EXPAT NEWSPAPER JUNE ISSUE

THE PHILIPPINES’ FORUM FOR INTERNATIONAL READERS SINCE 1981

JUNE 2018 / VOL. 36 NO. 6

YOUR LOCAL GUIDE

JUNE 2018 www.expatphilippines.ph

2 FEATURES

MAAYO WELL

Stay Well, Live Well

Cebu’s wellness haven redefines medical tourism in a first-of-its-kind world-class outpatient facility in the Central Visayas region

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Words by ANGIE DUARTE Photos by ANDIE SYYAP

tay well, Ma’am Angie!” nurse Cielo’s voice rang bright and clear, as she bade me goodbye at the end of our visit to Maayo Well. This, however, was more than just lip service or a clever greeting in lieu of goodbye; this reverberated with all that makes Maayo Well tick—a desire, dedication, and drive to help people journey along the often elusive, yet oh-so-vital, path of wellness.

Better than cure Maayo Well, initially known as Maayo Medical, in Mandaue City opened its doors to a realm of wellbeing in the last quarter of 2017. As part of a 4-star wellness facility, which includes the Maayo Hotel, this outpatient center is a healing haven like few others. With a focus on integrative and holistic approaches to health, Maayo Well is committed to providing state-of-the-art, preventive, patient-centered wellness – and to carry this out in the most comfortable, hospitable way possible. In fact, this very philosophy melds with the word maayo, the Cebuano word for good, fine, and well.

“We don’t simply cure the sick. We make people well,” shares William Liu, CEO of the Primary Group of Builders, developer of Maayo Hotel and Maayo Well. “Wellness is a state of being; it’s a journey, not a destination – and that is what we promote. Medicine is typically very ‘curative’ – if you don’t feel well, you pop a pill. But wellness is a long-term commitment. It’s a celebration of life, really.”

And, what better way to celebrate life than to revel in a sense of wellbeing that encompasses spirit, soul, and body? This is where the

Executive suites afford even more privacy

A revitalizing aqua yoga class, at the facility's aquatic rehab pool

A group of Maayo Well's migos and migas, the center's highly-skilled and hospitable nurses

Maayo brand shines: it gives you the means to prevent or deal with whatever ails you, physically, while also affording you the opportunity to kick back, relax, and enjoy the finer things in life. Believe it or not, all without burning a hole in your pocket – prices of services and accommodations in the hotel and the medical center are fair and definitely well-worth your money.

World-class facility, Filipino hospitality Above and beyond the hi-tech machines, latest equipment and cutting-edge facilities – all of which are in no short supply at Maayo Well – perhaps what struck me most about this Department of Health-accredited facility is this: it simply does not feel like a medical facility! With its expansive floor space, high ceilings, posh waiting areas, and pleasing design

Expansive floor areas and halls allow for comfort during doctor's visits

Part of the facility's gym, also open to guests of Maayo Hotel

aesthetic, this outpatient center looks more like a luxury abode than a medical hub. And that’s a good thing – in fact, it’s a great thing.

I don’t know about you, but I am not a big fan of the tension of cramped waiting zones and the glare of eggshell white walls that assaults your senses at most clinics. And, instead of that typically harsh and antiseptic smell you find at most hospitals, the deliciously invigorating aroma of lavender and hibiscus permeates the air at Maayo.

“We like to call it the UN-hospital,” Liu enthuses.

I agree: “un-hospital” it most certainly is; from the top of its airy ceilings, down to the super gracious Visayan-style hospitality of the center’s nurses – or, should I say, migos and migas, a word play on the vernacular for

The uncluttered, welcoming reception area

Plush waiting areas are a common sight at Maayo Well

friend. At the facility, patients are guests, and nurses are friends; and each smiling-faced staff member of Maayo Well is an embodiment of gracious, highly-skilled service. Visayan hospitality is, after all, extremely difficult to top!

And, if you’re looking for privacy (and who doesn’t want privacy while undergoing some medical procedure or other), the center has hidden hallways, where guests and staff can move around and even get from the facility to the hotel, discreetly and inconspicuously.

Plus, the center is merely 15 minutes from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, making it the perfect place for a healing holiday.

In a nutshell, Maayo Well is a fine example of medical tourism at its finest. In 2015, the Medical Tourism Association ranked the Philippines 8th in the world as a medical tourism destination; Maayo Well is poised to further raise that bar.

Paving the way to wellness To make good on its mission of getting people on the road to wellness, Maayo Well offers a roster of services from a team of topnotch doctors and medical practitioners. At the core of each practice is the thrust toward prevention and education towards a healthier fuller lifestyle.

“We are not a hospital, so you won’t see a lot of very sick people – because our goal is to help you stay well,” shares Dr. Teodoro K. Gonzales, the center’s CEO. “We do not so much emphasize the curative side; why wait until you get sick? Let us help you do something now before you get sick. We are an integrative, holistic wellness center, and our goal is really to educate the public. We conduct lectures, we have support groups to help prevent disease. We help people minimize their risk of getting sick.”

On each of Maayo Well’s seven floors, guests will find services and treatments that pave the way to wellness: from nutrition counseling, aquatic rehabilitation, gym training and body toning, to restorative dentistry and rejuvenating facial procedures, from health drips and infusions to diagnostic procedures and scans, Maayo offers it all. An impressive lineup of specializations awaits guests, as well: ACES Eye Clinic, psychiatric services, a women’s health center, a full dental suite, ENT, cardiovascular care, diabetes care, a hi-tech laser and aesthetic center, men’s health, liver care, oncology, a pharmacy, and several more departments in the pipeline.

Yes, wellness can be elusive – but, thanks to Maayo Well, it is now within our reach. And we can grasp it in the utmost of comfort and convenience. Maayo, indeed.

Maayo Well and Maayo Hotel are at the corners of Plaridel St. and U.N. Ave., Mandaue City.

Contact (032) 888-2662 or visit http://www. maayomedical.com/ for more information.

One of a number of dental suites

IN FOCUS 3

JUNE 2018 www.expatphilippines.ph

Born of Hope

A closer look at the Panaad Festival, and Negros Occidental's industrial evolution Words and photos by CELINE MURILLO

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t was already well into the night, and without the artificial glow of the stage lights, the darkness that April evening became more complete. I was standing just at arm's length from the raised dais, noticing belatedly that I was holding my breath.

"Just one more shot," I prayed.

My camera's battery was eking out its final juice and I'd forgotten to bring my spare.

What bad timing, I chided myself, especially now that the town of La Castillana was performing.

This was one of the best, I've been told.

Bailes de Luces – the Dancing Lights. In the Panaad Stadium, along with thousands of Negrosanons, I looked on with awe. It was like watching a spectacle of multicolored and tamed lightning. Slightly baffling, but magnificent. The brilliant neon streaks cut across the thick new summer evening. I was almost glad my camera had died – enabling me to give it my full attention.

A confluence of celebrations It wasn't just La Castillana performing that night. A total of 23 contingents took to the stage, each showcasing their respective festivals. It's been said that if you want to experience a bit of everything of what Negrense culture has in store, come during the Panaad Festival.

