expatexpatexpatNEWSPAPER December 26, 2010 - January 8, 2011 Vol. XXVI No. 132 expatphilippines.wordpress.com The Philippines Forum for International Readers since 1981

By CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA WHAT’S Gov’t Vows To Fight HIV/AIDS n a bid to stop HIV-AIDS from be- “Fast and Furious” tices, but also by sharing of needles among INSIDE coming a nationwide epidemic, the The Philippine HIV and AIDS Registry IDUs. The urgent call for advocates and serv- Philippine National AIDS Council reported a total of 5,729 cases from 1984 to ice providers is to campaign for other alterna- (PNAC)I and its partners recently launched October 2010. Out of this number, there have tive safe sexual practices apart from the basic the latest blueprint for a stronger and more been 852 AIDS cases and 323 reported deaths ABCs (Abstinence, Being faithful to partner compelling campaign against the disease. due to AIDS. and Condom use) to keep up with the accel- Its immediate time frame is the next five National Epidemiology Center director Dr. erating HIV and AIDS epidemic. Local gov- years, 2011-2015, and the strategy involves Eric Tayag has described the local HIV and ernment contribution is vital in the national improvements in existing treatment, care and AIDS epidemic as “fast and furious”. With- response to reduce infections by supporting support packages in terms of coverage for the out new or creative interventions, he said the programs on HIV and AIDS. most at risk populations (MARPS) as well as number of cases could shoot up based on the for stronger advocacies to cause change in sex- 2010 Philippine estimates. 26 Years Ago ual behaviors. PNAC is the highest advisory, “Five years ago, we had 210 new cases re- Department of Health Undersecretary Mario TRAVEL planning and policy making body on HIV and ported per year,” said Dr. Tayag. “This year, Villaverde recalled that the first case of HIV in Ilocos Norte: more than AIDS. however, we have 1,500 cases reported, which the Philippines was reported 26 years ago. The heritage Focus is likewise being given to the rec- means about five cases every day. Before Presi- Philippines had initially managed to maintain page 2 ommended interventions and comprehensive dent Benigno Aquino ends his term, the coun- the prevalence rate of the HIV epidemic below packages for MARPS, which include men try would have an estimated 9,800 new cases 1 percent of the total population. However, having sex with men (MSMs), transgenders and the total number of persons living with this prevalence rate may not be for long if the (TGs), persons in prostitution (PIPs) and per- HIV could reach an estimated 46,000. This is exponential increase in the reported new cases sons who inject drugs (PWIDs, or injecting an alarming number.” will not be halted at the soonest possible time, drug users or IDUs). Dr. Tayag said the spread of infection is Villaverde warned. He added, “Current epide- brought about not only by unsafe sexual prac- miological profile of HIV infec- page 6 EXPAT AND THE EARTH First Climate Change Academy Inaugurated Parallels Renewed Int’l Commitments on Emission Reduction EVENTS By TIMOTHY JAY IBAY Germany remembers the academy will be a repository of knowledge and tion initiatives and DRR. Reunification expertise on local adaptation practices and a page 4 venue for the propagation of best practices. The Climate Battle Thus Far Salceda added that the conference has assured Under the UN Framework Convention local government of developing the resilience on Climate Change’s Kyoto Protocol (KP) of their localities and their capability to adapt of 1997, industrialized countries committed to the adverse impacts of climate change. themselves to a significant reduction of green- Its academic partners, the University of the house gas emissions. The first commitment un- Philippines in Los Baños and Bicol Univer- der the protocol expires in 2012, but recently at Gov. Salceda, Climate Change Commissioner Alvarez and UNDP’s sity, will house the academy. Other partners in a climate change conference in Cancun, Mexi- Renaud Meyer the initiative are the Center for Initiatives and page 6 Research on Climate Adaptation, the Philip- ffirming that climate change is a sub- pine Network of Environmental Journalists ject with solutions on the way and and the Publishers Association of the Philip- not just a buzz word as it was in the pines Inc. Apast, the country's first-ever Climate Change Salceda, who has been lecturing on dis- Academy was launched recently at the Local PEOPLEKristina Beckendorf leads the aster risk reduction (DRR) in Korea and Maersk GSC team Government Units (LGU) Summit+3i Luzon Mexico, among other UN-sponsored forums, Convention of the League of Provinces of the page 9 also shared the honor with his province, Albay, Philippines in Legazpi City. Albay governor which was named global model for being at the Joey Salceda, who was named senior global forefront of the UN climate change adapta- champion at a UN forum last July, said the 2 expat newspaper travel DECEMBER 26, 2010 - JANUARY 8, 2011 Navigating the North

By TIMOTHY JAY IBAY Photos by ALDWIN ASPILLERA

n my younger years, I was a bit of a nomad. Wher- ever the flow of my soul told me to go, I packed for. And that flow was usually dictated by where fun with companyI seemed to resonate the most. That being said, I still hadn't truly grasped the essence of what this re- gion up north, Ilocos Norte, was. Years, a million travel blogs, and about four social networks later, I found that there's still more to Ilocos Norte than meets your Mac. It was five years ago when I first zipped up my backpack to take the long drive up north. Barely out of college and just learning the ropes of the beauties of my country, I hadn't a clue of what to expect. I've seen on TV some of the places that we'd pass by on our way to Ilocos Norte and heard that Pagudpud was the beach to bask in up north. But that was about the extent of it. Fast forward to 2010, now fancying myself as a novice travel writer, I packed for a four-day trip to Ilocos Norte. And while I've come across tales and blog posts about other things that Ilocos Norte has to offer, and despite the fact that I had the travel itinerary with me, it all still seemed foreign to me. In my naiveté, I still had Fort Ilocandia, that stretch of Pagudpud and those baroque churches from five years ago dominating my thoughts.

Let the Unlearning Begin At the media junket welcome dinner hosted by governor Imee Marcos, the conversation became a sort of introduc- tion into the Ilocano lot. She spoke of the common percep- tions of Ilocanos, elaborating on those that were true and enlightening us on those that weren't. I figured it was just table talk, but as I looked back at our northern sojourn, the traits of their people she spoke of reflected the essence of their travel destinations as well. Governor Marcos said that Ilocanos in general are very proud of their heritage, and nurture this "retrofitting culture" that they possess. If something can still be used for anything else, the Ilocanos will find a way. Our first stop was a unique example of this: the Dragon Fruit Plantation in the town of Burgos. I had no clue what a dragon fruit was, what it tasted like, and didn't have the faintest picture of how it looked like. But our energetic and eloquent tour guide made sure that was no longer the case shortly after our arrival. It was brought to our attention that no part of this fruit goes to waste. While the fruit in itself is a treat, lo- cals also use its skin and other parts of the plant to make spring rolls, vegan burger patties, dumplings, bread and various pastries, and even wine. The governor also shared that Ilocos Norte has had a his- tory of being the lo- cation of choice for many films. She at- tributes this to their distinct geography, pointing out that a lot of the places they have don't par- ticularly look like the Philippines in gen- eral. The next stop on DECEMBER 26, 2010 - JANUARY 8, 2011 expat newspaper 3 One of the north’s scenic Vintage vantage collaborations travel

Winsome serenity at Sitio Remedios

our list was such an example. Sliding down But perhaps my favorite stop in that a pathway, we were suddenly introduced to packed itinerary was Sitio Remedios and peculiar mix of hills, rocks, greens and sea. its neighboring beach resort, Palayopoy And at a short distance, the Kapurpurawan Resort. Sitio Remedios is a private heritage White Rock formation highlighted this village surrounded with charming Spanish- strangely beautiful area. era houses. In the middle of it is an engag- I can't quite put my finger on what it ing garden that leads to the beach. It was is people are meant do here. Shoot a film, arresting as it was serene. quite possibly. Hike and nature-trip, that's for sure. But it seems to me a guitar, some Smorgasbord of Life rum and good people would be quite the Our stay lasted four days, but it wasn't treat once you revel in the view on top of nearly enough for everything Ilocos Norte these rock formations. With the wind has on the table. There are, of course, the blowing and the waves splashing, it's a spot renowned beaches of Pagudpud, where you to just be. can stumble across resorts like Kapuluan Another one of these awe-inspiring spots Beach Resort where resort owner and pro- is Paoay's sand dunes. Five years ago, I had surfer Mike can give you personal lessons in Stunning Kapurpurawan White Rock formation never heard of this place. But on that Sat- surfing. There’s also the winsome Kabigan urday, I found myself in the front seat of a Falls and the choice of either trekking to it 4x4 jeep, its engine roaring as we maneu- or hopping aboard a 4x4. And, Ilocos Norte vered up and down the dunes of this surreal being a living, breathing museum of many place. Let me give you the specifics: 724 and varying sorts, also has the windmills of hectares of cream sand, situated some 10 to the Northwind Bangui Bay Project for you 20 meters above sea level. To the side rests to marvel at, beautiful Baroque churches a beach whose inviting shade of blue is only like Paoay's San Agustin Church, and trib- magnified by the heat negotiated by the utes to Ilocos natives like the Juan Luna dunes and the sun. In so few words, it was Shrine and the Marcos Mausoleum. amazing to behold. But while the place is I've always held the notion that Ilocos all that, there is also sand boarding on offer, Norte is a place where you breathe in herit- to go along with the off road experience of age, but I learned that’s only the tip of the the 4x4s, making the dunes about as much proverbial iceberg. Underneath there's ad- fun as you can have in that kind of heat. To venture, gastronomy and serenity all con- me, if you're anywhere remotely close to the veniently wrapped up in a sweeping pack- town of Paoay, this is something you need to age that is the north. experience. 4 expat newspaper events DECEMBER 26, 2010 - JANUARY 8, 2011 Reunification, Remembered By HANNAH VARILLA he German National Day held at technology. He also stated that he is keen the Dusit Thani can be considered on "assisting the Philippines in implement- a forerunner to many unconven- ing ambitious plans." Ttional things. It has always been a cel- Aside from a passionate clapping of hands, ebration that commemorates the German the German community may have as well Reunification of October 3, 1990, also bid the Ambassador’s words “viel Glück” as known as Tag der Deutschen Einheit. For they proposed a toast to the spirit of the na- Germany, reunification has always sym- tional day celebration. A video showcasing bolized strong hopes of building nation- various German events in the Philippines, hood, having never given up on its dreams as well as a number of beautiful landscapes, no matter how lifeless they had become. places and people, played on as fellowship Dutch Amb. Robert Brinks and Spanish Amb. Luis And the Germans in this country are and goodwill came floating on along the Arias Romero never tired of living out their dreams, not grand ballroom venue. even in a foreign land away from home. With vestiges of a traditional German Ambassador Christian-Ludwig Weber- feast in the likes of bockwurst, knackwurst German Amb. Christian-Ludwig Weber-Lortsch Lortsch made this apparent during his and weisswurst served on steaming trays of delivers a speech speech, stating that "a lot has to be done lo- hot potatoes and vegetables, the German cally and internationally," pointing out his community capped off the evening with a plans of collaborating with the Philippine taste of home, indeed. government in building climate change UAE Amb Moosa A. Alkhajah, Sofitel’s Mo Ihsan and Saudi Amb. Abdullah Bin Ibrahim Al Hassan

