Boracay Sun | June 2017 Issue

JUNE 2017 ISSUE | VOL. VII NO. 05 | BORACAY’S MONTHLY NEWS ON RECYCLED PAPER

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COMPLETE LIST WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE...

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IN THE NEWS LIFESTYLE ENVIRONMENT CENTERFOLD 7107 ISLANDS EXPAT FILES PEOPLE HEALTH

WEDDINGS IN PARADISE BLANCHE POSADAS-BASCO

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very girl dreams of being proposed to, and have the most stunning wedding in a romantic setting. Wearing a classic lace bridal gown, she imagines herself walking down the aisle while holding a bouquet of creamy ivory calla lilies. Her groom, waiting at the altar, lost for words at the sight of the beautiful bride.

Exchanging vows with the glimmering white sand under their feet.

IN THE NEWS

Where else should be a dreamy destination wedding must take place but only in Boracay? Couples celebrate their marriage here because the island has a lot to offer in just one package. The ocean, decorated with powdery white sand, becomes the quintessential backdrop. Family and friends will also be glad to travel to witness the nuptials because they also can’t wait to have an extended stay in the island and have a

BFI starts monthlong 20th anniversary celebration

LIFESTYLE

Of Friends and Wedding Bells

ENVIRONMENT

>>> PAGE 04

>>> PAGE 06

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Boracaynons save the whale

separate mini vacation of their own. Lastly, a tropical honeymoon awaits the newlyweds.

Each love story told in a beach wedding is heard sweeter under the painted blue sky. With a romantic sunset to wrap up the intimate event, the island beautifully exudes a relaxing and unforgettable moment of love.

CENTERFOLD More than just Boracay >>> PAGE 10

PEOPLE

Paul was a stubborn child: A tribute >>> PAGE 14

WEDLOCK AND FREEDOM

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June is actually our favorite month, second only to December, and not considering the peak summer months that’s always a joy. (Okay, fine, it’s always joyous in Boracay) The month of June is almost always referred to as the wedding month. So much so that this month, we give in to romance – we feature a long-enduring love story that culminated in our beautiful shores. It’s heartwarming to note that our little tropical island is dreamed of not only as a summer getaway but also as a destination for weddings.

Each of us has his or her own love story to tell. There may be bumps and slides in the middle but in the end, we dream of a happy ending. In our hearts we believe may forever – the same belief that we have for our independence, our freedom.

In our lifestyle section, our young friends share with us the different definitions of freedom. It’s true, freedom could be as simple as an 8 year-old’s desire to choose what to wear. It’s also as complicated as an LGBT member’s cry to be out in the open without being discriminated.

In another note, freedom can also be as sad and noble as dying for our country. Our deepest condolences to the family of Paul, a fallen hero in uniform, and a victim of that anomalous purchases of the past administration. A detestable act which we hope is not forever for it mars our celebration of independence - one that our forefathers paid for with their own blood and tears.

COVER

By PlayLife Team -

YOUR BORACAY SUN FAMILY

Bordoy Photography

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

MA. TERESA FAJILAN

The best to spend on your relationship is time, conversation, understanding and honesty. ~ Lifehack.org When people throw you stones, because you are a good tree full of fruits. They see a lot of harvest in you. Do not go down to their level by throwing them back the stones, but throw them your FRUITS so the seeds of yourself may inspire them to change their ways. ~ Anonymous A kiss on the forehead is truly sweeter than so many kisses on the lips. Its full of LOVE and RESPECT! ~ Heartfeltquotes.com Be the kind of person that no matter where you go or where you are, you always add value to the lives of those around you.

theboracaysun

theboracaysun

Contributors JUN ARIOLO AGUIRRE, KATHLEEN DAROY MARIAN CASTRO-ORDILLO, NIÑO ROGIEN TEODOSIO, GLESI LYN SINAG, MARY ANN SOLIS Contributing Photographers ISLA GRAPIKA, JACK JARILLA, PLAYLIFE TEAM BY BORDOY PHOTOGRAPHY 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

~ Anonymous

boracay.sun

Columnists JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS, KLAUS DORING, HOLLY GOLIGHTLY, SPO1 CHRISTOPHER DEL ROSARIO MENDOZA

theboracaysun

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

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

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IN THE NEWS

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JUNE 2017

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POLICE DESK

Boracay police joins Brigada Eskwela SPO1 CHRISTOPHER DEL ROSARIO MENDOZA

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embers of the Boracay Tourist Assistance Center joined the Annual Brigada Eskwela or the School Maintenance Week of the Department of Education held on May

15 to 19.

With this year’s theme, “Isang DepEd, Isang Pamayanan, Isang Bayanihan Para sa Handa at Ligtas na Paaralan,” the island’s police force helped repair

chairs, table, water system, repaint walls, and clean classrooms and the school surroundings.

Police Inspector Telmigi Majuk, chief of BTAC police community relations section and Inspector Dexter Brigido, chief of intelligence section led the personnel of Boracay PNP and PNP FTP Class Mabagsik of 2016 in the joint opening program of the Boracay National High School-Main Campus and Balabag Elementary School.

The opening program started with a civic parade from Balabag Plaza going to the two schools. PINSP Majuk accepted the challenge of these schools and encouraged other stakeholders to take part in said activity.

Other participating agencies were the Boracay Island Water Company, PARDSS-Boracay, and Philippine

Army Reservists together with the students, parents and teachers.

Aside from Boracay National High School-Main Campus and Balabag Elementary School, the group also joined the Brigada Eskwela at Boracay National High SchoolManocmanoc Ext, Manocmanoc Elementary School, Lamberto H Tirol National High School and Yapak Elementary School Brigada Eskwela is part of Balik Eskwela Program in preparation for the opening of school calendar year this June 5.

LGU-Malay activates Joint Task Force Boracay KAREN BERMEJO

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fter a successful capability demonstration activity, the Local Government Unit of Malay has officially activated the Joint Task Force Boracay last May 20.

