BORACAY SUN | June 2015 Issue

JUNE 2015 | VOL. V NO. 6 | BORACAY’S MONTHLY NEWS ON RECYCLED PAPER

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COMPLETE LIST What’s in this issue...

03 IN THE NEWS 07 7107 ISLANDS 09 EXPAT FILES 10 ENVIRONMENT 12 CULTURE 14 COVER STORY 16 LIFESTYLE 19 PEOPLE 21 INDULGE

BORACAY HOSTS APEC 2015

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Karen Bermejo

fter the much-hyped Laboracay on May 1, Boracay Island played host to more than 1,500 high-profile delegates from 21 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member economies.

The island’s white sand beaches and vibrant tourism areas served as backdrop for the second round of the APEC Senior Officials Meeting (SOM2) and other

related meetings from May 10-21 and the Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting from May 23-24.

Since the start of May, maximum security measures and much transformation have been implemented to ensure the safety and comfort of the international delegates.

police here.

Apart from the PNP, augmentation team from the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Navy, Land Transportation Office, Bureau of Fire Protection and Armed Forces of the Philippines were also deployed in the island.

More than 3,500 members of the Philippines National Police have been deployed to augment the 101 tourist

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LIFESTYLE

IN THE NEWS

7107 ISLANDS

COVER STORY APEC 2015

Boracay Wedding

Boracay Dads

>>> PAGE 04

>>> PAGE 08

>>> PAGE 14

>>> PAGE 18

>>> PAGE 19

Flores de Mayo

Guimaras

PEOPLE

Chasing the Sun

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We are now counting the days before the summer season ends. Soon, the winds will be shifting, bringing in the southwest monsoon or habagat. But before we say goodbye to the warm days and say hello to the rainy season, Boracay Sun is giving you the best summer happenings inside and outside the island of Boracay.

Our island paradise is still pulsating with the activities of the past month. While we still reel from the better after-effects of Laboracay, our excitement amplified as we welcome yet another batch of visitors – some 1,500 high profile delegates to the 2015 APEC Meetings held in the island. These meetings of the representatives of the member economies fill our main story this month. And then there’s the Grand Flores de Mayo that brought our island to a fashionably colorful bloom.

We may highlight the activities of May in this issue but rest assured that we have not put aside the many occasions in store this June. This month, we celebrate fatherhood by giving honor to the dads of Boracay, who exemplify pillars of strength.

This is also the most popular month to marry. A peek of how fun a beach wedding can be and its essentials is on page 18.

Most importantly, June is about the Philippine Independence Day. More than a century ago, our beloved country was under Spanish rule and through the priceless and valiant efforts of our heroes, we were able to achieve our freedom.

Whatever the season and weather may be, Boracay Sun is one with you in celebrating the greatness of life by bringing you fresh features and good news. May the rest of your summer be more exciting than ever!

COVER

THE BORACAY SUN FAMILY

By APEC Host Media

WWW.BORACAYSUN.COM Managing Editor MICHAEL JEROME MADRIAGA Editorial Advisers BLANCHE BASCO & BETH JALEA Guest Editor SAMANTHA GO Art Director ALVA ALVAREZ Photographer JULIUS OLARTE Ma. Teresa Fajilan

“Some people come in your life as BLESSINGS. Some come in your life as LESSONS.” ~ MOTHER TERESA “The only thing that stands in the way of an amazing life are the excuses we tell ourselves as to why we can’t achieve it”

Columnists JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS, JEFFREY MANCAO, PO3 CHRISTOPHER MENDOZA, PIA MIRAFLORES, SHIVA NAND, MARLO SHOENENBERGER, RICA VELASCO, CALVIN YOUNG Contributors JUN AGUIRRE, KAREN BERMEJO, VERNA FAJILAN-BRAZIL, LOWELL CAUILAN, RICARDO CEPEDA GO, KATE HAMMAREN, BRYAN MADERA

~ STEVEN AITCHISON

In our previous issue, some of the winners during the 9th International Boracay Dragon Boat Festival (by Kate Hammaren) were not included in the article. For a complete list of winners, you may visit the official Facebook page of Boracay Dragon Boat Festival.

LOVE and COMPASSION are necessities, not luxuries.

Without them, humanity cannot survive.

Publisher THE BORACAY WALLSTREET INC.

~ DALAI LAMA

President & CEO MA. TERESA FAJILAN Sales and Marketing Manager MICHELLE ELIZON Operations Manager JOANN BARRIOS

“Strong people don’t put others down…

They lift them up.” ~ MICHAEL P. WATSON

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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 2015

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Showcasing Boracay to the world:

BFI joins the China and Arabian BFI travel markets corner

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Pia Miraflores

he Boracay Foundation, Incorporated (BFI) participated in its 2nd and 3rd International Travel Expo back-to-back this year at the China Outbound Travel and Tourism Market (COTTM) held at the National Agricultural Exhibition Center, Beijing from April 14-16, 2015 and the Arabian Travel Market at the World Trade Center, Dubai UAE from May 4-7, 2015.

The BFI has been very active in showcasing Boracay to world in line with its commitment to promote and ensure the quality market development of the island as a tourist destination.

The COTTM, headed by the Department of Tourism (DOT) through the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) is the leading China Outbound Travel Market, with a focus on visitor quality. With the China Travel ban, the DOT said the number of Chinese tourists in the Philippines declined by 7.37% in 2014.

BFI decided to participate in the COTTM as no other exhibition in China is as 100% business to business and 100% outbound tourism as focused as the COTTM. The DOT also organized an “It’s More Fun in The Philippines” Networking Dinner on April 13, 2015 at the Kerry Hotel Shangri-La Beijing, where they invited the top tourism outbound operators and serious buyers based in China to meet with the Philippine delegation.

This networking activity allowed each exhibitor to present more about their destination and allowed the conduct of Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings between Philippine exhibitors and travel partners in China.

Guests were also treated to world-class cultural performances and music while enjoying dinner. It was also announced at the dinner that starting June, there will be chartered direct flights from Beijing to Kalibo three times a week. This great news was received by Philippine Ambassador to China, Her Excellency Erlinda Basilio, who delivered an inspiring message to everyone present.

While the National government is working on ensuring a better environment for Chinese tourists, the BFI believes that we must continuously be proactive in promoting the island, especially since China is the fourth largest source of foreign tourists in the Philippines, after South Korea, the United States, and Japan. Brand presence should be a continuous and active effort.

The BFI delegation to the Arabian Travel Market: (L-R) ED Pia Miraflores, Jony’s Resort - Ging Sumndad and Jo Salme, and BFI Marketing Committee Chair En Calvert Arabian Travel Market The Philippine delegation to the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) was led by DOT Undersecretary for Tourism Development USec. Benito Bengzon. The DOT first participated in the ATM in 2009. Since then, the delegation has continuously grown, attracting high profile Philippine tourism industry players to join as exhibitors.

The main objective for the majority of exhibitors and visitors at ATM is to do business with people they wouldn’t normally meet. The variety of stands on offer is fantastic, with the exhibition fittingly organized by geographical area and industry.

A breakfast networking activity was also sponsored by the DOT at the Ibis Hotel Dubai, where more than 25 Arabian Outbound Tour Operators were invited to meet with Philippine Pavilion exhibitors. Gulf Arab tourists, specifically from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are among the world’s highest spending travelers abroad with daily average expenditure ranging between USD 3,280 to USD 4,100 according to a study entitled The Outbound GCC Travel Market – Unique Trends and Characteristics. Compared to other tourists, Gulf nationals spend 260% more on airfare and 430% more on accommodation. Considering the high spending power of the Arabian Market, it is one of the potential target markets for Boracay.

Ceremonial Toast at the “It’s More Fun In The Philippines” Networking Dinner

It has been reported that tourist traffic to the Philippines from the Middle East continues to show firm growth. Since the roll out of the tourism campaign “It’s More Fun in the Philippines”, DOT has been actively working with the private sector, other government entities, and relevant shareholders to foster improvements in the travel and tourism industry.

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IN THE NEWS

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JUNE 2015

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Reliving tradition: BFI holds 3rd Grand Boracay Flores de Mayo Festival Pia Miraflores

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o commemorate the beauty and the pageantry of the religious festival in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Boracay Foundation, Incorporated (BFI) organized the “Grand Boracay Flores de Mayo Festival” that showcased a grand Santacruzan at the White Beach of Boracay on May 23.

Santacruzan is the pageant on the last day of Flores de Mayo, held in honour of Helena of Constantinople (known as Reyna Elena) and Constantine the Great finding the True Cross in Jerusalem.

Now on its third year, the event started with a Holy Mass at the Holy Rosary Parish Church. At sundown, participants gathered at the Barangay Balabag Plaza for a procession towards the White Beach.

This year, eight queens from various resorts and organization joined the Santacruzan, namely: 1. Reyna Nicole Angela Crescini, escorted by Donrey Ilazar (Boracay Foundation Incorporated) 2. Reyna Sofia Pasag, escorted by Jake Gonzaga (LGU – Malay) 3. Reyna Jenelyn Salvador, escorted

by Mohammad Ali Binbandar Jr. (Astoria Boracay)

4. Reyna Genevieve Valle, escorted by RM Padrigo (White House Beach Resort) 5. Reyna Kanaway Lacerna, escorted

by Gyermie Ross Carpeso (Jony’s Beach Resort) Mary Arriane Peñola, 6. Reyna escorted by Calvin Lim (Henann Group of Resorts) 7. Reyna Rochelle Honorario, escorted

by Frederick Vince David (Microtel Resort Boracay) 8. Reyna Elena Kristelle Adayon, escorted by Seth Alexander Orque (Alta Vista de Boracay) Young ladies from the Holy Rosary Parish Church’s Youth Ministry joined the procession dressed as Princesses of Virtues (symbolizing the virtues of the Blessed Virgin Mary), wearing colorful dresses and little tiaras, all holding beautifully adorned flower arcs.

The indigenous group, Boracay Ati Tribal Organization, was also well represented with beautiful Ati children wearing white dresses and flower crowns. They carry with them placards containing letters forming the phrase “Ave Maria” or Hail Mary.

The procession was led by the Floreses Band from Nabas, Aklan. Volunteers

(L-R) Henann Resorts’ Events Manager Michelle Molano, SB Member Jupiter Gallenero, 2015 Grand Boracay FLores de Mayo Festival Queen Ms. Sofia Pasag (LGU Malay), 2014 Grand Boracay Festival Queen Ms. Kristelle Adayon (Alta Vista de Boracay), and Mr. Felix delos Santos

from Boracay Police and the Islanders Boracay Bike Club helped in pulling the Karo carrying the image of theVirgin Mary along the White Beach.

In a program held at the White Beach, Board of the Directors Member, Ms. Nenette A. Graf, shared how the BFI envisions the Grand Boracay Flores De Mayo Festival to be a go-to event in Boracay at this time of the year.

DJ Mark from Yes FM and Ms. MJ Sumndad, 2013 Grand Boracay Flores de Mayo Festival Queen, hosted the program. An intermission number from the Boracay National High School (BNHS) featuring traditional Filipino dances such as Pandanggo sa Ilaw and Tinikling wowed the crowd.

The pageant participants were judged according to Best Floral Arc (Hennan Group of Resorts), Best Dressed Reyna

(LGU Malay), and Best Escort (Hennan Group of Resorts). The Festival Queen titles were awarded to Reyna Kanaway Lacerna of Jony’s Beach Resort (2nd Runner Up Festival Queen), Reyna Mary Arriane Peñola of Hennan Group of Resorts (1st Runner Up Festival Queen), and Reyna Sofia Pasag of LGU Malay as the Grand Boracay Flores de Mayo Festival Queen 2015.

