I’m currently in Cebu City for a mini vacation. One that I feel I truly need and somehow deserve. I’ll tell you all more about my Cebu vacation but let me give you a little sneak peek: through the kind assistance of Cebu’s one and only Queen, Jude B., I’m doing an amazing hotel hop – Marco Polo Plaza, Waterfront Hotel and Casino Lahug, Radisson Blu Cebu, Islands Stay Cebu and Maribago Bluewater Resort Mactan. Exciting, huh?

Although I do remember that someone sent me a message a few days ago. He asked that if I wasn’t in Cebu, where would I want to spend a vacation in and why? My quick answer? Cayman Islands.

Yes, I know that to visit Cayman Islands and see the wonderful Cayman Islands Attractions sound a little bit far-fetched (for now!) but hey, a girl can dream, yes?

I mean who wouldn’t want to visit Cayman Islands anyway? Located in the Western Caribbean Sea, this beautiful area boasts of so many activities fit for excited tourists like me. From snorkelling through clear blue waters to diving to golfing to exploring and even to spending time at Stingray City (there are a lot of beautiful stingrays in the waters of Cayman Islands), one’s visit at this beautiful territory will definitely be very memorable. And oh, don’t forget the interesting National Pirates Week Festival every November! I don’t know about you but I think that sounds awfully cool

How fast time flies! Remember my Miss Kagay-an 2011 post? It seems just like yesterday! Before we know it, it’s time for the Search for Miss Kagay-an 2012.

Are you interested to join the Miss Kagay-an 2012 pageant? Want to be the next Miss Cagayan de Oro City 2012 queen?

Interested Kagay-anon ladies are encouraged to attend the screening of the next Miss Kagayan on May 19 at Rhapsody Suites along Hayes-Lt. Guillermo Streets in Cogon; May 26 at Hotel Koresco and on June 2 at Rodelsa Hall of Liceo de Cagayan University. As you can see, you have 3 audition dates for the 2012 Miss Kagay-an pageant. Screening time on all dates is from 1 PM to 6 PM.

Registration forms are available at the Cagayan de Oro Tourism and Cultural Office at the City Hall and at the City Tourism booth in Divisoria. Interested ladies must bring a copy of their birth certificate, 3 pieces full body and 3 headshot photos plus an endorsement from their barangay or school.

Qualifications:

Interested Miss Kagay-an candidates must be Filipino citizens, single (has never been married or never given birth), between 18 to 25 years old during the reigning period, was born or has origin in Cagayan de Oro, at least 5’4” in height, has pleasing personality, fluent in English, has never won the Miss Kagay-an pageant nor any major award in national pageants, willing to travel anywhere without chaperone and must possess a high level of tourism awareness about Northern Mindanao and Cagayan de Oro City in particular.

Please note that the coronation night for the Miss Kagay-an 2012 will be on August 26, 2012

For more information, interested applicants may contact Ms. Jenny at 0917-303-9134 or email at cdotourismboard@yahoo.com

Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III has confirmed that he and his wife of almost 12  years, Jewel May Lobaton, have separated.

Senator Koko Pimentel, a fellow Mindanaoan, said on Tuesday that he and his wife Jewel May Lobaton, a former beauty queen (she’s a Binibining Pilipinas-Universe titleholder), have been living separately since November 2011.

Here’s the official statement from Senator Koko Pimentel on his separation from his wife:

This may well be the most difficult public pronouncement I will ever be making in my entire life. And painful too, as every separation involves a certain degree of pain.

I confirm my separation from my wife of close to 12 years, Jewel May Lobaton. We have been living separately since November 2011.

I tried my best to resolve our differences for the sake of our two boys but have failed to do so. Now that we have separated, my main concern is the welfare of the boys.

Hence, I am asking for prayers from my supporters and the understanding of our people whom I serve. I want to assure them that this situation will not affect the discharge of my duties as a Senator.

Thank you for your prayers and support.

