BORACAY SUN | November 2015 Issue

NOVEMBER 2015 | VOL. V NO. 11 | BORACAY’S MONTHLY NEWS ON RECYCLED PAPER

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IN THE NEWS EXPAT FILES 7107 ISLANDS CENTERFOLD CULTURE PEOPLE LIFESTYLE INDULGE IN ROOM

BORACAY: STILL IN WORLD’S BEST LIST BLANCHE POSADAS-BASCO

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midst the strong winds and thunderstorms, Boracay has prevailed in keeping its magnificence in attracting tourists all over the world.

Acknowledged as one of the best islands in the world by Conde Naste Traveler, a luxury and lifestyle travel magazine based in New York City, Boracay continuously boasts of gleaming white sand beaches, pristine waters, perfect sunsets and thriving nightlife.

Beach bumming is not just the definitive experience in the island. The changing weather is not an issue either. Watersports and other water activities such as sailing, snorkeling, and diving can be enjoyed all year round. And, of course, the island’s night life could draw in a crowd of people of different ages.

Boracay is also a haven for food spotting. Popular hotels and restaurants abound not just at the White Beach area but all the way to the kitesurfing and windsurfing

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7107 ISLANDS Sibuyan Island

Rotary Club Masquerade Ball

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Take Me to the Beach

beach of Bulabog. Shopping for indigenous pieces made out of coconut husks and seashells, and even for wood carvings and peculiar arts is likewise a joy.

Cliché as it may seem but nothing beats the wonder the island carries; beguiling local and international tourists alike. Rain or shine, with or without the windbreakers, Boracay will constantly remain a tropical paradise and one of the country’s entries to the hottest holiday destination in the world.

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Alaska

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EDITOR’S NOTE

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SWEET NOVEMBER. Three weeks ago, a close friend shared the antics of her 4-year old son while they were malling. Her son, apparently, just stopped on his tracks exclaiming with arms akimbo, “No! It’s not Christmas yet! There’s still Halloween!

Halloween first!” Disappointment written all over his face as he surveyed the mall that was already decorated with the glitters and vibrant colors of Christmas.

Indeed, for the “little” minority of our population, there is one much-awaited event before the Christmas season – it’s Halloween. November comes before December, after all. And while most of us adults tend to plan more for the holiday season, kids and the kids at heart await this activity that includes trick-or-treating and attending costume parties.

The term Halloween is a contraction of All Hallows’ Eve or what we commonly refer to as All Saints’ Eve that is observed on the night of October 31. In the liturgical calendar, it is a part of the three-day Allhallowtide celebration, the time dedicated for remembering the dead including saints (hallows), martyrs, and all the faithful departed. In Boracay, Halloween is characterized by the related ‘guising’ and partying that lasts until the wee hours of November 1, that is All Saints’ Day. Let us not also forget that November, made sweet by the candy treats for trick-or-treating kids, also brought us our Revolutionary Hero, Andres Bonifacio, whose birthday we celebrate on the 30th. Bonifacio led a life of self sacrifice for our country, much like Nelson’s love for Sara in their life-changing affair in the movie, Sweet November.

COVER

By Beth Jalea

ROTARY CLUB OF BORACAY Rotary International District 3850 WWW.BORACAYSUN.COM

Managing Editor MICHAEL JEROME MADRIAGA Senior Editors BLANCHE BASCO & BETH JALEA Junior Editors SACHI GO & SAMANTHA GO Art Director ALVA ALVAREZ Photographer KARLA PARAYNO Columnists DENISE BENTULAN, JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS KLAUS DORING, HOLLY GOLIGHTLY RICA VELASCO Contributors JUN AGUIRRE, KAREN BERMEJO, PATRICIA HERNANDEZ, SPO1 CHRISTOPHER MENDOZA, REYNALDO PEREZ-RAMOS, MELISA RILI, THINKERBELL Contributing Photographers DR. LHEN BRUTTON, JACK JARILLA & JULIUS OLARTE

UKAY-UKAY SA BORACAY Sunday - November 22, 2015 Balabag Plaza, Boracay Island

A fund raising event for the benefit of Rotary Club of Boracay Feeding Program

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Publisher THE BORACAY WALLSTREET INC. President & CEO MA. TERESA FAJILAN-BECH Sales and Marketing Manager MICHELLE ELIZON Operations Manager JOANN BARRIOS Boracay Sun Office Monaco Crossing Tulubhan, Manoc Manoc, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan 5608 editorial@boracaywallstreet.com

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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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Boracay steps up emergency response capability thru mobile app KAREN BERMEJO

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Filipino-developed mobile system that aims to cut down response time as well as track and manage incidents and emergencies in real time is now being utilized by emergency responders in Boracay Island.

The Pure Force Citizens App, developed by Pure Force and Response Corporation, is patterned with the 911 system of the United States, according to the company’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Jojo Soliman.

Soliman said the free mobile application is envisioned to connect emergency response agencies in a certain area to give immediate help to people.

For the initial implementation of the system, Pureforce has donated six specialized tablets to be utilized by the emergency response agencies in the island.

Aside from the tablets, the company also donated two desktop computers for the command center of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Malay which will be used for dispatching operation.

How it works Anyone can download the app using their smartphones and will need to register their mobile number to www.pureforce505.com in order to activate the application.

“Through this app, tourists and residents of Boracay could now report their emergencies which will be automatically directed to the command center for them to send response team immediately,” Soliman explained.

The training was organized by Pure Force and Rescue Corporation in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Malay. It was participated by representatives from the MDRRMO, Boracay Tourist Assistance Center, Bureau of Fire Protection, Emergency Medical Service of the Philippine Red Cross- Boracay Chapter, Boracay Fire Rescue and Ambulance Volunteers of Boracay Action Group, Task Group Boracay of the Philippine Army, Phil Coast Guard-Boracay, Malay Auxiliary Group and the Tourism Regulatory Enforcement Unit.

Aside from Boracay, the app has also been adopted by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and by the 17 local government units in the National Capital Region, as well as in Cebu and Butuan.

Soliman said they are also eyeing to launch the system in Palawan, General Santos City and Roxas City in Capiz.

“We aim to reach every city and local government units in the country,” he said.

The app enables users to send emergency reports through the icons displayed or they could send a text message stating the help they needed. For those who don’t have a smartphone, they can connect to the system by calling the national emergency hotline number (02) 86505, explained Soliman.

The app, according to Soliman will notify the command center or the MDRRMO of what kind of help someone needs - immediate medical care, fire rescue, or police assistance.

Newly-installed MDRRMO Chief Marlo Schoenenberger said the Pure Force app will be used to augment the existing and current emergency response system of the island.

Schonenberger, who formerly heads the Boracay Chapter of the Philippine Red Cross, said it is important to adopt new technologies in order to develop the most effective way in keeping the island’s residents and tourist safe.

He said the local authorities continue to improve their contingency measures as well as the capability of its people.

Meanwhile, Malay Mayor John Yap said the introduction of the system in the island is timely especially with the peak season.

“We expect the influx of tourists in the coming months. With this technology, we hope that we could provide immediate help when they need it.” the Mayor added.

Training To equip the various agencies involved in the rescue and security services in the island, a three-day Disaster/Emergency Response System Mobile Responders Training was held from September 30 to October 2 at Eurotel Hotel.

http://www.pureforce505.com/

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POLICE DESK

IN THE NEWS

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Philippines to host 31st ASEAN Maritime Transport Working Group

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2015 International Coastal Clean-up SPO1 CHRISTOPHER DEL ROSARIO MENDOZA

SPO1 CHRISTOPHER DEL ROSARIO MENDOZA

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he Island of Boracay will be hosting yet another international event on April 6-8, 2016, the 31st ASEAN Maritime Transport Working Group (MTWG).

“This international gathering will be attended by one hundred fifty (150) delegates composed of heads from the ten (10) ASEAN member-countries (Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam); representatives from Germany, Japan, Korea, China, India maritime organizations; other private NGOs in ASEAN as well as local participants from various sectors,” said Dir Sonia Malaluan from the Manpower Development Service of MARINA Central Office.

The ASEAN member-states will meet to plan, implement and monitor the programs of the ASEAN MTWG.

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undreds of volunteers from different sectoral groups and even tourists visiting the island joined the 2015 International Costal Clean Up (ICC) Day last September 19. The ICC is an annual international event held every 19th of September that is dedicated to the improvement of beaches, coastal regions and surrounding areas throughout the world.

Dir Malaluan added that the group was created to facilitate the development and execution of time-bound and concrete actions, provide technical overview and coordinate the implementation of the roadmap towards an integrated and competitive maritime transport in ASEAN member-countries.

Boracay volunteers gathered along the beaches of the island to collect solid waste materials composed of cigarette butts, bottles, foil packs, plastics and other nonbiodegradable materials.

The Philippines assumes the chairmanship of the MTWG (2016-2017) and is tasked to host the ASEAN MTWG Meetings during its term.

