JUAN Philippines Magazine by juanphilippines

YOUR ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE

PHILIPPINES

Vol. 7 No. 5

Sunny Dispositions.

More fun in the

Philippines

Maynilad Water Services, Inc

Manila Electric Company

Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation Manila North Tollways Corporation Tollways Management Corporation

Makati Medical Center Cardinal Santos Medical Center Davao Doctors Hospital Riverside Medical Center, Inc. Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital

LETâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MOvE fORWaRD

JUAN is your Ultim

We have transformed the maga

Distributed around the different

JUAN Philippines will rev Philippines, we are the ultimate at www.juanphilippines.com! Wi

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azine to be the number one free travel lifestyle magazine in the Philippines today.

t airports in Manila, Cebu and Clark, in the different call centers in Metro Manila, several hotels, resorts and even in coffee shops around the city.

volutionize the way Filipinos travel. With tips on where to go and what to do in the tour guide on print AND online. Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find a copy of the magazine? Download us th our 50,000 free distribution and an average of 300,000 monthly visitors online

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Fast Facts GENERAL INFORMATION The Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands covering a land area of 115,739 sq. m. (299,764 sq. km.). Main island groups are Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Capital is Manila. Time Zone is GMT + 8 hours. CLIMATE March to May is hot and dry. June to October is rainy, November to February is cool. Average temperatures: 78°F / 25°C to 90°F / 32°C; humidity is 77% POPULATION There are a total of 76.5 million Filipinos as of the latest national census in May, 2000. Population growth is estimated at 2.36 percent annually. Luzon, the largest island group, accounts for more than half of the entire population. LANGUAGES Two official languages --- Filipino and English. Filipino which is based on Tagalog, is the national language. English is also widely used and is the medium of instruction in higher education. Eight (8) major dialects spoken by majority of the Filipinos: Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon or Ilonggo, Bicol, Waray, Pampango, and Pangasinense. Filipino is that native language which is used nationally as the language of communication among ethnic groups. Like any

Philippines · October-November 2012

living language, Filipino is in a process of development through loans from Philippine languages and non-native languages for various situations, among speakers of different social backgrounds, and for topics for conversation and scholarly discourse. There are about 76 to 78 major language groups, with more than 500 dialects. RELIGIONS Some 83% of Filipinos are Catholic. About 5% are Moslem. The rest are made up of smaller Christian denominations and Buddhist. UNIT OF MEASURE The Metric System is used in most trade and legal transactions. ELECTRICITY 220 volts a/c is the common standard. 110 volts a/c is also used, especially in major hotels. CURRENCY The Philippines’ monetary unit is the peso, divided into 100 centavos. Foreign currency may be exchanged at any hotels, most large department stores, banks, and authorized money changing shops accredited by the Central Bank of the Philippines. International credit cards such as Visa, Diners Club, Bank Americard, Master Card, and American Express are accepted in major establishments.

Contents October-November 2012

Fishy Proceedings in

Gensan Resort Fun for Everyone at

Coco Grove Beach Resort Everyday is

Piyesta

Seeking

Siquijor's Sorcery and Sand

Publisher Teddy V. Cruz III twitter.com/teddycruz Creative Director Mike Mesina muiggz_17@yahoo.com Editorial Consultant Cori Gillego Editorial Consultant Eileen Campos Contributors Writers Eileen Campos, Lauren Gaile Denoga, Ron Cruz, Monette Fernandez Photographers Eileen Campos, Lauren Gaile Denoga, Ron Cruz, Monette Fernandez JUAN PHILIPPINES is published bi-monthly by

IDEA BUBBLE MEDIA, INC. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed in this magazine belong to the writers and are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject editorial material. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and artworks will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Every care is taken to ensure that the content of Juan Philippines is fully accurate; however, the publisher and the printer assume no responsibility for the effects arising therefrom. Address all correspondence to: Penthouse I, South Center Tower, 2206 Market St., Madrigal Business Park, Muntinlupa City, Philippines Tel. (632) 771-IDEA; 215-7051 Fax (632) 836-9052

