Balikbayan August & September 2015 by Balikbayan Magazine

explorer 96 hours in pagudpud, ilocos norte shopper the ULTIMATE PASALUBONG FOOD GUIDE

w’s in you need to know. now.

POUR IT UP! THE BEST BARS IN METRO MANILA food GUIDE 01 the TASTE OF CEBU 02 the butcher shop 03 know your fish

ISSN 2012-4589

772012 458001 >

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GILMORE TOWER An affordable, solid real estate investment in New Manila

With thousands of condominiums springing up left and right all over Metro Manila, finding that perfect investment opportunity or place to live is quite the quandary. However, look no further than the Gilmore Tower in the New Manila, which offers rare opportunity to own a piece of a luxurious, urban dwelling in the center of the city certainly an unequivocal real estate investment. LOCATION IS EVERYTHING Gilmore Tower is strategically located near exclusive schools offering kindergarten to graduate school, worldclass hospitals, shopping centers, churches, public transportation such as the LRT Gilmore Station (purple line) and the newest Information Technology Center. Gilmore Tower guarantees its unit owners of a leisure living. 24-hour transportation is assured with far-reaching access to public transportation to nearly everywhere in the Metro such as Ortigas, Manila, Makati, or Quezon City. EXCLUSIVE SCHOOLS 01 St. Paul University 02 De La Salle University Greenhills 03 Xavier School 04 Trinity University of Asia 05 University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center (UERM) 06 Immaculate Conception Academy HOSPITALS 01 St. Luke’s Medical Center Manila 02 The Medical City 03 Cardinal Santos Medical Center CHURCHES 01 Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Shrine 02 Carmel of St. Therese of the Child Jesus 03 Sto. Domingo Church

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SHOPPING CENTERS 01 Robinsons Magnolia (walking distance) 02 Greenhills Shopping Center (5-min. drive) 03 Araneta Center (5-min. drive) A BUILDING WITH CHARACTER Gilmore Tower is not congested unlike other high-rise condominiums. The low density building has 450 residential units. The first three floors are allocated for commercial spaces such as restaurants and shops. Set on the right corner, the four phases of the building isn’t obstructed from nearby buildings within the area — inviting the positive energy to flow into this remarkably breathable landscape. PRESTIGIOUS UNITS Every unit in this residential high-rise embraces an elegance and sophistication with a unique architectural design. All units are loftstyle with an upstairs and downstairs.

Located upstairs, above the living and dining rooms, are your bedroom(s)—a unique design and style to provide you with a sense of privacy and open space. The first-class private residence has five different types of units on each floor. The building is complimented with (a) one bedroom unit with an area of 42 square meters; (b) 2-bedroom unit with 50 square meters; and (c) 3-bedroom unit with 58 square meters. All of the 3-bedroom units are located in the corners of the building. All units in Gilmore Tower are fully furnished and fitted. Each unit comes with complete bedroom set with builtin closet and toilet and bathroom upstairs. The ground floor have cozy living and dining room sets; together with wide-raging appliances from 36inch television set, refrigerator, aircondition unit/s, as well as lights and curtains. Other residential features include pre-fabricated kitchen cabinet system, stainless steel kitchen sink, solid surface lavatory countertop,

No. 2 Gilmore Avenue corner N. Domingo New Manila, Quezon Ciy

exhaust duct system for kitchen and bathroom, provision for hot and cold water supply lines, provision for cable TV lines and for one telephone line per unit. All units have breathtaking views facing nearby cities – Ortigas, Makati, Quezon City and Cubao; which enables each unit to have its own distinct view. REASONABLE PRICE The striking location and design of Gilmore Tower comes with a very affordable price for a fully furnished and fitted unit in a prestigious address. The project’s terms of payment are welcoming even for young professionals. Payment options include: (a) 20% down payment payable in 90 days and remaining balance payable in 5 years with zero interest; and (b) 20% down payment payable in three years (Php 19,000 a month) and balloon payment in the third year and remaining balance either two years with zero interest or 5-10 years with 15% interest.

All unit owners will enjoy one year free membership at Canyon Woods Tagaytay upon paying the 20% down payment. The developer can immediately award the individual titles to the unit buyers. At present, there are only less than a hundred units available at Gilmore Tower for pre-selling. All units will be turned over by 2nd quarter of 2016. Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in an exceptional residence. Visit the site at Gilmore Avenue.

For inquiries, visit their main office at 2nd and 3rd Floors, ACT Tower, 135 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Salcedo Village, Makati City 1227, or give them a call at +63 2 892 9827. For more information, go to www.g2globalinc.com/gilmore-tower.

LOADED AMENITIES The unparalleled array of amenities is positioned in one floor of the condominium. Amenities include: 01 Lap swimming pool 02 Aroma therapy garden 03 Jogging path 04 Function rooms 05 Spa 06 Gym 07 Play area 08 Day care SUPERIOR SERVICES & SECURITY 01 Grand lobby information area 02 Four (4) high-speed, interior finished passenger elevators 03 One (1) interior finished service (commercial) elevator 04 Closed-circuit TV (CCTV) monitoring for selected common areas 05 Intercom security system connecting reception/security counter to all units 06 24 hour security command center 07 Monitoring of all building facilities 08 Mail room 09 Water tank at the roof deck

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SPECI A L ADV E RTIS ING FE ATU R E

Belle Arte From Legacy to Luxury

BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL Rising in the heart of downtown Bacolod City’s Art Deco District is Belle Arte Residential Condominiums, an eight-story building that will bring back the elegant lifestyle of the city.

ART DECO INSPIRED ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIORS Belle Arte’s theme is inspired by its proximity to the iconic ancestral home of the developers—the art deco mansion of Generoso M. Villanueva known locally as Daku Balay on Burgos Street. Built in the mid-1930s, Daku Balay is the largest remaining architectural legacy of true art deco style in the Philippines. This represents Bacolod City’s once elegant lifestyle and the height of cultural modernism. In 1942, the Villanueva family had to evacuate Daku Balay when the Japanese Imperial Army seized the property. Luckily, the family and Daku Balay survived and withstood the years mired by war. Rising on the other end of the same property on Galo Street, Belle Arte seeks to pick up where the family patriarch left off and to fulfill Villanueva’s dream of developing Bacolod City with modern homes.

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Board of Directors and Officers Eduardo R. Villanueva, Chairman Maria Lilia V. Villanueva, President and COO Generoso V. Villanueva, Treasurer Mario R. Villanueva, Jr., Corporate Secretary Teodoro R. Villanueva, Director-Finance Ana Maria Isabel V. Salacata, MD, Director 01/02 Daku Balay, exterior views. 03 The iconic symbol of elegant living in Negro Occidental built in the 1930’s— Belle Epoch Sculpture at Capitol Lagoon, Bacolod City. 04 Marosvill President/COO Ma. Lilia V. Villanueva on Belle Arte site. 05 Architect von Einsiedel (seated) meets with engineers on site.

ELEGANT AMENITIES The newest project of Marosvill Development Corporation occupies 1,000-sqm and will equip each of their 67 residential units, from the second to the eighth floor, with art deco features in the interior as well as the exterior and common areas. Two units on the ground floor are reserved for commercial tenants. Old-world Concierge Services will be provided for owners, including trained housekeeping and chefs, car service and restaurant reservations, and suggestions for shopping and out-oftown trips. A modern fitness center will be available inside the building. Parking spaces are available on a first-come-first-serve basis. A 24/7 security system will be provided throughout the property. ABOUT THE DEVELOPER “To engage in the highest ideals of developing building projects that will enhance the architectural skyline of Bacolod City and elsewhere in Negros Occidental, contribute to the betterment of the economic and cultural

lives of its citizens through business ventures that are bold, creative, and lasting for generations to partake and enjoy.” This is the vision statement of Marosvill Development Corporation, the developer of Belle Arte Residential Condominiums; the same ideals that the shareholders learned from their patriarch grandfather, Generoso M. Villanueva. Composed of the heirs of Don Gener (as he was known) by his sons Mario and Oscar, Marosvill Development Corporation will engage in real estate property development and other related businesses that will fulfill their vision statement. Marosvill shareholders are actively seeking projects that are bold, creative, and have lasting legacy for future generations. Following in the footsteps of their grandfather who created iconic property developments such as Daku Balay (the largest private art deco residence in the country, built in 1936) and Sta. Fe Resort (the city’s first recreational resort that was open to the public in 1954).

Marosvill Development Corporation’s history is deeply rooted in the island’s sugar industry. The principals and shareholders have over fifty years of corporate experience in operating plantations and other agri-based businesses, real estate properties, including Sta. Fe Resort, as well as having served as board members of commercial and financial institutions, and several major banks.

For details, please visit www.belleartecondos.com or email liliavill@gmail.com.

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DIGITAL CHANNELS

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New home! After several months of development, we’ll be launching our newly designed website that is filled with new content, amazing photography, an online shop, travel features, business and investment opportunities, global views and perspectives from our renowned collection of columnists, and so much more. Stay tuned in the coming weeks for your newly constructed brigde to the Philippines.

ROUGH DRAFT ON THE TELENOVELA CHANNEL

Airing every Sunday at 7pm on the Telenovela Channel (TNC) is Rough Draft, the business, travel, and culture show of Balikbayan Magazine. With a collection of correspondents, the show spotlights the growth and development of a fast changing Philippines. Catch the full episodes on our Youtube Channel and subscribe today. Search: Balikbayan Magazine on youtube.com

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DO YOU HAVE A PHOTOGRAPH OR TRAVEL STORY YOU WISH TO BE PUBLISHED? OR HAVE A PLACE YOU WANT US TO FEATURE? OR WANT TO JOIN OUR TEAM? On July 31, 1946, Philippine Air Lines (PAL) became the first Asian airline to cross the Pacific Ocean when a chartered Douglas DC-4 ferried 40 American servicemen to Oakland, California from Nielson Airport in Makati. The flight had stopovers in Guam, Wake Island, Johnston Atoll, and Honolulu.

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Watch before you book. Thinking about your next family vacation? Watch our exploration of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte and see first hand why Hannah’s Beach Resort is the perfect place for you and your family. Subscribe to our youtube channel today for our Balikbayan Travels.

