BalikBayan Magazine April & May 2015

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

I s s u e 4 2 , Vo l u m e VI APRIL / may 2015

AMORITA

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

BALESIN

AN ISLAND HIDEAWAY IN THE TROPICAL PARADISE OF BUSUANGA, PALAWAN

INSIDE QUEZON PROVINCE’S EXCLUSIVE, LUXURY RESORT

MALASIMBO

PUERTO GALERA’S ANNUAL FEAST OF MUSIC, ART, AND NATURE

THE TRIBES CALLED MANGYAN

MANAOAG

PUERTO GALERA’S CULTURE SHAPERS

THE COUNTRY’S NEWEST MINOR BASILICA

April / May 2015

BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

3

S P ECI A L A D V E RT I S ING F E AT U R E

CANYON DE BORACAY PREMIERE A SURE-FIRE REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT

I

s the Philippine property market at risk of a real estate bubble? With the countless office buildings and high-rise condominiums rising around the metro, the bubble is yet to burst. According to CBRE Philippines, a real estate advisory and services firm, the country’s real estate sector is expected to remain strong beyond 2016.

Moreover, the outlook for the industry remains bullish with the ASEAN Economic Integration in 2015.

Considering this, investing your money in real estate is a good decision. But which is the best investment?

The advent of “condotels” have redefined the concept of condominiums. From the two words combined, it is a condominium project, which is operated as a hotel offering short-term rentals complete with a registration desk, cleaning service and more amenities. The units are individually owned and automatically leased back to the developer, where it is then rented out like any other hotel room. Unlike condominiums, condotel owners don’t need to pay condo dues, maintenance fees and real property taxes. These factors make it a better investment option for Filipinos outside the country.

There are already a number of condotels in Metro Manila due to the city’s expat population. But tourism in the rural regions of the Philippines serves as a considerable option for condotel investments.

Boracay, the country’s most visited tourist destination, expects millions of visitors every year. Last year, almost 1.4 million visitors flocked to this acclaimed island.

Reports show that hotel accommodations experience 90 percent occupancy level during peak season and at least 70 percent during off-season.

For inquiries, visit their main office at 2nd and 3rd Floor, ACT Tower, 135 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Salcedo Village, Makati City or give them a call at (632) 892-9827.

For2015 more information, go to g2globalinc.com/canyon-de-boracay-premiere.

BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM April / May 41227, Canyon de Boracay Premiere is currently in its pre-selling stage, for queries, email property@g2globalinc.com.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Canyon de Boracay Premiere is an upcoming condotel that will bring the convenience and luxury of the urban lifestyle.

Pioneering the mixed-use development in the premier beach island of the country, Canyon de Boracay Premiere sets the standards high when it comes to condotels. It is a 6,500-square meter property located in Station 1 and has 264 spacious units of all types and sizes, from Junior Suites to Executive, to suit all residential needs.

Touting convenience, Canyon de Boracay Premiere will include an air-conditioned, grand supermarket located on its lower ground floor—a first in Boracay. It will also have a restaurant, multi-level bars, a gym and its own mall. Cool down at the pool encircled by a green setting on the third floor.

HOTEL ROOM FLOOR PLAN

Approximately 300 meters away from the pristine beaches, going out to enjoy the paradise of waves and tropical vibe will never be a hassle.

Canyon de Boracay Premiere is a guaranteed income generating investment. All its investors will enjoy a regular 40 percent of the annual rental income plus an automatic 14-night complimentary accommodation in any of the Canyon Hotel & Resorts. The developer can immediately award investors to legally own a titled condominium after full payment.

SHOPPING MALL FLOOR PLAN

A Premiere Development of

G2 Global, Inc. US office 1405 Huntington Ave., Suite 310 South San Francisco, CA 94080 650-615-9800 G2 Global, Inc. is a diversified company engaged in real estate development, hotels, condotels and resorts, and educational institutions. The Gilmore Tower (New Manila, Quezon City), Ridgewood Towers (Taguig City), Canyon Woods Residential Resort (Tagaytay), Cove Hotel & Spa (Nasugbu, April / MayCanyon 2015 BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM Batangas), are just some of its projects.

5

TRAVEL

HUMA

Built on an enclave blessed with abundant marine life, startling white beaches and a lush rainforest landscape, Huma Island Resort & Spa is the newest and most spectacular Maldivian-inspired island resort nestled in Busuanga, Palawan.

56

45

52 BALESIN

Enter Balesin Island Club, a 500-hectare paradise with 7.3 kilometers of pristine white sand beaches, located 21 kilometers southwest of Polillio, Quezon province.

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BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

April / May 2015

AMORITA

Intimate. Personal. Stunning. Discover one of Bohol’s most breathtaking paradises and indulge in the world-class amenities and congenial hospitality.

Photo: Jaime Cumagun — PHOTOGRAPH BY JAIME CUMAGUN

April / May 2015

BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

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CONTENTS

HISTORY MANAOAG: BLESSING WITH A MISSION

CULTURE

ARTS & MUSIC

FOOD

THE TRIBES CALLED MANGYAN Get to know the culture shapers of Puerto Galera and their quest to preserve tradition and history.

Page 93

THE MAGIC BEHIND THE MYSTICAL MT. MALASIMBO Discover another year of the esteemed international music, art, dance, and nature festival.

Page 97

IZAKAYA KENTA: AN AUTHENTIC GASTRONOMIC EXPERIENCE With the diverse selection of amazing restaurants in Metro-Metro, Balikbayan shares this must-try authentic Japanese restaurant.

Page 73

SCOPE

8

OUTLOOK

FROM THE EXECUTIVE’S DESK

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

HOW’S THE ECONOMY? Is the recent economic boom in the country enough to keep investors optimistic?

Page 20

SOARING HIGH Dean Cambe shares his secrets for success in the aviation industry.

Page 35

SUMMER ESSENTIAL Ready for summer? We’ve preselected some of the best must-haves this summer.

Page 55

PORTFOLIO

FOOD

PREMIER REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT & DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Introducing Montemaria Sanctuary, a 130-hectare development just a few minutes away from the central district of Batangas City.

Page 25

TASTE OF SUMMER As the warmest season of the year kicks off, check out these cool summer treats that will surely remind you of summer.

Page 79

BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

April / May 2015

SUMMER GLOW Love your skin. From skin regimens to a proper diet and exercise, Dr. Kaycee Reyes of Luminisce sits down with BalikBayan Magazine to share her fail-proof advice on keeping your skin healthy and glowing this summer.

Page 89

PHOTO CREDITS: (BOTTOM 3 PHOTOS: L-R) JACOB MAENTZ, BEA PUERTOLLANO, NOEL TY

A few months before the Papal visit in the Philippines, the hundred-year-old church of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Manaoag in Pangasinan was granted the title ‘Minor Basilica.’

Learn more about the recognition and the mission that comes with it.

Page 66

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MONTEBELLO LILAC TWINS Heavenly abode in the countryside

A

mere 60 to 90-minute drive south of Manila will take you to where the earth and sky converge. When the best of these two worlds meet, one can consider it the best place to call home. Crafted, landscaped and breathed into life by both man and nature, your dream home is right within your reach.

LILAC TWINS UNVEILED Located amidst sprawling greens in the mountain ridge of Alfonso, Cavite, Montebello launched its main house model - Lilac Twins on February 28, 2015. The duplex bungalow represents the modern countryside living not just with its up-to-date design but also its sharp interior.

Each half of the ‘twin’ covers a gross floor area of 72.05 squaremeter comprising two bedrooms, one bathroom, service or drying area, a veranda, foyer entrance, garden, and a carport. Rest assured that you’ll get the privacy and space without intruding or disturbing your neighbor on the other side of the duplex with its soundproofed duplex common wall.

Lilac Twins is also a senior citizen and PWD (Persons With Disabilities)-friendly home. They need not walk up any step since it’s a one-storey unit. The veranda is near the carport, making wheelchairs more accessible to enter straight in.

FUNCTIONAL PREMIUM This ideal home with the most picturesque and tranquil canvasses for Earth comes with a reasonable price. In a place where big developments are fast growing around the area, homeowners will maximize the money value spent for a residence.

MONTEBELLO: MOUNTAIN NATURE COUNTRYSIDE SCENERY Literally meaning “beautiful mountain,” Montebello - the newest among Don Tim’s communities boasts its breathtaking view of Mt. Batulao. The hectare is a ranchthemed village with 515 lots to choose from, ranging from 150 to 368 square meters, envisioned to be a residential resort to provide its residents a relaxed country lifestyle with its ideal location and recreational amenities.

Among the village features and highlights are multi-purpose Clubhouse with balcony, view deck and other facilities, water fountain, 25 meters lap adult swimming pool, kiddie pool, children’s playground, gazebos, basketball court, and amphitheater. Montebello also caters after sales management of property and maintenance.

Montebello is one of the projects of Don Tim Development Corporation, DTDC, a property development firm that provides Filipino families functional-premium housing communities at value-for-money packages. DTDC now offers second homes in these first-rate locations.

Lilac Twins grand launching on February 28, 2015 For more information, visit www.dontim.com.ph, or like us on Facebook @DonTimDevelopmentCorp.

April / May 2015 For inquiries, call +632 8439471 | +63 917 8258435, or email dontimco@gmail.com.

BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

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BB DIGITAL

FOLLOW US! SNAPSHOT

INSTAGRAM

La Dulce Vida Have travel stories to share? Post a photo of your Dream Getaway on Facebook and tag @BalikbayanMagazine. Most stunning photo will be featured on our June-July issue.

Enjoying good food with a romantic sunset Amorita, Bohol

@rjoriel | Editor-in-Chief Lechon just arrived #Pangasinan

@missmportez | Managing Editor Personalized welcome note from the Amorita staff. Such a sweet and warm gesture to start the staycation.

Page 52

Photograph: Jaime Cumagun

YOUTUBE

INBOX

GOT TRAVEL STORIES TO SHARE?

@christinaoriel | Features Editor Discover the beauty of Huma Island Resort & Spa Page 56

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April / May 2015

Art meets good music at the annual Malasimbo Festival in the beautiful island of Mindoro. Watch exclusive interviews and behind-the-scene footage by Balik Bayan Magazine’s travel correspondents.

Subscribe to youtube.com/BalikBayanMagazine

Send your dream travel stories to balikbayanmag@gmail.com to join our pool of wanderlust correspondents.

April / May 2015

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Resorts World Manila

is shaping up to be Asia’s theater mecca

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

For the past several years, I’ve been continuously thinking about these 3 questions: What do Balikbayans care most about in the Philippines?

What do Balikbayans want to know and learn?

What do Balikbayans do when they come back to the Philippines?

The topics we feature in Balikbayan Magazine are so much more than places to go to, destinations to discover, inspiring personal stories, food to taste, events to experience, and investment opportunities to capitalize from. The magazine is about the triumphs of our growing nation. All of these breathtaking structures and brilliant businesses and personalities are things we are proud of—because this is who we are—brilliant, analytical, and imaginative people.

We hope to connect the Philippines with not just Filipinos throughout the world, but all people from all walks of life. It’s quite the lofty goal, but it matters to us—it’s what drives us. Everyone who works at Balikbayan Magazine and the Asian Journal Publications share a mission and advocacy to empower, inform, and promote the Filipino culture and the Philippines—it’s actually a requirement— because simply put, our work matters to us and each publication is a testament to this notion.

When we created this company almost 24 years ago, the world was so different then.

The overseas community was not even close to the 10 million it is now worldwide. Today, the Filipino-American population is nearly

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3 and a half million making it the 2nd largest Asian-American population with even the 2nd highest median income in the entire nation.

It is no longer uncommon to see American corporations curtailing their advertisements in Tagalog with the sincere hopes of building a relationship with this vibrant, successful community.

The other day I was at Island Pacific and Seafood City (both Filipino owned supermarket chains) in the US and I saw nonFilipinos walking out with their groceries and taking along with them a copy of the Asian Journal newspaper. It was interesting. I thought to myself, “What is their connection to the Philippines? Why do they shop here?

Why do they read the Asian Journal? What is their experience with Filipinos? Have they been to the Philippines? Are they looking to retire there?” A host of questions continue to race in my mind.

Our vision and company goal has never once changed. I can’t help but correlate the growth our company has made with how the Philippines is growing. Like the Philippines, we too have to push ourselves and modernize, innovate, and look ahead. It is not something that we fear or are apprehensive about, but rather, it is something that we embrace— something that is both very exciting and challenging as we continue to serve our readers.

Indeed, there is value in struggle—to turn those struggles and tough times and to use it as motivation to create something beautiful and meaningful. That is why, in this issue,

we offer you the stories of three of some of the most beautiful resorts in the country, Huma Island in Busuanga, Palawan, Balesin Island in Quezon, and Amorita Resort in Bohol. Read and see why these 3 resorts in 3 different islands embody the Filipino essence of triumph and beauty.

So when I think about what Balikbayans care most about, I’m really thinking, how can we better serve you? When we feature a luxury resort here in the Philippines—don’t think about how we are featuring this luxury resort in the hopes of encouraging you to go and vacation there. Instead, think about how it is a must see 10-star, world-class, and once in a lifetime destination in the world. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of beautiful hotels and resorts throughout the country.

But how can we make a foreigner choose the Philippines over Thailand, Japan, or any other country for their vacation? I suppose first and foremost, we must think, how can we make you, the Balikbayans, choose the Philippines over any other country for your travels? — And that is our goal. If we can make 1 person choose to invest, retire, or explore in the Philippines, then we have succeeded. And I hope you continue to join us in this goal of challenging and pushing the Philippines to reach new heights in the next 24, 50, and 1,000 years.

Roger L. Oriel Publisher & CEO Asian Journal Publications, Inc.

CATHAY LAND

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RAPHAEL JOHN C. ORIEL / RJ.ORIEL@ASIANJOURNALINC.COM

OUTLOOK

TODAY, MORE THAN HALF OF REMITTANCE GOES TOWARD REAL ESTATE-RELATED SPENDING. IN 2014, REMITTANCE CLIMBED TO A RECORD HIGH OF $24.3 BILLION.

STATUS UPDATE:

HOW’S THE ECONOMY? ommercials with DiCaprio, De Niro, and Scorsese endorsing a 5-star casino and resort? Another high-rise commercial building? A residential tower with Missoni interior? Shake Shack is coming to the Philippines? Wait, Ladurée, the French luxury bakery is coming too? Dean & Deluca?

I wish they had Ippudo here—wait, there’s an Ippudo here? Is it open? Tara! Was that a billboard for One Direction or Juan Direction? Is that Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady? Is that helicopter going to land on the beach? Where am I!?!

These are just some of the shock and awe questions, encounters, double (sometimes triple) takes I’ve had to do seemingly on a daily, if not hourly, basis. Every single day is different— something new is opening, coming, being planned, envisioned—you name it. It’s truly an exciting time for an exciting country; for some, but not all. With all of these modern developments, how are local, average working class Filipino families doing? What has the economic transgression meant for them? Are their lives improving? Are they able to partake in all the fun and afford $3 coffees every morning?

