using the forced adoption methodology.”

With the eventual ubiquity of VMoney, Santos says, it is meant to be more inclusive and uplift more Filipinos, including those who are underserved and underbanked.

Today, VMoney has offices in Bonifacio Global City, Canada, and Silicon Valley in the United States. Santos projects that the company will expand to three more countries by the end of the year and another 10 countries in 2017.

“We always go by the motto that we want to be ubiquitous, borderless, holistic and agnostic. Once we become global, we’re in that path for it,” he says.

As the company maps out its plans for globalization, Santos often has internal debates of what VMoney’s leadership will look like down the line. Seeing that there are a lot of improvements and features that still need to be introduced, he says that he can’t let go of the venture anytime soon.

“Coming to the Philippines, living and breathing this platform technology, implementing it, improving it, sharing it and putting it to where it is today, where it’s recognized and confuses the biggest organizations and companies in the world, that’s my reward. To me, we’re beyond disruption, we’ve started to shift markets and eventually, our end goal is to transform societies,” Santos says.

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T RAV EL | DI S COVE RY

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isualize yourself waking up to a remarkable view of vast farmland, the sound of chirping birds, and the sun on your face. The air is clean and crisp. The scent of grass and delicious crops occasionally carried by the breeze bring a whiff of undeniable freshness.

For those tourists who are after what’s trending, Charisse Nicole Trinidad discovers that the most rewarding adventure are found off the beaten path – may they be for business or for pleasure.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

David Miro Are & Godwin Josef Gasacao BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM 53 Allana Santos & Kenno Samulde

PHOTO COLORISTS

HISTORY The Province of Isabela or as the Ilokanos would call it “Probinsya ti Isabela”, is a province of the Philippines and the second largest region in the country next to Palawan.

Located in the Cagayan Valley Region in Luzon, its capital is Ilagan and borders clockwise from Nueva Vizcaya, Ifugao, Mountain Province, and Kalinga. This primarily agricultural province is the rice and corn granary of Luzon due to its plain and rolling terrain. In 2012, the province was declared by Agriculture Regional Executive Director, Lucrecio Alviar as the country’s top producer in corn with about 1,209,524 production.

Being one of the top 10 richest

province in the Philippines last 2011, it is the only province in Northern Luzon to be included in the list. The province has four trade centers in the cities of Ilagan, Cauayan, Santiago, and the municipality of Roxas.

Before the year 1856, there were only two provinces in the Cagayan Valley: Cagayan and Nueva Vizcaya.

The province of Cagayan at that time consisted of all towns from Tumauini to the north in Aparri. In order to help the Catholic missionaries in the evangelization in the Cagayan Valley, a royal decree was issued on May 1, 1856, thus creating the Province of Isabela. It consisted of towns; Gamu, Old Angadanan (now Alicia), Bindang (now Roxas) and Camarag

(now Echague), Carig (now Santiago City) and Palanan. These towns have all been detached from Nueva Vizcaya; while Cabagan and Tumauini were taken from the Cagayan province. The region was put under the jurisdiction of a governor with the capital seat at Ilagan City, where it remains at present. It was initially called Isabela De Luzon to set it apart from other places in the Philippines bearing the name of Isabela. The new province was named in honor of Queen Isabella II of Spain.

Isabella was reorganized as a province under the American regime through Act No. 2vc10, passed August 24, 1901. It’s first provincial governor was Rafael Maramag, a former Municipal President (a term back then for Municipal Mayor) of the capital town Ilagan.

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TOURIST SPOTS AND ACTIVITIES Our Lady of Piat The Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat is one of 12 minor basilicas in the Philippines. The first thing you will notice would be how the Basilica of Our Lady of Piat has a unique entrance arch. It is distinguished as the home to the venerated Black Virgin Mary. Located in the town of Piat, it is a 30 minute drive from Tuguegarao City, Cagayan Province. This pilgrimage site attracts a large number of devotees especially on the first two days of July during the feast of Nuestra Señora de Piat.

Back in the day, Dra. Ines Maguillabbun, who was the first caretaker of the sanctuary had a nephew. The five year old child suffed from a swollen arm for four days.

There was no cure and neither did anyone know how to cure the sickness at the time.

He knew and accepted the fact that he would die any time soon. It was then that Dra. Ines brought the child with her to the sanctuary to ask for a cure. The child was left asleep at the altar steps of Our Lady’s image, and when he woke up his arm was cured. The news of the wondrous cure went like wildfire all around town, and the parish priest wanted to make sure that

it was Our Lady’s work. Dra. Ines denied having gone to the sanctuary for the purpose of asking Our Lady to cure her nephew, but when the child was questioned he admitted having asked Our Lady to cure him with just this simple words: “Holy Mary, have mercy on me.”

The cure was so instantaneous and so efficacious that everybody believed it was Our Lady who miraculously saved him.

Callao Cave Consisting of seven chambers, Callao Cave is one of the limestone caves situated in the municipality of Penablanca, Cagayan province.

(More on page 60...)

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56 PHOTOGRAPHER

BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM David Miro Are

PHOTO COLORIST Allana

Santos

GETTING THERE & AROUND The fastest way to get to Isabela would be by air travel (1 hour), but if you were to get there by land it would take approximately 12 hours. The roads heading to and back from Isabela are stress free and quite smooth for anyone who suffers from motion-sickness.

Whether car or bus this should be a very stunning drive precisely because of the stunning mountain ranges of the Sierra Madre, the Caraballo and the Cordilleras that surround this province.

By Air Take a plane bound for Tuguegarao City. Cebu Pacific and PAL Express have flights from Manila to Tuguegarao City. From there, take a passenger van or bus going to Isabela. The trip to Sta. Maria, Isabela from the airport is approximately 1 – 2 hours and fare is about 180 pesos*.

By Car If you’re coming from the south of EDSA, going to NLEX, the best route would be to start at the Trinoma Mall area. There will be a stretch until you have arrived at NLEX tollgate where you will pay toll.

Note that motorists now enjoy the convenience brought about by the more modern and fully integrated operations of NLEX (North Luzon Expressway) and SCTEX (Subic – Clark-Tarlac Expressway).

These road networks have provided motorists with more convenient and shorter travel routes.

Now, once you’ve passed through NLEX, there will be a breathtaking view of rugged mountains of Nueva Vizcaya.

By Bus Commuting by bus from Manila, you have a choice of some premiere bus

terminals plying this route. You may opt to travel with Florida Bus Company or Victory Liner. Both bus companies have terminals in Sampaloc and Cubao areas where they have daily trips to Isabela (Cauayan, Ilagan, Roxas). Check with said bus companies on details of their trip schedules. Booking your trip in advance may prove to be most convenient. Travel time from Manila to Isabela usually takes between nine to eleven hours by bus. To experience Sta. Maria, Isabela; you may opt to get off at Cauayan, Ilagan or Roxas, Isabela.

Alternatively, you could take a bus bound for Tuguegarao. From either one of these points, you may transfer to a passenger van or bus bound for Sta. Maria, Isabela. Depending on where you get off, the ride should add up to approximately another 3-4 hours.

Travel fare would cost up to 180-250 pesos*.

*Travel timeBALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM and prices mentioned are subject 57 to change without prior notice*

T R AV E L | ESSENCE OF PLACE

Balay San Jose is home to the following:

SOUL SEARCHING

BALAY SAN JOSE WRITER

Charisse Trinidad

David Miro Are & Godwin Josef Gasacao PHOTOGRAPHER

PHOTO COLORIST

Allana Santos

In its simplest form, “retreat” means to withdraw or drawback. It is a time to come away from the busy world and reflect on your spiritual life in a variety of ways.

Throughout the ages, the Christian tradition has understood retreat to be an important part of spiritual formation. Whether you want to be with a group or to be alone, to come for an hour, a day, a week or even a month, with a topic in mind or just a need to listen to your heart, a retreat can be the best option for ministering to worshipers.

Some retreats are led by retreat teams with talks, rituals, liturgies and time for quiet contemplation.

In the year 2014, a retreat house called Casa di Spirualita di San Giuseppe was built in the heart of Balay San Jose. It was built in memory of Maria Lourdes, the fourth child of Larry and Sofie Pagauitan who had passed away due to an accident.

At Balay San Jose, their main objective is to eliminate all distractions and allow the Lord to work on a multitude of lives. Their heart warming staff assure guests that the rooms are to be clean when upon arrival, the meals to be hot and delicious, and meeting rooms to be what every religious group needs. Each guest is treated with importance and equally given private time with the Lord.

