ILLUSTRADO Magazine April 2015

APRIL-MAY 2015

ISSUE

95

CHAMPIONING THE WORLD CLASS FILIPINO

BORA ON MY MIND

MUSINGS ON EVERYONE’S FAVORITE LITTLE ISLAND

TRAVELING WITH MONEY DO IT THE SMART AND SAFE WAY!

VAULT #BeautifulPhilippines

HEY BEAUTIFUL ON MEETING THE PHILIPPINES

YOU AND THE LAW

PHILIPPINE LAWS THAT AFFECT THE OVERSEAS FILIPINO

REVOLUTIONARY

THE NEW BREED OF FILIPINOS REDEFINING THE FASHION LANDSCAPE

PHOTOGRAPHY by EROS GOZE

EDITOR’S NOTE

Each time we publish an issue on Beautiful Philippines, it’s like uncovering a treasure throve of riches that just keeps springing surprises after surprises.

Whereas other countries are identified with a single homogenous geographical feature, our country basks in marvelous diversity on both natural and manmade wonders.

Yes we are known for our amazing beaches, but step beyond the soft pristine white sands and you will see that the homeland is blessed with astonishing resources on land, in water, with flora and fauna. We have majestic mountains, awe-inspiring volcanoes, towering karst formations, a desert in Northern Luzon, luxuriant tropical forests, verdant rolling plains, calm seas, raging white water rivers, crystal clear lakes, thundering waterfalls as well as challenging waves for surfing. We have abundant plant and animal life, as well as one of the most diverse ecosystems under water that plays host to over 1,000 species – some of which

Beautiful Philippines are endangered. We have incredible feats by both man and Mother Nature carved above and beneath terra firma.

In this issue, we are also highlighting another kind of treasure - the other angle to “beautiful Philippines,” as we feature the diverse faces of Filipinos making a mark on the runways of New York and around the world.

Each edition of Beautiful Philippines that we publish comes with an invitation and a promise – Come visit our beautiful country and get to know our people, because there is nothing like us in the whole world.

Taas Noo, Filipino!

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

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CHAMPIONING THE WORLD CLASS FILIPINO

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CONTRIBUTORS

ALFRED “KRIP” A. YUSON Esteemed writer Krip Yuson has earned distinctions as a literary author of over 20 other books — from poetry, short stories, children’s stories, biographies, and translation. A Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature Hall-of-Famer, Krip regales us with his musings in his column, “Illuminati.”

ABY YAP Aby’s Onli in da Pilipins column touches on stories celebrating the exciting uniqueness, the sheer honesty and humor, of Pinoy culture. Aby captures Pinoy way of life so well that everyone can relate to her column or at least see one of your relatives among them! In this issue, Aby writes about the types of Pinoy travellers you meet along the way.

BARNEY ALMAZAR, ESQ Atty.

Barney is a director at the Commercial Department of Gulf Law in the Middle East, Philippines and United Kingdom. He holds Juris Doctor and MBA dual degrees with concentration on International Business and European Union Law (University of London). He is a partner at Avanti Gulf, a recruitment company with access to 400 firms and 16,000 recruiters across six continents.

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FRANCISCO COLAYCO Resident personal finance guru Francisco J. Colayco and Illustrado’s Money columnist has several best-selling books to his credit, and an advocacy on teaching Filipinos how to prosper. In his column this month, he tackles how to keep your money safe while travelling

NICHOLO JALLORES Nicholo Jallores is an advertising account executive, writer, singer, dancer, cardio junkie and a wannabe theoretical physicist. When he was young, his grandmother convinced him that anything is possible, and gullible child that he was he believed her. He engraved that mindset so deeply on the core of his being that now he walks around the city thinking that he can be anything and everything — a dangerous man. He eats his steak rare and mooing, because he believes that if one wants to have the best things in life, he must not be afraid of tasting a bit of blood in his mouth.

RAEN BADUA Raen Badua is a Filipino-American fashion photographer and graphic designer currently based in New York City. After serving the US Army for six years, he decided to pursue graphic design at the International Academy of Design & Technology in Las Vegas, Nevada. Though he was studying graphic design, he knew photography was his first love and incorporated most of his projects with his own photography – most recently with fashion as his favorite subject. Raen currently works in Manhattan for Hearst Magazines’ Studio D and for Z!NK Magazine. Raen shoots this month’s fashion editorial – featuring Filipino models making their mark in the NYC fashion scene.

AMBASSADOR GRACE RELUCIOPRINCESA Career diplomat, doting mother of five and servant leader, Ambassador Grace Princesa is the first female Philippine Ambassador to the UAE. Having spent over two decades in Philippine Foreign Services, she had previous postings in Chicago, Cairo, Geneva and Baghdad. This month, Ambassador Princesa takes us through a stroll aroind the Phils.

KRISTINE ABANTE Dubai-based Kristine Abante calls herself an analog girl in a digital world. A struggling writer in the guise of a corporate executive, she believes in seven impossible things before breakfast and in silly things like peace, love and understanding. A cat person and fan of social media, she spends a little too much time in the internet. In this issue, Kristine delves on how foreigners feel about the Phils after visiting our fair shores.

EXCEL DYQUIANCO Excel Dyquianco is both a vagabond and a writer. He has tackled all sorts of topics for illustrado including planning for the future (which included getting a memorial plan) and travel tips. Takes us around Bohol in yhis issue.

CHAMPIONING THE WORLD CLASS FILIPINO

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lalaine Chu-Benitez CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mon Benitez ASSOCIATE EDITOR Ana Santos COLUMNISTS Aby Yap Alfred “Krip” Yuson Barney Almazar Bo Sanchez Francisco Colayco CONTRIBUTING WRITERS – UAE, Mary Ann “Maps” PHILIPPINES, CANADA Santos SWITZERLAND Nephele Kirong Angela Mapa Nikka Sarthou Anna Oposa Nina Terol-Zialcita Barbara Marchadesch P.A. Escalante Candice Lopez Quimpo Princes Nedamo Dante Gagelonia Quay Evano Didi Paterno Rache Hernandez Excel Dyquianco Regina Layug-Lucero Kara Santos Mary Ann Marchadesch Sherry Tenorio Sonny Guzman CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS –UAE, PHILIPPINES & USA Eros Goze Alex Calueng Glenn Peter-Perez Cristina Linaza Dr. Marlon Pecjo Donald Rosales Raen Badua Irvin Rivera CONTRIBUTING FASHION CREW - UAE Ginno Alducente Jessie Tabla Jojo Padua PUBLISHER – UAE Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC 2nd Floor, Building 2, Dubai Media City United Arab Emirates P.O. Box 72280 Office 20C Tel: +971 4 365 4543, 365 4547 Fax: +971 4 360 4771 E-mail: admin@illustrado.net Web: illustradolife.com, illustrado.net Facebook: Illustrado Magazine Twitter: Illustrado Magazine PRINTERS Printwell Printing LLC P.O. Box 18828 Dubai, UAE STOCK IMAGES Shutterstock.com (Unless otherwise specified) Copyright Illustrado Communications FZLLC 2006 – 2015 All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Illustrado Communications FZ-LLC.

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APRIL 2015 CONTENTS

The bold new face of Beautiful Philippines – Illustrado looks into the gorgeous creatures that grace the runways of New York and other parts of the world in this issue’s main feature shot by Raen Pelagio Badua in NYC.

features How I Met the Philippines 10 La Liga Filipina 18 Travel the Philippines 67 Palawan 69 Manila 71 Tagaytay 73 Ilocos 75 Baguio 77 Boracay 79 Cebu 81 Bohol 83 Davao 87

columns Editor’s Note 1 Talking Loud 2 Contributors 4 Illuminati – When in Boracay 6 Bayanihan Corner – A Walk Through Paradise 8 News: Clarita de Quiroz’s Album Release 16 Illustrado Scrapbook 41 Community – PBC Abu Dhabi Ladies’ Event 48 Law: Phil. Laws Affecting OFs 54 It’s What I Do 56 Trippin’: 10 Things To Do 59 Money: Travelling Financially Safe 62 Community – Phil Basketball Tournaments 64 On the Prowl, In the Know 89 Onli in Da Pilipins: 10 Types of Pinoy Travelers 91

fashion Illustrado Runway - FFWD – Ezra 44 Illustrado Runway – FFWD – Amato 46 Mirage Noir 50

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ILLUMINATI

When in Boracay…

By Krip Yuson

Sure, the first attraction is the incomparable beach, where you may romp on the powder-finest white sand in the country, wade out to the gentle surf that comes with clear, chartreuse waters in the best of seasons, or just lay back and bathe in the sun while taking it all in: You’re on fabled White Beach where paradise mongers from all over the world parade the whole day, especially when another photo-happy sunset dramatically unfolds its wondrous spectacle.

alleys. Gone is the vintage excitement of seeing White Beach draw close when you used to disembark right on the sand, backpacks or heavy luggage and all.

But then Boracay changes, faster and faster, not always for the better. It becomes a question of when the tipping point is reached. Already, an online petition has been mounted to save one particular (yet unfrequented) beach and the tropical forest that backdrops it. Friends of the Flying Foxes has been mounting a campaign for the preservation of Puka Shell Beach and the Yapak forest which has been the habitat of flying foxes, or fruit bats, that even cross over to the Aklan mainland for its seed germination habits.

Or you can join this procession, walk from end to end, from the southern extremity lorded over

by Asya Premier Resort with its rocky crags— so private since not too many beachcombers take the trouble of reaching it — all the way northwards past the Of the three species, one is broad expanse of sand fronting endangered: the endemic other top-of-the-line resorts such golden-crowned flying fox as Discovery, near where the (Aceradon jubatus). This we outcropping grotto is an offshore learned only recently, on an early Steve’s Cliff at Boracay Terraces Resort feature, to the very end of White summer break on the island. At Beach that is Boracay Terraces Resort, a pioneer, and even Boracay Terraces Resort, now run by the family of our dear past that to the smaller Diniwid Beach, where Nami Resort departed friend Steve Tajanlangit, drink concoctions honor offers cliffside lodging and massage-with-a-view. the crusade for the flying foxes, with part of the proceeds Then you would have covered the former drop-off points by supporting the advocacy led by Lara Tajanlangit Buenaventura, banca from Caticlan in the mainland, from the southern end’s eldest daughter.

Station 3 to well past Station 1. These days, those terms seem We had also come in time for the inaguration of Steve’s Cliff, only to refer to certain unbounded areas, since ingress to any an extension of the resort’s 7,107 Islands resto-bar. The area, lodging destination is done by tricycle, multi-cab or van from a series of well-shaded niches and terrace ensconced among the main jetty port where the Caticlan ferry crossing ends. You cliff rocks, used to be Steve’s favorite work and lounge area. do it by the back way, through a jumble of narrow streets and

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ILLUMINATI That day, several chefs from Boracay’s top restos paid tribute by coming up with an array of cocktail appetizers. Most memorable was the bacon-wrapped prawns by Sonny de Ocampo, Pinoy, Aussie-schooled in the kitchen, and now the master chef behind Wahine and a few other island eateries.

A new discovery over that weekend was Los Indios Bravos, namesake of the celebrated café in Malate of the late 1960s, frequented by bohemian artists, writers, and the culturati. Just a bit out of the way, towards Bulabog Beach where 7 Stones Boracay Suites is located, the gastropub has attracted a good

Dos Mestizos (on Remedios Street, or where the police station stands, by Station 2) has been such a success story that Binggoy has been asked to open another Spanish resto, this time at Fairways & Bluewater. Named Rojo, the venue is for formal dining, with red tablecloths establishing the theme.

Here he has more liberty to experiment with Spanish fare.

Much as he is averse to serving “fusion” dishes, the offerings are different from those at Dos Mestizos, from the ensaladas, sopas y potajes, curados y quesos, to dishes “From the Grill”: black angus beef tenderloin or beef ribeye, herbed grilled chicken breast, and grilled seafood platter. Also in the menu are his regular tapas and paella valenciana, then the following special entreés: duck leg confit, beef ragu, braised lamb, fillet of salmon, and langostinos alli olio.

So when in Boracay, make sure to join Binggoy Remedios’ increasingly expanding clientele. It certainly makes an island visit even more memorable.

Oh, and there’s another new feature we learned about last March. Off Caticlan in the town of Malay is Barangay Nabaoy, which hosts the Motag Living Museum — an enchanting immersion into farm life, from romping with carabaos in muddy rice fields to engaging with children in rural play and women weaving baskets and toys.

Paela at Dos Mestizos

clientele in only four months since it opened. We happened to meet with one of the partners behind it, Tantan Rosal, who had initially been a scuba expert before he spun off into culinary enterpreneurship.

Speaking of Boracay’s culinary attractions, none has been as steadfast as Dos Mestizos, long acclaimed as arguably the island’s best resto. Run by Bora pioneer Binggoy Remedios, it has steadily gained a loyal following through word-ofmouth-and-blog recommendations since he opened it nearly a decade ago.

Binggoy’s a been-there-done-that kind of guy, ranging from Mindanao to the Visayas in his youthful years, as well as California, where he recalls having stepped in once into an unpretentious but quality eatery billed as Two Boys from Italy. That experience served as the inspiration behind Dos Mestizos, which he established with a partner who has since passed away.

Set up by Barangay Captain Nenette Aguirre Graf, with British lady Louise serving as an articulate guide, the tour can take two to three fascinating hours. It has become popular with city folk and foreigners visting Kalibo and Boracay.

A stone’s throw is Finca Verde, a wellness spa that’s also in a farm setting, with a pristine stream runing right through it. This is where Binggoy Remedios and his wife Nina and daughter Chabeli have made a home, only half an hour’s commute to Boracay. Here the food they serve come mostly from their own herb garden.

For now the four available native huts are reserved for friends.

But they’ll soon open it to other guests, for yet another experience to savor, when in Boracay.

Given histisoy-bisoy lineage, Binggoy is much at home with Spanish comfort food, which he proudly calls classical dishes.

Saturdays are Tapas Buffet nights, with an array of exquisite offerings.

