Celebrating one of the Philippines’ national holidays this June 12 is the historical 122nd anniversary of the Philippine independence. However, unlike the previous years, and while the threat of the covid-19 crisis is rampant, it’s common knowledge that Filipinos will be celebrating it indoors, at the comfort of their homes.
With the softer General Community Quarantine (GCQ) guidelines in the NCR, it’s highly likely that many Filipinos would go out to celebrate the historical event (or at least in the areas with zero covid cases and less stringent protocols). For those Filipinos that would just stay home, do not fret, there are other ways that would make the celebration productive and enjoyable – that is binge-watching.
With more online transactions and activities during this pandemic, binge-watching some historical shows and films would make it worth your day and a well-spent Independence day. It’s also worth noting the importance of live streamings like Netflix, Iwant TV, and Iflix as it became the movie and show hub of the boring species. Of course, food is just one call away through Grab Food, Food Panda, Lalamove, and other home delivery services, that’s convenient!
We listed five (in no particular order) of the most recent Philippine Independence historical series and films that are worth your time, money, and effort. These series/films showcase the rich culture of the Philippines since the Pre-Spanish era, the courage of our ancestors, and the patriotism of our national heroes towards our freedom, our independence against all the countries that colonized our nation.
5 Series And Films That Will Capture The Heroism In You
Ilustrado (GMA)
The series is about the life of Dr. Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo Realonda a.k.a Jose Rizal portrayed by Alden Richards. Dubbed as the Philippines’ National Hero, he hid under the name of Jose Rizal in order to avoid the pursuit of the Imperial Spanish government against his mother, Teodora Alonzo, and his family. Jose Rizal, known also as Jose Mercado and Pepe, went to Spain to continue his education in college where he met other national heroes such as the Luna brothers, and Marcelo H. Del Pilar to name a few. During his stay, he and his fellow Filipinos managed to establish an organization, La Solidaridad that condemns the ruthless and inhuman acts of the Spanish armies in the Philippines, the geopolitical issues between the two countries, injustice, the tyranny of the friars, and the slavery of Filipinos under the Spanish regime. Jose Mercado later founded La Liga Filipina, a secret organization composed of another fellow Filipinos in La Solidaridad that aims to dismantle the rotten political system of Spain and end the oppression.
GMA
He wrote two books, the Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo which aims to show the gravity of oppression and the unjust practices between Indios and peninsular. These books created strong indignation that led the Indios together with the Philippine heroes to uprise and defend the Philippines’ independence against the Spanish regime.
With its great story and cinematography, it took home a finalist certification from PromaxBDA Global Excellence Award, a certificate in 2015 US International Film and Video Festival, 2015 NAMIC Excellence in Multicultural Marketing Awards (EMMA), won in PromaxBDA Asia 2015, and finalist certificates in 2016 New York Film Festival Awards.
Katipunan (GMA)
A series that tackles the history of the Philippine society Katipunan. It’s an organization of Indios against the tyrant Spain that took place when Jose Rizal’s second book El Filibusterismo was published. Helmed by Andres Bonifacio (Sid Lucero) who also attends secret meetings of the Freemasons. Tension escalates as Indios were awakened from Spain’s oppression of the natives, they started a revolution to end the grueling and rotten political system of Imperial Manila and defend the democracy.
GMA
This series took home a nomination and award from Asia Image Apollo Awards and a finalist certificate at the 2015 New York Festival.
Ang Babae ng Balangiga (ABS-CBN)
A hidden heroine in the face of adversity that played an important role in the Philippine – American war. This documentary narrates the story of a Visayan heroine named Casiana Nacionales in the historic encounter at Balangiga in 1901. This documentary earned a certificate under the documentary history category in the recently concluded US International Film and Video Festival.
ABS-CBN
Heneral Luna
Played by John Arcilla, this film depicts the story of Antonio Luna. A general that led the Philippine Revolutionary Army against the American colonization in the Philippine – American war. He has received awards in a variety of major categories at the Luna Awards and the 39th Gawad Urian Awards.
Lapu – Lapu
Dubbed as the first Filipino hero who led the native army at the Battle of Mactan against Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan which was said to be wounded in the leg with a poison arrow. Datu Lapu-Lapu (played by Lito Lapid), was the rival of Humabon during that time. Facts about the life of Lapu-Lapu were recorded in the Aginid chronicle. The film received a few awards from different categories at the FAP Awards.
With all the political, social, and health issues that the Philippines is facing right now, it’s important to be unified. Everyone has a say on something. However, let us not forget the essence of independence and the lives that were slain, all in the name of freedom. Let us not be divided by our personal ideology just because we think we are superior or we think the government is anti-poor or vice versa. Let’s support the importance of meaningful discourse with the government and come up with timely solutions and/or suggestions. Let’s respect both sides of the fence. The battle for oppression and injustice will continue unless we have the unity to counter it all together, the unity to be heard in a peaceful manner, and the unity to achieve the reality we want the future generations to live, as a unified Filipinos. We are better than this.
What historical series or films have you watched? Let’s chat in the comment section below.
The Philippines has been a colonized country way back in 1521 under the Spanish Empire led by the Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magellan until the Philippine Revolution in 1898. After which Spanish – American war took place and the U.S took possession of the Philippines prompting again another war, the Philippine – American war from 1899 to 1902. This year, the Philippines will celebrate its 122 years of independence.
Rappler
Baybayin: The Native Script
Before Filipinos learned Spanish and other dialects, Filipino ancestors had an alphabet of their own. From the Tagalog term meaning “alphabet”, it is recorded to have been existed since the 16th century. Baybayin is more of a syllabary, it comes from the root word “Baybay” which means “to spell”. Some dubbed it as “Alibata” which is according to Paul Rodriguez Versoza came from the arrangement of the Arabic alphabet: alif, ba, ta, eliminating the letter “f“. He is a member of the old National Language Institute and also the person behind the alibata name. However, due to the inaccuracy and illegitimacy of evidence, it never materialized.
