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N E W S PA P E R May 29-June 11, 2016 Vol. XXXIV No. 17

JUNE 8 to 14, 2016

Greenbelt 3 Cinemas Bonifacio High Street Cinemas Cinematheque Centre Manila

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W H AT ' S O N C E BU

MAY 29JUNE 11, 2016

by RICHARD RAMOS

Vikings, the Philippines’ largest buffet restaurant, just opened its first branch in Cebu at the second level of SM City Cebu. The place has been fully packed for lunch and dinner since then as management has provided seating and numbers for dozens of waiting patrons. Indulge in over 400 mouth-watering cuisines across the world one plate at a time from European to Asian to American. For weekdays, adults are charged PhP688 for lunch and PhP888 for dinner. Kids below four feet are charged a mere PhP188 and PhP288, respectively. For weekends and holidays, adults are charged PhP888 for lunch and dinner. Kids between 3.1 to 4 feet are at PhP288 only while those at 4.1 to 4.6 feet are charged PhP588. People aged 75 and over pay half price daily.

Avida Land and Real Living (RL) Magazine have partnered to create its first-ever RL-inspired model units in Cebu situated at the Cebu IT Park. RL worked with three noted Cebu talents: furniture and interior

designer Maybelline Te, interior designer Hannah Lim, and architect and designer Maya Franco to create the overall design concepts, select and purchase all the furniture and accessories, and bring each of the three model units to life all under a deadline. Each unit; 23 square meter studio, 40 square meter one-bedroom unit, and a 57 square meter two-bedroom unit; was designed with a different target homeowner in mind. Results are distinctly unique and non-commercialized presentations, a far cry from the staid condo setting.

Philippine Competition Commission recently held a public consultation on the Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR) of Republic Act No. 10667 or the Philippine Competition Act re anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominant positions, and due process of R. A. 10667. Parties involved in mergers and acquisitions exceeding PhP1 billion are now prohibited from consummating their agreement until 30 days after notifying the commission in the

form. Agreements consummated without notifying the commission will be subjected to an administrative fine of one percent to five percent of the value of the transaction. This also covers foreign companies if engaged in international transactions in the country. Case-to case basis appli es.

Shangri-La Mactan Resort & Spa hosted a wine dinner headed by Pascal Jolivet, the French wine manufacturer. The event paired off various courses with corresponding wine selections at the majestic Cowrie Cove. For starters, we had the Pascal Jolivet Attitude Sauvignon Blanc 2014 along with the sautéed scallop with lobster tartare, poached spring onion and green apple sauce. Next was the Pascal Jolivet Sancerre Blanc 2014 with the jumbo prawn confit and strawberry salad and tomato cocktail. Main course was the roasted salmon with radish puree, salmon roe and asparagus salad with the Pouilly Fume 2013. Then came Chef Paolo’s cheesecake

with pear and cream chantilly with the Attitude Pinot Noir 2013.

LEGO, dubbed “Toy of the Century” by Fortune Magazine in 2000, and the British Association of Toy Retailers opened up a Lego Corner at the third level of Rustan’s Cebu, Ayala Center Cebu.

Three exciting building competitions for three children’s age groups (4 to 6, 7 to 10, 11 to 14) were held to showcase the kiddie talents. The place comes complete with a life-sized LEGO statue, miniature town, collectibles and pieces, and a variety of LEGO sets; serving as the ultimate dream destination for the young and young at heart. Its simple form and interlocking principle offer everyone unlimited building possibilities and express a world without limits. LAJ Marketing Philippines, Inc. is the exclusive distributor of LEGO in the Philippines.

New tourism infra to further boost Cebu economy

By RICHARD RAMOS

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ccording to the Department of Tourism, Cebu still reigns as the country’s foremost tourism hotspot with over four million domestic and international arrivals in 2014, easily outpacing second-ranked Metro Manila with its 1.871 million.

Ranking third, fourth and fifth respectively are Camarines Sur (1.861 million), Davao del Sur (1.553 million), and Boracay Island with 1.472 million. Other provinces in the top 10 are Pampanga, Zambales, Negros Occidental, Laguna, and Benguet.

Surprisingly, Palawan ranked only 12th while Bohol, a perennial favorite tourism hotspot, was missing in the top 15. However, the latter’s absence can be traced to the hangover effects of Typhoon Yolanda and a destructive earthquake which affected much of their tourism infrastructure in 2013.

According to Julius Guevara, director of Research and Advisory Services of Colliers International, several new large-scale tourism and business projects have since taken off in Cebu in recent years as more local and foreign investors continue to have firm confidence in the thriving business climate.

Foremost here is the ongoing construction of the PhP17.5-billion Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) Passenger Terminal under the management of GMR-Megawide through its subsidiary GMR-Cebu Airport Corporation (GMR-CAC).

With a present 15.5 percent completion rate as of April 2016, target date of completion is 2018. The new terminal is badly needed to cope with the expected entry of more foreign flights, airlines and visitors in the coming months.

To note, three new regular overseas flights to Xiamen, Taipei, and Dubai were recently inaugurated within a four-day period at the MCIA last April, thus speaking volumes of Cebu’s drawing power as a tourism and business hub.

Another giant project is the third bridge, an eight-kilometer, Php28-billion joint venture agreement recently forged between Metro Pacific Tollways Development Corp. (MPTDC)

and the Cordova municipal government.

Dubbed the Cebu-Cordova bridge, the project covers the construction of the connections between the South Road Properties (SRP) in Cebu and Cordova, the main bridge structure viaduct causeway, roadway, and toll facilities.

Guevara declared that the new bridge is expected to decongest the traffic along the two existing bridges between Mandaue and Mactan, lower the cost of doing business between the two cities, and ease travel to key tourism spots.

Other ongoing projects include the Savoy Hotel (566 rooms) by Megaworld Corp, Belmont Luxury Hotel in Mactan Newtown (over 500 rooms), and the recently-expanded Gold-

en Prince Hotel along Archbishop Reyes Ave. Other projects of smaller proportions are the Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort with over 250 rooms, and The Residences at the Sheraton Cebu with 188 rooms. Target date of completion for both properties is 2020.

Among the major projects launched last year was the Galleria Residences with 207 units by Robinson’s Land, Vista Suarez with 519 units by Vista Land, The Alcoves with 480 units by Ayala Land Premier, and the Serulyan Tower with 86 units by Fil-invest Land.

Not mentioned, however, is the upcoming 700-room Bai Hotel fronting the defunct Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) situated at the Mandaue North Reclamation Area.

Also going unmentioned is the recentlycompleted Big Hotel located beside the City Times Square also at the Mandaue South Reclamation Area. This year, hotel management has since embarked on the construction of Big Suites, an all-suites hotel situated a block away.

All in all, Cebu’s overall room supply stands at 10,747 of which Cebu City has 6,795, Lapu-lapu City has 3,537 and Mandaue City has 415.

Guevara spoke on the topic “Cebu Market Outlook” in a real estate forum subbed “Choosing Cebu for Real Estate Investments and Development: Outlook, Opportunities, and Challenges” organized by Colliers International.

The upcoming 20-hectare Mandani Bay along the Mandaue City coastline promises to change the economic landscape of the city for good.