Joint Task Force Boracay is created by virtue of Municipal Resolution No. 0022017 which aims to strengthen the capability of the LGU-Malay in detecting, preventing and neutralizing any threats in Boracay and the mainland.

It will be headed by Executive Assistant for Boracay Affairs Rowen Aguirre.

The task force will be divided in three sub-groups: the Task Group on Maritime Security and Safety, Task Group Peace and Order and Task Group Emergency Preparedness.

The task force will be composed of members of the local Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, PNP-Maritime Group, Philippine Navy, Philippine Army, Bureau of Fire Protection, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Malay Auxiliary Police of the LGU-Malay and Boracay Fire Rescue & Ambulance Volunteers (BFRAV), among others.

Meanwhile, the simulation exercise showed the capability of the group in handling

threats to island’s security and order.

Aside from the local task force, the Maritime Joint Task Force (MJTF) “Area Shield” which is under the jurisdiction of the Central Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines was also activated.

The MJTF Area Shield is activated to secure all the maritime waters and coastlines, and even hinterlands in the region from all threats of terrorism.

Boracay will be under the Task Force Protect of the MJTF Area Shield.

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BFI CORNER

IN THE NEWS

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BFI starts month-long 20th anniversary celebration

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JUNE 2017

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on May 21 with the support of the Philippine Red Cross-Boracay Malay and Capiz chapters. The bloodletting drive was aimed to raise awareness on the importance of blood donation which will benefit patients and tourists in the island needing blood transfusion.

Still part of its anniversary celebration is “Paint My Love”, a painting and beautification activity at Balabag Elementary School held from May 26 to 30.

A medical and dental mission for Malay residents, dubbed as “REACH OUT: Boracay and Beyond” is set on June 4 at Barangay Poblacion with a target of 500 beneficiaries.

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ome June 10, homegrown organization, Boracay Foundation, Inc. (BFI), will be celebrating its 20th year anniversary.

To commemorate its two decades of success, BFI has started its month-long celebration with an underwater clean-up activity on May 15 followed by a bloodletting drive on May 21.

The underwater water clean-up is part of BFI’s Boracay Forever program, in partnership with the Philippine Mermaid Swimming Academy (PMSA), Boracay Business Administration of Scuba Schools (BBASS) and the Local Government Unit of Malay.

It was joined by over 100 volunteers composed of divers, snorkelers, “mermaids,” and paddlers, and

has gathered 274 kilograms of trash - mostly plastic materials, cigarette butts and bamboo fragments.

Led by BBASS and PMSA, the cleanup was also joined by members of Standup Paddlers of Boracay, Junior Paddlers of Boracay All Stars, Boracay Tourist Assistance Center, Boracay Multisports, and Boracay European International School, and several locals.

A total of 26 divers helped remove trash from artificial reef domes at the coral garden managed by the BFI. The remaining 82 volunteers snorkeled, paddled and cleaned up at the White Beach during the one-hour cleanup.

“Removing shells dominating the reef domes will allow corals to grow more,” said Haron Deo Vargas, a marine biologist for the Environmental Management Services Unit of the LGU-Malay.

Normeth Preglo Parzhuber of the PPMSA said the activity should be an eye-opener for the volunteers and the general public emphasizing the role of corals for Boracay.

Meanwhile, BFI’s blood drive dubbed as Bleed for Cause has produced 63 blood bags or a total of 28,350 cc of blood. The activity was held at Henann Lagoon

BFI’s 20th grand anniversary celebration culminates on June 10 at Henann Regency Resort and Spa with a benefit dinner and the inauguration of the organization’s newly-elected board of directors.

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IN THE NEWS

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PCGA Boracay celebrates 30th year

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he Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) Squadron 609th Boracay is commemorating its 30th anniversary this year.

With just 10 people when it was formed in 1987 by Rear Admiral Leonard Tirol, the Squadron now has 100 members. RADM Tirol is a Past Squadron Director & Past District Director. Through his leadership, the group received the Best Squadron award in Western Visayas thrice, and has also hosted three PCGA national conventions.

The Squadron is composed of members of different professions serving the community, assisting the Philippine Coast Guard in search and rescue mission and in the conduct of different activities for the the protection and preservation of marine environment and its resources.

At present, the Director of the Squadron is Captain

Peter Tay, a technical diving instructor with over 25 years of experience, a certified emergency first respond instructor trainer and a certified lifeguard instructor.

About PCGA

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Call centers for tourism eyed JUN N. AGUIRRE

PCGA is a service-oriented, uniformed, voluntary organization. It is a non-government, non-political organization whose membership adheres to the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) customs and traditions.

Its organizational structure is parallel to PCG and has its own chain of leadership and management.

The PCGA was established in 1972 through Republic Act No. 5173 initially for the purpose of assisting the Philippine Coast Guard in the conduct of search and rescue and safety of boats at sea. The PCGA organization eventually expanded and now officially covered under Section 11 of Republic Act Number 9993, otherwise known as the PCG Law of 2009.

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The organization’s primary functions include providing support and assistance to PCG in the promotion of safety of life and property at sea, the preservation of the marine environment and its resources, the conduct of maritime search and rescue, the maintenance of aids to navigation, recreational safety and such other activities that enhance maritime community relations which include civic action, participation under the National Service Training Program, youth development, and other related activities.

To note, the Aklan Provincial Government, the Department of Tourism and the Royal Caribbean Cruise Ltd. (RCCL) has forged an understanding in promoting Boracay a cruise ship hub. “We are eyeing the space beside the Caticlan Jetty Port as a possible venue for interested locators,” Bernabe said.

The new Coast Guard law maintained the exercise of direct control and supervision of the PCGA by the Commandant, PCG and its duly designated representatives in supervising the over-all activities of the PCGA. Hence, the advent of RA 9993 legislated and further strengthened the bond between the PCG and the PCGA towards achieving a safe, clean and secure marine environment for the entire Filipino people.

