Experience Travel and Living Vol.7 No.1 2011 by Experience Travel and Living

CONTENTS

Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa, located in Elephant Island, off the coast of Lipata, in the municipality of Buenavista, Marinduque, merges the beauty of nature, sophistication in design and impeccable service for a luxurious getaway. Accommodations are designed to offer the visitor a taste of Mediterraneanstyle relaxation and organic pleasure fused with local cultural flavors and influences. Aside from the 21 deluxe rooms, three junior suites, six one-bedroom suites, and ten two-bedroom terrazas found ABOUT THE COVER in the main hotel, there are also six cliff side villas and four garden villas with balconies and verandas that offer a pristine view of the Sibuyan Sea and the majestic volcanic peaks of Mount Malindig on neighboring Marinduque main island. PHOTO BY DONALD TAPAN.

Travel Features

Explore 18 Gigie Arcilla-Agtay discovers the wonders of Awao, Monkayo, Compostela Valley 20 Ayo Gunting invites everybody to visit Sultan Kudarat

Experience 24 Raymund Magno Garlítos immerses in nature and luxury at the Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa 30 Gesel Mangilit gets the thrills at the Dahilayan Adventure Park in Bukidnon 36 Gesel Mangilit summons all courage for the Dahilayan ZipZone 38 Samal Island gets ready for summer and tourists

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Exalt 44 Kaamulan Festival of Bukidnon displays its ethnic colors 48 Deni Rose Afinidad marvels at the Panagbenga: Baguio Flower Festival 56 Gesel Mangilit joins the Sinulog Festival of Cebu

Escape

Endeavor 92 The Basta Pinas domestic travel advocacy campaign

60 Niña Elyca Rabadam stays at the Residencia Boracay

Other Departments Accommodations 64 Pinegrove Mountain Lodge 66 Forest Park Lodge Arts and Culture 72 Dinna Dayao takes a deeper look at San Sebastian Church 76 The Philippine International Arts Festival Wellness 84 Gesel Mangilit gets pampered at the Nurture Spa Village in Tagaytay 88 In the healing embrace of Aum Spa of Crimson Resort and Spa in Cebu

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

Dining 94 Gesel Mangilit savors Creole cuisine in Cagayan de Oro at the Bourbon St. Bistro 97 Fine Filipino dishes at the Bistro Remedios in Malate, Manila Encounter 99 Gesel Mangilit gets up close with Elpidio Paras Transport 100 Finnair flies to Singapore

Regular Sections 6 Publisher’s Note 12 Contributors 8 Editor’s Note 14 Postings

102 Travel Directory 106 Travel Calendar

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Publisher’s Note

Traveling these days has become easy and convenient. Thanks to the local airlines which made the fares easy on the pocket. Everybody is now traveling from north to south and from east to west. Aside from that, off-the-beaten-path destinations are being showcased and promoted by word by mouth. These made our local tourism active. As a traveler myself, there are many places I still want to visit and discover. And believe me we have not even covered half of the Philippines. As we go on in our journey in discovering these “hidden” places, we ask you our dear readers to join us. Ride with us as we explore the Philippines!

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

EDITOR’S NOTE

Editor in chief Roel Hoang Manipon at Balanan Lake in Siaton, Negros Oriental (below); with his babe, Bob Jerezo, doing the zip line in Palinpinon, Valencia, Negros Oriental (middle); at the lobby of the Boracay Regency Resort; and at the Saint Catherine of Alexandria Church in Tayum, Abra (right).

Editor’s Note

We end and start the year with festivities. We have always marked time with celebrations. At the end of the year, we celebrate Christmas as well as thank for the blessings received for the year. Even it was a bad year, we thank for its ending. At the very start of the year, we celebrate to augur rosier one, anticipating more blessings and prosperity. May this year be full of good things. At the first quarter of the year, the calendar is packed with fiestas and festivals. After Christmas, there is the New Year then the Chinese New Year. There are also the grand festivals in honor of the infant Jesus—the Sinulog, the Ati-Atihan and the Dinagyang—as well as minor festivities in other parts of the country. Festivals become almost prevalent during the summers months, especially during May. Many say that the fondness for festivals is a manifestation of the Filipino’s passion for life. This fondness is not distinctively Filipino however. All over the world, festivals and gatherings are held. It is a human thing. In the Philippines, many festivals started out as fiestas, showing devotion to their patron saints. Many are created to promote places, more of a marketing event. Passion for life must go beyond these festivals, which are ephemeral. We must have passion every day, imbuing the mundane with a spiritual dimension. We must passion for our work that it becomes not just work. Our work is not just to generate money but to contribute to the enhancement of our humanity and to our heritage. We must care for the environment, for beauty, for things important. We must advocate for something that is right and necessary. We must share something to our fellows, touching their lives and making them meaningful. All of these are borne out of a fascination for, deep appreciation for and keen awareness of life, fomenting a passion for it. It is not something ephemeral. It is not the drinking binge and the carousing. We must drink for life, love and the companionship of good people. In this magazine, we write about different festivals and enjoin people to participate. But more, we strive to tell the meanings, the history, the interesting details for a deeper appreciation and a more colorful experience when one partakes of the festivities. In the process, we also tell the beauty of the Philippines. We also do not hold back if there is something wrong. It is essential for growth and improvement. It is our passion—to travel and to write. In this issue, we are featuring the Kaamulan Festival of Bukidnon. Many laud it as authentic because it is participated in by the ethnic groups of Bukidnon, showcasing their rituals, costumes and traditions. Religious fervor can be felt in the celebration of the Sinulog Festival of Cebu, held in the honor of the infant Jesus, one of the grandest festivals of the country. Relatively newer is the Panagbenga of Baguio, which is concocted to promote the city. Also in this issue, we have more of Mindanao, which is beset with image problem but lush and beautiful. Read the features on Awao in Compostela Valley, Sultan Kudarat, Samal Island and Bukidnon. We are saying celebrate with heart and soul, and travel far.

Roel Hoang Manipon Editor in Chief

Errata: In the article “Discovering Elizabeth’s Hideaway” (page 56) of this magazine’s last issue, we identified Elvie Garcia as the owner of the Elizabeth’s Hideaway

resort. Mrs. Garcia wrote to point out that the owner should be her husband Carlos Garcia. “Though I’m Carlos Garcia’s wife and entertained the group, it is just write to give credit where it is due: to my husband Carlos Garcia, general manager of the resort, who you interviewed and the son of the real owners of the place, Eleno Garcia and his family,” she wrote. In the article “Awakened by Ilocos Norte,” the main photo on page 24 was mistakenly identified as the Currimao rock formations, which should be the rock formations in Kapurpurawan, Burgos. We regret the misrepresentation and oversight. 8

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

Volume 7, Number 1, 2011

ADMINISTRATIVE

EDITORIAL

CELESTINO D. UNTAL JR.

ROEL HOANG MANIPON

Chairman

MARIA EVELYN C. UNTAL Publisher/Managing Director

RUZIELL STO. TOMAS Director of Marketing and Promotions

FE MARCELINO

Editor-in-Chief

GESEL P. MANGILIT Associate Editor

NEIL MARIANO Creative Director

DONALD TAPAN Chief Photographer

Finance/Comptroller

ROSITA RAYMUNDO Credit/Collection

STRATEGIC MINDS MARKETING Advertising/Business Development

RHEA VILLAREAL

DENI ROSE AFINIDAD GIGIE ARCILLA-AGTAY DINNA LOUISE DAYAO RAYMUND MAGNO GARLITOS AYO GUNTING NIĂ&#x2018;A ELYCA RABADAM Contributing Writers

Operations /Administration Officer

FE MARCELINO TEDDY PELAEZ MARVIN ALCARAZ

DENNY ALONZO

Contributing Photographers

Corporate Secretary

GABRIEL AND MENDOZA

CHIQUI TALABIS Sales Officer / Editorial Assistant

Legal Counsel

CIRCULATION INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATIVES LOLITA DUBLIN Liaison Officer in Washington, DC

AITCHITO J. CONEJOS Circulation/Liaison Officer

PRISCILLA C. RAMOS Liaison Officer in Cebu

EVA U. TRIMBLE Liaison Officer in Columbus, Ohio

PATRICIA DUBLIN Liaison Officer in New York

CRIS VINZONS MARIA ESPERANZA SAN JOSE Liaison Officers in Dubai, UAE

NOEL D. UNTAL Liaison Officer in Thailand

JO ANNE C. MABBAYAD Liaison Officer in Singapore

JALILUL C. CONEJOS Liaison Officer in Toronto, Canada

TATAK PILIPINO STORE Circulation/Distribution in Palisade Avenue Jersey City, NJ

Experience Travel and Living magazine is published quarterly by St. Uriel Publishing, Inc., with business address at Unit 7G, Vernida I Condominium, 120 Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1200. Telephone numbers: (+63 2) 4942866, (+63 2) 2276074 and (+63 2) 4915159 Find us at www.issuu.com Email: experiencetravelandliving@gmail.com Web site: www.experiencetravelandliving.com The magazine and its editors assume no responsibility for all manuscripts and photographs submitted. While every reasonable effort is made to verify information, facts and figures, the magazine and its editors assume no responsibility for errors or misrepresentations that may appear in the publication. Opinions expressed in Experience Travel and Living are solely those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by the company and its editors. Printed in the Philippines. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of the magazine may be reproduced in full or in part without prior written permission from the editors.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

Deni Rose Afinidad is

Dinna Louise C. Dayao

a beach party hopper. Even though she’s usually afraid to fly or of the open water, she’s a big fan of backpacking, diving and extreme sports. Her other sources of adrenaline rush are writing for The Daily Tribune and studying patternmaking and fashion construction at Slim’s Fashion and Arts School. Whenever she’s with McQueen or her sewing machine, she feels like a rock star would with his guitar.

(dinnadayao@yahoo.com) is a freelance writer and editor. She calls Manila home. Dinna has written many articles on topics ranging from animal welfare and Asian businesses to food safety and health.

Teddy

Pelaez has a big appetite for action and a bigger appetite for food. He was formerly with the BusinessWorld and worked for Ping Lacson during the presidential election. Now as a freelance photographer, he wants to concentrate on travel photography.

Raymund Magno Garlítos is a journalist, poet, editor, translator and children’s book writer. He has won several Palanca and Talaang Ginto awards for poetry, a Gintong Aklat Award for Best Book in Children’s Literature, grand prize at the Philippine Board on Books for Young People’s Salanga Writers’ Prize and the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) Honour Diploma for Excellence in Translation. Some of his journalistic works have appeared in newspapers like The Manila Bulletin and The Daily Tribune, magazines like Cruising, Art Manila and many others. Under the nom de plume Rhandee Garlítos, he wrote the award-winning and bestselling children’s books Chenelyn! Chenelyn! and May Higante sa Loob ng Aming Bahay (Adarna House) and will have forthcoming books slated for launch this year. When in travel, he makes it a point to bring home delicacies from a place, buy bracelets and necklaces that bear the traits of the places he visited and take photographs on his digital camera without his face on them. Always never at ease at home where he does most of his writing work, he takes time to pet the two dogs and eight cats or smell the fragrances of the herbs and flowers from his fiercely blooming terrace garden or watching TV with his daughter and mother to relax. 12

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son

Donald

Agdangan,

Cajayon

Quezon,

Tapan’s

passion with photography started when journalists from Manila flocked to his small town. He was awed by and fascinated with their fancy cameras. In1968, he made his way to Manila and started showing the city works. He got affiliated with Times Week, Mabuhay, Metro and Mod Filipina. Later, he became chief photographer of The Daily Tribune and The Daily Globe. He has won several awards such as first prize in the Pope John Paul National Photo Contest in 1982 and in the contests of the National Press Club and the Department of Tourism. In the 1980s he delved into fine art photography. In 1991, he flew to New York for his one-man exhibit at the Philippine Center. The following year, he was hired by a well-known advertising agency in Saudi Arabia for a coffee-table book. After almost 20 years of photography, he set up CEO Photography and Designs with big clients, recently providing photography for the coffee-table books Abaca and Coconut. Aside from that, Tapan has been in public service in his hometown for almost 10 years as a councilor and vice-mayor. He says that his legacy is “not only seen as framed photographs in lobbies of hotels and exhibition halls” but instead it “will stay, breathing and alive amongst his children, amongst his students, they who have been impassioned by a man with a dangling camera on his neck.”

Niña Elyca J. Rabadam describes herself as “an enthusiast of different sorts.” She loves reading books, watching films, listening to music, playing the guitar and surfing the net. She can also be considered as an Internet addict, able to bear long hours in front of her laptop surfing for different sites and keeping herself posted about her fave Japanese band Arashi, looking for recent books and movies, and logging on to one of those popular social networking site. She can also survive a whole day lounging at her nearest fave coffee shop with her very reliable laptop she endearingly named Lennie. She loves scouring for second-hand, less expensive, buy-one-take-one books. She is presently on the hunt for Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time series. She fills up Lennie’s disk space with music, contemporary and classic, and collecting music videos of Arashi as well as foreign films. She goes gaga over high-school themed, romantic flicks such as Thailand’s Crazy Little Thing Called Love and The Love of Siam. She devotes a week in July to watching Japanese films during Eiga Sai (Japanese Film Festival) with her best movie buddy, Joey. She is currently the publication coordinator for the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and practices the art of travel and creative writing. Her most fervent dream is to have a one-on-one interview with Mario Maurer and to develop a friendship with Kazunari Ninomiya.

POSTINGS

BRING | Water for Summer and Travel

Eager to make the most of the summer season? Before heading out to enjoy all your activities, remember to keep your body in tiptop condition. Those traveling, engaging in sports or working out must keep proper hydration and rehydration in mind. For starters, a cup of warm water in the morning can give the digestive system a boost. This also starts the day properly, providing the initial amount of water that the body needs. After breakfast and meals, a glass of water also helps. Have water constantly available. Whether at the office or at the gym, or even during other daily activities, a bottle of water keeps one rehydrated, especially after physically demanding chores or routines. Caffeinated or alcoholic beverages can act as diuretics, meaning these can actually cause the body to lose water. Drink water after consumption of coffee, tea and other flavored beverages. Healthy food, specifically fruits and vegetables with high water content, are helpful in restoring the body’s fluids. These are also convenient, filling and nutritious snacks. The summer heat causes the body to lose more water, so it is advised to increase water intake to compensate. Cool beverages are absorbed better than warm drinks during hot weather, and improve the body’s performance in hot temperature. Especially during hot months, active people who work out continuously, or who spend long hours under the sun will need to drink even more water such as Hidden Spring Mineral Water. Tapped from a naturally occurring water source and filtered thoroughly to eliminate impurities, Hidden Spring has essential natural minerals that help replenish the body’s fluids. Hidden Spring Mineral Water is available in 330 milliliter, 500 milliliter, 1.5 liter and 1.5 gallon and is available at supermarkets, groceries and convenience stores nationwide.

FLY | Clark-Macau Flights

South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR) announced it will fly to Macau daily from Clark starting May 27, 2011. “The Clark-Macau route is SEAIR’s third international destination under the Tiger Airways partnership,” said SEAIR president Avelino Zapanta. “The new route offers similar ultra low fares as our Singapore and Hong Kong flights and serves as an important link between Philippines and China for tourists, business travellers, and Filipinos working abroad.” Clark-Macau seats are on sale now at www.FlySeair.com and www. tigerairways.com at a special introductory fare of as low as US$31 or Php1,340 per way for travel on May 27 to October 29, 2011. Macau offers vacationers a unique mix of Western and Eastern influences through its baroque churches, Art Deco buildings and Chinese temples. In 2005, the Historic Center of Macau, located in the center of the peninsula, was named a UNESCO World Heritage site. It consists of historic residential, religious and 14

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

public Portuguese and Chinese architectural legacies including the A-Ma Temple, Senado Square, Dom Pedro V Theater, Na Tcha Temple, Casa Garden, the old Protestant cemetery and the old headquarters of the British East Indies Company. In recent years, Macau has welcomed on its reclaimed land a number big name casinos, including the Venetian and MGM Grand from the United States, making itself known in Asia as the “Las Vegas of the East.” But amid these modern developments, Macau still maintains its Old World charm albeit with its own characteristic multicultural fusion and invites visitors to immerse in it whether through the partaking of Portuguese delicacies like caldo verde (potato and greens in soup) and bacalhau (salt cod) in Taipa village, seeing the giant statues of Matsu, goddess of the sea, and Kun Iam, goddess of mercy, or simply admiring the view atop the Macau Tower. SEAIR departs from Clark to Macau daily on May 27 until June 30, 2011 at 2 P.M. and flies from Macau to Clark daily at 4:25 P.M. From July 1 to October 29, 2011, Clark-Macau flights will be at 2:25 P.M., while MacauClark flights are at 4:50 P.M. The SEAIR-Tiger Airways Partner Airline Programme allows SEAIR to distribute its seats through Tiger Airways’ established Internet booking system, www.tigerairways.com. SEAIR is the first Tiger Airways partner airline in the Asia Pacific region. SEAIR is the Philippines’ second oldest airline, and is the first airline based in Clark. It has the reputation of having pioneered commercial flights to the country’s fastest growing tourist destinations including Boracay, Batanes and northern Palawan. Now on its 16th year of operation, SEAIR is expanding its reach regionally with its current jet services to Singapore and Hong Kong. For more information, visit www.FlySeair.com. Join SEAIR Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/flyseair for updates on promos and new routes. Established in September 2004, Tiger Airways now operates a fleet of 25 Airbus A320-family aircraft and is committed to increasing its fleet size to 68 by December 2015. The airline operates flights to 37 destinations across 12 countries and territories in Asia-Pacific from four bases in Singapore and Australia. For more information, visit www.tigerairways. com.

VENTURE | Palawan’s Best Kept Secret

Tucked away from the busy tourist spots in Palawan is Arena Island, a luxurious private destination that offers a unique, eco-friendly stay for the traveler looking for an authentic getaway trip. Clandestine and unspoiled, this little retreat off the coast of Narra, Palawan, promises an unparalleled respite distinct from the more frequently visited resorts and leisure sites. With its fine white sands, pristine waters and the lush expanse of trees that grow within its four-hectare landscape, Arena Island exudes a restful atmosphere instantaneously felt meters away in the boat ride approaching this exclusive, tropical paradise. Once there, one will find that the island is a paradox: secluded yet modern, lavish yet eco-friendly. While Arena Island offers a communewith-nature experience, its accommodations beautifully combine design elements both rustic and contemporary, reminiscent of a retreat house off the Caribbean. Enriching one’s private stay are the exclusive services of highly trained locals including professional chefs and butlers who dutifully delight guests with native dishes using the freshest catch of the day. Also, complementing the cool breeze rolling up the beautiful waters of Arena Island is the soothing massage work of first-rate masseuses. Home to the now endangered sea turtles, Arena Island is a noteworthy sanctuary for marine life preser-

vation in the country. By keeping the island unmarred through responsible tourism, Arena Island, along with the people who visit the island, shares a commitment to provide these sea creatures a habitat of their own. Apart from the pawikan, an underwater spectacle of corals and marine creatures also await visitors. For more information, interested parties may visit www.arenaisland. com or call (+63 2) 382-6700.

PLAN | Be a Student in Japan

Applications are now open for the 2012 Japanese government scholarships: Undergraduate, Special Training, College of Technology and Research categories. Application forms and requirements can be downloaded from the embassy Web site (www.ph.emb-apan.go.jp/culture/scholarship/index.htm) and will be available at the JICC Library in Manila, the consular offices of Japan in Cebu City and Davao City in middle of April. Deadline for submission of requirements is on May 27, 2011. Since 1954, the government of Japan has made education in Japanese universities and other institutions accessible to about 3,000 Filipino students through the Japanese government scholarships. The scholarship aims to develop future leaders by granting outstanding Filipino students a chance to further pursue their studies in Japan . For inquiries regarding the Japanese Government Scholarships, visit or call the Japan Information and Culture Center (JICC), Embassy of Japan, 2627 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, through telephone number (+63 2) 551-5710 local 2315 and 2317; the Consular Office of Japan in Cebu, seventh floor, Keppel Center, Samar Loop corner Cardinal Rosales Avenue, Cebu Business Park , Cebu City, through telephone numbers (+63 32) 231-7321 to 22; and the Consular Office of Japan in Davao, Suite B305m, third floor, Plaza de Luisa Complex, 140 Ramon Magsaysay Avenue, Davao City, through telephone number (+63 82) 221-3100. Free scholarship consultations are also held at the library of the Embassy of Japan every Friday at 10 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. and 2 to 4:30 P.M. Interested individuals are requested to bring a valid ID so they can enter the embassy premises.

VISIT | Guam’s Underwater Surprise

If you’re a diving enthusiast, you have to experience Guam’s majestic dive sites—magnificent waters with shipwrecks covered with sea flora and fauna that will stay in your mind forever, not to mention one of the world’s healthiest marine preserves! Guam offers clear water with visibility well over 100 feet (30 meters) at many sites, allowing you to marvel at its wide array of colorful coral reefs even from afar—dazzling sea stars, anemones, fishes of all sizes and hues, and assorted plants and coral life. From the boat, you can even spot an occasional dolphin frolicking in the calm waters. In Guam, the surprises are never-ending. One favorite dive site is the Blue Hole, a natural coral shaft with teaming marine life and visibility up to 100 feet (30 meters). The redtooth triggerfish, titan triggerfish, crocodile needlefish and various butterfly fish will amaze you. Along the wall plunging into the depths, larger fish such as Napoleons, barracudas, manta rays and turtles swim. Even though the Blue Hole is famous for its deep cavern, it can easily be done as a relatively shallow dive. A few hundred meters south of the Blue Hole is the Crevice, again bustling with beautiful fish and turtles. Pyramid butterfly fish will swarm around you when you get here. There are beautiful sea fans along the walls of the Crevice.

Barracuda Rock is equally captivating. It features great visibility as do all of the open ocean sites along Guam’s west coast and a boulder-strewn ocean floor, sometimes harboring colorful lobsters. Its caves are filled with red squirrelfish, hatchet fish, and big porcupine fish. Another interesting dive site is the Gab Gab 2 reef, which the Atlantis tourist submarine circles. It is one place where you will most likely see big fish such as giant trevallies, batfish, a nurse shark and a moray eel. If you look closely, especially in the round concrete structures on the reef, you can even find big stonefish. Besides the richness of its aquatic life, Guam’s diving sites are steeped in history. The shipwrecks tell many stories that wait to be discovered underwater, including that of a German ship from World War I, the SMS Cormoran, which came into contact with a Japanese ship, Tokai Maru, during World War II. The Japanese ship was actually sunk during battle, and damage from the bombing can be seen on the ship. This is the only place in the world where wrecks from both world wars touch beneath the surface. Equally interesting is the American Tanker, a concrete barge sunk after WWII. There are a few open rooms along the ship deck, as well as the superstructure itself, which can be safely entered by divers without special shipwreck training. You can find an emperor angelfish hanging around the rudder, and there are red snappers, titan triggerfish and assorted fusillears, butterfly fish and parrotfish around the wreck. Safety is an upmost priority for the diving community in Guam. In the event of any accidents, there are two fully staffed recompression chambers run by the United States Navy and two hospitals—one military and one private. Guam has dive packages for divers of all ages and booking a dive package is easy and convenient. Moreover, its lodgings and hotels are destinations in their own right. Indeed, Guam is a diver’s paradise waiting to be discovered.

READ | Book on Austronesian Heritage in National Museum Collection Launched

Paths of Origins: The Austronesian Heritage in the Collections of the National Museum of the Philippines, The Museum Nasional Indonesia, and The Netherlands Rijksmuseum voor Volkenkunde is a scholarly publication from ArtPostAsia Books that brings to life the Austronesian-speaking peoples and culture that existed in pre-historic Island Southeast Asia. Known for its lavishly illustrated publications and compelling narratives, ArtPostAsia’s Paths of Origins comes with essays and catalog descriptions by established specialists in their fields. Over thirty international scholars and authors contributed articles, essays and archival photos for this book, which weaves lores of the Austronesian-speaking peoples. To provide audiences with a better understanding of the Austronesian heritage, the Museum Foundation of the Philippines held a forum and discussion at the National Museum of the Filipino People. “What You Thought You Knew is History” featured archaeologists Dr. Eusebio Z. Dizon, Wilfredo Ronquillo, and Dr. Peter S. Bellwood (the last, by video). Purissima Benitez-Johannot moderated. The program included the book launch of Paths of Origins. “The National Museum hopes that with its participation [in this event and book launch], such paths of origins may be delineated, understood and appreciated with added clarity,” writes Corazon Alvina, former Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

director of the National Museum of the Philippines, in her foreword in the book.

NOTE | Intramuros Administration Celebrates 32nd Foundation Week

The Intramuros Administration celebrated its 32nd Foundation Week from April 10 to 15, 2011. Established in 1979 by virtue of Presidential Decree 1616, the agency is the driving force in the restoration of the Walled City to its prewar grandeur and in promoting it as a cultural heritage site. Marking the start of the festivities, the Intramuros Arts Festival was held on April 10 at the Intramuros Visitors Center in Fort Santiago, showcasing the works of Rosalinda Roman and Victor Sison in “Bahay Kubo and the Philippine Traditional Houses: Revisited,” a painting and paintography exhibit. “Intramuros Then and Now,” a photo exhibit by Ed Santiago and the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation, chronicle the long history of the Walled City. Adding color to the day, the Banda ng Maynila serenaded the public, playing OPM favorites in a concert at Fort Santiago. On April 11, a thanksgiving mass, followed by the IA Sportsfest awarding ceremonies, was held at Fort Santiago. On April 12, there was free admission to Fort Santiago and Baluarte de San Diego as well as to the Casa Manila Museum. Tranvia, carruaje and calesa shuttles were also offered for free. On April 13, a livelihood and tourism crafts fair was held at Plaza San Luis with Gawad Kalinga and Plaza San Luis tenants. Mananzan Handicrafts and Silahis Arts and Artifacts, homegrown arts and handicraft shops in Intramuros, had special displays at their stores. Intramuros Administration opened two exhibits, “Sulyap: A Preview” and “Mula Sa Lumang Bahay,” at Casa Blanca. “Sulyap” offers a peek into IA’s extensive museum collection representing the Philippines’ material culture and heritage from the Spanish colonial period to the prewar era. On display are religious images, accessories for men and women, tableware, household furniture, recreational objects, sanctuary silver, inlaid furniture and other ceramics, and kamagong and pina objects. The exhibit offers a preview of future Museo de Intramuros, which will soon be reconstructed on the site of the old San Ignacio Church. “Mula sa Lumang Bahay” exhibits architectural details extracted from colonial houses in various parts of the country at the turn of the century. These included balusters, door and window transoms and sashes, ventanillas, louvers and shutters, lattice work, arches between rooms, window grilles/posts, grille gates, newel posts, stair railings, column capitals, dividers, and brackets. Escuela Taller also displayed carpentry and masonry projects, and wood carvings by their students. The exhibits are open to the public until May 30, 2011, in celebration of the National Heritage Month, except on Holy Thursday and Good Friday (April 21 and 22). Exhibit hours are from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. A Foundation Week program took place at Casa Blanca on April 14, where Intramuros administrator Jose Capistrano, Jr., presented development plans for Intramuros. A dialogue entitled “Marketing Intramuros as a Tourist Destination” was held at Casa Blanca. The construction of the Walled City, as it is sometimes called, began in 1571. It served as the political, cultural, educational, religious and commercial center of the Spanish colony in Asia. Honored by King Philip II with the title Insigne y Siempre Leal Ciudad (Distinguished and Ever Loyal City), it was erected to protect the seat of the Spanish government from threats of foreign invasion, particularly from the British and the Dutch, and Japanese and Chinese sea pirates. World War II and a number of 16

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earthquakes, typhoons, and fires, reduced Intramuros to rubble. Decades after the war, the Walled City continued to deteriorate and be neglected. The Intramuros Administration was founded in an effort to preserve and rehabilitate its illustrious past.

