EXPAT Nov 28-Dec 11, 2010

expatexpatexpatNEWSPAPER November 28 - December 11, 2010 Vol. XXVI No. 130 expatphilippines.wordpress.com The Philippines Forum for International Readers since 1981

By JAHZEEL ABIHAIL G. CRUZ WHAT’S Summit Tells Drivers, “Go Electric!” re you a driver wanting do something The eJeepneys, as compared to other converted get your money back, and once the technology for Mother Earth but don’t know vehicle types, currently run at 70 kilometers is available to everyone, you don’t really need to INSIDE what? Here’s a suggestion: go electric. per fully charged battery. buy brand new,” Raquelsantos assures. A “We provide electric kit conversion for about While the price tag (including that of the PHP 250,000,” says Ferdiand Raquelsantos, battery manufactured by local company Mo- More to Come president of PhUV, Inc. If the company doesn’t tolite at PHP 6,500, good for 500 charges), At the first Philippine Electric Vehicle ring a bell, their now-famous eJeepneys ply- public utility drivers are currently hesitant. Summit hosted by power giant Meralco, ing the streets of Makati City, among other Raquelsantos therefore pushes for a stronger Raquelsantos presented the first converted locales, most probably will. information campaign. “In Ayala-Alabang, electric car registered with the Land Transpor- Electric conversion – which PhUV can do [the eJeepneys] still have the same fare, but the tation Office – a yellow 1970 Toyota Corolla. for a number of passenger vehicles, including operator and the driver earn almost twice, be- PhUV’s conversion package includes fees for jeepneys – involves replacing gas-guzzling en- cause a diesel-engine jeepney costs PHP 5.15 vehicle registration. gines with a motor chargeable via an ordinary per kilometer while the eJeepney costs PHP “We’re hoping that the MMDA or the TRAVEL socket. The entire conversion process takes 2.60 per kilometer.” DOTC will grant an exception for coding for Go slipper-shopping and about a month. “If you use it every day, it will last only orange plates,” the color for electric vehicles, he more in Liliw, Laguna Raquelsantos says a six- to eight-hour charg- for a year and a half. But with our experience adds. Other benefits that might greet vehicle page 2 ing session can provide enough energy for an in Makati, we’ve been using them for almost owners include electronic registration (given electric car to travel 105 kilometers at a maxi- two years,” he adds about the batteries. The city the non-necessity for emission testing), while mum speed of 60 kilometers per hour – all for government there shoulders the cost of charg- manufacturers like PhUV are seeking tax ex- the price of around PHP 168 in “fuel”. ing the eJeepneys at the local fire station. emptions as pioneers, which may translate to a “What we are doing right now are practical Private vehicle owners can expect the same six-year tax holiday. improvements. Before we were only running return on investment should they convert. “Our Makati’s eJeepneys, thrust into national around 70 kilometers per charge.” He added. projection is that in three and a half years, you spotlight when Vice President page 6 EXPAT AND THE EARTH

