Boracay Sun | November 2016 Issue by Boracay Sun

NOVEMBER 2016 | VOL. VI NO. 10 | BORACAY’S MONTHLY NEWS ON RECYCLED PAPER

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IN THE NEWS EXPAT FILES CULTURE CENTERFOLD LIFESTYLE INDULGE ROTARY BORACAY HEALTH

BORACAY IS WORLD’S BEST ISLAND BLANCHE POSADAS-BASCO

HIRD’S A CHARM! Boracay ranked first in the list of the World’s Best Islands of 2016 by international magazine Conde Nast Traveler. This is the third time that the island was voted by readers of the magazine as the best in the world. This year, it has bested other popular island destinations from other countries such as Ibiza, St. Bart’s, Mykonos and Crete of Greece and Turks and Caicos.

More than 300,000 travelers took part in the magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards survey. For the best islands category, readers ranked the best islands in the world, outside the U.S., from the Caribbean to Southeast Asia. Apart from Boracay, two other islands, Palawan (#2) and Cebu (#5) also made it to the list. These islands, exuding with natural beauty and adventure, have been making the Philippine tourism flourish, attracting more local and foreign tourists. Zen Pallugma, a representative of the

IN THE NEWS

CULTURE

Department of Tourism, accepted the award during the ceremony that took place in New York. Despite the recent presidential declaration that the country is in the state of lawlessness, Boracay continues to break its tourism statistics, increasing its numbers every year. This year, the tourist arrivals in the island is anticipated to reach 1.7M. The island remains to be a popular tourism hotspot not only in our country but also across the world. Last

CENTERFOLD

September, the island became host to the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Legend of Sea that brought in around 2,700 Chinese tourists and crews. Two other cruise ships are expected to dock in the island, before the year ends, that are expected to bring in a total of 1,500 passengers and crews. With a promising future, and the iconic powdery white sand and crystal clear waters, Boracay is still and forever will be a majestic destination for the generations of travelers to come.

LIFESTYLE

INDULGE

Boracay paddlers victorious in Indonesia

Halloween in Boracay 2016

The 2 RC Boracay Masquerade Ball

EURO-ASI: From Boracay to Portugal

Cafe del Sol Holiday Suggestions

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Ah, Halloween is in the air. When we were doing this issue, that is. Most of us thoroughly enjoyed the spooky weekend that was made even better with October 31 declared a non-working holiday. We’ve had our schedules full of trick-or-treating, in costumes! We were beach-Cinderellas at the Rotary Club of Boracay’s Annual Masquerade Ball – we even won prizes, albeit, no charming princes in the raffle that night. But we managed to snag and meet beautiful creatures with generous spirits. In fact, reading the stories in this month’s issue got us inspired, made us think about Halloween in a new way – as a great excuse to give or share. During the Halloween, we prepare goodies and sweets to give out to the kids when they go trick-or-treating in the neighborhood, or in our offices. We think of costumes for parties and events designed for spooks and, in doing so, we share our funloving selves. This November issue is not even our Halloween issue, we tried to veer away knowing our distribution will be mid-month. But our stories hinted of Halloween, well okay, mostly talks of Halloween – the one of adventure, giving, and in all, magical.

COVER By Alva Alvarez

THE BORACAY SUN FAMILY

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Senior Editors BLANCHE BASCO & BETH JALEA MA. TERESA FAJILAN

Beauty is not about having a pretty face. It is about having a pretty mind, a pretty heart, and most importantly, a beautiful soul. ~ Drake

Art Director ALVA ALVAREZ Columnists JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS, KLAUS DORING

~ “The Secret”

Contributors JUN ARIOLO AGUIRRE, KAREN BERMEJO, LHEN BRUTTON, MICHAEL JEROME MADRIAGA, SP01 CHRISTOPHER DEL ROSARIO MENDOZA, DOUGLAS FABILANE, POPSIE KOOK MARIAN CASTRO-ORDILLO

Dont worry about what I am doing. Worry about why you are concerning yourself in what I am doing.

Publisher THE BORACAY WALLSTREET INC.

~ The letter of gratitude

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

Focus on the beauty of our world and on how magnificient it is. As more and more people appreciate the beauty and focus on the beauty, our planet will receive that energy and we will see that beauty manifesting everywhere.

WEAK people REVENGE. STRONG People FORGIVE. INTELLIGENT people IGNORE ~ Albert Einstein Dead people receive more flowers than the living ones because regret is stronger than gratitude. ~ Anne Frank

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Copyright © April 2014 Boracay Sun. All rights reserved. Printed in the Philippines. Except as permitted by law, no part of the Boracay Sun may be used, reproduced or distributed in any manner whatsoever without written permission of Boracay Sun. The publisher accepts no liability for the content correctness of any advertisement and reserves the right for editorial freedom of the press under the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines Article III (Bill of Rights) Section 4.

BORACAY SUN

IN THE NEWS

NOVEMBER 2016

Boracay paddlers victorious in Indonesia

AST KALIMANTAN, Indonesia – The Boracay Island-based joint team, Boracay Dragonforce and Boracay Dragonflies, victoriously represented the Philippines in the recent Mahakam International Dragonboat Festival 2016 at Tenggarong, Kutai Kartanegara, Indonesia.

Despite the sleeplessness and exhaustion from a 35-hour travel from Boracay to Tenggarong (Kalibo-Kuala Lumpur-Jakarta/Yogyakarta-Balikpapan-Tenggarong), the Islanders competed and won Gold in the 250m Mixed Standard Boat category and Bronze in the 250m Women’s Small Boat category – a great achievement for the team’s first international race participation. Often overlooked by the media, the joint team has earned the reputation in local races as a team to be reckoned with. With overall impressive awards within three years - 16 Gold Awards, 9 Silver Awards, and 5 Bronze awards to date -- the team’s competitive reputation was well-celebrated in Indonesia and they are now being recognized around Asia.

