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NEWSFEATURE: ‘BAMBOO FLOWER’ FILM SHOOT TO SPUR TOURISM IN ABATAN RIVER
Friday 24th of May 2013
BOHOL, May 24 (PIA) –- A movie crew is currently on location shoot at the beautiful locations in Anda, Alicia, and Abatan River in Cortes and Maribojoc towns in Bohol for a movie entry in the prestigious Master Director’s Edition of the 2013 Sineng Pambansa.
Movie director and Boholano artist Maryo J. delos Reyes said he brings to Bohol the production staff and crew to do a movie “The Bamboo Flowers.”
Delos Reyes is among the 12 television and film directors who have been funded to provide an entry into the film festival in September, according to award-winning musical scorer Lutgardo Labad, who is also a Boholano .
Delos Reyes ...
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22May2013CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 22 (PIA) -- The Katipunan da reng Talasaliksik at Talaturung Kapampangan Inc. invites history and art buffs to its third Kapampangan lecture series on June 3 at St. Nicholas Auditorium in Barangay Poblacion in Macabebe town. In a press statement, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) said the event coincides with the 442nd anniversary of the martyrdom of the brave young leader of Macabebe named Bambalito and his warriors at the Battle ...
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22May2013ILOILO CITY, May 22 (PIA) -- The parade of festival sagala and fiesta queens will highlight the celebration of “Fiestas in the City”, a week-long event showcasing the colorful festivals in Western Visayas. Lawyer Helen Catalbas, Department of Tourism-6 (DOT-6) Regional Director, said that DOT, in cooperation with SM City Iloilo, has lined-up daily special events from May 20-25 to promote the richness of West Visayan culture and the talent of the Ilonggos in one setting. Catalbas said tha...
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21May2013CEBU CITY, May 21 (PIA)-- All is set for the holding of Cebu City’s “Gabii sa Kabilin” – a Heritage Tour at Night on May 31. In a statement sent by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation (RAFI), all is set for this year’s “Gabii sa Kabilin” with all participating units and agencies. The City Integrated Traffic Operation Management (CITOM) released an advisory cautioning downtown motorists of closures of some city streets on the 31st of May for the safe conduct of the “Gabii sa Kabilin...
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21May2013CATARMAN, Northern Samar, May 21 (PIA) -- The University of Eastern Philippines (UEP) Catarman, Northern Samar will host an international conference on migration and cultural adaptation for several state colleges and universities on May 23-25 at the Farmers Training Center at UEP. Romula Obleopas, UEP publication and media officer, said the three-day activity will cover research and lecture presentation on multicultural realities in Korea and the Philippines stemming from marriage and worker ...
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17May2013ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, May 17 (PIA) -- A photo essay book on Kapampangan beauty queens since 1908 will be launched this July. Penned by Alex Castro, “Aro Katimyas Da!” (Oh kay timyas/kay ganda naman ng dalaga) (Oh how beautiful she is) was borne out of his collection of archival pictures. “I thought instead of gathering dust in carton boxes under my bed, I'd find use for them. Hence, the book, as a Filipiniana photo collector, I would often find pictures of reynas, town fiesta queens,...
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16May2013BAGUIO CITY, May 16 (PIA) –- The country's Summer Capital once again proved that it is a haven for rich and diverse culture and arts with the successful staging of the 2nd Baguio Music Festival. In festival was held May 6 to 9 at the Baguio Convention Center. The organizers were the Department of Education (DepEd), the Tourism and Special Events Division of the City Administration’s Office. Some of the country's top performers, among them the Philharmonic Orchestra, and educators offe...
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16May2013BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, May 16 (PIA) -- The provincial government here has allotted more than P4.8 million for the holding of the 5th Grand Ammungan Festival on May 19-24. The event, which is part of the 174th founding anniversary of Nueva Vizcaya, seeks to gather the ethnic tribes Isinai, Ibaloi, Kalanguya, Iwak, Gaddang, Bugkalot, Kankanaey, and Ifugao, including lowland inhabitants such as the Ilocanos, Tagalogs and Pangasinenses, among others. The term “Ammungan” (gathering) was pop...
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16May2013CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 16 (PIA) -- A Kapampangan artist who is known for his works on wiring structures and comic strips on environmental awareness is currently taking part in the 4th Tam-Awan International Arts Festival in Baguio City. Don Reich De Dios from the City of San Fernando is exhibiting 22 wire sculptures, 50 ‘boga’ rocks, and 30 pieces of drawings. “The wire sculptures are shaped like a human and weighs 200 milligrams. It is lightweight and painted in bright red...
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15May2013BASCO, Batanes, May 15 (PIA) -- The local government of Basco hosted the 6th Kulay Festival to celebrate Basco Day last April 15-19 with chains of indigenous and colorful motifs. Basco Day on April 15 opened at 7 a.m. with a parade led by the first local government unit's (LGU) drum corps with 6 muses aboard barangay floats portraying local product designs. Each barangay had their street dancers in indigenous attire. These were followed by six barangay delegations led by athletes, municipal o...
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10May2013AGUSAN DEL SUR, May 10 (PIA) -- The province of Agusan del Sur will unveil its rich culture, natural wealth and beauty in the upcoming 21st Naliyagan Festival from June 12-17, 2013. The formal opening program on June 12 is in time with the celebration of the 115th Philippine Independence Day which will start at 4:30 in the morning with an ecumenical dawn prayer. This will be followed by the holding of the holy mass at 6 a.m. in all Parish churches in the province. While the holy mass is on-g...
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10May2013BAGUIO CITY, May 10 (PIA) -- Cordillera heritage, culture and traditions will once again be on center stage as the Chanum Foundation, in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), hold the 4th Tam-Awan International Arts Festival (TIAF) this May 15 to 19. The festival with its theme, “Jewels of the Cordillera”, will feature Cordillera heirloom jewelries, accessories and traditional tattoo artistry.This is in line with the celebration of National Heritage Mon...
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09May2013VIGAN CITY, May 9 (PIA) -- Residents recognize how the pioneers of the Vigan Ancestral Homes Association, Inc (SVAHAI) have paved the way for what Vigan is now today. Engr. Ricardo Favis recently attended a seminar on conservation of cultural heritage in Kyoto, Japan and presented a paper on how the association initiated Vigan’s conservation. Favis used to work with the Vigan city government and supported the association’s conservation efforts. He related that group of private homeowners ...
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07May2013VIGAN, May 7 -- Vigan, which was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1999 by the UNESCO, is considered the best- preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. The former Ciudad Fernandina, founded by Juan de Salcedo in the 16th century, is considered the only World Heritage City in the Philippines earning the World Heritage Centre’s (WHC) highest award for Best Practice in Sustainable Conservation and Management of World Heritage Properties. In the 40th anniversary of th...
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03May2013VIGAN CITY, May 3 (PIA) -- The first world costume festival was successfully launched during the opening day of the week-long Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival of the Arts last Saturday. Mayor Eva Marie S. Medina said the costume festival was an occasion to promote local and international fabrics which have become fashionable clothes and accessories. “The festival is also a time to promote our indigenous loom weaving industry,” she said. She said the clothing designs presented during the fes...
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03May2013KIANGAN, Ifugao, May 3 (PIA) -- The celebration of the town fiesta called “Gotad Ad Kiangan 2013” from April 28 to May 3 here included new features highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the Ifugao people. With the theme “Building on the Past in Keeping the Torch of Development and Progress Aflame thru our Cultural Identity”, the festival introduced this year woodcarving and loom weaving competitions to give visitors a glimpse of the unique culture of the town. Local off...
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03May2013TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, May 2 (PIA) -- A fenced complex, neatly tucked along the city’s main thoroughfare, yet inconspicuous for its distance from the buzz of traffic, is now fast becoming a tourism centerpiece for city tours. The complex, topped by a 1920 structure which was later rebuilt to reflect the renewed political climate in 1965, also includes at least three more buildings that broadcast to tourists of Bohol’s development priorities in the present administration. The new Bohol T...
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01May2013VIGAN CITY, May 1 (PIA) -- An elegant multi-functional Filipiniana gown designed by a Vigan artist is the country’s entry to the World Stage Design festival in Cardiff, Wales in September. Designer Jerome Vaquilar won the best costume in a single performance during the grand street parade of the first World Costume Festival (WCF), which was launched in Vigan last Saturday. The WCF marked the opening of the week-long 2013 Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival of the Arts from April 27 to May 4. The...
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26Apr2013LA TINIDAD, Benguet, April 26 (PIA) -- The 6th Ecotourism and Bindiyan Festival of the municipality of Kabayan, Benguet will be celebrated on April 27-30, 2013. Adventure packages are available for adventurists for them to discover the town’s mystical peculiarities. Visitors will also be able to appreciate the rich culture and economic activities of the people during the three-day festival. Kabayan, famous for its centuries-old mummies and Mt. Pulag, the highest peak in Luzon, will be...
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26Apr2013TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, April 26 (PIA) -- Lit by the fire of devotion to San Jose, Tagbilaranons will come out to the streets for the first time and dance to the beat of feverish street dancing on April 30. This historic event, to be participated in by nine of the city’s 15 districts, promises to be one which is highly competitive, colorful and artistic, event organizers said. In light of the historic religious event and with a corresponding opportunity for capturing countless candid moment...
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25Apr2013BAUANG, La Union, April 25 (PIA) -- Residents are going all out in paying tribute to their unique Baggak (morning star) festival which the town had been celebrating in the last 13 years. The week-long festival, which will culminate on April 28, is focused on thanking the communities and the private sector for their collective efforts in making the town progressive. The festival’s main theme, Panagyaman (Thankful), shows off the town’s arts and culture as a way of giving back to the communi...
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25Apr2013DAGUPAN CITY, April 25 (PIA) -- Dagupeños will enjoy a long weekend having two more days-off on Tuesday, April 30 and on Wednesday, May 1. April 30 was declared a special non-working day in Dagupan for residents to mark the Bangus (milk fish) festival, a highlight of the on-going festival in the city, considered the Bangus capital of the world. May 1, meanwhile, is a regular holiday to mark Labor Day in the country. Pursuant to Proclamation No. 570 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa...
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24Apr2013BAGUIO CITY,April 24 (PIA) -- “It makes us really proud in the Cordillera that a new participant, on its first try, has landed in fifth place in the only nationwide event and competition of festivals.” Thus said Department of Tourism -Cordillera Regional Director Purificacion Molintas in describing the recent win of the Kabayan street dancers in the annual gathering of the different festivals in the country. The Ibaloi performers from the mystic town of Kabayan in Benguet shined in the ...
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24Apr2013BANAUE, Ifugao, April 24 (PIA) -- About 47 volunteers from several organizations helped villagers in restoring rice fields at barangay View Point in this municipality through the indigenous way of helping each other called “Bachang” (bayanihan) recently. The one-day activity was led by the community in coordination with provincial government through the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) and the Ifugao Culture and Heritage Office (ICHO). Volunteers were from the Banaue Mu...
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23Apr2013DAGUPAN CITY, April 23 -- This year’s Pista’y Dayat (Feast of the Sea) in Pangasinan is not just about thanking the bounties of the seas or drawing tourists. It is also a toast for the environment. Provincial Administrator Rafael Baraan said the community should expect crowd-drawing events except fireworks display, which has become a tradition to open the activities. “There will be no fireworks during the entire duration of the celebration,” Baraan said last Friday which marked the ope...
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23Apr2013ANDA, Bohol, April 23 (PIA) -- Generations have scoured the seas around here, looking for the clues which connect the presence of huge clams in the ritual sites of Lamanoc, and the absence of such out-sized clams in the nearby sea. These clams, believed to be special vessels used by early pre-historic Boholanos in their offerings to the spirits, could be easily sourced out from nearby, but they have disappeared in time. Over harvested to near extinction in the following centuries, these gian...
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23Apr2013By Sally A. Atento LEGAZPI CITY, April 23 (PIA) – The provincial government of Albay led today the memorial for Albayano heroes in time for the celebration of the Daragang Magayon Festival 2013. Albay governor Joey Salceda said the memorial day for Albayano Heroes of National Liberation held every 23rd of April is a tribute aimed to highlight the legacies of the brave men and women who fought for the freedom of the province against its oppressors. The event was first observed last year. A...
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22Apr2013LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, April 22 (PIA) -- Officials of Bakun, Benguet passed a measure regulating the extraction of hidden treasures with historical, scientific or significant values in the town. Penned by Bakun Councilor Marshal Tamid-ay, Municipal Ordinance No. 06-2013 ensures the preservation and enrichment of culture, enhance the right to balance ecology, maintain peace and order among others. The ordinance covers all hunting, exploration, excavation of hidden treasures and other objects ...
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20Apr2013SAN JOSE, Antique, April 20 (PIA) -- The annual cultural celebration of the Municipality of San Jose dubbed “Tiringbanay” Festival will be held on April 29 to May 1, 2013 and it is expected to lure back Antiqueños from different parts of the world to come home. “Tiringbanay” connotes togetherness or tiriringub in local dialect, is inspired by homecoming and celebration of the town’s patron Saint Joseph, the worker. It is also the objective of the festival to promote culture and ar...
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19Apr2013BANAUE, Ifugao, April 19 (PIA) -– About 34 paddies of the famous Ifugao Rice Terraces here damaged by previous typhoons were fixed recently with the help of the provincial local government unit (PLGU). The collapsed rice paddies in Barangay Kinakin with a total volume of 158.71 cubic meters were restored through a P100,000 funding from the PLGU. According to Veronica Ngipol, project coordinator of the Ifugao Cultural Heritage Office (ICHO), the said amount was given as assistance to the ...
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15Apr2013KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato April 15 (PIA) -- North Cotabato’s Kalivungan festival delegates bagged 2nd place in the recently concluded Aliwan Festival 2013 held at the Aliw Theater, CCP Complex, Pasay City. Provincial Tourism Focal Person Ralph Ryan Rafael said the award signifies that the province is among the most competitive in the country in terms of cultural festivals North Cotabato’s festival was represented by the Ragsak dancers of Salunayan, Midsayap. Dinagyang Festival...