If you have a heart to serve and would like to join the most prestige volunteer organization in the Philippine, you may email info@pcga609boracay.org or log on to www.pcga609boracay.org for more information.

he Aklan Provincial Government is currently looking for locators in the establishment of a Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) specializing in travel industry.

Marsh Bernabe, a member of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Council said Aklan is now ripe to host BPO companies. Bernabe said that the ICT-Aklan Council has opted for a travelspecialized BPO since the province has forged a memorandum of understanding in making Caticlan a cruise ship hub.

The provincial government has allocated 500 scholarship grants for residents who wanted to work. Bernabe, however, said one locator in the BPO industry could hire to as much as 3,000 employees. Aside from the travel industry, small and medium entrepreneurs (SME’s) in the province and in this resort island could also benefit from the cruise ship hub. “The ICT Council will be lobbying to the RCCL management that our SME products will be displayed at the cruise ship for sale to boost the revenues of our entrepreneurs in the province,” he said.

The DTI through its GoNegosyo Center Mentor Me Program has chosen 20 SME’s in Aklan to be fully trained to become masters on entrepreneurship. Many of them specialize in producing souvenir items and the like.

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LIFESTYLE

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Of Friends and Wedding Bells MARIAN CASTRO-ORDILLO PHOTO BY PLAYLIFE TEAM BY BORDOY PHOTOGRAPHY

Birth) and so was Tein. So, the first three years of their relationship was a bit of a struggle for both parties.

“There’s a lot of frustration because we were both adjusting to everything. Expectations were never met, and we fought a lot, even for the shallowest reasons.

Until such time that we thought we couldn’t be together anymore and called it off,” Jaja tells me.

They first broke up during New Year’s Day of 2007.

Cupid never sleeps, though. After all the tears shed and all those sleepless nights, Jaja decided she was ready to move on no matter how hard it would take.

Only to find Einstein at her doorstep two days after Christmas of the same year begging her to get back together, telling her how he missed her so much.

“Siyempre pinahirapan ko muna siya. Ang lagay eh, ganon nalang iyon,” narrates Jaja.

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ebruary 25, 2017.

Here comes the bride, All dressed in white.

While the rest of the country was celebrating the 31st Anniversary of the EDSA Revolution, I was in another part of the country, at the Holy Rosary Church in Boracay Island – wiping my tears as I witness my high school bff, Jasmin, walk down the aisle in her beautiful white gown.

Everybody was in awe, most especially Einstein, her groom.

While Jaja was walking way down the aisle, flashes of memories rushed through my head on how she and Tein have conquered everything just to get there.

Right at that moment. The end of their singlehood but the beginning of a new chapter of their amazing love story.

I gave out a sigh of relief as Tein finally clutched her hand firmly while smiling sweetly at his bride.

I thought, “Forever really does exist.”

Jaja and Tein first met in 2003. She was a sophomore at Ateneo de Manila University, while he was finishing up his Masters in Biology at the same university. Tein worked as a teaching aid then and handled Jaja’s bio lab class. As sparks flew, they started regularly getting in touch thru text and email after that semester and eventually became a couple.

“There was no formal courtship that happened,” Jasmin says. “We just clicked, that’s it.”

I asked Tein how Jaja gave her “yes” and I got the funniest response ever.

“Well, she told me, basta boyfriend na kita ha,” says Tein.

Being her friend for almost two decades that really sounded like Jasmin. No negotiations. No hearts and flowers. Simple as that. Straight to the point.

Jaja was an NBSB type of girl (No Boyfriend Since

It took a few months of Tein’s pursuit to win back Jaja’s love again, until she decided to move and work in Singapore. Tein helped her with everything and even decided to fly with her to help her get settled and all.

me realize that I want to spend the rest of my life with her,” shares Tein.

Finally, on the 8th of July, 2008, Jaja decided to put off her guard and got back with him while they were both onboard the plane bound to Singapore.

“He’s my soul mate. I know in my heart, that if we never got back together, I will never ever find anyone else who would love me just as I am---who will stand by my side no matter what and will accept all of my imperfections,” says Jaja.

When asked how they knew that they were meant for each other, their answers reflect a couple who shares the same heart and soul.

The Proposal

“She is truly a good-natured and kind-hearted person.

There was no specific moment that made me perceive that she is the one for me. It’s the whole experience of being with her through all these years which made

Einstein shares that he had already bought a ring beforehand and was thinking of the perfect timing and ways to propose. He wanted it to be simple but intimate. When they ended up planning their first trip to London and Paris, he thought it would be the perfect time to do it.

On December 27, 2015, Einstein asked Jasmin to marry him while they were underneath the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Why Boracay?

The couple says that Boracay Island is one of their favorite travel spots. As the white sands are inviting, the beach is perfect and the sunset is just so lovely.

Getting married here was one of their ultimate dreams.

They also mentioned that they have attended a friend’s wedding here and they both fell in love on how beautiful that it turned out, hence, Boracay became their top choice.

As wedding vows were exchanged, folks hugged and shared wedding wishes, wedding bouquet thrown and garter caught, all the perfect imperfections of a wedding ceremony and the reception party, with Jasmin, being the most beautiful girl of the day and Einstein, the most handsome gentleman--- one thing prevailed, and I have been a witness to that.

Love wins, love always wins. *Jasmin, 32, is a Relocation Consultant while Einstein, 36, is a Web Designer. They are both based in Singapore but love to spend their free time traveling.

Among their favorite travel places to visit are Boracay Island, South Korea, London and Paris.

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LIFESTYLE

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What freedom means MARY ANN SOLIS

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une 12, 1898 is a significant date in the Philippine history because it marks our nation’s Independence Day.

Filipinos nowadays continue to live the way they want according to their own beliefs and culture because of our heroes’ sacrifices and love for our country.

Tons of blood and tears were offered thousands of lives vanished when our forefathers faced war for freedom and sovereignty.