That weekend, we had a hearty selection of liver paté, pasta with bacon mushroom and arugula, mejillones frijos (mussels), pulpo gallega (octopus), spicy chorizo, calamares rellenos en su tinta, gambas con piña, albondigas, almejas con pesto (clams), pescado escabeche… Seafood galore, indeed, enough for gustatory satiety. Yet we still had Binggoy’s popular Paella Marinara and Paella Negra, as well as Callos and Salpicao, to fill us up further, washed down with his famous sangria.

Albondigas or Spanish meatballs with green beans at Binggoy Remedios’ popular Tapas Buffet

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BAYANIHAN

A Walk Through Endangered Paradise

By Ambassador Grace Relucio-Princesa

I

It is Philippine month at this illustrious magazine – a good opportunity to remind Filipinos and friends of Filipinos why we are called the Pearl of the Orient Seas.

Let’s start from the northern part of Luzon in this beautiful archipelago of 7,107 islands. I have been to Calayan, Cagayan, where I enjoyed pristine beaches and large coconut crabs. What I still need to visit is Batanes.

Baguio City is the summer capital of the Philippines, enticing the citizenry and visitors to cool off during the hot months in our country. I have yet to watch the famous Panagbenga Festival featuring a parade of roses every February.

I was born in Ligao, Albay, the southeastern part of Luzon. It is where the majestic Mayon volcano, or “Daragang Magayon” ( beautiful lady) - the most perfect cone- shaped volcano in the world, was and is, a constant presence during my growth and now adulthood. It never fails to awe me and the many visitors that gaze at it during its pyroclastic episodes, or even during its calm moments.

Interacting with the butanding (the largest fish in the world) in Donsol, Sorsogon together with my family was our millennium (pre- 2000) New Year experience. It was exciting! Last year, I visited for the first time Bulan, Sorsogon - the gateway to Masbate, our “rodeo” province.

Until now, Puerto Galera is a must visit site, as is The Farm at San Benito in Lipa, Batangas. The Puerto Princesa natural wonder caves should be one of my priority trips once I am reassigned back to the Philippines this year.

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Cebu continues to wow as a tourist attraction in the Visayas region. Bohol, with its Chocolate Hills, the tarsier and bee products is a favorite destination. Camiguin, with its cold and hot water springs, is a pretty island province. Dumaguete City, a university place, with its ancient trees, charms the visitors as does Siquijor.

My first travel around the Philippines in 1977 as part of my first work brought me to Mindanao - the food basket of the Philippines. Dadiangas which has now become General Santos City, the birth place of Filipino boxing icon Congressman Manny Pacquiao, was our first stop then.

The last time I was in Davao City in 2009, I almost got my right arm ripped off by a monkey eating eagle who did not want it inside its cage.

Cotabato City seems to be a mist in my memory. That‘s how long it has been since I was there. Marawi City and the MSU ( Mindanao State University ) is a treat that I am looking forward to. I visited Zamboanga City more than once. On my first trip there, I was able to take a plane to Jolo where I had my fill of durian and lanzones fruits. A family friend who hails from Basilan has promised that as soon as it is practicable, we can visit her home town.

I have walked us from the north to the south of the Philippines.

It is as beautiful then and now.

Let me end only with a question on why on the 1st of April, the official start of summer in the Philippines, a super typhoon was announced to be approaching. It was out of season and is a reason for us to think of possibly climate change threatening our paradise as it does other countries.

FEATURE

How I Met the Philippines Foreigners share their first impression of beautiful Philippines

By Kristine Abante

I

f the Philippines were a candidate at a beauty pageant, she would easily win Ms. Congeniality. Warm, witty and welcoming, it’s not surprising that most people who have met her for the first time would take on easily to her charms.

most likely walk barefoot or in summer sandals.

Perhaps she is not as glamorous as France, or prim and proper like Britain, maybe not as straightforward as America, and not as quirky and complicated like Japan. She is definitely far from the well-behaved and put-together Singapore, in fact Manila could just be her messy hair. Forget stilettos, she will

To the uninformed, she might seem rather typical, and if you are not paying attention she might skip your radar, but for the brave and the adventurous soul she can be everything you ever wanted and more.

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Maybe she’s a little bit like Thailand or Indonesia, but one could argue that her beaches are way prettier, her laughter more infectious. But like all women, you need to be careful around her too. Consider yourself warned.

FEATURE

In this issue, we ask our foreign friends from around the world about their first impressions of the Philippines.

Javier Beltran - Spain Why did you decide to go to the Philippines?

I was travelling around South East Asia back in March 2012, but I was looking forward to go out of the well-beaten path. I heard a lot of good things about the Philippines and I had a feeling that I will find some special adventure in your country, and I did!

When did you go? Which places did you visit?

I came in March 2012 and stayed for 3 months. I got to explore Banaue, Manila, Boracay, Cebu Mindoro, Negros and Palawan. My favorites are El Nido in Palawan, and the magnificent Banaue Rice terraces. The Pinoys’ sense of humor and hospitality also totally won me over.

What was your most memorable experience?

I will never forget trekking around Banaue, reaching the village during the day and getting a warm welcome from all the kids while their parents worked in the rice fields.

I also got sick during trip. I got Pneumonia while I was in Boracay so I had to be transported by a helicopter to a main hospital in Manila. This bad experience turns to be another unforgettable episode, as I received help and attention from everyone. The country did not have the best health care facilities, but the people definitely did their best to take care of me.

I’m still in touch with friends I’ve made over there. I like talking to them, they’re kind-hearted, happy people and it brightens my mood whenever I chat with them.

I’ve travelled quite a lot in Asia and for me a country is defined by its nature and its people so by that standards, I can say Philippines is paradise on earth!

FEATURE other travelers talking about it. In the Netherlands it is not a very well known destination just yet. The main thing that excited me was that apparently the people were all genuinely nice and happy, that turned out to be very true. Of course it helped that everybody spoke English.

Besides the people, I LOVED the nature, especially underwater and I don’t even dive. Snorkeling is one of my favorite things to do and there was so much to see! I saw the magnificent Whale sharks, but also a great underwater view of fish, coral, starfish, snakes etc.

What were your most memorable experiences?

Arnold Evertse Netherlands When did you visit the Philippines? Which places did you go?

I came to the Philippines in June 2014 with my then fiancé and now wife, Lourds. We went to San Pablo City, Laguna to meet her family and then she showed me around.

We went to Villa Escudero in Quezon, Tagaytay, Palawan, Greenbelt Makati and Resorts World Manila. I enjoyed being in a tropical country that is way different from Holland, I especially loved all the nice beaches.

What were your favorite things ? Your least favorite?

Once I went for a little stroll in Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte and I met so many people. They just walked along with me, chatted about their family, made me ride their bicycle, gave me candy, it was amazing, considering that it was just a 30 minute walk!

People are always willing to help you out, without expecting anything back but a chat and a smile.

I’ll never forget the sheer beauty of its islands, white sand, the blue clear sea, palm trees. It was paradise to me. I loved Malcapuya Island in Coron, Palawan. It was so relaxing and so beautiful. I wish I could live there.

Did you have any bad experience?

Perhaps the only thing that I found challenging was finding a nice simple authentic Filipino restaurant. There are so many fast food joints! Overall I had such a good experience in the Philippines. It’s a wonderful country and I would love to go back to see more of it!

My favorite things would be buko pie and banana cue but don’t count on me eating balut! The only thing I hated was the terrible traffic, but I enjoyed spending time with happy and friendly people. I’m looking forward to our next trip there, now with my family.

Hannah Barrow Netherlands

Giorgios Starvinos Greece What was your first impression of the Philippines?

What did I love about the Philippines? A lot! For instance - the calamansi!

“Oh the Philippines…well before arriving, I was imagining that it would be something like Thailand which is my only other Southeastern Asian experience. I could not be more wrong and I don’t mean this in a negative way.

My curiosity about the Philippines was triggered when I heard

My first visit was last July; I went there with my girlfriend.

What did you love about the Philippines?

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FEATURE We stayed a couple of days in Manila and then off to Iloilo, Capiz and back to Iloilo and Guimaras Island. The weather in July didn’t really help; it was raining all the time, but we still had a terrific time. I was lucky enough to visit and spend time with real Filipino families and I was very impressed by their hospitality and generosity. They shared everything with me even though they did not have much.

What was your most memorable experience?

For me the first most unforgettable experience was the sheer madness that is Manila and seeing millions of people packed like sardines, totally chaotic traffic and super pollution, but to be honest after spending a few days I wasn’t bothered anymore. The city did have some great places and actually had a lot of character. Also, despite my initial fears I never felt any danger even in Ermita.

What did you love about the Philippines?

I met lovely people, and I want to stress that the children are so well mannered and respectful. I was really touched by this as it’s totally different from what applies in Western countries.

Also the parents and especially the women are to be admired.

With little help from anybody they manage to raise their kids to be kind and respectful. No matter how difficult the families make ends meet and all children go to school.

Which places did you enjoy the most?

Boracay was beautiful but I found it to be little touristy for my tastes. I loved Carabao Island that is my idea of an unspoilt paradise; I could live there on very little and enjoy the simple life.

I have many more places to visit in the Philippines, I feel blessed to have “discovered” this country. I love the smiles and friendliness, even the laziness of the Filipinos, it all adds up to a lot of character.

By the way, I loved the cuisine, except I could not bring myself to try the balut! Jasmine my girlfriend had a lot of laughs about this.

What was your least favorite thing?

I would say I am a bit bothered by the lack of ecological conscience; people don’t really pay attention to their garbage.

I suppose being a developing country with a lot of poverty, the environment is not high on people’s priority list, but I feel like they should be more aware especially with such beautiful natural surroundings.

Would you recommend the Philippines to your friends?

I would definitely recommend the country to all my friends.

There’s something for everybody in the country. Lovely Philippines is a place that makes me feel at home and relaxed among good people. My next goal is to try to learn Tagalog!

Paul Donovan USA What made you come to the Philippines?

I dated a girl from the Philippines for some time. I knew that it had excellent beaches and amazing food, but it turned out to be more than that. I had been traveling for about 5 months prior to my visit and it was on my bucket list. The flights were very cheap from Kuala Lumpur to Manila.

When did you visit? Which places did you go?

I visited the Philippines in February, and stayed for almost a month. Manila was my center hub. I mainly relied on night buses, which were quite comfortable from what I was expecting. Travel was very cheap. First, I went north to Banaue.

Visited the 2000 year-old rice terraces, then to Donsol where I saw a cock-fight and swam with whale sharks.

Then from Manila I flew to Puerto Princesa. I explored the very long river through a cave on a day trip and then I took a bus north to El Nido which was like a living postcard.

Everything was so beautiful from the beaches to the wildlife. I then took a ferry to Coron where I went scuba diving in several WW2 Japanese ship-wrecks, after that I flew back to Manila.

What was your most memorable experience?

I would say El Nido was the most magical place I visited there.

It was absolutely breathe-taking the second I arrived and only got better each day. My favorite thing about the Philippines was how friendly everyone was. They were very happy to talk with me and take some photos, and their English was very good.

What was your least favorite?

My least favorite thing would be some of the sanitary issues they have especially in the more remote areas. Cleanliness and clean water weren’t exactly the best.

FEATURE What did you learn from visiting the Philippines?

What was your favorite thing about the country?

What I learned is that I need much more than a month to experience everything the Philippines has to offer. I also didn’t realize how much of an influence the USA and Latin countries have played in the development of the country. There is even an American flag on one of the bills they use.

I can’t get over how beautiful it was and how it had American influence but still Southeast Asian charm. After traveling for so long it felt really good to go someplace that I could somewhat relate to back home. Also I really liked how it wasn’t necessarily geared towards tourism. When I was traveling between places I was always with locals and not just with a bunch of other tourists like in other countries.

Would you consider coming back?

I will definitely come back! I really want to go back to Coron to

What was your least favorite?

My least favorite thing would be the bad traffic, and the long time that it takes to get to places, especially getting to and from the airport. Also, I got cheated on a few times, but overall the Filipino people were extremely nice.

What did you learn from visiting the Philippines?

Being a nurse in the States, I work with a lot of Filipinos so I always knew they spoke English well but I never knew why so after visiting their country I got to see firsthand the culture and the way they live and how much influence there is from other cultures.

do more scuba-diving with the sunken ships. It was absolutely incredible. I’d like to explore more of the remote areas. I felt the less populated the area, the more incredible the people were.

Juliana Tu USA What did you love about the Philippines?

I came to the Philippines for Scuba Diving. I loved all the beautiful beaches and the diving sites were amazing.

Would you consider coming back?

When did you visit the Philippines? Which places did you go?

I would LOVE to go back. I want to go to Bohol, Coron, Apo Island, and Legaspi

I came for a month last October and visited a couple of places - Manila, Banaue, Batad, Sagada, Malapascua, Moalboal, Dumaguete, Bacolod, El Nido andBoracay.

Describe the Philippines in 3 words.

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Breathtaking. Fun. Diverse (as in every island is different and has its own charm and the different landscapes)

FEATURE the moments I share with them, the new places and different culture. The memories I get from my travels are priceless.

Sharing your hometown with Foreigners Christine Consas Bacolod I was in Boracay when I met few travelers and we became instant friends, they wanted to see some festivals. It was October and I was planning to go back home to Bacolod for Masskara Festival. As someone who grew up going to the said festival I became very excited at the thought of showing my newfound friends in my hometown. We took a van from Caticlan to Iloilo.

We stayed one night in Iloilo then a ferry to Bacolod.

As the festival highlights are already on, the traffic was already crazy. Everyone was hungry and so the first place I brought them was the famous Manokan country and I am very proud that they liked Chicken Inasal. Afterall, that is what we were famous for! Then we settle to our rented apartment and the first night was of course the famous street party of Masskara.

As the guide, I brought them to places that are not very expensive. I let them experience where the locals go. I showed them how to party on a masskara!