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15Apr2013MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, April 15 (PIA) -- The lone Islamic City in the country marked its 33rd founding anniversary Sunday with a cultural fest called Kalilang (celebration) sa Ranao. Gongs and kulintang were resounded as residents wearing colourful Maranao garb and malongs marched to the City Hall Grounds to join the city government in celebrating the richness of Maranao culture and strong history of the city and its people. Home to some 180,000 residents, Marawi is the melting pot of the...
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12Apr2013DAGUPAN CITY, April 12 (PIA) -- Locals and tourists were treated to a display of Pangasinan’s ingenuity and creativity during a grand cultural parade and float competition in Lingayen town on April 5. The float competition, dubbed “Parada na Dayew,” was one of the highlights of Pangasinan’s 433rd founding anniversary where over 30 cities and municipalities including private entities took part in the parade. The beautifully designed floats displayed the known products and festivities in...
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11Apr2013SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, April 11 (PIA) -- Public officials marked “Araw ng Kagitingan” last Tuesday recalling the sacrifices of veteran soldiers who fought to liberate the country from the Japanese troops during World War II. Grace M. Labarinto, Officer-in-Charge of the Philippine Veterans in La Union, said that the veterans laid down the foundations of the country’s democracy because they stood up to become catalysts of change in the prime of their youth. “Their love of country ...
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11Apr2013CAPAS, Tarlac, April 11 (PIA) -- Tarlac Governor Victor Yap led on Wednesday the remembrance ceremony for the Filipino and American soldiers who were part of the 1942 Death March in Capas National Shrine, Tarlac. In his keynote speech, Yap said “Paggunita sa Capas is a celebration of democracy and of gratitude for the valor of the soldiers who chose to die for the Philippines.” “71 years ago, heroes marched in thousands as payment for freedom and for defending the country that they love-...
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11Apr2013CAPAS, Tarlac, April 11 (PIA) -- Six Cordilleran veterans were extolled on Tuesday for their heroic deeds during World War II. Honorees were Private Belino Almuno (posthumous), Private Esteban Esco, Private Raymundo Gadgad, Private Alberto Bugtong, Private Robert Bellasi, and Private First Class Santos Fianza. The conferment happened during the 2013 Paggunita sa Capas which commemorates the infamous 1942 Death March. “Awardees were among the soldiers of the 66th Infantry Regiment of the Un...
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11Apr2013NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, April 11 (PIA) -- The deadline for nominees to the search for the Mga Bagong Rizal Pag-asa ng Bayan 2013 is on April 15, 2013. The Regional Development Councils will come up with nine nominees for the Regional Short-list who will represent the regions in the final selection on May 17, 2013. The search is run by the Philippine Center for Gifted Education, Inc. which is open to students from Grade 3 to College, Vocational and Out of School youths who will undergo leadership...
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11Apr2013PILAR, Bataan, April 11 (PIA) -- Bataan 2nd district representative Albert Garcia on Tuesday said the annual observance of Araw ng Kagitingan is a graphic demonstration of courage and heroism, of selfless love of country and dedication to the ideals of freedom and democracy. Speaking in behalf of his father Governor Enrique Garcia during the 71st Day of Valor rites in Mount Samat in Pilar town in Bataan, the solon said “the occasion is all about remembrance so that our children and our child...
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10Apr2013LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, April 10 (PIA) -- Unknown to many, the Lingayen Gulf played a significant role during World War II when the country’s soldiers and veterans fought in Bataan and Corregidor against the Japanese Imperial Army. Historians say the Lingayen Gulf was where General Douglas MacArthur first landed to lead the war against the Japanese and which continued in Bataan and Corregidor where the gallantry and valor of Filipinos were displayed. President Benigno Aquino III, by virtue of ...
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10Apr2013TABUK CITY, Kalinga, April 10 (PIA) – Guests and visitors to the 3rd Inandela Festival of the Naneng tribe in Kalinga were fascinated by the 70-meter long Kalinga indigenous tongue-shape glutinous cake called “inandela” by the locals here. The Inandela Festival has become an anticipated event not only among the barangays of Naneng, Dupag and Bagumbayan in Tabuk City that comprise the Naneng tribe but to the whole province. Naneng barangay chairman Rommel Balunggay said the tribe me...
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10Apr2013MANILA, April 10 (PIA) -- The Philippine government, in cooperation with the French government, opened an art exhibit featuring four national treasures from the Philippines at the Museé du Quai Branly in Paris, France Monday, April 8, 2013. Vice President Jejomar C. Binay represented President Benigno S. Aquino III in the event, dubbed “Philippines: Archipel des Echanges” (Philippines: Archipelago of Exchanges), which also features more than 300 works of art focusing on pre-colonial Phili...
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10Apr2013LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, April 10 (PIA) --The provincial government feted local writers who helped promote the Pangasinan language through their literary works. The awarding ceremony of the Pangasinan literary contest dubbed “Kurit Panlunggaring” was held in front of the Capitol building in this town during the commemoration of the 433rd founding anniversary of the province on April 5. Gov. Amado Espino, Jr. said that “Kurit Panlunggaring” was established anew to inspire younger generati...
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08Apr2013NEGROS OCC., April 8 (PIA6) -- Considered the biggest activity and the mother of all festivals in the province, the 20th Panaad sa Negros Festival kicks off today with a thanksgiving mass at 8 a.m. at the 2nd Floor of the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City. The mass, to be officiated by Msgr. Guillermo Ma. A. Gaston, will be followed by ribbon cutting ceremonies led by Governor Alfredo Marañon for the Panaad Tourism and Trade Fair showcasing the Best Products Displ...
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05Apr2013LEGAZPI CITY, April 5 (PIA) -- Albay’s Daragang Magayon Festival started on April 1 with a grand parade of street dancers and over 10 feet tall effigies of uniquely Filipino mythological characters towering over guests and spectators lined up along the eight kilometer route. Albay art curator Apo Gonzales who was also the organizer of the event said the giants called “Higantes de Albay” (Giants of Albay) will serve as a reminder to old and young Albayanos of the province’s mythologi...
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05Apr2013QUEZON CITY, April 5 (PIA) -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) joins the nation in recognizing and honoring the contribution and heroism of our unsung heroes in the observance of the Philippine Veterans Week on April 5 to 11. In line with this, the AFP in partnership with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) will take part in a series of activities in line with the week-long national observance and commemoration. With this year’s theme “Ang Beterano: Sigla at Inspirasyo...
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05Apr2013QUEZON CITY, April 5 (PIA) -- Filipino World War II veterans were honored during a ceremony held Friday at the Philippine Army Grandstand in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. The event is part of activities in observance of the Fall of Bataan, which for this year has for its theme, “Ang Beterano: Sigla at Inspirasyon ng Kabataan tungo sa Tuwid na Daan.” The Philippine Veterans Week will be observed from April 5 to April 11. A number of veterans were awarded plaques and medals in recogniti...
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01Apr2013KIANGAN, Ifugao, April 1 (PIA)-- More exciting events are in store for the public in the upcoming town fiesta celebration dubbed as “Gotad Ad Kiyangan 2013”. According to Eulalie Dulnuan, Executive Assistant to Mayor Joselito Guyguyon, the events for this year’s town fiesta celebration are interesting and exciting in efforts to develop Kiangan as an eco-tourism destination. The “Gotad Ad Kiyangan” with the theme “Building on the Past and Keeping the Torch of Development a...
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29Mar2013PALO, Leyte, March 29 (PIA) -- All roads lead to Palo, Leyte which is about seven kilometers from Tacloban City, on Good Friday as the faithful from all over Eastern Visayas flock there for the observance of Holy Week traditions that have been kept alive all through the years. Aptly, Palo was declared in the Diocesan Synod of 1910 as a center of faith and religiosity in Eastern Visayas. At center of the activities is the Archdiocese of Palo under the pastorship of Archbishop John Du and the p...
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28Mar2013LAOAG CITY, March 28 (PIA) -- While many look forward to the Lenten season as a time to take time off from the daily grind, the Catholic faithful embrace the Holy Week as a time to strengthen their faith through the Visita Iglesia. Ilocos Norte offers various pilgrimage sites for people looking for sanctuaries in this season of reflection. The practice of Visita Iglesia varies to some Ilocanos. Some visit nine churches based on the nine-day rosary novena (or praying the rosary on nine consecut...
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28Mar2013DAGUPAN CITY, Pangasinan, Mar. 28 (PIA) -- “Visiting churches can enhance and deepen the faith,” said Fr. Edwin Fernandez referring to the Catholic tradition of visiting churches or “Visita Iglesia” on Maundy Thursday. The Visita Iglesia involves going to seven churches to pray the Stations of the Cross, which mark significant incidents during the passion of Christ on his way to Calvary. Pangasinan’s top religious destination is the Shrine of the Our Lady of the Rosary in Manaoag to...
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24Mar2013PAOAY, Ilocos Norte, March 24 (PIA) -- The municipality of Paoay opened a prayer garden for pilgrims visiting the Paoay Church especially during the Holy Week. Called “Jardin de San Agustin,” the garden is built beside the church where a multipurpose building and the priest’s official house used to stand. The buildings had to be abolished two years ago to create a buffer zone around the Paoay Church as required by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UN...
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23Mar2013CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, March 23 (PIA) -- Renowned Kapampangan photographer Ruston Banal placed third in the Arts and Culture category of Sony World Photography Awards 2013 for his entry “Ritual dance of Kuraldal.” He is set to exhibit his work and receive the accolade on April 25 in London, United Kingdom. “My work is centered on the Libad tradition or a procession along the river in Betis, Gugua. I believe that if I will join any photo contest, I want something that is by natur...
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22Mar2013RIZAL, Kalinga, March 22 (PIA) -– This municipality is set to stage the 2013 Pinikpikan Festival from March 24 to 25 with the theme, “Kannawidan Salimetmetan, Panagrang-ay Pagkaykaysaan” (Preserve Traditions, Unite for Progress). 'Pinikpikan' is a traditional way of cooking duck or chicken among the Cordillerans. The leadership of Rizal made this cultural practice as an attraction to boost the local agro-industrial and tourism industry. This dish derives its flavor from the coagulate...
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19Mar2013TABUK CITY, Kalinga, March 19 (PIA) -- Three heritage conservation experts from New York, United States of America, recently met with the Kalinga Provincial Tourism Council (PTC) and the various stakeholders of the tourism industry here to talk on the importance of preserving the intangible cultural heritage and heritage sites in the province. Discussions started with Architect Roz Li, a historical sites preservationist, who talked on historic preservation and conservation and preservation...
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18Mar2013MAYOYAO, Ifugao, March 18 (PIA) -- Twelve heritage sites in the province are set to be rehabilitated through a P5 million funding from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The rehabilitation will include the restoration of damaged and collapsed walls of the rice terraces in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites in the province. The fund coursed through the UNESCO National Commission(NatCom) in Manila aims t...
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18Mar2013TINGLAYAN, Kalinga, March 18 (PIA) -– This town just celebrated its 50th founding anniversary and Unoy Festival from March 15 to 16 with the theme “Nurturing Culture of Excellence through Quality Leadership.” This year’s theme advocates President Aquino’s “tuwid na daan” with the principles of good governance manifested by excellent performance through people participation, transparency through full disclosure of government transactions, and accountable and responsible management...
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18Mar2013MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, March 18 (PIA) -- Preparations are being set for the commemoration of the 492nd Anniversary of the First Mass in the Philippines in the island town of Limasawa, Southern Leyte on March 31, 2013. History books have it that on a Saturday, March 16, 1521, the ship of Portuguese circumnavigator Ferdinand Magellan,reached Homonhon, Eastern Samar. “The natives seemed to be friendly. Unlike other people who were fearful of white men, the Visayans approached them on their...
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17Mar2013GUIUAN, Eastern Samar, March 17 (PIA) -- With a two-storey galleon-like structure and the Magellan Cross as the backdrop, the town of Guiuan, Eastern Samar recently commemorated the 492nd celebration of the landing of Portuguese circumnavigator Ferdinand Magellan on Homonhon Island on March 16, 1521 which led to the discovery of the Philippines. Mayor Annaliz Gonzales-Kwan said the celebration was highlighted by a commemorative mass at Sitio Cantilado in Barangay Pagbabangnan with Eastern Sama...
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16Mar2013ROXAS, Isabela, March 16 (PIA) -- The provincial government of Isabela through the Isabela Culture and Arts Council (ICAC) honored cultural groups and artists in an awarding ceremony held at Roxas Astrodome last March 13. Constante Andres, executive director of ICAC, said the awards will serve as an inspiration to Isabelinos whose interests are in literary arts and local government units which are supporting arts and culture promotion in their respective localities. Andres said ICAC has been ...
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16Mar2013LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, March 16 (PIA) -- A multi-cultural theatrical show which depicts the origin of this capital town will be staged by local talented actors on March 25 at the municipal gym in line with the month-long celebration of the Strawberry Festival. Dubbed “La Trinidad shi Bunguit tan Kafagway,” meaning La Trinidad in Benguet and Baguio City, the show presents the history of the Valley in music and drama productions. Based on research, the town was established before the cr...
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12Mar2013LUBUAGAN, Kalinga, March 12 (PIA) -- With the theme “Weaving our diversity towards a sustainable, cultural and economic progress,” this municipality celebrated its Laga Festival from March 8 to 9. Laga is the Kalinga term for weave, a particular ethnic handicraft that this town is becoming famous with. Lubuagan is known for producing various Kalinga-inspired woven clothes which are now gaining popularity as these are being turned into fashion clothes, bags, shoes, accessories, home decors...
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11Mar2013CALBAYOG CITY, Samar, March 11 (PIA) -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) admitted six writers coming from Eastern Visayas to represent Region 8 to the 2013 Taboan National Writers Festival last February 7-9 in Dumaguete City. Among the delegates from Leyte were Dr. Victor N. Sugbo, Prof. Merlie M. Alunan (Professor Emeritus) and Prof. Joycie D. Alegre of UP Tacloban, while from Samar were Phil Harold L. Mercurio of NwSSU, Herminigildo Sanchez of Katig Writers Network Inc...