KNOW | Philtoa Unveils Tourism Plans

After a challenging year, the Philippines’ tourism industry starts 2011 on a high note. Fresh off a 17 percent increase in the number of foreign nationals who visited the Philippines from 2009 to 2010, the country continues to attract visitors from all over the world because of its numerous vacation spots and unique attractions. Now on its 25th year, the Philippine Tour Operators Association (Philtoa) plans to increase the number of tourists this year by working with the Department of Tourism (DoT) in order to implement plans and strategies to add to the DoT’s existing programs. In addition to that, Philtoa will be offering packages for travelers who would like to experience the Philippines beyond its usual attractions. Philtoa is the largest association of tour and travel operators dedicated to promoting inbound and domestic tourism in the Philippines. The association’s first General Membership Meeting includes a diverse set of speakers such as former Secretary of Budget and Management of the Philippines Benjamin Diokno, governor Joey Salceda of Albay, and feng shui master Dr. So Chaw Yee. “The increase in the number of tourists in 2010 is a great sign for the tourism industry,” says Cesar Cruz, Philtoa president. “There are so many beautiful places in the country that people don’t know about and as part of our commitment to promote inbound and domestic tourism, we will be aligning our programs with the DoT’s marketing directions and programs for product development so we can come up with a variety of offerings that cater to the current market needs of the Philippine tourism industry.” 2011 will be an exciting time for travel enthusiasts, especially with what Philtoa has up its sleeve. In addition to the 22nd Philippine Travel Mart—the biggest travel expo in the country— this coming September, Philtoa also has several activities such as Luxury Night, where they will be unveiling the top destinations for travelers who are accustomed to the finer things in life, and the Philtoa Partnering for Professionalism and Progress (4Ps) seminars, which will give lectures to small and medium sized tourism enterprises in the areas of accommodation, tours and transport operations, as well as the frontliners of the tourism industry—the tour guides, drivers, etc.— on how to attract clients and maintain customer relations. They will also be creating modules and travel guides that will help visitors get around Metro Manila better. These travel guides will show the interconnectivity between cities and include recommendations for the best places to visit. “All in all, I’m confident that 2011 will be a great year for the tourism industry,” says Cruz. “We sincerely believe that we can achieve all of our goals by forging a strong partnership with the Department of Tourism. We’re working very hard to provide travelers with a unique cultural experience and on behalf of Philtoa, I would like to invite everyone to support our projects.”

Awed by Awao

EXPLORE

By Gigie Arcilla-Agtay • Photos by Toto Lozano

took a tight grip on the steel handle while seated on a Skylab on our way to the barangay of Awao (pronounced a-waw) in the town of Monkayo town of the province of Compostela Valley. The Skylab, a motorcycle customized to carry ten passengers and yet no bigger than a multicab, is the only means of transportation to remote areas in Monkayo. I checked on the time and realized we have been traveling the bumpy and winding road for almost an hour. I tried to ease the cramps on my legs that felt like tiny worms wriggling. As we alighted, I stretched out my legs and could hear my joints crack. It didn’t take long for me to settle beside the Skylab as Awao barangay captain Eliseo Sopirales and his kagawad came out of the barangay hall to accompany us to this newly-discovered waterfall. Sopirales met us and explained, with great enthusiasm, how the trek would go about.

Forest Trail

It isn’t quite what you’d expect from gold-rich Monkayo. Immediately ahead of the road, where the Skylab was parked,

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

there was a clump of thick foliage that seemed very much like a place where no one seemed to have ventured to in the past six months or so. There was no eco-trail yet. From the roadside, we followed a footpath. Liezel, our guide from the Monkayo tourism office, provided us a commentary on Awao’s trail and inhabitants as we walked past slippery big rocks and plants that I’ve never seen before. It was a scene that could make you think of man-eating creatures. After a forty-minute downhill trek, what stood before us was a sight to behold. Blessed with abundance of nutrients, it hosts a unique ecosystem teeming with life. It’s quite surprising that a few visitors think of exploring these jungles. Awao’s part-land and part-water environment promises a memorable adventure. The 3,844-hectare sleepy barangay with 17 sitios feels like a world away with its narrow dirt roads and bamboo houses. The bamboo houses, however, are long gone before you reach the place. It is interesting how this forest provides food and raw materials to 5,000 locals. There’s this fern (paco) that grows in thick groves and is the main ingredient in a popular salad by Dabawenyos.

An enchanting waterfall is one of the hidden wonders in Awao, Monkayo

Sight to Behold

These are the sights to look out for when you are in Awao: a 32-foot-high waterfall with many separate cascades, and wild flowers and orchids sharing space with ferns. Monkayo is one fascinating journey, apart from the popular gold mines on Mount Diwata in Diwalwal. Other destinations in Monkayo are the Kampanahan Cave, the Kumbilan Cave in Casoon, the Pasian Caves, Inland Resort of Maite, Sagay Falls of Salvacion, Pasian Falls, Magdagandang Falls, Upper Ulip Hot Spring, Buenas Creek Inland Resort in Mount Diwata, and Lantawanan Inland Resort in Union. Compostela Valley congressman Manuel “Way Kurat” Zamora plans a tourism destination out of undeveloped Awao. Before his term ends, Zamora said he hopes to put up an eco-trail, an orchidarium and a view deck. Our Awao tour included a sumptuous lunch of fried tilapia, sitaw and other local produce. On a road like this, one can easily feel overwhelmed by the sheer presence of the forest. Since there are only a few stores here, make sure you bring your own food and drinks. By the time our tour ended and we were on our way to Zamora’s Octagon House, I could not help but wonder why visitors haven’t been coming to Awao. But with its natural beauty, it surely will not stay a secret for so long.

Getting There Compostela Valley is accessible by air, land and sea transportation. Davao City, 979 kilometers from Manila, is the gateway to the region. On arriving at the airport, take a taxi or a bus to Davao City Overland Transport Terminal at Ecoland in Matina to board a bus to the town of Monkayo, 120 kilometers from Davao City. Getting there via a public transportation is convenient especially if you take Bachelor’s King Long bus. At the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal, a dispatcher will point to you the right vehicle to take. When you arrive in Monkayo, a Skylab or habal-habal can take you right to your destination. It is the most efficient way to get around Monkayo. You can even ask the driver to wait for you. In our case, our roundtrip to Awao cost us Php700.

Contact Information Registration is required at the Awao barangay hall. For tour and transportation arrangement, contact the Monkayo tourism coordinator at +63927-4217548. For further information, contact the Provincial Tourism Office, Office of the Governor, Compostela Valley, at telephone number (+63 084) 376-0140. Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

Sultan Kudarat Venture to

each bumming, sunbathing and all-night partying are the general ideas for out-of-towners who turn their back on their paper-piled desks. Though nothing is wrong with these three staples, one could argue that these activities could, at times, be as routine as the life they so desperately try to have a break from. If you are one of those who want to try something new and adventurous, such as spelunking, trekking and soaking in distinctly Filipino-Malay culture, then a trip down to Sultan Kudarat is definitely worth it. Located in the southwestern part of Mindanao, this province is known for its majestic structures and uniquely-designed infrastruc20

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

By Ayo G. Gunting

tures. One such place is the capitol building in Isulan, the capital of the province, dubbed by many as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Taj Mahal of the South,â&#x20AC;? which serves as the center of attraction in the midst of busy highways. Another man-made marvel this city boasts of is the Sultan Kudarat Cultural and Sports Complex that rivals the size of Araneta Coliseum, which will be the largest arena in Mindanao upon its completion. Another must-see in the town of Isulan is the Pasundayag Festival, which is held every September. Pasundayag celebrates the inception of the town and showcases the skills and talents in the literary,

The provincial capitol of Sultan Kudarat is considered as “Taj Mahal of the South”

musical and cultural aspects of the town, both young and old. It also depicts the thanksgiving of its residents who are mostly engaged in agriculture and is divided into two parts. The first shows the different activities done in the farm while the second deals with merrymaking in the form of dance using different props and materials. On the other side of the spectrum is the Bansadayaw or the Festival of Bagumbayan, which is highlighted by religious prayers. The term was coined from two Hiligaynon words: bansa, which means “in full view” and sayaw, which is merrymaking. Like the aforementioned Pasundayag, Bansadayaw is two-pronged. The festival is done to thank and honor God, while the second objective is to unite

the efforts of the citizens and preserve the cultural heritage of all ethnic groups such as the Muslims, T’boli, B’laan, Manobo, Hiligaynon, Cebuano, Ilocano, Pampangan and Tagalog. Other festivals held in Sultan Kudarat include the Kastifun, symbolizing the Columbioans’ stand to promote peace and development; Hinabyog, a celebration to commemorate the past and relate it to the present; and Talukdong, performed in street dancing and rituals played to the tune of exotic and native sounds of bamboo drums, kulintang and gongs. The mountainous province is also famous for its caves. Datu Suharto Mangudadatu, provincial governor, says he has “started Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

Traditional crafts are alive in Sultan Kudarat

promotions by holding several Mindanao conferences and caving in Sen. Ninoy Aquinoâ&#x20AC;? to keep the public abreast in matters concerning the famed caves of the province. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The world-class caves in Sen. Ninoy Aquino are our heritage and worthy to be showcased but must also be protected. Everybody in the province must try to see the splendor and beauty of these natural potentials,â&#x20AC;? he adds. Lagbasan Cave in Sen. Ninoy Aquino is one of the many natural wonders found in the humble municipality that are frequented by avid spelunkers and first-timers alike the world over. Lagbasan Cave features majestic stalactites, stalagmites, helictites and unique rock formations. Burial jars made of limestone that dates back to prehistoric times were also found in the cave. Burial Urns, Bitogon Cave, Batasan Cave, Kalupingon Cave and Midpanga Cave are other caves that could be found in the area, giving enthusiasts a different look and a new challenge to behold. As alluring as Sultan Kudarat is, one must still find time to rest and energize. And there is no better way to unwind than a refresh22

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

Feast on roast chicken available in the streets of Sultan Kudarat

ing dip in the many hot and cold springs of the province. One of the more well-known resorts is Marguez Hot and Cold Spring Resort in the town of Esperanza where one would find oneself in a serene, intimate setting. Taking all the sights could take weeks, even months to finish. So why not take a friend or two and discover the gem that is Sultan Kudarat?

EXPERIENCE

Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa

The Rock That Refreshes

By Raymund Magno Garlítos • Photos by Donald Tapan

aving arrived at midmorning, I couldn’t help but be astonished at the semaphore of lights that dot the still sleepy Elephant Island off the coast of Marinduque, where the picturesque Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa was waiting for this travel-weary visitor. Approaching the island on a speed boat with the waters of Sibuyan Sea still calm, the outline of structures slowly became clear and almost tactile, reminding us of that haunting opening scene in that classic movie Il Postino, where the whole village approaches the sunrise, minus the fishermen boats. Bellarocca, which translates to “beautiful rock” in Italian, seemed otherworldly and dreamy, like one is swept away from one’s tropical origins and brought to a faraway island in the Mediterranean. The stucco-white structures mirror the limestone houses of Santorini, Greece’s famous island getaway. As we were stepping out of the boat and tiptoeing on the floaters that led to the main docking area or the marina, the golf carts that serve as the resort’s only form of transportation awaited us. Eager to please this sole newcomer, the golf cart driver was donning the role of a gracious host and was already briefing us on

Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa is reminiscent of the resort island of Santorini, Greece, with its white stucco structures contrasting beautiful with the aquamarine waters and green-and-brown backdrop.

chic resort-hotels like the Misibis Bay resort in Cagraray Island, Albay, and Discovery Shores in Boracay, the place smacks of pleasures and intricacies reserved only for those with eye for distinction and luxury and without a care to shell out money. This privately-owned gem in the seas of Marinduque was once untamed with its rocky terrain and wild foliage, even reputed to be the haven of poisonous snakes. However, the owners, treating it like their own child, gradually polished its elephantine landscape piece by piece through the years, bringing heavy construction equipment like drillers and backhoes to chisel out what would later on be roads and even the small port and docking area where staff receives guests as they take their first step on the islet, opening it only for a wider delectation once the major structures have been put into place.

Amenities to Say “Amen” to the stylings that were put into the place, as his vehicle slowly moved uphill on cobblestone roads that lined the place. One would feel the stark contrast between the quiet sea and the fierce cool wind that smothered our backs as we made our way to the hotel’s receiving area. Bellarocca started operations as early as February 2009, but majority of the facilities became functional by the early part of 2010. Still its features already affected five-star elite accommodations comparable to the best in the world. Under the helm of premiere hotel management firm Genesis Resorts, which is responsible for those

Bellarocca’s fifty accommodations are designed to offer the visitor a taste of Mediterranean-style relaxation and organic pleasure fused with local cultural flavors and influences. Aside from the 21 deluxe rooms, three junior suites, six one-bedroom suites, and ten two-bedroom terrazas found in the main hotel, there are also six cliff side villas and four garden villas with balconies and verandas that offer a pristine view of the Sibuyan Sea and the majestic volcanic peaks of Mount Malindig on neighboring Marinduque main island. In the one-bedroom suite where my companion photographer and I were billeted, the chic amenities left us torn between staying in and cocooning with the delights of the room or going out to enjoy the resort’s other facilities. To elaborate: a satellite, cable-ready,

Bellarocca has 21 deluxe rooms, three junior suites, six one-bedroom suites and ten twobedroom terrazas, all in the main hotel; and six cliff side villas and four garden villas.

42-inch, flat-screen Sony Bravia LCD television with a DVD player and state-of-the-art home theater stereo system positioned in front of the queen-size bed; the centralized air-conditioning system; and two private balconies/verandas that let you breathe in the spectacular views of the deep, blue sea, cerulean skies and the enchanting beauty of the maiden of the mountain, Malindig (where the province got its name). The bathroom is a showcase of elegance. A large bathtub faces the mirror and sink where a variety of organic signature toiletries from Molton Brown and REN were neatly placed beside face towels. The lights that surround the bathroom match the waters that flow from the shower and the tub as one enjoys a bubble bath while reading a magazine or a paperback novel. A wide closet with a sliding door contains a personal electronic safe deposit box where one can leave personal belongings whenever one enjoys the resort’s other features. A personal bar and refrigerator has stacks of canned fruit juice and soda and imported mineral water, and drinking bottles of water are replenished daily. They also have an array of miniature liquor bottles and stacks of instant coffee and tea. The telephone inside the room is also state-of-the-art Skype-

powered Belkin Internet phone. It may be overwhelming for the uninitiated, but simple directions can be followed through the in-house directory found inside the room.

Facilities with a Fancy

The entire resort, despite its fanciful trimmings, is a showcase of the harmony between nature and modern stylish living. While embracing with the island’s natural foliage, the classic stucco whiteness of the structures also lessen absorption of natural daytime heat. The individualized infinity pools for the garden villas contain spring waters from Mount Malindig. Ponds teeming with fish of different sizes can be found in the resort’s main lobby and in various locations of the resort and provide a soothing Zen-like experience to both the young and old. The piano lounge and cigar lounge are perfect venues for the enjoyment of large groups. The resort’s dining outlets, including the restaurant and al-fresco bar, provide not only gustatory delights but also perfect venues for intimate dinners or group entertainment. Be it ala carte or buffet style, various flavors both from the East and the West will simply delight diners with their coterie of dishes and desserts. Those who

enjoy the restaurant’s various delectable offerings can also learn some simple culinary techniques from the chefs. For those with a penchant for absolute relaxation and meditation, Bellarocca’s two hillside spa treatment rooms and a meditation sanctuary on various locations of the island offer breathtaking views and ensure easy access from whichever point of origin within the resort. One can also have the privilege of a tailored spa experience so as to achieve a desired journey of wellness. The Aqua Sports Center, fronting the inviting waters of the Sibuyan Sea, is in between the marina and the Pavilion Area of the resort. Those who dare take a chance on water skiing, kayaking or Hobie cat sailing activities are also provided with their own individual trainers or sports guides. A nine-hole, 36-par golf course and driving range located at the foothills of Mount Malindig provides for the adequate cardiovascular workout, perfect for the executives. Nature adventurers may also want to try a hiking trail, which constitutes 299 steps leading to the highest point of 114 meters above sea level. Technology-savvy visitors who want complete access to the Internet may bring along their laptops to the various WiFi-

ready locations within the resort or connect through cable in their rooms. Two desktop units with fast Internet connection can be found in the recreational room. Those who prefer the comfort of words and images may enjoy the library’s coffee-table books, paperbacks and magazines, or one can have a movie marathon with the DVD selections in their own room or open-air at the al fresco bar, accessible through the front desk.

Signature Hospitality

One is touched by the generous attention that the resort staff offers to its guests. Whether to ask for extra toiletries or assistance in configuring out the iPod dock or Internet connectivity inside the rooms, be assured of that smile and greeting as you figure out what to ask for next. The same thing also goes to the waiters at the Hotel Pavilion Restaurant. During breakfast, when the eggs Benedict I ordered took some time to prepare, the waitress could not help but go back and forth to my table to offer freshly-baked bread and the accompanying butter and fruit jellies whenever my plate goes empty, or to refill my glass with water. One can also enjoy private and cozy dinner in the comforts of his/her own room just by calling the food and beverage department,

The resort’s dining outlets, including a restaurant and an al-fresco bar, provide gustatory delights Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

with a variety of choices almost similar to the restaurant’s offerings. At the infinity swimming pool facing the hotel rooms, separate towels are placed on the rattan couches. Vacationing couples who bring along infants or young kids may also avail of babysitting services. By the reception area, golf carts are always ready to transport guests to the different facilities and spots in the island. Those who would like to experience Marinduque’s culture may also arrange local tours with the hotel’s consultants.

The Height of Luxury

One cannot help but be amazed by Bellarocca’s premier offering: the twostorey Guest House, which houses two receiving rooms, three large bedrooms and a penthouse. Originally a personal vacation house for the use of the owners’ family, it became the signature facility that defines the high-class luxury Bellarocca is known for. Elegant furniture made by local and international designers define the lines of every corner and curve of the house. Each bedroom has the trademark amenities found in the rooms inside the hotels and the villas, while bathrooms have a clear door with a view of the island’s hidden natural flora. The wide glass windows offer a panoramic view of the sea and the sky. The Guest House also has its own infinity swimming pool. Discrete celebrities who have rented the facility are flown via helicopters to the nearby helipad. When we asked the hotel staff how much it would cost to rent the entire facility, one would be at a loss as to how much it exactly would be. Given the US-dollar standard rates for the hotel rooms and the garden villas, we cannot imagine the amount which we would decline to give (hint: the minimum rate they charge for an overnight stay in a deluxe room is $420). Despite the commanding prices, Bellarocca’s operations manager Alexis Tibayan wants to dispel the notion that their resort is snooty: “We don’t want the local market to have the idea that we are too expensive. Still, we are glad that there are more Filipinos who take to Bellarocca given the price we offer, because it translates to quality service and facilities.” A pharmaceutical company just concluded a medical conference, bringing along fifty people who have experienced the lush luxury of the island and a Korean group of ten have just arrived, having the hotel staff scurrying to accommodate them. Still, Bellarocca is a work in progress. Some of the facilities, like additional garden and seaside villas, the Marina Café (which serves temporarily as a transit receiving area) and the spa and natural hotspring pool are in the finishing stages, and more facilities are coming this year. 28

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

Nature at its Best

With all of Bellarocca’s facilities summing up the complete getaway for tired and harried souls like me, I decided to completely get away from it all by taking a quiet, unassuming walk on the cobblestone roads, minus the accommodating bellboys and golf cart drivers. The winds that touch the face of this island are fierce even during daytime, like those that blow in that distant island in Greece, but they soothe nonetheless, as if cleansing the body and soul of the impurities of metropolitan living, reminding you that meditation can be done while on foot. A yellowand-black bird captured my attention as it eyed me from a tree, with a fruit that resembled a wild pomegranate in its beak. Another one of the same kind flew by, as if taking a quick glance of me, then burst into a bird-song that was totally unfamiliar to my ears. I asked one of the gardeners trimming the flower bushes what kind of bird was that. He said it was a kilyawan, reminding one of that famous boys’ choir. “The birds were not original here, moving but coming back, but have long been the residents of the island, staying here longer than the original human inhabitants. We don’t know why they stay here, but they stay nonetheless,” he concluded. Hearing those words, I wanted to say to him that perhaps, more than anything else, Bellarocca is a sanctuary, a place for renewal and complete recollection of the self. It may seem like a paradise of the opulent and the extravagant, but it is still a rock that, when chiseled to perfection, can be a home away from home, and leaving it instills in you of a longing to return. Getting There Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa is located in Elephant Island, off the coast of Lipata, in the municipality of Buenavista, Marinduque. From Manila, one can make specific travel arrangements either by land or air, both through public or private transportation, through their sales office. Zest Air flies from Manila to Marinduque four times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday), which usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes. JAC Liner buses depart from Kamuning or Taft to Dalahican/Talao-talao Pier in Lucena City, Quezon, then via RORO vessel (Montenegro Lines) to Kawit Pier in Boac, Marinduque, where Bellarocca’s shuttle vans can pick guests up.

Contact Information The Makati sales office of Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa is at Suite 2804 Ayala Life-FGU Center, 6811 Ayala Avenue, Makati City, with telephone numbers (+63 2) 817-7290 and 328-8831, fax number (+63 2) 817-5879, and e-mail info@ bellaroccaresorts.com. Log on to www.bellaroccaresorts.com.

Explore the pa

rk on all-terra

Going Extreme at the

Dahilayan Adventure Park

By Gesel P. Mangilit • Photos by Donal Tapan Bukidnon is fast making a name for itself as the next adventure destination in the Philippines with the opening of the Dahilayan Adventure Park, a twenty-hectare property in the town of Manolo Fortich. The park’s main attraction is the record-breaking 840-meter dual zip line, the longest in Asia, where two riders can experience the thrill of soaring like an eagle over a vast expanse of forest cover. It is located about 40 kilometers from Cagayan de Oro City. One traverses a dirt road, passing hectares of pineapple plantations, until one reaches the foot of Mount Kitanglad. The park is located near the protected forests of Bukidnon, where some ethnic groups live. Until its opening in 2010, the Kaamulan Festival and the mountain trails of Kitanglad are the main tourist attractions of Bukidnon. This summer, adventure enthusiasts will be flocking to the park, coming from Cagayan de Oro, where whitewater rafting is very popular, and as far as Davao, which is five hours away by bus. Elpidio M. Paras, an engineer and owner of the park, bought the property ten years ago out of the prodding of his brother, who was in the construction business, supplying gravel and sand in a neighboring town. “He saw this place, surveyed the area and convinced me and our other siblings to buy it. It was nothing more than a cogonal area, logged down by the locals in the late 1960s,” Paras relates. Intending to build a rest house where the family, who lives in Cagayan de Oro, can vacation and enjoy cool mountain air during the summer, they planted 20,000 pine trees on the bare land. Now, 30

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

All roads lead to the Dahilayan Adventure Park this summer

in vehicles, ca

reening past 3.1

kilometers of

mountain trail

they stand majestic and proud, supplying the mountain resort with fresh pine scent and lending an ambiance to rival Baguio. Paras, who owns Parasat Cable, Inc., the largest cable television company in northern Mindanao, is himself an avid adventurer. His family runs Great White Water Tours, a whitewater rafting business in Cagayan de Oro. When he realized that they have a market, he thought of putting up a zip line in his Bukidnon property, which at that time is becoming popular in Cagayan de Oro, along with other extreme adventure sports such as cliff diving and bungee jumping. “We wanted to offer guests a total adventure package, and the ZipZone is the perfect complement to whitewater rafting. Adventure by water, land and air,” Paras shares. Bukidnon, being a landlocked province, has many hills and valleys, making it a perfect place to build a zip line, and Paras is the first to build it there. However, he didn’t want to build just a zip line, it has to be something that would set Dahilayan apart, hence the dual speed zip line. He has other plans for the ZipZone, one that he hopes would later earn for the park the distinction of being the ultimate destination for extreme adventure sports. “We not only aim to have the Asia’s longest dual zip line, we also want bragging rights to the longest single zip line,” he enthuses.

The launch point for the 320- and 150-meter zip lines

Ravi Victorio at the Tower of Power ropes course

The record is currently held by Davaoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Talomo district at one kilometer. Paras intends to build a 1.2 kilometer zip line at Dahilayan and possibly another one at two kilometers in another property not far from the park. When they opened the park in 2009, it was then a place for outdoor activities and company team buildings, and the zip line was one of the main activities. They started out with 320 meters and 150 meters. Now both have become training grounds for guests to get into the action and gather enough guts to eventually tackle the adrenaline-pumping 840 meters. Once you finish all three, you can consider yourself a bonafide extreme adventurer and get a certificate and photo to boot. The zip line is guaranteed safe and fun for every age. The youngest rider is at two years old and the oldest at eighty. The 320 meters and 150 meters require the rider to sit down. A single harness is attached to the roller, designed by Paras himself, and by force of gravity alone a rider is propelled into the air at speeds of 60 to 100 kilometers per hour. The equipment is designed and fabricated locally, while the harnesses are imported. For the 840 meters, guests are transported by vehicle to a launch tower 4,500 meters above sea level. Eight harnesses secure the rider. The breaking point for each of the harness is at 900 pounds. The prescribed limit set by the park for its riders is at 250 pounds. With the success of the ZipZone, Paras expects an increase of visitors especially during the summer. Along with the adjacent Forest Park, which offers tree top adventure, the Zorb, the all terrain vehicles (ATV) and buggies for rent, the Dahilayan Adventure Park has cornered the market for extreme sports. Everything you can think of in terms of adrenaline-pumping action is all here. The Tower of Power ropes course is a twelve stage-high and low-wire obstacle course complete with a multi-sided rock wall and rappeling tower. Soon to open is Dahilayanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s version of The Luge, a big tourist draw in Sentosa Park in Singapore. Construction is also ongoing for what would become a giant swing over a manmade lake. Overnight billeting is offered to guests at the Pinegrove Mountain Lodge, a modest mountain resort with a 180-degree view deck and nine rooms that can accommodate 50 guests.