Personnel of Boracay Tourist Assistance Center (BTAC) headed by PSI Fidel T. Gentallan, OIC, also participated in line with the group’s CODE BLUE Project.

P.Supt. Danilo Delos Santos, Chief of Aklan Tourist Police Unit and PSI Fidel T. Gentallan, Officer In-Charge, attended the coordination meeting for the security and order preparations of this event held at the Conference Room of Casa Pilar Beach Resort on September 18, 2015.

Mayor John P. Yap of Malay gave thanks to everyone for joining and encouraged them to continue their support in this laudable project to help protect and preserve the environment of Boracay.

The meeting was also attended by head of offices or representatives of the Philippine Coast Guard-Caticlan/Boracay, Department of Health-Aklan, Department of Tourism-Boracay, Local Government Unit of Malay, Caticlan Jetty Port and Passenger Terminal Services and the personnel of MARINA Central and Regional Offices headed by Dir Malaluan and Dir Mary Ann Armi Arcilla of MARINA Regional Office 6.

ICC volunteers received certificates of participation from Ocean Conservancy, the international organizer, and the Philippine Coast Guard-Auxiliary (PCGA), as the national coordinator.

LGU-Malay through its Municipal Environment Management Services, Boracay Foundation Incorporated, Seven Seas Hotel and Residences, and PCGA-Boracay are the local organizers of this program.

PHL ready for rabies-free 2020 challenge JUN ARIOLO AGUIRRE

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oracay Island- The Philippines is committed to the challenge to make the country free of rabies by the year 2020 according to the Department of Health (DoH).

In a Visayas-wide Rabies-free Dissemination Forum held at Casa Pilar, Boracay on September 21, DoH Undersecretary Vicente Belizario Jr. said that they are collaborating with the local governments, Department of Agriculture and Department of Interior and Local Government on this vision of a rabies-free Philippines.

“Rabies-free status is possible and really can happen because of the existence of rabies-free countries like Western Europe, Canada, USA, Japan, Australia and Pacific Island Region, but this task is very crucial and very challenging,” he said.

Among those cities who expressed commitment to this challenge were Iloilo, Southern Leyte, Cebu and Bacolod, and the provinces of Antique, Guimaras, Aklan, and Biliran, among others.

“A similar forum should be held in Mindanao and Luzon,” said Belizario, adding that the theme of the campaign is, ‘The Fight is not Over.”

After 2020, there will be another three years to be observed to ensure that there is no more rabies cases recorded in the country. A validation of this claim will be made by the year 2022.

The plan to make the Philippines a rabies-free country by 2020 is a commitment made by the government together with the other ASEAN member-countries. It was gathered that the country is currently ahead among its ASEAN counterparts considering that it has already passed an anti-rabies act.

The DoH is also working closely with the World Health Organization, the Melinda Gates Foundation and some private animal bite clinics for this endeavor.

“The need to identify more partners, bigger than the partnership the DoH has today, must be done. Everyone must inspire and persuade others in everyone’s respective locality to join in this vision,” Belizario appealed.

Belizario commended the Visayas islands for the collaborative efforts and good practices in the control and elimination of rabies for four to five years now, and the initiatives in attacking the source through massive dog vaccinations, suggesting to the health department to pick up the good practices and put into manual of operations to guide other LGUs over the Philippines, accordingly. *The Departments of Agriculture and Health declared the island of Boracay and Guimaras rabies- free on World Rabies Day, September 28.

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Aklan beauty queen inspires Boracay kids to care for environment KAREN BERMEJO

PHOTO BY JACK JARILLA

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eigning Miss Earth Philippines-Ecotourism Jona Sweett believes that environment protection starts with education.

The 20-year old beauty queen from Kalibo shared this advocacy with the kids of Balabag Day Care Center during the launch of the Environmental Education Drive of the Boracay Foundation Incorporated (BFI) last August 15, 2015. The activity is part of the Information and Education Campaign (IEC) which is one of the core programs of the Boracay Beach Management Program (BBMP) spearheaded by the BFI. During the activity, Sweett taught the children the importance of environment protection through a reading session. She read the story “Basura Monster” written by Christine Bersola-Babao, about siblings Buboy and Anna who learned the importance of proper waste disposal.

“It is very important to educate the kids because they will carry these lessons as they grow,” Sweett shared. The Aklanon lady said building awareness, especially among the younger generation, is important in calling for action.

Sweett, whose father is an Australian, always wanted to be a beauty queen, not for fame or the glam lifestyle but to serve as a role model for her fellow youth.

“As a beauty queen, people look up to you. But more than that, it’s beauty for a cause,” she said. Sweett, a Hotel and Restaurant Management student of Garcia College of Technology, is also the reigning Miss Paraw Regatta of Iloilo City.

With her title, Sweett wanted to reach more people, especially the Aklanons. As one of the elemental queens of the Miss Earth – Philippines 2015, Sweett grabbed the opportunity to bring the reigning queens in Aklan for a benefit birthday activity last August 29.

The “I Love My Planet School Tour” of the Miss Earth Philippines Foundation was the event’s main beneficiary. Part of the proceeds was also used to buy school supplies to be donated to selected students living in the far-flung areas of Aklan.

Meanwhile, BFI President Dionisio Salme said the IEC will provide an opportunity for the youth community of Boracay to understand why there is a need to protect the island’s fragile environment. The BFI likewise turned-over educational materials to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office of Malay. The educational materials are proceeds from foundation’s “Christmas Party for a Cause” last year.

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IN THE NEWS

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NOVEMBER 2015

Dentists Dr. Pol Alzona PDA Vice President Dr. Maria Maresa Dawana Past President., Binan Laguna Chapter Dr. Emy Almendral Past President, Binan - Laguna Chapter PAFJO Dr. Lally Ortega Cobcobo Past Pres, PAFJO, Past President PPTC (Pasig, Pateros, Taguig Chapter,PDA)

Rotary Boracay holds two-day dental and medical mission TEXT AND PHOTOS BY LHEN BRUTTON AND PRIME DIZON

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he Rotary Club of Boracay together with St Angelique’s Dental Clinic, Philippine Dental Association, and The Boracay Wallstreet - Boracay Sun held a two-day Dental and Medical Mission at Brgy Camaligan (Batan, Aklan) and in San Jose (Carabao Island, Romblon) last October 12 and 13, respectively.

Touted as one of the biggest community missions the Club has staged, the event served around 2,000 cases for both Batana and Romblon with the help of 24 dentists and nine medical doctors.

Apart from free tooth extractions and medical consultations, the children were taught proper tooth brushing and given lice away shampoo sessions.

Initial doses of medicine, hygiene kits, and slippers were also given away.

The Club, led by Rotary President Tobias Moeckel and Project-In-Charge Rtns.

Lhen Brutton, Teresa Fajilan-Bech, and Aldo Yap, would like to thank all the individuals and entities that made this project a huge success.

Aklan Chapter Dr. Daisy Matira Past President Aklan Chapter Dr. Vivid Encarnacion Preglo Dr. Alma Refendor-Suello Dr. Edeleine “Lhen” Brutton Dr. Alvin Laxamana Past President San Juan Chapter Dr. Liza Dazo Past President Hospital Dentistry Dr. Mel Dazo Dr. Elgene Almoro Dr. Vicky Veronica Amar Dr. Margaret Itaralde (Puerto Princesa City Health Dentist) Dr. Eugene Partoza Dr. Aziel Partoza Dr. Joyce Pasccual Dr. Fe Pascual Medical Doctors Dr. Howell Javonillo Dr. Luz Margaret A. Escueta Dr. Andre Joseph M. Pareja Dr. Alex Matic Dr. Rehana V. Pallingayan Dr. Amy Penaflorida Dr. Krichelle Camacho Dr. Luis Edward Sandoval Dr. Marisse Asong Laguna Chapter Dr. Roy Afurong President Laguna Chapter Dr. Maria Resa Dawana Past Pres., Binan Laguna Chapter Dr. Emy Almendral Past President, Binan Laguna Chapter Dr. Gina Galangco Past President Sta. Rosa, Laguna Dr. Lynley Guevarra Dr. Grace Ann Salandanan Dr. Jethro Matusalem Dr. Edeleine P. Brutton Nurses Diana Jean Vicente, Marie Charmaine Anacleto, Diego de la Cruz, Diane Oragon, Kathykat Abergos, and Maria Grace Amante Sponsors Boracay Sun, Villa Sunset Boracay, Karuna Boracay Residences, Cohiba Villas, Red Coconut Hotel, Lugar Bonito Hotel, Willy’s Beach Club, RAMS Club Ten Boracay, Tawhay Boracay Condotel, Boracay Mountain Casitas, Panorama Sunrise, Bamboo Resort, Bale Mi Boracay, Farmacia ni Doc, Island Clinic and Diagnostic, Alert Medical Clinic and Sea Wind Resort Boracay Personal Care Sponsors Colgate Oral Care Products, Happee Toothpaste, Shield Bath Soap, and Unique Toothpaste

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Tuburan Commune, Tablas THINKERBELL

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hen I arrived at the Tuburan Commune for the first time, it was already dark at night. From Odiongan Port, we took a jeepney towards Tuburan, a small village near the town of Santa Maria, Tablas. The jeepney’s headlights were sweeping through a jungle, the scents of plants and soil were filling the air. It was just like going to my grandmother’s house in Finland – the smell of fresh air excites our travel-weary senses.