ByCroc ELGA D. REYES Attack: Threats to the Native Reptile working together with the rural communities number of species is in the wild, is now con- EVENTS for more than ten years, and now it is these sidered a flagship species. These, by World- Straits Wine’s three-day revelry townspeople of San Mariano, Maconacon wide Fund for Nature (WWF) definition, are and Divilacan that need a hand. In its plea, the “iconic animals that provide a focus for raising page 4 foundation stated their commitment to give awareness and stimulating action and funding PHP 200,000 for emergency aid, but added for broader conservation efforts.” that greater funding is required to restore com- This has not always been the case. Formerly munities and their livelihoods. spread out across the country, this endemic In an email interview with Expat Newspa- freshwater reptile, said to be timid and unag- per, Merlijn van Weerd, one of three Dutch gressive unless goaded, is classified as critically A boy tries to retrieve remnants of their ruined house in volunteer scientists with the group, said they endangered by the International Union for San Mariano (photo by Willem van De Ven, Mabuwaya Foundation) have been steadily “coordinating support for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) page 6 affected communities with the provincial gov- t is a crocodile conservation group that ernment of Isabela, the Armed Forces and is sounding a wakeup call for the north- with relief organizations.” ern province of Isabela post-super ty- Thus far, Mabuwaya has raised more than its phoonI Juan (international code name Megi). intended goal, garnering approximately PHP The Mabuwaya Foundation, whose name 700,000 or EUR 12,000. PEOPLEIn Mindanao, Andrew Hatfield is a combination of Tagalog words mabuhay finds fun in badminton (long live) and buwaya (crocodile), is a non- Non-threatening, Yet Threatened page 9 government organization working for the con- The Philippine crocodile (Crocodylus mindo- servation of the critically endangered Philip- rensis) in Isabela, and specifically in the mu- pine crocodiles in Isabela. The group has been nicipality of San Mariano where the largest 2 expat newspaper NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 11, 2010 travel ho says you need to pack an overnight bag to enjoy a fun trip out of town? For an easy, no- frills, all-day outing, Liliw is an ideal place Wto go. This quaint small town at the foothills of mysti- cal Mount Banahaw in Laguna is just a short three- hour ride away from Manila. There are bus terminals in the Buendia-Taft area, or if you are coming from Que- zon City, there are bus terminals along EDSA-Kamias, A Leisurely Day in which is where we took our ride early Friday morning. Text and photos by ASTRA C. ALEGRE Two hours later, we were in San Pablo, where we alighted and took a tricycle that took us to a jeepney stop for the final leg of our land trip. The jeepney ride from San Pablo to Liliw took another 45 minutes. It was a comfortable ride on paved roads that were curvy in certain places. We passed the historic underground cemetery used as a secret meeting place by Filipino revolu- tionaries during the Spanish times in Nagcarlan, which is the town just before our final destination. We arrived at the St. John the Baptist Church just in time for the Consecration at the first Friday mass, which was at- tended by school children in their gala uniforms as well as townsfolk and various devotees. Founded in the early 1600s, the old Spanish church and convent was damaged by an earthquake in 1880, partly burned in 1898, and in more recent times, devastated by super typhoon Rosing. Restoration had been undertaken and completed, staying true to its original style of Philippine- Spanish colonial architecture. A hospitable parishioner di- rected us to a new addition at one side of the church, the capilla of San Buenaventura, where we lighted different colored candles for specific intentions: blue for wisdom, pink for success, violet for forgiveness, green for good health, white for holiness, yellow for family, and red for strength. Soon, it was time for lunch. Just a few streets away from the church, on Rizal Street, is Arabela, a charming café painted lilac, aqua and mint green. First opened in 2003, it is located at the lower level of a three-storey house that looked like it was built sometime in the 1950s. You have to watch your head as you enter as the ceiling is pretty low. This approximately 30-seater restaurant has a homey and cozy atmosphere. There are glossy magazines stacked on a table. Wooden plaques with sayings, framed prints and Monet-type paintings adorn the walls. Hanging over the tables are colored glass covered lamps. Wood and iron chairs, ottomans and wooden benches are your seating options. You may have to squeeze in, however, as elbow room at the small tables is a bit tight. The seafood marinara pasta, one of their bestsellers, has a substantial amount of seafood in it such as mussels, squid, shrimps and crab meat, which will give you a truly satisfying meal. Order the truly refreshing grape shake – it has just the right amount of sweetness for those craving that fresh grape taste. As we were about to finish our meal, grade school children still in their uniform came in to buy some cookies from the glass counter, which has an enticing display of goodies such as rainbow brownies, choco mallows, Oreos and but- terscotch squares. The bread pudding is a great alternative for those who want something to finish off their meal but don’t want to get something too sweet. Below the counter are shelves where a few imported items such as chocolates and chips and even roasted chestnuts in foil packs from China are on sale. We cannot leave Arabela without mentioning the re- stroom. You pass through an efficient-looking kitchen to get there. It is a bit tiny but it is clean and functions perfectly. What catches our eye is the way it was dec- orated with the same homey charm as the rest of the restaurant, with printed wooden plaques (one said, “Bath 25c, Soap extra), an Ilocos banga filled with water and a plastic dipper, and even a tall glass vase of red anturiums on the sink. With a full tummy, we were now ready for the main highlight of the whole trip to the town made famous by its tsinelas (slippers) industry. First up was Pia Footwear, just about a block away from Arabela. The NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 11, 2010 expat newspaper 3 The St. John the Baptist Church travel Shangri-La’s of shoppers at Badong’s, one of the oldest stores, where slippers were on sale, three Mactan Holiday for PHP 100. There were even some nuns buying several pairs, probably in time for Packages Christmas gift-giving. One thing we no- or the last quarter of 2010, active ticed, however, is that there is only very lim- families seeking a pre-Christmas ited seating for trying on their shoes. An- holiday break or simply a weekend other brand that has been around for a long Fof fun family time can take a short trip time is Socialite, also on the same street of to Cebu and enjoy the Kid’s Adventure Gat Tayaw, named after the founder of this Quest Package offered by the only re- unique town in Laguna that is located be- sort in Cebu to make it to Smart Travel tween two rivers. The Socialite and Ingrid Poll’s Top 25 Hotels and Resorts in Asia. stores are owned by the same family that On water or in the water, families can truly put up Arabela Café. Next door is Entrada enjoy the beauty of the marine ecosystem where, unlike the other stores we saw, the with daily snorkeling tours. From 6 a.m. to layout is similar to those shoe stores that 12 noon, guests are invited to feed various you find in a mall, with its large mirrors and types of colorful tropical fish at the beach. a seating area where you can comfortably Other scheduled complimentary activities try their shoes. We learned that sizes usually such as hobie cat sailing and kayaking les- go up to 9 and no bigger, which can pose a sons make for a good bonding opportunity problem for foreign visitors who may need for families. bigger-sized shoes. But having your shoes Aside from these water adventures, guests made-to-order is possible. availing of the package are also entitled to It had been drizzling on and off, and late unlimited access to the Adventure Zone for in the afternoon, the rain poured. Satisfied two children. The Adventure Zone, a three- with our shoe purchases with some pasa- level playground, with its 90-degree drop owner, Mang Pepe Monteiro, named the of their house,. Each worker is paid by each lubong shopping at the Liliw Bakeshop slide and childproof mazes is a playground store after his only daughter, Pia, and has pair they finish, and a higher compensation thrown in, it was time to head back home. dream come true for kids. Age-specific another store next door where he sells raw is given for making pairs with more compli- We did not get to visit any of the famous complimentary activities such as t-shirt materials for making slippers and shoes. cated designs. All shoes are hand made. Liliw springs (Liliw Resort is one of the painting and mosaic making are just some We learned a few things from him as we Mang Pepe is proud to say that their town better known places) where you can spend of the daily activities at the Adventure Zone chatted casually, like the fact that they use has no bystanders because of the employ- the day bathing or just simply hanging out. that enhance psychomotor and social skills leatherette as raw material as this is easier ment provided by the tsinelas industry. For But there is always a next time. For now, of kids as they interact with other partici- to manipulate and work with. Their slippers PHP 280 or roughly USD 7, one can get our short visit to this small town named, as pants. are sturdy because of the type of glue that a pair of handmade wedges that is super legend has it, after a native bird that sang Tech-savvy families will be thrilled to they use. They have a total of 13 workers – comfortable, sturdy and well designed. You “liw, liw, liw” was more than enough. We know that keeping connected on the web five starters and eight finishers – in their can’t beat that. had a really good time. while on holiday is possible at Shangri-La’s “factory”, which is just a room at the back Farther down the road, we found a crowd Mactan Resort and Spa, Cebu. The resort offers complimentary internet access in all guest rooms while various public areas also have complimentary wi-fi access. The E-zone, an indoor entertainment area with numerous arcade games, a Nintendo Wii corner and several pool tables also has several internet-enabled personal computer stations. The Kids Adventure Quest Package is available for as low as PHP 11,500++ per night, for a minimum stay of two nights. It includes an overnight stay at a superior gardenview room with daily breakfast buf- fet for two adults and two children below 12 years. Access to the resort’s Health Club, gym, sauna and unlimited use of non-mo- torized water sports facilities are also included. The Kids Adventure Quest Package is val- id until December 24, 2010. Offer is subject to space availability and prior reservations. A third person rate of PHP 2,000++ is inclusive of all package benefits. Email res- [email protected] for more Bargain tsinelas shopping Dining at Arabela information. 4 expat newspaper events NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 11, 2010 Straits Wine Hosts First Wine Fiesta t was a unique gathering of individu- cel Von den Benken of Schloss Schonborn als with a shared passion for wine. Germany, and Michael Ragg of Mischief The Straits Wine Company’s first and Mayhem. PhilippinesI Wine Fiesta kicked off early Two days of wine tasting at the Arts in this month with a wine-pairing dinner at Taguig City followed, with friends and cli- Lolo Dad’s Brasserie. Representing the ents able to spend time to talk wine, chat best of each of the visiting winemakers, and interact with all the visiting winemak- Chef Ariel Manuel created a stellar menu ers in an intimate setting. Chef Ariel made a featuring five courses, the highlight of special appearance to conduct a tapas cook- which were his signature Foie Gras and a ing demonstration, and impart great wine Wagyu Rib Eye with beef from KitaYama. pairing advice to guests. Murray McHenry, Angus Thompson, Andrew Koerner, Thomas Burgelin, Chantal Comte, Ana Maria Cruciata, Chef Ariel Manuel, Bienvenido Tan and Rachel Blue Pyrenees Luna sparkling Following on the heels of the annual Special mention and thanks go out to Martelind wine, a great favorite Singapore Straits Wine Company Wine Chad Davis and his team of students from Fiesta, nine winemakers visited Manila for Enderun Colleges, who assisted the win- the first time: Angus Thompson of Urlar emakers so professionally and enjoyed New Zealand, Andrew Koerner of Blue themselves thoroughly in the process. Ri- Pyrenees Australia, Murray McHenry of chard Teh of Garden Barn, Inc. sponsored McHenry Hohnen Australia, Chantal the Schott Zwiesel Glassware, and Mal- Comte of Chateau de la Tuilerie France, com’s and KitaYama added Wagyu sausage Ana Maria Cruciata of Val di Toro Italy, canapés to complement the wines and Lolo Thomas Burgelin and Franck Bailleul of Dads’ appetizer selection. Guests also en- Elan SAS/RCR Vignobles and Chateaux/ joyed specialty coffee from The Culinary A toast by International Wine and Food Society’s Samalens/Chateau de Breuil France, Mar- Exchange. Sonny, Rosie and Paul Dominguez Otmar Ober, IMF’s Dennis Botman and Soonhwa Yi

Sommelier of Singapore Straits Wine Company Ian Lim and marketing manager Kimberly Campbell Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala Anton Periquet and Chef Ariel Manuel at his tapas prepare Chartreuse mojitos and Mike Zalamea Jay Gokongwei cooking demonstration Trickie Loop, Joanna Duarte and Maribel Ongpin

Forbes Town Center off Burgos Circle Forbes Road Bonifacio Global City Tel # 856-48-58 [email protected] NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 11, 2010 expat newspaper 5

