SEPTEMBER 2014 | VOL. IV NO. 8 | BORACAY’S MONTHLY NEWS ON RECYCLED PAPER
WWW.BORACAYSUN.COM
The final sunsets of habagat are upon us as we welcome the amihan season with open arms this September.
WHAT’S INSIDE
Photo by Jack Jarilla
BEHIND THE SMILES
IN THE NEWS 7107 ISLANDS OPINION LIFE & LEISURE PEOPLE CENTERFOLD EVENTS IN ROOM HEALTH & WELLBEING INDULGE SOCIETY
Page 3 Page 6 Page 7 Page 9 Page 13 Page 16 Page 18 Page 21 Page 22 Page 24 Page 28
By Monique Tolentino
THE celebrity culture we live in is allpervasive and tends to influence the way we often look at the world. We tend to glamorize and revere the people at the top, frequently engaging in subtle and covert forms of hero-worshipping when it comes to the great and the good, the successful ones. Even within these
pages we’ve mainly concentrated on the more prominent islanders amongst us, the ones owning the resorts and running the businesses, the ones who have helped shape the island and people have heard about. Well, it’s time we flipped the script and turn the spotlight on the unsung heroes of Boracay, the nuts and
cogs which allow the great Boracay machine to revolve, the ones who are hidden from sight whilst being right there in front of you the whole time. The workers, the ones that serve your food, bring your drink, clean your rooms, deal with your concerns and reservations. These people work hard and deserve as
DESIRE September Essentials
LEISURE GUIDE Mandala Spa’s The Vessel
SPECIAL FEATURE Behind the Smiles
>>> PAGE 25
>>> PAGE 10
>>> PAGE 16 & 17
much credit as anyone, yet no one ever seems to know anything about them. So, we decided to do something about that. We’ve chosen a few at random and taken the time to delve a little deeper.
LIFE & LEISURE
7 Reasons You Should Check Out Bulabog Beach This Amihan Season
>>> PAGE 9
CONTINUED TO PAGE 16
KUSINA AFFAIRS Leftover Delight >>> PAGE 26
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BORACAY SUN
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EDITORIAL
EDITOR’S NOTE THE ‘Ber months are officially here and, in the Philippines, this marks the beginning of a new season. As the weather transitions from Habagat to Amihan, this brings a lot of adjustments, ends, as well as new beginnings in and around Boracay Island. For Boracay Sun’s centerfold feature this month, we will be shedding the spotlight on the ‘little guys’. These are the people who won’t normally be on the cover or a centerfold spread but equally deserves to be on it for the service they provide and the love they have for Boracay and its community. We feel that everyone deserves to be given recognition. For a change, we focus on the ‘ordinary’ people who make our island extraordinary. In line with these changes, Boracay Sun warmly welcomes a new management that is committed to upholding your community paper’s standards. As we progress with this new administration, we sadly bid a fond-farewell to our Editor-in-Chief Freida Dario-Santiago who has opted to follow a different path. Her contributions to Boracay Sun will forever be immortalized not just in our previous issues but also in the hearts of everyone who has had the privilege to read, appreciate and be part of how she was able to raise the quality and standard of Boracay Sun. This issue is also in part, a tribute to her, my mentor. As I, ‘the little guy’, try to fill the big shoes left behind by stepping up to be the Acting EIC, I hope the rest of our readers will continue to grow and support Boracay Sun as we take on new challenges and go in a new direction.
ACTING EDITOR IN CHIEF LAYOUT ARTIST SENIOR GRAPHIC & WEB DESIGNER ILLUSTRATOR & PHOTOGRAPHER COLUMNISTS
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
We will continue to embark on this adventure (unscathed by whatever challenges and issues have been thrown at us) and constantly evolve as we strive to bring you the excellence that the community, the tourists, our advertisers and our avid readers deserve.
Acting Editor in Chief
LETTER FROM THE NEW MANAGEMENT Ma. Teresa Fajilan, President & CEO A great opportunity is right by our doorstep. Now with a nationwide distribution, Boracay Sun will reach people from the different parts of the Philippines, all the way from the north to the south, and will be read by Filipinos, the Expat Community, and tourists alike. This opportunity is very exciting and overwhelming. But before anything else, allow me to thank Mr. Vic Jeffery, the founder of Boracay Sun, who with his brilliant mind, set up this paper. My
utmost gratitude to you and to all the other key people who contributed their time and effort to keep this paper alive. Without you, none of this would have come into fruition. I look forward to continue this endeavor with much gusto and dedication. We will work our way into making Boracay Sun the most anticipated monthly paper that continues to serve the community by disseminating knowledge and information emanating from the warmth and beauty of this beautiful place we live in.
Monique Tolentino Alva Alvarez Denise Tolentino Daniel Leemon Dr. Maria Cristina Teotico Marlo Schönenberger Rea Anchores Reo Mendoza Pauline Astronaut Gary Fontaine Pia Miraflores Samantha Bouffard Jun Aguirre Kate Hammaren Rica Velasco Kindra Colonia Denise Tolentino Jack Jarilla
_____________________________________ PRESIDENT & CEO Ma. Teresa Fajilan OPERATIONS MANAGER Joann “Aj” Barrios KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Joyce Ann Moros (Boracay) ________________________________________ FOR ADVERTISING / INQUIRIES Boracay: (+63 36) 288 2582 Mobile: (+63 917) 528 9297 Email: advertise@boracaysun.com PUBLISHER Boracay Sun Monaco Crossing, Tulubhan St, Brgy. Manoc Manoc, Boracay Island Email: editor@boracaysun.com; editorial@boracaysun.com info@boracaysun.com www.boracaysun.com
boracay.sun
theboracaysun
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CONNECTIVITY CONNECT with the Boracay Sun social media community today by joining us on Facebook (Boracay Sun), Twitter (theboracaysun), Instagram (theboracaysun), and by visiting us online at www.boracaysun.com. Post your Boracay holiday photos with us by using #boracaysun on Facebook. HEAVY traffic along the famed island of Boracay is not a laughing matter, but with no concrete solutions in sight, we decided to find out what Netizens thought about it. So last July, Boracay Sun conducted an online poll on Facebook. We asked: “Which mode of public transportation do you think is most suitable for Boracay Island’s congested Main Road?” The answer choices were: Tricycle; eTricycle, eJeepney (The Comet); Motorbike; or Multicab Vans. Poll results revealed that the eTricycle was the most preferred (76%), followed by the eJeepney (14%), Multicab vans (4%), Motorbikes (3%) and Tricycles (3%). Goes to show that at least for these poll participants, the ‘king of Boracay’s roads’ is not popular at all. So join our next poll and be counted – it could be fun!
GUEST CONTRIBUTORS FOR SEPTEMBER Samantha Bouffard was born and raised in Cebu City and has been a visitor of the island for many years until she moved permanently in 2013. She currently works for MyBoracayGuide as a reservations agent and has a passion for writing that is sated through publications such as Boracay Sun and Diamond Online Services. Rica Velasco fell in love with Boracay when she first visited in 1996 and vowed to live here someday, this wish was finally granted in the year 2007. She worked as a front liner in the Hotel and Service Industry; aside from working in 5 Star Hotels and on cruise ships, she also had the experience of working in a casino and a call center. She started off in Boracay working at the Front Office Department of Two Seasons Boracay, and for the last 6 years she has been devoted to working for My Boracay Guide. She recently started dabbling in the freelance world so she can enjoy her time on this paradise island to the fullest extent.
LETTERS We would like to hear from you, our valued readers. Talk to the editor by emailing at editor@boracaysun.com. Send us your comments and feedback to editorial@boracaysun.com.
_______________________________________ 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.
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC THIS IS TO INFORM THE PUBLIC THAT
ABEGALE COURANT CLARINO, is no longer connected to the following companies: The Boracay Wallstreet Inc. / Boracay Sun, Boracay Extreme fun, I-Flyboard Extreme, Boracay Sun Travel, and Beachland Estates Inc. Any transactions made by her on the company’s behalf will not be honored by the said companies effective July 21, 2014. Please report immediately any such unauthorized activity.
Get in touch with the Boracay Sun office directly at (036) 288 2582.
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BORACAY SUN
IN THE NEWS
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PROVINCIAL NEWS
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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Photo Credits: www.facebook.com/DOSTRegionVI
DOST SCHOLARSHIPS FOR AKLANONS UP FOR GRABS By Boracay Informer THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) here is calling on young Aklanons to avail of scholarships being offered by the government for the next school year – 2015-2016 for incoming high school and college students who want to pursue careers in science, mathematics and engineering. For incoming high school students, they have a chance to study at various campuses of Philippine Science High School (PSHS) in the country provided they pass the National Competitive Examinations (NCE), while for graduating high school students this year, they have a chance to avail of the DOST Science Education Institute (SEI) 2015 Science and Technology Undergraduate Scholarship if they also pass the qualifying examinations set by the DOST. For those who wish to enter the PSHS, they first need to submit application forms in 2 copies for the NCE, two identical, recent 1x1 ID pictures, nonrefundable test fee of P100.00 if from private schools, and a copy of report card for SY 2013-2014. Testing fee of students of public schools is free. Qualified to apply for the PSHS NCE are Grade 6 elementary pupils of duly recognized schools by the Department of Education (DepEd) belonging to the upper 10% of the batch and do not have a grade below 80 as certified by the school principal
or registrar; a Filipino citizen with no pending application as immigrant to any foreign country; must be born on or after June 1, 2000; in good health and fit to undergo a rigorous academic program, of good character and behavior and have not taken the PSHS NCE previously. Deadline for submission of application forms is on or before August 15, 2014, while the examination is scheduled on October 4, 2014. If they pass the NCE, these PSHS scholars will enjoy free tuition fee, free loan of books, monthly stipend and uniform, and transportation and living allowances for low-income groups. For applicants of the DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarships, they have until August 22 to submit their filled-up application forms at DOST-Aklan. Applicants must be natural-born Filipino citizen belonging to upper 5% of the regular high school graduating class of a DOST-SEI identified of DepEdrecognized science high school; a resident of the municipality for the last 4 years as attested by the barangay, and of good moral character and in good health. The date of examination for DOSTSEI Undergraducate Scholarship is September 21, 2014. For the DOST-
SEI Undergraduate Scholarship, those qualified will enjoy P10,000.00 tuition and other school fees per semester or P8,000.00 per trimester; P10,000 book allowance per year; P500.00 MS/PE uniform for 1st semester for first year only and monthly living allowance of P5,000.00 for those taking BS Physics/ Applied Physics, Physics Teaching/ Geology/Mining Engineering and for other DOST-SEI priority courses – P4,000 per month.
classes if required per curriculum, book allowance of P500.00 upon submission of receipts and monthly allowance for two months. Once graduated, the DOST will also provide the scholar a post-graduation clothing allowance of P1,000.00.
Those studying outside of their home province will also get 1 economy class round trip transportation allowance.
Qualifiers in the DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship can study in at least 34 universities all over the country designated by the DOST which are offering courses of their choice. (JCM/VGV PIA6 Aklan)
The DOST will also provide tuition and other school fees during summer
Application forms for the two scholarships are available at DOSTAklan, and can also be downloaded at the website (www.sei.dost.gov.ph).
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BORACAY SUN
IN THE NEWS
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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PROVINCIAL NEWS KALIBO: THIRD MOST COMPETITIVE MUNICIPALITY IN PH By Boracay Informer AKLAN’S capital town Kalibo has been named as the third most competitive municipality in the country this year, following Daet in Camarines Norte and General Trias in Cavite. They were picked from a list of 399 municipalities evaluated in the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) 2014 report of the National Competitiveness Council. In the cities category, Makati City was named most competitive. It was followed by Cagayan de Oro in Misamis Oriental and Naga in Camarines Sur. SP approves conversion of Kalibo airport road. The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan has approved a resolution to convert the access road of Kalibo International Airport into a national road. The resolution endorsed by Gov. Florencio Miraflores was approved during the August 6 session of the SP. The conversion, according to the resolution, will enable the Provincial
Government to ask for funds for the expansion of the said road. CMCI measures the competitiveness of a city and municipality based on three factors: economic dynamism, government efficiency, and infrastructure. Kalibo was also named as the most competitive municipality in terms of government efficiency followed by Tupi in South Cotabato, and San Mateo in Isabela. Meanwhile, the top cities in terms of government efficiency were Naga, Iloilo, and Angeles in Pampanga. Government efficiency scores were based on transparency, economic governance, local taxes and revenues, local competition-related awards, business registration efficiency, investment promotion, compliance to national directives, security, health, and education. Last year, Kalibo was ranked 45th among the municipalities in overall competitiveness and 109th in terms of economic dynamism. It ranked 31st in government efficiency and 15th in infrastructure category.
ISLAND NEWS
Photo Courtesy: www.aklanforum.blogspot.com
The CMCI report was developed by the NCC through the Regional Competitiveness Committees (RCCs) with the assistance of the INVEST Project of USAID. Tanza, Cavite followed by General Trias, Cavite and San Pedro, Laguna, meanwhile were the three most competitive municipalities in terms of economic dynamism.
Camarines Norte bagged the top rank for most competitive city and municipality in the pillar of infrastructure adequacy. For the infrastructure category, the most competitive municipalities were Daet, Rodriguez in Rizal, and Paniqui in Tarlac while the top cities were Davao in Davao del Sur, Cagayan de Oro in Misamis Oriental, and Marikina.
For the cities category, it was Paranaque, followed by Makati and Manila. Economic dynamism is measured through size and growth of a local economy with data base on business registrations, capital, revenues, and occupancy permits; capacity to generate employment; cost of living; cost of doing business; financial deepening; productivity; and presence of business and professional organizations.
Infrastructure scores were based on existing road network, distance from city/municipality center to major ports, Department of Tourism accredited accommodations, health infrastructure, education infrastructure, basic utilities, infrastructure investments, ICT connection, ATMs, and public transportation.
On the other hand, Davao City and Daet,
*Informer with reports from PNA
Photo Courtesy: www.facebook.com/boracay.dragons
BORACAY DRAGONS CHAMPION IN US FRISBEE TOURNEY By Boracay Informer THE Boracay Dragons Frisbee Team once again made history as it grabbed the championship trophy in the first Ocean City Beach Ultimate Frisbee Tournament in Maryland, Washington DC held on August 9 and 10. Prior to the team’s victory, Boracay Dragons also won second place in the 14th annual Ultimate Chicago Sandblast, a two-division beach ultimate frisbee tournament in Montrose Beach, Chicago, Illinois last August 1 to 3. They also bagged third place under the elite category in the 22nd Wildwoods Beach Ultimate in New Jersey last July 26-27. The group was also the first and only Asian team that has joined the competition. The group, composed of local athletes from Aklan, was formed in 2002.
According to the group, their US tour is part of their preparation for the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) World Championships of Beach Ultimate in Dubai, United Arab Emirates next year. The team finished with a silver medal twice, first in Brazil 2007 against Australia and the last one against Team USA in Italy 2011.
SEX TOURISM DESTINATION? 35 human trafficking victims rescued in Boracay By Boracay Informer THIRTY-FIVE women believed to be human trafficking victims were rescued from three bars in this resort island in three separate police raids conducted last August 7.