Pageant judges were Mr. Frederick Oleo of the Department of Tourism, Mr. Arie Sena of the Alta Vista de Boracay and Ms. Bernadette Montelibano of the Department of Trade and Industry, the event’s major sponsor.

This year’s Grand Boracay Flores de Mayo Festival Queen will again represent LGU Malay next year and will be taking the place of Reyna Elena for 2016.

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IN THE NEWS

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JUNE 2015

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Consul Generals experience why it’s more fun in Boracay pia miraflores

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n April 17- 19, 2015, the Hong Kong Consular Corps headed by Consul General Bernardita Catalla of the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong, visited Boracay for a three-day familiarization tour.

The familiarization tour of the high-level visitors were jointly overseen by the Boracay Foundation, Incorporated (BFI), the Local Government Unit of Malay, and the Department of Tourism Region 6, with the help of the Coast Guard Boracay Substation, Boracay PNP who provided close-in security for the group, the BFRAV Team, Malay Auxiliary Police, BFI Bantay Dagat, and Kalibo CAAP. The delegation was composed of six other consul generals and their spouses including the following: Thailand Consul General and spouse - Mr. Aroon Jivasakapimas and Mrs. Arunee Jivasakapimas, Pakistan Consul General and spouse - Mr. Ghufran Memon and Mrs. Faryal Jumani, Kuwait Consul General and spouse - Mr. Khaled B. Al-Mutairi and Mrs. Fatima M. Jouhar, Angola Consul General Mr. Cupertino Gourgel, Slovenia Honorary Consul and spouse Mr. Bernard C.W. Lau and Mrs. Lau Fung Sui Tuen, Elsa, Mozambique Honorary Consul and spouse Mr. Ho Chun Tung and Mrs. Alice Ho. Upon arrival, they were treated to a sumptuous lunch at Willy’s Beach Club Hotel

by Ms. Socorro Ruchanie G. Gadon, Member of the BFI Board of Trustees. This allowed them to meet with the Municipality of Malay Vice Mayor Hon. Wilbec M. Gelito and Ms. Mabel D. Bacani, Executive Assistant to the Mayor, BFI President Dionisio J. Salme, and other members and officers of the Board of Trustees of the BFI. They also enjoyed a relaxing paraw sunset cruise on their first day that concluded with a cultural dinner night hosted by BFI Member of the Board of Trustees, Commodore Leonard A. Tirol, at the White House Resort Boracay. The group was entertained by cultural performances such as the tinikling, pandanggo, and other traditional dances. Some members of the Hong Kong Consular Corps enjoyed the performance so much that they joined the dancers as they swayed to traditional music, barefoot, on Boracay’s famous powdery white sand.

An action-packed second day began with a coral transplantation activity at the Coral Garden. This allowed the group a chance to share their time and efforts in preserving Boracay’s coral reefs. They truly enjoyed the activity and asked a lot of questions on how corals help preserve the beauty of the island. They described the activity as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience and were very glad that they had the opportunity to do their share for Boracay.

After the coral transplantation activity, the delegates proceeded to Puka Beach where they were welcomed with floral leis and coconut coolers by Alta Vista

Pakistan Consul General Ghufran Memon and Angola Consul General Cupertino Gourgel enjoyed the coral transplantation activity de Boracay Resort, which also prepared a superb lunch for the delegation. They enjoyed swimming in Puka Beach and also shopped for beach accessories and pearl necklaces offered by the locals.

In the evening, they enjoyed an international buffet dinner hosted by BFI Chairman, Dr. Henry O. Chusuey, at Seabreeze Café, Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa. The BFI Board of Trustees showed their full support during the dinner and awarded a Certificate of Appreciation to the delegation. The Local Government Unit of Malay represented by Hon. Wilbec M. Gelito, Hon. Rowen T. Aguirre and Mr. Felix delos Santos, Jr., were also present to extend their gratitude to the delegation for choosing Boracay as the site for their familiarization tour. Atty.

Helen J. Catalbas, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism Region 6, was also present to show her appreciation for the support of the delegation to the Department of Tourism’s Visit the Philippines 2015 campaign.

A farewell lunch of fresh seafood and Filipino cuisine at PauPatri was hosted by CG Bernardita Catalla, before the delegates departed for the airport.

At the Culminating Dinner hosted by BFI Chairman Dr. Henry O. Chusuey for the Hong Kong Consular Corps

The said activity is the Consulate General’s initiative in support of the DOT’s Visit the Philippines 2015 Campaign, to promote the Philippines as an attractive tourist destination. With the genuine warmth, hospitality and fun, the community, through the cooperation of several agencies, have already signified their support to bring in more tourists from their respective countries to visit the island paradise of Boracay and experience why it is indeed more fun in the Philippines.

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BORACAY SUN

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IN THE NEWS

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JUNE 2015

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Boracay PNP Joins Coral REEFurbishment Project P03 Christopher Del Rosario Mendoza, PCR PNCO

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NP Boracay joined the Coral REEFurbishment Project (CRP) or the Coral Transplantation activity last April 25-26, 2015, together with the other volunteers from different organizations.

Makakaliksan is one of the PNP Core Values, which was displayed by officers, PSI FRENSY ANDRADE, PINSP ALFONSO MANOBA Jr, P03 Christopher Mendoza, P01 Iriel Fernandez and P01 Loue Ballescas of Boracay PNP, when they took part in the said project.

CRP is a joint project of the Boracay Foundation Incorporated (BFI) and the Local Government Unit of Malay, under the Boracay Beach Management Program (BBMP). The BFI welcomed its new partner, Pioneer Group Foundation, Incorporated, the CSR arm of the company that manufactures marine epoxy clay aqua that is used for coral planting.

The two-day activity dubbed as “Our Earth, Our Responsibility” started with a Coastal Clean-up and immediately followed by a Coral Transplantation at the Coral Garden, one of the diving/snorkelling/fish feeding sites in the Island.

The Coral REEFurbishment Project (CRP) involves planting of coral fragments from damaged corals, due to both human activities and natural calamities like typhoons. The powdery white sand beaches of Boracay Island are mainly composed of Coral Calcium or Calcium Carbonate. CRP aims to increase the number of live corals in the island and to recover the 15% remaining healthy coral reefs surrounding the island.

The project started in 2007, and in 2013, based on an assessment of the University of the Philippines, the number of live corals in the Western side of the island has already increased from 15% to 33%.

Rotary Club of Boracay at a Glance Marlo Schoenenberger

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otary connects 1.2 million members from more than 200 countries and geographical areas. These members form a global network of volunteer leaders who dedicate their time and talent to tackle the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. Their work impacts lives at both the local and international levels, such as helping local families in need or working towards a polio free world. Rotary Club offers expanded service opportunities including: Interact, a service organization for young adults aged 12-18 years old; Rotaract Groups organized to promote leadership and professional development among young adults aged 18-30 years old; and the Rotary Community Corps (RCCs), groups of non-Rotary members who work to improve their communities. There are more than 12,300 Interact Clubs in 133 countries, 8,000 Rotaract Clubs in 167 countries and 7,500 RCCs in 80 countries.

MEMBERSHIP SNAPSHOT

Who: Rotary brings together the kind of people who step forward to take on important issues. Members hail from a range of professional backgrounds; doctors, artists, small business owners, and stay-at-home parents can all call themselves Rotarians. Rotary connects their unique perspectives, and helps leverage its members’ expertise to improve lives everywhere.

Where: From Haiti and Greenland to Nigeria and Singapore, Rotary unites a truly multi-faceted set of leaders from across the world. Currently, the largest number of clubs comes from the United States, India, Japan and Brazil. The fastest growing Rotary regions include Southeast Asia and Africa.

What: Rotarians contribute their time, energy and

passion towards sustainable, long-term projects in local communities across the globe. Projects focus on important issues like peace and conflict resolution, disease prevention and treatment, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, and economic and community development. In fact, Polio Eradication Rotary is close to eliminating the second widest spreading human disease in history after smallpox, with a 99 percent reduction in polio cases worldwide since 1985, when Rotary launched its Polio Plus program. In 1988, Rotary spearheaded the creation of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative with its partners; the World Health Organization, UNICEF and, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Polio eradication remains Rotary’s top priority. To date, Rotary has contributed more than US$1.2 billion and countless volunteer hours to help immunize more than two billion children in 122 countries. Currently, Rotary is working to raise $35 million per year through 2018 for polio eradication, which will be matched 2 to 1 by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

RC BORACAY: DISTRICT 3850 Rotary International District 3850 is composed of around 1,200 Rotarians of 51 Rotary Clubs coming from Iloilo City, Bacolod City, Zamboanga City, and the 12 provinces of Aklan, Antique, Basilan, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, Misamis Occidental, Negros Occidental, TawiTawi, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay.

The birth of RC Boracay on July 2, 1997 brought with it a promise of great things to come for the island. After all, the club members are professional men and women who work as volunteers to improve

Mobile Library the quality of life in their home and world community.

The group is one of more than 29,000 Rotary clubs in more than 160 countries. Rotary is an organization of some 1.2 million business and professional men and women that provides humanitarian service and helps further international goodwill and peace. The Rotary motto is “Service Above Self.” RC Boracay covers the whole of Boracay Island, known worldwide as having one of the best beaches in the world, and the nearby municipalities of Nabas, Malay and Buruanga.

RC Boracay, in addition to community service and fellowship, focused its attention on environmental protection. On its 13th year, aside from the mentioned areas, the club’s main thrust is on literacy and health.

Some of our past projects include, building of daycare centers, a kindergarten building, and homes for the homeless; distribution of vitamin A supplements to Grade 1 students; book donations; medical missions’ daycare equipment and wheelchair distribution; information dissemination regarding environment protection and animal welfare; free seminars regarding various topics.

The Four-Way Test

“Of the things we think, say or do: Is it the TRUTH? Is it FAIR to all concerned?

Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?”

Boracay Island Rotarians

JOIN THE ROTARY CLUB OF BORACAY! We meet every 7:00PM on Tuesdays, at the Seawind Boracay.

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BORACAY SUN

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7107 ISLANDS

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JUNE 2015

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+ ALTITUDE

Tour De Filipinas:

Biking the Philippine Islands Joel James cubillas

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500 kilometers.

Ordinary people may think that covering a distance that great with the lowly bicycle as the only means of transportation, through incredible terrain and amid the searing tropical climate, is impossible. Lea Latayan and Andeng Castillo, both pure Batangueno, are not ordinary people. They are now at the finishing leg of their epic ride dubbed, “Tour de Filipinas 2015”, and even more outstanding is the fact that Miss Lea might be the first female to accomplish the said feat.

The planning of this journey came about two years ago and the actual ride started only last March. It is estimated to be finished within an 85-day timeframe with an average distance of 130 kilometres per day; if all factors continue to be smooth, their calculations will become a reality. Supposedly, they were five cyclists to partake on this journey, but only Lea and Andeng pursued the adventure for the others were hindered by conflicts in schedule and familial priorities. The two were not affected by these since Lea manages a business of her own and Andeng is as punk rock as anyone could be. But unlike most lengthy bike rides, this escapade does not aim to prove anything and does not have the slightest goal of attaining bragging rights. “We’re not even sponsored”, Miss Lea elaborates as she points out that this escapade is just a product of personal aspirations.