Harley Oñes
There are early Spanish accounts stating that baybayin is also called Tagalog letters or Tagalog writings. Visayan natives called it Moro writing. Many writing systems in Southeast Asia originated from the ancient scripts used in India about 2,000 years ago, and baybayin shares the same important features. Despite its spread in the Philippines around the 1500s, it began to decline in the 1600s. Some say due to practicality, others noted social expediency. However, in some parts of the country, it was never lost or forgotten, instead, it developed into distinct styles spoken by other natives.
Today, baybayin is taught in schools and some millennials are keen on learning it. For someone like me who is new to these ancient scripts, and despite my age, it piqued my interest. After learning a little of the Japanese scripts – Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji, I find the baybayin almost similar to it including other scripts like Arabic. Take note though that I didn’t learn how to write Arabic and I badly needed a refresher from Japanese because I forgot as of this writing. And I have a not-so-good personal memory about the time I am learning the Japanese scripts (so, please bear with me).
http://fredsbaybayintopics.blogspot.com/
Learning baybayin is fun, I felt the Filipino pride somewhere in my heart. However, while it is fun learning it, I had a hard time with some letters since it doesn’t have an equivalent in baybayin. Some English words especially consonants don’t have a Baybayin equivalent. I have to transfer it to Tagalog in order to write its Baybayin scripts.
The Baybayin Vowels
Similar to the vowels in the English alphabet, the English alphabet consists of vowels such as a, e, i, o, u, in the baybayin scripts the vowels, however, are a, u/o, and i/e. However, to make an accurate sound, you have to put kudlit marks. An abugida is a method of writing in baybayin. The vowels along with kudlit marks work together to emphasize the sound. If the kudlit mark is placed above the letter, the a changes to i or e sound. While when placing the kudlit mark below the letter, it will sound like o or u.
The Baybayin Consonants
Similar to the Japanese Hiragana and Katakana, baybayin has consonants: ba, ka, da, ga, ha, la, ma, na, nga, pa, ta, wa, ya. Almost like in Japanese or other alphabets, it is written to how it sounded.
The difficulty when writing consonants in Baybayin scripts is when the consonants has no vowels. Generally, those letters are omitted. But there is also a way how to write it. Based in Doctrina Christiana of 1593, the oldest surviving example of baybayin and similar to Japanese script, consonants can be separated by inserting a vowel in between and usually, it’s the same vowel that follows the consonant pair.
The Non-Baybayin Scripts
Similar to Kanji in Japanese, there are also some baybayin scripts that doesn’t have a direct equivalent. These letters are substituted as b for letter v, p for letter f, k or s for letter c as few of the examples.
paulmorrow.ca
This language of ours is like any other, it once had an alphabet and its own letters that vanished as though a tempest had set upon a boat on a lake in a time now long gone.
“To My Fellow Children”, attributed to Jose Rizal, 1869 English translation by P. Morrow
Learning something new especially when it has to do something with your country’s tradition and rich history is fun and exciting. I got to write my name in baybayin.
You can use this link to generate your baybayin name.
Did you learn something? Do you see the similarity of Baybayin from other foreign alphabets? Tell us in the comments section below.
Italy is one of the most iconic and romantic spots in the world. Venice, a city that captivated the world with its rich watery beauty, canals, and Venetian Gothic architecture. It’s when art meets the water world clashing together into a beautiful, live, panoramic canvas. Dubbed as the “Floating City”, it has a lot of canals and bridges built under wooden platforms enabling it to stay afloat, thus, the name.
Those canals that made Venice an eye-catching, romantic getaway of lovers and adventure seekers created its little home at the heart of Taguig, in the Philippines. Venice Piazza is the living replica of Venice, it’s a feast of a Venetian Gothic style and Architecture. It’s so stunning that you would honestly think that you have been transported to Italy yourself, or it could have been the other way around?
Going to Venice Piazza is not as complicated as it may seem. If you came from Pasig City, you could ride in jeepneys. Tell the driver to drop you at Signal or Signal Village. From there, you ride in a red color-coded tricycle terminal with signage going to C5 Waterfront. Once you reach the destination, the last vehicle you will ride is another jeepney going to McKinley.
There is also a route if you are coming from Guadalupe, Makati City. This is much easier than coming from Pasig City. At Guadalupe, you only need to ride a jeepney going to Housing McKinley traveling in Bayani Road. Tell the driver to drop you off at McKinley.
The place has its way of making you want to explore all its nook and cranny. Who would have thought such inspiration of a city would have its little abode in a bustling and busy strip in the metro? Who would have thought that such romantic escapade is possible in a tropical country of sun and monsoons? Not to mention a food haven in every corner you look.
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Haven Of Food And Wall Artistry
The corridors and pavements are embellished with a lot of Gothic inspiration. The walls were designed to corroborate the view of real Venice in Italy. Situated within large buildings, it’s synchrony of both food and art that doesn’t just feed your appetite with the restaurants and bars on the side but lets you feast your eyes on the elaborate and meticulous placement of each crafted wall murals and design of the entire building and its surroundings. It caters to different taste buds and is a perfect hangout to unwind and fall in love with the arts.
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Adding to the festive decorations were the colorful Christmas decors, the giant Christmas tree situated at the middle of the lagoon, and assorted flowers such as poinsettias were placed all over to feel the warmth of this coming Yuletide season.
