Loboc Riverwatch earns 2013 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence

Wake-uppers:

Seen: Direk Maryo J. De los Reyes, cast and crew are in Anda, Bohol. Direk Maryo has chosen Anda for his film entry Bamboo Flowers in the forthcoming “Sining Pambansa Film Festival, All-Masters Edition” this September 2013 and hopefully be part of the International Children’s Film Festival. The film will also feature Abatan River, Kawasan Falls of Balilihan, Catigbian’s adventure site, Corella and Loboc Tarsier’s Sanctuary, Chocolate Hills of Carmen, Alicia Bamboo Ensemble and Panglao Island.

Scene: From re-elected 3rd district Congressman Art Yap: Elections always bring out the best and worst in us. This year's elections was no exception. But in the end, no lies nor propaganda, no threat nor violence, no vice nor money can stand against the truth of the people's will. For one day in three years,  the people get to judge their public officials. The people have spoken. Let us honor the people by graciously accepting their choices. Congratulations to all the winning candidates, thank you for all the courageous  and steadfast support to my campaign and my gratitude to the Lord Almighty. God bless our incoming term and God bless Bohol.

Scene: The mass resignation of the staff of the Tubigon Tourism Culture Arts and Heritage Office, organizer of Anyag sa Tubigon, Tanda Festival Street Dancing and Sambunot sa Awit when incumbent Mayor  William Jao lost to mayor-elect Marlon Amila. Some sectors call it sour-graping, however, according to VRS, the resignation was to give the new administration a free hand in choosing his staff who will run his programs for the town.

Seen:  Spotted in Bohol is erstwhile commissioner of the National Youth Commission Benjie Oliva. If you think Benjie is missing in action, he is busy traveling the country as personal assistant of Agriculture Sec. Proceso Alcala.

Scene: Thank you to all my family and friends for the overwhelming birthday wishes and cheer yesterday (May 25). I thank you many times over for all the birthday greetings! This very special message from a friend: The way of all peace is to scale the mountain of self. Loving others makes the climb down easier. We see all things darkly until love lights the lamp of the soul.
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Loboc Riverwatch receives 2013 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence

Courtesy: Tripadvisor

Loboc Riverwatch has received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award. The accolade, which honors hospitality excellence, is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on TripAdvisor, and is extended to qualifying businesses worldwide. Only the top-performing 10 percent of businesses listed on TripAdvisor receive this prestigious award.

"The Loboc Riverwatch Floating Resto is honored to be recognized with TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence," said Tessie Labunog-Sumampong. "We strive to offer our customers a memorable dining experience, and this accolade is evidence that our hard work is translating into positive reviews on TripAdvisor."

The Loboc Riverwatch, the Floating Resto to the Stars, is the only restaurant in Bohol which offers authentic Boholano cuisine.

"The Certificate of Excellence award provides top performing establishments around the world the recognition they deserve, based on feedback from those who matter most – their customers," said Christine Petersen, president of TripAdvisor for Business.

To qualify for a Certificate of Excellence, businesses must maintain an overall rating of four or higher, out of a possible five, as reviewed by travelers on TripAdvisor, and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months. Additional criteria include the volume of reviews received within the last 12 months.

On the other hand,  Amorita Resort has earned yet another distinction as a winner of the TripAdvisor 2013 Traveler’s Choice Award, ranking eighth among the Top 25 Hotels in the Philippines.

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GMA Kapuso gives away 2,000 school bags to Bohol
Education, a basic children’s right, comes with a challenge especially in the country’s most desolate areas. Fortunately, GMA Kapuso Foundation, the socio-civic arm of the GMA Network, is reaching out to far-flung communities to touch more Filipino lives.

Last week, I accompanied Amabelle Rusiana,  the regional coordinator of GMA Kapuso Foundation and the DepED people, for the distribution of GMA Kapuso Foundation's bags and school supplies under its project “Unang Hakbang sa Kinabukasan (First Step towards the Future)".

Some 2,000 children in Grade 1 levels in five district schools of Bohol (Baclayon, Albur, Loay, Lila and Dimiao) have recently received school supplies from GMA Kapuso Foundation.

The children received a package of school supplies packed in a knapsack that contains  five notebooks, two pencils, two pad papers, a sharpener, and a box of crayon.

Evident with the loud expressions of “Thank you” to GMA Kapuso, the children including their parents and the local school authorities were grateful for the initiative hoping that this will encourage the kids to value and pursue education, amidst poverty, to improve their lives.

The company and its foundation will continue to help ensure that many of the Philippines’ next generation achieve a bright future.

***
Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter /Facebook.

And the winners and losers are...

Martin Slisans Courtesy: Facebook

Wake-upper:
Scene: Martin Slisans, a Latvian national swims from Bohol to Cebu to promote RP tourism.

"This is a kind of meditation for myself and the most important thing is to promote the Philippines," said Slisans.

Slisans, 36, started swimming at around 1 a.m. from Catagbacan, Loon and reached Argao, Cebu at around 2 p.m. last Saturday, May 18. The long distance swimming was almost 30 kilometers.
Slisans visited the Philippines in 2009 and settled in Moalboal after falling in love with the beautiful countryside town.

