Boracay Sun | April 2017 Issue

APRIL 2017 ISSUE | VOL. VII NO. 03 | BORACAY’S MONTHLY NEWS ON RECYCLED PAPER

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IN THE NEWS 7107 ISLANDS ROTARY BORACAY EXPAT FILES CENTERFOLD LIFESTYLE HEALTH PEOPLE

ALGAL BLOOM: BOON OR BANE? locals who have witnessed the recurrence of this phenomenon.

KAREN BERMEJO

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hether we like it or not, the beautiful white sands in Boracay will be partially covered by green algae particularly starting from February until the end of May. This phenomenon had been observed even before tourism bloomed in this island decades ago.

Due to the continued tourism development in the island, the presence of the green algae is sometimes wrongly tagged to the influx of tourist arrivals here.

This is however countered by authorities and even

IN THE NEWS

According to Atty. Helen Catalbas, director of the Department of Tourism in Western Visayas, the algal bloom in Boracay is a blessing, not a curse to the tourism industry. “Algae is a blessing because it contributes to why the Boracay sands remains white and cool, where one can walk even under the scorching sun,” said Catalbas during the recent meeting of the Regional Ecotourism Committee.

the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) attests that the island’s water is safe, based on their February 2017 water quality assessment. The recent monitoring showed that the water along the White Beach where these algae can be seen, have not exceeded the normal levels for identified pollutants and water quality has excellently improved.

EMB Director Livino Duran likewise said that algal bloom is part of nature, not an indicator of polluted water, adding that there was no significant increase in the volume of the species.

Contrary to reports that Boracay water is polluted,

7107 ISLANDS

CENTERFOLD

Boracay ports to upgrade to int’l standards

Tibiao: Antique’s up and coming adventure capital

Rotarians donate blood station equipment to Red Cross

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LIFESTYLE

PEOPLE

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RCY volunteers A Day in Jakarta PLEDGE to save lives

CHASING SUMMER

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We can now definitely feel the delightful glare of the sun, warming up our skin, giving us that sun-kissed glow. We wake up early; happy to see the blush of dawn while we swim in that all familiar algal bloom during summer. Believe us, it’s natural; we’ve seen this occurrence year after year. And it’s a positive bloom.

In the days of February until May, the island’s shoreline is partially filled with green algae – a natural phenomenon that contributes to why the Boracay sands remain white and cool even during these summer months. This algal bloom is actually seen by the locals as a blessing; for one, it signals the start of the summer after all.

On April 22, we dedicate one day to our one and only home, this Earth. This year’s Earth Day campaign is focused on environmental and climate literacy.

So we bravely open this issue on algal bloom that made rounds on national media sparking contradicting opinions, in the hope to educate the public about the truth behind the green algae we see floating in the shoreline of the White Beach. We gathered valid information from authorities and testimonies from Boracay natives who have seen it through time.

There’s just too many good news to share, too – new flights, port developments, new destinations to go, or maybe, some new diet options for the summer. And in the coming months, our island will soon have a functional blood station facility.

Thanks to our Rotarian friends in Boracay and in South Korea whose partnership brought this project to life.

All of these happen in our favorite season – SUMMER.

COVER

YOUR BORACAY SUN FAMILY

By Alva Alvarez

WWW.BORACAYSUN.COM Managing Editor KAREN BERMEJO Guest Editors BLANCHE BASCO & BETH JALEA Art Director ALVA ALVAREZ

MA. TERESA FAJILAN

“I am letting go of who and what does not make me happy… to make space for the ones that will inspire and make my life flow with happiness…” ~ MTFB I guess the real fact of the matter is… we don’t know what tomorrow will bring, and the only thing we really have is RIGHT NOW. So, don’t stay mad for too long. Learn to forgive and love with all your heart. Live every day of your life the way you want to live it. Don’t worry about people who don’t like you. Enjoy the ones who love you. ~ WorkingWomen.com

Columnists JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS, KLAUS DORING, MICHAEL JEROME MADRIAGA Contributors JUN ARIOLO AGUIRRE, DOUGLAS FABILANE, PETER PAUL LUSEGRO, MARIAN CASTRO - ORDILLO, RAVEN MARIE POMAR, AYZA QUEREJERO Contributing Photographers ISLA GRAPIKA & MARIA ANGELINE ZALAMEA Publisher THE BORACAY WALLSTREET INC.

BE ALONE. Eat alone, take yourself on dates, sleep alone. In the midst of this you will learn about yourself. You will grow, you will figure out what inspires you, you will curate your own dreams, your own beliefs, your own stunning clarity, and when you do meet the person who makes your cells dance, you will be sure of it, because you are sure of yourself.

President & CEO MA. TERESA FAJILAN Sales and Marketing Manager MICHELLE ELIZON Operations Manager JOANN “AJ” BARRIOS Boracay Sun Office

Monaco Crossing Tulubhan, Manoc Manoc, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan 5608 editor@boracaywallstreet.com

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Copyright © April 2014 Boracay Sun. All rights reserved. Printed in the Philippines.

Except as permitted by law, no part of the Boracay Sun may be used, reproduced or distributed in any manner whatsoever without written permission of Boracay Sun. The publisher accepts no liability for the content correctness of any advertisement and reserves the right for editorial freedom of the press under the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines Article III (Bill of Rights) Section 4.

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Testimonies Boracay locals also defended the presence of the algal bloom in the shorelines of this world-renowned island.

Septuagenarian Mila YapSumndad said there is nothing to be alarmed about. As a native of the island, Sumndad said that the green algae naturally appear during summer months and the increasing tourist population in the island has nothing to do with it. “It is there every year and usually becomes thick starting from March until May,” she said.

