Tierra Events

Miss Iloilo Dingayang 2011

2010-12-05T16:30:00.001-08:00

Twelve lovely ladies from different colleges and universities in Iloilo vying for the crown of Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2011, one of the most prestigious beauty pageants in Iloilo as part of the continious celebration for Iloilo Dinagyang Festival 2011.

Here are the list of candidates for Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2011

Gretchen Grandest-University of San Agustin

Sunshine de Guzman - AMA Computer College

Sigrid Grace Flores - the University of the Philippines Visayas

Rain Catapang -Riverview Adventist Academy

Krishna Lei Dingo - West Visayas State University

Sofia Lyn Ochoa - College de San Jose

Kchyrziahchayne Dynelle Dinopol - UPV

Nadaine Broñola - Central Philippine University

Leonor Faunillo-USA

Samantha Marie Amparo - WVSU

Zyra Grace Vedad - WVSU.

The search for Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2011 is up to a higher level as the prize package for the pageant winner includes travel abroad as Ambassadress of Goodwill.

In addition to the trip abroad, Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2011 will receive a cash prize, trophy, sash, a bouquet of flowers, plaque and other gifts fit for a beauty queen.

This was announced by the new management of the Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2011 as application forms for contestants are being distributed in different outlets to attract young ladies to join and vie for the title.

The coronation pageant of Miss Dinagyang 2011 will be on January 18, 2011 with pageant host, actor Derek Ramsay.

Pacquiao vs Margarito:A punch that can beat Pacquiao

2010-11-08T23:31:00.000-08:00

Filipino sports analyst Al Mendoza believes there is only way Manny Pacquiao can lose to Antonio Margarito on Sunday--through one lucky punch from the Mexican.

“So, ang putok lang na pwedeng abutin ni Pacquiao ay suntok. Isang lucky punch lang ang makakatama...para matalo si Pacquiao. Ganun kasimple ang laban, isang lucky punch lang from Margarito para madisgrasya si Pacquiao,” the veteran sports writer told dzMM's Ted Failon and Pinky Webb on Thursday.

Pacquiao and Margarito will battle for the World Boxing Council (WBC) light middleweight title on Saturday (Sunday in Manila) at the Cowboys Stadium, in Arlington, Texas.

With Margarito’s few “advantages,” Mendoza said it will be hard to prevent a Pacquiao victory.

“Ang dalawang pangunahing advantage ni Margarito ay ang kanyang height, iyong taas niya na 5'11" at iyong lakas din niya. Pero sa bilis, wala siya nun. Nandun kay Pacquiao lahat iyon,” he said.

Mendoza added that the Tijuana Tornado’s power doesn’t even stand a match against that of the 5’6” Fighter of the Decade.

“Ika nga, malaki ka nga at mataas, kung ang kalaban mo ay mabilis, wala rin,” he said, noting the Filipino boxer’s pluses in the fight.

“Dalawa ang power ni Pacquiao, ang bilis at lakas. Kahit san sya tumama, malakas eh,” he said.

Pacquiao’s speed will be key

In terms of speed and discipline, Mendoza said Margarito still hasn’t reached the 7-division champion’s standards.

“Ang problema kay Margarito, sugod ng sugod din iyan eh,” he said, adding that this drawback works to the advantage of Pacquiao.

“So, swak na swak sa istilo ni Pacquiao. Ika nga sa Ingles, ‘Come to my parlor.’ Pag ka sumugod si Pacquiao, wala na. Isang suntok ka lang o dalawa, laglag ka na,” he said.

Mendoza added that he is confident of Pacquiao’s sure win, given that the boxer is in the company of reliable trainers.

“Si (coach) Freddie Roach, alam niya ang paghubog ng isang magaling na boksingero papunta sa gabi ng laban. Si Alex Ariza, ang kanyang conditioning expert, ay namaster na niya ang paghulma ng boksingero,” he said.

Mendoza, who rooted for de la Hoya against Pacquiao in August 2008, declared his faith in Pacquiao continuing to make history.

“Wala pang nakakagawa niyan [8 titles in 8 divisions]. Talagang phenomenal iyan, talagang kakaibang tao itong si Pacquiao,” he said.

FIBA 2010 Results and Schedule

2010-09-01T02:40:00.000-07:00

Right here are the current scheduled matches from August 31- September 1 regarding the FIBA World Championship 2010.

Group A – Kayseri Arena, Kayseri (September 1)
* Serbia vs Australia
* Germany vs Angola
* Argentina vs Jordan

Group B – Abdi Ipekci Arena, Istanbul (September 1)
* Croatia vs Tunisia
* Iran vs USA
* Brazil vs Slovenia

Group C- Ankara Arena (August 31)
* Russia vs Cote d’lvoire
* Puerto Rico vs China
* Greece vs Turkey

(September 1)
* China vs Russia
* Cote d’lvoire vs Greece
* Turkey vs Puerto Rico

Group D – Izmir Halkapinar Sport Hall (August 31)
* New Zealand vs Lebanon
* France vs Canada
* Spain vs Lithuania

(September 1)
* Canada vs New Zealand
* Lebanon vs Spain
* Lithuania vs France

FIBA World Championship 2010 Results and Schedules

2010-08-31T04:15:00.000-07:00

The 2010 FIBA World Championship is hosted by Turkey. This event goes from August 28 to September 12, 2010. This is co-structured by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), Turkish Basketball Federation and the 2010 Organizing Committee. This is considered as renowned a battle as the Olympic Basketball Tournament.

For the third time (after the 1986 and 2006 tournaments), the World Championship will have 24 contending nations. As the outcome, the party point matches will be played out in four different locations, and the knockout round will be hosted by Istanbul.

The draw for the Championship took place on December 15, 2009 in Istanbul. Competitors were being utilized within four preliminary round groups of six teams each. Teams will then play a round robin schedule, with the top sixteen teams advancing to the knockout stage.

Watch FIBA 2010

WATCH FIBA 2010 STREAMING

FIBA 2010 Results

FIBA 2010 Schedule

Volcano in Indonesia erupted for the second time

2010-08-30T20:09:00.000-07:00

Mount Sinabung on the north of Sumatra island is an inactive volcano for four centuries,erupted for the second time on Monday, killing two persons, forcing more than 27,000 people to escape homes, and threatening international aviation.

Video from :NTDTV

Double Moon August 27

2010-08-26T22:50:00.000-07:00

Planet Mars will be the brightest in the sky from August.It will look as large as the full moon to the naked eye.mars comes witin 34.65 miles of the earth.

On August 27th. Go outside at sunset and face west. The bright light you see shining through the twilight is lovely Venus. Grab a pair of binoculars and scan the sky around Venus. A few degrees to the right, you'll come across a little orange star-like object. That is Mars.