And it wasn't just dancing and festivities that are featured during the fortnightly celebration. Panaad is also a time for locales to showcase their treasured products and crafts.

Surrounding the Panaad Stadium are structures christened as "Destination Pavilions." What used to be temporary stalls made of nipa and bamboo had evolved into permanent buildings that speak of each of the town's unique characteristics. And these are no simple structures. One features an indoor waterfall. Another was made to look like an aquarium. There's also one that is a full-on replica of a Spanish-era mansion. See, it's not really reaching when you assume that a pavilion reflects the actual situation of the community it was representing. A glimpse, if you will.

Indeed, it was like a microcosm, and going around this exhibit-cum-trade fair, I was pleasantly surprised at how diverse the province was.

Industrial evolution Like many Filipinos, I have come to know Negros Occidental as the "Sugar Bowl of the Philippines." I had a definite image of it in my mind: acres and acres of sugar plantations, the air perpetually smelling like candy, and food that are decidedly sweet.

Well, I wasn't completely wrong. The

Performers are all smiles for the opening of the Panaad Festival

A fire-eater dazed the crowd in the Panaad Stadium

Isabela's Kalag-Kalag Festival is Negros Occidental's version of Mexico's Dio de los Muertos

couldn't help but fall in love with the place.

It's no surprise then the province is also touted as one of the most eco-conscious in the country. For one, it is home to the Danjugan Marine Sanctuary, widely praised for its sustainable and conservation practices, offering a quality-over-quantity experience.

Its coastal municipalities are actively learning about sustainability, with the city of Sipalay – where most of the beaches are found – taking the lead. Inspections are regularly done among businesses to ensure environmental compliance. Solar panels are everywhere here. Single-use plastics are slowly being removed from the picture.

A promise fulfilled In just a few decades, the province has transformed from being one of the poorest in the Philippines into one of the most progressive. And the progress here, one should note, isn't limited to economic stats. The growth is inclusive; trying its best to be balanced. Sustainable. Fool-proof.

Lights are now dancing here. Smiles are enduring. Heck, even the dead seemed to be partying. The sweetness is still there of course, but it's no longer the only flavor.

There's a lot to be said, too, of its people.

Refusing to be defined by the past, tragedy became something worthy of celebration.

The Panaad Festival, for example, was birthed by strength of character – the term "panaad" being Hiligaynon for "promise." And that promise? It was realized because of the same resolve that engendered it.

Now back at the stadium, I let myself be taken by the dazzling lights. We were engulfed by darkness, sure, but I noticed the dancers did not falter. They pushed on; the lights blazing through the night. Like a beacon of hope.

Like a promise unbroken.

Bacolod's Masskara also took to the stage

province remains the country's biggest sugar producer, but unlike before, when sugar production was its sole industry, Negros Occidental had branched out over the years.

Since the sugar crisis of the 70s and 80s, the province implemented a powerful drive towards agricultural diversification. And from what I'd seen, that campaign has been largely successful. The people no longer rely on the sugar industry alone. There are countless others to choose from, all equally profitable, and boosted by the local government: rice, corn, cattle, nuts, and even small community-based industries like pandan-weaving and silk production.

The province is also doing excellently in

the tourism department. Tourism offered here is ultra varied. There's the cultural kind, which involves the many heritage houses scattered across the province. Farm tourism is also rising, with a number of organic farms being buoyed by the local government.

And then, of course, there are your mainstay beaches and hiking spots.

Amidst these offerings, it's delightful to know that development and promotion of destinations is not concentrated, having the intention of spreading the impact – both human and economic. Carrying capacities – a limit on the number of tourists per day – too, are considered and implemented. Its tourism path echoes so much of my own ideals that I

The Panaad Festival is celebrated every April. Its festivities are usually spread out over a two-week period, with most of the activities held at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City.

For more information, contact the Provincial Tourism Office at tourism_negocc@yahoo.com.

JUNE 2018 www.expatphilippines.ph

4 NEWS

YOUR LOCAL GUIDE

By RICHARD RAMOS

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 Writer-at-Large Nikki Habana Macjanry Imperio Design & Layout Leah Egamino-Palaña Sales & Advertising Officer Fevelyn Bucio Admin and Accounting 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 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.

Ayala Business Club (ABC) and the University of the Philippines School of Economics (UPSE) recently held an economic forum dubbed “Towards Inclusive Capitalism in the Philippines.” As one of the discussants, Virgilio “Nonoy” Espeleta, VP of business development and management services of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), enumerated his views on lessons learned from China and Vietnam. These include spurring investment-led growth to fast-track the economy, opening the economy to free enterprise, inviting highvalue Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) for quality growth and employment, exporting more products from the manufacturing sector, pushing for privatization for efficient management, and strengthening state control for closer monitoring of investors.

Atout France, an association of tourism and spirituality stakeholders based in France, introduced its latest tours and sights to the Cebu media. Religious tourism has expanded rapidly in recent years, having previously been known as a niche market. France ranks as the world’s top tourist destination with over 88 million visitors, while Paris alone attracts 36 million visitors. The country is host to 71 buildings of UNESCO World Heritage status, 11 of which are found in Paris. Among the more popular places are Normandy, Chartres, Alencon, Compostelle, Burgundy, Nevers, Notre Dame de la Salette, and Avignon. France also offers 48-hour visa processing. Visitors can also opt to stay at any of the SEH members, an independent group of 600-strong hotels across Europe.

Embassy of Russia feted Russia Victory Day last May 9 at the Museo Sugbo Cebu.

The event was headed by His Excellency Ambassador Igor Anatolyevich Khovaev, Cebu Governor Hilario Davide Jr., and Honorary Consul Armi Garcia. In his speech, the

ambassador recalled sad memories where Russia finally won a four-year war vs. Nazi Germany, which was backed by at least 20 satellites from Europe. The steep price was the cost of 26 million Russian lives, 2/3 of which were civilians. An event highlight was a video presentation of the Victory Day Parade in Moscow where military troops and weaponry were presented before President Vladimir Putin. The Ambassador also paid tribute to famed Russian author Leo Tolstoy, whose bust is displayed at the museum courtyard.

Globe Telecom has joined forces with Adobe, Da Vinci Kids, Quipper, and the Department of Education (DepEd) in expanding the Global Filipino Schools (GFS) program to further enhance delivery of world-class education in public schools nationwide. These entities have upgraded the five-day GFS certification workshops, plus three-month virtual coaching for teaching personnel beginning last May. Since 2012, Globe has used a modern approach to K-12 learning through internet connectivity, mobile tech, and specialized teacher training on 21st century approaches. The GFS package covers free internet for selected schools, projectors, virtual reality goggles, video casting devices, netbooks/tablets, and prepaid Wi-Fi devices like Home Bundles, Supersticks and a mobile cart.

Department of Science and Technology (DOST) recently hosted the annual 5th Asean-Japan Workshop held at the Shangri-La’s Mactan Island Resort & Spa. Eight international speakers spoke on the theme “Technology Transfer and Artificial Intelligence and Society” before a crowd of 120 global delegates. In a mini press gathering, DOST Secretary Fortuna dela Pena stressed the need for collaboration, not competition, especially in the health sector. He also dwelt

on the US$1 million fund created by the Duterte administration geared at helping scholars train in Japan, provided they return to the country after three years. Other Asean countries such as Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia have also followed suit. Next year’s event will be hosted by Singapore.