Philippine Amb. Delia Domingo-Albert, Singapore Amb. A Selverajah and Morgan Stanley’s Joanne de Asis

Mr. and Mrs. Eduard Westreicher

Lufthansa Technik Philippines’ Norbert Krueger and Civil Aviation Authority Alfredo Ching and Mme. Thi ADB’s Florian Steinberg, Carola Donner-Reichle and Banck Salzer and Bella Monse adviser Maximilian Motschmann Quynh Trang Pham husband Dr. Jochen Donnev, and Berthold Leimbach Ulrike Wenig and Katrin Wilhelm

Forbes Town Center off Burgos Circle Forbes Road Bonifacio Global City Tel # 856-48-58 [email protected] DECEMBER 26, 2010 - JANUARY 8, 2011 expat newspaper 5 economy & business

By CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA

Philippine Business for Social Progress: Past and Present In the year 1970, leaders from 50 Phil- were typically given for income-gener- businesses. Since its founding in 1970, it Both new officers have issued a joint ippine-based corporations got together ating projects and PBSP also directly has benefited 4.5 million Filipinos and statement, part of which reads: “To con- to establish what is perhaps the biggest provided training services and technical assisted some 6,200 social development tribute further to national development, non-government organization (NGO) in assistance. projects through more than PHP 7 billion we will scale up the promotion of our the country, the Philippine Business for in grants and development loans. advocacies in Corporate Citizenship and Social Progress (PBSP). Its purpose was First of its Kind in Asia Recently, PBSP through incumbent Global Compact principles towards the to help alleviate poverty among disadvan- At present, PBSP is the largest corpo- chairman Manuel Pangilinan announced achievement of the Millennium Devel- taged communities in many parts of the rate-led social development foundation in the appointment of Rafael Cojuangco opment Goals. We will continue to add country. the Philippines that implements projects Lopa as executive director and Klaas value to the initiatives of Philippine busi- Credit must be given to the guiding in education, health, livelihood and en- Oreel as chief executive advisor. The lat- nesses by managing projects that express mind that conceived this program: busi- terprise, and the environment. PBSP is in ter position was specially created to give their social responsibility. We will height- ness leader Sixto K. Roxas III. He urged fact the first of its kind in Asia, consider- Oreel a hand in strategic advising and in en our engagement with the international that the PBSP was not to be a mere char- ing that it is currently composed of more strengthening PBSP’s corporate struc- donor community to secure more grants itable organization but one involved in than 260 large, medium-scale and small ture. for our country.” social development programs for the dis- advantaged. Two other founders, George Dee and Bienvenido Tan, Jr., elaborated on the spiritual dimension of the under- taking, the better to address the social conscience of the entire business com- munity nationwide. Washington Sycip prepared a position paper upon the instance of Dee. Sycip’s paper conceptualized the formation of a social venture capital organization made up of business corporations that would start and fund small-scale social develop- ment projects and see to it that these could become self-sustaining. The organization was to be headed by chief executive of- ficers of top corporations to ensure that the venture would be a mainstream and not a secondary concern of the concerned corporations. PBSP's primary financing came from its member corporations, along with co- financing programs with other donors. It also had a capital fund built up with contributions from corporations, founda- tions, international donors and individu- als. PBSP provided financial support in the form of loans and grants to community- based organizations and NGOs. Loans

Authentic Japanese Service at Networld

Imbibing the philosophy of kaizen or continuous improvement in every aspect in their industry and commerce, the Japanese are known for combining service with high quality, in convenient packages. At the corner of Roxas Boulevard and Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue in Pasay City, guests can experience this world-class Japanese-style service at Networld Hotel, a one-stop entertainment center and boutique hotel with 89 well- appointed rooms. The hotel’s dining establishments include Café Sampaguita, which serves Asian and international cuisine, Le Amoretto Bar and Café, which offers coffee concoctions, pizza, pasta and pastries, and Kaishu Japanese Restaurant, which presents authentic Japanese food. Guests seeking some pampering may go to SM Kenko Spa, the first Japanese health spa in the Philippines, which features hydrojet massages and a lounge with the famous Manila Bay view. For customers interested in a world-class gaming experience, Pagcor Club Majestic is open from 1 p.m. to 8 a.m. Finally, Networld Travel and Tours is the hotel’s in-house travel agency, and offers affordable package rates for the client’s travel needs. Enjoy the luxury of Japanese hospitality and service tradition amidst a Western setting. Truly, Networld Hotel Manila offers a unique blend of East and West. news DECEMBER 26, 2010 - JANUARY 8, 2011 expatexpat 2011 HIV/AIDS expatn e w s p a p e r Israel Continues Farming Action… from page 1 The Philippines’ forum for international readers since 1981 By ELGA D. REYES tion in the country reveals, among others, Program in Nueva Ecija that those infected are young and in their Murray Hertz most productive years. Data shows that ages Editorial & Publishing Consultant he Philippines is an agricultural how through necessity: “Israel is a very country that cannot feed its peo- small country. We are the size of Palawan. of those infected ranges between 20 and 34 with median age of 27; and more males are Butch C. Bonsol ple. Rich in resources and with And with weather, we are not blessed with an ideal climate, yet farmers are still so much rain and we do not have a big area, infected principally through male-to-male President & Managing Director T sexual contact.” not at their optimum output. Helping so we use water and land very efficiently.” the country through technology, train- Lauded farmer-scientist Rey Hilario Villaverde lamented, “Through the years, Elga D. Reyes we have seen the impact of the virus in our Editor ing and capacity-building is Israel, by showed how he has been applying learned way of the Israel Embassy in Manila. concepts in his model farm at Talavera, a socio-developmental growth. Therefore, as stakeholders, we are challenged more than Carmencita H. Acosta Recently, Israeli Ambassador Zvi Vapni nearby town of Llanera. Hilario was also with Department of Agrarian Reform sent to Israel, receiving a professional course ever to scale up and improve our response Jahzeel Abihail G. Cruz in a more assertive manner for us to increase Associate Editors (DAR) Secretary Virgilio De Los Reyes on vegetable production. launched the second phase of the Philip- In his 2.5-hectare land, where one hectare the coverage of reach of our intervention, programs and services.” Timothy Jay Ibay pine-Israel Center for Agricultural Train- is allotted for farming rice and the rest is Astra C. Alegre ing (PICAT II) and the third phase for the for vegetables, an array of diversified crops Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support can be found, where local is mixed with Commitment, Cooperation Needed Richard A. Ramos (Cebu) Villaverde called for cooperation among Writers/Reporters Project (ARISP III) in Llanera, Nueva foreign varieties. The assortment has red Ecija. This is an extension of a joint pro- peppers, broccoli, eggplants, onion, and pa- stakeholders to design policies that are ev- gram targeting eight provinces in Central paya, among others. Hilario reported that idence-based, culturally appropriate, age- Leah Egamino-Palaña specific, context specific, gender-responsive Advertising Luzon: Pampanga, Bataan, Tarlac, Aurora, to efficiently use the land, rice production is Bulacan, Zambales, and North and South alternated with onions: the former for rainy and upholds the principles of human right. Nueva Ecija. The aim is to help increase the season and the latter for the off season. “Within the mandate of different agen- Dominic De Vera cies, we must be able to promote equal ac- Classified Ads productivity and income of agrarian reform The problems he cited though, when beneficiaries. pressed by DAR Sec. De Los Reyes in order cess and equitable distribution of services in The government of Japan, via its Japan In- for his agency to assist better, are lack of a manner that is non-discriminatory across Eleanore Fern B. Pagaduan individuals infected or affected by HIV,” he Lay-out Artist ternational Cooperation Agency (JICA), is greenhouses for most farmers, as this ena- also assisting through a loan. bles to plant more during typhoon weather; said. Our office address: Inspecting one of the vegetable gar- lack of cold storages, warehouse and other Lower Ground Floor, Legaspi Towers 100 dens in Llanera, where farming technolo- facilities; and marketing, which is needed 148 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village, gies and practices like vermicomposting, to control pricing of the various produce First Climate Change Makati City mulching and drip irrigation were taught among different farmers and towns. For from page 1 Our telephone numbers: and now implemented by visiting Israeli this last dilemma, Hilario suggested a pos- Academy… (+632) 840-2996 or (+632) 812-0987; experts, Amb. Vapni explained why their sible zoning solution. Fax (+632) 840-2988 co, high-level ministers from 193 countries, government started such an initiative. He At the ceremony of the launch, Llanera including the Philippines, reached a second You can also reach us at: said, “As a young country, we have different Mayor Lorna Vero thanked the national agreement. [email protected] [email protected] challenges and after we managed to over- government and Israel for providing a Restoring crushed hopes at last year's come them we decided that the right thing growth spurt to their “poor” fourth-class failed climate negotiations in Copenha- and for sales and advertising: to do is share this technology with other municipality. But she quoted their local [email protected] gen, the nations of the world rediscovered people.” motto, “Bawal Mainip” which means ‘be- a consensus on addressing global warming Cebu Mailing Address: Through the embassy, channelling the ing impatient is not allowed’ to show that by pollution. The challenge for negotiators MJ. Cuenco Avenue cor. C. Mina St., Mabolo, capabilities of MASHAV or Israel’s Center doing the reverse, progress will come with Cebu City coming into the conference was to figure Telefax: (+632) 412-8000 for International Cooperation, and work- constant perseverance. out a framework to succeed the KP, which ing in partnership with failed to set limits on emissions from major the Central Luzon State polluters such as the United States, China Statements, views and opinions expressed by the University (CLSU) for writers, contributors, and advertisers are their This Israeli variety grows a round eggplant, similar to the shape of a and India (the latter two, as developing own and do not necessarily represent those of an agricultural extension pomelo. This helps increase production and income yield, though yet to countries, are exempt from KP's binding the publisher or the management. with research and de- be sold targets). The publisher assumes no responsibility for velopment, professional The Cancun compacts, greeted by a roar unsolicited material. training of local gov- of applause, are considered the first real step ernment unit extension in building an international system that in- workers, DAR technical volves all global warming pollution, and Check out staff, and select farmers not just that produced by the rich nations will be done. The knowl- governed by the KP. There is now an ex- Expat Online edge transfer focuses on isting agreement that allows for the future www.expatphilippines.wordpress.com vegetable production development of the KP system. Another using Israeli technology establishes an international climate fund, And follow us on twitter @expatnewspaper. and seed varieties. which "enacts mechanisms to fight defor- Let us know what you think about the issues Amb. Vapni shared how estation and deploy clean technology in the affecting the expat community. they built their know- We want to hear from you! developing world", to be managed by the World Bank. Agency News Bits Compiled by JAHZEEL ABIHAIL G. CRUZ and TIMOTHY JAY IBAY

