south e ast asian airlines on - board maga zine
may 2010
Time out Top 10 teenage breaks Insider’s guide
Back to Marcos country
Borgy Manotoc on a tour of Ilocos Ins & outs
Marinduque Hot springs, waterfalls, and diving Inroom
Boracay Resorts
Zuzuni and Fairways & Bluewater
I n ta lk
Boracay Residents on island living
P L U S : S E A I R l a u n c h es l a u n i o n v a c a t i o n p a c k a g es
to Boracay
Photo by Jay Alonzo
The small guide for the big trip
Our InFlight guide to boracay has a 78-page resort listings, featuring some of the hottest resorts and hippest hang-outs, plus a valuable insider’s guide to where to eat, where to go, and what to do on the island. Packed with intelligent information, it’s not small where it matters. B u y a c o p y n o w ! C a l l + 6 3 2 / 8 4 9 0 2 9 5 t o 9 6 o r o r d e r o n l i n e a t w w w . F l y S e a i r. c o m
i n f l i g h t // m ay 2 0 1 0
46
INPLACES 43 InsandOuts
Marinduque: Hot springs, waterfalls, and diving
46 Timeout
Top 10 teenage breaks
60 Back to Marcos country Borgy Manotoc shows us the Marcos hometown of Ilocos Norte, 24 years after the Philippine People Power revolution that ended 21 years of his late grandfather Ferdinand’s government
88 InFocus
Erick Dantoc’s Sagada
Diving suit by Aquamundo; swimsuit by Pink Belter by Lizle Hilario; Location: Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort & Spa’s beach
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 3
i n f l i g h t // m ay 2 0 1 0 INFRONT 09 Editor’s Note
16
38
10 InFormed
What not to miss in May
13 Inthenews 10 Philippine hotels win ASEAN Green Hotel awards
16 InTalk
Five Boracay residents talk about life on the island
27 InTune
6’6”
Architect and interior designer Francis Xavier 6’0” Santaromana on building greener homes and commercial buildings 5’6”
30 InPerson
Me and My Holidays: Cely Sarabia
INvogue 19 Intheshops
5’0”
i n t h e sh op s >i n my bag
19
4’6” 4’0”
Denim is on the fashion hit list this season,
3’6” from classic blues, to acid wash, and cowboyinspired chambrays 24 Inmybag
3’0”
Havaianas’ Anne Arcenas on easy packing
INGOODTIMES 33 InRoom Enjoy the quiet and good food at the four-room
60
Zuzuni Resort
Fairways & Bluewater is not on Boracay’s
White Beach; but it has spacious rooms and private beaches
38 InDulge Restaurants of the month and their best sellers: Spasso’s Italian tapas, Cafe Leona’s wood-fired pizzas, and Umu’s eat-all-you-can sushi
PLUS: seair News / People / Guide may 2010 I SEaIR InFlight 19
33 Concept by SEAIR InFlight Photo by Iren Dornier Styling by Charmaine Palermo Hair and makeup by Aisa Costo Modeling by Ginger Photography equipment by Canon Philippines and John Chua of adphoto
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 5
Editorial
Publishing Director and Executive Editor
Nikos Gitsis Editor
Giselle Javison managing Editor
Monica G. De Leon EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
MARGARITA F. FRANCISCO a r t & d es i g n
Art Director
Jocas A. See Editorial Production Inquiries
editors@flyseair.com
Contributing photographers
Mike Alcid, Ferdz Decena, Wacky Gochoco, Carlos Legaspi, Oggie Ramos, Jeffrey Sonora, Daniel Soriano, Gutsy Tuason Contributing writers
Vicki Aldaba, Chip Childers, Freida Dario, Kristine Fonacier, Jan Lao, Andrea Pasion, Oggie Ramos, Ces Rodriguez a d v e r t i s i n g S a l es m a r k e t i n g
Group Sales and Marketing Director
Delza Apostol Advertising OFFICER
Joy Gutierrez administration and finance officer
ARTHUR VALENCIA
Advertising Traffic assistant
WALDO J. VILLADOS Advertising Inquiries
inf lightads@f lyseair.com editorial board
Publisher
South East Asian Airlines Seair Chairman
Iren Dornier Seair Director
Nikos Gitsis InFlight Editor
Giselle Javison InFlight Group Sales and Marketing Director
Delza Apostol Seair Legal Counsel
Atty. Bernard Bandonell Atty. Celina Cua philippine Copyright©2010
South East Asian Airlines, Inc. SEAIR InFlight Magazine: Units 304 & 306, La’O Center, 1000 Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City 1000 Philippines Tel.: +632 840 2802 (Editorial) • +632 840 2803 (Advertising) Fax: +632 840 2805 URL: www.FlySeair.com
6 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
8 SEAIR InFlight I april 2010
editor’s note
people. places. a dv entur es.
B
reathe some life to those teen years. Your kids’ leisure time need not be all about laptop tapping, texting, Facebook and YouTube surfing and shopping malls in the weekends. While we live in an increasingly exciting wired
InFlight cover model. Bottom, Ilocos Norte’s Paoay Church featured on Insider’s Guide
world, sometimes it’s good to abandon the techno smog, go camping, get some fresh air, swim with the sharks, or travel down a zipline in the tradition of old Indiana Jones; and perhaps, heaven forbid, even get some excitement from a real conversation with a person in the flesh. Find your kid’s Achilles’ heel. Holidays and breaks are a time to encourage a sense of adventure and the enjoyment of the outdoors and the learning of new skills. On pages 46 to 57, Oggie Ramos has 10 time-out ideas that may just impress your teens and nearly-teens. On pages 60 to 71, model Borgy Manotoc takes us on a tour of his hometown Ilocos Norte, birthplace of his late grandfather, former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, and the regular haunt of the Marcos family. Manotoc kindly gave us a rundown of the clan’s favorite places, from unexplored beaches to heritage and adventure sites, and favorite restaurants. Ilocos Norte in recent days, just like the Marcos family, explodes back in the limelight as Imelda Marcos announced this year that she would run for a seat in the national parliament, leading her political brood, with daughter Imee running for governor for Ilocos Norte, and son Ferdinand Junior running for senator. The much publicized announcement was made in Batac and photo ops were taken as usual, with the now 80-year-old Imelda photographed kissing her late husband’s glass coffin. “I am not too old. I can be the country’s grandmother,” Imelda told the press. People and places are always intertwined and for most Filipinos, Ilocos Norte remains a reminder of the Marcoses. Enjoy your read!
giselle javison Editor editors@flyseair.com
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 9
What not to miss in
May
r e p or t b y M a rg i e F. F r a n c i s c o
May
2
May
1-16
I Art Picasso Hotel Explore works of new artists at Artis Corpus Gallery’s art series, featuring oil on canvas works of some of Filipino visual artists who have received international artistic acclaim, such as Norlito Meimban, Kris Jan Gavino, Camille De La Rosa and Anthony Panugao. The gallery is open daily from 10am-7pm Mondays to Fridays and 10am-5pm Saturdays. The Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences is located at 119 L.P. Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City. For more information, contact Art Cabinet Philippines at +63928/ 550 4816
Tears for Fears Live in Manila! Catch the English pop rock duo Tears for Fears as it takes audiences back to the exuberant sound of the ‘80s at its Tears for Fears Live in Manila! concert at the Araneta Coliseum. The Manila concert is part of the four-city duo’s Southeast Asian tour, which includes Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan. For more information, call Ovation Productions at +632/ 532 8883 or visit www.ovationproductionsmanila.com
May
14-16
Defending the Caveman Holding the record for the longest running solo play in New York Broadway history, “Defending the Caveman” goes on the Philippine stage with Joel Trinidad as the caveman. The play, written by comedian Rob Becker, dishes out outrageously funny lines on the battle of the sexes. Catch the play at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium at the RCBC Plaza, Makati City. Directed by Michael Williams and Cathy Azanza-Dy. For tickets, call Ticketworld at +632/ 891 9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph
May
15
Pahiyas Festival Experience hospitality and local color at Lucban, Quezon’s Pahiyas festival, a time when streets come alive with houses covered in kiping (rice flour concoction formed into edible multicolored leaves), lending a fairyland air to the celebration, a tribute to the saint San Isidro for the year’s bountiful harvest. Lucban is also home to the local noodle pancit habhab and Lucban longganisa, a local sausage. To get the most out of your visit, stay the night and trek the next day up the mystical Mt. Banahaw. For more information, visit www. pahiyasfestival.com
May
May
John Mayer Live in Manila
Party with Ferry Corsten
Following a two-night stand in Japan, singer-songwriter John Mayer is coming to Manila for his concert dubbed as the “Battle Studies World Tour”. The concert, which will be held at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds, will feature songs from his latest album Battle Studies that includes “Heartbreak Warfare”, “Crossroads”, “Edge of Desire”, and its carrier single “Who Says”. Mayer won the Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in the Grammys in 2003 and 2007 for songs “Your Body is a Wonderland” and “Waiting on the World to Change”, respectively. For tickets, call Ticketworld at +632/ 891 9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph
Join the Innovation Black Party at A. Venue in Makati Avenue, Makati City with DJ/producer Ferry Corsten, known for his trance anthem “Out of the Blue”, which hit the Top 20 in the UK singles chart, and has since then remixed tracks for the likes of U2, Moby, and Public Enemy, and released three albums. For more information, visit BigFish Manila at www.bigfishmanila.com
16
21
May
28-30
Sabsabong ti Mayo Baguio City comes alive in May with “Sabsabong ti Mayo”, with a Santacruzan parade at the Burnham Park, a motorcade highlighting the beautiful fabrics used in the parade, housing and tourism fair, job fair, and the “Anido” or the bonfire, which serves as thanksgiving for the May flower festival. Young Baguio designers will hold a fashion show on May 29 at SM Baguio City. For more information, visit www.visitbaguiocity.com
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Everyone needs a place to get away from it all, a place to relax and de-stress. At Regency Lagoon we take this philosophy to heart. That’s why we are the first resort in the Philippines exclusive to adults. Here you can truly unwind and be at ease. With nothing to hamper your relaxation, Regency Lagoon redefines the meaning of tranquility
Station 2, Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Tel. (6336) 288-2828 to 32 • Fax (6336) 288-1010 Manila Office: Tel. (632) 3537777 • Fax (632) 3537249 www.regencylagoon.com.ph • resort@regencylagoon.com.ph
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t r av e l
HOT E L S AND R E S ORT S
a r t s AND f a s h i o n
new Buy
And more!
Miami room
Luxury Boracay houses for sale Boracay Luxury Homes will soon launch three of its four upmarket Boracay holiday home developments for sale on the market. These developments include The Cliff, The Bacarra Villas, and Villa Sofia. The fourth development called The Estates is expected to complete construction only in 2012. The project architect is Francisco Manosa and Partners, whose works include Amanpulo in Palawan. The Cliff, built on a cliff that overlooks Bulabog Beach and the Sibuyan Sea on the island’s east side, started construction in 2007 and is almost complete. It will have 10 custom-built houses in all, each with a fantastic sea view. As of press time, only two remaining premium slots are available for sale, each with a 160-degree view of Bulabog Beach and the island’s main White Beach. The Bacarra Villas’ 16 condominium units, situated near the 5thand 6th-hole of the only golf course on the island at Fairways & Bluewater, will finish construction next year. Villa Sofia, a condotel with 22 units located near the 9th-hole golf course of Fairways, is the only development that is now complete and ready for occupancy. The Estates, tucked away on a private cove on Lapuz-Lapuz
Boracay Luxury Homes photo by Daniel S. Soriano
Beach, accessible via Fairways & Bluewater’s gate as it’s within the premises of the resort, is scheduled to start construction in May this year. The homes will have exclusive use of a beautiful 200m stretch of powdery-white sand beach. Boracay Luxury Homes started building custom houses in California and then in Boracay in 2006. They are likewise planning to build homes in Panglao in Bohol and in Palawan. The Cliff house and lot is from 200++sqm-800++sqm in size, with rates from P17 Million (about US $360,000); the Cliff’s house and lot packages range from P23,168,200-P67,625,000, depending on the size of the unit that ranges from 150sqm to 450sqm, with two to five bedrooms; the Bacarra Villa units are from 5sqm to 224sqm, with rates from P17,825,000-P23,345,000; and Villa Sofia, with its unit sizes ranging from 46sqm to 130sqm, sells at P5,520,000-P15,600,000.
For inquiries, call +6336/ 288 1853, +63908/ 880 0605; email info@boracayluxuryhomes.com; visit www.boracayluxuryhomes. com. — Monica De Leon
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 13
r e p o r t b y M a r g i e F. F r a n c i s c o
eco News
El Nido Lagen Resorts
10 hotels bag ASEAN Green Hotel awards The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has awarded 10 Philippine hotels and resorts the ASEAN Green Hotel Standard for energy conservation and environmental efforts. Five of the hotels received the award for the first time while the other five were recipients the previous year. The second-time awardees are El Nido Resorts (Lagen and Miniloc), Shangri La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, Shangri-La Edsa and Makati Shangri-La. The new awardees are Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Hilton Cebu Resort and Spa, Nature’s Village Resort, Eden Nature Park and Resort, and Marco Polo Davao. The ASEAN Green Hotel Standard is awarded on a property that meets 11 criteria and 25 requirements including use of green products, noise pollution control, wastewater treatment and management and human resource development. The 10 Philippine hotels were among the 81 tourism establishments awarded the Green Hotel Standard.