Freedom means a lot to those who experienced cruelty, for them it means life and death. For some of us, freedom means expressing thoughts and opinions. Now let me ask you what exactly is your definition of freedom?

“Freedom is when I can play and sometimes use a cellphone and choose the clothes I love to wear without my mother’s permission.” ~ Margel Avery D. Custodio, 8 yr old girl “Freedom as an LGBT member means going out in the open where you can be yourself without the worry of being discriminated, being looked down upon, being judged by people who calls themselves righteous.

Freedom for us is when we are no longer chained to society’s standards of normalcy, that we can be treated equally, that we can be seen as the human that we are and not some animal or alien that most people treat us to be.” ~ Dane Tolinero, LGBT Community Member “As an OFW in Japan, freedom is gained by respecting Japanese cultures and law. Of course they also respect our culture but on case to case basis. Other than that,

we are free to go anywhere, free in freedom of speech as foreigners, they respect what and who we are. ~ Rose Delco, Overseas Filipino Worker in Japan “It is still the same, because as far as I know, even though I was too young when martial law occurred, oldies said they had no right to talk, to comment. People were afraid of the military because they have put the law on their hands - when they wanted to kill, they would do without hesitation, they didn’t care because they were protected by Marcos.

This is the reason why people clamor for vfreedom ~ Fe J. Sabino, Martial Law Baby “Freedom as media practitioner for me is the ability for us to express our views, opinions, stands, and even our hope and aspiration in life to either motivate, discourage, or to provoke or to oppose, to mandate or to serve people.”

~ Darwin Practitioner

Tapayan,

Media

“For me freedom is a right and this right must be enjoyed by everybody without any standard for its recipient. Freedom allows individual to live, think, decide and grow on his own, free from any suppression and discrimination that hinder his progress.” ~ Jomars P. Lubrique, Teacher In fact, freedom is a wonderful word which has certainly no particular definition.People are free to express their own thoughts about it, it can be about social, religious or political freedom or about personal independence, or as simple as an 8 yrs. old girl’s definition, still in the end it is your choice. The only thing that’s makes that equal is the fact that everyone wants to be free, holds true in all cases.

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ENVIRONMENT

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BORACAYNONS SAVE THE WHALE HOLLY GOLIGHTLY

“You can gauge the greatness of a nation by the treatment of its animals” – Mahatma Ghandi

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ast month, Boracay locals, Bantay Dagat, staff of Municipal Agricultures, Office of Malay, Fisher Folks of Malay, Boracay European International School teachers, Friends of Flying Foxes, animal lovers, Mermaids and divers gathered for a two-day workshop which aims to help government officials and residents of the island learn how to rescue and rehabilitate stranded marine mammals.

Held at The Vessel, Mandala Spa and run by the Philippine Marine Mammal Stranding Network (PMMSN) in association with Project MOM, the event was much anticipated and was expertly curated by ‘Mother Mermaid’, Normeth Preglo Parzhuber and cofounder Anamie Saenz.

What is PMMSN? PMMSN is a network of professionals and volunteers throughout the Philippines who are committed to responding to stranded marine mammals, dead or alive, within the Philippine coastlines.

Marine mammals can become stranded for a number of reasons: they can experience acoustic trauma as a result of blast or dynamite fishing, or they can become entangled in fishing nets, amongst other situations.

The idea for PMMSN came about during a meeting and workshop on marine mammals at Subic Bay in 2003. Then, in 2005 the very first National Marine Mammal Stranding Response Training Workshop was held at Ocean Adventure, Subic Bay. Since then, the dedicated team has travelled all over the country and has delivered over 88 workshops, successfully training over 3,000 people on cetacean emergency first

response and the medical management of stranded marine mammals.

PMMSN offers two training workshops: 1.

2.

Marine Mammal Stranding Response – qualifies the participant as a First Responder Medical Management of Stranded Marine Mammals – for veterinarians and medical professionals

The event on Boracay focused on Level 1, and everyone was firstly introduced to the concept of ‘strandings’, why they happen and why we respond.

Next was the importance of correctly differentiating between the marine mammal species indigenous to the Philippines – these include various species of dolphin, whale and dugong commonly seen in our seas.

The session also included the correct processes used to safely and successfully handle the mammals in a First Response situation, as well as how to correctly take written and photographic records.

Of utmost importance, safety towards the rescuers was taught, alongside ways and measures the rescuers can reduce stress in the stranded creature while performing the rescue.

Real-Life Rescue Then it was time for volunteers to carry out a ‘reallife’ rescue! Trainees took to White Beach and a game volunteer put on a mermaid tail, courtesy of the Philippine Mermaid Swimming Academy, to mimic a stranded marine mammal. Rescuers split into two teams and the trainers gave each team different rescue scenarios to manage. It was a chance for trainees to put their newly gained knowledge to the test!

Medical management, rehabilitation and long-term care

of the mammal were covered and to test their new knowledge, trainees were given a final exam at the end. Everyone passed with flying colors, and left the workshops armed with the confidence and ability to manage a marine mammal stranding situation.

Said Normeth, organiser of the event: “This is our way of creating awareness through education. As a child, I used to destroy corals and poisonous fish, and I witnessed a whale being shot by the local police thinking it was a danger to swimmers. I did not know the importance of the ocean to humans, and I did not know that sharks and marine mammals are necessary for humans to survive. I did not know so I did not care.

“The Philippine Mermaid Swimming Academy would like to thank the following people for making this important and educational workshop a success: Our guest speakers from PMMSN Dr.Lem Aragones and Dr. Leo Suarez; our major sponsors Diniview Villas, Hangin Kite Resort, Seb’varia Bar & Restaurant, and Mandala Spa. Lastly, thanks to BISDAKK, Dive Gurus, PCTV and SB member Nenette Graf for sponsoring some important individuals to attend the workshop.”