I was actually thinking of making this comparison back then but I often have forgotten. And I feel like, it’s not the right time yet. Fast forward, now that I think about it, I came to the conclusion that this has to be the right time. Not because I have an issue with Shopee as of this writing. Curious? I will tell you about my experience. But for now, this post needs to be done. (Haha).
In some countries particularly the United States, online shopping has been implemented and it actually worked quite well. With such big names like Amazon of US and Alibaba of China, these are legit testimonies of how a one-man force became the world’s richest billionaire in the persona of Jeff Bezos of Amazon. But of course, there will be online shopping horror stories and failures. I believed it’s actually happening but just a few isolated cases. Regardless of whether you are in the first world or third world countries, these incidents are evident.
Through social media alone, one can easily post his sentiment against a normal person, a celebrity, or a corporation. It might a hassle for the opposing end but on a regular basis, it helps a lot so people can be easily informed of any anomalies and fraudulent acts.
Lazada App
Shopee App
Okay, I know for a fact that there are advantages and disadvantages to the use of social media. But this article intends to give light about the posts, and reviews of this online shopping fiasco. Those are legit, guys. It’s not meant to degrade or tarnish anyone’s reputation. Online shopping fails are failures. Period. They’re not hoaxed. It’s not made up stories unless either of the party has had pending criminal records or convicted with a related crime.
Legit Online Shopping Failures
I tried to search a hashtag in Instagram #onlineshoppingfail and yep, the telltales of unhappy, dissatisfied, and morbid online shoppers. Their excitement that turned into a disaster. It’s actually happening and as a consumer, this is an issue we need to addressed and stopped. Exposing scammers, fake items, failed delivery and failed products are important. Yea, I get it! You got the money, so what? This is for ordinary people who worked their ass off just to save that amount. Just as the world has had their fair share of online shopping horrors, the Philippines is no exemption.
The rise of online shopping in the Philippines flourished in recent years. Two of the giant online shopping companies in the Philippines are battling it out for the online shopping supremacy. To start off, Lazada is one of the actual pioneers of the online shopping industry. Thanks to this company, the online shopping industry had shown potential and Filipinos are just as busy and hardworking as our international neighbors. Reigned for 3 years until the existence of Shopee came head to head against Lazada. For your information, both Lazada and Shopee are primarily a Singapore-based e-commerce platform.
Lazada Philippines
ABOUT LAZADA
Launched in 2012, Lazada is the number-one online shopping and selling destination in Southeast Asia – present in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. As the pioneer of the eCommerce ecosystem in Southeast Asia, Lazada has 155,000 sellers and 3,000 brands serving 560 million consumers in the region through its marketplace platform, supported by a wide range of tailored marketing, data and service solutions. With 300 million SKUs available, Lazada offers the widest range of products in categories from consumer electronics to household goods, toys, fashion, sports equipment, and groceries. Focused on delivering an excellent customer experience, it offers multiple payment methods including cash-on-delivery, comprehensive customer care, and hassle-free returns through its own first and last-mile delivery arm supported by approximately 100 logistics partners. Lazada Group is majority-owned by Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE: BABA). HERE
Type of business
Private
Founded
27 March 2012; 7 years ago
Headquarters
Singapore
Area served
International
Owner
AlibabaGroup
Founder(s)
Alexander Samwer, Marc Samwer, Oliver Samwer
Key people
Peng Lei (Executive Chairwoman) Pierre Poignant (CEO)
Industry
Internet
Services
E-commerce (Onlineshopping)
Employees
8,000+
Website
www.lazada.com (corporate)
Alexa rank
36,775 (September 2018)
Shopee Philippines
ABOUT SHOPEE
Shopee is a Singaporean e-commerce platform headquartered under the Sea Group (previously known as Garena), which was founded in 2009 by Forrest Li. Shopee first launched in Singapore in 2015, and since expanded its reach to Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. It serves users in Southeast Asia and Taiwan to buy and sell products online. Due to the mobile and social element built within the concept, Shopee was described as one of the “5 disruptive e-commerce startups we saw in 2015” by Tech In Asia. HERE
Type of site
Subsidiary
Available in
English Indonesian Japanese Korean Thai Chinese Vietnamese Tagalog
Founded
2015; 4 years ago
Headquarters
5 Science Park Drive, Shopee Building, Singapore 118265
Lazada has its own share of product lines. Being ahead of the online shopping industry in the Philippines compared to Shopee, they have a robust selection of both generic and branded items through LazMall or Lazada Mall. These branded items are also offering discounts where some are Lazada’s exclusive deals.
That being said, having some of the branded names in the industry is a one-point feat against its competitor. However, not everyone came to these online shops to look for branded names. Despite that those are legit brands, it also reflects the prices of their items. Believe it or not, most of the shoppers aren’t even interested in these branded items.
Some are sellers that venture into online business. These sellers bring their products under Lazada or Shopee. So technically, these two companies are just mediums benefitting from these sellers’ products. Now, what’s the edge of Shopee against Lazada? Despite that Lazada came out first and they have branded items under their belt, Shopee has managed to exceed the number of products that Lazada is selling. That was their greatest feat considering that they are younger than Lazada.
They don’t have specific categories for branded items but Shopee has legit sellers that also offer branded items. It just so happened that the categories of Shopee are more generic, unorganized and they don’t have dedicated stores for branded items, unlike Lazada. They have Celebrity Club, but I wouldn’t consider it as brands but it’s more of a celebrity endorsing or celebrity own product selling. It may be also because Shopee might have a loose business system and they just accept any sellers.
Unlike Lazada who probably has stricter guidelines limiting the same products. And just as I previously mentioned, the online shopper’s generally don’t care about the brand as long as they liked it and the product isn’t so bad.
