Boracay Sun | October Issue

WWW.BORACAYSUN.COMOCTOBER 2014 | VOL. IV NO. 9 | BORACAY’S MONTHLY NEWS ON RECYCLED PAPER

WHAT’S INSIDEIN THE NEWSTHE EXPATRIATE7107 ISLANDSLIFE & LEISUREPEOPLECOVER STORYEVENTSIN ROOMHEALTH & WELL-BEINGINDULGEENVIRONMENT

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BLAST FROM THE PASTBy Pauline Astronaut

7107 ISLANDSSide Trip to

Puerto Galera

LIFE & LEISUREPet Corner 101

PEOPLEKitchen Profiles

HEALTH &WELL-BEING

Hang Over Cures

INDULGE Halloween 2014

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All of us are here for a reason. Most of us are not from Boracay, some are not even from the Philippines. But we

have chosen Boracay as our home. We all have different reasons of why we made the big step of moving here but what we do have in common is the love for the Island. Some say that the

old Boracay was paradise, while others say the Island is soon to be over. The truth is, the paradise is inside you. It’s what you choose to see, to experience, who you decide to share your days with, what you want to look at.

Yes, the Island has a lot of things to improve and work on. And it breaks

my heart to see all the unresponded issues. But, we can always choose to see the positive. Some things never change like gathering for sunsets around a cold beer, watching the sun dive down in the sea and the sky turning into a palette of incredible colors. Our community is still strong and larger than it has ever been. We can work

together and change the things we can.

If all of us start by doing the little things in our own backyard, we will be able to keep the paradise we love so much. Come with us in this journey across Boracay’s story.

2 FROM THE TEAMTRICK OR TREAT! It’s Halloween once more – the much-awaited event in Boracay! October also marks the start of yet another high season on the island, and our team also welcomes a new chapter, as we are now your Insider’s Guide to Boracay and BEYOND.

For our month’s special feature, Boracay Sun takes you back to the days when our beloved island was just filled with small huts and coconut trees. A paradise with no tall buildings, no strobe lights and loud speakers, and all you can see are wetlands and sand.

On the lifestyle side of things, we’ve collected stories about the island including hotel and restaurant reviews, and different activities that you will surely enjoy. We’ve also compiled more features about other destinations in our country to give you an idea should you wish to visit other places for the upcoming holiday season. We also present to you our new section, Kitchen Profiles, wherein we will be featuring the people behind every sumptuous dish on the island.

As we welcome our new venture, we promise to continuously provide you, our beloved readers, fresh good articles served monthly – a la mode!

THE BORACAY SUN TEAM

boracay.sun theboracaysun theboracaysun theboracaysun

Managing Editor MICHAEL JEROME MADRIAGAGuest Editors BLANCHE BASCO & ELIZABETH JALEA

Art Director ALVA ALVAREZ

Columnists PAULINE ASTRONAUT, DANIEL LEEMON, PIA MIRAFLORES,MARLO SCHÖNENBERGER, DR. MARIA CRISTINA TEOTICO

Contributors JUNE AGUIRRE, KLAUS DORING, VERNA FAJILAN-BRAZIL,

INSP. STEPHEN JARDELEZA, JEFFREY MANCAO, ALAN C. PALMA,GIO PLAMERAN, DR. SANDRA SUZETTE QUIACHON,

ZORA TRIAS, GRAYSON GIL YAÑEZ

Publisher THE BORACAY WALLSTREET, INC.

President & CEO MA. TERESA FAJILANOperations Manager JOANN “AJ” BARRIOSKey Account Manager JOYCE ANN MOROS

Boracay Sun OfficeMonaco Crossing Tulubhan, Manoc Manoc,

Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan [email protected]

For Advertising / InquiriesTelephone: (+63 36) 288 2582Mobile: (+63 998) 558 2541Email: [email protected]

COVERBy Claude Gindrat

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Copyright © April 2014 Boracay Sun. All rights reserved. Printed in the Philippines.Except as permitted by law, no part of the Boracay Sun may be used, reproduced or

distributed in any manner whatsoever without written permission of Boracay Sun.The publisher accepts no liability for the content correctness of any advertisement andreserves the right for editorial freedom of the press under the 1987 Constitution of the

Republic of the Philippines Article III (Bill of Rights) Section 4.

Verna Fajilan-BrazilA Psychology graduate of the Ateneo de Manila University, Verna Fajilan-Brazil is currently the Director of the Edge ‘n Pointe Dance Centre in Hong Kong. She used to be a teacher and head choreographer of the Jean M. Wong School of Ballet and was in the opening cast of Lion King in Hong Kong Disneyland. Prior to her stint in Hong Kong, she was a Soloist of Ballet Philippines and the Principal of the Cultural Center of the Philippines Dance School.She is also a certified American Ballet Theatre teacher after having been trained in New York City.As an avid traveller, she has visited most of Asia, Europe and America.

Zora TriasZora is a family woman, personal assistant, writer and yogini. Grew up in Bangkok because her father ( Geologist ) was based there and graduated from a prestigious International School. She dropped out of college and worked and travelled different countries. She had fortunately connected with many amazing people, gained unique experiences and grew more connected to her intuition. She speaks fluent Tagalog, Thai and English. She is currently writing a fantasy trilogy and is determined to finish them all on her stay in Boracay.

Grayson Gil YanezHe was born and raised in Iligan City and moved to Manila to study college and Masters. He would rather be known as “(Gray)son-of-the-beach” and has spent a lot of time travelling (usually solo and on budget) around the Philippines especially islands and beaches. He used to dream of becoming a bigwig in the corporate world but this faded slowly and instead wanted a simple life on an island. He is a frequent visitor of Boracay Island and when the chance came to finally work and live here, he willingly escaped the horrible traffic and hustle and bustle of city living and now works as Marketing and PR Officer of Station 4 Beach Bar. He loves to cliff dive and his life-long dream is to be a professional diver or become a marine biologist.

Klaus DoringGerman expatriate and mediaman (radio host, regular newspaper columnist, blogger), living in the Philippines for good since 1999, professor for German language and businessman in DavaoCity.

Dr. Sandra Suzette QuiachonA God-fearing ,full time dentist by profession and a home maker who loves reading, watching movies, zumba, baking/cooking and who just recently rediscovered one of her first loves-writing.

Gio PlameranHe began “writing” through scribbles and doodles as he believes a picture is worth a thousand words. In high school, he started in campus journalism as an Editorial Cartoonist and later on became a Feature writer and the Associate Editor. Taking up Communication Arts in The University of the Philippines, he discovered a new medium for expression – dance. This led him to travel Asia and Europe as a Cultural Ambassador with the Leyte Kalipayan Dance Company. He also paints in watercolor and acrylic during his free time. When he is not partying or teaching Zumba classes in Mandala, he busies himself working for Calypso Diving Resort and Pinjalo Resort Villas as the Resort Manager.

WWW.BORACAYSUN.COM

Her journalism skills started during elementary when she wrote the school’s

editorial. Then, she came to be editor in chief for her high school and college newspapers. Campus writing never left her soul and she went on to become a school publication adviser and English teacher at Integrated Montessori Center for more than 10 years. Her career in the

academe took a backseat to focus on motherhood. She spends her free time

reading, writing and private tutoring. An indefatigable traveler, Teacher Blanche

had visited several famous travel spots in the country as well as in Asia.

Blanche Posadas-Basco

Michael is a graduate of Tourism Management from the University of the Philippines where he is also taking his post-graduate studies in Environmental Management. He is a fun-loving person and is fond of traveling... and eating. Part from being Boracay Sun’s Managing Editor, he is also the General Manager for Boracay Sun Travel

which will be launched before the year ends. Prior to working in Boracay, he

was a College Instructor and someday, he sees himself back in the academe.

Michael Jerome Madriaga

3| BORACAY SUN | | OCTOBER 2014 |

IN THE NEWS

I SLAND NEWS

F ROM THE MARSHAL'S DESK

BORACAY HOSTS APEC 2015 MEETINGS

By Jun Aguirre

The resort island of Boracay will play as one of the hosts to the Asia

Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings in 2015.

Malay Councilor, Rowen Aguirre, local focal person for the APEC 2015 event said that Boracay will host the Second Senior Officials Meeting and related meetings on May 10-21, 2015 and Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting on May 23-24, 2015. He also added that there will be around 1,900 delegates expected to attend the Second Senior Officials Meeting and 600 delegates will attend the Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting.

In preparation for the APEC meetings, the local government of Malay organized a local task group, which includes members from the Department of Tourism, Boracay Foundation Incorporated, Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, Boracay Island

Water Company, Provincial Engineers Office and Jetty Port.

Police Senior Inspector Mark Evan Salvo, Boracay Police Chief, said in a separate interview that the police security arrangements for the said events have been divided into four parts: planning, security preparations, actual implementation of peace and order, and assessment.

Meanwhile, the Aeta people, a group of ethnic tribe in this resort island, is also preparing for the forthcoming APEC 2015.

Sister Ma. Flor Almasco, a Catholic nun who currently serves as project coordinator of the Holy Rosary Parish, said that the indigenous community feels like they too could benefit from the APEC summit. She said that part of the preparation is possible livelihood opportunities among the members of the

Ati tribe during the APEC meetings. This preparation is being supported by the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP). The NCIP is currently facilitating the building of schools and other basic services centers for the Aetas.

In a related development, the APEC National Organizing Committee also plans to put up a floating hospital in this resort island.

Aside from Boracay, other regions who will play hosts for the APEC meetings in 2015 are Metro Manila representing the National Capital Region; the towns of Bagac, Bataan; and Clark, Pampanga for Central Luzon; Tagaytay City in Cavite for CALABARZON; Legazpi City, Albay in Bicol Region; Boracay, Aklan, and Iloilo City for Western Visayas; and Metropolitan Cebu in Central Visayas.

This is the first article for this column and it is just fitting to introduce

here the programs of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) of Boracay Island and the Municipality of Malay. The Boracay Island Special Fire Protection Unit (BISFPU), as the implementing arm of the BFP in the island, aims to intensify the implementation of the provisions of Republic Act 9514 or the Fire Code of the Philippines 2008 in preparation for the APEC Ministerial Meetings on 2015.

Foremost among the BFP’s program is to make sure that the pertinent provisions of the Fire Code of the Philippines is strictly followed by all buildings and structures in the island. The Fire Code of the Philippines covers “all persons; all private and public buildings, facilities or structures and their premises erected or constructed before and after the effectivity of the Code; design and installation of mechanical, electronics

and electrical systems relative to fire protection; manufacturing, storage, handling and/or use, and transportation of explosives and/or combustible, flammable liquids and gases, toxic and other hazardous materials and operations, and their wastes; fire safety planning, design, construction, repair, maintenance, rehabilitation and demolition; fire protective and warning equipment or systems; all land transportation vehicles and equipment, ships or vessels docked at piers or wharves or anchored in seaports; and, petroleum industry installations.” (Rule 2, A. – H., IRR)

Boracay Island has thousands of establishments with hundreds of hotels, resorts and residential occupancies catering to the millions of local and foreign tourists every year. At present, Boracay Island Special Fire Protection Unit (BISFPU) has only 20 personnel to implement the Fire Code and respond to fires and other emergencies.

The mandates of Fire Suppression and Fire Prevention entrusted by law to government firefighters entails 24/7 vigilance and alertness, and consistent knowledge of fire laws to ensure quality fire protection for the community.

As a premier tourist destination and economic hub, Boracay Island deserves to be serviced by competent and professional government firefighters who are able to respond effectively on fires and emergencies, work with the community, volunteers and allied agencies to create a business and tourist friendly place. The primary tool of the Fire Code to start the intensification of the Fire Code provision is the Periodic Inspection. Rule 9., Division 2., Section 9.0.2.4., paragraph C. of the Implementing Rules and Regulations provides that:

Periodic Inspection by Fire Safety Inspectors. – The City/Municipal Fire Marshal having jurisdiction shall cause the conduct of periodic fire safety inspection (underlining supplied for emphasis) of any building, structure, facility or premises for the purpose of determining compliance with the provisions of the Fire Code.

Under this authority, BISFPU has already started conducting periodic inspection focusing on hotels, resorts and other residential occupancies catering to tourists to ensure compliance of the Fire Code. And the BFP will not stop there; there are penalties and remedies available in the provisions of the Code to ensure compliance and at the same time help the business community in their compliance. This is all under the spirit of positive implementation of fire laws, which the new Head, of BISFPU has started upon assumption of duty. On the next issue, we will discuss more on the administrative procedures of Periodic Fire Safety Inspection.

TAKING THE FIRST STEPS IN PARADISEBy Insp Stephen G. Jardeleza, BFPHead, Boracay Island Special Fire Protection Unit

The writer is the newly designated Head of Boracay Island Special Fire Protection Unit and assumed duty last August 15, 2014. He was formerly the Regional Information Officer of BFP Region 6 and awarded one of the Best Performing Government Information Officer in 2013 by the Philippine Information Agency. He maintains a column in one of the weekly newspapers in Iloilo City.

