PheonixMatrix twenty-o-nine

 Ronelo S Ladiao

(published in itravel Philippines Oct-Nov 2009 issue)

Beyond eternal smiles, quaint cultural wealth, and modern trailblazing progress of Negros Occidental’s royal city, Bacolod remains unwavering to fortify its momentum. The city’s inspiring rise-from-the-ashes two decades ago from sugar industry depression and the people’s unrelenting passion for life-zest fuelled the reveries of one visionary man, a public servant who serves tirelessly and wholeheartedly in the name of sincere governance—mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia.

Calling it may seem, Evelio Leonardia who was born on 10 July 1952 to a middle-class couple Jose Tulo Leonardia, Sr and Ester Ramos Leonardia, the youngest boy of nine siblings was destined to become a remarkable public servant in a city dominated by affluent political clans in the past. When he was a boy, his dreams and reveries were centred in reaching out to other people amidst his young age. His hidden brilliance and wit were not fully noticed by most of his friends even after graduating from high school in La Consolación College in Bacolod. But when he pursued and finished a degree in commerce at the University of Saint La Salle, he graduated cum laude in 1973. His innate leadership qualities paired with passion and idealism led him to earn a silver certificate for leadership in college. Taking his reveries by heart, he pursued law school and graduated with leadership award from the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos in 1979. That same year, he passed the bar examination by the Supreme Court of the Philippines with an 81.90% rating.

Although an eligible lawyer and real estate broker, mayor Leonardia embraced his early initiation for public service as Department of Tourism Negros Occidental Provincial Field Coordinator for two decades. His noteworthy service to uphold the tourism industry of Negros earned him the admiration of his colleagues. Then, his pathway as a public servant unfolds when he decided to run and victoriously won as the highest voted councillor of Bacolod in 1988. In 1992, he became vice mayor and confidently earned the sympathy of the people to elect him as Bacolod City mayor in 1995. His re-election as Bacolod City mayor was seen flawlessly in 2004 and he won another term in 2007.

As a mayor of the masses, a dynamic political icon, and gifted public servant, mayor Leonardia guided the city Bacolod to be seen and admired not only by the Filipino nation but by foreign countries for their world-class tourism industry and achievements. On 17 December 1997, Bacolod was recognised by former president Fidel Ramos for the first time as the “Cleanest and Greenest” highly urbanised city in the Philippines. His passion for the city’s cultural wealth led him to become the founding president of Masskara Foundation, Inc  in 1983 and paved way for the development of two more major festivals—Bacolaodiat and Chicken Inasal this year. Under his terms, Bacolod was also declared by the Department of Budget and Management as the “Best Financially Managed City in the Visayas” and declared by the Progressive Alliance of Citizens for Democracy (PACD) with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) as “Most Outstanding City” twice. His desire to make education reachable to poor but deserving youth led him to create the Bacolod City College. Bacolod was further cited as “Most Business Friendly City” in 2006 and 2007, and “Child-Friendly City” for several times and received Ambassador City for Peace award, regional tourism excellence award, and countless recognition worth admiring for.

But the highlight of mayor Leonardia’s success to transform Bacolod from a once sleepy city into a glittering tourism and business-friendly destination is the completion of the stunning new Government Centre, influx of major BPO call centre companies, foreign IT businesses, and the addition of more impressive shopping malls such as the iconic SM Bacolod City and 888 China Town. Presently, he holds the post as national vice chairman of the League of Cities of the Philippines.         

Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia takes his selfless public service more than a career or vocation. He takes and embraces it as if it is the greatest expression of his innate sincerity; his beautiful intentions for the people of Bacolod who he believes are worth fighting for. Perhaps, his calling as a public servant represent his people’s meaningful festival of colourful masks—risk-takers, survivors, and optimistic amidst the countless trials in life. His people’s eternal smile and his radiant smile can be compared to a dawn in the horizon holding a promise that beautiful reveries do come true.  But behind his soaring success, his strongest inspiration and fuel for passion came from his loving wife, Elsa Fuentes Leonardia and his children—Evelio Jose, Jr and Loren Kara. 

Then in a surprising twist of fate one afternoon, this writer was given a chance to chat and unmasked the reveries of Bacolod’s inspiring public servant who made me smile with his witty thoughts and valiant visions….

 Who is the real Evelio Leonardia as a family man?

My family comes first in everything that I do aside from my duties as a public servant. For me, the most important relationship that I need to strengthen first is with my family then my colleagues and the people of Bacolod who I consider as my extended family.   

 What inspired you to become a public servant?

It was ten years ago, one time, I was in New York for a convention and one of my high school friends told me that it was unbelievable that I became a politician. But I did not have any concrete explanation because I didn’t come from any political clan in Bacolod. In a sense, I was inspired to become a politician because I had a good upbringing and religious parents who believe in the importance of good education. We were a typical Filipino family and I was the youngest of nine siblings. My dynamic involvements in student leadership and extra-curricular activities in school proved that I have the passion as a leader. When I graduated from college, my brothers and sisters came up with an amount to give me a present. It was a 120-peso wrist watch which I am wearing even today. I only wear it on special occasions and all the Manny Pacquiao-fights that I attend here and abroad. But the essence about this watch is about my family, our unity, and the moral values I learned from home that inspired me to serve the people of Bacolod wholeheartedly like my own extended family.

 When you travel, can you please mention the most important stuff you don’t miss to bring?

Well, it depends. We’re not talking about passport I suppose (laughs). There’s no particular stuff— just plain necessity during my travels. But I as a public servant, since I was a councillor until I became a mayor, I never spent any single cent of the Bacolod City government money for my travels abroad except here in the Philippines. Every travel that I had abroad came from my own expense. Even my attendance to Manny’s [Pacquiao] fights came from his pocket which proved that Manny is really generous to his closest friends.

Can you share with us your thoughts and feelings as one of Manny Pacquiao’s closest friends?