As of press time, the middle aged duo are on their 80th day and their suntanned skin only emphasizes the time spent on provincial and metropolitan roads. “Wala namang makapipigil sa amin kahit gaano pa katarik yan o kung gaano pa yan ka downhill. Meron lang kaming iniwasang lugar noon sa Mindanao, sa Mamasapano”, said Andeng when asked about the most challenging part of their escapade -- the fear that they might be held captive by a leftist group. It is also delightful to note that these riders use mid-level bicycles -- there’s no need to invest on ultralightweight, top of the line bike parts to perform such an astounding exploit. And one may come to the conclusion that bicycle part improvement is only second to mental and physical conditioning.

But not all places are bikeable, they said. There’s one place in Mindanao (they can’t remember exactly where) where kind folks had to push them (atop their bikes) up a hill, and there were areas where no bikes have ever been to before

as enamoured locals followed them ala Forrest Gump. “Ang dami ko nang alam na lenggwahe, feeling ko nag-iiba na din ang punto ko”, Leah shared, certainly amused of the unexpected learning and thrills that come their way.

Now that they are nearing the completion of this incredible feat, I asked them, “Anong sunod niyong gagawin?” “Di namin alam, pero siguro hahanap kami ng mas mahirap,” they replied.

7500 kilometers. 7500 long, overwhelming kilometers. Ordinary people would complain on how hellish the weather is, ordinary people would question the crises life may bring, and ordinary people may just give in to seemingly insurmountable difficulties. Lea and Andeng are not ordinary people. They ride their bikes and may have found something that they were not even looking for -- an eternal fount of strength, appreciation, and light-heartedness.

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The Island with a Golden Heart Michael Madriaga

Holy Family Hills

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uimaras, known to many as the province where the sweetest mangoes are harvested, is located between the islands of Panay and Negros in Western Visayas. This paradise island gained popularity in recent years, as the commute to the province has become more accessible and affordable. According to the local I interviewed, before the province opened up for tourism, there were only a limited number of trips coming to and from the “mainland” Iloilo..

Thankfully nowadays, traveling to Guimaras is quite easy and convenient; if you’re coming from Caticlan or Kalibo, just ride a van or bus going to Iloilo City.

If you’re coming from Manila begin by flying to Iloilo city, then ride a taxi going to Ortiz Port and you’re just a 15 minute boat ride away from the enchanting island. Boat rides costs only PHP 14.00, too.

Upon arriving at the point of entry, Jordan Wharf, I went straight to their Tourist Assistance Office.

The friendly staff provided me information about the things I could do in the province. I was given an option between a half-day or whole-day trip. There is also an option for those who would want to spend the night on the island but unfortunately, most of the affordable resorts were already full during my visit, so I just chose the whole-day package, which costs PHP 1,200.00 including the tricycle transportation. The price might seem a bit costly, but it’s actually cheap for a group of 3 to 4. You may even want to create your own itinerary but I strongly suggest the packaged ones as most of the tourist spots are too far from each other and the means of transportation are quite limited, so it’s better not to risk creating a hectic trip.

Bala-an Bukid Shrine The first stop for the whole-day trip is at the Bala-an Bukid Shrine. This spot is located on top of a hill and needs a lot of walking. Along the unpaved roads, there are small markers depicting the Stations of the Cross. According to the driver, pilgrims usually walk from the foot of the hill up to the Ave Maria Shrine at the top while praying the rosary or the Stations of the Cross. Since I only had a limited time on the island, I asked the driver to go straight to the Ave Maria Shrine.

Though we travelled almost 95% of the trip on a tricycle, going to shrine still needed a lot of energy, as one still has to walk uphill on steep and dusty road dotted with the occasional sharp rock. But what

see the old lighthouse structure but it is strongly discouraged to go inside (or even touch) the rusty decomposing metal structure. Around the lighthouse are other ruins that have been overpowered by nature.

Nevertheless, Guisi gave me a glimpse into Guimaras’ history, plus the view of the sea next to the lighthouse is just priceless.

Mango Overload

Trappist Monastery Church waits atop is rewarding; a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary with a viewing deck overlooking the skyscrapers of Iloilo City. This place is perfect for meditation and prayers. Only the chirping birds can be heard, and the gentle breeze coming from the sea can be felt. Just by looking at how busy the neighboring city is, you will feel blessed by being able to sit under the trees away from the pollution and noise.

Holy Family Hills Another famous spot for tourist and pilgrims is the Holy Family Hills. The compound is privately owned but visitors are free to visit. One notable feature of the Holy Family Hills is the gigantic statue of the Sagrada Familia (Holy Family) in the middle of the garden. The compound is also home to life-size statues of different saints with some even featuring their own garden and grotto set up around the individual statues.

Life-size sculptures of the 14 Stations of the Cross are also scattered and a chapel is situated in the middle for those who want to pray. Peaceful and divine is how I would describe Holy Family Hills, it’s as if all the saints are watching over you and anything you wish for can come true.

Trappist Monastery Trappist Monastery is one of the most visited spots in Guimaras especially for pasalubongs as products bought directly from their souvenir shop costs much cheaper than those sold in supermarkets and other pasalubong centers. If you’re lucky enough, you may even get freshly-made jams and other mango products straight from their factory.

As mentioned earlier, Guimaras is known for having the sweetest mangoes in our country that’s why it has been called the Mango Capital of the Philippines.

These golden heart-shaped fruit have long been beloved as a snack and dessert, that’s why Guimaras created different products made from mangoes. The common ones are dried mangoes, mango jam, and mango bars, but with the locals’ creativity, they were able to invent atsarang (pickled) mango, mango ketchup, and even mango spaghetti sauce! I actually tried the mango ketchup and it tastes like our usual tamis-anghang ketchup except for the yellow color.

If you would want to try other mango-based treats, make sure to visit the Pitstop Restaurant located in the town of San Miguel. Pitstop has been featured in different television shows and magazines because of their unique Mango Pizza, a truly fantastic dish! Also available are their versions of mango spaghetti and mango bulalo, which I wasn’t able to try but I will surely order when I return.

Along the highway, you will come across different fruit stands selling other mango products like piaya, mango concentrate, and fresh mango shake. I’ve actually looked for a stand where I could buy the cheapest mangoes but they have a standard price so whichever fruit stand you chose would probably have the same price as the others. Well, I wasn’t able to buy fresh Guimaras mangoes as the minimum order must be 5 kilos for them to box it, and since I’d be travelling for long hours from Guimaras to Iloilo to Boracay, I was afraid that they might just get bruised. But if you think you could carry the mangoes in plastic bags for the whole duration of your travel, you are free to order less than the suggested amount.

Until today, I can still taste the sweetness of the Guimaras mangoes on my tongue, and still feel the breeze of fresh air from the province. Guimaras has a lot to offer and I know that I’ve only tried some of what they have. I am excitedly looking forward to visiting the Island with The Golden Heart again.

Aside from the sweet treats you could buy at Trappist, make sure that you also tour the monastery. A church is located just a few steps from the shop where the Benedictine monks conduct their mass. Rooms are also available for retreats and tourists as well. Walking around the compound feels different from the rest of the island’s tourist spots, as most of the trees resemble pine trees making you feel as if you’re in Baguio. Just across the road is Trappist’s mango plantation where hectares of mango trees brimming with beautiful fruit are planted.

Guisi Lighthouse

Ave Maris Shrine

The farthest destination that I visited was the Guisi 18th Century Light House. One thing that I noticed was that it was not well-maintained. One will still

Mangoes of Guimaras

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A Chat with Pinoy Rock Pioneer Pepe Smith Kate Hammaren

Photos By Alva Alvarez

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his year’s Labor Day weekend brought Boracay the predicted madness and mayhem.

However, it also brought the island something special in the form of legendary Pinoy Rock pioneers: Wally Gonzales and Pepe Smith of the Juan de la Cruz Band. Performing at live music venue, Charlie’s Steakhouse & Diner, for many of the island’s residents it was a much-anticipated opportunity to see these rock legends in action.

“It’s a coincidence that we came over LaBoracay,” said the ‘Mick Jagger of the Philippines’ Pepe Smith. “When we arrived, there was a commotion and we thought, ‘Wow!’, but we realised it was for LaBoracay!”

The Juan de la Cruz Band as it is known today came together in 1970 and shot to stardom as the premier rock band in the Philippines due to their original compositions in Tagalog. The trio, consisting of Joey (Pepe) Smith as singer/drummer/composer, Wally Gonzalez the founding guitarist, and Mike Hanopol, singer and guitarist, quickly became superstars and to this day are revered by fans young and old.

The rock legend first came to Boracay in 2013 with Playboy magazine for the, ‘Rock the Rabbit’ festival.

“There were beautiful Filipina Playboy Bunnies and it was my first time to the island, so I was like, ‘Wow, is this Boracay? I’m coming back!’ Second time was for a quick gig, so I said we’d be back again and here we are!”

“We’ve been doing this for 40 years, so I only feel new ideas coming if I go somewhere like Boracay or anywhere in the Visayas. If you stay in one place you get rotten, so we travel the provinces, playing good ole’ rock ‘n’ roll. I love travelling, you should enjoy the world, I write songs about it. There are so many things you can do and places to explore. If you let it go it’s your loss, opportunities will pass you by.”

So how does Pepe feel about coming to Boracay during its busiest weekend? “Boracay is different from the rest of the country -- everyone’s lazing on the beach, getting back their energy. When it’s busy, I’ll just walk to the grocery, pick up some things, go back, watch TV and go to bed! Or play my PS4. I also like to pull out some new tunes on my guitar.

“Wally’s in his room now, resting for the gig tonight.

We chill out, get some energy so we can kick ass and demolish the place! After gigs we go back to the room, watch Discovery Channel and the History Channel – I learn lots, we didn’t have them before.”

In December 1970, the band performed their firstever outdoor concert, the Antipolo Rock Festival (the Philippine equivalent to Woodstock). “We didn’t have sophisticated instruments and it was in the mountains so we didn’t have great sound, but the spirit was there, it was something new and exciting. We were proud of it, enjoyed every band and everyone was talking about it afterwards. It was a real rock ‘n’ roll family back then.

“We opened up for the Beatles when they came here and right after that for other foreign bands that followed, like Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd – we opened up for Floyd in Japan in 1972. I enjoyed it, they’re big names! I was like ‘Woah, this is the Beatles!’ I got some of Ringo’s drumsticks and George Harrison’s guitar strings. They all decayed over the years, but I had a chance to use the two pairs. I was like, ‘Oh my goodness, these are Ringo’s!”

“My favourite song of ours is one I wrote, ‘Himig Natin’, a slow, mellow rocker we recorded in 1974. It was our first album song and the one that put us on the rock ‘n’ roll map in the Philippines – it became known as the song of this generation. When it was released, I was nervous as to whether people would like it, so I stayed at home! Then the radio stations started calling, saying it was picking up good reviews and that there were a lot of requests for my song!”

Babies of Boracay celebrates 1st Year Anniversary and 1st Graduation Ceremony Kate Hammaren

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riday, May 15, was a time for happiness and recognition at the children’s daycare/community center, Babies of Boracay (B.o.B.), as they celebrate their first year anniversary alongside the graduation of their first five children.

B.oB. was bursting with color and excitement.

Mummy volunteer, Bing Bing, opened the ceremony with a prayer of thanks to founder Chelsey Hall, the educators, and all the volunteers who’d helped over the past year. Ma’am Chelsey then expressly thanked Head of Education Olive Bauman, the mummy volunteers, and everyone who had made B.o.B. the special place it is today.