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08Mar2013TABUK CITY, Kalinga, Mar.8 (PIA) - - A United States-based organization dedicated to the preservation of historic architecture and sites in the Philippines will hold on March 13 a dialogue with indigenous peoples of Kalinga on cultural heritage preservation. Bakaspilipinas represented by photojournalist and historic photographer Trix Rosen and two others will be here for the dialogue to present photographic documentation of Kalinga culture and architecture gathered long ago. The one-day dia...
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08Mar2013KIANGAN, Ifugao, Mar. 8 (PIA) -- An open air museum will soon rise at the rice terraces cluster of Barangay Nagacadan here which is a World Heritage Site inscribed as a living cultural landscape. According to Municipal Tourism Officer Eulalie Dulnuan, the project funded by the Ford Foundation will start this April. The museum will be developed to establish a sustainable community-based eco-cultural tourism industry in the heritage site of Barangay Nagacadan. This, hopefully, will contribute...
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08Mar2013CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, March 8 (PIA) -- National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), through its Taboan Writer’s Festival, is set to fete today five Kapampangan literary legends for their contributions in the development and sustainability of Central Luzon’s most widely spoken vernacular. In a statement, NCCA said that honorees are Romeo Rodriguez for cultural advocacy, Virgilio Calilung for poetry, Jaspe Dula for crissotan, Ofrecinia dela Pena for zarzuela, and a posthumou...
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06Mar2013MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, March 6 (PIA) -- The personal belongings, rare books and articles that featured a Southern Leyteno national figure during and after World War II now has a home at the city-owned Maasin City College (MCC), this city. “The Ruperto Kadava Kangleon memorabilia room in the second floor here at MCC will be accessible to the public,” City Mayor Maloney Samaco told Philippine Information Agency (PIA) as he led guests, visitors, and the Kangleon kin on a guided tour W...
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05Mar2013CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, March 5 (PIA) -- The Philippine Center for Gifted Education Inc. is now open to nominations for the Search for “Mga Bagong Rizal: Pag-asa ng Bayan” Award 2013. The PCGE decided to make the search a biennial event after successfully mounting it in 2011. The event is a search for children and youth who exude exemplary performance in their own fields. They are gathered for activities that will boost their leadership skills and acquaint them further with the life of nation...
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05Mar2013MANILA, March 5 -- The Mobile Theater Foundation (formerly Tanghalang Sta. Ana) will stage a pre-Lenten production entitled “Martir sa Golgota”, a senakulo play based on the life and passion of Jesus Christ on March 22, at 7:30 p.m. and March 23, at 3 p.m. at the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (Little Theater). Directed by Lou Veloso, “Martir sa Golgota” features around 70 actors, mostly volunteer residents of Sta. Ana and invited TV, movie and sta...
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02Mar2013LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, Mar. 2 (PIA) -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has approved eight project proposals for implementation this year in the province. NCCA’s thrusts is preservation of heritage, culture and traditions in aid of grants that could be accessed by artists, arts organizations, non-government organizations, private organizations, and national government agencies. According to Brian Camhit, member of the Committee of Northern Cultural Communities–NCC...
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01Mar2013MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, March 1 (PIA) -- The late Col. Ruperto K. Kangleon is a national treasure says Maasin City College (MCC) President, Mayor Maloney Samaco. “The properties and memories of the only cabinet member, Senator of the Philippines and war hero, Col. Ruperto Kadava Kangleon, who came from Macrohon, Southern Leyte will bolster the image of the school as it becomes a part of the school facilities," Samaco said. He said, “ The life and works of the late Kangleon will...
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28Feb2013DIPOLOG CITY, Feb 28 (PIA) - - The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in collaboration with the city government of Dipolog hosted the very significant artistic extravaganza, the First International Gongs and Bamboo Music Festival held at Dipolog Sports Complex (DSC) on February 16-22. The Tunog-tugan Festival was made possible through the creative institutional partnership of NCCA, Musicological Society of the Philippines, and the University of the Philippines Center for Eth...
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28Feb2013TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental, Feb. 28 (PIA) -- Tangub, this tiny and once obscure city nestled at the foothills of the Mt. Malindang Ranges Natural Park (MMRNP), marks its “Ruby” or 45th founding anniversary on February 28. Embraced by the placid waters of Panguil Bay, Tangub became a city on March 31, 1967 by virtue of Republic Act 5131 passed by the House of Representatives, but was formally inaugurated only on February 28, the following year. Mayor Alfonso D. Tan was the last munic...
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27Feb2013DIPOLOG CITY, Feb. 27 (PIA) -- Following a positive feedback from schools and local government units (LGUs) to the “Tunog-tugan festival” outreach program, Mayor Evelyn T. Uy has expressed her gratitude for the support extended by schools and LGUs to the activity. Uy thanked her constituents, and students, faculty and staff, school officials of Colegio de San Francisco Javier of the municipality of Rizal, St. Joseph College in Sindangan town, local government officials and residents of the ...
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26Feb2013ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Feb. 26 (PIA6) – A compact disc (CD) of “Tunog Capiznon” album is now on sale at the Capiz Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO). The album comprises popular Visayan folk songs and original compositions of budding songwriters. The CD was launched in time with the 118th birthday of Capiceña diva and National Artist for Music Jovita Fuentes last Feb. 15. To come out with the album, the provincial government and the National Commission for Culture an...
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26Feb2013BANGUED, Abra, Feb. 26(PIA) -- The Paredes Ancestral Home in this capital town was inaugurated last February 23 as a national historical site on the occasion of the 3rd Miki Festival of the Bangued Town Fiesta. Deputy Director Carminda R. Arevalo of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) installed the landmark of the Paredes Ancestral Home as historical site. The house located along Santiago Street, Bangued, Abra was the birthplace of the popular Don Quintin Parede...
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26Feb2013MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Feb. 26 (PIA) -- The memorabilia of the late war hero, Col. Ruperto K. Kangleon is scheduled to be transferred tomorrow, February 27 from Saint Joseph College (SJC) to the city-run Maasin City College (MCC) said Maasin City Investment Officer Willy Justimbaste in a phone patch over radio station DyDM. The scheduled date of the transfer will coincide with the 55th death anniversary of Kangleon, a former secretary of the National Defense and senator. "A more histo...
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25Feb2013DAVAO CITY, Feb. 25 (PIA) -- The Araw ng Dabaw Celebration kicked off officially, Monday, in a simple ceremony sans Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio who was on official leave of absence. The affair was well attended though by local government officials from members of the city council, department heads of the city government, representatives of the diplomatic corps, regional directors of line government agencies, police and the military. In a statement read by Jason Magnaye, acting chief of the City ...
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23Feb2013PAGADIAN CITY, Feb. 23 -- The National Commission for Culture And the Arts (NCCA) in cooperation with the province of Zamboanga del Sur, brought world-class dancers who performed at the Megayon Stage, Dao, this city during the Philippine Visual Arts Festival (PVAF) on February 7-11, 2013. Dubbed “Sayaw Pinoy,” one of the seven flagship projects of the Philippine Arts Festival, it is a dance concert that tours all over the country to showcase the Pinoys’ talent in dance such as ballet, ...
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23Feb2013BAGUIO CITY, Feb. 23 (PIA)-- Baguio is set to showcase the city’s tourist spots on the city-sponsored float for the Grand Float Parade of the Panagbenga Festival 2013 on Sunday. Personnel of the City Building and Architect Office (CBAO) are now finalizing the float which will be joining 18 other floats of different companies, organizations, and other sectors in the much anticipated parade of flower-laden floats. CBAO Draftsman Architect Cliff Richard Ham said the city government has decided...
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22Feb2013TAGUM CITY, Feb 22 (PIA) -- International and local artists made Tagum City a hub during the 12th Musikahan sa Tagum Festival slated in the city from February 19 to 24, 20. But more than that, the Festival gave the artists a chance to extend assistance to the survivors of typhoon Pablo in Compostela Valley through their music. World-renowed violinist Alfonso “Coke” Bolipata and his students Pundaquit Virtuosi of Zambales filled the Atrium of the New City Hall of Tagum with soulful music on...
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22Feb2013Residents here marked the annual commemoration of the martyrdom of Reverend Father Jose Apolonio G. Burgos whose heroism continues to exist in every Filipino. Mayor Riolita Balbalan said the event was an opportunity to uphold Father Burgos’ sacrifices and heroism which helped brought freedom that Filipinos enjoy today. This town derived its name from the martyred priest. “The deeds of our beloved Father Burgos ignited the aspirations of our Filipino ancestors in seeking our country’s fre...
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22Feb2013MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon, Feb 22 (PIA) -- This year’s "Kaamulan” festival reels off here today, Feb. 22, in a splendor of cultural rituals, songs, dances, and many more colorful presentations seen only in this part of the country. Governor Alex Calingasan said this ethnic festival enables tourists to learn about the rich culture and heritage of the Bukidnon tribes. “Kaamulan festival showcases what makes us matchless like the display of authentic art of woodwork, beadwork, patchwork, bas...
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21Feb2013TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, Feb. 20 (PIA) -- The local government of Bohol entered into an agreement with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) formalizing Bohol’s hosting of this year’s four-day celebration of creative ingenuity of Asians in the field of cultural community theater work. Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto representing the province signed the memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Deputy Executive Director Marlene Ruth Sanchez signing for the NCCA. With the MOA, Bohol is...
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20Feb2013TAGUM CITY, Feb. 20 -- The week-long 12th Musikahan sa Tagum Festival officially opens at the Atrium of the New Tagum City Hall at 4 p.m., February 19. “The opening will feature Musikahan Exhibits, the Creativity Fair, the Trading Post and of course the launch of the 2013 MTV Competition through a Celebratory Concert,” Tagum City Tourism Council Chairperson Alma Uy said. Uy said they are reinventing this year’s Musikahan Festival because it will not only be about music competitions bu...
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20Feb2013PAGADIAN CITY, Feb 19 (PIA) - - Driven by the passion to express themselves through painting, visual artists from all over the country gathered at Megayon Stage, Dao in this city on Feb. 7-11 for the Philippine Visual Arts Festival. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in cooperation with the provincial government of Zamboanga del Sur through Governor Antonio H. Cerilles sponsored the event with the theme, “Ani ng Sining” and its sub-theme, “Celebrating Icons.” ...
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19Feb2013KALIBO, Aklan, Feb. 19 (PIA) -- The Intercontinental Hotel in Makati City will feature Aklan’s cuisine, delicacies, piña cloth and other products from March 1-24. In his letter to the Sangguniang Bayan of Kalibo, Albert Menez, chairman of the Kalibo Sto. Ati-atihan Festival Inc. (Kasafi), he said distinct Aklanon foods, particularly the “binakoe nga Manok” and “inubaran” will be featured for three weeks at the hotel. Menez said the hotel will be offering the Aklanon cuisine in thei...
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18Feb2013TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, Feb. 18 (PIA) -- A more vibrant tourism campaign for Davao del Norte can be expected now that the Davao Tourism Council has been re-energized and a new set of officer inducted. “The Provincial Tourism Council officers will help us realize our tourism thrusts which are hinged on three strategic directions,” Provincial Tourism Officer Noel Daquioag said Monday during the induction of the new set of officers of the Davao del Norte Provincial Tourism Council by Gove...
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16Feb2013TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Feb 16 (PIA) -- At least 40 seasoned writers from Eastern Visayas will gather today, Saturday, at the Leyte Normal University, this city, for the second Katig Writers Regional Taboan highlighting the National Arts Month celebration in Eastern Visayas. According to Harold Mercurio, National Committee on Literary Arts (NCLA) coordinator for Eastern Visayas, the participants will come from Leyte provinces, Biliran, Samar provinces including writers from Capul in Northern Sama...
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15Feb2013ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Feb. 15 (PIA) -- The countrywide tour of “Sayaw Pinoy” project of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) will be in Capiz on February 18 to 19 for a series of dance performances in view of the National Arts Month celebration. The presentation will feature the Quezon City Ballet, Kislap Sining Dance Company of the Philippine Normal University and Saint Louis University Dance Troupe in Baguio City. “Sayaw Pinoy will perform at Pontevedra as well as Sigma...
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15Feb2013GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Feb. 15 (PIA) -- The country’s Tuna Capital is celebrating this month a unique festivity that brings together in harmony the rich heritage and vibrant culture of the city’s tri-people. This year’s Kalilangan Festival is a showcase of the cultural abundance out of the mutual respect nurtured for many years by the Indigenous Peoples (IPs), Muslims and the Christian populations who lived in the area. “Because we are united, we want to highlight the peaceful coexistenc...
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15Feb2013BAGUIO CITY, Feb. 15 (PIA) - - Bang-iw Art Society – a Baguio-based group, in partnership with Komikon (Komiks Convention) Manila, had conducted a convention for “Komiks” (comics magazine) artists and enthusiasts in this Summer capital in efforts to create interest and appreciation of comics as an art. Bang-iw Art Society president Gabriel Dela Cruz, in an interview, disclosed that aside from promoting the art here in the City, the event aims to start a noise on comics as an art, ...
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14Feb2013BANAUE, Ifugao, Feb. 14 (PIA)--The provincial government of Ifugao will launch the “Bachang Ad Bannawor" (Bayanihan in Banaue) and a photography workshop at barangays Bocos and Viewpoint here in line with continuing efforts to preserve the rice terraces and the environment. Maribelle Bimohya, the Acting Project Coordinator, said this activity seeks to revive the system of 'bachang or baddang' ( bayanihan or free labor) as a way of life of the Ifugao people, especially in the management ...
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14Feb2013DAGUPAN CITY, Feb. 14 (PIA) -- The celebration of the Chinese New Year is the time of the year when Chinese and Filipino communities bond and usher in new hopes and good luck. Artemio Cheng, Jr., a “lao shi” or teacher, said the celebration of the Lunar New Year or the Spring Festival was meant to inculcate the culture and values of the Chinese society among the youth, Chinese and Filipinos alike. “Most of the Filipino traditions every New Year have been basically influenced by Chinese ...
