Boracay Sun | July 2016 Issue by Boracay Sun

JULY 2016 | VOL. VI NO. 6 | BORACAY’S MONTHLY NEWS ON RECYCLED PAPER

WWW.BORACAYSUN.COM

COMPLETE LIST What’s in this issue...

03 07 08 10 11 12 14 16 19 20

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

PARTNERS IN DEVELOPMENT J douglas fabilane

UNE 17, CATICLAN -- The Rotary Clubs of Boracay and Jindo visited the future site of the Philippine Red Cross BoracayMalay’s blood collecting unit and blood station in Caticlan. The station is the first of the many projects of the two Rotary Clubs through a global grant.

which was also ratified by the Caticlan Barangay Council headed by Hon. Juliet Aron. Barangay Caticlan will allow PRC Boracay-Malay Chapter to use its building (ground and 2nd floor) for 10 years, free of charge, and may be extended upon the mutual agreement of Barangay Caticlan and PRC Boracay-Malay.

Early this month, the PRC chapter, through the efforts of its Vice Chairman, Dir. Gretchen Martinez-West, secured from Barangay Caticlan a building through a Memorandum of Agreement

With this development, the Island of Boracay and the entire Municipality of Malay and its neighboring towns will benefit from the blood collecting unit and blood station. It will provide a stable

IN THE NEWS

EXPAT FILES

and sustainable supply of blood to those in need especially in times of calamity. Blood supply is mostly needed by mothers during child delivery and in cases of dengue. Usually, patients needing blood would seek from Kalibo, Roxas or Iloilo. And in most cases, the blood units they need are not readily available so they would have to bring a live donor with them. Having a blood collecting unit and blood station in Malay will cut a lot of cost for the patients and their family.

centerfold

It must be noted that for several years now, Boracay Island produces significant number of blood units for PRC Kalibo and PRC Capiz through the regular blood letting activities of several hotels, various civic groups and the local government of Malay, and through the massive blood donation campaigns of PRC Boracay-Malay Chapter. With a blood collecting unit and blood station so close to us, we hope to encourage more and more people to donate their precious blood and develop a culture of sharing and volunteerism.

lyfestyle

Rotary Boracay

>>> PAGE 18

Briton Swims around Boracay

From Mermaid to Montana

The Best of Both Worlds (Part 2)

Seoul in 48 Hours... or less

>>> PAGE 03

>>> PAGE 07

>>> PAGE 12

>>> PAGE 14

20th Induction Ceremonies

EDITOR’S NOTE

We have been very fortunate to join the band of Rotarians from Boracay and attend the 2016 Rotary International Convention in Seoul, Korea last May 28 to June 1. And since our theme this month is Change and Development, we find we would owe everyone a very valuable lesson if we keep to ourselves this story shared by RI President K.R. Ravindran in his welcome address: There is a story of a king, who received a gift of two magnificent falcons from Arabia. He called his falconer to him and said, “Take these birds, and train them well.” Some months passed, and the king asked for a report on his new birds. The falconer said, “Your Highness, one of the birds is flying majestically, across all your lands. The other one — he found himself a nice branch the day he got here, and he hasn’t moved since.” Of course the king was very disappointed in this. What is a falcon for but to fly? He called healers and experts from throughout the land — but the bird wouldn’t budge. Finally, the king thought, “All this time I have been looking for experts on birds. Perhaps I need to find an expert on branches.” So he called a farmer and said, “I will give you my best field if you can make that bird fly.” The farmer said, “Yes, Your Highness,” and he went outside. Ten minutes later, the king looked out the window. The bird was soaring off, over the treetops. The king ran outside and said, “The field is yours! How did you make this miracle?” The farmer held up his hand and said, “It was very easy, Your Highness. I broke off the branch on which the bird was sitting.” We cannot fly without leaving our perch.

COVER By Rotary Club of Boracay

THE BORACAY SUN FAMILY

WWW.BORACAYSUN.COM Senior Editors BLANCHE BASCO & BETH JALEA Art Director ALVA ALVAREZ Columnists JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS, KLAUS DORING HOLLY GOLIGHTLY, PIA MIRAFLORES, RICA VELASCO

ma. teresa fajilan

There is always a reason for people you meet in your life. Some people come into your life to guide you into the correct path and lead you to a greater journey. Some people will use you and hurt you but it will still be for a better you. Some people will come and stay to be your lifetime angel to bring out the best in you. Life is a mystery but it is always full of adventure and greatness! ~ MTFB It takes a STRONG PERSON to do their own thing and not wait for anybody else to validate their existence. ~ Steven Aitchison

Contributors JUN ARRIOLO AGUIRRE, KAREN BERMEJO, F.l. CASTRO, DOUGLAS FABILANE, Cecilia laim, MICHAEL JEROME MADRIAGA, SP01 Christopher Del Rosario Mendoza, Marian castro ordillo, tara lee parvus, ELMAR TERLUTTER Contributing Photographers Joann “AJ” Barrios, Ernesto Cruz, Isla Grapika, Paulo Violas Publisher THE BORACAY WALLSTREET INC. President & CEO MA. TERESA FAJILAN Sales and Marketing Manager MICHELLE ELIZON Operations Manager JOANN “AJ” BARRIOS Boracay Sun Office Monaco Crossing Tulubhan, Manoc Manoc, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan 5608 editor@boracaywallstreet.com

For Advertising / Inquiries Telephone: (+63 36) 288 2582 Mobile: (+63 998) 558 2541 Email: ads.boracaysun@boracaywallstreet.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.

boracay.sun

theboracaysun

BORACAY SUN

IN THE NEWS

| JULY 2016

Briton swims around Boracay for Red Cross Karen Bermejo

n June 12, while the Filipino nation is celebrating its 118th Independence Day, a Briton also made history for being the first person to swim around Boracay island.

Richard Macartney completed the 18.5 kilometers swim around the island for about seven hours. Richard started at 6:00 A.M. and finished at around 1:00 P.M. The swim started at the White Beach, from the beachfront of Nigi Nigi Nu Noos e Nu Nu Noos in Station 2, and followed a clockwise route around Boracay passing Puka Beach, Ilig-iligan, Tambisaan and Manocmanoc. The 49-year-old swimmer prevailed against strong winds, currents, jellyfish, the heat and even the rain. The swimming event however was not done for fame, but for a greater cause — to create a culture of water safety among children. Richard’s goal was to raise fund for the Philippine Red Cross Boracay-Malay Chapter, to provide free swimming classes for the less fortunate children in Boracay and Malay. Through its Red Cross Youth program, the organization has been conducting activities that focus on teaching basic swimming lessons for children. The program also aims to prevent drowning incident among children. During the swim, Richard was accompanied by two escort boats from the Philippine Coast Guard-Boracay and White Sand Water Sports. Members of the PCG and PCG-Auxiliary and the medical team of Red Cross were on board the boat and ensured his safety. During the seven-hour swim, Richard takes a few minutes break after every 40 minutes of swimming.

Aklan Provincial AIDS Council alarmed on increasing HIV-AIDS cases Jun Ariolo N. Aguirre

ALIBO, Aklan - The Provincial AIDS Council expressed alarm over the increasing number of HIV-AIDS cases in the province due to male-to-male sex.

Dr. Vic Sta. Maria, chief of the Provincial Health Office (PHO) said that based on the numbers gathered, there are now 78 cases of HIV-AIDS in Aklan. In 2015, the province only recorded 51 cases since 1984. “Members of the Council have identified their respective strategies on how to prevent HIV-AIDS cases in the province from increasing,” he said, adding that the PHO sits as chair of the council. Based on the data provided by the Department of Health to the PHO, 74 of the cases were male, all of them involved in male-to-male sex.

Importance of swimming

Members of the council include the media, Philippine National Police, Philippine Red Cross, World Vision, and the Department of Education, among others.

Richard’s dream is for swimming to be part of the education system in every country. He noted that while it is important to learn math, sciences, language and English in school, swimming is a skill needed for survival.

Sta. Maria said the strong influence of tourism brought by Boracay Island is one of the factors of the increasing cases. All of the 17 towns in the province have already registered their HIV-AIDS case list.

“Math is never gonna save your life, but swimming could,” he said. As an archipelago and being surrounded by bodies of waters, he said it is important for people of the Philippines to learn how to swim and start young.