Gathering together, the children sang a charming rendition of ‘Somewhere Over The Rainbow’, with Ma’am Abi singing and Ma’am Olive playing guitar:

“Somewhere over the rainbow, in the sky, there’s a place that is special, Babies of Boracay” Five children were to graduate that day. All five years old and ready to head to big school. John Mark, Nicole, Ricco, Fritz Nicole, and Maeril Joy, each received an envelope containing money to buy a new uniform. They also received a personalized certificate and school supplies donated by Boracay resident, Karen Cabrera. Every child at the center were also given special ribbon as recognition for their achievements over the first year at the center.

During the closing ceremony, Ma’am Olive said, “I believe the children of B.o.B. are the future of the Philippines.

“I was in Tokyo opening up for Pink Floyd when I came up with the first chord. It took me about six months to battle with that chord. Then, back in Manila, we were at a concert and I ended up writing the lyrics in 20 minutes in the ladies room! The ladies was out of order with planks nailed across the door, so I broke them down and went in as everywhere else was noisy. I was tripping at the time, it helps the mind create and I wrote it in 20 minutes! I was facing this big black wall and was like, ‘I’m going to get through this!’, and then we sang the song when we got onstage.”

We really rock out! Back in the day I smashed about four guitars!

“The whole world’s full of noise and we’re even noisier than that – you have to be noisy to be heard, and to free the devils and let the bad spirits go. Those demons you can’t do anything about, but I just close my eyes, get my guitar out, forget about them and they don’t bother me anymore.”

So what does the future hold for the Juan de la Cruz Band? “We’re doing the Philippine Independence Day gig at the Philippine Embassy in Singapore on June 12 and we’re concentrating on Manila,” explains Pepe.

“Hopefully in September we’ll be recording again, with lots of partying, eating and sleeping! We can’t wait to get in there and bleed our ears!”

And I knew, from personally hanging out with this friendly, down to earth rock legend that he was as enthusiastic to be performing at Charlie’s Steakhouse that night, as his adoring Boracay fans were and seeing him rocking out on their island home.

Our graduates’ preliminary tests were incredible, and I have faith they’ll go on to their new schools and do really well.”

Everyone was treated to a celebratory feast. Volunteer mummies prepared delicious spaghetti. Villa Caemilla Beach Boutique Hotel donated a fantastic buffet of pizza, mac ‘n’ cheese, rice, adobo, and a huge lechon.

B.o.B. Founder Chelsey Hall was ecstatic, saying, “Thanks to everyone who’s made today special. We’ve come so far, and all pulled together as a team and a community – today is a testimony of that. Thanks also goes to B.o.B. Ambassador, Shane Leverett, for coming from Australia to build our new

baby room so we can accommodate even more children – this was all made possible by a kind donation from the Tewkesbury Rotary club in the United Kingdom. And Olive is so instrumental in educating the children, her passion and love just pours out! Now we hope to get stronger, better and build more Babies of Boracays around the island and on other islands, too.”

Opening its doors to children aged 0-5, Babies of Boracay provides free basic education along with a free meal each day to the children living in the village of Tambisaan. For more information and to make a donation, visit www. babiesofboracay.com

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A Different Kind of Laboracay Weekend Pia Miraflores

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aboracay parties have become a trend for the past 3 years, gaining popularity especially with the Manila crowd - high school and college students, and yuppies looking to escape the city. Indeed, we can see how the numbers keep growing year after year.

As early as last year, all airlines were fully booked for the Laboracay weekend that falls on May 1 to 3.

Boracay business owners and residents had to secure flights to nearby cities like Iloilo or Roxas, as Caticlan and Kalibo flights were all fully booked. Hotels were also very happy with record-breaking occupancy rates.

A few years ago, New Year and Holy Week were the benchmarks for super peak season in Boracay but now, Laboracay holds the title.

Sure, these guys are having the time of their lives – drinking till they go all hazy and dancing till their feet get numb. With more than ten parties taking place simultaneously, they jump from party to party keeping “What happens in Boracay, stays in Boracay” in mind.

And yes, oh yes. Indeed, what happens in Boracay, stays in Boracay. The ugly side of the past year’s Laboracay weekend is the trash that people leave behind that yes, stays in Boracay. Last year saw locals desperately wondering why people had to trash their island just to have fun. Littered around were bottles, cigarette butts and disgustingly, even condoms by the beach. Weeks after the Laboracay crowd left, the community was still cleaning up after the mess. The high tide carried back to the sea the trash people left on the shore. And as the tides returned, they brought back all the same trash weeks after. The beach cleanups were never-ending. To say the least, the past years’ situations were heart-breaking.

Laboracay peeps might say, “Hey, we’re bringing in profit for Boracay businesses!” Yes, that’s true. But surely, we can party responsibly. There is always a win-win situation for both the community and the

tourists. Just because we are so engrossed in our yearning to enjoy and have fun, we can already forget to care for the country and the planet that we live in.

Boracay is not only its locals’ pride, but the country’s as well.

Boracay is the crown jewel of Philippine tourism, bringing about billions of receipts for the country.

Imagine the negative reviews we will all get, and we actually got last year from tourists who happened to be in Boracay during the Laboracay weekend. Most were complaining about the crowd (yes, we can’t do anything about that), the noise and the trash.

You might think, hey we’re bringing in millions for Boracay during this weekend. You may be right, but even without Laboracay, the island has been earning billions from foreign tourists’ receipts. Imagine losing all these because of one weekend, a weekend that made a negative impression to one or more tourists who later on decide to write about it.

Boracay’s reputation spreads like wildfire - through word of mouth, the internet, and social media. So please be considerate of other tourists who, like Laboracay partygoers, came to enjoy and discover the island’s or our country’s beauty.

who has been partnering with BFI for several years now also conducted coastal and underwater cleanup activities during the Laboracay weekend.

Boracay may be a party destination for some, but for the community, this is home and the number one source of livelihood. All of this is under threat mostly because of irresponsibility. We would rather have tourists who appreciate Boracay’s beauty responsibly than tourists who come here just to have fun for a few days with no respect to the island’s environment and community.

So much has changed for 2015, with more groups joining and partnering with the BFI in being responsible partygoers and party organizers. We are optimistic that 2016’s Laboracay weekend would even be better, with more groups spending a few hours of their Laboracay weekend helping preserve and restore the island by joining any of the CSR activities scheduled. So to all Laboracay party people in the future: Boracay is a beautiful island, and it will continue to be as long as we all do our part in preserving its beauty.

This year’s Laboracay saw a big improvement with organizers demonstrating an increased sense of awareness – additional visible trash cans, simultaneous clean-ups, and even DJs reminding guests not to leave their trash behind.

For several years, Boracay Foundation, Incorporated (BFI) has partnered with several organizations and companies conducting events in the island. This year, BFI found new partners in the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) of the Philippines who generously shared their time and effort in the conduct of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities in Boracay.

The TPB team kept their Laboracay weekend busy with coastal cleanups, coral transplantation activities, and mangrove planting. Volunteers from Rotaract of Binondo (Chinatown Manila) also participated in the coral planting activity. Solar One partnered with the BFI this year in organizing a clean-up activity after the Mayweather - Pacquiao fight. Nestle Philippines

Take nothing but pictures leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time.

CAUSE FOR A NEW COAST 01 MAY 2015, BORACAY ISLAND – On Labor Day and the morning after the muchawaited launching of Laboracay 2015, volunteers walked along the White Beach for a beach cleanup drive organized by the Boracay New Coast with the support of the different organizations in the island. The volunteers started to pick up trash near Willy’s Rock and ended at D’ Talipapa in Station 3. Boracay New Coast also distributed garbage bags and urged tourists and locals to join the volunteers in the cleanup drive.

In return, these tourists and locals received free drink stubs for the Labor Day Party in Epic or Sur.

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Ambassador in Paradise goes green with cooking oil Karen Bermejo

it with diesel fuel to produce electricity. He said the system could operate for up to ten 10 years.

Ambassador in Paradise, a five-star resort located at Station 1 of Boracay’s White Beach, is the only establishment in the country that uses the technology.

The resort’s Chairman and Chief Executive, Joop Van der Tak, said the system was installed in their resort in March 2014. Since then, during power outages in the island, they continue to operate with generating sets using waste cooking oil.

Osamu Nishikawa - Inventor of Renergy System

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s Boracay continues to attract more tourists, the number of resorts and restaurants sprouting in every corner of this resortisland increases to cater to the demand.

However, the added commercialization also becomes a threat to the prized beauty of Boracay.

The swelling population of establishments thus translates to more waste produced including cooking oil which is a primary commodity in every kitchen facility. If improperly disposed, large amounts of used cooking oil may pose a risk to the island’s primary tourism magnet: the beach.

The growing population of Boracay tourists also demands for increased power supply.

Carandang said with the Renergy System, the Ambassador in Paradise Resort can run on backup power using about 70 percent waste cooking oil, instead of pure diesel; the back-up power can run for an hour using 35 to 40 liters of used cooking oil mixed with about 5 to 10 liters of diesel.

In comparison, a diesel-only generator can consume 45 liters of fuel in an hour.

“The system will not only help mitigate the power problem in the island, but can also help solve commercial waste problems here,” he added.

Carandang said they first tapped Boracay resorts since they qualify as users of the system.

“As a tourist island, resorts here require constant power, and most of the establishment here generates voluminous used cooking oil in their daily operation,” he said.

Yet, resources are becoming scarce.

Businesses are therefore forced to resort to generator sets in order to maintain their services.

As the need to minimize the impact of development becomes a growing concern in Boracay, a local highend resort is pioneering the use of green technology that promotes environmental preservation through effective waste management.

Waste to energy system

Carandang stated that a resort in Boracay can produce about 4,000 liters of used cooking oil monthly.

“Instead of disposing used waste cooking oil, they can now use it as fuel for their generators to produce electricity,” he explained.

Based on their latest fuel efficiency test conducted last April 9 and 10, the resort’s generator runs using six percent of diesel and 94 percent biofuel or used cooking oil.

Ambassador in Paradise Resort is now using the Renergy System, a technology from Japan that allows generators to run on used cooking oil (UCO).

Eco-friendly resort Van der Tak said using the Renergy System is part of their commitment as an eco-friendly resort in Boracay.

Not new to renewable energy, Ambassador in Paradise Resort has been using other environment-friendly technologies in their operations: to ferry their guests, the resort uses two solar-powered cars and six electric cars; all of their 58-rooms are also installed with solar water heaters.

“We will try to bring more eco-energy to the Philippines,” Van der Tak said during Renergy System’s grand launch at the resort last April 23.

The Ambassador in Paradise CEO also lauded the technology saying it is can be a big help in mitigating the power woes of the island.

“It can bring a huge contribution to Boracay, and in other islands in the Philippines where there is no electricity,” he said.

Future of renewable energy The Renergy System was invented by Japanese inventor Osamu Nishikawa.

Nishikawa, a computer software engineer, said it took him 10 years to perfect the system. He said he brought the system to the Philippines to help the country in solving its waste and energy problems.

Carandang said the system is now undergoing Environmental Technology Verification Program by the Department of Science and Technology.

Renergy System is a fuel supply control device that enables the use of UCO as fuel for generators without chemical process.

The Renergy System will also be presented to the Department of Energy for them to be recognized as a renewable energy developer.

