SANTA'S LITTLE HELPERS
Sikaran:
Photo by Juden Casidsid
WSAA’s Black BeltsMembers of WKC Team Canada
Open Team Division!
We are very excited to share with you the most recent achievement of 11 young martial arts athletes from the Winnipeg Sikaran Arnis Academy. The Winnipeg Sikaran Arnis Academy was one of the three martial arts school in Manitoba that was able to send a delegation of athletes to the Canadian National Team Try-outs in Ottawa in May 2024 and these 11 young Manitobans finished as Top 4 amongst the best of the best martial arts athletes from all the provinces and territories. They secured their spots as official members of TEAM CANADA representing our country at the WKC World Karate Championships this coming October at Albufeira, Portugal. Their dream to represent Canada can only be
realized thru your generous help and support to raise funds to cover their tournament registrations and travel expenses. Each competitor needs $3000 to cover the flight and registrations for the World competition.
January 14, 2025 at 7:00
Photos by Penny Sampson
Photos courtesy of Kelly Legaspi
YEAR IN REVIEW 2024
FILIPINO HERITAGE NIGHT: A CULTURAL FUSION
Resolve to choose: Perpetual joy or fleeting happiness for the New Year?
The relentless march of technology and the intricacies of governance have dramatically altered the world's moral compass. We're now traversing unchartered territory, where external pressures prioritize short-term needs over long-term fulfillment, casting a foreboding shadow over our future and the very notion of happiness.
In today's chaotic world, we're drowning in a sea of commercialization, where the lines between wants and needs are constantly blurred. Our quest for happiness has become an all-consuming pursuit, driven by the notion that true fulfillment lies in material possessions- the sleek electric car, the grand mansion, or the overflowing fridge. But is this really the measure of a life well-lived?
Happiness is remarkably fleetinga gentle whisper of wind on smooth skin, or the brief, vibrant bloom of flowers that attract buzzing bees before withering away. Reality
sinks in that life itself, to many, life itself can feel like a relentless race against time, driven by a pursuit of goals that ultimately leave us exhausted and unfulfilled.
As we navigate our daily routines, joy often seems elusive. We're consumed by the pressure to accomplish our tasks, leaving little time for reflection. Even when surrounded by an array of captivating experiences and possessions, our sense of satisfaction is fleeting. Once the initial thrill fades, we're left wondering: are we truly happy or just momentarily joyful?
Is perpetual joy attainable? A strong yes!
Lately, Pope Francis delivered his perspective on joy. "Joy, the fruit of the Spirit, has in common with any other human joy a certain feeling of fullness and fulfillment, which makes one wish it would last forever. We know from experience, however, that this is not the case, because everything here passes quickly.
Everything passes quickly. Let us think together: youth, youthfulness – it passes quickly; health, strength, well-being, friendships, loves… They last a hundred years, but then… no more." And he continued: " It is in the dual characteristic of joy as a fruit of the Spirit: not only is it not subject to the inevitable wear of the time, but it multiplies when it is shared with others. True joy is shared with others."
The Catechism also discusses the nature of joy and happiness. Paragraph 1723 teaches us “that true happiness is not found in riches or well-being, in human fame or power, or any human achievement… or indeed in any creature, but in God alone, the source of every good and of all love.” In other words, temporal happiness is not enough to satisfy us; we long for the “joy of the Lord” (CCC 1720). Recognizing that God is our Creator and that we rely totally on Him is a “source of wisdom and freedom, of joy and confidence” (CCC 301). It boils down to a simple understanding: happiness is for the body; joy is for the soul.
Wishing everyone a joyful New Year.
Nestaweya River Trail Opened to Donald Street Bridge!
The latest section of the Nestaweya River Trail, from the port rink to the Donald Street Bridge, is now open, marking another exciting milestone for this beloved Winnipeg winter attraction.