The council urges those persons who suspected themselves to be infected with HIV-AIDS to go to the Dr Rafael S. Tumbukon Memorial Hospital in Kalibo to avail of the free testing. Aside from the confidentiality of the client and his medical status, the testing is also free of charge.

Richard learned how to swim at a young age. However, he figured in an accident and got a full knee replacement when he was 14. Because of his knee condition, Richard focused on swimming as his sports. Though he doesn’t claim to be a professional swimmer, Richard used his passion to promote various causes. He joined the Swim for Peace in Tunisia and has also swum the waters of Australia. For those who wanted to support Richard’s cause and to help more children learn how to swim, you can donate through the following account details: Account Name: Philippine Red Cross; Bank | Metrobank, Station 2 - Boracay Branch | Account No. : 571-3-57114347-0.

Western Visayas, in which the province of Aklan is geographically located is the sixth region in the country with increasing HIV-AIDS cases. First is the National Capital Region (including Metro Manila) with 39% increase; Region 4-A with 13%; Region 3, 11%; Region 7, 10%; Region 11, 10% and the Region VIWestern Visayas region, 4%. Globally, the Philippines is among the countries according to the World Health Organization that has an increasing HIV-AIDS cases of more than 20 percent annually.

BORACAY SUN

IN THE NEWS

police desk

PNP’s Salaam Police Center conduct Peace Building Caravan

SP01 Christopher Del Rosario Mendoza, PCR PNCO BTAC

| JULY 2016

Boracay PNP receives Silver Eagle Award SP01 Christopher Del Rosario Mendoza, PCR PNCO BTAC

he Boracay Tourist Assistance Center (BTAC) received a Silver Eagle Award from the Philippine National Police (PNP) during the Conferment of Compliant Status and Awarding Ceremony held on May 23 at Camp Martin Teofilo Delgado, Iloilo City.

he team from Salaam Police Center under The Directorate of Police Community Relations recently conducted a peace building caravan dubbed as Peace Building and Salaam Engagement Forum with a theme: “Shared and Individual Responsibility in Building Lasting Peace” held at Manocmanoc Covered Court, Boracay Island.

The Silver Eagle Award was given by the PNP in line with the PATROL Plan 2030 (Peace & Order Agenda for Transformation and Upholding of the Rule-Of-Law).

To foster harmonious relations with the Muslim community; undertake close monitoring, networking and liaising activities with Muslim communities in addressing terrorism and lawless violence in their respective areas to ensure respect of cultural diversity and cooperation; conduct information dissemination about Muslim beliefs, culture and traditions to Non-Muslim PNP personnel; and enhance linkages with the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos and the Muslim-Christian communities to ensure effective community partnership in addressing terrorist threats and violence, are among the functions of Salaam Police Center.

The evaluation and revalidation were based on the accomplishments of the six elements, namely, Formalization of Advisory Council (Element 1), Cascading of Strategy Down to Its Individual Personnel (Element 2), Alignment of Budget to its Strategy (Element 3), Dashboard Accomplishment (Element 4), Implementation of ComPlan (Element (5) and Collation of Best Practices (Element 6). The next two stages are Proficiency and Institutionalization.

PSUPT Joseph Ian Lofranco, the Officer In-Charge of Salaam Police Center based in PNP National Headquarters, Camp Crame served as one of the speakers. He discussed the Mandate of Salaam Police Center and Peace Building Activities. Ustadz Yunus Abdulmuin, Spiritual Adviser of Salaam Police Center explained deeply the different misinterpreted Muslim terminologies under the topic Misinterpretation of the Meaning of Some Verses in the Qur’an. PINSP Jose Mark Anthony Z Gesulga, Deputy Chief of Boracay Tourist Assistance Center presented the Peace and Order Situation Updates of Boracay Island. The said forum was attended by Police Community Relations Officers of 18 Police Units and personnel of Aklan PPO PCR Branch headed by PSUPT ROGEN MORALES, Chief of AklanPPO PCR Branch; personnel of Boracay Tourist Assistance Center and members of PNP Class Mandirigma of 2016; members of KABALIKAT Civicom-Boracay led by Rodel Batchiller, Chapter President; and members of Boracay Salaam Police Volunteers, Ustadz, Imams and Board of Directors of Boracay Muslim Community Association led by Faisal Arumpac, President Boracay Muslim Community Association.

During the evaluation and revalidation phase conducted by the Provincial and Regional Strategy Management Unit, Boracay PNP obtained an average of 90.52%.

Among the programs and best practices that BTAC was recognized for are: Police’s initiative in Reducing Opportunity To any Elements in Committing Crime Techniques (P.R.O.T.E.C.T), Boracay Unified Scheme Tourism Enforcement Ronda (B.U.S.T.E.R.) Patrol, CODE Blue Project (Environmental Protection Activities), PNP Boracay Operational and Situational Evaluation report to the Stakeholders (B.O.S.E.S.) and Boracay Action Group (B.A.G.) which was awarded as Best Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) Rural Category in 2013 in Region VI; 2014 Most Outstanding Non-Government Organization in Region 6 and National Level and Most Outstanding Non-Government Organization in Region 6 for 2015. The members of Boracay PNP Advisory Council are Commodore Leonard Tirol (Business Community), Pastor Angelo Panganiban (Religious Sector), Victor Supetran (Academe), Alan Palma Sr (Media), Marlo Schonenberger and Felix Delos Santos Jr (Government Sector) as Chairman. The silver eagle replica and plaque of recognition for the effective implementation of PATROL Plan for a highly capable, effective and credible police service were received by BTAC Chief PSINSP Nilo A Morallos and Sir Felix Delos Santos Jr from PCSUPT Bernardo A Diaz, Police Regional Office (PRO)-6 Regional Director and PCSUPT Noel A Baraceros, Chief of Center for Police Strategy Management.

Tay is new PCGA-Boracay chief Karen Bermejo Photo by Ernesto Cruz

aptain Peter Tay, a Singaporeborn naturalized Filipino is now the new commander of the 609th Coast Guard Auxiliary (CGA) Squadron of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA). He replaced outgoing Captain Jose Villaroman who served the troop for two years. Tay was officially installed in a turnover of leadership and management ceremony held on June 8 which was officiated by Commodore Leopoldo Laroya, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commander for Western Visayas. During the event, the 609th CGA Squadron was likewise commended for their accomplishment in the past two years. The group received medals and

ribbons for its campaigns and programs on disaster relief and rehabilitation, anti-marine pollution; and for their international cleanup activities. The recognition was given by the Office of PCG in Western Visayas. Captain Villaroman was meanwhile awarded with the Distinguished Service medal and ribbon by the PCG-National Office. Aside from Tay, 17 officials of the 609th CGA Squadron were also promoted to higher ranks. For the next two years, Tay vowed to create an underwater search and rescue team in the island. A seasoned diver himself, Tay said he will tap diving associations in Boracay to enhance the capacity of the PCGA volunteers on marine rescue. Tay also vowed to continue assisting the PCG-Boracay on securing the maritime security here. He

The 609th Coast Guard Auxialiary Squadron of Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary with the officials of the Philippine Coast Guard-Region 6

also vowed that the group will continue to conduct medical and dental missions to serve the community further. Tay will likewise focus on gathering more volunteers for PCGA. “We will have 200 active volunteers by the end of 2017,” he said. At present, the 609th

CGA Squadron has 50 active volunteers. Also present during the turnover were Commodore Leonard Tirol, Commodore Mike Labatiao; Captain Luz Escarilla, PCG-Coast Guard District Auxiliary Western Visayas.

BORACAY SUN

IN THE NEWS

| JULY 2016

PH’s young environmental leaders gather at YSEALI SEA Camp in Boracay Karen Bermejo

wenty-five young leaders from across the Philippines gathered at the weeklong Young Southeast Asian Youth Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Sea and Earth Advocates (SEA) Camp here from June 6 to 12 to present initiatives to solve the island’s environmental problems. The YSEALI SEA Camp is a project of the marine conservation group Save Philippine Seas (SPS). It is implemented in partnership with the U.S. Embassy in Manila, thru the YSEALI program, U.S. President Barack Obama’s signature program to strengthen leadership development and networking in Southeast Asia. The participants aged 18 to 23 years old were selected from the pool of 400 applicants from all over the country. They participated in an intensive leadership and environmental education program with outdoor activities, workshops, and panel discussions. Anna Oposa, SEA Camp founder and SPS executive director said the camp, which was launched last year, is an environmental education and leadership program that encourages the youth to think of solutions for the problems in their community. “Boracay presents some of the biggest challenges that conservationists face, and we believe in the potential of the Filipino youth to create trailblazing and feasible solutions,” she said. Projects Through the camp, youth leaders can pitch projects and earn grants for its implementation. It has been conducted in different regions in the country including

Participants of Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Sea and Earth (SEA) Camp in Boracay

Batangas, Negros Occidental, Tawi-Tawi, Coron and Zamboaga. However, it was the first time that participants from all over the country converged in one camp. It was also the first time that participants were able to implement their projects.

your social obligation; we believe that you can,” he said. He further encouraged the youth to take part in creating solutions to the problems of their respective communities. “Problems require actions today by young leaders,” he added.

