EXPAT NEWSPAPER JUNE 2017

THE PHILIPPINES’ FORUM FOR INTERNATIONAL READERS SINCE 1981

June 2017 Vol. XXXV No. 12

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Newspaper

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2 NEWS

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Filipina wins global conservation award

By RICHARD RAMOS

I

ndira Lacerna-Widmann from Leyte recently won the prestigious 2017 Whitley Award, a prestigious international nature conservation prize, in honor of her work to safeguard the critically-endangered Philippine cockatoo in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

Her Royal Highness Princess Ann presented the award worth £35,000 (around PhP2.4 million) in project funding to Widmann during a ceremony held by the Royal Geographical Society in London.

Cockatoos now rest in the forested grounds of “Iwahig Prison,” a huge open air penal farm, and forage over military and private land in Puerto Princesa.

Widmann said she will use the Whitley Award funds to continue working with Iwahig soldiers and prisoners to secure the future of the cockatoo population; training both parties to address poaching in breeding sites and working with landowners to secure feeding corridors under threat from development.

Cockatoo future The Philippine Cockatoo has declined by a staggering 80 percent over the last 40 years, decimated and nearly rendered extinct by cage bird trade, and an unfavorable habitat in its immediate environs in Palawan.

Green Oscars The Katala Foundation, co-founded by Widmann, has undertaken conservation work to safeguard the bird since 1998. By using specifically developed “PRIDE” campaigns and reaching out to children and city dwellers, she

Banes and boons of social enterprise

By RICHARD RAMOS

W

hile many stick to the dictum that “business is business,” one need not focus largely on profit maximization as THE major business motive since there exists several other issues and alternatives to typical business methods that can help uplift the plight of the other stakeholders involved.

Social enterprise is an ideal alternative; an organization with a culture centered on human values and exists to create societal impact alongside an ethical and viable business model. Included here are organizations from the cottage industry to mediumsized enterprises with a maximum asset cap of PhP50 million.

For issues and concerns on low profitability and sustainability, an authority of social enterprises recommends that the leaders of social enterprises can look for ways to achieve efficient operations while minimizing costs.

Social enterprise tips “For market penetration/distribution channels, it helps to develop and understand targets, innovation, network, and make available all possible distribution channels,” declared Atty. Alexander Cabrera, chair and senior partner of Isla Lipana & Co. Regarding product differentiation, Cabrera recommends the maintenance of

quality and product strengths, responding to market needs, frequent innovations, knowledge of competitors, and respect for customer feedback.

“When faced with zeal for profit over social good, one should develop and review vision, mission, and goals when milestones are achieved; develop qualitative and quantitative targets of your social mission to keep track of actual progress, especially if the impact of the social mission is not properly tracked,” he said during the Developmental Social Enterprise Awards Roundtable Discussion held at the Cebu Parklane International Hotel.

If the organization fails to catch up on good governance, he advises the leaders to know all the requirements, consider investing on good governance, join networks and industry organizations. “Always do what is right, no matter how small,” Cabrera added.

Other featured speakers were Joji Pantoja, CEO for Coffee for Peace; Regina “Nanette” Antequisa, executive director of ECOWEB; and Anya Lim, co-founder of ANTHILL Fabrics.

All three female speakers were past finalists of the annual Developmental Social Enterprise Awards (DSE Awards).

For more information, on the Developmental Social Enterprise Awards, visit www. dseawards.com.

hopes to build national pride in the Philippine cockatoo.

“WFN focuses on conservation success stories which give us reason for optimism.

The Awards Ceremony is about recognizing progress—winning those small battles which equate to change at the national level,” Edward Whitley, founder of the Whitley Fund for Nature said.

In addition to the financial benefit of winning the award, Whitely added that the winners would receive professional communications training to turn scientists into ambassadors who are able to communicate effectively with the public and inform change at the political level.

Widmann is one of six individuals worldwide to have been awarded a share of the total

prize money worth £210,000. The others are Sanjay Gubbi from India for reducing deforestation in Karnataka’s tiger corridors; Ian Little from South Africa for serving as custodian of South Africa’s threatened grassland biodiversity; Purnima Barman from India for inspiring women to protect Assam’s greater adjutant and its welfare habitat; Alexander Blanco of Venezuela for conserving the country’s harpy eagles as a rainforest flagship; and Ximena Velez-Liendo of Bolivia for enabling coexistence of Andean bears and farmers in the Bolivian mountains.

Widmann, who graduated magna cum laude at the University of San Carlos in Cebu, was selected from 166 applicants from 66 countries for the Whitley Awards, dubbed as the international “Green Oscars.”

Evolving tourism trends to reshape industry

By RICHARD RAMOS

M

odern tourism traffic has acquired new habits that differ drastically from that of traditional visitors, which has proven to be a valuable market for tourism stakeholders and front liners alike.

Dubbed “venturers,” this particular market is described to be more impulsive, seeks out new products and experiences, is self-assured, ignores authority figures, and refuses to be part of “the crowd.”

Additionally, these venturers travel more frequently and take longer trips, seek out underdeveloped destinations that have native charm, accept inadequate accommodations, disregard the language barrier, and even assimilate themselves in the local lifestyles.

Shifting tastes According to Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Director Aster Caberte, these visitors seek quality over volume from “mass” to “class,” regard travel as the new necessity, and target the customer of one.

“Travel agencies should prepare themselves for tailor-made travel itineraries geared to fit the needs of such specialized travelers,” Caberte said. “Their values and attitudes should be taken into consideration since they will be constantly growing in the industry,” Caberte added during her talk in the forum on “Sustainable Tourism for Revitalizing Rural Communities in the Philippines.”

She disclosed that an example here may be visitors who, instead of visiting Cebu or

Bohol for its commercialized tourism assets, go to Siquijor for its unique and quiet charms in an undisturbed setting.

Caberte also hinted that the usual tours do not really cater to the unique needs of the venturers, who don’t go for the typical attractions of mass tourism.

“The old models here are big-name, hightraffic destinations and attractions such as Makati and Cebu,” she continued.

