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December 6-19, 2015 Vol. XXXIV No. 5

The quaint province of Quirino celebrated unity and diversity as it recently celebrated its 44th founding anniversary and Panagdadapun Festival. Literally meaning “gathering” in the Ilocano language, Panagdadapun gathered the municipal festivals of the various towns which reflected the province's rich cultural diversity. Punctuating the celebration were various socio-civic and sporting events capped by a grand street parade which put to the fore the pride of place of the province’s six towns. Quirino governor Junie Cua said that the celebrations highlighted the economic, political and governance gains the province has achieved since its creation in 1971.

Six years of injustice: The Maguindanao Massacre W

APEC 2015 recap

by VIA BAROMA

by CHING DEE

58

lives. 58 murders. 198 suspects charged. 0 convictions.

This is the summary of the Maguindanao Massacre—the worst incident of election-related violence in the Philippines, and what the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) cites as “the single deadliest attack” on members of the media.

On November 2009, when Esmael ‘Toto’ Mangudadatu decided to run for governor in the 2010 elections, his pregnant wife Genalyn chose to submit his certificate of candidacy for him. Her sister, their team of legal counsel, and 32 members of the media joined her to cover the filing.

None of them made it alive out of Barangay (village) Salman in the town of Ampatuan, Maguindanao on November 23, 2009.

Justice delayed It has been six years since the heinous crime made international headlines, but to this day, there have been no convictions made to implicate the political family of Ampatuan in Maguindanao or the other people responsible.

Emily Rauhala of Time.com wrote in November 2014, “By now, the awful details of what happened that day are well established: [58] people... were stopped, executed by gunmen, and buried on site. It was a brutal, sloppy job; the executioners, it seems, were not worried about getting caught.”

All in all, roughly 198 people were charged for involvement in the massacre. The hearings—which called for over 150 witnesses (four of which have been killed), hundreds of hours in litigation, and thousands of pages

of impertinent documents and narratives— haven’t produced a single conviction as of November 2015.

Justice denied In a special report by the Philippine Daily Inquirer on the massacre’s 6th anniversary, the kin of the victims “are losing hope they will get justice during the term of President Aquino.”

An exasperated Mangudadatu tells the Philippine Daily Inquirer in the same report, “We already presented witnesses who testified that Unsay (Andal Jr.) and the other accused were the ones behind the massacre. What else does the court need?”

Even the imprisonment of several highvalue suspects have been questioned and page 2 one of them, Datu Sajid Islam

ith over 10,000 delegates, including some 1,300 chief executive officers and heads of 21 economies from all over the world converging here in Manila for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting on Nov. 18 to 19, the government declared the Philippines’ hosting of the APEC Summit a success.

Much was made by netizens of the tight security measures enforced to ensure the safety of the economic leaders and delegates in Manila. Road closures and rerouting schemes of major highways such as EDSA and Roxas Boulevard, which resulted in traffic disruptions in the metro, resulted in a public outcry, with motorists and commuters unceasingly complaining of the inconvenience brought about by the event, while several flights were also cancelled to make way for the arrival and departure of the heads of 21 economies participating for the summit.

Now that the big week is finally over, Filipinos have a lot of questions rummaging in their minds: What does this hosting page 3

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E X P AT N E W S P A P E R

NEWS

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

DIPLOMATIC AFFAIRS Compiled by VIA BAROMA

DFA Undersecretary shares outcomes of APEC Philippines 2015 at the OECD in Paris

dium Enterprises) participation in regional and global markets, investing in human capital development and building sustainable and resilient communities.

The Undersecretary also shared the outcomes

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Laura del Rosario listens to questions following her presentation on APEC Philippines 2015.

After the Philippines’ successful hosting of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Manila, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary and APEC Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) leader Laura Q. del Rosario shared the outcomes of APEC 2015 at the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) headquarters in Paris, France.

Over 80 participants from various OECD delegations, diplomatic missions, French government agencies, think tanks and companies attended the Forum entitled “APEC Philippines 2015: Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World.”

During the first session, del Rosario spoke about the priorities of APEC Philippines 2015: enhancing the regional economic agenda, fostering MSME’s (Micro, Small and Me-

of the Economic Leaders’ Meeting, particularly the Philippines’ contributions to the APEC process.

“The Philippines has produced a ‘new kind of APEC.’ Aside from pushing the traditional APEC agenda of trade and investment, the Philippines also pushed for a development agenda through inclusive growth and the APEC Strategy for Strengthening Quality Growth. This Strategy mandates all APEC economies to build institutions on good governance, social cohesion and environmental impact. And in 2020, APEC will release a report on the APEC economies’ progress in these key accountability areas,” del Rosario explained.

Another item on the development agenda that the Philippines introduced was the role of women in development. “This is the first time

in APEC history that the SOM Leader was a woman. The ABAC (APEC Business Advisory Council) Chair was also a woman (Ms. Doris Magsaysay Ho). Women were driving APEC this year and all the men said yes to us.”

During the second session, which focused on the Philippines, OECD experts shared some policy recommendations for the Philippines to be on track to become a high-income country by 2048 (based on OECD estimates).

Mr. Kensuke Tanaka, Head of Asia of the OECD Development Center, summed it up, “The growth prospects and macroeconomic stability of the Philippines are good, and therefore now is the time to embark on structural reforms.”

Taking off from the 2016 Economic Outlook for Southeast Asia, China and India, which the OECD launched on Nov. 20, Mr. Tanaka highlighted the need for the Philippines to improve job creation, infrastructure development and the overall framework for disaster risk reduction and management.

The Forum was jointly organized by the OECD Development Center and the Philippine Embassy in Paris.

“As smart grids are one of the most effective solutions for distributing and consuming power, USTDA is pleased to support CEPALCO’s smart grid goals.”

The grant is funding a feasibility study that will help CEPALCO develop a technical scope and implementation plan for an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) pilot project. The study will consider the preliminary analyses – including technical, economic and financial – needed to develop the pilot project.

The pilot project aims to install 2,000 smart meters and the supporting communications infrastructure in CEPALCO’s franchise area.

CEPALCO’s ultimate goal is to implement smart grid technologies that can optimize its distribution services, increase power reliability and reduce electricity losses.

The opportunity to conduct the USTDAsponsored feasibility study will be competed through Federal Business Opportunities (FBO). A link to the FBO announcement will be posted to USTDA’s website at www. ustda.gov. Interested US firms should submit proposals according to the instructions in the FBO announcement.

USTDA promotes efficient power distribution

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) awarded a grant to the Philippines’ Cagayan Electric Power and Light Company, Inc. (CEPALCO) to support the utilization of smart grid technologies to manage, monitor and distribute electricity more efficiently.

“It is vital to ensure that energy resources are distributed and consumed as effectively as possible, and that requires innovative technology solutions,” said USTDA Director Leocadia I. Zak, who signed the agreement along with CEPALCO’s CEO, Ed Bautista.

Honorable Leocadia I. Zak, Director, USTDA (left) awarded a grant to Mr. Edgardo A. Bautista, Chief Executive Officer, CEPALCO to support the utilization of smart grid technologies.

Six years of injustice...from page 1 Ampatuan, was released from prison after paying the bail amounting to PhP11.6 million (US$246,277) for 58 counts of murder.

The decision was issued by Quezon City Regional Trial Court Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes of Branch 221.

The younger Ampatuan is now running for the mayoral position in the town of Shariff Aguak in Maguindanao.

Last year, 42 members of the police who were also involved in the massacre were also released after paying bail.

When the of 74-year-old family patriarch Andal Ampatuan Sr. succumbed to a fatal heart attack on July 17, 2015 without a jail sentence or any finality from the courts about the 58 counts of murder charged against him. The

families of the victims believe Ampatuan Sr. should’ve paid the ultimate price and spent his last days inside a jail cell and not a swanky hospital.

Not during Aquino’s term During US President Barack Obama’s visit to the Philippines in April 2014, President Benigno Simeon Aquino III was asked during a press conference about the progress of the Maguindanao Massacre ruling. His immediate answer, verbatim, was “something like 52 journalists” were killed.

The outrage over Aquino’s response about something so infamously basic was felt all over, with people reminding the president of his pledge when he was elected in 2010 that

he will ensure the conviction of the suspects before his term ends.

Aquino’s term will end in about five months.

In the same Time article, Rauhala writes, “Aquino was supposed to stop this… But his government’s handling of the Maguindanao case, as well as the use of violence against media in general, is seen by ordinary people and rights activists alike as a striking and somewhat perplexing failure.”

In fact, according to data collected and released by the PCIJ, 23 members of the media were killed in the first 40 months of the Aquino administration. This is, without a doubt, the worst rate of impunity killings since 1986 when Martial Law ended.

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The Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) says that 23 journalists were killed in the first 40 months of Aquino’s tenure — the worst rate since 1986.

Perhaps justice is a bit too much to ask from a country so deep in graft, corruption, dynasties, and dirty politics. Perhaps justice is too much to ask from a system so severely broken that is in need of a major overhaul. But when our humanity is at stake, is there really such a thing as “too much to ask?”

Foreign exchange rate (PHP to USD) as of December 4, 2015.

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DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

F E AT U R E S

Joanique Shares Smiles with Maskara Collection

by ANGIE DUARTE

P

hilippine-based accessories brand Joanique spreads literal smiles with a collection that embodies the festive Filipino spirit. Available across the world, with stores in London, Tokyo, Hong Kong and America, Joanique and its Maskara jewelries and clutch bags take inspiration from the iconic and colorful Masskara Festival in the city of Bacolod. Self-taught designer of Joanique, Malou Romero, aimed to share the symbol of the happy spirit crafted within the Maskara, or the smiling mask.

The uniquely Filipino statements from Joanique began in 2011, when Romero decided to raise awareness on the archipelago’s colorful past and cultural traditions through artistic expressions that broke through to the fashion industry. Overtime, the brand became known for not only its premium quality in materials, but also its focus on beauty, and its ability to tell exciting and authentic stories that captures the heart of the Philippines.