Publisher’s Note Welcome to our October- November Issue. Join us as we go to our next destination, experience, explore and enjoy the 7,107 islands. Plan your trip, Explore a Philippine Destination Now. In this issue, We experience General Santos City, an Experience you won’t soon forget. Explore Siquijor and Let it mystify you with its beautiful scenery. Also in this issue, Roadtrip Experience ala Jollibee. We would like to thank all of you who answered the call to “Be JUAN of us”. We really appreciate your comments and emails of support. Trust that every issue we make, we have you all in mind. We’re excited as we put out another issue of JUAN Philippines Magazine. Juan Philippines Vol. 7 No. 5

Join our ! Like page by searching www.juanphilippines.com now! Follow us on twitter.com/juanphilippines Visit our website www.juanphilippines.com.

Let’s me scrounge a line from our friend Jollibee. Sunny Dispositions. More FUN in the Philippines. We travel far and wide to bring you the best of the Philippines. With more than 7,107 islands, imagine the possibilities. Just Us And No other Philippines- Explore, Experience and Enjoy! JUAN Philippines Magazine is charting another adventure. What are you waiting for? Let JUAN be Your Ultimate Travel Guide!

Teddy Cruz, III PUBLISHER

Philippines · October-November 2012

Travel Tips

In the Philippines, it is always advised to bring clothes for hot weather. Bring light clothes. It’s always safe to have those handy white shirts around. Like in any foreign country, be careful of pickpockets. Always bring that handy insect-repellant. When shopping, always haggle. Mingle with the locals. They always give the best tips. Be adventurous! Pack light. Bring only essentials like sunscreen, medicine, at least two swimsuits, extra plastic bags, a pair of slippers, one formal clothing (just in case), toiletries, camera and extra money. Plan your outfits

prior to leaving to avoid packing too much or too little. Write down all you intend to do to be more organized. Keep your cash hidden in different places just in case you lose something. Make sure you leave some room in your luggage for souvenirs or other purchases. Research about the place before traveling. It's best to be informed about weather conditions, local customs, hangouts, etc.

USEFUL DIALECTS ENGLISH Good Day Good Morning Good Afternoon Good Evening How are you? Thank you Yes No How much? Goodbye Please Im sorry What is your name? Take Care When Who What expensive

TAGALOG Magandang Araw Magandang Umaga Magandang Hapon Magandang Gabi Kamusta ka? Salamat Oo Hindi Magkano? Paalam Pakiusap Patawad Anong Pangalan mo? Ingat Kelan? Sino? Ano? Mahal

BICOL Dios na Marhay na aldaw Dios Marhay na aga Dios Marhay na hapon Dios Marhay na banggi Kamusta po kamo? Dios mabalos Opo/Oho Dae/Wara po Gurano? Paaram Tabi Patawarun mo ako Anong pangaran mo? Mag-ingat Noarin Siisay ano? napakamahal iyan

ILOCANO Naimbag nga aldawmo Naimbag a bigat Naimbag a malem Naimbag a rabii Kumustak? Agyamanak Wen Saan Manu? Agpakadaakon Pangngaasi Pakawan Ania ti naganmo? Ag aluad ka Kaano Asino Ania Nagnginan

October-November 2012 ·

Philippines 11

Baguio

ADVERTORIAL

Road trips are definitely more fun in the Philippines! More often than not, the journey makes for a memorable and fun part of any trip. It’s the bumpy rides, the unexpected detours and unusual sightings, and the interesting people one meets along the way that make the travel tales more thrilling.

or any tourist who wants to truly know why it’s more fun in the Philippines, going on a road trip may just give that genuine Pinoy experience. While tourists flock to the Philippines for its wondrous destinations, travelers on a road trip are bound to find more endearing qualities about the Philippines along the way. From buses to jeepneys, tricycles and pedicabs, the country’s roads and highways teem with amusing subjects that are distinctly and

uniquely Filipino— from the sights and sounds of the bustling city streets to the quiet charm of provincial life. The experience of attending a colorful fiesta to immerse in local culture, for example, becomes more authentic when you ride a jeepney or even a kalesa filled with friendly locals. So does driving to the countryside with vantage views of the mountains, green rice fields, stunning beaches, and making an occasional stop over to get a closer preview of each town’s way of life.