Evolving market Central Visayas is composed of three main tourism destinations that attract drastically varied tourism markets: Cebu for huge volume tourism due to the availability of global hotel chains, malls, and cosmopolitan living; Bohol for its ecotourism charms and unspoiled beaches; and Siquijor for its sublime tourism potentials.

Another group is the “near-venturers” who outnumber the venturers. The former seek out well-appointed accommodations, safe food and transportation, and look for the beginnings of infrastructure. They also influence potential visitors in the general population to visit the place, especially if accounts and photos of the trips are flashed on social media.

These venturers and near-venturers constitute a large part of the evolving travel market whose overall growth will support the growth of specialty destinations and attractions without necessarily affecting traditional markets.

Camping by the gorgeous Lake Holon Photo courtesy of Department of Tourism Region 12

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By RICHARD RAMOS

Cebu Landmasters Inc., the biggest local developer in Visayas and Mindanao, recently inaugurated Casa Mira South, a 32-hectare property located in southern Naga City. Located just 30 minutes away from SM Seaside City, the place showcases a modern Filipino theme with a grand entrance right beside the national highway. Its 3,200 economic subdivision units have a price range of just PhP1.3 to PhP1.8 million inclusive of several household and kitchen fixtures. The property features a chapel with function hall, multi-purpose courts, clubhouse, adult and kiddie pools, and 24-hour security and property management services. Contact www.cebulandmasters.com for more details.

Bosch, Europe’s number one brand of domestic appliances, opened their showroom at the Bosch Design Center along AS Fortuna St., Banilad, Mandaue City.

Efren Reyes, appliance manager of Hafele Philippines Inc., lauded Cebu as a booming metropolis with a rich customer base, loyal to brands with superior quality. The German-made company has a complete

line of small and kitchen appliances with exclusive two-year warranty, that go with the tagline “invented for life.” Examples are ovens, washers/dryers, dishwashers, gas and electric hobs, blenders, island hoods, etc. Hafele, the country’s leading distributor of architectural products, distributes Bosch products in the country.

Isuzu Cebu Inc., located along A. Soriano Ave., North Reclamation Area, held its major Truck Sale feting “Media and Bankers Night” last May 22 to 27. Nine models of Isuzu Trucks were showcased, a combination of light, medium, and heavy-duty units. Buyers during that period availed of PhP20,000 discounts for on-the-spot purchases, plus free dash cam and PhP10,000 worth of fuel cards.

A press conference with company bigwigs revealed that Isuzu claims a hefty 77 percent market share of trucks in Region VII. Overall sales increased 338 percent despite the presence of cheaper Chinese imports. Isuzu Trucks have been the topselling brand for 17 consecutive years based on TMA-CAMPI Report (20002016).

One World School Unity and equity

By VIA BAROMA

O

ne World School – a non-stock, non-profit educational institution built on the commitment to provide equal access to learning opportunities for children of all abilities – recently held a successful two-day fundraising event last May 22 and 23.

The school’s students were front and center, as the walls of One World School’s Malca Media Center came alive with the sound of laughter and applause, with the kids’ stage performances.

The two-day fundraising event was organized, aimed to aid the school’s expansion project and programs.

“Next year, we’re going to have up to Grade 6 for the elementary school, and when the expansion is done, we’ll have up to Grade 12,” said One World School Founder and Headmaster Ericson Perez, adding that the expansion also includes the construction of a multipurpose hall, an outdoor playground, and more parking spaces.

Since fundraising efforts began in March, the school has already raised PhP1.3 million, with PhP12 million targeted for the endeavor.

“If we go back and look at what the school has done in the past, we can do it,” Perez said. “When I was fundraising way back 2012, I would go to meetings with just my ideas. We didn’t have school and teachers yet. I was asking the people to believe not only the ideas but also in me. Now four years later, I can describe the school in one word and that’s hope. We're looking for long term for our kids and for many kids out there who don't know about our school yet.”

A culture of change One World School opened its first day of classes on August 2013, fully funded through

school fees and individual and corporate donations and sponsorships, and envisioned to provide learning for children of all abilities.

Apart from placing emphasis on individual abilities rather than limitations, One World School also places great importance on the acceptance of children with a wide spectrum of learning profiles, including those who are gifted and talented, typical learners, children with mild, moderate and significant special education needs, and those that just learn differently.

“We provide appropriate and high standards of education for children of all abilities in a truly nurturing and loving environment,” Perez says. One child, and one family at a time, we are changing the culture of learning from one another and with one another.”

One World School currently has 65 students, from a dozen countries, including children of foreign diplomats and expat executives from multinational companies.

The school offers programs from Preschool to Elementary, where a specialized curriculum is given to each student. The specialized curriculums are designed to allow children to learn at their own pace while still growing with peers and friends who accepts them as they are.

“What sets us apart from other school is that we welcome all kinds of kids here. We refer to all of our students as children of all abilities to emphasize the value we place on their individual strengths and limitless potential. Our mission here is to bring out the best in those kids,” says Perez.

One World School is located at 444 A Epifanio De Los Santos Ave., Brgy. Guadalupe Viejo, Makati. For more information, visit www.oneworldschool.edu.ph

Filipino Homes, the largest comprehensive real estate solutions portal in the Philippines, opened its eighth branch in Cebu, and 23rd nationwide. Located at the basement of JCentre Mall in Mandaue City, Filipino Homes has partnered with startup real estate brokerage firm, Skyscraper Realty, headed by Gaylord Tingzon president and CEO. Filipino Homes, under Anthony Leuterio, president and CEO of Leuterio Realty and Brokerage, connects people to related products and services in the real estate business. These are Leuterio Realty, Car Savers, Live Eye, Build and Sell Products, Hotels and Rentals, Insurance Savers powered by Insular Life, Happywebs and Travel Savers.