IN THE NEWS4| BORACAY SUN | | OCTOBER 2014 |

The Boracay Foundation Incorporated (BFI) participated in the recently

concluded 25th Philippine Travel Mart (PTM), held at the SMX Convention Center at the Mall of Asia Complex on September 5-7, 2014.

The Philippine Travel Mart is the biggest travel expo highlighting the promotion and marketing of Philippine destinations. Local tourism offices, airlines, hotels, tour agencies, and the Department of Tourism (DOT) participated in the event - offering deals and packages that aim to boost local tourism. With the resolution of bringing in more tourists to visit our country’s vacation spots and emergent destination gems, the exhibitors were able to help strengthen the existing status of the tourism industry in the country, considered having the fastest tourism growth in Asia.

The event was on its 25th year of staging, making it the longest running travel trade exhibition in the Philippines. The PTM is organized by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), the biggest association of tour operators

and agencies which also has a nationwide membership and has been at the forefront of domestic tourism advancement, partnering with DOT, and its other regional offices.

BFI members and other Boracay establishment owners joined the Boracay Island Pavilion, with the aim of collectively marketing Boracay Island, through a stronger Boracay delegation. Boracay representatives were able to interact with prospective clients and travel partners, and even closed bookings as discounted rates and special packages from hotels and resorts were offered. The BFI also allowed Boracay establishments to send in their brochures and flyers containing tour packages, to enable them to reach out to potential customers.

The BFI would like to thank all Boracay establishments and the Local Government Unit of Malay, for their support to the Boracay delegation. They are also BFI’s partners as they continue to actively uphold the tourism industry of Boracay. BFI is confident that it would gather

more support for the 2015 Philippine Travel Mart. As BFI’s mandate includes marketing and promotion of the island, it is also confident that it would soon be able to reach out and participate in international travel shows to enable members to highlight their services and

market not only Boracay Island, but also the Municipality of Malay’s 7 wonders.

Photos of the recently concluded event have already been uploaded. Please like and share the link of the BFI Facebook Page: /BoracayFoundation

Boracay Foundation hosts the Boracay delegation at the 25th Philippine Travel MartBy Pia Miraflores

TREASURING OUR NATIONAL TREASURE: GIVING BACK TO BORACAYBy Pia Miraflores

Before Boracay was known as a paradise island, did you know that

it was first dubbed as a treasure island? This was due to the numerous treasures believed to be kept in the island- the antiques that were dug and found in different locations all over the island, and the puka shells, which brought international fame to Puka Beach.

A few years after, you can see how the island has evolved – now, it is known as a paradise island not only for Filipinos—but for international tourists who have come to visit – known for its cool, powdery, white sand, its crystal clear waters and its relaxing vibe. True to its namesake, this island which has always been a paradise for us – is now known as the crown jewel of the Philippines - the treasure of the Philippine tourism industry with 25 billion of tourism receipts gained in 2013.

In 1984 - 14,000 tourist arrivals were recorded for Boracay. 30 years after, we have recorded 1.36 million tourist arrivals for 2013. Tourism officials are also confident that we would break the 1.5 million mark for tourism arrivals in 2014. Looking back, who would have known?

Boracay is literally a treasure for the Philippines – especially to its local community, and stakeholders who have invested millions to support the growing demands of the tourism industry in the island.

In 2018, the DOT targets 2.7 million tourist arrivals for the island. This would mean more money for stakeholders, but this would simultaneously require additional infrastructure to accommodate the tourists. This would also mean additional environmental impact, which needs to be considered thoroughly.

With that in mind, stakeholders of Boracay should realize that more than anyone, they are the ones who need to protect their investments. They can only do this through the protection of the environment and through including Corporate Social Responsibility in their business plans. Boracay Foundation Chairman, Dr. Henry O. Chusuey of Henann Resorts always reiterates, “What’s good for Boracay, is good for my business.”

Indeed, CSR is no longer a novel idea amongst businesses. Currently, sustainability plays a permanent part in most business plans. CSR is echoed all throughout the BFI general membership as members and private stakeholders realize the need for them to not only work on promoting their businesses, but also simultaneously preserving the environment and sharing to the community of Boracay.

Simultaneously, we educate the youth of Boracay of our efforts so that they are aware that each of us has a stake in the island. Some people say “Sayang ang Boracay, unti-unting nasisira. Wala nang pag-asa”. Like everything in life, change

is inevitable. We cannot go back to the days when Boracay was secluded, but for as long as there are people who are willing to share their time and resources to preserve the island, and for as long as there are people who really love and care, then there is always hope for the island.

Huge businesses in Boracay allocate a generous amount of their budget to company philanthropy, mostly to environmental projects. However, it is a common misconception that only big businesses can practice CSR. We must therefore realize that community effort - no matter how small, can make a big difference.

Boracay has given all of us so much - great memories, fame for the country, and of course money in the form of livelihood to the locals and a big return for investors. It is for the same reason that the BFI believes that all the more we ought to give back.

Join the BFI and help us preserve the island we all love – Call the BFI Secretariat at (036) 288 3971 or (036) 288 6299.

A coral fragment given a new life, throughBFIs Coral REEFurbishment Project

BFI members meet every quarter to discuss community projects and concerns

Photo by Jack Jarilla

Photo by Jack Jarilla

BORACAY FOUNDATION INC. CORNER

5

T OURISM


IN THE NEWS

DOT Urges Boracay Establishments to Get AccreditedBy Jun Aguirre

AIR JUAN LAUNCHES FASTEST LINK BETWEEN BORACAY AND CORON

Boracay Island - The Department of Tourism-Western Visayas urges

all Boracay establishments to apply for accreditation.

In a press conference held last August 7, Atty. Helen Catalbas, DOT Regional Director, said that the accreditation process is to ensure that proper standards are met in line with the tourism industry.

“The accreditation process is part of our initiatives towards the ASEAN Economic Integration which visualizes a region with an equitable economic development fully integrated into the global economy,” said Catalbas.

To do this, the DOT-Western Visayas has formed a Committee at the DOT-Boracay Office to spearhead the accreditation process.

Kristoffer Leo Velete, DOT-Boracay Sub-Office Tourism Assistant, said that among those lined up for accreditation, hotels, resorts, travel agencies, and souvenir shops would be given priority.

“We urge them to try our online accreditation process and also, to get to know the incentives and benefits on being accredited,” said Velete during their recent information drive.

He added that both foreign and local tourists would be more confident in staying in any of the establishments on the Island if they are aware that such is duly accredited by the DOT.

The DOT is currently coordinating with barangay officials for the possibility of not renewing business permits of establishments who failed to undergo the accreditation process.

MANILA, September 21, 2014. Philippine aviation company AIR

JUAN launched the fastest link between two of the country’s most popular resort destinations, Boracay and Coron. Operating its brand new nine-seater Grand Caravan EX between Busuanga-Coron Airport and Godofredo Ramos International Airport in Caticlan, the airline connects tourists and businesses alike with a quick, 45-minute charter flight.

“This new Air Juan route lets you spend more of your time in your destination, and less on your journey there”, said Tina Di Cicco, the airline’s Chief Marketing Officer.

“Right now, the regular connection to these two beautiful destinations is a 12-hour ferry ride or a four-hour flight hop via Manila. With Air Juan’s new route, the travel distance between these two paradise islands is shortened to mere 45 miutes.”

Fares on this route start at P3499 one way, inclusive of 10 kilograms baggage allowance, passenger insurance and VAT. Tickets may be booked via charterer Quinon Ticketing or Air Juan’s partner

agent Calamian Islands in Coron; or any of its partner agents in Boracay.

Present during the inaugural flight ceremonies held at the Busuanga-Coron airport were Coron Mayor Clara Reyes, heads of the local government departments, airport officials and travel agents. Upon arrival at Godofredo Reyes Airport, the flight was welcomed by Mr. John T. Yap, Mayor of Aklan whose jurisdiction Boracay belongs.

The distance between Boracay and Coron is 200 kilometers and the aircraft cruises at an altitude of 8,000 to 9,000 feet, depending on weather conditions. In command of the inaugural flight were Captains Frans Leenders and Ian de los Reyes.

Boracay is the most visited place in the Philippines, next only to Manila, with 13.6 million tourist arrivals in 2013. Coron, on the hand, is the second most popular destination in Palawan with 91,580 visitors last year, and a growth rate of 25% from 2012. Tourism infrastructure in both areas is strong and developing steadily.

Air Juan currently operates a regular charter flight between Puerto Princesa and Cuyo, three times weekly; and between Puerto Princesa and Coron. It has a fleet of brand new turbo-props, business jets and helicopters, which are also available for private charters.

Air Juan is headquartered in Manila with base operations in Cebu, Puerto Princesa and Rio Tuba.

Photos by Alan Palma


THE EXPATRIATE

EXPAT FILES

EXPAT CONFIDENTIAL

Zeb “The Bandit” Kadestam fought, and beat, Josh Calvo at the

PXC Federation Welterweight World Championship a couple of months ago thus, becoming a world champion at only 23 years old. Zeb is based on Boracay. And, it is because of the fact that he’s a mellow, humble, down-to-earth guy, as opposed to some flash limelight-hogging wannabe, that more people in this island know who he is.

Born and raised in Sweden near Stockholm, Zeb began fighting at an early age, taking up Judo at the tender age of nine, before moving sideways to Muay Thai by the time he was thirteen; always having to sneak out of the house in secrecy since his mum was against it. The owner of a new gym, who happened to be an ex-pro fighter at K1, took him under his wing and showed him the ropes. But then there was a bit of lull as the fighting got put on

the back burner and teenage life took over. Persistent misdemeanors saw him falling foul of the law and ended up at a juvenile detention center. It was there, curiously, where things started taking off again. The center had a program where the kids trained twice a day with a former pro fighter, and it was there that Zeb was introduced to the full spectrum of fighting.

“Before then, I just knew about Muay Thai, standing up, I didn’t know about the other part of fighting, the bit that happens on the ground. I just got hooked, started following MMA, and decided I wanted to stop all the bullshit. I thought I may as well fight people for money”, he explains.

With good behavior and an obvious aptitude in all the disciplines, Zeb was rewarded with a three month sojourn to Thailand to train and fight for

Legacy Gym. After training for only 1 ½ months, he had his first Muay Thai fight, knocking out his opponent in the first round. He returned to Sweden a determined man. He went back to studying in order to be eligible for a government grant so he could continue to train. Everything was going well until the inevitable happened; as attendance in the gym went up, attendance in class went down. Another three months in training camp in Thailand resulted in forgoing his studies altogether. He did get another fight under his belt though, this time in the more prestigious MMA, knocking out his opponent in the first ten seconds with his first punch.

“The thing is though, I kind of forgot to go to school, so I kind of got kicked out,” he explains sheepishly.

This meant joining the real world, which can only mean one thing: debt. He owed money for rent and university and he had none to speak of. He made a decision. He sold up everything he had, bought a last minute flight and moved to Thailand. He became part of the Legacy Gym, fighting at least once a month as part of their roster. He went on to gain a 7-3 record in Muay Thai, and a 6-1 record in MMA.

Two years ago, Legacy Gym opened up its Boracay ‘branch’ and the whole

team moved en masse, including Zeb, who now spends most of the year here, returning to Thailand for a couple of months every so often and indulging in his first love.

“I box, I wrestle, I do everything, but Muay Thai, that’s what I do for fun. There’s more money in MMA, and I enjoy it, but Muay Thai is what I like the most,” he says.

Living in the gym means that he’s never completely on holiday, helping to coach the other fighters, and still training twice a day even when there’s no fight on the horizon. “I train still, but I’m relaxed, I have fun, I don’t watch my diet as much. When there’s fight coming up, things get more serious and training becomes harder.”

At the moment, Zeb awaits to find out who his first title defense will be up against, as he tries to erase the memories of his one and only loss (on points), which still rankles, and looks to build up another winning streak and make the UFC matchmakers sit up and take notice.

For now, he’s ours, he’s our World Champion.

OUR CHAMPIONBy Daniel Leemon

SILVER SERVICE EXPECTATIONS By Daniel Leemon

There’s something hypnotic about watching the locals at work in the service industry – that slow languid movement, the lack of urgency, service with no

rush, appearing to exist in a time zone that is entirely their own.

This has always been part of the charm, life in the slower lane. It’s at the core of what we all fell in love with, in the first place. The relaxed way of doing things seeps in by way of osmosis, before you know it, you also move with less haste, and it’s part of the reason why more and more people visit Boracay. But this plethora of new tourists could have a negative impact unless they learn to accept some things.

Boracay has undergone the same transformation that every paradise isle goes through – first the hippies and the surfers discover it and make it their own, with not too many comforts but everything they could ever want, then the backpackers pick up on the scent and hit the trail, then tourists hear about it and hotels get built. After a while, if that place has that ‘magic’, and Boracay certainly has, the tide of tourism becomes irreversible as more hotels are erected, some of the tourists morph into rich residents, and the standard of, well, everything, goes up. More money raises expectations. When someone spends big money for their luxurious surroundings, they expect immaculate service and exceptional customer care.