Road Trips. More Fun In the Philippines

Taal lake

PamPanga

ADVERTORIAL And who says that it’s a hassle to travel around an archipelago that is made up of more than 7,100 islands? Island-hopping on a bus or public transport is another exhilarating way to explore the Philippines with numerous companies offering transportation from Metro Manila to different parts of the country via ferries. And regardless of your port of departure, you will surely be greeted by friendly people who are more than eager to give you a helping hand – either offering help in carrying your baggage or giving unsolicited yet helpful tips on where to go and what to do.

And of course, one of the best parts of a long road trip, whether driving or commuting, is getting a taste of the food as you go along. Traveling in the Philippines is not complete without food tripping, and finding a place to stop by for favorite Filipino fares will not be a problem when traveling on the road. From the roadside eateries offering the local town’s delicacies, to visiting any of the Jollibee stores nationwide serving western food suited to the Pinoy palate, one will never fall short of satisfying their cravings. So whether you’re Filipino or a first-time visitor to the Philippines, you can definitely learn more about the country’s wonderful culture and amazing offerings by going on a fun and exciting road trip.

malcaPuya island, coron Palawan

On the road with Jollibee

Laoag Bacarra Tuguegarao 2 Tanza

Vigan

Agoo

Santiago Shell Baguio Legarda Urdaneta Mega Shell Cabanatuan

Luisita Tarlac

Jollibee has more than 750 stores around the country including 173 Drive-thru stores.

Mega Caltex NLEX

Iba SBMA

Petron NLEX Total SLEX Pagsanjan

Molino Tagaytay Junction Lipa

Lucena Highway Naga Panganiban

Legazpi Rizal

Calapan 2

Tacloban Bethany

E. Lopez General Luna Iloilo

La Salle Bacolod Mango Avenue Butuan DT Dumaguete North Road Limketkai Gateway Osamis DT

Iligan Tibanga

JP Laurel Cotabato DT

Digos DT Coronadal Highway

San Jose

Road Trips. More Fun In the Philippines

Calumpang

Gensan Highway

Sometimes it's the journey, sometimes it's the destination—and sometimes, it's both. Whether you’re walking on the magnificent cobblestone streets of Vigan, or feeling the rush of the powerful rapids down the Cagayan River, maximize your road trip experience with the widest network of Drive-Thru stores in the country, Jollibee. Ilocos Norte is teeming with tourist destinations. Visit the church in Paoay, beaches in Pagudpud and the sand dunes in La Paz. Care to escape the heat? Head up to Baguio City and indulge in warm strawberry taho and cool all-day temperatures. If you say Manila, history and diverse culture will first come into mind. Discover the past and present's connection by visiting Intramuros. Camarines Sur is the country's top spot for wakeboarding and has even become a hub for international competitions! Boracay is known for the great beach parties and also a ton of water adventures such as kiteboarding and windsurfing. Cebu is not just famous for its dried mangoes and chicharon pasalubong but also known for its pristine white sand beaches. Bohol's native Tarsier, Chocolate Hills and Loboc River Cruise are just some of the reasons people continually flock to this rich province. Puerto Princesa's Underground River draws in tourists from all over the world! Talk about world-famous!

If you have a hankering for adventure, head south for Cagayan de Oro and partake in the best white water rafting this country has to offer! Davao City is famous nationwide for its Kadayawan Festival. Have a little durian to complete the Dabawenyo experience.

Laoag Bacarra P. Lazaro St. cor. General Segundo Ave. Laoag, Ilocos Norte Baguio Legarda Legarda Road, Barangay Rizal Monument, Baguio City, Benguet Rizal Park Rizal Park, TM Kalaw cor. Ma. Orosa Sts., Ermita, Manila Naga Panganiban Panganiban Drive, Naga City, Camarines Sur Kalibo Aklan Casa Felicidad Martilino cor. Arch. Sts., Poblacion, Kalibo Aklan Cebu Mango Ave. Mango Avenue cor. Juana Osmeña, Cebu City Tagbilaran P. Marcela Plaza Marcela Mall, Pamaong cor. Belderol Sts., Coigon, Tagbilaran City Palawan Rizal Rizal Ave. cor. Lacao St., Puerto Princesa City Limketkai Gateway Ground floor, Gateway Tower 1, Lapasan Hi-way , CDOC Davao Matina McArthur Hi-way, Matina District, Davao City

JUAN's Destination

Fishy Proceedings in general santos By Lauren GaileDenoga

Philippines 路 October-November 2012

GENSAN

October-November 2012 路

Philippines 17

JUAN's Destination

It's now 7:30am and it's a busy day.

