2011: the Year of Transport Fares Increase

TRAVEL EVENTS PEOPLE Marinduque is perfect for Angola celebrates its Vanessa Suatengco a diamond a romantic getaway. 2 brigh, golden future. 4 in the hotel industry. 9

Legend of India AUTHENTIC INDIAN CUISINE

Where the Food is LEGENDARY! expatNEWSPAPER 114B Jupiter St, Bel-air II, Makati City expatexpat Email: [email protected] Tel: 836-42-32/211-9864 January 30 - February 12, 2011 Vol. XXVI No. 134 expatphilippines.wordpress.com Mobile: 0917-8992566 Present this ad and get a 10% discount. THE PHILIPPINES FORUM FOR INTERNATIONAL READERS SINCE 1981 Valid until March 31, 2011. 2011: The Year of Transport Fares Increase By TIMOTHY JAY IBAY bit lower with stored-value ticket users facing an average of 33.7 percent fare increase, while hile fare increases have been in single-journey ticket users have it pegged at the works for a while now, hav- 50.3 percent. As of this writing, the Depart- ing withstood TROs, hearings ment of Transportation and Communication Wand general public opposition, 2011 will (DOTC) has yet to release the proposed fare finally see them for the Light Rail Tran- matrix for the MRT Line 3. sit (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit (MRT), In his first State of the Nation Address, Metro Manila taxi cabs, and the new South President Aquino pointed out that ordinary Luzon Expressway toll fees implement- tax payers, including those who live outside ed. The increases are far from marginal. the Metro, have been forced to foot the bill The LRT/MRT fares under the recently of the rising costs of running the trains due to approved fare matrix will go up by an average previous administrations’ refusal to hike fares. of 56 percent. And those figures are just for Taxi fares will now have a 40 Php flag-down those using stored-value tickets. Some trips rate, up from 30 Php, while also increasing the for single-journey ticket users have as much rate per succeeding kilometer to 3.50 Php, pre- as 100 percent increases (e.g. LRT 1’s Quirino viously at 2.50. While this may initially sound to Tayuman, from 15 Php to 30Php). On the like welcome news for cab drivers to help them average, the LRT Line 1 (covering Roosevelt combat the continually rising fuel prices (now station to EDSA station, north to south) fare at around 50 Php for unleaded gas from 43 Php increases for stored-value ticket users is at 34.7 in mid-December), some drivers are prepared percent, and at 52.6 percent for single-journey for taxi operators decreasing this benefit by ticket users. For the LRT Line 2 (Legarda sta- raising their daily “boundaries” as well. This al- tion to Santolan station), the increases are a Metro commuters face rising costs. Photo by Francess Nicholeen Labrador most seems inevitable since the page 6

EXPAT AND THE EARTH Nineteen Philippine Crocodiles Back Into The Wild By TIMOTHY JAY IBAY

ecent events have led to the main- tion of less than 100 mature individuals. It is program were the creations of specific release be communally kept in these ponds prior to stream media painting a picture of considered to be the most severely threatened ponds in the crocodile habitat management release in the wild, enabling them to adapt to unrest throughout the metro. In crocodile species in the world by the Inter- zone of the Northern Sierra Madre Natural natural conditions in a safe environment and theseR times, every little piece of good news is national Union for Conservation of Nature, Park, from where the released crocodiles can allowing them to be better prepared for the much welcomed. The Mabuwaya Foundation Species Survival Commission (IUCN SSC) colonize the surrounding area. Forty-nine wild and increasing their chances of survival from the combined Tagalog words of mabu- Crocodile Specialist Group and it is there- head-started juvenile Philippine crocodiles after release. hay meaning live long and buwaya croco- fore on top of their priority list of crocodilians have so far been reintroduced back into the dile has recently provided such. needing conservation action. wild. Another 39, currently in captivity, The new Municipal Philippine Crocodile The Mabuwaya Foundation, which spear- await reintroduction. Rearing Station in San Mariano, Isabela was re- headed emergency aid efforts late last year in Newly established soft-release ponds cently inaugurated. As part of the ceremonies Isabela post-super typhoon Juan (internation- are banked on as a new strategy to further later that day, 19 Philippine crocodiles were al code name Megi) has been behind the im- increase the survival rates of these croco- released back into the wild in the Northern plementation of community-based Philippine diles. These concrete ponds just outside the Sierra Madre Natural Park. crocodile conservation projects in the munici- rearing station are made to resemble natural The Philippine crocodile (Crocodylus pality of San Mariano, Isabela Province. habitat. They are stocked with live prey (fish, mindorensis) is a critically endangered fresh- Stemming from their 2005 project of nest shrimps, snails, etc.) with basking sites also water species with an estimated wild popula- protection, head-start and habitat restoration provided. The head-started crocodiles will 2 > TRAVEL JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 EXPAT NEWSPAPER Marinduque: The Heart Island Text and Photos by RAYDON L. REYES

owadays, the first thing that comes how much the island is suited particularly for to people’s mind when they think couples who want to escape from the other of Marinduque is Bellaroca in El- popular beaches that are dense with tourists. ephantN island. While it is a great hotel with After all, isn’t it true that romance blooms in a unique concept that most travellers would secret? “The best thing about the island is that love, the Santorini look-alike is not the only there aren’t that many crowds, so couples can beauty in the island. Allow us to give you enjoy their time by themselves. Hotel rates some tidbits and take you to a few undis- and entrance fees to the beaches are also very covered spots in Marinduque that stray far cheap, so they can tour the whole island and away from the capital’s very own Moriones stay for three days for as low as Php 6000. That Festival–enough to convince you that it’s includes the food as well,” says Benildo Lar- the place to be this coming Valentines Day. gado, counsellor in the municipality of Boac.

Of hearts, petals, and forbidden loves Don’t mind the smell of eggs Besides its shape, there’s another reason Spas in Manila that use sulfur products why Marinduque is often referred to as the is- would usually charge a small fortune from you land of lovers. Legend has it that it arose when per session. But in Malbog Sulfur Springs at two lovers—Mariin and Gatduke—drowned Buenavista in the southern part of Marindu- themselves in the sea while trying to escape que, you need only to pay an entrance fee from their families, who didn’t approve of of 20 pesos to enjoy the same benefits. This their relationship. Call it the Philippine ver- collection of natural sulfur springs is right be- sion of Romeo and Juliet. side the now dormant volcano Mt. Malindig, Flowers, another common symbol for which is the source of the water and the natu- love, are prominent in the ritual called Pu- ral mineral that’s said to be good for treating tong. This custom includes Marinduqueños ailments in the skin such as eczema, psoriasis, singing and dancing around visitors of the is- and acne. land while throwing petals in the air towards Visitors who intend to stay for a few hours them. Perhaps these factoids already reveal can make use of the nipa huts surrounding

Because of its isolated location and intimate attractions such as the Poctoy White Beach, Caganhao sea floor, and sulfur springs, Marinduque is the perfect getaway place this coming Valentine's Day. JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 TRAVEL < 3 EXPAT NEWSPAPER

the springs, although they might need to go with no additional charge. There’s also the 10- only to enjoy the unique experience of seeing Steaming in the night to another destination in the island to enjoy peso halo-halo and mango shake to wash it all the sunset while sitting on the coral reefs. Because of the wind coming from the their lunch. Sulfur actually smells like boiling down before you go swimming (don’t forget Every four in the afternoon until dusk, sea, it can get very cold in the island at night eggs and this might offset the aroma of the to wait an hour before you go into the water). the sea floor would rise up because of the low even during summertime. If you want to heat food you would be carrying. It might be best Be sure to bring your snorkelling equip- tide, giving you the chance to walk towards things up, you can go back to Malbog and to go early in the morning and to just sit back, ment so you can go to the beach’s border the corals and see the various sea creatures check in the Hot Springs Resort. The hot wa- take a dip, and enjoy the view of a zen-like and look at the coral reefs. After you bathe without even getting your hair wet (just be ter comes from the same Mt. Malindig that garden, myriad trees, and the occasional goats in the bright-blue water, you can rent a hut careful of sea urchins). Catch crabs, fishes, the sulfur spring draws from, but the sulfur in from the surrounding farms. An hour or two that has a karaoke machine inside. Don’t starfishes, and sand dollars in their natural en- the resort has lower concentrations. should be enough to get that glow you and be afraid to belt out your feelings because vironment as you find a perfect spot for you You might need to dip your foot for a few your companion are looking for before you there are hardly any people in Poctoy as and your loved one to sit and wait for the sun seconds to get used to the temperature, but set off for the beach. compared to other beaches like Boracay and to go down. once you make it in, you’ll definitely breathe Puerto Galera. Maybe you and your part- To sweeten the whole scene, perhaps you a sigh of relief as you feel the stress wash away Eat, swim, sing ner can do a duet of the song that brought can bring some native uraro cookies made and go up in the steam. The resort itself is in The best thing is the kilometer-long Poc- the two of you together in the first place. from arrowroot crops. Having been around the middle of the woods and the huts and toy White Beach in the municipality of Torri- for more than six decades now, uraro biscuits rooms are made of bamboo, giving you that jos. Besides the white sand, the coconut trees, A cliché, with a twist have been enjoyed by different generations authentic feel of island living. and the fantastic view of mountains, there ‘s The Caganhao Beach in Boac is not meant of Filipino cookie lovers through the years. So to honeymooners and travellers on a the food. Provided that you bring your own for swimming. Rocks and shells take the place The bakery that produces them was prima- budget, follow your “heart” and see Marindu- drinks, you can feed up to five to six people of fine sand so you will need to wear slippers rily established in 1946 by the Rejano family que in its truest form–beyond the Greek and with a mere 100-peso budget. A large bangus while walking along the shore. However, it in Boac, and their business of making baked Spanish influences it is known for. or milkfish only costs about 20 pesos, and the might be the one beach in Marinduque that goods founded on the uraro root is still boom- For more information, contact Jing Loto from vendors would even stuff and grill it for you you would frequent most during your stay, if ing up to this day. Boac municipality. 4 > EVENTS JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 EXPAT NEWSPAPER