Barangay Captain Lilibeth Sacapaño of Balabag also agreed that the algae have been present even before the development in the islands started. “We even used to play with these algae during our younger years. They are already here decades ago,” she stressed. “For us, these algae are not pollution but blessings,” she added.

For Sangguniang Bayan Member Datu Yap-Sumndad, there is no truth to the notion that these algae are

due to pollution. He stressed that algae formation is not only present in Boracay but even in nearby non-touristy beaches. He said that algae are also present in some beaches in Buruanga and in Hambil or Carabao Island in Romblon, which have lesser tourists.

Moreover, the councilor said the local government unit of Malay is working together with other organizations in the island to mitigate the impact of tourism on the environment. The councilor urged the public to disregard the false information on the algal bloom in Boracay, adding that it is

everybody’s responsibility to protect the island’s image.

He said the harm that these false information could create will greatly impact not just Boracay alone, but of the country’s tourism industry as well.

Meanwhile, for the part of the business sector, Boracay Foundation Incorporated President Dionisio Salme said an information drive about the truth of Boracay algae is being distributed to different establishments here.

He said proper information dissemination and public education is needed to protect the island.

Salme also stressed that BFI continues its program to protect and maintain the environment of Boracay.

Science to solve environmental woes, ensure food safety introduced in Boracay JUN ARIOLO AGUIRRE

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he Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Aklan said science and technology can be helpful to maintain Boracay’s tourism industry.

Talks between DOST and the Malay-LGU is now ongoing to create solutions on environmental woes, as well as, ensure food safety in the island.

Jairus Lachica, DOST-Aklan chief said one of their experts, Dr. Melinda Palencia, a professor and an environmentalist from Adamson University, presented her programs to the Sanguniang Bayan of Malay already.

Photo courtesy of pcieerd.dost.gov.ph

has no biological component, and does not introduce into the system new or foreign microorganism. Its application in septic water treatment was tested and proven through a research and development project funded by the DOST.

“Dr. Palencia invented the Vigormin, a white powdery substance which she also calls an eco-friendly septic system (ECO-SEP) technology for domestic wastewater treatment,” Lachica said.

Currently, the vigormin is being used to treat the odor coming from the residual waste at the centralized material recovery facility in Manocmanoc.

According to Lachica, the organo-mineral (Vigormin) is a white powder mixture of naturally occurring minerals that are sourced locally in the Philippines. It

Lachica said the technology was first introduced in Boracay in 2015 during the island’s hosting of the meetings of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation

summit. After its successful introduction, it is now widely used in different tourist destinations in the country including Palawan and Bohol.

Meanwhile, Lachica said DOST is continually conducting food safety assessment and trainings among different hotels.

The training includes workshop for food handlers and also consultancy on proper food management.

Lachica said DOST is seeking the help of the LGU to put up a satellite office in Boracay.

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Boracay ports to upgrade to international standards JUN ARIOLO AGUIRRE

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eared to become the next cruise hub in the country, the Aklan Jetty Port Administration is now upgrading the facility in both Caticlan and Cagban jetty ports.

This developed after the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Aklan Provincial Government and the Royal Caribbean Cruise Ltd. (RCCL) forged a memorandum of understanding to make Boracay into a cruise hub.

The signing was held on March 18 in Fort Lauderdale, Frorida, USA. Undersecretary Benito Bengzon represented DOT while Governor Florencio Miraflores for the province and John Tercek, Vice President for New Commercial Development, represented the RCCL.

IN THE NEWS Part of the upgrading into international standard is to ensure seamless travel both for persons with disability (PWDs) and senior citizens, since most of cruise passengers are retirees.

Boracay is the Philippines’ third largest cruise ship destination with 29 calls over the last four years.

The list is topped by Puerto Princesa with 39 transits and 16 overnight stays, followed by Manila with 48 transits and five overnight stays.

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Lucio Tan’s foundation plants mangrove in Boracay

Meanwhile, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez led a group of congressional representatives in inspecting the Strong Republic Nautical Highway or the roll-on, roll off (RORO) ports in Panay and Negros Islands.

The 11-day travel expedition in the different ports here including Caticlan started March 16 and ended March 27.

Accompanied by Representatives Rodolfo Fariñas of Ilocos Norte, Celso Lobregat of Zamboanga City and Cesar Sarmiento of Catanduanes, Alvarez first inspected the Caticlan Port last March 18. The group likewise visited Boracay Island.

Alvarez said the improvement of RORO ports will boosts tourism. “We anticipate the influx of tourists this Holy Week. We wanted to know the state of the ports. We are planning to put more budget allocation for the improvement of ports and the roads linked to it,” Alvarez said.

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n its bid to save, protect and preserve the mangroves of Boracay, the Tan Yan Kee Foundation, headed by business tycoon Lucio Tan Jr., conducted a mangrove planting activity here last month.

Tan, who is also chair and CEO of Tanduay Distillers, Inc., a corporate partner of the mangrove rehabilitation project, joined local officials and residents in planting mangroves along the coast of Sitio Lutugan in Barangay Manoc-manoc last March 17.

The mangrove planting activity is in line with the group’s commitment to restore the mangrove vegetation of the island paradise in support of the national greening program of the government.

For the project’s sustainability, Tan’s group is also instrumental in the construction of the boardwalk in the area to maintain cleanliness.

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Photos Courtesy of DOT Region 6

New flights in Caticlan connect Boracay to other PHL destinations

APRIL 2017

Fare rate is around PhP3,500 per way.

