PinoyJeep: Young Fil-Ams of New England

Explosives Overload: 4th of July and Fireworks in the Philippines

2015-07-12T00:59:00.003-04:00

http://dreamatico.com/fireworks/1/

Hey readers!

Happy Belated Fourth of July! I hope all of you are filled with your share of barbeque and other delicious foods. Personally, the Fourth of July is my favorite time of year because of the abundance of parties. It may be exhausting for some, but I have fun jumping from house to house.

For me, this year’s Fourth of July was a bit more special. I hosted a college student from the Philippines, and brought him to the various activities that one would find in a classic American Independence Day. For three days we swam in pools, watched parades, sat around bonfires, and watched fireworks.

Interestingly, he wasn’t impressed by American fireworks. The ones in the Philippines are much larger, and of course, more dangerous. My parents tell me that many end up in the hospital to have fingers amputated. Living in Massachusetts, where firework regulations are strict, I couldn’t help but research the topic. So, here’s what I found:

One of the most popular firecrackers is called Goodbye Philippines. It’s much larger and more explosive than what is considered safe. Sensibly, the government has declared it illegal to use.

The largest firecracker is the Sinturon Ni Hudas, or, the Judas Belt. The Judas Belt consists of multiple explosives tied along a single fuse. The biggest versions can have up to ten thousand rounds! If you watch the following video, it sounds a lot a machine gun!

Another popular one is called the Superlolo:

According to GMAnews, Piccolo Petes are responsible for the most injuries since 2007. The firecracker is prone to exploding on hands.

Finally, just an awesome video of almost every firecracker imaginable.

Indepndence Day and Celebration in Boston

2015-06-14T00:04:00.000-04:00

Image provided by mandirigma.org

Happy (Belated) Independence Day Readers!

It's been 117 years since our nation's founders declared independence. After 3 centuries of colonial rule, it's understandable to want a change of power.

Also, if you're going to be free this upcoming weekend, I strongly recommend that you come to Boston on June 20th. From 9:00 A.M to 3:00 P.M is Philippine Independence Celebration Day at City Hall. They're planning to have a parade and cultural show in which several Filipino artists will be bringing their talents to the mic. Included is The Voice finalist and local hero, Nathan Hermida. It should be a great time with family and friends.

More information can be found in this link: http://www.thebostoncalendar.com/events/117th-philippine-independence-day-celebration

Flag Day!

2015-06-09T17:41:00.000-04:00

In anticipation for Philippine Independence Day, I also happened to learn that June 12th was also the day the current Philippine flag was adopted.

Correct me if I’m spelling this incorrectly, but it’s name is Tatlong Bituin at Isang Araw, which translated to American is Three Stars and a Sun. Like every work of art, everything that’s on the flag is there for a reason:

The white triangle symbolizes liberty, equality, and fraternity
Blue strip for truth and justice
Red strip for patriotism and valor

For our mathematically-inclined readers, the width length ratio of the flag is 1:2, and there are eight rays in the sun. Each ray is representative of a province that made significant contributions for independence (Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Pampanga, Tarlac, Laguna, Batangas, and Nueva Ecija). The three other stars are representative of the main regions of the Philippines: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Interestingly, in times of war, the flag is flipped upside down so that the red portion is on top.

Ode to Vermont

2015-05-31T20:55:00.003-04:00

Book signing of Vermont local, Tammy Hedrick's "Stella Rose"

Speaking of Asians living in remote parts of the US, yesterday, I spent the whole day digging and reorganizing old knickknacks for our new home in Vermont. Just a few months ago, my mother packed most of her and my belongings and moved to a quaint town near Burlington, VT, a town with a population a little over 5,000, and an Asian population of less than 1%. Since arriving here, I’ve met a total of two Filipinos: Gabbie, one of Kaya Co.’s fellows studying at Middlebury College, and an 80-year old voice teacher.

As more Asians migrate to larger Asian-populated cities to join their families and friends all across the US, my family has always gone against the tide. From Oregon in the West Coast, we travelled to Wisconsin, Massachusetts, Florida, Connecticut, and now humble, quaint Vermont. We’ve moved for my parents’ work and away from the comfort of our Filipino community.

As I look back, I’ve experienced countless times “being the only one” – the only Filipino in my elementary and middle school, the only Asian in my friend group, the only one who ate chicken adobo for lunch everyday. The ride alone was often tough at a young age growing up in New England, but it challenged me to see different perspectives. In a sense, this made me feel closer to my identity as a Filipino-American.

I’ve learned over the years that I’m not the same as most Filipino-Americans I know. I don’t listen to the same music or know the same slang. My parents aren’t nurses or engineers. But the beauty of it is that it doesn’t really matter. Here in New England, we’re small enough that we get ecstatic when we see other Filipinos who have experienced the same journey to get this far.

Driving through Vermont from Massachusetts

While the West Coast has beautiful weather, landscapes and a plethora of other attributes that make many Filipinos flock to places like LA, San Francisco and Seattle, the East Coast has its perks too. We’ve got top-notch education, four seasons, and a new wave of strong, independent migrants, hoping to fulfill their “American Dream”. They say that if you can make in New York, you can make it anywhere. In Vermont, if you can tough it out in the cold among sheepherders, environmentalists and skiers, you can live almost anywhere (knowing that your Filipino side will always be there with you).

Summer 2015: A Return to the Homeland & PinoyJeep

2015-05-18T17:07:00.000-04:00

Hello PinoyJeep Followers!

Almost eight months have passed since my last post for PinoyJeep (a writer’s block that hasn’t gotten any better over the past year). So first, I must apologize for the bareness, and secondly, I would like to inform you that I'll be returning to the Philippines in just a few weeks, which means I'm back!

Almost two years ago, I created PinoyJeep to document our IP Rondalla Tour to the Philippines. Now, two years later, I will be returning with eight other Filipino leaders from universities across the US for an 8-week internship and learning experience. This fellowship is Kaya Collaborative's first step toward its mission of reconnecting Filipino diaspora youth with opportunities for transnational action in the Philippines as it will be spent with homegrown social ventures and local community partners to design solutions in bridging the disconnect between diaspora and home. After the summer, we will be launched back to our diaspora networks to engineer and implement this reconnection at scale. I am excited and eager to share my personal stories on this trip as we embark on this mission.

With that said, I will mostly be using another blogging site to update you on my personal journey this summer. Please check out Sierra’s Jeepney Ride. (We'll see how long this blog lasts before I return to PJ...but it's worth a try.)

Thank you for all of your support these last few years. I cannot express how important your views have been to making PinoyJeep a success, and though it has been tough keeping on track, it is always worth the effort knowing that we have viewers like you, eager to follow our journey.

With much love and excitement for the future of the Philippines!

Sierra Jamir

Beginning of A New Year at IP

2014-09-14T21:47:00.001-04:00

Every year, on a Sunday afternoon in September, Filipino families flock to Bedford, MA, for the first time to commence the school year at IP (Iskwelahang Pilipino). Last week was the first Sunday of the IP year, and we all delighted in once again seeing old friends, and welcoming new faces to the community. There was excitement and anticipation (of merienda) in the air, as everyone mingled together as a community for the first time since the Lowell Folk Fest. We had some fun ice breakers, during which we all had a laugh and got to know one another a little better. We left having had lots of good food and laughs. I can't wait to see what experiences we'll have this year. Here's to another great year at IP!