Other Attractions at the Dahilayan Adventure Park

Aside from being an extreme adventure facility, Dahilayan is also an ecotourism park, which offers a myriad of fun activities for the whole family. The park provides excellent opportuni-

Father and child at the 320-meter zip line. Kids as young as two years old can experience this thrilling ride

ties for hiking, camping and bird watching as it sits close to a protected forest area. The Dahilayan Forest Park, owned and operated by Celso and Janina Legarda, has an American Western-inspired cafe and picnic grounds, where kids can do rough-and-tumble activities such as the ropes course and tree top adventure. Farm animal statues are scattered around the area, making it fun and educational as well. A twenty-foot Bungee Bounce, a big trampoline, sits at the far end of the property. The Zorb, one of many attractions of the park, is quite an experience. Riders are strapped inside a huge inflatable ball that rolls downhill. The orb moves slowly then gathers speed as it rolls midway downhill. Not for the faint of heart, it is however safe for kids and adults alike. For nature lovers, a short hike up the mountain trails can be a fun way to explore the forest. One may also find oneself behind the wheel of an ATV, careening through 3.1 kilometers of gravel-and-dirt road. Winding down for a relaxing afternoon, one can walk around the park and survey the surroundings to find an herb garden called Botanica, where one can dine on organic salads and pasta, or the Cowboy Grill, where one can savor mouthwatering T-bone and Porterhouse steaks. Go horseback riding afterwards. Bukidnon, having a good number of farms like Del Monte, is an ideal place to plant high-value crops such broccoli, strawberries, cauliflower, lettuce and ornamental flowers, all with a potential for

export. There is, in fact, a small greenhouse along the road where one can purchase fresh vegetables to take home. Further uphill, the Dahilayan Garden and Resorts, a five-minute ride from the park, has a lake where one can go fishing, boating, swimming or riding the Aqua Balls. The owner, Victor Paras, is the first among the Paras siblings to build in the area. His modest vacation home is now among the many being rented out to guests who want to experience a quiet mountain vacation, a contemplative retreat from the city, in relative isolation from the hubbub at the Dahilayan Adventure and Forest Park. This property sits on a plateau and offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Dahilayan complex. It has landscaped courtyards Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

joined by winding pathways made of stones, trellised gardens and an outdoor pavilion with a huge tent that can easily accommodate 150 guests, making it a perfect venue for those who want a truly romantic garden wedding.

Would-be astronauts can experience a one-of- a-kind thrill ride at the Zorb

Rina and Ravi Victorio with daughter Pia

Ravi poses with the skilled crew at the ZipZone

Getting There From Cagayan De Oro airport, take the Davao-Bukidnon highway. Turn right on the Alae Junction and proceed for 25 kilometers to the barangay of Dahilayan, past Camp Phillips and the Del Monte pineapple fields via Mampayag.

Contact Information The Dahilayan Adventure Park offers a day tour adventure package for ten people, which includes whitewater rafting in the morning (Great White Water Tours) and zip-lining in the afternoon (inclusive of meals and snacks). Overnight accommodations on site at the Pinegrove Mountain Lodge or Forest Park may be arranged, and they offer family and barkada packages. Summer camp and company team buildings are also welcome. The park is open from Mondays to Sundays and holidays, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. For inquiries and bookings, call (+63 88) 857-2663 or (+63 88)8562102; call or text mobile (+63 922) 880-1319; or log on to www.dahilayanadventurepark.com. Birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eye view of the ropes course

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

Dahilayan ZipZone Taking Flight at the

By Gesel P. Mangilit

have always considered myself an earthbound spirit, and flying by wire at the height of 100 meters is certainly not on my to-do list. But the moment you enter the ZipZone at the Dahilayan Adventure Park, you feel the adrenaline rush as soon as you see riders zipping past the hills, shouting (or screaming) at the top of their lungs. I admired the postcard perfect scenery and breathed in the pure mountain air. Then it became perfectly clear: afraid as I was of heights, I could not leave this place without having tried the 840-meter zip line. It was raining the day we arrived, not the perfect weather for ziplining because of the biting cold. But it is safe, said Ravi Victorio, our host for the day. Married to Rina Jane Paras, Ravi helps run the family business that his father-in-law Elpidio began in 2008. All the Paras children are involved in the business. Ravi, himself an adventurer who regularly scales the heights of Mount Kitanglad, the highest peak in Bukidnon, is also the poster boy for the park’s many advertisements. A graduate of engineering at the Dela Salle University, Ravi worked with his father-in-law in designing the ZipZone and was the first to test the lines for safety. Knowledgeable and articulate, he explained how the zip line works and reassured us, that yes, the zip line is safe. Even his five-year-old daughter Pia has experienced the 320-meter zipline. It was late afternoon when the rains subsided. It was still drizzling when we took our positions at the 320-meter high launch point. Strapped to the harness, I panicked. With fear drumming in my ears, I could barely hear the crew giving out safety instructions. “Just hold on to the strap in front of you, and as you approach the end point hold both feet up and slightly straighten out your body,” the crew member said. I was told to take two steps down. I gingerly followed. I felt a

Gingko Untal and I beam as we wait to get unstrapped after braving the 840 mt. dual zip line

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slight shove at my back, and in a moment of hesitation I tried to dig my heels in the steps made slippery by the rain in a futile attempt to stall my descent into thin air. My knees gave way. I held on for dear life. I was off. It turned out the toughest part was lifting your feet off the platform. The five seconds were pure fun and awe as I felt myself spin once, twice, in slow motion. As soon as my feet touched ground, I whooped in delight. I had done it! The 150-meter zip going down was a blur as I was so caught up in the moment. A short trek up to the jeep that would take us to the launch point of the 840-meter zip line followed. Ravi was there to meet me and my “flying partner” Gingko Untal, our indefatigable publisher, herself no stranger to extreme adventure sports, having once tried the eighty-foot high bungee jump at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. The launch tower is at 4,500 feet above sea level and is reached by a rope bridge. The riders wear a velcro-and-canvass body bag that is strapped to shoulders and waist and secured by four pairs of harness, each with a breaking point of 900 pounds. The harnesses are then securely clipped into two rollers that are, in turn, fastened to the cable. The maximum weight limit for the zip line is at 250 pounds. In flight, the drag chute attached to the rider opens up to slow down the speed. Those on the heavy side are given flappers to help create additional drag because the heavier the rider the faster it gets. I tested the steel cable for tensile strength. Ravi smiled reassuringly. Enjoy the flight and don’t forget to smile, he said. I held on to the steel railings and lifted my feet off the ground. I swallowed the huge lump of fear that had lodged in my throat as soon as I heard the latch of the gate being loosened. I was off to the ride of my life.

Arms outstretched and traveling at a speed of 60 to 100 kilometers per hour, my partner and I zipped past a canopy of trees. I could barely make out the outline of the landing point because of the fog but it didn’t matter, so engrossed was I with the lush greenery below and the majestic hills that opened up before me. We broke through the late afternoon mist, like two eagles soaring high above the mountains. Rain pelted on my cheeks, and a big gust of wind blew past me. I felt weightless and free. As soon as we moved past a marker and heard a whiplash that set the arresting gears in motion, I steeled my body for the landing, hands firmly to the sides and head bowed down. Once unstrapped, my flying partner and I made a celebratory jig and exchanged high fives. Cheeks flushed and still winded, we made our way to the kiosk and got our certificates. I had a huge, silly grin plastered on my face.

Rina and Ravi Victorio

The main attraction of the Dahilayan Adventure Park, a twenty-hectare property in the town of Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, is the record-breaking 840-meter dual zip line, the longest in Asia, where riders can experience the thrill of soaring like an eagle over a vast expanse of forest cover.

Samal A Passport to

If you want to escape Manila for the summer and embark on a journey of discovery, you need not go out of the country. The Philippines has more than enough places of interest to choose from

By Gesel P. Mangilit

Camp Holiday has 12 cottages, a 22-room hotel, a swimming pool, huts, a function room, a lobby with free WiFi access and a restaurant serving affordable dishes. Aside from being a place for the family to spend weekends, it is popular as venue for conventions and seminars.

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amal Island, which the local government likes to call the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS), does not readily come to mind. The beauty of this island city does not easily present itself but those who brave the long journey from Manila—by plane, bus and ferryboat—will be well rewarded. In Samal, you can swim in pristine beaches and contemplate with the coral gardens teeming with fish. Fifty-three out of 73 genera of corals usually found in the Philippines are in Samal. No wonder it is called the Coral Reef City of the South and a favorite dive spot. If you seek more, its limestone caves and mountains present more challenges. The highest peak in Samal Island is Puting Bato, a limestone mountain standing at 1,346 feet, where you are afforded a panoramic view of Davao Gulf. Add to that are the numerous caves scattered in its nine islets. The local government and the Department of Tourism (DoT) are promoting all these and more when it formally launched the Visit Samal Island Tour. There are 67 resorts in Samal Island, and the local government is stepping up its efforts to put the island on the tourism map through a series of events from March to May. The Visit Samal Island campaign kicked off with the formal unveiling of the Visit Samal Island logo at the Holiday Oceanview Hotel in March. Twenty-eight of the 67 resorts are extending value-added promos for the three summer months through the Samal Passport, given free at the Davao International Airport, Davao City malls, information counters in Manila and Cebu airports and by tour operators. The launch also made known the festivals celebrated in Samal Island. Apart from the 13th anniversary of Samal’s cityhood, which falls on March 7, the island has Caracoles (meaning “shells”), a flamboyant celebration of the island’s rich marine environment, which falls on the April 28 and 29. Then there are the Hugyaw Madayaw Festival and Bat Festival in August. The culmination of the Visit Samal Island tour on May 28 coincides with the Kabasan Festival, showcasing the different talents of the locals and the richness of their culture and native products.

For such a small island, Samal has a lot of potentials if you’re planning a summer vacation, so take advantage of the Samal Passport. Samal Island actually is a year-round tourist destination since it is never visited by typhoons and tropical depressions. It has its share of rains from June to December. December to May are dry months. Generally, the island city has fair weather throughout the year. Recently, the local government of Samal, the DoT and the private sector initiated a media familiarization tour of the island and I was among those fortunate enough to experience what Samal Island has to offer. Samal Island is in the heart of the Davao Gulf, 900 meters east of Davao City and 10 kilometers west of the province of Compostela Valley. It has over 118 kilometers of continuous coastline and a total land area of 30,130 square meters. Inhabited by about 100,000 people, Samal is one of the thirteen newest cities of the country. It was born by merging three municipalities of the island: Babak, Samal and Kaputian. Agriculture and fishery are its main source of revenue. Through the years, tourism has become top priority as the city is endowed with white-sand beaches frequented by tourists, offering an opportunity for the residents to develop tourism as an economic alternative.

Camp Holiday

Camp Holiday was our home during our stay in Samal Island. In terms of comfort and location, it is the best choice in the area because aside from having direct access to the barge it offers reasonable rates. Spread out within its 1.2 hectares are 12 cottages, a 22room hotel, a swimming pool, huts, a function room, a lobby with free WiFi access and a restaurant serving affordable dishes. Aside from being a place for the family to spend weekends, it is popular as venue for conventions and seminars. The function room is the biggest in the island with a capacity of 600 people for theater-type set up and 450 for a banquet-style set up. The hotel rooms are at Php1,500 a night while the cottages are at Php1,800. Day tours at Php80 include use of the pool and facilities. For overnight stay, you may pitch a tent on its small beach. While bringing in food is allowed, it is best to first peruse what the restaurant has to offer, which surprisingly enough. serves delicious yet affordable Filipino food and grilled dishes. Glen Germino, operations manager of Camp Holiday, says another threestorey hotel is being built in the area, which when finished will add 43 more rooms. A convenience store and a gas station around the corner from the complex can provide most of the necessities you

might need during your stay. Camp Holiday ’s sister hotel, the Oceanview Park , located in Ilihan, Camudmud, serves a more upscale clientele. It is in a nine-hectare development, which opened in October 2010, which includes a hotel, a residential area and a resort. The highlight of the hotel is its marina, a first in Davao, with a 110 parking slips for sailboats.

Hagimit Falls

Hagimit Falls used to be a hydrothermal plant in the 1970s and a primary water source of the Penaplata district. Now, it is a tourist attraction in Samal, owned by several families, the Batucans, Colmenareses, Neris/Dawas, Legaspis, Bostons, Pelayos and Cincos. With help from the city government, paved roads and a concrete stairway going down to the base of the falls were constructed in 2009 to make it accessible to visitors. To get to the falls, you need to hike down 97 steps until you reach the first level. The arduous task is worth it when you finally reach this enchanting falls whose waters run clear through limestone rocks, branching out into inlets and inviting you to dive right in. A series of pathways lead to the different areas of the falls and to the many cottages and open huts. Dr. Mahelinde Colmenares, fondly called Doc Mahal, owns the Datungganan Resort (Samaleno for “meeting place”) and the five cottages within her side of the falls. She used to serve as city district hospital administrator when she was a practicing obstretician/ gynecologist. Now retired, she runs the resort and spends her time

Hagimit Falls in Cawag, Penaplata, is a favorite among excursionists with its refreshing waters, resorts and rock formations.

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the water is deep; cautionary signs are placed. After swimming in the cool waters, feast on suman, ripe golden Samal mangoes and hot chocolate provided by the resort. For a small entrance fee of Php40 for adults and Php20 for children two to seven years old, the Hagimit Falls is a welcome respite for day tourists who would like enjoy one of Samal’s natural wonders. But to really experience a new way of life, an overnight stay is recommended in one of Doc Mahal’s rustic cottages for Php700 a night, with only torches and the sounds of nature lulling you to sleep. Hagimit Falls is located in Cawag, Penaplata. A number of resorts in Samal Island, including Davao Pearl Farm, offer tours to the falls. Roughing it out, however, would mean a 15-minute barge ride from the Davao pier, a 30 to 40 minute bus drive to Penaplata and a 20 minute motorcycle (habal-habal) ride to Hagimit Falls. For entrance information, contact 0920-5872430. For cottage information, contact Eagle’s Nest Cottages at 0923-3924288 or Dr. Mahelinda Colmenares of Mahal Cottages at 0910-9383837. Her e-mail address is luzmahalelemente@yahoo.com.

The Monfort Bat Colony

entertaining guests. She says her family along with the other families who own lots around Hagimit Falls have been cultivating the area since the 1950s until it was turned into a hydrothermal plant from 1978 to 1979. When the city government turned the area into a tourist spot, the stairway leading to the falls was constructed for easier access. Security measures, such as guards on duty, were also placed for overnight guests. Since then more visitors have been drawn to the enchanting waterfalls with its limestone formations and a cave at the far end called the Beto Cave, where freshwater shrimps called uwang flourish. Doc Mahal has many stories to tell about the Hagimit Falls such as the time when a wild monkey from the mountains found its way into the area in search of its lost baby, only to find it feasting on bananas planted in a remote area of the falls. There is also the mystery surrounding the death of a relative of the operators of another resort, the Eagle’s Nest, whose lifeless body was found inside Beto Cave. A marker was placed in Hagimit Falls in his memory. Stretching two kilometers, the falls’ beauty lies in its different rock formations. Thalassic pools at the far end of the falls, in secluded areas, invite you for a leisurely swim. For a rejuvenating back massage, stand underneath the rock formations and let the rushing water pound away aches and pains. A few enhancements were made with concrete shaped into rocks for kids to slideon . In some areas, 40

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The Monfort Bat Cave is the largest colony of Geoffrey’s Roussette fruit bats (Rousetteus amplexicaudatus) in the world, earning for itself in 2010 a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. A total of 1.8 million bats live in the caves, estimated by the Bat Conservation International. According to the guides, so big and overpopulated is the colony that efforts are being made to relocate some of the bats in another part. Bats, like humans, produce one offspring a year so it is remarkable how so many bats came to reside in the caves. Credit goes to the Monfort family, who for so many years has protected the bat colony. According to a marker detailing the history of the caves, the Inigo-Monfort family has owned and safeguarded the caves that sheltered humans against World War II bombing raids in the 1900s. Left untouched, the caves became an ideal resting ground for the bats from nearby islands and from as far as China, which were dislocated

The Parola Bar is the most identifiable structure of the Pearl Farm Beach Resort

from their natural habitat by human encroachment. In the 1990s, the family enclosed the property and posted a guard round the clock to discourage bat hunters and other uninvited guests, allowing no one except conservation scientists to enter the caves. In 2003, regional tourism and local government officials asked Norma Monfort, the current owner of the property, to donate the cave, promising royalties but sharply limiting her control in its management. Fearing that the government could not guarantee permanent protection for the bat colony, she declined and started planning the Monfort Bat Conservation Park . Then she faced possible loss of the cave through agrarian reform laws that limit individual ownership of agricultural land to 12.39 acres or five hectares. An application to convert the property from agricultural to ecotourism zone is pending at the Department of Agrarian Reform. In the meantime, Norma Monfort needed expert guidance in managing the caves wisely, seeing it for its tourist as

well as education potential. She turned to the Bat Conservation International for help. Despite their ecological significance, bats are often poached and their cave dwellings disturbed, threatening their survival. Bat droppings or guano, with its high ammonium nitrate content, is grade A fertilizer selling at USD150 a kilo. Highly flammable, it is used in the manufacture of gunpowder. Aside from being natural insect controllers (a single bat can eat up to a thousand mosquitoes in just one hour), bats are the most important pollinators of durian, contributing to Mindanao ’s growing fruit industry. Protecting them would also mean saving the rainforests, as they are also major agents of forest generation, pollinating flowers and dispersing large quantities of seeds. The facility conducts eco-tours for tourists and students. Viewing of the “emergence” at dusk, when the bats come out of the caves to hunt for food, started in August 2010. Other efforts to bring awareness to bat conservation are also in place in Roxas Avenue in Davao City, where the Davao Run Club stages a benefit fun run each month. The Monfort Bat Cave is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and tours to the caves come with a brief introduction and a request to observe silence so as not to disturb the bats. By day, the overpowering smell of guano (bat droppings) notwithstanding, guests would marvel at the cave’s limestone walls densely studded with fruit bats as they roost in remarkably exposed locations, giving visitors an up-close look from outside the five cave openings.

The Pearl Farm Beach Resort

A visit to Samal Island is not complete without dropping by the Pearl Farm Beach Resort, the only triple A resort in the island. Once a breeding ground for white-lipped oysters, cultivated for their pink, white and gold

pearls, the original Pearl Farm, owned by Floirendos, a prominent family in Mindanao, was converted into a resort in 1992 and is now operated by Fuego Hotels. The resort sits on a 14-hectare hillside land bordered in the east by a two-hectare tropical forest. The Parola Bar is its identifying structure and from there a pathway leads to the Maranao Restaurant, which serves Filipino and international cuisines. The resort’s Ilang Ilang Spa is just a few steps from the main pool across the restaurant. Pearl Farm’s claim to fame is its deluxe accommodations. All 73 guestrooms—the suites and the cottages on stilts—feature the art and skill of Mindanao’s ethnic groups such as Maranao, Mandaya, Bagobo and Sama. Offering a westward view of the sea, the sunset, the surrounding islands and Mount Apo are 21 cottages called Samal Houses, patterned after the stilt houses built above the water of seafaring Samals of the Sulu archipelago. Set back from the shore, above the hill, are 19 Hilltop Rooms with verandas overlooking the Davao Gulf or the lush forest. Also called balay, or “home” in the local language, all rooms are constructed in bamboo and wood. Located near the aqua sports area and amidst the palm trees, around one of the two swimming pools at the resort’s south end, are 20 Mandaya Houses, duplex-type bungalows with their own pocket gardens and private balconies. At each house’s entrance is a jar, locally known as banga, with water and a dipper made of coconut shell so that guests can wash the sand off their feet, a customary gesture that symbolizes cleansing of the spirit. A few hundred meters off the resort are the

The cottages and villas of the Pearl Farm Beach Resort are inspired by the indigenous cultures of the area

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Only check-in guests have access to this private beach at the Malipano island

luxury island villas at Malipano Island, with its own three-hole golf course and a private beach, a separate resort in itself. The Floirendo patriarch Antonio, Sr., built these exclusive villas for his seven children. Thus, each villa has a personality of its own. Tastefully designed by Filipino architect Francisco Manosa, each displays a skillful blend of the modern and the ethnic, utilizing native materials such as bamboo, coconut and yakal. Villa No. 5, owned by Maricris Floirendo, can accommodate a family of 12. Its master bedroom features intricately-whorled dagmay fabric in the headboard and throw pillows, which can also be bought at the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boutique shop.

The seven Malipano waterfront villas feature roofs inspired by the salakot or traditional Filipino hat. At Php7,000 a night per person, these villas guarantee complete privacy as each has its own veranda overlooking the sea and private stairs leading to the beach. Malipano also has beautifully-kept gardens and a gazebo, a perfect setting for a delightful tropical wedding. A variety of recreational activities is available at the Pearl Farm such tennis, basketball and badminton. A recreation center located near the row of Mandaya Houses has three billiard tables, darts and a mini bar. Aqua sports such as snorkeling, pedal boards, fish feeding, beach volley, soccer and water polo, sea kayaks, Hobie cats and wave runners are also available. For divers, two sunken World War II Japanese vessels lie 60 meters away from the resort and marine life teems around it. According to Vevien Febra, guest service supervisor, the resort is building a zip line in May to add to the many attractions of the resort. The easiest way to Pearl Farm Beach Resort is a 40-minute boat ride from the wharf in Davao City. Be prepared however, when you tour the island, as the roads can be rough. Inquire at the front desk for guided bus tours to Hagimit Falls and Monfort Bat Caves (countryside tour) or to Davao City (city tour). Day tours are at Php1,550 per person inclusive of lunch and boat transfer. The Pearl Farm Beach Resort is at Kaputian with telephone numbers (+63 82) 2219970 and 221-9979. Its Metro Manila sales office is at the 15th floor, 139 Corporate Center, Valero Street , Salcedo Village, Makati City, with telephone numbers (+63 2) 750-1999 and 750-1894 and fax number 750-1893.

Getting There Several airlines fly from Manila to Davao City. In Davao City, there are ferry boats going to Samal Island at the Santa Ana Wharf (near Magsaysay Park) going to Kaputian and Talikud Island; and Sasa Wharf, going to Babak.

Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

EXALT

Kaamulan Festival Street Theater Rules Bukidnon’s

Instead of the usual parade through the streets, the provincial government of Bukidnon took its recent Kaamulan Festival celebrations up a notch with a vibrant ethnic street theater competition, in addition to other colorful offerings. Performing to the lively beat of drums, eight municipalities from the province brought to life local legends of the seven indigenous peoples in the area—the Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon and Umayamnon—as they made their way downtown in Malaybalay City during the festival highlight. The Kaamulan Festival derives its name from the word amul, a Bukidnon term that signifies any form of gathering. Today, it is an almost month-long celebration of culture, touted as the only authentically ethnic festival in the Philippines. The festival, first adopted by northern Mindanao as a regional event in 1977, prides 44

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Photos by Teddy Pelaez

itself for showcasing genuine costumes and rituals as performed by the indigenous peoples themselves. The same offers visitors the chance to immerse in the local culture through dance clinics and ritual demonstrations. Undersecretary for Tourism Regulation, Coordination and Resource Generation Ma. Victoria V. Jasmin, who graced the festivities on behalf of the Department

of Tourism (DoT), said Bukidnon has great potential for agri-tourism and ecotourism opportunities. “There is a very beautiful festival here, but we have to promote tourism year-round so its benefits will not be seasonal,” she observed. Agricultural fairs and garden and livestock shows were among the festival’s well-attended activities. Bukidnon is home to vast pineapple

plantations for which the province is famous, as well as Asia’s longest dual zip line at the Dahilayan Adventure Park, both in the municipality of Manolo Fortich. Other points of interest include the Benedictine Monastery of the Transfiguration in San Jose, Malaybalay City, which houses an exquisite 50-piece handcrafted vestment collection, and various sites for hiking and river rafting.

Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

The Wild Orchid Facade

Weekend at the Wild Orchid By Grace Parayno

Shaded area of the pool for those who do not want to tan too much

Intricate wood carvings adorn the columns in Wild Orchid

Barely nine months old, Wild Orchid Beach Resort is the youngest of the Wild Orchid Group of Resorts in Angeles, Pampanga. Owner Ron Weakley said they chose to build another Wild Orchid resort in Subic mainly because it faces a beach that would give their guests both a fantastic view and a much-needed respite. Consultant General Manager Andy Stephen, however, noted that accessibility played a significant role in choosing Subic. Located along the stretch of Baloy Beach in Barrio Barreto, Wild Orchid Resort is only less than three hours from Metro Manila via the North Luzon Express Way. “If you leave on a Friday after work, you will be here in time for dinner,” Stephen said. He adds that Wild Orchid Resort is ideal for families or groups of friends who want to bond on a weekend, during holidays or simply any day they would prefer to break free from their daily routine. For commuters, traveling by bus is not as troublesome as it seems. Take a bus bound for Olongapo at a Victory Liner terminal in Metro Manila. Depending on the traffic, it takes about three to four hours to get there. Upon reaching Olongapo, the Wild Orchid Resort is just a 15-minute taxi cab ride from the bus station. The resort also offers shuttle service but Stephen suggested that the easiest way to go to Wild Orchid is for them to send a car to pick up their guests from Manila. And although located in Subic, Wild Orchid is made more accessible to city dwellers through a booking office in Manila.

Rooms at the Wild

All the rooms, except for the deluxe rooms, are equipped with a Jacuzzi

Wild Orchid Beach Resort has 83 spacious rooms that are classified as deluxe rooms, beachside or poolside rooms and executive balcony rooms. All rooms are airconditioned and are equipped with LCD TV and DVD, as well as a three-person Jacuzzi except for the deluxe rooms. The poolside rooms come with a balcony that has access to the Wild Orchid Beach Resort pool, perhaps the best and the biggest pool in town so far. The executive balcony rooms, on the other hand, feature a spectacular view of Subic Bay. And one good thing about Wild Orchid’s accommodations is that despite the global economic downturn, introductory room rates are still available. The Wild Orchid Beach Resort also offers a Conference Room that can accommodate about 100 persons. The fully air-conditioned function room comes with a complete audio system and projector screens. Provided with full service catering, the Wild Orchid Conference Room is perfect for off-site meetings, seminars, conferences, team-building workshops, weddings and parties.

