AKLAN FORUM journal

2012-02-02T02:06:00.005+10:00

PNP turns-over new patrol car to Aklan

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – A brand new police patrol car was turned over to the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) on Tuesday at Camp Martin Teofilo Delgado in Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City.

Aklan police director Senior Superintendent Cornelio Defensor received the symbolic key from Police Regional Office (PRO)-6 regional director Chief Superintendent Cipriano Querol, Jr. for the turned over of a Toyota Innova model patrol vehicle.

Querol led the turnover of police patrol vehicles to the provinces of Capiz, Iloilo, Aklan, Negros Occidental, Guimaras, Bacolod City and PRO-6 headquarters, which are part of the Philippine National Police’s enhanced drive on anti-crime operations.

According to Querol, the new patrol vehicles will enable the police to serve the community better, especially in carrying out their duties that require mobility.

“The patrol vehicles are not used only in carrying out police operations but sometimes used to ferry victims to the hospitals in times of emergencies. I encourage the police provincial offices to make good use of the vehicles at all times,” he said.

Meanwhile, Police Officer 2 Nida Gregas of Aklan Provincial Police Office (APPO) was awarded during the 21st Foundation Anniversary of PRO-6 in Iloilo City on January 30 with Medalya ng Papuri (PNP Commendation Medal).

She was recognized for being the Best Performing Information Officer of Aklan for 2011 during the Association of Government Information Officers (AGIO) Year-end Conference in Region 6.

2012-02-01T09:32:00.003+10:00

Reason and Concern

BY ATTY. RONQUILLO C. TOLENTINO

Former Aklan solon notable member of Sigma Rho

Former Aklan congressman Allen Salas Quimpo is listed among the notable members of the University of the Philippines’ (UP) Sigma Rho Fraternity.

The Sigma Rho Fraternity is a College of Law-based fraternity of UP and reputed to be the pioneer in law-student fraternities in Asia.

From Wikipedia, the internet-based free encyclopedia, some notable members of the Sigma Rho UP Fraternity are as follows:

* Luciano Salazar, one of the Charter Members of the Sigma Rho Fraternity and co-founder of SyCip Salazar Law Offices, the biggest law firm in the Philippines

* Magno Gatmaitan, Charter Adviser of the founding Members in 1938; former Associate Justice, Court of Appeals and UP College of Law professor

* Pedro L. Yap, former Chief Justice, Supreme Court of the Philippines

* Marcelo Fernan, former Chief Justice and Senate President

* Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile, current Senate President, also former Secretary / Minister of National Defense as well as congressman from Cagayan

* Rafael M. Salas, former Executive Secretary, Office of the President of the Philippines, Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, and Founder, United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA)

* Jose Leido Jr., former Minister of Natural Resources, Assistant Executive Secretary and Legislator

* Edgardo Angara, former Senate President, Executive Secretary, Secretary of Agriculture, and President, University of the Philippines

* Sen. Franklin Drilon, former Senate President as well as Executive Secretary, Secretary of Justice, and Secretary of Labor, all under President Corazon Aquino

* Cong. Marlon M. Villarin, Cong. Simeon Datumanong, Cong. Arthur Defensor, Cong. Luis Villafuerte, Cong. Simeon Kintanar, Cong. Macabangkit Lanto, Cong. Allen Quimpo, Cong. Rolex Suplico, Cong. Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, Cong. Ronald Cosalan, Cong. Nelson Collantes, former Pangasinan vice governor and congressman Ranjit Shahani and former National Telecommunications Commission chief Ronald O. Solis.

2012-01-31T08:41:00.008+10:00

Ati-Atihan festival earns P3.194 million, Kasafi says

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) chairman Albert Menez said the weeklong festival was successful and that the earnings this year was 75 percent higher compared to last year.

An internal audited financial statement of this year’s festival shows a net income of P3.194 million. Last year, the foundation netted an income of P1.835 million.

The biggest items for expenses incurred by Kasafi are cash prizes for the winning tribes and individuals of P679,000; subsidies for the tribes of P677,500; representation and entertainment of P491,142; Ati-Atihan festival materials of P409,312; Ati-Atihan souvenir program of P220,000, salaries and wages of staff for P162,300 and rentals of portalets of P140,000.

The biggest sources of income are sponsorships and donations, Hala Bira Ati-Atihan nights and Mutya ag Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan ticket sales, sales of drinks from Kalibo Magsaysay depot, rentals from Kalibo Magsaysay and Kaean-an sa Plaza stalls. Other sources of income were advertisements for the Ati-Atihan souvenir program and Kalibo Magsaysay space ads.

The Hala Bira Ati-Atihan Nights sponsored by Kasafi from January 9 to 12 earned P329,590 from ticket sales. Income from sales of drinks from Kalibo Magsaysay depot netted P138,003.75 and ticket sales for the Mutya ag Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan held at Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports and Cultural Center had P100,000.

Meanwhile, Menez said the Kasafi will put up an Ati-Atihan village in Tigayon Hills in Barangay Tigayon in partnership with the municipal government of Kalibo. The financial assistance for the tribes and the prizes for the Ati-Atihan street dancing contest will likely be increase next year, he added.

A total of 30 Ati-Atihan tribes and a dozen individuals for the Balik-Ati category joined the annual Ati-Atihan street dancing contest this year.

2012-01-30T00:06:00.002+10:00

Kalibo Ati-Atihan gallery opens

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Hop around in the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) office in a must-see Ati-Atihan gallery – a glimpse into the rich history and religious celebration of Senor Sto. Nino festival.

The public is invited for up close viewing of the gallery, which is dedicated to promote cultural and religious enrichment of the Senor Sto. Ati-Atihan festival, starting in the afternoon of January 30.

The gallery has a wide variety of Ati-Atihan tribal costumes of Tribu Parola, Black Beauty Boys, Tribu Responde, Kabog, Libtong Boys, Tribu Bukid Tigayon and Tribu Ninolitos, native instruments and a replica of the Senor Sto. Nino de Kalibo.

Other display items which are part of the public viewing are Balik-Ati artworks done by creative and talented students and the old photographs of the 1975 Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan festival event.

Going up in the second floor of the Capt. Gil Mijares Buiding, you will find the home of more than 100 visually stunning photographs of the recent Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan festival and the year-round activities, the mission and vision of the private sector-led Kasafi, said foundation chairman Albert Menez.

The new exhibition is also a fitting tribute to the partners, sponsors and volunteers who made the Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan festival managed by Kasafi in partnership with the municipal government of Kalibo for the past two years truly a big success.

Held every third Sunday of January, the Ati-Atihan festivity features various traditional festivities in honor of Senor Sto. Nino.

2012-01-29T10:00:00.004+10:00

Pinoy Pride XI: "Astig" Macahilig KOs Thai opponent in 2nd round

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Mar Jhun Macahilig of Kalibo, Aklan dropped Kaichon Sor Vorapin of Thailand in the 2nd round in the undercard fight of Pinoy Pride XI: Philippines vs The World

KALIBO, Aklan – Flyweight boxer Mar Jhun "Astig" Macahilig knocked out former world title contender Kaichon Sor Vorapin in the second round in the Pinoy Pride XI: Philippines vs the World at Cebu City Waterfront Hotel and Casino on Saturday.

The 21-year old native of Linabuan Norte, Kalibo, Aklan improved his record 14-1 with 8 KOs, including this one, of the scheduled 8^th round non-title flyweight bout (112 lbs).

Trained by Edmund Villamor of ALA Promotions, Macahilig dropped the 30-year old Thai opponent (25-10, 9 KOs) in a stunning short time of 2:01 minutes of the second round.

Wearing black trunks emblazzoned with the "Astig" name, Macahilig came forward with a barrage of head and body punches and landed a left hook to the body that sent Vorapin to the canvass grimacing in pain near the ropes.

Vorapin failed to beat the count of 10 of referee Teddy Alivio, giving the proud boxer from Kalibo, Aklan a second-round victory Saturday night before a sellout crowd in Cebu City.

In an interview by RGMA DyRU Super Radyo Kalibo, Macahilig said his trainer also works with Rey “Boom-Boom” Bautista and world boxing champion Donnie “Ahas” Nietes of the famed ALA Gym in Cebu City.

The last fight of Macahilig was a 10-round unanimous decision against southpaw Edwin Berwela on September 25, 2011 in Iloilo City. He also scored technical knockouts over Allan Doronilla (8^th round) in Bohol and Ryan Tampus (2^nd round) in Boracay Island in his boxing fights last year.

In 2010, Macahilig had six boxing matches – Jermie Jabel in Misamis Oriental (TKO), Rocky Sardido, Mark Anthony Gerardo and Elbert Guardario (unanimous decision). He lost a 6^th-round close match to Fernando Ocon in Cebu City on January 17, 2010.

In the main bout on Saturday, unbeaten World Boxing Organization (WBO) Inter-Continental flyweight champion Milan “El Metodico” Melindo (26-0, 10 KOs) defeated Juan “Panterita” Esquer of Mexico in the seventh round.

Filipino knockout artist Lorenzo "Thunderbolt" Villanueva also won over Diego Ledesma via 1st round KO and undefeated Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation mini-flyweight titleholder Merlito Sabillo won against Sofyan Effendi via unanimous decision.

Other boxing bouts at the jampacked Cebu Waterfront Hotel and Casino were:

Joseph Von Minoza defeated Korean champion Yoo Shin Kim via unanimous decision

Japanese warrior Kazuya Harada defeated Alvin Arresgado via majority decision

Jun “Flash” Intor defeated Crispin Parba via unanimous decision

Mark Acub wins over Samuel Galinato via 1st round knockout

Jicky Gaco defeated Ivor Lastrilla via technical decision

2012-01-28T15:44:00.003+10:00

Boracay named best beach in Asia, second in the world

A travel website has named the Philippines’ famous Boracay island as the best beach in Asia. The website www.TripAdvisor.com’s Travelers’ Choice 2011 also voted the island as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

“At only 4.5 miles long, Boracay is small enough to navigate by rented bicycle or motorbike. But don’t let its small size fool you—you’ll have several excellent beaches to choose from,” it said.

“Yapak Beach is known for beautiful white shells; White Beach has picture-perfect sunsets; and Balinghai Beach is a secluded spot, perfect for honeymooners. As long as you visit during dry season, you’ll agree this is one of the best beach destinations in the world,” the website added.

Included in the list of 25 best beaches in the world were Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (No.

1); Boracay, Philippines (No. 2 ); Palm/Eagle beach, Aruba island (No.3 ); Negril, Jamaica (No. 4); Tulum, Mexico (No.5); Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (No. 6); Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman island (No. 7); Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (No. 8); Cape May, New Jersey (No. 9) and Santa Teresa, Costa Rica (No. 10).

The website said that the ranking was based on the travelers’ reviews and ratings.

In Asia, the top best beaches were: Boracay, Philippines; Maldives, Koh Phangan, Thailand; Koh Samui, Thailand; Khao Lak, Thailand; Ko Phi Phi Don, Thailand; Gili Trawangan, Indonesia; Krabi Town, Thailand; Ko Lanta, Thailand; and Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam.

Best destinations

The website also included the summer capital of the Philippines—Baguio City—in its Top Best Destinations in Asia.

The City of Pines ranked 22nd in the best destinations category.

“Baguio, perched high in the Cordillera Central Mountains, is a great place to escape the heat of the Philippine lowlands. Camp John Hay, originally built as a recreation area for US soldiers, now is a full-fledged resort complete with a world-class golf course. Definitely stop at the city market, where you can buy almost anything (just be prepared to haggle),” it said.

Hong Kong was named the best destination in Asia while Cape Town, South Africa was adjudged the best in the world.

In its list of best hotels, TripAdvisor’s included Dave’s Straw Hat Inn in Boracay and Padre Burgos Castle Resort in Southern Leyte as Top Hotels for Service in Asia, which ranked 14th and 18th, respectively, while the Alegre Beach Resort in Cebu ranked 25th in All-Inclusive Resorts in Asia.

2012-01-27T18:25:00.000+10:00

Aklan guv to deliver his SOPA

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Governor Carlito Marquez will deliver his State of the Province Address (SOPA) at the session hall during the 5^th regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan on February 8.

The State of the Province Address is the 8th annual address of Marquez in his three-term incumbency as governor of Aklan.

Marquez is expected to mention the future thrusts of the provincial government and the modest achievements that his administration had achieved for the past 12 months in tourism, agriculture and food production, social development and services, public health delivery, sports, sourcing of funds, disaster and public safety management, youth, education, infrastructure, peace and order and livelihood.

The 5^th regular session of the Provincial Board will start at 9 a.m. to be presided by Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo.

Invited to grace the SOPA are officials and representatives of various local, regional and national offices and line agencies, local government officials and employees, elected officials, academe, non-government organizations, tri-media and other sectoral leaders.

For the eighth time, the address will be broadcast live on several Aklan-based radio stations and cable television companies.

Marquez, who plans to run for the congressional post in 2013, has declared Aklan as a ‘billionaire province’ with an annual budget of P1.115-billion for this year, of which P611.422 million is appropriated to the General Fund and P428.165 million to the Economic Enterprise Development Department.

Aklan was recently awarded by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) as 2^nd Runner-Up Best Performing in Region 6 in last year’s Search for Excellence in Local Governance or the EXCELL Awards.

2012-01-26T02:06:00.001+10:00

Kasafi ready to present Ati-Atihan financial report

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Is this year’s premier festival losing or earning? How would you rate the Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival?

These burning questions will be answered by the officials of Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) on January 30.

Kasafi chairman Albert Menez said the financial and evaluation reports of the recently concluded Ati-Atihan festival will be made public on Monday afternoon.

The Ati-Atihan financial report contains the funds from different entities and its proper accounting and how and when those funds were disbursed by the foundation.

Thanks to the confidence of the municipal government of Kalibo headed by Mayor William Lachica to the Kasafi for taking charge of this multi-million Ati-Atihan celebration. The foundation has grown a positive reputation for its transparency after submitting the last year's financial report within the prescribed deadline of 60 days after the festival.

In fact, the 2011 Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival financial report was made publicly available days after the festivities. In its first year of operations, Kasafi netted an income of P1.8 million and earned the confidence of sponsors and community groups in holding the festival.

Menez said this year's festival has been a success by every measure. As expected, the street dancing contest, pilgrims’ mass and the religious procession lured thousands of devotees and visitors to pay homage to the Senor Sto. Nino.

Television giant GMA-7 brought in stars for free Kapuso Ati-Atihan night. The tandem of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Aklan and the local producers opened the Aklan Products Expo to showcase the best-locally made products.

Hotels and pension inns were fully booked in the central town of Kalibo with advance bookings for next year’s festival. Coming out another top-drawer was the Mutya ag Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2012 for the second time in a row.

The Philippine National Police and the Philippine Army deployed around 800 soldiers, policemen and civilian volunteers to maintain peace and order for the weeklong festival.

Menez said the festival was not perfect and on scale of 1-10, he gave an overall rating of 8, with 1 being terrible and 10 being wonderful.

2012-01-25T08:41:00.001+10:00

Accounting - with a heart

BY ANGELO G. GARCIA

KALIBO, Aklan - In many rural areas, cooperatives are common organizations that help its members meet their common economic, social, cultural needs and aspirations through jointly owned and democrati-cally controlled enterprise.

Yet, many of these groups fall on the wayside because of the lack of the proper systems and manpower to correctly operate. Accounting is one of the most common pitfalls.

Recognizing the need to improve the operation of cooperatives in their area, the Aklan Catholic College Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (ACCJPIA) started a project called A CPA or the Assisting Cooperatives’ Proficiency in Accounting.

A CPA is a bookkeeping, accounting and audit field exposure for members of ACCJPIA to strengthen their academic competence by applying what they have learned in the accounting program, as well as to develop volunteerism and citizenship in providing assistance.

“The members teach sustainability to cooperatives that lack proper accounting systems and therefore cannot provide auditable financial statements which is an annual requirement of the Cooperative Devel-opment Authority,” explains ACCJPIA president Joeby Barrientos. “It is our desire to help these cooperatives not only in terms of their accounting functions but also somehow help in their business operations as well that lead us to come up with such a beneficial project.”

ACCJPIA is a recognized and an accredited student organization of Aklan Catholic College. All 105 stu-dents enrolled in BS Accountancy are members. The organization aims to strengthen academic competence, instill optimal growth, eagerness and attitude, and develop camaraderie among each member. Its goal is to enhance the integrity of the accountancy profession, among others. ACCJPIA has been conducting projects in connection with sustainability of cooperatives and small business enterprises for so many years.

FARMING AND ACCOUNTING

The project specifically assisted the Agbalogo Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (AFMPC), Aglucay Coconut Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (ACFMPC), Libang Samahang Nayon Multi-Purpose Co-operative and Libang Irrigation Association (LSNMPC) (all these in Makato, Aklan) and Boracay Aetas Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Boracay, Malay, Aklan.

“At first, the cooperatives lacked proper accounting system. They needed intervention of people who have knowledge in accounting and audit functions. The problem is that they don’t have the capacity to hire such people who are accounting-oriented because they are just small cooperatives composed of farmers and minorities (Aetas). Since accounting is an essential function in a business, cooperatives may not be able to conduct their operations efficiently,” Barrientos shares.

The group had to go through far flung areas to reach these cooperatives. Most of the time, they had to use their own allowances just to conduct the project.