Google Voice

2010-08-26T05:51:00.000-07:00

You can now Make and Recieve Calls from Gmail via Google Voice

Google Voice is a telecommunications service by Google. The service provides a US phone number, chosen by the user from available numbers in selected area codes, free of charge to each user account. Inbound calls to this number are forwarded to other phone numbers of the subscriber. Outbound calls may be placed to domestic and international destinations by dialing the Google Voice number or from a web-based application. Inbound and outbound calls to US (including Alaska and Hawaii) and Canada are free of charge. International calls are billed according to a schedule posted on the Google Voice website.

The service is configured and maintained by the user in a web-based application, styled after Google's e-mail service, Gmail. Users must have an established US telephone service to activate Google Voice. Users must configure this and optionally, additional phone numbers that ring simultaneously when the Google Voice number receives a call. The user may answer and receive the call on any of the ringing phones. Google Voice provides additional features such as voicemail, call history, conference calling, call screening, blocking of unwanted calls, and voice transcription to text of voicemail messages. Received calls may be moved between configured telephones during a call.

Here are the steps from Google on how to use this feature.

To get started, check the box next to Google Chat in your list of forwarding phones and the next time someone calls your Google Voice number, Gmail will notify you of an incoming call. You can take the call or even listen in as the caller leaves a message, in a single step right from your computer.

To make a call, just click the Call phone link in Gmail and enter any number or name from your address book.

FYI Just visit gmail.com/call.

Maria Venus Raj

2010-08-25T18:37:00.000-07:00

Miss Philippines: 4th-runner up Miss Universe 2010

Maria Venus Raj was born in Doha, Qatar to an Indian father and a Filipina mother. Upon birth, Raj was taken by her mother to Bato, Camarines Sur in Bicol Region, Philippines as an infant and was registered by an aunt as a Philippine-born child to Roman Catholic parents.Raj grew up with her mother, a former tenant farmer and dressmaker who brought Maria Venus Raj up as a child.

Raj lived in a nipa hut made of wood, bamboo and anahaw leaves with no electricity in the middle of a sprawling rice field in the rural Bato town for more than twenty years. She allegedly used rice paddy dikes for her early training where she eventually developed her distinct catwalk.

The youngest among five children, Maria Venus Raj started joining local beauty pageants at four years old. She also joined oratorical contests at San Vicente Pre-School where her English teacher served as her coach. With her victories in major contests, Venus Raj had started to buy land on installment basis for her mother as a means of improving their livelihood.

Raj obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Communications Arts, major in Journalism, at Bicol University in Albay, with Latin honors (Cum Laude). She graduated through the scholarship that she received from Francis Papica Foundation.Back in the Philippines, she works as an Information Assistant for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Region V.

In addition to this, she also works as a part-time fashion model.

Manila Hostage

2010-08-23T06:16:00.000-07:00

Watch Live here:
http://abscbn-newslive.wm.llnwd.net/abscbn_newslive

Pacquiao vs Margarito

2010-08-19T03:46:00.000-07:00

Watch Manny Pacquuiao vs Antonio Margarito Fight Live Stream

Pacquiao vs Margarito fight was set on November 13 2010 either in Vegas or in Mexico.Pacquiao's promoter Bob Arum announced that Pacquiao will move up to the junior middleweight division to fight Antonio Margarito for the vacant position . But there were many rumors that Pacquiao will fight Margarito for the eight world titles.

Some said that Pacquiao would like to set the fight on Mexico because as he went there,he noticed that he was being loved by the Mexicans.And also if he fight on Nevada he might deducted a tax percentage.

Manny Pacquiao

Manny Pacquiao, sometimes known simply as "Pac Man," began his career in 1995, at age 16. He won his first couple of fights, before bumping into Rustico Torrecampo, who scored a third-round KO over Pacquiao. Pacquiao went forward with his career, before fighting Chokchai Chockvivat for the OPBF

flyweight title. A few fights later in December of 1998, Pacquiao fought WBC flyweight champion Chatchai Sasakul. The bout was very even, the champion being elusive and a good counter puncher. Pacquiao won by KO in round eight, after which Sasakul did not get up for a few minutes. Pacquiao's next noteworthy assignment came when he fought Lehlohonolo Ledwaba for the IBF 122 lb title. Pacquiao came as a late sub on a few weeks notice and dominated the fight, knocking out the champ in six rounds. Pacquiao made a string of IBF title defenses before moving up in weight and fighting Marco Antonio Barrera. Pacquiao boxed well and his southpaw style seemed to be troubling Barrera. Pacquiao knocked down Barrera three times in this fight. Next Pacquiao fought Juan Manuel Marquez. Marquez was down three times in the first round. However, Marquez did come back to win many of the latter rounds and secure a draw. Pacquiao was then signed for a match with Erik Morales, at 130 pounds after a rematch with Marquez never materialized, because of Marquez demanding far too much money. In a candidate for Fight of the Year, Morales won a slim decision against Pacquiao, winning on all three judges scorecards by scores of 115-113.

Antonio Margarito

Antonio Margarito Montiel (born on March 18, 1978 in Torrance, California) is an American boxer of Mexican descent (albeit marketed as a Mexican boxer), and former World Boxing Association Welterweight Champion.He is also a former International Boxing Federation and World Boxing Organization Welterweight champion. Margarito's reputation was tarnished by an incident in which his corner is alleged to have tampered with his hand wraps prior to his bout with Shane Mosley, which were found by the CSAC to contain sulfur and calcium, which combine with oxygen to form "Plaster of Paris". He also now manages top Lightweight boxing Prospect Miguel Vazquez. Margarito resides in Tijuana, Mexico.

Philippine Travel Guide

2010-08-19T03:05:00.000-07:00

Luzon

Laoag

area code (77)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Balay da Blas Pension House has a simple yet homey vibe. 10 Giron Street Barangay 7-B, Laoag City, tel: (77)
770 4389, +63 917 570 2110, email: balaydablas@yahoo.com

WHERE TO SHOP

Get Abel Iloco blankets and handicrafts at the Batac and Paoay local markets For the best biscocho (Spanish biscuit), head over to the Pasuquin Bakery in Pasuquin. Enjoy biscocho s

andwiches with longganisa and tocino (cured sausage and pork strips)

WHERE TO EAT

Riverside in Batac for the best Ilocos empanada (meat-fi lled pastry) and miki (thick chicken noodle soup) that are served from mid-afternoon to evening For Ilocano food with a twist, try Saramsam Café (near the Texicano
Hotel), especially the Saramsam pasta

WHAT TO SEE

Soak up the city’s history and culture at Museo Ilocos Norte. Gen Luna Street, Laoag City

Best breakfast
Leaders’ Fastfood (open from 3am to 10am) at P Gomez St for an authentic Ilocano breakfast

Best night out
Go to Cockhouse Bar

Must-eats
Ilocano treats like bagnet (deep fried pork meat), longganisa (native sausage), or Café Herencia’s pinakbet (meat and vegetable stew with shrimp paste) pizza!