Batanes backpack photography workshop in June Join photographers and travel bloggers Ferdz Decena and Oggie Ramos on a tour of Batanes. Spend four days in Batanes from June 24-27 improving your skills in outdoor and travel photography. This four-day workshop will take place in Batan and Sabtang islands. Lessons include light and exposure, use of filters for better exposure and people and environmental portraits. The workshop fee is P22,000 (with airfare if booked by May 10) and P27,000 (with airfare if booked after May 11). Fee includes accommodation for three nights, meals, transportation, course materials and travel insurance. Registration ends on May 14, 2010.
Limited to 15 slots only. For more information, visit www. ferdzdecena.com/workshops.
JVC launches newest Everio camera JVC has recently launched a new high definition Everio camera with built-in Bluetooth wireless technology to allow work with various wireless devices like smartphone for photo and video tagging. Everio’s GZ-HM550 has it all in one compact, travel-friendly package: a 10.6-megapixel image sensor for recording high quality Full High Definition (HD) video and 9-megapixel digital stills to its 32GB internal flash memory, is equipped with the Konica Minolta HD lens that offers 16x dynamic zoom without degradation of picture quality, Super LoLux that improves low-light sensitivity to capture clear images, a LED light and flash, and an advanced image stabilizer to ensure steady images even while walking. The JVC Everio GZ-HM550 is designed and developed to fit any video shooting lifestyle and is available in leading camera and appliance dealers nationwide.
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What makes you happy? I n t e rv i e w s b y F r e i da V. Da r i o
Ill u s t r at i o n b y M a r k Dav i d A . s e e
The sun, the clear waters, the wind, kiteboarding, Bulabog Beach, and the local kids – my friends! This is paradise. I loved Manila for a while but Boracay provided me with the balance I was looking for. I was assigned with a big challenge: to take charge of the opening of a hotel. It can get tough; but with good people surrounding you, a nice beach to kiteboard in, low tide and flat waters to enjoy during the early morning before work, smiling kids that always say ‘hello’ and try to chat with you even for a while, and the Boracay community – This is life!
- Dani Aliaga
Resort manager, 7Stones Boracay Resort
Spending lazy Sundays with friends on the beach. For me, watching the sunset is bliss. Not everyone gets to work and engage in play at the same time. Amazing food, excellent company, a relaxed rhythm are why some of us stay longer than usual. It’s home.
- Roxanne Castillo
Chef, Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort and Spa
I am happy because I am not only blessed to be working in one of the world’s best spa resorts but also to be residing in one of the world’s most breathtakingly picturesque islands, where 5pm means admiring a beautiful sunset or taking an afternoon beach walk rather than sitting in my car in bumper-to-bumper rush hour traffic. I wouldn’t exchange this for anything in the world. This is happiness – finding my true quality of life!
Waking up at sunrise, seeing the peaceful morning loom over the beach, feeling the fresh morning breeze on my skin and heading out to sea with my kite. The feeling of interacting with nature and being one with the elements is what gets me going. It gives me a sense of freedom being out at sea, with the sensual bliss of adrenaline running through my veins while racing through the rough waters and catapulting into the sky. Exploring islands and beaches while journeying the open seas fuels the adventurer in me. Playing with dolphins, seeing reef sharks and manta rays popping out of the water while I go along give me the feeling of being alive! I am happiest being with what nature has to offer us, which is why I choose to live so close to it. So feel free to pop by the kiteboarding school and join me on my next journey!
- Mars Gersbach
Manager, Gasthof Cafe & Deli and Hangin Kiteboarding Center
Traveling. I love meeting new people and getting to know different cultures. Best of all I love the parties on the island! This is why I decided to stay and work here. There’s the full moon parties at Jungle Bar; and all the parties at Hey! Jude Bar are just amazing! I love bartending and entertaining people at the bar and watching people get drunk! That’s my job, and it really makes me happy to see other people having a great time at the bar just as I do.
- Anthony White
Bartender, Hey! Jude Bar
- Malou de Joya
Marketing officer, Mandala Spa & Villas
16 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
Anthony White’s profile photo by Rebecca McHigh
6’6” 6’0” 5’6”
i n t h e sh op s >i n my bag
5’0”
For her: Cropped fitted Rossi jacket, P3,950, and long play shirt, P595, all by Mango; Baxter jeans, P3,095, by Topshop.
4’6”
Best to pair with: Cocktail ring, P590, by Nullah; light blue Bridgeport, P2,640, by Toms
4’0” 3’6” 3’0”
The al u s u un suspects Denims, in all their guises — the classics, acid wash, cowboy-inspired chambrays, torn light blues — are on the fashion wanted list this season, says Waldo Villados P h o t o s b y J e ff r e y S o n o r a
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 19
inTheShops T h e u n u s u a l s u s p e c t s
6’6” 6’0” 5’6” 5’0” 4’6” 4’0” 3’6” 3’0”
For him: Cobalt Kell skinny jeans, P3,095, by Topman; violet checkered polo, P2,798, and black studded belt, P2,498, all by Esprit Best to pair with: Charcoal harbour cordones, P3,705, by Toms
20 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
For her: Bleached shrunke polo, P2,395, by Topshop; Doris denim shorts, P1,950, by Mango; gray belt, P1,998, by Esprit
For him: Pants, P3,498, by Esprit; long-sleeved polo, P2,245, by Topman; red scarf, P3,600, by 7 For All Mankind.
Best to pair with: Turquoise bag, P1,195, by Dorothy Perkins; silver cuff, P590, and snake-like metal necklace, P790, all by Nullah; pewter jewel gladiator jelly sandals, P2,150, by Holster
Best to pair with: Seaport vegan classics, P2,970, by Toms
6’6”
6’0”
5’6”
5’0”
4’6”
4’0”
3’6”
3’0”
For her: Greta dress, P2,250, and army necklace, P945, all by Mango; multi-strand black necklace, P695, by Promod Best to pair with: Bangles, P695, by Promod; gold triple diamonte jelly sandals, P1,700, by Holster
For him: Chambray shorts, P2,095, by Topman; black shirt, P1,798, by Esprit; craft large metal with deer skin sunglasses, P11,990, by Rayban; black studded belt, P2,498, by Esprit Best to pair with: Seaport vegan classics, P2,970, by Toms; denim bag, P2,545, by Topman
For her: Longline denim shirt with belt, P2,495, by Promod Best to pair with: Hat, P995, and earrings, P595, all by Promod; Madell bag, P2,350, by Mango; black triangle diamonte jelly sandals,P2,000,by Holster
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 21
6’6” 6’0”
6’6” 6’0”
inTheShops T h e u n u s u a l s u s p e c t s
5’6”
5’6”
5’0”
5’0”
4’6”
4’6”
4’0”
4’0”
3’6”
3’6”
3’0”
3’0”
For her: Denim suit jacket, P4,650, and white Ara shirt, P995, all by Mango; reconstructed limited 777 Josefina jeans, P16,998, by 7 For All Mankind; new side street sunglasses, P8,390, by Ray-Ban; metal multi-row necklace, P995, by Promod Best to pair with: Cocktail ring, P590/each, by Nullah; gold classic glitter slip on, P2,970, by Toms
F o r s t o r e l o c at i o n a n d co n tac t d e ta i l s , t u r n t o 22 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
on page 72
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 23
inMyBag
Anne Arcenas-Gonzalez M y t r a v e l li s t:
I n t e rv i e w b y M a r g i e F. F r a n c i s c o
“When packing, my main consideration is the destination. My wardrobe consists of easy pieces in neutral shades that all work well together. My toiletries are scaled down to the essentials. A well-edited suitcase is very liberating! And I always leave some room in my luggage for shopping”
PRO D UC T P h o t o b y J e ff r e y S o n o r a
3 4
Coach Pill Case “An easy way to take my meds wherever I go”
Book (P1,099) “A good read makes waiting at the airport and sitting on a plane more bearable. I’m currently reading “Buying In” – an insightful piece on consumer and brand interaction and extremely relevant to what I do”
5 Bejeweled Havaianas (P2,695)
“Because you always need a good pair of flip-flops when you travel”
6 Blackberry Bold 9700 (available with Globe and Smart postpaid plan) “The technophobe in me switched to this gadget with some resistance,
but it makes work easier and more efficient and now I can’t do without it”
Anne Arcenas-Gonzales is the managing director of Terry S.A., Philippine distributor of the trendy Brazilian flip-flop brand Havaianas
7 Ray Ban Aviators (P5,990) “Shades are a must and aviators are a classic style” 8 Crème de la Mer (P7,400)
1 Tod’s bronze tote bag (P44,000)
9 Tweezerman Travel Kit (P650)
“Light and roomy in a basic color to match anything”
2 J. Crew Cardigan “I easily feel cold and this cardigan in a neutral color keeps me cozy”
“This very rich face cream is a necessity to combat my extremely dry skin” “Has all the essentials to keep eyebrows and nails groomed even on the go”
01
02
03 05
04 06
08
07 09
F o r s t o r e l o c at i o n a n d co n tac t d e ta i l s , t u r n t o 24 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
on page 72
L ov i ng t h e pl a n e t
Green homes, anyone?
Solar panels, skylights and sustainable design are not only trendy, but save you money, says Margie Francisco
The architect’s perspective of the uphill villa in Nasugbu, Batangas, one of the houses designed to have a 360-degree view of its surroundings
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 27
inTune F r a n c i s X a v i e r S a n t a r o m a n a
This spread: A green condominium unit at One Gateway Place, Pioneer, with its lofty design and use of colors that make rooms appear spacious, airy and bright
Architect and interior designer Francis Xavier Santaromana of F.L. Santaromana Designs is one of the new breed of Filipino architects leading the way in building greener homes and commercial buildings. One of his projects, the De La Salle Zobel sports pavilion in Alabang, used integral roof ceiling and insulation, ideal for sound absorption and indoor temperature control because of its built-in heat resistant insulation sandwiched between the roofing sheets and the undersheathing. A skylight allowed natural light to flood in, as Santaromana says, and encouraged natural ventilation, eliminating the need for air-conditioning, thus enabling to save huge amounts of energy consumption. This project won for Santaromana and his F.L Santaromana design team the top prize in the Hunter Douglas Philippines’ Quest for Design Excellence in the commercial category in 2008. They also won the “Excellence in Green Building” for the project concept, which best represents Hunter Douglas’ ideals for green buildings. Hunter Douglas Philippines is known for its eco-friendly window designs and architectural products and has been encouraging architects and developers to build more eco-friendly and sustainable buildings. A sustainable building is that which has minimal impact on the environment. Santaromana says that it relates to choosing materials that do not emit harmful gases in the atmosphere, and the reuse of renewable resources such as rain water, wind and solar energy and particular preference for recyclable materials. Santaromana, who has a bachelor’s
28 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
and master’s degree in architecture from the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City, used principles of sustainable design in such projects as the Punta Fuego Resort in Batangas, Canyon Woods in Tagaytay and most of the De La Salle Zobel campus buildings. He says that to have a sustainable building or an eco-friendly home requires a big investment. “From the choice of quality materials, the added openings, heat insulation, and the equipment and provisions for solar heaters and rain water collection system, all come at a price.” But he also points out that this is just the beginning. “And if you think long term, then the savings will be realized.” For example, a typical home would spend an average of P3,000
per month on water heating alone. If the cost per panel is about P150,000, then heating cost comes free in about four years. For those building their homes, he suggests being green is not only about savings on your personal pocket or to the least, a break-even on your initial investment. It is about savings for a bigger cause, a contribution to helping preserve the environment and our health as well. It’s about building your home for you, your children, and your neighbors as well for the next generations to come. For more information on green homes, check out www.greenhomebuilding.com or www. thegreentheory.com.
