For those who have not yet treated their mothers on Mother’s Day, it is never too late. Local foam and mattress brand Uratex strongly suggests pampering moms with its premium mattress line designed by ace designer Rajo Laurel. Buying a mattress from the Rajo Laurel line entitles you or your mom to more treats as the brand, manufactured by RGC Group of Companies, partners with Our Home, the furniture store chain with more than 20 stores in major SM malls, for the Mother’s Day promotion Best Mattress for Mom, which lasts until May 31.

The Uratex Rajo Laurel Collection has two stylish and functional kinds of mattresses, which remain popular since they were launched last year. Two years, ago Uratex asked Laurel to design a collection of mattresses for them, and he came up with the Scatola and the Trapunto.
“This was an important step for me because dati ‘di ko alam na nakaka-design ako ng kama (before I didn’t know that I can design a bed),” Laurel averred.
The Scatola, which is “box” in Italian, is a three-fold futon that converts in a cubic ottoman.
“I thought that it would be a catchy phrase to call it that. I love the Scatola as it is useful and practical, but super stylish at the same time,” Laurel explained.
“When I design, it is personal,” he revealed. And Scatola is proof of that. It is perfect for compact living spaces such as a condominium unit, and Laurel said he lives in a small apartment. Additionally, the cover, for the ottoman, has four side pockets that can be used for to put magazines, newspapers, remote controls, cell phones and other small items in, a feature Laurel loves.
Additionally, the Scatola is made from high-resilience and high-quality foam to provide comfort and support for both sitting and sleeping. The zippered, non-shrink and machine-washable fabric cover is exclusively made by RGC Textile using the weaving technology of Japan’s Tatsumura Textile Co. Ltd.
On the other hand, the Trapunto is a traditional mattress. The name is Italian for “to embroider,” and refers to a classic European quilting style prized for its elegance and beauty.
“I have always been drawn to graphic lines and strong angles. This has always been a constant feature in my work and designs. I just kept drawing lines and cubes, and from these experimentations Trapunto, which is a stitch technique, was born,” Laurel explained.
The Trapunto has a contoured cut and knitted fabric cover to provide a soft plush feel. It also has a firm feel in the back but soft on the zonal areas. The seven-zone function ensures support in the shoulder, lumbar and hip areas. Additionally, it is treated with Sanitized as protection against bacteria, fungi, dust mites, mold, mildew and odor.
If these qualities don’t compel you to choose the Laurel line, then maybe the promo will.
According to Dindo Medina, Uratex corporate sales director, when you buy any Rajo Laurel mattress at any Our Home outlets, you can get a 20 percent discount on the Trapunto or a 15 percent discount on the Scatola. Additionally, buyers get a free Rags2Riches bag. Purchases worth P10,999.75 or below entitle you to a raffle coupon, two for P11,000 to P19,999.75 and three for P20,000 and above. There will be two majors winners of Rajo Laurel designer dress worth P15,000. There will be 10 winners of Rajo Laurel gift certificates worth P3,000 each. The draw will be on June 10.

For more information, visit Web site www.uratex.com.

Heritage clinics, Santacruzans and museum tours comprise the celebration of National Heritage Month

This month of May in the Philippines is a month of fiestas and festivals. It is also National Heritage Month (NHM). Since August 11, 2003, when Proclamation No. 439 was signed, declaring the month of May as National Heritage Month “in recognition of the need to create among the people a consciousness, respect, and pride for the legacies of Filipino cultural history, and love of country,” we celebrate our treasures and legacies. More than being priceless, these treasures tell us who we are, contain interesting stories of our places and peoples, stand as our achievements, and give us character. In this fast-changing world, the need to be aware and conserve our heritage is more pressing and vital.
Many agencies are involved in the celebration of National Heritage Month to drum up interest and foster appreciation for our heritage as well as the works that go with taking care of them. Leading the effort is the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the government arm for arts and culture.
    
Heritage clinics
In the NCCA, the Subcommission on Cultural Heritage (SCH), one of its three subcommissions, is tasked in making the celebration of the NHM significant. This year, the SCH is refurbishing its past theme “Taoid: Weaving Our Stories, Threading Our Paths,” and aims to give “a glimpse of the legacies of the past and how it remains to shape the present and the future.” It is also “a recognition and celebration of the different aspects of our national cultural heritage — our traditional art forms and practices, important cultural structures both movable and immovable, and other objects of national importance whether tangible or intangible.” According to Regalado Trota Jose, head of the SCH and the National Committee on Archives, taoid is an Iluko term for “heritage.”    
He and members of the steering committee — composed of Imelda Loste, head of the National Committee on Art Galleries; Dr. Maria Nela Florendo, head of the National Committee on Historical Research; Antonio Santos, head of the National Committee on Libraries and Information Service; Dr. Jaime Laya, head of the National Committee on Monuments and Sites; and Dr. Antonio Julian Montalvan, head of the National Committee on Museums; with supports from NCCA chairman Felipe de Leon Jr. and executive director Emelita Almosara — has prepared a series of “heritage clinics.”
In these clinics, expert services in different aspects of heritage conservation and management as well as in maintaining libraries, archives, museums and galleries are made available to cultural workers in different areas of the Philippines. Along with heritage clinics, the SCH will conduct workshops on cultural mapping to identify the heritage sites and items of the area and technical assessment of heritage sites in some areas. Usually, the holding of these heritage clinics are in conjunction with the hosts’ festivals. They are not concentrated in May. The heritage clinics started in March, and some will be implemented until October. It seems that these are regular efforts of the SCH appropriated as celebration of NHM. There seems to be a lack of general campaign and awareness efforts for the general public, which the NHM is created for.
From March 11 to 13, the National Museum and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines conducted assessment of sites in Capul, Northern Samar, for possible declaration as National Cultural Treasures, and there was a talk on the Tam-awan experience by Chit Asignacion. From April 3 to 7, a heritage clinic was conducted by the National Committee on Historical Research in Mahatao, Batanes. There were also heritage clinics conducted by the National Committee on Art Galleries and National Committee on Libraries and Information Services, National Committee on Museums, National Committee on Archives and National Committee on Monuments and Sites, as well as technical assessment of sites for possible declaration as National Cultural Treasures from April 9 to 14, coinciding with the Rakanen Festival.
From April 15 to 18, workshops on art, festival management and theater will be held in Glan, Sarangani, as well as technical assessment of sites for possible declaration as National Historical Landmarks by the NHCP. From May 24 to 25, technical assessments for possible interventions and declarations will be conducted in Lake Sebu and Lamlifew in Malungon, Sarangani, coinciding with the Sarangani Bay Festival
In June, workshops on cultural mapping, art, festival management, theater, music and dance will be conducted in Capul, Northern Samar. Activities are planned for July 26 to 28 in Capul, Northern Samar, in conjunction with the Saluka Festival.
In September, there will be workshops on cultural mapping, capability building, art, festival management, theater, music and dance in Pudtol, Apayao, as well as technical assessment of sites for possible declaration as National Cultural Treasures and or National Historical Landmarks. Activities are being planned for October 8 to 9 for the Say-Am Festival of Pudtol, Apayao.