Eating at the Wild Wild Orchid Resort has two restaurants --- Scalliwags Restaurant and the Captain Rob’s Barefoot Bar and BBQ. Situated right next to the poolside bar, Scalliwags 46

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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

swimming pool and Easter egg hunting. Wild Orchid Beach Resort Subic Bay Baloy Long Beach, Barrio Barretto, Olongapo City, Zambales Philippines.

Getting there:

Wild Orchid Resort sits along the stretch of the Baloy Beach.

From Manila to Subic Bay By Air. A “Subic Seaplane” can be arranged to pick up a guest (and two other passengers) at the Manila Yacht Club and bring them right at the doorstep of the Wild Orchid Beach Resort. The Subic Seaplane can also pick up guests from other points in the Philippines.

By Car.

Scalliwag’s Restaurant offers 24-hour al fresco dining.

Take North Luzon Express Way (NLEX) to Subic Clark Tarlac Express Way (SCTEX). Take the SCTEX to Subic (Olongapo). After exiting Subic Clark Express and entering Subic Bay Free Zone (SBFZ), follow road to bottom of hill. Take right ramp before lights proceed through SBMA. Exiting SBMA at the Kalaklan Gate, cross the bridge, turn left at stop sign. Drive 4.5kms to Barrio Barretto, turn left on the Baloy Beach Road (before bridge). Entrance to Wild Orchid Beach Resort is 200 meters on right side.

For more inquiries: provides both spacious indoor and al fresco dining 24 hours a day. The dining pleasure extends to a portion of the pool, serving guests with food or drinks while they are swimming or just soaking up. Scalliwag’s Restaurant offers a wide array of gastronomic pleasures that include Western delights, Asian cuisine, local favorites and even vegetarian dishes. The hefty serving of food complements the equally large serving of drinks. In fact, their brewed coffee was served not in a mere measely cup but in a rather large mug reminiscent of a regular-sized dipper. Home of the Baloy Beach Yacht Club, Captain Rob’s Barefoot Bar and BBQ overlooks the invigorating view of Baloy Beach. The bar sits right beside a spacious garden, a setting that is ideal for all types of outdoor functions. It serves succulent grilled seafood harvested fresh from the sea and scrumptuous barbecues and steaks, using only imported and choice meats from Australia, Chile and Brazil. Guests are treated to live music every night while they enjoy hot off-the-grill treats or just simply chill out.

Front Desk (63) 47-223-1029 Office (63) 47-223-8984 Mobile phone (63) 917-512-3029 bookings@wildorchidsubic.com http://www.wildorchidsubic.com

By Bus (option 1 and option 2) OPTION 1 Southern Cross Shuttle in Ermita Manila departs daily at 3:30 pm en route to the Orchid Resort in Angeles (about two hours travel time). Once there, guests can be picked up by the Wild Orchid Beach Resort Subic Bay’s car service. OPTION 2 Take a bus bound for Olongapo City at the Victory Liner Terminal in Sampaloc, Manila. It will take three to four hours of travel depending on traffic. From Victory Liner Terminal in Olongapo, Wild Orchid Beach Resort is only 15 minutes away via taxi cab.

Enjoying Wild

From Clark/Angeles to Subic Bay

Wild Orchid Resort keeps their guests happily occupied with water sports activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, banana boat riding and jetskiing. Native boats called bancas are also available for rent. And for those who want to make the most out of their trip, the Wild Orchid Travel Office can arrange activities not only within the resort but also around Subic Bay, along with the rest of the country. Stephen shared that most of their guests are foreign tourists and expatriates who keep returning to the resort. There are also local young urban professionals and families who have found Wild Orchid to be a good place to bond and worth bringing kids to. So, to keep the young and youngat-heart excited, the resort is planning family activities on Easter Sunday. The activities would include Sunday Buffet Brunch with complimentary use of the

By Car. Take the Subic Clark Tarlac Express Way (SCTEX) to Subic (Olongapo). After exiting Subic Clark Express and entering SBFZ, follow road to bottom of hill. Take right ramp before lights proceed through SBMA. Exiting SBMA at the Kalaklan Gate, cross the bridge, turn left at stop sign. Drive 4.5kms to Barrio Barretto, turn left on the Baloy Beach Road (before bridge). Entrance to Wild Orchid Beach Resort is 200 meters on right side.

By Bus. Southern Cross Shuttle departs Orchid Resort Angeles direct for Wild Orchid Beach Resort in Subic daily at 9:00A.M.

Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

Flower to the T

Text and Photos by Deni Rose M. Afinidad

his year has been declared by the United Nations as the Year of the Forests, and around this theme rallied this year’s Panagbenga: Baguio Flower Festival, arguably one of the biggest, most highly-anticipated festivals north of the country. Still fashioned after California’s Rose Parade, the 16th Panagbenga featured 26 floats depicting an assortment of forests—from the Medievalage Sherwood Forest of Robin Hood and his Merrymen to the futuristic and otherworldly Ikranay Forest of Avatar. The recently concluded Panagbenga is by far the “most organized” one in recent years, hauling a record estimate of 1.5 million visitors, said the event’s chairman, Anthony de Leon. This year is also said to be the first time for Baguio City officials to implement changes, such as a modified festival anthem, and new contest rules such as 95 percent of the floats should be made of flowers and other plants, and street dances should showcase less commercialism and more of Cordillera’s culture and costumes. As a result, more flowers were on parade this

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year, and more street dancers were in their traditional garbs and footwork, making the festival closer to having its own identity and not just a Masskara or Dinagyang Festival rip-off, said De Leon. Grade school and high school street dancers from 19 schools, each of which received a P30,000 cut from the festival’s Php11million budget, graced the opening salvo on the first day, which De Leon said was covered by the international media outfit CNN. The main event, however, was on the second day, when 16 drum-and-lyre bands, adult street dancers and floats took over both sides of the Session Road, replete with special effects such as fountains, hanging gardens, slide, a revolving globe, robotics and lights and sounds display. A float had thousands of roses forming a giant strawberry, another had real strawberries, while Coca-Cola’s float was a literal Coke float. “Panagbenga is the biggest, most attended festival I’ve ever seen in the country,” said actor Enchong Dee, who particularly enjoyed the festival’s multicultural showcase of Korean, Filipino-

16th Power Chinese and Filipino-Japanese street dancers. Also present to bring stellar bling to the floats were Empress Schuck, JC de Vera, Danita Paner, Sam Milby and Andi Manzano. There were at least four ambassadors who attended the event, including those representing Greece and Malaysia.

Bruno over Flowers

Formed in 1995, Panagbenga means “a season of blossoming” and “a time for flowering.” This festival, according to a Camp John Hay press statement, pays homage to the history, tradition and values of Baguio and the Cordilleras through a grand showcase of flowers for which the city is famous. “We started the festival 16 years ago to showcase the beautiful nature and culture of the Cordilleras,” said Damaso Bangaoet, the so-called “father” of the Panagbenga. Through the years, however, the festival has degraded, Bangaoet observed. “Street dancing has deteriorated because the people have been imitating the Masskara Festival,” he shared.

By changing the festival’s rules, like requiring the use of more flowers and costumes, past issues like overt commercialism and using more plastic than flowers on floats have been minimized. This year, Bangaoet is happy to report that they have brought back the festival’s regional identity. “There are more sounds and bands now, and this adds to the excitement. The quality of the floats also improved. In fact, the judges had a hard time crowning a winner,” he noted. Bangaoet, nevertheless, admitted that still, there are some loose ends to be straightened out. These include plenty of dead air in between lackluster performances, heavy traffic at the central business district, lack of comfort rooms, inhospitable locals and hobbyists getting in the way of photojournalists. The drum-and-lyre bands’ most played tune this year was “Just the Way You Are.” And though sang by the half-Filipino R&B singer Bruno Mars, pop songs and dances like these aren’t helping boost the festival’s patriotic spirit.

Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

Blooming Business

Though still hounded by challenges, this year’s Panagbenga, said De Leon, served a higher purpose than just an annual parade of floats and street dances. It had also become a tool for Baguio City’s local government and citizens to rethink their policies on environmental and cultural preservation. For the first time in the festival’s history, an environmental committee was formed to oversee pine tree planting and other side events that would hopefully lead to the festival’s vision of “Environment and Community in Harmony” or improved environment and standard of living. To encapsulate the festival’s spirit year-round, a 2,000-square meter wood-fenced Panagbenga Park has been opened along

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Loakan Road. It boasts of colorful flower beds, a butterfly sanctuary, a wishing well and a soon-to-rise dap-ay or authentic Ifugao community. Among the festival’s contests, the one about landscaping got the most participation, said Bangaoet, as it attracted contenders from as far as Thailand. Panagbenga, too, is still among Baguio’s biggest moneymakers, said festival co-chairman Freddie Alquiros, as it attracts tourists from all over the country. To accommodate the surge of guests, a bus company, he said, reported deployment of 150 extra buses. All major hotels had also been fully booked, when on a normal day, these were only up to 60 percent occupied, he said. Factors like these, he enthused, make them consider the festival as their second peak prior to the actual peak

season, Holy Week. Though De Leon could not give an actual estimate on how many flowers were used on floats this year, he confided that the festival is still the growers’ largest cash pot. A float, he estimated, costs at least half a million pesos. Float-making has actually become a cottage industry in the city, he said, that Baguio Country Club, a hall of famer when it comes to winning the float contest, has almost “perfected” the craft, using its own homegrown flowers and pool of in-house float makers. After the contest, the floats this year were displayed at the Althletic Bowl, guarded by over 200 volunteers overnight. The flowers on the floats were then either sold for peanuts or were reused as organic fertilizers for golf courses.

“When we started [the festival] 16 years ago, flower growers used to be amateurs, they had no cars. Now, they have economically improved by leaps and bounds. They now have pick-ups and trucks. Local landscapers now get a lot of contracts,” shared Bangaoet. Majority of the country’s flowers and 90 percent of what is in Dangwa, Manila, come from Benguet, and eight percent from its neighboring Apo, Tuba and La Trinidad, the country’s rose capital, Bangaoet said. The demand in flowers have become so big, he added, thanks to today’s hotel boom. This, he thinks, inspires more and more local and foreign entrepreneurs to invest in agribusiness. In fact, he shared that a major orchid producer from Thailand will open a five-hectare orchidarium and a

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research and development facility in Central Luzon University to make world-class orchids more accessible to Filipinos. To make the city more attractive to tourists and investors, Baguio City mayor Mauricio Domogan unveiled improvement plans covering the following areas: better infrastructure, peace and order, better hospitality and positive attitude among locals, and enhanced connection to other destinations. Festivals like Panagbenga, Domogan hopes, would make the city sustainable enough to support these projects, which include inviting more telecommunication providers to offer better Internet access; resuscitating Baguio’s “dead” destinations like Burnham Park and Mine’s View; and new roads and airports that would cut travel time to the city. “I’m confident that the more facilities Baguio has, the more tourists would go here,” said Ramon Cabrera, general manager of Camp John Hay, which is also now on a roll to expand and renovate in anticipation of Baguio’s second coming as the country’s true Summer Capital.

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Baguio Backed Domestic Tourism in

Department of Tourism Secretary Alberto A. Lim on DoT CAR’s participating float during the Panagbenga Festival

epartment of Tourism (DoT) Secretary Alberto A. Lim pushed for diversification of tourism products in Baguio City as a means of increasing visitors to the Summer Capital. “Baguio already gets a lot of domestic tourism on its own, but it should reinvent itself,” he told local media representatives and organizers at a press briefing during the Panagbenga Festival 2011. While he acknowledged that Baguio City remains popular among domestic tourists for its climate and accessibility, the Secretary said adding attractions will be key in sustaining the numbers. He cited museums like National Artist Ben Cabrera’s BenCab Museum, which the Secretary visited himself, and other cultural displays as possible new tourist draws. He also mentioned wellness and adventure as additional pegs for tourism in northern Luzon. As for developing existing attractions, Secretary Lim expressed commitment to assist the local government in refurbishing Burnham Park, beginning with the sprucing up of the Rose Garden. National Parks Development Committee director Juliet Villegas was also on hand during the festival to discuss the matter with local officials. “Burnham Park is an icon, and that is where we pledge to help Baguio,” noted the tourism chief. The Department’s soon-to-be-launched “Pilipinas, Tara Na!” domestic tourism campaign is likewise a joint undertaking, this time with the private sector. Sec. Lim said a remake of the 2004 “Tara Na,

One of the exhibit halls at the BenCab Museum in Baguio City

Byahe Tayo” music video will be rolled out in time for the Holy Week rush. The Secretary also took the opportunity to share the Department’s thrust in appealing to “high-value tourists,” especially in international tourism promotion. “It is not the number of tourists we get that matters, but the amount of money they spend and the length of time they stay. What we want to do is spend our promotions money targeting the highvalue visitors like the MICE market,” he said. Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

Peninsula de Punta Fuego Nasugbu, Batangas

pscale leisure developer Landco Pacific Corporation has consistently pioneered innovative and outstanding lifestyle products that revolutionize the way people live. Its flagship development Peninsula de Punta Fuego in Nasugbu, Batangas is the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first private and exclusive seaside residential resort, blending the wonders of sand, sky and sea with world-class resort amenities. This was quickly followed up by its highly anticipated sequel, Terrazas de Punta Fuego and Amara en Terrazas, a luxury oceanfront condominium offering scenic views of the South China Sea. Other noteworthy leisure communities are the award-winning Leisure Farms (Lem-

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ery, Batangas), Ponderosa Leisure Farms (Silang, Cavite), Hacienda Escudero (Tiaong, Quezon) and the Playa Series (Playa Calatagan in Calatgan, Batangas; Playa Laiya in San Juan, Batangas; and Playa Azalea in Samal Island, Davao). Its brand promise “Life at Your Leisure” is at the heart of all Landco’s properties—even in urban communities Tribeca Private Residences in Sucat, Muntinlupa and Stonecrest in San Pedro, Laguna as well as in hometown communities, Landco’s signature blue-label primary homes located in various provinces nationwide such as WoodGrove Park in San Fernando, Pampanga; Waterwood Park in Baliuag, Bulacan; MonteLago Nature Estates in San Pablo, Laguna; Woodside Garden Village in Urdaneta, Pangasinan; The Courtyard at Lakewood Golf Estates in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija; and Woodridge Garden Village in Zamboanga City. For 21 years, Landco has changed the Philippine landscape by providing its discriminating clientele with leisure’s many facets through high-end, resort-inspired leisure, hometown and urban communities. What’s your idea of leisure? Whether it’s sailing in crystal-clear blue waters, harvesting farm-fresh vegetables in your very own garden, or biking down beautiful tree-lined paths, you’re sure to find it in a Landco development.

For more information please call 836-5000, email customerrelations@landco.ph or visit www.landco.ph.

A gold-clad dancer poses for the cameras during a brief interval of sunlight. Like the Holy Child Sto. Nino, the rains come and the faithful embrace it with a dance

The Fire of Devotion Through the Rain at the

Sinulog Festival Text and Photos by Gesel P. Mangilit

The Sinulog Festival, a month-long festivity in Cebu in honor of the Santo Niño, is one of the biggest and grandest fiestas in the Philippines, witnessed not only by the Catholic faithful but also by tourists from other parts of the globe. This year marks the 455th celebration of the Sinulog and is made special with the installation of the new archbishop Jose Palma, now the fourth archbishop of Cebu, who replaced Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, who served as Cebu’s archbishop for 29 years. President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino was also in attendance along with an estimated crowd of 3.5 million devotees who braved the heavy downpour the weekend of the grand parade on January 16. It was my first time in Cebu for the Sinulog and I was witness to the love and fervor the Cebuanos have for the Holy Christ Child. Arriving just in time for the foot procession on Friday morning, I followed the seven-kilometer route through live TV coverage until the carroza bearing the Sto. Niño arrived at the Basilica del Sto. Niño at 3 P.M. for the Misa de Translacion, the first mass officiated by Archbishop Palma after his installation. Since my accommodation was along Pelaez Street, a five-minute walk to the Basilica del Sto. Niño and the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, I was at the center of the Sinulog festivities. I weaved my way through thick crowds and a sea of umbrellas at high noon and stood at the Pilgrim Center for the Misa de Translacion. In the days that followed I became witness to the Cebuanos’ devotion to the Sto. Niño as many came in droves to hear mass at the basilica. On January 15, Fuente Osmena Street and the surrounding area near Pier One was closed to traffic on the morning of the fluvial parade, which started right after the 4 a.m. mass at the National Shrine of St. Joseph in Mandaue City. From the Ouana Wharf in Mandaue, the galleon Trinidad, which bore the images of the Sto. Niño and the Virgen dela Guadalupe, made its voyage through the Mactan Channel amidst cheers of “Viva, Pit Senyor!” It was a sight to behold as 400 sea crafts surrounded the ship while overhead, helicopters hummed and patrolled the sea as the colorfully-festooned ship arrived at the Pier One in Cebu City. A re-enactment of the baptism of Queen Juana and Rajah Humabon was staged at the Basilica. In the afternoon, millions lined the streets for the solemn procession of the Sto. Niño culminating in street parties in Fuente and in downtown Cebu at the two biggest malls in the city, SM City and Ayala Center, where the Kasadya Mardi Gras Nite was held. This was the eve of the Sinulog, filled with activities all around Cebu such as cultural shows, food fests, pop music festivals and the search for the Sinulog Festival Queen. By this time, the fiesta was in full swing as we waited for the Grand Sinulog Parade on Sunday. After the pontifical mass by Archbishop Vidal at the Sto. Niño Basilica, I positioned myself at Mango 56

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Devotees withstand the rain during the Pontifical Mass at the Basilica Pilgrim Center. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the Sto. Nino, God becomes approachable, God becomes availableâ&#x20AC;?, says Archbishop Jose Palma in his homily.

A contingent shows off their dance moves in the street along Mango Avenue

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A float inspired by the movie Avatar

Drive to get a better view of the parade, which kicked off at 11 a.m., right after President Aquino made his speech at the Cebu City Sports Complex, where he lauded the display of the Cebuanos’ community spirit that has made Sinulog a success each year and how the Cebuanos really know throwing a good party. And what a party it was indeed. Even the heavy downpour could not dampen the spirit of millions that spilled into the streets of downtown Cebu to witness the street dancing and colourful costumes of the more than 140 contingents from all over Cebu. School children danced to the beat of the drums as crowds were wowed by the very colorful floats as they weaved their way through streets lined with festive buntings. Some gave up their umbrellas and danced in the rain. Even at the height of the fiesta celebration, it was peaceful. Security measures were strictly enforced. Even police interns were signed on to beef up local police. At night, there were more partying after the Sinulog Grand Fireworks Display at the Ayala Center. All the revelry and fiesta atmosphere could not, however, overshadow the religious importance of the Sinulog to the locals as they sang in unison and joined the procession while hugging the image of the Sto. Niño to their chests to protect it from the driving rain. I was especially moved when during the Mañanita Mass, held at 3 a.m. at the Basilica, people at the open-air area of basilica’s Pilgrim Center and around the church, let go colorful balloons during the offertory as a symbolic sign of the hopes and dreams, as they silently whispered prayers to the Holy Christ Child to fulfil their wishes. In his homily during the pontifical mass at 6 a.m., Archbishop Palma said to the about 3,000 devotees that the dancing and the singing are ways of glorifying God and enjoined the faithful to be like the Sto. Niño, child-like in faith. Perhaps the rains were a blessing in disguise as it posed a challenge to those who were there, highlighting the determination of the faithful to make the Sinulog a success, rain or shine. It was, they said, a test of faith as no other Sinulog has been rained on that much. Even I, who came to the Sinulog to see the Cebu attractions and to join the Sinulog Grand Parade came home renewed in faith, inspired by the Cebuano devotion to the 500-hundred-year-old image, which spurred the birth of the Catholic faith in the country. On Monday morning, which was declared a rest day for Cebuanos, the streets were quiet and surprisingly clean. I made my last trip to the basilica. To my relief, the mass was officiated entirely in English. I made my way to the image of the glass-encased Sto. Niño and made a promise to come back next year.

The Sinulog has made Cebu "the cradle of Christianity in the Far East". Here, a devotee solemly prays before the image of the 400-year-old image of Sto. Nino

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Lively street theater presentations delight the crowd at the Kaamulan Festival, an authentic celebration of indigenous culture in Bukidnon.

Mindanao Culture and Adventure to Headline Tourism in

ulture and adventure will remain vital pegs for tourism in Mindanao and will figure prominently in the Department of Tourism’s (DoT) thrust to increase tourist traffic to the area. “We hope with our participation in the East ASEAN Growth Area or BIMP-EAGA, we will be able to promote Mindanao not only for tourism, but also for tourism investment,” said DoT Undersecretary for Tourism Regulation, Coordination and Resource Generation Ma. Victoria V. Jasmin, who was recently in Bukidnon for the province’s annual Kaamulan Festival. She revealed that the DoT is seeking direct flights to Davao from its BIMP-EAGA neighbors Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia, and is eyeing Zamboanga for greater sea access from the said countries. Particularly in Bukidnon, known for its vast pineapple plantations, the department hopes to build agri-tourism and

ecotourism as supplementary tourism products. “There is a very beautiful festival here, but we have to promote tourism year-round so its benefits will not be seasonal,” said the Undersecretary. The province may also benefit from spill-over tourism from the MICE destinations of Cagayan de Oro and Davao and may be developed accordingly, she said. The province’s yearly Kaamulan Festival celebrates the rich culture of seven ethnic groups indigenous to the area: the Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon and Umayamnon. It was first adopted by northern Mindanao as its regional festival in 1977, and this year featured a street theater and float procession as highlights. Undersecretary Jasmin reiterated that except for a few isolated areas, peace and order in Mindanao is intact and ready for tourism. Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

ESCAPE

Residencia Boracay M

By Niña Elyca Rabadam Photos by Karl Fredrick M. Castro

y first visit to Boracay was, at the same time, my first trip alone. Sure, I have already experienced enduring long rides alone going to the province where my relatives stay. But this time, it was different. I arrived on the island with no one to welcome me, nor look after me for the rest of my stay. Realizing this, I knew I had to make it on my own and enjoy this new experience. I found a place to stay at Residencia Boracay at Station 1, a mere ten-minute ride from the port of Boracay. It was here where I met Macel Tirol, one of the hotel’s owners, who is also in-charge of its marketing and reservations’ arm. She greeted me with her warmest smile, chit-chatted for a while, even asked me how my trip went and gladly asked one of its able staffs to accommodate me to one of their deluxe rooms. Once inside my room, which was painted green and air-conditioned, I immediately slipped under the covers of my soft, wide bed, 60

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which was good for two, cozy enough to let me snooze for an hour or so—a much-needed nap after enduring a four-hour long trip from Manila going to the island. The sun was already setting when I decided to take a stroll along the beachfront. Scattered in front of the hotel are tall trees, some cabanas occupied by guests who were having a massage and a number of hammocks, where some guests lie, having a nap, gazing at the wide beach, or reading a good book. Once at the beachfront, I could not help but pleasantly observe some guests who were also out for a stroll—a couple bonding together with their child; a group of teens, clad in their latest swimwear or beach fashion, laughing with one another; and families enjoying the Boracay waters. It seemed that everyone was having much of a good time. My curious feet dragged me to Station 2 of the island where I saw lots of people, not out for a walk but out to experience the night-

life that the island offers. The beachfront transforms into a place where various food shops. Buffets were set up and performances could be enjoyed. After a dinner and a stroll at Station 2, I went back to the hotel. By merely looking at it from afar, I could already feel the quiet ambiance it exudes. I contentedly lay at one of the hammocks, took out a book (which I have been tugging along during my stroll) and peacefully read for a while. Later on, I felt the patter of rain. I immediately ran to the hotel lounge, where I sat at one of the wicker sofas with soft cushions and throw pillows and continued with my reading. That was one of my blissful moments: a combination of soft rain, cool breeze, soft pillows and a good book! I was greeted by a chilly morning the next day. That was when I met Macel, who joined me over for my breakfast and shared to me her enthusiasm in running the place, and meeting and befriending the hotel’s guests who were there to experience some rest and relaxation, away from the usual concerns of their daily life, and to have some time to bond with their families and loved ones. Macel shared that she, together with her cousins who put up the place, would like it to have a “home-like, cozy feel” where families can bond and spend great times together. At the same time, they would like it to be an environment that is quiet and laid-back, perfect for much-needed relaxation. Recently, Macel observed that the hotel has been a go-to place for local families to celebrate the homecoming of a loved one who has gone overseas for a long time; as a post-graduation get-away; or to celebrate birthdays or any other events worth celebrating. During our little conversation, a family at a nearby table was celebrating the 90th birthday of their grandmother. Beaming around her is her clan from different generations—sons and daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren. At another table, there was a small family with a cute and bubbly kid, heartily having their breakfast. Noticeably Residencia Boracay is a non-intimidating hotel that seems to be an extension of home with its soft features and cozy ambiance. These are evident in its lounging area with its cream-colored walls, plants placed at every corner and wicker seats with comfy cushions. Formerly called Residencia Tirol, Residencia Boracay is a threeVolume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

Residencia Boracay is a three-story beachfront hotel with luxurious, air-conditioned rooms, where the service is warm and cheerful

story beachfront hotel with luxurious, air-conditioned rooms equipped with a cable TV and a hot water shower. There are two super deluxe and deluxe select rooms, both with verandas overlooking the island; fourteen deluxe rooms; and six superior rooms located at the ground floor, which one can conveniently reach after a long day spent at the beach. The hotel is manned by a warm and cheerful staff. Each of its staff member makes sure you are very comfortable and accommodates your needs. If you badly need a massage, one can ask for the services of masseurs found in the hotel, or if you are craving for seafood, the kitchen staff can gladly have a “paluto” of your favorite seafood dish. Residencia Boracay is a place which lets you have your most needed relaxation, and your bonding moments with the people you love. It is one of the blissful places in Boracay you’ll keep coming back to. Macel shared, “It is a special place where good memories [with loved ones] are formed.” Bliss is also one of those words that described my stay. I especially love how I was able to enjoy being with myself, savoring the laidback vibe of my surroundings and observing people bonding peacefully and happily.

Getting There Boracay Island is at the northwest tip of Panay Island. There are several flights from Manila to Caticlan, a barangay in Malay, Aklan. From Caticlan, there is a short boat ride to Boracay. Flights can be as fast as 36 minutes. Some planes land in Kalibo, the capital of Aklan. From there, there is a two-hour ride to Caticlan. From Iloilo City, Boracay can be reached by bus or van with travel time of four to five hours.