BI Purges Fixers from Main Office past administration, the bureau’s security 280,000 to 325,000. on garbage collectors for not sorting Nearly a hundred individuals suspected guards never strictly implemented the Meanwhile, the Philippines, through the wastes as required by law and as a strategy of being fixers were banned from the orders against them. DOT and Philippine Tourism Promotions to encourage the public to segregate their premises of the Bureau of Immigration’s BI administrative chief Felino Quirante Board, has won the bid to host the Pacific wastes. (BI) main office in Intramuros, Manila. Jr. said the move is part of the BI's ongoing Asia Travel Association (PATA) Travel According to DENR Secretary Ramon BI OIC Ronaldo Ledesma ordered the housecleaning of undesirable elements Mart in September 2012. J. P. Paje, the Ecological Solid Waste bureau's Civil Security Unit (CSU) to and personnel. About 1,500 participants from the Asia Management Act of 2000 explicitly strictly enforce the ban on 96 persons Pacific region are expected to participate prohibits the collection of non-segregated suspected of engaging in anomalous deals DOT Bullish on 3.3M Yearend Target in the event. The mart, one of PATA’s two waste and transporting them. This includes and unauthorized transactions in the BI The Department of Tourism (DOT) signature events, is Asia Pacific’s premier mixing source-separated waste in any main office. is optimistic that its 3.3-million visitor business contracting and networking container used for solid waste collection "It's about time we conduct a serious arrival target for the year will be met as event for the travel and tourism industry. or disposal. crackdown against these unauthorized January to October figures totaled 2.84 “Filipinos are now aware of waste persons who prey on unsuspecting million, registering a 15.85-percent DENR Mulls Penalty for Un-segregated segregation and many are already practicing foreigners with impunity to the detriment increase over the same period last year. Waste it in their households, but a lot of them are of the bureau's reputation," stated The report recorded increases for all ten The Department of Environment discouraged to sustain this practice because Ledesma. He added that while several of months with spikes in January, March, and Natural Resources (DENR) is they see the truck collectors mixing up the alleged fixers have been banned by the May, July and August of volumes between contemplating the imposition of penalties their garbage anyway,” Paje said. DECEMBER 26, 2010 - JANUARY 8, 2011 business expat newspaper 7

By RICHARD A. RAMOS No hileAlternative business process outsourc- Whileto he BPOs? admitted that several problems of near-misses (applicants that fail to get straighten itself out over time. ing (BPOs) centers admittedly do exist in BPOs such as unwanted preg- the passing mark by a few points) since the “The employees will settle down eventu- carry a high price in terms of nancies, the rise of vices, health problems, hiring rate stands at a mere 5 percent. ally and seek long-term job stability after Whealth and social costs to society, there high turnover, and drastic changes in the Yu also singled out the banking sector bouncing around the different call centers. seems to be no other alternative in sight body clock, the advantages outweigh the and the top companies such as Ayala and They will also adjust to the working condi- that guarantees huge financial returns for setbacks due to the enormous economic Aboitiz, which hire only a few graduates tions and take the customer complaints in its workforce within a brief period of time. returns, mushrooming of retail outlets, yearly despite the huge number of compa- stride,” he told reporters. “It may not be a perfect scenario, but what and increased spending power of the con- nies under their mother firm. He also foresees a rise in the hiring rate of other choice do we have? Where else can sumer. “BDO hires very few applicants despite new applicants due to better quality train- the starting employee make over double Yu also credited the extremely solid sup- their many bank branches in Cebu. The ing coming from the call centers and their the minimum wage despite minimal col- port of the local government, which has laid same with the prominent conglomerate training academies. lege education? And where else can one the necessary groundwork and the after- companies with their very wide range of Cebu presently hosts over 35,000 call find bountiful work opportunities due to sales service to ensure that the BPOs are products and services,” he affirmed. center agents housed in over 40 non-voice the rapid expansion of the call centers?” assured of fresh and qualified talent. Prof. Perry Fajardo of the University of BPOs, and over 30,000 in 28 to 30 voice Joel Mari Yu queried during the weekly 888 Moreover, the city government has also ab- San Carlos School of Economics agreed BPOs. Media Forum held at the Marco Polo Plaza sorbed a share of the training costs of BPO that the BPO sector has its share of obsta- Hotel in Cebu. applicants in order to minimize the number cles, but added that the problem will soon

CebuBy RICHARD A. Embarks RAMOS on Ecotourism, Heritage Drive

he Cebu Chamber of Com- Busay. Situated a mere 15-minute drive a historic view of Mt. Manunggal, the crash guide, and handicraft demo. merce and Industry (CCCI) from the foot of Nivel Hills, the structure site of the late Pres. Ramon Magsaysay, wall Jenny Franco of Travelvision Tours related has created a series of ecotour- is a showcase of manifold green initiatives climbing, native delicacies, and a visit to the that the tour is a unique ecotourism model. ism package tours aimed at showcas- owned by former Cebu City councilor Nes- mountain chalet of the Ortiz family. River guides were former dynamite fisher- T Eco Tour 3 is the Cebu Wetland Resort men and bird poachers who became nature ing little-known but relevant attractions. tor Archival. “We want to play up the 'pockets of beauty' Archival pointed out that the house is situated a few minutes drive from the South conservationists. concept in the countryside where specific made of recycled and indigenous materials, Road Properties. Fishing, boating, water- A different tour component is the two- areas of beauty are highlighted, resulting in utilizing solar and wind power. Wastewater falls and mango trees abound in the area. The hour Hop-on, Hop-off Tour. This consists its eventual growth throughout the place. goes to the filter system and the duck pond place is also ideal for seminars and picnics of 14 different stops, all within city limits, We are establishing linkages with the lead- comprising 250 ducks to save on food and with well-appointed rooms equipped with at various museums, malls, landmarks and ing stakeholders of the tourism industry in freshwater supply. modern facilities. The two-hour visit offers other sites. The tour begins and ends at City order that the project be jumpstarted,” de- Eco Tour 2 is a visit to the Adventure Cafe. a unique water nature experience within Hall, where lunch is served. clared Dr. Mila Espina, chair of the CCCI Located in Gaas, Balamban, a 40-minute city limits, cited Anna Quisumbing from According to Tess Chan, co-chair of the tourism team. drive from Barangay Lahug, the half-day the Cebu City Tourism Commission. event, its feasibility is still to be studied With Eco Tour 1, visitors witness up close adventure is highlighted by a 500-meter There's also Eco-Tour 4, the famed Bojo given considerations for traffic, weather, the wonders of the 7,000-square-meter zip line ride overlooking the cool moun- River Eco-Cultural Tour, situated deep tickets, sustenance and other factors. The Eco House in the mountain barangay of tain range. Other tour components include down south in the municipality of Alogu- number of tourists present also has to be insan. The four-hour tour consists of a man- determined, as well as the addition or dele- grove ecology and bird wildlife lecture, lo- tion of other spots. cal cuisine, folklore history, river cruise with PLDT TelPad: A

World’sBy ASTRA C. ALEGRE First nnovative. It is a world’s first, the Nazareno said, “The only one, and proudly Filipino-made. PLDT TelPad was con- the Philippine Long Distance Tel- ceptualized and devel- ephoneI Company recently launched its oped here in the Philip- PLDT TelPad – a landline, touch-screen pines using world-class tablet and DSL high-speed internet con- technology. We are nection combined under a single service reshaping the future of plan. the landline telephone The special handset, used to make and and we are starting to receive phone calls like a regular landline, bring it to the market also serves as a charging dock for the 7-inch now.” This innovative touch-screen tablet that runs on Android’s device allows you not latest operating system, which offers multi- only to communicate tasking capabilities. It allows the user to ac- easily with your friends cess over 100,000 online applications such but also brings infor- as business apps, e-books and digital games. mation and the latest The HDMI port also allows the TelPad to trends conveniently at serve as a multimedia player for movies, your fingertips. music and photos on a widescreen TV. The All-girl sing- unit includes a 2-megapixel camera, for still and-dance group Eura- shots and video conferencing. sia and the popular Side The touch screen tablet is powered by a A band added more fun 1GHz Cortex A8 processor. Its 2GB inter- to the launch, while nal storage can be expanded with the use of guests at the event an SD card or through the use of the USB showed more than cas- slot. ual interest in the new Customers can choose from the follow- product. ing plans: Plan 1849 for 1 Mbps; Plan 2099 “When I for 1.5 Mbps; Plan 3095 for 2.5 Mbps; and heard that the TelPad Plan 4100 for 3.5 Mbps. These are all in- has games, I was excit- clusive of the landline phone and myDSL ed,” said fashion model broadband service. Great news for current Kelly Misa. Recent PLDT myDSL subscribers: you only need Amazing Race Asia to pay an additional PHP 500 on top of winner Rich Herrera your monthly bill and the PLDT Telpad is enthusiastically pro- yours free. claimed, “I want one in PLDT president and CEO Napoleon my house.” 8 expat newspaper dining DECEMBER 26, 2010 - JANUARY 8, 2011