EXECUTIVE TEAM

SPECIAL ADV E RTIS ING FEAT U R E

Don Tim Development Corporation Delivering functional-premium homes built for your family. With a well-established record in the real estate industry, Don Tim Development Corporation (DTDC) continues to offer quality living at reasonable prices even in the prime real estate location of Tagaytay. AN ESTABLISHED COMPANY Don Tim Development Corporation’s (DTDC) history can be traced as far back as 1961 when it first began as an appliances company. After venturing into the shipping industry, they officially entered property development in 1981, focusing on projects within the confines of Cavite. Today, DTDC is a realty firm that develops residential projects in Cavite and Tagaytay. The firm continues to be known for functional-premium housing development, first rate features and amenities, reasonable prices, convenient locations, and customer-oriented service. STRONG SALES & MARKETING TEAM In its pursuit to provide Filipino families functional-premium housing communities, DTDC engages its superb Sales and Marketing team. At present, there are about 20-30 in-house and independent sales agents and brokers who believe in DTDC’s quality projects. “Tomorrow’s sales, begins with today’s service…”

This philosophy makes the DTDC’s Sales & Marketing team stand out. Every agent and broker is trained to carefully look after their clients even after they have signed the contract. Aside from its environment friendly developments with beautiful spaces, another strength is that DTDC turns over their projects on time. The team is equipped with solid support from the management. Tripping van is available any time for any of the projects. DTDC also conducts regular activities to compliment the team’s prospective clients through open house activities such as BBQ Cookout and Afternoon Tea. The company also has established tie-ups with various local and international banks to assist client’s bank loans. BE PART OF THE TEAM DTDC is inviting individuals who are interested to be part of the real estate industry and to be properly trained in handling clients. Good commission structure and on-time release of commissions await future agents and brokers.

TESTIMONIALS FROM DIVISION SALES MANAGERS “First of all, I would like to extend my profound gratitude for giving me a chance to express my heartfelt thanks to the company I have been with since 1992. The Don Tim Development Corporation believes in me and has supported me for 23 years now. At this company, I have learned the art of marketing skills and strategies which helped me become the Professional Licensed Real Estate Broker I am today. I am so thankful because I have been provided with so many career and personal opportunities that enabled me to achieve my goals and dreams. I am proud to be a member of the Don Tim Development Corporation family!”

“I started working at Don Tim Development Corporation since October 2014 and made my first sale during our open house in October 26. It’s easy to sell because my company’s concern is to deliver quality project with affordable price and flexible terms of payment. It’s really a ‘best buy’ investment in a well class subdivision. I’m proud I found a home. Join us and feel the beauty being with Don Tim Development Corporation.”

For more information, visit www.dontim.com.ph, or like them on Facebook at Don Tim Developmet Corp. For inquiries, call +632 8439471 / +63917 8258435 or email dontimco@gmail.com. SALES & MARKETING TEAM

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PUBLISHER & CEO PRESIDENT & CO-PUBLISHER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Vice President for Sales Vice President for Marketing and Special Events, Philippines managing editor EDITORIAL CONSULTANT FEATURES editor DIGITAL MEDIA STRATEGIST CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER CONTRIBUTING WRITERs

Roger L. Oriel Cora M. Oriel Raphael John C. Oriel Sharon Ann Bathan-San Pedro Vince F. Samson MARY MAY PORTEZ ROD CORNEJO MARIA NIMFA NADTJA H. VILLAVER CHRISTINA M. ORIEL

HAIDEE MARTIN-Provido, ej villafranca, CHARISSE TRINIDAD Kimberly delos Santos, GREG TRINIDAD, ROCELLE ANABEZA, KATrina DELA CRUZ, jazmine laboriante, marie madeline ramboyong

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KENNO SAMULDE james christer francisco godwin gasacao

LAYOUT-ARTIST & illustrator

ALLANA SANTOS

Accountant

Gemma C. Fabro

Admin and finance officer

Geralou Sagun

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ON THE COVER THE CORDILLERAS

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photographer JACOB MAENTZ Love this photo? Visit www.jacobimages.com for more stunning photographs by the founders of the Katutubong Filipino Project, Jacob Maentz and his wife Nahoma

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Urban Ashram Manila

Making yoga a fun and healthy family activity

AMAZING ME A yoga book proudly written in the Philippines Certified yoga teacher, graphic artist, and illustrator, Nica Hechanova, made a book for little yogis, yoginis, yoga mammas and daddas, yoga teachers and to all those that love yoga. Based on the Yoga Sun Salutation sequence, ‘Amazing Me’, is a book created to teach children (and the children at heart) how to transform their bodies into various yoga poses in a creative and fun way through her rich illustrations and imaginative descriptions. ‘Amazing Me’ will teach you how to transform your body into different elements found in nature. If you choose to practice yoga, through time, your body will become stronger and healthier.

In this rapidly changing world, finding the time to spend with our loved ones can be quite challenging— especially finding activities the entire family can enjoy. With Urban Ashram Manila’s latest yoga classes, families will not just enjoy each other’s company but also achieve health benefits together. The practice of yoga is beneficial physically, mentally, and emotionally for all ages. Practicing yoga together creates the perfect environment for connecting, bonding, and building a sense of community. FAMILY AND KIDS YOGA CLASS Family & Kids Yoga is a great tool for family members to unplug and

simply enjoy each other’s company. A typical class is a mix of active and relaxing yoga activities. Parents and children learn yoga through breath work, sun salutations, partner poses, playing yoga games and meditative activities. YOGA FOR KIDS Specifically designed for children ages 3-12 years old, Kids Yoga class is a combination of quiet, noisy, active, and relaxing activities like: storytelling, fun yoga games, singing and dancing. It is a fun way for children to develop important skills in a non-competitive environment and nurture their inner strength and self-acceptance.

www.UrbanAshramManila.com 6780 AYALA BRANCH 2/F 6780 Ayala Avenue, Makati City 818 6780 / 818 YOGA (9642) 0917866YOGA BRIXTON BRANCH Suite 302, 3 Brixton Street, Kapitolyo, Pasig City (02) 661 YOGA / 0917 881 YOGA HIGH STREET BRANCH 3rd Floor, Active Fun Building, 9th St. corner 28th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City (02) 869 YOGA / 0917 718 YOGA

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the INVESTMENT ISSUE

Publisher’s Note / Keeping a Journal

On July 23, 2015, NASA announced the discovery of Kepler 452b, better known as Earth’s bigger, older cousin. This is the first Earth-like planet ever to be found (as of this writing) in the habitable zone of a star that is similar to the Sun. Kepler 452b is so far away that it would take almost 30 million years to get there. NASA launched the Kepler spacecraft in 2009. The sole mission of Kepler is to discover Earth-like planets that orbit other stars. To say the least, Kepler is quite a complex and sophisticated spacecraft. It truly is remarkable what human beings can achieve, create, and envision. As I read this news story about Kepler 452b, a myriad of questions, thoughts, and emotions raced in my mind. And it got me thinking about footprints—about what we

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leave behind, what we impress, and whom we connect with during our time here on Earth. According to the World Bank’s World Economic Report, the Philippines currently has the highest unemployment rate of 7.3% compared to its regional neighbors such as Indonesia (6.2%), Singapore (3.1%), Malaysia (3%), and Thailand (0.6%). Today, the unemployment rate for the country’s youth, ages 18-24, is alarmingly at 16.3%. And each year, fresh college graduates will enter the workforce and look for a job. Given all of this, I strongly encourage you to come back to the Philippines and invest, start a business, or retire because frankly, the country cannot rely on the safety net of overseas employment. Just look at

what happened to Greece where 60,000 Filipinos live and work. Imagine—60,000 people who help support their families back in the Philippines. Because after all, shouldn’t we strive to live in a World where Filipinos don’t really have to work in Libya or Hong Kong? Yes, the country is growing and things have significantly improved over the past few years, but there’s just so much yet to be done. What I believe Kepler’s discovery teaches us is that although things might seem out of the realm of possibility, nothing in the universe is impossible. Roger L. Oriel CEO & Publisher Asian Journal Publications, Inc.

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Op en Secret / PHOTOGRAPH e r , NOEL TY

OCCIDENTAL MINDORO Just southwest off the coast of Batangas lies Occidental Mindoro, the mystical and serene province that is home to the Mangyan indigenous tribe. The island’s pristine, clear blue waters shimmers with incredible natural wonders that even the most experienced travelers simply cannot bypass. This beautiful island surrounded by some of the best white sand beaches the Philippines has to offer. Don’t want the party scene of Boracay but not the complete peace of Palawan? Then this island is for you. Just last year, due to the changing feeding patterns of tuna, Occidental Mindoro has emerged as the new ‘ Tuna Capital’ of the Philippines. The majority of the tuna being exported by the Philippines is now going to Japan, Korea, Australia, and even as far as Switzerland, Germany, and the United Kingdom come mostly from Mindoro Island.

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BUSINESS

Insights & Analysis

THE 5 W’S IN BUSINESS YOU NEED TO KNOW. now. Forget fads. If there’s one need constant, let alone profitable, in the world, that’s food. According to the recent study conducted by the Southeast Asian Regional Center (Searca) for Graduate Study and Research, 20 centavos of every peso spent on food go to rice alone. Now imagine the percentage from which that 20 cents were taken and everything (in this case, food) that can go with it.

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A typical Filipino adult eats about three to five times a day including light snacks and occasional nibbles. While the growing culture of eating out and grabbing to-go meals have also added to the tempting option to eat, it’s still a reasonable premise that 30% of one’s daily budget go to food consumption, respectively. This is quite a wary margin, but for an entrepreneur, it’s an opportunity. “You need at least 3 million in capital to start a restaurant,” shares Jazhiel Leuterio, a college instructor teaching Entrepreneurship, Facilities Management and Logistics Management classes to STI College’s BS Management graduating class and co-owner of Lava Resto Bar and Grill in Timog, Quezon City. “This amount would cover the structure, furniture/fixtures, machineries, utilities for the first six months, operating stocks, rent fee (if you’re renting) and at least 6 months of salaries for your employees.” Considering the average ROI (return of investment) of three years for food businesses, this number is arguably justifiable. But for the novice in business, it’s not so much the capital as it is the investment that truly entices. If you take a look at the current advertising campaigns, majority of the products are either food or beauty related: condiments, ready-to-eat, imported snacks, down to major food chains. Food is where the money is, apparently. So how can you efficiently venture into food business

and come out successful? We asked Buckaroos Restaurant and Lava Resto & Café owner Chef Epiphany “Epie” Roble the lowdown on the right ingredients to a moneymaking recipe for success. HERE’S WHAT Who. Like any business, you need to identify your target market. Who are your future customers and why? Do you single out a niche or do you generalize a wide margin of potential buyers? Knowing your market is the first step in determining your product and its possibilities. What. Considering your customers, what product can you offer? Mind the word “offer” as you need not give what they already have. Coming up with a product is much like creating a need. Business works on persuasion alongside the right kind of predictive marketing. And in the subject of food, there are two kinds of ideas: conventional and unconventional. When we talk about conventional, these are the classic concepts of making or remaking traditional menus with a certain “twist” to make them standout, while the unconventional serves more on the quirky side: these out-of-the box ideas are usually those that form into fads, but the pitfall there is its own unusualness as these madcap ideas seldom endure. However, that is not often the case, especially when your location complements your commodity; which leads us to...