Contact Information Residencia Boracay is located at Boat Station 1, Sitio Paongon, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, with telephone numbers (+63 36) 288-5394. Its Metro Manila sales and marketing office is at Room 303, Bahay ng Alumni, Magsaysay Street, University of the Philippines campus, Diliman, Quezon City, with telephone numbers (63 2) 384-7672 and (63 2) 996-2036; fax number (+63 2) 928-9363; e-mail reservations. residenciaboracay@gmail.com; and Web site www.residenciaboracay.com.

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

ACCOMMODATIONS

The warm and cozy atmosphere greets visitors the moment they step into the reception area

Pines

Up in the

Mountain, Among the

rom afar, the Pinegrove Mountain Lodge in Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, paints a charming picture of a mountain chalet in Aspen, set against a backdrop of pine trees. Entering the lodge, what strikes the visitor are the floor-to-ceiling panel windows that open up to a view of the Dahilayan Adventure Park. From that vantage point, you can observe all the activities in and around the park, most especially the 320-meter zip line that passes right in front of the hotel. One can dive right into the action or just linger for a while and enjoy the mountain air. The modest open-plan hotel can accommodate 50 persons at any given time. It feels intimate and personal, with just nine rooms, accessible via a narrow stairway at the right side of the hotel, past the adjoined front desk and lounge/guest area. There are six deluxe rooms at the basement, simply furnished with a queen bed, ottoman chair and television. In the attic are three dormitory-type rooms with eight to ten single beds and a common bath and toilet. Despite the cool mountain weather, all rooms are air-conditioned as it can get

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

By Gesel Mangilit Photos by Donald Tapan

This mountain hideaway in Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, seems to be extracted from the Swiss Alps or Aspen. With charming interiors and cozy furnishing, one can fully enjoy a quiet moment or dive into the action of Dahilayan Adventure Park

warm during the summer. Nights can get chilly at 10 to 13 degrees Celsius, so it is best to bring thick jackets and warm clothing. The 800-square meter communal dining hall is the center of all activities at the lodge. Meals are served on charming Bulua ceramics, handmade wares made in Cagayan de Oro. The ceramics are uniquely fashioned into tableware and ornaments seen throughout the lodge. These, together with the marble flooring, stone walls and pinewood paneling, lend the hotel a rugged feel. Here, you can lounge, dine and enjoy a majestic view of the Mount Kitanglad, which is sometimes shrouded in mist and sometimes clear and picturesque on a fine, sunny day. It gets cloudy in Bukidnon but typhoons rarely visit it so mountain climbing is a yearround affair. It is also for this very reason that Del Monte chose this place to plant their pineapples. Those who want to scale the heights of Kitanglad are in luck as the nearest jump-off point to Kitanglad National Park is Sumilao, less than an hour away from Manolo Fortich. Other than that, one can get enough adrenaline-pumping action at the park with its zip

Contact Information Pinegrove Mountain Lodge may be reached through telephone numbers (+63 88) 857-2663 and (+63 88) 856-2102 and mobile number (+63 922) 880-1319.

line, ATV (all-terrain vehicle) and buggies, wall climbing and ropes course, tree top adventure, horseback riding and swimming, boating and Aqua Ball at the garden resort five minutes away from the park. At night, guests can choose to stay indoors playing board games while warming themselves at the electric fireplace, or outdoors, huddled around a bonfire and roasting marshmallows. The owners own the largest cable company in northern Mindanao, thus despite the isolation of this mountain hideaway (expect intermittent to nonexistent mobile phone signals) creature comforts, such as a large flatscreen television with many cable channels, are made available to guests. A gaming room/recreation area is being constructed a few meters away from the lodge. Pine trees of the Benguet and Caribbean variety fill the air with a fresh scent especially in the morning, when the air is crisp and pure. At night, the wind and the gentle rush of the river running from the great Catanico Falls lull one to a restful sleep. If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quality time you want with family and friends, this is one vacation you definitely should have.

The Forest Park lodgings skillfully integrate itself into its natural setting, with rooms that “bring the outside in.”

t is wonderful to just sit back and take in the views while enjoying grilled food, Filipino specialties such as bulalo and sinigang, and American-style burgers and steaks at the Forest Park Eco-Lodge. The two-storey lodge-cum-restaurant is actually a huge tree house, and its design is very whimsical and playful. Life-size replicas of monkeys dangle from pine trees that surround the lodge. An open patio with tables made of timber and chairs made out of tree trunks overlooks the picnic grounds where even many more replicas of jungle animals are scattered for the kids to enjoy. You can have pictures taken with the replicas of a Native American village chieftain, complete with tepees and farm animals, or with an Incan statue at the park’s entrance. Owners Celso and Katrina Legarda created a perfect getaway not only for outdoor enthusiasts but also for families who want to bond. This is a place to get back to nature as the Forest Park provides

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Staying in the

Forest By Gesel P. Mangilit • Photos by Donald Tapan

Tree trunks, the barks coated with a thin veneer, frame this four-poster bed in one of the rooms at Forest Park

opportunities for families to enjoy rough-and-tumble activities under the canopy of pine trees through the Treetop Adventure, or past the rolling hills, inside an inflatable ball they call the Zorb, which would-be astronauts will have fun riding. Better yet, strap yourself into a harness and jump high in the air at the twenty-foot trampoline, situated at the far end of the property. Either way, the atmosphere brings out the kid in you. The park is an ideal base for exploring part of the vast Bukidnon forest reserve, yet activities are not restricted to just plain walking and hiking. There are all-terrain vehicles you can rent to explore the forest via a 3.1 kilometer route that takes you through winding paths up the mountains. Or, go to the grill restaurant nearby which offers horseback riding. A hub of activity especially in the morning, with the ZipZone a short walk down the main road, the park however, is a place for quiet walks in the late afternoon where you can explore the other establishments, among them, an herb garden and pasta place.

Gesel Mangilit preparing to ride the Zorb

There are only five rooms at the Forest Park but they do not disappoint. Designed by the sister of Celso who is studying in Manila at the Philippine School of Interior Design (PSID), the lodge skilfully integrates itself into its natural setting, with the rustic rooms that â&#x20AC;&#x153;bring the outside in.â&#x20AC;? Exposed tree trunks, their barks coated with a thin veneer, frame the four-poster bed. The bathroom has a tropical forest vibe with tiles made of stones and a rainfall shower. The rooms have a common balcony facing out into the mountain ranges of Kitanglad. Walk further and you reach a Japanese-style lily pond with wooden planks for flooring, a place for quiet contemplation. The Legardas live in a cottage across the park, which they sometimes rent out to families. The Forest Park Eco-Lodge is part of the Dahilayan Adventure Park, which is becoming a buzzword with the success of the ZipZone. They expect more guests and are building more cottages at an adjacent lot, which by yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s end, would add twelve more units.

Celso and Janina Legarda with Ravi Victorio

Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

Pueblo de Oro

Unveils New Projects in Key Cities

Every family deserves to live in a community that offers a life of security and sense of belonging, a place that provides the complete essentials of modern life all within armâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reach at affordable prices. For fifteen years now, beginning with its flagship Pueblo de Oro Township project in Cagayan de Oro City, Pueblo de Oro Development Corporation has been bringing these communities into reality. 68

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

Luxury Living at its Finest : Pueblo Golf Estates in Cagayan de Oro Located in one of the most prestigious addresses in Cagayan de Oro, the Pueblo Golf Estates is the premier subdivision inside the Pueblo de Oro township, a 360-hectare masterplanned community by Pueblo de Oro Development Corporation. The Golf Estates is the only subdivision in Cagayan de Oro that uses the cluster concept of development, wherein small residential clusters are spread throughout Pueblo de Oroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world class championship golf course, allowing for greater air circulation, lower housing density, and a spectacular panorama of the world-class Robert Trent Jones II designed golf course.

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Exclusive Townhouses at The Courtyards at Pueblo de Oro Two hectares of highly exclusive and fully built up high– end condominiumized townhouses in Cagayan de Oro City, The Courtyards is strategically located within the new uptown growth area of the city. The Courtyards’ prime location is within the new Uptown growth area of the city. In addition, the airport and downtown are only five minutes away, which makes The Courtyards the ideal location for experiencing the relaxing comforts of home while being only minutes away from the modern conveniences of a peaceful, mid-size and fast growing city. The Courtyards’ residential units are replete with superior finishing such as stone claddings, sliding Analok windows with bronze glass, stainless steel railings and granite kitchen countertops. In addition, the units are TV , telephone, cable and aircon ready. The condominiums come in building clusters of from three up to eight units. Each unit has three bedrooms with three T&B as well as provisions for a maid’s room and two-car garage for the end units and one- car garage for the inner unit. Nestled in the heart of the village is a central park and playground with an exercise trail where one can hang out and keep fit. Families can enjoy swimming in the fenced adult and kiddie pools. For special occasions such as birthdays and gatherings, there is a clubhouse within the exclusive townhouse community. Security is given consideration at the Courtyards. The project is protected by a high perimeter fence with a guardhouse and entrance gate plus 24/7 security.

Green Living at Primavera Residences The first truly eco-friendly condominium in the region, Primavera Residences, located at Pueblo Business Park, is being constructed using the principles of sustainable green architecture by award winning Italian architects. Primavera Residences’ inner green courtyard and atrium provide natural ventilation, thus enhancing its energy efficiency. It is also provided with solar panels designed to reduce electricity cost. Recent Green awards received by the Italian Architects who designed Primavera Residences include the “Special Energy Award” by the Design Against the Elements “DatE” International Architectural Competition , awarded on March 17 , 2011.

Forest View Homes in Cagayan de Oro Set against the magnificent 40-hectare Pueblo Urban Rainforest , Forest View Homes in Cagayan de Oro City is a peaceful enclave of rustic homes amid natural beauty. Located in the valley portion of the Pueblo de Oro Township, residents can enjoy the cool breezes and serene atmosphere while being only minutes away from city conveniences. Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

Value-Packed House and Lot Units in Cebu, Pampanga and Batangas Pueblo de Oroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new property developments are in full swing in Pampanga, Batangas and Cebu. The company expanded in Cebu with the opening of La Aldea Buena in 2004 and la Aldea del Rio in 2007. These projects are completely sold out as a result of brisk sales and plans are afoot for a third project in Cebu, to be named La Aldea del Mar. Last year, Pueblo de Oro set its sights on Luzon, starting in San Fernando, Pampanga , where the projects were unveiled under the name Pueblo de Oro Pampanga Communities. This is a 30-hectare master-planned development offering an exclusive collection of three private and gated villages. For the startup family, La Aldea Fernandina offers Spanish-Mediterranean themed townhouses; Park Place, on the other hand, contains contemporary Asian-themed twin homes perfect for the middle income Filipino buyers; while the Zen-inspired two-storey homes of The Horizon Residences caters to the middle income mature-family. Each subdivision offers a clubhouse, landscaped park and playground to provide your family the ideal venue for leisurely enjoyment as well as for special occasions. Security is not an

issue at Pueblo de Oro Pampanga Communities because the villages are protected by a perimeter fence with a guardhouse and entrance gate plus 24/7 security. Exclusive to homeowners of Horizon Residences is a pool and basketball court.

Pueblo de Oro: The Gold Standard in Community Living Pueblo de Oro is committed to addressing the needs of a growing and dynamic consumer market by making available a comprehensive product mix that includes quality residential facilities, ranging from exclusive residential villages for the high-end market, to value-packed middle income housing packages and highly affordable housing units where work, business, recreation and lifestyle essentials are all within reach. From Cagayan de Oro to Cebu and Pampanga and soon Batangas, Pueblo de Oro continues to spread the gold standard in community living. DEVELOPER:

For more info visit

www.pueblodeoro.com and www.courtyardsatpueblo.com www.facebook.com/pueblodeorocommunitiespampanga 70

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

ARTS & CULTURE

San Sebastian church has been the center of religious and social life for the past 119 years.

By Dinna Louise C. Dayao • Photos by Tina Paterno

A Jewel in San Sebastian church has withstood 14 major earthquakes, countless typhoons, and a world war in the past 119 years. Today, a silent menace threatens its jewel-like interiors and its structural integrity.

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

The San Sebastian Church, with its twin spires, is a familiar landmark in Quiapo, Manila. The minor basilica has played an important role in community life for the past 119 years. It has silently witnessed countless baptisms, Masses and weddings. San Sebastian’s green and white façade and massive spires may seem like they will be around forever. But all is not well inside the all-steel church building; rust threatens its jewel-like interiors and its structural integrity. “We’re seeing so much deterioration on the inside,” says Tina Paterno, an architectural conservator and the executive director of San Sebastian Basilica Conservation and Development Foundation. “We found water inside the steel columns, active leaks, and rust in many areas. We don’t know how structurally stable the church actually is.” She is concerned that over 36 kilos of steel have fallen in different parts of the church in the past 50 years. When Paterno first saw San Sebastian Church in 2008, she was “awed by its beauty and alarmed by its decay,” she says. Since then, she and many experts like her, have been racing against time to arrest

Prizewinning portraitist Lorenzo Rocha, together with his students, painted saints, evangelists, and angels on the church walls and dome.

the deterioration of the church. They consider the Minor Basilica of San Sebastian a treasure worth preserving because of the following reasons: San Sebastian church is the only all-steel, neo-Gothic basilica in the Philippines and in Asia. The church is made completely of steel, inside and out. Its pointed arches and vaulted ceilings are characteristic of the neo-Gothic style of architecture that originated in the 19th century. The present building is the fourth church to be built on the same spot. Devastating earthquakes destroyed the first two churches, in 1645 and 1863, and severely damaged the third church in 1880. The destruction of the first three churches led Genaro Palacios, the director of public works of the Spanish government in the Philippines, to recommend in 1881 that a new church be built of steel. Palacios was an engineer with expertise in seismic design; he believed structural steel would withstand earthquakes better than masonry could. The Recoletos friars—the custodians of the church—agreed to his proposal. Many European and Asian craftsmen worked hand in hand to build the church. Spaniard Palacios worked like a dynamo to turn his idea into a reality. From 1881 to 1891, “he would design the church, bid out the project to ﬁrms in France, Belgium, and England, inspect their foundries, tweak his designs, source the stained glass, arrange for insurance and shipping of all these parts to Manila, and oversee demolition and foundation-building from another continent,” says Paterno. After the steel parts arrived in Manila, an international crew of artists and craftsmen spent two years to assemble, paint and furnish

Racing Against Time, Step by Step Since 2008, Tina Paterno, the executive director of San Sebastian Basilica Conservation and Development Foundation, and a team of experts have been “in the diagnosis and testing phase” of saving the church. “We are like building doctors,” she says. “We see a lot of symptoms and we need to piece them all together so we know exactly how to repair the building.” The painstaking process has involved many tests and experts. Members of the Corrosion Society of the Philippines have set up a corrosivity monitor in the church to determine how fast the steel is being worn away and what is causing the corrosion. Architect Dan Lichauco and students of the University of Santo Tomas are completing measured drawings of the building. Dr. Robert Baboian, a corrosion scientist and key figure for the Statue of Liberty restoration, is a volunteer adviser to the project, as is Noel Ocampo, structural engineer specializing in historic buildings from Robert Silman & Associates in New York. Various government agencies have joined the campaign to save San Sebastian Church. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts has allotted P237,500 for the “research, documentation, and conditions assessment and community development” for the church. The National Historical Institute has lent architectural drawings to the team of experts. The National Library has graciously allowed the team to use its huge scanner for free.

Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

The world-renowned studio of Dr. Henri Oidtmann & Co. in Brussels created the incredibly detailed and vivid stained glass windows.

the church. The team included a Filipino in charge of demolition, an English project head, two Belgian steel workers, and a Chinese man who worked on the wooden floors, says Paterno. The church interiors reflect the skill of accomplished Filipino and European craftsmen. Lorenzo Guerrero, a great painter and art teacher, designed the altarpieces and the pulpit. Prizewinning portraitist Lorenzo Rocha, together with his students, painted every inch of the steel columns, walls, and ceilings to make them look like marble and jasper instead of metal. Rocha and his students adorned the surfaces with incredibly detailed trompe l’oeil paintings. The paintings trick the eye into seeing a painted detail, such as a carved wooden niche, as a three-dimensional object. The world-renowned studio of Dr. Henri Oidtmann & Co. in Brussels created the 34 stained glass windows, which shower the vast nave with rich hues. Its innovative steel construction remains unique. There is no other example of a prefabricated all-steel church in the Philippines and in Asia, states the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. San Sebastian church is made of over 1,500 tons of steel that was cast, rolled, and cut to exact measure in the foundries of Societé Anonyme d’Entreprises de Travaux Publics in Belgium. “A trial mount of the side vaults of San Sebastian was done in Belgium to ensure that all the pieces fit together perfectly,” says Paterno. The parts were then taken apart and then transported by nine ships to Manila. The church has national and universal value. San Sebastian church was declared a national historical landmark in 1973 under Presidential Decree 260. The decree recognized the “necessity of preserving and utilizing the cultural properties of the nation for the furtherance of the people’s culture.” It identified the church as a cultural property that is an “irreplaceable treasure” of the country. The church has also attracted international attention. It is included in the 2010 edition of the World Monuments Watch. The Watch is the main advocacy program of the World Monuments Fund (WMF), a private organization “dedicated to saving the world’s most treasured places,” according to the WMF Web site. San Sebastian church has economic value. Travelers love to visit places that offer experiences unique to that place. This is why many tourists visit Vigan in Ilocos Sur, considered the finest surviving example of a Spanish colonial town in Asia, or gather at 74

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

the church of Las Piñas to listen to organists play the world’s only bamboo organ. At the moment, though, “San Sebastian church is not on the map,” says Paterno. “People don’t come here by the busloads like they do to Manila Cathedral, for example.” An honest-to-goodness restoration of the church can create a distinctive place that will attract tourists and generate jobs and pride of place for the members of the community where the church stands. The Basilica of San Sebastian has withstood 14 major earthquakes, countless typhoons, and a world war in the past 119 years. Now that rust is threatening its breath-taking interiors and structural integrity, it is time to plan and work together to restore the church.

Water inside this steel column has resulted in its rusting and instability.

Rust has eaten up the paint on this trompe l’oeil painting.

You Can Help Save an Endangered Treasure Many concerned citizens have given their time and expertise to arrest the decay of San Sebastian church and to call attention to its plight. Photographer Estan Cabigas has been documenting the interiors. Fictionist Sarge Lacuesta is working on a Web site for the restoration project. Ivan Mandy has conducted a walking tour of San Sebastian church. Still, there is much to do to restore the neo-Gothic church to its former glory. There are articles to be written, print materials to be designed, funds to be raised, to name a few. Many hands will lighten the load. Contact savesansebastian.org@ gmail.com to find out how you can help.

By Roel Hoang Manipon â&#x20AC;˘ Photos by Marvin Alcaraz

A Showcase of Creativity at the

Philippine International Arts Festival It was a grand feast for the senses and the soul. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) celebrated National Arts Month (NAM), which marked its two decades of highlighting Filipino artistry, the whole of February 2011 with the Philippine International Arts Festival (PIAF). This year, PIAF has intensified its national scope with events held in different regions and provinces in the archipelago. In the beginning of activities were mostly centered in Metro Manila. It has also laid groundwork for an international aspiration with several artists from other countries attending and participating in different affairs. Numerous artists, cultural workers, students, art enthusiasts and people from all walks of life flocked to different PIAF events, comprising the flagship projects of the seven committees of NCCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Subcommission for the Arts, headed by poet Ricardo de Ungria, who was the festival director, and related NCCAfunded events. There were workshops, exhibitions, forums and performances, most of them free to the public, in this month-long fete. To let these be known to more people, the NCCA also bolstered its promotion, promi76

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

Sayaw Pinoy, the dance component of PIAF

The grand opening of PIAF at the Rizal Park in Manila

nently by inviting showbiz personalities Boy Abunda and Dingdong Dantes to act as its “ambassadors.”

Colorful Commencements

PIAF was opened in four focal areas—the National Capital Region and the island clusters of Mindanao, Visayas and Luzon—with displays, showcases and workshops. It began in the NCR at the Rizal Park, where there were parades, workshops on the seven arts and performances. Likewise, these were replicated in the three island clusters but each flavored with the region’s cultures. PIAF was launched at People’s Park in Davao City on February 6 for Mindanao; at Bacolod Provincial Capitol in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, on February 13 for the Visayas; and

The Mindanao opening in Davao City

at Burnham Park in Baguio City on February 20 for Luzon. Each of these inaugurals was well attended and supported by the local government units. Artists gathered and regaled audience with their creativity and skills. Thus began a month of celebration of imagination and ingenuity.

A Cornucopia of Creations

The NCCA’s arts committees beefed up the month their flagship projects that were meant to edify and amuse the public, ushering them to new experiences. They also served as

venues for artists to venture into new frontiers. The National Committee on Architecture granted us an intimate look at spaces and shapes around with “Archi[types/text] 2011,” a multi-venue exhibition composed of nine distinct activities that explored the many facets of architecture and the production of space in Philippine life. The exhibits and events were “Anatomiya/Arkitektura,” “Imperial Manila,” “Arkitektura + Moda,” “Polychromed Panorama,” “Pa(ng)labas= Ciudad + Cine,” “Crafting Traditions: Escuela Taller’s Revival of Architectural Crafts,” “Arkitekturang Filipino Online,” “Al-

Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

Joey Ayala, head of the National Committee on Music, led Organik Muzik 3

terchitecture” and “Critical Architecture.” The National Committee on Cinema mounted the third Cinema Rehiyon, offering films from the regions. A festival of mostly independent films that promise to provide new perspectives, locales, sounds and visuals, it was held in Davao City from February 9 to 12. Satellite activities were also held in Metro Manila such as the Ani ng Sine, a festival of films produced from 2008 to 2010. The fifth Tanghal: Student Theater Festival, which focuses on student theater groups and their role in the development of the nation’s dramatic arts, was mounted by the National Committee for the Dramatic Arts in Negros Occidental, showcasing the student theater 78

groups of the province and nearby areas. Related to it was the first Monodrama Manila at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, introducing the Filipino audience to the exciting singleactor dramatic form. National Committee on Literary Arts held the third Taboan: International Writers Festival in Davao City, now focusing on the writings and writers of Mindanao. Organik Muzik 3 of the National Committee on Music let audiences listen to alternative music with Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan awardees Samaon Sulaiman and Masino Intaray as well as Joey Ayala, Popong Ladero, Tapati Tarongoy, Onie Badiang and Chong Tengasantos.

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

One of the exhibits of the National Committee on Architecture and Allied Arts

PIAF opened in Baguio City with strong Cordilleran flavor

National Committee on Dance once again amazed the public with the ninth mounting of Sayaw Pinoy in different parts of the country. The Philippine International Visual Arts Festival (PIVAF) of the National Committee on Visual Arts Festival was held in several locations spread throughout the country such as Bulacan, Rizal, Isabela and Boracay in Aklan where the main event was held focusing on tattoo art, sand sculpture and body painting. Each of these projects had foreign artists from Japan, Lithuania, Singapore, Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Taiwan and the United Arab Emirates participating.

A Closing with Accolades

Indigenous dances were performed during the Davao opening of PIAF

The National Arts Month culminated with the honoring of artists that have reaped awards and recognitions abroad. This was done in a ceremony called Ani ng Dangal on February 28 at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel. The Ani ng Dangal recognized the artists who have garnered international honors the previous year. Among them were film director Brillante Mendoza, the Halili-Cruz Dance Company, poet Marjorie Evasco, the University of Santo Tomas Singers and young painter Marvin Langote. Indeed it was an exciting month for the arts, a veritable showcase of Filipino talents and creativity.

Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

One slowly discovers that there is more to Subicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sheavens Seafront Resort than meets the eye.

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

T LOOKS SIMPLE ENOUGH, WITH NO UNNECESSARY (and sometimes annoying) fanfare to greet the guests. Yet there is a welcoming air behind that no-frills exterior that allows each one their own personal space. And therein lies its charm. Sitting on its perfect spot right on the water is Sheavens’ Clubhouse. It does take a while to appreciate how spacious it is from the outside. And that is why many have referred to the resort as “one of the best kept secrets” in town. But by the looks of the guests who have been arriving in droves, that “secret” is out.

THE SUBTLE CHARM OF SHEAVENS SEAFRONT RESORT By Marko Fojas

The resort is owned by Alin Homan and Bill Chilvers. Chilvers knows the sea and the waters as any true-blue Australian from Perth would. He observes: “Everywhere else is scorching this time of year, so the atmosphere here makes for an ideal vacation spot. And it’s one of the things that makes this place attractive to our customers.” Chilvers continues with the evolution of Sheavens: “Several years ago, only half of the total area you see now was originally used to put up Sheavens. It was sold to a different owner afterwards. The remaining portion was used to build a separate resort. However, we re-acquired Sheavens and merged it with the second resort.” Today, Sheavens boasts of 45 air-conditioned rooms that are fully equipped with 70-channel cable reception, hot and cold water, queen-sized beds and a minibar. Most of these spacious rooms feature a magnificent view of the seafront and tropical garden. And the soft, comfortable beds are positioned to face the water. What better way to welcome the morning?

It is not loud, nor over-the- top. But its warmth draws the traveler to take time off and surrender to its hospitality. Photo courtesy of Sheavens Seafront Resort Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

NOTHER ATTRACTIVE FEATURE OF SHEAVENS is their room rates, which do not increase during peak season and are tailored to fit most budgets. Chilvers adds: “Our rooms - and the resort in general – are designed to cater to all kinds of guests, whether they’re traveling alone on business or leisure, with a partner or with an entire family. And there is only one rate structure for everyone, whether you’re a local or foreign tourist.” Aside from these friendly rates, Sheavens has many other features to make even the most discerning guest happy. For example, there’s ample parking space that’s only 50 meters away from the resort itself. Twenty-four hour security is in place to assure guests of their safety any time of the day. For added protection, management has also extended the courtesy of allowing guests to deposit their valuables in their central safe (complete with an individual bag and lock) to prevent losses. To spare guests from the trouble of hailing a cab, there’s even a roundtrip airport-resort-airport transfer service. “The staff is very friendly as well,” Chilvers says. “They’ll quickly know your name and remember who you are the next time you visit.”

With that kind of service and attention to guests, staying at Sheavens is like spending a relaxing vacation with the family. Such warmth and hospitality make it easy for anyone to strike up a conversation with fellow guests.