In 2010, he swam 22 kilometers from Libertad, Negros Oriental to Moalboal.

 

Long distance swimming from Bohol to Cebu Photo: Leo Udtohan

***
From Dr. Abe Lim: I congratulate Kag. Baba Yap, the next mayor of Tagbilaran for a job well done. The election campaign offered me another view of Tagbilaran. I urge my friends and followers to support Mayor Baba's plans and services to the people of Tagbilaran."I fought a good fight. I finished the race. I keep my faith." May God bless us all.
 
From Atty. Dodong Gonzaga:  The people of Tagbilaran have spoken by casting their votes yesterday. I wish to express my heartfelt thanks to my followers, leaders, slate, supporters and to those who believe in my cause. God may have other plans for me in serving my fellow Tagbilaranons. Congratulations to Vice- mayor Jose Antonio Veloso, Kag Alberta Betty Co Torralba and Atty Aleckoy Lim for the victory.

From 2nd District Congressman-elect Erico Aristotle Aumentado: First of all I thank the Lord for the graces He gave to me and my family. I thank everyone for all of your undying support and for putting your trust by casting your votes on me yesterday. I appreciate all efforts contributed for the success of this new journey I now face. This venture I choose is also my dream to follow my father’s footsteps and continue his legacy. And to Aumentado family, thank you for standing by me all this time, the same way how you stood by Papa Erico. Mabuhi ang Segundo Distrito!

From Tagbilaran City Mayor-elect John Geesnell "Baba" Yap: My profound and heartfelt sense of gratitude to everyone! Your trust and confidence in my leadership will be my undying zeal and commitment to serve Tagbilaran to the best of my ability. Together, we can make our dreams come true! Together, we can make our beloved city great and prosperous! Thank you very much! I am enthusiastic that this triumph will be the catalyst of change in governance that will ensure that all the basic services will be delivered to each and every citizen! Public office is not only of public trust, it is foremost of PUBLIC SERVICE! To all Tagbilaranons, with confidence I can say; "The best has just begun!" Thank you very much and may God bless us all!

From Tagbilaran City Vice-Mayor- elect Jose Antonio Veloso:The elections have ended peacefully and the people made their choices. As a saying goes, "Vox populi, Vox dei". The voice of the people, is the voice of God. I have been so much blessed when i was put back as Vice-Mayor of the City of Tagbilaran. My dear brothers and sisters in Tagbilaran, thank you for the trust you have given me. Kini ang inyong amigo TOTO VELOSO.

***
Thank heavens that Mrs. Peregrina "Greenie" Cabagnot-Aumentado's 72nd birthday party cum Aris Aumentado's victory party last Thursday, May 16, at the Bohol Tropics, went smoothly and emotionally.

Greenie Aumentado

"With all combined efforts, it was a huge success! Maam felt so happy on her natal day because she never expected to be given attention," revealed Fatima Mapesos, former staff of the late Rep. Erico Aumentado, who emceed the program. " As per her speech, she was truly touched! We all began to feel emotional when she cried. Her birthday was another memorable memory to be treasured in the years to come."

As the guests (a mix of politicians and businessmen) shared a hearty meal, Aris thanked his supporters and well-wishers. Two days after he was officially proclaimed by the provincial board of canvassers (headed by lawyer Lionel Marco Castillano), he had already thanked his supporters on Facebook.

"I dream to follow my father’s footsteps and to continue his legacy," said Aris.

His wife, Maria Vanessa "VanVan" (nee Cadorna), is 2001 Miss Bohol Sandugo. VanVan met Aris when she crowned the 2002 Miss Bohol Sandugo (Cherry Mae Bacarro of Dimiao) with then Gov. Erico Aumentado and First Lady Peregrina Aumentado. Little did she know that Aris would become her hubby the following year.

2nd Congressman-elect Aris Aumentado with PBOC

The made-in-heaven romance led to the altar. Now, Aris and VanVan are parents of two boys, Erico Vann Lawrence and Erico Vann Lance, and more are sure to come…maybe after the elections?
Aris can enlist VanVan as his “secret weapon” like politicians with beautiful wives usually do, but he’d rather not because VanVan is so shy and so private. (She is like the tukbihon or  makahiya plant that slowly closes at the slightest touch.)

Jiselle Rae Aumentado Villamor also posted on Facebook: The victory of Congressman-elect Erico Aris Aumentado is not ours alone, the Aumentado family, but of the people in the second district of Bohol. Our patriarch, the late Cong. Erico Boyles Aumentado, had led an honorable path and had rendered a remarkable service. A new and greater challenge we face: to continue to live the ideals of a humble yet destined to be great Boholano. Congressman-elect Aris shall follow the exemplary trail the father of Bohol had set. Thank you all for the untiring support and prayers. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you so much for the trust. Again, we gain victory, us- the family, and you-Boholano people, our extended family since time immemorial. Daghan kaayong salamat! Basta Aumentado, segundo distrito padayon sa pag umento! Mabuhi ang Bohol!

