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Del Carmen from 2G to 3G

2012-02-26T22:20:00.000+08:00

The strong partnership between SMART Communications and the Municipality of Del Carmen has resulted into the upgrading of the mobile technology in Del Carmen from 2G to 3G with Smart Canopy. This will increase the stability of the signal and access to internet connectivity benefiting the students, teachers, business community and government service delivery. New Service is targetted to start on February 29, 2012. Mabuhay ang Del Carmen! Mabuhay ang SMART!

Source: Municipality of Del Carmen

Government Assistance Benefits Island Towns

2012-02-26T13:34:00.001+08:00

26/02/2012 - DAPA, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines – At least 16 organizations in various communities of the three towns on this “paradise island” received some P2.9 million assistance from the government’s Self-Employment Assistance-Kaunlaran (SEA-K) program.

The cash assistance was received by the 16 organization-beneficiaries in the towns of Dapa, Del Carmen, and Pilar.

The SEA-K aid was personally handed over by the Caraga Livelihood Unit of the Region-13 office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-13) Thursday.

DSWD-13 Information Officer Leah T. Quintana said the 16 organizations are composed of some 325 members that benefited from the SEA-K – a national government effort to alleviate poverty.

Meanwhile, Roy Serdeña, of the DSWD-Caraga Livelihood Unit, also said that the beneficiaries will use the financial aid in venturing to other livelihood opportunities.

SEA-K aims to provide the poor and disadvantaged sector of society with timely access to credit and development opportunities.

This initiative was realized during the previous administration and is continuously implemented by the present administration.

In another development, to supply the demand, the City Agriculturist’s Office in Butuan City has dispersed hundreds of tilapia fingerlings to various fishpond operators and fisherfolk.

City Agriculturist Bert Boca said around 500 tilapia fingerlings had been distributed to fishpond operators and fisherfolk in line with the aquaculture project implemented by the city government.

He said the tilapia business is increasing in the city and its neighboring areas in the Caraga Region, prompting the city government to provide alternative livelihood opportunities.

It was learned that event the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is assisting the fisherfolk in Butuan City in an effort to increase their fish production.

The said activity will be continued this year, as it was observed that the conduct of the program was made successful.

According to BFAR, tilapia is the second most important fish that is cultured in the Philippines, next to milkfish.

In 2006, of the total fisheries production – some 4,408,472 metric tons, tilapia contributed 202,040.56 metric tons or 22 percent.

The continuous study on the development of tilapia species and the use of a number of various culture technologies contributed to this steady increase of the fish production in Northeastern Mindanao, BFAR added. (Manila Bulletin)

5th Siargao International Game Fishing Tournament

2012-01-24T22:16:00.004+08:00

The municipality of Pilar in Siargao Island will once again host the first and biggest international game fishing tournament from April 26 to 30, 2012. The town is expecting more than eighty anglers from the different countries in the world such as Japan, Singapore, Russia, United States, Germany, Switzerland and China to join the tournament. For more information or details of this event, please email us at zenpallugna@yahoo.com.ph or visit our website www.siargaogamefishing.com or www.travelwithzen.blogspot.com.

Siargao’s Cloud 9 ranks top 8 of the world’s 50 best surf spots

2012-01-23T06:01:00.003+08:00

Siargao Island's Cloud 9 surf break ranks top 8
in CNNGo's World's 50 Best Surf Spots.
(Photo by: Aye Navarro)

CNNGo, an ultimate travel website of CNN International (www.cnngo.com), recently featured Siargao Island’s Cloud 9 as top eight (8) of the world’s 50 best surf spots. As a Southeast Asian country, Philippines or Siargao Island in particular, ranked second to Indonesia’s Uluwatu and Kuta surf breaks as it shared top 3 spot.

World’s 10 Best Surf Spots (Source: CNNGo, 2012 )

Pipeline, Oahu, Hawaii, United States (The daddy of all waves)
Supertubes, Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa
Uluwatu and Kuta, Bali, Indonesia
Superbanks, Gold Coast, Australia
Mavericks, California, United States
Lima, Peru
Hossegor, France
Cloud Nine, Siargao Island, Philippines
Sultans, North Male, Maldives
Honolua Bay, Hawaii, United States

With this pronouncement of CNNGo, Siargao is once again creating a “buzz” among the surfers and surfing enthusiasts to discover and explore Cloud 9, aptly described by CNNGo --- “This dramatic and powerful reef break, which crashes onto shallow razor sharp coral, offers right and left death rides to those who dare. Those who do will experience a slice of paradise, or magic mushroom-like hallucinations, as the wave wraps over them like a Cornish pasty shaped cocoon of water. Don’t slip, or your skin and bones will be ripped to shreds by the ocean bed.”

However, whether you are a beginner or a pro surfer, you are all welcome to “experience a slice of paradise” in Siargao Island. Aside from world-class waves, Siargao Island --- a tropical paradise of Surigao del Norte --- offers beautiful white-sand beaches and islets, naturally-carved tide pools, mangrove forests, coves, caves, and schools of non-stingy jellyfish. The beautiful smiles, the warmth and hospitality of the islanders, inadvertently made it a must see destination.

You will also enjoy the different surf spots in the island any time of the year. The local surfers are very much willing to be your surf guides or surf instructors.

Cloud 9 is the surf break in Siargao Island named after the local no-melt chocolate bars. It was discovered by John Callahan, a famous American surf photographer and writer. The photographs and articles he wrote about his surf expedition to Siargao Island in 1992 made Cloud 9 a famous surfing haven in the Philippines. It is recognized as one of the surfers dream breaks in the Pacific Region (Nelson & Taylor, 2006) and considered as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines.

Before the advent of sports tourism, the people of Siargao Island were largely a community subsistent on fishing and farming with the island having inadequate infrastructure facilities and poor road conditions.

With the growing popularity of Siargao Island as a surfing destination, the municipality of General Luna and the entire Siargao Island caught the attention of the national government and local and foreign investors. Tourism-related investments projects and project support started pouring in, in the form of road concreting, airport expansion, seaport construction, and water supply and tourism facilities or resorts construction. It is also expected that with the “buzz” created by CNNGo, Siargao Island will have an increased visitor arrivals and vibrant local economy.