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Where. No matter how intensive your marketing strategy is, if your location does not support your customer nor your product, business will be challenging. “Identify the needs of the market and find a location that could capture the intended target audience,” notes Chef Epie. Your location will provide you with an initial assessment of whether or not your business will thrive. Accessibility and a good traffic of people are typically two important factors to consider when scouting for that perfect spot. You also need to be mindful of competition. While a good rivalry can draw good results, it’s prudent to weigh in the other party, especially if there’s more of them. A good advice is to start somewhere where you can be the “first” to offer a new product and timely introduce your business with your audience’s seasonal necessity. When. Timing is everything. It’s a marketing cliché to brew a promotional propaganda that can attract attention: be it a self-made commotion or ruction to draw awareness, bottom line is to have people talk about your brand. You have to know when to do certain types of businesses at a certain time. Imagine selling lemonades during the cold season.

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Yes, you maybe the only one selling lemonades in the area but are cold drinks a good business when the weather is cold? Think about it. Sometimes, timing can compensate for a product. You just have to market it to the right people in the right place at the right time. Lastly, like any venture, you need to have a purpose as it is quite impetuous to set out in any undertaking with no apparent cause. Why. In Darren Hardy’s book Compound Effect, he talked about the value of starting things with optimistic patience. The significance of a compound effect can be the lifeline of any venture during rough times. He encouraged that every minute gain will eventually add up to an insurmountable turnaround. You just have to sit back and wait for the business to grow, and that you have to remind yourself, and often, of the reason as to why you are doing it. This will motivate you to work harder and keep that persistence going. “My passion for food has been induced by my personal experience. When I was young, I always felt giddy [whenever my mom] prepares a special meal every Sunday for the whole family,” recalls Chef

Epie. “[Because of that, I’ve developed a certain interest] in preparing food for other people and I always made sure that I convey to them the same stimulation of the appetite, satisfaction and positive feelings I felt [back then].” Passion is an effective inspiration. You need not be a professional chef or a connoisseur as long as you enjoy what you’re doing. Whatever endeavor, there needs to be a motive. Of course, there is that measure of personal grit. No matter how much you’ve planned, if you do not have the will to pursue, everything is moot. “Just like the fad in online selling, the young ones tend to sell everything in just one store with the help of modern technology to reach out to a wider market.” Jahziel shares that the new generation of entrepreneurs are more gutsy and inventive, proving that business gets more competitive by the generation. So when should you start? The best answer is now. Acknowledgement: Lava Resto Bar & Grill is located at Ushio Building II, #79 Timog Avenue, South Triangle, Quezon City.

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PORTFOLIO

GREENER PASTURES IN AGRIBUSINESS

—An in-depth look at the state of the Philippines’s agriculture business WRITER

Maria Nimfa Nadtja H. Villaver PHOTOGRAPHER Noel Ty 32 percent of the country’s total land area of 30 million hectares are agricultural land. Despite the government’s persistent plans to develop modern industries to lead the country further into the 21st Century, the agriculture sector is still the country’s largest single employer. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), more than 11 million Filipinos continue to rely on agriculture for their livelihood. In the past few years, agriculture has become an intriguing investment opportunity for both balikbayan retirees and ambitious entrepreneurs.

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LAND DISTRIBUTION The majority of the country’s land area is utilized for growing crops. Based on the report by the Food & Fertilizer Technology Center for the Asia-Pacific Region, the total area devoted to agricultural crops is 13 million hectares comprised of food grains, food crops, and non-food crops. Presently, rice, corn, and coconut are the three major agricultural crops of the Philippines with increasing demands for bananas and naturally, mangoes. For food grains, the average area utilized by corn was 3.34 million whereas rice occupied 3.31 million hectares. Of the total area under food crops, coconut accounted for the biggest average harvest area of 4.25 million hectares; followed by sugarcane with 673 thousand hectares; industrial crops with 591 thousand hectares; 148 thousand hectares for fruits; 270 thousand hectares for vegetables and root crops; 404 thousand hectares for pasture and 133 hectares for cut flower. Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries combined to contribute to 10.4% of total GDP. Several public and private efforts to ignite production and efficiency have led to drastic improvements to attain the major goal for self-sufficiency in rice and corn.

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RICE Asia accounts for 90% of the world’s rice production. Currently, the Philippines is ranked among the top 10 rice producers in the world. However, the country still produces less than half of its regional counterparts such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. To this day, the country still relies on imports to meet the demand for rice—resulting in an annual import bill reaching as high as $2.88 billion in 2008. As a result, in 2012, the Department of Agriculture (DoA), enacted the Food Self-Sufficiency Programme (FSSP). Investments are annually devoted to improving infrastructure such as irrigation, wells, small farm reservoirs, farm-to-market roads, scientific research, and generally improving farming systems. Three years later since the FSSP, early indications signify steady growth. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (Bureau of Agricultural Statistics), Philippine agriculture manifested a modest growth of 1.78 percent in the first quarter of 2015. The three subsectors–crops, livestock, and poultry recorded improved performances, however, the fisheries subsector posted yet another decline during the same period. At current prices, agriculture grossed P380.1 billion, lower by 1.65 percent than last year’s record. In 2013, according to the PSA, imports totaled $7.93 billion compared to $6.4 billion in exports. However, current trends over the past several years indicate a narrowing divide of imports and exports as growing demand in Philippine made products continues to outpace imports—largely due to the ASEAN Eco-

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nomic Integration. Further into 2015 and into the foreseeable future as ASEAN member countries move closer together, the Philippines agriculture industry will be even more lucrative. Fisheries, fruits, and vegetables will likely continue to be profitable as international demand still significantly outpaces the current supply of Philippine made products. CROPS The crops subsector expanded by 1.65 percent during the first quarter of 2015, with a share of 54.30 percent in the total agricultural production. Rice and corn production grew by 1.41 percent and 3.97 percent, respectively. Output gains were registered by banana, cassava, garlic, and onion. The total gross value of crop production amounted to P218.5 billion at current prices; markedly 3.26 percent lower compared to last year’s level. FRUITS AND VEGETABLES The most profitable sector of the Philippines Agriculture industry is fruit and vegetable farms. This sector continues to drive agricultural exports as well as meeting demands locally. In 1994, fruits and vegetable exports were a modest $571.74 million. Today, it is worth a combined total of $1.97 billion according to the PSA. The majority of the country’s fruits and vegetables are shipped to China, the Middle East, and even Russia. Yet, major consumption is still consumed domestically.

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LIVESTOCK AND POULTRY The livestock subsector accounts for 15.66 percent of the total agricultural output. In the first quarter of 2015, this subsector experienced 3.23 percent growth during the first quarter of 2015. With the exception of goat, all components of the subsector registered output increments. At current prices, the subsector grossed P59.2 billion, or 3.10 percent higher than the 2014 gross earnings. The poultry subsector came up with a 5.42 percent increase in output. It shared 14.98 percent in the total agricultural production. In the first quarter of the year, all components, chicken and duck meat and eggs, contributed to the subsector’s positive performance during the period. At current prices, the subsector grossed P47.5 billion, representing a 4.69 percent increment over last year’s record.

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SEAFOOD One of the country’s greatest natural gifts derives from the massively dispersed archipelagic landmass of 7,107 islands spread across the Pacific Ocean. Within these waters, an abundance of sea life provide for the country’s rapidly growing population of now more than 100 million. The fisheries subsector, which contributed 15.06 percent to the total agricultural production, posted a 2.57 percent decline in output. The major contributors that led to this negative growth were round shad and skipjack with production losses of 19.45 percent and 7.03 percent. However, production increases were recorded for tiger prawn at 1.85 percent and yellow fin tuna at 11.76 percent. The subsector’s gross output was valued at P54.9 billion or 5.04 percent lower than last year’s earnings. Despite the recorded growth of the different agricultural subsectors, Philippine agriculture needs to be re-energized, especially with the challenges and opportunities faced in the ASEAN Economic Community.

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Inclusive Agriculture Inclusive growth must include farmers into the equation—not dominated by the public and private sector. In his keynote speech delivered during the 2nd National Congress of the Philippine Association of Agriculturist, Dar said, “Inclusive Market-Oriented Development or IMOD highlights the power of market opportunities to offer more prosperous lives for smallholder farmers and their families. We need to give smallholder farmers assistance to gain access to innovations designed for the poor, to help them connect to markets, but in a way that builds their own resilience rather than creates dependency. The IMOD approach builds on three powerful principles: that markets motivate growth; that innovation accelerates growth; and that inclusiveness ensures that the poor benefit.” Collective approach is the key. It may be difficult to deal with farmers individually, but there must be a system in place to engage them through their respective associations and cooperatives. Through collective engagement, services provided by the government will be leveraged, as well as the credits market. Smallholder agriculture must be strengthened and must be part of the mainstream industry to be globally competitive.

4 Pillars of Agricultural Development in the Philippines “The potential of agriculture has yet to be tapped…” -William Dar, President of Inang Lupa Movement For an agricultural country like the Philippines, the growth has to be around 6 percent to be able to compete with the ASEAN. According to Dar, “You have to invest and make relevant policies to encourage more investors in agriculture. At the same time, because we have many smallholder farmers, we also have to enhance their capacities to use modern technology.”

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Science and Technology Based Agriculture At present, there are plenty of good technologies, however only a few of these are used effectively. In the same speech, Dar noted that with technology development and innovations, product quality and value yields, losses are prevented and environment is conserved; thus, resulting in improved productivity, profitability, competitiveness and sustainability. “ You can never grow agriculture without the massive use of technology now,” said Dar. According to Dar, the innovative use of ICT in knowledge and information sharing can develop adaptive measures and support mitigation measures that are critical to help smallholder farmers cope with the changing climates. This requires innovations designed for the poor, collective action, new and diverse partnerships, technologies adapted to smallholders,

microfinance, processing and marketing, market opportunities, and leveraging the power of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

Resilient Agriculture Developing climate-smart agriculture or resilient agriculture must be a priority in order to make smallholder agriculture increasingly productive, linked to commercial markets, sustainably implemented, and resilient to shocks, especially climate change. Achieving resilience for smallholder farmers will require investment in agricultural research-for-development (AR4D) so that farmers gain access to improved management practices and inputs, and to all possible options for a more profitable agriculture. The AR4D community must also become more effective in scaling-up innovations for wider impact.

