EXPLORE THE WORLD! GO TRAVEL!

DepEd joins campaign for Puerto Princesa Underground River

2011-06-27T16:01:00.000+08:00

Education Secretary Armin Luistro has echoed the national call to support the campaign to recognize the Puerto Princesa Underground River one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

Luistro has issued Memorandum No. 137, series 2011, to call on the entire department to work towards awareness, appreciation,preservation and promotion of our own Puerto Princesa Underground River to be included in the New Seven Wonders of Nature (N7WN) through various activities and other initiatives

“As a nation, what we lack in material wealth, we compensate with the richness of our natural resources, hence, we should take advantage of this by putting our country on top of the world,” said Luistro.

The Department of Education, known as the largest bureaucracy in Philippine government with more than 500,000 teaching and non-teaching personnel catering to around 22.05 million kindergarten, elementary and secondary students in its 55,000 public schools nationwide will be a major component of the organized Puerto Princesa Underground River – N7WN (PPUR-N7WN) Campaign Task Force.

The Task Force is composed of the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) as the chairperson and the Secretary of Tourism as the vice-chairperson. Joining DepEd as members will be heads of various government agencies such as the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department ofLabor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), and Philippine Information Agency (PIA).

Mayor Edward Hagedorn of Puerto Princesa, Palawan and five private sector representatives to be appointed by the Chairperson upon the recommendation of Mayor Hagedorn are also members of the task
force.

“Pushing for the inclusion of the Puerto Princesa Underground River to be proclaimed as one of the New Wonders of Nature should be a binding force for all of us, Filipinos. Just like education, this campaign should not just be the sole responsibility of the government. If people can stay for long hours updating their status in the social networking sites and can spend money for mobile texting, I don’t think it will be too much for them to vote via text or on-line to ensure our chances of making it to the top 7,” added Luistro.

Further, Luistro calls upon all teachers, school administrators and personnel, students, parents, and education stakeholders to take time to vote for the Puerto Princesa Underground River. The creation of the task force was prompted after President Benigno S. Aquino III issued Proclamation No. 182, “Declaring A National and International Promotion Campaign for the Puerto Princesa Underground River as One of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

The Proclamation intends to awaken the sense of patriotism and national pride of the 30M Filipino internet users and 77M Filipino mobile subscribers by encouraging them to support the campaign and ensure that the PPUR will make it among the New 7 Wonders of Nature on November 2011.

The PPUR-N7WN Campaign Task Force shall formulate and undertake an aggressive voting campaign at the national level, focusing on students and local government units (LGUs), and at the international level, especially among overseas Filipinos and nationals of other countries.

The 8.2kilometer-long Puerto Princesa Underground River, formed 30 million years ago, is considered the longest underground river in the world, with unique and outstanding scientific, biological and geological features that merited its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in December 1999 and as a National Geographic Monument in December 2003.

From an initial list of over 400 locations around the world, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is the lone finalist from the Philippines and now counts among the top 14 of the 28 Official Finalist Candidates, selected by a panel of international experts from a list of 77 contenders via the first round of global voting from 2007 to 2010. Based on the information generated from the N7WN website, Puerto Princesa Underground River is already among the Top 5 in the search for the N7WN as of May 26, 2011.

To vote, text PPUR and send to 2861or log on to www.new7wonders.com and register to choose Puerto Princesa Underground River among your choice of new seven wonders.

WWF Links Up With National Convergence Initiative

2011-06-17T16:31:00.000+08:00

With 50 years of global experience in crafting and implementing a proven range of conservation solutions, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-Philippines) has committed its full support and expertise for the government’s National Convergence Initiative (NCI) – an ambitious drive to synergize efforts of the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in the push towards a more sustainable economy, in a climate-defined future.

Top-level representatives of the three national government agencies,the Governor and Vice-Governor, plus two Quezon congressmen converged at a Social Center in Infanta, Quezon on 30 May to launch the newest phase of the NCI, which includes partnerships with both WWF-Philippines and Gawad Kalinga.

“Today’s signing represents a step closer to an ecosystems-based approach to natural resource management for a more sustainable economy. It also brings us closer to more pragmatic climate adaptation schemes,” explains WWF-Philippines Vice-Chair and CEO Jose Ma. Lorenzo Tan.

The partnership between WWF-Philippines and the NCI aims to both develop and showcase working convergence models – especially at local levels – for the development of sustainable economies. The alliance offers current WWF project sites as models for sustainable fisheries and agriculture, watershed management, the adoption of renewable energy (RE) technologies and climate adaptation schemes.

“The long-term goals of attaining food security, improved quality of life and sustainable development are wholly interrelated and interdependent,” explains Tan.

“The achievement of these goals requires a confluence of development efforts across different sectors, planning for a climate-defined future and collaboration among government agencies, local government units, non-government organizations and other stakeholders.

Convergence is the natural progression of single-department or single-site initiatives. By combining our efforts, we also multiply the results.”

WWF is the world’s largest conservation organization and spearheads practical solutions to help the country adapt to climate change, secure food sources to alleviate poverty, conserve local ecosystems to reap natural benefits, empower communities to live low-impact lives, help corporations develop equitable, low-impact supply chains and promote renewable sources of clean energy. It celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2011.

Arya Residences Cut Energy Use by 14% for Earth Hour

2011-06-10T16:55:00.000+08:00

Driven by the common goal of attaining ecological sustainability, green developer ArthaLand recently partnered with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-Philippines).The project, Arya Residences, being a LEED registered (aiming for a Gold certification) development, has in place various measures and facilities to allow its households to save as much as 14% in energy consumption and as much as 40% in potable water usage. With proper maintenance and the conscientious use of these resources, these savings may be enjoyed for over a year.

“Going green makes perfect business sense, since energy and water-efficiency *always* translates into savings. Though redesigning current systems and practices takes time, the resources saved will be good not only for residents – but in minimizing our contribution to global emissions to retard climate change,” says ArthaLand VP for Projects and Business Development Kate A. Ilagan.*

**“Sustainability is in the core philosophy of the company, not just a by the way,” adds ArthaLand President and CEO Angie de Villa-Lacson.

The pledge is part of Earth Hour’s ‘60+ Program’ – a year-long campaign to promote energy efficiency, renewable energy usage and climate adaptation strategies for individuals, groups and corporations. The campaign in turn, was crafted to ensure that the energy-saving message of Earth Hour translates into actions which last for more than 60 minutes.

Corporations can become* 60+ Program Champions* by pledging to reduce their energy and resource consumption by at least 10% via promoting energy-efficient practices and equipment. Current program champions include the Yuchengco Group of Companies, Coca-Cola under its *Live
Positively*platform, Honda Cars Philippines and McDonald’s. Already,more corporations
are ready to join in with their own commitments.

“Though now the world’s most popular annual environmental movement, Earth Hour is but 60 minutes long. If we really want lasting and effective results, then we must inculcate its message – which is to reduce our consumption of power, water and other critical resources – into our lives.

ArthaLand’s decision to step up to the climate challenge shows that the private sector is more than willing and more than capable of fighting climate change. It’s a natural choice,” concludes WWF-Philippines Climate Change Director and ‘60+ Project’ Head Atty. Gia Ibay.

Corporations interested in committing to the ‘60+ Program’ can contact either Kim Ang or Pat Co at kkp@wwf.org.ph.

Affordable Elegance

2011-06-08T12:10:00.000+08:00

Bugo Bridge (San Remigio, Antique)

2011-06-04T15:25:00.001+08:00

The recently concluded Bugo Bridge inauguration in San Remigio, Antique, proved to be a timely blessing for many residents of the calamity-prone region. Constructed by Waagner-Biro Philippines Inc. (WBPI), the local subsidiary of Austria-based corporation Waagner-Biro Stahlbau AG, in partnership with the Austrian government and DPWH, the unveiling of the 430-linear meter bridge attracted curious San Remigio denizens in droves, as well as passers-by from neighboring towns.

San Remigio mayor Hon. Glenn Cabigunda expressed his gratitude for the completion of the project. “On behalf of the San Remigionhons, I would like to thank Antique Governor Javier, his son Congressman Paolo Javier and the Austrian Embassy for their part in the realization of the new Bugo Bridge,” he said. “The bridge can boost the economy of the town. People in the mountain barangays will no longer worry traversing high waters along Sibalom River during rainy season just to get to the town to transport their harvests.”

Governor Javier added, “I am happy that WBPI was able to finish this project ahead of schedule. They finished it on just one year and six months – one month ahead of schedule. This new bridge will not just provide the farmers easy access to the market but will also open up other opportunities with the presence of a number of waterfalls in the area that we could develop into tourism destinations.”

Local townspeople also reveled in the opening of the new bridge. One ecstatic family from San Remigio who witnessed the inauguration couldn’t contain their excitement after the official ribbon-cutting ceremony. “Ga pasalamat gid kami sang bag-o nga taytay kay dako gid ang bulig sini sa amon pangabuhi,” (We are thankful for this new bridge because our livelihood depends on it) said the family’s matriarch. “Tungod sang taytay, mas may tiempo na kami sa amon nga mga pamilya.” (We now have more time to spend with our family).

Construction of the bridge started on October 1, 2009, and was completed last March 31, 2011 – one month ahead of schedule. The Bugo Bridge is one of 18 bridges that qualified for full turnkey construction by the Supply and Services Contract of Austrian Bridges Consortium WB + MCE, under the DPWH Construction Acceleration Project for Calamity Stricken Areas. WBPI is responsible for the overall management and implementation of the project.

The DPWH Construction Acceleration Project for Calamity Stricken Areas project started on July 7, 2008 and is scheduled to be completed on July 6, 2011. It aims to immediately replace disaster stricken bridges with structurally sound permanent steel bridges in order to sustain basic social industrial and agricultural activities, and to provide safe and faster movement of goods.