Well, it came out as an unexpected surprise. A few years ago, when Manny visited Bacolod in time for Masskara Festival, we invited him to join in a motorcade. Although he was hesitant about the invitation at first because he came here to relax, he was overwhelmed by the warm welcome of the people during the motorcade. Thus, we proclaimed him as Bacolod’s adopted son. There was one occasion that he requested me to hold his championship belt on the ring before his boxing match here in the Philippines. Although from the very start, a lot of people were discouraging me—but I don’t mind about it because I can see in his eyes the sincerity of his friendship and the inspiration he gives to our countrymen.  And besides, it is an honour for my part and I don’t want to disappoint Manny. Since then I was holding his belt wherever his boxing fight may be. Moreover, every time Manny holds a mass before his big fight, I also read the first reading of the gospel during the mass. Manny would even later emphasise in his public speech that it is his own choice to let me hold his belt and that he would even claim my presence as a good luck charm during his boxing fights and magnet for his victories. I am proud of Manny’s achievement and it gives me an incomparable sense of pride as a Filipino.

Since you’re close to Manny and a sports fan as well, can share with us your sporty side?

 When I open a newspaper and after scanning the front page, I go directly to the sports page. This simply shows my passion for any kind of sports not only boxing. In high school, I would play for our intramural basketball team. When I was working at a bank, I also played bowling and earned some awards out of that hobby.

Amidst your busy schedule, what do you do to stay physically fit and healthy?

Although I don’t really have a regular exercise, still I move round a lot as a public servant. And for me that’s a form of exercise in my part. Whenever I have free time I try to have an in-house exercise.

As a well-travelled man, is there any tourism destination or country you still dream to visit one of these days?

You know, I feel that I’ve travelled well enough. I’ve been to places like Moscow in Russia, Buenos Aires in Argentina, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, several European countries, USA, and other parts of Asia. But still there are other places or countries that I’ve never been to like Singapore and Australia. But the most important thing when I travel is I want to be with my family. The time I spent together with them were precious and memorable.

What makes Bacolod a must-visit tourism destination in the Philippines?

I must say that Bacolod City is fast becoming a festival centre of the Philippines. We are now a popular city with three major festivals such as the Masskara, the Bacolaodiat, and the Chicken Inasal. Hopefully we could come up with another festival so that we could have one festival every quarter. The Masskara Festival was given recognitions for tourism excellence and won countless awards. Bacolod’s tourism is steadily reaching its full momentum visible through the increasing influx of tourists. A major increase in hotel rooms was seen in the past years that gave Bacolod the capacity to accommodate more visitors than any other cities in the West Visayas. One thing for sure about our hotel industry is that it has accelerated its growth together. Plus the love of the Bacolod people for the good life, revelry, and resilience resulted to a world-class accommodation like no other. Prospects for the convention market are also bright and thousands of organisations are set to convene in Bacolod in the coming years. The Bacolod people’s hospitable nature is another factor why tourists and investors are at ease in staying in Bacolod. When it comes to entertainment, food, and other leisure hubs, Bacolod offers more options for visitors these days.

Can you share with us your most important visions and reveries for Bacolod?

Ever since I became a public servant, it has been my dream and vision that Bacolod would become a modern urban centre where people can put up their businesses and thrive, where they can have a secure and peaceful life, where they can have an equal opportunity for education and stable employment. To achieve these dreams, we should be able to build competent and honest government machinery capable of delivering effective basic service to the people. I also envisage strengthening the economic growth and development of Bacolod. One of the greatest realisations of my dreams for Bacolod right now is the new Government Centre wherein a lot of people are considering it as the most photographed landmark in the region. Moreover, infrastructure projects are major priority of the city to cope with the challenges of globalisation and the continuous influx of major BPO or call centre companies in Bacolod. The creation of Bacolod City College is another catalyst of change because it has given poor but deserving students the access to quality tertiary education. Of course, Bacolod has been a consistent recipient of the “Most Business Friendly City” award in the country.

What are the unique characteristics of the Bacolod people that make them capable to face the challenges of globalisation?

The Bacolod people are survivors and risk takers by nature. They’ve been through a lot of challenges in the past and even our Masskara Festival was born during the time that the sugar industry was in its depressing period.  The Masskara Festival represents the fighting spirit and the resiliency of the Bacolod people. The Masskara signifies our passion for the revelry and optimism.

With the passing of former president Cory Aquino, what do you think is the best way we can preserve her legacy of democracy?

I believe democracy is here is to stay. I doubt there will be another Martial Law after the Filipinos suffered a lot after losing their democracy for two decades. We learned that through unity, People Power exists in each of us. Everybody needs to be vigilant and contribute something for the greater good.     

What are the good qualities of an effective public servant?

First of all, you have to be committed and you can only commit when you are sincere. You have to be patient as well. Although you cannot please everybody, there’s no other way in the end but to decide on what is right. Most of all, you should learn to love your job. Public servants should think about their calling as more than a vocation but a real passion. Being called for public service and being a mayor of our city is the highest gift I receive from the people I deserve to serve sincerely.

As they say what is essential is invisible to the naked eye, therefore it is the sense of fulfilment that inspired me to fulfil my job wholeheartedly.

Ronelo S Ladiao

(published in itravel Philippines Oct-Nov 2009 issue)

In the continuous soar of Passi City towards greater heights for progress and cultural awakening, its passionate leader, mayor Elyzer Chavez tirelessly pursues his visions.  A native of Passi City and a son of a hardworking couple who imbued him with sincerity and ethical upbringing—Silverio Panes Chavez and Caridad Castellano Chavez—Elyzer seems to have a calling to become a leader at his younger age. He used to be active in various activities in the community and imbued good example to people round him. After graduating from high school and pursuing university, he remained dedicated in taking part in different socio-civic organisations and projects.