ByIP RICHARD Gets A. RAMOS More Teeth in Cebu recent Memorandum of Agree- the IPO launch held at the Hotel Elizabeth economy & business ment signing has signified the in Cebu. establishment of patent libraries Cebu was chosen as the first model site By CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA Aand innovation and technology support since it is considered a strategic area with offices (ITSOs) in Cebu to improve the high potential for patent activity, usage of capacity of local scientists, researchers and patent information, and commercialization entrepreneurs to access patent informa- of innovation, Most vital is the presence of AirSpeed Favors Open Skies Policy tion and take advantage of the many prac- qualified partner-institutions in Cebu to tical benefits in using the patent system. host and operate these patent libraries and Serving as lead bodies are Intellectual ITSOs on their own account in accordance AirSpeed International Corporation, destinations must be made easier to Property Office of the Philippines (IP with the terms, reference and rules pre- one of the top agents for the world’s reach. Tourists, both local and foreign, Philippines) and the World Intellectual scribed by IP Philippines. leading airlines, has expressed assent to must have easy access to these spots. Property Organization. This is held in part- This project is in line with the mandate of the present government’s stand on the Otherwise, dusty roads and precarious nership with top universities in the area, IP Philippines, which is to “work towards open skies policy. President Benigno bridges could turn them off. among them the University of the Philip- economic, technological and socio-cultural Aquino recently said that he intended A major exponent of the open skies pines Cebu College and University of San development by communicating, enabling to adopt a “pocket open skies policy” to policy is the United States of America, Carlos. and ensuring the effective use of the IP sys- liberalize the country’s aviation industry. which has entered into trade transport Leading the way for the business organiza- tem in all levels of society for the creation, This move would be a first step towards agreements with nearly 100 countries tions are the Cebu Chamber of Commerce protection, utilization and enforcement of the full implementation of the open skies, around the world. A report by the U.S. and Industry and other sector groups, with IP.” It also supports the vision of “an Intel- which, according to the chief executive, Department of State gives the following the assistance of the Department of Trade lectual Property Conscious Philippines in would boost the tourism industry and data: and Industry (DTI). a demystified, development-oriented and the economy. “Open Skies agreements have vastly “We target the IP process to cover a democratized IP System by 2020.” expanded international passenger and maximum of seven regions within the next The DTI-Cebu fully supports the estab- Flights Can Be Adjusted, Added cargo flights to and from the United three years. Not only will we witness grow- lishment of ITSOs as these patent librar- AirSpeed, a privately owned Philippine States, promoting increased travel and ing patent consciousness, but also higher ies can build on the institutional capacities company, is one of the leading operators trade, enhancing productivity, and standardization, transparency, and efficien- of universities, R&D institutions, industry of airport-to-airport and airport-to- spurring high-quality job opportunities cy among the affected firms. Waiting pe- associations, business development services door express services worldwide and and economic growth. Open Skies riod for trademarks will be cut down from providers, and consultants to provide assist- has the widest distribution in the agreements do this by eliminating the current eight months to five days,” Atty. ance in patent prosecution and teach and Philippines. It is engaged in air and sea government interference in the Andrew Ong, deputy director general of IP conduct patent searches and patent draft- freight forwarding, both inbound and commercial decisions of air carriers about Philippines, told Expat Newspaper during ing. outbound and international door-to- routes, capacity, and pricing, freeing door parcel and cargo service, as well as carriers to provide more affordable, customs brokerage. AirSpeed president convenient, and efficient air service for Rosemarie Rafael observed that with an consumers. open skies policy, flights can be adjusted “America's Open Skies policy has gone ByBest ASTRA Travel,C. ALEGRE Cargo Agents Lauded according to the demand and even more hand-in-hand with airline globalization. flights can be added. By allowing air carriers unlimited market first of its kind in the coun- sponsive Excellence Award for cargo agent access to our partners' markets and try, the recently CBL Customer (Kintetsu World Express Inc.). Good Infrastructure a Must the right to fly to all intermediate and Excellence Awards Night paid In a speech, Robert Jenkins of Crestcom President Aquino has admitted that an beyond points, Open Skies agreements tribute to the best examples of custom- which “teaches managers how to manage in open skies policy must be solidly backed provide maximum operational flexibility A up by good infrastructure. Tourism for airline alliances.” er excellence among travel and cargo more than 55 countries and 25 languages”, agents at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel. shared customer care tips about what to do Premier sponsor Contractors Bonding when something goes wrong: (1) Apolo- Limited (CBL) is the largest and oldest gize sincerely. Saying sorry is not enough. provider of credit surety and financial risk It must mean something. (2) Involve the in New Zealand. Auckland-based manag- customer in finding a solution to the prob- ing director Peter Harris, and director for lem. They may be willing to ask for less than international business Dean Finlay present- you are willing to give. (3) Fix the problem. ed the awards to the winners, among them Blaming does no good. (4) Do something Adkins Travel Agency Inc., recipient of the extra to make the customer think you are Supreme Customer Excellence Award for really concerned about the problem. (5) travel agent, and STAMM International Follow up. Make sure they are happy with Inc., which nabbed the Supreme Customer the service. (6) Be confident enough to ask Excellence Award for cargo agent. for repeat business. It’s a very positive way Other major awards included the Most to come back to a customer who had a prob- Professional Customer Excellence Award lem. for travel agent, (AAA Travel Service Inc.), “There will always be someone who will Most Professional Customer Excellence offer a cheaper price,” Harris remarked, Award for cargo agent (Asia Pacific Ex- “but it’s customer excellence that sets your press), Most Customer Friendly Excel- business apart. In the mind of your custom- lence Award for travel agent (American ers, it remains an enduring memory long Express-Adventure International Tours after they’ve forgotten what the price was. Inc.), Most Customer Friendly Excellence Your customer can even become your sales- Award for cargo agent (Explorer Freight man. If you do business with customer ex- Corp.), Most Customer Responsive Excel- cellence, you will survive the challenges of lence Award for travel agent (Anscor Casto the industry and you will prosper.” Travel Corp), and Most Customer Re- news NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 11, 2010 cent shelving of its “Pilipinas Kay Ganda” expatexpat brand concept claiming it “will continue its expatn e w s p a p e r search for an acceptable brand through a The Philippines’ forum for international readers since 1981 CompiledAgency by RICHARD News A. RAMOS, JAHZEEL Bits ABIHAIL G. CRUZ broad based consultation.” and TIMOTHY JAY IBAY Murray Hertz Visayan School Captures IHL Moot Editorial & Publishing Consultant Immigration Cracks Down on Singa- a speedboat from Sabah, Malaysia. Court Crown pore-Bound Illegals Tourism Leader Shrugs Off Advisories The Silliman University law team out- Butch C. Bonsol The Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) intensi- “There are still a lot of tourism potentials shined 13 other law schools to emerge as President & Managing Director fied campaign prevented the departure of in the country despite warnings com- champions in a recent national moot court a large number of undocumented overseas ing from the United States, Japan, Great competition on international humanitar- Elga D. Reyes Filipino workers in the past weeks, many Britain, and other First World countries,” ian law (IHL) at the Supreme Court en Editor of them bound for Singapore. Philippine Bobby Joseph, president of the National banc session hall. They were adjudged as Embassy in Singapore Charge d’ Affaires Association of Independent Travel Agen- best team by a panel of judges led by As- Carmencita H. Acosta Nathaniel Imperial said that being a free cies (NAITAS), declared during a weekly sociate Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno and Jahzeel Abihail G. Cruz port, Singapore is a regular destination media forum in Cebu. lawyer Harry Roque. Associate Editors and transshipment point of Filipino vic- At the same time, he wondered out loud The team will be sent to the regional finals tims of illegal recruiters and prostitution why such places as London and New York in Hong Kong in 2011. Last year, the win- Timothy Jay Ibay rings preying on young women. were never issued travel advisories when ning team from Ateneo de Manila Univer- Richard A. Ramos (Cebu) Meanwhile, the BI also foiled another more serious incidents occurred there. sity ranked as one of the top five prosecu- Writers/Reporters human trafficking attempt in Zamboanga As a recourse, Joseph declared that travel tion teams in the Hong Kong finals. City, arresting six Indian nationals who at- advisories be ignored since the deciding The International Committee of the Red Leah Egamino-Palaña tempted to enter the country without visas factor should be if the tourist had a pleas- Cross, Philippine Red Cross, Philippine Advertising via the southern backdoor. BI intelligence ant experience in the Philippines or not. Association of Law Schools and the Su- chief Faizal Hussin said the Indians ear- In related news, the Department of preme Court of the Philippines organized Dominic De Vera lier traveled to Bongao, Tawi-Tawi aboard Tourism released a statement on the re- the annual event. Classified Ads

Eleanore Fern B. Pagaduan Croc Attack: Threats to the Native…from page 1 escape. They are not kept in cages or within Lay-out Artist Red List. With only less than 100 adult Weerd and Mabuwaya honestly admitted crocodiles left in select areas of the archi- to not knowing the repercussions of the fenced areas.” pelago, “[this unique animal] is the rarest calamity on the crocodiles. She revealed She continued, “Crocodiles could possibly Our office address: have died as a result of very strong currents Lower Ground Floor, Legaspi Towers 100 crocodile on the planet,” said van Weerd. instead that there have been rumors in the 148 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village, media of the crocodiles escaping their sanc- in rivers or collapsing river banks. River Makati City Typhoons and Other Dangers tuary in Divilacan. She stated that this is banks in San Mariano are heavily eroded as Our telephone numbers: While it is obvious that typhoon Juan se- “not based on facts. Philippine crocodiles a result of illegal logging and agriculture.” (+632) 840-2996 or (+632) 812-0987; verely affected the residents of Isabela, van in Isabela live in the wild and hence cannot And as a result of other human-induced Fax (+632) 840-2988 habitat loss, the Philippine crocodile, like You can also reach us at: so many of the country’s biodiversity, faces [email protected] Summit Tells Drivers… from page 1 grave threats to its existence. There have [email protected] Jejomar Binay rode one en route to his in- He added plans to charge fees for travers- also been crocodile killings by some locals. and for sales and advertising: auguration last June, are built brand new for ing EDSA as a “non-attainment area” – one [email protected] PHP 850,000 each and take three weeks whose air pollutant limit has been met – and Community Action and Awareness Cebu Mailing Address: to assemble. There are currently around for building infrastructure for the recharg- The award-winning Mabuwaya, with its MJ. Cuenco Avenue cor. C. Mina St., Mabolo, 30 such eJeepneys in operation in Metro ing of electric vehicles as added initiatives. team of ten Filipino and Dutch conser- Cebu City vationists and scientists plus students, has Telefax: (+632) 412-8000 Manila with a few more scattered in the “Ultimately [the shift to electric vehicles] provinces, notably in Vigan, Ilocos Sur and will be private-sector-led, he said. implemented a communication, educa- Puerto Princesa, Palawan. “We are study- The Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit tion and public awareness-raising program ing now the application for electric buses, was organized in partnership with WWF- among the communities. San Mariano, in Statements, views and opinions expressed by the fact, declared village and municipal croco- writers, contributors, and advertisers are their but we are still on the drawing board for Philippines. own and do not necessarily represent those of that, but basically it’s the same dile sanctuaries. Divilacan did the same for the publisher or the management. design.” the lake in the village of Dicatian, releas- The publisher assumes no responsibility for Department of Environment ing 50 captive-bred Philippine crocodiles unsolicited material. and Natural Resources Secretary to establish a second viable wild population Ramon Paje, also present at the in Isabela. Village officials have also been summit, seconded the need for trained in environmental law enforcement Check out cleaner land vehicles, especially and agroforestry. in Metro Manila where air pol- Said van Weerd, “We believe that with Expat Online lutants are thrice the acceptable proper conservation, there is a place and www.expatphilippines.wordpress.com amount. He cited a USD 280 future for [the Philippine crocodile] in million loan from the Asian De- Isabela, and at the same time for the peo- And follow us on twitter @expatnewspaper. velopment Bank for a planned ple of Isabela who would benefit from the Let us know what you think about the issues rollout of 20,000 electric tricy- environmental services that nature offers… affecting the expat community. Running on electricity: a converted Knowledge and awareness are key here.” We want to hear from you! cles by mid-2011. 1970 Toyota Corolla

