FilJap Magazine March-April 2013

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Free Mar-Apr 2013 Issue 7

Nonito Donaire The New Boxing Superstar

Charito A True Artist

Sinulog Festival Going With the Flow

Baguio

Summer Capital of the Philippines

Tokyo

More Than Just Cherry Blossoms

Janine Tugonon Epitome of Filipina Beauty & Grace

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Mar. - Apr. 2013

Editor’s note

We made it!

1 year, 7 issues.

W

hen my publisher asked me to create FilJap Magazine from scratch, there was no hesitation on my part, only pure excitement. I knew right from that moment that I needed to come up with a better magazine that can provide vital information on the hottest news, celebrities, travel, lifestyle and events for our Pinoy kababayans in Japan.

And it happened -- from the paper that I used as a dummy, to releasing the maiden issue, to finally publishing the first anniversary issue.

But this wouldn’t be possible at all without the help of some people whom I consider the driving force behind the success of the magazine. My team, composed of talented and creative individuals who passionately share their skills and talents every single issue; the contributors who unselfishly commit themselves in providing works for free; the advertisers who undoubtedly trust the magazine as a tool in promoting their products; the readers who ardently find time to read the magazine despite their busy schedules; and the publisher who unknowingly making my dream come true of heading a publication.

I truly appreciate the great feedback and support you have given us. Maraming salamat and we hope you will continue to journey with us for many years to come.

Florenda Corpuz Editor-in-Chief FilJap Magazine

Editor’s pick

We Want Your Photos!

Title: In Full Bloom Subject: Cosmos Photographer: Din Eugenio

Send your submissions to the editor at dang010@yahoo.com or filjapmagazine@yahoo.com.

Resolution must be 300 dpi at actual print size. Please include applicable credits and captions.

8 Janine Tugonon

Epitome of Filipina Beauty & Grace 10 Nonito Donaire

The New Boxing Superstar 11 Charito A True Artist 12 Baguio

Summer Capital of the Philippines 14 Sinulog Festival

Going With the Flow 16 Tokyo

More Than Just Cherry Blossoms 17 Spring Cleaning

Detox Your Body 18 Hana-matsuri

Celebrating the Flower Festival

FilJap M A G A Z I N E

Publisher: Yonei Toshikazu Editor-in-Chief: Florenda Corpuz Associate Editor: Nel Salvador Contributors / Photographers: Din Eugenio (Tokyo) • Oliver Corpuz (Manila) Advertising Executive: Judith Takahashi Distribution Executive: Genie Omata Layout Artist: VerJube Photographics Tokyo Office: 3-35-21-409 Shinden Adachi-ku 123-0865 Tokyo, Japan Telephone: 03-6903-2100 Fax: 03-6903-2101 E-mail: filjapmagazine@yahoo.com Manila Office: 232 Amapola Street, Palm Village, Makati City, Philippines Telephone: 63(2) 403-42-06 Website: http://issuu.com/filjapmag Facebook: FilJap Magazine FilJap Magazine is published by FilJap Consulting. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher.

FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

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Office of the Vice President Message Republic of the Philippines Office of the Vice President It is my utmost honor to extend my warm greetings and congratulations to the FILJAP Magazine on the celebration of its 1st anniversary.

I commend the people behind FILJAP for putting up a magazine that best suits the needs of Filipinos living and working in Japan. I hope that you will also continue your ardent desire to inform, entertain, and empower Filipino and Japanese citizens.

I am certain your endeavors will serve as sources of strength and inspiration to all Filipino-Japanese citizens. May FILJAP Magazine achieve more accomplishments in the years to come.

Mabuhay kayong lahat!

JEJOMAR C. BINAY

Jejomar C. Binay Vice President

Embassy of the Philippines Tokyo Message My warmest congratulations to FILJAP Magazine on its first anniversary.

In its first year of existence, FILJAP Magazine has proven its value for the Filipino community in Japan by providing not only the latest news but also articles on a wide range of areas that benefit those of us who live and work away from home.

Such information serves us well as we face various challenges that come with living in a country that is, in many ways, very different from our own.

I also find it commendable that FILJAP Magazine regularly features articles on tourism destinations in the Philippines. The Philippines has become a tourist "hot spot" in recent years with the opening of many new hotels and resorts and improvements in tourism infrastructure. I hope this will encourage our kababayans to visit the beautiful places in our country and to bring their Japanese family and friends as well.

To the management, staff and writers of FILJAP Magazine, keep up the good work. I wish you more power and success in the years to come.

Mabuhay!

MANUEL M. LOPEZ Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines

Japan Foundation, Manila Message Congratulations FILJAP Magazine!

The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) in its mission to promote international cultural and arts exchanges between the Philippines and Japan extends its sincere felicitations to FILJAP Magazine as it celebrates its First Year Anniversary.

We salute your efforts in bringing the news from the Philippines closer to all the Filipinos living and working in Japan and wish you success in the coming years.