MAY 29JUNE 11, 2016

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NEWS

Children’s rights group opposes Duterte’s curfew plans

By VIA BAROMA

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t a recent press conference in Davao City, President-elect Rodrigo Duterte announced his plans to impose a national curfew for minors, which would entail having the parents arrested for minors breaking the curfew.

“The police should not arrest minors. They do not have the discernment of what they are doing out there. Arrest the parents instead,” Duterte said.

The curfew will cover only unsupervised minors loitering the streets, or children unaccompanied by their parents or guardians between 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. – a policy modeled after Davao City’s regulations.

In a CNN report, Duterte said he would impose the curfew across the country in order to “protect the children.”

If this becomes a national policy, police authorities will be instructed to arrest parents for “abandonment of the minors and putting the life of the minors in jeopardy,” Duterte said in a Rappler report.

Meanwhile, minors would be taken into police custody or concerned government agencies like the Department of Social Welfare Development (DSWD).

The proclamation was met with strong opposition from children’s rights group Bahay Tuluyan.

Discipline, not jail Bahay Tuluyan, a children’s rights organization with 29 years of experience working

with children in need of special protection released a statement after Duterte announced his curfew plans.

“Jailing parents for this will only cause trauma to children and deeply damage already fragile families. Duterte’s proposal fundamentally undermines children’s rights not to be separated from their families and to use institutional shelter only as a last resort,” the group said.

“Penalizing parents won’t necessarily make them good parents,” said Education Undersecretary Alberto Muyot of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council ( JJWC), a government body attached to and chaired by DSWD. “The most important thing is for parents to know their responsibility. Perhaps it’s not right to imprison them right away. There should be warnings or sanctions first.” Muyot was quoted in a Rappler report.

Advocates added that these children are left wandering the streets at night since they do not have permanent homes, and insist that instead of imprisonment, there should be positive disciplining for parents.

Lawyer Marijoy Segui, executive director of the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) said that training like the Family Development Sessions of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program should instead be imposed.

DSWD Undersecretary Vilma Cabrera echoed their concerns, saying that the lives of the minors would worsen if their parents were

to be imprisoned.

Criminalizing poor for being poor “We believe that this plan makes ‘protection’ punitive, poses unacceptable dangers to children, and is reactive, shortsighted and superficial,” Bahay Tuluyan said in a statement.

The group also pointed out that taking away Photo courtsey of Peopleschoice.com children from their families increases the likelihood of abuse, particularly with the “appalling situation inside government-run facilities like Manila’s Reception and Action Center, which according to Bahay Tuluyan has “complete lack of capacity to provide appropriate protection for children.”

Bahay Tuluyan describes Duterte’s plan as a ruling that “criminalizes the poor for being poor” and insist that it’s only addressing the symptoms of the problem.

They suggested that instead of imprisonment of the parents, Duterte should provide

accessible childcare services, adequate housing, and decent livelihood.

“Removing children from out sight and imprisoning their parents is a superficial solution that will not resolve the underlying issue but just lead to further marginalization and vulnerability,” the group said.

“We hope to be able to work with the new Philippine government to continue building a nation where the human dignity is a sacrosanct and all human rights, children’s and adults’, are respected, protected and fulfilled.”

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G RU B H U B

MAY 29JUNE 11, 2016

Japanese craving satisfied easy

N E W S PA P E R The Philippines’ forum for international readers since 1981

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

235 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City

A new and exciting Japanese dining experience awaits at Watami Grill and Sushi Bar

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ooking for an exciting place to indulge your love of Japanese food? Head off to the new Watami Grill and Sushi Bar at Uptown Mall in BGC. This dining concept adopts the theme of izakayas in Japan—small drinking establishments often located in subway stations and in virtually every alley, which cater to tired, hungry locals looking to unwind with co-workers before calling it a day. It’s a Japanese-style gastropub, where guests eat, drink, laugh and eat some more over cold beers or sake.

If that sounds like a fun place, that’s because Watami Grill and Sushi Bar is meant to be that way – down-to-earth and roll-up yoursleeves kind of chill. It is smaller and more casual than the other two Watami branches in Mall of Asia and Shangri-La Mall but nevertheless stays true to the brand’s standard of great food and service.

Authentic eats, affordable prices The fare consists of different kinds of yakitori and other skewers, nigiri sushi, sashimi and grilled seafood which all go perfectly with cold beer. It also serves staple Japanese dishes such as rice bowls, sushi rolls, tempura and original Watami recipes include the restaurant’s famous Watami salad—a refreshing bowl of mixed greens, tomatoes, grilled teriyaki chicken, fresh shrimp and crispy wonton chips topped with a special paste tuna dress-

ing.

The dishes are very affordable. Prices for its skewers, for instance, range from PhP40 to PhP145, allowing guests to order different varieties and share with friends. Items to try are the Bacon Asparagus, Baby Octopus, Pork and Enoki, Roasted Beef and Spring Onion Roll and Bacon Quail Egg. If you have no idea where to start, order a platter of assorted skewers instead for less than PhP300.

Two pieces of nigiri sushi are just the perfect portion to tease the taste buds. Sample one of each on the menu to satisfy your umami craving and pay only PhP80 to PhP185 for each plate. Its sushi rolls, meanwhile, are meant for sharing and features customer favorites like California Maki, Spicy Salmon Tempura, Special Assorted Irodori Sushi and Assorted Salmon Sushi and Sashimi.

If you come in with an empty stomach, it’s best to order any of their savory rice bowl dishes brimming with authentic Japanese flavors. Salmon Flake Rice, Beef Rice Bowl with Hot Spring Egg in Tokyo Style, Chasu Rice, Beef Pepper Rice and Chicken and Egg Rice Bowl are just some of the choices.

Complementing all these delicious food is a selection of alcoholic beverages that include beer, wine, shots, cocktails and Japanese liquor aside from the staple non-alcoholic drinks like sodas, coffee and iced tea.

Ready for a night of fun, food, and booze?

and for sales and advertising: expatcomsales@gmail.com

The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material.

Grilled Swordfish

Text and photos by CHING DEE

You can also reach us at: expatmag@gmail.com

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.

Daikiri

Black Sheep: Deliciously rebellious

Our telephone numbers: (+632) 840-2996 or (+632) 812-0987; Fax (+632) 840-2988

Cebu Mailing Address: MJ. Cuenco Avenue cor. C. Mina St., Mabolo, Cebu City Telefax: (032) 412-8000

Visit Watami Grill and Sushi Bar at Uptown Mall in BGC. Kampai!

To know more about Watami Grill and Sushi Bar, check out https://www.facebook.com/ WatamiJapaneseCasualRestaurantPhilippines

"Sheep Jumps Over The Wall" is Chef Patrick Go's own take on a classic Chinese dish

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or Chef Patrick Go, every dish is a story. Every ingredient tells a tale. Every chef, a storyteller.

As the new executive chef of Black Sheep, Chef Patrick has his share of challenges when it comes to carrying the torch of the original Black Sheep of Bonifacio Global City. After a brief hiatus, Black Sheep is back and has moved to Makati, stronger than ever, and boasting a simpler and more accessible menu featuring Filipino-Chinese flavors with a modern gourmet twist.

"This is the food I love, the flavors I grew up with," Chef Patrick tells Expat "I came from a family of foodies. So, at a young age, I was already [exposed to different types of cuisine] and culture."