How will all this affect the laid-back Filipinos? This obsession with speed and punctuality isn’t part of their culture. Impatience isn’t in their make-up so they find it hard to empathise with our expectations. And why should they? Their relaxed approach to life, which is something to be treasured, could be under threat under the prevalent critique of the wealthy holiday-maker. I’ve seen a lot of tourist ‘tutting’ at bars and restaurants, people indignantly huffing and raising their eyebrows, ‘politely’ indicating that they’ve been waiting for far too long, as well as bar owners shouting at staff for neglecting an order. But, like someone recently told me, “The Filipinos have the best service in the world, IF you can get their attention!”

We’ve all been there – staff gliding past you, seemingly oblivious to your needs, or leaning on the far end of the bar gazing into space while you frantically wave your arms about trying to get their attention. It can be annoying, but it’s not life threatening. Waiting a few extra moments won’t kill you. It won’t lead to starvation and it won’t sober you up. And, let’s face it, once they deal with you, they’re effusively polite and super friendly.

And why should we accept it? The answer is simple – everything is everything. It’s all related and it’s all part of the same entity. It’s just the other side of the same coin. The same characteristic that shaped this island, welcomed us in, and charmed us. And here’s the point- if they weren’t like this, the Philippines wouldn’t be the Philippines. The same trait, which is part of the magic, also manifests itself with a ‘relaxed’ approach to service. It manifests itself with beaming wide smiles and that genuine warmth and friendliness.

The more we tut and complain, the more likely we are to ruin what is quintessentially the Filipino spirit, and a huge part of their culture. Then this island would end up as just another resort. And none of us want that.


K USINA AFFAIRSE XPAT EXPLORERTHE EXPATRIATE

We set off early, as the sun was rising and all was good in the

world, sauntering along for half an hour through effervescent green rice fields and beautiful pineapple orchards, before picking up the track and leaving the last of civilization behind. A continuous steep climb gives you the ultimate jungle book feeling, though with not much to look at, and for a great part of it, I only saw the backpack of my guide, or else I was in a green tunnel of plants looking down for a good spot to place my feet. After a while, the path cleared and we got the first panoramic views of the town of Magdiwang below and the enticing sea beyond, both breathtaking and re-energizing at the same time. And you need that boost since, even to just reach Mayo’s Peak, you have to be fit and strong, a hard slog, definitely challenging but every bit of it absolutely worth the effort.

The diversity of the fauna is incredible; various shades of green and rainbow-colored plants everywhere you look, and all interspersed with each other in a mad horticultural confusion. The steepness of the climb means a different

type of surrounding every hour, keeping you alert and interested. I asked about wild animals as I sense that we are a long way from help but I’m assured that there are none. No dangerous ones anyway. My biggest enemy becomes razor-sharp plants with fish hooks that grab your backpack with a firm grip, turning the hike into a bit of a fight.

The backpack becomes a nuisance but somehow I don’t mind as there’s something pure about carrying everything you need on your back, something ‘pioneer’ about it. This also means that the last part of the climb, after Bulod’s Spring, where you fill up your (inevitably) empty water bottles to the camp, is the heaviest. The tough trek and hardship turns into euphoria once you’ve reached Mayo’s Peak and you

After traipsing around the island and visiting the numerous rivers and waterfalls dotted around, it was time to take on the beast. Mount Guiting Guiting literally means ‘Saw-Toothed Mountain’, and, rest assured, you’ll have to grit your teeth if you want to reach the summit, standing at a nose-bleeding 2058 meters.

SIBUYAN - Mt Guiting GuitingBy Daniel Leemon

take in the views, watching the clouds swirl by beneath you. You become exhausted but satisfied with that primal feeling of achievement. Soon after that moment of pure delight it’s time to get back to basic human needs and take care of food and shelter before the sun goes down. I wearily set up my tent.

After a day dripping in sweat it’s hard to imagine shivering at night. Yet, that’s exactly what happens as the temperature drops and coldness seeps into the bones. I see my guide smile at my lack of warm clothing. I tried to get some much needed sleep, my chattering teeth and the footsteps of a wild cat (as my guide explained in the morning) prowling around outside as my backing soundtrack.

The next morning, we had a delicious breakfast gazing at the sunrise, and then we head for the summit. However, this is really only feasible with suitable equipment and climbing boots. After one hour, I look at mine and decided that it was too dangerous. My guide assured me that we’ve already seen the best views, and I figured I’ve pushed myself enough to be able to walk back with my head held high anyway.

The hike down is heavier than I expected, probably because of the exhausting climb the day before and the early morning trial at the summit. The muscle pains kept me walking like an old man for a couple of days, the memories of the stunning views will keep me going ‘til the retirement home.


7107 ISLANDS

Our trip to Puerto Galera was unplanned. The whole family was

to attend a wedding in the adjacent town of San Teodoro and since we were just a few kilometers away, we decided to spend a couple of days in Puerto Galera as well. Being unplanned, I never got to research about the place. Although I heard some tidbits and anecdotes from friends many years ago, I just decided to let things be and enjoy things as they came by.

The drive to Puerto Galera was just like any other provincial drive passing through small communities amidst vast land. I always heard my sister say, “Parang nasa Romblon tayo.” or “Uy, katulad lang ito doon sa pinuntahan natin dati.” Yes, it was typical. However, once we were nearing Puerto Galera itself, we started to see hints of a change of scene. A mountainous drive up, a little sea and sand on the right, until finally, we were greeted by a marvelous view of the sea from the zig-zag road we were traversing. Overlooking the peaceful body of water, surrounded by luscious green trees and with a cool breeze tingling everybody’s ears, we were once again awed by the captivating beauty of nature. Silence suddenly overtook the used-to-be-chatter-full van. Everyone was just in awe, holding his or her breath, taking the splendor in.

Upon entering Puerto Galera, the Tamaraw Water Falls, one of the famous spots that shouldn’t be missed, greeted us. Looking up to the mountain where the water starts its vertical drop, I told myself that it just looks like those little falls that we take caution of on a drive up Kennon Road to Baguio or Halsema in Benguet during rainy days. However, when I looked down, under the bridge where we were, the beauty of the falls came to life. It was a series of pools of water nestled on top of a series of steps. Imagine rice terraces with a pool on each step, with water seamlessly flowing through. To add to the treat, people were allowed to dip into these pool terraces.

As soon as we got to the town proper of Puerto Galera, we checked into the Hollywood Palm Beach Hotel. Just a few meters away from the main road and a few minutes walk to the famous White Beach, it was a very convenient place to be in. The owner, Mr. Efren Evangelista, and his staff welcomed us. The hotel lobby was homey and cozy while the rooms were spacious and well-kept. It was a good place for people like us who just wanted a quiet and relaxing weekend. They also had a wide range of facilities and services that may be of use. Since it wasn’t peak season, they only had a handful of staff, some of whom were very helpful while some were a bit on the slacking side. But, Mr. Evangelista’s demeanor and hospitality shone most brightly.He was indeed very welcoming and accommodating. He, more than once, volunteered to go out of his way to help my family in different instances.For that, we will always be grateful.

Puerto Galera’s White Beach was indeed the first thing to do on the list. Being just a few minutes walk away, it was very easy to find. There were signages around but if you still want to ask for directions, the locals will cheerfully help you out. I’m not sure if there was a better way to the beach, but we went through alleys. Once we got to the beach, we were instantly greeted by a fly board demo, to the delight of the families who were there. Children and parents alike were enjoying the sight of a man being propelled by water underneath his “shoes” --- banking, soaring, diving and climbing just like the real Iron Man does in the movies.Just a few meters away, a group of people was getting ready to parasail.Although I didn’t get to see anyone go up and parasail (probably they were just warming up) nor was the plan of parasailing myself actualized, the site of the colorful balloon added flavor into the tropical site of Puerto Galera.Then there were beach volleyball nets, banana boats, jet skis, and other water sports around. These, coupled with souvenir stores and restaurants lined up on the strip, will keep you busy all day. At night, the beachfront comes alive with

performances in music and dance, coupled with fun entertainment. Just a little footnote --- don’t be deceived by the name of the beach. The sand was not powder white as the name suggested. I’d say it was more on the beige side. Nevertheless, the sand was finer as compared to resorts in nearby Batangas.

A few minutes drive away was another beach called Sabang. My dad said it was a famous tourist spot and since none of us had been there, we decided to pay the place a visit. The ride to Sabang was another sight to see. Since the road was sloping up and down, and around the mountains, the view overlooking the sea was, once again, captivating. We were like going deeper into a remote, forest like area as we travelled. Little did we know that at the end of the journey, a little busy town was in store for us. Once we got to Sabang, there were so many tourists walking around and the locals seemed to be teeming with more business. It felt like Puerto Galera’s version of Boracay’s Station 2.I figured that maybe when we got to the beachfront, it would be much more beautiful than the White Beach. Maybe the sand was finer and the beachfront, longer and wider. I was wrong. Sabang Beach is actually like a port where the scuba divers start off with their exploration. One will see a number of boats either anchored away or being propelled into the sea. The coastline was filled with scuba diving shops that cater for every level, beginners or pros alike. There were also a number of hotels, guesthouses, and inns for those scuba divers who wanted to go straight to their hotel rooms, after coming out fresh from the water.

Scuba Diving is one of the most revered activities in Puerto Galera. Gifted with so many prime dive sites, there is indeed a lot to see here. For decades, many have come to visit this place for its eco-structure of microorganisms, marine life, animals and plants. No wonder the place was brimming with people from all walks of life. Everyone was attracted to the great ecological complexity and the abundant species found in Puerto Galera. It is home to over 3000 species of marine life and around 60% of fish species. Maybe this is the reason why Puerto Galera has a reputation to be the best dive area in the Philippines and maybe in Asia. If you’d rather spend your time above the water, you can experience other sports like sailing and wind surfing. You can also have the option of kayaking around Puerto Galera or through the Tukuran River.

Water sports are not the only activities that are available in Puerto Galera. One can be thrilled with a zip-line experience of a 610m cable that traversed well above the thickly covered mountains below. Once you get off, you also have to go through a little suspension bridge to wrap up the adrenaline rush of the ride. Want to get dirty and rough? They have ATV rides available for you too.Golfers will also be in for a delight as the 9-hole Ponderosa Golf Course offers a breathtaking view of Mount Malasimbo. For those who want a more unique, tribal experience or who want to go back to the roots of Philippine culture, hiking up the mountain to visit the Mangyan Village will truly be enriching. The Mangyan tribe is part of the indigenous people of the Philippines. In fact, there are some Mangyans who live reclusively with little, if any, outside world contact. It will truly be an awesome experience to see how they live and go back to the ways of living where technology doesn’t wrap people around its fingers. It’s a pity that we weren’t able to go and visit the village. Well, I guess that calls for another trip to Mindoro in the future.

Puerto Galera is also home to a number of merriment like the Malasimbo Festival and the Kulinarya at Saya Festival. If you will plan to go and visit Puerto Galera, you may want to schedule it around these festivals. What’s also nice is the fact that since it is very close to Manila, it is very accessible to everyone. If you find yourself on a day trip to the resorts of Batangas, you might want to just spend another 45-minute boat ride to Puerto Galera where it’ll take you to tropical hideaway you’d definitely enjoy. It’ll surely take your adventure to a different level.

A Side Trip to Puerto GaleraBy Verna Fajilan-Brazil


7107 ISLANDS

Falling Under A Spell in Siquijor IslandBy Grayson Yanez

It was early morning at Dumaguete port. I was with my mom. But we were not headed to the same destination. She was bound for Iligan City to finally go

home after we spent Holy Week at my sister-in-law’s family in Negros. I, on the other hand, was on the way to the Island of Fire, Siquijor. The night before, I was already taking down notes of what to see, where to stay, what to ride, etc. I had to be efficient with my trip because I could only spend a day in the island; I had to go to Cebu the next day for a flight back to Manila. On that same night, I caught myself in a little debate with her and my brother. They did not want me to push through with my solo trip to the island. If you’re familiar of the place, I’m sure you know why. Why would a doting mother, who would give up her life for her children, allow her son, to go somewhere “risky” and “scary”? For the longest time, stories of witchcraft, kulam (hex or curse), and other mysteries are usually associated with Siquijor. This was also the picture that most people have embedded in my mind about the island ever since I was a kid. Growing up though, especially when my passion for the beach, marine life, and travelling grew much stronger, I started my research about the island. To my surprise, pristine beaches, palm-fringed roads, charming waterfalls, and an unassuming serenity were all I saw and read. That was when I made it part of my “To-go List” - something that no one, at that time, really understood given their preconceptions of the -island, my mother and brother included. When a friend knew about my trip, his advise was to “touch back of the person who touches you so the spell won’t take effect.”