The Philippine flag was waved in East Kalimantan, Indonesia as members of the Dragon Force Team gets interviewed for a local TV. Photo by Philippine Boracay Dragon Force team

They almost didn’t make it to Indonesia Though everyone in the team works full-time in the hospitality or therapeutic industry, their measly salaries were nowhere near in being able to afford themselves plane tickets as sponsorship didn’t come easy. And the Club Crew of 34 from Boracay Island plane tickets didn’t come cheap. With a little bit of help from friends and families via GoFundMe and personal loans, they were able to raise some much needed funds. They sold T- shirts, singlets, cocktails, paddle chokers and even organized a Beach Fun Run to raise funds for this particular event. “It is the spirit, the team’s dedication and commitment to training, whilst working full-time jobs, which makes us determined to win our races, as well as giving us strong bonds and camaraderie.” The biggest challenge that the team faced during the race was the new terrain. The water condition of the river is very different compared to the salt water that the islanders train on in Boracay. The team had to adjust and come up with a different strategy to create a game plan that works with paddling against the strong river current, according to the Team Manager/Coach Thomas Müeller.

The Boracay DragonForce Team paddling against all odds and current on historical Mahakam River, Indonesia. Photo from Facebook

Record Breaking Still, the Islanders persevered, abided by the rules and promoted game fairness. They even bagged the fastest time in the three-year history of the Mahakam International Dragonboat Festival. It was a record-breaking 58:45 seconds finish during the Finals of the 250m Mixed Standard Boat category. SOURCES: Remy Aquino-Nation and Trudy Allen / (DragonForce/DragonFlies Team) The Dragon Force Team Dragon Boat team celebrates their victory. Photo from Facebook

BORACAY SUN

IN THE NEWS

RLO 6 conducts seminar on chain of custody and issues in the filling POLICE of drug related cases DESK

SP01 CHRISTOPHER DEL ROSARIO MENDOZA

NOVEMBER 2016

Boracay remains to be a stable tourism destination JUN ARIOLO AGUIRRE

PHOTO BY ISLA GRAPIKA

n support of the government campaign against illegal drugs, the Regional Legal Office 6 (RLO6) recently conducted the Seminar on Chain of Custody and Issues in the Filing of Drug Related Cases at the Crown Regency Resort Boracay and Convention Center. The seminar was spearheaded by the new RLO6 Acting Chief, PCINSP Ronald V. Floria.

PCINSP Dennis R Gabihan discussed the topic entitled, Seizure and Chain of Custody in Dangerous Drugs Cases, while Col Carlos Gadapan talked about Drug Info Gathering and Investigation. The seminar aims to guide the investigators on the proper procedure in handling evidences and in filing appropriate cases against apprehended personalities who are found to be in possession of illegal drugs. The seminar was attended by the personnel of the Boracay Tourist Assistance Center, Malay PNP, PNP Maritime Group, Aklan Public Safety Company and Task Group Boracay Philippine Army. Meanwhile, the Department of Interior and Local Government recently launched Project MASID “Mamamayang Ayaw sa Anomalya, Mamamayang Ayaw sa Iligal na Droga”, a community-based initiative to engage volunteers in the fight against criminality, corruption, and illegal drugs. The problem on illegal drugs is considered extremely serious and a growing problem in our society. Based on the data from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, there are 13,661 or 32.50% of the barangays in the country are drug affected. Data from the PNP showed that there are 685,813 drug users and pushers who personally surrendered from July 1 to Sept. 1, 2016.

oracay Island, Aklan - This resort island continues to be a strong tourism destination despite the recent presidential declaration that the country is in the state of lawlessness. Niven Maquirang, jetty port administrator, said that from January to September this year, Boracay registered a rousing 1,310,670 foreign and local tourism arrivals. The statistics is notably higher compared to that of 2015 where only 1,199,742 tourist arrivals were recorded on the same period. “If this increasing trend continues, we are anticipating that our tourism arrivals may reach 1.7 million this year,” said Maquirang. President Rodrigo Duterte has declared the country under the state of lawlessness, following the bombing at a night market in Davao City last September. Because of this declaration, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police are in maximum alert level. “We have implemented tight security measures in Boracay and the tourists understand. It is a welcome note that our tourism figures still continue to increase,” Maquirang explained. Meanwhile, he added that already the province has received notifications of cruise ship arrivals by end of the year and early next year. “For this year, we anticipate the arrival of the cruise ship vessels named Hanseatic on October 8 and Pacific Venue on

November 9. The Hanseatic vessel has 350 passengers with 200 crews while the Pacific Venue has 600 passengers with 350 crews,” said Maquirang. Last September 24, around 2,700 Chinese tourists and crews docked in Boracay via the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Legend of the Sea. “Several years ago, Boracay has been named by the Department of Tourism as a cruise ship destination in the AsiaPacific region,” said Maquirang. For 2017, Maquirang said that the Sharp Port Services serving as agent has already lined up cruise ship arrivals in this resort island. On Januay 28, a cruise ship with 2000 tourists and 700 crews will be arriving in this resort island from Manila. The MS Europa 2 is also scheduled to arrive with 500 tourists and 400 crews on February 15. And on February 28, 2017 both the Seven Seas Voyage and the Crystal Symphony cruise ships are expected to simultaneously arrived. The MS Europa is also expected to arrive on March 13 with 400 tourists and 300 crews. “These are all the beginning. The Aklan Provincial Government, with the help of the Duterte administration, is also working to make cruise ship passengers stay overnight in Boracay. We are hoping to construct a pontoon for these. If this would materialize, we could expect that other nearby provinces in Panay would benefit from the tourism spill,” Maquirang added.