Macao Imperial Tea recently opened up their first branch in the Visayas region, situated at the upper ground floor of SM Seaside City. Menu consists of teas (milk and soda), coffees, pastries, chocolate drinks, and cheesecake series. Special orders are their couple’s duo dubbed For You (mix of milk and caramel) and For Me (strawberry milkshake with yoghurt base), priced at PhP195 each. Cream cheese series include cream cheese milk tea and cream cheese oreo milk tea at PhP120/tumbler. Patrons may also opt for air-conditioned seating or al fresco with unlimited Wi-Fi and many electrical outlets for their convenience. All tumblers are reusable. There are a total of eight branches in Manila with many more due to open within the year.

Cebu Talent Network (CTN) invites everyone of all ages to join their weekly mall auditions to showcase their talents and get the chance to earn generous cash prizes and/ or a film or recording contract. Going by its tagline “Bisaya na pud, Bisaya na g’yud!”

(Visayan again, really Visayan), the company hopes to showcase Cebuano talents. Marlon Douglas Hofer, audition master, said weekend auditions for June will be held at Robinson’s Galleria with June 22 as the final date.

Criteria consists of 50 percent from judges’ votes and 50 percent public votes. There are also increasing Facebook points for likes, views, hearts, wows, and shares of the videos.

The next leg will be held every weekend at SM City Cebu, while Ayala Center Cebu will host the grand finals on December.

Cebu Biz Month all set this June

By RICHARD RAMOS

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he Cebu Business Month (CBM) is a series of month-long business and fellowship events that aims to accelerate Cebu’s continually thriving economy, and provide economic advancement opportunities to Cebu and the rest of the Visayas region. Headed by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), the annual event held every June also focuses on tourism, entrepreneurship, and Information and Communications Technology-Business Process Management (ICT-BPM). This year’s CBM carries the theme “Innovate Cebu,” and looks to highlight the importance of innovation in achieving competitiveness, as well as the strategic interventions possible in the key economic drivers of Cebu.

CBM events On June 8, the Cebu International Film Festival will gather local and global filmmakers at SM Seaside City to celebrate the art and craft of filmmaking, promote valuable cross-cultural partnerships, help revive the Visayan film industry, and showcase world-class films along with local works.

The following day, the first-ever Athletic, Academic, and Artistic (AAA) Renaissance Cebuana 2018 kicks off, showcasing the multifaceted skills of the competitors. The three part series includes the Cebuana Sports Marathon, the Battle of the Brains Quiz Bee (June 23 at the SM City Cebu Trade Hall), and a yet to be announced surprise challenge.

Another interesting event is the three-part race called the “Lumba’g Laag sa Sugbo” (Race and Stroll in Cebu) slated for June 10 to 12.

The three-day, two-night event features 25 teams

made up of four individuals each who will be competing in various physical and mental challenges, while traversing southern Cebu.

June 16 to 23 will witness the first-ever Cebu Design Week, which will showcase the ingenuity and creativity of Cebuano artisans and designers in various media such as fashion, computer graphics, furniture, performance arts, film, literature, among others.

Meanwhile, the Innovation Summit takes place on June 19 to 20 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino. The event serves as a knowledge-sharing platform bringing together stakeholders looking to support enterprise development and increased innovation in micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Other events include the Business-in Golf Tournament (June 21 at the Alta Vista Golf and Country Club), Sugbo Entertainment Expo (June 23 to 24 at Robinson’s Galleria), and the Grand Chamber Awards and Fellowship Night (June 29).

For more information, contact the CCCI office at (032) 2321421 to 24 loc. 107 to 108, visit their Facebook page at www.

facebook.com/cebubusinessmonth, or www.cebubusinessmonth.com.

JUNE 2018 www.expatphilippines.ph

23RD FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL 5

Message from the French Ambassador

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inema has been a shared fascination all over the world for at least a century. Since Louis and Auguste Lumière invented the cinématographe in 1895, filmmakers from all corners of the globe have been telling stories through moving images. The evolution of technology has allowed more and more people to make their own films and, in today’s digital age, allows them to instantly share these to a global audience. The internet may have made audiovisual programs more readily accessible, but cinema is a part of every nation’s and civilization’s culture and remains, despite and also thanks to globalization, a major form of expression of the diversity of cultural identities throughout the world.

Among the aims of French cultural diplomacy is to promote this diversity through cinema. France is among the leading countries in terms of the number of films produced and total box office receipts, making the French film industry one of the most productive and creative in the world. In 2017, French films were seen by over 80.5 million viewers all over the world, garnering €468 million worth of receipts. Meanwhile, the Cannes Film Festival, attended by over 12,300 film professionals and having screened over 4,000 films, is the leading film market in the world.

In the Philippines, the French Film Festival has been giving the Filipino public a glimpse of French culture and society for 23 years. It provides an alternative to the commercial programming of movie theatres, thereby promoting cultural diversity to the local audience.

This year’s 23rd edition offers a panorama of contemporary French productions, from family dramas to romance, modern day comedies, action and animation. Indeed, there is a film for everyone. Philippine film distributor, Pioneer Films, has observed the attraction of the Filipino cinéphiles to French movies, and acquires French titles that will be appreciated by the local viewers. Through the years, the festival has found a loyal and growing audience in search of a different kind of cinema that is focused on human stories, relationships, economic, social, and even political issues.

This year, Filipinos celebrate 100 years of Philippine cinema. Talented directors have been telling stories of the Filipino to audiences all over the world through international festivals. In France, several Filipino films and actors have been recognized by the Cannes Film Festival, such as Raymond Red’s Anino (Palme d’Or, 2000), Brillante Mendoza’s Kinatay (Best Director, 2009) and Ma’ Rosa (Best Actress for Jaclyn Jose, 2016). Up-andcoming director Raymond Gutierrez also returned to Cannes this year to compete in the Short Film category with his film, Judgement. We also congratulate director Zig Dulay, whose film Bagahe won this year’s grand prize (Cyclo d’or) at the Asian Film Festival in the French town of Vesoul!

The French Film Festival continues its tradition of paying tribute to Philippine cinema on the occasion of Philippine Independence Day by screening Filipino films that have been selected in festivals in France.

Through the efforts of Chairperson Liza Diño, the Film Development Council of the Philippines is building linkages with France to further develop the cooperation between our two countries through film. The French Embassy in the Philippines is happy to extend its support to facilitate initiatives, particularly in providing expertise and training and expanding professional networks in the film, animation, and digital audiovisual industries.

In the meantime, the festival opens to the public from June 6 to 12, 2018 at the Greenbelt 3 cinemas, the Bonifacio High Street cinemas, and the UP Town Center cinemas. I invite everybody to come see these films with their families, friends, and colleagues to experience not only a different kind of entertainment, but also to appreciate French culture. Practical information on this year’s festival can be found in the official website of the Embassy of France to the Philippines: www. ph.ambafrance.org.