Junior Chamber International ( JCI) Philippines, ( Jaycees) recently launched their search for the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines 2017 (TOYM) and The Outstanding Filipino Awards (TOFIL). TOYM are limited to male and female Filipino citizens aged 18 to 40, while TOFIL nominees are 41 years and above. Fields of excellence cover agricultural sciences, arts and

humanities, banking business, law, political and social sciences, sports, journalism and mass communications, medicine, law, military, technopreneurship, religious work, and others. Nominations are 100 percent online with criteria and mechanics based under certain conditions. For more details, log on to: www.toym.jci.org. ph.

CEDFIT to CIB.O – the Cebu Educational Development Foundation for Information Technology has now transformed itself into the Cebu IT/BPM Organization (Information Technology/Business Process Management). This rebranding was brought about by the exponential growth of the IT/BPM industry, which has risen rapidly from five companies and 200 employees in 2000 to 456 companies and 150,000 employees in 2016. CIB.O is a consortium of 128 members comprising IT/BPM companies, academe, support groups, government agencies, and civil organizations. Its vision is to make Cebu as the preferred IT/BPM location for higher value IT and IT-enabled services.

Francis Monera is CIB.O chair.

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4 FEATURES

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Newspaper The Philippines’ forum for international readers since 1981

Murray Hertz Founding Publisher (1928-2014) Butch C. Bonsol President & Managing Director Suzette Defensor Managing Consultant Timothy Jay Araneta Ibay Editor-in-Chief Richard A. Ramos (Cebu) Via Baroma Staff Writers Angie Duarte Ching Dee Writers-at-Large Nikki Joy Habana Macjanry Imperio Design & Layout Leah Egamino-Palaña Sales & Advertising Officer Vicky Soto Sales & Advertising Executive Our Headquarters: Unit 305 Cristina Condominium, 143 Legaspi cor. V.A. Rufino Sts., 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 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.

Discover the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila difference This top-rated business hotel in the heart of the busy city extends an invitation to delve into the delightful Text by ANGIE DUARTE Photos by ANDIE DUARTE SYYAP

R

enowned voyager Marco Polo is famed for his spirit of adventure and discovery. These days, there exists that same spirit in a modern-day generation that is not satisfied with anything less than the real deal. And the hotel chain named for the explorer is all too happy to oblige to this quest for authenticity. At Marco Polo Ortigas, authentic service awaits each guest, in an environment that delights, at every turn.

Sizzling sensations Over the summer, my daughter and I experienced firsthand, what makes this bustling business hotel in the heart of the Ortigas central business district truly unique.

While our overnight staycation hardly seemed enough time to take it all in, it afforded us a glimpse into the spirit of Marco Polo Ortigas. Unlike other hotels in the same class, this one is hardly your typical stuffed shirt: for all its luxurious elegance, Marco Polo Ortigas knows how to kick up its heels and have a good time. The night that we were there, for instance, guests were treated to a sizzling, sensational summer beach party at the hotel’s Vu Sky Bar and Lounge. The outdoor deck of this 45th floor venue was transformed into a veritable seaside scene, with sand, summery umbrellas, lounges, and all that you’d expect to find at a beach bash.

Dubbed Drink, Dance, and Dip, the festive fete took place simultaneously at all Marco Polo hotels across the Philippines, with the Cebu and Davao establishments joining in on the revelry. It was a night of music and merriment, not to mention, gastronomic grilled goodies and cocktails, carefully concocted to suit the mood.

Seamless service But it isn’t only the events that are hot at Marco Polo Ortigas – the service is warm and genuine, with a spark of passion and zeal. After all, is this not the very heartbeat of the hospitality industry? A hotel can venture far into the realm of the innovative, to offer new ideas to the most discriminating of travelers and guests. But, at the end of the day, the core value of consistent, superior service should not be cast to the wayside.

“No matter what all novelties and innovations bring – which is certainly a sign of the times, therefore necessary to integrate into the operations and customer service – the most important philosophy for me is to keep on getting the basics right, on a consistent basis,” says Frank Reichenbach, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila’s GM. “Customers will always remember the personal touch, the extra mile the team was able to extend during their stay.”

Spoil your senses Of course, every enjoyable staycation (or vacation, business trip, celebratory function, what have you) calls for a certain amount of comfort and convenience – and these are not in short supply, at Marco Polo Ortigas.

From its well-appointed, spacious guest rooms (316 in all) and its exclusive Continental Club Lounge (complete with sweeping views of the city and beyond), to the delicious gustatory offerings at its in-house restaurants and its numerous amenities, the hotel is sure spoil your senses silly.

It’s truly no wonder, then, that Marco Polo Ortigas recently earned the much sought-after 5-star rating from global authority on luxury, Forbes Travel Guide. The hotel’s commitment to service and excel-

lence are evidenced in ways that make for a delightful stay.

“It is the customer experience, the attention to details, and anticipation of the 5-star service, well-traveled customers expect to receive while staying with us,” shares Reichenbach.”We aim to reach for excellence at all times. I certainly learned that good is not good enough, we need to perform at the highest possible level of customer service.”

Set forth to discover the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila difference for yourself – you’ll be glad you did.

Marco Polo Ortigas Manila is located along Meralco Ave, San Antonio, Pasig City.

A sizzling summer party at the Vu

The hotel's exterior Photo courtesy of Marco Polo Ortigas

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Message from French Ambassador 2017 marks a special year as we celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between France and the Philippines. On this occasion, we launched “PHILFRANCE: Feel French!,” a festival to be organized ever year to highlight the growing relations between our two countries in different sectors of activity, including arts and culture, lifestyle, business and technology, and the promotion of the democratic values of liberté, égalité, and fraternité.

Cinema is one passion shared by the French and Filipinos. Historically, and shortly after the very first public screening of Sortie de l’usine in 1895 by the Lumière brothers in Paris, the cinematograph reached the Philippine islands in 1897.

Just as the Treaty of Paris was signed in 1898, short films were already being shot in Manila, such as Panorama de Manila and Fiesta de Quiapo. In fact, one of the first movie houses in Quiapo was called the Gran Cinematografo Parisien. And then Hollywood conquered the world.