Public Works Sec Calls for “Culture Shift” By TIMOTHY JAY IBAY "It cannot be business as usual," ing the budget through "prudent and objec- And this mission to implement a "shift in of all toll road projects to be able to create pronounced sternly by Department of Pub- tive selection of projects". He clarified that culture" is where DPWH's policy reforms more opportunities for the private sector. lic Works and Highways (DPWH) Secre- the source of leakage doesn't start when the are centered on. Along with transparency, tary Rogelio Singson to those both in and process of bidding begins; it starts when accountability and appropriate project The Road to 2016 conducting business with the department, projects are chosen. selection, the Department also hopes to According to the DPWH's report for the while speaking in Management Asso- tighten quality control and assurance in first 100 days under the Aquino administra- ciation of the Philippines' (MAP) general The Mission project implementation. The DPWH cur- tion, as of 2009, the national road network membership meeting. Calling to attention It's quite daunting to oversee the trans- rently has several NGOs that help monitor length is 29,899 kilometers, classified into the Department's institutional policy re- formation of an institution that has been its actions. National Arterial Road (NAR, with 15,731 forms of adhering to full transparency and plagued by sketchy deals and unfinished Not straying from President Aquino's kilometers) and National Secondary Road accountability, he also noted that informa- projects that have contractors allegedly call for public private partnerships (PPP), (NSR, with 14,168 kilometers). tion on all projects are now made available pocketing at least PHP 4 billion per project. Singson likewise invited the business com- The target is to pave 100 percent of the and regularly updated through their web- There needs to be a radical change in culture munity to engage with the DPWH's PPP NAR by 2016. As of 2009, 86 percent has site, while concerns and complaints may be and in the values of its employees. Singson initiatives, which include projects such as been paved, leaving 2,206 kilometers left to voiced through hotlines and text lines. even half-kidded during the MAP talk, the NLEx-SLEx Link Expressway, C5/ be paved and 3,626 more to rehabilitate. For In line with this, Singson emphasized that when he first got the post, he had the FTI/Skyway Connector and Phase II of NSRs, 2009 has 63 percent already paved, that it is imperative that the Department impression that the DPWH seemed to the NAIA Expressway to name a few. The and to reach the 2016 target of 93 percent commits to the "right projects, for the right have focused on the business of contracting DPWH hopes to level the playing field for will entail paving 2,040 kilometers and the price, and at the right quality" by optimiz- rather than engineering. prospective bidders in the public tender rehabilitation of 2,212 more. NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 11, 2010 business expat newspaper 7 New PRA Head to Upgrade Offerings By HANNAH VARILLA ith the Department of Tour- of foreign investments through tourism. of retirement facility and community de- mention during the latter’s SONA that ism (DOT) setting its targets The agency’s main retirement product velopers. Thus, every town and city will get “key infrastructure will be placed in order to accomplish more invest- allows multiple entry and indefinite stay. A a page on the website where each can pitch to support the development of the tour- Wments and the influx of foreign capital, the low deposit of USD 20,000 will be required for itself as a retirement destination. ism sector,” adding that his department is Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) and kept in a government bank on a lockout currently collaborating with offices such has been building its own mechanisms to basis to serve as collateral for any future un- Retirement and Tourism as the Department of Transportation and deepen its vision, particularly in making met obligations of the retiree. This package In a keynote speech at the 36th Philippine Communications (DOTC) and the De- the Philippines a globally competitive and will cover early (ages 35 to 49) and normal Business Conference and Exposition last partment of Public Works and Highways preferred retirement destination in Asia. retirement (50 and above) markets. October, Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim (DPWH) on the matter. Shares new PRA general manager Ve- The PRA’s “Retirement Areas Deemed noted that by the end of President Aquino’s Lim also cited that efforts to upgrade the redigno Atienza, his new management un- as Retiree-Friendly” (RADAR), mean- term, the tourism sector should be raking quality of tourism products are underway. der PRA will build upon the quality of “re- while, will provide a profile of localities on in around USD 4.6 billion, contributing at A target strategy will be to provide visitors tiree-friendly” products, aligning with the four levels: overall, regional, provincial, and least 6.35 percent to the country’s GDP. with “international class service” that will vision of the DOT in building the progress town or city. These will act as a retiree’s radar He also reiterated President Aquino’s encourage repeat visits.

The Big Bank that Produced an Offspring By CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA e have all heard about bank street vendors and such like. They can de- been convinced to deposit at BanKO, with Globe BanKO, people at the base of the mergers and bank bankruptcies. posit even one peso without need of going interest of course, in order to create a bank pyramid can now have affordable access They have become fashionable physically to the bank location. All they for the less fortunate. to microcredit, microsavings and microin- Wfor the last decades, thanks to a squirm- need is to make use of their cellphone, but During the bank’s recent launch, Ayala surance through cellphone banking.” He ing economy the world over. But whoever with a SIM card that is exclusively Globe, Corporation chairman and CEO Jaime added that to help these people understand heard of a bank producing an offspring? and make the transaction. Zobel de Ayala explained that the bank’s basic money management and how they No, this is not a matter of a bank replicat- The poor now have a bank where their one primary aim “is financial inclusion for the can benefit from these products, the new ing itself in robotic fashion. We are talking peso is acceptable. And this is made pos- underprivileged segment of society through bank has also embarked on financial educa- here of a big bank that indeed produced an sible by the big-time depositors who have the use of mobile technology. With BPI tion caravans within communities. offspring, or plainly stated, of a megabank that created a small bank. The father bank is the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and its offspring has been given the name BPI Globe BanKO. Yes, the letters K and O are in uppercase. The baby bank has two depositories, as it were: one for the big bucks and the other for the penny- wise. We need not do a profil- ing of the big bucks, for after all, it is the penny-wise for whom the bank was created. BanKO operates somewhat like a rural bank. It is meant for the small entrepreneurs such as farmers, fishermen,

Continental Casts Spell on Travel Agency

Partners It was a spellbinding night for representatives from several travel agencies, thanks to Continental Airlines’ block screening of Harry Potter and the Deathly Halllows: Part 1 at Robinson’s Place Manila. The crowd watched with stunned silence and rolled with the occasional tension- breaker as the penultimate film in the hit franchise un- folded onscreen. Based on the equally popular book by British author J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 chronicles the final phase in the series-long struggle between Harry, aided by friends Ron and Hermi- one, and nemesis Voldemort, but with a cliffhanger – fans will have to hold out for the conclusion in Part 2 next July. The event served as the airline’s thank-you to its most loyal agencies for yet another year of fruitful partnership. 8 expat newspaper dining NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 11, 2010