My mother’s boat left first and although she was not still too keen about my trip, we hugged and she told me to take extra care. I hopped on a small boat. I could not help but gaze at one of the clearest and cleanest waters I have ever seen --- and that view started right at the port! After an hour or so of that shaky boat ride, almost 20 men, clearly motorcycle drivers, swarmed in no time offering island tour packages, which I found too expensive, and their trooping too intrusive and annoying. I almost did not have a choice but to ride with one of them, a ride that would have cost me around 300 pesos, to a beach house several blogs have suggested for visitors to stay . Not too far from the port I found a small jeepney. I asked the driver if he knew the beach resort, he said yes, and off I went with just paying 20 pesos.

There was almost no one on the highway. The streets on the way to beach house were palm-fringed, like I saw in photos. The driver stopped by a small two-storey, bright-yellow colored house by the beach. The beach house looked similar to the pictures I’ve seen online so I went down. Indeed, I was at Lorna’s End of the World Resort. Yes, that’s the name of the beach house. That was the biggest reason why I particularly chose to spend my day in the island there. It was Ate Lorna herself who welcomed me. Like a little kid, I ran straight to the beach, it was immaculately white and sparkling. The waters were as clear as the one by the port and I could already see a school of fish swimming near the shore. That day, I felt, it was just me lying on the hammock by the cerulean waters, with the soothing smell of hard coconut being burned by an old lady next to the beach house. If this was the spell and charm they were telling me about, this was far from scary.

I asked Ate Lorna how much she would charge me for using the hammock in one of the huts and for the snorkeling gear I was about to borrow. She vehemently answered, “None. You are welcome, the place is all yours to enjoy.” What witchcraft? What creepy people? That was moment of kindness part 1. I was asking her if I could go to the more popular beach given my limited time when her husband, a tall American guy, suddenly popped out and insisted I use their little boat and check out the marine life right at their beach instead. And there I was, rowing the boat, which bore the name End of the World. When I was already meters away and couldn’t see Ate Lorna and her husband clearly anymore, I decided to anchor, and jump

into the cold waters. It felt awesome! Again, it was a beautiful moment of silence, hearing only the fast beating of my heart, which defines fear of being far away from the shore and happiness of being in the silent waters.

After my swim, Ate Lorna said I could find a cold spring a few meters away. I finally reached that spring but it was already rather developed into a

park where most of the locals stay to eat, chill, and play the guitar with friends during the lazy hours of the afternoon. I am not

a fan of “developed” natural spots so I decided to climb a flight of stairs leading to I don’t know where. I saw a small church at top and decided to pay a visit, thanked Him for the safety and beauty I’ve been feeling and seeing since I set foot on the island. I then asked around about my way going back to the port. It was getting late and I had to catch the last ferry back to Dumaguete. I approached an old man sitting quietly on his motorcycle munching on a piece of bread. The old man readily provided directions. I thanked him and slowly walked away. He called me back, Dong! (a common term for boy in the Visayas and Mindanao regions). “Kaon diay ta. Pasensya na wala

tika naagda ganina.” (Here, let’s eat. I’m sorry I didn’t offer you a while ago.) He knew I know how to speak

the vernacular from our prior conversation. My heart was trembling and I feel my tears just waiting to jump out of

my eyes - moment of kindness part 2.

I guess they were right about Siquijor - strange and mystifying. It was hard to leave the island not just because of its charming natural wonders

but because every single part of the trip was a moment to solve a mystery I grew up into. And, I am nothing but thankful to have been given that chance and privilege because finally, I can prove them wrong. Siquijor Island - the beach, the serenity, Ate Lorna and the motorcycle driver were all like ingredients of a potion that put me under a spell, but the kind that enchanted me to sheer beauty and pure kindness.


7107 ISLANDS

Our family’s tradition for many years now has always been going on a

road trip every Holy Week, because it is the only time where we can bond together and not have to worry about work. One of the places we went to was in Dahilayan Forest Park in Manolo Fortich and so we drove the 293-kilometer road from Davao City to Bukidnon to check the place out. It was roughly less than five hours by car if you travel non-stop. If you see acres and acres of pineapple fields, it would mean that you’re near your destination.

Upon arrival we marveled at the City’s much cooler breeze and breath-taking views only to realize that the resort was jampacked with visitors who had the same idea. It was a good thing though, that we already had a reservation.

Built in 2010, Dahilayan Forest Park boasts of three floors with 18 rooms including non-smoking rooms at very affordable rates. The car park, amply situated at the hotel’s entrance for guests with private vehicles is spacious enough for all the visitors.

Upon check in, we were ushered into a family room which had double deck beds, more than enough for our entourage of fifteen persons. It had two showers and two toilets. The room also had a terrace which opened into a pond complete with Carps which the kids had a blast feeding them.

We found the place family-friendly because first it was safe and second it had a wide playground and an even wider picnic ground. The children including the adults happily raided its expanse complete with picture taking on its very huge picture frame which included an Indian chieftain and a wild boar. There were also many life-like animal models so much so that our youngest wouldn’t come near the enormous snakes or the humongous crocodiles with fangs exposed, however interesting it might have looked in Instagram.

Their coffee shop and Forest Cafe Restaurant offered a wide variety of culinary delights but because they were fully booked, we had to wait for a while for the food to be served.

There are many activities that guests could choose from. Adventure and thrill seekers could enjoy the Bungee Bounce, the Zorbit, tree top adventure or the luge ride. The Bungee Bounce makes you jump up and down on a giant trampoline. The Zorbit is a plastic ball which is rolled down with the passenger strapped inside. The tree Top adventure involved lots of climbing and balancing around ropes and rope trails. The luge is a small sled that is ridden in a supine position while sliding downhill.

Since we had children in tow we opted for the safer options. One of our kids adored horses so horseback riding - Check! Then we decided to

rent All Terrain Vehicles to explore the 3.5 kilometer forest trail and it was fun! (Unfortunately, my mom was my passenger so all throughout the entire ride she told me to slow down.)

Evenings were much even cooler so we didn’t need any air conditioning.The moon and the stars were a sight to behold. And because we were elevated, it was as if you could reach out and

touch them. Star gazing is definitely a must here.

The amenities were clean and comfortable enough ensuring every guest a good night’s sleep.

Over all, it was worth the hassle and the long ride. But hey don’t take my word for it, check it out yourself.

Dahilayan : An Ultimate Family PlaygroundBy Dr. Sandra Suzette Quiachon


7107 ISLANDS

Daybreak. Dawn. Early morning air. Arduous but I try to keep my eyes open so as not to miss this spectacle again: an unforgettable sunrise painting the

environs with all the colors that nature puts at our disposal. I’ve put in a large portion of my life just trying to make things easier for my loved ones and myself. I feel like I have all the time of my life in my hands.

I pray to God for a place to settle down, where I can relax, take things easy and where I can spend the second half of my life. I wrote that prayer many years ago. Meanwhile, in a place I am in now, people call me already “Foreigneroy” or “Foreignoy”. I am enjoying the natural beauty that abounds especially in this part of the world. I’ve made many good friends here and learned from them about diverse ethnic cultures and their very special way to live life amid struggles and trials.

But what does really count in life? Hope? Faith? Charity? In my life now, I learned that I could fulfill all kinds of lifestyles I have always dreamed of. A “Troides magellanes,” a very beautiful butterfly, tries to play with me for several minutes while writing this piece. Some time ago, I saw the colorful sails under tropical sun surface on the horizon - the sea gypsies from Zamboanga, the Badjaos and their boats, their vintas, which are the “caravans of the ocean”. The sails are so colorful and visible that the boats never lose their mutual contact even while a heavy storm tries to part them.

Sand beaches, crystal clear water, a complete undisturbed atmosphere - not all over Mindanao, but mostly. This part of the Southern Philippines is the melting pot of Christians and Moslems, foreigners and tribes such as Badjaos, Subanon, Tansug, and Yakan.

Yes, sometimes negative things happen here. No need to give you the details. Everybody knows what I am talking about. But, I ignore the unstable, unrestrained, and unfounded inaccuracies and inexactitudes published and broadcasted worldwide about Mindanao without having lived with or observed the natives up close.

Have you ever experienced the incredible view from top of the grandfather of all Philippine mountains, the Mount Apo, the highest point nationwide? Of course, one must be very lucky to see this wonderful and unforgettable spectacle.

My Mindanao? Yes, since more than 15 years for sure: MY Mindanao. I am a foreigner who lost his heart to and in Mindanao. I clasped Mindanao to my bosom. I recommend Mindanao warmly to everybody. Mindanao, the land of hope and promise. Mindanao, I love you. From the bottom of my heart.

MY MINDANAOBy Klaus Doring

By Theresa Fajilan

Life has been very good to me, no matter where I am or how I look at it. It is always an inspiration because I choose to see the good side and the positive effect it gives. With this in mind, I have decided to write a column to share the wonderful things that inspired me. And because I am a sucker for anything Stitch (the Disney character), the title of my column is pretty much named after it.-- Ohana

Everything happens for a reason, and the reason is always for the good.

Everybody was born naked. This is one concrete example that we are all equal.

People have their own KARMA. The way people treat you is their KARMA. So, do good and be positive because that is

the way you want life to be.

Even if people treat you badly, never allow yourself to stoop down to their level. Just smile and walk away because you know you are far better. Be thankful and grateful for what

you have!

Life is too short, so live as if it is your last day. Count your blessings as you wake up in the morning. Be thankful for

the free air, free sunshine, free rain and all of the free things that the world offers. You are special because you are blessed

with all of the special things in life.

In this issue, let me tell you of the things we have toremember whenever we encounter

a “sticky” situation:


LIFE & LEISURE

PET CORNER 101

Having a dog is like marriage wherein you are physically, financially and emotionally engaged for 12-15 years or

more. As a dog parent and devoted breeder for almost 6 years, I am excited to share my thoughts and experiences on efficient dog parenting and care.

Ticks and fleas are deadly especially if we ignore them. Based on experience, dogs can be anemic due to blood-sucking pests such as fleas.

Here are some pointers on how to be a responsible dog parent:

Clean your area

• Ourgoalistocleantheareafirstfortobeaveryefficientdogowner.Whether your dog sleeps inside or outside of the house, ticks & fleas migrate everywhere. It would be best to clean and sanitize the area regularly or invite a licensed pest control to help you.

Proper hygiene & grooming

• Useshampoosorsoapsthataremadetocontrolandpreventticks&fleasrecommended by a trusted veterinarian.

• Forhairy/longhaireddogs,ifinfested,besttokeepthefurshortwhilemedication is being applied.

• Removingticks&fleasisaprocess,besttocallanexpertifthereisalready an infestation.

Apply tick & flea solutions

• Therearegoodtopicalsolutionsthatyoucanapplyonyourdog–spoton or spray. Moreover, it is always best to visit a dog clinic to assist you with this, especially for new dog parents.

• Tickcollarisanalternativesolutionaswell.

For queries and tips, please follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GibsPetMart

Ticks & FleasBy Jeff Mancao


LIFE & LEISURE

L EISURE GUIDE

Sivananda (Shaun Jason Hannocks) has taught over 5000 public hours

of Hatha Yoga and has moved with his son, Arjuna, and fiancé, Zora, to Boracay Island, Philippines. Sivananda is a given name from his master as a tool for teaching the bliss that unfolds through the practice. Earth Yoga is a mix of traditional yet contemporary Hatha Yoga, which is 70% weighted to exercising in a warm or heated environment and, 30% weighted to a spiritually focused practice for a more spiritually determined practitioner. The names and the percentages are simply that, just names All life is regarded as spiritual, there is no separation with earth yoga, simply experience.

Take a look at your self, a good long look, perhaps, in the mirror or reflect through the eyes of those around you. Or better yet, have a look at the environment you live in. One can easily see a lot of improvement on the Island with regards to a higher quality of living. In Earth Yoga, we teach that development starts with the individual. It is you who can help others by simply helping yourself first. Getting simple strength through basic movement of the larger muscle group makes the Earth Sequence accessible to everyone. Earth extends its teachings within the 5 elements of nature namely, earth, water, fire, air and space, to cover a broad

spectrum of teachings that helps one go deeper into the dimensions of one’s self.

So let’s take a journey into ourselves, through own own body, our own experience. By stepping into the current and simply flowing into a potential, driven by the sacred geometry yoga asana offers, we become STRONG, VIBRANT, CLEAR and very EMOTIONALLY charged, exceeding all expectations of ourselves. This power allows us to be the director of our destiny or rather fuels the title “Going with the Flow” while manifesting our dreams.

The asana practice is one part. The initiation into the surat shabd yoga allows one’s self the opportunity to transcend all karmic relations within the earthly realm of existence and experience the ultimate FREEDOM. Ask yourself how you feel reading this, tap into your intuition and let’s share everything we have to make Earth a greater place, starting with YOU!

Sivananda runs teacher trainings and retreats and is holding his first one in the Philippines on November 8, 2014. This training is open to individuals who simply just want to practice and get really strong or those who want to teach a solid set sequence in a warm environment. There is more information about this event at the Mandala Spa and Villa Resort.