We walked down a narrow path from the main road to the commune. We climbed unto a bamboo hut that would serve as our vacation home for the next few days.

A friend of mine told us that the commune is just a simple, small coconut farm with basic facilities but the place was much more: an outdoor kitchen, an open-air living room with a big table and bamboo furniture, bookshelves made from broken ladders full of literatures all over the world, paintings on the wall of a beautiful house that was built on the ruins of an old concrete building, and a big bamboo house for volunteers and travelers.

Nature was even more amazing. On our first morning, I was greeted by water buffalos, mooing cows and goats grazing, two cats climbing on my lap and two dogs wiggling their tails. A pristine beach was only 50 meters away. We were surrounded with a magical forest, trees and flowers of all kinds, and a small pond where locals grow their fish, and with dragonflies flying above it. Deeper into the jungle was a spring where local people bathed, washed their clothes and filled their tanks with fresh water. I learned that word ‘tuburan’ means flowing water and that’s why the place is very special also for the local

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community: the spring provides fresh, clean water for the whole village. The owner of the commune, an artist from Negros, built the pipes for water to be easily distributed for everyone.

Tuburan Commune welcomes artists and all kinds of people interested in a natural, ecologically sustainable living; everyone who respects nature, the local community, and willing to share their time and talent a little. For example, carpenters build furniture for the commune, engineers help fix electricity, artists decorate the place and conduct workshops for the kids, farmers advice the locals on agricultural improvement.

I belong to the World Comics Society in Finland, so we organized a workshop for kids and also ended up organizing a half-day course for high school students in Santa Maria, in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development. I enjoyed meeting municipality workers Faith, Ann and Rowell, and we became good friends during that time. I also met Tita Tess, wife of Santa Maria’s former mayor, whom we shared dinners and party nights with in her shop in town, and when travelers from Tuburan Commune needed advice on how to get around the Philippines, she always knew the best route. We even had a tattoo workshop and nowadays some of our friends in Tablas have new tattoos that they carry proudly!

Tuburan Commune is a place where people can enjoy simple and peaceful way of life away from the bustling lifestyle of city living. We cook together, gather water from the spring, do some gardening and keep the farm and beach clean from trash.

In this community that thrives on cooperation, there are no strict rules except for the necessity to respect nature and fellow community folks. The place would not work without help from neighbors: a sweet girl next door, LanLan, helped us make fire in the kitchen and cook, and makes a day even sunnier with her smile. Up on the hill lives Ate Tuding, who does healing massage, manicure and pedicure and makes the place feel a bit more luxurious. Her husband Jose often brings tuba or coconut wine, for parties in the evening.

Spending some time alone or with a joyous group of volunteers in a quiet fisherman village, swimming in clean ocean, playing with the local kids, cooking fresh food on an open fire and falling asleep under a starlit sky listening to crickets, frogs and birds singing is an amazing experience.

The most beautiful part is the Tuburan Commune ideology: nothing is forced. Just be happy and enjoy life. Express yourself but remember to respect the nature and the people around you and share your talent, whatever it may be.

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Take Me To The Beach One More Day HOLLY GOLIGHTLY

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t’s every backpacker’s dream to hear tales of a pristine, faraway paradise untouched by society and accessible only to a select few. Maybe you’ll overhear the ramblings of a drink-and-drug-addled hippie spilling the beans over a roaring bonfire at a full moon party, about pure shores, wild nights under the star-peppered sky and a community of like-minded people living with and amongst nature.

Or perhaps hear Chinese whispers on the breeze of the banana pancake trail, of a place so beautiful it is the people who are lucky enough to live their life purpose to preserve its virgin sands. And rumours making their way around hostels, hearsay floating from bus to bus – yet none of the storytellers know how to reach it, or if it even exists at all. Not even a miserable, teastained map shoved under your beach hut door a la Richard from Alex Garland’s epic novel, ‘The Beach’.

Otres 1, Southern Cambodia, April 2013 Relaxing after a few beers the previous night, my backpacking buddy Sam said “Hey, do you remember that guy saying he had just come back from some secret beach on one of the islands?” I dragged my thoughts back to the barbeque and remembered a dreadlocked guy waxing lyrical and wildly gesticulating over a rather fantastic yet unbelievable story of bailing on some island-hopping trip, hacking through the jungle and finally finding this incredible hippie backpacker community living in huts on a vast, empty beach.

‘One More Day!’ he kept yelling while brandishing his beer, until he passed out face down in the sand.

We made our way to the hut that housed the bar and numerous beanbags where backpackers and locals were playing cards, drinking beer and snoozing in a long row of hammocks. Still in shock, I said to the barman, “Errr... One night, please?”

“Beach or bungalow? The beach is free,” he smiled.

“And one night?!” he asked incredulously, pointing to a piece of driftwood above his head that read ‘One More Day’, “No one ever stays just one night.”

“Sure,” I replied, “but he was off his face, so it’s probably all tall stories.” Then out of the blue, a local man wandered by, selling island-hopping trips. Sam and I looked at each other and yelled, “Wait!”

Half an hour later, backpacks packed, we were sitting on the boat when we heard a commotion and, turning round, saw the dreadlocked guy launch himself onto our vessel, barely making it in without knocking out what was left of his front teeth. He spotted us with our backpacks and winked, unsteadily making his way over. “Dudes!” he said in a loud stage whisper, “At the second island, when I run, run!”

So run we did, no questions asked. The foliage and coolness of the jungle closed in around us as we scuttled down a faint path. The voices and laughter of the daytrippers faded, and the sounds of birds and monkeys welcomed us into the green. Stopping for breath and water, I panted, “So it’s true? There’s a beach?”

“You’ll see,” replied our leader, flashing another drunken wink.

Gathering ourselves and striding forth, the dense trees soon thinned and the azure sky seeped through the canopy. The vista expanded and morphed from blacks and greens to every blue imaginable - the sky, the sea, and the crowning glory and every backpacker’s dream: an enormous, empty beach. We stopped. We stared.

We looked at each other. We screamed with joy and jumped up and down, letting out yelps and whoops of pure ecstasy and disbelief.

And he was right. One night turned to two. Two to four, then I lost count. I had no need to know the day, the date or the time. There was limited electricity and even fewer plugs available, so I stopped emailing, Facebook-ing and even stopped charging my camera as I melted into real island living. It was heaven.

Days were spent lazying in hammocks, reading, topping up tans, beachcombing for treasures or cleaning up post-storm. We collected bonfire wood and on rainy days there were ‘DDDs’ or ‘Double Drunk Days’, where you were greeted with a B52 shot for breakfast.

Games were invented, friends were made and people left on the weekly boat from our beach. Everyone would gather ‘round waving, shouting “One More Day!” and quite often, as with my and Sam’s dreadlocked leader, they would return a couple of days later, not being quite ready for the real world. I believe I spent just under three weeks in this little community on this stunning island, before heading back to continue my travels.

Places like this really do exist and if you’re lucky enough to stumble across them, it can be life-changing.

It was the most incredible experience of my travels to date and I really wish I’d had just ‘One More Day’.

A few small huts and one larger were scattered along the sand, with a ragged volleyball net and a gnarled tree stump covered with flip-flops being the only other things adorning the pristine stretch.

Thoughts to guide us by KLAUS DORING

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hristmas evokes memories and sentiments that travel with us -- treasured gifts of our hearts. It is the time for reflection of the year past, of things we’ve done to make a difference in the lives of others.

It is indeed a time for thanksgiving for the blessings received, and for the trials and pains that helped shape, strengthen, and mold us to become better persons.

“Hay nako!” - the typical Philippine expression, I adopted many times since living in the Philippines for good. What on earth am I here for?

The more I look around, the more people I’m able to observe: stranded people, still having the optimistic smile on their faces. People who are losing more and more of their bearings and are getting muddled in their lives.

If political leaders confuse us more instead of leading us on the right way, we cry out for a satisfying answer through the institution church.

Modesty will never get them what they actually deserve. Charity and brotherly or sisterly love, as the bible teaches us, are becoming foreign terms. Moral and human values are badly needed to drive and out energy and vigor in our daily lives as we stroll into painful indifference and peppered egoism.

Our daily ill feelings regarding all parts of our lives can’t be or can’t remain as a permanent state of affairs. Incompetent and incapable leaders, who are still being able to continue in their own monstrous, unhindered and impertinent style are every country’s poison and reason for decline.