BorrowedBy ELGA D. REYES Future at Borough New Year’s Eve Hotel Offerings Borough’s filling dishes usually come with a sidings in IN METRO MANILA a distinctive arrangement: a brown paper bag, on top of a New York subway map, or (below) with a tin can Dusit Thani Manila for that chilled milk for Mom’s milk and cookies Countdown concert starts at 10 p.m with festive program featuring live band nice tingle, while green beans provided the music until midnight; special feature crunch and almonds slivers threw in bouts is the presentation of the Singing of crackle in every savor. Ambassadors of Operation Smile; call For a second dish, I couldn’t resist trying 238-8888 the chocolate chicken wings, simply be- cause they were touted to be baked in cocoa The Heritage Hotel Manila and cinnamon. Well, I should have picked Band music at Riviera Coffeeshop from The Elvis instead, which is a fried sandwich 9 p.m. to midnight; prizes are raffled off loaded with peanut butter and banana cou- to lucky diners by midnight; call 854- pled with coconut dulce de leche and sour 8888 cream. Maybe that would have lived up to the excitement since there was only a whiff Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila of the chocolate, and barely a taste. Set menus at all dining outlets; disco Then came my shamelessness. In the same party featuring a parade starts at 11 p.m traditional New Yorker vein as stealing a at Rooftop; call 245-1234 Welcome 2011 at the cab from someone who needs it more, I InterContinental Manila asked for dessert. I should be full as it is, but InterContinental Manila I had to sample the recommended Mom’s Welcome 2011 Party starts at 11 p.m. Makati Shangri-La Manila milk and cookies – and they did not disap- at Grand Ballroom with cocktail buffet Live band backs up singers at the Lobby he year had come and gone in one point. Good job Mom! Or rather, kudos to and free-flowing non-alcoholic drinks; Lounge with international dinner buffet swift swoop that 2011 brings some the chef – the chilled milk, which came in a call 793-7000 available until the midnight countdown; warranted extension – to accom- glass bottle sunk in a tin pail filled with ice, call 813-8888 Tplish more and fulfill that bucket list that was his own blend, extra thick and sweet. I Mandarin Oriental Hotel Manila hardly had a chance. Personally, one of was content taking turns dunking my oat- Cocktails at lobby lounge; at 11:45 p.m. Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila those boxes that have yet to be ticked off is meal cinnamon, gingerbread and chocolate guests are escorted down to Makati At Spiral a live musical performance setting foot in big, bad and beautiful NYC. chip cookies into the milk. But if I were to Avenue for the New Year countdown; begins at 10 p.m. until the New Year New York: so far, and surprisingly near. be sassy enough for the city, I pretended I at 12:15 a.m. music and light dancing countdown; call 551-5555 Yes, that’s right. Looking positively puz- could no longer finish the rest of the cookie follows at the hotel’s Martini’s dining zled, I entered Borough, a spot amiss in- dozen. Thanks Borough. Next up: the real hall; call 750-8888 Traders Hotel Manila side The Podium in Ortigas. No expert, but thing. Dinner buffet of Philippine dishes at 6 the place did exude a hip “Empire State of Manila Marriott Hotel to10 p.m. at ground floor; cocktail party Mind” vibe. The interiors are a clean mini- Its Ballroom at the 9th floor explodes at VIP Lounge 19th floor, 9:30 p.m. to 1 malist, of the industrial chic variety. I would with the sound of lively music by local a.m.; call 523-7011 soon learn that this is the Williamsburg- live bands and the aroma of international inspired Brooklyn borough. If things flow dishes prepared by the chefs; party is IN CEBU without a hitch, then the other districts – from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.; call 988-9999 Manhattan, The Bronx, Queens and Staten Hilton Cebu Resort & Spa Island – will have their separate dining re- Networld Hotel New Year’s Eve Party at Vanilla Beach incarnates eventually. Café Sampaguita is open 24 hours; Front with buffet until countdown; call This much Big Apple native Chef Cuit Sparomatherapy at SM Kenko Spa is (032) 492-7777 local 7211 Kaufman divulged, as I waited to sample from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m; call 536-7777 what he and owners Il Ponticello Group Marco Polo Plaza Cebu have dubbed as “New York comfort food”. New World Hotel Buffet in all four dining outlets and a He described it as “a little bit like Ameri- Cocktail party with ‘60s and ‘70s music special buffet at Grand Ballroom, with can comfort food but a little bit more so- at Cinnabar, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m; set menu at live band entertainment; Grand Balcony phisticated, a little bit more international.” other dining outlets; call 811-6888 opens 11 p.m. for countdown; raffle Customary to the city, they make their own winners are announced after midnight; bagels and serve street staples like falafel Pan Pacific Hotel Manila call (032) 253-1111 and bacon cheese dog, as well as other mean Cocktails at 6 to 8 p.m.; special buffet at sandwiches (they heart their cheese-inject- 9 p.m. to 12 midnight with a live band at Cebu City Marriott Hotel ed Portobello pita pocket) for perpetually the Lounge at the 21st floor from where Dinner buffet starts 7 p.m. with live band on-the-go urbanites. one sees all the simultaneous fireworks entertainment, variety show, and raffle To start, the fish fillet adorning the jas- display held all over Manila; call 318- prizes; after countdown at 12 midnight a mine rice was flavorful, soaking it with 0788 snacks buffet is served; all activities at the melted butter. Citrusy capers added that Grand Ballroom; call (032) 415-6100 Manila Pavilion Hotel & Casino Buffet dinner at Season’s Café; cocktail Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu party at ground floor lobby, 9 p.m. to 2 Seafood dinner buffet at Feria 6:30 to a.m.; call 526-1212 11 p.m.; live musical entertainment and spread of cold cuts and hot dishes The Peninsula Manila at Lobby 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.; countdown Gala ball with international buffet at excitement starts 11:30 p.m. with Lobby starts at 9 p.m.; dessert section complimentary media noche fare; call has varied items capped by a flowing (032) 231-0810 chocolate fountain; call 810-3456 Shangri-la’s Mactan Island Resort and Richmonde Hotel Spa Special dinner buffet at Richmonde Three dining outlets are open; cocktail Café; cocktail buffet countdown party at party starts 11 p.m. at Marquee Hall Exchange Bar, 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.; avail of with live musical entertainment free for discount if taking two successive buffets all in-house guests; call (032) 231-0288 aforementioned; call 538-7777 IN DAVAO Edsa Shangri-La Manila Gala buffet dinner and all-night dancing Marco Polo Davao starts at 8 p.m. with ‘70s music by live Live band plays music from the ‘80s bands POSH and Winegums; call 633- at the Ballroom from 9 p.m to 1 a.m.; 8888 buffet is available at all dining outlets; call (082) 221-0888 DECEMBER 26, 2010 - JANUARY 8, 2011 people expat newspaper 9

Kristina Beckendorf: Team Player By JAHZEEL ABIHAIL G. CRUZ tiatives in recent years, and has added 600 The company has since bounced back of her Filipino colleagues, whom she de- more people to its roster in 2010. strongly with over USD 2 billion in earn- scribes as “having a high level of empathy”, “I’ve been responsible for large teams be- ings for Maersk’s shipping division in in getting the job done. “I am very much a fore, but most of that was split between di- 2010, thanks to a combination of indus- people and process person. What I always rect local responsibility and a virtual setup, try improvements and “getting the basics emphasize here is that we have two priori- where I had teams sitting the States, sitting right” through process streamlining. “But ties: our people and our customers,” adds in Asia,” she says. Was the shift a major of course our competition doesn’t sleep,” Kristina. change, then? “It’s very exciting because it’s says Kristina. Her migration is not without its culture a very diverse job. Also, we have more than shocks, bureaucracy and the weather among 150 entities that we serve from here, so we On the Go them. But because she’s lived away from her have a lot of exposure to the global organi- Speaking of a lack of sleep, Kristina seems birthplace of Bremen, Germany for a good zation that is A.P. Moller-Maersk.” not to suffer the same fate despite her busy number of years, including in Denmark Kristina began at Maersk in her native schedule. It might be because she likes to and the US, she’s not homesick. “Home is a Germany 16 years ago, in a third-party lo- keep active; in fact, she says she would most matter of definition,” she says wisely. gistics provider function. The GSCs han- probably have been a horseback-riding So what’s next for Maersk GSC? “Defi- dle transactional and knowledge-based instructor had fate not steered her toward nitely a lot of process improvement, a lot back office processes for the entire Maersk Maersk. of people development, and taking on new group, which includes container shipping, “Working out in the morning for me is work up the value chain, more knowledge- “This is something I discuss with logistics, and oil tanker divisions, among like pressing the reset button every day,” based work.” And for Kristina? “For Christ- my friends that have kids: I always others. she says. She also swims, runs and plays mas, [my partner and I] are gonna take it recommend that one of the sports the kids The shipping division in particular suf- volleyball. She’s foregone the iPod during easy at our home in Alabang. But for the should be interested in is a team sport. You fered a major blow during the recession of workouts, however, as she’s found Nature’s New Year, we’re gonna go down to Boracay.” only win if you work as a team.” the late 2000s, losing hundreds of millions sounds much more relaxing. A well-deserved break indeed. These words of wisdom Kristina Beck- in 2009. Despite tough times, the company A good run gets her ready for a day endorf evidently applies often at her new maintained its Philippine GSC – despite at the office, which usually begins at managing director post at Maersk Global costs that, until recently, were steeper than 9 a.m. After an hour of catch-up, it’s Service Centres (Phils.) Ltd., where she for its Indian counterparts – because “One, back-to-back-to-back meetings with heads a team significantly larger than a the culture is very westernized, but also very her management team members, in- sports team, one of 2,000 people. Asian, in that everybody is very service- ternal and external stakeholders, of- Once a back office for a shipping company minded and caring,” shares Kristina. ten via phone or video conferencing called Sealand, this particular site found it- She adds, “[There’s] a pretty strong mari- but sometimes in person with col- self integrated into Danish shipping giant time industry here as well. Our company leagues from other Maersk offices in Maersk’s global network in 2000 when the alone has more than 5,000 Filipino seafar- the world. There are also regular talks latter acquired the former. This Philippine ers in our fleet, which also gives us an ad- with GSC headquarters in Copenha- BPO arm, one of the company’s five world- vantage over many other countries in the gen twice or thrice a week. At the company Christmas party wide, has benefited from optimization ini- world.” She’s quick to recognize the efforts 10 expatexpat newspaper newspaper DECEMBERDECEMBER 26, 2010 26-JANUARY - JANUARY 8, 2011 DECEMBER 26-JANUARY 8, 2011 expat newspaper 11 REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE SERVICES SERVICES SERVICES SERVICES SERVICES SERVICES