15 Famous Filipino Universities

2014-09-01T13:48:00.000-04:00

With colleges starting in the United States and high school seniors beginning their college process, PinoyJeep decided to compile a list of a few famous universities that are known to many in the Philippines. Maybe you've heard of University of the Philippines or Ateneo, but have you ever heard of Mapúa or Siliman? Maybe you've heard a few from your Filipino friends and family. Maybe not. There are plenty of universities scattered throughout the 7,101 islands, and this list is only a handful of universities we know. Hopefully, though, this will trigger your interest in learning about other Filipino schools, and maybe you'll decided to study there! So, in no particular order, here are a few famous universities in the Philippines!

1. University of the East (UE)

Location: Caloocan
Founded: 1946
Colors: Red, White
Mascot: REdd Warrior Lualhati
Motto: In the Service of the Youth, Country and God
Tuition: P65,000-80,000 ($1,500-1,830)
Undergraduates: 57,472 (2006)

UE is a private university founded in 1946 and was once the “largest university in Asia”, once having an enrollment of over 60,000. The campus consists of 12 buildings located near Sampaloc, Manila. UE was granted “Autonomous Status” by the CHED which was only given to a select number of institutions with excellent quality education. UE has two main campuses in Caloocan and its medical school, the UE Ramon Magsaysay memorial MEdical Center, in Quezon City.

Notable Alumni: Manuel “Kabayan” L. De Castro, Virgilio S. Almario

2. Ateneo de Manila University

Location: Quezon City
Founded: December 10, 1859
Colors: White, Blue
Mascot: Blue Eagles
Motto: Lux in Domino, “Light in the Lord”

Tuition: P130,000 ($2,960)
Undergraduates: 8,349
Asia Ranking: 115

This private, coed, Roman Catholic university in Quezon City is the oldest jesuit educational institution and third-oldest university in the Philippines. The Ateneo offers programs to elementary, secondary, undergraduate and graduate levels. The university offers a broad range of disciplines in the humanities, liberal arts, social sciences, medicine, public administration, education, business management, law and engineering. The school is well-known for their alumnus, Philippine Hero, Jose Rizal, and various college titles in volleyball and basketball.

Notable Alumni: Jose Rizal, Benigno Aquino III, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Joseph Estrada, Fidel Ramos, Corazon Aquino, Juan Luna, Maria Lourdes Sereno

3. St. Scholastica’s College Manila (SSC)

Location: Malate, Manila
Founded: 1906
Colors: Blue, White
Motto: Ora et Labora “Prayer and Work”
Tuition: P90,000 ($2,050)
Total Students: 9,856

SSC is a Catholic women’s university established in 1906 and managed by the Missionary Benedictine Sisters of Tutzing. The campus is located in Malate in Manila. The college was initially established to offer elementary grades but began admitting high school student in 1907. SSC opened its collegiate department in 1920 and pioneered the formal music education the Philippines, opening a Conservatory of Music in 1907. Although the school is primarily for women, male students may enroll in Music, Fine Arts and Interior Design programs. The university has earned Level III accreditation on all of its respected departments.

Notable Alumni: Barbie Almalbis-Honasan, Corazon Cojuangco-Aquino, Gloria Maria Aspillera Diaz, Maria Ressa (CEO of Rappler)

4. University of Santo Tomas (UST)

Location: Manila
Founded: April 28, 1611
Colors: White, Gold
Mascot: University of Santo Tomas Tiger
Motto: Veritas in Caritate, “Truth in Charity”
Tuition: $80,000 ($1,823)
Undergraduates: 31,179

This private, Roman Catholic research university run by the Order of Preachers in Manila was founded by Miguel de Benavides, the Archbishop of Manila. UST is the oldest university in the country and one of the world’s largest Catholic universities based on its population. UST is also the only Pontifical University in Asia as is the only university to have been visited by two popes three times.

Notable Alumni: Manuel L. Quezon, Sergio Osmeña, José P. Laurel, Diosdado Macapagal

5. De La Salle University (DLSU)

Location: Malate, Manila
Founded: 1911
Colors: White, Green
Mascot: De La Salle - Manila Gordo, Sally and Flaco
Motto: Religio, Mores, Cultura “Religion, Morals, Culture”
Tuition: P180,000 ($4,100)
Undergraduates: 16,193
Asian University Rankings: 151-160th
World University Rankings: 601-640th

This Roman Catholic, Lasallian research university was founded by De La Salle Brothers in Paco, Manila. The college moved to its present location to increase enrollment in 1921. The university started as a boys’ elementary and high school. DLSU is identified by the Philippine Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as a “Center of Excellence” in six of its programs.

Notable Alumni: Korina Sanchez, Vic Soto, Tito Sotto, Ramon Magsaysay Jr., Joey de Leon, Barbie Almalbis

6. University of the Philippines Diliman (UP Diliman)

Location: Quezon City
Founded: 18 June 1908 (UP system) 12 February 1949 (Campus)
Colors: Maroon
Mascot: UP Oblation
Motto: Honor and Excellence
Tuition: P25,000-30,000 ($570-680) depends on annual income
Undergraduates: 15,299
Asian University Rankings: 63

This co-educational and public research university is the main campus and the fourth oldest constituent university of the University of the Philippines System. The university was created from 493-hectare area of the Diliman district to address the increasing population and to expand its academic programs. Between the 1970s and 80s, UP Diliman was the site of much student activism against Marcos’ administration, a precursor to his declaration of martial law in 1972. The library resources of UP Diliman are the largest in the country, numbering 1,170,723 volumes. The Commission on Higher Education has declared nine UP Diliman units as Center of Excellence as of 2009, the highest recognized by this agency. It is also homed to the country’s National Science Complex, where many of the country’s leading scientists conduct research.

Notable Alumni: Christian Bautista, Ryan Cayabyab, Eraserheads members Ely Buendia, Raimund Marasigan, Marcus Adoro and Buddy Zabala, Anna Theresa Licaros, Chito Miranda (Parokya ni Edgar), Jessica Soho, Felipe L. Gozon, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo

7. Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP)

Location: Anonas, Manila
Founded: October 19, 1904
Colors: Maroon, Gold
Mascot: Mighty Maroon
Motto: Tanglaw ng Bayan “Light of the Nation”
Tuition: P3,000-4,000 ($68-90)
Undergraduates: 55,282 (2012)

This coeducational, research university in Manila is governed by the Republic Act Number 8292 known as the Higher Education Modernization Act of 1997. The university operates on three campuses located throughout Manila. PUP is the largest university with more than 60,000 students and is the avenue for the development of the citizenry and enhancement of nation building through growth and transformation. PUP puts an emphasis on the alleviation of the plight of the poor. Coined “The Cheapest University in Asia,” PUP is notable for charging the lowest tuition among all universities in the Philippines at 12 pesos (US$0.29) per academic unit, a unit that has remained unchanged since 1979.