Must-buys
Sukang Ilocos (vinegar) and basi (sugarcane wine)

Insider’s tip
Go to open markets on Wednesday and Sunday morning

Clark

area code (45)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Experience luxury villas with manicured lawns at Fontana Leisure Parks and Casino, CM Recto Highway, Clark Special Economic Zone

WHERE TO SHOP

Sort through ukay-ukay (second-hand) items every Friday in the Divisoria-like market in Apo, Angeles City

WHERE TO EAT

For American burgers and steaks suited to the Filipino taste, try Rumpa’s. Surla Street, Balibago, Angeles City
Toll House for cheap and tasty meals. Their baked macaroni is a favorite. Sto Rosario Street, Angeles City

WHAT TO SEE

See mountain scenery and the Miyamit Falls. The 28km trail offers access to the crater-lake of Mt Pinatubo

Best breakfast
The buffet breakfast at the Holiday Inn

Best night out
Partyplace in San Fernando for live music acts; Southborder used to be a regular and a lot of other big acts play there. Also, Bruno and Diego in Balibago

Must-eats
Tocino, longganisa, the sticky rice delicacy biringhe, and so much more!

Must-buys
A small parol (star-shaped Christmas lantern) which you can hang on the rearview mirror of your car

Insider’s tip
Visit Hilaga Village in San Fernando, Pampanga where you can learn about the four northern regions of Luzon

Legazpi

area code (52)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Pepperland Hotel has spacious, clean and comfortable rooms. It is located around 300 meters from the airport
and accessible by public transportation going downtown. Airport Road, Washington Drive, Legazpi City, tel: (52) 481 8000

WHERE TO SHOP

The Bicol region’s largest shopping mall, Pacifi c Mall Legazpi, houses Metro Gaisano department store and
supermarket, numerous boutiques, cinemas, a food court and an amusement center. Landco Business
Park, downtown Legazpi

WHERE TO EAT

The restaurants in the capitol grounds feature international fl avors. Head to Gasthof, the German restaurant from Boracay, for good sausages. Chickin Resto Bar serves Bicol’s local delicacies. For Chinese food, check out Kamboat

WHAT TO SEE

What’s a trip to Legazpi without getting a souvenir snap by the ruins of Cagsawa with the majestic Mayon Volcano as your gorgeous backdrop? Do some serious bird watching at the Mayon Volcano Ecological Campsite. Albay Park and Wildlife is also defi nitely worth a visit

Best breakfast
There are two restaurants in the airport that serve delicious beef tapa steak

Best night out
Catch bands playing in Chickin Resto Bar every Friday and Saturday

Must-eats
Pinangat (a spicy Bicol delicacy with chopped pork, coconut milk and chilis)

Must-buys
Bring home the best pinangat from Camalig, Albay, which is 15km away from Legazpi. Get pili nut products – salted, sugar-coated and more – from Albay Pili Nut

Insider’s tip
Hire a van to take you to see the different attractions of Legazpi

Manila

Area Code: (2)
From the Airport: The ride to the tourist districts of Manila and Makati should take around 30 minutes, and cost about PHP450 (US$9.45)

Getting Around: Taxis are recommended as opposed to buses and jeepneys. Make sure they turn on the meter. The MRT/LRT is faster, but limited and only open from 5:30am to 10:30pm. Cars may be hired, with driver

WHERE TO SLEEP

G Hotel Manila by Waterfront if you want to stay in a cozy boutique hotel near Manila Bay, 2090 Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila, tel: (2) 525 0888, www.g-hotel.com.ph

WHERE TO SHOP

Drop by the SM Mall of Asia, the largest shopping mall in the country. It features hundreds of shops and restaurants, the fi rst Imax theater, and the fi rst Olympicsized ice skating rink in the country. West of Roxas Blvd, Pasay City

WHERE TO EAT

Esconsed in the Legarda ancestral home in an old district of Manila, La Cocina de Tita Moning is an elegant venue for full course dinners and lunches. Reservations required. 315 San Rafael Street, San Miguel District, Manila, tel: (2) 734 2146, email: talktous@ lacocinadetitamoning.com

Best breakfast
Try the ubiquitous Filipino breakfast tapsilog, or buy pandesal, fresh from the oven of any local bakery

Best night out
Party places are Libis in Quezon City, the Fort in Makati and Malate in Manila.

Must-eats
Try Greenbelt 5, in Makati and don’t forget to try restaurants that have made their mark like Aristocrat and Savory

Insider’s tip
Visit the historical city of Intramuros as well as Paco Park Cemetery

Naga

area code (54)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Grand Imperial Plaza, which is at the heart of Naga’s business district. P. Burgos corner J. Hernandez Avenue,
Naga City, tel: (54) 473 6534

WHERE TO SHOP

Giringgiting for souvenirs. Shop 1 Level 2 Galeria de San Francisco Peñafrancia Ave, Naga City

WHERE TO EAT

Feast on Bicolano dishes and crispy pata at Bob Marlin Restaurant and Grill. Magsaysay Avenue, Naga City, tel: (54) 473 1339

WHAT TO SEE

The famed Camsur Watersports Complex for some wakeboarding, wakeskating, and waterskiing. CWC Provincial Capitol Complex Cadlan, Pili, Camarines Sur, tel: (54) 475 0689, email: info@camsurwatersportscomplex.com

Best breakfast
Try the breakfast at Chili Peppers as well as Jellato

Best night out
Molino Grill

Must-eats
The Bicol Express at Triboo Grill, pinangat (a dish of gabi leaves, chili, meat and coconut milk), and Bob Marlin’s delicious lengua (ox’s tongue)

Must-buys
Pili nuts, handicrafts, and the seafood at Pasacao Wet Market

Insider’s tip
With its cool dry season, November is a great time to visit Naga City – you can start your festive feasting early!

San Jose

area code (43)

WHERE TO SLEEP

El Mora is a two-storey boutique hotel which has four themed rooms and two swimming pools (one for kids), tel: (43) 491 4869, www.elmorahotel.com The Sikatuna Beach Hotel is a scenic haven with all the comforts of home, tel: (43) 491 2182, email: sikatuna@meacsoft.com

WHERE TO SHOP

Shop for local souvenirs at the San Jose Market dry goods section. You’ll fi nd cheap clothes, home supplies, and other bargain items

WHERE TO EAT

For affordable meals, try Nice and Spice Fast Food and the small cafeterias around town and near the market

WHAT TO SEE

The city of San Jose has three islands that have become tourist attractions for marine enthusiasts. Ambulong Island is known for its white beaches and coral formations. Ilin Island boasts an abundance of shells and coral reefs but also has ancient Chinese burial caves and ethnic fi shing villages. Finally, the Apo Reef Marine Park is a world-class diving site. If you are not a water buff, you can visit the Mount Iglit National Park to check out the Mindoro tamaraw buffalo, a rare and endangered relative of the water buffalo

Best breakfast
Sikatuna Beach Resort, Seacoast Resort and Restaurant, and Mindoro Plaza Hotel

Best night out
Hang out at Pilot’s Lounge

Must-eats
We have the best tasting tuyo (dried fi sh)

Must-buys
Our fresh and affordable seafood – crab, prawn, milkfi sh, tuna, and marlin

Insider’s tip
The best time to visit San Jose is during the 10-day fi esta, which runs from April 21 to May 1. There are a lot of activities lined up, including a fl uvial parade, the Agbiliwa Trade Fair, street dancing, and more

Tuguegarao

area code (78)

WHERE TO SLEEP

You can take your pick from several DOT-accredited economy hotels around the city.

