THE PHILIPPINES’ FORUM FOR INTERNATIONAL READERS SINCE 1981 www.expatphilippines.ph
N E W S PA P E R November 22-December 5, 2015 Vol. XXXIV No. 4
The Ayala Triangle has officially turned on its contribution to fostering the spirit of Christmas with their Festival of Lights. If you haven't checked it out yet, you'd be wise to do so as it is quite a vibrant and impressive sight to behold.
Alarming climate warnings imposed prior to COP21 G
by VIA BAROMA
reenhouse gases in the atmosphere hit a new record high in 2014, according to a new report released on Nov. 9 by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), a UN-based research agency. In its annual Greenhouse Gas Bulletin, the organization says that there was a 36 percent increase in greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) from industrial, agricultural and domestic activities, reaching 400 parts per million (ppm) for the first time earlier this year at 40 carbon dioxide-monitoring stations. "We can't see CO2. It is an invisible threat, but a very real one. It means hotter global temperatures, more extreme weather events like heat waves and floods, melting ice, rising sea levels and increased acidity of the oceans. This is happening now and we are moving into uncharted territory at a frightening speed," said
WMO Secretary-General Michel Jarraud. The WMO warns the public that the continuing relentless rise of the greenhouse gases fuels climate change resulting to a dangerous and inhospitable planet for future generations. "Every year we report a new record in greenhouse gas concentration," Jarraud said. "Every year, we say that time is running out. We have to act now to slash greenhouse gas emissions if we are to have a chance to keep the increase in temperatures to manageable levels." A separate report released on the same day by Climate Central, a US-based research group, shows that even if the world limits warming to two degrees Celsius, sea level rise would still impact land that's currently home to at least 130 million people. Climate Central added that if warming reaches 7.2 degrees Fahrenheit above preindustrial levels, land where 470 million to
760 million people will feel the impacts of the changes in the planet. Climate change will push ‘poor’ to extreme poverty by 2030 Africa and South Asia are the most threatened regions of climate related shock, according to a recent report of World Bank Group. In the same report, more than 300 million additional people were expected to be in poverty by 2030 as a result of projections. According to the report, "poorest people are more exposed than the average population" to climate-related shock such as floods, droughts, heat waves, crop failures, reduced rainfalls, food prices after extreme weather events, increased incidence of diseases. "Climate change hits the poorest the hardest, and our challenge now is to page 6 protect tens of millions of peo-
Planting Bullets, Harvesting Conspiracies by CHING DEE
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anim-bala. It is as notorious as it is infuriating. According to reports from the Department of Transportation and Communication’s Office for Transportation Security (DOTC-OTS), 2015 has the most number of reported said cases with 105 reports from January to early November. 48 of these cases are said to involve live ammunitions, which means NAIA or the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) could file legal charges against the carrier of the bullet. And this is an option MIAA has no problem prescribing, as several charges were already filed against these alleged bullet carriers, including an elderly woman, an OFW (Overseas Filipino Workers), and an American missionary. As preposterous as this tanim-bala (bulletplanting) modus may be, this has been going on as early as 2012. There were 20 cases of bullet/s found in passengers’ luggage inside NAIA in 2012, 21 in 2013, and page 2 12 in 2014, according to a report
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NEWS
NOVEMBER 22DECEMBER 5, 2015
DIPLOMATIC AFFAIRS Compiled by VIA BAROMA
British Parliament expresses support for UK-Phl bilateral relations
British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP) Chairman Christopher Nelson was invited at the Parliament meeting with Sir David Amess, Chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group held at the Parliament Estate.
US government promotes entrepreneurship in Iloilo to reduce poverty
David Sutherland of ICM (left) abd Stephen Andoseh of USAID visits one of the 90 supported communities in Iloilo City
All-Party Parliamentary Group Chairman Sir David Amess (left) with BCCP Chairman Chris Nelson
Known for his high recognition of the Philippines as a nation, Sir David Amess discussed valuable progress and improvements of the British and Philippine bilateral relations. He also acknowledged the efforts and work done by the UKTI (UK Trade and Investment) and the Chamber and expressed his support in strengthening and expanding the British business community in the country.
The US Embassy Manila’s United States Agency for International Development (USAID) launched a 17-month project that will empower 10,000 people in the province of Iloilo through entrepreneurship. The project, implemented in partnership with International Care Ministries (ICM), will deliver an intensive 16-week training program to Iloilo’s poorest households, improving access to health, providing opportunities for entrepreneurship, and bolstering families with basic resources to stabilize their lives. USAID Philippines Acting Chief for the Office of Economic Development and Governance Dr. Stephen Andoseh, and ICM Chair of the Board of Directors David Sutherland, together with representatives from Iloilo local government units, participated in the launching ceremony in Iloilo City. “It is our hope that through our partnership with International Care Ministries, we can help build the entrepreneurial skills of the marginalized communities of Iloilo,” Dr.
Andoseh said. “This work is consistent with the United States government’s Partnership for Growth, a bilateral engagement that sharpens the focus of our assistance to propel inclusive economic growth in priority countries like the Philippines.” ICM has been working in the Philippines since 1992, with a focus on helping Filipinos who live on less than US$.50 per day (or about PhP23) lift themselves out of poverty. In the last few years, ICM has achieved a 95 percent increase in household income of participants, in addition to significant improvements in health and well-being. In Iloilo, USAID and ICM will assemble community groups in nearly 90 geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. These groups provide a safe environment for individuals to establish micro-entrepreneurships while improving their health and literacy. The project is aligned with USAID’s commitment to eradicating extreme poverty under USAID’s Cities Development Initiative, which promotes inclusive and sustained economic growth in second-tier cities, including Iloilo, in the Philippines.
The Great British Shopping Raffle is back
including two round-trip tickets from Etihad Airways, LUXE tickets to London Fashion Week and VIP football match tickets as the grand prize. Also up for grabs are a PhP40,000 shopping spree at Marks and Spencer, a PhP25,000 shopping spree at MINI, and gift packages worth over PhP 400,000 from participating British brands. Shoppers can get one raffle entry for every PhP3,000 purchases with any of the 34 British partner brands. The participating stores and brands are: Berghaus, Burton Menswear, Cath Kidston, Clarks, Debenhams, Early Learning Centre, John Lewis, Lee Cooper, Lionsdale, Lyle & Scott, Marks & Spencer, Mamas & Papas, MINI, Mitre, Mothercare, Pepe Jeans, River Island, Sanders, Speedo, The Body Shop, T.M. Lewin, Toni & Guy, Essensuals Hairdressing, Vision Express, Alfred Dunhill, Dune London, F&F, Hackett, Hamleys, Kurt Geiger, Lush, Radley, Savile Row, Reiss, and Superdry. Promo period is from Nov. 3 to Dec. 30. For more information about the GREAT British Shopping Contest, visit the British Embassy Manila Facebook page and the Twitter account @ukinphilippines.
The British Embassy and its partners give a ‘Great’ reason to shop for this holiday season, as it brings back the Great British Shopping Raffle this year. Fashionistas and shopaholics can update their wardrobe with the latest trends in British fashion and win great prizes by joining the Great British Shopping contest. Buy British this holiday season and get the chance to win amazing prizes. Go shopping in participating British store for a chance to win a VIP Shopping Trip to London,
Planting Bullets...from page 1 by the Philippine Daily Inquirer. With almost 1000 percent—yes, one thousand percent— increase between 2014 and 2015, there’s no wonder this modus has made the Philippines internationally famous for all the wrong reasons. And with the world watching the Philippines closely with the APEC 2015 delegates and world leaders like POTUS Barack Obama recently in town, more people are beginning to wonder who is behind this tanim-bala scheme and does the government have enough political will to thwart the perpetrators? But some are even more curious as to why this tanim-bala scheme continues to happen in broad daylight. Expat scoured the World Wide Web and here are some of the conspiracy theories behind this extortion modus inside NAIA. Smuggling bullets out of the country? Let’s start with perhaps the most ridiculous of them all: Supreme Court spokesperson Theodore Te pointed out in one of his Facebook posts that there’s an ongoing scheme to smuggle bullets outside of the country. While smuggling weaponry and live ammunition is indeed a serious concern, those caught—nay, victimized—inside NAIA were only “carrying” a single bullet. In fact, out of the 105 bullets found inside passengers’ bags this year, 21 were empty shells, four were dead ammunition, and about 15 admitted to using these bullets as an amulet or lucky charm. Diversion tactic for PhP10 billion APEC budget? First of all, yes, the Philippine government allotted over PhP9.8 billion for hosting the worldwide Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Summit this year. To be fair, this is the budget for an entire year of APEC meetings all over the country. However, some concerned individuals are still raising questions about the unusually huge budget based on Philippine standards.