We start our day when the clock reads 5am. It's too early for the sun to clock in its sunshine but for the many white soled workers of the GenSan MakarFishport Complex, their day has already begun. Strict policy requires all visitors to register in the guard post by the gate while specially sanitized white boots, available for rent at 30 pesos, is a must for everyone entering the premises. As we enter, we are briefed at the Tourism kiosk beside the Administrative building. The Gen San MakarFishport Complex or the GSMFPC is considered to be the model standard in terms of modernity and sanitation. It sits on a 32-hectare lot consisting of 4 market yards, a refrigeration building, an ice plant and other facilities.

The workers are running about, the occasional shouting of "Kara-kara", which means "Hurry" in the Visayan vernacular, permeates the weighing scales. For now it's the busiest area in the Market Yard 1. Tuna is carried by hand and dangled upside down, I saw numbers ranging from 60 to 120 kilos but on some lucky days, they can boast of catching a Tuna weighing up to 300 kilos. Tuna then follows a hierarchy based on its size and meat quality, classified as A-Grade for export, mostly to Japan and the US, B-Grade to be sent to Manila and/or to one of the 8 canneries operating in Gen San and lastly, C-Grade delegated for local consumption. It comes as no surprise then that this industry brings in US$280 million despite reduced production.

filled with assorted goodies sold by the Muslim communities, including the coveted "Malong" sourced from Marawi or Zamboanga. The malong is priced reasonably at 250- 400, depends on the kind of cloth and the size. Right across the market is what used to be the old fish landing area, now turned into a park. Knock-out Lunch at Gamay Eatery Balbacua is an orange soup that has a mild aroma and serves as one of the must-try delicacies in this part of the Philippines, made with ox feet and accented with a splash of calamansi.One can easily find a carinderia serving this dish. And setting the bar high is GamayEatery's. Their claim to fame is that their Balbacua is boxing champ Manny Pacquiao's favorite.

Magandang Gen San at 9:30am

History Walk at the Plaza Heneral Santos

We have long since left the port, a good thirty minute ride from the city en route to the GenSan Public Market where we can say,“Hello,” to the fishes we just saw earlier. Perhaps the cleanest market I have ever been to, it offers more than the standard edible fare. In the Maranao Market, a whole section located along Cagampang St. is

In the town's center at Pendatun Ave. is where you can find the City Hall, the Plaza Heneral Santos and Gen. Santos' biggest church, Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, a fitting devotion for travelers. The 4.8 hectare park has well-manicured greens, a pond, a water feature and at the center of it all is the General Paulino Santos Shrine, who

Philippines · October-November 2012

GENSAN

The last, but most adventurous, option is a habal-habal ride for about 100-150 pesos.

The Klaja Karst Eco Park in Conel is also a unique must-see sight about 15 km from the city. These sights can be done as separate day-trips with GenSan serving as your home base. Gen San City 101

is the namesake of this city. This monument serves as his and his wife's final resting place in honor of his many achievements. After you had your fill of the city, make sure you'll get a full night's sleep because there's more to the SOCCSKSARGEN region than just GenSan City. This can be your gateway to other exciting and unique destinations such as Lake Sebu, in South Cotabato, which is about 3 hours from the city via Koronadal and Surallah. How about the 1km stretch of sand in Gumasa Beach found in Glan,Saranggani?

* Gen. Santos City is a first class municipality so it's no surprise if you see high quality establishments that are still friendly on the pocket. You can thank either the lucrative tuna economy or the residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; business savvy but one thing's for sure. It's not hard to find restaurants, salons or hotels in this city. * Given that the airport is located in Dadiangas town, getting to Gen. SantosCity proper is still relatively easy, you can either take a taxi, for about 300 pesos or ride a multi-cab for 50 pesos but their schedule is a bit erratic. You can settle for an airconditioned van for 150 pesos taking you straight to the city passing through the National Road.

