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February 21-March 5, 2016 Vol. XXXIV No. 10

A gorgeous view of Pacific Salt Farms Inc.’s 500-hectare salt farm in Bolinao, Pangasinan. The salt farm stands not only as one of the country’s largest producers of all things salt, it has helped elevate the lives of some 300 families who have worked for the company across four generations. To find out more about their products, visit www.salinas.com.ph. Photo by the talented Martin San Diego

US: ‘Now we have a Study: Air pollution claims green light’ on EDCA 5.5M lives annually worldwide “ A

Phl offers eight bases for US use ‘for mutual benefit’

By CHING DEE

By VIA BAROMA

new research, presented at the 2016 annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) last Feb. 14 to 15 in Washington, DC found that China and India, two of the world’s fastest-growing economies, account for 55 percent of yearly global deaths caused by air pollution.

Some 1.6 million people died of air pollution in China while 1.4 million died in India, both in 2013.

The data was compiled as an extension of the Global Burden of Disease project, an international collaboration led by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington that measured health and its risk factors, including air pollution levels, for 188 countries between 1990 and 2013.

The study says cardiovascular disease accounts for most of the deaths from air pollution, along with lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and respiratory infections.

According to the research, the main culprit is the emission of tiny particles from power and industrial plants, burning coal and wood, as well as cars and other vehicles that was released into thin air that can harm people’s heath.

“Air pollution is the fourth highest risk factor for death globally and by far the leading environmental risk factor for disease,” said Michael Brauer, a professor at the University of British Columbia’s School of Population and Public Health in Vancouver, Canada.

“Breathing in tiny liquid or solid particles can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, respiratory complaints and even cancer. And

while developed nations have made great strides in addressing this problem these sat few decades, the number of citizens dying as a result of poor air quality in developing countries is still climbing. Reducing air pollution is an incredibly efficient way to improve the health of a population,” Brauer added.

Poor air quality in China and India According to the World Health Organization (WHO) air quality guidelines, pollution should be restricted to 25 micrograms per cubic meter daily. Meanwhile, based on the research, Beijing and New Delhi had daily levels at or above 300 micrograms per cubic meter in February, which is higher than WHO guidelines.

In China, burning coal is the page 3 biggest contributor to poor air

[EDCA] was challenged in the Supreme Court. Now we have a green light. We are involved in the planning now,” US Pacific Command (PaCom) Chief Admiral Harry Harris Jr. was quoted in a recent report from the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Referring to the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), Harris emphasized that the agreement between the United States and the Philippines “allow [the US] to use some Philippine bases and allows [the US] to improve infrastructure at those bases.” The PaCom Chief also added that the agreement is not about creating new American bases in the Philippines, but is about using existing bases.

According to Harris, the EDCA will be “for our mutual benefit,” citing that Washington is actively coordinating with the Philippine government to prioritize “bases and the possible infrastructure improvement.”

“This will help the Armed page 4

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W H AT ' S O N C E BU

FEBRUARY 21MARCH 5, 2016

Cebu climbs to 7th among world’s top BPO venues

By RICHARD RAMOS

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fter staying at eighth place for the past three years, Cebu now improves one spot higher by clinching seventh place among the world’s leading Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) cities in accordance to the 2015 Tholons Study.

This marks Cebu’s highest placing ever as she continues to outshine her global counterparts even if she was a mere fraction of their gross size, population, and income.

Manila, specifically the National Capital Region (NCR), maintained its second rank worldwide as the two entities were the only Philippine cities that ranked in the Top 10.

India continued to rule over the Top 10 as six of its cities ranked among the top eight placers. Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Pune clung to first, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and eighth places respectively.

Ranking ninth and 10th were Krakow, Poland and Dublin, Ireland. The highest ranking Chinese city was Shanghai at 12th place, followed by Beijing at 13th.

As a services globalization and investment advisory firm, Tholons cited PEZA’s (Philippine Export Zone Authority) report which counted a combined 27 Information Technology (IT) Centers and IT Parks operating in Cebu, plus an enlarging talent pool that draws diverse talent from the South.

“The continuously improving infrastructure has allowed the city’s IT-BPM sector to sustain recent developmental gains. The province of Cebu is likewise considered the educational hub of Central and Southern Philippines with the Central Visayas region counting 138 higher education institutions, both public and private, reaching nearly 260,000 undergraduate enrolees,” the study said.

Tess Chan, president of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, cited that “It’s

great news because it will bolster the Cebuano’s increasing reputation as capable and reliable. We actually need more locators and visitors to support the new facilities (housing, mall, recreational facilities, etc.) already provided and waiting for them now.”

Dondi Joseph, president of the Cebu Business Club, took on a more conservative and holistic approach as he indicated uncertainty as to the extent of Cebu improving one step further.

“I am not sure what a jump of one place means, but what I do know is that Cebu needs to improve its traffic situation, upgrade BPO related education to move up the value chain and produce more qualified graduates, and improve Internet access to attract more investors.

Then Cebu will move to the top,” he said in a text message.

Jun Sa-a, managing director of the Cebu Education Development Foundation for IT, was more upbeat and specific as he gave a brief industry situationer that capsulized the entire issue.

He noted that all the top six cities Elevated view of the Cebu Business Park outweigh Cebu from 2.5 to ten times the Photo courtesy of Richard Ramos size and population. Proving crucial to Cebu’s progress is a very active private sector role of CEDFIT which spearheads the sussuch as the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and tained growth of the industry and has helped Industry which has been a major partner of in attracting new players to Cebu.

While Tholons (a Services GlobalizaCEDFIT since its birth. tion and Investment Advisory firm) opines “The CEDFIT and all chambers’ partnership in the annual Cebu ICT/BPM Confer- that Cebu has not reached its full potential in ence and Expo has sustained and promoted marketing itself (industry identity remains somewhat BPO-centric) on the global front, the growth of the IT/BPM industry,” he said.

Sa-a also cited the collaborative ecosystem this likewise reflects on the country in general in Cebu, especially with the industry-academe and on the fact that tremendous potential for linkages, that has improved the quality of the growth still exists.

The present day scenario is a healthy mix workforce. This was further reinforced by the

of services, cutting across all three major service lines (ITO, KPO, and BPO). The variety of process groups being fulfilled in the city also mirrors the diverse talent pool available to the location (ex. software development, FAO, medical transcription, contact support services, etc.). Among the bigger names with delivery centers in Cebu are JPMorgan Chase, Aegis, Accenture, Teletech, Sykes, Convergys, and IBM.

by RICHARD RAMOS

Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino hailed Marites Allen, the country’s only registered lady feng shui master, in a funfilled event dubbed “Luck and Prosperity Forecast.” She predicted both good and bad outcomes for the audience in the Year of the Monkey. We also wrote our wishes on balloons and promptly let go of these simultaneously at the parking lot. Held a few days later at the hotel lobby was the Dragon Dance and a martial arts demo welcoming the New Year. A sumptuous buffet dinner was held at Uno, featuring Asian and native selections. This was followed by an extravagant display of fireworks lasting over 15 minutes at the hotel grounds. Then the invited guests all went home with tikoy.

Cebu City Marriott Hotel presents “A Whimsical Affair: Blushing brides, Dashing Grooms and Happy Ever After,” a classic-romantic take on the usual bridal event scheduled this Feb. 26 to 27. Together with Cebu’s premier wedding suppliers, this year’s bridal fair will feature Marriott’s versatility and seamless segue from sleek business hotel to romantic wedding venue while still incorporating Marriott’s signature technology enhanced guest services. Witness Cebu’s most notable personalities and industry movers as they bring the runway to life in the cou-

ture bridal collection of homegrown Cebuano world-class designers. Grand Opening of Bridal Show is on Feb. 26, Friday at 6 p.m.

Chong Hua Hospital Mandaue & Cancer Center, a PhP5-billion, 350-bed specialty establishment situated along Mantawi International Road at the North Reclamation Area, was inaugurated just last Feb. 18. The place provides curative, palliative, and integrative cancer services. A special component is the advanced Cancer Survivorship Care Services involving psychosocial care, a first in the entire Philippines. They also offer prime radiation, surgical, and medical oncology. The hospital is rated Level 4 by the Department of Health, the highest rating outside the Metro Manila area. One can also visit the Chong Hua Fuente Osmena branch which boasts of 600 beds, 2,000 personnel, and similar pricing rates.

SilkAir held its Travel Fair last Feb. 19 to 21 at The Gallery, Ayala Center Cebu. All-in round trip economy class fares to Singapore start at US$150. While Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Hong Kong start from US$200 above. Japan and Korea are available for US$400 up, while trips to Australia, Europe, New Zealand, the United States, and other countries are priced higher. Premium

Economy Class and Business Class fares are offered. USE BPI credit cards for zero interest for six months instalment plan. Tickets are redeemable whole month of February, travel period lasts until the yearend. One may also claim the Singapore Explorer Pass with free admission to over 20 attractions plus one-night hotel stay.

K-Pub BBQ Meat-All-You-Can Korean Restaurant opens its third branch and first outside Metro Manila at The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu. The place offers a unique dining experience amidst three large LEWD walls featuring Korean pop videos along with live smokeless grills. Located at the second floor the 600 square meter place offers four bountiful packages to choose from; the Eat & Run, Eat & Run Level Up, No Limits, and To the Max. Each package, starting at PhP499/head, consists of assorted meat dishes, side dishes, vegetables, rice, pancake, barbecue, seafood, etc. Food volume and costs are raised per level, along with pizzas and desserts. Other amenities include six VIP rooms, a smoking area, and an al fresco area.

Citizen’s The Watch Store, boasts of cutting-edge technology watches with stylish design as sworn by Daniel Matsunaga, local

screen idol, in a live celebrity appearance.