Romero has designed jewelry with ethnic designs that no one else can champion, always with eye-catching colors and a strong base of gold and silver. Hands-on, she oversees the design, material selection, and production of every piece. Each of her practical creations “must be worn in order to be understood,” with an elegant style catching the attention of publications like Vogue, Travelite, Le Mag Paris, and stores like Anthropologie.

The Maskara clutches consist of roundshaped bags with distinct and lively faces, carrying with it its own spirit. Designs range from the vibrant native Filipino masks to the dramatic ones influenced by the Carnival of Venice in Italy.

Marvel on the fine and intricate designs of their current and past collections, and get a hold of your own Joanique item through their online store by logging on to www.shop.joanique.com.

Stunning designs from Joanique Spring-Summer 2016 Maskara Collection

APEC 2015...from page 1 really mean? How will the country benefit from it? Are the costs and incovenience worth it?

PhP10 billion question The Philippines reportedly allotted PhP10 billion to stage the year-long APEC activities.

Ambassador Marciano Paynor Jr., director general of the APEC National Organization Council, said that the expenses were an investment, adding that the traffic and inconvenience the summit caused is "a little sacrifice compared to the benefits that we will gain out of our membership from APEC," as noted by a CNN Philippines report.

Budget Secretary Florencio Abad said that hosting the APEC Summit is an achievement that put the Philippines back in the global limelight by raising the stature of the country before the global development arena.

Meanwhile, former Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said that the allotted budget spent was too much.

"Our job is hosting the annual meeting, make the leaders as comfortable as possible and make them secure. That's all. We don't have to spend billions of dollars for APEC." Apart from the PhP10 billion budget spent by the government in hosting the APEC, Albay Governor Joey Salceda said, as reported by Interaksyon, that the country was estimated to have lost about PhP15.2 billion in consumption activities and other income, PhP2 billion in flight cancellations, plus other income, which amounts to almost PhP30 billion of losses for the week-long event.

Salceda, however, pointed out that hosting the summit "showed the whole world that we can handle the safety and security of the heads of 21 economies and 10,000 delegates, including some 1,300 chief executive officers from around the world."

MSME focus For the first time in the history of APEC, the summit meeting put emphasis on policies to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) by tackling some of the current trends that can inspire entrepreneurs.

Promoting MSMEs is part of the government’s initiative to increase the participation of MSMEs in global and regional trade.

These small businesses, which make up 99.7 percent of APEC economies, have been identified by the APEC Business Advisory Council as key to tapping into inclusive growth. SMEs emerged as the engine of

growth and innovation in the summit.

World power dialogue One of the highlights of the CEO Summit came with the dialogue between US President Barrack Obama, Jack Ma of Alibaba Group and the Filipina founder of a company who makes ecological lamps powered by salt and water, Aisa Mijeno.

Obama called on world leaders and the private sector to address the issue of climate change and encouraged more investors to get into clean energy.

“The old rules that said that we can’t grow our economies and protect our environment at the same time are outdated,” the leader of the free world said. “We can transit to clean energy without squeezing businesses and consumers.”

Meanwhile, Ma called for the support and empowerment of small businesses in the world saying that these businesses are the “most innovative forces” and a real trade treaty should be an agreement between businesses.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, meanwhile, called for concerted efforts to boost the openness of the Asia-Pacific economy and safeguard multilateral trade systems. “We need to devote ourselves to win-win cooperation, resist protectionism and facilitate fair competition,” Xi said.

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev echoed Xi’s remarks and called for joint, coordinated and concreted action against terrorism after recent terror attacks in his country and France.

Hosting benefits Several bilateral talks were held on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Manila.

According to a Rappler report, the Philippines is on Canada’s priority list for Official Development Assistance and to receive support for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) inclusion.

Meanwhile, the Philippines wants to expand economic cooperation with New Zealand and seeks support for TPP inclusion.

Vietnam also supports the Philippines’ TPP inclusion and established a strategic defense and maritime partnership.

Chile and the Philippines signed agreements on disaster risk reduction and management and study of free trade. Also, South Korea President Park Geun-hye vowed to improve the Social Security Agreement, and

donate defense and disaster response equipment to Manila.

Mexico, for its part, signed agreements on avoidance of double taxation, cooperation on tourism and the fight against illegal drugs. Russia, meanwhile, agreed to enhance trade and economic cooperation, as well as to strengthen the fight against illegal drug trafficking.

Papua New Guinea agreed to strengthen ties with the Philippines by improving trade and cooperation against climate change. Columbia and the Philippines were also in talks to increase trade relations.

In light of the territorial dispute the Philippines is mired in with China, Obama pledged “ironclad” commitment to defend the Philippines by announcing the transfer of two more ships to the Philippine Navy; the host country and Japan started talks to finalize a deal that would allow Tokyo to transfer military equipment to Manila; Australia and the Philippines signed the Joint Declaration on PhilippinesAustralia Comprehensive Partnership; while Taiwan announced an agreement with the Philippines pledging non-violence in disputed fishing zones.

Despite all these, the leaders claimed that talks regarding the growing tensions regarding the disputed South China Sea were not tackled

during the APEC Summit.

China pledges US$10 billion infra loans Amidst international calls to stop the land reclamation in the disputed seas to reduce tensions, China offered a US$10 billion infrastructure loan to Southeast Asian leaders during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in a summit between the regional bloc and Beijing last Nov. 21 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

There were no details provided on how the proposed loan could be accessed, or who would manage the funds.

The Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said that Beijing was “willing to quickly conclude” a legally-binding deal with ASEAN “on the basis of consensus.”

He also added that parties that are not claimants in the dispute should not hype the situation. "That is in nobody's interest. Only by expanding our common interests and seeking common ground can we narrow our differences," Li added in a statement.

Meanwhile, President Aquino told East Asian leaders including Li: “The world is watching and expects no less from a responsible global leader.”

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E X P AT N E W S P A P E R

C E BU N E W S

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

Cebu river tour cops int’l tourism award

by RICHARD RAMOS

T

he Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce the winners of the Tourism InSPIRE Awards 2015. Proudly supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the SWITCH-Asia Regional Policy Support Component (RPSC), managed by UNEP, funded by the European Union, and implemented by PATA, the awards recognized six organisations and businesses that have demonstrated excellence in social, environmental, and economic sustainability in tourism.

Bojo Aloguinsan Ecotourism Association (BAETAS) of Cebu, Philippines received the Tourism InSPIRE Award 2015 for Best Community Based Tourism Initiative for its serious commitment to sustainability principles and evident benefits to community members.

CBT Vietnam and Ban Rai Gong King Community-Based Tourism Club received Honourable Mentions in the same category.

Joselito “Boboi” Costas, ecotourism consultant and one of the founders of BAETAS, revealed that he was initially overwhelmed when BAETAS inspired other towns in Cebu by helping them on the basics of ecotourism.

But upon learning of the PATA award, he was ecstatic at its triumph, aside from the fact that BAETAS has beaten entries coming from 26 countries worldwide.

Already six years old, the itinerary consists of a guided river tour along the 1.4-kilometer Bojo River, a mangrove ecology and bird lecture, lunch and snacks along with a handicraft demo, plus optional swimming and snorkeling. Venue is in the southern town of Aloguinsan situated around 70 kilometers from Cebu City proper.

But more than just the tour itself, BAETAS also engages in several outreach and goodwill programs aimed at a holistic and total development of the town itself and the involved sectors.

Examples are its Pay it Forward Projects such as coastal clean-up, sponsoring a candidates’ forum, supplemental feeding, etc.; mentorship program like running the tourism office daily; branding sessions on recruitment and training of motorcycle drivers on ecotourism, local history, customer service, personal hygiene, etc.

Add on environmental governance which covers nabbing of bird poachers, demolition of fish traps, and training of housewives to become dolphin and whale watching interpreters. Plus the Community Digital Tourism wherein the BAETAS funded a training program on social media marketing, disaster preparedness and e-commerce to three other associations in partnership with Smart.

Sustainable practices include recruitment

and training of local naturalist interpreters, policies on visitor management, usage of indigenous and recyclable materials at the visitor reception center, manufacture of eco-friendly products for income-generating activities, household gardens, computer donation, and social media marketing to facilitate online queries, Department of Tourism Regional Director Rowena Montecillo declared that the DOT takes pride on the BAETAS award as her office fully recognizes their commitment to sustainability principles and evident benefits to the community members.

In a text message, she expressed hope that more local government units and private organizations would come up with more community based initiatives to be able to preserve and conserve the local resources and also provide livelihood opportunities to community members.

“Better yet, the recognition will come in more useful in attracting additional visitors to the place,” she texted.

PATA presented the six Tourism InSPIRE Awards at a special awards ceremony on the evening of Friday, November 27, 2015, at a dinner gala hosted by the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines during the PATA New Tourism Frontiers Forum 2015 in Legazpi, Albay, Philippines.

The Tourism InSPIRE Awards are presented to outstanding applications in six categories: Best Branded Accommodation, Best Independent Accommodation, Best Marine and Wildlife Tourism Provider, Best Culture and Heritage Tourism Provider, Best Responsible Tourism Destination, Best Community Based Tourism Initiative.

Walk-in package is PhP400 per person and includes swimming and a river cruise. The full tour is PhP650 per head for a minimum of five persons. A welcome lei, welcome drinks, lunch at the Bojo river, snacks at the Farmhouse, handicraft demo, river cruise, and swimming are included in the package.

A student package is PhP850 per head for a minimum group of five. It includes welcome lei, welcome drinks, lunch at the Farmhouse, snacks at the Bojo River, handicraft demo, river cruise, swimming, and a tour of the Baluarte, church, and parola.

Since the communities running the tours need to prepare everything beforehand, they ask that booking be done two days in advance.

For inquiries and booking purposes, contact the Aloguinsan Tourism Office at (032) 469-9041, Rudney at (0905) 913-3055, Jamaila at (0922) 658-0094 or (0949) 375-8978, and Jerry at (0917) 730-9757.