Villa Blanca Hotel has generous sized rooms and an adjacent garage for security. Pattaui St, Ugac Norte Tuguegarao, tel: (78) 844 1819 Hotel Candice, Luna corner Blumentritt Streets, Tuguegarao, tel: (78) 844 2001

WHERE TO SHOP

Head out to Brickstone Mall located at Pengue Ruyu, Tuguegarao, tel: (78) 844 0059

WHERE TO EAT

Have a taste of the Cagayan region’s native delicacies at Kusina De Cagayana. National Highway, Pengue-Ruyu, Tuguegarao, tel: (78) 844 2880 and (78) 846 8249

WHAT TO SEE

Do take time to see the Iguig Calvary Hills, which depicts the 14 Stations of the Cross in life-size concrete monuments on several rolling hills. Located in Cagayan Valley, 16 kilometers from Tuguegarao City

Visit the breathtaking Palaui Island which is a couple of hours away from the city. It offers white sand beaches,
rich marine life, and rugged mountains

Best breakfast
All hotels in Tuguegarao offer very good breakfast fare

Best night out
The Port, a videoke-restaurant at Barangay Palua

Must-eats
Carabeef, Tuguegarao longganisa, carabao milk candy and pancit batil patung (noodles topped with fried egg)

Must-buys
Chichacarabao, which is beef chicharon

Insider’s tip
Try riding a calesa, a horse-drawn carriage

Busuanga

WHERE TO SLEEP

Check out Las Hamacas Resort in Busuanga. A reasonably priced “by reservation only” resort, it offers beach
side cottages and a serene lagoon in its backyard. In the evenings, the area around the resort is lit by fi refl ies
dancing in the trees. Barangay Putod, Salvacion, tel: +63 917 622 9668

WHERE TO SHOP

Buy local souvenirs made from indigenous materials by local artists and tribesmen, as well as artsy t-shirts
and other items at Al Linsangans’ shop. Corong Galerii. Barangay 3, Coron Town, tel: +63 920 254 6553

WHERE TO EAT

The Chili Crabs at Las Hamacas Resort are cooked using crabs freshly caught from the lagoon right behind its kitchen. Sample their other succulent seafood dishes and the lato (seaweed) salad!

Best breakfast
Breakfast of marinated, half-dried danggit fi sh fried to perfection and served with garlic rice and scrambled
eggs at Darayonan Lodge

Best night out
Kawayan Grill in Barangay 3 has a live band and lively atmosphere

Must-eats
Bandi (toasted cashews cooked in honey)

Must-buys
Bandi and lamayo (partly dried vinegarsoaked fi sh)

Insider’s tip
Please don’t litter our unspoiled beaches

Visayas

Bacolod

area code (34)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Planta Centro Bacolod Hotel and Residences features 82 rooms, two ballrooms, a garden courtyard (perfect
for weddings), and more. Araneta corner Roxas Streets, tel: (34) 468 0400, www.bacolodplantahotel.com
Pension Bacolod and Restaurant (voted the number one pension house in Bacolod) offers clean and cheap rooms. No. 27 11th Lacson Street, Bacolod City, tel: (34) 434 7065

WHERE TO SHOP

Take home napoleones and mango pastillas from Virgie’s. 59 San Sebastian Street, Bacolod City, tel: (34) 434 1788, email: virgieshomemade@hotmail.com

WHERE TO EAT

Enjoy mouthwatering Japanese food in Shiawase at Marapara Golf and Country Club. You can also get the
freshest seafood at Pala-Pala, the wet market. Ask the attendant to have it cooked just the way you want it

WHAT TO SEE

Visit San Sebastian Cathedral, built in 1876, and the older Palacio Episcopal

Best breakfast
Business Inn has native breakfast items in their buffet, including suman, longganisa, tapa and hot chocolate

Best night out
Mu Shu!

Must-eats
Grilled chicken inasal

Must-buys
Mango tarts, piaya (unleavened bread fi lled with raw sugar), and pinasugbo (sugar-coated hardened banana slices)

Insider’s tips
Bacolod’s biggest annual event, the Masskara, takes place in late October

Dumaguete

area code (35)

WHERE TO SLEEP

At the quaint apartment hotel complex of Florentina Homes, which is ideal for a long-term stay or for a big group traveling. Rovira Road, Bantayan, Dumaguete City, tel: (35) 422 0827, email: florentinahomes@yahoo.com

WHERE TO SHOP

Gifts Fashion by Gift Regalado who designs unique, handcrafted accessories. 2 Regalado Apartment Villa Amanda Subdivision, Pulangtubig, Dumaguete City, tel: (35) 422 0097

WHERE TO EAT

Feast on delicious Italian food at Italia Restaurant. Noblefranca Street, behind Boston Market Why Not? Deli sells as well as serves freshly baked wheat bread and lombardie, a special kind of bread. 70 Rizal Boulevard
Enjoy delicious pizza at Hayahay on the beach. Along Flores Avenue

WHAT TO SEE

Go for a seaside picnic or beach comb along Silliman Beach Learn to dive and see the great marine life on Apo Island. Make sure you see the dolphins and whales in Bais Bay Work up a healthy sweat and hike to the
three lakes atop Mount Talinis

Best breakfast
At Why Not? Deli, they make lombardie, wheat bread and tasty sausages

Best night out
Gabby’s Bistro (at Florentina Homes) for wine and Hayahay along Flores Avenue for pizza

Must-eats
Budbod kabog (steamed birdseed, coconut milk, and sugar) from Chantilly

Must-buys
Sylvannas (Spanish sweets) from the Sans Rival Bakeshop

Insider’s tip
Rent a motorcycle and explore the city

Iloilo

area code (33)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center makes for a grand and elegant residence when you’re visiting Iloilo. 101 Gen. Luna Street, Iloilo City, tel: (33) 335 1021 to 32, www.sarabiamanorhotel.com

WHERE TO SHOP

Buy Iloilo’s famous delicacies at the Original Biscocho House, a popular bakeshop with several branches. One of the older and bigger stores is found across the road from Jaro Plaza and the cathedral in the district of Jaro

WHAT TO EAT

Have one of the best tasting La Paz Batchoy at Deco’s. It’s cheap too! La Sallette building, Valeria Street
Pizza, pasta, tasty tenderloin steak, ox tongue in creamy mushroom sauce, and lamb chops at Afrique’s. Behind Jaro Cathedral and outside Hotel Del Rio along General Luna Street