Winner: Shopee
Price: Lazada Vs Shopee
This is probably the major determining factor for some. But honestly, the prices of both Lazada and Shopee are almost the same or the marginal difference is too small to notice the difference. Unless if it’s a branded item. And the real reason is, it’s upon the sellers’ discretion of the amount they will incur. Lazada and Shopee don’t care about how these sellers are making their price list. However, there is a major factor why despite their prices are the same, yet, in terms of overall pricing one company doesn’t make the cut.
Winner: Both Overall Pricing Winner: Lazada
Shipping and Delivery: Lazada Vs Shopee
This is the major factor why Lazada stood out as the overall pricing winner. Why? Because of the delivery charge. These two don’t offer the same delivery charge. It’s worth noting that the base price of the products of these two are almost the same, and it’s solely dependent on the seller’s pricing. However, Shopee charges more than Lazada. The minimum delivery charge of Lazada is 50php compared to Shopee’s 100php minimum. So, despite that, the base product prices are the same, as a consumer which will you prefer? Of course, I would choose the low delivery charge any time of the day.
The delivery schedule is almost the same. But somehow, Lazada could make it by 2 days depending on the product you ordered. I’m saying this out of the experience.
Edited: It has been a year since I wrote this article and there has been a great change when it comes to the shipping fees. Lazada removed their based-line shipping fee of P50. It will now depend on the weight of the product the same as what Shopee does.
Winner: Both
Quality: Lazada Vs Shopee
This is something sort of a case to case basis if there are irregularities. Since most of their generic products are made from China, so you wouldn’t expect more or more disappointment. I am not against China products btw, as I do have products that I am using that are shipped from China. Just a clarification. There are incidents that even in countries like the United States and China have failed in the product quality of their items.
Winner: Both
Service: Lazada Vs Shopee
This is now about the part I mentioned earlier. I experienced bad service thrice in Shopee that I never experienced in Lazada. It’s about missing items. I can definitely justify this based on my personal experiences that sellers in Shopee are twice as bad as in Lazada. And they suck in service as much as the sellers in Lazada. As of this writing, I have an on-going dispute case against one of Shopee’s seller in China. The bad part is, I am their regular customer. The Shopee is handling it professionally but still, bad service is a bad service. I don’t tolerate bad service.
I added something that I just encountered recently with Lazada when I opened an online store. This is not about the product but more of its service feature. This is only meh so don’t take this against Lazada. I’m not the type of getting calls randomly just to promote their seller hub. So, I hate it when Lazada will call me numerous times to announce something new or if they have promotions ahead of time. That is good for some seller, but I don’t personally like it. It’s just similar to going to a mall and this sales clerk keeps on bugging me. I will approach them if I need something.
If you are waiting for an important call, say job interviews, business-related calls ore meetings, you wouldn’t want a random number popping up in your screen and realizing it’s just the Lazada customer service. On the business side, that is marketing. but like I said for me it isn’t. Maybe Lazada should push for email marketing campaigns which they do while Shopee RARELY to never do, instead of calling the person. Or they should ask ahead of time if it’s okay to call for updates so the person should save the number.
Winner: Both
Vouchers And Promotions: Lazada Vs Shopee
When it comes to promotion, the good about these two is that both of them are like actively interacting with one another. Both are implementing the same promotional stints whether it’s a 10/10, Christmas sale, New Year’s sale, end of the month sale, end of the year sale, Halloween Sale, Flash sales, and other sales you can think of. They are also offering Free Shipping for all the products worth 500php (this has changed) up ordered in the same seller and not generally as separate purchases from different sellers. They also have vouchers and discounts. But, again, what makes Lazada stand out is, it has promos and discounts in its branded items.
Winner: Both
LAZADA FLASH SALE
SHOPEE 10/10
Live Selling: Lazada Vs Shopee
This is not a surprise as both platforms have their own way of engaging customers by allowing the sellers to sell via live streaming included inside the platform. They have their own ways of using this live selling feature to tease the customers who are often into online selling. With all the pandemics going on, these have been the avenues of some entrepreneurs that are affected by the pandemic.
Winner: Both
Seller Hub: Lazada Vs Shopee
This is an addition as I just recently venture into online business. Creating an online shop in these platforms become common nowadays. With the pandemic that made everyone lose their jobs, WFH (Work from Home) or venture into online business. It’s inevitable that you wouldn’t encounter this in the Philippines. There are of course other platforms that you can use. There are Facebook Marketplace, Shopify, Etsy or even setting up an online store in your website (if you have one).
When it comes to setting an online store, there are two differiating factors between the two. Lazada created their stand-alone app dedicated for the Lazada Seller Hub, while Shopee’s Seller Hub is inside the Shopee app. If I want something simple an my smartphone isn’t cut with a high internal storage, Shopee has the advantage. The Lazada Seller app is battery and memory space consuming. When it comes to setting the app, Lazada requires your real DTI certificate and Business information whereas, you can easily set-up an online shop in Shopee.
For credibility’s sake, that is a good feature from Lazada. It allows legit sellers with the intent to sell and not some kind of a bogus seller or scam. This issue is rather a case to case basis, so it will not necessarily reflect the integrity of the shops. However, if you are to create your virtual shop now, you can’t with Lazada. You need your business to be registered with the DTI’s business number. That’s the advantage of Shopee; it will allow you to create your shop with ease. The downside is, you wouldn’t know whether the shops inside Shopee are legit.
Winner: Shopee
Conclusion
Lazada: ⭐⭐⭐ Shopee: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ I don’t discourage you to use Lazada or Shopee. At the end of the day, it’s up to you whose service you are satisfied with, whose products cater to your preference, whose delivery is you comfortable and the list goes on. I for one, use these two online shopping companies. I go for Lazada for the same product I am using. And I also order in Shopee for the products I am using that aren’t found in Lazada. I use both of their seller platforms but I mostly update my shop in Shopee.