Tourism VIP bemoans authors as teachers

W

riters and authors should remain writers and authors. Industry experts should be the teachers.

This was the message delivered by Robert “Bobby” Joseph, NAITAS (National Association of Independent Travel Agencies) president, as he expressed frustration at a longstanding practice in the educational system which places more emphasis on paper credentials rather than actual industry experience.

“The Department of Education (DepEd) mandates that only graduates with masteral degrees are qualified to teach at the collegiate level, regardless of his or her actual field experience. This is very unfair and discriminatory to the industry veteran who lacks the proper educational credentials but would like to teach the youth,” Joseph declared during the weekly 888 news forum held at an uptown Cebu hotel.

He strongly hinted that paper credentials be given less importance in comparison to actual field experience, which is definitely more valuable due to its timeliness and relevance in the industry.

An earlier example given was the case of a chef who would have wanted to teach cooking at a tourism hospitality institution due to his decade-long experience on a cruise ship but was forbidden by the DepEd to do so since he lacked the educational credentials.

Joseph revealed that majority of the tourism teachers have little or no experience on the field while imbibing only theoretical and bookish matters to the students who end up with paltry knowledge on the subject matter.

“An example here is on bartending. They sometimes use make-believe ingredients for the real thing. The students can’t quite grasp

3rd SM mall opens in Cebu

A

s a perfect complement to Cebu’s surging economic growth brought about by a dynamic private sector and foreign direct investments (FDIs), a giant realty conglomerate has recently inaugurated its brand new mall to introduce novel shopping lifestyles to the Cebuano and Visayas communities.

Opened last November 27, 2015, the fivestorey SM Seaside City Cebu boasts of over 400 food and retail outlets plus international brands situated on a nine-hectare lot at the South Road Properties.

Total mall area measures over 47 hectares or 470,490 square meters inclusive of its fourstorey parking area which can accommodate over 4,300 cars.

Entertainment and leisure components include five theaters including an IMAX venue, a 16-lane Bowling and Amusement Center, a newly-opened Olympic size ice skating rink, and two Director’s Club cinemas.

Already open are food chains Café Laguna, Kuya J, Jollibee, McDonalds, Burger King, KFC, Tokyo Tokyo, etc. along the main mall corridors and selected concessionaires at the food court.

the actual results or concoction of the drink.

How can you expect them to learn?” he asked the audience.

Joseph urged the DepEd, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to give more consideration to industry experts who have more knowledge on the subject matter compared to “armchair” professors who have scant field experience.

On a more positive note, Preciosa Soliven, widow of the late Max Soliven of Philippine Star fame, welcomed the K-12 curriculum, saying it would jumpstart the Philippine educational system to new levels due to its novel programs and technical curriculum.

“We are the last country in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to adapt the K-12.

Its about time we had this so we can compete

by RICHARD RAMOS

better with our neighbors. The technical aspects would cater more to the underprivileged and make better usage of their skills and knowledge,” she said.

However, she did bemoan the DepEd, CHED, and TESDA for still being “conventional and immovable” thus stunting the learning capabilities of the high school and college students due to the decades-long and outdated teaching methods and habits.

Soliven urged for critical thinking to be taught at a very young age in order to better equip the youth with better decision-making skills and a higher emotional quotient.

“Likewise, morals and educational standards should be imparted at the elementary level for a more emotionally aware and mature individual in the making,” she said.

by RICHARD RAMOS

Probably the mall’s most noticeable feature is the iconic Seaside Tower. This is a 25-storey, 148-meter tower with a roof deck, viewing deck, and restaurants offering sensational views of the city while serving as a landmark of Cebu.

The Cube, a 21-meter by 21-meter sculptural piece serves as the mall’s iconic landmark.

As a symbol of strength and stability, the cube is a tribute of the resilience of the Cebuanos in particular and the Filipino in general.

While public transportation remains to be a problem, the mall offers several posh buses which will traverse three routes plying the airport--SM City Cebu--Mambaling--SM Seaside City Cebu--Phoenix Petroleum--Talisay routes and vice versa very soon.

The mall is a large component of the 30-hectare site of SM Prime Holdings of which upcoming projects will consist of residential towers, hotels, a convention and exhibition center, a school, and hospital.

SM Seaside City Cebu is the third SM mall in Cebu, the first two of which are SM City Cebu and SM Consolacion.

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S P OT L I G H T

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

membership from APEC." True to form, Filipino hospitality means spending beyond your means—much like how people borrow money to throw a grand feast during local fiestas.

870,000,000

After APEC: What now?

by CHING DEE

A few weeks after one of the biggest—if not the biggest—gatherings of economic leaders was held in Manila, Philippines, many Filipinos are asking, “What did we actually achieve with the APEC hosting?”

The easiest and most honest answer is that it’s still too early to tell what long-term benefits were incurred after hosting the yearlong Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit. In fact, it is still ongoing.

Before the entire APEC Summit concludes, let’s take a look at the numbers behind the summit.

21

APEC has a total of 21 member economies, which include Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Canada, United States, Chinese Taipei, People's Republic of China, Hong Kong, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, Chile, Peru, Russia, and Vietnam.

10,000

According to APEC Philippines’ official Facebook page, over 10,000 delegates were involved in the Summit held in Metro Manila from Nov. 18 to 19. The entire delegation

included 19 economic leaders, two high-level representatives of member-economies, 21 trade ministers, 21 foreign ministers, 21 senior officials, over 6,000 staff and security personnel, and more than 4,000 members of foreign and local media.

In a thank you message posted on the official APEC Facebook page, they wrote, “Thank you for your patience and understanding over the inconvenience brought about by our enhanced security measures. You have shown to the 10,000 delegates… what Filipino hospitality means.”

So, what does “Filipino hospitality” exactly mean in the APEC context? Well, first off…

10,000,000,000

The Philippine government allegedly allotted PhP10 billion as budget for APEC 2015.

However, some reports say the budget is for all APEC-related activities for the entire year, while some reports say it’s just for the weeklong APEC Leaders’ Summit (Nov. 16 to 20).

According to director general of the APEC National Organizing Council Ambassador Marciano Paynor Jr., hosting the APEC “is an investment” and the inconvenience to the people is "a little sacrifice compared to the benefits that we will gain out of our

Apart from hellish traffic cause by road closures and rerouting during APEC, hundreds of flights were also cancelled during the peak of APEC. In a report by JC Ansis of CNN Philippines, flagship carrier Philippine Airlines reportedly “lost an estimated PhP870 million,” while budget airline Cebu Pacific lost about PhP400 million in revenue due to APEC cancellations and temporary no-fly zones.

This is Filipino hospitality: Putting your visitors’ needs before your own.

189

In an article by Iris C. Gonzales in the New Internationalist Blog (www.newint.org) dated November 25, 2015, Gonzales cited that “more than 100 street-dwellers [were] rounded up by social workers” to be hidden away from sight during APEC. “This is what hosting the 2015 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit meant to many Filipinos as the Philippines rolled out the red carpet last week for the world’s leaders,” Gonzales wrote.

More from Gonzales: “According to New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW), authorities rounded up hundreds of indigent and homeless Manila residents… 48 homeless or indigent individuals were detained at the Jose Fabella Center… Likewise, the local government of Manila said that authorities had ‘rescued’ at least 141 street children...”

Perhaps this gross disregard for human life—

being treated like dirt being swept under the rug instead of precious lives with potential—is the most disgusting practice of the Philippine government.

And sadly, this, too, is a sign of Filipino hospitality: Cleaning the surfaces of the house to make it presentable enough for guests.

In the interest of fairness and accuracy, let us also discuss the effects of the 1996 APEC Summit.

202,600,000,000

“The Philippines' gross domestic product (GDP) expanded to US$284.60 billion in 2014 from US$82.85 billion in 1996,” says ABAC Philippines representative and cochairman of the National Competitiveness Council Guillermo Luz in a report from Chrisee dela Paz of Rappler.

Luz believes that APEC is “a good networking event.”

If you do the math, that’s a difference of PhP202.6 billion between the country’s 1996 and 2014 GDP. That is an average increase of about PhP11.26 billion every year for 18 years.

Suffice it to say, we are hoping for the same positive effect after the recently concluded APEC Summit. We—the Filipino dilettantes hundreds of millions of pesos away from the upper 1 percent—hope all that traffic and all that walking and all those missed work hours due to tardiness will be worth it in the end.

To conclude, allow me to share the words of lawyer and journalist, Teddy Locsin, Jr.: “This is what APEC is doing for us: Giving us the incentive and the inspiration to keep up the sort of appearances that, for now, we are just putting on for the conference. But if you keep up appearances long enough, they sink to the bones and become an enduring reality.”

6

E X P AT N E W S P A P E R

F E AT U R E S N E W S PA P E R

The Philippines’ forum for international readers since 1981

Hong Kong Winterfest Beckons This Holiday Season

Murray Hertz Founding Publisher (1928-2014) Butch C. Bonsol President & Managing Director Timothy Jay Araneta Ibay Editor-in-Chief Carmencita H. Acosta Associate Editor Angie Duarte Richard A. Ramos (Cebu) Senior Writers Via Baroma Ching Dee Staff Writers Leah Egamino-Palaña Advertising Coordinator Jennifer Codera Billing, Credit and Collection Supervisor Nikki Joy Habana Macjanry Imperio Design & Layout Circulation/Classified Ads Officer Our Headquarters: Unit 207, Cattleya Condominium Bldg.

235 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Our telephone numbers: (+632) 840-2996 or (+632) 812-0987; Fax (+632) 840-2988 You can also reach us at: expatmag@gmail.com

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

A

s the year-end festive season approaches, December in Hong Kong is the perfect cool weather getaway with temperatures reaching below 15 degrees Celsius. Travelers should look forward to Dec. 4, which signals the beginning of the 2015 Hong Kong WinterFest, and its array of entertaining activities guaranteed to create an enjoyable and memorable holiday for families.