BORACAY SUN

IN THE NEWS

NOVEMBER 2016

Boracay is now CPR-ready

LAMAVE are searching for the next

FILIPINO

WHALE SHARK RESEARCHER!

Full Details at: WWW.LAMAVE.ORG

We have 1 x MARINE SCHOLARSHIP available for a Filipino to join our Donsol Whale Shark Research Project. WHERE? Donsol, Sorsogon DURATION: Start January 2017 for at least 3 months. REQUIRED: 18 years +, speaks Tagalog, free dive to 5m & comfortable in the sea, interested in the ocean/conservation. LAMAVE will cover your food board and project expenses :) Read full details and apply at www.lamave.org/get-involved/volunteer

YOU

CONSERVATION?

ave you been looking for an opportunity to dive into marine conservation? And, most importantly, are you Filipino?

If you answered yes to all of the above - then we need you! LAMAVE are searching for the next Filipino whale shark researcher. We have one scholarship placement for our Donsol Whale Shark Research Project. The scholarship covers food, board and project expenses and is an opportunity to get field experience while also conserving the amazing marine life we have here in the Philippines. Applicants should be over 18 years old, fluent in Tagalog, passionate about the ocean and be able to free dive to at least 5 meters. Full details and how to apply can be found at: http://www.lamave.org/get-involved/ volunteer/donsol-whale-shark-project-2/ Please state that you are applying for the scholarship within your covering letter. We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to hear from you.

he Philippine Heart Association (PHA), in its objective to turn the Island of Boracay ready for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), conducted the Basic Life Support Training last October 22 at the La Carmela de Boracay Resort, for all tourism front-liners and stakeholders.

The CPR on Wheels and Wings-Boracay, along with the PHA (NCR and Aklan) team gave lectures and afterwards rendered the hands-only and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation training for cardiac arrest and drowning victims. Some 500 healthcare professionals and lay providers, safety and disaster team members and visiting tourists participated in this event. These participants are now certified lifesavers. The Philippine Heart Association (PHA) aims to make the Philippines a CPR-ready country, at par with Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore and the United States. And Boracay was identified to be the pilot site for this nationwide project. The training in the island was held in coordination with the MDRRMC Malay, the Aklan Medical Society, and the Department of Tourism Manila and Region VI. The Philippine Red Cross-Boracay was also present to give their full support. (Details from Dr. Vim Samonte of AMS Kalibo and Gynna Gagelonia - PHA Media Relations Officer. Photos by PHA/AMS)

BORACAY SUN

EXPAT FILES

The Adventures of Popsie Kook POPSIE KOOK

am writing this story as an expat to share how much I have been enjoying the Philippines..

I arrived in Manila on March 1, 2014 after retiring from a medical career in the USA. My best friend Steve of more than 40 years is married to a lovely Filipina and he told me to retire in Makati City because it was similar to New York City of which I am accustomed. My first impression was the warmth and help that was extended to me while I was trying to find my lost luggage. I asked the airport worker, “Are you always this friendly to passengers?”. He replied “Oh, yes sir, it is our culture.” “WOW!” I said to the kindly gentleman. This was the beginning of learning that most Filipino people are warm, friendly, and helpful. This simple lesson was just one of many reasons why I love the Philippines more and more with each passing day. As I made my way to my temporary residence, I observed the next wonderful fact. It is so easy to talk to a Filipino person. Why? Because they are curious and always have questions! “Where are you from?”, “Are you alone here?”, “Do you have family back in US?”, “Where are you going?” I love that because it opens up a fun dialogue and before you know it, I have a new friend! The next thing I absolutely love is learning new things about this amazing country. For example, it took me a while to understand the exchange rate from Philippine pesos to US dollar. Once I understood, I quickly realized that I could live comfortably here in the Philippines on my retirement pension.

All you can eat Sushi

Imagine yourself with a glas of wine on the beach during sunset with all you can eat Sushi!

NOVEMBER 2016

Getting around Metro Manila was an adventure and fun each day. I took jeepney and bus rides just for learning and with that I kept meeting more and more friendly people on board. Of course, I did not travel late at night and if I had to, would take a taxi. Yes, of course I got lost. Getting back home in Makati was part of the fun for me. As for meals, my comfort zone in the beginning was McDonald’s because in USA we have McDo everywhere. My McDo was right next to my condo 24/7 so after one week of breakfast, lunch, and dinner, I already know all the staff by name and they all knew my strict diet adjustments to the menu. Hahaha! I learned that I did not have to take my finished dishes, glasses, etc. to the trash area. “Just leave it sir,” they would say. Amazing to me. Respect for a senior was my next revelation. Filipino people of all walks of life and stature would say, “Thank you, sir!”, with utmost respect and courtesy. Every day I appreciate the courtesy and respect that I receive and do my best to reciprocate. Birthdays in the Philippines are very big events; many times lasting all night long. Every early morning when I jog in the nearby park, I would pass a Karaoke restaurant and bar and find that every single morning at 5:00 AM they would still be singing and celebrating from the previous night. Amazing! Christmas is much bigger in the Philippines. Christmas carols and music plus shopping starts here in September. Filipinos really love Christmas so much. Value in travel is wonderful here. I went to take a bus from Manila to Baguio City which is approximately 250 kilometers and it only costs USD12 with senior citizen discount. It allows me to see and enjoy all 7,107 Philippine islands which to me is a super amazing advantage of living in the Philippines. As I continue my adventures here in the Philippines, I will share with you all the fun and exciting things I

see and observe. One thing I can say for sure now - I have no intention of going back to live in the USA. The main reason, of course, is the warm friendly and English speaking people here.