Mabuhay!

SHUJI TAKATORI Director The Japan Foundation, Manila 6

FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

FILCOM WATCH

Okinawa Donates JPY 1.5 Million For ‘Pablo’ Victims

T

he Okinawa Prefectural Government led by Governor Hirokazu Nakaima donated JPY 1 million for the victims of Typhoon ‘Pablo’ last December 28, 2012. In addition, the 48 members of the Okinawa Prefectural Assembly led by its Chairman Masaharu Kina also donated JPY 500,000 for ‘Pablo’ victims.

The donation from Okinawa, which totals JPY 1.5 million, was personally handed over to Philippine Honorary Consul General in Okinawa Asako Alarcon by Okinawa Vice Governor Yoshiyuki Uehara.

On 15 January, representatives of Honorary Consul General Alarcon, Ms. Hitomi Kinjo and Ms. Frances Komesu, turned over the donation from Okinawa to Philippine Ambassador to Japan Manuel M. Lopez at the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo.

Ambassador Lopez requested the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Okinawa to forward his letters of appreciation to Governor Nakaima and to the Okinawa Prefectural Assembly for their generosity and solidarity to those affected by the typhoon. The Ambassador expressed the hope that the strategic partnership between the Philippine and Japan, particularly with Okinawa, will continue to deepen and strengthen.

Okinawa is home to around 1,600 Filipino nationals.

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an Event

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e are inviting all FilCom organizations to send us your event announcements for possible publication.

Please send them to

JFC Concert

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n line with its 2nd year anniversary celebration, the Japan Filcom Chorale (JFC), led by choirmaster Dr. Mhel Kasuya, will hold a concert titled “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika” on April 19, 7:30 p.m. at Marui Department Store 11F, Kita Senju in Tokyo.

The Japan FilCom Chorale is composed of different church choir members in the Kanto area.

6th PSRCI 5K Charity Fun Run WHAT: 6th Peace Striders 5K Charity Fun Run WHEN: April 21 (Sunday), 9:15 a.m.

WHERE: Sakuradamon Gate, Tokyo Imperial Garden

Publish e B ed.

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o you have the knack for writing?

Do you have something in mind that you want to share? This is your chance to be heard!

FilJap Magazine is inviting you, our valued readers, to submit informative, entertaining and interesting articles (must be written in 300-500 words, MS Word format) and photos (should be in high resolution, 100 dpi at the minimum), which are original and never been published in other newspapers or magazines.

Announcements of events are also welcome.

You can send them to filjapmagazine@ yahoo.com.

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FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

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COVER STORY Beauty. Brains.

Grace. Confidence.

Faith. Cobra Walk.

These were some of the qualities that brought Janine Tugonon to world stage and popularity as she represented the Philippines at the Miss Universe Pageant held at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada last year.

Photos courtesy of Š Miss Universe L.P., LLLP

Janine Tugonon:

Epitome of Filipina Beauty and Grace

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FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

T

he 23-year-old stunner conquered the stage with her signature “cobra walk” as she showcased her evening gown, swimwear and national costume in front of judges – singer-songwriter CeeLo Green, world series champion and MVP Pablo Sandoval, photographer Nigel Barker, singer-actor Diego Boneta, TV personality Scott Disick, celebrity stylist Brad Goreski, award-winning chef Masaharu Morimoto, Miss Universe 2012 Ximena Navarrete, Olympic gold medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings, TV star Lisa Vanderpump and millions of televiewers worldwide.

And among the 88 beautiful ladies who represented their respective countries, Janine became one of the five beauties who made it to the final round, the question and answer portion, that tested the wittiness of the candidates.

The Pinay beauty, who stands 5’8, gave an answer worthy of the title.

Famous photographer Nigel Barker asked Janine, a licensed pharmacist who graduated cum laude at the University of Santo Tomas, “As an international ambassador, do you believe that speaking English should be a prerequisite to being Miss Universe? Why or Why not?”

The Filipina beauty confidently answered, “For me, being Miss Universe is not just about knowing how to speak a specific language. It’s being able to influence and inspire other people. As long as your heart wants to serve and you have a strong mind to show to people, then you can be Miss Universe.”

Thunderous applause from the audiences came and the whole country thought the title was in the bag for Janine who was a constant favorite all throughout the competition. When everything was settled, the Filipina beauty was heralded as “Miss Universe 1st runner-up”, playing second fiddle to Miss USA Olivia Culpo.

Many believe that the title should have been given to the Pinay beauty but it is a contest where the judges’ decision holds sacred. Janine, poised and gracious as ever, expressed her happiness with her achievement and that of Olivia, which endeared her more to her countrymen.

Being hailed as the second most beautiful woman in the pool of 88 is a great feat in itself especially so that Janine has big shoes to fill, her predecessors Shamcey Supsup won third runner-up in 2011’s competition while Venus Raj won fourth runner-up in 2010.