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14Feb2013These are the “must –see” festivals in Pampanga which are uniquely Kapampangan in character and rendition. 1. Ibon-Ebun festival - The 6th Ibon Ebun Festival was held February 8-10. The fest is a tribute to the lucrative duck egg industry in Candaba. The wild Philippine duck known as Dumara successfully breeds in the Candaba swamps. The third day saw the Grand Street Dancing Parade, Karerang Itik, Best Dressed Itik Pageant and the Itik Cooking Contest. The first two d...
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14Feb2013PAMPANGA, Feb 14 (PIA) -- No date for Heart’s Day? Don’t worry. You can still be in Love via a Kapampangan Poem Book. Entitled “Pamicalugud” (Love for one another), the book contains over 80 works composed by poet Arturo Tolentino or more popularly known as “ArtDax” each written in Kapampangan and English texts. “Ninu Ica O Irig Cu?” (Who Art Thou, Oh My Love?), Nung Tutu.. (If It Is True..), Caulan Daca, Uman Daca, Samban Daca (Holding You, Kissing You, Loving You), E Dapat ...
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13Feb2013SAN JOSE, Antique, Feb 13 (PIA6) -- In an effort to win the respect of the residents of Panay Bukidnon and ensure that development in the community will be unhampered, the Philippine Army facilitated a consultative meeting of 25 indigenous people leaders representing 25 barangays in Tapaz, Capiz, in central Panay. Datu Ramon Bayaan, who is a Manobo tribal leader from North Cotabato and the Calinog Indigenous People's Organization with the support of the 61st Infantry Battalion and the 310st Inf...
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12Feb2013TAGUM CITY, Feb. 12 --Thirteen artists who have volunteered their talent and effort have painted their own vision of Tagum City’s past, present and future, depicted in up to 80 paintings now on display at the Grand Mall of Tagum City starting Monday, February 11. “Tagumpay ng Tagum is an art exhibit which will showcase the destinations, landmarks, and monuments of Tagum," exhibition curator Nestor Horfilla said during the opening of the art exhibit, Monday. These are the artists’ vis...
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12Feb2013PANGASINAN, Feb. 12 (PIA) -- Literary works written in Pangasinense continue to enrich the province’s native language with the conduct of the second “Kurit Panlunggaring.” Since its launch last year, “Kurit Panlunggaring,” which means literary contest, has attracted dozens of Pangasinan writers whose works have deepened the residents’ understanding of their native tongue. Ma. Luisa Elduayan, chief of the provincial tourism operations division, said the “Kurit Panlunggaring” is...
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11Feb2013ALABEL, Sarangani, Feb 11 (PIA) -- The Philippine Veterans Bank (PBV) has brought its World War II (WWII) traveling exhibit to Sarangani at the provincial capitol lobby for viewing and appreciation by the public. The exhibit dubbed, “War of Our Fathers” came from Koronadal City’s recently-held Hinugyaw Festival, before it opened for the first time in Sarangani. The exhibit features World War II photographs, memorabilia, and artifacts with new addition of historical files and photos abou...
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08Feb2013LEGAZPI CITY, Feb. 8 (PIA) -- Ibalong, Bicol’s epic battle between humans and monsters portrayed in action during Legazpi City’s Ibalong Festival, will come alive onstage starting today, February 8, to March 3 at Tanghalang Aurelio V. Tolentino of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Ibalong the Musical will show all the exciting battle scenes, artistically designed set and costumes including that of the mighty Handyong and alluring Oryol, haunting ethnic music and distinct Bicolano cult...
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07Feb2013TACLOBAN CITY Leyte, Feb 7 (PIA) -- The Department of Education in Eastern Visayas has started preparations for its hosting of two big national events, the National Talent Festival on April 6-11 and the National School Press Conference on April 7-12, 2013. During the Convergence Meeting held at the DepEd Regional Office on February 5, DepEd 8 Regional Director Dr. Luisa Bautista-Yu encouraged the various government agencies and DepEd officials from all over the region to collaborate with the ho...
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05Feb2013ILOILO CITY, Feb 5 (PIA) -- National cultural icons for the K-12 Curriculum can be viewed in an exhibit at the University of the Philippines in the Visayas (UPV) Iloilo City Campus. This traveling exhibit on the Pambansang Sagisag Kultura para sa Batayang Edukasyong K-12 (Cultural Icons for the K-12 Curriculum) is part of the cultural education program of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd). The exhibit features cu...
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05Feb2013VIGAN CITY, Feb. 5 (PIA) -- Locals revived traditional practices that Ilocano elders passed on in the annual Kannawidan Ylocos festival from January 29 to February 3. Now on its fourth year, the Kannawidan (local term for traditional practice) festival was also an occasion to strengthen the Ilocano culture, recognize Ilocos Sur's sons and daughters who brought honor to their province, celebrate abundant harvest or just to celebrate the Ilocano spirit that continues to drive locals to boost thei...
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05Feb2013QUEZON CITY, Feb. 5 (PIA) -- The Philippines will soon have two national flowers after the Senate approved on third and final reading a bill declaring Waling-Waling as a national flower, aside from Sampaguita. Under the proposed legislation, Waling-Waling is declared as another national flower, together with Sampaguita, which was declared national flower of the Philippines by virtue of Proclamation No. 652 on February 1, 1934 by Governor –General Frank Murphy. Senator Edgardo Angara, Cha...
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01Feb2013PAGADIAN CITY, Feb. 1 (PIA) -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), National Committee for Visual Arts will showcase Philippine Visual Arts Festival in Pagadian City on Feb. 7 -11 in celebration of the National Arts Month. In a media forum held last week at the Subanen Hall, Provincial Government Center, Barangay Dao this city, NCCA Deputy Executive Director Marlene Sanchez said this year’s festival theme is “Ani ng Sining” with its sub-theme, “Celebrating Icons....
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31Jan2013LEGAZPI CITY, Jan. 31 (PIA) -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is encouraging local artists to engage in community-based festivals in the Bicol Region to bring out the artistic brilliance of the Filipinos. NCCA is spearheading a campaign on cultural policies of the Philippines to encourage local communities to promote their festivals, said Lutgardo Labad, NCCA National Committee on Dramatic Arts head said over the weekend. “The community-based festival, Labad said, i...
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30Jan2013KALIBO, Aklan, Jan 30 (PIA6) -- Tricycle drivers in Kalibo are being urged to be effective partners in the town’s drive to push its local tourism industry. The appeal to be partners for Kalibo’s progressive tourism industry was issued here by Benny Jones Mendoza, Traffic PNCO of Kalibo Police Station during the several batches of orientation/seminar for tricycle drivers who are applying or renewing their Motorized Tricycle Operators Permit (MTOPs) conducted this month at the municipal hal...
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28Jan2013ILOILO CITY, Jan. 28 (PIA6) -- Support for emerging Ilonggo film makers is being drummed up by the organizers of the third Iloilo International Film Festival ongoing here. Screening of films started January 20 and will run till January 31 at the Cinematheque, city proper. Ilonggos have been urged to watch the films as a way of showing support according to the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) which has partnered with the Iloilo City government for such endeavor. FDCP...
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28Jan2013TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, Jan. 28 (PIA) -- Various Rondalla groups in the country can now take part in the world-famous Musikahan sa Tagum Festival 2013 slated in the city on February 19 to 24. “Musikahan is not only the country’s longest-running music festival but it is also one of the most-attended with thousands of revellers coming to the city to witness the various competitions,” Tagum City Tourism Council chairperson Alma Uy said. Uy said Rondal-Awit or the pluked string ensemble...
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28Jan2013ILOILO CITY, Jan 28 (PIA6) -- The success and drawing appeal of Iloilo’s Dinagyang Festival has been attributed to the inter-working relationships of various sectors now officially recognized as public-private partnership. Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog acknowledged this in his message wherein he formally opened the 2013 Dinagyang Festival Kasadyahan Regional Cultural Competition, Jan. 26, at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand. At the forefront of this joint endeavor are the city governme...
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28Jan2013LUNA, Apayao, Jan 28 (PIA) -- Four officials of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) were formally adopted as sons and daughter of Apayao after a resolution passed by the legislators. JICA Minister for Health Akio Isomata, Second Minister for Health Dinichi Nita, Chief Project Advisor Dr. Makoto Tobe, and Minister for Economic Affairs Fude Takasyohi, including Health Undersecretary for Luzon Gerardo Bayugo were formally declared Yapayaos (residents of Apayao) after the ceremonial a...
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25Jan2013DAVAO CITY-It will be an endless week of singing and celebration as more than a hundred bands have indicated their intention and commitment to join Tagum City’s 2013 Music festival slated on Feberuary 19 to 24, 2013. “More than 100 bands are joining and will be playing their music for Tagum’s fund-raising activity for the victims of typhoon Pablo,” Tagum City Tourism Council chairperson Alma Uy said. Uy said the bands are only some of the musicians who have responded to the city’s ap...
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25Jan2013BAGUIO CITY, Jan. 25 (PIA) -- The mountain resort town of Sagada in Mountain Province is gearing for the staging of its town fiesta and and the third "Etag (preserved pork meat)" Festival scheduled on January 31 to February 4 with more visitors expected. The Sagada town fiesta and Etag Festival will kick off with a civic and street-dancing parade on January 31 to be participated by different government offices, non-government organizations, barangays, schools, other groups, and guests along t...
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25Jan2013In a few days, the world will witness once again a grand spectacle, the Dinagyang Festival 2013. For this year, the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Incorporated and the Iloilo City government chose the tagline, “A Fusion of Boom and Grandeur,” as the theme for the celebration of this famous and world-renowned festival. In a media release, Iloilo City Tourism Officer Benito Jimena said that it took several one-liners such as World-class! Over the top, Societal Responsibility and Soci...
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25Jan2013QUEZON CITY, Jan 25 (PIA) -- The country commemorates today the 80th birth anniversary of former President Corazon "Cory" Aquino. Malacañang, in a statement Thursday, announced that to mark the birth anniversary of “the undying symbol of our nation’s freedom,” the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) have published a multimedia historical series on Aquino as “Commander in Chief and defender of the Fifth Republic" at www.gov.ph. The statemen...
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25Jan2013DAVAO CITY, Jan 25 (PIA) -- The grand prize winner of this year’s Musikahan sa Tagum Festival slated on February 19 to 24 can win up to P250,000 so expect the best chorale performances in this part of the world. “But only the choral group that will win all the four genres will get the grand prize of P250,000,” Tagum City Tourism Council Chairperson Alma Uy said during a press conference held in Abreeza Friday. The four genres for the choral competition during the Musikahan Festival inclu...
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23Jan2013CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, Jan. 23 (PIA) – In celebration of the National Arts Month (NAM), the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) will hold the fifth installment of Cinema Rehiyon in the University of the Philippines Los Banos campus (UPLB) from February 5 to 8, 2013. Guided by this year’s theme of “Nurturing Cinemas of Home,” Cinema Rehiyon will showcase the works of Filipino filmmakers from all over the Philippines which will be shown in UPLB’s DL Umali Auditorium and S...
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23Jan2013TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan, Jan. 23 (PIA) -- National Artist Napoleon Abueva’s “The Rice Planter” will mark the boundary of Cordon town and Santiago City in Isabela as part of the latter city’s tourism promotion. Santiago City government employee Juanito Ocampo said the choice of the marker was personally offered by the multi-awarded Abueva to him during his visit to the national artist’s residence last year. Like Abueva, Ocampo is also an artist from the University of the Phili...
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21Jan2013BANGUED, Abra, Jan. 21 (PIA) -- The inauguration and laying of the cornerstone in the residence of the late Don Quintin Paredes in Bangued as a National Historical Site is set on February 23. Preparations for this historical event are now being undertaken by the descendants of the late Paredes in partnership with the National Historical Institute (NHI), the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), and the local government unit (LGU) of Bangued after the 15th Congress, through Senate Resolution No...
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21Jan2013TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, Jan. 21 -- The lead dancer of Tribu Sarimanok Caryl Soledad was declared as one of the top three candidates in the prestigious Search for Sinulog Queen during the coronation night on January 18, Cebu City Sports Center. The 19-year old lass is also the reigning Ms. Lanao del Norte. Soledad bagged the second-runner up crown from among 11 candidates who joined in the annual search. The Festival Queen title went to a third-year Mass Communication student Jamie Herrell re...
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21Jan2013The Philippines being the only and oldest Christian country in Asia is rife with religious activities that also serve as economic avenues for the residents and traders. In Cebu, the feast of the city’s patron Sr. Sto. Nino paved the creation of a grand festival, the Sinulog, where crowds have been growing annually in attendance. But long before the Sinulog became the Mother of all Festivals in the Philippines, people from all over the province and nearby islands were already devotees of the ...
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20Jan2013TABUK CITY, Kalinga, Jan. 20 –- Silent drill, acrobatic show, ballet performance and the Gangnam style dance craze will be new attractions in the upcoming 18th Kalinga Province Founding Anniversary and Ullalim Festival 2013 scheduled on February 14-17, in this capital town. During the Kalinga Provincial Development Council meeting presided by Governor Jocel Baac at the Grand Zion Hotel, the body was presented with these new attractions which will be a first time for the province of Kalinga an...
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19Jan2013QUEZON CITY, Jan. 19 -- President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared January 23 of every year as “Araw ng Republikang Filipino, 1899” to commemorate the inauguration of the First Philippine Republic, Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. announced on Friday. Ochoa said Proclamation No. 533, which the President signed on January 9, aims to promote awareness, especially among the youth, on the significance of this chapter in Philippine history that marked the culmination of the Philippine ...
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17Jan2013BAGUIO CITY, Jan. 17 (PIA) - - The city government of Baguio and the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. (BFFFI) formally launched on Wednesday, Panagbenga 2013, the 18th staging of the Baguio Flower Festival in a kapihan forum at the Baguio Country Club (BCC). With the theme, “A Blooming Odyssey,” this year’s Panagbenga promises to be lot more fun and colorful and full of surprises to delight the expected two million visitors for the duration of the month-long festival. Mayor ...