Cely Sarabia is a jewelry distributor and owneroperator of Best Western Boracay Tropics and Hotel Celeste in Makati
M e a n d m y tr av e l s :
Cely Sarabia I n terv iew by Mon ica De Leon
Which was your most memorable holiday in the Philippines? It was a disaster that led to something good. In the 80s, we always stopped by Boracay after a stay in Kalibo, my husband’s hometown. We would stay in nipa huts at Bamboo resort. There was no electricity. I had to fan my then small children for them to get to sleep. I’d always say, “tomorrow, we’d pack and leave.” And then the next day, my kids would see the pristine beach and spend the whole day again swimming and we’d stay another day. The following year, my brother-in-law booked us in a resort in Boracay with an air-conditioned room. I issued a check, which the resort accepted. When we got to Boracay, with all our luggages and kids in tow, we found out that the resort was so full and not one room was allocated for us. We had no choice but to go back to Bamboo resort. The owner of the resort coaxed me into buying my own property on the island. We bought a 1,000sqm lot and built nipa huts, intended as a vacation home for us, which we eventually rented out. We called it Rainbow Villa. In two years’ time, I already got a return of investment. There were less than 10 resorts on the island then. Ours was all duplex with a beautiful garden and small restaurant. Now it’s Boracay Tropics, all of 4,000sqm. And the best hotel you’ve stayed in? The Shangri-La Makati and Edsa. ShangriLa Edsa in itself is like a resort, surrounded by lots of greenery. I used to call it my second home. I’d go to their gym twice a week, in the morning, with a friend, and afterwards we’d have a meal there and sometimes get a massage.
photo by da n iel s. sor i a no
What do you have to have for a perfect holiday? Nice room, good food, good location — with a nice view, near the shopping area and the church.
for evening and when it’s cold; telephone charger, all my skincare essentials concocted for me by my dermatologist, Dr. Isabel Nazal. I’ve been using Ahava moisturizer from Israel for the longest time.
If you want to get pampered, where do you go? Let’s Face It at SM Hypermart. I go to Nail Tropics in Eastwood for manicure, pedicure, foot spa. They have very relaxing chairs. I discovered Angelo Falconi III Salon Professionals (tel: +632/ 805 1396) in Alabang. The stylist Angelo is quite good.
Any travel advice? Pack light; always take a sweater with you because it sometimes gets cold on the plane; drink lots of water and carry a moisturizer to avoid skin dehydration because extreme weather can cause your skin to get really dry.
Favorite resto? CiCou for French; Boracay Tropics for patatim (pork thigh in sweet sauce); Century Seafood Restaurant at Century Park Sheraton Hotel for seafood and laureate; Summer Palace at Shangri-La Edsa and Shang Palace at Shangri-La Makati for Chinese. Where do you go shopping? In the few instances that I do, I go to Shangri-La Edsa Plaza mall. My favorite shop is Zara. Where do you want to holiday next? Batanes. I’m a nature lover. For home shopping? I get artists. I just renovated my house in Green Meadows. Andy Galutera did the interiors. My customized furniture are by Jenny De Dios (JDI). What do you always take with you? L’Occitaine for toiletries; for perfume, Ralph Lauren Blue for daytime and Coco Chanel
Your biggest packing mistake? Forgetting to pack my chargers and cell phones. One time in Italy, I got cold because I wasn’t appropriately dressed. I also forgot to pack my gloves on my trip to China. The worst hotel you’ve stayed in? There’s this nondescript hotel in a remote area in Hongkong. My college friends took care of the booking. The hotel was very rundown with cockroaches coming out at night. A client sent his chauffeur-driven limo to pick me up from the hotel and take me to the airport when we were checking out and I asked my friend to stand in front of a more decent-looking hotel on the next block because I was so embarrassed to show where we stayed. What do you avoid on holiday? Taking phone calls. What do you hate about holidays? When I can’t find the food that I want to eat. When abroad, after a while, you’d crave for some rice, or at least some homey Oriental food. may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 31
inroom > indulge Zuzuni’s Suite 2
book Now
Charm in a little package Enjoy the quiet and good food at the four-room Zuzuni resort, says Oggie Ramos Photos by Oggie R amos
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 33
inRoom Z u z u n i
Location. Zuzuni is located along the stretch of White Beach of Station 1 in Barangay Balabag, Boracay. It is a five-minute walk from D’Mall and a few minutes away from the popular bars and tourist hangouts of Station 1. FIRST IMPRESSION. A rather charming three-storey boutique hotel facing White Beach. With just four rooms, it’s an antithesis to the big resort mentality of bigger is better. It’s refreshing to stay in a place where the staff know you by name and where you don’t have to share living space with hundreds of other guests. The look of the hotel is tasteful in a minimalist way. The restaurant design is striking – a red wall lined with ornate mirrors and a long, padded seat that wraps around the wall. There is no pool but who cares when the beach is right in front of you. ROOMS. There are two beachfront suites and two deluxe rooms with no two rooms looking alike. I was booked in deluxe room four, one of the two deluxe rooms, tucked at the back of the hotel. The window opens to the wall of the neighboring structure, hidden by roman shades; though the queen-size bed on top of an elevated platform is spacious. If you want separate beds, book deluxe room three, which has a bigger window that opens to a view of the inland neighbors. But if you prefer a view of the White Beach sunset, opt for the beachfront suites. Both have a balcony with outdoor seating, a nice spot to people-watch while nursing a drink. All rooms use hypoallergenic sheets, and locally sourced organic soap and quality toiletries. fOOd. The restaurant on the ground floor serves Mediterranean and fusion cuisine. Not a lot of places in Boracay serves breakfast very early but Zuzuni does and offers Filipino carbo-loaded favorite Pinoy breakfast of tapa or cured beef and egg, the very filling full stack (trio of pancakes served with butter and maple syrup), or the healthful fruits and muesli along with a cup or two of lavazza coffee. The lunch and dinner fare are excellent as well, with the lamb keftedes (lamb meatballs), vegetarian pizza (fresh veggies and cheeses on pita) among the highly recommended dishes. Never miss the Mati chocolate sin or dark chocolate and vanilla ice cream
34 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
Mati chocolate sin, dark chocolate and vanilla ice cream medley
medley for dessert. The service is quick and efficient, the staff attentive without being intrusive. WE LIKE. The relatively quieter location; the rooms that are well-insulated from the din outside – so even when the Friday and weekend parties go full blast, you are still undisturbed – and its premium amenities; and having a good in-house restaurant with a wide-range menu that comes handy when you just feel like lounging around. VERDICT. Zuzuni appeals to tourists who put a premium on comfort and privacy. It’s ideal for people who want a balance between savoring the party vibe of Boracay and getting some quiet time when the mood calls for it. The real amenities of the island – anything from taking a dip to diving, parasailing to banana boating – can be found out there on the beach so all the hotel guest has to do is to step out into the sun and sands.
essentials Visit www.zuzuni.net; call +6336/ 288 4477; email zuzuniboracay@ gmail.com; visit www.zuzuniboracay@net to book. Rates per room per night with breakfast for two start at P3,200 for deluxe room 4, P3,600 for deluxe room 3, and P5,400 for the beachfront suite, and increases during high and peak seasons respectively. (low season is from June to September; high season is from October to May; while peak season dates are Christmas, New Year’s Day and Holy Week.) How to get there. SEAIR flies daily to Caticlan from Manila and from Clark. Visit www.FlySeair.com or call +632/ 849 0100 to book a flight. SEAIR also offers convenient island transfers from the airport to Caticlan pier all the way to Cagban pier, from which hotel or public transport will take you to Zuzuni.
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inRoom F a i r w a y s & B l u e w a t e r
Balaihara’s deluxe room
Book a room and a beach At Fairways and Bluewater, rooms are spacious and comes with the use of the resort’s private beaches, says Monica De Leon Photo by jocas a. see
FIRST IMPRESSION. Fairways & Bluewater is a 251-room resort in 118 hectares of land that faces Paradise Cove. Confined within the boundaries of a gated development, the resort feels like one of the estate properties in the outskirts of Manila, except it has its private powdery white-sand coves and beaches.
native inspired furniture that complement the off-white tone of the room. The main draw for me aside from the space are the sliding glass doors that open out to a small balcony with a view of holes 1, 2 and 3 of the golf course. Ample natural light comes in so there’s rarely a need for you to switch on the lights.
LOCATION. In central Boracay, accessible via Main Road, and close to D’Mall and Boat Station 1. It faces the Sibuyan Sea, the island’s eastern side. There are complimentary hourly shuttles to Boracay’s D’Mall from 10am to 10pm.
FOOD. Fairways has its own restaurant located at the Clubhouse, serving Filipino breakfast buffet and a la carte meals for lunch and dinner. The numerous restaurants on White Beach and D’Mall are also a few minutes away by shuttle.
ROOMS. I stayed in a deluxe room of the Balaihara unit, one of the resort’s five distinct accommodation structures set in different locations within the resort premises. It’s a 54sqm-room that can easily accommodate four people, has two king size beds, large toilet and bath with hot and cold shower, cable TV, and
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WE LIKE. The spacious rooms, privacy, friendly staff, and the private beaches comparable to the island’s main White Beach. For those into golf, the location can’t be any better. The resort has an 18-hole golf course, the only golf course on the island.
essentials Visit www.fairwaysandbluewater.com; email: fairwaysandbluewater@yahoo.com; call +6336/ 288 5176, 288 3974 or 288 5437. Room rates at Balaihara start at P10,500 (about US $210). Generally, starting rate is P7,250. How to get there. SEAIR flies daily to Caticlan from Manila and from Clark. (Visit www.FlySeair.com or call +632/ 849 0100 to book a flight). SEAIR also offers convenient island transfers from the airport to Caticlan pier all the way to Cagban pier, from which hotel or public transport will take you to Fairways & Bluewater.
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 37
indulge u m u
Teapots
Five types of sashimi
Umu’s interior overlooking the garden
Eat all you can sushi There’s excellent Japanese food and an extensive bar list at Umu, says Vicki Aldaba Photos by Oggie R amos
THE SETTING. The Dusit Thani Hotel Manila. The interior integrates Japanese and Western design, using quintessential Japanese prints, dark wood against expansive windows and dramatic lighting. You have an impression of distinct zones: the Robata grill and bar, the Teppanyaki live cooking tables, and the Western-style dining room. THE FOOD. The menu honors the Robata tradition of sharing and sampling. Try the sashimi gosyumori (P1,190 or about US $24), five different types of fish served with bentade leaf & fresh wasabi. The day I dined with friends at Umu, we had hamachi, salmon, toro, red snapper and marinated mackerel. There’s fusion sushi on the menu, which combines traditional sushi and international condiments such as
38 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
kochijan sauce and cheese. Exploring the extensive bar list, there is the namachozo sake (P1,200), perfect chilled or on the rocks. This sake is typified by its mellow flavor, fresh-fruity fragrance and smooth character. Next, Chef Kiyo Ogawa prepared and served us nankin tofu (P250), hand-made pumpkin tofu topped with prawn, asparagus and wasabi simmered in fish stock with rice wine. From the teppanyaki table, waif steak (150g at P750), ribeye angus with teriyaki mustard sauce. You can choose and make your own ala carte teppan combination. THE SERVICE. Warm, attentive and all-smiles. The staff knew the menu well. THE PRICE. Average price of a full course
meal with drink per person is P1,100++. I recommend their happy hour (Monday to Friday 5:30pm-7:30pm) for eat-all-you-can sushi and robata for P750. If you haven’t indulged, you must go and experience the hotel’s Crossover buffet. Move from one restaurant to the next and savor from a large variety of dishes and regional specialties of three cuisines: Thai (Banjarong), Italian (Tosca) and Japanese (Umu). Sundays at P1,450; child 50%off. THE VERDICT. Delicious possibilities are limited only by the whims of your palate and your appetite.
Umu is located at the Dusit Thani Hotel Manila, Makati, next to the Ayala Center. For reservations, call +632/ 867 3333.
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indulge S p a ss o I t a l i a n T a p a s a n d E n o t e c a
Sicilian lamb chops
Watermelon arugula salad
Spasso’s cocooning colors
Palate pampering
Book the chef ’s table at Spasso and enjoy a procession of Italian tapas, says Ces Rodriguez THE SETTING. Spasso Italian Tapas and Enoteca, launched in November 2009, is on the street level of an equally new building. Run by the same group that operates the steak restaurant 145°F, Spasso is, I’m told by executive chef and president Andrew Chua, the first and only Italian tapas place in the Philippines. The modern interiors have subdued lighting; its tiled floor is black, its walls a dark burnt hue, cocooning you and putting the swirly, velvety orange chair covers to good effect. Seating on one side of the rectangular space, and opposite it, are glassed-in wine racks. The chef’s table lies beyond the wine racks, a private space that can seat 16 and has a view of the kitchen. In the main dining area, you may have to speak above the din of a blender. THE FOOD. Spanish in origin, tapas are small plates of appetizers. Chef Andrew says Italian tapas are “more full-flavored than the Spanish tapas,” and generally uses a lot of herbs. The procession of piccolini served lived up to the
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spiel. The “grilled pig ears…120” was in bitesizes, strewn with minced raw garlic in olive oil. The “mushroom frittata…190” was sweetish, fluffy and layered inside with parmesan bits. We spooned a bit of the tomato sauce of the “meatball Diablo…220” on the frittata. The meatballs were perfectly cooked. Sliced finger chillies packed the punch in the sauce. And the “chicken liver with truffle cream…195” was all of velvety-textured liver, richly deglazed sauce thickened by cream and infused by truffle oil. We were served a “watermelon arugula…290” with radish wheels and a snowy layer of parmesan, “mushroom tartufo risotto…380”, and a platter of “scampi linguine…340”, with another half-a-loaf of Spasso’s rye wheat bread to mop up the sauces. Served is a basket of the bread and a dipping plate of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. We dunked the rye into the roasted “eggplant dip…185”, bypassing the crostini that went with it, made tart by yogurt and lavish by caviar beads unexpectedly popping open their seawater tang. The pineapple
mint smoothie complemented it all. THE SERVICE. Brisk as our plates came in quick succession. Wait staff was courteous and attentive. WHO DINES THERE. At lunch, expats and managerial types who work in the area. At night, office staff on de-stress mode. THE PRICE. Surprisingly reasonable, considering portions can be shared. For non big wine drinkers, order solo bottles of something like Echevarria merlot, priced at a little over P200 each. THE VERDICT. The tapas are so memorable; and the price of each plate encourages you to sample all 20-item piccolini menu on repeat visits.