Armed with good intentions and reputation, he tried his luck in politics. He was victoriously elected as a councillor of Passi City on 1 July 1995. Proving more of his dedication and commitment for sincere public service, he was reëlected as councilor once again on 1 January 1997. His aspiration to serve for the third term as Passi City’s councilor was fulfilled on 1 July 1998. Highlights of his outstanding service as councillor were citation as Outstanding City Councillor of Year and Public Servant of the New Millennium by Media Excellence Award for Progress given on 9 September 2000 in a ceremony held at the Manila Hotel.  Two years later, he was again recognised as Outstanding City Councillor-Lifetime Achievement Award by Gawad International, Inc on 27 October 2002.

Aiming to continue his visions to serve the people of Passi City, he was elected as mayor on 1 July 2004. With the city’s flourishing tourism potential through its popular Pintados Festival gaining interest from both local and foreign tourists, mayor Chavez gave his full support to strengthen the cultural aspect of Passi City. His effort paved way for more elaborate and colourful presentations of Pintados that led to its victory as champion in the Aliwan Festival competition in 2005. He never gets tired inspiring the people of Passi City to move forward and work together, championing the city’s best interests for economic progress.  In fact, one of his major goals is to establish a city college for the youth who he believes deserve free education. His leadership exemplifies honesty and good governance, directed to provide better employment opportunities to the people.

Amidst the pressures of public service, he draws his inner strength and inspiration from his wife, Melinda Garcia Chavez. As a father, he nurtures his relationship with his children—Mark Elyzer, Angelo, and Lyka—with passion to be of service to other people. Being a responsible father to his family, he transcends his values and outlook in life with his constituents and the people of Passi City.

“As a public servant my goals are directly focussed on the betterment of the people and for the progress of Passi City,” he said with sincerity. People can even approach him any time of the day whenever they need his service. “I consider everyone in this city as part of my extended family since they are the ones who entrusted me to lead them,” he quipped.

When asked about his significant plans for the tourism industry of Passi City, he has these bright plans ahead: “I want Passi City to harness its tourism potential that would lead to employment opportunities for the people. I want Passi to be known as the pineapple capital of the Visayas with our vast plantations and develop eco-tourism with our unspoiled caves in Barangay Bacuranan where we plan to build an inland resort.”

With such bold words and sincerity to serve, mayor Chavez will surely prove that indeed, Passi City is a sweet city in the heart of Panay.   

(published in itravel Philippines Oct-Nov issue 2009)

 Camella Communities known for envisaging and realising grandiose lifestyle community has given the Filipinos a chance to own a home that exudes total comfort and leisure for decades. Camella’s beautiful reveries came to Negros, home of the Philippines’ sweetest people and those that wear “eternal smiles” just a year ago when it opened Camella Bacolod in July 2008.

 Grandiose in vision but reachable to every Negrense family, this 27-hectare residential subdivision strategically located in Cordova-Buri Road Barangay Mandalagan in Bacolod City is a stylised community that boasts with Italian architectural theme. Soon-to-be a metropolitan hub in Bacolod City with its strategic location near the best and biggest leisure destinations, Camella Bacolod takes pride of five model houses such as Lara, Marvela, Carmela, Drina, and Elaisa. The lush but modern-facetted community features significant amenities like sports facilities, jogging trails, residential enclaves, theme parks, and a clubhouse to cater flexible lifestyle.      

 Camella Communities known for changing the countryside with the widest geographical reach when it comes to residential developments and creating themed communities offers affordable and worry-free house-and-lot package. Camella’s aesthetically-appealing model houses and warm approach suited the impeccable taste of its homebuyers.

Negrenses now have a reason to smile and choose to own a home right in the heart of Bacolod City that assures a promising life ahead. Camella Bacolod is such a perfect promise of lifetime. Choose a new home and lifestyle now!

 For enquiries, ring Camella Communities on (034) 4352734  up to 36.   Its office is on the ground floor of Salvacion Centre down 27th Lacson Street . 

RONELO S LADIAO

(published in itravel Philippines Oct-Nov 2009 issue)

Most public servants rely on their competency based on their political affiliations and influence to convince people of their sincerity for public service. Oftentimes, public servants depend much on their striking idealism and bold promises that sadly remains unfulfilled. But not in the case of Senator Manuel “Manny” Villar who imbued his advocacy for public service with tangible results and tireless effort to bridge the gap between the wealthy and the poor Filipinos. After all, he has his own fair share of life’s hardship and sacrifice to fulfil his lifelong dream of serving this nation wholeheartedly divided by social issues and slow-paced economy.

Born on 13 December 1949 in Tondo (Manila) to a couple Manuel Montalban Villar, Sr, a government employee who hailed from Cabatuan (Iloilo) and Curita Bamba, a seafood dealer from Pampanga, Villar is the second child of nine children. While studying at Holy Child Catholic School, the young Villar showed dedication to overcome life’s challenges as a humble seafood vendor at Divisoria Market.

His struggle as a working student and shrimp trader at a wet market did not hinder Villar to finish his tertiary studies at the University of the Philippines. Equipped with a BA and MA in Business Administration, he tried his hand as an accountant for Sycip, Gorres, Velayo & Company (SGV & Co), the country’s biggest accounting firm. But shortly, he resigned to pursue his own seafood delivery business. His patience in every trial and problem besetting his business proved to be an inspiration for Villar to remain honest, optimistic, and serious in everything he does. His great ideas and ingenuity are his greatest strength to gain more experience in doing business, serving people truthfully.

When he briefly landed to another job as a financial analyst at the Private Development Corporation of the Philippines by selling World Bank loans, he promptly availed himself of a loan worth Php 10,000. With such initial capital, Villar purchased two reconditioned trucks and started his sand-and-gravel business in Las Piňas. With his visionary effort and dedication, he was able to establish his company, Camella and Palmera Homes as one of the largest development firms in Southeast Asia. Later on, under the Crown Asia brand name, he was able to sell low-end to high-end homes for the masses.  But behind his business acumen and success, Villar nurtured in his heart the reverie of giving affordable homes for the poverty-stricken Filipino people. He remained proud of his humble past wherein his family used to rent a small, ordinary room in Tondo.    