Notable Alumni: Satur Ocampo, Ted Failon

8. University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB or Elbi)

Location: Los Baños, Laguna
Founded: March 6,1909
Colors: Forest Green, Maroon
Mascot: Oblation
Motto: Honor and Excellence
Tuition: P25,000-30,000 ($570-680) depends on annual income
Undergraduates: 10,756

UPLB is a public university located in the rural town of Los Baños, Laguna and serves as the College of Agriculture University of the Philippines, founded by the American colonial government to promote agricultural education and research in the Philippines. The university has played a pivotal role in Asian agriculture and biotechnology due to its pioneering efforts in plant breeding and high-yielding, pest-resistant crops. UPLB was aware the Ramon Magsaysay Award for international Understanding in 1977. The university also hosts many research centers, including the international Rice Research Institute (IRRI), ASEAN Center for Biodiversity, World Agroforestry Centre, and Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA). UPLB alumni have been recognized in many fields, including 13 scientists who were awarded the title National Scientists of the Philippines and the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize.

Notable Alumni: Ariella Arida, Nicolas Perlas

9. Adamson University (AdU)

Location: Manila
Founded: June 20, 1932
Colors: Blue, White
Motto: Thee Thy Will;
Education with a Heart;
Veritas in Caritate “Truth in Charity”
Tuition: P45,000 ($1,025)
Undergraduates: 17,160 (2013)

A private and Catholic university founded by Greek immigrant George Lucas Adamson as the Adamson School of Industrial Chemistry. Adamson has programs in Graduate School, Law, the Liberal Arts, Sciences, Engineering, Nursing, Pharmacy as well as secondary, elementary and preparatory education.

Notable Alumni: Ruthlane Uy Asmundson (former city mayor of Davis, CA), MIchael Christian Martinez (figure skater),

10. Mapua Institute of Technology (Mapúa)

Location: Intramuros Campus, Makati City
Founded: 1925
Colors: Red, Gold
Mascot: Cardinals
Motto: Learn, Discover, Create
Tuition: P100,000-150,000 ($2,280-3,420)

Undergraduates: approx. 16,000

Mapua was founded by the first registered Filipino architect, Don Tomás Mapúa in 1925, a graduate of Cornell University. The campus is situated in the Intramuros, the old, Spanish section of the Manila. Mapua has a reputable source of architects, engineers and science graduates. The institute has been granted with Level IV Accredited Status in its Civil Engineering program by the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation. Mapua is also the first Philippine and Southeast Asian institution to have ABET certification.

Notable Alumni: Lee Seng Lip, Pablo Antonio, Leon Chua

11. Siliman University (SU)

Location: Dumaguete, Negros Oriental
Founded: 28 August 1901
Colors: Red, White
Mascot: Stallions and Mares
Motto: Via, Veritas, Vita, “The Way, the Truth, and the Life”
Tuition: P25,000-35,000 ($570-800)
Total Students: 9,856

Silliman is a private research university in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental and is the first American university in the Philippines and the entire Asian continent. The university was named after Horace Brinsmade Silliman, a retired businessman and philanthropist from Cohoes, New York. At first, the school started as a boys elementary school, which expanded to become a college in 1910, acquiring university status in 1938. Silliman was run by Americans until after WWII, when Filipinos began to assume more important positions. Silliman is one of only five universities in the Philippines with “Institutional Accreditation” by the FAAP, which is the highest certification that can be granted to an educational institution after an overall examination of the programs, facilities, faculty and services. The university is registered as a National Landmark by the National Historical Institute. In 2014, the university was ranked 47th as the most beautiful Christian university campuses around the world.

Notable Alumni: Carlos P. Garcia, Cornelio Villareal

12. University of San Carlos (USC)

Location: Cebu City
Founded: 1595
Colors: Green, Gold
Mascot: Stallions and Mares
Motto: Scientia, Virtus, Devotio
Tuition:
Total Students: 26,000+

USC is the premier university in Cebu and one of the top 10 leading universities in the country rankings. This private Catholic university was founded by Spanish Jesuits fathers Antonio Sedeno, Pedro Chirino and Antonio Pereira in 1595, making this the oldest university in Asia. (The school is older thank Harvard!) The university is the only school in the Visayas to be recognized by CHED as a Center of Excellence in Chemistry. USC has been noted as among the leading universities in the country with long tradition of research and publication. The campus consists of five campuses in different areas of Metro Cebu - Downtown, Talamban, North (formerly the Boys high school), South (formerly the Girls high school), and Montessori Academy.

Notable Alumni: Antonio Abad (Poet, Fictionist), Eula Caballero (Actress), Maria Cabase (Actress)

13. Xavier Univeristy - Ateneo de Cagayan

Location: Cagayan de Oro City
Founded: 1933
Colors: White, Blue
Mascot: Crusader Knight
Motto: Veritas Liberabit Vos"The Truth Shall Set You Free"
Tuition: P24,500-39,000 ($560-900)
Total Students: 10,467 (2012-13)

Xavier University is a private, Catholic university run by the Society of Jesus. The school was founded on June 7, 1933 by American Jesuit missionary Fr. James T.G. Hayes, S.J., who became the first Bishop and Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro. In 1958, Ateneo de Cagayan became a university and was renamed to Xavier University to honor St. Francis Xavier. This 8-hectare main campus lies in the heart of Cagayan de Oro City with an extension of the university in manresa Complex, a 50-acre campus used for experimental and demonstration farms in the College of Agriculture.

Notable Alumni: Teofisto T. Guingona Jr. (Former Vice-President of the Philippines),

14. Central Luzon State University (CLSU)

Location: Muñoz, Nueva Ecija
Founded: 1907
Colors: Yellow, Green
Mascot: Tiger
Motto: Pambasang Pilipinas "Where Difference is Created"
Tuition: P14,000-16,000 ($320-370)
Total Students: 10,000

This state university in Central Luzon is a premiere institution for agriculture in the Philippines and Southeast Asia and is the first state university to undergo institutional accreditation. The university was first named the Central Luzon Agricultural School (CLAS) to promote agriculture and mechanics arts. The university was then elevated to a university status in 1965 to provide professional training in agricultural methods and techniques and to offer courses in the field of arts, literature, science and technology. Lately, the university has been designated as one of the most respected institutions of higher learning in the Philippines. The campus of 658-hectares is located north of Manila and also offers 1000-hectares for ranch and forestry development.

15. Saint Louis University (SLU)

Location: Baguio City
Founded: 19111
Colors: White, Blue
Mascot: Stallions and Mares
Motto: Sapienta Aedificat "Wisdom Builds"
Tuition: P40,000-60,000 ($920-1,400)
Total Students: 30,274

Saint Louis University was established in 1911 by the Congregatio Immaculati Cordis Mariae missionaries to Christianize the northern Philippines. In 1915, the St. Louis School expanded and became a vocational and trade school. Then, in 1952, with the effort of Msgr. William Brasseur and Rev. Fr. Rafael Desmedt, St. Louis College was founded, consisting of three departments: Education, Liberal Arts and Commerce and Secretarial. The campus is situated in the heart of Baguio City and has more than 30 buildings, offering an array of programs to elementary, secondary, undergraduate and graduate levels.

Sources taken from Wikipedia and various school websites.