One of the areas is in Boracay, Aklan. “When you go to Boracay, what you can see is the white beach, foreigners, well-accommodating resorts; Boracay offers a tourist destination at its best. But behind those eye-catching scenes are neglected by the common people, the indigenous and the original inhabitants of Boracay — the Aetas who are given less attention.”

“We teach the Aetas from the very simple mathematics, to the basics of accounting through one-on-one practical tutorial. Though some of them were not able to finish school, they are really eager to learn. Aetas are really inspiring and we will never give up on them as long as they need our intervention,” he explains.

Since then, the cooperatives that they have helped have improved a lot — from their accounting systems to entrepreneurial skills.

ACCOUNTING INTHE REAL WORLD

More than the assistance ACCJPIA gives to the cooperatives, the project has also helped student volunteers improve their craft.

“The accounting and auditing skills of the students were harnessed. What we learn in school is more ap-preciated when applied in the real world. We widen our social participation and responsibility while providing project enhancing the accounting profession and contributing to the attainment of the school’s mission,” Barrientos shares.

Jebelyn P. De Jose, BSA 4 student and ACCJPIA executive secretary says the organization changed her life a lot. “When I visited the Ati Community in Boracay to teach basic accounting, I found out that they lack education and it’s really hard for them to compete outside their community because of their status in the so-ciety. That’s why we are there — to make them feel that they are part of the community and that they have the confidence to tell everybody that they have something to contribute to the society.”

The organization has reaped many awards throughout the years including “Campus Organization of the Year”, the “Project of the Year” and “Adviser of the Year” for four consecutive years.

More recently, because of A CPA project, ACCJPIA was named one of last year’s Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) by the TAYOAwards Foundation, Inc. The annual event recognizes the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to the country.

They plan to put their R50,000 prize money to good use. They will continue to help and serve the coop-eratives and support more A CPA’s programs such as the accounting clinic, livelihood projects, seminars on financial reporting of cooperatives, etc.

2012-01-24T01:27:00.004+10:00

Kasafi bares 2012 Kalibo Ati-Atihan photo contest winners

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Photographers from the Aklan Kamera Organization (A.K.O.) dominated the 2012 Ati-Atihan Photo contest of
festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi).
The foundation shouldered the prizes at stake of P60,000 for the winners of the 'Balik-Ati' photo competition, which is open to all professional, amateur photographers and hobbyists.

For the second year in a row, the Kasafi in partnership with the Aklan Photographic Society, Inc. (APSI) hosted the Ati-Atihan photography contest to capture images of the lively and colorful festival in Kalibo.

This year, a total of 57 photographers - locals and foreigners - joined the Balik Ati Open Photo Contest. Each photographer is allowed to submit five photo entries taken from January 9 to 15 of the weeklong Ati-Atihan celebration and the entries to be judged on January 23.

Architect Mikko Martelino, a resident of XIX Martyrs Street, Kalibo, Aklan and a member of Aklan Kamera Organization (A.K.O.), stands out among the entries to grab the P30,000 grand prize.
Mikko's winning photo entry entitled 'Native Wings' depicts the smiling and soot-smeared Ati little boy - a member of Apo ni Inday of Calangcang, Makato, Aklan donned in his indigenous Ati tribe costume.

Over the last four years, Mikko has been honing his talent and skill in photography and his portfolio boasts of a myriad of subjects, ranging from poignant portraits, festive events to the most picturesque landscapes in the region.

Another award winning photographer and software developer Ree Dexter Ingeniero of New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan was declared second place winner for P20,000. Ree, also an AKO member, has the smiling Ati tribe member from Tribu Bukid Tigayon as his winning photo.

Third placer Donnie Magbanua, a native of Cavite and an entrepreneur-photographer of Balay Imprenta in C. Laserna Street, Kalibo, Aklan, also grabbed the third prize for P10,000 for his photo of 'Balahibong Manok' individual entry holding a Santo Nino image.

Albert Menez, chairman of Kasafi, said all winning Balik-Ati photos and other entries will be showcase by the foundation in the proposed Ati-Atihan gallery.

The judges for Balik Ati Photo contest were multi-awarded world-travelling photographer and Canon ambassador Per-Andre Hoffman, photojournalist Abet Jimenez, Rev. Fr. Joesel Quan, Architect and painter Jose Dureza and Ulf Gultemeyer.

The awarding ceremony for the photo contest winners is set on January 25 at the Kasafi office.

2012-01-23T10:22:00.012+10:00

Ibajay Ati-Ati winners named

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

IBAJAY, Aklan – The Ati tribe from Barangay Naisud was declared grand champion in the Ibajay Ati-Ati contest. Naisud received the biggest prize at stake of P100,000.

The Ati tribe from Barangay San Isidro came in second for P70,000

followed by Barangay Regador for P50,000.

Third runner-up honors went to San Juanians of Barangay Laguinbanua for P30,000 while Barangay Bugtong Bato get P20,000 for fifth place.

For the Float contest, Barangay Laguinbanua was adjudged grand winner with P100,000 in cash prize. Barangay San Isidro receivedP70,000 for second prize and Barangay Buenavista got P50,000 for third place.

Other winners in the Ibajay Ati-Ati Float contest are Barangay Naisud for P30,000 and Barangay Agdugayan for P20,000.

Floats of each barangay are decorated with agricultural products as the main sources of livelihood being paraded in the main streets while the Ati-Ati street dancing is a parade of participants from different barangays donned in their native and indigenous costumes dancing to the beat of the drums.

Still, thousands of devotees and visitors witnessed the annual religious feast in honor of Senor Santo Nino de Ibajay, which is celebrated every fourth Sunday of January.

The religious fiesta also includes palapak or pahilot, transfer of the Santo Nino image from the Rectory for the enthronement at the Saint Peter Parish Church, coronation of Miss Ibajay, concelebrated high mass for the devotees, Sayaw by Calizo clan and procession of the holy image of Senor Santo Nino.

The weeklong festivity in honor of Senor Santo Nino de Ibajay, slated from January 16 to 22, highlights the unique history and religiousity of the Ati-Ati in the town of Ibajay.

Other Ati-Atihan festivals are also celebrated in the towns of Malay, Malinao, Makato, Altavas and the capital town of Kalibo in the month of January.

2012-01-22T09:43:00.007+10:00

Ibajay Ati-Ati still draws thousands of devotees

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

IBAJAY, Aklan – Rains failed to dampen the spirits of the devotees of Senor Sto. Nino de Ibajay in its celebration of Ibajay Ati-Ati Municipal and Devotional Fiesta on Saturday.

The intermittent rains did not stop the celebration spirit as thousands of pilgrims witnessed the transfer of the image of Senor Santo Nino from the Catholic rectory to the adjacent Parish of Saint Peter the Apostle.

Dancing of Ati-Ati groups from various barangays of Ibajay begins in front of the rectory and by 11:45 in the morning, the miraculous holy image of Santo Nino de Ibajay is gradually move outside the rectory by male devotees until they reach the Ibajay church main altar accompanied by the never-ending drum beatings and the non-stop Ati-Ati style dancing.

The enthronement and transfer of Santo Nino image is also greeted by the raucous shouts of ‘Viva Senor Santo Nino’ while the ‘Sayaw by Calizo clan’ showed the mock battles between the Christianos and the Moros (Muslims).

Many devotees also continued to troop to the Ibajay church in an attempt to touch the image or throw handkerchiefs or towels to the people guarding the image near the church altar and pay homage to the patron saint of Ibajay.

Every fourth Sunday of January or the Feast day of Senor Santo Nino de Ibajay, a concelebrated high mass for the devotees attended by Ati-Ati groups with their barangay floats is scheduled at 8 a.m. followed by Sayaw by Calizo clan at 9 a.m.

Other activities are the street dancing and parade of Ati-Ati groups with a float filled with harvest products, palapak ag pahilot, procession of the Holy Image of Senor Santo Nino de Ibajay, return of the Holy Image back to the Catholic Rectory and the announcement of winners for the Float contest and Ati-Ati groups. The week long religious feast of Ibajay Ati-Ati is celebrated from January 16 to 22 this year.

2012-01-21T00:30:00.002+10:00

Ati-Atihan tribes join Dinagyang's Kasadyahan

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Two winning Ati-Atihan tribes in the recently concluded Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival will be joining the Dinagyang’s Kasadyahan 2012 as non-competing groups on January 21.

Black Beauty Boys, the reigning Tribal Big category champion of Linabuan Norte, Kalibo, Aklan, and the first runner-up winner Kabog of Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan will showcase the colorful customes and the Kalibo Ati-Atihan's unique street dancing to the wild beat of the drums in one of the centerpiece events of Iloilo’s Dinagyang festival this year.

The Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival is among those fascinating festivals in the region invited by the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation, Inc. (IDFI) and the Department of Tourism to take part in the street dancing of various religious and cultural traditions of Western Visayas.

The foundation has allocated P100,000 subsidy to ensure the participation of Kalibo’s Ati-Atihan in the Kasadyahan street dancing competition.

Entered also in the Kasadyahan Regional Cultural non-competing groups are the festivals in the region – the Masskara festival of Bacolod City, Kahilwayan festival of Sta. Barbara, Iloilo and the cultural presentation of Hugyaw Arts and Dance Company of St. Therese College of Iloilo.

The competing groups are the Sinulog sang Oracon of Sibunag, Guimaras; Palayag festival of Buenavista, Guimaras; Salakayan of Miagao, Iloilo; Sinadya sa Halaran of Roxas City, Capiz; Hugyaw Kansilay festival of Silay City, Negros Occidental and Montogawe festival of Mina, Iloilo.

Other groups in the competitive category are Tribu Maragtas of West Visayas State University of Iloilo City, Iloilo; Mandaragat Tribe of San Jose, Antique; Panguyang Festival of Tibiao, Antique and Sigabong sang mga Kanyon of Bago City, Negros Occidental.

Prizes worth P125,000 awaits the Kasadyahan grand champion, first runner-up P75,000; second runner-up P50,000; third runner-up P40,000 and fourth runner-up P30,000 will be awarded to the winners.

Minor awards for best in street dancing will receive P20,000 and P10,000 each for best in performance, choreography, music, costume and choreographer.

2012-01-20T09:14:00.000+10:00

Echoes From

BY JOHNNY DAYANG

Sterling Leadership

It has been dubbed the first major battle of President Benigno Aquino III's anti-corruption campaign. Its objective seems clear: Remove Renato Corona as Chief Justice to pave the way for a politically unimpeded prosecution of former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

The logic is that Corona, who was impeached by the Lower House last month on allegations of corruption and betrayal of public trust, had been protecting Mrs. Arroyo and her allies from prosecution.

The trial of the Chief Justice is crucial to the political stability and future of the country, because it puts to the test the integrity and independence of all three branches of government - the Executive (President Aquino), the Judiciary (CJ Corona), and the Legislative (the Lower House and the Senate).

At one point, the Corona trial sparked fears of a constitutional crisis, pitting the President against a Supreme Court where 12 of its 15 members were appointed by Arroyo.

But all these fears have been more than silenced by the effectiveness of Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, a genuine statesman who stands head and shoulders above this peers in probity, coherence, and objectivity.

The Senate has vowed to be impartial in this trial. It is a promise that has been successfully fulfilled so far, largely through the sterling leadership of the Senate President, whose experience and command of the law has prevented the trial from becoming a circus, much more a vendetta game of the ruling party against the current opposition.

And yet, it is quite ironic that many Filipinos seem oblivious to the goings on of the Corona impeachment trial. Initial man-on-the-street interviews show an obvious lack of public knowledge, much more public interest in this very crucial moment in our nation's history.

Faced with this apolitical tendency of our countrymen, we, the media, have our work cut and dried: We need to keep the public informed and interested in this trial. We need to find ways to explain this issue without diminishing its merits.

It is time we all fully understood our responsibilities. We, the media, cannot continue to let crucial events happen without engaging the larger citizenry. For the Filipino People: No more getting into things without thinking. No more eyes wide shut.

2012-01-19T01:22:00.004+10:00

Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival a big success

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - In a scale of 1-10, Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) chairman Albert Menez gave this year’s Ati-Atihan festival a rate of 8.

Although the Kalibo festival in honor of Senor Sto. Nino was a successful event, the festivities were never perfect, he said.

Menez said the Kasafi is riding high in the success of the holding of the Ati-Atihan festival due to fair weather, the increasing number of tourists and devotees and the gigantic support of sponsors and benefactors.

It was a far cry from 2011 event in terms of crowd numbers, this year’s festival had also lived up to its reputation as a premier festival in the region.

The Ati-Atihan contest Saturday was also an event that Kasafi believes went very well. There were more than 30 Ati tribes and a dozen individual Balik-Ati participants registered with Kasafi.

“A festival of this magnitude obviously had a fair share of problems and criticisms such as the zero vendors’ implementation. By next year’s festival, we know there are areas we can improve,” Menez said.

He lauded the volunteers and supporters, the unsung heroes of the festival, who contributed their experience, time, efforts and energy for the smooth operation of the festival events.

Menez said the Kasafi is preparing the festival’s financial statement to know where the money went within 60 days after the festival. Last year, the Kasafi submitted the financial statement of the festival operations in less than a week with a net income of P1.835 million.

The Ati-Atihan festival is an annual event that takes place on the third Sunday of January. Each year many come for the traditional street dancing and others come to enjoy the various events lined-up by Kasafi and the municipal government of Kalibo from January 9 to 15.

The festival enticed the tourists and pilgrims with a variety of events like the Ati-Ati Bazaar, Aklan Products Expo, photo contest, pageant night of Mutya ag Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan, art exhibit, Hala Bira Ati-Atihan nights, Aklan Festivals Parade and Higante contest, Kapuso Ati-Atihan night, Kaean-an sa Plaza, spiritual street dancing and sadsad panaad.

With smiles and soot smeared on their faces, the devotees embraced the paeapak or pahilot, 9-day novena, the dawn penitential procession and the traditional religious procession with their unwavering faith and devotion to the Holy Child.

2012-01-18T11:20:00.001+10:00

A perfect paradise gateaway

BY TET ANDOLONG / Businessmirror

Boracay Island was named the second top beach destination in the world for 2011 by travel web site Trip-Advisor. Boracay came in second only to Providenciales Island among 10 top beaches named in the 2011 Traveller’s Choice Beaches Awards. Providenciales is located in the Turks and Caicos group of islands in the Norh Atlantic Ocean.

Given the numerous awards and recognitions Boracay has received, it’s hard to believe that there are still many Filipinos who have not been to what many (foreigners, ironically) refer to as Paradise on Earth.

It only takes a 45-minute flight from Manila by plane (Southeast Asian Airlines or Seair, for short, has one of the fastest and best services to Caticlan Airport—the closest airport to Boracay) and a 15-minute boat ride to get to the island, so reaching the destination is now as easy and convenient as ever.

If the passage from Caticlan to Boracay is timed to perfection, one will be greeted by a breathtaking view of the beach nestled at the foot of a gradually sloping landscape embraced by sparkling crystal-clear waters and blue sky embellished with fantastic cloud formations. If one is lucky enough to catch the sunset, one will witness the sun’s rays beautifully beating down on the powdery white sand, colorful sailboats gliding across a bright orange horizon.

Set in the heart of Boracay’s vibrant culture and warm atmosphere is the Boracay Mandarin Island Hotel, which is situated in the center of White Beach Station 2 and conveniently located just two minutes away from D’ Mall, food outlets, clothing stores and other activity centers, rendered in a modern Filipino design that captivates the essence of luxurious living in a tropical island setting.

The “Triple-A”-rated beachfront resort has 52 luxurious rooms and suites with verandas, each with its own special wall carving by artist Joey Esturis, as well as an outdoor pool that overlooks the pristine shoreline.

The Ambassador Suite Living Room is a complete room with first-class amenities that include a top-of-the-line entertainment system that features widescreen television, iPod dock and high-quality speakers installed in the lounging area. The Ambassador Suite Bedroom, on the other hand, is a two-room suite furnished with a king-sized canopy bed, a spacious lounging area, a private bar and a Jacuzzi. Special requests for rose petals on the bed, bouquets, breakfast in bed, personalized menus and other services can always be arranged at the hotel to make anyone’s stay more memorable.

The Grand Deluxe Poolside Rooms, which are located in the center of the first floor, are furnished with a king-sized canopy bed and a tatami mat for in-room massage services. Aside from the amenities, a specialized bathroom with separate bathtub and shower is included. The rooms are just a few steps from the hotel swimming pool, as well as the children’s pool.

The Deluxe Family rooms, meanwhile, are located on the inner wing of the first floor and are furnished with two bedrooms. The outer rooms are equipped with a queen and a twin bed, while the inner rooms are equipped with a queen bed. Each room, which can accommodate up to five persons, is also equipped with standard room amenities that include complimentary bottles of mineral water, minibar, coffee- and tea-making facilities, as well as complete Toto porcelain bath fixtures, bathrobes, split-type air conditioner, refrigerator, cable television, electronic safe, high-speed broadband Internet access, soundproof Kenneth and Mock windows, and an outdoor lounging area.

Those who prefer to spend time in the hotel premises will appreciate the 24-hour room service; business center, free high-speed broadband Internet access, wheelchair-friendly facilities and surround piped-in music. Comfort and security for its guests are monitored at the establishment through hotel-wide CCTV cameras.