In 1986 the same year that Edsa People Power changed the political landscape of the Philippines, Villar was cited as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men. In 1989, he was awarded with Agora Award for Marketing Management, Most Outstanding CPA by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in 1990, and Most Outstanding Alumnus in 1991. 

Learning the lessons of his humble past and keeping the passion of reaching out to the Filipinos whom he shared his struggles with, he believed his unfading optimism would become a seed of inspiration. Thus, he tried his luck in politics with sincere heart and a dream of greater change. Villar was elected to the House of Representatives, representing the district of Las Piňas City (and later the district of Las Piňas City). He was chosen as Speaker of the House of Representative in 1998.   

His success in entering the Philippines Senate has been a daring pathway to earn the admiration of his countrymen since 2001 for his outstanding public service. He was chosen as Senate President Pro Tempore until 2003 and elected president of the Nacionalista Party in 2004. His exemplary achievements prompted the University of the Philippines to recognise him as its Most Distinguished Alumnus. On 24 July 2006, he was unanimously elected as Senate President by his fellow senators. Villar won reëlection to the Senate in 2007 and continued to serve as Senate President until 2008.  

Although he continues to serve the Filipino as a dynamic and golden-hearted Senator, Villar tried to remain sincere in his passion to serve. He continues to advocate programmes and projects using his own resources to alleviate poverty, injustice, and instill hope to a lot of Filipinos. He extends his generous hands to the less fortunate and continues to sow seeds of inspiration. He had proven to be a public servant of action and not of promises alone.

His profound inspiration also comes from his loving wife, Cynthia Villar, his two sons Paolo and Mark, and daughter Camille who has been supporting his advocacies.

Significantly, whatever path he might take to further his passion for sincere public service in the coming days, Villar never forgets his humble beginning as a boy who used to sell seafood at a wet market for a living and is destined to inspire a nation to stand up on its feet again. “Hope” seems to be a relevant word for Senator Manuel “Manny” Villar.     

(published in itravel Philippines July-August 2009 issue, www.itravelphilippines.com.ph)

Sometimes, I have this desire to satisfy my craving for the word “scrumptious.”
It was more than five years ago when I first set foot on a high-end bistro called The Promenade of Days Hotel Iloilo in The Atrium on Bonifacio Drive just across the Iloilo Provincial Capitol. Honestly speaking, those early years of my exploits as a newbie features writer for a local tabloid led me to discover a lot of fascinating destinations in Iloilo. Writing about the sprawling restaurants and bars in the city was indeed a fascinating delectation. The Promenade is no exception.

My first Promenade dining experience enticed my keenness on food writing. Irrevocably obvious, the culinary creations, serene ambience, and congenial staff are sheer elements of its success in capturing countless diners that made the bistro their regular habitué. Its international culinary connoisseur, food and beverage manager Rey Ponsaran has the knack for conceptualising unique, if not tastefully themed, gastronomic fare. A reason why it has established a word-of-mouth praises from food lovers who have a taste of Iloilo’s best.

This bistro is a hub of delectation for diners and their dining affinity. For one, diners can pick anything from the menu book and can expect something scrumptious. The Promenade buffets are tongue-pleasing, eye-catching theatrics of culinary parade that climaxes to a satisfying and fulfilling healthy feast. Salad bowls are freshly prepared, appetisers are succulent, main courses are mouth-watering, and desserts are simply a treat to one’s sweet tooth.

In lieu of its tradition for capturing the taste of food aficionados, The Promenade redefines its reputation as metropolitan Iloilo’s finest through its palate-pleaser buffets: daily Power Breakfast from 6 AM to 10 AM, “Indulge” Saturday dinner buffet from 6 AM to 10 PM, “Meshi” Japanese dinner buffet from 6 AM to 10 PM, and Las Paellas Spanish dinner buffet from 6 AM to 10 PM.

Every dining experience at The Promenade leaves a pinch to the heart, a distinct pull to the taste buds, and a desire to come back again.

So, I realise my first dining experience at The Promenade wasn’t the last. It feels and tastes like it’s always the first every time I follow my desire for the word “scrumptious.”

The Promenade is located in Days Hotel Iloilo in The Atrium on Bonifacio Drive— with telephone number (033) 3373297.

MASSKARA FESTIVAL AND INASAL FESTIVALBACOLOD CITY’S CULTURAL PILLARS

(published in itravel Philippines July-August 2009 issue, www.itravelphilippines.com.ph)

Being known as the Philippines’ “city of smiles,” Bacolod City remains steadfast to invigorate its flourishing tourism industry by preserving its past and embracing the visions for tomorrow.

As part of Negros Occidental province once known as the cradle of sugar industry in the early 19th century, Bacoloders conceptualised and created MassKara Festival in 1980 when the sugar industry weakened. Wearing multicoloured masks, beaded and colourfully designed costumes dancing to the lively Latin music—graceful Bacoloders dancers paraded the streets to celebrate life and abundance, and spread revelry throughout the city every third week of October. Such a grandiose festival came to fruition when the people and the government officials decided to create an annual event to uplift the hope of many due to the depression caused by the decline of sugar industry in the province. Since then, MassKara Festival has become a cultural tradition, a reminder of hope and inspiration amidst the social challenges that Bacolod City or the province of Negros Occidental has been struggling to overcome for the past almost three decades.