Tops here among the watches is their Citizen Eco-Drive Satellite Wave model with the world’s fastest satellite signal reception speed at three seconds. Or take note of another watch that converts any light source into energy and stores it for six months or more on a full charge. Why not the Citizen Altichron Cirrus equipped with an altimeter and electronic compass that displays altitude and direction along with time? All these and more at the upper ground floor of The North Wing, SM City Cebu.

Sony Philippines, a leader of consumer electronics, opens its 36th and largest Sony Centre to date. Measuring around 200 square meters, the place offers Bravia 4K TV sets in three models including the ultra-slim design, and Home Entertainment products, Hi-Res Audio, Alpha, Cybershot, Xperia Tablets and mobile phones. A special highlight is a PlayStation corner and ActionCam demo area for customer convenience.

Speakers come in the form of SHAKE-X7D with tweeter, mid, and woofer; party lights; DJ effects like a flanger, WAH, and Isolator; and the Fiestable app within SongPal app.

All these at Level 4, Robinson’s Galleria Cebu, General Maxilom Ave. extension.

FEBRUARY 21MARCH 5, 2016

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F E AT U R E S

MR Travel Services: 30 years of travel and excellence Text and Photo by CHING DEE

How one woman’s passion for traveling the world started one of the country’s premier travel services company

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s a young woman hungry for new adventures, Marlyn Rosas maximized her youthful energy traveling the world and immersing herself in various cultures.

Never mind if she slept in hostels or spent the night in a train to cross borders, all that matters is that she’s on her way to something new and exciting.

“You should travel while you’re still young,” Rosas told Expat. “Who knows what’s going to happen in the future? While you still have the energy and the capacity to travel, you should go and do it.”

This passion for traveling and her excitement to share her adventures often resulted with friends and family constantly asking her about travel recommendations and advice.

This gave her an idea to start her own travel agency. And in 1985, armed with her rich and personal knowledge of places and adventures, Rosas officially started MR Travel Services.

“My friends would often ask me for travel tips, so it gave me an idea: Why not turn it into a business?” Rosas recalled.

Service beyond satisfaction After three decades of excellent service, MR Travel Services offers more than ticketing and hotel accommodations. They also offer documentation assistance for anyone who needs help when it comes to travel documents to or from the Philippines.

Client Support Supervisor Girlie Castillo told Expat, “Everyone is a potential client here at MR Travel, whether you are traveling for business or for leisure.”

Formalized in January 2015, MR Travel launched a new division called PHLVisas, which is solely dedicated for visa and immigration concerns.

According to Documentation Specialist Bianca Rañada, PHLVisas aims to help expats

Meet the PHLVisas Team of MR Travel Services, ready to take care of your visa and immigration needs.

For more information on PHLVisas services, visit www.phlvisas.com and Filipinos alike to accomplish all documentation and requirements needed for a visa.

PHLVisas is not just for businesses and companies, individual travelers can also request for their services.

“We treat all clients with the same professionalism and respect because we make sure we always go the extra mile in order to provide excellent service,” Rañada explained. “I believe that’s what sets MR Travel apart.”

One of the goals of PHLVisas is to lessen the stress of paperwork, which burdens many travelers. Whether you are applying for a tourist/working visa or need a visa extension, the PHLVisas Team will assist your needs.

“For us, our clients are not just customers, they are our partners,” Castillo added. “Without them, MR Travel will not last 30 years.”

After a year of operation, PHLVisas’ Mar-

keting Personnel Dyonna Padilla admitted there are still challenges when it comes to dealing with various people especially in the travel services industry, “but at the end of the day, when you’ve clearly laid out your services and informed them about the company’s track record, the [clients themselves] will contact you to [close the deal] because they saw how convenient and reliable your services are.”

Expert’s recommendations With more than four decades of travel experience (and still counting), Expat asked Marlyn Rosas about her personal travel recommendations.

With summer just a few weeks away, Rosas recommended Siargao and Palawan for its pristine beaches and natural treasures. For those who can afford to go abroad, she suggest-

ed visiting Palma Mallorca in Spain and Tuscany, Italy for its vibrant culture, great wine, and delectable food.

Since there are a few long weekends ahead, Rosas suggested saving up for a 3-day, 2-night trip to Bohol or Palawan. She also mentioned Bali and Phuket for those who are looking to go overseas but don’t have much time to spare.

“When I travel, I must always go to the beach,” Rosas shared. “It’s a great way to relax and just enjoy the scenery. At the beach, you can do aquatic sports or just lay down and get a tan. It’s perfect for any kind of traveler.”

For trips with the family, she suggested getting on a cruise. She joked, “When you’re in a ship, you can’t go anywhere else. You will always be in the same location with your family at all times.” With mind-blowing amenities of cruise ships nowadays, there’s an activity for every member of the family.

Lastly, she recommended visiting Thailand for budget-conscious travelers. “In Thailand, you get value for money. The place is rich in culture, you will not run out of things to explore.”

“I believe traveling enriches one’s soul,” said Rosas. “It makes a person a better-rounded individual.”

MR Travel Services is fully accredited by the Bureau of Immigration, the Department of Labor and Employment, and the Department of Tourism.

MR Travel Services is located at Saville Building (ground floor), 8728 Paseo de Roxas corner Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati.

For more information about PHLVisas and related services, call (02) 822-1576, (02) 8221015, (02) 533-4079, (02) 208-6432, (0932) 884-5167, or (0917) 701-7131. You can also email at inquiry@phlvisas.com and visit their website at www.phlvisas.com.

Study: Air pollution claims...from page 1 quality. According to Qiao Ma, a PhD student at the School of Environment, Tsinghua University in China, outdoor air pollution from coal alone caused an estimated 366,000 deaths in China in 2013.

In a BBC report, Ma also calculated that air pollution will cause anywhere from 990,000 to 1.3 million premature deaths in 2030 unless even more ambitious targets are introduced.

“Our study highlights the urgent need for even more aggressive strategies to reduce emissions from coal and from other sectors,” said Ma. Meanwhile, the practice of burning wood, dung and similar sources of biomass for cooking and heating plays a major contributor to the poor air quality in India.

The research team says that based on the economic trends in India, the country runs the risk of having even poorer air quality in the future.

“Despite proposed emissions control, there is significant growth in the demand for electricity as well as industrial production. So, through to 2050, this growth overshadows the emissions controls (in our projections) and will lead to an increase in future air pollutant emissions in 2050 in India,” warned Chandra Venkataraman, professor of Chemical Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, in Mumbai, India in a Time report.

Measures against pollution The study by the WHO Global Burden of Disease project serves as a shocking wake-up call that underline the need both for aggressive government policies to reduce emissions and greater awareness among the public about how

they can take action to protect themselves.

“Society as a whole needs to declare war on the air pollution responsible for killing over 15,000 children, women and men every day according to this latest research,” Mr. Bengt Rittri, founder and CEO of the global Swedish clean air technology leader Blueair said.

Dan Greenbaum, president of Health Effects Institute, a non-profit organization based in Boston, stated that planning and implementing management strategies to improve air quality is a difficult task, so the research will help guide experts on how to develop better air pollution management techniques and improve public health.

Apart from China and India, countries like Brazil, Pakistan and Japan also rank among other countries that have experienced increase in pollution deaths in recent decades.

In the last 50 years, policymakers across the globe have made massive strides to combat pollution with a slew of new regulations.

Places like North America, Western Europe and Japan responded by using cleaner fuels, more efficient vehicles, limiting coal burning and putting restrictions on electric power plants and factories.

At the end of 2015, China halted approval of new coal mines for three years and has issued stringent requirements along the lines of those in the US for new coal fired power plants. Also, during the recent periods of intense smog in China, the country developed warning system to get cars off the streets and halt industrial pollution.

The benefits of addressing air pollution extend beyond the people who experience the health effects of poor air directly but will ben-

efit everybody.

“One of the unique things about air pollution is that you can’t run, you can’t hide from it. But we know that if you improve air quality, everybody benefits from it.” said Brauer in a video accompanying the presentation. “So from the health perspective, reducing the levels of air pollution is actually an incredibly efficient way to improve the health of the entire

population,” he added.

Just two months ago, talks for COP21 or the Paris Agreement sets the goal of limiting the world's warming by reducing greenhouse gas emissions to "well below two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above preindustrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit).”

Your Best Resource for Philippine Visa Processing and Immigration Services!

Services Offered:  9G - Pre- arranged employees and their dependents  9D - Alien businessman  47A2 – For PEZA registered companies  13E/13A – Permanent residents  9A – Tourist Visa extension  Special Working Permit  Probationary Working Permit  AEP – Alien Employment Permit  ECC  ACR I Card  Downgrading of working visa to 9A  Grace period  Revalidation  Visa’s for Filipinos to different countries G/F Saville Bldg., 8728 Paseo De Roxas cor. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City T: +632 2086432 * 8221015 M: +63 932 884 5167 +63 917 701 7131 F: +632 751 0473 E-mail: inquiry@phlvisas.com.ph

Applying for Working Visa to the Philippines?

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Are you too busy to handle details?

And cannot be bothered to go to Immigration Office?

Please call us and we will gladly be at your service!

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PHLVISAS provides reliable and valuable visa assistance and immigration services to international clients visiting the Philippines whether for work or holiday travels. We help process immigrant visa and work permits of expatriates, assist in extending Philippine tourist visas of foreigners, and offer additional services in acquiring certificates and documents.

We are accredited with the following:

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F E AT U R E S

FEBRUARY 21MARCH 5, 2016

Tour de Pilipinas: Biking for awareness, racing against discrimination Text and Photos by CHING DEE

Pedal for HIV partners with GIV Brasil to spread positive awareness of HIV/AIDS around the Philippines GIV volunteer Victor Silba (red shirt) presents the HIV Positive Poster with Pedal for HIV founder Faustine Angeles Jr. The poster was made with a drop of Angeles' blood

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in Makati last February 15th. “Through sports, you can strengthen your body, improve your immunity against illnesses, and [release endorphins] which helps fight depression.”