His love affair with food was casual at first—enjoying new restaurants and experimenting in the kitchen once in a while—until he realized working in the corporate world wasn't for him. Chef Patrick came from a family of bankers, but when he decided to pursue his culinary degree, his family supported him all the way. This strong familial support system is perhaps one of the reasons why he is so inspired to pay tribute to his family's Chinese ancestry while embracing their Philippine home.

"Chinese food is so diverse, there is a certain way that all these flavors go really well together," he said. "Filipino food is so robust, very flavorful, yet very comforting. So why not combine the two?"

Robust flavors of home and the exotic flavors of China? Count us in.

Despite being only a few months old, Black Sheep already has sure win bestsellers from their carefully curated menu. And believe me when I say Black Sheep's flavor combinations are as surprising as they are delicious—a deliciously rebellious treat from the usual Filipino-Chinese fare we're used to eating.

What to have For starters, try their signature Foie Long Bao. It's Black Sheep's twist to the traditional xiao long bao, stuffed with perfectly seasoned foie gras and warm xiaoxing broth, then sprinkled with crushed peanut for texture, plum slivers for that kick of acidity, and topped with delicate cilantro blossoms. Luxury is served.

Next, try the Two-Na—a snack and an appetizer in one. This is the perfect way to whet your appetite because it's a spicy tuna and chicken liver mixture on top of crispy ma lai gao (sort of like a fried mantao), then topped with sliced grapes and microgreens (which they foraged from around the area.

Yes, you read that right—foraged). The spicy kick is just right that you can still enjoy the slight sweetness from the tuna and the saltiness from the chicken liver. The grapes add a vibrant tanginess that somewhat cleanses the palate, making you long for more.

"A lot of our microgreens are taken—with permission—from our neighboring buildings," Chef Patrick shared with a grin. "So, if you see pancit-pancitan [water clover] on your dish, that means it was freshly harvested from our neighbor's plant box." And washed well, of course.

The next dish will awaken the culinary daredevil in you. What do you get when you mix fresh uni (sea urchin) from Pangasinan with crispy and flavorful pork face a la sisig?

A taste of heaven in a bao. This is Pig on a Pillow, with the pillow being the fluffy bao. The delicate, creamy, slightly sweet uni perfectly

compliments the fiery sisig flavors of the pork.

Truly a match made in heaven.

For the main course, treat yourself to a unique take on Chinese fried rice. A Chinese folktale inspired Chef Patrick to create the dish called the "Sheep Jumps Over The Wall," his take on the classic soup called Buddha Jumps Over The Wall. Currently, it has 23 ingredients working harmoniously together for that perfect balance of flavors in every earthen bowl (and I say "currently" because the Chef is always working to improve their offers).

Served over torched grass, the smokiness adds a new flavor spectrum to this lavish rice dish.

It has chicken, beef tenderloin, scallops, eggs, bone marrow, foie gras, and a lot of goodness.

Definitely a must-try when you go to BlackSheep. And by the way, this dish is good for sharing, but no one’s going to take it against you if you finish it all on your own.

And for a lipsmacking end to the perfect meal, why not have tea for dessert? Tea Time is Chef Patrick's twist on panna cotta. Infused with chamomile tea, the chamomile panna cotta is served with wild honey from Palawan, refreshing lemon granita, and topped with pink Cadena de Amor blossoms.

One meal isn't enough to know the fullness of Black Sheep's offers, but it is enough to know that Chef Patrick's attention to detail is as extensive as his flavor profile. And for once, a Black Sheep is good news to us all.

Black Sheep is open Tuesday to Sunday, 12 nn to 2 p.m. for lunch and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. for dinner.

They are located at 2230 UPRC1 Building, Chino Roces Avenue, Makati. For inquiries and reservations, call For Chef Patrick Go, every dish is a (0927) 783- story. Together with his team at Black 7083 or email Sheep Manila, he creates a culinary e a t @ b l a c k - experience that tells stories and creates memories—one unforgettable sheepmnl.ph. dish at a time.

MAY 29JUNE 11, 2016

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21ST FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

Message from French Ambassador Thierry Mathou France is the birthplace of cinema, with the Lumière brothers as the first filmmakers in history.

While contemporary cinema continues to find inspiration in cinematographic movements such as the French Nouvelle Vague, the cinemas of the world converge annually at the most prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Not only are films from all over the world screened there, but production workshops are organized by the French National Center for Cinema and Animation (CNC) and the Institut Français within the framework of the Fabrique des Cinémas du Monde.

I am very proud to say that the Philippines has made its mark in Cannes, most especially in this year with the selection of Brillante Mendoza’s Ma’Rosa in the Official Competition and Raymund Gutierrez’ Imago in the Short Film Category, as well as the participation of film director Carlo Manatad and producer Armi Rae Cacanindin who represented Asian cinema in Fabrique.

By giving the Best Performance by an Actress Award to Jaclyn Jose for her role in Ma’Rosa, the jury showed the wealth of film creation in the Philippines.

In our two countries, culture plays a key role in the affirmation of national identity, and this is particularly true in the Philippines where cinema is a major part of society. Despite the fact that cinema was popularized by Hollywood under the American period, French cinema remains the reference for independent movies. This gives us a unique priority to support film creation in the Philippines.

French audiovisual cooperation today actively assists the Film Development Council of the Philippines in the establishment of the National Film Archives by providing training at the Institut National de l’Audiovisuel (INA), and also through a cooperation agreement with the CNC and the Cinémathèque Française that extends French expertise in audiovisual archiving and cultural promotion.

In this context, cinema represents an ideal platform for the promotion of cultural understanding among peoples. The Embassy of France to the Philippines organizes the French Film Festival yearly to promote French culture to Filipinos and to exhibit shared cultural and social values. Through the years, it has attracted a growing number of cinéphiles and movie-goers who identify themselves with the different situations depicted in the French films, entertained by humor, action, drama, and of course, romance.

The selection of French films is completed by Filipino movies that have been featured and awarded in festivals in France, such as Cannes, Vesoul, and this year, Annecy, to show the local audience the quality of Philippine cinema that has received recognition from the international stage.

I wish to thank the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) for our partnership under the Film Cooperation Exchange Program (FCEP), the Ayala Malls Cinemas for hosting the screenings, the SSI Group, Inc., for its support not only as the platinum sponsor but also a long term partner in promoting French culture and lifestyle. The Primer Group, Peugeot and our host of sponsors for their generosity, without which the festival would not be possible.

Together with Institut Français, the agency mandated to promote French culture across borders, and the Alliance française in Manila and Cebu, I wish you all a great festival ...Vive notre cinéma! Mabuhay ang ating pelikula!

The 21st French Film Festival is organized by

In cooperation with

CINEMA

INSTITUT FRANÇAIS

With the support of our sponsors Platinum

Gold

Silver

WORLD CINEMA FRENCH FILM

Bronze

Distribution of 15,000 films 30,000 film screenings Support for 300 festivals in 80 countries

• Fabrique

des Cinémas du Monde 46 countries, 52 projects and 90 directors and producers • World Cinema Support 41 countries and 89 projects supported

IFCINEMA AFRICAN FILM HERITAGE 6,000 screenings 100 partner festivals

Media Partners

15,000 films downloaded since 2011 Subtitles in 20 languages

SPECTACLE VIVANT / ARTS VISUELS / ARCHITECTURE CINÉMA / LIVRE / PROMOTION DES SAVOIRS / LANGUE FRANÇAISE / RÉSIDENCES / SAISONS CULTURELLES COOPÉRATION AVEC LES PAYS DU SUD L’Institut français est l’opérateur du ministère des Affaires étrangères et du Développement international pour l’action culturelle extérieure de la France.