Ron Dicdiquin Bohol Last September 2014, my friends from Czech Republic Andy and Lukas, and I decided to travel to Philippines. Our main destination was in Bohol because I am from Bohol and I want them to show the hospitality of Boholanos and to explore natural beauty of my province.

I got them to try the amazing seafood by the beach and of course local beer. We walked along the beach with our beers, just lying the fine white sand until midnight. The next days we went for Scuba diving in Panglao Island and Anda - the two main diving areas of Bohol.

Lourds Adalia-Evertse San Pablo I invited my dutch fiancé Arnold to the Philippines before we got married. I wanted him to meet my family and also I wanted him to see my hometown. I was proud of my heritage and I particularly wanted to show him around the places where I grew up.

He enjoyed meeting my family and my friends, we had a blast in San Pablo obviously, we are both avid travelers so I also took him to all the good tourist places such as Tagaytay and Palawan. We enjoyed going through the underground river, it was my first time too, and El Nido was beautiful. We just had a baby, and we’re looking forward to spending Christmas back home this year. I’m sure Arnold will be in for another treat!

Kristine Abante Manila I met my french friend Ced when he was travelling in Dubai where I am currently based. I was interested in Paris and he was interested in the Philippines, so we both planned on visiting each other’s hometowns.

Luckily, I had planned to go on a short vacation home around the same time that he visited the Philippines. I met him in Manila and set a day to explore the city.

I would say I am a semi-tourist as I worked away from home so I took the opportunity to reconnect with my hometown. I showed him around Intramuros, and we both learned a little bit about the history of the Philippines. We went to Binondo, the first ever China Town in the world and I introduced him to the famous Eng Bee Tin hopia. We ate some sisig and drank local beverages in an outdoor bazaar in Makati. Another friend who worked in a 5-star hotel along Manila Bay was kind enough to let us in to watch the incredible sunset in their private area so he also got a taste of swanky Manila.

The most unforgettable experience for me was catching our favorite French band Phoenix live in Manila, of all places! Ced was happy to be there as he never got a chance to see them back in Paris. Talk about great timing!

I am always happy to show people around where I grew up.

I always love to host travelers and backpackers and to show them around whether in Dubai or in Philippines. Being a backpacker myself, I always love to experience new things, new culture, different people and new places. I travelled to different places around the world USA, Canada, Australia, all over Europe and some parts in Asia but traveling around in your home country and showing it to your friends is really different, and one of my favorite things to do.

I always invite my friends to come with me during my vacation and explore the beautiful places in Philippines together. I travel because of the interesting people I meet along the way and

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NEWS

Sony Music Releases Clarita de Quiroz’s First solo album ‘Speak.Delete.

Repeat.’

Dubai-based singer/songwriter and Illustrado Women of Substance, Clarita de Quiroz has just released her first solo album, titled ‘Speak.Delete.Repeat.’, on the 14th April with Sony Music as her label. The hypnotic album with 12 tracks features hit singles, including ‘Blanket of Secrets’, ‘Broken’ and ‘Addicted’.

De Quiroz’s fascinating voice tells stories of recent events in her life, through mesmerizing vocal and piano solo tracks. The UAEborn artist has composed most of the music on the new album and co-written the songs with Dubai-based Scottish singer/ songwriter, Mike Ross, with whom she will be performing as support at the up-coming Paolo Nutini concert at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, April 10th.

“My biggest passion in life is instrumental music. After a year of working on this album, I can say it is a true reflection of myself,” said De Quiroz. “Being in Dubai, with the opportunities it offers, has helped me progress and get this far. I think Dubai

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brings together talented musicians, creative teams and the big music labels. That’s definitely been one of its many successes.”

The album will be available across music stores in the Middle East and globally on all digital service providers. De Quiroz performed a number of tracks during the album’s invite-only launch event on the 12th April at Dubai’s award-winning OKKU restaurant.

A former collaborator with fellow Scot and multiple awardwinner, Emeli Sandé, de Quiroz has previously released an electronic dance album in collaboration with the band ‘SickAsSwans’ in 2012, with the album reaching No. 1 in the UAE. ABOUT CLARITA DE QUIROZ: Clarita de Quiroz was born in Abu Dhabi to Filipino-Spanish and Dutch-Irish parents and has spent the vast majority of her life in Scotland. She is a child of the 80s, although her music doesn’t reflect that. She has been influenced by such a wide variety of artists and genres that pigeon-holing the album has been almost impossible. With influences from all over the musical diaspora, her album has smatterings of Pop, R&B and Soul all glued together with lilting instrumental pieces that echo the piano works of her favorite Classical composers.

Residing in Dubai, she has also made a successful career as an international commercial and beauty model since 2008, and appeared in the feature film, ‘City of Life’ and Dubai Global Tourism Commercials.

Her performances and supporting artist performances include: Sir Elton John, Roger Sanchez, Macy Gray, Kelly Roland, Gabrielle and the Sugababes to name a few.

FASHION

La Liga Filipina

By Nicholo Jallores

Meet the new breed of Filipino reformistas instigating a revolution in global fashion, transcending race barriers, and creating positive cultural change.

You would be hard-pressed to think that models – of all the types of overseas Filipinos – would be at the forefront of revolutionizing the way Filipinos are represented in the global stage, but apparently, they are. They are in the thick of the Revolution, and they got there sans the bloodshed of a boxer, the theatrics of a performer, or the overly choreographed perfection of a beauty queen. Used

to be that to earn any measure of renown as an international Filipino model you would have to fit a visual mold that bordered on racial caricature, but now, the new crop of Filipino models typify an arresting sort of cultural ambiguity. They blur the lines, as opposed to reinforcing them. It’s not about being a South East Asian / Pacific Islander wearing nice clothes and posing; it’s just about modelling, which is exactly as it should be.

Say hello to the league of extraordinary Filipinos in the world of fashion.

PHOTOGRAPHER: RAEN BADUA WARDROBE STYLIST: SLAVA NEMISH MAKEUP ARTIST: ERIC VOSBURG HAIRSTYLIST: JUSTIN ARRELLANO MODELS: ALEXANDER DOMINGUEZ | RED MODEL MANAGEMENT DANICA MAGPANTAY | FORD MODELS FRANCIS ARIOSA | WILHELMINA MODELS NYC PAUL KIEFER | MAJOR MODELS STEPHANIE RETUYA | WILHELMINA MODELS NYC

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ALEXANDER DOMINGUEZ RED MODEL MANAGEMENT

How did you become a model? Did you always want to be one?

What’s the best thing about being an international model? What’s the worst thing about it?

I did not always plan on being a model. After I graduated college I wanted to work in different fields to see what I truly enjoyed doing. After a couple of jobs a photographer from Maryland (Randolph Garret) reached out to me for a photo shoot. I sent out some photos to at least 30 agencies around the world. Finally RED models NY contacted me and gave me the opportunity to enter the fashion industry.

The best thing about being an international model is experiencing and sharing culture. I believe this industry connects people. I don’t see any reason how being an international model is a bad thing.

International models bring diversity to the fashion industry.

Most significant campaigns so far. Which one are you most proud of and why?

I have never found it a hindrance being Filipino. All my life I’ve been proud of my culture and people.

It has been an asset providing me humility in this industry.

I am proud to have worked with a lot of brands so far. It’s hard to say which one is my favorite.

Tell us about your journey to the modelling world in NYC. I started my modeling career in 2014. I was living in Prince George’s county Maryland at the time and was working at the bank. I wasn’t happy with how my life was going so I decided to take a chance and apply to modeling agencies all over the world.

One day RED models contacted me offering a contract. I eventually quit my job and moved to NY. Looking back, I would say it was a mix of luck and determination that lead me to start a modeling career.

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On being Filipino – is being Filipino a hindrance or an asset to a model like you?

What advice can you give to Filipinos aspiring to model internationally?

Do what makes you happy & you can’t win if you don’t play.

If you weren’t a model today, what would you be? Explain why It is hard for me to imagine life not being a model.

All my prior occupations were good for me at the time, but I’ve always ended up disliking it except modeling.

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DANICA MAGPANTAY FORD MODELS

How did you become a model? Did you always want to be one?

What’s the best thing about being an international model? What’s the worst thing about it?

I always wanted to model, I just didn’t think it would happen as fast as it did. I got started when I joined the local Ford Supermodel of The World contest in Philippines.

Diversity in the market. Being able to travel from one city to another, you do realize what the “modeling market” is in each city. Being in New York, there is equal opportunity for everyone to get booked because there are all kinds of different looks that every client is looking for.

Most significant campaigns so far. Which one are you most proud of and why?

Last year’s summer campaign for Aeropostale. It has been one of my dreams since I started modeling to appear on one of the flashy Times Square ads and through that campaign it came true.

Tell us about your journey to the modelling world in NYC. After I won the contest in the Philippines, I was able to go on and compete on the international level and was fortunate enough to win here in New York as well. A week after that I was going to castings for the upcoming fashion week.

With anything you do, you really must have a sound mind and body. I have experienced highs and lows in this career but I am just so blessed that I am surrounded by loving and empowering people who always believe in me. Also, I have God whom I draw my strength and courage from everyday.

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On being Filipino – is being Filipino a hindrance or an asset to a model like you?

Definitely not a hindrance, like I said, there is a diversity of models and you just have to see which ones work for your look - no matter what your race is.

What advice can you give to Filipinos aspiring to model internationally?

Do it. Keep learning about the tricks of the trade and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. And most importantly, always make sure you enjoy doing it!

If you weren’t a model today, what would you be? Explain why?

I’d either be a merchandiser for my own clothing/ accessories store or be a business woman and market and develop products from our family’s organic farm.

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FRANCIS ARIOSA WILHELMINA MODELS NYC

Most significant campaigns so far. Which one are you most proud of and why?

It’s the shoot I did for Michael Cinco. He was the first designer who actually helped me and guided me with modeling, so that campaign means a lot to me.

Tell us about your journey to the modelling world in NYC. Well, it has been a ride with ups and downs, but I just put all my trust in God and believed in my dreams and I know things will happen.

What’s the best thing about being an international model? What’s the worst thing about it?

Being an international model will expose you to the good and bad of modeling, but it will help you grow, be a better person and have a thicker skin.

On being Filipino – is being Filipino a hindrance or an asset to a model like you?

The only hindrance of being a Filipino is getting

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visas every time you travel to places like Europe.

I believe loving yourself for who you are whether you’re a Filipino or not is going to be your best asset in modeling, because being confident with who will take you places.

What advice can you give to Filipinos aspiring to model internationally?

Well, first is believe in yourself. Pray hard. Trust in God and be strong. You will face a lot of hindrances but despite those challenges, it will just make you stronger. Take one step at a time.

If you weren’t a model today, what would you be? Explain why?

A married man with 5 kids. Hahaha! I would have my own bakery in Pagadian city and I would be helping out my dad with our farm. I would be anywhere where my family is.

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PAUL KIEFER MAJOR MODELS

How did you become a model? Did you always want to be one?

I was approached for the first time at a mall in my high school years at Slovakia. I did not decide to give it a try till many years later and many more scout approaches. One of the reasons it took me so long to start was, I never really dreamt of becoming a model and was actually not very interested in compare to what I had going on in my life at that time.

Most significant campaigns so far. Which one are you most proud of and why?

It’s a hard one to answer. The most significant to me was for Iconic shoot I did in Dubai. The reason it was so special to me is, it’s not every day you get to see yourself with a girlfriend on building size billboards.

Now the most fun campaign shoot experience I have to say would be the Adidas shoot near San Francisco. We went from sunny surf beach side to snowmobiling in a blizzard on snowy mountains all in the same day of shooting.

Tell us about your journey to the modelling world in NYC. Not much of a journey to be honest. NYC was my first trip for modeling, and I signed into modeling for the first time in NYC after being flown in. It is where my modeling career first officially started with my management in NYC. Since then, I have just been flying back and forth for work.

What’s the best thing about being an international model? What’s the worst thing about it?

Traveling by far is the best. I honestly would not be doing modeling if I could not continue to travel.

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Now the worst part would have to be the vain side of the industry. I have never been a guy to care too much about how I appeared till I stepped into the modeling world. Fashion and styling my hair was never my thing. But it’s something you just have to eventually get used to.

On being Filipino – is being Filipino a hindrance or an asset to a model like you?

I would say neutral. Never really associated my race with my success or failures. Many people use race as an excuse in life but I say pay it no mind and just do your best. If you failed, then you either went about it wrong or it was just not for you. Modeling is not for everyone. If you are what they are looking for at that moment then that’s all you need. Be in the right place, at the right time, with the right people.

What advice can you give to Filipinos aspiring to model internationally?

Finish school and get ready for 100 no’s before your first yes. Modeling is not all it’s played out to be. We are just normal people.

If you weren’t a model today, what would you be? Explain why?

Actor or entrepreneur. I had a very promising situation in the acting industry laid out on the table for me in Los Angeles before modeling. But I guess I just did not want it that much at that time because I gave it all up to get out of LA in pursuit of something else. If not acting then possibly starting a business. I was in school also at that time for economics before I started modeling.

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STEPHANIE RETUYA WILHELMINA MODELS NYC

How did you become a model? Did you always want to be one?

What’s the best thing about being an international model? What’s the worst thing about it?

I didn’t really aspire to be a model until I tried my first runway show and that’s when I got hooked, it feels amazing to be up there, the adrenaline, walking knowing you are wearing a vision of the designer.

The best thing is the travel, the new people, being exposed to different wonderful cultures and the worst things are missing home and missing your family. It’s not all glutz and glamour. It can be very lonely too.

Most significant campaigns so far. Which one are you most proud of and why?

On being Filipino – is being Filipino a hindrance or an asset to a model like you?

SM Aura Philippines, a Property campaign in Singapore and the Mac Indulge advertorial in Hongkong, I am very proud of these works because of the people I met when I did the job and the outcome of the work itself.

It depends on where you are, I have been discriminated for my race, but in NYC it has been an asset.

Tell us about your journey to the modelling world in NYC. I met my mother agency when I worked with Mannequin in Singapore, after AsNTM ( Asia’s Next Top Model) ended, they helped me travel to Asia first to build my book before I got here in NYC.