In defense, APEC 2015 National Organizing Council (NOC) director general Ambassador Marciano Paynor, Jr. says it is “an investment.” In a report by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Paynor was quoted saying, “If we think that we need not spend all this money, then let’s not be members of the APEC, UN, or ASEAN and just be like a hermit kingdom.” By any standard, allotting almost PhP10 billion for a series of events might be something the Philippines cannot afford (at least for now). And this does not include all the “miscellaneous costs” the government has allotted for in the past, like putting up temporary walls along roads to hide shanties and slums, sending the homeless to attend “livelihood projects” in resorts, or paying off families to leave the streets and move somewhere else where they can’t be seen. Whether the amount is reasonable or absurd, only transparency will help qualm the queries of Filipinos who are questioning the country’s APEC budget. Black Propaganda against current administration? Staunch supporters of the administration are saying this entire tanim-bala is nothing but a demolition job against the Liberal Party and ultimately against their 2016 presidential bet Mar Roxas. In an ABS-CBN report, Roxas pointed out that the truth shall prevail over the tanim-bala scheme, whether it is a modus to stain the government’s image, a plot to ruin the country’s tourism industry, or a plan to fatten the pockets of x-ray machine operators and other airport personnel. Again, to be fair, perhaps the government’s biggest enemy is themselves. Communications Secretary Herminio ‘Sonny’ Coloma Jr. downplayed the alarming rise in tanim-bala cases at NAIA. In a separate ABS-CBN report last October 30, 2015, Coloma was quoted
saying in vernacular that there were only a few people who were caught with ammunition in their luggage. His statement earned the ire of netizens and spurred former Interior Secretary Rafael Alunan III to call him a Filipino word that would roughly translate to “imbecile.” Airport syndicates Of all the conspiracies behind this whole tanim-bala modus, this is perhaps the most plausible: A syndicate ring operating inside NAIA to plan bullets, threaten passengers, and extort money from “suspects.” This is, of course, denied by the MIAA, NAIA, and OTS. OTS Undersecretary Roland Recomono said there is no concrete evidence to prove that a syndicate neither operating within NAIA
nor behind the tanim-bala extortion scheme, vehemently denying any involvement to the now internationally known—and feared— extortion practice. Even Supt. Jeanne Panisan, spokesperson of the Aviation Security Group (Avsegroup) of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said there is absolutely no possibility of any airport personnel planting a bullet inside a passengers’ luggage. However, an insider from the National Bureau of Investigation revealed to the Philippine Daily Inquirer (under anonymity) on October 1, 2015 that the syndicate group inside the airport “is composed of various airport workers such as immigration personnel, airport police, x-ray scanners, baggage inspectors, and porters.”
Last Nov. 16, the Alliance Francaise de Manille hosted a prayer vigil for the victims of the horrific terror attacks in Paris. “Now is the moment for grieving,” said French national JB Cassin who was present during the vigil. “We all have to be aware anywhere in the world because terrorism, unfortunately, is an issue, which doesn’t stop at the borders of France.”
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C E BU N E W S
NOVEMBER 22DECEMBER 5, 2015
by RICHARD RAMOS
Cebu City Marriott Hotel upgrades its lunch and dinner buffet meals for premier diner satisfaction. While many hotels opted to lower their rates, this hotel went against the tide while adding new selections and live cooking stations to its lunch spread. Take your pick among cheeses, antipasti, salmon sashimi, and maki, plus more live action cooking at the Curry, Mongolian, and Noodle stations. Top it off with delectable desserts and a halohalo concoction. Dinner is an adventure with continental cuisine on Sundays and Mondays, local viands on Tuesdays, getting Thai’d Up on Wednesdays, Indian specialties on Thursdays, Seafood Buffet on Fridays, and Primed Rib on Saturdays. Lunch is a mere PhP850 net while dinner starts at PhP1,200 net. Aboitizland introduces Amoa, its latest mid-end mixed type residential village.
‘Amo-a’ translates to ‘ours’ in the local Visayan dialect, evoking a strong sense of ownership among the lot owners. Located in the town of Compostela, 20 kilometers north of Cebu, the 60-hectare spread features an open-style clubhouse, three separate pools, a play area, play courts, and a grand lawn measuring 1,420 square meters. Lots are offered at only PhP5,000 per square meter starting at 120 square meters each. One has his choice of five unit choices, from the one-storey single detached to the two-storey townhouse units. House-and-lot units, clustered as residential enclaves, start at a mere PhP1.7 million. Filinvest Land Inc., the Gotianun-led property developer, launches “I Own My Dream,” an advocacy that aims to empower Filipinos to achieve their goals of a better life. Sixty lucky homebuyers have a chance
to win PhP25,000 each in three monthly raffle draws, and three more to win a Toyota Wigo G AT TRD, Innova G DSL MT, or the FL Cruiser at the grand draw. Soiree Beaujolais, the annual festival highlighting the delightful music and culinary delights of France takes place this Friday, November 27, 2015. Known for its zeal and fervor to the arts and culture, France music is characterized by romantic interlude combined with the classics while French cuisine is regarded as among the best in the world, punctuated with excellent wine. Treat your partner to an evening of quality dinner and song in a novel setting for an ultra memorable experience. Sponsors include the Alliance Francaise Cebu and the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Philippines. Event starts 7 p.m. at The Monastery, 967 Veteran’s Drive, Lahug.
Ticket prices at only PhP1,500. Call (032) 232-1311 for details. Plantation Bay Resort & Spa in Marigondon, Mactan Island features Brazilian Fever every Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. Sample the very best of hot South American delicacies in a romantic and breezy beach setting for an unforgettable dining experience. Spicing up the evening will be live performances featuring in-house resort staffers clad in alluring costumes and dishing out sexy dance routines in attuned with the theme. Don’t forget also Viva Espana on Mondays, Filipino Fiesta on Tuesdays, Arabian Nights on Wednesdays, Hawaiian Luau on Fridays, and Rockin’ USA on Saturdays. Price is only PhP1,380 nett. For more information, pls. call Plantation Bay at (032) 505-9800, Manila office at (032) 844-5024-25 or e-mail fb@ plantationbay.com.
French NGO leads turnover of housing units in Yolanda-wrecked Cebu town by RICHARD RAMOS
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elected families victimized by the dreaded Yolanda supertyphoon in Daanbantayan, a distant northern town of Cebu, commemorated the second anniversary of the typhoon this November with joy and pride as they became the proud owners of a total of 204 brand new disaster-resilient homes situated in two of the town’s barangays. Formerly living in makeshift shelters in zones near the shoreline, these families were prioritized and relocated to these permanent houses by the Habitat for Humanity in coordination with the local municipality. These houses all have access to water, electricity and proper sanitation. The France-Philippines United Action (FPUA) comprising 26 French companies based in the Philippines led by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry, plus the Habitat for Humanity, and the Philippine and French Red Cross organizations served as the lead organizations in both villages. Barangay Agujo completed the construction of 76 houses painted in green, white and blue, as well as a multi-purpose center situated on a 5,488 square meter site. Construction here started less than two months after Yolanda hit the place in November 8, 2013. In the second village in Barangay Paypay, construction of the 128 houses started in May 2014 till its completion this month. The red and white painted structures were built in consonance with the Red Cross colors by hundreds of volunteers. Residents of the two barangays were quite cheerful and excited to see the French and Filipino delegations consisting of the top bosses who delivered brief speeches during the turnover ceremonies. Also in attendance was Cebu Provincial Governor Hilario Davide III and Vice Governor Agnes Magpale. Speeches by VIPS No less than His Excellency French Ambassador Thierry Mathou led the turnover ceremonies in Barangay Agujo as he expressed his concern about climate change and assured the crowd of the continuous support of the French government and community on such matters. He also mused that he presented his credentials to President Benigno Aquino III the previous day and later boarded a flight to Cebu
enroute to a 140-kilometer road trip to Daan Bantayan the following day. Charlie Ayco, CEO of Habitat for Humanity, stated that each house, costing only PhP200,000 each, was designed by Architect Ed Florentino. Its hyperbolic paraboloid design using local materials challenged traditional architecture as it can withstand up to Intensity 8 earthquakes and 275 kilometerper-hour winds. Christophe Riout, president of the French Chamber of Commerce, recalled that the heads of the French companies immediately gathered in Manila a few days after Yolanda struck the Visayas region and formed the FPUA consortium to pool their efforts and resources to help in the rebuilding efforts of the typhoon victims. “Our plant, Republic Cement in Danao City, was also badly hit so we empathized with the calamity victims. I would like to thank Daanbantayan Mayor Augusto Corro and his clan for their quick response and for the donation of the land for the housing projects,” he said. During the launch of the Red Cross Village in Barangay Paypay, Richard “Dick” Gordon, president and CEO of the Philippine Red Cross, pointed out that the 128 permanent red and white houses spread out over a 13,500 square-meter lot was probably the most beautiful of all its housing projects in the world. Other facilities include a day care center, a barangay health center, a livelihood center, a Red Cross Room, a 33-kilowatt photovoltaic solar power plant, and an autonomous Decentralized Water Treatment System (Dewat). “We engage in humanitarian activities, not charity. Though much is given, much is also expected. Laziness is unacceptable. The people are expected to look for livelihood and employment to sustain themselves. And we want to see clean surroundings,” he told the crowd. Gordon commended the mayor several times for not begging for aid and assistance despite the widespread misery. The mayor’s developmental approach paved the way for the FPUA to coordinate its efforts to help the town recover faster from the Yolanda aftermath. Other speakers were the top bosses of Republic Cement, FPUA Foundation, Sanofi Philippines, French Red Cross, plus Cebu Gov.
One of the 204 disaster-resilient homes given to Yolanda-affected residents of a Cebu town.
Hilario Davide II, Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale, and Daanbantayan Mayor Augusto Corro. More on the FPUA Formed just two few weeks after Yolanda struck the country in November 2013, the FPUA was born from an appeal of the French Embassy to assist French private donors, non-profit organizations, and French agencies regarding rehabilitation programs of the typhoon victims. Focus has been on Daanbantayan where the recovery and housing projects have been quite impressive, prompting French President Francois Hollande to announce the conver-
sion of the body into a foundation of the French Chamber after only 13 months of existence. The foundation’s goals for now is for the French companies to strengthen their Corporate Social Responsibility programs in the fields of education and health beyond its disaster rehabilitation program. Presently, the search is ongoing for partners to construct a third relocation site in Barangay Cayang, Bogo City situated 100 kilometers north of Cebu. Specific fields are electrical supply, installation of water and drainage systems, concreting of access roads, and other related aspects of site development.