Camiguin, also known as the Island Born Out Of Fire, is an island one passes by on a boat ride between Cebu and Cagayan de Oro City. This small island has seven volcanoes, several waterfalls, and hot and cold springs. People visit Camiguin to primarily enjoy the water spots, but there’s more to the island than testing its waters.

Also known as the island of fire because of its many volcanoes, Camiguin is rumored to one day simply sink should there be a terrible eruption. But before that happens (and hopefully not), its best you know that Mt. Hibok-Hibok – the most active among the seven volcanoes – has been dormant since it erupted last 1951. Scientists are monitoring the volcanoes as well, as a cautionary measure and for study.

You can either fly in Camiguin or take the ferry. Most visitors usually stop in Cagayan de Oro City first, take the two-hour bus ride to Balingoan, and then ride the ferry to Mambajao.

Mambajao is the capital of the city, and still retains its small town charm. It is what makes Camiguin so appealing compared to other beach destinations in the country that have become too commercialized.

If you won’t stay too long in one place, you can actually go around Camiguin in a day or two. But should you wish to linger and enjoy the charming scenery, backpacking, renting a bike or even ziplining in Camiguin Island is a great way to enjoy the place.

Search for Camiguin Island accommodations here:

The waterfalls are a sight to see. Katibawasan Falls near Mambajao and Tuwasan Falls near Catarman are must-sees. Surrounded by lush foliage, these places can seduce you to a swim. Just know that the temperature is pretty cold.

There are two springs that both locals and tourists frequent. Should you time your visit early morning to midday, the St. Nino Cold Springs is sure to combat the heat of the tropic sun. If you want to visit late afternoon to evening, wallowing in the Ardent Hot Spring is a great way to relax after a long day.

The small islands should not be missed too. Island hopping is also one thing you can enjoy in Camiguin. White Island, whose land area lessens as the tide rise, and Mantigue Island, an island surrounded by corals, are notable spots to visit where you can find clear blue waters to wade in.

The Ruins of Gui-ob Church and the sunken cemetery are historical sites to visit. The present churches in Camiguin are wonderfully preserved and great spots to learn about architecture and history, as well.

If you’re to visit Camiguin, pack light and keep things simple. Bring change and cash, since ATMs are hard to come by. Extra shirts and shorts will come in handy if you plan to swim in most of the water spots. A light towel or wrap will work to dry you off or cover you from the winds. It’s okay to walk around in slippers the whole time. Just be sure to lather on sunscreen and bring water so that you won’t be dehydrated. Last, keep your plans flexible and light. Camiguin Island is a place best enjoyed in a languid manner.

If you listen to the news on Mindanao, the most likely reaction is that you’ll hesitate to come here. Much less choose to live here. But given the direness of the news on the peace and order situation here, have you ever wondered if there are perks to living in Mindanao? Actually, what’s so terrible in the news is merely a microcosm of Mindanao society. Given the largeness of the island and the number of regions, cities, and cultures that are found in Mindanao, you might want to take the news with a grain of salt the next time.

Mindanao is generally a peaceful place. The members of the populace are satisfied with their lives, and commerce and trade are smoothly moving along. The economics show a due representation from the filthy rich to poverty level poor, but people manage to get by. This is primarily because resources in Mindanao are still aplenty, are not as scarce as in the Luzon or Visayas areas, and are easily available to everyone at affordable rates.

The commerce is brisk with trades from other Asian nations coming in from the south. And as natural wonders are judiciously turned to Mindanao tourist spots, the island’s economy is boosted by tourism from both the locals and foreigners who visit these places. Given the terrain and climate of the regions, agriculture is still the primary source of income. From the big landlords to private backyard plots, there is always an opportunity to market agricultural products or maintain it for one’s consumption.