Earth Yoga Inhabits BoracayBy Zora Trias


PEOPLE

K ITCHEN PROFILES

It is not common that we see a pureblooded Filipino Executive Chef

in our country. One of the chosen few is Albert Sia, commonly known as Chef Al. He gained his knowledge from working in different countries, and even worked as a culinary instructor in different universities in Metro Manila. Chef Al has been in the industry for more than ten years before he finally decided to settle here in the Philippines, and actually work with Red Coconut, Boracay. In this interview, we will get to know more about him, his favorites, and his plans for the future.

Q: How long have you been here in Boracay?CA: I joined Red Coconut last February 18, ‘been staying in Boracay for seven months now. I came from Australia, I was originally based there. It just so happened that there is an opportunity here, and it was a good choice.

Q: What made you stay here on the island?CA: Two factors. (First) It’s about time for me to be with my family. (Second) I’ve decided not to stay in Manila, not because of the competition, but because of traffic. Nakaka-stress lalo. Working (as a chef) is already stressful and then you add the traffic, hindi na tama.

Q: When did you realize that you wanted to become a chef?CA: I did not plan to become a chef. I planned to be a marine. Unfortunately, as what the elders say, I have the (cooking) talent. I started cooking at the age of 9, guided by my parents. When I was around 14 years old, I learned how to cook on my own.

Q: Who’s your inspiration when it comes to cooking?CA: I just followed the steps of my lolas.

Q: What’s your favorite dish from your lola?CA: Empanadang Vigan. I’m part Ilocano and part Ibanag. I really love our comfort dishes, like dinakdakan, which aren’t that visible in most Filipino restaurants.

Q: Any plans of including Ilocano dishes to your menu?CA: Yes, we already have pinakbet with bagnet. There are many who can cook this dish, but it’s really different when there’s a native touch.

Q: How is Chef Al inside and outside the kitchen?CA: Inside and out, halos iisa lang eh. Independent inside (the kitchen), I’m well disciplined. I tell my people to stay focused all the time. I always aim to have a better career, so I focused on it. Outside, I’m a family man. I make it a point to do my role as a father whenever I’m home.

Q: Do you have any other activities on the island?CA: Right now, wala eh. I just wanted to take a break and relax. For me, Boracay is so small. I went to different countries, and Boracay is really one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. I just noticed that, in the past few months, it has been crowded so I find it hard to swim as often as I want.

Chef Al treasures his free time a lot and he usually takes a walk in the beachfront and he goes to Island’s local bars to drink by himself.

CA: The problem with us Filipinos is we tend to talk about business outside work. I drink alone to avoid that.

Q: What countries have you visited or worked at?CA: Qatar, Singapore, well, I worked in a cruise ship so I’ve been to a lot. The last country I’ve worked at was Australia.

Q: If you were to choose on which country to work at , what would it be?CA: Pilipinas pa rin. Comfort zone -- you can communicate to your co-workers better. I had offers in Manila, I told myself, I’d rather go back to Australia. Then, all of a sudden, Red Coconut called me. Working in a province in the Philippines is, I think, better.

Q: What is your happiest moment as a chef?CA: This is it. I am working with this bunch of Filipinos and I’m trying to understand them deeply and embrace them well.

Q: How about the worst?CA: Worst is when we’re inside the kitchen, and hindi lumalabas yung pagkain ng tama. You’d actually see a chef bursting with anger.

If there is something Chef Al wouldn’t forge was when a French chef told him that what he was doing is wrong.

CA: I was the one who got blamed because of the mistakes done by our head cook before. At the end of the day, when he knew what really happened, I was even promoted. ‘Di ba, from negative to positive.

Q: Any plans for the future?CA: My plan is to give up this industry. This will be my last. I would like to go back in the academe. Because whatever happens, like you cut hands or meet an accident, your brain is still working and your heart is still pumping. You can still share your experiences and what you’ve learned.

Q: Would you want your children to follow your footsteps? CA: No. I told my children, impress your friends with your talents in cooking but don’t follow my steps. It’s hard, and you’ll be away from your family.

Q: Is there anything that you don’t eat?CA: Wala. I eat anything. Someone once told me that I wouldn’t die trying and there’s nothing wrong with it. Before, I really don’t want to eat Greek food. Every time I visit a new country I always make it a point that I try their cuisine.

Q: Aside from Filipino cuisine, what is your favorite?CA: Italian. I spent almost 9 years with

Italian chefs. No particular dish, from appetizer to dessert, I like them. By eating their food, you can learn a lot about their culture.

Q: Is there something you can’t give up eating?

CA: Honestly, tinapay. I easily get

full with bread, unlike with rice. I believe that

bread is better for active people like chefs.

Q: Do you have any advice for those aspiring to become chefs?CA: Attitude is number one. Skill can be developed but character can’t.

Q: If you were a dish, what would it be and why?CA: Adobo. It’s a combination of both sour and salty, and a bit sweet. A little bit sweet, because that’s who I am, I am not showy (to my wife). The taste of salt represents my passion for what I am doing. The sour taste must also be there, because if I do not control my emotions, I will fail – you have to be firm, but not strict.

“If you’re in doubt, throw it.” – Chef Al

Chef Al of Red CoconutBy Michael Madriaga

Chef Al is very accommodating and fun to be with. We spent almost three hours together talking about his plans from improving Red Coconut’s Menu, his passion and dreams for the restaurant and of his own. To know more about him, follow him on Instagram (@chefsiaonelove).


PEOPLE

CHEF Luigi Amodio, or Chef Gino as what most people call him, is one of

the first to introduce pizza in Boracay. He is currently the Executive Chef for Aria Cucina Italiana restaurant. Living on the island for almost 30 years now, Chef Gino never stops in creating Italian specialties for both tourists and locals. Growing up in a family that is always exposed to hospitality, it has always been a pleasure for him to serve good food to different kind of people. The person behind Aria’s delicious treats shares with us his food journey and favorite eats in this interview.

Q: When did you realize that you wanted to become a chef?CG: When I was small, because I live in a family used to a lot of hospitality. My father was a governor in Italy, so my mother has to cook a lot for parties. Giving good food is our pleasure.

Q: So your inspiration for cooking is your mom? What’s your favorite dish from her?CG: Pastilla de Grano. (It’s) made of wheat and orange flowers. And we have it now as Aria’s Monthly Special. I think we’re the only one in the Philippines who makes this dessert among the Italian restaurants. People appreciate it a lot -- they love it!

He added that most of his dishes are classic Southern Italian cuisine.

CG: The food we serve here is mostly summer food (we call it summer food in Italy). We can do fusion (or) food with less calories. People want to be in good shape here in Boracay. Food can be high quality, low-calorie, and organic. We have our own organic farm here in Yapak, where we grow our own vegetables for our salads and other

dishes. They are picked fresh and can be served with only extra virgin olive oil. If you want a good meal, you must let us choose our ingredients. We don’t like to save the ingredients (just) to make more money.

Q: How long have you been here in Boracay and in Aria?CG: I’ve been here in Boracay for 30 years now. The first time I came here was in 1984, and in 1985 I opened my small restaurant called Beach Snack Bar. It was in Angol where sundown is right now. Next, I put up the Pizza Connection, where I started to make my own pizza. I think I was the first one to make pizza in Boracay. There was no electricity during that time and I have to prepare my own ingredients from scratch. I have to create my own ingredients.

We opened Aria in 2003. I came in as an Industrial partner with Paolo Occhionero and Juan Elizalde. Last year, we won the Best Italian Restaurant Award in the Philippines.

Q: Having been here for 30 years, do you know how to speak Tagalog?CG: Hindi lahat, pero okay lang. Naiintindihan ko, hindi pwede manloloko sa’kin. [he laughs]

Learning Filipino helped Chef Gino have a good relationship with his staff.

CG: Some of them are with me for 15 years, some were even hired from my other restaurants before.

Q: What is your happiest moment as a chef? CG: My happiest moment is when customers go to me and tell me, “Do me

what you want, cook me what you want.” My worst moment is when a customer comes and tells me, “Can I have this recipe, add this and that, without this, without that.” I have my own recipe. I expect people to come here to taste my food whether they like it or not. I feel like the Ambassador of Italian Cuisine, so I have to give the real thing. I try to keep the dishes original so people can try original Italian.

Q: What’s the difference between Chef Gino inside and outside the kitchen?CG: Well, outside I’m a sportsman, I love mountain biking. I am a runner, swimmer, and I joined the dragon boat team. I like sports for pleasure, not for competition. I also like music, I play bossa nova and I also play guitar.

Q: How do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years from now?CG: I’m almost 60, and for now I’m okay with Aria. My dream is, one day, when I am very old, I will have my very small restaurant without menu. I cook what I want, then people can come and say, “What do you have for today?” and that’s it. For now, I cannot leave Aria. It’s so good.

Q: Do you have a favorite dish or cuisine aside from Italian?CG: I like fusion. Japanese, Filipino, Thai -- Asian food, I love it! Outside Aria, I cook fusion. I tried paksiw with olive oil and red wine vinaigrette and it was excellent. Adobo with olive oil and Italian laurel -- fantastic! I tried Pizza with mongo and alugbati. I love the Filipino ingredients!

He also created a specialized hot sauce for Aria’s pizzas.

CG: We make our own hot sauce with olive oil and chilli labuyo. Once they tried it, they love it. They even commercialized it in Korea now.

Q: Is there anything that you don’t eat?CG: Yes, I’m a pescetarian. I don’t eat pork and beef. I only eat chicken if it’s native. It’s not that I don’t like, (but) I have so many good feedback when I stopped eating meat. No more problem with teeth, digestion, and bad breath, also sweating. For 15 years, I stopped going to the dentist, my shape is good, (and) I don’t get fat. I take my protein from beans like mongo.

Q: What is something you can’t give up eating?CG: I love cheese, especially buffalo mozzarella. It’s quite expensive but it’s really good. I cannot stop eating it. My favorite Filipino dishes are sinigang sa miso and kare-kare. The only (Filipino food) I can’t eat is balut. I (also) like Ilocano and Bicolano food.

Q: Any tips for those who aspire to become chefs in the future?CG: For me becoming a chef is all about how you love to cook. I don’t believe in going to culinary school to become a chef. Everything is better if it comes from the heart. To become a chef by heart, you will become more successful.

Q: If you were a dish, what would it be and why?CG: Greek salad. There are so many different flavors in one. It’s cheesy, lemony, (and) crispy. I like to have many qualities. I don’t want to do just one thing in life.

“Everything is better if it comes from the heart.”– Chef Gino

Chef Gino of AriaBy Michael Madriaga

Chef Gino with Boracay Sun’s Managing Editor, Michael Madriaga andKey Account Manager Joyce Ann Moros


A lot of the pioneers who came and settled in Boracay in the 80’s are still here. To this day, they are still enjoying the Island and what it has to offer. Some of them are the ones working quietly in making Boracay a better place. Quietly but fiercely. They followed their dreams, their hearts and their guts to put their bags down on this small white sand beach.

Back then, it was a hell of a trip to visit Boracay. After a crazy ride on a dirt road, in a jeepney from Kalibo, the few daring travelers had to ask, beg even, fishermen to ferry them to the Island. The fishermen who maneuver the bancas would drop them anywhere on the Island’s 4-kilometer long stretch of dazzling white sand beach, edged by a thick line of coconut and pandan trees. From there, the travellers could either walk on footpaths on grass under the trees, or on the dirt road. Then if you were one of the lucky ones, you could grab one of the only two available motorbikes and just ask anyone needing a ride to hop in. You could only find a few bungalows to rent back then so that in order accomodate incoming travellers, a few locals would offer homestay accommodation.

The wetlands were numerous and large. The lake in front of what stood now as Budget Mart actually covered D’Mall. The kids enjoyed fishing in the lake’s clear, sweet water.

Life was simple during those times. Mornings were usually the time to ride the Paraws and enjoy the sea. In the afternoon, everyone would attend to their own businesses. Then, before the day ends, everyone would walk out on the beach, sit on the sand and watch the sunset. Everyone would grab a beer, delivered by a pump boat. Someone on the Island owned a fridge powered by a generator; the only place were cold beers could be found!

As there was no electricity, evenings were extremely dark. If one stood on the beach, he would see a green light on one side of White Beach and a red light at the other end. Beachcomber and Bazura were the only two bars with their own generators where everyone would gather in and party all night long. Thus, making the dark beach glow in the evening.

Nonet Pillora arrived on the Island from Bacolod. He was selling hand-made shirts on the beach and remembers he would count 20 people passing by the beach in one whole day. If he sold four shirts to the very few tourists passing by, his day was done and he could go on and hang out with his friends.

Falling asleep on the beach was not uncommon. Nonet recalls he would wake up one morning without his bag and bike beside him, only to find them back in his place --- his bag was on the table and his bike parked against the wall of his room. Everyone knew each other and where they were living. The community was so small, then.

You could find water wells in some places around the Island. Once pumped, this water was used for showering, washing the dishes, and doing the laundry. But the drinking water was only to be found in the mainland. The residents would gather all their water jugs, ask the neighbors if anyone else needed water and take a Paraw to Malay to get some water at the source.