15_IF-CINE_ENG_A4.indd 1

www.institutfrancais.com

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21ST FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

Yes, we CANNES!

MAY 29JUNE 11, 2016

The Cannes Film Festival is perhaps the most prestigious international film festival in the world, drawing filmmakers, directors, producers and actors together at the Palais des Festivals. The 69th edition of the Cannes Film Festival was particularly marked by the presence of the Philippines on all fronts – from the Official Competition and the short films category to the World Cinema production workshop and the Pavilion in the International Village…and finally, in the Palmarès.

To walk on the red carpet on the Croisette is an achievement in itself. Filipino director Brillante Mendoza, who was awarded Best Director for Kinatay in 2009, once again walked the red carpet with the cast and crew of his latest film Ma’ Rosa, the only Filipino entry to the Official Competition this year.

Meanwhile, upon the initiative of Briccio Santos, chairman of the Film Development Council of the Philippines, and through the coordination of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Institut Français, Film ASEAN represented the film industries of Southeast Asia with a pavilion at the Cannes Film Market. Inaugurated by ASEAN Deputy Secretary General H.E. Vongthep Arthakaivalvatee in the presence of French and European dignitaries and film professionals, the Pavilion provided a venue for exchange between professionals of the region and the rest of the world.

Publicist Rene Durian describes Ma’ Rosa as an evolved and combined version of Kinatay and Tirador. Mendoza’s trademark is undoubtedly present in Ma' Rosa, a story of the Filipino family who constantly struggles to survive amidst the ills plaguing our society, through the vivid delineation of his characters.

The Philippines also joined the Fabrique des Cinémas du Monde production workshops organized by the Institut Français to bring together directors and producers from different parts of the world to promote collaboration and eventually, co-production. Carlo Manatad’s A Wrong Season received mentoring from Chinese director Jia Zhangke and was presented at the UNESCO Better World Forum to highlight UNESCO’s International Fund for Cultural Diversity.

Through the efforts of France’s regional audiovisual attachés, Loic Wong and Guillaume Duchemin, an ASEAN-France cooperation conference, was held in the pavillion where experts discussed channels for collaboration, film funding, and festival outreach initiatives. Participants included organizers of the Memory!

International Film Heritage Festival, SEAFIC Script Lab, Produire au Sud workshops, and France documentary cooperation programs in the ASEAN, such as AsiaDoc and Asian Side.

Finally, filmmakers, actors and cinephiles worldwide held their breath for the culmination of the festival – the awards night, the Palmarès., where Jaclyn Jose became the very first Filipino and Southeast Asian to be named the Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival. Her moving portrayal of Aling Rosa told the story of the Filipino people and captured the emotion and imagination of the jury and the audience. Essentially, this is what the Cannes Film Festival is all about – giving recognition to cinematic excellence and telling the stories of the people.

On the 70th edition of the Cannes Film Festival next year, the Philippines and France will also celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations. The Philippines’ presence in Cannes this year may be a tough act to follow, but with the growing Diptyque_123x183_v1.pdf 1 5/25/2016 11:09:10 AM cultural exchanges between the two countries, can we expect more Filipino films in Cannes?

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AYALA CENTER, MAKATI SHANGRI-LA PLAZA MALL AYALA CENTER, CEBU ESSENSES POWER PLANT MALL, ROCKWELL CENTRAL SQUARE, FORT BONIFACIO ADORA, GREENBELT 5

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MAY 29JUNE 11, 2016

21ST FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL 21st French Film Festival: Screening Schedule

TIME

June 8, Wednesday

June 9, Thursday

June 10, Friday

June 11, Saturday

June 12, Sunday

June 13, Monday

June 14, Tuesday

12:00 2:00

Les Nouvelles Aventures d'Aladdin (1h 47m)

Toute Première Fois (1h 30m)

Le Fantôme de Canterville (1h 35m)

Les Souvenirs (1h 34m)

Belles Familles (1h 53m)

Le Fantôme de Canterville (1h 35m)

Bird People (2h 07m)

2:30 - 4:30

Bird People (2h 07m)

Five ( 1h 42m)

La Ritournelle (1h 38m)

Les Nouvelles Aventures d'Aladdin (1h 47m)

La vie très privée de Monsieur Sim (1h 42m)

Bird People (2h 07m)

La Belle Saison (1h 46m)

5:00 - 7:00

Grand Central (1h 34m)

La Belle Saison (1h 46m)

Five ( 1h 42m)

Belles Familles ( 1h 53m)

Imbisibol (2h 12m)

Party Girl (1h 36m)

Mon Roi (2h 05m)

8:00 10:00

Un Plus Une (1h 53m)

Les Souvenirs (1h 34m)

Un Homme Idéal (1h 37m)

La vie très privée de Monsieur Sim (1h 42m)

Manang Biring (1h 28m)

Encore Heureux (1h 33m)

La Ritournelle (1h 38m)

10:30 2:30

Toute Première Fois (1h 30m)

Grand Central (1h 34m)

Humans (3h 10m)

Toute Première Fois (1h 30m)

Un Homme Idéal (1h 37m)

Grand Central (1h 34m)

Party Girl (1h 36m)

21st French Film Festival: Screening Schedule TIME

June 8, Wednesday

12:00 - 2:00

2:30 - 4:30

5:00 - 7:00

RED CARPET OPENING NIGHT @ CENTRAL SQUARE, BGC

8:00 10:00 10:30 2:30

Mon Roi (2h 05m)

June 9, Thursday

June 10, Friday

June 11, Saturday

June 12, Sunday

June 13, Monday

June 14, Tuesday

La Belle Saison (1h 46m)

Bird People (2h 07m)

Le Fantôme de Canterville (1h 35m)

Mon Roi (2h 05m)

Les Nouvelles Aventures d'Aladdin (1h 47m)

Humans (3h 10m)

Les Nouvelles Aventures d'Aladdin (1h 47m)

Le Fantôme de Canterville (1h 35m)

Un Plus Une (1h 53m)

Five (1h 42m)

Les Souvenirs (1h 34m)

La Belle Saison (1h 46m)

Grand Central (1h 34m)

Un Homme Idéal (1h 37m)

La vie très privée de Monsieur Sim (1h 42m)

La Ritournelle (1h 38m)

Belles Familles ( 1h 53m)

Encore Heureux (1h 33m)

Un Plus Une (1h 53m)

Belles Familles ( 1h 53m)

Five (1h 42m)

Encore Heureux (1h 33m)

Bird People (2h 07m)

Les Souvenirs (1h 34m)

Les Souvenirs (1h 34m)

La Belle Saison (1h 46m)

Un Homme Idéal (1h 37m)

La vie très privée de Monsieur Sim (1h 42m)

La Ritournelle (1h 38m)

Grand Central (1h 34m)

RUSTAN’S MAKATI • RUSTAN’S TOWER • ABREEZA • ALABANG TOWN CENTER • AYALA CEBU • CENTRAL SQUARE • EASTWOOD • ESTANCIA • FAIRVIEW TERRACES • GATEWAY • GLORIETTA 4 • GREENBELT 3 • KCC VERANZA • KISS & FLY TERMINAL 3 MALL OF ASIA • MEGAMALL • NEWPORT MALL • ROBINSONS GALLERIA • ROBINSONS MAGNOLIA • ROBINSONS PLACE • ROCKWELL • SHANGRI-LA PLAZA EAST WING • SM DAVAO • THE PODIUM • TRINOMA • UP TOWN CENTER

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21ST FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

MAY 29JUNE 11, 2016

Cinema may be the most universal form of entertainment today. Movies cross national boundaries and language barriers through moving images and human stories, bridging gaps between different cultures and people.