* Nothing beats the convenience of the tricycles that pepper the streets of the city, with standard rates that range from 8-20 pesos. Your backpacker's budget can surely go a long way. * You can find a place to rest your weary head that suits your needs and budget, with even Manny Pacquiao getting a piece of the hotel industry pie. Go as cheap as P200 for a bed for a night or go for broke on a sweet suite. * Tuna Overload? You can actually get some at a good price by going to the Makar Wharf where they have a shop for those "just-frozenin-the-ice-plant-fish" or some Tuna Tinapa by the Market. No time? Just drop by the Pasalubong Center to get some GenSan souvenirs. * Try to time your visit during the Festivals, either the Tuna Festival, scheduled on the month of September or during the Kalilangan Festival during February and revel in their unique cultural heritage.

October-November 2012 Âˇ

Philippines 19

Discover the country’s ﬁrst world-class science museum, The Mind Museum.

SCIENCE & EXPLORATION

Explore new passions in one city. Satisfy your appetite for shopping and dining at Bonifacio High Street.

SHOP & DINE

From a science museum. To a kilometer-long retail playground. To outdoor art galleries. To interactive parks.

FREE for a limited period only Tickets are available at the Bonifacio High Street Concierge and on the bus (Saturdays and Sundays / from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm).

Take the BGC Hop On, Hop Oﬀ Bus Tour!

Work out a sweat in ﬁtness parks and playgrounds.

SPORTS & RECREATION

TURF BGC

HIGH STREET

SERENDRA

THE MIND MUSEUM

BGC OFFSITE/NBC TENT

Indulge in your passion for the arts with outdoor installations, exhibits and performances open for all.

PUBLIC ART

JUAN's Destination

Philippines 路 October-November 2012

SIQUIJOR

Demystifying

Siquijor Text and Photo by Ron Cruz and Monette Fernandez

Foreboding never felt so ominous. Like folklores that grow wings and perch on top of the roof at night, waiting for the perfect chance to lower its tongue into the belly of an unsuspecting mother, Siquijor's reputation for nurturing hands that curse and hands that heal created a perpetual mist that shrouds the province.

October-November 2012 路

Philippines 23

JUAN's Destination

We rubbed sleep from our eyes and wiped exhaustion from our gaping mouths as the island of Siquijor loomed on the horizon like an early case of teenage acne. The comparison was appropriate for seeing the Land of Fire for the first time. We boarded the hotel shuttle and completely lost control of mental diarrhea over witch doctors while talking to our driver who wore a Hawaiian shirt and a smile. His smile had a flavor of amusement, but we hinted disappointment in it too. Perhaps he was so used to the questions; and having answered them every single waking moment of his working life, he probably thought he already got the word out that Siquijor is not a damned place after all. Renting a motorcycle is the best way to go around the island. If you keep quiet enough and listen enough, you will hear the wind as it makes its way across every strand of your hair. If you look hard enough and dismiss all the worries of your city life, I swear you'd see the coastline emerge from the road that meets the edge of the breakwater. Two days and you would've rounded the island like a shopping mall on a payday-weekend. The island is made enchanting by the presence of what is known as the oldest tree in Siquijor, the 400year old Banyan tree. It's shadows lend themselves to the pool in front of it, creating images of lonely outstretched hands wanting to touch each other. For something that has outlasted everything else, I've never felt the longing to rest so deep that

Philippines 路 October-November 2012

the banyan's roots have outgrown its trunks and stretched for what is said to be an hectare of land. Somewhere in the heart of the island lies the picture of our president's sister welcoming those who side-stepped their way to Cambugahay Falls. A once forgotten place because of the unkept surroundings, the three-tiered falls is now one of the main drags of the province. The steady stream of water is constantly broken by cannonballs attempted by people swinging and jumping off from a vine that hangs near the first level of the falls. Speaking of jumping, the beach of Salagdoong is shadowed by a great rock which is snaked by a giant slide and a protruding platform that encourage anyone with a psychedelic trip to dive deep in the waters of the island. Only the craziest of our Cebuano friends with a strong affinity to religions that promote reincarnation took the dip. They had stories of pain afterwards. Apart from the beaches frequented by people, Siquijor also hides them quiet and abandoned ones. Kagusuan Beach will have you lost first through sleepy towns and under a canopy of trees that winds tirelessly before it rewards you refuge. It is so much like a woman, so many secrets untold. You may find footprints long left behind by countless people and you'll never know which ones she ditched and which ones broke her heart.