Best breakfast
Lumpiang ubud (spring roll with coconut, shrimp and heart of palm) at Emilion Pinoy

Best night out
MO2 Videoke and Resto bar

Must-eats
Try the shrimp tempura at Maki’s

Must-buys
Buy baked goods and confectionery as pasalubong from Biscocho House

Insider’s tip
Iloilo city’s streets and curving riverside make it very conducive to exploration on foot

Cebu

area code (32)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Located atop a hill, Marco Polo Plaza offers comfortable three-star digs and one of the best buffet breakfasts in town (Café Marco). Cebu Veteran’s Drive, Nivel Hills, Lahug, tel: (32) 253 1111 and (32) 887 1263

WHERE TO SHOP

For Cebu’s famous handcrafted guitars, head over to Mactan Island. If you have more time, you can even check out the rows of guitar factories in Abuno for their showrooms and see how guitars are made traditionally – just make sure you have a ride to get there

WHERE TO EAT

For a delicious selection of barbecues and a low-budget, no-frills, sumptuous eating experience, head over to Larsian, Cebu’s very popular row of barbecue stands. Located in the area near Fuente Osmeña and Chong Hua Hospital

WHAT TO SEE

Cebu’s Sinulog Festival (every third Sunday of January) is still a couple of months away but it’s never too early to book your trip in advance to watch the grand parade. Click on www.sinulog.ph for more information

The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño where the oldest religious relic in the Philippines resides. The statue was a gift from Queen Juana to Ferdinand Magellan and has survived fi res and wars

Best breakfast
Try the fresh seafood!

Best night out
The Loft at Skyrise, Banilad Town Center, and AsiaTown IT Park Lahug

Must-eats
Seafood specials at Café Laguna or Lighthouse, the best sisig in town at ZAO in Guadalupe, and fresh or dried mangoes

Must-buys
Dried squid, squid fl akes, dried mango and fl avored otap (oval sugary biscuit)

Insider’s tip
Every morning, Pasil fishport brings in the freshest fi sh. I highly recommend the blue marlin

Kalibo

area code (36)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Check in the DOT-accredited La Esperanza Hotel, which is conveniently situated near the town and the station
of the buses, vans, and jeepneys bound for nearby Caticlan, Roxas City, Iloilo and other nearby must-see places. Located at Osmeña Avenue, Kalibo, Aklan, tel: (36) 262 3989, (36) 268 9254, and (36) 262 5658

WHERE TO SHOP

Buy Aklan’s famous piña fabrics and other products at the Hugod Aklanon Tourism and Trade Center in Kalibo
Tourism Center. Burgos Street (between Veterans Avenue and Mabini Street), Kalibo, Aklan

WHERE TO EAT

For sumptuous European sausages, steaks, and potato rosti, dine at Willhelm Tell Deli and Restaurant. Roxas Avenue, Kalibo, Aklan Known for its Pinoy food, Mix and Match is reasonably priced wth a friendly service
crew. L Barrios Street, Kalibo, Aklan

WHAT TO SEE

Take a walk along a rickety bamboo footbridge at Bakhawan Eco Park in New Buswang, Kalibo. This mangrove reforestation project has won several awards – one of them being Best in Asia – and offers hours of active fun within the spacious green park

Best breakfast
Choose between continental favorites and Aklan specialties such as inubarang manok at Tierra Vega

Best night out
Also at Tierra Vega. Like Boracay but less pretentious and more cozy

Must-eats
Sticky-sweet suman – rice cake – and banana chips

Must-buys
Piña (pineapple silk) for your barong Tagalog (men’s formal wear)

Insider’s tip
Talk to the locals—we all know how to enjoy la vita bella

Caticlan

area code (36)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Nami Beach Resort is a cliff-side property that offers select rooms with outdoor jacuzzis and great views, lovely
food and the most personalized service. The spa treatments are absolutely relaxing. Diniwid Beach, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, tel: (36) 288 6753 to 55, email: namiboracay@yahoo.ca

WHERE TO SHOP

For affordable souvenirs (don’t forget to haggle) and places to eat (try the paluto, where you buy your own ingredients and have people cook them for a small fee), head over to D’ Talipapa. It recently opened more stores and restaurants. Near Boat Station Two

WHERE TO EAT

Sink your teeth into authentic Indian food at True Food. Sit down on cushions on the fl oor as you feast on low tables. Try rogan josh, which is lamb cooked in rich tomato and yoghurt. On White Beach

Best breakfast
Lemoni Café for its eggs benedict and poached eggs with smoked tangigue, and Zuzuni’s waffl es and pancakes

Best night out
Live reggae music at Bom Bom Bar and Pat’s Bar

Must-eats
Chori-burger! Also, paella and tapas at Dos Mestisos

Must-buys
Puka shell bracelets from Puka Beach

Insider’s tip
Hail for a tricycle – it’s PHP7 to PHP20 depending on your destination. When you queue, they charge PHP50 upfront

Roxas City

area code (36)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Next to a shopping mall and near the city center and Baybay Beach, La Hacienda Hotel features clean and
comfortable rooms. Arnaldo Blvd, Roxas City, tel: (36) 621 5129

Casa Felisa has an exclusive swimming pool and recreational center. San Antonio Beach Resort, Barangay Baybay, Roxas City

WHERE TO SHOP

Bring home some lovely potted ornamental plants (Capiz is a major producer of orchids) from the Capiz Multi-Purpose Cooperative. Balay Kapiznon Tradehouse, McKinley Street, Roxas City, tel: (36) 621 3445, email:
capiz_mcpi@yahoo.com

WHERE TO EAT

ead to popular chain Jo’s Inato for chicken barbecue and other grilled goodies. Washington Street, Roxas City,
tel: +36 621 0677 Taste the seafood dishes on display at open-air food stalls, restaurants and eateries along the shores of Roxas City. Try Kainan Village, Marc’s, RML Manokan, Tabai, Way Farer and Flatrock

WHAT TO SEE

Spend a day at Baybay Beach where you can jog, swim, or have a picnic by the shore

Best breakfast
Kainan Village

Best night out
Visit The Sandbar by the beach where you can enjoy great music with your favorite drink

Must-eats
Enjoy fresh seafood at Marc’s, RML Manokan and Tabai

Must-buys
Dried seafood, handcrafted bags, and home decor made from indigenous materials

Insider’s tip
Enjoy the nature and serenity at Roxas City’s mini Boracay named Olotayan

Puerto Princesa

area code (48)

WHERE TO SLEEP

At the Asturias Hotel, all the rooms face the swimming pool or the lush garden. South National Highway, Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa, tel: (48) 434 3851 or (2) 751 3615 (Manila offi ce)

WHERE TO SHOP

Bring home some handicrafts (such as a rainmaker, harvest fi gurines, mahogany walking canes, etc.) from Kamantian Native Handicrafts. Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa City