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What advice can you give to Filipinos aspiring to model internationally?

Don’t give up and work for it!

If you weren’t a model today, what would you be? Explain why?

A literary writer. That’s what I went to school for and I love to read too but nowadays I am very interested with cooking and food.

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ADVERTORIAL were an amalgamation of the luxe fabrics in simple, basic silhouettes. The season’s hottest trends were interpreted in a way that appeared almost close to nature at an elevated level.

Giordano Welcomes The Avengers

for the first 200 customers in select Giordano stores at the Mall of Emirates, Deira City Centre, Dubai Mall, Mirdiff City Centre, Al Fahidi Corner, Al Sabkha and Sharjah City Centre.

New tie up with Marvel brings favourite superheroes themed shirts to shelves This April, Giordano, the global apparel retailer, officially opens its doors to Iron Man, Captain America, Thor and The Hulk as The Avengers collection arrives in selected stores in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

In line with the release of the highlyanticipated movie Avengers: Age of Ultron which opens in cinemas on April 30, Giordano is offering customers its “Age of Sport Chic” sports line. By incorporating the spirit of the Avengers as well as the quintessence of sport elements into the designs, the collection manifests what sports stands for: courage, sportsmanship and teamwork.

More than just a novelty, the graphic tees are playful and chic. Instilled with elements and symbols of the heroic Avengers, characters like Iron Man, Captain America, Thor and The Hulk come to life on the tees.

As a special treat, members of its loyalty programme World Without Strangers based in Dubai and Sharjah will also get a chance to watch The Avengers: Age of Ultron in a special screening on Friday May 1st at Novo cinema, Mall of Emirates. On purchase of any Marvel merchandise, members will receive one free movie ticket for items bought worth AED 150 and two free movie tickets for a spend of AED 250. The offer is valid

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Members at Giordano stores at Abu Dhabi mall, Al Wahda Mall and Ajman City Centre will receive an extra 10 per cent discount on the purchase of Marvel merchandise.

The Avengers collection will be available at select Giordano stores within the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Other timeless Giordano products are available across all stores in the GCC as well as online at www.giordano-me.com.

Online shopping and delivery are extended to the GCC making Giordano products widely available to customers with the option to pay with a credit card or cash on delivery. ………………………

Splash enters a ‘Brave New World’ It’s a natural desire for the human soul to return to the basic simplicity of life to attain bliss, yet stay connected to a world that that has evolved exponentially. Splash, the high street maven explored that new dimension of the world by paying homage to simplicity and infusing the luxury of fashion that surrounds us. ‘Brave New World’ showcased the Spring Summer’ 15 collection that urged us to go back to where it all started.

While it moves towards the Zen mode, the brand is also incorporating the city landscape and lifestyle into the larger picture. Splash presented pieces that

The breathtaking venue Rooftop Terrace at Jumeirah Emirates Towers was divided into three stunning areas with the guests first being welcomed into the pre-party zone which served them premium refreshments and time to mingle and soak in the décor. The main show area was transformed into a garden which brought out the contrast yet highlighted the way nature and modernity blends in seamlessly.42 models sashayed down the runway in a surreal setthat came to life with the energy from the audience.

The collection presented on the runway will be available from mid-April in store while all the looks from the catwalk are available on www.landmarkshops. com/splash and Facebook.com/

SCRAPBOOK

CYRIL P. MERCADO Kuwait cymercado.wordpress.com instagram.com/cymercado_sp/ flickr.com/photos/cymercado_sp/

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SCRAPBOOK

ARNEL VILLAVICENCIO Saudi Arabia

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SCRAPBOOK

MIZ REYES Kuwait flickr.com/photos/laragway_ epiquo/

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EZRA

Fashion Forward Dubai 10 th April 2015

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AMATO

Fashion Forward Dubai 12 th April 2015

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COMMUNITY

Style Secrets Revealed at PBC Abu Dhabi Ladies’ Event Photos by Adele Maglalang

The Philippine Business Council of Abu Dhabi held a female empowerment-inspired event on the 16th of April. Sponsored by Ayala Land International in cooperation with the Dusit Thani HotelAbu Dhabi, and attended by Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Grace Relucio-Princesa, the event dubbed as Tess Closet opened a window of discussion to help guests feel confident about their fashion by choosing clothes that are right for their body shape, as well as flattering palettes for different skin tones.

Guests were treated to a lovely cocktail reception featuring beautiful arrangements from Peony Flowers as well glamorous desserts and elegant cupcakes from Mimoza. PBC Abu Dhabi Chairman Agnes StottBriggs, an image and style consultant, who believes “when you look good, you feel good”, offered helpful tips and suggestions on what kind of clothes and style would fit certain body shapes. A showcase of elegant banaca (banana fiber) fashion wraps from Dita Sandico Ong’s eco fashion line perked up the venue with bright colors.

Guests were then ushered to the hotel’s Skydome to witness a glittering display of couture from Yen Fashion Design as part of Dusit Thani’s iWed bridal exhibition. The show was hosted by fashion personality Savita Kaye – CEO of London-based Lady K media.

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COMMUNITY

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PHOTOGRAPHER: EROS GOZE FASHION: JUN RICAFORTE FOR DUNE ABAYA

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LAW

Philippine Laws affecting Overseas Filipinos

By Atty. Barney Almazar

Our government treats its people as an export commodity and a means to earn foreign exchange, disregarding the social cost to Filipino families. President Aquino, in his social contract with the Filipino people, committed to transform the government to one that creates jobs at home, so that working abroad will be a choice rather than a necessity, and when its citizen do choose to become OFWs, their welfare and protections will still be the government’s priority.

OF and OFW, explained According to the Commission on Filipinos Overseas, Filipinos who are outside the Philippines are termed “Overseas Filipinos” or “OF” and fall into 3 different categories of migrants: permanent, temporary and irregular.

Fifty percent of OFs are permanent migrants, permanent residents or immigrants in the countries where they live, or are spouses of foreign nationals.

OFW would fall under the second OF category, the temporary migrants whose legal stay abroad is temporary owing to the employment-related nature of their stay in their host country.

OFWs are expected to return to the Philippines following the

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expiration of their employment contracts.

Irregular migrants, the third category, consists of those who are not properly documented, or who are without valid residence or work permits, or who may simply be overstaying workers, tourists, pilgrims or other visitors in a foreign country.

The estimate OF headcount in the UAE per category as of December 2012 is – 1,711 permanent, 722,621 temporary and 207,230 as irregular, totaling 931,562.

Right to travel The Philippine Passport Act of 1996 (Republic Act No. 8239) affirms the inviolability of the constitutional right of every Filipino to travel abroad. The law mandates the State to uphold the integrity and credibility of the Philippine passport.

Thus, the Department of Foreign Affairs has the duty to issue passport or travel document to any citizen of the Philippines who complies with the requirements to Act.

Right to be protected The Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act (Republic Act No. 10022) concretized the government’s commitment

LAW •

creation of the Assistance-toNationals Task Force

•

compulsory insurance coverage for Agency-Hired Workers

Right to vote The Overseas Voting Act of 2013 ensures equal opportunity to all qualified citizens of the Philippines abroad in the exercise of their right to participate in the election of President, Vice-President, Senators and Party-List Representatives.

to protect the rights and to promote the welfare of OF in distress. It also provided the framework for concerted government action in dealing with difficulties faced by Filipinos abroad by: •

•

institutionalization of the Migrant Workers Loan Guarantee Fund and the Legal Assistance Fund establishment of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipino Resource Centers

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issuance of travel advisory/ information dissemination

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establishment of Shared Government Information System for Migration (SGISM)

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establishment of National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO)

Tax Exemption Tax Reform Act of 1997 (Republic Act No. 8424) provides that an individual citizen of the Philippine who is working and deriving income from abroad is taxable only on income derived from sources within the Philippines. Thus, income outside the Philippines earned by an OFW is not subject to Philippine tax.

The Balikbayan Law provided additional benefits to former Filipino citizens, Filipinos who have been continuously out of the Philippines for at least one year and OFW. These benefits include:

•

Filipino Dual Citizens can now also register and vote.

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No more affidavits binding Filipinos to return in 3 years. Under the old law, an immigrant or a permanent resident must execute upon registration an affidavit prepared by the Commission on Elections declaring that he or she “shall resume actual physical permanent residence” in the Philippines not later than three years from approval of his or her registration.

•

travel tax exemption

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visa-free entry to the Philippines for a period of one year for former Filipinos

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duty-free and kabuhayan shopping privilege

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use of accredited transportation facilities that will ensure their safe and convenient trips upon arrival

Special Protection for Women

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entrepreneurial training livelihood skills programs

Anti-Mail Order Bride Act of 1990 (Republic Act 6955) declares as unlawful the acts of profiting from the matching, offering and contracting marriage between Filipino women and foreign nationals. Aside from matching on a mail-order basis, the law prohibits similar practices using advertisement, publication, printing or distribution of brochures, flyers and other propaganda materials.

The law has been enacted to curb trafficking of Filipinos through intercountry marriage.

Republic Act No. 8171 of 1995 provides for the repatriation of Filipinos who have lost their Philippine citizenship by marriage to aliens and natural-born Filipinos, including their minor children, on account of political or economic necessity, to reacquire Philippine citizenship. Women who have lost their citizenship because of marriage may reacquire their citizenship by repatriation.

and

Are OFS truly protected?

The Department of Foreign Affairs reported that the number of OFW facing death penalty cases, most of which are drug-related, has reached a total of 88 as of March this year. On the other hand, victims of human trafficking totaled 1,135 in 2013 from 1,029 in 2012.

An average of 1,600 illegal recruitment cases were handled by Philippine Overseas Employment Administration from 2007 to 2011 indicating that each year, thousands of hopeful Filipinos are victimized by illegal recruiters, while the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration handled an average of more than 50,000 cases on-site annually from 2009 to 2013.

It is unfortunate that despite these laws, the government has not yet genuinely advanced the interest and welfare of the country’s modern day heroes.

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IT’S WHAT I DO

It’s what I do

FILIPINO PROGRESS AND DIVERSITY AT THE WORK PLACE

STEVE PADILLA Architect & Coordinator – Control Contracting & Trading Company Abu Dhabi, UAE My job I am an Architect/Coordinator for one of the oil and gas companies based in Mussafah, Abu Dhabi. As architect and coordinator, sometimes I visit our site/yard to check if the design of barges, cabins and offshore structures are properly followed, meeting with our clients and consultants requirements (NPCC, ADMAOPCO, GPC, Technip, ADGAS etc.). I also make sure that all our design and engineering deliverables are properly coordinated checking all the drawings before submitting them to our client, coordinating with the vendor, draftsman to Discipline Engineer to Project Manager until construction. In my work, I collaborate with a multi-cultural team and professionals from all levels.

My Day I’m just a typical professional with a lot of friends. My day starts with prayers with my wife right after waking up. We start our day thanking God for another day, another exciting day. At the office

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before work, we have some tea first and chat with fellow Filipino staff. After work, I fetch my wife at her workplace just across the street. In the evening we eat together and chat about the day’s events. Then, I do some small household chores to help my wife who is due to give birth in May. My wife prepares our food (breakfast and lunch) and clothes for the next morning.

Thursday is our family day and date day. I always make sure to ask my wife to go out and relax and have fun – even if it’s just a coffee date, sometimes. Friday is our favorite day as we go to church together.

Career and Life Advice My message to my fellow Filipinos is simple. Put God first, enjoy your family, family bonding is very important. If family is lost, then there is no reason in working hard. Be happy for what you have, be humble and work hard even though nobody is looking at you. Enjoy your work. Don’t make enemies at work and try to be friendly and in times of need your fellow staff will be the one to help you. Make friends, a lot of friends and go out with them sometimes. Always smile in the work place. Learn the culture of other nationalities and, at the end, you will earn their trust.

Don’t be afraid to dream high. Don’t be afraid to talk to your boss. Talk to them and learn from them. At the end you will earn their trust as well. If you earned the trust of your officemates and your boss, that means promotions and salary increase. Be wise in saving money. We don’t know until when we will be working in this country. Try to learn the 10 20 70 savings system – 10% for God or whatever your heart wants to give, 20% for savings or much bigger depending on your situation, and 70% for the rest (rent, clothing, shopping gadgets etc.).

IT’S WHAT I DO

It’s what I do

FILIPINO PROGRESS AND DIVERSITY AT THE WORK PLACE

CHRISTIAN MAGADIA

Head Structural Engineer – Ted Jacob Engineering Group, Beca Dubai, UAE My job I am a structural engineer by profession. As a structural engineer I design buildings and infrastructures. I work closely with architects and other engineering professionals in addition to dealing with local authorities and decision makers. We are the mind behind all the magnificent structures and iconic monuments that make up a civilization and our responsibilities include designing comfortable houses for all of us to live in.

One of the most remarkable events in my career was when I passed the chartered structural engineering examination given by the Institution of Structural Engineers in the UK. Having a degree not recognized in the UK, I had to write a full technical report to

until I have a daily catch up discussion with our management to

prove that my academic knowledge and experience are at par

talk about finances, resources, and direction of the company. If I

with the UK Standards and is equivalent to a Masters Level in the

get lucky I may be involved in some hard core engineering work

UK. Achieving chartered engineer status opens a lot of career

the following day!

opportunities not only here in Dubai but anywhere in the World.

The certification allowed me to accept a role in New Zealand to help in seismic design and retrofit of existing structures affected by the 2012 Christchurch Earthquake. I take pride that the quality of our education and trainings back home are at par with the best in the world.

Career and Life Advice My message to our fellow Filipinos is to reach for the sky whatever role or position that you are currently in and enjoy while doing it.

And the most important message is that we should all be proud to be Filipinos everywhere we go! Mabuhay!

My Day As the head of the structural department in our company my day starts with planning and administrative stuff, to make sure the team has enough work and that they perform each task efficiently.