Let us sit back, relax, and… bon film!

Nicolas Galey Ambassador of France to the Philippines

JUNE 2018 www.expatphilippines.ph

6 23RD FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

Phl cinema continues to go global with Cannes 2018 Words & photos courtesy of Film Development Council of the Philippines

I

n continuing its efforts to promote Philippine Cinema in the international scene and create more opportunities for Filipino producers to find international collaborators, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) once again led the Filipino delegation to Cannes International Film Festival and Marche Du Film from May 8 to 19, 2018 in Cannes, France. The Cannes International Film Festival, with its counterpart film market “Marche Du Film,” is one of only three A-list international film festivals in the world and gathers the best and most relevant film industry figures around the world.

Festival de Cannes The prestigious film festival featured “Judgement,” a film by Raymund Ribay Gutierrez at the Short Film Competition. Competing with world-quality films, Judgement is the story of Joy, a mother of a four-year-old girl, who finally decides to file a domestic violence case against his abusive husband, Dante. Gutierrez’ other short film “Imago” was also nominated for Best Short Film at the Cannes Film Festival in 2016.

Also, as a special feature, the premier of the restored version of the 1982 FrenchFilipino film “Cinq et la Peau” (Five and the Skin) was screened at the Cannes Directors' Fortnight. The whole film, which was shot entirely in the Philippines, starring Gloria Diaz, Bembol Roco, Philip Salvador and Joel Lamangan, directed by legend Pierre Rissien, was featured in the Cannes' Un Certain Regard 36 years ago.

The film’s director, Pierre Rissien, whom they call the Man of Cannes, passed away on May 5, 2018, just days before he was supposed to introduce the film during the Cannes Directors' Fortnight. He is a Cannes Adviser, an influential Cinephile and Cannes Film Scout before he died, and a known supporter of Philippine Cinema.

Award-winning Filipino short film director Carlo Manatad was also a participant at

Cinefondation’s Atelier for its 14th edition.

Manatad and his producer Armi Cacanindin were the only Filipino pair accepted in the reputable program with their project in development “Whether the Weather is Fine”.

The same project was also awarded the CoProduction Award in last year’s TorinoFilmLab. L’Atelier provides participants access to international co-productions to accelerate the film’s completion.

Cannes Film Market (Marché Du Film) For Marché, the FDCP hosted the Philippine Pavilion, which housed 18 Filipino production companies with contents and projects open for collaboration and international distribution.

“Philippine Cinema is at its 100th year and we are really excited because we get to bring the celebration to Cannes. Cannes has played such an important part in the promotion of Philippine Cinema worldwide, taking notice of our legendary filmmakers from Lino Brocka and Ishmael Bernal in the 70s to today's Brillante Mendoza, Raymond Red, Adolf Alix, and the many Filipino filmmakers making waves at the Festival. At the same time, Marche Du Film has been a great platform for our producers to be exposed to the world of global co-production and distribution. Because of that, we really want to maximize our annual participation, especially this year, to both the festival and the market,” said FDCP Chairperson and CEO Mary Liza Diño.

Short Film Corner and Market Screenings The Philippines also had the following participants to the Cannes Short Film Corner - Logro (Odds) by Kani Villaflor, Todas

by Patrick Eugenio, Palabas (A Country in Moving Pictures) by Noel Escondo, Milagros

by Pigeon X, Kadena (Shackles) by Arvin Belarmino, and Alaala (Memory) by Arjanmar Rebeta. This section not only screened the short films, but also held meetings with pro-

FDCP Chairperson Liza Dino, Brillante Mendoza, Raymond Red during Sandaan Talks

fessionals facilitated by experienced speakers, and conducted workshops and themed conferences designed to increase the chances of short films to be selected by international festivals, as well as to reveal the filmmakers' talents to potential partners and diffusers.

As for Market Screenings, which were open to all badge holders in the Festivals, Neomanila by Mikhail Red (PelikulaRED), Dormitoryo by Emerson Reyes (TBA Studios) , Nervous Translation by Shireen Seno (Cinema One Originals, Cinematorgrafica), Respeto by Treb Monteras (ArkeoFilms) and The Trigonal: Fight for Justice by Vincent Soberano (Cinefenio Productions) were also exhibited.

Spotlight Country in the Cannes Producers Network For the first time, the Philippine was the Spotlight Country in the Cannes Producers Network. It is an industry event, which facilitates connections between producers to help them boost their projects in development through a series of events designed to encourage international co-productions. With over 500 attendees from all over the world, producers will get to meet the best of the best.

As a Spotlight Country, the Philippines got to showcase its most promising Filipino producers who are geared and ready for co-productions with international partners, namely Alemberg Ang (Ang Sayaw ng Dalawang Kaliwang Paa, 2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten, Ang Larawan), Armi Rae Cacanindin (Kusina, I’m Drunk I Love You, Jodilerks Dela Cruz, Employee of the Month), Pedring Lopez (Binhi, Nilalang, Dark Room), Sheron Dayoc (Halaw, Children’s Show, Women of the Weeping River) and Bianca Balbuena (That Thing Called Tadhana, Hele Sa Hiwagang Hapis, Ang Panahon ng Halimaw).

This could further jumpstart the country’s efforts to get content out to the world and create new ones with international partners.

The Spotlight event also featured Cannes Best Director 2009 Brillante Mendoza, Palm d’Or Short Film 2000 winner Raymond Red, and

MOA Signing of the Consortium Against Sexual Harassment in the Entertainment Industry with Darpan Singapore

Philippine Delegation at Cannes Producers Network Spotlight Philippines

FDCP Chairperson Liza Diño as guests of honour.

Sandaan: Philippine Cinema Centennial Talks Another way the FDCP’s celebrated the 100th year of Philippine Cinema was though its hosting of Sandaan: Philippine Cinema Centennial Talks, which shared to the international community the journey and triumphs of the local cinema. For Cannes, it was a two-day panel on May 15 to 16 at the Philippine Pavilion on Filipino films that went to the Cannes Film Festival, as well as the opportunities for co-productions with the Philippines, and using it as a film location for foreign productions through the Film Philippines program.

Among the panelists were Brillante Mendoza, Raymond Red, and producers Armi Cacanindin, Alemberg Ang, Bianca Balbuena, Sheron Dayoc, and Pedring Lopez.

Consortium Against Sexual Harassment in the Entertainment Industry FDCP joined forces with Darpan Singapore and the Southeast Asia Audiovisual Association, becoming the first country to enter the Consortium against Sexual Harassment in the Entertainment Industry.

With the incredible movement of #MeToo in Hollywood and Europe, both partners believe it is important that this culture of accountability and empowerment reaches Asia as well. During the signing event entitled You and #MeToo, Ms. Sreya Sen and Chairperson Diño committed to raise awareness, lobby for legislation and inspire a much-needed cultural change in both Singapore and the Philippines, and their respective film industries. They also aim to encourage other Asian countries to join the movement and push for collective action.

Festival de Cannes and Marché Du Film ran from May 8 to 19, 2018.