Spasso Italian Tapas and Wine Bar is at Luxe Residence Bldg., 4th Avenue cor. 28th Street, Fort Global City, Taguig; tel: +632/ 669 7186; URL: www.spasso.com.ph.
Photos courtesy of Spasso Italian Tapas and Enoteca
C a f é Le o n a
The small guide for the big trip Café Sicilian Leona’s lambinterior chops
CafÉ Leona It used to be home to a Vigan poet; but it’s now known for one good thing — irresistible wood-fired pizza, says Ces Rodriguez THE SETTING. The transformed ground-floor of the home of renowned Vigan poet Leona Florentina (1849-1884), after whom the café is named, lies just off Calle Crisologo in Vigan. The dining inside the main door has an alcove on the far end suitable for more private gatherings. The main restaurant is dim, low-ceilinged, a little cramped and cool even at sweltering afternoons, with ice cream freezers akin to European bistros. Window seats have a view of the street. At night, when the weather permits, tables are set on the street, with smoke billowing from the barbecue grill and people nursing cold beers.
Our InFlight guide to boracay has a 78-page resort listings, featuring some of the hottest resorts and hippest hang-outs, plus a valuable insider’s guide to where to eat, where to go, and what to do on the island. Packed with intelligent information, it’s not small where it matters.
THE FOOD. Lunch is buffet style on a table near the bar. If you find your food congealed by the icy blast of air-conditioning, demand reheating. The extensive menu has Italian, Japanes, Vigan’s staple bagnet or twice-cooked pork ribs (P235 or about US $5), spicy pork sausages (P125) and pinakbet or vegetable stew of bitter melon, okra and string beans (P100). Monday night is eat-all-you-can pasta buffet (P160). Tasty, yes, though not especially memorable. The stars of the show though are the thin, crisp, wood-fired oven baked pizzas topped with Vigan’s standby favorites. The Bagnet KBL is a play on the name of the ingredients (kamatis, bagoong and lasong or tomatoes, shrimp paste and onions). The 12” pizza is strewn generously with cubed bagnet, as crunchy and flavorful as the aromatic crust. The pinakbet pizza is equally tasty with veggies melding naturally with the hint of bagoong. Irresistible at P290. THE SERVICE. Solicitous but a bit slow when the place is full. WHO DINES THERE. Tourists and locals alike especially as it’s one of the most written-about restaurants in Vigan. THE PRICE; the verdict. Lunch or dinner for two may cost from P500 to P600. Wine is sold by the glass at P90, tequila at P100 a shot. Go for the pizzas, the convenience, and the rustic vibe but only if you can tolerate the occasional indoor smoker.
Café Leona is located at Calle Crisologo, Vigan City. Tel. +077/ 722 2212. Café Leona photo by Jocas A. See
Buy a copy now! Call +63 2/ 8 49 0295 to 96 or o r d e r o n l i n e a t w w w . F l y S e a i r. c o m
promo t ion
ins & outs
c ov e r s t ory
insider’s gu ide
in focus Pocnoy Beach
Balanacan view deck
The Marinduque Hot Springs Resort
ins & outs
Marinduque: Short break for hot springs, waterfalls, and diving R e s e a r c h b y M a r g i e F. F r a n c i s c o
Marinduque, located south and west of Quezon and north of Romblon, is not just the place for the renowned Moriones festival, marked by a vibrant celebration and colorful parades. It’s also home to some excellent beaches and dive sites, caves, healing hot springs and waterfalls. It’s a 45-minute flight from Manila via SEAIR’s LET 410 to Boac Airport, where there are jeepneys available to take you to any destination of this sleepy province.
Stay. Just five minutes away from
m a p i ll u s t r a t i o n b y r a n dy r . r e y
Marinduque’s mainland is Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa on Elephant Island in Buenavista town. It has 69 villas and hotel rooms, a nine-hole golf course, and a spa. Room rates are between US $420 to $1,320 (about P22,500 per room per night.
Visit www.bellaroccaresorts.com or call +632/ 817 7290 or 328 8831). Tahanan sa Isok is a lovely 15-room
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hotel, a few minutes’ walk from Boac Cathedral and the town museum. Each room is air-conditioned, carpeted, with hot and cold shower and cable TV. A single room
Balanacan view deck and The Marinduque Hot Springs Resort photos by Allen Hipolito Mayor; Pocnoy beach photo by Allan Barredo
with one double size bed costs P800. Visit www.tahanansaisok.com or call +6342/ 332 1231. The Villa sa Aplaya Beach Resort in
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Brgy. Ihatub, Boac is a famous spot to watch the sunset and a perfect venue for stargazing. It has 11 fully air-conditioned rooms, each with 21-inch cable TV, water heater and refrigerator. There’s also a conference room, badminton court, pavilion surrounded with nipa huts ideal for small events and for dining. Room rates start at P1,000. Tel:
+6342/ 332 1881 to 82.
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insAndOuts m a r i n d u q u e Boac Cathedral
• The Marinduque Hot Springs Resort in Buenavista is a spa resort with five hot spring pools at different temperatures, said to help increase blood circulation, eliminate toxins from the body and serve to alleviate body aches and pain, and relax the muscles. There are picnic houses and tree houses for dining, cottages with private pools, air-con rooms, function rooms as well as picnic and camping grounds. Contact Francis Mandita at +63910/
848 4947 or +63905/ 293 1814.
Bellarocca
Dine. There are numerous restaurants, cafes and bakeshops in Boac, Sta. Cruz and Torrijos that serve Filipino food. Kusina sa Plaza (Mercader St., Boac, tel: +6342/ 332 1699) is a restaurant in Boac that serves Filipino food cooked the Marinduque way. Try their spicy ginataang gabi or taro cooked in coconut milk, and fish stew. They also serve homemade pizza and burgers for snacks. You can try their own version of dinuguan or blood stew cooked with a hint of coconut milk. Two restaurants in Gasan offer a variety of dishes. Barbarossa Pub (Tel: +6342/ 342 1383) serves international cuisine while Ristorante D’I Jose (Tel: +6342/ 342 1426) serves Italian and Chinese aside from the usual Filipino cuisine.
Gaspar
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Mount Malindig
SEE AND DO. Marinduque is most popular for the Moriones festival held every Holy Week. Men and women join the festival in colorful Moriones festival
masks and costumes, representing biblical Roman soldiers. Walk through the streets of Boac and visit the Boac Cathedral, more than two centuries old but still intact. Marinduque Musuem, housing a wide collection of ancient Chinese potteries dating back to the Sung and Ming dynasties, is also in Boac. In the town of Torrijos, about two hours’ drive from Boac, is Marinduque’s lovely White Beach, dotted with huts that can be rented for the day for a minimal fee. Its sandy-beach is actually light brown and is a favorite spot for picnics and spending lazy afternoons by the beach. If you’re lucky, you can chance upon fishing folks selling their fresh catch at a very low price. After all, this is home to giant trevallys, tunas, wahoos and dorados. Fronting the beach is the stunning Mt. Malindig, the highest peak on the island at 1,157m. Ten minutes from the Boac town proper is Paadjao Falls in Mogpog. It has multi-layered waterfalls, cascading down into a large pool at the bottom, perfect for a dip.
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• The Balanacan view deck, near the port area, gives you a view of the sea and the islands between Lucena and Marinduque.
DO. Go to Mount Bathala in Sta. Cruz for a spelunking adventure, exploring its eight caves. The Python Cave, one of the must-see caves, is home to pythons believed to be pets of Bathala (the local god). Scale the heights of Mount Malindig, home to different species of wild orchids and other endemic wildlife. You can go island hopping at Balanacan Bay in Mompog and visit the Polo, Maniwaya Islands and Tres Reyes Islands Marine Sanctuary, the latter, likewise a dive destination where you can find a wall with gorgonians and lots of pelagics, and occasionally, hammerhead sharks. Elephant Island is another dive site to explore with its colorful corals. Further round the coast is Torrijos made up of a series of ridges and canyons that are home to large schools of snapper and barracuda.
Gaspar island in Tres Reyes and Mount Malindig photos by Ferdz Decena; Moriones festival photo by Allen Hipolito Mayor; Boac Cathedral photo by Oggie Ramos
promo t ion
Cover Story
Time out Whether it's flying across a zipline down a mountainside to swimming with the dolphins, to cooking with a celebrity chef, Oggie Ramos has top 10 ideas to impress your teenage kids Photos by Iren Dornier Ill u s t r a t i o n s b y D a n M a t u t i n a
Photography equipment by: Canon Philippines and John Chua of adphoto Fashion styling by Charmaine Palermo Hair and makeup by Aisa Costo Modeling by Ginger and Holly Allison, the latter for Ideal People
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 47
01
Cover Story T i m e o u t
Sing & act
Explore the performer in you or just gain some confidence this summer. Enrol at the Philippine Educational Theatre Association's (PETA) children’s theatre, teen theatre or join its basic acting courses. Trumpets Playshop, which counts several celebrities among its alumni, offers a range of classes, from musical theater to modeling. The Trumpets Musicademy offers one-on-one piano, guitar, language and speech classes. Call PETA (tel: +632/ 725 6244, email: petampro@yahoo.com) • Trumpets Playshop is based in Shangri-La Mall, Mandaluyong (tel: +632/ 636 2842, 635 4478, URL: musicademyplayshop.blogspot.com)
02
Rock climb
It's really wall climbing or indoor rock climbing in a controlled environment so you get security with the thrill and develop your fitness gradually. Patio Pacific (tel: +6336/ 288 3888) along Station 1 in Boracay offers two walls: straight and overhang, both rising to 33ft. It costs P302.50 for walk-in climbers and P154 for in-house guests for a whole day session. D’Mall also offers wall climbing at D’Wall (tel: +63922/ 842 7436, URL: www.dwall.com) at P50/climb.
