http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/ Philippines forum for tourists, Filipinos and Expats. en Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:29:52 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/images/misc/rss.jpg http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/ http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/43-trip-agbanawag-nueva-excija.html Tue, 23 Feb 2010 05:15:51 GMT My wife called up one afternoon of November, 2009, to tell me about a trip to their province, Agbanawag, Nueva Excija. I reluctantly approved. So... My wife called up one afternoon of November, 2009, to tell me about a trip to their province, Agbanawag, Nueva Excija. I reluctantly approved.

So that Friday night we went to Parkway Village in Quezon City to spend the night at the church parsonage. The old, sometimes spooky parsonage was near my wife's sister's home, so it was convenient to spend the night there, especially when we were to leave for Agbanawag early next morning, Saturday.

So, Saturday morning we were off in my wife's sister's van. She went with her husband, Jun.

The Agbanawag countryside is picturesque. It's still very much rural, with endless rice fields spanning the sides of the national road. My sons were amazed by the sights of carabaos or water buffalo soaking in pools of mud and also nipa huts that dotted the landscape--as if my kids were balikbayans.

I was refreshed by scenes of everyday rural life--the warm fellowship of town folks in sari-sari stores sharing stories and laughing, young men riding on motorized carabao sleighs or "kuliglig" and talking to each other shouting, sights of folks cooking food in clay pots over firewood, etc. We saw all these plus more as our van passed by towns. :p

It was a 4-hour trip from Balintawak, Quezon City. We took the NCLEX. Finally, when we reached a dam spillway in Rizal, Agbanawag amid green rice fields, we knew we were near.

At the site where my dad-in-law kept his sacks of palay, two fish pens, and a concertized hut called "Kalapaw," we disembarked. We cooked newly harvested rice and the Tilapya fish we manually caught from the pens--grilled--plus pork adobo and veggie salad.

After lunch we talked on the open second floor of the kalapaw, laughed a lot, and talked of ghost-hunting in the evening. The boys (my two sons) loved it.

Late in the afternoon, we sold several sacks of palay to traders around the area. As we scouted, I enjoyed watching rustic huts of bamboo, plenty of old, spooky, huge trees which seemed to shroud the area with shades, ominous shadows, and mystery.

After selling, we proceeded to the rice field for a visit, and there we caught fantastic scenes of the golden sunset. We were all amazed by the wonderful, almost magical sight! I breathed in plenty of fresh air and feasted my eye sight with how the dying sunlight and dusk fought for supremacy. My eldest son walked around the rice field to feel its expanse, and marveled at seeing for the first time a banana heart still attached to the tree. The air was so pleasantly cool.

When we went back to the kalapaw, another round of Tilapya was being grilled, with fresh veggie salad. You could smell the sweet aroma in the air! Then, we planned on visiting the old abandoned hospital nearby for some adventure, but decided we were too tired for that (umm, some of my companions were a bit scared, too. Hihi!) :eek:

Later, we prepared our mosquito nets and went to bed after a few more light conversations. The place was very quiet except for some insect chirps. In Agbanawag--as in most other provinces--8 pm is "late" and you're supposed to be in bed at the time.

When we were almost asleep, we thought we heard some footsteps and strange voices in the shadows. :eek: We dared not call each other's attention; we all opted to listen quietly. We told of the strange sounds the next morning over breakfast with much excitement and laughter. :D

Finally, we left for Manila with bunches of fresh, ripe bananas, loads of Tilapya, and a sack of rice. God is good! :cool: ]]> tourist guide http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/43-trip-agbanawag-nueva-excija.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/starman/35-re-manila-under-water.html Sun, 27 Sep 2009 10:10:51 GMT As I was reading the world news on BBC network,from my home in canada,I couldnt believe what was happening again in beautiful philippine Island.... As I was reading the world news on BBC network,from my home in canada,I couldnt believe what was happening again in beautiful philippine Island. According to the report,the city of Manila is under ;nearly four ft of water,with many lives lost and an almost equal amount of missing persons.And,possibly because of climate change.The report also stipulated that;no int,or domestic flights were landing or departing;untill the water level was down.How unfortunate and inconvenient for philipinos and people of the world making these lovely Islands their homes,but whatever is going on on ,and around our home planet,it is beyond our control.....No matter where we are on earth,we are at the mercy of nature itself;even in beautiful philippines. Regards,Starman. ]]> starman http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/starman/35-re-manila-under-water.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/29-how-i-figured-cory-aquino-s-1986-people-power-revolution.html Thu, 06 Aug 2009 02:41:44 GMT I was then 25 or 26 when Cory Aquino, widow of assassinated Senator Ninoy Aquino, challenged then Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos to a snap... I was then 25 or 26 when Cory Aquino, widow of assassinated Senator Ninoy Aquino, challenged then Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos to a snap election. It was believed that Marcos was losing popular support, thus, the perceived need for a snap election.