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17Jan2013CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, January 16 (PIA) -- The family of the late San Fernando mayor Vivencio Cuyugan, also known as the first socialist mayor in the Philippines, gathered during his 118th birth commemoration sponsored by the City Government at the Cuyugan residence last Sunday. Present during the occasion were the local hero’s relatives led by his children Vivencio Jr. and Silvestre. In his speech, Mayor Oscar Rodriguez recounted the valiant contributions of former Cuyugan to the c...
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16Jan2013TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, Jan 16 -- Arriving in the Queen City of the South on January 15 for its fifth consecutive participation in Sinulog Festival, the Lanao del Norte contingent is all set to showcase the colorful "Sarimanok Festival" of Kolambugan town. Collectively known as "Tribu Sarimanok," this is the biggest contingent this fast-rising province is sending to the annual festival here in Cebu City. “We have about 370 people comprising our contingent. This year, our performance is fille...
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15Jan2013ILOILO CITY, Jan 15 (PIA6) -- All is set for the religious festivities for this year’s Dinagyang Festival. San Jose Parish Church Priest Reverend Father Raymund Alcayaga, OSA said the festivities will start with a Walk with Jesus at Dawn procession on January 16 which will pass by the 10 barangays of the parish to be followed by a mass as soon as the procession arrives at the church. The dawn procession signals the start of the nine-day novena for the Feast of Sr. Sto. Nino. At 5:30 p.m....
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15Jan2013“The environment is a gift, let’s put our minds together and we can still save it.” This is the direct message of the song composed by a Cebuano priest, his offering to the patron of Cebu, Sr. Sto. Nino. For so long and even in his homilies, Rev. Father Charles Louis Jayme has always been passionate in encouraging the public to act on the urgency of the call of nature. And there is no other opportune time than to make the call by means of a song in time for the Holy Child’s - the Sto. ...
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14Jan2013TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, Jan 14 – The more than 300-member contingent of Lanao del Norte collectively known as ‘ Tribu Sarimanok’ is all geared up for the world-renowned Sinulog Festival of Cebu City. Tribu Sarimanok will be showcase the colorful and culturally-rich festival of Kolambugan, a town in Lanao del Norte. The team has consistently won in both the Sinulog showdown and street dancing categories making it a crowd favorite in the annual competition. “We want to show the world th...
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14Jan2013KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Jan 14 (PIA) -- The executive official of the city government of Koronadal in South Cotabato announced last week that the Philippine Veterans Bank’s exhibit will now be an annual feature in the city. Mayor Peter B. Miguel said the exhibit dubbed the "War of our Fathers" is an important tribute to the Filipino freedom fighters and should be presented to the public as a reminder of the greatness of the ancient warriors. The exhibit depicted the role of Filipinos ...
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14Jan2013ROMBLON, Romblon, Jan 14 (PIA) -- The province of Romblon was declared a Heritage Province for 2012, by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) through its Sub-Commission on Cultural Heritage (SCH). Fort San Andres, a Spanish fort, was identified as a priority for the restoration work under its monuments and sites project. This development has brought smiles to some local and foreign residents who are so concerned with the declining state or condition of Fort San Andres which w...
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12Jan2013STA. FE, Nueva Vizcaya, Jan 12 (PIA) – This town is truly blessed for having a year round Santa. Liwayway Caramat, 54, finds it normal to return the blessings she has received in life. Thus, she gives fellow villagers financial assistance for medicines, development projects in the villages, scholarship grants for poor but deserving students or donations for programs and events. “I grew up poor, but my father taught me the power of giving,” she says. “I learned to give not because I ha...
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11Jan2013ROMBLON, Romblon, Jan. 11 (PIA) -- The third staging of the Romblon Marble Festival which starts today promises to be bigger, better and more exciting to usher in the new year. There are 20 participants for the marble carving contest and 18 for the lathe machine design category. The provincial government will provide cash prizes for the three categories: marble carving, lathe machine artwork and marble shop design/decoration. The total prize at stake is about P100,000. This marble trade fai...
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10Jan2013MANILA, Jan 10 (PIA) -- Archi[types/text] 2013, the flagship project of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ (NCCA) National Committee on Architecture and Allied Arts, will showcase Philippine architecture and the production space in the country. This is part of the Philippine Arts Festival (PAF) in celebration of the National Arts Month (NAM) in February. The theme of PAF is “Ani ng Sining” with this year’s subtheme “Celebrating Icons.” The distinct and appealing ...
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08Jan2013LEGAZPI CITY, Jan. 8 (PIA) -- Albay’s tourism gets another boost as one of its major theatrical fares is brought into the limelight with the staging of the “Daragang Magayon, an Istorya ni Mayon” on February 8 at the main theater of the Cultural Center of the Philippines in Manila. The mythical tale of “Daragang Magayon…” depicts the legendary origin of Albay as a province and that of Mayon Volcano, depicting a story of enduring love and sacrifice. Previous artistic renditions of ...
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08Jan2013KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Jan 8 (PIA) --The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) unveils today Tuesday, the historical marker at “Fort Pikit” in Pikit, Cotabato. NHCP declared Fort Pikit as a national historical landmark by virtue of NCHP Resolution No.7 dated April 24, 2012. The unveiling ceremony was organized by NHCP in cooperation with the Provincial Government of Cotabato and the Municipality of Pikit. NHCP Executive Director Ludovico D. Badoy and Pikit M...
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08Jan2013MAASIN CITY, So Leyte, Jan. 8 (PIA) -- Maasin City Tourism Office is now preparing for the Sakay-Sakay Festival in honor of Senior Sto. Niṅo on Sunday, January 20. The Sakay-Sakay Festival will have competitions on different categories such as the Icon decoration category, Higante category, the Bangka category, Pumpboat category and Street Dancing category according to City Mayor Maloney Samaco over DyDM this morning. The street dancing will be conducted along the city proper streets. It wil...
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07Jan2013KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato Jan. 7 (PIA) -- The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) is encouraging the Muslim communities in Soccksargen Region to watch “Thy Womb,”. “I am highly endorsing the Filipino movie, Thy Womb, to our Muslim communities,” Atty. Guialil R. Kanda, NCMF provincial director in General Santos City wrote in his letter of endorsement dated January 4. “(Thy Womb is) "a good vehicle in communicating interfaith and ecumenical spirit...
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05Jan2013SASMUAN, Pampanga, January 5 (PIA) -- Devotees from various parts of the country will once again flock to Sasmuan town beginning tomorrow for the start of its annual five day dancing ritual dubbed “Kuraldal Atlung Ari” which coincides with the Feast of the Three Kings. In a press statement, the Municipal government of Sasmuan said “the tradition is in honor of the town’s patron saint- St. Lucy which is believed to grant ardent wishes specifically immediate cure to illnesses and a long-a...
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04Jan2013CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Jan. 4 (PIA) – Cagayan de Oro City Local Government observed the 116th Martyrdom of Gat Jose P. Rizal together with the representatives of different government agencies, soldiers from 4th Infantry Division (4ID), Philippine National Police (PNP), Knights of Columbus and Freemasons at Kiosko Kagawasan, Divisoria, this city. Ecumenical prayers were offered by Ustadz Aliasa Alinog (Islam), Rev. Rivardo Yañez, Jr. (United Church of Christ in the Philippines) and Roman Catho...
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04Jan2013PASAY CITY, January 4 (PIA) – In commemoration of the 116th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippine Embassy in Oslo, Norway has turned over copies of the famous works of the country's national hero. Philippine Ambassador to Norway Bayani S. Mercado presented the copies of the manuscripts of Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo to Mr. Runar Skrøvset, Librarian of the Multilingual Library and Ms. Maria Bagtas, Webmaster for the Development Unit. The books produced by ...
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04Jan2013QUEZON CITY, Jan. 4 (PIA) - The NationalCommission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is organizing national activities in celebration of National Arts Month (NAM) which will take place in February 2013. NCCA, the country’s prime agency for the arts and culture, has been spearheading the celebration since 1991, with the signing of Presidential Proclamation 683 declaring February as National Arts Month. The Philippine Arts Festival (PAF), a consolidation of different NAM activities, is mainly c...
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02Jan2013DAET, Camarines Norte, Jan. 2 (PIA) -- Daet takes pride being the site where the first Rizal monument was built that occupies a distinct place in the annals of nationalistic struggle not only in Camarines Norte, or in Bicol Region but even in the entire country. A forum on "Why the world’s first Rizal Monument was built in Daet?" was conducted here for the 116th anniversary celebration of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose P. Rizal and the 114th anniversary of the establishment of the first Rizal Monu...
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30Dec2012MANILA, Dec. 30 (PIA) -- President Benigno Aquino III today leads the nation in the commemoration of the 116th year of martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park, Manila. At 7 a.m., the President hoisted the Philippine flag to the top, then lowered it to the half-mast position. He also led the wreath–laying rites assisted by National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) chair, Dr. Maria Serena Diokno and Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, Knights of Rizal Supreme Commander Sir Reghis R...
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29Dec2012QUEZON CITY, Dec. 29 (PIA) -- President Benigno Aquino III will lead on Sunday, the 116th anniversary of the martyrdom of Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park in Manila, a news release from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) said. At 5 a.m., there will be a solemn re-enactment of the transfer of Rizal’s urn from San Fernando and Juan Luna streets in Binondo to Rizal Park 100 years ago. Knights of Rizal, the Grand Lodge of the Philippines, led by Grand Master Santiago Gabion...
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28Dec2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Dec. 28 (PIA) -- Center for Kapampangan Studies (CKS) of Holy Angel University will launch today late poet Delfin Turla Quiboloy’s book entitled “Iyas King Balas” (Gem on the sand) in his hometown in Lubao. “The book is a collection of poems made by Quiboloy during his lifetime” CKS Director Robby Tantingco said. “The launch, to be held at the Diosdado Macapagal Museum, shall feature music and poetry reading. Quiboloy’s son Dante will speak in beha...
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27Dec2012LAOAG CITY, Dec. 27 (PIA) -- The Tagalogs have their ‘puto bumbong’ during Christmas. The Ilocanos garnish the holiday table with their ‘tupig’ treat. For Ilocanos, Christmas is also about bringing out that traditional rice cake wrapped in burnt banana leaves – the ubiquitous tupig (native suman). While it has become an all-year round snack among Ilocanos, tupig never fails to bring out that Christmas spirit every time it becomes part of the Noche Buena menu in a typical Ilocos house...
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26Dec2012LAGAWE, Ifugao, Dec 26 (PIA)--The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is urging all local chief executives to observe the 116th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal on December 30. DILG Provincial Director Rosemarie Dumelod said they have disseminated a memorandum circular of DILG Secretary Mar Roxas enjoining local chief executives to conduct simple yet fitting commemorative activities in their respective localities in collaboration with non-government organizations...
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22Dec2012BAGUIO CITY, Dec. 22 (PIA) -- The City Government of Baguio will be holding the inaugural Baguio International Film Festival (BIFF) on December 26-29 at the FDCP-Cinematheque and Hill Station Restaurant in the century-old Casa Vallejo along Upper Session Road here. The BIFF, , in partnership with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), through its Sineng Pambansa Program, is an activity of the city government through its Tourism and Special Events Division which aims to promote ...
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18Dec2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Dec 18 (PIA6) -- The 68th anniversary of the Liberation of Capiz and Capiz Veterans Memorial Day (CVMD) 2012 will be highlighted with a medical mission on December 20. This will be for Capiceño World War II (WWII) veterans and their dependents Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP) – 6 deputy regional vice – president Hannibal Lipardo said the celebration will kick off with a wreath laying and volley of gunshots ceremonies at the veterans monument of the Provincia...
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17Dec2012SAN FERNANDO CITY, Pampanga, Dec 17 (PIA) -- Barangay Del Pilar ended Sta. Lucia’s winning streak on Saturday to reclaim the Giant Lantern Festival (GLF) crown. The village, which previously reigned from 1983 to 1991, took home a giant star-shaped trophy and P120,000 prize. Telebastagan placed second and got P60,000 while San Jose ended third and took home P40,000. Del Pilar lantern maker Rainier DeVeraTurda said, “We used 8,500 bulbs worth P300,000, which is lesser compared to our P500,0...
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17Dec2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Dec. 17 (PIA) -- Capampangan In Media Incorporated (CAMI) has launched a 75-page book about Kapampangan newsmen which the group asserts and proclaims Pampanga as a cradle of Philippine Journalism. CAMI Secretary-General Jose Cortez said “each page of the book is a veritable treasure trove of historic gems that were hidden but was fortunately found in their painstaking search for the roots of Kapampangan journalism.” “Dacal pung salamat quing biniye yung ...
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14Dec2012DAGUPAN CITY, Dec. 14 (PIA) -- The tourism office will conduct a study to identify the culture of every community in this city. “If there is one project that I wanted to do next year, it is the cultural mapping of every barangay in the city,” City Tourism Officer Mary Rose Teng Mejia said on Thursday. “I am a staunch believer in cultural mapping. If we know where we came from, we will also know where we can go,” she added. Stressing the importance of studying the flora and fauna, de...
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14Dec2012MANILA, Dec. 14 -- The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), in collaboration with Metrobank Foundation, recently launched DiplomART2: Cultural Diplomacy through Philippine Architecture and Allied Arts. DiplomART2 was formally launched with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to signify the opening of the exhibit “Salumpwit, Bangko, Silya, Atbp: Chairs in Filipino Life.” The ceremony was led by DFA Secretary Albert F. del Rosario and Metrobank Foundation President Aniceto Sobrepeña, and witnessed by...
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13Dec2012MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Dec. 13 (PIA) -- The local government unit here agreed to provide a decent space near the library of the city-owned Maasin City College (MCC) to house the personal belongings and other valuables left behind by war hero Col. Ruperto K. Kangleon. Kangleon’s surviving children, Sister Lourdes Kangleon, now in her eighties, coordinated with City Investment Officer Willy Justimbaste, after learning that the present Kangleon memorabilia room located at Saint Joseph Co...