Angola Strikes it Rich Text and Photos by JAHZEEL ABIHAIL G. CRUZ he African nation of Angola could advances in building government institutions. very well be the envy of the conti- With shared history of colonization with nent where natural resources are con- the Philippines (Angola was a Portuguese col- Tcerned. It is the second largest oil producer ony for four centuries as the Philippines was in sub-Sahara, and rests on land rich in dia- one of Spain), the two have enjoyed friendly monds and many other minerals, all ripe for bilateral and business relations over the years. mining. At the young age of 35, then, Angola In addition to mineral resource wealth, Angola has much to look forward to, as its Embassy also has budding industries in timber, fishery, here attested to during a recent reception at- manufacturing and agriculture. Key policies tended by friends in the diplomatic circle. to attract further investment and develop sup- In his message for the occasion, Ango- porting infrastructure, especially in electricity lan Ambassador Flavio Fonseca remarked that generation, transportation and telecommuni- economic growth in his country had consist- cation, are underway. ently been one of the highest in the world in the All in all, the night was cheerful and op- 2000s. It had also adopted a new Constitution timistic – befitting, it seems, the bright future in February 2010, seen to concretize ongoing that lies ahead for Angola.

Angolan Amb. Flavio Saraiva de Carvalho Fonseca (right) toasts to the occasion UAE Amb. Moosa Albdulwahid Alkahaja and Indian Amb. Yogendra Kumar

Philippine Supreme Court’s Milagros Ong with Howard and Cristina Belton

German Embassy’s Jürgen Tho- US Embassy’s Arthur Keating and Embassy of Nigeria’s Mohammed Manu and Bangladesh Amb. Majeda Rafiqun Nessa, Brunei Amb. Malai Hajah Hali- mas Schrod and Iris Schrod Kimberly Skoglund A.O. Babalola Embassy of Cuba’s Maite Perez and Mme. Soledad Arias mah Malia Haji Yussof, and South African Amb. Agnes Nyamande-Pitso JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 BUSINESS < 5 EXPAT NEWSPAPER European Chamber of Com- merce Launches Website economy & business By CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA By CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA

new and important website has curately their business and most importantly, Agricultural Economy just been added to the internet. enjoy the experience of being easily found on Log on to http://www.eccp.com the internet using tags.” Contrary to general belief, a country reveal skeletons in the closet, as it were, PoweredA by Webtalk, it is now a new busi- does not need to be highly industrialized but it is not our purpose here to dwell on ness transaction tool of the more than 700 Voice One Asia in order to be self-sufficient and have a the culture of graft and corruption or the members of the European Chamber of Webtalk, whose service provider is Voice well-fed population. It is in fact agricul- government’s ineptness. Much needs to Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP). One Asia, is the first complete and fully func- ture that forms the matrix of economic be done. There is the ironic scenario of The new website was developed to enable tional communication service that connects prosperity. Thus has lived mankind for large fishes and crustaceans caught in European businessmen in the country to have customers, partners and employees anywhere numerous centuries prior to the dawn Philippine seas and exported to where easier and better access to one another. Now, and anytime in the world via the web. It in- of industrialization in the 19th century. chefs cook them to the delight of already they can link their own respective companies’ creases productivity, widens customer reach, This is especially true in the tropics satiated palates in the big cities or other website to the ECCP website to benefit from implements cost-efficient inbound and- out where winter is unknown and it is sunny wealthy countries while Philippine fish- email connections with other members, as bound sales and customer service activities, weather the whole year through. This ermen and their brood never get to enjoy well as with the rest of the world. This is what and maximizes opportunities for new business was the reason for the beginning in the their bounty. The best catches of fish are is known as business to business connection. relationships. 15th century of Western inroads to the earmarked for abroad. The best harvests One of the important functions of the Henry Schumacher, ECCP’s executive East where spices, fruits, root crops, leafy of fruits are targeted for foreign soil. The ECCP is to help strengthen commercial and vice president, said: “Through this partner- vegetables and other comestibles always remnants that are not sufficiently big, investment relations between companies in ship with Voice One Asia and the integration abounded. Gold may dazzle the eye, but sweet, nor savory become the fare of the Europe and the Philippines. Special programs of the Webtalk Directory into our website, we even the dazzled have to eat. people in whose country they were culti- have been developed to identify partners in give our members the technological edge they In its policy-making and budgetary vated and harvested. technology, production, subcontracting, dis- need in the global business scene. With this proposal, the government would do well There actually exists a group that tribution or joint ventures. Counseling and service, they are afforded an easy and cost-ef- to take into account that the agricultural urges journalists to write feature stories linkages to support facilities are also part of fective means of remaining visible and within landscape is a component of the coun- on agriculture that would generate na- the ECCP’s services. reach of customers and partners.” try’s economy. The Philippines is an tionwide interest, engagement and sup- According to Hubert d’Aboville, ECCP The Philippines is the first country in Asia agriculturally rich country with almost port. The group gives annual awards to president: “Our members were provided with where Webtalk has been introduced. Cyril unlimited potentials along this line. Con- journalists for excellent articles on how a free Webtalk directory account so they can Rocke, president of Voice One Asia, said that sider that the agricultural sector employs agriculture can make a difference in the explore the basic features of the website and the company will soon introduce Webtalk more than one-third of the work force, lives of Filipinos. Last year such winning start promoting their own brand, describe ac- elsewhere on the continent. and yet the curious fact remains that it journalists as Gloria Tuazon of Cordill- provides less than a fifth of the country’s era Today wrote that healing oil can be agricultural products. Some observers produced from lemongrass, and this can have pinpointed to low budgetary allo- impact both health and the economy. cation, lack of financing and inadequate There is also the story by Francis Marin infrastructure as the problem. of the High Plains Journal who wrote DENR to Act Swiftly on Pending Be that as it may, the question may be of indigenous farming practices in the raised: Why do the country’s agricultural Cordillera. The Bright Leaf Agriculture Mining Applications products not suffice to help end hunger Journalism awards deserves kudos for among the population? The answers this truly vital advocacy. he Department of Environment for an average of ten years or more. The DENR may open collaterally a Pandora’s box or and Natural Resources (DENR) is to carry out strictly the so-called “three let- has directed all its regional direc- ter-notice policy” in exacting compliance with torsT of the Mines and Geo-sciences Bureau all the requirements by the applicants, with a (MGB) to cleanse their respective regions of maximum interval of 30 days between these all pending and inactive mining applications letters-notices. U.K. Energy, Makati Government this year, setting two deadlines on Febru- Among the requirements in filing for min- Push for Efficient Investments ary 20, 2011 for the first 50%, and on De- ing applications include the acquisition of Free he British Embassy, in cooperation programme is British Embassy’s Economic At- cember 2011 for the remaining 50 percent. and Prior Informed Consent by the rightful with the Makati City Government, is taché, Mark Canlas to discuss his research titled, DENR Secretary Ramon Paje explained indigenous peoples concerned as certified by hosting a forum entitled “Addressing Cli- “Fossil Fuel Subsidies in Southeast Asia.” that the cleansing of aging mining applications the National Commission on Indigenous Peo- mateT Change through Energy Efficiency Invest- Arup, a firm of designers, planners, engi- is part of the anti-corruption program within ples. The mining applicant must also submit ments” on February 2 at the Makati City Hall. neers, consultants and technical specialists, is the DENR itself. Mining applications that are proofs of consultation with the local govern- The forum marks the launch of a study ti- represented by their Managing Director Raul not able to comply with all the requirements ment untis within two years from the date of tled, “Market Feasibility Report on Energy Ef- Manlapig, who will discuss “Building Sustain- set by the government will be cancelled, as well acceptance of the mining application, and the ficiency in Southeast Asia: Investment Oppor- ability – Energy Efficient Design” as part of their as those mining tenements that have remained completion of publication, posting and radio tunities,” which tackles how energy efficiency environmental awareness initiatives. inactive and unproductive for a long time. This announcement within one year from the date opens doors to new investment opportunities A presentation by Makati’s consultant on is a reform move to block off opportunities for of acceptance of the mining application. Fail- in six South East Asian countries, namely Sin- transport and traffic management, Ernesto applicants to bribe DENR personnel and for ure on the part of the applicant to comply with gapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia Camarillo, will highlight the initiatives the city the DENR to receive bribes. any of the requirements shall be a ground for and the Philippines. The Philippines will be the is taking for a more environmentally-friendly MGB records show that there are currently the denial of the mining permit. first to launch the study, which will be presented future, which include the launch of the electric 2,180 mining tenement applications that re- by Managing Director of ReEx Capital Asia Pte tricycles and other energy efficient projects. For main pending in various MGB regional offices Ltd, Frédéric Crampé. Also presenting in the details call (02) 858-2200 6 > NEWS JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 EXPAT NEWSPAPER Foreign Students in Conflict Management expatexpatexpatNEWSPAPER Visit the Philippines By ASTRA C. ALEGRE The Philippines’ forum for international readers since 1981