The last time the Philippines was close to getting the title was in 1999 with Miriam Quiambao representing the country. So far, the Philippines has produced two Miss Universe title holders in the person of Gloria Diaz in 1969 and Margie Moran in 1973.

Janine not only exuded grace, sophistication, beauty and intelligence that every Filipina possesses but also the confidence, character and values that made her stood out among all other girls in the competition.

Above all, she was able to bring across a message that women of today are empowered and are fully aware of their potentials and the many possibilities that await them; that women can do so much more and can become who they want to be, contributing to the betterment of the world.

“I think the most important message we can get across through the Miss Universe Pageant is that women are not just meant to stay at home. Women can also be leaders.

We have the strength. We can be independent, and we can do what men can do,” said Janine who hails from Balanga, Bataan.

Truly, an epitome of Filipina beauty and grace.

FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

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IN FOCUS Unti-unti nang nakakamtan ni boxing champ Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire ang katuparan ng kanyang mga pangarap matapos siyang tanghaling “Boxer of the Year” ng ESPN, Yahoo! Sports at Ring Magazine bunsod ng matagumpay na pagdepensa sa kanyang World Boxing Organization super bantamweight title laban sa Mehikanong si Jorge Arce noong Disyembre 15, nakaraang taon sa Houston, Texas, U.S.A.

B

ukod sa bagong titulo na ibinigay sa kanya ng tatlong sports media organization, panglima rin sa pound-forpound list si Donaire na resulta ng kanyang apat na magkakasunod na panalo matapos siyang umakyat sa junior featherweight division noong 2012. Bukod kay Arce, tinalo niya sina Wilfredo Vazquez noong Pebrero, Jeffrey Mathebula noong Hulyo at Toshiaki Nishioka noong Oktubre gamit ang kanyang bilis, lakas at depensa.

Matatandaan na ang titulong ito ay tatlong beses na ibinigay kay Manny Pacquiao na natalo sa mga laban niya noong nakaraang taon kina Timothy Bradley at Juan Manuel Marquez.

Ayon sa mga boxing analysts, hindi nakakapagtakang si Donaire na ang susunod sa yapak ni Pacman dahil sa kanyang ipinakitang husay at disiplina.

Pinuri rin ng ESPN ang pagsali ni Donaire sa Voluntary Anti-Doping Association na nag-aatas ng mas mahigpit na pagsusuri sa mga boksingero.

Samantala, magiliw na 10

Nonito Donaire: The New Boxing Superstar

tinanggap ni Donaire ang mga papuri mula kay Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III sa isang courtesy call sa Malacañang, Sa panayam ng media, sinabi ni Donaire na sadyang napaka-chill ng pangulo at may positibong aura. “This is one person na nakita ko talaga who just wants a good nation, wants our nation to improve. Makikita mo talaga from his words and from his demeanor and his emotions that he really loves this country and to me, it was such an honor that I was able to talk to him.”

Ayon pa sa Pinoy boxing champ, siya ay binigyan ng mga payo ng pangulo ukol sa kanyang boxing career. “Binigyan niya ako ng pointers as to- there is a beginning and there is an ending- and that when that time comes for me, especially in boxing, I should do (and decide) things the right way.”

Masayang-masaya rin si Donaire sa balitang nagdadalang-tao ang kanyang maybahay na si Rachel sa kanilang unang supling.

“Masaya ako sa lahat ng mga awards and victories sa 2012. Pero

FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

parang nabalewala lahat nung sabihan ako ng wife ko na magkakaanak na kami. Sinabi ko sa manager at promoter ko that June, July, and August, ayokong lumaban. Kahit millions and millions of dollars sa fight, I want to be with my baby and my wife,” saad ni Donaire sa kanyang Twitter account.

Isinilang sa Talibon, Bohol noong Nobyembre 16, 1982, si Donaire ay lumaki sa General Santos City, South Cotabato. Labing-isang taong gulang siya nang siya ay sumama sa kanyang ama, dating amateur boxer, sa Amerika at doon nanirahan.

Sakitin at palagian nang biktima ng bullying, pinatunayan ni Donaire ang kanyang husay sa boxing noong siya ay labing-isang taong gulang.

Inihahandog niya ang kanyang bawat laban sa kanyang mga mahal sa buhay na patuloy na sumusuporta sa kanya mula sa simula hanggang sa kanyang matutuhang mahalin ang sports na dati’y hindi niya gusto.

Si Donaire ay may naitalang 31 na panalo, 1 talo, 0 draw at 20 knockouts sa kanyang 32 na laban.

SPOTLIGHT

Charito: A True Artist Filipina and Japan-based jazz superstar Charito began her international career in the early ‘90s, with the release of her first album called “This Girl” in Japan. With impressive album sales in several countries and sold-out shows in Asia, North and Latin America and Europe, she is considered one of the most prominent singers in the genre.