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12Dec2012Central Luzon has been famous for a number of things -- from gastronomic delights to fashion, from arts to sports. Name it and Central Luzon is surely on the A-list. Every Christmas season, thousands of foreign and local tourists converge on the region to see and be amazed with the colorful displays of the Belenismo and Giant Lantern Festival in Tarlac and Pampanga, respectively. Nativity scene The art of making Belen has been a century-old tradition in several parts of the archipelago, and ...
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07Dec2012TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, Dec. 7 (PIA) -- The Cavite Provincial Library launched a new book entitled, “Chabacano for everyone and Learning a Chabacano: A Handbook” by Dr. Enrique Escalante" at the Session Hall of the Legislative Building here. Escalante said learning Chabacano “is a presentation of phonetic, vocabulary and grammatical structures found in the present-day Chabacano language of the City of Cavite.” The book will give the readers the basics of Chabacano language includi...
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07Dec2012Strong family ties, compassion for others, humility and resolute faith in God – all these are reflected in the making of a belen, which is a Christmas symbol. In the makeshift construction of the belen using abaca, anahaw, bamboo, talahib, rice stalks, twigs, rice hulls, sugarcane, palay, water bottles, shampoo sachets, soft drink cans and old tires, it is notable that these strong values are depicted out of the ingenuity of Filipinos. President Aquino himself observed during the recent awar...
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07Dec2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, Dec 7 (PIA) -- A story that begins and ends when the hands of the clock point to five in a dusky June afternoon bagged the Best Film prize of the 2nd CineKabalen Kapampangan Film Festival besting 16 other entries. The film “5:00 Ning Gatpanapnun” (5 p.m.) took home P30,000 cash prize and a Sinukwan trophy which is made from Pinatubo volcanic ash. The Petersen Vargas film was also named Best in Cinematography and Best in Production Design. Festival director Jason Pa...
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06Dec2012VIGAN CITY, Dec. 6 (PIA) -- A book on World War II victory at Bessang Pass in Cervantes, Ilocos Sur was launched at Fort Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City, Manila last Wednesday, according to Ilocos Sur’s Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO). “Wanting the Filipino youth to have a sense of national pride and imbibe love of country, PVAO has embarked on research and publication of this book with a title: Victory at Bessang Pass. The book was authored by Journalist Ben Cal,” PVAO O...
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04Dec2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Dec. 4 (PIA6) -- Three Panay Bukidnon traditions were the focus of a study in a 72-day School for Living Tradition (SLT) Phase I of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) which ended in a graduation ceremony last Nov. 17 at Barangay Jaena Norte in Jamindan town. Panay Bukidnon is a group of Indigenous Peoples that boasts of a rich tradition and cultures. The revived traditions are the Binanog/Agong Dance which is a dance of courtship that resembles the mov...
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04Dec2012ZAMBOANGA CITY, Dec. 4 (PIA) -- Hundreds of city government employees crowded the streets as they participated in the lantern parade held last night as opening salvo to the city’s annual Christmas festivity dubbed as “Pascua na Zamboanga” (Christmas in Zamboanga). “The Pascua na Zamboanga is one of the most celebrated festivals and celebrations in the city that makes the celebration of the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ even more meaningful,” Sheila Covarrubias, City Information Offic...
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04Dec2012PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan, Dec. 4 (PIA) -- The marker at the Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR) was unveiled at the actual site today, affirming it officially as Ramsar Convention's “Wetland of International Importance”. PPUR was cited for the importance of its bio-diverse ecosystem and the conservation efforts for its sustainable development, with the unveiling of the marker at the actual site. The unveiling rites were led by Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DEN...
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03Dec2012TABACO CITY, Dec. 2 (PIA/LGU Tabaco City) -- Twenty–six (26) official candidates of Miss Earth 2012 expressed fascination over the first hand experience in riding the "padyak" or tricycle as part of the visit in historical landmarks and key tourists’ destinations in this city last month. The candidates rode the said eco-friendly vehicle as they toured Saint Baptist Church, a national historical treasure bestowed by the National Historical Institute and the National Commission for Culture ...
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02Dec2012CAMILING, Tarlac, Dec 2 (PIA) -- President Benigno Aquino III on Saturday lauded the organizers of the Belenismo for being able to bring out the ingenuity and spirit of bayanihan of Tarlaqueños. In his speech during the sixth Grand Awards Night at the Tarlac College of Agriculture in Camiling town, Aquino said, “Sa nakalipas na ilang taon nang pagdaraos ng patimpalak na ito, naging maugong ang husay ng mga kalahok. Hinangaan ito hindi lamang sa Pilipinas kundi pati na rin sa ibang bansa. Kin...
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01Dec2012MANILA, Dec 1 (PIA) -- The holiday shopping rush is in the air, but Manila’s favorite shopping hub took time off to honor the Supremo. Located in Tondo, Manila, the birth place of Gat Andres Bonifacio, the Tutuban Center management honored and hosted several events in commemorating the 149th birth anniversary of the Supremo Friday, November 30. The simple celebration started with a flag-raising ceremony led by Manila Councilor Lou Veloso, National Historical Commission Chief Architect Wilk...
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28Nov2012By Gideon Gapayao ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal, November 28 (PIA)— Cardona, Rizal is set to celebrate its Kaluskos Festival this December. The municipality holds the Kaluskos Festival annually in order to preserve the tradition of creating artistically crafted bamboo arches made from bamboo wood which are abundant in the town. The name of the festival involves stems from the ‘kuskos’ sound made by a bolo on bamboo. During the festival, locals showcase and display the arches as a symbol of the c...
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28Nov2012MALOLOS CITY, Bulacan, November 28 (PIA) -- A book that centers on the longest mountain range in the Philippines and its indigenous people, the Dumagats, will be launched on December 3 at the Bulacan State University (BulSu). Entitled Mahabe Pagotan: Kasaysayan, Kalinangan at Lipunan ng mga Dumagat sa Bahaging Bulacan ng Sierra Madre”, the 16-year in the making work was penned by Blessed Sacrament Missionaries of the Poor Inc. missionary and Sagip Sierra Madre Environmental Society President ...
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27Nov2012DAVAO CITY, Nov 27 (PIA) -- Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and Ludivico Badoy, chair of the National Historical Commission unveiled formally today the marker declaring the city hall of Davao as historical site. The simple rite in front of the city hall building was witnessed by department heads of the city government, local legislators, regional directors of line-government-agencies and members of the diplomatic corps. The local government building was built as a municipal hall by the American gov...
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26Nov2012QUEZON CITY, Nov. 26 (PIA) - The National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ (NCCA) Dayaw, the biggest celebration of indigenous culture in the country, will be held on November 27 to 29 in Malolos, Bulacan. About 400 participants from different indigenous communities around the Philippines are expected to join in the said celebration. Dayaw is a project of the NCCA’s Subcommission on Cultural Communities and Traditional Arts (SCCTA). The celebration has the theme “Katutubong Pamumuh...
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22Nov2012DAVAO CITY Nov. 22 (PIA) --Leading players of the local and international film industry have converged in Davao City for the International Film Expo (IFX) which will run from November 23 to 24 at the brand new SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang Premiere. The IFX is spearheaded by the Film Development Council of the Philippines in partnership with the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Inc (DCCCII). The Expo will feature exhibitors particularly film equipment suppliers, production ...
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22Nov2012Christmas spirit is up in the air and part of the Filipino culture is the hanging of lanterns to signify that Christmas is fast approaching along with the cold breeze. The Kapatagan town of Lanao del Norte province will celebrate Christmas this time with something unique – an activity dubbed "PASKOhan sa Kapatagan 2012." It will showcase different lantern designs made from indigenous materials in each of the 33 barangays. This explains why celebrating Christmas in this town need not be exp...
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22Nov2012The first Basco ecclesiastical museum is seen to be the first functional museum in the province. It is located at the ground floor of the convent, a part of the parish pastoral hall and lectors lounge that are under renovation. The museum is the 31st project and apostolic work of Rev. Fr. Ronaldo B. Manabat parish priest of Basco since May 2011. Fr. Zenki, as Manabat is popularly called, emphasized that the museum he initiated is meant to keep and preserve the native Ivatan Catholic antique...
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22Nov2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Nov. 22 (PIA6) –- The celebration of this year's Sinada sa Halaran (SSH) festival on Dec. 6 to 8 here is packaged by organizers for Roxas City and Capiz to be known as home to Mary Immaculate Concepcion. “We want to show that we are a place of Mama Mary,” said Roxas City Metropolitan Cathedral representative Reverend Dedert Duarte during a recent press conference for the upcoming celebration, adding that other places became popular because of their Patron Saint. The...
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21Nov2012This third-class municipality, locally known as the Balikbayan town of the Philippines, has more to offer than its crownless bell tower and rustic surrounds. A cursory trip to the town (it was second after Makati City for having the most number of overseas Filipino workers in the 1970s according to town records), would show dozens of medium to large concrete houses, a testament of Bacarra as home of most “Hawaiia-nos” (Ilocanos living in Hawaii and other parts of the United States). Near ...
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21Nov2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, Nov 21 (PIA) -- A book that provides eyewitness accounts of Kapampangans during the aftermath of the 1991 Pinatubo eruption bagged the top prize in the Science category of the 31st National Book Awards. Entitled "Pinatubo: The Volcano in Our Backyard," the book was penned by Holy Angel University-Center for Kapampangan Studies director Robby Tantingco and was published in time for the 20th anniversary of the eruption last year. “I wrote it after realizing that most ...
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20Nov2012VIGAN CITY, Nov 20 (PIA) -- Local officials and residents of Ilocos Sur celebrated last Friday the 122nd birth anniversary of former president Elpidio Quirino by remembering his heroism. A short program was held at the provincial capitol where the former president’s grandchildren Cory Quirino and Eddie Quirino and Senior Provincial Board Member Christian Purisima led the provincial officials, employees, students and residents in a floral offering ceremony at the foot of the former president...
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19Nov2012LEGAZPI CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA/PGA) -- "100 Kislap" by Bikolano writer Abdon M. Balde Jr. was awarded the 2011 National Book Award for Best Book of Fiction by the National Book Development Board and the Manila Critics Circle during its 31st National Book Awards ceremonies held November 17 at the Old Senate Session Hall of the National Museum of the Philippines, City of Manila. Balde hails from Busac, Oas, Albay. He is Albay’s Poet Laureate and provincial government consultant for Cultural Affai...
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19Nov2012BORONGAN CITY, EASTERN SAMAR, November 17 (PIA) – The Boronganons honoured on November 14 another hero during the Filipino-American war, in simple rites held near the famous Hamorawon Spring, this city. Captain Andres Lobrio, who was represented by his heirs was given recognition for his gallantry in what was known as “Labanan sa Borongan”. Lobrio led the guerrillas who were armed with the lowly bolos in that daring July 10, 1901 attack in Borongan against the Americans. A Histori...
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17Nov2012LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, Nov. 17 (PIA) -- A dog fun show, horse show and indigenous meat preparation and cooking are but some of the unique activities residents and tourists are set to witness in the Adivay Festival in celebration of the 112th founding anniversary of the province this month. These events are spearheaded by the Provincial Veterinary Office. On November 17 at the Benguet Sports Center, dogs take the center stage as they perform tricks and antics, ramp for the best fashion show, po...
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16Nov2012In what has become a tradition of sustaining tourists’ interest in Ilocos Norte, the provincial government is rolling out yet another festival. Vaunted to be the festival of festivals, the “Tan-ok ni Ilocano,” (the greatness or pride of Ilocanos) will be staged at the President Ferdinand Marcos Stadium on Saturday, November 17 to accommodate droves of participants and spectators. The festival brings together the best of Ilocano dances that will mirror the province’s culture, history, r...
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16Nov2012CITY OF BALANGA, Bataan, Nov 16 (PIA) – Inspired by calls of the people for historical innovation, the city government of Balanga will launch a 192-page encyclopedia contains never-before-seen details about the Bataan capital. The Balanga Encyclopedia consists of information on the city’s prominent people, places and events thoroughly researched and verified by the City of Balanga Historical Committee (CBHC). Mayor Jose Enrique Garcia III said the book may be released this year, the earlie...
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16Nov2012BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, Nov 16 (PIA) -- A bronze bust was unveiled here to honor Don Eugenio S. Daza, the hero behind the famous Balangiga Massacre, on his 142nd birthday. Members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) rendered a 21-gun salute after a wreath was laid at his monument. Daza was a school teacher who finished his Education degree with honors at the Ateneo School. Roy Daza, one of his heirs said his great grandfather was offered by Ateneo with a teaching job, but he opt...
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15Nov2012TABUK CITY, Kalinga, Nov 15 (PIA) –- The provincial government of Kalinga will be initializing the establishment of a mini-tourism museum at the provincial capitol with the procurement of traditional functional artworks of the people. Provincial Tourism Officer (PTO) Lorraine Ngao-i said in an interview that the acquisition of the display items would be funded from the P43,000 collection from the Unang Takbo Para sa Turismo conducted during the Tourism Month celebration last September. F...
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15Nov2012MANILA, Nov. 15 -- Ushering in a new wave of cultural awareness of things Philippine, Bayanihan, the National Dance Company of the Philippines, once again proved itself as a wellspring of national pride through “A Celebration of Dance with the Bayanihan” at the Cardinal Carter Theatre in Toronto on November 7. Calling the Bayanihan the country’s ambassadors of culture and dance, Philippine Consul General to Toronto Junever Mahilum-West likened the promotion of Philippine culture to a vir...
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15Nov2012TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Nov. 15 (PIA) -- Eastern Visayas is known for its being rich in cultural heritage, hence, its protection and conservation is being pushed in order to strengthen the tourism industry in the region. During the recently held executive committee meeting of the Regional Development Council at the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) regional office at Palo, Leyte, the support of the national agencies and local government units (LGU) were enjoined in the implementa...
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14Nov2012CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 14 -- Residents of Cagayan will have a rare treat when several choral groups will render a gamut of songs for free. The Philippine Choral Directors Association with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and Xavier University will be presenting a series of free concerts titled “A Choral Celebration: Northern Mindanao Heralds World Choral Day” on Nov 16-18. Choral groups of various schools and organizations in Northern Mindanao will be rendering performa...