FDCP Chairperson Liza Dino with CNC officials (L-R) Michel Plazanet, Deputy Director of International Affairs; Charlotte Deflassieux-Viguier, Regional Attache for Southeast Asia; and Loic Wong, Head of International Affairs

FDCP Chairperson Liza Dino with the producers and filmmaker of Short Film entry Judgement

JUNE 2018 www.expatphilippines.ph

8 23RD FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL Barbara 2017, Drama Director: Mathieu Amalric

Orpheline (Orphan) 2016, Drama Director: Arnaud des Pallières

An actress will play Barbara, the French singer. The shoot will soon start. The actress works on her character, her voice, the songs, scores, the gestures, knitting, scenes she has to learn.

Things are going okay, there's progress, development, she is even overwhelmed. The film director also works, through his encounters, through archives, music, he lets himself be submerged, overwhelmed like the actress, by the actress.

Four moments in the lives of four female characters. A little country girl caught up in a tragic game of hide-and-seek. A teenage runaway who bounces from man to man because anything is better than grim family life.

A young woman who moves to Paris and has a brush with disaster. And finally, an adult woman who thought she was safe from her own past. Little by little, these characters form one and the same heroine.

La Prière (The Prayer) 2018, Drama Director: Cédric Kahn

Personal Shopper 2016, Drama Director: Olivier Assayas

Une Vie (A Woman’s Life) 2015, Drama Director: Stéphane Brizé

To stop using drugs, 22-year-old Thomas joins an isolated community in the mountains. Run by former drug addicts, the members overcome their addiction through prayer and work. Here, Thomas discovers friendship, rules, love, and faith.

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.

Set in Normandy in 1819 and adapted from the classic French novel “Une Vie” by Guy de Maupassant, the film recounts the trials and tribulations in the life of a young woman from the day she returns home from a convent and whose heart is awakened by a local viscount.

Louise en Hiver (Louise by the Shore) 2016, Animation Director: Jean-François Laguionie

Rock'n Roll 2017, Comedy Director: Guillaume Canet

Seuls (Alone) 2014, Science Fiction Director: David Moreau

At the age of 43, Guillaume Canet has every reason to be happy. Yet his life with Marion, his son, his country house, and his horses all make him look like a has-been.

He seems to have lost his sex appeal. Guillaume understands that he must change everything, and fast. And he'll have to go to great lengths to do so, while his nearest and dearest look on with amazement.

Leïla, 16, wakes up in an empty city. Where are her parents?

Where has everyone gone?

Thinking she must be the sole survivor of a mysterious catastrophe, Leïla wanders the strangely deserted streets of Fortville and eventually meets four other teenagers. Together, they join forces and attempt to survive in a desolate and increasingly hostile world. But are they really alone?

Taxi 5 2018, Action Director: Franck Gastambide

Cézanne et moi (Cézanne and I) 2016, Drama Director: Danièle Thompson

At the end of summer, an old lady watches as the last train of the season leaves the small seaside station of Biligen without her.

The town is deserted. The weather rapidly deteriorates and the arrival of high tides cuts electricity and all means of communication. Fragile and neat, not half as tough as Robinson, Louise may not survive winter.

Yves Saint Laurent 2014, Drama Director: Jalil Lespert Paris, 1957. Barely 21 years old, Yves Saint Laurent is handed the reins of the prestigious fashion house founded by Christian Dior, who has recently died. During his first fashion show, which is a triumph, he meets Pierre Bergé.

This encounter will change his life. Lovers and business partners, three years later, the two men become partners and form the Yves Saint Laurent label.

Despite his obsessions and his inner demons, Yves Saint Laurent gets ready to revolutionize the world of fashion with his modern and iconoclastic approach.

Voyage à travers le cinéma français (A Journey Through French Cinema) 2016, Documentary Director: Bertrand Tavernier This work as a citizen and a spy, as an explorer and a painter, as a columnist and an adventurer that has been described so well by many authors, from Casanova to Gilles Perrault, is a beautiful definition of a filmmaker that we want to apply to Renoir, Becker, to the Vigo of L'Atlante, to Duvivier, as well as to Truffaut and Demy, to Max Ophuls and also to Bresson. And to these lesser known filmmakers, Grangier, Gréville, or Sacha, whom through a scene or a film, illuminate an emotion, reveal surprising truths. I would like this film to be an act of gratitude to all the filmmakers, scriptwriters, actors, and musicians who suddenly appeared in my life. Memory warms us up: this film is a bit of coal for winter nights.

Sylvain Marot, a Parisian cop and exceptional driver, is transferred to the Marseille Municipal Police against his will.

Ex-commissioner Gibert, who has become city mayor and the lowest in the polls, entrusts him with the mission to stop the formidable "Gang of Italians" who steals jewelry with the help of the powerful Ferrari. But to do this, Marot will have no choice but to work with Eddy Maklouf, the grand-nephew of the celebrity Daniel and the worst driver in Marseille, but the only one to have recovered the legendary white TAXI.

Polina, danser sa vie (Polina) 2016, Drama Director: Angelin Preljocaj, Valérie Müller-Preljocaj Moscow, early 90s. Polina, aged 8, is a gifted ballerina. Coming from a modest background, she joins the prestigious school of Professor Bojinsky, who trains dancers for the Bolshoi. He immediately grasps her tremendous potential and makes her work so hard that, at only 18, her dream finally comes true as she enters the prestigious Bolshoi.

This is when she meets Adrien, a charming French dancer. He will help her to discover not only love, but more importantly, a new form of dance, more contemporary and expressive, a kind of dance that will change her life forever. From Moscow to Aix-En-Provence and Antwerp, from success to disillusion, we follow Polina's incredible destiny.

Épouse-moi mon pote (Marry Me, Dude) 2017, Comedy Director: Tarek Boudali Yassine, a young Moroccan man, comes to Paris to study architecture on a student visa. But due to an unfortunate incident, he fails his exams, loses his visa, and finds himself an illegal immigrant in France. To remedy the situation, he marries his best friend. Just when he thinks everything is taken care of, a tenacious immigration investigator decides to follow them to make sure it wasn't a sham marriage.

They were rebels, fearless and curious, and they loved each other the way you love when you’re 13.

Hopes, doubts, girls, dreams of glory: they shared it all. Paul is rich and Emile poor. They haunt the same places, sleep with the same women, and spit together on the bourgeoisie that spits right back.

They draw by day the models with whom they spend their nights, and hop on a train for 30 hours just to catch a sunset. Now, Paul Cézanne is an artist and Emile Zola a writer.

Fame has passed Paul by while Emile has it all: glory, money, and a perfect wife – the woman Paul used to be in love with. They judge each other, admire each other, confront each other. They lose touch and meet again, like a couple that cannot stop loving each other.

Django 2016, Drama Director: Étienne Comar Paris, 1943. During the German Occupation, gypsy Django Reinhardt, a true hero of the guitar, is at the peak of his career.