I enlisted as a LABAN team member. “Laban” or “fight” vowed to stop all means of cheating from any electoral party. So we were trained to spot electoral cheating at a glance and studied the omnibus election code. We conducted house to house surveys to make sure there were no flying voters around. By the way, this was purely voluntary work. We were not paid a cent.

During the election, we were poll watchers. We strictly saw to it that election officials at the poll booths did their job well. Later, after the polls, we watched the local ballot counting, and then accompanied the ballot box transfer to city hall. We guarded the boxes with our lives. We were instructed that should an ambush happen along the way to city hall, we should cling to the boxes even if it meant death. Fortunately, nothing untoward happened during the transfer.

After the counting, both Marcos and Cory declared themselves winners. So the country had two presidents, and most likely, two armies. The armed forces of the Philippines were on Marcos’ side while Cory had no army to speak of, save what little protection her supporters could provide. But Cory proclaimed herself president anyway, and we supporters had to back her up.

Then, the unthinkable suddenly happened. The military gradually was divided and some of them bolted away from Marcos. They were headed by Juan Ponce Enrile (now senator) and General Fidel Ramos (would be president) and the RAM boys—composed of rebel forces within the armed forces. RAM stood then for Reform the Armed Forces Movement. It was later changed to Rebolusyonaryong Alyansang Makabayan which led the coups against Cory during her term.

Enrile, Ramos and the RAM boys joined forces together at Camp Crame, the police camp along EDSA in Quezon City. Being in danger of attacks from the much stronger Marcos army, they called for people to join them in their cause. It was the most incredible thing—these two former Marcos henchmen, bolting away and denouncing the regime they once so embraced. The first time I saw them go on air, I told myself, “Keep that going and you’ll end up heroes. You may die there with your cause, but the Filipino people will never forget what you did!” I almost cried listening to the two dedicate their lives to true freedom and democracy.

Then, Cardinal Jaime Sin also went on air telling people to get out into the streets, to EDSA, and support Enrile and Ramos. Butch Aquino, brother of Ninoy Aquino, also called for all ATOM members to gather in front of Camps Crame and Aguinaldo. ATOM stood for August 21 Movement (August 21, 1983 was when Ninoy was shot at the airport tarmac coming home from the US. I was then in third year college). I wanted to go there to support Enrile and Ramos but I saw that I could not do so alone. It was dangerous to go to such rallies alone. You need to go in groups or teams.

Then, the LABAN electoral teams were recalled. I told my dad and mom I had to go. Reluctantly, they let me go, understanding that everyone had to sacrifice then for the rebirth of real democracy and put an end to dictatorship. I knew it was very dangerous—the Marcos loyalist army was eager to attack rebel forces or civilians. And I thought about how atrocious and abusive the military was then, with the reports we heard about summary abductions and executions and unmarked mass graves. But I had to be part of this. I told myself.

So we went. My churchmate, Jerome, went with me. When we reached EDSA, people were already numbering by the hundred thousands. It was about 3 or 4 pm, February 23, 1986. It was like a super huge fiesta. Food was everywhere and people were so happy singing, laughing, telling stories, shaking hands with one another or hugging though they were total strangers to each other, dancing, or listening to big radios with full volumes. We were instructed to know as many people around as possible. So we went around asking groups where they were from. This was necessary for easy ID during a violent dispersal. We should look out for each other in case someone was abducted or arrested by the military. This also discouraged spies.

Later, at about 5 or 6 pm, the LABAN team was instructed to transfer to the gate of channel 4. The EDSA people were sad to see us leave. And it was a known fact that Marcos was aiming at getting back channel 4, which was a government TV station taken by the rebel forces. So it was a pretty hot spot.

When we arrived at the gate of channel 4 we were surprised—there were only the 20 or 25 of us there to defend it! The LABAN team, all from Project 8 in Quezon City, was in charge of stopping tanks that may attack channel 4. It was dark, and we feared the prospect of Marcos attacking covertly with the aid of darkness. I was then a black belt in martial arts, but that didn’t mean a thing against army tanks!

Some of my team mates were preparing to make molotov bombs and pillboxes—just in case, they said. Some had guns. They offered us arms. I said, no, thanks. We were there to pray and stop a bloody confrontation. I managed to influence a lot of them to stay unarmed. We were there to die for freedom, not defend ourselves. I was single then, so I had no misgivings about dying there, though I was so scared. Was I going to be shot or ran over by a tank? Would I be abducted and killed somewhere and buried in an unknown shallow grave in the mountains? These were possible scenarios that happened regularly then.