Anyone interested to surf at Cloud 9 or spend your holiday in the Island, just send an email to Philippine Surfing Federation, zenpallugna@yahoo.com.ph (e-mail) or call us at +63 9296721508 (mobile).

Gov’t allots P429.5M for Siargao Island road projects in 2012

2011-12-24T08:37:00.000+08:00

Thursday, December 24, 2011 - The Philippine government is allocating P429.5 million for the road improvement projects in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte to be undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in 2012.

DPWH-Siargao District Engr. Salvador E. Montil, Jr. said the projects under the 2012 DPWH Infrastracture Program include the concreting of roads along Dapa-General Luna road, Junction Del Carmen-Sta. Monica-San Isidro road, Junction Cancohoy-Pilar road, Junction Osmeña-Pilar road, Socorro-Nueva Estrella-Pamosaingan road and Dapa-Union-General Luna road.

“These projects are part of the government’s plan to completely pave the Siargao circumferential road especially roads that are declared as tourism roads,” said Montil.

“The improvement of the road network will surely boost the tourism development in the island,” Montil added.

Out of the P429.5 million allocation, P117.4 million will fund the concreting of Dapa-Union-General Luna road which leads to prime beaches and resorts in the island.

The projects are made possible through the efforts of Surigao del Norte 1st District Rep. Francisco T. Matugas to provide necessary infrastructure facilities in order to spur economic activities in the surfing and game fishing capital of the country. (DPWH Siargao District/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=69178

Help for Cagayan de Oro flood victims

2011-12-22T07:47:00.000+08:00

REPOSTED Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan Relief Operations
(http://www.xu.edu.ph/index.php/other-news/642-bagyong-sendong-relief-operations-in-xavier-university)

Your DONATIONS will make a difference!

My hometown, Cagayan de Oro was struck by Typhoon Sendong last December 17, 2011. As typhoon "Sendong" ravaged the city, it left thousands of families homeless and some of their family members died or are still missing. Many villages were swept away by the flash floods that hit the city between 12:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. while everyone was asleep.

I am appealing to both Filipinos and non-Filipinos all over the globe to unite in helping our "Kababayans" who need our help. They are asking for donations in:

CASH

FOOD (noodles, canned goods, etc.)

BOTTLED WATER and

CLEAN CLOTHES.

You can send your donations through Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan's relief operations.

Photo by: Atoy Martinez

REPOSTED Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan Relief Operations (http://www.xu.edu.ph/index.php/other-news/642-bagyong-sendong-relief-operations-in-xavier-university) --- The University is accepting donations at the Helpdesk set up at the University's front gate or at the Relief Center at the Satellite Canteen near the College of Agriculture building (beside the gymnasium). Personnel and student volunteers are being deployed to buy, pack and deliver relief goods all over the City, under the direction of the University Chaplain.

Fr. Eric Garcia Velandria S.J.
Coordinator of Sendong Operation,
KKP Office, Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan, Corrales Ave.
9000 Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines.

Cash donations can be deposited at this account:

Account Name: Xavier University
Account Number: 9331-0133-63

Xavier University Relief Center is conducting a relief operation for families affected by Bagyong Sendong.They are asking for donations in

CASH
FOOD (noodles, canned goods, etc.)
BOTTLED WATER and
CLEAN CLOTHES.

You can drop them off at the
Xavier University KKP-SIO.
Volunteers also needed @DSWD (Masterson Rd, Upper Carmen).
Call 09066150095 or 858-8892. Let's help, please.

Other Useful Information:

SMART LIBRENG TAWAG, INTERNET and CELLPHONE CHARGING sa PHILCOM OFFICE, MAX SUNIEL ST. CARMEN (RIGHT BESIDE ACSAT GYM) for those who would like to contact their loved ones who have been affected by the recent FLASHFLOODS. Please tell your friends, family and neighbors!!!! Please repost. - T. Tamayo.

For those who live in Manila, you can help us

For CASH/ CHEQUE donations...(through Simbahang Lingkod)

Direct deposits may be made online from any BPI branches, pay to:
SIMBAHANG LINGKOD NG BAYAN (Account Name/Payee)
Bank of the Philippine Islands (Loyola-Katipunan Branch)
BPI Peso Checking Account Number: 3081-1111-61
BPI Dollar Savings Account Number: 3084-0420-12

Photo by: Atoy Martinez

Australia's Cooper Chapman claims Billabong Pro Junior Asia title

2011-12-18T23:55:00.013+08:00

The inaugural Billabong Pro Junior Asia Champion Cooper Chapman celebrates his victory with his friends right after his action packed Finals over an Indonesian surfer Oney Anwar. (Photo by Dennis Ohashi)

Cooper Chapman, a young professional surfer from Australia, took out the inaugural Billabong Pro Junior Asia title in an action packed Finals over an Indonesian surfer Oney Anwar last September 27, 2011 at "Cloud 8", a new spot identified by the technical team of Association of Surfing Professionals or ASP. With a new swell coming in from a different direction, the competition at Cloud 9 was forced to move down the reef to a spot referred to as Cloud 8.

The Billabong Pro Junior Asia Second Placer Oney Anwar of Indonesia poses with (L-R) Billabong Marketing Director Peter Thew, Surigao del Norte Governor Sol Matugas, and Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority General Manager Mark Lapid. (Photo by Loanne Guardo Huelma)

(L-R) The Father of Philippine Surfing, Mayor Jaime P. Rusillon proudly presents the winners of the inaugural Billabong Pro Junior Asia, namely: Cooper Chapman (Champion-Australia) and One Anwar (First Runner-Up - Indonesia). The event was held at Cloud 9 from September 21 to 28, 2011. (Photo by Aye Navarro)

Third Placer Philmar Alipayo was the lone Filipino surfer who became one of the four finalists ofthe Billabong Pro Junior Asia. (Photo by Loanne Guardo Huelma)

Cloud 9 has finally carved its name in the world's surfing map as 64 best junior surfers from Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Philippines, United States of America and Indonesia joined in this year's Billabong's pro junior event.