Back to Maam Greenie, she doesn’t look 72. Nobody revealed what the secret behind her youthful look. (Fatima spilled the secret that Maam Greenie shuns worries! She refuses to be weighed down by problems. Instead, she keeps a pleasant disposition.)

The 2013 elections again validated Aumentado's power and might in the second district of Bohol.
As they said, the people have spoken. We pray that there's no more time for bitterness.

Here’s the (official) list of winners and losers ("showbiz"-connected and lovers of the arts and culture):

Congressmen: Rene Relampagos (first district), Aris Aumentado (second district) and Art Yap (uncontested, third district)
Governor: Edgar Chatto
Vice Governor: Conching Lim

Reelected Gov. Edgar Chatto

Board Members: Yul Lopez, Benjie Arcamo, Abel Damaerio (first disrict), Jaja Jumamoy, Gerry Garcia and Tommy Abapo (second district), Dioning Balite, Elpidio Jala, Godofreda Tirol, Boy Imboy (third district).

Mayors: Marlon Amila (Tubigon), Nila Montero (Panglao), Sample Tirol (Buenavista), Baba Yap (Tagbilaran City), NiÑo Rey Boniel (Bien Unido), Marnilou Ayuban (uncontested, Alicia), Sulpicio Yu, Jr (Calape), Moloy Apat (Dagohoy), Tita Gallentes (Garcia Hernandez), Roygie Jumamoy (Inabanga), Fortunato Abrenilla (Jagna), Casoy Camacho (Jetafe), Rina Salazar (uncontested, Lila), May Imboy (Loay), Lloyd Peter Lopez (Loon), Leoncio Evasco, Jr. (Maribojoc), Tessie Boyboy (Pres. Carlos P. Garcia Island) and Judith Cajes (Trinidad).

Balilihan Vice-Mayor-elect Pureza Chatto hugs her hubby re-elected Gov. Chatto

Vice-Mayors: Pureza Chatto (Balilihan), Pedro Budiongan, Jr (Carmen), Iven Lim (Cortes), Lulu Bongalos (Dauis), Wilson Pajo (Pilar) and Pedro Fuertes (Panglao).

Councilors: Ondo Montero (Panglao), Ariel Lungay (Catigbian), Jono Jumamoy (Inabanga), Rochelle Brigitte Imboy (Loay), Crispina Vergara (Mabini), Allan Tinaja (San Isidro) and Adam Jala, Oscar Glovasa, Jojo Bompat and Aleckoy Lim (Tagbilaran City).

Congratulations to our media friends who won: Sendoy Guinguing (dyTR, Baclayon councilor) and Gerry Pabe (dyRD, Tagbilaran City councilor). Better luck next time to our media friends: Tibbs Bullecer (for Loay Mayor, dyRD), Dodong Libatona (for Balilihan councilor, dyTR), Danny Reyes (for Panglao councilor, dyRD), Peddie Bolanio (for Tagbilaran City councilor, dyRD) and Frony Narisma (for Baclayon councilor, Bohol Sunday Post).

See you next time, losers:  Egen Salibay (for Albur councilor), Carmen Gatal (for Baclayon councilor), Jojo Baritua (for Baclayon councilor),  Azon Galbreath (Bilar Mayor), Jimmy Jimenez and Victor Migrino( for Dauis Mayor),  Dominic Villafuerte (for Candijay councilor),  Arlene Palgan (for Carmen Vice Mayor), Boy Ancog (for Carmen councilor), Vito Rapal (for Corella Mayor), Apolinaria Balistoy (for Cortes Vice Mayor), Dan  Montero (for Cortes Mayor), Eksam LLoren (for Jagna Mayor), Hilario Ayuban (for Loay councilor), Luisito Digal (for Loboc Mayor), Nilo Sarigumba (for Loboc Vice Mayor), Malou Sombrio (for Loon councilor), Sancho Bernales (for Mabini Mayor), Dodong Veloso (for Maribojoc Mayor), Benedicto Alcala and Vangie Lazaro (for Panglao Mayor), Walter Sultan (for Panglao Vice Mayor), Bebeth Dinorog (for San Isidro councilor),Kit Oppus and Nuevas Tirol-Montes (for Tagbilaran City Vice Mayor), Bryan Gaviola, Johnny Enerio and Gibyrlu Lumayag (for Tagbilaran City councilor), Rammel Cagulada and Romy Sales (for Valencia councilor), Che Toribio delos Reyes and Amay Bisaya (for Bohol Governor),Sharleen Lim and Joseph Sevilla (for Bohol Vice Governor), Dan Lim (for Congressman, first district),  Ondoy Cajes (for Congressman, second district), Handel Lagunay and Arlene Karaan (for first district board members);  and Mafe Camacho and  Molex Cepedoza (for second district board members).

Take a bow, Lionel Marco Castillano, Macario Delusa, Annie Maglahus, Malou Cempron, Juvenal Beniga, Priming Ontong, et al (who were getting five hours of sleep during election), our teachers, police and army men...and to Nang Besing Rulona, the ever San Pedro at the SP Session Hall! Clap! Clap! Clap!

***
Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter /Facebook.

Dapat Tama!

Alam natin ang tama, ba't di natin ginagawa?

Paulit-ulit na lang na ito ang bagong simula.