At 2 am the next day, February 24, 1986, Marcos went on air. He warned civilians at the gate of channel 4 to get out, lest they be harmed by the attacks of his tiger tanks! We had a big radio then amplified by a microphone, so everyone heard it and woke up or stood up and looked pale. There were only 20 to 30 of us. After a while, we heard reports that human cordons placed in street intersections within our vicinity were already broken into by the tanks and were on their way to us. The vicinity was like a subdivision.

All of a sudden, Catholic seminarians suddenly came out of nowhere, clad in all white and holding rosaries, shouting, “Cordon! Cordon!” There were about 50 of them. So we locked arms with each other, while the seminarians, occupying the front lines, also did so. However, we still looked so vulnerable—two lines of human barricade could never stop tanks! “This is it” I whispered. We’re gonna die here! I told Jerome he could still back off since he had a family. He decided to stay.

The tanks were reportedly very near us. I think Marcos issued another warning to us, and then the voice of announcer June Keithley, working for People Power, was heard on radio. She urged General Ramos to send help for the team at channel 4. She also urged more people power to reinforce us. In a matter of minutes, when I turned around, I saw about 200 to 300 additional people power right behind us. It was like a miracle! People responded quickly, willingly, and bravely from everywhere! More were coming. I suddenly felt elated. Now, at least, there would be 300 other dead people in the area, not just 25!

We were ready for the tanks. However, General Ramos suddenly went on air. He said the newly defected Blue Diamonds, the elite jet fighter team of the air force, were now on their way to our area to hit the Marcos tiger tanks if they didn’t back off pronto. We clapped and cheered wildly after hearing that. After a few moments, we received reports that the tiger tanks moved to an opposite direction, away from us. There was wild celebration among our comrades!

More of the army defected to the Enrile-Ramos camp. The entire air force surrendered to the rebel forces. Millions of people were in EDSA, although government estimates said there were just a few thousands. When Enrile and Ramos vowed to support Cory Aquino and her presidency, more people went out to EDSA. We were there to support the symbol of democracy--Cory Aquino.

Early morning of February 25, 1986, as we started heading for home to be replaced by fresh LABAN teams from another district, an unmarked army helicopter suddenly appeared and hovered around channel 4. We looked for a yellow ribbon but the helicopter or the armed soldiers visible from it had none. So we ran back to our position. Some of us, I among them, followed the helicopter as it circled and flew lower. We thought it was about to attack. Then the soldiers inside flashed an “L” sign or a LABAN sign and the rebel soldiers inside channel 4 acknowledged them. Only then were we able to breathe easily again.

When we have gone home, we later received news that the Marcoses had gone to the US. There was wild dancing and celebration in the streets—in EDSA and elsewhere in the metropolis. But I just stayed home. It was enough that freedom and democracy had been restored in the land. ]]> tourist guide http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/29-how-i-figured-cory-aquino-s-1986-people-power-revolution.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/28-maligayang-bati-danskeren.html Thu, 06 Aug 2009 01:35:43 GMT et forskud Happy Birthday til dig.....hvordan unge er du?? ;) et forskud Happy Birthday til dig.....hvordan unge er du?? ;) ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/28-maligayang-bati-danskeren.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/17kjk/27-farewell-our-president-woman-yellow.html Wed, 05 Aug 2009 06:39:47 GMT Maria Corazon “Cory” Sumulong Cojuangco Aquino, born on January 25, 1933, 0n 1986 she was elected as a President serving the Philippines from... Maria Corazon “Cory” Sumulong Cojuangco Aquino, born on January 25, 1933, 0n 1986 she was elected as a President serving the Philippines from 1986-1982 and also she was the first female President here in the Philippines. The only person in world history who became a president by fate and not by ambition, and the only woman who led her people to win a revolution with nothing but faith in God.

Her presidency, her advocates and her works, is the inspiration of the poor to continue to go on even though crisis and poverty. What a person she has the one called “Mother of Nation”.

On August 1, 2009 she passed away died in cardio-respiratory arrest and colon cancer, we know she’s not giving up and fighting to that illness until to her last breath, her death was not a loss to the Filipino people but a means for all the citizen here in the Philippines to preserve, defend and continue to push for democracy in the country, and never allowed the enemies of democracy to win.

Thousands of people gathered and come in Manila Cathedral to see the funeral and last face of our beloved President. We know she died peacefully, her death leaves the whole country weeping and hurting but we know she fulfilled her mission to lead and direct her people from the domination and oppression of dictatorship toward democracy here in our country. The Mother of democracy, The light of our Nation and her legacy lives on forever. ]]> 17kjk http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/17kjk/27-farewell-our-president-woman-yellow.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/17kjk/26-why-will-you-love-philippines-filipinas-filipinos.html Sat, 01 Aug 2009 23:04:00 GMT As a man, I love to see the beautiful Filipinas smile. I even enjoy the smile of the men, coming from their hearts. I know many foreign women find... As a man, I love to see the beautiful Filipinas smile. I even enjoy the smile of the men, coming from their hearts. I know many foreign women find the Filipino men polite, romantic and attractive. Many foreign men are attracted to Filipinas and marry them. Some stay here, some take their wives back to their countries. Some return to the Philippines later, to live or retire. Some only return every year to visit. Once you have been here, you will come back. The Philippines and the Filipino people are addictive.