According to ASP Australia General Manager Dane Jordan, this was a landmark event for the region since this was the first time that ASP Australasia and Japan jointly sanctioned a professional surfing event in an iconic break like Cloud 9.

The Billabong Pro Junior Asia presented by Sony Ericson, held last September 21 to 28, 2011, was in partnership with the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte, Local Government Unit of General Luna, Department of Tourism, Tourism Infrastruction and Enterprise Zone Authority, Philippine Surfing Federation, and ASP Austrailasia. Other sponsors include Air Asia, Nixon, and Von Zipper, San Miguel Corporations and Smart Communications.

Tourism Undersecretary Maria Victoria Jasmin (Fushia Pink Blouse) and Surigao del Norte Governor Sol Matugas lead the ceremonial opening of the Billabong Pro Junior Asia together with General Luna Mayor Jaime Rusillon, Surigao del Norte Congressman Francisco Matugas, Billabong Philippines President Freddie Gonzales, Provincial Tourism Officer Ivonnie Beltran-Dumadag, Philippine Surfing Federation Secretary General Zeny Pallugna and other mayors and board members of the of Surigao del Norte.

Cloud 9's judging tower.

Landslide kills 5 as 'Sendong' passes Northeastern Mindanao

2011-12-18T23:52:00.001+08:00

12/17/2011 - Five persons died in a landslide at gold-rush Barangay Mt. Diwata, in Monkayo, Compostela Valley as tropical storm Sendong lashes through Northeastern Mindanao provinces which were placed at public storm signal number two Friday.

The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (MDRRMC) of Monkayo said Mt. Diwata Brgy. Capt. Rodolfo Boyles revealed that the landslide occurred Friday at 4:30 p.m., affecting five puroks.

Identified casualties were Julito Lumacto,28 years of age; Rosita dela Pena, 57; Ashlia Tuan, 14; Nasser Tuan, 6; and Rakema Tuan, 4 while the seven other individuals were physically injured. The report, however, failed to give further details about the physical injuries.

At least 83 families were affected with the landslide totally damaging six houses and partially damaged seven other houses.

Meanwhile, flash floods also occurred in nine other barangays of Monkayo including its Poblacion, specifically in Union, Salvacion, Pasian, Baylo, Naboc,UpperUlip, San Jose and Rizal.

Monkayo MDRRMC reports as of 11:45 today showed that more than 100 families were affected in Poblacion areas where some houses were submerged in floodwaters. Two others were partially damaged while five were washed out.

Electricity went out at the height of the heavy rains in barangays Upper Ulip and Rizal as electric posts got damaged and wires were cut off.

Some households were submerged in Barangay Salvacion. Affected houses in Pasian, Baylo, Upper and Rizal were either partially damaged or washed out due to strong current of floodwaters.

Aside from Monkayo, flashflood also occurred in Nabunturan, Mawab and Compostela towns of Compostela Valley, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Josephine Frasco said. She could not off-hand give details as she waited for reports from MDRRMCs.

Meanwhile, Davao del Norte Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Div. chief Sonio Sanchez in a text message revealed that parts of barangays Sagayen and Napungas of Asuncion town were inundated when Saug River overflowed due to heavy rains.

No casualties were monitored but initial reports revealed that 514 families were affected in Napungas.

Sonio had yet to get reports on affected families in Sagayen as of presstime, though initial reports bared five puroks in the barangay were flooded.

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported Tropical Storm Sendong to have slowed down as of 5 a.m. on Dec.16 but it continued to threaten Northeastern Mindanao and Eastern Visayas.

Listed Friday under storm signal 2 were Surigao del Norte including Siargao Island, Surigao del Sur and Dinagat Province, Agusan Provinces, Misamis Oriental, Camiguin, Bukidnon, Compostela Valley, Davao Oriental and Davao del Norte. (PIA-11/jeane duron-abangan)

source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=68576

Tahitian surfer invades Cloud 9

2011-12-18T22:28:00.018+08:00

Enrique Ariitu's foreign friends cheerfully congratulated him after winning the
final rounds of the 17th Siargao International Surfing Cup last October 2, 2011.
(Photo by: Loanne Guardo Huelma)

A Tahitian surfer Enrique Ariitu showed both Filipino and foreign surfers including the spectators how Tahitians tube ride would be like and defeated the local surfer, Edito "Piso" Alcala in the final rounds of the 17^th Siargao International Surfing Cup. This sporting event, presented by Smart Communications, was held at Cloud 9 in General Luna, Siargao Island from September 29 to October 3, 2011.

The winning smile of a young Tahitian surfer: Enrique Ariitu
grabbed the 17th Siargao International Surfing Cup title.(Photo by: Loanne Guardo Huelma)

Ariitu who travelled for more than twenty hours from Tahiti (an island located in the South Pacific otherwise known as French Polynesia) to the Philippines was the first Tahitian surfer who invaded Cloud 9. He said that he loves the warmth and hospitality of the Filipinos and promises to be back in Siargao next year.

The tournament was attended by forty surfers from

Australia

Indonesia

, Tahiti,

Japan

United States of America

, and

Philippines

. Oscar Scanes (

Australia

) and Martin Tanegra (

Philippines

) were in the equal third while Carlito Nogalo (

Philippines

), Todd Rosswell (USA), Arkipo Figuron (

Philippines

), and John Mark “Marama” Tokong (

Philippines

) were in the equal fifth. All the winners got a total prize-money of US$10,000 plus trophies. Alcala who was in the second place was chosen as the Best Filipino Surfer.

The winners of the Smart 17th Siargao International Surfing Cup pose with the government officials (L-R, standing) General Luna Mayor Jaime Rusillon, Surigao del Norte Congressman Francisco Matugas, Surigao del Norte Governor Sol Matugas, Department of Budget Secretary Butch Abad (the Guest of Honor), and Philippine Surfing Federation Secretary General Zeny Pallugna.

The 17^th Siargao International Surfing Cup by Smart Communications was the

Philippines

’ longest-running surfing competition making the country popular among the world’s surfing arena and giving more opportunities to other surfing destinations in the country to be discovered or developed.