How you can help PMMSA save our marine mammals and educate the public on the importance of marine mammal conservation: • Become a member: visit www.pmmsn.org • Make a donation: they accept donations in cash and in kind. They need equipment and supplies, such as medical equipment, transport equipment, printed IEC materials, medicine and more.

If you would like to donate any of these items, or want to know in what other ways you can donate, please call: (063) 47 252 8494, email:bgespinos@ pmmsn.org, or visit www.pmmsn.org – also find them on Facebook.

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ENVIRONMENT

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JUNE 2017

RedVolution: Youth leads campaign against single-use plastic KAREN BERMEJO

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o help reduce single-use plastic consumption in this tourist island, members of the Red Cross Youth (RCY)-Boracay Malay Chapter led a 21-day advocacy campaign dubbed as “ReDVolution.”

As part of the campaign, which started on May 15 and will end on June 12, 21 RCY members will have to show one-act per dayon ways to reduce plastic useon their social networking sites.Single-use plastic is any plastic used once before being disposed or recycled such as grocery bags, food wrappers, and bottles.

Rona Liza Inocencio, officer-in-charge of Philippine Red Cross-Boracay Malay, said the campaign was based on thetheory of American Doctor Maxwell Maltz that it would require a minimum of about 21 days to form a habit.

“Caring for the environment should be a habit,” said Inocencio, adding that plastic has become a threat to the fragile environment of Boracay.

Elena Brugger, PRC-Boracay Malay Board of Director and chairperson for RCY service, said the campaign aims to enjoin the Boracay community to help in environment protection.

Twelve-year old RCY member Kirsten Dawn Fabilane said she is joining the REDvolution project for she believes that the youth plays a big role in protecting the environment. “Our young minds are capable of generating infinite ideas that can help develop a better environment for the next generation, all while developing ourselves for our future,” said Fabilane.

RCY-Boracay Malay President Raven Palomar likewise encouragesher fellow youth, especially students to join the RedVolution advocacy. She said reducing the usage of single-use plastic on a daily basis can create significant impact on the environment.

Simple ways to reduce single-use plastic: • • • • • • • •

Refuse plastic straws in restaurants or secure your own stainless straw Always bring your own eco-bags when shopping Use sacks instead of plastic garbage bags Buy drinks in paper-box packaging instead of plastic Bring food container when buying take-out food Bring own utensils when eating fast food Make your own snacks than buying single packed biscuits/junked foods Always bring your own tumbler

Boracay hosts Visayas-wide RYC leadership training The Philippine Red Cross Boracay Malay Chapter hosted the first Visayas-wide leadership training activity in line with its Red Cross Youth program.

The 10-day Youth Instructor’s Training Course held from May 20 to 30 was participated by 20 participants from Negros Island, Bohol, Cebu, Iloilo and Boracay.

The activity aims to train volunteer youth leaders to facilitate leadership development program courses by building their knowledge, skills, attitude, and appreciation towards teaching and collaborative learning. The training also aimed to create an active pool of RCY volunteer instructors from the region.

The highlight of the training is a field practicum wherein participants served as trainers to other youth in the island. Trainers from PRC Manila and Davao served as instructors during the activity.

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CENTERFOLD

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More than just Boracay:

Malay showcases mainland attractions, Fiesta de Obreros

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KAREN BERMEJO

PHOTOS BY ISLA GRAPIKA

lready known for its paradisiacal island, Malay dares to prove that it is more than just Boracay. As cultural-tourism starts to boom, the Local Government of Malay through its Municipal Tourism Office is already making steps ahead. As Boracay continues to gain popularity, a big chunk of tourists is also starting to notice the attention-worthy attractions in the mainland.

Some of which, we are lucky to visit courtesy of the Municipal Tourism Office as part of the Fiesta de Obreros Celebration. So here’s a glimpse of the places and the colorful festival we experienced a month ago.

Malay Eco Park Motag Living Museum To get a perfect glimpse of how the Malaynons actually lived a long time ago, then Motag Living Museum is a must to visit. The place is a unique representation of the well-preserved local heritage of the Malaynons.

It is actually the only cultural interactive museum in the Philippines and recommended by the Philippine Carabao Center and the Philippine Conservation Society.

The museum aims to impart to the new generation the importance of the local culture – the Malaynon culture Located in Barangay Argao, the eco-park’s main attraction is its beautiful butterfly farm.

Tourists will surely enjoy a walk inside the sanctuary planted with fruit bearing trees, while being surrounded by the colorful butterflies. The park likewise houses the distinct flora and fauna only endemic in the town.

On its highest peak, one can have a view of Boracay from afar.

Nabaoy River Nabaoy is about 30 minutes away from Caticlan Jetty Port. It has crystal clean river stretching the village.

Along the riverside are huts and restaurants that offer native dishes and delicacies for tourists. With its calm water, the river is a favorite spot for swimming and even rafting for some.

and the traditional farm life. Guests are introduced on the various farm activities and the traditional household materials used by the locals before. The museum showcases how locals turn simple natural products into useful things.

From being just mere spectators, guests can participate in performing some activities along with the museum guides who are mostly seniors and actual residents of the village. After the activities, all are then treated to real Malaynon taste through traditional foods like suman, cassava cakes and pinipig.

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BORACAY SUN

CENTERFOLD

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Fiesta de Obreros Even before Laboracay, Malay already celebrates its labor sector through its annual Fiesta de Obreros held every May 1. The religious town fiesta is in honor of St. Joseph the Worker, Malay’s Patron Saint and also to pay tribute to all workers.

This year, the Labor Day celebration in Malay became a colorful presentation of the rich culture and tradition of the town which is celebrating its 14th Fiesta de Obreros. In contrast to the loud and chaotic Labor Day celebration in Boracay, the Malay festivity showcased choreographed dance performances from the talented Malaynons.