RENT/SALE RENT/SALE RENT/SALE RENT/SALE RENT/SALE RENT/SALE TUTORIAL/ PERSONAL CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES CHURCHES HOUSEHOLD DENTAL EDUCATIONAL DELIVERY

TOWNHOUSE EUROPACIFIC GLORIETTA VACANT RESIDENTIAL SPACE UNION HOSTEL/HOTEL Drivers, Housemaid, DENTAL CENTER DUTCH ALLURE PROPERTIES FOR LEASE CLASSICA TOWER Caregivers, Cook, Yaya, 24 Hour Airport Service. 3/F Mercury Drug Learn the language & LPG H.V. Dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati w/ NBI Clearance Back- Near All 4 Airports CHURCH Glorietta 3, Ayala Center pass the MVV exam. BEAUTY AND PACIFIC PLAZA AYALA 285SQ.M. FOR RENT: 1,2 & 3BR w/ parking ground Check FAST DELIVERY 38TH AND 20TH FLOOR, 3 BEDROOMS Tel. # 840-1898; BARBER SHOP Room Rates P300 to 833-6720/ 0917-6038007 For inquiries (02) 898- 2.7KG. 11KG. 50KG 3T&B, SEMI-FURNISHED, MAID’S ROOM Luxuriously furnished & renovated 556-9342 Clinic hours: P950.00/night OF Offers intensive hair & Bulk Deliveries. Call: WITH PARKING SLOTS OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT: 137.50sqm. 10 am to 7 pm 3718/ (0918) 2010771 P1,800.00-P5,700.00/Week treatment (any type of SALCEDO PARK 179SQ.M LASER WHITENING please visit www.classicatower.com MANILA MARSIFOR hair) hair coloring, high- 29TH FLOOR, 3 BEDROOMS, 3T&B 854-1435/854-3826 Maid, Yaya, Cook, •General Dentistry JET SET UNFURNISHED WITH MAID’S ROOM AND or call Ghia @ 813-5862/ 0921-8337728 SPEAK TAGALOG/ 31 Bayview Dr. & Roxas Blvd. Driver, Office Assistant •Oral Surgery/Ortho lights, rebonding, relax, PARKING SLOT Welcomes You Well-screened & proper ENGLISH 1774 Evangelista St. FORBESWOOD HEIGHTS THE FORT 68SQ.M www.hotelmanila.com Pediatric/Perio haircut, hair perm, foot decorum with clearances www.tagalog-tutor.com Bangkal Makati 1 BEDROOM WITH PARKING,SEMI-FURNISHED CASA CAMILLA •TMJ (Temporo Man- and hand spa etc. A one- INTERNATIONAL Telephone Numbers HILLSBOROUGH ALABANG dibular Joint) (recommended by HOUSE & LOT FOR SALE BORACAY INTERDENOMINATIONAL 439-6435, 709-0367 stop state-of-the art salon 843-2207/ 889-0169 4 BEDROOM HOUSE HOUSE & LOT FOR SALE •Panoramic/Ceph/Peria- Diplomatic Bus. Dec. 1 to May 31 Beach EVANGELICAL DOLE PRPA LICENSE SEMI-FURNISHED, 2 CAR GARAGE pical X-Ray) Community) 0917-4120673 and barber shop is located NUMBER: M-05-00-101 ONE BURGUNDY PLAZA 62.37 SQ.M. Front Studio Apartments at 6751 G/F the Makati Tagaytay Overlooking Master in Housekeeping 2 BEDROOMS WITH PARKING w/ Kitchen P2,500/night VACATION/ RETIREMENT WORSHIP SERVICES: Philippine Antique Fur- 2Frontage 581sqm. 5BR Tuscany Condominium, UNIT 20 P. KATIPUNAN QUEZON CITY 4 persons P15,000/week HOME OR HOME AWAY 8:30a.m. - Contemporary nitures, Decors, Paint- MAGALLANES VILLAGE MAKATI 6TB Autogate 5CG 25M Ayala Avenue, Makati www.casacamillaboracay.com FROM THE CITY 10:30a.m - Traditional Most recommended ings, Clocks 532-7598/ 348 SQ.M. # 30 TRINIDAD 09175267235/ 844-1669 City Call: 888-4442 12:30p.m. - Blended drivers, maids, yayas, 0920-5508981 Cris 4 BEDROOMS, 4T&B, SEMI-FURNISHED Direct Buyers Only Angono Rizal LA 204m² tutor, janitor or any We accept credit card. MAID’S ROOM, NEWLY RENOVATED FOR RENT Joya Lofts Fully Furnished! 8BR MILLENIUM PLAZA 53 SQ.M. SUNDAY SCHOOL household help email: Rockwell Brand new, R.A. WESTERN FINANCIAL TAX MGMT. 25TH FLOOR, 1 BEDROOM UNIT, UNFURNISHED 5TB & 4-Car Garage CLASSES [email protected] by Manila-California Office w/ 39 yrs. experience ALABANG HILLS VILLAGE, TANAUNA ST. FOR SALE 2-bedroom, fully fur- with fireplace & chimney, 8:30a.m. 10:30a.m 12:30p.m. BRAND NEW TWO STOREY HOUSE 348 SQ.M. nished loft type. 96 sq. kitchen, dirty kitchen, U.S. PERSONAL & BUSINESS TAX SERVICE WITH 4 BEDROOMS AND 2 CAR GARAGE WAI-K AGENCY meters +639178915659/ COMMUNION BONDED & INSURED FOR YOUR PROTECTION MAID’S ROOM AND SEMI FURNISHED grill area, garden, grotto, We supply hardworking, BEAUTIFULLY, TOTALLY AND Wednesday - 12:15 pm CALL: 895-1777 LOCAL 1318/ 1604/1723 +6329178552463/ +6328925137 fishpond, lanai, attic & reliable speak english Additional extension of time for taxpayers out of the *BROKERS WELCOME* NEWLY RENOVATED housemaids, cooks,yaya, country. In addition to the 6-month extension, taxpayers view deck. Overlooking Ministries for Youth drivers, houseboy, care- who are out of the country can request a discretionary Apartment 180 SQ/MTS., 3-Bedrooms w/ 3 Bathrooms Eastridge Golf Course. 2-month additional extension of time to file their returns FOR RENT: THE ICON Jr. & Sr. High & Int’l. giver, nurse, messengers MAKATI CONDO APARTMENT/ (to Dec. 15 for calendar year taxpayers). RESIDENCES 2BR & Get peace & quiet with Young Adults Rada cor. Start anytime with clearances. SALE/LEASE CONDO FOR SALE 1-Maid’s Room with Bathroom laundry area with 1 park- security 5 minutes from Legaspi St. Makati City Open: Monday-Saturday WE HAVE DEALT W/ SELF-MADE MILLIONAIRES, Available 15th November 140sqm. AC Hws.-BR+1 8:00a.m.-6:00pm CALIFORNIA LOTTO WINNERS, PROF. GAMBLERS, ing 23H The Icon Resi- Thunderbird Resort & HOLLYWOOD PERFORMING ARTISTS & Furnished 3BR + Maid’s Master BR 3Bath,Dining www.unionchurch.ph Tel: 829-1728/ 567-4311 WHISTLEBLOWERS WHO MADE MILLIONS IN U.S. DOLLARS Quarter, 3 1/2 + Guest CR dences, The Fort, Global Casino Rizal, Village, R+Living R + Kitchen PLEASE CALL: 894-1371-72 812-6062; 812-5609 CP: 0928-6155468 MANILA OFFICE 280 sq.m. incl. 1 Parking City, Taguig. Fully Fur- Swimming Pools; 10 Robinsons Place Tower 2, P. Faura, Ermita Manila Laundry - 2 Balconies- Sermons available online [email protected] EliteProperties.net 0917- look for Andy or Myra (+63) 917-8381111/ (+63) 906-3309339/ (+63) 551-4897 nished with telephone minutes from Antipolo; 1 6131236 or 02-813-2592 New Fully Furnished Email: [email protected] & sky cable. Inclusive hour drive from Ortigas. Sending your line ad through Narra P4.6Million fax or email does not guarantee dues. 100K/month Call: Owners migrating 10M its publication. Payment must EAGLE ROCK, CALIFORNIA OFFICE 121m² 2BR 55K/month Call: 524-8105 or Email: DIRECT BUYERS ONLY be received every Tuesday (323) 258-4800/ (818) 730-7777 Fax (323) 259-5061 Frances at 889-7514 ELMER 0927-8392742 prior to publication Legaspi Village, ok [email protected] for ofc./ res. 72m² @ 32K/mo. 811-3183/ 811-3255 0917-8383726 expatexpatNEWSPAPER Lower Ground Floor, Legaspi Towers 100 148 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village, Makati City CLASSIFIED SECTION expatexpatNEWSPAPER Tel Nos. (02) 812 0987, 840 2996 LOT FOR SALE Fax (02) 840 2988 SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM BORACAY HILLTOP Date: 7 LOTS P6T/ M² Name Deliver to Address Name: 168M²/P1M to 688M²/P4M Address: 10Min. Walk White Beach Tel. No. Email: BORACAY 036-288-5309 Telephone: CATICLAN 1,200M² P2.4M Expat Brings Buyers and Sellers Paid Php Cash Check Both Properties on Concrete Together Every Two Weeks (Please make all cheques payable to Expat Communications, Inc.) Road All Access Elec, e fee is Php.175 for the first three lines and Php.50 per line thereafter. Please send me: Tel. Cable TV, Water A bargain! Wouldn’t you agree? Send Check to: Expat Communications, Inc. Hurry! Place your advertising now. WITHIN METRO MANILA (by mail) ASIA (airmail) LORNA 0928-250-1275 (Note: Please add 12% VAT to total cost) 26 Issues at Php2,000.00 (1 year subscription) 26 Issues at $100.00 (1 year subscription) MANILA 02-854-1435 Lower Ground Floor, Legaspi Towers 100, 148 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village, Makati City OUTSIDE METRO MANILA (by mail) U.S.A. (airmail) Tel Nos. (02) 812 0987, 840 2996 | Fax (02) 840 2988 26 Issues at Php3,000.00 (1 year subscription) 26 Issues at $125.00 (1 year subscription) [email protected] Email Address: [email protected] 10 expat newspaper DECEMBER 26-JANUARY 8, 2011 DECEMBER 26-JANUARY26, 2010 - JANUARY 8, 2011 8, 2011 expatexpat newspaper newspaper 1111 REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE SERVICES SERVICES SERVICES SERVICES SERVICES SERVICES