AirSWIFT likewise opened a new route connecting Boracay to El Nido in Palawan, one of the acclaimed tourism destinations in the country as well.

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Photo Courtesy of @ElNidoArtcafe

oracay will now be connected to other tourism destinations in the country, including El Nido, Iloilo and Davao as more airline companies have opened new flights at the Godofredo Ramos Airport in Caticlan.

Filipino airlines Air Juan Corporation and AirSWIFT launched their new route last month.

Air Juan launched its new flight from Iloilo on March 20. The flight cuts down the travel time between Iloilo and Caticlan to 45 minutes, instead of the five to seven-hour land travel.

The 9-seater Cesna plane will operate its Iloilo-Caticlan route every Monday and Thursday.

From Lio Aiport, AirSWIFT made its inaugural flight last March 17 using the airline’s 48-seater ATR-42 600 aircraft.

The airline will a week, every Sundays. During would cost only

fly to and from Boracay four times Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and its initial operation, a roundtrip flight around PhP6,000.

Aside from Iloilo and El Nido, locals and tourists in Malay can now fly directly to Davao, as well.

The new flight connection to Davao will be launched

by Air Asia on April 22.

With the new flights to the Godofredo Ramos Airport in Caticlan, the Aklan Provincial Tourism Office is optimistic that Boracay will likely hit its two million tourist arrival target this year.

“The new flights to Caticlan will attract more tourists to this resort island,” said Provincial Tourism Officer Roselle Ruiz.

Source: Philippine News Agency

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Tibiao:

Antique’s up and coming adventure capital KAREN BERMEJO

There is no network signal and no Wi-FI, as well, so expect to unplug from the digital world when you get there. All we can hear during the night is the water flowing along Tibiao River. After we settled our things in a tree house – yes, our room is built on an old and humungous tree – we had a relaxing and ticklish fish spa. You’ll laugh so hard as the little fishes start to bite the dead skin on your feet; a perfect way to relax the tired feet after the road travel. After feeding ourselves to the fishes, literally, we also fed ourselves with the sumptuous dinner the resort prepared for us.

Bugtong Bato Falls

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he Philippines never falls short of destinations to go to this summer. Well, we have 7,107 islands to choose from; from north to south, and even east to west, the options are just, we can proudly say, plenty. Even in one island, to answer the question of where to go varies, depending on what you want to do or see.

In Panay Island alone consisting of four provinces - Aklan, Capiz, Iloilo and Antique, the list is long.

Probably, Boracay is on top of most people’s list. But where do Boracay locals go when we get tired of our white sand beach? We don’t get tired actually, but a little break from the hustle and bustle of our touristic island is worth the trip.

With two of my hardworking friends in the island, we decided to take a trip to Tibiao, poised to be the next eco-tourism adventure capital of Panay.

Going there Going to Tibiao from Boracay is never a hustle for there are regular bus trips passing Antique. The bus going to Antique is situated in front of the roll-on roll-off (RORO) terminal of the Caticlan Port. Fare from Caticlan is just PhP111.

From Caticlan, we reached Barangay Importante after about 1.5 hours ride. It is where you will get another ride in order to reach Barangay Tuno, where most of the resorts are situated. From the main road, you may take a habal-habal or motorcycle. Fare is PhP70 per person.

It is not actually my first time to visit Tibiao’s eco-tourism sites but I was amazed at how tourism changed the place in time. Before, it was all rugged terrains, but they now have concrete roads making it more accessible for tourists.

Before entering Barangay Tuno, visitors have to register at the tourism office and pay PhP50. It was already sundown when we reached Calawag Mountain Resort, where we were staying for the night. The resort is just about 10 minutes away from the main road. The place which opened only last January is owned by Flord Nicson Calawag, the one who pioneered the infamous Tibiao Fish Spa.

We planned to wake up early and walk to Bugtong Bato Falls, a seven-tiered waterfall at the far end of the village. But the calming environment made us sleep a little longer so that instead of walking, we took a motorbike to the hiking site which is about 15-minutes away from the resort.

Visitors have to register and hire a guide before going up. Guide fee for five people is PhP150. From the main road, you will have to hike for about 30 minutes to reach the first part of the waterfalls. The first part is intended for children and seniors who cannot trek higher. The second and third waterfalls are meanwhile suited for the more adventurous. Only the professional climbers are however allowed to come up until the fourth waterfalls and beyond.

We decided to climb up until the third waterfalls before other tourists start flocking the area. It was not easy though as you have to climb the rock wall going to the third waterfalls from the second. With the help of our guide, we managed to get there and the view did not disappoint us.

It’s a shame that I could not swim, but that’s why we, sometimes, need to travel with friends. So one friend brought us to where the water really falls. Though I was gasping for my breath at the beginning, the adventurer in me just flashed a big smile afterwards.

After taking a dip at the cold water for some minutes, we started hiking down. Awed by how clean the river is, we decided to just cross the river and walk all the way back to our resort.

While waiting for our lunch, we decided to soothe our muscles with a relaxing Kawa Hot Bath, where you take a dip inside a big wok with warm water infused with some ingredients and leaves. Like you’re really being cooked! Visitors now have the option to choose what flavors to bathe in – salt, coffee, and oh, wine! I wanted to choose wine, but a salt bath was recommended for my sore muscle. The soreness was not actually from the hiking but due to stress from work.

As someone who started introducing Tibiao to the rest of the world, Flord continued to innovate and elevate the tourism industry not just in his hometown but for Antique, as well. Flord started the “dine by the river” concept where guests eat their meals while their feet are soaked in the cold water of the river.

Of course, we didn’t let the experience pass. After relaxing our body, it’s time to let our tummies work.