group of 20 students from Johns dition that their Murray Hertz Hopkin’s University School of children stay in Editorial & Publishing Consultant Advanced International Studies school. “The inA Washington were recent visitors in the simple answer is Butch C. Bonsol country as part of their course in conflict to start working President & Managing Director management. “Every year we travel to on self-help, on different parts of the world that experi- the self-reliance ence conflict” Professor Philip Hopmann aspect,” Pres. Ra- Katrina A. Holigores explained. “The students look at different mos remarked. Editor in Chief aspects of it, try to analyze it and go back Roux also feels and write up some reports and some po- that in his opin- C.Jude Defensor tential ideas for improving the situation.” ion, “ The major Editor Ariel Penetrante, a Filipino of German question to be citizenship and a lecturer on Interna- addressed is that Carmencita H. Acosta tional Negotiation at the University of of the self-deter- Associate Editor Cologne has worked with Prof. Hopmann mination of the before served as the organizer of the trip. B a n g s a m o r o Part of the visit included a trip to Cotabato people within Timothy Jay A. Ibay where they stayed for four days talking with the Philippines. Astra C. Alegre stakeholders, NGOs, UN agencies as well This issue seems Richard A. Ramos (Cebu) as government, and hearing their perspec- to be at the heart Writers/Reporters tive on the Mindanao conflict. They also Students of Johns Hopkins University in the Philippines of the problem had a chance to meet with former President and is relatively Leah Egamino-Palaña Fidel Ramos in Manila. During his presi- not familiar at all with the Philippines prior to complex,” he ob- Advertising dency, Ramos played a significant role in the this trip. This is also the reason why I was so ea- served. “However, I am confident that both peace agreement with the Moro National Lib- ger to participate in the trip,” Roux relates. He parties should be able to find an agreement Dominic De Vera eration Front as well as peace agreement with is focusing his research on the role of poverty in a near future assuming that they are willing the rebel soldiers of the Armed Forces of the to confront and address some of the difficult Classified Ads alleviation and economic development. Philippines. In his talk, President Ramos had spoken topics related to the conflict i.e. the question “We were all impressed by Pres. Ramos’ about the two kinds of poor—the relatively of ancestral domain, governance and spoilers, Eleanore Fern B. Pagaduan personality,” Teddy Roux, one of the students to list a few.” Lay-out Artist poor and the absolutely poor, and certain gov- who visited observed. “ Pres. Ramos has been ernment innovations that have been under- He remains optimistic though and shares “I extremely patient and kind with our group. He taken to address the issue, such as the CCT or hope that the peace talks which just resumed took the time to answer all our questions but conditional cash transfer program where poor between the MILF and the GRP will bear also discussed broader issues related to eco- families are given financial support on the con- fruit.” Our office address: nomic development in the Philippines. I was Lower Ground Floor, Legaspi Towers 100 148 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village, Makati City

Our telephone numbers: (+632) 840-2996 or (+632) 812-0987; BI Campaign vs. Illegal Students Pays Off Fax (+632) 840-2988 By TIMOTHY JAY IBAY You can also reach us at: [email protected] oming as a direct result of the Bu- for each SSP, issued mostly to South Korean ers to police their own ranks following reports [email protected] reau of Immigration’s (BI) crackdown nationals enrolled in hundreds of English lan- of involvement in fixing and other fraudulent and for sales and advertising: against illegally staying Korean minors guage learning centers all over the nation. The transactions with the bureau. Ledesma is- [email protected] Cin the country, the number of Special Study SSP levy comes on top of the regular alien reg- sued the call during the assembly of the BI’s Permits (SSP) issued to South Korean youths istration fee of Php 6,940 charged to each for- Composite Committee on Good Governance Cebu Mailing Address: shot up to Php 1,480 in the first three weeks eigner who stays in the country for extended (CCGG) headed by OIC associate commis- MJ. Cuenco Avenue cor. C. Mina St., of 2011. The intensified campaign came at the periods of time. sioner Edmund Macaraig. Mabolo, Cebu City heels of uncovering scores of young Koreans Currently, South Korean students are sec- Currently, there are more than 200 travel Telefax: (+632) 412-8000 enrolled in the Philippine education system ond in the number of foreigners staying in the agencies, law firms and other private entities without valid permits. BI officer-in-charge country, next only to China. accredited by the BI to represent their for- Ronaldo Ledesma said that the increase in BI intelligence division chief Faisal Hussin eign clients. BI administrative chief Felino CHECK OUT the number of SSP transactions translated adds, “We will continue our operations against Quirante Jr. said the CCGG will conduct ori- to higher revenues for the bureau which learning centers that accommodate foreign entation seminars and training for accredited reached 7.02 million Php covering January students without study permits. They (foreign private entities next month as part of the bu- ExpatExpat OnlineOnline 1 to January 21; higher than the collection students) better follow our immigration laws reau’s thrust to forge a harmonious working of 6.94 million from the last quarter of 2010. or face expulsion.” relationship with the stakeholders. www.expatphilippines.wordpress.com “This is the most solid evidence yet that the In other immigration news, Ledesma “Through this networking project, we ex- reforms we have initiated in the BI are starting called on travel agencies, law offices and other pect to generate stronger public awareness and And follow us on twitter @expatnewspaper. to pay off. This will go a long way in sustaining entities authorized to transact with the bureau, better appreciation of the bureau’s programs, the bureau’s income generating efforts that will on behalf of their clients, to aid in ensuring that particularly involving our frontline services”, Let us know what you think about the ultimately benefit the nation’s coffers”, Ledes- the BI’s frontline services are provided in the Quirante said. issues affecting the expat community. ma stressed. most effective manner. We want to hear from you! A fee of Php 4,740 is charged by the BI The OIC also appealed to the stakehold-