FilJap: How would you describe yourself as a jazz chanteuse? Why? Charito: A song stylist, creating the mood in the moment.

FilJap: You have a new CD coming out entitled “Affair to Remember”. Please tell us something about this album.

Charito: It’s a collection of timeless love ballads, my first.

FilJap: Will there be any promotional tours in Japan and in the Philippines?

Charito: I started promoting this album after its release last December 12, 2012 around Japan with a CD launch live series through February. I’m presently in Manila doing promotional shows (as of this writing).

FilJap: How did you become musically inclined?

Charito: I have always been the singer since childhood; singing was second nature.

FilJap: Who are your musical influences?

Charito: It evolved through the years from Stevie Wonder, Motown singers to Joao & Astrud Gilberto, then in later years Sarah Vaughan, Nancy Wilson, among others.

FilJap: Why did you choose to pursue jazz over other forms of music?

Charito: Freedom of expression and limitless creativity FilJap: Who is your favorite jazz singer?

Charito: Not one but many, Stevie Wonder is a big favorite.

equal next to New York in the world with many jazz artists that has a serious following.

FilJap: Where do you get inspiration in interpreting a non-jazz piece as a jazz piece?

Charito: My love to recreate and make a piece my own.

FilJap: How does it feel to be performing with other jazz giants?

Charito: I feel awesomely blessed.

FilJap: Apart from music, what are your other interests?

Charito: Educating and helping other singers achieve their goal to polish their craft; charity work to help inspire other people through music.

Charito: Work hard to better your craft. Preparation, commitment and dedication.

FilJap: What is your message to your Filipino fans in Japan?

Charito: Thank you for your continued support. I hope you can check out more of our local jazz scene happenings. Your support keeps us growing to become better musicians.

www.charito.com

FilJap: What made you decide to form the “Because We Care Group”?

Charito: As my way of sharing the gift of music with other volunteers like myself to help unfortunate, under privileged children; and to help raise social consciousness and form connections through music.

FilJap: You have performed in so many venues around the world, is there anything else that you want to do career-wise?

Charito: More than just for my own career, I want to open up doors for many lesser-known brilliant Filipino musicians.

I produced the first Tokyo-Manila Jazz & Arts Festival last May 2012. I want to make these two cities as platform for world-class jazz. Put the Philippine mark on jazz and at the same time help create the future stars of jazz.

FilJap: What inspired you to make Japan home?

Charito: It’s highly sophisticated music culture.

FilJap: What do you miss most about the Philippines?

Charito: Family gatherings, food and senseless crazy jokes, happy people

FilJap: Specifically, how does the jazz scene in Japan compare to that of the Philippines and other countries?

Charito: Japan ranks top, if not

FilJap: We have a lot of talented Filipino singers; can you share with them your formula for success?

E

IV EXCLUS

FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

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PHILIPPINE ADVENTUREs

For many, Baguio is the place to be if you want to experience temperatures and climes different from the hot, stuffy tropical weather our country is known for. Especially if you aren’t used to seeing and being in cooler places, Baguio offers a variety of delights that you won’t see or experience in the lowlands.

Baguio:

Summer Capital of the Philippines Text and Photos by Tim Ramos

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FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

Things to Do: There’s already a lot to do within Baguio City itself – you can walk around and sample the various street foods, especially around Burnham Park. The strawberry taho and chicharon are the best of the lot, but there are other delicious tidbits you can enjoy, like the fishballs and the mangga + bagoong combo. Also in Burnham Park is the man-made lake where you can go boating – perfect for couples, as long as no one falls into the (really) murky depths – or biking. People content with even simpler and thriftier fare can simply pick a spot, lay-out a cloth and enjoy a picnic.

Food-wise, there are a number of must-visit places like the Café By The Ruins, PNKY Café, 50’s Diner, Oh My Gulay and Forest House.

Session Road also has a number of good restaurants, so you won’t experience any lack of options.

Same goes for the Camp John Hay area.

While there is a sprawling SM Mall on one of the highest hills in the city, it’s preferable to do your shopping in other areas. The public market is a good place to start, especially for pasalubongs, as they are usually cheaper here – just make sure to check expiration dates for food products and haggle for the lowest possible price. You can also find fresh vegetables, especially the ones that flourish in cooler weather, such as different varieties of lettuce and cabbages, broccoli, cauliflowers, bok choi, watercress, and many more. Same goes with the fruits – strawberries, lemons, limes, and the humongous Sagada oranges. Other finds in the market are flowers and coffee.

Speaking of shopping, there are few better places than to go hunting for ukay-ukay finds than Baguio, where the practice actually originated. There are also a lot of stalls where you can buy secondhand designer bags for a fraction of the original price – just make sure you know what details to check for, such as serial numbers and such.

There are also a couple of museums and cultural locations you can visit, such as the local city museum, as well as the Tam-Awan Village and the BenCab Museum.

