Largest Pearl in the World

The “Pearl of Lao-Tzu” is the the world’s largest pearl in a giant Tridacna (mollusk). It weighs 14 pounds and measures 9 1/2 inches long and 5 1/2 inches in diameter. It was reportedly collected by a Filipino pearl diver named Etem, on May 7, 1934, at Palawan Island, Philippines. At one time it belonged to Wilburn Dowell Cobb, who allegedly received it as a gift from a chieftan of Palawan after having saved the life of his son. On May 15, 1980, Cobb’s heirs sold it at auction to Peter Hofman, a jeweler from Beverly Hills, California, for US $200,000. In 1966, it was valued at $3.5 million. According to te Guiness Book of Records, the San Francisco Gem Laboratory has valuated it at US $40-42 million. It is believed to be 600 years old.

Dingdong Dantes only Pinoy in World’s Sexiest List

America’s Los Angeles-based E! Entertainment Television cited our very own Dingdong Dantes as one of its Top 25 Sexiest Men of the World.

E! said a television special featuring the 25 hottest males from around the world which includes Dingdong is going to be produced by E!. Among those in the list is soccer superstar David Beckham from Great Britain.

Dingdong said, “never in my wildest dreams ko naisip na mapapasama ako dito. Na-appreciate ko siya and much more that napabilang ako sa beinte-singkong taong ‘yon, so isang karangalan sa akin ‘yon.”

What does he feel now that so many blessings had come his way? “I’m very thankful talaga. Kumbaga, minamahal ko talaga ang ginagawa ko so that’s why siguro it loves me back,” a thankful Dingdong replied.

On Wednesday, August 27, Dingdong and Marian will stage a birthday concert billed as Let’s Celebrate: The Marian-Dingdong Birthday Blowout at the Araneta Coliseum.

Dingdong and Marian are currently starring in GMA 7’s latest blockbuster teleserye Dyesebel directed by Joyce Bernal.

Source: http://goodnewspilipinas.com/wp/?p=2615

Travel to Philippines

Philippines is one of the best vacation spot in Asia. It offers a lot of natural resources and magnificent places to visit. It is a large archipelago full of hidden beauty.

One of the famous tourist spots here in the Philippines is the Tubbataha Reefs.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. Rising from the volcanic depths of the Sulu Sea in the western Philippines, these magnificent atolls encompass an astonishing diversity of marine life.

The park is an underwater sanctuary where nature can thrive. Tubbataha is the Philippines’ only marine natural Park and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a place of global importance, being preserved for generations to come.

Amazing right? That’s paradise underwater.

So why don’t you just start packing up your things. Prepare your luggage and buy different travel accessories for a once in a life time vacation!! I recommend that you visit the Philippines famous Tubbataha Reefs. I also recommend this Luggage Store to buy for a new designer luggage needed for your vacation.  You can buy cheap and affordable luggage bags there. The shipping is free on orders over $99 within the  United States. You can also select various ways to order and pay!

Here is the screenshot of this site that offers travel accessories, luggage bags and other goods needed for your ultimate vacation.

Festivals and Fiestas

Here are the list of Fiestas that we Filipinos celebrate:

ATI-ATIHAN
Kalibo, Aklan
13-19 January
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The Ati-Atihan Festival commemorates the 13th century land deal between 10 migrating Bornean chieftains and the aboriginal Ati King Marikudo. It also honors the town patron, the infant Sto. Niño.

The ceaseless, rhythmic pounding of drums get to you, and before you know it you are on the street, shuffling your feet, shaking your head, waving your hands – and joining thousands of soot-blacked, gaily-costumed revelers in an ancient ritual of mindless merriment. A familiar battle cry reaches your ears, and amidst all this confusion you remember where you are: Kalibo, Aklan. “Viva, Sto. Niño!”

The Ati-Atihan celebration is echoed in many parts of the country.

SINULOG
Cebu City
18-19 January

Cebu City’s fiesta of fiestas. Characterized by its peculiar two-steps-forward-and-one-step-backward shuffle, thus simulating the Holy Child of the shores, the Sinulog is a century-old tradition observed in the part of Visayas region. The prayer-dance is synchronized to the beat of drums and shouts of “Pit Señor! Viva Sto. Niño!” Feel free to dance with the best of them, grooving all the way to the grand final presentation at the Cebu City Sports Center.