2011: The Year of Transport Fares Increase… PHOTO BOX from page 1 Land Transportation Franchising and Regula- implemented gradually. For January, the South tory Board (LTFRB) has reiterated that taxis Luzon Tollways Corporation (SLTC) is giving without receipt-issuing meters are not entitled a discount of 11.4 percent. This will go down to charge the approved fare increase. Cab driv- to 7 percent in February, and down further to 4 ers have said that the cost of obtaining said percent come March until the fees reach what meters can reach as much as 10,000 Php. The regulators have approved. LTFRB have started calibrating the meters of As of this writing, the current fees for vehi- the 28,000 taxis in the Metro. cles passing through the entire length of SLEX Completing the grand slam, the 250 per- pay toll fees of 76 Php up from 22 Php for Class cent increase for the SLEX toll fees has been 1 (cars, motorcycles, SUVs and jeepneys), 152 approved by the Toll Regulatory Board. Mo- Php up from 43 Php for Class 2 (buses and torists, though, will be given a little room to ad- light trucks) and 228 Php up from 65 Php for just as the increase has been agreed upon to be Class 3 (heavy trucks. Olive Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) hatchings swim out to sea mere hours after hatching in Anvaya Cove, Morong, Bataan. Text and Photo by WWF-Philippines JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 NEWS < 7 EXPAT NEWSPAPER FLI inaugurates seaside city Japan Assists Improvement of in Cebu By RICHARD A. RAMOS Facility for Senior Citizens malfi Oasis, the first cluster of residen- within the residential clusters. Japanese Ambassador Makoto Katsura and Ms. Alice tial buildings in Filinvest’s 50-hectare Only 35% of the residential zone will be Relativo Citta di Mare project, recently held its used as building footprints, while 65% of the ceremonialA groundbreaking activities at the land is dedicated to parks, tree-lined path buildings of the Home for the Aged are now South Road Properties, or SRP, in Cebu City. walks, jogging trails, and bike lanes between old and dilapidated, and no longer conducive VIP guests included Filinvest Land Inc. residential buildings. to a safe, decent and comfortable life for the (FLI) vice chair Andrew Gotianun, FLI first What’s more, the entire 40-hectare resi- residing elderly beneficiaries, in particular vice president Tristan Las Marias, Cebu City dential area will be car-free, making Citta di during the rainy seasons when the roof leaks, Mayor Michael Rama, and Cebu Investment Mare a truly distinct pedestrian paradise for posing danger to the residents. The Ladies of Promotion Center (CIPC) managing director leisurely walks and exercise routines for the Charity also cannot meet requests to accom- Joel Mari Yu. entire family. modate more elderly people now. Named after a quaint seaside Italian com- Citta di Mare, literally meaning “city by Given the difficult conditions of the benefi- munity, Amalfi Oasis is Filinvest’s first offer- the sea,” is poised to become a favored destina- ciaries of the Home for the Aged, the Ladies of ing of mid-rise condominium units in Citta di tion for locals and foreigners alike, offering a Charity sought the assistance of the Embassy Mare’s 40-hectare residential zone comprising unique seaside lifestyle that will change mod- of Japan to support the improvement of the ex- of around 10-12 buildings of at least five sto- ern living. isting facility. Through the project, the Ladies reys tall. Target completion and turnover of Amalfi of Charity will construct a Male Quarters and Each cluster of condominium buildings Building One is on December 2011. Filinvest renovate the existing Female Quarters so that apanese Ambassador Makoto Katsura they can accommodate about 30 abandoned will have its own set of amenities, including a is also ready to open Building Two due to the and Ms. Alice Relativo, president of the swimming pool, a clubhouse, and covered ac- overwhelming interest for the two-bedroom and neglected elderly people. It is expected Ladies of Charity, Inc.-Sorsogon Unit, that the elderly will have a better living envi- tivity courts. and three-bedroom units. Jsigned the grant contract for the “Project for The two other zones of Citta di Mare in- The SRP Amalfi project is a joint venture ronment in the newly-constructed facilities. the Improvement of Facility for Senior Citi- Japan believes that this project will not only clude Il Curso, a 10-hectare waterfront life- undertaking between Filinvest Land and the zens in the Province of Sorsogon” on January style strip, and the six-hectare Piazza situated City Government of Cebu. strengthen friendship between the peoples of 27, 2011 at the Embassy of Japan. The project, Japan and the Philippines but also contribute amounting to US$76,102 (approximately 3.4 to fostering a strategic partnership between million pesos), is funded through the Grant the two countries towards the future. Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Japan, as the top donor of official develop- Projects (GGP) of the Government of Japan. ment assistance for the Philippines, launched Xin Nian feted at Ayala Center In 1951, the Sisters of Charity and the GGP in the Philippines in 1989 for the purpose Bishop of Sorsogon opened the Home for the By RICHARD A. RAMOS of reducing poverty and helping various com- Aged in Sorsogon City, and afterwards, the munities engaged in grassroots activities. As of Cebu management of the facility was turned over to March 2010, 434 grassroots projects funded elected government and private bod- Hour will entitle the donor to a raffle coupon the Ladies of Charity, Inc.-Sorsogon Unit. The by GGP – ranging from roughly 1 to 4 million ies have joined forces to celebrate for a chance to win a free roundtrip ticket to facility has provided residential care, spiritual Php – have been implemented by NGOs, local the “1st Annual Xin Nian: Chinese Hong Kong via Cathay Pacific Airways, among and counseling services, recreational, health government units and other non-profit organi- SNew Year Festival” set on Saturday, Feb. 5, other prizes. and funeral services for the abandoned or ne- zations. The total grant for these projects so far 2011, at the Ayala Center Terraces in Cebu. Participating establishments include the glected elderly. amounts to US$18,982,775 The public is invited to witness and partici- Hotel, Resort, Restaurant Association of Cebu Having been hit by several typhoons, the pate in several fun-filled events and perform- (HRRAC); Hilton Cebu Resort & Spa; Wa- ances such as the exotic street food festival, terfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino; Water- captivating lion and dragon dances, a fashion front Airport Hotel & Casino; Imperial Palace show displaying heritage pieces of Ms. Eliza- Waterpark Resort and Spa; Montebello Villa beth Gan Go, fortune telling, and traditional Hotel; Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu; Philippine Chinese calligraphy. School of Culinary Arts; University of Cebu, Cebu City Vice Mayor Joy Young declared and the Cebu City Marriott Hotel. that they have coordinated with various Chi- Other establishments include Betty’s nese family organizations and businesses in Bakeshop, Lumpia House, De Luxe Hopia order to maximize attendance with both local Bakery and Groceries, Beka Bakeshop, Hopia and foreign Chinese nationals. de Manila, and Kwong Bee Sausage Factory. “In line with the Cebu City Tourism Com- Xin Nian (meaning “Happy New Year” in mission, or CCTC’s official tagline ‘What’s Mandarin), is a project of the Cebu City Gov- new in Old Cebu?’ we aim to introduce new ernment through the CCTC and the HRRAC. events in Cebu to encourage and attract more Other participating bodies include the Ayala tourists to visit Cebu. We also wish to make Center Cebu, Pepsi, and Cathay Pacific. this an annual affair while adding more events,” For inquiries, pls. call the CCTC office at he related in a media gathering held at the Wa- (032) 412-4355 or log on to http://www.ce- terfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino. bucitytourism.com or HRRAC through (032) Marco Protacio, HRRAC president, relat- 232-5101 or email: [email protected]. ed that every P100 donation to the Children’s BSP Warns Against Unlawful Credit Card Debt Collections By CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA he Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Threat to take any action that cannot le- or Central Bank of the Philippines has gally be taken; alerted the public to guard against ille- Communicating or threat to communi- Tgal methods of credit card debt collections in cate to any person, credit information which the wake of many complaints being aired by is known to be false, including failure to com- credit card holders. The BSP emphasizes that municate that a debt is being disputed; there are existing regulations meant to pro- Any false representation or deceptive vide for credit card debt collection procedures means to collect or attempt to collect any debt that are reasonable and legally permissible. or to obtain information concerning a card Credit card issuers and their collection holder; and agents are to observe good faith and refrain Making contact at unreasonable or incon- from unscrupulous and improper acts that are venient hours, which shall be defined as con- meant to harass and humiliate the credit card tact before 6 a.m. or after 10 p.m., unless the holder. BSP has listed the instances of unfair account is past due for more than 60 days or collection practices which the public is to the card holder has given express permission guard against, as follows: or said hours are the only reasonable or con- The use of threats or violence or other venient opportunities forPLACE contact. criminal means to harm the physical person, Those victimized by the aforesaid illegal reputation or property of any person; practices may call the BSP’sYOUR Supervision and Ex- The use of obscenities, insults or profane amination Sector, Financial Consumer Affairs language which amount to a criminal act or of- Group, (02) 523-3631 or go ADto the BSP, 5/F fense under applicable laws; Multi-Storey Building, BSO Complex, A. Mabini Disclosure of the names of credit card St., Malate, Manila. NOW! holders who allegedly refuse to pay debts; 8 > DINING JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 EXPAT NEWSPAPER Ho Kok Fai Talks About Chinese New Year, Peony Garden By CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA Valentine’s Hotel Offerings Compiled by CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA gone through the gamut of cuisines in many countries around the Asia-Pa- cific region. He has been in Manila since 2008 and through keen observation knows all too well what pleases the palate of both Filipinos and foreign visitors to the city. Ho is Malaysian, while executive chef Roger Pe- rez Gonzalez is Mexican which makes far interesting discussions pertain- ing to taste and flavor. Another Malaysian in the kitchen is Chef Lee Yan Crowne Plaza’s fish-shaped tikoy for Chinese New Year Fang, the man directly in- volved in the preparation The Heritage Hotel presents its tradi- special dishes are served at its Summer Palace Manila Pavilion Hotel’s Ho Kok Fai explains to guests the significance of the Prosperity of the food at Peony din- Salad; beside him is Executive Chef Roger Perez Gonzalez tional Chinese dance on February 3 at 11 am, dining hall; call (02) 613-8888 ing hall. on February 4 is the salad tossing when the Makati Shangri-La serves special Chi- Three heads are better chefs will tell diners to “toss as high as you can nese set menus on February 3 at its Shang Pal- he exquisitely beautiful pink peony than one. Here is an exam- for prosperity.” A prosperity buffet with extra ace; its regular fare of excellent Chinese dishes with its lush, rounded bloom is the ple what they have come up with for the metal special Chinese dishes will satisfy diners until is likewise available; call (02) 813-8888 traditional national flower of China rabbit’s new year: A set menu consisting of for- February 17; call (02)854-8888 Manila Pavilion has proven that its Chi- Tand is considered the flower of prosperity and tune salmon “Yee Sang,” braised pumpkin with The Peninsula Manila includes in its nese New Year Prosperity Yee Sang cuisine at honor. It is after this flower that Manila Pavil- Chinese ham and minced beef soup; prosperity regular international buffet at its Escolta din- Peony Garden is something to remember for a ion Hotel’s Chinese restaurant was named. chicken with Chinese herbs; duo combination ing hall on February 3 an array of sumptuous long time; available from January 26 to Febru- “Peony Garden serves great Chinese food, of steamed and deep fried garoupa; deep-fried Chinese dishes in celebration of the Year of the ary 17; call (02) 526-1212 and for the celebration of Chinese New Year, happiness prawns; braised diced mussels with Rabbit; call (02) 810-3456 Traders Hotel expects a large number of special dishes will grace Peony,” enthused Ho sea moss mushrooms and clam meat home- Manila Marriott Hotel has a Chinese sta- Chinese diners on February 3; thus its daily Kok Fai, the food and beverage director of the made bean curd stuffed with prawn paste and tion at its daily buffet in the Café; come Feb- buffet on that day is to include more Chinese hotel. Ho certainly knows whereof he speaks. chef’s sauce; longevity noodle with diced meat ruary 3, expect extra special Chinese dishes to dishes to please their guests’ palate; call (02) With more than 20 years as a hotelier, mostly and vegetables; and fried Chinese ninko. The be included in its generous spread; call (02) 523-7011 in the food and beverage department, Ho has celebration is ongoing until February 17. 988-9999 New World Hotel is all set to serve savory Best Western Hotel La Corona comes up Chinese dishes at its Jasmine Café on February with something unique for Valentine’s Day: a 3; call (02) 811-6888 chocolate buffet consisting of cakes, custards Dusit Thani creates a fantastic Valentine’s Kaishu: Japanese Cuisine at its best! and other pastries all made of chocolate, and cake rich in chocolate and strawberry infu- apanese Cuisine is among the healthiest For bigger functions, the whole restaurant can of course the chocolate fountain is the center- sions. Available from February 13 to 19. On in the world. It tops charts for nutritious comfortably seat almost 200 guests. piece; available from 7 p.m.; call (02) 524- February 13 and 14, a Lovers’ Thai menu is culinary delectables that are very ben- Since Japanese cuisine generally includes 2631 served while on February 14 only, a special Jeficial to a person’s over-all wellness. It is no seafood, Kaishu also offers an extensive live Diamond Hotel on February 3, from 8 to five-course European set menu at a discounted wonder that in today’s health conscious soci- seafood selection. Guests can request how 8:30p.m. regales guests and diners with a tradi- rate is offered; call (02) 238-8888 ety more and more people around the world their fresh seafood will be prepared and tional dragon and lion dance at its lobby; din- Networld Hotel celebrates Valentine’s served. Customers can also try the restaurant’s ner is a spread of international buffet selections from February 10 to 20 with a savory set menu prefer Japanese delicacies over regular menus. featuring Chinese celebratory dishes, also at its Café Sampaguita; call (02) 536-7777 Kaishu Japanese Restaurant is an Authen- exceptional Yakiniku dishes (choice of grilled chicken, pork, beef or seafood), other savory available on February 4; call (02) 528-3000 Pan Pacificis all set for romantic dining on tic Japanese Restaurant serving over 500 origi- Crowne Plaza offers something off the the evening of February 13 and 14 at its lounge nal food choices prepared by a renowned Japa- fares or the special shabu-shabu with options of fixed meals or mixtures of sets. Kaishu Japa- beaten track: fish-shaped tikoy, indeed a de- which offers a breathtaking view of the City of nese Chef. Aside from regular all-time favorites parture from the regular full-moon shaped Manila, including the famous Manila Bay; call like sushi and maki, Kaishu also has mastered nese Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Special affordable Bento Boxes are one; and there’s another: rolled love letter bis- (02) 318-0788 the art not only of traditional Japanese cook- cuits; call (02) 633-7222 Richmonde Hotel does not forget that ing but also of contemporary Japanese dishes. available during lunch. The restaurant is open from 6am-10am, 11:30am-2pm and 5pm-12 Sofitel Philippine Plaza presents a Chi- Valentine’s Day needs special cuisine for the Kaishu's interior was specifically designed to nese dance before lunchtime at its Spiral din- romantically-inclined; call (02) 538-7777 capture the oriental Japanese culture within midnight. Kaishu Japanese Restaurant is located at ing hall featuring the best in Chinese cuisine; Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, its walls, giving the restaurant that rare ambi- on Valentine’s Day, February 14 the ambiance Cebu focuses on food safety management and ance of dining in the land of the rising sun. Its the ground floor of NetWorld Hotel, which is along Roxas Boulevard corner Sen Gil Puyat changes to the romantic with all women diners assures that the quality of its food and bever- 16 VIP Tatami rooms, which collectively can being given a long-stem rose. age meets rigorous international standards. seat around 80 guests, makes Kaishu far more Avenue, Pasay City. For reservations and inquiries, please call (02) 536-7777 ext 4. EDSA Shangri-La serves great Chinese Special menus await Chinese New Year and than a regular Japanese restaurant for it can cuisine all the time and on February 3, extra Valentine’s diners; call (032)231-0288 also cater to gatherings, meetings or parties. JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 PEOPLE < 9 EXPAT NEWSPAPER