Living in Mindanao also offers an opportunity for one to choose whether they’d like the small town milieu or the big city hustle. The major cities in Mindanao can provide one with the necessary trappings of stress, traffic, and overworked employees in constant flux. What’s great about the Mindanao set-up is should you feel that your head’s under water, you can easily de-stress with a thirty minute to two hour drive to the nearest beach or mountain resort of your choice. People even manage to straddle both worlds well enough by going home to the mountains or suburbia, while pursuing their education and career in the cities.

If you’re one to dream big, there are several opportunities that can be found in island. The universities and colleges in Mindanao have produced credible individuals who make it in multinational companies in Cebu, Manila, and even outside of the country. Should you choose to stay, there are still jobs in Mindanao that are as huge a responsibilities those in the metro areas.

Living in Mindanao is an idyllic set-up. You have access to first world information on lifestyle, technology, fashion, and perspectives while you work on it in your stomping grounds. The culture of each region provides a dynamism that will never bore as you conduct your business in island, and this diversity spills over to every other interaction.

Given the very nature of these different Philippine sub-cultures and the traditions they practice, living in Mindanao will never be a rut. You will always have activities to attend; festivals to watch; places to find, visit, or restore; and a fine mix of country and city challenges and relaxation spots to engage in.

The Island Garden City of Samal is the kind of place you don’t want to miss in your lifetime. White sand beaches, pristine waters, majestic waterfalls, fascinating caves and panoramic views are plenty in the city. Its amenities and several exciting activities have added more vibrancy to the Island Garden City of Samal, making it a major tourist destination in Southern Philippines. In fact, the city is hyping up its well-celebrated festivals to earn the moniker “Island of Festivals” and to draw more tourists to its naturally beautiful land.

The Island Garden City of Samal is a group of islands that is centrally located in Davao Gulf in the southeastern part of Mindanao. It is a second class city in the Davao del Norte province which is politically subdivided into 46 barangays. Presently, it is part of Metropolitan Davao alongside Davao City, Panabo City, Tagum City, Digos City and the Municipalities of Sta. Cruz and Carmen.

In the past, the area was divided into three municipalities – Samal, Kaputian and Babak – each endowed with different natural and man made attractions. In 1998, however, the resolution of Republic Act No. 8471 paved the way to the merger and dissolution of the three municipalities into one local government unit, officially named Island Garden City of Samal.

Today, the city is known for its booming tourism industry. Scenic beaches, rich flora and fauna and other natural attractions abound in the city. There are also many activities to do around the city like island hopping, snorkeling, Jetski ride, scuba diving, hiking and camping. You can also visit the sanctuaries of Dugong, Pawikan and other rare marine creatures. An island tour via ferries and sea craft are also offered to tourists, making it possible to view all of the city’s coastal beauty in just few hours.
The fastest way to get to the Island Garden City of Samal is via ferries and speed boats from Davao City which approximately takes 2 hours. Davao City, equipped with bus terminals and international seaports and airports, is accessible via land, air and water.

The Island Garden City of Samal is currently bidding to gain the moniker as the Philippines’ Island of Festivals. Among the festivals the locals celebrate are the Hugyaw Madayaw Samal (August 29-30), which is a cultural celebration of the practices of the Sama tribe; Kabasan Festival (May 22-28), which is in honor of the founding anniversary of the then Municipality of Babak; Bat Festival (last week of January) which is aimed at promoting the environmental benefits of bats; and Pangapog Festival (first weekend of August) which is in thanksgiving to Magbabaya or the Sama God.

With the city’s number of merry-makings scheduled all year round, no doubt the Island Garden City of Samal will earn their much anticipated moniker soon. (Samal Travel Guide by www.Mindanaoan.com)

If you set foot in the lands of Zamboanga City, one of the first things that get into your mind is the feeling that you’re in some other part of the world, perhaps in Spain or in Latin America. But don’t be deceived, you’re not in any city in the west; you are actually in a more beautiful and alluring city called Zamboanga.