PerfectingBy ASTRA C. ALEGRE Their Bistro Best EasyText and photo byComfort TIMOTHY JAY IBAY at L’entrecôte Buffalo Crab Claws t took them almost two years to find ou'd think that a lifelong chef with The wine list, being relatively short, keeps the perfect bun for their burgers, chef as vast an experience in the industry in stead with how straightforward every- Jun Jun de Ocampo of Blackwood as Chef Martin Kaspar, one who's thing else is. Offers Chef Martin, "We also Bistro at McKinley Hill in Taguig City honed his craft in cities such as Zurich, have here simple and good wines. We serve relates.I They found it only a week before Y Sydney and Manila, would come out with wines, which go very well with the steak opening. What makes the bun special? an intricately refined restaurant to call his and the famous secret herb butter sauce. “We put truffle butter, which gives ita own. At least I did, and I thought wrong. We have very good choices from Australia, creamy, buttery flavor with the essence of On the contrary, the brainchild of Chef France, Spain, Switzerland and Argentina." truffle,” he explains. “We grill only the in- Martin, L'entrecôte over at Burgos Circle He offers as a tip the Shiraz, his personal side so that when you bite into the bread, in Global City, is anything but intricate. favorite, made from 100-year-old vines it is soft on the outside but crunchy in- "It's just good comfort food, straightfor- from Chateau Tanunda in Barossa Valley, side. It’s a totally different sensation.” ward. We have no dress code and we would Australia. There’s no mayonnaise or ketchup on the use the alimasag (blue crab), which is a lot like you to feel like you're eating in Paris Perhaps the easiness of their fare is exactly burger. What you get is the pure taste of sweeter than the alimango (mud crab),” says because of good food, a glass of wine, the where L'entrecôte's charm lies. Leave your freshly ground meat seasoned with salt and Chef Jun Jun. “We have a crab cake Ben- ambiance, the music and a very friendly pretensions at the door, and just prepare to pepper. One of their diners gave them the edict, which is a tribute to the classic eggs 'French’ service," he succinctly describes sit down to downright good food. No ifs, idea to take the veggies out of the bun where Benedict.” Imagine crisp fried crab cakes the experience that awaits. buts and fuss. Enter, relax and enjoy: that's it tended to wilt and serve it as a salad on the with poached eggs topped with hollandaise I hadn't spoken to the man previous to the three-course experience of L'entrecôte side instead. They use a special type of let- sauce served on a bed of creamed spinach. my dining at L'entrecôte (and admittedly fare. tuce called “salanova”, which is sweeter and The Buffalo Crab Claws happens to be the had to Google what the name even meant: more vibrant, mixed with some tomatoes number one bestseller. A family once came steak), thus I made my way with a mind free Spot-on comfort food and roasted onions. to the restaurant and the kids were enjoying of expectations and an empty stomach. As The fries are tossed in truffle butter then the Buffalo wings sauce on the crab claws I was sat down by cordial, smiling faces, I coated with sea salt, which is flavored with so much they were practically “spooning it”. scoped L'entrecôte's simple set-up and let spices. “After all these years of using truffle, The chef reveals, “There’s no secret about the soothing French music just ease me it’s only now that I’ve developed the skill it. I make sure I use only real, original hot down as I awaited my meal. How I wanted to use it properly,” says Chef Jun Jun, who sauce and high quality butter.” my steak done was all I had to think of, and took up training at the Culinary Institute “People say our food tastes different, not everything else I just had to savor. And of America. like in other restaurants. When we explain savor it I did, the tender 7-ounce US sir- Blackwood Bistro is co-owned by the that everything is done from scratch, then loin steak dressed in Chef Martin's "super chef and his friends and managing partners they understand why they can taste the secret" butter sauce pampering my palate Nicky Camcam and Bobby Eduardo. The natural flavor of the food,” Chef Jun Jun with ease. It didn't hurt that they had ut- idea of the bistro started with Nicky and remarks. “If it’s a fish dish, for example, we terly fresh French fries-all-I-want as a side Chef Jun Jun; they then invited Bobby, who use real fish stock. We want a bistro that dish. And it was just pure joy that the chef's happens to be the country’s top exporter of practices the true essence of bistro cooking butter sauce complimented the fries, which crab to the US, to join them. – that is, making everything from scratch he proudly shares does not come from the “We use only fresh crab, not frozen. We and using what is readily available.” frozen variant, perfectly well.

Around the World with Chef Roger By CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA uess what the dessert was? Cherry ule to whip up delicious dishes. So does my life. He was very supportive of my decision. compote with black pepper infu- mother who works as an interior decora- All of them were. Of course, they missed me sion yogurt! tor. I remember that as a boy of five I began when my career took me to foreign lands, but G Not the usual in desserts, you will likely say. watching them and my grandaunt intently they were happy that I was succeeding in my Well, the person who concocted it is neither at work in our kitchen. I was so fascinated chosen profession. And certainly, wherever the usual in chefs. Let him change from his by the way the food was being prepared and I am working, I see to it that I visit them chef ’s uniform into coat and tie, and you will served. When I was a little bit older, every- every year.” envisage a Hollywood star recently arrived body would ask me to help in the cooking. Roger has been to many places in the world. in Manila. And whenever we ate in restaurants, I would The first time was when, at the age of 15, his Roger Perez Gonzalez of Mexico is the examine the plate before me and after tasting father enrolled him in a secondary school in Manila Pavilion Hotel’s new executive chef. it try to guess the ingredients that went into the United States. After that, he broadened He brings with him international experience it. My family considers cooking as an art. I his experience in the culinary world through and expertise, plus imagination into the gas- guess it is because all of us are artists. When a number of travel and work assignments in tronomic confines of the hotel. we are no longer busy we launch into paint- Europe, the United States, Caribbean Is- He comes from a family composed of his ing – each of us with our own canvas.” lands, his own Mexico, the Middle East and parents, a sister and a grandaunt, and all of How did Roger’s family react when he Asia. Prior to his Manila posting, Roger was them loved to cook all kinds of Mexican announced his decision to study to become the executive chef of a luxury hotel in the dishes. Says Roger, “My father is an engineer a chef? “My father believes in giving his chil- Netherlands Antilles. but he takes time out from his busy sched- dren the freedom to chart their own future in NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 11, 2010 people expat newspaper 9

TextTropical and photos by ANDREW HATFIELD Confinement, Badminton Overdose

When the areas around our clinics become flooded (as they are never quite feel like we can And this lets us get out into the field medical team in doing whatever we can and now in the rainy season) we often only have boat access make an honest, close con- with the medics. We have a great resource maintaining our relationships in the field, nection with anyone outside in our Field Medical Advocates (FiMAs). it’s time to head back to the compound. of work. FiMAs are locals in the community or When work is wrapped up, we are allowed I’m not complaining about IDP camps that keep an eye on population our only other escape from the barbed-wire the security guidelines in trends, illnesses – anything in order to help confines of our home and office: badmin- place – they are there for our us understand the community we serve and ton. Badminton is serious stuff in Cotabato safety and based on immense help the community understand what we City, so serious I recently watched in horror amounts of data. I’m not sec- can provide and how to take advantage of it (and a bit of delight) as an ACF colleague ond-guessing the necessity fully. FiMAs will also be our first resource of mine buried his head into a cement wall of the rules we have in place. whenever possible to locate skilled workers chasing a shuttlecock I hit just out of his But they do make the experi- who can help us construct the needed facili- reach. It’s fiercely competitive. Really. Bad- ence here quite isolated. The ties. We often use professional contractors, minton. No joke. only time we get out of the but if we can find quality workers within the It may seem silly, but when surrounded city is to work in the field. camps, this is always our first choice. by lush green vegetation, brilliant skies A common day in the field As a loggie in Mindanao, this is when and lovely coasts you can’t take advantage starts with security checks. I really feel like I can get out, make con- of, when living on an island home to such We check with our network tact with the community and feel a more an interesting divergent of the majority of of contacts to see what the personal hand in our activities. Of course, I Philippine culture, when being crowded situation is looking like in our work with several national staff colleagues about by so much humanity yet you can’t area of operation. Depending with whom I’ve made great, close relation- walk out your gate and interact with it in a on the responses we get, our ships. But the relationships one can make casual, free way...well, when that happens, movements are either given when isolated in a sterile, professional en- badminton becomes serious stuff. And, per- the green light or cancelled. vironment are quite different than the ones haps, the only way to take the edge off the Cancelling isn’t always due you can make when sitting in the middle of work we’re all here doing. to an actual perceived dan- a Maguindanao community, shaking hands Andrew Hatfield works with Médecins ger – it could simply be that and making plans for something that will Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) the area is too flooded to visit hopefully be to the long term benefit of eve- in Mindanao. He is one example of the many indanao is, without a doubt, one or that we were unable to get ryone there. humanitarians featured in the new issue of of the most aggressively attrac- sufficient responses. After setting up plans for a project, check- Expat Travel & Lifestyle magazine. Grab a tive places I have ever visited. Assuming the green light is given, our ing on the progress of another, assisting the copy now from your favorite bookstore. MThe natural beauty is overwhelming – the teams load up for the day. At the current dense green and burning sunsets choke out stage in our project, our medical teams are everything else. Even in the heart of the providing malnutrition treatment, women’s city, the sense that the land is vibrantly alive health care and mental health care. Emer- is inescapable. It’s hard for anyone arriving gency medical care is also within our scope here for the first time to understand how a of practice, but as violence in Mindanao is place so stunningly gorgeous, so abundant on the decline and many IDPs (internally with natural resources and so full of life displaced persons) are returning home, it could also be so violent and full of conflict. doesn’t comprise a major portion of our So why will I always associate my experi- current activities. ence here with learning how to play bad- As the logistician, my job is, simply put, to minton? First things first: life in Mindanao provide the project with anything it might for a humanitarian worker is full of para- need to make it ‘go’. This includes supply, doxes. As with many areas of humanitarian maintenance of structures or facilities, back involvement, one’s mission is focused on up for security, transport, etc. It gets more peace and providing care, but only exists interesting when we find infrastructure within the context of conflict and violence. lacking in the field. If, for example, we see But the paradox that is felt more directly, that one of our mobile clinics has a dirty, and more heavily, by most of the expats stagnant water point serving as a breed- down here is that while we are in a cultur- ing ground for mosquitoes and defecation ally unique area, an area which must be full ground for livestock, we can take steps to of stories and characters, an area which provide sanitary wash structures. Shelters, undoubtedly offers endless opportunities waste management facilities, tools to access for the adventurous traveler, most of us are water and training for proper usage – these confined to our compounds. We are under are all things the logistic department might A water point we recently built in a flooded area to create a more sanitary environment for the population to strict security protocols when we leave and provide. find drinking water, wash and bathe 10 expatexpat newspaper newspaper NOVEMBERNOVEMBER 28 28-DECEMBER - DECEMBER 11, 2010 NOVEMBER 28-DECEMBER 11, 2010 expat newspaper 11 REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE SERVICES SERVICES SERVICES SERVICES SERVICES TRY TAGALOG IT’S FUN...