Finding the strength to keep fighting When Faustine Angeles, Jr. found out he was HIV positive, he sunk into a pit of depression.

“I couldn’t believe it was happening to me,” Faustine told Expat. “I got so depressed. I didn’t want to talk [with] or see other people.”

Being an athlete, he turned to sports for comfort and a sense of normalcy. And later on, Faustine realized he could use his situation to help PLHIVs like him. That’s when he founded “Pedal for HIV,” a campaign to spread HIV/ AIDS awareness in the Philippines through cycling and reduce the stigma associated with PLHIVs. “I really believe [engaging in] sports will help PLHIVs, physically and psychologically,” Faustine said at the Pedal for HIV “HIV Positive Poster – Tour de Pilipinas” media launch

HIV Positive Poster: Would you touch a drop of HIV+ blood?

Confronted with a seemingly daunting challenge of touching a tiny drop of HIV+ blood, the people of Sao Paolo, Brazil showed different reactions to the HIV Positive Poster created and developed by Grupo de Incentivo a Vida (GIV), a non-government organization based in Brazil that aims to help spread awareness about HIV/AIDS and care for PLHIVs. The poster—made with a drop of actual HIV+ blood donated by a PLHIV—has won international awards, including the ‘Bronze Lion Award’ at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival (Press Category).

GIV volunteer Victor Silba told Expat, “We are here because we think Faustine’s campaign is terrific; it’s the first campaign of its kind that I ever heard about.”

Victor shared with Expat that when he found out he was HIV positive, he wanted to end his own life. But through GIV, he realized he was not alone and he saw how PLHIVs can still live long and fulfilling lives. Today, Victor spends his time volunteering for GIV, giving lectures about responsible sexual behavior and informing the public about HIV/AIDS prevention.

he number of persons living with HIV (PLHIV) in the Philippines has been increasing at an alarming rate, with a record high of 748 new cases in May 2015, according to reports from the Department of Health’s Philippine HIV/AIDS Registry. That means about 25 new infections every day.

That means 25 lives changed forever.

According to the DOH registry, “this is 51 percent higher compared to the same period [in 2014] and was the highest number of cases reported since 1984.” Out of the 748 new cases, 717 of the patients are male.

book.com/pedalforhiv. For more information on Tour de Pilipinas: Biking with a purpose Grupo de Incentivo a Vida, visit their website at Together with GIV, The Red Whistle www.giv.org.br. (an HIV awareness campaign using arts and social media to lessen the stigma on PLHIVs), and various sponsors, Pedal for HIV launched “Tour de Pilipinas”—a cycling and traveling advocacy around the Philippines which aims to increase visibility of the HIV Positive Poster, provide helpful and practical information about HIV, empower the youth to become advocates, and reduce the stigma and discrimination against PLHIVs. Tour de Pilipinas will have stops in Banaue, Palawan, Cebu, Boracay, and Iloilo between February and March 2016.

“The reception of the public has been overwhelming,” Faustine said.

“We are glad we have so many willing partners who want to help educate the public about HIV.” For more information on Pedal for HIV, visit them on Facebook at www.faceGIV Brasil volunteer Victor Silba goes to Payatas, Quezon City to promote responsible sex practices

Red Whistle Ambassador Daiana Menezes shows Faustine Angeles Jr.'s very own HIV Positive Poster during the press launch of Pedal for HIV - Tour de Pilipinas

US: ‘Now we have a...from page 1 Forces of the Philippines, but it will also help us. It is for our mutual benefit,” Harris said in the same Inquirer report.

According to Col. Restituto Padilla, the Philippine government and the military offered eight bases for US use, which includes five military airfields (including Clark Air Base in Pampanga), two navy bases, and a jungle training camp. According to a Reuters report last month, US forces “can build facilities to store equipment and supplies” in said bases.

"The list has been prepared many months ago when we had earlier discussions…These are still subject for approval and we're going to hold final discussions about these areas,” said Padilla.

In the same report, “a senior defense official” told Reuters that the US is also looking into gaining “access to three civilian seaports and airfields [in] Luzon, including Subic Bay.” During the ASEAN-US Summit in California last Feb. 16, Harris stressed the importance of Southeast Asia for the US. “Southeast Asia is at the heart of the AsiaPacific region and is the central pillar to US rebalance to the Pacific…The leadership of

ASEAN as a whole is key to the rules-based international order in the whole region,” explained Harris.

Earlier this month, US Ambassador Philip Goldberg announced during the Pandesal Forum in Quezon City that the US Congress has prepared “US$66 million in foreign military funding in process for the Philippines.”

“EDCA is designed to support what the Philippines is trying to do in terms of building a minimum credible defense, in terms of modernizing and equipping its armed forces,” Goldberg pointed out.

With animosity in the region—due to territorial disputes, military aggressiveness, and threats of nuclear weapons of mass destruction—US believes their forces will be facing quite a diplomatic (or even military) challenge. However, analysts believe that increased presence of American forces in embattled areas might help ease the hostility.

However, contrary to what analysts foresee, China's state-run Xinhua News Agency said the EDCA "could push the situation to the brink of war.”

The Aperitivo Italiano, the acclaimed networking event of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines is back on Mar. 2 at Seda Hotel BGC from 6 to 10 p.m. Guests can expect a nice atmosphere filled with great wines and delicious Italian food. Have fun meeting friends and making new connections. Ciao!

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F E AT U R E S

FEBRUARY 21MARCH 5, 2016

How do I love thee? Let Ayala Malls count the ways

By ANGIE DUARTE

Discover artsy reasons to Lov’emall this February

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remiere retail hub, Ayala Malls takes the business of your shopping pleasure seriously. So seriously, in fact, that their long-held slogan, Lov’emall, is more than just a mere tagline or – in this internet-crazed day and age – more than a simple #hashtag; it’s a lifestyle.

Ayala Malls’ team is dedicated to putting its customers first and to providing fresh and scintillating reasons to love the shopping experience at any of its many establishments across the metro and beyond. From free concerts and world-class performances, to fun activities and exciting promotions, there’s always something for mall-goers and shoppers of all ages to love at Ayala Malls.

Art to HeART In celebration of February, the love month, Ayala Malls showcases the artistic expressions of some of the creative young minds on the local art scene. A selection of art works from various artists who are active and visible in their respective communities was curated by Ayala Malls’ management, for exhibition in the various retail outlets in the artists’ locales. From evocative to quirky art pieces, there is a whole lot of eye candy to be had at Ayala Malls from Valentine’s Day, up to the end of February.

Glorietta shines the spotlight on the appealing creations of artist Mercedes Olondriz and celebrated crafter and pattern designer, Alessandra Lanot. Camy Francisco-Cabral’s visually stimulating design aesthetic will be at displayed at Market!Market!, while the work of The Googly-Gooeys beautifies spaces at Serendra.

Alessa Lanot with artwork

old world aesthetics and new world consciousness” - heightens the dynamism at edgy Bonifacio High Street.

In the south, Alabang Town Center proudly exhibits the creative spirit of Bambi Manosa and Kids4Kids, Sam Galvez-Lorenzo of Village Art Gallery, and Patrick Cabral of Bucketfeet, by way of a live art presentation.

Further down south, in Solenad, Serin and The District Imus, artists Tripp 63, Chill, BLIC, and Fine Arts students of Adventist University of the Philippines unleash a vibrant street vibe through a myriad of graffiti-inspired art work.

Up north, Trinoma pays homage to young artists Kris Abrigo, Egg Fiasco and Seikon; while UP Town Center lifts up the contemporary graffiti-inspired art of Drone. Fairview Terraces, meanwhile, hosts the colorful extravaganza that is the pop-culture infused art of EXL D. Pampanga’s Marquee Mall brings to you Marcushiro and Bru of Electrolychee, and their kaleidoscope of vector art and hand-drawn imagery. Further from the metro, young artist Farley Del Rosario’s amusing brand of creativity delights shoppers at Harbor Point Mall.

At Abreeza Mall, in Davao, students of Visual Arts from the University of Mindanao explore the “Lov’em” theme utilizing varied media; while community based artworks are all the rage at other Ayala Malls in the Visayas and Mindanao regions.

This February, lov’em artsy reasons to Lov’emall!

Couturier and designer Francis Libiran’s romantic interpretations are at Greenbelt, Camy Francisco-Cabral with artwork

while Filipino-American graffiti artist Dee Jae Pa'este art – which he describes as a “mixture of Dee Jae Pa’este for BHS

Tripp 63 with artwork

Kris Abrigo with artwork

Patrick Cabral with artwork

Sam Galvez - Lorenzo for ATC

Jose Gabriel Naguiat with artwork

Sam YG hosts the launch

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IN FOCUS N E W S PA P E R

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Murray Hertz Founding Publisher (1928-2014) Butch C. Bonsol President & Managing Director Timothy Jay Araneta Ibay Editor-in-Chief Suzette Defensor Consultant 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.

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FEBRUARY 21MARCH 5, 2016

We all scream for (Carmen’s Best) ice cream!

By ANGIE DUARTE

Photos courtesy of CARMEN'S BEST and YMV ASSOCIATES

Learn more about Manila’s premium dairy delight, and why it is worth all the fanfare

I

n Dairydom (the Dairy Kingdom), not all ice creams are created equal. In fact – if we were to be honest about it – not all ice creams should even be called dairy, if proper food standards were to be applied. Ask any black-and-white milking cow, and it would probably moo in agreement. After all, a good ice cream should primarily be composed of milk fat. Makes sense, doesn’t it?

But milking cows everywhere would probably moo in derision if they were to find out that many “ice creams” are actually frozen desserts or iced confections, in disguise.

These posers are made up largely of vegetable fat, fluffed with air, wearing ice cream’s labeling. And that’s the sad, sticky truth.