Internal meetings will soon follow to monitor the progress of each project and follow up issues, programs, and deliverables. The next half will be occupied by external meetings with architects, clients, local authorities, and contractors. My day in the office will not end

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IT’S WHAT I DO

It’s what I do

FILIPINO PROGRESS AND DIVERSITY AT THE WORK PLACE

CLEOFE RINGOR

Office Manager - DSM Technology FZCO Dubai, UAE My job I am an Office Manager working in the oil and gas Industry in the Middle East. I have worked in the same company for quite a few years now and I’ve been enjoying since. As an Office Manager, you have to ensure that the office is running smoothly, overseeing the workloads of your co-workers. It’s never easy to delegate tasks to your team, but I always see to it that everyone is happy and enjoying their work. I also try to create a healthy work environment for all.

My Day There are busy days, and there’s time to chill, as well. My role on a daily basis is to check and complete pending matters, to recruit, screen CVs, liaise with agencies and authorities, meet with the clients, suppliers, lawyers - there are too many to mention. At the end of the day, your main challenge is your employer, how they are satisfied with your accomplishments and performance, and whether your tasks have been executed properly. Your aim is to impress them, to keep your job in the long-term and once you’re at the peak of your career, make the most of it and make yourself

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useful all the time, feed your brain so you won’t get obsolete in the market.

Career and Life Advice I have started in a rank-and-file position, yet I told myself then that my career will not end there. I had many sacrifices, I have pushed myself to the limits in order to succeed and achieve my dreams, from being a receptionist to an office manager. My goal was to become a manager at the age of 35 but that didn’t happen. Because God is good! He answered my prayers earlier than I least expected and I became a manager when I was 32. It’s really not about how many trophies or medals you have earned in school, but how determined you are to produce a golden egg.

“Your dream will stay a dream if you don’t work hard for it.”

Remember that – “knowledge is power.” You can do almost everything if you are smart, but refrain from doing bad. The one thing I have learned is to be fair to everyone, be kind and honest even if no one is watching you and share your blessings if you can.I must say that I am truly blessed that I am living the life of my dreams. To my friends, relatives and family who inspire me, thank you for your tremendous support, and to my Papa this is for you.

I just hope you were here to see the person that I had become. I know you’ll be proud.

10 THINGS TO DO From running for fitness and charity to attending arts exhibition, this issue sees a number of activities that are ready to entertain and excite you before the summer season officially kicks in. Stretch your legs, go out, and have a good ‘Spring’ in the city!

1. Book tickets to Anne Curtis’ concert

The Philippines’ sweetheart Anne Curtis is returning to Dubai with her second concert tour, “This is It”. Known for her pretty face that’s regularly seen at the daily noontime series “It’s Showtime”, Anne Curtis is indisputably one of the most sought-after actresses and endorsers in the Philippines. Her concert in Dubai will display her incredible performances that promise “forbidden” numbers and notable guests that will bring audience to their feet. Plus, fans will also have a chance to perform with her onstage during the concert. Happening on May 7 at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, the tickets are sold from AED 100 to AED 350.

2. Check out GETEX

Fresh graduates or new migrants in Dubai, here’s the job haven for you! Over the last 26 years, the Gulf Education Training Exhibition (GETEX) has been the region’s foremost venue for learners who rely on face-to-face meetings with institutions to help them make an informed decision on their higher education options.

For the undergraduate student intake, the exhibit is timed close to the end of the academic calendar, providing institutions the opportunity to engage with students who are on the threshold of college life. On the other hand, mature learners searching specifically for post-graduate and higher-level education and training options in the UAE or abroad, consider it as the most effective and comprehensive information source that helps define their career paths. GETEX benefits from the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research and boasts of a steady following from the region’s education regulators and public/private sector academic stalwarts who view it as the region’s leading annual global showcase of education providers. Happening from April 15 to April 17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, GETEX is free admission.

3. Go to the Dubai Dollar Project

The Dollarsandart art program returns with an all new art exhibition titles Hereo$ & Villain$. Jim Wheats, chief of the Dollarsandart program, and a Dubai-based artist, will be showcasing his works of mixed media at an exhibition on its first day at the Rira Gallery at the Dubai International Financial Centre. Following the success of his previous projects, the program aims to present the various facets of the Dubai life. The new exhibit will be supporting the Noor Foundation for the blind. The exhibit will be from April 15-18, the Heroe$ & Villain$ will be spotted around the metro after a day in Rira Gallery.

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10 THINGS TO DO

4 . Witness ‘Ideas Changing the World’

The Nobel Museum’s travelling exhibition is making its first regional appearance here in Dubai. After visiting New Delhi, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo, “The Nobel Prize: Ideas Changing the World” exhibition comes to Dubai at the BurjKhalifa. Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation is bringing the Nobel Museum’s travelling exhibition to the masses as a free-forall public exhibition. The exhibition introduces the public to the highly esteemed award and how efforts to earn this award have affected and reshaped the world and is split into five pavilions with five respective themes. This exhibit at the BurjKhalifa is free admission from March 29 to April 30.

5 . Celebrate the works of Khalil Gibran

Enjoy a ‘Celebration of Gibran’ under the stars on April 19 at the Dubai International Writers’ Centre. Hosted by Montegrappa, this special cultural initiative will be attended by the President of the Gibran National Committee of Lebanon, Dr Tarek Chidiac, and will see Nadim Sawalha reciting some of Gibran’s poetry. Sawalha will also be discussing his play based on Gibran’s life, ‘Rest Upon the Wind’. Other highlights of the evening will include an operatic performance of one of Gibran’s most iconic songs by the Emirates Opera Project and a talk by Haytham Nasr, Executive Producer of the muchanticipated Hollywood production of ‘The Prophet’, the animated movie, which launches this May in the UAE. The evening will conclude with the unveiling of Montegrappa’s new ‘The Prophet’ Pen, which was designed by Lebanese artist Katya Traboulsi. This event is open for public with admission fee of AED 30 per person.

6. Dance with Sharmila Back again for the 15th edition, The Sharmila Dance Extravaganza gets ready to put on an amazing show. The Sharmila Dance Extravaganza is a professional showcase of the commitment, passion and talent of the Sharmila Dance School’s students and company of professional dancers.

Dedicated to sharing the vitality and delight of dance as both an art form and sport, audience members will witness a collage of choreographies, costumes and music. A diverse

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show, spectators of all ages will enjoy an exciting array of styles and performances. In the last 15 years, the Sharmila Dance Extravaganza has been transformed from a humble street jazz dance show at the Jumeirah Beach Club to one of Dubai’s most sought after dance events. Happening from April 24 to 25, the dance show tickets are available at Virgin Megastore and DUCTAC at AED 110 for free seating and AED 185 for allocated seating.

10 THINGS TO DO 7. Join the Desert Run

The popular desert road run is hosting its mid annual run. The Dubai Desert Road Run is a sport event that allows you to follow your progress throughout the year and socialize with fellow runners. The race takes place several times during the year, so that runners can keep track of the progress. It includes a 10km race for adults and those above 14 years old, a 3km junior race, ages 6 to 18, and a 3km fun run, which is untimed. This time around, there will be a 10k race and a 3k fun run with medals given to all who finish the races. Trophies will be awarded to the first three men and women in all age categories for the 10k run. Participants are able to enter a single run or register for as many dates as they wish. The run will happen at The Sevens Stadium on April 25 at 7am. The fees are AED 50 for 3k run and AED 85 for 10k run. To register, visit the website www. premieronline.com.

8. Sing along with Blended

This year, Blended returns with a brand new lineup of smooth and funky artists. Blended hosted a very successful inaugural show last year and is now returning in 2015 for another two nights of smooth, soulful and funky beats. The second night begins with a bang with Kool and the Gang as they belt out classic mega hits. They will be joined later by one of the smoothest singers in the business, Robin Thicke and Blended will then close with brand new artists Nico and Vinz ending the show. Happening on April 30 and May 1 at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, Blended 2015 opens doors at 6pm. Tickets are available at Virgin Megastore at AED 395, AED 695 and AED 1395.

9. Run with Wings

Take part in the Wings for Life run to raise funds for spinal cord research. The Wings for Life World Run is a global running and wheelchair event that finishes when the Catcher Car catches the last person. Everyone – wheelchair users and runners alike – will start globally at 11am UTC (3pm Dubai time) and everyone will be chased, slowly but surely, by the Catcher Car. When the Catcher Car passes you, your race is over, but the fun carries on as finishers catch the shuttle buses back to the starting area, where so everyone can celebrate in style. 100% of the Wings for Life World Run proceeds go to the foundation that aims on researching to find a cure for spinal cord injury. The run is happening at the Dubai Autodrome in Dubai Motor City on May 3.

1 0 . G e t c h a l l e n g e d a t Th e S a n d P i t

Want to test your personal and team building skills? Here’s the activity for you. The Sand Pit is an untimed 10k obstacle challenge that tests your physical and mental abilities. At The Sand Pit, you will experience how tough you really are, and how necessary your team and teamwork really is to accomplish a daunting challenge. At The Sand Pit, you can expect to build fellowships, realize what you are truly capable of and have a blast while doing it. There will also be an after-party for all to celebrate their individual achievements as well as their successes as part of a team. Happening on April 17 at Al Barari, entries are priced at AED 310 and AED 360.

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MONEY

Protect your money while travelling

By Francisco J Colayco

Vacation is for relaxing and not worrying. But the reality is that you need money to enjoy your vacation unless you are spending it at home. You are also so used to your set ways of daily living including what you keep in your wallet or purse. Chances are you carry the same purse with your ID, ATM and credit cards kept in the same place. If you don’t do it yet, keep your loose cash (both paper and coins) separate in a smaller light purse so that you don’t have to open your entire wallet each time you need cash thus exposing your cards.

HOW SAFE IS YOUR VACATION AREA For your vacation, plan with the safety of your money in mind.

Think in detail of the places you are going to, particularly the transportation, lodging and eating facilities. Have a budget focusing on exactly how much cash you should bring. Check if there are ATM machines available to further lessen your actual cash on hand. If the place you are visiting will have places accepting it, bring a credit card and if you have more than one, just take one or at most two cards for safety.

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But remember, credit cards should still be used the way I have always advised. You should have the cash to immediately pay for your purchases on your credit card statement due date.

Just one day delay in payment can be the start of your credit card debt misery that can last you a long time if you are not careful. There are too many stories about overspending and credit card debt which is the most expensive kind of debt.

Don’t add yourself to the sad stories and keep your vacation memories happy.

SAFETY TIPS WHETHER AT HOME OR TRAVELLING The safety financial tips for travelling are actually the same ones you should follow while you are home. But you just need to be more focused since you will be in a new place and precisely more relaxed without a care.

Have a copy of your important documents in a separate safe place that you can refer to if necessary. This includes your Passport, ID, SS, Driver’s License and other similar important documents. Also copy all your credit cards and other discount cards back and forth on one sheet, again for reference.

Bring a copy of your health insurance and leave another copy of your important documents and your itinerary with your family.

MONEY Keep most of your money in the bank but whatever cash you have divide into different parts for storage in your home. This is especially true if you live with others and househelp. Do not tempt them.

you. Do not assume that your belongings are safe because your entire group is around. This is particularly true in a crowded space.

Even within your purse or handbag, try to divide the money into different compartments. Unless your entire purse or handbag is stolen, you may have a better chance of not losing all your cash to theft. You could also keep a money bag inside your clothes.

You will be surprised at how fast thieves work and you will never even know you were robbed until you need your money.

I have seen this in action several times and was truly amazed because thieves work in a coordinated team. They will create all kinds of diversion to distract all and thus easily steal your possessions.

At the end of each day, review your purchases especially those made with a credit card. Remember the cut-off date and the due date fixed for your credit card. The cut-off date is based on your date of purchase. If you purchase right after your cutoff date, you can wait until the next cycle of your due date.

You need to always look focused and organized while walking around. The way you carry your purse or bag will be a dead giveaway to the thieves on how easy it will be to rob you. If your bag is always under your arm and not swinging around, they may look for someone else to prey on.

File your credit card receipts carefully and keep tab of the total amounts and due date. If you will still be away on due date, make sure you make arrangements for payment. Again, you do not want to add to your stress after your vacation. Even if the credit card company could give you a chance for the one time that you are late, you will still need to exert extra effort and time talking to them.

CHECK BEFORE AND AFTER

As always, you should be focused when you use the ATM card.

Check the machine you are using to make sure it is not a fake one and look around you for privacy before using it.

Keep your contact numbers for your bank, your credit cards and your hotel in your phone in case of an emergency.

BE READY FOR CROWDS Take extra precaution when you know you will be in a crowded area. Never use a backpack unless you do not put anything of monetary value in it. Never lay your bag on the floor beside

Whatever lodging or eating place or even vehicle your enter, be aware of your surroundings. In a restaurant, choose the safest place for your purse or bag. In a vehicle, put your bag with your money always on your lap. In a hotel room or sleeping area, understand what is included in your room rate, especially if there is a bar provided. Use the hotel safekeeping facilities but put your own safeguards for whatever you leave so you know if anything has been tampered with.

Remember to give every place you leave a careful lookthrough including closets, cabinets, drawers. In a vehicle or restaurant, do not assume that what you are carrying is the only article you have with you. Always still look at where you were seating. Many times, a shopping bag is left behind.

Enjoy your travels and remember to keep praying for your safety as well as all your loved ones!

Too busy to read? Check out our videos.

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Together with KsKCoop we also began the One Wealthy Nation Mutual Fund. Check it out on www.colaycofinancialeducation. com and www.kskcoop.com

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COMMUNITY

Dark Knights: ABA Season 4 Champions The Architects Basketball Association (ABA) recently concluded its Season 4 Inter-Color Conference, held last Thursday at Zayed Bin Sultan Boys School in Dubai. The tournament, which opened in November last year, featured 12 teams of architects from all over the UAE. The exciting finals matchup featured an exciting head-to head battle royal pitting the Dark Knights of Peter Cabalda against the Darederek team of Junar Aquino. The unbeaten Knights eventually won, 67-62, led by Season 4 MVP Paolo Jansalin and Finals MVP Joseph Doctor.