Generosity is part of the culture in the Philippines. Getting to know the Filipino culture will greatly enhance your living or traveling experience. But it is not something you have to do. The Filipino people are very tolerant of foreign culture and customs. They understand it's hard to adapt to another country right away. Filipinos have traveled the world as contract workers, and know the problems of acculturation

It is truly a fantastic place to visit for many reasons. I hope you also get to experience the hospitality and the joy of being here in Philippines. If you find it hard to understand or accept another culture, you will not be happy in any country, certainly not here. ]]> 17kjk http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/17kjk/26-why-will-you-love-philippines-filipinas-filipinos.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/25-goodbye-our-dear-president.html Sat, 01 Aug 2009 00:10:53 GMT Former Philippine President Corazon "Cory" Aquino passed away at 3:18 am August 1, 2009.

I'm in great awe to what Pres. Cory stands for, she is the modern icon of democracy in the Philippines and the rest of the world.

Her remains will be at Heritage Park , Taguig City. ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/25-goodbye-our-dear-president.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/23-3pm-today.html Mon, 27 Jul 2009 05:29:50 GMT At 3pm today, the (hopefully) last state of the nation address (SONA) of the 14th Philippine president will be delivered. Whether truthful report... At 3pm today, the (hopefully) last state of the nation address (SONA) of the 14th Philippine president will be delivered. Whether truthful report or not, majority in the Philippines is in great anticipation for this speech,.

I hope it will be her last.

Whoever the 15th president will be, let him be guided by God and lead the Philippines righteously. We long for "good governance"
in our country.

And among millions of my fellow Filipino, I offer a yellow ribbon for Former President Aquino. ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/23-3pm-today.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/22-do-you-know.html Sun, 26 Jul 2009 12:44:04 GMT The Republic of the Philippines has a total of 5 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Aside from the *Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park,* the... The Republic of the Philippines has a total of 5 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Aside from the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, the other 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites here are:

• Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (1993)
• Baroque Churches of the Philippines (1993)
• Historic Town of Vigan (1999)
• Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras (1995)

There are still 27 other sites included in the tentative list that is subject to UNESCO's decision/proclamation. Philippines - UNESCO World Heritage Centre

Do you know that?! ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/22-do-you-know.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/21-good-work-mr-administrator.html Mon, 20 Jul 2009 03:31:10 GMT APPLAUSE for our Administrator/s ( Mr. Rhoody) for the immediate action (banning cocosan) on those malicious postings. Keep it up! APPLAUSE for our Administrator/s ( Mr. Rhoody) for the immediate action (banning cocosan) on those malicious postings.

Keep it up! ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/21-good-work-mr-administrator.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/20-just-mental-exercise.html Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:34:05 GMT > This is a mathematical challenge, and it's been said that: > > > > If you're an engineer (or history major) , you...]]> Calling on Mathematicians…

> > This is a mathematical challenge, and it's been said that:
> >
> > If you're an engineer (or history major) , you should
> > be able to solve it in (under) three minutes, if you're an architect, in
> > three hours; if you're a doctor , in six hours; if you're an
> > accountant , in three months and if you're a lawyer , probably never. (Excuse me, but there are exemptions to rules... ).
> >
> > If you're good at math or logical problems, solve this
> > challenge and the answer is the password to open the spreadsheet to which
> > you can add your name to the hall of fame.
> >
> > What is the missing number in this logical series?
> >
> > 1, 2, 6, 42, 1806, ____???
> >
> > The answer is the password to open the spreadsheet that is
> > attached to this email. If you figure it out, open the spreadsheet,
> > type your name in, save it and resend it to your friends.

BUT I can't attach the excel file, don't know how. Just leave your answer here or email me at len.pajarito@yahoo.com ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/20-just-mental-exercise.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/rhoody/19-july-08-way-sidlakan.html Tue, 07 Jul 2009 23:58:33 GMT After almost 2 weeks my foot is half way ok, so I am on my way out for some appointments. I hate to be trapped at home so I am happy and in a very... After almost 2 weeks my foot is half way ok, so I am on my way out for some appointments.

I hate to be trapped at home so I am happy and in a very good mood.