The event would not be made possible without the support from the Local Government of General Luna, Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte, House of Representatives for the First District of Surigao del Norte, Department of Tourism, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, Philippine Surfing Federation and Smart Communications, Inc. Other minor sponsors include San Miguel Corporation, Stoked, Inc., Fluidsurf, Coca-Cola Bottlers' Company and Nature Spring.

(L-R) The Champion Enrique Ariitu (Tahiti) poses with Oscar canes (

Australia

) and Todd Rosswell (USA) at the awarding ceremony of the 17th SIargao International Surfing Cup.
(Photo by Loanne Guardo Huelma)

Second Placer Edito "Piso" Alcala receives his Best Filipino Surfer award from Surigao del Norte Congressman Francisco T. Matugas during the awarding ceremony of the 17th Siargao International Surfing Cup. (Photo by: Loanna Guardo Huelma)

BFAR-Caraga to turnover patrol boat to Del Carmen, Siargao Island

2011-12-18T18:06:00.001+08:00

12/15/11 - The Regional Office of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Caraga is set to turnover a patrol boat to the municipality of Del Carmen, Siargao Island that will help in the conservation, protection and rehabilitation of the environment and natural resources.

During the recent interview with a local broadcaster here, BFAR-Caraga Regional Director Nerio Casil said illegal fishing is very rampant in the coastal areas of Siargao Island, which prompted them to take necessary action.

Dir. Casil also said that with the said motor vessel, illegal fishing will be minimized as they are determined to run after those fishermen who are practicing dynamite fishing and other illegal fishing activities.

Casil said illegal fishing activities tend to happen when perpetrators know that the arm of the law cannot reach them.

However, the BFAR chief of the region emphasized that authorities are determined to go after these violators to end illegal fishing no matter how far they are in the main land of Surigao City and in the region. He also called on the townspeople and Philippine National Police (PNP) for support in this cause to protect the environment and natural resources. (PIA-Caraga)

source: http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=68120

Ryan Gosling in Siargao, Philippines?

2011-12-06T19:03:00.002+08:00

A rumor about Hollywood actor Ryan Gosling spotted surfing in Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte, Philippines is making the Twitter world abuzz right now. Even celebrities are tweeting about it.

"Just got a txt "Omgomgomgomgomg!!! Ryan Gosling is surfing in Siargao Island!"-800km southeast of Surigao del Norte. Is this truth or rumor?," beauty queen Ruffa Gutierrez posted.

"@iloveruffag I think I just died. Ryan Gosling is in Siargao Island? I'm booking a flight right now." "Eat Bulaga" host Isabelle Daza tweeted.

"Is it true? Ryan Gosling is here in the Philippines, surfing in Siargao?? #trueorfalse help!!!" Kapuso star Maxene Magalona said.

However, there has been no one who confirmed the report with a visual proof as of this writing.

"Ryan Gosling" has climbed to the second spot on the list of the most talked-about topics in the microblogging site at the moment,

Canadian actor and singer Ryan Gosling is best known for his role in the 2004 romantic film "The Notebook" which earned him four Teen Choice Awards and a MTV Movie Awards recognition. His other movies are "Half Nelson", "Drive", "Blue Valetine", "All Good Things" and many more.

(Source: http://noypistuff.blogspot.com/2011/12/ryan-gosling-in-siargao-philippines.html)

Who is Ryan Gosling?

Ryan Thomas Gosling (born November 12, 1980) is a Canadian actor and musician. He first came to public attention as a child star on the Disney Channel's Mickey Mouse Club (1993–95) and went on to appear in other family entertainment programmes including Are You Afraid of the Dark? (1995), Goosebumps (1996), Breaker High (1997–98) and Young Hercules (1998–99). His first serious role was as a fanatic Neo-Nazi in The Believer (2001), and he then built a reputation for playing misfits in independent films such as Murder by Numbers (2002), The Slaughter Rule (2002), The United States of Leland (2003) and Stay (2005).

He came to the attention of a wider audience in 2004 with a leading role in the romantic drama The Notebook, for which he won four Teen Choice Awards and an MTV Movie Award. His performance as a drug-addicted junior high school teacher in Half Nelson (2006) was nominated for an Academy Award and his appearance as a socially inept loner in Lars and the Real Girl (2007) was nominated for a Golden Globe Award. In 2007, he starred in courtroom thriller Fracture.

After a three-year acting hiatus, he starred in both Blue Valentine and All Good Things in 2010. The former performance as a frazzled husband earned him a second Golden Globe nomination. 2011 proved to be a landmark year for the actor as he appeared in three mainstream films: the romantic comedy Crazy, Stupid, Love, the thriller Drive and the political drama The Ides of March. He is due to appear in five upcoming films: the bank heist film The Place Beyond the Pines, the period crime feature The Gangster Squad, the revenge drama Only God Forgives, Terrence Malick's Lawless and a remake of the sci-fi film Logan's Run.

His band, Dead Man's Bones, released their self-titled debut album and toured North America in 2009. He is co-owner of Tagine, a Moroccan restaurant in Beverly Hills, California. He has had relationships with actors Sandra Bullock (2002–03) and Rachel McAdams (2005–08) and lives in New York City.

(Source: Wikipedia)

Official Results of the 13th Siargao National Surfing Cup

2011-12-05T19:49:00.000+08:00

Official Results of the 13th Siargao National Surfing Cup

Cloud 9, General Luna, Siargao Island, Philippines

September 17 - 20, 2011

How To Really Enjoy Your Vacation: 7 Tips

2011-12-04T12:21:00.000+08:00

Vacations may be fun in the moment, but they don't have much lingering stress-reducing, or happiness-raising benefits, according to a study from the Netherlands, published the Journal Applied Research in Quality of Life.

According to the study, after the vacation, happiness quickly drops back to baseline levels for most people. Vacationers were no happier than those who hadn't taken off (as an aside, the greatest boost in happiness came from anticipating and planning the vacation). Post-vacation happiness was affected by how much stress or relaxation a traveler experienced on their vacation. If vacationers described their trip as neutral or stressful, there was no post-trip happiness benefit.