How do I know this? Well, I happen to love ice cream – the real, honest-to-creaminess stuff. I also happen to have recently had the opportunity to learn more about this dairy delight from none other than Paco Magsaysay; founder and creator of Carmen’s Best Dairy and Ice Cream, and guru and geek of all things deliciously ice creamy.

Got (fresh) milk?

Carmen’s Best has its origin story in – as we’ve already pointed out, as premium ice cream goes – milk. A whole lot of good, fresh milk. And this milk comes from Magsaysay’s family-owned farm and dairy plant, real Fresh Dairy Farm in Bay, Laguna. The milk, in turn, becomes ice cream (and yoghurt and cheeses) at the likewise family-owned Laguna Creamery Processing Plant, which opened in 2013, right beside the dairy farm.

“Real Fresh Dairy Farm opened in 2007.

My Dad decided to get into farming, after his two-term stint in the Senate, as he was exposed to the agriculture sector during his time in government,” Magsaysay, who comes from a wellrespected lineage of politicians and presidents, shared on board the media bus en route to the farm.

“He realized that dairy is the country’s second-biggest import, after rice. This led him to conclude that it would be good to open a dairy farm. It was also his way of fulfilling his own father’s – my grandfather, former Philippine president Ramon Magsaysay – dream of having a farm.”

So, in fulfillment of a dream and in pursuit of a seemingly elusive product, Magsaysay’s dad developed the 27-hectareparcel of land, and brought in 100 cows from New Zealand, through the National Dairy Authority.

“Now we have 264 heads of cow, yielding about 1,300 liters of milk a day. But they do not milk at the same time – around 30 to 40 percent of the total herd milk at one time; there’s a cycle to it,” Magsaysay detailed.

But at Laguna Dairy Farm, only the finest, freshest milk – sold under the name Holly’s Milk – is made. And this is what goes into every batch of Carmen’s Best ice cream. As Magsaysay noted, “for our ice creams, we use only fresh milk from our farms. And good ice cream should be 80 percent dairy.

So that’s 80 percent of the solution towards a good product. “ The 20 percent is just as premium: top-quality components from across the globe go into the brand’s unique favors; such as vanilla beans from Madagascar, malted milk powder from England, purple yam jam from the highlands of Baguio, coffee from Brazil, to name a few indulgent ingredients.

Brainchild meets brain freeze Magsaysay recounted the birth of his brain freezing brainchild with much delight. After all, the ice cream is named after his own dear daughter, Carmen.

“In 2008, my dad told me to go to the farm, and I initially didn’t want to go, because I’m a city boy. But I went anyway, to help him so that our fresh milk would not spoil. Then I got to thinking of other ways we could utilize the milk. In 2009, I incorporated Carmen’s Best Dairy Products; although we didn’t really know yet that we were going to make ice cream.

We just knew that we were going to do something more with our milk and cream. When we incorporated in 2009, we started making pastillas de leche (sweet milk candy), yoghurt and cheese. In 2010, I started playing around with standard flavors of ice cream. Our first four flavors were Salted Caramel, Butter Pecan, Malted Milk, and Brazilian Coffee – I decided not to include the other standard flavors I experimented with, because I found those too ordinary; and I felt our ice cream was extraordinary. We introduced our ice creams to the market in 2011.”

In 2013, the once-reluctant, now dairy die-hard Magsaysay went on to taka a shortcourse in ice cream at Penn State in the US. He finished crème-de-la-crème of his class, bagging the much-coveted top prize, The Keeney Award.

Good for you goodness Now, mind you, just as not all ice creams are created equal, milk varieties also have their own inequalities and disparities. In fact, most milk labeled as “fresh” is the furthest from it.

Many variants and brands are actually made from milk powder, and most are ultra heat treated (UHT) to the point of mutation. So maybe that last bit is an exaggeration, but ultra heat –treating does kill all the beneficial amino acids, as well as all the “good-for-you” goodness contained in fresh milk (and this I learned from the dairy farm’s super knowledgeable Operations Supervisor and resident cow expert –veterinarian, Jake Borja).

The scoop on Manila’s best ice cream Aside from the premium quality of fresh milk and other ingredients, Carmen’s Best is notches above the rest because of the process by which it is made. The inside scoop of this homemade artisanal ice cream? It is made the old-fashioned way: by pure craftsmanship, that is. There is no water added to the mix, no mass-production, no air to fluff it up, and no additives. What you get is 100 percent guaranteed divinely creamy, dairy deliciousness.

It is no wonder, as a result, that taste buds are tantalized upon trying Carmen’s Best ice cream. Aficionados of the sweet treat know that there is no substitute, no shortcut, to ice cream heaven. And – speaking of heaven – no less than Pope Francis himself expressed his admiration for the ice cream; even asking for a second pint of the Brown Butter Almond Brittle he was served on board Philippine Airlines’ Business Class on his visit to the Philippines in 2014.

Best-sellers include Salted Caramel, Butter Pecan, Malted Milk, and Brazilian Coffee.

But with over 37 flavors from which to choose – many with names as quirky as the variety; like Hokey Pokey, Secret Breakfast, He’s Not Worth It, Peanut Butter Clutter – there is a Carmen’s Best in which everyone can indulge. And about which everyone can scream their praise.

For more information, visit www.carmensbest.com, or call/text at these numbers: (02) 809-2042 or (0917) 567-BEST (2378).

Madagascar Vanilla

Brown Butter Almond Brittle

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G RU B H U B

FEBRUARY 21MARCH 5, 2016

A cup of (Costa) coffee, a sandwich, and you Costa Coffee perks you up with blissful blends and tasty treats, to boot!

to brew, freshness and quality are of great importance, handcrafted to deliver the utmost in coffee pleasure.

To create a cup of comfort, there are no shortcuts.

Costa Coffee’s signature blend – a combo of the finest Arabica and Robusta beans – are first slow roasted at carefully controlled temperatures to seal in the natural Beef Pastrami with Gherkins and Flat White aromatic oils.

It does not end uite possibly, only those of a certain with the perfect process of roasting, however. age and those with a penchant for good-old American Ragtime music The beans are also subject to a taste test by a of the 1900’s will recognize the title’s reference tongue that is worth its weight in a good chunk to the popular 1925 hit song by Joseph Meyer, of the world’s coffee harvest. Or, at least in milwith lyrics by Al Dubin and Billy Rose. Very lions of pounds – a whopping 10 million, to probably, however, most lovers of good coffee be exact! Costa Coffee’s “Master of Coffee,” will recognize the reference to the premium Gennaro Pelliccia ‘s highly-refined taste buds brand founded in London in 1971 by brothers are heavily insured, for good reason. Pelliccia samples the beans to guarantee both quality Sergio and Bruno Costa.

The song enjoyed a good deal of popular- and consistency before they receive the Costa ity. The coffee, even more so. From that first Coffee stamp of approval. Only after this are cup poured out and savored in the early 70s, the beans packed and shipped to more than to cup-after-cup enjoyed today, Costa Coffee 3,000 Costa Coffee branches the world over.

But wait, there’s more! Costa Coffee barishas become a celebrated caffeine sensation the tas undergo rigorous training to handcraft the world over.

Since its opening a little over half a year perfect drink for you, each time. Coffee prepago in the Philippines, Costa Coffee has been ping is done with precision, beginning with steadily winning over aficionados of the bean. the careful extraction of espresso, topped-off with the lightest, frothiest of milk foams.

And for good reason.

“Great coffee is prepared lovingly every time,” says Corinne Milagan, General ManNo shortcuts to Costa comfort Costa Coffee, for decades now, has been in ager of Costa Coffee Philippines.

“This is what we do at Costa Coffee. We the business of providing comfort in every cup of its premium blends, derived from the signa- don’t just push a button. Each coffee ordered is ture Mocha Italia roast of the brand. From bean made with utmost care, as it takes five to seven minutes to serve a coffee with true quality.”

Q

By ANGIE DUARTE

The bestselling specialty of the house is the Flat White variant; a shot of coffee (called Cortissimo) delicately capped with milk froth, with added artistic foam art in the shape of a florette. Another bestseller, the custom iceblended Frostino, has been developed with the Filipino palate in mind. Caffeine-free beverages, as well as tea, chocolate, and lemonade drinks are likewise available.

Coffee’s best munchies Costa Coffee heightens the heavenly experience even more by pairing their fresh brews with satisfying munchies best suited to the particular drink. Those with a sweet tooth can pick from several scrumptious baked goods to go with their cup of Costa. Divine dessert choices include the gooey and chewy S’mores, best paired with Americano; Banana Chocolate brownie with dark chocolate drizzle, which is the perfect accompaniment to latte; and the Peanut Butter Brownie Swirl, which goes well with Espresso Macchiato.

For those with a hankering for something savory, Costa Coffee offers three kinds of appetizing sandwiches made from the freshest, highest quality ingredients. The tender and moist BBQ Pulled Pork sandwich is best matched with Cappuccino, as the pork’s smoky Hickory Barbeque flavor provides a nice counterpart to the cappuccino’s delicate, smooth and silky body. Those who delight in the Flat White (and really, who doesn’t?) will relish their coffee even more with a sandwich as delightful and indulgent as the drink: Beef Pastrami with Gherkins; freshly baked flatbread loaded with slices beef pastrami (seasoned and smoked to perfection), Gherkin pickles, and tangy Breakfast set with Americano

100 reasons to love Crimson Hotel Crimson Hotel rolls out extraordinary culinary feat with ‘100 Flavors of Eclairs’

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Crimson Executive Chef Martin Bower with Pastry Chef Edcel Calleja

ith just one word, Crimson Hotel gave the public 100 more reasons to love this gorgeous Filinvest property in the heart of Alabang: Éclair!

Executive Chef Martin Bower—with his trusted Pastry Chef Edcel Calleja—dug deep in his culinary archives and came up with 100 different flavors of éclairs for the extraordinary pastry affair. While the conceptualization took a couple of months to iron out, the execution was a whole different matter.