PinoyJeep's Top 15 Filipino Desserts

2014-08-23T14:50:00.000-04:00

Filipinos live and breathe food. It's all we talk about at parties and dinners, and desserts are no exception. To honor the Filipino love for sweets and candy, the PinoyJeep bloggers compiled a list of their top 15 Filipino desserts to satisfy any sweet tooth.

15. Cassava Cake

When you bite into this cake, your mouth will literally start craving for more. The rich, cassava dish is a favorite among Filipinos. I mean, it’s no surprise that every Filipino party we go to has this as one of their desserts!

erecipe.com

14. Leche Flan

This egg and milk-based custard topped with caramelized sugar will satisfy any sweet tooth. Perfect with coffee or milk.

www.sbs.com.au

13. Turon

Plantains wrapped in brown sugar and lumpia skin then deep fried. Oh yes. Sprinkle it with some caramelized sugar and you’ve got yourself heaven in a blanket.

jolinalee.com

12. Bibingka

Grate some cassava, add coconut milk, sugar, butter and cheese, bake it in banana leaves and ta-da! You’ve got Bibingka! Well...of course there's more to that. The soft, spongy flat cake, slightly charred on the surface and infused with flavor from the leaves makes this dessert desired among all Filipinos.

casaveneracion.com

11. Suman

First, glutinous rice is cooked in coconut milk and then steamed in buli leaves, giving a uniquely balmy, chewy texture. The wrapping itself is an art than can be traced to pre-colonial roots. Definitely a true Filipino dish with some nasty (in a good way) flavors.

www.livelifelaughandlivelonger.
blogspot.com

10. Tablea Tsokolate

This isn’t your typical Swissmiss from Stop & Shop. Tablea Tsokolate is made from the real tablea de cacao, a bittersweet, thick flat chocolate disk, a drink good in the morning with Pan De Sal.

ascientistinthekitchen.net

9. Ginataang Bilo-Bilo

Now, it may not look appetizing, seeing as you have taro roots, sweet potato, tapioca and plantains floating in warm mixture of coconut milk, but it is so mouthwatering that it’s hard to resist. My favorite part is the big, gummy rice balls.

astigvegan.com

8. Puto bumbong

Puto is traditionally made from purple mountain rice, which is steamed in bamboo tubes and served with butter, panocha and grated coconut. There are numerous variations of this traditional dessert across the Philippines.

foodlve.com

7. Ensaymada

Mmmmm...a bread roll topped with with sugar, butter and grated cheese. It’s a common cuisine from Spain, but of course, we Filipinos had to make it our own by adding cheddar cheese. During Christmas season, it's a tradition to top ensaymada with “queso de bola” and eat it with hot chocolate and strawberries.

ph.she.yahoo.com

6. Sans Rival

“Without Rival” because there ain’t no rival for this one! This Filipino dessert is caked with layers of buttercream, meringue and cashews. It may not be the healthiest dish there is, but it absolutely creamy and delectable. Thank the French for this unrivaled dessert.

ffemagazine.com

5. Buko Pandan Salad

Ew! What’s that green goo? Okay, it may look like Aliens are taking over the world, but don’t worry, it’s completely harmless and addictively delicious! Green gelatin, green nata de coco, and milk make this delectable dish desirable.

Foodspotting.com

4. Pan De Sal

A classic favorite of all Filipinos. When right out of the oven, the bread will literally feel like heavenly clouds. The brownish crust will open up to a soft, buttery center that is TO DIE FOR. If you’re ever in Manila, check out Pan De Manila. They make their breads fresh everyday.

smithbites.com

3. Buko Pie

A Laguna favorite. Slices of fresh coconut pieces toppled with a warm, baked crust. While the coconut wars in Laguna (as recreated in the “Maglalatik” dance) are over, the war on which is the best buko pie continues in the province to this day.

www.mykitchenandphotography.com

2. Ube Cake

Don’t let the yam fool you. The funky, purple yam found in cakes and icecreams in Red Ribbon or Goldilocks lives up to its absurdity and flavor. Ube is surprisingly sweet, especially in signature cakes and pastries. While the root isn’t necessarily “healthy” when added with sugar and whipped cream, it’s astonishingly flavorful and why we rated it #2 on our list.

bakehappy.com

1. Halo Halo

Hands down, halo-halo is the best Filipino dessert there is. It’s crunchy, chewy, sweet and DE-LICIOUS. Halo-halo is made by crushing ice and adding spoonfuls of sugar, evaporated milk, colorful gellies, caramelized bananas, coconut, leche flan, ube ice cream and literally anything that has loads of sugar to make you jump off the walls. It’s a party favorite.

kapisanancentre.com

Thanks for reading the list! I know there are countless other Filipino desserts that aren’t on this list because there would just be too many to write about, but I hope you enjoyed savoring these sweets through your computer screen as much as we did. If you have any suggestions on foods you’d like us to feature, please comment below!

A Moment That Never Should've Happened: Ninoy Aquino Day

2014-08-22T00:30:00.001-04:00

Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr. (1932 - 1983)

Hello Again Readers!

August 21st is Ninoy Aquino Day, marking 31 years since his assassination. Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. was as a prominent critic of the Marcos regime, whose unconstitutional rule declared martial law. His political dissidence led to incarceration, as predictable in any autocracy. Fortunately, he was granted an exile to the United States due to medical purposes, but he would not be allowed return to the Philippines. After three years, he did just that, despite impending imprisonment. Many Filipinos believed that upon his arrival, Marcos was destined to fall. Sadly, things turned for the worst as Ninoy disembarked his plane, leaving him vulnerable in the open. He was shot behind the head.
Most of the public suspects Marcos responsible for the brutal murder, if not his wife Imelda. If the killing was arranged by the government, its effects were backfiring, as many Filipinos protested in outrage. They took to the streets peacefully, following the nonviolent approach encouraged by their deceased leader Ninoy. The dictatorship toppled, and the widowed Corazon Aquino would establish a democracy that was non-existent during martial law.

Miguel

A wounded Ninoy is carried to safety.

New Mission Statement

2014-08-17T22:44:00.000-04:00

Hello Lovely Readers,

In light of our new direction, the staff at PinoyJeep have produced a mission statement, clearly defining our goals and purpose. Like any well-run organization, it's important to maintain some type of structure. The following can be found in the About Us page:

At PinoyJeep, our team of bloggers and participating writers engage in what it means to be Filipino. We share our perspectives of heritage through articles and submitted entries, at the same time discussing culture, history, and language. In addition, PinoyJeep strives to interact with Filipino communities based throughout the New England region. Our work includes reporting on local events and affairs, most notably Iskwelahang Pilipino and its Rondalla Ensemble. Finally, we encourage strengthening our relationships with Filipinos back home by community service.

Miguel

"Here Lies Love" - An Imelda Marcos Musical

2014-08-17T01:06:00.000-04:00

Having seen a few broadway shows before, I had never come across such a multi-sensory, audience-involved performance as this one. It's hard to explain, exactly, but I hope my perspective will give a sense of why.