The Bugo Bridge is a milestone for WBPI as it commemorates its 15th year of operations in the country, playing a major role in projects that will serve to improve the lives of many Filipinos in the calamity-stricken area. Other remarkable bridges constructed by DPWH using the Austrian modular steel bridging materials are: 1) 900 linear meter Calaba Bridge in Bangued, Abra; 2) 350 linear meter Jones Bridge in Jones, Isabela and 3) the 140 linear meter Estrella-Pantaleon Bridge connecting the cities of Makati and Mandaluyong in Metro Manila.

The Bugo Bridge is the latest addition to the impressive resume of Waagner-Biro’s 15-year history in the country. In 1999, Waagner-Biro Stahlbau AG signed the first contract with the Philippine government “The President’s Bridge Program Phase II – Austrian Assisted” represented by the Department of the Interior and Local Government for the supply, engineering and related services covering 306 bridges with a total length of 12,250 linear meters. This first contract was implemented within a period of 57 months in close coordination with the DILG and the Local Government Units.

In 2001, DPWH Austrian Bridges Consortium WB + MCE, signed another contract with the Philippine government represented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) called “DPWH Bridge Construction Replacement Project – Austrian Assisted”.
This contract comprises the supply of 112 modular steel bridges including the detailed engineering of substructures and auxiliary services for a total length of 7,825 linear meters. The implementation of this project covering the national secondary road network in the Philippines took 39 months and was completed by end of July 2005.

All projects consisting of 436 bridges and a total of 21,555 linear meters were financed by Austrian export loans under the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) framework on a bilateral basis.

After so many years of presence and the successful implementation of three big bridge projects, the Austrian modular steel bridges have become well known and a trademark in the Philippines in terms of reliable and high quality steel bridge construction.

Internationally, Waagner-Biro consists of the Waagner-Biro Stahlbau AG Group with its two divisions of steel and glass construction and bridge construction; Waagner-Biro Austria Stage Systems – the most important international supplier of stage equipment; Waagner-Biro Gulf – an infrastructure specialist; and finally the British subsidiary Qualter, Hall & Co Ltd., working in the fields of mechanical engineering, bridge construction and contract manufacturing.

The bridge construction division of the Waagner-Biro Stahlbau AG Group also operates internationally in the fields of mechanical and steel construction. Waagner-Biro is a full-range supplier in the steel bridge construction area and in system bridges. The success of the Waagner-Biro Group is based on top level engineering know-how and more than 150 years experience in steel construction and mechanical engineering.
For more information:
www.waagner-biro.at

Bayview Park Hotel

2011-05-25T14:49:00.000+08:00

This Manila hotel overlooks Manila Bay and is about 1 block from Rizal Park and the U.S. Embassy. The Baywalk is 1 km (0.6 mi) from the hotel. The huge SM Mall of Asia is 6.5 km (4 mi) away.

Hotel Features.

Bayview Park Hotel Manila features a rooftop outdoor pool, a fitness center, a business center, and an Internet mini-café. Reflexology andmassage services are available. Open all day, the lobby coffee shop serves a breakfast buffet and also offers à la carte menus.Guestrooms.

Guestrooms and suites include cable/satellite TV, minibars, coffee/tea makers, and two complimentary bottles of mineral water. Newspapersare also complimentary. Air conditioning/heating is individually controlled. Bathrooms come with hair dryers, showers, and complimentary toiletries.

For business travellers the extensive Business Centre offers guests all the necessary modern day facilities, to ensure that the Bayview Park Hotel Manila is not purely your hotel but also your helpful assistant in business, as and when you require.

Bayview Park Hotel is along Manila’s Roxas Boulevard fronting the U.S. Embassy with the full view of Manila Bay, easily accessible from Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the PICC, CCP, and World Trade Center. Walking distance to airline and travel offices, malls, galleries and entertainment centers

Aiming to win loyalty, confidence and trust among the Bayview family and its guests, the hotel keeps on developing its workforce and maintaining a highly motivated team to deliver the promise of guest satisfaction and exceed their expectations.

Spring is In

2011-05-24T22:26:00.000+08:00

The spring season is cheerful and colorful, budding and blossoming with new life. It is a beautiful season that captivates the senses.

Shrimps

2011-05-21T22:00:00.000+08:00

My dad bought this from the market at 200 per kilo.. Definitely cheap!! I love Dipolog!!

GUAM'S UNDERWATER SURPRISE

2011-05-18T00:28:00.000+08:00

If you're a diving enthusiast, you have to experience Guam's majestic dive sites - magnificent waters with ship wrecks 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 red-tooth triggerfish, titan triggerfish, crocodile needlefish and various butterfly fish will meet you here to 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 butterflyfish 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, hatchetfish, 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 ship wrecks 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 super structure 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, butterflyfish 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 U.S. 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.

Day 109: Hotel

2011-04-25T19:55:00.000+08:00

I love Dipolog City it has a facet of a sleepy town and yet it has a reputation and is fast becoming a relaxing place to go to in Zamboanga Del Norte. I love the Hotel Camilla!! Great hotel and great service!!

THE MAGNOLIA RESIDENCES A HOME YOU DESERVE

2011-04-22T23:23:00.001+08:00

Make new memories while holding on to old ones.

On the Location of the Old Magnolia Ice Cream House will rise THE MAGNOLIA RESIDENCES, an urban and residential community where you and your family can create new memories.
Robinsons Land builds on the heritage of the Magnolia Ice Cream House with a great vision: the creation of the Magnolia Town Square, the first master-planned, mixed-use high-rise residential and commercial complex in New Manila. The strategic location provides easy access to school and hospitals while its proximity to the LRT II lines makes travelling to different parts of the metropolis a breeze.

The Magnolia Town Square is a five-hectare development envisioned to be a self-contained community composed of a residential area and a mall. Now you can enjoy all the convenience of an urban lifestyle right where you live. Located within The Magnolia Town Square is The Magnolia Residences, a Two-hectare residential area to be comprised of our four condominium towers.
4 Residential Towers

(2) 38-Storeys

(2) 36 Storeys
1499 Units
Flat Design Concept
The Magnolia Town Square is the first master-planned, mixed-use high-rise residential and commercial complex in New Manila. Within it is the Magnolia Residences, a two-hectare residential area to be comprised of our four condominium towers. Aside from its easy access to school and hospitals, the project's proximity to the LRT II lines makes travelling to different parts of the metropolis a breeze.

Status: Pre Selling
Delivery Date: June 30, 2014
Location
The land located in New Manila, Quezon City is bounded by three major roads, the bustling Aurora Boulevard, and the tranquil and secure residential access roads of Doña Hemady Avenue and N. Domingo Street. RLC plans to build a mixed-use complex consisting of residential condominiums and commercial complex.
Once developed, residents of the gated residential community will enjoy the convenience of living beside its very own mall and the comforts of being near exclusive schools like Saint Paul University, De La Salle University, Xavier School and Immaculate Concepcion Academy. The property is also very near well-known hospitals like St.Luke’s Medical Center and Cardinal Santos Medical Center. And since the area is bounded by Aurora Boulevard, commuting to and from end points of Manila and Quezon City will be a breeze through the LRT Line 2 station.

The Magnolia Town Square is the first master-planned, mixed-use high-rise residential and commercial complex in New Manila. Within it is the Magnolia Residences, a two-hectare residential area to be comprised of our four condominium towers. Aside from its easy access to school and hospitals, the project's proximity to the LRT II lines makes travelling to different parts of the metropolis a breeze.
Tower B amenities
• Lap pool
• Sun Deck function area
• Zen Garden
• BBQ pit
• Jogging path
• Game Room
• Multi-purpose room

Amenities for future residential towers
Library, fitness center, badminton court, multi-purpose room, children’s pool, wading pool with Jacuzzi, tree house, open fitness deck, children’s indoor and outdoor playgrounds.
Building facilities
• Three (3) elevators (2 passenger elevators and 1 service elevator)
• Entrance Lobby with reception / security counter
• CCTV monitoring of selected common areas
• Automatic smoke detectors and fire alarm with sprinkler system at all common areas
• Annunciator panel with emergency speaker at all floors
• Standby power generator for common areas and selected outlets in the residential unit
• Fire Exits
• 4 Levels of Parking
Residential features:
. Entrance panel door with viewer
. Intercom per unit connected to the Security/Reception counter

Provisions for:
• Individual electric and water meter
• Cable TV line
• Telephone line
• Electrical Power provision for owner-supplied window-type air conditioners
• Electrical Load Provision of 40 amperes for Electric Range
• Electrical Load Provision of 20 amperes for Refrigerator
• Ventilation for kitchen and toilets
• Provision for multipoint water heater line (excluding water heater) for Toilet
• Automatic smoke detectors and fire alarm with sprinkler system in all units
• Utility Room with toilet for selected 2BR and 3BR units
• Balconies at selected 2BR and 3BR units
PRICES
1-Bedroom (36.10 SQM-38.10 SQM) - PHP 2.95M - 3.67M
2-Bedroom (74.00 SQM-90.00 SQM) - PHP 6.10M - 8.56M
3-Bedroom (114.60 SQM) - PHP 9.73M - 10.26M
Parking – PHP 875,000.00

PAYMENT TERMS (Zero Interest)
10% Spot Down
30% Payable in 60 Months
60% Retention Thru Bank Financing or Cash Payment

RF – Reservation Fee (Php 50,000)

Developer: Robinsons Land Corp. (The Property Developer of Choice)

Tips on Smart Property Investment
Real estate is and has always been the greatest wealth builder in history. That is a fact that has been proven many times, and is presented in a number of international bestsellers on the subject of investments. Unlike usual “paper” investments, real estate is not subject to fluctuations common to stock or bond markets. A property venture continues to provide a steady return on investment because it is a constant need, especially if the property is well-located and well-developed.
Real estate investments are considered the ultimate security and a solid base for increasing wealth because property values appreciate over time.
Location is one investment rule of thumb. With such a strategic access to major transportation lines.

