New coral species discovered

A Filipino marine scientist cite the discovery of at least four new species of coral in the Philippines.

Dr. Edgardo Gomez, University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UPMSI) professor emeritus, said the continuous survey of coral reefs conducted in Philippine waters showed “about four to five new records of coral reef.”

“The total number of species of corals is increasing. Particularly, more coral diversity is being discovered,” Gomez said during a press conference on the Coral Triangle Initiative (CTI) Conference held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Manila in Quezon City yesterday.

He also cited the discovery of a new species of coral called Leptoseris kalayaanensis, which was discovered by marine biologist Dr. Wilfredo Licuanan in the waters off Kalayaan islands in Spratlys a few years ago.

Gomez, who is currently the coordinator of the Center of Excellence for the Philippines and Southeast Asia under the Global Environment Facility/World Bank Coral Reef Targeted Research Program, where he also serves as co-chair of the Restoration and Remediation Working Group, noted there are about two to five metric tons per square kilometer of coral reef damaged annually.

American zoologist Dr. Kent Carpenter said corals are damaged usually because of sedimentation, poor land use, overfishing, and dynamite fishing.
However, Gomez said that with the protection and conservation of remaining coral reefs, about 25 to 30 metric tons per square kilometer of coral reefs yearly will reach its excellent condition.

Kennon Road in Baguio

“Kennon Road was ordered built by American governor general William Cameron Forbes in 1901. Although originally called Benguet Road, it was named after U.S. Army Colonel Lyman N. Kennon who was its final builder. With the labor of Igorots and some foreign workers, the road was completed in 1903 and has since become a major route to Baguio City.”

This is another pride of the city and the heritage of American soldiers who came the city. kennon Road is also one of the amazing place in the country. Every time someone is passing by this beautiful road, the reflection of history plays back how many decades ago.

“According to records, between 2,300 to 4,000 workers were employed in the building of the road, all of different nationalities— American, Hawaiian, Indian, Mexican, Chinese, German, Irish, English, Swedish, French, Japanese and, of course, Filipino. Colonel Kennon is thus credited for employing the first overseas contract workers to the Philippines. A breakdown of the figures showed that 49 percent of the workers were Filipinos, 22.5 percent were Japanese, 17.5 percent were Americans and Europeans, 11 percent were Chinese, and the remaining 11 percent were from Latin America and other countries.”

The history shows that Filipinos have great contribution during the making of the road. It shows also the unity of the different races towards one thing. We can’t name them but we can see them by appreciating their work. The work that may last for century or even forever. Kennon Road symbolizes the richness of the Philippines in terms of historical places.

 

Source : http://www.readablog.com/feed23745.aspx

Amanpulo in Palawan

      

Amanpulo is an escape from the markings of mankind and is a dive into island life where nature has been unashamedly boastful. The island is secluded, being private, and offers a variety of sea, sand and tropical island-retreat–pleasures, in exclusive comfort and in traditionally styled accommodation. Amanpulo or, 

‘peaceful island’, honours its island host, respecting the natural elements with a profoundly ‘South Seas’ interpretation. The 40 Beach, Hillside and Treetop Casitas are modelled on authentic bahay kubo dwellings, each with its own golf cart for island exploration.

This romantically remote island caters for those who wish to ‘hammock’ and beach comb their days in paradise, and for those who 

seek an active agenda, involving a myriad of maritime adventures as well as tennis, a high-tec air-conditioned gym, and taking languid lengths in the resort’s 30m serene pool. The open-air Garden and Beach Salas are discreetly secluded for pleasurable holistic body treatments.    

Source :  http://www.amanresorts.com/amanpulo/resort.aspx

I was really amazed when I saw the pictures of this island resort. A family friend introduced this site and place to me. Beautiful isn’t it?