During the last weeks, I received innumerable religious and philosophical literature and invitation from several institutions. I must confess that I have been confused many times. I am sorry and I really wish to apologize, if I reject most “of this stuff” and if I decide NOT to answer such emails or text messages. Sure, it is Christmas time, but... .

Christmas is just around the corner. The most awaited season is here. As an expatriate, I really love this season in the Philippines.

May the love and humility the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ signified remain etched in our hearts. Let not the frenetic gift-giving and seemingly endless merriment becloud the pristine message that Christmas imparts.

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7107 ISLANDS

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Follow that Graffiti

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NOVEMBER 2015

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BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY TAGUIG, PHILIPPINES

MELISSA RILI

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he Spaceman has landed and it landed at the Bonifacio Global City (BGC).

For some who have passed by the Icon Plaza at 7th Ave. corner Federacion Drive, you would have of course noticed this massive, horizontally-drawn mural called “Between the Lines” by Los Angeles-based American duo, Cyrcle.

The Spaceman is just one of the 10 or more big and small graffiti in different spots in BGC and was showcased in the 2015 Art BGC ONE Festival last May which featured contemporary street artists here and abroad.

The first time I saw the Spaceman, I was in a jeepney ride to Edsa-Ayala.

Exaggerated as it is, my head almost took a 360-degree turn. I was smitten. I had to see it again as well as the other public arts.

In my search, I discovered that at the

heart of BGC where the Bonifacio High Street is located, you can find around five graffiti and another five in the nearby streets. A good and inexpensive way of exploring this part of the city is by walking, jogging, or running.

(And along the way, allow yourselves to fall head-over-heels in love with the myriad of eats and shopping stores as you go along this suggested path.)

Take this Route Bibliophiles will be happy to know that I put Fully Booked as a starting point.

Fully Booked is located at the 11th Avenue corner Lane O. Inside Fully Booked alone, there stands the grand book sculpture by Mike Stilkey but outside of this book-haven, is a life-size mural of a boy and a tiger painted by LA-based Nate Frizzell.

A. (starting point, mural 1: Nate Frizzell’s “boy and a tiger”)

EATS AND SHOPS AT BONIFACIO HIGH STREET: A 1.

2.

3.

Fully Booked Old Navy Shabu Shabu

B and C 1.

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf 2.

IHOP 3.

California Pizza Kitchen 4.

The Spa 5.

CAV 6.

Ikkoryu Fukuoka Ramen

D and E 1.

Clawdaddy’s 2.

Murray’s New Orlean’s 3.

Texas Roadhouse 4.

Hobbes and Lande’s 5.

Healthy Options 6.

Friday’s 7.

R.O.X. 8.

Starbuck’s 9.

Figaro F. (BGC Amphitheatre) 1.

Banana Republic 2.

Mango 3.

Slice 4.

Mango Tree

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 09 Walk around Bonifacio High Street towards 9th and 7th Avenue to 28th Street, Lane O and you will find Filipino graffiti artist Egg Fiasco’s mural rocking that rebel deer’s head. Check out another Filipino artist Anjo Borlada and his painting near Timezone and try to interpret the meaning of his artwork of a face enfolded in red trappings.

B. (mural 2- Egg Fiasco’s “the goat’s head”) C. (mural 3-Anjo Borlada’s “face enfolded in red trappings”) Also near Timezone is another cute mural from Nate, the boy and the birds. Go to R.O.X at the corner of 7th Avenue and Lane O, and you will see another painting from him, this time, the boy and the bear.

D. (mural 4- boy and the birds) E. (mural 5- boy and the bear) Nate Frizzell’s style is realistic and he is known for his paintings of young people with wild creatures. The two Filipino pride Egg Fiasco and Anjo are both known in the local art scene today, with Egg on his “retro-futuristic images and ambiguous characters” and Anjo, as a self-taught artist who is known for his Japanese-Western paintings.

Moving further from the 7th Avenue to the 5th, the C1 Building near Banana Republic is where the next mural is located painted by freelance Portuguese illustrator, AkaCorleone.

F. (mural 6-by AkaCorleone) At this point, you can either heed the call from different gastropubs just around the corner. Draft is one example and you can enjoy not just the beer but the relaxing mood. I surely would want to try that Truffle Mushroom Risotto the next time I go there. Since you are moving near the Fort Strip onto your next mural, take a quick detour and explore a lineup of other food havens such as Seoul Express, Pasto, or Burger Avenue.

From the Fort Strip to the Spaceman by Crycle is where your next destination is at Icon Plaza, 7th Ave. corner Federacion Drive. This is one of the large scales covering around three floors almost similar with the next mural from Brooklyn-based American Duo Faile at One Global Place, 5th Avenue corner 26th Street.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 G. (mural 7-Icon Plaza -astronaut) at 7th Ave. corner Federacion Drive H. (mural 8-One Global Place, lady reading) “Between the Lines” or the Spaceman is Cyrcle’s way of looking at Science and religion and everything in between and that’s what a spaceman best represents.

Meanwhile, Faile uses iconography in art portraying a somewhat 1960s-inspired mural of a lady reading.

Take a long walk to Bonifacio Techonology Center at the 32nd Street where you can see Kristin Farr’s artwork using colors from the Philippine flag in her geometric patterns, a representation of raw appeal and precision.

I. (mural 9-Bonifacio Technology Center, geometric pattern) 32nd Street En route, fuel your gastronomic propensities at Burgos Circle. Café Juanita gives that Spanish-Filipino old house vibe inside with nostalgic Filipino dishes such as their cheesy beef kaldereta, kare-kare and shrimp sinigang. And since ramen is taking everyone by storm (especially in this cold and, sometimes, stormy weather), one can never go wrong with Wrong Ramen. This is definitely my top choice among the ramen houses in the city. Then there’s my favorite neighborhood Italian place, Tuscano, if only for their mouth-watering Tuscan pizza (a delectable thin-crust wonder topped with the fresh selection of vegetables and tomatoes drizzled with spicy olive oil and mozzarella bits).

(Burgos Ciricle is also home for that well-photographed sculpture by artist Reynato Paz Contreras, “The Trees”, depicting a canopy of three interlocking trees which stands as testament to Mother Earth and her strong unifying nature.)

And last and my favorite mural is from LA-based Drew Merritt’s mural, at the Globe Tower beside Niner Ichi Nana, 7th Avenue, 32nd Street. Merritt’s mural has an enigmatic appeal to the senses, drawing a woman, vulnerable but stronger within.

J. (mural 10 - Drew Meritt’s “Woman”) The Globe Tower Before that, make a mental note of visiting the Mind Museum, a modern structure at JY Campus Park along 3rd Avenue. It is the first-ever world-class science museum in the country with five main galleries and over 250 interactive exhibits.

Now, who would not love a route like this?

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Island hopping at Cresta de Gallo and Sibuyan in Romblon REYNALDO PEREZ-RAMOS

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HE PHILIPPINES IS being recognized by various travel sites in the worldwide web to be growing as a top tourist spot. In 2013, the country was listed among the popular destinations in the Conde Nast Traveler Choice. In particular, Boracay Island was voted as one of the best beaches in Asia in 2013. And even before that, the island consistently made it into the top three in the awards for the best beaches in the world. In 2014, another island, Palawan, was included in the list of the 30 top islands in the world: Readers’ Choice Awards in the Conde Nast Traveler online survey. This is an added recognition after Palawan was chosen as the home to one of the new seven natural wonders of the world – the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River.

But Boracay and Palawan, despite their popularity, are not the only islands in the country with beautiful white sand beaches and crystal water. In fact, there are other more stunning and unexploited places that both local and foreign tourists have yet to explore and enjoy. Cresta de Gallo (aka Isla) is on top of the list – located at the heart of the Philippines!

Geographically, Isla is virtually invisible in the map and it is situated at the southern tip of Sibuyan Island, in the Province of Romblon. Romblon is known for its high-quality marble products and its majestic Mt. Guiting-Guiting Natural Park. But Sibuyan Island is also the historical site of WW2’s Battle of Sibuyan Sea where majority of the Americans’ and Japanese’s battleships were deployed, including the world famous Musashi, the biggest Japanese battleship which sunk in the moonlight on October 24, 1944. Last March, an expedition was organized

by Paul G. Allen, co-founder of Microsoft. Together with his research team, he broadcasted a live-stream tour of the wreckage of Musashi in Sibuyan Sea. As a rare jewel of nature, Isla is a place where you can really enjoy the blue crystal clear waters. The white sand massages your feet as you walk on the long stretch of sand bar with pulverized sea shells and corals. The islet, once a victim of man-made destruction that threatened its coral system and marine life with illegal dynamite fishing, is now fully recovered with an abundance of fish,

starfish, seaweeds, and sea cucumbers flourishing in the area. Because it is not as popular as Boracay (five hours away), its quiet beaches offer serenity and much better unbothered scenery under water. Even with no source of potable water and permanent beach structures (except for one resident house for the family guarding the island), it is a paradise that awaits every one!