This opening builds on the trail's first section, the port rink on the Assiniboine River, which had already been cleared, tested, and flooded earlier this season. The port rink became the first section of the Nestaweya River Trail to open, and it set the stage for this winter’s activities.
Thanks to the Trail Together campaign in support of The Forks Foundation, almost 700 metres of the trail have been "adopted" by winter enthusiasts. This generous
community support has been critical in making the trail a reality. For those looking to get involved, it's still possible to adopt a metre and add your name to this winter landmark by visiting www.theforks. com/trailtogether.
The Nestaweya River Trail offers more than just skating—it serves as a vital connection to and through The Forks site, while linking communities along both the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. Historically, the trail has opened in December only five times since 2008, with the earliest opening recorded on December 21, 2013. The trail, when fully complete, typically stretches over six kilometres and remains open for an average of 50+ days each winter.
Visitors can access the trail via The Forks Historic Port steps or the ramp just east of the Historic Rail Bridge. The Forks reminds all visitors to stick to the marked trail, as only the ice on the official trail is tested for safety.
As a special touch, the first two donor recognition signs, “Metres 1 - 250” and “Metres 251 - 500,” are already up along the trail, with “Metres 501 - 750” coming soon. These signs celebrate the community’s contributions to this winter wonderland.
Stay tuned for more sections of the trail to open as nature allows, and get out to enjoy this unique connection to Winnipeg’s winter magic!
Photo by Emma Honeybun
Kris Ontong family and friends
The Filipino Canadian National Congress held the New Year celebration and share-meeting at McPhillips Canadinns last January 4, 2025.
Front row, from l to r: Rod E. Cantiveros, publisher Filipino Journal, board member, Red River Exhibition Inc.,former PCCM president; Julie Holland Javier, president, Ladies of Rizal; president, Manitoba Council of Canadian Filipino Associations, Inc. (MaCCFA); Genalyn Tan, immediate past MAFTI president; vice-president, FCNC; Mary Jane Napolitano, president, MAFTI; treasurer, FCNC; Anne Evangelista , trustee,Winnipeg School Board. Back row, from l to r, Arlene Evangelista CPA CGA H.B.Com, auditor, FCNC; Kelly Legaspi, administration/instructor, WSAA, Denny Nangan, SOIS Settlement Worker, Rodel Olesco, insurance broker; Kenneth Salazar, PCCM secretary and board member Member; Angela Igne, Lynn Igne and Red Igne, Jr.,instructors WSAA
Kris Ontong and his family, Peggy, Angie, Lexie Ontong, and the Yparraguierre family: Rollie, Lina, Rolin, Fides, Yna and Xavi Yparraguirre.
CHRISTMAS PARTY:
QPAM'S VIBRANT CELEBRATION
Quezonians unite for a fun-filled display of community spirit
The Quezon Province Association of Manitoba (QPAM) truly knows how to celebrate the holiday season led by the current president, Alden Novallasca, together with officers and the immediate past president, Maggie Chan-Urbano.
The annual Christmas Party at Sgt. Tommy Prince Place was a resounding success, with a recordbreaking attendance of officers, members, founders, and guests. The festive atmosphere was electric, with everyone feasting on delicious food and goodies.
The QPAM event is a great example of how holiday parties can bring people together and create lasting memories.
Various games were held that brought together people of all ages and received many prizes. Many
lucky Quezonians and guests won the raffle event. One of the highlights of the party was the special "Christmas Hamper" given to Juden and Aimie Casidsid and their two sons, a newlyarrived young family in Winnipeg, courtesy of Mario and Rowena Arquero, Orvil and Angie Abad, Jenny de la Cruz, Jerome Flores, and Azenith Magno Desiderio. Raffle sponsors include Lasa TV, Ron Cantiveros, Alexciting Adventures, Smartwealth Financial, JB Caseres, Ernesto Ofiaza, Garry Alejo, Chris and Fatima Ilagan, Tricia Magsino Barnabe, and Clarita Nazario.