True Santacruzans and pilgrimages
In the early years of the NHM, the Filpino Heritage Festival Inc. (FHFI), a private organization headed by former SCH members Armita Rufino and Araceli Salas, led the national celebration of NHM with substantial funding from the NCCA. While the funding has been cut down in recent years, the FHFI still continues to come up with events in celebration of the National Heritage Month. The FHFI events involve more the public and are geared towards them.
A regular project is the “heritage pilgrimages” to churches declared as National Cultural Treasures (NCT) to raise awareness on and foster appreciation for these priceless legacies. Presidential Decree 374 describes a National Cultural Treasure as “a unique object found locally, possessing outstanding historical, cultural, artistic and/or scientific value which is significant and important to this country and nation.”
According to FHFI, “heritage churches have been at the forefront of Philippine history as a tool in furthering Christianity in the archipelago. The Philippines is home to hundreds of centuries-old Spanish colonial churches, 36 of which have been declared as National Cultural Treasures. Most of these churches were built during the Spanish colonial rule and are mostly a fusion of European and Asian architectural motifs.”
FHFI further stated that the heritage pilgrimage “aims to promote awareness for the sites for their historical, artistic and architectural interests,” and “it also strongly recognizes and acknowledges that these 36 heritage churches have a strong tradition of religious meaning — for devotion, healing and spiritual significance for the majority of the Filipino people.”
FHFI kicked off its National Heritage Month celebration with a heritage pilgrimage to Cavite and Batangas last May 9, visiting two NCTs — the Our Lady of Assumption Church of Maragondon, Cavite; and the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church of Balayan, Batangas. The tour also included the charming heritage town of Taal, particularly the Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay in Labac and the Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, said to be the largest church in Asia.
The bulk of FHFI events is made of Santacruzans, a May tradition all over the Philippines. FHFI started the advocacy of bringing back the true meaning of the traditional Santacruzan last year and is doing it again this year.
“May is the month of the Flores de Mayo and the Santa Cruz de Mayo. While both are popular devotions, they have separate historical narratives and practices. However, in the course of the centuries, both devotions merge on the 31st of May into one grand pageant called Santacruzan. So while the Santa Cruz de Mayo is losing its lessons and meaning, the Flores de Mayo is fast losing its name and essence,” said the FHFI.
“The Santacruzan itself, before it degenerated into a pageant of beauty queens and starlets, used to be a novena procession commemorating the finding (not the search, because Reyna Elena is already holding it!) of the Cross of Empress Helena and her son, Emperor Constantine, in Jerusalem,” the FHFI informed.  
Like last year, traditional Santacruzans will be held in different parts of the country. This year, two different versions of the Santacruzan will be featured — the ones in Pampanga and Batangas — which are unique to these provinces.
In Pampanga, its traditional Santacruzan unique is called Sabat or Goydo-goydo (after Goy do Borgonia, successor of Constantine). According to FHFI, “Sabat is a version of the Santacruzan in which costumed performers interrupt the procession to challenge the sagalas and their consortes to a duel, either through verbal joust or in a swordfight. It is a re-enactment of the ambuscades that infidels (Moros) launched on the Crusaders as they returned to Europe after finding the Holy Cross.”
According to the journal Singsing of the Holy Angel University, Pampangans have three great festival seasons: Christmas, Holy Week and May. Of all the celebrations occurring in May, the most spectacular in terms of costumes and community participation is the Sabat Santacruzan. The romantic elements in the story, which repudiates the notion of Christians subjugating Muslims and implies the equality and ultimate union of all religions, resonate among Pampangans who in 1571 gave up Islam to embrace Christianity.
FHFI partners with Kuliat Foundation, Inc. to revive the Sabat Santacruzan on May 22 (4 p.m.) at the Museo ning Angeles in Angeles City, Pampanga. Different stakeholders of Angeles City will be tapped to participate in the tradition with Romeo Rodriguez providing a guided script for the Sabat Santacruzan detailing the characters.
Aside from the Pampangan Sabat, the Batangas version will also be featured as well as the Flores the Mayo. FHFI partnered with Kalinangang Batangan    “to take the event a step farther by reviving the devotion of the Flores de Mayo that traditionally precedes the Santacruzan.”
A script in the traditional Batangas Tagalog poetry form introduces each participant in the procession citing her role in the history of salvation. Likewise tarpaulins or streamers with the name of the character and a short description of her will take the place of arches usually carried overhead. Thus, the procession will be a short colorful lesson on Biblical personages that played a role in the story of Jesus and the cross.
The Flores de Mayo will be held from May 21 to 29 at 4 p.m. at the Plaza Mabini Amphitheatre in Batangas City, while the Santacruzan will be held on May 29 at 6 p.m. starting at the Plaza Mabini. The procession will turn left to P. Burgos Street, left to M. H. Del Pilar Street, enter the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, exit left to M. H. Del Pilar Street, right to D. Silang Street, right to P. Herrera Street, right to C. Tirona Street and ends at the Pastor Ancestral House grounds.
FHFI-supervised traditional Santacruzans will be held in Silay City, Negros Occidental, on May 25; Intramuros in Manila (4 p.m., from Fort Santiago grounds to San Agustin Church), Enchanted Kingdom in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, and Majayjay in Laguna (2 p.m. with Flores de Mayo, and 3 p.m. mass at San Gregorio Magno Church, and 4 p.m., start of procession), on May 26; Batangas City, Batangas (6 p.m., Plaza Mabini Amphitheater), on May 29; and Carigara, Leyte, on May 30.
Numerous exhibits in malls and other public areas will be held to further promote Filipino heritage. The exhibits will feature fiestas (April 29 to May 4, SM Molino; May 14 to 21, Robinsons Mall, Manila; May 27 to June 15, Cagayan de Oro City), old lighthouses (May 13 to 19, SM Masinag; May 14 to 21, Robinsons Mall Manila), old buildings (May 13 to 20, SM Baliwag; May 15 to 19, SM Bacolod; June 10 to 16, SM Lucena), traditional mats (June 10 to 14, SM Dasmariñas), Bangsamoro (May 27 to June 15, Cagayan de Oro City) and designer Ben Farrales (May 20 to 26, Robinsons Mall Magnolia). Additionally, there will be exhibits featuring the works of the Camera Club of the Philippines (April 28 to May 3, SM Taytay; and May 18 to 24, SM Southmall); Leyte-Samar birds (May 30 to June 1, Carigara, Leyte); National Artists’ palettes (June 13, the National Museum of the Philippines); the hibiscus with plants sale (May 28 to June 2, Kanlungan ng Sining, Rizal Park, Manila, 10 a.m); and Filipiniana gowns by Patis Tesoro (May 31 to June 4, SM Podium; and June 7 to 14, SM North Edsa’s The Block).
FHFI will also mount “Eskultor ng Bagong Lahi: A Retrospective on the Life and Works of National Artist Guillermo Tolentino” at the Old Senate Session Hall of the National Art Gallery, which will open May 30.
Also, FHFI will mount the Pahampang Pinoy, a demo and exhibition of traditional games, on May 20 in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental (3 p.m.) with a heritage tour for the youth.
For more information, contact the FHFI at 523-9692, e-mail heritagemonth@yahoo.com, or visit www.heritagefestival.ph.
    
Cordilleran body ornamentation in Baguio City
Annually, the Chanum Foundation, which manages the Tam-awan Village, a tourist attraction with galleries, souvenir shops, a café, traditional Cordilleran huts and lodgings in Pinsao, Baguio City, holds its arts festival in May, independent of the National Heritage Month. As it falls on National Heritage Month, the event is frequently included in the National Heritage Month calendar.
Now on its fourth year, the Tam-awan International Arts Festival (TIAF) will be held from May 15 to 19, with the theme “Jewels of the Cordillera,” featuring performances, exhibits, lectures and cultural shows. The festival will highlight the tattoo and tattooing, and other forms of body ornamentation.
“The Cordilleras is comprised of provinces and two cities. All these areas have distinct jewels and accessories,” said the Chanum Foundation. “The art of tattooing is a part of the Cordilleran brand of accessories and is still being used to date.”
The fourth TIAF will be focusing in these intricate beadwork made from indigenous materials, precious stones and other materials as well as tattoo art.
The opening on May 17 will have South African ambassador Agnes Nyamande-Pitso talk on South African jewelry and University of the Philippines Baguio professor Ikin Salvador on reinventing the traditional tattoos of the Cordilleras. A tattoo exhibition will be mounted by the participants of a tattoo workshop held from May 15 to 16.
Lectures will continue the following day with Natty Sugguiyao and Mary Grace Pocais (“Reinterpreting Beauty: The Kalinga Tattooed Women and the Aliwadog, Kalinga Heirloom Beads”); Delia Albert (“Mountains of Gold: Mining in Baguio-Benguet, A Historical Perspective”); Beatrix Angeles (“Arts and the Copyright Law”) and Sonia Daoas (“Traditional Cordilleran Accessories and Designs”) with a show of Cordilleran accessories and native wear. The night’s cultural show will be provided by University of the Cordilleras’s Maria Aplaten and Saint Louis University’s Tanghalang SLU and Center for Culture and the Arts. On Sunday, Kenneth Esguerra of the Ayala Museum will talk about the excavated gold jewelry of the Philippines.