Lleida: Circulo Verde's Fourth Tower

2011-04-20T21:11:00.000+08:00

Ortigas & Co., one of the country’s premiere developers, unveils another residential high-rise within their flagship development, Circulo Verde. Lleida, named after a Spanish Catalonian town, is the first tower in phase one to offer units, mostly studio and single bedroom types, which provide more viable investment options for young professionals, empty nesters, and independent individuals. Two- and three-bedroom units are also available for starting families.
Circulo Verde is a 12-hectare property located along Calle Industria in Bagumbayan, Quezon City. Prior to Lleida, OCLP launched three towers comprising phase one of the whole residential project: Majorca, Ibiza, and Seville, all of which have been received favorably by the market and are meeting construction and sales targets. To date, Ortigas has recorded P1.4B in revenues coming from Circulo Verde unit sales alone.

With a pricing range of 1.8M to 8.5M varying from 21 to 95 square meters per unit, the new tower features, 195 units in twenty-one residential floors, plus two floors for retail. It is being constructed to have a patch of green integrated into the structure called a Sky Garden—a bi-level lush green space occupying the 11th and 12th floor, that offers an excellent view of the city and amenity deck. This is deemed ideal as a lounge and entertainment area.

“Our Sky Garden serves multiple purposes apart from just aesthetics. People living in residential towers are almost always denied the pleasure of having a backyard. This is our way of a providing a green “breathing space,” for those who do not want to stay confined in the four corners of his unit,” says Joey Santos, General Manager of the Real Estate Division.

Residents of Lleida will have access to pools, function rooms, a children’s playground, and the vast open space of Circulo Verde. Phase one residents would also get to enjoy Verde Weekends, an interim development comprised of an open field, where people could enjoy various sports and leisure activities such as flag football, kite flying, and Frisbee. It also has its own set of attractions such as a motorized zip line and a remote control racetrack. Plans are underway for the construction of a baseball diamond and a soccer field. Ortigas has allotted a total of P100M for landscaping, providing residents an ideal space for leisure and living.
In four years, an estimated 2.7 hectares allocated for phase one would already have all five residential towers. Circulo Verde will have a total of 15 residential towers upon the completion of all phases, with 70% of the total land area allotted for greens, parks, playgrounds, jogging and biking lanes.

“Ortigas & Company is committed to provide high-quality developments for working, playing, and living,” adds Santos. “We develop centers for commerce, providing venues for new jobs and business opportunities. We also create exciting commercial spaces like Tiendesitas and the Greenhills Shopping Center, which constantly undergoes redevelopment to address the changing needs of our patrons. And, ever since the 80’s, we have offered prime residential communities like Valle Verde and Green Meadows, which both remain choice addresses for living. Now, we continue our tradition of providing premier residential options with our latest tower Lleida, in Circulo Verde.”

Being a responsible developer, Ortigas & Co. has made precautions against impending calamities like floods to ensure that Circulo Verde secure. Approximately P350 M was allotted to flood protection technology such as building a perimeter retaining wall, which will run one-kilometer on the periphery of Circulo Verde, an eight meter elevation from the Marikina River, automated floodgates, and a back-up pump system.
For more information you may contact the Circulo Verde Guest House at 6381641, the Sales Lounge at 7257894, or visit www.CirculoVerde.com.ph.

Joshwa Goes To Dipolog

2011-04-16T13:03:00.000+08:00

This was Joshwa's First Trip to Dipolog. He was only 5 years old during this time. Time flies so fast now Joshwa is 10 years old.

AT THE AIRPORT

INSIDE THE AIRPLANE

The Family Reunion

Holy Wholly Bayview Park

2011-04-09T00:55:00.000+08:00

Support the Philippines first Shark Sanctuary in Puerto Galera

2011-04-08T22:02:00.001+08:00

Target: Join us in supporting the Local Government of Puerto Galera to create a Shark Sanctuary
Sponsored by: Give Sharks a Fighting Chance

The local government of Puerto Galera has long supported marine conservation. Most fish and coral species flourish on Puerto Galera's beautiful reefs and their populations continue to grow. However, sharks have been over-fished and now just a handful remain. Without protection these important and beautiful animals will soon disappear

By adding your voice we can help the Local Government in making the decision to declare all of Puerto Galera a Shark Sanctuary

Yes to the Philippines first Shark Sanctuary in Puerto Galera
Yes to a Shark Conservation Awareness Program
No to catching of sharks in all municipal waters [From Talipanan to Villiaflor]
No sale of shark meat or fins in local markets
No sale of shark oil, teeth or jaws

Individually we stand alone. Stand together and we can make it happen. Sign Up Now and pass the link on to all your friends that care about the environment

Ultimate Quezon San Isidro Labrador (Pahiyas and Agawan Festival) Experience

2011-04-07T23:52:00.000+08:00

Ultimate Quezon San Isidro Labrador (Pahiyas and Agawan Festival) Experience! Date: May 15, 2011, Sunday Time: 4am Departure 9 pm Estimate Arrival Time Meeting Place: Starbucks 6750 Tour Description: It's fiesta time this month of May and what better way to drink, eat and be merry as we head south to explore charming Quezon province. It's the best time of the year as we join in the revelry and celebrate the feast of San Isidro de Labrador! First off, to Sariaya, a charming little town known for its gracious colonial-period homes. We'll have breakfast, take a stroll and admire these lovely houses as we revel in its traditional Agawan Festival. Then, it's off to Lucban and the Pahiyas festival where we'll feast our eyes over a smorgasbord of food, music, artistry and local color in one of country's most spectacular fiestas! Finally, on to San Pablo, Laguna to dine at the artsy Sulyap Gallery Cafe, a great way to cap-off a our Southern Tagalog experience! You will discover: - the best way to experience Twin San Isidro Labrado Festivals: Pahiyas in Lucban and Agawan in Sariaya!

Ultimate Quezon San Isidro Labrador (Pahiyas and Agawan Festival) Experience!

Date: May 15, 2011, Sunday

Time: 4am Departure
9 pm Estimate Arrival Time

Meeting Place: Starbucks 6750

Tour Description:
It's fiesta time this month of May and what better way to drink, eat and be merry as we head south to explore charming Quezon province. It's the best time of the year as we join in the revelry and celebrate the feast of San Isidro de Labrador! First off, to Sariaya, a charming little town known for its gracious colonial-period homes. We'll have breakfast, take a stroll and admire these lovely houses as we revel in its traditional Agawan Festival. Then, it's off to Lucban and the Pahiyas festival where we'll feast our eyes over a smorgasbord of food, music, artistry and local color in one of country's most spectacular fiestas! Finally, on to San Pablo, Laguna to dine at the artsy Sulyap Gallery Cafe, a great way to cap-off a our Southern Tagalog experience!

You will discover:
- the best way to experience Twin San Isidro Labrado Festivals: Pahiyas in Lucban and Agawan in Sariaya!

Kampangan Culinary Tour

2011-04-06T23:23:00.001+08:00

Lake Sebu and Beyond

2011-04-05T23:22:00.000+08:00

Capturing Rizal, Laguna and Quezon

2011-04-04T23:20:00.000+08:00

Food From The North

2011-04-03T23:18:00.000+08:00

Northern Backpacking: Sagada

2011-04-02T23:17:00.000+08:00

Grand Quartier Resort Suites in Tagaytay

2011-04-01T12:58:00.002+08:00

Summer is here and we're all looking for a place to hide away. Just about 50 kilometers from Makati Central Business District is the Grand Quartier Resort Suites in Tagaytay City. The cool temperature in Tagaytay should be inviting to get out of the hassle from the bustle and stress from the city. Grand Quartier Resort Suiteslies at Crosswinds, a 100-hectare Swiss sanctuary of pine trees to provide serenity of the soul for a peaceful, private and picturesque getaway. It really looks like an ideal place to unwind and recharge.

For an introductory price of Php 3,999 a night, The Grand Quartier Resort Suite shas units equipped with fully fitted LCD television, DVD player, mini bar, electric range, Chinaware, glassware, cutleries and kitchen utensils for those who prefer to cook. Hotel services provided by Hospitality International Incorporated (HII) include concierge services, daily housekeeping and complimentary breakfast for two. They also have in-room spa services available upon request. Guests may use the pool or take long walks around trekking paths. They also have outdoor playground and soon-to-open lawn perfect for weddings and product launches, hilltop channel, banquet hall with function rooms and a Swiss village with gourmet cafes and restaurants.

Settle for no place else than Grand Quartier Resort Suites. It's not just the experience of spending summer vacation in a new resort but fulfilling a dream of a breathtaking experience truly worth your time and money because you deserve the break. So, see you all at Grand Quartier Resort Suites. I'd also want to wake up smelling those pine trees.

For reservations and booking, call 8500884 or email reservations@gqresortsuites.com or visit www.gqresortsuites.com for more details.

AVIDA Land Corp. breaks ground at Bonifacio Global City, moves in at the home of passionate minds

2011-03-30T12:50:00.000+08:00

Avida Land is now in Bonifacio Global City. On its 20th anniversary last year, Avida Land Corp., continues to expand its territory further breaking new grounds in Bonifacio Global City.

As of 2010, Avida has produced around 40,000 fully constructed house and lot and condominium units, transformed close to 800 hectares of idle land into idyllic communities, and launched an impressive 38 projects in 16 locations across the country.