Proud to announce that we won this years Luxury Hotel Awards again! Thank you everyone with helping to achieve this great success!

This month you can have it all at Villa Caemilla! Php 595,- +

Sitio Angol, Station 3, White beach, Boracay Island +63 (036) 288 3354, +63 917 526 9449, reservations@villacaemilla.com www.villacaemilla.com

BORACAY SUN

EXPAT FILES

Pride and Magnanimity KLAUS DORING

n times of and some around me inspired to

natural disasters and political changes, dwindling hopes of many people (expatriates AND Filipinos), I still feel put the cart before the horse.

Maybe at the end of this piece, I’ll tread the footsteps of other columnists and commentators. So be it! Pride comes before a fall - but never magnanimity. The dictionary defines magnanimity as the greatness of mind and generosity of heart especially in forgiveness. Filipinos often times are really a magnanimous people. Especially nowadays, Filipinos seem to have the quality of being high-souled, rising above pettiness or meanness and the generosity in overlooking injury or insult. The late Harry Emerson Fosdick, a famous Protestant teacher wrote: “No man ever saved anybody, or served any great or left any enduring impress, who was not willing to forget indignities, bear no grudges. The world’s saviours have all, in one way and another, loved their enemies and done them good!” Magnanimity, applied to relations between nations and/or people, transforms hostility into helpfulness. Consider the massive assistance the U.S. provided to its former enemies following world War II, enabling them to rebuild their blasted cities and shattered economies. No ‘West Berlin inhabitant’ (and count me in!) will forget the U.S. airlift during the East German-Russian blockade, when the so-called “raisin bomber planes” kept West-Berlin and its people alive.

My dear readers: What quality in human character do you consider the most admirable of all? How about tolerance towards another’s viewpoint without smugness? How about refusal to judge another’s actions or motives without first knowing what lies behind them? U.S. writer Clearance W. Hall said: “Magnanimity must be developed and habitual by practice, but it’s virtue that sweetens and glorify life.” Very well said. People with a noble heart and mind are fond of daydreams. Of course, fantasies don’t have to be a flight away from reality. In fact, psychologists are discovering more and more that they can play a creative role in self-development and a better mutual understanding. It’s also one of the best things for the well-being of a nation. And surely among expats and between Filipinos and expats. Feel free to email me at doringklaus@ gmail.com or visit my website www. germanexpatinthephilippines.blogspot.com or follow me in Facebook or Twitter.

NOVEMBER 2016

BORACAY SUN

CULTURE

Halloween in Boracay 2016 BETH JALEA

PHOTOS BY ISLA GRAPIKA

hile parties around the island happen until the wee hours of the morning, it is during the Halloween season when the White Beach comes alive with nocturnal and other-worldly creatures that make the island haunted, happily, for a few days.

Every year, during these spook-tacular days, visitors and residents would excitedly don their scariest, most creative and trendy costumes, and hop on the party train and make the rounds. For thrill-seekers, some of the island’s bars and restaurants prepare haunted-house-like experiences for their guests – some would serve bloody and spine-tingling menu enough to tempt any gore-loving foodies. Meanwhile, for families with kids, trick or treats are available throughout with establishments giving away sweet-treats to expectant kid-tricksters. Below are a few spots that offered tricksters some delightfully frightful treats on this long weekend Halloween: Boracay Newcoast’s “Movie Trick, Our Treat” – this mega-development of Megaworld’s Global-Estate Resorts, Inc. treated guests with the first outdoor cinema in the island. Some spine-tingling and hair-rasing horror flicks were shown at Oceanway viewdeck on October 29 and 30. Films such as ‘Train to Busan’, ‘The Conjuring’, ‘The Conjuring 2’, and ‘The Ring’, roused tricksters to a scream fest. After the film showing, guests could, of course, opt to be shuttled to Fairways and Bluewaters’ Café Laguna where they could treat themselves to a scrumptious dinner. They can also wander around, escorted by friendly resort staff, on this biggest tourism estate development that boasts of districts that offer titled lots, condominium clusters, soon-to-be-built shop houses and luxury hotels. Epic Boracay’s “EPIC Wonderland: A Magical Halloween Ball” – everyone sure had an epic time in this magical ball that featured one of Asia’s Top Female DJ, Arra Pascual with Marga on the mic, and EPIC resident DJs ADN, Freddy M and Acidburn. We loved the BIG REVEAL – those costumes are indeed magical, worthy of the win! We can’t wait for another fierce party next year. EXIT BAR – what we love about Exit is it’s always laid back; anybody can come as they are – in costume or without. This time though, the crowd amped it up a bit - it’s no wonder our party train ended up here. This is our queue, our exit. See y’all again, next Halloween!

NOVEMBER 2016

BORACAY SUN

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CULTURE

NOVEMBER 2016

Pinoy Horror Stories and Movies JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS

he Philippines is laden with stories of mysteries and horror. From supposedly paranormal-induced incidents to ancient mystical lores, we, at some point in our lives, were believers of monsters, the dead, and the unseen.