Wesley, a visitor from Canada, shared his thoughts. “I’ve traveled around the world, and I can definitely say that this resort is better than a lot of places I’ve been to. As I’m here alone, it’s a relief that it’s so easy to converse with anyone here.” He also has positive remarks about the resort’s menu, which features an eclectic selection of international cuisine. Wesley says that “it’s tough to go to places where the food isn’t flexible for a wide range of tastes.” Yvonne, a child psychologist from New Zealand, agrees. “I’ve been to similar resorts in Tahiti. The menu and service are nowhere near as good as it is here,” she says. Fondly referred to as “Mommy” by the staff, Yvonne continues: “I’m more relaxed here because I feel so welcome and looked after. The food is friendly to different palates, such as certain European diets consisting of meat and vegetables. In other places, you’ll have to struggle just to get a piece of toast.” Sheavens presents an array of global cuisine to choose from. Their expert culinary team strives to elevate the resort’s status with their excellent choices of Chinese, Filipino, Italian, Japanese, Korean and Thai dishes. Chef Rodel Luna will even personally meet with diners upon request to discuss their preferences before preparing great-tasting meals. “I’m prepared to accommodate very particular requests, such as a vegetarian menu,” the chef adds. Other dishes, particularly their signature pizza, are quickly catching on with the locals, thanks to their ever-increasing word-of-mouth popularity. Sheavens’ strategic location also makes it easily accessible to nearby commercial areas like Olongapo for market shopping, or San Fernando for purchasing branded goods. There are also loads of outdoor activities which can be booked directly from the resort. Rent a sea plane and explore the immediate area, including Mt. Pinatubo, from the air. Another one of Subic’s highlights is wreck diving, which takes visitors on breathtaking underwater tours. Or guests can interact with local wildlife through Zoobic Safari and Ocean Adventure. And of course, jetskiing and parasailing are available for water sports enthusiasts. Even under the constant threat of the effects of the global economic crunch, Chilvers doesn’t expect the local tourist trade to slow down any time soon. In fact, he’s anticipating an even larger volume of customers. So much so that the resort is looking into future expansions and upgrades. Well, considering the value-for-money deal and charming hospitality that Sheavens Seafront Resort offers, it will not be a surprise to see the resort filled with happy and contented local and international travelers, this season and all year round.

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

Carrot pineapple juice

WELLNESS

Nurture Spa The Healing Embrace of

Tagaytay

Text and Photos by Gesel P. Mangilit

lang Restaurant

of the Du The outdoor area

ou need not venture far if you seek a oneof-a-kind spa experience steeped in Filipino traditions and culture. Nestled on a 2.6-squaremeter property in Pulong Sagingan is a rustic little cluster of wooden huts called Nurture Spa Village, considered one of the pioneers in bringing worldwide attention to our very own hilot, the Filipino ancient art of healing massage. When Catherine Brillantes-Turvill decided to put up Nurture Spa in 2002, she had in mind a spa that that would draw from our own heritage. After researching into the healing traditions of our forebears, she bought four authentic hundred-year-old ulogs, native Ifugao huts from the Mountain Province, knocked them down and rebuilt them piece by piece in Tagaytay. From those initial four huts, the spa now has 14 accommodationsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the four naturally-ventilated Ifugao huts, six couple rooms and two family rooms. All are scattered over a lovely flowering garden on a sloping hill with stone paths that lead to various parts of the property, which include a wellness center

Garden

view roo

ms overo

oking th

e herb g

arden

for long-staying guests called Kanlungan, four outdoor treatment rooms, an herb garden and a healing path called the Lakad Kagalingan (reflexology stone path). Asian fusion cuisine may be enjoyed inside the air-conditioned Dulang Bistro Restaurant while seated cross-legged on embroidered pillows or at the trellised garden adorned with creeping vines and mini ponds made from talyasi and ancient banga with small kois and floating water lilies in them. An array of healthy dishes with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options uses only the freshest ingredients sourced from around Tagaytay. A must-tries are the Nurture Salad that has fresh greens, kesong puti and Oriental dressing, and the osso buco, beef shank served Batangas kaldereta style. These can be washed down with a healthful drink of carrot-pineapple juice. A pavilion at the west side of the property can accommodate 150 persons, perfect for team buildings and corporate functions, while the garden can ac-

Forest view rooms with a private terrace that overlook the forest

Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

commodate 200 to 250 guests for a truly romantic garden wedding. Nurture Spa receives overnight guests who want to relax and unwind for the weekend or walk-in guests who may want to experience the embrace of a truly Filipino spa experience for an hour or two. Treatments start and end with a relaxing hot ginger tea locally known as salabat. An ancient foot bath ritual called banos (meaning “bath”) is performed, in which the feet is soaked with warm water steeped in healing herbs to promote blood circulation and remove pain or fatigue. Then, as you lie back to enjoy the soothing massage, a music ritual using a Palawan rain flute is performed. Sinaunang Lunas, the spa’s range of ancient cures, offers the traditional Philippine Hilot Kagalingan, usually done to cure cold, sprain or fever and to relieve fatigue. If you have back pains and colds that won’t go away, you are likely to have lamig, excess air, that stays inside the muscle and causes body pain. The spa has two kinds of hot massage therapies Spa room to alleviate this condition. Lunas ni Nanay is a s for cou ples ventosa massage, performed by placing a glass in specific accupoints on the back to create a vacuum and suck out the lamig. The Filipino version of the hot stone massage called nilaib uses steamed hot pouches of Filipino herbs wrapped in banana leaves and places them on the back and on the hands and feet. The dagdagay foot massage is also offered at

Interiors of the Dulang Restaurant

the spa. This is an authentic local massage using herbal clay to cleanse and purify the feet and bamboo sticks to stimulate the soles. Armie, one of the therapists, said our forbears practiced this unique kind of reflexology since massaging their bare feet, with soles thick from not wearing footwear and being exposed to the elements, can be difficult. It was also unhygienic to massage feet with the hands. Since Nurture Spa is surrounded by coffee plantations, it specializes in the aromatic Kape Barako coffee scrub. Other scrubs available are Aliwalas Dead Sea Salt Scrub, the Halimuyak Rose Petal Body Polish and Mayumi Coconut Body Polish. Body wraps include the Manggang Yakap (mango), Sarap ng Papaya (ripe papaya) and Hilom (literally, “healing”) Dead Sea Mud Wrap. Facials available are the Maharlika Lavender (lavender scrub and mud mask), the Makisig Gentleman’s Facial (green clay mask) and the Marikit (honey and lavender scrub with protein mask) for women. The hair also gets special care and attention with the Kaaya-Ayang Buhok treatments that include Hasmin Royal Hair Spa (jasmine oil and extra virgin coco oil) or the Sabila Hair Luster (aloe vera). The spa assures guests a garden enclave of solitude where meditation nooks are situated in various areas of the property—in the verandas of the garden houses or in open treatment areas. Visitors are requested to keep their voices down or maintain silence. Quaint tent structures decorated with white flowing fabric and equipped with massage chairs made of native kamagong hardwood and footbaths are used for outdoor treatments. There, you can enjoy a relaxing foot spa with massage (Hele) or the combination of hand and foot massage they call Pawi. To relieve sore neck and back muscles, opt for the Iglipang Ginhawa. Open air treatment area

Inside the Garden view room

Nurture Spa, known for its signature “floral” strokes, uses only freshly prepared natural ingredients. An excellent pre-treatment to these massages is the suob, in which guests are made to inhale healing unguents to open the skin pores and remove toxins. Their massage menu includes the Kambal Kamay, or four-hand touch. Also popular are the Aruga (care) massage, Haplos ng Ayurveda, or the Magsing-Iirog lovers’ massage for couples. Combinations of several treatments (wraps, scrubs, facials, foot spas) are available in packages such as their Maharlikang Lubos, which can range from two to three hours. Catherine’s husband and business partner, Dr. Mike Turvill, a British chemist, created the Amuin product line, a range of aromatherapy and massage oils used at the spa. Their lemongrass oil is sourced from Mambugsay, Negros Occidental. This, along with other native products such as gift bags and boxes made of abel fabric from Bangar, La Union, and Bulua ceramic cups from Cagayan de Oro, are sold at the spa’s curio shop. Long-staying guests (two days and one night minimum) at the Institute of Natural Healing (INH), headed by Dr. Samuel Dizon, a doctor of natural and alternative medicine, can avail of the Joyful Health Packages. One treatment being offered in this range is the

Nurture Salad

Glowing Beauty, an anti-aging program that includes facial treatment using Biodroga products and Algotherm products for the contouring body wrap. Weight loss and total detoxification programs with holistic healing methods, planned menus, computerized health scan, Qi breathing exercises, acupuncture and colonic enema are also offered to treat serious ailments such as kidney and liver malfunctions, hypertension and even cancer. In June, Nurture Spa will start expansion of the INH building, include more services and promote it as a medi-spa. A condotel with 50 rooms will be built at the adjacent lot, and the forest trails to the banana and coffee plantations will be cleared for guests to enjoy guided eco-tours. Overnight billeting is recommended to make the most of the relaxing visit to Nurture Spa and weekdays, from Tuesday to Thursday, are the best time to visit. The more adventurous may opt for the ulog accommodation, in the company of night sounds and the gentle rush of an artificial waterfalls, lulling one to sleep. Day or night, the cool Tagaytay air and the charming gardens of Nurture Spa can put one in a contemplative mood. There, you are safely cocooned in your own private space, embraced in the warmth of the Filipino’s healing touch and hospitality.

Getting There By private car, Nurture Spa is 45 minutes away from Makati via South Luzon Expressway (SLEX). Take Santa Rosa exit then turn right, following the main road to Tagaytay. Turn right to a small road going to the subdivision of Pulong Sagingan and follow the signs leading to Nurture Spa.

Contact Information Weekday discount of 10 percent may be availed from Monday to Thursday on all treatments (complimentary snacks included). Ifugao rooms are at Php3,500, Garden View room at Php4,500 and Forest View rooms at Php5,500. All have toilets and bath and LCD television. Wifi is available in the pavilion, reception and restaurant. Reservations may be made directly to Nurture Spa through sales manager Noel Tindogan at telephone number (+63 46) 4830805, and mobile numbers (+63 920) 950-5724 and (63 918) 888-8772. The healing stone path called Lakad Kagalingan Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

Aum Spa Blissful Escape at

By Gesel P. Mangilit

ebu is not only known for its rich historical and religious past, it is also a modern bustling city and home to some of the most luxurious accommodations outside Manila. When in Mactan Island, just outside the city, and billeted in one of the many five-star resorts and hotels along its shores, you get the added bonus of some of the best spa treatments in the country Crimson Resort and Spa is an exclusive piece of paradise just 15 minutes away from Mactan’s airport. On this sprawling six-hectare resort facing the Olango Island sanctuary and Hilutungan Channel is a tropical escape of 250 suites and 40 villas, 38 of them outfitted with private plunge pools, set in the Asian contemporary style. There are not one or two but four theme restaurants—Saffron (Asian), Azure Pool Bar (tapas), Tempo Music Lounge (canapes) and Score Sports Bar (Western)—in this private luxury enclave and the 1,000-square meter Coral Ballroom, fit for a king’s banquet. No wonder the resort is a favorite for weddings and big parties and events. Being Filinvest Land’s first foray into the hotel and hospitality industry, nothing was left to chance. No less than architectural and interior design firm Wimberly Allison Tong and Goo (WATG) from California was tapped to masterplan the resort. Landscape architecture is by Belt Collins from Hong Kong, which created a garden atmosphere reminiscent of Balinese-inspired resorts. The result is understated elegance with subdued cream walls and dark wood paneling in its interiors, enhanced by accents of wood, stone and woven natural Philippine fibers, and exteriors that echo a lush tropical paradise. The resort devotes 2,000 square meters to its Aum Spa and Wellness Center, housed in a separate structure, a short walk or a golf cart A skillful blend of modern clean lines and Filipino indigenous materials at one of the spa's open pavilions

The spacious lobby where guests of the spa are treated like royalty the moment they step in

ride from the main resort. The spa derives its name from the word om, a Hindu sacred sound spoken in the beginning and the end of prayers and meditations. Considered as the greatest of all mantras, it also used in the practice of yoga and is related to techniques of auditory meditation. The very act saying “om” or “aum” leads one to a heightened sense of awareness of one’s place in the universe. It is with this philosophy that resort spa consultant Karen Villarica of Mandala Spa conceptualized a spa that would provide guests a place of peace and serenity, where you find your own center and work towards “holding everything together.” With the fast-paced lifestyle we are leading, searching and finding that place is priceless indeed. Tucked away in its private place, the spa’s entrance welcomes you with a nurturing embrace the moment you set foot at the cavern88

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

ous reception area. Croissant-shaped Kenneth Cobonpue loungers neatly arranged against a spirit wall invite you to take a seat and enjoy the soothing sound of water gushing from the mini falls located on the sides of the receiving area. After perusing the spaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menu of treatments and given a choice between a one-hour or a two-hour massage (I settled for the onehour massage), spa manager Melissa Montesclaro gave me a short tour of the spa while my assigned therapist prepared the treatment room. Aum Spa has 14 rooms. Massages may be arranged in the comfort of the rooms or in one of the open pavilions. You pass by a series of European-inspired stone-cast fountainheads spewing out water that gently flow into one horizontal pool before you find one of the air tub Soak in the open-

as a pre-treatment

in one of the indoor

spa rooms

Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

spacious Balinese-inspired open pavilions. Modern clean lines, indigenous materials like grass for the roofing and the muted earth tones of the stone floor make the room a relaxing place for treatments. Tastefully appointed with two massage beds; a huge, immaculately clean bathtub; and a pocket garden of bamboo and tropical plants, the rooms provide a Zen experience. Montesclaro said the wellness center offers the Aum Half Day Spa Experience in which, for a full four hours, guests are treated to a day of pampering in one of the open spa villas. Stress-reducing treatments come in fanciful names such as Tropical Getaway, Aum Luxury Escape and Ultimate Retreat, which include a welcome foot ritual and water therapy sessions at the spa pool.

vate and group yoga, tai chi and meditation lessons held at the open cabanas where one can spread yoga mats on the wooden floor and spend the day in deep, soulful meditation. A steam and sauna room and an outdoor pool with a spacious sundeck have plenty of loungers to allow one to soak in the sun after-treatment while sipping Gingered Oranges, Aum’s signature drink, a calming and revitalizing drink of ginger ale, fresh organic juice, calamansi and lemon twist. After the tour, we headed back to the room, our staccato footsteps echoing in the stone courtyard. I was ushered into the changing rooms and into the spa room where for the next hour or so the trained hands of the therapist transported me to a blissful state of nothingness as I felt my muscles being kneaded and stretched as soft piped-in music filled the air. I chose the Aum Signature massage, a combination stroke massage that applies the The courtyard, with its stone fountain heads and pool leads to a row of open spa pavilions with grass roofing right pressure on just the right spots on the shoulder and lower back using lavender-infused virgin coconut oil. After a day of exploring the resort and savoring the delicious food prepared by master chef Stefano Lerillo at the spanking Saffron Restaurant, there was nothing more gratifying than to just lie back and find that inner calm while my body was being restored to health. Other signature treatments are the Aum Deep Tissue Massage, ideal for severe or chronic muscle tightness, and the Aum Healing Stone Massage, two hours and 15 minutes of bliss guaranteed to transport one to state of healing and health. One-hour treatments such as the traditional hilot, Thai and Shiatsu massage, foot reflexology, prenatal massage and a Teen Spa are offered to guests. And if those are not enough, they also have body wraps and scrubs. The spa offers detox and firming body wraps such as Phytomer Seatonic Firming Wrap, the Rhassoul Body Wrap, Dead Sea body wrap and the The spa pool with its sun deck loungers is a perfect after-sun cooling body treatment. Body scrubs come with place to relax while enjoying one the spa's health drinks a tantalizing blend of fruit and herbal formulas such as the Spicy Sugar Scrub, Wild Orange Calamondine Body Polish, Tropical Fruit Body Scrub, Jasmine Body Scrub, Coffee Invigorating Body Glow and the Aromatherapy Salt Rubdown. Anti-aging facial treatments include the Babor HSR Glamor Lifting Facial with Gold, Tropical Revitalizing Facial (lime and pineapple), and the Phytomer Skin Escape for Men. Aum Spa day entrance is at Php1,800 in case you want to indulge in a spa experience for a few hours. However, an overnight stay at one of the resort’s spacious beachfront, oceanfront and private pool villas is an experience one should not miss. To this I say, “om”, a prayer that someday I might visit the resort again to find myself lost in this tropical paradise.

For the weary traveler, recommended treatments under the Spa Journeys menu are the Tranquility, Rejuvenation, Renewal and Jet Lag packages. Those pressed for time can avail of the Aum Express Relief, 45-minute massage therapy for the head, neck, back and shoulders using herbal-infused hot compresses placed on the back and foot. Long-staying guests can avail of the Aum Lifestyle Classes, pri90

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Contact Information Crimson Beach Resort and Spa is located at Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan Island, Cebu, Philippines with telephone number (+63 32) 401-9999, fax number (+ 63 32) 401.9998 and email info.mactan@crimsonhotel.com. Their Metro Manila sales office is at Unit 2202, PBCom Tower, 6795 Ayala Avenue corner V. A. Rufino Street, Makati City, with telephone number (+ 63 2) 728-0005 and fax number (+ 63 2) 729-0077.

ENDEAVOR A photo of the Mahatao Lighthouse in Batanes by Chasing Light, as with their other photos, brought home the idea of seeing the beauty of the Philippines through fresh eyes.

uests used paper airplanes pasted onto locations on a giant Philippine map as pledges to visit at least one Philippine destination within the year at the launch of the Bonamine Basta Pinas domestic travel advocacy campaign launch on March 22, 2011. Department of Tourism (DoT) Secretary Alberto Lim obliged Johnson and Johnson marketing manager Tina Sabarre’s invitation to commit with his pledge to visit Bantayan Island in Cebu. Launched in support of the DoT’s “Pilipinas Tara Na!” domestic travel advocacy, Bonamine’s Basta Pinas campaign encourages Filipinos everywhere to visit the country’s islands and see them through a fresh perspective. Bringing this idea to life at the launch was a “walking tour” through the Philippines’ wonders by hosts Ivan Henares, a known travel enthusiast who has visited all 79 provinces, and Ivan Man Dy, famed for his walking tours of Manila’s heritage sites. Paknaan Bridge, Cebu Providing a visual perspective to the campaign idea were the landscape photographs of partner Chasing Light whose founding members Edwin Martinez and Jay Jallorina capture the beauty of the Philippines with visually arresting images far removed from the usual. “Bonamine’s Basta Pinas campaign is all about fresh perspective: seeing places you may have visited before from a different angle. It’s about discovery and re-discovery,” explains Johnson and Johnson senior brand manager Jerome Go. “Through our advocacy we also hope to inspire other companies to take on domestic tourism as their advocacy as we all do our part to help the government, through the Department of Tourism, raise awareness and promote appreciation for that which we call home,“ added Christine Balingit, Johnson and Johnson marketing manager-OTC. Bonamine first launched a domestic-travel advocacy in 2003 called Tara Na! Biyahe Tayo! With airline and shipping companies that offer low fares making travel even easier since then, the brand’s

Filipinos to Rediscover the Philippines with Fresh Eyes Encouraging

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

Liliw, Laguna

Guests pledged to visit at least one province in 2011 by placing paper airplanes on a giant Philippine map.

The Johnson & Johnson team exchanged framed campaign logos with the DoT Secretary Alberto Lim and director Cynthia Lazo to seal their commitment to supporting the Department of Tourism’s “Pilipinas, Tara Na!” domestic travel advocacy through the “Basta Pinas” campaign.

invitation now is to see the country through fresh eyes. Facilitating this “fresh perspective” on the digital space are the Basta Pinas Facebook page (facebook.com/BastaPinas) and a soon-to-launch Basta Pinas Web site which will contain not just destination ideas and how-to-get there information but also other people’s stories to inspire personalizing one’s own journeys. The site also assists in seeing the familiar setting in fresh ways with suggestions such as: visiting locations where a local film was shot, taking a photo every hundred steps, or visiting old school grounds. “Like any good story, the best, and sometimes, most accurate, travel stories are those that are passed on from one person to another. This is what we hope the Basta Pinas Web site and Facebook page will be: places where people can share their travel stories and by doing so, help would-be travelers find their way,” says Go. “The Basta Pinas campaign reinforces messages that the Philippines has much more to offer and creates more excitement in the rediscovery of multifarious elements in our country: historical, cultural, ecotourism, adventure,” said Secretary Alberto Lim. “And there are reasons that we do this collectively. The first one is that 26 million have traveled around the country and knowing the economic impact of domestic tourism, we would like more of our countrymen to do the same. The second one is that domestic tourism helps redistribute wealth in the countryside. Third, tourism is a people industry. This being so, it matters that domestic tourism’s impact on the educational and social aspects of society become more effective through a galvanized effort such as this campaign as this could lead to the mobilization of a socio-culturally heightened citizenry who could make a great difference for their own country.”

Posing for posterity with the Basta Pinas campaign logo: DoT Secretary Alberto Lim; Department of Tourism director for Domestic Tourism Promotions Cynthia Lazo, Johnson & Johnson marketing director Tina Sabarre and senior brand manager Jerome Go.

Fitting hosts for a domestic travel advocacy launch: travel enthusiast Ivan Henares and Manila heritage sites authority Ivan Man Dy of Old Manila Walks.

Dancers sway as drums play to the "Tara Na, Biyahe Tayo" theme , welcoming guests to the launch of the Bonamine Basta Pinas DomesticTravel Advocacy

Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

DINING The restaurant interior

Cagayan de Oro Creole Cuisine at the Heart of

By Gesel P. Mangilit

Many of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s travelers count dining out as among their favorite things to do when they visit a place. On touchdown, the first order of the day would be to eagerly seek out dining places. Some regions are identified with a particular type of cuisine, but every now and then you find a few wonderful surprises along the way. For instance, one would never expect to find a good Creole restaurant in Cagayan de Oro. Apparently, there is one, right at the heart of downtown CdO. Bourbon St. Bistro, located in a strip of restaurants near the Limketkai Center, is one of the booming cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best-kept secret. It is named after the famous street in New Orleans, Louisiana, which is home to many bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Proprietors Drew and Nicole Mills, who both studied classic culinary arts at the French Culinary Institute in New York City, have been coming to CdO for vacations until one day they decided

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

Chocolate Cup of Love

Bagnets with Caramel Sauce

The restaurant’s facade features an authentic World War II bomber plane

The Ceviche Agua Chili

Cajun Tacos, a house favorite

to stay for good. Armed with eight years of experience working at some of the finest restaurants in the Big Apple and Beverly Hills, the husband-and-wife team opened the bistro a year ago. Since then the place has made a name for itself as the go-to place for those who want to experience authentic Creole cuisine at a price that won’t cost an arm and a leg. Creole cuisine is a melting pot cuisine that blends French, Spanish, Caribbean, Mediterranean , South American and African influences. Drew, who hails from Louisiana, could not have found a better place to wield his culinary skills and recreate the flavors of his youth than in CdO where there is an abundance of inexpensive ingredients and fresh seafood, the very foundation of New Orleansstyle cooking. “We take pride in using only the freshest produce in and around Cagayan de Oro, and with the farm just ten minutes away we are assured of quality ingredients. I also love that we are doing our share in supporting the farming communities here,” says Drew. On a typical day, the Mills run the bistro like a mom and pop store, with Drew and Nicole taking turns manning the counters and taking orders themselves. The bistro, with its laidback and intimate atmosphere, may be a small restaurant serving what the couple Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

Pan-seared chicken

Olive oil poached tilapia atchafalaya

claims as simple meals. But on sampling their dishes, one finds there is definitely nothing simple in the way these wonderful chefs painstakingly prepare them. Everything is made from scratch, in the true tradition of a well-trained chef with an eye to detail and presentation. The ceviche agua chili, a tantalizing blend of freshly caught malasugi (swordfish) filleted, quartered and swimming in a tangy/ sweet blend of lemon chili, shaved red onions, tomato and cucumber, bursts inside the mouth in a surprising array of textures and flavors. It is kinilaw na malasugi with a New Orleans twist. For a hearty fare, one can follow this up a main entrée of either pan-seared chicken, stuffed chicken legs sautéed in vegetables and chicken jus and served on a bed of hot potato puree; or Bourbon glazed pork belly, pork belly dripping with a rich sauce of sweet onion jam and served with a braised greens on the side. For the vegetarian or healthconscious, a good choice would be the olive oil poached tilapia atchafalaya, a delectable dish of tilapia fillet in sherry shallot vinaigrette and served with tomato arugula salad and herbed potato on the side. To cap the meal, try the bistro’s fluffy Bourbon glazed pork belly pillows of sugar-sprinkled pastries dripping with homemade caramel sauce. A new item on their growing list of dessert fares is the Chocolate Cup of Love, a concoction of moist chocolate cake, banana foam and vanilla ice cream served in small tequila shot glass and topped with a sliver of dark chocolate. For bar chow, try the Cajun tacos, a house favorite. Barely a year into their operation, the Mills have yet to take a vacation, so busy with bistro’s growing clientele made up of locals and recently more and more out-of-towners. Nicole, a Cagay-anon, is not surprised with the turnout of guests who want to sample the bistro’s unique fare. 96

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

“With the many cooking shows we see on television, people are beginning to experiment. For instance, some who would call themselves a foodie but not necessarily an expert find themselves drawn to our kind of cuisine,” shares Drew. It’s not surprising that the Cagay-anons’ dining preference have evolved from the usual Filipino buffet or fastfood to something more sophisticated. Nicole, however, modestly brushes this aside, saying their menu is simple French Quarter fare, food which Drew grew up with. “Different perhaps, but really just home-style cooking. We simply want to make good food and share it with people,” she says. Contact Information Bourbon St. Bistro is located at Rosario Arcade, Limketkai Center , Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro, with telephone number (+63 88) 856-5555. For inquiries, e-mail bourbonstbistro@gmail.com.