The Sidlakan village in Dumaguete is a the tourism center somewhere on the outskirts. A complete waste of money which was obviously build to stuff some peoples pockets as nobody goes there.

I meet the head of the Negor tourism office to offer them a platform to present themselves.

I run (w/ the dane) www.dumagueteinfo.com and are happy to work together with them as we have more daily visitors (2000 +) than all Dumaguete tourist pages together... and done more for tourism here than this million-peso-grave called Sidlakan.

2 years ago when I approached them they were that highnoseed and now they asked me to meet them again. Let's see what they can offer. It's their turn now to make an offer if they want publicity for themselves... ]]> Rhoody http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/rhoody/19-july-08-way-sidlakan.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/18-fiesta-bocaue-river-pintados.html Sun, 05 Jul 2009 08:10:25 GMT Do you know that? Bocaue River Festival (BOCAUE RIVER FESTIVAL of Bocaue, Bulacan Philippines... Do you know that?

Bocaue River Festival (BOCAUE RIVER FESTIVAL of Bocaue, Bulacan Philippines) , an annual fluvial parade in honor of "Holy Cross of Wawa" is being celebrated every 1st Sunday of July in Bocaue , Bulacan.

While Tacloban City, Leyte celebrated Pintados festival (Pintados Festivals and Fiestas Philippines) last June 30, to commemorate,the Pre-Spanish history of the natives, retelling various stories from wars to folk religions. ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/18-fiesta-bocaue-river-pintados.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/17-tillykke-glueckwuensche-di-course-pb-too.html Thu, 02 Jul 2009 05:15:22 GMT Great job on DI and PB too! So, this is a spin off from your initial efforts... I believe and agree with The Dane, in time, PB will lead them all. Great job on DI and PB too!

So, this is a spin off from your initial efforts... I believe and agree with The Dane, in time, PB will lead them all. ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/17-tillykke-glueckwuensche-di-course-pb-too.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/16-give-thought-subok-lang.html Wed, 01 Jul 2009 03:01:47 GMT Bago tayo mag-ipon at gumasta para sa byahe sa labas ng bansa , subukan nyo munang ikutin at pasyalan ang ating bayan. Di naman kailangan malaki ang... Bago tayo mag-ipon at gumasta para sa byahe sa labas ng bansa , subukan nyo munang ikutin at pasyalan ang ating bayan. Di naman kailangan malaki ang budget, nasa timing ang susi ng bakasyon.

Naglista ako ng ilang mahahalagang paalala:

1. Magbook ng ticket habang malayo pa ang byahe para makamura, mas mainam kung promo ang makukuha nyong ticket. Marami nang budget airline ditto sa atin ngayon gaya halimbawa ng Cebu Pacific, PAL Express, Zest at Air Philippines.

2. Pumili lang ng simpleng hotel o tirahan sa lugar na “safe” na kumportableng kama , kabinet, tukador, malinis na palikuran at liguan, telebisyon (opsyonal ito). Magtanong ng mga freebies , alamin agad kung kasama na sa bill ang almusal at sundo at hatid sa paliparan.

3. Pag-aralan ang mapa ng lugar na pupuntahan, alamin ang mga bagay bagay tungkol sa lugar, tulad halimbawa ng salita, kultura, relihiyon, pananamit etc.

4. Magplano ng budget para sa byahe at sikaping masunod ito.

ganon lang !....subok lang! ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/16-give-thought-subok-lang.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/15-trial-do-you-know-400-years.html Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:54:03 GMT The Philippines and the Filpino culture is so unique because we spent roughly 400 years in the Convent (or under Spain), 40 years in Hollywood... The Philippines and the Filpino culture is so unique because we spent roughly

400 years in the Convent (or under Spain),
40 years in Hollywood (or under the USA),
4 years in a Concentration Camp (or under Japan)
20 years of oligarchic rule (1946-1966, pre-Marcos),
20 years of “strong state” (1966-1986, the Marcos times) and
20 years of fumbling at avoiding the wrong path while not quite finding the right way.

Extracted from “THE SOCIAL DEMOCRATIC IDEA OF LAND REFORM AND INDUSTRIALIZATION” by Charles Avila ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/15-trial-do-you-know-400-years.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/14-do-you-know.html Sun, 28 Jun 2009 03:07:11 GMT The Philippines and the Filpino culture is so unique because we spent roughly *400 years *in the Convent (or under Spain), *40 years* in... The Philippines and the Filpino culture is so unique because we spent roughly

400 years in the Convent (or under Spain),
40 years in Hollywood (or under the USA),
4 years in a Concentration Camp (or under Japan)
20 years of oligarchic rule (1946-1966, pre-Marcos),
20 years of “strong state” (1966-1986, the Marcos times) and
20 years of fumbling at avoiding the wrong path while not quite finding the right way.