For more information visit: Here Lies Love Website

"Here Lies Love" Playbill and tickets

When Carsyn told me about a musical based on Imelda Marcos during a gathering, I assumed this would be a rather low-budget, high strung performance. I mean, it’s Imelda Marcos, the woman with 1,000 shoes who, in my mind, seemed an odd person getting the spotlight (seeing as our conversation at the time was on the crux of Filipino politics).

However, as any proud Filipino would do, I researched it that night and impressed by the reviews and stunning short videos of the show, I convinced my mom to buy tickets and head to New York City a week later.

The Public Theater is located near the heart of Cooper Union in Lower Manhattan. Having stayed at home for the last few weeks, ascending the three (or so) floors to the small, intimate stage took a bit of effort, but once at the top, we were treated with a neon-purple shrine with Catholic ornaments and pictures of Imelda Marcos scattered next to the stairwell. It only got better.

‘Here Lies Love,’ a disco party, high-energy musical took us back to Imelda Marcos’ beginnings -- from her small life in Leyte to the indulgent Malacañan Palace. With David Byrne (from The Talking Heads) and Fatboy Slim as the brains behind the production, you can never expect anything of the normal.There was nowhere to sit, not that it was ever needed. A disco ball hung from the ceiling, neon colors and blaring dance music kept us on our feet. We were literally forced to dance (crazily) in circles and on stage, as actors interweaved into to the crowd and people in jumpsuits moved piece of the stage into differents shapes and sizes.

Sierra in front of the Public Theater

The cast of mainly Filipinos, brought to life not only the history, but also the palpable feeling of millions of Filipinos during this period. I was stunned to see Jose Llana play the corrupt Ferdinand Marcos (he was at IP not too long ago for the Tea Musical!) married to the indulgent Imelda Marcos (Jaygee Macapugay). I felt empowered when Benigno Aquino (Conrad Ricamora) fought for justice and disheartened when he was killed right before our eyes. We were not just audience members. We were the people at Marcos’ inaugural speech, in Imelda’s crazy New York dance parties, on television, in protests, at Aquino’s funeral and at Imelda’s exile. We were there.

Projection of Imelda

Although the story follows Imelda’s life of rags to riches, it is ultimately a story about the people who suffered at the cost of Imelda’s desire to be loved. It’s about those who pitied Imelda as a child. Who supported her when she left Leyte. Cheered when her husband won a landslide victory and eventually retaliated when Imelda’s love for glamor and ritz soured her own love for the Philippines. In the fashion of dance steps and disco balls, we understood.

Descending the three or so flights of stairs, I couldn’t get the main tune out of my head, even as we rode the subway back to Queens where our car was parked. “Here Lies Love.” Imelda had once said she wanted this written on her tombstone. It’s a paradox. Either it could mean, “Here, there is love,” as in it is right in front of us, or, “Love is a liar.”

New Kid on the Blog: Carsyn Fisher

2014-08-13T22:56:00.000-04:00

As PinoyJeep continues to grow, we will be adding new perspectives, interests and ideas each and every week on all-things Fil-Am. One person who will make this happen is this girl. Welcome Carsyn, our third PinoyJeep Blogger! - SJ

Hello everyone!

I am so excited to be writing blog posts for PinoyJeep, because being a Filipino-American is an important part of how I identify myself, and writing is one of my passions.

Daughter of a Filipino immigrant, I've lived in Massachusetts my whole life and have never had the opportunity to visit the Philippines, but Filipino culture still remains a strong aspect of my home life because I live with my Lola (grandmother) and there's always Filipino food in my house. In addition, I attend a Filipino cultural school every other Sunday, where I was first introduced to the Filipino community as a younger kid. It's like having a second family. From this blog, I hope to share my pride in being a part of this Filipino family and discuss the Filipino culture in New England. I hope to soon travel to the Philippines, and I would love to do a mission trip there sometime!

I attend an all-girls high school about 45 minutes from Boston, and honestly I love it. In school, I love history and English. I would love to study law, journalism or political science in the future. International relations in particular interests me. Outside of school, I spend most of my time running (3 seasons of cross country & track), reading (I live precariously through literature), and eating (I'm Filipino, what did you expect?). I love reading about current events, gardening, traveling, playing sudoku, playing with my dog, and wearing plaid. I'm a sophomore, older sister, vegetarian, and proud feminist. And I can't wait to have more adventures on PinoyJeep!

Carsyn

New Look for a New Jeepney

2014-08-12T00:24:00.003-04:00

Hey PinoyJeep followers,

Hope you love the new layout as much as we do! We still need to expel a few bugs, but for the most part, we hope you're dazzled by how our creative fingers pulled off something like this! We're revamping our outdated layout and adding a bit of flare to our design. Thumbs up?

With plenty of changes occurring before the inevitable first day of school and the cold, dreary nights that come with it, we're trying our best to make a new, striking image for "PinoyJeep" and prepare a great line-up of all-things Fil-Am while we're still free.

CLICK HERE to subscribe to PinoyJeep: Young Fil-Ams of New England!

Cheers,
Sierra

p.s. If it weren't for the coding-half of it, I probably could pull off a sideline in graphic design, that is, unless you think this layout reeks of baby doodles and cave paintings...I hope you at least say cave paintings. That would be nice...

Meet Miguel, the New Guy!

2014-08-08T20:28:00.004-04:00

We've had a number of feature writers over the few months PinoyJeep has been around, however, we have never had writers who are eager and determined enough to take full responsibility of becoming a regular PinoyJeep blogger! Meet my new sidekick, mi amigo, Miguel! - SJ

p.s. Also look for more info about our writers, Sierra and Miguel, in our "Meet the PinoyJeep Bloggers" page.

Blogger #2 is on board!

Greetings Folks!

One of the reasons I’ve decided to join this publication, is to write about a community that sincerely means to me. Growing up Filipino-American, my parents have always kept me exposed to the different circles of Titos and Titas. I have befriended their kids, some of whom I consider cousins. I’ve tried all the foods, which Tita so persistently offers to “hab some more”.

I see myself on a simple mission: to provide a voice for our network of Boston-based Filipinos. Now I don’t plan on being some sort of glorified champion, screaming into a microphone and rallying the masses like Adolf Hitler, but as a steady presence, observing and reporting. In a way, I see myself in service to the community, utilizing my ability to write.

But enough of this “objective” talk. You’re probably wondering who’s that handsome man in the photo? Well, I’m proud to claim that that’s my face. I attend an all-boys school in Massachusetts, and the only girls I ever get so see are every two weeks (IP). I have a multifarious range of interests, but I’m most passionate about entrepreneurship and politics; in fact, a dream of mine includes operating my own business. My friends say I’m preppy, and speaking of, my favorite sport is lacrosse. While the style of most Filipinos are street-urban, I’m quite the opposite. I’m a minority within the minority. But that doesn’t mean I’m not capable of big things right?

P.S. Be prepared for the loads of propaganda I’ll be posting.

Love,
Miguel

Contact me at: miguelespinosaiv@gmail.com

PinoyJeep: A New Blogger on Board

2014-08-02T23:54:00.000-04:00

Dear PinoyJeep Readers,

If you haven't noticed, we've changed the name of PinoyJeep from "Boston Rondalla Kids" to "Young Fil-Ams of New England" because we no longer will focus on Rondalla-related events in New England. Yes. We are opening up our scope to ALL THINGS FILIPINO IN NEW ENGLAND! That means I you have any event or happening worth mentioning, we'd love to know! Check for updates in and around PinoyJeep as well.