Situated on undulated hills and facing green farms and pastures, it is the best place to gaze upon the might and grandeur of the Sierra Madre mountain range and wonder in awe at how lovingly the Lord protects his people.

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GALLERY OF “ST. JOSEPH IN ARTS” A vast collection of St. Joseph statues and paintings.

CASA DI MARELLO A home by the fish pond especially built for the priests and brothers of the Oblates of St. Joseph. Joseph Marello was their founder.

SANTUARIO DE SAN JOSE A beautiful church that houses the precious ivory image of St. Joseph and whose stained glass windows tell the story of the man who took care of the interests of Jesus. Its gilded ceiling is astounding and its majestic altarpiece is a sight to behold.

LARRY AND SOFIE’S REST HOUSE

VIA CRUSIS

ST. JOSEPH LIBRARY

Stations of the Way of the Cross depicted in stained glasses beside wooden crosses on the top portion of the hills.

A collection of printed and digital materials on St. Joseph.

LOURDES CHAPEL

GALILEE

THE HERMITAGE

A small chapel built in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Also in memory of Ma. Lourdes G. Pagauitan, the daughter of Larry and Sofie Pagauitan.

A cluster of native but air-conditioned huts in the middle of a lake that seem to float amidst the colorful water lilies and hyacinths. This place is best for soul searching.

A solitary house in a hidden valley. It is a special place for those who want to be alone with the Lord. Nestled beside a man-made lagoon, it offers no other view except the hills surrounding it.

ST. JOSEPH HOUSE OF SPIRITUALITY

CASA DI SPIRITUALITA’ DI SAN GIUSEPPE

CHAPEL OF THE SANCTO SEPULCHRO AND THE RISEN CHRIST

The first retreat house built in the center, it caters to class and group retreats. It has air conditioned dormitories, conference halls and refectory. It is attached to the Lourdes chapel.

A retreat house with 42 bedrooms (with private bath), two big dormitories, two small dormitories, refectories, conference halls and chapels (all fully equipped with air condition) and a breathtaking landscaped garden.

A small chapel divided into two, the first half housing the image of the Our Lady of Sorrows (on papyrus from Egypt) watching over the laid body of Jesus after having been taken from the cross, while the other half is home to the image of the Risen Christ.

Weekend sanctuary for couples who wish to renew their marriage vows.

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T RAV EL | ADVENT UR E

CALLAO CAVE CALLAO CAVE is one of the province’s most popular caves and is only a half hour drive from Cagayan’s capital Tuguegarao City. It was named after the Kallaw bird, once very common in this area. The cave is located above the Pinacanauan River. A stair leads up 187 steps on the mountainside to the cave entrance. A series of seven chambers may be visited.

FIRST The first huge chamber is called the Aviary Room, having many openings that let in daylight and several species of birds that live here. The site of archaeological excavations right at the entrance is fenced off. Archaeologists from the University of the Philippines found Neolithic tools and human remains.

SECOND The main attraction of the cave is the second chamber called Divine Room. It was transformed into a church, because it is spacious and has an opening allowing the sunlight to enter the huge chamber. According to some locals, it is possible to have a wedding in this church, but only if the groom carries the bride all the way up the 187 steps.

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THIRD The following chamber has no opening and is thus dark; logically it is called Dark Room. From here good torches would seem appropriate.

FOURTH

The Cream Room was named after a large formation that looks like three scoops of ice cream.

FIFTH

The Jungle Area, named after several animal-shaped rock formations.

SIXTH The sixth room has a passage branching off halfway up the ceiling. It is accessible on spelunking tours, but the participants enter the passage on the far end on the other side of the mountain.

SEVENTH The final chamber is called Sun Room, because early in the morning, between 8 and 10, sunrays shine through an opening in the wall. Later the angle changes and the sun does not directly hit the cave any more.

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T RAV EL | EX P LOR E R

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B A T A N E S WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHER Potpot

Pinili

The homeland of the Ivatans is the Philippines’ most coveted travel destination.

Featuring captivating landscapes and unique insular culture, Batanes’ phenomenal rarity will fill your wanderlust to the brim.

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here is something about lighthouses that evoke feelings of serenity and refuge. It stands graceful in solitude, unfazed amidst the whistling winds of the sea. In the darkness of night, its warm light whispers you’ve sailed your way home to safety.

And nowhere this scene is more astonishing than in Batanes, the northernmost frontier of the Philippines.

The Ivatans are the stewards of this paradise whose culture is honed by the sordid seas, tempest weather and somewhat inhospitable lands.

Its blissful isolation has created the dramatics of a middle earth enchantment----emerald hills that roll to the sea, deep canyons, stone dwellings, peculiar language and ancient traditions that are still practiced to this day.

Because of these beautiful rarities, no wonder why Batanes tops in anyone’s wanderlust. It is so exceptional that ticking it off on the bucket list is a sweet triumph.

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SO NEAR YET SO FAR With its whooping regular of airfare P18,000, it’s no surprise why desirous travelers even camp in travel fairs for promo seats!

Batanes is closer to Taiwan than anywhere in mainland Philippines.

Touted as the smallest in land area and population, they are those tiny specks of isles on the northernmost territory bounded by the Pacific Ocean on the east and the West Philippine Sea on the other side.

Ten islands comprise the province, of which, only 3 are inhabited---Batan, where Basco, the capital town is located, Sabtang and Itbayat. Direct flight service from Manila is commercially served by small aircrafts of Philippine Airlines and Skyjet.

The latest game changer in Batanes airspace is Wakay Air. In partnership with AirSwift, the country’s only boutique airline, Ivatans around the world get special year-round fare.

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FINEST CULTURAL FESTIVAL Women wearing those bulky golden grass headgears are perhaps the most quintessential image that we know of the Ivatans.

Those are called vakul, an all-weather gear used by the farmers in the field.

The men wear vests named kanayi and paired with talugong, a hat we know in the mainland as salakot.

Made from the shredded leaves of voyavoy or Philippine date palm, this plant is endemic to Batanes and grows abundantly on the island of Sabtang.

In the hopes of preserving and promoting this single most defining image of them as Ivatans, the island town of Sabtang created a festival that celebrates the significance of voyavoy in their daily lives.

Dubbed as Vakul-Kanayi Festival, it pooled for the 1st time a myriad of elements that shaped their abilities and their identity as Ivatans in a complex cultural milieu, those being resilient and resourceful from the stresses of its weather and land conditions.

For 3 days, tourists and locals from other islands were treated to different surprises like the agro-trade fair, float parade, weaving contests and cultural presentations. A fluvial procession in honor of its titular San Vicente Ferrer was also trumpeted around the fringes of the island.

The street dancing competition, a first of its kind in the island, was the most anticipated part of the festival. Clad

in patched skirts and pants, vakul and kanayi, the children of Sabtang wowed the audience with curated movements, music and narratives.

But what make this very young festival a real standout are its homegrown fun activities like sheep rodeo, chasing piglets, chickens and goats that involved everyone in the crowd including the tourists. They also staged rowing competitions where they showed off their brute skills in paddling through the unforgiving current of the sea.

The Vakul-Kanayi Festival may just be the brainchild of a few people but everyone in the island executed it with so much joy. And in the true spirit of cooperation, Ivatan owned companies

rolled in their help even without asking for grandstanding mileage. It was also supported by the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board.

March 25-27 will never be the same again in the coming years as this festival vows to put Batanes on the kilometric list of festivals that we celebrate in the Philippines.

The island of Sabtang is the showcase island of the province’s rich and unique cultural heritage. It is the home of the finest weavers and the site of the best preserved vernacular Ivatan houses.

Step into the communities of Savidug and Chavayan and be transported back in time with its blocks of traditional houses made of stone and roofed in cogon grass. And they’re not even set-up for tourists like museum tableaus but real homes with people living on it.

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CHOOSE YOUR PARADISE Being one of the very few places in the Philippines that have unique geological characteristics, the landscapes and seascapes of Batanes are protected by environmental laws.

With this, it has kept its province pristinely pretty that would soon probably land them in the prestigious list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site.

From its verdant hills to cave-like outcrops and wave-tempered cliffs to cerulean waters, there are a lot of beautiful moments here. It’s truly a wonderland for filmmakers and photographers.

Batan Island is the gateway to Batanes.

Lighthouses on hills crouched by freerange cattle and horses; mountains neatly lain with hedgerows and bucolic townscapes are just among the many things that would tickle your fancies.