A long night at the museums in Cebu
Culminating the National Heritage Month celebration is the Gabii sa Kabilin on May 31 in Cebu. This is a night-long tour of the museums, galleries and heritage sites in the cities of Cebu, Mandaue, Talisay and Lapu-Lapu, with each site featuring fairs, exhibits, dining, performances and many others.
The Gabii sa Kabilin, literally “night of heritage,” is a project of Ramon Aboitiz Foundation’s (RAF) Culture and Heritage Unit for seven years now, taking inspiration from Lange Nacht der Museen or Long Night of Museums of Germany and other European countries, which is replicated throughout the world. According to RAF, the Gabii sa Kabilin is the only event of its kind in Asia to encourage “the public to visit museums and understand their position as a venue for cultural understanding and fun and dynamic learning.” During the event, museums and cultural institutions will remain open until late night for public viewing and visits. Cultural presentations and other activities are also offered.
Held every last Friday of May, the Gabii sa Kabilin, which is also in celebration of the International Museum Day on May 18, started in May 25, 2007, with three Cebu City museums and a heritage site. Over the years, the event has grown bigger and better. This year, 33 museums, galleries and cultural institutions and sites will  be participating in four cities.  
With a ticket worth P150, visitors can have access to as many museums and sites as they want included in the Gabii sa Kabilin circuit as well as unlimited rides in designated buses and tartanillas (horse-drawn carriages) in Cebu City’s old district.
In Cebu City, participating institutions and sites are Casa Gorordo Musuem, Cathedral Museum of Cebu, Cebu City Museum, Cebu Cultural Center, Colegio del Santo Nino, Don Sergio Ormena and CAP Art Gallery, Fo Guang Shan Chu Un Temple, Fort San Pedro, Iglesia Filipina Independiente Cathedral of the Holy Child, Jose R. Gullas Halad Museum, Museo Parian sa Sugbo, Museo Sugbu, Plaza Independencia, Plaza Parian-AboitizLand Heirtage Pocket, Sacred Heart Parish Church-Alternative Contemporary Art Studio, San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish Church, San Perdo Calungsod Chapel, Sugbo Chinese Heirtage Museum, United Church of Christ in the Philippines Bradford Memorial Chapel, University of the Philippines Rizaliana Museum, University of the Philippines Cebu College and Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House.
In Lapu-Lapu City, participating institutions and sites are the Mactan Shrine, Muelle Osmena, Nuestra Senora Virgen dela Regla Parish Church and Plaza Poblacion. In Mandaue City, participating institutions and sites are Mandaue City Presidencia, Bantayan sa Hari, the plaza complex and National Shrine of St. Joseph. In Talisay City, participating institutions and sites are the Liberation Monument National Historical Shrine, Museo de Talisay and Santa Teresa de Avila Parish Church.
For more information, call (32) 418-7234 local 703 and look for Karl Damayo or Florencio Moreno II; visit www.rafi.org.ph or www.facebook.com/rafi.org.ph; or follow @rafiorgph on Twitter.

Cebu Pacific and GMA Pinoy TV to bring home 100 Pinoy OFWs for free

To drum up interest and further the promotion of its Manila-Dubai route, the country's largest airline Cebu Pacific (CEB) is partnering with GMA Pinoy TV for a promo that will enable 100 Filipinos working in the Middle East to fly home for free. 

"The 100 Lucky Juans promo is our way of recognizing OFWs' (overseas Filipino workers) hard work and significant contributions to the country. Their coming home on our maiden Dubai-Manila flight signifies Cebu Pacific's good news — they can now come home more often," said Lance Gokongwei, CEB president and chief executive officer.
CEB will launch its direct route from Manila to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, in October, the first Philippine carrier to do so. It will offer year-round fares starting at P6,999.
“We are committed to serving global Filipinos, wherever we fly,” Gokongwei declared. “Our hope is that by making fares much more affordable, frequent reunions for overseas Pinoys and their families will be possible via Cebu Pacific's low-fare, direct service.”
As a prelude, the 100 Lucky Juans promo will give free fares to OFWs on the maiden flight through a contest, which will open on May 13. It is open to all Filipinos working in the Middle East, aged 21 to 65 years old, who should be subscribers of GMA international channels and have not returned to the Philippines for at least one year.
Eligible contestants must “like” the Cebu Pacific official Facebook page, click on the 100 Lucky Juans tab, and answer the question: "How will I make my homecoming in the Philippines fun?"
CEB is offering many ways to answer this question. A contestant can make a photo collage, a two-minute video or an essay of 200 words or less. Entries will be judged on adherence to the theme (40 percent), creativity (30), length of stay in the Middle East (15) and number of Facebook likes (15).
There will be seven weekly winners during the contest and eight weekly winners on the last two weeks. Winners will get round-trip tickets from Dubai to Manila. Winners will be announced weekly from June 3 to Sept. 2. They will fly to the Philippines on Oct. 7, thus winners must be available on that date. They can use their return ticket to Dubai anytime until Nov. 30.
"Our partnership with Cebu Pacific comes at an opportune time as we embark on providing greater premium and better service to our Kapuso viewers in the Middle East. We value Cebu Pacific's trust in our ability to reach the Filipino community in the Region, and commend their noble act of public service," said GMA Network chairman and CEO Felipe Gozon.

For more information, visit the official Cebu Pacific Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cebupacificair.

Hazy ribbons of ginger, persimmon, crimson and mauve floated over the lucent blue turning to cobalt water, unraveling the night like a dainty gift, full of romance and surprises. The sunset in Boracay Island’s White Beach area is a gift, a bonus. The beach with its unrivaled fine, white sand is attraction enough, a dream, making it the Philippines’ top tourist destination and one of the world’s best.
At the other side, as vacationers strolled by the beach, played and pondered, the crowded strip of hotels, resorts, restaurants, bars and stores lit up one by one. Later, Boracay would come alive to own its tag as the best party place in the country. Discovery Shores Boracay was awash in golden and indigo lights, lacing the sunset glow on the sand and white beach lounge chairs. Nearby a white tent was set up with long table. Glass stars and bubble were hanging above the table with a captivating setting of leaves, candles and starfish skeletons.
From the kitchens of Discovery Shores Boracay, the best ones in the island if not the whole country, and prepared by Discovery Group’s corporate chef, Anthony Raymond, Alaskan gindara with bruleed citrus, cherry tomatoes and crisp basil, drizzled with calamansi vinaigrette; grilled lobster from Palawan with sweet corn and chive risotto, mushrooms and bacon dashi broth; and warm citrus honey pudding with almond ice cream, brown butter roasted tropical fruits and salted brandy snap crisp delighted the distinguished guests.
That night, March 23, Discovery Shores Boracay gave tribute to its travel agents for their work the past year, thanking them as well as other guests for making the resort, which one of the properties of the Filipino Discovery Leisure Co., which has the Discovery Suites in Metro Manila and Discovery Country Suites Tagaytay, one of the best in the island.
Discovery Shores Boracay was voted as one of the Top 25 Hotels in the Philippines and one of the Top 25 Luxury Hotels in the Philippines by TripAdvisor in its 2013 Travelers’ Choice awards, and is cited among the Top 50 World’s Best Hotels and named the Top Island Hotel in Asia for 2013 by New York-based travel magazine Travel + Leisure, among many others.
Many of the awardees are Korean. This is not surprising as the resort’s number-one clientele, as well as of the whole island, are Koreans.
After the Top Producers 2012 Awarding Ceremony, the resort participated in the worldwide Earth Hour. As the lights were switched off in the public areas of the resort, a black-light presentation amused the crowd by the shore. The only light were from the moon and an Earth Hour sand structure glowing with lit candles at the beach. Swirls of colors danced around and formed images with the dark sea as background. Discovery Shores showed that its commitment to the environment given much importance as their quality of service.
It is not hard to see why Discovery Shores emerged as one of the best in the country and even in the world. Special guests got a sumptuous taste of it from March 22 to 24, which the shore as “A Weekend with the Best,” with the Top Producers 2012 Awarding Ceremony as highlight.
The magic began as we stepped into the room, where guests relations manager Carlo Arboleda helped us with the checking-in. All of the 88 rooms of Discovery Shores Boracay are modern and spacious suites, elegant and cozy. The wide window opened to a commanding view of the sky and sea. The resort perches on one side of a hill, straddling the top down to the beach. The architecture is clean, minimalist, geometric — very likable and stylish. The dominating white paint compliments the green of the pocket gardens and blue of the sky and sea. Our room was one of the topmost, affording us an invigorating vision of clear blueness and space that seeped right inside.
The Discovery Shores Boracay Rooms are categorized into junior suite, one-bedroom suite, one-bedroom suite premier, two-bedroom suite and two-bedroom suite premier.
The junior suite, about 40 to 45 square meter, has bathrooms overlooks a scenic rock garden. The one-bedroom suite, about 65 square meter, has a spacious living area, a nook, a bar and a separate bedroom with two queen size beds. The one-bedroom suite premier, about 60 square meters, on the lower level features a personal space on the deck with either a view of the beach or the lovely landscape of the resort. The two-bedroom suite, about 120 square meters, is suitable for groups of up to six guests and has a living area, a dining area, a bar, two private rooms with their own toilet and bath and a balcony. The two-bedroom suite premier, about 120 square meters, has two levels, including a private deck with an outdoor Jacuzzi on the first level. All suites are luxuriously furnished and equipped for a lovely, lovely stay.
The divan by the window was laden with tokens—beach bags, sun block, luggage tags. The table was laden with treats—a plate of sweets, personalized with the name of the newspaper; a bowl of fresh fruits; a pitcher of cold pandan drink. A banner over the bed welcomes guests as if one is coming home. Immediately, one will surely miss these little sweet things as soon as thoughts of departing pops up. Apart from the luxury, this thoughtful attention to detail and the needs of the guests distinguishes Discovery Shores Boracay from most of the resorts in Boracay and even in the whole country. Each element is given thought for the delight of their guests. Each is like a little surprise gift.
When the bed is turned down for the night, there is a card with a picture of a man lounging in a hammock during sunset and a quote from C.S. Lewis: “You're never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”
Capping the welcome is a foot wash and massage to ease you into dreamy island living. You slip on the Discovery Shores Boracay flip-flops, which amusingly leave imprints of the resort's name on the sand while you walk. You can either flop into the plush bed or explore the island. Discovery Shores Boracay is at a very good location, Station 1, the quieter area of White Beach but near center of activities.
Food is one of its best features. Its Indigo restaurant was shortlisted for the 2010/2011 The Miele Guide, a guide book to Asia's best restaurants. It serves a highly seasonal menu of coastal cuisine and has the island's best selection of wines. Additionally, there is Platitos, which is set up at the beach and features creative appetizers and finger foods. Sands Restaurant offers breakfast and themed buffets by the sea. The Sandbar/Pool Bar serves a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Discovery Shores Boracay itself has facilities for recreation and an enjoyable stay such as the pool and the gym. It also makes arrangement with the island's water sports operators for guests to enjoy Boracay. Try scuba diving, boat trips, snorkeling, paraw sailing, skim boarding, wind surfing and kite surfing, waterskiing, banana boat rides, glass-bottom boat ride and parasailing. The last one we tried. Harnessed to a parachute, one is pulled by a speedboat and gets a panoramic view of Boracay and the surrounding seascape and landscape, an exhilarating ride.      
After a day full of activities, Terra Wellness Spa is a welcome retreat. The number-one hotel spa in Asia, as declared in the Travel + Leisure 2012 World's Best Awards, offers a range of relaxing and pampering treatments. For massages, try Terra's Touch, the signature massage, which is a “deeply relaxing massage” that “combines slow and graceful gliding strokes that are applied to different key pressure points of the body to relieve tension and aid blood circulation. The experience is enhanced with the use of specially blended therapeutic oils.” Terra Wellness Spa offers different packages, facial treatments, scrubs, wraps and foot therapy.
This summer, Discovery Shores Boracay's theme is Happy Summer. Resort staff greets you with “Happy summer,” an infectious smile and hands to their hearts.
“Happy Summer” is our way of saying thank you, said Leeds Trompeta, resident manager of Discovery Shores Boracay.
With it, the resort offers the Happy Summer Package, with the special rate of P8,888 net per night. It includes accommodations in their junior suite, a complimentary buffet breakfast at Sands Restaurant, a roundtrip boat and land transfers from the Boracay airport in Caticlan, Malay. The promo package is ongoing until June 15.
Happiness is not really based on big events. It is made of up of little things such as a sweet note, a piece of pastry, a smile, a delicious piece of dim sum, a beautiful seashell found by the shore, signs of thoughtfulness, a soft bed, the smell of lavender, a request warmly granted, little surprise gifts. One finds these in Discovery Shores Boracay.