If you are in the area and have some flexibility in your schedule, you can also add some nature-filled wonder into your itinerary by visiting other natural attractions of Sibuyan. Dubbed the “Galapagos of Asia”, you can find the cleanest river system in the country which also provides the power supply for the entire island. You can also climb Mt. Guiting-Guiting, considered as one of the densest forests in the Philippines. The mountain’s difficult features save it for only the experienced lot of climbers, but its highest peak is one of the most breath-taking sites one can reach.

How does one reach the islet from Metro Manila? Take a bus or hire a van from any major cities going to Batangas City Port. From the port, ride a ship (Montenegro or Navios shipping lines) going to Sibuyan Island (which takes a total of 12-13 hours with two stop-overs in Tablas Island and Romblon). The long travel is not really boring, as you enjoy the seascapes of Romblon and by chance will be able to witness playful dolphins swimming at the sides of the ship.

In addition, it can be reached by motor boats from the mainland of Sibuyan.

With an hour of sailing to Isla, you can also enjoy the panoramic view of the mystic saw-toothed landscape of Mt. Guiting-Guiting. Isla is also accessible with commercial motor boats leaving Boracay on a regular basis (between 4-5 hours travel time, depending on the weather) and via Tablas Island with Philippine Airlines’ three-times-a-week flight schedule or 2Go Travel’s’ weekly trips.

ULTIMATELY, YOU CAN always enjoy these beautiful islands at the heart of the Philippines where the sun, sand, and sea meet every day!

The author is now a fulltime faculty member of the Romblon State University. After more than 30 years of urban life, Engr. Ramos decided to go back to his home province Romblon and be able to share his knowledge, skills and expertise to his fellow Romblomanons. He is a travel photo hobbyist, a blogger (www.reymos.wordpress.com), collects beer mats and paints using coffee granules. He was the first President of 3Di (Third Eye) Photo Club established in October 2004.

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+ ALTITUDE

Note: This is the 22 year-old Epoy talking to his 26 year-old counterpart. This article was written circa 2011 when the newly graduated me did not know what to do in life. Four years later, I still am lost and confused.

Knowing Thyself JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS

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think one of the hardest things to know in this world of ours is our own character.

We may have the opportunity to meet hundreds, even thousands of people in our earthly duration. We may have the ability to distinguish the good people from the bad ones. We may also have the capacity to remember their faces— their flaws, more specifically.

World peace and Mitsubishi Pajero three-door, my arse.

I may have been a better man.

My sincerest intentions of impressing the people around me did me no good.

Anyway, an infinity had passed and another is yet to unfold and this time, I know what to do.

Yes, they were happy on what I have become, but it ended there.

We are only given only one lifetime and unless you want to be a saint, make the most out of it. Know what you want to do and make a living out of it.

On the other hand, I was really dissatisfied. The five years spent in college may not be worthy, I told myself.

Do want you want to do.

Anyway.

Drive a guitar.

I didn’t.

I should have taken the risks.

Play the car.

My time and my decisions have been so dedicated to my parents. Dedicated to the point that I have not been enrolled in a course which I really wanted.

The risk of not following other’s desires may have resulted to my genuine happiness.

Sing like Mariel Rodriguez.

Question is, with the thousandths of people whom you have met, did you have at least a single second to know who you are?

Heck, I never knew what I wanted.

What I did for the past infinity of my life was to impress the people around me— to follow their wants and not my desires, I thought, would result to world peace and more importantly, my very first car.

Let no one but yourself define who you are.

And in my 22 years of existence, my biggest regret is that I haven’t given myself a chance. A chance to discover the things I really want to do and the things that could have developed my personality in biblical proportions.

Do want you want to do for I assure you, no amount of money nor prestige could top genuine happiness.

Believe me, you don’t want to learn it the hard way.

I should’ve known myself. I should’ve given myself a chance.

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Masked for a Cause MICHAEL MADRIAGA

PHOTOS BY ALVA ALVAREZ, DR. LHEN BRUTTON & JACK JARILLA

D

ressed in beautiful gowns and suits, paired with glittery masks, Rotarians and guests gathered in a gala dinner fund-raising event, a Masquerade Ball hosted by the Rotary Club of Boracay on the 24th of October, at the Boracay Regency Convention Center

In his welcome remarks, RC Boracay President Tobias Moeckel stressed on the importance of the occasion. Proceeds from the Masquerade Ball will fund the different projects of the organization. The gala dinner event was also a great opportunity for RC Boracay to re-introduce themselves to the community by inspiring the members of the many charitable works the club has organized in the island.

The affair was fun and memorable as Pinky Amador, the night’s celebrity guest, serenaded everyone. Mr. & Ms. Star of the Night was awarded to the best-dressed male and female guest; each received a gift certificate from XTreme Fun Sports & Recreation. Everybody was also delighted with the raffle prizes given away by the event’s sponsors.

Since its reboot last July 2015, the Rotary Club of Boracay (RC Boracay) has been funding and sponsoring projects that do not only benefit the people of Boracay Island, but also its neighboring towns. The organization is very proactive in different civic welfare programs to meet its objective – Be a Gift to the World. Amon the Club’s recent projects were the milk feeding program and bag donation for school kids, and the two-day dental – medical missions in the town of Batan (Aklan), and San Jose (Carabao Island, Romblon).

SPONSORS: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Boracay Regency Resort Mandala Spa & Resort Villas The Vessel & Cocoon Nail Spa (Mandala Spa) Le Soleil de Boracay My Boracay Guide The Light House Subic Marina Resort Villa Sunset Boracay Pres. Toby Moeckel Equal Printing Solutions Canadian Manufacturing Steakhouse Boracay 7Stones Boracay Suites Discovery Shores Boracay Hon. Mayor John Yap and First Lady Abigail Southwest Tours Viaje Royale Tours White House Resort Sea Wind Resort Boracay Jack Jarilla Photography Boracay Sun Newspaper XTreme Fun Sports and Recreation

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The Unsung Life of The Hero Andres SAMANTHA GO

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e are all familiar with Andres Bonifacio. From our early memories in elementary school, we have already forged vivid images of Andres in his signature red pants, white camiso, bolo in hand, and fierce scowl on his face. His epic acts of selfless heroism are legendary and have merited him dozens – possibly hundreds – of well-deserved monuments and plaques around the Philippines.

We know all about his rise to become head of the Katipunan, his being elected as first president, and his untimely and cruel death at the hands of his comrades. But what about the man behind the history? What about his life as a son, a brother, a friend, and a husband?

Can we say that we really know Andres as he wanted to be known? Or do we simply see him as a one-dimensional hero of a bygone age when fighting and dying for your principles was considered the best way to die?

This month, let us try to take a look past the enigma, and see Andres as a man.

Despite most stories painting Andres to have come from a dirt-poor family who could barely eat three times day, the Bonifacio family was actually able to supplement the living needs of the entire brood. Granted, it entailed plenty of hard work and strict decision-making on the part of Santiago and Catalina (Andres’ parents) they were able to provide for their six children.

Unfortunately, largely due to poor healthcare and laborious work, Santiago and Catalina passed way relatively young only within a year of each other. This caused Andres to drop out of school early in order to take over the role of family breadwinner. Now, these events are no surprise to anybody who took up Hekasi or Sibika, but what is less known is that Andres was hardly illiterate. He was a voracious reader who could spend hours with his nose in a book. Rizal, our National Hero, is perhaps the most well-known bookworm, but Andres dubbed ‘The Great Plebeian’ is not far behind. Among his alleged must-reads were Hugo’s Les Miserables and The Bible. It wouldn’t be a stretch to say that the revolutions and uprisings against oppressive forces written in the said books’ passages inspired Andres.

When he started work, Andres wasn’t a laborer either. In fact, he was in charge of overseeing the inventory of a German-owned company. Due to his innate talent at crafting and creating, Andres and his brothers were able to put up their own little business, which eventually gave the family a stable income.

Before making nationalism-stirring speeches in front of his brave Katipuneros, Andres addressed enraptured audiences as he took the stage portraying famous characters from Filipino folklore. The giant Bernardo Carpio was a common role for the part-time actor.

In 1892 Andres infamously joined La Liga Filipina, the unfortunate rebel group which Rizal was also a part of before being shipped off to Mindanao. The rest of his stay in the Katipunan is well-documented already but what is less documented are the heart-wrenching songs that lonely and melancholic Katipuneros would sing around the campfire. Often these songs were gentle and romantic in nature, the words of which referred to love of country and family. One such popular song, was often said to be about Andres’ beautiful young wife, Gregoria de Jesus.

When away from the front lines of the rebellion, Andres loved a home cooked meal. His favourite? Nilitsong manok sa zaha -- a more traditional way of preparing Lechon Manok. This tasty poultry dish was made by wrapping the chicken in banana leaves before being grilled over charcoal. It was then served with a rich sauce made from chicken liver and lemongrass.