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E X P AT N E W S P A P E R
S P OT L I G H T
NOVEMBER 22DECEMBER 5, 2015
17,233,297,910.67
Surviving Yolanda: The (Needlessly) Long Aftermath by CHING DEE
When Super Typhoon Yolanda (international name Haiyan), one of the strongest typhoons recorded in the history of the world, hit the Visayan provinces of the Philippines on November 7 to 9, 2013, the nations of the world—rich or poor—gathered together to aid the Philippines and the Filipinos. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), Yolanda left 6,300 people dead, 28,186 injured, and 1,061 still missing. In their calculations as of April 17, 2014, total damages to infrastructure and agriculture amounted to a staggering PhP89,598,068,634.88 (US$1,905,143,444.96). While the damage done by Yolanda was well documented, the donations and foreign aid received for rehabilitation and recovery were not as thoroughly accounted for. Today, more than two years after the super typhoon battered Visayas, people are still raising questions about what really happened to all that foreign and local aid. More importantly, the survivors are still waiting for decent homes, a feasible livelihood, and much-needed relief until today. So, what really happened to all those resources sent to the Philippines for the victims of Yolanda? In this space, we attempt to make sense of the values made available. This is the story behind the numbers of the Yolanda relief funds and the needlessly long aftermath that followed the deluge.
672,522,788.18
In April 2014, Simone Orendain of news website Voice of America (www.voanews. com) reported that foreign aid from countries and organizational bodies pledged roughly “US$600 million in cash and assistance” but “the Philippine government says it can
only account for some US$14.3 million (PhP672,522,788.18) of the donations.”
27,545,216,575.85
Just to be clear, that is a discrepancy of US$585.7 million or roughly PhP27,545,216,575.85. How on earth does one feel comfortable saying they cannot account (or have not accounted) for that amount of money? This doesn’t really come as a surprise as TJ Burgonio of the Philippine Daily Inquirer reported on March 2014: “Nobody is keeping tabs on donations given to private aid and religious organizations for survivors of Super Typhoon Yolanda.” Yes, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman herself admitted this during a public hearing of the Senate Finance Committee.
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To answer this problem, the Philippine government established one monitoring body to keep track of all ‘Yolanda’ funds: FAiTH or the Foreign Aid Transparency Hub. FAiTH is an online resource accessible to the public where anyone can find out how much the country received in foreign aid, including the total cash and non-cash donations received by the government, non-government organizations (NGOs), and multi-lateral bodies.
73,307,438,834.36
As of posting, the total foreign aid pledged to the Philippines is PhP73,307,438,834.36 (US $1,558,752,199.57). Out of the pledged amount of over PhP73.3 billion, over PhP45.1 billion were cash pledges, while non-cash pledges amounted to PhP28.2 billion. But how far are the pledges for actual received donations?
Yes, only about a quarter of the total foreign aid pledges have been received. According to FaiTH data, the government received PhP1,202,312,574.78 billion in cash and about PhP1,269,787,369.01 billion worth of non-cash donations. Meanwhile, NGOs and other agencies received the bulk of the total amount, which was PhP14,761,197,966.88. If you were diligent enough to do the math, it all adds up correctly. However, despite the government’s efforts to appear transparent with Yolanda funds, there is still quite some hullabaloo going on— calling for the real accounting of said funds. This writer believes these concerns are well founded, especially if you see the current state of the housing projects (or lack thereof) by the government and the amount of food left in warehouses to spoil and rot instead of being eaten by families in need.
48,800,000
In March of this year, the government has had enough of these allegations of corruption and misuse and finally issued a statement to appease the nation that the PhP48.8 million funds for Yolanda victims are still intact. These are funds kept in a bank account under the name of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD). The OCD is the implementing arm of the NDRRMC, according to the Philippine Information Agency. Perhaps this single paragraph is raising more questions than answers: Why is the money under the OCD bank account? Why is it there and not being used for rehab and recovery? Why does the NDRRMC need an implementing arm when the NDRRMC itself should be doing this task? Questions, I tell you.
500,000,000
About a month after Yolanda struck the Philippines, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a US$500 million emergency loan for rehabilitation of affected areas and the survivors. Later on, the ADB then announced an additional US$372 million loan plus a US$23 million grant for the same cause. If you’re still following and doing the math, the Philippines now owe the ADB a total of US$900 million. Mind you, that’s in dollars, not pesos. According to ADB’s statement, the additional US$372 million loan was for the Kapit-
Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan - Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). This is the same DSWD headed by Soliman— the same official who admitted to the Senate Finance Committee that there was nobody monitoring the Yolanda funds.
0
Yes, zero. In a Rappler article by Reynaldo Santos, Jr. in September 2014, the Commission on Audit (COA) in its assessment report announced that the OCD had PhP692.77 million as available quick response funds (QRF) for 2013 and the NDRRMC received PhP48.82 million in donations after Yolanda. However, as Santos put it, “not a single centavo of these amounts has so far reached the typhoon victims” and only about 17 percent went to “Yolandarelated operations.” According to the report, 98 percent of OCD and NDRRMC funds were transferred to the Armed Forces of the Philippines “for petroleum, oil and lubricant (POL) reserve for disaster operations, subject to liquidation,” which is—in all its essence— the bulk of the funds at PhP118,645,192. Well, I don’t know about you, but I believe Yolanda funds should focus on humans. And while making sure vehicles and machines have enough fuel to run, but to allocate 98 percent of government agencies emergency budget for oil and lubrication is just plain unbelievable. It’s been two years. Thousands of families have been displaced, countless lives lost, other still not found. Many have chosen to move out of the calamity zone in search of a better life elsewhere (which this writer certainly hopes they did). But perhaps the greatest issue here is not the funds itself but accountability for the funds. These government agencies are simply implementing bodies tasked to manage these donations and use them for what they were meant to be used for in the first place. But when your Commander-in-Chief chooses to attend a wedding instead of paying his respects to the thousands of people killed by a historic super typhoon, are we really surprised that his subordinates couldn’t care any less about the plight of the afflicted? PhP-US$ exchange rate as of November 12, 2015.
Qatar Airways announces Doha-Birmingham route Qatar Airways is proud to announce that it will operate a new service between Doha and Birmingham, in the United Kingdom, from 30th March 2016, adding to its existing services to London Heathrow, Manchester and Edinburgh. With eight flights a week, including two flights on Saturdays, passengers travelling to and from Birmingham will have access to convenient and seamless transfers at the airline’s stateof-the-art hub Hamad International Airport. Birmingham is the largest and most populous city outside of London and is situated in the West Midlands. The economy is largely dominated by the service sector and the city is an important transport, retail, events and conference hub. The announcement of this new route further strengthens Qatar Airways’ commitment to the UK regions, with Birmingham being the center for the largest concentration of businesses outside of London, boasting 34,285 companies including over 700 international firms. The city attracts nearly 34 million people a year for both business and pleasure and is ideally situated at the center of the UK’s rail and motorway network. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker said: “We are delighted to announce Birmingham as Qatar Airways’ fourth destination in the United Kingdom from March 2016. This additional route strengthens Qatar Airways’ commitment to the regions across the UK and will create new commercial and leisure links between the city of Birmingham and the 152 destina-
tions served by the airline. We look forward to welcoming new passengers on board our award-winning product, and to connecting Birmingham to the rest of our rapidly expanding network.” Birmingham Airport Chief Executive Officer, Paul Kehoe said: “This is fantastic news for both Birmingham Airport and the region, and is our tenth new airline to announce or launch this year. Not only will our passengers have the choice of flying with the award winning carrier to Doha’s state-of-the-art hub Hamad International Airport, they will have a choice of 152 destinations served by the airline, including South East Asia, China and Australasia.” The route will be operated by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which has a two-cabin configuration, comprising of 22 seats in Business Class and 232 Economy Class seats. All seats include individual television screens, with Economy Class customers benefitting from a screen 10.6-inches wide, offering the latest inflight entertainment comprised of up to 2,000 options while experiencing the airline’s awardwinning service. Every seat is an aisle seat in Business Class where passengers can catch up on sleep in a fully-flat bed or make productive use of their time utilizing the large work surface area. Passengers can also stay connected while travelling with the option of WiFi, which is available throughout the aircraft. Thanks to HIA’s modern design, passengers from Birmingham can now take advantage of convenient, quick and seamless onward connections to 152 key business and leisure desti-
nations across Qatar Airways' ever-expanding global network, including those in Asia, the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East and Africa, with the West Midlands in the UK now easily accessible from cities such as Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangkok and Hong Kong. Qatar Airways’ home, Hamad International
Airport, houses one of the world’s largest and most luxurious Business Class lounges – the Al Mourjan Business Lounge – and also has over 40,000 square meters of retail space and restaurants that includes a selection of more than 70 retail and 30 food and beverage outlets.