“MassKara” is a portmanteau of “mass” (people) and “kara” (mask)—which has close resemblance to the Mardi Gras of Brazil and other South American festivals. The famous festival has gone through notable progression and reinvention to intensify its concept of capturing the cultural passion of the Bacoloders and preserve its love for music, carousing, and celebrations. Participated every year by contesting groups coming from different barangays and private companies that deliver a kaleidoscopic display of grace, colours, and breathtaking performances, the festival has already made significant legacies and memoirs reflecting the flamboyant character of the people of Bacolod.
Preserving and harnessing the inclination of the Bacoloders in culinary arts, the government of Bacolod City spearheaded by its visionary leader, mayor Evelio Leonardia and past Bacolod mayor Jose Montalvo conceptualised the staging of the first Chicken Inasal Festival from 15 to 20 May this year. The weeklong festival highlighted the effort of the city government to make the Manokan Country as an emerging tourism destination where more than twenty chicken inasal stalls are located. During the opening ceremonies, Negros Occidental governor Isidro Zayco was the guest the speaker and honoured the laudable effort of dynamic personalities who catapulted Bacolod chicken inasal’s popularity.
Another captivating objective of the festival is to be included in the Guinness Book of World Record by staging the “largest barbeque grill in the world” held at SM City Bacolod North Wing vacant lot. The newly established festival targeted one whole chicken per foot or an estimated 18,000 chicken with 800 to 1,000 sacks of charcoal and 72,000 barbecue sticks facilitated by 20, 000 volunteers. The larger-than-life chicken grill event happened on 19 May which was attended by thousands of spectators both local and foreign tourists wanting to taste the world famous flavour of Bacolod chicken inasal that has captured the palate of the Filipinos throughout the country.
Time already proved how far the people of Bacolod have put their city in the map as one of the best tourism destinations in the Philippines. I guess their charm and luck lie in character to wear eternal smiles.

INSPIRED TO TRAVEL
(itravel Philippines July-August 2009 issue)I am inspired with life. The traveller within me is driven to explore the horizon, the possibilities, and realisation of my dreams that springs from the deepest depths of my soul. I have this inner desire to share, to unravel the concealed wealth and wonders of a world around me through my genuine writings. Sometimes we desire for those that are not meant for us and end up losing our true identity along the way.

But in my altruistic and patient journey on a rugged road to nowhere, I found myself embracing something relevant: what makes us happy and inspired to live a contented life is treasuring what we truly have right from the start. Happiness is just a simple riddle of the heart if we learn to simplify the meaning of reality.

Travelling is a passion for me. I have always desired to convey my travels through my gift to write. For me, creativity as a writer is an instinct and the weight of my writings is an inner intuition. But still, at the back of my head, I have this belief that a “writer’s life” is a fate, an inevitable destiny to traverse.

Founding the first and unique magazine—i travel Philippines— is an incorporation of fresh, vibrant, and forceful ideas of passionate writers. We have the mutual desire to uphold our own cultural heritage, empower the tourism industry, bring back the pride as Filipinos in every piece that we write, and inked by the blood of our heart.

Embracing such selfless destiny of advocating the essence and significance of tourism industry, the sage writers behind this trailblazing magazine breathes with optimism and beautiful intentions. Tourism encompasses not only those places and destinations that grace the pages of books and magazines, landmarks and historical sites that mesmerise tourists and travel enthusiasts. If we could somehow learn to open our heart and soul to the real, realistic milieu of what tourism stands for-then we will unearth and bring to light its truest quintessence.

Tourism is not just a social theory. Everything around us is intertwined to create the focal concept of tourism. From the warm greetings you show to a stranger along the way or the candid conversation you always have with your favourite talaba vendor, the way of life within our community, locality, or society are indeed fragments of the entire substance of tourism. Tourism should be classless and universal. Each of us, our cultural identity, and our sense of pride as optimistic people is a living force of tourism that determines a congruent impression: this country truly deserves to become a perfect destination.

Associate Editor Bombette Marin has proven his prolific vision and noble aspiration as a travel writer for many years. In fact, being a resourceful and brilliant writer, he remained tireless, truly dedicated to promote the west Visayan culture through his widely published articles in national broadsheets and magazines. In this issue, he unravels the ancient-old, hand-woven fabrics of Iloilo and the festive energy of Badiangan’s Panadayan festival. Renewing his vow for mother nature, he takes us on a nature-tripping mood to the unspoiled treasures of Ajuy and the elemental mood of Igbaras’s Tangyan Festival.

Roger Rueda always knew he has the knack for writing. As this magazine’s managing and articles editor, his far-out ideas and enthusiasm for British English invigorate the desire of the editorial team to be distinctive from other magazines. In fact, he has just published his second English grammar book entitled “Apple Grammar.” Meanwhile, his fondness for scenic sites and pristine wonders inspires him to provide helpful travel tips for travellers.

Features Editor Lourdes Jiz de Ortega, a prolific PR consultant from Manila, has remained as one of my best friends in writing throughout the years. Because of her desire to appreciate the significance of her home city as the centre of commerce and cultural wealth, she weaves an insightful article about Manila.

Unexpected addition in the editorial team is my shy and witty cousin, Jordainne
Patrick Longno. He lends his pop culture instinct to review selected CDs featuring various genre of music artists. Travel and photography enthusiast Noel de Leon is another addition to the magazine’s creative team. His artistry and passion shows in every picture he captures for the magazines’ articles. Mayor Jerry
Treňas, the true inspiration of every Ilonggo and the visionary leader that has put
Iloilo City in the limelight of yearning for the crown as another Queen-City-in-the making is finally expressing his heart and reveries in a special interview.

So much has been said and written about Boracay Island. But none can be far more fascinating with Canadian-born and international blogging sensation Brian Gorrell in his article as he unveils his early fondness and memories of the paradise island. Brian’s sincerity is delectable as his phraseology.

Our navigational compass brought us to the shores of majestic Cebu, this month’s cover story. We explore her hidden treasures and old-world charm. Orlando Janson Cajegas chronicled the Queen City of the South glittering light by night.

Travelling with a purpose can be inspirational. I bet it is substantial.

Enjoy reading i travel Philippines.