Mandarin Boracay takes pride in its famous restaurants. Don Vito Ristorante Italiano offers abundant Italian fare every day. Passersby can always be seen stopping in their tracks to savor the aroma of wood-fire oven-baked pizzas and freshly grilled sea fare that playfully wafts through the restaurant’s doors that open out into the sea. Also to die for is Don Vito’s Gelato (Italian ice cream), which is good to beat the heat in Boracay. Right across Mandarin Boracay’s façade is its open-air restaurant by the beach, which is a fresh seafood bar-cum-dampa called Buco’s Bar and Grill, which also features live bands that play from 7 p.m. until midnight on a daily basis.

Both restaurants, including the main kitchen, are handled by 49-year-old Executive Chef Alfredo Decena, whose vast experience includes more than 20 years of experience at the Royal Caribbean, Manila Peninsula, Saudi Arabia, The Bermuda Triangle and Red Coconut in Boracay. Decena cooks Italian, French, German, Asian fusion and Filipino. He also specializes in fruit carvings. “Our 100-percent Angus beef steaks are always served hot out of the grill and we serve only fresh seafood such as lobsters, prawns, fish and oysters, cooked any way our guests like it,” Decena explained. “To satisfy the whole family, generous portions meant for sharing are standard here at Don Vito.”

Mandarin Boracay also has one of the best spas on the island. Foot Spa Lounge is furnished with top-of-the-line leather recliners for ultimate comfort. Guests can have their feet pampered with cleaning and massaging treatment for total relaxation, as well as facial treatment and other spa services while looking out through a glass-view window.

The hotel also has a function room that can accommodate up to 150 persons and is equipped with high-power flush ceiling loudspeakers, high-speed broadband Internet access, an LCD projector, high-powered output amplifiers, technical support, white board and other accessories—perfect for seminars, events, etc. For greater versatility, the space can also be divided into three smaller breakout rooms.

The guests can have every need at their fingertips, especially if they stay at the Mandarin, where almost anything can be arranged. The hotel can arrange private transfers as well as trips to nearby islands such as the Laurel Island, Puca Island and Crystal Cove aboard a yacht through its partner Raffy Mañova. Aside from watersports activities, trekking and ATV driving to Mount Luho, Zorb experience, kite surfing and helmet diving are also available on the island.

2012-01-17T09:14:00.001+10:00

Sto. Niño prominent in many Phl festivals

BY CARMELA G. LAPEÑA, GMA News

The Holy Child Jesus is believed around the world to be a miracle worker, and devotees can be found in many places, including Spain, Mexico and Peru. In the Czech Republic, there is the Infant of Prague, a statue believed to have been brought as a wedding gift to a Spanish woman who married a Czech nobleman. In Mexico, the Holy Child has many titles, the most famous being El Santo Niño de Atocha. In Rome, there is the Santo Bambino di Ara Coeli.

In the Philippines, the year begins with a month-long tribute to the Holy Child Jesus. All over the country, devotees to the Sto. Niño carry images in processions, offer flowers and dress the statue. The celebration peaks around the third Sunday of the month, which marks the Feast of the Sto. Niño in the Philippines.

"Reverence to Sto. Niño should be put into practice by showing respect and appreciation for life," said Fr. Conegundo Garganta of the Episcopal Commission on Youth.

Although Church officials urge devotees to focus on the spiritual aspect of these celebrations, many if not all are not only religious feasts but cultural events as well, including the famous Sinulog Festival in Cebu City, where the vibrant colors and endless sights attract visitors from all over the world.

Held annually on the third Sunday of January, the festival is a must-see dance ritual, which honors the Filipino's pagan past and embraces their Christianity. According to historical accounts, when the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan arrived in 1521, he presented a wooden Santo Niño to the wife of Rajah Humabon, Cebu's chieftain. This image became the symbol of friendship between the natives and the Spanish conquerors, who converted most of the country to Christianity.

The statue was housed in the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño and San Nicholas de Tolentino church, and is brought out in a fluvial parade every year during the Sinulog, which translates to "graceful dance."

Ati-Atihan

Kalibo, Aklan

3rd Sunday of January

Locals as well as tourists are invited to smear their faces with soot and pretend to be Aetas in this annual festivity, which is known to be a fun-filled and unforgettable experience. Benny Tirazona writes in "Whence Came Kalibo Ati-Atihan" that the history of the Ati-Atihan begins in 1212, when Borneans led by Datu Puti decided to escape from Sultan Makatunaw's tyrannical rule. They crossed the seas on boats called "baeangays," and landed in Panay Island. It was there that they settled peacefully with Ati Chieftain Marikudo. They celebrated the event by smearing themselves with soot to look like their new friends, the Aetas.

Among the Bornean settlers was Datu Bangkaya, who established Madyanos, which is known today as Kalibo, Aklan. When Fray Andres de Aguirre baptized 1,000 inhabitants of the town in 1750, the event coincided with the Ati-Atihan feast. Since then, the festival has become significant not just historically but in a religious context as well.

2012-01-16T02:34:00.001+10:00

Black Beauty Boys, Tribu Parola, Scorpio 9-11 declared winners in Kalibo Ati-Atihan contest

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Black Beauty Boys was declared champion in the Tribal Big category to claim the grand prize of P150,000 in the tribe contest of the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan festival this year.

The grand winner, also last year's Ati-Atihan contest champion from Linabuan Norte, Kalibo, Aklan, bested eight other tribe entries for the biggest purs

e in the history of Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival contest.

Kabog from Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan came in second for P80,000 and Tribu Responde of New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan emerged third placer for P50,000.

The consolation prizes were given to Lord Eagles of Dumga, Makato, Aklan; Tribu Bukid Tigayon of Tigayon, Kalibo, Aklan and Tribu Tiis-Tiis of New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan for P10,000 each.

Other entries in the Tribal Big category were Maharlika of Dumga, Makato, Aklan; Pangawasan Tribe of Makato, Aklan and D’Kamanggahan Tribe of Poblacion, Makato, Aklan.

The perennial champion in the modern group category - Scorpio 11-19 of Kalibo, Aklan took home P50,000, Aeang-Aeang Group of Laguinbanua, Numancia, Aklan emerged as first runner-up for P25,000 and Samahan ng Kababaihan Bayan ng Kalibo, Inc. (SKBK) of New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan in third place with P15,000 cash prize.

The newcomers - Pilgrimage of Pook, Kalibo, Aklan and The Andagao City of Andagao, Kalibo, Aklan received the consolation prizes of P5,000 each in the modern group category. Other competing tribes were Jimzon Group of Pusiw, Numancia, Aklan and D’Emagine of Kalibo, Aklan.

For the Tribal small category, the out-of-town entry Tribu Parola from Daja, Banga, Aklan was this year’s champion for the top prize of P60,000 followed by Tribu Ninolitos of Tigayon, Kalibo, Aklan with P40,000 cash prize for second place.

Tribu Alibang-bang of Linabuan Norte, Kalibo, Aklan came in third place for P30,000. Consolation prizes for P8,000 each were awarded to Tribu Tipon-Tipon of Ibao, Lezo, Aklan; Tribu Eam-ang of Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan and Morongga Tribe of New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan.

Other tribes in the small group category were Lezo Tribe of Ibao, Lezo, Aklan and Tribu Tigpalas of Tigpalas, Malinao, Aklan.

Meanwhile, Lilo-anong Ati nga Mananggeti of Lilo-an, Malinao, Aklan won the Balik-Ati category for P50,000 while Malipayong Ati of San Roque, Malinao, Aklan was adjudged second place for P25,000. Tribu Isalacan, also of Lilo-an, Malinao, AKlan, was in third place for P15,000.

The consolation prize winners for Balik-Ati category were Kinantuing of San Roque, Malinao, Aklan and Tribu Ilayanhon of Liloan, Malinao, Aklan for P5,000 each. Other participating tribes were Anono-o Group and Tribu Maninikop of Briones, Kalibo, Aklan; Tribu Bakhaw Sur of Bakhaw Sur, Kalibo, Aklan and Apo ni Inday of Calangcang, Makato, Aklan.

The winners in the Individual Balik-Ati category were Butterfly Queen (Frankelyn Abelarde), Fantastica (Jomar Melgar), Balahibong Manok (Mario Temparosa), Authentic Peacok (Rio Traje) and Ati Amazona (Noel Trance). They received P3,000 each.

The winners of the Ati-Atihan contest on Saturday were selected by eleven judges chosen by festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) for the 2012 Kalibo Ati-Atihan.

2012-01-16T01:23:00.002+10:00

Beloved Child

BY AC DIMATATAC and BERNARD TESTA

It was a festive Sunday for most as many people celebrated festivals associated with the Santo Niño, or the child Jesus, in Metro Manila, Cebu and in Kalibo, Ati-Atihan, where what’s described by some as the mother of all Philippine festivals, is held.

Mainly, the Ati-Atihan consists of a tribal dancing parade and ethnic music, accompanied by indigenous costumes and weapons.

Observed every third Sunday of January, it has people smearing themselves with charcoal or any black substance to look like Aetas.

The name Ati-Atihan means "to be like Aetas" or "make believe ati's". It is estimated to begun in the 13th century, when a group of Malay chieftains or "datus" fled from Borneo and were accepted by the Ati's, the early settlers in Panay Island.

This festival celebrates the sealing of a peaceful pact between two different races and cultures. It became a religious feast in 1750, when a companion priest of Fray Andres Urdaneta and explorer Miguel Lopez de Legaspi baptized, in a single day, 1,000 inhabitants of the town and surrounding settlements in the place. Since then its been celebrated with masses and novenas to their Patron Saint Sto. Niño.

As time went on, people added various other features to the festival, including the Ati-Atihan dance and the use of creative masks instead of charcoal.

People from other provinces and even Manila visit Kalibo just to participate in the lively street dancing and witness the creativity of the costumes and props of the locals and the Aetas themselves.

Many devotees also flock to churches to attend the masses and novenas, believing that they will be blessed by the miraculous power of the Sto. Niño.

The Sunday mass homily, meanwhile, exhorts the faithful to deepen and mature in their faith, so it “doesn’t remain as young as the child Jesus,” who eventually grew old and matured to prepare him for the ultimate sacrifice of Calvary.

Outside of Aklan, the nationwide celebrations usually feature nine-day novena/masses in honor of the Holy Child or Sto. Niño; grand processions of images of the Holy Child in various incarnations – as a shepherd boy, as the keeper of the world, or as a sleeping child.

In Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, the small Sto. Niño Parish in Barangay Libertad has been celebrating the rich colorful tradition of street dancing in honor of the child Jesus for the past 25 years. Hundreds of thousands attended the celebration this year amidst the heat, then followed by heavy rains, with the performers from the different groups and devotees -- all wet and muddy -- staying on and participating in the festivity from start to finish, and calling the rain a blessing and a sign of a long fruitful year ahead.

Among the other colorful festivals frequented by tourists are the Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, Aklan, and Sinulog Festival in Cebu City (3rd Sunday); the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City (4th weekend); the Binanog Festival in Lambonao, Iloilo, and Sinulog (Kabangkalan) Festival in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental (2nd Sunday); and the Sto. Niño Festival in Malolos, Bulacan (last Sunday of January) among others.

2012-01-15T11:57:00.004+10:00

Feast of the Sto. Nino

The Feast of the Santo Niño is like an extended Christmas for Filipinos not only in the Philippines but in many parts of the world. The third Sunday of January has been specially approved by the Holy See as the date of the Feast of the Santo Niño or the Holy Child.

The devotion to the Holy Child finds its roots in the beginnings of Christianity on our land. It is said that when Ferdinand Magellan and his companions set their foot on our soil, they brought with them the image of the Santo Niño. Magellan gave the image to Queen Juana of Cebu as a baptismal gift.

Like the image of the Holy Child in Prague, this image is adorned with a red robe and the Child Jesus holding the globe on his left hand and a scepter on the right. In our country today, there are many variations of this image and we find them almost everywhere – in houses, offices, business establishments, stores, schools, etc.

The Opening Prayer in today’s liturgy states: “Christ humbled Himself as a Child in Nazareth and became subject to Mary and Joseph. Grant that we may learn from His example to embrace your will in all things and, holding fast to the dignity of all, serve our lowly brothers and sisters with open hands and gentle heart.” The readings in the liturgy speak about the abundant joy that Christ brought with His coming to us as one like us.

The First Reading is from the book of the prophet Isaiah talks about the joy that the Messiah would bring to the people of God: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone. In the Gospel reading (Mark 10:13-16), Jesus says: “Let the children come to Me. Do not prevent them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.”

As we celebrate the Feast of Santo Niño, let us be reminded that true joy will be experienced by those who truly focus their gaze on Jesus Christ who is the light of all nations. And in focusing our gaze on Him, we will all be inspired to be like Him in His humility and obedience to God. Like a child, let us all approach Jesus with hearts filled with joy and love.

2012-01-15T07:32:00.004+10:00

Kalibo Ati-Atihan celebration finale

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - The final hurrah for the 2012 Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival kicks off on January 15, commemorating the 'Kaadlawan' of the Feast of the Sto. Nino.

A pilgrims' mass will be celebrated by Kalibo Bishop Jose Corazon Tala-oc in front of the Saint John the Baptist Cathedral and the local clergy in the province of Aklan at 7 a.m.

Tribes, visitors and devotees will also grace the much-awaited mass in honor of Senor Sto. Nino in the early morning of Sunday.

The traditional merrymaking and street dancing of pilgrims, devotees and tourists in the major streets follows after Mayor William Lachica shouts "Viva kay Senor Sto. Nino" and raise the image of Sto. Nino to the wild beat of the drums.

Earlier, thirty-three tribes participated in the Ati-Atihan contest in the Balik-Ati, modern, Tribal Big and Small Categories.

The grand winners will be announced tonight (January 15) by festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) at the Hala Bira Ati-Atihan Night at Kalibo Magsaysay Park.

At 3 p.m. the spiritual religious procession where dance contingents and their karos of the images of Senor Sto. Nino walks their way at the main streets of Kalibo for the six-hour procession and street dancing.

The procession route will start at Saint John the Baptist Cathedral through C. Laserna Street and M. Laserna Street, turn right to Acevedo Street, turn left to Desposorio Maagma, turn left to Mabini Street, turn left to Roxas Avenue, turn left Pastrana Street and turn right to Archbishop Reyes Street straight to the church.

The parish of Saint John the Baptist has urged the devotees to preserve the true essence of the Feast of Sto. Nino, adding, this is very essential for the coming generation.

Other activities of the weeklong celebration were Aklan Products Expo, visual art exhibit, photo contest, search for Mutya and Lakan of Kalibo Ati-Atihan, 9-day novena, paeapak/pahilot, dawn penitential procession, sadsad panaad of schools, colleges and civic groups, Ati-Atihan bazaar, fireworks display, Aklan Festivals parade and Higante contest.

Meanwhile, security measures are in place to secure the festival as thousands of devotees and balikbayans will flock the streets and festival venues today to celebrate the 'Kaadlawan of Senor Sto. Nino", the police said.

Dubbed the 'grandmother of all festivals," the Kalibo Ati-Atihan is celebrated every third Sunday of January of street dancing, merrymaking of no equal and unwavering devotion to the Holy Child.

2012-01-14T07:29:00.002+10:00

Ati-Atihan street dancing today

BY BOY RYAN ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan — It will be a colorful and lively Saturday for spectators and devotees as 33 tribes showcase artistically crafted costumes and groove to the beat of the drums in this year’s Kalibo Ati-Atihan Tribal Street Dancing Contest.

Thousands of pesos worth of prizes are up for grabs for the winning tribes in the Tribal Big, Tribal Small, Balik-Ati and Modern categories.

A panel of 11 judges will choose the champions and runners-up among the contesting tribes based on their adherence to the original Ati-Atihan dance steps and drumbeats, and the uniqueness and artistry of their costumes.

Participants in the Tribal Big category are Black Beauty Boys of Brgy. Linabuan Norte (defending champion); Kabog of Brgy. Estancia; Tribu Responde and Tribu Tiis-Tiis of Brgy. New Buswang; and Tribu Bukid Tigayon of Brgy. Tigayon.

Four competitors from outside of the town in the same category include Pangawasan Tribe of Makato town; D’Kamanggahan Tribe of Brgy. Poblacion, Makato; and Maharlika and Lord Eagles of Brgy. Dumga, Makato.

The competing tribes in the Tribal Small category are Tribu Alibangbang of Brgy. Linabuan Norte; Morongga Tribe of Brgy. New Buswang; Tribu Eam-ang of Brgy. Estancia; and Tribu Ninolitos of Brgy. Tigayon.

Among the out-of-town tribes in Tribal Small are Tribu Tipon-Tipon and Lezo Tribe of Brgy. Ibao, Lezo; Tribu Parola of Brgy. Daja, Banga; and the new Tribu Tigpalas of Brgy. Tigpalas, Malinao.

Entries in the Balik-Ati category include Tribu Isalacan, Lilo-anong Ati nga Mananggeti, and Tribu Ilayanhon of Brgy. Liloan, Malinao; Malipayong Ati and Kinantuing of Brgy. San Roque, Malinao; Apo ni Inday of Brgy. Calangcang, Makato; Anono-o Group and Maninikop Group of Brgy. Briones; and Tribu Bakhaw Sur of Brgy. Bakhaw Sur.