Extracted from “THE SOCIAL DEMOCRATIC IDEA OF LAND REFORM AND INDUSTRIALIZATION” by Charles Avila ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/14-do-you-know.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/13-tak-gracie-grazie-bedankt-merci.html Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:07:41 GMT I'd like to thank the academy for giving me the Oscars, also thanks to xxx for my gown and yyy for my makeup...hehe!

Thanks for the recognition, Pilipino po ako!

Please watch out for my future posts, I'm still trying to recall each of my travel/s, I will maintain posting based on 1st had experiences, my own but I can't always provide photos for one reason or another. Rest assured that I will continue to provide useful posts (and replies) to this site and if you wish to help promote the Philippine travel and tourism in the right perspective, feel free to join our group -The SENTINELS.

Salamat po! ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/13-tak-gracie-grazie-bedankt-merci.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/rhoody/12-june-25-captured-my-house.html Thu, 25 Jun 2009 23:17:25 GMT sus talaga... I stepped in a hole yesterday and twisted my ankle. It looks wild and I can't walk. guess I am captured the next couple of days here in my house. :mad:

I try to keep my bad mood of the board. Have a great friday and weekend to all.

cheer

Rhoody ]]> Rhoody http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/rhoody/12-june-25-captured-my-house.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/asianturista/11-visit-pagsanjan-laguna.html Thu, 25 Jun 2009 13:32:29 GMT Pagsanjan in the province of Laguna once served as the seat of power of the Philippines. Although it was short-lived the town has retained its... Pagsanjan in the province of Laguna once served as the seat of power of the Philippines. Although it was short-lived the town has retained its allure--being rustic and idyllic.
The church is an attraction itself. But don't be misled. There is no such thing as Pagsanjan Falls. The falls is found in a nearby town, not Pagsanjan. But because an American writer in the 1900s used Pagsanjan as a jump-off place to the falls, he called in Pagsanjan Falls. Up to this day the name stuck. Actually it is called Magdapo Falls. Although barangay Magdapo is on the other side of the river that separates Pagsanjan from the nearby town, Pagsanjan claims a part of the barangay as its own.
But just the same visit Pagsanjan, particularly around April during the Bangkero festival.
I once covered the festival with my daughter for the Philippines Free Press and a Seoul-based online newsmagazine, OnmyNews International. ]]> asianturista http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/asianturista/11-visit-pagsanjan-laguna.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/10-tips-fellow-philippine-passport-holders.html Thu, 25 Jun 2009 02:40:37 GMT In order to avoid any rush, I decided to renew my passport beforehand. The actual cost for renewal is PhP 650 ( P500 for ordinary passport renewal... In order to avoid any rush, I decided to renew my passport beforehand. The actual cost for renewal is PhP 650 ( P500 for ordinary passport renewal and P150 for ID picture taken in the premise of DFA- Libertad St, Pasay City). An additional P250 will be charged if you opt to have it released in half the time, some call it express.

Avoid the fixers outside the DFA compound, they’ll elude you and you’ll end up paying for everything including a “not for sale” application form for P19/form, photo ID at PhP180, fee for using paste , fee for using stapler and stamp pad for fingerprinting.

Don’t forget to bring your current passport and photocopy of the first, last and pages containing last immigration stamps and Php650, avoid doing this on Mondays. For new applicants, better check Department of Foreign Affairs website first for the complete requirements for easy and orderly transaction.

Always check on your documents, when done, secure your official receipt (O.R.). It will serve as the claim stab finally come back on the schedule indicated in your OR to claim your passport. ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/10-tips-fellow-philippine-passport-holders.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/9-salamat-po-thanks-want-join.html Sun, 21 Jun 2009 23:08:46 GMT Magandang Umaga! (Good Morning) Thank you for checking my posts and blogs (despite the minor grammatical errors fom time to time :D), I hope you... Magandang Umaga! (Good Morning)

Thank you for checking my posts and blogs (despite the minor grammatical errors fom time to time :D), I hope you are enjoying and learning from it.

I just created a group , THE SENTINELS, intending to help promote Philippine travel and tourism in the right perspective. The group will share useful contributions rather than indulge in senseless criticism and arguments over nothing.

THE SENTINELS aim to correct the commonly wrong impression/s on the Philippines, the Filipina/Filipino and the Filipino Culture.

If you think that we are on the same endeavor, please join the group.

Salamat po! (Thanks) ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/9-salamat-po-thanks-want-join.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/8-what-i-did-my-quarantine.html Sun, 21 Jun 2009 05:24:18 GMT A bit off than my usual post. I completely agree with the reminder from WHO that we Filipinos must not over react with the AH1N1 scare. Simply... A bit off than my usual post.