* 1 – 5 stars – 5 as the highest and 1 as the lowest
What are your online shopping horror stories? Let’s talk it out in the comment section.
Disclaimer: Neither Lazada nor Shopee paid me for doing this review.
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With much anticipation before the recently concluded Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) 2019, I had a great time when I went there last September 12, 2019. It actually ran from September 11 to 15, 2019. Every year, it is celebrated as a 5-day event. It’s a gathering of big and small-time publishers, big and amateur writers, published authors, and traditional and indie publications. And of course, the hoarding of the books of both local and international acclaimed authors by bookworms.
Manila International Book Fair 2019
What’s so special about the recent MIBF 2019? Well, unfortunately, there is nothing new to the book fair based on previous articles and videos about it. The book sale, the publishers, the events such as book signings of various local authors, programs, and the same activities held every year are the same as last year, except that there are changes in exhibitors. And of course, it is my first time attending such an event.
If you are a student, you will definitely benefit from the various textbooks on sale. I have seen a few exhibitors who are selling school textbooks and college references. There are also other exhibitors who just don’t sell Science and Technology books, robotics, and Encyclopedias, but there are actual crafts and simple robots that were displayed to add an additional mood in the air. If you are into these kinds of things, you will appreciate those stalls and learn something from them.
Most of the books on sale are faith-based books. The likes of Philippine Christian Book Store (PCBS), CSM Publishing, OMF Bookshop, Philippine Bible Society (PBS), and other new Christian book stores that I am not familiar with. The presence of big names such as National Bookstore, Anvil Publishing, REX Bookstore, ABS-CBN Publishing, Fully Booked, Psicom, Our Daily Bread, and other familiar names in the industry.
As an indie author, I saw indie and small publishing houses like Booklat, Bookware, Lampara, 8Letters, Phoenix Publishing, and a lot more. There are also author booths that conducted book signing events such as the one I came across (it’s a separate article). However, I didn’t expect the presence of university publications like UP, UST, and FEU publication. The organizers also held programs with famous book personalities and media icons present and conducted a little workshop for writer aspirants. The schedule was posted on the wall so you will know what day are they coming. Unfortunately, I haven’t encountered any famous personality nor author that day. So sorry for me. 😅 If you are hungry, you don’t need to go out of the premises as there are food stalls on either corner and a roving food girl carries a trolley with local goodies, snacks, and beverages.
MY PERSONAL MIBF EXPERIENCE
It was dark and cloudy when I arrived. The rain is expected to fall at that time but luckily, it didn’t until I entered the SMX Convention. Although there are free entrance pass tickets available on the internet (you have to print them and show them at the entrance), I didn’t have time to do so. I just bought one at the actual event. It cost me 35 PHP, for the adult entrance while there is a variant of 20 PHP for the children.
You will be definitely fascinated by the plethora of books in front of you. The two floors of the SMX Convention were dedicated to the said event. There are children’s books for your kiddos and a few BTS merchandise for K-Pop fans present at the book fair. However, that fascination dwindled as I was disappointed with the outcome of the book fair. Since it was my first time, I was expecting that the household author books (I am mostly referring to self-help, business, and financial freedom book authors aside from fictional authors) will be on sale at a discounted or reasonable prices but to my dismay, it didn’t. That was my sole purpose on why I came there in the first place. Most of them are selling at regular prices or 20% discounts.
But to give light to this failed expectation, there are textbooks that can be bought at 10 PHP – 50 PHP depending on the textbook. Psicom books are also available from 69 PHP to 99 PHP and most of the faith-based books are sold at 100 PHP of 1 regular book of any topic or two small size books like devotionals. And ABS-CBN publications and other indie pubs are selling their books around the price of 150ish.
In general, it was a successful event despite that I only bought a few pieces. Not all of the books I intended to buy were there. It only means that despite that it is indeed a big book fair, you shouldn’t expect it to be grander and complete. Some people I knew in the industry met at the said event, aside from the fact that they met their favorite local authors. I will see if I will be as enthusiastic to attend next year’s MIBF as I was this year.
What are your thoughts about the recent event? Share us in the comments below.
Engaging. Generous. Fresh. These are the three words how I can described this published author I came across while I am at the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) 2019 last Sept 12, 2019. Who wouldn’t go to his booth if you saw a “free book” signage on the top of the table? Funny, I became inquisitive and asked the woman next to me if it were actually free. And yes, it was.
I was quite amazed on how Mark was able to give away his first published books for free. I know I might be over reacting, but hey, this is 2019, there is no freebie nowadays! Especially in this destitute generation of illiterate millennials who have nothing to do but to play mobile games, instead of reading a book. With his genuine generosity of not just giving his book away but, he signed it for us who were there. So sweet of him to do that, really. Not every new authors would do that, if ever, it would end up in a raffle, in pieces of first 3 or five giveaways. That was utterly heroic, especially in the indie sectors where everyone is striving just to be published or give his or her contribution for the Philippine literature.
I was moved from that simple gesture, that is why, I am doing him an article for everyone to know. This is not just my simple way of acknowledging his deed, but in respect for all my fellow writers especially those authors who keep on pursuing their dreams despite many odds. He was pretty candid and smiling while talking to the ladies who were all-cheers and candidly waiting in the line. I got the chance to know this guy and did a little interview.
