Boracay Sun | October 2016 Issue by Boracay Sun

OCTOBER 2016 | VOL. VI NO. 9 | BORACAY’S MONTHLY NEWS ON RECYCLED PAPER

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COMPLETE LIST WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE...

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

OKTOBERFEST: MERRYMAKING AT ITS FINEST JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS

here’s no better international symbol of good times than the good ol’ alcoholic beverage - beer, gin, vodka, tuba, lambanog, what have you. To many, the human spirit is in its freest when under the influence, that is, after the proverbial “Red Horse” has kicked in. Winston Churchill, Alexander the Great, Vincent Van Gogh, Betty Ford – great people whose great stories are alcohol laden and who are also infamously labeled as “historical drunks” – could

IN THE NEWS

BIWC inaugurates new sewage treatment facility >>> PAGE 03

have been very productive every tenth month of the year. The month of October celebrates the booze and the great pleasure it has given mankind. Oktoberfest, a 17-day beer and travel festival, finds its roots in Munich, Germany. The festival has evolved into one of the most popular festivals around the globe as it now features historical and cultural acts to go along with the 6.7+ million liters of tasty, locally brewed beers. Today, albeit with modifications, other countries have done to do the same. In

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the Philippines, top beer brands organize Oktoberfests that are fronted by top showbiz celebrities and famed musicians making it into a beer and music rather than a beer and travel festival. The main draw though is the beer that comes with a large discount. The “Philippinized” version of the beerfest would always draw thousands if not tens of thousands of party- goers. San Miguel Brewery, the largest producer of beer in the Philippines has long held Oktoberfests. Their celebrations branch out to the country’s major cities allowing all of the Filipinos to partake

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in the booze-induced celebration. The island of Boracay is also one in celebrating the booze fest as bars and hotels organize their own versions of Oktoberfest. Boracay Island, being a hodge-podge of international foreigners, is home to people with different cultures and social practices. But this time, the month of October, and in line with Oktoberfest, the good times will roll as tourists, locals, men, women and everything in between shall be bonded by the good ol’ ale. Tagay!

CENTERFOLD

LIFESTYLE

>>> PAGE 13

Guide to Malapascua

Ah, Dumaguete

Disaster Preparedness 101

>>> PAGE 06

>>> PAGE 08

>>> PAGE 10

Game on, Saigon!

EDITOR’S NOTE

We call one’s great desire to travel and discover the world, WANDERLUST. It is such a sweet thought that enables a person to dream, plan and reach a goal across the seven seas, or high up in the mountains. When we wander, adventure takes place in a magical route. It helps us seek a vision of the future – engaging our spirit to commune with the potential calmness brought by the journey. There may be obstacles along the way, but the changing seasons will not hinder our focus in reaching our destination. The great things that we see in our voyage may leave us speechless, in awe, enthralled… But these sights transform us into storytellers. We become animated when we share our stories of the deep blue sea, soft golden sand, snow-capped peaks and the delightful population we came across. At Boracay Sun, we are adventurers and thrill-seekers. We are travelers and storytellers. We chase the wind to bring out the wanderlust in our dear readers. As the newspaper continues to tread on the path of our dreams and aspirations, come along and let us all discover the wonders of the island and beyond. Come… and uncover the storyteller in you.

COVER

THE BORACAY SUN FAMILY

By Alva Alvarez

WWW.BORACAYSUN.COM Senior Editors BLANCHE BASCO & BETH JALEA Art Director ALVA ALVAREZ MA. TERESA FAJILAN

Whoever is trying to bring you down is already below you ~ goodreads.com Fake people gossip about everyone else. Real people mind their own business. ~WomenWorking.com Never regret a day in your life: good days give happiness, bad days give experience, worst days give lessons, and best days give memories. ~Lessons Learned in Life Sometimes, the nicest people are covered in tattoos and sometimes the most judgemental people you meet go to church on Sundays. ~Power of Positivity

boracay.sun

theboracaysun

Columnists JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS, KLAUS DORING, HOLLY GOLIGHLY, MICHAEL JEROME MADRIAGA Contributors JUN ARIOLO AGUIRRE, PATRIK ENLUND, JOHN KOKES, SP01 CHRISTOPHER DEL ROSARIO MENDOZA, JOHN PATRICK MORENO, MARIAN CASTRO-ORDILLO, RICA VELASCO Publisher THE BORACAY WALLSTREET INC. President & CEO MA. TERESA FAJILAN Sales and Marketing Manager MICHELLE ELIZON Operations Manager JOANN “AJ” BARRIOS Boracay Sun Office

Monaco Crossing Tulubhan, Manoc Manoc, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan 5608 editor@boracaywallstreet.com

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Telephone: (+63 36) 288 2582 Mobile: (+63 998) 558 2541 Email: ads.boracaysun@boracaywallstreet.com

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

BORACAY SUN

IN THE NEWS

OCTOBER 2016

IN PHOTO: The members of the San Andres Fire Brigade team, winners of the 3rd Annual Fire Brigade Olympics 2016 held on September 22 at Looc National High School. Six teams from San Andres, Romblon, Looc, Odiongan, Alcantara, and San Augustin competed in the said Olympics. The San Andres Fire Brigade team was sponsored by Beachland Estates Realty and Consultancy Corp.

Boracay Water new sewage treatment facility furthers Island’s sustainability

Boracay Water’s Manoc-manoc Sewage Treatment Plant with a treatment capacity of 5 million liters of water per day will increase used water service coverage in the Island to 61 percent.

eptember 26, 2016 - Boracay Water, the water and used water service provider in the Island of Boracay, formally inaugurated the Manoc-manoc Sewage Treatment Plant which is designed to treat five million liters of wastewater or used water per day. The Manoc-manoc Sewage Treatment Plant is Boracay Water’s second major used water facility and is expected to increase used water service coverage to 61 percent in the Island. The PhP570 million facility is dedicated to treat mixtures of domestic raw sewage and/ or septic tank effluent coming from connected households and establishments in Barangay Manoc-manoc. With an activated sludge system, the Manoc-manoc Sewage Treatment Plant ensures that used water goes through a rigorous process to comply with the Department of Environment and Natural

Resources’ Class SB Effluent standards. With this, treated water from the facility is guaranteed safe for marine life and suitable for recreational activities before it is discharge to the sea. This used water plant located in Sitio Tambisaan, Brgy. Manoc-manoc, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan will be further expanded to accommodate additional flows of 3.5 million liters of used water per day by 2017 and in effect expanding used water services of the company in the Island to 75 percent. Along with the continuous provision of safe, reliable potable water supply to its customers, Boracay Water furthers its pledge of sustaining the Island’s viability by promoting proper used water management through the continuous expansion of its used water services. The Manoc-manoc facility will assist the Balabag Sewage Treatment Plant, the company’s first used water plant with

a capacity of 6.5 million liters of used water per day, in fulfilling the used water needs of the Island.

Boracay Water’s steadfast commitment to help sustain the pristine waters of the island paradise.