Take a walk or peddle on old Japanese bikes around town and experience the time warp like feeling of being in a 1920s silent movie.

Cruise down south of Batan Island and be treated to a ride of your life on narrow, dead-curve roads carved from mountainsides. Bask on its white sand beaches or wallow on the blue lagoon.

The main island is also a haven for

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heritage churches like the San Carlos de Borromeo and the San Jose de Ivana; both date back to 18th century. Explore deeper south and you’ll end up in the quiet town of Uyugan bathed in coastal panorama and historical gems.

But if extreme outdoor adventure is your kind of game, head to the northern island of Itbayat. In fact, getting there on its traditional boat called the falowa is already half the fun! Be prepared to be tossed by huge waves and to experience its unusual docking style of jumping from the nose of the boat as it levels off with the wharf’s concrete platform.

Trekking and spelunking characterize Itbayat’s kind of adventure. Sunrise in the rugged Rapang Cliff and exploring the caves in Torongan and Sarokan are among the most anticipated activities reserved not for the faint-hearted.

Sabtang, aside from being its cultural hotspot, is also a host of Batanes’ iconic landmarks. The Ahaw rock arch in Morong Beach and the Wuthering Heights feel of the peaks in Chamantad are just among the images that have landed on many magazines.

From Sabtang, one can easily cross to an uninhabited island called Vuhus for quick dip on the beach that is laden with blinding white sand and crystal clear water.

ANCIENT TRADITIONS Without deserting its pagan traditions even when Christianity was introduced in the islands, the Ivatans have carried on some of its rituals to this generation.

Among them is kapayvanuvanua, an ethnic ritual performed during the season of dorado fishing between April to May to honor the

supernatural entities of the sea. Arayu to the locals, it is prized specie of dolphin fish harvested only by a special breed of fishermen called matao who thrive on the craggy eastern bend of Batan Island.

Like most Filipinos, the Ivatans have a lot of celebrations from birth to death often characterized by local songs and dances. During fiestas, the singing of the laji, inivayvatan, sagala and gosos---a slew of rare lyric folk poetry in both Spanish and Ivatan are never missed.

But among the age-old traditions that are still actively done in Batanes is the spirit of cooperative work. Especially during summer, the season when cogon roofs are changed, the people in the community gathers in a cooperative work for free called kapanidungan.

HONESTY AND MODESTY In a world where honesty has become a rare virtue, contrarily in

Batanes, this is a natural way of life. Here, most houses are left open even when no one is at home.

Some stores like the famous Honesty in Batan and Conscience in Sabtang do not have attendants.

Just write what you got and leave your payments on the counter.

Because of its survival challenges where there’s lack of arable lands, let alone its extreme weather changes, the Ivatans have come to live on what they have. This led them to value a modest lifestyle tempered by contentment and hardwork.

Even to this day, among the youth, the rich and the powerful, it’s not surprising to spot a mayor on a carabao or a doctor freediving for a lobster lunch.

Batanes may be one of the most expensive places to reach in the Philippines but with its stunning panorama, unique time-honored traditions and a simple but wonderful way of life so different from the rest of the country, everything is all so worth it.

And just like its pretty lighthouses decked on the hillocks, you’d probably say you’re in a different world but you’re safely home.

GUSTATORY SPINS Fresh seafood is abundant in Batanes.

Feasting on lobsters and exotic fish is a common thing. They also take pride of their rare coconut crab called tatu---something you can only eat in Batanes and can never be taken out from the island.

Sweet potato locally known as wakay is the staple food here. They are also rich in cassava, purple yam and taro.

Must-tries include uvud balls or minced banana core rolled with fish flakes and ground pork, humot, a refreshing seaweed soup and fiddlehead fern salad commonly known as pako.

But never leave Batanes without sampling its take on the popular pinoy adobo called luñis. Choice cuts of salted pork go on low fire until it deep-fries to a crispy perfection. Preserved in its own oil using tight-sealed jars, luñis can last for a long time even without putting it on the fridge.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Potpot Pinili is the pen behind the blog, Travel Trilogy. Leaving his corporate job for a life of travel, his newfound nomadic lifestyle has found home in islands, festivals and bizarre cafes. He also writes for in-flight magazines and online news networks. Follow his adventures on Facebook and Instagram as @traveltrilogy.

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T RAV EL | WH AT TO PAC K

THE

GREAT OUTDOORS WRITER

Mary May Portez Melissa Reynoso

ILLUSTRATOR

At the heart of every adventure are the necessary tools and mindset to overcome any obstacle. We asked Waves for Water Country Head and outdoor enthusiasts Carlo Delantar what it takes to be a mover of real travel adventures. From packing the right essentials to leaving the proper footprints, we sorted out the indispensable from the optional to help you prepare for that quintessential outdoor adventure.

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Your typical outdoor essentials: What to wear? What to pack?

Your outdoor essentials will depend on the kind of trek/distance/adventure you plan to embark on. The First rule is to bring ONLY what you need in order to avoid unnecessary weight.

Make sure to pack: 1. Water – must be sufficient in terms of distance, duration, and location. If there’s a water source in the location, bringing a water filter is essential.

2. Meals and snacks – meals should be with longer shelf lives and can provide you with the necessary amount of energy throughout the day like protein bars, dried fruit snacks, etc.

3. Clothes - store clean clothes in a resealable plastic bag to keep it dry and clean. Depending on the weather, your clothes should be light and appropriate.

Make sure to pack quick dry and UPF protection clothes.

4. Hat and sunglasses - to protect you from the sun 5. Waterproof jacket 6. Headlamp or mini flashlight pack this in one of the main bag pockets for quick access, and make sure to bring extra batteries 7. Utility knife - must have a small scissors, can opener, and a knife to slice food, etc.

8. Sturdy, well-fitted backpack

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Tip: Trekking gloves | Trekking sticks - a must when trekking rocky, mountainous trails, these gloves can help you grip on rocks more effectively while protecting your hands from splinters and bruises. Trekking sticks are required when you’re hiking or trekking uneven terrain or mountain slopes. These staves can help you with your balance especially in steep trails.

Tip: Leave your itinerary with someone Inform a friend or a family member of your expected activities, where you are going, and estimated time of arrival (ETA) and departure time in case of emergency.

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Your emergency kit should have:

Basic guidelines and safety tips

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Medicine your necessary prescriptions and some basic meds like analgesics, antacids, etc.

First Aid antiseptics (alcohol, Betadine), adhesive bandages, gauze pads, or napkins (quite useful in deep wounds with excessive bleeding).

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Research on the community, the weather, and what to expect.

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Don’t bring excessive money, jewelry, and other unnecessary things. Make sure to stow some loose change.

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Have an open mind and remember to respect the local’s culture and the environment.

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Space blanket

Multi-purpose cream for insect bites and great as insect repellant

just in case you get caught in any unfavorable weather

Tip: In times of distress, use the STAR model for making decisions

Stop. Take a deep breath, sit down and remain calm

Think. Look around you, listen, and brainstorm options

Assess. Evaluate the options and their potential consequences

Respond. Take the best alternative.

Remember: Water, Food, Shelter, Warmth, and Will to Survive. If in doubt, keep calm and stay where you are.

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Practice the LNT (Leave No Trace) principle.

Carlo Delantar is a serial and social entrepeneur and an advocate of the environment. Country Director of Waves For Water, non-profit providing access to clean water. A Columbia #testedtough ambassador where people who go to great lengths and sacrifices to make a difference. When not in the field, you can find him in a kitchen, a library or under the sea.

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T RAV EL | GU I DEB O O K

THE PERFECT GETAWAY 101 WRITER

Ian Kelly Jamotillo

ILLUSTRATOR

Allana Santos

DAYDREAMING IN THE OFFICE is rapidly becoming a habit for most people.

A serene beach landscape with birds tweeting in the background is picture perfect rather than being stuck at your desk for hours. The cool breeze of the wind feels more refreshing than the artificial air from your air conditioner while the noise of crowding tourists sounds better than that coming from your nagging boss.

Social Media had played an important role in shaping one’s views toward traveling. Browsing through your Facebook feed lets you immerse into a virtual vacation courtesy of your friends’ travel photos. Surfing the World Wide Web entices you to check out new summer spots to try this

summer but planning a memorable vacation could be very complicated.

The best travel adventure often stems from a meticulous planning and it takes a lot of measures before you can even start packing your things and head to your desired destination.