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E X P AT N E W S P A P E R
F E AT U R E S
NOVEMBER 22DECEMBER 5, 2015
Honoring Dante Alighieri @ 750 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 Carmencita H. Acosta Associate Editor Angie Duarte Richard A. Ramos (Cebu) Senior Writers Via Baroma Ching Dee Staff Writers Leah Egamino-Palaña Advertising Coordinator Jennifer Codera Billing, Credit and Collection Supervisor Nikki Joy Habana Macjanry Imperio Design & Layout Circulation/Classified Ads Officer Our Headquarters: Unit 207, Cattleya Condominium Bldg. 235 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Our telephone numbers: (+632) 840-2996 or (+632) 812-0987; Fax (+632) 840-2988 You can also reach us at: expatmag@gmail.com 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.
by CHING DEE
Societa Dante Alighieri Comitato di Manila celebrates the 750th birth anniversary of the Father of the Italian language
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t was a fiery night at Caruso Ristorante Italiano as Societa Dante Alighieri – Comitato di Manila celebrated the 750th anniversary of the birth of Italian poet Dante Alighieri—the Father of the Italian Language. Host Mr. George Sarakinis welcomed guests and started the event with opening remarks from Mr. Emilio Mina, owner of Caruso Ristorante Italiano, and Italian Ambassador to the Philippines Mr. Massimo Roscigno. “[Dante] Alighieri did not just invent the language we speak today,” Amb. Roscigno said. “[He] gave nobility to the Italian language.” Prof. Paul Dumol from the University of Asia and the Pacific—an expert on literature and the works of Dante Alighieri—also gave a short discussion about Alighieri’s “The Divine Comedy” to give guests a deeper background on tonight’s celebration, uncovering symbolisms embedded inside Alighieri’s greatest work. Guests were also treated to a night of glorious Italian classical music courtesy of Prof. Jonathan Coo of the Ateneo de Manila University, who performed an abridged version of Liszt’s “Dante Sonata,” depicting the rise and fall and rise again of “The Divine Comedy.” The Faculty Voices of St. Paul University also performed lively and moving repertoire of Italian songs. An exciting raffle was also conducted, where lucky guests won prizes like Italian language classes at Societa Dante Alighieri Comitato di Manila—the only organization in the Philippines authorized to facilitate the PLIDA test, as well as Italian tutorials and cultural programs; a trip for two to Boracay courtesy of SkyJet Airlines with three days, two nights accommodation courtesy of the Mandarin Hotel Boracay; and the grand prize: a brand new Vespa from Grandstar Motors. The night ended with a sumptuous Italian dinner courtesy of Caruso Ristorante Italiano,
Ambassador Massimo Roscigno with host George Sarakins Art Exhibit
whose menu for the night celebrated Dante Alighieri’s 750 years of influence and greatness. The successful and unforgettable “L’Inferno” (The Hell Night) is just one of several events organized by Societa Dante Alighieri to commemorate the 750th year of Alighieri, which will all culminate in another special
dinner and presentation at L’Opera Ristorante Italiano on November 27, 2015. For a complete list of events and more information about lessons and programs, please visit www.dantemanila.com or follow Societa Dante Alighieri on Facebook.
Alarming climate warnings...from page 1 ple from falling into extreme poverty because of climate change." Alarming reports from different agencies were released few weeks before the UN climate change negotiations in Paris, which commence on Nov. 30. COP21 aims to put leash on climate change Around 100 world leaders, 40,000 delegates and thousands of protesters will descend on Paris for the 21st Conference of the Parties
to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, also known as COP21 on Nov. 30 to Dec. 11. A few weeks before the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change begins, most of the world's governments have announced their pledges that they plan to offer under the Paris climate agreement. Developed countries, such as the US and members of the European Union, pledge to reduce rates of greenhouse gas pollution by spe-
cific amounts in the coming years. Also, China will aim to cut its greenhouse gas emissions per unit of gross domestic product by 60 to 65 percent from 2005 levels under a plan submitted to the UN. The annual meeting aims to monitor the word's progress at dealing with global warming and climate change, as well as creating a global and legally agreement between all countries to lower emissions sufficiently to keep global warming below two degrees Celsius.
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G RU B H U B
NOVEMBER 22DECEMBER 5, 2015
How Healthy is Your Kitchen?
by ANGIE DUARTE
Mango Tree restaurant clues us in on healthful eating, with a healthy kitchen workshop conducted by holistic healer, Ms. Lia Bernardo
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ippocrates, regarded as the Father of Medicine, said: “Let your food be your medicine, and your medicine be your food.” In today’s fast-food world, however, of instant this and microwave that, this ancient, guiding principle has fallen to the wayside of the processed, packaged, and preserved. There are those who stand against this Giant of Junk; a remnant, so to speak, of healthful, mindful eating who champion a healthy kitchen, in the simple belief that you, in fact, are what you eat. The Mango Tree restaurant is among this brave remnant; Thai food, in general, being one of the enduring bastions of health-conscious cuisine. Recently, renowned holistic healer and practitioner of well-being, Lia Bernardo, gave a mini-workshop at the Mango Tree flagship restaurant in Bonifacio Global City, on the many advantages of healthful, mindful eating. The food and body connection “Many emotional and physical ailments can be reversed simply by eating the right kind of food,” Bernardo shared. “Understanding your body, listening to your body, knowing what it needs, and finding out how food affects your body…this is mindful and intuitive eating.” A marriage of knowing your body and knowing the properties of different foods, and of course, actually eating these foods: this is what mindful eating is all about. The side benefits? Health and strength, plus radiance and a natural glow. Feel good, and look good – now there is a winning combo that is difficult to pass up! “Everything is energy. We need to allow the energy of the food we eat to benefit our body,” Bernardo pointed out.”
By way of example, she briefed the eager (and hungry!) guests on the connection of different colors of food ingredients and their effects on the body: for instance, foods that are white in color in their natural state benefit the immune system, red hued foods affect heart health, orange colored foods are rick in anticancer properties, while purple foods promote longevity. Even the shape of a particular food can provide clues to their benefits: walnuts, by way of example, are brain shaped and are – by no coincidence – beneficial for mental alertness. “Nature gives us clues, along the way, of the foods which are beneficial to our health,” Bernardo said. Well-being versus wellness Yes, there is – apparently – a difference between well-being and wellness, Bernardo clarified. While the latter refers to an individual’s state of health, the former is more comprehensive in meaning, and refers to an individual’s state of OVERALL health – spirit, soul, and body. Someone who enjoys a state of well-being is not only getting by but thriving in these three areas. And food has an impact on all these. Bernardo pointed out the conundrum we face, in today’s world, by quoting American novelist, poet, environmental activist, cultural critic, and farmer, Wendell Berry, who said that: “People are fed by the food industry, which pays no attention to health, and are treated by the health industry, which pays no attention to food." Promoting healthy eating, deliciously! The Mango Tree Group, however, defies this food industry norm by promoting healthy, nutritious, and delicious eating.
As Bernardo went on to explain the healing effects and medicinal properties of herbs and popular recipe ingredients – such as lemon, cucumber, eggplant, turmeric (about which she raved), ginger, tamarind, holy basil, lemongrass, malunggay, and galangal, even eggs; among many others – Mango Tree served up a variety of toothsome dishes, composed of these healthy kitchen helpers. As Bernardo noted, “Thai food contains a lot of staple ingredients which are considered super foods.” The delectable menu of healthy Thai favorites included eye-catching and appetizing dishes like Som Tum Thai, a refreshing medley of spicy fresh green papaya salad with cherry tomatoes, snake beans, peanuts and dried shrimps); the Yum Ma Khua Phao Song Goong, grilled eggplant salad with shrimp; Phad Pak Bung Fai Daeng or stir-fried morning glory with garlic, fresh chilies and soy bean sauce; and the Kai Jiew Hom or Thai omelet, to name just a few of the afternoon’s mouthwatering offerings. Each dish was not only a riot of color (indicating an abundance of good-for-you food properties), but also a profusion of fantastic flavor! After all, Thai cooking is renowned for
Bottling the Best of Victoria
Mango Tree's Som Tum Thai , a refreshing medley of spicy fresh green papaya salad with cherry tomatoes, snake beans, peanuts and dried shrimps.
its exemplary use of spices, in a balance that brings much pleasure to the palate. “Healthy eating does not have to boring!” Bernardo enthused. An appetizing realization The afternoon’s affairs began to wind down, after the sumptuous lunch and the equally satisfying lecture. Many had questions for Bernardo, excited and interested to learn more about this lifestyle of healthy, mindful eating, towards well-being. For some, it was a gentle nudge to get back on the path of healthy, mindful eating; while for others, it was more like an urgent wake-up call to get on totally new path. But for all, it was a gratifying, realization that you can have your health, and eat towards it, too! Mango Tree is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5:30 to 11:30 p.m. daily. It is located at 7th Ave. Bonifacio High Street Central, Bonifacio Global City. For reservations, please contact (02) 621-3233.
by CHING DEE
Finest wine from this side of Australia
Australis, Bress Silver Label, and Bress’ Le Grand Coq Blanc were served with Chef Robert’s Orange & Pomegranate Salad with prawn and boar’s head & cheese terrine. The fruitiness of the Chardonnay paired well with the salad, as the wine’s crisp acidity, sharp sweetAUSSIES TOGETHER AGAIN: Fellow Australians Brett Tolhurst (middle) of The Wine Depot with Adam Marks of Bress ness, and slight (left) and Mark Matthews of Caledonia Australis and Mount MacLeod enjoying great company and even greater wine. nuttiness swirls around the palate ith great wine comes great times. This proves to be the mantra at for a well-rounded flavor. Bress prides itself the “Victoria: Best of Region” press in its Le Grand Coq Blanc, which is made of preview at the Makati branch of The Wine De- grapes picked from Bress’ 26-year-old grapevines. Marks, a poultry enthusiast—as dispot on November 2, 2015. Hazel and Brett Tolhurst of The Wine played on his necktie and cufflinks worn durDepot, with Secret Gourmet Garden’s res- ing the event—personally loves the Le Grand taurateur Sandra Fernandez, gathered select Coq Blanc, hence he named it after his favorite members of the media to join two of the best animal. With the main course of Duck Confit Suewinemakers from Victoria, Australia: Mark Matthews of the South Gippsland Wine Com- doise with Madeira sauce & cranberries and pany (makers of Mount Macleod and Caledo- rosemary potatoes, the diners were served nia Australis) and ‘2012 Winemaker of the Pinot Noir from Caledonia Australis, Mount Macleod, and Bress Silver Label. In slightly Year’ Adam Marks of Bress. Seven of the winemakers’ best vintages— varying shades of intense ruby and purple, all scoring well as per Robert Parker Wine Ad- the flavors of berries mixed with currant and vocate standards—were paired with culinary pomegranate—with a tinge of oak for that balcreations by Swedish chef Robert Lilja. And anced earthiness—anchored the Pinot Noir yes, you read that right: Seven different kinds against the strong flavors of the duck confit. Matthews served two of his Pinot Noir creaof wine for lunch. A bottle of Chardonnay from Caledonia tions and pointed out that the duck and pinot
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combination will always be a hit. To wrap up the event, they served Valrona Chocolate Cake with chocolate dipped strawberries and chocolate-covered Manchego cheese from Fernandez’ exclusive restaurant Maria Luisa at the Makati Garden Club. The Bress Silver Label Shiraz was served with dessert, whose robust yet focused flavors complemented the dark sweetness of the chocolate with a hint of orange. Tolhurst, a native of Adelaide, Australia, decided to bring both winemakers and their wines to the Philippines in an effort to expand their Australian brands. “We are always on the look out for new things,” Tolhurst tells Expat. “We try to bring variety and at the same time promote the best wines from other countries by bringing them here.”