Chef Martin and Chef Edcel told Expat that they started making the pastry shells for the éclairs nearly two weeks before its media launch last Feb. 4. The day before, Chef Edcel worked for 16 hours with the help of three staff members to make 1,000 pieces of éclairs—ten pieces for each distinct variant.

According to Chef Edcel, who was primarily in charge of making sure Chef Martin’s ideas jump from paper to the table, the hardest part of his task was making all the garnish for each

éclair. And with good reason!

Each éclair was thoughtfully crafted to its tiniest, most delicious detail.

Our personal favorites were the Leche Flan Éclair (after all, Crimson Hotel’s Café Eight is famous for their leche flan), The Chocolate and Orange Éclair with Vanilla and Saffron, and the Espresso and Mascarpone Éclair.

According to Marketing Communications Director Michael Sagaran told Expat that Crimson Hotel has more culinary surprises for everyone in the coming weeks. We will definitely look forward to that, and so should you.

Crimson Hotel is located inside Entrata Urban Complex, 2609 Civic Drive, Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. For inquiries, reservations and to get updates on Crimson’s next events, call (02) 863-2222 or visit www. crimsonhotel.com/manila.

cheddar cheese. The third and equally mouthwatering option is the Grilled Chicken and Prosciutto Ham: hearty grilled Chicken Saltimbocca and smoked Prosciutto Ham, topped with roasted red bell pepper, embraced by fresh and crusty flatbread; for which a cup of hot and steamy café latte is the spot-on choice to round out the flavors.

Additionally, Costa Coffee offers a light and refershing Pesto Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken, which goes really well with beverages such as Costa’s Classic Lemonade and Peach Tea. The British invasion has never been yummier, with Costa Coffee’s London-style all-day breakfast sets, served with a cup of Americano, primo size (12 oz. Take your pick from New Ham, Egg & Cheese English Muffin Set, New Bacon, Egg & Cheese English Muffin Set, Fresh Baked Croissant Set, and Muffin Set with a choice of either a blueberry or a banana caramel muffin. Simply delish!

Costa Coffee has the cup of coffee and the sandwich covered. Now all that is missing from the vintage hit song equation is you. Head on over to Costa Coffee, today!

Visit Costa Coffee at Citywalk 1, Eastwood City; Level 1 Pedro Gil Wing, Robinsons Place Manila; One World Place Bldg 32nd Street (between 9th and 11th Sts.) Bonifacio Global City; Tera Tower Bridgetowne, C-5, QC and Robinsons Place Antipolo.

Text by CHING DEE

Photos by LEOVIC ARCETA

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FEBRUARY 21MARCH 5, 2016

Every February, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) hosts the biggest gathering of aviators in Asia and around the world. Gigantic hot air balloons fill up the sky—an event witnessed by thousands of spectators from all walks of life. (Photo by Ruevin Serrano; for more of Ruevin's works, visit www.ruevin.com)

A Weekend at the City of Angels Weekend warriors flock to Angeles City, Pampanga for fun, food, and flurry Text by CHING DEE Photos by LEOVIC ARCETA, CHING DEE and RUEVIN SERRANO

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ooking for a weekend destination near Manila but away from the hustle and bustle of the metro? Angeles City in Pampanga is one of the best places to visit for a quick weekend refresher with friends or family.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, excitement, or great food, Angeles City is only two to three hours away—ready to satiate your wanderlust.

Flurry Valentine’s weekend is always a blast at Clark Airfield because of the annual hot air balloon festival. Now on its 20th year, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) is the biggest and longest-running gathering of aviators in the Philippines and around the world.

It all started three years after Mt. Pinatubo erupted—effectively wiping off the greater part of Central Luzon and affecting neighboring regions. With the aim of “[jumpstarting] the local economy and [uplifting] the spirit of the Central Luzon region,” former tourism secretary Mina Gabor spearheaded the first ever PIHABF event with some aviation enthusiasts, including Capt. Joy Roa, the first Filipino hot air balloon pilot and the vice president of the Aviation Society of the Philippines.

According to their website, PIHABF aims “to instill discipline in participating young pilots so they can develop into safe aviators, as well as to impart a spirit volunteerism and co-

operation to the whole community.”

Being the biggest gathering of aviators in Asia, PIHABF is also a great avenue to “share and exchange cultures and traditions with visiting pilots from all over the world.” The organizers of PIHABF also encourages “visiting pilots to be contributors to chosen beneficiaries of the foundation.”

With its slogan, “a weekend of everything that flies,” thousands of spectators flock to Pampanga to witness dozens of gigantic and vibrant hot air balloons fill the sky. Apart from fantastical hot air balloons, visitors also got to see various aerial exhibitions like paragliding, jet fly-by, and skydiving. There were also car exhibitions at the grounds, as well as an exhibit of various aircrafts used by the Philippine Air Force. Dozens of booths and stalls selling food and all kinds of knick-knacks—from mini hot air balloon souvenirs to Pokèmon plush toys.

For more information about the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival, visit www.philballoonfest.net.

Cafe Fleur

Fun Zoocobia Fun Zoo is not your average zoo.

More than a place to view animals, Zoocobia is an experience for visitors of all ages.

Owned and operated by the Zoomanity Group (the same minds behind Zoobic Safari in Subic and ParadiZoo in Tagaytay), Zoocobia offers the thrill of theme parks and the educational experience of a zoo all in one place.

For thrill seekers, there’s The Zooc Ride: a

FEBRUARY 21MARCH 5, 2016

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

A DV E N T U R E S Tamales Pampanguena

Pinoy Ceasar Salad

gravity-propelled car patterned after the luge in Singapore’s Sentosa Resort. Guests get to ride down a 400-meter track with three hairpin curves—guaranteed to make the ride an even more thrilling experience. Zoocobia is also home to one of the longest ziplines in the country.

They also have three mud slides and a topiary maze where kids—and the kids at heart—can play hide and seek.

Apart from exciting activities set in the lush brim of the Clark Freeport Zone, visitors can also view exhibits such as Birds of Paradise, Philippines’ Pride (a showcase of endemic animals and plants in the Philippines), The Barn (which houses animals like pot-bellied pigs and camels—and yes, you can ride the camels), and The Menagerie (a taxidermy collection of preserved animals).

For more information about Zoocobia and other Zoomanity theme parks, visit www. zoomanity.com.ph.

Food Pampanga is home to some of the best food and greatest culinarians in this patch of earth,

Crispy Hito Salad

Macadamia Kare-Kare

Cafe Fleur Interiors

9 so a trip to Pampanga wouldn’t be complete without a sampling of Pampanga’s pride: Its food!

After months of renovating a dilapidated old Narciso house along Miranda Street—also known as Pampanga’s heritage district—celebrity chef and food writer Sau del Rosario opened Café Fleur in December 2015.

With the success of his first cookbook ‘20 Years of Love + Cooking,’ Chef Sau told Expat that the menu at Café Fleur is a collection of his favorite dishes from France and Asia—adding that unique Chef Sau flair in every dish, a welcomed twist to classic fare.

“It’s a collection of my favorite dishes,” says Chef Sau. “I’ve worked abroad for years and I’ve also had my share of travels, so now I’m trying to bring them all here.”

When at Café Fleur, make sure to start your meal by savoring Chef Sau’s interpretation of Tamales Pampangueña and their Tinapa Truffle Mousse. Do not forget to try their Pinoy Caesar Salad—a wonderful mélange of tinapa flakes, salted egg, and homemade aioli. Another salad to try is their Crispy Hito and Green Mango Salad, where the shreds of tangy green mango works wonderfully well with the bitter salad greens, and the crispy hito (catfish) flakes adds a new dimension of texture to the dish.

For the main course, indulge yourself by getting the Crispy Pork Belly & Macadamia KareKare—that sweet, nutty sauce takes the dish to a whole other level. To end this gorgeous display of Capampangan culinary prowess, try their Chocolate Cake and their Ube (purple yam) Leche Flan Cake. I am already drooling just writing about it.

Café Fleur is located at Miranda Street, Angeles City, Pampanga (across Imerex Plaza Hotel).

For more reservation and inquiries, call (045) 304-1301 or ( 0935) 761-6550. Visit their Facebook page at www.fb.com/cafefleur.ph or follow them on Instagram @cafefleur.ph.

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FEBRUARY 21MARCH 5, 2016

Australia Nat’l day: Celebrating national spirit and friendship Text and photos by VIA BAROMA

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diplomatic reception held at ShangriLa Makati Hotel last Jan. 26 highlighted two joyous occasions, the National day of Australia and the 70th anniversary of the bilateral relationship between Australia and the Philippines.

Guests from the members of the government, diplomatic and consular corps, Australian friends and other personalities came to take part in the festivities and honor the milestones of Australia with the new Ambassador to the Philippines, Amanda Gorely, who just celebrated her first Australia National day in the country.

In her opening address, Ambassador Gorely proudly acknowledged the rich culture and inheritance of Australia.

“Ponder what it means to be an Australian, Australians are not particularly nationalistic. And I often feel more Australian when I’m overseas,” the Ambassador said. “There’s something about singing your national anthem when representing your country. In my short time of being here, I have frequently reminded of what makes me proud to be an Australian.

“Many Australians questions who we are.

There is one simple answer. In addition to our indigenous people, we are also a nation of first, second, and third generations of migrants,” she added.

The country of Australia was known to have welcomed 215,000 migrants including more than 25,000 refugees over the past year.

Another 250,000 Filipinos now live in Australia. Many of them are nationalists that are reaching to both countries’ allegiance in a wide variety of ways.

To highlight the bilateral relations of the two countries, in November 2015, the Philippines and Australia signed the comprehensive agreement, which was achieved through exemplary efforts of both sides. This will provide, support and deepen the already strong collaboration on wide variety of areas of Australia and the Philippines.