Agribusiness-oriented Agriculture This is the most critical among the four pillars that must be put in place. The country must have a market-oriented agriculture because there are more revenue opportunities for agricultural products once they have value addition. “[We produce a lot of goods but mostly primary products that aren’t processed and value added]. If there’s a chance for smallholders to go value addition, why not? That’s a better way because they will be getting more income. If they go that level, the chances for them to export their products [will be a lot better],” said Dar.

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PORTFOLIO

Investment Tips For Future Agripreneurs Farming is a risky business. Aside from the typical factors to consider when starting a business, there are other uncontrollable factors to consider like the weather, type of soil and many more. For those planning to invest in agribusiness, here are some words of advice.

Study the location Just like starting any other business, location is critical to your success. In the world of agribusiness, this will make or break your business. Yes, the country is blessed with fertile soil; however, the geographical location makes the country’s climate volatile. For those who already have a property or planning to invest in one, consider which agribusiness will fit the site. Farming crops will be good for regions that are not often hit by typhoon. In areas near rivers, a fishery is an ideal business. If you plan on a poultry farm, study the local population figures and local food processing plants along with fast food chains.

Do market research Before fully deciding which agribusiness to invest in, you must conduct market research. Questions like ‘Will there be a market for the harvested crop?’ ‘Are there many competitors around the area?’ all must be answered before taking the leap. The market research will also be beneficial for value addition. If there’s already strong competition for primary products, if will be best to invest in value added agriculture instead. 36

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Acquire basic knowledge A basic knowledge in the chosen agribusiness sector will help you thrive. Say for instance, if you decided to invest in the banana industry, you must know the complete ins and outs of growing bananas—from planting to harvesting to selling.

Have the passion Some people are lucky to have a ‘green thumb,’ which some people believe encourages a large harvest. But the most important factor in any business is to have the passion for what you’re investing into. If you’re really into farming, it will be a lot easier to be an agripreneur. The continuous growth in the Philippine agriculture is a good sign that this industry has something to offer to smallholder farmers and interested investors; however, many actions are required to maximize the agriculture industry’s potential. Agriculture’s contribution to the Philippines is much more than simply profits—the greatest impact is in terms of creating jobs and feeding the local market.

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The

butcher shop B EEF

C U T S

D I AG R A M

ILLUSTRATOR, felize camille tolentino

01 chuck 02 blade 03 rib eye 04 short ribs 05 strip loin 40

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06 tenderloin 07 knuckle 08 rump 09 silver side 10 flank

11 hanger 12 skirt 13 brisket 14 fore shank 15 hind shank

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THE SCENE

POUR IT UP

—Find the right glass from the highly social, fancy, right down to the conservative, speakeasy bars in the Metro. WRITER EJ Villafranca PHOTOGRAPHER Noel Ty ILLUSTRATOR Felize Camille Tolentino

Blind Pig Central Bus Dist. 227 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City A genuine speakeasy adopted from a time when people keep their word and establishments value their guests almost like family, Blind Pig offers a personal experience. It is a place of escape. Served by some of the best bar tenders in Manila, being skillfully trained in their craft by consultants from the Milk and Honey Member’s Club of New York and London. Signature Drink: Smokey Old Bastard or Gold Rush Penthouse by Black Sheep Their selling point is a unique Single Malt Whisky Dinner Pairing experience— the first of its kind in Manila. You will be served by Chef Jordy Navarra, a protégé of the Fat Duck all in a dramatic penthouse overlooking the city. Signature Drink: Filipino Summer - vodka steeped in chili and mint for over 48 hours served with lime wedges and white sugar

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71 Gramercy 71st Floor, Century City, Kalayaan Ave, Makati City This club and restaurant are both influenced by the building’s New York origins, Gramercy being the name of a neighborhood and hotel in New York. The interiors are sleek and modern with touches of minimalist art and a bit of a Jazz Age feel. Signature Drink: Traditional Cocktails and International Beers Wine Bar 2/F 1771 El Pueblo, El Pueblo Real de Manila, ADB Avenue corner Julia Vargas Avenue, Pasig City Wine Bar is a gem for those who find comfort in intimate wine and dine sophistication. Cave Werdenberg 7431 Yakal Street San Antonio Village, Makati City A very intimate wine bar that transports you to Europe with its interior and ambiance. It has a creative interior that adds to your drinking experience. Signature Drink: Large variety of wine selection Detalle Bar + Kitchen 88 Meralco Ave. Corner Julia Vargas, Ortigas, Pasig, Metro Manila Detalle Bar by the Lim sisters is perfect for the weary Ortigas traveler who is looking for a place to relax and unwind. Their menu is very simple and verge more on comfort than high-end sophistication. Signature Drink: Meralco Blackout

Straight Up Seda BGC Hotel, 30th Street corner 11th Avenue, BGC Straight Up is one of the urban and modern roof deck bars in BGC. While the other roof deck bars have a creative atmosphere, Straight Up offers a more intimate experience. With sittings strategically positioned for groups, you can just grab a beer or two while enjoying the spectacular view of the Bonifacio Global City skyline with friends. Signature Drink: Traditional Cocktails and International Beers

Cucumber Basi “It was a drink that was created when we were testing out local spirits trying [to] introduce more local [flavor] to the forefront.” —Raphael Cruz, Managing Partner at Blacksheep Dining

Stella + Rocket Room by Raintree Restaurants G/F Bonifacio High Street Central East Superblock, 7th Ave cor 29th St., Bonifacio Global City Rocket Room bar and Stella’s combination make you experience the vibe of the innovative modern cuisine tapas-style that goes well with your favorite cocktail mixes, fine wines or beers. Signature Drink: A Girl With Violet Eyes (Mojito with mixed berries, apple rum, honey, lychee and lots of mint)

The Curator 134 Legaspi Street corner C. Palanca Street, Makati City. The Curator is a coffee shop by day and bar by night, it is a place that offers excellent drinks and a quiet atmosphere. Ordering is an experience as resident mixologist will guide you through the process, telling you about the history of each ingredient or drink. Signature Drink: Speakeasy Standard, a refreshing drink made of lychee, fresh mint and gin

Ninyo Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge 66 Esteban Abada Street, Loyola Heights, Quezon City If you are the romantic type, this is the place for you. Definitely the perfect spot for couples to wine and dine as if being away from major thoroughfares means a quieter and more relaxed dining experience. Signature Drink: Traditional Cocktails and a good wine selection

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SPECI AL ADV E RTIS ING FE ATU R E

Searching for the perfect spot that has excellent food and serves real drinks? Located in one of the hottest places in all of Metro-Manila, The Brewery At The Palace in Bonifacio Global City, will take drinking and dining to another level with their fresh beers and unique dining experience. Owned and operated by the renowned group that brought you Draft and Black Olive, The Distillery Group’s newest hotspot, The Brewery, is actually that: a microbrewery. The name will speak for itself. The Brewery creates its own collections of beer all the way from the yeast, wheat, water and hops—all created fresh—and a fresh, ice cold beer on a warm day or toasty evening is simply the best. At present, The Brewery serves four

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SPE C I A L A DVE RT I SI N G F E ATURE

different kinds of beer: Brown Ale, Pilsner, Wheat beer, and Indian Pale Ale (IPA). The tastes vary from light to refreshing (Pilsner and Wheat) to rich and complex (IPA and Brown Ale). Flavored beers are underway and will be available very soon. The Breweryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beers have a distinct taste due to the intricate brewing process. Every brew is guaranteed the best with its fresh ingredients. Aside from the purest beers in town, The Brewery is also serving delicious food for lunch and dinner. Behind the menu is Chef Carlo Miguel who has more than 18 years of professional experience. From appetizers to main courses and even desserts, this newly opened restaurant provides a superb gastronomic experience.

PERFECT COMBINATION: BEER, FOOD, AND MUSIC To add to the wonderful artistry of drinking fresh beers and eating the finest meals, The Brewery also offers entertainment on scheduled nights featuring the best bands in the Philippines. Among the artists who have performed on stage were Basti Artadi and the Nice Ones, Nicole Asensio and band, Kjwan, Up Dharma Down, Urbandub, and many more. The Brewery At The Palace is located at 10th Avenue corner 38th Street, Uptown Fort, Global City, Taguig. For inquiries, call +63 917 813 9429. For more information, follow them on Instagram @TheBreweryPh and Facebook.com/The BreweryAtThePalace.

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The Local flavors of Wine According to the 2011 World Health Organization report, Filipinos ranked as the top wine drinker in the whole Asian Region. The Filipinos’ love for drinking wine can also be traced from the country’s rich culture and tradition. The Philippines has a unique tradition of brewing, fermenting and drinking wines that are produced in the different parts of the country. Every region has its unique and exotic line of local wines and spirits that greatly vary in flavor. WRITER , M a r i a N i mf a N a d tj a H . V i l l a v e r / I l l u s t r a t OR , A l l a n a C a t h e r i n e J . S a n t o s

Pineapple wine

basi

mango wine

01 Laksoy or “PALM LIQUOR” is distilled from the sap of a nipa palm. It is widely made and available in Caraga, Mindanao, where nipa palms abundantly grow along riverbanks. The palms are selected based on the maturity of their bough and fruit. The process involved in making laksoy is tedious and time-consuming. The process starts with applying mud to the bough and fruit of the nipa palm once every three days for a succession of six weeks. The mud will be scraped off later before cutting the bough. After cutting the bough, a salhod (bamboo container) is attached to whet the sap. The sap is thoroughly drained by slicing two to three millimeters off the cut-bough in the next five days. Fermentation will require the sap to be stored in a banga, an earthen-made jar, for two days. longer fermentation will turn the sap into vinegar.

produced and consumed long before the invasion of the Spaniards. However, declaration of Wine Monopoly by the Spanish government during the Spanish era literally disturbed and deprived the native producers. Basi is made by fermenting boiled, freshly extracted, sugar cane juice. The juice is then boiled in barrels and stored in earthen clay jars called burnay. Flavorings made of ground glutinous rice and duhat (java plum) bark or other fruits barks are added after the juice has cooled. A dried powdered starter is used to start the fermentation. The mixture is left for up to three months to ferment and up to one year to age. The final product is a light brown color and has a sweet and a sour flavor.

