ILLUSTRADO Magazine April 2009

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE INTERNATIONAL FILIPINO

APRIL15 - MAY 15 2009

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Beautiful Philippines

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29

REDISCOVERING THE PEARL OF THE ORIENT THE PHILIPPINES’ FOREIGN INVASION THE WINDMILLS OF BANGUI GETTING RICH DURING A RECESSION FASHION: TO THE DESERT OF THE NORTH SPECIAL TRAVEL FEATURE CHARMAINE CLAMOR THE ANNIE B. CHRONICLES

EDITOR’S NOTE

Pretty a as

Picture Last year on a business trip to the Philippines, I had the chance and the excuse to take my first peek into the Visayas region, for the very first time – a visit to Cebu, albeit for 24 hours only. Just like many of our kababayans, I must admit that I’ve been guilty of having the ‘Manila is the Philippines’ syndrome, and have seen more of other countries than our very own. But as the PAL domestic airline glided down to Mactan Airport, I realized what I was missing. I was instantly awestruck at the sight of verdant islands surrounded by crystal clear blue waters sparkling in the kind tropical sun. It was astoundingly beautiful. Yes, definitely pretty as a picture. Our country IS as stunning as the photographs portray.

However the Philippines’ beauty does not lie only in its physical assets – its unique land features, majestic mountains, volcanoes and plateaus, the white sandy beaches, pristine seas, the lakes and waterfalls, the abundant marine riches and the natural flora and fauna. There is so much more that is stunning beyond what meets the eyes.

There is beauty in our truly colorful culture – from the vibrancy of our fiestas, to the effervescence of our music, to the varied hues and forms of our native arts. Then there is the beauty of legendary Filipino warmth and hospitality – the innate lively spirit and keenness to welcome that comes so natural to our people.

Of course, if you’re a Filipino, there’s also that added dimension of beauty that comes straight from the heart - the feeling of being home. You get a certain sense of comfort, that all familiar calming sensation whether you are in your own province or visiting the farthest corner of the archipelago – you know and you feel that you belong here. And when you’ve settled on that, blooms the inevitable feeling of pride – in knowing that this country which is so truly blessed belongs to nobody else, but you and your people.

This month, Illustrado is honored to carry the seal of the Philippine Department of Tourism and is proud to collaborate in further promoting the Philippines as an amazing destination of choice for both Filipino expats and foreigners alike.

In this issues’ pages, we bring you ‘Beautiful Philippines’ – a look into some of the most astounding locations in our country. We also bring you new things to do, budget travel tips as well as the top 10 summer destinations back home, on top of other interesting and relevant articles and columns we always carry.

Illustrado’s Beautiful Philippines is not only for us Filipinos. This issue has been created with the intention to be shared with our multi-cultural friends. So go on, be your an ambassador of goodwill. The Philippines is counting on you.

My dear Illustrados, have a lovely summer. And if you have the chance, have that next grand holiday in the Philippines – I know I will.

Taas Noo, Filipino!

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

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CONTRIBUTORS David Llorito World Bank Manila Communications Officer, David Llorito is an awarded journalist, the recipient of the Jaime Ongpin Award for Excellence in Journalism (Explanatory Category) and the Australian Ambassador’s Choice Award in 2006. Former Associate Editor of Entrepreneur Magazine Philippines and former Research Chief at the Business Mirror, a Manila-based daily, Dave has more than a decade of experience in socioeconomic research, policy analysis and business-economy journalism in the Philippines.

This month David gives us an insight on the World Bank’s Carbon Financing program in the story The Windmills of Bangui.

Vic Lactaoen

Bernadette Reyes

Formerly with the ASEAN Secretariat as head of Public Information, Vic Albornoz Lactaoen is a seasoned writer who has been travelling extensively around the Philippine islands and the rest of Southeast Asia for over a decade now. This regular contributor to several local and international in-flight magazines, as well as the Manila Bulletin’s Tourism section, still tours on a regular basis as part of his consultancy work and hopes to publish his first travel book on off-beat and interesting destinations in the Philippines soon. Consultant Editor for Illustrado’s Beautiful Philippines issue, Vic also shares with us his list of 40 New Things To Do in the Philippines.

Illustrado contributor Bernadette Reyes takes us through a rediscovery of the Pearl of the Orient in this issue’s cover story. This GMA TV News Reporter was a former business reporter for Today Independent News where she was tasked to cover the Philippine Stock Exchange and the Securities and Exchange Commission. She also remains an active contributor in various publications in and out of the Philippines.

Ivan Henares

Jesse Edep

Doc Marlon Pecjo Taking us to a little known area in the Philippines this month is one of Manila’s hottest fashion photographers - Dr Marlon Pecjo. ‘Doc Marlon’ as he is fondly called by his peers, shoots fashion editorials and ad campaigns for Manila’s famous glossies in between travels around the globe. This photographer is known for truly cutting edge photography with his medical training at the University of Santo Tomas providing him a keen eye and clinical sense in cutting right through the clutter to present images with his very unique take on life.

Jesse Edep is a researcher at the BusinessMirror, where most of his pieces are on labor-related and education issues in the Philippines. He also contributes regularly to the local franchise of Entrepreneur Magazine, where his work encompasses profiles of start-up businesses to story analyses of various small and mediumscale matters.

Ivan’s life work is definitely dedicated to exploring the Philippine islands. His candid journals about his travels are documented in his popular blog Ivan About Town and gives readers a glimpse of true Filipino culture.

Ivan is also a heritage activist, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Heritage Conservation Society and a feisty advocate for the preservation of architectural heritage.

Far from exemplifying the jet setting lifestyle of the rich and famous, Ivan is a passionate spokesperson for backpacking as the reasonable way to travel. In this issue, Ivan unveils tips on travelling in the Philippines on a light budget.

Mariyah Gaspacho Illustrado contributor Mariyah Gaspacho is known for her wacky photographs for the Annie B. Chronicles. She is an active member of Overseas Pinoy Professional Photographers Society (OPPPS) who helps other photography enthusiasts hone their skills through training.

Mariyah is a self-confessed ‘foto adik’ and fashionista by heart, and is a non-practicing interior designer and an obsessive compulsive neat freak, who dreams of having her own studio and photo exhibit someday.

Publisher & Editor-in Chief Lalaine Chu-Benitez Consultant Editor Vic Albornoz Lactaoen CONTRIBUTING WRITERS UAE, Philippines, USA Aby Yap JR Bustamante Anna Lorraine Balita Jude Cartalaba Bernadette Reyes Karen Galarpe Bro. Bo Sanchez KC Abalos Chayie Maligalig Krip Yuson David Poarch Atty. May Flores Excel Dyquiangco Mike Martin Francisco Colayco Shar Matingka Isabel Warren Sherry Tinorio Isabelo Samonte Sonny Guzman Ivan Henares Vic Lactaoen Jeffrey ‘Ximo’ Ramos Victor Sollorano Jesse Edep Jonie Jose ART DIRECTORS Paula Lorenzo Ron Perez CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS UAE Eros Goze Illuminado Ong Melandro Sanggalang Pot Ph Mac Antonio Mariyah Gaspacho PHILIPPINES Dr. Marlon Pecjo Parc Cruz CONTRIBUTING STYLISTS & FASHION TEAM UAE Zekundo Chu Anna de Leon Basil Yunting Jessie Tabla PHILIPPINES Janet dela Fuente PUBLISHER - UAE Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC 2nd Floor, Building 2, P.O. Box 72280 Office 20C Dubai Media City, UAE Tel: +9714 365 4543, 365 4547 Fax:+9714 360 4771 E-mail: admin@illustrado.net, info@illustrado.net Web: www.illustrado.net, www.illustrado.agilaglobal.net

CONTENTS

April 09

FEATURES

Rediscovering the Pearl of the Orient 12 The Philippines’ Foreign Invasion 14 The Windmills of Bangui 18 Phil. Design Royalty at Manila FAME 2009 20 Women of Substance: Illustrado Honors 6 Significant Filipinas 48

COLUMNS

Editor’s Note 1 Letters to the Editor 6 Contributors 8 Illuminati: Honoring the White Mangyan 34 Kabuhayan: Echostore 22 Kabuhayan: Not About the Numbers 24 Spirituality: Getting Rich During a Recession 26 Successful Pinoy: Why Cry Sis? 28 Onli in da Pilipins 74 The Annie B. Chronicles 76

FASHION

To the Desert of the North 36

PLACES

Travelling Light 52 SPECIAL FEATURE: Beautiful Philippines 54 Trippin’: New Things To do in the Philippines 70 Trippin’: Top 10 Summer Destinations 71

36

The surreal desert landscape of La Paz, Ilocos Norte stars in this month’s fashion feature with model Charmagne de Guzman.

68

Entertainment

Entertainment: Charmaine Clamor 72

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12 FEATURE

Rediscovering the

Pearl Orient of the

By: Bernadette Reyes Photography By : George Tapan courtesy of The Philippine D.O.T.

Too often we see in magazine spreads the picture-perfect Eiffel Tower in Paris or the handsome colossal arches of the Colosseum in Rome. Families and friends also recount stories of living the American Dream of gaming in Las Vegas or watching the latest Broadway musical in New York.

Lately, the architectural splendor of the Venetian Macao Resort Hotel and the thrill of the sky jump off the Macau Tower have brought flocks to the colonial Chinese city. Yet often hidden behind the cameras and seldom published on the glossy pages of magazines are the beautiful islands of the Philippines, patiently waiting to be discovered by the world and its own people.

While Manila and Cebu are the most popular destinations in the Philippines due to the presence of an international airport in these key cities, the country’s beauty and grandeur transcend beyond the appeal of artificial structures and man-made edifices that we think are grand. The Philippines is home to some of the best natural yet often taken-for-granted sights not to be found elsewhere. The diverse marine life in Tubbataha Reefs, the sprawling Chocolate Hills in Bohol and the almost-perfect cone-shaped Mayon Volcano in Albay have catapulted the Philippines as finalist in a bid to become one of the titlist of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. These natural bounties are on top of the ever-popular finest powdery-white sands of Boracay in Aklan and impressive Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao.

These local tourist destinations, however unpopular compared with Tuscany in Italy or Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, are nevertheless ready to pamper travelers at any given time in hotels and resorts that boast of world-class facilities and services. The increasing number of tourists has resulted in a room supply of more than 32,000 around the country as of this year with the majority of accommodations strategically located in Cebu, Boracay and Bohol. Yet as the rooms swell in quantity the quality of service never seems to diminish.

Tourists who have gone to the Philippines have witnessed the kind of tender-loving-care that Filipinos genuinely extend to its visitors. “It’s natural for Filipinos to be caring and genuinely warm and hospitable. It’s the Filipino touch – they are friendly but not familiar, they are very nice but not overbearing, they are there when you need them but they don’t hover to the point that they make you feel uncomfortable,” says Benito Bengzon Jr, Department of Tourism (DoT) Director for the Office of Tourism Coordination.

If only numbers were a testament to the Philippines’ beauty, then the country has definitely proved its worth having attracted the attention of some 3.14 million foreign tourists in 2008 which is equivalent to a 1.5 percent industry growth year-on-year raking in US$ 4.8 billion in revenues for the country. While the single digit growth might seem insignificant, consider how these figures fare

compared with its Asian counterparts. According to DoT, the arrival of foreign tourists in Singapore saw a 1.5 percent decline last year in spite of several high-profile events including the Formula One Race.

International visitors arriving in Hong Kong with the exception of arrival from China posted an ever bigger drop of 4.5 percent.

The local tourism growth, says Bengzon, may be attributed to several marketing initiatives undertaken by the Department and the addition of more flights to various regional destinations in the country created by the private sector. For instance, foreign tourists mostly Chinese, Taiwanese and Indians directly arriving in Cebu grew by 6.23 percent last year because of the creation of almost daily flights between Cebu and the cities of Shanghai and Taipei and aggressive promotions through tour packages and incentive travel for Indians. The Diosdado Macapagal International Airport in Clark, Pampanga, the third busiest international airport in the country, serves 60 daily flights to major tourist markets which resulted in a 10 percent growth in 2008. Foreign tourists going to Boracay on the other hand posted triple digit growth during the same period. Taiwanese visitors to the island rose 254 percent while the influx of Russian tourists increased by 314 percent on the back of the department’s cooperation with private sector partners to sell holiday packages.

The Tourism Department is pleased with its efforts to encourage foreign tourist arrivals but admits that encouraging Filipinos to spend their vacation in local tourist destinations before exploring cities overseas can even be more challenging. With a roundtrip airfare going to Palawan or Bohol almost the same price as you would pay for a roundtrip ticket to Singapore or Bangkok, encouraging locals to explore the islands first can be a setback.

Local carriers have been trying to bring down ticket prices to local destinations not only to boost sales but to buoy the local tourism industry as well. So far airline companies have successfully eased air transportation costs with the lowest roundtrip promo tickets to cities like Bacolod, Cebu, Iloilo, Puerto Princesa, Surigao, Cagayan de Oro and Boracay in Caticlan amounting to no more than US$20.

BAKASYON GRANDE 13 With the prevailing exchange rate of the Philippine peso against other currencies, Bengzon says foreign notes can also go further in the Philippines.

are also markets wherein the base is small but the growth potential is big as in the case of Russia and UAE where we are seeing more than 30 percent growth rate,” Bengzon explains.

Despite the tamed ticket prices, a substantial number of Filipino expats who have the capacity to spend would rather splurge on trips in the Middle East, Europe or Asia Pacific. Bengzon says these people tend to delay local trips after all, they can always see the Philippines once they return to the country for good. But he believes expats should consider visits to local tourist destinations as an opportunity to reunite with their loved ones. “Perhaps the biggest motivation in traveling to the Philippines is that it gives the overseas Filipinos the chance to reach out and reconnect with family and friends – to see their faces and experience spending time with them. These are things they can’t experience if they go elsewhere,” he says.

With a budget of PHP1.2 billion for 2009, DOT is not even in the top 20 list of the national government in terms of budget appropriation for this year but Bengzon says the allocation is enough if only the Department is able to use the funds wisely. “I think the most important aspect for us is to provide accurate, relevant, and interesting information of what we have [in the Philippines] and the way to do this is to provide adequate materials to the Filipino community and to foreign tourists,” Bengzon says adding that tourist information about the Philippines may be obtained from Philippine tourism offices, the Philippine Embassy or the Consulate or via the Internet at www.wowphilippines.com.ph

Foreign travelers who shy away from visiting the Philippines because of preconceived negative notions about the country should reconsider. “When tourists travel to the Philippines they realize it is not anything like what they thought of. They begin to see the big disparity between their perception and the actual satisfaction they get and they keep on coming back for more,” says Bengzon.

“The idea is to strike an optimum balance between Filipino tourists and foreign visitors so that when foreign tourist arrivals slowdown, local tourists can provide cushion to keep the business moving,” Bengzon says of the Department’s gameplan.

Despite difficult times brought about by the prevailing financial crisis, the Tourism Department is eyeing at a 3.5 percent growth this year. The audacity of the Tourism Department is in lieu of a firm belief on the concerted effort of its people under the auspices of Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano. Bengzon says this target is achievable with the intensive marketing efforts rolled out by their team such as travel fairs and exhibits in cooperation with the private sector on the back of possible advertising campaigns in particular areas. “We will still grow in spite of the difficulties in the industry.

Secretary Durano has come up with a market portfolio wherein we determine what the core markets are. These are the markets that provide us with huge numbers. Included are China, Japan, US and Korea so we have to maintain our presence in these countries. There

While France will always be a lovers’ paradise and Greece a metaphor for all things ethereal, the Philippines’ natural beauty against a backdrop of immensely rich cultural heritage will always have its own charm that is sure to captivate any foreign traveler.

For Filipinos who are yet to travel around the islands, Bengzon encourages his fellowmen to start experiencing Philippines. “For foreigners traveling around the Philippines, the experience will definitely be enjoyable. But if you happen to be a Filipino and you begin to explore your own country, the experience will go beyond leisure. When you see the Philippines in all its glory you will be able to say, ‘This is how beautiful my country is.’ At that moment you begin to wonder where have you been all these years, so you marvel at the sight once more then you become so proud being a Filipino,” says Bengzon.

14 FEATURE

The Philippines’

Foreign Invasion

BY JESSE EDEP

Beyond the obvious tourist attractions of surf, sand, shopping, culture and heritage, foreign nationals are flocking by the millions to the archipelago teeming with hospitable people with a whole load of other reasons. Education, medical tourism and retirement rank high on their agenda.