Major sponsors of the festive event were BMO, Cabrera Law Firm, Naturel Janitorial, UMAC, Canada Bread, and KFC.
The kindness and generosity shown by QPAM to the Casidsid
Friday, January 17, 2025 8:30AM – 4:30PM
Recipient of QPAM Christmas Hamper, the Casidsid family: Aimee, Jerell Anthony, Juden Casidsid, Jennifer de la Cruz, one of the donors, and Kate Ann Santos-Reyes, emcee. Alden Novallasca, president, QPAM, 2nd, back row.
family is a perfect example of the spirit of community and compassion that defines the Christmas season. Santa Claus was a very popular
Christmas attraction, and added to the fun, many elves joined him leading to the gift-giving of Christmas gifts to the children.
Emcee was Kate Ann SantosReyes, and Gil Lacandula, Santa Claus.
Photos by Juden Casidsid
The Winnipeg Jets Celebrate Filipino Heritage Night – Jan. 11, 2025!
Winnipeg, are you ready to make history? Mark your calendars, design your Jumbotron signs and warm up your cheering voices because the Winnipeg Jets are hosting their third annual Filipino Heritage Night on Saturday, Jan. 11 at 6 p.m.! The Jets will face off against the Colorado Avalanche, but the real showstopper will be the celebration of Winnipeg’s vibrant Filipino community – 100,000 Filipinos in Manitoba.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Filipino community with music, dance, and food that will have you saying, "Mabuhay, Winnipeg!"
Here’s what’s in store for this unforgettable evening:
Spectacular Performances:
Enjoy pre-game and intermission entertainment from local stars like DMCI’s Finest, Sisler’s Most Wanted, and the Filipino Heritage Performing Arts Class. The beats don’t stop there—DJ Hipnotic, DJ Tayne, and DJ Headrush will keep the vibes alive all night long.
Famous Faces On-Stage:
Media personalities Marjorie Dowhos and Jim Agapito will be your enthusiastic in-game hosts. Plus, don’t miss the heartwarming performances of the Canadian anthem by the Filipino Heritage Performing Arts Class and the American anthem by Filipino-
Canadian artist Jovelle Balani.
Creative Digital Showcase:
Catch amazing digital media elements created by the talented students of Sisler High School’s CREATE program—proof that Winnipeg’s creativity knows no bounds!
Honouring Filipino Community Leaders
A special shoutout to the Mabuhay District and Kultivation Festival, Quezon Province Association of Manitoba, and Manitoba Filipino Teachers Association Inc. for their incredible contributions to the Filipino community in Manitoba.
Mouthwatering Filipino Food:
Get ready to indulge in exclusive Filipino-inspired eats created by Chef Richard Duncan and culinary entrepreneur Allan Pineda. Featured dishes include:
• Lechon pork belly poutine
• Tocino pork sandwiches with • Marcel’s Bakery sweet buns
• Crispy lumpia with sweet chili sauce
First Shift Showcase:
Be inspired by Filipino youth from the First Shift program as they hit the ice during the first intermission, showing off their hockey skills and proving that hockey truly is for everyone.
Heritage Merchandise & More:
Grab your Filipino Heritage Night gear, designed by graphic design pros Jonato Dalayoan and Marc
Gomez. And don’t forget— team-issued Filipino Heritage Night jerseys will be auctioned off to support local Filipino community initiatives.
Let’s Celebrate Together!
This event is more than just a game—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and connection. Don’t miss this unforgettable night filled with pride, unity, and excitement!
Tickets available now. Join us at Canada Life Centre and be part of Winnipeg’s Filipino heritage celebration!
Mabuhay, Winnipeg Jets fans!
Photos by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal
Spreading cheer: Christmas parties embody the Spirit of Giving and Sharing!