For both Marks and Matthews bringing their creations to the Philippines was something exciting. Matthews, who’s been a vegetarian since he was around 15 years old, opines that his bottled creations serve well to both vegans and meat lovers. He notes, “It’s great wine, whether you pair it with food or just to unwind after a long day.” “We think this is something many Filipinos will enjoy,” Marks said. “It’s honest wine— not too strong, but not lightweight either. It’s incredibly drinkable wine.” The Wine Depot and Café is located along N. Garcia Street, Bel-Air, Makati. They are open Mondays to Sundays, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information on their other branches, wine selections, and purchasing, visit www.winedepot.com. ph.
Adam Marks of Bress Wines, Mark Matthews of Caledonia Australis and Mount MacLeod Wines, and Brett Tolhurst of The Wine Depot.
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A DV E N T U R E S
NOVEMBER 22DECEMBER 5, 2015
That Bali High! Text by ANGIE DUARTE Photos by CHRIS GALLEGOS
With its beautiful contradictions and deeply rooted heritage, Bali gets underneath your skin and into your soul; in ways unique to this Indonesian island paradise.
Purah Tanah Lot, the 16th century temple built atop an island rock in the sea in honor of Dewa Baruna or Bhatara Segara, the sea deity
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ention Indonesia and the first thing to pop into ones’ mind is, most likely, Bali: the island at the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, between Java to the west and Lombok to the east of the massive East Indies. It is also the island famous for its magical, mystical character; densely forested volcanic mountains; beautiful beaches; bountiful seas alive with coral reef systems; deeply-rooted cultural heritage; plus a lively spirit and zest for life. Yes, with a yearly influx of well over three million visitors, Bali is Indonesia’s most famed tourist haunt. This island paradise is also among the country’s most beloved and prized gems. One of Bali's most visited attractions, the exquisite 18th Century Ubud Royal Palace
As a first-time visitor to the much storied and raved about island, I had great expectations: these were not disappointed, as I willingly yielded to that inimitable Bali high. From praying to partying Like a beautiful contradiction, Bali possesses both a deep sense of stalwart spirituality and a heady, vibrant sensuality; clothed in a rich artistic and cultural heritage. This combination is quite possibly what makes Bali so uniquely, utterly addictive, and is what leaves you in a state akin to a euphoric high. Temples are just about everywhere: from family places of worship, to altars for individuals, and bigger structures for public expressions of faith, the Balinese – primarily Hindu by religion – are big believers in honoring, respecting, even appeasing the gods, spirits and deities. Most places I went, I happened upon remnants of Canang sari – one of several types of daily offerings made by Balinese Hindus to thank the Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa – on the ground in front of temples, homes, and particularly in places of business. The offerings of incense, flowers, betel leaves, white lime and areca nut are made every morning, as a symbol of praise and prayer, and to invoke a daily blessing. Purah Tanah Lot (literally, “Land in the Sea”) or Tanah Lot Temple is among the most remarkable ancient structures of worship, and by far my favorite one. This 16th century temple built atop an island rock in the sea is integral to Balinese mythology, in honor of Dewa Baruna or Bhatara Segara, the sea deity. A sense of sublime mysticism, along with postcard-
Performers of the riveting ritual Kecak Dance
perfect views, greeted us as we walked down moss-covered rocks to the stony shrine. Some of the highlights of a visit to Tanah Lot include receiving a special blessing at the Holy Spring, and seeing the Holy Snakes in a nearby cave. For its stalwart spiritual beliefs, on the one hand, Bali has aptly earned the title “Land of the Gods.” On the other hand, the very same island pulses with an almost contradictory, sensual beat. Those who have been will know what I mean: it is futile to deny that Bali brims over with a down-to-earth passion and lust for life; the more hedonistic expression of which
is Kuta Beach’s pulsating, non-stop party atmosphere. Bars, small clubs, and watering holes - catering mostly to foreigners eager to sample Bali’s legendary night life - line the roads of Kuta district, almost to redundancy. Exquisite artistic expressions The island’s profound sense of both the sensual and the spiritual – the Balinese passion and reverence for life – is powerfully expressed in Bali’s artistic and cultural heritage. From beautifully crafted wood, stone and metal work, exquisite weaving, masterful paintings,
NOVEMBER 22DECEMBER 5, 2015
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A DV E N T U R E S Gardin Bistro and Patisserie's stunning Gothic Cathedral-inspired interiors
Kuta Beach, among Bali's popular tourist spots
and theatrical dances (such as the mesmerizing ritual Kecak Dance), it is plain to see that Bali is a haven for the arts. The Ubud District (Kecamatan Ubud) in the Gianyar Regency is perhaps the best showcase of traditional Balinese lifestyle and artistry. A leisurely stroll down the streets of this quaint and picturesque town reveals row upon row of artists' workshops and galleries, impressive architectural structures (among these, the 18th Century Ubud Palace), and shops chocfull of traditional arts and crafts. The vibe is, on the overall, positive, creative, warm, and every bit enjoyable! It is a small wonder that many foreign artists have made Ubud their home and the center of their craft. One such artist is renowned painter Don Antonio Blanco. Philippine-born but of Spanish-American descent, Blanco moved to Bali decades ago, after having fallen in love with not only the island, but also with Rondji, an alluring Balinese woman. The Blanco Renaissance Museum, the Maestro’s testimony and legacy, proudly stands in the heart of Ubud. Ensconced within lush gardens which serve as home to a myriad of birds and tropical flora, beauty abounds and fills the soul to overflowing. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the museum, and could not get enough of Maestro Blanco’s exquisite renditions of his favorite subject, the Eternal Feminine. It was an added bonus to have been toured by no less than
Traditional arts and crafts at the Ubud Art Market
Blanco’s son, Mario, himself an accomplished painter and a highly engaging speaker. Later on that evening – after a brief encounter with some naughty monkeys in the Sacred Monkey Forest – we dined on a mouthwatering meal of perfectly fried, savory bebek goreng (crispy duck, one of Bali’s food specialties) at Ubud’s scenic Lake-Leke Restaurant. The enthralling after-dinner performance of the traditional Kecak Dance was the perfect way to cap our fulfilling foray into the fabulous community of Ubud. Bitten by the Bali bargain bug I must confess, apart from falling head-over-heels over Balinese culture, I also found myself totally hooked on the Balinese shopping experience! The Ubud Traditional Art Market, for instance, is a shopper’s haven, and requires at least a full day to browse through its countless stalls. Colorful garments, batik, carved curio items, décor sculpted from sandstone, silver trinkets, and
Delicious bebek goreng at Lake-Leke Restaurant
just about every form of traditional ABC’s (art, baubles, and crafts, that is!) can be had at a bargain OR at a very touristy price; depending on how well one haggles. Bargaining is an expected part of the shopping escapade, and a good tip would be to start at the halfway point of the asking price, working your way up or down, from there. Vendors, however, can be more than a tad pushy and aggressive (often calling out to you as “Dahling,” and sometimes even forcibly leading you by the arm to their stall) and if you cannot see this as part of the fun, it is best to shop at places, which advertise “fixed prices.” Teeming with adventure Bali is not only a haven for the artsy culturally inclined set, but also for lovers of sporty fun in the sun: surfing, sailing, scuba diving and more are all the rage on this island getaway. The Ayung River, with its proliferation of whitewater rafting operators, is the go-to place for a rollicking ride down the rapids. My initial trepidation (never before having been on a wild,
whitewater exploit) was quickly replaced by utter amazement, as we paddled and careened down river through nature’s scenic canopy of lush flora, gorgeous gorges, religious murals carved into rock formations, rickety suspension bridges, sand mines, and luxurious lodge retreats. Peals of excited laughter rang out from our bright yellow raft, as we bounced and banged around to the roar of the water and to orders barked out by our experienced boatman, Mahdi (who told us when to row forward, backward, stop and put our paddles up, or hang on for dear life. A bit of exaggerated jest, there, of course.) Deliciously, Bali Food lovers will find that, among all other places in Indonesia, Bali is truly a melting pot of culinary influences. Although local delicacies – including the bebek goreng (crispy duck), which we devoured at Lake-Leke, and babi guling (roasted suckling pig) – are aplenty, international fare abounds, as well. A must-visit is the breathtaking Gardin Bistro and Patisserie in Seminyak. Stunning Gothic Cathedral-inspired interiors and a toothsome East-meets-West menu of delectable dishes make for an unforgettable, multi-sensory experience. Trust me; you will want to dress up for the affair! The place is fancy and fantastic! Have I come off that Bali high? I think not. And when I do, well, that would only mean a return trip is in order.