In the last 20 years, the French Film Festival in the Philippines has brought to the Filipino audience some of the best of French cinema, representing images of France and its society and carrying values and traditions while also depicting its concerns, issues and experiences to be shared with the viewers.

The festival now reaches the age of maturity, having become an annual rendez-vous of movie-goers in search of a different kind of cinema; one that looks more deeply into the many facets of human existence: drama, comedy, romance, suspense, thrill, and sometimes, tragedy.

The 21st French Film Festival offers viewers a wide selection of movies, many of which were released in Parisian theaters this year. A public of all ages, from the youth to the seniors, and from all walks of life, from students to professionals, will surely find a film that they could identify with.

While France is commonly associated with wealth and luxury, many of these films deal with socio-economic realities such as unemployment, migration, or even feminist movements that often lead to crises in relationships whether within a family or among lovers and friends.

Moreover, the French Film Festival celebrates the excellence of both French and Philippine cinema. It would be interesting to note striking parallelisms: Emmanuelle Bercot, the leading lady of this year’s opening film, Mon Roi by Maïwenn Le Besco, was given the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival in 2015. Now, Jaclyn Jose receives the same recognition for her role in Brillante Mendoza’s Ma’Rosa. Also, Olivier Assayas is this year’s Best Director for Personal Shopper, sharing the honor with Brillante Mendoza who won the same award in 2009 for Kinatay.

Indeed, the Cannes Film Festival levels the playing field for world cinema. Inherently, it has inspired the organization of the French Film Festival in promoting cultural diversity, and during Independence Day on June 12, the festival features Filipino films that have been selected and awarded in prestigious festivals in France. Philippine cinema is truly walking with the stars!

In the coming days, the French Film Festival will keep its fans busy. Be connected with us through our website at www.frenchfilmfest.com, or have the festival in your smartphone by downloading the French Film Festival app.

Tell us about your story – use the hashtag #FrenchFilmFest21 on social media!

Bon festival !

Martin Macalintal Audiovisual Attaché

Manang Biring is a comedy-drama about a feisty but terminally-ill old lady who has learned to accept her imminent demise. Until one day, she receives a letter from her long-estranged daughter abroad announcing of her return for the holidays. As she races against time with her declining health, Biring will go to great lengths to prolong her life and gift her daughter and grandson a happy Christmas.

A young man paying rent for himself and his lifelong friends at an apartment ends up flat-broke and resorts to selling marijuana to pay the bills - only to get caught up in the dangerous world of drugs.

Angélique is sixty years old. She still loves to party and she still loves men.

At night, to earn a living, she gets them to drink in a nightclub on the German border. With passing time, clients have become few and far between. But Michel, her regular, is still in love with her. One day, he asks her to marry him.

Jerome Varenne lives in Shanghai.

During a quick trip to Paris, he learns that his childhood home in the village of Ambray is at the center of a local conflict. He heads there to straighten things out.This escapade will change his life forever...

Gary is young, agile, a quick learner.

He's one of those who's never been promised anything. After a succession of odd jobs, he begins work at a nuclear power plant.There, amongst the reactors and their high doses of radioactivity, he finally finds what he's been looking for: money, a team, a family. But the team also includes Karole,Toni's wife, with whom he falls in love. Forbidden love and radiation slowly contaminate Gary. Each day is menacing.

In the depths of legendary Brittany, Aliénor de Canterville's ghost is condemned to haunt his family's castle and to scare away any new inhabitants. She fulfills this mission wonderfully, assisted by Gwilherm, her faithful servant. But when the Otis family, fleeing from Parisian life, buys the castle, Aliénor is upset that she doesn't manage to frighten this 21st century tribe... Only 15-year-old Virginia Otis, moved by the Canterville ghost's fate, will try to free Aliénor from the curse affecting her life.

In transit in an international hotel near Roissy airport on the outskirts of Paris, a computer engineer coping with a huge amount of professional and emotional pressure decides to radically change the direction of his life.

A few hours later, a young hotel maid, who is at an in-between period of her life, finds her existence turned upside down by a supernatural event.

Brigitte and Xavier farm cattle in Normandy. Brigitte's a dreamer, with her head in the clouds, whereas Xavier's feet are firmly on the ground and his main focus is his work. Now that their children have left home, the couple's routine life increasingly weighs Brigitte down. One day, in a moment's madness, she leaves the fields behind and heads for Paris.

Xavier then realizes that he is perhaps going to lose her. Will they manage to get back together? And how does one reinvent oneself after so many years?

To regain your wife's affections, you sometimes have to take a crooked path.

Yes, Marie is a little tired of the carefree attitude of her husband Sam. She is very tempted to allow herself to be seduced by a handsome anonymous man who courts her.There is also her daughter’s piano competition.This crazy light and balance stands more or less, as unexpected events cast the whole family on an even crazier path.

MAY 29JUNE 11, 2016

On Christmas Eve, Sam and his best buddy Khalid dress up as Santa to steal as much as they can from a department store. But Sam gets cornered by some children and has to tell them a story, the story of Aladin – his version, at least.Taking on the character of Aladin, Sam heads off on a voyage to the heart of Baghdad, city of a thousand and one riches. But alas, behind the colorful folklore, the people are suffering from the tyranny of the terrible Vizir, known for his cruelty and his dubious breath. Will the young thief Aladin, helped by his genie, be able to thwart the Vizir’s diabolical plans, save Khalid, and win the heart of Princess Shallia? Actually he will. But we won’t lie to you: it’s not going to be easy!

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21ST FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

Romain is 23 years old. He'd like to be a writer, but for the moment, he's a night watchman in a hotel.

His father is 62 years old. He is retired and seems to not give a damn about anything. He shares an apartment with a 24-year-old guy whose sole aim in life is to seduce women, no matter who, and no matter the cost.

His grandmother is 85 years old. She's in an old people's home and wonders what on earth she is doing stuck with all these old people.

One day, Romain's father turns up flustered. His grandmother has disappeared. In fact, she kind of escaped. Romain sets out to find her, somewhere in his memories.

25-year-old Mathieu has always aspired to become a famous author.

It's a dream which seems inaccessible because, despite all his efforts, he has never managed to be published.

Meanwhile, he earns his living by working for a moving company.

His destiny takes a new turn the day he stumbles across the manuscript of an elderly and solitary man who has recently died. At first Mathieu hesitates, then finally decides to steal the text and pretend he wrote it.

He becomes the bright new star of French literature. Everyone is now eagerly anticipating his second novel, and as each day passes and pressure mounts, Mathieu plunges ever deeper into a criminal spiral of lies in order to keep his dark secret hidden.

Antoine ressembles one of the heroes in the films whose scores he composes.