Postscript: Substancewise, no matter who we are and what we have in life, we are nothing without our ideas that spark from our passion. It is from this very end that defines what we are truly capable of giving back to God who has bestowed us with gifts to redefine life to its fullest purpose.

www.itravelphilippines.com.ph

Perfect Prom

When you attend a JS Prom, what comes in your mind? I’m serious. I’d really like to know.

Okay, maybe everyone here tonight including myself have the same thoughts about JS Prom—disco gid ni ya sigurado indi bala? But let me give you three reasons why you’re here tonight…or some sort of a guess, I should say…

One: You’re here because you want to show your classmates that you can strut your stuff, move your body gracefully and express yourself through dancing. In other words, you want to dance even if you’re not the best dancer.

Two: you’re here because you believe that your best friends or your secret crush might find you attractive tonight. Bottom line, you’re hoping to impress them.

Or three: you’re definitely here because you want get over your insecurities and prove to everyone else that you’re confident enough to be yourself. Let’s cut the chase, you want people to accept the fact that soon you’re going to be a lady or a gentleman.

 JS Prom is a turning point in your high school life. It is one of the most precious moments that you’ve been waiting for since you were in first year, isn’t it? This is the perfect time for you to come out of your protected shell and be given a chance to socialize with your fellow schoolmates, to establish rapport, camaraderie with your fellow juniors or seniors, to take responsibility of your actions, to develop yourself further and become someone that the whole world is waiting for.

But before we take deeper reflection and put everything into better perspective, let me tell about the cultural significance of JS Prom around the world.  In the United States and Canada, a prom, short for promenade, is a semi-formal dance held at the end of an academic year. Though smaller schools in the US or Canada hold “Proms” open for all students, the bigger schools have two exclusive events the “Junior Prom” and “Senior Prom”. And when these two events were combined, the Junior Class take the responsibility of organizing since they will be left behind when the Senior class will graduate.

The term “Prom” was derived from the late nineteenth century practice of a promenade ball. The end of year tradition stemmed from the graduation ball tradition. Common prom activities include dining, dancing, the crowning of a prom King and Queen, and socializing. Boys usually dress in black tie (a dinner jacket and bow tie), though any sort of formal wear can be worn. Traditionally, girls give boys matching boutonnières to be worn on their tuxedos or waistcoats. Girls traditionally wear formal gowns or dresses adorned with a corsage given to them by their dates.

Other European countries especially in United Kingdom, Proms is also known as Leaver’s Dinner or Dinner-dance. In Argetina and Chile it is called “fiestas de graduación” while “Fiesta de Promocion” is the term used in Peru held in prominent hotels and convention centers.  In Austria is it known as “Maturaball” (derived from the word “mature”).

Bailes de formatura or formal dance is the term referred to proms in Colombia and Brazil.In Germany, it is popularly known as Abi party or Abi ball derived from Abifeier or graduation certificate. In India, it is referred to as “farewell gathering”. In Italy, it is much known as Mak 100 because the event takes place 100 days before the graduation or Šimtadienis in Lithuana.

In Sweden, it is called as Studentbalen or Student Ball and in Turkey is connected with Graduation ball.

In the Philippines, it is popularly known as JS prom, a combined special event among Juniors class and Seniors class usually held in connection with Valentine’s month or February. Traditionally, JS prom is a formal ceremony as turning over of responsibility from the outgoing Seniors to the Juniors.

 And what are these responsibilities? Literally, it include the responsibility of the juniors to take care of the student body, to become good role models of the younger students and set a strong moral, academic and spiritual leadership that would fully develop their self-confidence. Likewise, the Juniors will also accept the challenge from the Seniors of giving honor and great achievements to their alma mater or school that became not only the center of wisdom and learning but as an institution that has close resemblance to their home. Thus, their ever-devoted and persevering teachers that stood out as the molders of their minds should be given outmost respect, a role that resembles their parents at home.

Likewise, JS Prom is an important event for young people because it is aimed to boost not only their self-confidence but develop social grace or the proper way to act on formal occasions in the society. Furthermore, this kind of social event introduce them to society as responsible, ethical and self-motivated individuals ready to accept their relevant social status. So, it feels like a debut or another step in the social life for students in any academic institution wherein they were given a chance to mingle, establish rapport, learn the value of camaraderie and socialize with their fellow youth on their own. Thus, it is appropriate to say that JS Prom is indeed a coming-of-age event for young people to discover the essence of sense and sensibility.             

On the lighter side of pop culture, Proms influenced the themes of various chick flicks or teen movies visually stating why it is important for teenagers to attend this kind of event before graduating in high school. Fashion continuously revives the elegance of formal attires such as gowns for girls or tuxedos among boys.

Unquestionably, JS prom is an event for the young hearts, a red letter day for young people who wanted to understand how it feels to share love and be loved. Every student looks forward to wait for the right time and attend their own JS Prom in high school. If you miss JS Prom, then you missed half of your high school life. For the boys, they say “Patience is a virtue”. Indeed it is true; JS prom is the perfect time for boys to appropriately ask or invite a girl for a dance. And every girl should be nice and accommodating since it is a proper social occasion. Likewise, boys should wait for their turn to dance with the girl they like. Now, if each one of you tonight can exemplify the proper ethics of socialization then that makes you the perfect gentleman and ladies of the occasion.

You see, doing a slow dance with the one you like or fond of during JS prom is not only an initial sign of expressing your emotion or feelings but a gesture of respect and a promise of lasting friendship. “Siyempre indi tanan nga ginainvite mo masaot sa tunga mangin potential girlfriend mo indi bala gentlemen?” Some of them might be your best friend or even your favorite teacher right? I’d like to point out that it’s all about a sense of respect and friendship. “Of course, lovely ladies dapat mangin open-minded kamo to accept these gentlemen for a dance since it is their social privilege to express how much they admire and respect you”.