Christmas celebrations bring joy to the max this holiday season, filling homes, offices, halls, and restaurants with the true spirit of sharing and giving. The air was filled with festive cheer as people sang Christmas carols, swapped gifts, and played exciting games, creating an unforgettable experience that embodied the spirit of 'Joy To The World".
Glittering with glam and glitz, the celebration was a true holiday spectacle that left everyone beaming with delight.
Royal Goldies Christmas Party at Chef Couple
With Team J&F (Lherg, Freitz, Ana, Giesa, Rianahtogether with their first client here in Manitoba, Ate Lhen Reyes and Tatay Willfredo Turla.. )
JcandFreitz With Pastor Nomer and Aileen Ochoa, one of their first client when they started in Manitoba
A year-end celebration of The Green Apron Saladmaster for the leaders, achievers, consultants and guests for the year 2024 led by CEO Tina Bailon Lindres
DICT Denies China Hacking Report,
Cites Cyber Defense Efforts
China Deploys Replacement Vessel Near Panatag Shoal After 'Monster Ship' Withdrawal
MANILA, Philippines — The Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) replaced its largest vessel near Panatag Shoal off Zambales within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) after it moved away following a four-day presence, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported Wednesday.
The CCG-5901, dubbed the "monster ship" for its massive size, was last observed about 90 nautical miles from the Zambales coastline after operating as close as 60 nautical miles. Hours after its departure, another vessel, CCG3103, arrived in the same area.
According to PCG spokesperson Jay Tarriela, this maneuver suggests a deliberate effort to maintain China’s presence within Philippine waters.
SSS
Defends
The PCG’s BRP Cabra has been dispatched to monitor and challenge the new vessel's activities.
The PCG confirmed the replacement ship's position using a dark vessel tracker from Canada and verified its presence with aerial surveillance. Both ships' locations lie within the 200-nautical mile EEZ, where the Philippines exercises sovereign rights under
international law.
The latest deployment follows increased maritime tensions, including a December incident where Chinese warships blocked a PCG patrol at Scarborough Shoal. Despite a 2016 arbitral ruling rejecting China’s expansive South China Sea claims, Beijing continues to assert its dominance in the region.
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) assured the public that no current sensitive data has been compromised following reports that China-based hackers infiltrated government systems, including Malacañang and the military.
DICT Secretary Ivan Uy revealed that cyberattacks targeting executive and legislative branches occur daily, with "several hundred thousand" attempts being thwarted. He emphasized that only outdated data from past years may have been accessed, not recent or sensitive information.
“None of the current data has been compromised,” Uy stated in a press briefing, adding that recycled information is often presented as new to claim success falsely.
Bloomberg earlier reported that Chinese state-sponsored hackers
targeted Philippine government systems from early 2023 to mid-2024, stealing sensitive data, including military information.
DICT officials challenged hackers to provide proof of any recent breach. Assistant Secretary Aboy Paraiso and ICT Undersecretary Jeffrey Dy noted that evidence of state-sponsored hacks remains unsubstantiated, while persistent cyber threats from various actors continue.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla declined to confirm the reported breaches, emphasizing ongoing cybersecurity measures and international coordination to prevent intrusions.
The DICT and AFP highlighted the importance of vigilance as cybersecurity threats remain pervasive and evolving.
Contribution Hike, Warns of Long-Term Impact if Suspended
MANILA, Philippines — The Social Security System (SSS) will push through with its contribution rate increase this January despite public calls for suspension, arguing that delaying the hike would weaken its ability to provide future benefits.
SSS President and CEO Robert De Claro emphasized on January 7 that halting the adjustment would not only affect members’ benefits but also reduce the agency's capacity to assist during emergencies. He cited the P9.8 million in calamity loans provided to 500,000 members after the 2024 storms as an example of the SSS’s critical role during crises.
The hike is mandated by Republic Act 11199 to ensure the system’s long-term viability. While immediate benefit increases are not expected, De Claro noted that the adjustment would extend the fund’s life from
2023 to 2053.