For his part, Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary had this to say: “If I were to describe the relationship between Australia and ourselves, I would say that it is the best it has ever been. If I were to asked to describe it in one word, I would choose to truthfully, factually, and simply describe it as: super.”

Angola Consul Helen Ong; Togo Consul Evie Costa; and Gambia Consul Agnes Huibonhoa

Australian Ambassador Amanda Gorely was joined by Papua New Guinea Ambassador Christian Vihruri and DFA Secretary Albert del Rosario onstage for a toast

Australian Ambassador Amanda Gorely and DFA Undersecretary Evan P. British Ambassador Asif Ahmad and US Ambassador Philip S. Goldberg Garcia

DFA Assistant Secretary Benito Valeriano of Maritime and Ocean Affairs Office Secretary Albert del Rosario acknowledges the deepening and broadening of the bilateral relations and Indian Ambassador Shri Lalduhthlana Ralte of Australia and the Philippines

Guatemala Consul Amelia Ablaza; Australian Ambassador Amanda Gorely; Togo Consul Evie Costa; and Angola Consol Helen Ong

Gambia Consul Agnes Huibonhoa; Togo Consul Evie Costa; Monaco Consul Fortune Ledesma; and Angola Consul Helen Ong

Ivory Coast Consul Vince Carlos; Mme. Jessen; EU Ambassador Franz Jessen; and Singaporean Ambassador Kok Li Peng

Kuwaiti Ambassador Waleed Al-Kandari; Australian Ambassador Amanda Gorely; Papua New Guinea Ambassador Christian Vihruri and New Zealand Amb. David Singaporean Ambassador Kok Li Peng; a guest from the British Embassy; British Ambassador Asif Ahmad; and USA Ambassador Papua New Guinea Ambassador Christian Vihruri John Strachan Philip S. Goldberg

FEBRUARY 21MARCH 5, 2016

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EVENTS

Thermilift: The latest beauty breakthrough offered by Belo

Still at the forefront of the beauty industry is the country’s leading aesthetic dermatology and cosmetic surgery clinic Belo Medical Group under the excellent leadership of CEO and founder Dr. Vicki Belo and managing director Cristalle Belo Henares as it recently introduced the next best thing in aesthetic anti-aging, Thermilift, in an exclusive event held at the Rizal Ballroom of Makati ShangriLa, Manila in Makati City. Thermilift is the newest FDA-approved and the first aesthetic procedure which delivers controlled thermal (radiofrequency) energy directly under the skin to help reverse the effects of aging. Thermi Clinical Advisory Board chairman Dr. Brian Kinney further explained the benefits of this revolutionary treatment to the guests. Also seen at the affair was Thermi Aesthetics vice president for International Sales Barry Rigby who presented an award to Dr. Vicki Belo for Belo Medical Group being the first and only beauty clinic in the Philippines to offer Thermilift. Congratulations to Dr. Vicki Belo and team for introducing a new dermatological breakthrough in the country!

Thermilift is the first FDA-cleared aesthetic device that employs temperature controlled radiofrequency

(From left) Hayden Kho, Martin Nievera, Rhian Ramos, Margie Moran Floirendo, Thermi Clinical Advisory Board chairman Dr. Brian Kinney, Belo Medical Group founder and medical director Dr. Vicki Belo, Thermi Aesthetics vice president for International Sales Barry Rigby, Iza Calzado, Belo Medical Group managing director Cristalle Belo Henares, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid and Tom Rodriguez

Doron and Cheryl Glazer with Belo Medical Group assistant medical director Dr. Philip Buñag

Isabelle Daza and Iza Calzado

Laly Etroit and Liane Bautista

Doris Jimenez with Mithi Aquino-Thomas

Justin Pitt, Cristalle Belo Henares, Tom Rodriguez and Atom Henares

The best in city living only from Robinsons Land Corporation

Continuously making a name for itself in the international property scene is premier real estate developer Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) led by president Frederick Go as The Sapphire Bloc was among the top honorees at the South East Asia Property Awards 2015 held at the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore.

Located in Ortigas Center, Pasig City and one of RLC’s prime projects under its urban lifestyle brand Robinsons Residences, the four-tower complex The Sapphire Bloc represented the Philippines in the Best Condo Development category of the said award giving body known as the largest and most recognized industry awards event in the region. Seen in the photo during the awarding ceremony are Ensign Media CEO Terry Blackburn with Robinsons Land Corporation vice president for Sales and Marketing May Precilla and vice president for Business Development Trina Cipriano. Congratulations to the entire Robinsons Land Corporation team for this remarkable achievement!

For being a trailblazer Aficionado Germany Perfume president and CEO Joel Cruz, was recently cited as an “Outstanding Entrepreneur” at the 2015 Asia Pacific Entrepreneurship Awards (Philippines) given by Enterprise Asia, one of the region’s leading non-governmental organization for entrepreneurship based in Malaysia. Joel Cruz’s local fragrance business has grown into a moneymaker with current expansion plans targeting the ASEAN market particularly Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. Joel joined business tycoons Jollibee Foods Corp. chairman Tony Tan Caktiong who was hailed as “Entrepreneur of the Year” and Mercury Drug Corp. president Vivian Que-Azcona who was named as “Woman Entrepreneur of the Year” during the awards night. Photos shows Joel Cruz flanked by Enterprise Asia president William Ng and advisor, Cebu representative Gwendolyn Garcia at the Intercontinental Manila. Congratulations, Joel!

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It is with deep sadness that we inform the public of the passing of our dedicated and beloved Associate Editor, Ms. Carmencita H. Acosta.

"This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life."

Psalm 119:50

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FEBRUARY 21MARCH 5, 2016

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ARTS & CULTURE

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Compiled by VIA BAROMA

VISUAL ARTS

Leonardo Aguinaldo’s Inima III Revisited Ongoing until Feb. 27; Galleria Duemila, 210 Loring Street, Pasay City; for more information, call (02) 831-9990 or email: gduemila@ gmail.com Galleria Duemila proudly presents Inima III Revisited by Baguio-based artist Leonardo Aguinaldo. The show takes its name from ‘,’ Ilocano for hand-pressed.

There is a kind of resurgent activism shown in intricate narratives in striking black and white woodcut and linocut compositions, which seemingly resemble tattoos—these are pieces that portray the insurgence of imposed industrialization in the Cordilleras, other works showcase disdain over the erosion of moral values, and some focus on the slow fleeting pleasures of life in the highlands—struggling to endure the invasiveness of globalization. His work has always highlighted the resistance between progress and its casualties, a situation that is echoed with much universality in developing countries.

In Inima III Revisited, most prints are multipart and at least three meters tall; the sheer size intensifies the sensitivity of his laborious process with such pride and tenderness comparable to tribesmen tattoo.

The charm of Aguinaldo’s shtick is the duality of it all—Igorot and Filipino, intricate and perplexing, and folk and contemporary.

With years of mastering woodcut printing Aguinaldo is able to forge a distinct social realist imagery, which sees him merging pagan and religious subjects in multiple vistas.

An accomplished artist Aguinaldo’s work has been exhibited at the Busan Biennale in 2002, Yokohama International Open Air Exhibition in Japan, 13th Asian Art Exhibition in Malaysia, Singapore Biennale in 2013, and recently at the “Markets of Resistance” trade and barter exhibitions in 2014 (Baguio) and 2015 (PWU). Among his many accolades such as CCP’s 13 Artist Award in 2003, he was also the Grand Prize winner of the Philip Morris ASEAN Art Awards in 2004.

Celebration by Yasmin Almonte Ongoing until Feb. 28; Sining Kamalig, Upper Ground Floor of Ali Mall, Araneta Center, Quezon City; for inquiries, email art@worldexperience.ph

Yasmin Almonte is an Associate Professor of the University of the Philippines, Diliman, College of Fine Arts. As a practicing visual artist, she is actively involved in solo and group exhibitions here and abroad.

She holds a Master of Arts degree in Painting from the University of Northern Iowa where she also graduated Summa Cum Laude for her Bachelor of Arts in Art, Teaching Licensure Program (K-12). Prior to this, she graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of the Philippines where she majored in Painting.

Among other awards given by the UP College of Fine Arts, she was granted the Tito de Santos Centennial Professorial Chair in 2013. In 2007, she received the Fernando Amorsolo Professorial Chair and Golden Jubilee Award in 2009. As a student, Prof. Almonte was awarded as of the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (T.O.S.P) by the Department of Education.

She was also an art expert for Mead Johnson (2009,2010) where she wrote articles and gave talks focusing on the artistic development of children between five to 18 years old.

Her current solo exhibition at Sining Kamalig Art Gallery in Ali Mall, Araneta Center will run until Feb. 25.

Pasyon by Cian Dayrit Ongoing until Mar. 12; Main Gallery, Art Informal, 277 Connecticut street, Greenhills East, Mandaluyong City; for more information, call (02) 725-8518 or (0918) 899-2698

Cian Dayrit’s “Pasyon” references Rey Ileto’s Pasyon and Revolution, the seminal text that limned the conceptual world of various resistance movements from 1840 to 1910 through the lens of popular devotional practices in the Philippines. In “Pasyon,” his fifth solo exhibition, Dayrit takes a different tack and approaches the now-familiar forms and formats of devotional paraphernalia as sites of concentration, which he uses to render composites of various ideological trajectories that are active within the Philippine contemporary.

Drawing comparisons between the retablo and the educational sit-in, the missal and the polyeto, and bridging the tropes of data-sheet info-graphics and anting-anting iconography, Dayrit uses devotional imagery and form not only to map out the conceptual worlds of movements that continue to inform the Philippine context (be they reactionary, imperialist, or revolutionary) but also to examine these movements themselves as practices of devotion.