Simula nang simula bakit walang natatapos?

Ilang beses nangako ilang beses napako.

'Pag tayo'y nagsama-sama lahat ay malalampasan

May mas maayos na bukas para sa ating mga anak.

Ang unang hakbang ay piliin ang tamang nakatatak

na pangalan sa balota.

 

Kaya dapat tama!

 

-From GMA News and Public Affairs “Dapat Tama” advocacy

 

Tomorrow, you will decide who will run this province for the next three years. Your vote is your dignity.

 

Dapat tama! How can we choose right leaders?

 

Gloc 9 Courtesy: GMA News

Here are the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting or PPRCV’s 10 Commandments for Responsible Voting (and reminders that vote buying is an evil act from Jagna Movement for Good Governance or JaMGGo):

 

1. Vote according to the dictates of your conscience.

 

2. Respect the decision of others in choosing their candidates.

 

3. Seek to know the moral integrity, capabilities, and other personal qualities of the candidates you will vote for.

 

4. Strive to understand the issues, platform, and programs of candidates and parties campaigning for your vote.

 

5. Do not sell your vote.

 

6. Do not vote for candidates using guns, goons, gold, and glitter.

 

7. Do not vote for candidates tainted with graft and corruption.

 

8. Do not vote for candidates simply because of “utang na loob” (debt of gratitude), popularity, good looks, or “pakikisama” (peer pressure).

 

9. Do not vote for candidates living an immoral life.

 

10. Always put the welfare of the country as top priority in choosing the candidate you will vote for.

 

***

It goes without saying that Mother's Day is one of our favorite days of the year. Year after year mothers give us so many beautiful reasons to be thankful they’re our mothers. Today, we honor mothers everywhere for their sacrifices, for making us laugh, for the lessons they impart, and for their unconditional love.

 

Proverbs 31:28 says, “Her children arise up and call her blessed.”

We asked our friends to tell us: What did your mom teach you?

 

Some of our friends asked simply ignored the question. Here are those who shared short of inspiring, from sweet to funny to tear-jerking to wise responses in our celebration of motherly wisdom:

 

Reigh Monreal: I can’t remember many. My Nanay died when I was six and my younger siblings were four and one. From stories I learned she was thrifty, hardworking and good at sewing by hand. She even made me a school bag because she didn’t like that I use a Guitar cellophane bag that some of my classmates were using. The bag lasted for a couple of years. Today, I hand-sew buttons on my shirts, hems on my pants, and any torn part of my clothing. Maybe I got this “talent” from my Nanay. I was also a wise and practical spender when I was still a struggling scholar at the Visayas State University.

 

Berly Elizabeth Lupot: My mom taught me that success is sweeter when wrapped with humility.

 

EJ Relampagos: My mom has taught us the unconditional kind of love...whatever me and my siblings have become now is the result of that love we have enjoyed since we were conceptualized by our parents.

 

Benjie Oliva: She taught me to live a simple life, to stay humble, to have a mission in life and to love God above all things.

 

Adri Anne Tirol Montes- Espanola: My mom taught me how to be strong no matter what life brings you, to find joy in every circumstance, and to never give up. She is the family`s source of strength.

 

DonDon Suganob: Always be humble whatever life will bring you, pray and trust everything to God.

 

Tessie Labunog-Sumampong: My Mama taught me to help other people and to love and care for each other. I’m a very generous person gyud hehehehe basta naa lang.

 

Judith Uy-Sumatra: My mom taught me that there are only two people in the world: the oppressor and the oppressed. One thing I learned from her is never to surrender, to fight till your last breath.

 

Jo Menorias: My mom taught us to take good care of our names as well as reputation even if we are not rich.

 

Fiel Angel Araoarao-Gabin: Born into a family who had less in life, Mama Wincie - through her actions, personal conviction and dedication - has taught my siblings Ondoy, Baby, Coeli and I, even my children, nieces and nephews that honest hard work pays off, that it is better to give than to receive (especially where sharing one’s talents is concerned), and that, above all, our strong faith in God makes us conquer our fears and achieve the impossible... A true personification of self-sacrifice and compassion, Mama Wincie’s life is a living testament of her ideals.

 

Katrina Schoof-Chu: Doing the household chores, even if you have maids - that’s how I learned to wash and iron clothes, do the dishes and most especially, clean the house. My mother said that, when married, I have to make sure I take care of my husband, see to it that he’s presentable - no holes on the socks or shirts - because it will always reflect on the kind of wife I am. My mom is a very generous person, so I think I got that trait from her.

 

Malou Cempron: My mom taught me to be God fearing and sensible at all times.

 

Chandrina Elluiska Schreurs: My mom taught me to become a better person and feel what’s inside my heart, and most of all when I stumble, try to find ways to be back and raise your head high that you have undergone such endeavor.

 

Leslie Domapias-Ramirez: The value of spiritual strength in love, family life and profession.

 

Kit Oppus: How to stand for what one believes in!

 

Ariel Fullido: To fear God, and always look on the brighter side of life!

 

Reuben Gulle: My mom taught me the values of giving without expecting something in return. She instilled in me that by giving, the windows of heaven will open, and pour the blessings on me.