For the Modern category, the contestants are Scorpio 9-11 of Kalibo; Aeang-Aeang Group of Brgy. Laguinbanua, Numancia; D’Emagine of Kalibo; Samahan ng mga Kababaihan Bayan ng Kalibo Inc. of Brgy. New Buswang, Kalibo; Pilgrimage of Brgy. Pook; The Andagao City of Brgy. Andagao; and Jimzon group of Brgy. Pusiw, Numancia.

The champion in the Tribal Big category will bring home P150,000. The first runner-up will receive P80,000, while the second runner-up will get P50,000.

Tribal Small category champion will get P60,000. The first runner-up takes P40,000 while the second runner-up will have P30,000.

In the Balik-Ati category, the grand winner will receive P50,000. The first runner-up gets P25,000 while the second runner-up brings home P15,000. Two consolation prizes — P5,000 each — will also be given out.

Modern category winners will get P50,000 (champion), P25,000 (first runner-up), and P15,000 (second runner-up).

Winners in all categories will be announced tomorrow in the Hala Bira! Ati-Atihan Night at the Kalibo Magsaysay Park.

2012-01-14T02:21:00.001+10:00

Kalibo Ati-Atihan tribes ready for street dancing competition

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – All are excited to witness the Ati-Atihan street dancing contest of 33 tribes in this year’s Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan festival on January 14.

The winners in all categories will be known on Sunday’s Hala Bira Ati-Atihan Night at the Kalibo Magsaysay Park, the festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) said.

Eleven judges were chosen by Kasafi’s committee on Tribe Contest to select the big-time winners in the modern, Balik-Ati, individual, Tribal Big and Small categories.

The contest judges will be ready to judge the participating tribes in a ‘free-wheeling’ celebration of the Kalibo Ati-Atihan around the designated festival zone.

All tribes will showcase the original festival’s dance steps and drumbeat and their unique and colorful tribe uniforms to preserve the identity of the “grandmother of all festivals” – the Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival.

A whooping P150,000 cash prize awaits the winner in the Tribal Big category. The nine competing tribes are Maharlika, Tribu Tiis-Tiis, Black Beauty Boys, Pangawasan Tribe, Kabog, Tribu Bukid Tigayon, Tribu Responde, D'Kamanggahan Tribe and Lord Eagles.

The second placer will receive P80,000 and the third placer P50,000 in cash prizes in the centerpiece contest of the festival.

The nine tribes in Balik-Ati category are Kinantuing, Tribu Ilayanhon, Tribu Bakhaw Sur, Tribu Isalacan, Lilo-anong Ati nga Mananggeti, Apo ni Inday, Maninikop Group, Malipayong Ati and Anono-o Group. The grand winner will receive P50,000, first runner-up P25,000 and third placer P15,000.

The eight tribes of Tribu Alibangbang, Morongga Tribe, Tribu Eam-ang, Tribu Ninolitos, Tribu Tipon-Tipon, Lezo Tribe, Tribu Parola and Tribu Tigpalas comprised the Tribal small category. The grand winner will get P60,000, second placer P40,000 and third placer P30,000.

Seven tribes in the modern category – The Andagao City, Scorpio 9-11, Pilgrimage, Aeang-Aeang Group, D'Emagine, Samahan ng mga Kababaihan Bayan ng Kalibo, Inc. (SKBK) and Jimzon group will compete for the P50,000 cash prize.

The first runner-up will receive P25,000 and the second runner-up P15,000 reward.

There are 12 participants in the individual category for the Ati-Atihan contest. They are Fantastica, Princess Metallica, Diosa Mystika, Balik-Ati Group, Balahibong Manok, Butterfly Queen, El Sto. Nino de Kalibo, Absurongsung, Authentic Peacock, Indigenous Mystiqua, Ati Amazona and Climate Change.

Prior to the judging contest on Saturday, the festivities will kick off with a dawn penitential procession in observance of the most celebrated festival in the country.

2012-01-14T00:31:00.000+10:00

Echoes From

BY JOHNNY DAYANG

What about the painted man?

It is a general view that this year, 2012, is going to be a banner year for tourism in the Philippines.

Already the industry is off to a heady start, with the unveiling of the Department of Tourism's "It's more fun in the Philippines" slogan, which trended worldwide within hours after its posting on the internet.

Yes, things are indeed looking up for the tourism sector. My sources tell me that the Aquino administration is pursuing more tourism-oriented developments this year to promote the beauty of the Philippines and in the process, entice more tourists to visit our shores.

Expansion of the tourism sector, I am told, will be very evident in Cebu and other select Visayan cities, spurred by the brisk expansion of the Business Process Office (BPO) sector in the Visayan region.

Amidst all these bursts of much-awaited activity to promote tourism in the country, most especially in the Visayas region, it pains me to notice that it seems the province of Aklan has been reduced to the tiny island of Boracay, insofar as the Tourism Department and the national government is concerned.

Let me be clear on this: I welcome all the publicity on Boracay, what with my three children - Bernadette, Jed and Princess - being proud owners of Casa Dayang, one of many resorts in the island. But, ladies and gentlemen, Boracay is just one of the many top attractions of Aklan province.

Lest our friends in the Tourism department forget, Aklanons are equally proud of the Ati-Atihan, the first native festival that took the international scene by storm in the early 80's.

Ati-Atihan was there, long before the Sinulog, Dinagyang, Maskara, and other festivals became globally known.

The Ati-Atihan has been celebrated for more than 700 years, and marks the Christian conversion of the Atis or Aetas. Every third Sunday of January or on January 15 of this year, participants of the Ati-Atihan will once again paint their bodies black and execute the liveliest street dances to pay homage to the "Mother of All Festivals."

Surely, the DOT can do better than just include the Ati-Atihan in their long list of holidays in the Philippines. How about a real celebration for Kalibo, Aklan's fabled painted man?

2012-01-13T00:04:00.009+10:00

Mulawin, Saguibin Festival dominate Ati-Atihan’s Higante contest and Aklan Festivals parade

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – The towns of Banga and Kalibo emerged victorious in the 2012 Higante Contest and Aklan Festivals Parade organized by the provincial government of Aklan.

Banga’s Saguibin Festival won the festival/cultural street dancing presentation to grab the prize of P10,000. The champion is represented by Tribu Tawo Tawo of Aguinaldo T. Repiedad Sr. Integrated School of Linabuan Sur, Banga, Aklan.

Bayangan Festival of Lezo, Aklan also emerged as first runner-up for P7,000 in cash prize and the Bariw Festival of Nabas, Aklan settled for third place with P5,000.

Bayangan (from Aklanon word ‘Bayang’ or to potter) and Saguibin festivals were both launched last year in the towns of Lezo and Banga. Consolation prizes of P2,000 each were also given to contingents from Malinao Ati-Atihan, Libacao Kali-Ugyon Festival, Batan Ati-Atihan (Tribu ni Kalantiaw), Ibajay Ati Ati and Balete.

Meanwhile, the ‘Mulawin” of host town of Kalibo was adjudged grand champion for P40,000 in cash prize, besting other five entries in this year’s Higante Contest.

Mulawin, a race of humanoid birds in the GMA-7 fantasy-themed television series, had the winged hero Aguiluz, armed with a sword, riding on top of a giant eagle.

Maria Makiling of Malinao, Aklan won P35,000 for second place and Captain Barbel and Panday of Libacao, Aklan took home the third place award for P30,000.

The consolation winners are Enteng Kabisote of Balete, Aklan; Amaya of Banga, Aklan and Lastikman of Nabas, Aklan. They received P5,000 each in cash prizes.

The theme of the contest for this year’s Ati-Atihan Higante contest was “Pinoy Superheroes and Fictional Characters.”

‘BALIK-HIGANTE’ INDIVIDUAL CATEGORY

Balik-Higante entry from Malinao, Aklan ‘Pacman’ has proved itself as a grand winner in the individual category with P10,000 cash prize. Tagapalhi of Balete, Aklan placed second for P7,000 and Super Inday of Tangalan, Aklan won third place for P5,000.

Ati – Unga ni Reyna Maniwangtiwang was adjudged the lone consolation prize of P1,000.

The colorful event – Higante Contest and the Aklan Festivals Parade contingents began their street dancing competition on Thursday afternoon.

Thousands of spectators lined up the principal streets to witness one of the most-awaited events of the Kalibo Ati-Atihan. Despite the rains and inclement weather, the spirits of the street dancers remained high while devotees of Sto. Nino and visitors also braved the rains to celebrate the grand parade of Aklan festivals and the Higantes.

The annual event was witnessed by Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez, Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores, Aklan Provincial Tourism Council co-chairperson Anita Victoria Ramos-Antonino, Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) chairperson Albert Menez and the municipal mayors of Aklan.

2012-01-12T00:06:00.002+10:00

Ati-Atihan sa Kalibo exhibit @ Saylo Cuisine

BY BOY RYAN ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Everyone is invited to the painting exhibit, aptly called “Ati-Atihan sa Kalibo” starting January 13 at Saylo Cuisine.

The exhibit brings together a collection of paintings of Architect Jose A. Dureza inspired by the famous Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival.

Gathering 23 paintings in mixed media - watercolor, pastel, charcoal and acrylic, each and every stroke of Dureza’s paintings depict his devotion to the Sto. Nino, and his advocacy through art towards the appreciation of the Aeta people.

“The exhibit is an appreciation of the environment, the festivities that influenced it and the recognition of the Aetas brought to the fore after visiting an Aeta village in Malay last Christmas,” the artist said.

Dureza, from Roxas City and now lives in the fishing village of Cawayan, New Washington, Aklan, started painting as a hobby while practicing as architect in Bacolod City in early seventies.

He had exhibited his works "Images de France" in Manila after his travel grant from the French government in 1982.

He worked in Yemen in 1985 and with short working hours and unhampered by family responsibilities, he increased his productivity by painting in pastel. The demand grew for his watercolors from the expatriate community of Europeans, Americans, and Japanese. When not designing buildings for his airline employer, Dureza illustrated and wrote for the in-flight magazine.

In late 80’s, he moved his family to New Jersey only to find out that hiring in architecture and construction was getting scarce. He turned to painting portraits and more watercolors.

Dureza has also exhibited his masterpieces in the Philippine Centre in 1988. He has participated in several group shows in New York and New Jersey and won prizes in juried shows.

He is a member of the Hudson Artists, Inc. and an associate member of the New Jersey Watercolor Society.

Ati-Atihan sa Kalibo exhibit, a testament to Dureza’s passion to promote the Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival in honor of Senor Sto. Nino, is set on January 13 and continue on view through February 11 at Saylo Cuisine, Andagao, Kalibo, Aklan. Entrance is free.

2012-01-11T08:46:00.004+10:00

‘Let us not forget the religiosity of Kalibo festival’

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Despite the rains, students of Aklan State University (ASU) continue their Sadsad Panaad for Senor Sto. Nino on January 10 / PHOTO BY BOY RYAN ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Ready for Ati-Atihan 2012? In all the celebration, let us not forget the true spirit of religiosity of Kalibo festival.

Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez said the festival is one of the many times in the year that the godly Kalibonhons pauses from his daily toils to offer a prayer of thanks to the Sto. Nino.

“Though the celebration has evolved into a famous-festival and the mainstay of Kalibo’s tourism industry, it is still the Kalibonhon’s appointed day for a communion with God,” the governor said.

“Let us not forget that the Ati-Atihan is essentially a religious ceremony that can take us nearer to God and farther away from the materialism that has dedicated our present way of life,” he added.

Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo, for her part, urged everyone to strengthen and fortified the unwavering reverence and religious faith as to the Sto. Nino.

“Like everyone’s wish in Aklan, particularly that of a Kalibonhon, it is also the utmost desire of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan that the festival be restored to its original status as premier tourist attraction and the mother of all festivals in entire country,” she said.

Quimpo also commended the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) under the leadership of chairman Albert Menez for the management of festival since last year with marked improvements and innovative modules.

Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores said the celebration of the Feast of the Holy Child has defined and continues to define the Kalibonhons.

“The celebration in Kalibo has attained a unique festival spirit. For truly, the Kalibonhons know how to express their love and devotion to the Holy Child in whose loving protection and loving blessings they always pray for,” he said.

Miraflores said that “crisis and challenges may confront the Kalibonhons but it is their staunch collective faith in the Holy Child that enable them to stand victorious.”

“I bid all the devotees and tourists then a happy celebration. May the Holy Child continue to be a strong presence in our family and community lives as we collectively pursue our shared dreams of peace, unity and greater progress,” the solon added.

2012-01-10T15:50:00.006+10:00

Sacramento, California Ati-Atihan winners bared

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Filipinos abroad celebrate the Ati-Atihan event in honor of Senor Sto. Nino. Participants of Aklan Association of Sacramento and Vicinity, Inc. in revelry during the 21st Annual Ati-Atihan and Dance / PHOTOS BY ROBERT WALLAINE BANTIQUE

KALIBO, Aklan – The Aklan Association of Sacramento and Vicinity, Inc. (AASVI) announced the winners of the 21^st Annual Ati-Atihan and Dance held last January 7.

The yearly Ati-Atihan event of Filipino-Americans is celebrated every first Saturday of January in Florin Mall Drive in Sacramento, California.

Every year, hundreds of devotees and visitors gathered at Jose Rizal Community Center as they danced in revelry in honor of Senor Sto. Nino. The event was highlighted by paeapak or pahilot, holy mass and dancing of costumed tribes of participating community.

Filipino Womens Club was adjudged grand winner, the contingent from Igkampuran placed second and Tribu Waling Waling placed third.

Here are the complete results of the Sacramento Ati-Atihan event:

1st place Ati-Atihan - Filipino Womens Club

2nd Place Ati-Atihan - Igkampuran

3rd place Ati-Atihan - Tribu Waling Waling

Special awards:

Most participated - Igkampuran; Most colorful - Filipino Womens Club; Most original - Tribu Butbot; Most modern – Filipino Community of Sacramento and Vicinity; Most rowdiest - Igkampuran; Most unique - Tribu Waling-Waling; Most lively - Tribu Botbot and Most symbolic - Malinao Beauty.

The consolation awards were given to UP Alumni Association of Sacramento, Saint Catherine of Arayat, Pampanga and the Malinao kids.

Among the judges for the Ati-Atihan contest were Lilia Rivera, Dr. Fred Aquino, Guilly Fontillas, Dolores Diaz, Hazel Hernandez-Sheehy and Marie Uber.

2012-01-10T00:55:00.004+10:00

Kalibo Ati-Atihan Products Expo opens

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

DTI regional director Dominic Abad (right) leads the ribbon cutting ceremony for the formal opening of the 2012 Kalibo Ati-Atihan Products Expo at the Kalibo Pastrana Park. Assisting him are Kalibo mayor William Lachica (second from left) and Kalibo vice mayor Madeline Regalado (second from right) / PHOTOS BY BOY RYAN ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Aklan and the Hugod Aklanon Producers Association, Inc. are staging the Kalibo Ati-Atihan Products Expo 2012.

The trade fair opened on January 9 through the stewardship of DTI in collaboration with the municipal government of Kalibo through the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi).

This year, the event seeks to sustain competitiveness of Aklan micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) in the local market and provide opportunities to increase product exposure and generate additional sales.

DTI regional director Dominic Abad led the ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the formal opening of the trade fair on Monday afternoon.

Assisting Abad were Kalibo mayor William Lachica, Vice mayor Madeline Regalado, Provincial Administrator Atty. Diego Luces, DTI-Aklan provincial director Engr. Diosdado Cadena, Jr. and the Sangguniang Bayan members.

The products expo also showcased the unique, ingenuity and creativity of local entrepreneurs in the province of Aklan’s famous agri-aqua processed foods.

A total of 28 MSMEs are joining the trade fair and exhibit, which runs daily from 9:00 am to 8:30 pm until January 16 at the Kalibo Pastrana Park.

The trade fair coincides with the weeklong celebration of the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan festival. The event held here last year posted total sales of P1.3506 million compared to P1.307 million in 2010 and P1.040 million in 2009.

DTI-Aklan said the project will continuously aid in the promotion and development of the unique and trendy products of Aklan. It will also ensures the fashionable abaca, pina and raffia wearables and unique collection of gifts, housewares and furnishings made of nito, bamboo and wood will be featured this year.

Aside from showcasing the local products, other activities of the trade fair are skills demonstration and workshops on buri and bariw weaving, coco-based processing, fashion jewelry, pina hand embroidery and foot massage/relax.

2012-01-10T00:03:00.001+10:00

Tourism chief to join Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – It’s more fun in Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival.

Tourism secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr. is schedule to grace the 2012 Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival this coming January 14 to 15.

Jimenez will witness one of the colorful festivals in the region where thousands of devotees and visitors worldwide celebrate the unique festivities in honor of the miraculous Senor Sto. Nino.

This will be the first time the new tourism chief to attend the Ati-Atihan contest and the pilgrims’ mass in the Kaadlawan of the Feast of Sto. Nino.

Festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) said the tourism secretary has committed to witness the annual merrymaking and dancing of Ati-Atihan tribes.

Jimenez would be arriving at Kalibo International Airport in an early morning flight from Manila on January 14. After the street dancing, he will tour the Bakhawan Eco-Park, Pina Village, Dela Cruz House of Pina, Museo it Akean and the Aklan Products Showcase in Kalibo Pastrana Park.