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“...REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS WILL SPEND $6.8 BILLION (PHP 300 BILLION) IN 2015. NEVER BEFORE SINCE THE ECONOMIC BOOM OF THE 1950S HAVE PHILIPPINE DEVELOPERS BEEN ON A BUILDING SPREE...”

Well, let’s take a look.

In the past several years, the public and private sectors have made a concerted effort to build, build, and build. What were once countless strips of “unproductive” land has quickly become the foundation for economic marvels such as the Mall of Asia, Solaire, City of Dreams, and the future Resorts World Bayshore. The former US Military Base, Fort Bonifacio is now home to Google, JP Morgan, some the world’s top advertising agencies like Ogilvy and BBDO, Globe Telecom, 9 Starbucks branches (as of this writing), and even the Balikbayan Magazine office.

It is apparent that the country is changing—or rather, has changed. Take a walk Monday to Sunday at anytime along High Street in Bonifacio Global City (simply BGC or The Fort) and you will surely find scores of people eating, shopping, socializing, or in a business meeting discussing the next big thing. Walk a few more blocks and you’ll see the Pottery Barn, Rolex, and Banana Republic. Walk another block and you’ll see the Lamborghini dealership. Look up and the magnificent Shangri-La Hotel and Residences will grace the skyline. More and more cities such as BGC throughout Metro Manila and the rest of the country are springing up left and right

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“...THE PHILIPPINES NOW HAS THE 2ND FASTEST GROWING ECONOMY NOT JUST IN ASIA, BUT IN THE ENTIRE WORLD. ACCORDING TO A RECENT BLOOMBERG SURVEY OF ECONOMISTS, THE PHILIPPINES WILL ONLY BE SECOND TO CHINA IN TERMS OF ECONOMIC GROWTH OUT OF A TOTAL OF 57 COUNTRIES INCLUDED IN THE REPORT...” (go visit Davao, Cebu, or even just Quezon City now and you’ll be pleasantly surprised).

Recently, this past March, the ratings agency, Fitch, reaffirmed that the Philippines is “stable” and said that the “upside” and “downside” risks to the country’s score are “well balanced.”

Fitch cited the country’s strong macroeconomic performance, its favorable external position, and the liquidity in the financial system. However, the report went on to note that, “The steady inflow of worker remittances and growth of the business process outsourcing industry underpins the country’s economic growth.”

The Philippines now has the 2nd fastest growing economy not just in Asia, but in the entire world. According to a recent Bloomberg survey of economists, the Philippines will only be second to China in terms of economic growth out of a total of 57 countries included in the report. “The world is expected to grow 3.2 percent in 2015 and 3.7 percent next year after expanding 3.3 percent in the past two years. China, the Philippines, Kenya, India and Indonesia, which together make up about 16 percent of global gross domestic product, are all forecasted to grow more than 5 percent in 2015,” Bloomberg noted. Once labeled as the “Sick Man of Asia,” the Philippines is getting healthier, but is not 100%.

Ok, so the financial system seems to be doing well, but what about real estate?

There seems to be no letup in Metro Manila’s record building boom despite growing glut concerns among local and foreign investors. How concerned should they be?

There are now an estimated 55,000 residential units that will come onto the market in this year alone according to the broker CBRE Group. This doesn’t even account for the units already available on the market. Led by the Megaworld Corporation and Ayala Land Inc., according to Savills Plc, real estate developers will spend $6.8 Billion (Php300 billion) in 2015.

Never before since the economic boom of the 1950s have Philippine developers been on a building spree and this is largely in part to two well established things fueling the economy: the influence of your remittance (thank you, Balikbayans!) and the Business Process Outsourcing industry (thank you strong command of the English language!).

Remittances from Filipinos working abroad have spurred real estate investments. And the growing glut concerns is because the market needs more time to absorb the expected record supply of new units (after all, it takes time to decide on buying a new home for either your portfolio, vacation, or retirement). Rental yields will be 3-4% in 2015 according to the KMC Mag Group, noting that since 2011, rental yields have indeed averaged 5%. Colliers International UK Plc anticipates prices of Metro Manila residential condominiums to rise another 6% this year from the 5% gains it made last year to Php110,000–180,000 per square meter.

Comparatively speaking, Tokyo is upwards of $10,000 per square meter whereas Manhattan is roughly $15,000. But just think—those

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cities are already fully developed. What will Metro Manila look like in the next 10, 15, or even just 2 years down the road? How much will real estate be once all of these modern developments from new roads, freeways, casinos, condos, hotels, malls, and a new international airport are completed?

According to Megaworld Senior-Vice President Jericho P. Go, there has been no slow down in demand whatsoever and as a result, Megaworld will spend upwards of Php230 billion in the next four years to build townships across the nation such as their Iloilo Business Park, Mactan Newtown, Boracay Newcoast, Uptown Bonifacio, to the Davao Park District, to name just a few.

Mr. Go notes that the 10 million Filipinos working overseas who can afford to invest is the key market that is driving the demand.

Today, more than half of remittance goes toward real estaterelated spending. In 2014, remittance climbed to a record high of $24.3 billion (this is why I strongly believe we should have a National Holiday for Balikbayans. Imagine $24.3 billion out of the economy. The entire country would suffer. In fact, email me, let’s decide on what day you want and let’s make it happen!). If you really think about it, it’s the Filipino who is the country’s greatest export.

So what does all of this economic growth mean for the working class Filipino family and the millions of fresh college graduates and young professionals? Jobs. Looking at the infographic on the right, you can see that employment figures indicate a stronger Philippine jobs market in January 2015 compared to last year—over a million people joined the workforce. What you can really find interesting is the huge rise of employment generated in the services industry, which is largely connected to the Department of Tourism’s goal to reach 10 million tourists by 2016 and the rise of the BPO industry. (However there is currently a shortage of 35,000 hotel rooms nationwide. Turn your condo into a condotel—AirBnB style!) But looking deeper, the agriculture sector actually decreased. Did you know the Philippines imports rice? Let’s read that again: Did you know the Philippines imports rice? Go to the grocery store and see how many of the products are actually made in the Philippines.

In the US, healthcare professionals are the key investor for real estate (after all, healthcare is recession proof ), in the Philippines however, not so much. According to payscale.com, the median annual salary of nurses is Php120,689. In the US, nurses can make that 120,689 figure (and more so), but in US dollars. Today, it is not uncommon to meet real estate or call center agents who have nursing degrees as there are no nurse shortages here unlike in the US, Canada, or other parts of the world. So when you read about how great the economy is doing in the Philippines, you can surely believe it. But keep in mind; it’s not a status update for everyone, just yet. The BPO industry and remittances explain GDP growth, but in no way does it raise living standards or drive inclusive growth. So, how’s the economy? As in every country, it depends on whom you ask.

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SCOPE PORTFOLIO

PREMIER REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS & DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Your Key to the Real Estate World

SERVICES

I. RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

FINANCING

III. COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

SALES & MARKETING II. INCOME PROPERTY

I. FEASIBILITY STUDY

IV. VACANT LAND

II. LOAN PACKAGING

V. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

---

---

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT

I. RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

I. RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

II. COMMERCIAL &

II. COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

III. JOINT VENTURES

III. INCOME PROPERTY

IV. LIMITED PARTNERSHIP

WORDS Maria Nimfa Nadtja H. Villaver PHOTOGRAPHS Noel Ty

Real estate in the Philippines is set to boom in 2015. With the continuous growth of the property sector, more doors will open to both developers and investors. For developers, this is the best time to showcase their properties to the emerging Filipino-American and Balikbayan market. For investors, this is the prime opportunity to purchase existing and future inventory in order to build an impressive portfolio, plan for retirement, or simply for vacation purposes.

For Mr. Rene M. Cinco, the real estate market in the Philippines is promising. With a professional career that has spanned over 3 decades in the United States, Mr. Cinco is the leading expert in mortgage banking, residential and commercial property development, property management, and commercial financing. Mr. Cinco was an active member of the National Association of Realtors in the USA and the Commercial Marketing Group in Las Vegas. His educational background consists of Master’s and Bachelor’s Degrees in Business Administration in addition to Property Management courses at the University of California—Los Angeles (UCLA) and the Master’s Program at the Commercial Real Estate Investment Institute in Los Angeles.

Currently, Mr. Cinco is the President of Premier Real Estate Investments and Development Corporation, a real estate investment company catering to the needs of both developers and buyers who are looking to expand their property portfolios.

He sharpened his mortgage banking skills at Great Western Bank in California. Thereafter, he organized Premier Mortgage Company, which provided financing for homebuyers and property developers. For almost 20 years, he was President of Cinmar Realty and Investment, Inc., a full service property firm serving Los Angeles County. He led several limited partnerships doing property development such as apartment buildings and custom-built homes. As the President of American Overseas Investment, he assisted several Filipino-Americans and Chinese investors to find excellent opportunities for investments in the US property market.

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In the late 1980s, he was a recipient of the “Outstanding Filipino Businessman award” from the Filipino community in Los Angeles. It was also during this time that he was asked by Cirio Santiago to appear in a television series in Manila entitled “Successful Pinoys.”

The major projects currently being handled by Premier Real Estate Investments and Development Corporation include the sales and marketing for Montemaria, a master planned community developement, in addition to all the real estate projects of Abacore Capital Holdings, Inc. Heralded as the next international and local tourist destination, Montemaria, is uniquely situated at the center of the world’s largest marine biodiversity. The 130-hectare property is located on the southeastern tip of Batangas Bay and surrounded by the Verde Island Passage, which is the home of the best diving location in the world due to its rich biodiversity and pristine clear blue waters.

THE SANCTUARY Similar to Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer or Venice, Italy’s St. Mark’s Square, the Philippines will soon have its own iconic world attraction. The Mother of All Asia, Montemaria, will have an 88-meter tall (288 feet) stainless steel monument nestled on top of a 25-meter tall podium. The statue, designed and executed by internationally renowned art sculptor Eduardo “Ed” Castrillo, is expected to attract millions of global tourists each year. The monument is set to be completed this December 2015.

The sanctuary at Montemaria will primarily be a pilgrimage center that will have a chapel, rosary and meditation gardens, Way of the Cross, and retreat facilities. On the second floor of the podium houses an exhibition hall or galleria of all images of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The eight-hectare development will also offer the following facilities: scala sancta, panoramic view decks, seminar and conference rooms, mini theaters, auditoriums, shops, restaurants, pools, spas, and condotels.

Montemaria Asia Pilgrims, Inc. (MAPI), a non-profit organization will be responsible for the regeneration of the social, spiritual and physical well-being of members, and as a tribute to unity and peace in the world, especially in Asia.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY The surrounding area of Montemaria will also include 2 residential subdivisions. La Vida Grande, a high-end residential subdivision, will be made available to the public on a membership basis or simply through outright sale of land. The other residential subdivision is Montemaria Heights, which offers affordable house and lot packages aimed at the middle to upper class.

Lot and unit owners will automatically become members of this non-profit organization and will have the exclusive privilege of using the facilities and amenities of the club, which include the marina, amphitheater, club house, sports and recreation facilities, health and wellness center.

There will also be a number of activities available like scuba diving and sailing. Many restaurants and hotels are planned to be built to service the millions of tourists anticipated to visit. Eventually, this area has the potential to become its own commercial business district with numerous restaurants and tourist attractions similar to San Francisco’s Ghiradelli Square and Sydney’s Circular Quay.

“SIMILAR TO RIO DE JANEIRO’S CHRIST THE REDEEMER OR VENICE, ITALY’S ST. MARK’S SQUARE, THE PHILIPPINES WILL SOON HAVE ITS OWN ICONIC WORLD ATTRACTION.”

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S P ECI A L A D V E RT I S ING F E AT U R E

HOTEL CÉLESTE THE NEW FACE OF LUXURY

E

ver fancied themed hotels in London, New York City, Miami, and Los Angeles? At the very intersection of business, pleasure and great lifestyles nestle a luxurious boutique hotel inspired from world-class hotels. HOTEL CÉLESTE, a ‘haute couture’ boutique hotel with 30 luxurious guestrooms and suites in Makati City, is the latest project from the business group of husband and wife team, Bert and Celi Sarabia. The hotel was named after ‘Celi’ who rebranded the concept of the hotels.

WARM AND HOMEY HOTEL While Celi was traveling in Europe, she experienced firsthand guests receiving personalized service at hotels that made them feel at home. The notion was to build resorts and hotels that would make guests feel as if they are staying in a big house rather than a hotel. Guests are treated not just as clients with room numbers but as family.

Hotel Céleste lives up to its mission of enchanting their guests through a unique experience of luxury and excellent service with each stay. “We specialize in creating a kind of luxury that is not cold and stiff but warm and [homey],” says Tricia Sarabia, Hotel Céleste’s General Manager.

DREAM AMENITIES Unlike major hotel chains that practice “tiered” services, Hotel Céleste’s finest amenities are customary. What may seem to be just dream amenities on one’s wish list are standard at Hotel Céleste.

Each room comes with a separate bedchamber complete with plush beddings, a living room area, 32” LCD HDTV w/ cable, iPod dock, in-room safe, a dining area, coffee and tea making facilities, a kitchen, a “not-so” minibar and a large marble tiled bathroom with freestanding bathtubs.

Each bathroom is stocked with L’Occitane toiletries.

MEETING ROOM The hotel has a flexible meeting room that can be used for business meetings and presentations, intimate parties or medium scale events, nestled in the breezy view deck and rooftop that offers a sweeping panorama of the Makati business and lifestyle district.

ECO FRIENDLY PRIME BOUTIQUE HOTEL Hotel Celéste 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 light-emitting diode (LED) lights to conserve electricity.

SOPHISTICATED INTERIORS The hotel is a work of art in itself with its art-deco architecture by Roland Polenday, oversized classic furnishings and contemporary decors by interior designer Andy Galutera, and lobby art pieces and hand-painted walls in guestrooms by artist Gina Bocar.

No two rooms are alike. Inspired by hotels around Asia and Europe, every room is a masterpiece on its own.

The owner herself handpicked every detail of the five (5) opulent suites and 25 deluxe rooms; each with their own unique furniture and mirrors.

Hotel Celeste is located at 2 San Lorenzo Drive, Corner A. Arnaiz Avenue, San Lorenzo Village, Makati City 1223 For and reservations, call +63 BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM April2/887-8080 May 2015 or email info@hotelceleste.ph.

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“The only thing I was able to say entering the Suite room was ‘Wow’– the room is excellently designed, brand new, with all imaginable amenities.”

–Vineta C., Latvia

“Unique room interior and excellent customer service.”

–April Ngern, Singapore

S P ECI A L A D V E RT I S ING F E AT U R E

“Boracay Tropics is also the only resort to maintain a homey ambiance. Guests feel secure inside and relaxed. Unlike [other] hotels, we take pride in giving a room that is comfortable and relaxing after a day at the beach. It’s not just a bed you go back to at the end of the day.”

–Tricia Sarabia, General Manager.

The woman behind the two up-and-coming hotels in the country

BEST WESTERN BORACAY TROPICS: A GETAWAY TO TROPICAL PARADISE

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he sister property of the country’s pioneer boutique hotel, Hotel Céleste, offers exciting possibilities in the world famous Boracay Island.