“This is a celebration of Malaynons’ true culture and tradition,” said Felix delos Santos, Malay chief tourism officer. This year’s festivity, according to Delos Santos focused more on the uniqueness of each participating barangays as a product of the recent cultural mapping project of the Municipal Tourism Office of Malay. “The cultural mapping allowed us to know ourselves and we want to showcase it to the rest of the world, especially to our tourists,” he said.

What makes this year’s festival grander also is the presence of Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Promotions Board Cesar Montano. Commending the local government for preserving its tradition, Montano likewise pledged to help the promotion of mainland areas.

Meanwhile, out of the 17 Malay barangays, 12 showcased their respective culture through their colorful and lively performances. Barangay Balusbos emerged as champion and even took home all the minor awards including Best in Street Dancing, Best in Choreography and Best in Production Design. Barangays Sambiray and Caticlan meanwhile ranked second and third, respectively. Balusbos brought home the PhP50,000 top prize and another PhP35,000 from minor awards. Meanwhile, Sambiray and Caticlan received PhP40,000 and PhP30,000, respectively. Other participating barangays each received PhP10,000 as consolation prizes.

A day or two is never enough to fully experience what mainland Malay can offer.

There are still too many places to visit – Nagata Falls, Pangihan Cave, Naasug Point, Agnaga Mini Falls, among others.

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JUNE 2017

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BORACAY SUN

7107 ISLANDS

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JUNE 2017

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More Than Sand, Sea, and Saint GLESI LYN T. SINAG

Unlike the mangroves in Bakhawan Eco-park in Kalibo which were planted in straight lines and were trimmed regularly, mangroves in Ibajay are naturally propagated and allowed to sprawl all over the place.

While the Bakhawan project was initiated to mitigate the flood and over-siltation that usually affects the low marshlands, the Katunggan it Ibajay started out as local people’s effort to stop chainsaw owners from cutting down trees and converting forests into fishponds.

Y

es, it is a must to visit the radiant white sands of Boracay, or lose yourself in the loud beating of the drums and bask in the colorful costumes of Ati Atihan, but there is more to Aklan than just a handful of “must see” sights and “must experience” festivals. Here are some of alternative places that show Aklan away from the postcard perfect scenery we all are used to.

Katunggan it Ibajay Mangrove Eco-Park Barangays Bugtongbato and Naisud, Ibajay, Aklan

This project is implemented in partnership with Ibajay LGU and the Community-based Mangrove Rehabilitation Project in the Philippines of the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). Minimal fees collected upon entry are used to maintain and develop the bamboo foot walk and other facilities.

Why visit Katunggan it Ibajay? Well, aside from itsdazzling and relaxing ambience, it also serves as a reminder that we have to be concerned with our environmental health. Tourism doesn’t have to mean cutting down trees and razing down mountains.

Katunggan it Ibajay is man’s initiative to preserve nature, just like how God intended it to be. The magnificent view is just a bonus.

Want to walk under the canopy of luscious green leaves enveloped by the symphony of birds and other wildlife creatures? You can certainly experience it here, and more. This 44.22 hectare tourist attraction is filled with mangrove trees sprawling over a long bamboo bridge.

“Nowadays, students coming from different provinces who were having their field trips in Boracay and other tourist spots in Aklan drop by as part of their itinerary,” explained Stella, Cipriano’s daughter.

Lachica’s personal collection of artifacts, antiques and wood sculptures are displayed side by side with his other artworks made up of recycled materials such as old shoes, wine bottles, umbrella handles, and many more. The whole lot is an assortment of different items made of garbage presumed to be worthless and then converted into works of art.

If you do a quick survey of the place, it seems as if everything is dumped haphazardly. But careful inspection will reveal that the artworks have rhyme and reason. Found near the entrance is a year-round Christmas tree made up of different plastic items reminding every visitors that every day is supposed to be Christmas day. An ordinary stone is framed to portray realities which many oftentimes ignore. Several wood sculptures are grouped together with pierced tennis balls to convey the importance of population control. You can sit on benches out of woods or logs recovered after the major storms that hit the province, fitting reminders that something beautiful can be made out of something so horrendous.

Prepare to walk over or crawl under mangrove branches as you walk on the 800-meter foot walk because some branches obstruct the way and it is prohibited to cut any part of any tree. At the end of the bamboo foot way is a group of century-old Apiapi or Bungalon (Avicennia rumphiana) mangrove trees which are endemic in the Philippines. The most remarkable tree is what they call Avatar tree which is 20 meters tall. It has an 8-meter circumference which, according to Reynante Panaligan, Tourist Assistance Officer of LGU Ibajay, makes it “the biggest in the Philippines, if not in Southeast Asia, when it comes to body diameter”. And during January, be captivated by the Piag-aotree as its leaves turn a brilliant yellow, orange and red before it fall off.

This eco-park is considered the most diverse natural growth mangrove community in the Philippines and Southeast Asia as confirmed by the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center-Aquaculture Department (SEAFDEC-AQD). It is home to 28 out of 35, or 80 percent of Philippine mangrove species.

the garden was made known not only to the people in the neighboring barangays but also to the nearby municipalities.

And if by any chance you feel hungry after turning over and looking at countless items, there is a café inside serving affordable snacks and refreshing drinks.

Basura Garden Poblacion, Balete In the middle of bustling Poblacion in Balete is a onehectare compound filled with artworks and sculptures made with recycled garbage materials, hence the name Basura Garden.

Basura Garden started out as a personal collection of Cipriano Lachica, back in 1990’s. Its purpose is to create a haven of inspiration for the family, to evoke their innate creative nature or talent. The number of his artworks gradually grew and began to take over their whole yard.Neighbors began to notice the growing collection and came over. They were amazed by the artworks that they saw, and by word of mouth,

Cipriano Lachica does very so if you want to see his to visit the Basura Garden. might break something…it

minimal commission works wood sculptures, you have No need to worry that you was broken anyway.

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BORACAY SUN

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EXPAT FILES

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JUNE 2017

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MUSIC AND ITS FUTURE KLAUS DORING

I

love music. I can’t survive without music.