Since when did you know that you want to write? Mark: Actually, I started writing when my parents are still alive, both my father and mom. Actually, I dedicated it for them. As you can see in my book, you can see it from here, it’s to Mama and Papa. And what my mother said, “you started writing it, you have to finish it.” …Tinapos ko siya (I finished it) 7 years in the making. 3 years na writing, 3 years ‘yung processing ng editing (the processing of editing). Naghanap pa kami ng English native speakers. Sila ‘yung nag-edit. (We hired English native speakers. They did the editing)
So, based in 3 years, was it a hobby or a passion? Mark: I can say that it is both a hobby and a passion.
What is the book all about? Mark: It’s about love, mainly.
Why? Mark: Usually, I still have to work from another company. When I am going home, I started writing again, I could say weekly. It’s not everyday naman talaga na makakapagsulat ka (that you are able to write) … But ang contribution mainly ng mga kasama mo na gumawa ng book, sila, kumbaga, sila rin ang nakakatulong sa’yo. Kasi siguro masasabi ko na nasa more than 20 katao ang tumulong sa akin. (But the contribution mainly of my colleagues that helped me with the book, it’s like, they were there to help you out. I could say that more that 20 persons had helped me)
What particular love or what kind of love? Mark: I could say it as.. kasi meron kasing carnal love (because there is called a carnal love). Which is meron din siyang (it has) carnal love but more on filial love, parental love.
Why make it free, especially it is your first book signing? Mark: Book launching talaga siya (it is actually). So, para mai-promote namin o mai-market namin na ito may isang author natapos niya yung book after 7 years. Worth it naman ‘di ba? (So, for us to be able to promote or market that there is an author who was able to finished the book after 7 years. Worth it, right?)
What is your message to this generation, where reading has been almost forgotten? Mark: Hindi na nahihilig sa pagbabasa? Kasi ang generation kasi natin ngayon more on electronics. Although hindi naman natin dini-discourage na hindi magbasa sa electronics. Kasi para sa akin, marami akong nakita sa videos yung mga taong nahilig na sa technology meron sa kanila na brain dead….so kung physical book, walang masyadong risk. (Who were not into reading? Although we don’t discouraged that they shouldn’t read electronics. Our generation today is more on electronics. For me, I have seen many videos of those people addicted to the technology where some of them were brain dead.. so if it is a physical book, it is less risky)
What is your message for your fellow writers that haven’t published their book but they want to? Mark: Just keep up the good work. Ano talagang ituloy-tuloy mo lang. Kahit tumagal ka man as long as meron ka naman goal na tapusin siya. Kasi kung mag-stop ka, yung ideas na sinimulan mo magfe-fade away na yun. Tapos malay mo maganda pala ng ideya mo na ‘yun at hindi nalalaman ng mga tao? So para lang siyang naging oblivion, yung idea na ganon. Walang naka-discover na ganung idea. (Just continue what you are doing. Even though it could take years as long as you have set a goal to finish it. Because if you stop now, all your initial ideas will fade away. What if your idea is great and people didn’t recognize it? So it only became oblivion, that kind of idea. No one was able to discovered that idea)
Where can they buy your book after Mibf? Mark: After this ang mangyayari kasi, di ko pa masasabi kasi nagaapply-apply kami sa iba’t-ibang mga bookstores. May publisher na siya, Reyes Publishing. (After this what will happen is, I cannot discuss it yet because we are trying to apply in other bookstores. There is a publisher, Reyes Publishing)
After the interview, I took a photo with him (which I almost forgot.😅). It was kind of him to accept my short interview and of course my copy of signed free book of him. You can contact him only at his Facebook id: Mark Phillip Castillo.
It’s the time of the year again, and nope, I am not saying it’s Christmas even though we welcomed the month of September yesterday. September is the month where all the book worms, storytellers, authors and fans will gather for the much anticipated book fair of the year – The Manila International Book Fair 2019.
Manila International Book Fair
Held yearly, every 2nd week of September. It is a week long celebration of books, books and more books. It is also the gathering of amateur writers, published and famous authors all around the nation. Of course, house hold international names are present as many book enthusiasts will definitely hoard these books. Mibf is also the time where books across all genres will be on sale or under discounts, so you can now avail your most coveted series or trilogies that you weren’t able to buy when it was released last year or early this year.
Manila International Book Fair
Indie and big publishers will be present so you can have the opportunity to talk to them regarding how to publish your work or details on publishing and self-publishing if you are a writer and thinking on the either processes. And you can expect author celebs or high-profile book worms during the book fair. Also, see their latest additions of different activities, and booths that will run for the entire five days.
Manila International Book Fair
Whatever the reason why you are going, this is a celebration of the thousand years of acquiring knowledge gathered from facts, biographies, tombs and ancient documents of our ancestors – reading. So, let’s celebrate and go to the Manila International Book Fair at SMX Convention Center, Manila running from September 11 – 15, 2019 at 10 am onwards. Who knows, you wouldn’t just meet old acquaintances, or popular personalities, but your match made because of loving books. See you there!
Choosing the right type of wood for your front door is stressful. This guide aims to help you a budget-friendly wooden door without compromising the durability of the wood .
Houses are one of the important assets people need to invests into. Owning a house is somewhat expensive but it’s a good investment overtime especially real estate business have been always growing and never undergo devaluation in the market. Real Estate is most of time, if not always a win-win situation. In the Philippines, housing can be obtained through a government housing insurance like PAG-IBIG payable depending on the number of years of agreement. There are other ways like bank financing, loan or mortgage, rent-to-own, and of course buying it with cold cash.
We are familiar with the proverb, “The eyes are the windows of our soul.” Just like the saying, a great door made of great material emanates a great house inside. Many home owners, especially within the socialite class are meticulous in choosing the right wood for their door. But since the financial capacity of most Filipinos are in the middle or upper middle classes, they tend to choose the inexpensive but durable wood for front doors.