RENT/SALE RENT/SALE RENT/SALE RENT/SALE RENT/SALE RENT/SALE TUTORIAL/ PERSONAL CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES CHURCHES HOUSEHOLD DENTAL EDUCATIONAL DELIVERY

TOWNHOUSE EUROPACIFIC GLORIETTA VACANT RESIDENTIAL SPACE UNION HOSTEL/HOTEL Drivers, Housemaid, DENTAL CENTER DUTCH ALLURE PROPERTIES FOR LEASE CLASSICA TOWER Caregivers, Cook, Yaya, 24 Hour Airport Service. 3/F Mercury Drug Learn the language & LPG H.V. Dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati w/ NBI Clearance Back- Near All 4 Airports CHURCH Glorietta 3, Ayala Center pass the MVV exam. BEAUTY AND PACIFIC PLAZA AYALA 285SQ.M. FOR RENT: 1,2 & 3BR w/ parking ground Check FAST DELIVERY 38TH AND 20TH FLOOR, 3 BEDROOMS Tel. # 840-1898; BARBER SHOP Room Rates P300 to 833-6720/ 0917-6038007 For inquiries (02) 898- 2.7KG. 11KG. 50KG 3T&B, SEMI-FURNISHED, MAID’S ROOM Luxuriously furnished & renovated 556-9342 Clinic hours: P950.00/night OF Offers intensive hair & Bulk Deliveries. Call: WITH PARKING SLOTS OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT: 137.50sqm. 10 am to 7 pm 3718/ (0918) 2010771 P1,800.00-P5,700.00/Week treatment (any type of SALCEDO PARK 179SQ.M LASER WHITENING please visit www.classicatower.com MANILA MARSIFOR hair) hair coloring, high- 29TH FLOOR, 3 BEDROOMS, 3T&B 854-1435/854-3826 Maid, Yaya, Cook, •General Dentistry JET SET UNFURNISHED WITH MAID’S ROOM AND or call Ghia @ 813-5862/ 0921-8337728 SPEAK TAGALOG/ 31 Bayview Dr. & Roxas Blvd. Driver, Office Assistant •Oral Surgery/Ortho lights, rebonding, relax, PARKING SLOT Welcomes You Well-screened & proper ENGLISH 1774 Evangelista St. FORBESWOOD HEIGHTS THE FORT 68SQ.M www.hotelmanila.com Pediatric/Perio haircut, hair perm, foot decorum with clearances www.tagalog-tutor.com Bangkal Makati 1 BEDROOM WITH PARKING,SEMI-FURNISHED CASA CAMILLA •TMJ (Temporo Man- and hand spa etc. A one- INTERNATIONAL Telephone Numbers HILLSBOROUGH ALABANG dibular Joint) (recommended by HOUSE & LOT FOR SALE BORACAY INTERDENOMINATIONAL 439-6435, 709-0367 stop state-of-the art salon 843-2207/ 889-0169 4 BEDROOM HOUSE HOUSE & LOT FOR SALE •Panoramic/Ceph/Peria- Diplomatic Bus. Dec. 1 to May 31 Beach EVANGELICAL DOLE PRPA LICENSE SEMI-FURNISHED, 2 CAR GARAGE pical X-Ray) Community) 0917-4120673 and barber shop is located NUMBER: M-05-00-101 ONE BURGUNDY PLAZA 62.37 SQ.M. Front Studio Apartments at 6751 G/F the Makati Tagaytay Overlooking Master in Housekeeping 2 BEDROOMS WITH PARKING w/ Kitchen P2,500/night VACATION/ RETIREMENT WORSHIP SERVICES: Philippine Antique Fur- 2Frontage 581sqm. 5BR Tuscany Condominium, UNIT 20 P. KATIPUNAN QUEZON CITY 4 persons P15,000/week HOME OR HOME AWAY 8:30a.m. - Contemporary nitures, Decors, Paint- MAGALLANES VILLAGE MAKATI 6TB Autogate 5CG 25M Ayala Avenue, Makati www.casacamillaboracay.com FROM THE CITY 10:30a.m - Traditional Most recommended ings, Clocks 532-7598/ 348 SQ.M. # 30 TRINIDAD 09175267235/ 844-1669 City Call: 888-4442 12:30p.m. - Blended drivers, maids, yayas, 0920-5508981 Cris 4 BEDROOMS, 4T&B, SEMI-FURNISHED Direct Buyers Only Angono Rizal LA 204m² tutor, janitor or any We accept credit card. MAID’S ROOM, NEWLY RENOVATED FOR RENT Joya Lofts Fully Furnished! 8BR MILLENIUM PLAZA 53 SQ.M. SUNDAY SCHOOL household help email: Rockwell Brand new, R.A. WESTERN FINANCIAL TAX MGMT. 25TH FLOOR, 1 BEDROOM UNIT, UNFURNISHED 5TB & 4-Car Garage CLASSES [email protected] by Manila-California Office w/ 39 yrs. experience ALABANG HILLS VILLAGE, TANAUNA ST. FOR SALE 2-bedroom, fully fur- with fireplace & chimney, 8:30a.m. 10:30a.m 12:30p.m. BRAND NEW TWO STOREY HOUSE 348 SQ.M. nished loft type. 96 sq. kitchen, dirty kitchen, U.S. PERSONAL & BUSINESS TAX SERVICE WITH 4 BEDROOMS AND 2 CAR GARAGE WAI-K AGENCY meters +639178915659/ COMMUNION BONDED & INSURED FOR YOUR PROTECTION MAID’S ROOM AND SEMI FURNISHED grill area, garden, grotto, We supply hardworking, BEAUTIFULLY, TOTALLY AND Wednesday - 12:15 pm CALL: 895-1777 LOCAL 1318/ 1604/1723 +6329178552463/ +6328925137 fishpond, lanai, attic & reliable speak english Additional extension of time for taxpayers out of the *BROKERS WELCOME* NEWLY RENOVATED housemaids, cooks,yaya, country. In addition to the 6-month extension, taxpayers view deck. Overlooking Ministries for Youth drivers, houseboy, care- who are out of the country can request a discretionary Apartment 180 SQ/MTS., 3-Bedrooms w/ 3 Bathrooms Eastridge Golf Course. 2-month additional extension of time to file their returns FOR RENT: THE ICON Jr. & Sr. High & Int’l. giver, nurse, messengers MAKATI CONDO APARTMENT/ (to Dec. 15 for calendar year taxpayers). RESIDENCES 2BR & Get peace & quiet with Young Adults Rada cor. Start anytime with clearances. SALE/LEASE CONDO FOR SALE 1-Maid’s Room with Bathroom laundry area with 1 park- security 5 minutes from Legaspi St. Makati City Open: Monday-Saturday WE HAVE DEALT W/ SELF-MADE MILLIONAIRES, Available 15th November 140sqm. AC Hws.-BR+1 8:00a.m.-6:00pm CALIFORNIA LOTTO WINNERS, PROF. GAMBLERS, ing 23H The Icon Resi- Thunderbird Resort & HOLLYWOOD PERFORMING ARTISTS & Furnished 3BR + Maid’s Master BR 3Bath,Dining www.unionchurch.ph Tel: 829-1728/ 567-4311 WHISTLEBLOWERS WHO MADE MILLIONS IN U.S. DOLLARS Quarter, 3 1/2 + Guest CR dences, The Fort, Global Casino Rizal, Village, R+Living R + Kitchen PLEASE CALL: 894-1371-72 812-6062; 812-5609 CP: 0928-6155468 MANILA OFFICE 280 sq.m. incl. 1 Parking City, Taguig. Fully Fur- Swimming Pools; 10 Robinsons Place Tower 2, P. Faura, Ermita Manila Laundry - 2 Balconies- Sermons available online [email protected] EliteProperties.net 0917- look for Andy or Myra (+63) 917-8381111/ (+63) 906-3309339/ (+63) 551-4897 nished with telephone minutes from Antipolo; 1 6131236 or 02-813-2592 New Fully Furnished Email: [email protected] & sky cable. Inclusive hour drive from Ortigas. Sending your line ad through Narra P4.6Million fax or email does not guarantee dues. 100K/month Call: Owners migrating 10M its publication. Payment must EAGLE ROCK, CALIFORNIA OFFICE 121m² 2BR 55K/month Call: 524-8105 or Email: DIRECT BUYERS ONLY be received every Tuesday (323) 258-4800/ (818) 730-7777 Fax (323) 259-5061 Frances at 889-7514 ELMER 0927-8392742 prior to publication Legaspi Village, ok [email protected] for ofc./ res. 72m² @ 32K/mo. 811-3183/ 811-3255 0917-8383726 expatexpatNEWSPAPER Lower Ground Floor, Legaspi Towers 100 148 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village, Makati City CLASSIFIED SECTION expatexpatNEWSPAPER Tel Nos. (02) 812 0987, 840 2996 LOT FOR SALE Fax (02) 840 2988 SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM BORACAY HILLTOP Date: 7 LOTS P6T/ M² Name Deliver to Address Name: 168M²/P1M to 688M²/P4M Address: 10Min. Walk White Beach Tel. No. Email: BORACAY 036-288-5309 Telephone: CATICLAN 1,200M² P2.4M Expat Brings Buyers and Sellers Paid Php Cash Check Both Properties on Concrete Together Every Two Weeks (Please make all cheques payable to Expat Communications, Inc.) Road All Access Elec, e fee is Php.175 for the first three lines and Php.50 per line thereafter. Please send me: Tel. Cable TV, Water A bargain! Wouldn’t you agree? Send Check to: Expat Communications, Inc. Hurry! Place your advertising now. WITHIN METRO MANILA (by mail) ASIA (airmail) LORNA 0928-250-1275 (Note: Please add 12% VAT to total cost) 26 Issues at Php2,000.00 (1 year subscription) 26 Issues at $100.00 (1 year subscription) MANILA 02-854-1435 Lower Ground Floor, Legaspi Towers 100, 148 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village, Makati City OUTSIDE METRO MANILA (by mail) U.S.A. (airmail) Tel Nos. (02) 812 0987, 840 2996 | Fax (02) 840 2988 26 Issues at Php3,000.00 (1 year subscription) 26 Issues at $125.00 (1 year subscription) [email protected] Email Address: [email protected] 12 expat newspaper feature DECEMBER 26, 2010FEBRUARY - JANUARY 7 - 20, 8, 20102011 2010: The Tumultuous Year That Was By TIMOTHY JAY IBAY