SIQUIJOR

Bio

But it's not only the enchanted trees and the layers of falls and the abandoned beaches that capture the hearts of those who kiss the soil of Siquijor. Its locals known to weave spells that penetrate the marrows of your bones and at the same time give you relief from conjured curses will test your faith in people. Like the hotel driver we bombarded with silly questions, we had a notion that if you slight one person there, you are marked for life. If there is such a thing as consciously being nice, that would be us. And so on our last day, an old lady appeared from nowhere and hailed out motorbikes asking if she can get a ride. Of course we said yes and let her hop on. We were half expecting her to disappear as soon as we were about to drop her off or change into something really scary as soon we turn our heads to look at her but she didn't, saving us from peeing in our pants. Instead, she asked us to stop in front of her house and handed us money like we were habal habal drivers. True story. Siquijor smacked our tushes to eternity. Serves us right for believing in scary bonfire stories. Foreboding never felt more ominous, especially when it the universe ends up telling you you are downright wrong.

Ron is a Filipino medical investigator in Singapore and a self-proclaimed artist, photo hobbyist (a guy with a camera), wanderlust and a backpacking enthusiast. He’s allergic to packages tours, iced caramel macchiato is his power source and a DSLR is his weapon of choice. Monette is a corporate training manager and a self proclaimed non-writer because of constant writer's block attacks. She devours books like they are her lifeforce and would actually take a vacation just to concentrate on her novel-of-the-month. Both started traveling together three years ago and has so far conquered thirteen countries and twenty seven Philippine provinces; and churned out 220 articles in their travel blog, www.fliptravels.com.

October-November 2012 ·

Philippines 25

Comfort Zone

Philippines 路 October-November 2012

Coco Grove Beach Resort

Resort Fun for Everyone Text and Photos by Eileen Campos

October-November 2012 路

Philippines 27

Comfort Zone

t Coco Grove Beach Resort, every need for every kind of traveler is provided. For adventure seekers, they have group or custom tours to their very own resort in Apo Island. For those who prefer to be underwater, their own dive shop houses their very own divemaster and complete sets of equipment. Families will enjoy their two pools, one with a swim up bar, and all 800 meters of primo beach real estate. Honeymooners will appreciate that each room has its own patio that overlooks the beach. Whatever your need, they will have a resounding answer to it.

If you want to mix and mingle with the rest of the crowd, Sunset Restaurant is there for you. If you prefer a little bit more romance in your setting, Salamandas Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. Everyone canspoil themselves at how expansive and well-kept the grounds are. It’s a large property that will ensure you the luxury of peace and quiet no matter what part of the resort you are. There are also so many different kinds of rooms to choose from, there’s bound to be a room that will suit your exact need. The beach is long and exquisite. They even have the most diverse marine sanctuary on the island right at their shores – snorkeling from 10 feet from the beach is enough to fill you up with species upon species of beautiful marine life. The food they serve has an international range from in-house made tocino and tapa to international dishes from all over the world – all of it good. Apart from the amenities, food and services, every single one in their

Philippines · October-November 2012

staff goes above and beyond the call of duty to make sure that each guest is satisfied – always, with a smile. From budget family vacations to lush honeymoon retreats or an adrenaline-pumping adventure in and out of the island, Coco Grove really is the best place to go to in the island of fire that is Siquijor.