WHERE TO EAT

Check out Kalui, where you can take off your shoes, sit on the fl oor, and eat with your bare hands. Feel free to gorge on crabs, clams, and other fresh seafood. 369 Rizal Avenue, tel: (48) 933 2580

WHAT TO SEE

At Mount Salakot there’s a popular three-layer waterfall that drops into a cool pool of water. Swim, have a picnic in one of the huts nearby, or even look out for the rare, colorful butterfl ies found there

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage List ecotourism destination, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean Underground
River National Park, with a clear lagoon at the edge of the tunnel and guaranteed sightings of monkeys and
monitor lizards

Best breakfast
I prefer going to Itoys for breakfast. It’s open as early as 6am, and it’s a favorite expat hang-out

Best night out
Young people like to frequent Kina Butch in the evenings

Must-eats
Try tamilok, a woodworm delicacy that tastes sweeter than oysters

Must-buys
Dried and fresh fi sh, cashew nuts, either roasted or bandi (peanut brittle)

Insider’s tip
Plant trees on the Feast of the Forest, on the third week of June

Tacloban

area code (53)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Leyte Park Resort Hotel offers you a view of the San Pedro Bay where it converges with the San Juanico Strait,
the world’s narrowest strait. Along Magsaysay Blvd, Tacloban

WHERE TO SHOP

Just walk along the downtown area of Tacloban and hunt for pasalubong

Fine clay pots, jars, and other garden fi xtures at Tanauan Pottery. Banadera Street, Barangay Canramos, Tanauan, tel: (53) 322 4981

WHERE TO EAT

Giuseppe’s Restaurant for tasty Filipino- Italian food. Along Veteranos Avenue

WHAT TO SEE

For an island getaway, escape to the white sand beaches of Quatro Islas off Hilongos, Leyte

Best breakfast
Bo’s Coffee serves really good breakfast. You can also try the restaurant at Leyte Park Hotel

Best night out
Eat barbecue along Rizal Avenue. Sunzibar is a good place for dinner, too

Must-eats
Kinilaw na may gata (raw seafood in coconut milk) and baked scallops

Must-buys
Binagol (sweetened taro pudding with nuts) and moron (sticky rice, coconut milk and cocoa)

Isider’s tip
See the Pintados Festival

Tagbilaran

area code (38)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Situated on a hilltop, the Peacock Garden Resort and Spa offers a luxurious space for relaxation and a
spectacular view of the sea. Laze by the infi nity pool, dine by the terrace and enjoy the resort’s Roman spa
opening soon. Upper Laya, Baclayon, Bohol, tel: (38) 416 0483, email: info@ thepeacockgarden.com

WHERE TO SHOP

Organic produce from The Buzzz, Bohol Bee Farm, which has a restaurant and café at Island City Mall in Tagbilaran. Get bottles of pure honey, freshly-baked camote bread, muffi ns, herbed tea and so much more. The farm is located at Dao, Dauis, Panglao Island, Bohol, tel: (38) 502 2288, boholbeefarm.com

WHERE TO EAT

Miravilla Seafood Restaurant for a wide variety of the freshest catches. F.C. Harrison Extension, Tagbilaran,
tel: (38) 411 3867

WHAT TO SEE

Walk through a mangrove swamp, via the boardwalk, in the town of Maribojoc, which is around 12km from
Tagbilaran. At the end of your walk, you will fi nd a small island thick with tall coconut trees. Go birdwatching at the 90km2 Rajah Sikatuna National Park’s exciting trails

Best breakfast
Puto maya (sweet glutinous rice delicacy) and rice cakes at Cogon Market with native hot chocolate

Best night out
Groove to tunes at Tachycardia wine bar

Must-eats
Fresh fruit halo-halo with honey from The Buzzz, Bohol Bee Farm

Must-buys
Bamboo rainmakers, Baclayon broas or lady fi ngers and peanut kisses

Insider’s tip
Each day of May, a town celebrates its fi esta in honor of a patron saint

Mindanao

Butuan

area (85)

WHERE TO SLEEP

For somewhere a bit out-of-the way, Tubay Mountain Beach Resort provides a rustic escape from the city. Northeast of Butuan City, it sits at the foot of a mountain, by the sea. La Fraternidad, Tubay, tel: (85) 342 350

WHERE TO SHOP

Walk along P. Burgos Street for Butuan’s version of Divisoria’s 168, where you can fi nd rows of stores selling cheap bags, toys, and more

WHERE TO EAT

For a relaxed lunch or dinner, head over to Margie’s. The cozy café is popular among Butuanons (especially the ones with their laptops in tow because of the free Wi-Fi) for having the best desserts in town. Their fresh lumpia, pandanwrapped chicken and black olive and tuyo pasta are also worth a try

WHAT TO SEE

Did you know that in the 11th century, Butuan was the country’s center of trade and commerce? Pay a visit to the National Museum and the Balanghay Shrine, a showcase of relics of seanavigating vessels built in 320 AD – nine of them have been found in Butuan

Best breakfast
Uncle Sam’s tapsilog and burgers

Best night out
Bargonomics for those who like videoke

Must-eats
Cookie monster from Margie’s Kitchen, exotic dishes from Mansion, Aling Cora’s kinilaw and chicken inato, and Weegols’ buco halo-halo

Must-buys
Bags, trinkets and throw pillows made of coco beads from Adolph

Insider’s tip
Drop by the Butuan heritage center and talk to local historian Greg Hontiveros

Cagayan De Oro

area code (88)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Apple Tree Resort and Hotel (formerly known as Lauremar Beach Hotel) is a relaxing beach retreat with a view of Macalajar Bay and Camiguin Island. Taboc, Opol, Cagayan de Oro, tel: (88) 22 735 411, appletreeresortcdo.com

WHERE TO SHOP

For mall action, head over to Limketkai Mall. It has fi ne dining restaurants, fast food chains, boutiques, four cinemas and a department store

WHERE TO EAT

Rosario Strip in Limketkai Center offers many food choices

WHAT TO SEE

Macahambus Adventure Park has gigantic century-old trees and the breathtaking Macahambus Gorge. Barangay Lumbia and Bayanga

Best breakfast
Nothing beats McDonald’s Divisoria breakfast

Best night out
The Night Café in Divisoria, which happens on weekends, has lots of great fi nds, delicious food and live bands

Must-eats
Butcher’s Best Barbeque is a barbecue place that offers great value

Must-buys
Local delicacies like pastel and cheese sticks

Insider’s tip
Do not be afraid to ask for help from locals. Cagayanons are well known for their friendliness and hospitality

Davao

area code (82)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Get four-star treatment at the Royal Mandaya Hotel. Most of its 161 guestrooms and suites provide a
wonderful view of the Davao Gulf, Mount Apo or the cityscape. J. Palma Gil Street, Davao City, tel: (82) 225 8888, email: info@royalmandaya.com