Kicking off the exciting line-up is the magical Sparkling BVLGARI Roman Holiday at Statue Square, set to light up Central with a large, jewel-like Serpenti light-art installation, inspired by the ancient Roman and Greek symbol for wisdom and strength. A special collaboration between Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and BVLGARI, the centerpiece is made up of fifty thousand LED lights used to illuminate the serpent’s body, and took six months to build, and another two months

to install.

Just a fiveminute walk from Statue Square is the Obser vation Wheel, where visitors can take a 15-minute ride on a luxury gondola and enjoy an unobstructed view of the iconic Victoria Harbour and skyscrapers decorated with glittering lights lining both Kowloon and Hong

Kong Island.

Catch a Star Ferry ride, rated as one of Tripadvisor’s “Top 10 Must-See Destinations in Hong Kong,” for excellent views of Victoria Harbour, Victoria Peak and the Hong Kong skyline. At the stroke of 8 p.m., passengers get to witness a middle-of-the-harbor view of the Symphony of Lights show where 44 buildings around the harbor perform a colorful and musically synchronized 13-minute display.

After alighting at Tsim Sha Tsui, families will definitely delight in the enthralling Hong Kong Pulse 3D Light Show at the Open Piazza of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. Get transported behind-the-scenes to Santa’s office where his elf helpers are busy organizing Christmas wishes and letters, all in a bid to spread the perfect festive cheer.

This year, Harbour City partners with Hong Kong Disneyland for Disney’s 10th anniversary celebration, transforming the Ocean Terminal Forecourt into a “Happily Ever After” Christmas Avenue, complete with a giant golden starry tree and Frozen window displays. Families can celebrate the joyous occasion with Disney characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Queen Elsa, Buzz Lightyear and more.

Next on the holiday itinerary is a fiveminute walk to 1881 Heritage, the former headquarters of the Hong Kong Marine Police. Here, the Grand Piazza transforms into a 13-meter high gothic cathedral-like ice palace with a majestic ice-skating rink where kids and adults alike can fully indulge.

Welcome a wonderful year at the highly anticipated New Year Countdown Celebrations on Dec. 31, and join locals and visitors as they gather to watch the pyromusical show and fireworks right at the stroke of midnight. Vantage points include the waterfront along Tsim Sha Tsui; the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Open Piazza and Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade; West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade; New Central Harbourfront; the promenade at the Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai and the areas around Central Piers No. 9 and 10.

Visitors who want a complete look at beautifully decked out Hong Kong can hop on either The Big Bus Night Tour or Open-top Bus Starry Night to enjoy the winter-themed citywide decorations and glittering skyscrapers while on the road.

For more information on the 2015 Hong Kong WinterFest, log on to www.DiscoverHongKong.com/winterfest.

New Generation Cooking with Miele Discover the Generation 6000 Series from Miele, and elevate your kitchen experience!

and for sales and advertising: expatcomsales@gmail.com Cebu Mailing Address: MJ. Cuenco Avenue cor. C. Mina St., Mabolo, Cebu City Telefax: (032) 412-8000 Statements, views and opinions expressed by the writers, contributors, and advertisers are their own and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher or the management.

The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material.

M

iele, Europe’s trusted, hi-tech and innovative brand of home appliances, recently launched its newest collection at the first-ever exclusive Miele Gallery at The Residences at Greenbelt, Makati City.

The Miele Generation 6000 Series is a showcase of equipment bearing the hallmarks of the popular brand: sleek, sophisticated, and state-of-the-art; all designed to make life in the kitchen a whole lot easier and decidedly more enjoyable. This, of course, is In line with the design principle of “form follows function.”

Immer Besser: Forever Better Founded over 100 years ago by Carl Miele and Reinhard Zinkann, the brand’s commitment to meticulous perfection is constant.

The end result of this unwavering dedication is seen in super intelligent, streamlined appliances, which are, at once, as user-friendly as they are tech-savvy.

The Generation 6000 series is no exception to this philosophy. These latest gadgets allow homeowners to discover and delve into the delights of dining with new genera-

tion convection ovens, steam ovens, combination steam ovens, coffee machines, microwave ovens, and gourmet warming drawers. The latest MoisturePlus and MultiSteam technologies make for highly improved cooking techniques and shortened cooking time, resulting in perfectly cooked food without sacrificing essential nutrients, color and texture.

With every generation, Miele appliances just keep getting better and. It comes as no surprise to learn that these gadgets are favored by both pros and newbies in the kitchen, the world over.

Culinary skills, simplified To demonstrate just how easy and efficient the cooking process can be using Miele’s newest gadgets, guru of Italian cuisine, Margarita Fores, was on hand for a mini-cooking lesson.

Fores taught those in attendance how to whip up mouthwatering Italian dishes, such as roast chicken with lemons in the belly, which she popped into the Miele oven after seasoning, stuffing, and stitching up the large bird. The oven’s revolutionary sear function eliminates the whole pre-heating process, thereby cutting the cooking time and allowing you to bring your perfectly roasted chicken from oven to table, pronto!

While the chicken was roasting, filling the room up with a mouthwatering aroma, Fores grilled some bread for an appetizing round of

by ANGIE DUARTE

bruschetta topped with cubed fresh tomatoes and basil. An antipasto of perfectly sautéed red and yellow peppers with crushed anchovies followed.

A simple and flavorful pasta dish with a light citrus cream sauce proved a delectable pairing for the roast chicken, which was served with moist steamed Adlay or Chinese barley. The meal – which was done in less than one hour - was divine, and Fores barely broke out a sweat with the convenience afforded by Miele’s machinery.

The demo was a palatable union of culinary expertise and flawless functionality, which made for a masterfully prepared Italian feast.

Hi-tech, without the trepidation Perhaps among the best features of Miele appliances is just how easy they are to use; “Design for Life,” as the brand’s tag-line succinctly states. A mere touch of a button or swipe on a screen – thanks to the M Touch intuitive user interface system – gets the gadgets going. Integral to the very core of the company’s drive for excellence is the quest for greater efficiency and ever-improving user experience. Miele aims to anticipate the needs of its customers, quite possibly even before they give voice to these.

Plus, all the gadgets and appliances can be seamlessly streamlined upon installation; which not only makes for a great space-saving strategy, but also for a cleaner, more cohesive look for your home.

No matter you level of cooking expertise (or lack thereof, Miele makes cooking way more enjoyable and decidedly more exciting!

Miele domestic appliances are exclusively distributed by Focus Global, Inc. For more information, visit www.focusglobalinc.com

7

E X P AT N E W S P A P E R

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

G RU B H U B

RELIK Restaurant and Bar: Reimagined, Reinvented, Reborn

by CHING DEE

F

rom the dimly lit, swanky “it” bar and lounge where yuppies converge for drinks and good ol’ bar chow, Relik recently treated loyal clients and members of the media to a legendary feast when it officially launched their new and improved interiors and delicious new additions to their already winning menu.

Expat sat down with two of the ten minds behind Relik, Timo Roxas Chua and Benjo Tuason, to know more about the reinvention of one of Bonifacio Global City’s hottest spots.

“We figured it’s about time for some change,” Chua tells Expat. “We’ve been around for four years and it seems more and more people are leaning towards our lunch and dinner menu, so we want to cater to that crowd.”

A seasoned chef and restaurateur, Tuason is the culinary genius behind Relik’s classic bestsellers and new offerings.

“We’re still offering our classics like chorizig and nachos, but we want to highlight our new offers, like the slow roasted beef belly and house fried chicken,” Tuason says.

As their staff brought one dish after another to our table, it was easy to see—and taste— how this humble spot by the second floor parking lot became the go-to place to relax after a long day—or night—at work.

First off, a plate of Relik’s nachos was served. Everything—including the nacho chips—was made from scratch. You can actually taste the love in every bite.

Next, a trio of Relik’s bestselling appetizers was brought to our table: Gambas (shrimps flown fresh from Negros and marinated in Relik’s own chili blend before being sautéed in garlic and butter), Beef Salpicao (marinated beef, juicy and tender, sautéed with mush-

rooms and garlic), and their signature dish Chorizig (mouth-watering sisig topped with crispy chorizo bits—it is practically porcine heaven on a plate).

The main course was composed of three new dishes courtesy of Chef Benjo: Grilled Salmon with parmesan mashed potatoes, farm-fresh buttered vegetables, and citruscaper butter sauce; House Fried Chicken served with honey barbecue sauce (and no, it’s not your average gravy—it’s about a thousand times better), corn and carrots, and garlic rice; and the Slow Roasted Beef belly with mushroom pepper gravy and sweet potato mash.

When asked where he gets his inspiration for his culinary creations, Chef Benjo simply says, “It comes naturally.”

He continues, “Sometimes, I’m walking down the street and out of nowhere an idea for a new dish comes. I just store it in my mind until I get to the kitchen to experiment.”

For Relik’s new additions, Chua shared how they narrowed down the list and decided which ones will make it to the new menu.

“We gathered our top 20 guests and loyal customers through the ZAP app,” Chua said.

“The menu planning itself took about two weeks. Then for one month, we tested our new dishes with our loyal customers. We took their feedback to heart and found out which dishes worked and what doesn’t.”

“In the end, we came up with a line-up of something that might be considered as elevated comfort food—thanks to the help of our friends and customers,” Chua added.

Our bellies were already full, but this writer’s motto in life isn’t “There’s always room for dessert” for nothing.

As a sweet and nostalgic end to the al-

ready unforgettable meal, guests were served their new dessert: Milo Dinosaur Cheesecake.

“Cooking is my life,” Chef Benjo tells Expat. “I couldn’t imagine anything else.” And it is this passion that brings new life to Relik—reimagined, reinvented, reborn.

Relik Restaurant and Bar is located at the 2nd floor, CommerCenter Building, 31st Street corner 4th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

For inquiries and reservations, please call (0917) 529-8333, or check them out on Facebook (www.fb.com/relikmanila) or Instagram (@relik_manila).