As early as 1947, France created the Centre national du cinema (CNC) to institutionalize the need to protect and support their cinema. It established a mechanism that has since provided financial support for the production of local films, ensuring their survival in the midst of international competition and economic downtrends, especially at the time of reconstruction following World War II. Meanwhile, the Cannes Film Festival was launched to provide a venue to showcase French films alongside others from all over the world. This created an environment that gave way to the development of French cinema that led to the Nouvelle Vague, with the particular aesthetics and story-telling style that continue to inspire filmmakers today.

Philippine cinema at the time also began to flourish. Films by acclaimed Filipino director Lino Brocka were featured in different sections of the Cannes Film Festival, setting a tradition that we relive today. Indeed, since 2000, the year when Raymond Red won the Palme d’Or for his short film Anino, Filipino films have been regularly selected to participate in Cannes – from the Official Competition and Un Certain Regard and to the Director’s Fortnight and, this year, the Semaine de la Critique.

On this milestone year, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with the Ministry of Culture and Communication, through the Institut Français, has invited multi-awarded director Brillante Mendoza to be the Godfather of La Fabrique du Cinéma, a mentoring workshop held during the Cannes Film Festival for selected, up-and-coming filmmakers from all over the world. At the same time, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), under Chairperson Liza Diño, has led a Philippine delegation to represent and promote the Philippine film industry in one of the most prestigious and well-attended film markets.

As we celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, which coincides with the 70th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, the French Film Festival in Manila will highlight French and Filipino cultures through a selection of films that have been screened in various sections of Cannes through the years. In cooperation with Pioneer Films, this year’s edition opens with Olivier Assayas’ “Personal Shopper,” which was in the Main Competition in the 2016 Cannes Film Festival.

I thank all the local partners and sponsors of the Festival, especially the Ayala Malls Cinemas, SSI Group, Inc., Peugeot and Delsey, for making this possible and for allowing more Filipinos to celebrate “PHILFRANCE : Feel French !” Bon film !

Thierry Mathou Ambassador of France to the Philippines

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L’OCCITANE en Provence

– Life.

Spend it well.

– Why wait for a special occasion to show off that special look?

Life is one big special occasion.

That’s why every stitch, every style, every bow, button, bra and breath-taking bag is designed to make you look and feel fabulous.

You only get one life.

Dress it well.

Wear it well.

Spend it well.

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Philippine cinema in Cannes 2017 P hilippine cinema was represented at several levels in the Cannes Film Festival this year. Two Filipino films were selected: Nakaw by Noel Escondo and Arvin Belarmino in the Short Corner and Jodilerks: Employee of the Month by Carlo Manatad in the Semaine de la Critique. After Jaclyn Jose was named Best Actress for her role in Ma’ Rosa by Cannes favorite Brillante Mendoza in 2016, the invitation of new Filipino filmmakers to the festival confirms the promise of great talent among the young generation of directors, beyond the festival regulars. Their exposure to filmmakers from other parts of the world further widens their horizons to develop networks with other film professionals, from directors to producers, and eventually, gain access to international funds or grants.

In fact, this is Carlo Manatad’s second visit to Cannes. Last year, he was among the 10 privileged participants to the La Fabrique des Cinémas du Monde hosted by the Institut Français at the International Village during the Cannes Film Festival. During this mentoring workshop, up-and-coming filmmakers from developing countries are guided and inspired by a renowned director. In 2016, it was Chinese director Jia Zhang-Ke. In 2017, Institut Francais invited Brillante Mendoza to be the “parrain,”

or mentor, of La Fabrique. This year, a Filipino director has become the Godfather of World Cinema.

To mark the 70th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between France and the Philippines, in synch with the 70th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, the Institut Français chose Brillante Mendoza for his achievements. Following the successive selection of his films in the different sections of the Cannes Film Festival and the commercial release in France of his French-co-produced titles, Brillante has gained recognition among the film community in France. He has also received the award for Best Director at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival for his film, Kinatay.

Following this, no less than Isabelle Huppert came to the Philippines to star in his film, Captive.

Meanwhile, Film Development Council of the Philippines Chairperson Liza Diño led a delegation of Filipino film professionals to Cannes to promote Philippine cinema in the international film market, and to support the two Filipino films. Her presence in Cannes allowed for meetings with France’s National Center for Cinema to further develop the cooperation between the two agencies. Official visits to the French archives and film offices in Paris also provided new avenues for cooperation that

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will assist the FDCP in developing its policies and programs to further uplift the Philippine film industry.

Finally, a series of meetings with Unifrance promises to facilitate commercial screenings of French films in the Philippines within the Cine Lokal program of the FDCP.

More French movies for the Filipino audience.

In the meantime, let us make the most of the French Film Festival. See you at the screenings!

Martin Macalintal Audiovisual Attaché

APRIL 12-25, 2015

8 22ND FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

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Les Malheurs de Sophie (Sophie’s Misfortunes) 2016 Director: Christophe Honoré From her castle, young Sophie can't resist the temptation of the forbidden, and what she loves most of all is to get up to no good with her cousin, Paul. When her parents decide to go to America, Sophie is delighted. A year later, she's back in France with her horrible stepmother, Madame Fichini.

But Sophie will be able to count on her two friends, model little girls, and their mother, Madame de Fleurville, to escape from her stepmother's clutches.

Nocturama 2016 Director: Bertrand Bonello Paris, one morning. A group of young people from different backgrounds.

They launch into a strange ballet in the metro tunnels and the city's streets. They seem to follow a plan.

Their gestures are precise, almost dangerous. They converge towards the same point, a department store, at the moment it is about to shut.

Night begins.

Un Château en Italie (A Castle in Italy) 2013 Director : Valeria Bruni-Tedeschi A woman encounters a man. Her dreams resurface. It's also the story of her sick brother, and of their mother, a story about the destiny of a rich Italian industrialist family. It's the story of a family falling apart, of the end of an era, and of a budding romance.