“The system is waste-to-energy simplified,” said Jay Carandang, General Manager of Renergy System, Inc. Carandang explained that a machine (KG-1000) worth P2 million is installed at the resort’s generator.

The machine recycles used cooking oil and blends

Joop Van der Tak - CEO Ambassador in Paradise

Jay Carandang - General Manager of Renergy System Inc.

Carandang was happy to disclose that a nearby resort and one in Samal Island in Davao, have expressed interest in the system.

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unique. Most of the houses were displayed with, of course, kiping, fruits and vegetables. Some used salakot (native hat), rice stalks and even swords. One could clearly see what the livelihood of each household is, from farming, to creating handicrafts, and even blacksmiths.

“Kiping” the Culture and Tradition Michael Madriaga

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elebrated every 15th of May in the town of Lucban in Quezon, Pahiyas Festival is known all throughout the country because of its colourful display of agricultural products and its iconic kiping; a leaf-shaped multi-coloured rice paste that is use to decorate homes.

While traveling to Lucban, our group decided to have a bet as to why a festival of such grandeur was named Pahiyas. Some argued that it’s about showing the “hiyas” or treasure but do not know what that is, while some jokingly said that it was named pahiyas so visitor would feel shy (hiya) whenever they eat in their relative or friend’s house during the festivity.

Uncle Matt, a man who has been judging competitions during the festival for quite some time, told a story about how Pahiyas got its name. According to “legend,” even before, people decorated their homes with different agricultural products to tell everyone how good their harvest was. Because of that, some people who only had a few products or didn’t have much extra to decorate their houses felt ashamed, and thus they experience “pahiya” (embarrassment). It was only until everyone kept quiet and had clueless expressions on their faces that Uncle Matt said it was just a joke.

So what is Pahiyas then? Well, it is about thanksgiving to the town’s patron saint, San Isidro Labrador (Patron

Saint of Farmers) for the bountiful harvest. It also serves as a tribute for better harvests in the upcoming years. The festivity is also about treasuring your products and letting everyone know how grateful you are for the gifts and good harvest.

The tour wouldn’t be complete without trying the local delicacies of Lucban. We first came across a store selling fried kiping with brown sugar. At last, we were able to try this iconic treat of Pahiyas. To be honest it just tasted like the normal sweetened rice crispies, but what makes it different is that it has different colours and you know that it’s unique to this town. A few more steps forward, we saw a house where the crowd looked so excited – FREE PANCIT! We then joined the mob to taste the free pancit habhab, though some vendors sell it for just 10 pesos, we still wanted to be a part of the communal joy in tasting the delicacy.

Most of us were already familiar with pancit habhab, there’s actually nothing too special about it, it’s just like the normal pancit canton. What makes it special is how it is eaten, habhab is the action wherein you directly eat your food using your mouth – no utensils needed. And lastly, the Lucban experience wouldn’t be complete without trying the longganisa, the savory flavourful sausages that are perfect for anytime of the day. There are different barbecue stores around town offering grilled longganisa, or if you want to try the fried version, checkout Buddy’s Restaurant just beside the plaza. If you wish to bring home some longganisa, there are also a lot of stores offering it by the dozen for only 150 pesos.

After walking around the town for hours, we decided to go to a nearby attraction, the Kamay ni Hesus.

Kamay ni Hesus is a religious compound wherein you will find different statues of saints. Open areas and cottages are available for picnics. The main attraction in Kamay ni Hesus is the uphill stairs leading to the gigantic statue of Jesus Christ. Along the way, lifesized Stations of the Cross are also on display for pilgrims. According to locals, when you climb the steep stairs and make it to the top, your wish will be granted by Jesus.

The night before the festival, our group visited the town to check out if there were already some festivities happening, and true enough, the towns plaza was filled with locals and tourists partying and singing with live bands. A lot of shops were scattered offering different local products from Quezon such as longganisa, sweet biscuits and candies, and other souvenirs. Almost all the restaurants were occupied and all the streets were filled with people excited for Pahiyas. On our way home, we were able to witness how households decorate their houses; some of them are half-way through while most are busy with the finishing touches for the next day’s competition.

When the next morning came, everyone prepared early for the main event. We headed to the town as early as possible so we could avoid traffic and could find a spot to park our car. Apparently, almost all spaces were taken, and the only way to get to the town is by tricycle. But that was not a problem as everyone was really looking forward to seeing the beautifully decorated houses. We were not disappointed by what we saw, every house we walked by had something

A plan made just a week prior to the festival turned into a success. Our Lucban experience is really memorable and special. From viewing the wonderful displays to filling our stomachs with delicious treats, walking for hours is not really a problem. Even if it rained that day, nothing can stop the Filipino spirit in celebrating such festive occasions, it just symbolized more blessings to come from heaven.

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Viva Independencia: city Slicker

Remembering The Fight For Freedom Samantha Go

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f you take a quick look at the Philippines, you’ll see a country often dubbed as a ‘melting-pot’ because of its ethnically and culturally diverse landscape. It’s a small island nation full of warm smiles, colorful fiestas, and festive holidays. If you take a closer look, however, you’ll see that beyond the joy and revelry is a developing country that was built on the struggles and bravery of the men and women of generations past. It’s because of them that we can be so fortunate today; it’s because of them that we can celebrate another fun-filled Independence Day. So as June rolls in, let’s find out the history behind the holiday that’s truly more than just another day-off.

The journey to our liberation began more than 100 years ago. After being under Spanish rule for almost 400 years, the weary and angered Filipinos led by a steely katipunero named Andres Bonifacio began a series of aggressive rebellions.

Although the Philippine Revolution was in 1896, it was a year earlier that the first day of independence was recorded.

It was on April 12, 1895 that Bonifacio along with other katipuneros headed to Pamitinan Cave in Montalban, Rizal.

There amidst newly initiated members of the Katipunan, Bonifacio wrote Viva La Independencia Filipina (Long Live the Philippine Independence) on the cave walls. At the time, the Katipunan society was a secret one, and their goal

was not yet known by many laymen.

In 1897, the Pact of Biak-na-Bato was signed by representatives of the Spanish and the budding Philippine government.

A clause in the treaty required Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo and other revolutionary leaders to accept exile in Hong Kong.

Despite this pact, the Spanish-American war soon broke out, engulfing the Philippines in bloody combat once more.

After the Battle of Manila Bay, the American forces were able to transport Aguinaldo back to Manila. Once back on his home turf, the leader wasted no time churning out war strategies and morale-boosting campaigns. Arguably, the most powerful of all was his plan to declare independence from the Spaniards in the hopes of inspiring courage and confidence in his people.

His plan worked. The following year, 1898, Aguinaldo chose June 12th as the Day of Independence. The first national Independence Day was celebrated in Cavite with the reading of the Acta de la Proclamacion de la Independencia del Pueblo Filipino written by war counselor Ambrosio Bautista, and the unfurling of the Philippine flag to the National Anthem. Although the proclamation was ratified by other leaders in other provinces, the Philippine independence was not recognized by other nations.

Even the United States, which played a large hand in the battles against the Spanish military forces in the

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Philippines, refused to see the new nation as independent. Instead, the Spanish government signed the Treaty of Paris in 1898 which handed over the Philippines to the USA. Of course, the newly established Filipino government did not accept this and there began the Philippine-American war.

After years of intermittent fighting between the two forces, World War II reached American and Philippine soil.

This inadvertently brought the two sides together to oppose their common enemies. Eventually, on July 4, 1946, the United States gave the Philippines their long yearned independence. The date was chosen to correspond with the US’s own Independence Day. From that point on, the Philippines was a country all its own, though the US maintained several military bases until a few decades ago. The last piece of our walk through the history of the Philippine Independence Day was on May 12, 1962 when the fiercelynationalistic Pres. Diosdado Macapagal proclaimed June 12 as the country’s new and actual day of liberation. With his Presidential Proclamation No.28, he declared every June 12th as a national non-working holiday in observance of our people’s fight for freedom. Before this proclamation, June 12 was National Flag Day which was henceforth moved to May 28, as this was the first day the flag was flown.

Since then, government officials greet the day by gathering early in the morning to see the raising of the flag. The location of this is usually in Rizal Park where National Hero Jose Rizal’s remains are kept. All around the country this special

flag ceremony is also done. Schools and offices are given the day off and a number of commercial establishments either shorten their operating hours or remain closed for the whole day.

Business owners and home owners are all urged to display the Philippine flag, so vendors will often stock plenty of product that display Pinoy pride to boost sales. Parades and parties are also held practically anywhere Filipinos are. In New York, there is an annual Philippine Independence Parade among others around the world.

Truly, anybody who has been to the country can proudly say they have been to the Pearl of the Orient. But we must never forget how we got here in the first place; to paraphrase what Gat. Jose Rizal once said, “Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makararating sa paroroonan” (he who does not look back at where’s he’s been, will never get to his destination)

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ALL EYES ON BORACAY Boracay hosts Apec meetings Karen Bermejo

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

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ven members of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) also deployed its select personnel to help in traffic management operations and relevant crowd control operations during the APEC meetings.

Boracay’s hosting of the APEC meetings coincides with the island’s super peak season. The island showed not just its capability to cater to the needs of its usual flock of tourists, but also as an international events host.

It was the first time Boracay served as a venue for APEC meetings. The APEC meetings in the Philippines in 1996 were held in Manila, Cebu and Davao.

How does Boracay benefit from APEC hosting?

Assistant Secretary Charles Jose of the Department of Foreign Affairs said Boracay was specifically selected as one of the venues for the APEC meetings as an additional promotion of Asia’s 24/7 island.

The APEC preparation, according to Jose, also resulted in road improvements and major facelift of Boracay. Apart from this, Jose revealed that APEC is an opportunity for delegates to experience Boracay for themselves. “Some delegates are even excited to visit Boracay since many of them have heard of Boracay as a famous tourism destination,” he said.

Boracay Foundation Incorporated President Dionisio Salme said the hosting of APEC is an opportunity to showcase what Boracay can offer, at least to members of the Asia-Pacific economies.

The BFI, in partnership with the Department of Tourism has been promoting the island abroad by joining various international exhibitions.

“We are optimistic that this (APEC hosting) could bring long-term impact to the whole island,”Salme added.

The business sector also lauded this rare hosting opportunity.

On redevelopment and tourism growth Meanwhile, the local officials of Boracay and Aklan regard the APEC meetings, especially those that focused on tourism and taxation, as an opportunity to gain outputs on how to balance the island’s redevelopment programs while sustaining its tourism growth.

In her welcome address delivered during the “Conference on Enhancing Tourism Competitiveness in the APEC Region Through Alignment of Tourism and Taxation Policies,” Mabel Bacani, executive assistant to Malay Mayor John Yap, noted that while Boracay is just a small island, about 1,046 hectares only; it was able to capture 26 percent of the country’s tourism market.Bacani heads the Secretariat of the Boracay Redevelopment Task Force. She pointed that Boracay is now on the phase of redevelopment and at the same time focusing on sustaining its development. “It is our target to really come up with a master development plan, a parallel one for the mainland Malay so we can really declog our island from nontourism activities,” she said. “This is to ensure that our sustainable development in the years to come will enable us, not only to improve, but in fact develop new destinations not only in Boracay but also in the rest of the province of Aklan,” she added.

Attributing Aklan’s high tourism receipts to Boracay’s flourishing tourism industry, Governor Florencio Miraflores during the same conference said the province would continue to make tourism a reliable source of livelihood for the people.