DINAGYANG
Iloilo City
25-26 January

Merry mayhem breaks loose in Iloilo City during this weekend, when Ilonggos leave everything behind to join in the fiesta of the year. All inhibitions are dropped: boring everyday clothes are exchanged for “Ati” warrior costumes and black body paint. Shields and “weapons” are held amidst the pounding rhythm of drums, the costumed Ilonggos put their best feet forward in celebration of…..Dinagyang!

PANAGBENGA
Baguio Flower Festival
23 February – 3 March

It’s flower season in the city of Pines – perfect timing for an all-out fiesta in the streets. The Baguio folk take a break on these days to revel in the cool climate and the unique culture of the city. Multi-hued costumes are worn, mimicking the various blooms of the highland region (or any of its 11 ethnic tribes). These are flowerbeds – disguised, of course, as the Panagbenga parade floats.

KAAMULAN
Malaybalay, Bukidnon
28 February – 1 March

Expect the Bukidnon to go tribal from the first to the second week of March, when the streets of Malaybalay take on that familiar fiesta theme. Banners, banderitas, and beer will be norm, as well as the sweet, haunting sound of native music. An early morning pamuhat ritual kicks off the festivities, to be followed by an ethnic food fest, trade fairs, and a lot of native dancing.

MORIONES
Marinduque
13-20 February

The island of Marinduque prides itself in being the “Lenten Capital of the Philippines”, and it is easy to understand why. Come the seven days of Holy Week, the people of the island take part in the age-old ritual of the “Moriones”. Colorful warrior costumes are worn, topped with finely carved masks depicting the fierce Roman soldiers of Christ’s time. All these are done to depict the story of the conversion of Longuinus, the centurion who pierced Jesus’ side – and his subsequent beheading.

CUTUD LENTEN RITES
San Fernando, Pampanga
16-18 April
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Prayer of a different meaning during the Lenten season, when villagers of San Pedro, Cutud, engage in the act of self-flagellation. This ancient ritual is performed in the morning of Good Friday during the Holy Week. Backs, arms, and legs are cut and then struck with burillo whips. The climax to this occasion happens at midday, when penitents are literally nailed to their waiting crosses.

PAHIYAS/MAYON/AGAWAN
Quezon
11-15 May

Flowers come out in May, but these aren’t the only things flaunted during this merry month. Down south in the town of Lucban, Quezon, there’s also the kiping – a colorful, translucent rice tortilla that serves as an edible ornament of sorts. You will see lots of these at the Pahiyas Festival, an annual celebration held to usher in a bountiful harvest, and smashing good times.

It’s a free-for-all, grab-all-you-can affair with suman-sweet, sticky native rice cakes-as the center of contention. It is also the grand prize, so feel free to join the fray. Rest assured, whether you get handfuls or just a mere mouthful, the Mayohan sa Tayabas will leave you wanting for more – suman, of course!

Sariaya’s own version of the San Isidro festival showcases the creativity and ingenuity of the townsfolk in their craft and culinary tradition.

FLORES DE MAYO / SANTACRUZAN
Nationwide
May

A parade of the town’s loveliest ladies, depicting the search and discovery of Christ’s Cross by Queen Helena and Constantine.

MUDPACK FESTIVAL
Murcia, Negros Occidental
24 June

Oneness with nature is the underlying theme behind Murcia’s annual mud-moving spectacle. Check on its murky highlight – a lively street dancing parade with the participant wearing nothing but mudpacks (well, almost…). It’s a surefire way to mix our ecological concerns with good, clean, cloddy fun – just be sure to shower afterwards!

PINYAHAN SA DAET
Daet, Camarines Norte
15-24 June

Sweet, succulent pineapple is the fruit of choice for the people of Daet, Camarines Norte. In fact, they loved it so much that they made a festival in its honor. Join the locals as they celebrate the Pineapple Festival featuring a colorful street presentation complemented by art exhibits, trade fair, cultural dances, and sport events. Feel rich when you go for a visit at Paracale Gold Mines, and be acquainted with some Bicol heroes like Vinzon and Panganiban and Lucban.

PARADA NG LECHON
Balayan, Batangas
24 June

A different sight and flavor are introduced in June with a festival in Balayan, Batangas, popularly known as the “Parada Ng Lechon”. These succulent roasted pork form the highlight of the occasion, decked out in their platforms with all kinds of décor. Since the festival coincides with the feast of St. John the Baptist, be prepared to get wet as people observe the feast by repeating the ritual of baptism – pouring water.