He would depart Kalibo on January 15 after attending the Pilgrims’ Mass and the traditional religious procession.

Kalibo’s annual festival promises to showcase the best of Ati-Atihan festivities. The festival brings a week of colorful events to attract devotees and visitors from around the world.

2012-01-09T00:57:00.002+10:00

33 tribes to compete in Kalibo Ati-Atihan contest

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Thirty-three tribes are officially registered with the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) for this year's Kalibo Ati-Atihan contest. The deadline for registration of tribes ended on January 7, said Kasafi chairman Albert Menez.

A total of P704,000 in cash prizes and P744,000 financial assistance await the winners in modern, tribal big and small, modern and individual categories of the yearly Ati-Atihan contest. Last year, a total of 30 tribes competed for P415,000 in cash prizes from Kasafi.

Menez said the tribes, with their colourful and indigenous costumes, will be judged on January 14, 2012. All tribes must adhere to the age-old Kalibo Ati-Atihan dance steps and drumbeat during the street dancing while shouting in unison, ‘Viva kay Senor Sto. Nino”.

Vying for the grand prize of P150,000 for the Tribal Big category are defending champion Black Beauty Boys of Linabuan Norte, Kalibo, Aklan; Kabog of Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan; Tribu Responde and Tribu Tiis-Tiis of New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan and Tribu Bukid Tigayon of Tigayon, Kalibo, Aklan.

Four out-of-town tribes are also competing in the Tribal Big category, namely, Pangawasan Tribe of Makato, Aklan; D'Kamanggahan Tribe of Poblacion, Makato, Aklan and Maharlika and Lord Eagles of Dumga, Makato, Aklan.

The first runner-up for Tribal Big category will receive P80,000 and the second runner-up P50,000.

Seven Ati-Atihan groups are participating in the Modern category. They are 2011 grand winner Scorpio 9-11 of Kalibo, Aklan; Aeang-Aeang Group of Laguinbanua, Numancia, Aklan; D'Emagine of Kalibo, Aklan and Samahan ng mga Kababaihan Bayan ng Kalibo, Inc. (SKBK) of New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan. The new Ati groups in the Modern category are Pilgrimage of Pook, Kalibo, Aklan; The Andagao City of Andagao, Kalibo, Aklan and Jimzon group of Pusiw, Numancia, Aklan.

The modern category grand champion will receive P50,000, first runner-up P25,000 and the second runner-up will take home P15,000.

Entries for the Tribal Small category are Tribu Alibangbang of Linabuan Norte, Kalibo, Aklan; Morongga Tribe of New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan; Tribu Eam-ang of Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan and Tribu Ninolitos of Tigayon, Kalibo, Aklan.

Four out-of-town tribes are also joining the competition - Tribu Tipon-Tipon and Lezo Tribe of Ibao, Lezo, Aklan; Tribu Parola of Daja, Banga, Aklan and the new Ati group Tribu Tigpalas of Tigpalas, Malinao, Aklan.

The winner in the Tribal Small category will get P60,000, second placer P40,000 and third placer P30,000.

There are nine Ati groups in the Balik Ati category registered with Kasafi. They are Tribu Isalacan, Lilo-anong Ati nga Mananggeti and Tribu Ilayanhon of Liloan, Malinao, Aklan; Malipayong Ati and Kinantuing of San Roque, Malinao, Aklan and Apo ni Inday of Calangcang, Makato, Aklan.

Other Balik Ati tribes competing are Anono-o Group and Maninikop Group of Briones, Kalibo, Aklan; Tribu Bakhaw Sur of Bakhaw Sur, Kalibo, Aklan.

The Balik-Ati category grand winner will receive P50,000, second placer P25,000 and third placer P15,000. Two consolation prizes will also be awarded for P5,000 each.

2012-01-09T00:50:00.000+10:00

'Tamboe Salvo' opens 2012 Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - The beating of the drums and the street dancing of tribes for the 2012 Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival kicks off on January 9.

'Tamboe Salvo' starts at 3 p.m. for the opening of the yearly Ati-Atihan festival in honor of Senor Sto. Nino at the Kalibo Pastrana Park.

Kalibo parish priest Rev. Msgr. Jose Dollete will lead the blessing of event areas like Kalibo Ati-Atihan Products Expo, Kaean-an sa Plaza, Hala Bira Ati-Atihan Nights and 'Kultura Akean 3' exhibit at Museo it Akean, which will simultaneously open on January 9.

Invited local officials to grace the formal opening are Kalibo mayor William Lachica, Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez, Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores, Ang Kasangga Rep. Teodorico Haresco, Jr. and festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi).

The weeklong celebration is one of the popular festivals in the country where tribes in their colorful costumes, tourists and devotees carry images of the Sto. Ninos during the 'Kaadlawan' of the Feast of the Sto. Nino on January 15 for the traditional religious procession.

Other festival activities lined-up are spiritual street dancing, 9-day novena, pahilot/paeapak, higante party, pilgrims' mass, tribe contest, dawn penitential procession, higante contest and Aklan festivals parade, hornada, photo contest, fireworks display and search for Lakan and Mutya of Kalibo Ati-Atihan.

Local police has implemented the traffic rerouting plans and established police community centers in strategic areas to ensure the peaceful celebration of the festival.

Meanwhile, Vice President Jejomar Binay and Tourism secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr. have confirmed to join the people of Aklan to pay homage to the Senor Sto. Nino this week.

2012-01-08T11:21:00.005+10:00

Top bands perform in Kalibo Hala Bira nights

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Top Manila and Iloilo rock and reggae bands will take center stage in the weeklong Hala Bira Ati-Atihan nights at the Kalibo Magsaysay Park starting January 9 to 15.

Pop rock artist Tanya Markova performs live on January 9 with their carrier single 'Picture Picture." The band is composed of Edson Broce, Kix Chavez, Harlon Agsoay, Rhian Sabas, Angelo Del Pilar, Philipp Alejandro and EJ Guevarra.

Rock band Itchyworms composed of Jazz Nicolas (drums and lead vocals), Jugs Jugueta (guitar and lead vocals), Chino Singson (lead guitar/backing vocals), and Kelvin Yu (bass/backing vocal) will power up the Ati-Atihan night on January 10.

Catch the alternative rock band Rocksteddy band featuring Jeff Cucullo (drums), Christian Sindico (bass, vocals), Juven Pelingon (guitars) and It's Showtime mainstay Teddy Corpuz (lead vocals) on January 11.

Expect also an alternative and pop music night with 6 Cycle Mind on January 11 with Rhoneil Dimaculangan (lead vocals), Ryan Sarmiento (rhythm guitar, vocals), Carlos Isidro (lead guitar), Tito Fortunato Caringal (drums) and Bobby Canamo (bass).

Sandwich pinoy band, formed in 1998, will perform their award-winning rock hits like 'Sugod' and 'Betamax' with Raimund Marasigan, Diego Castillo, Mong Alcaraz, Myrene Academia and Mike Dizon on January 12.

Iloilo reggae band Katukamus will surely get the crowd singing on January 9 and 12. Major 7, High Tension and Remix bands will unleash their signature hits on January 13. Souled Out and Pretty Young Thing (PYT) invade Kalibo on January 14.

Other bands performing in the Hala Bira Ati-Atihan nights are Sallador band, Hot and Spicy, Broadband and Grupo Mari Teves from Bacolod.

Tickets priced at P50 and are available at the Kalibo Magsaysay gate and the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) office. The bands are sponsored by San Miguel Brewery Incorporated, Smart Communications and Coca Cola Bottlers Philippines.

Meanwhile, Kalibo Magsaysay Park also comes alive where 32 food concessionaires feature delicious food, friendly people and drinks.

2012-01-07T11:07:00.005+10:00

Kapuso stars to banner Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival on January 9

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Kapuso Network will bring some of its biggest and hottest stars to the Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival on January 9 at the Kalibo Pastrana Park.

Dubbed Kapuso Ati-Atihan Night, get the chance to watch Kapuso's lead stars of primetime

programs - hot and sexy Ehra Madrigal, actor Mark Herras of 'Time of my Life' danceserye , commercial model/actress Bubbles Paraiso and StarStruck V Ultimate Male Survivor Steven Silva.

Adding more energy to the roster of Kapuso stars are superstar Claudine Barreto and RnB singer and musical-variety show Party Pilipinas mainstay Kyla.

Activities begin at 5 p.m. after the 'Tamboe Salvo' opening program of the 2012 Kalibo Senor Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Festival.

This is the second year that the GMA-7 partnered with festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) and the municipal government of Kalibo to bring more fun and surprises to their fans.

“We are very excited to celebrate the first of the Philippine festivals this year with our Kapusong Aklanons. The Network is certain that this year’s Kapuso Night in Kalibo will be more festive as lots of our Kapuso stars celebrate with them,” said Oliver Amoroso, Assistant Vice President for Regional TV, in a statement.

Last year, the well-attended Kapuso night at Kalibo Pastrana Park featured Mark Herras and Rochelle Pangilinan of Sex Bomb Dancers.

GMA-7 said the highlights of this year's Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival can be seen in a TV Special airing via GMA Network’s eight (8) regional stations – Naga, Dagupan, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, and General Santos – on February 19.

2012-01-07T03:29:00.008+10:00

Mutya ag Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2012 winners proclaimed

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Ivy Rose Vidal is the 2012 Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan and Shem Regalado is named Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan / PHOTOS BY BOY RYAN ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Ivy Rose Vidal of Batan, Aklan was crowned Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2012 in a star-studded finale night organized by pageant organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) in Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports and Cultural Center on January 6.

Vidal, 22, another graduate of Garcia College of Technology, bested 15 other aspirants for the title. She replaces last year’s Mutya winner Caren Retamar Braun, also a Garcian student. The new Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan was voted Miss Photogenic and awarded Miss Juicy Cologne and Miss Creamsilk.

Liezl Dumaguin, 20, of Buruanga, Aklan, was picked first runner-up and 16-year old Fil-Lebanese Daisy Batch of Balete, Aklan came in third. Batch won a number of corporate awards for Miss Magnolia Light, Miss Silka, Miss E-Looks and Miss Ponds, special award for Miss Personality and minor award for Best in Vogue White.

Shem Regalado, 25, of Kalibo, Aklan was proclaimed Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2012, besting 15 other finalists for the much-coveted title. He was named Mr. Maribert Inland Resort, Mr. Axe and the minor award for Best in Malayan Barong.

Ramon Alexis Daguno, 22, representing Ibajay, Aklan settled for first runner-up and Elvin Tiel, 19, of Tangalan, Aklan placed second runner-up. Daguno received three minor awards – Best in Talent, Best in Swimwear and Best in Production Number, special award for Mr. Photogenic and two corporate awards for Mr. Black Water and Mr. Kapuso.

Among the judges this year were GMA-7 actress Bella Padilla, commercial model/actor Dennis Coronel, Miss Resorts World Manila 2011 first runner-up Ladylyn Riva, Department of Education Aklan Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Jesse Gomez, fashion designer Renee Salud, TV5 talent Jan Arnex Florece, Capiz province Vice Governor Esteban Evan Contreras II, 1987 Mutya it Aklan Jerly Trance Villaruel and Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Kalibo Branch manager Roscoe Rey Navarra.

The five-hour pageant was hosted by Gaynor Calizo and GMA-7 Ratsada reporter Rey Jason Gregorio. GMA-7 RnB singer and mainstay of Party Pilipinas Kris Lawrence also serenaded thousands of audience and the 16 Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan finalists with his song “Kung Malaya lang Ako’ and Bruno Mar’s Just the way you are.

A stylized opening production number featuring the Kasafi dance company and the 32 finalists dressed in Amazon look and Earth warriors’ attire started the pageant with lots of excitement while local singers Mary Krisdel Panadero and Melky Arboleda also took part in the opening numbers of the exciting pageant.

Before the winners were announced, tourism students of Jeju National University of South Korea showcased their dancing prowess. Also joining the crowning of the winners of Mutya it Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2012 were Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez, Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores, Kalibo mayor William Lachica, Kalibo vice mayor Madeline Regalado and Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Jose Enrique Miraflores.

MINOR AWARDS

The winners for the minor awards of the Mutya ag Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2012 were Best in Production Number – Arrah Julia dela Cruz / Ramon Alexis Daguno; Best in Swimsuit – Balyn Castro; Best in Talent – Ma. A-Rose Olive Joy Martinez / Ramon Alexis Daguno; Best in Interview - Flor Zorayda Reyes / Jan Erickson Menez; Best in Vogue White – Daisy Batch / Jewel Magalit; Best in Gown – Amanda Pilcher; Best in Malayan Barong – Shem Regalado and Best in Swimwear – Ramon Alexis Daguno

SPECIAL AWARDS

The winners for the special awards of the Mutya ag Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2012 were Photogenic - Ivy Rose Vidal / Ramon Alexis Daguno; Popularity – Leonard Lachica / Alea Kane Macavinta; Personality – Daisy Batch / Keisler Quintos; Miss La Esperanza Hotel – Olive Absalon and Miss Amity – Marifel Melgarejo

CORPORATE AWARDS

The winners of corporate awards for the Mutya ag Lakan ag Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2012 were:

Miss Globe – Liezl Dumaguin; Miss Ever Bilena – Balyn Castro; Miss GSM Blue and Miss Close up – Amanda Pilcher; Miss Silka, Miss E-Looks, Miss Ponds and Miss Magnolia Light – Daisy Batch; Miss Maribert Inland Resort – Alea Kane Macavinta; Miss Creamsilk and Miss Juicy Cologne – Ivy Rose Vidal; Miss Careline, Miss Kapuso, Miss Sunsilk and Miss Smart – Olive Absalon; Mr. Globe – Leonard Lachica; Mr. Smart – Fredrick Austin Arguelles; Mr. Maribert Inland Resort and Mr. Axe – Shem Regalado; Mr. Gran Matador – Elvin Tiel; Mr. Close up – Don Amiel Rogan; Mr. Master Eskinol – Jewel Magalit; Mr. Black Water and Mr. Kapuso – Ramon Alexis Daguno and Mr. E-Looks – Nixon Igtanloc

2012-01-06T22:58:00.000+10:00

Why Boracay is still a top holiday destination

BY GLENDA VILLENA

Some people say Boracay is already overrated. But why do people still flock to the island during the holidays?

Here's why:

1. The beaches. Boracay still has the bragging rights of having the finest, white, powder-like sand and cool blue ocean waters.

According to Henry Chusuey—owner of Boracay Garden Resort, a subsidiary of Henann Hotels and Resorts which operates Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa, Regency Lagoon and Henann Resort at Alona Beach, Bohol—that the Boracay Foundation (where he serves as chairman) ensures that the island is protected against abusive practices despite ongoing infrastructure developments.

2. The food. Boracay offers a gastronomical feast. There are a host of restaurants and eateries that offer a variety of dishes—from simple grilled island fare to fusion dishes. Bottom line: Your taste buds won't get "marooned" on this island.

3. The people. Filipino hospitality is widely practiced in Boracay. From the courteous hotel staff to locals you meet while walking from station to station, the smile you see is as warm and beautiful as the island paradise.

Tips on how to get the best holiday deals in Boracay

1. Look for special Christmas/holiday packages. Rates during the holidays in Boracay can get pretty steep but you can get the best value for your money without compromising luxury. Boracay Garden Resort for example, offers Christmas package for as low as P7,924 inclusive of four days accommodation , daily buffet breakfast and dinner plus roundtrip transfers via Caticlan.

2. Book your tickets early. Air travel is still the fastest and most convenient way to get to Boracay. Airlines are usually fully-booked during the holidays so it's best to have your seat secured as early as possible.

3. Travel in groups. Hotels and group activity rates in Boracay are much cheaper for group packages. As they say "The more the merrier!"

2012-01-06T07:42:00.003+10:00

All set for Lakan ag Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan coronation night

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - After several weeks of waiting, the best Mutya and Lakan of the Kalibo Ati-Atihan will walk away the coveted titles tonight at the Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports and Cultural Center.

The contest, which is officially called the Lakan ag Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan, will showcase the 16 beautiful women strutting down the catwalk in long gowns and swimsuit and the 16 Lakans in their Malayan inspired Barongs and swimwear.

The pageant hopefuls are Daisy Batch, Alea Kane Macavinta, Balyn Castro, Erika Evangelista, Cherry Belle Dioso, Therese Lachica, Amanda Pilcher, Ivy Rose Vidal, Jeso Solidum, Krisna-K Marcelino, Marifel Melgarejo, Flor Zorayda Reyes, Liezel Dumaguin, Arrah Julia dela Cruz, Olive Absalon, and Ma. A-Rose Olive Joy Martinez for the Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan.

The Lakan candidates are Don Amiel Rogan, Jewel Magalit, Fredrick Austin Arguelles, Elvin Tiel, Janzen Jontilano, Leonard Lachica, Keisler Quintos, Benedict John Romero, Jan Erickson Menez, Patrick Reyes, Nixon Igtanloc, Ken Cahilig, Filomar Conanan, Shem Regalado, Ramon Alexis Daguno and Christian Roldan.

Hosted by GMA-7 Ratsada reporter Rey Jason Gregorio and singer Gaynor Calizo, the annual search for the Mutya and Lakan is organized by the Kalibo Sto. Nino At-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) in partnership with the municipal government of Kalibo.