Often called as “Philippines’ little Spain” and “Asia’s Latin City,” Zamboanga City is a highly urbanized city that lies in the southernmost tip of Region IX in northwestern Mindanao. The sixth largest city in the Philippines and among the few cities independent of any province, Zamboanga City is bounded to the north by land masses and to the other directions by water formations that include the Sulu Sea (west), Moro Gulf (east), Basilan Straight (south) and Celebes Sea (south).

The city is the nearest major urban center of the Philippines to the neighboring Southeast Asian countries and an important trading market of the growth polygon called Brunei – Indonesia – Malaysia – Philippines East Asian Growth Area (BIMP – EAGA). Because of its significant location, national and international airports and seaports were established in the city which makes it accessible from key cities in the country and in Southeast Asia.

While the 333-year rule of the Spaniards left indelible imprints on the country, nowhere was its legacy and culture so embedded than in Zamboanga City. The culture, religion and language that the Spanish colonizers brought along with them remain as verdant as it were centuries ago. What makes the city greatly Hispanic is its Chabacano tounge, a delightful mix of 60% Spanish language and 40% native dialects. Chabacano is the most widely used language in the city, especially in the urban areas. In the rural areas, however, the Visayan and Muslim dialects are spoken more often.

Apart from its corrupted Spanish language, the Christian religion, which is also an influence of the Spaniards, is well exemplified in the city. In fact, it is in the area where the first Catholic diocese in Mindanao was created in 1910. The diocese, now known as the Archdiocese of Zamboanga, was the religious center of Mindanao that controlled all of the island’s Catholic missions and activities.

But, of course, there is more to Zamboanga City than just being a small replica of Spain. It’s most dominant attraction is Fort del Pilar, a coastal fort built in 1635 which is of historical and cultural significance. The former garrison features the Our Lady of Pillar shrine, a national museum and a patio. It is also the site for several important social gatherings like citywide celebrations and festivals. Apart from Fort del Pilar, Zamboanga City also prides itself with the frequently visited Barangay Taluksangay where Islam was first introduced in the area.

The city of Ozamiz is a second class city that stretches out along Panguil Bay in the northwestern part of Mindanao, Philippines. Although it is only a chartered city and not the capital of the Misamis Occidental province, Ozamiz is a prospering city that is the provincial center for health, transportation, education and commerce.

With the city’s convenient setting, it has become a historical, cultural and pilgrimage destination in this part of the country. Currently, several projects are underway to boost the development of the city and to make it an even more anticipated destination in the south.

Ozamiz City was formerly called Misamis by the early settlers composed mostly of the native Subanons, Jesuit missionaries and other Spaniards. Later, a steady influx of settlers from nearby Bukidnon, Cebu and Bohol provinces added volume to the settlement.

Because of frequent raids by pirates, a stone fort called “Cotta” was established to dispel raiding enemies. With the efficient defensive mechanism of the town, the seat of the Military Government of the then Northern Mindanao district was transferred from Iligan to Misamis’ territories. In the 18th century, the town became the capital of the northern Mindanao district until it was eventually divided into several provinces in the late 19th century.

Finally, on July 16, 1948, the town became a chartered city by virtue of House Bill No. 1656. The city was then renamed Ozamiz in honor of Jose Fortich Ozamiz who served as a governor, congressman and later, as the first and only senator from the province of Misamis Occidental.

* photo courtesy of this very talented wedding photographer in CDO

The city has grown steadily throughout the years. Today, several projects are already underway to add more vibrancy to the city like the implementation of the Panguil Bay Bridge and Bukagan Hill Development Project, coastal bypass road / boulevard construction, airport and seaport expansion, and the Misamis Occidental Special Economic Zone establishment. With all these constructions going on, a more powerful Ozamiz City will soon rise.

Ozamiz City has several notable attractions that make it a historical, cultural and pilgrimage destination in northwestern Mindanao. Its most prominent attraction is the Bukagan Hill which is home to the historical Four Great Bells purchased by the city cathedral. The hill also provides a panoramic view of Ozamiz City, the provinces of Lanao del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur, and the majestic Panguil Bay. One of its historical attractions is the Cotta Fort and Cotta Shrine which is reminiscent of the wartime days of the city.