Barong Tagalog

Q. What is a Barong?

A. Barong is actually short for Barong Tagalog, which describes the formal men’s wear of the Philippines. It is properly referred to as the ‘Baro ng Tagalog’ (dress of the Tagalog). Contracting the first two words

Barong Tagalog sa Pilipinas

produces ‘Barong,’ which literally means ‘dress of.’ So, if we want to be correct, we wouldn’t say just ‘Barong.’ But, the slang way of referring to one of the beautiful formal shirts is simply Barong. Yes, the Barong Tagalog is a dress, a garment, a coat in itself. It is not merely a ’shirt’. If it were, then it would need a coat or a jacket over it to qualify as formal wear and would have to be worn tucked inside the trousers.

‘Baro’ = Word for ‘dress’ in the Philippines, Tagalog dialect
‘Baro ng Tagalog’ = ‘dress of the Tagalog’ describes the formal ‘dress’ or upper garment for men in the Philippines
‘Barong Tagalog’ = contracted form of the above
‘Barong’ = literally means ‘dress of’ – but commonly used to refer to the formal men’s wear in the Philippines

Q. How the Barong Tagalog Evolved In History?

A. As the Philippines’ national dress, the Barong Tagalog enjoys a distinction all its own. Its fine needlework or hand-painted designs in cool cotton or handwoven pina or jusi have given it a flair that has won international recognition and acceptance.

President Ferdinand E. Marcos, who has worn the Barong Tagalog with such impeccable grace and searing devotion, underscored its prestige when he issued in 1975 a decree proclaiming Barong Tagalog Week (June 5-11) and more significantly, officially designating the Barong Tagalog as “the national attire”. The presidential act was meant to focus nation-wide attention on the Filipino national dress to wider use and enhance its export potential. As it is, both the wide use and export potential of the Barong Tagalog have been explored , its full impact just a matter of time.

What deserves another look is the manner the Filipino national costume has evolved and grown, picking up and shedding features fashion-related or otherwise in its journey from pre-Hispanic native wear to national dress. But first, a few things have to be straightened out. Barong Tagalog is properly referred to as the “Baro ng Tagalog” (dress of the Tagalog) and it cannot be contracted to simply “Barong” since that would be equivalent in English to saying “He is wearing a dress of”. The word “Barong”, one realizes, means “dress of”. If one wishes to shorten the phrase, then it would be “Baro” or “dress”. Yes, the Barong Tagalog is a dress, a garment, a coat in itself. It is not a “shirt”. If it were, then it would need a coat or a jacket over it to qualify as formal wear and would have to be worn tucked inside the trousers. The Earliest Baro The earliest known fact on the “Baro ng Tagalog” discloses that the natives of Ma-I (the Philippines as it was called before the Spaniards re-discovered the archipelago), and in particular, the Tagalogs, who lived in the island of Luzon, wore baro.

Hundred Islands National Park

Alaminos is undeniably a growing trade, commercial and educational center of Western Pangasinan. Owing to its strategic location and with the presence of the world-famous Hundred Islands National Park, and with its abundant natural resources, the municipality is one of the growth centers in Region I. With such inherent strengths, traders and businessmen continue to come to Alaminos.

Investments propelled the economic development of the town.

With a booming economy, Alaminos was reclassified from fourth to third class municipality in July 1991, the only one in the province and one of the five (5) municipalities in Region I. Its reclassification is based on the provisions of Executive Order No. 249 and Finance Department Order No. 79-91 dated July 1991. Six years later, with continuous economic growth, Alaminos, was again reclassified into a first class municipality in May 7, 1997 by virtue of the Executive Order No. 294 and Finance Department Order No. 79-91 dated July 1991.

However, it was in 1994 when then Mayor Alipio Fernandez, Mayor of Dagupan City, first broached the id

ea to the then Mayor Leon M. Rivera, Jr., of converting Alaminos into a city due to its strategic location in Western Pangasinan.

In July 1997, Mayor Rivera convened the Municipal Council led by the then Vice Mayor Eduardo F. Fontelera, who later became City Mayor, where conversion of Alaminos into be

coming a city was seriously discussed. After its deliberations, with an overwhelming support from the Sangguniang Bayan, Kgd. Orlando R. Go sponsored a resolution converting the municipality into a city.