The prostitution is incomprehensible as well as unpardonable. The music industry’s future seems to become very questionable.

Record companies worldwide still keep on talking about that topic. The radical change and makeup of the whole music industry seems to be clumsy but unwavering and obvious. We’re all subjected to prevailing tastes, but especially the pop music field’s spending power dwindles and fades slowly but surely.

Listen to radio stations, watch even the “American Idol” or other idols....

The record companies are still spreading optimism since many years, even if the turnover has declined to 33 billion US$ sometime already in 2005. How much now in 2017? Unbelievable, but in the U.S. and England, compact disc sales are still increasing. CDs almost vanish in the Philippines. Sure, use You Tube and burn your CDs yourself!

Fact is: the international music industry nowadays tries to survive by getting strange partners, like “T-online” in Germany or “Apple” worldwide, that ensure new distribution policies. Worldwide, new generations grow up focusing on music like a marginal zone. I found in

my old clipping files a quotation of former European VODAFONE marketing director Guy Laurence: “Consumers still want to buy music by listening where ever he or she is right now!”

tons at home), the compact discs will become passe, we must not wonder, if a coming up generation won’t know any band or artist from the 1950s or 1960s or a certain Ludwig van Beethoven or Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

It doesn’t matter what kind of music the consumer appreciates, but it seems to be a great task for radio station carriers simply to satisfy and let its listeners enjoy. I have been a radio host in the Philippines for several years. I experienced it very well. Listen to several radio stations right now: it’s always and almost the same.

Am I old-fashioned? Maybe yes! Why not...?

Do you like Beethoven, Beach Boys, Bach, Buencamino, Frank Sinatra or the Apo Hiking Society? I do! Do you have a chance to listen to them?

Great variety is requested. Or, sad to say, music has no future, when it comes to radio broadcasting. An old Beatles song seems to be the first night performance of a Goethe drama. Yes, there are still people, even youngsters enjoy listening to music from the 1970s as well as from the Classical Masters back to the 17th century.

Let’s be honest to ourselves and face it: Many times nowadays music remains as a cheap extra bonus or a free gift and encore, an uncomfortable and insignificant marginal note in television or as an incredible cellphone ring tone.

Music, pop or classical music loses its individual character. If, after the long play records (I still have

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

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BORACAY SUN

PEOPLE

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+ ALTITUDE

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JUNE 2017

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A tribute to a fallen man in uniform

JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS

P

aul was a stubborn child.

His face was always red with incessant use of Master Eskinol. His hair was always kept spruced ala Wowee de Guzman; he dressed himself like a millennial – casual but very presentable. He was about 5”7’ tall, slender-built. He also has a feet fetish as he always kept his ultra clean.

He drank the regulars: Red Horse, Emperador, gin, whatever the sari-sari store has in its wooden shelves.

His way was simple: to make friends with everybody and live a satisfied life.

Paul, or Ian to his relatives, lived right beside our house and has become my best friend. We call each other “Budz”- our code, our term of endearment, perhaps.

He never said it but his actions tell that he wanted to join the military and become a Philippine Air Force (PAF) pilot. When he hit the right age, he enrolled himself at Philippine Air Force Regular Officers Procurement Program (PAFROPP) and attended the PAF Flying School.

pristine feet remained the same. He shows high moral when telling me tales of his rigorous training. “It’s all in the mind, Budz,” he replied when I asked how his small frame survived one and a half years of tall orders from his superiors.

He was assigned to far-flung places. Our bonding moments are now reduced to telephone calls and Facebook messages.

Then, he was promoted to Pilot-in-Command.

He is now Captain Christian Paul T. Litan.

On May 4, 2017, he captained a 50 year old UH1d -- a helicopter infamous for being bought at an anomalous price tag by the past administration. Among the four inside the helicopter, three died. Budz wasn’t spared.

It was around 3:00 PM, the news reported.

Reports also said that Capt. Litan, pilot-in-command, played hero as he maneuvered the helicopter away from a residential area as it spiraled down to ashes in an open lot.

The stubborn child is now broadcasted as a hero.

When he came out of military schooling, his posture was more imposing. His face matured and was not as red as I remember. He has developed a muscled physique. He didn’t look like Woowee de Guzman anymore. He was, aesthetically, a different person.

His death could be attributed to anything - be it the failings of a decaying chopper, be it Paul’s (although almost impossible as he was one of the finest) miscalculation, be it the weather that they tried to soldier on that day. The confirmation of the cause of fatalities is yet to be heard.

“Budz!” He almost ran to me, greeted me as he initiates our celebratory fist bump, another secret “code” of ours. His spirit, our friendship and his

He and his colleagues died in line of duty. I’d like to think that he sacrificed himself for a country he loved so much.

However, it is now a sacrifice endured by many people, endured by Kristel, his wife of only seven months; by his family, his friends, colleagues, by a future he couldn’t even witness. Suffice it to say, it’s a sad day for all who knew Paul.

However, let us not be miserable for we are granted a chance to have known and loved such a gallant man. *This is written through the eyes of Alva, Paul’s“Budz.”

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BORACAY SUN

PEOPLE

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JUNE 2017

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A Father’s Love NIñO ROGIEN TEODOSIO & KATHLEEN DAROY

“

F

ather, a son’s first hero and a daughter’s first love.”

Having a father is a blessing from Almighty God because having one means half of your world. You have a man who will protect and provide you the things that you need, believe in you when everyone is doubting that you can.

with disability. He is a mechanic.

When he was 12 years old he went and decided to live in Kalibo. He used to stay with relatives in Laserna where he met his common law wife Cherilyn Gregorio. They lived together for almost a year but unfortunately they got separated.

Having a father makes you feel complete because you had someone who you can run to when everyone turned their back to you. Being a father is not an easy task. You will be the strongest if all of them are down. A father’s love is irreplaceable. He is someone who will wipe your tears when you’re crying, someone who will cheer you on during difficult times.