According to Police Senior Inpector Mark Evan Salvo, Boracay Police Chief, of the women rescued, 18 were working at Zwamppy, 10 at Isla Bora and seven at Wave 98.
The entrapment operations were conducted by members of the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO), Aklan Provincial Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Group (PAIDSOTG) and the Boracay Tourist Assistance Center (BTAC) in cooperation with the Office of the Women’s and Children’s Protection Desk (WCPD), MSWDO Malay and Provincial Social Welfare Office. Through a police asset, the police raids were conducted at Zwamppy located in Sitio Lugutan in Brgy. ManocManoc; Isla Bora at Sitio Bantud, also in Manoc-Manoc village; and Wave 98 located at Sitio Hagdan, Brgy. Yapak.
Salvo said most of the girls were aged 18 to 25 and were recruited from nearby provinces. He also added that the girls were usually hired to work as bar waitresses but were believed to be sexually exploited once they started working. Four persons including – Dodie Cawaling, 39, owner of Zwamppy Videoke Bar; Arlyn Serato, 39, owner of Wave 98 Videoke Bar; and Jade Castro, 42 and Reymar Legaspi, 27, owner and manager of Isla Bora Resto Bar, respectively, were arrested by the raiding police team.
The suspects were arrested after they received marked money which served as “bar fines” in taking out the women. The victims were meanwhile turned over to the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and now at the Daeangpan it Kababayenhan in Kalibo.
on the other hand said that they do not recruit their women workers, but it was them who applied at their bar.
The suspects are detained at the Kalibo police station and now facing charges for violation of Republic Act 9208 or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003.
On the other hand, in an effort to strengthen the campaign against human trafficking in the country, the 1343 Action Line — a 24-hour hotline was established by the Commission on Filipino Overseas on 2011.
Meanwhile, the suspects denied that the women were forced to work as sex workers. In an interview over Radyo Todo, Serato of Wave 98 Resto Bar denied that her employees were forced to work. She said that five of the seven arrested women were even her relatives. But Serato admitted that one of her waitresses worked extra as a sex worker but not at her bar. Legazpi of Isla Bora
He added that they multiply in number because some of their workers recruit their friends from their hometown like Iloilo and Manila.
Through the hotline, victims of human trafficking may seek help while the public may report human trafficking cases. For those in the provinces, the 1343 hot line can be accessed by dialing Manila’s area code (02) and the hotline number while text-based 1343 Action Line is also available to all Globe and TM mobile subscribers.
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BORACAY SUN
IN THE NEWS
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T OURISM
PRIME CHOICE:
ELEVATING BORACAY FOOD TOURISM BY PROVIDING QUALITY IMPORTED MEAT By Boracay Informer Dubbed as a 24/7 island, Boracay never fails to offer what every tourist wants in this world famous destination –powdery white sand beaches, various water and land sports activities, colorful souvenirs reflecting Aklan’s rich culture and its much-hyped night life. FOR an island frequented by tourists from almost all parts of the world, Boracay also never fails to offer exciting gastronomic experiences to its visitors. Embarking on Boracay Island’s booming tourism industry, fine dining restaurants and chefs offering different world cuisines continue to sprout here to cater to the tastes of tourists from different countries as well as to introduce their individual food materials. However, as the demand for meat continues to increase; the scarcity of supply of quality meat in Boracay drags them away from its fullest potential. With this in mind AMEATRIX Inc. - supplier of US and Australian meat in the Philippines decided to meet the islands requirements and be part of the solution to elevate Boracay’s food tourism. Just recently, AMEATRIX opened its Boracay store called PRIME CHOICE, supplier of fine quality meat. Ameatrix Inc. owner, Australian Scott Chambers, said PRIME CHOICE aims to offer
quality imported meat at the right price for the people of Boracay. “We aim to lower the prevailing price of these quality imported meats in the market and make it affordable to tourists and locals alike,” Chambers stressed. Recently, in a product tasting held at the Wave Lounge of Boracay Regency, owners, chefs and purchasing managers from different hotels, restaurants and bars on the island got a taste of what PRIME CHOICE could offer. Among the high quality US and NZ meat choices presented were USDA Rib Eye with medium level marbling, USDA Porterhouse Steak, NZ Shoulder Lamb Chops, NZ Mini Lamb Roast, Homemade Pork Breakfast Sausages and also Homemade Thick Pork Sausages. PRIME CHOICE also assures they will offer the best and most tender beef in the island. As well as Rib Eye they will also offer Striploin, Tenderloin, Prime Centre Cut Porterhouse, Texas T-Bone, Top Round, Lamb Cutlets, Lamb Ribs, Lamb Leg, Lamb Shanks, Lamb and
Beef Sausages, Baby Back Ribs, Short Ribs and much much more. They will soon have their own Smoke House located at the shop where they will be making their own Australian Double Smoked Ham and Australian Double Smoked Bacon on the Island. There will also be highly trained butchers located in the shop very soon who will be there to prepare all your meat to your liking. Another product that will arrive very soon will be Norwegian Salmon. So the next time you plan to make a sumptuous meat dish, choose only meat from PRIME CHOICE. PRIME CHOICE store is strategically located at the main road of Sitio Kipot, Manoc-Manoc, Boracay Island. For more inquiries of their products, please contact 288-3463 (FINE).
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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BORACAY SUN
7107 ISLANDS
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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EXPAT EXPLORER SIBUYAN - ISLAND OF WATER by Daniel Leemon The Journey to Sibuyan is not an easy one, involving early morning non-connecting boats and uncomfortable bone-rattling jeepney rides through the Romblon archipelago, but if you like hiking, rivers, and waterfalls, it’s a trip that’s so worth it… SIBUYAN is a simple place, two or three humble little towns basking in anonymity with a laid back ambience, an island absolutely swamped in green, an overwhelming collage of verdant vegetation, layer upon layer of lush foliage and trees and effervescent rice fields shimmering in the sunlight and backed by the immense and towering Mount Guiting-Guiting, always looming in the background. And rivers. Lots and lots of rivers, turquoise green waters and trees which cascade down and overhang the river’s edge, beautiful, entrancing and tranquil. Upon arrival, I have a choice of what to do first. Take on the beast that is Mount Guiting-Guiting, a formidable hike and climb, or go and explore the myriad of wonderful falls dotted around the island. I decide to start with the latter. I start off on my whistle-stop tour with the wonderfully-named Dagubdub Falls, turning off the main road and riding my bike through a little community and past a couple of remote settlements until I run out of road and I’m surrounded by fields, at a loss of where to go next. A passing local takes pity and guides me through the feral fields until we reach the river and wade through, following a sort of path on the other side and finally reaching our destination, a circular pool of opaque turquoise fresh water fed by a small rapid at one end. We clamber up alongside the river’s edge on a path aided and abetted by a series of the most rudimentary ladders and bridges made from untreated branches until we reach the second level, another pool completely engulfed in jungle. I jump in and enjoy the nature. Next up is Lambingan Falls, following a little path starting right off the main road, meandering through thick jungle and clinging onto the river’s shore until I reach a series of smaller pools, lots of different levels, one after the other, allowing you to climb from one to the other in a gentle but lung-opening endeavor. The mosquitoes are out in full force though, so I don’t linger. Cantingas River offers something different. A wide and slow-gushing body of water which has been made into a fantastic man-made attraction by the addition of two fun features. Two platforms spaced about 100 meters apart
are connected by zip-lines where you can strap yourself in and whizz along from one to the other, soaring above the water in a heart-stopping ride, such fun. Then you have the ‘diving boards’, three levels extending from the bottom platform and offering you the chance to leap off into the river from a great height, usually whilst letting out a gutteral roar. I’m goaded into attempting the first level, probably around 15 feet high, by a bunch of little river urchins, then ‘encouraged’ to go from the second level, this one around 8 feet higher. I jump, fall, it hurts a bit, so I retire and spend time watching the little blighters fearlessly jumping from the top platform, almost 30 feet high. The next day I go for a couple of hikes, firstly entering the Mount GuitingGuiting reservation and setting off with my genial guide, heading for the Gaong River and its falls. The journey takes me through thick jungle and imperceptible paths, my informative guide constantly pointing out the different endemic flora and fauna which has earned the island its tag of the ‘Galapagos of Romblon’, then wide open fields of fern with magnificent views of the imposing peaks of the mountain, along the river, the water flanked by an other-worldly landscape of smooth and rounded rocks stretching into the distance. This is a proper workout, though my guide casually flits form rock to rock like a mountain goat, barely breaking sweat, and we follow a path away from the stream, up a steep elevation, along the plateau, then back again when suddenly… the trees open up and we arrive at the river’s edge. Steep high walls hide the lush body of water, a series of small rapids forming two pools perfect for cooling off. The location is stunning, the water cool and fresh. It’s been hard work but rewarding. Trekking to the Cataja Falls proves to be easier as the wide path goes through fields of grassland, then into a sparse forest, out the other side to become an easy trail hugging the river, reaching the series of multi-layered steep ledges, the water thundering and gushing and zigzagging through the black marble-like Dalipi rock.
Recommended Place to Stay:
www.isledreams.com
ISLE DREAMS - Olango
Located on the beach at the south side of Sibuyan near a freshwater lagoon and perfectly placed as a base for the ‘tougher’ climb up the mountain, Sa Agoho Beach Resort is a lovely resort, beautiful individualistic cottages set right on the sand and constructed in a fantastic European-Philippine fusion, idyllic and tranquil. Also available as part of the Isle Dreams grouping is long-term accommodation of equally charming huts scattered around this little haven by the sea.
So many waterfalls, all with their own unique charm.
Recommended Place to Stay:
www.sanctuarygardenresort.com
SANCTUARY GARDENS - Magdiwang An enchanting set of huts and rooms in a stunning, beautifully designed resort, spectacular landscaping with the cottages ensconced amongst the vegetation on the multi-leveled hill, with great views, a serene and relaxing oasis. Also a monkey and bird sanctuary. Located at the foot of Mount Guiting-Guiting on the north side.
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BORACAY SUN
OPINION
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EXPAT FILES Flooded Out By Daniel Leemon As I settle into my first full rainy season on the island, I see a transformation taking place and I’m exposed to the ugly side… RAINY season. Fierce winds and lashing rains whip the west coast and subject it to a tortuous existence, forcing bars and restaurants to pull up the shutters, or in this case wind breakers, transforming elegantly-designed establishments and making them look hostile and unappealing. The weather brutally affects life on the island, stripping it bare and revealing its skeletal understructure, whilst the constant rain mixed in with the dirt of the earth coats the whole place, staining the windows, the motorbikes, your clothes, the floors, the windows, everything becomes a little messy and dirty. But it’s the roads and paths which are most distressed. There’s only one road, and parts of it seem to be permanently submerged under water, whilst the few paths leading to the beach become rivers and making your way to the strip becomes an arduous trek as you wade through water mixed with dirt and festering with dengue-carrying mosquitoes and a putrid aroma. It’s quite the transformation. How does a swanky and expensive island with all the mod cons and fineries tourists have come to expect turn into a 3rd World shanty town after a half-day downpour? Boracay has been around as a tourist destination, and a high end one at that, for quite some time. The weather has always been the same. How come these problems still exist? Why has no one done anything about it? I guess the answer lies in the culture, and a little bit of logistics.
Local governments, the whole world over, are usually reactive and not proactive. Even more so in this country, and especially on Boracay, when it usually falls to the island’s more wellmeaning expat businessmen to push for any necessary improvements. It seems everyone is just used to waiting for local action groups to get together and find solutions. Even more so when you consider that the tourism industry in this country is not quite as developed, and the idea of planning for the future is not exactly commonplace. So we tolerate the floods.
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In the meantime, just enjoy the fact that it’s still a pretty nice place, and that when the dry season starts again we can all enjoy the transformation back. If you don’t have bad times you can’t appreciate the good times. Or something…
The other aspect of all this is logistics. In order to make the necessary drainage alterations (as well as improvements to the roads), you basically need to shut the island down for a few months, sort everything out, and then start again. I can’t see this happening any time soon. Just like many destination hotspots in Asia, the process was to get the tourists in, then think about the infrastructure. Is it now too late? I hope not.
RAYMOND ‘JASON’ PROBYN - A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS By Daniel Leemon
“There was no electricity, only a few hotels, we had these little kerosene lamps and everyone used to go to bed at 8pm. If it had carried on like that I probably would’ve left, but then, after a couple of years, electricity came in and everything changed. Light, internet, TV, fridges… before that, we used to be proud that communication with Manila, for room reservations for our Marriage
SEPTEMBER 2014
Which brings us to the locals. The culture in this country is one of acceptance, an acceptance with a laid back shrug and a smile, putting up with strenuous and uncomfortable conditions and just getting on with it. This is a great characteristic, but, unfortunately in this case, we see the other side of the coin. It’s their refusal to make a fuss which leads to local governments ignoring the problem. If this was Europe, so many people would complain about the floods and the roads that something would be done about it. The local government would be forced to act, by sheer pressure of public opinion. So, one of this culture’s great assets becomes a hindrance. Stand up and complain, and maybe force the improvements, though I’m not sure it’s possible to switch such a characteristic on and off.
EXPAT CONFIDENTIAL
JASON, real name Raymond Probyn, is a multi-faceted guy who’s been here since 1986, witnessing the slow transformation of the island, adapting and moving with the times, accepting the changes and accentuating the positive, still here thirty years on. Having graduated with a Masters Degree in Thermodynamics, he then worked in oil exploration in volatile and harsh environments around the world, then did a stint as a pilot in South America, before retiring to the Philippines and setting up a Marriage Bureau, the inner workings of which took him to Boracay, in those days the tropical island paradise of lore. He looked around the myriad of islands this country is comprised from, realized that there is no substitute, and moved in permanently.
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Bureau business, only took four days…” he explains. In 1989, together with a partner, Delnora Nano, he opened up Nigi Nigi’s, at first just a restaurant offering humble accommodation and affordable dishes, piping classical music over the speakers and steadfastly refusing to serve alcohol. This wasn’t as strange as it might seem today. “The original idea for Boracay was to push ‘low density tourism’, single villas spaced five meters apart, 75% of the land around your hotels devoted to a garden, cars and bikes would be banned, no neon lights, no loud music…” So what happened? In his personal story, the need to survive forced some creative thinking.
“After about five years of operating, we had a three month period where we were empty, not a single soul. I had to do something. So I came up with serving food and drinks on the beach, and introduced a happy hour. No one else had done this. After that we were sold out of drinks every night…” The commercialization of the island is a hot topic, with many bemoaning the changes and what has been lost. Jason has no time for this type of wasteful pondering, seeing things as they are and taking the bad with the good.
it as the natural turn of events, we’re all part of the destructive process of changing the environment. And at least if everyone is over here, other places are protected. 90% of the Philippines is still unspoilt…”
“First off, it’s the price of land that has driven this commercialization, great increases forcing businesses to make more money. But it’s all still within limit. White Beach has not changed much, conservation policies have ensured the beaches are still clean and natural, everybody can still find their own niche of paradise here, nature with easy access to commercial nightlife… although there is a dark foreboding that Boracay will become like Torremolinos …”
So, this one-time oil explorer, pilot, marriage arranger, hotel & bar owner, landscape consultant (another string to his bow), and now also author of a (very long) book entitled “The Latest Anti-Ageing Strategies”, is not only staying put, he’s embracing the changes that come his way, and still retains the adaptability that has allowed him to stay here for such a long time. And he’s still living in his own slice of paradise.