The Manoc-manoc Sewage Treatment Plant along with its other used water projects, are in accordance with Boracay Water’s service obligation, to treat all used water generated by its customers and to ensure reliability of existing sewerage infrastructure. More importantly, these effort is in line with

Boracay Water was formed through the partnership of Manila Water and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority in 2009, and provides water and used water services in the island’s three barangays -- Manocmanoc, Balabag, and Yapak. / BIWC Press Release

BORACAY SUN

POLICE DESK

IN THE NEWS

Chinese consuls visit Boracay SP01 CHRISTOPHER DEL ROSARIO MENDOZA

onsul General LUO Gang and Consul WANG Hao from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China visited Boracay on September 7 to 9. Among the offices they visited were the Boracay Tourist Assistance Center, Philippine Coast Guard-Boracay Substation, Boracay Special Fire Protection Unit and Boracay Fire Rescue and Ambulance Volunteers (BFRAV). PSINSP Jose Mark Anthony Gesulga, Deputy Chief of Boracay PNP, briefly discussed the present order and situation in the island, the prevalent crimes, the Boracay Integrated Security Deployment Plan and the CCTV monitoring center situated at BTAC’s Operation and Police Community Relations Office. Commodore Leonard Tirol, Adviser/Consultant of Boracay Action Group (BAG), proudly showed the assets, capabilities and the numerous well-documented accomplishments of BAG in terms of securing and protecting the island against all forms of criminality, as well as that of BFRAV in terms of responding, providing first aid medication, rescue and evacuation of victims regardless of social status, nationality and political affiliation. The Chinese consuls were also welcomed by the Boracay Foundation Incorporated (BFI) headed by its President, Diony Salme, during the lateral coordination meeting held at Hennan Regency Resort and Spa. Present in the meeting were Malay LGU representatives namely, Rowen Aguirre and Felix Delos Santos Jr; BTAC Deputy PSINSP Jose Mark Anthony Gesulga and SP01 Christopher Mendoza, PCR PNCO; P01 Relator and P01 Alvarez of the Philippine Coast Guard-Boracay; Jude Seragon Adiaton of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and IndustryBoracay, representatives of DOT-Boracay Sub Office and other BFI members. Among the topics considered during the meeting were incidents involving Chinese nationals, cases usually reported, problems encountered and reported to Chinese Embassy and possible solutions to jointly help solve the common challenges encountered. The meeting concluded with the aim to maintain the good working relationship between the Boracay stakeholders and the Chinese tourists and to encourage more Chinese tourists to visit the island. From January to July this year, record shows that 187,089 Chinese tourists visited Boracay.

OCTOBER 2016

Malay LGU vows to clean Boracay from wastes JUN ARIOLO AGUIRRE

hile tourists and locals view Boracay as paradise, the increasing volume of garbage being dumped to the different material recovery facilities in the island is a continuing challenge especially for the stakeholders.

Rowen Aguirre, Boracay island administrator, said that in 2015 the local government failed to award a contract to haul the garbage from the island. Because of this, tons of garbage dumped at the different material recovery facilities in the island were left untouched. “Since Mayor Ciceron Cawaling assumed office, it was his primary concern to clean Boracay from wastes. We have already started transferring the wastes usually every Friday, Saturday and Sunday to our sanitary landfill in Malay,” Aguirre said. Even then, Engr. Arnold Solano of the Solid Waste Management said that the five trucks for garbage collection are not enough to clean Boracay on a daily basis. “There were times that some of these garbage collection trucks undergo maintenance activity, the reason why there is still an increasing volume of garbage left uncollected,” Solano said. The five trucks operate at least 60 rounds per day just to collect wastes. As of this writing, Solano reported that there are around 3,310 cubic meters of garbage that are still at the Yapak MRF. Some 10,920 cubic meters are yet to be collected from the Balabag MRF. The biggest volumes of wastes being collected are coming from kitchen and garden wastes. The local government unit has also tapped all barangay officials in networking efforts to collect the wastes in this resort island. The Boracay Sun encourages every one reading this to be wary of the environmental concerns in this resort island.

BORACAY SUN

SPECIAL PRESS RELEASE

IN THE NEWS

OCTOBER 2016

Better, cleaner destinations with Microtel by Wyndham

xploring the country brings to people a whole new appreciation of the beauty the Philippines has to offer. However, increased travel and tourism, especially when left unchecked, can impact negatively on the destinations we enjoy. That is why the very industry which depends on these popular travel sites should take action to make sure that tourism remains sustainable in these places. Microtel by Wyndham in the Philippines chose to do just that. As the hospitality arm of PHINMA Corporation, Microtel by Wyndham took part in the company’s massive, simultaneous one-day Corporate Social Responsibility event last August 12. Called “PHINMA Reaches Out,” the CSR initiative involved various cleanup, rehabilitation, tree-planting, and house-building activities in 38 sites around the country, involving approximately 1,800 volunteers with the goal

Microtel by Wyndham’s resort locations in Puerto Princesa cleaned up Langka Road in Palawan; and in Boracay, cleared trash and debris at Diniwid Beach.

In Metro Manila, two Microtel by Wyndham hotels – Acropolis QC and UP Technohub QC – joined forces to clean the interiors and surroundings of the historic Quezon Heritage House at the Quezon Memorial Circle. Microtel by Wyndham Mall of Asia, meanwhile, conducted a canal cleanup at Manila Bay.

In North Luzon, volunteers for Microtel by Wyndham hotels in Baguio, Cabanatuan, and Tarlac conducted area cleanups of the Baguio Convention Center Tree Park, repainting and cleaning of the Camp Pangatian Shrine, and tree planting at the Monasterio de Tarlac, respectively.

In Mindanao, Microtel by Wyndham Davao headed off to Bucana and planted mangrove saplings along the Davao River. Microtel by Wyndham Gensan did the same and took their mangrove saplings at a site near Purok Minanga, barangay Buayan in General Santos City.

In South Luzon, Microtel by Wyndham Batangas, Eagle Ridge in Cavite, and South Forbes gathered for a cleanup and tree planting activity at Hoyo Lagoon in Silang, Cavite.

Volunteers were composed of employees, local government and tourism partners, and members of the community at each Microtel by Wyndham location. For more information, go to facebook.com/phinmaofficial and facebook.com/MicrotelPhilippines.

of “Making Lives Better.” The undertaking is also part of PHINMA’s 60th year anniversary.

BORACAY SUN

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The Flashpacker’s Guide to Malapascua HOLLY GOLIGHTLY

OCTOBER 2016

Bathing dreamily just off the north cost of Cebu lies a tiny, isolated beach paradise, with powder white stretches of sand, a few small hamlets and green land, ripe for exploring. Malapascua Island, a diver’s and Crusoe’s haven, is just a short 30-minute boat ride from the mainland and is a mere 2.5km by 1km (1.55miles by 0.62miles).