On the other hand, I know that some of you who haven’t got over with their feeling of shyness or were thinking less about themselves would remain cold and hesitant to mingle or have fun tonight. Be realistic: JS prom is a once in a lifetime chance in high school to freely express yourself and be happy through socialization. Juniors, don’t even forget that you have the responsibility to become responsible Seniors next year who will accept the challenge of becoming effective role models and leaders to the lower years. Seniors, be strong and confident to make the last days of high school worth remembering. Remember that success cannot be measured by medals or wealth alone, significant success comes from your choice to use your heart in sowing seeds of hope to other people, touching their lives and making a difference in the society. Never ever forget your teachers who gave their whole heart in molding you to become the catalysts of change and goodwill. And definitely, if you let this chance slip away then you’ll gonna have a lot of hang-ups after high school. Believe me, I learned from the best teacher—they call it “experience”. But of course when the music starts to play tonight, every one of you should know your limitations especially with the concept of having fun right? But seriously, try to be happy and make this night the perfect JS Prom for yourself. Just let love lead the way…

Now, this is a personal advice to all the Juniors and Seniors:

We all want to have a perfect JS Prom right? Who would not wish for it? And if ever I would given a chance to become 16 again I would want it that way—a JS Prom that perfectly fit my expectations. But you know, I’ve come to realize something better tonight: There’s no such thing as perfect in life. Perfection is only a state of mind, a sort of “wishful thinking” and we can’t live forever in superficial thoughts. In my point of view, we were meant to truly enjoy life if we teach our hearts to accept reality and learn that people around us tonight, our schoolmates, classmates, best friends, crushes, parents, teachers and everyone else that filled our inner universe, the whole concept of the high school journey were there to help us realize that “happy memories” are far more lasting and important than anything else in this world. And if ever we look back a few years from now, we will have no regrets to make.

So cheer up, you don’t need to become somebody else to impress someone tonight. Be yourself, you‘re far more beautiful or handsome than you could ever think of. Just keep that radiant smile in your face because you’ve always been special deep down inside. Never mind if you can’t dance better than your cheerleader classmate. Just dance, leave your hesitations behind and grab someone straight to the dance floor. I’m sure the operator will play your favorite song tonight. You wouldn’t want to miss the chance to dance with someone that can magically hang stars in your infinite sky or make your heart skip a bit for a while. After all, Valentines month isn’t over yet, right?

This is now or never ladies and gentlemen. Tonight, take the chance to make happy memories that would last a lifetime.   Thank you, and good luck!      

This is a speech I wrote and read for the JS prom of Duenas General Comprehensive High School on Feb. 20, 2009 at Duenas Social Hall. I always have hope that my words would always inspire young people not to be afraid to love and fight for love.

Born free again

(A tribute to my grandfather)

When my Lolo, Alejandro Ladiao was born in May 3, 1920, the eldest of five siblings from Brgy. Cabudian, Duenas, Iloilo, his journey has began, a journey that would leave a mark of inspiration in each of us in our family. But before he walked the final road of his life three years ago, he always asked me to write his autobiography, his life story and when he’s gone in this world, I would read it in front of his family, relatives and friends. I usually told him “Lo, gusto ko ya tani kon isulat ko gid man ang istorya sang kabuhi mo…gusto ko handa na gid ang isip ko…pungkuan ta gid mayo kag istoryahan sa tama nga panahon”.  He would respond: “ti to ginasulat mo gani kabuhi sang iban nga tawo sa newspaper dapat  tani kon isulat mo gid man ako akon gid pinakanami ”.  Then he would laugh softly and continue reading the newspaper that he’s holding. I have no concrete response but a smile in my face and told myself that one day I will do it. I realized my Lolo is a deeply sentimental man… just like me. Way back in high school and even in college, I often asked myself where did I got my sentimental nature as a writer. Why do my writings bear mostly my deepest recesses and emotion? When I started to got myself involved in campus journalism and newspaper writing job, he would usually read my articles word-by-word or sometimes bother me with his unending questions about vocabulary. Later, I finally grasped the thought that indeed we have the same level of sentiments when it comes to expressing ourselves.

 But my Lolo is not a writer. He’s a humble carpenter who builds dreams with his hammer and saw. When he was a boy, my Lolo used to tell me that he had big dreams. With his undeniable wit and sensible thoughts, he used to tell me that he always got the admiration of his teachers and classmates in school. Though he doesn’t weave and play with words like me, he was gifted with numbers, a mathematician by heart. But hardship and poverty left him with no choice but to give up his quest to finish his studies and pursue Architecture or Engineering in order to support his family. At a very young age, he stood out as a breadwinner of the family. But behind the struggles of daily life, my Lolo kept several pages of his drawing plan about his dream house that he wanted to build someday, a specific dream that gave him inspiration to transcend such wonderful reverie to his children.

In the wake of World War II in 1940s, my Lolo who was in his late teen, he met my shy and soft-spoken Lola who was seven years younger than him. When Japanese invasion started to send ripples of fear in the country, Alejandro and Monserrat got married, the couple who became my beloved grandparents. When the war ended, they headed to the city to start building a happy family with nine children. Two of their eldest children died in their younger years and only seven of them were able to survive. Still plagued by poverty, my Lolo pursued his humble job as a freelance carpenter and construction worker while my Lola took care of the family. Though my Lolo became a disciplinarian and emphasized the importance of education as their chance to build a better life for his children, he never failed to build a happy home bounded by strong spiritual faith. He knew that his strongest shield is his faith in God.

 With his perseverance and patience amid his meager salary, he was able to send his children to school and taught them to help each other. One by one, his children finished their studies, earned their diploma and became professionals. But the road to success of his children was a tiring journey. There were stories of heart-touching sacrifices and inspiring struggles to pursue their dream. My Lolo used to tell me how his heart breaks deep inside every time he saw his children walked kilometers to go to school or let my Lola carry the burden of fitting his meager salary to the needs of the family. But as the story goes on, his strong faith in God assured him that indeed his children will succeed and fate was truly kind.