CONCERT Fil-German Collab Debuts at Phil Int’l Jazz Fest Feb. 25 - Café Hyatt City of Dreams Feb. 26 - University of Santo Tomas (UST) Feb. 27 and 28 - Palacio de Maynila Now in its 11th year, the Philippine International Jazz Festival (PIJF) promises to be grander than ever with the inclusion of German pianist and composer Florian Ross, set to perform from Feb. 25 to 28 in Manila.

The Cologne-based Ross will be guest-

ing at the PIJF for the very first time and is coming to Manila by invitation of the Goethe-Institut Philippines, the German cultural center.

Joining forces with him are local jazz mainstays Colby Dela Calzada (bass) and Michael Alba (drums). Together, they will perform as the “Fil-German Jazz Trio”. The three have never played as a group before and will be presenting all-new collaborative pieces in three performances. The Trio will play at the Café Hyatt City of Dreams on Feb. 25 and at Palacio de Maynila on Feb. 27 and 28.

Apart from the performances, Ross is also conducting a workshop on composition on Feb. 26 at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Conservatory of Music. The workshop starts at 10 a.m. and is open to all young composers.

Florian Ross has been at the core of the German jazz scene for more than 20 years playing and writing music described as coming “from a deep synthesis of heart and mind, of feeling and intellect.”

With more than 40 sets of performances in 14 venues in and outside the Metro, the PIJF aims to reach new heights this 2016.

Apart from having the Filipino-German collaboration of Ross, Dela Calzada and Alba, the festival will also showcase international acts by artists from Norway, India, Israel and the US. The festival is organized by the Philippine International Jazz Festival Foundation headed by jazz singer Sandra Lim-Viray.

The Fil-German Trio’s performances and Ross’ workshop at the UST are free and open to all upon registration. To register, simply send your name to program@manila.goethe.org. For more information, visit www.goethe.de/manila.

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FEBRUARY 21MARCH 5, 2016

A journey to local flavor integration creation Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria welcome new Executive Chef

C

rowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria welcome a culinary master to lead its respective kitchens. Chef Ingo Oldenburg, a German national who brings with him over 20 years of experience in various deluxe restaurants and luxury hotels in Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia.

Chef Ingo is a German Culinary Masters Degree holder and has been trained by internationally acclaimed institutions in culinary management. He specializes in large-scale culinary operations of hotels and resorts, and has successfully collaborated with Michelin Star Chefs Jarad Gallagher, Pere Massana, and Shiqin Chen to name a few. He started his career in various restaurants in Germany, and then moved to the UK where he became part of Fredericks Hotel in Maidenhead and Mayfair Intercontinental Hotel London. Chef Ingo also had a stint as Sous Chef for Banquet and Catering at the Ritz-Carlton Wolfburg in Germany before moving to Dubai to join Sheraton Jumeirah Beach, and later on to Sheraton Miramar in Egypt. Prior to joining Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, Chef Ingo was the Executive Chef of Pullman Jakarta in Indonesia.

Handling both kitchens of the two hospi-

tality landmarks in Ortigas Center, Chef Ingo is incorporating new flavors and introducing new dishes in the menus to provide more options for guests and patrons. He plans to launch various campaigns in all outlets to tap new markets such as Wine Pairing Dinners, Baking Classes, and hybrid food.

“I would like Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria to be known for unique items while still meeting the popular taste,” he shares. “I would like to offer what I love to eat and match it with the taste of the people.”

One could wonder how a well-traveled chef could have a grasp of the “taste of the people.” But having a Filipina wife based in the culinary haven that is Cebu, and having flown in and out of the country for the past 10 years, Chef Ingo is plenty acquainted with this country’s rich flavors. And he plans to translate this understanding by incorporating classic Filipino dishes into new items like the renowned adobo, which you may soon find turned into a sandwich filling while grabbing a bite at either sister hotels.

“In the kitchen, we’re always experimenting and thinking about new ideas,” the affable chef told Expat.

Among some of Chef Ingo’s signature dishes include Foie Gras Duo (grilled Foie

gras with fresh pomelo, apple puree and balsamic reduction and Foie gras mocha), and Beef Carpaccio (served with Arugula salad and drizzled with truffle oil, Manchego cheese shavings and sunny side quail egg).

Be one of the first to try Chef Ingo’s specialty dishes when you visit Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria.

For inquiries and reservations, call (02) 633-7222 or email fandb.reservations@ihg. com.

Part of the IHG global portfolio, the Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts brand is a dynamic upscale hotel brand located in nearly 65 countries around the world in major urban centers, gateway cities and resort destinations. As the fourth largest upscale full-service hotel brand in the world and one of the fastest growing, the Crowne Plaza brand has a solid foundation for future growth. The portfolio has doubled since 2003 to nearly 400 hotels, and the global pipeline has increased fourfold to nearly 100 hotels.

Chef Ingo’s Roasted US Tenderloin – on top of buttered mashed potato, bouquet of baby carrots and fava beans, finished with port wine sauce

Strawberry Meringue Mille Feuille and Gelato – light strawberry cream layered between crisp and delicate meringue and circled by fresh strawberry accompanied with Crowne’s artisan chocolate Ferrero gelato

Foie Gras Duo – grilled foie gras with fresh pomelo, apple puree and balsamic reduction and foie gras mocha

Beef Carpaccio - served with arugula salad and drizzled with truffle oil, Manchego cheese shavings and sunny side quail egg

Pan-fried Black Cod – settled on creamy mushroom risotto with grilled asparagus tips, napped with saffron garlic foam

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18 fine wines Bordeaux rendezvous

Be part of a unique offering for the discerning connoisseur as La Veranda presents a collection of eighteen grand crus from the renowned wine region of Bordeaux.

In the first Filipino Formal by Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, guests and wine makers don the traditional Barong Tagalog in an evening of gastronomy and wine. The premier wine selection may be paired to taste from the unparalleled culinary offerings of Spiral’s 21 dining ateliers.

Embark on an epicurean voyage at La Ve-

randa on Feb. 29 from 6:30 p.m. onwards and experience the distinction of the various offerings featuring: Chateau Beychevelle; Chateau Brane Cantenac; Chateau Cantemerie; Chateau Dassault; Chateau D’Armailhac; Chateau Clerc Milon; Chateau Domaine de Chevalier; Chateau Dufort Vivens; Chateau Haut Bages Libéral; Chateau Giscours; Chateau Du Tertre; Chateau Guiraud; Chateau Issan; Chateau Lagrange; Chateau Lafon Rochet; Chateau Marlartic Lagavière; Chateau Pedesclaux; and Chateau Talbot.

Rate is set at PhP5,900nett per person, inclusive of buffet and wine pairing.

For inquiries and reservations, call Sofitel Philippine Plaza Restaurant Reservations at (02) 832-6988 or email at h6308-fb12@sofitel. com. Make your reservations early to guarantee seating.

Experience the Continental Club of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila

Exceptional hospitality, premium accommodation and exclusive privileges: Marco Polo Ortigas Manila’s Continental Club. Offering panoramic views of the city from the Hotel’s 42nd and 43rd floors, the Continental Club provides a host of personalized services, privileges and benefits.

Guests who avail of the Continental Club services are entitled to a complimentary oneway airport transfer, personalized butler services and private check-in and check-out on the 44th floor of the hotel.

Guests may also indulge in the complimentary breakfast, afternoon refreshments and evening cocktails that the Club offers.

Other special privileges include a complimentary pressing of one garment per stay and complimentary laundry service of one shirt or blouse per stay.

Apart from these exclusive benefits, guests may enjoy access to the Continental Club Lounge situated on the top 44th floor of the Hotel. Business travelers enjoy complimentary use of the boardroom for up to two hours per stay, unlimited access to the private library and reading nook, and a wide selection of business and office services to choose from.

An exclusive 15 percent discount on all Flow Spa treatments and massages is also available for travelers who wish to distress.

The Continental Club room package starts at PhP7,955++ per night (a minimum stay of two nights is required). This offer is valid until March 31, 2016.

The hotel is also offering an array of appetizing savories, sandwiches, designer cakes, chocolates and a host of freshly baked confections perfect for a cup of coffee or tea is Marco Polo Ortigas Manila’s chic yet casual coffee shop, Café Pronto. Located at the heart of the Ortigas Business District on the ground floor of the hotel tower, Café Pronto has been the new go-to place for casual business meetings, social gatherings, or personal relaxation for coffee enthusiasts. With its wide variety of flavorful creations and fresh beverages, Café Pronto’s to-go treats will give its customers that all-day lasting boost and inspiration from an early morning coffee, a mid-day sandwich, or an evening dessert.

Two of the crowd favorites include Café Pronto’s signature Turkey Club Sandwich and Reuben Sandwich, made a la minute that will definitely satisfy its guests with its own unique flavor. The coffee shop has also started to cater to its early morning guests as it offers the new French Breakfast Croissant Sandwich with Scrambled Eggs from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. only.

This breakfast sandwich is served together with yogurt, muesli, and fruit salad with a cup of coffee or tea. Customize this breakfast favorite with add-ons like crispy bacon, smoked salmon and ham.

To know more about Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, contact (02) 720-7777 or book online via www.marcopolohotels.com or email: manila@marcopolohotels.com.

Mad for Lobster at EDSA Shangri-La, Manila’s Heat

Go bonkers over unlimited lobsters at Edsa Shangri-La, Manila’s signature buffet restaurant, HEAT. Start crackin’ and indulge in a three-tower display of overflowing crustacean goodness featuring Boston, Slipper, Rock and other seasonal varieties such as Lobster tails, Pacific, Japanese, Tiger, and Bamboo. Grab what catches your eye or your appetite, and have it cooked exactly the way you want it. May it be buttered garlic with a hint of lemon, baked with overflowing cheese, hot off the grill, Chinese style stir-fried or simply steamed, you’ll definitely be coming back for more. Mad for Lobster is available every Friday dinner for PhP2,415 nett.

