Eco-chic

Towards A Greener City

By Pepin

As Iloilo City faces bigger developments, existing problems become more complex to solve. One of these is garbage. Tin cans and plastic containers are seen everywhere on the streets the solid waste segregation plans are not fully implemented.  

Photo credit to 3.bp.blogspot.com

The problem is that many people resist to be educated or simply do not care at all. They are not ignorant of the policy and procedures, but they are not practicing what they are aware of.

I think it’s is time that the local government to enforce a tougher penalty on littering offense. Aside from it, the government should acquire cleaning materials, manpower, and machines that will help tidy the city streets at the start and end of the day. Moreover, public and private sectors should improve their communication strategies so that people will understand deeply the importance of a clean and green environment.

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To labour for a living

By Pepin

The long road that circles the region of Panay will take you to imposing landscapes and structures. But along the rolling highways, you will witness the industrious people who toil under extreme weather conditions to make a living.

On the long stretch of the blue sea are fishermen patiently waiting for the day’s catch, while on the other side of the road are farmers harvesting this season’s crops. And just a few meters off the main road are small stalls of vendors, who are hoping to sell their fresh produce to the passing public.

This picture of trade is very common in Panay. People toil hard to create products and sell these to earn money, which will be used to finance their children’s education and to pay their dues. This is how they spell progress. In other words, if you are not working hard, you will end up earning nothing.

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Antique is home to the world's biggest flower

Photo credit to Renee Galang

Rafflesia is known as the world's biggest flower and can be found in the lush rain forest of Mt. Igtuog in the province of Antique. The local government is putting measures to conserve this national pride and to keep it for future generations to see.

Announcement

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To work together for progress

 By Pepin

Guimaras’ Manggahan Festival is not merely a celebration of culture and good harvest, but also a reminder to the people of the province that through cooperation, progress can easily be achieved. This year’s edition of the festival aims to maximize people’s participation in all sectors of the society.

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Iloilo's record-breaking quest

By Pepin

Photo credit to Balticmuse.com

On April 14, Iloilo sets another Guinness World Record for the largest flaming image using candles. This was in line with the “World Peace through Inner Peace” advocacy by Middle Way Meditation Institute, which initiated the other world record of the province last year for the most number of lanterns simultaneously released on air.

Iloilo bested the world record that was previously held by Pakistan. 

Videos

Vibrant Kalibo!

Here's a promotional video that showcase the best of Kalibo, Aklan

Video credit to bongweasel (youtube)

Inspiring Anecdotes

Have A Blessed Season of Lent

The Great Summer Escape 11:

A brief travel guide to 

Concepcion, Iloilo

The Sandbar (Photo credit to Lakas.com.ph)

By Pepin

One day is not enough to experience Concepcion, Iloilo, so better take two!

When you find yourself in this remarkable municipality, don’t ever forget to visit the Sandbar! This amazing spot will let you feel that you are literally "walking above sea". Leaving your footprints on the white sand path and enjoying a sight of the pristine blue waters on both sides contribute to a unique summer experience.

Pan de Azucar 

Most of your time will be spent on island hopping, so get ready for this. You will be mesmerized by the three islands: Agho, Malangabang, and Pan de Azucar. Agho island showcases a unique coral attraction for its visitors, while the Malangabang Island is a perfect picnic spot. Pan de Azucar island is dubbed by many as “a place of exceptional beauty” because of the cone-shaped mountain that will provide you with a picture-perfect backdrop.

At the end of your visit to Concepcion, you will realize that you have done so much for summer, but the experiences and the scenery will linger on your mind for quite a long time. In fact, these stored images on your head will tell you to keep coming back for more. 

Health

Don't suffer from a summer disease

By Pepin

Summer sun is not always synonymous to summer fun. We should also take precautionary measures as we expose ourselves under the blazing heat.

Health experts in the province of Aklan informed the public that aside from sunburn, there are certain conditions that proliferate due to a tremendous increase in the temperature of the environment. These include measles and sore eyes. Heat strokes and dehydration are also common in summer, and these can be life-threatening to many individuals.

The local health sector advice people to drink more water, and to avoid too much sun exposure. It is also recommended to see a doctor for any discomforts felt and to avoid going out in public if unwell

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Museo Iloilo 

Located just within the city center, Museo Iloilo lets you experience the history and vibrancy of the Ilonggo culture. The unique collection of artifacts and objects of cultural importance gathered from all over Panay region shows the uncomplicated and ingenious lifestyle of the early dwellers of the province.