BEST WESTERN BORACAY TROPICS is a tropical oasis blending Mediterranean and Asian architecture and interiors on a sprawling estate with a verdant landscape. It is meticulously designed to provide privacy, a bounty of breathing space and peaceful refuge from the beachfront.

The two, three-story building properties enclose the exclusive and self-contained sanctuary.

ROOMS Wind down and relax in any of the 64 elegant-appointed rooms: Premiere Suites, Cabana, Superior Rooms, Family Room, Dorm Room and Deluxe Rooms. All rooms are Mediterranean and Asian inspired equipped with air-conditioning units, mini-bar, and private rain shower with hot and cold water, cable TV and an in-room safety deposit vault.

FACILITIES The AAA resort hotel located at Station 2 offers an array of facilities both for business and leisure. Guests can indulge in culinary delights at Tropicafe. Other facilities include the newly constructed air-conditioned function room, bean-shaped pool, oasis spa & nail salon for your pampering needs, Business Nook and Gift Shop.

ECO-FRIENDLY AMENITIES Boracay Tropics’ bean-shaped pool uses special stone tiles which absorb the heat during daytime.

Handpicked by the general manager herself, the pool tiles will keep the water warm throughout the day and even at night. Similar with its sister company, the resort uses Solahart, a solar power system-water heater to help conserve the environment. All rooms and facilities also use lightemitting diode (LED) lights to save on electricity. The resort contributes in preserving the beauty of the island by actively segregating and recycling waste.

TRICIA S. SARABIA is one of the country’s youngest general managers. For nearly five years, she has been running their two family-owned hotels – Hotel Céleste and Best Western Boracay.

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 twoyear 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 With her responsibilities, Tricia is continuing to learn more about the hospitality industry to ultimately achieve her goal: expand the Hotel Céleste brand and make it known as the pioneer boutique hotel brand in the Philippines.

Even with her success at a young age, Tricia remains humble. “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 other more experienced General Managers I meet in the industry.”

Best Western Boracay Tropics at Boat Station 2, Bo. Manggayad, Boracay Island, Malay Aklan, Philippines.

For inquiries or reservations, you may call the Manila Reservations Office at T: +63 2 887-4652, +63 2 887 0581 or email April / May 2015 info@boracaytropics.com.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

GLADC CONSTRUCTION WHAT CONSTRUCTION SHOULD BE

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ith real estate taking over the local market, ubiquitous developers and construction firms have mustered to dominate our fastmodernizing world. Rallying at the forefront of this upsurge is GLADC Construction with its humble goals to build and construct high-quality homes and provide solutions that offer unique lifestyle environments.

Most Innovative Construction Services Provider. In the same year, the National Customers Choice Annual Awards also hailed it as the Most Outstanding Trusted Quality Construction Services Provider. Now this coming March 28, 2015, GLADC Construction will be awarded as an Asia Pacific Excellence Awardee as Best Trusted & Quality Construction Firm Services.

Established in 2007, GLADC Construction applies the highest degree of craftsmanship, proper attention to details, hands-on project management and supervision.

The objective of the company serves as a reflection on what the business is all about. Focusing on complete construction services provided by a pool of esteemed Landscapers, Planners, Interior Designers, Designers, Contractors, Builders, and Architects, it adheres to the precept that teamwork is the most important factor in the pursuant of success; as seen through some its projects like the Suntrust Properties, Camella Homes, Crown Asia, Brittany, Vinelle Belvoir Corp., and other government and commercial projects.

Apart from being Vinnelle Belvoir Certified and DOLE Accredited, GLADC Construction was also a PHILGEPS Blue Membership and Platinum membership certified.

In 2014, it was awarded by the Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice Award as

This photo was taken during the construction of the house last 2010 in Portofino Alabang Hts., Muntinlupa City

GLADc is open to investment and franchising opportunities for the business firm.

Architect Glenn A. Dela Cruz CEO & President of GLADC Construction Architect Dela Cruz is an active member of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP), Cavite chapter. For the past 6 years, he has established himself in the construction business. From being a Draftsman to a Supervisor Architect, he has worked his way up through the tutelage of Engineer Ruben A. Tagala. He has worked on several housing projects for Camella, Crown Asia, and Portofino of Brittany Inc., all under Vistaland Group of Companies.

For more information on GLADC Construction and its projects, visit gladc-construction.wix.com/gladcsiteworks. For inquiries, call (046) 502-1884 +63 9183977373 | +63 9174767038 and look for Arch. Glenn A. dela Cruz, UAP or email glenn0515@yahoo.com.ph | ennaeirral@yahoo.com.ph.

April / May 2015 BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM GLADC Construction is located at Blk. 1 Lot 17 Ph5 Tierra Nevada Gen. Trias, Cavite.

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CEBU PARKLANE INTERNATIONAL HOTEL A HOTEL IN CEBU THAT STANDS FOR CEBU!

T Words: Maria Nimfa Nadtja H. Villaver | Photographs: Noel Ty

raveling to the Queen City of the South? Whether it’s for business or for leisure, Cebu Parklane International Hotel is perfect for you. Come and experience the authentic Cebuano hospitality right at the moment you step into the lobby’s modern and contemporary ambiance.

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Strategically located at the heart of Cebu City’s central commercial and business district at Archbishop Reyes Avenue and Escario Street, you’ll get to enjoy what Cebu has to offer.

Soak in the city’s vibrant and colorful rhythms amidst a bustling backdrop of businesses, shopping, dining, and entertainment.

UPSCALE ACCOMMODATIONS The hotel has 241 stylish and welldesigned guest rooms and suites equipped with facilities and amenities to complement the needs of every traveler which ensures a pleasurable, yet functional stay. All rooms come

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with free Wi-Fi, a mini bar, cable TV, air-conditioning, safety deposit box, and spacious bathrooms.

DELECTABLE CUISINE Cebu Parklane has a number of restaurants. The popular Manuel’s Restaurant serves international & Filipino cuisine to satisfy any special cravings. Located at the ground floor of the hotel, this Zen-inspired dining room provides a memorable gustatory experience with its food, quality service, and versatile ambience to suit any occasion.

Craving Cebuano dishes? Indulge your taste buds by experiencing Kananan! Kan-anan offers an array of Cebuano delicacies. Try the house specialties such as Lansyaw (stewed bull’s gonads), Ginabut (lightlybattered internal organs – pork intestine, liver and pork heart, deep-fried and served with native sauce), Sutukil (fresh seafood cooked 3-ways – sugba, tinola and kilaw).

Have a sweet tooth? Try Bean Date, a small café located at the ground floor lobby serving light snacks and coffee.

Bean date also offers an all-you-caneat snack buffet, Merienda Cena.

PREMIUM AMENITIES The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool adjacent to the Aquamarine Fitness and Wellness Gym. Too cozy to leave your room? Relax and enjoy a full body massage or any spa treatment.

For functions and events, the Grand Ballroom, Victoria Hall and seven other multi-function rooms provide the ideal venue for meetings, weddings, conferences, exhibitions and family gatherings.

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SCOPE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DESK

SOARING HIGH A Filipino-American owned company catering to private jets is taking the aviation industry to new heights WORDS: CHRISTINA M. ORIEL & AGNES CONSTANTE

There is a lot to know about private aviation. Every year, there are new technologies, upgrades, and routes opening. To say it’s a constantly innovating industry mixed with luxury is an understatement.

It’s a Monday morning at Van Nuys Airport (about 30 minutes north of Los Angeles), a public facility that sees no major, commercial airlines but is frequented by celebrities, business executives and politicians.

By one of the airport’s entrances, Dean Cambe is making the rounds of his 20,000 square-foot hangar, which is brimming with about 10 jets of varied sizes and models, including a Gulfstream from the early 1980s – a testament to the longevity of a private jet investment.

That morning, vintage World War II planes are arriving at the airport lot, much to Dean’s amusement, as he reflects on how aircrafts have evolved within the last

century. One in particular is his favorite WWII fighter jet, a P51D-25-NA Mustang aircraft, which he calls the “flying Ferrari of all sports planes.”

“To fly in it as a back seat driver, it will only cost you $2,000 [for] 15 to 30 minutes,” he notes, as he gushes about the features of the aircraft, including its top-speed Rolls Royce V12 Merlin engine.

Dean founded VIP Jet Services in 2002, a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) repair station, as a realization of his “dream of not only owning a business, but being the boss.”

But for an individual so acquainted and savvy in the intricacies of executive jets, particularly Challengers, Falcons, Hawkers and Gulfstreams – the most recognizable private jet manufacturers –it’s nearly impossible to guess that Dean fell into the industry by chance.

In 1973, at the age of 18, Dean enlisted in the Philippine Navy with the intent of setting foot in the United States. He held multiple jobs in the military, the first of which involved cleaning and painting ships.

“Cleaning and painting a ship – that is not what I came here to America for,” he recalls. “That wasn’t an easy job – I was so dirty every day, paint all over my face and clothes April / May 2015

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SCOPE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DESK

20,000-square foot hangar at Van Nuys Airport

and sweating…I looked at my fellow servicemen and noticed they were clean and not working as hard as I was.”

Though he aspired to be in the military when he was younger, he soon realized it was not for him. He put in a request and was transferred to an office position. About one year into his new position as a personnel man in the Navy, Dean met his cousin in San Francisco who worked for United Airlines. His cousin’s job piqued his interest and inspired yet another request for transfer into another naval department: aviation.

In one week, he found himself in a field without any knowledge about it. He even openly admits that when he made the switch, he did not have plans of pursuing it as a career.

Dean, Dean Jr. and Phillip Cambe

From his roots as a farmer in the Pangasinan province of the Philippines to a US military man in aviation, the change was a big step for Dean.

“When you’re starting as a mechanic, my god, it seems like you’re being watched by everybody,” he says. “You make one mistake, you have about 50 technicians out there running around and everybody would know that you screwed up. You can lose some sleep over that. There were times when I did something and I doubted what I did, and I would wake up in the middle of the night and look at it again. I would go back to work. That’s hard.”

In 1979, he was assigned to work at Point Mugu, a naval base in Ventura County, where he further honed his skills as an aircraft mechanic. Then about a year later, Dean left the Navy with both civilian and military job offers waiting for him. Eventually, he cut ties with the launching pad that enabled him to migrate to the United States, and began forging his own path to success.

With his background as a mechanic, Dean ultimately decided to venture into entrepreneurship instead of becoming a pilot. “I couldn’t see myself being a pilot, [because I would be] away from my family all the time,” he says.

Of course, he interacts with many of them on a daily basis and did so more frequently while he was a mechanic.

“The pilots are the ones that operate the airplane and they pick your brain, they know how things operate in the cockpit. They actually ask you technical questions. If April / May 2015

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Dean Cambe Jr.

you don’t know how things operate, they’ll figure that out and know you’re not the right person to fix the plane,” he shares. “You learn from them and they learn from you at the same time.”

Upon leaving the military, he spent several years working at various private companies before going on to establish his own business. In the beginning, he spent approximately seven years working as a mechanic at Hughes Aircraft Company in Southern California.

Dean landed his next stint at Roig West, a jet service company, where he gained exposure to corporate jets and worked his way up to become a manager. While he worked there, he was offered a managing position at Thomason Aircraft, and the opportunity to collaborate and start a business. Although he was employed at that time, he agreed because he was already planning on starting his own company. But there was one small problem attached to the offer: they needed a hangar.

He got on the phone and began calling up contacts in Van Nuys, and found a lone hangar available. A competitor was about to acquire that same facility, but Dean’s contact said the hangar could be his if he could make it Long Beach in less than two hours – before the other company representative was slated to come in – and write out checks for a down payment of $30,000, which would fund the first and last months of rent.

Although he didn’t have the funds in his account, he raced down south and issued two checks anyway, successfully securing the facility. And as he walked out of the building, he says he bumped into the competition walking in. “The timing in that instance counted for a lot,” he says.

In six months, Dean was promoted from vice president of operations to president of the company. His time at Thomason gave him all the tools he needed to run a business — knowledge in aircraft sales, turbine and piston maintenance, accounting and management, among other areas.

From his successful acquisition of the hangar, VIP Jet 38

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Services was born.

Today, the original company is under The Cambe Group, where Dean serves as the CEO, an entity that provides international aircraft consultation, aircraft sales, asset procurement business development and consulting.

Though there’s no typical day for Dean, he spends much time completing everyday office tasks, such as checking emails and meeting with staff. He also regularly wines and dines with prestigious clients, which, he states with confidence, is not as intimidating as it may seem. Most of the time, formal matters are hardly discussed. “They know your purpose for the meeting,” he says. “The reason you close the deal is because they’re comfortable with you – not because you talked business.”

Despite his wealthy clientele, gaining customers is easy for Cambe. “Retaining them is the hard part,” he says.

His two sons, Phillip, 37, and Dean Jr., 35, are his business partners who have been integral in boosting the company’s online presence, enabling it to reach wider audiences worldwide.

“These days, my two sons are the ones who are making the most decisions in the company,” Dean says.

Phillip, who studied business management and computer information, is head of Avilist, which he founded in 2008 as a company that sells parts for commercial, regional and corporate aircrafts domestically and internationally. Dean Jr., whose background is in computer networking, oversees VIP Jet Services. Together, they manage the family company’s back-end operations, particularly in running the websites, accounting and marketing. Phillip also serves as chairman of the board of the Cambe Group, while Dean Jr. is its president.

“My dad taught us everything,” Phillip says. “He knew all the secrets, the little ins and outs that he learned through the years from the other companies he worked for.”

The Cambe Group is in the process of expanding internationally. Dean has embarked on countless business trips to meet with clients, to fix jets on some occasions, for aircraft consultation, and to deliver airplanes to foreign countries and to the United States and vice versa.

Phillip Cambe

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L-R: Dean, Phillip and Dean Jr. BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

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Despite the ongoing recovery of the United States economy, Dean is increasingly optimistic about business opportunities and the demand for private jets in Asia and the Middle East.

“In this industry, you cannot just stop here in the United States,” he says. “The business is around the world.” Though, the US will always remain the hub of his company.

Pointing to a photo of the Gulfstream G650 – the most expensive private jet on the market with a price tag of $65 million – Dean notes that 30 percent of the inventory is already reserved for customers in Asia, especially China, before they are shipped out. “People in Asia are expanding [their businesses and assets] exponentially,” he says.

His company already services jets that come from far corners of the globe, including Dubai, Hong Kong, France, Malaysia and Singapore.

“If I go to Asia and start a company, hopefully people will recognize what I can share to them there, and see what I’ve learned after so many years of being in the industry. It’s a matter of people recognizing that, and the potential of what I can offer,” he says.

Though Dean is one of the few Filipino Americans in the industry, his previous experiences working in a hotel and in the United States Navy – where he interacted with

individuals similar to his current clientele – have allowed him to feel like he fits right in. Dealing with mechanics and employees in aviation was much harder, he shares, but he has never felt out of place while interacting with private jet owners.