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EVENTS
NOVEMBER 22DECEMBER 5, 2015
Austria National Day: Night of Friendship and Celebration by VIA BAROMA
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n commemoration of Austria's declaration of permanent neutrality after World War II and regaining its status as an independent country in 1955, Austrian Ambassador Josef Mullner and wife, Kai Wang, hosted a party to honor their 60th National Day on Oct. 23 at the Dusit Thani Manila Guests at the auspicious event consisted of friends from the Philippine government, diplomatic and consular corps, Austrian friends and personalities, who were all welcomed with beaming smiles by the hosts of the evening. With the best Austrian cuisine, wines and
flowing conversations between the guests, the night highlighted friendship as a best way to describe the excellent relations between different countries. Apart from commemorating their National Day, Austria also celebrated its 30 years of being member of the European Union. Ambassador Mullner emphasized their country’s contribution in doing its best to provide assistance and support to the mass migration of hundreds of thousands of refugee and migrants. In his address, the Ambassador also high-
Austrian Amb. Josef Mullner, Bruneian Amb. Malai Hajah Halimah Malai Yussof, and DFA Undersecretary Laura del Rosario
lighted the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the bilateral democratic relation between Austria and the Philippines. “Filipino-Austrian long friendship is tied with mutual benefit and respect,” the Ambassador said. Pointing out, “Austria has opened its doors to about 35,000 Filipinos who are engaged largely in the health and service sectors”. Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Laura Q. del Rosario, for her part, said they hoped to expand and deepen the relationship between the two countries that have already established intimate cooperation.
"We hope we'll see bilateral investments moving in and out. We have noted that the Philippine investors, our own entrepreneurs, are moving across borders to get involved in the economy in Europe," she said. After delivering speeches, Ambassador Mullner was joined on stage by del Rosario and Bruneian Ambassador Malai Hajah Halimah Malai Yussot in a toast for the spirit of friendship, peace and prosperity between Austria and the Philippines.
Austrian Charge de Affaires Gabriele Zobl-Kratschmann; Veltrup Chairman Michael Scheile, and Ms. Lily Wazela
Canadian Amb. Neil Reeder, New Zealand Amb. David John Strachan, Brian Reeder, Mme. Irene Hansen-Reeder, Ms. Anna Sobrepeâa of Lifestyle Asia, Austria Conrad GM Harald Feurstein; Chito Sobrepenâa; Anna Sobrepenâa; Austrian Amb. Josef Mullner; Carol Sy; and Hans Sy Consul General Washington Sycip, and Monaco Consul Fortune Ledesma
Conrad Director of Operations, Leo Holli with his wife
EU Ambassador Franz Jessen with his wife
Gerard Aguirre and Claire Recinto of BDO, German Club President Claus Sudhoff, BDO Asst. Vice Pres. Marie Antoniette Mariano, GPCCI Executive Dir. Peter Kompalla, and BDO Senior Vice Pres. Edward Wenceslao
Hans Sy of SM Prime Holdings; wife, Carol Sy; Gambia Consul Agnes Huibonhoa; and Portugal International Infrastructure Projects principal consultant Reiner Klocker, Maschinen & Technik Inc. president Dr. Mr. Wolfgang Pichler and GeoChris Foundation, Inc. president Fr. Georg Ziselsberger, SVD Consul Tony Rufino Gunter Matschuck, and Resident representative of Hanns Seidel Foundation Paul G. Schafer
E X P AT N E W S P A P E R
F E AT U R E S
NOVEMBER 22DECEMBER 5, 2015
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New Mandaluyong in Bloom There is something to look forward to every month in the city of Mandaluyong. A series of monthly weekend markets is happening at Mandala Park, a 3.2-hectare property located on the site of the former Liberty Center. Mandala Park is touted to be the new enclave of wellness, with a new green wall of 3,000 plants to help lower carbon emissions along Shaw Boulevard. “Mandala Park is all about promoting wellness and these weekend markets are all about launching a community of wellness and sustainability,” Mandala Park CEO Jojo Litton Gallego said. Under the guidance of master food curator JJ Yulo, the weekend market series serves as a platform for locally sourced businesses to show their finest wares. Imagine a Saturday late afternoon shopping for surprising and healthy offerings from the finest food joints amid soulful music that extends into the night. Stay tuned to @MandalaParkPH for more updates.
Your columnist with Sharon Tan and Brenda Te
Dan Layug, Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. president Rina LopezThe Green Mind host Marco Lobregat and Karen Bautista, Marga Bautista, Briana Guingona, Angela Lopez, and (seated) Tere Litton Pamintuan
Mandala Park marketing manager Gel Litton with Mandala Park CEO Jojo Litton Ayna Ong and Abeth Yu check out Pia and Patrick Roa at their booth selling Edy and Gerard Liu are proud of their Fog City Creamery's ingenious Mandala Park master food curator, Chef JJ Yulo Gallego organic milk variants from the Hawaiian dishes using ethically fished tuna ice cream flavors from the south famous Danish milk brand
Antiqueños Welcome a New Shopping Destination The province of Antique has welcomed a new shopping paradise as the country’s leading property developer Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) opened its 40th mall, Robinsons Antique. Situated at the province’s capital San Jose de Buenavista, the two-storey mall is anchored by tenants Robinsons Supermarket, Robinsons Appliance, Handyman, Daiso and Quantum Amusement. The meaningful event formally started with the ribbon cutting ceremony led by RLC president Frederick Go, Robinsons Malls general manager Arlene Magtibay, Robinsons Retail Group president Robina Gokongwei Pe, Antique governor Rhodora Cadiao, San Jose, Antique mayor Rony Molina and vice mayor Elmer Untaran with former Antique governor Exequiel Javier. Congratulations to the whole Robinsons Land Corporation team for this notable endeavor!
The grand opening of Robinsons Antique started with the ribbon cutting ceremony led by (from left) San Jose, Antique vice mayor Elmer Untaran, Robinsons Malls general manager Arlene Magtibay, Antique governor Rhodora Cadiao, Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) president Frederick Go, San Jose, Antique mayor Rony Molina, Robinsons Retail Group president Robina Gokongwei Pe and former Antique governor Exequiel Javier
Marilen Liao, Filamie Aguillon, Rosalie Treñas, Robina Gokongwei Pe and Alex de los Santos
RLC celebrity endorser Maja Salvador
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E X P AT N E W S P A P E R
ARTS & CULTURE
Compiled by VIA BAROMA
VISUAL ARTS
Fractals by Edwin Wilwayco Nov.5to28,AltroMondoArteContemporanea, 3rd Level, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati. For inquiries, call (02) 501-3270 to 71 or email info@altromondo.ph.
Acrylic and oil on canvas by Edwin Wilwayco
Altro Mondo Arte Contemporanea is pleased to present FRACTALS, an exhibition of new works by artist, Edwin Wilwayco at the Altro Mondo Arte Contemporanea gallery. The exhibit is described by writer, Josephine Fatima Martins as “a series in which Edwin Wilwayco animates his continued explorations in actualizing conceptual and material holism.” Martins further added “similar to the artist’s previous visual constructions, Fractals are visceral paintings demonstrating the root plasticity and versatility of paint. At the same time, they are objective abstraction in that they reference forms in nature. They follow the modern maxim: distortion and denaturalization of reality. Visual eloquence is achieved by alternating grades of form simplification and complexity.” The effect of which is a “deeply layered textural volume and vibratory space.” Artspeak: Frank Callaghan Runs until Dec. 5 at Ateneo Art Gallery, Level 2, Old Rizal Library Special Collections Bldg, Ateneo de Manila University, Katipunan
Ave., Loyola Heights, Quezon City; for more information, call (02) 426-6488 or email aag@ateneo.edu. There is a stillness to the photographs of Frank Callaghan that reflects his photographic process. Using only ambient light, he allows his camera time to capture the image before him. In his 2010 and 2011 shortlisted exhibitions, Dwelling and River of Dreams, Callaghan trained his lens on the urban landscape of Manila, transforming images of squalor and chaos into scenes worth of contemplation. In his 2015 Ateneo Art Award winning show Dead Ends, Callaghan continued his exploration of the city, this time London, where he found himself traversing nondescript areas yet eventually capturing the “sublime” in the everyday. Specifically for this series, he recorded the interplay of light, shadow, color, and space as he framed through the camera lens, composition of walls, alleyways and corners that define “dead ends.” Emilia Monroy’s “See Through” Runs until Dec. 12 at the Ricco Renzo Gallery, 2nd Floor of LRI Design Plaza, Reposo St., Makati City. For more information, call (02) 898-2545 and (0917) 839-4545. Emilia “Baby” Monroy is a Filipina artist who’s been based in New York for years and has had solo and group exhibits in various parts of the United States and the world. In an exhibit she calls “See Through,” Monroy shares her colors of praise for the agate’s hidden hues. The stone touched her so because she saw in it a metaphor for seeing the good and beautiful in what may from outside seem hard or plain. Monroy studied at the Art Students League of New York and learned from Filipino master artists such as Lorenzo, Legaspi, dela Rosa, Sodusta, & Piano. Monroy’s paintings are impressionistic pieces of life’s colors. Her God-inspired art depicted through nature, vivid color combinations and versatility in medium manifests that distinctive Monroy touch. Magnificent Masters’ Collection Runs until Dec. 10, Galeria de las Islas, 744 Silahis Center, General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila. For inquiries, call (02) 527-2113, or email galeriadelasislas@gmail. com.
Galleria de las Islas is proud to present one of the most concise collections of Classical Filipino Master Sculptors ever to be exhibited together outside of the National Museum. The sculptors include National Artist Isabelo Tampinco, Graciano Nepomuceno, Anastacio Caedo, Guillermo Tolentino, H.R. Ocampo, Francesco Monti, Saguil, Saprid, Laxa, Angelo Baldemor, Fred Baldemor, Cusi, and Robles. Many of these sculptures have been out of circulation for more than half a century and are available for sale for a limited window of time. Sculptures in both cast marble and wood will be available including two wooden religious works by Isabelo Tampinco, both over 100 years old.