Bistro Rem

Filipino Cuisine Enhanced at

Bistro Remedios Photos by Donal Tapan

istro Remedios, hailed as the “Filipino restaurant with a Kapampangan accent,” started the practice of serving homecooked Filipino meals in a bistro setting. Through the years, dishes such as Knockout Knuckles, betute, Crispy Tadyang “D’ Original,” pako fern and tomato salad, crispy camaru, kare-kare and many more delighted diners, both local and foreign, for their fresh flavors while the restaurant’s warm and tasteful ambience of folk art and authentic antique memorabilia added to this unique dining experience. When Bistro Remedios opened in 1984, no restaurant served Filipino food in the casual dining atmosphere the restaurant is known for. Diners then had to rely on roadside eateries, turo-turo and market stalls if they wished to have a meal of Pinoy favorites away from their homes. Some five-star establishments did serve Filipino food, but it was merely a token entry in their menus. The late journalist and restaurateur Larry J. Cruz founded the LJC Group of Restaurants. The thirty-year old LJC Restaurant chain now owns and manages Café Adriatico, Café Havana, Larry’s Café and Bar, Abe, Fely J’s Kitchen, ITM Dance Club, LaMer Catering and Abe’s Farm. With Bistro Remedios, Cruz redefined the way Filipino

food was presented. By bringing innovation to Filipino food and plating these as you would international dishes, he introduced diners to a new way of enjoying what was considered roadside. Slowly, the restaurant became popular for foreign visitors who want a sampling of good Filipino food. Filipinos bring their foreigner friends to the bistro to get introduced to Filipino food. Today, the restaurant is one of the most recommended stops for tourists, balikbayans and Pinoys who want the best in Philippine cuisine. Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

Bistro Remedios sits along M. Adriatico Street, near Remedios Circle and just across Cafe Adriatico, the fist LJC restaurant. The main dining area can seat about 130 persons, while the Grill Section can accommodate about 40. A private dining room for 15 people is also available. For starters, one can go for crispy crablets, cultured little crabs deep-fried to crispness and served with a spicy sauce, or the kinilaw na tanigue, raw tuna fillet with palm vinegar, ginger and chives. If adventurous, there is the adobong balut. Those carving for soups can choose among the restaurant’s array of Filipino classics with much broth such as the bulalo, binacol (a Visayan dish of chicken cooked with young coconut meat), tinolang manok and sinigang, which comes several varieties: pork, kanduli with mustard leaves, milkfish belly and shrimp in guava. The sinuam na mais is recommended. It is a refreshing starter of fresh young corn with shrimps and chilli leaves. This can be followed by either a salad of fern with tomato and salted red egg or a salad of blanched squash flower with tomato and onions One may be stuffed but could not help partake of Bistro Remedios’s main attractions. From the founder’s hometown comes Gule Magalang, squash flowers with broiled catfish. From the Bicol Region is the laing, taro leaves in spicy coconut cream. The restaurant is proud of its Crispy Tadyang “D’ Original,” marinated beef rib deep-fried to crispness, which is said to be “widely copied but in vain,” and the Binukadkad na Crispy Pla-Pla, butterflied fried tilapia with balo-balo and mustard leaves. Other specials include sugpo sa aligue, prawns simmered in crab fat and lemon; kare-kareng buntot baka, oxtail stewed in peanut sauce with assorted vegetables; kalderetang kambing, goat meat stew; and Pagi Pampapogi, shredded stingray meat cooked in coconut milk with malunggay leaves. A whole section of the menu is dedicated to Pampangan dishes, which includes betute, fried frogs with minced pork stuffing, and kamaru or crickets sauteed with onions and tomatoes. These dishes can be enjoyed with Bamboo Rice, mountain rice cooked with shrimps, wood ear mushrooms and bamboo shoots and steamed in a bamboo tube; and rice cooked in crab fat and garlic olive oil. Among its array of desserts, the Sikreto ni Maria, suman with slices of mango and drenched with cream, is one tantalizing item.

A treasure trove of Filipino dishes: Kangkong Lechon, rellenong bangus, Crispy Tadyang “D’ Original” and crispy crablets

Contact Information Bistro Remedios is located at 1911 M. Adriatico Street, Remedios Circle, Malate, Manila, with telephone numbers (+63 2) 523-9153 and 523-9153. It is open Monday to Friday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. For more information on the LJC Group of restaurants, call 522-9163 or visit the LJC Group Web site at www.ljcrestaurants.com.ph.

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

ENCOUNTER

Flying has figured significantly in the life of engineer Elpidio M. Paras. The enterprising businessman, pilot and president of Parasat Cable TV, Inc. met his wife at the airport while traveling from Manila, where he studied mechanical engineering at the Dela Salle University, to his hometown of Cagayan de Oro. In the 1980s, they put up a restaurant that had an authentic World War II bomber plane on its façade. It is his love of flight that he got involved in a flying accident that almost cost him his life. An American friend brought with him a flying kit and Paras, an adventurer and aspiring pilot with 20 hours of flight time to his name, was the test pilot. “We’ve been testing it for a week when the accident happened. I guess I became cocky and overconfident. I sustained serious injuries—eleven broken bones in various parts of my body—and I was in traction for two-and-a-half months,” he relates. He had a thriving electronics repair company at that time and was also running a fastfood restaurant and video rental shop. His company installed some of the first digital lighting and amplified sound systems in discos in the region while his restaurant, the Sesame Sandwhich, offered widescreen television coverage of sports events and music videos. “We already had four branches in Cagayan but when Jollibee came in the competition was tough so we had to sell the business. We were also encountering labor disputes at that time,” he shares. Undeterred, Paras would later open Tia Nanang’s, named after his mother, which was the first to introduce the concept of Filipino buffet in Cagayan de Oro. They also opened an American diner called P. Joe’s, the one with the bomber plane. It was around this time that Paras had started to tinker with the satellite dish that his American friend also brought. When satellite television first hit the market in the early late 1980s, home dishes were expensive metal units that took up a huge chunk of yard space. Paras, who lives by the adage “modify, create, innovate,” managed to design a better version using locally-sourced yet sturdy materials. His firm, then called Paras Electro Systems, was the first to build and install satellite dish antennas in homes, restaurants and hotels in the Visayas and Mindanao. By the early 1990s, he began building antennas for the cable television industry. “We were the first in the region to bring in news in real time,” says Paras, who worked closely with Senator Ramon Magsaysay, Jr., also a mechanical engineer graduate, and known as “the father of cable television” in the country. Today, Parasat Cable, Inc. is known as the largest cable TV company in northern Mindanao, providing over 70 channels of programming, broadband Internet service and voiceover IP telephony to its customers. When Paras is not busy with business and community projects, he would hie off to his Bukidnon property to relax and unwind. “His paradise,” as he is wont to say, is the Dahilayan Adventure Park, which has the longest dual speed zip line in Asia at 840 meters, which he himself designed. Apparently, his accident did not kill his love for flying; it fueled instead a desire to share the exhilarating experience of flight to everyone, young and old, in the safest way possible. “When we bought the property in Bukidnon in 2000 it was nothing more than a cogonal area. My brother was the one who convinced us to buy,” he says. Intending to build a vacation home where the family can enjoy cool mountain air in the summer, Paras planted the bare land with 20,000 pine trees. Cagayan de Oro was beginning to become known as the whitewater rafting capital in the country, and Paras had just opened Great White Water Tours. “We thought, what else is there for our guests to do after shooting the rapids in the morning? We looked to the Bukidnon property and realized that with the hilly terrain, it is the perfect place to build a zip line,” says Paras. The zip line is an emerging adventure sport in Cagayan de Oro, and bringing it to Bukidnon is a perfect business opportunity. Next came accommodations for the park’s guests. Paras built the Pinegrove Mountain Lodge, now undergoing finishing touches, which can comfortably house 50 persons. Together with the adjacent Forest Park, which has three rooms and is currently building nine more, the Dahilayan Adventure Park is ready for the peak season of April to May. All his children are involved in his many businesses. The running joke

Elpie and Rose Paras

Daughter Rina with son-in-law Ravi help Elpie run the Dahilayan ZipZone

The Flights of

Elpidio Paras By Gesel P .Mangilit among his friends is that he is running out of children to manage the family business. Elpie, as he is best known, and beautiful wife Rose Violeta, who took up pharmacy at the Centro Escolar University in Manila, has seven children from their 34 years of marriage. Four of their children are involved in the Paras enterprise. The eldest, Roxanne, runs the Great White Water Tours. Rina, married to Ravi Michael Victorio (a DLSU engineering graduate who helps run the ZipZone), is his chief operating officer at Parasat Cable. She also owns the Ban Sabai Spa in downtown Cagayan de Oro. Alex runs the Arriba Telecontact, Inc., a telemarketing service company. Roselle owns Coffeeworks, which has a branch in CdO and SM North Edsa Manila, and soon-to-open branches in Boracay and Iligan. The other three are Rebecca, a doctor; Angelica, currently taking up BS Advertising at the De La Salle University; and Adrian, 15, who is a high school student at the Cagayan de Oro Xavier University. Three-time president of the Philippine Cable Television Association Inc. (PCTA), an umbrella organization of cable television operators in the Philippines, Paras also served as Rotary Club president and is very much involved in community projects in his hometown. When Cagayan de Oro, Gingoog and twelve towns in Misamis Oriental were hit by floods in 2009, he deployed his rafts from the Great White Water Tours to rescue survivors. A history buff, Paras is involved in helping the city government promote Cagayan de Oro as a cultural hub. He is chairperson of the MacArthur Memorial Committee and was the one who designed the biggest replica of General Douglas McArthur’s “scrambled egg cap” at the Macabalan Port. The marker commemorates the famous general’s landing in Cagayan de Oro in March 13, 1942, after his escape from Corrregidor. One of the city’s flagship project, dubbed the “Golden Mile,” a one-kilometer riverside walking development along the Cagayan de Oro River, is yet another project Paras finds himself involved in. It includes construction of a walkbridge which will span across the Cagayan de Oro River, and a threestorey building for the city library, city museum and a 360-degree view deck. Paras has proposed the inclusion of a riverside cruise using amphibious tour buses, similar to that of Singapore’s duck tours, to attract more tourists. Paras’s dream is to one day see his city prosper and become more than just a destination for adventure sports. “As they say, build and they will come. We are literally taking off,” he says. Volume 7 Number 1, 2011 EXPERIENCE Travel and Living |

TRANSPORT

Finnair in Southeast Asia

innair will begin scheduled flights on May 30, 2011, to the sparkling, pulsating five-million-inhabitant metropolis of Singapore. Singapore will be Finnair’s tenth scheduled flight destination in Asia. Finnair will also be the only airline to offer a daily connection between Singapore and Northern Europe with a timetable tailored to the needs of business passengers. Finnair’s Singapore flight will be the fastest connection between Northern Europe and Singapore. At the same time, the route will offer good onward connections for passengers continuing to other destinations from Singapore and Helsinki. For passengers coming from Asia, the Singapore route will offer connections via Finnair’s route network to 50 European destinations. Via Singapore, on the other hand, passengers can travel conveniently to Australia and Southeast Asia using Finnair’s comprehensive partner network. The Singapore route will also offer excellent leisure travel opportunities not only in Singapore itself, but also in the neighbouring countries of Malaysia and Indonesia. “We have already achieved recognition in Singapore. Our local customers are impressed by the daily connection and a flight schedule suitable to a daily rhythm. Viewed from Singapore, Finnair’s new scheduled flights offer connections to the whole of Europe. In addition to Singapore, we expect to attract passengers particularly from Australia,” says Petteri Kostermaa, head of Finnair’s Singapore sales unit. Kostermaa has the task of selling the tickets of a relatively unknown Eu-

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ropean airline. What sales assets will Finnair use to attract customers at the new destination? Most Asian passengers want to travel at night. “In this way, they save on hotel costs and working time. Seen from Singapore, Finnair is therefore a superior product: a daily connection with a suitable timetable,” explains Kostermaa. Finnair flies daily from Helsinki to Singapore at 11:30 P.M. The flight arrives at Singapore at 4:10 P.M. A flight to Helsinki leaves at 11:30 P.M. and reaches the destination at 6:35 A.M. And what else is important? Well, the range of destinations offered, of course. The wide-bodied aircraft will scarcely be filled with Singaporeans who want to acquaint themselves en masse with Helsinki alone. “There certainly are some, however. Singaporeans are keen and curious travellers, and they have not been offered flights to the Nordic countries before. Finland as a country and Nordic nature are known to Singaporeans, and they are also interested in Finland’s high level of education. More important for Finnair, however, is to present itself as an airline of the whole of Europe, because there are excellent onward connections from the Singapore flights to our 50 or so European destinations,” says Kostermaa. Singapore is also home to many people who have moved from Europe to Singapore to work. “The family and friends of these people are often in Europe, which naturally gives rise to travel needs,” observes Kostermaa. Finnair’s Singapore route is expected to be used most, however, by those who travel in their work between Singapore and the cities of Europe. A smooth transfer at Helsinki Airport is therefore absolutely essential, as to many European destinations there are no direct flight from Asia, so passengers have to change somewhere. Prime position, therefore, is held by the

when due attention is paid to cultural differences,” concludes Kostermaa.

New Lounge Facilities at Bangkok Airport

company which can offer the best timetable and the smoothest transfer. “Many people are fed up with the congestion and slowness of the big airports. Helsinki is efficient and compact, and when passengers change flights there’s no need for them to move from one terminal to another. In addition, time is gained due to the fact that the most direct route from Asia to most of Europe runs via Helsinki,” says Kostermaa. For business passengers, a transfer is not necessarily a bad thing, on the contrary. “After a night flight, it’s nice to stretch one’s legs and prepare for the working day in a lounge. Moreover, the Finnair Spa and Saunas, which opened in December 2009, is a considerable sales asset—one not to be found elsewhere in Europe. A shower, a sauna and even an invigorating massage before arriving at one’s final destination gives a totally different start to a day of meetings,” adds Kostermaa. The product aimed at Finnair’s business passengers is, according to Kostermaa, top quality. “Our business class is magnificent. There is not a huge number of business class seats in our aircraft, so an exclusive milieu is maintained. We are better able to attend to and recognize each of our customers, which is an important part of a distinctive service experience. I certainly intend to get to know every one of our business class passengers departing from Singapore,” says Kostermaa. Of Finnair´s Asian flight passengers, generally half come from Asia and half from Europe. The exception is the Japan routes, on which around 70 to 80 percent of passengers are from Japan. On Thailand flights, most of the passengers, in contrast, are from Scandinavia. “The passenger distribution of Singapore flights may be similar to the other Asian flights, but we also expect a passenger stream from Australia,” says Kostermaa. The same requirement applies to Singapore as to Finnair’s other Asian destinations: if the goal is to attract locals onto the flights, then the cabin crew must include individuals who know the local language and culture. “Singapore is a multi-cultural country, so many kinds of special characteristics have to be taken into consideration when serving and interacting with customers. Asian cultures differ substantially from European cultures and also from one another. Local service staff both in the cabin and in sales work is therefore above all a guarantee of good service and attentiveness to customers. Many misunderstandings and obvious blunders are avoided

New lounge facilities, located on two levels, have been opened for Finnair Business Class passengers at Bangkok Airport. The new Louis Tavern CIP First and Business Class Lounges are found on Concourse G, levels 3 and 4, after passport control, opposite gates G1 and G2. Level 4 is on the same floor as check-in and passport control. Both lounges have their own smoking room inside the lounge, and a small corner for golf enthusiasts. A private room in the First Class lounge can be reserved in advance. The lounge offers a bar, showers and free Internet access. Customers can ask for a user code from the reception when they want to use their own laptop. The Qantas/British Airways Business Class Lounge is still open for Finnair Plus Platinum, Gold and Silver members. It is also located on Concourse G, level 3, after passport control. Finnair, one of the world’s oldest operating airlines, was established on November 1, 1923. Its operations focus on transporting passengers between Europe and Asia, via Helsinki. In recent years, Finnair has emerged as a major player in traffic between Asia and Europe. Finnair’s intercontinental destinations in Asia include Seoul in South Korea; Delhi in India; Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong in China; Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya in Japan; and Bangkok in Thailand. Starting in the end of May 2011 Finnair will also start flying to Singapore, and from June 2011 Finnair will increase its frequency to Hong Kong from seven to twelve flights per week. Finnair’s European route network offers several daily frequencies to all major European cities. Timetables are built in such a way that they offer quick connections to the Asian flights.

Contact Information For sales, contact telephone numbers (+63 2) 856-1420 to 21.For reservation, contact (+63 2) 856-1427.

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TRAVEL DIRECTORY

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM OFFICES National Capital Region Rm. 207, Department of Tourism Bldg., T.M. Kalaw St., Ermita, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 523-8411 to 20 Web site: www.wowphilippines.com.ph Ilocos Region (I) Oasis Country Resort Hotel National Highway, Sevilla, San Fernando, La Union Phone: (072) 888-2411/2098 Fax: 888-2098 Email: dotregion1@pldtdsl.net Laoag Sub-Office Room 207, Ilocano Heroes Memorial Hall, Laoag City Phone: (077) 722-1473 Fax: (077) 722-0467 Email: dotlaoag@digitelone.com Cordillera Administrative Region DOT Complex, Gov. Pack Road, Baguio City Phone: (074) 442-8848/7014 Fax: (074) 442-8848 Email: dotcar@pldtdsl.net Cagayan Valley Region (II) No. 29-A, Rizal St. Tuguegarao City, Cagayan Phone: (078) 844-1621, 846-2435 Fax: 846-2435 Email: dotr02@yahoo.com Web site: www.dotregion2.com.ph Central Luzon (III) Hilaga Village San Fernando City, Pampanga Phone: (045) 961-2665, 961-2612 Fax: 961-2612 Email: celtour@yahoo.com Southern Tagalog Regions (IV) Room 208, Department of Tourism Bldg., T.M. Kalaw St., Ermita, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 524-1969, 524-1528 and 526-7656 Fax: 526-7656 Email: lcjurilla@tourism.gov.ph Bicol Region (V) Regional Center Site Rawis, Legaspi City, Albay Phone: (052) 482-0712, 820-3664 Fax: 482-0715 Email: dotr5@globalink.net.ph Web site: www.wowbicol.com Western Visayas (VI) Western Visayas Tourism Center Capitol Ground, Bonifacio Drive, Iloilo City Phone: (033) 337-5411, 509-3550 Fax: 335-0245 Mobile: 0917-722-6691 Email: deptour6@mozcom.com

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Web site: www.corporate.mozcom.com/dot, www.westernvisayastourism.com.ph Boracay Field Office Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Phone: (036) 288-3689 Web site: www.boracay.com Central Visayas (VII) Ground floor, LDM Bldg., Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu City Tel. (032) 254-2811, 254-6077 and 254-6650 Email: dotregion7@gmail.com, dotcebu@gmail.com Eastern Visayas (VIII) Ground floor, Foundation Plaza Bldg., Leyte Park Resort Compound, Magsaysay Blvd., Tacloban City Phone: (053) 321-2048, 321-4333 Fax: 325-5279 Email: dotreg8@yahoo.com Web site: www.visiteasternvisayas.ph Zamboanga Peninsula (IX) Lantaka Hotel by the Sea Valderosa St., Zamboanga City Tel. (062) 991-0218 Fax: 993-0030 Email: dotr9@yahoo.com Northern Mindanao (X) Gregorio Pelaez Sports Center, A.Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City Phone: (08822) 726-394, 723-696, 856-4048 and 858-8866 Fax: 723-696 Email: dotr10@yahoo.com Davao Region (XI) Rm. 512, Landco Corporate Center Bldg., J.P. Laurel Avenue, Davao City Phone: (082) 221-6955, 487-0659 Fax: 221-0070 / 225-1940 Email: dotr11@yahoo.com Web site: www.discoverdavao.com Soccsksargen (XII) Second floor, COMSE Bldg., Quezon Ave., Cotabato City Phone: (064) 421-1110 Fax: 421-7868 Email: dot12@greendot.com.ph Koronadal Sub-Office Ground floor, Marvella Plaza Hotel, Gen Paulino Santos Drive, Koronadal City Phone: (083) 228-8667 Caraga Region (XIII) Ground floor, Grateful Realty Corp. Bldg., 88 Pili Drive, Butuan City Phone: (085) 341-8413 Fax: 815-6040 Email: dotr13@yahoo.com Web site: www.dotcaraga.ph

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

EMBASSIES and CONSULATES Australia Level 23-Tower 2, RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City 1200 Phone: (+63) 2 757 8100 Fax: (+63) 2 7578 268 Web site: www.philippines.embassy.gov.au Email: manila.consular@dfat.gov.au Belgium 9th floor, Multinational Bancorporation Centre, 6805 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: + (63) 2 845-1869 Fax: + (63) 2 845-2076 Web site: www.diplomatie.be/manila Email: manila@diplobel.org Brazil 16th floor, Liberty Center, 104 H.V. dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 845-3651 to 53 Fax: (+63) 2 845-3676 Email: brasemb@info.com.ph Brunei Darussalam 11th Floor BPI Building, Ayala Avenue cor. Paseo De Roxas, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 816-2836, 891-6646 Fax: (+63) 2 816-2876 Cambodia Unit 7A-B, Country Space 1 Building, Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63-2) 818-9981, 810-1896 Fax: (+63-2) 818-9983 Email: cam.emb.ma@netasia.net Canada Level 6, 7 and 8, Tower II, RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 857-9000 Fax: (+63) 2 843-1082 Web site: www.manila.gc.ca China 4896 Pasay Road, Dasmarinas Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 844-3148, 843-7715 Fax: (+63) 2 845-2465, 843-9974 Email: chinaemb_ph@mfa.gov.cn Denmark 51st floor, PBCOM Tower, 6795 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Manila, Philippines Phone: (+63) 2 815-8015 Fax: (+63) 2 815-8017 Email: mnlconsul@maersk.com Egypt 2229 Paraiso cor. Banyan Sts., Dasmarinas Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 843-9220 Fax : (+63) 2 843-9239

Finland 21st Floor BPI Buendia Center, Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 891-5011 to 15 Fax: (+63) 2 891-4107 Web site: www.finland.ph Email: sanomat.mni@formin.fi France 16th floor, The Pacific Star Bldg., Makati Ave. cor. Sen. Gil Puyat Ext., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 810-1981/8 Fax: (+63) 2 813-1908 Germany 25/F Tower 2, RCBC Plaza 6819 Ayala Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-4906 Fax: (+63) 2 810-4703 Web site: www.manila.diplo.de Email: germanembassymanila@ surfshop.net.ph India 2190 Paraiso St. Dasmarinas Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 815-8151 Fax: (+63) 2 815-8151 Web site: www.embindia.org.ph Email: amb@embindia.org.ph Indonesia 185 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-5061/68 Fax: (+63) 2 892-5878, 818-4441 Web site: www.kbrimanila.org.ph Email: fungsipensosbud@yahoo.com.ph Ireland 3rd floor, Maxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bldg., 70 Jupiter St., Bel-Air, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 896-4668 Fax: (+63) 2 897-8534 Email: irishcon@info.com.ph Israel 23rd floor, Trafalgar Plaza, H.V. dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-5330 Fax: (+63) 2 894-1027 Web site: www.manila.mfa.gov.il Email: info@manila.mfa.gov.il Italy 6th floor, Zeta Bldg. 191 Salcedo St. Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-4531/2/3 Fax: (+63) 2 817-1436 Email: informazioni.manila@esteri.it Japan 2627 Roxas Blvd., Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 551-5710 Fax: (+63) 2 551-5785, 551-5780 Web site: www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp Email: jicc-mnl@embjapan.ph

TRAVEL DIRECTORY Korea 10th floor, The Pacific Star Bldg., Makati Ave. Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 811-6139 to 44 Fax: (+63) 2 811-6148

Singapore 505 Rizal Drive,1634 Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. Phone: (+63) 2 856-9922 Fax: (+63) 2 856-9932

United States of America 1201 Roxas Blvd., Manila Phone: (+63) 2 528-6300 Fax: (+63) 2 522-4361 Web site: www.manila.usembassy.gov

Malaysia 10th and 11th floor, The World Centre Bldg., 330 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 864-0761 to 68 Fax: (+63) 2 864-0727 Email: malmanila@kln.gov.my

Spain 5th floor, ACT Tower, 135 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 818-5526 Fax: (+63) 2 810-2885 Emails: emb.manila@maec.es and con.manila@maec.es

Vietnam 670 Pablo Ocampo, Malate, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 525-2837, 521-6843 Fax: (+63) 2 526-0472 Web site: www.vietnamembassyphilippines.org Email: vnem@yahoo.com

Mexico 2157 Paraiso St., Dasmarinas Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 812-2211, 812-2212 Fax: (+63) 2 892-9824 Web Site: www.sre.gob.mx/filipinas Email: ebmexfil@info.com.ph

Sweden 16th floor, Equitable PCI Bank Tower II Bldg., Makati Ave. cor. Dela Costa Sts., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 811-7900 Fax: (+63) 2 815-3002 Web site: www.swedenabroad.com/ manila Email: ambassaden.manila@foreign. ministry.se

Netherlands 26th Floor Equitable PCI Bank Tower, 8751 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 786-6666 Fax: (+63 2) 786-6600 Web site: www.netherlandsembassy.ph Email: man@minbuza.nl New Zealand 23rd floor, BPI Center, Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 891-5358 to 67, 891-3272 to 75 Fax: (+63) 2 891-5357, 891-5353 Web site: www.nzembassy.com/ philippines Email: nzemmanila@globelines.com.ph Norway 21st floor, Petron Mega Plaza Bldg., 358 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 886-3245 to 49 Fax: (+63) 2 886-3244, 886.3384 Web site: www.norway.ph Email: emb.manila@msa.no Pakistan 6th Floor, Alexander House, 132 Amorsolo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 817-2772/6 Fax: (+63) 2 840-0229 Email: pakrepmanila@yahoo.com Russia 1245 Acacia Road, Dasmarinas Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 893-0190 Fax: (+63) 2 810-9614 Web site: www.rusmanila.mid.ru Email: RusEmb@i-manila.com.ph Saudi Arabia 389 Gen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 890-9735 Fax: (+63) 2 895-3493

Switzerland 24th floor, Equitable Bank Tower, 8751 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 757-9000 Fax: (+63) 2 757-3718 Web site: www.eda.admin.ch/manila Email: vertretung@man.rep.admin.ch Taiwan 41F, Tower 1, RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 887-6688 Fax: (+63) 2 887-7679, 8874661 Web site: www.taiwanoffice.org.ph/ Email: phl@mofa.gov.tw Thailand 107 Rada St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 815-4219/20 Fax: (+63) 2 815-4221 Email: thaimnl@pacific.net.ph Turkey 2268 Paraiso St., Dasmarinas Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 843-9705, 843-9707 Fax: (+63) 2 843-9702 Email: turkembm@info.com.ph United Arab Emirates 2nd floor, Renaissance Bldg., 215 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 817-3906 Fax: (+63) 2 818-3577 United Kingdom 15th to17th floors, L.V. Locsin Bldg., 6752 Ayala Ave. cor. Makati Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 580-8700 Fax: (+63) 2 819-7206 Web site: www.britishembassy.gov. uk/philippines Email: uk@info.com.ph