More importantly, in about three weeks, I'll be heading off to college, which means that I am relinquishing my PinoyJeep throne to my IP friend, companion and lil' bro, the mighty Miguel Zialcita, a wonderful dancer who will fight you for that tinikling spot and a true Fil-Am. I plan to chime in with a few bits of Fil-Am news from the college side, but look forward to hearing mainly from Miguel and his crew of new and upcoming Filipino friends. (Here's his first article, There's No Place Like Lowell, which got a ton of views!) While he is pretty brand new to PinoyJeep, watch out 'cause he's got a plethora of creative blog ideas for all of you to read!

Stay tuned for more from PinoyJeep.

From,
(The relinquished) Sierra Jamir

There's No Place Like Lowell

2014-07-31T18:15:00.002-04:00

The IP Lowell Crew after a long weekend on the job! Good Job, everyone! (Photo courtesy of Tita Patty)

Hello PinoyJeep Followers!

The following post was written by Miguel, who will be joining our blog:

It’s that time of year! With the dates July 25 to 27 circled on your calendar, there’s no escaping the Lowell Folk Festival. It’s an integral part of your experience as an IP student (Lowell to IP is like Mecca to Muslims), or parent for the matter, and isn’t that way without reason. Lowell is vital to our school’s funds and is the culmination of scrupulous planning, management and effort. In a way, Lowell has become an entity of its own, requiring our utmost care and attention.

The servers getting ready to greet the customers with some good food!
(Photo courtesy of Tita Patty)

Such events demand heavy preparation like The Workshop. Perhaps sacrificing a beautiful Saturday afternoon to stab strips of meat and slice vegetables isn’t the greatest trade-off, but it needed to be completed. Everyone assembled and worked dutifully at his or her station, sweaty elbows bumping, occupied in conversation. An early 4 o’clock release testified to the group’s efficiency. Some of us teenagers decided to savor the gorgeous weather right after and held our own basketball and tennis games. There’s nothing like unwinding.

Then came the Folk Festival: our Superbowl. Hungry and curious stomachs lined the street, eager to taste Iskwelahang Pilipino’s selection of aromatic foods, served onto paper plates by amicable youngsters. Customers who had never heard of the school inquired. Others showed loyalty, claiming: “This our xth year of eating here!”.

What a lovely dish of lumpia, fried rice and
pancit! (courtesy of Tita Dolly)

IP’s booth is always a hub of activity. The simple idea of serving customers food is much more difficult than it sounds, since a spectrum of jobs are required to accomplish the task. A hardy group of men operate between the grills, smoke billowing into their faces. Parents team on the pancit and rice, while a table row of Titas fold lumpia and turon. However, crucial to the schematic is the participation of runners, whose job is to bridge input (cooks) to the output (servers). Runners must deliver heavy loads of rice or pancit, a physical toll on one’s back. When a particular food is empty, runners become the lifeline to the servers and customers by updating them on the next batch’s status. Upon delivery, their arrival is similar to that of Santa Claus to a child, bringing the much anticipated and fresh goods. Servers, who interact with the customer, are the faces of IP. They represent the school and, in the case of Lowell, our Filipino culture. Servers are mostly comprised of students, whose youthfulness project a cheerful attitude. Their smaller, quicker physique allows them to handle plates with dexterity.

Any bystander looking past the servers and behind the scenes might refer to our operations as a soup of chaos, considering the innumerable amounts of tools, equipment and labor. Personally, I’ve always wondered how someone from the outside might view our practically makeshift restaurant. It’s fascinating that in a span of three days, we can lay down our tents and claim a section of a street as home, well beyond outfitted. Our section even dedicates a portion of its space to the workers! But with big ambitions come big costs. The Titos and Titas that’ve tackled Lowell’s logistics deserve a nice applause, and thanks to their diligent management, our school can stay afloat. Maybe it’ll eat a bit of your weekend, but everyone needs to contribute, and hey, we have food! IP’s site in Lowell is truly an experience for customer or volunteer.

Peace,

Miguel

PAMAS 2O14 Scholarship Awards

2014-07-27T21:34:00.001-04:00

Avi with the Santos Family holding her award

Sierra with the Harold Family and her award

Hi PinoyJeep Readers,

Last week on Sunday, PAMAS (The Filipino-American Association of New England) held its annual scholarship night, this year, awarding Avi and I scholarship for our dedication to higher excellence and for helping the Filipino-American community here in Massachusetts. Tita Lidy Chan, the President of PAMAS, hosted the event and Alpha Miguel-Sanford, assistant headmaster of Randolph High School, was the keynote speaker for the night, who spoke extensively as to how Filipinos and even pancit can be "remarkable" if put to good use. Avi received the Angelito & Esther Santos Family Scholarship Award and I received the Harold Hofman Scholarship Award, funds that will be used wisely for college! The ceremony was then followed by dancing (of course) and eating and chatting. Typical of a Filipino party. Of course. For those Filipino-Americans who will be entering senior year, if you would like to be recognized for your work in the Filipino community and want a little cash reward for your college endeavors, apply for the PAMAS Scholarship! It's easy and worth it! Click here to visit the PAMAS website for more information.

Sierra Jamir

A Year Anniversary: Continuing the Filipino Spirit at Home

2014-07-22T00:49:00.001-04:00

Hi PinoyJeep Readers!

I can't believe that exactly a year ago, the members of IP Rondalla began their departure to the United States after a three-week tour around the Philippines. After visiting Manila, San Pablo, Bicol, Cebu, Bohol, Batangas, Bataan, Diliman and Los Baños, these Fil-Ams returned home, refreshed, renewed and excited to share their wonderful experiences with their friends at home.

Since the tour, we've continued to represent our Filipino identity in America through our love of music and family. Since we haven't posted anything recently, here are some pictures of the IP Rondalla thus far and, for kicks, some throwbacks from our memorable IP Rondalla Rocks! Tour. Thank you, readers, for continuing to make PinoyJeep a success.

Dear friends in the Philippines, if you have any photos or personal stories that have to do with the IP Rondalla Rocks! Tour or other Filipino events that you would like to share with the community, feel free to e-mail them to Sierra Jamir at sierrajamir@gmail.com.We are happy to share your stories online!

Southeast Asian Fiesta at Phillips Andover

Left: Tito Manny, Tita Rose and Tita Naty standing by the Lechon served during the Second Annual Southeast Asian Fiesta at Andover Philippines. Above: The Angkor Dance Troupe from Lowell, IP Rondalla and the SEA (Southeast Asian) Club at Phillips Academy. The Cambodian Angkor Dance Troupe and the Rondalla performed during a joint event to celebrate the diversity of Southeast Asian countries during this one event. Very exciting performance and buffet!

IP Rondalla Recital in June

Top Left: The IP Rondalla members new with some new faces! All groups performed during this event, playing songs, such as "Ako Ay Pilipino", "Bahay Kubo", "Mabuhay", "Kalesa", "Pilipina" and more! Top Right: George and our new bassist, Jaenald, playing "Kalesa". Bottom: Tita Cris, founder and previous director of the IP Rondalla speaking after receiving a honorary plant from the Rondalla teachers.