From tens, possibly hundreds of paranormal creatures, there arises only a handful that reached pop-culture - creatures who were not simply passed on as bedtime stories, but are told, in all of its glory, as feature films. Here are some “aswang” flicks that embedded some gnarly scenes in my head: 1. Feng Shui - Feng Shui is a 2004 Filipino supernatural horror movie starring Kris Aquino. The film centers on a cursed Bagua mirror where a person gets killed if they stare at the Bagua mirror, with their death relating at any way to their Chinese zodiac. 2. Sukob - Sukob (titled The Wedding Curse internationally) is a 2006 Filipino horror film starring Kris Aquino and Claudine Barretto. The film was a critical and commercial success. The film earned P186.41 Million domestically and PHP203 million worldwide. The film was considered by some as one of the scariest Filipino horror films ever made, alongside the 2004 hit Feng Shui, also directed by Roño and also starring Kris Aquino. It was lampooned in the parody film ‘Pasukob’, where the storyline is twisted in comedic flair. 3. Zuma - Zuma is a movie remake of one of the oldest and most popular comic books in the Philippines. It stars Zuma, a creature donning a snake over his shoulder which perfectly accentuates his monster-like features. 4. Patayin sa Sindak si Barbara - Patayin sa Sindak si Barbara (literally Kill Barbara in Shock) is a 1995 Filipino horror-drama. It is the remake of the 1974 horror film Patayin Mo Sa Sindak Si Barbara, directed by Chito S. Roño and released by Star Cinema. The film also celebrated the 20th-year anniversary offering in which the film was originally released. (Sources:Wikipedia.com) The Pinoy mind frame and paranormal beliefs are hard to part ways especially with the abovementioned films frightening if not traumatizing the generations of babied millennials and generation X’ers.

Today, computer generated imagery reigns supreme in movie houses, but nothing really compares to horror and suspense stories narrated orally and in in great detail by our forefathers and then translated into iconic Pinoy films.

BORACAY SUN

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NOVEMBER 2016

The 2nd Rotary Club of Boracay Masquerade Ball DOUGLAS FABILANE PHOTOS BY ISLAGRAPIKA & JACK JARILLA

he Rotary Club of Boracay has again pulled a successful event on October 27, with their 2nd Annual Masquerade Ball. The masquerade ball, which was organized in time with the Halloween celebrations in the island, was a triumphal celebration of the Club’s past accomplishments, ongoing projects, and future plans. It was also a grand gesture of gratitude to the individuals and organizations who have extended their services and resources in support of the Club’s projects, and at the same time, raise awareness within the Boracay and Malay communities on what Rotary means and how the Club is helping the communities especially those that are in need. Rotary is an international humanitarian organization with over 1.2 million strong and active members worldwide driven on the Six Areas of Focus which are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Peace and conflict prevention/resolution. Disease prevention and treatment. Water and sanitation. Maternal and child health. Basic education and literacy. Economic and community development.

The Rotary Club of Boracay, as a member of the Rotary International, is engaged in at least three of the above areas. Disease prevention and treatment and Maternal and Child Health The Club, in partnership with its sister-club, the Rotary Club of Jindo, Korea, is donating laboratory equipment for the blood collecting unit/blood station which will be managed by the Philippine Red Cross Boracay– Malay Chapter and the LGU-Malay. The laboratory equipment will be housed in the identified facility in Malay once fully constructed. This donation is made possible through the approved Rotary International Global Grant which the Club, under President Teresa Fajilan-Bech, applied for. The blood station is seen to boost Boracay and Malay’s capability in addressing the need for blood in times of calamity, birthing and transfusion especially in cases of Dengue. The Rotary Club of Boracay is also involved in the Daily Milk Feeding Program for the Day Care Center children and in the ATI Communities. The recently held Dental and Medical Mission is the Club’s annual gift to the community. The two-day Dental and Medical Mission last year went as far as Batan, Aklan, and San Jose, Romblon. This year, the

Club has had two Dental and Medical Missions that served about 3,000 individuals. Basic Education and Literacy The Club is committed in providing books, school supplies, school bags and some clothes to its adopted grade school pupils. Every start of the school year, the Club members are busy packing new school bags and stuffing them with pad papers, pencils, books, coloring pencils and other basic needs of the pupils. The Club has also donated personal computers to some schools in Boracay and Malay as part of the RI District 3850 District Grant. Over the years, books, school bags, school building, personal computers, houses for typhoon victims, slippers, toothbrush, vaccines, clothes, relief goods to fire and typhoon victims, nebulizers, water pumps, wheel chairs, electric fans for the students with especial needs and a lot more we donated through the generosity of the sponsors and the Club members. Another highlight of the Masquerade Ball was the search for the Masquerade King and Queen. Appointed judges selected the best dressed and masked attendees. This year’s Masquerade King and Queen were bestowed to King Tom Teehan and Queen Katherine Lopez. Aside from the sash, the two received gift certificates and the bragging rights as the Rotary Club of Boracay Masquerade King and Queen 2016-2017. The party proceeded with some raffle draws where winners took home gift checks from the sponsors. The event would have not been possible without the help of the following: • •

Sea Wind Boracay Resort Mandala Spa and Resorts Villa

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

The Cocoon Nailspa and Waxing by Mandala Spa Ferra Hotel Henann Regency Resorts The Lighthouse Marina Resorts, Subic Sunset Villa Boracay Lugar Bonito Resort Hey Jude Resort Boracay Sun Cruiser My Boracay Guide Asya Premier Prana Restaurant Steak House Boracay Lemone Café Discovery Shores Le Soleil Real Coffee Boracay Haven Suites Kalibo Cable PCTV Travel Warehouse Canadian Glexco Enterprises Classic Characters Global Linens Boracay Sun Hon. Vice Mayor Abram Sualog Jack Jarilla Photography President Teresa Fajila-Bech

The masquerade ball, which was held at the ballroom of Hennan Regency Resort and Spa was graced by international artist, Ms. Pinky Amador, (her 2nd appearance) and Ms. Victoria Agbayani, a singer/song writer and Philippines’ MTV Queen. Pinky Amador performed some of her trademark songs while Victoria Agbayani performed some of her hits. Both performers rocked the night with their medleys bringing the crowd on their feet to the dance floor.