Wall climbing facility at Patio Pacific
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Wall climbing photo courtesy of Patio Pacific
On Ginger (RIGHT): Black cotton harem pants, P1,795, by Volcom available at Aloha Boardsports; blue argyle vest, P2,170, from DC available at Bratpack; gray and white stripe collared shirt, price available upon request, by Levis ladies style; hi-tops sneakers, P3,695, by Zoo York; bangles and belt, stylist’s own. On Holly: Black denim mini and black biker jacket, price available upon request, both by Levis Ladies Style; long loose stripe sleeveless cotton top, P1,570, from Bratpack; leopard print hitops, P3,495, from Punk Rose
Blue-green reversible bandeau bikini top and boy leg bottom, P2,095, and shady green boardshorts, P2,295 both by Volcom available at Aloha Boardsports; yellow flipflops with slip on straps, P1,200, by Havaianas; necklace, P1,080, available at Schu; beaded multi-strand bracelet, P600, and floral bangle, P350, both from Accessorize; feather earrings, stylist’s own
03
T i m e o u t Cover Story
Head for the beach Laiya in San Juan, Batangas has white-sand beaches and dramatic sunsets just three hours by car from Manila. For die-hard beach fanatics, nothing beats the powdery-white sand and party vibe of Boracay’s White Beach, which is just a 35-minute flight via SEAIR. Boracay has hundreds of resorts from modest to luxurious. Try Zuzuni Boutique Resort and Restaurant at Station 1, White Beach (tel: +63922/ 692 6201, email: zuzuniboracay@ gmail.com, URL: www.zuzuni.net) • In Laiya, try La Luz Beach Resort (tel: +632/ 726 6687, email: info@laluzresort.com) or Sabangan Resort (+632/ 667 3997, 914 9640, email: info@ sabangan.com). To get to Laiya, take the South Luzon Tollway, and exit at Batangas-Lucena exit. Drive along the National Road until you see a board with “Star Tollway,” then turn right at Star Tollway (Batangas Expressway) until you get to Lipa exit. Head towards Lipa and to Padre Garcia, Rosario and San Juan
04
Teens enjoying rounds of ultimate (Frisbee) in Boracay
Play ultimate
We associate ultimate to playing fetch with the dog; but these days it has taken on new meaning with the reinvented ultimate sport. Players from two teams have a go at throwing the disc across a 70-yard field to the opposing team’s end zone without running. Sounds easy until you try it. There are several year-round ultimate local tournaments and a national competition held yearly in Boracay. The Philippine Ultimate Association (PUA) holds beginner nights every Monday, 8pm10pm, at the Meralco baseball field, Meralco Complex in Ortigas. The fee for field use for the practice games is P70 (email: mailto:puaboard@gmail.com or puaboard@gmail.com)
Ultimate (Frisbee) photo by Daniel S. Soriano
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On Ginger (left): Sleeveless stripe top with bow design, P1,495, by United Colors of Benetton; slim straight denim, price available upon request, by Levis ladies style; red ballet flats, P2,295, by United Colors of Benetton. On Holly: Stripe shorts, P4,995, by Gas Jeans; white cotton top, price available upon request, by Levis ladies style; royal blue short sleeves , P4,795 by United Colors of Benetton; necklace with charms, P900, and charm bracelet, P600, both from Accessorize; fuschia headband, P69.75, from The Landmark; lace up sandals, P1,699, by Schu
05
T i m e o u t Cover Story
Cook up a storm Celebrity chefs seem to have taken the drudgery out of cooking, resulting in teenage culinary fans. Try chef and baker Heny Sison's workshops for teens. Cooking classes include lessons as basic as dimsum-making to making decadent cakes. One-day courses start at P1,500 while multi-day classes start at P5,000. The Center for Asian Culinary Studies (CACS) offers recreational one-day programs including authentic Chinese/Vietnamese/Greek cooking classes to sessions on making sugar-free desserts taught by chef Gene Gonzales. Lessons cost from P1,700. Full time and short program classes are also available. Heny Sison’s classes are held at 33 Bonnie Serrano Avenue cor. Sunrise Drive, Crame, Quezon City (tel: +632/ 726 5316, 412 7792, 413 2428, email: info@henysison.com) • CACS – Manila is at 455 P. Guevarra Street, San Juan, Metro Manila (tel: +632/ 725 5089, email: cacs@cacschef.com)
06
Paintball warfare
Gotcha's Lazer Maxx, a newer attraction in Greenhills
Paintball figures prominently in corporate team building, but there is no reason kids and families can't have a go at it. Gotcha, the first company to promote paintball in the country, calls the game a combination of childhood tag and hide and seek though far more challenging. Players form two groups, each group aiming to capture the opponent's flag, eliminating opposing players by tagging them with paintballs fired from C02 powered paint markers. For safety, players wear full-face goggles and body vests. Gotcha’s field locations include Alpadi Compound and MMLDC, both along Sumulong Hi-way, Antipolo City, Fontana in Clark, Pampanga, and Corregidor. (tel: +632/ 725 5021, URL: www.gotcha-paintball.com/gotcha.php, www.gotcha-paintball.com/gotcha.php). For inquiries on Lazer Maxx, Gotcha's newest game on offer, call +632/ 727 9948
Cooking class session photo by CACS; Gotcha's Lazer Maxx photo courtesy of Gotcha
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 53
07 Cover Story T i m e o u t
Animal thrills
Enchanted Kingdom in Santa Rosa, Laguna has the latest thrill rides from the space shuttle max, to a 4D discovery theater and karting traks, and a vast theme park to explore. For tiger watching, go to the Zoobic Safari in Subic, the only tiger safari in the country, covering about 50 hectares of forest ground. Visitors get to feed the tigers. Ocean Adventure, also in Subic, has whales, dolphins, sea lions and other sea creatures. You get to swim with the whales and dolphins (P4,200 including park admission). If you don’t want to leave the city, there’s Manila Ocean Park along Manila Bay. Watch the sharks (P450), marvel at the dancing jellyfishes (P150) or watch mermaid performers dance underwater in huge aquaria spread across the park. Enchanted Kingdom (tel: 6349/ 584 3535, 584 4326 or +632/ 830 3535). The park is open from Thursday to Friday at 12pm-7pm and on weekends from 11am-9pm. The fee is P400 on weekdays and P500, weekends. • Zoobic Safari is open daily from 8am-4pm (tel: +6347/ 252 2272 +632/ 895 7142, email: reservations@zoobic.com.ph) • Manila Ocean Park (tel: 632/ 567 7777) is open all year round including holidays; Oceanarium and Jellies is open from 10am-7pm (weekdays) and 9am-8pm (weekends and holidays), Mermaid Show are from Tuesday-Sunday at 10am, 3pm and 4pm respectively • Ocean Adventure (+6347/ 252 9000, email: oceanadventure.com.ph)
08
Fishing in a freshwater lake in Clark
Taal Lake Yacht Club offers camping ($2 or about P100 per day; $3 to pitch a tent overnight) and treks to Taal Volcano (P1,800 for a five-passenger boat for the ride across Taal Lake from Talisay). Clearwater Resort and Country Club in Pampanga offers a really expansive camping ground for up to 500 tents with a view of a freshwater lake and a one hectare forest of acacia trees (P1,000 to pitch a tent). You can kayak, go fishing or boating in the lake. Now, if you’re more into hardcore hiking, consider taking up the Basic Mountaineering Course (BMC). Some of the more reputable groups offering BMC include AMCI Mountaineering Club (www.amci.org. ph), Metropolitan Mountaineering Society (www. metropolitanms.org), Mountaineering Federation of the Philippines (www.mfpi.org), and UP Mountaineers (www. upmountaineers.org.ph). In Boracay, New Wave Divers offers kids over 10 years an introductory dive (P3,500), which includes dives in both confined water and open water. In Palawan, Palawan Divers offers Discover Scuba Diving (P3,800), giving you a chance to get started on diving in a marine reserve. To camp in Batangas, call Taal Lake Yacht Club (tel: +632/ 811 3183, 811 3283, URL: www.sailing.org.ph/tlyc • In Pampanga, contact Clearwater Resort and Country Club (tel: +6345/ 599 5949, email: resort@yats-international.com) • For diving in Boracay, New Wave Divers is at Station 1, Boracay (tel: +6336/ 288 5265, email: info@boracaydiver. com • Or try Palawan Divers in Brgy. Masagana, El Nido (tel: +63921/ 620 5469, email: infos@palawan-divers.org)
Teen action: Camp out, mountain climb, dive 54 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
Fishing photo courtesy of Clearwater Resort and Country Club
Love buzz dark denim overall, P3,495, and purple plaid button down longsleeves, P2,395, both by Volcom; gray v neck cotton top, price available upon request, by Levis ladies style; necklace w/ hearts and charms pendant, P600, and fully sequined mask, P230, both from Accessorize; black and purple hi-tops, P3,495, by Zoo York; hot pink sling bag, P3,495, by United Colors of Benetton
On Ginger (left): Peach printed summer dress, P4,295, by United Colors of Benetton; platoon shirt jacket, P2,595, by Volcom available at Aloha Boardsports; gold rimmed aviators with brown lens, price available upon request, by Tommy Hillfiger available at Lez Lunettes Paris; orange flats, P1,599, from Schu; necklace, P600, from Accessorize; dog tag, stylist’s own. On Holly: Khaki shorts, P5,495, and white empire cut cotton top, P2795, both from Gas Jeans; peach belted jacket, price available upon request, by Levis ladies style; pearl with flowers necklace, P900, from Accessorize; beige body bag, P1,795, by Sisley available at United Colors of Benetton; faux fur tails, stylist’s own
56 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
09 10
T i m e o u t Cover Story
Bubba Gump interior
Get wired
Enjoy free WiFi while sipping a smoothie or cold drink with friends. Check out internet hotspots such as Coffee Bean stores (just get a Swirl Card for P195), all SM and Robinsons Malls; Podium and Shangri-La Plaza malls in Ortigas; all Chili’s and TGIF outlets, Bubba Gump in Greenbelt 5, and Blenz Canadian Café along Dela Rosa in Makati.
Ziplining in Davao organized by Outland Adventures
Zip or roll away
The zipline is perhaps one of the closest you can get to flying. It's a contraption, consisting of a pulley suspended on a cable mounted on an incline, allowing gravity to propel the rider from the top to the bottom of the inclined cable – a ride that usually takes one down a mountainside using a harness attached to a removable trolley. Davao started the zipline craze with its Xcelerator in 2008, the longest zipline in Asia at 1km and the fastest, taking the rider zipping at 100kph. Beginners can try the Zipcity, also in Davao, popular for its accessibility, scenic views and good-for-all-ages appeal. Corregidor Island, about an hour from Manila, has a 200m zipline that connects Corregidor Inn to South Beach, traversing half of the island’s length. At Tagaytay ridge, four 250m ziplines take guests up to 300ft above ground overlooking the forests (P100/one way). Tumble down the hills of Yapak inside a zorb, a double sphere 3m plastic ball. You experience the ride cocooned inside the ball's inner sphere, safe from the impact of the ball hitting the ground, but living every rough and tumble. The ride takes only a few seconds but is a total screamfest. Mystery Spot Adventure Park in Boracay offers the Hydro Zorb that allows up to three riders to splash, slide and twist inside a ball containing water; and Harness Zorb, which straps two riders in a harness inside the ball to roll down the hill. In Davao, book Outland Adventures (tel: +6382/ 224 5855, email: outland_adventure@hotmail.com; Zipcity (tel: +6382/ 271 2626 • In Corregidor, Corregidor Inn (+632/ 834 6857-58, email: mailto:suncruises@magsaysay.com.ph, suncruises@ magsaysay.com.ph • In Tagaytay, Tagaytay Ridge Zipline (+632/ 510 6115, tagaytayzipline@yahoo.com); In Boracay, Mystery Spot Adventure Park (tel: +6336/ 288 1912) • In Davao, Davao Zorb Park (Crocodile Park, Diversion Road, Ma-a, Davao City) F o r s t o r e l o c a t i o n a n d c o n ta c t d e ta i l s , t u r n t o Bubba Gump interior photo courtesy of Bubba Gump; zipline photo courtesy of Outland Adventures
o n pag e 72 may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 57
February 25, 1986, the last day of the Marcoses at the Malaca単ang Palace
insider’s guide
Back to Marcos country
Some 21 years after the People Power Revolution that ended his rule, the late Ferdinand Marcos is still very much present in his Ilocos Norte hometown. Grandson Borgy Manotoc takes us on a tour of the family's bolt-holes St o r y b y M a r g i e F r a n c i s c o
M AP I L L US T RA T ION b y mAR L ON A . SEE
About Our insider Commercial model Borgy Marcos Manotoc, 27, was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, where the Marcoses were once exiled following the People Power revolution of 1986. While he has lived in London, Portugal, and New York during most of his growing up years, Manotoc settled back in Manila in 1998. He frequents Ilocos, where the family patriarch, the late Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos was born, and where the Marcos political heartland remains. His mother Imee Marcos was representative for Batac from 1998-2007 while his grandmother Imelda, 80, is running for political office
File photo courtesy of Business World Library
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 61
I l o c o s N o r t e insider’s guide
Why go now Ilocos Norte, about 488km north of Manila, is known to most Filipinos as Marcos country. The late Ferdinand Marcos, one of the most influential figures in Philippine politics and history, was born in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte; so a tour of Ilocos will not be complete without a visit to his birthplace and mausoleum. Youngest Marcos daughter Irene, Manotoc's aunt, wed in Sta. Monica Church, in Sarrat in what was described as the wedding of the century. Houses along the wedding path were painted and roads, paved. Some Spanish colonial-inspired houses were built for the wedding and still stand. The newlyweds arrived in church in a horse-drawn carriage. History aside, Asian high rollers seem to be more interested in heading for Ilocos's 77-hectare Fort Ilocandia casino, a magnet these days for the Taiwanese, Korean and Chinese. Gone were the days when tourists would visit the resort just to witness Imelda Marcos dancing the night away till three in the morning. If you are more a nature rather than historical buff, check out Ilocos's Maira-ira Point in Pagudpud, a beach to beat all other beaches. Said Manotoc: "Ilocos Norte has so much to offer. If you want to be in the middle of nowhere with nobody around, you can do that. If you want to be in the heart of the city with lots of stuff going around you, you can also do that. In general, it’s just so beautiful. It can offer everything from the most picturesque beaches that will beat everything from Boracay and Palawan. And then you have these totally obscure natural wonders like the cove.” WHERE TO STAY
• "You simply can't ignore Fort Ilocandia (tel: +6377/ 670 9001-15, URL: www.fortilocandia.com.ph). It’s like the heritage of Ilocos Norte. It’s built after a resort in Casa Blanca. The entire structure’s made out of red bricks. It’s a very old hotel but the place is nice because of its charm." Opened in 1983, the resort was said to have been built for the wedding reception of Marcos’ daughter Irene. Fort Ilocandia Resort and Casino is a fine place to play golf while taking in the mountainous scenery or to hit the beach while feasting on seafood, dampa style (shop it fresh and have it cooked your way). Room rates range from P5,600 or about US $112 for standard single/double rooms to P50,000 for the Ambassador suite. "At Fort Ilocandia, you can drive; you can go to the beach, ride the ATV (Automated Transfer Vehicle). They have things like the firing range, extreme gameoriented stuff. The place is nice because of its charm; the furniture’s nice; every room has a nice balcony. When it’s December or January, the weather’s so great. The temperature goes down to about 15 degrees. During the day, you can wear a light jacket. I don’t know if it’s true but they tell me that Ilocos Norte’s getting the Siberian breeze. In the morning, the sun may be glaring; but because of the breeze it’s so cool and the humidity’s not really at all uncomfortable. And at night, it’s really quite chilly. In front of Fort Ilocandia, they have this barbeque and live band set up. It’s sort of like dampa, where everyone has the produce and you just pick out what you want and they cook it for you. You get to enjoy your
meal because you’re by the beach so you get that smell of seawater.