For Boracay, the participants were able to implement these four environmental projects: Project Junior SEAtizens, a “gamified” environmental education activity for children; Project Art, Ati, and Atolls, an art workshop with the Boracay Ati community; Project SEAyasat, a compliance audit to Republic Act 9003 or the Solid Waste Management Act of various establishments in the island; and the Project Hugots which gather messages or “hugots” for the environment from tourists and locals as well. The messages were written on recycled tarps. The Project Hugot group also tapped resorts and establishments in Boracay to reduce the use of straws, sachets and plastics on their establishments.

AA Yaptinchay, director of Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines, meanwhile, inspired the participants to be a conservationist in their own. Vince Cinches, oceans campaigner of Greenpeace Philippines likewise shared strategies on how to campaign a certain cause. Rocky Guzman, legal and policy officer of Oceana Philippines also shared his insights in protecting Tañon Strait, the biggest marine protected area in the country.

Morever, Ryan Bradeen, asst. cultural affairs officer at US. Embassy in Manila stressed the importance of youth involvement in solving the country’s problems, especially on protecting the environment. “Your knowledge is an opportunity for you to fulfill

Meanwhile, aside from the Filipino participants, environment leaders from other Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia also participated in the camp. Among them is Adzmin Ab Fatta, project coordinator of Green Semporna in Malaysia. Adzmin talked about his experience in project management and also encouraged the Filipino youth to continue their respective advocacies despite the struggle that they may face.

BORACAY SUN

IN THE NEWS

| JULY 2016

BFI Corner

Rediscovering Laos at the ASEAN Women’s Private Sector Tourism Forum Pia R. Miraflores

ast June 12, I embarked on a long 15-hour journey from Boracay Island to LAO PDR (Laos). I, together with BFI members Viveca Hutchinson (Sandcastles Apartments), Claire Tayco (Karuna Boracay), Corinne and Chrystal Perez De Tagle (Karuna Boracay), and Elaine Catiis (My Boracay Guide); traveled all the way to Laos to attend the ASEAN Women’s Tourism Private Sector Forum in Vientiane, the capital city of Laos.

Day 1 – Women and Tourism in ASEAN

Ms. Hutchinson, being a member of AustCham, referred the said opportunity for me (a perfect and not to mention, free), and with the approval of the Board of Directors of the BFI, I set off on this learning journey to meet women from all over the ASEAN region, who are involved in tourism.

Through the discussions, it was clear that the ASEAN is at the forefront as a competitive economic region, with all its tourist potentials and the growing desire of travelers to visit the region. Successful business entrepreneur and one of Forbes Asia’s 40 leading philanthropists in 2015, Ms. Anchalika Kijkanakorn of the Akaryn Hotel Group, shared her experience in leading a successful tourism business in the ASEAN. Lonely Planet Operations Director, Ms. Nóirín Hegarty, discussed the basic building blocks - the Three Ts, namely, talent, tenacity and temperament - empowering all of us women who were present that we are all capable of becoming brilliant women leaders in our own fields.

It was my second time in Vientiane, Laos; I previously visited this capital city four years ago. I was very excited to experience Laotian culture once more.

Colorful dances and happy music during the Gala Dinner

The first day was very exciting - I got to meet women from Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia, and two others from Manila. The attendees were composed of selected female leaders operating micro enterprises in the tourism sector within the ASEAN region. Applicants from the accommodation, food and beverage, handicrafts, and tour operator sectors were invited to apply after expressing their enthusiasm to contribute to policy change in this sector and establish vital industry partnerships within the ASEAN region. Ms. Adrienne Francis, renowned journalist of ABC News, served as the master of ceremonies during the official welcome event as well as the program host throughout the 3-day forum. HE Dr Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism of Laos delivered an opening remarks followed by HE Mr. John Williams, Australian Ambassador.

The first day sessions were very exciting as we met Ms. Jacqueline Alexis, Thng, Partner of Prophet – a consultant on many prominent, innovative and winning brands. Opportunities and Challenges of Women and Tourism in ASEAN were discussed in groups led by performance management specialist and economist, Mr. John Fargher.

The final session on the first day was led by International Tourism Development Expert Peter Semone of Destination Human Capital. He discussed the challenges of building and retaining quality people in tourism, and also shared the wonderful project which he started at LANITH (Lao National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality) that educates, trains and provides extensive professional experience to local people to find employment in the tourism industry. The good news is he aims to develop a similar program for the Philippines and we told him it would be great to bring the program to Boracay.

Panel Discussion: Opportunities and Challenges of tourism in the ASEAN

With His Excellency Mr Savankhone Razmountry, Vice Minister, Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism Lao PDR

Day 2 – Online Marketing The second day was all about marketing and building one’s online presence. Online marketing experts Google Asia Pacific Head of Hotels and Airlines Jenn Villlalobos, Facebook Asia Pacific’s Marketing Head Gap Kim, Potential (Educational Technology) CEO Shadi Banna, Lonely Planet’s Nóirín Hegarty, and Travelfish.org Managing Editor Samantha Brown focused their discussions on maximizing social media for tourism businesses, building one’s online presence, online technology for business, and growing in a digital world. They shared how the tourism and hospitality sector is one of the sectors which has witnessed a lot of digital transformation, from hotels and airlines selling directly online to customers – putting pressure on travel agents, to uber and airbnb making use of the sharing economy to challenge transport and hotel operators. A gala dinner featuring ASEAN community cultural presentations highlighting each delegation’s traditional music and dances were enjoyed by all the delegates. The Philippine delegation danced to Laotian Music and our very own “Manila” disco music. It was a night to remember as we shared dances, good food and wine as entertaining fun and laughter transcended the formal ambiance of the grand ballroom. Day 3 – Financial Literacy The final day focused on financial literacy training and access to finance which greatly aid micro tourism enterprises in managing their finances better. Indeed, the 3-day forum has significantly changed our perspective. It was a life-changing opportunity to meet such an amazing network of transformational leaders and inspiring partners. I was able to exchange ideas and learn more with like-minded professionals and realized that indeed our community is so small, and we experience the same tourism challenges such as connectivity, visa restrictions, infrastructure, and human capital management. We therefore realized that a renewed approach and cooperation among the ASEAN community will lead to a successful economic cooperation for the ASEAN region. I am very grateful to the Australian government (AUSAID) and the AustCham for organizing such an important forum. Our voices are heard as the output of our discussion will be presented by the Australian government at the ASEAN leaders meeting to be held at Lao at the latter part of June.