We enjoyed a very traditional boodle fight lunch spread on the table in the middle of the river. While we fill our stomach, we get to enjoy the sight of other tourists enjoying the cold water, kayaking, and some other doing the extreme water tubing.

The extreme water tubing is one unique activity offered at Calawag Mountain Resort where guests sit on a tube, while floating along the raging water covering almost two-kilometer distance.

Kawa bath, lunch by the river and more…

With its close proximity to Boracay, Tibiao is really a place that everyone should consider visiting this summer. Aside from the adventure destinations, Tibiao is also home to one of the biggest pearls in the world which is now displayed at their museum. You can also try the Antiqueños unique way of fishing, the Lambaklad.

Just like Boracay, tourism has improved the lives of the people in the town. Now, people in the community have more jobs and definitely, the place has more life compared to the first time I visited it a few years ago.

For more information about Calawag Mountain Resort, you can contact them at katahum.com or through mobile numbers, 09951639620 and 09283001591.

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who I presume are mostly locals, one could see their tirelessness and dedication to their crafts.

The taho vendors peddle with a gentle voice and a genuine smile. The same goes with the farmers in the strawberry fields in nearby La Trinidad and with the other tradespeople in public markets and along the streets. The beef Bulalo and Pinikpikan are served hot with a side of sincere smile.

+ ALTITUDE

Baguio is a crowded place but busy. Unlike Quiapo and other communities, people in Baguio as if savoring the thickness of

Finding Warmth in Baguio JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS

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t is one of the few places in the Philippines where one could pair a hand-woven bonnet with dark sunglasses and not look pretentious at all.

Baguio, the Philippines’ summer capital has a unique climate— sunny and yet with a constant cool breeze.

Situated in the highlands of the north, the city is also home to an indigenous culture and unique delicacies.

Their vegetables and fruits are sold fresh by the bunch and at very affordable prices. Handmade jackets and American surplus clothing come in a plethoric variety.

But I wasn’t mainly there to buy local goods. I went there in hopes of experiencing the city beyond its cold breeze.

See, it’s hard to distinguish a local in a tourism district like Baguio. It’s a city where tourists come by the buses and where native delicacies are sold next to

what seem to be Chinese merchandise.

Unlike Boracay, a place frequented by international foreigners, Baguio is cherished by local tourists in search of a relaxing environment.

I toured the free admission parks: Burnham, Mines View, Wright, Botanical, and even The Mansion.

Those are places where strawberry taho, strawberry ice cream (among other strawberry-laden products) and the infamously named sundot kulangot (pick-a-booger) are sold 24/7.

The landscapes were always picturesque and if you get close enough, what I call the Baguio skyline- concrete houses spread ingloriously on the mountainsides becomes easy on the eyes as well.

Moreover, if one would take a look at the vendors,

it does not at all seem commercial and tourist tread the streets lightly every breeze.

Folks, especially tourists, almost always don’t look down as if auto-saving every pixel of the experience in their memories.

Baguio may be a cold place, but the warm people and the warmer memories it offers bestow the mountainous city a perfect climate.

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ROTARY BORACAY

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Rotarians work together to help Boracay community KAREN BERMEJO

The partnership of Rotary Club of Boracay District 3850 and Rotary Club of Jindo District 3610 of South Korea bridged a milestone project which will benefit not just the people of Boracay, but the rest of Aklan as well.

Through the Global Grant 1640616, Boracay now has the equipment to operate a local blood collecting unit and blood station. Last March 13, at least 50 Rotarians from Korea went to Boracay to formally turn-over the equipment to the Philippine Red Cross – Boracay Malay Chapter.

Past District Governor of Rotary International District 3850 Oliver Ong said that this project is one significant importance of fostering international friendship and understanding. As another Rotary year enters, he believes that more sisterhood agreements will be made.

The project in Boracay is a testament that Rotarians are truly serving the humanity and making difference to a lot of lives. “Blood is life, and the more blood that we collect, the more lives that will be saved,” Ong stressed.

Aside from the turn-over of blood collection/station equipment, the Rotarians also visited the Ati community in Sitio Tulubhan in Manocmanoc. The Rotarians distributed food packs to at least 35 family-members of the Boracay Ati Tribal Organization.

Meanwhile, Rotary Club Boracay President Teresa Bech expressed her heartfelt gratitude to their Korean counterpart for making the project happen despite all the hurdles along the way. Gov. Kim Jun Lim of Rotary International District 3610 meanwhile pledged that the Korean community will continue to extend help and goodwill to the people of Boracay.

Delsa Justo, tribal leader, expressed her thanks to the Rotary Club for giving and sharing their time and blessings. “Since then, until now the Rotary has been helping us,” Justo shared in vernacular. The Korean visitors and members of Rotary Club of Boracay are meanwhile treated with a special dance number from the Ati kids showcasing their traditional ways of living.

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A life without cellphone?

KLAUS DORING

Sometimes, I observed (business-)people operating with two or even more cellphones or other electronic “things” (?) at the same time. I asked them: “How did you survive doing business before without these units?” Believe me or not, the answers have been mostly: “I really don’t know!”

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remember the time when one of my first Japanese friends kept on complaining why I didn’t use a cellphone. Believe me, during that time, sometime in 2000 or 2001, I was even typing my write-ups and newspaper columns on an old typewriter made in Germany in 1981.

My Japanese friend then bought me a computer and a cellphone! Some other friends congratulated me.

“Welcome back to the world!” Yes, they were really right somehow...!

Doing business nowadays without a cellphone? Even surviving a very private life? I can’t imagine it anymore.