 

Toto Veloso: To always do what is right, so there will never be any regret for whatever you do. This is what my beloved mom taught me.

 

Tracy Remolador Torres: My mom taught me to stop comparing myself to others because I will have my own race. She taught me to be generous and patient.

 

Blair Panong: She was always telling me when I was a child that when I go out into the world - I have watch out for traffic. We have to hold hands. We have to stick together.

 

Aris Aumentado: Good manners and right conduct.

 

Nikko Sereno: My mom taught me the value of hardwork and to never take my health for granted.

 

Leah Tirol-Magno: My Mama taught me a lot of great things. One of those is the love for cooking and baking. Now, I cook and bake for my own family and for others.

 

Clarlaine Falcon Radoc: To follow what my heart desires and being true to myself. All I need to remember is that I should be responsible in everything that I do with mature obedience, trust and faith in God. She never really fails to inspire me.

 

God bless all the mothers, all across the world.                               

 

***

Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter /Facebook.

Tagbi’s Saulog beat

Wake-uppers:

Scene: The researchers conducted a survey involving students from selected public and private high schools in Tagbilaran City. Out of 1300 respondents mainly students who regularly ride tricycles as a means of transportation in going to school, 83% answered that they have often been charged with fares higher than the mandated tricycle fare, with respect to the distance of their flag-down location to their school, meaning, overpricing of fares is a common experience for high school students in the City. Project Citizen, an international program being implemented in sixty (60) countries committed to active citizenship, is being implemented by PCCED, a non-government organization which promotes good citizenship and participatory democracy through education. The TCSHS group were chaperoned by Geraldine Doron, TCSHS Araling Panlipunan teacher, and Marina Salamanca, Education Program Supervisor of the Tagbilaran City Schools Division.

 

Scene: There were no international participants in the 2nd Dragon Boat Competition-First Bohol Challenge. Spotted during the event was Sev Lubigan, a corporate trainer and training coordinator of the Asian Gaming Academy. He is also a freelance fitness personal trainer.

 

Seen: Spotted in Bohol last week was Kapamilya Star Melissa Ricks. She visited Bohol Bee Farm, Tarsier Botanika and other beauty spots. She also went diving in Balicasag Island.

 

 

***

Tagbilaran City, the city of friendship, was unmistakably the top destination over the weekdays.

 

St. Joseph Cathedral

After lunch at The Buzz Cafe at Galleria Luisa along Gallares Street, Tagbilaran City, my nephew Jhelmar Jala and I went to BQ Mall to buy some cranberry juice. That’s where we watched and took pictures of the first Saulog Festival, a cultural event in honor of Saint Joseph the Worker, the City’s patron saint, featuring the contingents and floats (carrying Kapuso star Angelo Ilagan of Munting Heredera fame and Ramp Models Association of Bohol or RMAB models). Highlights include a dance competition among groups from the city’s different barangays in elaborate costumes, all of them honoring Señor San Jose.

 

Even under the scorching heat of the sun, locals and visitors alike, including award-winning Boholano director Maryo J. delos Reyes (who told me that he has an upcoming movie “Bamboo Flowers” to be filmed in Anda, Alicia and Maribojoc on May 15-30), lined up the streets to get a view of what was going on.

 

Bool

It took the uncommon streetdancing route from the Old City Hall, Gallares Street, B. Inting Street, CPG Avenue, J.S. Torralba Street, E. Sarmiento Street, then to the long stretch of J.A. Clarin Street leading to the Tagbilaran City Hall where the ritual showcase took place. At least, it was something “new” for the people of Bohol.

 

The first-ever “Saulog Tagbilaran” was held under the auspices of the City Government of Tagbilaran (through the City Council for Culture and Arts) and its partner, the Cathedral  Parish of Saint Joseph, with the support of the participating barangays of Bool, Booy, Cabawan, Cogon, Manga, Mansasa, Poblacion 1, Poblacion II, and Ubujan. Barangay Manga got five of the nine special awards, followed by Cogon with three and Bool with one.

 

Manga

Cebu’s Ricky Ballesteros, Sinulog Foundation, Inc. executive director, along with Ormoc’s Glenn Aparis, Tubigon’s Dennis Walton Balbero, Cathedral Parish of Saint Joseph the Worker’s Msgr. Jeffrey Malanog and City Planning and Development Coordinator and City Council for Culture and Arts chair Paterna Ruiz composed the panel of judges.

 

Our good-friend, the ever-generous US-based Boholano socialite Mikey Gatal of mikeygatal.com, sponsored the 40 white-collared T-shirts with prints used by the working committees during the event. Part of the streetdancing committee were Fiel Angeli  Araoarao-Gabin, Butch Bernas,  Edison Gumapac, Romel Sapid, Jovenal Edquilag, Antonette Bongalos, William Aranilla and Monica Boyboy.

 

Cogon

Oh, what a day when I met some friends— Emerson Pinos, Alexis Cadeliña and Liza Macalandag — you know it was comforting to see old friends.

 

After the dance showdown, we had our pamiesta. Burp! Burp! (That’s what I like during the Merry Month of May, everyone is happy.)