Normally this is the point that the old time expats start harking back. Not this man. “Me, I’ve changed with the proverbial wind, I appreciate the number of different restaurants and all the different options, and I can still walk along a lonely beach if I want to… at the moment it still has both sides, the touristic and the holistic… and I accept
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BORACAY SUN
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OPINION
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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MY BORACAY STORIES & BEYOND Part Ten : You Have 3 Seconds! By Gary Fontaine LET me start by being brutally honest, even though that is often viewed as a risky decision for journalists… Over my lifetime, I’ve had several good friends that were “dogs”, from all parts of the animal kingdom, but I am not a “dog lover”. I much prefer cats, though I’ve had a couple of gruesome encounters with felines as well, which, however, are not part of this Boracay story.
Sooo... shhhh... ponderrrr... carefully count up the pluses and minus for each choice. You have 3 seconds!
rather than try further to prevent the execution of our sage. At least, I chose that for our dogs.
I chose the former.
So, before you quickly escape to the next enticing Boracay Sun article, which would you choose? Again, you have 3 seconds!
And there you have it. I chose “years to live” over “years lived”, and chased the juvenile to the safety of our neighbors
So, there I was, walking down the path outside our home in Bulabog here in Boracay, when I heard this gut-wrenching yelping of a dog behind me. I turned fearing the worst and finding that it was - the dog catcher had just ‘bravely’ managed to snare my daughter’s 17-year-old feeble dog that had mindlessly wandered outside our property. I ran up to his van just as it was leaving, pleading our dog’s case, but to no avail as my words fell on deaf ears. “Sorry sir, dogs are not allowed.” This is a policy that I actually support, in the abstract sense, since stray dogs on the island have always been a big problem (think rabies), especially even more since we cannot, legally, eat them for pulutan any more. But this was my daughter’s dog! Then, just as I was about to press my case with even more fervor and zeal, I noticed in terror my son’s 6-year-old dog wandering innocently in the direction leading straight towards me and the dog catcher’s van. Dilemma. Do I give up on my daughter’s old and frail dog in order to chase my son’s younger one into our neighbor’s yard to ultimate safety? Or do I ignore the innocence of the younger pup and save the old one? The one that’s been on this earth, and with us, for a lifetime and thus, garnered all the wisdom and value accrued with life-experience. This is not a trivial choice for any of us who are not, ourselves, immortal.
BORACAY FOUNDATION INC. CORNER BFI BOARD OF DIRECTORS HOLDS SPECIAL MEETING WITH AKLAN GOVERNOR By Pia Miraflores
ON July 19, 2014, the BFI Board of Directors met with Aklan Governor Florencio T. Miraflores to raise several concerns and to ask for assistance on certain matters. The BFI is seeking the support of the Governor in addressing the issues discussed as these issues have been raised several times already, and there have been no concrete solution and the problems still remain and continue to distress the island’s residents and tourists. The following issues were raised: 1. Flooding in Ambulong 2. Kids loitering in the beach every night 3. 1 entry-1exit policy to apply also for cargoes 4. Shouldering for over-crowded Main Road 5. Status of the Kalibo Airport Upgrade 6. Status of the Boracay Hospital 7. Support for the Coral
Reefurbishment: Coral Restoration Project 8. Request for Beach Cleaning Machines The Governor has clearly identified action items, and has committed to give utmost attention to address the issues concerned. He has also committed to financially support the coral rehabilitation program of the BFI. Suppliers of beach cleaning machines sent their quotations to the BFI and the same has been forwarded to the office of the Governor, as he intends to provide these machines for the island. The BFI Board is confident that the governor will push for immediate solutions to these island concerns to protect the tourism industry of Boracay. A copy of the minutes of the meeting is available with the BFI Secretariat.
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BORACAY SUN
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LIFE & LEISURE
THE BORACAY CHECKLIST
7 Reasons You Should Check Out Bulabog Beach This Amihan Season
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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of Levantin, the steaks of 7 Stones or the Morocan Chicken of Happy Home? Check them out and you’ll understand why Bulabog folks hardly leave Bulabog beach.
by Denise Tolentino AMIHAN is almost here. It’s basically the season when the wind shifts to Boracay’s east side and turns Bulabog Beach into a world-famous windsurfing and kiteboarding spot. But even when you’re not into these sports, you may find something that interests you. For those unfamiliar with it, Bulabog Beach runs parallel to White Beach. It has eluded most tourists because it developed much later than its front beach counterpart. It was in the early 80s when word got around to the international community of windsurfers of an island paradise with good wind and clear, blue waters.
even more interested, Bulabog Beach happens to be one of the best places to learn kiteboarding or windsurfing. Its clear, shallow and warm water is very beginner-friendly.
2. Photo Ops! C’mon, we know you’re snapping every bit of your vacation with your phone/tablet or camera anyway. Drop by Bulabog and make your gallery happy. Imagine the colorful kites as background, the wind for that perfect billowing dress/scarf/sarong shot and you’ve got a videoke-type - I mean, magazine type shot in the bag.
It wasn’t until early 2000 when hotels and inns started popping along its shores but you’re probably staring at the photo now and aren’t interested in this beach’s history so on to the list then! 3. Admire the Sculptures. It’s art! Toned bodies beautifully sculpted by sports. Need we say more?
1. The Wonderful World of Wind Sports. When the multi-colored kites and sails are in the water and when the riders start jumping and doing crazy board tricks, it can be pretty entertaining. Kind of like a fluorescent circus on water. And if the sight of them gets you
4. Speaking of 6-pack abs, Bulabog also happens to be a spot for mouth-watering, delicious eats. Heard of the homemade pizza of Timog, the Romanian Buffet
probably tell you. And when you get there, make sure to join the crowd, dance and party until...
5. Alternative Activities - This side hosts a yearly crowd of adrenalinepumped and party-loving folks so you can expect there’s always some sort of activity going on to keep everyone entertained. From The Lazy Dog Bed and Breakfast’s Movie Nights to Foosball Nights at Hangin Kite Center or barbecues at Freestyle Kiteboarding, take your pick, join the fun and make some new friends! 6. Moon Madness. The biggest monthly parties happen in Bulabog. These are the Full Moon and Black Moon parties and they are packed, wild and insanely fun. If you know about these parties, count yourself lucky since it’s held in a Top Secret Facility. If you want to know, be nice to a local and they’ll
7. The Sunrise. So everyone who’s been to the island has a photo of the lovely sunset. But you, you can be more kickass with a sunrise photo. Seriously, we have sunrises so beautiful it could give the sunsets a run for its money, mostly only drunk or partied out people get to see it. Bonus points if you’re one of them and get a decent shot anyway! High-five! *Photo Credit: Denise Tolentino and Hangin Kite Resort Facebook
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BoracaySUN Sun BORACAY
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LEISURE police GUIDE desk
lifestyle & leisure LIFE & LEISURE continued from page 1
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| july2014 2014 | SEPTEMBER
expectations, teaching a combination of than traditional yoga. It was then to breathe in theTurkish, present and moment, which destroy appliances power Arabian, Egyptian, Tribalandfollowed by a few ballet and warm-up to plan for a better future. It also fluctuations that may result in electric belly dancing with a feline and graceful drills, some improvisational dancing, provides a chance to bond using with aonethen, meterfinally, discrepancies; cases dancing, of water manner, as well as sometimes choreographed another in the privacy of their homes contamination and coral deterioration; By Rica Velasco live percussionist and dub-step music, brilliantly comprised of high-energy and inat turn localallowed hangouts, to freely toast tohip-hop and a movements higher crimeand ratea brought about which us toand dance wide range By PO3 Christopher Del Rosario the unspoken understanding of island by the leaner season, not to mention and passionately, really letting loose and of dance styles like breaking, poppingthe tive in Reducing Opportunity To any life. For business owners, it is the rise in burglary. Mendoza, PCR PNCO (BTAC) getting into the flow of the music. and locking, fused with some jazz-funk Elements in Committing crime Tech- season for downsizing their labor force, dance styles and time, a littlethebit Aklan of house. A As of press Electric THE HABAGAT season, also referred to niques”. a time forleast, renovations, maintenance Last but not Contemporary Dance.andveritable melting pot of dance. Cooperative Inc. could not comment on as the low season in the Island of Boracay andJessamine for taking a rewarding The new sticker project dubbed as “Valu-Therepairs, instructor, Joy, self-taught the power situation and said they were usually starts during the month of June abroad. in hip-hop as well After attending these classes, the able Tips” is in partnership with Boracayandholiday choreographed still awaiting announcements from the where the summer officially ends and the Magazine and TripToBoracay.com. Theas On me feel euphoric being formally trained in modernalsoendorphin a more serious note, Habagat National rush Powermade Corporation. rainy season and classes begin. said sticker campaign project contains tipsdance, exuded enthusiasm, exposes issuesenergy such and as severe floodingand, surprisingly, even more energetic, While island’s For those who work and subsist in this or reminders for tourists in order to avoidheralllove withthea few achesestablishments and pains that and I teachingandshining throughduealbeit overfor alleyways main streets authorities are taking proper measures to world-renowned tourist destination, low being a victim of crime. It also containsas to the garbage; class started off with Gyrokenisis stagnant flood water thatknow are worth it for the greater good these issues, season means many things. It is an indica- the Boracay PNP Hotline number 166 andexercises, being healthy andeach fit. one Theshould Vessel pracis yoga-typegrounds movementforof ease become a fluid breeding tice mindfulness and proactivity to tion that the number of tourists (both local information on what to do in case of anysystem where postures are harmoniously dengue-carrying insects; road traffic andnow coming out with yet more classes, ensure one’s safety and health, throughand foreign nationals) start to decrease, emergency. connected through the use ofof breathing a higher incidence vehicularlike pole dancing, jazz, hip-hop, and out the season. bringing low revenues for resorts, hotels, I can’t wait! exercises, and anwhich appearin anddrowning feel ballet. accidents; increase Crime Prevention Programs restaurants and bars. Alsothat affected are the like dancing or power swimming rather First up for me was Zumba, the more THERE are many things I love incidences; sudden interruptions BORACAY in partnership of many, especially craze currently PNP sweeping through thewith aboutlivelihoods living here, the most obvious onesthose various NGOs and government agencies patrol and other police services within depend presence Philippines. Its routines inspired from beingwho the mainly sun, sand, surf, on andtourist the sense tookdances the leadsuch in organizing several Crime their AOR based on the established ERRATUM where they However, can serveI as as the merengue, of community. alsocommissioners, love to Latin Prevention aimedand to reduce tourregardless guides, drivers, boatmen, cumbia Programs, and reggaeton, which the time-bound activities. This initiative aimeddance, of whether I’m masseurs any salsa, crimeof inpop, the jazz, area and if not to prevent primarily petty crimes and We apologize for the oversight in the more.What I’ve always felt can occurrence also be a of fusion goodand at ita lot or not. totallyamong eradicating them.moves. Some Iofwasthese projects that the police are everywhere at June 2014 issue “The Environmental hip-hop other dance was Itmissing was heavy some rains, sort flooded of simple also brings streets, programs and learning have been anytime. Fee” article. The statement “Due to the excited about already taking exist part and groupdevastating dance and exercisehuge classes for and typhoons, waves practiced for years.the Butenigmatic to give and a twist increasing demand for environmental under Gio Plameran, thosestrong who,winds like that me,trigger yearnhotels to and learnother Duty Shift Scheme (80:20) Modified was and to add some spice towho theseteaches programs, conservation with the influx of tourists larger-than-life personality different types of dancing, something designed to ensure the availability of establishments to put wind breakers and BTAC had given them names. coming in, the local government imposthis class, and, sure enough, his sessions which is also a great way to get fit adequate personnel to perform basic police sand bags along White Beach to protect es a 100 percent increase, now charging proved to be full of energy, laughter, and them exercise while doing something P.R.O.T.E.C.T. or Police initiative in functions. The 80:20 scheme is being from sand storms and erosion. Php100 for each incoming and outgoing and Reducing fun, as well as being a tough, highenjoyable that you can let loose with. Opportunity To any Elements in implemented in BTAC with 80% of its Boracay tourist” should have been “the Habagat or the southwest monsoon also energy, and stylish workout to boot. Committing crime Techniques is initiated personnel on duty and 20% off duty local government imposes a Php75 for the relocation boat mooring Life results all of ainsudden got moreofinteresting to make the hotline numbers available during weekdays and 100% on duty each incoming and outgoing Boracay White Beachtheir (Stations 1 and Nextanywhere up, and Belly Dancing, which whenareas Thefrom Vessel started unique by means of transportation during weekends because of the peculiar tourist.” According to our writer Jun to classes, Bulabog starting Beach, atboat and 3) funky 7pm,trips in in I’veonalways aspired to learn as I’ve the island, for immediate calls during security requirements of the island. Ariolo N.classes Aguirre, environmental Jetty to Portthe are transferred Tabon orderCaticlan to cater residents to who always loved it’s sensuality and its Regular arethe being offered at fee emergency cases that contribute to faster Through this scheme, personnel are maxiis Php75 and not Php100 (which is whiletheboat Cagban Port are workPort during day,trips andin also offering exotic nature. The instructor, Bhairavi PHP 300.00 per class for Residents, police assistance. Project PROTECT is the mized for crime prevention efforts and actually the400.00 terminal fee). It was relocated‘donation-based’ to Tambisaan Port. Theforisland community classes Nikhiltantra, known in Boracay mostly and PHP for Tourists. A an other name for the Sticker Campaign crime solution through prompt police honest mistake oncosts his PHP part. 2,500.00 and all funds, water activities thosehopping withouttours sufficient perfect are for Project her tantricin yoga classes, learned belly 10-class package partnership with Sandugo response. fromwant WhitetoBeach to Bulafor also all relocated those who improve dancing in 2011 through which is consumable for any kind Sandals-Boracay, Boracay self-teaching Land Transport P.N.P.A. or Panatag Na Po Ako Corner of In class the May Boracay Beach. and health through the and incessant practice until her passion theirbog lifestyle and is2014 goodissue for 3“The months. Multi Purpose Cooperative and ECPAT was conceptualized to eliminate the second Party Trail” sidebar on party cruises, we became intrinsic. She exceeded my wonderful medium of dance. In the previous years and based on the Philippines. element of the crime triangle, which is featured the Boracay Booty Boat and reports received by Boracay PNP, the P.A.T.R.O.L. or Personnel Accounting and opportunity. Records show that 52% of the Mellow Yellow Sunset Cruise. It reported robbery incidents, theft, Tactical deployment Report On Line to theft incidents transpire at the front beach, was brought to our attention by Boracay “akyat-bahay” and other similar incidents duty is the regular conduct of daily work when victims leave their valuables Island Chief Operations Officer Glenn increased and it transpired mostly in the direction formation for accounting, spiritual unattended. The “Pulis Tagabantay Sacapaño that they do not have licenses Bulabog Beach area. The increase in these guidance, PICE (Police Information and Program” aims to strengthen the efficiency to operate with the Local Government crimes against people’s lives and property Continuing Education), briefing, command and capability of the Tourist Assistance of Malay. greatly affect the peace and order situation guidance and debriefing prior to their Desks (TADs) by putting compartment on the island thereby bringing negative respective detailed area on foot patrol type lockers in every TAD located within In the June 2014 issue “Romantic impressions to the business and the the front beach. Lockers will be placed in Escapes” article, we apologize for daily and during evening shift. tourism industries. every TAD where tourists can deposit their misspelling Balinghai Beach Resort. To combat this problem before the start of T.S.A.P.A or Time-bound Sustained Area belongings. The Panatag Na Po Ako Their email address is low season, Boracay PNP under its Police Patrol Activity has established seven TourCorner is soon to be implemented as soon balinghai@hotmail.com and their Community Relations Section recently ist Assistance Desks to maintain police as the budget is collected from partner website is www.balinghai.com. launched its new Sticker Campaign Project visibility at the front beach area wherein agencies. or the project P.R.O.T.E.C.T “Police initia- the detailed personnel conducts a foot
Vessel of Mandala Spa The Habagat Season
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ESCAPE - OFF
THE TOURIST TRAIL
The River Wild – Nabaoy River By Kate Hammaren If you take the 10-minute ferry from Boracay, upon arrival at either Tabon or Caticlan, careful negotiations with the tricycle drivers will get you a ride to the river and back, with the driver as your guide into the jungle. Handy, since once you reach the start-point of the trek, being off the regular tourist trail means there isn’t a lot in the way of return transport or guidance along the route through the forest.