Philippines’ cellphone companies really provide us with the widest distribution and the broadest coverage on very affordable charges. I really enjoy, for example, the unlimited call experience - just to mention one.

Two handsets or even three. Ok lang, as long it keeps my business running.

But then it happened! I thought I have lost my cellphone.

I got panic losing all my important connections. This “thing” really got a special meaning for me. And here we are: not only for business. Just even for a short

“Hi! Kumusta ka?” I really felt lonely!

A couple of hours later, I found it; misplaced somewhere in the bathroom under a towel in silent mode. Four missed calls (yipee!), several text messages – not only “Hi! Kumusta ka?” A special evening meeting had to be confirmed. I only got one big problem – I need a translator, if the words of text messages indeed go weird.

Allow me to quote Philippine Star columnist Igan D’Bayan, who wrote some years ago: “We don’t speak like Hamlet any more. Most of us speak Taglish and write in Filipinized English. And while holding a mobile phone, we type ‘2b or not 2b’. And that’s supposition!”

Btw (‘by the way’), during night time, I turn off my cellphone. How about you?

Email: doringklaus@gmail.com or follow me in Facebook, Linkedin or Twitter or visit www. germanexpatinthephilippines.blogspot.com or www.klausdoringsclassicalmusic.blogspot.com.

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ROTARY IN ACTION: Rotary Clubs Jindo and Boracay turn over blood collection unit/blood station equipment to Philippine Red Cross DOUGLAS FABILANE

tube sealer/stripper, bleeding couches, computers, projectors, power generator and other supplies. The Rotary Club of Boracay will still monitor completion of Global Grant 1640616.

Lim of RI District 3610, Immediate Past President of Rotary Club of Jindo Jong-On, PRC Boracay-Malay directors, admin and volunteers, RI District 3850 and Boracay Rotarians, stakeholders and friends.

The equipment was donated by the sister-clubs Jindo and Boracay through the Rotary International Global Grant. It will be housed in the PRC BoracayMalay Chapter office at the ground floor of the First Love International Ministries building in Ambulong, Barangay Manoc-Manoc.

With this development, PRC Boracay-Malay Chapter will now have the capacity to store collected blood and therefore, minimize the time in processing and obtaining blood when needed. Initially, the blood collecting unit will only be able to collect and store blood, but PRC Boracay-Malay Chapter will be working very hard to upgrade the facility to a full pledged blood bank in order to serve more communities and be part of the PRC blood bank network.

Past District Governor of RI District 3850 Oliver Ong delivered the welcome remarks. PRC Boracay-Malay Chapter Chairman Joseph Medina formally accepted the equipment on behalf of the Red Cross while Rotary Club of Boracay President Teresa Fajilan-Bech delivered a very emotional closing remarks.

The donation includes blood bank refrigerator, blood mixer, autoclave, microscope, serological centrifuge,

The ceremonial turn-over was attended by Korean Rotarians headed by Past District Governor Kim Jun

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inally, after months of waiting and much anticipation, the equipment for the blood collecting unit and blood station has been turned-over to the Philippine Red Cross Boracay-Malay Chapter.

Dan Beaver of the First Love International Ministries was also present and was awarded with a Certificate of Appreciation for ministry’s invaluable contribution by allowing PRC Boracay and now the blood facility to stay in their building for free.

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Sufficient blood supply in Boracay KAREN BERMEJO

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he PhP2.5 million worth of health equipment from the sister Rotary Clubs of Jindo, South Korea, District 3610 and Boracay, District 3850, will ensure enough blood supply for the residents of the island as well as in mainland Malay and other neighboring towns.

The equipment is now turned-over to the Philippine Red Cross-Boracay Malay Chapter which will handle the operation of blood services in the island.

Chapter Chairman Joseph Medina said the furnishing of the blood station at their office in Sitio Ambulong, Manocmanoc is expected to be completed and become fully operational this year. The construction of the facility is funded by the Philippine Red Cross.

Long wait paid off!

This project was conceptualized in March, submitted for Rotary global grant in April, and formally agreed upon through a memorandum of agreement between the PRC and the Rotary Club of Boracay last May 1.

In April 2016, President Teresa Fajilan-Bech and Club Secretary Aldo Yap went to Jindo, South Korea to formalize the Club Sisterhood and to discuss the details of the project. They were joined by District 3850 Governor Oliver Ong. In June 17, 2016, as a result of a successful visit by Pres. Teresa and Rotarian Aldo to Jindo, South Korea, 11 Rotarians from South Korea headed by then Club President Jong-On Park, and their official Interpreter Rotarian Hongjae Jeong or Mark, in turn visited Boracay to meet with the Boracay club members and also check the proposed location of the blood facility.

The Rotarians from Jindo, South Korea were also the special guests during the Rotary Club of Boracay Induction of President Teresa and the new set of officers. The visit also gave the Korean Rotarians to see the world-famous Boracay Island.

The application for the global grant was approved in July 2016.

The equipment was originally proposed to be installed in an unfinished building in Barangay Caticlan grounds but the building needed funds to be completed and may not be ready in time. Other locations were considered but finally, it was decided for the best interest of the community, that the facility be established within the PRC Boracay-Malay office.

Last December 2016, the Rotary Club of Jindo once again visited Boracay for final site inspection before the turn-over. They were pleased to see the final location of the facility after several hurdles encountered in the process.

The Blood Collecting Unit/Blood Station is expected to operate in a few months. The Rotary Club of Boracay and the PRC Boracay-Malay Chapter is now working on having the equipment fully delivered and installed, the laboratory fully staffed, and that licenses are secured from respective regulatory offices.