Good turnout in 2010
“There was a tremendous market turnout last year across the board that we have decided to revise our original plans to accommodate growing demands,” says Rex Mendoza, senior vice president of Ayala Land, Inc., the mother company of Avida.
Last year alone, it made around 10,000 units available to the market and added 102 hectares to its total land development.
Avida president Leo Montenegro agrees that the past year had been a good one for the property market as a whole.
“There were more launches from different companies, ergo more buyers.  It also became more challenging to sell because of the competition,” he says.
Avida successfully overcame that challenge, banking on the talent and skills able group of men and women who have tirelessly worked towards making Avida what it is today.
And as a testimony to its faith to its products and people, Avida will soon relocate its headquarters in one of the most coveted addresses in the country—Bonifacio Global City.
Aiming higher
Dubbed as “the home of passionate minds”, Bonifacio Global City will serve as the perfect venue for Avida employees to hone their skills and passion in delivering quality and affordable homes to the country’s hardworking middle class.
Avida, in fact, is likewise introducing a community at the very sought-after location—Avida Towers Global City. Here, one will find quality condominium units amidst an exciting and pulsating environment surrounded by posh lifestyle establishments and dining destinations.  It is an address, too, that is quite accessible through public transport and just a few minutes’ drive away from the Makati Central Business District.
Avida’s new headquarters will occupy two floors of Avida Towers Global City’s podium.  It is expected to be finished by the end of 2012.
And as it continues to expand its territory and break new ground, expect more idyllic homes and communities for generations of Filipinos to enjoy.
For more information on Avida Towers Global City, please call Within Metro Manila (+632) 848 5200; Outside Metro Manila 1-800-10 848 5200, or visitwww.avidaland.com for more details

DOT ties up with Smart & Perceptions For Domestic Tourism Campaign

2011-03-27T11:08:00.000+08:00

The Department of Tourism (DOT) recently formalized its partnership withSMART Communications, Inc., and Perceptions, Inc., to execute the DOT’sdomestic tourism advocacy program with a tagline “Pilipinas, Tara Na!” Asequel of the local tourism campaign dubbed as “Tara Na, Biyahe Tayo”that was launched several years ago, the new one will focus on historico-cultural, adventure, ecotourism, and nature destinations.

(Third from left) DOT Secretary Alberto A. Lim and SMART Wireless Chief Advisor Orlando B. Vea present the mock-up of a customized SIM for theDepartment of Tourism in a ceremony formalizing their partnership for thedomestic tourism advocacy campaign “Pilipinas, Tara Na!” With them are(from left) DOT Undersecretary Daniel G. Corpuz, DOT Domestic TourismPromotions Director Cynthia C. Lazo, Perceptions, Inc. CEO Renato E. Nievaand SMART Wireless Consumer Division Head Danilo J. Mojica).

“The idea is to bring tourism to various destinations in the country andsubstantially contribute to their local economies,” conveyed SecretaryAlberto A. Lim.“With this domestic tourism advocacy program, we hope to exceed 2009’srecord of 23 million domestic travellers and equitably distribute thebenefits of tourism to the provinces,” said Tourism Undersecretary forPlanning and Promotions Daniel G. Corpuz.SMART will sponsor the production of a TV commercial with thecorresponding airtime and an MTV.

The 30-seconder TV commercial thatwill be produced, presents a renowned talent, with a melange of destinations unravelling on screen. The music video, a remake of BiyaheTayo MTV, including new destinations, is being conceptualized anddeveloped by Perceptions, Inc. (PI) with the production cost to beshouldered by SMART. As of press time, 41 popular performers havepledged support to donate their time and talent for the new campaign.Smart will also provide an information technology system called theInfoboard. Tourists can benefit from information delivered right into theirmobile phones.

The set-up is even strengthened with customized DOTSIMs. The DOT Infoboard is a web-based solution that offers various SMSfacilities with different functions and capabilities catering to the needs of DOT community. Tourists including domestic travellers can receive SMSannouncement and advisories. On the other hand, DOT accreditedpartners can benefit by getting compliance and guideline informationthrough the handsets. Not only this, the solution presents customizedfeatures specially created for DOT—700 DOT (368). Through this onlinefacility, the DOT can also conduct polls and surveys and obtain real-timeresults.

2009 Household Survey on Domestic Visitors conducted by the DOT and the NationalStatistics Office

On the other hand, Perceptions, Inc., in addition to the updated musicvideo, will conduct PR and marketing promotions, launch advertorialsfeaturing celebrities as endorsers in major publications, and amplify thecampaign through online activities in Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube alsoat no cost to the DOT.The Department continues to seek private institutions willing to join itsadvocacy program in support of domestic tourism and at the same time,provide support to its regional offices and local government units in enhancing its festivals and tourism-related special events for the summer.

Avida Land Corp. enters Mandaluyong with Avida Towers Centera

2011-03-26T13:01:00.000+08:00

Avida Land reached another milestone with the grand launch of its newest condominium offering, Avida Towers Centera last March 19, 2011 at the Megatent in Pasig City.

Dubbed, "Top Form: Avida Towers Centera Grand Launch", the event featured a toast led by top executives from Ayala Land and Avida Land, with officers from project JV partner Philippine National Bank (PNB).

Avida Towers Centera is a four-tower development set to rise along EDSA corner Reliance Street in Mandaluyong City, where everything is accessible. This is Avida Land Corporation's first venture in Mandaluyong known as the Tiger city of the Philippines for its robust development. It is strategically located at the heart of Metro Manila, in the middle of the "Golden Triangle" comprised by the cities of Manila, Makati and Quezon City, where financial and lifestyle opportunities abound.

The project's facade incorporates roof deck lanterns and all-glass windows at the topmost floors. Special units on a limited basis, featuring two-bedroom with floor-to-ceiling windows located at the uppermost floors of the building to provide fantastic views of the cityscape will also be approved and this is one of the newest changes first in any Avida Project according to Mr. Montenegro. The project's facade incorporates roof deck lanterns and all-glass windows at the topmost floors.

Avida Towers Centera will have built-in retail stores and establishments at the first two floors to provide all conveniences to its future residents. Amenities common to anyAyala Land properties to be enjoyed in Avida Towers Centera include different zones to entertain friends, have fun, do fitness routines and solemnity gardens to complete a dream lifestyle.

3D street painting competition

As part of its grand launch, Avida Towers Centera organized a 3D Street Painting Festival wherein professional and amateur artists showcased their impressive street paintings, celebrating the theme “Fast-forward: Life at the Center of the Metropolis”.

The awarding was also held during the launch of Avida Towers Centera. The top prize went to Polytechnic University of the Philippines’ Guhit Sudlungan for its artwork called “Greater Access to Convergence”. Second prize was given to a group of fashion and graphic designers, Stycon, for their entry “Connected and Green”. The third placer, meanwhile, was University of the Philippines’ visual arts group 4:20 for their artwork, “Metropolis Mania”.

All Avida Towers are planned and built with the five condo must-haves in mind: free-flowing air and sunlight, fewer units per floor, sensible amenities, emergency power even inside your unit, and easy payment terms, making it a home that fits a condo-hunter’s needs now and over the long-term. With quality that is sure to last, An Avida home is a must-have.

To know more about Avida Towers Centera, please call 848-5200 or visitwww.avidaland.com.

Bonamine partners with DOT to promote domestic tourism

2011-03-23T17:45:00.000+08:00

Trek Sagada’s underwater river. Weave tinalak in Koronadal. Monitor whales in Bais City. Bonamine and the Department of Tourism extended the invitation for Filipinos to go-and-see the Philippines with a fresh perspective with the launch of the “Basta Pinas” domestic travel advocacy initiative in support of the DOT’s Pilipinas, Tara Na! campaign.

“We appreciate the assistance of private institutions such as Johnson & Johnson in encouraging our countrymen to rediscover the Philippines’ natural beauty and rich culture — for us to realize that our country has so much more to offer. Bonamine’s travel advocacy supports our DOT’s Pilipinas, Tara Na! domestic tourism campaign. This collaboration will help in getting information on our country’s hidden charms to a wider audience and we are looking forward to seeing more Filipinos traveling within the Philippines," DOT Secretary Alberto Lim said.

Tina Sabarre, Johnson & Johnson Philippines Marketing Director, said, “Our partnership with DOT to promote local destinations increases appreciation and with that, conservation awareness. Domestic tourism also helps sustain the tourism industry during the off-season, which in turn provides jobs for locals and spreads the wealth from the city to the countryside.”

Jerome Go, Johnson & Johnson’s Senior Brand Manager added, “As a brand that provides relief from motion sickness for you to enjoy the ride, Bonamine’s support of domestic tourism is just natural. Bonamine first launched a domestic-travel advocacy in 2003 called ‘Tara Na! Biyahe Tayo!’ which signed on 21 OPM artists to sing an invitation to travel around the Philippines. With airline and shipping companies that offer low fares making travel even easier since then, our invitation now is to see the country with fresh perspective.”

Facilitating this “fresh perspective” is the “Basta Pinas” website, soon to launch, which does not only contain destination ideas and how-to-get there information but also other people’s stories to inspire personalizing your 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. The beauty of the Philippines through a different lens is captured in the photography of campaign partner Chasing Light whose members’ photographs grace the official website and other communication collaterals.

Meanwhile, on the “Basta Pinas” Facebook Page, a “Saan sa Pinas” contest—that is, identifying a location based on one photo-puzzle piece at a time—by end March kicks off a series of such contests with travel-related prizes. “Like” us on facebook.com/BastaPinas for more information.

PAL marks 70th year

2011-03-15T23:00:00.000+08:00

Philippine Airlines celebrates its 70th year today by commemorating its storied past while charting a course for the future. The PAL family will mark the milestone with simple but meaningful activities. Masses will be held at the airline’s various stations and facilities throughout the country and overseas.
Tonight, PAL also hosts an anniversary reception at the Newport Performing Arts Theater at the Resorts World Manila complex in Pasay City.