He's charming, successful, and goes through life with as much humor as lightheartedness. When he travels to India to work on a very original version of Romeo and Juliette, he encounters Anna, a woman with whom he has nothing in common, but who he finds devastatingly attractive.Together, they'll live an incredible adventure.

Tony is admitted to a rehabilitation center after a serious skiing accident.

Dependent on the medical staff and pain relievers, she takes time to look back on her turbulent relationship with Georgio.

Why did they love each other? Who is this man that she loved so deeply?

How did she allow herself to submit to this suffocating and destructive passion? For Tony, a difficult process of healing lies ahead of her, physical work which may finally set her free.

Imbisibol tells the tale of illegal Filipino immigrants in Japan and their plight to evade authorities. It weaves together several narratives about undocumented Filipino workers trying to support themselves and their families back home by taking underthe-counter work in Japan.

Jérémie, 34, wakes up in an apartment he doesn’t know, next to a woman he doesn’t know. She is Adna, a stunning Swedish woman who is as funny as she is sweet. Is this the beginning of a fairy tale? Not quite, since Jérémie is about to get married—to Antoine.

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Human is a collection of stories about images of our world, offering an immersion to the core of what it means to be human.Through these stories full of love and happiness, as well as hatred and violence, HUMAN brings us face to face with the Other, making us reflect on our lives. From stories of everyday experiences to accounts of the most unbelievable lives, these poignant encounters share a rare sincerity and underline who we are – our darker side, but also what is most noble in us, and what is universal.

Our Earth is shown at its most sublime through never-before-seen aerial images accompanied by soaring music, resulting in an ode to the beauty of the world, providing a moment to draw breath and for introspection.

Human is a politically engaged work which allows us to embrace the human condition and to reflect on the meaning of our existence.

Mister Sim is of no concern to anyone whatsoever. At least, this is what he thinks about himself. His wife has left him, his job has left him, and when goes to see his father in a remote part of Italy, not even Dad has the time to have lunch with him. He then receives an unexpected offer: to travel through France selling toothbrushes that will "revolutionize oral-dental hygiene." He takes advantage of the job to catch up with people from his childhood, to meet the first big love of his life, along with his daughter, and to make amazing discoveries and, in so doing, rediscover himself.

1971, Delphine is 23 years old. A farmer's daughter, she comes to Paris so as to be financially independent; she dreams of running her own farm, something unthinkable for a woman to do at this time.

Carole is a Parisian. She's 35 years old and lives with Manuel. She's actively involved with the beginning of the feminist movement. When Delphine and Carole meet, their love affair turns their lives upside down.

But Delphine is obliged to return to the family farm. Carole follows her. Once there, they'll have to cope with another reality.

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M&S_123x183_v1.pdf 1 5/23/2016 6:52:41 PM

21ST FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

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

MAY 29JUNE 11, 2016

21ST FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

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Fête de la Musique The first Fête de la Musique was launched on June 21, 1982, upon the initiative of French Minister of Culture Jack Lang and Maurice Fleuret, the Director for Music at the French Ministry of Culture. It was a symbolic day marked by the summer solstice, the longest in the Northern Hemisphere, and would later become an unprecedented event "without a hierarchy of genres or practices," including the participation of all that is new. A symbol of freedom and creativity, the Fête de la Musique encourages the visibility and access to artistry and culture and for it to flourish in a public space, with the public and for the public.

Today, in more than 120 countries all over the world, the spirit of the Fête de la Musique continues on as it takes place for the 22nd consecutive year in the Philippines,where music is an integral part of the soul of the people.

The Alliance Française de Manille and the Embassy of France to the Philippines, in partnership with the Tourism Promotions Board, B-Side Productions, and various government Nathan Zanagar agencies and sponsors, bring the Fête de la Musique to the Philippines once more with the participation of both established and up-and-coming artists in performances at Makati and Intramuros.

French singer Nathan Zanagar has been invited to perform together with the different local groups in bringing the Fête de la Musique to life. A singer-songwriter that first came to fame through YouTube, Nathan will be launching the Fête de la Musique at the Versailles Event Garden of Novotel Manila on June 16.

On June 18, Nathan and a number of local acts will rock Makati in two main stages at Greenbelt 3 and the A-Venue Mall.

BB_123x183_v1.pdf 1 5/23/2016 6:50:26 PM As in previous years, nearby bars and restaurants will be having their own musical events as part of the Fête de la Musique.

Finally, on June 23, the gardens of Puerta Real in Intramuros welcomesL'Occitane_123x183_v1.pdf the Fête de la Musique.

1 5/23/2016 7:11:21 PM For more information, visit www.alliance.ph.

Get plastered.

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13

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ARTS & CULTURE

Compiled by VIA BAROMA

MUSIC 2016 Sing Philippines Youth Choir (SPYC) May 31 to June 5; CCP Main Theatre, Pasay City; for more information, call (02) 8321125 loc. 1708 or 1709 The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and the Philippine Madrigal Singers (MADZ) welcome the second batch of choristers for the 2016 Sing Philippines Youth Choir (SPYC). The latest batch, selected out of the 140 applications received from all over the country, will participate in a music camp at the CCP. The music camp will run from May 31 to June 4 and will culminate with a concert of the Philippine Madrigal Singers at the CCP Main Theater on June 5.

Launched in June 2014 by the MADZ and the CCP thru its Cultural Exchange Department (CED), the SPYC featured 50 singers from 15 regions across the country who underwent a week-long professional music camp under MADZ choirmaster Mark Anthony Carpio. The Sing Philippines movement brings to life National Artist and MADZ founder Andrea O. Veneracion’s vision of a nation singing in harmony and united in songs.

THEATER The Godspell of our Times June 17 to 19 and June 24 to 26; Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium of RCBC Plaza, Sen. Gi J. Puyat Ave., Makati; for more information, call (02) 891-9999, (02) 895-8098, or (02) 5193603; email musicartes.manila@gmail.com

Godspell was the first major musical theatre offering from three-time Grammy and Academy Award winner Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin, Children of Eden); and it took the world by storm.

Written by visionary playwright JohnMichael Tebelak, Godspell is a heartwarming story that continues to captivate with its creative presentation of the parables of Jesus Christ and the call for “God save the people!”

"Day By Day," an international hit, is one of many songs in this new staging with Director Anton Juan and a powerhouse cast led by Menchu Lauchengco Yulo, Jeffrey Flores, OJ Mariano, Shiela Valderrama-Martinez, Caisa Borromeo, Poppert Bernadas, Topper Fabregas, Red Concepcion, Stephen Viñas, Abi Sulit, Maronne Cruz, Rhenz Gabalonzo & Gab Pangilinan.

Production design is by Otto Hernandez with Ejay Yatco as Music Director and John Batalla as Lights Designer. A Musicartes production by arrangement with Samuel French Limited, Godspell is assisted by Fullness of Christ International Ministries and Land Registration Systems.

Tickets are available at all Ticketworld outlets (02) 891-9999 and at Musicartes (02) 895-8098 or (02) 519-3603; or email musicartes.manila@gmail.com.

EXHIBITS Raw Talents Art Show featuring the artwork of 30 young artists June 5, 1p.m. to 5 p.m.; Pineapple Lab, 6071 Palma Street, Rockwell, Makati; for inquiries, call (0917) 556-9571

120 pieces of original artwork created by 30 children will be on display during the Raw Talents Art Show at the Pineapple Lab on the first weekend in June. Open to the public for viewing on Sunday, June 5, the pieces feature various themes including “My Dream,” “My City,” and self-portraits.