When the revolution was intensifying even more, it was no shock to see Andres become elected Supremo or Supreme Leader. Unfortunately, this led to his early

death when his rival and fellow Filipino Emilio Aguinaldo, supposedly signed his arrest warrant and eventually his execution order.

On the day of his arrest, under the guise of friendship, Aguinaldo’s forces stormed Andres’ camp. In the middle of the skirmish, Andres’ younger brother Ciriaco was gunned down. Andres and his brother Procopio were severely beaten with the former being shot and stabbed, as well. Some reports even say that his young wife Gregoria was raped—though the truth behind what cruelties Gregoria underwent remains in the dark.

After the unjust framing and arrest of the Bonifacio brothers they were imprisoned in a room not larger than a closet before being hauled up to a hilltop where their execution was to be handed out. Though official reports state that gunshots killed them, later eyewitness accounts and a modern-day exhumation of Andres’ remains show that he was killed by being hacked using bolos, possibly while still in his stretcher.

Sadly, it was only in the last few years that the impromptu jail cell of the Bonifacio brothers were given a national plaque giving it the weight and recognition it deserves.

Some people will argue and say that Andres Bonifacio was a madman, others will say he is the true National Hero. But this month, let us focus on the life he lived beyond what the schoolbooks say. In this way, we remember him not just as a great man who helped liberate a nation, but as a man who we can fondly relate to and appreciate.

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PEOPLE

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Where are they now?

ISLAND SOULS

Former Island Residents Reflect on Their Time in Boracay RICA VELASCO

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n Boracay Island, people come and go. Some stay for just three days, two nights, others a week. And then there’s some who stayed a bit longer, landed a job or put up a business here even. While many has made the island their residence for quite a long period now there are those who stayed but had to leave for some reason. What has happened to some of the former island residents, we wonder? And how do they feel about moving away from the paradise they once dwelt in? Let’s find out.

Diane stayed in Boracay for a year.

She was fresh out of college when she answered an online ad for a job opening on the island and a week later, she flew to Boracay with a one way ticket. Work was six days a week so she did not have much free time, but on her days off she was always on the beach playing frisbee, swimming, reading, and relaxing.

She eventually had to leave in order to look for better career opportunities and expand her horizon.

She prefers island life because it is no-frills, simple, and it allowed her to be outdoors all the time. She loved living a minimalistic lifestyle with no need for fancy clothes, shoes, or bags. When asked what she missed most about the island, she responded, “The simplicity of island life. The friendly people, the summery vibe all year round, and, being the beach junkie that I am, I absolutely loved living in a tropical island. I also particularly enjoyed the Habagat season on the island because it was quieter and with fewer tourists around, it gave the island a magical vibe.” She says that there really is no substitute for the outdoors, but she tries to balance her city life by going out of town whenever possible.

Richie lived in Boracay for nine years.

He moved to the island to work at his cousin’s resort and became quite popular among the locals for his sense of humor, as he was constantly joking around. Eventually, he moved on to manage some restaurants around the island. For the first few years, Richie was a constant fixture in the party scene, but he mellowed down and lived more of a healthy lifestyle on the latter years of his stay. Diving was always his passion and he was able to enjoy this pastime while on the island. Richie also happened to be very talented in the kitchen and often cooked for his friends.

He met his wife in Boracay and they got married in a cliffside resort. They moved to Taipei where Richie continued his career as restaurant manager, but have recently relocated back to the Philippines as his wife now teaches in one of the international schools in Manila.

What he misses most about the island are his friends and living a life in paradise.

He says, “All I can say is - it’s hard to adjust to living in the city again once you

have experienced living in Boracay. Life on the island was like living a dream!”

He tries to see more paradise islands in his spare time to balance his city life.

Lesley was a Boracay resident for two years, on and off. She first went on Boracay to take a vacation, away from the stress of her then corporate job.

While in the island she saw a job opening at Mandala Spa and applied for it. She was hired. Initially, she simply wanted to tick “living on a beach” off her bucket list, however in retrospect, she realized that she found her purpose when she lived in Boracay – teaching yoga, a practice she started to learn in 2004. Her everyday routine in the island consisted of waking up early, doing staff yoga, working her shift, then having lunch in Angol and tanning for a bit before going back to work. Sunset sessions were a must at Hey Jude Bar followed by a night out of dinner and dancing.

She stayed longer on the island because of the people and the island itself. She said, “The locals would say that the island had its way of making people stay and kicking people out. It just kept me coming back”. What she misses most about the island is the unobstructed view of the sunset. But she has to leave for an opportunity to work on some events and more lucrative projects in Manila.

Anthony is a British national who was going around Asia and after two months of continuous travelling, found Boracay. He just meant to stay at the island for three days to see the best beach in the Philippines, enjoy the party scene, and meet locals. The people that he met in those three days made him fall in love with the island so much so that he ended up staying for two years as a bartender of the legendary bar, Hey Jude. His days were spent heading off to the beach with friends in the morning, having lunch in the local restaurants (as the food is great), kite boarding in the afternoon with his friends in Bulabog Beach and finally, enjoying the sunset at the White Beach before working his night shift. While in the island, he also joined a dragon boat team and had the opportunity to go to Malaysia to compete.

Anthony said goodbye to Boracay living because he wanted to pursue his goal of becoming a bar manager. He was just in the island last August to let his friends from England experience the life he had lived.

It seems that all these former island residents have a lot in common, all of them waxing poetic about the island that was a dream, that living in this tropical paradise was so much better than spending all one’s time in the smoke-filled annals of the urban jungle, and that what they miss the most about the island is the people who live there. To this day, they still go back to the island as much as they can. Although they are no longer on the island, their hearts remain captured

by Boracay.

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he pilot reminded the crew to prepare for landing as I sighed in huge relief. My back was aching from the 7-hour flight we had to endure from Austin to Long Beach and on to our final destination, Anchorage. The plane ride wasn’t a breeze for this 26 weeks pregnant momma, but the thought of having the experience of a lifetime outstrips the exhausting travel.

Looking for Alaska: Part 1 Notes from the Last Frontier BLANCHE POSADAS-BASCO

It was nighttime when we entered Alaska’s airspace, with nothing much to see outside the window but bright lights coming from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.

With my ¾ American Adobo family, I waited to disembark.

Our faces, shining with excitement and glee, officially declared the beginning of an amazing 9-day summer trip to America’s 49th state.

VIEW A place of magnificent mountains, my heart throbbed in wonder and awe as we drove by the scenic landscapes of Alaska to the nearest ski resort. Located in Girdwood, the Alyeska Resort is the state’s premiere alpine ski destination. To reach the top of Mt. Alyeska, which is 2,300 ft. in elevation, we took the aerial tram ride while our eyes feasted on the amazing panoramic view of the mountains.

Since we were there during summertime, the mountains were not covered by snow.

Skiing, therefore, was off the list but the rest of the family still did a bit of hiking in one of the viewpoints of Mt. Alyeska.

Tip: Always carry a journal and a camera/camera phone with you to document any breath-taking view you encounter.

A snap from high above

View from the aerial tram taking your breath away

HIKE When in Alaska, you must hike. Hiking is the best way to lose weight, lessen stress or merely clear your head and step into nature. Because I was almost seven months pregnant, we chose to trudge the Thunder Bird Falls trail that skirts the edge of a canyon. As part of the Chugach State Park, it has an elevation gain of 100 ft. A short and easy one-mile hike to a boardwalk that ends in a viewing deck, Thunder Birds Falls is predominantly in a neophyte hiker’s notebook.

It was an easy breezy summer hike, walking under birch trees and along oak ferns.

Tip: Don’t forget to put on insect repellant to avoid painful or itchy attacks from our forest bug friends.

Entrance to the Thunder Bird Falls trail starts on a flat to a gradual elevation hike

GLACIER Before, only in postcards and other media entities did I get to see these icy marvels. Now, I am one of the lucky ones who have checked out not one but three of these awe-inspiring spectacles. These natural gems are within reach in Anchorage.

Aboard the MV Ptarmigan, a one-hour cruise brought us to the face of Portage Glacier. Seeing the picturesque ice blue stretch felt like I was transported into the Ice Age. It was glacier-mazing!

Our second glacial exploration continued to the roadside wonder Exit Glacier near Seward. Accessible by road, it is also a 15-20 minute walk through a forest trail and along a gravel river bar. The flat hike starts at the parking area to the glacier itself. The last site to visit was the Matanuska Glacier north of Anchorage. With no fear, this pregnant momma walked on ice in order to touch this impressive roadside glacier.

Tip: Wear proper hiking footwear designed for the icy terrain, and clothing that can easily be layered because weather conditions do change quickly.

Matanuska Glacier

Portage Glacier

WILDLIFE Endangered species elsewhere are still abundant in Alaska. In its untamed wilderness there are plenty of bears, moose, wolves and caribou roaming around. In the city, you may chance upon a moose and her calf crossing the road or wake up in the dead of night to a bear outside your house rummaging through your trash. But it is not a guarantee that you would be able to see these animals everyday, so off to the Wildlife Parks you go!