Je suis un soldat (I Am a Soldier) 2015 Director : Laurent Larivière Thirty-year-old Sandrine is forced to return to live with her mother in Roubaix.

Without a job, she accepts to work for her uncle in his kennels, which turns out to be a hub for trafficking dogs from Eastern Europe. She rapidly takes control in this male universe, wins the men's respect, and starts earning the money lacking from her freedom. But sometimes, good soldiers cease to obey.

JUNE 2017 GRUB HUB 9 www.expatphilippines.ph Tour de France 2016 Director : Rachid Djaïdani Far'Hook is 20-year-old rapper. Following a settling of scores, he's obliged to leave Paris and lay low for a while. His producer, Bilal, suggests that Far'Hook take his place in accompanying his father, Serge, on a tour of all the ports of France, following the path taken by the painter Joseph Vernet. Despite the shock between generations and different cultures, an improbable friendship develops between the promising rapper and this builder from the Northern France during an adventure that will lead them to Marseille for a final concert, one of reconciliation.

Les Chevaliers blancs (The White Knights) 2016 Director: Joachim Lafosse Jacques Arnault, head of Sud Secours NGO, is planning a high impact operation: he and his team are going to exfiltrate 300 orphan victims of the Chadian civil war and bring them to French adoption applicants. Françoise Dubois, a journalist, is invited to come along with them and handle the media coverage for this operation.

Completely immersed in the brutal reality of a country at war, the NGO members start losing their convictions and are faced with the limits of humanitarian intervention.

21 Nuits avec Pattie (21 Nights with Pattie) 2015 Director: Arnaud Larrieu and Jean-Marie Larrieu During the height of summer, Caroline, a 40-year-old Parisian and mother, arrives in a small village in the south of France. She must hastily organize the funeral of her mother, a flighty lawyer, whom she barely used to see. Caroline is welcomed by Pattie, who likes to talk about her love affairs with the local men to anyone who'll listen. While the whole valley gets ready for the traditional mid-summer dance, Caroline's mother's corpse mysteriously disappears.

Jamais de la vie (The Night Watchman) 2014 Director : Pierre Jolivet Franck, in his early 50s, is a night watchman in a suburban mall. Ten years ago, he was a skilled worker and union delegate, always on the bridge, always ready to fight for workers' rights. Today, he's a man who's resigned himself to being a spectator of his own life - and it's boring.

One night, he notices an SUV idling in the parking lot and senses that something is afoot. Curiosity makes him shake off his indifference and he decides to intervene. It's an opportunity for him take control of his life once again.

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www.expatph.com www.expatphilippines.ph L’Ombre des femmes (In the Shadow of Women) 2015 Director: Philippe Garrel Pierre and Manon are poor. They make documentary films without a cent and they get by with odd jobs.

Pierre meets a young intern, Elisabeth, and she becomes his mistress. But Pierre doesn't want to leave Manon for Elisabeth – he wants to keep them both. One day Elisabeth, Pierre's young mistress, discovers that Manon, Pierre's wife, has a lover. And she tells Pierre… Pierre focuses his attention on Manon once again, because she's the one he loved. And because he feels betrayed, he beseeches Manon and neglects Elisabeth. Manon breaks off with her lover right away. There's a good chance she does so because she loves Pierre.

Le Dernier diamant (The Last Diamond) 2014 Director: Eric Barbier Simon, a thief released on parole, accepts to carry out the biggest job of his life, which is to steal the "Florentin," a mythical diamond being auctioned by its owners. To succeed, he must get close to Julia, a diamond expert, for whom the sale is of considerable personal importance. Beyond the boldly daring theft, Simon will lead Julia toward a destiny that she could never have imagined.

Géronimo 2014 Director: Tony Gatlif South of France. In the sultry August heat, Geronimo, a young social educator, tries to ease tensions between the youngsters of the neighborhood of St. Pierre. The mood changes when Nil Terzi, a teenage girl of Turkish origin, flees an arranged marriage, running to the arms of her gypsy lover, Lucky Molina. Their escape sparks hostilities between the two clans. When the jousting and the musical battles begin, Geronimo struggles to quell the ensuing unrest around her.

Bastille Day 2016 Director: James Watkins Michael Mason is an American pickpocket living in Paris who finds himself on the top of the CIA's most-wanted list when he steals a bag that contains more than just a wallet. Sean Briar, the field agent on the case, soon realizes that Michael is just a pawn in a much bigger game and decides to recruit him in order to uncover the source of a large-scale conspiracy. A race against time ensues, in which the two men discover they are both targets and must rely on each other to take down a powerful organization.

Personal Shopper 2016 Director: Olivier Assayas Maureen is a young American woman in Paris making her living as a personal shopper for Kyra, a celebrity. Also, Maureen may have the psychic ability to communicate with spirits, just like her twin brother, Lewis, who recently passed away. She soon starts receiving ambiguous messages coming from an unknown source.

It’s that time of the year most-awaited by the cinéphiles of Manila, looking forward to watching movies that differ from the commercial programming of the local theaters. Indeed, French cinema has found an audience with a taste for another kind of narrative, stories close to everyday realities, maybe even movies in a foreign language.

Films are a mirror of society, reflecting situations or issues, problems or concerns highlighted by the director, depending on the angles offered to the viewer. In this sense, films provide the best medium to promote cultural understanding among peoples. While France is generally perceived as a society of luxury, fashion, gastronomy – wine and cheese, culture and arts - museums, paintings, theater and opera, contemporary cinema will show that it is first and foremost a society of families and couples with relationship issues, children and youth with adolescent problems, professionals with career dilemmas, individuals confronted with life options.

This year’s selection offers a glimpse into contemporary French society from the standpoint of the Parisian youth for example in Nocturama, although in a very particular context, or the different problems that confront families in Je suis un soldat, or 21 Nuits avec Pattie. Gender issues are a recurrent theme in L’Ombre des Femmes, while labor rights are raised in Jamais de la Vie. While social issues, unemployment, generation gaps and cultural integration are common problems, evidently, France is still a society of fashion and luxury as can be seen in Personal Shopper.