Vacations can reduce stress while you're away, and may improve your life over the long term if you allow yourself to relax. "Many people have epiphanies when they travel because they can view their life back home from a detached, outsider's view and give you a clearer sense of who you are and how you really want to live your life," says Bryan Robinson, Ph.D., author of Chained to the Desk: A Guidebook for Workaholics, their Partners and Children and the Clinicians Who Treat Them.

So how do you take a vacation, de-stress, and have the effects linger more than a day or two?

Make sure it's relaxing: The only vacationers in the Netherlands study who saw a boost in happiness were those who reported feeling "very relaxed" on their vacation. If you're travelling with young kids (though it may be better not to), consider enrolling them in half-day camps or arranging for a babysitter in the evenings so you have time to relax.
Create a vacation that fits your personal style. Think about what you love to do, not what you should do. Some people love thrill-seeking vacations, others love exploring and some love just lounging on the beach. If the vacation doesn't fit, it may increase, not lower stress.
Balance activities. "Alternate your time between staying active and resting," says Robinson. Activity raises feel-good endorphins, while quieting your mind reduces levels of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.
Take several mini vacations. Since the study showed that people get a mood boost out of planning and anticipating vacations, having several trips throughout the year may raise your overall happiness quotient higher than if you just have one vacation and then there's nothing to look forward to until next year.
Take vacations during major holidays, such as the Fourth of July or in August, when many people are away and the workload is usually lighter, so you're less worried about work piling up while you're away.
Delegate work before you leave. Since completely disconnecting from the office might be more stressful for some people, allow yourself to check voice mail and email under strict time limits, say one hour a day.
Buffer your vacation. "Don't work right up until the moment you leave and head back to work right off the bat," says Robinson. "If possible, schedule an extra day off before you depart and another when you come back to dive back in slowly," he says.

source: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505125_162-48441331/how-to-really-enjoy-your-vacation-7-tips/

Biyahe Tayo : Wow Philippines Biyahe Tayo Video and Lyrics

2011-12-03T22:32:00.000+08:00

Artists: Lea Salonga, Sharon Cuneta, Freddie Aguilar, Rey Valera, Rico Puno, Joey Ayala, Apo Hiking Society, Ogie Alcasid, Janno Gibbs, Jolina Magdangal, April Boy Regino, Jessa Zaragoza, Paolo Santos, Nina and Rico Blanco of Rivermaya, John Lesaca, and Jong Cuenco

Biyahe Tayo Lyrics:

Ikaw ba’y nalulungkot
Naiinip, nababagot?
Ikaw ba’y napapagod
Araw gabi’y puro kayod?

Buhay mo ba’y walang saysay
Walang sigla, walang kulay?
Bawa’t araw ba’y pareho
Parang walang pagbabago?

Tara na, biyahe tayo
Kasama ang pamilya
Barkada at buong grupo
Para mag-enjoy nang todo.

Halika, biyahe tayo,
Nang ating makita
Ang ganda ng Pilipinas
Ang galing ng Pilipino.

Napasyal ka na ba
Sa Intramuros at Luneta
Palawan, Vigan at Batanes
Subic, Baguio at Rice Terraces?

Namasdan mo na ba
Ang mga vinta ng Zamboanga
Bulkang Taal, Bulkang Mayon
Beach ng Boracay at La Union?

Tara na, biyahe tayo
Mula Basco hanggang Jolo
Nang makilala ng husto
Ang ating kapwa-Pilipino.

Halika, biyahe tayo,
Nang ating makita
Ang ganda ng Pilipinas
Ang galing ng Pilipino.

From city to city,
Seven thousand and a hundred plus islas
Sa mahal kong Pilipinas
Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao ating puntahan.
Huwag maging dayuhan sa sariling bayan!

Nasubukan mo na bang
Mag-rapids sa Pagsanjan
Mag-diving sa Anilao
Mag-surfing sa Siargao?

Natikman mo na ba
Ang sisig ng Pampanga
Duriang Davao, Bangus Dagupan
Bicol Express at Lechong Balayan?

Tara na, biyahe tayo,
Nang makatulong kahit pano
Sa pag-unlad ng kabuhayan
Ng ating mga kababayan.

Halika, biyahe tayo,
Nang ating makita
Ang ganda ng Pilipinas
Ang galing ng Pilipino.

Nakisaya ka na ba
Sa Pahiyas at Masskara
Moriones at Ati-Atihan
Sinulog at Kadayawan?

Namiesta ka na ba
Sa PeÃ±afrancia sa Naga
Umakyat sa Antipolo
Nagsayaw sa Obando?

Tara na, biyahe tayo
Upang ating matamo
Ligaya at pagkakaibigan
Kaunlaran, kapayapaan.

Halika, biyahe tayo,
Nang ating makita
Ang ganda ng Pilipinas
Ang galing ng Pilipino.

Tara na, biyahe tayo
Upang ating matamo
Ligaya at pagkakaibigan
Kaunlaran, kapayapaan.

Halika, biyahe tayo
Nang ating makita
Ang ganda ng Pilipinas
Ang galing ng Pilipino.

Halika, biyahe tayo…
WOW Philippines…

Surigao Norte sees tourism growth

2011-12-03T01:24:00.001+08:00

12/03/2011 - Citing the growing tourism opportunities, and also the notable potentials of the agriculture sector of the province of Surigao del Norte, the national government has approved the amount of P450,476,000 for the implementation of more infrastructure projects, especially the construction of roads and other related programs to be implemented next year.

To boost the tourism and agriculture sectors, the allocation of the budget is primarily intended for the construction of roads that will connect the various tourism areas, thus generating additional employment opportunities, livelihood prospects, and increased tax revenues that will benefit the villages in the province.

Because of this government support, the local government unit (LGU) officials expressed their heartfelt gratitude to President Aquino for providing the much-needed support for the development and progress of the province.

“Additional employment and livelihood will directly benefit the villagers,” said Representative Francisco T. Matugas (1st District, Surigao del Norte).