The last two are located outside the city proper, but not too far to be hard to access through commuting.

Camp John Hay, the Philippine Military Academy, Mines View Park,

and Good Shepherd convent (their Ube Jam is to die for, by the way) are also popular destinations.

Lastly, if you find yourself there sometime in February, you can also enjoy watching and being a part of the city’s famous flower-themed Panagbenga Festival.

Where to Stay: The good thing about being a popular tourist destination is that the city is dotted with accommodations of all kinds, ranging from the barest of the bare to the high-end hotels.

Just make sure to book in advance during Panagbenga season and holidays (especially Holy Week and Christmas to New Year), as the good hotels and inns always fill up the fastest. If you really want an adventure though, there are helpful tourist helpdesks near the big bus terminals, and they can take you – for a fee of course – around the different places in the city where vacancies are still available.

Special mention for the brave is Teacher’s Camp, where accommodations are cheap, but where spirits are said to be aplenty.

Stay at your own risk – or kicks, if that’s your kind of thing.

How to Get There: The simplest and most straightforward way is by road.

Baguio is about 6 to 8 hours from Manila, depending on weather and road conditions, as well as the type of transportation you’re in. Bus trips are frequent and easy to catch, even without prior reservation, although you can choose to bring your own car. Be warned though, that parking space is tough to come by in Baguio, and gas is significantly more expensive there, not to mention the bigger fuel consumption as many of the roads are inclined. Openwindowed taxis are all around the city, so commuting is really much easier in the long run. The fare is cheaper in Manila though, and the cabbies are generally of a more polite and honest lot than their counterparts in Manila, so that’s a plus for travellers.

One (many, actually) may argue that the City of Pines has lost its charm because it has gotten much more congested and polluted now, but while sad, it’s still a good place to escape the heat.

FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Going With the Flow

The Sinulog Festival culminated in a grand and colorful street parade that lasted from the early morning to evening.

Text and Photos by Arlene P. Donaire

My Sinulog Adventure: A pledge I keep, a trip I take, and a prayer I make, to honor the Holy Child, Santo Ni単o de Cebu.

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FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

*The writer and photographer worked as Information and Public Relations Officer of the Tokyo-based Asian Productivity Organization from October 2010 to October 2011. She is now back in the Philippines, working as a consultant with The Development Academy of the Philippines and actively pursuing photography as a vocation.

I

have just recently returned in Manila after spending a week of bonding with family, relatives and friends in Cebu. In the last five years, I have happily compelled myself to always be in Cebu for the annual feast of the Sto. Niño - the Sinulog Festival, which is traditionally held every 3rd week of January.

My annual homecoming to Cebu during the festival is more special, distinct, and meaningful than the other visits and, I always look forward to it because it allows me to renew my Catholic faith, reconnect with my Cebuano heritage, immerse in the festive and friendly atmosphere and enjoy my photography hobby, all in one instance. A deeply rooted Bisaya, I am truly proud of being a “bisdak” (“bisayang dako” or great Visayan, a fun monicker for natives).

Even if I have been exposed to the wider way of life beyond the Philippines, I remain innately Cebuano. So much so, that in 2011, when I worked in Tokyo for an international organization, I came home to Cebu to fulfill my promise to be one with the flow of the festival.

The word “sinulog” is a conjugation of the Bisayan word “sulog”, which refers to the movement or flow of water current. Hence, “sinulog” means “like the water current flow or movement.”

The “sulog” is reflected in the sinulog dance’s sequence - a step forward and a step backward - in synch with the mesmerizing, heart-pounding, and

The Sto. Nino is Cebu City’s single most unifying symbol among the faithful.

The holy masses held in the outdoor altar of the Basilica del Sto. Nino always draw faithful Catholics from Cebu and beyond.

rhythmic beat of the drums. In recent years, the Sinulog theme song with its key lyrics, “tayo na mag-sinulog, kitang tanan mag-pit señor” is played liberally, dominating the air waves in many places and is often used as the main music for performing the dance.

This year, the Sinulog Festival was celebrated from the 10th to 19th, with each day made colorful and jovial by a cocktail of religious, social and other local events in honor of the Holy Child.

I was there to witness quite a few of the events and with my camera, enjoyed every moment - from the outdoor masses in the Basilica that drew the faithful congregations from all parts of Cebu Province and beyond; the festival queen pageant night that featured the beautiful and talented muses of the festival’s dancing contingents; the early morning fluvial parade that traversed Mactan Channel to tour the Sto. Nino image along Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu cities and the solemn procession in Cebu City to bring back the Holy Child in the Basilica; and the culminating grand parade that showcased exquisitely costumed dancing contingents, quite a few coming from outside Cebu. The entire time, there were also commercial and tourism-driven activities taking place in many parts of the city, presumably taking advantage of the festive occasion’s crowd draw. All these events were held in recognizable venues across the city - at the Basilica de Sto. Niño, the Cebu City

This year’s Sinulog festival queen is the statuesque and charming Jamie Herrell, from the Masbate Contingent.