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14Nov2012MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Nov. 14 (PIA) -- The entire Muslim community is set to celebrate Amon Jadid or Islamic New Year tomorrow, November 15. The National Commission in Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) said the date corresponds to the first day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar or Hijrah marking the migration Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in Saudi Arabia. In line with this, the NCMF announced that November 15, 2012 is declared as legal Muslim holiday to commemorate...
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13Nov2012He was poring over his move. Down a game in this eight-game match, the 19-year-old Rodolfo Tan Cardoso was again on the verge on losing but still struggling to keep his chances alive. His opponent, four years his junior and who was already crafting some of the best chess games in history, was on his way to delivering another routing. By the 31st move, the younger man’s position was already winning, but on the very next turn he made a blunder, allowing the older International Master (IM) to rev...
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13Nov2012GOVERNMENT CENTER, Palo, Leyte, Nov 13 (PIA) -- The Regional Development Council of Eastern Visayas enjoins national agencies and local governments to support the implementation of the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009. RDC Vice-Chair and NEDA 8 Director Bonifacio Uy said that this contained in a resolution passed by the Council in its latest meeting in October, 2012. Uy said that the concerned government agencies and local governments play a crucial role in the successful implementation ...
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13Nov2012While the recent All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day observance provides an opportunity for the living to be with their loved ones at least once a year, several indigenous people (IP) in the province of Nueva Vizcaya live with the dead in their homes or yard. One will be surprised to know that while Bagabag town has the highest number of public cemeteries at six located in barangays Pogonsino, Villa Coloma, Sta. Lucia, San Pedro, Murong and Villaros, in upland towns predominantly inhabited ...
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13Nov2012Sporting events have become a way of life for Filipinos. A simple barangay fiesta would not be complete without a barangay basketball game. A provincial and national celebration would always include sports as a must event during the entire duration. Private companies and offices would set aside a day or even an entire week for sports bonding of their employees. And schools? One could not imagine inter-school basketball matches could be less explosive. Universities and colleges really spend ...
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10Nov2012MAKATI, Nov 9, (PIA) -- The 2012 Metro Manila Film Festival has five (5) official entries in its New Wave Section for full feature independent films. This was announced today by Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Francis Tolentino in the MMDA website. Tolentino who is also the concurrent chairman of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Executive Committee named the 5 entries: Armando Lao's "Ad Ignorantiam," Ronaldo Bertubin's "Gayak," Will Fredo's "In Nomine Matris," Michael A...
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09Nov2012BALIWAG, Bulacan, Nov 9 (PIA) -- These days when posting status on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram has become rather common, who among the Bulakenyo youth can do better than that and follow the strides of Francisco Balagtas, Francisco Santiago and the National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario? In a rare opportunity to hone the budding talents of the youth, Almario himself, together with renowned writers, will train students and teachers from the province at the Sining ng Tugma at Sukat (S...
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08Nov2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, Nov 8 (PIA) -- The local government of Angeles has partnered with University of Santo Tomas (UST) in publishing a book series that contains the history, culture and traditions of its 33 barangays. City Tourism Office Chief Christine Nunag said “the three-volume book series was a result of a four-month cultural mapping of UST’s Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment (CCPET), our office and around 55 public school teachers and senior citizens.” ...
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07Nov2012PAOAY, Ilocos Norte, Nov. 6 (PIA) -- Residents here have been marking two kinds of feast for the dead: one for their dead relatives at daytime, the other for the town’s collective dead after dark. Residents normally visit their dead in cemeteries at daytime and leave the tombstones when night falls because public cemetery grounds are poorly lit. Only those with privately lit burial grounds stay longer to spend more time with their departed and for a few bottles of beer with friends. But the...
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07Nov2012ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal, Nov 7 (PIA) -- Angono, Rizal recently celebrated the centennial birth of two of its National Artists - Carlos “Botong” Francisco and Professor Lucio San Pedro last November 4 through a flower offering and multi-sectoral program at the St. Clement Catholic Cemetery. A parade of Angono's famed “higantes” followed the morning ceremony towards Brgy. Poblacion Itaas where a street mural gallery featuring Francisco’s works was unveiled. Several art exhibits and events...
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06Nov2012DAGUPAN CITY, Nov 6 (PIA) -- In the recent celebration of All Saint’s Day, a city cemetery gained public curiosity because of the creatures buried there. Instead of dead people, the 1,300-square meter cemetery serves as a sanctuary for at least 20 dead marine mammals. The Fish Cemetery is located inside the compound of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in barangay Bonuan Binloc. Dr. Westly Rosario, Center chief of the National Integrated Fisheries and Development Center (NIFT...
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06Nov2012GENERAL TRIAS, Cavite, Nov 6 (PIA) -- Residents of this municipality joined the festivities for their annual fiesta in honor of the patron saint, Saint Francis of Assisi with the theme “Indak ni San Francisco sa Taon ng Ginintuang Hubilehiyo, Larawan ng Bayang Binubuklod ng Pangarap na Inaabot (Dance of Saint Francis in the year of the Golden Jubilee, A Picture of a Town United by a Common Dream).” The celebration demonstrates the rich culture and history of this premier municipality and s...
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03Nov2012MANILA, Nov. 3 (PIA) -- The Government Service Insurance Wing is now open at the National Museum through a memorandum of agreement signed by the pension fund and the National Museum last February. Under the agreement, the GSIS will transfer the management of its art collection to the National Museum ”to preserve, maintain, secure and promote the collection...” It will also “extend appropriate privileges and benefits to GSIS members on the use of its facilities enjoyed by other sponsors, ...
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01Nov2012VIGAN CITY, Nov. 1 (PIA) -- This city is set to receive its first international award as the World’s Best Practice on Heritage Conservation Management on November 8, 2012 in Kyoto, Japan. during the culmination of the 40th anniversary of the World Heritage Convention, a top official here said. Mayor Eva Marie S. Medina said the international award was conferred by the Culture Sector under the World Heritage Centre of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESC...
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24Oct2012GENERAL TRIAS, Cavite, Oct 24 (PIA) -- Local leaders including nongovernment organizations celebrated the 144th birth anniversary of General Mariano Closas Trias. General Trias was the first vice president of the Republic of the Philippines during the revolutionary government established at the Tejeros Convention. Meanwhile, this first class municipality was formerly known as San Francisco de Malabon was renamed to General Trias in 1923 by virtue of Legislative Act No. 2889. In a ceremony he...
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24Oct2012VIGAN CITY, Oct 24 (PIA) -- Twenty World War II veterans will be recognized today during the year-end activities of the country’s commemoration of the 70th year of veterans’ valor at the AFP Theatre, Camp Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City. In a phone interview, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) Public Affairs Officer Jet S. Fajardo–Rivera said on Tuesday that the recognition ceremony is one of the three highlights for the culmination of the 70th year of veterans’ valor (1942–...
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23Oct2012MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, Oct 23 (PIA) -- The entire Muslim community is set to celebrate Eidul Adha on Friday, October 26. Eidul Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It is one of the two greatest Islamic festivals. The other is Eidul Fitr which marks the end of Ramadhan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. During the Eidul Adha celebration, Muslims will gather at their local mosques to l...
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23Oct2012MANILA, Oct. 23 (PIA) -- Four marching band entries from the municipality of Naval province of Biliran took home the bacon in this year’s Banda Rayhak competition held at RTR Plaza, Tacloban City, on October 20, 2012 on the occasion of the 68th Leyte Gulf Landings Anniversary. The competition was divided into junior and senior categories where seven elementary schools and nine secondary schools from the entire Eastern Visayas region vied in the competition. In the junior category were Nava...
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23Oct2012SAN ISIDRO, Isabela, Oct 23 (PIA) – After the canonization of blessed Pedro Calungsod last Sunday, a newly constructed Catholic church at Barangay Cebu, San Isidro has been named after the saint by the Diocese of Ilagan. Parishioners attended the mass celebrated last Sunday in the first Catholic church named after the recently canonized Filipino saint. Cecilia Viray, a local Catholic devotee, said she is glad that the church in her town was named after the second Filipino saint, and is pr...
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22Oct2012ZAMBOANGA CITY, Oct. 22 (PIA) – The National Museum-Zamboanga City Office officially opened the month-long Literary and Visual Arts and Crafts Exhibit featuring the works of young artists in the city last Thursday, October 18 in partnership with the Department of Tourism 9 and Zamboanga City High School-Main (ZCHS). National Museum-Zamboanga City Officer-in-Charge Eufemia Catolin said the exhibit is in line with the Museums and Galleries Month and Zamboanga Hermosa Festival. “We opened the...
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22Oct2012DAVAO CITY, Oct. 22 (PIA)-The city government will participate in the beef sharing tradition which is in line with the Feast of Sacrifice or Eidul Adha of the Islamic faith, according to Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio. She told reporters that the beef-sharing will be in partnership with the Integrated Center for Alternative Developments (ICAD) Foundation which allotted funds for 50 cows to be slaughtered and distributed on participating barangays during the occasion. Duterte-Carpio said the city...
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20Oct2012TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan, Oct 20 (PIA) -- A local secondary school in the province has started to mount stage productions in the Ibanag language adapted from English short stories by Filipino writers, as part of the government’s Mother-Tongue Base basic education program. Eloisa Mabborang, English teacher of the Linao National High School, said she has been inspired by earlier works done by noted Filipino stage actor and director Rolando Tinio. “Chances are, we will produce similar plays e...
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20Oct2012PALO, Leyte, Oct 20 (PIA) -- A World War II (WWII) veteran has recounted his experience of the Leyte Gulf Landings. “Kon manunumdoman ta ha paypay hit history, hadton October 20, nakanhi hi MacArthur han 1944 pero antes makanhi, paglakat niya ha Corregidor hadton Marso 11, 1942 nagsaad hiya kan Gen. George Moore, ‘I Shall Return,’ (If we would remember in the pages of history, on October 20, MacArthur arrived here in 1944 but before he came, when he left to Corregidor on March 11, 1942 he...
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20Oct2012PALO, Leyte, Oct 20 (PIA) -- The people of Eastern Visayas commemorates the 68th anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Landing through a commemorative program today, October 20, centered on the theme “Leyte Gulf Landings: A Celebration of Victory.” The Filipino World War II veterans, with their sons and daughters, foreign dignitaries, guests and visitors were welcomed by the provincial and municipal officials of Leyte led by Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho L. Petilla. Former Senator Ramon B. Magsays...
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20Oct2012PALO, Leyte, October 20 (PIA) -- With the MacArthur Landing Memorial Shrine in Red Beach, Palo, Leyte as the backdrop thousands of people will gather today to commemorate the 68th Anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Landing. Among those expected to attend are World War II veterans and their relatives, foreign dignitaries from the nation members of the Allied Forces, national government officials, provincial government officials, students, and representatives of all sectors of the community. Leyte Go...
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19Oct2012Every October 19, the coastal town of Dulag in Leyte province becomes the center of activities for the anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Landings. The Dulag Commemorative celebration, which is sponsored by the municipal government of Dulag, Leyte and the provincial government of Leyte, is always held at Hill 120 or “Catmon Hill” at Brgy. San Rafael. This was the exact site where the American flag was first raised in the Philippines during the liberation. Hill 12, fronting the main highway of...
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19Oct2012MANILA, Oct 19 (PIA) - - The 2012 Asiaticafilmmediale: Focus on Philippine Cinema was successfully held from October 5 to 13 at the La Pelanda Testaccio in Rome. The annual Asian Independent Film Festival officially opened on October 5 with screening of short film Waiting by Richard Legaspi and full-length film Oros by Paul Sta. Ana. Philippine Ambassador to Italy Virgilio A. Reyes Jr. remarked at the inauguration ceremony,”Despite the global economic slowdown and painful budgetary cuts in...
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19Oct2012TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Oct 19 (PIA) -- The local government of Palo will submit a work program for the rehabilitation of the MacArthur Landing Memorial Park as required by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone (Tieza) said a top official of the Department of Tourism in Eastern Visayas. At the Harampang Ha PIA press forum last Tuesday, Karina Rosa Tiopes, DOT regional director said that the Tieza budget for the undertaking of P1.5 million will be used in the putting up of rest areas, l...
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19Oct2012OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Oct. 19 (PIA) –- The "Inug-og" Festival Street Dancing and Ritual Competition, a tribute to the Subanen tribe was held on October 12. The Misamis Occidental Science and Technology High School (MOSTHS) emerged as champion in this year’s festival competition which is one of the prelude activities to the City Fiesta in honor of its patron, Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, on October 16. The festival is a tribute to the Subanen tribe who inhabit along the...
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18Oct2012TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Oct 18 (PIA) -- The annual commemoration of the Leyte Gulf Landings starts with the first landing in Tolosa, Leyte, dubbed as Signal Day at Tolosa on October 18. This year's Signal Day commemoration started with a Walk for Peace at 6 a.m., from the town proper of Tolosa to the Scout Abello Market site in Barangay Telegrafo, Mayor Erwin Ocaña said. A mass, a commemorative program, and a wreath-laying rites followed with the top provincial officials of Leyte and the mun...
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17Oct2012MANILA, Oct 17 (PIA) -- Members of indigenous communities in different parts of the country will once again unite to unveil their exceptional skills and rich heritage as the Hibla Pavilion of Textiles and Weaves of the Philippines opens today at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay. The event, which hopes to bring indigenous communities closer to the global arena through their weaving traditions, is part of the Manila FAME Design and Lifestyle Event 2012. “This is the product of our support f...
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16Oct2012TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan, Oct 16 (PIA) -- The Department of Education - City Division has launched programs and projects to jumpstart the revival of an endemic culture here seen by cultural experts as threatened. Division Superintendent Gilbert Tong said the revival of the Ibanag culture is part of the Mother-Tongue Based (MTB) program of the government which seeks to preserve indigenous cultures, including its languages, for generations to come. Ibanag is one of the MTB languages now taught i...