 

Hopefully, Saulog will continue to become a well-sustained cultural activity of Tagbilaran, considering that Tagbilaran’s May 1 fiesta is the opening salvo of the month-long fiesta celebration in Bohol.

 

Take a bow, Maam Pat! Take a bow, Fiel!

 

***

Lots of people in Tagbilaran ride bikes for lots of different reasons. It is widely acknowledged that cycling is one of the best ways for people to achieve good health and fitness.

 

It was Nikki Quintia who convinced me to join them in their rides for, you know, health reasons.  

 

“Biking is great for your health, good for the environment and can save you money,” said Nikki.  “It can be done by people of all ages.”

 

Cyclists are a diverse group but Nikki and her hubby Mike are members of the group “Cute 16 Folders” who are using folding bikes, very small bikes that are super cute (Members are also cuties!).

 

Folding bikes come in an increasingly wide variety of shapes, sizes, weights, and “fold-abilities.” In my visit to Nikki’s home at Airport, she showed me her collections of folding bikes.

 

Nikki explained that folders are efficient, economical, healthy, ecological, fashionable and fun transportation.

 

“The difference between a folding bike and a standard bike is that folders are easier to transport and store, said Nikki. “The modern folder is lightweight, versatile and easy to use.”

 

“Cute 16 Folders” members have nightly rides every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. For short ride, they have the Airport Road to Manga, Airport to Dauis and Airport to Baclayon.  For long ride, they have the Airport to Cortes, Airport to Panglao and Airport to Loboc.

 

Last November 30, 2012 (Bonifacio Day), the Cute 16 Folders held the "1st Tagbilaran City Folding Bikes Unity Ride” organized by the "Cute 16 Folders" under the leadership of hot couple Nikki and Mike Quintia and Jake Gregorio.

 

Folding bikers from the entire city gathered together for the said event that brought more friendship and camaraderie.

 

The event was participated in by different bike clubs and bike enthusiasts around the city, unexpectedly it reached to about 100 plus bikers. It was sponsored by Mikey Gatal (OMG). OMG shirts were worn by the bikers from the starting point at CPG North Avenue to Baclayon, then a stopped-over in Dauis Bridge where prizes were drawn and given to the lucky winners, then back to Plaza Rizal for the finale group picture taking.

 

Like “Cute 16 Folders” on Facebook to know more of their events.

 

***

Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter /Facebook.

Tessie’s sumptuous feast of traditional Boholano cuisine

Wake-uppers:

Scene: The 14 contingents for the 2nd Cobra International Dragon Boat Competition in Dauis, Bohol.

 

Seen: Spotted in Bohol last week was Journey’s lead singer Arnel Pineda. Now sporting short hair, Arnel was mobbed by fans at the Loboc River.

 

Scene: From Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin, City Information Officer, on Saulog festival: The City Government of Tagbilaran and the Cathedral Parish of Saint Joseph the Worker are embarking on collaborative efforts for this year’s celebration of the feast of Saint Joseph the Worker on May 1 dubbed “Pit Senor San Jose! Viva San Jose! Viva Tagbilaran!” Starting last Monday, April 22 with the daily novena at 4:30 p.m., followed by a holy mass at 5:30 p.m.  at the Cathedral and the nightly activities at 7:30 p.m. at the Tagbilaran Port, the activities are aimed at reviving, preserving and promoting the city’s significant tradition and unique cultural heritage, in cognizance with Executive Order No. 2 Series of 2013 which created the City Council for Culture and the Arts.

 

On April 29, from 2 to 6 p.m., the statues of Saint Joseph, Mother Mary and Santo Nino comprising the Holy Family will be featured during the fluvial procession from Manga Port to Sitio Ubos, Poblacion I.

 

On April 30, the first-ever “Saulog Tagbilaran,” a religion-based cultural activity, bringing to the fore the life of Saint Joseph, the City’s patron saint, as a loving father and devoted worker and the local devotees’ way of paying homage and thanksgiving. The streetdancing also intends to drumbeat the 250th anniversary of the Cathedral Parish of Saint Joseph the Worker in 2017. The 9 contingents - Bool, Booy, Cabawan, Cogon, Manga, Mansasa, Poblacion I, Poblacion 2 and Ubujan - shall assemble along the Old City Hall at 12 noon. The streetdancing shall kick off at 1:00 p.m., turning left at C. Gallares Street, turning right at B. Inting Street, proceeding right to CPG Avenue along City Square, turning right at J.S. Torralba near Plaza Rizal, making a left turn at E. Sarmiento fronting the Cathedral, turning left at J. A. Clarin Street leading towards the Tagbilaran City Hall Compound.

 

Hapit na jud ang fiesta sa Tagbilaran (May 1), the opening salvo of the month-long fiesta season of Bohol.