A Diamond of a Woman By CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA

anessa Ledesma Suatengco has seems to just sprout up in her wake. Her calm made history by being the first Fili- and composed demeanor seems to indicate pina general manager of a five-star that she has no need to grapple with obstacles Vhotel in the country. In other words, she has to achieve excellence. Her serenity repels ob- reached the top in her profession – the hotel stacles, as it were, and betokens well for her industry. She has gracefully broken through endeavors. the barrier of a terrain heretofore domi- nated by the male gender, thus proving to “Focus is on the guests” women that the summit is reachable after all. Her work may seem formidable to less Diamond Hotel Philippines appointed stronger personalities. But she is always un- Suatengco to the helm last year, cognizant of fazed, no matter where she goes. She says that her more than a decade of experience in hotel under her helm, her direction for Diamond operations. She was recently the resident man- Hotel Philippines is “to continue its commit- ager of another leading international five-star ment to product and operational excellence.” hotel in the metropolis and prior to that, she She describes her professional management was area director of Human Resources for the style as “pragmatic and consultative with the same hotel. But it was not only her experience staff.” She is aware that Diamond Hotel - “al that mattered in the selection. Suatengco has ready has a good reputation” and she “plans to the X-plus factor, something which is indefin- enhance it further.” able in print. One has to see her personally to She says that she welcomes challenges and get a load of her aura which exudes determina- changes since these keep everything “dynamic tion and confidence, surely the components of and exciting.” She emphasizes to her team that a strong personality. “in any crisis there are opportunities to make a difference, and to get ahead of the competi- Determination to get things done right tion we should conjure out-of-the-box ideas.” Talking to her, one can feel her determina- She adds that “focus on the guest is our prior- tion to get things done – and done right. One ity and extending service that is beyond their also gets a whiff of her confidence that things expectations.” will turn out just as they should. It is as if she “I want guests to return home with a sense has a blueprint for every project, small or big, of achievement –– that they accomplished which she follows to the minutest detail to en- what they had come to do. And that somehow, sure success. One is led to think that this is a Diamond Hotel was part of that, whether it lady who does not need a backup plan in her was making sure the guests got their phone projects for the hotel because things have been calls or enjoyed a relaxing holiday. Or perhaps programmed for excellent results. preparing a wonderful meal for them in the One might think that to describe her, dining room where they clinched the deal,” it is best to say that she has “a passion for ex- Suatengco says. cellence.” Not so, however. The “excellence” Vanessa Suatengco a female first

Master Yogi Bikram By ASTRA C. ALEGRE Bikram calls “Torture Chambers” – a has been teaching yoga for over 50 years feel good. Bikram yoga heals.” room heated to 40 degrees Celsius or and is a self-proclaimed perfectionist. For people who are not aware of 104 Fahrenheit, Bikram started doing Bikram notes that the best students are Bikram Yoga, this is what Bikram had yoga at age four under Bishnu Ghosh. He the ones who have never exercised in to say: “Your life is your life. You have to was the National India Yoga Champion their entire life but are flexible. He shares learn that about yourself, what you are at age thirteen. When he was seventeen “My yoga improves the body, improves looking for. What is your goal in your he got injured during a weight lifting the mind in perfect marriage to go to the life? What is the ultimate destination in competition and doctors said he would spirit. When you go to Bikram, you have your life? You want to live longer, Bikram never walk again. He went back to his a healthy body, total control of the mind yoga will help you open your third eye, yoga teacher and six months later his and a realized spirit. Any problem you cosmic eye. To see it, to understand it, knee was healed. have will be solved. Anything you cannot to realize it. Every human being has an The boss, as his students call him, deal with. Other forms of yoga, you just equal right to live a good life.”

Bikram Choudhury, fondly knows as “The Boss”

is client list reads like a who’s who of the entertainment industry. He drives a vintage car. He lives in the US. He swears. He donates half of hisH earnings to charity. He sports a ponytail and wears polo and jeans. He is definitely not your typical yogi. Bikram Choudhury. the innovator and the master guru of hot yoga, or what is more popularly known as Bikram Yoga, visited Manila recently to give a one day lecture on the benefits of the ancient practice. There are currently five licensed Bikram studios in Luzon, the latest one to open is in Alabang. Bikram yoga is a series of 26 postures and two breathing exercises. Each class runs for exactly 90 minutes in what 102 > >CLASSIFIED CLASSIFIED JANUARYJANUARY 30 30-FEBRUARY - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 JANUARY 30-FEBRUARY 12, 2011 CLASSIFIED < 3 EXPATEXPAT NEWSPAPERNEWSPAPER EXPAT NEWSPAPER