Apart from the high and mighty display, Executive Chef, Tobias Unger and his team of specialty chefs – Japanese Executive Chef Yusuke Hino, Italian Executive Chef Marco Ghezzi, and Chinese Executive Chef Tony Sum

has created mouthwatering repertoire of lobster dishes that are spread throughout the interactive stations.

Claw your way to the buffet spread and sample new creations such as lobsterlicious angry roll, spicy lobster maki, crazy lobster tempura maki, lobster thermidor, lobster risotto and paella, Singaporean chili lobster, and lobster Tandoori.

Apart from the fresh catch of the day, diners can still enjoy the wide variety of HEAT specialties including roast pork, coffee chicken, prime rib, Chinese and Japanese selections, fresh greens, charcuterie and artisan cheese.

End the feast on a sweet note with all-time favorite desserts – churros with chocolate sauce, crepe, macarons, raspberry molted brownie cheesecake, halo-halo and warm chocolate pie.

It’s claws-galore at HEAT every Friday dinner all year round. For a minimum of PhP5,000 single receipt, diners can even get the chance to win lunch or dinner buffet for two, unlimited iced tea, and lobster souvenir.

For inquiries or reservations, please contact their Restaurant Reservations and Information Center at (02) 633-8888 ext. 2740 / 2741 or email heat.esl@shangri-la.com.

Enjoy signature cocktails and weeklong parties at Vu’s Sky Bar

Redefining the nightlife scene in their side of the metro was Vu’s Sky Bar and Lounge’s aspiration as it opened its doors to the public September of 2014. Located at the 45th topmost level of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, Vu’s is still staking its claim to be a signature Ortigas attraction offering an unobstructed 180-degree view of Manila.

Apart from the remarkable skyline scenery, Vu’s Sky Bar and Lounge invites its guests to indulge in its recently launched signature cocktail named Divine Mousike, a deliciously refreshing drink that that is a blend of fresh fruit juices and a mix of different sweet liquor. Inspired by none other than Destileria Limtuaco’s famous APEC cocktails, this new concoction will not disappoint. Aside from this, international signature cocktails include Vu’s own rendition of the ever-popular Lychee Martini and Mango Daiquiri. These signature

cocktails are all served with a burst-in-yourmouth experience of the cocktail in jelly form.

A promising hub of quality entertainment is also what Vu’s Sky Bar and Lounge has become known for.

Along with its distinct interiors, the ambience gets better as the night wears on through various bands and artists taking the stage to amuse the guests. Start the week right as Monday Night Bash presents modern band J Project. The best of 80s are feted with Take Me Back Tuesdays with Mulatto Band. Everyone is invited to a night of rock n’ roll as Midlife Crisis takes the spotlight for The Wednesday Shindig. Relax with the music of SILK for Thursday Evening Groove, while guests are invited to unwind with the tunes of on-the-rise duo Migz and Maya for Feel Good Fridays. Celebrate the weekend and party with DJ Agnes for Retro Saturdays, then cap it off the weekend with soothing melodies for Slowdown Sundays.

To know more about Vu’s Sky Bar and Lounge and the other signature dining outlets of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, visit www.marcopolohotels.com. Follow the Hotel in Facebook at facebook.com/MarcoPoloOrtigasManila or @ MarcoPoloManila on Twitter or Instagram.

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Wanderland Music Festival 2016

FESTIVALS Friendship Concert features Israel’s Ravid Kahalani and Philippines’ Nicole Asensio

Feb. 25 at 9 p.m.; 12 Monkeys Music Hall and Pub, Century City Mall, Kalayaan Ave., Makati Singer, songwriter and producer Ravid Kahalani will bring this year’s Israel-Philippines Friendship Concert to new heights as he performs Yemen Blues in Manila. Joining the Philippine International Jazz and Arts Festival (Pijazzfest), Kahalani will perform rhythm and blues from Israel and will be joined by Filipina musician Nicole Laurel Asensio.

Born to a Jewish Yemeni family, Kahalani is an important star in the Israeli music scene.

His love for African-American soul and blues, roots music and traditional songs ignited his passion to perform. He has performed in over 150 shows with Yemen Blues, a group that he founded in 2010 with intense musicians from Tel Aviv, New York and Uruguay. Yemen Blues mixes Yemenite, West African and Jazz influences, and creates powerful mambo and North African rhythms with vocals reminiscent of ancient Arabic chants mixed with funk and blues.

The 11th annual Philippine International Jazz Festival includes 16 days of musical performances from more than 50 local and foreign artists. The International Jazz Gala will be on Feb. 27 while the Pijazzfest Gala will be on Feb. 28 at the Palasyo de Maynila.

Alongside the Jazz Festival, Kahalani will also bring Israel’s rhythm and blues to young Filipinos through lecture-workshops in the Far Eastern University on Feb. 21, University of the Philippines Diliman on Feb. 22 and University of Santo Tomas on Feb. 23.

Shakespeare Lives at The British Festival

Feb. 26, 27 and 28; Bonifacio High Street, BGC, Taguig City Shakespeare lives in 2016! This truly great Briton was in his prime as a writer four centuries ago, but his global legacy lives on.

William Shakespeare has inspired and influenced millions to this day, thanks to his supreme ability to capture the essence of the human condition that remains as vital and relevant in the 21st Century as it was during his time.

Here in Manila, The Bard will headline the British Embassy Manila’s annual event The British Festival – which will be held from Feb. 26 to 28 at Bonifacio High Street, BGC. One of the new attractions at this year’s festival is the Shakespeare Pavilion, which will house a series of events and performances that celebrate the life and works of one of the greatest and most influential literary figures in the world.

Sign up now, admission is free! Budding artists can join the children’s theatre workshop conducted by the Philippine Education Theatre Association (PETA). Others can take part in Everyday Shakespeare Talks by the Manila Shakespeare Company. Everyone will enjoy excerpts of PETA’s highly-lauded Shakespeare rap-musical “William” and “William Shakespeare’s Greatest Hits” by Word of Mouth Theatre, excerpts from “A Comedy of Errors” performed by British School Manila students and pocket live performances of “Romeo and Juliet,” “Twelfth Night” and “Julius Caesar” by Miriam College students. Also, experience Shakespeare’s “The Tempest Reimagined” at the British Festival.

Everyone is also invited to join the British Council’s Play Your Part by sharing favorite Shakespeare quotes through various online formats like 30-seconder videos and tweets, using the hashtag #PlayYourPart.

British Ambassador Asif Ahmad invites everyone to take part: “The themes of Shakespeare’s works are timeless. Politics, romance, intrigue, comedy and tragedy is seen in many adaptations in films, music, opera, literature and animation. Shakespeare has always been accessible. You don’t have to be a Literature or English major to understand an enjoy Shakespeare. You can catch three days of The Bard at The British Festival – so say yes to the question to be or not to be, be there.”

Mar. 5; Globe Circuit Events Ground, Carmona, Makati; for more information, call (02) 4702222 An annual music and arts festival based in the Philippines, Wanderland Festival is a yearly commingling of good music and good people. Gear up in your space suits as Wanderland 2016 take you on an amazing journey to the stars.

Wanderers will be treated to not just one, but two-stellar headliners: alternative rock legend, Death Cab for Cutie and Manila firstTimer Bon Iver. Fueling up the space vibes is the electronic group The Naked and Famous, Australian indie pop band San Cisco and electric duo Panama. Serving up some chill beats are Blackbird Blackbird, Chad Valley, and Commandeur.

Wanderland 2016 will also be welcoming the best homegrown talents: Crwn + Jess Connelly, Curtismith, Jensen and the Flips, and the Wanderland 2016 victor: Oh, Flamingo.

Tickets are priced at PhP6,450 for Star Wanderer and PhP5,160 for Wanderer.

BAZAAR Trendsetter’s Bazaar

Feb. 26 to 28, 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. at the World Trade Center, Pasay City; for inquiries, call (0917) 827-9260 or email trendsettersbazaar@gmail.com The Trendsetter’s Bazaar is one of the most talked about weekend bazaars and for good reason. With celebrity booths, a special sneaker sale, and giveaways worth up to PhP70,000, the @TrendsetterTeam truly lives up to their reputation as being one of the biggest and baddest bazaars out there.

This Feb. 26 to 28 they will be highlighting a section called, Sneaker District, which will have sneakerheads going gaga for kicks on sale. Brands include Onitsuka Tiger, Nike and street label Creative Recreation.

It goes without saying that current trendsetters will have a special place as well. Drop by and raid the closets of celebrities such as Laureen Uy, stylists Boop & Kimi Yap, Pam Quinones and Melissa Ricks; drop by and see what you can find from celeb entrepreneurs Camille Prats, Say Alonzo & Richard Juan.

Generous giveaways will be up for grabs via online contests and on-site raffles. You can win PhP1,000 GCs from sneaker brands Skechers, Keds, and Sperry Topsider; win free merchandise at the bazaar, and even a weekend getaway to some recreational activities. PhP100 gets you in.

CLUB SCENE BORGORE

Mar. 4 Chaos Nightclub, City of Dreams Manila, Asean Avenue corner Roxas Boulevard, Entertainment City, Paranaque for VIP reservations or inquiries, call (0917) 886-3678 or email: ChaosTableReservations@cod-manila.com One of the hottest spots in the metro, Chaos Nightclub is known for featuring international acts, top DJ’s, amazing dancers and a top-of-the-line sound and lighting system. This year, Chaos will be hatching a new breed of clubbing here in the metro with ‘Gorestep’ artist Borgore being the highlight of the center stage on Mar. 4.

Borgore is the stage name of Asaf Borger, a DJ/ Producer from Israel and proclaimed as the man who “ruined dubstep.” Borgore came from a play on the artist’s last name and an ode to his self-created genre “gorestep.”

Borgore’s gorestep combines EDM, dubstep and doses of heavy metal.

Tickets are available at Chaos Manila or SM Tickets at PhP1,000 each inclusive of one drink.