International film festivals provide an opportunity to discover foreign cultures through the silver screen. The French Film Festival, through a selection of films, gives the audience a glimpse of contemporary French culture and society. Organized within the framework of “PHILFRANCE: Feel French !” in celebration of the 70 years of diplomatic relations between France and the Philippines, it coincides with the 70th year of the Cannes Film Festival, and will showcase a selection of French films that have been screened and awarded in the different sections of Cannes, from the Official Selection to the Director’s Fortnight.

With the support of Pioneer Films, the festival opens with Personal Shopper that garnered director Olivier Assayas the award of Best Director, in the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. Meanwhile, as we highlight the growing relations between France and the Philippines through cinema, a selection of Filipino films that have been recognized in Cannes will be showcased on June 12, on the occasion of Philippine Independence Day, including the first Philippine Palme d’Or, Anino

by Raymond Red, and Ma’Rosa by Brillante Mendoza, which won the Cannes Best Actress Award for Jaclyn Jose in 2016.

The 22nd edition of the French Film Festival is witness to the growing enthusiasm of the Filipino audience for French cinema. The future commercial release of French films will hopefully establish the Philippines as a market for world cinema, with a public enjoying cultural diversity in the audiovisual sector.

Bon festival!

Martin Macalintal Audiovisual Attaché

APRIL 12-25, 2015

10 22ND FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

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Brillante Mendoza

Godfather to up-and-coming filmmakers at the Cannes Film Festival

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a Fabrique Cinéma is an annual program that supports the emergence of young, cinematographic projects in developing countries into the international market.

Through this program, Institut Français is able to reaffirm its commitment to cultural diversity and dialogue between cultures, which are at the core of its initiatives.

Acclaimed Filipino director Brillante Mendoza was selected to be the “parrain” (godfather) of the 2017 edition of the La Fabrique Cinéma program of Institut Français, the cultural agency of the French government mandated to promote French culture abroad.

After Chinese director Jia Zhang-Ke last year, Brillante Mendoza takes on the role as a mentor up and coming filmmakers and producers from all over the world. Mendoza, together with directors and producers of La Fabrique Cinéma of Institut Français, shared his experience and guidance as these young

filmmakers begin work on their first or second film project. For the duration of this program coinciding with the Cannes Film Festival, these participants benefitted from a personalized mentorship program, adapted to the level of advancement and professional experience of the director/producer tandem. Through this program, the participants were able to understand the necessity of positioning themselves in different markets, developing a professional network, and concluding co-productions and sales for the success of their project.

Since 2009, La Fabrique Cinéma has selected 148 directors and producers from 56 countries all over the world,

benefitting over 81 film projects.

Carlo Manatad, director of Jodilerks Employee of the Month, was a participant of last year’s La Fabrique des Cinémas du Monde and had the honor to screen his short film at the Semainde de la critique during the 2017 Cannes Film Festival.

Brillante Mendoza is no stranger to the Cannes Film Festival. In 2009, he was awarded Best Director for his film “Kinatay” and Best Actress for Jaclyn Jose who starred in his film, “Ma’ Rosa,” in 2016. In 2013, Mendoza was named Chevalier (“Knight”) in the French Order of Arts and Letters.

NOVAK DJOKOVIC

RENÉ LACOSTE

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“PHILFRANCE:Feel French!” celebrates 70 years of Franco-Philippine friendship and marks the beginning of a new journey

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017 marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between France and the Philippines. To celebrate this milestone, the Embassy of France, together with its institutional partners, has launched “PHILFRANCE: Feel French !,” a year-long festival that seeks to illustrate the growing and diversifying cooperation between France and the Philippines through five key themes: “Arts and Culture,” “Art de Vivre,” “the Youth and Knowledge,” “High Tech and Entrepreneurship,” and “Sharing Val-

ues.” From now on, this festival will be organized every year.

The ambition of the “PHILFRANCE: Feel French !” festival is to give Filipinos the opportunity to better “feel France” in various aspects of everyday life and to experience the strength of the friendship between our two countries through a series of activities to be organized throughout 2017 and in the coming years.

The “PHILFRANCE: Feel French!” program includes some of

the year’s most anticipated events such as the French Film Festival, Fête de la Musique, Goût de France, and the Soirée Beaujolais Nouveau, organized by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry. On June 22, 2017, to commemorate the signing of the Treaty of Amity of 1947, French pianist François Chaplin and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra offer an evening of French classical music at the Ravel Unraveled concert, the proceeds of which will benefit the France-Philippines United Action Foundation. Other

events to look forward to is the Bon Appétit! food market and the Dangal Photo Festival to be led by photojournalist Christophe Loviny, both taking place in November, and a series of seminars, conferences and meetings that will highlight French-Philippine cooperation in the arts, sciences, business, technology, and education, among other fields.

For the year-long program of “PHILFRANCE: Feel French !”, visit www.ph.ambafrance. org and use the hashtag #PhilFrance70 !

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A fun day of golf Lexus Manila, Inc. recently held the 7th Lexus Golf Invitational at the immaculate Sta. Elena Golf Club in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

The hardworking Lexus Manila team led by chairman Alfred Ty, newly-appointed president Raymond Rodriguez and consultant for external affairs Danny Isla, along with 120 captains of industry, traded in their fancy suits and office brogues for sporty clothes and golf shoes. An enjoyable day of friendly rivalry went underway as the guests took their turns at the courses. Emerging as tournament winners were Lexus Manila’s very own Alfred Ty as the Guest Division champion, overall champion Raymond Lacdao, Ladies Category champion Hee Kyung Jung, Division 1 champion Kit Dichaves, Division 2 champion Benito Yu, and Low Gross champion Tootsie De Jesus. It was an exciting day of companionship and camaraderie among old friends and luxury car enthusiasts.

Congratulations to the Lexus Manila team for a successful golf invitational!