BORACAY SUN

EXPAT FILES

| JULY 2016

From Mermaiding to Montana Holly Golightly

s my golden horse, Hank, loped across the bluegreen grass, through a small valley flanked with pine trees and beige boulders towering to the sky, I could see a cow and her calf break away from the herd, and turn to run in the other direction. I pushed Hank into a canter and we soared up the gentle slope, round the edge of the herd, then turned towards the errant cow-calf pair. Mum quickly spun, heading back into the herd. The calf stopped, eyed Hank and me pushing towards him, and suddenly whizzed round, back into the sea of black to find its mother. Adrenaline shot through me as we pulled back to a walk – we’d done it! I’d successfully returned my first cow-calf pair to the huge herd of 300 and we continued up to the higher pastures. It’s many little girls’ dream to be a Mermaid – it certainly was for me, every Saturday morning I’d avidly take in a bit of ‘Splash’ and Ariel before my

swimming lesson. As I got a bit older, my interests moved to most parents’ words-of-dread: “Please can I have a pony?” Soon, instead dreaming about being a cowgirl, I was galloping across the plains, herding cows and yelling “Yeehaaawww!”. Horses became my life through my teenage years, but there wasn’t a lot of opportunity in England to become a cowgirl. In my 30s, travel became my passion and the azure blues of the oceans began to call me once again. So I heeded their cries and took to the crystal waters of Asia and gain my scuba diving license. A couple of years ago, I happened to stumble across a little island called Boracay, and to my delight and amazement it was home to the world-famous Philippine Mermaid Swimming Academy! I couldn’t WAIT to re-live my childhood dream and get my fins on! I got my Mermaiding license and BAM! I joined a community of real, live Mermaids. I felt like I’d come home, splashing about with like-minded people in the reefs of Boracay. Heaven. The world works in funny ways and little did I know my next adventures would take me straight out of Asia, depositing me slap, bang in the middle of the Wild West – Montana, to be exact. I discovered a website listing the Top50 Ranch Vacations and

Your Wish is my Command Klaus Doring

hen I was still a young boy, I have been taught that there might be fairy creatures offering us three free wishes. We should always be so wise enough to think it over very well and select the best wishes for our very own. Sure, there will be always classic stupidities regarding fairy-wishes. We are all human beings and don’t belong to the fairy category. Your wish is my command! And, there is someone who wishes at first a strong health, and - sure, he or she receives it, because good fairies never hesitate. And now and then? Here he is, for example, the healthy man is like a boulder in the surf, but surrounded by a world of war, flames and so-called military conflicts. But this man is still alive and as fit as a fiddler. Why should he wish for a strong health? Well, maybe we have to formulate our wishes for something more improved. But what? Discretion is the better part of valor. Let’s try it like a fairy-tale and ask for wealth, riches and abundance. These are the one and only things on earth, right?

With money, we can travel around the globe, find friends, even in far away distances, and we can do charities. Well, and if we might become sick, maybe seriously sick, we must not worry. We can afford and finance the most affordable doctors and most updated hospitals to give us back our good health. And if not? In many fairy tales, we can also find the one with unassuming manners, inconspicuous, poorly dressed-up, a little bit silly, mostly disregarded and easily overlooked. This guy has only one wish, such as eternal salvation and bliss with a little stool in heaven besides God. And guys, be sure, that he will get it, and, he is happy and very thankful. So far so good, it seems the simpleton has been the brightest. It’s all right: three wishes and not one more. A different thing, isn’t it? If all human beings on this entire globe could be all around happy, which means to say: nobody must go hungry any more, nobody must be despairing, nobody must be worried about wars and catastrophes, and everybody could be able to enjoy health and happiness without bearing trials. Yes, if... Then, we wouldn’t need fairy-wishes. Real life looks different. Real life is not a fairy tale. We need prayers and should be more respectful and friendly to each other. Each one of us has his or her own three wishes. Me too. One of them is: I wish peace on earth! Comments, suggestions or questions? Email: doringklaus@gmail.com or follow me in Facebook or Twitter or visit www.germanexpatinthephilippines. blogspot.com.

suddenly realised that my dreams of becoming a cowgirl could also come true, I just had to go! Montana is simply stunning. I was completely unprepared for the sheer enormity of the place, the ranch I stayed on was 18,000 acres on its own – you could squeeze about seven Boracays into the one property! I couldn’t wait for my first cattle drive; this is when the cowboys move their herd to a new place, using horses and sometimes, these days, four-wheelers. I got back on a horse again for the first time in five years and finally learned to ride western style. SO much more comfortable than English! I got my first pair of real cowboy boots, learned to shoot a handgun, smelled the wild sage, bathed in hot springs, climbed to the high point overlooking the farm, rode the ATVs and experienced real down-home, family ranch life. I can’t wait to go back. So. Mermaiding or Montana you might ask! Well, I have to say I’ve fallen in love with both. And if one, or the other, or both were your childhood dreams, I urge you to go after them and tick off those bucket list items – after all, you only live once! Philippine Mermaid Swimming Academy: philippinemermaidswimmingacademy.com Ranch Vacations: top50ranches.com

BORACAY SUN

7107 ISLANDS

| JULY 2016

Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa City

The Best Dishes of Palawan in One Street! Michael Madriaga

visit to the province of Palawan is one if not the best experience a traveler can have. Blessed with beautiful sceneries and breathtaking attractions, it is no wonder that Palawan is tagged as the Philippines’ last frontier, and consistently listed as the Best Island in Asia. Puerto Princesa City, the gateway to the province, offers a lot of activities and places of interest for adventures and sightseers. You may read about these different destinations and activities in Boracay Sun’s May 2015 Issue. Aside from visiting the city’s attractions, the City’s local delicacies are worth the try as well. To make the search easier for you, here is a list of the highly suggested food stops for your next Puerto Princesa adventure located in just one street – Rizal Avenue. or nido soup - the Filipino version of the Chinese bird’s nest soup. If you still haven’t heard how it is harvested and what it is made from, here’s a tip: the main ingredient of the soup is the bird’s saliva that’s left on its nest. Sounds gross? Just try a sip or two and you’d definitely ask for more. Pair your soup with other best-sellers from Balinsasayaw like buttered shrimps, grilled tuna panga, and our favorite, the crispy Pata! Nokinok’s Restaurant

Kinabutch’s Grill and Bar This restaurant is highly recommended by most locals for those looking for the best place to eat in Puerto Princesa City. It is just a short tricycle ride away from the airport. The place is one of the few that offers the local exotic delicacy, Crocodile Sisig, (mixed crocodile meat and spices, usually served on a sizzling plate). Crocodile meat tastes just like chicken but with a bit of resemblance to pork fat. No need to worry as the locals assured us that it is not illegal to butcher crocodile in Palawan. It is available in limited supply though hence, a small serving would cost around 300PHP. Another must-try in Kinabutch’s is their tamilok or wood worm. These aren’t worms per se as they belong to the oysters family, and they do taste like shellfish. Tamilok may be served fried or kinilaw (ceviche) but we suggest that you try the latter if you want to taste the natural flavors of the wood worm. One dish that is already available almost everywhere but needs to be mentioned in this article is Kinabutch’s Kalderetang Kambing. Their version of this famous Filipino goat dish is by far the most flavorful I’ve tried in my whole life. It has the perfect balance of savory and spicy flavors combined with the fall-off the bone goat meat. Balinsasayaw Restaurant Here’s another restaurant at Rizal Avenue that offers another Palawan native dish, the balinsasayaw soup

Located at Rizal Avenue corner Fernandez Street, Nokinok’s is the go-to place for locals and also tourists who want to try Palawan’s Best Halo-halo. Considered as the city’s pride, this unbeatable local fast food store serves halo-halo from morning up until midnight just to cater to the unending flow of customers. Unlike the usual halo-halo, Nokinok’s version is made from only a few ingredients like beans, leche flan, cornflakes, pinipig and sweet potato, among others. This refreshing delicacy may also be enjoyed either as a snack or a dessert.

Lou Chaolong Hauz During the Vietnam war, some refugees found their way to Palawan which became their new home. This migration led to a change in Puerto Princesa’s food offerings as these Vietnamese introduced Pho (noodle soup) to the locals, which the locals then call chaolong (not the same as the Vietnamese Chao Long made from rice porridge topped with pork innards). One of the places that our tour guide suggested we visit for this local Pho is the Lou Chaolong Hauz. Each serving costs less than a hundred pesos and is actually enough to satisfy a starving tummy. Unlike the original Vietnamese pho, Palawan’s version of the noodle soup is more oily and garlicky in flavor. But like the pho, the chaolong is also best matched with “French Bread” (called banh mi in Vietnam) which basically a sandwich with pork (or chicken) barbecue filling. Itoy’s Coffee Haus Located just across Balinsasayaw Restaurant, Itoy’s Coffee Haus is a nice stop to get your caffeine fix and cap the night after a day tour. This cozy local coffee shop has a vintage ambiance with wooden crate shelves beside the counter and brick walls around. Most of the menu items are specially named (probably with names from their clan), like Butchie’s for their Kahlua Special Frappucino. Aside from coffee, they also serve fruit shakes, hot chocolate, and tea. You can have them with cakes and pastries, such as their tiramisu in a cup. They also have an al fresco garden area, perfect for breakfasts, which they also serve. Itoy’s is probably one of the best breakfast spots in the city.