20php each – not much, but not something they mentioned at the time. You’re met with the usual touts offering rooms, don’t go with their offers as they are illegal and you will get better prices by exploring; it pays to wander round and inquire. The ‘town’ is tiny, there are no roads or tricycles, but flag down a motorbike if you need.

he main draw to this tropical paradise is the world-famous diving – Malapascua’s Monad Shoal is the only place in the world you’re almost guaranteed to dive with the whiptailed Thresher Sharks. When we visited in June, news of a grounded tanker had just broken and of course there was concern that the Threshers would be affected. Upon visiting, we learned, thankfully, that this was not the case and the sharks were returning to the shoal as normal. Malapascua thrives and relies upon diving tourism. Having been severely hit by Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) in 2013, the island was reduced to rubble and today all the buildings are gradually being replaced, and the island is very much alive again. As with all destinations, Malapascua has peak and low seasons – peak is January to April – however, we discovered it is worth visiting during low season as the weather is still good and the island is quiet. Getting There We flew to Cebu City – most people arrive and leave this way – and then, as we were short for time and wanted to make the last ferry to the island (they say the last boat leaves between 6 and 7 PM), decided to get a taxi to Maya port. Taxis are the quickest way to get there, taking 2-3 hours (2,500-5,000php), or you can get a bus from Cebu City’s North Terminal, which takes about 5 hours (around 100php). Once at Maya, jump on the public ferry (80php) and you’re on your way!

There are lots of budget options back from the beach, but be mindful of the roosters, they’re everywhere and are very vocal! Beachfront places are mainly dive resorts – some offer deals if you dive with them and there are good rates for backpackers diving, too. There are also inexpensive huts set on the stunning quiet beach path of Bounty Beach and from these you can hear the waves lapping from your bed… heaven! Eat, Drink and Be Merry!

place for real authentic Italian food and there’s even wine served by the carafe. For after dinner drinks, the place to head to is Maldito’s – the only place on the island that’s open until late, and it’s a good place to hang out and meet other divers and backpackers. Under the Sea

There are lots of local/backpacker Filipino-style eateries, all at affordable prices. Our favorite was Mr. Kwizz, perfect for anyone looking for tasty, homecooked grub at very affordable prices.

Aside from the Thresher shark dives, night dives focusing on seeing the stunningly beautiful Mandarin Fish are also on offer. Malapascua is probably the best place in the Philippines to encounter bigger fish species – giant mantas and large white tips are frequently spotted, and the macro life is incredible, too.

For more upmarket western fare, the Craic House at Evolution Dive Resort offers a huge menu and huge portions, perfect for hungry divers wanting anything from wraps and burgers, to seafood and salads. Also offering a good happy hour from 4 to 7 PM, (rhumcoke is at 80php), it’s located right on Bounty Beach.

Prices vary from shop to shop so do your research – make sure the shop you choose has well-maintained equipment, some are more reliable than others. It often pays to spend more to ensure quality of service and safety, we dived with Evolution and found the service and overall experience to be top standard.

On the other end of the island, overlooking an emerald bay is everyone’s favorite: Angelina’s. Hit up this

Good to Know Come with cash! There’s no ATM on the island, so make sure you bring lots of small notes. Only a few places take credit cards. Also come stocked with medical supplies, there’s no clinic (except on Saturdays) or pharmacy, and only one sari-sari-type store selling a few bits and bobs.

Arriving and Accommodation

If you aren’t diving, there’s a fabulous spa, Buena Vida Spa that offers lots of affordable pampering treatments in a Balinese-style haven. Perfect for those days off from the water! Alternatively, get a massage right on the beach for just 300php.

The ferry moors offshore, so we had to get into another small boat to take us to land, which cost

You can also walk round the island in a couple of hours, explore the coves and take in the local villages.

BORACAY SUN

LIFE IS GOOD! KLAUS DORING

lmost twenty years ago, a good friend of mine gave me a book by the establisher and founder of the Scottish Free Church, Thomas Chalmers (17801847). During that time, I was already staying in the Philippines for good and doing some media work in the former Bishop Thibault Media Center near the San Pablo Church in Juna Subdivision in Davao City. Chalmers treated this topic with plenty of flowering words. Yes, don’tbe afraid and do live for something... . Human beings live, move and pass away - free from worries, but unknown and unnoticed. They live such an irreproachable life - reputable, but so incomprehensible and inscrutable. Chalmers was very right. Why do people live like that, even knowing they have to leave the platform of life one day? Why are people sometimes afraid to live and allow something or someone to block themselves? Still in my mind is one statement of Brother Francis Castro from the Little Brothers of Jesus. I quoted it several times already: “I feel the burning

EXPAT FILES flame inside me that makes me jump out of the bed... and hurry to work!” Life’s quintessence can be also this: kindness, by helping the blind man crossing a street; hospitality, by practicing generous reception of strangers and guests (my very first impression, when I step on Philippine soil in 1976!); helpfulness, by taking care of somebody, who is weak and dependent. Believe me, your moment of virtue will never be destroyed by time’s storm. Henri Nouwen, a devotional writer and speaker, whom I also admire very much, spent two hours daily bathing, shaving, dressing, and feeding a man, who was so profoundly retarded he could not speak or walk. Very clear, in that daily act of loving, Nouwen exemplified the compassion and sacrifice of Christ. Love and mercifulness shared with people who cross our path – and nobody will forget us. In our daily life we have plenty of situations where we could show our real calling. Good deeds are shining like stars from heaven. Deeds of love and service may not seem to be an efficient use of time and energy but they are never wasted. Our life doesn’t run counter clockwise. The hands of the clock are the time dictators of everyone. So do live for something! Life is good! Also for me as an expat in the Philippines... Email: doringklaus@gmail.com, follow me in Facebook or Twitter or visit www.germanexpatinthephilippines. blogspot.com | www. klausdoringsclassicalmusic.blogspot.com.

OCTOBER 2016

A Time for Gratitude JOHN KOKES

s we celebrate the Oktoberfest, it is a time to reflect on how really and truly lucky we are. That means to pause and extend our gratitude.

day after day. If you make gratitude a daily habit I promise you that you will feel better, your self-esteem will rise, you will get a sparkle in your eyes, and a spring in your step.

Many people might say “I don’t understand how to express my gratitude”. In this article, I will do my best to teach you all how to express gratitude.

My humble advice is to be sincere and speak directly from your heart. Take the time to thank others for helping you, take the time to be thankful for your shelter, your food, your clothing, your good health, and be grateful to wake up each day to go out into the world and make your own very special mark. Acknowledge the kindness of others to you even if it is something as simple as a friendly smile to you in passing.

Gratitude can come in many forms. You can pray, you can meditate, or simply be silent and send out your feelings. The more you express your gratitude, over time, the better you will feel and notice that things will start to come your way. Maybe not tomorrow, maybe not next week, but I promise you that it will happen to you. You can do it anywhere. At home, at work, at church, while walking or exercising, and even just before you go to bed. It can be long or short. Studies prove that 68 seconds (or more) of sincere gratitude brings the most results. Most of us are so fortunate and so blessed that we just take each day for granted and keep going through life,

If you are walking along outside, try to find a dark wall or dark building and imagine BIG gold letters “GRATITUDE” and hold that in your mind for a minimum of 4 seconds. No building or no wall? Just look up into the sky and find a cloud and see “GRATITUDE” in BIG gold letters. I sincerely hope you all enjoy your Octoberfest with food, drink, good cheer and more importantly, that you will squeeze in a little time for gratitude.