Overall champion Raymond Lacdao

Lexus chairman Alfred Ty and Lexus Manila president Raymond Rodriguez lead the ceremonial tee-off

Philippine Airlines (PAL) president and COO Jaime Bautista, Lexus Manila, Inc. consultant for external affairs Danny Isla and Renato Reyes

Mario Chan, John Lao, Manuel Tang Dy and Arnold Clavio

George Soriano, Ignacio Soriano, Lexus Manila, Inc. EVP Yuichiro Suzuki, Toyota Motor Philippines president Satoru Suzuki, Sta. Elena Golf & Country Club owner and president Rico Tantoco and Alfred Ty

Lexus Manila, Inc. sales and marketing director Spencer Yu, Edward David, Tahnee Cruz and Maricarl Tolosa

Low Gross champion Tootsie de Jesus

Ladies Division first runner-up Park Hyun Jung and champion Hee Kyung Jung

Division 2 champion Benito Yu

Division 1 champion Kit Dichaves

JUNE 2017 GRUB HUB 9 www.expatphilippines.ph

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14 GRUB HUB

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Dim sum after dark? Definitely!

The Shang Palace serves up your favorite Chinese comfort food at Dim sum Nights, for a limited time only

By ANGIE DUARTE

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veryone drools over dim sum – after all, what’s not to love about this traditional, tasty, and easy to enjoy Cantonese comfort fare? Succulent dumplings that please your palate, in all their flavorful goodness, soft and doughy meat-filled delights, puff balls fried to crisp perfection, and an array of other sumptuous savory treats are favorites of foodies the world over.

The breakfast of champions Culturally speaking, it is customary to eat these small, bite-sized goodies served in steamer baskets or on small plates in the morning, up to the early afternoon. The Chinese, especially the older set, usually serve dim sum after morning exercises, such as Tai Chi, to energize their bodies for the day. You could, perhaps, call it their breakfast of champions. Folk of all ages also enjoy the satisfying snack-sized goodies at noontime or later on in the day, with hot tea.

It may come as a surprise to some, however, to learn that Chinese do not generally eat dim sum in the evening. There is no clearcut reason for this, save to say that it’s just how it is; much like people likewise associate

pancakes with breakfast fare.

But, I, for one, could eat breakfast food all day long – and there are many, many others with the same gustatory preference.

Let them eat dim sum!

To help lovers of dim sum, the Metro over, satisfy their cravings for the good stuff well beyond sunset, Makati Shangri-La Manila’s Shang Palace has launched Dim Sum Nights. Until June 30, the city’s raved about authentic Cantonese restaurant will be offering dim sum for dinner. The restaurants’ Cantonese dim sum chef, Leung Ka Fai, and manager, Agnes Chua, have cooked up this extra-special limited-time offer for long-time guests and new

customers in search of the best dim sum in town.

W e l l loved selections such as juicy, plump steamed crystal skin shrimp dumplings, steamed pork dumplings with fish roe, water pan-fried Dim Sum Alacarte shanghai bao, spinach dumplings stuffed with shrimps, deep-fried spring rolls, barbecued minced pork bun, and – my personal musthave – deep fried taro puffs with diced scallops, all await eager appetites.

The list goes on, and there is something to please the most discriminating of dim sum lovers. Relish these offerings with a serving of hearty, fragrant Matchang sticky rice, and pearl chicken steamed in lotus leaves. And leave

room for dessert – you must! – because the melt-in-your-mouth baked mini egg tarts with fresh milk make for a taste sensation you won’t soon forget.

Straight from the heart I have always relished well-done dim sum, but I did not know until recently that this customary dish means “a little bit of heart.” It is a little bit of the Chinese (particularly, Cantonese) culture, served up for your enjoyment. I would imagine that it is also named such, as a little bit of tender loving care goes into its preparation. Have you ever tried meticulously folding a delicate wrapper ever so carefully to form a pouch around a dollop of meat, veggies, or seafood? It isn’t easy at all – trust me, I have tried many times and failed rather miserably at it.

So go ahead: have that dim sum, loaded with loving preparation. Have it after dark, if you wish. After all, it is breakfast time, somewhere in the world.

For inquiries and reservations, guests may call (02) 814-2580 or send an email to restaurant reservations at rric@shangri-la.com.

Seda BGC rolls out Welcome to Marriott sumptuous buffet spread Manila: Your new go-to for vegan treats Text by CHING DEE Photos courtesy of Seda Bonifacio Global City

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uilding on their flagship restaurant’s name — Misto — Seda Bonifacio Global City recently launched a new lineup of local and international dishes for their weekday buffet.

Misto means “mixed” in Italian, a term that also describes the medley of international flavors comprising Seda BGC’s sumptuous buffet spread – ranging from international favorites to Filipino classics.

“We provide options for global travelers to enhance their dining experience, but we also recognize that they value authenticity and will always yearn for the familiarity of traditional flavors,” said Seda’s Senior Group General Manager Andrea Mastellone.

Most of the new dishes featured in Misto’s buffet lineup are comfort food, which is perfect for Misto’s value proposition: “Good food with great taste that has universal appeal.” These dishes promise to evoke happy memories or provide a feeling of satisfaction simply because it lived up to the guests’ expectations.

When asked how they managed to create these dishes, Group Executive Chef Romual-

Seda BGC Stuffed Squid

do “Pepe” Castillo says, “The key is precise timing, plus the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients.”

At Misto, it’s always quality over quantity.

Chef Pepe believes that “guests [should] take their time savoring the dishes and keep coming back for their favorites” instead of giving them dozens of mediocre choices.

A Taste of Misto features delectable dishes using fresh seafood like Yellow Fin Tuna, Steamed Crabs, Halabos na Hipon, and Seafood Pasta; local favorites like the irresistible Bagnet, sinfully delicious Crispy Pata, flavorful Pork Humba; and their crowd pleasing Beef Curry. The sumptuous buffet also includes soup, salads and antipasto, as well as a range of fresh seasonal fruits and enticing desserts to finish the meal.

Guests may enjoy A Taste of Misto from Monday to Friday for only PhP600 per guest.