“As long as you’re confident, and you’re honest, and you know what you’re talking about without circling around, you’ll gain respect,” he says.

His job keeps him on his toes 24 hours a day, given that the business is strictly regulated by the Federal Aviation

April / May 2015

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Dean with a P51D-25-NA Mustang, an aircraft used during World War II

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Administration, Environmental Protection Agency and World Airports, among other agencies.

He is periodically subject to arbitrary, unannounced audits and drug tests.

But for him, his current career outweighs working at a job where paychecks are dependent on superiors and where employment is not always certain.

The culmination of events leading up to where he is today, he says, is the best thing that has ever happened. With his own company, he either makes it or he does not. “Giving yourself no option is the key of success,” he explains.

In addition to expansion plans, Dean wants to give back to the country that inspired him to possess grand aspirations, strive for a better life and rooted him with grit that led to all his achievements. One day, he envisions opening up a technical school in the Philippines that will allow Filipinos to learn the craft of aviation.

“It’s the greatest legacy I’ll ever have,” he says.

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TRAVEL | BALESIN

BALESIN ISLAND CLUB An inside look into the exclusive, members-only luxury island resort

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tour of seven of the world’s most alluring destinations without leaving the Philippines? It’s possible with just a 20-minute plane ride from Manila.

Enter Balesin Island Club, a 500-hectare paradise with 7.3 kilometers of pristine white sand beaches, located 21 kilometers southwest of Polillo, Quezon Province.

Balesin provides a constantly evolving experience, so members and guests will never tire of visiting the island.

The club features 300 villas and suites distributed across seven authentically designed villages patterned after stunning getaways around the world. Each of these is a resort in itself, with the cuisine and culture of the original destination. There are an additional 14 suites at The Balesin Royal Villa, your venue of choice for larger groups.

PHILIPPINES

Balesin village touts original Filipino architecture that features the best the country has to offer. Situated in front of the immaculate beach and soft white sand, the village is near the main clubhouse, Balesin Spa, Aquatic Sports Center and Sala, a restaurant that offers the famous Balesin binakol, fish fillet in coconut juice, and more Filipino dishes. Relic Bar, the oldest existing structure on the island, serves as the perfect place to unwind by the beach while sipping cocktails and watching the sunset.

INDONESIA

Transport yourself to Indonesia, where Bali Village’s unique villas draw their inspiration from the “Salakot,” the traditional Asian farmer’s hat. Each Bali villa has a wraparound porch that provides a relaxing ambiance.

For a more romantic and secluded experience, members and guests can stay in one of the water villas that provide the most captivating panoramic views on the island. The Warung, the village’s signature restaurant, provides an authentic Indonesian ambiance with must-try dishes from the Asian country, while the Nusa Dua Bar is where members and guests can enjoy signature Balinese cocktails and appetizers in the open air as the sun goes down.

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TRAVEL | BALESIN THAILAND

Visit Thailand by way of Phuket Village tucked away in the southern part of the island, surrounded by a lush green forest and unforgettable views of Lamon Bay for the sunrise and the Pacific Ocean for the sunset. Each villa is characterized by multiple roof tiers, undulating serpentine shapes and blade-like roof projections which are hallmarks of the rich Thai heritage.

Each has an outdoor deck, daybed and lounge chairs and tables for relaxing.

A visit to the resort isn’t complete without getting a fix of a traditional Thai fare of pad Thai, tom yum goong, and more.

GREECE

Head to Mykonos Village, an authentic recreation of the worldfamous Greek isle characterized by whitewashed walls, blue windows and doors, and winding cobblestone roads. With 32 spacious units spread over six different buildings named after the gods and goddesses of Greek mythology, this village is ideal for families and large groups who want to stay together. Each villa has a rooftop deck that comes with a large lounge area and whirlpool tub, a perfect size for entertaining. The main clubhouse area of the Beach Villas is located in Poseidon, where a pool with a unique indoor/outdoor configuration serves as a centerpiece. The second floor of Poseidon offers an impressive wraparound veranda offering views of the majestic Pacific ocean.

As for dining Mykonos Village offers Thanassis Taverna (named after Chef Thanassis Koumpiadis), with a menu that includes gyros, moussaka, grilled lamb ribs, and souvlaki. The Cove Deck at Mykonos is a great place to enjoy the cool sea breeze with a drink in hand. Built within a private cove and adjacent to the Thanassis Taverna, it sees regular use as a party spot or venue for large gatherings. Mykonos Cove Deck also has four outdoor Jacuzzis that face the Pacific Ocean and are popular both day and night.

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FRANCE

For those wanting to visit the South of France, St. Tropez offers members and guests an experience patterned after the legendary Hotel Byblos. A long, date palm-lined driveway leads up to the village, which has rooms characterized by their high ceilings and their own balcony looking out at the Pacific Ocean.

‘Les Restaurants de St. Tropez’ are several small dining areas: Le Girelier, La Voile Rouge, L’Escale, and Place des Lices.

For added privacy, there is Le Neptune, a secluded dining room that can seat 12. Specialties of the house include pissaladière, escargots de Bourgogne and entrecôte au poivre. The upstairs Crêperie offers sweet and savory crêpes with café.

With its hexagonal ceiling mirrors and exotic yet cozy furnishings, the Nirvana Lounge draws inspiration from the sophisticated French bar scene. This little hideaway on the main floor of St. Tropez provides an intimate backdrop for cocktails or a post-dinner rendezvous.

SPAIN

Travel to southern Spain at Costa del Sol, which boasts ‘casas’ with Spanish colonial architecture, arched thresholds, stucco walls and manicured courtyards — resembling the quaint, coastal towns of the country. Casa Grande, the signature dining facility, offers a selection of tapas and a variety of wines. The place to be for after-dinner drinks is the Alhambra Lounge, a Moroccan-inspired sanctum infused with a warm mystique that will allow your mind to drift away while you relax with a glass of fine Spanish brandy.

ITALY

Toscana Village draws its inspiration from Tuscany, the Italian region renowned for its lush vineyards, olive groves, rolling hills, old-world traditions, and art masterpieces. Toscana Village features many hallmarks of Tuscan architecture and design—arched doorways, terracotta accents, textured stone walls, tiled finishes, and the generous use of natural wood. The suites and common areas in Toscana Village are decorated with rich yet simple furnishings in soft, opulent fabrics. The village is home to several dining areas that serve typical Tuscan fare.

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TRAVEL | BALESIN

AT A GLANCE Balesin Island Club is located off the eastern coast of Luzon, 21 kilometers southeast of Polillo, Quezon province Travel time is 20 minutes from Alphaland’s private hangar (located at Airport Road, Pasay City) via the developer’s own fleet of aircraft The island’s 1.5km concrete runway also accommodates international flights and private jets MEMBER PRIVILEGES Enjoyment value of 7 or 14 free villa nights per year in perpetuity Appreciating investment value (equity instrument) 24-hour golf buggy service Cafés and specialty restaurants in each of the seven villages Access to all the facilities FACILITIES Seven themed destinations on one island Clubhouses, dining and function rooms Biking, forest hiking and segway trails

THE BALESIN ROYAL VILLA

The resort features The Balesin Royal Villa for larger groups, a perfect venue for family gatherings, wedding receptions, and corporate retreats.

Meticulously designed, The Balesin Royal Villa takes the best of Asian royal heritage and blends it into something wholly original. With its intricate filigree finishes, rich fabrics, and luxurious yet airy ambiance, the end result is an opulent setting fit for a king.

Sports center (basketball, tennis, badminton, archery, golf driving range, & more) Aquatic sports center (waterskiing, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking & more)

Members can stay in a different village every trip, or even different villages on the same trip, and the Main Clubhouse, Sports Center, Spa and other facilities are constantly adding new activities and experiences.

Horse stables

The natural beauty of Balesin has also been carefully preserved. Master-planned

by EcoPlan of Florida in the United States, the island club was designed to ensure sustainability, and so that no structure would overwhelm its environment.

Today, less than 10 percent of the island (or about 45 hectares) is developed, while the majority of the island remains untouched, except for the addition of thousands of trees that have been planted.

Balesin members and guests experience the island in its authentic natural state, but with luxuries and amenities that make their stay even more unforgettable.

Interdenominational chapel

Sustainable growth centers (organic and herb/medicinal gardens, vermiculture, aquaculture) 10 spa treatment villas

For more information, please contact: T: +632.846.6205 M: +63999.886.4420 E: sales@alphaland.com.ph W: http://www.balesin.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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ubbed as the tallest building in the city, Marco Polo Davao offers the best views of the spectacular landscape distinct to the region. Conveniently situated, the hotel is a mere 20-minute drive from the airport and is amidst several establishments in the city. You can choose from their 245 elegant guest rooms and suites all equipped with modern conveniences: from complimentary Wi-Fi Internet service, dual line IDD/ DDD telephone with voicemail, LCD color TV with cable channels, iPod dock, to coffee machine and pods. *Superior *Deluxe *Premier *Cabana

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Enjoy the exclusive amenities unique to the Cabana rooms like complimentary pressing of one set of suit/dress per stay, complimentary cocktails, butler service, private reception area, etc..

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ROYAL COMFORTS AT THE LAZULI SPA Indulge in a glorious plethora of sensual repose. This two-story structure is among the many prides of Marco Polo Davao boasting four (4) exclusive treatment rooms and one (1) couple’s room for a complete, relaxing escape. Delight in a harmony of scents and ambient lights complementing the calming interiors, or the breathtaking sight of the pool as you yield to the pampering services.

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SCOPE skin care

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SUMMER ESSENTIALS 1. Tanning Spray Bain de Soleil’s (not available in the Philippines) Spray Transpare with SPF10 for that perfect sun-kissed skin. 2. All Around Ointment Lucas’ Pawpaw Ointment (not available in the Philippines) to treat chapped lips. This miracle balm doubles as an all-around aid for skin rash, insect bite, burn, and other minor skin irritation. 3. Sunblock The minimum amount of SPF is at least 30. If you’re going to spend hours basking under the sun, Laneige Sunblock Supreme with SPF 50 can protect your skin from sun damage.This product is ideal for sensitive skin and leaves a dewy-looking finish. 4. Sunglasses Choose a pair with the right amount of glare and coverage. Too much sun exposure can cause wrinkles around your eyes.

5. Facial Sunscreen TIZO3 Facial Mineral Sunscreen SPF40 is a tinted mineral sunscreen with a non-greasy matte finish. It contains sunscreen filters that help prevent pre-mature skin aging and sun-induced wrinkles. [Available at Luminisce] 6. Hair Serum Two words: Argan Oil. Moroccanoil® Treatment Light is the luxurious answer to damaged hair. Infused with antioxidant-rich argan oil, this oil wonder is the only thing you need to get a healthy, smooth and damaged-free mane this summer. [Available at Emphasis Salon]

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COVER STORY

Huma Island Resort & Spa AN ISLAND HIDEAWAY IN THE TROPICAL PARADISE OF BUSUANGA, PALAWAN WORDS: CHRISTINA M. ORIEL PHOTOGRAPHS: NOEL TY

It was early morning in Manila, barely at the cusp of summer, yet the sun’s wrath was already palpable. That, combined with other commonly griped about metropolitan characteristics, reinforced the enthusiasm of whisking away to a place that appeared scenically distant.

This would be my first trip outside of the capital city that wasn’t motivated by a cultural festival, tourist attraction, or thrill-seeking adventure. Rather, my intention was simple: to leisurely experience an up-and-coming island hideaway that not too many have had the privilege to visit.

Upon touching down in Busuanga (an island in the northern tip of Palawan) an hour later, an employee from Huma Island Resort & Spa fetched us, armed with cold towels and a smile that hinted at the genial service to be experienced. After maneuvering through mountain roads during the 90-minute van ride, we got off at Sagrada port and boarded an outrigger boat headed toward Dicilingan Island.

With anticipation mounting, the island neared.

Close your eyes and imagine this: thick rainforest-covered mountains surrounded by a white sand beach and villas on stilts over the turquoise-tinted waters.

It’s a picture enough to render one speechless.

First impressions are vital, as they establish the tone for one’s stay, and Huma’s staff is fully aware of that so no detail goes overlooked: One step onto the long stone jetty leading to the resort’s reception area and the welcome mat was rolled out. Staff members handed over more cold towels, opened umbrellas overhead as shade, and sang an upbeat welcome song in unison.

Just minutes on the island, the allure, serenity and warmth cascaded all at once to beg the question: “How long can I stay?”

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Uncovering Huma Island Referred to as the country’s “last frontier,” Palawan is composed of a group of 1,768 islands and has, in recent years, been lauded for its pristine white beaches, rock formations, biodiversity and underwater mysteries.

Dicilingan Island — located westward off Busuanga — was purchased and developed by International Trade Holding Company (ITHC), a Kuwait-based firm that has businesses in aviation, construction, retail and hospitality. At the helm of ITHC is Dr. Hamad Al-Tuwaijri, who recognized the potential of tourism in the Philippines and envisioned Huma Island as his pet project. Under his hospitality arm, the United International Hotel Group, Dr. Al-Tuwaijri is eyeing an eventual city hotel in Manila and resort in Boracay.

With Palawan considered as one of the top island destinations in the world, hundreds

of resorts have sprung up, promoting themselves as luxurious retreats surrounded by stunning natural wonders and adventures.

Some have garnered international attention and have been branded as ultra-exclusive and secretive, almost mythical, by the guests who have stayed there.

But amidst the saturation, what makes Huma Island stand out?

Playing on the legend of Captain Ibrahim and his mighty galleon named Huma that vanished, the island resort itself is an enchanting expanse that transports one to an unparalleled state of mental repose and aesthetic satisfaction.

Patterned after a world-renowned resort, the 14-hectare resort opened in late 2013, boasting 81 luxury guest villas, eight gourmet dining outlets (two of which are wine cellars) and a glass-floored spa complex. Though

it is a contained site for pure indulgence, the Huma team also touts it as a hub of adventure, where marine life, coral gardens and mysterious sunken wrecks of Japanese warships and planes are a boat ride away for skilled divers.

Inside the reception, Wilhelm Bolton, the general manager; Noela Fernandes, the front office manager; and Roxane Nicholls, the recreations manager, met and briefed us about the resort grounds and our trip. Though our schedule would be compact to fit in as many activities as possible in a short amount of time, they assured us that we would not leave without feeling a sense of renewal.

For our first lunch, we went to On the Harbour, which has fresh surf and turf options daily. Walking into the restaurant, waitresses each greeted us on a first-name basis. Admittedly, it was a bit startling, but it was another display of the personalized service and a touching note of how connected you suddenly feel to the resort and its staff.

Diners can choose to sit inside or on one of three balconies. The restaurantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exterior matches every other villa and center on the resort with thatched roofs and a mixture of Mediterranean and Filipino architecture.

Inside, white wicker tables and chairs are lined with blue cloth, and shells are used as decor to adhere to the tropical theme.

On that particular day, the freshest salmon and tuna maki were brought out as appetizers, followed by a delectable red snapper on a bed of grilled vegetables for the entrĂŠe, and the famed Philippine mango for a light dessert and palate cleanser that naturally packed in

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an appropriate amount of sweetness more than any confection ever can.