Every night, he has Paris reeling to his swing music at the Folies Bergères, while his gypsy brethren are hunted down and massacred throughout Europe. When the German propaganda ministry wants to send him to Berlin for a series of concerts, he senses imminent danger and decides to flee to Switzerland with the help of one of his admirers, Louise de Klerk. He travels to Thonon-les-Bains, on the bank of Lake Geneva, with his pregnant wife, Naguine, and his mother, Negros, but their escape is more complicated than anticipated. The three end up plunged into the turmoil of World War 2. During these difficult times, Django Reinhardt remained an exceptional performer and composer who resisted with his art and his sense of humor, constantly seeking a form of musical perfection.

JUNE 2018 www.expatphilippines.ph

23RD FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL 9

Jean-Pierre Melville Centennial Retrospective

Homage to Philippine Cinema Bagahe (The Baggage) Drama Director: Zig Dulay

To celebrate the centenary of one of the most influential directors of all time, Institut Français has curated a retrospective of masterpieces by the iconic director, Jean-Pierre Melville – the master of French film noir.

Le Cercle rouge (The Red Circle) 1970, Drama Corey is a cool, aristocratic thief, released from prison on the same day that Vogel, a murderer, escapes from the custody of the patient Mattei, a cat-loving police superintendent. Corey robs Rico, his mob boss, then enlists Vogel and an ex-police sharpshooter, Jansen, in a jewel heist. While Corey is harried by the vengeful Rico, Mattei pressures Santi, a nightclub owner and pimp, to help him trap the thieves. Over all hangs the judgment of the police directeur, that every man is guilty.

24 heures dans la vie d’un clown (24 Hours in the Life of a Clown) 1946, Comedy A day in the life of Beby the clown and his partner, Maïs, who find their inspiration and gags in the streets, which they then perform at night in the circus.

The narrative unfolds through two characters, Maurice and Silien, and consistently switches back and forth between them, leading the audience to grasp randomly for a distinct main character or hero (despite the fact that both are criminal antiheroes). Through Maurice and Silien’s actions, the film explores just how deeply qualities such as friendship and loyalty run.

Le Doulos begins by introducing us to Maurice, an ex-con, just released from prison after serving a six-year sentence. He then murders his friend, Gilbert, and steals the jewels he had been hiding, products of a recent heist. Shortly afterwards, Maurice plans a heist of a rich man’s estate and shares his plan with Silien, who is rumored to be a police informant. Silien is later picked up and questioned by the police. The film unfolds from there, incorporating a number of plot twists revealed through Melville’s traditionally styled hard-boiled dialogue and picturesque visuals.

'Armée des ombres (Army of Shadow) 1969,

Anino (Shadows) 2000, Short film Director: Raymond Red

France, 1942, during the occupation. Philippe Gerbier, a civil engineer, is one of the French Resistance's chiefs. Given away by a traitor, he is interned in a camp. He manages to escape, and joins his network at Marseilles, where he makes the traitor be executed... This nonspectacular movie (do not expect any Rambo or Robin Hood) shows us rigorously and austerely the everyday of the French Resistants : their solitude, their fears, their relationships, the arrests, the forwarding of orders and their carrying out...

A down and out church photographer, hungry and penniless, wanders from the church, through the shadows of the imposing city and clashes with its various mysterious characters.

In a small town in occupied France in 1941, the German officer, Werner Von Ebrennac is billeted in the house of the uncle and his niece.

The uncle and niece refuse to speak to him, but each evening the officer warms himself by the fire and talks of his country, his music, and his idealistic views of the relationship between France and Germany. That is, until he visits Paris and discovers what is really going on...

In Paris's Montmartre district, everyone knows Bob, a well-dressed compulsive gambler. He's generous, moralistic, drives a two-toned convertible coupe, lives in a swank apartment, and has the respect of the police. But he's on a losing streak, and even when he hits it big at the track, he loses at the Deauville casino. When he learns that the casino keeps a fortune on Grand Prix weekend, he plots a robbery. Subplots trace a seemingly innocent coquette's social climb and the greed of a croupier's wife who betrays the thieves.

23 years of bringing some of the best of French cinema to the Filipino audience French cinema has found an audience in the Philippines.

In 23 years, the French Film Festival has introduced contemporary French films to the movie-going public of Manila and Cebu. While the commercial circuit continues to be dominated by Hollywood blockbusters, international festivals have provided Filipinos an alternative programming that gives them the chance to see a different kind of cinema – to witness stories that look into human values, relationships, and socio-economic conditions in contemporary French society that they may, sometimes surprisingly, identify with.

Commercial theaters have opened their doors to festivals to offer their loyal clients a diversity in film choices, even for limited periods. This year, the Ayala Cinemas are hosting the French Film Festival in several venues in Metro Manila: Greenbelt 3 in Makati City, Central Square in Bonifacio High Street, Taguig, and UP Town Center in Quezon City, as well as in Ayala Center in Cebu and Abreeza Mall in Davao!

Léon Morin Prêtre (Léon Morin, Priest) 1961, Drama

Bob Le Flambeur 1956, Film Noir

Himapapawid (Manila Skies) 2009, Drama Director: Raymond Red Manila Skies is the story of a desperate, simple man from the countryside trying to make a living in the metropolis of Manila. He keeps stumbling as he moves from one 'station of the cross' to another. In desperation, he joins an amateur gang plotting a heist, to get even with a corrupt employer. This ultimately goes wayward and ends in devastation. Further hounded by guilt that his father is helplessly ill, he draws his last straw and plots the insane hijacking of a plane to finally take him to his ultimate destination - home or hell.

Le Silence de la mer 1948, Drama

Le Doulos (Doulos : The Finger Man) 1961, Film Noir

Bagahe tells the story of an OFW, Mercy Agbunag. As the whole family celebrates her homecoming, NBI agents appear at the doorstep to invite Mercy to join them for an interrogation about the case of a newborn child thrown into a trash bin of an airplane toilet. She is believed to be a suspect. As Mercy undergoes a rigid examination of testimonies and pieces of evidence, she is turned over to different social entities – police, hospital, shelter, media, church, and bureaucrats. What unfolds is the whole truth behind a mother who is abused, and the measures in which she is taken care of by her motherland.

In a small French town during the Occupation, Barny (Riva) is a young, wayward, sexually frustrated widow, living with her little girl. She is also a communist militant who long ago decided that the easiest way was the best. One day she enters a church, randomly chooses a priest (Belmondo) to confess to and, while in confessional, attempts to provoke him by criticizing Catholicism. Instead of being affronted, the priest engages her in an intellectual discussion regarding religion.

The priest is Leon Morin, young, handsome, smart and altruistic.

He invites Barny to continue the conversation outside of confessional. She begins regularly seeing him and is impressed by his moral strength, while he makes it his mission to steer her onto the right path.

The 2018 selection of the French Film Festival features current releases from Parisian theaters and films that show different aspects of French society. Inherently, arts and culture are recurring themes: Cézanne et Moi portrays the friendship between painter Paul Cézanne and writer Emile Zola, Une Vie is an adaptation of the first novel of Guy de Maupassant, and Polina, which focuses on the coming of age of a ballerina, directed by no less than world-renown choreographer, Prelocaj! The fashionable crowd will find delight in knowing more of the life of fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent, while jazz aficionados will tap their feet to the scenes from Django. Seuls depicts the anguish of the younger generation while La Prière shows how even in this day and age, prayer or spirituality can still be a means of salvation.