BORACAY SUN

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NOVEMBER 2016

RC Boracay holds Two-Day Dental-Medical Mission LHEN BRUTTON PHOTOS BY ISLAGRAPIKA

n an aim to bring dental and medical services closer and more available to the community, the Rotary Club of Boracay (RID 3850) organized another dental and medical mission last October 15 to 16 at the Malay Municipal Covered Court. Some 541 patients availed of the free tooth extractions and medical consultations from the 14 dentists and one medical doctor who offered their services for free. The mission was held in cooperation with the Philippine Dental Association (PDA), Philippine Association of Functional Jaw Orthopedics (PAFJOTMJ, Inc.), and the Local Government Unit of Malay. Apart from free tooth extractions and medical consultations, lectures on proper tooth brushing, and Lice Away Shampoo Sessions for the children were also held. And initial doses of medicine, coloring books, crayons, toothbrushes, toothpastes and slippers were given away. The Club would like to acknowledge the effort, assistance and generosity of the following individuals and sponsors for their unwavering dedication and willingness to share and give their resources, time, heart and talents into this mission.

• • • • • • •

Medical doctor: •

Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr.

Lally Ortega Cobcobp Ma. Editha Micu- Ramos Ruth P. Javellana Kristine Joyce D. Cruz Ma. Corazon G. Aguinaldo Flaviano Felix C. Siazo Jr. Jorge Rafael “Jigs” PArfan Noel Vergara Mariel Vergara James Cruz

Dr. Howel Javonillo

Hotel sponsors: • • • • • • • • •

The Lind Hennan Regency Resort and Spa Red Coconut Hotel Cohiba Villas Villa Sunset Club TEN A Suites Hotel and Restaurant Hey Jude South Boracay Private Casitas

Food and Beverage Sponsors: • •

Dentists: • • • • • • • • • •

Dr. Glenie Cruz Dr. Mel Dazo Dr. Lizza Aguilar Dazo Dr. Lhen Brutton Dr. Daniel Farnacio Rep. Mr. Fermin Saranilla Ms. Asset Serrano

• • • •

Khristine Brutton – Hao Water Station – Boracay Island Water Corporation Pancit and lumpia - Mr. Ronald Soncio Rtn Glenn Carlo Hernandez Pres. Teresa Fajilan- Bech Dr. Lhen Brutton

Other Sponsors (treat for doctors): • • •

Stingray Water Sports Friendly Diving Mandala Spa

Transportation Sponsors: • •

Boat – PP Mike Labatiao Van - Pres. Teresa Fajilan-Bech

Medicine and Dental Supply Sponsors/Donors: • • • • • • •

Pres. Teresa Fajilan- Bech Dr. Lhen Brutton Rtn. Aisa B. Levai Dr. Rafael Jorge Parfan Dr. Lally Ortega, PAFJO Mr. Ronald Soncio Dr. Lally OrtegaPAFJO

Slippers Donors: • • • • • •

Ms. Marissa Edano Mr. John Ripalda, Rams Boracay Dr. Dan Farnacio Mr. Daniel Ritualo Farnacio Ms. Ritcel Woo Garcia Mr. and Mrs. Bong and Maricon Ortega

Coloring books and crayons sponsors: • • • • •

Dr. Dan Farnacio Ms. Jennifer Garcia Kusano Mr. Ronald Soncio Dr. Dan Farnacio PP Douglas Delfino Fabilane

Media Partners: • • • •

Boracay Sun Yes FM Radyo Todo 88.5 FM PCTV

BORACAY SUN

LIFESTYLE

NOVEMBER 2016

From Boracay to Portugal: A Volunteer’s Journey KAREN BERMEJO

wake up each day with ringing bells as my alarm clock in Braga, the third largest city in Portugal. The bell actually rings every 15 minutes and changes its tempo after each hour passed. The ringing bell symbolizes how religious Braga is, known as the Rome of Portugal and is also dubbed as the City of Bells with over two dozens of churches or igreja in Portuguese. Braga is home during my three months European Voluntary Service. My stay in the westernmost side of Europe is part of the international project – EUROASI: From Europe to Asia: Capitalizing Experience in Youth Work. The project is coordinated by the Italy-based TDM 2000 International and is funded by the European Union under its Erasmus+ program. It is a project between seven partners from Italy, Portugal, Malta, Slovenia, Indonesia and the Philippines. The project’s main objective is for Asian participants to learn from the works of European youth organizations and to bring it home where their journey started. The journey to Portugal however was not that easy for me. It is long, literally. I first discovered the project in February 2015. EuroAsi was introduced by Nigel Gamalong of One Media Boracay, the Filipino partner organization of the project. He was the one who brought the opportunity to Boracay and I am forever grateful to him. I was already looking for volunteering opportunities abroad that time so I claimed the opportunity ever since. In preparation for the international mobility, we were trained on the different aspects of NGO work by European trainers who came to Boracay. I am actually supposed to do my EVS from April to July this year. Unfortunately, for Filipino citizens, getting a Schengen visa is a dreadful process. There is no Portuguese Embassy in the Philippines so I first tried to apply at the Greek Embassy in Manila. But after two weeks of waiting, I was told that I had to send my papers to the Portuguese Embassy based in Indonesia which delayed my trip for more than two months. Waiting was an agonizing experience. Yet, good things really happen to people who persevere, and so it was granted to me. The delay even became a blessing in disguise for I arrived in summer time in Portugal. With ample amount of sun each day, it became easier for me to adjust. The summer time also means a lot of opportunity for me to see and discover the country. But still, Portugal’s weather is always unpredictable. Sometimes, the day will start very cold, then, it will become so hot after a while. Most of the time, a thick jacket is needed to survive the cold nights. I arrived on June 28 in Braga and was welcomed warmly by the people of my host organization, Associação Juvenil SYnergia. SYnergia is a Portuguese organization that is active in promoting activities for young people by developing project for them in the fields of democracy, active citizenship, non-formal education, international cooperation and local development. EVS Work and Experience I always wanted to travel the world, but responsibilities always hindered me from achieving this dream. EVS enabled me to finally realize this dream – this trip to Portugal was my first travel outside the country so I just carried enthusiasm in my heart. I have been writing for different news organizations for five years now. Journalism is my first love. But doing volunteer work brings a different feeling of fulfillment for me. With SYnergia, I was able to realize this passion. This EVS period is a total break from my usual routine of hunting and writing the daily news. During my 3-month EVS, I work mostly with children and young people. On my first month, SYnergia was working together with the Municipality of Braga in