•
Hannah’s Beach Resort (tel: +63928/ 520 6255, URL: www.hannahsbeachresort.com) in Pagudpud is an
Places dear to Manotoc: Top, Sitio Remedios, one of the hotels he recommends; and opposite page, Paoay Church in Batac where his parents wed
18-villa property situated right in front of the famous Blue Lagoon, otherwise known as the Maira-ira Beach. The resort is enveloped by large forests and cliffs and an expansive sea where people can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, mountain trekking, monkey watching, boating and cruising around Patapat Bridge. Room rates range from P2,000/night for standard villas good for two persons to P9,000/night for family suites for nine.
•
Located in Currimao is the 18,000sqm beachfront property known as Sitio Remedios (tel: +63917/ 332 0217, URL: www.sitioremedios.com). The sitio, which is along the South China Sea, is owned by Dr. Joven Cuanang, St. Luke’s Medical Center medical director, who wanted to save his childhood memories. This recreation of a typical mid-50s Ilocano village is furnished with vintage Ilocano furniture and the butaca plantation chairs with elongated armrests. With no television sets in the houses, Sitio Remedios is a destination for people who want to get away from it all. Rates start at P4,000 a night for Kwarto San Antonio, a room with queen-size bed and private bathroom, to P12,500 a night for Balay Batac, a two-floor house with two air-conditioned rooms, kingsize beds and bathrooms.
Paoay Church photo by Bong Bajo; Sitio Remedios photo by Daniel S. Soriano
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 63
insider’s guide I l o c o s N o r t e
baked bricks; the floors and staircases of hardwood; and the sliding windows are made of capiz shells. The house is now a museum of the late president’s memorabilia. The Malacañang of the North is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9am to 11:30am and 1pm to 4:30pm. Entrance fees are P20 for adults and P10 for children.
•
About four kilometers east of Paoay Church is Batac, where you'll find the Marcos Mansion and Mausoleum, where the embalmed body of the late president lies in a glass coffin in an air-conditioned room, with temperature carefully controlled and monitored. Although the late president was born in Sarrat, Batac is considered to be his hometown. The mansion houses a wide array of Marcos memorabilia and collections including family photos, military awards, his writings, and his work desk. The Marcos Mansion and Mausoleum is managed by the Department of Tourism. For appointments, contact the Provincial Tourism Office at +6377/ 770 4242.
•
From left, this spread: Maira-ira Cove in Pagudpud; the Marcos Mansion, now a museum and mausoleum that houses the preserved body of late president Ferdinand Marcos; and the 100 plus year old Cape Bojeador lighthouse in Burgos, Ilocos Norte
WHERE TO GO Paoay Church is a UNESCO world heritage site, one of the “earthquake baroque” style churches that features 24 massive brick reinforcements running along its sides, with walls made of coral rocks, baked bricks, lumber, limestone mortar and sugarcane juice. History has it that the bell tower of this 18th century church was used by the Katipuneros (Filipino vigilantes) as observation post during the Philippine Revolution in 1898 against the Spaniards, and also by the Filipino guerillas during the Japanese occupation in World War II.
•
• Malacañang Ti Amianan (“Malacañang of the North”) overlooks Paoay Lake and was built on a fivehectare land in 1977, inspired by Spanish colonial houses. It is one of the 29 summer residences of the Marcoses built during the Marcos regime. Though a substantial property, it pales in comparison with the other more lavish Marcos residences. It has nine spacious rooms for the family and their guests, and showcases a combination of both Ilocano and Spanish architectural designs. The walls are made of
64 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
On Cape Bojeador: "I don’t really know much about the heritage sites because mostly I stay in the city. But I’m sure you’ve heard of the windmills and the lighthouse Cape Bojeador that overlooks the cliffs and the rock formation and the ocean. From the lighthouse, you’ll see all the beautiful landscapes and the mountains and the sand dunes. The lighthouse is over a hundred years old. It’s a long climb up to the lighthouse on old, metal winding stairs. It’s probably about three-four-storey high. Even the walk to the base of the lighthouse is about two-three storeys. But it’s definitely worth it. It’s all glass and you can actually go up to the top where the light used to be.
• "Maira-ira Cove, to me, is the cove I've been going to since I was eight. I personally don't do resorts. Whenever we go to Pagudpud, we go to Maira-ira. The first time we went there, there was nothing there. Not even a hut, not any form of shelter. That was like five years ago. It was really nice. I don't know how much it's changed – before, you could walk up to like 200 feet to the beach and the water would still be waist deep. It's really, sort of like, paradise. It's probably about 2km long but it has that nice cove. It has a wide beach front, about 40 to 50 feet of sand before you hit water.”
Maira-ira Cove photo by Allan Barredo; Marcos Museum photo by Reynald Nuñez; Cape Bojeador photo by Ferdz Decena
"From the lighthouse, you’ll see all the beautiful landscapes and the mountains and the sand dunes"
I l o c o s N o r t e insider’s guide
WHERE TO TREK AND CLIMB Adams is probably one of more recent nature adventure spots in Ilocos Norte. Go to Bolo River and enjoy kayaking on the 5km stretch with a virgin forest right on the edge of the river. A 45-minute motorcycle ride from Pagudpud to Adams will cost about P100 per person. Reaching the town proper in Adams, you can walk to the Bolo River, which overlooks Mt. Palemlem, said to be the highest peak in Ilocos Norte.
•
•
Tourists can also hike from Bolo River to Anuplig Falls, a 25-foot waterfall with two basins, ideal for swimming.
•
Climb up to the Lovers Peak, a gentle slope of hill of about three hectares located near the town proper. Once
you get to the top, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the Tinamburan mountain ranges.
• Manotoc suggests trying sandboarding on the sand
dunes in Paoay. According to Reny Tan, president of the Laoag Eco-Adventure Development (LEAD) Movement, sandboarding is perfectly safe for everyone, professionals and beginners alike. The 1Degree Mountaineering Group organizes mountaineering activities in Adams, Ilocos Norte. For more information, visit www.onedegreemg.multiply.com or email onedegreemg@ymail.com. For a fee of P2,500, the LEAD Movement can organize a 4x4 ride on the sand dunes, inclusive of sandboarding activities. Contact Reny Tan at +6377/ 772 0538 or +63919/ 873 5516, or visit www.leadmovement.wordpress.com.
Anuplig Falls and Lovers Peak photos by Mon Corpuz; sand dunes photos by Bong Bajo; Sarrat sunset photo by Eric Merced
Counterclockwise, from top left, this spread: Adams attractions: Anuplig Falls, Lovers Peak, sandboarding on a sandy slope, and exploring sand dunes onboard a 4x4. Top right, Sarrat town at sunset
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 67
insider’s guide I l o c o s N o r t e
tel: +6377/ 614 0214) in Paoay, located right across the famous church, is a good place for the original pinakbet pizza. They also have a variety of dinuguan (pig's innards in blood stew) and bagnet (crisp-fried pork).
•
"The Stone House Café (www.tazzascafe.multiply. com, tel: +63927/ 945 7962), located on the Airport From left, this spread: Saramsam pasta at Saramsam Cafe; miki noodles available at Riverside Empanadaan; and the famous Batac empanada
WHERE TO EAT “Whenever I visit the province, I usually do food trips. Batac is the best for food. It’s where you can get the authentic Ilocos Norte empanada (fried thin pastry stuffed with grated green papaya, longganisa or local sausage and egg). Go to Riverside Empanadaan in Batac for empanada and miki (a thick chicken noodle soup).
•
•
"For family gatherings I don't know why my mom likes to invite everyone to Macy’s Diner (Gen. Segundo Ave., tel: +6377/ 770 3551) in Laoag. It's funny because when you get there, you see pictures of James Dean hanging on their walls and stuff like that – and then they serve pinakbet pizza. It's funny because it's a diner, with all that American stuff going on; but at the same time it’s really localized.
•
"Another must try in Laoag City is Saramsam Café (N. Corpuz Bldg., Rizal St. cor. Hizon St., tel: +6377/ 771 5825), which has developed a poque poque variant – topped with a mix of grilled eggplants, cooked omelet style with onions, tomatoes and eggs, along with their inkalti, which is essentially karioka or crisp-fried rice cooked on the table a la fondue.
• "Herencia Café (McArthur St., Barangay 14, Sangladan, 68 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
Road in Laoag, is like two townhouses – the first floor is a rustic old European town restaurant. All the walls are unfinished, white; and the floor is stone tile. Good place for dessert, particularly fondue. You get balikbayans and some of the local politicians as frequent diners.
•
"For the best pancit in the world get pancit Cabagan, a medley of stir fried freshly made noodles mixed with chicharo, Baguio beans, cabbage and topped with boiled quail eggs and crispy lechong kawali or bagnet, at Aling Kikay’s Restaurant in Bacarra Road, Cabagan." TAKE HOME Go to Nagbacalan, Laoag City, for Abel clothing (hand-woven cloth with leaf and floral design) made using the traditional weaving machine called pangab-lan.
• •
For tapuey (rice wine) and bugnay (fruit wine), ask locals for Lola Ingga’s home in Adams.
•
Buy Ilocano t-shirts at the Museo Ilocos Norte, for about P250. Unlike the typical colorful graphic type, Manotoc says that t-shirts bought from the museum is “less touristy looking. The t-shirts are actually designed by Ilocano artists.” The museum is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Located at Gen. Luna corner Llanes Sts., Laoag City. Visit www.museoilocosnorte.com or call +6377/ 770 4587.
Saramsam Café and miki photos by Bong Bajo; Batac empanada photo by Ferdz Decena
"Whenever I visit the province, I usually do food trips. Batac is the best for food. It’s where you can get the authentic Ilocos Norte empanada"
I l o c o s N o r t e insider’s guide
get to know
MARCOS THE MAN: HIS rise and fall
F
erdinand Marcos was Philippine president from 1965 to 1986. He declared war against the Communist party and imposed Martial Law in 1972, assuming absolute legislative power – closing newspapers and tightly controlling mass media, banning demonstrations, strikes and boycotts. Martial Law brought stability and economic turnaround at the price of reduced social freedoms and increased corruption; land reforms were limited; business enterprises were nationalized and handed over to Marcos’ cronies and relatives. The Armed Forces was politicized as well, with officers from Marcos’ home provinces promoted to high ranks; and a Marcos childhood friend became chief of staff of the Armed Forces and head of internal security network. In 1976, the constitution was amended to allow Marcos to continue to rule by presidential decree even after lifting Martial Law. Marcos ended Martial Law in 1981 but continued as president when he won overwhelmingly in the presidential election that same year. In 1983, opposition leader Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr. returned from his political exile in the US only to be assassinated upon his arrival at the Manila Airport, a sad event that served as catalyst to the ouster of Marcos. In 1986, Marcos announced another presidential elections and ran against Aquino's wife, Corazon Cojuangco Aquino. Marcos won again in the election but the results were gravely contested and the opposition and Roman Catholic Church called on Marcos to resign during a “People Power” revolution on Edsa on February 22, 1986. On February 25, 1986, the Marcoses fled the presidential palace and flew to Hawaii. When Marcos was in Hawaii, he was indicted by a federal grand jury in New York for offences including mail fraud, fraudulent misappropriation of property and obstruction of justice. Before his trial in 1989, Marcos died of a heart attack. When the Marcos regime ended, the Philippines was left with the highest debt burden in East and Southeast Asia. The country became bankrupt, unable to meet obligations on its US $24.6 billion debt. When the Marcos government ended, the Philippine debt reached $28 billion. Today, the Ayala Museum has a gallery on the second floor where
Power years: The Marcos family during Ferdinand's height of power
it has a multimedia presentation that chronicles significant events, which include the chaotic 1950s and the violent Martial Law years that led to the People Power Revolution in 1986 so that Filipinos will not forget the painful Marcos chapter in its history. On the flipside, Ilocos remains home to a pocket of loyal Marcos supporters. A town is named Marcos in Ilocos Norte, in memory of the late president’s father, former Ilocos Norte assemblyman Mariano Marcos. The Marcos years are also seen as glamour years. The Marcoses were responsible for the renaissance of arts and literature in the country. There were national art contests, concerts, and the construction of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Folk Arts Theater and the Manila Film Center. Marcos was also the man behind the making of specialized hospitals and institutes like the Philippine Heart Center, the Philippine Lung Center, and the National Kidney Institute. During his last years in power, Marcos suffered from liver and kidney failures.
essentials HOW TO GET THERE By land, Fariñas Bus Terminal in Quezon City costs P500 per way for regular buses and P550 per way for buses with restroom. The trip will take roughly nine hours.