As Philippine cinema celebrates 100 years, the French Film Festival pays tribute to the centennial of the birth of one of France’s great directors, Jean-Pierre Melville. A selection of seven films will give cinephiles a taste of French film noir, from the short film 24 heurs dans la vie d’un clown, to full features Le Silence de la Mer and L’Armée des Ombres which are set during the Second World War, and early film noir, detective, crime and police thrillers Bob le Flambeur, Le Doulos, and Le Cercle Rouge.

Indeed, the 23rd French Film Festival, more than ever, gives its audience a little of everything.

I echo the French Ambassador in saying, sit back, relax, and… bon film!

Martin Macalintal Audiovisual Attaché

tHE 23RD FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL ORGANIZED BY

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EVENTS 13

MPPC holds Chaine des Rotisseurs Bailliage Cebu Induction and Gala Dinner

C

ebu’s most elegant and glamorous came together for an evening of heavenly music, lavish cuisine, and vintage wines as Marco Polo Plaza Cebu (MPPC) hosted Chaine des Rotisseurs Bailliage Cebu’s 25th Induction and Gala Dinner with the theme Renaissance: The Marriage of Classical Music, Food, and Wine. Known for their unbreakable partnership, it was the sixth time for the hotel to hold one of the country’s grandest dining events. Led by MPPC general manager Brian Connelly and director of sales and marketing Lara Constantino-Scarrow, the guests entered the beautifully-decorated ballroom to witness Chaine des Rotisseurs Bailliage Cebu’s induction and awarding ceremonies, which were presided over by Bailli Delegue in the Philippines Michel Lhuillier along with Chaine des Rotisseurs Bailliage Cebu board of directors led by Bailli de Cebu Amparito Lhuillier. A Gala Dinner followed which had the Cebu Philharmonic Orchestra led by maestro Jiovanni Tabada enchanting the crowd with classical music. It was a magical celebration of enjoying the finer things in life.

Congratulations to Marco Polo Plaza Cebu for a successful event! To stay updated on all hotel activities and promotions, like Marco Polo Plaza Cebu on http://www.facebook.com/marcopolocebu, call (032) 253-1111, or e-mail mpplaza@marcopolohotels.com.

Michel and Amparito Lhuillier

(From left) Marco Polo Plaza Cebu (MPPC) banquet service manager Cyril Escorido, restaurants, bars & events (RB&E) manager Joward Tongco, executive chef Juanito Abangan and executive sous chef Luigi Mangubat, Chaine des Rotisseurs Bailliage de Cebu board of directors Dr. Nestor Alonso, Dr. Vivina Chiu and Bailli de Cebu Amparito Lhuillier, MPPC general manager Brian Connelly, Bailli Delegue in the Philippines Michel Lhuillier, Chaine des Rotisseurs Bailliage de Cebu board of directors Teresin Mendezona, Jaime Picornell and David Sharpe, MPPC pastry chef Gina Arceo, Marco Polo Ortigas executive pastry chef Darmo Guevara and Marco Polo Davao executive chef Alex Destriza

Maritess and Herve Lampert

Brian Connelly with MPPC director of sales and marketing Lara Constantino-Scarrow

Julie Najar, Joward Tongco and Marco Polo Davao general manager Dottie Würgler-Cronin

U.S. consular agent Glenn Loop and wife Honey

Lara Constantino-Scarrow, Teresin Mendezona and Tess Catipay

Jaime Picornell with MPPC communications manager Manna Alcaraz

Dr. Adim and Kwin Kim

(From left) Stephan Sieberg, Carlo Cordaro, Marguerite Lhuillier, Sandra Pesch, Juergen Pesch and Stefanie Sieberg

JUNE 2018 www.expatphilippines.ph

14 FEATURES

Farmer by Day, Dancer by Night Days are fun at The Farmhouse by EDL. Evenings are no different.

Read up on an alternative destination that offers a crash course on smart farm living, and a secluded haven to foster bonds.

Words by and CELINE MURILLO Additional photos by MARTIN SAN DIEGO

I

'll give you Jollibee GCs," said one of my companions. She was upping the ante just so I would go and catch a chicken.

It was a bright morning in late January and we were having a tour of The Farmhouse

by EDL. We were having a stopover at the free-range chicken coops. While most of my companions remained outside the wiremesh fence, I stood amidst dappled-colored hens.

I narrowed my eyes, considering the challenge.

"You serious?"

"Yes!" I paused.

"Alright," I said, grabbing a nearby hen's tail feathers as soon as I did – swiftly and effortlessly if I may say so myself.

Cradling the tawny fowl in my arms, I beamed as my companions cheered. If it looked like I knew what I was doing, it's because I did. My father raised (and still is raising) poultry for eggs and indulged (still is indulging) in cockfights from time to time.

So, yes, I knew my way around chickens.

Farm tour With gift certificates in the bag, the de-

light of the farm tour grew tenfold. From the coops, we hopped on a carabao-drawn carriage and proceeded to the barn. We got to milk the cows with our hands and see earthworms churning out fertilizers.

We also got to learn how to make salted eggs. Personally, I never liked salted eggs, and I've always wondered why anyone would go through such great lengths for something that tasted mediocre (but that’s just me). Turns out, making them was fairly easy. All you need is salt and dirt.

After the demo, we checked out the farm's incubators. I found the lined-up eggs inside the machines somehow satisfying.

The way eggs are tested for viability is also interesting, and surprisingly easy: you arrange them on a tray, and pass them by a light bulb. The specifics of the practice escape me, but apparently you can tell if an egg is addled or not by the way the light shines through the shell.

In addition to this, The Farmhouse also has a plot of land dedicated to growing vegetables like tomatoes and eggplants. They also raise pigs in addition to the chickens and the cows. The place is organic, using natural fertilizers and herbicides. The food

Posing amongst chickens

served here is as fresh as it gets, and you're also afforded peace and quiet.

Lunar spectacle The night before, however, instead of taking to our comfortable rooms to savor the relative seclusion of the place, we opted to make the most of this exclusivity.

The farm tour was great, don't get me wrong. The food, of course, was superb. But we simply couldn't overlook the expansive garden, the pool, and the open bar. Throw in the fact that one of our friends brought in a veritable DJ system, and that a Super Blue Blood Moon hung over the clear night sky, and, well, you really couldn't blame us if we held a spontaneous lunar shindig.

The venue was perfect for it. In the middle of the yard was a zigzagging tree festooned by orbs of yellow light. A huddle of lawn chairs surrounded it. On one side was the pool, a mesmerizing pale blue. The bar glowed like a beacon next to it, while above, the massive moon cast its silver light. The rest of the area made room for an outdoor dance floor.

I threw my shoes off and walked barefooted in the grass, urging my other companions to close their laptops and embrace the lunar spectacle. Drinks were handed out,

and soon, we were all dancing to "Always" by Erasure.

Some of my friends took a dip in the pool and at one point I came to check up on them. It was a big mistake, for after a few moments, I found myself being dragged into the water. It was three against one so I let myself be soaked, pants and all.