At Braga’s most iconic site, the Bom Jesus do Monte conducting summer camps for children and the youth from the different schools in the city. We conducted different activities related with art, music, culture and sports. Through our work in the organization, I was also able to visit other cities in Portugal, especially its beaches. On my second month, we worked in the promotion of EVS through the “20 Years, 20 beaches” campaign of SYnergia. The activity was to celebrate the two decades of EVS and to encourage the young to do volunteer work. It did not feel like working because we get to enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean, the summer heat and the smiles of the people we worked with. My most memorable activity was the one-week camp during my last month in Porto de Mos, a small city in the Leiria district of Portugal. That week, we conducted activities for the youth from two social welfare institutions in the country. Each has their own battles in life: some are orphans; others have problems with their families, while others are victims of their own vices. It felt good to see that somehow, what we helped brighten the lives of these young people, even just for a while. And that’s one essence of doing volunteer work - to make an impact on someone’s life. The camp also helped me realized my personal project of sharing the Filipino culture to the Europeans. During the cultural workshop I did, I taught them some Filipino words and introduced to them our food, traditions and the beautiful places in the Philippines. They also learned how to play our traditional game called Luksong Tinik. CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

BORACAY SUN

LIFESTYLE

NOVEMBER 2016

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

Our one-week youth camp in Porto de Mos

Gain International Friends Volunteering abroad is also a great opportunity to meet people from all over the world. I am lucky to meet Damla, Mesut, Ayca, Sema, Emel, Melih, Sebnem and Tugrul at SYnergia. They were all from Turkey. I thought I was in the wrong place. But kidding aside, meeting them enabled me to discover more about the rich Turkish culture, too. On my last month, Mateo and Martina from Italy, Alba from Spain, and of course, Turkish Irem and Utku, also arrived. Of course, I won’t forget Matias, my coordinator who welcomed me even before I arrived in Portugal, and Mariana, our project manager. Aside from my fellow volunteers at SYnergia, I also met other volunteers from the rest of Portugal during a four-day EVS camp held in the town of Amarante and that gained me 50 new international friends. I also met more EVS volunteers during our arrival training in Braga. It was actually a bit late since the training was held two weeks before my trip home. Yet, reconnecting with friends from the Amarante camp and meeting new people made the five-day training a memorable one.

With Angelica Perra, president of TDM 2000 Internationald (3rd from left) and SYnergia President Ricardo Sousa (right)

Apart from the EVS volunteers, more interesting people likewise crossed my path during my travels in the other cities of Portugal – the Portuguese couple who owns a café in Porto, the travelers in The Travel School in Aveiro, my couchsurfing host in Lisbon and the people we worked with in a summer fest in Foz Coa. There’s just too many to mention; perhaps, another article for that. Embracing the Portuguese Culture If we Filipinos love basketball, Portugal taught me to love football and, of course, Cristiano Ronaldo. There is a football field almost everywhere. I will never forget the enthusiasm of the Portuguese people when the country won the Euro Cup 2016. Portugal also introduced me to francesinha, a belly-buster sandwich made with bread, ham, sausage, steak or roast meat, and covered with melted cheese and a hot thick tomato and beer sauce. I know you can now imagine how much calorie it has. Other Portuguese specialty everyone should try is their pastel de nata, bola de berlim and their Bacalhau dishes. The Vinho Verde or a young Portuguese wine is also more famous in the north. Yet, living abroad is also not just all about fun. It is also challenging. The greatest challenge is living thousand miles away from home. I never thought nostalgia would hit me. Due to time zone differences, it was hard to contact families and friends back home. Another challenge was losing my luggage during my long travel to Portugal. But instead of stressing so much about it, it enabled me to realize that I can actually live with less stuff. Now, I am back in the island with the wisdom I gained from my EVS experience. Through volunteer work, I was able to see the other parts of the world. It is also the main reason why I will stay in Boracay for long. After all, it’s the world’s best island.

Casa da Musica, located in Porto, is one of the 15 world’s most spectacular concert halls. (Photo from http://images.adsttc.com)

Porto, a World Heritage city, is the gateway and departure point for a journey across the natural and cultural diversity of the region. It is known for the Port wine which is shipped from here all over the world, but also for a heritage which combines ancient churches and monuments, such as the Cathedral and the Church of São Francisco, and modern buildings, such as Casa da Música and the Serralves Museum.