BORACAY SUN

+ altitude

7107 ISLANDS

| JULY 2016

Joey Ayala heads intimate gig at Boracay Joel james Cubillas pHOTOS BY ISLA GRAPIKA

Joey’s. The participation of his audience feeds him, drives him and the crowd spirited. In between songs, he silences the crowd as he talks about his perspective on environment, and industrialization (aspects wherein he’s a known advocate of) and the law of attraction. Song after song, he narrates the lives of the regular Filipino, singing anthems such as Tingnan Nyo, Karaniwang Tao, Magkabilaan, even a muscled-up version of Cynthia Alexander’s (his sister) Dumaan Ako.

ressed in his dyed Mindanaon fabric, his low, droning voice, and his guitar layered with a perfect film of chorus and reverb, Joey Ayala handled his Boracaynon crowd like a fiddle in a scientific experimentation.

Such is the writing of Mr. Ayala: complicated (most of the time saddening) truths simplified in his poetic verses, add it with his native-inspired musicality and you’d have a song that doesn’t only informs and expresses, but one that transforms and transcends.

At times, he’d pause and translate and/ or explicate in English his Tagalog songs:

Yes, he bothers to translate his already beautiful Tagalog lines. Boracay, after all, is the land of vacationing Westerners and Koreans.

“I wish to fly like the eagle It’s dream that may never come true (for) without forests there could be no trees Without trees, there could be no nests Without nests, there would be no reason to fly” He translates his song, Agila, for his part-foreigner crowd.

Charlie’s Steakhouse and Diner is not your regular beer joint. The place serves prime beef and draft and imported beers among other beverages. The air conditioned venue suits the intimate vibe that Mr. Ayala radiates. He raises his glass , “Pahingi ng kuryente!” (Give me some electricity!), as he demands physical contact, the audience raises and toasts theirs around until it reaches

He alternates the head-bobbing reggae and the laid back folk and blues genres. Chong Chang, more known as Reggae Mistress’s skinsman, thickens the already groovy dynamic of the OPM icon. “Chong Chang, drumming under the influence”, the almost 60 year old vocalist kids as he introduces the dreadlocked percussionist. Chong (or Chang, whatever his first name is) flashed his brilliance all throughout the almost 90 minute gig especially in his short drum solo somewhere in the midst of Tabi Po. In a time of digitized music, it is delighting to know that an artist like Joey Ayala survives and thrives. He is an example that a simple equation of reverb, chorus, sincere wordings and an authentic personality is all what an artist needs to inspire others: the music they produce is alluringly theatrical, splendidly alive at least and most of all, definitely Filipino.

BORACAY SUN

Island souls

PEOPLE

My Island Life Rica Velasco

| JULY 2016

But the greatest thing about living in the island, for me, is the community of people that choose to live there as well. On any given day, I would run into at least 10 people I know, all with a warm greeting. The community supported each other with events, businesses, charities, and the like. We gather for good causes, such as raising funds for Yolanda victims, having a charity run for the Philippine Red Cross, or doing a beach clean-up. The island community is one big family. I met the love of my life on the island – my precious dog Doobie, who is the main source of my joy and happiness. I have also met some of the most precious and pure souls who, I can say, are now my friends for life.

first went to Boracay in the mid-90s as a teenager and was absolutely enamoured with the place. I fell in love with the powdery white sand, crystal clear blue waters, and the simple lifestyle of the locals. I vowed to live in the island someday as I felt in my heart that I am not really a city girl and I wanted to live near the ocean. This wish indeed came true in 2007. I was fortunate enough to be part of the pre-opening team of Two Seasons Boracay, a boutique hotel located at a prime spot in White Beach Station 1. Seeing the resort grow and flourish was quite an achievement, but one of the best perks of the job was that I could enjoy the sunset everyday by just walking a few feet away from my office. After Two Seasons, I went on to work with a start up company, My Boracay Guide, where I stayed for six years. The job was perfect for me as I was able to help guests with their inquiries and accommodation needs in an island that I am so fiercely passionate about. It was easy for me to sell the product. I did not really have an “adjustment period” when I moved to the island. Maybe it was because prior to Boracay, I spent 13 months working on a cruise ship where I got used to living in a confined space without the luxuries of the city. During my first year or so, my routine was more of just work and home with the occasional dinner out. I then realized how much fun the nightlife could be and started going out more and more. What made it especially fun is seeing other island people out not to mention getting to meet new

people from other parts of the world and exchanging stories about culture and adventures. Through socializing, I realized that the island really do attract like-minded people - with the same values and outlook in life - to live there. All my life, I feel I am different from the average person – and here I am on an island with other people who are like me, too. I never felt so at home or comfortable in any other place. Some of the best things I love about living in Boracay: • Living a simple life. Work is just a few minutes away from home. The normal attire would be flip flops, shorts and just any top. On a night out, there are only a handful of bars to choose from and all within walking distance. Makeup is not required even. • Having the best and most utilized days off from work by hanging out on the beach • Nature was everywhere. The sunsets were absolutely spectacular, I could never get enough of the view. The moon is such a gorgeous sight, lighting up the sky along with so many stars at night. • There is nothing quite like dancing barefoot on the sand. • There is not much of a social status and people from all walks of life could mingle and become friends people treats each other equally. I got to know people from such diverse backgrounds, from ice-cream and towel vendors, to people wanting to escape the city life, to resort owners, and everything in between.

Before moving to Boracay, I lived quite a sheltered life in Manila in terms of physical activities. As much as I loved the water and ocean, I did not have much of an opportunity to visit one while living in the city. It was only in my 30s, while living on the island, where I learned how to swim, ride a bicycle, and scuba dive – and I am so grateful for this because I am now so comfortable in the water and my love for the ocean and sea life has increased a hundred fold. I grew so much as a person living in Boracay. Here, I discovered my true self. I became environmentally conscious and socially aware. I learned to appreciate the simple things and not to give much importance to material things. I imbibed positivity and learned to find the good in everything around me. I became more worldly, open-minded, and

understanding of other cultures. I may have travelled a lot while working on a cruise ship but I learned by talking to other locals and tourists on the island that there was so much more to see of the Philippines, and I am currently in the process of discovering those other beautiful destinations. After 8 years, I decided it was time for me to move on. It was a very hard decision to make, and I will always call Boracay Island my home. Living in this island was (and still is) the most special and magical time of my life that I will cherish forever.

BORACAY SUN

INDULGE

special press release

Mike’s Tiki Bar and Restaurant opens in Boracay Rica Velasco

new addition to Boracay’s gastronomic delights has opened. Housed in one of the newest resorts in the island, Red Coco Inn de Boracay, Mike’s Tiki Bar and Restaurant opened last May 30. Beloved friends and island locals were invited, as well as tourists.

The owners of Red Coco Inn wanted to open a bar and restaurant that had a unique concept. They decided on a Polynesian theme. The artwork in the restaurant is credited to Boboy from Bicol, who is also responsible for the designs at Coco Bar at Red Coconut Boracay, their beachfront property.

During the event, free appetizers, such as suckling pig (popularly known as lechon), buffalo wings, canapés, spring rolls, and chilli cheesy french fries, were served. Cocktails were sold at a low price of Php65.00, and a bucket of beer for Php 300.00. Guests were wowed by the impromptu performance of Boracay’s very own representative to The Voice Kid Philippines, Xylien Herrera, better known as Helo. This was followed by energetic performances by some of the best fire dancers on the island. Beer pong was also a source of entertainment for the patrons.

The menu at Mike’s is derived from the most popular items of the Red Coconut Boracay restaurant. Choices include appetizers such as beer battered onion rings, nachos and sizzling squid; there are also pasta, sandwich, and salad dishes. Red Coco Inn de road in the heart became operational its second building of 2015.