The governor also told the APEC delegates of Boracay’s growing cruise tourism industry. “It is now the country`s cruise haven as we received nine cruise ship visits last year,” he said. “Of the figure, four are maiden visits from the world`s most luxurious cruise ship companies. For 2015, 12 cruise ships have been scheduled, mostly Royal Caribbean,” he added.

APEC delegates hear story of Boracay’s origin During the opening of the SOM2 at Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort and Spa on May 20, APEC delegates learned Boracay’s history and how it developed into one of the country’s prime tourism destination.

Of all the stories about Boracay’s origin, Undersecretary Laura del Rosario highlighted the story of how couple Lamberto Tirol and wife Sofia started the island’s improvement.

The Tirol couple is the ancestor of one of the most landed families in the island. According to Del Rosario, the couple is credited for naming the island and the start of the island’s development.

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“When they came to the island, it was still nameless. But one day, Lamberto was at the beach looking seaward and he noticed the froth and foam that formed as the waves hit the white sand in the seashore,” Del Rosario said.

“In the local language he called out to his wife and said ‘Acay, hanggod ka bora, Acay.”

Bora in the local language means bubbles and Acay is a term of endearment which means darling.

“Apparently, one of the natives overheard the conversation and the name Boracay was later on used to refer to this whole island meaning, darling bubbles,” Del Rosario added.

Del Rosario said the Tirol’s decision to settle on the island started the chain of events that later turned Boracay into a tourist destination it is today. From harvesting coconuts and tobacco started by the Tirols, Del Rosario said the economic activities diversified in the island and gradually turned to tourism. “By the 1980s, the island was already beginning to be a popular destination for tourists who wanted to keep it secret, they didn’t want other to come here. But the internet got on the way. So by the 90s, its beaches were claimed as some of the best in the world. Since then, Boracay has become a leading tourist destination and home to tourism related enterprises of different scales,” she said.

Tourism remains high Despite the tight security for APEC, Boracay remains on track of meeting the usual number of tourists.

Based on the records of the Malay Tourism Office, a total of 102,375 tourists visited the island from May 1 to 18 of this year.

If the trend continues, the number of tourist arrivals last year for the month of May, which is 167,506, may be exceeded.

Meanwhile, Malay Councilor Rowen Aguirre, head of the local task group for APEC said activities in the island were not suspended during the whole duration of the event.

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Aklan to earn PHP 1-B from APEC hosting Jun Ariolo Aguirre

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oracay Island - The Aklan provincial government has approximated PHP 1 Billion direct and indirect revenues from hosting the meetings of Asia Pacific Economic Conference (APEC) member economies in this resort island. For others, it offers practically unlimited possibilities.

Aklan Congressman Teodorico Haresco said that the earnings will come from the transportation, meals of the delegates, and other related services.“Hosting an APEC is already a blessing for the province,” said Haresco about Aklan which boosts of its slogan ‘Todo Asenso.’

Ricky Carandang, former communications officer of Malacanang, said in an interview that the hosting of APEC highlights the ‘It’s More Fun in the Philippines’ campaign spearheaded by the Department of Tourism. “This is the time that the world knows about Boracay and the whole country in particular. Delegates will not just attend the series of meetings but will also surely enjoy Boracay including the different tourism activities,” said Carandang.

Boracay Island hosted the two major APEC conferences: the Second Senior Officials Meeting and related meetings on May 9 to 21, and the the meeting of Ministers Responsible for Trade on May 23 to 24.

The island also welcomed researchers from across the Asia-Pacific region who gathered together to share analyses and insights during the 2015 APEC Study Centers Consortium Conference held on May 12 to 13.

The consortium conference is part of the Second Senior Officials Meeting (SOM2) and Related Meetings of APEC and organized by the state think tanks – Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) and the Philippine APEC Study Center Network (PASCN), in partnership with the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) and the Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI).

Some 1,500 high profile delegates joined the APEC meetings and they were billeted in the island’s hotels and resorts.

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The Only Reason Why I don’t Like Traveling Solo: Sign Language IG: @calvinexplores www.seektheworld.com

Calvin Young

s it really hard for you to travel solo?”asked by thousands of travelers around the world.

“Umm, aren’t you traveling solo? I believe you already have the answer for that. It can be hard or easy. It depends really,” I answered.

“No, no, no, sorry is it hard for you to travel solo as a Deaf person?” asked by the thousands of travelers.

“Oh that’s a good question, it has been merely three weeks so far,” I awkwardly answered.

Unfortunately, I can’t really give an answer yet. It’s still too early for me because it’s been only three weeks since I went solo. But throughout the three weeks of my solo trip, that same question has been asked many times. That question has been asked so many times, it’s like each question is a pebble on my shoulder. I just want to get the pebbles off my shoulders, really. So I’ll give you one answer, which I know is entirely true for me.

Traveling solo can be difficult. But the truth is I am a very outgoing person. I’ll always find a way to make new friends. I’ll always find a way to communicate with new friends. I like challenges because I like to destroy these barriers.

Explosions! Booms! It’s clear that traveling solo hasn’t been a problem for me in terms of friends. So, What’s the main problem here?

Sign language. There are countless backpacker from different backgrounds traveling the world. The common thing they all have in traveling is using their voice to speak, which I can’t. They can speak with their voice. I can’t. Yes it’s necessary for me to repeat these because that’s how much I want to emphasize it!

Now that simple questions may have appeared in the back of your mind, “Um, don’t you have a device to communicate with them? Or why don’t you use the traditional way to communicate with them by writing on papers?” I’ve been doing that since the day I started traveling. It’s pretty easy to communicate with them in these methods. But finding people who are willing to take their time to chat using these methods, really slows down the way we communicate. For instance, two deaf people can make a conversation out of many subjects in an hour. Now, a hearing person and deaf person can make a conversation out of two to four subjects in an hour. Why? It takes time to finish up typing or writing your side of the conversation and making sure it makes sense. That blows. I know, my friend.

That isn’t really a problem for me either, though.

Having the inability to use sign language is actually the problem for me. Don’t get me wrong. I do really enjoy communicating with everybody through written English. I really do. It’s just that…

Let me tell you a little about myself. I was born deaf. I am a third generation child from a deaf family. I spent my entire childhood in the Deaf community where I’ve always used my sign language as my main communication method. I am really good at communicating with everybody in sign language. I can easily express anything I want to say. I’m so damn good at using sign language, so much so that this boosts my confidence in general. When I socialize with deaf people, I always converse over countless subjects because I know I can get to finish talking about these subjects quickly.

Frankly, I’m not exactly great at writing. When it comes to writing in English to communicate with people, I always hesitate about what to say, which word I should use, whether my grammar is correct or not, etc. I also don’t get to use my facial expression and body gestures/language. I feel so limited with what I want to communicate. It’s weird and hard for me to try emphasizing or expressing a certain tone of mine in English so my message will be 100% clear.

It also restricts me from discussing more and delving deeper with certain topics due to insufficient time because writing on a paper or typing on a device takes a while. Sometimes a topic can easily be done in five minutes. Sometimes I could tell how boring it is for some people to wait for me to finish writing. Things become harder for me if the person I approach isn’t good in writing either. It’s really hard. But does that bother me? No, what bothers me the most is not being able to use my own native language.

That’s what hit me really hard during my solo traveling. I realize how much I really value my sign language. It dawned on me how much I really love signing.

I can now understand why the Deaf community really values its language.

Most languages I know rely on its writing. For my language, it relies on facial expressions, body movements, and the hand signs. It’s these attributes that make me feel more powerful and confident with whatever I want to say. Isn’t that cool?

All I know for sure is that American Sign Language is my language. Nothing will ever change that!

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Dog breeding 101 Jeff Mancao

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Shiva Nand

Meditating is deceptively simple. Two monks are sitting side by side, meditating. The younger one is giving the older one a quizzical look, to which the older one responds, “Nothing happens next. This is it.”

There are numerous backyard breeders trying to jump in and breed dogs with almost no knowledge or understanding of the breed. Their main goal is just to have profit when they sell the breed making it look like a business venture without much animal compassion. Find someone who has a great deal of experience to mentor you, teach you, and give you the guidance you need in proper breeding. It should include your long-term commitment to the breed, health and safety of the bitch (female dog) and her puppies.

Breeding is a 24/7 commitment. You do it for the love of the breed. With all these things in mind, ask yourself, “Am I now ready to breed?”

The moment you know something of meditation – not about it, but the very taste of it – a great release comes. Suddenly all tensions disappear: anxieties, anguishes, are found no more.

Once you have tasted meditation it is impossible for you to be in any misery. Bliss becomes inevitable, a natural showering, and it goes on showering like flowers showering from the sky.

Hence, I say the only essential thing, the real core of all religion, of all yoga, of all methods of search, is meditation. One should put aside everything nonessential. You can use things as stepping-stones, or jumping boards, but not more than that. You need not bother too much about them. Your whole concern should be one-pointed; you should move like an arrow towards meditation. Only then in this small life, with so little time, power and energy available

Locker Room Etiquette Richard Cepeda Go

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In the case of some cultures and sports teams it is not unusual for members of the same gender to move about in the nude while in the privacy of the locker room. Yet one must consider that in an exercise club setting there are a mix of private individuals who have their own sensibilities about this.

It is best to be on the safe side of practicing a generally accepted set of manners and etiquette so as not to offend anyone and avoid possible misunderstandings.

For everyone’s sake and especially your own, you should wrap a towel around your waist when you walk in and out of the shower. This cover-up is considerate of other people especially should you have to pause for a drink from the water fountain or to chat with someone.

On the subject of conversation, you should keep it brief so as to be able to vacate the area and give other people a chance to dress up.

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Meditation is the key to your health and well-being

Meditation is the practice of turning your attention to a single point of reference. It can involve focusing on the breath, on bodily sensations, or on a word or phrase known as a mantra. In other words, meditation means turning your attention away from distracting thoughts and focusing on the present moment.

I must admit, we had our ups and downs - breeding is not an easy task. You need to study the breed of the dog, provide the right needs, care and nutrition.

For us, it is very hard to lose a pup or its mother due to lack of knowledge in proper caring. Our dogs are part of our family and we should treat them right.

ot too many people I know are comfortable undressing (and dressing up) in front of other people. This makes it a bit awkward when you have been on the court, swam or had a sweaty workout in the gym and you intend to go to some other engagement afterwards. You will want to get out of those perspirationsoaked clothes and wash up. Whether you do a quick wipe-off or take a full-blown shower, there will be times that that other members may be in the changing area at the same time as you.

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editation is a practice in which an individual focuses the mind or fosters a mode of awareness, either to realize some benefit or for the mind to simply acknowledge the information without becoming identified with that information.

am a breeder for almost six years now and very blessed to be surrounded by a team who supports my advocacy – breed with compassion and dedication.

Good luck!

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Although the changing room is for the use of several people at the same time, you should respect other people’s right to privacy. Allow a comfortable amount of space to be between you and the nearby guys. Look elsewhere so that he is not in your direct line of sight when he is changing. Be especially conscious about handling your cellphone in the locker room. You do not want to be accused of making recordings in here.

Keep your noise down whether it is when talking with other exercisers or on your phone. A lot of people come to the gym to burn off stress and get away from a hectic life. The locker area is where they gather their thoughts as they prepare to get back into the world.

Let them be at their own pace.

As you dress, make sure that your gear is not monopolizing too much space on the benches. It is most annoying when you cannot sit down to put on your socks and shoes because the bench is overloaded by one guy’s stuff.