For inquiries and reservations, contact Discovery Shores Boracay at (+63 2) 720-8888 or (+63 36) 288-4500 or visit Discoveryhotels-resorts.com.

Jersey Shore meets Extra Challenge in the newest reality show of TV5, set to premiere tonight, April 6, at 9 p.m. 

In partnership with flavored white rum brand Boracay Rum, TV5 concocted this show to make summer hotter, setting it in the country’s leading beach destination and party place, Boracay.
Hosted by model Phoemela Barranda, Boracay Bodies gathers eight individuals — models and stars waiting to make it big — billets them at the Boracay Regency Resort and Spa, and makes them undergo different challenges. Additionally, it follows them as they explore and have fun in the island, usually going to parties at night and getting wasted. Boracay Bodies also feature the dramas among them and the conflicts.
In every episode, contestants are assigned tasks to earn points. In the final episode, they will compete during the grand party for the title of Ultimate Party Boy and Ultimate Party Girl and P500,000 cash each, courtesy of Boracay Rum.
Headlining the cast of four boys and four girls is the controversial TV host Ethel Booba, who is tagged as “The Diva” here. The performer is fresh from her tiff with host Willie Revillame. Her spunk and daring did not wane and are displayed in Boracay Bodies. The show will also reveal that she is often a misunderstood personality, and that she’s simply a doting sister, daughter and a loyal friend.
Joining Booba is Pinoy Big Brother alumna Wendy Valdez. She is tagged as “The Righteous” because she became a Born-Again Christian two years ago. Once feisty and sassy, Valdez is said to have mellowed and “exhibited a more pious attitude.” In most of her conversations with the cast members, she would always preach the messages of the Lord through Bible verses to guide her co-actors to be morally upright.
Another controversial figure is Krista Miller, who is rumored to have wrecked the marriage of Cesar Montano and Sunshine Cruz. Dubbed as “The Mysterious Girl,” Miller is poised to reveal things about the controversy, as well as her true self. “Humanda sila sa mga pasabog ko,” she says.
Rounding up the girls is Helga Krapf, “The Sweet Girl.” Born and raised in Germany, she is always described as sweet, almost naïve. She joined the first batch of Star Circle Quest of ABS-CBN and confessed to be a “late bloomer.” In Boracay Bodies, she may be ready to shed off her “sweet girl” image.
Leading the boys’ side is StarStruck alumnus Joross Gamboa. He is said to be funny and candid, the group clown, thus the tag “The Jester.” While he has the ability to make people around him comfortable, he can also be annoying.
Mossimo Bikini Summit and MTV Best Model of the World-Philippines Manhunt winner Brent Javier is returning to the limelight through this reality show. Being reserved, wholesome, unassuming and charming earned him the “boy-next-door” tag.
Fun-loving and easygoing Victor Silayan is called the Lover Boy. “Game ako sa kahit anong bagay… Whatever happens in Boracay, stays in Boracay,” he says with a naughty smile.
“Nandito ako para mag-relax at mag-enjoy,” avers Luke Jickain, who is called the “Wise Man.” He makes an effort to observe and understand the characters of the other cast members. Thus, he always acted as the peace maker during tense moments, and readily sacrifices himself in order to help his group members.
These individuals make up the cast members of Boracay Bodies, whose adventures and misadventures people can follow during boring Saturday nights.

Singapore is one of my favorite Asian cities. I like the orderliness, the modern cradling the old, the architecture and the public art breaking the monotony of highways and corporate structures. Despite being a vibrant commercial hub, the island at the tip of the Malaysian peninsula embraces arts and culture. Even with the urban bustle, one can find many quiet spaces.
Something is constantly happening in Singapore. There are always new developments. For a very small state, this is amazing. There are always new things to discover about Singapore.
Because of these and the country’s aggressive marketing, Singapore has become a major tourist destination. Over the past 10 years, tourist arrivals steadily increased. In 2011, Singapore counted 13.2 million visitors, a 13 percent increase from the previous year. Of these, 678,000 are Filipinos. Many Filipinos are enticed by Singapore. According to Cebu Pacific, the Singapore route is one of their busiest. The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) reveals that more and more Filipinos are visiting Singapore. The 2011 tally shows a 24 percent increase compared to 544,000 in 2010, making the Philippines the sixth country with the most visitors, behind Indonesia, China, Malaysia, Australia and India. But in terms of growth, the Philippines ranks third.
For this summer, a traditional time for travel, Singapore has many new things to offer Filipino excursionists.
“Summer in Singapore is always a treat for travelers, as well as the locals. Week after week, there’s always something new that the city offers. This year, to kick off what promises to be an amazing summer, Singapore is going full force in keeping everyone in the city busy and entertained. With concerts from chart-topping artists, award-winning Broadway musicals, outdoor runways shows, food expos, mind-blowing shopping sales and highly anticipated theme park openings, this summer of 2013 at Singapore looks to be an experience that no traveler should dare miss,” said Sherina Chan, STB area director for Philippines and Brunei.
One attraction to look forward to is the 101-hectare Gardens by the Bay (ticket price at P924) at the Marina Bay. Winner of the World Building of the Year Award at the prestigious World Architecture Festival Awards 2012, Gardens by the Bay has the largest climate-controlled glasshouses and conservatories with interesting flora and fauna displays. Go to the Bay South Garden, which consists of Flower Dome and Cloud Forest cooled conservatories; 18 Supertrees; and other signature features. Additionally, there are outdoor and indoor spaces where different events are held, and numerous dining outlets.
Universal Studios Singapore has a new ride, the Sesame Spaghetti Space Chase, the first Sesame Street ride in Southeast Asia which has a special rise-and-shine breakfast programme where one can have a fun dining experience with Sesame Street characters while feasting on a breakfast buffet spread at Loui’s Pizza.
One can visit the world’s largest oceanarium, the Marine Life Park (ticket price at P957), which opened on Dec. 7, 2012. The marine park boasts of 100,000 marine animals from over 800 species. Kids will enjoy its Adventure Cove, which has towering slides, wave pools, tropical jungle gardens and grottos inhabited by whimsical sea creatures.
This year, Asia’s first river-themed park, which boasts of the largest collection of freshwater wildlife, will open. The River Safari (ticket price at P891) recreates the environment of the world’s great rivers — the Mississippi, Congo, Nile, Ganges, Murray, Mekong and Yangtze. It also has the region’s largest panda exhibit.