I completely agree with the reminder from WHO that we Filipinos must not over react with the AH1N1 scare. Simply because the strain we have as of the moment is weak, in fact despite the hundreds of AH1N1 cases everyday , Philippines has no record of A H1N1 mortality I don't see why such reaction(or over reaction)

But of course,I also agree that we have to be cautious. remember we should listen to the authorities advice on how to avoid or manage these cases.
So I listened and followed what they said, in fact, I was on self-imposed quarantine when I joined this site. I went out of the country (via local budget airline) for a short visit to a cousin staying in a nearby country (stayed in her plot to avoid contaminated hotel and frequently washed my hands)


P.S. Same observation with Mr. Tourist Guide! we have blog in this site, it seem to be 'invisible' in the past days. ]]> smallbird http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/smallbird/8-what-i-did-my-quarantine.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/7-5-tips-pinoys-philippines.html Sat, 20 Jun 2009 08:08:25 GMT You want to befriend a Filipino or Filipina, or at least get along well with one? Here are surefire tips: 1. Learn our culture well, especially... You want to befriend a Filipino or Filipina, or at least get along well with one? Here are surefire tips:

1. Learn our culture well, especially how we value old-fashioned human relationships. When we hear locals and foreigners say "po" or "opo," we're so impressed!;)

2. We believe so much in "Do unto others as you want others to do to you." Hey, that's what Confucius said, some may say. No, that's what Christ said. The Philippines is, for the most part, Christian. :o

3. We're not comfortable with strangers who touch physically. Sometimes, we're not even comfy with friends or relatives being too physical. We like maintaining distance; not too far, though. For instance, with my female disciples in my bible studies, I never touch the ladies or girls physically, except when shaking hands to say hello or good bye. I'm close to them but I don't touch. And they and their friends love me for that. :)

Well, some may say, it's because you're Christians. Well, I say, the Philippines is Christian.:rolleyes:

4. With the men, they generally like guys who treat them as equals. Try talking to a taho or balot vendor respectfully and you'd see plainly how he likes it so much. I address them as "bro" or "sir.":cool:

I always address security guards and waiters as "sir" or "bro." You'd see that they would be delightedly astonished. When they see a formal-looking guy like me (I look like a doctor or a company director in person), with white hair and deep voice, calling them "sir" politely, they are visibly uplifted, and they love you for it. The next time you come around, they'll remember you and serve you well.:cool:

5. We love people whom we see take special interest in harnessing mutual respect. For some reason. we like foreigners so much, especially Americans (as a former communist activist, I heard it was about this thing called colonialism). :mad:

But the truth is (now that I have white hair I have more wisdom), when we Pinoys and Pinays see how anyone loves fighting for mutual rights and dignity, we so easily fall in love with them. This explains the "Hey Joe!" craze right after World War II. We were so delighted with the partnership for such cause. :) ]]> tourist guide http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/7-5-tips-pinoys-philippines.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/6-part-quezon-city-once-tandang-sora-country.html Fri, 19 Jun 2009 04:25:30 GMT Back in the 1700s when Quezon city was totally unheard of, there grew up a rustic girl who would later be a great leader in Philippine History,... Back in the 1700s when Quezon city was totally unheard of, there grew up a rustic girl who would later be a great leader in Philippine History, particularly in the Katipunan movement back in the 1800s. She grew up in that portion of the low hills now known as Project 8 in Quezon City. Later, when she was old, she became the grand old lady of the revolution, known to Katipuneros as "Tandang Sora."

Her life was totaly dedicated to seeing the Philippines free and soveriegn.

Project 8 was a territoty where Spanish conquistadores were banned. It was Tandang Sora country, in a sense. A lot of Katipuneros were said to frequent the place, bringing wounded rebels, ever ready for enemy engagement. A historic event, the Cry of Pugad Lawin, happened in the vicinity now known as Project 8. The event marked an angry saga in the history of Philippine Revoltuion.

The remains of Melchora Aquino, or Tandang Sora, are now in Himlayang Pilipino in a shrine dedicated to her. It's near Visayas Avenue along Tandang Sora Avenue at the back of Project 8.

A great part of Project 8 today is Barangay Bahay Toro. The name is said to have been originated in the days of Tandang Sora. So were Banlat and Pugad Lawin. I hope the barangay captains of these barangays would make an effort to honor this great daughter of Project 8 who bravely fought for national freedom, aside from her Himlayang Pilipino shrine. Most Project 8 residents don't know that she once walked the grounds of their locality. ]]> tourist guide http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/6-part-quezon-city-once-tandang-sora-country.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/5-gsis-village-super-palengke.html Thu, 18 Jun 2009 04:23:54 GMT It used to be a public market with a public high school on top when I was a kid. We called it UP or University of Palengke. After it burned down and... It used to be a public market with a public high school on top when I was a kid. We called it UP or University of Palengke. After it burned down and re-built in the early 1980s, it's been officially called Super Palengke.