 

Scene: From erstwhile Tubigon’s Queen of All Media Raymund Delgado: Anyag 2008 Clarice Radoc has a very huge chance of winning the crown however her tight schedule couldnt warrant the requirements and demands of joining a provincial pageant. As of Anyag 2011 Lori Geisha Cabrera , we are still subjecting her to some further enhancing trainings that would further bring out the best in her and mold her to become more competitive in the provincial level. Since the previous year when I was connected with the University of San Jose Recoletos as a full time professor , I only focus on handling one committee in Anyag and that is the Committee on Seminars, Trainings and Workshops to bring out the best in all our candidates and reserve beauty queens and I do see the value of a good education as a foundation for success in any endeavors. Even, Miss Teen Bohol 2012 Thea Rizaldo was molded by the A-List Beauty and Personality Academy, which is the basic education arm of the Anyag sa Tubigon.

 

Until this present moment in time, we at Anyag envisions of producing globally competitive and empowered beauty queens which would not only excel in the municipal level but also at the national and international levels. Though I’m no longer connected with the Local Government Unit of Tubigon I still take an active role and part in the committee since I do see that this is my way of giving back to the community who gave me my identity as a Tubignon.

 

(Note: The Anyag sa Tubigon 2013 is on May 10 with special guest Daniel Padilla. Tickets are at Php300 (Blue), Php500 (Orange) and Php 1,000 (Fuschia). Visit or call Tubigon Tourism Office at (038) 508-8496.)

 

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The flamboyant chef and food connoisseur Anthony Bourdain of No Reservations food tripping in America made me relish in my head those gustatory adventures I went through vacationing in the US.

 

Like music, food does bring people together. My bonding moments with friends in the US revolve around anything edible-- that there are plenty to eat and thank God for-- and you can’t feel the economy is down.

 

Here’s the tip: To enjoy your stay in the land of milk and honey that is America, never convert. I stopped whining about how I have to shell out $2 for a bottle of cranberry juice or Hershey’s chocolate when I can get it here for a reasonable price.

 

Food tripping in the US. Yours truly with (clockwise) Lorenzo and Richel Galaura, Mikey and his Thai friend Kevin and Alot and Babat Bagotchay.

The King’s Buffet in Hollywood was the first restaurant I had bonding moment with a Boholano family. Lorenzo Galaura (from Jagna town), his wife Richel and daughter Loraine invited me for a dinner. Lorenzo is a nurse and a tennis enthusiast. At 13, Loraine, who stands 5”5”, is an A+ student in a private school in LA and a potential beauty queen in the future. After dinner, the Galaura family brought me to The Grove for another bonding moment.

 

My real bonding with US-based Boholano socialite Mikey Gatal was the Thai (Thai Restaurant in Hollywood) and Korean (Haus of Desserts) cuisines. Since Mikey has a Thai friend, he loves to introduce Thai food that when TV/concert-producer Amy Almirol had to see us, we ended at the Thai restaurant in downtown LA).

 

My bonding with RN and make-up artist Rey Reformina was the Chinese cuisine. He brought me to Regent Chinese restaurant near the famous Union Station.

 

My bonding food with Jocelyn Oppus, Babat Malacay and Jinky Jane Labrador were Burger King, Jollibee, McDonalds and The Pantry. When hunger strikes you on the road, turn to Jollibee Drive Thru.

 

The send-off dinner with Miss BodyShots International 2013 Janelle Logrono, Lorenzo and Richel Galaura, Alot and Babat Bagotchay, Mikey and Rey was held at the at the Ganda Thai Restaurant.

 

After my vacation, I’m gaining weight. I need to go on a diet…so I thought…   

 

As promised, we showed up with “empty stomachs” early Tuesday noon at Loboc Riverwatch (the “Floating Resto to the Stars,” you will know why when you will visit their booth at the Loboc River Complex) of Tessie Labunog-Sumampong. “We” included Liza Macalandag of Lifestyle Bohol, my nephew Jhelmar Jala and yours truly.

 

The next time you visit the famous Loboc River (the River of Life), you can indulge yourself in authentic Boholano cuisine at the Loboc Riverwatch. It is the only floating restaurant which offers a wide array of mouth-watering traditional Boholano cuisine.  

 

As most people must know by now, years ago Tessie was hired to manage a floating restaurant. When she was given the opportunity to run her own floating restaurant, Tessie’s imagination was activated. Voila, a few weeks later she put up her own floating restaurant, the Loboc Riverwatch.

 

Tessie and her Loboc Riverwatch team cooked “borrowed” foods. They served the same menu with other floating restaurants. So, Tessie gave it a try last April when guests started asking for Boholano cuisine and it has been doing good business since then.

 

Tessie Labunog-Sumampong

“Most of the restaurants here do not serve the Boholano cuisine, it's time to show to them what we have,” said Tessie. “I am not afraid of change. I make it sure I am always open to new challenges and ready for discoveries.”

 

On Tessie’s menu: Pancit bisaya, piniritong manok, humbang baboy, kusahos,  lauja, manok hinalang, humbang nangka, ensaladang talong, guso salad, spicy crab, escabeche, inon-on, shrimps and crabs, puto cheese,  manga with uyap, native kakanin, cathy’s cuchinta, bibingka’s special, fruits in season and dol-dol.

 

And the visitors embraced her Bol-anon cuisine with gusto.

 

The classic Filipino pork dish, the humba (Visayan answer to adobo from the North) and the kusahos  de Loboc (sun dried carabeef strips) are the best sellers.