Circling back to initial impressions, this introduction to the culinary helpings of the island left one’s stomach satisfied, yet curious as to what the next meal would be.

After our meal, we rode a “buggy” (their moniker for golf cart) on a maze-like path across the resort’s main thoroughfare to our villas. From On the Harbour you pass the dive and recreation center, kids’ club, fitness center, Al Fairuz (Lebanese restaurant), Waves (all-day dining), Blu Bar (24-hour drinks and snacks), the infinity pool, archery targets and a gift boutique.

We also saw the three Family Villas: A Family Suite that houses two bedrooms and a private mini pool facing the beach; and two Regular Beach Villas with one sporting a private Jacuzzi and the other, on the right-most part facing the sea, specifically for handicapped and elderly guests. These types of accommodations are geared toward families vacationing with small children, as they’re near the recreational activities and restaurants.

Heading into the southern strip of the resort, we drove by a guard house with 24-hour security, though the resort is very secluded that any incident would be rare.

Among the 64 water villas, 24 are housed on this side of the resort, including the Presidential Suite. They are risen on stilts above coral banks and offer a view of the wide ocean and other small islands in the distance.

Each water villa is 102 square meters and comes with a queen-sized bed and a chaise lounge that has brightly-colored, islandthemed fabrics; a flat screen TV, cable and Wi-Fi, so you’re not too disconnected from

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the outside world as much as you attempt to do so; a sizable bathroom with double sinks, a stand-alone marble tub, a toilet room and a rain shower. Outside the villa’s back sliding door is a private wooden sun deck with two lounge chairs, an umbrella, Jacuzzi and outdoor shower.

The rooms come with 24-hour service with an attentive “villa host” at your beck and call. No task is too small, and almost any desire can be fulfilled. Staff are a phone call away with the buggy to transport you to any part of the resort, if you care not to walk.

As I entered my villa, a fruit basket, bottle of Rosé, and greeting letter called my name.

About an hour had proceeded since my arrival and there seemed to be something new every minute that impressed and left me in awe.

The villa was my own cozy sanctuary

GETTING THERE Private sea plane Huma Island’s guests can now avail of direct exclusive transfer from the Philippine capital straight to the island.

Three private seaplanes are available to shuttle guests in utmost comfort, taking off from historic Manila Bay and landing directly in front of the resort. Flight time is approximately 90 minutes.

Commercial flight Just an hour away from Manila by air, Busuanga, Palawan is accessible daily through Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific. From Busuanga Airport, the resort has a van that takes guests to Sagrada port (approx. 90 minutes), followed by a 30-minute boat ride to the island.

ACCOMMODATIONS The resort offers four types of guesthouses: Water Villas, Beach Villas, Family Suites and Presidential Suites. Each type comes with a sun deck in addition to the living area, and is equipped with air conditioning, a flat screen HDTV, a DVD player, an iPod Dock, electronic safe, a mini bar, coffee and tea amenity, spacious bathroom with double sinks, bathtub, rain shower, 24-hour room service and complimentary Wi-Fi. Water Villas - 64 villas on the resort offer a sweeping view of the open ocean. With 102 square meters of floor space, the simple thatched roof hut comes with the modern amenities and a private wooden sun deck with an open air Jacuzzi and outdoor shower.

during the short visit. In the early afternoons, the deck was a relaxing spot to jot down some thoughts and notes, and to sprawl out on a lounge chair as the lazy breeze blew over and the sun spared me from its rays.

Hubert, the host assigned to my villa, took me on a buggy tour of the rest of the resort. Heading north, we went to the other side of the aforementioned attractions and saw the white sand beach dotted with palm trees and beach villas. We chatted about his experience working at Huma. He spoke with appreciation of waking up every morning and getting to work there, and told me that the resort mostly employs locals from Busuanga and surrounding islands. Employees walked by and each smiled and placed their hand on their chest to bow and say “good afternoon.”

We headed toward the Kapuruan spa.

(Kapuruan, is a group of islands or secluded place in Cuyonin, Busuanga’s local dialect).

Opened daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., the spa offers holistic treatments from the

Beach Villas - Along the island’s shoreline are 14 larger huts with front doors that open directly onto the pristine sand and the crystal clear waters. The villas are 126 sqm and come with wooden sea-facing sun decks, lounge seats with parasols, private courtyards, Jacuzzis and an outdoor shower.

Family Suites - Ideal for families traveling with children, this is a 141sqm suite that features 2 bedrooms and a private mini-pool. It is accessible to the resort’s Kid’s Club and main dining spots.

Presidential Suites - The largest guesthouse on the resort with 294 square meters of floorspace has a spacious living room, two bedrooms and bathrooms, and a deck with a 13-square meter Jacuzzi and lounge chairs.

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Philippines and around the world that embrace the restorative powers of indigenous ingredients.

The reception was dimly lit and had an aroma of essential oils to stimulate the process of unwinding. At the beginning of each session, the receptionist conducts a brief consultation and rundown of what to expect during the treatment.

After exiting the reception area, I saw a seven-villa complex connected by wooden docks.

First I passed the salon, where services like manicure and pedicure, waxing and foot scrub are available. Next, the Hammam villa, where the traditional Moroccan bath ritual takes place. I booked an appointment for my last day because I couldn’t leave without experiencing the treatment that can only be found in the Philippines at Huma.

Each spa villa is designed distinctly to denote specific treatments offered inside and comes with a Jacuzzi, changing and shower rooms. Except for the Hammam villa, each one has a fiber glass floor with a view of the bottom of the ocean. It was low-tide this time of year so while lying down, sea urchin and small fish were visibly seen swimming in the clear waters. It was odd to feel like you’re floating plopped down in the water, yet it was soothing and amusing.

The third villa is Ayurveda, where the traditional Indian healing system is done in the form of oil massages. The other four villas are for massages and body treatments. Some standout services include: the Kapuruan Spa Massage (a massage that lulls you to sleep as the therapist relieves muscle tension and stimulates blood circulation); Traditional Hilot Massage (renowned Filipino massage that uses virgin coconut oil with essential oils to improve respiration and soothe general aches and pains); Kapeng Barako Body

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than a dozen other guests were on the resort, it felt as if we all had our own spaces and tailored itineraries so we wouldn’t get in each other’s ways.

Around 7 p.m., the sun began to descend.

The perfect spot to watch the sunset is at Al Dente, the Italian restaurant located at the end of the pathway. I lingered on the trail for a while, until I was motioned in by Frazer Fernandes, the food and beverage manager, to move to the patio deck. The resort’s resident musical duo, Arcy and Dennis, performed acoustic renditions of classic songs in the backdrop. Appetizers and wine flowed, as I patiently gazed at the sky’s cerulean, tangerine and buff hues fade to darkness.

Once night fell, I went inside, where the chef was behind the open kitchen preparing pasta dishes and putting pizzas in the brick oven. Noel (Balikbayan Magazine’s chief photographer) and I sat at one of the alcoved booths and started our meal off with homemade focaccia bread and the restaurant’s signature Minestrone soup.

Scanning the menu several times with indecision, I debated whether to get a pizza or seafood pasta or chicken parmigiana.

I settled on the Osso Buco, following the recommendation of Arce, the resort’s Filipino restaurant manager. While waiting for it to arrive, I walked back to the deck and noticed how large and glimmering the moon appeared as it reflected on the water. And the abundance of stars—when was the last time I stopped to look up and saw a visible sky?

I asked to take my dinner al fresco. The veal shank was tender atop a serving of buttery risotto. For someone particular with meat dishes, I finished every bite, as it was just the appropriate portion. The meal ended with the creamiest vanilla panna cotta I’ve ever tried. Though incredibly delicious, I paced myself as I topped off the dessert because I had nowhere else to be but right there taking a moment to pause and reflect on the striking Polish (coffee scrub to exfoliate and soften the skin and regulate blood flow); Lovers in Paradise (coco milk bath with buko juice and traditional hilot massage); Dreamtime journey (cucumber aloe body wrap, bubble bath soak and massage).

After getting a rundown and tour of the spa services, I headed down to the sandy shore.

Some 14 beach villas are situated along the shoreline, each with a similar layout as the water rooms, except the doors open onto a private courtyard and sun deck on the beach.

I generally like to partake in water sports, but I opted out because I wanted to amble along the sand while the beach was uncrowded. Hammocks are dispersed on the shore for those idle moments. Though more

natural beauty often taken for granted.

What you won’t find at Huma are monotonous and unmemorable menus.

Without having to go far, flavors from around the globe could come directly to you.

At Al Dente, you can request to dine in the wine cellar, featuring racks of vintage bottles.

The chef prepares a special menu paired with vino to complement each dish. Rudi’s Wine and Cheese Bar, another location to imbibe at the end of the day, carries wines and cheeses from Switzerland, France, Germany, Spain and more.

Before heading back to my villa, I toured the unoccupied Presidential Suite, the largest guesthouse on the resort with 294 square meters of floor space. The villa has a spacious living room, two bedrooms and bathrooms, and a deck with a 13-square meter Jacuzzi and lounge chairs.

As I retired for the night, I noticed that housekeeping had come while I was gone to untuck the bed comforter and leave water bottles and small pieces of chocolate.

I started the next morning with an omelette and fruit platter at Waves, which serves breakfast from 7 to 11 a.m. I arrived at the Dive Center ahead of our 8:45 a.m. call time and Roxane briefed me on the itinerary of our short excursion and shared the story of how she came to Huma.

We headed to the main jetty to board an outrigger boat that would take us to Pass Island, a short 30-minute ride. It is a small, well-maintained island that resembles a typical postcard, with cool waters for snorkeling, fine white sand, a volleyball net,

FACILITIES & FEATURES Dining Hungry and craving something in particular? Looking for a vintage bottle of wine? Fret not, Huma is not your average resort. With 6 dining outlets and 2 wine cellars, Huma Island Resort brings culinary offerings from around the world directly to you— travel to Lebanon via Al Fairuz (ordering the shawarma is a must!); dine with rustic Italian charm at Al Dente as the sun sets and order from its wine collection; enjoy Pan-Asian cuisine at Tagahuma; consume the freshest catch of the day at On the Harbour; quell cravings at any time of the day at Waves; pair wine and the finest cheeses at Rudi’s Wine and Cheese Bar; end the night poolside with a drink in hand at Blu Bar. Fitness center Get a workout on equipment, such as treadmills, stationary bikes and weights, while staring into the serene ocean.

Kid’s club An indoor play area for the younger guests Boutique The island beach resort has its own shop offering local and native products of Palawan, souvenirs, along with international designer clothes and other items.

DO RECREATION Take a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the ocean. For those who want to venture into the water, kayaking, jet skiing, snorkeling, Hobie cat sailing are among the activities to be enjoyed. For aspiring divers to the more seasoned, the Dive Center offers learning courses, diving escapades and island experience programs under the guidance of Harry, the resident dive master, and other expert instructors.

YOGA / MEDITATION Every afternoon, Roxane, the resort’s Recreations Manager hosts a free hourlong yoga & meditation session either on the beach or at the Yoga Pavilion, a roofed deck with a view of the ocean. All levels of experience are welcome.

LOUNGE Whether on your private sun deck, poolside, or on the beach, there are plenty of places to laze around. Come with a captivating book or take a nap as the light breeze blows.

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tables for picnicking and hammocks to relax on. I dipped in the shallow part of the water, where even small fish, starfish, clams and corals can be seen without snorkeling. As the climate got hotter, I retreated to a hammock under two palm trees for some shade and a short meditation.

Before returning to Huma, I hiked up the hill as Roxane recommended, to catch the view of the other side of the ocean with an abundance of pearl farms. Though we only spent about two hours on the island, it was a nice to take a break from the resort to see its surroundings.

It was noon when we disembarked the boat. We proceeded to On the Harbour for lunch: grilled squid with quinoa salad for appetizer, large scallops in cream sauce for the main entrée and churros con chocolate for dessert. Again, another mouthwatering meal. I don’t think I’ve been to a resort where every dish has been spot on.

I went to the spa for the hour-long Abhyanga treatment, an ancient Indian Ayurvedic oil massage intended to heal and detoxify the body, mind and spirit by cleansing of any harmful substances and re-establishing harmony and balance. After lying face up on the massage bed, two therapists began a synchronized full-body massage applying warm, herbal-infused oil onto my skin with mild pressure based on dosha, fundamental elements that encompass

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the human physiology. They repeated this on my back (to strengthen the body and promote longevity), scalp and head (to improve memory and concentration) until I was lulled to sleep.

The effects of the treatment were immediate by the end of the day: my skin was smoother and had more luster and I felt lighter with relaxed muscles as toxins seemed to escape. That night, I fell asleep immediately as my head touched the pillow and went 8 hours straight for the first time in a long time.

At dinner, Noel and I went to Al Fairuz, a Lebanese restaurant at the highest point of the island. Along the steps up, a garden of herbs and vegetables, which are used at the various dining outlets. For starters, Frazer brought out the Mezza platter consisting of hommous (chickpea dip), baba ghanouj (roasted eggplants with garlic and tahini), mutabel (eggplant yogurt dip) and loubie bzeit (green beans) served with pita bread.

Next for my main dish, I had beef shawarma with roasted peppers and cucumber yogurt sauce — a signature item of the restaurant.

GET PAMPERED Kick back and allow yourself to be spoiled at Kapuruan Spa. Choose from any of the massages, facials or body treatments, but if you’re looking for an only-at-Huma treatment, choose one of the Ayurveda therapies or the Hammam (Moroccan bath ritual). You’ll come back detoxed, glowing & refreshed to the envy of your friends. (Moroccan bath ritual). You’ll come back detoxed, glowing & refreshed to the envy of your friends.

BE IN AWE Catch the sunrise from Al Fairuz, the highest point of the resort. End the day by watching the sunset from Al Dente, the Italian restaurant at the end of the pathway.

EXCURSIONS IF YOU HAVE…

Wilhelm came over to our table to check in how our stay has been fairing along.

Where do I begin? I mustered something along the lines of absolutely impeccable.

Putting on my interrogator hat, I asked him a host of questions.

“How long have you been in the country?”

I asked.

“Twenty-seven years,” he said. Originally from South Africa, Wilhelm studied hotel management and has experience in the hospitality industries — from hotel management, food & beverage service, business development and operations and planning — in Switzerland, Italy, England and the Philippines. His most recent gig before Huma was setting up another luxury island resort in the country.

“With your experience, how has that influenced the training of the staff ?”

“We bring in international training,” he said, adding that resort staff receive a combination of French and Swiss training.

That, combined with their inherent Filipino kindness, makes them an embodiment of the three cultures that exhibit the best hospitality.

I then asked him what guests should leave the resort remembering. He took a momentary pause. “The warmness of the staff. They are trained to deliver personalized service and learn every guest’s name,” he succinctly said. He recounted how some previous guests have left in tears because of their positive experiences, especially with the staff.

“I love what I do and do what I love,” he shared, about his mantra that keeps him going each day. With that affirmative outlook on life relayed to the staff, it’s not difficult to discern why there is such a charm to the island.