The children have worked with art teacher Cyndi Chan learning how to use various master artists styles of painting to create their own individual works of art.

Following the art exhibition, each child will donate one painting to the Pediatric Ward of the Philippines General Hospital.

The donated artworks will be accepted by Dr. Sio-Aguilar, Chairwoman of the Pediatric Department at PGH.

with the Acción Cultural Española (Spanish Cultural Action) and in collaboration with the Embassy of Spain in the Philippines and Instituto Cervantes de Manila. The exhibition, curated by Spanish architect and designer Juli Capella, explores the popularity of tapas and the growing consciousness for innovation and creativity that have resulted in the avant-garde tandem of gastronomy and design.

Tapas features a rich panorama of contemporary Spanish design as applied to cuisine. It showcases the collaborations of chefs, restaurateurs, artists, industrial designers, architects and interior designers whose unbounded imagination result in exceptionally functional, captivating, thought-provoking, and in several instances, humorous designs in the field of gastronomy. The expansive exhibit covers Spanish culinary icons such as the paella pan, churros, porrón, jamon and the popular lollipop, Chupa Chups; exceptional designs produced exclusively for leading restaurants such as elBulli, El Celler de Can Roca (named the best restaurant in the world in 2013) and Mugaritz; eye-popping graphic designs of Spanish wine labels; restaurant interiors; and the architecture of wineries across Spain including works by Frank Gehry, Santiago Calatrava, Zaha Hadid and Rafael Moneo.

TAPAS: Spanish Design for Food will be on view until June 16. Several lectures, design forums, tapas tastings, and film screenings are scheduled throughout the exhibition run. Admission to the exhibit is PhP100/person.

Tapas: Spanish Design for Food Ongoing until June 16; Tall Galleries, Metropolitan Museum of Manila, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Malate, Manila; for more information, call (02) 708-7828 or email info@metmuseum.ph The Metropolitan Museum of Manila’s newest exhibition TAPAS: Spanish Design for Food is a traveling exhibition organized

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EVENTS

MAY 29JUNE 11, 2016

The Sapphire Bloc offers the best in city dining The bustling Ortigas business district welcomes a new foodie haven with the opening of The Stockpile. Located as the Retail Promenade of The Sapphire Bloc in Ortigas Center, Pasig City, the top-notch restaurant is owned by chef Tanya Chua and celebrity cousins Gabby and Geoff Eigenmann. A number of leading personalities from the business and social circles trooped to The Stockpile to sample its delicious Western-inspired food paired with a variety of beers, cocktails and wines. The Sapphire Bloc is one of the prime projects under the urban lifestyle brand Robinsons Residences of premier retail estate developer Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) led by visionary president Frederick Go. The four-tower complex is a master-planned residential development that combines contemporary living with a unique selection of exceptional gourmet finds, bars, lounges and fine and casual dining restaurants. Congratulations and more power to this wonderful partnership between Robinsons Land Corporation and The Stockpile! For more information on The Sapphire Bloc, call 0925-3333333 or visit www.robinsonsresidences.com.

Georgette and husband former Australian consul general Hugh Wilson

Gian Floro, Ana Kriska Favis, Cherie Gil and Kevin Favis

Your columnist with the hardworking Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) president Frederick Go

Czarina Ablaza-Syquia, Raymond Villanueva, Joy Rustia, Jayelles’ Roselle Rebano, Cookie Caedo, Eve Yukimtiao and Tricia Pancho

Robinsons Residences and Robinsons Luxuria senior marketing manager Mark Stephen Delumen, RLC senior vice president for Robinsons Communities, Robinsons The Stockpile owners chef Tanya Chua and Geoff Eigenmann, Andi Eigenmann, The Stockpile owner Gabby Eigenmann and Residences and Robinsons Luxuria Mybelle Aragon-Gobio, RLC vice president for Sales and Marketing May Lopez-Precilla, RLC vice president for Business Development Trina Cipriano and Robinsons Residences marketing officer Gerard Calambro Dingdong Dantes

Henann Group of Resorts furthers Philippine tourism

The country’s leading group of resort developers, Henann Group of Resorts under the leadership of chairman Dr. Henry Chusuey, executive vice president Alfonso Chusuey and vice president for marketing Karl Chusuey, continues to promote the Philippines in the international tourism scene as it participated in several travel shows abroad. The company’s hardworking marketing and sales teams headed by assistant vice president for sales-Boracay Isabel Garcia took charge on the booth activities during the roadshows held in Russia, Germany and the Middle East. Meanwhile, the top-notch resort Henann Resort Alona Beach Bohol received an award form Booking.com, an online accommodation booking website, for being one of the most booked properties in Panglao, Bohol for 2015. Congratulations to Dr. Henry Chusuey and the entire Henann Group of Resorts team for these outstanding endeavors!

Philippine vice consul to Russia Jeff Valdez, Department of Tourism (DOT) Market Development Group director Verna CovarBuensuceso, Philippine ambassador to Russia Carlos Sorreta, Henann Resort Alona Beach Bohol assistant director of sales Vivian Lucero and DOT Tourism Regulation, Coordination and Regulation Generation assistant secretary Art Boncato, Jr.

Henann Group of Resorts assistant vice president for sales-Boracay Henann Resort Alona Beach Bohol assistant director of sales Vivian Lucero, Henann Group of Resorts vice president for marketing Karl Chusuey, Booking.com’s Arlene area Isabel Garcia, DOT undersecretary Benito Bengzon, Jr. and Petilla and Henann Resort Alona Beach Bohol director of sales Rizza Sebastian during the awarding ceremony Tourism Promotions Board COO Ramon Enerio III Henann Group of Resorts assistant to the president Pinky Bacud

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S P OT L I G H T

MAY 29JUNE 11, 2016

SarBay Festival 2016: A beach party for the planet

O

ver the past decade, tens of thousands of sun worshipers and party people from all over the archipelago have been trooping to southern Mindanao for the Sarangani Bay (SarBay) Festival. And on June 3 to 5, Gumasa Beach in Glan’s long stretch of white sands will sizzle once more for the event's 10th installment, this time, with a unique twist.

Sarangani First Lady and Provincial Tourism Council President Michelle Lopez-Solon revealed that this year’s edition will be more than the usual beach party which, more often than not, harms the coastal ecosystem.

Themed #SarbayEvolution, this year's version will celebrate the innovations it has embraced through the years, most notably its advocacy for environmental sustainability.

Solon said that the third day of SarBay will be devoted to coastal clean up activities,

Sand castle making contest

SarBay Fest cleanup

Gumasa Beach in Glan educational programs and environmental projects such as mangroves and tree planting.

Five non-government organizations are joining the I Love Clean SarBay program this year to help maintain the ecological balance of the Bay’s coastal ecosystem. She added that this year’s SarBay Fest aims to surpass last year, which attracted some 126,000 guests. This is the first time that it will be held in June to adopt to the new academic calendar of collegiate students, and serve as summer's last hurrah.

Once a best-kept tourist secret, Gumasa has become of the country's most soughtafter getaway because of its unspoiled talcum sand, minus the madding crowd of popular beaches. A Best Tourism Event Awardee from the Association of Tourism Officers in the Philippines for several years now, SarBay Fest is organized by the Provincial Tourism

Council and supported the Provincial Government, the Department of Tourism Region 12 and the Municipality of Glan.