Reigning Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan Caren Retamar Braun and 2004 Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan Jefford Dionisio will crown their successor at the end of the event.

GMA-7 star Kris Lawrence will have the candidates on stage for a special serenade while tourism students of Jeju National University in Jeju, South Korea will perform a dance number. Other performers are the Kasafi dance company, Melky Arboleda and Mary Krisdel Panadero.

All Mutya candidates will parade on stage wearing their competition long gowns of fashion designer Rene Salud. Salud has designed gowns for several beauty pageants in the country.

Another celebrity Bella Padilla from Kapuso network will join the distinguished panel of judges tonight along with DepEd Aklan Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Jesse Gomez, Miss Resorts World Manila 2011 first runner-up Ladylyn Riva, TV5 talent/model Jan Arnex Florece, Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Kalibo branch manager Roscoe Rey Navarra, Capiz province Vice Governor Esteban Evan Contreras II, commercial model/actor Dennis Coronel, former Mutya it Aklan Jerly Trance Villaruel, fashion designer Rene Salud and Abegail Humady-Yap, first lady of Malay town.

2012-01-05T01:56:00.000+10:00

Boracay Bliss - Lemon I Cafe
BY ALEXANDRA ROCHA
As soon as the Christmas rush finished I hopped over to Boracay to get out of the city. I was determined to start the New Year well rested and refreshed – not to mention with a great tan and a tummy filled with delicious food.

The weather was flawless! I was there a total of five days and every day was sunny with blue skies! I was pleased to see that they have been making a conscious effort to clean up the beach too. It felt great to feel the cool powdery white sand beneath my feet, and to be able to live the carefree island life for a few days.
Gi and I were famished after our delayed flight and long bus ride from Kalibo to Caticlan so after settling into our rooms we headed to the first restaurant that caught our attention. We walked through D’mall, and Lemoni Café (most people know it better as Lemon Café) looked extremely inviting. The interiors were simple and elegant – clean, cream colored tables and chairs, and freshly cut flowers in mini vases.
Unfortunately they were packed for lunch so we made an early dinner reservation and walked across to Olé for fish tacos to hold us over till then. It was a big portion - two large tacos filled with a generous amount of fish, salsa, lettuce, and cheese. The fish was tender, and the spicy tomato salsa and lemon sour cream that accompanied the tacos were good. It was unfortunate that the chef had a heavy hand with the salt though, otherwise these would have been an excellent version of a non-traditional fish taco.
For dessert we walked over to Jonah’s famous fruit shakes in station one. Their Banana choco peanut shake is one of my favorite shakes around! It is the inspiration of my Banana Peanut Butter Ice Cream with Chocolate Chips for my ice cream business, Pinkerton. Each sip of the sweet, frozen, treat in the hot sunshine while sitting on the pristine white sand, looking out at the horizon and sparkling crystal clear waters made me think, "Life is good."
Dinner that night at Lemoni Café made the day even better. The food tastes very clean, fresh, and like it was cooked with love. Our main course choices: Seared tuna with sautéed spinach, lemon mash, tomato coulis, olive tartar. The second dish - grilled tiger prawns, served with spinach and coconut risotto. I must say both were extremely satisfying! I was impressed by the coconut risotto, which had great texture the creamy coconut flavor complimented the grilled tiger prawns. The tuna was indeed perfectly seared – the center was raw and pink, just how I like it. This dish was very hearty! The mashed potatoes were soft and dense with a subtle zing from the lemon. I was very content with it.
Dessert was also very satisfying. I ordered three different desserts to sample - lemon tart, caramel pot de crème, and a chocolate truffle. The lemon tart was divine - the rich custard filling was tangy, the way any lemon tart should be. Its crust, light and crumbly. The caramel pot de crème was ridiculously good. It was dense and smooth, as if it were a cross breed of dulce de leche, panna cotta and leche flan. Each spoonful had me swaying in blissful delight! The chocolate truffle was decent; it was very decadent, definitely for a chocolate lover. I suggest the other two desserts over this one though.
Several days later Gi and I returned to Lemoni Café. For brunch this time - their brunch menu boasts of several hollandaise topped poached eggs dishes, and freshly baked bread. Therefore making it too tempting to resist. Our brunch order consisted of smoked tangigue over freshly baked bread, poached egg, spinach, and hollandaise sauce; a classic ham, cheese, mushroom omelette; and yogurt with granola, fresh mango, and Palawan honey.
Everything was simple, and fulfilling. They do eggs and hollandaise right. The yogurt and granola was one of the best I’ve had. This is a very safe place to eat at when in Boracay - satisfaction guaranteed! There is something for everyone. The restaurant has been described as "Boracay’s most refreshing restaurant" and has been awarded as one of the best restaurants in the Philippines. I am inclined to agree.

2012-01-05T00:17:00.001+10:00

Mutya ag Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan aspirants getting ready for the January 6 pageant night

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – The much-awaited pageant coronation night of the Lakan ag Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2012 is on.

All thirty-two gorgeous candidates will gather at the Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports and Cultural Center for the red letter date on January 6 at 7 p.m.

This year marks the second edition for the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) to organize a beauty pageant to spice up the yearly celebration of Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival.

Wearing elegant long gowns created by the country’s top fashion designer Renee Salud, the lovely candidates will strut in style down the catwalk before a panel of judges. Sixteen Lakan aspirants will also battle it out in their Malayan inspired Barong with their exceptional charm and brawn.

Watch the opening production number – an interpretative ethnic dance of the Kasafi dance company dressed in Amazon look and Earth warriors’ attire and a serenade of the candidates by GMA-7’s Party Pilipinas Kris Lawrence.

The reigning Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan Caren Retamar Braun will also take her final walk and crown her successor during the final event.

AWARDS

Aside from the awards Best in Swimsuit, Best in Talent, Best in Interview, Best in Voque White and Best in Production Number, awards for Mr. and Miss Photogenic and Mr. and Miss Personality will be handed out for the winners.

The corporate awards are Miss Globe, Miss Coke Light, Miss Smart, Miss Ever Bilena, Miss GSM Blue, Miss Skin White, Miss Juicy Cologne, Miss Silka, Miss Extraderm, Miss E-Looks, Miss Maribert Inland Resort, Miss Close up, Miss Ponds, Miss Sunsilk and Miss Creamsilk for the Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan.

Awards for Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan are Mr. San Mig Coffee, Mr. Globe, Mr. Black Water, Mr. Smart, Mr. E-Looks, Mr. Real Leaf, Mr. Maribert Inland Resort, Mr. Gran Matador Light, Mr. Close up and Mr. Master Eskinol.

JUDGES

The organizer of this pageant officially named the list of judges for the final competition. The ten jury members are commercial model and actor Dennis Coronel, Miss Resorts World Manila 2011 first runner-up Ladylyn Riva, former Mutya it Aklan Jerly Trance Villaruel, Capiz province Vice Governor Esteban Evan Contreras II and model Jan Arnex Florece.

Other judges are DepEd Aklan Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Jesse Gomez, Malay town first lady Abegail Humady-Yap, Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Kalibo branch manager Roscoe Rey Navarra, fashion designer Renee Salud and GMA-7 actress Bella Padilla.

Gaynor Calizo and Rey Jason Gregorio will be hosting the grand coronation night with special performances from local singers like Merky Arboleda and Mary Krisdel Panadero and the Kasafi dance company.

‘BIG-TIME WINNERS’

The winner at the Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan will bring home P30,000 cash prize, overnight stay at Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa, a set of jewelry from ALG Pawnshop and Jewelry, one year scholarship grant from STI Kalibo College, overnight stay at Manila Airport Hotel, round trip tickets for Kalibo-Manila from Anne Lukban of Manila Travel and Tours, cell phone kit from Nokia and a laptop from former Mutya it Aklan Jerly Trance Villaruel.

The first runner-up for Mutya and Lakan will receive P20,000 and P10,000 cash prizes, respectively and an overnight stay at Boracay Tropics, cell phone kit from Samsung and one year scholarship grant from Aklan Polytechnic College.

The second runner-up for Mutya competition will also receive P10,000 cash prize and overnight stay at Boracay Holiday Resort while the Lakan second runner-up winner will get P5,000 in cash and an overnight stay at Villa de Oro Boracay Beach Resort.

Both winners will receive a cell phone kit from Kok’s de Kalibo and college scholarship assistance from Garcia College of Technology.

Meanwhile, the proclaimed grand winner for Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan will get P15,000 cash prize and an array of prizes such as overnight stay at Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa and Manila Airport Hotel, one year scholarship grant from STI Kalibo College, round trip tickets for Kalibo-Manila from Anne Lukban of Manila Travel and Tours and cell phone kit from Nokia.

2012-01-04T07:15:00.002+10:00

Church, gov’t officials set to welcome devotees to Feast of Sto. Nino

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – All roads led to the town of Kalibo for the annual Feast of Sto. Nino.

Held every third Sunday of January, thousands of devotees and tourists would flock to the streets to celebrate the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan festival.

Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Guiseppe Pinto led well-wishers of the religious festivities, saying, “for centuries, the simple and profound devotion to the Holy Child has gathered and united God’s people in the Philippines in their journey toward an intensified faith, hope and love.”

“May the Senor Sto. Nino continue to transform the Aklanons, and all who join them in giving homage to the Lord, to be more and more like him, of whom the Father is well pleased. May he mould the, to become His true disciples. In the name of the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI, I greet and bless of you,” the Papal Nuncio added.

Mayor William Lachica, in his message, said the festival is a blend of mundane pleasures and religious fervor where devout Catholics from all walks of life coming from everywhere come to Kalibo to celebrate and kiss the Santo Nino.

Lachica said, “its Santo Ati-Atihan time in Kalibo when drums started to beat with the familiar rhythmic sounds and lyres played the famous song,”Happy Days are Here Again,” coupled with the hilarious shouts of Hala Bira and Viva kay Senor Sto. Nino.”

The mayor said that more innovations and improvements, the 2011 Kalibo Ati-Atihan celebration as the yardstick, will be introduced to make the forthcoming festival more enjoyable and hilarious to everyone.

“The innovations that were introduced in 2011 also made the festival celebration peaceful and orderly, giving more room for our guests to freely occupy the streets deserted by vendors,” he added.

Kalibo Bishop Jose Corazon Tala-oc also hailed the Cathedral Parish of Kalibo and the festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) for their continuous efforts to preserve the religiosity of the “Debosyon ag Panaad kay Sr. Sto. Nino” as a celebration of the children of the Father in heaven.

“We have so many reasons to celebrate and be merry. Let us continue to shout Viva kay Senor Sto. Nino with joy; let us dance with “gusto” in the beat of the drums,” the bishop added.

Meanwhile, the Kasafi thanked the community for their trust and support in the successful management of the festival.

“We promise continued transparency in our financial accounting and our dedicated service and total commitment to make this celebration truly a tradition for the ages,” said Albert Menez, Kasafi chairman.

2012-01-03T00:14:00.001+10:00

SKorean students to visit Kalibo Ati-Atihan fest

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – A group of tourism students from South Korea will take part in the famous Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival starting this week.

The tourism immersion is an initiative of the Jeju National University in Jeju City to allow their students to have the opportunity to experience and interact with the community in a regional tourism destination.

Jeju City is the capital of Jeju province in South Korea and the largest city on the island of Jeju. The university is located in the heart of Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, the premier tourist destination in Korea.

This January, the South Korean students are exposed and are directly involved in the activities of festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi).

According to Kani Wonhee Yon, director of E-Overseas Education Center of Jeju National University, said the 12 university students have chosen to explore and learn more about the Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival rather than participating in other festivals in the region.

Kani said the university students majoring in International Tourism will be arriving on January 5 from Incheon, South Korea. They will be accompanied by their supervising professor Moon-Soo Cho for the festival.

“Aklan and Boracay Island are popular destinations for Koreans. The Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival would be a good experience for our university students and far more exciting, where our students are intimately involved in organizing the events through Kasafi,” Kani said during her visit last November here.

Kasafi chairman Albert Menez, for his part, has said tourism students from Jeju National University are positively welcome to grace the festival.

“Their involvement in the weeklong celebration is very interesting and soon they will rub elbows with our Ati-Atihan committee members and the competing tribes,” he said.

Menez said the university students will showcase a traditional Korean dance during the Lakan ag Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan pageant and coronation night on January 6.

“Learning the local culture, tourism and the hospitality of Aklanons in the hosting of great event such as the Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival in honor of Senor Sto. Nino will continue to generate more excitement and interest among our visitors,” he stressed.

The 10-day trip of the South Korean students in Aklan will bring them also in the white sand beaches of Boracay, a top destination for Koreans yearly.

2012-01-02T00:01:00.003+10:00

Cops to reroute traffic for Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Vehicular traffic for the weeklong Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival will be rerouted temporarily.

Motorists are advised to avoid the Mabini and the Desposorio Maagma, Sr. Streets from General Castillo Shrine to Crossing Banga-New Washington. These roads will be closed for the conduct of the religious procession on January 15 at 3 p.m.

As part of the rerouting plan, traffic for the Pagdayaw sa Sto. Nino with floats of local colleges, university and schools will be closed starting 2 p.m. on January 10 and 11. No vehicles are allowed to transverse along the Mabini Street for the duration of the Higante Contest and Aklan Festivals Parade of the provincial and municipal employees on January 12, which will start at 1 p.m. and is expected to end by 6 p.m.

SPO4 Benny Jones Mendoza, Kalibo traffic division chief, said traffic enforcers will be deployed to guide motorists into alternative routes, especially, in the one-way scheme along Toting Reyes Street and the Calachuchi Road to ease the traffic congestion next week.

In a traffic rerouting advisory, all vehicles bound to Iloilo and Capiz or to Banga from Numancia using the Roxas Avenue should turn right to Toting Reyes Street through Osmeña Avenue or turn left to Quezon Avenue for vehicles bound to the Kalibo International Airport (KIA).

Vehicles from Iloilo or Capiz to Caticlan and eastern part of Aklan passing through Osmeña Avenue, should turn right to North Capitol Avenue, left to Fernandez Street through Calachuchi Road, left to Roxas Avenue Extension and straight to Kalibo-Numancia bridge and then to their point of destination.

Vehicles from Kalibo International Airport bound to Caticlan are advised to turn right to Judge Martelino Street, turn left to Roxas Avenue extension straight to Kalibo-Numancia bridge.

Tricycles from Banga intending to use the Osmena Avenue should turn right to North Capitol Avenue, left to Fernandez Street through Calachuchi Road, left to Roxas Avenue Extension, right to Toting Reyes Street, left to N. Roldan Street and right to Oyo Torong Street.

To declog the streets of traffic, Mendoza said tricycles from Banga could take the alternate route in Libtong road, passing through C. Quimpo and Pastrana Streets to unload their passengers near C. Laserna and Rizal Streets only.

RELIGIOUS PROCESSION

Meanwhile, the religious procession during the Feast of Senor Sto. Nino on January 15, the third Sunday of January, will start at 3 p.m. in front of Saint John the Baptist Cathedral in Archbishop Reyes Street.

It will then take C. Laserna Street toward the M. Laserna Street, turn right to Acevedo Street (Castillo Shrine), turn left to Desposorio Maagma, Sr. Street, turn left to Mabini Street, turn left to Roxas Avenue, turn left to Pastrana Street, turn right to Archbishop Reyes Street and ends at Saint John the Baptist Cathedral.

Thousands of devotees, balikbayans and tourists carrying images of Senor Sto. Nino and tribes with their karos, are expected to join the religious procession.

2012-01-01T00:20:00.003+10:00

16 out-of-town tribes to join in 2012 Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Sixteen out-of-town tribes will compete in the Ati-Atihan contest of the 2012 Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival.
Five tribes from Lilo-an and San Roque, Malinao, Aklan are joining the Balik-Ati competition.

They are Tribu Isalacan, Tribu Ilayanhon, Malipayong Ati, Kinantuing and defending champion Lilo-anong Ati nga Mananggiti.

Other tribes competing are Apo ni Inday of Calangcang, Makato, Aklan; Anono-o Group of Barangay Briones and Tribu Bakhaw Sur of Barangay Bakhaw Sur, all from Kalibo, Aklan.

Maharlika, Lord Eagles, D'Kamanggahan Tribe and Pangawasan Tribe from Makato, Aklan are contesting the grand prize of P150,000 in the Tribal Big category. The reigning champion Black Beauty Boys from Linabuan Norte will be up against Kabog (Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan), Tribu Responde and Tribu Tiis Tiis (New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan) and Tribu Bukid Tigayon.

Meanwhile, four out-of-town tribes will take part in the Tribal Small category with a grand prize of P60,000. They are Tribu Tipon Tipon and Lezo Tribe of Ibao, Lezo, Aklan; Tribu Parola of Daja, Banga, Aklan and Tribu Tigpalas of Tigpalas, Malinao, Aklan.

Past winner Tribu Ea-mang (Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan), Morongga Tribe (New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan), Tribu Ninolitos (Tigayon, Kalibo, Aklan) and Tribu Alibangbang of Linabuan Norte, Kalibo, Aklan will also see action in the Tribal Small category.

In the Modern group category, Jimzon Group of Pusiw, Numancia, Aklan and Aeang-Aeang Group of Laguinbanua, Numancia, Aklan are two of the five groups registered with the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi).