Fire and Ice, and Everything Nice: Thanksgiving with Sub-Zero and Wolf

by ANGIE DUARTE

Chef Myrna Segismundo whips up a Thanksgiving feast, ala-Pinoy, with top-of-the-line tech from Sub-Zero and Wolf! ing a mouthwatering Thanksgiving turkey. “No strikes, no days-off, no absences,” she jokingly added.The much-lauded culinary whiz had been invited to prepare a Thanksgiving feast imbued with her signature flair for innovative and impeccable Filipino cuisine in honor of the 70th anniversary of acclaimed maker of refrigerators and luxury kitchen appliances, Sub-Zero and Wolf. On the menu for the “Fire and Ice ”-themed (an homage to ovens and refrigerators) event celebrated the day before Thanksgiving: good-old American classics – like turkey and baked pumpkin – with a Filipino touch, and some entirely unique additions – such as fruited Taniguige (Mackarel) kinilaw – to the favorite staple dishes.

No-fuss feast To open up the appetite, Chef Myrna served light and refreshing fruited Tanguige kinilaw. “Please All smiles with her perfectly cooked Thanksgiving Turkey, which is yet to be do not call it ceviche! It’s kinilaw infused with local, Filipino flavors – it’s Filipino, let’s own the dish,” she said about the tasty and tangy f you can’t afford to hire a chef and destarter dish of filleted mackerel, washed and pend on his or her skills, you might want cooked in coconut vinegar and citric acid, to invest in a good piece of equipment like and served with sliced seasonal fruit. She was this,” renowned chef Myrna Segismundo said, happy about the convenience afforded by the in reference to the Wolf Convection Steam Sub-Zero refrigerator, with its remarkable NaOven from the E-Series, in which she was roast-

I

notechnology, which allowed her to prepare portions of the kinilaw beforehand with no qualms about maintaining the freshness of the dish.

As the turkey roasted in the oven, Chef Myrna animatedly spoke of her many culinary adventures; both in the Philippines and overseas. She also raved about Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, and the fact that while a good-sized butterball turkey normally takes anywhere from three to five hours to roast in a regular oven, the newest convection steam technology from Wolf drastically reduces cooking time to less than two hours (around 1.5, to be more accurate). Incredulously, she pulled the perfectly browned bird out of the oven, confessing to all that she had brought her own pre-cooked turkey, as a fallback; having initially doubted the promise of a much shorter, no-fuss roasting time. Chef Myrna likewise gushed about the ease with which the oven can be programmed with just the touch of a button or two. Talk about functionality AND convenience!

Many Thanksgiving turkeys have suffered the cruel fate of being roasted to the point of desert dryness, but not this one. As Chef Myrna carved away, natural juices and oils oozed from the succulent, tender meat. “That’s because of the steam function,” Chef Myrna explained. “It counteracts the dry heat in the oven.”

Mouthwatering, heartwarming eats The turkey was paired with a smooth and rich fresh guava sauce made from chopped na-

tive guavas sautéed with onion and garlic, before being mixed with demi-glace and guava jelly. “The trend these days is no longer about the different cuisines, per se, but about highlighting the specific ingredients,” Chef Myrna explained. This local twist to the usual gravy and cranberry condiments worked wonderfully with the turkey; the natural sweetness of the fruit delightfully complementing the savory meat and making the dish all the more festive. A hearty and healthy helping of super flavorful broccoli and cauliflower “rice” with chopped chorizos, and a side of creamy baked pumpkin sealed the delectable deal.

A crown of pork – rubbed with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt and pepper and then roasted and broiled n the Wolf Oven until the meat just about fell off the bone – was a sumptuous indulgence; what with bellies already full from the meal. To top off the mouthwatering and heartwarming spread, Chef Myrna skillfully and effortlessly whipped up a divine dessert of crepes flambé with bananas and vanilla gelato. Truly a toothsome treat!

The afternoon was over all too soon.

Guests took home gifts from Sub-Zero and Wolf, as well as booklets with recipes for each of Chef Myrna’s tasty Thanksgiving treats, and delicious memories of fire and ice, and everything nice.

Sub-Zero and Wolf are exclusively distributed in the Philippines by Focus Global, Inc.

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E X P AT N E W S P A P E R

A DV E N T U R E S

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

St. Marc's Chapel designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin Photo courtesy of Julia Sumanguil (Creative Commons License)

Not Your Typical Laguna A new weekend itinerary to explore South of Manila

L

aguna has been one of the go-to places when people from the metro want a quick escape from the hellish traffic and burning heat of the city. Just two to three hours away lies one the country’s most popular tourist destination for city dwellers.

But this article isn’t about your usual Rizal Shrine or Pagsanjan Falls, it’s not about your typical seven lakes tour or hot springs either.

Here are three new spots to visit in Laguna on a weekend getaway that will surely make you want to come back for more.

Trek to the National Arts Center I know, I know—trekking isn’t exactly the most relaxing thing to do, but for some travelers, it’s as therapeutic as a visit to the spa.

Los Baños is more than just the University of the Philippines campus or Mt. Makiling’s Peak 2. Another spot to visit is the National Arts Center (NAC).

Apart from the panoramic view of Los Baños and part of Laguna de Bay, and the equally scenic trek upwards, the NAC compound is a sight to behold. There’s the Tanghalang Maria Makiling (an open-air theater for ceremonies and performances), St. Marc’s Chapel—designed by none other than National Artist for Architecture Leandro Locsin, and the Philippine High School for the Arts.

by CHING DEE

Heritage trip to Pila plaza.

Just a quick drive from Pila’s heritage status also encourCalamba City is the sleepy town o f P i l a , ages business establishments make sure Laguna. This quaint their exteriors blend into the ancestral attown of about mosphere.

43,000 people Meanwhile, at the center of is one of the the town is San Antonio de four PhilipPadua Church. It is the pine towns very first church in the to receive country dedicated the Nato St. Anthony of tional Padua. In July Historical 2002, it was Landmark renamed to status back the Diocein 2000. san Shrine It is just a of St. Ansight to behold. thony.

The entire area Pila is around the plaza best ex(where the church plored on and the municipal hall foot, so are located) is filled with make sure ancestral houses perfectly you wear restored and preserved, some of comfortable El Panchito's Mexican BBQ Ribs which even welcome visitors for a tour clothing and footaround the ancestral home with matching wear. The locals are imwarm pan de sal and hot tsokolate-eh (thick mensely helpful, too, so if you happen to take hot chocolate drink) made from real tablea a wrong turn, no need to worry. Just flash your to be enjoyed by the azotea overlooking the best smile and ask for directions.

Pro-Tip: For best photos, try to catch the “golden hour” before the sun complete sets and it casts this golden glow upon the town, illuminating the houses and playing with shadows.

El Panchito's "keso-dilla"

Fil-Mex fusion in Pagsanjan What is a trip to Laguna without great food? And while it is mandatory to get your fix of buko pie when in Laguna (“Buko pie or it didn’t happen!”), here’s a new spot for you to check out. In fact, they only opened in October.

El Panchito’s is a fusion restaurant offering the best of Mexican fare tailored to suit the Filipino palate. It is the brainchild of husbandand-wife team Kit and Jymsee Zaguirre, the grandson of the woman behind the iconic Aling Taleng’s Halo-Halo of Pagsanjan. Restaurateur and chef Michael Zaguirre (of Locavore and FAT fame) helped the couple build and improve their stellar menu.

“We really like Mexican food, but even though there are a lot of food establishments in Pagsanjan, none of them offered Mexican fare so we thought, why not be the first one?”

Kit told Expat.

“We are proud to say all our menu items

E X P AT N E W S P A P E R

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

have proven to be hits, but our real best sellers are our Nachos Bravas, Mexican BBQ Ribs, Sisig, and our soft tacos. Our soft tacos in particular are different from what most of our customers are used to, but once they try it, they keep coming back for more,” Kit shared. And this writer could attest to the accuracy of her statement.

We would definitely come back for more of their fully loaded sisig tacos—juicy, tangy, and oh-so-flavorful! Every bite is a celebration of the marriage of this Pinoy pulutan (bar chow) staple and Mexico’s soft taco goodness.

Another must-try is their Mexican BBQ Ribs. Tender and almost flaking off the bone--well, cartilage—make sure you order another serving of their Mexican “dirty rice.”

Consider this as a warning for those who are trying to lessen the carb intake—El Panchito’s Mexican BBQ Ribs are so moreish, it is impossible to resist. Just use the meat as an excuse (“I’m eating a lot of protein for muscle building…”).

For a sweet cap to finish your Fil-Mex experience, try their churros. Fluffy on the inside and crispy outside, it’s just the right amount

Bambungan River

Well preserved heritage houses in Pila, Laguna

A DV E N T U R E S

9 Aling Taleng's interiors - busy with locals & tourists

Aling Taleng's famous halo-halo

of sweetness to be dipped into their chocolate sauce.

Another dessert option is Aling Taleng’s halo-halo, which has been in business since 1933. This writer still believes Anthony Bourdain should come back to the Philippines to try this halo-halo, I’m just worried it’ll blow his mind.

The sweetened kundol and tubo are golden cubes of sugary goodness. It is simply unparalleled. I would drive back to Pagsanjan just for another serving of Aling Taleng’s halo-halo.

No wonder they’ve been around for 82 years!

“The most challenging part for us so far is still having to adjust our menu to our customers' tastes and demands,” Kit shared. “But the best thing about our business is having the two of us work as a team—one manning the front, taking care of the customers' needs, and the other taking command of the kitchen.

At the end of each day, we have so many stories and anecdotes to tell each other and we enjoy the experience so much.”

El Panchito’s Fil-Mex restaurant is located at 661 Mabini Street, Pagsanjan, Laguna. They are open Monday to Sunday, 11am to 10pm. For more infor-

mation, check them out on Facebook (www.facebook.com/elpanchitospagsanjan) or Instagram (@elpanchitospagsanjan).

El Panchito's fully loaded sisig taco

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E X P AT N E W S P A P E R

EVENTS

Feting of Peace and Sovereignty

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

by VIA BAROMA

A look back at the last Turkey National Day

A

commemorative reception held at Raffles and Fairmont Hotel on Oct. 29 highlighted a joyous event—the 92nd Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic of Turkey.