“My vision is to make Huma the No. 1 destination in Palawan,” he boldly declared.

The next morning, the spa accommodated me for the Hammam treatment. In Moroccan

At least two hours Take a 30-minute boat ride to Pass Island for snorkeling and a lunch picnic. If your knees are able, don’t miss a five-minute trek to the top of the hill for an extensive view of the water and pearl farms.

Calambuyan Island is known as one of the Philippines’ best coral gardens and is just 20 minutes away from the resort.

Near Huma Island are dive sites, including a WWII plane that is about 10 meters long and soft corals that look like flower garden underneath, near the Al Dente Italian Restaurant.

Half/whole day Black Island, a mysterious hunk of dark limestone that rises about 150 feet from the water surface, is located approximately 45 minutes from Huma. It has three small caves, each containing natural mini-pools.

Perfect spot for picnic lunch, cave exploring and snorkeling. It is also the home of Nanshin Maru ship wreck.

For the diving enthusiasts, the historical WWII wrecks in Coron are major attractions.

Some sites include Okikawa Maru, a Japanese tanker that is the largest of the wrecks in the area; Irako, a Japanese refrigeration ship located at the mouth of Coron Bay, and is still intact; Kogyu Maru, a freighter with runway construction materials still intact.

Soft and hard corals, sponges, pufferfish and barracuda are abundant in the area.

Maquinit Hot Springs, the only saltwater hot spring in the country (this adventure tour is available for guests staying for a minimum of 2 nights.) The venue is 4 hours away by boat from Huma Island and is 2 hours from Coron town proper via boat ride.

Experience the safari at Calauit Island Game Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary, home to African wildlife including giraffes, zebras, and gazelles.

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culture, the Hammam is an integral part of life and most people do the cleansing ritual at least once a week, while socializing and catching up with friends. Unlike the ritual in its traditional communal form, Huma’s room is private for the guest scheduled at the given time slot.

I went into the procedure thinking it would be similar to doing a body scrub and sitting in the sauna. However, what transpired superseded my Western conceptions of bathing and detoxing.

In the humid steam chamber — the heat opens up your pores to extract any dirt — the therapist helped me up a marble table.

When I laid down, she doused me with warm water (first asking me if the temperature was acceptable), then lathered soap on my skin to add moisture. Every so often, she would make sure I drank water to replenish any fluids lost while sweating.

She then coated my skin with mineral clay and took a Keesa glove to slough off any dead skin cells. Before getting drenched with water again, she massaged and shampooed my hair.

At the end, I took a quick shower to spot clean any remnants. I emerged blissfully lightheaded, paler (so much for tanning at the beach) and with a softer complexion.

Having done this, bathing in a tub will never be the same. If only I could have the comfort of doing this once a week like they do in Morocco…

As I was driven back to my villa to do any last minute packing, I wished the time to leave hadn’t come so soon. Three days and two nights seemed like the bare minimum, enough to lounge in the rooms and around

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the resort, sample some of the culinary offerings, take a short trip outside the confines, and pack some memories.

Wilhelm joked the night before, you’ll be crying and wishing to extend at the end of your trip. Oh, how I yearned to forgo urban life for another day. I wondered when I could return again and bring loved ones so they too can be mesmerized as only an extent can be articulated.

I stood on my villa deck one last time, savoring this slice of the sun and ocean with mental clarity and a heart bursting with gratitude—it was just so beautiful, silent and uninterrupted. Spare me this moment of peace with these surroundings that I hope stay pristine and untouched.

While I have yet to visit the Maldives, Huma Island might very well be as close as I can get for now, or even better.

April / May 2015 Photo credit: Huma Island Resort and Spa

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SCOPE ICON

A Blessing with a Mission “The proclamation of a parish church as a minor basilica is truly a sign of the Church’s recognition not only of the deep history of the parish but also of its spiritual patrimony.

It is an honor granted by the Church not to many parish churches but with the honor comes a mission.”

– Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle in his Homily delivered at the Mass for the Declaration of the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Manaoag WORDS: MARIA NIMFA NADTJA H. VILLAVER PHOTOGRAPHS: NOEL TY

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A few months before the Papal visit in the Philippines, Filipinos received good news as Pope Francis granted the title ‘Minor Basilica’ to the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag in Pangasinan province. The Manaoag Shrine is one of the favorite pilgrimage sites in the country. It houses the image of Our Lady of Manaoag, one of the most venerated images of Mary in the country and is officially known as the patroness of the sick, the helpless and the needy.

The ‘Pilgrim Center of the North’ is 13th on the list of basilicas in the Philippines, which includes the Manila Cathedral, Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, and Basilica of Our Lady of Peñafrancia in Bicol.

WHAT MAKES A CHURCH A BASILICA?

The word basilica comes from a Greek term meaning “royal house.” In the Catholic world, a basilica is a church building that has been accorded special privileges by the pope.

According to the website, stspeterandpaulbasilica.com, there are two kinds of basilicas: major and minor basilica.

There are only four major basilicas in the world: St. John Lateran, St. Peter, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and St. Mary Major. They are all located in Rome and are distinguished by the holy door. These basilicas are also prescribed as destinations for visits as one of the conditions for gaining the Roman Jubilee.

Only the Pope and his delegates may celebrate mass at the high altar.

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SCOPE ICON > Continued from page 66 enshrined in the high altar of the Church, is several centuries old and is said to possess miraculous powers.

Pilgrimages reach their peak during the Lenten and Easter seasons, during the months of May and October, and the feast of the Holy Rosary.

(L-R) Jose de Venecia, former five-time speaker of the House of Representatives; Pangasinan Governor Amado Espino, Jr. and wife Priscilla Espino; Mark Cojuangco, former representative of 5th district of Pangasinan, and wife Kimi Cojuangco; Pangasinan Congresswoman Gina de Venecia; Presidential sisters Ballsy Aquino-Cruz and Viel Aquino-Dee

Minor, or lesser, basilicas are significant churches in Rome and elsewhere in the world that meet certain criteria and are given special ecclesiastical privileges. Minor basilicas are traditionally named because of their antiquity, dignity, historical value, architectural and artistic worth, and/or significance as centers of worship. A basilica must “stand out as a center of active and pastoral liturgy,” according to the 1989 Vatican document Domus Ecclesiae.

The minor basilica is also given the right to use the papal symbols, which also indicates that a church is a lesser basilica. The first is the presence of the conopaeum—a silk canopy designed with stripes of yellow and red, traditional papal colors. The second is the tintinnabulum, or bell. It is mounted on a pole and carried processionally, along with the conopaeum, at the head of the clergy on special occasions. Third, minor basilicas have the right to display the papal symbol—crossed keys—on

banners, on furnishings, and on the seal of the basilica.

In addition, the basilica’s rector may wear a black mozetta, or cape, with red piping, buttons, and buttonholes in the exercise of his office.

The shrine’s history traces back to the 1600s, when the Augustinians built a chapel in Manaoag. It was then turned over to the Dominicans in 1605 and a large church commenced in 1701. The expansion of the church began in 1882 but was damaged after an earthquake hit in 1892 and a fire blamed on revolutionaries in 1898.

The miraculous image of the Virgin of Manaog narrowly missed destruction.

The image was canonically crowned in 1926, which means “the Church through the Holy See officially recognized and proclaimed that the Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag had granted favors and blessings to her devotees through the centuries.”

HISTORICAL VALUE OF APO BAKET

Folk tradition has it that the Blessed Mother showed herself to a middle aged farmer and gave him the message on where she wanted her church to be located. She showed herself on a low tree amidst the glow of heavenly light. Manaoag is known more as a pilgrimage town than anything else. Every Saturday and Sunday, thousands of people converge on this town to attend mass, pray the rosary, offer flowers and light candles.

The center of devotion is the Lady of the Holy Rosary, otherwise known as Nuestra Señora de Manaoag or plainly called Apo Baket.

The ivory image of our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag which is

(L-R) Three Filipino cardinals concelebrated the solemn proclamation Eucharistic celebration: Gaudencio B. Rosales, D.D., Cardinal-Archbishop Emeritus of Manila; Luis Antonio Tagle D.D., S. Th.D., Archbishop of Manila; and Orlando Beltran Quevedo, OMI, D.D., Archbishop of Cotabato

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SCOPE ICON > Continued from page 69

Eucharistic Communion, and prayer for the intention of the Supreme Pontiff ): on the anniversary of the dedication of the same basilica; on the day of the liturgical celebration of the title; on the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles; on the anniversary of the granting of the title of basilica; once a year on a day to be determined by the local Ordinary; once a year on a day freely chosen by the each of the faithful.”

TAGLE: WITH THE HONOR COMES A MISSION

In 2011, Manaoag Shrine was granted a “special bond of spiritual affinity” with the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome. The shrine is also the parish church of the Archdiocese of Lingayen Dagupan.

SPIRITUAL BENEFITS: INDULGENCE FOR CHURCHGOERS

Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas said the elevation of the church status means the spiritual benefits that one gains by visiting the papal basilicas will also be received by those visiting the Shrine of Manaoag.

One of these benefits is a plenary indulgence, “the remission before God of the temporal punishment due sins already forgiven as far as their guilt is concerned,” Paul VI said in the apostolic constitution Indulgentiarum Doctrina.

The Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments said: “The faithful who devoutly visit the basilica and within it participate in any sacred rite or at least recite the Lord’s Prayer and the profession of faith may obtain a plenary indulgence under the usual conditions (sacramental confession, 70

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Papal Nuncio to the Philippines, Archbishop Guiseppe Pinto, led the ceremony that was concelebrated by three cardinals – Cardinals Luis Antonio Tagle, Orlando Quevedo, and Gaudencio Rosales. LingayenDagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas spearheaded the dozens of bishops and hundreds of priests, religious women and men.

MISSION #1: BE A SYMBOL OF GOD’S PRESENCE

In Cardinal Tagle’s homily, he considered the minor basilica an “effective symbol of God’s desire to dwell among his people” as the first reading from the Prophet Ezekiah reminds us.

“Marami namang nagpapaalala sa atin na ang Diyos ay kapiling natin. Pero ang isang tahanan katulad ng basilica iba po ang nagiging impluwensiya sa mga tao. Sa katulad ng Basilica ng Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag, ang daming anak [na makakauwi] dito, makakaiyak, makakahinga ng loob, hihingi ng tawad, hihingi ng tulong, magpapasalamat, magpupuri, alam niya nasa tahanan siya ng kanyang Ama. So the presence of a church, of a basilica, is a strong proclamation: you are never alone, hindi kayo nagiisa, kapiling niyo ang Diyos,” Tagle said.

He encouraged the devotees to be a constant symbol of God’s presence to others. Our salvation depends if we see God in our neighbor, the poor, the hungry, the thirsty, and homeless.

“May people see God in us and may we God in people even in [our] enemies.”

MISSION #2: PRAYER WITH OTHERS

The second point comes from the second reading. The basilica is a house of prayer. The disciples were not alone in praying. The Blessed Mother Mary was with them.

What do we say in our prayer? Often we pray for our own needs but do we pray for others? Cardinal Tagle advised the people to avoid the “Ako! Ako! Ako!”(Me! Me! Me!) mentality when praying.

“Hindi masama na ipagdasal ang sarili but in that first basilica, in the cenaculum, it was a prayer for creation groaning for the coming of the Holy Spirit,” Tagle reminded the devotees.

MISSION #3: VISIT OTHERS AND BRING GOD’S WORD TO THEM

The Gospel reading is a beautiful passage of the visitation. In the Bible, Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth.

What makes a basilica truly a missionary place and the devotees truly missioners of God is the call to constant visitation.

“People who visit here will be visited

by God. But when you are visited by God you have to go on mission to visit other people, bringing God and God’s word to them.”

References: http://www.manaoagshrine.org/index. php?option=com_content&view=article&id= 67&Itemid=56 http://www.stspeterandpaulbasilica.com/ what-makes-a-basilica

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SCOPE FOOD

An Authentic Japanese Gastronomic Experience WORDS: MARIA NIMFA NADTJA H. VILLAVER PHOTOGRAPHS: NOEL TY

A long the busy streets of Malate in Manila, flaunts the rustic charm of Asia’s serenity from the façade to its interiors. The Filipino, familyowned Japanese restaurant, Izakaya Kenta, is a cut above the rest for its authenticity drawn by the owners’ amore to Japanese culture.

clandestine, it’s just a few meters away from Remedios Circle; and a few minutes walk from Malate Church, Roxas Boulevard, and nearby commercial establishments.

A THRESHOLD TO ASIA’S SERENITY

Your authentic Japanese experience begins soon as you set foot inside Izakaya Kenta. The countryside feel brought by the use of the wood for

The Medina family considered Japan as their second home, where they lived for a couple of years when the head of the family ‘Doc Rey’ studied at Kyushu University for his doctorate degree in hydrologic engineering. He brought with him his wife and eldest son, Ian. It was also in Japan where his wife gave birth to their two other children: Sakura and Elwyn. The Medina children spent their early childhood years in the same country, making them attached to its culture. No wonder why Doc Rey bought the rights when his favorite Japanese restaurant in Manila ceased its operations after 13 years of serving scrumptious foods.

In 2013, Izakaya Kenta re-opened in a sophisticated location. Originally located in Pedro Gil, the restaurant moved along Adriatico Street, nearer to the Japanese Embassy and shipping companies in Malate.

Though the area might seem

tables and chairs affirms the original connotation of Izakaya (居酒屋), a casual place for those who are into after-work drinking.

Private rooms are also available to cater small group and exclusive gatherings. Every room is accentuated with tatami mats, which came all the way from Japan. What’s unique about the design is the space apportioned below the dining table. In this way, customers can avoid knee numbness and still experience the traditional Japanese style.

The cultured interior, which complements the mouthwatering menu, can be credited to the youngest of the Medina children, Elwyn Medina, an architecture graduate from the University of Sto. Tomas.

Aside from his contributions in the design, he oversees the restaurant operations.

AUTHENTICITY UNEARTHED

With the diverse selection of Japanese restaurants in the Metro, authenticity has always been the question—and Japanese cuisine is very diverse.

The father & sons team of Doc Rey, Chef Ian and Architect Elwyn symbolize a culture of cooperation in a family business.

“Kabisado naming yung pagkain ng Hapon. Ito ung pinakamalapit talaga.

Yung magpapatunay yung mga Hapon na mismo,” shares Doc Rey when he noted that majority of their customers are Japanese.

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BEST SELLER 1. Nanaten Mori – 7 kinds of Sashimi (Salmon, Tuna, Amaebi, Uni, Aji, Hotate and Hamachi) 2. Nigiri Moriawase Jou – Sushi Set (Salmon, Tuna, Ebi, Hamachi,Hotate, Uni Gunkan, Ikura Gunkan, Tamago with 6 slices of tekka maki)

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The true essence of Japanese dishes lies in the menu – how and who prepared it. A Japanese chef, properly trained by a master, is a big factor in maintaining the Japanese standard of service. And this is exhibited in Izakaya Kenta.