In this modern world where we rely on our smartphones for almost everything, creating your dream holiday is just one touch away. Thanks to technology, planning your perfect trip can be a breeze with a plethora of benefits like booking online and grabbing cheap tickets. Save yourself from stress and go digital on your next getaway with the best travel apps you can download to make the most out of your adventure.

PLAN

Picking your destination and knowing about it should be among the top considerations. Going unprepared to a place you’ve never been to is a big leap of faith, and could ruin your entire vacation.

Weather these days is very unpredictable. It could be bright and sunny during an hour and gloomy and rainy during the next. Yahoo! Weather is the perfect companion for your travelling needs—informing you how much sunblock you need or if you have to bring an umbrella to prevent spoiling yourself while strolling in a foreign city. It offers a minimalistic design while giving accurate, hourly weather conditions based on your location.

Money is your greatest ally wherever you go and knowing how to spend it carefully is a huge must.

The Expensify app manually tracks your expenses by allowing you to photolog receipts and even import purchases from your credit card. Expensify even has its own currency converter so figuring out the conversions in a foreign land is no longer a hassle.

You’ll never run out of money again.

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C O M M U N I C AT E

N AV I G AT E

Wandering around a foreign city can be really tricky, coupled with one’s fear of getting lost.

Being familiar with your destination is one key to satisfaction—whether you’re commuting or driving. Blending GPS navigation and social networking, Waze is the largest community based traffic and navigation app that will give you the quickest route to your destination. It features live traffic updates sourced by Waze users themselves and even providing cheap gas stations for you.

Citymapper on the other hand is targeted for heavy commuters and provides live bus and bike routes, train timetables, while also providing ways on how to beat the rush hour. Stray Boots is a new player in the list that helps users tour around a foreign city by providing historical informations & trivias in a fun, gamelike approach. A cross between tour guiding and scavenger hunting, people who love exploring new cities should try checking out the app.

BOOK

Travelling is considered one of life’s best moments but usually compromises time and money. With careful planning however, this can be avoided so you can focus all your attention in snapping your holiday photos. Skyscanner aggregates fares from different airlines and travel sites to help you get the best deal while helping you track flights in real time. Expedia is another app that offers more versatility than just finding cheap airline tickets. It books hotel reservations, car and cruise rentals, and various vacation packages found in the internet.

Do you often scratch your head every time you’re going overseas because you cannot understand what the locals are saying? Fret no more with Google Translate. The app offers real time translation of text, speech, images, or even video to another language. With over 103 languages supported around the globe, speaking and understanding a different tongue can be easy as 1, 2 and 3.

EXPLORE

From pristine beaches to steep mountains to tall skyscrapers, it can be overwhelming to figure out which sites to visit first and include in your itinerary. Looking for the perfect place to satisfy your desires is one heavy chore but with the right app, you can effortlessly savor all the moments on your trip.

Foursquare helps you discover nearby places to eat, shop and play. It lists down all the best rated restaurants or shopping hubs based on your location and remembers it next time for curated suggestions. TripAdvisor is a diary for millions of traveler reviews, photos and recommendations.

It allows users to explore new restaurants, check prices and even book tables. It even lets users to compare airfares and find cheap deals to help save money while enjoying every piece of your vacation.

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DISCLAIMER: This is not a sponsored article. All mobile apps mentioned in the text are collated by the author based on user ranking and overall reviews and are therefore listed without prior notice.

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CATHY TURVILL: I was going through a personal crisis at the time and sought a place where I could relax, rejuvenate and recover. Tagaytay was perfect because of its cool air, natural ambiance and its accessibility to Manila. Nurture was conceptualized to be a place where one can rebalance and find themselves, at the same time enjoy therapeutic and healing massage. I did not know at the time that those were the vital elements in a spa.

SCOP E | GREAT ES CAP ES

BM: How does Nurture Spa stand out amongst other spas and wellness retreats?

CT: Nurture is not just a spa – it is a wellness village which offers a variety of services, from spa, detox, natural healing, corporate wellness programs, restaurant, a function room, accommodations, a campsite and an organic farm for educational tours. We proudly highlight our Filipino culture in what we do, be it the décor, the names of the treatments, the food and activities. While other spas try to be Balinese or Thai, we are proudly Filipino.

WELLNESS VISIONARY C ATHY TURVILL,

founder and co-owner Nurture Wellness Village Searching for a wellness getaway not too far from Manila? Located just 90 minutes from the city, Nurture Wellness Village is a Filipino-themed cultural, wellness and eco-tourism destination in Tagay tay. With cozy accommodations, an extensive spa menu (the nilaib and hilot treatments are among favorites), organic farm and event space, it’s no wonder that Nurture has been called “the Jewel of Tagay tay.”

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alikbayan Magazine had a conversation with Cathy Turvill, Nurture’s founder and co-owner, about the Village’s holistic approach to enhancing and rejuvenating guests’ mind, body and spirit.

BALIKBAYAN MAGAZINE: How did the idea of Nurture Wellness Village come about? What makes Tagaytay the perfect location for it?

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BM: How are the different components of the Village all connected to the main mission — from the spa to the accommodations to the organic farm?

CT: All of our services fall under our wellness model called CHOICES, an acronym that stands for the different Pillars of Wellness: C – control stress, choose to be Positive; H – healthy eating, hydrate; O – oxygenate; I – immune boost; C – cleanse body, mind & emotion; E – embrace natural healing therapies; S – sleep, social and spiritual connections.

Nurture Wellness Village offers all aspects of CHOICES. Nurture Farmacy focuses on healthy eating, while Camp Nurture offers opportunities for social and spiritual connections.

BM: “Detox” is a buzzword that is popularly used these days. From your perspective, what factors contribute to

an individual’s need to undergo a detox program?

CT: Detox may be very useful when a person is overweight, sluggish or has undergone recent medical or dental treatments, which involved intensive medication. In addition, detox may be helpful when one has high blood pressure or high blood sugar but we only do these under the supervision of our medical doctor/consultant. A light detox is also very useful when one has been eating a diet of high sugar, high fat or high salt, which would be helpful in rebalancing the body.

BM: Can you talk about the Work Well Project and how it helps company teams integrate balance and wellness in the workplace?

CT: According to the 2011 World Health Organization (WHO) Global Status Health Report, there is a global epidemic of the so-called lifestyle diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases. We see this in the Philippines where heart disease and cancer rank among the top killer diseases in the Philippines, with more people dying younger everyday from these lifestyle diseases. The WHO has expressed concern over the economic consequences of this global epidemic: lower productivity of the workforce due to sickness and increased poverty levels in developing countries as money is spent on medical costs instead of education. To respond to this urgent situation, companies can build a culture of wellness in the organization. Nurture has the “Work Well Project,” which is a strategic approach to building that culture, through educating individuals on the importance of health and wellness for themselves and their families. The project has an educational and fun-filled teambuilding program that features exercise activities and healthy food preparation demos.

BM: What is your vision for Nurture Spa in the coming years? What direction is the wellness industry in the Philippines heading toward?

CT: I would love to see Nurture continue to grow, take the lead in Corporate Wellness and help people become healthier, happier, better. The wellness industry is very promising and we look forward to helping the industry grow.

When we teach people how to be well, we contribute to the overall well-being of individuals, families, companies, communities and the country.

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SCOP E | H OT EL & R E SO RTS

A WOMAN OF CLASS

TRICIA S. SARABIA, General Manager, Hotel Celeste & Best Western Boracay Tropics

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RICIA S. SARABIA is one of the country’s youngest general managers. For six years, she has been running their two, f a m i l y - owned hotels – Hotel Céleste and Best Western Boracay Tropics.

PERSONAL CHALLENGE A Bachelor of Arts in Humanities Major in Communications graduate, Tricia never planned on running hotels. She dreamt of joining the advertising world to apply what she learned in school. In 2008, she took the challenge of trying something out of her comfort zone when she agreed to become part of the pre-opening team. She started her stint at their family-owned hotel as a reservations and management trainee, and eventually worked her way up to the Marketing Manager position.

In November of 2010, Tricia took on the role of managing the whole hotel after a two-year training program with their consultants and hotel managers wherein she learned the ropes in housekeeping, front office and human resources.

“Slowly but surely, I started to love what I was doing. It wasn’t a choice between advertising or running hotels but rather, it was using what I learned in school and applying it to the hotels I look after now. I get the best of both worlds and I continue to grow every year,” says Tricia about her major role in the company.

WORK IN PROGRESS Learning more about the hospitality industry is one of Tricia’s way to ultimately achieve her goal: expand the Hotel Céleste brand and make it known as the pioneer boutique hotel brand in the Philippines.