THEATER
CCP’s 3rd Metro Opera in HD season opens with The Merry Widow Greenbelt 3 Cinemas. For more information, call (02) 757-7883 or CCP Sales and Promotions at (02) 832-3706; email at ccpsalesandpromo@gmail.com.
Renee Fleming stars in the "Merry Widow."
The Cultural Center of the Philippines opens its 3rd season of the Met Opera in HD at Greenbelt 3 with the Met Opera production of Franz Lehár’s The Merry Widow. The Merry Widow stars the great Renée Fleming as the beguiling femme fatale who captivates all Paris in Lehár’s enchanting
operetta, seen in a new staging by Broadway virtuoso director and choreographer Susan Stroman. Stroman and her design team of Julian Crouch and costume designer William Ivey Long (Cinderella, Grey Gardens, Hairspray) have created an artnouveau setting that climaxes with singing and dancing grisettes at the legendary Maxim’s. Nathan Gunn co-stars as Danilo and Kelli O’Hara is Valencienne. Andrew Davis conducts. Other productions scheduled for screening at Greenbelt 3 cinemas for 2015-2016 are: La Donna del Lago (Gioacchino Rossini) on December 8, 2015; Tosca (Giacomo Puccini) on January 12, 2016; Iolanta/ Bluebeard’s Castle (Peter Tchaikovsky/ Bela Bartok) on February 9, 2016; Carmen (Georges Bizet) on March 8, 2016; The Merry Widow (Franz Lehár) on April 12, 2016; and Macbeth (Giuseppe Verdi) on May 10, 2016.
FILMS
Goethe-Institut brings Berlinale Short Films to the Philippines Dec. 2 and 3 at the Auditorium of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Intramuros, Manila Dec. 5 and 6 at the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Cinematheque, Baguio City Dec. 12 and 13 at the FDCP Cinematheque in Davao City Dec. 19 and 20 at the FDCP Cinematheque in Iloilo City For more information, visit www.goethe.de/ manila or email to program@manila.goethe. org. This December, the Goethe-Institut Philippines is giving film buffs across the country a special Christmas treat. From Dec. 2 to 20, twelve short films from the Berlinale, the Berlin International Film Festival, will be shown in four cities around the Philippines for free. Dubbed “Berlinale Spotlight,” the films are especially curated for screenings in Southeast Asia and will be shown in two programs. Included in the film roster are Berlinale laureates HOSANNA (Golden Bear for Best Short Film 2015, Korea), Bad at Dancing (Silver Bear Jury Prize (Short Film) 2015, USA) and the Berlin Short Film Nominee for the European Film Awards 2015 Dissonance (Germany), among others.
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IN FOCUS
Calima Pre-Columbian Jewellery
NOVEMBER 22DECEMBER 5, 2015
by CHING DEE
Claudia Hernandez-Mabanta brings a piece of Colombia to the Philippines
I
t’s one thing to know Colombia is more than just great coffee, but it’s another thing to experience it first hand. Claudia Hernandez-Mabanta has been in the Philippines for over two decades, but her beloved motherland stays with her wherever she goes—be it in the deserts of Dubai, the bustling city of Singapore, or the beautiful mayhem that is Manila. Making the most of opportunities Before moving to the Philippines, Claudia first lived in Dubai for four years. Despite being a full-time mom to three young children at that time, she knew she wanted to do other things with her time. So one day, when she was looking for a cake for her son’s birthday—and failed
to find any bakeshop in 1980’s Dubai, she decided to learn how to bake. She started slow and simple, until she ended up making more elaborate cakes and bringing them as gifts to friends and fellow expats; many of whom suggested that she sell her creations. So Claudia, a lover of new thrills, went for it. A friend helped her make an ad for madeto-order cakes and posted it on a bulletin board in one of the grocery stores frequented by ex-
pats, and not too long after, she was flooded with orders—turning her living room into a mini cake factory. She even ended up baking cakes for the (then) Sheik of Dubai. But it was when she moved to the Philippines in 1994 that she knew she found the closest thing to her Colombian culture—roots founded deeply in spirituality and faith, family ties, and love for music and good
Calima store interiors - warm and inviting
companying them eventually to their tombs.” While all these are all historical facts, for Claudia, her business Calima Pre-Columbian Jewellery is all about bringing a piece of Colombian culture to her second home. “I want this to be my legacy,” Claudia shares with Expat. “I want to bring a part of Colombia to the Philippines.” Roughly 18 years ago, Claudia simply sold some of the jewelry she brought back to the Philippines from one of her trips to her hometown Bogota. Soon enough, she started joining bazaars and fairs to showcase the vibrant and exotic designs of Colombian jewelry. “People really liked it,” she recalls. “They find it different from the accessories they find in malls.” And for good reason: Calima pieces are all made of 24-karat gold-plated brass with designs truly close to the tribal culture of CoWayuu bags from Columbia made by the women of the Wayuu tribe
lombia, featuring frogs and lizards (a symbol of fertility in some ancient civilizations), as well as patterns depicting the sun, moon, and stars—as many of these ancient communities showed great appreciation and even veneration for heavenly bodies. It is exactly what is written at the Calima website: “An appreciation of beauty and cultural integrity.” All pieces are made using raw materials—silk, copper, gold, brass, precious gems and stones—100 percent from Colombia. Claudia visits the makers of her jewelry in Colombia at least three times a year to brainstorm for design ideas and to inspect the quality of their products. Customers are also entitled to a lifetime guarantee when they purchase Calima pieces, which entitle them to services like cleaning and repair. To hear of such offer from a business is quite untraditional, but Claudia believes in
investing in her customers. “I love interacting with our customers, answering their questions about our products,” she says. “It is also my way of introducing them to my Colombian culture.” Today, with Calima nearly two decades old, Claudia hopes to open another store within Metro Manila, and hopefully do some business in Canada and India as well. Calima is located at Galeria Lagman Bldg., 6053 R. Palma Street, Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City. For more information about Calima Jewellery and other products, visit their website at www.calimajewellery.com.
times. “This country has treated me so well,” Claudia said, beaming. “I have met many great people and have many true friends from the Philippines. It is my second home.” Claudia embraced her new home as much as her new home embraced her. And her love for both Colombia and the Philippines gave birth to her labor of love: Calima Pre-Columbian Jewellery. Calima: An Appreciation of Beauty & Cultural Integrity According to the The Gold Museum of Bogota, the people of Calima are known for making “splendid gold pieces: beautiful ornaments to enhance the prestige of their wearers, ac-
NOVEMBER 22DECEMBER 5, 2015
E X P AT N E W S P A P E R
U R BA N S C E N E
15
What’s on @ Hotels Compiled by VIA BAROMA
Festive Filipino Fête at Dusit Thani Manila
This year at Dusit Thani Manila, Christmas time is just as exciting for grownups as it is for the younger ones as the five-star hotel will be reliving the magic of Pasko sa ‘Pinas (Christmas in the Philippines). Dusit Thani Manila welcomes guests to a Filipinianathemed holiday wonderland with an impressive parol (lantern), Christmas tree and intricate trimmings made of bamboo and sinamay. Experience luxurious comfort in Dusit Thani Manila’s brand new Club rooms and suites and get 25 percent off on room rates. Guests also receive a special holiday gift of PhP1,200 credit per stay, which can be used at Devarana
Spa or any of our specialty restaurants. Enjoy a good night’s rest in your wellappointed suite and wake up to delightful mornings with daily complimentary buffet breakfast at The Pantry – Dusit Thani Manila’s new all-day dining restaurant. Choose from a slowcooked lechon feast, the juiciest maple-brined turkey dinner, the perfect glazed ham holiday spread and chargrilled US prime rib roast Noche Buena. Each hamper comes with special trimmings such as roasted veggies, pumpkin pie, mashed potatoes and an assortment of zesty and creamy sauces. Enjoy The Pantry’s Christmas sweet and savory stocking stuffers with your friends and loved ones. Make your gifts extra special with Traditional chocolate Bavarian, frosted mango coconut, Oreo dream log and raspberry red velvet Yule logs and stumps. Indulge in Christmas coconut croons, tropical Christmas bark and chocolate pretzels and grissini, and get your hands on some savory lavosh and grissini, The Pantry rub, The Pantry barbeque sauce and Thai pink salt. For those looking for an out-of-the-box holiday feast, UMU and Benjarong are
offering Christmas and New Year set dinners while the Japanese restaurant is also offering Christmas Party packages which include an assortment of sashimi, sushi, teppan grilled meats, sukiyaki, and desserts. Devarana Spa likewise has exclusive programs tailor-fit for the holiday season. Indulge in Devarana Spa’s Santa Claus’s Recovery Pack, a 120-minute treatment that pampers as it rejuvenates. Spa gift certificates and Melodic Collection spa sets are the perfect gifts for spa lovers. “We want to bring the magic of a Filipino Christmas here at Dusit Thani Manila. We encourage everyone to come and experience our lineup of festivities, treatments and goodies that will surely make your yuletide season worth remembering,” said Dusit Thani Manila general manager Bruno Cristol. For inquiries and reservations, please call (02) 238-8888 or email dtmnrsvn@dusit.com.
Experience a Holiday Inn Manila Galleria Christmas
Gift yourself and your family a sweet holiday at Holiday Inn Manila Galleria with its Stay Joyful promo. For PhP3,399++, you and your family can already avail of a relaxing and spacious Deluxe
Room. Also included is a tray full of Christmas treats, a Christmas themed Kiddie Play Pack, and two tickets to Kidzooona. Guests may also opt for the PhP3,799++ package to avail of room with breakfast. Reservation is open until January 10, 2016 for stay dates starting December 7, 2015 to January 10, 2016. Dedicated to creating a family-friendly experience, Holiday Inn Manila Galleria offers a Kids Stay and Eat Free program. This is the Holiday Inn commitment of providing families a relaxing getaway at an affordable value. Also, with the launch of its Kids Menu, the hotel’s kiddie guests can enjoy meals that are not just designed to be fun but also healthy! For more information and reservations, call (02) 633-7111 or email higm.reservations@ihg.com.