Koreans, the most noticeable In the Philippines, half of the foreign students come from East Asia, particularly from China, Korea and Taiwan, according to UNESCO or the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

“Studying in the Philippines helped me not only to improve my English skills but also to become more of a global citizen,” reasons Kwon Ka-Young, a university student from Korea who went to the Philippines last year to study English.

Aside from Koreans, an increasing number of Excellence and Centers of Development of Americans, Taiwanese, Chinese, and — hosts several international schools which other foreign nationals also pursue their are on American, British, German, Chinese, education in the country. Why? Because the French, and Japanese educational tracks.

Philippines can match other countries when it comes to providing quality education. As Furthermore, business and accounting the world’s third largest English-speaking schools in the Philippines conforms to nation, the Philippines provides huge the US’ Generally Accepted Accounting knowledge resources, up-to-date instruction, Principles and International Financial and a multicultural learning atmosphere Reporting Standards. The engineering with its 93.9 percent literacy rate. and marine schools, on the other hand, are included in the Asia-Pacific Economic The country — home to a number of ISO- Cooperation’s Engineer Registry and certified universities and over 250 higher International Maritime Organization white educational institutions identified as Centers list.

16 FEATURE include St. Luke’s Medical Center, Asian Hospital, Medical City, Makati Medical Center, Capitol Medical Center, Lung Center of the Philippines, Philippine Heart Center, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, Philippine Children’s Medical Center and East Avenue Medical Center.

Department of Health Undersecretary Jade del Mundo says top government hospitals in the provinces—particularly in the Central Luzon, Baguio, Cebu, Iloilo and Davao provinces—are also beginning to accommodate foreigners.

These hospitals are attractive to foreign patients because of lower costs on surgical procedures, in addition to being located near popular tourist locations in the Philippines. For example, hospitals in Bicol, Cebu and Davao have been offering surgical procedures such as coronary artery bypass graft at a cost of only US$10,000, about half of the typical cost in countries outside the Philippines.

A more extreme example would be a kidney transplant, which is available in Davao and Cebu hospitals at a cost of US$60,000. This same procedure could cost $140,000 in other countries.

Studies reveal that it is more affordable to study in the Philippines compared with other countries offering the same quality education. It is because a person can live a modest lifestyle by only spending US$350 to US$500 a month. Good examples of this are the English-as-a-second-language (ESL) schools in the Philippines which continue to be one of the best places to learn English, as far as the Korean student market is concerned.

Samaniego, marketing head of the DOT Team Korea, says the fact that seeing many English-speaking Filipinos further brings up their level of confidence in choosing the Philippines to study.

At present, the Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ace Durano says the Korean overseas learning sector accounts for about five million people. This includes mainly those who want to acquire skills that will help them participate in the global economy.

Next to Korea are the US, Japan, China, Australia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Canada, Singapore, the UK, Malaysia and Germany.

Last year, a total number of 2,944,135 foreigners came to the Philippines.

“Our close proximity to their home country and competitive package prices make the Philippines ESL a top choice among Korean students,” shares the Korea-based Tourism Attaché Maricon Ebron. Pam

Keeping up with the pace of growth of education tourism is medical tourism. It is a rapidly growing industry in the Philippines, with prominent hospitals in metropolitan Manila that are getting into the scene. These

Korea is currently the country’s top source of foreign arrivals. A total of 611,629 Korean nationals landed in the Philippines between January and December last year, making up 19.48 percent of over-all tourist traffic.

Competence, safety

On average, studies reveal, every sick person in the US spends at least US$1,000 in out-of-pocket expenses after obtaining treatment. Average medical insurance premiums have risen 87 percent since 2000. Average earnings, on the other hand, have only increased 20 percent.With healthcare costs in the US rising every year at a rapid rate, more and more Americans are looking to countries like the Philippines to have medical services performed.

Take, for instance, Haydee Camila, who is from California. She needed some dental work. The best quote she got from an accredited dentist would require her to pay US$570. With a little patience and a lot of due diligence, she mulled over the numbers and came to a decision to visit her folks in Manila and her family dentist, who would be charging her for the entire dental treatment a package cost of no more than PHP6,500 or US$132.

Julio Cabanero, Chief Executive Officer of Lyf Center Ultimate Solutions, cites the highly expensive medical treatment among industrialized countries that should stimulate investments in medical tourism here in the country. The Philippines, says

FEATURE 17 Cabanero, has proven to the world that it has the competence and can assure the safety of potential foreign patients availing of healthcare facilities and medical personnel.

It is forecasted that the global medical tourism industry will grow by US$188 billion in 2013. Cabanero says: “With our competence and related tourism development, the Philippines has no reason not to capture a good portion of this multibillion dollar market.”

Japan now has a 22 million elderly population, costing them US$36.5 billion in elderly care. Cabanero estimates that the Philippines can offer at least 50 percent less if it develops its medical tourism industry.

Medical tourism, which is touted as a revolution in healthcare sweeping Asia and some Latin American countries, is a burgeoning industry that captures the health-and-wellness dollar from developed countries.

The US marketing thrust of medical tourism to the Philippines is primarily zeroing in on the Filipino-American market to include would-be retirees and baby boomer professionals.

Attracting octogenarians en masse “With a growing number of baby boomers financially secure and health conscious at the same time, and the country’s finest wellness centers, we can undoubtedly expect a bigger market share of this specialized market segment,” says Durano.

“There are various opportunities to be tapped, like the leisure establishments in the country which are more accessible to the Asian market. Our wellness services are fast becoming recognized, and investments in properties for second homes are also a viable choice,” he adds.

Consumption by this segment, says DOT, is strong and growing. In fact, consumer spending by mature consumers in key Asian countries—Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, India and China—is projected to almost triple from US$228 billion in 2005 to US$616 billion in 2015.

Apart from health and wellness, the DOT says the country is likewise promoting top tourist destinations and leisure highlights such as golf and eco-tourism activities.

Investing in property, seen as an emerging

trend amongst the silver market, is also an important focus in the country’s participation. Information and options on staying in the Philippines are made available.

economic development and to contribute to foreign currency reserve, the PRA is slated to boost employment from which some four million Filipinos will benefit from.

A study conducted by Euromonitor International revealed that baby boomers in Asia are more financially affluent, more knowledgeable, and still in the workforce. nA recent National Survey of Senior Citizens reported that 63.1 percent of seniors aged 55 and above had their own source of income.

More than three-quarters of male senior citizens aged 55 and above had their own source of income.

PRA says it is confident that the program will bring about “reverse migration” and might even convince highly skilled workers and professionals to opt to stay in the Philippines rather than seek employment abroad. “We are now working on the different incentive schemes for marketers who enroll more retirees in the program, and for facilities that would attract more retirees to invest in their properties for the coming year,” says PRA on its website.

President Arroyo has declared the Philippine retirement industry as a key flagship program armed with the belief that the country will benefit a lot if the potential of the retirement industry can be harnessed.

For its part, the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) believes that the country has the best features in store for retirees: climate, safety, proximity to medical supplies, highly skilled and caring people, low-cost living, natural attractions, and desirable facilities. With its commitment to help the government accelerate socio-

A retiree, says PRA, can choose to invest their required deposit through the following means: purchase of a condominium unit; subscription of shares of stocks in a nontraded Philippine corporation; purchase of shares of stock in existing corporations registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and selected corporations traded in the Philippine Stock Exchange; long-term lease of a parcel of land or house and lot; construction of a residential unit on a leased parcel of land; and purchase of proprietary shares in golf clubs.

18 FEATURE

WB CARBON FINANCE PROGRAM:

The Windmills of Bangui Text and Photography by David Llorito

The World Bank’s carbon finance program provides clean electricity to poor communities and helps reduce emissions of harmful greenhouse gases.

It has also transformed renewable energy financing in the Philippines.

In Bangui Bay, Ilocos Norte the humming of the 40 meter-long rotor blades of wind turbines 70 meters up in the air blends with the murmur of the breeze and the rush of the waves up and down the sandy shore. Just a few hundred meters away, this symphony is imperceptible. But the presence of the wind farm resonates beyond its placid realm, creating an even bigger story: the emergence of the Philippine carbon market that may yet revolutionize renewable energy financing in the country.

Nobody in Southeast Asia has done it before.

Many financial and technical barriers have dampened the spirits of entrepreneurs.

But Neils Jacobsen, Danish engineer and environmentalist, who has managed several power projects in the Philippines since the early 1990s, was not daunted. It had long been his fervent dream to harness the clean earth-saving technology of wind power in the Philippines as his contribution to the fight against global warming. From where he came, carpenters, farmers, small entrepreneurs as well as big corporations set up turbines to supply clean power to the electricity grid, making Denmark the world’s leader in wind power technology. He thought wind power might just work in the Philippines as well.

lawyer and entrepreneur from Ilocos Norte, in an energy trade fair at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. Dumlao, who shared his passion for wind power and clean energy, invited him to visit Bangui Bay and, after some discussion, they decided to pool their resources to conduct feasibility and technical studies, set up wind measuring devices, and establish the NorthWind Power Development Corporation (NorthWind). Jacobsen became NorthWind’s president and Chief Executive Officer and Dumlao the Chairman of the Board and treasurer.

It was easy for Jacobsen to decide on Bangui Bay. In the early 90s, he got hold of studies indicating that the winds in the bay, located at the northern tip of Luzon facing the South China Sea, were strong enough to turn the wind turbines that produce electricity.

A dream fulfilled

Besides, the province of Ilocos Norte needed it badly. The Ilocos region is located at the end of the Philippine grid, and power, coming through the long transmission lines from various generation sources, was unreliable, of low voltage, and very expensive. The wind turbines would achieve two things: enhance both the quantity and reliability of the power supply and help curb emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) that cause global warming and climate change.

The project started to take shape in 2000 when Jacobsen met Ferdinand Dumlao, a

In June 2005, NorthWind inaugurated its 25 megawatt (MW) wind farm in Bangui

Bay comprising 15 turbines and a 60 kilometer transmission line to deliver power to the switchboard of the Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative (INEC) in Laoag City, costing approximately US$39 million. About 75 percent of the project cost was covered by credit from the Danish International Development Agency (Danida) and the balance from equity contributions by project sponsors.

“All the books I’ve read tell me that power projects like this usually take 6-7 years to get running. We made it operational in just five years,” says Jacobsen.

In June 2008, NorthWind added five more turbines, with additional financing from Danida, raising the wind farms capacity to 33 MW, which enabled the company to provide half the province’s power needs.

“By spending our own money at the initial stages of the project, we demonstrated to investors, financiers and stakeholders that we were serious and capable of seeing the project through,” explains Jacobsen.

WBs carbon financing program He attributes NorthWinds success to a combination of three factors: right timing (NorthWind started the project when

FEATURE 19 wind turbines were cheaper), the right financing (subsidized mixed credit from Danida), and support from the World Bank’s Prototype Carbon Fund (PCF), which enabled NorthWind to generate more resources through the sale of carbon emission reduction credits under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) of the Kyoto Protocol. CDM is the last cornerstone that made the project possible, he stresses.

The CDM allows industrialized countries and companies to fulfill some of their commitments to greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction by purchasing emission reduction credits in clean-and-green projects in developing countries. This is how it works: Investments in climate friendly projects displace GHG-emitting dirty technologies, resulting in measurable reductions in GHG and yielding Certified Emission Reductions (CERs) or carbon credits. Each unit of CER is equivalent to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions measured in tons. Getting carbon credits either through these investments or by buying CERs from others, helps developed countries achieve their targets under the Kyoto Protocol.

In order to make this happen, developed countries and companies established various carbon finance facilities, such as the Prototype Carbon Fund (PCF) and the Community Development Carbon Fund, among others, some of which are administered by the World Bank as a fund trustee, to purchase carbon credits while opening new sources of financing for sustainable development projects in developing countries.

The World Bank’s carbon finance program is a natural extension of its mission to fight poverty, explains Bert Hofman, WB country director. The Bank wants to ensure that poor countries can benefit from international efforts to combat climate change, including the emerging carbon market for GHG emission reductions.

Says Jacobsen – “If the World Bank did not come up with advance payment for the conduct of baseline and related studies as well as other documentation that enabled the project to qualify as a CDM activity, this wouldn’t have prospered.”

Economic impact Gone are the days of unreliable, low voltage electricity, says Fely Velasco, barangay captain of Baruyen, one of the barangays hosting the wind turbines in Bangui Bay. The wind farm also attracts bus loads of tourists during weekends and in summer, opening up business opportunities for

residents of Bangui and nearby communities.

Along the coastline from the town of Burgos up to Pagudpud, beach resorts and other tourism-related businesses have mushroomed.

Lots of tourists are coming to see the wind farm, especially during weekends. Many of them drop by to buy garlic and other things, says Grace Samson who sells garlic, one of Ilocos region’s major agricultural products, in front of her house along the way to the wind farm.

“I could hardly keep up with demand since we got these windmills,” adds Allan Gases, a Baruyen resident who sells basi, a traditional wine fermented from sugar cane juice.

“The wind farm has put Bangui Bay on the map,” says Rogelio Alupay of the technical staff of Bangui’s municipal planning and development office. “Our towns revenues shot up 150 percent because of the real taxes paid by NorthWind, rising property values, and increased business activity. Now, we have more resources for socially beneficial programs.”

Carbon market emerges According to Joe Tuyor, WB operations officer for environment in the Philippines, the project has concretely demonstrated how carbon trading works, and created incentives for industries to invest in climate-friendly technologies, catalyzing the emergence of the carbon market in the country.

When the World Bank introduced CDM in the Philippines in 2003 on the initiative of then Secretary Bebeth Gozun of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), many were asking how dirty or clean air could be traded, recalls Tuyor. Many were saying that only an actual project on the ground could provide concrete answers. NorthWind provided that concrete, on-the-ground example.

equivalent per annum of the registered projects in the Philippines is about one million metric tons,” says Mr. Tuyor.

The major buyers of carbon credits in the Philippines are the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Japan, Italy, and Spain. The sellers are mostly energy companies and industries. Globally, the biggest seller is China which captures about 70 percent of the global emission reductions.

“The government could be more facilitative by streamlining procedures and reducing paperwork,” says Mr. Tuyor, “so that more climate-friendly projects in the Philippines could benefit from the growing multibillion global market for GHG emission reductions.”

Tuyor says CDM is not only for the big players.

“Even local government units, communities, cooperatives and peoples organizations are now into the business. CDM is already being done in Laguna de Bay through the World Bank-funded Laguna de Bay Institutional Strengthening and Community Participation Project (LISCOP),” he says.

“Community composting, reforestation, agro-forestry, hog waste, municipal landfill and slaughter house wastewater treatment projects are either being proposed or implemented and emission reductions for these types of projects are being purchased by the World Bank-managed Community Development Carbon Fund and the Biocarbon Fund,” Tuyor adds. “Bundling these small-scale community projects would be the best way to achieve economies of scale and make the monitoring system more effective.”

The private sector, says Tuyor, is responding well to CDM. “Many in the private sector are talking to CDM brokers that have grown in numbers since the CDM was first introduced in the country. Those who are aware of the Bank’s carbon finance program are approaching us. CDM is a good CSR [corporate social responsibility] project which creates good publicity while it earns an additional income stream for projects, making them more bankable,” he says.

“Currently, there are 23 CDM projects registered with the CDM Board in the Philippines. Many of them concern the management of agricultural wastes or wastewater as well a renewable energy alternatives to fossil fuel. The total estimated reduction in carbon dioxide

Neils Jacobsen Engineer and environmentalist

20 DESIGN

Philippine design royalty

at Manila F.A.M.E. International April 2009 Design royalty takes center stage at Asia’s Best Design Destination – Manila F.A.M.E. (Furnishings and Apparel Manufacturers Exchange) International to be held from the 15th to the 18th April 2009, as close to 300 worldclass designers and manufacturers present their eco-inspired creations made of Philippine indigenous, sustainable materials.

project of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), an attached agency of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry. For 25 years, the show has been instrumental in the promotion and development of the home and fashion lifestyle industries for the export market.

Manila FAME is accredited by UFI, a Paris-based organization of leading trade show organizers and recognized by major international associations in the exhibitions industry. A number of exhibitors in the show have been recipients of Germany’s Red Dot Award, Japan’s Good Design Award, and the Unesco-AHPADA Seal of Excellence for Handicraft Products in Southeast Asia. They have also been featured in the International Design Yearbook.