The battle for 3rd Place was secured by the Venom team over the Punisher team, 66-64. Mythical first team includes MVP Jansalin, Jun Pangilinan, Reydom Legario, Argel Miranda and Renz Gaa. “ABA acts as a venue for continued interaction among Architects and fellow professionals through the sport whilst maintaining its heartfelt commitment to the society through charity works, social drives and community awareness programs� as explained

by Arch. Josh Claveria, ABA Chairman.

Regular scrimmages are currently being held every Thursday night, from 7PM onwards at Zayed Bin Sultan Gym in Satwa.

New architect joiners are welcome to enlist for the upcoming Inter-School tournament Season 4.

For more information, send the group an email at abauae@ yahoo.com or contact Arch. Josh Claveria 056-7294582 or Arch Junar Aquino 0504540358.

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COMMUNITY

Filipino-Muslims in UAE Basketball Tournament The first Filipino-Muslim in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Basketball Tournament 2015, sponsored by SPMUDA-UAE (Southern Philippines Muslim and Non-Muslim for Development Authority), opened on the 3rd of April at Al Manama Hypermarket Michi’s Hall in Ajman.

It was well attended by Filipino-Muslim community, led by Protocol Officer Mochtar Macoy Pukunum, representing the Philippine Consulate in Dubai and Northern Emirates; MARCOM president Jamael Panda of the Maranao Community in the UAE and his predecessor Engr. Abdullah Asgar; Mindanao State University Alumni Association - UAE Chapter President Engr. Louie Bendinillo, United Overseas Bangsamoro-UAE president Anwar Amil; Wafa Qasimi of Dubai Islamic Affairs, represented by Ustadj Johari Macaayan; some brothers and sisters from Kaleema Islamic Center; Filipino-Muslim workers from Union Coop and Sharjah Coop; and friends coming from across the Emirates like Al Ain and Abu Dhabi.

The tournament had a series of 3 games; season 1 on the 3rd of April through to season 3 on the 17th of April 2015. Games were played at the Sharjah Sports Club.

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With this event meant as a launching activity, main organizers SPMUDA-UAE hoped to raise funds for the less fortunate in Mindanao. The projected has attracted the interest of Filipino Muslims groups across the emirates with 11 teams participating mostly the Bangsamoro tribes and other convert groups.

The organizers would like to commend the following key members who played a critical role to put the event together: Roy Tamano, Steering Committee; Cairon Campong Ali, Finance Committee; Dino Bazer, Marshalls Committee; Abdulrahman Marohomsalic, Logistics Committee; Ismael Mamaclay, Games Committee; and the members who showed unselfish interest in fulfilling their tasks as Committee Officials, namely - Engr. Abdullah Asgar, Mido Ahmed, Waffa Hebres, Noraisa Tamano, Ashley Marohombsar, Ashey Tamano-Guroalim, Sonaima Ampuan, Rizzan Gendeng, Allan Guroalim, Sanaira Jamel, Tungco Gendeng and our Advisers, Diplomat Mohammed Javier Pukunum and Professor Aleem Alaoddin Lucman.

SPMUDA-UAE also has the support of other groups like the Maranao Community in UAE (MARCOM-UAE), Mindanao State University Alumni Association (MSUAA-UAE), United Overseas Bangsamoro (UOB-UAE) and the BangsaMoro Labor Organizations (BMLO-UAE), Dubai Islamic Affairs and some group of Muslim Converts.

TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINES

Travel the Philippines 7,107 beautiful islands.

It might be a bit over-reaching to try and visit all of them in one lifetime, but you sure can’t be blamed for trying. The Philippines is a treasure trove of sights, smells, and experiences. Our people are renowned for being one the world’s smiliest – certainly the world’s selfiest – and we will use any excuse to throw a fiesta.

Whether you’re an adventurer, a cultural savant, or a soul-searcher, the Philippines has something magnificent and memorable to offer.

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TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINES

Palawan

Archeological findings indicate that the first Filipino/ the Tabon Man, once lived in the Tabon Caves Complex, now Known as the Lipuun Point in Quezon, Palawan.

Archeological exploration and excavation undertake at the Tabon caves Complex yielded significants artifact and ecofacts belonging to different cultural chronologies ranging from 50,000 years ago to the 14th century A.D. The ancient Palawanos have had a kind of writing, including an alphabet and a form of selft-government under the normal jurisdiction of the Sultanate of Sulu. The name Palawan is believed to come from Chinese word”PA-LAO-YU” meaning the “Land of Beautiful Safe Harbor” and a Spanish word PARAGUA.

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In 1622, the Spaniards arrived led by Count Saint Agustin.

They first established their authority on the northern portion on the province, over the island of Calamianes group. They organized the region into a province known as Calamianes.

Later, they built a fort, which was capable of accommodating a garrison of 700 men. Taytay then became the bastion of Spanish authority. The Muslim tried to capture the fort in 1730 and 1735, but they failed. About the middle of the century, The Spanish government obtained from the Sultanate the secession of the southern part of Paragua in order to extend

TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINES

In 1873, the capital of Palawan was transferred from Taytay to Cuyo. After the Filipino-American War, the Americans established the Civil Government of Pragua on June 23,1902 with Major John Brown as the first appointed Governor. In 1903, pursuant to Axct. No. 1363 of the Philippine Commission, the name of the province was changed to Palawan and the capital was transferred from Cuyo to Puerto Princesa.

the Spanish authority to the newly acquired territory. Later, they abandoned the place when a considerable number of the expeditionary force perished from fever, which could be attributed to what is now called Malaria. But today with modern facilities and medications, Malaria is controlled.

In 1818, practically all the territories, which now belong to Palawan, where known as the Province of Calamianes with the capital in Taytay. In 1858, Calamianes was divided into two provinces, Castilla and Asturias. Castilla comprised the Calamianes group and the adjacent islands, and the northern portion of Paragua. Its capital was Taytay. Asturias included the rest of Paragua together with the island of Balabac, which early that year was made into a politico-military province with the name of Principe Alfonso. Its capital was Puerto Princesa.

Later, during the term of the Governor and Captain Rafael de Izquirdo, the island of Pragua was organized into a separate politico-military province with Puerto Princesa as the capital.

At the end of the Spanish rule, the province of Palawan was divided into three politico-military districts-Calamianes, Paragua, and Balabac.

At the outbreak of World War II, the Japanese Imperial Forces occupied Palawan on May 18, 1942. They establish garrisons in Coron, Puerto Princesa and Iwahig. Consequently, guerilla units were formed in there sector led

by Captian Amores in Calamaianes, by Higinio Mendoza, Sr., in the mainland, and by Emilio Tumbaga in Brooke’s Point. During the Japanese occupation, a civil government known”Free Palawan” headed by Governor Gaudencio E. Abordo was established in the hinterlands, in 1941

How to Get There The Province of Palawan being an island is accessible

by Air & Boat from Manila, Iloilo & Cebu. Its is approximately 55 min by air from Manila, 1 hr. & 15 mins from Cebu. Ferries leaving from Manila travel 24 hours and 36 hours from Iloilo.

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TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINES

Manila

As the city center of the Philippines, Manila is a dense stew of urban development and historic sentiment.

Even within heritage districts such as Rizal Park and Intramuros, you won’t be far from a branch of local fast-food giant, Jollibee.

University students pile out of kalesas, then walk the old fort’s walls to get to class. The Light Rail Transit (LRT) trundles past as families picnic on Luneta park grass.

Like passengers in a jeepney, the past, present and future sit shoulder to shoulder, flying down Manila’s streets. Get on the same ride. You can sit back, safe, as the city flashes past you.

Or you can put your head out, let your hair fly in the wind and see where the city takes you.

When the Spaniards arrived in the 1500’s, they built a walled city in place of the kuta (fort) of Rajah Soliman. This city is now known as Intramuros, one of the best models of a medieval fort outside Europe.

Intramuros contains the UNESCO World Heritage Site San Agustin Church and the San Agustin Museum. The compound contains fine religious artifacts and relics from the Galleon Trade — from treasure chests to ivory santos (saints) to gold embroidered vestments. Juan Luna, one of the greatest Filipino painters, is interred here. Casa Manila, a lifestyle museum replicated from an 1800’s home, is also in the area.

The guards and the owners of the calesas (horse-drawn carriages) are dressed in period costumes so take a picture with them. They’ll be all smiles with you.

If you want the juicy stuff, join Carlos Celdran’s Walk This Way

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tour of the walled city. He certainly makes history alive with his off-the-books anecdotes. This is the stuff that they don’t teach you in schools.

The Philippines’ first hotel is also located here. Established in 1912, the Manila Hotel is grand, classic, and historical, having hosted famous personalities like Gen. Douglas MacArthur, Marlon Brando, and The Beatles.

You can ride a calesa through the historic streets of Binondo and Ermita.

In Binondo, taste your way through Chinatown, which is said to be the oldest Chinese settlement in the world, having been established in the late 16th century. Have a sampling of authentic Fujian and Cantonese cuisine. But don’t forget to look outside the restaurants too; you will see vendors of dragon fruits and other tropical fruits at bargain prices.

Then walk a few blocks to try your luck at the wholesaler’s haven of Divisoria, where the more you buy, the cheaper it gets!

We know it’s a cliché, but we really do have the best sunsets in Manila Bay. Take a walk down Roxas Boulevard and see it for yourself. Each day it seems like a different sun.

You can find many of the city’s significant landmarks off of this boulevard. Rizal Park, also known as Luneta, is the most

TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINES

HOW TO GET THERE Air

important shrine in the country – as well a great place to watch the locals spend their weekend. Settle down on a picnic mat or buy a kite.

Also of importance in the area — the National Museum. The Museum holds the most extensive exhibit of Galleon Trade relics in the Philippines and illustrates the origins of the Filipino people. But even without stepping inside, the National Museum itself is a beauty of Neo-Classical architecture.

At night, party your way through the clubs, pubs, and quirky bars of Malate nearby.

But that’s just the basics! Make your own Manila memories by meandering through Manila’s side streets.

You might find an ihawan (hawker-style grill) that serves the tastiest barbecues or maybe an old book you haven’t found elsewhere. Strike up a conversation with a Manileño and see what makes them tick. Join a round of karaoke or beat an old man at chess. Whatever Manila you find, drink to it with a cold glass of San Miguel.

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are the premier international gateways. More than 30 airlines fly to Manila through here, from different cities around the world.

Manila is also accessible from the international airports of Cebu, Clark, Davao, General Santos, Iloilo, Kalibo, Laoag, Puerto Princesa, and Zamboanga; as well as the other domestic airports throughout the Philippines.

Land All major provincial cities would have bus service to Manila. Inquire at your local terminal for schedules and ticketing.

Sea You can take a passenger ferry from major ports around the Philippines to the port city of Manila. Inquire at your local port for schedules and ticketing.

It is also possible to travel from Sandakan, Malaysia to Zamboanga City, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi via Weesam Express.

Then take a flight, boat ride or series of bus rides to Manila.

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TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINES

Tagaytay

Tagaytay and the surrounding areas are perfect for weekend golf. The cool climate, rolling terrain, and proximity to Metro Manila add to the area’s popularity.

Exclusive clubs with championship golf courses have mushroomed in recent years. Some of the best ones are the Orchard Golf and Country Club in Dasmariñas, the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club in Carmona, and the Riviera Golf and Country Club in Silang.

Stop along the ridge at the Tagaytay Picnic Grove. It’s a great spot for the whole family, where kids can go horseback riding and kite flying. The more adventurous will enjoy the zipline and cable car.

A different kind of adventure awaits history buffs at the Museo De La Salle at the De La Salle University Dasmariñas campus.

See how the 19th-century Philippine ilustrado (erudite) might have lived.

will also do the trick. Indulge in organic vegetables, homemade bread, and dalandan (native citrus) fed native chicken.

Marcia Adams’ Restaurant provides a taste of Tuscany through the food and the ambience. Pamana Restaurant serves Filipino comfort food made special. And the seafood of Josephine Restaurant makes it a Tagaytay institution.

Drop by Ilog Maria for therapeutic honey-and-beeswax-based products. The soap, oils and balms are amazing.

On your way back to Manila, make sure to stop at a roadside fruit stall for pineapple, bananas, jackfruit or whatever other fruit is in season.

Feeling lucky? Head for the Casino Filipino Leisure and Entertainment Center, where you can get your fill of slot games and table games.

How to Get There

For some pampering, visit the Nurture Spa Village. One of the “28 most relaxing spas in Asia” (according to CNN Go in June 2010), the spa uses “ecotherapy” — healing by and through nature. A weekend at Sonya’s Secret Garden and Restaurant

Take the South Luzon Expressway and exit at Carmona.

Or take the Sta. Rosa exit all the way to the end.

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Land

TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINES

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TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINES

Ilocos

Region 1 or the Ilocos Region is composed of four provinces and a city—Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, and Dagupan City. Majority of the population speaks Ilocano, the third largest spoken language in the Philippines, although a significant number also speak Pangasinense.

The region has a coast and hilly ranges that are prone to typhoon in the wet months, but devastatingly hot during the dry season. This is the backdrop of Ilocano food. It’s salty due to the proximity to the sea. There is even an entire province named after asin (salt) in Pangasinan. Fish is preserved by drying, and of course, reduced into a paste or sauce by fermentation.

Vegetables are hardy and can weather the rains or extreme heat. Thus, you have dishes like pinakbet or dinengdeng— locally sourced vegetable, flavored with fish paste.

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Locals have a penchant for crunchy things too-like the corn snack, chichacorn; the delectable longganisa-stuffed empanada; and the deliciously deadly bagnet-cured and fried pieces of meat!

There are a lot of natural highlights here too.

Take the Hundred Islands National Park, for instance. There are 123 islands, each with its own little eco-system. Some say these islands are 2 million years old. Imagine hiking through a limestone formation that has seen the dawn of man.

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famous, it almost destroyed Spain’s textile industry. According to specialists, it was used as sail cloths for the galleons and was comparable to Belgian linen. Abel was originally used from the time one was born ‘til one’s death, from baby blanket to death robe. And for all other occasions in between.