Guests from the various departments of the national government, diplomatic and consular corps, and a number of the Turkish Embassy’s friends came to take part in the festivities and to honor the milestone, as well as the recent achievements of Turkey.

In her address, Turkish Ambassador Esra Cankorur reminded the guests about the principle of maintaining and promoting “peace at home, peace in the world,” which continues to guide the foreign policies of Turkey.

“The Turkish Republic was founded 1923 with great sacrifices of my countrymen and women under the reign of leadership of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, taking this opportunity, I would like to honor and cherish their memories since their sacrifices are not and shall not be forgotten,” said Ambassador Cankorur.

The Ambassador also highlighted the

commitment to further and diversify TurkishFilipino cooperation by expanding the Turkish Embassy with two new offices this year following the announcement of daily direct flights between Istanbul and Manila starting next year.

"We are hopeful that with direct flights connecting to the two countries, as well as the electronic visa facility introduce last year, tourism, trade and people-to-people contacts will further increase," the Ambassador said.

The presence of DFA Undersecretary Evan P. Garcia as the guest of honor gave the event more meaning, particularly when he said in his remarks that there is tremendous potential for further growth of the bilateral relations of the two countries.

"We should consider one another as one another's bridges to our respective regions," he added.

The speeches were followed by a ceremonial toast onstage by Ambassador Cankorur, joined by Undersecretary Garcia and Apostolic Nuncio Giuseppe Pinto.

(Rightmost) Turkey Ambassador Esra Cankorur together with officials of Turkey Embassy

Apostolic Nuncio Giuseppe Pinto, Turkey Ambassador Esra Cankorur, and Cambodia Ambassador Tuot Panha, Mexico Ambassador Julio Camarena Villaseñor, Mme. Ana Maria Romandetto, Korean Portugal Consul Tony Rufino, Monaco Consul Fortune Ledesma and Ivory Coast Consul Vince DFA Undersecretary Evan P. Garcia.

Ambassador Kim Jae-Shin, and Papua New Guinea Ambassador Christian Vihruri Carlos

Austria Consul General Washington Sycip and former Speaker of VP Enrique Chan of A.C. Steel Industries, Inc; Managing Director David Batchelor of Fairmont_Raffles Ms. Beng Dee and Ms. Anna Sobrepenâa Makati and Mrs. Batchelor, and Executive Director Chairperson Teresa Chan of 1Meal Program the House of Representative Jose de Venecia, Jr.

Egypt Ambassador Mahmoud Mostafa Ahmed and Apostolic Nuncio Giuseppe Pinto

Italian Amb. Massimo Roscigno, Netherland Amb. Marion Derckx, Mexico Amb. Julio Camarena Villasenâor, Mme. Ana Maria Romandetto, Mme. Former Sec. of Foreign Affairs Delia Domingo Albert, Mme. Irene Reeder, Canadian Amb. Neil Reeder, Monaco Consul Fortune Ledesma, and Togo Consul Evie Costa Monthip Upatising and Thailand Amb. Thanatip Upatising

11

E X P AT N E W S P A P E R

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

F E AT U R E S

Christmas in Tagaytay The Christmas season has officially started in Tagaytay City with the lighting of the Christmas tree and display area at the breathtaking Swiss-inspired Crosswinds luxury resort. The tree lighting starts Brittany Corporation’s annual corporate tradition of welcoming everyone to the elegant community blessed with the fresh scent of over 23,000 lush pine trees that provides the perfect Christmas ambience. Guests enjoyed a Saturday afternoon musical with performances by 2015 WCOPA Division Champion for Opera Princess Virtudazo, 2015 WCOPA finalist Jet Barun and 2015 WCOPA Grand Champion Vocal Group of the World Y-Fi: Young Filipinos, made more festive by food trucks, a jolly Santa Claus, and fireworks display. A project of Brittany Corporation, the country’s leading developer of luxury homes in master-planned communities, Crosswinds is very popular as the go-to destination where everyone can celebrate Christmas every day with its scenic slopes and lush green trees. Check www.crosswinds.com.ph or www.brittany.com.ph for more information.

Brittany Corporation’s brand management coordinators Valerie Divinagracia and Carla Brittany Corporation’s marketing coordinator Michelle Bilan, Digital marketing head Chary Francisco, marketing coordinator Carmina Panotes, project head Abbe Gardiola, technical head Erwin Mosura, brand management head Michelle Balmadrid-Barrientos, general manager Roy Fernandez, Crosswinds marketing head Kitto Jacinto, customer relation management head Jefferson Menil, and Santa Claus Cadiz

Asi Bornea, Shel Apos and Ross Del Rosario

Kitto Jacinto, Abbe Gardiola and Carmina Panotes

Brittany Corporation’s Portofino project architect Kenneth Yap with Recruitment & Training team lead Lea Bulatao, training coordinator Aly Salvo, and Crosswinds project architect Kristian Islanan

Brittany Corporation’s accounting team lead Anna Espares, accounting officers Jeensan Tolentino and Monica and Tatiano Punzalan with Santa Claus Dianne Real with Crosswinds events supervisor Brian Bautista and Kitto Jacinto

2015 WCOPA grand champion Vocal Group of the World, Y-Fi: Young Filipinos

Ram Alba, Aly Salvo, Valerie Divinagracia, and Beau Casaus

Abner del Barrio with baby Abigail, Rowena Lasandra, and Santa Claus

Mobile: +63917-502 22 55

12

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DR. JONATHAN RUSSEL KELLER

PALM VILLAGE

MAYUMI BEACH HOUSE

Anita Bldg., G/F Quezon

351-6041/ 425-0005 Angeles City (045) 625-

or call Ghie @ 8135862,09218337728, 09278383542

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MIRAJ EMPLOYMENT SERVICES PRPA License M14000046 with experience & complete documents we deploy good: maid ya2 cuk or int'l cuk c-giver nurse driver boy 750-4310 / 831-5926 / 0930-4799414

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Friendship corner Angeles

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COMMUNION CHURCHES Wednesday – 12:15p.m.

Ministries for Youth

UNION CHURCH OF Sr. High & Int’l. Young Adults Rada corner Legaspi St., Makati City

www.unionchurch.ph 812-6062; 812-5609

Sermons available online

MANILA Welcomes You INTERNATIONAL INTERDENOMINATIONAL EVANGELICAL WORSHIP SERVICES: 8:30a.m. – Contemporary 10:30a.m. – Traditional 12:30p.m. – Contemporary with communion

SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES 8:30a.m. 10:30a.m. 12:30p.m.

COMMUNION Wednesday – 12:15p.m.

Ministries for Youth Sr. High & Int’l. Young Adults Rada corner Legaspi St., Makati City

www.unionchurch.ph 812-6062; 812-5609

Sermons available online

13

E X P AT N E W S P A P E R

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

ARTS & CULTURE

Compiled by VIA BAROMA

VISUAL ARTS

Ongoing until Dec. 28 Art Informal, 277 Connecticut Street, Greenhills East, Mandaluyong City; for more information, call (02) 725-8518.

Idylis by Salvador Joel Alonday Art Informal, Main Gallery

This exhibit entitled “Idylis” is an installation of recent works in stoneware

by Salvador Joel Alonday. Alonday received his bachelor’s degree from the College of Music and Fine Arts at the Philippine Women’s University in 1985. Thereafter, he taught art and design fundamentals and theories for five years while practicing his profession as an industrial designer. It was during this time that he became a member of the art group Hulo; churning out mixed media works, installations and sculptures done in wood, cast resin and papier mache or "taka." Alonday later abandoned his design profession and made a commitment to sculpture with his first solo exhibition at the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 1994, featuring assemblages with carvings in wood and cast concrete and resin. He has since exhibited his works at the National Museum, Metropolitan Museum and prominent galleries in the Philippines and in some major cities of South East Asia and Japan. He is one of the founders of Art Informal where he continues to explore forms, materials and processes with his fellow students of Sculpture.

Rebuilding Blocks Art Informal, The Big Room It is often said that artists have the ability to see things, which nobody else notices. It is partly true but a more accurate description would be that artists perceive something engaging or inquisitive in things that are visible to everyone but usually ignored like an ordinary urinal, or a composite of a bicycle seat and handlebars, or in the case of Jose Santos III, a heap of rubble.

In his exhibit titled “Rebuilding Blocks,” the artist displays this propensity of noticing value in rather unnoticeable objects through the process of casting. By transforming and presenting each individual rock into objects that show the material in all its rawness, he reconstructs such everyday objects into unabated curiosities. This change in perception results in a suspension of judgment, conclusion and recall.

The artist's inclination to shift perspective to gain new appreciation is evident not only in his choice of subject but also applies to how he showcases his work. The piece was part of his solo show back in 2014.

For this exhibit, the artist decided to present the work in a different configuration. This maneuver not only displays how the artist's mind operates, it also suggests that the work need not be seen in only one way and that there are no fixed meanings. The idea of highlighting a cycle of change in an everyday object is the very essence of the whole process of “rebuilding”.

Mythamporphosis Art Informal, The Inner Room The solo exhibit is a meditation on mythology, nostalgia and transformation.

This current series draws from the visceral strains of Ted Hughes’ rendering of Ovid’s tales, transposing the darker pastoral and depth of the psyche in the realm of fragile glass.

The artist’s vision is poured onto the natural and metaphysical world, with creatures and portraits, images of the surreal and self, waiting on darkened plates through the wet plate collodion process.

Wet plate collodion is an alternative and intensive 19th century development technique that involves painstaking attention to detail, the alchemy of volatile

substances, and the inimitable portrayal of subjects in vivid detail with an ethereal feel.

Through collodion, the photograph is not taken, but given to the artist and audience through interplay of chance and skill, and the serendipitous dance of light and time.

Both Raena Abella’s narratives and her unique craft mirror the process of growth, where the viscerally potent becomes the hauntingly sublime.