In its 25-year history, the show has transformed small and medium-sized companies into flourishing industries that provide jobs to our people and drive the economy. Manila FAME International is not just your ordinary run-of-the-mill event, said CITEM Deputy Executive Director Thelma Dumpit-Murillo.

As Asia’s undisputed best design destination, Manila FAME participants and exhibitors pride themselves in being pioneers of using recyclable and ecofriendly materials such as scrap metals, wood shavings, egg shells, and even abandoned insect colonies in coming up with fresh, original, innovative designs in home pieces and fashion wearables even at a time when recycling was not yet in fashion.

Over the years, a number of “green-fluenced” companies have been joining Manila FAME to showcase product design innovation in gifts and houseware, furniture, fashion wearables and accessories, holiday décor, and health and wellness services in an effort to show that saving the environment is not just a fad.

Nature’s Legacy Eximport, Inc. manufactures fine home furnishings and garden accessories using specially patented stone casting manufacturing process.

Mind Masters, Inc. converts recycled paper and handmade paper from agricultural waste into works of art. SC Vizcarra, Inc. specializes in handbags made from sustainable materials like rattan and bunsal.

Locsin International creates masterful

crafts using indigenous raw materials such as rattan, seagrass, abaca, and handmade paper. Simon Crafts International Inc. sells eco-chic garden accessories out of assorted shells and other locally sourced sustainable materials. Binnadang Ethnic Handicraft creates eco-furniture made of recycled paper. Kilus Foundation manufactures posh bags from recycled tetra pack materials.

QCD Ventures Corporation uses recycled glass and tin and turned them into eco-art home accents. Papelan Paper Products makes paper products out of recycled capiz and newspapers. CSM Company manufactures fine bone china giftware and art décor made of scraps of animal bones “We believe that designing an eco-friendly product starts with an understanding of your environment first. We recognize that sustainable and renewable resources are around us,” said Manila FAME exhibitor Pete Delantar of Nature’s Legacy. Their company manufactures artistic and functional home pieces and various outdoor accessories. They also went beyond preaudit certification for Life Cycle Analysis, Cradle to Cradle, SA 800, and obtained the coveted Green Seal.

Manila FAME International is a flagship

It has become the incubator for budding entrepreneurs building relationships with buyers and suppliers as well as for product development and innovation – one great example of which is Movement 8, the Philippine consortium of cutting-edge Filipino designers, one homegrown idea that has become a huge marketing success globally.

“We have been coming to Manila FAME for 18 years and when you look at what’s available now, we’re constantly surprised with how natural materials like fiber and coconut wood can be transformed into other products,” said Barbara Hermon of Hermon & Hermon, Australia.

“The best thing about Manila F.A.M.E. is the artworks and the designers with very high creativity,” said Michael Frankenhauser, a regular buyer attending the trade fair for the last 15 years. “It was exciting to see recycled products using soda bottles and newspapers. The show has been using a lot of different products I have not seen elsewhere,” added Kim Chaumont, president of Selections by Chaumont in the United States.

Every edition, close to 3,000 foreign buyers visit Manila FAME including brands such as Armani Casa, Pottery Barn, WilliamsSonoma, Robinsons, Harrods, and Papaya to cite a few. For more information visit www.manilafame.com.

22 KABUHAYAN ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Echostore:

Promoting Sustainable Lifestyle In this Kabuhayan feature, three Filipinas share the story behind their pursuit of fulfilment outside their successful careers in their respective profession. The elusive search is not so much to better themselves but to better the existence of the people whose lives they touch.

BY: BERNADETTE REYES

“It began with the power of three women with three unique skills and with one vision - of being able to create and help advocate for a sustainable lifestyle,” says Jeannie Javelosa of her partnership with Reena Francisco and Chit Juan in putting up the social enterprise which they now call the Echostore.

One time, while all three of them were having their usual conversations over dinner they thought of putting up a business that would promote eco-friendly products made by communities with livelihood programs. Originally, they thought of an online business since they were all caught up with their respective careers that managing an actual store might not be practical. But before they wrapped up dinner they all concurred that a store where customers can touch, smell and see the products up close and personal was

In less than six weeks, what used to be the bare walls of the coffee shop Kape Isla in Serendra Piazza in Taguig, has been filled with shelves after shelves painstakingly lined up with products that now makes up the social enterprise Echostore.

to meet rigid criteria before it can make its way to the store. All products should be eco-friendly, environment-friendly and they help advocate a sustainable lifestyle. “It has to be natural and/or organic therefore environmentally friendly. It has to be made if possible by communities. We are looking for group that never really had the chance to show their products in a mainstream mall because they don’t know how to do it and they don’t have money to pay for ads.

We want to make sure people behind it are fair trade,” she explains.

Since the store opened its doors for business in September last year, the shelves have been filled with over a thousand products supplied by more than 30 groups coming from all over the country. Reena says that while others might think filling up the empty space with products seems too easy a task, she reveals every product has

But even when perfected, the supply of the products can get in the way of business.

Some of the products are affected by the seasonality of raw materials such as fruits and vegetables others are delayed due to the length of time necessary to harvest certain products as in the case of brown rice.

the better choice. “I suggested why don’t we convert one side of the wall of Kape Isla and see how we can create a small store out of that space. Besides the coffee shop can make use of the additional revenue to pay for rent,” Chit recalls saying that night.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP KABUHAYAN 23

Juggling their schedule could likewise be challenging at times especially because they are preoccupied with lots of other things outside running the store. Jeannie is a writer-artist-curator and yoga instructor, Reena does consultancy for restaurant setups and has already assisted in the founding of over 70 cafes in the Philippines and overseas, while Chit holds key positions in various organizations as co-chairperson of the Philippine Coffee Board, board of trustee of Peace & Equity Foundation and also sits in the board of Gifts & Graces Fair Trade Foundation - but they all managed to circumvent their schedule and find time for Echostore. “All of us are doing this part-time. All of us our caught up doing some other things but what keeps us going is our passion for sharing our talents and abilities,” says Reena.

“We know our competencies. I don’t try to design simply because that’s not my comfort zone,” says Chit. But in areas where they share common interests, they see to it that they lend out a helping hand.

“I support Chit for marketing and Chit also supports me with communications,” Jeannie adds.

Yet even with all the hard work they put in to the business, they confess they are not in this for profit. The gratification they get for helping people towards sustainability is far more rewarding than any fat cheque can give. “We are just paying it forward.

It’s time we share out individual skills. I think we are at a level in our lives when we have certain professional experiences in our field that we can now share with other people,” says Jeannie. While the three may possess different skills, they share the same vision to help the community towards sustainable living.

Echostore has tapped a community of mothers in the area to weave bags that are sold in the store. “They may not have business background but they have skills and talents,” Jeannie explains.

Likewise, Echostore gives people behind bars something worthwhile to do while they wait for their parole. “The women at the correctional are happy to make some of our products. They also make us happy because even in our own little ways we know we are able to give them some fighting chance,” Reena explains.

The idea they say is to build the whole community around one step at a time.

Their alliance seems to work for the business because not only are they making headway in the market and helping better the lives of people, they have also secured a grant that will assist Echostore as it moves forward. Last year, they submitted an entry to the 1st Business Plan Competition of the Philippine Business in Development (BiD) Challenge, an international online contest for developing countries and was one of the eight winners. Prizes include

PHP100,000 grant as capital for business expansion and one year free web service e-hosting gateway. They plan to use the money to expand the distribution of Echostore products through gondolas and stalls in airports and duty free Shops.

For now they are focused on providing more lectures and seminars to educate more communities towards developing sustainable livelihood programs. “The game plan with BiD is that we should grow 30 percent every year so I have to make little detailed plan on how to roll our vision for Echostore. BiD will be monitoring our progress from this year until 2012 through our annual reports,” Chit explains.

While a 30 percent annual growth seems easier said than done for a nascent business such as Echostore, the group say it is achievable. “We want to one day have a centre when you can buy fresh produce and at the same time retail dry goods,” say Reena. “More than that, I’m looking to that day when the only word that comes to mind when people talk about sustainable lifestyle is Echostore,” adds Jeannie albeit difficult she admits. “Not that we want to be the only one, no. But we want to be the first. We can mentor everybody else,” Chit summarizes. We have started a change in lifestyle, a small step in bridging the world but we hope this step, however small would eventually change the world,” says Reena.

24 KABUHAYAN MONEY

Not About the Numbers BY: FRANCISCO COLAYCO

I mostly talk about how you can increase your income by setting your financial goals, investing, going into business, and other similar activities.

Let me share a story that reinforces the title of this article. It is really your attitude that will make the difference!

There is a story from The Simple Truths of Service by Ken Blanchard and Barbara Glanz, famous American authors about a simple cab driver named Harvey. He doubled his income from the previous year and in the third year even quadrupled it. He did this by doing the same job that he had been doing for many years. He just changed his attitude completely after hearing Wayne Dyer on radio saying “Stop complaining! Differentiate yourself from your competition. Don’t be a duck. Be an eagle. Ducks quack and complain. Eagles soar above the crowd.”

Harvey said that he used to be like most cab drivers, a duck always quacking and complaining. He decided to change his attitude and looked at the other cabs and their drivers. The cabs were dirty, the drivers were unfriendly and the customers were unhappy. So he made a few changes at a time and when the customers responded well, he did some more.

Little by little, some of the changes he made were: 1) He kept his cab spotlessly clean.

2) He became extra friendly, greeting his passenger and telling them that he wanted to bring them to his destination in the quickest, safest and cheapest way. 3) He asked them if they wanted to listen to any particular radio station. 4) He even had drinks available for them. 5) He offered them something to read. 6) He asked if they wanted to talk or just to be left with their own thoughts.

After a while, Harvey’s customers called him for appointments and if he is busy, he asks a reliable cab driver friend to pick up the customer for a commission.

It is so easy to immediately say that this story is only possible in America. But even within America, the author said that he told the story of Harvey to at least 50 cab drivers and yet only 2 of them took the idea and developed it themselves. The others

just thought up of all the reasons why they couldn’t improve anything. This just goes to show that it is not the kind of job or the place that affects your results. It is the attitude of the person.

This is the same attitude that is needed by everyone who wants to change their lifestyle and save. So many write me that they need to earn more money or they want to invest but they don’t have the money. They want me to tell them step-by-step what to do. Nobody can do that. Each person has to stop complaining, find what it is in his life that he can improve on and work on it.

Financial Literacy Perhaps the reason why there is so much complaining and less action is the lack of financial literacy. While mostly everyone is driven by the desire to earn money, how

MONEY KABUHAYAN 25 to keep and manage money?» People do not seriously understand why they should save and what they should do.

In informal surveys I have made during talks and seminars, I am amazed at how few have a clear understanding of what wealth means (i.e. when is one wealthy?).

Less than ten percent have an idea of how much money or earning assets they should have by the time they want to or have to stop working. Very few have clear personal goals at specific future dates.

This lack of goals and plans are in any income class. There are poor people who will do anything to get themselves out of poverty. Some succeed and some don’t.

Sadly, there are poor people who just accept their fate and cannot see how they can get out of it. On the other hand, there are rich people who are driven to make sure they do not have to downgrade their lifestyle in the future. There are also rich people who sadly have the mistaken notion that their wealth will always be available forever. They wake up one day to sadly learn that everything is gone. These are, to me, the sorriest lot. They could have shared so much to so many.

There is stage that anyone, rich or poor, can achieve where one is happy because he considers himself wealthy. One can only reach this balance with the right attitude similar to Harvey’s.

But even with the right attitude, one still needs to have some skills to move in the right direction. One of these skills is Financial Literacy. In simple terms, Financial Literacy is knowing how to keep what you earn and how to do more with what you keep.

But before anything else, one must understand, know and accept that wealth does not necessarily mean having millions and millions of pesos. What is prosperity for one may not necessarily be wealth for another. Lifestyle defines this for each person. The rich and famous need to spend so much more to maintain their lifestyle. Many envy them because of their seeming “fairy-tale” lives but are they really to be envied? It is so ironic that so many rich people are deep in debt and would give anything to live a simple life.

In reality, having money, even lots of money, is no assurance that one is automatically wealthy and can therefore afford to stop working for money. Wealth and money

means nothing unless it is matched with time and expenses.

Are you wealthy if you had PHP 1 Million in your pocket? What about PHP 2 Million, PHP 10 Million or PHP 100 Million? The answer lies in your expense profile. If your living expenses are very high because of your lifestyle, or perhaps because you have so much debt, then maybe even if you had PhP 100 Million, you would still be financially short.

So if you had cash and other financial assets that can support your lifestyle for say ten years, would you consider yourself wealthy?

Wealth or kayamanan has to be also based on how much time you have left in this world. If you are in retirement and have ten years to go, then you are wealthy enough if you had financial assets good to support your lifestyle for ten years. But if you only have resources good for five years, then you are not wealthy enough. In this case, you still have to grow your financial

assets or lower your lifestyle to match your financial capability.

In effect, people who are happy to live simple lives are the wealthiest of all. Again, note that it is the attitude and mindset that defines the situation. In the final analysis, wealth is nothing more than having the money to fund your particular needs at any given time. Being wealthy simply means having sustained financial resources to support your chosen lifestyle even without working. It is a situation where one is ready for emergencies and for the inevitable retirement stage.

With the right attitude and preparation, wealth should be within reach of every income earner. One only needs to develop the skills. This is what I try to impart in my books, articles and seminars.

In partnership with the SM Supermalls, Colayco Foundation is conducting free seminars. These started in March 2009 and will continue on this year. Encourage your relatives and friends to take advantage of this. Check www.colaycofoundation.com for details and schedules.

26 SUCCESSFUL PINOY SPIRITUALITY Every month best-selling author, radio and TV personality, motivational speaker and TOYM awardee Bro. Bo Sanchez shares with us words of wisdom on enriching our spiritual lives.

Getting Rich During a Recession

BY: BO SANCHEZ

I love talking to Auntie Eunice.

She’s a petite, 4 foot 11 inches, pretty Cebuano lady who lives in California. She loves to laugh, tell stories, and always treats me to a spicy Indian lunch every time we meet. Even if she doesn’t like Indian food!

But she knows I do, so that’s where she takes me.

She’s also a very successful woman. Auntie Eunice sells houses for a living. In her circles, they call her a “Million-Dollar” producer. But more than all these, I just love talking with Auntie Eunice because of her fantastic positive energy. She rubs it on me and I feel wonderful.

But early this year, the recession hit the world like a crashing meteor. So when I visited her last September, I feared the worst. I knew there were a million foreclosures all over the United States, and a million more houses soon to be foreclosed. People were losing their homes. Who in his right mind would buy houses now?

When I went around the West and East Coast, my fears were proven right. I met a number of real estate agents. Most of them told me, “I haven’t sold anything for months.” Some of them were applying for new jobs just to survive.

So when I met Auntie Eunice, I was cautious about asking about her business.

But after our little chitchat, catching up on family and stuff, I finally asked her, “How’s business, Auntie?”

Her reply floored me. She said, “Bo, I’m selling more houses now than ever before!”

My jaw dropped. I couldn’t believe my ears.

She continued, “In fact, we’re expanding. I now have 20 agents working under me. It’s a great business out there.”

I blinked hard. Was she from another planet? I wanted to ask, “Auntie Eunice, don’t you read the newspapers? Don’t you know there’s a recession out there? You shouldn’t be selling houses. You should be like everyone else, suffering and depressed, crying inside their homes watching soap operas!”

is all about attitude. Auntie Eunice is that proof, standing 4’11 inches tall, right in front of me. She doesn’t care if there’s a recession in the world. Because in the world of Eunice, there’s no such thing.

She’s declared it: “I’m not going to join the recession.”

Oh, let me mention two other great things about her: She loves people. And she loves God. “Success is all about relationships,” she told me. “People I’ve sold houses to years ago are buying again, or they refer me to others who need new homes. We’re all friends.”

I realized that more than a Real Estate Expert, Auntie Eunice is a People Expert.

Don’t Join the Recession!

Do you want to succeed despite what’s happening around you? You don’t have to join the recession.

But Auntie Eunice is not like everyone else.

She Doesn’t Read the Newspapers!

I learned that she doesn’t even read the newspapers. “Why should I?” she said, “It’s filled with all these negative news.” She says she’d rather be on the streets, selling her houses to wonderful people who need wonderful homes.