Other Ati-Ati groups are Pilgrimage of Pook, Kalibo, Aklan; The Andagao City of Andagao, Kalibo, Aklan and SKBK, Inc. of New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan.

Kasafi, a private non-profit foundation that runs the Ati-Atihan festival, are still expecting additional tribes to register before the deadline on January 7, 2012.

2011-12-31T10:46:00.004+10:00

DoH’s New Yearmakers: APIR tayo!

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – The Department of Health (DoH) has reminded the New Year merry makers to support APIR or ‘Aksyon: Paputok Injury Reduction’ a nationwide campaign to prevent and reduce the number of firecracker and gun-related incidents during the New Year revelry.

Provincial Health Officer (PHO) I Dr. Bong Guatzon said DOH Aklan listed 1,022 cases of fireworks and stray-bullet related injuries for 2010.

He noted that a total of 173 cases before the coming of the New Year from December 22 to 29 were recorded in Aklan. The cases could reach their peak during December 31 and January 1, he added.

Last year, the health department implemented its "Iwas Paputok" anti-firecracker program. This year, DOH officials urged the local officials to support the APIR campaign in their respective areas to avoid injuries and other accidents.

“Of the 173 cases listed, 163 of the injuries are fireworks-related injuries. There are two cases of firecracker digestion and eight cases of stray-bullet injuries,” he said in an interview over DyRU Super Radyo Kalibo.

In 2010, a total of 972 cases in Aklan or 95 percent were caused by firecrackers, 39 by stray bullets or 4 percent and 11 cases where firecrackers were swallowed.

Meanwhile, the Department of Health reiterated the five safety reminders for merrymakers, to wit:

Mapanganib ang paggamit ng paputok (fireworks cause injuries and endanger health),

Lahat ng paputok ay bawal sa bata (children should not use any fireworks)

Lumayo sa mga taong nagpapaputok (keep safe and away from exploding fireworks)

Huwag mamulot ng di sumabog na paputok (never pick used fireworks)

Magpagamot agad kapag naputukan (seek immediate medical treatment for all firework injuries).

APIR also recommended five simple tips to celebrate the New Year. These are promote and participate in the community fireworks display in your area; celebrate a safe holiday with family and loved ones; use alternative noise-makers to welcome the new year; join merry making activities and use the time to reflect on the lesson of the past year and make resolutions for a better 2012.

2011-12-30T00:34:00.004+10:00

Kasafi bares festive 2012 Kalibo Ati-Atihan events
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Expect a colorful and exciting Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival this January.
Three of the 2012 Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival highlights - the spiritual street dancing, religious procession and the Ati-Atihan contest, for sure, will attract thousands of devotees, guests, balikbayans and tourists.

The highly anticipated Ati-Atihan contest for modern, tribal big and small and Balik-Ati will be staged on January 14 starting at 8 a.m. Thirty tribes and groups, so far, have registered with the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) that will compete through street dancing with their virbrant Ati-Atihan costumes.

The 'free-wheeling' spiritual street dancing is an evolving tradition of people from all walks of life. The 'sadsad panaad' of young and old alike, is a celebration of no equal - frenzied dancing, merrymaking of Ati performers and spontaneous cries of “Viva! Kay Señor Santo Niño, Viva!".

The religious procession on January 15 will culminate the fiesta with Senor Santo Niño ‘’caros’’ and devotees carrying Sto. Niño images and statues in different forms and sizes. It begins in the Saint John the Baptist Cathedral and ends at the church.

Other activities of the week-long celebration are:

Higante Contest and Aklan Festivals Parade - January 12, at 2 p.m. This is a competition of floats with the fantasy-themed characters and a showcase of the richness of many fascinating and diverse festivals participated in by the 17 municipalities in Aklan.

Hala Bira Ati-Atihan Nights - January 9 to 15, at 7 p.m. Kalibo Magsaysay Park. Pinoy bands will be invited to relive the Ati-Atihan 'snake' dancing that also features music and food for local tourists and balikbayans.

Spiritual Street Dancing - January 1 to 15, major streets of Kalibo. Merrymakers and devotees, smeared in soot, dance to the beat of the drums in honor of the Holy Child. An expression of long-lasting devotion and tribute to Senor Sto. Nino de Kalibo.

Pahilot / Paeapak - January 6 to 15, Saint John the Baptist Cathedral. A traditional and unique healing traditions of the devotees of Senor Sto. Nino.

Kaean-an sa Plasa - January 9 to 15, at 6 p.m. Kalibo Pastrana Park. Popular cuisine prepared by local restaurants with nightly entertainment.

Lakan ag Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan - January 6, pageant and coronation night at 7 p.m. Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports and Cultural Center. This is the search for the best Mutya and Lakan of the Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival. Thirty-two young men and women will be presented in their long gown, malayan barong, interview, swimsuit and cultural performance.

Ati-Atihan Product Expo - January 9 to 15, Kalibo Pastrana Park. Explore Aklan's best products in display for the week-long festival. Aside from the world-class pina, raffia, nito and abaca products, local entrepreneurs will also showcase their latest collections available for shoppers.

Ati-Atihan Bazaar - January 9 to 15, Veterans Avenue. Satisfy your cravings for a wide array of products at affordable prices.

9-days Novena, January 6 to 15, Saint John the Baptist Cathedral. Huge throng of devotees from all sectors in the community prayed the novena in honoring the Sto. Nino.

As this developed, all available hotel accommodations in the capital town of Kalibo, at the start of January 2012 and leading up to ‘Kapistahan ni Senor Sto. Nino’, are also expected to be fully booked.

The week-long revelry, slated from January 9 to 15, is run and organized by a private-sector led Kasafi in partnership with the municipal government of Kalibo.

2011-12-29T22:05:00.004+10:00

New Year revelry in Boracay

BY EUGENE Y. SANTOS

The Yuletide season is all about celebrations. And, in a tropical country like the Philippines, perhaps we’re lucky that beaches like Boracay are just within reach if we want to spend the holidays away from the hustle and bustle of Manila.

For urban dwellers, it seems like an alluring idea to just walk on shores with powdery white sand and frolic in the sea during Yuletide vacation.

According to Alfonso Chusuey, COO and assistant to the president for Boracay Garden Resort, the Yuletide season is a peak period for travelers, with an influx of guests checking in for the holidays.

Holidays in Boracay often have a happy and laid back atmosphere. However, the revelry goes on a fever pitch after Christmas Day, when people flock to the beach after spending time at home with their families during Christmas Eve. “We’re expecting full occupancy for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day,” Alfonso shares.

In anticipation of the New Year, Boracay lives up to its epicurean reputation for the next few days, becoming a party-filled venue. The merry-making series hits a crescendo on New Year’s Eve, when hotels and resorts host New Year’s Eve feasts and promote special holiday promos.

To illustrate, Boracay Garden Resort offers a special package up to January 2, 2012. Based on triple sharing, guests may avail of four days’ accommodation in a deluxe room for as low as P7, 924.00 net per person. The package includes breakfast and dinner meals together with roundtrip transfers via Caticlan.

The resort is also gearing up for a lavish Medya Noche (New Year’s Eve dinner) buffet spread at its beachfront. “We all look forward to Medya Noche to share warm, hearty meals with our loved ones,” says Mario Gatmaitan, Boracay Garden Resort’s food and beverage manager.

Set to be served buffet-style are Pinoy Roasted Calf Leg with onion gravy, Lechon de Carajay, Adobong Sugpo sa Aligue, Chicken Galantine, Beef Bulalo with Bone Marrow, Chicken Sisig, Tokwa’t Baboy, Arroz Valenciana, Rellenong Sugpo with Crab Roe Sauce, Lengua con Setas and Seafood Kare-Kare.

Other treats include Maple-brown Sugar Glazed Christmas Ham, Lemongrass Grilled Salmon Fillet in Green Thai Curry Sauce, Kalbi Tang (boiled Korean Ox-Tail), Southern Fried Chicken, London Fish and Chips, Roasted Steamship with Au Jus, Roasted Tom Turkey with Chestnut stuffing, Giblet gravy and Cranberry Sauce and Braised Duck in Star Anise.

Desserts spanning from Filipino to international cuisines will also be present. Examples include buko fruit salad, tiramisu, cheesecake, leche flan, bibingka, among others. “We have also included in the menu popular holiday drinks like hot chocolate, peppermint tea, salabat, ginumis, and buko pandan,” adds Gatmaitan.

If you want to have your food any time of the day, the resort has the Garden Café, an al fresco restaurant serving local and international cuisines. Those looking to cool off may take a dip in the resort’s 450-square meter main pool with poolside bar and deck.

But more than gastronomic fare and fun-filled days, Boracay is one of the safest places to spend the holidays. Henry Chusuey, chairman of the Henann Resorts group, which operates the Boracay Garden Resort, says that crime rates are low in Boracay. Save for petty mischief, no major crimes have been committed in the ‘island paradise’ for a long time.

In relation to New Year’s Eve, Henry also shares that igniting fireworks on the beach grounds per se is forbidden. This seems like a reassurance for guests who may worry about possible incidents of fireworks-induced injuries on hand and on land.

But for those who look forward to some fireworks, no worries. Henry says that Boracay Garden Resort, along with sister resorts Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa and Regency Lagoon Resort, will showcase the best fireworks display in Boracay—in a safe manner, of course.

2011-12-28T23:12:00.009+10:00

Kapuso stars to judge in Lakan ag Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan beauty pageant

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Two Kapuso stars - RnB singer Kris Lawrence and actress Bella Padilla are among the judges of the much-awaited Lakan ag Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan beauty pageant search.

Come January 6, 2012, thirty two young and talented aspirants will showcase their wit, beauty and brawn at the Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports and Cultural Center.

Kris, a songwriter/producer, is a regular mainstay of the Sunday noontime musical variety show Party Pilipinas. He was a former Search for the Star in a Million Season 2 Grand Champion before he signed up with GMA-7 in 2010.

Bella, from the Padilla clan in showbiz, was awarded Miss Friendship and Media’s Darling awards in the Asian Super Model held in China on September. She starred in the top-rating GMA-7's TV soap operas - Endless Love and Machete.

Fashion designer Renee Salud, Miss Resorts World Manila 2011 first runner-up Ladylyn Riva and TV5 talent and model Jan Arnex Florece will be part also of the judging panel who will determine the best Mutya and Lakan of the Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival.

Other judges named by the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) are Capiz province vice governor Stevan Evan Contreras, DepEd Aklan Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Jesse Gomez, former Mutya it Aklan Jerly Trance Villaruel, Malay town first lady Abegail Humady Yap and Mr. Pacific World Philippines 2011 winner Miguel David dela Paz.

While swimsuit competition took place at Boracay Gardens Resort on December 10 and the talent at Kalibo Pastrana Park on December 23, the contestants will be judged on their long gown, interview and production number. There will also a presentation of special and corporate awards and the naming of titleholders on January 6, 2012.

Tickets for the pageant night are priced at P200 (sponsor), P100 (patron) and P50 for general admission. Tickets are available at the gate and at the Kasafi office.

2011-12-27T20:18:00.000+10:00

Celebrating the New Year in Boracay

BY ROSE-AN DIOQUINO / GMA News

In true Filipino fashion, the “elders” in the family would insist that you spend the holidays within the confines of the home, where you all can gather around the table for the traditional midnight dinners.

Make your own cocktail drinks, Boracay-style

Boracay Garden food and beverage manager Mario Gatmaitan shares three simple cocktail recipes that you can make for guests and family, even if you’re bent on spending the holidays at home. Red Christmas Recommended for socializing at the sala before dinner, or while eating Noche Buena What you need (per serving; as measured through a jigger): ½ cointreau 90 mL cranberry juice 60 mL sparkling wine Glass: champagne flute What to do: 1. The glass must be chilled. Either put it in the freezer or fill it with ice for a few minutes. 2. Pour cointreau and cranberry juice. Top with sparkling wine. Snowball This is a dessert and cocktail drink rolled into one, creamy but with a kick. What you need (per serving): 1 part Tequila Rose liqueur 3 drops vanilla syrup 30 mL evaporated milk ½ part kahlua cinnamon powder wafer sticks Glass: brandy snifter What to do: 1. Put all the ingredients in a blender, together with some ice cubes. 2. Blend them together until the mixture is smooth. 3. Pour it in the glass, then top it with cinnamon powder. 4. Garnish with the wafer stick. Santa shot This wicked drink can give you the kick that you need to really get the party started. What you need (per serving; as measured by a jigger): 1 part grenadine syrup 1 part green crème de menthe 1 part Jagermeister Glass: shot glass or cordial glass What to do: 1. Pour green crème de menthe in the glass. 2. Since you’d want to achieve a jelly-layers look, hold a teaspoon—on its backside—on the glass’ opening before pouring grenadine syrup. 3. Do the same as you put in the Jagermeister.

But the holiday season can take a toll on you, especially if you live in the city, with all the things-to-do, mall sales, and traffic.

So if you’re itching to get away from all that and experience the holidays in a different way, why not head to the beach—to Boracay, for instance—and celebrate with the eternal feel of sun and sand?

Let someone else ‘accommodate’

According to Henry Chusuey, chairman of Henann Hotels and Resorts (which manages three establishments in Boracay), more people come in after December 25 in order to experience the New Year celebration in Boracay—that night of “food, fun, drinks, and the best fireworks by the beach front.”

To keep up with competition, hotels along Boracay’s long strip try to beat each other with promo packages that tourists—especially Filipinos—take advantage of every year. Some promos, such as that of Boracay Garden Resort (one of their establishments), last even until Jan. 2.

Have your special 'Media Noche' – fuss-free!

You need not worry about the laborious kitchen work when you’re in the island because buffets are lined up along its three-kilometer strip during the holidays. Even hotels, especially those that have restaurants inside, can prepare your Media Noche, the traditional Filipino New Year's Eve meal, for you.

Ralph Gerald Bermejo, food and beverage manager of Boracay Mandarin Hotel, said their buffet for New Year cost around P1,200 and it comes with entertainment like fire dance and live bands. Over at the world-renowned Discovery Shores (hailed as one of the best Hotel Spas in the world by Travel + Leisure), holidays are welcomed with feasts—and an “all-out” Carnaval treat is to be laid out for the New Year.

These establishments gather their guests for a Media Noche by the beach, complete with DJs, live bands, and, of course, spectacular fireworks display. According to Chusuey, Boracay “has the best fireworks ever,” best seen by guests on the beach front as they have their midnight New Year dinner. For Henann Hotels and Resorts, which has been arranging these gatherings for about five years, the sky sparkles with their fireworks display for 15 minutes.

Go ahead – let loose, be adventurous

Boracay definitely can entertain your “wild side”—whether you’re talking about extreme sports or partying all night. Take advantage of the waters and the scenery with differentactivities like cliff jumping at Ariel’s Point (P1,400 per person), parasailing (around P2,000 per person), and helmet diving (P600 per person).

You may also go island hopping, at whatever style you choose, be it on a kayak (P1,200 per person), by land (for as low as P2,000), or even by helicopter (P5,300 per person). If you’re up for cocktails and party music, you can head over to places like: the Jungle Bar (famous for opening only during full moon and for its lethal concoction named after bar manager Archie Aniel), Juice Bar (for flaming cocktails), and the Pool Bar of the New York Times-recognized Tides Resort.

But if you’re planning to get wasted, best to do it in good company—family members or friends who would definitely pull you out of having too much fun, drag you safely back into bed, but from whom you’ll never hear the end of it.

Make (or strengthen) connections

In an interview with GMA News Online, some locals said going to Boracay during the yuletide holidays really is a treat because the camaraderie in the island really emphasizes the “happy” in Christmas and New Year.

“Masaya ang bonding ng mga tao sa beach sa mga panahong ito, kahit hindi sila magkakakilala sa una,” said Bermejo, who added that around 80 percent of the guests at this time are Europeans who wish to take a break from freezing in winter. Boracay “beach police” Chino Vargas added that Christmas there is enjoyable because it’s time for families and friends to be away from the stresses of work and urban living. “Kapag kasi nandito, sama sama sila, nae-enjoy nila ‘yung beach at may time para sa isa’t isa,” he said.

Relax

Indeed, Boracay is a destination filled with adventures and marvels. But since you’re on vacation—one of the rare times of the year—do label at least one day as your downtime, when you can sleep in longer, take a barefoot stroll on the powdery white sand, watch one of the best sunsets in the world, go to the spa, and just zone out.

Rid yourself of the stresses, take in the laid-back vibe of the beach, and start your year feeling fresh.— KG, GMA News

2011-12-26T09:50:00.001+10:00

Rehabilitation of Mother Earth
BY IVY ROSE VIDAL

Our Mother Earth is drowning from different environmental problem its because of us being frenetic in thinking for our own way of survival but not thinking on the effect to our environment, caused by the different activities we made that result to: air pollution, water pollution and poor waste disposals, floods and landslides are anywhere in this world.

Especially here in our own place AKLAN, we are experiencing drastic changes in our climate, as well as floods during even a short rain falls.All of us have the responsibility to save our mother earth; we need to lift the Earth from a muddy flood, with waste and other pollution.

As we start to lift step by step it is the great way to restore our planet. Trees will start to grow and we can breathe fresh air, less flood, we can drink fresh water and provide a healthy marine life.