BLAST FROM THEPAST

White Beach 80’s

BY PAULINE ASTRONAUTPHOTOS BY CLAUDE GINDRAT

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

17| BORACAY SUN || OCTOBER 2014 |

Bulabog 80’sWhite Beach 80’s English Bakery 80’s The Creeks 80’s

Caticlan Airport ‘85

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The closest bungalow was called La Fiesta (where Gerry’s Grill is now situated) and offered rooms for only 500 pesos per night.

Kirel remembered how her life was turning around in the Island. She was hand making and selling necklaces made out of beads to the few tourists during peak season. Most foreigners were staying three to six months straight. There was no Korean or Chinese tourists venturing then, just mostly Japanese and Europeans. And the beautiful Swedish girls were everywhere! Kirel recalled it was nice to get to know them and spend time with them. Most of them were coming back every year so residents and returning visitors really got to connect and become friends.

At the end of the 90’s and early 2000, the low season was still extremely quiet. Kirel and her friends would all head to La Luna resort, behind Victory Diver to watch TV. Indeed, Normeth’s resort was one of the rare places with a television.

For grocery shopping, everyone went to Talipapa. That was the only fresh food and local grocery supplier. Though, one could find cheese and a few foreign products in Aloha Deli. The English Bakery was already famous for its freshly baked bread. Kirel and the original Bombom boys would call Jasper’s for food delivery when everyone was lazy to cook.

She was managing the Bombom boys then and Bombom Bar was the only place where all the drummers were jamming every night. They were mostly playing for weddings like Miriam Redito Quiambao’s.

Kirel said that Beachcomber and Bazura were the famous party places. But she cannot forget Summer Place’s huge party in 2000, where people were dancing everywhere on the beachfront and even in the water. Of course, the popular Hey Jude opened in 2001 and they all started to go out there as it was really close to their place.

Boracay has always been known for its parties and its laid-back lifestyle since the first backpackers settled on the Island. From the one of a kind Kontiki floating bar built in the late 70’s to the numerous party places that followed and then on events happening

every single night nowadays.

Today, Boracay is promoted all around the world as a big party place. Fortunately, the local community proves that Boracay is much more than that. It is indeed, great to party here but Boracay is also a home loved by many: a sanctuary for yoga lovers, a wonderful playground for young children, a haven for kiteboarding lovers and Dragon Boat paddlers. It is a place that gives work to many people. It is a place loved by people from different horizons.

Kirel first visited the Island early 90’s in May. The boat left them in Bulabog, near Mount Luho. To reach Station 3, they had to cross the whole Island by feet, passing through Balabag Elementary School. When she moved in a few years later, the Island was already a little developed. Stations 1, 2 and 3 were already boat terminals, no more than a drop off point. But there was still no electricity and water. She settled next to Bombom Bar. Bombom was only a native hut and nothing was to be found around but a creek, a little bridge and mangroves at the back. The water was clean and one could find a lot of Kalampay (tiny sweet water crabs) in August and September. Enterprising fishermen would also come and catch Bangus Fingerlings (baby Bangus) that they would sell.


EVENTS

P RESS RELEASE

The Red Cross Youth is one of the six major services of the Philippine

Red Cross. Its mission is to educate and empower the children and youth in the spirit of Red Cross through constructive trainings and effective leadership, and provide opportunities for directing and harnessing their energy and idealism into worthwhile humanitarian activities. This year, the Red Cross Youth Council was established in every school in Boracay Island and Mainland Malay both Public and Private, totaling 30 schools for both elementary and secondary.

The Chapter-wide Youth Assembly which is the Supreme Deliberative body of the Chapter Youth Council (CYC) aims to draw attention of the young people in humanitarian work and strengthen youth cooperation in the implementation of the PRC programs.

On September 6, 2014 with the theme, “Together We are One for Stronger Red Cross Youth” 450 Council Officers from Boracay Island and Mainland Malay gathered together from 1pm to 5pm at the Boracay Ecovillage Convention Center for learning activities and networking, sessions for Red Cross Youth Adviser to facilitate planning, presentation of accomplishments and focused group discussion to promote Stronger Red Cross Youth programs in schools. An Artistiks Competition is included in the assembly to promote

creativity using recyclable materials as figures and poster making.

The Objectives of the assembly were as follows:

1. Increase Promotion of Red Cross Youth Service and Strong Network among RCY Council Officers. 2. Elect new set of Chapter Youth Council and Committees for 2014-20163. Foster camaraderie among Red Cross Youth Adviser of different Red Cross Youth Councils.4. Empower the youth to stand up and let their voices be heard through servant leadership.5. Protect our environment through promotion of recycled products.

Red Cross Youth Volunteers and Advisers from Boracay Island and Mainland Malay will be connected as one in promoting the 3 R’s: Reduce Reuse and Recycle to preserve our environment and will work together to promote Stronger Red Cross Youth in Boracay-Malay Chapter to better help the community and uplift humanity.

The assembly was graced by the Keynote Speaker Asec Jo Jan Paul J. Peńol, Commissioner representing Visayas. Commissioner JP Peñol hails from Pavia, Iloilo, appointed by President Benigno Aquino III on May 5, 2014 as commissioner representing the Visayas,

and with the rank of Assistant Secretary of the National Youth Commission.

He pointed out 8 key areas for effective leadership for the Red Cross Youth and any youth leader to follow: 1) Being passionate 2) Working hard 3) Staying focused, 4) Pushes for the limits, 5) Has good ideas 6) Confidence, 7) Being a servant leader, and 8) Never give up.

The assembly is held every two years and was graced by the Municipal

Mayor John P. Yap, Honorary Chairman of the PRC Boracay-Malay Chapter and Chairman of the Board, Nieva B. Mendoza. Board of Directors and Chairman on Committee of Red Cross Youth, Elena T. Brugger made it possible for the venue and sponsors to be gathered, with the fervent support of the Schools District Supervisor and Board of Director Jessie S. Flores, together with the Board of Directors, Teachers, Parents, LGU Employees and Volunteers.

Red Cross Youth Assembly 2014By Marlo Schönenberger

EXLUSIVE OFFERFOR BORACAY SUN READERS

Enjoy up to 30% discount (and more) when you book a stay at The District Boracay this October to December! Simply present this article to enjoy the

exclusive offer, which comes with a sumptuous buffet breakfast and airport transfer to/from Caticlan. Book a minimum of 2-nights stay and get an additional complimentary set dinner for two!

Special offer is not valid during peak periods. For inquiries, please call (02) 234.5917, (02) 234.9058 or email [email protected]. For more information about the resort, please visit www.thedistrictboracay.com and follow The District Boracay’s official social networking accounts: Facebook (facebook.com/TheDistrictBoracay), Twitter (@DistrictBoracay) and Instagram (@thedistrictboracay).

Marlo Schönenberger is a registered nurse who has been working with Red Cross Boracay for the past three years, promoting volunteerism and life-saving awareness for the island community. This section is devoted to life-changing and life-saving survivor tips for all!


EVENTS

I SLAND HAPPENINGS

AREA 51

73rd JUNGLE FULL MOON - Oct. 927th BLACK MOON PARTY - Oct. 22

RED COCO BAR

“Come join us at the Coco Bar for a fun filled Oktoberfest with games, prizes, Bratwurst and Sauerkraut, and rivers of ice cold draft beer!

Buy a bucket of San Miguel Pilsen or Light for only Php 299 and get free Gising Gising!

Happy hour is from 4pm to 8pm. We’ll see you there!”

VILLA CAEMILLA

Oktoberfest Special All you can Eat and Drink For only Php 995

P&P TATTOO

#PandPtattooBoracayBreak

WOKERIA

Happy Hour : 9pm - 11pmWine Pairing Promo

SUBWAY

It’s Subway Boracay’s 1st year Anniversary!!

Grab any 6 - inch Sub and 22oz drink and you get another 6 - inch Sub for FREE!!

WHEN: Saturday, October 11, 2014 from 8 a.m to 12 midnight

WHERE: Subway Boracay, Beach Front Station 2, Nigi Nigi Nu Noos Resort

For additional information, you may call Subway at 288-1122.

LEVANTIN

Moonlight Party on Oct. 9, 2014.

Romanian Night – all Thursday of October 2014.

THE VESSEL

WHAT: Yoga & Dance Classes. Regular daily classes are at 930AM, 4PM, 530PM & 7PM

Avail the 10 Pass Class for Php 3,500.00 good for 3 months.

WHERE: The Vessel, Mandala Spa & Villas, along Angol Road Station 3 Brgy. Manoc-Manoc.

For Inquiries, contact: (+63 36) 288 5888 (+63 917) 506 [email protected] Spa & Villas Reception(+63 36) 288 [email protected]: www.facebook.com/thevesselmandalaor visit the website for updated weekly schedule www.mandalaspa.com

EPIC

Theme NightsOctober 31 - Halloween Ball 2014

TRIBAL CAFÉ AND CHILL-OUT LOUNGE

Tribal Café - the chill-out sunset bar in Boracay’s famous White Beach, with a wide variety of cocktails and drinks for special prices, with swinging live music nightly. Combined to give you a unique, wonderful and unforgettable experience.

5PM to 2 AM | Happy Hour: 5 – 9PM

CRAFTY’S ROOFTOP BAR

St.George’s Day - BBQ 12 O’clock start, Drink specials.

St, Patrick’s Day - BBQ 12 O’clock start, Drink specials.

Australia Day - BBQ 12 O’clock start, Drink specials.

Anzac Day - BBQ 12 O’clock start. Drink specials.

Halloween - Indian Buffet and Fancy Dress party with prizes.

7 STONES

Oktoberfest on October 15, 2014.

Steak Night – all Saturdays of October 2014.

COZINA

Wine Pairing Promo

ROOM REVIEWS20

| BORACAY SUN | | OCTOBER 2014 |IN ROOM

Here we go with our next set of hotel reviews, and, by way of contrast to last month when we featured the high end of the spectrum, this month we concentrate on the other end of the market - backpacker places, dorms, basic accommodation, and the likes. So, all you kite boarders returning to Boracay and surviving on a budget, look no further.

MNL HOSTELBy Daniel Leemon

Located near Bulabog Beach on the corner opposite Da Na Ru Spa, MNL Hostel, from the outside looks like an inconspicuous set of stairs leading up to

what seems like a pretty ordinary office space or shop. But once you climb those steps, you enter into a funky little kaleidoscopic backpacker’s world. All fresh blue, yellow and orange colors adorn the walls and reception desk. The staff offers you a warm greeting - informal, down-to-earth and genuine. The communal area is fairly small but nicely laid out and actually seems quite roomy with big blue pillars. It has a stylish white wicker wall-surround sofa, a bright blue mural on the wall, a collage of photos of previous guests, and some cool and inviting eclectic jazzy sounds piped through. The second and third floors are also brightly colored with psychedelic palm trees painted on the walls and corridors. There’s a graffiti wall for guests to chalk their comments down (some rude, some funny, some nice), and another wall painted luminous green. The roof garden is a delightful two-tiered space with a bar, hammocks, a couple of lounging areas with low seating bean bags, more murals on the walls and nice views of the sea through the palm trees. This is a place very cool to hang out in, away from all the madness. The whole feel of the place is communal and friendly which is exactly what one would look for in a hostel.

Prices range from 495Php – 660Php (including breakfast) for the dorms, and 1,650Php for the two individual rooms. The dorms have beds that are arranged in pods that make the rooms seem bigger than they actually are. The beds have more privacy with a little locker with key you’re your valuables. The walls are interesting contrasts of dull grey and some abstract brightly-colored stickers and/or minimalistic painting. The shared bathrooms are also in the same vein, very individualistic with trippy multi-colored green and pink doors and shelves.

A great place to meet like-minded backpackers, and all set up with that communal feel in mind.

WHITE BEACH DIVERS RESORT & GUESTHOUSEBy Daniel Leemon

This is right on the beach, located near the end of Station 3 just before Angol Road. You enter a wide and open space which serves as a dive shop with

a bar that stays open late, and shuffle out towards the back where you go up a rickety set of stairs into a compact and kind-of charming little warren-hatch of a place set on two or three different levels. You can also stay downstairs and through the back where there is a simple little courtyard with a couple of trees, a basic communal space oasis to chill out in.

The prices range from 300Php for the Dorms, 600Php for the Fan Room with TV, and 750Php for the Fan Room with en-suite toilet. The rooms are all very humble, mostly wood and thatched walls, wooden floorboards, sparse furnishings (or none at all), native style with open-fronted windows, bamboo furniture, small TVs, sloping roofs (so not particularly made for tall people), bare and basic, with no frills. There are also a few more rooms when you go through the back to the courtyard, a couple of which are concrete and tiled with en-suite bathrooms. Again, don’t expect any fineries or other extras – you’ll find just a bed, side table, fan, small TV and that’s your lot.

This is a no-frills sort of place, cheap and cheerful, with the added bonus that guests get a discount if they want to go diving.