This local wine is essentially processed tuba and well known for its strength that ordinarily carries 80 to 90 proof alternatives. The procedure includes collecting the sap from the coconut flower, comparable to rubber tree tapping. The sap is then prepared and fermented to turn into tuba, then distilled to make lambanog.

02 Basi or “SUGAR CANE WINE” made in Ilocos Norte, chiefly in Naguilian where a Basi Festival is annually held. The product has been 48

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03 Lambanog or “COCONUT WINE / VODKA” is the most popular alcoholic drink in the Southern Tagalog. It is mostly produced in the Quezon Province, and selected provinces of Laguna and Batangas. It has certainly been passed down throughout generations of coconut plantation farmers.

04 TUBA or “COCONUT TODDY” is claimed to be the oldest recorded alcoholic drink in the Philippines. When the famous explorer Ferdinand Magellan and his men arrived in the country in March 17, 1521, it was believed that the natives offered them tuba as a welcome drink. Locally known as ‘jungle wine’, tuba is a sweet, fresh or mildly fermented sap taken from tapping the young expanded flowers of coconut. It is made through a process of extracting the sap of an unopened coconut bud. The tip of the bud is lopped and the pale juice are filtered into bamboo containers. From this juice comes a syrup concentrate for tuba.

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cashew wine

laksoy

tuba

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tapuy

coffee wine

05 Pineapple Wine The pineapple wine is made from Formosa pineapple, the sweetest pineapple variety in the country, abundantly produced and exported by Camarines Norte. The pineapple wine, which has 10.2 % alcohol content, complements the red berry wine (6.3% proof ) according to the analysis of Bicol’s Department of Science and Technology.

technology for wine contains 10-12 percent of ethyl alcohol.”

06 Cashew Wine Palawan is considered the cashew capital of the country supplying 90 percent of the nut requirement. The abundance of cashew in the province of Palawan paved the way to processing and fermenting such into a unique cashew wine. According to the Department of Agriculture’s BAR Digest Magazine, “the technology involved the natural extraction of the juice from the cashew apple through osmotic process wherein the natural fibers and membranes of the pulp filter the undesirable organic components that are responsible for the astringent and acrid taste of the juice. The extracted juice is now the material used to produce wine. The wine is sparkling yellowishbrown when fermented from the juice extract of the cashew apple and becomes reddish-brown upon aging for more than a year. The developed

07 Tapuy or RICE WINE is a ceremonial wine served during special occasions which originated from the mountainous Cordillera region of the country. Its name is derived from tapai (ta-pie) or tape (ta-peh) which refers to the traditional fermented food found in most Southeast Asian countries. The rice wine is somehow sweet but leaves a bold taste due to its 14% alcohol content. It is a naturally fermented alcoholic drink made from pure glutinous rice or a combination (glutinous and non-glutinous) with onuad roots, ginger extract and powdered bubod. It is not diluted with water and has no sugar added. Traditional tapuy rice wine becomes sour after 2 to 5 days depending on the preparation method. Since it doesn’t have a long shelf life, the wine is not sold commercially. 08 Coffee wine The province of Cavite is now known as the coffee capital of the Philippines with nine (9) coffee-producing towns. Excelsa coffee varieties are the most commonly grown in these towns. The first brewed coffee wine in the world is extracted from the finest coffee beans in the province with the combined Continued to page 53

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lambanog

agricultural wealth and historical tradition of wine making 09 Strawberry Wine Benguet is known for strawberries â&#x20AC;&#x201D; be it strawberry jam or strawberry ice cream. Now the Strawberry Capital of the Philippines, La Trinidad has added another creation in their One Town One Project (OTOP). The locally produced strawberry wine is certainly made from fresh fruits. 10 Calamansi Wine Calamansi is considered as one of the major fruit crops in the Philippines which is indigenous to the country. The juice extracted from its pulp can be processed into wine. Fermentation usually takes three to four weeks. The calamansi wine has a unique taste with its citrus flavor. 11 Mango Wine Mango is one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier fruit crops. Mango wine has clear, golden yellow color aged in glass vat for at least 6 months. The process of making mango wine includes four steps: juice preparation, starter preparation, fermentation, and aging & clarification. The wine has a unique fruity aroma and smooth flavor that provide consumers with a delightful experience.

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THE ULTIMATE

PASALUBONG G U I D E

Traveling to the Philippines for the 1st time? Balikbayan travel experts share their favorite takehomes from the sinful silvanas at Eriel’s Bakery in Nueva Ecija, to the pungent yet addicting durian in Davao City.

Region II - CAGAYAN VALLEY [ Cagayan Longganisa] Cagayan

Region I - ILOCOS REGION [ Marsha’s Bibingka ] Ilocos Sur

Region III - CENTRAL LUZON [ Eriel’s Bakery Silvana ] Nueva Ecija

Region IV B - SOUTHERN TAGALOG Region IV A - SOUTHERN TAGALOG [ Rodilla’s Yema Cake ] Quezon

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[ Uraro or “arrowroot” cookies ] Marinduque

CAR - Cordillera Administrative Region [ Good Shepherd ] Baguio

Region V - BICOL REGION [ Pili products ] Legazpi CIty

Region VIII - EASTERN VISAYAS [ Binakol ] Leyte

Region VI - WESTERN VISAYAS [ Butterscotch ] Iloilo

Region VII - CENTRAL VISAYAS [ Peanut Kisses ] Bohol

Region X - NORTHERN MINDANAO [ Lanzones ] Camiguin

Region IX - ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA [ Pearls ] Zamboanga

CARAGA [ Palm Oil Products ] Agusan del Sur

Region XI - DAVAO REGION [ Durian ] Davao

Region XII - SOCCSKSARGEN [ T’nalak fabric ] South Cotabato

ARMM - Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao [ Malong ] Lanao del Sur

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EXPLORER

96 Hours â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Pagudpud Exploring the natural beauty of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte to see firsthand why this place has become one of the top destinations throughout the Philippines. WRITER Haidee Martin-Provido Photographer Noel Ty

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Nestled in the hidden treasure of the northern Ilocos Region of the Philippines is the town that sways over mountain peaks, hills, valleys and parallel coastal terrain. The settlement is bounded to the southern town of Bangui and to the eastern division by the Cordillera Mountain Range. Tourism is a rising part of its economy along with other means of livelihood of the industrious Ilokanos like organic farming, fishing and trading. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot more to this alluring paradise aside from its famed, fine sand beaches and sparkling-blue lagoon. Come explore nature and soak in the soothing ambiance of the sea breeze, vibrant discovery of ethnic history, the calm blue tempts of the sea and the breathtaking and intense 101 adventures...Pagudpud-style.

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BALIKBAYAN ON LOCATION / BANGUI WINDMILLS, ILOCOS NORTE

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Traveler’s Itinerary —Where To Go In Pagudpud 01

Maira-Ira Point

Situated at the northernmost tilt of mainland Luzon is Maira-Ira Cove. The idyllic tranquility of this amazing asylum makes it a good start to your Pagudpud exploration. Perhaps its naturally untouched richness and inviting bright azure make it better known as The Blue Lagoon—truly nature’s lavishness in blue.

02 Bangui Windmills

Take a day trip to the most prevalent electric resources of the town of Bangui. The 70-meter windmills freely swelling out of the beachfront offer the foremost astonishing view. Although the function is to supply electricity for the entire province, these large turbine facilities in Southeast Asia are one of the most favorite spots for selfie aficionados. Every tourist’s magnetism for Bangui Windmills’ splendor and purpose have not stopped spinning since its formation.

03 Kapurpurawan

Immaculately formed on the rocky coastline of Burgos, Ilocos Norte is a magnificent white rock formation. The Kapurpurawan’s limestone masterpiece was naturally sculptured by various marine and weather powerful corrosions. 60

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04 Patapat Viaduct

Mounting along coastal lush greeneries that proffers a wanderlust view is 1.3 kilometres of concrete coastal railway that unites the Maharlika Highway from Laoag to the Cagayan Valley Region. This crossing above the sea is the fourth longest bridge in the Philippines. It is the first point of the Cordillera Mountain Range that passes through Northern Luzon.

05 Timangtang Rock & Bantay Abot Cave

Located along the oasis seaboard of Sitio Gaoa, Balao is Timangtang Rock. According to the townfolks, it is a fraction of Bantay Abot Cave. They are deemed to be lovers. The Timangtang Rock is the “male lover” of the “female” Bantay Abot Cave. Hiking from the seashore of the “Lovers Rock” is mustsee during low tide.

06 Aqua Grande

This eco-friendly park is the best secret hideaway. Swimming pools and picnic huts were built for family getaways. But the best part of it all is the natural beauty of the natural, crystal clear water that freely runs from the mountain streams down to the South China Sea: a refreshing spectacle while resting under the vast views of green mountain tops and hills.

07 Kaibigan Falls

Embraced by the flourishing woodland and bowl-shaped basin in Barangay Baloi, Kaibigan Falls is a welcoming destination especially for the hikers. Before reaching the 120-feet magnificence of the famous falls, you will pass through brooks, rice fields, a wooden bridge, and a trail that leads right into the top of the falls. The 1.8 kilometer nature trek will encourage you to experience a cool dipping.

08 Paraiso ni Anton

According to our tour guide, several tourists stop at the falls to fill their water containers. It is believed that the water of the mountain stream ignite “miraculous healing”. Motorists were also informed to honk three times as a sign of respect and to avoid the white lady hearsay.

09 Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

This 19th century octagonal formation is made of parched bricks. Standing still and proud, it functions well too. The undersized museum also echoes the gems from the past. BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

HANNAH’S beach resort —Pagudpud’s Vacation Paradise

Overlooking the crystal clear-blue sea and surrounded by magnificent natural masterpieces is a worldclass haven, Hannah’s Beach Resort and Convention Center. As I enter the seven-hectare piece of paradise, I felt nature’s embrace. Flagged down as the “crown jewel of Ilocos Norte,” the resort offers breathtaking views to serve as the perfect destination to celebrate weddings, honeymoons, and reunions.

thrill seekers There is the 1.2 kilometer zipline over azure water, bordered by lining mountain sides. It will certainly provide quite the adrenaline rush. beach lovers From surfing, jet skiing, snorkeling, kayaking, banana boat rides, or even speed boats, this place simply has it all. 62

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nature fanatics All-terrain vehicles for mountain trekking, fishing, mountain biking, and horseback riding are available.