In the United States of America, woods are classified into ten types that are commonly used in doors among the American households, that is according to Bill Esler of Woodworking Network. These are:
Pine
Bamboo (debatable since it is classified as a grass)
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However, due to the climate differences and other contributing factors, here in the Philippines, the most common types of woods for the doors you would see are: Melina, Mahogany and Narra. I was able to know these things because I went to many furniture shops in my province. I was asked by my sister for her house, so I thought it would be better to enlighten my readers and share this nugget of information.
1- Melina/Gmelina Wood
Wikipedia
Known as Gmelina Arborea, of the Verbenaceae family. A growing forest species that are commonly used in industrial reforestation development due to its ability to grow fast, versatility, easy management, and its physical and mechanical properties. Melina’s great growing environment is in the humid or dry lands. And mostly found in countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, Burma, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, in southern provinces of China and throughout India. Its timber is commonly used in doors, window panels, in furnitures like drawers, wardrobes, cupboards and muqsical instruments. Frames, brush handles, toys, tea chests, plywoods and blackboards.
Other Facts • 15% of the world’s total area planted with Melina is in Costa Rica, thus, the name ‘everyday timber’ in the country. • The famous brand Faber Castel used it in their pencils • The ‘Lion Throne’, one of the eight royal thrones of Myanmar, is carved from Gmelina arborea wood, and it is preserved at the National Museum in Yangon.
Known as Swietenia macrophylla, of the family, Meliaceae. Indigenous to America that ranges from Mexico to southern Brazil where the true commercialized species of mahogany is grown. There are also known species of mahogany like the African genera (Khaya), and Entandrophragma, the kohekohe of New Zealand, Toona species of China, Chinaberry (Milea), Pink (Bosse), Guarea of India, Crabwood (Carapa) and Shorea. The Philippine mahogany and Tanguile are included in the species Shorea. Shorea is known under many trade names like Lauan, Lawaan, and Meranti to name a few. The characteristics of mahogany are fine, straight-grained, reddish-brown, free from voids and pockets timber. It is known for its durability, beauty, and color and displays a reddish luster when polished. Primarily used in doors, cabinets, furnitures, boats and musical instruments.
Other Facts • Mahogany is the national tree of Belize and Dominican Republic. • Cuban and West India mahogany are the most rare, expensive and desirable species that people pay as much as $28 per board foot compared to the furniture-grade cherry species that only costs $3 per board foot. • Mahogany was the most planted tree of the National Greening Program in 2010 and 2011.
3- Narra Wood
Wikipedia
Known as Pterocarpus indicus, of the family Fabaceae, is full of well-defined clusters of knots. The grain is either interlocked or sometimes wavy. With a natural luster and uneven medium to coarse texture. Red or rose color, with a streak of yellow. It is termite-resistant and rose-scented. Other alternative names are asana, mukwa and padauk. Its timber is sought for its durability and is primarily used in floorings, doors, furnitures, decorative carvings and musical instruments. Narra is native to Asia and Africa.
Other Facts • Narra is the national tree of the Philippines. • In the Philippines, you need a permit to cut this type of wood. • Narra is a leguminous plant capable of transforming nitrogen into other usable forms.
Canvasing, and looking for the pieces for your house is fun and informative. You get to know some things you aren’t familiar with. It’s the same feeling as when you are shopping. 😁 Unfortunately, I have to come up with conclusion.
CONCLUSION
First, you have to ask these personal questions: Why do I need this type of wood for my door? What will it benefit me in the long run? How long will this wood takes before wear and tear?
90×210 made to order wooden doors. A product from Wilma Furnitures.
For that, when it comes to durability, I will recommend you all these three types of woods. They are all durable, hard and a great wood for furnitures especially for the door. When it comes to the wear and tear, Melina wood is the mediocre. However, according to my source during my canvasing, mahogany are prone to wood-boring beetles. So, it will shorten the usability and durability of mahogany woods. Wood-boring beetles are similar to termites, but not as destructive as the latter. When it comes to the price, this is where the deal-breaker takes place. Narra woods are very expensive, twice or even combined prices of both Melina and Mahogany. While mahogany is just a hundred to thousand bucks more than Melina wood.
90×210 Wooden doors at the other furniture shops.This was the given prices in one of the furniture shops I visited. Hamba is the wooden sides assembled together with the door.Different 90×210 mahogany designs at a cheaper price of ₱8k bucks
So, Narra Wood is the sure winner among the three. Except that it comes with a hefty price tag. So if you are in a tight budget, I would recommend you the durable and cheaper Melina and Mahogany, but if you are willing to splurge more thousand bucks, I will definitely recommend you the Narra wood for your door.
Celebrating its 121-year of independence (Araw ng Kalayaan), the Philippines has come a long way eversince it gained its sovereignity. Philippines has its share of rich culture and tradition. It has a diverse culture that originated from different colonizers that inhabited the island. The Philippines has been captive for centuries, thanks to the brave heroes that fought for its independence, Filipinos are now reaping the benefits of the freedom that was worth fighting for. Without these heroes like Jose Rizal – Philippines’ national hero, Andres Bonifacio, Emilio Aguinaldo, Lapu-Lapu, Gregorio Del Pillar, Melchora Aquino, and Apolinario Mabini to name a few, Filipinos would probably be still enslaved. A history of bravery, unity and a sense of nationalism. These are just prelude to a hundred-year of history of the Philippines’ independence and national heritage.
Today, many Filipinos all over the world are remembering, if not celebrating that freedom. And what’s greater way to celebrate it is to visit those iconic and memorable places that contributed an impact to the Filipinos and to the world in remembrance of the sacrifices of these great heroes. Here are the four great places to visit this Independence Day to experience a glimpse of that chivalry and patriotism.