He said the infrastructure projects that are set for implementation early next year include the Dapa-General Luna Road, Santa Monica-San Isidro Road, Socorro-Nueva Estrella Pamosaingan Road, Cancohoy-Pilar Road, Osmeña-Pilar Road, improvement/concreting of the Dapa-Union General Luna Road, improvement/concreting the Osmeña-Pilar Road, construction of lighthouses along the Del Carmen Channel, installation of lanterns and lighting fixtures at the lighthouse in Santa Monica, construction of the Montserrat Port in Dapa, the Malimono Port, and Gigaquit Road.

Aside from the allocated budget, a total of P115 million was recently approved for this year’s last quarter budget for the province of Surigao del Norte.

“The funding release for this year’s last quarter budget is for our tourism sites in the province, especially on the Paradise Island of Siargao,” added Matugas, who deeply expressed his gratitude to the President for his full support of the province’s eco-tourism industry.

He added that Siargao Island is the home of international game fishing and surfing competitions, and also a tourist hub due to its white powdery sand beaches, and other tourist attractions.

He also said that the budget released for the last quarter for Siargao Island and the province include the following – P40 million for the concreting of the Maasin to Pilar Road, P30 million for the concreting of the junction of the Osmeña to Pilar Road, P20 million – concreting of the Dapa to Union Road, P15 million – flood control project from Dapa to General Luna, P5 million for the farm-to-market road from Santa Paz to Poblacion in San Isidro, and P5 million for the farm-to-market road from Maasin to Katipunan in Pilar town.

Matugas had a round-table meeting Monday with Public Works and Highways Region-13 Director Danilo E. Versola in Butuan City for the implementation of the said projects.

Meanwhile, President Aquino also approved, over the weekend, the release of P19.5 million for the provincial road improvement projects and library hubs in the province.

The budget allocation was personally received by Surigao del Norte Governor Sol F. Matugas.

“This is really a big boost to our economy, and we express our thanks to President Aquino,” said the governor. (Manila Bulletin)

Boat capsizes off Siargao Island; 43 passengers rescued

2011-11-04T07:11:00.000+08:00

11/05/2011 - A total of 43 passengers, including 11 crew members of a passenger boat, were rescued off the coastal waters of San Benito town in Siargao Island after their vessel capsized due to strong leaking of water coming from the freeboard on Tuesday morning, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

PNP Police Community Relations Officer P/Insp. Elsa Montenegro said that around 4:30 a.m., Oct. 25, motorbanca “Maricris” left the port of Sta. Monica en route to Surigao City. Upon reaching at the seawater of the municipality of San Benito around 5 a.m., one crew noticed a volume of water in the lower part of the boat.

“Attempts have been made to pump the water out of the boat but it failed until the boat sank on the seawater,” said Montegro.

The ill-fated motor banca, owned and operated by Maria Rose Lim, was skippered by B/Capt. Jerry Lim.

A report from Phil. Coast Guard (PCG) Surigao del Norte Station further revealed that the motorbanca was loaded with 320 sacks of copra.

The boat slowly submerged at the sea water while all passengers including the crew abandoned the boat wearing life jackets. According to the PCG report, all passengers were rescued by motorbanca Kimnet-1 and were brought to the port of Sta. Monica.

“All passengers and crew are in good health condition,” the PCG report added. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Science high school to rise in Siargao

2011-10-19T18:46:00.000+08:00

10/19/2011 - GENERAL LUNA, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines – After years of waiting, a science high school will finally rise in this “paradise island” of Surigao del Norte.

The dream of parents, teachers and local officials came true when Budget Secretary Florencio Abad Jr. along with his wife Rep. Dina Abad, lead the groundbreaking ceremony for the General Luna Science High School Saturday.

Abad will be accompanied by Surigao del Norte Rep. Francisco T. Matugas (1st District), Gov. Sol F. Matugas and General Luna Mayor Peter Ruaya.

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released an initial P6.5 million for the General Luna Science High School.

The department also lined up and approved the construction of the P53-million provincial hospital in Barangay Sta. Cruz in Placer town, Surigao del Norte.

It was gathered that the construction of the provincial hospital in Placer is very vital since it will cater the medical needs of thousands of village communities along the southern part of the province.

By MIKE U. CRISMUNDO

Siargao world surfing competition begins

2011-09-17T18:32:00.000+08:00

9/17/11 - GENERAL LUNA, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines – A huge number of participants, tourists and guests from around the world began converging here last Friday for the start of the 2011 World Junior Surfing Competition.

While competitors officially started their action Saturday, a large number of tourists, both foreign and domestic, and other guests also enjoyed viewing the scenic beauty of this paradise island.

The world junior surfing completion will last up to Oct. 3 this year.

At least 31 surfers from Australia, 31 from Japan, 10 from the United States, Hawaii, Europe, Brazil, South America, Malaysia and Indonesia and eight from various areas in the Philippines participated in Saturday’s contest.

Department of Tourism Undersecretary Ma. Victoria Jasmin is witnessing the biggest world surfing competition here.

The international and national surfers will participate in three categories.

The 13th Siargao National Surfing Cup, to be participated by surfers from all regions in the country, also started Saturday and will run until Sept. 19. This is the pre-qualifying rounds for all Filipino surfers to identify the official representative of the country to the Cloud 9 Billabong Pro Junior Asia and the SMART 17th Siargao International Surfing Cup.

Among the participants expected to top in the finals are surfers from Baler, Aurora, Samar, La Union, and other parts of the country.

The top 12 surfers will be chosen to become the country’s representative to the 17th Siargao International Surfing Cup.

A total of R200,000 is at stake for those who will emerged champions both in the open and junior categories while top Filipino surfers ages 20 and below will officially represent the country in the Billabong Pro Asia championships.

The Billabong Pro Junior Asia Surfing Championships, scheduled on Sept. 20 to 28, will be the first ASP event to run in the Philippines and will be held at the world-class break Cloud 9. ASP Australia General Manager Dane Jordan is excited to make this a landmark event for the region, adding that the ASP and the surfers will show the world what Cloud 9 and the Philippines have to offer.