Where to stay
There are many choices for accommodations in Singapore — from backpackers’ lodge and budget hotels to luxury resorts — catering to different types of persuasions as well as budget. If you want to try out new ones, there are a number that have just opened. The price range for the four to six-star hotels is from P6,050 to P13,200, while the two to three-star hotels is from P1,925 to P5,500. Budget hotels cost from P1,925 to P5,500.
For nature lovers, the six-star Equarius Hotel is set in a tropical rainforest with rooms that overlook the Marine Life Park. An exclusive 24-hour personal butler service is provided for guests staying in suite rooms.
The five-star W Hotel is located in the new upscale lifestyle precinct of Sentosa, the Sentosa Cove. It features rainwater harvesting and collection of condensate from its air conditioning system, as well as a smart room air-conditioning system that automatically switches off when balcony doors are open.
The multi-awarded, four-star Parkroyal on Pickering is near the Raffles Place financial district and Chinatown with 15,000 square metres of sky gardens, reflecting pools, waterfalls, planter terraces and green walls to show its “hotel-in-a-garden” concept.
The Capri by Frasers is near Expo and Changi Airport with 313 studios with kitchenettes and Spa Suite with Ofuro-style private baths and TVs.
The three-star Days Hotel is in the cultural enclave of Balestier Road, 15 minutes away from Orchard Road.
Set to open this year are Sofitel So, Westin Singapore Marina Bay, Holiday Inn Express, The Amoy, Ramada Hotel Singapore at Zhongshan Park and One Farrer Hotel and Spa. It is estimated that by 2015, Singapore will have nearly 63,000 rooms from 53,895 rooms in 2012.

Shopping stops
Shopping is a popular activity of Filipinos in Singapore. Orchard Road remains to be Singapore’s iconic shopping district. There are also shopping precincts in Holland Village, Haji Lane, Ann Siang Hill, Raffles City and Bugis Street.
Additionally, there are new family-friendly malls that just opened to delight shopaholics.
JCube in Jurong East features Singapore’s first Olympic-size ice rink with a 460-seat gallery, designed to host international events and competitions for sports such as ice hockey, curling and speed skating.
Located in the heart of Changi Business Park, directly opposite the Singapore Expo MRT station, the Changi City Point has a landscaped garden with interactive art installations, playground and a tree-house trail for children.
On the other hand, Bugis+ is along Victoria Street, opposite Bugis MRT station, boasting of more than 30 new and established brands, and over 90 outlets, including the largest Uniqlo store in Singapore. The 38-year-old mall Plaza Singapura has undergone a 21-month makeover and is now nearly the size of Ion Orchard, all linked to Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. The mall front now stretches 170 meters along Orchard Road. The new wing has about 80 shops, including several brands that are new to Singapore.
Scotts Square is a new luxury mall located between the Grand Hyatt and Marriott hotels in Orchard Road, featuring international luxury brands and designer labels.
For techies, go to Funan DigitaLife Mall and Mustafa Centre.
Shoppers must anticipate the Great Singapore Sale, happening from May 31 to July 28, where one can get big discounts on almost everything.

Dining and more dining
Singapore has an exciting culinary landscape, offering a multitude of dining options. In fact, celebrity chefs such as Mario Batali, Susur Lee, Wolfgang Puck and Joel Robuchon have opened their restaurants here. New restaurants are opening every year.
The Satay by the Bay is a new waterfront eatery at Gardens by the Bay offering satay, chicken rice and grilled seafood.
The Marche, which has two branches in Somerset and Vivo City, offers different kinds of cuisines. An interesting feature is the “cashless” system where the diner is given a card to buy food.
Also called the Food Republic, the St. James Beer Garden at 3 Sentosa Gateway serves local fare such as satay, rojak, chicken wing and fried oysters. It also features live bands.
Buffet lovers can troop to Buffet Town, Sakae Sushi, Coleman’s Café, Peninsula Excelsior, Seoul Garden, Carousel @ Royal Plaza on Scotts, Sakura International Buffet, Hanabi Japanese Restaurant, Zhou’s Kitchen Gourmet Buffet, and Kuishin Bo Japanese Buffet.
For a truly gastronomic adventure, foodies can go to the World Street Food Jamboree, from May 31 to June 9, at the F1 Pit Building and Paddock. It promises 40 of the world’s best street-food masters who will offer everything from Indonesian kaki limas to American food trucks and Chinese food inns. Famous foodies such as Anthony Bourdain and Jean-Georges Vongerichten are expected to grace this affair. This is definitely one culinary experience any food lover shouldn’t miss!

Eventful
Singapore hosts over 30,000 art and entertainment events in a year. When one goes there this summer, there is bound to be a major event. Currently happening is Fashion Steps Out @ Orchard 2013 from March 15 to April 28, showcasing the latest fashion trends with outdoor runway shows and a fashion bazaar. Then, there is the Asia Fashion Exchange 2013 featuring new local and Asian talents, latest fashion insights from fashion thought leaders at Asia Fashion Summit, fashion concerts, after-parties and runway shows. The trade show will be from May 16 to 17, while the emporium will be from May 18 to 19.

Loving the nightlife
Party lovers will love Singapore as it has a very vibrant nightlife. Hip bars nowadays are the Pangea, Avalon, St James Power Station and Zouk. Currently rooftop bars is becoming trendy. Check out the Lantern, Ku D‚ Ta, Orgo, 1-Altitude, Loof and Helipad.

Getting there
With the rise budget airlines, going to Singapore has been convenient and affordable for Filipinos. The Philippines’ largest carrier, Cebu Pacific (CEB), boasts of the most flight options and schedules to Singapore with up to 52 weekly direct flights from Manila, Clark, Cebu and Iloilo. It also offers the lowest year-round fares starting at P1,599.
“Singapore has always been one of our guests’ favorite destinations. Now, not only can they fly direct to this city-state from four major Philippine cities, they can also make the most of their travel budgets with these special summer discounts,” revealed Cebu Pacific vice president for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.
Cebu Pacific is partnering with the Singapore Tourism Board to offer deals and discounts to its passengers to Singapore from March 28 to July 31. They can avail of special deals by presenting their Cebu Pacific Singapore boarding passes.  
CEB passengers has a 15 percent discount on the Singapore Flyer, said to be the world’s largest giant observation wheel, which can take you as high as 165 meters. Here, they can have a spectacular dinner through the Singapore Flyer-Sky Dining Flight package. It is available at 15 percent off by using the Cebu2013 booking code on the Singapore Flyer Web site, and this includes a four-course fine dining menu served by a dedicated butler, plus free entry to Journey of Dreams Interactive Gallery.
At the Marine Life Park in Resorts World Sentosa, passengers can get 10 percent off on one-day S.E.A. Aquarium or Adventure Cove Waterpark passes. They can get up to six tickets at a discounted rate per Cebu Pacific boarding pass.
There is also a one-for-one promo at the Jurong Bird Park. Those looking for an authentic taste of Singapore can also book the Original Singapore Walks and get 20 percent off on The Tipple Exchange Walk to discover a different side of the Lion City.

For more information on the Cebu Pacific and Singapore Tourism Board promo, visit http://www.cebupacificair.com/HTML/hot-deals.html. For more information on seat sales and events happening in Singapore, visit www.cebupacificair.com and www.yoursingapore.com/ph.