That day, I met a living proof that success

Auntie Eunice reminds me that success is not about external circumstances, but about three important components: (1) a powerful mindset, (2) practical wisdom, and (3) inner character. Develop these three things, and you will succeed no matter what chaos is happening around you.

To receive a mountain load of FREE spiritual nourishment, join www.KerygmaFamily. com now!

28 SUCCESFUL PINOY SUCCESS PRINCIPLES

Crisis: Why Cry Sis?

Succeeding in these Trying Times BY: JEFFREY ‘XIMO’ RAMOS

Almost everyday I receive e-mails and text messages on the realities of this current economic crisis. May nawalan ng trabaho; nangangambang mawalan ng trabaho; may mga naghahanap ng trabaho; loans na babayaran; pamilyang naiwanan at pangarap na naglaho.

Pero mayron rin namang nag she-share ng kanilang matagumpay na karanasan: may mga nakakuha ng mas magandang trabaho; may mga na-hire sa kanilang pinag-applyan (take note that although companies are cautious in hiring, they will still hire as the need arises so as to keep the wheels of commerce turning); may mga nakapag bukas ng negosyo, naka balik sa kanilang minimithing interest at may “nalinawan” sa kanilang layunin sa buhay.

Ikaw sis and bro, kumusta ka naman sa crisis na ito?

Cry it out “Hayaan ninyong itulak kayo ng inyong dagok sa buhay tungo sa pagyaman at tagumpay.”

- Marlo Sanchez Author, Business Lecturer, Host of “Bisnespinoy”

Sige lang sis, iiyak mo…ok lang bro ilabas mo! Denial will not help you cure what is currently happening. It will just prolong your agony. Talaga namang nakaka-frustrate ang mawalan ng trabaho at makitang mag laho ang pangarap na naumpisahan mo.

Crying is one way of getting the burden out of your system. Successful men and women cried out. So, huwag kang mahiya.

Huwag mo nang i-deny. Ganito kasi iyan - when you cry, your “emotionial bank’’ decreases. When your “emotional bank” is full, it clouds your judgment and most of the time impairs you to think. The secret is to have it balanced. Thus, when you cry-out

it calms you down, buying you time to think and creating space for your other concerns in life. I should know…I lost my job before!

I was banned to work in Dubai for one whole year. I was away from my wife, my savings were gone and dreams shattered. I cried alone, cried to my friends and cried out to God and guess what – it worked!

Write down what happened and what you want to happen next Kaya gulong-gulo ang iyong isipan ay dahil sabog-sabog ang mga concerns mo sa kalawakan. That is normal.

What you can do is to write these frustrations and opposite of it the planned solutions. Kailan ka nawalan ng trabaho – kailan mo gustong magka-trabaho, same position ba? O pagkakataon mo ng mag-

SUCCESS PRINCIPLES SUCCESFUL PINOY 29

tawagan? Baka may dapat ka sa sariling baguhin? Saan makakahanap ng trabaho.

Paano na ang loan mo? May alam ka bang pagkakakitaang negosyo?

As you write all the concerns that bother you, you will feel that you are releasing it from your brain. Putting it in paper and removing it from your head will help organize your concerns and give you a sense of peace. Maintaining this record will surprise you because you will see solutions coming out gradualy- one by one.

Assess your resources Check your wallet, your savings, hanggang kailan ito aabot? Ano ang talent mo or skills na puwede mong magamit to find the job you have always wanted or the business you have interest in? Check your contacts and networks - ano ang puwede nilang maicontribute sa sitwasyon mo?

Cash is powerful kapag ganitong mga panahon. So, save as much as you can and collect kung mayruon kang pautang.

And do the same. Magbayad ka sa iyong pinagkakautangan. Ask to a restructure of your debt kung di mo kaya mabayaran ngunit magbayad kahit paunti- unti lamang.

This will to your creditors that you are here to fulfill your obligations and so you can still maintain good credit standing. (Alam mo naman na ito ang naging dahilan kung bakit nagkaruon nitong crisis: non payment of debts in a large scale.)

Kung ano ang meron ka ngayon, alamin.

Kapag nalaman mo ito, alam mo na rin kung ano ang kulang mo. Now, use what you have to get what you do not have.

FORMULA: E+R = O The crisis came without any notice. It just happened. So, what do you do?

Mainis! Magmukmok!

No. Tandaan mo, ang RESPONSE mo ang magsasabi kung ano ang magiging resulta ng ano mang sitwasyon o EVENT na iyong hinaharap ngayon. The OUTCOME of that event will depend on your RESPONSE. Kaya sa crisis na ito, bagamat di mo kayang pahintuin, kaya mo naman i-controll and iyong response. Yes. You can control the outcome of an (uncontrolled) event that is happening to you.

Nawalan ka ng trabaho: Respond by looking for a job. May utang na maiiwan: Respond by looking for a business to get additional income.

Do a lifestyle check Use this time to reflect. Remember the eight aspects of success and monitor

yourself. Gamitin ito na pagkakataon. Pansinin mo, mas nagiging appreciative ka sa mga bagay na meron ka ngayon, tama?

Yung work mo na pa petiks petiks ka, ngayon love na love mo na. Baka dapat talagang mag sipag ka at ibigay ang galing mo. Tama na siguro yung pag aabuso mo sa mabait na kumpanyang naging maluwag sa iyo. Baka naman you are taking your health for granted dahil dati O.T. ka ng O.T. at ipon ka ng ipon pero wala ka ng panahon sa iyong pamilya at sa iyong sarili.

When I experienced one year without work, I looked at my life style. I realized that I was wasting my time impressing people who do not really care; I was working with less passion; I was pushing myself to become successful with wrong motivations and worst I wanted to be served and not to serve with the expectation that at the end of the day, people consider me great.

I considered that crisis in my life as a wake up call. I can only thank God now for giving me the “gift of time.” Only did I understood my purpose and realized that we are created equal and free; and it is our passion that fires us in everything that we do. And in order for us to be really great, we need to serve instead of just being served!

Join a support group Your family can support you, so can your friends. But there are also support groups who not only experienced the same situation that you are in right now and had the same challenges, but who have triumphed over it. So iba ito sa pamilya mo at kaibigan mo.

Join this support group. They will listen and interact with you and strengthen you.

You may log in to www.successfulpinoyako. com – this is a support group for Pinoys who want to be motivated towards success. We can empower one another and share our ideas and success stories to strengthen, support and fulfill each others dreams.

Say a prayer And lastl but certainly not the least (in fact, this should be done at the start of any ones crisis in life) is to say a powerful prayer to God. Karaniwang pagkakamali ito. Ang ginagawa ay uubusin muna ang lakas. Gagawa ng paraan. Kapag na solve “thanks to me” At kapag di maiayos ang gusot, saka magdarasal at kapag hindi na-solve, isisisi sa Itaas. Tama naman na ikaw ay gumalaw.

Pero pansinin mo, grabe ang pagod no?

Just try this sis and bro. Before you look for any solution on your own - pray, ask for guidance. Believe that it will happen and then, act with certainty. You will be surprised that you can ride through the storm, smoothly, and before you know it you would have surpassed the crisis, bro and sis.

30 REAL ESTATE

A Princely Summer Retreat South of the Metro Belle Corporation, developer of the country’s premier destination for luxury living—the Tagaytay Highlands, recently announced its plans to develop a princely summer retreat within the Tagaytay Highlands complex—Katsura*.

Inspired by the great Katsura Palace of Kyoto, the sixth residential community of the Lakeside Fairways development, Katsura is located beside the Tagaytay Midlands golf course in Talisay, Batangas.

It is designed to be a home of simplicity and exclusivity, carefully cultivated and stretched across approximately 14 hectares of gently rolling terrain. When completed, Katsura is estimated to have a total of 241 lots, with sizes ranging from 250 to 461 square meters.

Katsura will pay tribute to the simple way of life and will offer a lay of rustic and elegant simplicity.

The architects of Katsura envision a community of traditional and contemporary Japanese homes with steep angled roofs that mimic the beautiful mountain on its backdrop.

Prices start from PHP12,888.00 per sqm plus 12% VAT. Created by nature, perfected by inspiration.

Katsura – Tagaytay Highlands is a project of Belle Corporation. For inquiries, call +632 687 2885, + 63918 899 2698, +6346 483 0824 or visit www. tagaytayhighlands.com

Megaworld Unveils The Venice

Contemporary Lifestyle at Tribeca

Property giant Megaworld Corporation recently unveiled its most beautiful and romantic project to date – The Venice Luxury Residences in McKinley Hill, Fort Bonifacio designed by Italian architectural firm Paolo Marioni Architetto, inspired by the architecture, waterways and romanticism of the legendary Italian city.

Tribeca is a 9.7 hectare master planned modern-themed residential condominium community designed to meet the demand of the contemporary lifestyle. Conveniently located just off the Sucat Exit along East Service Road, South Luzon Expressway, Tribeca Private Residences features prime location which allows easy commuting to and fro Makati and Bonifacio Global City (15 minutes) and Alabang CBD (10 minutes). It is within close proximity to lifestyle and commercial districts as well as the international and domestic airports.

“We have carefully designed and planned a Venetian-style luxury residential condominium with avant garde amenities that bring back Old World romanticism to be experienced in these modern times,” stated Megaworld International Managing Director, Marivic Acosta The project will feature seven residential towers. As seen from the sky, each building resembles a fèrro – the gondola’s uniquely shaped iron head. Tones of chrome yellow and bright orange perfectly distinguish The Venice’s towers in the 50-hectare McKinley Hill township development.

More than 20 different amenities are planned for the daily enjoyment of residents – from pools, walking courts, gardens, fitness stations, badminton and tennis courts to spas. The Venice’s seven towers are perfectly integrated with the McKinley Hill Town Center’s Venetian Mall, so residents have more choices to play and while away the time. They can take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal, climb the St. Mark’s Tower to enjoy the view, or shop to their hearts’ content at the promenade, or be entertained by stand-up acts and singers at the Piazza Grande.

For more information contact: UAE: Jovy Tuano - +97150 443 2656 / +9712 443 2656 email: philippineproperties@eim.ae KUWAIT: Ely Bernabe: +9656 623 9812 or 9655 544 6878, Lito Flores: +9659 986 0121, Cora Manlutac: +9656 660 0529, Madame Fatma Al Jumah: +9652 245 2508, OMAN: Ronaldo Legaspi: +9689 524 7187, email - RLegaspi@rca.gov.om MANILA: Geevee Ventanilla of Megaworld International +632 889 9114 or +632 889 9115, fax +632 889 7393, email global@megaworldcorp. com or visit www.megaworldinternational.com

The development’s impeccable master plan seamlessly integrates five residential condominium clusters - Chelsea, Bryant, Hamilton, Grammercy, and Liberty.

Tribeca also has recreational facilities and actives spaces which include an Aqua Park with a 1,800 sqm pool area with massage cabbanas, slides, bubblers, a pool bar and Jacuzzi; clubhouse and a 3 hectare Central Park with open spaces with ponds and lawns and active spaces with children’s play area, fitness circuits, bicycle and jogging paths, basketball court, traverse wall, as well as barbecue and social pavilions.

The complex also has Wi-Fi zones in key actives spaces such as the main pool, the clubhouse and central park. Tribeca’s facilities are designed to help residents discover the satisfaction of enjoying work’s rewards while finding the perfect balance of cosmopolitan living essentials.

For inquiries on Tribeca, contact Noli Alleje at +632 836 5106, or +63918 926 7993.

ADVERTORIAL 31

Contact: Agnes Aquino-Briggs, Philippine Property Connection, Sales & Marketing Director Abu Dhabi Cell - +971 50 666 5349, Abu Dhabi Landline: +971 2 558 4662 Email: asb@thepropertyroadshow.com and agnes@megagroupco.com Chat online: agnes_briggs@yahoo.com or check the website www.philippinepropertyconnection.com

32 ADVERTORIAL

Philippine Realty TV

Airs its 3rd Season

PRTV’s executive producer and director John Aguilar reveals that it wasn’t easy to penetrate the industry. “We hardly knew the big players, nor did we have the clout, especially with the real estate organizations,” he shares.

What PRTV did have, was a solid company that is one of the best producers of independent TV content in the country. This, coupled with the company’s strong belief that clients and viewing public deserve nothing but the best viewing experience, drove the team to produce unforgettable cinematic shots of various real estate projects as well as incredibly funny skits played by hosts Gabe Mercado and Angel Jacob.

People liked what they saw. And the response, especially among overseas Filipinos, was very encouraging. PRTV’s client developers shared that overseas Filipinos who got to watch the segments of certain projects became very interested with the projects. “We’ve had good feedback from developers whose clients in Europe and the Middle East got to watch the segments, it created very good buzz for the projects during their roadshows,” he enthuses.

When people first got wind of “the country’s first real estate lifestyle TV show for local and global Filipinos,” not a few were wondering if it would really push through. There was always a rumor or two about a real estate TV show being in different stages of planning or production, but until April of 2008, there was nothing. That month, Philippine Realty TV (PRTV) officially launched its maiden episode on national and international TV. The rest, as they say, is history.

Today, a year later, PRTV stands as the only TV show that has successfully captured not just the business, but the imagination of people who are directly or indirectly involved in the real estate sector.

The show has gone on to feature a multitude of properties across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao for both big and small developers alike, allowing both local and overseas Filipinos the opportunity to see the latest real estate projects being offered in the market.

The show however, isn’t just about featuring real estate projects.

Launched on the show’s second season, the segment Project: First Home chronicles the step-by-step process of building your first house, told from the perspective of first-time homebuilder John Aguilar and the two hosts. The show has partnered with reputable names in the industry such as architectural firm Palafox Associates, BPI Family Savings Bank’s Build Your Dream Housing Loan, HCG, Lazuli Bath Boutique, Bradnams Windows and Doors, Mariwasa Tiles, and project management firm E-Construct. The result is a segment that teaches first-time homebuilders everything from buying your lot and securing the permits, to choosing the best tiles and fixtures for your house.

The weekly show’s third season begins this May, with an initial telecast Sundays at 7:30 p.m., with replays every Saturday at 11 a.m. on ANC (Sky/Home Cable Ch. 27). PRTV is produced by StreetPark Productions, Inc. Tel. 9105778/91, M:0917-8140875. Visit www.

PhilippineRealty.tv for more details.

34 ILLUMINATI

Honoring the

White Mangyan BY: KRIP YUSON

Last March 26, a reception was held to launch the Mangyan Heritage Week at the Ayala Museum. It was co-hosted by the Mangyan Heritage Center and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, His Excellency Robert G. Brinks. The event also honored the contributions to Philippine culture and heritage by Dutch anthropologist Antoon Postma, a former S.V.D. missionary who came 50 years ago and has since lived among the Hanunoo Mangyans of Mindoro. He has long resigned from his ministry and has married into the tribe. With his native wife Marta, he has raised three children.

ILLUMINATI 35 Other authoritative books have succeeded in opening the eyes of the rest of the country, and the world, to the vibrant culture of the Mangyans. For one, they are known to possess a syllabary and written script that the Spanish colonizers had documented as the oldest in the archipelago In particular, Postma rediscovered the Mangyans’ distinctive indigenous verse known as ambahan — which features seven-syllable lines expressing thoughts and emotions about the environment and loved ones. Using the pre-Hispanic Mangyan syllabary, these were usually carved on the barks of trees or inscribed on bamboo strips serving as a counterpart for paper.

Postma translated into English what he described as poetic expressions, while hewing to the strict form with the sevensyllable rhythm, and rendering these as close as possible to the original. In 1972, through Arnoldus Press, he published a collection of these translated poems as Treasure of a Minority: The Ambahan.

Here’s one of the verses as translated by Postma, who is called “Bapa” or “Uncle” by the Hanunoo: “What I like to say to you,/ an expression of my thoughts, / your condition is not bad, / you, a man from the lowlands! / Because when you are from there, / all your house beams are the best/ and the flooring squarecut wood. / But we, from the mountain slopes, / because we are living here / our ways are not like yours / The floor: flattened bamboo strips. / The roof: made of kogon grass, / And the ties are made of vines. / But this I have still to add: / please, don’t forget that we live/ at the water source, high up,/ where the birds are used to drink,/ a poor place and hard to stay!”

In 1990, the indefatigable scholar was also the first to translate the Laguna Copperplate Inscription (circa 900 A.D.). He has presented this in international conferences as a work-in-progress, since he continues to render new editions.

7, an-hour-long video documentary on Antoon, his remarkable family, and the tribe they live with. It was titled Ang Alamat ng Puting Mangyan (The Myth of the White Mangyan).