Be careful when applying cologne or sports sprays. Just a short spritz is enough. More than that is just suffocating for people nearby.

When you are dressed, check the area you used. Wipe up any wet areas caused by you and throw any tissues or other trash of yours.

These acts of consideration will ensure that you will be looked on favorably by the other members and the gym staff.

and with so many problems surrounding you, can you hope that the arrow will reach the target.

One of the best meditations for a beginner is focusing on the breath. Sit in a comfortable position with a straight spine and begin to bring all your attention to your breath. Start by pulling the air in through your nose; while the air comes in try to get it to touch the back of your throat. Allow the air to pass through the nose like a passageway; you should hear a subtle hissing sound around the throat area.

In Yoga we call this Ujai breath, which translates from Sanskrit to English as victory. After you inhale, hold the breath in for a count of 5, you may count like this, 1 asana, 2 asana, 3 asana, etc. Then exhale all the air out and hold the breath out for the same count of 5.

If it is too easy, your concentration may be more difficult, you can increase the holds as much as 25 counts for both inhale and exhale when you become more comfortable.

For supreme results please check in with Shiva Nand, Earth Yoga Boracay.

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Destination Island Wedding and Beyond Bryan Madera

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A beach wedding seems unattainable for some brides but Boracay can give you that dream and more with its overflowing amenities. There are various hotels that host sunset beach weddings such as Discovery Shores Boracay, Asya Premier Suites, and Boracay’s ShangriLa to name the cream of the crop. Other hotels even offer snorkeling as an after wedding activity for guests.

Boracay is aptly dubbed as Asia’s 24/7 island getaway.

Wedding guests of all ages will surely enjoy the beach and relaxation the island can offer from extreme water sports, to diving, to beach bars and beach parties, and to spa treatments, golf, and yoga.

Boracay also offers endless possibilities for prewedding events like beach picnics in Puka Beach, sunset cruises on yachts, pub crawl or bar hopping, and spa days.

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oracay Island is the perfect getaway to say your “I do’s” with family and close friends, with its turquoise water, pristine beaches, and dramatic sunsets. It is the ideal destination to spend a quality holiday to celebrate the union of two souls.

It is a part of Filipino culture to celebrate any occasion with family. Filipinos residing abroad prefer to celebrate their matrimony with their loved ones based in the Philippines while considering the colleagues and friends they have in their second home. Bringing both sides of the world on the island resort is the best choice. Of course, Boracay is also for foreign couples who want to celebrate their wedding on a paradise island. There were, in fact, couples who planned their weddings solely over e-mails and Skype calls with their island based wedding coordinator.

Inviting your guests for a destination wedding and getting to the island is also easier than you’d think.

Reaching Boracay wherever you are in the world is now doable with Kalibo Airport’s connecting flights to international hubs like Singapore, Malaysia, China, Taiwan, and Korea. Caticlan Airport is soon to open with upgraded runways to cater to night flights and expected international flights. For older relatives there are also private transfers to cross the island.

Boracay has been the top destination wedding venue in the Philippines and in Asia with sought after Philippine wedding suppliers from Manila expanding their services to cater to island weddings. There are also homegrown competitive local suppliers in the island such as Amanda Tirol of Boracay Weddings & Events, Bordoy Photography and Mayad Studios Boracay. They offer wedding coordination, photography and videography services, respectively.

Another reason for a Boracay Wedding, bias aside, is having a chance to work with Boracay’s famous Sand Boracay Weddings & Events. With their expertise on Boracay weddings, they can turn your carefree dream wedding turn into a reality.

Whoever your guests are and wherever they’re from, there are wide varieties of accommodations for guests depending on their budget from luxury hotels to budget hostels.

Don’t forget to support locally made products as this will help the local communities in the nearby town and at the same time lessen the carbon footprint.

When all is said and done, you’ll have the magical wedding you’ve always wanted, and Boracay island was there to bring it to life.

Islands Souvenirs Cut & Style Joins #Laboracay 2015 Last Labor Day Weekend, thousands of sun-worshippers, vacationers, beach bums and party-goers converged on the paradise island of Boracay to celebrate the Summer. For the first time ever, Islands Souvenirs joined the festivities by bringing its Cut and Style campaign to the shores of Boracay.

Cut and Style features Islands Souvenirs’ special edition Boracay Summer shirt designs that can be personalized and customised according to each customer’s individual style. Cut and Style lets customers create their very own Summer Shirt for that ultimate #OOTD - paint it, embellish it, tear it, wear it any way they like. Studs, cropped top, paint, you name it!

What perfect way to show off their summer beach fashion and stand

out from the crowd than with a Cut and Style type that is uniquely their own.

As an even more special treat for everyone, Islands Souvenirs partnered with Boracay Crown Regency with lots of exciting surprises, prizes and freebies being given away including Oceanarium Passes and discounts to Water Adventure Wave Pool, Wave Ride plus lunch and dinner buffet discounts at Crown Regency’s restaurants.

It was one great weekend in Boracay as Cut and Style became a big success. Get your own exclusive Boracay shirts today! Visit any nearest Islands Souvenirs store at the following locations: D’ Mall (behind Epic Bar), Station 2 Beachfront (15m from Boracay Uptown), D’ Talipapa in Station 3, Fairways and Bluewaters, Boracay Tourist Center, Station 3 and Eurotel, Station 3. Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/theislandsway

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Getting to know some of Boracay’s Superdads island souls

Rica Velasco

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his June, as we celebrate the patriarchs of the family, let us delve into the lives of some of the fathers who, at one point or another, you may have interacted with on this island.

he moved to Boracay eight months ago for a better career opportunity in order to support his wife and two children, who are 7 and 6 years old. Mario works for 12 hours a day but does not complain as he says the job is quite easy to handle. He does not take any days off but rather accumulates them so that he can go home to Bacolod.

As he is away from his children, he calls them often to see how they are doing. He reminds them to always study and to take care of each other, as well as their mother. They sometimes tell him that they miss him and they would like to have him come home, but they understand why he has to be away.

Although he would love for his family to come visit him on Boracay, it simply costs too much to do so.

Niño Ace works in D’Talipapa fish market as a vendor at Mumai Fish Section. Originally from Kalibo, straight out of high school, Niño was enticed to work in Boracay because of the lucrative opportunities it offers. Although working hours are long (6AM to 9PM everyday with a few hours break in between) one can clearly notice the enthusiasm and vigor that Niño has for his job.

One would think, being a security guard who enforces rules on a daily basis that Mario is a strict father, but on the contrary he is quite a loving one. Rather than get angry at the children when they do something wrong, he gently reprimands them and explains their errors. He even says “I am reprimanding you because I love you”. His advice for other fathers: “Always think of your family even when you encounter problems, just be patient and sacrifice, and always pray to God to shower you with blessings.”

He met the mother of his son on the island, and became a father at the young age of 19. He was surprised yet extremely happy to learn the news that he was going to be a father. His son is now about to turn two years old. When asked how he managed to prepare himself for fatherhood, he stated that his own father instilled in him, even as a child, how important it is to take care of children.

Niño is able to provide just enough to support his partner and child, who both reside in Ibajay on the mainland. He has a day off once a week and is able to travel home to see them. He hopes that his son would become a doctor someday. His advice for other fathers who are not constantly with their children is to work hard and avoid any temptation, for this is for the future of the child who may someday end up taking care of you.

Mario is employed as a security guard for Field Harvest Security Agency. Originally from Bacolod,

Jimmy moved to Boracay in 1998 and has worked as a Resort Manager for various resorts. He is currently with Le Soleil De Boracay and is a familiar face around the island. He has a 39 year old son and two grandchildren from his first marriage. He sees them every two years, either by visiting them in USA or having them visit him on the island.

From his second relationship, he has two children and one stepdaughter, all residing in Manila with their mother. He spends time with them almost every month when he goes to Manila for work or holiday. They also visit him every summer on the island. He has a tendency to spoil them to make up for the hours that he is not around, but he also reminds them that there are limits. Although his children are not fond of his absence, he stresses that he is doing this to provide for them, and that everybody needs to sacrifice for the greater good.

Jimmy always emphasized to his children how he was brought up - responsible, independent, with Christian values, a Jesuit education, respectful of other people - and he tries to instil these same values in them.

His advice to other fathers who are away from their children is to always have a communication line, always be available for the children and be there to support them, let them know that they are always in your thoughts.

Ed lived in Boracay for a short while 10 years ago and moved back here again in 2012. When asked why he wants to live here, he replied “Who wouldn’t?”. Ed is currently a pole dancing and jazz dance instructor for The Vessel at Mandala Spa and Villas. He is actually to be credited for introducing pole dancing as an exercise in the Philippines. Ed has a real passion for dancing and has been part of popular dance groups such as Adrenalin, Powerdance, and Hotlegs, to name a few.

Ed has one daughter who is now 24 years old. One could say that he is not a conventional father, as he is not a heterosexual male. That said though, he has gone above and beyond the role of being a father as he has taken care of his daughter since birth. He notes, “Raising her as a single dad would not have been possible without the help of my family. We were also lucky that we were surrounded with good friends that made us feels like family.”

His technique in raising his daughter was to be a good example and show unconditional love. He proved to be a good example indeed, as his daughter followed in his footsteps and is now also a pole dancing instructor, aside from being a ramp and commercial model.

In the beginning, their relationship was more like a traditional father and daughter, however nowadays they act more as close friends, going out, drinking, and partying together. His advice to fathers is that being a father is not just providing your kids with material things; one must also spend quality time with them.

Be a part of their life.

A huge amount of respect to these four fathers and all fathers out there for the sacrifices they have made to provide a wonderful life for their children.

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TATAY Verna Fajilan-Brazil

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t 31, he carried his youngest daughter in his arms for the first time. In a few months, he had to suck the mucus out of his baby’s clogged nose because she was too young to know how to deal with a cold and couldn’t breathe.

At 34, he came up with a bright idea to bring that daughter to her very first ballet class. That idea was the start of his daughter’s lifetime passion with dance. To this day he is still debating if that move was a good one or not.

At 36, he had to leave home to work in a different place so he can earn more for his family. He endured the lonely weeks and months away from his loved ones just so they could have a more stable life.

At 40, he risked his life driving down a treacherous mountain trail, going over and around the landslides and cavedin roads. He did it because his family requested him to be home for that particular weekend.

At 45, he sat down and helped his daughter by shedding light on her Advanced Chemistry assignment, trying to explain the theory in his own terms while she didn’t believe that he really knew what he was talking about. That night, he missed an important golf tournament on TV he was looking forward to. The next day, the doubting

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daughter would come home and say that his theory was right indeed.

At 48, he would visit his children in another city where they lived during their college years. It was going to be fun time where he’d get to see his kids who were away from home. He would end up being a handyman, custodian, and personal laundry service.

At 54, he finally achieved his dream --- to buy his own car. He enjoyed his car for three straight days, driving it 155 miles just to see where his daughter was currently living. But he wanted his 23 year old daughter to be safe going home from late night ballet rehearsals so he let go of his first car after less than a week in his possession and gave it to his daughter instead.

At 57, he sold the stock shares he had been keeping for years. He spent the money he earned on a two week solo trip to Europe. It was his daughter who took the trip to see if she could pursue a career there. She came back with photos and wonderful memories.

At 60, he mustered all his strength to keep up with his daughter who wanted to hike, climb, and trek since nobody else in the family was interested in doing that. He took photos of his daughter and posed when she asked him to. He smiled all the way without complaining --- even if he was dead tired and even if his back and gout-ridden feet were killing him.