Open Space Dec. 18 until Jan. 8 at 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Nova Gallery Manila, Warehouse 12A La Fuerza Compound, 2241 Chino Roces Ave., Makati; for more information, call (02) 392-7797 or email at info@novagallerymanila.com.

Most of the time, we create a space inside our minds that involuntarily forms different worlds that drift us away from reality. Some people use this space to escape and to be free. Others visualize it as a playground where they can fulfill their dreams and fantasy. Focusing on the present is for the norm, however each of us has our own ideal fantasies that open the windows of our mind. It rekindles our past and it remakes our future. Every fantasy emerges within us to be part of a different state.

“Open Space" is a group exhibition composed of 14 artists namely Mr. S, Pat Frades, Jasper Albay, Jeff Baligad, Miggy Crisostomo, AADA, Lougee, Tyang, Rai Cruz, Quatro, Dr. Karayom, Blic, Yeng Cruz and Humbly. The artists developed their own fantasy with the use of different mediums such as oil, acrylic and watercolor. Each piece represents scenes from experiences and preferences that will connect through our audience.

Artspeak: Veronica Peralejo, IC Jaucian, Derek Tumala Ateneo Art Gallery, Ground Floor, Rizal Library, University Rd, Diliman, Quezon City; for more information, call (02) 4266488 or email aag@ateneo.edu.

The 2015 Ateneo Art Awards shortlisted exhibitions featured several artists that drew inspiration from science-based images, imaginings and mathematical concepts.

Veronica Pee (Peralejo) is inspired by image of parasites and cells seen through a microscope. In her exhibition, “Pocket Universe,” she takes the audience into the

world of micro-organisms, through her delicate miniature drawings of galaxies of bizarre planets and clay on eggshell sculptures resembling creatures at the bottom of the sea. Echoing this fascination with nature is Derek Tumala who uses technology to investigate the realm of science and the spiritual. Through his mapped projections, he investigates Sacred Geometry—a concept that has guided the design of religious buildings based on the forms and patterns occurring in nature. Ian Carlo Jaucian likewise is driven by a desire to make tangible through sight, sound and experience, the scientific ideas he is fascinated by. In his paintings and kinetic sculpture for the exhibit “In the Year 2000,” he presents us with a vision of a humanity so advanced that it can control plants robotically and time travel yet so infantile that it is unable to use this knowledge to solve our greatest problems: poverty and pollution.

THEATER

7th Harana sa Dapit Hapon at CCP Dec. 16 at CCP Main Theater Lobby, CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City; for more information, call (02) 832-1125 local 1600 or 832-2314.

The Cultural Center of the Philippines and Tribung Pilipino Foundation headed

by Danny Dolor presents the seventh performance of Harana sa Dapit Hapon on December 16, 2015 at the Bulwagang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater Lobby) at 4:30 p.m.

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Singers is the featured performing group in the event.

Harana sa Dapit Hapon is an afternoon musicale featuring immortal kundimans, harana, balitaw, danza and unforgettable love songs by great Filipino composers. The event is free to the public. Senior citizens, students and the general public are cordially invited.

14

E X P AT N E W S P A P E R

IN FOCUS

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

Journey to the Luxurious Little Mountain in the South of Manila

by ANGIE DUARTE

Tagaytay’s brand new Hotel Monticello redefines the boutique hotel experience.

T

he City of Tagaytay - what’s not to like about it? With its temperate (often on the cooler side, as cool as it gets in the Philippines) climate, mountainous terrain, picturesque views of Taal Volcano, verdant scenery, and – in recent years – proliferation of highly conceptual and delicious food establishments, the Summer Capital of the South is definitely a favorite vacation spot of both locals and foreigners alike. Best of all, perhaps, this not-so-rugged retreat destination is merely 55 kilometers from the capital city of Manila. The road trip takes under two hours, barring traffic and assuming one does not make multiple stops along the way. Tagaytay’s proximity to the Metro makes it the perfect place for a weekend escape with the family, or even for a quick personal getaway to refresh nerves frazzled by urban chaos.

Add to the ever-growing list of things to like about Tagaytay: Hotel Monticello (Italian for “little mountain”), a brand-new luxury highland hideaway along Tagaytay Ridge, centrally located from all of the city’s popular attractions.

Not your ordinary boutique hotel Hotel Monticello opened its doors to Tagaytay-goers in April 2015, and had its grand launch in November of the same year. With a room count of not even 50 rooms (41, to be exact) the hotel falls within the boutique category. However, it is easy to forget that you are in a smaller establishment: from the expansive lobby, flanked by grand staircases on either side, to the high ceiling with its impressive skylight, to large function rooms, and overall generous common areas on each of FIVE floors, and – lest we forget – three spacious elevators servicing these floors, the hotel has the feel of luxury you would expect from a much larger chain. This is not your ordinary boutique hotel; this is the boutique hotel that dared to dream big.

“I was only thinking of a small seven-door facility, with a small function room, but the Chief Designer, along with my father, blew it up, really! Our Chief Designer went all out with it,” Eduardo Valdez, Monticello’s amiable and driven general manager said, lightheartedly. Dondi, as he prefers to be called, shared this in reference to his mother, Mrs. Felisa S. Valdez, the hotel’s CEO and point person for all aesthetic and design concerns.

a gym, which – although on the smaller side – has all the essentials for a complete workout. If a leisurely massage is your thing (and who can resist a leisurely massage?), then yield to the expert touch of Hotel Monticello’s masseuses.

Those looking to celebrate their milestones and special events need look no further. The hotel has several function rooms (named for Mrs. Valdez’ granddaughters, Annika, Bianca, and Vivienne) as well as the VIA Grand Ballroom.

The more outdoorsy set may opt to hold their functions at Monticello’s well-kept, breezy Soleil Gardens.

“Mrs. Valdez is a real trouper, and the driving force behind all this. Everything you see here, she has envisioned in her mind,” Dondi added.

“That’s an overstatement.” Felisa – Nini, to friends – playfully retorted to her son’s remark, as she went on to share that her love for Italy (where she and the entire family celebrated her and hubby Ambrosio’s 45th wedding anniversary) is reflected in the name of the hotel, as well as in the names of the penthouses and the different outlets.

Overstatement or otherwise, the labors of love are evident in the family-run hotel’s pulledtogether charm. At the helm of the business are the Valdez, Dumlao and Gatmaitan families, ably assisted by the Paramount Hotel Management Group, and Monticello’s hardworking,

hospitable team.

Living it luxe While there is a plethora of quaint bed-andbreakfasts and boutique hotels across Tagaytay, Hotel Monticello is the perfect place for those who want to live it luxe while still enjoying the privacy and personal touch afforded by a more intimately-sized venue.

The luxe experience begins even before checking in to your well-appointed room, as you take a deep breath of Hotel Monticello’s signature scent which wafts throughout the entire establishment. A leisurely stroll on the grounds takes you to a 25-meter temperature controlled adult swimming pool, with a smaller and warmer kiddie pool off to the side. Fitness buffs will be happy to learn that the hotel is equipped with

Dining, delightfully!

Over the last few years, the city of Tagaytay has burgeoned into a foodie’s haven; what will all the coffee shops, all-day breakfast eateries, fine-dining restaurants, grill houses and more that have sprouted throughout the locale. Hotel Montecillo lives up to the delicious standard, with its very own unique culinary offerings, as created by no less than Chef JR Royol, the first winner of “MasterChef ” Pinoy Edition.

Whether you choose to sample a dish from the east-meets-west menu, or indulge in the buffet, calories are not the consideration, and are every bit well worth the indulgence (besides, you can always hit the gym!) Definitely something to look forward to is the upcoming introduction of Chef JR’s “Bigorot”-inspired cuisine; a journey into indigenous Filipino cooking from both the Bicolano and Igorot heritage.

Meals may be enjoyed at Café Mercedes (for all-day dining), Roma Piano Bar, at the poolside Trattoria Maria, or in the comfort of your own room.

Dreaming big(ger) Only half a year since it’s opening, Hotel Monticello’s owners are already dreaming of expansion. The Chief Designer has even bigger dreams for her little mountain, and there is talk of purchasing more land for added amenities, as well as for the hotel’s very own mini farm and vegetable garden.

Meantime, the clientele continues to grow, as people discover this luxe and lovely southern sanctuary.

For more information about Hotel Monticello, please visit www.hotelmonticello.com.ph

15

E X P AT N E W S P A P E R

F E AT U R E S

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

What’s on @ Hotels Compiled by VIA BAROMA

Shangri-la’s Mactan Resort & Spa Cebu’s Yuletide Feasts

As the yuletide season draws nearer, a wave of merriment cascades through the halls of Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu. Guests are in for a treat the moment they step inside, as the Lobby Lounge serves the season’s rendition of its well-loved High Tea. Here, guests get to pair their choice of premium tea with a serving of yuletide-themed savory snacks,

canapés, shortbreads, pralines and more. The Christmas High Tea is a sweet start to the festivity, as it will be available beginning Dec. 1.

Come Christmas Day, guests can choose from a whirlwind of flavors at the resort’s restaurants, such as the seafood masterpieces at Cowrie Cove, the modern Italian fare at Acqua, and the intercontinental variety at Tides.

The restaurant’s seaside al fresco restaurant, Cowrie Cove, will let guests ring in Christmas Day with a panoramic view of the scenic Mactan Channel. The restaurant will offer a four-course set dinner of seafood masterpieces made from the freshest catch. Cowrie Cove’s Christmas Eve and Christmas Day set dinner menus served with a glass of champagne are at PhP2,500++ per person. The dining experience is made more festive with tunes by the resort’s resident DJ. At Acqua, guests will dine with flair and gusto as they indulge in a set menu of Italy’s finest. An antipasti buffet will highlight the restaurant’s Christmas Eve spread.

Acqua’s four-course Christmas Eve and Christmas Day set dinner menus are priced at PhP2,100++ per person and comes with a glass of prosecco, while its turkeybased set lunch for Christmas Day is at PhP1,800++ per person.