WHERE TO SHOP

The NCCC shopping complex has most of the mall essentials — a supermarket, cinemas, shops and
restaurants — and where you can buy crates of fresh fruits (pomelos, mangosteen, durian) and tuna packed in
ice ready to be shipped for pasalubong

WHERE TO EAT

Regarded as an institution among Davao restaurants, Harana Family Restaurant has been around since the 1980s and remains a favorite destination for delicious local dishes. Torres Street, Davao City

WHAT TO SEE

Eden Nature Park and Resort at the foot of Mount Talomo in Toril, Davao City. Commune with nature under a canopy of trees — or over it in thrilling sky-diver fashion! Visit the Eagle Farm in Calinan and learn all about this endangered species, succesfully bred in captivity here. And then pop by the Malagos Gardens to see gorgeous pomelo and durian fruit tree orchards

Best breakfast
Café Marco of Marco Polo Davao Hotel for the longest buffet in town

Best night out
Start at Eagles’ at Marco Polo then go to Bak-Bak at K1 compound, then Urban Club at Autoshop Compound, Saluti and Some Place Else at Habana Compound

Must-eats
Taste our fresh native durian and tuna!

Must-buys
Crates of juicy pomelos, vacuum packs of fresh durian meat and frozen tuna

Insider’s tip
Hang out in areas that offer several places of interest

Cotabato

area code (64)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Estosan Garden Hotel is one of the city’s premier accommodations. Gov Guttierez Street, Cotabato City, tel: (64) 421 6777 Hotel Filipino is a 68-room budget inn. Along Gen S K Pendatum Avenue, tel: (64) 421 2307

WHERE TO SHOP

In Barter Trade Center, near Estosan Hotel, you can get beautiful locallywoven malongs (tube skirts)
Don’t forget to pop by South Seas Mall for anything from liquor to local crafts, www.southseasmall.com

WHERE TO EAT

Order good and reasonably priced Chinese food at either Peach Garden or Mardoney’s. Don Rufi no Alonzo Street Le Sourelle for pasta and desserts. Along Quezon Avenue

WHAT TO SEE

The Kutawato Caves, which is a network of caves found at the foot of Tantawan or PC Hill, are the only caves
in the country found right smack in the city, behind the old capitol building. Depending on which cave you enter
(Bagua, Caverna Español, Kweba ni Satur or Provincial Capitol Cave), you’ll see rock formations, a pond of salty spring water and cunning tunnels

Best breakfast
Mardoney’s yummy fried rice

Best night out
Spending leisure time with friends singing at Café Florencio videoke bar

Must-eats
Batchoy at William’s Lapaz Batchoy, bulalo (bone marrow) at Kusina Almonte and pastil (rice with shredded chicken or fi sh toppings wrapped in banana leaves)

Must-buys
Malongs (worn by men and women)

Insider’s tip
Don’t leave the city without visiting our caves, located right in the heart of the city

Ozamiz

area code (88)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Check out Royal Garden Hotel on Burgos Street and Plaza Beatris Hotel, or the smaller lodgings such as Minerva Tourist Inn on Washington Street

WHERE TO SHOP

Head to Ozamis public market for lato (seaweed greens) and fresh baby ginger

WHERE TO EAT

RS Ihaw-Ihaw is know for their barbecued treats. Gomez Street, Juan Luna, Ozamis City

WHAT TO SEE

Visit the Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Cathedral, and the German pipe organ, which is the second largest in the country

See the bells of Bukagan Hill, a lookout point that’s 92m above sea level. Or check out Fort Santiago, a 225-year-old stone fort on Panguil Bay

Best breakfast
Native delicacies such as tocino, tapa and longganisa freshly served at Mang Inasal on Valconcha Street

Best night out
Cotta and Plaza along the seashore or pier is windy and cozy at night

Must-eats
Sizzling bulalo and picy sizzling gambas at Dwino’s Grill, Washington Street

Must-buys
Kakanin – native delicacies that are usually rice-based – such as torta, budbud, and bibingka from Dwino’s Grill

Insider’s tip
Get pretty at Quality Skin Care and Spa along Washington Street

Surigao

area code (86)

WHERE TO SLEEP

The Tavern Hotel was established in 1946 as a restaurant providing overnight accommodations mostly to American GIs coming from the war. Since then, it has become a historical landmark and witness to the people’s triumphs and trials. Borromeo Street, Surigao City, tel: (86) 826 8566, email: hoteltavern@ yahoo.com

WHERE TO SHOP

Surigao is well-known for its very fresh seafood, which you can buy from the market

WHERE TO EAT

Hotels such as Philippine Gateway Hotel and Tavern Hotel have restaurants where you can enjoy unhurried meals. But for more casual dining, try Lotty Bar B-Q in the harbor area and Mario’s Garden Grille on Borromeo Street

WHAT TO SEE

Surigao is the jump-off point to Siargao Island, which is a surfer’s paradise. To get there, take a four-hour roro (cargo ship) to the island.

The Surigao Heritage Museum is a treasure trove of archaelogical relics that date back to when the Spaniards fi rst landed in Agusan and Surigao

Take a cruise on a boat through the mangrove forest called Daya-san

Best breakfast
Continental breakfast at Gateway Hotel or kinilaw (raw fi sh soaked in vinegar) at Mama Aida’s on Borromeo street

Best night out
Having a late night meal at The Tavern Hotel on the boulevard

Must-eats
Chicken barbeque from street stalls at the Pier and halo-halo at Gateway Hotel

Must-buys
Sayongsong (rice-based delicacy)

Insider’s tip
Mama Aida’s seafood dishes are the best or visit the market to fi nd fi sh, shells, and other delicacies

Dipolog

area code (65)

WHERE TO SLEEP

West End Court for quiet, homey and very affordable accommodations. 268 Echavez Street, Dipolog City, tel: (65) 212 5300

WHERE TO SHOP

Art lovers can drop by Goodtimes Café – an art gallery-cum-restaurant within a small private park – for paintings, sculptures, papier mache masks, other collectibles, and cups of really good coffee. Corner of Lopez Jaena and P. Garcia Streets, Biasong, Dipolog City

WHERE TO EAT

Hotel dining at Seven Treasures in Top Plaza Hotel for Asian cuisine. Echavez Street corner Quezon Avenue

Have the bibingkitas (fl at rice cakes) at Kendoughmagic Kaffei. Be sure to try Big Joe’s Cafe for lunch and enjoy binagoongang baboy (pork stewed in shrimp paste). General Luna Street

WHAT TO SEE

Go deep-sea fi shing or dolphin watching as there are many beaches near the city. Work up a sweat and climb up 4004 steps to reach Linabo Peak, where you’ll get a magnifi cent view of the twin cities of Dipolog and Dapitan. You can also visit the Subanen village and trek through Cogon Eco-Tourism Park’s 40-hectare natural forest. Or swim at Sungkilaw Falls

Best breakfast
Try the sikwate’t budbod (chocolate drink with sticky rice) in Bon’s Café

Best night out
Go bar hopping at Fat Cat, Seabreeze Resto Bar, 55th Ave and Cool J

Must-eats
Taste our special su-tu-kil (sugba for inihaw, tula for tinola and kilaw for kilawin)

Must-buys
Our famous Spanish sardines

Insider’s tip
Go for the outdoor activity Tyrollean Traverse, which is part of the city’s Eco- Adventure Tour Package.