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(02) 812 0987, 840 2996 | Fax (02) 840 2988 Safe & courteous drivers 26 Issues at Php3,000.00 (1 year subscription) 26 Issues at $125.00 (1 year subscription) Email Address: [email protected] 393-6315/ 0920-2719698 12 expat newspaper feature NOVEMBER 28FEBRUARY - DECEMBER 7 - 20,11, 2010 sports By TIMOTHY JAY IBAY Wow, Spain! By CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA he Spaniards at present are enthusi- Granada to be the exotic place, consider- Philippine Sports’ Leading Problem astically into a promo blitz for their ing its Moorish influence. There are those The 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou in just a few years under the leadership kingdom, one of the few remain- who opt for Valencia, the third largest city has been a huge success…for host coun- of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, ing kingdoms in Europe (the others being in Spain. Not to be ignored are the other top try China, and usual suspects South the national team has made great strides, T Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Nor- cities such as Seville, Malaga, Salamanca, Korea and Japan at least. For the sport- even earning general respect despite way, Sweden and the United Kingdom). Valencia, Cadiz and Cordova. Choices have loving country that is the Philippines, bowing out to South Korea in the quar- Spain is now one of the world’s top tour- to be made beforehand if one’s traveling though, it has been largely disappoint- terfinals of this Asiad. ist destinations with visitors coming main- budget is limited. ing for the most part, currently ranking A commended regional president ly from Europe. Interestingly, tourism in All types of hotels abound in Spain, super 19th (as of writing) with a pitiful medal among the Philippines’ 38 NSAs is Tony Spain first developed during the time when deluxe, deluxe, superior first class, first class tally of two golds, two silvers, and eight Candelaria, the Region 1 president of the country was not a monarchy but a dic- and tourist class among them. Hotel rat- bronzes. To put that in perspective, Chi- wushu, who’s developed local talents in tatorship (1939-75) under Generalissimo ings combine two elements: quality of guest na has 172 gold medals and 350 medals Baguio into wushu experts and event Francisco Franco. During the last years accommodations, or room size and quality in total, South Korea which ranks second medalists. Boxing has also found the of Franco’s rule, Spain’s beaches became a of furnishing; and extent of hotel facilities, has a balanced medal diet of 70 golds, 59 Philippines consistently contending and favorite summer attraction for the French, which means number and size of public silvers, and 81 bronzes. Vietnam has yet medaling over the years, this is also di- Britons, Germans, Danes, Norwegians and rooms and meeting facilities. to bag a gold medal but has more than rectly pointed to the focused leadership Swedes. Since then, and well into the re- Considering that individual tourists are doubled the Philippines’ total medal tally of the sport. stored monarchy, the number of European there to explore Spain and not to remain in with 26. Singapore with a population of But the good are greatly outnumbered tourists has risen steadily. their rooms watching TV, it would be fool- less than 5 million ranks five spots higher by the bad. Another spat concerns the With the slogan, “I Need Spain”, repre- hardy for them to check in at hotels where than the Philippines. I suppose you get Philippine diving team. The Philippine sentatives from the Asia branch of the Na- there are exquisite pieces of furniture or the point. But what I don’t get is, why is Aquatic Sports Association (PASA) tional Tourist Office of Spain recently came large public rooms and extensive meeting a country so passionate about its athletic president has said that Filipino divers over to the Philippines to make a sales pitch facilities. And of course, there are the quaint triumphs doing so poorly in what is tan- weren’t allowed to train in China prior using the time-old come-ons such as the inns for those who want to save more on tamount to the Olympics of Asia? to the Asian Games because China beautiful tourist destinations and festivals expenses. “closed its doors” to Philippine divers in galore. Problem of Leadership, Not Athletes 2009 and 2010, allegedly because of the Not to be outdone was the Journalists here and abroad have former PSC chairman’s non-payment An exquisite fountain Spanish-run, Philippine-based in Barcelona claimed that mediocrity is a reflection of dues for training sessions. The former Fuego Hotels and Properties that that national sports associations (NSAs) chairman has denied the allegations and held its annual “Flavors of Spain” are not being professionally run. responded by questioning the PASA festivity showcasing mainly Looking no further than the Philip- president’s duties at the games. Glad to the food products of Spain. pines beloved game of basketball, the see they’re getting along. Among the exhibitors were Bar- stagnancy that clouded over the national The results speak for themselves, and cino Gourmet, Terry’s Gourmet- program for so long was mainly due to the problem is deep-seated. I suppose Wine Selection, Heno de Pravia the squabbles of the Basketball Associa- when you can’t even broadcast the games, and SYSU International. Olive tion of the Philippines and the Philip- it shows just how much you care. oil, Spanish wine, paprika and pine Sports Commission (PSC). Now, saffron are only a few of the top ingredients of Spanish food. Spain has some of the most beautiful cities in Europe The capital city of Madrid, with its fantastic Prado Museum as well as the Royal Palace, is certainly a tourist priority, although many believe that Barcelona is the more exciting city replete with festivals of ancient origin. Still others find

By ASTRA C. ALEGRE Musicranz Shubert’s by “Ave Maria” Tal played taught them how to yodel! using a musical saw? If you are “Springtime Is Here” opened the con- Tal Kravitz, why not? The piece is cert using the adongo, an instrument from Fonly but one of the many unique piec- Tanzania made of a wooden resonance box es in the Israeli artist’s vast repertoire. and nails. The audience listened in awe as It was a full house at CCP’s Little Theater Tal played the theremin, invented in Russia during Tal’s “Sounds I Have Gathered” in 1919. It is an instrument played without concert, his third time here in the Philip- being touched, as sounds are produced by pines. “The Philippines is my favorite place the reaction of an electromagnetic field to to perform,” Tal, dressed in a barong Taga- the person’s body. While wearing a kilt, he log, shared during his performance. Tal also played the song “Scotland” using what else visited other provinces in the country such but a bagpipe. He also tried his hand, or as Negros and Tarlac. rather, his nose in playing the kaleleng or the Tal Kravitz was born in a kibbutz and has nose flute native to Kalinga in the northern been playing music since he was five years Philippines. old; he is now 36. Israel Ambassador to the Special guest performer Aiza Seguerra Philippines Zvi Vapni described Tal as a sang a duet with Tal, singing her own hit true troubadour. The musician travels all “Pagdating ng Panahon”. She also serenad- over the world, learning the locals’ instru- ed him with an English song, after which ments and music. Tal commented, “With a voice like that, the The crowd watched, enthralled and gates of heaven will open.” amazed by his music. Tal kept the audience Tal considers the Philippines his sec- amused and entertained as he shared the ond home. In a fitting tribute, he ended story of the people of Israel and his own the concert by singing and playing on the personal story. He went through multiple guitar Freddie Aguliar’s “Anak” in Filipino “costume changes” throughout the show. It and “Dahil Sa ‘Yo” in three languages: in was a very interactive concert as well, as Tal the original Filipino, in Hebrew as it was encouraged the audience to clap to the beat translated by a fellow musician friend, and of the music. The audience even became in English. part of his “orchestra” as he called on the “Invest in music,” Tal muses, “because it people sitting in the front row to come up will bring peace to the world. When weap- on stage, grab a musical instrument and ac- ons turn to instruments, it will bring peace company him in a few of his songs. He even and love.” JANUARYNOVEMBER 24 28 - FEBRUARY - DECEMBER 6, 201011, 2010 expat newspaper 13