Alongside the restaurant’s Japanese Master Chef is Chef Dennis Ganzon, who has more than 20 years of experience in the local and international kitchen. Chef Dennis also served as the head chef in the original restaurant preserving the recipes well-loved by its customers.

Preserving traditional cuisine while infusing modern taste is Chef Ian’s contribution to their family-owned restaurant. He crafts new sushi recipe like the Nippon steak maki; and adds twist to the customary sushi.

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The eldest of the Medina children has a background in culinary from the Center for Culinary Arts in Manila, and is a graduate of the Sushi Chef Institute in Torrance, California.

“A good meal is eaten first with the eyes, then with the nose and finally with the mouth. Satisfy these and the stomach will rejoice.”

-old Chinese proverb SATISFYING JAPANESE CRAVINGS

Izakaya Kenta’s picturesque presentation of its dishes flavors the customer’s expectation of the taste and stimulates his earlier appetite.

The hand-pressed sushi are carefully molded and draped over with topping. The raw fish and meat of the popular Japanese delicacy sashimi are perfectly sliced into thin slices draped over a garnish. Its typical garnish is Asian white radish, daikon, shredded into long thin strands, accompanied by green perilla leaf. All seafoods and other ingredients are guaranteed very fresh because rhey are shipped daily from Japan.

tingin sa Japanese food mahal agad, pero abot kaya naman,” clarifies Architect Elwyn when asked about the menu prices.

Chef Ian considers the dining experience is “sulit.” Every dish comes with an authentic Japanese touch and is served in big portions.

MORE THAN JUST A FAMILY BUSINESS

Most family-owned businesses struggle to survive but with the Medina family, it’s a journey. It’s a collaboration of an engineer (Doc Rey), a chef (Ian), a doctor (Sakura), and an architect (Elwyn),v in sharing their passion for food.

More than a restobar, Izakaya Kenta is a place where people can feel the love for Japanese culture while enjoying life, food, and drinks.

AUTHENTIC BUT AFFORDABLE

You might be surprised upon checking Izakaya Kenta’s menu that it’s not pricy compared to other fine dining restaurants. “Pag Filipino, ang

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MUST TRY 3. Tako Potato – Deep fried potato balls filled with tako (octopus) 4. Okonomiyaki – Seafood pancake/pizza (squid, shrimp, pork slice, and cabbage) topped with Okonomiyaki sauce and Katsuobushi flakes

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Izakaya Kenta Japanese Restaurant Manila, Philippines Commercial Unit B, G/F Malate Bayview Mansion, 1781 M. Adriatico St. Malate Manila 1004 Telephone: +632.523.1874 Mobile: +63.916.218795, +63.939.5565014 Email: izakayakenta@gmail.com www.facebook.com/izakayakenta

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

TRESTON INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE THE INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE FOR BUSINESS HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM

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American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) Academic Certifications for Hotel and Restaurant Management, Tourism and Travel Management students American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification for Culinary Management students

uc in Omnia-Lead in all things has been the guiding credo of Treston International College, the International College for Business Hospitality and Tourism. Guided by this principle, Treston has mastered the Art of Excellent and Ethical Education in producing globally competent and ethical graduates who will become champions of positive change and progress.

Treston International Colleges’ world-class campus provides the best learning environment and experience with its hotel like setting, fully equipped kitchen laboratories, travel laboratory, hotel simulation rooms, and computer laboratories with MAC and HP units. To create a balance with academics and extra-curricular activities, Treston’s fully airconditioned Multi-purpose hall with a seating capacity of 1,000 houses the physical and socio-civic activities of its students. Treston has its very own Health Club inclusive of fitness gym and studios, spa, sauna and steam rooms which the academic and wider community can enjoy.

Treston’s unique education system and approach is geared toward the holistic and professional development of every student to transform him/her into a work-ready graduate.

Treston has integrated the following international and industry-recognized certifications and trainings to its two schools – School of Hospitality and Culinary Management and School of Business and Technology: IBM and HP Professional Certifications for IT students Registered Marketing Professional (RMP) Certifications for Marketing students

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For more information on Treston International College and its academic courses, email admissions@treston.edu.ph or call (632) 819-6167 or (632) 819-6183.

You may also visit the school atApril University Parkway District, 32nd St. corner C-5 Road, Bonifacio Global City 1632 BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM / May 2015

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Bachelor of Science in Travel Management Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management School of Business and Technology Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Marketing Management Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship (NEW!) In addition to the roster of academic courses, Treston International College will be offering Pre-University Programs for Grades 11 and 12 in 2016 specializing in the Accountancy Business and Management (ABM) Academic strand and Technical Vocational in Home Economics.

STUDENTS’ SUCCESS STORY Treston’s student life spells success with the various educational learning and exposures locally and internationally. As a testament to this, Treston’s very own IT geniuses: Gabriel Villanueva, Jomarie Marquez and Neo Tuquero, won the World Championship for Microsoft’s 2014 Imagine Cup–User Experience Challenge for Innovation besting other colleges and universities worldwide.

In Treston, students and graduates alike excel in the corporate world. Mikaela Mendoza a 4th year BSHRM student, is a proud owner of iSuites Hotel in Quezon City.

Fresh business graduates Gieli Asiado and Patrick Santos were already featured as the cover story of Business World University Edition as successful online entrepreneurs.

For both schools, Treston has partnered with Hotel and Tourism Management Institute Switzerland (HTMi) and Sprott-Shaw College (SSC), a private Canadian educational institution headquartered in British Columbia. Upon graduation, students will receive an SSC international diploma on top of a Treston baccalaureate diploma giving them an international edge towards a fulfilling career in their area of specialization.

Treston is also the first global academic partner of American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) in the country.

BE PART OF TRESTON’S SUCCESS STORY Treston International College is strategically located at the University Parkway District in 32nd St. corner C-5 Road in Bonifacio Global City with other international schools such as International School Manila and The British School Manila, to name a few.

Follow Treston’s Success Story and visit http://www.treston.edu.ph or like them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/trestonph

PROGRAM OFFERINGS Treston’s School of Hospitality and Culinary management specialize in the business of hospitality and tourism, catering to the different service and operational aspects of the industry and thereby producing its next generation of leaders. Of equal importance is harnessing the entrepreneurial, marketing and technology skills and knowledge of students under the School of Business and Technology.

School of Hospitality and Culinary Management Bachelor of Science in Culinary Management Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management

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SCOPE FOOD

Taste of Summer

Gefseis Greek Grill: Urbiztondo, San Juan La Union F: facebook.com/GefseisGreekGrill | Merry Moo! F: facebook.com/Merrymoo.icecream D Salas Kainan: 2039 Dagupan Extension Corner Raxabago Street, Tondo, Manila F: facebook.com/DSalasKainan

Food is memory. While others travel to get away and experience a new set of adventure—to get lost—some wander to simply broaden a culinary palette. And proving that tasting is indeed the best way to do it, we have compiled some of the most !"#"$%&'#"(&)(*"##(&)(+"+,-&'#"(.,,!(/0!)(&)(-"1,-%"!('2(,3-(.&4,-5%"(.,,!5")6( Summer may not be perennial, but with these delightful, cold pick-me-uppers, it can be!

LEMON CAKE

Gefseis Greek Grill Zesty. Refreshing.

Creamy.

This slice of bliss is the perfect balm to a postsurfing body ache with its perfect meld of sweetness and tang that just melts in your mouth.

Rean Cruz Instagram: @reancz

!

SEA SALT CARAMEL

COFFE JELLY

ICE CREAM

D Salas Kainan

Merry Moo! Eating ice cream is an essential summer indulgence, and Merry Moo proves that unconventional flavors are in.This artisanal and homemade ice cream offers quirky flavors like Candied Bacon, Strawberry Basil, Earl Grey Tea, and Sea Salt Caramel (my personal favorite).

Melt-in-your-mouth coffee jelly paired with the creamy goodness of milk granita. D Salas’ Coffee Jelly is an affordable serving of refreshing goodness that always remind me of a balmy summer day.

Erika Rodriguez Instagram: lourdeikae

Rose Anne Bacayo Instagram: herecomesrosan

HONGKONG:

Unexpected goodness Cold Steamed milk with red beans (left) and lotus nut (right) Yee Shun Milk Company Two cups of chilled milk pudding for a more satisfying way to meet your daily calcium requirements.

Recommended for all ages.

Katrina Aligam Instagram: @katrinaligam

JAPAN:

UK:

Desserts wonderland

As fresh as it gets I’ve never smelled strawberries as good as these—flushed with a healthy glow of freshness—I had to run to the stall and buy straight away. So lovely!

Mary Rea-Wilkinson @loosearoundtheedges.wordpress.com

Summer means freedom and freedom means good food anytime, anywhere.

Japan offers the best sweets and desserts perfect for a hot, sunny day. The choices are endless from pastries, drinks, decadents to mouthwatering crepes.

Carlo Delantar Instagram: @carlodelantart April / May 2015

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S P ECI A L A D V E RT I S ING F E AT U R E

DAMAGED HAIR, DON’T CARE! Ready for summer? You may have an arsenal of sunscreen and an entire summer wardrobe, but is your hair primed to brace the heat?

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1. The posh, modern interiors at Emphasis Salon greet you with a warm welcome. Friendy staff will assist you with your needs.

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he first thing to remember about hair is that, like your skin, it too is susceptible to damage over excessive sun exposure. Add to that the amount of sea water that may strip off your hair’s natural oils, summer, it can be argued, can spell serious problems to your glorious mane. But worry no more! From preconditioning to damage treatment, this posh, salon-de-jour in Rockwell, Makati has all you need to flaunt those healthy summer waves. And more.

2. The salon carries several world-famous brands like Kérastase, L’Oréal, Pureology, Davines, Moroccanoil, Cynos, Coppola Keratin Complex, etc.

Emphasis Salon is located at the Ground Floor of Joya Towers, Plaza corner Joya Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati City.

Call 917 8429699 | +63 2 4030117 | +63 2 4030119 to book an appointment. The salon is open from Monday-Sunday from 9:00AM - 8:00PM. BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM April / May 2015 80 +63 For inquiries, visit their Facebook page @EmphasisSalonRockwell or follow them on Instagram @emphasis_salon.

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S P ECI A L A D V E RT I S ING F E AT U R E

THE KÉRASTASE ROOM This chic, blanc room inside Emphasis Salon offers the ultimate, more personalized Kérastase experience. Pushing the boundaries of professional hair care with its newest hair innovation treatments, the Fusio-Dose™, you can be assured that whatever hair concerns you may have, there’s a specialized product and service to address them.

4. The private, luxurious Kérastase room is an exclusive space of white and clean interiors.

TRY Kérastase: Fusio-Dose™ treatment (valued at a minimum of Php1950.00 *price subject to hair length and hair needs) This treatment can transform the hair fibre with in-depth penetration by infusing pure, active ingredients to create an ultra-personalized formulation.

It starts by diagnosing the main concerns of your hair, whether it’s coloured, weak, thick, thinning, or dry, which would then give your stylist an idea of what set of Kérastase Concentrates and Boosters your hair needs.

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“The Kérastase room is a lush, private area ideal for small events or get together; and the Fusio-Dose™ treatment caps this wonderful experience. I’d definitely schedule another treatment session.”

–Mary Portez, Managing Editor

3. The Kérastase: Fusio-Dose™ treatment starts with a relaxing scalp massage as your stylist washes your hair prior to the treatment.

Emphasis Salon offers other services like waxing, threading, manicure & pedicure, facial & body care, and spa packages.

Hair services include cut, color, highlights, rebonding, perm, and Keratin smoothing treaments.

Dermatological Treatments are facilitated by Dr. Quitiquit Clinic Hours: 11:00A.M.-2:00P.M. *by appointment only

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BISITA BATANGAS WEEKEND GETAWAY AT LIMA PARK HOTEL “We would like to rekindle the interest in the province of Batangas. Today, more than ever, we feel that Batangas is ready to welcome back tourists, vacationers, and visitors. It is the time for Batangas to reclaim its spot as the best tourist destination just right outside Metro Manila.”

– Saturnino G. Belen, Chairman, Lima Park Hotel

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n November 2013, Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto signed a Provincial Ordinance declaring the first day of December of every year as the launching day of Bisita Batangas.

The ordinance, passed and approved by Vice Governor Jose Antonio Leviste III and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Batangas, aims to promote and strengthen tourism as the main contributor to the social and economic welfare of the Province.

CHARMING BATANGAS Just a few hours away from Manila, there are a number of interesting spots to visit in this province. This Lent, Batangas is an ideal retreat to find solace and reflection as it houses some of the oldest and most beautiful churches in the country. In Lipa, one will find a treasure trove of churches including the Metropolitan Cathedral of Sebastian, the miraculous Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, the Parish of Mary, Mediatrix of all Grace, the Parish of St. Therese of the Child Jesus. In Sto. Tomas there is the Shrine of St. Padre Pio. In Balete, there is the Marian Orchard.

For adventure seekers, Mt. Maculot is a popular hiking site located at the heart of the province. Mountaineers and hikers suggest that the perfect time to climb this beautiful mountain is during March or April as the weather is just right. You can reach Mt. Maculot by car, bus, or jeep to Cuenca, Batangas.

And for the traveling foodie, Batangas offers more than its signature black coffee. From the local markets to hawker stands and food establishments, Batangas boasts a distinct, bold flavor of heritage and passion for good food.

Batangas is a complete destination for heritage, religious, historical, agricultural, and culinary adventures. And when in Batangas, make Lima Park Hotel your home away from home.

MODERN ACCOMMODATIONS MEET BATANGUEÑO HOSPITALITY Lima Park Hotel boasts six types of room accommodations: Superior, De Luxe, Premiere Luxe Suite, Executive Suite, and Governor’s Suite.

Each room has a bathtub, in-private toilet and bath, hot and cold shower, wide double beds, cable television, safety deposit boxes, in-room coffee and tea making facilities, a mini bar, and unlimited wireless Internet access. Of course, a complimentary breakfast is given to guests, plus newspapers. Some rooms also have a direct access to the pool area. Add to these is the breathtaking view of the landscape including the majestic Mt. Makiling and Mt. Malarayat. You can expect nothing more than the distinctive hospitality offered by the locals of Batangas: friendly, and always accommodating.

This 2.2-hectare hotel also boasts nine event spaces named after a town or city in Batangas, and two ballrooms. Each function room can accommodate 30 to 100 pax, depending on the configuration, while the Fidelis Ballroom can house 250 people and the Batangas Grand Ballroom as much as 1,200 for cocktails.

Just recently, Lima Park Hotel launched the all-glass fully airconditioned Occasions Garden House, perfect for weddings, wedding proposals, debuts, or any of life’s milestones. Adjacent is the romantic Gazebo that sits on a well-manicured lawn.

Whether it’s a romantic weekend getaway, an intimate gathering of family and friends, a large convention, or a corporate event, this is where you should be—at Lima Park Hotel.

Have a great stay!

Hotel is located inside Lima Technology Center, Malvar, Batangas. For inquiries, call +63 43 9811555 | +63 9175042385 or reservations@limaparkhotel.com.

You2015 may also visit www.limaparkhotel.com for more information.