Until then, we could feel secured knowing we will finally have easy access to blood supply when needed.

Aside from the facility, Medina said the Red Cross will also train and hire additional medical team for the operation of the blood station.

“Before, patients in the island have to travel to Kalibo for blood transfusion; the blood station will ensure accessible blood services here,” he said.

Medina also said that having sufficient blood supply in the island is necessary because of the high population and increasing tourist arrivals.

Meanwhile, PRC-Boracay Malay Chapter Admistrator John Patrick Moreno said the local blood station will also enable the chapter to help attain the 1% blood collection requirement of the town in line with the National Blood Services Program of the Department of Health.

The town needs at least 560 units of blood yearly for the about 56,000 population of the town.

The blood station facility will also allow donors to donate blood anytime instead of waiting for the scheduled donation activity, Moreno added. “With this blood station facility, we can now maximize our blood donors in the island,” he ended.

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LIFESTYLE

ADVERTORIAL

Prisma Shines New Light on Tropical Bars in Boracay

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risma, a modern tropical bar, welcomes guests to paradise this year at Hue Hotels & Resorts Boracay, the island’s newest boutique resort. The project is the latest concept from Pylon Partners Inc., the team behind Manila’s premier speakeasy, ABV—voted #14 Best Bar in Asia 2016, the top-ranking establishment in the country.

With live entertainment, vibrant design, natural foliage, rushing waterfalls, and a laid-back ambience day and night, Prisma offers a full spectrum of experience.

Stocked with the largest rum collection in the Philippines, the bar features a ripe assortment of signature cocktails and classic recipes, showcasing a variety of refreshing flavors, textures, and techniques. Visitors can enjoy the expertly crafted drinks poolside or tableside, along with cordial service in an oasis-like environment.

Helmed by General Manager Andrei Campian, a Romanian expatriate living in Iloilo, Prisma caters to Boracay’s internationally diverse set, at the same time, elevating the local cocktail culture.

A seasoned, multi-faceted professional, Campian has tended and managed bars in Vietnam, California, Romania, and Dubai, where he was a semi-finalist at the Bacardi Legacy competition and placed second at the UAE National Jameson Competition in 2015.

Prisma made its soft launch last month. It will be fully operational, including the pool lounge area, beginning May 2017 along with the grand opening of the hotel.

Prisma is at Station X, Hue Hotels & Resorts Boracay, Station 2, Main Road, Boracay Island.

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APRIL 2017

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BORACAY SUN

LIFESTYLE

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APRIL 2017

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The Best of My First Solo Travel:

A Five-Day Bali Journey AYZA QUEREJERO

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cultural hub, Ubud; the breathtaking Tegallalang Rice Terraces, and of course, the very infamous and must not be missed, Pura Taman Saraswati Temple, which is truly a gem. Beaches are also Bali’s best assets - from crystal clear sea for swimming to strong waves perfect for surfing.

My first solo trip to Bali gave me more reasons to travel alone in the future. I spent five days exploring the place. I thought five days is long for one country, but it felt not enough after the trip is over.

For the five-day trip, I was able to discover Bali with my PhP20,000 all by myself. Here’s a breakdown of how I spent my money.

taying on the same place for too long make me see myself in a certain way. I felt like I am stuck and that I needed change. And the only way towards change is to challenge myself.

So I began to travel and explore new things which enabled me to realize that I can choose whatever I want to be.

My first two days were spent appreciating Bali’s artistic culture. Every corner is oozing with creativity, and temples are everywhere. I went straight to Tanah Lot and Uluwatu Temples and experienced Bali’s famed sunset while witnessing their traditional Kecak Ramayana and fire dance.

Second day was spent exploring Bali’s ultimate

• • • • • • •

Accommodation (Villa Ketupat) – PhP5,500 for five nights with breakfast Tour Guide – PhP4,500 for three days including motorcycle services Food – PhP2,500 for 10 meals Entrance Fees – PhP2,000 Pasalubong – PhP3,000 Transportation – PhP500 (Taxi Fare) Excess – PhP2,000

Travelling solo gave me the chance to indulge myself fully. It was indeed liberating. Distance from the familiar also made me realize that some people in my life aren’t important as I thought they were. The unexpected exploration of unknown routes made me develop the strength I thought I never had.

Travelling solo also made me realize that I’m just a tiny speck in this universe. While my life feels like it’s about to fall apart, the rest of the world is moving and time hasn’t stopped. Doing things on my own gave me the space I needed to grow.

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LIFESTYLE

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APRIL 2017

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A Day in Jakarta

MICHAEL EVERYWHERE

MICHAEL JEROME MADRIAGA PHOTOS BY: MICHAEL MADRIAGA AND MARIA ANGELINE ZALAMEA

One of my favorite spots in this park is my dream destination, Bali. I actually overheard a tourist couple saying that they were surprised that the place, including the sculptures and other formations, looks very similar to those in Bali. The experience made me want to visit Bali even more.

There are also different attractions inside the park like the Cactus Garden, Bird Park, Komodo Dragon Museum where you can also see one alive, and a street full of vendors selling souvenirs and local delicacies.

And, as an added attraction, there are rides around the park like a giant ferris wheel and a cable car from where you could have an aerial view of a man-made lake with islands depicting the Indonesian archipelago.

Kota Tua

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ecently, I feel like I’ve been visiting (and enjoying) cities just for a day and trying my best to do all the things I could within that limited time. The first city where I challenged myself was in Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital. Good thing, I always have my good friends to accompany me and who are always game with whatever challenge I put myself into.