Sports Center, the city’s central landmark – Fuente Osmena, the malls and other local watering holes.

The Sinulog Festival, over the past two decades, has become an important part of the Cebuano life. From its simple roots in the early 1980s as a faithbased social commemoration of the feast of the Child Jesus, the festival has evolved to become a high point of the city’s calendar, perhaps even surpassing any other local celebration. As in past years, during the festival the city is virtually transformed into a larger than life amusement park, a touristic magnet, a merchant’s delight and a pilgrimage destination all rolled into one. This unusual cacophony of activities, both social and solemn, though pleasant may be seen as somewhat ironic, especially by those who are not used to seeing an entire city “dance to the beat” driven by a religious belief but celebrating with a great degree of commercialism. But to many Cebuanos who have experienced or observed the festival as part of the local lifestyle, it is a welcome event that is embraced with much anticipation and celebrated with relish. Beyond the pageantry and music, one truth remains – Cebu City’s catholic faith is strong and alive. To many Cebuanos, the Festival symbolizes the city’s multifaceted character - the dynamism of the citizens, the profoundness of the Catholic faith and the vibrance of the Cebuano heritage.

The writer and photographer, Arlene Donaire, with the dancers of Tribu Basakanon of Cebu City, a sinulog veteran winner and crowd favorite, which won 2nd place this year in the contingent dance competition.

FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

15

Tokyo: More Than Just Cherry Blossoms Text by Herlyn Gail Alegre

L

ike adding insult to injury, we also didn’t get to see the famous cherry blossoms in full bloom because we arrived at the end of April. The dates when the cherry blossoms are expected to bloom are usually posted online a few months before. But if you weren’t able to catch them like us, cheer up, because cherry blossoms are not everything Japan has to offer. Tokyo will surprise you in more ways you can ever imagine.

Tokyo is a land that fuses rich history and advanced technology.

We went to the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, the oldest temple in Tokyo.

Within the compound, it houses the Main Hall and the Five-Storied Pagoda, adjacent to it is the Shintoist Asakusa Shrine. You can also catch a glimpse of the Tokyo Sky Tree towering in the distance. We lighted incense for good luck and paid respects to their gods.

We also tried determining our fortune through the o-mikuji – fortunes written on strips of paper. After that, we headed to the port, approximately a five-minute walk away from the temple, to board a waterbus (which looks like a spaceship from a sci-fi movie) bound to Odaiba, a man-made island originally built as a defense against the invading American troops in 1853. Our cruise along the Sumida River took around 50 minutes long and cost us 1,500 yen. The ride from downtown Asakusa to the highly urbanized Odaiba was like a travel from the past to the future. We found 16

For a Japan junkie like me, a trip to Tokyo is not just any other trip. It is that one big trip you’ve been seeing inside your head in your waking moments and dreaming about at night repeatedly. When that special day finally came, I had a really bad flu! I had a fever while riding the roller coaster at Disney Sea and I had to toss Bioflu tablets in my mouth in the middle of my favorite band’s concert at the Tokyo Dome. How perfect could that get?

out that Odaiba is the home of the 50-ft high Gundam statue; a smaller replica of the Statue of Liberty; the 377ft high Daikanransha; and state of the art shopping malls like the Venetianinspired Venus Fort. I suggest, on your way back to central Tokyo, try riding the Yurikamome Line, Tokyo’s first automated train. From there you’ll get a good view of the Rainbow Bridge too!

Tokyo is the haven of the ordinary and the avant-garde.

Knowing that Tokyo is the embodiment of fashion and pop culture at its best, we explored its shopping districts – Harajuku and Shibuya. While in the train, I observed how the salary men in their regal business suits and teenagers in their outrageous clothes compliment like opposite ends of a spectrum.

Harajuku offers a long line of shops for clothes, shoes and everything else you can think of. You can also explore Omotesando and Takeshita Dori for an extended shopping spree.

From Harajuku Station, we walked towards the Meiji Jingu where the cosplayers and fashion enthusiasts hang out on Sunday afternoons. Redhaired teenagers in medieval gowns and doll-like youngsters in blonde wigs and strawberry-printed dresses greeted us. In Shibuya, a few stations away from Harajuku, we visited the statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog, which is a famous landmark. The renowned Shibuya Crossing is best viewed at the second floor of Shibuya Tsutaya

FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

Photos by Din Eugenio

TRAVEL JAPAN

while having a glass of your favorite Starbucks coffee. For first timers in Tokyo, it is a must to witness the sea of people crossing the streets.

Approximately one million people are said to be crossing this pedestrian every day. A short walk away is Shibuya 109, home to around 110 shops in 10 floors - surely a shopaholic’s paradise!

Also, when in Tokyo, never miss the chance to experience the JPOP craze.