2010 in the Philippines came in and brought with it an air of positivity. Maybe it was the looming presidential elections, perhaps it was the promise of ushering in a new decade, or it could just be the notion that with a new year comes the opportunity for a fresh start. Whatever it was, it was a welcome breeze from the trying times of 2009. We at Expat Newspaper did our best to keep you abreast with the relevant issues and trends that painted 2010.

A Display of Utter Futility Expat took a closer look at the backlash that the Quirino Grandstand Sources of Pride: The Old and hostage-taking brought about. Amidst the diplomatic conundrum, The New incident reviews, and a nationwide discussion on whose heads should 2010 found the country cele- roll, it was the tourism sector that took the direct and, perhaps, biggest brating two victories by pound- hit with Hong Kong, China and Taiwan cancelling almost all of their for-pound king of the ring Man- tours to the country. ny Pacquiao, as he tamed Joshua Clottey and Antonio Margarito on his way to his world-record Al Gore in Manila 8th world title. Massive Quake Hits Haiti Environmentalist and The country, to the surprise of The new decade couldn’t have been former US vice presi- Damaso just about everyone, also found any more unkind to Haiti as less than dent Al Gore visited the It took a man in a bowler reason to celebrate in football. two weeks into 2010, a devastating 7.0 country to speak further hat and offended religious No, that wasn’t a typo: the Phil- earthquake ravaged the entire Carib- on the pressing reality feelings, but the actions of ippine men’s football team final- bean nation, affecting over 3 million of that is climate change. one Carlos Celdran got the ly gave Filipinos something to its people. Expat shed light on how the It was made clear that country discussing an issue cheer about as they find them- country’s needs reach far beyond the “climate change” is no of utmost importance. It’s not selves in the semi-finals of the healthy amount of relief funds the entire longer just a buzz word, quite the storm it was then, Suzuki Cup for the first time. world sent their way. but a reality that’s here but the Reproductive Health to stay. Bill is still a touchy subject.

Shoot-out turned PR? The World Unites in Ondoy, A Year Later Shortly after American nation- South Africa Expat commemorated the tragedy that was typhoon Pilipinas Kay...Say What?? al Jason Ivler’s fit for Hollywood The world’s grandest Ondoy (international name Ketsana) in its review of The Department of Tourism, antics against the NBI gained sporting spectacle found a what has been done on the path to recovery and what still reeling from the effects of the nationwide notoriety, his home this year in beauti- still needs to be addressed. It found that there were a hostage crisis and various travel mother Marlene Aguilar, found ful South Africa. Upsets, lot of both. While the numbers seem impressive, local advisories, had the “non-launch” it a convenient time to foray into vuvuzelas and a clairvoyant governments admit that there is still more to be done. of its new campaign shelved in the literary scene. Expat took octopus marked this year’s the face of a deluge of criticism. notice of her book “Warriors World Cup, which ended Now there’s another controversy of Heaven”, a staunch display of with Spain raising the hard- brewing on the bidding for the the undeniable passion of this ware for the first time ever. national Tourism Development controversial woman. Plan. Sometimes, all you can really say to this dilemma is WOW. Automation: Anxiety and Exultation As the May 2010 elections drew closer, the country hoped for the best, but was more or less expecting the worst. Fortunately, though, the entire country perse- vered through insufferable heat and excruciatingly long lines to prove doomsday forecasters wrong, inaugurating as its 15th President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III in a largely smooth election…or so the headlines said.

Expat Evolves In our continuing effort to be the voice of the expatriate community, we at Expat intro- duced a number of innovations this year. Ex- pat Newspaper does its part for the environ- ment with its regular “Expat and the Earth” section, while netizens can keep updated by following us on Twitter and Wordpress. Meanwhile, a revitalized Expat Travel & Lifestyle magazine burst onto newsstands in the latter half of 2010 to much praise. We promise to continue bringing you, our read- ers, all the latest and best in expat-related hap- penings come 2011. Happy New Year to all! JANUARYDECEMBER 24 26, - FEBRUARY 2010 - JANUARY 6, 2010 8, 2011 expat newspaper 13 An Inspiring Journey of Hope It was one heartwarming welcome to the traditional Christmas as Marco Polo Plaza Cebu (MPPC), the only five-star hotel in Cebu City, recently held the annual lighting of its Tree of Hope and launching of the Train of Hope, two charitable projects for the benefit of the cancer-stricken children supported by the KYTHE and Kapuso foundations. Leading the joyful occasion were affable MPPC general manager Hans Hauri, guest of honor senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, GMA 7 Cebu station manager Ann Marie Tan, Model-Railway owners Clayton and Joji Tugonon, and KYTHE Foundation director sister Lucilla Perpiñan, SPC. Have a blessed Christmas from MPCC!

(Left to right) Leading the ceremonial ringing of the bell to flag-off the Train of Hope are (from left) Marco Polo Plaza Cebu general manager Hans Hauri, guest of honor senator Tito Sotto III, Bo Hauri, Model-Railway owner Clayton Tugonon, KYTHE Foundation director sister Lucilla Perip- iñan, SPC, and Model-Railway owner Joji Tugonon; Your columnist (extreme right) with (from left) Jessica Tauto-an, Hale Lanawan with the jolly Santa Clauses Fleming and Elisabet Hansen; Agnes and Gregg Huettel with daughter Allison together with Tanya and Brenden McCarthy with daughter Stella; Cebu International School’s (CIS) The Really Wonderful Dance Company renders a phenomenal performance A Scintillating Evening at Caruso A Notable Day at the Lagoon Bringing in the rich, vibrant flavors of Italy, Caruso, the authentic Italian restaurant in It was a bright day filled with jovial spirits as some of the most notable personalities from Makati led by genial co-owner Dario Gardini, recently launched its first ever “Wine and various fields recently trooped to the exquisite Regency Lagoon Resort in Boracay. Led Cheese” night. Guests truly had a marvelous time as they were treated to a vast array of fine by the brilliant and visionary Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Convention Center cheeses and succulent cold cuts perfectly paired with premium, smooth wines from the chairman Henry Chusuey, the resort became an instant attraction to society’s A-listers various regions of Italy. Congratulations! Wine and Cheese night happens every Tuesday with its stunning beauty, impeccable service and unique features including a 1,200 square from 8:00 p.m. onwards. (Caruso is located at 210 LRI Building Nicanor Garcia Street, meter swimming pool. Welcome to paradise! Cheers! Bel-Air Village, Makati City. For inquiries, call 895-2451) (top) Ambassador Manuel Teehankee, senator Franklin Drilon, Embassy of Venezuela chargé d’ affaires Manuel Perez Iturbe; Regency La- goon Resort’s Alfons Chusuey with WBA World Super Fly- weight Interim cham- pion Nonito Donaire; (left to right) Bari- tenor Jack Salud with wife Kazue enjoying the al fresco dining and cocktail area of the Regency Lagoon Resort adjacent to the 1,200 square meter lagoon-inspired swim- ming pool

(top) Jayelles president Roselle Rebano with Margie Moran Floirendo, Dolly Borlongan, genial Caruso co-owner Dario Gardini, Vickie Perez de Tagle and Cora Cor- pus; (left to right) Enjoy- ing the splendid evening (standing) Kamla Jeswani; (seated) Ken and Chatru Jeswani; Diwi Castaños sampling the fine array of cheeses and succulent cold cuts served during the night 14 expat newspaper feature DECEMBER 26, 2010FEBRUARY - JANUARY 7 - 20, 8, 20102011