LOCAL AIRLINES AirPhil Express R-1 Hangar, APC Gate1, Andrews Avenue, Nichols Tel. 851-7601 Ground Floor, Charterhouse, 114 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-1459/2071; 24-Hour reservations number: 855-9000 Cebu Pacific Airlines Airline Operations Center Domestic Airport, Pasay City, Phone : (+63) 2 702-0888 (reservations), (+63) 2 290-5271 to 72 (customer service), (+63) 2 852-2328 local 263 (accounting), (+63) 2 290-5321 to 22 (cargo), (+63) 2 290-5241 to 42 (group desk) Email: customerservice@cebupacificair. com (customer service) cebrefacctg@cebupacificair.com (accounting) Web site: www.cebupacificair.com Island Aviation, Inc. A. Soriano Hangar, Andrews Avenue, Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines Phone: (63) 2 833-3855 Island Transvoyager, Inc. A Soriano Hangar, Lima Road cor Andrews Avenue, Domestic Airport, Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 821-5674, 851-5667 and 854-5674 Inter Island Airlines 74 Roxas Blvd., Paranaque City Phone: (+63) 2 852-8003 Philippine Airlines 2nd Floor, Power Realty Bldg., 1012 Arnaiz Ave., Makati City. Phone: (+63) 2 892-7339, 815-6481 South East Asian Airlines Domestic Passenger Terminal 1, Manila Domestic Airport, Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 849-0100 ZestAir Domestic Road cor. Andrews Avenue, Pasay City

Phone: (+63) 2 855-3333 FOREIGN AIRLINES Air India Phil Am Life Salcedo Building, 126 L.P. Leviste St., SalcedoVillage, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 815-2441/1280 Air New Zealand 10th Floor, Rufino Pacific Tower, Ayala Ave., Makati City. Phone: (+63) 2 884-8097 American Airlines Ground Floor, Olympia Somerset Condominium, Makati Avenue cor Sto. Tomas St., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 817-8645, 810-3229 Asiana Airlines 6th Floor, Salcedo Tower, Dela Costa Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-5681 to 88 British Airways 4th Floor, Filipino Bldg., Dela Rosa Street cor. Legaspi Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 817-0361, 815-6560 Cathay Pacific Airways Limited Room 446, 4th Floor, IPT Bldg., NAIA Terminal 1, Ninoy Aquino Ave., Paranaque City Phone: (+63) 2 832-2979 China Airlines Ground Flr., Manila Midtown Arcade, Malate, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 523-6319, 524-4950/4331 Emirates Pacific Star Building, Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 858-5350, 858-5300 Eva Airways 5438 Don Tim Building, South Superhighway, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 889-5701 to 04 Gulf Air 9th Floor, Ayala Life FGU Center 6811 Ayala Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 892-1313 Japan Airlines 2nd floor, Oledan Square, 6788 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 886-6877 to 78 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines 8th floor, Athenaeum Building, 160 LP Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 848-5817, 815-4790

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TRAVEL DIRECTORY Korean Air Ground floor, LPL Plaza Bldg., 124 LP Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 815-9262, 815-9264 Laoag International Airlines Terminal 1, Manila Domestic Airport, Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 551-9729, 551-4813 Lufthansa German Airlines Legaspi Parkview Condominiums, 134 Legaspi cor. Palanca Sts., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 810-5033 Malaysia Airlines 23rd Floor, LKG Tower Bldg., 6801 Ayala Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 887-3215, 843-6674 Northwest Airlines 8th floor, Athenaeum Building, 160 LP Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 819-7261 Qatar Airways Ground floor, 132-A The Colonnade Residences, Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 812-1888 Qantas Airways Limited 4th floor, Filipino Merchants Building, 135 Legaspi corner Dela Rosa Sts., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 812-4738 Royal Brunei Airlines Saville Building, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 897-3309, 895-3545 Singapore Airlines 33rd floor, LKG Tower, 6801 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 756-8899, 756-8888 Thai Airways International Country Space 1 Building, Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 812-4812 Tiger Airways 1000 Makati Ave. cor Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 884-1524 CAR RENTAL AND TAXI SERVICE Alamo Rent-A-Car 211 Quirino Avenue, Tambo, Parañaque City Phone: (+63) 2 551-4923/07 Avcar Rental Corp. 3674 Bautista cor Dayap Sts., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 687-2212

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Avis Philippines Manila Peninsula Hotel Shop #1, Ayala Wing Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 845-1844, 843-7140 Web site: www.avis.com.ph

893-2020 (24 hrs.)

Budget Rent-A-Car The Peninsula Hotel Manila Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 818-7363, 8162211/6682

Sunflower Transport Services 7 Santa Teresita St., Kapitolyo, Pasig City Phone: (+63) 2 631-3496

Carlines Rent-A-Car Services Tuscany Condominium, 6751 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 810-5421, 813-1975 to 76 Del’s Transport Services 1042 Vito Cruz St., Singalong, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 524-5187, 5258396/2696 Executive Transport and Cars Casa Blanca, 1447 M. Adriatico St., Ermita, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 523-5595 Filcar Transport Services 2nd Floor, Unit 2-A, Torre De Salcedo Bldg., 184 Salcedo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 894-1754, 817-8346 and 843-3530 Telefax: (+63) 2 893-1251 Web site: www.filcartransport.com Email: info@filcartransport.com Gemini Transport Services 43 B. Francisco St., New Saniega Phone: (+63) 2 811-6888 Grayline Philippines 7737-C, St. Paul Road, San Antonio Village, Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 890-3963 to 64 Hertz Rent-A-Car Unit 101, Sunset Tower, Makati Ave. cor. Durban St., Makati City Phone: (+63) 2 897-5161 NAIA Airport Terminal 1 Branch, Phone: (+63) 2 877-1406 Mobeline Charter Services 2449 Sequia St., Sta.Ana, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 890-2778 Nissan Rent-A-Car 2317 Aurora Blvd., Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 854-7099 Fax: (+63) 2 852-6599 Web site: www.nissanrentacar.com Email: lgq-sales@nissanrentacar.com Orix Auto Leasing Phil. Corp. 148 Yakal St., San Antonio Village, Makati City. Phone: (+63) 2 893-2523 to 27, 893-3233 and

EXPERIENCE Travel and Living Volume 7 Number 1, 2011

Sandeco Rent-A-Car 5446-48 South Superhighway Phone: (+63) 2 844-7954/7960/ 4478 to 79

Tigers on the Run 3rd Floor, Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Mkti. City Phone: (+63) 2 899-98-28/08 BUS COMPANIES Aladdin Transit Cayco St., Sampaloc, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 781-9168 BLTB 2nd Avenue, Caloocan City Phone: (+63) 2 363-4478, 365-7886 Baliwag Transit 2nd Avenue cor. Rizal Avenue, Caloocan City Phone: (+63) 2 364-7002, 364-0860, 364-0778 and 363-4331 Dagupan Bus Line New York St. cor. Edsa, Cubao, Quezon City Phone: (+63) 2 727-2330 or 2287 Dangwa Tranco 832 Aurora Blvd. cor. Driod St., Cubao, Quezon City Phone: (+63) 2 410-1991 Executive Carriers and Services, Inc. 153 Quirino Ave., Baclaran, Paranaque City Phone: (+63) 2 851-8701, 912-4289 Five Star Bus Company 2220 Aurora Blvd., Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 853-4772 Genesis Transport Services Inc. 101-A Giselle Park Plaza, Edsa Rotonda cor. H. Taft Avenue, Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 733- 8622 704 Edsa cor. New York St., Cubao, Quezon City Phone: (+63) 2 709-0803, 421-1413 JAC Liner #2 Mapagmahal St. Brgy. Pinyahan, Kamias Road, Quezon City Phone: (+63) 2 927-4745/6139, 928-6140 Jam Transit Timog St. corner Edsa

Quezon City Phone: (+63) 2 724-4897 Partas Transportation Co., Inc. 816 Aurora Blvd., Quezon City Phone: (+63) 2 725-1740, 725-1756 and 724-9820 Philippine Rabbit Oroquieta St., Sta.Cruz, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 734-9836 and 489-0328 Philtranco Edsa, Apelo Cruz St., Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 851-8077 to 79 (Pasay) and 722-7567 (Cubao) RRCG Transport Km. 18, Ortigas Avenue Extension, Cainta, Rizal Phone: (+63) 2 656-7503 Saulog Transit 1377 Quirino Avenue, Paranaque City Phone: (+63) 2 825-2926 to 30, 826-1285 Tritran CMC Building, Andrews Avenue corner Aurora Blvd., Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 851-7971 Victory Liner 713 Rizal Ave. Ext., Caloocan City Phone: (+63) 2 361-1506 651 EDSA, Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 833-5019 to 20 Espana Cor. Galecia St. Sampaloc, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 741-1436 Edsa near Aurora Blvd., Cubao Phone: (+63) 2 727-4688 SHIPS and FERRIES WG & A (Superferry) 12th floor, Times Plaza Building, UN Ave. cor. Taft Ave., Ermita, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 528-7979, 528-7171 Web site: www.SuperFerry.com.ph Email: customerinteraction@SuperFerry.com.ph Mt. Samat Ferry Express CCP Bay Terminal, CCP Complex, Pasay City Phone: (+63) 2 551-5290 to 91 Negros Navigation Pier II, North Harbor, Tondo, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 243-5231, 244-0408 Web site: www.negrosnavigation.ph Email: gcabalo@negrosnavigation.ph Sulpicio Lines Manila Terminal Office Pier 12, North Harbor Tondo, Manila Phone: (+63) 2 245-0616 to 30 Fax: (+63) 2 243-4570, 243-4571 Web site: www.sulpiciolines.com

TRAVEL CALENDAR

June - September

PINANGAT FESTIVAL June 1-20 | Camalig, Albay It highlights the town’s famous dish. PILI FESTIVAL June 1-30 | Sorsogon, Sorsogon Pili is an indigenous crop of the Bicol region, particularly Sorsogon. This festival showcases the pili, emphasizing its importance and increasing the awareness of the public on its various uses. BILANG-BILANG ABAYAN FESTIVAL June 1 | Balangay Taft, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte It is a showcase of religious heritage of the Surigaonons in honor of Virgen de la Paz Y Buen Viaje. ABANG FESTIVAL June 4 | Soyung, Echague, Isabela It features a parade of boats with the image of Our Lady of the Visitation across the Pinacanauan River in the barangay of Soyung, Echague. VIRAY FESTIVAL June 8 | Sta. Ana, Cagayan It commemorates the viray, or boat, which is considered important in the history of the town whose main source of livelihood is fishing and eco-tourism. MANOGLAYA FESTIVAL June 9-12 | San Antonio, Northern Samar It is a cultural-tourism festival with cultural performances, street dancing, beauty search and exhibit. CAMOTES CASSAVA FESTIVAL June 10- 11 | Tudela, Camotes Island It is a celebration of bountiful harvest. Farmers display their various cassava-based products

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and share their technical experiences in producing and processing cassava products. GINUBAT FESTIVAL June 11-12 | Gubat, Sorsogon The festival highlights the meaning of the town’s name. KANSILAY FESTIVAL June 12 | Silay City The festival focuses on Kansilay street dance INDEPENDENCE DAY June 12 | Cavite, Manila and other historical sites (nationwide) It features re-enactment of the historic proclamation of the Philippine independence done at the mansion of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo in Kawit, Cavite.

PASALAMAT DE TAYASAN June 13 | Tayasan, Negros Oriental It is a thanksgiving festival in honor of its patron saint, St. Anthony de Padua.

GINNAMULUAN FIESTA June 20-21 | Cabarroguis, Quirino It is the town fiesta of Cabarroguis featuring street dancing and cooperativism.

PANGAPOG FESTIVAL June 13-18 | Santa Maria, Davao del Sur Pangapog is a Tagacaolo term meaning “good harvest.” This is a one week thanksgiving festival.

OYANGE KAUGMAN FESTIVAL June 20-29 | Polangui, Albay The festival’s name is derived from a tree which is abundant in the area.

BATTLE OF BESANG PASS June 14 | Cervantes, Ilocos Sur It commemorates the victory of Filipino guerillas in northern Luzon which led to the surrender of Gen. Yamashita and the end of the Japanese occupation in the Philippines. DORONG FESTIVAL June 14-19 | Kapatagan, Digos City This is a thanksgiving feast for the Bagobos. This week-long celebration features different activities such as mountain biking, motocross and mountain climbing and cleanup. There are displays of fruits and vegetables as well as a showcase of indigenous culture. NALIYAGAN FESTIVAL June 15-17 | Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur It celebrates the foundation of Agusan del Sur.

KALIGUAN FLUVIAL FESTIVAL June 21-25 | Cagwait, Surigao del Sur It honors St. John the Baptist, highlighted by the Search for Perlas ng Kaliguan beauty pageant, beach dancing and other beach activities. PIAT SAMBALI FESTIVAL June 23- July 2 | Piat, Cagayan It is a religious and cultural revival event in commemoration of the Christianization of the Itawes region of Cagayan. CALUMPIT LIBAD FESTIVAL June 23-24 | Calumpit, Bulacan It honors the town’s patron saint, St. John the Baptist, held at the Pampanga River. HIL-O-HANAY FESTIVAL June 23-24 | Sigma, Capiz The festival highlights the Sigmahanon’s traditional way of life.

PINEAPPLE/PINYASAN FESTIVAL June 15-24 | Daet, Camarines Norte This festival features the sweet, succulent variety of pineapple, the Formosa, a known produce of the town.

tist, one of the patrons of Balayan, Batangas, marked by throwing of water on other people. It is highlighted by a parade of whole roast pigs, many dressed up, which is a unique tradition of the town. MUDPACK FESTIVAL June 25-26 | Murcia, Negros Occidental The festival is said to be a symbolic celebration of man’s return to primitive time when he is closer to nature. PALU-PALO FESTIVAL June 26 | Basco, Batanes It is grand celebration featuring a cultural presentation of the different municipalities of Batanes. TAEPHAG FESTIVAL June 27 | Tagbina, Sutigao del Sur It highlights a common Manobo ritual used for opening a kaingin, rice planting, harvesting and other activities. SIRONG-SIRONG FESTIVAL June 28- 29 | Cagdianao, Surigao del Norte It is in honor of Saints Peter and Paul. APUNG IRU FLUVIAL FESTIVAL June 28-30 | Apalit, Pampanga It features a procession where the image of St. Peter is brought down from Capalangan to Calumpit River where a colorfully decorated mini pagoda awaits the image. KURADANG FESTIVAL June 28-29 | Sison, Surigao del Norte It is the feast day of Saints Peter and Paul celebrated through street dancing, agro-industrial fair and beauty contest.

DAMSU CULTURAL FESTIVAL June 16 | Kiblawan, Davao del Sur Damsu is a B’laan word which means “thanksgiving for good harvest for the Anito.” KAIMONAN FESTIVAL June 17 | Maco, Compostela Valley This is a Mansaka term for “thanksgiving” for the blessings and bountiful harvest. It is celebrated every June 17 up to the last Saturday of the month in accordance with the practices of the ethnic group. SULAY-BASYA FESTIVAL June 18-24 | Sara, Iloilo The festival honors St. John the Baptist, the patron saint of the municipality. PANDAYAN FESTIVAL June 18 | Badiangan, Iloilo The festival showcases the ingenuity, craftsmanship, artistry, tradition and culture of the Badianganons

TAONG-PUTIK FESTIVAL June 24 | Aliaga, Nueva Ecija It originated from a unique practice of the devotees of Saint John the Baptist in Bibiclat, Aliaga, Nueva Ecija. Participants’ bodies are completely covered with mud and adorned with vines, banana leaves or dried coconut leaves. The ritual starts at dawn on June 24. They ask for alms and candles from the people and offer them at the church during the special mass.

LINGGANAY FESTIVAL June 19 | Alang-alang, Leyte The festival features a street pageant depicting the legendary story of the bells.

FEAST OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST and PARADA NG LECHON June 24 | Balayan, Batangas This is the feast day of Saint John the Bap-

PINTADOS KASADYAAN FESTIVAL June 28- 29 | Tacloban City, Leyte The festival features body-painting, commemorating the courageous ancient warriors called Pintados. BALYUAN June 29 | Tacloban City, Leyte It highlights the ceremonial exchange of imag-

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es of the Holy Child between Leyte and Samar.

ALEGRIA DE ISABELA July 8 | Isabela City A festival based on a legend that tells how the early townsfolk survived a raging storm when St. Isabela was seen blocking a giant wave. It is celebrated with a regatta, procession of the image and merrymaking beside the cathedral

PALAWOD FESTIVAL June 29 | Bantayan, Bantayan Island, Cebu The festival highlights the fishermen. FEAST OF OUR LADY OF GUIBANG July 1- 2 | Gamu, Isabela It is the annual feast day of the miraculous Our Lady of Guibang. FESTIVAL OF OUR LADY OF PIAT July 1- 2 | Piat, Cagayan This is highlighted by the procession of the Marian image venerated for centuries. BANANA FESTIVAL July 1-10 | Tagum, Davao del Norte It has street dancing and agri-trade fair to highlight Davao del Norte as “banana country.” ARAW NG PASIG July 2 | Pasig City A grand celebration of Pasig, highlighted by different activities such as the Mutya ng Pasig pageant, dancing, Outstanding Pasiguenos Night, arts and literary competitions, Palarong Pinoy and Kusina Pasigueno, among others.

June - September

HUDYAKA FESTIVAL July 12 | Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental It features a street dancing competition depicting the historical events of how Laguindingan become one of the municipalities of Misamis Oriental

SUBILAN FESTIVAL July 23 | Batangas City This is an annual celebration in which a ritual dance is done to pay homage to the Holy Cross as thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest.

T’NALAK FESTIVAL July 16-19 | Koronadal City, South Cotabato This annual celebration in South Cotabato demonstrates the importance and significance of the t’nalak cloth as the cultural image of South Cotabato.

SAULOG DE TANJAY July 24 | Tanjay, Negros Oriental This celebration is highlighted by a street dancing with mock battles between Moros and Christians followed by reconciliation through the intercession of the patron Santiago.

PAHINUNGOD FESTIVAL July 16 | Carrascal, Surigao del Sur This includes a Mardi Gras performed around the streets of Carrascal in honor of their patroness, Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN FRIENDSHIP DAY July 4 | Baguio City This celebrates the friendship between Filipinos and Americans.

SANDUGO FESTIVAL July | Tagbilaran City, Bohol Bohol’s annual commemoration of the Blood compact (mardi gras parade) between Rajah Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. The street dancing and Mardi Gras highlight the festivities, depicting the theme of “friendship among equals and international diplomacy expressed in the participating group’s traditional culture.” BINUHAT FESTIVAL July 17-23 | Tagum City This is an advocacy celebration recognizing the rights and social contributions of the gay community, fostering acceptance of their gender in the society.

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LIBON PAROY FESTIVAL July 22-25 | Libon, Albay Katalingkasan, which means freedom and rebirth, is held in conjunction with the Libon town fiesta and the feast of its patron saint, St. James the Greater. The festival aims to revive the rich cultural heritage of the town and at the same time promote local tourism.

SUBAYAN KEG SUBANON FESTIVAL July 15-16 | Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental This is a week-long celebration with trade fair and street dancing, showcasing the Subanon cultural heritage

SAGAYAN FESTIVAL July 3 | Tubod, Lanao del Norte Also Araw ng Lanao del Norte, this festival showcases the rich Maranao culture particularly the war dance and the fan dance.

BANIG FESTIVAL July 5 | Badian, Cebu The festival showcases the Badianganon culture, tradition, delicacies and local products especially its famous mats.

KALIGA FESTIVAL July 22 | Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental There is street dancing, trade fair and cultural presentations in observance of the city’s charter day.

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KINABAYO FESTIVAL July 24-25 | Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte This features a reenactment of the SpanishMoorish wars particularly the Battle of Cova-

donga.

the Christianization of the early Cantilanons. KADAYAWAN SA DABAW August 16-22 | Davao City A celebration of thanksgiving, this cultural festival’s highlights include street dancing, floral float parade, cultural shows and exhibits, among others.

KADAGATAN FESTIVAL July 25 | Cortes, Surigao del Sur It is a yearly thanksgiving of Cortesanons done through street dancing. Costumes and props of dancers symbolize marine life. PAKAPYA-AGTIKE July 25-27 | Socorro, Mindoro Oriental This festivity features cultural shows, parade of floats and a street dancing on the last day, showcasing its agricultural bounty, performed by schools, barangays and communities. The festival is a thanksgiving offering to its patron, the Holy Family. STA. ANANG BANAK TAGUIG RIVER FESTIVAL July 26 | Taguig City This is highlighted by a fluvial parade in honor of the patroness St. Anne. The thrills and excitement of the fishers are replicated through the pasubo in which the fluvial parade participants in colorful boats and spectators by the riverbanks toss goodies, fruits and native delicacies to each other. ABAYAN FESTIVAL July 31 | Butuan City A day-long festivity features barato race, a fluvial procession and parlor games in honor of St. Anne, patroness of Agusan River. BUGANIHAN FESTIVAL August 1 | Compostela, Compostela Valley This is a tribute to Buganis (the Mandaya warriors) as early settlers of Compostela. Buganihan reflects the bravery and unity that characterize Compostela today. PANGAPOG FESTIVAL August 1-7 | Samal Island It is a thanksgiving festival for a bountiful harvest featuring parade and cultural presentations, among others. PALAGSING FESTIVAL August 2 | Butuan City Once, it featured a competition for the longest and the best-tasting palagsing.

BUYOGAN FESTIVAL August 19 | Abuyog, Leyte Dancers depict the origin of the town’s name— buyog or bees.

PALU-PALO FESTIVAL August 4-5 | Basco, Batanes It features cultural presentations from the different municipalities of Batanes. PADAGYAW FESTIVAL August 4-5 | Dumarao, Capiz It is a cultural and fiesta celebration. CORDOVA DINAGAT FESTIVAL August 5 | Cordova, Cebu The celebration honors fishing. Dinagat means anything pertaining to the sea. It showcases Cordova’s cultural heritage, traditional rituals and dances. MERCEDES FISHTIVAL August 6-11 | Mercedes, Camarines Norte It is a thanksgiving for the blessings and bounty of the sea. KALIBONGAN FESTIVAL August 14 | Kidapawan City, North Cotabato Kalibongan is a Manobo term for a grand festival. The Manobos, Bagobos and other highland groups from different parts of the province go down to Kidapawan to show off their traditions and heritage. LUBI-LUBI FESTIVAL August 15 | Calubian, Leyte The coconut tree is in the spotlight in this festival. PAVVU RULUN FESTIVAL and PADDA NA LIMA August 15- 17 | Tuguegarao, Cagayan The celebration includes sports and cultural presentations, trade fair, beauty pageant and street dancing. CORON FESTIVAL August 15 -17 | Tiwi, Albay The festival’s main feature is the pottery industry. SIRONG FESTIVAL August 15 | Cantilan, Surigao del Sur It features a war dance between Muslims and Christians, reflecting

KALUBIHAN FESTIVAL August 21-28 | Jordan, Guimaras The coconut is highlighted here. TSINELAS FESTIVAL August 25 | Gapan, Nueva Ecija This marks the anniversary of the town’s cityhood. It is also aimed at bolstering the city’s claim of being the Slippers Capital. KAGAY-AN FESTIVAL August 26-28 | Cagayan de Oro City It is a celebration in honor of its patron, Saint Augustine, with a Mardi Gras-type of street dancing participated in by contingents from schools and civic organizations. JINAWA FESTIVAL August 27-28 | Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte It has a local rendition of the classic ChristianMoro conflict interpreted through songs and dances. PALADONG FESTIVAL August 28 | Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur It features the ritual of ladong conducted by a landongan. KARIYAWAN FESTIVAL August 28-September 4 | Monkayo, Compostela Valley This is in thanksgiving for Monkayo’s rich agricultural harvest and abundant mineral resources. It features street dancing depicting its cultural heritage and trade fairs. TURUMBA August 30 | Teresa, Rizal This is done in dedication to Saint Rose of Lima, the patron saint of Teresa. SARAKIKI-HADANG FESTIVAL September 1-8 | Calbayog City, Western Samar Sarakiki is a local term referring to premeditated or frenzied movements meant to lure or to attract. By its pre-colonial denotation, it means to praise, extol or eulogize spirits of gods. The word does not only ascribe to the ritual or hadang as an activity to gratify the gods, but as the offering or the sacrifice. HINIRUGYAW FESTIVAL September 1-10 | Cabatuan, Iloilo It features street dancing, serving as the opening salvo of the ten-day celebration of the feast

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June - September

SINAWUG FESTIVAL September 19 |Asuncion, Davao del Norte This is an annual thanksgiving event of the lumads, done in the river, which was their only means of transporting their goods and a source of livelihood and drinking water.

of San Nicolas de Tolentino. DARAGANG MAGAYON September 1-8 | Daraga, Albay It honors the town’s patron saint, Our Lady of the Gate. It also aims to showcase the culture of Daragueños with various colorful activities. TUNA FESTIVAL SA GENSAN September 3-5 | General Santos City It celebrates the city’s main product. SINAB’BADAN TRIBAL FESTIVAL September 5-6 | Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur It is a festival of oneness among the different tribes of the municipality, showcasing indigenous art, music and dances.

SIPONG FESTIVAL September 7 | Bais City, Negros Oriental It is a Mardi Gras-style festival in which different barangays, and local and national offices participate in a choreographed street dancing. PADUL-ONG September 7 | Borongan, Eastern Samar The pageant tells how the Lady of Nativity became the patroness of Borongan. LINGGO NG BULAKAN September 8 -15 | Malolos, Bulacan It is a one week celebration featuring the history of Bulacan and exhibits of Bulacan products, among others. BANOK-BANOK MARADJAO KARADJAO FESTIVAL September 9 | Surigao City, Surigao del Norte It is marked by a street dancing festivity featuring the ethnic Mamanwa dance. MINULUAN FESTIVAL September 10 | Talisay City, Negros Occidental It is a celebration honoring the creator and the Minuluan group. MEGAYON FESTIVAL September 11-16 | Zamboanga del Sur It is a thanksgiving festival of the Subanens of Zamboanga del Sur showcasing native songs, dances and food. Megayon in Subanen means “unity and solidarity.” It is also celebrated as Araw ng Zamboanga del Sur. PENAFRANCIA FESTIVAL September 17 | Naga City, Camarines Sur It is a religious festival honoring Our Lady of Peñafrancia, patroness of the Bicol Region.

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DUMALONDONG FESTIVAL September 23 | Salug, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur It is a yearly convergence of all tribal leaders in the province highlighted by the performance of rituals by priests. ANIHAN FESTIVAL September 25-30 | Dueñas, Iloilo The celebration is one way of giving thanks for a good harvest. BANIGAN-KAWAYAN FESTIVAL September 28 | Basey, Samar Basey’s favorite local product is highlighted in this wacky tribute to the native bamboo mat.

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