Boracay is located on the main of Station 2. Its first building in December 2014, and it opened and swimming pool in December

| JULY 2016

BORACAY SUN

CENTERFOLD

| JULY 2016

Best of Both Worlds

From Europe to Asia

T H E E U R OA S I E X P E R I E N C E ( Pa r t 2 )

“F

rom Europe to Asia: Capitalizing Experience in Youth Work” is a 23-month capacity building project that involves 7 partners from Italy, Portugal, Malta, Slovenia, Indonesia and the Philippines with the main aim of disseminating best practices of youth work from Europe to the South East Asian countries involved and receiving their input. The idea behind the project is to share the results of 20 years of growth and development in youth practices and capacity building in Europe with organizations outside the European Union so that the youth sector in Indonesia and the Philippines can play an important role in their countries’ development of non-formal education and youth empowering. The project involves capacity building trainings on NGO management and youth work, job shadowing periods, and volunteer involvement. However, this projects stands far from only benefiting the parts directly participating: it aims at reverting to the local and global community

by fostering development through education and changing people’s mentality toward a greater appreciation of non-formal education and to seize the opportunity that it creates. TDM 2000 International is an independent, non-profit network born in Italy and composed by over 25 international associations from all over Europe and the world. Its main activities aim to encourage the cooperation amongst countries in the field of youth to support their personal and professional growth as well as promoting volunteering and non-formal learning as ways of social mobility and career development. TDM2000 International is run by experienced professionals, trainers and volunteers and stands out for its experience in training and coaching, project management, intercultural communication, fund-raising and advocacy, lobbying and policy-making. /http://www.euroasi.eu/partner-associations/

Job Shadowing in Slovenia Cecilia Laim

During my youth days, I was an active member of different youth organizations, be it in school or in the community. And while I was able to apply and share those experiences and learnings in the youth organization I am working with, working with youths in Slovenia still proved to be a bit challenging. For one, I was working in a place away from home, and two, they youth I was working with speak a different language; they also have different culture and orientation. But it served as a learning experience for me; it widened my mind and gave me more in-depth experience of the society in general.

olunteering is a calling. So when one of my fellow Rotarians, Mar Schonenberger, encouraged me to apply and join the EuroAsi Project, with all determination, I said yes.

Job shadowing is a popular on-the-job learning, career development, and leadership development intervention. Essentially, job shadowing involves working with another employee who might have a different job in hand, might have something to teach, or can help the person shadowing him or her to learn new aspects related to the job, organization, certain behaviors or competencies. I was assigned to do the job shadowing in a youth organization called Kud Plac, in Metlika, Slovenia. The Kud Plac Kulturno umetniško društvo Plac (Cultural artistic association Plac) was founded in 2004 and now has more than 500 members; it provides non-formal educational possibilities to young people from Metlika and abroad. It aims to develop amateur cultural, sporting, artistic, ecological and educational activities by fostering creativity and education with the support of their local government and their community with a monthly subsidy amounting to 1,000 Euro for their project implementations with 300 youth members and recipients.

In my 21-day as a jobshadower, I stayed at Metlika, a municipality located in the southeastern part of Slovenia and also part of the vineyard region of the country. It has a population of 3,400. Slovenia is a country located in Central Europe, formerly named Yugoslavia and is considered as the Green Capital of Europe for its greeneries, rivers, and landscapes. This job shadowing experience is one of the best experience in the field of volunteerism. This experience is indeed a useful tool for more volunteer jobs that I am going to take and impart to fellow volunteers back home. The border town of Metlika has a turbulent and rich history marked by Turkish incursions, the first reading room as well as the first loan and savings bank in the Dolenjska and Bela krajina region.One of the most beautiful sights in Bela Krajina are the vineyards stretching over the sunny southern slopes of the Gorjanci. The Metlika wine cellar produces the best high-quality wines, which are presented every year at the Vinska vigred festival. The lively, yet gentle rapids of the Kolpa river are sure to charm all sports and nature lovers, and inviting hiking trails lead through the region. http:// www.sloveniaholidays.com/eng/metlika/

BORACAY SUN

Jobshadowing in Cagliari, Italy

CENTERFOLD

| JULY 2016

Time flies when you’re having fun! My last 2 weeks in Cagliari went by so fast; my whole 21 days just flew right by! It seems it was only yesterday when I arrived and unpacked my bags and then it was time to leave already.

Tara Lee Parvus

finally arrived in Cagliari after a 27-hour journey from the Boracay to China to Rome then to Sardinia. It was a long and tiring trip but my excitement for this great opportunity kept me alive.

First thing I did when I got to my apartment in Cagliari was to rest and recover so I could make it to the amazing Italian seafood welcome dinner that TDM2000 International and EuroAsi prepared for me that night. The EuroAsi – From Europe to Asia: ‘Capitalizing Experience in Youth Work’ is an Erasmus plus program which goes on for three weeks where I, as a job shadower, would be able to experience first hand the day to day activities and projects of TDM2000 and learn how the organizations in Europe collaborate with each other. I got to work on different projects like advertising the different events for the organization, fundraising, updating the online library for members around the world and social media visibility. We also got the chance to join a class at the University of Cagliari where we presented and spoke about youth mobility and the different programs under the Erasmus+ Project that are open to students. We also had a TDM2000 booth at a big youth festival called Cityfest. It was so much fun meeting new people and dancing to the music from different Italian bands playing on stage. The best part about this EuroAsi program is that not only did I get to volunteer but I also got to travel and explore Sardinia, Italy on the weekends! On my first weekend we hiked up the Sella del Diavolo, a 30-minute hike up a mountain which had the most amazing panoramic view of Cagliari. It’s definitely a must see for anyone who comes to Cagliari, it is so beautiful my photos don’t do it any justice. After seeing Sella del Diavolo we drove to Poetto beach and of course enjoyed some delicious Italian gelato and cappuccino under the sun while watching the kite boarders and wind surfers show off their tricks on the water. I was also able to watch a soccer match with new friends I met who are exchange students of Erasmus+ and volunteers for TDM2000 International, as well. It was a home game and tickets were sold out, we reserved seats at the North of the stadium which is basically for the hardcore Italian fans of team Cagliari. We brought with us our 5-euro scarves that had “Forza Cagliari” printed in red and blue and waved it in the air whenever the fans went crazy during an exciting play.

I was lucky I had the chance to see Cagliari’s traditional festival Sant’ Efisio which happens only once every year in the city square. Little kids and adults in beautiful costumes and others on horses paraded around the town while singing praises for their Saint. All of their costumes are handmade to the tiniest detail which makes them so beautiful and expensive - one set costs around 2,500 Euros! Another festival I experienced was the ‘Sa dia de S’olle e su Liori’ or translated in English is ‘the oil and bread festival’ in Escolca, a very small village about two hours ride from Cagliari with the population of only 600 (there were probably more sheep than people there!). I stayed in Escolca for two nights with a very a good friend of mine, Valeria; her family was very welcoming, I felt so at home! When they found out that I’ve never seen an olive tree before they brought me to their olive plantation which had over a hundred olive trees, but too bad the olives were not in bloom yet I would’ve loved to taste them! They also have a huge vineyard which unfortunately was also not in season yet but I got to taste her grandfather’s homemade organic wine made from their own harvested grapes. It was delicious! Pork Adobo it is! My stay at Escolca was most enjoyable, I didn’t want to leave. But we had to head back to Cagliari to prepare for the International cooking competition that we joined in. Every other Monday exchange students from different parts of Europe come to major restaurant to participate in this cooking event where representatives from each country compete with each other to see who can cook the most delicious food from their countries’ own traditional cuisine. This time there was a twist since 2 countries from Asia will be joining, Indonesia and the Philippines. And guess what my partner and I prepared? The classic Filipino pork adobo of course, which won us the competition against the yummy chicken satay and rice from Indonesia and the sweet gelato dessert from Lithuania by 2 points! Job shadowing in Cagliari was indeed one of the best experiences in my life. I learned so much during my short stay but the learning doesn’t stop there. This is a long term project and I look forward to be working with TDM2000 International again sometime in the near future. Cagliari has captured my heart and I will definitely come back soon.

One of the partners of this European Voluntary Service is One Media Boracay. It is a not for profit foundation active in the Philippines, which owns Radio Boracay DYJV-FM, a commercial radio station based in Boracay Island. Both the foundation and the radio station have been active in various community development projects targeting the whole country. One Media Boracay is also hosting and sending organisation for the European Voluntary Service and willing to get involved in the Erasmus+ programme to ensure the young Filipinos more learning opportunities.