Typhoon “Crising” had reached Manila by the time we boarded the bus for Baguio City. It seemed an inauspicious start for a trip. Eventually, the typhoon would flood several areas in Metro Manila and leave four people dead. A few hours earlier, a bus carrying students and teachers from Marinduque on an educational trip had collided with a truck along Marcos Highway in Badiwan, Tuba, Benguet, a few kilometers from Baguio, with seven fatalities and many injured. A couple of days after, someone tossed a grenade inside an office under the Melvin Jones Grandstand at Burnham Park, just before the grand float parade started at the historical core of Baguio City. There were pickpockets and petty criminals descending on the festival crowd, but the people would not be discouraged; likely they were incognizant of the unfortunate events. They flocked to Baguio City to enjoy its famous nippy air and the Panagbenga: Baguio Flower Festival, the highlight of which transpired in the last weekend of February. The gloom turned to blooms, a myriad of multicolored blooms.
According to Baguio Rep. Bernardo Vergara, the police estimated visitors to be 2.2 million this year, the highest attendance in the festival’s 18-year history. Attendance is steadily increasing about 10 percent every year, said businessman Freddie Alquiros, chairman of the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation (BFFFI), which operates, organizes and manages the Panagbenga festival. This, despite the mishaps and this year’s coincidental celebration of the similarly pictographic Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta at the Clark Freeport Zone in Angeles City, Pampanga.
Baguio City, about 250 kilometers north of Manila, has always been a favorite getaway, particularly in Luzon. Because of its elevation, it enjoys a cool climate attracting people who want to escape the tropical heat. Visitors would go to the city’s different tourist spots and shop for now iconic Baguio items such as grass brooms (which is actually made outside Baguio), strawberries, jams and fresh vegetables. Despite emerging destinations in the Philippines, Baguio, with its American colonial look, remains a romantic and sentimental place for many people. Baguio is also the educational and commercial hub of the Cordillera region. The Panagbenga gives people another reason to visit the City of Pines.
Long-time Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan said, “When it (Panagbenga) was founded, there were four major reasons. (Until now) it is an occasion for us to thank the Lord, especially for the trees, the flowers, the natural environment. It is an opportunity for the people of Baguio, as well as of the Cordilleras, to gather and work together and have fun. It is also an opportunity to show our unique cultural heritage. That’s why there is a Cordillera motif in many aspects of the festival. We are also doing this to sustain our tourism industry.”
The Panagbenga: Baguio Flower Festival was created by lawyer Damaso Bangaoet Jr., then managing director of Camp John Hay, formerly an American military recreation facility, of the John Hay Poro Point Development Corp. in 1996. During this time, many places in the country were developing festivals for merry gathering, as well as promotion. The flower was chosen as focal point because it is the most visible and attractive feature of Baguio. Indeed, the city has many pocket gardens, and parks are usually abloom. With support from the local government and communities, the festival blossomed. Its unique feature, at least compared to other festivals in the country, is the parade of floats, which are covered in flowers, inspired by the century-old American New Year’s Day celebration Tournament of Rose Parade in Pasadena, California.
Filipinos are fond of stretching festive occasions. The Panagbenga is actually celebrated for a whole month with activities such as expos, fairs, shows and competitions. Every year, they introduce new features. This year, they had the carpet of flowers at the Athletic Bowl.
While the Panagbenga is spectacular, some have considered it an “artificial” festival, not rooted in tradition and commercial in its conception. But in 2007, Oscar Palabyab, then Undersecretary for Tourism Services and Regional Offices of the Department of Tourism (DoT), expressed that Panagbenga’s being a “product of the imagination” (as opposed to tradition) and “purely an invention” as a manifestation of creativity. Sometimes we have to create something, Palabyab said, mentioning that Malaysia built the Petronas Towers, which has become a tourist draw and a distinction of said country. He said we should do something similar in some places in our country, where there isn’t much tradition, heritage and natural resources from which to draw attractions. The Panagbenga is man-made, but, he said, it is “related to what they have right now” — the flowers.
Over the years, the Panagbenga has been trying to incorporate the indigenous cultures of the Cordilleras, home of many ethnic groups such as the Ibaloi, Kankanaey, Ifugao, Kalinga, Apayao, Isneg and Bontoc.

Injecting more culture
The name Panagbenga was adopted in late 1996, a Kankanaey term meaning “a time of flowering” or “blossoming season.” The name was suggested by Ike Picpican, an archivist and curator of the Saint Louis University Museum. Lately, Cordilleran cultures have been featured more and more. This was evident during the street dancing parade organized by the Baguio Cultural Society. The organization was created three years ago to inject more culture into the festival, particularly in the street dancing event, fulfilling BFFFI's aim of strengthening the cultural aspect of the festival, related Alquiros. Thus, one can see culture in the street dancing and flowers on the floats, the two biggest aspects of the festival, said Anthony de Leon, Baguio Country Club general manager and BFFFI co-chairman.
"The quality of the street dancing and the floats has surpassed those from previous years," revealed De Leon.
The street dancing, which happened on Feb. 23, was participated in by 13 groups from Baguio and nearby communities. They paraded together with the elementary school drum and lyre groups around the city's historical core. Each group depicted local folklore, legend or tradition. Traditional clothes were worn. Many had bright costumes to stand out, sometimes creating an incongruous mix of indigenous textiles and modern materials and colors.
Last year's winner, the Kabayan Youth Cultural Dance Troupe of Kamora National High School in Kabayan, Benguet, is also this year's winner in the street dancing open category. They brought their Adivay Festival, a celebration of good harvest, and told the story of Gadate, who helped save the town and the harvest of kintoman, a sweet variety of rice said to be from Bugan, goddess of grains.
"It is also Bugan who sent the snake when the people forgot to do the cañao as thanksgiving," they stated. "In Gadate's dream, the snake told him to ask his people to perform the cañao and offer liver and tapuey, a rice wine. When he followed as instructed, the snake left Kabayan but went to Kapangan. The people of Kapangan sought the help a mambunong, a local priest from Kabayan. The mambunong made the snake sleep and was able to slay the snake. As reward, he was given carabaos and pigs. He brought the head of the snake to Kabayan and celebrated the conquest, shouting 'Adivay!' with the dancing of the cañao and bindiyan. The gods were pleased, and so Kabunyan rewarded them with good harvest and flowering sceneries as a sign of goodwill."
The Litangfan Cultural Group from Bontoc, Mountain Province, won the second prize with their Te-er si Saray-at, the eight-day rest period observed after the planting activity. The rituals and traditions of each of the eight days were depicted.
The third place winner, Apayao Ipasindayaw from the province of Apayao, depicted the kabinnulig, explained as "the strong relationship between a farmer and his carabao."
Their narrative read like a tender love story: "Early in the day of a planting season, this kind of companionship starts with the farmer preparing the carabao for a long day of work in planting caravasa seeds. After three months, the field turns into a haven of caravasa flowers, signifying the hopes of both farmer and carabao. As the flowers turn into young squash, the friendship between farmer and carabao is sealed and promises a bright future for both of them. The abundance of flowers and squash signifies the deities' blessings to the people of Apayao. As a form of thanksgiving, the people perform the taddo and talip in rich and colorful Apayao regalia. The feasting and merrymaking are highlighted by the kabinnulig's haul of ripe squash in the karison, or wooden cart, which marks the farmer's role of returning the favor for a carabao's job well done by taking care of the animal-friend until the next planting season."
The rest of the participants also showcased their own traditions and stories. The Tanghalang Teatro Pino of Pines City National High School depicted the hulin, a ritual in Bokiawan, Hungduan, Ifugao. Baguio City National High School's Teatro Mi Pengantaay Pagey told the story of Iowak, the hero of a Benguet folktale from Itogon. The Bampkabia Cultural Dance Troupe of Baguio City Academy Colleges showed the traditional wedding feast of Bontoc called chono. The Philexian from St. Louis High School Philex depicted the Kankanaey thanksgiving ritual.
The Tabuk Matagoan from Tabuk City, Kalinga, showed their abuyog, the practice of helping each other "on rotation basis." Also from Tabuk, Saint Theresita's School of Tabuk's Bumabanga Ti Kalinga extolled the traditional pottery of the town of Pasil. Tsinakhon Cultural Ensemble of Saint Louis University Laboratory High School depicted the practices of planting rice during the tsakhon, the dry season. The Sakusak Traditional Ensemble of Pines City National High School Annex displayed the insalay rain ritual from Abra. Saint Louis University's Cordillera Cultural Performing Group told the story of the tikgi bird of the Tingguian of Abra. The Tribu Ari-tau from Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya, showed the Benguet's ngayow, the victory ritual.