BORACAY SUN

7107 ISLANDS

OCTOBER 2016

Ah, Dumaguete! The City of Gentle People RICA VELASCO

his university town has long been on my bucket list. Particularly because it is well known as a gateway to other tourist destinations, and most especially because the area around it offers an abundant and diverse marine life. My wish of visiting this place has finally been fulfilled and it certainly exceeded my expectations. Dumaguete as a city I found to be very quaint and simple, yet hip and cosmopolitan. This city has no traffic lights and is home to one of the few malls in the country that is solar powered. It has a harbour front promenade lined up with a variety of restaurants and bars. Of course, one cannot visit Dumaguete without wolfing down some of their famous Silvanas and Sans Rival desserts. I decided to stay in the Dauin area, at a resort that specialized in diving. I was very impressed with the credentials of this place and I loved the concept of their Nipa Hut style rooms fronting the caramel-sanded beach. The resort and dive shop is very active in the “green living” practice. They do a monthly dive for their project called, “Dive Against Debris”, a drive to protect Dumaguete’s house reef. The resort is also a proud GreenFins Member, adhering to practices that reduce the environmental footprint and create positive change towards diving in the region. The dive shop strictly enforces rules such as neutral buoyancy, and no touching or collecting of corals and any other marine life. We first went dolphin watching in Bais, about 45 kilometres from the city. As we set out into the calm waters we were excited but did not want to set our expectations too high. After about 30 minutes of squinting at Tañon Strait for any glimpse of these majestic creatures we thought that luck would not be on our side. But then, our boatman spotted a pod of dolphins nearby. It was just glorious a glorious sight. There were easily over a hundred dolphins gracefully splashing around and jumping in unison. They surrounded our boat, some were so near that we could easily touch them (if we tried to). They did the

most beautiful flips and tricks and really seemed to be enjoying themselves (I swear, they were even smiling and laughing!). After a good hour with these marvellous dolphins, we headed to the famous and stunning Manjuyod White Sand Bar, a stretch of white sand at the center of the bay, to cool off, which was easy as the water just came up to our shins. It was like being in our own private beach with no one else around. Next, we went diving and snorkelling at Apo Island, known to be one of the world’s best communityorganized marine sanctuaries. On the dive I saw some of the most beautiful and vibrant soft corals that swayed with the current and whose colors were made even more dramatic when the sun’s rays reflected on them. The radiant hard corals are also hard to miss for their interesting forms and hues. The icing on the cake was the large variety of colourful fish in all shapes and sizes. We then went snorkelling to two more spots in Apo Island, where I was delighted to observe a turtle for a good ten minutes - a creature that I am absolutely fascinated with - happily nestling itself in a crevice. Even just by snorkelling I was able to see such magnificent multi-colored corals and marine life. Now I fully understand why people gush over Apo Island. I will definitely go back there to explore the other

dive and snorkelling sights as there are simply too many of them. On our last day, we headed to Oslob Cebu, which is only a short drive, and a ferry ride, away from Dumaguete. Oslob is really well-known for whale shark watching. I had my apprehensions specifically because environmental groups have cautioned against going on this tour as it was known to harm the whale sharks and keep them in an unnatural environment. However, my urge to see these beautiful beings prevailed. The tourists were briefed before heading into the water and were repeatedly told not to touch or even go near the whale sharks, otherwise there would be a fine to pay. We were also informed that there are marine biologists around the sharks to make sure that the creatures are not harmed. As I jumped into the water, one whale shark was immediately within a few meters, followed by a second one. I was in utter awe. They were gorgeous, adorable, swam at a leisurely pace, and were constantly being circled by a school of fish. They were fascinating to watch, and at one point I was lucky enough to see even three of them altogether. Dumaguete exceeded my expectations and I was only able to see some parts of it. I will make it a point to go back to see other parts of this beautiful and pristine region - such as the Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao, Pulangbato Falls, Mount Tanilis, and especially the mystical and intriguing Siquijor.

BORACAY SUN

+ ALTITUDE

7107 ISLANDS

Meeting Top Bikers at a Stop-Over JOEL JAMES CUBILLAS

hen my Batangas-bound ferry stop-overed at Odiongan, Romblon, I went to the viewing deck, lit one cigarette up and zombie-stared the heck out of the mountainous island. It was majestic: the clear waters ushering in the towering mountains especially the one that I so want to conquer: Mt. Guiting-Guiting (or G2 in local mountaineer slang), infamous for its 9/9 difficulty rating thanks to its complex rock climbing and scrambling courses. It was a beautiful afternoon as the island was embraced warmly by the sun and calmed by the gentle sea breeze. The one scene that caught my attention though was a group of mountain bike riders – five of them still sporting their cycling jerseys and cleats -- “Did they just ride over the mountain of my dreams?” I wondered. Being a bike enthusiast myself, I just had to interview them. My gut told me that, like any other outdoors people, they would head straight to the viewing deck. I was right. See, bikers get along rather quickly: “Kamusta ang trail, sir?” I asked the

youngest of the bunch. “Okay lang, biker ka din, sir?”

OCTOBER 2016

“It’s because my mere presence intimidates them,” he continued. “Imagine when a one-armed man passes you by in an uphill… I’m like their motivation to ride even harder” Dennis Alemania’s bike sports the regular 3x10 setup but he opted for the integrated braking system which compensates for his limitations.

The casual interview commenced. They did not cross G2, they competed in the 2nd Binoog Mountain Bike Challenge, a cross-country contest that traverses the areas of San Agustin ,San Andres and back via Anapog-AgtagsingBinoog mountain trail. EDISON Edison Nunez, youngest of the bunch at 22, won 2nd place. “Nag-second ako, eh,” he said, albeit with a hint of disappointment for he won it all last year. He began competitive biking at the age of 18 and despite all the laurels to his biking career and the sponsorships that he has garnered, he still longs to finish his post-high school studies.

ANGELITO

NINO

He has been a newspaper delivery man (who labors around the metro atop his bike) for at least thirty five years and continues to be involved in the bike industry for he is now one of the makers of authentic, Philippine-made Bamboo bikes and is now a professional bike mechanic. At the age of 45, he still is one of the stronger bikers of the pack and is competing at a high level in his age category.

Nino Tobiano of NLM Trading assembled the group. “We come from the same circle of friends, so we get along pretty well’, said Nino who also stands as the team’s manager. Being a triathlete himself, he understands the joy of defying the limits of man and machine: “naka-anim nga ata akong bagsak e, pero ok lang, natapos naman.”

With all of his experience and expertise in biking, it is not surprising the he represents top brands — Colnago Manila and Prima bikes, to name a few.

The kindhearted lad, win or lose, expects nothing in return from his team for he assembled it primarily to share his passion to equally avid outdoorsmen who find joy in experiencing the great challenge that the good ol’ bike and the mud-filled trails present.