Amenities: AC / Hot Water / WiFi / Locker with Lock / Breakfast / Activities / Bar / Daily Cleaning Service / Laundry / Back-up Generator

Tel: 036 288 2772 Mob: 0917 702 2160Email: [email protected]: www.mnlhostels.com

Amenities: AC (only 1 room) / WiFi / Activities / Bar / Daily Cleaning Service

Tel: 036 288 3809 Mob: 0999 813 1458Email: [email protected]: www.whitebeachdivers.com


HEALTH & WELL-BEING

HEALTHY YOUAfter graduating from the University of the Philippines, “Doc Girlie” found herself in Boracay and has considered it home for the past 15 years, deeply committed to a love for learning and in ensuring and providing the best health care possible for its residents and tourists and operating Metropolitan Doctors Clinics and Laboratory.

Wild nights in paradise seem like the every tourist’s dream, but

no one ever talks about the morning after. You partied from sundown to sunup, and now you’re paying the price - pounding headache, queasiness, dizziness, sensitivity to light and sound, muscle ache and irritability - all from consuming an inordinate amount of alcohol. How quickly last night’s fun has now become this morning’s nightmare when you have a hangover!

You know better than to buy anything labeled “hangover cure”, but there has to be something out there to ease this, right?

Although we don’t like to think of it as such, especially when we’re having such a good time, alcohol is actually a drug. It’s a depressant, and when taken in excess, it fills your body with toxins. Your body reacts as it would to any drug overdose: It tries to metabolize and get rid of the offending substances.

There are a lot of myths about hangover cures. The best cure for a hangover: time. Of course, people ignore prevention and don’t have “time” for the cure.

According to Ruth C. Engs, RN, EdD, a professor at Indiana University who has done extensive research on the effects of drinking. “Essentially there is no cure other than consuming water and liquids like juice (i.e., not spiked) in the morning.” Why? Hangover symptoms are a product of dehydration, hypoglycemia, and the poisonous side effects from toxins in our drinks. Water will not only help hydrate your muscles and organs, but will also aid in flushing out the toxins. Juices such as orange juice accomplish both while replenishingyour body with missing sugars.

But what of all those list of hangover remedies we get from everyone, from drinking more alcohol to “Stinson’s Hangover Fixer Elixer”? While research on this topic is limited and obviously there’s no one cure to fix all of the problems, let’s go through some of them and see what really works.

Rumor Remedy: Sweating It Out with Exercise

Unfortunately, exercise on its own isn’t an effective cure. In fact, if you exercise and aren’t properly hydrating, your symptoms could actually worsen. What you makes you feel better is the endorphin rush that typically comes along with a workout. If you’re looking to metabolize the alcohol through your body faster, sorry -- the gym is not the answer.

Real Remedy: Sleeping It Off

If you’re lucky enough to catch extra zzz’s, do it. Alcohol is metabolized at the rate of .015 of blood alcohol concentration (BAC), or roughly one drink every hour, meaning those extra brews can quickly add up. And just like

a broken heart, time can heal all and sleeping through your body metabolizing last night’s happy hour will make you feel better. Just make sure to keep hydrated once you’re awake.

Rumor Remedy: Hair of the Dog

Hair of the Dog or Drinking More Alcohol, like Bloody Marys, for the morning-after crowd. If you think drinking more alcohol will fix all your problems, think again. The body is going through withdrawal symptoms from overindulging, and drinking more just prevents more withdrawal symptoms. It will provide a numbing effect but all you’re doing is simply prolonging the inevitable.

That unlimited mimosa brunch isn’t a fix, instead you’re giving your body more toxins to deal with, delaying a future (and probably worse) hangover. Experts agree though that if you use this “cure”, the risk of abuse increases and often could lead to alcohol dependence.

Real Remedy: OTC Pain Relievers

It’s true that pain relievers work differently for different people, and after one too many glasses of wine they can ease your Saturday night aches and pains. However, frequent drinkers (those who consume more than one drink several nights a week) should sidestep Paracetamol (Tylenol Biogesic and the like), which can contribute to extra damage to your liver, and aspirin and ibuprofen (like Advil and Motrin), which can irritate stomach lining or even cause bleeding.

Rumor Remedy: Coffee

The temporary jolt from the caffeine might cause a burst of energy, much like a eating a candy bar for your 3 p.m. snack, but it won’t offset the sugar crash later. Keep in mind, once your sugar rush dies down you’ll be dealing with a caffeine withdrawal headache on top of a dehydration headache, not a way you want to spend your morning. Your best bet? Save the Starbucks trip until after you’ve had some time to recoup with water.

Real Remedy: Drinking Electrolytes

The dreaded hangover headache: Experienced by many, friend of none. Why does it feel like there is a tiny elf inside your head pounding at your skull with a hammer? Because your brain isdehydrated.

Electrolyte drinks are on the mark for a fast fix. While water does the trick to hydrate, sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade contain electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and chloride) that help replenish and restore your system levels. The sugar in the drinks gives you carbohydrates for energy. However, Samir Zakhari, Ph.D., director of the

Division of Metabolism and Health Effects at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism says research has shown Gatorade is no better for a hangover than water from your tap, so save your money.

If you’d prefer to go the natural route, try sipping on coconut water, which is stacked with electrolytes. Bonus: It’s low-calorie, nonfat, has less sugar than sports drinks and juices, and has been shown in some studies to be less irritating to your stomach.

Rumor Remedy: Eating Greasy Food

“Something greasy and filling always makes my stomach feel better, much more than eating anything else would.”What you eat after drinking doesn’t matter. Sadly, those hash browns and eggs are much better eaten pre-happy hour—it’s what you eat before all those Jagerbombs that can help lessen the pain the next day. Food helps slow the absorption of alcohol, and the longer it takes the alcohol to reach your blood stream, the longer it is until you become intoxicated. “Eating a high-protein dinner before drinking can help slow the absorption of ethanol into thecirculatory system,” says Engs. So while you think chips and salsa might sound like the perfect appetizer to accompany those pitchers of sangria you just ordered, you’re better off choosing nuts, cheese, or lean meats instead.

Toss-Up Remedy: Preventative Pills and Drinks

There’s a slew of hangover prevention products on the market, from supplements to drinks and you’re probably curious of the end result. All of them boast a mix of vitamins, herbs, and/or chemicals, and claim that ingestion before drinking will radically reduce the chance of having a hangover in the morning.

While studies have shown that vitamin C, along with B vitamins can combine with certain amino acids and glucose and help your body generate glutathione (a powerful antioxidant and cellular tripeptide that helps the body rid itself of alcohol’s toxins that runs low during drinking), there is little medical

research on preventative hangover products and many sources say they often don’t live up to the hype” Similar to OTC products, what works for some may not work for others. When thinking preventatively, you’re better off pace yourself with fewer drinks.

Fact

Next to time, all in all, simply drinking water is the best cure for a hangover. Dehydration does a doozy on your body and causes much of the discomfort associated with a hangover. Stick to water, be it tap, bottled or carbonated. Drink more than eight glasses a day while recovering.

Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, M.D., a consultant in addiction psychiatry at the Mayo Clinic, recommends ordering a glass of water with every beer—and alternate between the two to replace lost fluids as you go.

The Best Cure: Prevention

You’re a responsible adult, you know to drink responsibly. But just in case you forgot: Limit your drinks to about one every hour. Your body metabolizes each beer (or wine or shot) in about 60 to 75 minutes, Dr. Hall-Flavin says. Drink faster, and your blood alcohol level risesfaster. Eat before you drink and follow Dr. Hall-Flavin’s “I’ll have a beer and a glass of water” rule when ordering—and drink the water, don’t let it just sit on the table.

And how’s this for sobering: In research, “moderate drinking” by a man is defined as two drinks a day. More than five in one sitting is considered “heavy drinking.” So think before you order that extra round.

Keeping yourself well-hydrated and well-nourished when you’re drinking can go a long way toward minimizing the morning-after symptoms.

Hang Over Cures 101By Maria Cristina Teotico, MD


HEALTH & WELL-BEING

SAFETY TIPS


INDULGE

W HAT'S COOKING?

IF you want to try something different this holiday season, make sure to visit

Red Coconut in Station 2. With the help of Chef Albert “Al” Sia, their Executive Chef, Red Coconut will be introducing new additions to their menu as they welcome yet another high season in Boracay. This place has been popular to a lot of tourists for their sumptuous seafood barbecue. The restaurant is also a good place to hang out into during the night. Currently, most of their offerings are American and Filipino dishes, and the plan is to make their menu more varied. “We will be adding more (dishes) to our list to provide more options for our guests,” Chef Al said.

For starters, they will be introducing the Beer Battered Onion Rings which, for me, is also perfect for pulutan. No need to visit the fast food as our all-time favorite burger can now be enjoyed in the restaurant. I am sure that their Pepper-Crusted Chicken Burger will be a big hit. What’s more, it is served with Red Coconut’s own homemade French Fries. For pizza lovers out there, watch out for their Barbecue Chicken Pizza made of thin slices of chicken breast, bell peppers, and onions with Chef Al’s very own barbecue sauce. If you’re on a diet, Mulwarra Warm Salad (thin slices of beef on lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and olives dressed with tangy sauce) is for you.

Even more exciting is thatRed Coconut will also be including in their menu, their own version of Seafood Kare-Kare – clams, squids, prawns, fish and vegetables flavored with ground peanut. Before I tasted the dish, I asked Chef

Al where the bagoong (shrimp paste) was. “You won’t be needing it. Go ahead, try it!” Chef Al answered me. True enough, this Kare-Kare no longer needs bagoong as the mild-salty peanut sauce already highlighted the flavor of the meat. “I tried to improve the taste of our Kare-Kare. It’s really hard to find good quality alamang nowadays, that’s why a lot of people are allergic to it,” he added. If you really love seafood, this is a must-try and better if you pair it with the Seafood Paella – white rice and peas flavored with saffron, topped with prawns, clams, squids, and fish meat.

As comfort food goes, expect different cuisines from them. Meat lovers will surely enjoy the Vietnamese Spareribs, with its perfect blend of salty and spicy taste, the main reason why I am looking forward to Red Coconut’s new menu. Watch out also for Chef Al’s Indian Chicken Curry, which was cooked without the shortcuts. According to Chef Al “using ready-made ingredients provides more convenience, but doing it ‘from scratch’ creates better taste.”

To end your meal, don’t forget to try Red Coco Cafe’s Matcha Green Tea Shake, a drink that will surely relax your full tummy. A perfect refreshment during a warm day, or a companion while watching the sunset.

Red Coconut has been around for quite some time, and with their upcoming new offerings, they will surely continue to provide good dining experience to everyone. So, the next time your stomach goes loco, go to Red Coco!

The Perfect Holiday TreatBy Michael Madriaga


INDULGE

F OOD DIARIES

Adobo Done RightSituated in Station 2, Damiana’s

Filipino Restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes that we, Filipinos, can surely be proud of. Its restaurant was merged with two other must-try eats in Boracay: Tibraz Creperie and French Bistro, and FUEL (Fruits Used to Energize Life).

We once had a survey on Boracay’s Top Comfort Dishes (see Boracay Sun’s July Issue) and one of the best according to the locals is Damiana’s Twice-Cooked Chicken Adobo (P265). Served with a cup of rice, atchara (pickled papaya), and two quarters of chicken cooked to perfection, this meal is enough to satisfy a starving person. What makes this dish extra special is, it is served with three kinds of adobo sauces; traditional (soy flavor), creamy (with coconut milk), and spicy. The genius behind this masterpiece is none other than Chef June Vino, and the secret to its perfection is that he prepared it through slow-cook method. If you’re not into chicken adobo, they also have the Twice-Cooked Pork Adobo (P300), or you could also have it Combined – Adobo and Pork (P275). For those who wanted to have beef, Beef Salpicao (P250) is well-recommended.

If you’re leaning towards the healthier side, Tibraz and FUEL must be your

first choice. Tibraz offers different kinds of salads including the Salad Nicoise (P310), a traditional French salad, which is made up of boiled potatoes, green beans, tomatoes, olives, and tuna on top. Our favorite is the Salad Maison (P310), grilled vegetables mixed with greens and goat cheese, drizzled with homemade vinaigrette. Pair your salad with FUEL’s smoothies then you’ll be one step closer into having a healthier body. Must try drinks are; Detox (P200) – ginger, beet root, watermelon, lemon and apple; Refresh (P200) – orange,

pineapple, cantaloupe and mango; and Remedy (P200) – coconut water, banana, pineapple and mango. All drinks are made from fresh fruits, no sugar added!

The restaurant trio is also perfect for snacks (or if you just want to have a light meal). You could have either a panini or a savory crepe. Top picks are the Ham, Chicken, and Mozzarella Panini (P250) and the Epinard Crepe (P305) made of spinach, mushrooms, goat cheese and cream. Most of us might be more into sweet crepes, so,

to end your meal, best desserts would be; the Mango Amour Crepe (P250) – mango, vanilla ice cream and chocolate syrup; and the Banani Fique Crepe (P345) – banana, hazelnut choco, and vanilla ice cream topped with flaming Grand Marnier (yes, your crepe is literally on fire!).