A Successful GM’s Night in Cebu A successful gathering of top executives from ten Marco Polo properties in China, Hongkong and the Philippines recently took place as the Marco Polo Hotels (MPH) recently held its Annual General Managers (GM) Conference at the Marco Polo Plaza Cebu (MPPC), the only five-star hotel in Cebu City. Led by the indefatigable chairman Alfred Ty and hardworking MPPC general manager Hans Hauri, the business event was highlighted with the presentation of the MPH Awards for 2009 awarded by MPH president Steve Kleinschmidt and vice president of marketing and business development Simon Pearson during a gala dinner at the Grand Ballroom. Congratulations!

Left to right: Marco Polo Parkside general manager Stanley Lau (Marco Polo Davao GM 2009), Steve Kleinschmidt and Marco Polo Davao general manager Nigel Fisher; Marco Polo Hotels project development vice president Andre Scholl and president Steve Kleinschmidt with hardworking Marco Polo Plaza Cebu general manager Hans Hauri; Indefatigable MPPC chairman Alfred Ty; MPPC resident manager Julie Najar with Simon Pearson and Marco Polo Wuhan resident manager Millie Tsui A Very Merry Christmas in A Remarkable Milestone for Crosswinds Vimana With Santa Claus on sleigh and soothing Christmas carols, it was indeed a fantastic way to Premier developer Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) led by president and chief jumpstart the holiday season at the Swiss-inspired community of Crosswinds in Tagaytay. operating officer Frederick Go recently celebrated the topping off ceremony of its Vimana Led by Brittany Corporation chief operating officer Camille Villar, the neighborhood Verde Residences Building A at St. Martin Street, Valle Verde, Pasig. The exclusive 85-unit started the festive time of the year by opening the Christmas Store that offers unique items residential development, offers future residents the best of urban living and the freedom that cannot be found elsewhere. What a way to start the holidays! to customize their own space. For information, call 397-0101, 636-0888, 0922-8380888, or visit www.robinsonsresidences.com.

Brittany Corporation chief operating officer Camille Villar, Vista Land chief executive officer Jing Serrano, engineer Juvi Geneveo, Adrian Chua, Ging Bautista, Ferdie Ferdie Otadoy and Ging Bautista with the Las Piñas Boys Otadoy and Jessica Villamer feeling the Christmas vibe Choir singing Christmas carols in the background as artificial snow falls all over the lovely community