RODERICK “Dapat kasi i-prioritize talaga ang pagaaral,” he quipped. DENNIS “Sila ang nacha-challenge sa akin,” he answered with audacity. The warm-hearted local government employee from Valenzuela City met with an industrial machine mishap that ultimately led to his arm’s dismemberment.

One of his most treasured triumphs was when he topped the GIRO Pilipinas Subic Leg where he crashed mid-race but with his raw strength and sheer will, he regained momentum and won it all. Roderick Calla, like the others in the group, thrives in the local bike scene and is in the bike reselling business, he is also a coach and a “phaser” to local celebrity-athletes like Piolo Pascual and the Legaspis, to name a few.

Winning the event seems to just be a consolation to these men. Competitive biking may be too far a reality for people like me who has the slightest idea of physical and dietary conditioning. But it is pleasant to know that competitive bikers don’t always do it for the laurels and the trophies for there are also competitors who actually take pleasure in the simplicity and cordiality that the local biking culture offers.

BORACAY SUN

CENTERFOLD

OCTOBER 2016

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 101: DOS AND DON’TS FOR EMPLOYEES AND THE COMMUNITY SP01 CHRISTOPHER DEL ROSARIO MENDOZA AND JOHN PATRICK MORENO

he recent bombing at a night market in Davao City that killed 15 people including pregnant women and caused 70 injured prompted establishments, especially shopping centers, to double their efforts in ensuring the security not only of the shoppers but also of their workers. The Philippine National Police augmented their presence in busy areas and streets, and police officers were deployed to places where previously had none. Bomb threats 101 were conducted in companies and even in schools and universities. In the island, the Boracay Entertainment Resources, Inc. (BERI) launched such campaign among its employees. BERI, the company that brought delectable dishes to Boracay, gathered its employees in a Disaster Planning and Preparedness Briefing on September 11, 2016 at Aria Cucina Italiana. Some 150 Boracay-based employees from BERImanaged establishments such as Aria Cucina Italiana, Aria Gelato, Café del Sol, Hama Japanese Cuisine and Julie’s Bakeshop, attended the event which was spearheaded by BERI COO, Ernie Casas, in partnership with the Malay Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction & Management Office (MDDRMO). Resource speakers from the Boracay Police and the Philippine Red Cross were invited to talk on the following topics: Security Measures and Effects of IED (Improvised Explosive Device) to the human body (Boracay Tourist Assistance Center Deputy Chief Jose Mark Anthony Gesulga,), Employee Awareness on Suspicious Packages and Bomb Threats (Police Community Relations Officer Christopher Mendoza), and Mass Casualty Incident Orientation and Common Emergencies for Possible Terrorism Attack for Employees (Joan Tobio and John Patrick Moreno of MDDRMO and Philippine Red Cross-Boracay)

be determined by management or proper authority for the safety of people and property. There is a difference between a hoax threat and a bomb threat. Hoax - no bomb has been placed in the facility. These are usually designed to alter the workforce, institute a sense of fear, or test reactions to a bomb threat. Bomb - an actual warning of an explosive device in or near the facility. This call is an attempt to minimize personal injury, but they also enable the terrorist to blame others if there are casualties. Bomb threats may be received in different forms and should be taken seriously; either in phone, email, mail or by just a mere observation. If you happened to receive a bomb threat, you have to remember the details of the conversation including the accent (foreign or local) and gender of the caller or speaker, and immediately report to your supervisor or to the local police or security department. Start the building evacuation. If a suspicious object is found, DO NOT TOUCH.

Employee Awareness on Bomb Threats

Remember: Don’t Panic. If telephone number appears on the caller identification – Write Down The Number, the time and date of the call. Ask where the bomb will explode and when. Hold the conversation, for as long as possible

Most bomb threats are hoaxes and primarily made to disrupt business operations Authenticity of which can

Upon receiving of bomb threat: remain calm! Listen carefully about what’s being said, for background

noise or voices, and for an accent or other voice characteristics. Always take the call seriously and do not interrupt the caller. Ask the caller to repeat any part of the conversation you did not understand. Obtain as much information as possible and write it down. Attempt to alert others to contact the police while remaining on the line with the caller. Inform the caller that detonation can cause injury or death to others. Note any distinguishing background noises (bells, voices, music), specific area. Delay -ask the caller to repeat, do not get excited or excite others. Suspicious package: a package becomes suspicious if it has an excessive tape or string, rigid or bulky, lopsided or uneven, or with protruding wires or metal. A package has strange odor, wrong title with name, oily stains, discolorations, or crystallization on wrapper. It is also suspicious if it arrived under unusual circumstances, with handwritten or poorly typed addresses, excessive weight, ticking sound, shows a city or state in the post mark that does not match the return address, misspellings of common words, no return address. Do not shake or empty the contents of any suspicious package or envelope. Do not create a bomb joke. Bomb Joke is punishable under Presidential Decree 1727 “Malicious dissemination of false information of the willful making of any threat concerning bombs, explosives or any similar device or means of destruction.”

BORACAY SUN

CENTERFOLD

OCTOBER 2016

RC INTENSIFIES CAMPAIGN TO PREVENT ZIKA VIRUS SPREAD

n response to the latest confirmed Zika virus cases in the country, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has intensified its campaign in disseminating information on how to prevent the spread of the virus.

BE READY!

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Typhoons, earthquakes, fires, shipwrecks, terrorist attacks and bombings, what do they have in common? They all can happen anytime and anywhere especially when you least expect it and could definitely destroy and/or affect number of lives.

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The average 25 typhoons per year, recorded earthquakes, and fire incidents reported in the news and the recent bombing incident in Davao is an urgent call for each one of us to be ready.

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Mass Casualty Incident   

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Any call involving three or more patients. Any situation that requires a mutual aid response. Any incident that has the potential for one of these situations: • Vehicle crashes, earthquakes, building fires, bombings. If there are multiple patients and not enough resources to handle them at the same time. The aim in Mass Casualty Incident is to do best for the most, not everything for everyone.

Triage   

“To sort” patients based on the severity of their injuries. Assessment is brief and patient condition categories are basic. Four common categories give the order of treatment and transport: • Immediate (Red Tag) – First Priority • Airway & breathing difficulties, severe bleeding, severe burns. • Delayed (Yellow) – Second Priority • Burns without airway problems, major or multiple bone or joint injuries without severe bleeding, back injuries with or without spinal cord damage. • Minor or Minimal (Green) – Third Priority • Minor fractures, minor wounds & minor burns. • Expectant (Black) – Fourth Priority • Obvious death, respiratory arrest (if limited resources) & cardiac arrest.

Crime Scene Management – Duties of the First Responder/s   

Evacuate injured person to the nearest hospital. Cordon off the crime scene with whatever materials like ropes, straws, human barricade, or police line if available. Prepare to take dying declaration of severely injured person.

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Prevent entry of unauthorized persons within the cordoned area. Report to the nearest police station. Prepare to brief the investigators of the situation upon their arrival. Recording of pertinent information such as time, date and place of incident, weather condition, names and addresses of witnesses. Note the position of the victim upon arrival/ discovery of the victim. Take note the identity of person/s who entered the crime scene prior to the arrival of the investigator and the SOCO.