The Billabong Pro Junior Asia is presented by Sony Ericsson with supporting sponsors Air Asia, Nixon, and Von Zipper. The event is endorsed by the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte and DoT. This year’s champion will receive $25,000. (Manila Bulletin)

Siargao Events 2011

2011-09-13T09:52:00.000+08:00

SIARGAO ISLAND EVENT 2011

»13th Siargao National Surfing Cup from Sept. 17-20 at Cloud 9 in General Luna

»Cloud 9 Billabong Pro Junior Asia from Sept. 21-28 at Cloud 9 in General Luna

»Smart 17th Siargao International Surfing Cup from Sept. 29 to Oct. 3

»1st Siargao Adventure Race from Oct. 4-6 in Santa Monica.

For more information's, contact Zenny at zenpallugna@yahoo.com.ph

Mangrove protection

2011-08-23T08:24:00.000+08:00

8/23/11 - DAPA, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines – Government officials and environmentalist groups pooled their resources to protect the mangrove forest plantations in Northeastern Mindanao, particularly on Siargao Island where the vast mangrove plantations are located.

Efforts to conserve and protect these vast mangrove forests are being undertaken through intensive information drive regarding its importance.

In some parts of the region, these mangrove forests continue to disappear due to continued use of mangrove as firewood.

On this island alone, about 8,600 hectares of mangrove forests already exists, and considered as one of the biggest mangrove forest reserves in Mindanao.

With this, more than 4,000 hectares are found in the municipalities of Del Carmen and San Benito in the province of Surigao del Norte.

Fringing contiguous mangrove forest is also found in the municipalities of Dapa, Pilar, San Isidro, General Luna, Santa Monica, and Socorro, all of Siargao Island.

Local government unit officials, non-government organizations and concerned government agencies also conducted patrolling, and reforestation and rehabilitation projects in all mangrove areas in the region, especially on this island.

Found on sheltered coastlines and rivers deltas, mangroves grow in brackish wetlands between land and sea where other plants can’t grow.

They protect the coastline and prevent erosion by collecting sediment from the streams and slowing down the flow of water.

Mangroves also have important ecological functions as well as economic uses.

These include: protection of the shoreline, sea grass beds, and coral reefs; nursery for some species of fish, shrimps, and mud crabs; and provide food and sanctuary for other marine life.

Meanwhile, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) also intensified the protection of marine flora and fauna on this island.

Just recently, a big number of marine turtles were returned to the sea by local officials.

Surigao Island is endowed with rich marine flora and fauna, where the sea grass serves as the haven and refuge of marine fauna.

They are important as nurseries for fish, shrimps, lobsters, scallops, and other valuable invertebrates.

Dugong, marine turtles, some sea urchins, fishes and invertebrates feed directly on this habitat.

Sightings of dugong and reports of confiscation of marine turtles are indications that this place is a viable habitat of these endangered species.

The beaches and coastal areas of Siargao and Bucas Grande Island are known to be home of the four marine turtles out of the seven species in the world.

Marine turtles play major roles in nutrients recycling of the marine ecosystem.

They graze on sea grass that helps in the formation of fresh, young leaves with higher nutritional content.

Over the time, these grazed areas offer food and shelter to various small organisms, including small fishes/fingerlings.

All marine turtles serve as nutrient exporters from their foraging habitats to their resting and nesting ground.

It was learned that the population of sea turtle has rapidly declined in the world.

Heavy demand for turtle by-products as wall décor, jewelry pieces, guitars, bags and shoes, egg poaching, pawikan hunting, and loss of nesting sites threatened the remaining stocks of the sea turtles. (Manila Bulletin)

International surfing contest in Siargao

2011-07-22T00:44:00.000+08:00

07/22/11 - SURIGAO CITY, Philippines – Preparations are under way for the 2011 World Junior Surfing Competition to be held at the famous Cloud 9 in General Luna, Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte, known also as “Paradise Island.”

Officials said at least 200 junior surfers coming from the 40 countries have already signified their intention to participate in the international surfing tourney in September this year.

Various committees have been mobilized for the success of this big international event.

The husband and wife team of Rep. Francisco T. Matugas (1st district) and Gov. Sol F. Matugas, jointly pooled their respective resources, along with the nine municipal mayors on the island, and the whole officialdom of the province for the preparation of several programs that can also entertain the international surfers, tourists, and guests during the four-day international competition.

Flights from Manila direct to Siargao Island and from Cebu to Siargao Island are already in place, including motor boat ride from this seaport city to Siargao Island.

Last year, the World Junior Surfing Competition was held in Brazil with a total of 171 out of the 276 surfers in the event competed in the intense 48 heats of the Under 18 and 16 Boys divisions.

The competition has two divisions — boys and girls under 18 and 16 years old

This year, preliminaries and elimination rounds of the World Junior surfing competition will be held in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Australia with the finals and championship rounds to be held at “Cloud 9”, General Luna in Siargao.

“This event will add another mark in the world tourism road map and will bring foreign and local tourists and international and local surfers to Siargao Island, the country’s surfing capital,” added Rep. Matugas.

Meanwhile, in preparation for the influx of tourists and motorists on Siargao Island, Region 13 DPWH Regional Director Danilo E. Versola ordered on Tuesday the Surigao del Norte’s 2nd District Engineering Office to improve the “surf-fishing” capital national roads which lead to various tourist destinations in the “Paradise Island” by paving, rehabilitating, widening and upgrading the roads. (Manila Bulletin)

DPWH starts P64.9 M road projects in Siargao Island

2011-07-10T00:06:00.000+08:00

6/10/11 - SIARGAO ISLAND, Surigao del Norte –- The Department of Public Works and Highways has recently started the implementation of three road concreting projects in Siargao Island worth P64.9 million.

Among these projects are the P18.720 Million Junction Cancohoy-Pilar Road (Cancohoy-Pilar RoadSection), P27.495 Million Junction Del Carmen-Sta. Monica-San Isidro Road (Del Carmen-Sta. Monica-San Isidro Road Section) and the P18.720 Million Junction Osmeña-Pilar Road (Osmeña-Pilar Road Section).

All of these road concreting projects are part of the Siargao circumferential road concreting plan of the DPWH-Surigao del Norte 2nd District Engineering Office.