Jakarta, one of the most populous cities in Asia, also serves as the economic and political center of Indonesia. The ambiance of the city, in my own honest opinion, is somehow very similar to Manila. The city is very humid, there are traffic congestions along the business districts that could even go worse during rush hours and there are also a lot of street vendors along the sidewalk.

We were also warned to take good care of our belongings as there are lots of instances where tourists are robbed. Robbing incidents notwithstanding, Jakarta is vibrant and beautiful, and I still plan to visit the city and would still recommend it to other travelers.

Here are the places that you could visit for just a day in Jakarta: Taman Mini Indonesia Do you still remember how, as kids, we enjoy the Nayong Pilipino where miniatures of the tourist attractions around our country were displayed? Well, Indonesia has the same attraction, only bigger, more colorful and offers better activities and understanding of the Indonesian culture.

Taman Mini Indonesia, otherwise known as the Beautiful Indonesia Miniature Park, is a 250-acre destination that showcases all of the 26 provinces of Indonesia. Each section provides an overview of each province from its architectural styles, attractions, food offerings, and even provides an experience of its local culture and traditions.

If the Philippines boast of the Mestizo District in Vigan, Ilocos Sur and the walled city of Intramuros in Manila, Jakarta has the Kota Tua, also known as the Jakarta Old Town. This part of Jakarta is where the Dutch settlement was located.

You will be surprised by the district’s European architectural styles. Different museums, cafes and markets are scattered around Kota Tua, and the highlight and most significant building of them all is the Town Hall which now serves as a museum.

Experiencing Indonesian food is also a must when you are in Kota Tua. There are various food stalls offering different street foods for a very affordable price. One of my friends actually used Philippine Peso when she bought an ice cream as the vendor is collecting different banknote from all over the world and didn’t even care if the value is lower than the actual price.

Food When it comes to food, Indonesia offers everything from breakfast to their famous durian ice cream. If you’re starving from all the activities you’ve done in a day, just visit any nearby food stall and order whatever you want as most of Indonesia’s food offerings are served in big portions.

The Indonesian version of Nasi Goreng is best eaten during breakfast to jumpstart your appetite for the day; it consists of flavored rice, chicken, fried prawn chips, a rice crisp bar, vegetables and egg. I also recommend trying the Bakso, a savory clear soup dish made with rice noodles, meatballs, and fried wonton wrappers which gives it more texture.

My favorite among the dishes I’d tried is the Indonesian version of Siomai (other stores spell it shumay). What makes it different from the Chinese bite-sized dim sum that we are more familiar with is that it is bigger – even bigger than a baseball – and is served sliced with cabbages and a nutty spiced sauce.

Other famous tourist attractions in Jakarta include the National Monument, a symbol of Indonesia’s fight for independence, and Dufan, a theme park located by the sea. For shopping, don’t miss the Grand Indonesia Shopping Center where you could also try other food offerings in a more comfortable ambiance, and also shop for other souvenir items and food products that you could bring home to your loved ones.

Overall, a day in Jakarta is really not enough for one to experience everything. Thanks to our dear friend who lives in Jakarta, Verd D., going around the city was made a lot easier. This trip may just gave us a glimpse of what Indonesia has to offer, nevertheless, I think we still managed to enjoy the city for a day and would definitely challenge ourselves to visit the capital of Indonesia again.

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BORACAY SUN

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HEALTH

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APRIL 2017

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Furthermore, homeopathy, by definition, is a scientific system of healing which assists the natural tendency of the body to heal itself. Hypothetically, since you are eating less and it is becoming a habit because you need to stick to your diet program to make it work, your body tends to adapt to it.

The biggest question maybe, why was it never approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)?

In an update posted by FDA in 2013, Shirley Blakely, a nutritionist at FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, emphasized that HCG diet can be dangerous and potentially fatal. As per Blakely, the average calorie intake is 2000 calories and dropping it to 500 could be crucial.

HCG Diet: Yay or Nay? MARIAN CASTRO- ORDILLO

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hoah, what do you know…finally, it’s summer!

You have your suitcase packed, flights booked, vacation leaves plotted - everything seems to be great… oh, except your beach ‘unready’ body!

Elisabeth Walther, a pharmacist at FDA, mentioned that the agency does not evaluate homeopathic drug products for safety or effectiveness, and does not fully accept scientific effectiveness of homeopathy treatments. However, those that meet certain conditions set by FDA may be sold in the market.

Weight Loss Phase, where you continue to take the drops and start with your daily 500-calorie diet plan.

Maintenance Phase, wherein you have the option to stop taking the HCG drops and just continue with the diet, but still avoiding sugar and starch for at least three weeks.

It’s everywhere on social media and is selling like hotcakes. I was surprised to know that a lot of Filipino and foreign celebrities are being hooked up with this pound-shredding potion. Well, we can list a certain pros why is that so. It’s super affordable, nonabrasive, non- surgical and you can finally quit your gym membership because IT DOES NOT REQUIRE EXERCISE. Not at all.

“HCG is not on this list and cannot be sold as a homeopathic medication for any purpose,” Walther reiterated.

In conclusion, it IS the diet, NOT the drops that actually works.You might as well take the HCG diet minus the HCG. However, VLCD that goes along with it is not highly encouraged due to a variety of side effects. Starvation induce complications like depression, headaches, dizziness, heart diseases, anemia, and, well, the list goes on. In any case, it is still best to take a diet program under a physician’s supervision or a nutrition expert in order to know if your physical and emotional condition is also up to any method that you chose. Better be cautious than sorry.

Yes, you might want to cancel that order now.