Emergency Action Principles 

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Scene size-up • Always check first if the scene is safe. • Know what happened. • Ask bystanders’ assistance if necessary. • Look for number of casualties. • Ask for consent for any casualties. Primary Assessment • Check victim’s responsiveness, airway, breathing & circulation/pulse. Activating Medical help Secondary Assessment • Interview the victim or bystanders. • Check the victim from head to toe. • Check for vital signs (pulse/heart rate, blood pressure, respiration rate and body temperature).

If you want to learn more, be well prepared and ready at all times, join Philippine Red Cross Boracay-Malay Chapter. The goal of the PRC for Boracay and Malay is to organize the live savers group called Red Cross 143 (1 leader and 43 members) in every barangay and every establishments/workplace. The volunteers will be equipped with knowledge and skills on Disaster Preparedness, First Aid and CPR, Psychosocial Support and Blood Donor Recruitment. The maintenance of peace and security is a shared responsibility. It is not only the accountability of the police or the government. Please do your share. Get involved and learn how you can help ensure the well-being of the visiting tourists and members of the Boracay Community.

For those who wanted to know more, or interested to be part of Red Cross 143 Boracay-Malay Chapter, you may call our number at (036) 288-2068 or reach us through boracay@redcross.org.ph .

According to the recent report from Department of Health (DOH), three people have already been tested positive for Zika virus this month, all of whom are from Iloilo. This brings to eight the total number of confirmed cases in the Philippines since 2012. It was also reported that the two recent confirmed Zika cases belong to the same household. It is highly considered to be a local transmission since the 45year old woman, who was the first case has no recent travel to any Zika-infected area. “As the World Health Organization (WHO) considered Zika as a global health threat, I immediately advised all our staff and Red Cross 143 volunteers nationwide to lead the campaign to prevent the spread of the virus by closely monitoring affected area and providing all necessary information and preventive measures to the public,” said PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon. The PRC mobilized all its chapters nationwide to make available helpful guides on how to prevent and deal with the disease through social media sites and other information sources, especially in Central Visayas where recently confirmed cases were recorded. Zika infection is characterized by mild symptoms such as mild fever, skin rashes, joint pain, fatigue, headache, and red eyes. So far, there is no vaccine yet against the Zika virus. Zika virus is transmitted directly by Aedes aegypti, which is the same mosquito that transmits Dengue and Chikungunya. It can also be passed on through blood transfusion and sexual intercourse with an infected person. Zika virus may also result to severe birth defects called microcephaly or babies with abnormally small heads. Thus, PRC urges the public to be more vigilant by protecting themselves against mosquito bites. Wearing light-colored clothes, using mosquito nets at home, and using insect repellents authorized by health authorities are highly advised. Practicing cleanliness is also important. Eliminate all possible mosquito-breeding sites such as flower pots, old tires, bottles, and any other recipients where water can accumulate. Soon after a Zika infection case was first monitored in the country in 2012, PRC already initiated various preventive activities like cleanup drives and public health campaigns. PRC also advised blood donors to defer their blood donations for one month if they are at risk of Zika virus exposure or have travelled to Zika affected areas, to lessen the risk of passing the virus in the locality. / http://redcross.org.ph/press/news/ zikaalert

BORACAY SUN

LIFESTYLE

OCTOBER 2016

he ticket I purchased wasn’t even on sale but my fingers found their way to book a round-trip ticket from Manila to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. To be honest, I was really clueless on what I will be seeing in this city, formerly known as Saigon. With only a few more days left before my flight, my time was devoted in researching and creating an itinerary. It was my first time to try ‘backpacking’ (by that, I mean literally bringing just a backpack with some clothes and other necessities in it) in another country and the excitement just overpowers the nervousness of traveling unprepared.

MICHAEL EVERYWHERE

Game On, Saigon! MICHAEL MADRIAGA

famous Bahn Mi (french bread sandwich stuffed with your choice of cold cuts, barbecue pork, or deep fried pork) and Chao Long (rice porridge topped with pork innards). War Remnants Museum

Pham Ngu Lao

Adding to my fear is the fact that I will be arriving at Saigon past an hour after midnight and also, most of the blogs I’ve read said that they find it hard communicating with the locals even in English. With all the delays and air traffic congestion in our airport, I arrived in Saigon much later than expected. Thanks to the very tourist-friendly airport services in Vietnam, I still managed to get myself a cab and safely arrive at my hotel. With more confidence that I will survive this Vietnam adventure, I started on my tour around the city early the following morning. Here are the spots that made it to my itinerary. Pham Ngu Lao Vietnam is famous for backpackers especially who want to have a laidback vibe in a foreign country. Also known as the Backpacker’s district, Pham Ngu Lao never sleeps as this is the place to get your Saigon night life experience – a bottle of beer costs around 25 pesos only! Different food establishments are scattered around the area, ready to serve customers from breakfast till midnight. Don’t forget to try authentic Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) being sold on popup stalls in the area. Ben Thanh Market

For those who want to know more about the history of Vietnam, the best place to visit is the War Remnants Museum. Different items such as ammunitions, weapons, and even war planes during the Vietnam War are on display. The “dark past” of the country is well portrayed through the different exhibits, one could feel the pain brought by the war just by looking at the remnants. A special exhibit located at the museum grounds with mannequins inside prison cells portrays how the Viet prisoners condition was after being captured by the American soldiers. To be honest, I find it somehow gory due to the very graphic depictions but I also find it a very interesting and informative eye-opener. Cu Chi Tunnels Here’s another destination for those who want to learn more about Vietnam’s history and how people survived during the wartime. Cu Chi Tunnels, Saigon’s famous attraction, consists of various underground tunnel networks that were used as a hiding place and pathway to escape American soldiers. Tourists are given a chance to experience crossing these tunnels, but it is suggested that people who have heart problems, asthma, fear of small spaces (claustrophobia) refrain from doing so, as some parts of the tunnel are too dark and narrow, limiting oxygen flow inside. The whole network is located inside the jungle, so make sure to always follow your tour guide as it is believed that there are still traps around the area. During the tour, you will also get a chance to use the shooting

For souvenirs like keychains, magnets, apparels, even comb made from ox horn, there is no other place to purchase them than in Ben Thanh Market. Here, your haggling skills will be put to a test. One technique that works is to pretend that you’re walking away and the vendor will chase after you while offering almost half the first offer. Food concessionaires are also found in this market, catering to hungry shoppers. I was able to try the

War Remnants Museum

Saigon Central Post Office

range. Capping the tour, different stations have audio visual presentations showing documentaries about the Cu Chi Tunnels for tourists to better understand its importance in Vietnam’s fight for liberation. Notre Dame Cathedral Also known as Basilica of Our Lady of Immaculate Concepcion, this enormous Romanesque cathedral was constructed during the late 19th century by French colonists. People visit the church as it is said that the Virgin Mary statue in front of the cathedral once shed tears, thus having miraculous powers of granting one’s wish and healing one’s sickness. Today, it stands a symbol of the Vietnamese faith and the most influential religion in the country. Saigon Central Post Office Standing beside the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Gothic Renaissance facade of the post office has been one of the most iconic landmarks of Saigon, making it one of the most used icons in souvenirs. Different souvenirs are also for sale inside the post office, including collector’s items such as post stamps and old coins and bills. Who says that postcards are outdated? Here, you can see a lot of foreign tourists signing Viet-themed post cards and sending them to their loved ones back home. With a minimal fee, you can also try sending one if you want the “classic” way (before the Instagram and Snapchat era) of showing off where you’ve been to. Overall, I enjoyed my first “backpacking” experience in Ho Chi Minh City. With all the great attractions and cheap yet sumptuous meals, I couldn’t help but miss my whole adventure. Right now, I constantly check for seat sales so I can revisit Vietnam and get a chance to see and experience more of what it offers.