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E X P AT N E W S P A P E R
INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER
NOVEMBER 22DECEMBER 5, 2015
Over the past weekend, seven coordinated terror attacks in Paris carried out by at least seven militants wearing suicide vests claimed at least 129 lives, while injuring nearly 400 more. The senseless killings sent shockwaves around the world, spreading dread and fear in most parts of the globe. In the aftermath of the horrific events in France, Expat asks, “What are your thoughts on the Paris terror attacks, and what (if any) do you think can be done to prevent similar tragedies in the future?” Alessandro Iellamo Italian Chairman, Cosieta’ Dante Alighieri, Comitato di Manila
Philippe Baroin French Self-Employed
Patrick Tete French Managing Director, Servier Philippines, Inc.
JB Cassin French Video Producer / Musician
Friday night, the whole humanity suffered incredible losses. No GOD, no religion supports and/or encourages such barbaric acts. Why? We may all have some ideas, our own views and analysis of the complex world that may ignite such horrible actions. I firmly believe we all can do something, or at least should try to do something. All of us should invest in ensuring that we spread and support the spreading of our cultures, education at the root of the solutions. We need to help people in their own places, appreciate, learn, get an education, and be given opportunities to strive and be successful in their own ways. We should encourage peoples, villages, cities and countries as a whole to embrace a policy of understanding and adaptation, a policy of respect for what is different, and accept that we can be different but still be working together towards a world that nurture life and do not destroy it. Grazie.
I’ve stayed here in the Philippines for a long time, that's why when I heard about the news, I was totally crushed and I was thinking that me and my family are lucky we didn't experience that. I was thinking of my friends. I hope they are all well. That's why for me, I hope the next government would double the security of France on people not from their country. Some are totally crazy, but I used to work in many countries like Saudi, Nigeria, Morocco and Indonesia but I never got in trouble.
It's a terrible act of terrorism, but it's not like we fight against an army because we know how to do that. But these people are invisible and that's what makes it difficult. Next time we hear terrorism in France that is coming from these people that are already flagged as potential terrorists, why wait for something to happen? Why not prevent it right at the beginning like isolate them, use electronic device so that you can follow them? But it is not enough. There should be cooperation between all countries. We hear refugees coming from different countries and this may be a way for terrorism to penetrate our countries, so we need to be careful and put systems in place.
I'm very sad for what happened in Paris because it is a symbol of love in France and worldwide. It is a matter of education in order to prevent this in the future. Security is a matter for all of us; a matter for each citizen of the world and not only one country, because terrorism unfortunately is an issue which doesn't stop in the borders of the France. Now is the moment for grieving. We all have to be aware anywhere in the world.
I-Push mo Yan! (Tips and Tricks for Understanding Filipino Slang) by ANGIE DUARTE
I
magine a world without communication: devoid of speech, language, and means of connecting with one another. It would be dismal, desolate, and downright depressing. Language is of primary importance in our lives. It enables us to express our desires, opinions, and emotions in a clear and distinct manner. Language is an excellent medium of expression, and a fundamental outlet of our innate creativity, emotions, and intellectual capacities. To be without language– whether in spoken, written, or bodily form – is simply inconceivable. Brows down, please! A facet or phenomenon of language which is as ever-evolving as society itself is the mutation we know as slang; defined by Webster’s as “an informal nonstandard vocabulary composed typically of coinages, arbitrarily changed words, and extravagant, forced, or facetious figures of speech.” Some see slang as inappropriate; a bastardized use of language deemed improper for use in “respectable society.” Contrary to this opinion (or perhaps despite it), slang is reflective of how a society adapts and tweaks language to enhance communication. Slang is a reflection of creativity, apropos or otherwise. So let’s keep those cultural highbrows (and snobbish eyebrows) at bay, please. “Hello!?! Carry mo ‘yan, ano? Push nalang ng push!” With that, I just admonished you to keep trying (“ipush mo ‘yan!”) because you can do it – you, too, can appreciate slang (of the Pinoy kind, in particular) and be no worse for the wear. Street, Konyo, Sward, Jeje: What’s your poison? There appear to be main categories, in specific, of Pinoy slang, specifically. Other forms exist, but they are derivations or combinations of these categories: • Salitang Balbal or Salitang Kalye - Slang of the streets. As in “Pare, dehins ako Kano, Noy-pi ako!” (Buddy, I am not an American; I am a Filipino.), “Yosi muna tayo!” (Let’s have a smoke.), “Olats ka! Bomalabs mo naman, eh!”
(You’re a loser! You’re so unreliable!” • Coño / Konyo Speak - Supposedly used by the moneyed or more elite youth. As a side note, the word coño, literally, is Spanish for female sex organ. Yep. It really is. Being of Spanish descent, I find it quite unfathomable that this word has integrated into mainstream slang to mean “rich” or “mixed breed.” Tsk, whatever. Or should I say, Kebs! (Whaetver!) This kind of slang involves the use of Taglish, and the abuse of the word “make.” For example, ”Make kwento to me what happened.” instead of just saying “Tell me what happened”. Or the now infamous “Let’s make tusok-tusok the fishballs!” • Salitang Bakla / Sward Speak / Gay Speak - Used by gays in Manila, and largely in the circle of show business, as well. “Pagoda Cold Wave Lotion na ako!” (I’m so tired! – Pagoda referring to “pagod”), “Thunder Cats na yan!” (That person is old! – Thunder, a derivation of “tanda”); “Jowa ko siya.” (He is my boyfriend - “jowa” is a derivation of “asawa” plus the letter “j”). • Jejemon / Jeje / Jejespeak– Commonly used in SMS texting and social networking sites, it is viewed as a phenomenon of Pinoy pop-culture. Ur ban Dictionary says a Jejemon is a person "who has managed to subvert the English language to the point of incomprehensibility." Examples would be: "3ow ph0w, mUsZtAh nA?" (Filipino :"Hello po, kumusta na?, English: "Hello, how are you?"); "i wuD LLyK tO knOw moR3 bOut u. crE 2 t3ll mE yur N@me? jejejejeje!" ("I would like to know more about you, care to tell me your name? Hehehehe!"); “powh / poh” (variations of the Filipino word of respect, “po”). Slang and structure As free-wheeling as slang may seem, there is a semblance of structure involved in the formation of the words. This is where we get a tad technical so hold your horses. Carry natin ‘toh, go lang ng go! (We can do it! Let’s go!) Some categories used by experts to delineate the origins of slang words or phrases are as follows:
1. Derivation – the attachment of various affixes (prefix, suffix, infix, combining form) to the original word; thereby altering its meaning, function, or use; involves manipulating the word itself A. Reversing the syllable order • Ermats / Erpats (derived from Mother / Father, to mean the same) • Dabarkads (Barkada, a group of friends) • Bomalabs (Malabo, someone who is vague, unclear, unreliable) • Yosi (Sigarilyo, cigarette) • Dehins (Hindi, no) B. Repeating the word • Party-Party (a gimmick) • Trip-trip lang (just mucking around) • Pa easy-easy lang (just taking it easy / chilling) C. Prefixes, Suffixes, Infixes • Pinoy (shortened Pilipino + “oy) • Jepoy (from Jeproks + “oy” to refer to a hippie-type person) • Cheapipay (Cheap + “ip” + “pay”, to refer to an easy or loose woman) D. Letter replacement – in Gay Speak, for instance, the letter “j” or the combined letters “jo,” “ny” or “ky” replace the first letter(s) of a word • Jowa (Asawa derivative, first two letters replaced by “jo”) • Nyorts (Shorts, “Sh” replaced by “ky” • Kyota (Bata derivative, first letters replaced by “ky”, means child / children) E. Derivations from definition. The meaning of the word is stretched to apply to something else. • Carry mo ‘yan / ‘to (means “you can do it” or, “you can pull it off ”, from the meaning of “carry,” i.e., to pick something up) • Push mo ’yan - (means “keep trying” or “keep doing it”, from the action of exerting a forward effort, as the word “push” connotes) • In fairness… (as in “Maganda naman siya,
in fairness.” Which means, “To be fair, she is pretty.” Comes from the meaning of “fair”, which means “to be appropriate, legitimate, or just”) • Peg (as in “Magnanakaw siya. Pork barrel lang ang peg?” which means “He/she is a thief; just like those involved in the pork barrel scam.” The word “peg” is used to insinuate or connote a characteristic, mood, or style. It refers to the meaning of the word in the context of being “patterned after something) 2. Cutting or Clipping – taking just a part of the natural word • Teh (from Ate, means sister) • Sis (from sister) • Takits (from kita-kita, means see you) • Fren (from friend) 3. Blending – a combination of two words to mean something new • Chibog / Tsibog (from “tiyan” which means stomach, and “busog” which means full. The word formed means “to eat”) • Ansabe / Ansaveh? (from “anong” and “sinabi”, which means “what did he/she / they say?) • Anyare? (from “anong” and “nangyari”, which means “what happened?”) O, ano? Gets mo na ba? Do you get it? If not – or maybe you simply could care less / could not be bothered with it – Boom Panes! Chos lang! Lest I leave you scratching your heads in confusion…Boom (explosion) Panes (spoiled food), but when combined (popularized by local TV show host, Vice Ganda), the word is a reaction to something or someone boastful; almost as if to say “you got schooled!” Don’t ask me why; the less we know, the better, perhaps. Although I do have my own theories as to the origins of the phrase. Chos means joke; Chos lang, just joking. And if that last bit left you EVEN MORE confused …Sorry na powh, tao lang (Sorry, we are but human! ) Smile!