It's super alright--because some TV afternoon soap opera episodes were shot there. It's a village market within an environ of makeshift market stalls or "talipapa." All around the market are side-street fruit stalls, so it has a bright, colorful surroundings.

It's located in the corner of Benefits and Grants Streets. Somewhere near there is my favorite barbershop, Don's Barbershop. My favorite barber there is Jun. He could be a tourist guide, too. He can tell you lots of stories about his province.

Around Super Palengke are shops and small offices, plus houses in the village. The market items are good, especially the fruits. There's a fruit vendor there with a cart-full of products staying on the corner of Benefits and Claims Street. I sometimes buy my bananas there.

If you're somewhere near SM City North-EDSA and looking for a wet market, just take a trike near SM and ask to be taken to Congressional Avenue. Then get a jeep there to Project 8 and ask to be dropped off at Super Palengke. ]]> tourist guide http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/5-gsis-village-super-palengke.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/rhoody/4-june-18-another-day-paradise.html Thu, 18 Jun 2009 03:25:36 GMT Well, I am sitting here at my desk while my friends are off to Apo Island for another day of great scuba diving. I look out of the window,blue... Well, I am sitting here at my desk while my friends are off to Apo Island for another day of great scuba diving.

I look out of the window,blue sky, hot, perfect waterconditions... sometimes I hate my job in front of the computer... :( ]]> Rhoody http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/rhoody/4-june-18-another-day-paradise.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/3-site-where-they-first-cried-balintawak.html Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:30:39 GMT We all know the Cry of Balintawak happened at the Interchange near Balintawak Market and Grace Park church. But you won't believe this.

One rainy afternoon while going to a bible study, I stumbled upon a neglected shrine somewhere on Kaingin Road. I was a college student then--and looked like Tom Cruise (what do you say to that, Palaboy?).

Anyway, I asked people around and they told me it was a shrine of the Cry of Balintawak. I reminded them the monument was at Grace Park. They told me, that was the traditional site. But the real site was the one I stumbled upon. It's probably 3 kilometers away from Balintawak.

All that's left of the shrine is a cooking earth pot. They transferred it to the premise of the Barangay Hall of Old Samson. If you happen to pass by there (at the intersection of Kaingin and Old Samson Roads, Balintawak, Quezon City) you'll see the old pot on top of a medium-size monument.

Why old pot? Beats me. How to get there? Take a bus along EDSA to Balintawak and get off at Kaingin or Royal. Any bus conductor should know the place. And once there, ask around for Pastor Choy. I'm pretty well known there. Just say Bresee, Pastor Choy, and then dock to avoid a punch. :D ]]> tourist guide http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/3-site-where-they-first-cried-balintawak.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/2-so-theres-blog-here.html Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:17:20 GMT I didn't know you could post your blogs here! Why didn't you guys tell me so? I could've made thousands of blogs by now! I'm a rabid blogger. In fact, I have a blog at blogger.

Anyway....

Have you tried to visit the Tandang Sora Shrine on Tandang Sora Avenue in Quezon City? Well, it's not much--it's where Tandang Sora used to hang out with Katipuneros, especially when the Spaniards were in hot pursuit. Tandang Sora was the Nightingale of the Katipunan. She nursed the wounded revolutionary soldiers.

If you go to her shrine, you'd see nothing special. To get there, simply ride a Project 8 jeep from Munoz Market and drop off on General Avenue. Then ask for directions from there.

Project 8 itself is historic. Lots of places there like Pugad Lawin and Bahay Toro have been existing since the Spaniards were here--probably since the late 1700s.

Another place nearby, Banlat, has been there since the Spanish times.

A better Tandang Sora Shrine can be seen in Himlayang Pilipino. To go there, you take Tandang Sora Avenue going to UP Diliman and turn to an inner road through subdivisions. A hint is, when you're in the vicinity of Visayas Avenue, ask bystanders for direction. You won't miss it. You can have a family picnic at Himlayang Pilipino. ]]> tourist guide http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/tourist-guide/2-so-theres-blog-here.html http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/rhoody/1-june-17-dumaguete.html Tue, 16 Jun 2009 22:27:32 GMT rhoody is recovering slowly. The Dane and Island Hopper were here in Dumaguete to make me exceeding my limits. I am running through my daily... rhoody is recovering slowly. The Dane and Island Hopper were here in Dumaguete to make me exceeding my limits.

I am running through my daily routine and getting ready. The next two students are ready to become advanced divers.

I am sure there will be a day in the next few years where I can really relax. ]]> Rhoody http://www.philippinesboard.com/forum/blogs/rhoody/1-june-17-dumaguete.html