At 63, he would go online as fast as lightening because his daughter who was overseas had just sent a text message saying, “SKYPE!!!!” Once online, she

would ask what they were doing and where the dogs were. They would end up talking on Skype for hours, kidding each other, making faces, and even comparing the food that they were eating.

At 65, he was greeted by shocking news that his youngest daughter had decided to get married to a man he barely knew. Still dealing with his shock and disbelief, he ended up being the errand-guy and wedding coordinator as both the bride and groom-to-be were planning their nuptials from overseas.

At 68, he took a plane out of the Philippines to visit his daughter and spend time with her and her husband. He helped them carry heavy boxes full of

materials for her dance school’s recital, had a date with bundles of thread and needles as they sewed costumes, burned his hands with the hot glue used on props, and spent sleepless nights editing write-ups for the souvenir programs among others.

Today, as he reads this, he will probably cringe and wish that his daughter hadn’t written all these tidbits down. He’d rather keep all these good things about him to himself. But a father of this caliber deserves to be known.

Already, I can now hear him say, “Pambihira naman itong anak ko, o.

Same-same talaga sa nanay.”

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Sweet Sunny Treats Michael Madriaga

ost of us love to start our day with a hearty breakfast, and when you are in Boracay, Café del Sol is a go-to for that perfect morning in the beach. Café del Sol is located right at the beachfront and serves an array of hearty breakfast meals and sweet treats and, of course, that perfect cup of coffee.

Indulge on their varied selection which includes our Filipino favorites: tapa (marinated beef strips) and daing na bangus (milkfish marinated in vinegar), or western-style meals with toast, omelets, and sausages. Complete your meal with their many different flavors of coffee and frappes – we highly recommend our favorite Caramel Macchiato. Non-coffee based beverages are also available from fruit shakes to chocolate drinks.

A coffee shop isn’t complete without a wide array of pastries and cakes, and everyone will surely enjoy Café del Sol’s specialties. Showcasing our native delicacies like cassava cake and bibingka, as well as other café classics like cheesecakes, your cravings will be satisfied. Make sure to try the Ube Leche Flan Cake, two favorite desserts combined into one. The fluffy ube cake perfectly complements the generous serving of leche flan on top. It will make you remember those summer days spent in your grandma’s house surrounded by the warm and comforting aromas of sweets. Other must-try desserts are the Mango Cheesecake for the fruit lovers, and Carrot Cake for those who want a healthy sweet treat. If you’re looking to share the joy, whole cakes are also available but make sure to place your order a day before.

Café del Sol is located at the beachfront side of D’Mall, Station 2.

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Experiencing Japan in Boracay Joel James Cubillas

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long with the continuous development of Boracay is the rise of its diverse food hubs. Restaurants with foreign cuisines pepper the urban and coastal communities of the tropical island.

It may seem a bit odd to find a Japanese Restaurant along the shore, but Hama, an authentic Japanese Restaurant nestled in Station 2, makes it work for they serve fresh and scrumptious Japanese gastronomic delights.

Cordon Bleu Maki

Sushi and Sashimi Platter

Salmon Three Way Salad

Ramen

Their Cordon Bleu Maki, an ethereal roll of textures and flavors, is among the best I’ve tasted. The combination of cream cheese, pistachio nuts, rice, chicken, and bacon is a play on texture which made my mouth feel like it was a haven of cross-cultural delicacies. It has a distinct combination of gooey and crispy in each bite which no other dish could offer. Its generous kick of mayonnaise summed up what seemed to be a grandiose marriage of European and Asian cuisine.

Their Sushi and Sashimi platter is eye candy. The fresh colors of raw salmon, flounder, and tuna, plus the prawn in pastel orange are enthusing. The garnishes, with their summery colors, hint of a tropical feel. The dip, on the other hand, is a sweet and sour concoction. Sushi and sashimi might be for people with an acquired taste, but thanks to its delightful presentation, eating raw delicacies couldn’t be less intimidating.

It’s called such because the main ingredients are salmon meat, salmon egg, and salmon skin. It’s hard not to be curious of salmon eggs -- those round and bright oranges reminiscent of Dragon Balls. They serve as the dish’s toppings. I didn’t know what to expect out of it, but a burst of flavor came out when I tried one out. It certainly has a flavor that compliments the whole dish.

The meat and skin are perfectly treated, emphasizing the salmon taste -- delicious!

It couldn’t be more savory. The noodles, too, are rich and tasty. The buta no kakuni (Japanese braised pork, one of the main ingredients of this serving) is tendered and glazed to perfection.

The Naruto fishcake certainly provides novelty and, more importantly, kind of balances the meal which packs a punch of umami goodness.

Other flavors include beef, chicken, and seafood.

Japanese culture dictates that one must consume his meal down to the last rice grain. Otherwise, he will be considered rude and will be frowned upon. Luckily, we didn’t have any problem finishing our meals thanks to Hama’s dedication of serving fresh, authentic, and superbly executed Japanese cuisine.

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BORACAY SUN

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Buon Appetito!

Michael Madriaga

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izza and pasta – these are things that people usually associate with Italian cuisine, and which most of us regard as comfort food. Pasta and pizza parlors have dramatically increased in our country, but when you’re in Boracay, there is one place you must visit to satisfy your Italian cravings, and that is Aria Cucina Italiana. On a regualr day, it is normal that most of Aria’s seats are occupied.

That’s because they’ve gained a following not only with locals but also among guests. Plus, most people recommend them to new arrivals on the island.

Having an Italian chef puts Aria at the top with their authentic Italian cuisine and mouthwatering dishes. Starting with salads, Insalata di Uva, Lattuga, Acciuga e Mozzarella (lettuce, grapes, anchovies and fresh mozzarella). The fresh greens topped with sweet grapes and savory cheese is made awesome by the additional flavors coming from the anchovies and balsamic vinaigrette dressing.

For pastas, they have the basics that we love such as bolognese, carbonara, and pesto among others. If you want to try something different but with true Italian flavors, Amatraciana (bacon and tomatoes topped with pecorino cheese) and Marinara (tomato with seafood variants) are also available. Their pizzas though are the main reason why people usually visit Aria, from the basic staples like Hawaiiana and Pepperoni to the unfamiliar ones like Frutti di Mare (seafood) and Napoli (anchovies). If you wish to try everything,

INDULGE order the Quatro Stagioni which is a pizza wherein four flavors are combined for you to have a taste of their different flavors such as: Napoli, Frutti di Mare, Bascaiola (ham, mushroom and cheese) and Aria (parma ham and mozzarella).

For those who would prefer rice and meats over a plate of pasta or pizza, Aria’s main dishes, which range from pork, chicken, beef, and even lamb, are perfect for you. Their Costata di Manzo (grilled rib-eye) is beautifully cooked with the beef flavorful and tender. And for those who love to eat fish, Salmon al Pepe Verde is highly recommended. The slab of salmon is upgraded with Aria’s specially-made pepper sauce which highlights the natural flavors of the fish more.

For that sweet finale on every meal, partake of Aria Gelato’s various offerings. Choose from the basics like chocolate and vanilla to the more specialized like hazelnut (which tastes like Nutella) and even Calamansi. If you want more twist with your dessert, try their Tartufo Deluxe – your choice of gelato flavor covered with a chocolate shell and hazelnuts – sounds great, right?

Visit Aria Cucina Italiana and Aria Gelato along the beachfront of station 2 right at the entrance of D*Mall.

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JUNE 2015

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BORACAY SUN

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INDULGE

Kids Making Father’s Day More Special! cHEF lOWELL CAUILAN

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t wasn’t until six decades after Mother’s Day was declared a holiday that fathers were given the same recognition in the US. June 1966 was the date when Father’s Day was officially celebrated nationally. Today, Father’s Day marks the day when we all celebrate the significance and value of our dads.

This day is also when we show our appreciation for them. Father’s day is not limited anymore to our biological fathers but also extends to our grandfathers, step-dads, and all the men who act as a father figure in our lives.

We have always seen fathers as providers, as pillars of our family, and as men who would do everything to care and protect us. Now is the best time to show to them that on this day, we can take care of everything for them.

Southern Fried Chicken

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JUNE 2015

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It is always a great idea to involve our kids in preparing something special for our fathers and we all know that the closest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach!

This month, we would like to share dishes that every father will enjoy and can be prepared by our children. Following is a simple menu set, with recipes made by PACE Chefs with CDO Foodsphere & Klio. Dishes like Southern Fried Chicken, Jambalaya, and Vanilla Bread Pudding are easy recipes taught in our Start Them Young! Class. This course takes place every summer in all PACE branches.

These easy yet tasty dishes are not only kid-friendly but will also certainly melt any father’s heart and satisfy their appetite.

So why not try it now and let us all surprise our dads by showing that on their day, we will take care of everything! Happy Father’s Day to all fathers!

For more inquiries on PACE’s Lifestyle Courses and Culinary Programs, please visit or call our branches in 2F Ciannat Complex, Marcos Highway, Antipolo City T:654.4862 and in #2 Presidents Avenue, Tahanan Village, Paranaque City T: 238.0968 or visit our website: www.pacemanila.com.

Ingredients: 200 g 50 g ½ tsp ½ tsp ½ tsp

Procedure: Chicken Thigh Fresh Milk Garlic powder Onion powder Paprika Salt and pepper to taste

Gravy 10 g 5 g 5 g 10 g 30 ml

Butter Onions Garlic Flour Stock

Marinade:

Parsely, roughly chopped Salt and pepper to taste

1. Marinate chicken with milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside for 5-10 minutes.

2. Dredge chicken in flour and pan fry over medium heat until skin is golden brown and juices run clear when chicken is pierced.

3. For the GRAVY: Sauté onions and garlic in butter. Add in flour, making sure to break any clumps.

4.

Add the stock and marinating liquid. Simmer until gravy has thickened to desired consistency.

5. Season with salt and pepper.

Stir in parsley.

Jambalaya

Vanilla Bread Pudding

Ingredients:

Procedure:

5 pieces Chicken wings, cut up 1 piece Andouille sausage, sliced ½ cup Onion, chopped ¼ cup Garlic, minced 1/2 cup Bell pepper, paysanne ¼ cup Diced Tomato, canned ¼ cup Celery 1 cup Rice 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp Tabasco 2 cups Chicken Stock 1 tbsp Old bay seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste Olive oil

1. Heat up oil in a sauce pan.

Brown chicken wings then add sausage. Once meat is cooked, add in vegetables and sauté.

Ingredients:

Procedure:

For the pudding

1. Pre-heat oven at 180˚C. Brush a ramekin (6 oz) with butter. Arrange croutons inside ramekin.

2 cups Croutons

2. Stir in rice. Season well. Add in stock then let boil. Allow to simmer until rice is fluffy.

Adjust seasoning to taste.

For the custard ½ cup ½ cup 2 2 3 tsp 1 tsp 1 tsp ¼ cup ¼ cup 1 tsp

Condensed milk All Purpose Cream Whole eggs Egg yolks Corn starch Vanilla Butter, softened Butter, softened Confectioner’s sugar Cinnamon

2. In a bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the custard until smooth. Pour custard over prepared croutons. Shake ramekin to evenly spread custard. Bake for 20 – 25 minutes until custard is set and pudding is light brown in color 3. Remove pudding from oven.

Brush with remaining butter and dust with sugar and cinnamon.

Serve warm. If desired, top with cream and golden raisins.

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