Now a septuagenarian, Bapa Antoon still gives lectures on the Mangyan heritage at many educational institutions here and abroad. His dedication to sharing the Hanunoo script and poetry outside Mindoro has ensured their preservation.

The president of the Mangyan Heritage Center, Lolita Delgado Fansler, calls Antoon Postma a national treasure. “Not only has his work of translating and preserving these ambahan increased our knowledge and appreciation of our culture and heritage,” she says, “but it is due to his efforts that these ambahan will be passed on to the generations that are sure to follow.”

What Antoon Postma continues to apply as his life work reminds us of similar efforts conducted by foreigners who fell in love with our country and decided to stay, some until their last days, while pursuing a scholarly and/or cultural vocation that has benefited all Filipinos.

Apart from some distinguished Spanish friars who contributed immensely to Philippine architecture, music, arts, culture and historical documentation, many other such white men came during the 20th century who provided inspiration and tutelage and held up mirrors by which the Filipino could see deeper within himself.

To cite a few, there were the American zoologist Dean C. Worcester, who authored books on the Philippines and founded the Philippine General Hospital or PGH; William Henry Scott who came from his earlier ministry in China to settle in Sagada in Mountain Province, where he mapped out the intricacies of local history; and the French-American missionary Dr. Albert Faurot, who also came from China and built and played on a harpsichord, as well as a grand piano, while mentoring generations of students in music upon joining Silliman University in Dumaguete City.

Besides various other books on Hanunoo Mangyan poetry and culture, Antoon Postma has also helped edit and publish the oldest Spanish-Tagalog dictionary, as a recipient of a funding grant from the Toyota Foundation.

There are many others who have arrived at our shores and saw the need to do well by us. There must be something in our islands and our people that call for such generosity of spirit.

In January 2008, the outstanding video journalists Howie Severino and Egay Navarro produced and aired, over GMA-

Another Hanunoo Mangyan poem goes, as translated by Antoon Postma:

“At this hour of the dark night/ we are still together now/ on the woven sleeping-mat./ But when the sun will get up/ and the stars will be detached,/ our bond might break up too./ When we’ll ever meet again,/ it is not with mortal eyes,/ But the eye-sight of the soul.”

Photography: Dr. Marlon Pecjo with Milo Sogueco, assisted by Loubert Estrada Styling : Rey Santos Jr. • Make-Up: Noel Flores • Hair: Dimple Callada • Model: Charmagne de Guzman • Fashion by: Romyda Keth (available at Ambre, Ground Floor, Vernida 1 Condominium, 120 Amorsolo St.,Legazpi Village, Makati, Philippines - +632 892 1575 and 893 1554) Special thanks to Ry Farinas.

Just at the outskirts of the historic city of Laoag, after a trek through a long dusty road, is one of the most surreal of Philippine landscapes – La Paz, the Desert of the North. With one side providing a spectacular panoramic view of the cool azure waters of the South China Sea and the other side stretching to inland Ilocos Norte, the 85 sqm wide geological monument of undulating sand dunes and beach is a serene otherworldly spot quite unique to the archipelago.

Here, the barren earth meets the endless blue sky and the calm waters in one dramatic moment of silence - providing the perfect backdrop to smoldering frocks with nomadic inclinations.

To the

FASHION 37

Desert of the North

38 FASHION

FASHION 39

Previous Spread: ‘Cassandra’ cotton dress with appliquéd patches. Opposite page:‘Sara’ pink jersey dress with mousseline appliqué. This page: ‘Suzy’ hand beaded Chinese crepe dress.

FASHION 41 ‘Petunia’ organza dress.

42 FASHION

FASHION 43

This page:‘Carmella’ V-neck cotton dress with floral cut-out appliqué.

Opposite page:‘Blossom’ organza dress with floral embroidery.

58 FASHION

FASHION 45 ‘Sakura’ silk flower appliquéd dress.

46 FASHION This page: Silk bustier and skirt with appliqued patches. Opposite page: Single strap dress with embroidery.

FASHION 47

48 ILLUSTRADO WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE Photography by: Melandro Sangalang, Solomon Yuzon, Precy Santos and Jit Sangalang

Six Filipinas Honored in Illustrado’s Women of Substance Event

Illustrado’s Women of Substance 2009

Illustrado has honored six significant Filipinas from different walks of life in a dazzling ceremony attended by some 250 guests, at The Montgomerie Golf Club on Saturday, the 4th April 2009.

Guests enjoying the talk show

Now in its second successive year, the Illustrado Women of Substance event is meant to celebrate female empowerment and to be a source of inspiration to the local Filipino community. “This is our way of saying thank you and acknowledging the contributions of our female compatriots to society, said Lalaine Chu-Benitez, Publisher and EditorIn-Chief of Illustrado magazine, during the event.

“By highlighting the achievements and efforts of our kababayans [compatriots], we wish to drive the message that all of us can make a mark someday if we only put our mind to it,” she added. “This endeavor is not a popularity contest. We take pride in showcasing the achievements of real people as role models and to show that we can be significant despite our ordinary, everyday existence.”

Isabel shares a light moment on stage with Lalaine

ILLUSTRADO WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE 49

Community Volunteer, Nurse Sis. Juliet Solas Dubai Govt. Excellence Awardee 2007

Lilian Vargas - of Dubai Duty Free

Engr. May Jane Alvero Al Mahdi of Geosciences Testing Labs - Emirates Business Women Awardee 2008

Among Illustrado’s honorees are engineer Mary Jane Alvero Al Mahdi, a chemist who rose to the position of CEO in a multidisciplinary testing laboratory in the United Arab Emirates and the first Filipina awardee in the prestigious Emirates Business Women’s Awards in 2008.

Senior manager Lilian Vargas of the Dubai Duty Free is one of most respected figures in her company. Vargas started out as a shop assistant 24 years ago and has since made her way up the corporate ladder. She has been responsible for some 1,600 employees and recruited staff from all over the world.

Vargas is currently in-charge of customer service and shop floor management at the Dubai International Airport where millions of passengers pass through each month.

UAE Filipino Press Club President and a Senior Reporter of The Gulf Today, Mariecar Jara-Puyod was also a recipient of

Multi-talented artist and model - Clarita de Quiroz Craig

Entrepreneur Isabel Sabado-Warren

Fil Press Club UAE Pres. Mariecar Jara-Puyod

50 ILLUSTRADO WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE tas xczck vz;l` vzxjvj`sl;adfaifas o

Rosemarie Tacorda of Jumeirah Hotels and Liza Michelle & Lee Stone

Oofrish Contractor of Liali Jewellery

Mrs. Alma Bandillo and Consul Butch Bandillo doing breathing exercises at the Art of Living session.

Ric Coreces, Cheng Rasul and Ishwar Chugani

MJ Winstanly & Joel Rodriguez

Guests doing a breathing exercise at the art of living session

Guests at The Montgomerie Golf Club Lawn

PHil. Business Council Dubai Pres. Wellness guru Sangeeta Kapoor Lucille Ong of Art of Living

Clarita and David Craig

Richie Burley of Dubai Duty Free and Keith Burley

Guests at the event Consul Gen. Noel Servigon opens the Program

ILLUSTRADO WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE 51 Ladies of the Dubai Duty Free

the Illustrado Women of Substance Award. This feisty and award-winning journalist is a passionate advocate of female empowerment.

Guests at the event

In recognition of the modern woman’s varied roles in life, the award also honored Isabelita Sabado-Warren. A dynamic entrepreneur and maker of the locally-grown Filipino brand of condiments and snacks popularly known here as Nanay Tuneng, Sabado-Warren is a philanthropist, a proud homemaker and an active community volunteer and who launched a feeding program in her hometown of Magdalena, Laguna last year.

Nurse Juliet Solas of Al Wasl Maternity Hospital is also a passionate community volunteer. She is the only Filipina so far who has received an Excellence Award from the government of Dubai. Sister Juliet, as she is fondly by Filipinos in the emirates, is an active leader of the Filipino Community Organization which provides support to hospitalized and jailed Filipinos who have no relatives in this part of the world.

Her group organizes church activities, particularly mass weddings for Filipino couples.

Multi-talented Clarita de Quiroz Craig, a classical pianist, singer and composer from the UK, also received the Illustrado Women of Substance Award. A well-known international model, De Quiroz Craig is a “kayumanggi beauty” of ScottishFilipino descent, proud of her Filipino heritage and traditional values.

Marcy Villapeña

Agnes and Trevor Stott-Briggs

Carla Penera and company

Andre Penano & Former Mutya ng Pilipinas Runner-Up Meg Arreza

Englishman Trevor Stott-Briggs, who is married to a Filipina for over 20 years, was a guest at the event. “The great thing about Filipinas is that they like to be women, he said. “They complement the men in their lives. They become successful and get the things that they want in their own unique, feminine way.”

Held in talk show format, the event also featured an Art of Living session with facilitator Sangeeta Kapoor, and was capped by the Dubai premiere of the music video, “My Funny Brown Pinay” by US-based Filipina jazz artist Charmaine Clamor. Clamor’s hit song celebrates pride in one’s natural beauty.

Illustrado’s Women of Substance Event was sponsored by Tribeca Real Estate (www.tribeca.com), Philippine Property Connection(www.philippinepropertyconnection.com), Enderun Colleges (www.enderuncolleges.com) and Pretty Fit shoes.

Consul Butch Bandillo, Consul Adel Cruz and Lileth Cruz

52 TRIPPIN’

Travelling Light George Tapan

By: Ivan Henares

Do you think you need lots of money to travel?

Yes, you do need funds to go places but it need not create a big hole in your pocket. Backpacking is one way of traveling economically and having fun while you see the beautiful Philippine islands.

Here are some useful tips on traveling light on the money -

Planning a trip begins with deciding where to go.

But there are instances when airline promotions can dictate when and where one can go. So why not wait for the best bargains and get cheap flights for the destination of the moment?

light colored clothing which easily soils. If you can survive with a pair of flip flops, that’s okay so you don’t have to bring heavy shoes. But if you’re planning to hike through rough terrain, a trusty pair of hiking shoes or sandals would be essential.

So unless you’re pressed for time, the market is the way to go. Plus some cities have specialized markets selling interesting cultural products. And it’s best to go around with a local to add some pressure when it comes to bargaining.

Research bus or ferry schedules if you plan to go city hopping. If schedules are not available online, you should check this as soon as you reach your destination. For long haul trips, make sure you are comfortable. Try the De Luxe buses for rides longer than five hours. They are a bit more expensive but travel time is shorter and the comfort gives you that added boost when you arrive.

Pack extra batteries, medicines (for diarrhea, constipation, motion sickness, fever, colds and allergies, etc.), sun block, mosquito repellant, and other supplies before you leave, especially if you are going to a remote destination where these may not be available or might be too expensive.

Try to eat where the locals eat because you can be sure that it’s tried and tested, cheap and delicious!

Don’t underestimate the local carinderia because if you want the real thing, it should be there. Just make sure you that the place is hygienic and that your food is well cooked.

Have enough cash on you so you don’t have to be hassled looking for an ATM. Capital municipalities in even the remotest of provinces have at least a Land Bank or PNB ATM, but you can never be sure that it will be online. Credit cards are useful since many provincial hotels and resorts already carry them.

The best attractions are off the beaten track, especially the natural ones. So do allot time for cheap thrills which include walking, hiking, biking or swimming. I got to rent a bike when I was in Batanes and it was fun until I got exhausted!

Return buses can be fully-booked, especially if you’re traveling during a fiesta or a long holiday.

So ask your host at the destination to purchase your return bus ticket in advance. Remember that round-trip bus tickets in the Philippines are not always available.

Upon arrival at an airport, secure free maps and info brochures at the tourism counter. If there isn’t any, your hotel should have some. These come in handy when you make your way around town and could save you money from engaging unnecessary hired guides. However, for mountain treks and similar activities, it is always safer to have accredited guides with you.

Hotel stays are usually the biggest part of travel expenses. Choosing one depends on personal preferences. Consider how long you’ll actually sleep at the hotel (sometimes, it’s just for a few hours) to help you make a good choice. Although, it’s wise to look for a hotel which offers free breakfast and WiFi (which will save you a lot), make sure you compare rates with so you know if the difference is worth it.

Travel as light and wear light clothes as well. Bring jeans or shorts which you can reuse and avoid

Buy stuff, especially souvenirs, at the local market.

Prices at hotel and airport shops are usually higher.

Avoid crowds. But if you have to walk through one, be extra alert and discreetly keep your hands close to your valuables such as your wallet and mobile phone. Also, try not to wear jewelry while backpacking. No one would notice you anyway except the snatchers.

In the end, backpacking will only work if you keep an open mind and are ready for surprises.

What is important is that you have fun all the way. Any inconveniences or untoward incidents become part of the adventure. You can say you lived to tell the tale. I got stranded once, and that was one hell of an adventure.

Have your own website or run your own online biz with just PHP25 or AED2 per day Are you a Filipino entrepreneur looking for added sales?

An enterprising Pinoy with a freelance or home-based business?

Or a kababayan wanting to start your own ‘negosyo’?

Soar with the Philippine Eagle -

Agilaglobal.net One Community. One Global Marketplace.

INFORM > PROMOTE > SELL> EARN > SHOP

36 BEAUTIFUL PHILIPPINES

Beautiful

The Philippines is blessed with pristine white sand beaches, colorful islets, diverse marine life, exotic flora and fauna and breathtaking panoramic views for nature lovers and the discriminate travelers.

The marketing and promotion of our remarkable and scenic wonders continue to be successful with the support of Filipinos around the world.

Together with the dynamic initiatives of the publishers of Illustrado Magazine in Dubai, we take this opportunity to invite all of you to explore a treasure trove of 7,107 islands filled with wonderful discoveries that include our rich history and culture, lush tropical landscapes, fine hotels and resorts, up-market and bargain shopping centers, exciting outdoor and nightfall activities, a variety of eating places that serve exotic concoctions of culinary delights, and above all‌experience the warmest and friendliest welcome absolutely beyond the usual.

Mabuhay!

ACE DURANO Secretary Philippine Department of Tourism

BEAUTIFUL PHLIPPINES 37

Philppines in collaboration with

GEORGE TAPAN images courtesy of The Philippine Department of Tourism

56 BEAUTIFUL PHILIPPINES

The Grandeur

that is

Luzon The 15th largest and 4th most populous island in the word is also the Philippine’s biggest landmass – Luzon.

It is the seat of Philippine government and its de facto center for business and culture of the Philippines. It has eight regions namely – the National Capital Region (NCR) also known as MetroManila, Ilocos Region, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon), Mimaro (Marinduque, Mindoro and Romblon), and Bicol Region.

Luzon has many of the Philippines’ grandest natural features. A very mountainous island, it is home to Mount Pulag, the second highest mountain in the country, the majestic Mayon volcano and the longest mountain range in the country – the Sierra Madre.

Running through the center of the Cordilleras is the Philippines’ longest river, the Cagayan River while to the southeast of Manila Bay is Southeast Asia’s largest inland lake, the legendary Laguna de Bay. Further south is the stunning volcano within a lake, the country’s smallest but one of its most breathtaking sights – Taal Volcano.

A virtual tour of Luzon will not be complete without mentioning its splendid manmade features which bridge the old and the new. These include colossal human feats of engineering like the Banaue Rice terraces, as well as historical churches and edifices spread around the islands. Of particular note is the city of Vigan in Ilocos province, the oldest surviving Spanish colonial city in the Philippines, Kawit, Cavite the cradle of the Philippine Revolution, as well as World War II monument Corregidor. These historical landmarks provide stark contrast to pulsating Metro Manila, particularly Makati the country’s financial hub, which is replete with all the trappings of modern cosmopolitan life.

BANAUE RICE TERRACES - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Banaue Rice Terraces rising 1,500 meters above sea level are 2,000 year old terraces with an area of over 10,000 sq km of mountainside carved by hand by the ancient Ifugao. The terraces which are used to this day by locals for planting rice and vegetables are fed by an indigenous irrigation system from the rainforests in the mountains.

POTTERY IN VIGAN – In the only surviving Hispanic city of Vigan, another World Heritage Site, well-known for its cobbled streets, colonial architecture and old world feel, centuries old arts remain in practice to this day. One of the more famous ones is pottery – particularly that of Burnay jar making. According to historians, the Burnay industry existed even before the Spaniards came and is believed to have been brought by migrant Chinese.