Philippine National Museum. What comes in mind in order to know the brief history of a country is to visit their national museum. Located at Manila, where you can take a walk near the famous Manila Bay afterwards, its strategic location is near the center of many establishments, the national park, and national facilities.
Source: Philippine National Museum
“The National Museum manages and develops the national reference collections in the areas of cultural heritage (fine arts, anthropology and archaeology) and natural history (botany, zoology,and geology and paleontology), and carries out permanent research programs in biodiversity, geological history, human origins, pre-historical and historical archaeology, maritime and underwater cultural heritage, ethnology, art history, and moveable and immoveable cultural properties.” – Philippine National Museum
To book a visit or support the museum’s cause, visit their website HERE.
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Luneta Park. The Philippines’ national park that commemorates the Filipinos’ national hero – Jose Rizal. Luneta Park (a.k.a Rizal Park) is not just a place where national activities are held. Filipino families gather here to enjoy and be amaze of the park that is located in the heart of a city. Surrounded by lush greeneries, and trees, it has a fountain that highlights the three great islands that comprises the Philippines. Children can enjoy the playground that was built by the government. There are amenities that caters the needs of each individuals. The iconic monument that is guarded 24/7, is the main attraction that attracts many visitors both local and foreign. Even the most important diplomats of other nations, paid a visit to this monument whenever they are in the Philippines.
Source: Wikipedia
Intramuros. The cobbled streets and Manila’s Walled City, this is the home of the Spanish-era landmarks that reflected the influence of imperialist Spain that once conquered the Philippines for centruries. Home to the famous Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church museum, Casa Manila museum and the Manila Cathedral. If you are a devote Catholic or has a fascination of Gothic Architecture, this is a must-see place for you and your family.
Source: positivelyfilipino.com
MacArthur Leyte Landing Memorial National Park. Located at Red Beach, Palo, Leyte, you can book a flight to Tacloban City from Manila and Cebu. The said memorial has a rich history between United States of America and the Philippines. Dubbed as the red beach, it symbolizes the blood drenched in the war against Japanese invading the island. This memorial national park commemorates the promise of General Douglas MacArthur with his reknowned phrase “I shall return”. The largest battle in the Gulf of Leyte, also known as the Second Battle of the Philippine Sea, and the last marine battle during the World War II.
Source: Wikipedia
A unified country represents the unified ideals of its citizens. It resounds the intention of the government to its people, not in a form of dictatorship but through a good governance and leadership. These heroes heard the outcry of its fellowmen, thus, resulting to the fight for democracy. This Independence Day, let us commemorate the sacrifices of these heroes beyond merits and recognition, but going to these national historical places will allow us to know them better and experience the sense of nationalism they once had. Through this Memorial places, we are also teaching the younger generations the pride of the country, the lessons learned from the history and the patriotism of why was the Philippines was worth dying for.
What other national memorial places in the Philippines you know that are not included in the list? Tell us in the comment section below.
There is a resort in the North that caters every kids’ dream
More than 4 hours drive from Metro Manila, near the famous Sunflower Farm in Tayug, there is a famous resort somewhere in Rosales that is indeed a haven for the kids and kids at heart. Located Brgy. Rizal, Provincial Road, Rosales, Pangasinan, a 10-15 minutes drive to SM Rosales.
Cozy Place Resort is truly a cozy resort. Giant ornaments, dinosaur-and-flowery-themed, colorful resort design and the vintage wooden nipa huts to give shelter to the excursionists at an affordable cost of rent. True to its name, its swimming pools are made for toddlers and pre-adolescent kids. It has 8 swimming pools, and only one pool is dedicated for adults with a 6-feet depth and the rest are children-friendly depth. There are 2-curved high slides opposite each other, and 3-straight middle slides if you want a direct immersive experience straight to the water. You could also immerse yourself under the water fall that is ideal for meditative purpose. There are also colorful small containers that drops water at a specific interval. An umbrella-like fountain, and children mini-slides at almost every pool. Foliage and palm trees gives a shade for UV-conscious customers They also have amenities like grilling area, eating area, outside shower area and a videoke area. They have event center and a lodge for conventions and group activities. And a nice looking and clean hotel if you want to book for a room during your stay.
Formore information and booking, contact them at: Contact Numbers: (075)632-7713 / (63)917-5011444 E-mail:cozyplaceresort@yahoo.com
Hotel Room Rates Check In Time: 2:00 P.M. Check Out Time:12:00 N.N.
Standard Room (2 pax) : Php. 1,800.00 Triple Room (3 pax) : Php. 2,200.00 Family Room (4 pax) : Php. 2,800.00 Family Penthouse (4 pax) : Php. 3,500.00 Family Penthouse (6 pax) : Php. 4,500.00 Suite Room (2 pax) : Php. 3,500.00 Additional Guest : php. 400.00
Disclaimer:Prices subject to change without any prior notice so contact them. Drinks (only allowed inside the room), and pets are not allowed in the premises. Swimming attire is a must.
CHILD-FRIENDLY BUT NEEDS MORE IMPROVEMENTS It is indeed a great place for kids solely because of its child-friendly seven (7) swimming pools. But for adults, you will only contain yourself with a single swimming pool, and for tall guys above 6-feet, that is not impressive. The location is great because you can buy anything outside and the stores are accessible. Plus if you want to hang out and eat dinner at SM Rosales, it is likely possible and convenient due to its nearness. The resort is good and child-haven but for its services and some amenities, it needs more improvements.
There are instagramable areas good for photo ops and selfie fad. The cafeteria or canteen also needs a lot of improvement. The rooms aren’t fully-furnished but the basics are there. There is still an on-going constructions and or repairs at some areas. But the security is great and there are warning signs within the premises.
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