BORACAY is abundant in its offerings of all things watersports and it’s no wonder - the cerulean sea surrounding our island paradise is the perfect place to cool down while indulging in some high-octane aquatic activities. But there’s something else for those who want adventures away from the waves; a well-kept secret in the form of a secluded riverside spot... Tucked away in the cool leafy-green jungles of Panay, just a short hop and a skip from Boracay, Barangay Nabaoy’s cool, crystal-clear pools are the perfect antidote for those who crave something a little more ‘off the beaten track’. Away from the hustle and bustle, you can make a day trip of it with sailing and a picnic, or just head over for a couple of hours on the ferry.
Negotiations complete, jump into the tricycle and away you go, then twenty minutes later the road turns off down a rocky single track, and you whiz past gorgeous green paddy fields, getting glimpses of rural homesteads, and then you really start to feel like the adventure into the wilds is beginning... The 20-minute walk to the river is along an easy, flat, winding jungle path and is best done in flip-flops as you have to cross four cool, shallow rivers. The sound of the wind in the green-oh-sogreen palms, the rush of the ever-flowing water and the rhythmic ‘squelch-squelch’ of your footwear quickly puts you into a state of calm, and before you know it you’re at your destination. A beautiful, winding, U-shaped river appears before you, glistening in the slanting sunshine. A dark-green pool lazily lying under the ferns is in one corner, just begging you to break its still waters after your efforts in the heat - a little rocky ledge above it invites you to throw yourself in. A small bamboo
cabana with benches and a table perches on higher ground under the shade of the palms overlooking the river, and is the perfect place to crack open your well-deserved ice-cold beers and tuck into your picnic in the cool comfort of the shade. It’s up to you how long you stay at Nabaoy - there are no crowds, facilities, or fees once you’re there - and you might as well find yourself hard-pushed to leave. It’s the perfect day out for
families or groups of friends seeking time with Mother Nature as the hostess... but just remember, preserve this place of natural beauty: take only pictures and leave only footprints. Must-takes: Water, food (if staying a while), sun cream, insect repellent, camera, money in a waterproof pouch, swimwear, flip-flops. Leave behind: All your worries.
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BORACAY SUN
LIFE & LEISURE
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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TRAVEL BLOG
Satisfying my Wanderlust – Working on a Cruise Ship by Rica Velasco
LONG before I lived on Boracay, the one thing I always desired to do was travel, but I didn’t have the financial means to do so. Then a situation presented itself to me - I could work on a cruise ship and get paid to do what I loved to do the most. The first cruise ship I worked at was the Ocean Village. This ship’s slogan was ‘The Cruise for People Who Don’t Do Cruises’ as it targeted a younger crowd. Of course the highlight of it all was the traveling. I got to see places that I never dreamed of seeing, as the Ocean Village sailed in the Mediterranean and went to Spain, Italy, France, and Tunisia in North Africa. Naples was one of the high points for me, since seeing the city where pizza originated is quite significant. Whilst there I visited Pompeii, where I was left in awe with the history and preservation of the lost city, and I was also swept away by the beauty of the island of Capri and the village of Anna Capri. I had a very memorable funicular ride and chair lift up to the highest point of Capri, which brought me above the clouds and to a place which exhibited a breathtaking view that is not easily forgotten. In Rome, a place so rich in culture and history, St. Peter’s Basilica and especially the Sistine Chapel gave me chills, and to be in a room gaping at the masterpiece of Michelangelo was monumental. Having sangria at Las Ramblas and seeing Antonio Gaudi’s work all around the city, including La Sagrada Familia, is a must-do in
Barcelona. In Monte Carlo, it was surreal to roam the streets of the Formula One Grand Prix race track, as well as to see the extravagant Casino and Opera House, and the majestic Prince’s Palace of Monaco. The Leaning Tower of Pisa was an item that I was able to tick off my bucket list. I also fell in love with the picturesque and charming ports of Santa Margherita in Italy, and Ciutadela in Menorca, Spain. The second cruise ship that I worked at was called Zaandam, under Holland America Lines, which catered to a more elderly clientele. This cruise ship brought me to Florida, the Bahamas, Aruba, Curacao, Panama Canal, Costa Rica, Seattle, Alaska, Puerto Rica, Canada, San Diego, and several places in Hawaii, as well as Mexico.
As one who enjoys the heat and comes from a tropical country, I did not think that I would enjoy Alaska, but I was most definitely wrong. This state had so much to offer in terms of nature, sightseeing and activities – hiking, whale watching, viewing Glacier Bay from the ship, or kayaking by Mendenhall Glacier, dog sledding, and driving a go-kart through the Alaskan wilderness, just to name a few.
Mexico is full of beautiful beaches that have such a festive vibe, and having the obligatory margaritas and guacamole just adds to the authenticity, but the absolute highlight of my time working on cruise ships was bungee jumping in Acapulco. I have a paralyzing fear of heights, so this is the one feat that I thought I could never achieve. It was the most incredible rush when I did it, topped off by having the ocean and beautiful shoreline as the backdrop. Another milestone for me was getting to see Lover’s Beach and El Arco de Cabo San Lucas. Jet skiing in Mexico is also a great way to see the coastline and bask in the glorious scenery. Hawaii is everything it’s cracked up to be and more. Although Honolulu is best known for Waikiki Beach, I was able to venture out to other gorgeous beaches in Oahu, of which there are so many.My favorites being Lanakai Beach and Kailua Beach. Witnessing the red lava flow freely at Kilauea Volcano in Kona at night from the ship is one of the most unforgettable experiences I have ever had. But the island I am most fond of in Hawaii is Maui, for its quaint waterfront restaurants and beautiful Lahaina Beach.
Other highlights worth mentioning: crossing the Panama Canal, zip lining through a lush forest in Costa Rica, seeing the colorful and charming buildings in Curacao, visiting the elaborate and magical Butchart Gardens at night in Victoria, spending time in the animated and dynamic Pike Place Market in Seattle.
Needless to say, I am very lucky to have seen some of the most beautiful and historical places around the world, all whilst on the job. I share my story to inspire and encourage people to venture out and explore, there is so much to see and learn about out there. I know that my adventures are not nearly done yet, and I look forward to adding even more escapades and experiences from traveling.
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BORACAY SUN
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PEOPLE
Follow this young woman’s adventures and misadventures on her quest for true love in Boracay, who wishes to remain simply, the Lonely Island Girl. I was sitting in the passenger’s seat of his car on a cold rainy night, the air conditioning was on but I was snug. We were stuck in traffic while I was listening to the sound of the rain and enjoying his scent that filled the car. I could only see a faint glow from the tail lights of the car in front of us through tiny splashes made by the rain on the windshield, everything in that moment was oddly comfortable. He says the most wonderful things to me, things that are too good to even be real, things that I hear only said to beautiful women in a romcom, things that he insists he feels and are true. Over the sound of wipers that were moving left from right I said, “I’m scared I’m just your Rosaline”. She’s the girl Romeo was head over heels in love with before he beheld “true beauty”, his Juliet. “You don’t give yourself enough credit”, he told me and squeezed my hand. I wake up with a start, the sun is setting and I am waking up to a golden orange sky with no sound but the crashing waves. No rain here, no cars, just palm trees and white sand. Granted I recently found out he married the woman he dated after me only a year from our break up but I don’t actually care, I’m glad I didn’t end up married to him - to me I dodged a freaking bazooka. Had I married him, I would never have
come back to live in Boracay. Although I claim to be lonely, I’m happier now with my salty hair and sandy toes in this 7 kilometer Neverland. So why did I just dream of that? The timing is impeccable. I am still reeling from coming home to ten thousand printed copies of Backpacker Dan’s reply. It’s like he promised to come back to me ten thousand times but he hasn’t called, he hasn’t written anything apart from the article that was published or has he? I hope Little Birdie isn’t keeping things from me. Don’t you play with my heart now, it is already in shambles. I guess I will have to wait until he comes back, what am I going to do until then? I can’t stop thinking about it. My dear sister moon is right, I should enjoy my life. I shouldn’t over think things, it’s so exhausting and this whole being sober thing just doesn’t help. I should start drinking again, the season is starting anyway. I’ll stop for the days I’ll be in the water because right now the fact that someone gave me ten thousand promises (HAHA Backstreet Boys reference) is freaking me out and all I can think of is: I am so Rosalined. So here’s to us Rosalines of the world. Cheers!
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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BORACAY SUN
PEOPLE
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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BORACAY PEOPLE
DJILA, anything but Lazy! By Pauline Astronaut Djila Winebrenner and her dog Whiskey must be one of the most famous duets, on Boracay Island. One can see them on their early morning walks in Bulabog Beach, Djila throwing a ball and Whiskey, happily fetching it. When a ball is involved, the Lazy Dog Bed & Breakfast is not indolent anymore! Meet Djila, an inspirational figure, on many levels.
So people actually sit together and get to talk to each others” , she says.
ALREADY barefooted and wearing boardshorts when she first visited the Island with some friends back in 1999, Djila knew her life won’t be a corporate one. New at diving, she quickly met Louis Claver who became her friend and dive buddy for years. [NOTE : Too much info that they lost touch] In 2004, Djila came back and stayed at Jony’s. Next door was the new Scuba diving school of Louis. Djila was already a dive instructor and decided to move to the Island. She settled in on Christmas Eve of 2004 and joined Louis and Tantan Rosal in establishing Boracay Scuba : “I had no means but I had will“, she recalls. In 2007, their lease was over. They were looking for a new location but someone offered to buy their company. “Louis and Tantan were already kiteboarding, so we sold our business and we all moved to the other side, Bulabog beach“, Djila remembers. While her former partners were busy kiteboarding, the opportunity came to develop Lazy Dog into a small hotel. “It was written I had to go for it. A lot of people were interested and had more means but I got it “, Djila smiles, remembering how the Universe was aligned. Ian Bautista, an architect and one of her new partners in the new venture, already built the beautiful tree
house and the first four rooms, in the garden. Ian, Djila and her sister Cheska Winebrenner were a complete team. Quickly, the three partners added four more rooms on the second floor. There was no proper restaurant yet and the customers were mostly friends, looking for a room to rent. The tone was set: it was destined to be a place where friends and family would feel at home. “I’m really blessed that I’m still here. When I arrived, I had nothing in the bank account and just my backpack. The people I met here are amazing”, she states, assuring she is not going anywhere. As things always happen for a reason, Ian and Djila were both the happy companions of two dogs, a male and a female. The name stood to reason. All three partners shared the same environmental outlook on how they wanted the bed & breakfast to become. They used native materials as much as they could and created a peaceful garden around the “soul“ of the place: the beautiful tree, standing proudly at the center. They still need to keep up with the demand of the tourists who expect electricity and Internet on a 24/7 basis. If it was only up to Djila, she would keep the old Boracay vibe of the place strong: “I love when there are brownouts.
Now Djila is the only partner living in Boracay all-year-round. The past year was a renaissance for her. She spent years keeping to herself until she signed up for the Cohen program that taught her how to eat properly, with healthy portions. She has since, lost 80 pounds in a year and is now feeling brand new. Her mind sharpened, her energy was renewed. She now has the will to do everything. Proudly being a lesbian, she also feels it’s time to open Lazy Dog to more niche markets of nonconventional guests. Her target would be the LGBT (Lesbian Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) community, artists, hippies and creative minds. “I’d love to create a place where all of them can feel safe and be themselves. For them to feel as if they were visiting a
relative’s home”, Djila explains. The already famous rainbow flag is proudly flying above the tree house. “I’m adding some rainbow touches here and there”, she shows us the colorful shell curtain, hanging on the side of the “payag”, the native hut where one can sit on the cushions to enjoy a potent brew of Vietnamese coffee. Djila is not one who follows the mainstream. The Lazy Dog reflects her personality and anyone who knows her, can confirm this. Her marketing means are word-of-mouth and Internet. “We are the social media generation”, explains Djila, who is selling her lifestyle. If you have been to Lazy Dog at least once, to listen to the always perfectly chosen playlists or to savor one of their delicious dishes, you will understand the power of the place. The Lazy Dog makes you feel at home, chilled out and lazy in the best possible way.
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BORACAY SUN
PEOPLE
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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VISIONARIES
Noriel ‘Payat’ Herrera By Kindra Calonia
THE first thing you’ll notice are his round bulging eyes, framed by two almost comic eyebrows. Tall and thinly built, hence the nickname ‘Payat’ (Skinny), and with tattoo sleeves running down his arms, he walks around the island with his signature hat, baggy pants and anklets. You may think typical island local, but Noriel is far from your typical neighbor with awesome tattoos. Intrigued by his assemblage pieces, which you may find installed in venues such as Kasbah, T-Braz, Lazy Dog and BKR, I decided to meet him for a drink in Nice Place, where most of his works are exhibited. By the time I arrived Noriel was already frantically working with some toothpicks and left-over wine corks, immersed in his own world and vision, and I felt somewhat in awe to have been granted a tour into the realm of his discarded objects. Born in La Union, Noriel had quite a nomadic lifestyle, moving between Puerto Princesa, Laguna and Manila, before settling on Boracay seven years ago. Ever since he was a child, the art of breaking objects and mending them into something new has always attracted him. “I will never forget my first assemblage piece at the age of six”, he excitedly tells me with eyes travelling far beyond the past, “I took a pencil eraser and assembled it with a piece of string to give it a Mohawkstyle look, and stuck three beads on its face for the eyes and nose.”