We watched the concert of our favorite band, KAT-TUN, at the Tokyo Dome for three straight nights! If you thought you already know what being a fan is all about, watch a JPOP concert in Tokyo and you’ll never be the same when you get home.

Lastly, I can say that Tokyo is a place of really nice people. We have some preconceived notions about what the Japanese are like but you can neither confirm nor deny unless you give them a chance to prove the case. In my experience, whenever they are asked for directions or help, despite their busy schedules and fastpaced life, they would stop whatever they are doing to attend to our concern or if they can’t, they would make sure they find someone to assist us. To my surprise, some of them spoke really good English.

Just when I thought that I already know what to expect in this trip, Tokyo had proven me wrong. I guess, I got more than just cherry blossoms one late spring in Tokyo.

health care

Spring Cleaning: Detox Your Body

K

aya naman ngayong panahon ng tagsibol, samantalahin ang pagkakataon na ibalik ang magandang pangangatawan sa pamamagitan ng “detoxification.” Ito ay ang metabolic process ng katawan upang matanggal ang mga toxins na nakukuha sa mga kinakain at iniinom.

Ayon kay Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D, may-akda ng “The Fast Track One-Day Detox Diet,” sa panayam sa kanya ng Natural Health Mag, na tamang panahon ang tagsibol para mag-detoxify.

“Spring is an optimal time to detoxify.

A long, hard winter can leave you feeling lethargic and wanting to lighten up on all levels. As the world renews itself, your body yearns for replenishment as well,” aniya.

Ilan sa magandang epekto ng pagtatanggal ng toxins sa katawan ay mas nagiging matatag ang immune system, mas mataas na enerhiya, pagbaba ng timbang at malusog na pangangatawan.

Maraming paraan upang matanggal ang toxins sa katawan at isa sa mga nauso ay ang pag-inom ng mixture ng tubig, katas ng lemon at cayenne pepper ng ilang araw.

Ang ilan naman ay bumibili ng tinatawag na “Juju Cleanse” na binubuo ng detoxifying drinks.

Mayroon din namang ilang pagkain na nakakatanggal ng mga toxins sa katawan tulad ng: Green Vegetables. Magandang pangalis ng toxins ang leafy green vegetables tulad ng mga sangkap sa green salad – lettuce, broccoli, spinach at iba pa. Mayroon itong chlorophyll na lumalaban sa toxins.

Mainam din ito sa atay ng katawan.

Fish. Magandang alternatibo sa karne ng baboy ang pagkain ng isda ngunit hindi maraming isda ang maraming taglay

na mercury na isa sa mga toxins na hindi kailangan ng katawan. Ilan sa mga ito ay swordfish at albacore tuna. Ayon sa ilang health experts, kapag mas malaki ang isda ay marami rin itong mercury dahil ang kinakain nito ay maliliit na isda at ang mercury ang nagiging dahilan ng pagkakaroon nito ng sfatty tissues.

Green Tea. Mayaman ito sa anti-oxidant at isa sa mga paraan upang mapanatili na hydrated ang katawan at mawala ang toxins sa pamamagitan ng pag-ihi. Tinataglay din nito ang catechins na nagpapabilis sa liver activity.

Lemon. Dahil sagana sa vitamin C, kinuconvert ng lemon ang toxins sa tubig kaya’t madali itong nailalabas sa pamamagitan ng pag-ihi. Ito ang isa sa mga dahilan kung bait patok ang water-lemon-cayenne pepper mixture sa marami bilang pagtanggal ng toxins at pagbabawas ng timbang.

Sesame Seeds. Pinuprotektahan nito umano ang liver cells mula sa mapanirang toxins na nanggagaling sa pag-inom ng alcoholic beverages tulad ng beer. Kailangan lamang ay hindi malangis ang sesame seeds.

Prutas. Kahit na anumang prutas ay sagana sa sustansiya dahil mayroon itong taglay na mga bitamina tulad ng Vitamin B, C, D at E bukod pa sa fiber, antioxidants at fluids.

Marami ang mas kumportable na magdetoxify sa pamamagitan ng pagkain lamang ng gulay at prutas at pag-inom ng tubig sa loob ng dalawa hanggang tatlong araw.

Tubig. Hindi naman maikakaila ang bisa ng pag-inom ng maraming baso ng tubig arawaraw dahil sa pamamagitan nito ay nailalabas lahat Hindi maikakaila ng mga toxins na hindi na kapag panahon ng kailangan ng katawan.

taglamig ay masarap lamang na pumirme sa bahay para kumain, manood ng programa sa telebisyon o pelikula, at matulog.

Dahil dito, hindi masustansiya ang kinakain, hindi nakakapagehersisyo at hindi masikatan ng araw ang ating katawan.

FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

17

ZODIACS & TRIVIA

Aries (March 21April 20) Maraming pumapasok na oportunidad sa iyong karera dala na rin ng pakikisama mo sa ibang tao. Dahil sa magandang pakikitungo mo sa kanila ay hindi ka nila nakakalimutan na isama sa kanilang mga pangarap.