Meanwhile, critics urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to suspend the hike due to recent calamities, but Malacañang defended the decision, with Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin warning against undue interference in specialized management.
The Commission on Audit flagged the SSS for failing to collect P89 billion in 2023. De Claro acknowledged the issue but said ongoing efforts had reduced discrepancies to P46 billion. He highlighted enforcement programs targeting delinquent employers to improve compliance.
Department of Information and Communications Technology Ivan Uy explains in a Palace briefing that no sensitive data was compromised amid reports that the Executive Branch was allegedly "penetrated" by Chinese-state backed hackers.Screenshot from RTVM/YouTube
Image from Philippine Coast Guard
Photo courtesy of Philstar.com / Irra Lising
Ultimate New Wave Evolution
(& closely related styles) part 76
It may have evolved and branched out into so many varieties through the decades, but New Wave will always be beloved by most of its enthusiasts especially for the albums that were released during its glorious days in the 1980s, when the bedroom walls of many a teenager were plastered with colorful posters of their favorite bands.
Even I, who have followed the development of the genre to this day, still go back to the heyday of New Wave every time I need some sparks of inspiration to perk myself up on an otherwise quiet, gloomy day.
Sa Úgoy ng Músika
This set consists of selected albums from New Wave's golden phase.
* A Flock of Seagulls - The Story of a Young Heart (1984)
* Alphaville - Afternoons in Utopia (1986)
* Pet Shop Boys - Please (1986)
* The Adventures - The Sea of Love (1988)
* Depeche Mode - A Broken Frame (1982)
* Tears for Fears - The Seeds of Love (1989)
* Erasure - Wonderland (1986)
* U2 - The Joshua Tree (1987)
Sudoku Puzzles are games of patience, numbers and genius! The satisfaction of solving a challenging Sudoku Puzzle is one of the greatest accomplishments any sudoku game player can experience. Here is the puzzle. Good luck!
Solutions for Palaisipan & Sudoku will be posted online www.FilipinoJournal.com
If you haven’t come up with your New Year’s resolutions yet, get on it during the Capricorn new moon in your career zone on Monday. This is a great time to be realistic about your goals and make a solid plan for how to achieve them before the new year officially begins.
Spend the last new moon of 2024 with someone special, because the Capricorn new moon is in your partnership zone on Monday. This is a great time to level up your relationship or meet someone new and see what you can achieve together.
Get started on your 2025 resolutions this week when the Capricorn new moon is in your productivity zone on Monday. Use the end of the year to upgrade your life for the better. This is a great time to try new workouts and health routines and tackle any lingering problems. You got this, Leo!
The last new moon of 2024 is a powerful one for you because the Capricorn new moon is in your transformation zone on Monday. This empowering moon can help you transform your life and enter 2025 with a rebirth. Be the boss of your own life, Gemini. You have the power.
Spend the last few days of 2024 putting down roots when the Capricorn new moon is in your home zone on Monday. Use this energy to invest in your private life as you think about the personal goals you want to achieve, from owning your own home to starting a family. It’s time to start adulting, Libra.
The last new moon of 2024 grants you the gift of gab when the Capricorn new moon is in your communication zone on Monday, and you have plenty to say and do for next year. This is a great time to do some public speaking, write contracts, and sign up for classes to stay ahead of the curve.
Now that the shopping season is over, you can focus on growing your finances when the Capricorn new moon is in your value zone on Monday. This is a good time to focus on how to build wealth and invest wisely for the rest of your life.
The last new moon of 2024 is a very powerful one for you because it’s in your sign on Monday. You’re leaving the year with a clean slate, so this is an ideal time for new beginnings. Go ahead and reinvent yourself and become the boss you were always meant to be.
Spend the last new moon of 2024 recharging your batteries and plotting your next move when the Capricorn new moon is in your subconscious zone on Monday. Don’t force yourself to do anything except heal and get rid of baggage today.