FITNESS There’s a full basketball court, pool table and darts, beach volleyballs and shooting range.

kids The resort is full of interactive playgrounds and life-sized replicas of all-time favorite movie and cartoon characters.

FOODIES Must try local dishes are Pinakbet, Dinakdakan, and Igado. Hannah’s restaurant boasts of five chefs whipping up international cuisines as well.

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ENCHANTED KINGDOM “The Magic Lives Forever...”

Enchanted Kingdom takes pride in being the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines that opened to the public on October 19, 1995 in Santa Rosa, Laguna. The iconic theme park boasts of superb rides and attractions unique to the country with its enormous size and magnitude. These rides and attractions are located within seven majestic themed zones. Enchanted Kingdom unleashes the enchanting and magical experience to its valued guests through an astounding magical journey across different places and era. The seven (7) themed zones make a perfect venue not only for simple park visits but also for celebrating personal milestones such as birthdays, weddings, debuts and family gatherings. Enchanted Kingdom is committed in delivering fun, exciting and adventurous offerings that caters all ages, providing wholesome family leisure and entertainment. Now approaching to its 20 years, come and join the biggest and most spectacular celebration of Enchanted Kingdom this October 2015! Watch out for exciting surprises & big events that will truly captivate your heart to the promise of magical experience only at Enchanted Kingdom, where the MAGIC LIVES FOREVER...”

05 JUNGLE OUTPOST Design to administer the famous Amazon Jungle setting. It is enriched with the woods and trees that set the tropical ambience in the park. Key Attraction: Jungle Log Jam 64

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01 VICTORIA PARK EK welcomes you to the age of Victorian elegance with its classical structures supplemented with the era’s stylish fashion statements. Key Attraction: Grand Carousel

03 BROOKLYN PLACE Reminisce the bygone years of Brooklyn, one of New York’s five boroughs. Walk down the cobblestone street and feel as if you are in the movie settings in 1940’s. Key Attraction: Rialto Theater

06 BOULDERVILLE Pre-historic cartoon zone that offers a mix of kiddie rides & play structure. It is designed to capture every child’s imagination. Key Attraction: Petreefied House

02 PORTABELLO Remark the impressive replica of Panama in the Caribbean Sea. The sights & sounds of a pristine and chromatic Latin atmosphere are showcased in this zone. Key Attraction: Rio Grande Rapids

04 SPACEPORT Relive the sci-fi & American space exploration of the 1960s. Experience the first & most thrilling triple loop rollercoaster in the country. Key Attraction: Space Shuttle

07 MIDWAY BOARDWALK Reviving Coney Island, known as America’s Playground in 1930s, presents a vibrant and carefree zone featuring most number of rides. Key Attraction: Wheel of Fate

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CULTURE

HOME COMING —More fun in the Philippines. WRITER

Maria Nimfa Nadtja H. Villaver PHOTOGRAPHER Noel Ty

The 10th annual Ambassadors, Consul Generals, and Tourism Directors Tour (ACGTDT) to the Philippines has grown to become much more than a trip home to the motherland. There’s no place like home, but with ACGTDT, it’s all about rediscovering your roots. This year, over 200 participants from all over the United States such as California, New York, Chicago, Florida, and Hawaii flew into the country for an action packed tour of the motherland. This year’s schedule of activities was filled with great adventures which were specifically designed for balikbayans and their non-Filipino friends and families. Upon arrival, the participants were warmly welcomed and greeted by the Department of Tourism right at customs and immigration. Then, guests were transferred to one of the country’s most beautiful and iconic landmarks, the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila. The next day, the homecoming tour kicked off with an exclusive luncheon at the Heroes Hall of Malacañang Palace. After lunch, delegates were given a 66

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private tour inside the Malacañang Museum. From this tour, first time delegates of ACGTDT gained insight into how the country’s long history of leadership shaped the Philippines and its people into what it is today. After a long day of touring, next on the schedule was the gala dinner hosted by the Tourism Promotions Board of the Philippines at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza. The night was filled with fine dining and entertainment. MALACAÑANG PALACE The 150-year old, 18th century complex is an icon of power. This was the palace that was home to numerous leaders such as eighteen Spanish Governor-Generals, fourteen American Governors, to all of the Presidents of the Philippines after independence (with the exception of Emilio Aguinaldo). MALACAÑANG MUSEUM Built in 1920, the Malacañang Museum, features exhibits and galleries showcasing the legacies of the country’s

Presidents. The museum’s collections are chronologically arranged, from the Spanish era (1750s-1898), to the first Philippine Republic (1860s-1901), American era (18981935), Commonwealth of the Philippines (1935-1946), Republic of the Philippines (1946- the president, EDSA People Power Revolution (February 1986). ACGDTD’s first adventure outside Metro Manila For the 10th year of the ACGTDT, the organizers decided to travel outside of Metro-Manila. Together with their families and friends, the delegates all traveled to the Queen City of the South—Cebu. Some participants have never even been to Cebu whereas others it has been more than 15, even 20 years. In an interview with Balikbayan Magazine, Jose L. Cuisia, Jr., Philippine Ambassador to the United States said, “When we were thinking of ACGTDT 2015, we all agreed that Cebu was the right place to come and I’m confident that my colleagues and our participants

in this tour will agree that we did not make a mistake in choosing Cebu.” CEBU CITY TOUR The contingent rediscovered the oldest city in the country. The first stop was Magellan’s Cross, the place where Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted the wooden cross in 1521. This is the very spot where the first Filipinos were baptized. Next was the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino, the oldest Spanish religious relic in the Philippines and Cebu’s patron saint. Cebu is now predominantly known as an export-oriented province. The province is home to the world’s highest quality mangoes. Delegates were able to have a peek at Profoods International Corporation where they got to see firsthand where dried mangoes and other fruits are processed. After the demonstration, they were all able to purchase Cebu’s famous delicacies at discounted, factory prices. One of the hottest attractions in all of Cebu is the Dancing Inmates of the Cebu BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC), which has gained worldwide popularity. The detainees perform dances as part of their daily exercise and rehabilitation. The delegates were entertained with their most famous rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller Video,” which went viral on the Internet 8 years ago and now has over 55 million Youtube views to date. SUROY-SUROY SA SUGBO The second day in Cebu was even more compressed with a tour of three towns that embody the rich, diverse culture and heritage of this pristine, exotic island. First Stop: CARCAR Kabkaban Festival is a ritual dance that is believed to ward off evil spirits and omens. The term derives from a kind of grass that is abundant in this land. Through the inspiration of Val San Diego, the Kabkaban celebration receives great attention from the Carcaranons and domestic travelers. This annual activity is one of the highlights of Carcar’s fiesta in honor of its patroness, St. Catherine of Alexandria. Carcar is largely known for its locally made shoes. Bolo making and basket weaving are also some of the prevalent cottage industries among the Carcaranons. Aside from these, Carcaranons manufacture wood based furniture as well as antique reproduction. Second Stop: ARGAO The Church of Argao holds one of the original 14 Spanish pipe organs in the Philippines. Only one of three organs in the whole province remains

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today. These beautiful instruments were built in the 17th and 19th century by Spanish instrument makers. Argao became a parish in 1703, prompting the construction of a beautiful rococobaroque church structure in 1734 and with its completion in 1788. A newly renovated and modernized church, San Miguel Archangel Parish still remains as one of the remarkably furnished churches in the entire southern region today. Last Stop: SIBONGA Pastores de Sibonga is a short Christmas play which narrates the story of Christ’s nativity as performed in Brgy. Magcagong, Sibonga., Cebu, Philippines. The play depicts the shepherd’s adoration of the child Jesus. The Mother Mary Shrine in SIMALA draws thousands of devotees and first time pilgrims every year bringing their faith and petitions for divine aid and cure. You can write your petitions on a sheet of paper and drop it near the encased Marian image. The Marian monks who maintain the shrine have beautifully landscaped the area with small waterfalls that cascades down a pool that is surrounded by well-maintained gardens. LASTING IMPRESSIONS “There are delegates who are willing to organize similar travels for their Church group and work group. And that’s the next trajectory for future ambassadors tours. Participants organize their own trips to the Philippines by replicating what they’ve experienced,” said Leo Herrera-Lim, Consul General of the Philippine Consulate in Los Angeles.

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A TASTE OF CEBU WRITER , M a r i a N i mf a N a d tj a H . V i l l a v e r / p h o t o g r a p h e r , NOEL TY

01 Torta de Argao

The rice cake familiarly known as “torta” is the most popular delicacy in the town of Argao. Torta de Argao is made of four traditional ingredients: pork lard, egg yolk, and fresh tuba utilized as yeast and is cooked in a clay oven.

04 Banana Chips

This famous Filipino snack can’t be missed for pasalubong treats. Quality banana chips are also one of the products Cebu is proud to offer.

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02 Lechon Cebu

Cebu takes pride for having one of the country’s tastiest lechons. This mouthwatering, roasted pig’s juicy meat and very crispy skin is one of the dishes guests shouldn’t miss. That’s why many people around the globe say Cebu is the lechon capital of the world.

05 Ampao

The sweet puffed rice cake, ampao, is one of the famous delicacies in the town of Carcar. This white, sweet and crunchy delicacy began in Carcar in the early 1900s and became popular in the whole of Cebu by the 1940s.

03 Chicharon

The town of Carcar is also known for their pork cracklings. Mycebu. ph describes their chicharon in two variants: the “kubal” or purely pork skin and the chicharon which still has traces of meat.

06 Bocarillo

The sweetened coconut strips is another famous delicacy Carcar. Bocarillo is made from coconut strips sweetened with milk and mixed with eggs and sugar. It comes in different colorful shades and molded like a flower.