By RAYDON L. REYES ByA RAYDON Truly L. REYES Social Network The Circus is in Town animal safety have no reason to alert their Street children are given snacks after and technical capacity to access internet “Ladies and gentlemen, children their computer session activist friends just yet. There are no lions, and computers, and in terms of producing of all ages…” bellows Grand American Circus’ Cornell “Tuffy” Nicholas, clad in elephants or monkeys in the show. “This is blogs. It’s quite exceptional,” he shares. an animal-less circus,” states Cornell. That He first came to the Philippines more complete ringmaster outfit in front of an ironically business-casual press-con. You means the humans do all the entertaining. than 20 years ago when he married a Fili- Isn’t that swell? pina. Through the years, he began noticing already know what he’s going to say next– something about death-defying acts and So bring out that inner child and tell your the potential of using information commu- friends that the circus is in town. nication technology as a tool for changing being the greatest entertainment on earth. the lives of low-income families in informal “We have everything from the best clowns settlements. in the business to trapeze artists,” he adds. But if you’re one of those postmodern Balancing acts have been a classic in CLT started its operation in Parañaque circuses around the world and has now branched out into eight learn- skeptics who think that circuses are ob- ing centers across Metro Manila. Their solete, then you need to see these guys at equipment consists mostly of old versions of the SMX Convention Center in Pasay by desktop computers or laptops from abroad. January 12. Adhering to a “modern circus Sometimes, they even get faulty or broken format”, it incorporates contemporary pop equipment that should have been taken to culture references along with its line-up of the junk shop years ago. Mannion relates, classic acts such as acrobatics, Argentinian “It’s not always easy to get donations. You gauchos, fire juggling and wheels of death, really have to be patient. But so far, so good. among others. s surprising as it sounds, a lot of We have computers and some internet con- Take one of its highlights: the Michael street children in Manila actually nectivity.” Jackson tribute. With many other artists know how to use the computer. Most of their volunteers come from honoring the late King of Pop, the aptly In fact, “The street kids I’m serving actu- schools in the area such as the Internation- named Jackson-impersonator Michael A Kiss (trust us, you wouldn’t know the differ- ally knew how to go to Youtube and find al School of Manila and De La Salle Uni- Justin Bieber. So they were somewhat al- versity, among others. There are also some ence) adds a twist to his own performance ready connected,” quips British-born Jon volunteers of various nationalities who help by combining Las Vegas music and special Mannion. “The challenge is to show them cook and distribute food during the learning effects that would have made the “Thriller” the positive areas of the internet that will sessions as well as play with the kids during singer himself proud. provide opportunities for their learning.” their free time. “By next year, we’re think- Of course, no circus would ever be com- Mannion is referring to the children un- ing of having 200 volunteers and setting up plete without the clowns and the illusionists der Constructing Learning through Tech- a training center. Several labs have already to add some slapstick and sparkle to Grand nology or CLT, a non-profit organization been built. The aim now is to consolidate American Circus’ overall act. And if that’s that he founded a year ago to help out-of- our growth and come up with a bigger net- not enough to get you hooked, you can treat school youths attain a non-formal educa- work to reach into,” Mannion stresses. your eyes to the sight of aerial ballet dancers tion through information technology. “The If you wish to donate or volunteer, visit who make swinging in the air look like a Philippines is an unusual country in that www.outofschoollearning.org. You can walk in the park. many people are online and the awareness make it your first New Year’s resolution. Furthermore, those concerned with JANUARYDECEMBER 24 26, - FEBRUARY 2010 - JANUARY 6, 2010 8, 2011 expat newspaper 1315 cultural calendar Compiled by CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA ByLee ASTRA Aguinaldo:C. ALEGRE A Revelation ee Aguinaldo who? Perhaps his mixed media works incorporating photo- name does not easily ring a bell, graphs. He evades a usual mode of compre- unlike such giants of the Philip- hension.” A self-portrait reveals Lee’s sense Lpine art world like Fernando Amorsolo of humor: on a black background, only the or Vicente Manansala, who incidentally artist’s face is seen with his tongue sticking was a contemporary and with whom Lee out, “as if taunting the viewer.” had exhibited some of his works. But “There are a lot of private collectors who that may soon change, with the atten- have been generous enough to loan us their tion now given to this modern abstract artworks for the three and a half months’ artist who “did so much more than ab- run of the exhibition,” Chikiamco noted. straction,” as observed by Clarissa Chi- “The most significant loan though came kiamco, who together with Victoria from Lee’s family. We also used the works “Boots” Herrera are curating the artist’s of Lee in the Ateneo Art Gallery collection ongoing exhibit at the Ateneo Art Gallery. which are really quite stunning pieces.” Leopoldo “Lee” Aguinaldo II (1933-2007) She concludes, “This is a wonderful op- was among the first generation of abstrac- portunity for an older generation to revisit tionists in the country who gained acclaim his works and discover new aspects to Lee in art circles in the 1950s to the 1970s. To as an artist. For the young, it serves as an celebrate its 50th anniversary, the Ateneo introduction to one of the most important Salamin ng Kahapon by Jeff Salon Anino’t Pangarap by Jeff Salon Art Gallery’s “Lee Aguinaldo: In Retro- and interesting Filipino artists of the sec- spect” exhibit gathers over 150 works by ond half of the 20th century.” Kisapmata (Blink of an Eye) the man who, at one time, Fernando Zobel The exhibition runs until February 5, 2011; de Ayala described as “a genius”. Inciden- the gallery is closed from December 19, 2010 to Four artists get together to exhibit their respective paintings that focus on tally, Zobel de Ayala’s donation of over 200 January 5, 2011. A book about the art and life Philippine culture. They are Nica Acantilado, Rommel Ramota, Ronald Jeresano paintings forms the core of the collection. of Lee Aguinaldo will be launched by the first and Jeff Salon. Ongoing until January 3, Sigwada Gallery, 1921 Oroquieta, Sta. A self-taught, multi-award wining artist, week of February. Cruz, Manila; phone 743-5873 among Lee’s biggest influences was Jackson Pollock, a major figure in the American ab- stract expressionist movement. Lee is also known for his hard-edged and color field paintings. “I think what is so appealing to me about Lee is, he was an artist who con- stantly challenged himself. He is known for being a modern abstract artist but he did so much more than abstraction,” Chikiamco remarked. “He did a lot of figurative works too. He was a consummate drawer, he made pop art using collage and frottage, he made

EXPAT ADVERTISING

An object of art Home Art

An exhibition of a collection of elegantly crafted space fillers and table top décor items is presented by Hans Brumann and Flordeliza Español Baradi. Ongoing until January 10 at Galerie Hans Brumann, Greenbelt 5, Makati; phone 728-2175.

Close Quarters Robert Ryker: Character Portraits

Frankie Callaghan presents his outdoor Eminent American conductor Robert photo installation at the back façade of Rÿker returns to conduct the Philippine the University of the Philippines Film Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) to Center. Ongoing until January 10 at the welcome the year 2011. His program said center, Diliman, Quezon City; phone includes Alfred Reed’s Hamlet, A 920-7990 Symphonic Suite after Shakespeare, Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition Six 6, Review and Elgar’s Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 36, Enigma Variations. The Artists Frankie Callaghan, Wawi concert begins at 8 p.m. on January 14; Navarroza, Neal Oshima, Rachel Rillo, Cultural Center of the Philippines, Roxas Steve Tirona and Denise Weldon Boulevard, Metro Manila; phone 832- present their recent artworks to mark 1125 to 39 Silverlens Gallery’s sixth anniversary. Ongoing until January 12. Mariano Artista ng Bayan (People’s Artist) Ching, Christina Dy, Patricia Eustaquio and Gary-Ross Pastrana showcase The Concerned Artists of the their respective artworks that had been Philippines (CAP) presents a traveling exhibited abroad. Ongoing until January exhibit highlighting the role of artists 15; both exhibits are at Silverlens Gallery, as catalysts and movers for social 2320 Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati; change and nation building. Ongoing phone 816-0044 until January 30, Cultural Center of the Philippines. DECEMBER 26, 2010FEBRUARY - JANUARY 7 - 20, 8, 20102011

As 2010 comes to a close, it is probably the best time to reflect on events of the year past and to plan for the one to come. Since no one is an island, we here at Expat want to know: What good deed do you resolve to do for others in 2011?

Christian Meerschman Ananta Rivas Ambassador of Belgium to the Philippines Mexican Resort consultant At my age I can still think as a boy scout: Before I can share one small good deed love with others, at a time goes a long I need to nurture way. Here I step on peace within myself the footprints of our first. And that’s what Belgian fathers and I plan to do more of sisters who since for the coming year. more than hundred years lived in your To be more in tune with myself and the cos- beautiful country to assist the people im- mos…listen more, feel more, share more. proving their lives. But on the bigger plan, and being a diplomat, I stand for improving the political and economic ties between our two countries.

Wayne Ramschie Maricar R. Gabriel Indonesian Filipino Student, Adventist University of the Philip- Researcher pines Be more giving. I I want to become a wish to be more better person, first of generous with my all for God, also for time, money and self. my family, friends Spend more time in and my loved ones. I the service of others want to give my best and friends. Stretch in serving people through the organi- my self-imposed lim- zations which I join, and I want to do some- it and be more patient and understanding thing so people can follow that a success is a especially to those most in need, whether journey not a destination. it be to somebody I personally know or the nameless beggar on the street.

Brian Lane Supreeya Sintam Irish Thai VP of sales and marketing, Asian Tigers Lane Purchasing Officer, Kimball Electronics Moving & Storage Thailand

My New Year’s reso- I will try to teach lution for 2011 is to people how to save do what I promise to the world and tell do, in all respects! them that we can make whatever New Year’s resolutions for ourselves that we want.

MMQ Gives Back for the Holidays Members of the boards of both multicultural theater group MMQ and the SAGIP wom- en and children’s center, as well as SAGIP staff and sponsors from Fridays Resorts Bo- racay, joined together to celebrate the dona- tion by MMQ of PHP 500,000 to the shelter from the former’s 4th annual Le Cirque du Cabaret gala. The cel- ebration was joined in by some of the women and children helped by the center. MMQ had also recently inaugurated a school for Aetas funded from proceeds of the group’s 2nd Le Cabaret in 2008. Seen in the photo are MMQ president Michelle Washington and vice president Sandra Tockes (3rd and 4th from left) along with SAGIP president Menchu Henson (5th from left).