Illegal Alien, April 2014
His works have evolved into much more intricate assemblage compositions, incorporating both the use of banal everyday objects, as well as more elaborate ones, such as camel nails or monkey jaw, and comic collages. Using recycled materials does not only demonstrate Noriel’s capability of making art out of anything, but it also shows his desire to remind his audience of our constant race to consumerism. “I grew up in Laguna, near Manila, which is one of the biggest industrial zones of the Philippines. My art is partly a fascination with old abandoned objects and partly a reaction towards too much consumerism. I like to open people’s minds, especially children’s, and expose the idea that everything in excess is literally too much. Also, I am not the kind of artist who likes to focus on one single material or a single style. I like the variety and experimentation that comes along by making assemblage pieces.’ Keeping his family a priority, Noriel took a seven-year hiatus from working on his art, during which he focused in making and fixing fixie and singlespeed bikes, as well as making jewelry which you may currently buy at T-Braz Restaurant (White Beach, Station 1). He is currently doing an apprenticeship at the kitchen of Nice Place. Ever since October 2013, Noriel has restarted experimenting and creating new assemblage works that play both on the macabre and the fantastic, as seen on the three mannequin installations respectively called Illegal Alien, Murder Doll, and Chucky Revival, exhibited on the 1st Floor of Nice Place. All three mannequins are fashioned in a grotesque style, juxtaposed against the playful array of toys (Barbie dolls, doll faces, cartoon-like characters) he inserts in his pieces, creating works of art that are at once ghoulish but with an element of childlike fantasy. “In creating the mannequins, I was very much influenced by what we called the Astig Era in the Philippines in the mid-90’s. Back then, I used to be in a band and worked a lot with masks and expressions. Some of my art works are created on the spot without much thought or planning, like this piece I am creating now (pointing at his wine cork/toothpick assemblage). Art does not only have to do with the mind and the hand, it is also with the soul. There are times when my spirit meets my mind and I need to create whatever has inspired me at that moment. Then, there are also times where I am inspired by my personal experiences and my art becomes almost therapeutic. I release all my negative thoughts when I create something and the outcome is a beautiful piece with positive energy. There is not one definition for art, it is wildly personal and plural.”
Murder Doll 1, April 2014
Mantradora (organizers), 2014 Mantradora (organizers1), 2014
Perhaps the use of Barbie Dolls for Murder Doll is not only a nostalgic reminder of Noriel’s earlier days, but also a subtle comment on the over-production of the toy - it claims over 100,000 collectors and it’s the largest selling doll with a million fans. It is interesting to examine Noriel’s work as he collects most of his trash by the shore during habagat season, or from restaurants and resorts who give away things and utensils not needed anymore. Other than being a commentary on waste, Noriel’s work is also an interesting exposition on how our consumer culture can be transformed into art that integrates human history with their everyday use. “People label my work ‘found-art’, ‘junkart’ or ‘assemblage-art’ – I just have a
natural fascination with old things. It’s nice to make functional art but it’s also hard as you need proper materials and engineering. Do you know the feeling you get when you go to a second hand store? It’s like you don’t care about the branding anymore, you just look at how well the clothes fit you. Well, that’s how I feel about junk. If you just look closely enough you will always find materials to suit your liking.” All of Noriel Herrera’s art works are for sale and he also accepts commission work. Lazy Dog Bed and BKR Boracay have already employed Noriel Herrera for commission work. If interested, please contact him at: noriel.herrera.5@ facebook.com.
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BORACAY SUN
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BEHIND THE SMILES
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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Boracay Sun sheds the spotlight on frontliners ABEGAIL’S first job was at Epic, after a few years of OJT on Boracay. She came from Capiz, where she studied Hospitality, and moved to the island to meet her family’s needs and earn a better salary. She’s now a Dining Captain Waitress and enjoys providing good service and making sure the guests are satisfied, and, even though some of her shifts are in the morning, she prefers to work at night.
Abegail Apruebo : Waitress – Epic
By Pauline Astronaut
Diniwid Gabuyo: Waiter – Spider House by Daniel Leemon
“There’s music and people are partying, it’s nice to see them enjoy the place”, she explains.
‘WEED’, as the affable and ever-jolly 27 year old Diniwid Gabuyo is nicknamed, is something of a rarity on this island… he actually grew up on Boracay, actually living in Diniwid itself. His parents came here from Bicol and he attended and finished Boracay High School, where the work ethic was instilled in him from an early age with him having to work in his free time in order to pay back some of his scholarship; he tended to the weeding (very apt) and cleaning of the basketball court at school, as well as engaging in a bit of door-to-door sales for his cleaning services. After graduating he got a job at the infamous Bom Bom Bar, working there for around six months in 2009 before
PAT, 24 yrs old, achieved a BS in Hotel & Restaurant Management in Manila, then decided to combine his career with his love for the beach and came to Boracay, where he’s been a resident for nearly two years now. He hopes to take a Masters in Marketing in the future.
Patrick Joseph A. Garcia:
Reservations – Discovery Shores By Kate Hammaren
How did you end up on Boracay? I’ve known about Discovery Shores since I lived in Manila, as I used to party at the Discovery Suites. I liked the way employees are encouraged to interact with each other, and how they’re treated, I think, in a more friendly way by management. Even the executives are approachable any time! I love the beach and the sea, so I realised that Discovery
LESTER is a confident guy from Mindoro. In order to support his family, he had to stop his BSBA in Management, and his best friend, who was working in Calypso as a bartender and was leaving to work abroad, thought of Lester to replace him at the bar of the famous dive resort. Ready to commit to a new adventure, Lester took a vocational course in bartending and flew to Boracay to start his new life.
Lester Andrew Carl Villanueva: Barman - Epic
By Pauline Astronaut
He never expected this island would be so different from everything he knew before. He recalls his first time seeing the Boracay nightlife, “I was actually shocked the first time I came here. I went out to party with my friend and
Abegail loves Boracay, but she needed some time to adapt to her new home. She experienced a culture shock when she first came here and saw everybody wearing bikinis all around the island. “There are so many different types of tourist here. The Koreans, for instance, were very surprising for me at first…”, she says, laughing while remembering her first days on Boracay. But she has learnt a lot from her years here, and she is now more open and has got used to all the differences between the different people visiting Boracay.
being sent to their ‘franchise’ sister bar in Puerto Princessa to do a stint, coming back six months later. The ever-enterprising Diniwid was soon back in the swing of things, this time employed to make those wonderful Hukah Shesha Pipes, although it wasn’t long before another bar came calling, this time the Boracay institution that is the Spider House, handily located in Diniwid where he still lives with his auntie (his parents having left for Manila last year for the sake of his younger brother was who taken seriously ill). Between the times of 2-10 pm you’ll find the inimitable Weed at Spider House, bouncing around from table to table, irreverent and cheeky and jovial, and before work you’ll probably find
Shores on Boracay was the only place I wanted to work. What does your job involve? I used to be in Guest Relations, but now, as Reservations Associate, I have more of a hands-on approach to every guest. I’m responsible for all communications with guests, from even before they arrive, and I also work with bookings too. I’ve always been fascinated with hotels and would like to own my own one day, so I’m working to learn everything I can, as well as save. What do you do when you’re not working? I love to swim in the sea, read, and watch films. And happy hour is the best!
discovered a lot of different things.” Enriched by his experience in Calypso, Lester applied for a bartending job in Epic, where he started to work on January 2012. His favorite shifts are at night, when everyone is out to party, although working as a bartender in Epic is really different frrom his previous experience. “In Calypso, you get to know the people, then you can treat them as your friends. But in Epic, it’s more busy. There are more people and more orders”, explains Lester, who still loves to entertain the tourists who come to the bar. Boracay Island became Lester’s paradise, and he’s well aware of the opportunity
The only downside is that she is badly missing her 9 month-old son, who is in Roxas City with her family. She’s sad she does not get to see him as much as she wants to, but she is thankful for the people around her who cheer her up everyday. “The team at Epic make me happy. They really became friends to me. The tourists and the beach also make me smile everyday. And, of course, knowing my son is happy”, Abegail says.
him at the beach playing volleyball with his friends. And if not working, after attending mass at around 4am (!), he does what any young man does… hangs out with his friends, drinking on the street Filipino-style. But there’s one more thing he does every night without fail – talk to his girlfriend, living in Hawaii, on the phone. Long distance calls to Hawaii are usually made around 1-3am and he never misses, and the goal is to save enough money to go to over there and pick up where they left off last time she was here. Most people grow up elsewhere and dream of coming and living on Boracay. Diniwid is doing it in reverse.
There’s no happy hour in Manila, but here you just roll from one to the next! I also love to travel, I visited the U.S. in May and I’m going to Japan soon. What’s your favourite thing about Boracay? The sea! I just love the sea. I love to go to the beach to relax. What’s your best memory of Boracay? Labor Day weekend last year was funny. All my friends came to the island, it was a huge party. The only thing was, this year I was working and they were on holiday... after a crazy night, some of my colleagues found me asleep, half-naked in DMall! Of course they took pictures and then, thankfully, they carried me home.
he has to live in such a beautiful place, “If people here don’t take care of the Island, they’ll ruin it. And we will loose the tourism that allow us all to live. In Boracay, I am saving more money by walking to work and enjoying simple things like skim boarding on my daysoff”, he says. Boracay has given more than just a job to Lester. “Here, I improved my English skills and I gained in confidence”, he explains. Lester seems contented, living on the beach and enjoying the simple life. But he doesn’t forget his family. “Even if they are far from me, my two daughters are my reason of smiling in life”.
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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Jack Bayona:
Barman - Crafty’s Rooftop Bar By Daniel Leemon
Paulet Celeste Marina: All-round Helper – Lazy Dog by Monique Tolentino
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JACK is a cool guy, laid back and easygoing, happy to say nothing but able to speak when the mood takes him, he’s man who’s locally well-known, and who knows people. Originally from Unidos Nabar on Panay, he left his home in 1994 and made his way to Manila, where opportunities for work are more plentiful. He spent the next eight years grinding a living by selling appliances, before coming back home and moving to Boracay and becoming a barman by trade, originally working in Dalisay, then Grand Vista Bar & Restaurant, before finally moving to his current post in 2008, where he’s happily ensconced himself serving the expat residents and tourists who come to sample the rooftop ambience and the famous curries. How does he compare this new, more congested Boracay, with the emptier one that existed when he first arrived? Unlike many westerners, he welcomes the changes.
“Before, it was very quiet, very native, and so a little bit boring. Slowly, slowly more tourists came and, now, there’s more people here so it’s more fun” he explains.
PAULET was born and raised in Antique and is the seventh of ten children. She left home to live with her aunt at the age of 9, where she says she learned the life skills that got her to survive on her own for a long time. She got a little taste of Boracay when she did an internship at the Pearl of the Pacific whilst finishing her college degree, but on her return, the position she longed to go back to was filled. She ended up working in Palomaria Café, now Lazy Dog, but when the turnover of management was happening, and the establishment had to close temporarily, Paulet decided to go back to her studies at Aklan State University, this time taking up a different course - BS Home Technology, majoring in Nutrition.
She came back to the island once again and got on the merry-go-round, working for establishments such as Blue Bayou, the Holy Kettle Corn, and even a short stint at Mandala Spa, but when the call came from Ian Bautista, one of the owners of Lazy Dog, she just couldn’t say no.
TONY, 25 year-old, Guest Services Associate. Originally from Manila, he achieved a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing Management in St. Louis University in Baguio, before moving to Boracay in May 2013.
I check out the guests, the afternoon shifts usually involve collating any information from the guests and preparing them for departure, maybe sorting out their incidentals, like room charges. On the graveyard shift, I prepare everything for my team for the following day, like the registration cards, keys, WiFi and bills, and double-check that every bill on the system’s correct.
How did you end up on Boracay? I came here for the first time in 2012 on a five-day guys’ trip. I swore I’d come back and ended up working here a year later!
Antonio Diaz de Rivera: Front Desk - Discovery Shores By Kate Hammaren
What does your job involve? Normally the roles are split into Front Desk Associate, Reservations Associate, or Guest Relations Associate, and my typical working day differs for each schedule. Front Desk Services has four schedules, and, typically, in the morning,
ROSE, 33 and a native of Aklan, had left home and was working as a Quality Assurance Technician at a bike factory in Manila when she got a call from her cousin’s friend who was on Boracay and hiring nannies at the time. She answered the call and was employed by the same family for a year, who then, before going back to Canada, recommended her to Lazy Dog owner Djila Winebrenner, and she’s been there ever since, working as a maid and a waitress for the last six years.
Rose Villanueva:
Housekeeping – Lazy Dog by Monique Tolentino
Whilst she considers being exposed to different kinds of people and different cultures one of the main perks of the job, she also has a few stories to share about the lack of respect sometimes shown by customers. She sees the way some people interact with their peers, how polite and
He has one daughter, aged 7, and one son, aged 15, who live with his parents in his hometown, and who he sees maybe once or twice a month, or whenever he gets the chance to go home. Working six days a week doesn’t leave much leisure time, but Jack gets his kicks from his biggest love; motorbikes. Whilst he plays billiards nearly every day, and being apparently pretty good at it, his real love is his Yamaha FZ 150 and the motorcycle club he belongs to. He was one of the earliest members of the Boracay Islanders Motorcycle Club, founded in 2009 and which he was President of for three years, and is now a prominent member of the newer Quick
She says that since working on the island, she hasn’t had one bad experience. She believes that everything that happens is all in your own head and how you take every situation, and that no situation can be a bad one unless you make it that way. When it comes to her job, her favorite part of it all is how she learned to multi-task, treating every challenge as a new opportunity to grow, and she is happy to take on any job wherever and whenever she’s needed.
Are you working to support your family back home or working to save? I’m now working to save. At first, I was working to spend as I’d just graduated! After a couple of months, I realised that in real life you have to save. What do you do when you’re not working? If I’m tired, I go home. If my friends
accommodating they can be with fellow guests and other tourists, but then they treat the staff in a completely different way. There is little she can do though, because the customer is always right, but she often feels like she’s not respected, not just as a worker but also as a human being. However, a gesture as small as saying a thank you every once in while really makes her day. Something this small, something that most people take for granted can affect her greatly and makes it all worthwhile in the end. And the good outweighs the bad. “My bosses are nice, the island is beautiful, the pay is good, and I’m close to my children (two boys, aged 5 and 4, who currently reside on the mainland and who she gets to see every three months or so
BORACAY SUN
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Force Motorcycle Club, same same but different. The idea is pretty simple, but given a philanthropic twist. They go out on runs, usually around Panay, ride all day, party at night in bars, the beach, or the streets in Filipino style, the staple diet of any good bike run, but then they also do a little bit more. Having collected the monthly dues and fees from the different members, they use them to good effect, working with different schools and helping out with buying and delivering all manner of things, from pencils, books, and notepads, to sacks of rice, something they also do with the local Ati population on Boracay. So, Jack, an affable and easy-going biker who works in a bar and does his bit for local charity. And pretty good at pool too.