It will be attended by PAL staff and about 1,500 guests from government, the diplomatic corps, and the aviation, travel and business sectors.
PAL chairman and chief executive officer Dr. Lucio C. Tan will lead the airline in welcoming the guests.
A host of top-rated entertainment artists – led by Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera, Kuh Ledesma, among others – will help PAL portray the last seven decades in a star-studded program that is both nostalgic and informative. Other surprises await those invited to the program.
As PAL turns 70, the airline has one eye on the legacies of its past and another on the goals of the future. Since its founding 70 years ago, PAL has been inextricably linked with the Filipino nation as the pioneer flag carrier, major air transport utility and partner in nation-building.
PAL was founded by a group of prominent Filipino industrialists on February 26, 1941. On March 15, 1941, a tiny Beech Model 18 aircraft carrying five passengers took off from Nielson Airport in Makati bound for Baguio –earning for PAL the distinction of being Asia’s first airline.
The flag carrier is bidding to replicate its past success in the more demanding operating and competitive landscape of the future. It faces a slate of tough challenges in this quest.
PAL reported a modest profit of $15.1 million in the third quarter (October to December 2010) of its current 2010-2011 financial year – a period when air travel gingerly recovered from a slump the previous year.
But the succeeding months, from January 2011 to the present, showed just how fragile the recovery was. The sudden eruption of political unrest in the Middle East sent crude oil prices skyrocketing to nearly $120 per barrel in late February – the highest in two and a half years.
This forced the global airline industry to flag a potential loss for carriers by the end of 2011. In fact, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has already downgraded its outlook for the year.
“Our current forecast is based on an average oil price of $84 per barrel. Today the price is over $100. For each dollar it increases, the industry is challenged to recover $1.6 billion in additional costs… 2011 is starting out as a very challenging year for airlines,” said IATA director general Giovanni Bisignani recently.

PAL Milestones

2011-03-14T22:53:00.000+08:00

March 15, 1941
A month after being incorporated by a group of Filipino businessmen, Philippine Airlines takes to the skies with a twin-engine, five-seater Beech Model 18 aircraft from Nielsen airfield in Makati to Baguio.

February 14, 1946
PAL resumes post-World War II operations with services to 15 domestic points. The fleet consists of five Douglas DC-3s.

July 31, 1946
PAL becomes first Asian airline to cross the Pacific when it operates a chartered Douglas DC-4 on the first of several flights to ferry home initially 40 US servicemen. Each crossing took 41 hours with refuelling stops at Guam, Wake, Kwajelein and Honolulu.

November 14, 1946
An air treaty between the Philippines and the US is signed. The treaty limits the Philippines to one route across the Pacific which PAL is already operating, while American airlines are allowed two in the exchange of air services. It also gives fifth freedom rights to and beyond Manila while the Philippines is allowed only traffic to and from the US. The Philippines has little choice in the matter as it badly needs American aid for rehabilitation.

May 3, 1947
PAL starts a DC-4 service to Rome and Madrid, thus earning the distinction of being the first airline in Southeast Asia to fly to Europe. Each flight took two days with stops at Calcutta, Karachi and Cairo.

August 6, 1949
President Elpidio Quirino flies on one of PAL's DC-6s to the US, becoming the first Chief Executive of the Republic to travel by PAL across the Pacific.

June 1962
PAL enters the jet age with the introduction of DC-8 jetliners.

January 1974
PAL becomes a monopoly in domestic air travel after President Ferdinand Marcos (by virtue of his powers under Martial Law) orders the foreclosure of two other airlines – Filipinas Orient Airlines (FOA) and Air Manila Inc. (AMI) – due to the fuel crisis arising from a war in the Middle East. PAL is told to absorb the aircraft and staff of FOA and AMI.

October 20, 1977
The GSIS acquires 92% of PAL shares from majority PAL owner Benigno Toda, returning ownership and control back to the government. Capital increases from P25 million to P250 million.

July 14, 1979
PAL becomes first airline to be honored by Les Chaines de Rotisseurs, an ancient order of gourmets, with an award for its inflight cuisine.

August 1, 1979
A route to Beijing and Canton is introduced with the first of two B727-200s, making PAL the first Asian carrier to fly into China. On the same day, PAL began carrying Filipino contract workers to the Middle East with the introduction of services to Bahrain.

January 4, 1980
The first Boeing 747-200 – dubbed as Jumbo jet – starts flying across the Pacific. As PAL's new flagship aircraft, it features 16 full-flat bunk beds called Skybeds at the upper deck exclusive for First Class passengers.

September 18, 1992
PAL is granted a record-setting US$122-million financing package by a consortium of 18 local financial institutions for the purchase of 10 new long-range aircraft.

July 6, 1993
PAL's first female pilot, Ma. Aurora "Aimee" Carandang, flies for the first time as a full-fledged captain on a Fokker 50 flight from Manila to Baguio.

January 1995
Lucio C. Tan becomes Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

September 23, 1998
PAL suspends operations as the Asian financial crisis takes its toll, aggravated by industrial action by its unions. It pulls out of most routes and drastically reduces its fleet.

October 7, 1998
PAL resumes operations on a limited scale.

June 4, 1999
The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission approves a rehabilitation plan designed to return PAL to financial viability, following a capital infusion of US$200 million by chairman Dr. Lucio C. Tan and his associates.

March 2000
PAL reports a net income of Php44.2 million for fiscal year 1999-2000, its first year under rehabilitation. The result snaps six straight years of losses and produces one of the most dramatic turnarounds in Philippine business.

August 2007
PAL takes delivery of its eighth Airbus A320-family aircraft - taking it about halfway through an $840-million modernization program for its narrow-body fleet that began in September 2006. PAL orders up to 20 brand-new A320-family jets.

October 2007
PAL exits from receivership.

April 2009
Launch of "Real Deal" marks series of low-fare promos in response to cut-throat competition with low-cost carriers

August 2009
Record loss of $297.8 million is reported for Fiscal Year 2008-2009 due to high fuel prices and effects of the global recession.

November 2009
PAL takes delivery of the country’s first Boeing 777

December 2009
Cabin reconfiguration of all Airbus A320s to bi-class (Mabuhay and Fiesta) makes PAL the only Philippine carrier to offer Business Class service on all domestic flights.

FIRST EVER INVESTMENT FORUM TO CREATE SPAIN-PHILIPPINES BUSINESS VENTURES

2011-03-13T19:44:00.000+08:00

The Economic and Commercial Office of the Spanish Embassy in Manila, on behalf of the Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX), will hold its first-ever SPAIN-PHILIPPINES INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COOPERATION FORUM on March 30th and 31st, 2011. The Forum is organized in collaboration with the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry and the Board of Investments.

30 Spanish companies will participate in the Forum. 22 of these Spanish companies will have individual agendas, organized by the Spanish Embassy to meet their Filipino counterparts for possible joint ventures, partner investments, technology transfer and franchising agreements.

They plan to develop investment projects in the fields of Automotive, Construction and Engineering, Fashion Retail, Food Service, Information and Communication Technologies and Technological Services.
Registration forms are available at www.spainbusiness.com/manilaforum. Interested local companies should email their filled-out registration forms to manilaforum@comercio.mityc.es as soon as possible to qualify for the Forum selection process.

Javier ÁLVAREZ, Economic and Commercial Counselor of the Embassy of Spain said that this year, ICEX chose the Philippines to be one of its partner countries for the Forum based on the demand of the Spanish companies and the potential of business ventures in the country.
The Forum will be officially inaugurated by Mr. Alfredo BONET, Secretary of State for Foreign Trade and ICEX President, and Mr. Jorge DOMECQ, new Spanish Ambassador to the Philippines. The Department of Trade and Industry, NEDA and the Department of Foreign Affairs will represent the Philippine Government at the event.

SPAIN - PHILIPPINES INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COOPERATION FORUM

2011-03-12T19:40:00.000+08:00

The Economic and Commercial Office of the Spanish Embassy in Manila, on behalf of the Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX), in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of the Philippines and its Board of Investments (BOI), is organizing the SPAIN-PHILIPPINES INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS COOPERATION FORUM. The event will be held in Makati City, Metro Manila, on March 30th and 31st of 2011.

The official opening ceremony on the 30th of March will be presided, on the Spanish side, by Mr. Alfredo BONET, Secretary of State for Foreign Trade and President of the Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX) and by the new Spanish Ambassador in Philippines, Mr. Jorge DOMECQ. On the local side, the Department of Trade and Industry, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs will represent the Philippines government.
ICEX only organizes 4 or 5 Investment and Business Cooperation Forums every year. The countries are selected on the basis of the demands of the Spanish companies and tend to be highly dynamic places with great potential.

In this regard, the Philippines is a promising market and investment destination, having reached a 7,3% GDP growth in 2010, starting to develop a broad strategy to upgrade its infrastructure with public-private partnerships (PPP) and offering many opportunities for business collaborations.

On the other side, Spanish companies are among the world leaders in infrastructure, renewable energy, environmental services, information technology, fashion and food.

The Forum aims to strengthen the bilateral economic relationship with regard to investment. Trade figures have been growing during recent years, with the Spanish exports to the Philippines reaching 167 million euro in 2010, a 16-year record high. The natural consequence of a continuous increase in trade will be new investments. The business environment is improving in the Philippines and the Spanish companies can play a major role in it.

Knowing that investment abroad is a required and natural step within the globalization process, with this event, ICEX wants to offer new investment and partnership opportunities to both the Filipino companies and the Spanish companies with a strong interest in the Philippines. In this sense, this Forum is not a promotional event but a platform where Filipino and Spanish companies can get in touch, analyse their abilities and design a common business strategy.

The Spanish companies participating in the Forum have been selected by ICEX due to their commitment and interesting investment plans in the Philippines. Only 60% of applications were accepted. For the potential Filipino counterparts, it means that they have the opportunity to meet highly reputed companies ready to offer expertise, technology and capital and start joint ventures, investments in new companies, technology transfer/subcontracting/franchising agreements, etc.

The organization of these Forums is the most important instrument that ICEX offers to the Spanish companies to promote investments abroad and, according to the results achieved, it is a completely successful programme for both Spanish and local companies. The report carried out by ICEX about the Forums held during 2009 showed that 27% of the Spanish participating companies had completed their investment project within a year and an additional 29% expected to do so in a short period of time.