One must have the patience when looking for good food in Boracay. Damiana’s might look simple from the outside, but this restaurant has hidden sumptuous treasures.

Going High with Thai

Just beside Budget Mart in D’Mall lies Thai Basil, a talk of the town

restaurant, which offers sumptuous dishes that will surely satisfy your cravings for authentic Thai food. Upon entering the establishment, you will be welcomed with smiles from their crew, and you will notice the different decorations that will make you feel as if you were in Thailand.

First thing we did was order our drinks. Thai Basil offers beverages that incorporate different ingredients, thus, creating a unique taste and refreshing feeling with every sip. My favorite is the Elderflower Elixir (P200) made from elderflowers (sambucus) and other aromatic herbs, which is truly energizing and, as how Thai Basil describes it, will open all your senses. I also tried the Pineapple Basil Pleasure (P160) – basil in your drink?! Why not? Together with pineapple, coconut, almond milk and ginger, this drink is close to piña colada – Asian style! Another must try is the Kiwi Ginger Booster (P200), the perfect blend of kiwi and ginger that will boost your immune system.

For their new offerings, Thai Basil included set meals on their menu. You now have the chance to taste their food, from appetizer to dessert. Their set menu includes the following: Ka Pao Gai (Minced Chicken with Basil and Pandan Chicken); Gaeng Keo Wan Nua (Green Beef Curry and Fried Spring Rolls) – perfect for those who want spice curry; and Panang Pla (Panang Fish Curry and Fresh Spring Rolls) – a must-try for those who want their curry to be a little bit sweet. For vegetarians, they also have the Massaman J (Vegetables in Massama Curry served with Fried spring rolls). All set meals are served with rice, salad or veggies, a dessert (either Mango Sticky Rice or fresh fruits) and a glass of Pandan Iced Tea.

If you prefer to have more dishes on your table, make sure to try their deep-fried prawns in thick curry sauce or Chu Chi (P690), which, for me, is the best prawn dish on the island. Another must-try is the Pla Tod Rad Nam – Pla (P600) – deep-fried tanigue fish with

green mango salad, which my team and I would highly recommend.

We ended our meal with a glass of Thai Iced Tea (P120). Unlike the commercialized ones, this version of milk tea is way healthier and you can even taste a little bit of bitterness of the Thai tea – best way to lessen the feeling of being bloated after eating a lot of their delicious food.

A lot of people might think that Thai food is spicy in general, but it is

actually all about the perfect balance of sweet, sour and spicy. An Australian Chef once said, “Thai food ain’t about simplicity.” True enough, complexity is what makes Thai food so special and mouthwatering.

Thai Basil is located in D’Mall, Station 2. If you want to know more about their latest offerings and promos, make sure to visit and ‘like’ their Facebook page (/ThaiBasilBoracay).

By Michael Madriaga

Panang Pla

Pla Tod Rad Nam Gaeng Keo Wan Nua Ka Pao Gai

Sald Nicoise Beef Salpicao

Twice-Cooked Chicken Adobo


INDULGE

H ALLOWEEN 2014

W ATER BABYA Halloween Treat on the IslandBy Pauline Astronaut

Halloween is coming soon! It’s always an amazing time for the

kids when they could dress up in their craziest or scariest way, playing tricks (and pranks) to everyone. There are endless ways to celebrate and prepare for Halloween. First, you will need a costume. The best is to think about it in advance and ask your children what they want to look like. Scary? Funny? Super Hero? Princess? Halloween

doesn’t always have to be scary.The costume will depend on your budget. You can buy one which is already made or make it yourself even with the help of your children. Keep it simple and comfortable. Remember, the kids will spend a lot of time running around the beach and under the heat.

Prepare for the day by doing some crafts around the Halloween theme with

your kids. Carve up some pumpkins and put some candles within, in front of your doors. Decorate your house with spider webs and funny monster cut outs or drawings. For a delicious treat, bake some carrot cupcakes!

Every year, Bombom Bar organizes a Trick or Treat party and have the kids go around D’Mall to get some treats from the different business establishments. You can register your children a few days before the event, straight at Bombom Bar.

There are also awards for the best costume, funniest costume and spookiest one in different age categories. Parents can also join the contest. You can also contact The District, Patio Pacific, Shangri-La and Discovery Shores that organize yearly awesome Trick or Treat parties during the day for children of all ages.

If your children are too young to enjoy the blasting music of the Halloween parties, you can organize your own playdate with a few friends. Keep it small and simple by using a few decoration that you can find around the Island or you may even just print from the Internet. Let your guests do a few activities like drawing and cutting bats and black cats or create little doll witches.

If you are worried about your children’s teeth and the sugar rush you might have

to deal with in the evening, you can prepare healthier treats. Prepare pop-corn, dried fruits, cheese sticks, mixed nuts or even plain dark chocolate bars that contain less sugar than the usual chocolate bars and candies.

On the day of the spooks, don’t forget to bring with you some spare clothes in case your kids get tired of their costume and already want to change.

In the evening, let your children enjoy a good Halloween movie, appropriate for their age. Here is my top 10 list of classic fun Halloween movies to watch with the family:

Ghostbusters (1984) The Adams family (1991)Casper (1995)The Nightmare before Christmas (1993)Monster House (2006)Corpse Bride (2005)Beetlejuice (1988)Coraline (2009)Monster, Inc (2001)Halloweentown (1998)

As for the little ones, a first screening before bed is safe with these two picks:

Pooh’s Heffalump Halloween movie (2005)It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)

Happy Halloween to all!

While everybody is doing their countdown to Christmas and

New Year, I am doing my countdown for the upcoming Halloween. Being a party freak myself, Halloween has been my favorite event ever since I started working in the Island. Bars usually hold Halloween parties on the 31st of October and this year is perfect since it falls on a Friday. I’m guessing there will be extended parties over that weekend.

Halloween in Boracay is that time of the year when the pirates of the Caribbean would raise a toast with the undead and the Na’vi would fly in their banshees from Pandora to jam with Boracay’s Island Rhythm. The island turns into a mardi gras of Egyptian pharaohs fist-bumping with Greek gods, Disney princesses pop-lock-and-drop-ing with fairies, zombies hunting for booze instead of brains and Miley Gaga twerking with a headless nun.

In a night of revelry filled with people from different walks of life, or creatures from different worlds, Halloween could become a spectacular night or may turn out into spook-tacular one. Here are a few tips to avoid the drama and have an awesome Halloween party:

1. Dress comfortably.

Stilettos would only look sexy during the first hour – or maybe half. In a tropical island, 15 minutes in those Harry Potter cloaks would get you dripping wet with sweat. Body painting would be nice if you’re not itching to scratch it off and the mummy costume would be fun if only you could dance freely in it. Fun and comfort goes hand in hand so you have to choose an outfit that won’t be a burden to wear.

2. Be creative.

There will be a lot of witches, white ladies and zombies. This year, I’m anticipating an army of Maleficents and Elsas from the movie “Frozen”. If you don’t want an awkward encounter with your doppelganger (particularly if theirs is better than yours) then stay away from these predictable characters. Create new characters like Dumbledore: The Explorer a.k.a. Dumbledora! – or something to that effect.

3. Find a costume buddy.

Two bananas in pajamas are better than one. You and your buddies can dress up as Justice League, Avengers, Power Rangers, Sailor Moon (do they have a group name?), or, better yet, Lotlot and friends! Your gang could also be a battalion of yellow Minions or blue Smurfs. Remember: friends don’t allow friends to make a fool of themselves – alone.

4. Bigger isn’t always better.

Sure, you will be a head turner in that 10-foot Victoria’s Secret-ish pair of sparkling wings but you will end up partying outside the clubs. Bars will be jam-packed and don’t expect people to give way for you and your wings – same with your gigantic headdress or horns. It’s a party, not a runway, so be considerate.

5. Expect the unexpected.

It could be a humid night or it might rain – either way, it could transform your drop-dead gorgeous Twilight vampire makeup into a flesh-eating Walking Dead zombie mess. Someone might spill his/her drink on your mom’s wedding gown, which you secretly “borrowed” for your Bride of Chucky costume. And the usual wardrobe malfunctions: broken zippers, ripped hems, etc. Be prepared. I’m not suggesting that you bring with you a chest full of costumes but mentally preparing yourself for

anything that could happen would save you from getting annoyed and spoiling your night. So what if you ripped your pants when you dropped to Martin Garrix’s “Animals”? You’re in an island and people don’t really care what you wear – especially on a Halloween night. So get over it and get back to partying!

6. Pick your poison wisely.

While it’s a perfect time to get drunk and get away with it because people won’t recognize you behind your Scream mask, you definitely don’t want to ruin other people’s fun or wake up the next day trying to wipe off fake blood on your forehead only to realize it was actually real – and you had no idea where you got it from. Or worse, wake up at the beach wearing your shoes – only your shoes!

Most importantly, before going out to party…you have to… first, take a selfie!

Advance Happy Halloween!

TIPS, TRICKS AND TREATSBy Gio Plameran

BOTTOM'S UP!

27

BORACAY – The night starts with a group of strangers – wearing

yellow shirts, shot glasses and wrist bands. The group would then go from one bar to another, getting tipsier and tipsier and having new friends as the night progresses. At the end, they would party hard as if they have known each other for so long--with some planning their next adventures on the next days while others exchanged contact details and promises that they would soon meet again in their own cities or countries. It’s the typical night of PubCrawl: A Party with No Strangers. Since 2012, Boracay PubCrawl has changed the landscape of the night life industry by making it easier for anybody to find new friends. The main

goal is not to get wasted but to ensure maximum fun with new found friends. That’s why, for more than two years already, Boracay PubCrawl has been the #1 Activity in Boracay according to TripAdvisor, and received recognitions from the Department of Tourism and various media shows. For more than five hours, this party of crazy-fun strangers-turned-friends will invade five bars and clubs where they get free entrance and exclusive drink specials. They also get free shots throughout the night to make sure that even if they’re shy, they’ll have the extra boost needed. One of the best things about PubCrawl is this is not a party exclusive for extraverted people. Even for a solo traveler, reserved type, or someone who just want to chill, you can find your own niche here. Even if you do not drink that much, remember, it’s not about getting drunk and crawling back to your hotel but more of finding a person with your same level of craziness and creating a connection. Due to the increasing demand of PubCrawl, we are bringing the party to different cities in the country. With its successful runs in Manila and Cebu City, PubCrawl will invade Bacolod City in time for Masskara Festival and will also be present to Manila PubCrawl 2nd Anniversary this October. If you are interested to join this amazing night of making friends, just text +63917.808.8433 or visit our website http://www.pubcrawl.ph/.

Boracay PubCrawl: A Party with No Strangers


ENVIRONMENT

Bats: Our Nocturnal FriendsBy Pauline Astronaut

It has been more than 10 years that the Friends of the Flying Foxes (FFF), a group of volunteers composed of Boracay residents, wildlife specialists and

returning visitors, have been working on preserving the bats of Boracay, and especially the Flying Foxes (fruitbats).

Today, one of their long term plans is about to gain fruition. Indeed, the FFF together with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the local goverment, and the stakeholders of the lands, where the Bats are to be found, are working on establishing a Wild Life Sanctuary in Yapak. This will be a huge step to help Boracay keep its three different species of bats: the Golden Crown (which is part of the worldwide endangered species), the large Flying Foxes and the Common Island Flying Foxes. It will also keep Boracay Island and the northern part of Panay, attain ecological balance.

Here are a few facts that you probably did not know (and we are glad to learn about it as well) about our beloved Boracay Bats:

> One insect bat can eat 2,000 mosquitoes and other insects in one night, keeping the insect population in check. Thanks to the bats, there are no cases of Dengue reported in Yapak so far. They also eat insects that destroy our crops (corn and other cultures in the field), keeping them naturally healthy.

> Fruit bats, especially the Flying Foxes, regenerate the Boracay’s forest and the Northwest Panay Peninsula by feeding and excrementing seeds of more than 300 species of plants, including banana trees! Up to 90% of the forests are planted by the bats, as they spread seeds faster by flying high and long distances (up to 40 km per night).

> One tree can give oxygen to 10 adults! Imagine how much oxygen is supplied by the bats when they plant trees every night!

> Fruit bats aid in pollination. Some trees cannot grow without being pollinated by fruit bats. The Kapok tree (local cotton tree) is only planted by bats. Thanks to these nocturnal creatures, we can have cotton filled pillows for a cheap price!

> Boracay’s water source comes from the forest in the mainland which the Flying Foxes reforest.

> The Flying Foxes of the Philippines use the same roost and rarely transfer. The roost in Yapak is essential for the bat population of the Flying foxes that plant all our forests in all Aklan.

Halloween fact: Do you know what Batman and the bats have in common? They work and help us at night! They sleep during the day, wake up at night and do good deeds in the dark.

Fruit Bat Flying

Hanging Fruit Bats Insect Bat

Boracay Sun | October Issue

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Transcript of Boracay Sun | October Issue