Philippine Independence Day in Boston

IP Rondalla members during Philippine Independence Day in Boston waving their Filipino flags! Happy Birthday, Philippines! Mahal Kita! (Photos courtesy of Tita Patty)

2014 Iskwelahang Pilipino Graduation

Say "Hello" to this year's Iskwelahang Pilipino graduates, Avi, Nolen, Sierra and Julian for your many years of service as IP members and proud Filipino Americans. Good Luck in college and beyond!

Blast From the Past...

Throwbacks from the IP Rondalla Rocks! Tour

UP Los Baños Performance

Saint Agnes Academy, Bicol Performance

Polytechnical University of the Philippines (PUP) Performance

Loboc Children's Choir in Bohol

After Resorts World Manila Performance

SM Mall in San Pablo City with PPP School

Villa Escudero next to the waterfall on a rainy day

Eat Bulaga! Special Performance

Performance at Central Luzon State University

Performance in Tagbilaran, Bohol Cultural Center

Until we meet again, Pilipinas.

Love,

Sierra Jamir

The PinoyJeep Blogger

Ryzza Mae Dizon Picture!

2014-03-07T21:55:00.000-05:00

Long time no see!

Here's a picture I'm sure all of you will love! Recognize this little girl? Well it's Ryzza Mae from Eat Bulaga! When we were at GMA waiting to be featured on Eat Bulaga during the IP Rondalla Tour, we waited in Ryzza Mae's changing room! Here's a picture taken by Tita Beth. Thanks for sending me the picture, Marisa!

Sierra Jamir

2O13 Palaro Olympics!

2014-02-09T19:26:00.001-05:00

Aaron plays sipa (cred: Tita Patty)

Pa Pa Pa Palaroooo
Wooohoooo ! \(^_^)/

Hi, I'm Avi, and I am a senior student at IP.

This year, we had an early Palaro games for the Sochi Olympics that just began a few days ago. So, two weeks ago, many of us dressed up in different colors to represent the five different teams: pula (red), puti (white), bughaw (blue), verde (green) and dilaw (yellow). Nolen headed the games.

I was captain of the Pula team, so I was in charge of volunteering my teammates to participate in the events. There was this one 8 year-old little girl who was experiencing her second day at IP. She was shy and nervous, but I persuaded her to try one of the jumping games. Although reluctant, she followed me up to play the game. She had to jump over hands. I told her to pretend she was a jumping bean. A smile began to form as she began jumping. I cheered her on until her turn was up. Just like many of the kids who finished their game, she was smiling as she walked back to our corner.

Luksong Tinik (credit: Tita Patty)

I enjoy seeing everyone smile during the games, especially the little kids. As the competition brewed everyone becomes hungry to win, which is a little nerve racking. It was this little girls second day at IP and she was definitely nervous. But after that jumping game, she euphorically volunteered herself to participate in the relay race and other events. We had a few cheater (ehem...), but of course, it was all about the fun fun fun! I can tell the girl had fun and so did we.

Unfortunately, my team ended up tying with yellow for third place. Puti ended up winning the event with Bughaw trailing a few points behind. Verde came in last.

At the end all teams got candy. I love how the little kids eager faces lit up when they happily grab candy from the box I was holding.

Thanks IP, for a great start to Sochi!
Avi

2O13 IP Caroling! Thank You!

2014-02-09T19:24:00.003-05:00

Hey PinoyJeep Bloggers,

This is Avi, an IP student and an IP caroler!
Caroling
Sleigh bells ringing, carolers singing
its that time of year.

During Christmas time, Carolers and rondalla performers are requested at several households to sing. The IP Christmas Carolers, who consist of IP parents, alumni, and students, are more than happy to sing upon the requests. Practices begin in September and continue each month until the days of presenting begins. We also perform with the IP Rondalla!

IP Carolers getting ready to sing!

The carolers raise money to help fund IP programs, but last year funds were also raised for the typhoon victims in the Philippines. Every year we raise money for our organization, but this year meant more because we were able to raise money for the victims in the Philippines. Some of us have loved ones affected by the disaster. Christmas is a time of year to recognize and appreciation our loved ones. Christmas is the time of year when generosity is most noticeably warm-hearted, with love so proud and loud. The IP Carolers sing loudly and proudly not to just solely raise money, but also to spread warmth and joy to the Greater Boston community. This was definitely a wonderful year to celebrate family and spread the Filipino love.

IP Rondalla performing Kalesa (cred: Tita Dolly)

As the dancing snowflakes listen to the sweet sound of song, the carolers remind everyone how love is a simple joy that is spread even during the coldest times of the year.

Sorry for this extremely late post...
Thanks for an awesome caroling season!

Love,
Avi

College Apps, College Apps, College Apps...

2014-01-17T18:45:00.000-05:00

Hi y'all,

So just two days ago, I submitted my last college app. Woot! Woot! Honestly though, I thought I would feel a pang of relief once I clicked the last "submit" button and got a note that says, "Congratulations, your application has been submitted!" but frankly, I don't feel any less stressed and exhausted than I did when I first started this long, grueling process. Gosh, I can't believe I'm graduating...Anyway, speaking of colleges, today, I decided to unearth some college apps I wrote over break and came across this one short answer.

Please tell us what you found meaningful about one event that you attended within the last year.

I won't tell you which college(s) asked this question (I even reworded the question) but I thought you might enjoy my response. So here it is:

Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) a.k.a. the cheapest university in Asia.

On the second day of our three-week Philippine tour, we were scheduled to perform with PUP’s musical groups at their main campus in Manila. Mind you, we had just performed for the President of the Philippines and had our largest show at the prestigious Resorts World. So, driving past PUP’s dilapidated gate was kind of a shocker to all of us.

Group picture with all of the PUP performers

The university’s interior didn’t impress us either. The ceiling was moldy. There were no toilet seats, soap, or toilet paper. I guess we were pre-judging the pending performance of our PUP partners, partly due to our high-browed American standards…and because we were “stars.” What we didn’t realize was that we were in for a big surprise.

As the upbeat opening music blared, wave after wave of young PUP performers entered the stage dressed in colorful costumes. Jumping, singing, dancing and smiling joyously throughout their performance, their infectious energy lit up the stage and electrified the ecstatic audience. We were all in awe! I had never seen any performance as beautiful and engaging as theirs. The choral group was dynamite while the folk dancers got everybody stomping in their feet. And the “Banda Kawayan’s” performance was - Wow, out of this world!

While our performance that day supported the PUP robotics team’s competition in Singapore as well as the performer’s new costumes, in reality they really didn’t need us. They made this performance a success all by themselves. Truly, one should not judge a book by its cover. And as this experience showed us, great talent can be found everywhere - in elite universities, in posh financial districts, in a poor man’s hovel deep in the slums of Manila…or even in the cheapest university in Asia.

Sierra Jamir

Rondalla Rocks - Rocking Eve 2014

2014-01-02T22:17:00.001-05:00

Where is everyone? Oh right...they're behind me dancing.