Serving Spoon

Everyday is Piyesta Day 30

Philippines · October-November 2012

Have a fiesta at Piyesta Resto Bar and KTV! This place is a frontliner in General Santos City must-do’s. The food, the atmosphere, the staff – everything is just worth visiting. Situated in the heart of Gensan, Piyesta serves up the city’s best known tuna in its best dishes. Experience the taste of Gensan fish in their best dishes such as Tuna Lumpiang Shanghai, Kinilaw na Tsada and Tuna Buntot (tail). Not to mention unique offerings such as the cheese-filled deep fried green chilies that they call Kura Sticks and the crispy, crunchy and fish goodness of their Salmon Chips. For those wanting to party it out in private, belt tunes to your heart’s content by reserving one of their KTV rooms. Or if you want to party it out with the rest of the crowd, they have awesome cocktail towers that are all festive, creative and pretty darn tasty. The location is perfect, the crowd is always right, the food remains superb and the drinks keep on flowing. The party, the fun and the festivities will never end in Piyesta. Oh and don’t forget to try the Durian Float, it is to die for. Also, have we told you that they also opened a branch in Davao City?

Piyesta

October-November 2012 路

Philippines 31

Calendar

October 1

THE FEAST OF ST. THERESE OF CHILD JESUS

October 4

October 5

THE FEAST OF ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI

WORLD'S TEACHERS DAY

Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, the

Happy Teachers Day to honor the noble

Feast of Saint Therese of the Little

Patron Saint of Animals. Pet blessings

profession of teaching.

Flower.

are held to celebrate his feast.

October 20-21

October 26

MASKARA FESTIVAL 2012

October 27-28

Muslim Holiday celebrating Abraham's

LANSONES FESTIVAL 2012

Bacolod

obedience when he was willing to sacri-

Camiguin

The festival that made Bacolod famous

fice his son Ishmael. (calculated date for

A grand celebration of the lanzones

began as an event to inspire the locals

2012 pending proclamation)

fruit in the island of Camiguin.

October 27- 29

October 29- 30

Mati, Davao Oriental

Roxas City

Activities include agro-trade fair and

It intends to eclipse the aswang impres-

civic military parade in Mati, capital

sion with the world-class quality of

town of Davao Oriental.

Capiz’ seafood products and warm

EIDUL ADHA

to face the hard times with a smiling face, thus masks with smiling faces are worn by revelers who join the parade.

October 21 @ 6AM STUDIO 23 BRAVE MUDDERS

Nuvali, Sta. Rosa Laguna; Nuvali Boulevard Southbound near Football Field 1

SAMBUOKAN FESTIVAL

ASWANG FESTIVAL

5K Individual / 5K Team /

captivating hospitality of the Capi-

10K Individual

cenos. A festival organized by Dugo

Organizer: Studio 23

Capiznon, Inc.

Philippines · October-November 2012

Calendar

November 9-15

November 13

Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental

Indian New Year Festival of Lights

SANDUROT FESTIVAL

DIWALI FESTIVAL

November 17

KAHILWAYAN FESTIVAL/ CRY OF STA. BARBARA

Is a joyful celebration of the people

Sta. Barbara, Iloilo

of Dumaguete, their innate hospitality,

It is a cultural festival in a dance-drama

friendliness, and their propensity to live

form which is a reenactment of sort of

harmoniously with people of different

the struggle for freedom by our very

race, religion, and cultural beliefs.

own local folks led by the heroic Gen. Martin G. Delgado.

November 18-19

November 23

Anini-y, Antique

Angono, Rizal

MAHARLIKA SUNRISE FESTIVAL

It is inspired by a local custom whereby

Male devotees carry the image of San

The Sunrise Festival is a celebration of

a wedding feast is observed no matter

Clemente in a procession that features

arts for service and blessedness held

how poor or humble the bride and

parehadoras, clad in colorful garb

annually in the different regions of

groom are in this celebration.

and wooden shoes, and carrying boat

Maharlika (Philippines).

URUKAY FESTIVAL

HIGANTES FESTIVAL 2012

November 23-25

paddles and higantes (giants) 10 feet tall papier mache puppets.

November 23-25 KERYGMA CONFERENCE 2012 Manila The Biggest Catholic Charismatic Event

November 28 HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY!

November 30 BONIFACIO DAY Philippines Regular Holiday. Birth Anniversary of Andres Bonifacio

in the Country.

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