Humility remains despite Tricia’s success at a young age. “As a General Manager, my only limitation would be the amount of experience I have. I am a work in progress and I am very young so I make sure to seek for help and advice from more experienced General Managers I meet in the industry.”

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HOTEL CÉLESTE

– City Living Redefined

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iving in a fast-paced environment shouldn’t sacrifice convenience and class. At the h e a r t of the country’s central business district is a luxurious boutique hotel catering young professionals who are always on the go. Hotel Celéste in Makati City is a haute couture boutique hotel with 30 luxurious guestrooms and suites from the business group of husband and wife team, Bert and Celi Sarabia.

A European escapade inspired Celi to create a living experience where guests are treated not just as clients but as family. After experiencing first hand guests receiving personalized service at hotels that made them feel at home, Celi decided to build a hotel that would provide a homey and relaxing experience.

INTRICATE INTERIORS An art deco inspired architecture by Roland Polenday creates a sophisticated work guests can enjoy. Interior designer, Andy Galutera brewed a masterpiece consisting of oversized classic furnishings and contemporary decors. Art flows deep in guestrooms with lobby art pieces and hand-painted walls by artist Gina Bocar.

A perfect blend of style and comfort defines every piece of room in Hotel Celéste. Guests can indulge in 5 opulent

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suites and 25 deluxe rooms; each with their own unique furnitures and mirrors.

WORLD CLASS AMENITIES The best of the world’s amenities are carefully crafted inside the glamorous halls of Hotel Celéste, providing an unrivalled living experience at the center of the city. Each room comes with a separate bedchamber complete with plush beddings, a living room area, 32” LCD HDTV w/ cable, in-room

safe, a dining area, coffee and tea making facilities, a kitchen, a “notso” minibar and a large marble tiled bathroom with freestanding bathtubs.

Each bathroom is stocked with L’Occitane toiletries.

Business meetings and presentations are in great shape thanks to the hotel’s own meeting room. Intimate parties or medium scale events are welcome, complemented with a roof deck that offers a panoramic view of the Makati business district.

A PRIME BOUTIQUE HOTEL THAT CARES Hotel Celéste believes that elegance shouldn’t sacrifice earth conservation. It is equipped with Solahart, a solar power system-water heater, which does not only maximize the hotel’s savings but helps the environment by preventing

less tonnes of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere. All areas in the hotel also use a light-emitting diode (LED) lights to conserve electricity.

Style meets responsibility—that is Hotel Celéste.

02 San Lorenzo Drive, Corner A. Arnaiz Avenue San Lorenzo Village, Makati City 1223 +63 2 887-8080/+63 2 887-8088 Email: info@hotelceleste.ph | reservation@hotelceleste.ph Website: www.hotelceleste.ph

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S CO PE | A ROUND TOWN

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CELEBRATING

PRISCILLA HUNT! WRITER

Yolanda Core Pastrana Joe Cobilla

PHOTOGRAPHER

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he Manhattan Beach Marriott Hotel in Manhattan Beach, California was the site of a fabulous event to honor Priscilla D. Hunt, President and CEO of Hunt Enterprises, Inc. Family and friends gathered in their finest Black and White formals to celebrate the Grand Dame’s 85 years of dynamic and generous lifestyle. Priscilla is the daughter of former Mayor Isidro Dulay of La Union and Laureana Pajarillo of Aklan. Priscilla and her husband Donald Hunt, are renowned for their philanthropy and advocacy for health care. A legacy established at the Torrance Memorial Medical Center with the unveiling of the Donald and Priscilla Hunt Nuclear Medicine Center and the Donald and Priscilla Hunt Cancer Institute in 2014.

She and her husband have contributed to the Torrance Memorial Medical Center by way of funding the Donald and Priscilla Hunt Cancer Institute and the Priscilla Hunt Nuclear Medicine Center. Hunt Enterprises is a privately owned real estate corporation which acquires, developes and manages residential, industrial and commercial properties in California.

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04

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Priscilla thanks her well wishers.

Bob and Mara Stone, Priscilla, Donna and Gary Stark The honoree escorted by son Ralph Moore.

Priscilla with Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Moore (Hilda Koronel)

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05. Pop Opera Prince Jonathan Badon with this writer, Ralph and Susan Moore.

06. William Simmons, Noelani Soma, Kaikoa Soma, Cynthia Soma, Sean Simmons and Ralph Simmons 07. Roman Mosqueda Esq, Judge Malcolm Mackey, Core Pastrana, Judge and Mrs. Mel Recana, Lily Ines, Rachel Mackey and Marcy Ines 08. Priscilla’s sisters Dory Prestige, Dolly Dyson, Connie Moore and niece, Linda Dulay 09. Brenda Nowotka, Susan and Ralph Moore, seated Sharon Almonte and Len Williams

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10. Balladeer Ryan Gallagher, Tess David and Brenda and Saxon Nowotka 11. Priscilla greets Mendrei and Cecile Leelin and Cora Oriel 12. Grandaughter Noelani Soma performing for grandma’s guests.

13. Jonathan Badon serenading Priscilla.

14. At center Ph Cinema’s Hilda Koronel.

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Three spectacular days for pleasure and profit!

2016

®

Trade and Cultural Show

Aug.12 • 7 pm

DoubleTree Hotel, Newark Airport, NJ

Aug.13 • 12noon

Aug.14 • 10am

Meadowland Expo Center, Secaucus, New Jersey

Trade Exhibitors International & Local Entertainers Cultural & Food Festival Free Workshops Fun Activities for All Ages To Sponsor, Exhibit and Attend, Contact (212) 682-6610 email: info@fiestainamerica.com

www.fiestainamerica.com A Production of Fiesta in America – A 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit corporation BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

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SCOP E | EVENT S

R

achelle Ocampo, a lissome 30-something born in New York, recalls the summers w h e n as a girl, she had to be dragged by her parents from the TV set to make the nearly two-hour trip from Long Island to Secaucus in New Jersey.

“I recall pouting all the way to what was then called Philippine Fiesta,” she mused.

“To my immigrant parents, the event was a really big deal back then. But to a girl who called Long Island home, it was a drag. Yup, until the fiesta started to grow on me.” Rachelle was in upperManhattan that day as a co-host of Makilala TV, billed as the first FilipinoAmerican TV talk show. “Never could I have imagined that, many years later, it will be my turn to haul my parents to the event, which has turned out to be a family tradition. Who knew?”

Makilala TV hosts Jen Furer and Crien Pastor could not resist jumping in: “And who could have imagined that the same girl will be taping a talk show with the ethnic event’s founder?”

Happy accident or not, Rachelle Ocampo was being interviewed that day in May this year by the Makilala TV hosts together with Nanding Mendez, President of Fiesta In America (the Philippine Fiesta of Rachelle’s youth has been rebranded as Fiesta In America in 2012).

On August 13 and 14, Fiesta In America will mark continuous operations of 18 years, the age usually celebrated in the Philippines as an individual’s “debut” into the adult world.

Mendez, a native of Manila, quipped as the talk show was about to start, “Fiestas are about re-connecting. Thanks to local festivities, relatives and neighbors who have not seen each other in years can re-cross their paths at town holidays.”

That day, Rachelle and Nanding literally closed the circle with what may be called their own personal fiesta.

Indeed, the open-arms gesature of Filipinos to all comers is the taproot of Fiesta In America. Over the past 17 years, it is has been known to more than 200,000 visitors as the biggest indoor consumer exposition of its kind on the east coast, certainly in the ethnic event-marketing category. Founded as

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A

COME S OF AGE IN AMERICA WRITER Len

the U.S.-Philippines Trade Show in 1996

by Nanding Mendez and his late wife, Mila Beltran Mendez (who passed in 2012), it was renamed as Philippine Fiesta in 1998. Since then, the extravaganza has carved a niche in American exposition marketing. The last available data showed that almost 125 million individuals attended all sorts of trade fairs in the United States. As Mendez sees it, Fiesta In America’s two-day gate of up to 14,000 visitors may not come close to the attendance at leading trade shows in Las Vegas, “but it is evidence of what mainstream business has long recognized: ethnic events can be a powerful tool in the marketing mix.” ________ The Meadowlands Exposition Center (MEC), its hulk attached to an indoor parking lot that fits 5,000 cars, has been home to Fiesta In America since 2001.