Posing after dancing and playing games for several hours

Hey PinoyJeep Bloggers,

Every year, Iskwelahang Pilipino hosts a Christmas party including performances by all grade levels and the rondalla, a yankee swap, and of course, lots-n-lotsa food. Unfortunately, due to the storm the night before, it was cancelled...Nonetheless, due to a little love'n care from Tita Janeth, we got our party.

IP parents and students posing for a picture with the Castro family

On Sunday, December 29th, Tita Janeth (mother of Janrey) and her family hosted a party to celebrate the IP Rondalla Tour, since we didn't have the opportunity to hold the event earlier. While the party started off with only a few people trickling in (we're supposed to start at 6:00 p.m., but hint, hint...Filipino time), by around 7 o'clock, the dance floor was crowded with kids and parents dancing to Shakira, Nikki Minaj, Katy Perry and a whole bunch of new and old artists. Even the Lantin's, our friends from Virginia who brought their daughter for graduate school in Boston, took some time off to join our party.

Tita Janeth (center) with other IP parents enjoying the party

The future of IP Rondalla rests in these brave men...who are apparently pointing at something in the ceiling.

If you've ever heard of "Just Dance," a game for the Wii that lets you copy the dancer's moves on the screen so you too can dance like Psy. If you haven't, I highly recommend renting it. Oh my! We all got a good workout from this game. Even the parents had fun gettin' jiggy with it. Of course, there's also the traditional Filipino line dance routine mixed with Zumba. We were all sweating.

Happy Birthday from the IP Rondalla members!

Besides all of the dancing, did I mention the food? There was a flotilla of food ranging from boxes and boxes of pizza, macaroni and pasta together with your traditional menudo, Christmas ham, pancit, lumpia, "Filipino spaghetti" and arroz caldo. The desserts were divine. There were French macaroons, dark and white chocolate fondue, cassava, ubi cake, and puto. Of course, as tradition dictates, we took a few left-over dishes home afterwards. We also celebrated Bo and Emma's birthday with two delicious ice cream cakes! Happy Birthday, girls!

Getting ready for the pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters game.

Nathan adds a twist to the "Pepsi and Coke" game

After several rounds of dancing, we took intermittent breaks to check our raffle tickets and to play a few parlor games. The raffle items were pretty typical and atypical, meaning we had prizes like chocolate, perfume, a Pepsi water jug and make-up kit, but also cooking mittens, pancit noodles, packs of Mama Sita and Banana ketchup, and even a laser hair remover! We all know who wanted that hair remover...and who staked the Pepsi water jug.

Group picture with the parents! Say "Cheese"!

Then, we played a few games like "Pepsi and Coke" in which pairs have to run to one side of the room and one has to sit on the other partner's lap before everyone else. We also played musical chairs (I got kicked out on the third to last round) and the pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters game, which involves moving your hips around depending on which coin the leader calls.

The night ended close to 11pm, yet all of us were still in the mood for more dancing, eating, raffles and games. We all had the experience of our lives. Honestly, what I think this was the best Filipino party all year, and we were definitely sad that it would be our last meeting as an IP family before the start of the new year.

On our three-hour drive home to Connecticut where I currently live, all my family talked about was how great the night's party went. We arrived home close to 2:30 in the morning sleepy and exhausted but in good spirits.

Next time, let's go camping!
Thank you Tita Janeth. This was AWESOME!

Smile, everyone! Didn't you just have the time of your life? I sure did!

Sierra Jamir

Good Bye 2O13 and Welcome 2O14!

2014-01-01T23:00:00.000-05:00

Hey PinoyJeep Followers!

A very quick slideshow done by Google...I wish it would go slower. Anyway, it's suppose to sum up
the whole year. Better than nothing!

2013 will forever be known for government shutdown, Miley Cyrus' Wrecking Ball, Nelson Mandela, Pork Barrel Scam, earthquake in Bohol and Cebu, and unfortunately typhoon Haiyan. But 2013 will never be forgotten for its new Pope, iPad Air, Martians (now we know they existed!), Selfie....and who can forget, the IP Rondalla tour to the Philippines!

My finger painting of a girl playing the Banduria

It's been a heck-of-a-year, but nonetheless we made it!

Goodbye to 2013 and Welcome 2014!

Happy New Year, everyone!

From your PinoyJeep Bloggers

Merry Christmas! Maligayang Pasko!

2013-12-25T20:35:00.000-05:00

Hello PinoyJeep Followers,

As you know, we got the idea to start PinoyJeep for the IP Rondalla Tour to the Philippines that happened a few months ago. While the tour is long over, we're still holding strong and posting along! And so on Christmas day, we'd especially like to thank you for the support you've given us throughout these few months to even make it this far. I know I've repeated myself several times this year, but honestly, we wouldn't be here without you!

So to share our love for all of you on Christmas day, here are a few photos I've been meaning to post for a while now (but of course due to college apps, school work, and just the mere volume of work I have at the moment, I've been a little behind...as always). I would have also loved to share with you pictures of me pigging out on Christmas paella, caldereta, and glazed ham, and singing (quite badly) to a few OPM songs, but I think it's best none of you see anything too embarrassing at the moment, especially while our stomachs are still trying to digest everything we've seen today. Instead, here are pictures I know you'll enjoy of a familiar school we all know halfway around the world... Merry Christmas and Maligayang Pasko!

Bayan-Bayanan Elementary School (BBES)

Many donations have been made to make the Drum & Lyre band a successful activity for the Aeta students of BBES. Pictures is one girl who received a lyre from a generous donor.

Sheryl Garcia (center) holding her lyre and
standing next to Teacher Raffy and her mother, Shirley Garcia

Sheryl Garcia, the unat aeta who was the recipient of the lyre donated by the
Fadrigalan family

The tree planting was suppose to be part of the activities of the IP Rondalla during our visit on July 12, 2013, which was cancelled due to lack of time and rain. Fortunately, a few of us returned to the school on July 20, 2013 to complete the tree planting activity in behalf of the IP Rondalla. As of December 19th (when these pictures were taken), they look pretty healthy. Shirley Garcia, the mother of Sheryl (recipient of the lyre given by the Fadrigalan family) cleans the area of weeds. Unfortunately the soil is dry due to lack of rain. Teacher Raffy has asked his students to help clean the area regularly.

Thank you to BKP-NY's kind donation of books which the BBES received sometime during the last week of November. Two balikbayan boxes arrived filled to the brim with children's books!

Christmas Party December 19, 2013

Pictured are the Aeta children and parents of MMQ Aeta Primary School in Mt. Terranus receiving gifts. There are 16 primary students but not all of them came down from the mountain.

These photos are some of the BBES students housed at Bahay Kalinga managed by VEST Foundation (Comm. Evelyn). This is the Aeta children's half-way home from Mt. Terranus. These pictures were taken while the kids were having breakfast (egg and tuyo) before attending the Christmas Program.

Let the party begin!

The teachers and friends of BBES setting up for the Christmas party

The 1st grade students holding up their pointer fingers

The grade four students holding up four fingers

The children in the feeding program

Take a look at the jar to the left! I think I see some familiar rondalla faces on that picture, if you know what I mean!

Sierra Jamir