BORACAY SUN

LIFESTYLE

| JULY 2016

Seoul in 48 hours… or less Beth Jalea

t was almost dusk (by Philippines standard time) when we finally took the city bus from Incheon International Airport to our “transient” hotel in Seoul – the artsy Chungmuro Residence and Hotel at Jung-gu, Seoul. We were to stay at Chungmuro for a night before we transfer to our “permanent” hotel near Yeonsinnae for the rest of our 8-day stay. Yes, we stayed in Seoul for eight days but alas, our fairy godmother only gave us 48 hours or less to be “tourists” in this big city. So what can Ella from the cinders do to make the most of her ephemeral princess, er… tourist state in Seoul? She turned to Pinterest, the world’s catalog of ideas, for a quick guide to this wonderful, culture-rich, modern city. There she found this Top 20 Things You Must Do in Seoul by Mint Notion – indeed, a smart list for first-timers with limited time to explore. We were able to do some, and more.

1. Head to the top of the Seoul Tower (in our thirsty and hurried state, it’s “drink a beer and eat fish and chips at the Seoul Tower”) – we did this a few hours before our 48-hour ends. The N Seoul Tower, officially the YTN Seoul Tower and also commonly know as the Namsan Tower marks the highest point in Seoul. For 9,000 won per person, you’ll have a 360-view of Seoul, that is, after an exhilarating, leg-numbing walk (or climb) from the Myeong-dong station up to where the Namsan cable car station is located which took us to Mt. Namsan. At Mt. Namsan we had to walk again towards the tower. Hence, we found that the panoramic view that the tower offers is best enjoyed with a drink of beer and a platter of fish and chips available at a small restaurant found before the main tower entrance.

2. Shop in Myeongdong – shopping is not for faint hearted especially if time is of the essence. For any Cinderella with penchants for clothes, bags, make-ups and those worldly, girly things, a quickie shopping trip is like a movie with a sad ending. But we can always go back (we believe) so a few Korean make-ups and some cute-sy socks did it for us. Myeongdong is a favorite (shopping) district among locals and tourists. Here you can find internationally recognized stores and local shops. While there, sample Korea’s gastronomic offerings right along the streets.

Other attractions at Mt. Namsan: •

•

Namsan Park - a historical site as it was only the center of capital defense. On Namsan peak, you will find five Bonghwadae (beacon mound) which were built to report the news from local governments to the central government with a five-signal system. Locks of Love – a famous spot for love birds and the romantics! Lock your beating hearts in cute and colorful locks in the spot located at the courtyard at the base of the Seoul Tower. Seoul is indeed for the romantics!

3. Ride the Seoul Metro – our favorite, and probably by most of the locals and tourists, mode of transportation in Seoul. The Seoul Metro subway system is super easy to use despite its vastness and intricacies (it has over 17 lines!). You can never get lost but for those with ITNJ personality like me, subway maps are available at the airport. CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

BORACAY SUN

LIFESTYLE

| JULY 2016

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

Go Palace-hopping – We were lucky to spend a morning at the Changdeokgung Palace, of the most beautiful of Seoul’s four main palaces. For 5,000 won, take a tour of the palace’s Secret Garden. The Palace was built by King Taejong in 1405 and is UNESCO world-heritage listed.

•

Gyeongbokgung Palace – Seoul’s premier palace and the largest of the five Grand Palaces in Seoul. This is where the Donggun, the living quarters of the Crown Prince is located. This palace has been raised from ashes of destruction several times since it was original built in 1395. We chanced upon this palace in one of our coffee runs at a Dunkin Donut at Gwanghwamun Square. There we were able to watch the changing of the guard ceremonies at the main entrance.

Walk along the Bukchon Hanok Village and relive how traditional Koreans lived hundreds of years ago. Bukchon Hanok Village is a 600-year old urban scene composed of alleyways and houses called Hanok. Bukchon differs from the other hanok villages (such as Namsangol Hanok Village) in that it was not created for tourists; it is a residential village where Seoulites live. Bukchon is a short walk away from Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace. Eat Korean BBQ – 48-hour tourist time or not, one can never get away (or would ever leave Seoul) without eating Korean BBQ. It is simply a must-have! Who wouldn’t partake of an unlimited supply of juicy meat (your choice of port, beef or chicken) roasted in a built-in grill right on your table with servings or platters of Korean vegetables and kimchi. Eat up and be sure to order a bottle of Soju to complete your meal.

Lotte World of Everland? It’s Everland for us, this time. As bonus, we were able to interact with the Pandas. And what’s more, we get to ride the world-famous T-Express, Korea’s first wooden roller coaster!

Lastly, in our short list, visit Seoul with Rotarians. There’s nothing like a kindred humanitarian spirit along. They are fun and eager to try out something new (in terms of food, at least) – our gastronomic experience at Seoul is beyond compare.

BORACAY SUN

ROTARY BORACAY

Rotary Club of Boracay: Sharing the passion for Rotary and doing good in the world Beth Jalea

welve Rotarians and guests from Boracay went to an exciting journey to Seoul, Korea for the 2016 Rotary International Convention held on May 28 to June 1. The Rotary International Convention is a venue where Rotarians from all over the world share their own success and accomplishments of service within their own communities as well as in other international locations. The Rotary International Convention is held every year, in a different city. This year’s convention is also the Rotary’s centennial celebration for its 1.2 million members worldwide. This global festival in Seoul was celebrated with the theme: Connect with Korea: Touch the World. Some 43,000 Rotarians and guests registered for this event. They enthusiastically shared their Rotarian spirit and knowledge special lectures, performances and programs especially designed for Rotarians to communicate and broaden their network. The Boracay delegation was led by the Club’s then President, Toby Moeckel, and President-Elect Teresa Fajilan-Bech.

Convention Highlights 3K Walk for Peace (May 28, Saturday) This is an important event in which Rotarians from all over the world come together and share Rotary’s core values with non-Rotarians. The 3-km Walk for Peace took place from Seoul Plaza to Gwanghwamun Square. It was a very festive events with some participants wearing their country’s traditional garbs. The Walk featured the Tree of Peace, performances and the Rotary Way Exhibit of photographs showcasing the 111 years of Rotary’s community service. CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

| JULY 2016

BORACAY SUN

ROTARY BORACAY

| JULY 2016

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

Opening Ceremony (May 29, Sunday)

House of Friendship

The Opening Ceremony was hosted by Rotary International President K.R. Ravindran. Rotarians glowed with pride as their country’s flag was called and paraded toward the flags podium showing Rotary’s presence in 200 nations. The Ceremony also featured the Rotary milestones with the organization’s top priority being the Polio eradication. Guest speakers who joined the Rotarians in this global celebration included Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, South Korean Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn and United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-mon.

This is the one-stop source for food, entertainment, networking, educational, and cultural experiences for Rotarians during the Convention. Booths showcasing Rotary projects, Rotary Fellowships and Rotary Action Groups were set-up along with shops for Rotary-licensed merchandise. Participants also got to wear the Hanbok and pose for camera in this traditional Korean garb.

Fellowship Night – Rotary International Districts 3850 and 3600 (May 29, Sunday)

Held at Guri, Hangang Park, this joint fellowship between the RI D3850 and D3600 was well attended. Rotarians from the two districts gathered in a picnic dinner at this scenic part of the Han River, sharing experiences and merriments through dancing and singing and yes, soju! The Filipinos, of course, raised D3850’s banner and the Philippine flag by singing the ever-popular song of Freddie Aguilar, “Anak”. Fellowship Lunch – Rotary Clubs of Boracay and Jindo (May 30, Monday) This is the official fellowship /meet-and-greet of the two Clubs since their sisterhood agreement signing last April at Busan, South Korea. The only representatives from Boracay then was PE Teresa Fajilan-Bech and Incoming Secretary Aldo Yap. This time, the Rotarians from Jindo (RI D3610) were able to meet their counterparts in Boracay (RI D3850) during the luncheon meeting hosted by the Korean club. RC of Jindo President Jong-On Park welcomed the Boracay delegates with warm words and a few shots of soju. The luncheon was joined by RI D3610 Governor Junglim Kim and spouse, and RI D3850 Governor Oliver Ong with spouse, Lady Carol. Closing Ceremony (June 1, Wednesday) True to the Rotary year theme, Be a Gift to the World, the Closing Ceremony of the Korea Convention was filled with inspiring stories of survival, camaraderie, fellowship, individual and organization successes. Rotarians and guests were also treated to a show of Korean and international performances. The Ceremony aptly culminated with the Tree of Peace / Ganggangsullae (Traditional Korean Communal Dance).