This is how earth appearing nowadays• The dark colors on the lower portion signify as the composition of waste due to littering, burning of garbage and flash flood that washes the earth. It’s also the cause of global warming.

The HAND symbolizes that we must hold hands together to raise the earth from drowning by making different ways in saving our environment.As you observe, each color symbolizes the chance that we have for rehabilitation.

The color from dark to light means that we have still the chance to make change into a good one. And the green color signifies willpower or strong level of chance to restore it into a good condition.

The plant above the EARTH brings a new HOPE for us.It’s not yet late.So, to all of us, it is about time to give our quick response to this alarming state of the only planet we live in, for it provides us shelter since we were born, by doing our own share of protecting her even in simple things, I know that will surely stir big difference.

For if not, we might be harming ourselves in the years ahead of us, for nature has its own destructive way of getting back at us humans, the signs of earth's displeasure with inappropriate and harmful activities of humans can now be seen and felt all across the globe like the global warming, earthquakes, acid rain, drought, flash floods and other forms of natural catastrophes.

Be a hero, let’s help one another, hand in hand to save the earth from any bad changes, to stop the atmosphere from bursting, let us start changing our wasteful habits, plant more trees to prevent floods and do proper waste management to have a HEALTHY LIFE ON EARTH. Therefore; Strong values, self discipline and good character traits are needed for EVERYONE’S sake – NOW!

2011-12-25T22:39:00.004+10:00

Filipinos abroad gear for Ati-Atihan festival
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Filipinos will stage the Ati-Atihan festival in Sacramento, California at the Jose Rizal Community Center on January 7.

The 21st Annual Ati-Atihan and Festival and Dance is a religious and cultural event of the Aklan Association of Sacramento and Vicinity, Inc. (AASVI) in honor of Senor Sto. Nino.

It is a yearly activity that Aklanons in Sacramento, California area and the neighboring Filipino communities come up with a traditional Ati-Atihan festival throughout the years to pay tribute to the Holy Child.

Among the awaited festive events are the holy mass, blessing of Senor Sto. Nino images and statues, pahilot or paeapak and the Hala Bira Ati-Atihan contest.

“At least 10 tribes will join the festival. Some of the tribes are the Visayan Association of Sacramento, Tribo Gabriellas, Igkampuran, Filipino Community of Sacramento and Vicinity and the Sinagtala Tribo,” said Franklin Zabal, AASVI president.

Other Filipino communities celebrating the Sto. Nino and Ati-Atihan festival come January are the Aklan Ati-Atihan Association of USA, Inc. in Virginia, the Aklan Ati-Atihan Association of B.C. in Vancouver Canada and the Aklan Association of San Diego, Inc. in San Diego, California.

Come January 9 to 15, 2012, devotees, balikbayans and guests will celebrate the Ati-Atihan festival in Kalibo, Aklan, one of the most unique and spectacular events in the region.

Often dubbed as the original celebration of Ati tribes and the Spanish colonizers to honor the patron saint Holy Child, this festive event brings together the religious fervour of devotees, the display of colourful costumes and Ati-Ati participants in street dancing contests.

2011-12-25T14:30:00.004+10:00

Echoes From

BY JOHNNY DAYANG

Ragingly Objective

It does not pay to exaggerate or lie about things nowadays, Technology has seen to that. You do anything blatantly scandalous or illegal and there is that big chance someone will be around to record the act, through a handy mobile phone camera or video cam.

The situation has been succinctly phrased by popular American TV host and comedian Whoopy Goldberg: "Today, your can't do squat without being seen." And of course, through technology , it will only be a matter of time (which can be as short as a minute or a few seconds), before the world knows about what you did.

Information has indeed become accessible. This is true for the average person and more so for those who are in positions of power and prestige.

As a consequence, media no longer has the monopoly of being an information gatekeeper. The big TV and radio stations, the newspapers and tabloids no longer have sole command of the news the public reads, hears, or views on a day-to-day basis.

News gathering and reportage have become ultra-democratic through the power of the World Wide Web. Today, we get a continuous barrage of ideas, opinions and information through Facebook, Twitter, Friendster, Multiply and a hundred other social networking sites that link millions of people across the globe at light speed.

There also countless blogs, as well as personal and professional websites, on any topic one can think of.

True, media practitioners, no longer control the information sky. And because of this, reporters, editors, and columnists could face the same fate as the suddenly obsolete pagers or beta camcorders; relegated to the dustbin of history because they have become redundant. We could, if we are not careful. If we continue to engage in an old, descrepit, practice that some veteran journalists regard as the hallmark of true journalism in the Philippines : Being partisan.

In a time when people can look for news themselves, media can remain relevant by providing the objective, unbiased report or analysis. This is the basic demand of every journalist, whether as a member of the mainstream media or the community press.

These are the trying times. Raging issues confront us. Rage, if we must. But above all, don't be partisan. BE OBJECTIVE, or perish.

2011-12-24T03:26:00.005+10:00

Sand artists dominate Mutya ag Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan talent competition,
Daguno, Martirez named Talent winners
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Two finalists of the Mutya and Lakan of Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival bested 30 other gorgeous aspirants for the talent awards.

Ramon Alexis Melgar Daguno, the 22-year old representing the town of Ibajay, won the Best in Talent award of the Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2012.

He impressed the five judges and the audience of his artistry and the images produced by his sand art.

The talent competition was held last night at the Kalibo Pastrana Park under the auspices of the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) and the municipal government of Kalibo.

Ma. A'Rose Olive Joy Martinez, 18-year old nursing student of Saint Gabriel College, also stood out among the 16 finalists of the Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan.

She was adjudged as Miss Talent with her sand art projected onto a large screen, using her hands to create pictures on an illuminated sand table.

Daguno also won the Best in Swimwear award at the Boracay Gardens Resort last December 10 to make him one of the overwhelming favorites to win the Lakan title.

Other 30 participants displayed their talents in singing, painting, dancing and doing magic tricks. This year’s edition of the talent competition was hosted by Charmaine Ling Palomata-Chua.

Kasafi has announced the final judging and coronation on January 6, 2012 at the Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports and Cultural Center.

2011-12-23T02:16:00.004+10:00

32 Mutya ag Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan onstage for talent competition

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) will showcase the beauty and talent of 32 finalists for the Mutya ag Lakan it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2012.

Hosted by 2011 Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2nd runner-up Charmaine Ling Palomata-Chua, the contestants are all going for two special awards - Mr. Talent and Miss Talent this Friday evening starting at 7.

Kasafi chairman Albert Menez said the young women and physique men will take the centerstage at the Kalibo Pastrana Park to display their individual talents and abilities. The judges for the talent competition are Gaynor Alejaga-Calizo, Dr. Lynn Salido, Ju-im Jimlan, Karina Quimpo-Mallongga and Architect Ramon Duena, Jr.

The talent competition will also feature the performance of Kasafi dance company and singing champion Melky Arboleda. Kalibo mayor William Lachica and Vice mayor Madeline Regalado are invited to award the talent awards to the winners.

In the prelude for the final show on January 6, 2012, the aspirants participated in a number of mini-pageants in Boracay Garden Resort and Maribert Inland Resort, where they strut their stuff in beach attire.

Kasafi said audiences from across the province of Aklan can expect an impressive pageant where a bevy of beauties will take over the crown from current Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan Caren Retamar Braun. The pageant finale is going to take place at Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports and Cultural Center.

All the contestants will parade on stage wearing the fashion collection of well-known designer Renee Salud, the pageant organizer added.

2011-12-22T22:45:00.003+10:00

Aklan chess players compete in Singapore Open
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Young Aklanon chess players will represent the country in the 2nd Singapore International Youth Chess Championships 2011 (Open and Girls) at the Jurong East Sports Hall in Singapore on December 24 to 31.

Provincial Sports Coordinator and National Master Wilfredo Neri said Christian John Dumo of Kalibo Pilot Elementary School and Carlos Miguel Sualog of Marian High will vie for honors in the Boys’ Open Under-8 category.

Lianne Tiffany Garingalao and Naomi Gywne Ramos, both from Kalibo Pilot Elementary School, will see action in the Under-11 Girls category while Dejhanera Isabel Billones of Aklan Interfaith Academy will compete in the Girls’ Under-8 category.
The prestigious tournament is part of the 8th Singapore International Chess Festival 2011. It is organized by the Singapore Chess Federation under the auspices of the Singapore Sports Council.

Other events in the Singapore Chess Festival are the 2nd ASEAN Chess Championships 2011 - Campomanes Cup, Singapore Open 2011, FIDE Arbiters' Seminar and FIDE Trainers' Seminar.
The PH chess team is backed up by National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) under chairman Prospero Pichay and the Philippine Sports Commission.

2011-12-21T21:24:00.004+10:00

Ati tribes get subsidies from Kasafi

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Twenty six competing tribes were given their full subsidies for the 2012 Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Festival.

These tribes are officially registered with festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi).

The foundation has allocated P744,000 for financial assistance and P704,000 cash prizes for the forthcoming festival. Kasafi has, so far, released P550,000 for twenty six tribes in the Balik-Ati, Modern, Tribal Big and Small categories.

The participating tribes in the Tribal Big category are Pangawasan Tribe (Makato, Aklan), Maharlika (Dumga, Makato, Aklan), Tribu Tiis-Tiis (New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan), D' Kamanggahan Tribe (Poblacion, Makato, Aklan), Lord Eagles (Dumga, Makato, Aklan), Tribu Responde (New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan) and Tribu Bukid Tigayon (Tigayon, Kalibo, Aklan). They received subsidy of P30,000 each.

Tribu Responde and the 2011 Tribal Small category champion Tribu Bukid Tigayon are both competing in the Tribal Big Category next year.

Pilgrimage (Pook, Kalibo, Aklan), SKBK, Inc. (New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan), The Andagao City (Andagao, Kalibo, Aklan) and Jimzon Group (Pusiw, Numancia, Aklan) are the partipating groups in the Modern category. They received subsidies of P10,000 each.

The Balik-Ati tribes are Kinantuing and Malipayong Ati (San Roque, Malinao, Aklan), Tribu Isalacan, Tribu Ilayanhon and Lilo-anong Ati nga Mananggiti, all from Liloan, Malinao, Aklan. Two new Balik-Ati tribes - Anono-o Group and Tribu Bakhaw Sur are also competing in this category. All tribes in the Balik-Ati category received P15,000 subsidies from Kasafi.

The contesting Tribal Small tribes - Tribu Eam-ang (Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan), Tribu Alibang-bang (Linabuan Norte, Kalibo, Aklan), Morongga Tribe (New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan), Lezo Tribe (Ibao, Lezo, Aklan), Tribu Parola (Daja, Banga, Aklan), Tribu Ninolitos (Tigayon, Kalibo, Aklan), Tribu Tig palas (Tigpalas, Malinao, Aklan) and Tribu Tipon Tipon (Ibao, Lezo, Aklan) have subsidies of P20,000 each.

The competing tribes, with their colourful indigenous costumes, will be judged on January 14, 2012. Any groups or individual participants in the Ati-Atihan contest must register on or before January 7, 2012 at the Kasafi office.

Each group must from time to time, chant or shout-in joy, triumph and unison “Viva kay Senor Sto. Nino!” to boost the spirituality of the festival chants in all corner of the street. They must also adhere to the age-old tradition that made Kalibo Ati-Atihan famous – dance steps and drumbeat must be Kalibo’s original and not copied from the other festivities.

2011-12-20T20:56:00.000+10:00

Why not a Noche Buena in Bora?
BY GIBBS CADIZ / Philippine Daily Inquirer

At Boracay Garden Resort, specifically, which bills itself as “the only property in the island where guests may take leisurely walks around the breezy, tree-lined property.” That luxury, quite scarce in Boracay where most establishments consist of tightly packed concrete structures, comes courtesy of the resort’s enviable size—some 1.5 hectares of open space big enough to accommodate three swimming pools side by side with landscaped gardens, cabanas, a poolside bar, and wide patches of either grassy or tiled open space for walking around.

“I cannot find a place here as big as this one,” says Henry Chusuey, chairman and CEO of Hennan Resorts, which owns and operates Boracay Gardens, with two other hotels in the island—Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Spa, and Regency Lagoon Resort—and one in Bohol—Hennan Resort in Alona Beach. “Usually, with resorts in this area, 70-80 percent of the property is already built up. At Boracay Garden, the open space is so big—about 60 percent of the property, which is, I think, ideal. Resorts need space; this is not a city hotel.”

That open expanse makes Boracay Garden Resort a choice destination for large groups, from families and tour groups to corporate vacationers. Formerly a Korean-owned resort marked by rather eclectic architecture and interiors, the place has undergone continuous renovation and improvements “so that it reaches Boracay Regency standards,” says Chusuey, referring to the more upscale, 285-room resort and spa adjacent to Boracay Garden.

At currently 201 rooms—set to rise to 257 by next year, overtaking Shangri-La Plaza’s 220-room property in the island—Boracay Garden is marketing itself as a mid-range triple-A destination for the middle class, with affordable rates and flexible room packages to accommodate families, above all.

Family holidays
“We are for family holidays that are reasonably priced,” says Chusuey. “Clean rooms, good service, reasonable price—that’s our main consideration. Everything nice and cheap is good. If the food is worth P500, we charge them P450—that’s how we’d like them to come back. In short, nanalo ka.”

Boracay Garden’s special Christmas package, based on triple sharing, has its deluxe rooms coming in at P7,924 per person, inclusive of four days’ accommodation, daily buffet breakfast and dinner, and round-trip transfers via Caticlan. The savings are substantial for large groups, considering that regular deluxe room rates are P4,800 per night. The promo period is from Dec. 25, 2011 to Jan. 2, 2012—precisely designed for families on the lookout for another way to celebrate Christmas and New Year outside of the city hurly-burly.

Christmas meals
The menu, too, has been jazzed up to whet the appetites of those who’d like a more laid-back, beach holiday twist to their traditional Noche Buena festivities.

“We want our guests to feel they never left home by serving them home-cooked Christmas meals,” says Mario Gatmaitan, food and beverage manager. It also spares the harried mom, incidentally, the hassle of long kitchen hours preparing the Noche Buena spread.

Boracay Garden’s Christmas menu consists of an array of traditional Filipino and popular international holiday dishes, among them chicken galantina and embutido, sweet ham, arroz Valenciana, pork morcon, seafood kare-kare, lengua con setas, roasted turkey, horseradish-crusted prime rib, and lemongrass-grilled salmon fillet in green Thai curry sauce.

The Filipino touch extends to sweets and delicacies—bibingka, leche flan, putong makulay, kutsinta, tamales, suman sa ibus, ubeng halaya, maja blanca, and espasol—washed down by holiday drinks such as hot chocolate, peppermint tea, and salabat.

The Christmas Eve set dinner has main entrees of grilled king prawns and traditional osso bucco, along with appetizers, salad, dessert, and petit fours. Guests with more expansive appetites can dive into the Christmas Eve dinner buffet, which focuses on Filipino dishes from beef bulalo to sisig; halabos na hipon, alimasag, tahong at talaba, maya-maya sa mayonisa, rellenong sugpo, braised duck in star anise, balbacua, etc.

The carving station offers more varied fare: Glazed Christmas ham leg in pineapple sauce; roasted turkey with chestnut stuffing, giblet gravy and cranberry sauce; and roasted steamship with au jus, along with grilled vegetables.

New Year’s revelry
The resort has also whipped up similar set dinner and buffet arrangements for New Year’s festivities, now served with wine and highlighting international cuisine.

Appetizers include German cold cuts, nigiri sushi and sashimi, seafood terrine, six kinds of cheese; soup is either lobster chowder with pinot noir wine foam, or green pea and spinach soup with hickory smoked bacon. And the carving station combines the best local and foreign meats: Pinoy-roasted calf-leg, maple-brown sugar-glazed Christmas ham, US turkey roll with prune stuffing and cranberry sauce, and lechon de Carajay with pinakurat sauce.

The New Year’s Eve revelry peaks with Boracay Garden’s own 15-minute fireworks display, which, with the resort’s open space and unimpeded view of sky and horizon, is said to be a truly spectacular, one-of-a-kind experience in Boracay.

Famed beach
Families on Christmas holiday, of course, can always head off to the famed Long Beach if they tire of the resort’s 450-sq m main pool (“That long shoreline is THE main attraction,” says Chusuey, also the chairman of Boracay Foundation, a coalition of Boracay business owners. “You haven’t been to Boracay unless you’ve stayed on Long Beach.”) Boracay Garden has direct access to its own beachfront, a leisurely three-minute walk that allows guests to roam over the property’s gardens, mini-fountains and spacious grounds.

The rooms, meanwhile, are equipped with private terrace, Wi-Fi access, bathtub with separate water area, individually-controlled air-conditioning, cable TV, direct-dial phone, in-room safe, coffee- and tea-making facilities and personal refrigerators. Right outside some premiere rooms is the pool, allowing for easy, intimate water enjoyment. Family rooms can accommodate up to six persons.

And, in case children get bored, the resort staff can be requested to hold games and fun bonding activities for the family, among them “Mix your own Christmas cocktail drink,” “Decorate your own Gingerbread Man,” treasure hunts, and relay games.

All in all, with sand and sea nearby, al fresco dinners under the stars, late-night swimming in the pools, and quiet time in the middle of spacious greenery, a stay at Boracay Garden Resort would be one unique Yuletide holiday, indeed.