She is now a mother of two sons, aged 5 and 3, and a 9 month old daughter, who she currently lives with and who are her main motivation for working hard. On her days off, she spends time tutoring her children and spending some quality time with her family. She lives by the words “poverty is not a hindrance to success” and strives everyday to make each waking moment a better one for her and her family. “You can make it on Boracay. You can easily earn money but be wise and spend it in the right way. It’s very expensive to live here but manageable as long as you stay smart about it. I love working here because I meet different people and I learn from their culture.” said Paulet.
want to go out, we go to Epic or Sur where you get your own cabana! I bring my phone and laptop, or have a little sleep. Before peak season, I worked out three times a week, but I haven’t been since January. I’ve been busy with a lot of guests, so I extend my time at work to make sure the guests are happy. What’s your favourite thing about Boracay? I love the people over here, they’re so genuine and honest. What’s your best memory of Boracay? When I arrived, my friends bought me dinner as it was my first birthday without my family. We went to Talipapa and bought two big tables-worth of food, it was amazing!
depending on financial circumstances). I wouldn’t be working here for six years if I did not love what I was doing. I am contented but I know that the day will come when I may want more from life. But for now I am happy. I see myself growing with the company because this is my home and my family as well. This is where I started. I was here when Lazy Dog only had four rooms and I saw it grow. Can you imagine? I treat this place like my own child. The feeling is different when you just work for the sake of working and if your heart is actually in it.” Any job is rewarding when done with passion, and Rose has passion to spare.
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BORACAY SUN
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EVENTS
E VENTS
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SEPTEMBER 2014
Patio Pacific Resort, Most Booked Property 2013
Booking.com Philippines holds Boracay Partners’ Night 2014 AS a kick-off event for the opening of the three-month seasonal office in Boracay, Booking.com Philippines hosted their 2nd Partners’ Night last August 8, 2014 at Crown Regency Resort and Convention Center, Station 2, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan. The tropicallyinspired event aimed to welcome hotel partners in a celebration of good business relationship and appreciation of top performing hotels The night’s program started with a video clip showing snapshots from 2013’s Partners’ Night and interviews with selected hotels talking about their partnership with Booking.com. This was followed shortly by a welcome message from Stephen Thresh, Regional Director - Asia Pacific. The highlight of the evening was the recognition and rewarding of the 20 Most Booked
Properties for 2013 out of 180 Booking. com accommodation partners in Boracay. Three special awards were also given to hotels that have the Best Availability, Best in Payment Behavior, and Best in Content. Ms. Weng Rivera, Area Manager – Philippines, proposed a toast thereafter for a successful business between Booking.com and Boracay properties. With more than 150 hotelier attendees, the event ended with partners enjoying unlimited drinks and good music. A team of three highly motivated Booking. com staff invite all accommodation providers to visit their seasonal office at Room M1, The English Bakery, Bulabog Road. They will be on the island until October 31, ready to paint the town blue.
Lingganay Boracay Hotel, Best in Availability
THE DISTRICT BORACAY OPENS NEW CONFERENCE FACILITY Red Coconut Hotel, Most Booked Property 2013
Two Season’s Boracay, Best in Content
WHEN it’s time to get down to business, with a little leisure on the side, no better destination comes to mind than Boracay where possibilities are endless and activities are countless. The District Boracay’s newly constructed conference facility will allow you take your business meetings to the next level. The conference room features a contemporary and minimalist style and is equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and a comfortable lounge area. It is capable of on-site dining services, and may be easily converted into two smaller function venues to accommodate intimate gatherings. Other banquet facilities at The District Boracay include an open-air events rof deck, and a prime beach area, perfect for themed diners or sunset cocktails. For inquires, please cal (02) 234.5917, (02) 234.9058 or email sales@thedistrictboracay. com. For more information about the resort, please visit our website www. thedistrictboracay.com or folow us on Facebok (facebok.com/TheDistrictBoracay), Twiter (@DistrictBoracay) and on Instagram (@thedistrictboracay).
Blue Bayou Bungalows, Best in Payment Behavior
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BORACAY SUN
EVENTS
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ISLAND HAPPENINGS
VENUE/HOST: KASBAH BORACAY
Welcome the ‘Ber months! By Monique Tolentino
Let’s bid the monsoon season a proper goodbye with these final Habagat highlights! THE Philippines must be the only country that starts the holiday season once SeptemBER kicks in. And okay, it may be a bit too early for everyone else around the world but it’s never too early to celebrate life with these island happenings as we approach the holiday season and catch the tail end of Habagat. Get ready for high season ladies and gents! For more updates, join us on Facebook and visit our website at www.boracaysun.com. Tell us about your upcoming events, two months in advance, by emailing editorial@boracaysun.com.
VENUE/ HOST: APLAYA BEACH BAR AND RESTAURANT WHAT’S HAPPENING: Every Day Aperitivo (11 to 1PM); Every Day
Sunset Sessions; Every Day Detox WHY GO: Aplaya offers breakfast, aperitivo, lunch and dinner. The menu consists of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Regular cocktails are available, but Aplaya’s signature drinks are a musttry! Come by bask in the beach vibes with some chill house, funk, house & live music at this beachfront chill-out spot. Every Day Aperitivo – one drink + one tapa for Php200 Every Day Sunset Sessions – happy hour from 4 to 8PM on selected drinks and beers Every Day Detox – Detox juices, food corner specials and cocktails MONDAYS – Wine club/ Little Italy alternating from week to week WEDNESDAYS – Ladies Night Out: Special treat for ladies with a 50% discount on all our pasta dishes and drinks from 5 to 10PM. Happy hour is also available for gentlemen until 8PM FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS – Life chill house vibes DJ from sunset to sundown depending on the week. SUNDAYS – Sunday brunch SPECIAL DISCOUNTS are available to locals & residents (10%) and senior citizens (20%) upon presentation of official ID. WHERE: Find them at the Boracay Beach Resort beachfront, between Station 1 and 2. VENUE/ HOST: AREA 51 TOP SECRET PARTY FACILITY WHAT’S HAPPENING: 6th Year Anniversary of Boracay’s Full Moon Party on September 11 and the 26th Black Moon Party on September 24 WHY GO: SEPTEMBER marks the 6th year of Boracay’s most awaited party! Get ready to drink, dance and party it up ‘til sunrise! This will be one night you wouldn’t want to miss but may or may not remember. Situated away from the party strip, AREA 51 ‘Top Secret Facility’ reinvents what it means to party in Boracay, with an underground vibe where free
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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Pole & Jazz) Avail the 10 Pass Class for Php3,500 good for 3 months WHERE: The Vessel, Mandala Spa & Villas, along Angol Road Station 3 Brgy. Manoc-Manoc. For Inquiries, contact: (+63 36) 288 5888 (+63 917) 506 4943 thevessel. msv@gmail.com Mandala Spa & Villas Reception (+63 36) 288 5858 reservations@mandalaspa. com Facebook: www.facebook.com thevesselmandala or visit the website for updated weekly schedule www.mandalaspa.com VENUE/HOST: TRUE YOGA
spirits are allowed to soar in a relaxed and unpretentious party atmosphere, reminiscent of the old Boracay, promising a unique clubbing experience. One has never really partied in Boracay until they step foot in AREA 51 with the distinctive island vibe and incredible music by resident DJs Erwin Edralin and Reo Mendoza – beloved by the locals as “the best DJs in the world,” who promise to take Boracay on an unforgettable journey on these special dates, and get a chance to party with Boracay’s friendly local aliens! WHERE: Lugutan Beach, South of Bulabog Beach. VENUE/ HOST: CUTIECOOL NAIL SALON
WHAT’S HAPPENING: Experience the eclectic mix of weekly activities and authentic Moroccan cuisine while enjoying the breath taking scenic view on one of the best spots on White Beach! WHY GO: TUESDAYS Arts Guild – 4pm onwards Flea Market – 5pm onwards WEDNESDAY Art Workshops for kids – 4pm to 6pm Flea Market – 5pm onwards THURSDAY Dancehall Sessions – Open class invitation for dancehall sessions with Anika Hatcho and DJ Tong 5pm to 10pm (off peak season) 5pm to 11pm (peak season) SUNDAY Art Workshops for kids – 4pm to 6pm Flea Market – 5pm onwards WHERE: Station One, White beach, Boracay, Balabag, Aklan, Philippines, (036) 288 4790 VENUE/HOST: THE VESSEL AT MANDALA SPA & VILLAS
WHAT’S HAPPENING: Treat yourself to the perfect place for relaxation and self-pampering during this crazy monsoon season open on Mondays to Saturdays. WHY GO: A cute, cool, comfy nail salon with the island’s most creative nail art designs. Enjoy their special promos for every day of the week as well as discounts for Boracay locals. WHERE: Plazoleta, right next to Juice Bar on Station 2 VENUE/ HOST: LEVANTIN WHAT’S HAPPENING: Romanian Buffet, Moonlight Party WHY GO: Beachfront live entertainment, body painting, vampire-inspired happy hour alongside a Romanian buffet, and buckets of fun! Romanian buffet (every Thursday) starts at 6:30PM onwards. Moonlight party on September 09 starts at 7:30PM onwards. WHERE: Beachfront of Bulabog at the back area near 7Stones Boracay Suites. For inquiries & reservations call (+63 36) 288 2763) or email reservations@ levantinboracay.com. Find them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/levantin. boracay.
WHAT’S HAPPENING: Yoga and Dance Classes Regular daily classes are at 930AM, 4PM, 530PM & 7PM WHY GO: Experience the magic of The Vessel, visit and join the island’s unconventional souls as they celebrate life with the life enhancing activities and events. Classes available are Yoga (Ashtanga, Shivananda, Vinyasa Flow, Anusara, Hatha, Kundalini & Pre-Natal Massage) & Dance (Zumba, Tae Bo,
WHAT’S HAPPENING: Daily Yoga classes at 9AM Offering Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa Flow & Anusara-inspired classes. Avail of the special Weekly Unlimited Pass (unlimited yoga for 7 days) for only Php1,500 and a Drop-in rate of Php400. Mats are provided. If you are an island resident or staying for at least 1 month, ask about their monthly rates. The same great, inspiring, well trained and seasoned yoga instructors of True Yoga on White beach now hold a weekly afternoon class every Wednesday at 4PM at The Vessel at Mandala Spa & Villas – an utterly amazing and space to practice and an awesome venue meet other soulful yoga practitioners. The same drop-in rate applies at Php400, with a special 25% discount for island residents. The classes vary between Vinyasa Flow, led Ashtanga and Anusara depending on the teacher for that week. WHERE: True Yoga is located at the 2/F of True Food Indian Restaurant, Station 2. The Vessel at Mandala Spa & Villas entrance is along Angol Road, Manoc-Manoc (behind Mandala Spa & Villas). For inquiries, call Nicole at (+63 917) 700 2292, (+63 918) 916 2252 or email nicolerasp@yahoo.com.
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IN ROOM
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ROOM REVIEWS Here we go with more reviews of some of the fantastic accommodations that can be found around the island and this time we’re going high brow, visiting a couple of places where, no matter the weather, you’d still be glad you made the journey…
7 STONES BORACAY SUITES
AMBASSADOR HOTEL
By Daniel Leemon
By Daniel Leemon
TUCKED away down one of the backstreets which lead to Bulabog Beach, the shaded path taking you to this beautiful oasis doesn’t quite prepare you for the luxuriant surroundings you walk into as you arrive at an open, curved courtyard which stretches down all the way to the sand. The restaurant in front of you has an open-planned layout, simple but tasteful tables and chairs, a nice stack of books to peruse and a fantastic menu, and you’re greeted in with a refreshing cold drink, a leis and a genuinely warm welcome. The arched design of the balconies flanking the rectangular quad give a nice flowing effect to the building and lead you down towards the curved swimming pool, an infinity end pouring into the kiddies pool, a nice little lawn area and the inviting beach a further few yards along with a few relaxing sun loungers and massage beds on the sand.
LOCATED at the far reaches of White Beach Station 1, away from the itinerant touristic hordes and occupying a vast tract of dazzling white beachfront, this is a palatial and beautiful hotel which leaves no luxury stone unturned. You’re greeted at the spacious and relaxed reception (which even has its own ATM) with a refreshing drink, a cold towel, and a simple leis, whilst the entry off the road belies the opulence of what awaits you, the rooms out of sight until you go over the brow of the pathway, which is flanked by an impressive fake rock wall, and you enter the beautiful open-planned complex. Manicured curved pockets of lawns are surrounded by the different rooms, fantastic white and pebbledash exteriors and thatched roofs with cozy balconies overlooking the communal pool. The restaurant, most of it on the sand itself, is high class but unpretentious, graceful but casual and informal, a laid back affair with the tables and woven fabric chairs dotted in and around the soaring regal palms, a shaded oasis during the day, a romantic ambience lingering at night to go along with the scrumptious food, including the best pizzas on Boracay, bar none. The rest of the beach area is scattered with comfy sun loungers and the location ensures a certain degree of exclusivity and privacy with not too many wondering tourists obstructing your views of the magnificent blue waters just beyond. There’s also a small but well-kitted out gym which comes with the added features of a pool table, table football, and air hockey, something else to do on those rainy Habagat days.
The rooms, which range from Php 10,000 - Php 35,000 and come in seven different standards from Superior to Executive Suite, all have a beautifully neat and crisp design, spacious and airy, a clean and uncluttered layout with simple but elegant furnishings and comfy sofas made for relaxing, but each room comes with distinctly unique furniture, same same but different, and sparse but chic décor with a couple of paintings and some modish objet d’arts adorning the shelves and side tables. The colors are of similar ilk, the walls in most of the suites brushed in light and neutral pastel shades but with the brilliant addition of a vibrantlycolored feature wall in each one. The bathrooms are sizeable and bright with walk-in showers and most come with a big jacuzzi, whilst every room has a vast balcony, all with ocean views and all with a degree of privacy due to the clever nature of the exterior design. And then you have the kitchens… due to the fact that some of these suites are hired long-term by Boracay residents, the kitchens are as comprehensive as any family home, just a hell of a lot more stylish; big, open-planned, fully equipped, oven, microwave, hobs, pots, pans, knives, bowls, glasses, plates, the whole kit and caboodle, perfect for families who want that special quality time, or groups who want to enjoy their meals away from the madding crowds. The whole place is warm and welcoming, glamorous and stylish but at the same time homely and soothing, both affluent and down-to-earth. The super-friendly staff only add to the serene comfort ambience that hangs in the air. A fantastic place, great location, perfect for groups or families. Amenities: AC / Hot Water / WiFi / Cable TV / Fridge / Microwave / Safety Deposit Box / Breakfast / Bike Rentals / Activities / Massage / Swimming Pool / Bar / Daily Cleaning Service / Laundry / Babysitting Service / Airport Transfer / Back-up Generator Tel: 036 288 1601 Mob: 0917 324 3789 Email: frontoffice@7stonesboracay.com Website: www.7stonesboracay.com
A couple of added extras are the line of buggies at your disposal to ferry you anywhere on the island you need to go, and the magnificent and lush velvet-themed function room, offering an alluring privacy with an exotic and intimate speakeasytype ambience. Just screams out ‘private party’. The rooms, varying from Php 8,500 - Php 49,500 and ranging from the Deluxe Room to the Presidential Suite, are stunning in their opulence, beautifully designed, vast and airy with huge queen-size beds, elegant, stylish, and luxuriant, unique furniture, leather sofas, side tables covered with patchwork leather artwork, voguish décor and tasteful ornaments, the white walls decorated with chic paintings with vibrant colors, every room with its own distinct but always lavish feel. The bathrooms, many of which have a jacuzzi, are just as impressive, all imperious marble and tile, walk-in showers, clear-glass basins and modish taps, whilst nearly all the balconies have some sort of ocean view beyond the swimming pool. A high class resort with all the fineries and exclusivity but none of the pretentiousness, a prime real estate location on the best part of White Beach, friendly and effusive staff, self-contained but close to the nighttime action strip, they all combine to create a wonderful escape from the mundane. Exquisite. Amenities: AC / Hot Water / WiFi / Cable TV / Fridge / Safety Deposit Box / Breakfast / Bike Rentals / Activities / Massage / Gym / Swimming Pool / Bar / Function Room / Daily Cleaning Service / Laundry / Babysitting Service / Airport Transfer / Back-up Generator Tel: 036 288 1541 Mob: 0922 812 6227 Email: info@ambassadorinparadise.com Website: www.ambassadorinparadise.com
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BORACAY SUN
HEALTH & WELLBEING
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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HEALTHY YOU After graduating from the University of the Philippines, “Doc Girlie” found herself in Boracay and has considered it home for the past 15 years, deeply committed to a love for learning and in ensuring and providing the best health care possible for its residents and tourists, operating Metropolitan Doctors Clinics and Laboratory.