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Planning to go to the beach capital of the Philippines? The recognized pioneer tourist transport service in the province of Aklan, Southwest Tours (Boracay) Inc. (STBI) makes it more accessible to the tropical paradise of Boracay. The Aklanbased corporation started its operations way back in 1991; and eventually became a corporation in 1993. With more than 20 years in transport operations, STBI has rendered services to both local and foreign tourists and continues to provide safe and hassle-free travel experience. Among its devoted clienteles are top government officials, beauty pageant participants, medical mission teams, corporate event attendees and local & international tourists. STBI assures all its clients with quality and friendly services. At present, STBI serves 90% of hotels and resorts in Boracay Island as well as approximately 200 travel agencies all over the Philippines. It

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has partnered with different airlines to ensure a seamless transport service. SERVICES STBI has various packages to suit the diverse needs of its clients varying from land & sea transport to resort reservation. BORACAY ISLAND SERVICES 01 Airport Transfer 02 Land and Sea Transfer 03 Hotel Reservation 04 Island Activities 05 Tour Packages 06 Cruise Ship Ground Handler 07 24/7 Customer Service Assistance 08 24/7 Metered Taxi It provides full transfer assistance to passengers from their first step out of Kalibo International Airport and/ or Caticlan Airport to their respective

MAKATI OFFICE Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm Saturday , 9am to 2pm Sunday, 9am to 6pm Find them at 9641 Lot21 Blk29 3C Kamagong Bldg Kamagong st Cor Chino Roces Ave Makati City 1203 TEL: (02) 890-1661 to 63 869-8270 /625-0098 FAX: (02) 890-1661 to 63 loc. 106 869-8265 / 552-7643 MOBILE: +63999-9906070 +63999-9975770 +63917-7238035 +63917-7238033 EMAIL: reservations@southwesttoursboracay.com

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destinations in any point of Panay and the island of Boracay. STBI has exclusive buses, coasters, vans, motorized boats, multicabs and tricycles to take guests to their destinations. Coordinators and well trained staff are always ready to assist guests and facilitate all transportation requirements to any point in the island. Special transfer requests can be accommodated through STBI’s charter services.

ILOILO OFFICE GF RM 2 Tomas Ching Chua Bldg. Brgy., San Rafael, Mandurriao, Iloilo City, Iloilo, Philippines 5000 TEL: (033) 321-1113 FAX: 321-1112 MOBILE: 0998-9794776 / 0917-8880533 EMAIL: southwesttours.iloilo@gmail.com twitter: @southwest_tours www.facebook.com/southwesttours www.southwesttoursboracay.com/

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MUTYA NG PILIPINAS

—A celebration of culture, nationalism, and Filipino’s pride. WRITER

Haidee Martin-Provido PHOTOGRAPHER Noel Ty Beauty tourism and adventure. Fashion trends and ingenuity. Social advocacy and responsibility. Socio-civic related support. Fusion of distinctive culture and heritage. And Filipina empowerment. No other national event can magnify all of these global visions into the spectacle that is the world renowned Mutya ng Pilipinas pageant. In its 47th year, it once again spelled its aesthetic magic in various tourist spots in the Philippines for the world to see what our amazing country has to offer.

BALIKBAYAN ON LOCATION / MAIRA-IRA POINT, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

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Northern California, USA Kerlyn Horn

Los Banos, Laguna, Philippines Leren Mae Bautista

Arizona, USA Jessie May Delprete

Norway Cristine Marielle Stubergh

Mabalacat City, Philippines Bianca De Leon

Nueva Ecija, Philippines Brenna Cassandra Gamboa

Mutya ng Pilipinas, Inc. (MPI) is the only National pageant organization that for decades has placed a clear emphasis on the ‘direct’ participation of the Overseas Filipino Communities. Thus, giving them importance & making them partners in promoting Philippine tourism. It encourages our ‘kababayans’ to visit their homeland and to rediscover their roots and appreciate the remarkable ‘wonders’ of the Philippines. The National Pageant Event serves as a vehicle to promote everything that is beautiful in the Filipina, the culture and the country as a whole. Its mission is to expand tourism and to widen the awareness about the best of the Philippines with a nationalistic approach. MPI has further emphasized this initiative by distinguishing the major title winner among the delegates from the Filipino communities. It has started in the 1970’s and further enhanced this tradition in 2001 to the present where more participation and cooperation was pursued. For the first time, there will be a delegate participating from Doha, Qatar. Delegates come from all over the world from overseas Filipino communities in Asia, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, Scandinavia, and the United States such as Arizona and California. These overseas candidates 78

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vie for one of the most coveted and distinguished beauty titles: Mutya ng Pilipinas-Overseas Communities.

BEAUTY TOURISM AND ADVENTURE Stunning bets from Overseas contingents are excited to see the Philippines for the first time. One of them is Kerlyn Horn, 20, representing the overseas communities of Northern California. “I’m very excited to go back home and visit Palawan, Boracay and Cebu! I admire my Filipino culture. My mom taught me to be a strong and independent woman,” the friendly and outgoing fashion model said. Each year, the beauty queens embark on a memorable island adventure at the majestic paradise of Puerto Princesa City in Palawan. Mutya may be the only national pageant organization that has a continuous presence in a premier resort facility in Southwest Philippines. The worldrenowned, exclusive, and picturesque Sheridan Beach Resort & Spa (SBRS) has been declared the official resort home of MPI. The world class resort is located in the Midwest coast of Palawan, 80 kilometers of northwest Puerto Princesa City. The serene coastline of Sabang in Puerto Princesa City is the perfect backdrop of the most anticipated

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Central Luzon Jessica Rose McEwen

Bataan, philippines Patriz Anne Dabu

Southern California, usa Aislinn Anne Sebastian

MANILA, PHILIPPINES Jillean Camille Orbina

TARLAC, PHILIPPINES Kristiarine Briones

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA Shannon Rebecca BridgmaN

pre-pageant spectacle, the Swimsuit competition. The Pageant serves as a platform to contribute its share in highlighting the latest “New 7th Wonder of the World,’’ the Underground River and Subterranean National Park. Featuring a mountain landscape with an 8.2 kilometer navigable underground river, this exotic mysterious place is known as the longest and most beautiful subterranean river in the world. Each year, a new batch of delegates witness the immense feeling and wonders of the attractive features of the “city in a forest” including the Jungle Trail, mangrove and tropical jungle, the wildlife sanctuary and the pristine white sand beaches. For the first time, a clash of talents from outstanding candidates will also be held on the number one island in the world. Sheridan Beach Resort also owns two other associated resorts in Iloilo and Boracay which can be utilized at anytime to bring class into its adventure filled special events. “Mutya ng Pilipinas organization is a good stepping stone for every Filipina who wants to promote everything that is beautiful in the Philippines; from our amazing tourist destinations, Filipino culture, innovative fashion style, food and most especially the people” shared 80

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by Leren Mae Bautista, Mutya ng Laguna. Consequently, the City of Sta. Rosa, Laguna, known as the “Investment Capital of South Luzon” is one of the pageant’s major partners.

FASHION TRENDS AND INGENUITY Regional fashion style and clothing sense of young and upcoming Filipino designers are on full display during the Regional Costume and Long Gown competitions. The modern-day creative fashion geniuses conform their execution of dressing up the live mannequin into a stunning beauty queen. “I’m all set to face the challenge,” Janela Joy Cuaton, Mutya ng Doha, Qatar said. The 18year old ramp model is the first ever overseas delegate from a Peninsular Arab country. “Beauty is about being comfortable, a promise of happiness and all about giving,” quipped by the “Mutya ng Pilipinas 2015 - Darling of the Press” winner. Splashes of creativity, innovative costumes and unique talents will fill the night as each designer presents the grandiose cultural allure. Each candidate’s gown will represent her region. Aside from showcasing these talents, ingenuity of local materials from various regions are introduced such as abaca, jusi, piña and silk from

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DOHA, QATAR Janela Joy Cuaton

UNITED KINGDOM Kiaragiel Gregorio

CAMARINES SUR, PHILIPPINES Ross Andrea Ambrosio

AUSTRALIA Nina Josie Robertson

ANTIPOLO CITY, PHILIPPINES Martina Fausta Diaz

CAGAYAN DE ORO Julee Ann Marie Bourgoin

Mindanao region. Accordingly, the Filipina signature style of clothing during the gown competition echoes the indigenous Filipino qualities with stylish and trending influences. Through the creative modernism of Filipino fashion designers everything comes to life. Each year, MPI places the spotlight on a particular region to showcase it’s wonders and charm. This year, the astonishing landmark of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte will be the backdrop of the highly anticipated Long Gown Competition. The newest and most exciting vacation spot in Northern Luzon, Hannah’s Beach Resort & Convention Center will stage this trendy, fashion event. The candidates will discover the magical surroundings that it offers like the crystal clear blue waters, white sand beaches, and watersports adventure— all Pagudpud style.

SOCIAL ADVOCACY AND RESPONSIBILITY Beyond beauty and tourism, Mutya candidates signify social responsibility. It brings out the social responsibility into highly profound civic projects and worthy programs for underprivileged children. “I want to get closer to my mother’s home country to broaden my bond with the people and assimilate myself with

their culture. I also want to have more opportunities to work with children,” affirmed by Mutya ng Norway, Christine Marielle Stubergh. Born and raised from the “land down under”, Mutya ng Melbourne, Shannon Rebecca Bridgman, is the epitome of beauty for a cause, “I already saved three lives by donating blood.” She dreams of pursuing a career in criminology and volunteer in humanitarian work as well. She would like to raise awareness about human trafficking, humanitarian causes and to be an inspiration to many people. “We should be thankful for our hardships as it makes us stronger. We should be grateful for the freedom that we have now,” she stated. MPI ardently supports charitable programs that further exude the spirit of today’s women. These young, spirited ladies become instruments to worthwhile causes. They lend a hand in promoting awareness for different relevant advocacies. This important social contribution of the pageant also seeks to raise consciousness and courage to uplift the deprived.

FUSION OF CULTURE AND HERITAGE Over the past several years, Mutya ng Pilipinas has placed aspiring beauty queens in the Philippines BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

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TALISAY, PHILIPPINES Cristal Jane Lacida

CANADA Jean Nicole de Jesus

LA UNION, PHILIPPINES Allesandra Casimiro

CEBU CITY, PHILIPPINES Hershy Gajudo

ISABELA, PHILIPPINES Jaymie Lou Pagulayan

La Paz Tarlac, Philippines Angelynne Huxley Cabrera

against overseas delegates from different parts of the world. Mutya is the first ever national beauty pageant that brings in representatives from the Overseas Filipino Communities. The inclusion of mixed race is to build up more challenge, appeal, and equal chances to all aspiring Filipina beauty queens worldwide. At the same time, the fusion of each delegate’s origin and varied cultures instantaneously equalizes a celebration of customs, traditions, and patriotism. “I believe that the Filipinos at heart have something that no other culture has. Their hospitality never fails to treat you like family, which I think is the greatest asset of the Philippines,” shared by Mutya ng Australia, Nina Robertson. The national aerobics champ and hockey enthusiast would like to submerge herself in Filipino culture and be able to polish her Tagalog. “It will prepare me to promote the people, the beautiful places, and the delicious food,” she added. Meanwhile, Mutya ng Arizona, Jessie Delprete, promotes the Philippines by doing Filipino folk dances in social events. “I want to learn more about Filipino tradition,” she shared. The immense influx of the most gorgeous and aspiring belles from the foreign land were motivated by MPI’s thrust to promote tourism all over the 84

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archipelago and globally. This year’s impressive line-up of aspiring beauty tourism crusaders are all excited to go back to their roots, imbibe the unique culture, and explore the majestic tourism spots in the Philippines.