It boasts 61,000 square feet of exhibition and performance space. Near the main hall’s entrance are four seminar rooms, each with a seating capacity of around 50, which is ideal for business presentations, informative workshops, and sales seminars. AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) once hosted a workshop on financial security for Filipinos aged 50 and above, and a seminar on resources for Filipinos providing care for their elderly parents

Manansala

in the U.S. The workshop on elderly care was facilitated by General (Ret.) Antonio Taguba, an AARP spokesperson for the Asian American community and only the second Filipino to have reached the rank of general in the U.S. armed forces. AARP has been a major sponsor since 2013. Among blue-chip brands joining the sponsor roster in 2016 is Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, the state’s leading HMO. The People’s Ball, the expo’s companion gala, is held at the Hilton DoubleTree Hotel at Newark Liberty International Airport the Friday before the expo. Nanding Mendez said that the gala will celebrate its 10th year as a gathering of the “movers and shakers of the Filipino community.” A sweeping glimpse of the MEC’s interior casts an idea of what the expo would be like in the first morning, usually a Saturday in August. Sharply at 8 a.m., the first group of exhibitors arrives in a steady stream of hand trucks, dollies, and wheeled suitcase carts bearing cardboard boxes and overstuffed plastic bags. Everyone is pumped up for two days of on-thespot selling, hours cajoling consumers for their email addresses, highlighting products or services to everyone who approached the booth.

By 11 a.m., the box office is about ready to welcome the first ticket buyers.

Vicie Allam, Fiesta In America’s Finance Manager, is making a final once-over of her cash box and credit card machine.

Beside her, Coy Apostol, the Sponsor and Exhibitor Relations Manager, is going over the list of sponsors and their requirements, from extra badges to articles in the official magazine, Fiesta Talks.

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At 12 noon, dignitaries are milling around the exhibition hall entrance: Philippine and local American officials, civic association leaders, as well as the cultural show’s lead performers from the Philippine film, TV and music industries. As cameras flash, the blue-bowed ceremonial ribbon is cut, and gatekeepers start ushering in thousands of visitors. Scooting from VIP to concert host to sponsor is Nanding Mendez in his bespoke barong – the epitome of an Hermano Mayor in every fiesta that has been celebrated for ages back home. _______ The swirl of images grabs the observer with a tapestry of tropical colors and sensations of unusual textures, the din of the Taglish patois, indefinable aromas, obscure base materials. Along the middle aisles, visitors are engulfed with upright banners and posters of condominium high-rises, residential homes, and gated communities pushed by real estate representatives motivated by the buying clout of Filipinos (in New York and New Jersey, Filipinos have median family incomes of more than $92,000).

Alternating with resort and condo exhibitors are the booths of small exporters, the Trade Pavilion’s magnet for consumers eager load up on goods not found in U.S. stores. Displays are as varied as their towns of origin: mother-of-pearl wind chimes, jewelry boxes, handcrafted décor, accessories cleverly fashioned from the harvests of rain forests, farms, lakes and seas of the Philippine archipelago.

Competing for the consumer’s attention is a bevy of cosmetologists, mobile phone companies, massage centers, car dealers, remittance firms, banks, healthcare organizations…touting services that fit the needs of the deep-pocketed immigrant (Filipinos’ median household income is more than $20,000 higher than the U.S. median). Along the two sides of the main hall, fun activities are going on: painting lessons, children’s games,

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Nanding Mendez, President of Fiesta in America with Laura Garcia (Photo by Boyet Loverita)

c h e s s matches. As lunchtime beckons, the Food Court fills up with diners eager to sample provincial dishes that represent what out-of-towners can expect in a typical fiesta: a sumptuous, unending feast. _______ “Our cultural show has evolved from a purely Filipino extravaganza to what has been positioned, in the last five years, as a multicultural talent showcase,” said Ogie Afable, Fiesta in America Cultural Show Director. “Diverse forms of performance art are provided by a cross-cultural artist roster. So far, the audience has witnessed outstanding numbers by professional Chinese and Korean dance troupes; an award-winning singer from Shanghai; reggaeton song-and-dance from the Latino enclaves of the Bronx; and local-area show tune singers and rock bands.” The organization has given unknown performers a venue in which their skills can shine.

Throughout the years, Fiesta in America (www.fiestainamerica.com) has presented a virtual Who’s Who in Filipino show business: Amalia Fuentes, Romeo Vasquez, Pork Chop Duo, Gabby Concepcion, Fe de los Reyes, Cherie Gil, Eddie Mesa, Rico J. Puno, Ai-Ai de las Alas, Gary Valenciano, Pilita Corrales, Hotdog, Mitch Valdez, Nora Aunor, Lirio Vital, Bernardo Bernardo, Vilma Santos,

Aiza Seguerra, Jon Santos, Nanette Inventor, Leo Martinez, Faith Cuneta, Celeste Legaspi, Diether Ocampo, Ryan Agoncillo, Judy Ann Santos, Pops Fernandez, Piolo Pascual, Jun Polistico, Pokwang, Bea Alonzo, Dingdong Dantes, Marian Rivera, Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Shery Regis, Bugoy Drillon, Jake Cuenca, Angelica Panganiban, Laarni Lozada, Zsa-Zsa Padilla, Ariel, Melai Cantiveros, Jason Francisco, Ariel Rivera, Martin Nievera, Jericho Rosales, Edgar Allan Guzman, Vina Morales, Maxene Magalona and many others.

Real troopers, they reprise their electrifying opening-day performances for their fans the following day.

A 10 a.m. Sunday Mass on the concert stage greets the early comer with hymns in Tagalog. But the recessional’s somber notes are soon taken over by an excited tittering. From the workshop-cumdressing rooms emerge participants in the re-enactment of a fiesta’s crowning point: the Santacruzan. Reynas in full regalia, consorts in starched barongs, the winsome Reyna Elena, pretty girls in white, and boys dressed up as young Constantines lead the candlelight procession. The pageant, a tribute to the discovery of the true cross, may be out of place in the Meadowlands Expo Center. Fitting or not, the venue is a nod to timeless tradition: it has survived till the era of selfies-to-Facebook postings. _______ At Fiesta In America’s office on East 40th Street near New York’s Grand Central station, vestiges of the past are unceremoniously stored in boxes: announcement flyers, a citation here and there, brochures dating back 10 years. Beside Nanding Mendez is Laura Garcia, a winsome nurse-educator at New York Langone Medical Center who has been the lady in his life and confidante for the past 2 years.

“I am naturally glad that our event continues to grow after nearly 20 years,” Mendez stated. “But like any person who approaches his second decade, Fiesta In America’s whole life is ahead of it. As long as it can provide a market for small exporters and their products, tourism entrepreneurs and their resorts or hotels, and a future Broadway star from Edison in New Jersey, Fiesta In America will remain as fresh as an 18-year-old.” n

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SCOP E | TO U R I S M

Quality Travel Experience:

CHAMONIX TRAVEL & TOURS

SERVICES 01. Hotel Accommodation 02. Visa Assistance 03. Ticketing & Tour Packages · Local · International 04. Transportation Assistance · Cruises · Van and Car rentals · Bus services · Ferry

C

hamonix Travel Services of JLM Travel and Tours Agency started as a home-based family business in 2011. With well trained travel enthusiasts, Chamonix provides business coverage that specifically targets commercial areas in Better Living, Paranaque.

The origin of Chamonix is a place in France. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc (or Chamonix) is a resort area near the junction of France, Switzerland, and Italy. Renowned for its alpine skiing, Chamonix is located at the base of Mont Blanc, the highest summit in the Alps.

Year-round, cable cars take travelers up to several nearby peaks with impeccable panoramic views, including Aiguille du Midi, Pointe Helbronner on the Italian border, and Le Brévent. “This is where I got the name for my Travel Agency Business. It relates to a place that offers unique activities to the public,” shares Irene Herrera, CEO of Chamonix Travel Services.

OBJECTIVES Dedicated to the pursuit of meeting client’s total requirements as well as addressing employee needs, Chamonix operates on a policy of openness and honesty throughout its entire organization. Quality compensation packages are provided along with incentives that are rewarded to all their staff who perform well and exceed expectations.

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There are two main objectives that Chamonix Travel Services aims to fulfill.

The creation of more unique travel packages with different leisure activities are available to customers at a minimal expense. Therefore, the company provides high-quality yet affordable travel that is possible by giving just one phone call. Another objective is to strive for excellence in providing customer service. Being capable of providing aspiring home-based entrepreneurs with proper training will help them realize and achieve their travel business objectives.