BORACAY SUN

ROTARY BORACAY

Rotary Club of Boracay formally inducts president-elect, incoming officers Beth Jalea

20th year. The Club’s 20th year marks an important milestone – the establishment of PRC BoracayMalay’s blood collecting unit and blood station, the first project of the Club with the support of it’s sister-club, the Rotary Club of Jindo.

During the Induction Ceremony led by RI D3850 Governor-Elect Ronnie Gabalda, President-Elect Teresa Fajilan-Bech along with the Club’s new set of officers swore into office and pledged to put into practice the Rotary motto, Service Above Self.

In addition to the current roster of members, the Club accepted two new members into its midst. Asst. District Governor Raphy Tayco inducted new Rtns. William Laput and Aisa Levai.

ast June 18, the Rotary Club of Boracay formally inducted its president-elects and incoming officers for the Rotary Year 2016-2017, at Sea Wind Resort Boracay.

In front of the special guests from the Rotary Club of Jindo, Korea, DGE Ronnie and ADG Raphy Tayco, Teresa accepted the gong and gavel from Immediate Past President Toby Moeckel in a symbolic transfer of responsibility. Preceding the ceremony was IPP Toby’s presentation of the Club’s accomplishments and projects from the previous year. Teresa will be serving as President on the Club’s

ROTARY CLUB OF BORACAY NEW SET OF OFFICERS, RY 2016 – 2017 • • • • • • •

President: Ma. Teresa Fajilan-Bech Vice President: Marlo Schoenenberger Secretary: Aldo F. Yap Club Membership Chair: Flordeliza Gamo Public Relations: Joann “AJ” Barrios Foundation Chair: Douglas Fabilane Treasurer: Wilson O. Suaboksan

| JULY 2016

BORACAY SUN

ADVERTORIAL

| JULY 2016

Did you know? F.L. Castro

It is physically impossible to break an egg with two fingers; one on top and one on the bottom

Jellyfish have no brains

Little Island Montessori Center officially opens

he Little Islander Montessori Center opened its doors and celebrated the official day by a ribbon cutting last June 17 at Sitio Din-iwid. Honorable Congresswoman Baby Arenas led the ceremony along with special guests, Mr. Chris Arenas, Ms. Jo Dy, Mr. & Mrs. Patrick De Rivera, Mr. & Mrs. Virgilio Sacdalan, Mr. Jessie Flores and the Ortanez family. The blessing ceremony was officiated by Father Boyd who prayed over the school and staffs of TLIMC. Guests were able to observe how a big multi-level classroom, where tables and chairs was placed and shelves filled with Montessori materials were displayed, transformed into a learning environment, a place where the children will grow to love learning. TLIMC has a promising program prepared for their students. Their holistic approach focuses on the child’s delicate developmental stage that would prepare him for life.

When walt Disney was younger, he applied for a job at a newspaper and was rejected because he was “not creative”

A female bear is called a sow

Vikings used to let women handle finances because they considered arithmetic to be witchcraft

Ariel (The Little Mermaid) is the daughter of Triton, who’s the son of Poseidon. and Hercules (Hercules) is the son of Zeus, who’s poseidon’s brother. So technically, that would make Hercules Ariel’s uncle

DEGUSTATION MENU

Chef Omar Ugoletti presents a 5-course degustation menu of Southern European fare, fit for kings and queens. For inquiries and reservations, call (63 36) 288 4988 or email restaurantreservations.slbo@shangri-la.com.

#MyShangriLaBoracay

#ShangBoraRima

BORACAY SUN

special press release

HEALTH

| JULY 2016

The benefits of deep breathing Elmar terlutter

ost of us take our breathing for granted; it just happens all day long, all night long. However, because of this, we often breathe in a shallow way. Deep breathing is a way to expand the lungs and the diaphragm so that we can increase oxygen to tissues. The act of deep breathing is relaxing, and provides a massage to the lymphatic system. Set aside five minutes each day to practice focused, deep breathing.

including the heart rate variability, blood pressure, pulse rate, plus the measuring of your breathing. Then you see how your heart react on different kind of breathing and you learn how important it is for well being. With this diagnosis system, you get to know how you can influence your health through the best method of breathing for you. Special breathing and yoga courses can also help you learn how to breathe best for your individual situation and the need of your body. How to breathe deeply

Deep breathing is an excellent way to deal with anxiety and stress without having to take medication. Deep breathing stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, slows down the heart rate, and causes the whole body to relax. When we take in more oxygen, our bodies are better able to get rid of toxins.

Be sure that you are in an upright position. Place you hand an inch away from your belly button. Take a deep breathe in through your nose and allow your abdomen to expand. Release the air slowly through pursed lips. You should feel a burst of At the Liberty Gardens Health & Wellness energy pulsing through your body. Centre, there is a diagnosis system where Inhale for four seconds deeply you get your autonomous system measured and exhale for four seconds slowly.

Zika Virus Vaccine: Human Trials to be Launched Marian Castro Ordillo

Photo from http://pbs.twimg.com/

he United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) recently issued clearance to initiate human testing of experimental DNA vaccines for Zika Virus. Spearheaded by Inovio Pharmaceuticals (Pennsylvania, USA) in partnership with GeneOne Life Science (Seoul, South Korea), both specializing in research and development of vaccines for chronic diseases, their Presidents and CEOs made the simultaneous announcement last June 20. The aim of this collaboration is to conduct initial testing of the vaccine called GLS-5700 to 40 human adult volunteers focusing on dosage, safety, risks and body immune responses. The Zika virus was first discovered in

1947 on an infected rhesus monkey which inhabited the Zika Forest in Uganda, from where its name had originated. A year later it was recovered from a mosquito called, Aedes aegypti, which is also responsible for the spread of other diseases like dengue fever, chikungunya and yellow fever. From Africa, the virus has sporadically made its way to the South Pacific, South and Central America, and the Caribbean regions within the past few decades. This virus can infect anyone not only thru mosquito bites but also through sexual contact. Symptoms of this virus include mild fever, malaise, skin rash, usually accompanied by conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain. Zika Virus is also linked to Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and microcephaly among infants whose mothers were infected by the virus during pregnancy. At present, there is no available cure for the said disease. The highest number of affected individuals rose from Brazil wherein more than 4,000 babies were born with incredibly small heads. In 2014, El Salvador even pleaded their citizens to delay pregnancy until the prevention and cure for this disease has been fully understood. As per the World Health Organization’s (WHO) situation report released last April 28, 42 countries are experiencing a first outbreak of Zika virus since 2015, with

www.astrosage.com

no previous evidence of circulation and with ongoing transmission by mosquitoes, while 9 countries have reported evidence of personto-person transmission of Zika virus, probably via a sexual route. Inovio’s President & CEO, Dr. J. Joseph Kim stated, “We are proud to have attained the approval to initiate the first Zika vaccine study in human volunteers. As of May 2016, 58 countries and territories reported continuing mosquito-borne transmission of the Zika virus; the incidences of viral infection and medical conditions caused by the virus are expanding, not contracting.” Mr. Young K. Park, GeneOne Life Science’s President & CEO, said, “It is an honor for our company to help usher this Zika vaccine through the clinical and regulatory process. We look forward to conducting this trial with the goal of achieving products to combat this dreaded virus.” Kim also points out that they plan to dose their initial subjects in a couple of weeks and expects to obtain Phase I interim reports later this year. Inovio is also known for remarkable works in developing DNA immunotherapy against multiple strains of Ebola Virus, including the strains responsible for the 2014 outbreak.

Basic Criteria for Blood Donors: 1. Age First time donors

16-59 years old (16-17 should bear with them a consent letter signed by parent or guardian)

Regular Donors

16-65 years old

2. Weight

At least 110 lbs. or 50 kgs.

3. Health Status

Qualified based on Donor Assessment

DEGUSTATION MENU

Mad for Crab Fruits of the Sea Chef Omar Ugoletti presents a 5-course degustation menu of Southern European fare, fit for kings and queens. For inquiries and reservations, call (63 36) 288 4988 or email restaurantreservations.slbo@shangri-la.com.

Feast on the sweet succulence of your favorite seafood, prepared in a myriad delectable ways. Sirenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chef Chia Jue Xian brings to your table the freshest catch of the day, just the way you like it. For inquiries and reservations, call (63 36) 288 4988 or email restaurantreservations.slbo@shangri-la.com. #MyShangriLaBoracay

#MyShangriLaBoracay

#ShangBoraRima

#ShangBoraSirena