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center – A 200-acre park just 12 miles south of Girdwood, it houses orphaned and injured animals and provides them with quality care and expansive enclosures. Some bears are not released into the wild because they do not have the needed skills in order to survive on their own. Other animals, when fully recovered, go back to their natural habitat.

Seals resting on the rocks

Kenai Fjords National Park – We explored the marine wildlife of Alaska on a day cruise via the 4½-hour Resurrection Bay Tour with a magnificent view of the Bear Glacier. An otter was first in sight and as we sailed away, we caught glimpses of sea lions and seals hauled out on the rocks. A few meters away, a humpback whale surprised everyone by spraying water out of its blowhole. Though a bit difficult to spot, we were able to take a snap of this gentle giant. The tour includes lunch at Fox Island, buffet-style, with freshly grilled wild Alaskan salmon and a prime rib meal.

Tip: These parks are perfect for bringing the whole family. Each park has the right length of time to allow for other activities to be embraced in a one-day adventure.

Reindeers on a lunch break at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

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Staying Beautiful During Travel

TRAVEL TIPS

DENISE BENTULAN WWW.DENISEWILLGOTHERE.COM

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oing on a trips usually means getting sunburnt, sweaty, and overall looking awkward and ungraceful. But traveling light doesn’t necessarily mean losing your freshness. Here are some tips to keep yourself looking fresh wherever you are.

absorb quickly. Price range is around PHP 300 – 600 depending on where you buy it.

Travel Kits

Go for Multiples

What are travel kits and sets for if you don’t use them? They come in sizes that go with the TSA standards, so you can have them in your hand carry. You should have your essential toiletries (i.e. shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, lotion, intimate wash and facial wash) always! Best place to buy them: airports, of course.

Airports provide travel-sized essentials for reasonable prices. I have a cheap set from Dove, which I got from HKIA and I just refill the empty bottles whenever they run out. You may also buy a set

And don’t Vaseline lip is so cheap effective in

forget about your lips. therapy (PHP 75, Watsons) that you won’t believe how moisturizing it is.

Spray-on sunscreens are my best bet for the body. Stick to known brands such as Coppertone or Banana Boat.

You could also use another one of my favorites, Lucas’ Papaw Ointment. This Australian product treats burns, bites and chafes as well as moisturizes your lips.

Wipe Away Cutting down your luggage also means cutting down on the amount of makeup that you bring, so multiples such as lip and cheek tints are the best way to go.

They’re also very quick and easy to put on. Benefit’s Benetint (PHP 1,800++) and Tony Moly’s Tint are my suggestions, the latter being 90% cheaper at PHP 198 but bolder and longer lasting.

Bringing cotton pads and makeup remover with you might be too much so thank the Lord for makeup/dirt removing wipes!

Regular antibacterial wipes and feminine wipes are also especially handy for keeping your hygiene 100%.

Freshen Up

of travel-friendly bottles and fill them with your favorite products.

Most skincare companies also have their own travel-sized products. Important things to have are: facial wash/scrub, toner, and moisturizer. Eye creams and makeup removers are handy too.

Protect your Skin

Go for Gel

You can also try palettes. Keep them small and complete. theBalm makes relatively cheap-ish ones that you won’t cry over when they get lost or break during your trip.

If there’s one skincare product you shouldn’t leave the house without, it’s sunscreen. Being under the sun exposes you to UV rays which darken your skin (sounds okay if you want to tan but are also bad for you).

They can cause sunspots, wrinkles, and cancer among many other real threats.

Moisturize. Always.

For the face, Bioré‘s UV range is something I will raved on about forever because they’re non-greasy and

Be it the dry cold of winter or the dry heat of summer; always moisturize your facial skin! St. Ives (about PHP 200, drugstores) and Aveeno (PHP 800 – 1200, S&R) make my favorite moisturizers.

Trails, hikes and tours can make you really sweaty, sticky and grody in general so have a little bottle of facial mist in your daypack. Avene makes the freshest thermal spring water sprays (PHP 530 for the smallest bottle) but if you’re on a budget, Evian makes reasonably priced ones too (PHP 199 smallest) Blot it out Oil is something you won’t want to see

Regular polish chips easily especially when immersed in salt water, but unpolished nails may just make your nails appear dirtier (what without a coat of color, the grime under your nails are easily spotted and at times emphasized 100x). Go for gel if you expect physical activities or the ocean.

Never Skip Cleaning If there’s another thing you shouldn’t be skipping on however tired you are, it’s cleaning your skin. Oil based cleansers such as Shu Uemura‘s oil cleansers wash away oil based products such as sunscreen and makeup, and facial wash clean up whatever remains.

A good facial scrub such as St. Ives’ apricot scrub is gentle enough for everyday use and will keep your skin feeling and looking bright.

Don’t get caught with “lola” hands and feet.

Dry climates dry your hands, and it’s not a very nice feeling. L’occitane makes the best shea hand cream (about PHP 1550), but Etude House has these cute and sweet smelling hand creams for only PHP 198.

Smell Good Travalo (PHP 700-900) makes refillable atomizers for perfume bottles, which tops do not screw out. In essence, it’s a good investment, really.

However, it only carries up to 5ml of liquid.

on your face (and your photos.) These sheets are a must for people with oily or combination skin.

There you have it! Keep these travel must-haves in mind the next time you’re packing up for adventure and never have a bad-skin day getting in the way!

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LIFESTYLE

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NOVEMBER 2015

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Revisiting Kuala Lumpur MICHAEL MADRIAGA

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t was just four months ago when I first visited the beautiful city of Kuala Lumpur. The minute I set foot in Malaysia’s capital, it was love at first sight. The modern skyline just begged for a promise to return before I even left.

Visiting KL for the second time now still gives me the same thrill and excitement. This time around, I made sure to visit new places and try new things to make my visit a bit different from the first.

Jalan Ampang

Resorts World at Genting Highlands

The always in the “Must Do” list

Many locals and tourists know Jalan Ampang as the “food street” where budget travelers can have a taste of the vast array of different Asian cuisines. But of course, being in Malaysia, I focused on trying out their specialties. Among their famous dishes is the bak kut the, which is a bit similar to the Filipino nilaga but with a darker broth.

This is possibly one of the most visited areas outside the city proper. Just like the other Resorts World Theme Parks all over the world, RW Genting combines shopping malls, hotels, casinos and an amusement park into an all-in-one destination for the whole family. Their casino has a myriad of games and they have numerous designer shops and great restaurants to suit one’s interests. One could also sit at the atrium and watch the live performances from different world-class acts.

Of course, even if you’ve visited KL more than once, you must always, always visit its most iconic spots.

Street foods like fried chicken innards, chicken satay, and sugar cane juice may also be enjoyed without hurting your pocket. Also situated in the street are different Chinese and Indian restaurants, making the culinary experience like a cultural walk through different countries.

A walk at Petaling Street (Chinatown), Central Market and Little India must always be on the list as these places have the most affordable souvenir items and chocolates.

Lastly, you can’t miss a trip to the Batu Caves. Despite the tiring journey, I climbed its stairs to see the Hindu temples inside the cave. The limestone hill, with its gorgeous shrines and caves, is fascinating and the view from the cave’s entrance is just so rejuvenating that you will forget the many and laboring steps just to reach the top.

Genting Skyway Cable Car This is one of the most exciting activities that I did during my second visit. Riding a cable car wasn’t just a first for my KL adventure but in my entire life.

The 3.38-kilometer travel from the Gohtong Jaya to Resorts World Genting is what I would consider the best 15-minute ride of my life so far.

Halfway through the ride, you will no longer be able to see your starting point and will not yet have a view of your destination. At this point, you will find yourself, or your gondola rather, suspended on top of a lush green forest. The contours of the surrounding mountains form a real life canvass of fading greens.

And from here you can already feel the cool breeze of the Genting Highlands, reminiscent of Baguio’s.

Pay homage to the Petronas Towers, made of glass and steel, in KLCC and the mall located just below these twins, Suria. Also, don’t forget to watch the wondrous fountain show synced with lights and sound at the garden located just outside Suria.

If you’re into a fun look into the world’s curiosities then you will definitely enjoy visiting Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum inside RW Genting and see the different exhibits on the weirdest and most unique personalities and items from across the globe. The different displays and life-sized wax statues that showcase different cultures from the cannibals to the modern story of mankind will amaze you. There are also mind-boggling optical illusions that will surely trick your eyes and will make you wonder how did it happen?

Kuala Lumpur is definitely a place that I would want to revisit again and again. Up to now, it puts a smile on my face whenever I remember it. Luckily for us residing in Boracay, we now have a direct flight to and from KL from Kalibo! So now, visiting this marvelous city is just as easy as flying to Manila.

After my KL adventure, I went on a side trip to Singapore, which is just an hour flight from the City.