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It's Summerrr!

Well, well, well... it's that hottah hottah season again, and another awesome experience will be posted on our Facebook walls.So what are you waiting for? Get into your swim gears have a splash! Summer season only comes once a year and you need to make the most of it. How about trying some River Kayak adventure at Tibiao, Antique? It would be "splashtastic"!

Photo credit to Katahum Tours

Health

Ease stress with Tai Chi

By Pepin

Photo credit to inspirehappy.com

We often suffer from stress because of the heavy demands of modern living, and it can take a toll on our

health. Therefore, it is important that we should utilize activities to reduce a stressful lifestyle.

One of the best stress-reliever is Tai Chi. It is a type of physical activity that loosens up the body and appeases the mind. It works by coordinating body movements with breathing techniques. It appeals mostly to people who do not want vigorous forms of exercises.

Originally from China, Tai Chi has become popular all over the world. Ancient legend tells that the exercise movements stimulate the flow of “Chi”, a form of positive energy believed by many to bring good health and well-being.

Health experts have approved the benefits of Tai Chi. There are studies that showed it is beneficial for people suffering from Heart disease, depression, diabetes, and respiratory disease.

Events:

Pintados de Passi

Photo credit to Raine Medina

By Pepin

Pintados de Passi Festival transforms Passi City into a vibrant ethnic site. This cultural event, celebrated every third week of March, is one of the most exciting and prized festivals in the province of Iloilo.

There are competing tribes that will be presenting interpretative dances at different judging areas around the city. Aside from the remarkable dance portrayal, spectators are also excited to see the performers being ornamented with traditional body tattoos. These tattoos tell a story of the early days of Passi and how its story time evolved throughout the years.

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Who will reign supreme?

Photo credit to Ramzkie Photography

A few days more and it will be judgment day for the eleven competing tribes of Dinagyang Festival 2014. We will be witnessing flashy costumes and thunderous drum beats that compliment exuberant cultural presentations. It will truly be an exceptional experience that Iloilo will showcase to the world and for the greater honor of Senor Santo Nino.

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The hills are alive!

Photo credit to Carmen Dulguime

By Pepin

Pandan Hills is one of the points of interest that you can find at the Municipality of Batan, Aklan. The energizing green color of the grass and the breathtaking ambiance at the top of the hill is perfect for those who seek an uplifting vacation. Plus, you won’t miss the breathtaking view of the Sibuyan Sea from afar.

Announcement

Grandiose festivals to join 

Kasadyahan 2014

Photo credit to Bruceliron.photoshelter.com

By Pepin

Kasadyahan Regional Festival 2014 will not only showcase the best cultural presentations from the province of Iloilo, but seven others from the other parts of the Western Visayas region will take part in this edition.

It was already confirmed that the following tribes are set to perform:

1. Masskara of Bacolod City
2. Manggahan of Guimaras
3. Ati-atihan of Kalibo, Aklan
4. Banigan of Libertad, Antique
5. Pintaflores of San Carlos City
6. Hugyaw Kansilay of Silay City
7. Sinadya sa Halaran of Capiz

The audience will have a visual treat on January 25 as local and regional tribes display spectacular and meaningful cultural presentations before their eyes.

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2014: The real deal

By Pepin

So what’s in-store for the New Year? Well, no one really knows. Even the great fortune-tellers couldn’t have the clearest vision of what the future has for this world.

The past year brought a lot of surprises, both expected and unexpected. There were victories and hurdles. Everyday news was barraged with shocking stories that shaped humankind. We witnessed how these transformations changed perceptions and lifestyles. But did we ever expect most of these events to happen?

Nobody foretold exactly how the past year would turn out to be. We were in a situation of waiting for the “what’s next?” We just felt the earth shook under our feet and strong winds annihilating buildings and sturdy trees. The next thing we knew was that there were lives lost and properties damaged.

But even though we didn’t see things coming, we were able to make the past a worthwhile experience. We gained resilience, courage, and faith. Despite the mishaps, we were able to uphold human dignity, to stand firm against corruption, to maintain the exceptional momentum of our economy, and most of all to take pleasure from the simple joys of life. These were our victorious quests.

We can’t see the future ahead of us. But two things are definitely true – there will be change and it will be a learning experience for all of us. We just need to prepare ourselves of what’s going to happen and have an optimistic view.

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