Floral showcases
The following day, the float parade drew more people. Because it is expensive to make a float of flowers, the parade is participated in mostly by companies, which find it a colorful way to advertise. With the election season a few months away, politicians are known to take advantage of festivals to campaign. Festival organizers decided to discourage them from campaigning. They said that political candidates can join the event by riding on their floats, but distributing campaign materials, as well as going to the crowd were discouraged. Violators will be banned. Soap brand Placenta remains banned for disrupting the parade when its celebrity endorser Melanie Marquez and her companions threw product samples at the crowd.  
Vergara boasted that Panagbenga is the most organized, the most peaceful and cleanest this year.
The floats followed the guideline that 95 percent of their floats should be covered with flowers. Although there is no restriction on where participants get their flowers, all of them sourced their flowers from farms in the Cordillera region, particularly in La Trinidad, Tublay, Tuba and Sablan in Benguet, boosting the local cut flower industry.
Celebrities such as Robin Padilla, Bong Revilla, Rhian Ramos, Daniel Matsunaga and Gary Valenciano rode on some of the floats, exciting the crowd.
The Le Monet Hotel float clinched the first prize this year followed by the floats of the Department of Agrarian Reform and North Luzon Expressway (Nlex). There were a total of 19 floats, including the ones from the city of Baguio, the Baguio Country Club, SM City Baguio, Psalmstre, Creworks Asia, Smart Communications, Jollibee Foods Corp., Taloy Norte Farmers Multi-purpose Cooperative, GMA Network, ABS-CBN Network, International Pharmaceuticals Inc., San Miguel Brewery, the town of La Trinidad in Benguet and M Lhuillier.   
That day, Session Road in Bloom, also a crowd drawer, opened transforming the historic street into a colorful market of native products and of course flowers.
Vergara is optimistic that next year's festival would be bigger especially with the extension of the Nlex up to Rosario, La Union, dramatically shortening the traveling time from Manila to Baguio, which usually takes about eight hours.
Many Baguio-based companies are supportive of the Pangabenga. Among the biggest are The Manor at Camp John Hay and The Forest Lodge, promoting the festival, providing guests with lovely accommodations and delectable dishes from its restaurant whose chef is the renowned Billy King at the helm, and ensuring that they experience the festival as a downpour of merriment, a collision of colors and an explosion of excitement.

Premiere triathlon series back for another run

Men's skin care brand Vaseline Men will again be staging Vaseline Men XTerra Off-road Triathlon Series after its maiden venture last year. According to athlete and event organizer Fred Uytengsu, three big events like a trail run, a mud run and an off-road duathlon will make up this year's triathlon series. He also said there will be a new and modified racecourse and race central with new elements, but last year's Graveyard will still be there. Also, there will be a "big field of professionals" joining.
Again to be held in Liloan in Cebu, the Vaseline Men XTerra Off-road Triathlon Series will start with the Vaseline Men XTerra Championship Weekend from March 2 to 3, featuring a trail run and triathlon races.
On March 2, the XTerra Lite and the XTerra Philippines Championship will be held. The XTerra Lite involves a 500-meter swim, 20-kilometer bike and a five-kilometer run, while the XTerra Philippines Championship involves a 1.5-kilometer swim, 35-kilometer bike and a 10-kilometer run. Registration for the March 2 triathlon events is ongoing in the Vaseline Men XTerra Philippines Web site (www.xterraphil.com). The next day, trail run for 21, 10 and five-kilometer distances for both the male and female categories will be held. Registration for the March 3 trail run is ongoing at www.xterraphil.com and in all Runner Stores nationwide. Organizers are expecting more than 300 participants representing 17 countries.
Participants to watch out for are the foreign professional athletes, including Ben Allen (Australia), Olivier Marceau (France), Dan Hugo (South Africa), Sam Gardner (United Kingdom), Matt O'Halloran (Canada), Rory Downil (United Kingdom), Bradley Sean Weiss (South Africa), Shahrom Abdullah (Malaysia), Lesley Paterson (United Kingdom), Renata Bucher (Switzerland), Jacqui Slack (United Kingdom) and Carina Wasle (Austria).
A total of $15,000 prize money is at stake for the pro category while P120,000 is up for grabs for the Filipino Elite category. Although there now three to four thousand triathletes in the Philippines, according to Uytengsu, triathlon is relatively a new sport in the Philippines, and the country is not quite ready yet. Thus, a separate category is created for Filipino athletes. But Uytengsu said that the Filipinos are fast catching up.  
Aside from the money, the top age group finishers will vie for 40 slots to the XTerra World Championships in Maui, Hawaii. On the other hand, top age group finishers for the 21-kilometer trail run will qualify for the world championships for the XTerra Trail Run in Hawaii this year. Last year, a five-man Philippine team was sent to the XTerra Off-road Triathlon Series Global Championship in October 2012.
Jonathan Pua, brand manager of Vaseline Men, shared that the triathlon series is good venue to promote their products, which target 20 to 30-year-old men who are into sports. Vaseline Men's range of skin care products is said to be apt for men who engage in physically demanding activities including triathlons as they help protect the skin from the sun's harmful rays and wash away dirt, dust and pollution. Products include facial washes, face moisturizers, body lotion and body wash, which are available in major supermarkets, drugstore and department stores nationwide. Vaseline Men signed a three-year partnership with Xterra.

Interested parties may also register for the trail run at selected Watson's branches. For every purchase of Vaseline Men 100-gram facial wash, they will also get a discount for the race registration fee. Visit Watson's at SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall and SM North Edsa from Feb. 9 to 10, 15 to 17 and 22 to 24. For more information, visit www.xterraphil.com or visit www.facebook.com/vaselinemenph. You can also visit ROX and Runnr stores for more details.

The Anvaya Cove 13th Philippine Hobie Challenge goes to Zambales and Bataan

One of the country's premiere extreme sailing competitions is on again. The Philippine Hobie Challenge will gather Hobie catamaran sailors and enthusiasts to tackle the fickle sea. Every year, the Philippine Hobie Challenge goes to different parts of the Philippines not only to confront its waters but also to appreciate and highlight the beauty of the area.
This year, the Hobie catamaran race explores the coastline of northwestern Philippines, particularly the coastline of Zambales and Bataan, culminating in Avaya Cove.
Ayala Land Premier's 470-hectare residential and leisure development comes in as an important partner of the Philippine Hobie Challenge, which is organized by Philippine Inter-Island National Sailing Foundation (Phinsaf) and was started in late 1999 by a small group of international Hobie 16 catamaran sailors.     
The Hobie race aims to promote the Philippines as a sailing destination in Asia, said Roman Azanza of Phinsaf.
This is not the first time Anvaya Cove is hosting this kind of event. Last year, the National Hobie Championship was held at Anvaya Cove Beach and Nature Club. Anvaya Cove has also hosted triathlons and kayak races.
The Anvaya Cove 13th Philippine Hobie Challenge will happen from Feb. 23 to March 1.
The first leg on Feb. 24 will start at Dawal Resort in Candelaria, Zambales, and will go around Dasol Bay, Zambales. The next day, the in shore series will be held in Hermana Mayor, Zambales. The second leg on Feb. 26 will move from Hermana Mayor Island to Capones Vista Beach Resort in San Antonio, Zambales. The third leg the following day will see participants sailing to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan. The last legs will be in Anvaya Cove Resort in Morong, Bataan.
There will be 16 teams participating. They are Paul Symes and Alannah Symes (Team Sweet as Kiwis, New Zealand); Brent Chamberlain and Roman Barberis (Team Cheech and Chong, New Zealand and France); Monchu Garcia and Bianca Garcia (Team Beauty and the Beast, Philippines); Ed Legarda and Edwin Lucero (Team Die Hard, Philippines); Bruce Tardrew and Sarah Turnbull (Team Fart in the Wind! Australia); David King and Alistair King (Team Felix's Philippines Adventure, Australia); Will King and Chris Wild (Team Optimum Height, Australia); Mike Lohmann and Justin Reynolds (Team Lantau Buccaneers Chaps, Canada and England); Alex Chen and Jason Lin (Team Taiwan, Taiwan); Luigi Manzi and Yvonne Manzi (Team Mama Mia, Italy); Dennis Cruz and Arnel Ornales (Team Koroks, Philippines); William Westervelt and Patrick Doyle (Team Flyin' Hawaiians, Hawaii, USA); Ian Watson and Robert Watson (Team Watto, Australia); Andrew Locke and Eric Tomacruz (Team oble-ooowww, Australia and Philippines); Greg Charles and Kathryn Corston (Team Tiki Tour,  New Zealand); and Jun Villanueva and Neil Bernardo (Team Mobile 1, Philippines).
Aside from the races, the Hobie race is also an opportunity for those involved to help out, especially the people of the places where they hold the race.     
"Every year, the Challenge raises donations of school supplies for local public schools," said Carla Kramer of Phinsaf. "However for the 13th Philippine Hobie Challenge, we are partnering with charitable institutions to donate solar-powered lights to help families who do not have electricity."
Aside from that, environmental concerns are also taken in serious consideration, which is something Ayala Land considers important.
"The environment has always been one of Ayala Land's top priorities when developing large-scale, mixed-use developments, and Avaya Cove is a solid proof of this commitment," said Paolo Viray, Anvaya Cove project development manager. "The property is seamlessly developed to follow its location's natural landscape and is also geared toward bringing amenities and programs that complement its environs."