BORACAY SUN

LIFESTYLE

OCTOBER 2016

Atte Kappel, 44, sold everything and moved to the Philippines PATRIK ENLUND

ou get a job, so you can afford to live. But then, you spend all your time at work and end up with no time to live the life you are working for. Atte Kappel, 44, sold everything and went with the wind. Literally. Questions? In July 2008, Atte was in his backyard outside his house in Nyköping when his surfer buddy André stopped by. “André told me he was reading this book about passive income, I stood clueless but André kept going. “Imagine writing a book, that’s a one-time job and after you’re done, the money keeps on coming in as long as the book is current”. Those words gave me an epiphany and I asked myself, what is really worth living for?”, told Atte. A long discussion with his friend André made Atte start counting all of his assets, his house, his car and some savings. Was there a solution to being able to live more freely by working and creating a passive income for yourself other than the old fashioned way? “15 000 SEK a year, more than half of earth’s population get by with less than that amount. That insight was important for me proceeding my plans for the future. Prior experiences led me to decide that Southeast Asia would be a good fit for my purpose.” Considering his huge interest in kitesurfing, the elements and nature played a big part in him choosing a country. Considering the most important thing – the wind - Atte chose the Philippines, ahead of a couple of other alternatives. “I called André and told him I was going to the Philippines to see if my budget was going to be enough and asked him if he wanted to come with me. On Christmas Eve that same year, we went to the island of Boracay and stayed there for almost a month. During that time, I learned about the financial outgoings and put that in my future budgeting.” Since the American stock market crashed in 2008, the financial situation took a turn for the worse. This led to a couple of 100k SEK in loss of value on Atte’s house, but that did not stop him. He was dead set on moving. Looking at it in a sane way, Atte could be gone for three years and still come back

with enough money to buy a studio apartment and return to an “ordinary” reality again. “I quit my job and sold the house the next summer. I tried to sell and donate my old surfer stuff, it felt good to get rid of it. I was fully convinced that “less is more”. I saved two boxes with old photos and significant memories. On September 19, 2009, I bought a one-wayticket at Arlanda Airport and checked in my 58kg of personal belongings.” Atte returned to the island of Boracay, a growing destination for tourists with good possibilities to do business. This also became his home for the next four years. His time on the island was spent kitesurfing and also searching for a source of income. He invested in both sailboats and tricycles. But it turned out making a profit wouldn’t be easy. “I bought myself some local sail boats and hired a crew. This was a popular tourist activity. Unfortunately, it didn’t generate as much money as I had hoped. I noticed that one week the boats never left the dock. When I asked my crew why they told me about a basketball tournament in their village which they had to attend to and didn’t have time for sailing.” He sold all of his boats and paid his attention on to the tricycles, instead. They were like Boracays answer to the tuktuks in Thailand. This time he was more careful and kept stats on all his drivers to be able to have more control, at least he thought he was. “Trust is a hard thing in this country. It’s impossible to know how much the drivers put in their own pocket. The whole process with permits for the vehicles is a big mess. It’s a lot of bureaucracy and when all the tricycles on the island were needed to be replaced with an updated electric version I thought it would be best / was time to sell my vehicles. To make a long story short, my attempts of making a business down here gave me experience, but not much else. My motivation for living on Boracay was starting to lack. With the increasing tourism came the higher prices. A million people visits the island every year and with a newly opened international airport close by, that number will probably go up even

more. I started running out of money and in the need of some sort of change. I took my board and surfed to an island nearby, Tablas, to explore the possibilities of living there instead. Two weeks later we took our bags and said goodbye to the island of Boracay.” Atte today is living a comfortable life with the wind in his hair and sand between his toes. Along with his girlfriend Jingjing, he is building a house for them, old fashioned way. And when he’s not surfing the ocean, he’s out surfing the web. The person who brought internet to Tablas was actually Atte himself. “I met my girlfriend through surfing. She’s born and raised on Tablas, a place we now both call our home. We were given the opportunity, thanks to contacts and friends, to buy a 2700 square feet area of land on top of a hill with a breathtaking view for not more than 15 000 SEK. The lack of internet on the island was a big issue for me, so I solved it.” Through his background as an ITtechnician, Atte saw the possibilities. A connection between a telemast in Boracay and another one up on their hill in Tablas led to success. The first ever online connection in Tablas was now a reality thanks to Atte. Now he gets neighbors coming to their hill asking to borrow their connection to Skype with their family in Dubai. Prior to this, there was only one possible connection – via short, expensive mobile phone calls. “The possibility to give the neighbors a chance to talk to their family is priceless!” The happy couple is working hard on building their dream house. Bags are filled with dirt and being piled up to make the foundation of the walls. The catchwords for the project is based on economy and the environment.

“It’s not the fastest way to build a house but the final result will be great,” said Atte who does not want to rush things. The Thailand tsunami in 2004 has made its marks. “We were a group of eight people, two of us didn’t make it. That gave me post traumatic stress and a life of “manana, manana” gives me a piece peace of mind. Tablas is the same today as it was a hundred years ago. We get water from our own well in the backyard. We cook our food on a gas stove or over open fire. The power comes and goes how it pleases, everything is just how it’s supposed to be.” That “passive income” or a well working business never happened. Work a little in Sweden and live a lot in the Phillippines became the solution. “I am able to work a few months a year at my old job in Sweden. Me and my girlfriend together needs about 4000 SEK per month to be able to live a good life in Tablas, so why would I spend more time in Sweden than necessary?” Besides the extra money he gets from working in Sweden, Atte is a successful kitesurfer. His sponsor Flysurfer provides him with essentials to be able to compete on a high level. He’s often on the price podium in different Asian tournaments. The same thing goes for his girlfriend Jingjing. The prize money is not a huge amount but it helps them increase their savings. “We enjoy what we’re doing, living the simple life with a “less is more” attitude. If anyone questions my lifestyle I happily blame my friend André, it’s his fault I’m here.” /Patric Olé Follow “A different life” on Facebook for more stories like this in your feed

BORACAY SUN

HEALTH

OCTOBER 2016

The Wrong ‘Roid’ to Travel (7 Facts About Anabolic Steroid Abuse) MARIAN CASTRO-ORDILLO

ndrogenic Anabolic Steroids (AAS) or simply Anabolic Steroids are synthetic hormones designed to treat medical ailments. Despite its original purpose, the use of AAS for cosmetic enhancement or athletic advantage is very rampant nowadays.