Drenched in water and in fun, the night turned deeper and somehow brighter. The music even more inviting. I was dripping wet but I kept dancing, showing off my perfect cartwheels – vestiges of my gymnastics training – as one does.

That night was one of my best memories.

I'm not saying you go to EDL Farm to have a party, but if you think this farm is meh with its rural offerings and provincial life, well, you're wrong. What I'm saying is learn and experience as much as you can about organic farming during daytime, and if you still have the energy for it, stay the night and, you know, kick off your shoes and dance under the stars.

The Farmhouse by EDL is located at EDL Dr., Sitio Nueve, Barangay Dolores, Capas, Tarlac. For more information, contact Edgar Duenas at (0917) 709-6908 or (045) 2063345.

Experience milking cows the old-fashioned way

Learn how to make salted eggs

Chill spot by The Farm's accomodations

The pool and bar

JUNE 2018 www.expatphilippines.ph

NEWS 15

Boracay bookings diverted to Cebu

By RICHARD RAMOS

B

oracay Island’s six-month closure has resulted in at least 1,400 bookings for the months of April to June having been diverted to neighboring holiday destinations Cebu and Bohol. This was according to the President of the Cebu Alliance of Tour Operations Specialists (CATOS) Alice Queblatin.

But while the influx of bookings serve as a welcome development for other destinations in the Visayas region, it has also posed quite a challenge for hotels’ and resorts’ management.

“Almost all want to stay at the beach and not at city hotels. And they want the same resort. This creates a problem with room occupancy and the resorts are trying their best to straighten out the details and requests of the visitors,” Queblatin said.

In a press conference organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region VII, the CATOS president added that the tour operators are upgrading the activities of Cebu and Bohol, so the new wave of visitors may also savor more of the local experiences and entice them to extend their stays.

Local tours such as the “Suroy-Suroy Sugbo” (Travel, travel Cebu) in the Camotes Islands, whale watching in Oslob, faith tourism, and other countryside attractions have lured in consistently large numbers of visitors through the years.

“Cebu is much more than a two-night,

three-day destination. We have a lot to offer. Cebu also serves as the jump-off point to other cities and provinces. This is especially vital to Europeans since they usually go on two-week vacations while hopping from one place to another.”

Environmental initiatives During the briefing, Queblatin also commended the environmental initiatives taken by Cebu tourist hotspots town officials of to ensure that they do not suffer the same faith as Boracay. Among these places are Sumilon Island in Oslob, Mactan, and Bantayan Island, where cleanup drives and other conservation thrusts have become a major part of operations.

In Lapu-Lapu City, for instance, Mayor Paz Radaza recently embarked on a massive drive to clear the Mactan coastline of illegal settlers in order to prevent further damage to the marine environment, and to pave the way for the new properties to complete their construction requirements in the next several months.

The upcoming properties include Megaworld’s Mactan Newtown Properties, Sheraton, Dusit Thani, Seascape by Robinson’s Land, and Seagrove by Taft Properties and Ayala Land Inc., all situated along the Punta Engano area.

Tourism stronghold Over the years, Cebu has strengthened

Sumilon Island's gorgeous sand bar

its hold as a tourism magnet, providing other reasons for people to come. It has become an English as a Second Language (ESL) destination, a MICE hub, and investment haven, adding to its wealth of resorts, adventure tourism and natural attractions. DOT VII Regional Director Shalamar Hofer Tamano pointed out that Cebu had the lion’s share of Central Visayas foreign tourist arrivals in 2017, garnering 78 percent of the 2.9 million ar-

rivals. Bohol was a distant second, having 15 percent (444,207) arrivals last year.

Korea, China, and Japan comprised the three largest foreign markets in the region, respectively. Koreans accounted for 36 percent (895,776) of the total arrivals, followed by the Chinese (429,306), which represented the biggest increase (75 percent) among all markets. It was the first time Chinese arrivals outnumbered that of Japan’s.

WOLFGANG'S STEAKHOUSE

by WOLFGANG ZWIENER

RAISING THE STEAKS

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse complements its steaks with an equally delectable menu that have made it a go-to dining destination not just for occasions that truly matter, but also for your everyday lunch hankering.

The renowned New York steakhouse launches introduces Manila to a lunch set menu that gives discerning diners a taste of The Wolfgang Experience

W

olfgang’s Steakhouse has come a long way from its historic Park Avenue location – quite literally. In the 14 years since Wolfgang Zwiener opened his flagship restaurant in what used to be the Vanderbilt Hotel in Manhattan, the esteemed New York steakhouse has delighted steak cognoscenti across both US coasts—from Hawaii and Beverly Hills, to Florida—and more recently, all the way to Asia.

Nineteen locations in – with potential partnerships in Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Australia on the brew – Zwiener’s Grade A meats maintain the top-shelf quality that have made the distinct New York steakhouse experience a truly memorable one.

The Seafood Taster includes Tuna Tartar, Lobster Salad and Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail

MEAT OF THE MATTER

While its sense of history, and undeniable Big Apple panache have led to Wolfgang’s Steakhouse’s reputation to precede the opening of every new location, its commitment to using only the best quality meats you can find on the market is, ultimately, what continues to make the brand live up to the hype.

Handpicked USDA Prime and Black Angus (part of only two percent of all beef in the US that attain “Prime” rating), and dryaged onsite for an average of 28 days, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse’s tender, flavorful sub-primal cuts have raised the stakes wherever it has landed.

And though its steaks will always inevitably be where the spotlight is shone, a visit to Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is called an experience for a reason. From its appetizers and salads, to its decadent desserts, and extensive wine selection of the best global brands—Wolfgang’s Steakhouse complements its steaks with an equally delectable menu that have made it a go-to dining destination not just for occasions that truly matter, but also for your everyday lunch hankering.

The Wolfgang Experience with the Loco Moco, Caesar Salad with Sizzling Canadian Bacon and New York-style Cheesecake

LUNCH IS SERVED

Laconically called The Wolfgang Experience, the lunch course provides diners four choices based on the highly popular lunch menu in its Japanese locations, and offers a taste of all the gastronomic goodness you can indulge in at Wolfgang’s Steakhouse.

Have your pick from four entrees: Loco Moco, and Fish of the Day; USDA Prime Filet Mignon, and USDA Prime Dry-Aged Rib Eye Steak (both come with Mashed Potato and Creamed Spinach). All four entrees come with your choice of soup or salad, and dessert of the day. You can also opt to start your lunch course off with the Seafood Taster (Tuna Tartar, Lobster Salad, and Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail).

The Wolfgang Experience, along with Wolfgang's Steakhouse's other Lunch Specials are available weekdays 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

(Resorts World Manila), and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (The Podium).

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is located at 2/F Newport Mall, Resorts World Manila, Pasay City, and at The Podium, 18 ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City. For inquiries and reservations, contact (0995) 610-2361 (Resorts World Manila), and (0917) 702-8913 (The Podium), or visit www.wolfgangssteakhouse.ph.

The Wolfgang Experience with the USDA Prime Dry-Aged Rib Eye Steak, Seafood Taster, Mushroom Soup, Creamed Spinach, Mashed Potatoes, and New York-style Cheesecake