Then I was born, his first grandchild. My Lolo assumed his role as a loving grandfather. Then my bother and my cousins were also born. Like me, they were also loved equally by my Lolo as the extension of his dream and hope for the future. For him, we were his sunshine behind the dark clouds that tested his faith to see the brighter side of life. Maybe, it’s also true that when a father becomes a grandfather, his perspective about love deepen even more. He was a good grandfather to us. He was there for us in every step of the way and if ever we lose our way home, his love lead us back to his arms. I am most grateful for my Lolo for everything he did for us. He honestly taught me that money can’t buy everything in this world. But sincerity, forgiveness, contentment and happy memories can conquer every man’s inner universe. 

A month before my Lolo bid his fateful goodbye, I woke up one night surprisingly saw him finishing the drawing of his dream house. I remember him telling me about his drawings when he was a boy, a boy who was destined to become a humble carpenter and a loving family man. I watched him while sketching the final details of his dream house in recycled bond papers. All these years, he never gave up his dream to build a better home for us. And when I literally analyzed his dream… it doesn’t actually mean a big beautiful house that might worth million of pesos to build but instead a small simple home filled with love and happiness that cost nothing. Now I know, this is my lolo’s dream… his dream house is us, his family… Someday Lolo, we will build your dream house.    

For me, my Lolo was a great man. He is the greatest man I’ve ever known in this lifetime and if I might live five more lifetimes I couldn’t accomplished what he had sow, achieved and given for his family. His greatness transcended inspiration of passion and optimism in our family and those people who knew him closely. For me, I would love to remember my Lolo as a leader of the band. His words were capable of giving us wings and lift us up to a higher ground.  My Lolo is not afraid to cry when his heart breaks because he knew he was human enough to understand the matters of the heart. Sometimes, a man needs to cry not to show his vulnerabilities but to admit the existence of the heart. Whenever my Lolo goes he brought a piece of us that only he can return to its proper place and make us whole again. Likewise, he left us seeds of faith to God that if nurtured properly it would lead to an inspiring life. All my life, I never truly had a real father. And finally, fate made me realize that the father I was looking for was right there beside me, waiting for the warmth of my sweet embrace while extending his open arms. For us, his grandchildren, my Lolo was more than a father. He was more than a teacher, a mentor, a confidant, a friend and a best friend. When we were afraid he gave us strength, when we were alone he gave us a family, a home where we could rest our tired hearts. Now I know, my Lolo was a great man because his greatest possession in this lifetime is not worldly things but only his fragile heart, a heart that doesn’t stop loving his family unconditionally.

I know that I didn’t kept my promise to my Lolo to write his life’s story and print it in a newspaper for he is gone to follow a journey that never comes back to us but a road that leads to eternity. The greatest fan of my lonely writings as a sentimental writer had left for good when he took his last breathe in the morning of December 28, 2008 at St. Paul Hospital. It was a peaceful sleep with an eternal smile on his face knowing that his fragile heart led him to fulfill his destiny for our family. Now, no one will bother me with questions about vocabulary and read my writings word-by-word. But I guess, it’s better this way because I understand what God wants me to do—to write my Lolo’s life story through the ways of the heart.    

Thank you, Lolo Andong for everything. You were born free again…

The BEQUEST makes history

By Ronelo Ladiao

Another historical event was made in Iloilo. The BEQUEST: Origin of
Dinagyang, the very-first Ilonggo animated short film created by Kuris
Animation Unlimited in collaboration with Ilongguhit Animators
successfully held a one-night screening at SM Cinema 7 last January 25,
2008, 7PM.

More than 500 excited Ilonggo spectators showed positive response
trooped at the region’s ultimate shopping and entertainment
destination, SM City Iloilo to see The BEQUEST for the first time. The
20-minute 2D and 3D format animated short film done in 2 months with
more than 35,000 drawings by 18 animators was based in the story
concept of Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Director, Benito Jimena. The
breakthrough animated film was directed by Ilonggo animators such as
Ronelo Ladiao, Bryan Jandonero, Marx Ydroy Silva and Diosdado Aguilar,
Jr. in collaboration with their animation instructor, Karlo Sira.
Significant guests of the event were TESDA-Iloilo Director, Lorena
Yunque, WVCST ICT Coordinator, Roly Gambol and Invictus Executive
Director, Jigger Lotoza.

The BEQUEST is a magnificent story about a street child named Niňo
who befriended the parish priest of San Jose Church days before the
Dinagyang Festival. In their conversation, the Priest retold three
separate historical events (Barter of Panay, Baptism of Filipinos for
Christianity in 1521 and The Bequest or the arrival of Sto. Niňo de
Cebu in Iloilo in 1968) to which the true religio-cultural origin of
Dinagyang Festival came from.

Prior the film screening, a one-week animation exhibit entitled
“Dinagyamation” from January 14-20 was held at SM City Iloilo lower
ground floor. The animators are proud products of PGMA-Training for
Work Scholarship Program implemented by Technical Education and Skills
Development Authority (TESDA) and Western Visayas College of Science
and Technology (WVCST).

Due to consistent demand from various social sectors and students,
The BEQUEST will have another 3-day showing on February 22-25 at WVCST
EDtech Center. Tickets are sold for only P10. For further inquiries and
ticket reservations, you can email the animators at kurisanimators@yahoo.com or text at 09184822338.

As usual, this unique event is presented by WVCST, TESDA, SM City
Iloilo, Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation, Inc., Invictus, SM Cinema, The
Daily Guardian, GMA TV-6, Ilonggo Producer’s Association and Deco’s
Batchoy. Co-presented by Mang Inasal, Waffletime, Crest Spa Aroma,
Coffeebreak, Pepsi, Picture City, RMN-Iloilo with special thanks to
Panorama Printing Press, Personalize Expression, Salog Spa, Crest Café
and Salon, Redwood Event Management and News Express.