Rep. Hernani Braganza, then congressman representing the First District of Pangasinan in the 10th Cogress, filed House Bill No. 10275 in November 1997. Unluckily, particular bill was not calendared for reading in January 1998 because of time constraints brought about by the forthcoming national elections scheduled in May.

In the 11th Congress, with Congressman Romeo Candazo as the Chairman of the Local Government Committee, the

local officials lost no time in securing and updating all reference materials that they have prepared previously. After all the requirements were properly complied with, Congressman Braganza, then in his second term, immediately filed House Bill No. 4898 on October 21, 1998.

Last public hearing conducted for this purpose was held in October 21, 1991 at the Don Leopoldo Sison Auditorium which was participated in by a huge crowd representing the pro and anti citihood movement.

It is in December 1999 when House Bill No. 4898 was finally approved by the House of Representatives during its third and final reading.

In February 8, 2001, consolidated House Bill No. 4898 and Senate Bill No. 2257 was passed by the House of Representatives and the Senate. To be enacted was RA 9025, an Act Converting the Municipality of Alaminos, Province of Pangasinan into a Component City to be known as the City of Alaminos.

And so, in March 5, 2001, at the Kalayaan Hall in Malacañang, the local government officials have witnessed the signing of RA

9025, the law converting Alaminos into a city by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. But it is only in March 28, 2001 when finally, more than 85% of Alaminians voted affirmatively in making Alaminos into becoming the fourth city of the Province of Pangasinan.

source : http://www.alaminoscity.gov.ph/thecity/cityprofile.aspx

Pandanggo sa Ilaw

Pandanggo sa Ilaw is commonly liked dance of grace and balance from Lubang Island, Mindoro Occidental. The term pandanggo is derives from the Spanish word fandango, a dance described by lively sterps and clapping that changes in rhythm in three-fourth time. Pandanggo sa Ilaw consists of three tinggoy, or oil lamps, balance on the head and the back of both hands.

Ossiwas is a dance characterized by swinging and circling a lighted lamp. In Pangasinan, it means swinging. Being the only one of its kind, this colorful dance needs skill in balancing an oil lamp on the head while circling in both hands a lighted lamp enclosed in a fishnet or porous cloth. The waltz-style music of this dance is having qualities in common to that of Pandanggo sa Ilaw. Waltz is a dance in which couples glide to music having three beats to a measure.

Maglalatik

Maglalatik or Magbabao is a war dance representing in a picture a battle between the Moros and the Christian over the latik, the remainder left after the coconut milk has been boiled. At sometime in the course of Spanish rule, with coconut shells as tools, the people of the barrios of Loma and Zapote in the town of Biñan in the province of Laguna danced the Maglalatik.

The Palipasan and the Baligtaran, the first two portions of Maglalatik, reveal the hot combat between the Moros and the Christians. The Paseo and the Sayaw Escaramusa display the reconciliation between the legend, the two groups. As stated by the legend, the Moros won and got enviously wished latik. The dissatisfied Christians sent a representative to the Moros to offer peace and baptism to them.

During the town fiesta of Biñan, Laguna, the Maglalatik dancers are carrying out this dance from house to house for money or a gift in the daytime, and in the evening, they perform Maglalatik in the religious procession as it goes from one place to another along the streets as a sacrifice to San Isidro de Labrador, the patron saint of the farmers.

Binasuan

Binasuan is a dance full of life from Bayambang, a town located at the southern part of Pangasinan province. This dance having remarkable color displays proudly the balancing skills of the dancers who turn rapidly in circles move by turning over and over on the floor, and maneuver carefully with movement free of discomfort the drinking glasses half-filled with rice wine.

In Pangasinan, Binasuan means “with the use of a drinking glass”. It is frequently performed as amusement at social gatherings such as birthdays, weddings and fiestas where it becomes a competition among dancers and also among non-dancers as to who can display the most adventurous and expert balancing movement.

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