File photo courtesy of Business World Library
GETTING AROUND Ilocos Norte is best explored by calesa, the traditional horse-drawn carriage. A 30-minute tour around the city costs P200. Calesas can seat up to five passengers. Tricycles are good for traveling short distances. If planning to go from town to town, board a mini-bus at terminals near the Provincial Capitol in Laoag City for P80++.
TOURISM CONTACT The Provincial Tourism Office can assist you in getting your itinerary together. Call Tourism Officer Angel Lao at +6377/ 770 4242 or 722 1211 to 20 loc 119. You can also send an email to Ms. Lao at in.tourism@yahoo.com.
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 71
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1/L, Glorietta 3, Ayala Center, Makati City Tel.: +632 813 0107 december - january 2009
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2/L, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Ayala Avenue, Makati City Tel: +632/ 728 4028
• Esprit
SOUTH E AST ASIAN AIRLINES ON - BOARd mAGA zINE
• Nullah
G/F, Glorietta 3, Ayala Center, Makati City Tel.: +632 815 6328
• Tod’s 1/L, Greenbelt 4, Ayala Center, Makati City Tel: +632/ 757 6292
• Toms
Available at Nothing but water, 2/L, Alabang Town Center, Alabang-Zapote road, Muntinlupa City Tel.: +632 850 7861
• Topman 3/F, The Podium, 18 ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City Tel.: +632 631 1049
• Topshop 3/F, The Podium, 18 ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City Tel.: +632 631 1049
• United Colors of Benetton B7, Bonifacio High Street, Global City, Taguig City Tel: +632/ 856 2551
• ZooYork Available at Shoe Salon 2/F, Glorietta 3, Ayala Center, Makati City Tel: +632/ 894 3567
promo t ion
96 SeaiR inFlight
i oCtobeR - novembeR 2008
seair
Vision To provide world-renowned domestic and international airline and aviationrelated services following the highest safety standards. Mission To satisfy customer needs and surpass their expectations and requirements. • To fulfill the requirements of shareholders, business partners, employees and suppliers, following ethical business practices • To foster an atmosphere of team building through commitment and dedication to employees’ welfare and to achieve the highest sense of company identity • To be a benchmark model in the application of Quality Management System in the aviation industry • Our philosophical outlook is to support environmental conservation and community empowerment through educational awareness and direct involvement Quality Policy To provide excellent, safe, and reliable air transport that exceeds customer requirements through continual improvement of the established Quality Management System. Basic Facts and Figures South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR) is a pioneer in Philippine aviation. Since 1995, we have been flying passengers to some of the most beautiful destinations in the world. Consistency, quality and reliability characterize SEAIR’s operations. • Awarded “Best Airline of the Year for two consecutive years (2002 and 2003) by the Philippines’’ Consumers Excellence Award • Serves a total of 15 destinations nationwide. We fly the most number of flights to Palawan and offer the fastest and most number of connections to Boracay • Employs over 200 people ready to provide excellent service to our passengers • Our fleet is made up of four Dornier 328s and six LET 410 UVP-E aircraft for use in scheduled and chartered flights. 78 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
Competitive Advantage EXPERIENCE. SEAIR has been a pioneer in aviation, flying foreign and local tourists to the most remote tourist destinations in the Philippines since 1995. MODERN FLEET. SEAIR operates one of the youngest fleet of aircraft in its segment in the industry. FASTEST FLIGHTS. Our state-of-the-art aircraft allow us to offer you the fastest flights in selected routes, including Caticlan (Boracay) in 35 minutes. HIGH LEVEL OF ENGINEERING AND MAINTENANCE SUPPORT. SEAIR is an International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) authorized third-party repair station. Its services include maintenance service for airframes, power plants, avionics and aircraft interiors. INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS. We continue to innovate in customercentric products that will make traveling more fun and convenient. Other Services Leisure Escape Packages (LEP) We offer one-stop shopping for your next vacation. Hassle-free and competitively priced, our fully packaged vacations include accommodation and air fare. Call us and book now at: Tel. +632 843.7308 E-mail: packages@flyseair.com Charters Our aircraft may be chartered for special corporate and group travel. Our charter specialists will assist you in planning and arranging your special travel. For inquiries call us at: Tel. +632 849.0200 E-mail: charters@flyseair.com Cargo We ensure a safe, secure and reliable delivery of your freight and parcel. For inquiries call us at: Tel. +632 851.5555 E-mail: cargo@flyseair.com.
milestones 1995 Iren Dornier, Nikos Gitsis and Tomas Lopez founded South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR) with two nineseater DO-28 airplanes flying from Manila to Caticlan, and Taytay and Busuanga in Palawan. 1996 SEAIR took delivery of its first LET410 aircraft, a 19seater Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) aircraft, ideal for the small runways of Palawan and other destinations where bigger commercial aircraft could not land. 1996 to 2003 With the success of the first LET410 aircraft operation and the commitment of SEAIR to fly on a regular basis, SEAIR gradually increased its fleet from one LET410 to nine. 1999 SEAIR embarked on a nationwide expansion program. It opened regional hubs in Cebu and
Zamboanga and became the only airline to interconnect the premier destinations in Palawan with its ManilaBusuanga-El Nido-Puerto Princesa service. 2001 to Present SEAIR established a base in Zamboanga in Mindanao. It continues to operate flights to remote Cotabato, Tawi-Tawi and Jolo. 2002 and 2003 SEAIR was awarded “Best Airline of the Year” consecutively by the Philippines largest ‘Consumers Excellence Award.’ 2003 SEAIR’s Quality Management System was certified ISO 9001:2000 compliant by the TÜV Rheinland Group. 2004 SEAIR reached the 1 million passenger mark. SEAIR also acquired its first Dornier 328, launching the “Fastest Flights to Boracay” campaign. 2006 SEAIR acquired its fourth Dornier 328. Its fleet size
allowed it to operate up to 30 flights to Caticlan daily. • SEAIR introduced its online reservations and e-ticketing system the first and only on-line system to offer e-tickets from Manila to Boracay and Busuanga. E-ticketing services later expanded to include Cebu, Clark, El Nido, and Puerto Princesa. • By December 2006, SEAIR’S transactions through its online reservations system reached a record high in Philippine e-commerce. 2007 SEAIR celebrated its 12th year in aviation, the longest running airline, next to Philippine Airlines. SEAIR now offers up to 41,000 seats a month throughout its network and flies up to 20,000 passengers to Boracay a month. 2008 SEAIR launched its first regional flight to Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia in November. SEAIR also started flights to Tablas in Romblon, Daet in Camarines Norte, Baler in Aurora, Batanes in northern Luzon and Borongan in Eastern Samar.
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 79
fleet
Dornier 328 The Dornier 328 is a German built, new generation aircraft with 32 passenger seats. It is one of the fastest and most advanced jetprop in the world. specifications Make: Dornier Powerplant: PW 119B Length: 21.28 m (69 ft 10 in) Wing Span: 20.98 m (68 ft 10 in) Height: 7.23 m (23 ft 9 in) Seating Capacity: 32 + 3 crew Number of planes: 4 Max Take-off Weight: 13,990 kgs (30,843 lbs) Speed: 325 knots
LET410 UVP-E The LET410 UVP-E provides first class comfort, while simultaneously servicing both paved and unpaved airstrips. In the 19-seater class, no plane is better suited for short-haul transport than this aircraft. specifications Make: LET a.s. Powerplant: WALTER M601-E Length: 14.42 m (47 ft 4 in) Wing Span: 19.98 m (65 ft 5 in) Height: 5.83 m (19 ft 2 in) Seating Capacity: 19 + 2 crew Number of planes: 6 Max Take-off Weight: 6,600 kgs (14,520 lbs) Speed: 175 knots
Do-24 ATT No airport required! Let our unique amphibian aircraft bring you and your 15 closest friends to your choice of 7,107 islands in real style. For the latest update on this spectacular aircraft and its progress around the world, visit www.do-24.com.
80 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
FALCON 10 Make: Dornier specifications Make: FALCON 10 Powerplant: 2x Garett TFE 731-1-2-1c on engine, 14.65 kN (3,230lbf) thrust each Length: 13.86 m (45 ft 5.75 in) Wing Span: 13.08 m (42 ft 11 in) Height: 4.61m (15ft 1.5 in) Seating Capacity: 7 + 2 crew Max Take-off Weight: 18,740 kgs Speed: MACH + .85 Max Range: 1700 Nautical Miles Ceiling: 45,000 ft Inflight Entertainment: VCR Video; Flight Watch; Satellite Phone
Falcon 10 photos by Cyrene Leicht
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 81
route map Basco, Batanes
reservations Laoag
makati Ticketing Office Tel. +632 849.0100 Sales Office Tel. +6302 849.0201 to 18 +6302 849.0219
San Fernando La Union
Philippine Sea
Baguio
Metro Manila Domestic Terminal Tel. +6302 851.5555 Fax +6302 891.8711
Luzon
Baler CLARK, ANGELES
Angeles City, Clark SM City Clark Clark Freeport Zone, Philippines Tel. +6345 499.0258 to 59 Fax +6343 499.0329
MANILA
Philippines
Cebu Ticketing Office Tel. +6332 341.4879 Sales Office Tel. +6332 254.9337 +6332 255.0801
Marinduque MINDORO
SEAIR Hangar headquarters Hangar 7224, DMIA Tel. +6345 599.2384 Fax +6345 599.2383
Tablas, Romblon
Busuanga Boracay
South China Sea
Daet
Caticlan
SAMAR Masbate Borongan
PANAY
El Nido
Visayas
Iloilo
Taytay
CEBU
PALAWAN
Boracay Caticlan Airport Tel. +6336 288.7360 +6336 288.7272 Fax +6336 288.7163
Puerto Princesa
Camiguin
Mindanao
Zamboanga Tel. +6362 991.2225 Mobile +63919 333.8520
Sulu Sea
Malaysia SARAWAK
Borneo
82 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
Cotabato
Jolo SABAH
Davao
Zamboanga
Kota Kinabalu
BRUNEI
Cagayan de Oro
Pagadian
Balabac
Puerto Princesa 399 Rizal Avenue Extension Tel. +6348 434.5272 +6348 433.2540
Siargao
NEGROS
Tawi-Tawi
Celebes Sea
General Santos
people
Lulu Jaleco Director for Corporate Planning
Planning and learning Interview by Margie f. Francisco Photo by Carlos Legaspi
I joined SEAIR in March 2006 as the director for Corporate Planning. I do strategic planning for the company, looking at medium and long terms. The airline industry is an exciting and challenging industry. What I like most about working with SEAIR is that there is always an opportunity to learn – from the work itself, my colleagues, the management’s bigwigs, and the people I meet. I also get special assignments that give variety to my work. I can't forget when I attended an aviation conference in Singapore in 2008. Hearing chief executive officers of different airlines share what they had done in their respective airlines to improve profitability was quite fascinating. Another notable experience I’ve had in the company was when we switched to a new reservation system. I was part of the team that oversaw the whole process – from selection of the reservation system down to implementation. After all the difficulties, it was very rewarding to see our sales quadruple within a month’s time after switching to the new online system. I remember I was still new at SEAIR when Nick Gitsis (SEAIR'S co-founder) asked me to buy an airline ticket over the internet. I was so afraid to make a mistake that he ended up doing the booking. Thinking of that makes me laugh, the irony of it; because two years after that I helped set up the new internet booking pages.
Nothing really comes to mind, speaking of frustrations. But I do experience minor bumps like a printer suddenly conking out when one of the executives is standing in front of my desk waiting for the printout of an important paper, or an intricate excel file getting corrupted. To de-stress, I either take a walk or just go to a quiet place and think things over. It helps to step back and analyze the situation. One of the principles that my father instilled in me is in whatever I do, I must do it right. Mediocrity for me is unacceptable. Spare time is spent mostly at home. I occasionally meet friends for dinner in a nice restaurant. Special talents… Does Scuba diving count? I was part of a group that deployed mooring buoys in El Nido and in Tubbataha. Palawan is top of my list of Philippine destinations. I have been fortunate to visit different parts of this province over these past years and each visit presents a totally different experience. One day you see a sea turtle coming up for air, another day a pod of dolphins. I’ve learned that being in such a highlycompetitive industry, you have to be innovative and very quick. Ten years from now, I’ll still be part of the team that will take SEAIR to greater heights.
may 2010 I SEAIR InFlight 83
news news
Spasso and 145° Fahrenheit restaurants give 10% discount to SEAIR passengers
SEAIR launches vacation packages to Thunderbird Resorts Poro Point SEAIR, now flying every Monday, Wednesday and Friday to San Fernando, La Union, has just launched exciting vacation packages to Thunderbird Resorts – Poro Point, the only five-star hotel in Northern Philippine Region. SEAIR is now selling vacation packages to the deluxe Thunderbird Resorts in Poro Point, La Union, a little over an hour’s SEAIR flight from Manila. The basic vacation package starts from P11,954 per person, including roundtrip airfare to San Fernando, La Union, a two-night stay at Thunderbird with daily breakfast, and roundtrip airport-resort transfers. Thunderbird Poro Point is a Mediterranean-inspired resort, its design influenced by the Santorini Islands of Greece. It has 36 rooms set within a sprawling 65-hectare property, with luxury suites located on a 100-foot cliff overlooking a white-sand beach and the South China Sea. Included in the package are 45-minute complimentary land transfers from San Fernando, La Union to Baguio City and vice versa. Baguio is the economic and tourism center of the Cordilleras and is known for its green lung and cool weather all year round.