Although these drugs can be legally prescribed by doctors to treat allergies, cancer, hormonal problems and other health issues, they are given in highly controlled dosages for only a short period and are NEVER provided as a maintenance drug. However, due to sudden boost in muscle strength and physique while taking the drugs, some often abuse its use despite the risks. But is it really worth it? Here are a few disturbing facts that will make you think twice. 1.

You’ll look ‘hot’ for just a while, not forever. The anabolic effect of AAS results to having a massive body building physique and more toned athletic muscles. It can also boost one’s athletic ability to ‘superhuman level’. Hence, people who use it have a tendency to feel insatiable about their charming appearance and physical performance, and hopes that they stay like that forever. As a result, they opt to overdose. Unfortunately, once intake is halted, the ergogenic effects of AAS will start to drain and the gorgeous body you once have will start to crumble, leaving you with disproportioned body masses. It makes you go nuts. Common side effects of steroid abuse include paranoia, insomnia, extreme irritability, mood swings, impaired judgment

and delusions. Long term use can also lead to concussions that when frequently occurs may result to early contraction of Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia. You’ll increase the risk of contracting or transmitting HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis. Most people who abuse the use of AAS normally inject it for faster effect. Since the prescription of anabolic steroids is highly regulated, abusers often obtain their ‘juice’ illegally from the black market, so they normally self-administer the drug. Most of the time, the drug equipment they use are not always sterile. When done in groups (so they can help one another to inject the drug), some abusers would likely share syringes and multi-dose bottles, hence, making them more vulnerable to life threatening diseases such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV/ AIDS. It can lead to addiction. Long term use of steroids makes the user become dependent on it. Most of them claim to feel more confident and happier with their bodies, or rather, perform better in everyday activities. However, once withdrawal period comes, they tend to use more steroids to keep up with the pain and harmful effects that have been acquired due to long exposure to the drugs. You’ll feel cut off from others. Since abuse of steroids is not something you normally share with other people, most abusers keep it to themselves. However, since the side effects include variable behavioral and mental diversions, steroid dependents become aggressive, reckless and paranoid with the simplest things, causing them to lack good judgment and mistrust people, even their families and friends. Most side effects are irreversible. Masculinization

among females, feminization among males, cardiovascular diseases, kidney and liver problems, skin diseases, heart enlargement, high blood pressure and neuropsychiatric side effects are some of the worst effects of steroid abuse. There is no reset button to these conditions, so better be cautious before you take in more than what was prescribed. You’ll get a one-way ticket to your grave. Steroid, just like cigarette, is a slow killer. The side effects heavily affect not only your physical, but also your mental and emotional well-being. Overdose can bring a lot of complications to your body that can therefore lead to death.

The best way to prevent steroid abuse is education concerning the dangerous side effects. Never get caught in the trap because buying your way out would cost you a fortune, or worst, your own life. A lot of athletes who have never ever used steroids have made history without the need for these false ‘health buffs’. In conclusion, proper exercise and having the right diet is still the best road to travel in getting a fabulous and healthy body.

BORACAY SUN

ADVERTORIAL

Position Paper on the Aklan Electric Cooperative (AKELCO) THE PHILIPPINE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE – BORACAY ON BEHALF OF THE CONCERNED AKELCO CONSUMERS

e, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce – Boracay, the voice of business and an instrument for positive change, are pleased to represent the business community and stakeholders of Boracay, by putting forth our collective position on grave concerns regarding the power crisis we all have been and continue to face on Boracay Island – the crown jewel of Philippine tourism, and our home. In the years AKELCO has served Boracay Island, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Boracay has witnessed the deteriorating service and poor quality electric power supply. With due respect on the management, it is our hope that our plight is heard, and that change can finally be upon us. Issues raised and stated hereon, including relevant information that have been gathered from June 4, 2016 to the present.

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The Facts: • •

Aklan Electric Cooperative (AKELCO) is tasked to supply electricity to the province of Aklan. For the past 10 years, local businesses and residents have become accustomed to taking the regular power system failures, popularly known as “brownouts,” with a grain of salt, a normal

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occurrence and consequence of living on a small island. Due to constant tripping of lines and low voltage, power fluctuations and interruptions, and overall substandard electric supply, breakdowns in appliances & equipment (both household and commercial) result in costly personal and capital expenditures, interruptions in business operations due to poor quality electric supply, and a sense of injustice for the members of the cooperative that pay a monthly premium (including inconsiderate price hikes in power rates), not to mention undue stress on the island’s tourism industry. Business establishments are forced to invest additional capital to purchase diesel powered generator sets to keep the flow of business running without interruption. Sadly, this is the norm; resulting in small businesses appearing as substandard establishments for being unable to afford or sustain the additional investment during (almost weekly) scheduled 8-hour power outages by AKELCO. Existing AKELCO infrastructure is substandard and unsafe, creating a high risk of potential fire hazards towards private property and causing regular power system failures. In the span of 75 days (from June

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4 to August 10, 2016), multiple, daily and intermittent power service failures numbering to at least 30 power outages in the span of one week, for a total of approximately 50 power incidents raised the consumers’ concern with the cooperative’s ability to provide proper service. Concerned consumers raised a call to action on the second week of July. Hon. Nenette Aguirre-Graf of the Sangguniang Bayan heeded the call, inviting AKELCO to address the issues plaguing not only the island destination (hailed as “One of the Best” in the world), but also the province of Aklan. On July 26, 2016, represented by Director Ariel B. Gepty, Engr. Joel Martinez and Engr. Parco, AKELCO appeared at the SB Session, and presented a less-thanconvincing presentation according to the majority of those present.

If only AKELCO would adhere to the vision that states:

The following issues are what we deem our rights as members of the cooperative.

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3. 4.

We simply demand overall better service from AKELCO.

This is proof that if the private sector and the government work together, we can do the almost impossible. We are reaching out for judicious solutions now.

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This is not the first time that AKELCO has been inundated with controversy. In April of 2002, triggered by massive dissatisfaction among the tourism sector and residents over high electricity cost, frequent and prolonged “brownouts” due to operating problems and financial losses. A resolution requesting for change in AKELCO Management was then sent to the office of the President. Then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo stepped in to appointment of Fr. Silva of NPC to replace the former general manager.

Call For Change:

We, the consumers expect to be provided with a consistent flow of electric power at 220v. No more, no less. We contest the legality and protest the “Energy Deposit” required on applications for new business installations. We expect stable, clean and competitively priced electricity. We expect decent customer service to address our concerns.

OCTOBER 2016

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Effective and Efficient Cooperative Organization Viable and Sustainable Electricity Distribution Business Owned and Patronized by MemberConsumer Managed and Operated by Competent & Professional Staff Thereby contributing to the progress and development of Aklan. (Source: www.akelco.com.ph) For more information on AKLECO, you may visit: http://www.akelco. com.ph/about-us.html.

BORACAY SUN

ROTARY BORACAY

OCTOBER 2016