©George Tapan Photos

POTTERY IN VIGAN

BEAUTIFUL PHLIPPINES 57 BANAUE RICE TERRACES

CALIRAYA LAKE

58 BEAUTIFUL PHILIPPINES CALIRAYA LAKE Home of several beautiful Laguna resorts, Caliraya is a manmade mountain lake which was originally built as a large water reservoir in the 1930’s. With coves and sandbars, cool waters and the beautiful unspoilt surroundings, Caliraya has inevitably transformed into one destination frequented by visitors for camping, marine sports and fishing.

BARASOAIN – Within the Philippines acknowledged cradle of national heroes and the home of quite a number of National Artists, the province of Bulacan, is the birthplace of the First Constitutional Democracy in Asia (1899) – the Barasoain Church in Malolos.

Proclaimed a National Shrine by Ferdinand Marcos in August 1, 1973, the church founded by Augustinian missionaries in 1859 is renowned for its architectural design as well as the notable events which transpired here. During the Philippine Revolution, the church served as the temporary residence of General Emilio Aguinaldo. It was also the venue of the first Philippine Congress in September 15, 1898, the drafting of the Malolos Constitution from September 29 1898 to January 21, 1899, and the inauguration of the first Philippine Republic in January 23, 1899.

MAKATI – Makati is the foremost commercial and economic hub of the Philippines. Touted as the country’s own version of Wall Street complete with skyscrapers, it has major Philippine and foreign corporations, including the Philippine Stock Exchange, holding headquarters here. With a highly cosmopolitan culture to match, Makati is also the playground for many affluent Filipinos and expatriates who come to stay here to enjoy the trappings of a sophisticated lifestyle. The city has the best of the country’s five star hotels, premium shopping and dining experience, as well as entertainment and culture.

MAYON VOLCANO – Considered as the world’s most perfectly formed volcano, Mayon’s majesty is quite a sight to behold. Its serene appearance, however, belies its tumultuous nature and the fact that it is the most active volcano in the Philippines which has erupted 47 times in the last 400 years. Mayon, which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, is the main landmark of Albay province.

MAKATI

©George Tapan

HUNDRED ISLANDS – 124 islands at low tide (123 at high tide) dot the gulf of Lingayen in Alaminos, Pangasinan, in what is one of the most stunning places in the archipelago. Called the ‘Hundred Islands’ the formations scattered like emeralds in the sea, are believed to be about two million years old. Three of the islands - Governor Island, Quezon Island, and Children’s Island - have been developed for tourist use with facilities like a guesthouse, bahay kubos, pavilions and other accommodation facilities. The other islands are pristine unexplored coves and islets awaiting those who want privacy and solitude.

BEAUTIFUL PHLIPPINES 59

©TonyOquias@Dreamstime

barasoain

MAYON VOLCANO

©Ewan Chesser@Dreamstime

©George Tapan

HUNDRED ISLANDS

TUBBATAHA REEFS

60 BEAUTIFUL PHILIPPINES

PALAWAN – Declared a nature sanctuary of the world, the Island province of Palawan is wrapped in a mantel of rainforests, outstanding dive sites, primeval caves and pristine beaches. Dubbed the Philippines’ Last Frontier, Palawan is surrounded by a coral shelf that abounds with rich marine life and boasts exotic flora and fauna, found nowhere else in the country. One of its most popular spots is EL Nido occupying an area of 96,000 hectares boasting of diverse ecosystems such as rainforests, mangroves, white sand beaches, coral reefs, and limestone reefs as well as a variety of fishes, like manta ray and the sea cow or ‘dugong,’ known as the world’s rarest marine mammal. It is now one of the country’s premier destinations, blessed with amazing natural scenery, and considered as a sanctuary for various forms of wildlife.

TUBBATAHA REEFS – The Philippines’ only marine natural park, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site – a place of global importance and uniqueness being preserved for generations to come. The reefs which rise from the depths of the Sulu Sea is home to over a thousand marine species, from majestic whale sharks to elusive seahorses and manta rays.

puerto princesa

George Tapan

PUERTO PRINCESA SUBTERRANEAN RIVER – Another UNESCO World Heritage Site this natural wonder located in Bahile, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, features an 8.2 kilometer navigable underground rived, reputed to be the world’s longest, winding through a spectacular cave before emptying out into the South China Sea. This river flows within a deep cavern under rugged limestone and marble cliffs and features an underground lagoon, stalactite pillars, rock formations, and domed amphitheaters.

George Tapan

CORON – Seven enchanting lakes surrounded by craggy limestone cliffs attract hundreds of nature lovers to Coron. This island at the northern tip of Palawan is a famous jump-off point for numerous dive operators and is mainly known for several Japanese shipwrecks of World War II vintage. The area around the wrecks has pleasant rock formations which provide excellent snorkeling opportunities, with underwater visibility extending up to 80 feet. With the spectacular underwater views and calm waters, Coron is one of the most visited dive sites around the country.

BEAUTIFUL PHLIPPINES 61

©Fuzzed@Dreamstime

coron

62 BEAUTIFUL PHILIPPINES

The Beauty

that is

Visayas The island group at the central part of the Philippines known as the Visayas is a region blessed with picture perfect natural beauty. This area of 16 provinces is divided into three sectors namely Western Visayas (Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo and Negros Occidental), Central Visayas (Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental and Siquijor), and Eastern Visayas (Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar and Samar) is known the world over for its white sandy beaches and pristine waters, lush forests, amazing inland water features, places of historical interest, as well as its beautiful people. Within the Visayas are quite a number of the Philippines’ best tourist destinations that not only bring Filipinos but foreigners by the droves.

CEBU – The Queen City of the South is not only known for its significance in Philippine history but also as an internationally-renowned destination in the country.

With its narrow coastlines, limestone plateaus and coastal plains combined with rolling hills and rugged mountain ranges, Cebu is one holiday venue with lots on offer – from five-star hotel resorts, to numerous activities, to a vibrant nightlife. In 2007, UK-based Condé Nast Traveler Magazine named Cebu the seventh best island destination in the Indian OceanAsia region in 2007. Cebu also ranked eighth best Asian-Pacific island destination in 2005, and seventh in 2004. The province is also considered the hub of commerce in the Visayas region, with manufacturing and exports high on its list of economic activities.

CHOCOLATE HILLS

George Tapan

CHOCOLATE HILLS – Bohol’s famous unusual geological formation is made up of 1,268 perfectly cone-shaped hills of almost the same size spread over an area of 50 square kilometers. The Chocolate Hills has been declared the country’s third National Geological Monument in recognition of scientific value and uniqueness.

©Fleyeing@Dreamstime

LOBOC – Loboc is a municipality of Bohol a few kilometers from the city of Tagbilaran, where visitors throng to enjoy the lush tropical paradise via a boat ride through it scenic winding river. Loboc’s rainforest is also the home of the world’s smallest primate, the tarsier, a diminutive nocturnal animal with large eyes indigenous to South East Asia. Considered the cradle of the ‘Boholano soul’ it was in the town of Loboc where Boholanos developed the traits of deep religiosity and dedication to traditional values, from the first hundreds of years of Spanish occupation. A testament to this is the highly revered church of Loboc, the first stone church built in 1602 by the Jesuits, which is not only made special by the distinctive architecture and collection of relics, but also its importance in the history of the province.

BEAUTIFUL PHLIPPINES 63

CEBU

SINULOG DE TANJAY

©George Tapan

©Joey Gil@Dreamstime

LOBOC

64 BEAUTIFUL PHILIPPINES

SINULOG DE TANJAY – Tanjay is a city in the province of Negros Oriental located 30 kilometers north of Dumaguete with a famous tradition that attracts participants from all over the region. The Sinulog, an original Tanjay tradition, is a religious festival that features devotional dance which depicts the war between Moros and Christians. It is a fiesta done in honor of Señor Santiago (St. James the Greater), the patron saint of Tanjay.

SAN JUANICO BRIDGE – The longest bridge in the Philippines, spanning 2.16 kilometers and rising 41 meters above sea level is also considered one of the most beautiful manmade structures in the country – the San Juanico Bridge. Connecting Leyte and Samar, the compression arch bridge which is part of the Pan-Philippine Highway, offers picturesque views of the stunning San Juanico Strait with its whirlpools and islets.

ATI-ATIHAN FESTIVAL

©Ronald Sue@Dreamstime

ATI-ATIHAN FESTIVAL – Touted as the mother of all Philippine festivals, the Ati-Atihan is an ancient festival held in honor of the Sto. Niño in Kalibo, Aklan every third Sunday of January. The colorful and vibrant AtiAtihan feast features dancers with charcoal blacked faces (mimicking Aklan’s indigenous inhabitants, the Ati) dancing to the hypnotic rhythmic sounds of drumbeat. It is a religious, social, native activity and tourist attraction rolled into one.

©Simon Gurney@Dreamstime

BORACAY - One of the most famous, if not THE definitive holiday destination in the Philippines is this tropical island off the northwest tip of Panay in Western Visayas. Boracay, which lies in the province of Aklan was originally inhabited by the Ati tribe, until it became famous when tourism started developing in the ‘70s. Much has been written about this place and a lot have already gone to visit this haven for rest and relaxation, but people just keep coming back with the irresistible draw of fun beach life. ‘Bora’ as it is fondly called is considered an island paradise famous for its powdery soft white sand and clear blue waters. It has two main islands meant for commercial tourism. The more popular is White Beach, a four kilometer area dotted with countless hotels, resorts, lodging houses and spas and other establishments. On the opposite side is Bulabog Beach which is mainly frequented by windsurfers and kiteboarders. As a holiday haunt, the place offers a wealth of activities for visiting tourists – from snorkeling, diving to sailing, boat trips, windsurfing, horseback riding to simply relaxing by the beach side with pampering massage. Another aspect that has kept Boracay a perennial vacation favorite is the sunny bohemian lifestyle that is all pervasive in the island, as well as how the place comes alive with party fever when it gets dark.

BEAUTIFUL PHLIPPINES 65 BORACAY

George Tapan

SAN JUANICO BRIDGE

66 BEAUTIFUL PHILIPPINES

The Discovery

that is

Mindanao The second largest island in the Philippines and the eighth most populous in the world is Mindanao.

Of all the regions of the archipelago, Mindanao displays the greatest geographic diversity with rugged mountains, volcanic peaks, high rolling plateaus, broad swampy plains and coastal lowlands giving the island an astounding contrast of geological features.

Mountainous Mindanao is home to the Philippines’ highest peak which rises to 2,954 meters – Mount Apo, and at the same time the location of one of the greatest depths known on the earth’s surface – the Philippine Deep, an ocean trench with a measured depth of 35,400 feet. Volcanoes also abound in this part of the Philippines. The notable active peaks include the Butig Peaks, Mount Ragang and Mount Kitanglad, as well as Mount Parker in the Cotabato and Bukidnon area.

Apart from mountains and volcanoes are extensive plateaus of basaltic lava flows in Bukidnon and Lanao del Sur. But Mindanao’s natural riches are not exclusive to its land. The region also has an abundance of water features – waterfalls, lakes and rivers which include the Lanao Lake, the largest in Mindanao and second in the country known for its scenic grandeur and pleasant temperature. The fact that Mindanao is surrounded by water - the Sulu Sea to the west, the Philippine Sea to the east, and the Celebes Sea to the south – gives it unparalleled rich coral reefs and marine life.

BUKIDNON – The food basket of Mindanao is almost synonymous with the word ‘pineapple’ – the province’s most popular produce. Located at a landlocked plateau at the north center of Mindanao it is also known as the watershed of the region and is endowed with six major river systems – the Pulangi, Tagoloan, Cagayan, Manupali, Muleta and Bobonawan rivers, which have carved the province’s landscape creating numerous canyons.

CAMIGUIN

©Simon Gurney@Dreamstime

CAMIGUIN – This island has seven volcanoes which has given it an unusual mix of spectacularly varied ecosystem, all in one small place. Camiguin is a place of untouched beauty, a veritable Garden of Eden with beaches, lush forests, and waterfalls, eternal cold and hot springs, exotic marine life and a serene local lifestyle to match. The amazing natural resources and peaceful atmosphere enchants even the most jaded of world travelers.

George Tapan

ZAMBOANGA – New visitors to Zamboanga city will be surprised to find that Spanish is spoken more than any Filipino language, because in Asia’s Latin City, the locals largely speak Chavacano – a Spanish-based creole language. The city is considered as one of the most romantic spots in the Philippines noted for its unspoilt tropical scenery, magnificent flowers, seashells, exotic Chavacano food, as well as its colorful vintas – small boats with colorful sails.

BEAUTIFUL PHLIPPINES 67 ZAMBOANGA

©George Tapan

bukidnon

©Aliawan@Dreamstime

68 BEAUTIFUL PHILIPPINES

MARIA CRISTINA FALLS – Also called ‘Twin Falls’ the Maria Cristina is the main water landmark of Iligan City which boasts over 30 waterfalls in its immediate area. It is renowned not only for its grandeur, rising 98 meters, but as the primary source of hydro electric power feeding Iligan City’s main industries as harnessed by the Agus VI Hydroelectric Plant, earning it the title “Mother of Industry” and “Fountainhead of Progress.”

TINUY-AN FALLS – Tinuy-An Falls in Surigao del Sur is the main tourist attraction of Bislig – a city known as the Booming City by the Bay. With a height of 55 meters and a width of 95 meters, the Tinuy-An is the widest waterfalls in the country – earning the nickname, the Philippines’ Little Niagara. The threetiered wonder of thunderous cascading waters is surrounded by a thick rainforest with centuries old trees and ferns.

SIARGAO – The waves of this island in Surigao del Norte has made it the «The Surfing Capital of the Philippines» with a reputation among surfers within the Philippines and the international scene. Siargao, particularly Cloud 9 has a worldwide reputation for thick hollow tubes and is the venue for the annual Siargao Cup hosted by the Surigao del Norte government every September.

©Geoge Tapan

SIARGAO

MARIA CHRISTINA FALLS

BEAUTIFUL PHLIPPINES 69

©Fleyeing@Dreamstime

TINUYAN FALLS

70 TRIPPIN’

New

To

Do

in the Philippines By: Vic Albornoz Lactaoen

Go for an adventure, relax and simply have fun - there is always a list of your favorite things to do when visiting the Philippines. Here is a list of 40 “must do’s” which are out of the usual. Deviate from your old favorite haunts, and experience new things, new places, new people and new tastes.

The Philippines has it all when it comes to having a good time. Be sure to make the most of your visit to the country and explore all the exciting possibilities in store! Happy tripping!

12. Climb up to Mount Pinatubo and enjoy 1. Check out the enormous Mall of Asia

the surreal landscape and volcano lake.

fronting Manila Bay in Pasay City for the best of shopping and dining.

13. Enjoy the sunrise at Mount Pulog in

2. Get the latest luxury brands, including

northern Luzon at 2,931 meters above sea level.

26. Trek to Sagada and discover why people call it the Heaven in the Highlands.

14. Drive along the way of the sun and

27. Taste Tayabas Quezon’s lambanog which is grown in abundance in the area.

fashion from Filipino top designers, at Greenbelt 5 in Makati and see how style conscious we Filipinos can be.

venues of the CCP.

explore the food, coffee and the hearty homes of local artists on the Southern Tagalog circuit.

3

. Go to the nearest Kultura shop at any SM Mall and buy all those pasalubongs you only hear about from other Balikbayans

28. Try some sweet lanzones at Camiquin’s Lanzones festival in November.

15. Visit Oar House along Mabini in Malate and enjoy warm food and cold San Miguel beer.

4. Check out the Ecostore in Serendra at The Fort in Bonifacio if you care about the environment. Patronize this store and be amazed at the ‘’green lifestyle” items they have.

The Fort for a mix of art and night life.

5. Taste stylized Pinoy dishes at Travel Café

Embassy Cuisine Club at Fort Bonifacio in Makati where Mondays are the new Saturdays.

6. Dine out turo-turo style at any of the

18. Come to paradise at The Farm in San

nearest wet markets in town and try out good old isaw, balut , penoy and other scrumptious street food.

Benito, Batangas or Mandala Spa in Boracay or the Chi in Mactan Cebu and get to experience the treatment of a lifetime many locals are raving about.

30. While away the afternoon with a brewed coffee at café Adriatico in Malate.

31. Get ‘high’ at the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival at Clark Air Base.

32. Listen to the unusal melody of the bamboo organ played at Las Pinas.

7. Fly out to Bohol province and find out why it has become a recent tourism phenomenon.

29. Put on a mask and party at the Maskara festival of Bacolod in October.

16. Check out Mag:net Gallery Café at 17. Forget the weekends and head to the

in Greenbelt 3. Kare Kare and adobo have never tasted so exotic!