Jodi Sta. Maria Announces Showbiz Hiatus to Pursue Clinical Psychology
MANILA, Philippines — Kapamilya actress Jodi Sta. Maria has announced a break from showbiz to pursue higher education, enrolling in a master’s program in Clinical Psychology this year.
Speaking at the finale press conference for her ABS-CBN series Lavender Fields on Monday, Sta. Maria shared her desire for personal growth and her passion for mental health advocacy.
“I’m taking up my master’s
degree in Clinical Psychology,” she said. “I realized that as a human being, I can do so much more. There’s life outside of acting. While I’m an actor, I can also wear another hat.”
The actress revealed her dream of establishing a center to make mental health services accessible to everyone, including those unable to afford treatment.
“My heart has been set on mental health since I started studying Psychology and got certified in
acupuncture detox. God willing, this dream will become a reality,” she said.
Sta. Maria also expressed her love for learning, noting how being a student brings her joy.
“I enjoy being in class and learning new things. It sparks joy and fascinates me,” she added.
Lavender Fields will air its final episode on January 24.
Malacañang Honors Historic Victory of 'The Voice USA' Champion Sofronio Vasquez III
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with Sofronio Vasquez III, the first Filipino and Asian winner of The Voice USA, Season 26, at Malacañang Palace on Wednesday.
Accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, the president praised Vasquez for bringing international recognition to the Philippines, jokingly suggesting that his victory could be declared a holiday.
“The reputation of Filipinos and music is cemented,” Marcos remarked as he engaged Vasquez in a conversation about his journey on the show, from being mentored by Michael Bublé to performing alongside Sting.
Vasquez credited Bublé for guiding his song choices and shared how Filipino supporters in the United States organized text brigades to secure his win. Despite his success,
Vasquez admitted to feeling nervous before performances, a sentiment Marcos noted is common even among renowned artists like Taylor Swift and Barbra Streisand.
When asked about his future plans, Vasquez revealed he has a record contract in the U.S. but is considering separate management in
the Philippines, following Bublé’s advice.
The visit ended on a musical note, with Vasquez serenading the president with Imagine by The Beatles and A Million Dreams from The Greatest Showman, the latter being his winning piece on The Voice
Rufa Mae Quinto Surrenders to NBI Over Securities Code Violation
MANILA, Philippines — Comedienne and actress Rufa Mae Quinto voluntarily surrendered to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Wednesday following the issuance of an arrest warrant by a Pasay court.
Quinto arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 around 5 a.m. aboard a Philippine Airlines flight from San Francisco, California, accompanied by her family, according to a Balitanghali report.
NAIA-NBI Chief Jimmy De Leon confirmed that Quinto’s lawyer coordinated her surrender. She underwent a medico-legal examination before being taken to the Pasay court.
The charges against Quinto stem from her involvement with Dermacare, the same company linked to actress-entrepreneur Neri Naig’s legal troubles. Quinto faces 14 counts of violating Section
8 of the Securities Regulation Code, which prohibits the sale of securities without proper registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Atty. Mary Louise Reyes, Quinto’s counsel, clarified that the case does not involve large-scale estafa. “She will post bail. The allegations are untrue—my client
is merely a brand ambassador, not involved in selling investments,” Reyes stated.
The SEC issued an advisory in September 2023 warning against Dermacare-Beyond Skin Care Solutions, noting its unauthorized investment solicitations and potential legal liabilities for endorsers and agents.
Image from NBI Dir. Jaime Santiago
Image from Presidential Communications Office website
Image from abs-cbn website
Whether it’s the splash of the waves that draw you in or the long stretches of sandy beaches, the magic of Manitoba’s many lakes await. Picture the joy of a sun-soaked day, the feel of soft sand beneath your feet and the tranquility of a beachside sunset.
Manitoba’s beaches are perfect for families, where every visit is a new adventure filled with unforgettable memories.