Nothing But the Truth About... HANDWASHING By Maria Cristina Teotico, MD VIRUSES, bacteria, fungi, cough, colds, diarrhea, measles, pneumonia...a great majority of these infections can be prevented through basic and simple handwashing. Because there are so many bugs out there, we thought it best to talk to you about one of the simplest, easiest and most reliable means of protecting yourself...handwashing. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) ,handwashing is like a “do-it-yourself” vaccine—it involves five simple and effective steps you can take to reduce the spread of illness so you can stay healthy. Regular handwashing, particularly before and after certain activities, is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. Good hand washing is the first line of defense against the spread of many illnesses, from the common cold to more serious illnesses such as meningitis, bronchiolitis, influenza, hepatitis A, and most types of infectious diarrhea. Germs can be transmitted many ways, including: • • • •
Touching dirty hands Changing dirty diapers Through contaminated water and food Through droplets released during a cough or a sneeze • Via contaminated surfaces • Through contact with a sick person’s body fluids As you touch people, surfaces and objects throughout the day, you accumulate these on your hands. In turn, you can infect yourself with these germs by touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Although it’s impossible to keep your hands germfree, washing your hands frequently can help limit the transfer of bacteria, viruses and other microbes. When kids come into contact with germs,
• After being outside (playing, gardening, walking the dog, touching garbage) • In addition, wash your hands whenever they look dirty. What is the right way to wash your hands? they can unknowingly become infected simply by touching their eyes, nose, or mouth. And once they’re infected, it’s usually just a matter of time before the whole family comes down with the same illness. Clean hands can stop germs from spreading from one person to another and throughout an entire community. Teaching people about handwashing in their community • Reduces the number of people who get sick with diarrhea y 31% • Reduces diarrheal illness in people with weakened immune systems by 58% • Reduces respiratory illnesses like colds in the general population by 21%. That is why, everyone, young and old, should know how important it is to handwash. This simple habit, once practiced, can prevent up to 85% of illnesses. When should you wash your hands? • Before, during, and after preparing food • Before eating food • Before and after caring for someone who is sick • Before and after treating a cut or wound • After using the toilet • After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet • After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing • After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers, which don’t require water, are an acceptable alternative when soap and water aren’t available and can quickly reduce the number of microbes on hands in some situations, but know that sanitizers do not eliminate all types of germs.
Washing Hands Correctly Here’s how to scrub those germs away. Teach this routine to your kids — or better yet, wash your hands together often so they learn how important this good habit is:
Then follow these simple steps: • Apply enough of the product to the palm of your hand to wet your hands completely. • Rub your hands together, covering all surfaces, until your hands are dry.
• Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap. • Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. • Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice. • Rinse your hands well under clean, running water. • Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them. • If possible, use your towel to turn off the faucet.
Antimicrobial wipes or towelettes are another effective option. Again, look for a product that contains a high percentage of alcohol. If your hands are visibly dirty, wash with soap and water.
Keep in mind that antibacterial soap is no more effective at killing germs than is regular soap. Using antibacterial soap may even lead to the development of bacteria that are resistant to the product’s antimicrobial agents — making it harder to kill these germs in the future.
About age of disease killers world.
What should you do if you don’t have soap and clean, running water? Washing hands with soap and water is the best way to reduce the number of microbes on them in most situations. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Hand sanitizers may not be as effective when hands are visibly dirty or greasy. For more information on handwashing, please visit CDC’s Handwashing website. (http://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/) Kids need clean hands, too Not washing hands harms children around the world 2.2 million children under the 5 die each year from diarrheal and pneumonia, the top two of young children around the
Handwashing with soap could protect about 1 out of every 3 young children who get sick with diarrhea and almost 1 out of 6 children with respiratory infections like pneumonia. Handwashing education and access to soap in schools can help improve attendance. Good handwashing early in life may help improve child development in some settings. CONTINUED ON PAGE 23
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Henna and You
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22 Some ideas
A simple way to stay healthy
hand washing a rule for everyone.
HELP children stay healthy by encouraging them to wash their hands properly and frequently. Wash your hands with your child to show him or her how it’s done. To prevent rushing, suggest washing hands for as long as it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice. You might place hand-washing reminders at your child’s eye level, such as a chart by the bathroom sink that can be marked every time your child washes his or her hands. If your child can’t reach the sink on his or her own, keep a step stool handy.
Hand-washing doesn’t take much time or effort, but it offers great rewards in terms of preventing illness. Adopting this simple habit can play a major role in protecting your health - make frequent
Don’t underestimate the power of hand washing! The few seconds you spend at the sink could save you trips to the doctor’s office.
By Marlo Schönenberger KNOW your body, if you have history of ANY allergic reactions, never opt for those attractive henna skin art, especially with black dye. Reactions may happen abruptly or it may even take years to show. Anyone who has an itching and blistering reaction must inform the artist, stop the tattooing and go to the nearest doctor for help. There are two types of henna: ‘neutral’ and ‘black’. Neutral henna poses limited health risks and has a red hue. Black henna (no such thing as black henna) is actually black dye and is widely used in dying hair and contains PPD (paraphenylenediamine). The health risks involved in black dye with PPD include severe allergic reactions, with blistering, intense itching, permanent scarring, and permanent chemical sensitivities, and can cause lifelong health deformities including liver toxicity and cancers. In the United States, FDA has not approved henna for skin application.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are OK for children and adolescents, too, especially when soap and water aren’t available. Remind your child to make sure the sanitizer completely dries before he or she touches anything. Store the container safely away after use. Hand-washing is especially important for children in child care settings. Young children cared for in groups outside the home are at greater risk of respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases, which can easily spread to family members and other contacts. Be sure your child care provider promotes frequent hand-washing or use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Ask whether the children are required to wash their hands several times a day — not just before meals. Note, too, whether diapering areas are cleaned after each use and whether eating and diapering areas are well separated.
It’s best to check the dye and see if it’s too black for the traditional reddish henna. Ask the artist what ingredients are used. A reputable tattoo artist will be able to tell you the exact ingredients (henna, sugar, lemon juice, and essential oils). If the artist doesn’t know the ingredients or mentions unfamiliar ingredients, find another artist. Artists should also know that henna is not allowed for children. All resorts will give you a warning that henna stains linens and may cost you some fees.
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SAFETY TIPS
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Road Safety - A Global
Marlo Schönenberger is a registered nurse who has been working with Red Cross Boracay for the past three years, promoting volunteerism and life-saving awareness for the island community. This section is devoted to life-changing and lifesaving survivor tips for all!
enhance the communication skills of the youth through the pioneering TED Talks, whilst ‘voluntourist’ Alec Reisner spent two weeks as a lifeguard and RCY advocate.
Volunteerism on Boracay Island Alive and Kicking
A lot of other volunteers from around the world have also shared their time and skills with us, most notably being the concerted rehabilitation and fundraising efforts during the aftermath of the super typhoon, helping to deliver relief to the neighboring towns in conjunction with partner agencies like the Philippine Mermaids Swimming Academy or the Rotary Club amongst others.
By Marlo Schönenberger VOLUNTEERISM is one of the highest form of service you can give, and Boracay Island is a premier destination for volunteers with its social, cultural, and environmental challenges, as well as, of course, with some fun R&R readily available at the end of a day’s work. PRC, the foremost humanitarian organization in the country, is mostly composed of volunteers who are normally mobilized during emergencies and disasters, whilst 80% of the Red Cross manpower are also volunteers, fulfilling an integral part of the humanitarian and altruistic principle of the organization. Anyone can be a volunteer, or ‘voluntourist’, providing a precious service for others, and, although the existence of true ‘altruism’ is debatable, volunteers play a vital role in the development of society by actively participating in several worthy causes of their preference, depending on geography or opportunity. This was recently manifested by the concerted and effective efforts for rehabilitation in the area after Yolanda hit when a bunch of ‘voluntourists’ came forward to lend a helping hand. Many training
workshops are provided by the Red Cross, ranging from First Aid or Basic Life Support, to Lifeguarding or Basic Disaster Management, and all adhere to international standards set by the organization. Volunteers are our lifeblood and it’s time for the Philippine Red Cross Boracay-Malay Chapter (PRCBMC) to acknowledge the assistance of some special ones. David RC Field, an Australian Volunteer sent by the Australian Red Cross (ARC), worked with the chapter as a Surf Lifesaving Development Officer from November 2011 to February 2013, helping to create and develop the culture of lifeguarding and beach management we see on Boracay today, whilst Jessica Murnane took up the mantle and continued his work from April 2013 to April 2014. Amy Yang, Youth Environmental Officer, spends her time on environmental and developmental activities with the Red Cross Youth (RCY) services, as well as, together with the RCY coordinators, devising developmental programs to
Finally, moving on to another aspect of the Red Cross - the practice of blood donation. Recent times have seen us achieving just short of the target of 1% of the population as safe blood donors as set by the Department of Health, the Philippine Red Cross, and the Philippine Blood Coordinating Council – attaining a respectable 0.8 % (4,560 donors out of a population of 556,781). To help reach the set target, a consistent campaign for blood donation is now being conducted through our local chapter. For assistance, you’ll find Red Cross First Aid stations posted at Station 1, 2, and 3, or you can call (+63 36) 288 2068 or Hotline 199. You may also email us at boracay@redcross.org.ph. And you can “Like” Red Cross Youth Boracay-Malay Chapter on Facebook for updates and reports on our activities.
Volunteerism is the highest form of service.
Commitment ON a national scale, according to the DOH, road accidents are listed in the “Top 5 Causes of Mortality”, and the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies pledged for a ‘Decade of Action for Road Safety’ from 2010 to 2020, with aims to reduce road crash injuries and fatalities, and to improve road safety measures and response. The IFRC has issued commitment cards for individuals to pledge to road safety.
Boracay Road Safety measures seems to be a ‘work-in-progress’ To be able to respond to accidents on Boracay, training programs by the Philippine Red Cross Boracay-Malay Chapter are available on FIRST AID and BASIC LIFE SUPPORT. Call (+63 36) 288 2068 for further details.
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GOURMET GUIDE 7th NOTE CAFÉ at 7 STONES by Monique Tolentino 7TH Note Café is one of the few front dining experience without the encounter on White Beach. Situated gem that not only offers one of the gluten-free menu.
restaurants on the island that offers a beach hustle and bustle and general noise you may right in the middle of Bulabog Beach is this best steaks on the island, but also an all new
7th Note Café hosts a Steak Night every Saturday which features 3 main dishes to choose from: The Tenderloin Steak or Crusted Pepper Steak, the 7th Note Carpetbagger steak and 2 sticks of Pork or Chicken Kebabs all served with your choice of a glass of wine or beer. They also have a pizza and pasta bar where you can have your orders customized and yes, even request for it to be gluten-free! This happens every Wednesday night from 7pm onwards. This quiet and tranquil environment is the perfect place for a romantic beachfront date while watching the superb moonrise of Bulabog Beach. The café offers great value for money and is an all-around wonderful dining experience that will guarantee you to come back all the time.
Carpetbagger Steak
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BORACAY SUN
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DESIRE
September Essentials By Samantha Bouffard THE end of Habagat is near and Amihan will be coming soon. Seasons are changing and the weather gets more fickle and hard to predict everyday, you can hardly just look at the sun to tell the time anymore though, it won’t be visible sometimes. For a good idea of what the weather will be like each day, visit boracayweatherstation.com, you’ll know when it’s time to put those pots out under the leaks, when to bring those rain boots or you know, when you can go kiting. Apart from rain boots and warm clothing that you will be needing more often than not, here are a few more things you will find handy this need this month. 1. Sunblock. Even when it’s cloudy or rainy you need to put on some sunblock to avoid skin cancer and sun spots when you’re older. I’ve also seen posts on social networks complaining of sunburn after a cloudy day outdoors, just because the sun isn’t shining doesn’t mean it’s not there. Nivea Invisible Sunblock is available at Budget Mart for PHP 620.00. 2. After sun gel. If you do get sunburnt, the after sun gel from Hawaiian Tropic will relieve this pain and prevents
your skin from peeling. Hawaiian Tropic after sun gel is available at Budget Mart starting at PHP 595.00. 3. Water resistant jackets.
These babies will keep you warm and dry when you’re going out for that much needed walk after a big dinner or for that stroll down Bulabog beach with your favorite pet. Buy a water resistant jacket and you won’t even think twice about going out in a drizzle. You can buy them at thenorthface.com for USD 90.00 and above or in E-Mall for other brands starting at PHP 5,500.00. 4. Sarong. I found a group of foreigners listening and gazing intently at someone demonstrating the ways you can wear a sarong, with a speaker alongside explaining in their language. It
was a scene much like the preflight safety procedures. When it was demonstrated that the sarong can be worn like a dress, the entire group went “aaaah” in unison. Aaaah yes, a sarong can be used several ways: to dry yourself after a swim when you’ve forgotten your towel, to lay on when you’re out getting a tan, to wear like a dress or a skirt on the rare warm days in the coming months or to snuggle up in if you get cold. Sarongs are available at Sarimanok in D’mall and at Emie’s Boutique by the main road at PHP 250.00 and PHP 380.00 respectively. 5. Sling bags. Shoulder bags are ideal to bring when you are going shopping or to work but when you’re out to party, sling bags will be more comfortable to bring and even dance in. They are big enough to put your phone, money and a few items of makeup in. These are available at the Basement by the main road across 24/7 for PHP 468.00. 6. Backpacks. If you want your hands free when moving around, walking or biking, a backpack might be right for you. Pretty and stylish ones are available at Crystal Shack for PHP 795.00 each. 7. DYI CANDLES. When it’s peak season for power outage (sometimes it’s as schizophrenic as the weather) the stores will run out of candles. Not to worry, you can make one yourself and it will last longer. Get a bottle or an unused cup. Put some stones in and
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some oil. You can use a tissue as your wick and voila. You have a candle that will last for days on end. 8. Rechargeable fan+light. These things are so useful, so bright and so cheap. You can get them on Lazada.com.ph and pay through credit card or in cash upon arrival, for as low as PHP 388.00. 9. Pretty things. It can be hard to find nice clothes on the island with reasonable prices, so the girls might want to check out this online shop called Dashdolls Manila. They upload new clothes almost every week and most of them are below PHP 500.00, buy 3 items and your shipping is free! Follow Dashdolls Manila on Facebook and Instagram @dashdollsmanila. 10. Boyfriend. Girlfriend. I was asking around to figure out what one will need in September and I suppose as a joke, a friend said a boyfriend. I thought, well you know some people might actually think the same! Technology can help you out, there are a couple of apps for your smart phone that you can download such as Tinder and Grindr. It’s completely free!