MISSION & VISION Chamonix Travel Services’ mission aims to effect and deliver reliable

and high quality travel services to all clients locally and globally.

Chamonix negotiates with the best terms and conditions geared toward travel at low costs without compromising its value.

Another mission of the company is to aim promotion and recognition from Filipino tourist spots not only within the Philippine market but in an international perspective and in a larger sense help the development of the Philippine economy. To lead and be top of mind in the travel industry is a valuable vision of the company, striving to expand their presence in both the local and global markets.

Chamonix TravelPH

chamonixtravel

For more information contact us at (632) 8230957 / (632) 4046102 or 0916.2937892

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SCOP E | TO U R I S M

THE WOMAN BEHIND CHAMONIX

I “I will not allow myself to sit around and do nothing. Sharing knowledge to those who are interested in putting up their own company, especially housewives and entrepreneurial mothers, is an inspiration that will keep me happy with what I have accomplished with my company.�

-Irene Herrera

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rene Herrera is the president and chief executive officer of Chamonix Travel & Tour, a travel specialist and a passionate globetrotter. Irene’s love for travel is what prompted her into the travel industry where she is keen on helping people plan a vacation of a lifetime. She believes in helping her clients, whether larger or small, a customized vacation package that suit their particular interests and tastes. This includes arranging their accommodations, extra amenities, special services, and planned excursions.

Working in a travel agency entails a lot of rapport, connections, and social gatherings. Irene Herrera always sees to it that she is knowledgeable and fit enough to help her staff to develop and discover their hidden skills.

This love for independent travel has enabled Irene become the expert she is today at helping others plan their own FIT packages. When it comes to her staff she teaches them to attend to each customer with specialized itineraries that are based on their specific interests in order to plan a vacation that they will truly enjoy. Irene wants each employee to be customer oriented since she believes that this is the most important attitude for a travel agency company.

Irene envisions Chamonix as the leader in the Travel agency industry. In order to make this vision happen she plans to expand the presence of Filipinos in both the local and global travel markets. Another vision of hers would be recognized as the market leader in the travel industry as a contribution to the Philippine Department of Tourism.

Lastly, she aims to train others who are highly interested in putting up travel agencies.

“A daring, in depth approach to storytelling is the show’s hallmark style.”

PHILIPPINES

THE TELEVISION SERIES SHOWCASING THE MODERNIZATION, DEVELOPMENT, AND PROGRESSION OF THE PHILIPPINES. 01 Business I 02 Real Estate & Infrastructure Developments I 03 Travel Destinations 04 Arts, Design, Music, & Culture I 05 Restaurants & Bars I 06 The Nightlife I 07 People I 08 Events

THE PREMIER S EASON AIRING THIS SUMMER ON

USA

PHILIPPINES

PHILIPPINES

WORLDWIDE

WORLDWIDE

PROUDLY PRODUCED BY THE ASIAN JOURNAL MEDIA GROUP & 20 PLUS PRODUCTIONS, INC. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT INFO@ASIANJOURNALINC.COM. BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM 89

SCO PE | TOU RISM

SOUTHWEST TOURS (BO R AC AY ) I NC.

–“Book, board & relax”

P

lanning to go to the beach capital of the Philippines? The recognized pioneer tourist transport service in the province of Aklan, Southwest Tours (Boracay) Inc. (STBI) makes it more accessible to the tropical paradise of Boracay. The Aklanbased corporation started its operations way back in 1991; and eventually became a corporation in 1993. With more than 20 years in transport operations, STBI has rendered services to both local and foreign tourists and continutes to provide safe and hasslefree travel experience.

Among its devoted clienteles are top government o­fficials, beauty pageant participants, medical mission teams, corporate event attendees and local & international tourists. STBI assures all its clients with quality and friendly services. At present, STBI serves 90% of hotels and resorts in Boracay Island as well as approximately 200 travel agencies all over the Philippines. It has partnered with different airlines to ensure a seamless transport service.

SERVICES STBI has various packages to suit the diverse needs of its clients varying from land & sea transport to resort reservation.

BORACAY ISLAND SERVICES 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

Airport Transfer Land and Sea Transfer Hotel Reservation Island Activities Tour Packages Cruise Ship Ground Handler 24/7 Customer Service Assistance 24/7 Metered Taxi

It provides full transfer assistance to passengers from their first step out of Kalibo International Airport and/ or Caticlan Airport to their respective destinations in any point of Panay and the island of Boracay. STBI has exclusive buses, coasters, vans, motorized boats, multicabs and tricycles to take guests to their destinations. Coordinators and well trained staff are always ready to assist guests and facilitate all transportation requirements to any point in the island. Special transfer requests can be accommodated through STBI’s charter services.

Use this code to avail our special discount!

CODE: S W B a l i k b a y a n 2 0 1 6

SOUTHWEST TOURS (BORACAY), INC. is located at Jaime Cardinal Sin Ave., Andagao, Kalibo, Aklan For Inquiries and reservations, email bookings@southwesttoursboracay.com or call Kalibo Reservations Office SMART: (STBI-ONLINE) (+63) 947 8911 658 | GLOBE: (STBI-ONLINE) (+63) 917 5682 441 | HOTLINE: (036) 268 5100

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SCOP E | AMAZ I NG P L ACE S

FLYING FIESTA Experience an exhilarating swing ride on the Flying Fiesta.

Guests get the feel of flying as the rotation speed of the 52 swing seats that increase while a wave motion is created by gradual lifts, drops, and tilts. Parent and child will have a thrilling and memorable ride on the tandem seats.

SPACE SHUTTLE A thrilling rollar coaster that turns guests upside-down 6 times forward and 3 times backward all in two minutes.

The Space Shuttle consists of 28 seats in 7 coaches to choose from, guests will surely experience the exhilirating encounter with gravity.

FIND THE MAGIC WITHIN

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here are many things in our world that can make us happy, such as going to the movies with friends, a sale at your favorite store, or winning a game of monopoly. However, in the tropical country of the Philippines, and approximately 36.5 kilometers from the busy streets of Metro Manila, lies a place that can make us happier than ever. This magical place goes by the name of “Enchanted Kingdom”. EK’s top-tier placement in the hierarchy of happiness is simply due to it being an amusement park. Who wouldn’t love and enjoy hurtling down roller coasters, eating candy floss, and watching amazing performances all in one day?

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AIR RACE Air Race boasts of six acrobatic planes that can fly four passengers each. It is famous for its simulation of acrobatic exhibition flights, this thriller ride banks, loops, dives, and mimics weightlessness as each plane rotates either 180o or 360o while revolving around a central tower.

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THE GRAND CAROUSEL The Grand Carousel is Enchanted Kingdom’s elegant and dashing centerpiece that greets guests upon their entry to the theme park. This attraction features 60 Victorian horses and 2 Chariots inlaid with goddesses and cherubs, the ride takes guests back to the Victorian era.

SWAN LAKE Pedal through a slow paced boat ride at the Swan Lake on a swan-shaped boat around the large pond for a relaxing chat, away from the bustling excitement of the park.

This is perfect for sweet little escapes from the kids.

RIALTO 4D This real-life attraction re- opened its doors on October 17th as part of EK’s 20th Anniversary offerings, the Rialto motion simulator theater has been upgraded with the latest in 4D technology for an enhanced and ultimate theater experience.

EKSTREME TOWER This thrill ride offers guests a breathtaking yet terrifying view of the expanse circling Enchanted Kingdom. The EKstreme Tower takes the rider a minute to get to the top almost 40 meters high before the sudden drop at 76 kph. This attraction will leave you screaming your lungs out for more.

1995 in the City of Santa Rosa, Laguna, boasting of rides and attractions never before seen in the country in terms of variety, size, and magnitude.

ATTRACTIONS BEHIND THE NAME “Enchanted Kingdom” was the success of a focus group discussion and survey that was conducted by the proponents among the target market when the project was still in its infancy.

The establishment chose “Enchanted Kingdom” as the desired title that would connote something that was whimsical and magical, a similar feeling to being in another dimension. EK’s objective is to transport guests into a land or environment that is very divergent from their everyday way of life.

BRIEF HISTORY The concept of the magical world of EK started with a simple dream brought to life by Cesar Mario O. Mamon and Rafaelito E. Minguez in 1992. These two men dreamt and perceived a kingdom where people can feel the fun and magic to escape from everyday’s formidable and challenging world of reality. “Out of the blue, suntok sa buwan (punch to the moon), the first thing that came to our mind was our kids who were growing up and how theme parks were limited in the country. Glicos Entertainment

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Center in Makati was just starting out that time, and we realized there was an opportunity for a fixed amusement facility that is more in the mold of Disneyland or Knott’s Berry Farm. A destination which would not just be a consolidation of rides, but a park with a story, characters and zones, which people will enjoy as an escape from reality,” recalled Mr. Mamon.