For more information, visit www.hobiechallenge.ph. For more information on Ayala Land, visit www.ayalalandpremier.com, e-mail ask@ayalalandpremier.com or call 908-3908.

Years of diligence and learning paid off for a Metro Manila band as they were hailed as the champion of the 2012 Red Horse Beer Pambansang Muziklaban Rock Challenge grand finals held last Feb. 2 at the reclaimed field at the corner of Edsa and Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City. 

A Music Theory (AMT), formed in 2008 by four college students of the De La Salle University, took home P500,000 cash prize, an exclusive recording contract and a big shot at Filipino rock superstardom.
“When our band was announced the grand champion, it felt magical,” described lead vocalist and band leader Jaime Miguel “Cholo” Pabalan. “It was the kind of happiness kids feel when they walk through the gates of Disneyland for the first time whilst an instrumental version of ‘A Whole New World’ is playing in the background. It was just pure, unadulterated happiness. After over four years as a band playing gig after gig after gig around the metro, it felt as if the hard work finally paid off. Also, we felt honored to be given the chance to hold the Red Horse banner just like the industry’s finest bands do.”
This was the third time AMT joined Muziklaban.
“We got booted at eliminations back in 2009 and 2010. We decided not to join in 2011 to concentrate on band growth. Luckily, the third time was the charm in 2012,” Pabalan related.
AMT traces its beginnings in 2006 when Pabalan, JC Santos (lead guitar/backup vocals), Lorce Manaois (bass guitar), John Jo Presingular (drums/backup vocals) and other classmates made a music video project for their Filipino class, calling themselves Sevensticks. After the project, they thought of starting a real band. The group fizzled out with the remaining members calling themselves as BFKAS (Band Formerly Known as Sevensticks). Manaois met Santos again in a philosophy class and revived their intent of forming a band, now calling it A Music Theory, officially born on Oct. 24, 2008 at the JNJ Studio in Malate, Manila.
AMT started doing gigs and eventually joining Muziklaban.
“The Red Horse Beer Pambansang Muziklaban is the premier amateur band competition in the country. We saw it as an opportunity to break into an industry we love to get a chance to get to do what we all love doing. We want the songs we play to be heard so that people would be able to appreciate it and feel all the emotions it holds just like we do. Also, we would like to someday be able to contribute to our country’s rich history of music,” Pabalan said.
Now on its 14th year, the Red Horse Beer Pambansang Muziklaban Rock Challenge, an annual rock band competition to promote the strong beer brand of San Miguel Brewery, the Philippines’ leading beer maker, has become an influential force in the music industry, discovering new talents and establishing itself as a major rock event in the country.
Pabalan explained: “The opportunity Muziklaban brings to an amateur band is golden and opportunities like that do not come often in the indie band scene. And being a Muziklaban champion is really something to be proud of. It’s a title that a band will carry forever. Winning at Muziklaban is possibly the best opportunity that any aspiring amateur band can get.”
Past winners include 3rd Degree (2001), 18th Issue (2002), Fuseboxx (2003), Hardboiledeggz (2006), Mayonnaise (2004), Sunflower Day Camp (2005), Gayuma (2007), Even (2008), Hatankaru (2009), Light of Luna (2010) and David vs. Goliath (2011).
Months of elimination rounds conducted around the country precedes each Muziklaban grand finals. This year, Red Horse Beer came up with five bands to represent the different regions — A Music Theory for Metro Manila, Memoronnie for Mindanao, Fidortchi for southern Luzon, Diesngage for the Visayas and Katulad for northern Luzon.
Based in Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, in northeastern Mindanao, Memoronnie plays indie/alternative rock with four members — Rosaire (lead vocals), Philip (drums), Jfoi (guitar) and Dancapz (bass guitar). The band is named in memory of a deceased member, Ronnie. On the other hand, Disengage, based in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, in Central Visayas, plays hardcore and Death Metal rock. Formed in 2011, it is composed of Julius Mananquil (vocals), Jesse Antiquiera (guitar), Kim Nochefranca (bass), Matthew Lee (guitar) and Joseph Corleone (drums).
The northern Luzon band Katulad is from Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, and was formed in 2011. Its members — Dave Gualberto (vocals), Allan Teneza (bass), Andrew Sardillo (guitar), Paul Tumaliuan (guitar), Dan Calling (percussion), Gudo Dela Cruz (percussion), Gideon Reyes (drums) — were formerly members of other bands. With Pinikpikan, Kalayo, Francis Magalona and Eraserheads as influences, Katulad fuses ethnic and modern music to form what they call “malayang musika” (literally, free music).
Fidortchi hails from Naga City in the Bicol Region and is composed of Rommel Sandagon (vocals), Alvin Bautista (drums), Mario Bulao (bass), Mark Owen Mendez (guitars) and Nong Legacion Jr. (guitars). Formed on October 2010, the band has been visible in the Bicol music scene, as well as numerous band competitions.
Hosted by Francis Brew Reyes and model Phoemela Barranda, the grand finals attracted hundreds rock enthusiasts, beer drinkers and anyone in between. Aside from the performances at the main stage, there were many things going on. The Pinoy Ink Tent featured tattoo demonstration and exhibit by Chris Garcia, notable tattoo artist in Hollywood and brother of Slapshock’s lead singer. The Extreme Sports Zone had BMX and skateboard stunt riders. The Horsepower Zone highlighted amateur bands poised to join next year’s Red Horse Beer Pambansang Muziklaban Rock Challenge. There were also wall climbing activities, ring toss games, etc.
At the main stage, guest performers included band ambassadors Slapshock, Kjwan, Wilabaliw, Greyhoundz and Razorback as well as past champs Mayonnaise, Gayuma, Even, Hatankaru and Light of Luna. Pepe Smith and his band Juna dela Cruz and Ely Buendia with his band Pupil provided the highlights. The event also unveiled the Red Horse Beer motorbike customized by Hardcore Brothers, which boasts of an original Red Horse airbrush paint finish, bobber fender, Vance and Hines exhaust, Cobra Chrome Pwerflo Air Intake custom rev meter, fuel cap, handle bars, solo saddle, tail lights, deuce-style signal lights and Kuryakin grips. This was raffled off to patrons.
In between the established bands, the contenders performed like no tomorrow. This year, they performed original songs as well as covers. AMT’s songs caught the attention of judges and audience.
“The two original songs we played during the finals were ‘Anthem’ and ‘Endgame,’” Pabalan said. “‘Anthem’ is a song about feeling your way through life and not just living by so-called rules and norms dictated by society. Endgame, on the other hand, is sort of an emotional love song based on certain personal experiences by the band’s bassist.”
Pabalan related their journey: “The semi-finals (which was also Rakrakan Series XVII) and the grand finals of the Red Horse Beer Pambansang Muziklaban were the first two times wherein we got to play on a huge stage in front of a huge crowd. We learned that bar gigs are so much different. The nervousness comes at a different level on a big stage with thousands of people watching as compared to a bar with dozens. Also, we learned the true meaning of perseverance.”
He further said: “In preparation for the RHB Muziklaban Grand Finals, we rehearsed for two hours, two to three times a week. We also took a couple of gigs to help us prepare for the finals. Also, we tried our best to eat right and stay healthy to avoid any and all kinds of illnesses that could come upon us. Murphy’s Law was on the back of our minds so we took extra precaution in almost everything. However, it didn’t hurt to have a little fun. We still went out and chilled as usual to keep the vibe warm and happy.”
AMT’s win followed the victories of National Capital Region bets Mayonnaise in 2004 and Hatankaru in 2009.
“We will be touring with the industry’s finest bands, learning from them every step of the way. And we’ll also be starting on our first album very soon. Hopefully, it all rolls on the right direction from there,” Pabalan said.
With a Muziklaban feather in their cap, Pabalan revealed the band’s dreams: “Because we love what we do, we’d love to tour and play around the country and even abroad if given the chance. We’d also like to release an album or two so that our music would be heard. And who knows? Maybe we could even become a successful, international band someday which harbors national pride and serves as an influence to others to achieve greatness and be conferred upon the Order of Lakandula. Dream big, right?”

For more information, visit www.redhorsebeer.com.