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K USINA AFFAIRS
Boracay chef Rea Anchores, one of the kitchen masters behind the well-loved Smoke Restaurant introduces Filipino cuisine 101 for foreigners, with insights on Filipino cuisine, enticing recipes and foodie insider tips on where to grab the best Filipino grub.
Leftover Delight By Rea Anchores SEPTEMBER is here and it is midway throughout what the island considers low season. This means that the island expects fewer visitors and therefore inspires most people to be frugal and spend less. We make ends meet, make do with what we have and Filipinos in general are very knowledgeable in being practical. One can notice the beauty of being thrift in how we cook our food and be able to recreate it to be tomorrow’s dish. We all know how we love rice and that it is the staple food in every Filipino household. Walk in any house before meal time and you would smell rice cooking. Any which way rice is prepared, whether using the rice cooker or the traditional rice on a clay pot with pandan leaves, the smell of cooked rice warms your belly and you are assured of a great meal. Since rice is very important to us, we have various ways of cooking it. It can be paired with savoury dish or can be cooked as dessert. Left over rice is not thrown away, but instead cooked as sinangag which is our version of garlic fried rice normally prepared for breakfast. Sinangag is a testament of Filipino’s ingenuity in subtle practicality and frugality. Normally sinangag is paired with whatever is left over from last night’s meal and often served with fried egg and piping hot barako coffee. Hence, the emergence of the popular all day and night breakfast term “tapsilog.” This is derived from the words tapa (beef jerky), sinangag (fried rice) and itlog (egg). Tapsilog for Filipinos is like an equivalent of Eggs Benedict for most westerners. This breakfast staple is very versatile that is inevitable to conjure variations of it. The most common would be the longsilog and tocilog. The fried rice and egg would be retained and instead of tapa, longanisa (sausage) or tocino (cured sweet meat) is served as protein. If one prefers fish then you can have the bangsilog (milkfish marinated in local vinaigrette) or dangsilog (danggit or dried rabbitfish popular in Cebu). Of course, because of the American influence in our country, canned goods like corned beef and spam and even hotdog and bacon became part of the Filipino diet. Consequently, we have cornsilog, hotsilog, and even spamsilog in our breakfast menu. Nowadays, nouveau restaurants are also serving lechon bits, ground angus beef, adobo flakes or tinapa (smoked fish) flakes paired with sinangag and egg. The island has numerous restaurants that serve this breakfast dish and one can even order it anytime of the day. Here are some of them: Station 1: King’s Cuisine, Boracay Kitchen, Maya’s Restaurant Station 2/Dmall: Damiana’s, Cafe del Sol, Lemon Cafe, Andok’s, Tapa King, Jasper’s, Smoke Resto Station 3/Angol: Sunny Side Cafe, Casa Pilar, Surfside Bulabog: LazyDog Bed and Breakfast, Nice Place World Food Art Cafe For this article, I am sharing my own tapsilog recipe and I hope you can try it at home and share with your loved ones and friends.
W ATER BABY By Pauline Astronaut “THE best thing one can do when it’s raining is to let it rain”, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. This is what we all did during the Monsoon season. Unfortunately, a lot of our little ones got sick from the rain and cold weather. As parents living on a small island, we always worry about our kid’s health and the options we have regarding the facilities we can access to. This is actually a factor that will help a lot of families to decide where to settle. In Boracay, the floods make it harder for parents with little ones to go around. Investing in a pair of boots and a rain coat might be useful so your children can walk safely without risking any infection from dirty water and so their head and clothes stay dry. Once the rain stops, the heat takes over, making it hard for the little ones not to catch a cold. Make sure you always have alchool spray to sanitize their hands and keep the virus away. Always bring a face towel or a sarong in your bag so if
your kids do get a little wet, you can dry them quickly. If you are out the whole afternoon, you can also bring an extra set of clothes to change them if needed. If ever they do get sick, Metropolitan Doctor Medical Clinic is open 24/7. Doctora Maria Cristina Teotico opened the clinic in October 1999 and explains : “The Pediatrician is not always on rotation but all our doctors are equipped to deal with pediatric emergencies. Plus, we have our pre-eminent pediatrician consultants from Manila (St Lukes, Makati Med and Philippine General Hospital) who we consult with for difficult cases”. MDMC has two branches in Boracay, in Ambulong and on the main road, opposite side of Budget Mart, right past Bulabog road. Doctora Noreen Esnino, is a certified pediatrician working for three months in Boracay LifePlus Diagnostic and Health Center. She started working in the new clinic at the beginning of august. You can contact them at (036) 288-2653 or go straight to Sinagpa in Balabag.
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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b. This dish is also best eaten with tomato, onion and mango relish.
TAPSILOG (serves 4-6) Beef Tapa Marinade:
Sinangag (Garlic Fried Rice)
1/2kl beef sirloin or tenderloin (thinly sliced) 1cup calamansi (lime juice) 1cup local vinegar 1 whole bulb of garlic (minced) 2tbsp. Salt 4tbsp. Soy sauce 2tbsp. Oyster sauce Ground black pepper 1tsbp sesame oil
(serves 4) Ingredients: 4-5 cups Left over rice or cold rice 4 cloves of garlic (crushed) 1tbsp vegetable or olive oil 1tsp salt 1tbsp butter Procedure:
Procedure: 1. Mix all ingredients and marinate for 2 hours or overnight. 2. On a pan let the beef simmer with a little bit of the marinade until the sauce almost dries out and then add cooking oil to fry the beef. 3. Once golden brown serve with galic fried rice and egg. Usually served with local vinegar with fresh garlic and chillies as dipping. Note: a. For the beef, I ask the butcher from the local meat shop to slice the beef sukiyaki style or if your butcher does not know that, you can ask them to slice it tapa style.
Tapsilog (photo courtesy of Lemoni Cafe)
1. Lightly knead or mash the rice to break away the clumps. Add salt to the rice while kneading. 2. Heat pan and add oil. Put in garlic and fry until almost golden brown. 3. Add the butter and the rice. Mix until the butter and garlic has meled into the rice. 4. Serve while hot. Note: a. Cold rice or left over rice is preferred because it has a drier texture. If you use warm steamed rice, the fried rice tends to be stickier and wet. b. You can vary your fried rice by adding curry powder or shrimp paste to give it a different flavour.
Tocilog (photo courtesy of Nice Place World Food)Art Cafe
Tinapa flakes on garlic fried rice and scrambled egg (photo courtesy of Lazy Dog Bed and Breakfast)
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BORACAY SUN
INDULGE
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SUNSET TO SUNDOWN
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SEPTEMBER 2014
Mango Cheese Cake
VILLA CAEMILLA by Monique Tolentino VILLA CAEMILLA is one of the newest resorts to pop up in Boracay Island. This charming boutique hotel not only offers world class accommodations but also the convenience of being just a few steps away from the busy center of White Beach as well as the satisfaction of being a few meters from the serenity of Angol Beach in Station 3. First up, let me introduce one of the most refreshing cocktails I’ve had in a long time, the Moonshine Lush. This drink is exclusively available in Villa Caemilla and is a whiskey-based cocktail with a touch of lemon juice, syrup and cucumber. This is the ideal pick-me-up drink on those days you just want to unwind and space out to a spectacular view of the beach.
Boracay Sliders U.S. Tenderloin
Deli Meats Delight
Chiken Binakol
When it comes to the dishes, not to be missed out on is the Chicken Binakol. A hearty serving of a traditional Filipino dish of a coconut-based chicken soup. The Deli Meats Delight gives a fantastic twist to the traditional pizza and the Boracay Sliders is the perfect after swimming snack to ease your hunger after coming out of the water. For dessert, the highlight of the course was the Dutch Apple Pie. I am not a dessert or sweets person, but one bite of this classic pastry made me slap the table with delight. This homemade dish came from a family recipe which was passed on all the way from Holland to give comfort and a sense of home
Dutch Apple Pie Ala Mode
to anyone who gets the chance to experience this wonderful dish. If it’s comfort and mouth-watering delights you’re after, then Villa Caemilla is a must try and I guarantee you will not be disappointed.
MUSIC
The Blind Side
The Blind Side is a regular section dedicated to music fans looking for the perfect Boracay beach soundtrack, straight from local DJ Reo Mendoza’s playlist. Named after his weekly radio show “The Blind Side With Reo” on 106.1 FM and live streaming online at www.radioboracay.com/fm-106-1/ (every Saturday from 3 to 6PM). YOU’LL find DJ Reo arresting the Jungle Black Moon and Full Moon and house music, he is unashamed sincerity comes through with every lives and breathes his music.”
Boracay crowds at AREA 51 on the monthly parties. Known for his eclectic brand of dance of his populist appeal, and his raw musical musical journey he takes you on. “A good DJ
SEPTEMBER HABAGAT HITS by dj reo mendoza It’s all about Tech House, Deep House, House, and Techno! Submarine - Copyright -- The UK production duo of Defected Copyright Gavin Mills and Sam Holt fully deserve to be on The Blindside #1 track of the month
Let’s Dance (Agev Munsen Remix) - Tom Flynn -- Vega Records and Tom Flynn come out with a solid dance floor filler. It will definitely climb up the chart.
Messing With My Soul - Kevin Yost -Climbing up the charts and almost reaching number 1. Deep House sensation Kevin Yost does it again. This is definitely going to attract some attention in the dance industry.
Back U Baby - Felix Da Funk -- Ibiza’s local island DJ Felix Da Funk is totatlly a chart topper, perfect for being on The Blindside
Mayamero - Ray Manteca -- Still on The Blindside Top 10 for its power that it brings to the dance floor of The Jungle Full Moon Parties at Area 51 Top Secret Party Facility held during the New Moon and Full Moon.
Get Up And Clap Your Hands - Alkalino -If you listen carefully, this track is using a sample that you might just recognize
Heart Of Glass - Mart & Casey -- Mart & Casey present a stunning nu disco, house music cover version of Blondie’s huge 70s disco hit ‘Heart Of Glass’, probably one of the best know Blondie songs ever that topped the charts in several countries.
Run Away - Matvey Emerson -- This is a melodic banger perfectly suited for the dance
Zultan (Pablo Fierro Remix) - Steve Paradise -- It looks like Italian House DJ and Producer Steve Paradise pulls it off again. This time comes a collaboration with Spanish Musician and Producer Pablo Fierrot
Get Down - Prefunk -- The sample used on this track was released on 2003 by Room 5 using the voice of Oliver Cheatham, it was titled ‘Make Luv’
Crepe Samurai
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BORACAY SUN
ENVIRONMENT
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SEPTEMBER 2014
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Children at Risk Jun Ariolo N. Aguirre EVEN before the controversial raid on several videoke bars in the island that rescued 35 females, many of them believed to be under-age, Boracay Sun was already planning to run a story on the protection of children. In 2008, the ECPAT International (End Child Prostitution, Child Pornography and Trafficking of Children) claimed that they had studied 14 cases of child sex tourism on Boracay, all of them Filipinos, and that the study, entitled “A Survey of Child Sex Tourism in the Philippines” and published by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, reported that, in Boracay, young girls and boys involved in the child sex tourism industry were found living in brothels behind world-class hotels and resorts, sleeping on floors crammed with two to three other girls or boys. “For rent, each child is expected to pay an average of 750 pesos per month (in 2008) which equals about $16. The brothels also served as the central location where pimps secure sexual services. Victims are exposed to working conditions where they lack adequate rest, sleep, and leisure. They often serve at least two to three clients per night for seven nights a week. Additionally, they experience physical and substance abuse, and exposure to sexually transmitted diseases,” the ECPAT reported. Despite the alleged prevalence of child sex tourism in Boracay, the Philippine law restricts the media in reporting it, claiming that cases, as well as the suspects, should be confidential. This is further complicated by the fact that many children find their way on the island through more legitimate avenues, accompanied by tourists in perfectly reasonable situations. According to Evangeline Gellaga, Head of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development office (PSWD), the government did not remiss in protecting the children on Boracay in the past. It came to light that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional office apparently had been sending personnel to monitor possible cases of Child Sex Tourism (CST) on the island for a long time, but had come across a few difficulties. “The DSWD could not really identify possible cases since many of the
tourists, especially the foreigners, did not take kindly to being asked, however respectfully by DSWD agents, why they are being accompanied by a child. The foreigners reprimanded our DSWD personnel, and also threatened to sue them for disturbing their supposed vacation in this resort island,” said Gellaga. To complement the DSWD thrust, the local Social Welfare and Development office of Malay had installed a social welfare desk at the Caticlan Jetty Port to supposedly screen any Filipino minors coming to Boracay accompanied by a foreign adult. The ECPAT had also conducted training sessions for Boracay police personnel in order to save children from the child sex tourism industry. But, as tourists continue to increase in numbers, children are now found loitering on the beach, many of them begging for money. Some of them are also involved in robberies and snatching incidents with foreign tourists, and even go into resorts to steal unguarded items. According to ‘Jojo’ (not his real name), an 11 year-old child whose family originates from Boracay, children living in Boracay are afraid of dealing with foreigners. “Some of the foreigners gave us toys, chocolates and money. However, some of my friends have been sexually abused by foreigners. They were afraid to come out in the open because they are poor,” he explains. Shifting the focus slightly, last August 7th 2014, the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), in cooperation with the Department of Justice, conducted a seminar amongst police officers on this island about human trafficking. After the conference, the police officers carried out simultaneous raids among three different videoke bars in Boracay, where 35 women, some of which are believed to be minors, were ‘rescued’ from their alleged human trafficking ordeal, and from forced prostitution. However, Reymar Legazpi, owner of one of the videoke bars, said in a radio interview that the women who come to his own establishment come at their own volition. Owners of the other bars also deny that the women were forced to work as sex workers. The investigation continues.
Photo Credit: http://3.bp.blogspot.com/
Conclusion:
Questions for the local government:
With the APEC coming to Boracay, which would mean 500 or so members of the international media being exposed to the problem, this is now a challenge to the local government unit of ‘clearing the roads of Boracay’, especially when it comes to the protection of children.
• What were the achievements of the social welfare desk? • What is the local government doing about the problem of children loitering in Boracay? • There is a local ordinance enforcing the curfew for minors at night. Is it still active?
(note: The Boracay Indigenous community are now restricting their interviews to the media for security reasons)
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