For inquiries and bookings, call SEAIR Leisure Escape Packages at +632/ 843 7308
SEAIR offers Mothers’ Day promo SEAIR will be offering a special promo in celebration of Mothers’ Day on May 9, 2010. E-ticket purchases (visit www.FlySeair.com) on May 9-15, 2010, with travel period from June 16 to October 15, 2010, are eligible for a P1,430 discount per roundtrip airfare. Just type “seairmothersday2010” in the promo code field when booking online at www.FlySeair.com. The promo is valid for any destination, and valid for limited seats. 84 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
Spasso Italian Tapas and Enoteca at The Fort and 145° Fahrenheit Prime Steaks & Seafood in Quezon City have joined SEAIR’S partner establishment scheme, offering airline passengers a 10 per cent discount on food and beverage, excluding wine. With the two additions, the airline’s partner establishments now total more than 30. SEAIR passengers can claim their discounts by showing their ticket or boarding pass. The discount is valid from March to June 30, 2010. Spasso Italian Tapas and Enoteca (www.spasso.com. ph) is located at Luxe Residence Bldg., 4th Avenue cor. 28th Street, The Fort Global City, Taguig City; while 145 ° Fahrenheit Prime Steaks & Seafood (www.fahrenheit145. com) is located at UG Flr IL Terazzo #35 Tomas Morato corner Scout Madriñan, Quezon City. Together with the other special service advantages of SEAIR such as complimentary transfers from Caticlan Airport to Boracay and vice versa, shortest queues and check-in procedures at the airport, fastest baggage claim, and ‘35 minutes’ fastest flights to Boracay, the privileges in establishments in Boracay and Manila make the SEAIR travel experience more special.
For a complete list of the privileges, turn to page xx. For inquiries, call SEAIR Marketing at +632/ 849 0213, Spasso at +632/ 669 7186, and 145 ° Fahrenheit at +632/ 703 2725 or 332 1954
Be a fan of SEAIR Facebook Fan Page and enjoy exclusive treats SEAIR invites everyone to join the SEAIR Facebook Fan Page. SEAIR Facebook fans are the first to know about SEAIR’s promos and special offers, and have the chance to win SEAIR tickets, concert tickets and other prizes in the raffles and contests. The 6,000th fan Ricky Solomon Dimailig got a free roundrtip ticket to Batanes, and SEAIR raffled off tickets to the Paramore concert held last March 9 to fans who simply tagged SEAIR together with five other friends. Mitch Bardon Nepomuceno, DengDeng Balaga, Aizel Candia Delos Reyes and Lishelle Tungcul bagged the tickets. Currently, the SEAIR Facebook Fan Page has more than 7,000 members, which include people from all walks of life who share the same passion for travel.
Search “South East Asian Airlines” at Facebook to find the SEAIR Facebook Fan Page. For inquiries, contact the administrator at +63918/ 910 6574
Travel directory BORACAY BLUEWAVES BEACH HOUSE Boat Station 1, Balabag Beach T (6336) 288 6544 C (+63917) 629 0189; (+63917) 819 1897; (+63922) 539 6036 www.bluwavesboracay.com BORACAY BEACH RESORT Boat Station 1 & D’Mall T (6336) 288 3208; 288 3130 F (6336) 288 5565 E nenettewindsurf@hotmail.com www.windsurfingboracay.com BORACAY REGENCY Boat Station 2, Balabag T (6336) 288-6111 to 17
Unit 5-B 5th F, W.DEEPZ Bldg., 1033 M.H del Pilar St., Ermita, Manila T (632) 523 8707 / 08 E rsvn@boracayregency.com www.boracayregency.com ESCONDIDO BEACH RESORT Balabag Beach C (+63922) 850 1161
G/F, Torre de Salcedo Bldg., 184 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City, Philippines T (632) 489 8907; 812 4221 E namiresorts@yahoo.com.ph www.namiboracay.com PEARL OF THE PACIFIC RESORT & SPA Boat Station 1, Balabag Beach T (6336) 288 3220
R&G Tirol Bldg., 831 EDSA cor. E. Lopez Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines T (632) 926 0162; 924 4483 E info@pearlofthepacific.com www.pearlofthepacific.ph PINJALO RESORT Boracay Island T (6336) 288 3206 F (6336) 288 3478 E info@pinjalo.com; info@calypso-asia.com www.pinjalo.com SANDCASTLES THE APARTMENTS Boracay Island T (6336) 288 3207 / 3449 C (+63917) 819 3049 E info@boracaysandcastles.com www.boracaysandcastles.com www.tribaladventures.com
35 Scout Lozano St. Brgy. Laging Handa, Quezon City, Philippines T (632) 376 4535 E escondidoboracay@yahoo.com www.escondidoboracay.net
SEA WIND RESORT Boat Station 1, Balabag Beach T (6336) 288-3091 F (6336) 288-3425
LA CARMELA DE BORACAY Boat Station 2, Balabag Beach T (6336) 288 5423 / 5921 / 4376
RM. 305 R&G Tirol Bldg., 831 EDSA cor. E. Lopez Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines T (632) 416 4010; 920 7490 E seawind@prime.net.ph www.seawindresort.net
Teka cor. Kamagong Sts., San Antonio Village, Makati City, Philippines T (632) 895 8048 to 49 E info@lacarmeladeboracay.com www.lacarmeladeboracay.com LA RESERVE RESORT & RESTAURANT Balabag Beach T (6336) 288 3020 F (6336) 288 3017 E info@lareserveboracay.com www.lareserveboracay.com LE SOLEIL DE BORACAY Boat Station 2, Balabag Beach T (6336) 288 6209 to 12
G/F, PJL Corporate Center, 1782 N. Garcia cor. Candelaria Sts., Makati City T (632) 895 1777 loc. 1712, 1714, 1715 E lesoleil@pjlhullier.ph www.lesoleil.com.ph MANDALA SPA & villas Boracay Island T (6336) 288 5858 F (6336) 288 3531 www.mandalaspa.com
SPR REAL ESTATE, INC. T (6336) 288 3631 (Sales) T (6336) 288 5798 (Rental) F (6336) 288 5797 www.sprboracay.com SURFSIDE BORACAY RESORT & SPA Angol Beach T (6336) 288 5006 / 5049
17/F, Metropolitan Bldg., Mabini St., Malate, Manila, Philippines T (632) 338 6899 / 8659 E mail@boracaysurfside.com www.boracaysurfside.com TWO SEASONS BORACAY Boat Station 1 T (6336) 288 4384 to 85
Nena Bldg., 132-A. Bayani St., cor. Araneta Ave., Quezon City, Philippines T (632) 415 4652; 413 5903 E rsvn@twoseasonsboracay.com www.twoseasonsboracay.com
MICROTEL INN & SUITES Diniwid Beach T (6336) 288 4311
WALING-WALING BEACH HOTEL BORACAY Boat Station 1, Balabag Beach T (6336) 288 5555
106 E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave. (C-5), Brgy. Ugong, Pasig City, Philippines T (632) 671 7171 E sales@microtelphilippines.com www.microtelphilippines.com
395, Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City, Philippines T (632) 896 9456 to 58 F (632) 896 9451 E sales@waling.com www.waling.com
NAMI PRIVATE VILLAS Diniwid Beach T (6336) 288 6753 to 55
ZUZUNI BORACAY Resort & Restaurant Boat Station 1, Balabag Beach T (6336) 288 4477 E info@zuzuni.net www.zuzuni.net
RESTAURANT AND DELI ARIA D’Mall, Boracay Island T (6336) 288 5573 FISH BAR D’Mall, Boracay Island T (6336) 288 4026 HEIDILAND DELI D’Mall, Phase IV T (6336) 288 5939 OLE SPANISH TAPAS Y RESTAURANTE D’Mall, Boracay Island T (6336) 288 5573
PALAWAN CLUB PARADISE Regent Bldg., Malunggay Road, FTI Complex, Taguig City, Philippines T (632) 838 4956 to 60 F (632) 838 4465 / 4762 www.clubparadisepalawan.com EL NIDO MANILOC / LAGEN Minilioc Island & Lagen Island
Ten Knots Development Corporation 2/F Builders centre, 170 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City, Philippines T (632) 894 5644 www.elnidoresorts.com EL RIO Y MAR Island Resort Regent Bldg., Malunggay Road, FTI Complex, Taguig City, Philippines T (632) 838 4964 www.elrioymar.com EL NIDO COVE 73 Real Street, El Nido T (632) 838 4956 to 60 F (632) 838 4465 / 4762 C (+63918) 908 1204 www.clubparadisepalawan.com LEGEND HOTEL PALAWAN Malvar St., Puerto Princesa T (6348) 433 9076 F (6348) 434 4276
60, Pioneer cor., Madison Sts., Mandaluyong City, Philippines T (632) 633 1501 www.experiencepalawan.com.ph
CAMIGUIN JOHNNY’S DIVE ‘N’ FUN Yumbing, Mambajao T (6388) 387 9588 www.johnnysdive.com SECRET COVE DIVE RESORT Mambajao T (6388) 387 9084 E info@secretcovecamiguin.net www.secretcovecamiguin.net
CEBU ALEGRE Calumboyan, Sogod Pathfinder Holdings Philippines, Inc. T (6332) 231 1198; 254 9880 (Cebu) T (632) 634 7505 to 08 (Manila) www.alegrebeachresort.com BADIAN ISLAND RESORT & SPA Cebu Capital Commercial Complex-A, N. Escario St. T (6332) 253 6452; 475 1103 F (6332) 253 3385; 475 1101 www.badianhotel.com
MARIBAGO BLUWATER BEACH RESORT Maribago, Mactan Island T (6332) 232 5411 to 14 F (6332) 492 0128 to 29
1120 Cityland-Herrera Towers, 98 Herrera cor. Valero Sts., Salcedo Village, Makati City, Philippines T (632) 817 5751 F (632) 845 0680 MICROTEL INN & SUITES Punta Engaño Road, Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan Island T (6382) 233 2333
106 E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave., Brgy. Ugong, Pasig City, Philippines T (632) 671 7171 www.microtelphilippines.com PLANTATION BAY RESORT & SPA Marigondon, Mactan Island
Suite 906, National Life Insurance Bldg., Ayala Ave., Makati City, Philippines T (632) 844 5024 to 25 F (632) 844 5030 www.plantationbay.com SHANGRI-LA MACTAN Punta Engaño Road, P.O. Box 86, Lapu-Lapu City T (6332) 231 0288 F (6332) 231 1688
2/F, Makati Ave., Shopping Arcade, Shangri-la, Makati City, Philippines T (632) 818 0952 F (632) 893 8503 www.shangri-la.com WATERFRONT MACTAN 1 Salinas Drive, Lahug T (6332) 232 6888 F (6332) 232 6880
27/F, Wynsum Corporate Plaza, 22 Emerald Ave., Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Philippines T (632) 687 0888 F (632) 687 5970 www.waterfronthotels.net
DAVAO MICROTEL INN & SUITES Mamay Road, Lanang, Davao City
106 E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave., Brgy. Ugong, Pasig City T (632) 671 7171 www.microtelphilippines.com PEARL FARM BEACH RESORT Kaputian Island, Garden City of Samal T (6382) 221 9970 to 78 F (6382) 221 9979
1504 Corporate Center, 139 Valero St., Salcedo Village, Makati City T (632) 750 1896 / 98 F (632) 750 1894 THE MARCO POLO DAVAO CM Recro St., Davao City T (6382) 221 0888 F (6382) 225 0111
3/F, Adamson center, 121 Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati City T (632) 893 0888 / 5719 F (632) 840 5111 www.marcopolohotels.com/davao
Erick’s Sagada This is the majestic Bomok-od Falls or the “Big Falls”, at some 150 feet. Dantoc took this shot on a trek of Sagada, in the Cordillera region, northern Philippines in October 2008. He started his trek from Banga’an to Aguid, traversing a steep trail, walking by rice fields for about an hour under the heat of the sun, before reaching the falls right before noon. Dantoc likes outdoor adventures like hiking, camping and mountaineering. His photos have been featured in the Readers Gallery of Outdoor Photographer Online. -- Margie F. Francisco For more of Dantoc’s work, visit www.flickr.com/photos/erickph
Camera: Nikon D80 Lens: Nikkor 18-70mm Aperture: F/8 Shutter speed: 1/15sec ISO Speed: 100
88 SEAIR InFlight I may 2010
Va c a t i o n s a r e A l w a y s i n S e a s o n !
Marinduque
Batanes
El Nido
Boracay For holidays made convenient, call:
+632 843 7308
E - m a i l : p a c k a g e s @ f l y s e a i r. c o m U R L : w w w. f l y s e a i r. c o m
Romblon