Adding to its roster of attractions are Naomis’s Botanical Garden and Tourist Inn, which is a vast sanctuary of tropical flowers and fruits; Mt. Malindang Golf and Country Club, which is set in a well-maintained green environment; and the Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park or MOAP, which is a shelter for aquatic animals and plants. MOAP is also known for its offer of letting tourists or guests swim with dolphins. (Ozamiz Travel Guide by Mindanaoan.com)

Butuan City is known for its booming logging industry and for its abundance of timbers; no wonder why migrants from other sides of the Philippines and from abroad settled in this highly urbanized city to seek for good fortune and agricultural profits. But more than just being the Timber City of the South, Butuan is a place where rich history, preserved culture, kind-hearted people and active economy thrive.

Butuan City is the provincial capital of the Agusan del Norte province and the regional center of the Caraga Region in the northeastern part of Mindanao. It sprawls near the mouth of the Agusan River, the deepest, widest and longest navigable river in Mindanao. On the north, it is bounded by several municipalities of Agusan del Norte; on the east by the Agusan del Sur province; and on the northwest by Butuan Bay.

There are many versions of the etymology of Butuan City. Some believe that the name is derived from a sour fruit called “Batuan”. Others believe that it originated from a chieftain named “Datu Buntuan” who once governed the area. Scholars, on another side, believe that it came from the dialect word “But-an”, which literally means a person with a discerning, kind-hearted and sound disposition.

The city prides itself with its very rich and significant historical background. As early as the 10th century, Butuan natives had already established trading relations with the Srivijaya Empire of Java, Indonesia and the Kingdom of Champa (located in southern Vietnam). A century later, the area became the center of trade and commerce in the Philippines. Archeologists provide proof to this: the discovery of 9 balangays (native boat) and other related relics in the vicinity of the area, specifically in Ambangan, Libertad near the old Masao River.

Aside from its trading relations with other countries, the area also has the reputation of being the site at which Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan proclaimed Spanish rule over the Philippine Islands in 1521. Although debates are still on going, the area is also believed to be the site of the holding of the first mass in the country. What is true for sure is that Magellan set foot on the area and spread Christianity to the native people.

Starting 1950s, the area became busy and crowded with the boom of the logging industry. This inspired the townspeople to petition for the conversion of the area into a city. Finally, on August 1950, the area became the first city in the Caraga Region.

From Manila, it will take you only 1 and a half hour to get to Butuan City. With its location on the northeastern coast of Mindanao, the city can also be reached via water transportation from almost all key cities in the Visayas. Buses that are bound for Butuan are readily available in any capital city in Mindanao. (Butuan Travel Guide by Mindanaoan.com)

This is a continuation of my “Mindanaoan In America” blog series

You can read more about my escapades in the USA when I was a 2012 International Visitor Leadership Program delegate HERE.

The first state that we stayed in was Washington DC. Like many states in America, Washington has its own subway or railway system. They call it the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit or simply – Metro.

I found the Metro Washington DC subway easy to understand although my group and I did have to be guided by our ELO Alan especially when we already had to buy our very first fare cards or train tickets You can find below a photo of the farecards and passes machines – you can buy tickets there or you can always approach a friendly Metro employee.

Here are some easy to follow tips on how to navigate and what to do while within the premises of the Washington DC USA metro railway:

No eating or drinking is allowed.

Seating for handicapped persons are available.

Take extra note of the routes you’re supposed to follow. There might be a need for you to change trains.

According to the Metro Washington railway management, the most crowded times are 7:45 to 8:45 a.m. and 4:45 to 5:45 p.m and the busiest days are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

If you’re not in a hurry, you might want to ride the train during “reduced fare hours.” My group did this and we saved close to a dollar for a one-way trip, if I’m not mistaken.

Check the official Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority website for more tips, maps, real time arrivals, routes and fare tables