Misto is located at the ground floor of Seda BGC, 30th St. cor. 11th Ave., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. For inquiries and reservations, call (02) 945-8888 or email misto.bgc@sedahotels. com.

Text by CHING DEE Photos courtesy of Marriott Manila

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dmit it: the biggest downside of going vegan is the frequently horrible food choices. How could something good for you taste so bad, right?

Well, not anymore. At Marriott Hotel Manila, you don’t have to be scared of running out of ideas where to get your plant-based cravings. Imagine your usual vegetables reinvented by their award-winning chefs. Vegan or not, it’s a culinary treat you definitely shouldn’t miss.

cakes are highly recommended for those who are trying to watch their calorie intake or even those who have diabetes. For once, indulgence doesn’t have to feel naughty. Check out their Mango Almond Cake, a sponge cake with mango gelee and mousse; Chocolate Sensation, a sable Breton with hazelnut and dark chocolate ornaments; and Chocolate Brownie made of bourbon vanilla bean and filled with hazelnut and pecan nuts. All cakes are available in three different sizes: 6”, 8”, and 10”.

Now, with Marriott Manila’s vegan delights, you will no longer have reasons to avoid healthy food — you’ll be craving for them!

Feast sans guilt At Marriott’s signature restaurant Cru Steakhouse, vegans can now experience elegant dining without the meaty guilt. Their three-course vegan menu begins with the Cru Steakhouse is located at the ground Chickpea Falafel, a Mediterranean appetizer floor of Marriott Hotel Manila and is open from made more flavorful with lemon-artichoke 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Sundays to Thursdays, puree and grape relish. The main course is and 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Fridays and SaturGrilled Forest Mushroom and Leeks stuffed days; while, Marriott Café Bakery is located at with fresh basil gremolata, garlic crushed the G/F and is open from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. baby potatoes and seasoned by tomato reducFor inquiries, call (02) 988-9999 or visit tion. For dessert, they offer lusciously playful www.manilamarriott.com. To keep up on their Chocolate Mojito Ice Pops made with a fine latest offerings, follow @marriottmanila at mix of coconut, mojito, lemon, and choco- Facebook, Twitter and Snapchat and, @manilate cake on the side. The best part? The set lamarirott on Instagram. meal won’t break the bank at just PhP1,300.

If you’re always on the go, drop by the Marriott Café Vakery for some Vegan Bars: Dark and white Felchlin Switzerland Chocolate clusters with salted pumpkin seeds. Felchlin’s very own pastry chef Anil Rohira flew to Manila to team up with Marriott Manila’s Executive Pastry Chef Fil Afable to create one-of-a-kind tasty and healthy creations.

For those who haven’t fully jumped into the vegan ship, Marriott Manila also has guilt-free vegetarian delights to make the transi- Marriott Vegan tion even easier. These low-sugar Chocolate Sensation

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Of Giant Ducks and Trampolines A day in Club Balai Isabel’s newest attraction Text and photos by CELINE REYES

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rom where I lay, all I could see was the shiny arching neck of a duck. Or was it a swan? It was unmoving at first then, all of a sudden, it turned towards me, very slowly, like something in the continuum was resisting it. It looked sinister, all too ready to clobber me with its beak. “God,” I heard myself say. That’s enough jumping for today.

I turned to lie on my back. The wet canvas of the trampoline cold against my skin.

That Saturday, the late afternoon sky over at Talisay, Batangas was a sweep of grey and plump clouds. The Taal Volcano a mere hazy outline on the far horizon. Club Balai Isabel (CBI), a premier resort, had just officially opened its newest addition to the estate: an

inflatable water park.

It wasn’t the first of its kind in the Philippines, but what sets CBI’s apart is, unlike the others that’s been set up just for the summer, it will be a permanent attraction.

Guests will get to enjoy the park all year round. Plus, it only takes about two hours from Manila to get to the resort.

Stumbling splashes of fun Dubbed as the Aqua Park and taking up a half hectare of Lake Taal, it’s composed of a variety of obstacle courses made even more challenging by the squishy, wobbly, slippery nature of high-grade inflatable vinyl.

A portion of it is festooned with large inflated

balls. There’s a giant hamster wheel, and this crazy contraption where one is essentially catapulted to the water. Of course, there were the giant swan-ducks. Everything reminded me of that TV show American Ninja Warrior, only this seemed more fun because chances of stumbling and falling over were higher (I speak from experience). Safety’s not an issue though, as everyone who chooses to go on the park was required to wear a life vest. Alert and helpful lifeguards are stationed in every corner to boot.

In fact, they were so helpful and ready to assist guests that I had let myself be “conned” into going up what I thought was a too-tallfor-my-taste waterslide right at the center of

the Aqua Park. I was content pretending to do some defensive Parkour across the groundlevel (or water-level?) obstacles. If I hadn’t seen a green-shirt-wearing lifeguard at the top of the slide, I wouldn’t have gone up there.

But the thing is I went on it, and, alright, it was quite a thrill. Even though I swear I saw a five-second reel of my life as I was skidding down, I did actually enjoy it. I think the screaming helped.

My favorite part, however, were the trampolines. I kept returning to them, jumping with ferocity and careless abandon.

Even after I fell face first into the black canvas and had a bit of an episode with the giant inflatable ducks/swans, I got up and kept bouncing. Good thing too, because then, the sunset made it more special. As I cavorted and leaped to my heart’s content, I watched the sky turn from drab to golden, then to a purplish afterglow that bathed everything in a soft, flattering light. The giant inflatable duck-swan hybrids even looked a little less threatening. All was well.

Moments later, we were informed that it was 6 p.m., and we were herded out of the Aqua Park. It was closing for the day. After all the guests were off the structure, the greenclad men went straight to inspecting the inflatables, checking for air leaks and holes, prepping the Aqua Park for another day.

As I took off my orange vest, I thought, “I want another go at that trampoline.” It was at that moment I was sure that CBI’s Aqua Park was going to be a hit.

To know more about CBI’s newest attraction, head over at their Facebook page: www.facebook. com/aquaplayparks

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