Take some time to plot out your itinerary, because it can be overwhelming. You can tailor your own food trip, architectural escapade, adventure tour or just relax along the West Philippine Sea. But make sure to leave some time for the most important part of your journey—getting lost and hanging with the locals.

Love basking on the sand? The coast provides a colorful array of it from the greyest of grey to the white beaches of Pagudpud. There’s even one beach that is just pure pebble.

Many of these beaches cater to tourists, like the surfing areas of San Juan in La Union. But take a while to get lost, and you’ll still find hidden gems in small towns.

Architectural masterpieces? There are three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ilocos Sur alone.

How to Get There Land Take the South Luzon Expressway and exit at Carmona. Or take the Sta. Rosa exit all the way to the end.

In Vigan, there are 187 documented examples of period architecture. It’s like traveling 500 years back. And in every town, you’ll find ancient churches—even older than the Missions of California.

For the artist in you, take your time to learn the tedious process of weaving abel. During the colonial area, abel was so

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Baguio

Baguio is one of the most famous cities in the Philippines and has been celebrated as the Summer Capital of the country for the past 99 years.

It was the playground of the Americans who built this city as their vacation spot in the 1900’s. It has since expanded, and now has a population of 30,000.

Today, Baguio offers a world of adventures.

Stroll down Session Road and shop in an ukay-ukay (thrift shop). Vintage is king in these places, so look out for branded items at bargain prices.

Looking for local crafts? The people of the Cordillera are known for their carving and weaving skills. The downtown market sells all sorts of carved bulul (rice gods) and the infamous Barrel Man. Woven rattan products such as pasiking (native backpacks) and baskets come in all varieties. You can also see the carvers in action. Just take a taxi ride down Asin Road by Green Valley.

For some inspiration, go a little further and visit the Bencab Gallery and Museum. Built on the edge of a hill with an incredible view of a rainforest and garden, the museum is owned by the National Artist Ben Cabrera. Ethnographic

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masterpieces in the form of spoons, pipes and bowls are showcased along with paintings and sculpture.

For a deeper look into the Cordillera life without leaving the city, Tam-Awan Village is the spot to visit. Here you’ll find replicas of native cogon-thatched homes, and get a chance to meet local artists.

Burnham Park, Camp John Hay and Mines View Park are places to hang out. Hotels and homestays are aplenty such as log cabin look-alike The Manor and serviced apartment Gardenville in Green Valley. PNKYHome is a bed and breakfast you can call home.

A day isn’t enough in this town, so keep your itinerary open; you might want to stay for a while.

It was the playground of the Americans who built this city as their vacation spot in the 1900’s. It has since expanded, and now has a population of 30,000.

Today, Baguio offers a world of adventures.

TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINES cabin look-alike The Manor and serviced apartment Gardenville in Green Valley.

PNKYHome is a bed and breakfast you can call home.

A day isn’t enough in this town, so keep your itinerary open; you might want to stay for a while.

TOP THINGS TO DO • Live like a local Visit Tam-Awan Village and take a peek at how the local indigenous groups live. It’s like a little town where you’ll learn a thing or two.

• See the best of highland arts Check out the gallery of National Artist BenCab where you’ll find an interesting mix of ethnographic masterpieces. Lunch is also a lovely idea as you’ll have an enchanting view of a rainforest.

• Get a dose of art Drop by the Victor Oteyza Community Art Space (VOCAS) on Session Road where the local art scene is very much alive. It regularly hosts performances by artists and has a vegetarian restaurant, Oh My Gulay (“Oh My Vegetable”).

• Mi casa, su casa Stroll down Session Road and shop in an ukayukay (thrift shop). Vintage is king in these places, so look out for branded items at bargain prices.

Looking for local crafts? The people of the Cordillera are known for their carving and weaving skills. The downtown market sells all sorts of carved bulul (rice gods) and the infamous Barrel Man. Woven rattan products such as pasiking (native backpacks) and baskets come in all varieties. You can also see the carvers in action. Just take a taxi ride down Asin Road by Green Valley.

For some inspiration, go a little further and visit the Bencab Gallery and Museum. Built on the edge of a hill with an incredible view of a rainforest and garden, the museum is owned by the National Artist Ben Cabrera. Ethnographic masterpieces in the form of spoons, pipes and bowls are showcased along with paintings and sculpture.

Check out Casa Vallejo on Upper Session Road, an old refugee center that has been transformed into one of Baguio’s charming places. It houses the Miele Guide-listed Hill Station restaurant, the quirky Mt. Cloud Bookshop, North Haven Spa, and Baguio Cinematheque.

HOW TO GET THERE Land Several bus lines that leave hourly for Baguio are stationed in Cubao and Pasay.

Travel time takes about five hours.

For a deeper look into the Cordillera life without leaving the city, Tam-Awan Village is the spot to visit. Here you’ll find replicas of native cogon-thatched homes, and get a chance to meet local artists.

Burnham Park, Camp John Hay and Mines View Park are places to hang out. Hotels and homestays are aplenty such as log

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Boracay

Any iconic photos of Boracay you’ve seen are likely to be from the westward-facing White Beach — four kilometers of white, powdery fine sand dotted with resorts, shops, and restaurants.

White Beach is composed of three sections.

The northernmost section – Station 1 – has the widest beachfront. This has the best (and most expensive) resorts and hotels.

The center of White Beach is Station 2. People come here to eat, shop, and party.

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If you’re looking for a quieter area, then Station 3, the southernmost section, is for you.

Because the waters off White Beach are calm during Amihan season (November to May), tourism is at its peak during these months when the northeastern winds blow. Conditions reverse during the rainy season, when the Habagat or

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After all the sports, indulge in a luxurious massage right on the beach or at one of the spas. Enjoy a healthy fruit shake at Jonah’s. Take a relaxing dip at the infinity pool of the ShangriLa Resort and Spa, with its mesmerizing view of the sea. Shop for shell jewelry. And when the sun goes down, you can head to any of Boracay’s bars for a taste of the island nightlife.

Cocktails, draft beer, and imported ales flow nightly as live bands and pounding disco music entertain you.

Most importantly, don’t forget to soak up some rays and lounge around on the fine white sand that made Boracay famous.

monsoon winds blow.

Bulabog Beach, on the eastern side of the island opposite White Beach, has large waves and strong winds year-round.

This makes it a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding.

In fact, Bulabog Beach is considered Asia’s top kitesurf destination.

Whichever side of the island or end of the beach you choose, there’s a room for every type of traveler here. Budget accommodations start at around US$ 17, and can go all the way to US$ 300 per person at prime resorts like Discovery Shores.

And because Boracay gets tourists from different parts of the globe, you’ll find a wide variety of food choices: Chinese, Indian, American, Mexican, French, Italian, Swiss —even Moroccan food! Fresh seafood is a given.

There’s no shortage of activities for you at this island paradise.

Boracay has around 25 dive sites that cater to all levels of experience. You can go parasailing. Take a paraw (native outrigger boat) for a tour of the island. Go waterskiing. Or cliff diving.

HOW TO GET THERE Air The fastest way to Boracay is to fly from Manila to Caticlan Airport in Panay island.

There are also many flights to Kalibo, one may also take the Manila-Kalibo flight however, travel time is is 1 1/2 hours by bus from Caticlan. Flight time from Manila to Caticlan is approximatelyt 50 minutes.

From Cebu City, flying time is also about 50 minutes and 30 minutes from Tablas, Romblon.

Land No option is available.

Sea An adventurous but more leisurely and romantic way to travel to Boracay is by ferry from Manila to Caticlan or Dumaguit, near Kalibo. Travel time is about 17 hours

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Cebu

The city of Cebu is known as the “Queen City of the South” —and rightly so.

As the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines, it has some of the country’s most iconic heritage spots. As a major trading port and site for some of the nation’s fastest-growing industries, it reinforces its multiculturalism with progression.

This heady mix of urban vibes and casual provincial airs makes it a favorite destination of those seeking a showcase of the harmonious co-existence of history, culture and modernity.

The Museo Sugbo showcases the province’s history. And if you can brave the cacophony, walk down Colon Street, the oldest street in the Philippines.

Explore the city’s rich past with a visit to its historical landmarks.

For a more adrenaline-pumping view, ride the Edge Coaster more than 130 meters off the ground, or go for a Sky Walk at the Crown Regency Cebu.

Magellan’s Cross commemorates the moment Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted a wooden cross on Cebu’s soil to mark converting its locals to Christianity.

The Basilica del Santo Niño houses one of the country’s oldest religious relics: a statue of the Child Jesus that dates back to 1521.

Fort San Pedro is the smallest Spanish outpost in the Philippines, while the Casa Gorordo and Yap-San Diego Ancestral House give a glimpse into residential life in Cebu during the Spanish era.

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Not much of a history buff? Cebu still has a lot to offer. Head to Tops, a popular observation deck that offers romantic views of the city.

Malls like Ayala Center and SM City provide a range of shopping, dining and leisure activities for various budgets.

While you’re at it, don’t forget to stuff yourself silly with lechon (roast pig), which Anthony Bourdain called “the best pig ever” on an episode of his hit television show No Reservations.

Zubuchon and CNT Lechon serve some of the best lechon in Cebu.

Other traditional and no less yummy Filipino dishes are best enjoyed at Café Laguna, the Golden Cowrie Native Restaurant

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colorful street party attracting revellers Philippines and the world.

from around the

Go over the edge. Ride the Xtreme Edge Coaster for a view of Cebu unlike any other.

and Abuhan.

Sophisticated palates will enjoy the international buffet and vegetarian menu at Shangri-La Mactan’s Tides and Marco Polo Plaza Cebu’s Cafe Marco, or the savory Chinese offerings at the Cebu Waterfront Hotel & Casino’s Tin Gow. Gustatory exploits can also be had at Nonki (Japanese), Café Orchidia (Italian) and La Marea (try their best-selling warm brownie cups).

No visit to Cebu is complete without a taste of its nightlife. Dive into a little debauchery at hip spots in IT Park or Crossroads.

Or just park yourself at your hotel bar. Treff boasts inventive dishes and a beautiful glass-and-white façade, while the scenic Blu Bar & Grill was named one of Asia’s best bars by Travel + Leisure Asia.

The famous Sinulog Festival, which celebrates the child Jesus, happens every third Sunday of January. The city hosts a wild,

HOW TO GET THERE Air There are daily flights to Cebu via the Mactan-Cebu International Airport from key cities in the country, as well as scheduled flights from Hongkong, Singapore, Narita in Japan and Incheon, South Korea.

Land Buses bound for Cebu leave from Dumaguete, Oriental Negros and Bacolod, Negros Occidental every hour.

It is also possible to take your car here via a Roll On-Roll Off (RORO) ferry.

Sea The Cebu City Port service the inter-island sea vessels on the Cebu-Manila-Cebu route from the different major cities in the Visayas and Mindanao.

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The heart and soul of Bohol

By Excel V. Dyquiangco

Bohol in the Visayan Region is known for its lush Chocolate Hills, the most prominent national tourist spot that locals and foreigners flock to. But aside from this feat of nature, there exists other treasures that make the province as cinematic and as majestic as other favorite Philippine destinations. The presence of the Philippine tarsiers, of course, has always been there as well as islands and beaches that are just within the reach of an ordinary backpacker.

Here are some of the reasons why Bohol has always been – and will always be - endearing and engaging to visitors, close to their hearts and souls.

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The Lure of Virgin Island When it comes to sandy beaches and wading in the waters, nothing beats Virgin Island in Panglao, Bohol. There are many Virgin Islands in many parts of the country, but this one is quite different from the rest mainly because it has a long and wide sandbar that even gets longer and wider during the summer season. As some bits of it are immersed in water, the whole island is revealed when it gets too hot for comfort, allowing parents and their children to frisk in the sand and wade in the waters. Plus the sands are just so white and fine it flows smoothly through your fingers.

This famed island is also a sandbar with all kinds of amenities – stores where you can buy souvenirs, T-shirts and even food and drinks, and a picnic area where you can lounge around

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the place with benches and all. This place is also one sign that the people in this community are serious in their religious and cultural homage. One of the first images that would greet you along your walk in the sandbar includes the monument of Saint Pio Petrelcina, a priest and a friar who was believed to appear in Bohol, housed in a makeshift hut. A further walk would also reveal statues of Saint Agustin, the patron saint of Bohol, of Mary Mediatrix of all Grace, of angels and of Jesus Christ at the Garden of Gethsemane and during his crucifixion. A flag pole – without the flag - also stands erect in the middle of the island.

Of Familiarities and New Discoveries

Interestingly Virgin Island also showcases a small gallery where you can see and observe different pictures (and illustrations) of the native life in the province and in the island, as well as noteworthy achievements of some locals

If, on the other hand, you want to go uphill and discover the mountains, travel to Loboc and see the tarsiers up close. The Tarsier Conservation Area which is more or less than an hour’s drive from Panglao provides the perfect getaway for those who want to discover why these mammals are rare and in demand.

The place which has a maze-like structure with a lot of trees and plants in the area requires visitors to pay at least an entrance

One of the more famous beaches in Bohol is called the Alona Beach which is a long stretch of sand that extends miles away.

Filled with souvenir shops, restaurants and small resorts, this famous beach exudes an appeal of green and turquoise waters that are crystal clear to the eyes and to the soul. Quite surprising is that when it’s low tide season, the beach only reaches up to your knee – and some to the waist – even when you feel that you are already far away from the shoreline.

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TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINES fee of P60 for adults and P50 for students and senior citizens.

Once inside the compound, of course, you’d want to be on the lookout for these creatures but these tarsiers are so small that you need to peer at them closely and brush through the trees.

Good thing, there are people around who keep an eye out for them and points you in their direction. At the end of the visit, a souvenir shop also abounds in the area where you can buy shirts, hats and caps and other items.