Summer is too short. Your tendency is to find the easiest way to shed pounds. You go online and found out about this diet supplement that people are going crazy about - HCG drops. You dig tons of reviews on IG about losing a whopping one to three pounds a day!

Everybody claims that the product works perfectly.

Thousands of photos on the internet with before and after shots of people,who have claimed to try it, are spreading like disease. It is tempting, and so I did a little research.

Guess what I have found out?

Imagine being able to wear your old jeans and bikinis, you have outgrown. That would be a blast! Next thing you know, you are already signing up for your first bottle.

Well, if I were you, I’d better read this before you do.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a type of naturally produced hormone developed after implantation of placenta on a pregnant woman’s womb.

During the 1950s, Dr. A.T.W. Simeons, a British endocrinologist, developed the HCG diet. Ideally, his research recommends an individual to take small daily shots of about 125 to 200 IU of HCG with VLCD (Very Low Calorie Diet) to achieve at least 1-2 pounds of weight loss daily.

The diet has three phases: Loading Phase, wherein you initiate intake of the drops and be required to have high calorie meals for two days.

HCG diet is actually just a mind game. No more. No less.

First of, an intake of ONLY 500 calories each day (the minimum VLCD requirement) would enormously make you lose weight. That’s a no brainer. Imagine just eating a slice of pepperoni pizza or half the size of a sub sandwich that will cover you from breakfast until dinner. No wonder, no exercise is required for this diet because you would never have the energy to do so, anyway.

HCG diet was specifically designed to have shots initiated by doctors under strict prescription. Most of the market nowadays, sells ‘homeopathic’ drop… meaning, they are highly diluted. On the labels, you will show marks that says 6x, 12x, 30x and so on. If you do the math, well you could have just a molecule of HCG diluted in a billion molecules of water. And, you paid PhP2000 for that?

Sources: https://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ ucm281333.htm http://www.fox19.com/story/22797857/fox19-investigates-hcg-dietblamed-for-killing-west-chester-mom https://caloriebee.com/vitamins-supplements/unsafe_hcg_diet http://www.self.com/story/why-weight-loss-supplements-andinjections-are-so-dangerous

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RCY volunteers PLEDGE to save lives

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uman blood is one thing that cannot be manufactured and recreated by science alone. Thus, a human being is the only source of it.

Moreover, the availability of blood is greatly significant in saving lives. It is needed in giving immediate treatment in times of accidents and also for treating patients suffering from cancer, bleeding disorders, chronic anemia and other hereditary blood abnormalities.

By donating blood, a person is not just actually saving another person’s life, but his or her life as well for it lowers a person’s risk of cancer, heart and liver ailments and even promotes weight loss on a healthy way. Regular blood donation also helps in maintaining good health for it stimulates the production of new blood cells in the body.

A person can actually start donating blood at the age of 16 years old with parental consent. To show that the youth can also help on saving a life, volunteers from the Philippine Red Cross-Red Cross Youth of Boracay faced their fear of needles.

Five volunteers made history as to join the Pledge 25 movement of the RCY during a blood-letting activity held February 24. Pledge 25 is a project of the Red Cross wherein young blood donors pledge to donate blood three to four times a year until they reach 25 years old.

PEOPLE

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APRIL 2017

“I was given a chance to donate my blood with the help of my Red Cross Family. At first I was scared because it is my first time to donate as this age (16) and I am so blessed that I passed all the requirements for the bloodletting. All the pain and fear will lessen when you realize how much it is worth to donate. All big things start from small ones. I hope that the small thing I have done will do a big change. I hope this action will enable people to realize that change starts within us.

On that day when I successfully donated my blood with no hesitation, it made me feel I am already a hero. That blood can save life and it is already a fulfillment for me as a youth. In that very moment, I realized that I am born to this and this is my purpose and my role in life - to be a volunteer.

In this year I started my journey in just donating blood but it has a big impact in my life.

There’s no word that can describe what I feel on that day and I wanted to do that for the rest of my life.” ~ Raven Marie Pomar, 16 Chapter Youth Council President

“Last year, Ate Rona (Inocencio) invited me to donate blood. I was a bit curious about it so I accepted the challenge. Unfortunately, l was not able to donate. However, this year, l was lucky. With my friend Abdul Hakim Azis, we successfully donated blood last February 24. I was very excited. Filling up the forms and everything just seemed so exciting. But not until we entered the room where the bloodletting was held.

I started to feel nervous but my excitement prevailed. I tried everything to alter my nervousness. I cracked jokes and “hugots” just to suppress what l felt. Everything went fine, my weight and blood pressure was okay and l felt grateful that l can donate my blood. My happiness was doubled after l found out that l am type AB. “This is it!” I thought while I was lying in bed.

Thanks to Ate Rona, l felt secured because she volunteered to prick the needle for me. My fear of needles somehow downscaled. Of course the needle hurts but the idea of saving a life by just donating my blood lessened the pain. Overall, the experience was great, plus l got to save a life. It’s really cool especially with to see my other friends donating blood as well. I really can’t wait to donate again and l think l will do this full time.”

Led by their Chapter Youth Council President Raven Marie Pomar, the young heroes from Boracay National High Schools-Main, Boracay Island Global Academy and Lamberto H. Tirol High School donated not just their time to the chapter but their blood as well.

Saving a life requires no age. These RCY heroes proved that even young people can make a difference in the community by donating blood and encouraging others to become blood donors

Still not convince why it matters to donate blood? Let these young donors tell you their stories.

So if these young people can, sure you too can. If you are healthy and fit to donate, spare some of your time and it’s time to roll up your sleeve and save a life — including yours.

~ Peter Paul Lusegro, 19

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