“I never blamed anyone, I believed that anything that happened in my life has a reason, and I never questioned God,” he said. His simple dream is to be a loving and caring father, but it seems fate is toying with him. “I will never loss hope of becoming a father, I would really love to have children and call me papa or tatay; I wanted to be a role model for my child, because a child is precious gift from above.”

A father is someone who gives you the best things in life, time, caring words and unconditional love.

“Although my dream was not fulfilled and seems impossible now but I continue to act like a real one” he added.

Here is a man who wants to be a father. This is his story.

Is being a father is measured by having a child?

For Andres Zabal, having a child is not the basis of being one. For him, being a father is something that comes from the heart. Andres Zabal is 60 years old, a native of Libacao, Aklan. He is born

There are many men out there who is eager and willing to be a father like Andres Zabal.

This man showed his braveness in life, his eagerness to create his family and become a father. So for those who are afraid to be a father, make Mang Andres as your inspiration. Do what he does, believe on what he believes in and you will be a great father anyone

is wishing for.

Mr. Zabal yearns to be a father. He wants to be a man who will protect and provide for what his child needs. Being a disabled person never dissuade him to think that he could be a father someday.

He is never afraid of to show the world that he is ready to be called “Tatay”.

Longing for a father’s love While someone aspires to become a father, there is a child who wishes her father to be by her side, but is now impossible.

Klarence T. Daroy is a daddy’s girl.

Now 21, she lost her father three years ago. The acceptance part is not easy.

It is a big challenge to live each day without the man she loves the most.

Waking up each day knowing that no one will be there to protect and provide for their family is harder to accept. No

one will be there for her if she needs fatherly support. No one will provide for her needs and no one will stand as the strongest man for her.

She lost not just a father, but an inspiration as well. Each time, she wishes her father, the man whom she dedicates all her success, would see all her achievements in life.

Yet, losing her father is not the end of the road for Klarence. The situation turned her into a brave woman. She continued studying and made her dreams possible. Her father becomes her strength and inspiration to do more and pursue her ambitions in life.

Klarence may have not moved on yet, but she believes that time will come when the pain will heal, confident in the idea that her father watches her from above.

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HEALTH

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JUNE 2017

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Floating Away from Swimmer’s Ear MARIAN CASTRO- ORDILLO

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hether it would be in a river, beach or a pool, getting splashedovernever fails to beat the scorching summer heat. Cliff diving, banana boating, kayaking, name it! Everything spells F-U-N in summer.

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Unless, of course, if you get Swimmer’s Ear. Otitis Externa or Swimmer’s Ear is a type of infection that occurs within the ear canal because of frequent exposure to water, making it susceptible to bacteria and inflammation. As the name suggests, swimmers or people who love swimming are most vulnerable to this condition. However, other causes may also count.

Common symptoms of Swimmer’s Ear include the following: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

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Ear pain Redness and Swelling of the outer ear Temporary hearing loss Muffled Ears Itching inside the ear canal Yellow discharge of pus Slight Fever

What conditions causes Otitis Externa?

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Loss of Earwax - Earwax is a natural protectant of our body that traps dirt and prevents it from lingering within the middle ear to cause infection.

Cleaning your ears frequently may be considered hygienic, but if done too much, is not healthy.

Not only does it scrape away the ear’s natural lubricant, it could also damage the skin within the ear canal, which could complicate your ear condition if not properly attended to.

Swimming in Polluted Water - Since water can possibly be trapped within the ear canal, swimming

in waters, which contain high levels of bacteria, is another culprit why we get an ear infection. Sandy shores and muddy ponds, lakes or rivers may be inevitable to swim on, just make sure to rinse and clean your ears right away after swimming.

Inflammation and wounds caused by foreign objects - Too much itching is sometimes unbearable when you have an ear infection. Some people have a tendency to put any object to ease the discomfort like your finger, a pen or a hairclip to scratch the inside of the ear. Unfortunately, this might cause further injury to your ear.

Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis etc. Fungal infection is not exclusive with our exposed skin. They can also occur within the ear canal.

When skin flakes get loose and fungus inflict within the ear canal, it will likely cause an infection.

Diabetes and other diseases that weakens the immune system - When Otitis Externa becomes malignant and you have a weak immune system caused by another health condition such as diabetes, HIV, or AIDS, the body’s bacteria fighting abilitygetscompromised. If not given proper medical attention, the infection can damage the tissue of your ear canal. Furthermore, it becomes life threatening if not treated promptly and efficiently due to its proximity to the brain, where it could also spread through.

Treatment, Prevention& Care •

Physician’s Care - Always make sure to check with your doctor before taking any medication. It is a must, specially, if the concerned body part is as delicate as our ear. Depending on severity, your physician may prescribe antibiotic treatments, antifungal medication, steroidal or non-streroidal drops to ease inflammation, and/or acidic solutions to restore your ear to its normal condition.For worse case scenarios, surgery may be required.

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Home Remedies - For less serious cases, home remedies can ease the discomfort but it is best to do this if your doctor is okay with it. For instance, you can apply a few drops of mineral oil before going swimming to help block bacterial infections once you submerge in the water.

A homemade acetic acid solution can also be helpful to dry your ear after swimming. Just mix equal parts of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol.

Using a sterile bulb syringe, flush the inside of your ear canal with the solution while your head is tilted. After 10-15 seconds, slowly drain your ear by tilting it back. Do this on both of your ears.

Heat therapy is also a good way to keep off Swimmer’s Ear. You can place a warm compress at the back of your ears to help ease the throbbing sensation or pain. Nevertheless, if you have a hair blower available, switch it to low heat setting and keep it a foot away from your earlobe once turned on. Blow it on both ears for about half a minute each.

Do not let your love of water be devastated by the discomfort of having Swimmer’s Ear. Just be cautious and take good care of your auditory health, be merry and enjoy the rest of the season.

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