Adventure and Thrill Seekers at CHAP For a different kind of adventure altogether, you can visit the Chocolate Hills Adventure Park or better known as CHAP which houses, of course, the famous Chocolate Hills. But to get there, you have to do rounds of activities first – for the brave and the courageous. Situated in one of the most scenic sites in the Region, CHAP offers a fresh angle of nature trails and adrenaline-pumping thrills – this, in fact, is what greets you upon entrance, the refreshing sight of a little bridge over a pond that glistens in the sunlight and fishes that swim in that small pond. This is what makes it an ecological park, as well, which also serves as a home to various species of reptiles and mammals and a place where you can commune with around 17 varieties of flowers and shrubberies.

The rush at CHAP involves the Rope Courses such as the Snake Ladder which allows you to walk through a dilapidated bridge several feet above the ground and the Pentagon which is a tree top course, probably one of the more difficult courses you have to take, that allows you to swing from one tree to another using a string of ropes, among others. Definitely you’d lose a lot of weight when you try this one.

Meanwhile the Bike Zip in which the rider pedals a makeshift bicycle 150 feet above the ground is probably one of the last rides you’ll ever do. No pun intended, but the rush of the wind with nothing that prevents you from a hard landing is what makes it more terrifying – and fulfilling. Once in the apex, though, you’d see an enthralling view of – what else – the Chocolate Hills which is made up of more than a thousand hills. A glorious sight to behold since no other Region can offer such a glamorous view of one of the top natural attractions in the country.

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Davao

Clean. Progressive. Modern. If you’re searching for city that capitalizes on the outdoors, you might just find Davao City a pleasant surprise.

The Davao Riverfront Complex houses the Crocodile Park, one of the city’s most popular attractions. The park showcases more than just crocs — it is also home to a variety of wildlife.

Be sure to catch feeding time, educational talks and other shows. The complex also contains the Davao Butterfly House and the Tribu K’Mindanawan, a cultural village that holds an impressive fire-dancing performance. When you’ve worked up an appetite, try Filipino fare or exotic crocodile and ostrichbased cuisine at the RiverWalk Grill.

Amp up the fun at the Zorb Park and Water Ball, where you can enjoy rolling around while encased in a giant plastic ball. Head on to the zipline facilities in Outland Adventure and Zip City for an adrenaline rush coupled with panoramic views of the city. Davao City is also home to the first wakeboarding facility in Mindanao . Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a rookie who’s looking for fun, Deca Wakeboard Park is the destination for you.

Then try river rafting at the Davao Wild Water Adventure. Brave Davao River’s mighty waters and experience a 10-kilometer stretch of pure river rafting fun.

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Elsewhere in the city, Eden Nature Park offers activities such as camping, trekking, horseback riding, fishing and even a zip line.

The Malagos Garden Resort has stunning gardens in full bloom (including the endemic Waling-Waling orchid), stately pine trees and a collection of pieces by national artist Napoleon Abueva.

Then there’s the Philippine Eagle Center, a habitat that over 30 Philippine Eagles call home. (The Philippine Eagle is not only one of the world’s largest eagles but is also critically endangered.)

If you’re just looking for a quick stroll, take your pick from the many parks in the city — the expansive and breezy People’s Park is always a good choice.

For a quick history lesson, make your way to Museo Dabawenyo and Davao Museum. This museum features galleries on local tribes and Muslim communities, historical landmarks, archives and various memorabilia.

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Wondering where to stay? Marco Polo Davao has elegantly furnished rooms offering views of Mt. Apo or the Davao Gulf, as well as lavish pampering at its Lazuli Spa. Its convenient location also means you can do your shopping at malls like SM City Davao, SM Lanang Premier, Abreeza Ayala Mall, Davao Chimes Mall, and several big local malls.

Don’t forget to drop by local coffee chain Blugre to try their famous durian coffee and durian cheesecake.

The Davao Riverfront Complex houses the Crocodile Park, one of the city’s most popular attractions. The park showcases more than just crocs — it is also home to a variety of wildlife.

Be sure to catch feeding time, educational talks and other shows. The complex also contains the Davao Butterfly House and the Tribu K’Mindanawan, a cultural village that holds an impressive fire-dancing performance. When you’ve worked up an appetite, try Filipino fare or exotic crocodile and ostrichbased cuisine at the RiverWalk Grill.

Amp up the fun at the Zorb Park and Water Ball, where you can enjoy rolling around while encased in a giant plastic ball.

Head on to the zipline facilities in Outland Adventure and Zip City for an adrenaline rush coupled with panoramic views of the city. Davao City is also home to the first wakeboarding facility in Mindanao .

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a rookie who’s looking for fun, Deca Wakeboard Park is the destination for you.

Then try river rafting at the Davao Wild Water Adventure. Brave Davao River’s mighty waters and experience a 10-kilometer stretch of pure river rafting fun.

Elsewhere in the city, Eden Nature Park offers activities such as camping, trekking, horseback riding, fishing and even azip line.

TOP THINGS TO DO • Have an animal encounter Or several of them — from the reptiles at the Crocodile Park to the majestic Philippine Eagle at the Philippine Eagle Center.

• Bounce around Try walking over water or rolling down a hill in a Zorb.

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• Hang out outdoors Go for a leisurely afternoon at People’s Park, family fun at the Eden Nature Park or adrenaline-pumping white water rafting at Davao Wildwater Adventure. Scream your hearts at the zipline destinations or ride the thrill at Deca Wakeboard Park.

• Learn about local culture Learn more about the city’s heritage and its people at the Museo Dabawenyo and Davao Museum or inject a dose of indigenous culture at Tribu K’Mindanawan.

• Pamper yourself Enjoy a relaxing treatment at Marco Polo Davao’s Lazuli Spa or in any of the 100-plus spas around the city for that much needed rub-down.

HOW TO GET THERE Air Fly from Manila (less than two hours) to Davao via the Davao International Airport.

Flights are also available from other key cities such as Butuan, Clark, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Dipolog, Iloilo, Kalibo, Puerto Princesa, Zamboanga and even Singapore.

Land Buses are available from Manila and key points in Mindanao, including Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato, Digos, General Santos, Kidapawan, Koronadal, Surigao and Tagum.

Sea There are ferries that travel from Manila to Davao.

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ON THE PROWL. IN THE KNOW

Surviving QuarterLife Crisis with Grace

By Rian Miranda – Riyadh

on. Let’s be honest and admit that we often forget what truly matters when we’re deliriously happy over something that is current, and then stress ourselves once the euphoria begins to fade. So how do you stay positive during this period of doubt as you turn into a fullfledged adult?

with a gift that is meant to be shared as well. Learn to channel your mojo in something you do well. This will definitely heighten your self-confidence and help you understand your purpose in life.

Have an “a year from now…” mantra.

Often, people who complain the most are ungrateful. They look at another’s bowl to see if they have as much as them. These people get so hung up with what they don’t have, and will never be satisfied with whatever is already theirs.

When you feel that something is lacking in your life, try to think for a second if what you’re craving for is something you really need; and if what you already have will be worth losing over it. Remember, there will always be someone who is happy with less than what is yours; and there are others who are praying for what you already own.

Life would be so dull if we don’t change in a year. It would also feel flat if you never experience any ups and downs.

Ask any 30-50 year old on what made them stronger, and chances are, they will say that it was the negative things they went through in their lives. So take comfort that even the most trying of times will change a time. As they say, this too shall pass.

It’s been awhile since I shared some of my thoughts, but I have been on a journey with myself. After doing selfdeliberation, I was able to come to terms - and would totally keep it in mind this time- with what happiness truly is based

The You Online

By Leslie Fiestan – Riyadh Years ago, before technology came it was hard to be connected on a daily basis with family, friends and others who matter to us. I’m glad that we live in a decade where technology allows everyone to be in touch. Such is the power of social media which can either become your ally or your foe.

It’s a known fact that we Pinoys are the largest users of social media, particularly Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. To Pinoys, being connected is such a big deal. Almost everyone we meet or are acquainted with, are added to our FB contacts. But social media has its benefits and it has its disadvantages.

The question is, are you aware of your responsibilities when connecting to people? There are certain dos and don’ts on having an online account, let take a look at some of them Privacy Settings Chose your contacts or who you share

Be self-conscious.

Acknowledging your insecurities and past mistakes helps you in developing your strong points and learning from your weaknesses. Nobody is perfect, but remember that each of us was born

your life with wisely, have a certain audience or “list” of whom you should share your private “ p o s t s ” with.

There will always be haters amongst our friends/contacts, jealousy and critiques even rumors that could sprout from your posts.

Have respect It’s the same thing in the real world.

To earn respect you too should show respect. Don’t go off arguing and posting hate messages, besides it could haunt you one day or might to result to an even worse situation.

Don’t Brag Does one have to announce their relationship status to the world or if they have recently purchased a Louis Vuitton bag? It’s ok to share your happiness but

Be content.

Follow Rian - Instagram: msrianmiranda, Youtube: www. youtube.com/rianmiranda

how far and how much of your life are you willing to share to the public or your contacts?

Be cautious of people you meet online.

Again like in the real world, don’t trust strangers. Before you start divulging your life to someone you’ve just met, try to find out more about the person. It’s easy to search on the internet.

Always “Think before you click” How many times should we be told this?

This is something we should all practice.

Before you post a photo or a comment, think first about its potential positive and negative outcomes.

Finally, your online account says a lot about your personality and who you are in real life. Don’t lie in order to make your life more interesting or to get attention. Be true and be you on and off line.

Follow Les - http://lesfiestan.multiply. com/, http://lesfiestan.daportfolio.com/

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ONLI IN DA PILIPINS

Ten Types of Pinoy Travellers You Meet Along the Way

By Aby Yap

It’s not just about the destination; it’s the journey. So, you inescapably come across these kababayan tourists/travellers from all walks of life, in every shape and size, with a range of dispositions and pinaghuhugutan. Some you don’t mind hanging out with for the entire trip and even the next one. Others you wonder aloud if you’re sufficiently insured to cover the hazards of an ”Expedition Impossible”

1

The Investor

Their ultimate dream is to travel around the world in it-doesn’t-matter-how-many-days-ittakes as long as they can do it in their lifetime.

With Dora the Explorer as their inspiration, they start young going around the 7,107 Philippine Islands then moving on to ASEAN countries and 20 others they can set foot in without a visa. Because the more passport stamps they have, the better their chances of scoring a US/UK/Schengen visa to conquer the whole world at last.

2

The Perfectionist

Nothing and nobody stand in their way of having a picture-perfect vacation. After all, they book flights and hotels months ahead.

They conduct a thorough research on the must-visit places particularly their economic and political situations, people and culture, language and arts etc. Their itinerary is in Excel file, each tab detailing the activities, timeline (definitely no Filipino time!), and expenses for the day, which they religiously stick to or they’ll have a nervous breakdown.

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3

The Chillaxer

What itinerary? This laidback troupe has their own take on the theory of relativity, i.e. time is relative on one’s vibe. If you feel like idling by your hotel’s pool all day, that museum tour can wait until tomorrow, the next day, or when you’re finally in the mood for looking at lonely relics (which mostly never happens at all for lack of time). They’re the masters of their schedule, the captains of their voyage. Kanya-kanyang trip.

4

The YOLOist

Because You Only Live Once, they long to experience life’s wildly spectacular moments whatever it takes. Armed with courage and a GoPro (for proof of their audacity), they swim with sharks, dive into the sky, climb ice walls, get chased by bulls, or engage in any death-defying activity that sane common people won’t do even if offered the Napoles bathtub wealth. If you aim to live a long, uneventful life, run away from this group.

5

ONLI IN DA PILIPINS The Shutter-Happy

You’ll never find them without a DSLR, digicam, tablet, smartphone, and/or monopod/tripod in hand. These are the first items they pack in their carry-on bags, the reason for their existence. As with everything else, they’re on cloud nine when they take thousands of selfies and groupfies doing the duck face or peace sign, a jump or wacky shot at all the tourist attractions. No, they don’t want your attention; they’re just perpetually KSP, i.e. Kulang sa Pictures.

6

The Hunter

They get awfully excited once the tour guides are done with their talk because the hour they’ve been waiting for has arrived: shopping time. Far and wide, they search for pasalubongs to bring back home- <insert place here> shirts, coin purses/key chains/ball pens bearing the country or city they’ve been to etc—for family and friends, neighbors and colleagues, Manong Guard, Ate Janitress, and most especially the Boss for approving their vacation leave.

7

a jiffy. They know just what to say in the right place at the right time to make you and several others laugh and go “Awww, you’re so witty!” And before you realize it, you’ve already agreed to be their couchsurfing host in their next trip.

10

The Correspondent

Most probably Kara David and Atom Araullo wannabes, they take on the huge responsibility of updating everyone they know on Facebook and Twitter real-time on what they’re up to every minute in every place. They post snapshots of popular spots with complete description, howto-get-there directions, entrance fee rates, and suggested activities to maximize your experience. Warning: they could flood your newsfeed that you’d want to unfollow them with a vengeance or wish they’d lose their internet connection forevermore.

The Converter

Math morons they categorically label themselves, but that drastically changes the minute they enter another country. Suddenly, they’re updated on foreign exchange rates. They’re able to multiply hundreds of dollars by the currency and calculate how much a souvenir would cost in Philippine peso—miraculously even without a handy calculator! Unfortunately, they often end up not buying anything at all because they find everything to be too expensive. Unless they’re just as skilled at shameless haggling.

8

The Freeloader

Their motto: the best things in life are free. Inflight magazine, salt/pepper packets, butter knife, mini soap, shampoo bottle, shower cap, hotel stationery, tea bag etc.—so long as it’s complimentary, they’ll merrily grab it for future use or pasalubong for people they left behind.

They’re on constant lookout for accommodation that includes breakfast buffet on the house, so they can take out some baon covertly wrapped in napkins for when they grow hungry later.

9

The Networker They could be mayors/senators/the president in the near future. Bursting with PR flair, they can make 10 new Facebook, Google+, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Tumblr, Twitter, and/or cell phone friends in

ILLUSTRADO 93

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DUBAI & NORTHERN EMIRATES

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BAHRAIN

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QATAR

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