25. Watch a play at the many performance

19. Savor the Filipino touch of hilot at Sanctuario Spa along Jorge Bocobo in Malate Manila Timog in Quezon City or Taal in Batangas.

8. Tread along the brick road of Baywalk along Roxas Boulevard in Manila.

20. Surf in Siargao and blog about all

33. Crave for crispichon at any of Andok’s or Baliwag Lechon stalls all over the country.

34. Sail in a colorful vinta in Zamboanga.

35. Join a river cruise in Bohol.

36. Go on a safari in Calawit, Palawan.

37. Go white river rafting in the Cagayan Valley rapids.

things that make it so great.

9. Experience the chilling altitude of 38. Watch a play at the new Peta theater in

Baguio City’s night life.

21. Check out the grand old mansions in 10. Despite its offbeat location drop

Silay Negros Occidental or the majestic churches of Iloilo.

by Club Mwah along Boni Avenue in Mandaluyong and enjoy one of the classiest drag shows in town.

22. Taste the traditional sulipan cooking at Larry Cruz’s place in Arayat, Pampanga.

11. Experience the unique festivals of Sinulog in Cebu, Penagbenga in Baguio Kadayawan in Davao and the mother of all festivals – the Atiatihan in Kalibo.

23. Enjoy the Pahiyas festival in Lucban for

midtown Quezon City.

39. Relive the height of the tobacco monopoly in Vigan Ilocos Sur by dressing up 1850s style and savoring the popular food of that era.

40. Get sun tanned in Cagbalete Quezon

its sheer color and flamboyance. and enjoy their unspoilt coastline.

24. Practice your swing at any of the 300 golf courses in the country.

TRIPPIN’ 71

Top

Summer

Spots

in the Philippines By: KC M. Abalos

By: KC M. Abalos

Sun, sand, surf… the ingredients of a great summer!

We have all that and more in the Philippines all year round! But the sun shines brightest in our part of the world during the months of April and May. During these sizzling months, if you’re planning a summer trip, here are some destinations that you might want to check out:

10. Batangas Batangas is a favorite spot for family reunions, barkada outings, and company team-building events with its beaches and resorts, as well as proximity to Manila. Check out Matabungkay, Nasugbu, Calatagan and Anilao which is well known for its breathtaking underwater treasures.

Must Try: Beachcombing for Pretty Shells Must Eat: Sizzling Bulalo Must Buy: Buko Pie

9. La Union La Union’s beaches boast the most amazing waves making the province has the top destination for surfers. Try out the surf or learn to ride the waves by taking lessons from the surfer dudes and dudettes who are eager to teach newbies.

Must Try: Surfing Must Eat: Pinakbet with Bagnet Must Buy: Surfing Lessons

7. Tagaytay

3. Baguio

With its crisp, cool winds, Tagaytay has always been the favorite getaway of Manileños – a place for romantic dinners, pamper days at the many spas, al fresco lunches, picnics or simply chill out afternoons spent just taking in the beautiful view.

Meditate. Relax. Breathe.

Must Do: Hire a boat to visit Taal Volcano Must Eat: Mushroom Burger Must Buy: Potted Plants

Baguio is a place that’s “cool” in so many ways.

Yes, the weather is cool—the wind smelling of pine tree needles. The shopping is ‘’cool’’ because of ukay-ukay (secondhand/ thrift clothing shops) bargains. The cuisine is “cool” because of the abundance of fresh vegetables and fruits. The places to visit are “cool” because of the variety.

Check out Mines View Park, ride a horse at Wright Park, go biking in central Burnham Park, and if you’re up to it spend a couple of hours to visit the famed Banaue Rice Terraces.

Must Do: Walk along Session Road Must Eat: at Café by the Ruins Must Buy: Fresh Strawberries and Silver Accessories

6. Bohol From Loboc’s river cruises to the Chocolate Hills, variety is certainly not a problem in beautiful Bohol. Here you’ll see historical churches, while the sea is never far. Stay in Panglao where swimming, snorkeling, and island hopping will keep you happily occupied.

Must Do: Dolphin Watching Must Eat: Halo-Halo at the Bohol Bee Farm Must Buy: Peanut Kisses

5. Pagudpud It’s far, but it’s definitely worth the ride.

Pagudpud spells endless pristine beaches and strong waves. After resting and enjoying the summer sun, explore the town’s other charms like Kaibigan Falls and Malingay Cove aka Blue Lagoon.

Must Do: Find a beach all to yourself (Yes, it’s possible in Pagudpud.)

Must Eat: Logganisa all the way from Laoag Must Buy: Fruits available along the road

8. Subic Bay The former American naval base is now a portof-call for fun activities perfect for the entire family. Go PX goods shopping, golfing and sailing or watch maritime shows at Ocean Adventure.

You can also try High Ladder Climbing, Canopy Sliding or High Pole Jumping. Or, better yet, go through the Jungle Environment Survival Training Camp.

Must Try: Wilderness Lessons Must Eat: Steak Must Buy: American chocolate bars

4. Puerto Galera Puerto Galera is a perennial summer haunt for college students. – THE happening place for beach parties and barkada gimmicks—easily within a student’s budget. Easily accessible by boat from the Batangas Pier, Galera has beaches that rival Batangas and La Union, and a nightlife is as famous as its shores.

Must Do: Dance right on the shore after sundown Must Drink: Mindoro Sling Must Buy: Friendship bracelets made of colorful thread

2. Palawan With its breathtaking, countless islands, underground river, and its own safari - the last frontier of the Philippines is surely an amazing place to visit. However, except for a handful of people, including the A-list of Hollywood stars, a trip to Palawan is quite prohibitively expensive.

But if you choose to splurge on a trip of a lifetime, Palawan is definitely THE place to go.

Must Do: Take a boat and get lost in the Grotto Must Eat: Colorful fishes that seem too pretty to be eaten but actually taste good Must Buy: If you have the money, an islet?

1. Boracay Island Boracay remains number one on any traveler’s summer haunt in the Philippines, and most people will probably agree. It is paradise right smack in the middle of the blue sea. Among the thousands of islands in the Philippines, Boracay is probably the most special. For the fine white sand, the spas, for the scrumptious food and countless water activities, the multi-cultural crowd, as well as its legendary nightlife – it’s just like landing in one big beach party.

Must Do: Get a massage right on the shore Must Eat: Grilled Seafood and Sinigang na Sugpo Must Buy: Puca Shell Accessories

72 ENTERTAINMENT

Charmaine Clamor: Bringing Jazzipino to the World Stage

By Jude Cartalaba

Belting ‘Ave Maria’ while standing at the aisle of a Victory Liner bus, three-year-old Charmaine Clamor entertained commuters on their way from Subic to Manila. The passengers cheered and applauded the little girl who had the dream of becoming a real performer someday. Now all grown up, with a distinctive sultry voice, languid moves and unpretentious Pinoy attitude, the little girl who loved to sing has become America’s leading Filipina and world jazz vocalist, achieving the rare feat of making the Top-5 on both Jazz Week’s World number 2 ranking and Traditional Jazz’s number 4 radio charts simultaneously.

Charmaine migrated to the U.S. at 16, right after graduating from high school as class valedictorian. There, she earned a Masters Degree in Physical Therapy at Cal State-Northridge, while one the side, working as KJ or ‘karaoke jock’ to indulge her love for music. Quite inevitably, her talent was soon discovered while she worked, singing Whitney Houston songs at a Filipino restaurant.

Charmaine was given her first professional break by Bobby Garcia, musical director of Crescendo, in 1996.

Crescendo is a jazz vocal quintet with a diversified group of American, Afro-American, Indonesian and Filipino singers.

The group performed often at the Catalina Bar & Grill on Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood, one of the most prestigious clubs in California. It was here where Charmaine saw her love for jazz take on a new meaning as her career changed course. Bobby Garcia provided her a solo number in the quintet and thereafter, she was offered to do a demo, and a record. The rest, as they say, is history.

In 2005, following nearly a decade of ensemble singing, Charmaine made her solo recording debut with “Searching for the Soul,’’ with critics and disc jockeys comparing her sultry vocals to legendary jazz greats Nina Simone, Nancy Wilson, Julie London, Lena Horne, and Cassandra Wilson.

But perhaps even more outstanding than her sheer vocal talent is her enthusiasm to promote a unique musical genre that pays tribute to the distinct sounds from the motherland. She has given rise to “jazzipino” which she explains is “the fusion of traditional Filipino melodies, languages and instruments with the soul and swing of American Jazz.”

At the onset, Charmaine received mixed reviews from her peers, but she still went ahead with it the project. “At first, they said ‘it won’t sell,’ but the unique blend of such music did prevail,” she says triumphantly. “The attempt was a huge hit.”

ENTERTAINMENT 73

Now, Charmaine is recognized as the leading Filipina jazz artist in America, with the distinction of bringing the modern “harana” or serenade, to US audiences.

The success of her successful second album, Flippin’ Out, which features her socio-political single, ‘My Funny Brown Pinay’ (sang to the tune of My Funny Valentine), a self-confessed favorite, has further cemented Charmaine’s brand of music and obvious national pride.

“No matter where I perform around the world, I share my heritage with pride,” she says beaming with confidence. “After the astonishing success of my last CD, Flippin’ Out, I was more determined than ever to promote the beautiful musical traditions of the Philippines. Mainstream listeners love the songs. But this album is really for my kababayans.”

Not content with just stage impact, Charmaine has taken her musical and cultural trailblazing to another level by becoming a founding member of JazzPhilUSA, a non-profit organization that promotes jazz artists of Filipino descent in the US, pushing for the introduction of Filipino culture to mainstream audiences and providing support to talented artists who lack exposure.

“Can Filipinos really do jazz?” Charmaine throws that question as challenge to her group who endeavor to bring out the best in the Pinoy artists in the US. “Over the years, we have influenced the genre itself, everybody has added to the pot. It displays how good we are as jazz artists.” She continues, “It is difficult to absorb jazz, only a few are able to appreciate it. But this is where we want to help our own artists, to help them really perform, to shine.”

Her body of work and efforts were recognized when she was honored by the US Filipina Women’s Network as one of the 100 Most Influential Filipinas in the US in 1997.

Music industry-wise, she has simultaneously made the top five on both JazzWeek’s World as number two and Traditional Jazz chart as number

four, making her the first FilipinoAmerican artist to place two consecutive recordings in the World Music Top 10.

LA Weekly jazz critic Brick Wahl says of Charmaine, “She is a rising star.”

Clamor has also graced the pages on NPR’s Weekend Edition and BBC’s The World.

This year, the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS), the ‘Oscars’ of the Philippines, will honor Charmaine with a special trophy as ‘Philippine Pride – Best Jazz Vocalist’ during the 57th Annual Gabi ng Parangal to be held at the Manila Hotel on June 27th. She is slated to perform one of her Jazzipino numbers during the live telecast, and will be presenting the FAMAS trophy to the year’s winner for Best Movie Theme Song.

Charmaine, who is a Grace Nono, Lani Misalucha and Regine Velasquez fan has this to say to aspiring jazz artists - “Find what it is in you that is unique. Draw from it and emphasize it in your art.”

She adds, “Learn as much as you can about your instrument. For example, if you are a singer, know the history of jazz in general

then Pinoy jazz. Take music lessons.

Learn how to play an instrument. Learn from other great jazz artists both vocalists and instrumentalists. Watch a lot of live performances and learn from them.”

She recalls her experience of watching a phenomenal live recording session of one of her favorite female vocalist and how she was in awe with how much improvisation went on.

“It was amazing and this experience reminded me of the most important ingredient in artistic success letting go; being in your ‘space’ is the key to ultimate expression.”

Today, managed by Michael Konik of Freeham Records, an independent U.S. recording company known for soulful jazz whose stable of artists include Tony-Award winning Blues great, Linda Hopkins, Charmaine continues to champion the cause of her unique genre and considers herself an ‘enlightened’ artist. Time and time again, listening to her favorite song – “My Funny Brown Pinay” her listeners are reminded that there is so much more beyond the brown skin and flat nose, that we Filipinos can be proud of.

74 FILIPINISMS

Onli In Da Pilipins - 1. n. a phrase used to define anything or anyone that only exists anywhere in the 7,107 islands of the Philippines || 2. adj. a phrase used to describe a Pinas episode or a Pinoy persona so rare one would never find anywhere else in the WWW (whole, wide world). It merits a documentation of some sort.

Promises, Panata, Powers, atbp.

BY: ABY YAP

This Holy Week, please take a moment of silence to reflect and answer this question: Are you (a) religious, (b) superstitious, (c) adventurous, or (d) all of the above?

Fear not, my brothers and sisters; there are neither right nor wrong answers.

This is not even a test on whether you’re the perfect person for heavenly rewards or, well, for the other world down there.

This is just something you could ponder on while taking that hopefully long April break.

So how Pinoy are you during the Semana Santa?

I Swear…

No, you can’t swear. No bad/dirty/ blasphemous words this time of the year, remember? And, of course, no bad/dirty/ blasphemous thoughts and deeds either.

But if you mean practicing your panata, then stick to it, by all means.

Sure, abstinence. No meat, music, sex, cigarette, liquor, gambling, gimik, gossip.

The key is to deny yourself of things and activities, even people that put you on cloud nine or make your life comfy, because you’re doing this as a sacrifice in observance of Semana Santa. Don’t laugh, talk, dance, sing, eat, bathe, etc. Or, do it lightly (or when there’s nobody around, especially the elders — but that would be cheating). If you need to get rid of flab sans the pain and cost of liposuction, fasting might do you good. You’d even avoid being teased about for whom you’re doing that Strive to be Sexy mission. Better yet, no one would offer and tempt you with sinful food since everyone is busy fulfilling their own vows.

If you’re the religious type, rejoice, err, repent. And be glad because Lenten activities are tailor-made for you. The church becomes your second home, too.

If you’re doing your panata for penance, make your list of offenses for a day-long confession and keep your prayer books handy for a mass everyday of the week.

There’s a mass on Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday, as well as for the Washing of the Feet and the Seven Last Words. For the songbird in you, attend the non-stop Pabasa sessions of the community lolas to internalize the passion and death.

Now here’s an idea: if you want to travel in dutiful Mahal na Araw mode, scout for 14 churches for your Visita Iglesias or

FILIPINISMS 75

The Oddventurous How else would you describe the strong will, daring spirit, and bottomless faith of Filipinos who could achieve such feats that have been both hailed and feared all over the world?

Penitensya…ouch! Hearing or reading the word alone would activate your pain sensors (like when the doctor says “injection”). How much more for those men who scourge their bare backs with twigs, or ropes that have broken glass pieces or nails on their ends? And they’re walking barefoot under the scorching sun, watched by the uzis and what-have-you’s! To top it all, some of these brave souls even bathe in the river or sea! Imagine pouring alcohol on your teeny wound and multiply it by a million times.

Fourteen Stations of the Cross itinerary. You could go as far as Vigan (and feast on the province’s rustic charm and yummy empanada) and no one would suspect that you’re having fun when the atmosphere calls for a sorrowful stance. Or, you could go to Tagaytay or Antipolo for a three-day retreat. And while you’re out there soul-searching, relax and recharge as well for your comeback to office hell. There’s also a prayer retreat in Araneta Coliseum, though, if your Holy Week isn’t complete without Fr. Sonny Ramirez.

But if you choose to abstain from spending and your feet are itching for a trip, summon all your physically fit buddies, gear yourself with good trekking shoes and a water-filled tumbler, and join the procession in your baranggay or the Alay Lakad to Antipolo.

Okay, so you’re not fond of squeezing your body into the multitude of sweaty bodies holding melting candles, while parading around the neighborhood. That’s not enough to earn the ire of the saints, don’t worry. You could still keep your promise to your parents that you’d faithfully observe Holy Week Pinoy style no matter what.

Why not continue their tradition of preparing some ginataang halo-halo/mais/munggo and salabat to give to the weary Pasyon leaders for free? Oh, well, you could always invite your family to a movie marathon of The Ten Commandments, Passion of Christ, Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Last Temptation of Christ, Hesus, and even Eat Bulaga’s Lenten Drama Special.