District Engineer Salvador E. Montil, Jr. said the completion of these road concreting projects will surely provide more reliable access roads for tourists to various tourist spots in the island as well as for farmers in delivering their farm produce to the market areas.

Besides from the concreting works, DPWH is also repairing various roads destroyed by the continuous heavy rains in the past days.

“The Department is doing everything to maintain roads passable especially during heavy rains and influx of motorists in Siargao,” DE Montil added. (DPWH-Siargao Island/PIA-Caraga)

A non-surfers guide to Siargao

2011-06-29T13:25:00.000+08:00

6/29/11 - Flight to Siargao by Cebu Pacific Air was at 10:40 a.m. Upon the invitation of close friend Bingo Matugas, I was looking forward to this trip since our TV crew would be filming outside Cloud 9 and we were developing a story from a non-surfer’s perspective.

Cebu Pacific is the only domestic airline that flies to Siargao airport, one of the smallest airports I’ve been to so far. Well then again, most of the time, we just land our small plane on a small strip anyway.

Arriving around lunchtime, we grabbed a quick meal and headed off to our first few stops of the day - the towns of Pilar and Del Carmen.

Magpupungko is actually part of a beach in Pilar in the Island of Siargao. It is one of those rare places that if described as a period of time rather than a physical place, I wouldn’t disagree. Others may, but I won’t. You see, Magpupungko only appears whenever it’s low tide in Pilar.

It is quite small, temporal (it only exists for a couple of hours), and it is absolutely fantastic! It’s like some magnificent being created this place for creatures who only have a couple of hours to live. You can never say that the water is dirty or tepid, nature does the cleaning here so everything is sparkling and clear and awesome.

Seeing the sun shine bright always makes a film maker’s day. We woke up early on our second day, packed our bags at 6 a.m. and headed for General Luna port where a boat waited to take us to the other side of the island. But before our trip to the other side, we explored the three islets fronting the town of General Luna.

It is best to experience the “three-island boat adventure,” for those who prefer swimming and walking leisurely by the beach.

Our first stop was the farthest island called “Naked Island”. It called this because it is a dome of sand in the middle of the lagoon with no vegetation, not even coconut trees and no inhabitants. One can walk around the island where one will find many washed up shells of different shapes and types. The local name of this sandbar is Pansukian.

Next, take a 15-minute boat ride towards “Daku Island”, whose name in Visayan means ‘big’. It is ideal for picnics and locals sell fresh buko juice for only P15. In December, the island is not recommended for swimming because of the big waves and deep waters. The sand here is powdery-white and the island is teeming with coconut trees that provide good shade.

Perfect for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling is the beautiful “Guyam Islet”, a typical uninhabited tropical island with a white sandy beach and coconut trees around it. Locals also called the isle “chill and grill”.

We were then off to Sohoton Cove in Socorro on Bucas Grande Island. Two hours away from Siargao Island, Bucas Grande is lesser known compared to the other major islands of Surigao namely, Dinagat and Siargao. Prior to the visit, I had not seen pictures of the place, so I did not have a clear image of what to expect. Little did I know that it would turn out to be one of my favorite places in the province of Surigao.

Upon arrival, it felt like we were in a labyrinth as we turned left, right and in all sorts of directions till we finally reached Sohoton Cove. We entered the cove without having to bend down too much. It was small and it took us barely half a minute to pass through. Inside were green cliffs and clear, crisp, turquoise waters. True enough, such a splendid view of nature gave me a feeling of tranquility. As my travel buddy Odys Suarez put it, it is one of those places where one feels like talking to God right there and then while being immersed in His wonderful creation. We swam in the beautiful green water for about 30 minutes before heading back to our boat.

I do not know how it felt like for my other travel mates, but for me, it was more than just a nature trip - it was communing with the Creator’s unfathomable works of wonder.

I guess somehow this trip taught me to shift away from the been-there-done-that kind of mentality while traveling. (sunstar)

DPWH intensifies road right of way monitoring in Siargao Island

2011-06-26T01:18:00.000+08:00

06/26/11 - SIARGAO ISLAND, Surigao del Norte - In an effort to fast track implementation of its projects in Siargao and Bucas Grande islands, the Department of Public Works and Highways Surigao del Norte 2nd District Engineering Office (DPWH-SDN 2nd DEO) has intensified its monitoring on the illegal construction of structures along the perimeter of the national highway.

During the district office monthly staff meeting recently, District Engineer Salvador E. Montil, Jr. has directed the road right-of-way agent and all field engineers to monitor closely and take immediate proper actions on road right-of-way problems so as not to hamper any government improvement projects in the island.

“We must intensify our monitoring on the road right-of-way to avoid delays of the implementation of the projects,” DE Montil said.

As of June 2011, there are 121 illegally constructed structures within the road right-of-way of national roads reported.

Notices have been already issued by the district office to the violators for the removal of the illegal structures along the national roads.

(DPWH-Surigao del Norte /PIA-Caraga)

P500 million nautical highway project up for discussion

2011-05-24T16:18:00.000+08:00

05/23/11 - BUCAS GRANDE, Surigao del Norte – Discussions are underway on the construction of a Php 500 million nautical highway project that will connect connect mainland Surigao, Bucas Grande Island and Siargao Island.

The nautical highway project will be presented during the first Regional Development Council meeting on Sunday with the NEDA and other concerned government agencies.

The route will provide businessmen an alternative way to transport their cargoes from different parts of the Philippines.

On the other hand, for tourists and travelers, the proposed nautical highway will allow them to hop from one island to another and enjoy the scenery of the islands in the comfort of their cars.

The project’s realization will surely improve the socio-economic condition in Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands as it provides employment and investment opportunities especially in tourism industry, said Gov. Sol F. Matugas, who was appointed by President Benigno S. Aquino lll as the new chair of the Regional Development Council.

It was gathered that the DPWH has committed to give its full assistance in the development of the roads that are part of the proposed nautical highway project as the said roads to be constructed will have to be national roads.

“We are determined to push this project because we know that this will boost our tourism and fishing industry in this part of Mindanao,” said Surigao del Norte solon Rep. Francisco T.. Matugas. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)