In this forum, 22 SPANISH COMPANIES are looking for investment opportunities and potential local partners to develop projects in the following sectors:
Automotive Industry
• Services of consultancy on automotive standards, engineering and testing and homologation to vehicle manufacturers and Government bodies.
• Transfer of technology and collaboration in the assembly of fire fighting vehicles for airports.
Construction and Engineering
• Advanced technology refrigeration systems for power plants.
• Participation in civil construction public and private tenders, including PPP projects.
• Water infrastructure projects in all the water cycle.
• Participation with local partners in railway projects where delivery and maintenance of passenger rolling stock is requested.
• Solutions to agro-industries, food-related facilities, water related projects, modern storage facilities for food and cereals, bio-energies, renewable energies. .
• Renting of construction machinery.
• Projects to get energetic profit from the gases generated by waste, water and biomass treatment
• Transport infrastructure, especially railways and roads; and environment (water, wastewater and other waste).
• PPP projects in airports, rail and traffic management.
• Electrification and substations, medium generation, water and urban waste treatment; and renewable energy.
• Financial services for projects involving foreign trade and investment.
• Energy sector in general.
• Technical consulting in health, transport, water and environment PPP projects.
Fashion Retail
• Franchising by a premium designer.
• Franchising by the world’s leading company of bridal dresses, cocktail dresses and accessories for brides.
Food Service
• Joint venture in the fast food business.
Information and Communication Technologies
• IT solutions, services and products in aeronautics, banking and finances, space, defence, health, security, transportation, telecommunications, and information technology for public administration and large corporations.
• Development of WI-FI public or private areas .
• Digital television and pay-per-view (PPV) systems.

Technological Services
• Technology transfer, collaboration and research in the fish, fruit and vegetable sectors

During the two days of duration of the Forum these Spanish companies will have one-on-one meetings with selected Filipino counterparts. Any local company interested in participating in the event should fill the registration form and send it, as soon as possible to the following address: manilaforum@comercio.mityc.es. Final participation is not assured, as a selection will be made taking into account the profiles and the interests of both Spanish and Filipino companies.

The registration form and further details of the Forum are available on the website: www.spainbusiness.com/manilaforum.

ANNEX

• What is the role of the Spanish Institute of Foreign Trade (ICEX)?

The Spanish Institute of Foreign Trade is the agency in the Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce of Spain with the mission of helping Spanish companies internationalize their operations as a way of becoming more competitive and adding value to the economy as a whole. In this sense, its main aim can be summarized in one single concept: the GLOBALIZATION of the Spanish Enterprises. To reach this goal, ICEX offers a great variety of services (information, advice, training, etc) to the Spanish companies to guide them since their first steps abroad through exports agreements till the consolidation of set up operations and investments all over the world.

• What is the role of the Economic and Commercial Office of the Embassy of Spain in Manila?

The Economic and Commercial Office is the section of the Embassy of Spain in charge of trade and commercial relations and offers, among others, the following services to the Spanish companies: general market research and promotion services, organization of promotion activities like the ones developed by ICEX as fairs and trade shows, trade missions, publicity campaigns, etc., information about markets and opportunities, preparation of market studies, information about international tenders, guidance and assistance in organizing international meetings like bilateral committees or Chambers assemblies, information about exporting companies to local importers, orientation to local investors in Spain and Spanish investors in the country, information and following up of multilateral projects financed by international institutions and assistance to the Spanish companies in their relationships with them.

• What is the role of the Department of Trade and Industry and the Board of Investments?

They are the official local counterparts of ICEX in the organization of the event. Representatives from the department will participate in the forum. The DTI and the BOI are also helping by providing local contacts and information.

Day 133: Bonding with Mama Rescy

2010-05-13T00:31:00.000+08:00

We recently had a Family Outing. My kids had so much fun they didn't want to leave the kiddie pool.

Day 132: Tribal

2010-05-12T00:27:00.000+08:00

Another new thing that you have to do in Baguio. Have your photo taken wearing their native costume.

Day 131: The Mansion

2010-05-11T00:23:00.000+08:00

This was first time to have my photo taken at the THE MANSION. Notice my stance my back was really hurting and Katinko and Vicks were my best friends during that vacation. I hope it didn't show on my face.

Day 130: Biking

2010-05-10T00:18:00.000+08:00

I wasn't able to join them because I had a bad back. I injured it during our vacation. I just took photos from the sidelines. I love this Photo Joshwa wants to use the bike and Adee is being a diva.

Day 129: Joshwa's Smile

2010-05-09T00:14:00.000+08:00

I really loved this photo.. I really love seeing him smile. Nothing I want more than to see Joshwa to be happy. The vacation was stressful but it was worth it because Joshwa really had a great time

Day 128: Photo Standee

2010-05-08T00:09:00.000+08:00

The kids were really super troopers they didn't whine or complain about the photo.

The kids also had a great time.

Day 127: Horse

2010-05-07T00:05:00.000+08:00

Was so proud of Joshwa he sat on the horse and didn't put up any fuss.

Day 126: Sexy

2010-05-06T00:02:00.000+08:00

If we had this body we would definitely flaunt it.. Really loved this photo standee

Day 125:GUN

2010-05-05T23:57:00.000+08:00

This was taken in PMA.. Philbert really was into this shot because I think he was imagining he was aiming it and actually using it.Mafia wars mode perhaps?

Day 124: Mahjong

2010-05-04T23:49:00.000+08:00

Mahjong is a new hobby that my family recently discovered.They really love it and find any excuse to play.

Day 123: Camel Ride

2010-05-03T15:53:00.000+08:00

No Visit to the Holy Land is complete without riding the camel..

Day 122: Vows

2010-05-02T18:58:00.000+08:00

My Parents celebrated their 34 Wedding Anniversary by renewing their vows in Cana.

Day 121:Camel

2010-05-01T15:51:00.000+08:00

Day 120: Mama

2010-04-30T15:46:00.000+08:00

Mama has always been a special part
Of all that’s cherished in my heart,
She is my pearl, my anchor,my compass;
She is an angel without the wings,
Who makes life special with the littlest things,

Whenever I’m in need of love,
She's always there for me
Whenever I'm in need of prayers
She will be there to storm the heavens with prayers for me and with me.
Whenever I’m in need of a shoulder,
There’s no one as devoted as my mother.

Her presence and love have always been there,
Everything in her nature is to only care.
With every soft hug and kiss
The world seems more beautiful and blessed.

I’m sorry for all the times I caused you pain,
But after these brief storms my love still remains.
I love you so much,
I will love you forever-
I wrote your name on my heart
And it will stay there forever, and ever

Day 119: Papa

2010-04-29T15:38:00.000+08:00

Dad Poem
This is for my Papa who I love as much that words can't say. For all the times he said 'I love you' to me. For every moment he is with me. For every word that means something to me.

My Papa
He's there when I wake
He's there when I sleep
He's there when I'm not
He's there when I am

His love is unconditionally
His walks are slow
His family is first
His children are his joy

Joy love caring is he
Friendly helpful is him too
Careful educated he also is
my Papa is all this and more

Papa's love to me is more than words
Daddy's words are loving ones
Father's love is there when I'm not
Papa is more to me than words can ever say

His little angle writs of love
Papa's love of all kinds
The one love that lasts
One kind and no more

All I think of is
I LOVE YOU
No more then that
No one can take Papa's heart away

I LOVE YOU PAPA
and nothing more

Day 118:Holy Land

2010-04-28T15:37:00.000+08:00

Day 117: Reunion

2010-04-27T11:06:00.000+08:00

I try not to go to High School reunions simply because I hated my high school life and that I didn't think that I had fond memories. I gave our 10th year high school reunion a chance but it wasn't what I hoped it would be. But despite my misgivings I'm glad i went to our small gathering.

Day 116: Where Am I?

2010-04-26T23:17:00.000+08:00

You'll never guess that the girl on the photo was me.It was a totally different me.I was shy and not sure of myself.I barely had friends and college was 2 years away..

Day 114: Fall

2010-04-24T22:18:00.000+08:00

Fall/Autumn is my favorite season of the 4.I love fall because it is the best i would say.The transition from the ALWAYS too hot summer season is just something you look forward to. it's not hot but it's not too cold either. you can sightsee and all that without the hassle of the heat and the icy cold.The scene is just really calming.. leaves falling and there's a breeze blowing.

Day 113: Tree

2010-04-23T22:15:00.000+08:00

I attended an event in Tagaytay and they will plant a rambutan in my name..This is really something different..Say it with me awww sweet!

Day 112: Cow

2010-04-22T22:03:00.000+08:00

The famous 5-legged cow named Bull-tez-five.This cow has an extra limb closely attached to the right, front legs. This medical condition is called polymelia, a birth defect that ends up with an extra and usually malformed limb

Day 110: Lato'

2010-04-20T21:23:00.000+08:00

This is a kind of seaweed. Which are extensively used as food by coastal peoples, particularly in East Asia. Seaweeds are any of a large number of marine plants and protists.

Day 108: Swimming with Daddy

2010-04-18T12:00:00.000+08:00

Adee and Daddy had a great time getting wet under the gigantic shower in Fontana.Adee had a great time and I'm sure did too.

Day 107: Joshwa is Jealous

2010-04-17T11:54:00.000+08:00

I was like grinning like an idiot from ear to ear.It was like did you hear that?? Did you hear that?? He used a different tone on her. YES!!! He knows who his sister is.. Hahaha!!! We officially have sibbling issues..Yes I’m so weird I know.Thank God for our simple joys and cognitive milestones.