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CELL-BASED THERAPY: BEATING SPORTS INJURIES AND ARTHRITIS IN A REGENERATIVE WAY

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ummer is a great time to exercise or play your favorite sports. Sports enthusiasts and athletes put their bodies on the line all in the name of the game. Along with stretching those muscles, sports injuries may result, such as sprains, tendonitis, tears, ligament injuries, tennis and golfer’s elbow. Soft tissue injuries may take a long time to heal, and athletes can’t afford to be away from the game for a long period of time.

The good news is that an innovative set of medical therapies called Regenerative Medicine has emerged to provide noninvasive and non-surgical ways of treating various ailments and conditions.

REPAIR AND HEAL Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is blood plasma that has been enriched with platelets. When injury occurs, platelets are among the first repair cells that travel to the injury site and produce blood clots to prevent excessive bleeding.

and occurs after the age of 40. Patients are frequently advised to undergo knee replacement surgery. Aside from the lengthy recovery period, success of the operation may be uncertain due to titanium implants.

GIVE A FACE-LIFT Recently, PRP therapy has also been utilized in aesthetics. With PRP therapy, the growth factors aid in replenishing the skin volume and restoring the skin elasticity.

SAFE. EFFECTIVE. REASONABLE PRICE. “It helped a lot. I was cured. I was able to walk. I was even able to dance. So, I would recommend it to anyone who needs it. In fact, I have a friend who I already told it to, and I think he’s getting excited about it.”

– Selerina Solidum, 76 years old, former arthritis patient In PRP therapy, a small amount of a patient’s blood is extracted and spun to develop a concentration of platelets and growth factors naturally found in the body. Then, the PRP is injected into the damaged area. In addition to stimulating the body to heal itself, the platelet ‘graft’ serves as a biological scaffold that provides an optimal condition towards speedy recovery.

Platelets are rich in many different growth factors that help attract other repair cells or “worker cells” that allow normal healing to take place. Our tendons and ligaments have poor blood supply, which leads to an incomplete or much delayed healing response.

Every injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) helps bring these natural healing cells to an area where blood supply is deficient, thereby allowing the body to repair the tissue faster.

IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE One must be ready to face the reality of aging. The most common degenerative disease is arthritis, which commonly affects the knee “As much as possible, we don’t want our patients to be subjected to knee replacement because one of the problems they’ll encounter in the future is quality of life. Say, at the age of 50, you’re healthy but you can’t walk smoothly. With PRP, our goal is to improve the quality of life,” shares Dr. Eric Yalung, MD, Regenestem Manila Medical Director.

The success of the PRP therapy depends on the process and the growth factors achieved. Regenestem Manila uses a TriCell kit, a specialized machine used exclusively by the clinic. PRP therapy is relatively cheaper compared to surgical operations that costs thousands of dollars. Sessions vary depending on the damaged area. For sports injuries, it usually takes about 3-4 monthly sessions.

“My blood sugar improved. I don’t feel the pain. I tend to be more relaxed. I tend to be more active now. Life really is worth living for.”

– Jesus Jacobe, Former arthritis patient

Regenestem Manila Regenestem Manila is the first clinic in Asia of Regenestem, the international medical practice company focused on providing the most comprehensive and up-to-date stem cell treatments to patients from around the world.

Located in Manila, Philippines, the clinic is composed of highly-qualified and experienced doctors and professionally-trained medical staff. Its state-of-theart facility is equipped with the most advanced technologies available for the treatment, therapy, and follow up care of patients with medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, sports injuries, or those seeking anti-aging remedies, among other conditions.

Regenestem Manila’s Medical Director, Dr. Eric Yalung, a prominent Filipino cosmetic surgeon with more than a decade of experience; together with wife Regenestem Manila’s Head Dermatologist Anna Yalung MD, an accomplished physician with more than ten years of experience in providing excellent skin care, treatment, and on-point diagnosis to patients in the Philippines and abroad.

For more information on Regenestem Manila and its services, visit regenestem-manila.com.

For inquiries call (+632) 245 2200 | +63 9175414164 | +63 9157946758 or email info@regenestemmanila.com.

April / May 2015 Regenestem Manila is located at 2/F Belson House, 271 EDSA, Corner Connecticut, Mandaluyong City.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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1. Crystal Choi, Korean Guest Service Officer; Marvey Noble, Bartender; Anna Escober, Bartender; Mae Ann Saycon, Spa Therapist 2. Lyndon Solitario, Bellman; Rose Ann Aves, Guest Service Officer; Andre Puller, Bellman 3.

Nenette Castillon, General Manager; Hannah Lood, PR Officer; Danica SottoPingris 4. Ribbon Cutting by Danica Sotto-Pingris and Nenette Castillon 5.

Giveaways 6. Jean Michel Sotto-Pingris 7. Karina Magbanua, Sales Admin; Hilary Padila, Sales Account Executive; Yehl Martinez, Training Officer; Danica Sotto-Pingris; Catherine Pepito, Training Officer; Tiffany Irina Tan, Sales Account Executive 8. Bella Ymadhay; Clavel Ymadhay; Edz Plotnicov; Aleksei Plotnicov; Daniela Katherine Plotnicov

Aliens are in town! Plantation Bay Resort and Spa brings back its annual Summer Frolix Promo with the theme “Outer Space.” Local residents and balikbayans staying for at least 3 nights can enjoy 20% off their room rates plus P4,000 worth of gift certificates applicable for Food and Beverage, Spa, and Island Hopping.

Children and the young at heart will also enjoy the resort’s outer-space themed game booths at its Orion Beach featuring Space Blast, Alien Shooter, Space Black Hole, Crater Crunch, Lucky Aliens, and UFO Toss.

Enjoy this special offer from March 01 to June 30, 2015. For inquiries and reservations, BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM April / May 86 contact +63 32 505 9800 (Cebu) and2015 +63 2 844 5024 to 25 (Manila).

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SCOPE need to know

SUMMER GLOW

Tip from the expert: Subscribe to BalikBayan Magazine’s Youtube channel to watch an exclusive interview with Dr. Reyes as she talks about what you need to know to get that healthy, glowing skin this summer.

What you NEED to know to get that healthy, glowing skin The key to a glowing complexion is a healthy, well-treated skin.

According to Dr. Kaycee Reyes of Luminisce Clinic, your face is the most forgiving skin on your body. And although the skin on your face heals faster than that of the other parts on your body, it demands a more diligent care.

This summer, the best accessory you can sport—part from a toned physique—is a radiant skin aglow of summer bliss. From preventive skin regiments to products for particular skin types, all that’s missing for a perfect summer getaway is your sun-kissed tan. Read on.

WORDS: MARY MAY PORTEZ ILLUSTRATIONS: KENNO SAMULDE

CLEANSE

Dr. Reyes suggests to get a facial wash with alpha hydroxy acid (consult your doctor which AHA is suited for your skin) that can really remove dirt. While washing your face in gentle, upward strokes with lukewarm or cold water massages your facial muscles.

Exfoliate Oily skin - every 2 weeks Combination skin 1x a month Tip: You should wash your face not longer than 2 minutes.

Ingredients like hyaluronic acid are known to bind water and promote skin fullness, while salicylic acid can prevent bacteria build up leading to blemishes and acne.

EAT. RIGHT.

Your skin, just like your body, needs proper nutrition. Eating food rich in vitamins and natural anti-oxidants can prevent skin aging.

Vitamin A to prevent wrinkles Vitamin B3 for better hydration Vitamin C for anti-aging and skin lightening Vitamin E for protection and moisture Vitamin K for brightening dark circles under your eyes (this ingredient is what you usually find in most eye creams)

HYDRATE

Drinking at least 1.5 liters of water a day can prevent dehydration. Facial sprays are also a great way to keep your skin moisturized during balmy summer days.

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More than 15 mins of shower can strip off your skin’s natural layers, thus resulting to dry skin.

Understanding wrinkles: There are two types of wrinkles, namely: Dynamic - also known as expressive or wrinkles in motion, forms on the face during expressions like smiling or frowning and may become permanently visible overtime.

PROTECT

Wearing a minimum of SPF 30 preferably with physical blockers like titanium and zinc oxide, can prevent skin aging and skin cancer.

Sunblock should be applied not just on your face but on your entire body even if you’re indoors.

Sporting sunglasses can also protect you from future facial wrinkles.

Static - the natural substances (collagen, elastic, hyaluronic acid) that give structure to the face decrease as we grow older. Skin cells regenerate at a slower rate favoring a specific orientation creating wrinkles.

Majority of foundations and other makeup usually have SPF 10 on top of the mentioned SPF content.

Starting a skin regimen at an early age can help slow down skin aging.

This can be a personalized habit of cleansing, moisturizing, etc..

Applying sunblock even when you’re indoor helps prevent skin aging and skin cancer.

Minimum SPF should be at least 30.

EXERCISE

With regular exercise of at least 3 times a week, you can promote better blood circulation which gives the skin its natural flushed glow. Studies also show that physical activities can maintain and control weight by burning stored fat as you use up oxygen in the body.

“Start young with a skin regimen. For distinct skin conditions, it’s best to consult your doctor for a more holistic treatment.

You have to find the cause and cure it.

It’s a commitment between patient and dermatologist.”

— Dr. Kristina Reyes MD, DCD MSC

The sun emits an addictive hormone called beta-MSH (beta-melanocytestimulating hormone) which is a happy hormone believed to treat skin conditions with regulated exposure.

Luminisce Holistic Skin Innovations 2/F Mercury Drug Bldg., 32nd Street corner 4th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig T: +632 511 8500 www.facebook.com/luminisce

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SCOPE culture

The tribes called Mangyan WORDS: CARLO DELANTAR PHOTOGRAPHS: JACOB MAENTZ

The Philippines consists of 82 provinces with different heritage, cultures, dialects, bylaws, food and people.

With 7,107 islands in the Philippines, heritage and culture are very rich. Although difficult to trace roots, the adventure of finding out is always rewarding. To be Filipino is to be a mixture of different provincial cultures, of different provincial history.

TRIBE

The Mangyans are the first inhabitants of Mindoro. At its present state, this tribe has gone through the test of time making them one of the few remaining indigenous people in the Philippines. Iraya, Alangan, Tadyawan, Tau-buid, Bangon, Buhid, Hanunoo and Ratagnon are the 8 different Mangyan groups. Mangyan is a collective term for the original inhabitants of Mindoro. Each tribe has its own unique traditions but what make these groups of tribes different are their distinctive formal bylaws with proper consequences for crimes committed.

The Mangyans live a semi-nomadic life where crops they harvest for self-consumption can move from different places forcing them to relocate.

The Katutubong Filipino Project is a project of Jacob Maentz and his wife Nahoma which aims to bring about awareness of the Philippine archipelagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s indigenous people by visually documenting their slowly changing and disappearing cultural heritage. To know more about this program and how you can help with its cause, visit www.katutubongproject.org.

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SCOPE culture The Mangyans, specifically the Hanunoo and Buhid tribes have indigenous scripts that are still being used in the Philippines today. The script was used to communicate between communities but mainly to write love poetry called Ambahan. Carved meticulously into bamboo, these scripts are rich testaments of Mangyan artistry.

PRODUCTS

Distinctively known for their weaves, Mangyan artisans create textiles, rattan baskets, nito baskets and beaded items. Beautiful patterns have been applauded for intricacy and accuracy. Stories of their tribe are interwoven into each product they sell. Lately, with the rise and demand of local products, a sudden boost of support has helped revive the tradition while also supporting the Mindoro tribes.

Mangyan products are frequently showcased around trade shows like Manila Fame to famous designers incorporating indigenous weaves for their designs.

Filipino heritage has been widely appreciated and embraced locally and internationally.

CHALLENGES

The Mangyans have seen the changing landscapeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; literally and figuratively. From the beginning, it has always been their challenge to go high up the mountains to escape foreign subjection from the Tagalogs, Chinese and Spanish. This has led them to a seminomadic-life, careful of outsiders.

At present, anyone who wishes to visit the tribe would need a formal approval from the current tribe leader or from the local Mayor. This is to make sure that their lineage and culture are protected and preserved.

FUTURE

The rise of technology and education has greatly affected these indigenous groups. Though this is a good sign of progress, preserving the heritage of the past has been a concern. The initiatives from groups like the Ayala Foundation where they provide livelihood opportunities and personal development for Iraya-Mangyans to the Malasimbo Festival which showcases the Mangyans to the international scene.

Slowly but surely, this tribe we call indigenous will be a constant reminder of where Filipinos come from.

A perfect example of how history shows progress: progress from a culture we can proudly call Filipino.

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“A Bangon Mangyan woman smoking kwako (tobacco). Bangon are known for their pipe, even young children can be seen smoking pipes.”

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SCOPE ARTS & MUSIC

The magic behind the mystical Mt. Malasimbo WORDS: CARLO DELANTAR PHOTOGRAPHS: BEA PUERTOLLANO

Every once in a while, we hear folklore stories in farflung places like they are mythical legends. For some reason, we tend to recall the littlest details not because we want to, but because we yearn to discover something new: a story we can own and share like we are part of the legend.

The annual Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, celebrates the start of summer in the Philippines. Now on its fifth year, it is a mystical gathering of art and nature lovers reveling over good music. Magic, as we say, emerges at night during the two straight weekends of the event. Each weekend provides a different experience, garnering worldwide attention of people of different races, backgrounds and ages.

During the first weekend, Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival brought in a plethora of talents celebrating Nature and Love. From the visual artists like Melanie Gritzka Del Villar’s Aureola, “I feel the trees,” who challenged us to see the beauty of trees that collectively become nature to the mixtures of music like Fred Wesley and the New JB’s playing Funk, Bleu Rascals’ performance-packed Jazz, Brigada’s decade-long Tribal beats, to Ki-Mani Marley’s rendition of Bob Marley songs

that gave the beautiful amphitheater an aura of love. The first weekend awakened a beautiful epiphany that gave a better outlook on life – a yearly recurring effect to all participants.

While the first weekend gave us an earthly experience, the second week was the opposite. Malasimbo Lights & Dance Festival showcased a new concept for patrons where the experience was literally out of this world.

Dance groups like the Philippine All Stars and A team showcased creative choreography that challenged the body’s potential, while out-of-this world electronic music from Goldie and Japanese-born DJ Kentaro sent us to a jungle trance. While this was going on, the amphitheater was floating with neon bright lights giving a completely unique experience: an enchanting and multicolored daze.

The biggest appreciation goes to the festivalgoers of Mt. Malasimbo. Each day was filled with a sense of community. The age ranges were varied, yet everybody felt like they belonged. The balance of nature, technology, food, culture and people were so in sync that barriers were non-existent. Mt. Malasimbo is a place where everyone is equal, a place where we see an ideal world, a place of hope of an ideal future.

Packing up all your stuff feels right after the feasts for our senses. We go back to our life but with a sense of renewal. Our appreciation towards our surroundings and ourselves are heightened. As we question if Malasimbo really happened, we leave a part of us on that island.

The magic of Mt. Malasimbo concludes with: Did it really happen or was it all just a dream? You decide.

Whatever the case is, it will call you back next year.

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