An indulgent feast awaits guests at Tides this Christmas. The restaurant will delight guests with its variety of options, including a carving station, a miniature buffet counter for kids with their all-time favorites and a dessert station offering mouthwatering yuletide-themed pieces. On top of such deliciousness, guests will feel enchanted as a choir serenades them with the season’s melodies.

Tides’ Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinner buffets are at PhP2,250++ per person and come with free-flowing red and white wine.

On Christmas Day, the restaurant’s famous fun lunch—also known as Funch—will be available at PhP1,750++ per person.

For more information and reservations, please contact a travel professional or visit www.shangrila.com.

Holiday Feasts at Jen Hotel

Gather round with family and friends at Jen Hotel’s Latitude or Kitsho Restaurant and relive your Christmas stories over our sumptuous and lavishing dishes.

This special holiday offer is available at Latitude Restaurant until Jan. 3 for only PhP1,088 nett per person for lunch and PhP1,188 nett per person for dinner. Buffet rates on Dec. 24, 25, 31, 2015 and Jan.1, will be PhP1,188 nett and PhP1,288 nett for lunch and dinner

respectively.

For Japanese cravings, Kitsho is very excited to welcome you on Dec. 24 and 31 with a buffet rate of PhP1,188 nett per person on lunch and PhP1,288 nett per person for dinner.

Excited for 2016? Then bring that positive vibe with you at their Club Lounge or Lobby Lounge as Jen Hotel promises to ring in the New Year in style. If you opt for the former, you’ll get in for PHP1,800 nett per person. As for the latter, for only PhP688 nett per person,

you are entitled to two standard drinks and a band performance playing your favorite music while you scream “Happy New Year!”

For more information, call (02) 795-8888 or visit www.hoteljen.com/manila and www.facebook.com/hoteljenmanila for other updates and promotions.

SnL Dietary Supplement Secrets Revealed Did you know that the 1st Brand approved by FDA Philippines using Hoodia Gordonii is SNL Dietary Supplements?

Hoodia Gordonii alone is being used

by Hollywood celebrities to suppress their appetite. The other active ingredient of SNL dietary supplement are Glutanac for glowing skin and LCarnitine.

There are many choices for weight loss supplements, choosing the best can be a daunting task. There are also hundreds of weight loss products claiming to be the best. When choosing a weight loss supplement, it is important to ask yourself what you’re trying to accomplish.

Do you want to control your appetite? Do you need a fat burner? Or do you just need a supplement that helps build muscles? By knowing what you are looking for you will be able to narrow down your choices.

Appetite suppressants are among the widely used weight loss supplements.

There are two general categories of appetite suppressants and these are: pharmaceutical and natural appetite suppressants. Appetite suppressants works on

one principle, that is to curb the desire to eat. When you want to lose weight, it’s vital that you control your appetite.

Pharmaceutical appetite suppressants can either be bought over-the-counter or prescribed by a physician. These drugs are considered as obesity medication and

it’s approved by FDA, Meridia is an FDA approved appetite suppressant that is proven to produce weight loss by up to 15 percent of body weight. It works by affecting the neurotransmitters, serotonin and norepinephrine thus altering the appetite. Phentermine is another

pharmaceutical appetite suppressant that is found to be effective by helping obese people lose weight. But like Meridia, it has also been known to bring unpleasant side effects such as hallucinations, dry mouth and more.

Due to the unwanted side effects of pharmaceutical appetite suppressants, people are turning to natural appetite suppressants. Natural appetite suppressants make use of natural ingredients that has been clinically tested to suppress food cravings.

Hoodia appetite suppressants are one of the best weight loss supplements. It is made from Hoodia cactus that has been used for Centuries by South African tribesmen to ward off hunger and thirst. Unique Hoodia, Hoodia Gordonii Plus, and Hoodia Balance are recommended Hoodia supplements. Use SNL and lose weight!

This products is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease NO APPROVED THERAPEUTIC CLAIMS

16

E X P AT N E W S P A P E R

INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER

DECEMBER 6-19, 2015

With the Philippines just about six months away from the 2016 Presidential elections, campaign season is about to go on full swing. The Aquino administration, in spite of all the things Filipinos can point to as things that could have been done better, has put the country in a better position than it was in six years ago. While the supposed economic growth could’ve been more inclusive, the momentum the country has gained on several fronts is undeniable. With this, Expat asks, “Who will you be voting for President, and why?”

Clang Garcia Filipino Managing Director, Jeepney Tours

Michael Scheile German Chairman and Managing Director, Veltrup Technik Limited

Jomin Lea Cañeta Filipino Equity Research Philippines

At this point, I still don't have any decision whom to vote for. I still have to see a clear cut platform in prioritizing the following: (1) creating a refresher program and strong campaign on Filipino values and cultural heritage; (2) development and integration of "Information of Communications Technology" across all government offices to make the service more efficient, increase productivity rate, and to cut down on corruption practices; (3) Development program in support of SMEs; (4) To make tourism as a top national priority to alleviate poverty and reverse migration. Currently, it creates job for more than 4 million Filipinos and has generated a tourism receipt of US$ 4.8B from the 4.8 million tourist arrivals. Last year, we had a share of about 50 million domestic travelers; and (5) Precise and speedy program on the transportation system in Metro Manila and across the islands.

Most experienced and capable candidate is Mar Roxas. He is the best choice for the people and business (if he could only make a clear stand on the mining industry) continuing what President Aquino started. Second best choice would be Senator Grace Poe. Any other candidate would be a step back in the development of the Philippines and ruin the progress achieved.

I would vote for Miriam Defensor-Santiago.

She has exceptionally good credentials. She is an honest public official. I think the Philippines is in need of a leader like her, someone who will not tolerate corruption and who is not scared of her opponents as long as she is fighting for what is right and just.

Analyst,

FactSet

Zack Varkaris Greek Writer

The 2016 race is the most interesting in years, with different candidates and their varied core policies. Poe has transport, (so desperately needed in both the capital and other cities).

Duterte has strong civic duty and security.

Binay is the continuation of the last seven years of economic growth. However to me, it boils down to who can beat Binay. He ruled Makati for twenty years and would not leave.

Does anyone think that when he gets his hands on the ultimate prize he will relinquish it when the time comes? He has insidiously been campaigning in the provinces and towns of the Philippines for years sponsoring buses, basketball courts and fetes. For me, it has to be a candidate that gives back to the people and is not part of the corrupt establishment. So I vote for the mayor of Davao as the next president.

Have healthy, glowing skin in time for the Holidays

by IRENE GAILE ROBREDO-VITAS, MD

I

t’s almost that time of the year again when invitations to parties and reunions come left and right. Whether seeing old friends or meeting new ones, who wouldn’t want to look their best? With only a few days or weeks left, what is there to do?

Unfortunately, no treatment produces significant results overnight. New skin cells are produced, on the average, every 28 days and collagen repair and remodeling takes a month to three months. For those with four to six weeks to spare, there are still a number of things you can do.

Exfoliate Exfoliate regularly and properly. Exfoliation gets rid of the dull, lackluster “dead cells” layer of the skin to reveal youthful and glowing

Photo courtesy of Wallpix

“new” skin. It also allows for better penetration of products that you apply on your skin. You can exfoliate by getting a microdermabrasion or a chemical peel treatment once every two weeks from your trusted dermatologist.

No time to visit a dermatologist? Apply creams that contain alpha-hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid to gently exfoliate your skin.

One month on these and you will begin to see results.

Anti-aging products Other than sunscreen, which is a must in your anti-aging regimen, and alpha-hydroxy acids mentioned above, there are other products that deliver promising results. These are vitamin a derivatives, antioxidants, peptides and Vitamin C.

Vitamin A derivatives such as tretinoin and retinol are still considered the “gold standard” in anti-aging. They work by regulating skin turnover, reducing fine lines and delaying collagen degeneration. Antioxidants, such as Vitamin C, reduce inflammation, irritation, and appearance of age spots and prevent cell damage by free radicals from skin stressors (ex. UV rays). Peptides are amino acids that signal the skin to repair and renew. Keep in mind though that topical creams take more time to produce results.

Radiofrequency, laser and light treatments Radiofrequency (RF) sessions are helpful in contouring and tightening loose skin.

RF treatments work by delivering energy that heats the deeper skin tissues to contract and produce new collagen. RF is generally safe for all skin types and has no downtime, but a minimum of four sessions done once a week is needed to produce noticeable results.

Photo-facials with Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) reduce signs of aging by stimulating collagen and elastic production. It can also address concerns such as uneven pigmentation and broken capillaries. The treatment produces minimal discomfort and no downtime, but is not advisable to those with darker skin types.

This can be done once every two weeks and an average of four sessions is needed to see results.

‘QUICK’ fixes With about two weeks left, you may be able to fit in a facial or two, but for more dramatic results, two of the more common procedures to be done are botulinum toxin and soft tissue filler injections.

Botulinum toxin injections, more popularly known as botox, work by temporarily paralyzing your muscles to smoothen the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Common

Gaile C. Robredo-Vitas, MD is a board certified dermatologist practicing aesthetic and general dermatology. She received her college degree from the Ateneo de Manila University and finished medicine at the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center. She completed her three-year residency training at the Skin and Cancer Foundation Inc. and ranked eighth in the dermatology boards.

For questions, comments or suggestions please email Dr Gaile Robredo-Vitas at irenegaile@gmail.com areas of treatment include the area between your eyebrows, the corners of your eyes and the forehead. The effects are evident after five to seven days and last three to four months.

Soft tissue fillers, also called dermal fillers, are used to contour the face and fill in areas of volume loss to create a fuller, smoother more youthful appearance and to improve the appearance of scars. Most often they are injected on the mid face, lips and sometimes on the back of the hands. Fillers are most often made up of hyaluronic acid, while others contain calcium hydroxylapatite. The results instant but are temporary and last, on the average, for 12 months.

These two are medical procedures and should be done by a trained and certified medical professional. Temporary post-procedure side effects may include swelling, bruising and redness.

But whatever you decide to do, nothing beats a healthy lifestyle, proper diet, adequate sleep, genuine smile and a pleasing personality. Happy holidays everyone!