In 1993, the business partners Mario and Rafaelito purchased 17 hectares of land, for their magical kingdom which will be the first of its kind in the Philippines.

It can be seen along the highway and is just a half hour drive from Metro Manila. They sought advices from both local and international experts and consultants to administer world-class construction and execution. Landmark Entertainment is a global entertainment design firm that creates theme parks, attractions, and virtual reality that modeled the theme park after the Knott’s Berry Farm in California. The goal was to create a fantasy land yet feel the warmth and comfort of a home.

The Philippines’ iconic theme park first opened to the public on October 19,

EK has become one of the most sought after venues for personal, corporate and school events, and field trips. The theme park boasts themed entertainment that are divided in several park zones that can accommodate up to 25,000 visitors a day.

The best reason for Balikbayans to come and visit Enchanted Kingdom is to be able to have a unique venue where they can bring family and friends to celebrate homecomings and reunions or any other memorable occasions.

“Enchanted Kingdom welcomes “balikbayans” (returning to country) and “kababayans” (fellow countrymen), home to their native Philippines. Be sure to include them in your itinerary when visiting the Philippines as they can offer you and your loved ones a unique and entertaining venue for homecomings and reunions. Best of all, we have special packages for Balikbayans just like you!”

For more information, contact us at (632) 584 3535, (632) 584 4326 to 29 or visit our site at www.enchantedkingdom.ph

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WINE & DINE

TASTE OF HOME UNDOUBTEDLY INGENIOUS, the food scene in the Philippines is a constantly evolving art. The tasteful play on foreign flavors and unusual ingredients pushes traditional, Filipino cuisine to global heights in places—plates, rather—we’ve never seen before. And because the recent the Madrid Fusión Manila was nothing short of inspiring, we’ve rundown a few of some of the most nostalgic comfort food prepared with the most unexpected twists.

AT A GLANCE: Under the theme, Manila Galleon: East Meets West, the 2nd year of Madrid Fusión paid homage to the exchange of ingredients influence as much as the influence of cooking techniques unique to varying cultures.

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BRULEED CARABAO’S MILK SOAKED HONEY CAKE WITH SALTED BUTTER

By Chef Nikki Misa & Chef Kristine Lotilla Highlighting the distinctive taste of honey produced from the nectar of flowers growing in the lush lands of Palawan and Pangasinan, this stunning plate of delectable goodness is a sophisticated take on a best-loved dessert.

TAPSILOG

By Via Mare Deceitfully resembling a typical spring roll, this playful way of serving the Filipino favorite tapsilog (tapa, sinangag, itlog) is a practical way of eating this breakfast staple. Best enjoyed with a dip of vinegar.

PATA NEGROS, MACARON, SMOKED KESONG PUTI MOUSSE

By Chef Margarita Forést Asia’s Best Female Chef 2016 Grace Pork, Lusso, Cibo and Alta Tasting as fancy as it looks, you taste the individual flavor melding together in a perfect mix of culinary revelation: from the distinct texture of the sweet macaron, the slice of meat melts with the tang of the cheese mousse in a perfect symphony.

CHAMPORADO

By Chef Jayme Natividad Terraza

LA PAZ BATCHOY ICE CREAM Yes. Who would’ve thought of creating this Iloilo delicacy into a dessert? Oddly tasting like an actual batchoy, this ice cream is like a serving of both dessert and main course.

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Served on a wooden bowl, this classic, chocolate porridge is a serving of nostalgia.

While the richness of cacao satisfies your sweet cravings, the saltiness for the fried tuyo (sardines) gives a bite of character from the chocolate-and-milk pairing.

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SUMMER M A N I L A

F A S H I O N

2016 T R E ND S :

Your guide to this season’s hottest pieces inspired by Fashion Week 2016 trends seen on the runways of Paris, Milan, Tokyo, and New York WRITER

Charisse Trinidad

PHOTOGRAPHER

Noel Ty

BRA-LIKE TOPS AND BANDEAUS We’ve been seeing a whole lot of the ‘90s style bra tops, except with a flatter, more sporty style. Often worn on their own, other times with sweaters or long sleeved sheer tops underneath, as was the case at Dries Van Noten. In cities that hold the best fashion shows, wearing sleepwear as outerwear was the common trend, in Paris it was all about the bras worn on top. The sheer cover-up is sexy, elegant and utterly ladylike. Gucci came in with some transparent but beautifully colored looks while the bandeaus appear time and again on the sportier designs of Moschino.

MAXI DRESSES AND SKIRTS There’s a plethora of maxi dresses on the runway for the Spring Summer collection. Mark Jacobs falls into this category with his diver with amethyst hued side slit skirts, though earth certainly comes into play at BCBG Max Azria.

We see the maxi dresses and skirts everywhere, from the pleated Stella McCartney to the interesting prints on the Valentino collection, especially those that have a distinctive old Roman look to them.

It is one of the biggest Summer 2016 fashion trends seen on the runway and is the newest hot item in the Manila Fashion scene this summer. Showing off with those off-the-shoulder styles is a great way to flaunt some feminine flair without being too revealing.

PEEKABOO BLACK PIECES Black pieces allow us to see a whole lot more. The black is featured in nearly every collection, with sheer paneling, cutouts, lace aspects, spider web details and other ideals. It is sexy, it is playful and is100 anything but ordinary.

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MODELS: JANELS MOLINA & CHESTER MANZANO

BARED SHOULDERS

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Image sources: http://cdn.fashionisers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/spring_summer_2016_fashion_trends_bra_like_crop_tops_ bandeaus.jpg | http://thebestfashionblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Bohemian-Fashion-Trends-2015-10.jpg

SIDE SLITS Most girls this summer have been going crazy over showing some thigh, especially on those long skirts and dresses as they begin to wrap around the legs. There is something infinitely gorgeous about the side slit, something that has continued on from the past seasons and looks to want to keep its place on the runway. It appears in some rather strange layers as per Marc Jacobs, the skirts in a shiny purple and blue coloring, while Anthony Vaccarello seems to revel in showing off a lot of leg with those shimmering red slip dresses that seem to be slashed from the side.

GYPSET FOR SUMMER

GORGEOUS LACE

Bohemian touches, Moroccan glamour and floating silhouettes make gypsetting one rather interesting trend for this summer. Free spirits appear on the Rachel Zoe runway, alongside the prairie dresses from Coach, the gorgeous designs from Tommy Hilfiger, and the intriguing combinations of white and aubergine at Anna Sui. Long legs are shown at Naeem Khan and the dresses float about at the Rebecca Taylor show, while it gets a bit modern Hawaiian with the Reem Acra collection. Add Rodarte, Tory Burch, and Diane von Furstenberg to the mix and you have quite the trendsetters.

MODEL: MK VICTORINO

It might be in line with the more romantic fashion trends for 2016, be it Victorian or modern, Prairie or not, but the lace looks are huge on the runways.

It appears on gorgeous romantic floral printed and side layered dresses, as well as full pieces made of lace at Rodarte, that show off sleepwear as outerwear with positive delight, lace appearing in both black and white. The lace was very much in our faces and we would not have had it any other way from the floral appliques added at Topshop to the added volumes at Preen.

A WHOLE LOT OF TRANSPARENT We’ve been seeing transparent looks for quite a while now so it comes as no surprise that we should be faced with translucent dresses, skirts and tops for this summer season as well. This includes floral print skirts from Marc Jacobs, crochet ensembles from Dolce & Gabbana, miniskirts from Miu Mui showing off panties that match the shirt on top and gorgeous sheer pantyhose with lovely designs as seen at Rodarte.

THE SPORTY ATMOSPHERE This summer season is more about comfort and relaxed looks than anything else we feel, which includes a sportier edge such as the tiedyed army colors on the Valentino pullover or the very bright silver track sets found on the Lacoste runway. Single piece coveralls come up on the Balenciaga runway, flailing straps around, while sports are very much on the mind at Baja East.

SPECIAL THANKS TO James Paul, Designer; Allen Chen, Fashion Associate; Janels Molina, Chester Manzano and MK Victorino, models; Soenny Lime, hair & make-up, Polarity Physiotherapy Center

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