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Pediatric/Perio 1774 Evangelista St., lax, haircut, hair perm, UNITS FOR LEASE Great location & view! Welcomes You 1 Condo, Forbestown Ctr. •TMJ (Temporo Man- WAI-K AGENCY Bangkal Makati City foot and hand spa etc. STUDIO 1BR TO 3BR FURNISHED 1BR TAGAYTAY Community) 0917-4120673 65m² 1BR nicely renov. We supply hardworking, Bonifacio Global City, Beautiful 720 sqm. lot INTERNATIONAL dibular Joint) 843-2207/ 889-0169 A one-stop state-of-the Unfurnished/ Fullyfurnished Fullyfurn all new, parking CONDO near INT’L. reliable speak english Taguig 35K/month. Ex- 2 minutes from Rotunda PART TIME TUTOR •Panoramic/Ceph/Peria- art salon and barber First class amenities, swim- 817-1912/ 0917-8198991 AIRPORT RENT OR INTERDENOMINATIONAL housemaids, cooks,yaya, 0918-6466401 pical X-Ray) LPG BBQ’S ming pool, fully equipped SALE +63.918.933.7553 clusive dues, elec. & H20. 5M neg. 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PLEASE CALL Expat Brings Buyers and Sellers 894-1371-72 Together Every Two Weeks e fee is Php.175 for the ﬁrst three lines and Php.50 per line thereafter. LOOK FOR A bargain! Wouldn’t you agree? Send Check to: Expat Communications, Inc. Hurry! Place your advertising now. ANDY OR MYRA (Note: Please add 12% VAT to total cost) Lower Ground Floor, Legaspi Towers 100, 148 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village, Makati City DIRECT BUYERS ONLY Tel Nos. (02) 812 0987, 840 2996 | Fax (02) 840 2988 Email Address: [email protected] 12 > FEATURES JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 EXPAT NEWSPAPER Life and Football with Futbol Plana Forma: A New Way to Tone Funatics By TIMOTHY JAY IBAY A fitness program to compliment your lifestyle here are so many excuses to not get lower back pains; or in search of a fun, lively fit nowadays, but even more reasons outlet for releasing stress, and achieving a to. Fitness centers everywhere are sought-after balance of a healthy mind and Ttrying their best to make exercise more dy- body in a group setting. namic, fun, and of course, effective. Lots of Each class takes about 55 mins and al- “combination” routines have emerged from though grueling for some, those who have Bootcamp-type Plyometrics, to yoga/bal- taken the classes feel that they just spent a very let Barre to the more sensual gyrations seen intense half an hour and feel great afterwards. in Strip Dance and Pole Dancing classes. Some of the key benefits of Plana Forma are in- Plana Forma, which is now available in the creased lung capacity, longer and leaner mus- Philippines, promises a “no two workouts are cles, a more toned and flexible body, improved alike” premise. (Ideal for the easily bored). It body awareness, a stronger back and improved combines the best of dance, yoga, pilates and posture and increased bone density. powerful techniques from the Physique 57 There are several levels of classes, but it is system – a super-charged exercise series that best to try out with an intro class where one uses the body as its own natural resistance. De- can learn the basic language and vocabulary of signed by co-founder and fitness expert Tanya this new groundbreaking technique. Special Becker, Physique 57 is the result of her experi- packages are also available depending on one’s ences as a dancer, choreographer, and fitness schedule. instructor. For details call +63 917 8094392 or visit “Some people think football is a sports centers, the Futbol Funatics program This particular workout targets selected www.forma-asia.com matter of life and death. I assure you, is now also being offered in schools. “We muscle groups at it’s much more serious than that.” That’s handle the football club and varsity of Everest each stage of the from one of England’s most successful and Academy in The Fort, the Physical Education routine to the respected football managers of all time, Bill program of The Bridge School and Preppi point of fatigue Shankly. While he may have been referring International School and offer toddlers camps in a process called to the immense passion the game of football at Tumbletots Pre-School in Libis,” furthers ‘isometrics’. The elicits, he may also have been touching on Candice. results of a con- the relationship between the sport and the Indeed, such has been their growth that tinuous, consist- journey we all take between the two poles of the program once limited to children aged 3 ent workout are existence. to 13 now also offers youth camps for kids up longer, leaner To Futbol Funatics founders Candice to 17 years old, while also reaching schools muscles and a Grey-Del Rosario and husband Avery, that outside of the metro with the likes of Ednas dancer’s sculpted certainly was the case. “Football definitely School in Dagupan City. But the expansion has physique. Instruc- played a big part in shaping who we are today as not diverted their focus as Candice explains, tors claim it is the individuals. It made such an impact in our lives “Despite our growth in the past eight years, we perfect comple- that the qualities we took with us to the work feel we have stayed true to our objectives, by ment for anyone place were things we actually learned from keeping the camp personalized and not only cross-training; playing football and being part of a team sport”, focusing on developing football skills but also into serious ath- building character and teaching values that can letic activities; relays Candice. And that positive imprint Using isometrics, Plana Forma maintains your motivation before, during, and after each workout. football had on both Candice and Avery is the make the kids good decision makers both on looking to reduce same thing they wish to pass on to the students and off the field.” of their football school. With the country still reveling in its new Founded back in 2003 as a modest weekend found football buzz, and summer just around football camp of only a few kids in Cuenca the corner, the timing has never been more A Night of Classical Music Park, Ayala Alabang, the simple vision was perfect to be immersed in the beautiful game. By ASTRA C. ALEGRE to provide kids a complete learning encounter and “Art connects people,” Israel Ambassa- also a venue to gain a solid dor Zvi Vapni noted, as a night of classical music football foundation. Today, was enjoyed by the audience at the Philamlife Futbol Funatics has grown Theater courtesy of renowned Israeli pianist, significantly. They now hold Michael Tsalka. Together with the country’s camps in Tahanan Park and own Filharmonika orchestra under conduc- The Village Sportsclub, both tor Gerard Salonga, pieces such as Overture in BF Homes in Paranaque, to Rossini’s “La Gazza Ladra”, Mozart’s Piano the Meralco Center in Pasig Concerto No. 25, and Beethoven’s Symphony and Urdaneta Village in No. 6, the “Pastoral” captivated everyone in the Makati, their newest venue. audience. “We wanted to make football A first time visitor to the country, Tsalka accessible to more people by had nothing but positive words for the experi- opening in places convenient ence. He found the audience appreciative and and close to where they he felt a connection with the conductor. “Play- live,” says Candice. Apart ing with the orchestra was wonderful,” Tsalka from these venues which are Start them young. Futbal Funatics has a smart tragedy for carrying the love for remarked. “I like the conductor, Gerard, very either community parks or football over to the next generation. much. I felt we really connected.” Tsalka also performed with Filfest Foundation in Alabang and in Silliman University in Dumaguete. Tsalka has been playing music since five Michael Tsalka plays at the Philam Life Theatre A Council for Cultural Exchange years old. Aside from piano, he also plays keyboards and the harpsichord. He performs Deputy Chief of Mission Yaniv Revach, n 2010 five Filipino artists were awarded exchange and mutual understanding within chamber music as well. As a dedicated music who played a significant role in bringing the the Asian Cultural Council (ACC) Philip- and between Asia and the United States. professor, Michael tries to instill in his students artist to the country shares, “Michael toured pines Fellowship grant from the proceeds The Philippines Fellowship Program a love for music, to make them understand how South East Asia for two months and we thought Iof the 1st ACC Art Auction. The ACC Phil- emphasizes support for artists, scholars, and rich and unlimited the world is. He makes his it will be a great opportunity to invite him to ippines is a foundation that supports cultural specialists from the Philippines undertak- students read books, go to museums and sim- visit Manila to cap his Asian tour. For us it was exchange in the visual and performing arts ing research, study, and creative work in the ply connect to culture. Discipline is another a great privilege that an outstanding artist like between the United States and the countries United States or in Asia. Some grants are also important trait he teaches. He shares, “I think Michael will perform alongside Filharmonika in Asia. In partnership with the ACC, head- made to Americans pursuing similar activities that there are so many people today who want and represent Israel.” quartered in New York, a Philippine Fellow- in the Philippines and to institutions engaged to be professional pianists. You really need to For Tsalka, “It has been an extremely ship Program was established in 2000 to raise in Philippines-U.S. or Philippines-Asia ex- want it very badly. Give it all the hours. Be will- lovely, lovely positive experience,” In fact, he funds and offer more opportunities for- art change projects. The Philippines Fellowship ing to give up many things. Not everybody can plans to come back in 2012 and to return every ists, scholars, and cultural workers to under- Program was formally established in 2000 in be a soloist. Those who know a lot about tech- year, to teach and to perform. He says: “Music take study, research, observation, and crea- association with the ACC Philippines Foun- nique, could be good teachers, other people nourishes the soul and the intellect. What is tive work in the United States or within Asia. dation, a foundation established in Manila to can be good chamber musicians, singers. I try wonderful about classical music is that there ACC Philippines' mission is to develop collaborate with the ACC New York in raising to help them find the right avenue.” is no limit when you work with it. The music is Philippine artists in the visual and perform- funds and making grants for Philippines- U.S. “There is no one part of the world he hasn’t so rich. There are so many great composers and ing arts, museum and cultural specialists, and cultural exchange. visited, played or taught in,” Amb. Vapni ob- you can really develop your intellect and level arts administrators through a nurturing grant Watch out for the ACC Art Auction which served. “Michel Tsalka is a teacher, pianist, of passion. That is what I try to convey and I program. In partnership with ACC New York, will be help from one p.m. onward on February 100% excellent musician, one of the best Israel hope more and more people will be attracted ACC Philippines raises funds to support its re- 5, 2011 at the La Fuerza Compound in Pasong has to offer. His biography reads like 80 days to that and learn to love that.” gional program and act as a catalyst for cultural Tamo, Makati. around the world.” JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 COLUMNIST < 13 EXPAT NEWSPAPER A Chic and Compassionate Evening in Society Lounge United by their charitable goals, Philippine Cancer Society’s 2010 Best Dressed Women of the Philippines and Ambassadors for Life recently gathered at the premier dining and lounge destination Society Lounge in Makati. Armed with their elegance and unending aim of helping those who are in need, these notable personalities enjoyed the delectable dishes prepared by general manager and chef Patrice Freuslon. They also had a grand time talking about their benevolent endeavors amidst the chic contemporary French chateau inspired interiors of Society Lounge. Congratulations to Patrice and his competent team for another outstanding job!