Yes.. You read it right.. Joshwa is showing signs of jealousy towards his sister. He wants whatever she wants and absolutely didn’t want to share his dad’s attention.He looks at Adrianne differently this past few days. Whenever he can pass the buck and blame his sister he would say Adrianne did it. Which happens most of the time.
I was like grinning like an idiot from ear to ear.It was like did you hear that?? Did you hear that??He used a different tone on her. YES!!! He knows who his sister is.. Hahaha!!! We officially have sibbling issues..Yes I’m so weird I know. Thank God for our simple joys and cognitive milestones.

Day 106: Enough is Enough

2010-04-16T11:52:00.000+08:00

s Enough

April14

I dreaded receiving the Meralco bill because I know it would spike..Our last bill was at 2,500 and now its at 3,800 and I’m dreading the next bill even more. I am hearing a lot of stories from other people. Bloggers like Noemi Dado, Chuvaness &Carlo Ople have also written about this issue. The electric bill going up as high as 50% to 90%. Scary!!!
They are telling us that they are not making any money. How can they not make money out of all of us when they have virtually hostaged us. You don’t pay on time and they cut your electricity. You can’t even pay less than what you are supposed to. They even have the audacity to say that we’re still going to have rotating brownouts. I even joined the facebook group ONLINE PROTEST AGAINST MERALCO ELECTRICITY PRICE HIKE to say that we need to take a stand.This highway robbery cannot go on. Enough is enough.

I looked at my bill and I can see that they have a lot of charges.Namely : Generation charge, Tax on Generation charge, Transmission charge ,Tax on Transmission charge, System loss Tax on System Loss Distribution, Metering and Supply charges Lifeline rate subsidies Tax on distribution, metering and supply charges and lifeline rate subsidies. Local franchise tax Universal charges when you sum it up that is the total of our electric bill.
Did you even notice that in one electric bill we pay for 5 different kids of taxes? This is the flow of electricity and I know that the flow of electricity even the substation and step-down transformers are operating on the maximum efficiencies. Unfortunately we don’t even know if how long do they use the machines before they replace it which might account for the breakdown of the plants and cause power failures.
I don’t agree with the system loss because it is their loss and they should not pass it on to us They should also remove the universal charges because it is still our money and while they are at it the subsides charge and transmission charges should go too. We should just pay for the electricity that we actually consume. They are making so much money so they should shoulder the charges why would they pass the buck on to us.Another thing that makes me sick is the 12% e-vat. Imagine 5% Tax that you paid for will be taxed yet again.
What makes me even more is sick is the politicians that are campaigning for our votes this coming elections are not saying or doing anything. This is just telling me that nothing has changed we still don’t have candidates that have enough substance. Most of the politicians are just all about the grandstanding, promising things that they could never keep and black propaganda against their political rivals.

Day 105:Fan Girl Mode

2010-04-15T11:49:00.000+08:00

This is mom is still a boy band fan at heart and the latest target of her fan girl mode obsession is Super Junior!!!!
Super Junior (Korean: 슈퍼주니어), often referred to as SJ or SuJu (슈주), is a 13-member boy band from South Korea formed by SM Entertainment in 2005. The current active members consist of Leeteuk (leader), Heechul,Han Geng,Yesung,Kang-in,Shindong, Sungmin, Eunhyuk, Donghae, Siwon, Ryeowook, Kibum, and Kyuhyun. The Chinese member, Han Geng, was chosen from three thousand applicants, via auditions held in China by SM Entertainment in 2001.

Super Junior has released and contributed in 19 different kinds of records with varying degrees of success. Over the years, they have been divided into smaller sub groups, simultaneously targeting different music industries and audiences. Largely due to Super Junior’s success as entertainers, other Korean entertainment managements began to train their music groups in other areas of entertainment, such as acting and hosting.

Day 104: What I Want To Be

2010-04-14T00:52:00.001+08:00

My name is Adrianne Marie Therese Pagaspas. When I want to grow up I want to be a CHEF

Day 103: My Latest Hairstyle

2010-04-13T00:50:00.000+08:00

Day 102: Moving Up Day

2010-04-12T00:46:00.000+08:00

Totally loved this photo.. In the middle of the event Adee starts crying because she couldn't see her daddy.

Day 101: Joshwa and The Movies

2010-04-11T01:14:00.000+08:00

When Joshwa was 3 I took him to watch Finding Nemo he cried the whole time. He probably didn’t like the sound or the dim lights. I got stares and shhhushes from people and we left the cinema.

When he was around 6 we tried to watch a movie s again. This time in a $1 movie theater.Can’t say that he enjoyed it but he also didn’t give any indication that he didn’t like it. Which was a great sign so we did it again we watched another movie in the same theater. I guess it also helped that the moviehouse doesn’t have a lot of people at that time
A few months later we (my sister and I) bought tickets to Pirates of the Caribbean At World’s End showing in El Capitan Theatre

.It was a success because he sat through the movie and did not put up any fuss. I really hope we could try to watch a movie here but I was more traumatized by the Finding Nemo Experience. I really, really want to try to do it again. I’m still waiting for the right time.

This morning while doing my daily blog hopping I read Pinky’s blog and she mentioned thatPicturehouse s offers Autism-Friendly Screenings that are geared especially for people on the autism spectrum and their families. Some people with autism are sensitive to sound and light which makes going to the movies a bit of a challenge.

During Autism-Friendly Screenings low lights are left on and the level of volume of the soundtrack is lessened. No one even looks at you if your child decides to make sounds or starts laughing and jumping around while the movie is being shown.
I really like this idea and I hope someday to line up and be able to watch a movie again with Joshwa. The good news is that this dream might soon be a reality. Standby for more information on this great news.

Day 100:ABA

2010-04-10T01:10:00.000+08:00

Joshwa’s therapy is ABA or Applied Behavioral Analysis which according to this site means that approach teaches social, motor, and verbal behaviors as well as reasoning skills (1). ABA treatment is especially useful in teaching behaviors to children with autism who may otherwise not “pick up” these behaviors on their own as other children would.

Joshwa’s teacher is Teacher Thomas his old teacher. We went back to him despite the fact that he’s a bit pricey because Joshwa already knows him and I didn’t want to be at the mercy of a therapy center who will suddenly send a new therapist without prior notice.
That will really wreak havoc on Joshwa and his schedule.
He knows this therapist already so we decided to just stick to him. True enough the teacher went to work right away. There was little adjustment
that was needed to be done on Joshwa’s part.He is also Joshwa’s Aqua Therapy Teacher.
My mom asked me how will I pay for the therapist? I didn’t know how to answer her. But the Lord will provide that I know. We’ve been doing this therapy for 1 year and God is so great. He touched the heart of my dad to help us cover Joshwa’s therapy.

Day 99: Welcome to Autism

2010-04-09T01:05:00.001+08:00

Welcome to the rollercoaster ride that is called autism. This is one of heck of an adventure. My name is Leira and I’m Joshwa’s mommy he was diagnosed with autism last June 5,2002 (how can I ever forget that date). The first thing you need to do is Breath’e out. Repeat. Then do it one more time. Now, look around find out as much as you can about your child’s condition. The second thing that you need to do is don’t think of it as a life sentence.
Stop the blame game because IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT. It is not going to help you and your child. Just think of it this way God gave you an important assignment and you have to share with your child as much as you could.
Let me just tell you that you are not alone.Never ever hesitate to let someone know how you feel and what you are going through. Find someone who is or has been through what you are going through and feeling now who can just listen and be a source of strength. Attend support group meetings.Never isolate yourself from the real world, let others in to provide you help and strength.
Learn to block out the negativity for your child’s sake. If a relative refuses to have a relationship with your child because of autism. Don’t force it our kids may not speak but they are far more sensitive. This is probably one of the hardest things that I would tell you stop thinking about the what could have been and should have been. If you have older kids stop comparing your child with Autism(CWA) to your Neuro Typical Kids.Stop looking at kids his age and thinking about what he should be doing.I know that it’s not easy but for the sake of your child.
There are a lot of options and possibilities out there – but the key is to find those that work well BOTH for your child AND for your family. You don’t have to rush, and you DON’T have to go broke. Take your time, consider options, and meanwhile take time to play with and enjoy your child!
The best part of having kids like ours is we really do learn to sweat the small stuff. You stop being angry that the walls have doodles and appreciate the fact that your child can write. You don’t get angry that your child repeats JOLLIBEE 50 times in 5 minutes and appreciate the fact that your child just can speak and wants to reach out to you. You are happy at the fact that he is upset that his sister wants his candy and ecstatic that he’s sharing his emotions.
We realize that we do have it in us to champion our kids and to become their best advocates.

DAY 98: DISTURBING

2010-04-08T23:47:00.000+08:00

Translation:

Mga Kapatid:
Ang mga pamilya sa bilanggo na walang kasalanan.
Nakakaawa Talaga
Atin silang tulungan

Ating iboto sa Party List
Kapatiran na mga Nakulong nang Walang Sala

KaKuSa

While I have no objections about the party list. The fact that Jalosjos is the spokesperson of the group makes it so disturbing,

Day 97: SWIM

2010-04-07T00:44:00.000+08:00

Day 96: Tree House

2010-04-06T00:00:00.000+08:00

Yes that's right we do have a tree house. I only climbed it once because I don't like heights.I'm glad Papa decided to build one for our kids.

Day 95: Best in Computer

2010-04-05T00:33:00.000+08:00

Proud Mommy Moment!!! Joshwa is Best in Computer!

Day 94: My New Hair

2010-04-04T00:25:00.000+08:00

Had a new haircut and I really, really loved it

Day 93: Spilled Milk

2010-04-03T00:49:00.002+08:00

Well this isn’t a figure of speech this is the real thing. Philbert was home and the yaya’s were out. One took her day off and the other one was borrowed by mom. I told Philbert to watch the kids since I really needed to take a quick nap.

woke up an hour later and my reaction was expletives. Then I wanted to cry There was powder everywhere at first I thought that the kids played with baby powder then when I stepped on the floor it wasn’t baby powder it was Adee’s Milk. . I had to figure out how to clean everything on my own.I could see Joshwa trying to wipe the floor because he realized what they had done.