TACLOBAN PINTADOS FESTIVAL
Tacloban City
29 June

Back during pre-Hispanic years, tattoos signified courage among the natives of Tacloban. These days they symbolize a cultural revival, and a wild, wacky fiesta called the Pintados. Join the town residents as they deck themselves out in body paint, mimicking the warriors of old while dancing to the frenetic beat of drums.

SANDUGO FESTIVAL
Tagbilaran City
1-2 July

The Spanish colonization of the Philippines began with a blood-sealed peace treaty on the shores of Bohol. This historic event is remembered today with an all-out fiesta at the island’s capital city. Check out the Sandugo street dancing parade featuring ten colorfully-dressed groups dancing to the beat of drums. There’s also a traditional Filipino carnival, a martial arts festival, and Miss Bohol Sandugo Beauty Pageant, among the dozen of other exciting activities.

KINABAYO FESTIVAL
Dapitan City
25 July
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An exotic and colorful pageant re-enacting the Spanish-Moorish wars, particularly the Battle of Covadonga where the Spanish forces under General Pelagio took their last stand against Saracan. They were able to reverse the tide through the miraculous apparition of St. James. The addition of local color and innovation has made this annual revelry a popular attraction which brings thousands of visitors to the city.

KADAYAWAN SA DABAW
Davao City
20-24 August

Davao’s annual festival, Kadayawan Sa Dadaw promises another weekend of fanfare and fun – tribal style. Watch as the festivities reach a glorious climax on Saturday morning: that’s when the Kadayawan parade is held, featuring colorful, orchid-bedecked floats and more than a dozen “ethnic” groups dancing to the beat of wooden drums.

BONOK-BONOK FESTIVAL & SILOP CAVE ADVENTURE
Surigao City
9 September

Behind Surigao’s multi-faceted culture is its original tribal background. The Surigaonons go back to their roots this month as they celebrate their heritage with a loud, rowdy street dancing parade.

PEÑAFRANCIA VIVA LA VIRGEN
Naga City
20 September

Bicol Region’s biggest celebration is an annual affair that combines religion with culture and tradition, packing it all in a 9-day fiesta of biblical proportions. Stay until sundown for stirring climax: the fluvial parade as it makes its way down the river, surrounded by a sea of glowing candles – a fitting end of this truly spiritual occasion.

ZAMBOANGA HERMOSA FESTIVAL
Zamboanga City
10-12 October

All roads in Mindanao lead to Zamboanga, as the “City of Flowers” celebrates its grand, annual Hermosa Festival. The vintas, those colorful native sea boats, once again make their appearance in a fast-paced, race-till-you-drop regatta. There’s also a wealth of cultural and flower shows, art exhibits, and trade fairs. It’s an all-out celebration of life – Chavacano style!

MASSKARA FESTIVAL
Bacolod City
14-21 October

The festival that made Bacolod famous began as an event to inspire the locals to face the hard times with a smiling face, thus masks with smiling faces are worn by revelers who join the parade. Street dancing, drum beating, drinking, eating and just being merry – all this show the resiliency of Negrenses and their zest for life.

source: http://www.tourism.gov.ph/discover/festivals.asp

Davao City

Davao is a region in south eastern Mindanao, Philippines that boast of its natural beauty and resources.

Davao is composed of four provinces namely: Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley and the City of Davao. Collectively, they are designated as Region XI of the Philippines. Davao is a major producer of gold, and its mining resources include silica, silver, copper and elemental sulfur. It is where the highest peak (10,311 feet) in the Philippines is located – Mt. Apo, where only the brave dare climb.

Davao City is the most important city in Mindanao and the largest city in Asia in terms of land area – occupying more than 244,000 hectares. Its population according to the 2000 Census is 1,147,116. It’s international airport and seaport is one of the busiest cargo hubs in the southern Philippines. Davao City is also one of several cities in the Philippines that are independent of any province. The city is also the regional center for the Davao Region.

There are many places to go and things to do in Davao. Just 5 kilometers north of the city is Lanang Golf & Country Club with an 18 hole course. To the south of the city are Apo Golf & Country Club and New Davao City Golf Club. The region has many hotels and resorts to relax and unwind. For the gourmet, Davao offers a wide variety of local and international cuisines at very reasonable prices. Davao is known for its fresh seafood, notably the grilled yellow fin tuna, tiger prawns, barbeques and other delightful specialties. Not to be missed when in Davao is the Durian, the fruit that smells like hell but taste like heaven!