OCTOBER GETAWAY TO THE PHILIPPINES (part 2)
Travelling in our province of "ala eh", aka Batangas, located in southern Luzon, the biggest island in the Philippines, is no longer the same as it was years ago especially with the traffic caused by hundreds of tricycles, passenger jeepneys, hundreds of cars, and the increasing number of population. You could hardly recognize places anymore, nipa and some wooden houses gone, new concrete structures built, and some new streets with names never heard before making it difficult to know the directions where you're going. I call it progress.
Something new in Batangas is the "dragon" fruit farm that we visited in a barrio in San Jose. Since 1990, the fruit, locally known as "saniata", also known as "pitahaya", or "kiwano"or strawberry pear, has gained popularity in the Philippines because of its health and nutritional values. A good anti-oxidant rich in fibre, the dragon fruit has bright pink skin with thorn-like fins and produce sweet flesh with crunchy texture.
by Gem and Lita Anis
Native to Mexico, Central and South America, dragon plants are types of cacti (cactus) but are climbers with long triangular stems covered with small spines.
October is the Philippine month of a large variety of fruits that we feasted on - lanzones (also known as "longkong"), sugar apple (locally known as "atis"), soursop graviola (guyabanao), rambutan "lappaccum"), and of course, papaya and the new dragon fruits.
Eating "balut" experience with the world-famous San Miguel Pale Pilsen beer is fun especially with our two sons, Omar and Rico and our grandson Scott. "Baluts", classified as exotic foods in the Philippines, are duck eggs fertilized developed embryos incubated for roughly 16 days or two-and-a-half weeks allowing the duck embryos to develop and then boiled, or steamed and eaten from the shell. They are known to be nutritious containing proteins, iron, calcium, and vitamin C.
A trip to the largest mall in
Asia, popularly called MOA, located at Bay City, Pasay, a reclaimed area within Manila Bay, that was opened eighteen years ago (May, 200^), also making the list of one of the world's largest, allowed us to feel the 2024 Christmas spirit quite so early - the mall with its festive atmosphere of red and green Christmas decorations, stars and lights and Christmas carols in the air, already swarming with hundreds of people and window shoppers, young and old.
Before leaving the country we're able to pay a visit to our former residence at 35 Miranda Street, Philamlife Village, a gated residential community located in Pamplona Dos, Las Pinas, Rizal, where our children had built their childhood memories of growing up. It must be recalled that Las Pinas, one of the Metro Manila's fast-growing communities, is known nationwide for its Bamboo Organ, salt beds and jeepney factories like Sarao. The Las Pinas Bamboo Organ in St. Joseph's Parish Church is a 19th century church organ known for its unique organ pipes; of its 1,031 pipes, 902 are made of bamboo. Completed in 1824, the organ is still operational.
The Starlite Ferries all-night sailing experience from Batangas Pier to the Panay Island of Boracay, a small island in the Malay Archipelago in the Visayas, known internationally for its resorts and beaches, is an exciting all-evening trip much cheaper than flying by Cebu Pacific Airlines. Staying in a Caticlan hotel for two nights gave Omar, Rico and Scott ample time to stroll the white beach of Boracay, backed up by palm trees, bars and restaurants. And they were able to meet our Philippine best friend, Josie Jimenez Briones who owns the famous and popular wedding venue of Kalibo, Aklan - The Terranova
Garden at Barangay New Buswang. Coming back home the former co-teacher friend of Lita at Talon Elementary School, Las Pinas, gave them the Merzci-made"pasalubong" treats of "piaya" (flat round pastry filled with muscovado sugar and "ube" flavour), butterscotch (individually-wrapped white flour pastry with buttered brown sugar) and "biscocho"(sliced toasted bun with sweet topping).
We'll see you later at Monte Maria. Happy New Year!
Gem beside a dragon fruit plant
Boracay Island