I will be sharing my experiences in SG in my next article so watch out for Boracay Sun’s December Issue as I take you to Singapore!

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BORACAY SUN

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Sweater Weather TRISH HERNANDEZ

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s the Philippines is a tropical country, there are only two types of weather- sunny and rainy. Because summer is way over, it has been for quite some time officially the rainy season and the start of the colder months. It is now time to stow away some summer essentials that you still wear everyday such as tank tops, mini shorts, and shades, and time to take out those snug sweaters that you have been keeping in your closet. With darker hues and thicker fabric, the colder season presents an opportunity to wear more layers and subdued prints.

For the more laid-back weather, here are a few outfit tips that you can take note of when going out and still feel put together.

1. Comfy Casual

LIFESTYLE Who said mom jeans are out of style? These days, it is making a huge come back, with varieties in skinny jeans and in boyfriend jeans. For guys, simple jeans would do. Wear it with a top you are comfortable in, may it be loose or tight, and some simple accessories.

Throw on your favorite going out sweater and you are good to go.

This outfit is very comfortable to wear, especially when you are heading out on a weekend to hang out with your friends or even when you just want to chill at the mall. You can either keep the jacket on for colder temperature or take it off for warmer weather.

It is a relaxed look, both visually and physically, that is perfect for glum days and the cloudy weather.

2. Cool for School The pressure and stress of school plus the rainy and humid weather make students want to wear the most comfortable clothes and outfits. The cliché thought is that comfy means sacrificing looking presentable, but not to worry because one can be very snug but still look well-dressed for school. A cozy sweater over a crisp button-down is a simple yet chic way of attending your classes. It would be a plus if you can wear a hat or a beanie to protect your head from slight drizzles, preventing colds and fevers that are notorious during this weather. Also, wearing high top sneakers or boots is advisable not just for outfit or fashion purposes, but because they will keep your feet dry and warm.

This outfit isn’t even necessarily just for those who go to school but also for “wash day” at work. Likewise, it is not too casual and is still presentable to wear in the office but still keeping that relaxed and comfy vibe.

The rainy season may be a glum and colder time of the year, but it also gives us an excuse to wear more layers of clothes (without having to think about sweating and not feeling fresh!). May it be rainy or sunny, we should always look our best when out because our style represents and reflects who we are.

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NOVEMBER 2015

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NOVEMBER 2015

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Specialty Coffee in Boracay’s Shores THE SUNNY SIDE CAFÉ

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pecialty coffee is the more popular coffee category in the country nowadays and is part of the worldwide trend. To be categorized as specialty, the coffee must have a rating of 80 and above on a 100-point scale by expert graders who are trained for such a task. This is opposed to “gourmet” or “premium” coffees that are more of marketing terms and do not necessarily undergo an objective rating. Hence, when you’re having specialty coffee, you are making sure you are drinking excellent blends as rated by experts. Given the high standards in defining specialty coffee, it is estimated that only five percent of the world’s green beans are specialty grade.

Many elements go into creating a batch of specialty coffee. It, of course, starts with the growing and harvesting of the beans. Many specialty coffees are grown in small estates or farms that are able to maintain the high quality of the beans that they grow and keep them from being mixed with inferior crops. These beans are then harvested, dried and roasted with techniques that maintain their integrity.

As such, when you taste specialty coffee, you are better able to detect nuances in the flavor notes and mouth-feel as opposed to other coffees that are simply bitter and over-roasted in the quest for supply and volume.

The Sunny Side Café hosted a coffee cupping session last September 22, being the first and only specialty coffee shop in Boracay. The session was led by David Ong and Trissy Perfecto of EDSA Specialty Beverages, the country’s leading roaster of specialty coffee. A cupping session is a great way for people to appreciate specialty coffee. During the session, a selection of specialty coffee beans were presented to

the guests and were evaluated by their smell, taste, and mouth-feel. The techniques are somewhat similar to wine tasting – with each stage, participants are able to appreciate the difference between different kinds of beans and the different levels of roasting.

Having specialty coffee does not mean stopping with just the beans. We, at The Sunny Side Cafe, take extra pains to make sure that our coffee is served in the best way possible. Our grinders and espresso machines are carefully calibrated to make sure every cup that we brew is consistently great. The beans are only ground upon order. And despite the challenge of getting supplies to Boracay, our beans are always freshly roasted and not stored for long periods of time. So if you’d like to experience specialty coffee for yourself, drop by The Sunny Side Café and we will be happy to brew you a perfect cup.

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BORACAY SUN

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INDULGE

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NOVEMBER 2015

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FOOD REVIEW

Experiencing Italy at Sensi MICHAEL MADRIAGA

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talian dishes like pasta and pizza are always on top of our list when we crave for something delicious and special. I have tried a lot of pizza parlors and pasta houses but there is this restaurant in Station 3 that makes all those other places seem mediocre. This great food find is Sensi the Italian Restaurant.

For starters, make sure to try the Tres de Bruschetta. This is a platter of bread topped with different ingredients, each providing a different taste of true Italian flavor that will get your appetite going. The toppings are chopped black olives, tomato and garlic, and Parma ham with fresh arugula. This appetizer is a very yummy healthy option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for nutrition.

Sensi is heaven on earth for pasta-lovers and pizza addicts. I highly recommend Frutti di Mare Pasta, which combines arguably the best seafood available, namely prawns, squid, muscles and fish. Cooked in fresh tomato and crisp white wine, it is truly a remarkable dish that complements the restaurant’s beach setting.

Another specialty is the Rustica Pizza, which combines our favorite toppings like mozzarella cheese, bacon, farmer’s ham and salami Milano. The flavors of these ingredients are intensified with the addition of onion, garlic and dried oregano.

Sensi also crafts their own hot sauce that really goes well with any dish, especially complimenting their pizza.

For those who want to have a scrumptious protein-filled lunch or dinner, Sensi’s Surf & Turf is also highly recommended. The dish is served with a perfectly grilled prawn and a well-seasoned grilled beef tenderloin, all made from the finest quality of ingredients. The steak is served with Jack Daniel’s barbecue sauce, adding a great little kick to its flavor. The baked potato with sour cream and veggies on the side makes it a complete meal enough to satisfy your hunger.

Lastly, for palate cleansing, I promise that you will love the Banana Flambe Sensi, which combines sweet banana, caramelized sugar and vanilla ice cream to create the ultimate dessert. As a plus, there is a little bit of a performance that comes with the dish as the chef will first light up (yes, there will be fire!) the sweetened bananas using brandy before placing them on top of the vanilla ice cream. Sound great? Well, it also tastes great so if you’re heading to Sensi now, you must have this dessert!

We were so full from eating everything up to the last piece that we needed to give our tummys time to recuperate.This was the perfect time to sit back and have a sip of their refreshing cocktails like Mojito, Pina Colada and Mango Daiquiri.

If you want something warm to relax your stomach, I also recommend their Hot Chocolate, which has the perfect blend of bitterness and sweetness.

Visit Sensi Resturant in Station 3 located at the lounge of Calypso Resort and Dive Center and experience the best that Italian dining can offer. For more info, visit their website (http://calypso-boracay.com/lounge) or call +63 288 3206 for reservations.

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IN ROOM

Calypso Beach and Dive Resort MICHAEL MADRIAGA

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alypso Beach and Dive Resort is primarily known as one of the top diving centers in Boracay, offering various courses for both beginners (including kids) and professionals.

Their dive shop offers various cool adventures for divers in different reef spots around Boracay, perfect for when you want a closer glimpse into the marine life around the island.

Not known to many, aside from its dive shop, Calypso also has a beautifully designed resort that provide the perfect balance of comfort and ambiance that cushion a memorable vacation. From the moment you arrive, you will be greeted with a very refreshing welcome drink and a friendly staff to accompany you to your room.

One of their Deluxe King Suites, the Lapu-lapu room, offers a magnificent view of both the ocean and the sunset. The suite is equipped with, yes, a king-sized bed and built with a balcony, a wide bathroom with hot and cold shower, a living area with cable television, and a mini bar with coffee set and cold beverages.

The design is gorgeous! The suite is adorned with ornaments that provide a mix of Balinese and Filipino island vibes.

The resort also has a great Italian restaurant, Sensi, which offers really delicious dishes. You can have your breakfast here and also choose from a range of different meals like American, Filipino, and of course, Italian. For the night owls and folks who like a good evening drink, there is also a bar in the resort so there is no need for you to venture out just to spend the night with your favorite booze.

Calypso’s beach beds are also perfect for lounging and relaxation. In the afternoon, the beach pillows beg you to just lay down on the sand while having a cocktail from the bar and watching the sunset. If you’re tired of hanging by the beach, Calypso also has a swimming pool for that complete tropical staycation.

Calypso Beach and Dive Resort is located at the beach front of Station 3. For more information, you may visit their website (http://calypso-boracay.com/) or you may call +63 36 288 3206 or 5169 for inquiries.

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