Senakulo. That’s a GP-rated play, you say? Not when the crucifixion scene is for real! Carrying your cross, literally speaking, is exhausting enough. But when you allow your hands to be nailed to the wooden cross with almost halfruler sized steel nails — that becomes one excruciating story! Real blood thus comes with real tears. Ask Rosanna Roces — she did the real thing in her latest film.

So why would these Pinoys — men and women at that — go to such extremes? Is it because of (a) sins too heavy, (b) favors too great, or (3) gratitude too profound?

(With the recent economic crisis and the upcoming national elections, shall we be seeing more of these? Hmmm.)

Not all the ‘oddventurous’ are masochists, though. Some are power hunters. Whew, powers during Holy Week—like fruitcake on Valentine’s Day?!

Um, hello, this is Pinas! We have kababayans who used to endure climbing Mounts Banahaw and Cristobal (before they were closed for conservation and restoration in 2004) for their powers — miracles for the sick believer and magic for the amulet seeker.

Mount Banahaw is also called Holy Mountain. So you probably know now

how mystical the air must be up there.

Mount Cristobal, on the other hand, is known simply as the Evil Mountain, a depository of chilling supernatural tales or classic urban legends - take your pick.

Since God is supposed to be dead on Good Friday, all spirits are free to roam the Earth, thus boosting the powers of those elusive anting-antings. So if you want to be invincible or invisible, explore the most dangerous caves for your own anting-anting. And be certain to restore their strength every Good Friday.

But if you’d rather concoct magic potions to heal the naturally ill, lovesick, or voodoo victims, invite yourself to the Witches Festival in Siquijor, the land of healing and sorcery, also on Good Friday.

Watch (en)chanting ‘witches’ form a circle around a cauldron where countless herbs and insects are tossed. Dance to their ritual if you need to. Once the potion is declared “finished,” ask nicely for your share (if you could). Please, not that 1.5-liter bottle; a small container would do. For this event, no need to wear a pointed black hat or ride on a broomstick. Just make sure to stay away from the coldblooded mangkukulams who’ve long been eyeing you.

76 FILIPINISMS

The Annie B (Batobalani) Chronicles

The adventures and misadventures of a ‘not so average’ Pinay trying to make it in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIYAH GASPACHO

Chronicle

29

Wow Philippines!

While updating my Facebook and Friendster accounts, nakita kong bumulaga ang banner ad ng Emirates Airlines: “Fly direct from Dubai to Manila now for as low as AED 2,380!”

Wow, ang mura na ng pamasahe ha?

Samantalang last Christmas eh halos anim na libo ang dapat mong bunuin para lang makakain ng authentic puto-bumbong with matching background of Christmas Carolers habang nasa Simbang Gabi ka ng alas kuwatro ng madaling araw. Not bad na itong promo ng Emirates huh?

Kunsabagay, sa tindi ng krisis ngayon, malamang eh wala na talagang sumusugod dito sa Dubai kumpara noon – kasi nga di ba may Global Economic Cranch???

Mangilan-ilan na nga lang ang mga dabarkads ko ngayon kasi most of them were cashualtis of this on-going-onworldwide-financial-meltdown-crisis – andaming natanggal sa kanilang mga trabaho at mga napilitan na lang magsiuwi. Lalo ko tuloy gustong umuwi sa atin para lang maka-chika ang mga sinawimpalad kong mga friends. Siguro miski ganun ang nangyari sa kanila eh masaya pa rin sila ngayon – kasi nasa

Pilipinas na sila eh. Pero teka muna, pano kung magbakasyon nga ako… baka naman pagbalik ko dito eh wala na akong datnan na trabaho. Alam mo na naman ang panahon ngayon - you can never can’t tell (salamat Ate Vi). Hay naku! Nakakatakoooot - ayokong isipin!

Sige na nga, behave muna ang beauty ko dito. Tsaka na muna ang sipping the piñacolda while listening to my iPod while sunbathing in Bora… Aanhin ko naman ang ganitong projection kung wala naman akong hanapbuhay at pambayad sa tuition ng mga pamangkin ko at pang-madyong at pang-tong its nina Nanay at Tatay?!!! Afraid…

So habang isa-isa kong vini-view sa Facebook ang mga cool summer pictures ng mga dati kong officemates sa Pilipinas, magbabalik-tanaw na lang ako sa mga unforgettable vacation memories ko - pre-digital camera days. Dahil miski hindi naka-upload sa internet tong mga litratong ito ay forever namang nakaukit sa aking alaala ang mga masasayang gimmick na ito: Boracay ! The ultimate summer place to see and be seen – madaming artista at mga papable lalo na kapag Holy Week, rampa from Station 1 to 3, walang humpay na

tomaan sa Cocomangas Bar, Hey Jude! at Aria, shopping at lafang sa D’Mall, rides sa Jetski, Banana Boat at Fly Fish.

Ingats lang sa mga kakumpitensiyang mga tarsiers, dikya at Viva Hot Babes.

Nakakatuwang isipin na miski 3 to 5 days ka lang sa Boracay eh isang buwan na preparation para sa outfits at pagpapasexy ang ginagawa para lang perfect ang bakasyon dito!

Baguio City at Banaue! The undisputed summer capital of the Philippines. Saan pa ba tumatakbo ang mga utaw kapag lumalampas na ng 32 degrees celcius ang weather? Miski overcrowded pa hindi pa rin papapigil ang mga bakasyunista to go canoeing at Burnham Park, ang mag-hot chocolate sa Café By The Ruins, ang makipag-posing while kodakan with the overly enterprising Igorots sa Mines View Park, at syempre ang mag-Disco dancing sa Spirits at mamili ng souvenirs at pasalubong na strawberries at fresh vegetables sa Wet Market at mag-hakot ng peanut brittle at strawberry jams sa Good Shepherd. Tapos, why not commute with nature sa Banaue rice terraces – ahhh the cold mountain breeze – there’s always an excuse para um-outfit! Aminin nyo miski ilang ulit kayong magpa-balik-balik sa bundok eh uulit-ulitin nyo pa rin all

FILIPINISMS 77

the time ang mga activities na mga yun?

Baket? Ang sarap eh!

Tagaytay! Isang mabilis na gimmickan from Metro Manila….ilang minuto lang eh kakaiba na ang projection mo sa ganda ng tanawin at weather dito - at sa dami ng lalafangan! Kodakan sa Taal Lake, dining at Josephines, Leslie’s, Rojonet, Mushroom Burger, Antonio’s, Sonia’s Garden, funtimes sa Picnic Grove, tapos paguwi, stopover sa Enchanted Kingdom! Maasahan talaga lagi ang Tagaytay sa lapit nito sa Maynila.

Puerto Galera! Kapag Holy Week at instant public holiday – at wala kang budget mag-Boracay, dito sa White Beach matatagpuan ang kalahati ng mga gumigimmick sa Maynila. It’s hard not to recognize a familiar face here lalo na kapag madalas ka sa Malate at Makati tumambay – dahil nandito rin sila during these days. Sobra kasing reasonable at budget friendly ang bakasyon sa Puerto Galera. Ilang oras lang mula sa Batangas Pier eh nasa bonggang beach ka na – at punong-puno rin ng projection ang buong lugar.

Laguna! Kung ang Puerto Galera eh puntahan ng mga hindi makapag-Boracay,

ito namang Laguna ang sinusugod ng mga hindi makapag-beach. Pero bongga dito kasi nga malapit na sa Manila, nakaka-relaks pa ang maraming resorts na umaapir pa mula sa bulubunduking Mariang Makiling. At pramis, masarap magtampisaw sa Pansol, Villa Escudero at Pagsanjan, atbp. Kung gusto mo naman ng very romantic place to be – go ka sa Caliraya. Imagine the “teenage-movieness” idea of sleeping in a tent overnight while barbequing on a bonfire with your crush? Pang Close Up moment! Kaya ako ang style ko lagi, miski kumpleto ako sa baong gamit, kunyari wala akong dalang tent, para i-iinvite ako nung crush ko to share his tent with him… Aaayyyy kakakilig di ba? Pero so far wala pa nag-iinvite sa akin eh na boylets eh – puro mga friends ko na gurlash ang nagiging concerned sa aken… hmp! Di bale mangyayari din ito soon. Next time bukod sa tent na may AC eh magdadala din ako ng TV, DVD, Playstation at Foot Spa para ma-excite na makitulog sa tent ko ang mga boys.

Hihihi!

Palawan Now this is the place to be kapag: a. bongga ang budget ng company outing nyo, b. may super rich kang papa na willing mag-splurge for a quickie holiday, c. willing kang ubusin ang 13th month

pay mo for an unforgettable vacation experience. Ako I went for option c, kasi ilang beses ko nang nababasa sa magazines ang mga waging reviews ditto.

I’m talking about the buena Northern Palawan experience – the areas of Cuyo, Busuanga and Coron in the Philippines’ largest island. Safe, pollution free and paradise-like! Tulad ng Paris na walang ka-paris, Palawan is one of the most romantic places in the world. Kumbaga ang Boracay is pang-dabarkads, itong Palawan is pang-pulotgata. Sa sobrang dreamy at saksakan ng ganda ng beaches, bongga ng services ng mga resorts at sarap ng pagkain, hindi pwedeng hindi ka bumigay sa tindi ng effect ng paraisong ito. Madugo man (mahal, mahalia Jackson, Mahalia Fuentes, anu pa ba?) eh sulit na sulit ang bawat piso mo (in Amanpulo’s case, it’s dollars, honey!) sa bawat sarap at ligaya na ma-eexperience mo. The most perfect place for diving and snorkeling – ipaglalaban ko ng patayan ang lugar na ito kumpara sa ibang world-class kuning na beach destinations – ay talaga! Pramis, kapag ikinasal ako dito ako magha-honeymoon.

Hindi na stuffed toy ang katabi ko sa gabi next time!

Cebu! Kapag nagpungta ka dito, you’d

78 FILIPINISMS

know why is it’s called the Queen of the South. Bukod sa ang gaganda din ng beaches, ang dami ng mga naggwagwapuhang mga fafa - talagang magaganda ang mga Cebuano. At ang lafang? Hindi ka makakatanggi sa Lechon De Leche, at mag-food trip sa Larsian Fuente Osmeña at Sutukil (Sugba, Tinola, Kinilaw or grill, stew and eat raw).

Kapag paalis ka na ng Cebu, syempre hindi pwedeng kalimutan magmakyaw ng pasalubong like Dried Mangoes, Danggit, Chicaron at Broas – samahan mo pa ng gitara kung carry mo.

Kapag bakasyon din, madami ring fiesta ang nagaganap. Alam mo naman tayong mga Pinoy, lahat na yata ng okasyon iniimbento para magka-fiesta. Mga ultimate party people talaga tayo. May Feast of the Holy Child, Fiesta sa Nayon, Feast of St. Joseph, pati Feast of the Brown Carabao yata meron - basta magkaroon lang ng dahilan upang magsama-sama, magluto at magkainan, go! At syempre isa pa sa mga inaabangan kapag may mga Town Fiesta eh yung mga Battle of the Bands – hindi yung pang rocker – kundi yung old fashioned drums and buggle orchestra whatever! Iyun bang may mga nagbibidang majorette na nagapapaikotikot ng mga baton at nagsisipag-sirkuhan

habang umiindak sa tugtog ng banda nila. Kareer di ba? Sa gabi naman ay may palabas na variety show sa plaza – may mga artista na palaos na, or yung iba eh talaga naman never sumikat pero may ilusyon silang dudumugin sila ng fans, at mga sikat na artista ding mahilig lang rumaket sa mga ganitong events. Dito ko naalala na napanood ang Porkchop Duo, sina Tarzan at Baby Jane, at ang cast noon ng That’s Entertainment (Wednesday Edition led by Tina Paner and Cris Villanueva to names just some fews, ehem, nosebleed?) noong highschool pa lang ako sa bayan namin sa Orion, Bataan. Ang saya saya! (Sabay tulo ng luha mula sa kaliwang mata.)

Ayan, na-homesick na tuloy ako! Kasi naman eh! Sana napunta na lang sa akin ang powers ni Hiro Nakamura para pwede rin akong makapag-teleport anytime. Gosh, miss ko na Pinas! Pero hindi pa ako ready i-give up ang comforts of my life here in Dubai. Blessing pa rin ito eh. Alam ko na! Para mawala itong feeling ko eh kakaladkarin ko na lang ang mga flatmates ko mamaya na manood ng latest movie ni Papa John Lloyd sa Al Ghurair at ililibre ko na lang sila ng halohalo sa Chowking pagkatapos. Ayos?

Dizzizit!

Crèche

Nursery 1

Nursery 2

Nursery 3

Nursery 4

Education as a Growth Experience Education is a process of growth, and as Dr. Maria Montessori theorized and proved – children learn by doing. With these principles and a proven system of guided activity, DLSM gives young children the opportunity to develop and master basic skills and learn desired values and attitudes, by being pro-active participants of the learning experience.

Together with the traditional pillars of basic education – reading, writing, science and math, DLSM gives equal importance to arts, culture, and social activities recognizing children’s potential for knowledge and creativity, and giving importance to their individuality. A ‘well-rounded’ orientation makes education a truly interesting and enjoyable journey of discovery for the very young

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• AESA - well known for customized full package “ALL IN” rates for export vehicles both commercial and personal under OFW category to the Philippines • AESA - specialized in moving containerized shipments of household goods/personal effects to the Philippines • AESA - also handles foodstuff, fresh and frozen fruits (perishables) and condiments from the Philippines to the UAE • AESA has team of professional, dedicated, efficient and, most of all, experienced personnel ready to provide solutions to any of your freighting requirements worldwide.

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May tatakbuhan ka ba sa panahon ng matinding pangangailangan?

Kabayan, sa panahon ng hindi inaasahang kagipitan tulad ng aksidente, malaking operasyon, pinsala dahil sa anu mang emergency gaya ng sunog at iba pang “acts of nature” – may mahihingan ka ba ng tulong? At sa tagal ng pinagtrabaho mo dito sa ibang bansa, ikaw ba ay may insurance coverage na nakalaan kung anu’t ano man ang mangyari?

SUMALI SA FILEX Ang foundation na binuo upang makapaglikom ng pondo para makatulong sa mga Filipino expats sa UAE sa panahon ng matinding pangangailangan.

MAGING MIEMBRO NGAYON Lahat ng mga Filipino dito sa UAE – 18 years old and above, ay maaring sumali sa Filex. Membership Fees: 1 YEAR MEMBERSHIP - AED10 contribution plus AED15 para sa annual insurance, or LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP – AED 30 plus AED15 taon-taon para sa annual insurance coverage.

MGA BENEPISYO Ang mga miembro ng Filex na nakapagbayad ng katumbas ng 3 minimum contributions (o lifetime membership) ay maaring tumanggap ng tulong na financial mula sa foundation base sa pagsusuri at angkop na pasya ng Filex Board. Ang financial aid facility ay magsisimula sa June 2009.

Lahat ng mga miembro ng Filex na may valid UAE residence visa at nagbayad ng karampatang insurance fee (AED 15 per year) ay magkakaroon ng annual insurance coverage na may kasamang accidental death, total disability, medical and repatriation of remains to the Philippines. Ang lahat ay makakatanggap ng angkop na insurance certificates.

Maging miyembro na ng FILEX ngayon.

Mga kabayan,atin ito.

MEMBERSHIP & INQUIRIES Upang sumali, tumawag sa Membership Committee headed by Isabel Warren ng Dubai (call Raffy at 04-3417964) and co-chaired by Fred Camba ng Abu Dhabi (call Myrna at 050 5610489).

Para sa iba pang mga detalye, katanungan at verification, maari ring tumawag sa mga FILEX Executive Directors: Rene Mallo : 050 641 0718 Al Ruwais, Kent Amores : 0559954397 Abu Dhabi, Thesma Talinga : 0506935411 Al Ain, Gina T. Salazar : 0506527041 Dubai, Justino Arciga : 0506967001 Sharjah, Ronnie Bonifacio : 0501901343 Fujairah, Maria Luisa ‘ Mar’ Catu: 0506271599 Ras Al Khaimah, Augusto S. Marcia l: 0508618734 Umm Al Quwain Visit our website: www.filexpat.org or e-mail to:filex@filexpat.org Ang FILEX ay isang non-stock non-profit corporation na rehistrado sa Philippines Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)

FILIPINO EXPATRIATES IN UAE FOUNDATION INC. S.E.C. Company Registration No. CN200809554 Under the Auspices of the Philippine Embassy Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Hotline No.: +971-50-181-5129