Where was my husband in all of these? Well he also took a nap and thus the kids were unsupervised.. When I confronted him he became defensive and I had no energy to fight with him. I had to give the kids a bath they were sticky because of the clouds of powdered milk. They had milk on their hair and clothes. Then I decided to clean the floor. Which took me over an hour to do so.

I even snapped at my husband because he was acting like a back seat cleaner. He was just sitting there and just telling me that I missed a spot or that I didn’t do this. I just told him if you are not going to help me then don’t say anything at all.
Then I sat down with the kids and asked them who did it?Joshwa was quick to say it was Adee. I asked Adee who did it and she said it was ME! Can you imagine that my son has autism telling me that his sister did it.. Who could even get angry after that conversation.

Day 92:Hands

2010-04-02T19:43:00.002+08:00

You better take care of me Lord, if you don't you're gonna have me on your hands.
Hunter S. Thompson

Day 91: Adee's New Hairstyle

2010-04-01T01:59:00.001+08:00

I decided it was time for Adee to get a new haircut. I took her to David's.. I don't understand everyone's reaction when they ask me where Adee got her haircut and I say David's and they say WOW! Why is that a big deal. I will never attempt to cut my children's hair. I still hate looking at our family album because I hated my hair while I was growing up.My mom did our hair cuts and I hated the apple cut.

DAY 90: FLOWER

2010-03-31T00:00:00.000+08:00

Day 89: Her Sweet Life

2010-03-30T00:00:00.000+08:00

This is Adee's life.. She loves this ELMO Chair and loves to watch Playhouse Disney!

Day 88: TACO

2010-03-29T18:00:00.000+08:00

I decided to eat at Pancake House for merienda. Ever since I've tried their tacos, I fell in love with it. For me, it is very filling and I love that it has a lot of cheese in it nevermind if it is a bit messy.

Day 87:BFF

2010-03-28T17:57:00.000+08:00

If you're alone, I'll be your shadow. If you want to cry, I'll be your shoulder. If you want a hug, I'll be your pillow. If you need to be happy, I'll be your smile. But anytime you need a friend, I'll just be me. ~Author Unknown

Day 86: Happy Birthday Grishan

2010-03-27T17:50:00.002+08:00

To say that my sister and I are two very different people is an understatement. I'm a calm and she's quick tempered. .Growing up, my sister was the one who took most things seriously and I was the one who just wanted to have fun. She protected me from the bullies.She stood up for me and protected me the best way she knew how.

No matter how different we are or how differently we communicate there is nothing that I would not do for her and I know she feels the same about me.We do have our misunderstandings and disagreements from time to time but all sisters do. I'm always proud to say that she is my sister. I would forever appreciate her and be thankful that she is so supportive and I love her for loving my kids. What's not to love about her she's pretty,she's fashionable,she's smart,she's a fighter,confident and no one could ever let her down.I could go on and on.I don't know if she knows that I love her and that I'll be here for her. I'm contented to just stay in the shadows to support her if she needs me.

Day 85:DESSERT

2010-03-26T14:33:00.005+08:00

Day 84: CRAB

2010-03-25T14:26:00.000+08:00

This is the biggest Crab that I have ever held..GRABE!!!

Day 83:Tofu Sisig

2010-03-24T14:20:00.000+08:00

Tofu ‘sisig' is a bit oily because the tofu cubes have to be fried first. Use vegetable oil or olive oil in frying. Brown the tofu cubes to have slightly chewy tofu ‘sisig'.

Wash and drain 1 large block of firm tofu. Cut into cubes and deep-fry in very hot oil. Place on strainer to remove excess oil.
Sauté a half cup of chopped red onions and one-fourth cup of sliced long green peppers in small amount of hot oil. Stir in fried tofu cubes.
Add 3 tablespoon vinegar and let boil. Add salt and ground black pepper to season. Sprinkle brown sugar to sweeten the taste. Serve hot.

Day 82: Coffee Pie

2010-03-23T13:59:00.000+08:00

The perfect dessert after a perfect meal melt-in-your-mouth coffee pie.

Day 81: Airport

2010-03-22T03:26:00.000+08:00

I love this photo! This was taken after our vacation. Our smiles were probably a sigh of relief because we survived the vacation without a yaya.Vacation is supposed to be fun and relaxing so I am not going on another vacation with the kids without the yaya or probably when Adee is 10 years old.

Day 80:Papa's Girl

2010-03-21T03:15:00.000+08:00

You are definitely a Papa's Girl and you definitely know how to wrap him around your little finger.

Day 79: Honey Garlic Pork Spareribs

2010-03-20T00:42:00.000+08:00

On a tasty scale, I give it a 10. I just couldn't but rave over this dish! It was so good!!! Yummy!

Day 78: Poached Eggs

2010-03-19T00:07:00.000+08:00

Poached eggs are perfect for serving atop a piece of toast specially for Kaya Toast. There's no added fat, and for the life of me I just can't get it right.. I love it but I just couldn't get it right

Day 77: Milk Tea

2010-03-18T00:44:00.001+08:00

I'm a tea lover. I've learned to appreciate it and drink it as it is like Tea bags and hot water.Whenever I get the chance I drink tea with milk just like the british.. I just love the texture of milk and tea. Which is my I really love this tea-c(tea plus condensed) which is of course not such a great idea for someone who is trying to lower their blood sugar.

Day 76: Vegetarian Soup

2010-03-17T00:32:00.000+08:00

I didn't like this very much.. just goes to show that I'm not meant to be a vegetarian (HAHA)

Day 75: Catfish Salad

2010-03-16T00:20:00.000+08:00

In Thailand, fish be can cooked in many ways, even on a salad. I tasted this and was really surprised because I really liked it. Eventhough I'm not a big fan of sour mango and fish

Day 74: Pad Thai

2010-03-15T00:41:00.000+08:00

Pad Thai or Phat Thai ("fried Thai style") is a dish of stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, fish sauce , tamarind juice, red chilli pepper, plus any combination of bean sprouts, shrimp, chicken, or tofu, garnished with crushed peanuts, coriander and lime, the juice of which can be added along with Thai condiments.

Pad Thai is one of Thailand's national dishes.

Day 73: Yogurt

2010-03-14T00:28:00.001+08:00

This is how Frozen Yogurt should look and taste like.. Yummy and Guilt Free and with the great ice cream taste.

Day 72: Sinful

2010-03-13T00:18:00.000+08:00

Definitely DELICIOUS but very sinful!!!

Day 71: Bag

2010-03-12T00:01:00.001+08:00

I hurriedly snapped this photo of Nina Corpuz's bag (an ABS-CBN News reporter). I attended a function and she dumped her bags on the chair beside me. Since I'm not a big fan of having my photos taken with the celebrities.I think that this is the next best thing.

DAY 70: Burger Cheez Whiz

2010-03-11T00:21:00.000+08:00

I was surprised when I saw this.. Cheez Whiz Burger Flavor. This so yummy!!It really does have a sort of cheeseburger taste...I really like this flavor..

Day 69: Halo Halo

2010-03-10T01:49:00.000+08:00

I have never seen anything as big as this Halo Halo. This is the biggest!!! This costs PhP 300 and is good for 3 people.

This is what the top view looks like. It's loaded!!!

Day 68: Luna

2010-03-09T12:31:00.000+08:00

I never thought I'd see one of Juan Luna's artworks but I did. I'm amazed!!!

Day 67:Jose Tence Ruiz’s Topless Victorian.

2010-03-08T00:15:00.001+08:00

Love this painting... Girl Power at it's finest!!!

Day 66:Museum

2010-03-07T01:47:00.002+08:00

Fifty years have passed since Lopez Museum’s doors first opened and sought a public for its trove of what was then loosely imagined as Filipiniana, presumably material proof of what was held in common or at least tenuously marked off what was and was not Filipino.What started as the personal collection of the late Lopez Group founder Eugenio H. Lopez Sr. has evolved into a trusted and well-loved Philippine institution. In fact, the Lopez Memorial Museum and Library collection now ranks as one of the finest in Asia.

Day 65: Nestea Bottle

2010-03-06T01:45:00.000+08:00

I love this bottle It can store just the right kind of beverage that I need. Perfect for a hot summer's day!!!!

DAY 64: SISIG

2010-03-05T00:44:00.000+08:00

Sisig, the ultimate pulutan companion for beer. Around bars and restaurants, the many varieties of sisig dish is a best seller either to go along your favorite drink or to be chowed down with hot steamed rice. Originally, sisig was made from chopped parts of a pig’s head — ears, snout, the brain, etc. Over the years it was reinvented into simple minced meat served on a sizzling platter with chili, liver, onion and seasoned with calamansi and vinegar.

As much as I want to eat it.. I'm scared because the last time I ate it my hypertensioin went through the roof and It really scared me.So I really avoid it like the plague.

DAY 63: BOCCE

2010-03-04T00:38:00.000+08:00

Bocce (lawn bowling) is played on flat ground or grass. It is an ancient game, with its modern adaptation most closely resembling bowling. It is played by 2 individuals or a team, who are to roll the bocce ball aiming for a smaller ball called “jack.” The team or individual with the closest bocce ball to the jack can score points in any frame. The scoring team receives one point for every ball that is closer to the jack than the closest ball of the other team or individual.

Day 62: Volunteer

2010-03-03T00:27:00.000+08:00

Being a volunteer is NEVER an Easy Job.. It's a very thankless job and you don't get paid to do it. I salute all the volunteers who brave the heat of the sun and never expecting anything in return.

Day 61:Giant Pizza

2010-03-02T22:38:00.001+08:00

My Tita Bought this pizza and It's 35".She ordered this at El Buono pizza..Which is located at the back of makati cinema square.. It was really good!!!