Some of the more popular places of interest in Davao:

Samal Island – unspoiled and pristine, the island prides itself for its white sand beaches with vacation facilities for different kinds of water sports.

Tourist attraction of DavaoPearl Farm Beach Resort, is the most famous tourist destination in Davao. The Pearl Farm is located on Samal Island just a short boat ride from Davao City. The 11-hectare resort was once a real pearl farm that cultivated oysters imported from the Sulu Sea, and produces some of the best pearls in the country. Now the white sand beach resort is a top tourist attraction in Davao with cottages inspired by the Isamal native design.

Philippine Eagle National Center, where the endangered Philippine eagle is bread in captivity. The Center provides shelter to some 19 Philippine eagles as well as other birds, animals.

Tourist interested in local handicrafts will find artwork and various handmade products made by indigenous ethnic tribes of Davao namely the Bagobos, the Atas, the Mansakas, the Mandayas, the the Kalagans, the Mangguangans and the Tagakaolos. Their crafts can be found in local stores and museums in the city.

One can get to Davao City from Manila by land (by bus via the Pan-Philippine highway), by sea (daily ferry boats) or Air.

Source

Kawaii Filipina Blogger

I found this very kawaii site of jeniffa. I love her theme.  Her site jenifaa-sakura is a monetizing blog which contains product reviews and advertising stuffs. I also noticed that we have something in common. We are both involve in paid reviews. hehe.

Her site is also offers services like photo editing, signature making, link buttons and also friendster layouts. She’s using wordpress as a blogging tool. Lots of plug ins and advertisements.

Visit her kawaii site.

Blogger Wave

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We bloggers, write reviews and links to the sites we recommend to our readers for free. While Blogger Wave offers bloggers like us to earn money by just doing reviews for other sites. We just have to select available opportunities from advertisers that best suits our blog and write reviews or opinions regarding their products and services. It’s free to join, plus you’ll be paid for your opinion!

So make your blog more useful. Register your blog in Blogger Wave and start earning money online!

Manchester Utd Tickets

My daddys’ aunt in United Kingdom asked me to look for a website that sells tickets for Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool or Man Utd Tickets. That is when I found out this site selling online tickets for sold out events like this. So I decided to give my aunt this link for Man Utd Tickets.<

I think this is most safe and affordable site I could refer for her. My cousin already tried buying there for a foot ball event in Moscow. She told me that buying tickets online is safe and much easier.She is an avid fan of  Manchester United FC. She loves foot ball. And she always buy tickets online in ticket solutions

Philippines

The Philippines is the third largest English speaking country in the world. It has a rich history combining Asian, European, and American influences. Prior to Spanish colonization in 1521, the Filipinos had a rich culture and were trading with the Chinese and the Japanese. Spain’s colonization brought about the construction of Intramuros in 1571, a “Walled City” comprised of European buildings and churches, replicated in different parts of the archipelago. In 1898, after 350 years and 300 rebellions, the Filipinos, with leaders like Jose Rizal and Emilio Aguinaldo, succeeded in winning their independence.

In 1898, the Philippines became the first and only colony of the United States. Following the Philippine-American War, the United States brought widespread education to the islands. Filipinos fought alongside Americans during World War II, particularly at the famous battle of Bataan and Corregidor which delayed Japanese advance and saved Australia. They then waged a guerilla war against the Japanese from 1941 to 1945. The Philippines regained its independence in 1946.

Filipinos are a freedom-loving people, having waged two peaceful, bloodless revolutions against what were perceived as corrupt regimes. The Philippines is a vibrant democracy, as evidenced by 12 English national newspapers, 7 national television stations, hundreds of cable TV stations, and 2,000 radio stations.

Filipinos are a fun-loving people. Throughout the islands, there are fiestas celebrated everyday and foreign guests are always welcome to their homes.

Deepest spot underwater in the Philippines

The world’s second deepest spot underwater is in the Philippines. This spot, about 34,440 feet (10,497 meters) below the sea level, is known as the Philippine Deep or the Mindanao Trench. The Philippine Deep is in the floor of the Philippine Sea. The German ship Emden first plumbed the trench in 1927.