Cancer Taurus (April 21-May 21) Mayroon kang pag-aalinlangan sa mga desisyon na iyong nagawa dahil sa may mga tao sa iyong paligid na may nasasabing hindi maganda hinggil rito. Matutong manindigan.

Libra (September 24October 23) Nag-aalinlangan ka na iwan ang iyong nakagawiang buhay para makipagsapalaran sa ibang bansa.

Tandaan na minsan ay kailangan na gawin ang mga bagay dahil sa bandang huli ay mayroon itong magandang epekto.

Scorpio (October 24November 22) Puno ka ng pagasa ngunit huwag kang panghinaan ng loob kahit na sunud-sunod na dagok ang dumating sa iyo sa mga susunod na araw. Huwag mawawalan ng loob.

(May 22-June 21) Hinahangaan ka ng iyong pamilya at mga kaibigan dahil mayroon kang mga paraan para makuha ang iyong mga gusto. Ipagpatuloy lamang ang pagiging masipag at determinado.

(June 22-July 23) Magiging romantiko ang pasok ng buwan sa iyo dahil makilala mo ang tao na magbibigay sa iyo ng inspirasyon.

Kilalanin mo munang mabuti ang taong ito at huwag padadala sa buso ng emosyon.

Sagittarius

Capricorn

(November 23December 21) Nagnanais ka na magtayo ng negosyo subalit huwag kang magpadalos-dalos at sa halip ay pag-aralan mong mabuti ang bawat aspeto nang hindi masayang ang perang pinagpaguran mong ipunin.

(December 22January 20) Kailangan lamang ng lakas ng loob na gawin ang isang bagay na gusto mong gawin para makamit ang pagbabago sa iyong buhay.

Mas mabuti na sumugal kaysa sa magsisi habambuhay dahil hindi mo ito sinubukan.

Gemini

Leo (July 24August 22) Isang malaking problema ang susubok sa iyong katatagan sa buwang ito. Pipilitin mong kayanin na dalhin itong mag-isa ngunit huwag kalimutan na mayroon kang mga kaibigan na handang tumulong sa iyo.

Aquarius (January 21February 19) Nagkakaroon ka ng problema sa relasyon mo sa mga taong nakapaligid sa iyo dahil sa iyong tingin ay nagiging routine na ang inyong samahan kaya’t nagiging boring na. Bigyan mo muna ng pansin ang iyong sarili.

Virgo (August 23September 23) Pinaghahandaan mo ang pakikipagusap sa iyong boss hinggil sa mga problema na dala ng iyong trabaho.

Sabihin ang iyong mga nais na mangyari nang hindi nawawala ang respeto.

Pisces (February 20March 20) Maganda ang pasok ng taon sa iyo dahil nagdesisyon kang ituon ang iyong atensiyon sa mga positibong bagay.

Iniba mo rin ang iyong tingin sa mundo kaya mas nagiging makahulugan ito para sa iyo.

Hana-matsuri: Celebrating the Flower Festival S

ino ba naman ang hindi mabibighani sa ganda at bango ng mga bulaklak? Sa Japan, hindi pinapalagpas ang Hanami o Flower viewing kung saan mayroong pagkakataon na makita ang naggagandahang mga bulaklak partikular na ang cherry blossoms.

Marami sa mga Hapon ang sinasamantala ang festival na ito, umaalis sa bahay at nagtitipon-tipon sa iba’t ibang parke at pasyalan para mag-picnic, magsama-sama at sabaysabay na panoorin o tingnan ang mga naggagandahang bulaklak na sumisibol.

Subalit, ang pinakamahalagang okasyon na pinagdiriwang sa festival na ito ay ang Hanamatsuri, isang memorial service na ginagawa sa lahat ng temple sa Japan bilang pag-alala sa kaarawan ni Prince Siddhartha Gautama o Sakyamuni

18

Buddha. Tuwing ikawalo ng Abril ang

FILJAP MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2013

kaarawan ni Buddha na tinatawag na Kanbutsue.

Tuwing Kanbutsue, gumagawa ng maliliit na gusali na dinidekorasyunnan ng mga bulaklak ang mga temple at pagkatapos ay nilalagay sa loob ang maliit na pigura ni Buddha o tinatawag na tanjobutsu. Ang pigurang ito ni Buddha ang siyang winiwisikan ng amacha o sweet tea na itinuturing na banal na tubig ng mga Buddhists.

Iba’t ibang paraan ang pagdiriwang ng Hanamatsuri sa bawat rehiyon sa Japan ngunit kadalasan ay ginagawa ito upang mapaalis ang masasamang elemento at pagdarasal na magkaroon ng masaganang pag-ani.

Si Buddha ay isang kilalang spiritual teacher na siyang nagtaguyod ng Buddhism na isa sa mga relihiyon sa Japan.

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