Leading the topping off ceremony of Vimana Verde Residences Building A are (from left) Constech Management Group Inc. vice president engineer Benjamin Cabral, RLC senior project engineer Roy Cayabyab and architectural The picturesque hills of Tagaytay make for a perfect coordinator architect Ramon dela Peña with Constech Management Group Inc. president engineer Arthur getaway from the hustle and bustle of life in the Spreading the holiday cheer at the enchanting Swiss- Carlos, Metro Stonerich Corporation president engineer Ibrahim Nuño, RLC vice president Christopher Metropolis. Living a life in the charming Crosswinds Narciso, EDD Architectural Services architect Edgardo Daza, RLC business development department manager inspired community of Crosswinds is Robert Herrera community is another magical story as it transports dressed as Santa Claus while the Las Piñas Boys Choir Edward Thomas Bernas, Metro Stonerich Corporation senior vice president engineer Maximillian Quintos and your senses to a relaxing and serene life amidst the Constech Management Group Inc. project manager architect Randy Cunanan sings classic Christmas carols beautiful surroundings and cool weather 14 expat newspaper feature NOVEMBER 28FEBRUARY - DECEMBER 7 - 20,11, 2010 Aussie Animation: Also for Adults By JAHZEEL ABIHAIL G. CRUZ “Animated films aren’t just for physical presence. the best friends are those that appreciate children,” Australian Ambassador Rod Theirs is a relationship highly valued. what’s inside. Smith astutely pointed out as an introduc- When Max stops writing to Mary due to Aussie animation has a long and rich tion to the filmMary and Max. Indeed, its anxiety attacks from topics broached in her history, and most recently an Academy rundown of topics is breathless and mature: letters (among them, love), he resumes soon Award-recognized one, with numerous “friendship, autism, taxidermy, psychiatry, enough. When Max erupts in fury over shorts nominated and one feature-length alcoholism, where babies come from, obes- Mary’s attempts to make a case study out film (Happy Feet in 2006) capturing the ity, kleptomania, sexual difference, trust, of him in a book, she attempts suicide. All coveted Oscar. Featuring the voices of copulating dogs, religious difference and the while, each letter sent by one is most an- Philip Seymour Hoffman, Toni Collette, agoraphobia.” ticipated by the other, and each exchange is Barry Humphries and Eric Bana, Mary and The time and effort put into such works is earnest, often witty, and inclusive of a vari- Max is among the offerings at the 8th Aus- no child’s play, either. By the numbers, the ation of chocolate. tralian Film Festival from November 26 to film required the employment of 133 sets, To avoid spoilers, suffice it to say that the 28 in Makati. It drops in on Davao City 475 miniature props, 70 kilos of plasticine, ending is bittersweet. What can be said for from November 30 to December 5. Mary prepares a letter for Max 632 rubber molds and 174 tailor-made cos- sure is that Mary and Max reiterates how tumes, to name a few. Construction manager Shaun Patten, who flew in to conduct master classes in two universities here, said Esteban School Enters New Phase as Australian Int’l School everything was laboriously handmade “in a tarting as a pre-school for 12 chil- portunity to graduate with an Australian them to succeed in further studies locally shell of a warehouse.” dren on a porch in Parañaque City, High School diploma, thus, giving them or abroad.” Upon completion of the 12th The result: a film worthy of Official Selec- the Eleanor Esteban Learning the clear advantage in applying at any uni- grade, students can take the Australian Na- tion and Opening Night Film status at last Center was founded by Eleanor Esteban versity around the world. tional Exam at Australian IS, which can year’s Sundance Film Festival, among other S in 1964 as one of the first pre-schools in “What has been accepted is no longer at earn them an internationally recognized di- accolades. And why not? Despite being set the Philippines. Eleanor was a teacher par with international standards in educa- ploma and enable them to enter any school in a time passed, the title characters in Mary with the American School (presently In- tion,” said David Esteban, the school’s di- system in the world. and Max explore a theme most apt in to- ternational School Manila), who started rector for marketing and communications. Despite the upgraded status, David day’s world: finding care and familiarity and the school to become the first teacher of “In this day of rapid advances in learning pointed out that Australian IS will remain an increasingly apathetic world. her children. More than 40 years later, and technology, Filipinos need to be glo- faithful to the Esteban School’s philosophy It is 1976 in the Melbourne suburbs, and after successively offering pre-school to bal in our approach, which is why studying in being student-centered, to help every eight-year-old Mary is an outcast with a higher levels of education, Esteban School at Australian IS will give our students the child achieve his/her full potential. “We are mother drunk on sherry and taxidermy- is once again celebrating a significant advantage of being educated using the best keeping things the same in many ways. Our consumed father. Meanwhile, an obese milestone: its launching as the Austral- techniques and practices used around the philosophy will continue to be based on my 44-year-old Max struggles with Asperger’s ian International School (Australian IS). world.” mother’s saying: ‘Like a seed, within each Syndrome and is likewise friendless. By a Accredited by the Curriculum Council “The addition of Grade 11 and Grade child lies the promise of a fruitful tomor- twist of fate involving Mary randomly se- of Western Australia as a school that of- 12 in Australian IS is actually relevant to row’.” lecting a person in a New York phonebook fers the best of international education in the recent issue on the extension of high Australian International School is located to ask where babies come from, the two be- the Philippines, Australian IS enters a new school levels in Philippine schools,” he add- at 2332 Chino Roces Extension, Fort Boni- gin a pen-pal relationship that brings them chapter as the first and only international ed. “Here, students will be provided with facio, Taguig City. closer to each other than anyone in their school that provides its students the op- a solid foundation for learning to equip JANUARYNOVEMBER 24 28 - FEBRUARY - DECEMBER 6, 201011, 2010 expat newspaper 1315 cultural calendar Compiled by CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA The Gold Mines of French Jazz Trio The Manu Codija Trio Alliance Francaise and the CamarinesBy CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA Norte French Embassy together with the International Jazz 19th-century gold jewelry and Art Festival and the from Camarines Norte Ayala Museum present the French jazzman Manu Codija and his musicians. On December 6 starting at work taken to Mex- 7 p.m. at the Ayala Mu- ico and a quantity seum, Greenbelt, Makati; dispatched to Spain. phone 757-7117 Much prized was the filigree work, something unique in any Ring In the Holidays Call of Art collection of jewelry. Oliver Ochanine conducts the Philippine The Pintura Art Group in cooperation The hair combs were Philharmonic Orchestra in a Christmas with the University of the East College a special favorite concert featuring Ives’ The Unanswered of Fine Arts presents several selections of among the ladies of Question, Romero’s Philippine Portraits paintings by different artists such as John the palace court. and Tchaikovsky’s Francesca da Rimimi: Ray Aquino, Loren Dayrit, Ronell An- Legend has it that Symphonic Fantasy after Dante, Opus 32, geles, Catherine Capistrano, Clint Poli- Camarines Norte along with Christmas medleys and songs. carpio and others. Ongoing until December enjoyed a special sta- Concert begins at 8 p.m., December 9; Cul- 10, Galeria de las Islas, Silahis Center, phone tus with the Spanish tural Center of the Philippines, Roxas Bou- 527-2113 colonial government levard, Metro Manila; phone 832-3704 due to a gift given to Bagobo Myths and Legends es, the Philippines is rich in gold it by a resident Filipi- Beautiful Struggle Sculptor Raymond Tangiday presents mines. Samples of gold jewelry no-Spanish lady. It was a golden figurine Artist Christian Tamondong paints his his works focusing on the Mebuyan, the dating back to the 11th cen- of a hen and her three chicks, laboriously interpretations of his struggles in life. Bagobo tribe of fertility. Ongoing until tury have been dug up in modern times. crafted by the native artisans. Ongoing until December 6 at Blanc, Crown December 12, Mendez Art Gallery, 4/F SM Y Another popular legend mentions an- Both the Filipino and Chinese inhabit- Tower, H.V. de la Costa, Salcedo Village, Megamall, Mandaluyyong, Metro Manila; ants in the country were excellent ar- other crafted figurine, that of a golden bull Makati; phone 0920-9276436 phone 566-2640 tisans, using very fine granulated gold around which stories of it coming to life in and fine wires from which they pro- all its ferocity were told to naughty children Dans in Black and White From Dark to Light duced exquisite gold wrought jewelry to make them behave. Renowned artist Araceli Limcaco Dans Painter Miguel Buhay presents his col- that even European royalty might covet. Camarines Norte’s tambourine jew- mounts her pen-and-ink drawings. On- lection of still lifes, landscapes, figures The gold mines in this province, however, elry, so called because of its design being going until December 11; Art Verite, 2/F and faces. Light and shadow is what he were not readily accessible due to the ter- reminiscent of fine lace, is a favored one in Shops at Serendra, Andres Bonifacio Global continuously observes with his painter’s rain’s topography. Thus, it needed a labori- these days. It is most often worn by women City, Metro Manila; phone 915-1982 eyes. Runs from December 16 to 29 at the ous hike to reach them, taking several days wearing the Maria Clara gown or the terno Ayala Museum. of hot travel under a blazing sun. But the (Philippine gown), and is always reserved Manansala at UST situation is of course much different now. for dressy and special occasions. The paintings of National Artist Vicente The Nutcracker At the beginning of the 20th century, the Samples of Camarines Norte gold jewelry Manasala, including his mural History of To the majestic music of Peter Tchaik- American technology and infrastructure may be viewed at the Yuchengco Museum Medicine gracing the lobby of the UST ovsky, prima ballerina Lisa Macuja Elizal- made the work much easier. in Makati until December 4. On hand to Faculty of Medicine, is showcased in an de dances as Masha in the Christmas fa- Camarines Norte, in modern times, is welcome guests and relate more histori- exhibit. Ongoing at the University of Santo vorite The Nutcracker. Onstage on December one of the active producers of gold jew- cal gems is Ernesto R. Pardo, Camarines Tomas Museum, España. Metro Manila; 3, 4, 5, 10, 11 and 12, Aliw Theater, CCP elry, a tradition that hearkens back to the Norte director of the Department of Trade phone 781-1815 Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Metro Manila; 15th century when the men of that prov- and Industry. phone 400-0292 ince made a living as goldsmiths, with their NOVEMBER 28FEBRUARY - DECEMBER 7 - 20,11, 2010

The Department of Tourism (DOT) recently shelved its “Pilipinas Kay Ganda” (Philippines So Beautiful) campaign in the face of overwhelmingly negative responses of everyone from netizens to the Senate. In the past eight years, the DOT has been running with “WOW Philippines”. While the Department maintains it will still be working to replace the old slogan, it is now back to the prover- bial drawing board. Through various media, the public has offered to help out in coming up with a better campaign. In line with this, Expat asks, What would your slogan be for the Philippines?

Philippe Bartholomi Jean-Luc Kebers Belgian Belgian General manager, Century Park Hotel Hotels Resort Development Consulting

“WOW Philippines” and Having been in the Phil- its multiple sub-versions ippines for more than 10 used in various countries years, in various capaci- has been working well. ties that exposed me to Let us not look at the po- the tourism industry, I litical side and who came have the position that the up with what. Let’s put Philippines’ strengths as the country first and leave politics behind a tourism destination are embedded into as far as tourism promotion is concerned. two fundamental core values: the Filipino The “WOW Philippines” visuals are great, people and the Philippines’ ecotourism or the video clips are world class and the mu- nature. Based on those fundamental val- sic is catchy. All it needs is refinement and ues, I would propose a soft tagline such as: re-launch. “WOW Philippines” can be the “Philippines, Smiling Islands” or “Philip- master slogan and a specific sub-slogan can pines, Singing Islands”, smiling and singing be created for each countries based on the being the people, islands being the nature. country’s market tastes and preferences. A harder tagline could be “Philippines, The The Japanese do not visit the country for Adventure” or “Explore the Philippines”. the same reasons as Australians for example Those will respond emotionally to a trend so country focus must be exercised. of fast growing tourism markets.

Cetin Yalcin Denise Gonzales Turkish Filipino-Indian Country general manager, TNT Express- Mumpreneur, sambista, teacher Philippines My slogan for the Philip- I liked the new slogan pines? Hmmm... “Pilipi- “Pilpinas Kay Ganda”. nas Kong Minamahal”!? WOW is so popular eve- ‘Coz I really love the Phil- rywhere in the world and ippines and choose to live does not differentiate this here even if most of my beautiful country from family and relatives are the others so much. The new slogan can be abroad! Or “Hapinas” ‘coz we are generally further developed by the contents or sub- happy people! slogans. Cynthia Carrion-Norton Nicholas Manuel Almontero Filipino British-Filipino President, Asian Holistic Medical Alliance Owner and designer, Disciplined, London

I really didn’t like “Pili- I didn’t like the new cam- pinas Kay Ganda” at all paign of the Department because we’re supposed to of Tourism for the Philip- be telling it to the whole pines. It’s in Filipino and world. How will they un- others can’t relate to it. derstand it? And you’d How can they promote a have to explain? That’s the country internationally most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard of! I if people won’t even understand what it think we should give the gist of what the means? The older slogan is much better be- Philippines is all about, and I think the best cause it is short but attention-getting. For- thing that explains us is that we are “The eigners are going to be encouraged to visit Heart of Asia”. And if they say, “Wow, how the country out of curiosity, since it could [boastful],” if you look at the map of Asia, beg the question, “What is “wow” with the we are the heart. So it’s double: we are heart Philippines?” My slogan: “Philippines: The of Asia, and also we are loving people.” Island Paradiso”. OUT NOW!