BORACAY SUN

INDULGE

Cafe del Sol Holiday Suggestions

NOVEMBER 2016

he holiday season wouldn’t be complete without the sweet confectionaries on our dinner table. Here are our most recommended cakes and sweets from our favorite neighborhood café for you to try and include in your holiday dinners or during your noche buena:

MICHAEL MADRIAGA

Tiramisu

Chocolate Marble Cheesecake

Poﬁteroles

This is probably the best choice for coffee lovers who would like to have that caffeine fix even on their dessert. Tiramisu is made from ladyfinger cookies, brewed coffee, chocolate and cream. I have tried a lot of versions of this cake from other cafe and coffee shops but, trust me, Cafe del Sol has the best and most remarkable. The cookie base is so moist and flavorful, and oozing with coffee goodness with every bite. The bitterness from the coffee and the sweetness of chocolate and cream exudes a perfect balance of taste and flavor reminiscent of that cozy holiday feel. Slice: 185PHP, Whole: 1850PHP

It is really hard to decide whether you’re getting a chocolate cake or a cheesecake. You can have both with Cafe del Sol’s Chocolate Marble Cheesecake! This cake provides a variation of flavors as it blends the semi-salty taste of cream cheese and the chocolatey goodness of the brownie base and chocolate chips. The hint of lemon zest gives the cream that delightful kick. Though cheesecakes tend to give you a feeling that you just have enough, I suggest that you also pair it with a drink like a warm cup of cappuccino or ice blended cookies and cream to cleanse your palette. Slice: 160PHP, Whole: 1920PHP

Cafe del Sol’s version of cream puffs or eclairs is just one of the many reasons why I keep returning. These bite-sized chocolate-covered pastries are filled with Cafe del Sol’s specialty cream. Just make sure to get a lot as I’m sure you will be eating more than one! It will be a great addition to the holiday dinner table and probably the most delicious ‘Christmas Ball’ you’ll ever have. 1 piece: 30PHP, 4 pieces: 110PHP CAFÉ DEL SOL is located at the beachfront of D’Mall of Boracay, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan. Open from 7 A.M. to midnight daily.

BORACAY SUN

ROTARY BORACAY

NOVEMBER 2016

Someone Benefits as You Eat

he Rotary Club of Boracay, in partnership with St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corridor of Hope Global City and Kahuna Bistro Makati, recently sponsored a project for the benefit of under-privileged cancer patients.

The BENEFEAT dinner for a cause was held at the Kahuna Bistro Makati last October and attended by generous individuals and organizations who didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think twice to share their blessings to extend and save lives. As they say, one passionate advocate can make a positive difference. To everyone who attended and sent their love and support, thank you for sharing your blessings.

BORACAY SUN

HEALTH

Diverting Vertigo MARIAN CASTRO- ORDILLO

ave you ever experienced hearing a sudden, annoying ringing in your ear that lasts for a few seconds? How about feeling that the ground shakes from time to time when in fact everything around you is totally still?

Chances are, you are having a vertigo attack. Vertigo is a feeling of dizziness that causes disequilibrium or imbalance due to an issue with the Central Nervous System or else, a problem in the vestibular region of the ear. A patient who suffers from this may experience nausea and a spinning or moving sensation despite their steady position, standing or lying and even with both eyes shut. There are two classifications of Vertigo: peripheral and central. Peripheral Vertigo, which is more common, is caused by imbalance from ear problems, while, Central Vertigo is usually associated with a possible brain tumor. Peripheral vertigo may last for a few hours, weeks or months, but if due to ear infection may take 3-6 weeks to settle. However, Central Vertigo particularly needs an immediate and more delicate medical tests and procedure. What causes Vertigo? This balance disorder may be caused by the following: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Too much caffeine intake Excessive alcohol and smoking Diabetes Migraine Lack of Sleep Ear infection Dehydration Anemia Thyroid Issues Head injuries Poor Vision Calcium Deficiency Multiple sclerosis Merniere’s disease

NOVEMBER 2016

How to figure it out? Someone who has Vertigo may experience the following symptoms: • • • • • • •

Spinning or moving sensation Nausea Dizziness Blurred or double vision Earache Light-headedness Facial paralysis

What to do? Get Help from an Expert Never self medicate without proper diagnosis. Your vertigo attack needs to be classified before the physician could prescribe anything. Dosage also varies depending on severity. Remember, that some vertigo attacks may be caused by a tumor that may need an operation. Therefore, it is very crucial for your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis to ensure the best possible treatment. Slumber enough Lack of sleep is one of the top reasons why most people suffer from Vertigo. Sleep is our body’s reset button. Having enough of it will not result to having normal blood pressure, good mood, better memory and focus, improved metabolism, and last but not the least, better skin regeneration. Lemon, Spice and Everything Nice A glass of lukewarm water with a pinch of salt, a dash of ground black pepper and 2-3 tablespoons of lemon extract should do the trick. Lemon is among a handful of fruits that is known to be a natural remedy for vertigo. Hydrate. Hydrate. Two liters, half a gallon or 8 glasses of water--- however you want the estimate, is all that we need each day in order to get sufficient hydration. Having enough water does not only help in keeping your skin look good and your bowel movement in A-okay status, but it also keeps your kidneys gassed up to cleanse and detoxify the human body. It also helps in maintaining balance in bodily fluids, controls calories and keeps our muscles energized. Ginger, eh? For centuries, ginger has been used by sailors to ease seasickness for being at sea for months. Doctors also often recommend taking ginger capsules or Salabat (Ginger Tea) to help alleviate morning sickness amongst pregnant women. Hence, powdered, pickled, oiled, capsuled or raw--- ginger is a dependable home remedy for Vertigo. Stop, breathe and focus. At the first strike of light headedness, stop what you are doing immediately and if possible, sit down in a curled up position with your head in between your legs to stimulate blood circulation through your brain. You may also lie down on your back to alleviate the spinning sensation. Stay like this for about 2 minutes, while inhaling and exhaling slowly, until the instance of your vertigo attack calms down. Yoga and meditation works well, too. Above all these, a sudden vertigo attack can be prevented by avoiding things that could trigger it. For instance, having only 2-3 hours of sleep, getting up in bed in a brisk motion or turning your head about abruptly to face someone calling behind you, or worst, riding a roller coaster. Take time to move at a non-too glacial pace, just mildly enough than lie down all day with a post-it on your forehead that says “out-of-order”. Besides, moving goes with improving, just make sure to be cautious about your condition at all times.