(Seated) Philippine Cancer Society 2010 Best Dressed Women of the Philippines awardees Heloise Romualdez, Betchay Santos Monserrat and Salome Uy with Philippine Cancer Society Best Dressed Women of the Philippines event chairman Angola consul Helen Ong, (standing) Society Lounge’s Kerwin Yu, Philippine Cancer Society 2010 Best Dressed Women of the Philippines awardees doctor Anna Palabyab Rufino, doctor Susannah Ong Salvador, Ambassador for Life Aficionado Germany Perfume and Joel Cruz Signatures president and chief executive officer Joel Cruz, Society Lounge general manager Jason Choachuy, Consul Helen Ong, Kerwin Yu and Joel Cruz chef Patrice Freuslon, doctor Kelly Salvador and Aficionado and Joel Cruz Signatures internal vice our columnist with Society Lounge’s Jason Choachuy and Kerwin Yu with congresswoman Naida president Remar de Leon Angping and chef Patrice Freuslon A Celebration Fit for the Gods One of the much-anticipated festivities in the country recently took place at the NBC Tent in Taguig as the affable Guatemala consul and Consular Corps of the Philippines former dean Mellie Ablaza celebrated her birthday with a Gods and Goddesses Ball which also doubled as a thanksgiving party for her family’s friends and colleagues. With her husband Zambia consul general Louie Ablaza and children Czarina, Guatemala vice consul Marc Thomas and the creative genius Jun Jun who conceptualized the elaborate details of the plush gathering, the entire evening was marked by endless merriment, dancing and warm friendship. Happy birthday, Mellie!

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1 Zambia consul general Louie Ablaza and celebra- tor consul Mellie Ablaza with Chit and Pong Salud 2 Guatemala vice consul Marc Thomas with his mom consul Mellie Ablaza, Tessa Prieto Valdes, Czari- na Ablaza-Syquia and consul general Louie Ablaza 1 3 Angola consul Helen Ong with Jayelles president Roselle Rebano 4 Tony and Marietta Cuyegkeng with consul Mellie and consul general Louie Ablaza 5 Madame Trang with husband ambassador of Germany, His Excellency Christian-Ludwig Weber- Lortsch 6 Alfred and Letty Hahn with Luz Cullen, your columnist, Eimee with husband Bryant Cragun and Ado Escudero 2 3 6 14 > FEATURES JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 EXPAT NEWSPAPER Asian Social Institute: Rare Mercato Centrale: Manila’s School, Uncommon Students Newest Weekend Market By CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA Photo by FRANCIS JEF MANALO Staying in the metro for the weekend? Take a trip to Mercato Centrale to find delicious food, organic vegetables, healthy (and unhealthy) snacks and a whole lot more.

Text and Photos by KATRINA A. HOLIGORES

Reza from Afghanistan; James Ngun Hre from Myanmar; ASI president Dr. Mina Ramirez, Tran Thi Hanh from Vietnam and Nattapha Korean delights from The Bop Chi Booth Supso from Thailand hat’s up this weekend? If you are made up of tofu and veggies for only Php 50. degree in Social Work is hardly the try or that Social Work was hardly practiced in looking for something new to do, You can also browse the stalls for a selection passport to a high paying job. And their country. Another student observed that whether alone, with a bunch of of organic cleansers and beauty products from social work is often, if not always, the Philippines has a reputation for advanced Wfriends or your family, stop by weekend long booths managed by Messy Bessy, Leyende and describedA as “hard” and “stressful”. So, what methods of social work among the poor. Still Mercato Centrale in Fort Bonifacio Global All Organics. would attract a young person, with a future others commented that they would apply the City located a stone’s throw from Serendra and Mercato Centrale is open every Saturday career in mind, to settle for Social Work? knowledge they acquire at ASI to introduce Bonifacio High Street. There are two big white and Sunday from 7am to 2pm there is no admis- Heart, not mind, determines it. This I the methods of effective social work in their tents full of hot food, cold desserts, natural sion fee. E-mail [email protected] learned from interviewing Social Work stu- respective countries. beauty products and even an outside covered or call (0917)-5318949 for more information. dents in the international setting of the Asian ASI students do not just learn inside the area where you can get food freshly cooked on Social Institute (ASI) in Manila, the only classroom. Much of their time is taken up ac- the spot such as fish and chips or a delicious school in the Philippines that is exclusively quiring first-hand knowledge of the situation burger. The tents are airy inside with a spatter- dedicated to the Social Work curriculum in its in very poor communities in the Philippines ing of tables where you can sit down and eat college, graduate, and post-graduate studies. and of the problems of individuals, be they while your better half continuous shopping or A heart to serve the marginally poor, to unemployed or underemployed, be they par- if you need a little respite before standing up bring hope to the despairing and to make a dif- ents or children, be they trapped in vices or in again and patrolling the aisles of offerings, lots of ference in their respective communities: this illnesses. They are taught how to interact with free samples. So, try a couple before you decide is the collective reason why these ASI students the marginalized sector. The poor is always which to indulge in. Of course, you can always prefer Social Work to other glamorous courses their frame of reference. Their goal is to help go back and buy some more to bring home. offered elsewhere. They prefer to embrace a fu- improve their situation. Among their more In the mood for something hot and savory? ture lifestyle of service to the poor than a future recent projects were teaching organic farming Tina’s Pie Outlet serves delicious golden crust- one of comparative comfort and big bucks. to the poor and other means towards sustain- ed steaming hot pies with a variety of fillings Of approximately 200 students now enable development in such places as Angono, that will definitely fill you up. Meat-lovers will rolled at ASI, 70 are foreigners, hailing from Binangonan and Cardona. enjoy the cheesesteak and callos offerings and a (top) Healthier options from Ka Pao (bottom) mouthwatering from 18 different countries. These include Dr. Mina M. Ramirez. Ph.D. is president less heavy option would be the smoked salmon pies from Tina’s Pie outlet Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China of ASI. She was mentored by the institute’s (they get sold out fast though). For a twist on (PRC), East Timor, India, Indonesia, Japan, founder himself, the late Rev. Francis Senden a filipino treat, go to Chef Claude Tayag’s Ba- Malaysia. Myanmar, Laos, Oman, South Ko- of the Netherlands. For more than four dec- lay Dutung which serves a mean (crunchy and rea, Thailand, Vietnam; the Latin American ades now Ramirez has been steering the di- juicy) “Panini” made out of liempo which is countries of Brazil and Peru; and Germany. rection of ASI towards excellence. And she roasted pork belly. Gotta have some rice? Bap- The rest are Philippine nationals. has succeeded in doing so, as borne out by the Chi serves asian delights with a twist, you can A survey of foreign students show that school being the first choice of foreign students have a rice topping or an asian fused q’dilla. they came to the Philippines to enroll at ASI wanting an Asian academic education in Social Dessert is also easily found in Mercato because it was either highly recommended by Work. Ramirez is well-aware that these foreign Centrale, from bubble tea drink an interesting the Social Welfare departments in their respec- students will someday be leaders in their re- mochi wrapped ice cream selection as well as tive countries, or by their churches, or by respective countries especially in their chosen mini-cupcakes found on different ends of the turning graduates. Others remarked that there field. ASI is located on Leon Guinto, Ermita, two tents. If you’re not in the mood to eat just was no Social Work curriculum in their coun- Manila, with phone 526-6154 and 523-3483. yet, take home a healthy snack of fresh lumpia Mandarin Oriental Welcomes 2011 Year of the Metal Rabbit By ASTRA C. ALEGRE t’s an annual event that has become prepared six mushrooms, black moss, seafood mousse a well-loved tradition at the Mandarin different set stuffed in fish maw, quail eggs, soy sauce Oriental, Manila—the midnight count- menus featur- chicken and Chinese cabbage. The Pen Cai set Idown and festivities to welcome the Chi- ing special Chi- menu serves 5 to 7 persons. At least four hours nese New Year, which falls on February 3 nese New Year advance notice should be given by guests who this year. “The celebration of the Chinese dishes at their wish to try this special menu. New Year here in Mandarin has been going Chinese restau- There will also be a grand Midnight on for 15 years” says General Manager Mark rant, Tin Hau. Countdown on the eve of Chinese New Year Bradford. “It is one of the biggest Chinese A definite must on Wednesday, February 2. The festivities New Year celebrations outside Binondo.” try is the Pen for the public kick off with a traditional paai Red boxes of nian gao or tikoy as we know Cai set menu shan ceremony and blessing headed by Master it, a sticky delicacy made from glutinous rice, which comes Chau; an eye-dotting ceremony; a dragon and given and enjoyed between and among friends with the tradi- lion dance; and outdoor fireworks at the hotel and family, is a staple for the occasion. At Man- tional Pen Cai, a mound at the corner of Makati Ave. and Paseo darin Oriental, homemade tikoy is available in rich, hearty stew de Roxas. Ticket holders are invited to a pre- different shapes such as lotus flowers, pineap- usually served event al fresco cocktails at the hotel’s Makati ples, fish and even rabbits. After all, this is the during Chinese Ave. entrance and later partake of a sumptuous year of the metal rabbit, said to be a good year Welcome the Chinese New Year with a bang New Year. Tin eight course lauriat dinner in their ballroom. for getting married and having a baby. It’s also Hau’s version Theatrical entertainment numbers will be pre- a good year for business, according to feng shui made of metal), transportation, and even the includes Austral- sented and lucky diners can win a trip for two master Joseph Chau, particularly businesses medical industry. ian abalone, sea cucumber, US beef shank, to Mandarin Oriental’s Sanya resort hotel. For related to metal such as banking (coins are For this special occasion, the hotel has shrimps, dried scallops, dried oyster, Chinese more information call (02)750-8888. JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011 LIFESTYLE & CULTURE < 15 EXPAT NEWSPAPER cultural calendar Artist Nikki Luna’s Superstitous Compiled by CARMENCITA H. ACOSTA