The activities The excitement kicks off on June 3 with the Swim Across the Bay Cross Channel Team Swim from Maasim to Glan, a 15-kilometer relay which is among Asia’s most extreme swim race. Gen. Santos City-based Dadiangas Torpedoes team will defend its back-to-back title against other challenger tankers from Mindanao.

The adrenaline rush continues with the Sarbay Bancarera where boatmen and fishermen will display their skills in maneuvering their fishing boats as the indigenous jetski.

Art takes center stage in the Pinta sa Baybayon body painting contest, and an inter-municipality Sand Sculpture Competition. The Bay

Bodies 2016 will turn on the evening heat as babes and hunks strut their wares, while the Talk and Text-sponsored Foam Party will wrap up the night featuring the sultry duo of Natalia Moon and Luane de Lima known as DJ Lunatics.

Day Two begins with the Sarbay SwimBike-Run for the Environment, a triathlon which will test the mettle of the local “Iron Men.” Both days will have beach volleyball, football, skim boarding and ultimate frisbee competitions, fire dancing exhibitions, and Zumba sessions with the Legendz – Gen. Santos City’s home-grown league of dance instructors. Merry-making comes to a close as DJs Franco, Cathy Frey, Jennifer Lee, Ron Poe and Italo rock the night away in a dance party hosted by Globe Telecoms, as dazzling fireworks light up the sky.

Zumba in Gumasa

SarBay Bodies

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

U R BA N S C E N E

MAY 29JUNE 11, 2016

Compiled by VIA BAROMA

CONVENTION

MUSIC

TOYCON Philippines 2016

King of Pop Experience feat.

Kenny Wizz

June 10 to 12; SMX Convention Center, Pasay City; for more information, visit www. toyconph.com or email toyconph@gmail.com

June 11; The Theatre at Solaire Resort & Casino; for more information, visit www.ticketnet.com.ph or call (02) 911-5555 Arguably the closest you can get to watch the King of Pop perform live onstage. Acclaimed as the world’s best Michael Jackson tribute artist, with sold out performances in Las Vegas, New York, Sidney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Auckland, Cairo, Brussels, Johannesburg, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong, Kenny Wizz comes to The Theatre at Solaire for an explosive tribute concert.

Packed with breathtaking signature dance routines and a nostalgic pop repertoire, this concert is sure to reignite the fanaticism that marked the era of the late Michael Jackson.

Tickets are priced at PhP3,710 for Price Level 1; PhP2,650 for Price Level 2; PhP1,590 for Price Level 3; and PhP848 for Price Level 4.

Manila X Festival

TOYCON Philippines, on its 15th anniversary, is proud to announce its partnership with Pop! Life Entertainment to create the ultimate FanXperience for the pop-culture fans in the country.

The ToyCon 2016 + Pop Life FanXperience promises to be the biggest celebration of toys, video games, movies, cosplay, anime and collectibles.

FanXperience is the offshoot event of the Salt Lake City Comic Con, the thirdlargest comic convention in the US. Through its global partnership with Pop! Life Entertainment, ToyCon 2016 will be the staging-ground for exclusive show merchandise, exhibitions, international cosplay competitions, celebrity appearances, and much more.

Its exhibits will feature some of the world’s biggest brands in entertainment with such licensed properties as Marvel, Star Wars, DC, Game of Thrones, Walking Dead, Cartoon Network, and the NBA, among others. It will also highlight the biggest brands in gaming such as Capcom, Namco, and DOTA.

Designing Terrarium Workshop

June 4; Globe Circuit Event Grounds, Barangay Carmona, Makati; for more information, call (02) 891-9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com. ph Putting the spotlight on today's youth, Manila X Festival will celebrate the three aspects of millennial culture – fashion, music and shopping – in this one-of-a-kind event filled with the top fashion brands and the hottest artists and DJs. The festival features 13 of today's best music acts that include Yeng Constantino, Up Dharma Down, Kjwan, Thyro & Yumi, The Juans and Kiana Valenciano. Dance music superstars DJ Ace Ramos, Marc Marasigan, Mars Miranda, Curse & Bless, Tom Taus, Badkiss and Jessica Milner will be among those spinning the crowd into frenzy.

Tickets are priced at PhP800 for VIP and PhP500 for General Admission.

WORKSHOPS

CCP Hands-on Choral Workshop

May 31 to June 4; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; for more information, call (02) 832-1125 loc. 1604/1605 or email ccp.artist.training@gmail.com The Cultural Center of the Philippines is now accepting applications for the CCP Hands-on Choral Workshop 2016, which will be held in various venues at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. The highly regarded workshop is now on its 13th year of training choirs from all over the country. Many of them have already participated in national and international choral festivals and competitions.

The Philippine Madrigal Singers led by choirmaster Mark Anthony Carpio lead the team of trainers comprised of present and alumni members of the world renowned choral ensemble.

The workshop modules include sectional vocal techniques, sight-singing and ear training, individual choir cliniquing sessions, sessions for choral conductors, and a plenary session wherein all the choirs and conductors gather together to learn a common piece. The training program will also provide each choir the opportunity to perform in their own time slot. Participating choirs will be given the opportunity to render a short performance at the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino within the duration of the Workshop.

The Workshop will culminate in a program at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater) on Saturday, June 4, featuring all the participating choirs and conductors. Due to limited choir slots for the Workshop, registration is on a first-come-first-served basis.

June 11 at 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; The Office Project, Ground Floor, Alpha Salcedo Building, Salcedo Village, Makati; for more information, visit www. roadtoretail.net or email RoadtoRetail@gmail. com Road to Retail and Succulents PH brings you a fun workshop on succulent gardening.

Since studies show that gardening is one of the most effective stress relieving activities, the group thought of sharing the love by guiding you how to create aterrarium.

Terrariums are mini-ecosystems encased in glass. They create a unique environment for plant growth as the glass wall allows both heat and light to enter the terrarium. This allows plants within to photosynthesize. Most terrariums are easy to look after too, requiring minimal water. They also make impressive decor in both the home and office with their stunning aesthetics.

Join them in this hands-on workshop and explore your creativity by making your very own terrarium with succulents. Plus, learn more about a terrarium’s unique ecosystem and the essentials when gardening with succulents. By the end of this workshop, not only do you get to take home your own terrarium, you will also be on your way with the skills in creating more of these beauties in the future.

Workshop is priced at PhP3,000 per participant.

10th World Youth Alliance Asia Pacific Summer Camp

May 31 to June 4; Subic Park Hotel, Zambales; for more information, call (02) 921-5162 or email wyaap.summercamp@gmail.com Explore, enjoy and embrace a different kind of summer experience with the 10th World Youth Alliance Asia Pacific (WYAAP) Summer Camp Program.

In this five-day program, allow your kids to expand their horizons and develop leadership and social skills through a wide range of activities specifically designed to train young leaders from around Asia Pacific countries.

Campers can expect lively discussions, team building activities, and fun games and adventures by the beach, while at the same time learning and improving their leadership and social skills.

In the past, the WYAAP Summer Camp has been attended by youth from Cambodia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Taiwan, Thailand, Philippines, and Vietnam.

Summer camp fee is priced at US$170 for International participants.