FILIPINA EMPOWERMENT Annually, striking Filipinas all over the world converge for one glorious night of beauty and grace in the prestigious National Pageant. The contingent from Southern California, Aislinn Anne Sebastian said, “I want to make a name for myself in the Philippines and to be able to help boost tourism and the community in many different ways.” Jean Nicole de Jesus, 23, Mutya ng Canada, was crowned as Miss Philippines of the World in Canada and as part of her winning is to represent Canada in this year’s Mutya pageant. Aside from aspiring for the crown, she is a successful Financial Adviser in a prestigious credit union in Alberta, Canada. Representing Central Luzon, Jessica Rose McEwen, a Communication student was born and raised barefooted in Whangarei, New Zealand before moving to the Philippines in 2006. “I have the pure heart of a Filipino who is determined to take the height of the country and of Philippine culture and beauty to a

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BATANGAS, PHILIPPINES Serine Ann Obviar

CARAGA, PHILIPPINES Cris Ann Leyson

ZAMBOANGA, PHILIPPINES Rainalyn Capitle

BULACAN, PHILIPPINES Marlyn Guinto

ZAMBALES, PHILIPPINES Rosette Joyce Tayam

TUGUEGARAO, PHILIPPINES Katherine Caguioa

whole other level. I believe that my determination, confidence and my willingness to strive will take me to greater heights and hopefully win me the title.” From the United Kingdom, Kiaragiel Gregorio was born in Cabanatuan City and moved to England in 2007. “My ambition would be to finish my education and hopefully embark in the legal profession. Once I have achieved this, I would like to use this knowledge to help those less fortunate because education is a fundamental key to fighting poverty and that everyone should have an equal chance for getting education regardless of their race, gender, or religious beliefs.” Selected representatives from various cities, provinces, and Overseas Filipino Communities were sent to Manila for this highly anticipated competition which showcases the best of Filipina beauty and intelligence. Mutya ng Pilipinas 2015 winners will represent the country in International pageants. They will vie for the most-coveted titles of Mutya ng Pilipinas – Asia Pacific International, Mutya ng Pilipinas – Tourism and Mutya ng Pilipinas – Overseas Communities. Major titlists are sent as the Philippines’ representative to elite international competitions such as Miss Asia Pacific International, 86

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Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International, and Miss Tourism International which will be hosted by Vietnam later this year. Hence, it is said that the beauty queens who were sent as representatives to the international competitions proudly magnify the real essence of beauty worldwide. Going beyond the captivating look, it goes deeper into the epitome of beauty inside and out.

Interested in joining Mutya Ng Pilipinas 2016 or simply want to learn more? Visit their website at www.MutyaNgPilipinas.com or contact them at mutyainternational@gmail.com.

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At the forefront of any business is the assurance of quality and service. And in the burgeoning beauty market, Magic Potions offers something more than beauty. Convenience. For all its meek success and increasing number of habitués, Magic Potions remains impartial to its commitment on providing a variety of health supplements, skin care, weight loss and wellness products made from pure and high quality ingredients. Magic Potions has been one of the trusted leading ONLINE SHOP in the Philippines that distributes imported and locally made Nutraceutical and Beauty products since 2004. “We carry high quality products manufactured exclusively for our brand,” shares Magic Potions President Moe Pinpin, a banker turned entrepreneur with an innate passion for business. Magic Potions prides itself as a company that provides real value for money. Their BeauOxi White and White Allure lines proven to be two of the most effective brands in the market. This only proves that the best results should come from products made from high grade sources. But aside from positive and great reviews, www. magic-potions.com, their website, extends the luxury of convenient shopping. With just a few clicks, the products you ordered can be delivered right at your doorstep. Shopping has never been this easy!

Magic Potions ships worldwide. Interested in being a reseller or a distributor? Visit any of Magic Potions’s branches/offices or email distribution@magic-potions.com for more information. For comments and suggestions, please email feedback@magic-potions.com or contact us at +63 917 888 2999 90

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Rising Status Beauty and business may prove to be the best combination for success. Owners Robina and Roseann Ko shares how Status Hair Salon is throwing an entirely new ball game to the beauty industry.

01 Roseann and Robina Ko, Status Hair Salon Owners 02 The cozy branch at Robinsons Galleria 03 Italian hair brand Nouvelle is exclusively carried by Status Hair Salon

“Salon is a very good business to be in [because] nobody wants to be ugly. When people have problems, they get a haircut and a makeover. When people lose their jobs, they want to get beautified—they want to feel better. What ever happens in your life, in every occasion, there’s a way for you to make money [in the salon business]. It’s an industry that’s not easy to kill,” shares Robina Ko.

Miranda Bldg. Katipunan, Quezon City +63 442-8004 /+632 915-683-0201

SMRC Bldg. Katipunan, Quezon City +63 434-6733 / +632 933-943-9219

Tomas Morato +63 463-0069 /+632 927-638-9403

Eastwood +63 570-5399 /+632 927-9176082

Greenhills +63 584-0592 /+632 917-736-4483

Robinsons Galleria +63 634 3385 /+632 916 7028134

Status Hair Salon has been in business for over 4 years providing services in line with the highest international standards. It is a modern salon catering to a young, hip, trendy and upwardly mobile market looking for quality looks on a reasonable budget. Over the years, it has amassed a great deal of satisfied customers including some of the most famous personalities in the country. Status Hair Salon is also the official partner of Project Runway Philippines and the recent 2015 Miss Earth Pageant. This year, Status Salon is encouraging you to be in the same business with them and try your hand at beauty and success. “We do the training and hiring for them,” tells Robina. “We have our own line of products, like Nouvelle, that we

carry from Italy of which we are the only carrier in the country. Given that we carry international brands, we bring foreign stylists to train our staff or we give the staff the incentive to go abroad. [In the past years, we’ve sent them to] Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Singapore.” Status Hair Salon prides itself as a value for money business. Customers, as well as franchisers, can be assured of the quality of service only the salon can provide. For a minimum of 1.5 million, you can start your own 50-60 square meter salon. This includes: • Construction • Salon Supplies and Equipment • Procurement Program • Franchisee Training • Staff Hiring and Training • Operations manual • Marketing Collaterals • Opening Support

PLUS Unlike other franchised salons, Status Hair Salon waives 3 months of royalty fees upon signing and will only remit 8% from the 4th month to the 2nd year, and 10% on the remaining years of the franchise term.

For franchising inquiries and a copy of Status Hair Salon’s list of services, go to www.statushairsalon.ph.

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WRITER John Christopher Amodo

Whether it’s acne, pigmentation of the skin or fine wrinkles, a chemical peel is a popular, proven method for skin repair. Although there are several alternatives, homemade peels should not replace chemical peels done by professionals because without professional supervision, the intended treatment may lead to irreversible setbacks. So what exactly is a chemical peel? Chemical peel was ranked fourth in the Top Non-Surgical Procedure of 2014 study according to American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). This body treatment technique’s main objective is to beautify your skin using chemical solutions. Chemical peels can treat certain types of acne, treat wrin94

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kles caused by chronic sun damage, reduce signs of aging around the eyes and mouth, and lessen freckles, age spots and melasma, more commonly known as the brown to grey-brown patches in the skin due to excessive sun exposure, among other things. Chemicals used in peeling: alpha hydroxyl acids (AHA), beta hydroxyl acids (BHA) and trichloroacetic acid (THA), are dependent on the type of problem a dermatologist and certified aestheticians evaluates on a patient. BHA is more commonly used than AHA because of its ability to get deeper into the pore. There are also other types of chemical peels such as Jessner’s peel, Retinoic acid peel and Phenol peel, the latter being the strongest type of all peels. Consulting with your doctor or dermatologist about certain topics before the surgery is a must. This includes explaining the specific area to be peeled and any history of skin issues like scarring, and herpes. It is advisable that two to three weeks before the procedure, the patient must start cleansing the face and cease harsh medicine intake like retinoid creams. Preparation during the procedure depends on the type of peel to be done. During a superficial peel, the skin is

Special thanks to Kaycee Reyes MD, DCD, MSc London of Luminisce Clinic (Holistic Skin Innovations) 2nd Floor, Mercury Drug Building, 32nd Street corner 4th Avenue, Forth Bonifacio Global City, Taguig 1634

Are chemical peels the right solution for you?

cleaned, then applied with the chemical and left for a few minutes to let the chemicals set. The same procedure is used in a medium peel but the chemical is left for a longer period of time for better absorption. This and the deep peel require sedative or oral pain reliever thirty minutes before the session. The total procedure time takes a minimum of twenty minutes depending on how large the area is being treated. A slight stinging sensation occurs as the applied chemicals work on the skin and the patient must resist the urge to scratch it. Aftercare varies depending on the strength of the chemical peel used. The patient can expect reddening and scaling of skin that usually lasts for three to seven days. While in deeper peels like TCA, it will go from swelling of the skin to its turning brown until it peels off after over 14 days. “You need to cleanse the skin gently and apply post peel creams religiously. It is important not to scratch or pick the scabs. You should also avoid the sun and wear sunblock. Use anti-aging creams seven days post procedure” shares Dr. Kristina C. Reyes of Luminisce Holistic Innovations. Skin type is one factor that can affect the result of chemical peeling. Dark-skinned patients are most likely to get temporary or permanent uneven skin tone as a result. Other factors include the before and aftercare done by the patient and the dermatologist’s proficiency. In general, the deeper the peel, the higher the risks of side effects and complications. “Superficial peels use 20 to 50 percent AHA and BHA. These can cause post peel color change, which is more common in dark skinned individuals. It may take several months for it to fade. If the patient is taking oral isotretinoin medications, it may darken the skin. Scabs can also form after a peel. Patients with history of herpes might experience reactivation of the infection. Patients with allergy to the solution may develop rash, redness and blisters. Deep peels like TCA of 30-50 percent may lead to blisters and scars if not done properly” Dr. Kristina C. Reyes added. Chemical peels are very popular among women in their mid-20s to repair sun damage and women with “over-thehill” status to hide signs of anti-aging. If you are planning to get a treatment, don’t let the “chemical” term pull you back. Like everything else, it should be done in proper regulation and of course, prevention.

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

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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