Legendary Marty McCorkle mounts his oil paintings, many of which contains symbolisms; ongoing until February 8. Ricco Renzo Galleries; call 898-2543

McCorkle’s Bamboo Riverside

ikki Luna’s first show is open estingly, in folk tales, the one who clings on till February 18 at the Blanc Gal- to the gift dies. The damning gold words are lery, Peninsula Manila. Dubbed light enough to be whisked away. The gifts, on “PresentN Superstition,” it features provoca- the other hand, are immovable with weight tive pieces such as installation/concep- and nostalgia. The woman has given up and is tual art made of gifts wrappings, with im- giving out. The weight of reciprocity, of mind- ages of women floating words of brass and numbing conformity, is finally in limbo. stainless steel, and a giant neon light gift. Luna’s gift economy is not an economy of abundance. Nor does it predicate reciprocity. These gifts, beautifully wrapped, are artifacts of withdrawn affections, whose ends the art- Martinez’s The Absence In Presence ist encapsulated in metal alphabets that spell Presence “YOU LOST ME A LONG TIME AGO.” Ciani’s The Yellow Jar Visual artist J. Crisanto Martinez mounts Luna has long been fetishizing the every- his works that focus on the correlation day, inducing meaning out of common objects Twenty Ten between what is perceived and what is ex- by fusing unrelated ideas such as guns and lace, Lina Llaguno Ciani mounts her symbolic perienced; ongoing until March 14, The or words and shadows. Now, she puts together paintings; ongoing until March 1; Galleria Manor, Camp John Hay, Baguio City; call grief and gifts. There is a discreet atmosphere Duemila; call 833-9815 +6374 424-0961 of scarcity and longing in each of these, as if these are tombstones of past lovers’ vows, lov- ingly wrapped by the artist to reinforce what LECTURE EXHIBITS they represent at present: vague valuables. Un- A Phenomenological Reflection Mind on what Matters opened, they have reached the end of their pur- Asian Social Institute president Dr. Mina Painter Sequi Cu-Unjieng and ceramic pose. They cannot be given back, nor will they M. Ramirez shares some insights into the artist Tessy Pettyjohn team up to present ever be accepted. The gift economy requires meaning and significance of youth par- their respective arts; ongoing until Feb- the exchange to be more than back and forth ticipation towards social transformation: ruary 16, Galerie Hans Brumann; call lest the gifts become poison. Bayview Hotel, 1:30-5 p.m. February 5; 728-2175 Hence, Luna’s offering is an attempt at wid- for reservations call 526-6154 or 523- ening the circle. Beyond material, the concept 3483. Jam Session Photo Exhibit of gifts is that of bestowed virtues and inter- The United States Embassy presents pho- CONCERTS tographs from the 1950s of American jazz Philippine Madrigal Singers greats, including Louis Armstrong; Feb- The world famous Philippine Madrigal ruary 11, Trinoma Cinema Lobby 4/L; Singers present a varied repertoire of call301-2363 local and foreign selections; 8 p.m., Feb- ruary 12 and 13, Cultural Center of the Divine Philippines; call 832-1125 to 39 A two-man exhibition of Criselda de Leon and Anthony Nanola. Ongoing un- The Greatest Love Songs of our Time til February 6 at Sigwada Gallery, 1921 Kuh Ledesma, Marco Sison, Rey Valera, Oroquieta St., Sta. Cruz, Manila; call Nonoy Zuniga and Rico Marco regales 743-5873 the audience with romantic songs; 8 p.m., February 13, Philippine International ART FESTIVAL Gifts as installation art (top) Luna’s work integrating different materials Convention Center (PICC); for tickets Pasinaya (Celebration) call 911-5555 The Cultural Center of the Philippines presents the whole-day Pasinaya to en- Duo Piano Concerto able the general public to watch cultural Abelardo Galang II and Jose Artemio Pan- shows for free; participating are more ganiban III team up to present a concert than 2,000 artists of the Philippine Ballet for two pianos featuring compositions Theater, Ballet Philippines, Bayanihan, by Brahms, Poulenc and Rachmaninoff; Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group Phil- 7:30 p.m., February 16, Cultural Center ippine Philharmonic Orchestra, UST of the Philippines; call 832-1125 to 39 Symphony Orchestra and many others; 8 a.m.-6 p.m.. February 6, Cultural Center Valentine Comedy Plays of the Philippines; call 832-1125 local “Paradise Proper” by Richard Heratek, 1600 to 1607 directed by starring La Rita Hamilton and Elizabeth Tan Buot, directed by Bamboo Organ Festival Michelle Washington; February 5; “Nice The famous bamboo organ in Las Piñas is Tie” by Rich Orlof featuring Vashali Ray once more the focus of attention as strains and Chia Wei-Lu, directed by Michelle of classical music waft in and around the Washington, February 12; “Bride church for six days; February 17 - Gala and Gloom” by Rich Orloff starring Night; Feb. 18 – Music of Bach; Feb. Jaqcqueline Silver and Ernesto Evasco; 19 – Concert under the Trees; Feb. 20 – directed by Bryan Manantan, Feb. 26; Pueri Concinite; Feb. 22 – An Evening plays start at 9 p.m., Salon Theater; call of Organ Music; Feb, 23 – An Evening of 0927-3839517 Chamber Music; performances begin at 7 p.m. at Las Piñas Church; for tickets call 825-7190 JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 12, 2011

Valentine's Day is coming up and just like in any other country, the Philippines makes it a point to celebrate the love holiday (even if it's still technically a work day). Since everyone has different ways of celebrating the day of cupids and hearts, we here at Expat asked: Where would you take your date here in the Philippines on Valentine's Day and why?

Mike Sharp Jourdan Gan American Filipino-Chinese Computer Analyst Chinese Instructor, Center for East Asian Lan- guages I think that it really de- pends on what kind of I would take her to time you want to have. a nice hotel dinner, There's an abundance somewhere that’s of choices here in the not too crowded like Philippines, so it's just Shangri-La or Sofitel. a matter of preference. I’d surprise her with For a quick drive, a bouquet of flowers those restaurants in by telling the waiter to Tagaytay with that view is about as romantic hide them in the hotel kitchen first before I give a scene as you'd like. But for me personally, them to her later, in the middle of our meal. I've always dreamed of taking someone out That’s what I did before. to Palawan for a date. That would be insanely awesome.

Philippe Tordjman Prashanth Misra French Indian Owner of Philippe’s Salon I’d like to take my date I would probably to Baguio City and choose to go to Punta join the Lovapalooza. Fuego or the farm for I heard they were a nice quick getaway. going to try and break We’ll have a nice the previous records dinner and I’ll even and I would like to add be the cook for the two more to that. night!

Michael Spliedt Carl Gimbrone Jr. German American LaLaughKa.com Dentist

I'd bring her to Rizal, I would take my valen- Quezon. For camping tines date on a horse- and surfing, to spend drawn carriage ride quiet time together through the cobble away from distraction stone streets of the and enjoy the beauti- Intramuros historical ful sunrises. There is district in downtown nothing much like Manila. We would having the rays of the have a romantic din- morning sun, wash over your body after a long ner at Ilustrado before enjoying a moonlit walk night of of intimate toiling. in the flower gardens of Rizal park.

Laurens Meutermans Eduardo Gutierrez Belgian Spanish Project Director, Alexandre Restaurant Project Manager I'm thinking… Most I would say a good res- probably, since I live taurant to start with in Makati, I'd take because love goes her out of the city. Ta- through the stomach. gaytay has a very nice For example SALA feel to it. Treating our- restaurant in Green- selves to a nice lunch belt would be a nice at Country Suites, for place to go and have starters isn't too bad. a date. Tagaytay for lunch, spa… then back for a good movie/dinner (‘cause I’m a sucker for classic date routines).

Kyle Buencamino Heinrich Lim Chinese Chinese Publishing Specialist, Thomson Reuters Manufacturing Plant Supervisor, Petron

I think the perfect I would probably take place to celebrate Val- her to Tagaytay City. entine’s Day in the Tagaytay is our fa- Philippines would be vorite place because in El Nido, Palawan. of the cold weather. There are countless Actually, the cold things to do. You can weather is good for livebe adventurous romance because it with your loved one: makes the two of you surf, dive, swim and sunbathe. It is also a hug each other more (laughs). I also want to place where you and your valentine’s date can take her there because there’s no pollution and simply relax, chill, and get to know each other the natural scenery is very nice. more as you watch the sunset. The beach and the sights are just too beautiful that it could be one of the most romantic places where you could spend Valentine’s Day in the Philippines.