General Santos

area code (83)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Sydney Hote offers accommodations at reasonable rates, and is just a few minutes from the airport and General Santos’s shopping and business districts. Pioneer corner Pendaton Avenue, General Santos, tel: (83) 301 9140, email: info@safi hotels.com

WHERE TO SHOP

At KCC Mall, get souvenir shirts, local handicrafts, factory surplus items, and more. Also check out Metacrafts for personalized printing on pendants. Jose Catolico Avenue, Lagao, General Santos City

WHAT TO SEE

The spectacular view of Sarangani Bay, the cityscape, and mountain ranges from the Sarangani Highlands, where you can also enjoy Filipino comfort food at the restaurant or simply take a stroll around its lush garden

Best breakfast
Try the Cookie Factory forthe occasional eat-all-you-can spread.

Best night out
Go to the East Asia Royale Hotel grounds, where they sometimes hold street parties or foam parties with live bands

Must-eats
Try tuna burger patties, lumpia, chorizo, and tuna chicharon (pork rind)

Must-buys
Our fresh tuna belly, sashimi, durian candies and asparagus

Insider’s tip
Visit our beaches, such as the white sands of Glan ngani

Zamboanga

area code (62)

WHERE TO SLEEP

Grand Astoria Hotel has spacious rooms and a very convenient location. Major Jalbon Street, Zamboanga City, tel: (62) 991 2510

WHERE TO SHOP

Pop into the mid-sized shopping center Southway Square, which houses a supermarket, a department store,
popular fast food chains and salons. Along Gov Lim Avenue

WHERE TO EAT

Mano-Mano na Greenfi eld Restaurant for seafood and other Chavacano food. 761 Gov. Ramos Avenue, Zamboanga, tel: (62) 992 4717

Hai San Seafood Market and Restaurant for sumptuous seafood prepared in the traditional Chinese way or however you want it cooked – as adobo, grilled, kilawin and more. 60 San Jose Road, Zamboanga City, tel: (62) 991 5506

WHAT TO SEE

The Great and Little Sta Cruz islands for its unique pinkish sand. Beyond the beautiful, almost deserted beach of the Great island, there’s a mangrove, a small Badjao village and a burial ground. Within Little island is a military installation. Coordinate trips with the Philippine Tourist Authority in front of Lantaka Hotel

Best breakfast
Lantaka Hotel By The Sea. Savor their pastries, smell the brewed coffee and enjoy the ambience

Best night out
If you love to sing, go to Park 88 or AlejandrasMust-eats
Muslim delicacies like pastil

Must-buys
Seafood and marine products and barter goods like Rocca and Apollo wafer sticks
Insider’s tip
Learn some Chavacano, such as Quetal (how are you?) and Hola! (hello!)

Miss Universe 2010 Result

2010-08-12T03:11:00.000-07:00

Watch Miss Universe Live Online Streaming for Free

Miss Universe 2010, the 59th edition of the pageant, will be held at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. on August 23, 2010.It will be hosted by Bret Michaels and Natalie Morales.Stefanía Fernández from Venezuela, will crown her successor at the end of this event.

Dinagyang 2011 Schedule of Events

2010-07-14T18:08:00.000-07:00

October 14, 2010, Friday
2:00 P.M. LOCAL LAUNCH Iloilo Dinagyang Festival 2011 Freedom Grandstand

December 16, 2010, Friday
2:00 P.M. PAMUKAW Assembly Area: Promenade passing Iznart, J.M. Basa to Freedom Grandstand

January 4, 2011, Tuesday
2:00 P.M. Model Ati Dinagyang Warrior 2011 Presentation

January 7, 2011, Friday
2:00 P.M. Model Ati Dinagyang Warrior 2011 Talent Competition

January 9, 2011, Sunday
1:00 P.M. Model Ati Dinagyang Warrior 2011 Finals

January 14, 2011, Friday
2:30 P.M. Mass for Opening Salvo of Tribe Dancers San Jose Parish Church
3:00 PM OPENING SALVO Judging Area

January 14-16, 2010
Iloilo Dinagyang Golf Competition 2011 Sta. Barbara Golf Club

January 15, 2011, Saturday
7:00:00 AM SQUEAK Parade Route

January 16-23, 2011
Dinagyang Photo Exhibit

January 16, 2011, Sunday
10:00AM – 3:00 PM DRESSING UP DAGOY

January 19-23, 2011
2:00 P.M.-12 MN Iloilo Hotel Resort & Restaurant Association (IHRRA) Food Festival Delgado St., Iloilo City

January 21, 2011, Friday
8:00:00 AM TAMBOR TRUMPA MARTSA MUSIKA Freedom Grandstand
7:00 PM LUCES IN THE SKY Part I

January 22, 2011, Saturday
7:00:00 AM Mass for Kasadyahan San Jose Parish Church
8:00 A.M. 2011 KASADYAHAN Competition Freedom Grandstand and other stages
2:00PM SPONSORS MARDI GRAS Judging Area #4 to Freedom Grandstand
7:00 PM LUCES IN THE SKY Part II
7:00 PM Religious Sad-sad to Sr. Sto. Niño San Jose Parish Church

January 23, 2010, Sunday
6:30 A.M. Concelebrated high mass for devotees, Tribes, Gov’t. Officials, LOMAS in attendance San Jose Parish Church
8:00 A.M. 2011 Dinagyang Ati CONTEST Freedom Grandstand and other stages
7:00 P.M. Awarding Ceremonies Freedom Grandstand

January 24, 2011, Monday
5:30 P.M. Thanksgiving Mass with all members of 2010 Iloilo Dinagyang Festival Working Committees

2010 US Tennis Open

2010-07-14T02:42:00.000-07:00

Watch 2010 US Tennis Open Free Live Stream

August 30 - September 12 in Queens, New York
The 2010 US Open will be a tennis tournament played on outdoor hard courts, held from August 30 to September 12, 2010 in the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center at Flushing Meadows, New York City, New York, United States.

The 2010 US Open is the last major tennis betting event of the year. With Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams both in formidable form, both of these players are likely to attract significant support in the 2010 US Open betting markets.

The American fans are boisterous and good-fun, especially if a homegrown player such as Andy Roddick or a Williams sister is on court. Food is also something that the US Open does exceedingly well, from a host of exclusive restaurants and bars to the more straight-forward food village that has most types of food, no matter what you’re hankering for. Opt for exclusivity and you never know who you’re going to bump into, with a plethora of celebrities also popping up annually.