 

 “Whether cooking food or managing the floating restaurant, everything should be done with love and passion,” said Tessie.

 

Tessie’s Boholano cuisine at the floating restaurant is at P350 per person (just add 50 pesos for the municipal fee) and it is “eat all you can.” The price is worth it because she never scrimps on ingredients.

 

Try to imagine: They serve a buffet lunch. The musician is very entertaining. The river cruise is relaxing.

 

Riding at Loboc Riverwatch will also double as charity work for you since she helps public schools in Loboc (Bartolome Doria Elem. School and Tambis Elem. School in Calunasan Norte).

 

And so how do I rate that Boholano cuisine of Tessie’s Loboc Riverwatch? It’s, burp, filling.

 

The mouth-watering traditional Boholano cuisine at the Loboc Riverwatch Floating Restaurant, the Floating Resto to the Stars.

 

 

 

(Note: Loboc Riverwatch: Tel. No: (038) - 537–9460, (038) -537–9460; Mobile: +63918 - 510 – 4032/ +63917- 306–0010/+63917-382–2254; Email: lobocriverwatch@gmail.com)

 

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter /Facebook.

Daniel Padilla to heat up Anyag 2013

Wake-uppers:

Scene: Summer Gimik in Bohol: Anda, the beautiful.  When it comes to beautiful, breath-taking beaches, the town of Anda offers some of the most beautiful shores on earth. The Anda beaches boast miles upon miles of pristine, white, sandy shores and the gentle waters lap at your feet in a veritable kaleidoscope of electric blues and sparkling jades. Anda has also cave pools like Cabugnaw and Tibao. A trivia: Anda has appeared on ABS-CBN’s Panday in 2006.

 

A beach on paradise island in Anda, Bohol, Philippines

Scene: Months before the height of election campaign, this lady councilor's (who is seeking higher position) poll numbers routinely hovered in the stratosphere. Last week, with LC basking in the glow of victory in a short, her rating suddenly appeared very low. "Imagine Kuya Leo, wala jud siya ming-attend sa ilang pangampanya pila ka days. She was frustrated jud," says VRS. "She was thinking that head of the group junked her unya naay lain gidala. Pero giam-aman intawon siya." LC had to withdraw her candidacy but was advised not to make such “desperate” move.

 

Seen: Dr. Mary Grace Ochavillo-Uy (of J&N Dental Clinic, 2nd floor, City Pharmacy- CPG Avenue, Tagbilaran City, Tel. No: (038) 411-5317) and her family in South Korea for a holiday. They visited Nami Island, Chungju Lake, Everland, Korea Folk Village and other famous landmarks of South Korea.

 

Dra. Mary Grace Ochavillo-Uy and her family at the Land of the Morning Calm.

Scene: The 12 candidates who will compete in Bohol Queen International 2013 (back to back with a summer disco) on April 27 at Clarin Cultural and Sports Complex. The pageant is presented by LGBT Clarin. For ticket reservation, call 09103396686.

 

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Daniel Padilla will be the guest of honor in the 6^th edition of Anyag sa Tubigon on May 10.

 

This was confirmed by lawyer Julius Gregory Delgado who facilitated and arranged the contract signing in Manila. 

 

Considered as the hottest male teen star today on ABS-CBN, 17-year-old Daniel Padilla will serenade the 12 candidates of Anyag 2013.

Kapamilya star Daniel Padilla

Touted the “Justin Bieber of the Philippines,” Daniel will celebrate his 18^th birthday (which actually falls on April 26) with an upcoming concert on April 30 at the Big Dome.

 

Daniel started out in the industry roughly four years only, but 2012 proved to be his breakthrough year. He had a hit teleserye Princess & I which gave birth to his love team with Kathryn Bernardo, a multi-platinum debut album, and just recently, the movie Must Be...Love with Kathryn and a chart-topping single Nasa ‘Yo Na Ang Lahat which he interpreted for the Himig Handog P-Pop Love Songs 2013 competition.

 

(Note: For tickets to Anyag sa Tubigon, call Tubigon Tourism Office at Tel. No. 508-8496.)

 

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Here’s an interesting contribution from my Cebuano doctor-friend about the newly Pope Francis which she found on Facebook:

 

Recently, when he left his apartment at Domus Marta and went out into the hall, the Pope found a Swiss Guard standing at attention outside his door.

He asked him, “And what are you doing here? Were you awake all night?

“Yes,” the guard answered respectfully.

“Standing?”

“One of my colleagues gave me a break.”

“And you’re not tired?”

“It’s my duty Your Holiness, for Your safety.”

The Pope looked at him with kindness. He went back into his apartment and, after a few minutes, returned with a chair in his hand: “At least sit down and rest.”

Shocked, the Swiss Guard replied, “Forgive me, but I can’t! The rules don’t allow it.”

“The rules?”

“My captain, Your Holiness.”

“Oh, is that so? Well, I’m the Pope and I am asking you to sit down.”

So, between the rules and the Pope, the Swiss Guard, complete with his halberd, chose the chair. And then the Pope brought him some bread and jam for a snack, saying, “Buon appetito, brother.”

 

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter /Facebook.