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15Oct2012SORSOGON CITY, Oct 15 (PIA) -- Kasanggayahan Festival 2012 opened at the Capitol Park on Monday to celebrate the 118th Foundation Anniversary of the province of Sorsogon. Most Reverend Arturo M. Bastes said mass and in his homily, the bishop emphasized on the meaning of Kasanggayahan which he said should not solely relate to material prosperity. “Kasanggayahan is not merely progress in material sense,” he said in his sermon, “but, progress in love for God and the neighbor, in the purit...
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13Oct2012VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur, October 13 (PIA) -- Vigan has been conferred the UNESCO World Heritage Best Practice and Conservation Management award, beating 28 entries from 23 countries in the world. "We were lucky to be chosen for this so huge an award. When the UN asked for the requirements, and told us that it is nominating Vigan for this award, we did not announce this nomination," City Mayor Eva Marie S Medina said yesterday. "Vigan is such a small city compared to large world heritage cities a...
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13Oct2012GLAN, Sarangani, Oct 13 (PIA) — The mayor here on Monday paid tribute to the town’s founding fathers whose sacrifices, he said, tell the saga of how this town came almost a century ago. “Ninety eight years ago today, our founding fathers from the Visayas braved the seas and a future fraught with peril and uncertainty to establish the first settlement in this part of the Archipelago,” said Mayor Victor James Yap, Sr at the 98th Foundation Anniversary celebration held at Atty. Enrique ...
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13Oct2012LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, October 13 (PIA) – Pangasinan’s best culture and arts will again take center stage as the province conducts the 2nd “Balitok a Tawir” (golden heritage), an inter-municipality/city performing arts competition. Ma. Luisa Elduayan, tourism operations division chief, said that the contest is a post activity for the Tourism Month celebration which aims to recapture, rediscover, promote and preserve the authentic culture and arts of Pangasinan. Elduayan added that pe...
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12Oct2012SORSOGON CITY, Oct. 12 (PIA) -- He used to organize the annual Sorsogon Heritage Lecture Series for more than a decade; this year, he was honored and his works were highlighted in an afternoon of exposition of his meaningful and relevant contributions to enrich Sorsogon’s colorful culture and history. Sorsogon Arts Council (SAC) once again conducted the annual Sorsogon Heritage Lecture Series in celebration of the Kasanggayahan Festival 2012 as a fitting honor to the man who started it all. ...
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12Oct2012CALANASAN, Apayao, Oct. 12 (PIA) - - The local government unit (LGU) here has institutionalized the "lapat" system to protect and conserve its forests, and rationalize the exploitation of their natural resources. Mayor Elias Bulut Sr. said the LGU in 2007 formally institutionalized the practice through Sangguniang Bayan Ordinance No. 06-2007, “An Ordinance Institutionalizing Lapat,” an Isnag indigenous tradition declaring a particular land or a kaingin field (pagoomanan), portion of a fores...
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12Oct2012GLAN, Sarangani, Oct. 12 (PIA) -- Glan’s Lubi-lubi festival keeps the Filipino culture alive, says Vice President Jejomar Binay in a message delivered by his daughter Nancy Binay during the foundation day program on Monday, October 8. The Vice President also recognized Lubi-lubi Festival as “patunay sa inyong pagtulong sa layunin ng ating pamahalaan na mapangalagaan ang kulturang Pilipino at mapanatiling buhay ang ibang makukulay at mayayamang tradisyon natin. (This festival affirms that yo...
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12Oct2012SAN FERNANDO CITY, Pampanga, Oct 12 (PIA) -- 2012 Cinemalaya-winning Kapampangan film “Manenaya” (waiting) is set to compete at the 19th Filipino-American Cine Festival in San Francisco, California this month. “Manenaya, my seventh movie, competed first in Jogja Netpac Asian Film Festival in Indonesia then exhibited in Cinemanila International Film Festival before it competed in Gawad Cultural Center and Cinemalaya. Just recently it was part of the 18th International Short Film Festival i...
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12Oct2012VIGAN CITY, Oct 12 (PIA) -- An expert in the conservation of cultural property and environment has urged architects and engineers in Ilocos to help preserve and promote historical landmarks for future generation by specializing in heritage conservation and restoration. Eric Zerrudo, director of the Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics of the University of Sto. Tomas (UST), said this during a 30-day Certified Heritage Conservation Specialist Course at Vigan...
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11Oct2012KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Oct. 11 (PIA) -- The country brand “Dreamweave” for the traditional cloth T’nalak will be launched today as one of the highlight of the 2012 Mindanao S&T Cluster in General Santos City. Launching of the brand “Dreamweave” will be held during the Science and Culture Fashion Show, at 6 p.m. at the KCC Mall Convention Center. Dr. Zenaida Laidan, regional director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) 12 said, be...
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11Oct2012SAN FERNANDO CITY, Pampanga, Oct 11 (PIA) -- The provincial government of Pampanga continues to accept nominations for the 2012 Most Outstanding Kapampangan Awards (MOKA). MOKA aims to recognize individuals who have excelled in their respective endeavors or professions and have brought pride to the Kapampangan race, the Arts, Culture and Tourism Office of Pampanga (Actop) said. Nominees must be a Kapampangan either by blood which means at least one of the parents is Kapampangan or must be born...
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10Oct2012GUAGUA, Pampanga, Oct 10 (PIA) -- Nine Kapampangan sculptors, spearheaded by Presidential Merit Awardee for Ecclesiastical Art Willy Layug, were recently commissioned to create Vigan City’s centerpiece mural in time for its hosting Unesco’s Icomos (International Council on Monuments and Sites) Conference on Cultural Tourism next month. Layug said, “Our wooden mural, which is 3.8 meters high and 6.8 meters wide, capsulizes Vigan’s rich culture and history. It will be displayed at the lo...
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09Oct2012BASCO, Batanes, Oct 9 (PIA) – More participation in the Marian month celebration this year is expected, with twenty-three offices in Basco included in observing the annual rosary pilgrimage this month of October, the Marian month. This is the sixth year of the Marian month observance. Previously, only six barangays were in the itinerary where the image of the Blessed Mother is brought so that devotees would have to go to those barangays. This time, the Basco parish included the different sch...
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08Oct2012TABUK CITY, Kalinga, Oct 8 (PIA) -- Varied and highly valued indigenous heirloom beads known as "bongor" of the Kalinga people would be put on display come October 27 at the provincial capitol gym in an event dubbed “Kalinga Bongor ‘Heirloom Beads’ Congress." The activity intends to gather Kalinga heirloom beads owners, collectors, sellers, and enthusiasts to exhibit their beads for photo documentation for research materials and public information. National Commission on Indigenous P...
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07Oct2012QUEZON CITY, Oct7 (PIA) -- The Santo Domingo Church in Quezon City (QC) and its liturgical objects were officially declared by the National Museum as National Cultural Treasures during the opening of the annual celebration of La Naval de Manila held October 4. The public declaration also coincided with the traditional enthronement ceremonies of the canonical image of Our Lady of the Rosary (or the Nuestra Señora del Santisimo Rosario), La Naval de Manila at her shrine also at the Sto. Domingo...
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04Oct2012VILLAVERDE, Nueva Vizcaya, Oct 4 (PIA) -- Members of the Ayangan tribe in Barangay Cabuluan here recently formed their organization as a prelude on efforts to lay claim on their ancestral lands through the issuance of Certificate of Ancestral Domain Titles (CADTs). Organized as Ayangan CADT Holders Development Association (ACHDA), the association will work for the legitimate documentation of ownership on the 6,431 hectares of land, said Greg Singgangan, provincial director of the National Comm...
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04Oct2012Come, take a look, and even savor Pampanga’s top-rated food in the Pamangan Fiestang Kapampangan (Feast of Kapampangan food) this Sunday, October 7. Angeles City government said the feast, which will be served in a luncheon buffet at the Museo ning Angeles (Museum of Angeles), is open to all foodies and fans of Kapampangan cuisine. “We are offering a variety of delicacies, dishes from the top Kapampangan restaurants, caterers, culinary schools and home cooks, so it is no wonder that you...
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03Oct2012DAVAO CITY, Oct 3 (PIA) -- The Davao Cinematheque will feature a selection of films from the European Cinema during the Cine Europa 15 Film Festival starting October 4. The festival which runs until October 21 is the fourth staging of the annual program of selected European films in Davao City; however, this will be the first time it would be held at the Cinematheque which is run by the Film Development Council of the Philippines. European Union Ambassador Guy Ledoux together with Ambassador...
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03Oct2012LEGAZPI CITY, Oct. 3 (PIA) -- After more than a decade when it was first crafted and staged in the early 1990s, the theater play, “Gayon (Beauty)” will once again reveal the same environmental issues that it confronted in a one-night only show in celebration of the Kasanggayahan Festival of Sorsogon Province. “Originally titled as Reyna Gayon (Queen of Beauty), the theater play is a re-staging of the play produced in the early 1990s which is a commentary on the environmental issues of tha...
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01Oct2012MANILA, Oct. 1 -- “Busong,” a critically-acclaimed Filipino independent film on the vanishing Palawan tribe in the Philippines, won the grand prize in the National Geographic Society’s All Roads Film Festival in Washington, D.C. In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs said “Busong” (“Palawan Fate”) according to the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., directed by Aureus Solito, bested 25 other indigenous film entries from all over the world to win the Merata Mita Awa...
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01Oct2012MANILA, Oct. 1 -- The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) through its Intertextual Division celebrates the 25th anniversary of its literary journal by launching Ani 37, the Cleansing and Renewal issue, on November 29, 2012 at the CCP Promenade at 5 p.m. Ani 37 contains 122 works of prose and poetry submitted by 66 authors written in English, Filipino and different Philippine languages, representing Aklanon, Bikol, Chabacano, Ilokano, Iluko, Kankanaey, and Pangasinan, a statement from CCP ...
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29Sep2012TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental, Sept. 29 (PIA) -- "Dalit” Festival, along with a street parade and Search for a Festival Queen, provide the highlights of a month-long City Fiesta celebration, here, in honor of its patron, St. Michael the Archangel, on Sept. 29. A cultural street presentation, the festival derived its name from a Visayan word “Dalit” meaning “to offer” and depicts the various activities of the people of Tangub in offering a thanksgiving of sort to the Almighty for ble...
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28Sep2012CALANASAN, Apayao, Sept. 28 (PIA) - - The local government of Calanasan institutionalized its Local Peace and Arbitration (LOPA) system, an Isnag indigenous practice of reconciling disputes. This milestone in local peacekeeping effort was presented by Mayor Elias Bulut Sr. to the Cordillera Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) during the third quarter meeting held September 27 at Mawanan Resort, Sta. Filomena, this municipality. Bulut said this was also adopted under Municipal Ordinance No....
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27Sep2012MANILA, Sept 27 (PIA) -- On October 4, the National Museum will officially declare the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City, as well as the liturgical objects inside the church, as National Cultural Treasures. In a release, Fr. Clarence Victor Marquez, OP, director of the Institute of Preaching, said the occasion will coincide with the traditional enthronement ceremonies of the canonical image of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, La Naval de Manila. According to the Catholic Bishops Conference of th...
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26Sep2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Sept 26 (PIA) -- More than 80 photographs depicting Capiz tourism potentials and cultural events are now on exhibit at the atrium of the Provincial Capitol in Roxas City. The “Pasiplat” (Hiligaynon term for glimpse) exhibit is staged by the Capiz Provincial Press Bureau (CPPB) in view of the 2012 Provincial Tourism Week (PTW) celebration. “This exhibit is a glimpse of the past tourism and cultural activities captured through the lens of the CPPB,” said Provincial To...
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26Sep2012BAGUIO CITY, Sept. 26 (PIA) - - The city government of Baguio celebrated its international sisterhood ties with foreign communities in the city in a day of fun and entertainment at the SM City Baguio, Sunday. The event also showcased sister- city exhibit and free Chinese, Japanese and Korean tea-sampling as well as of other delicacies from Baguio’s foreign communities. Philippine International Sisterhood and Twinning Association (PHISTA) co-chair, Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda, in ...
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25Sep2012LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, Sept 25 (PIA) -- The province of Pangasinan celebrates Tourism Month this September with emphasis on its rich cultural heritage and heightening youth’s awareness on social values of tourism. Ma. Luisa Elduayan, provincial tourism officer, said activities were set to orient the youth and the general public on tourism’s role to the environment and the society. She said that as early as September 3, different schools and municipalities have started their initial activi...
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22Sep2012MALOLOS CITY, Bulacan, Sept 22 (PIA) -- National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in partnership with Kapisanan ng mga Bahay-saliksikan sa Bansa, Inc. (Kabansa) and Center for Bulacan Studies of Bulacan State University, will hold the Central Luzon Visual Arts Convention (CeLVACon) from October 3-4 at SM City Baliwag. NCCA Committee on Visual Arts Central Luzon representative Andrew de Guzman said, "The event, dubbed as Unang Daloy, connotes a symbolic unity and direction by which t...
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21Sep2012FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija, Sept 21 (PIA) -- President Benigno S. Aquino III led today the observance of the 40th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law with the opening of the newly refurbished Aquino-Diokno Memorial and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Center for Human Rights Dialogue inside Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija. In his speech, Aquino recalled the agony faced by his father Ninoy and fellow senator and party mate Jose Diokno in their detention facility in Fort Magsaysay d...
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20Sep2012PAOAY, Ilocos Norte, Sept 20 (PIA) –- One of Ilocos Norte’s tourism centerpieces, the Malacañang ti Amianan (Malacañang of the North), has been given a facelift, bringing back the grandeur that the former vacation house radiated during the Marcos administration. The Philippine Tourism Authority had control and administration of the Malacañang structure until the Aquino administration turned over its supervision to the Ilocos Norte provincial government in December 2010. Governor Imee Ma...
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20Sep2012DUMAGUETE CITY, Sept. 18 (PIA) --This year’s Negros Oriental Buglasan Festival of Festivals will have three venues for the 87 events calendared on a two-week celebration in October. Negros Oriental Tourism Council (NOTC) Chair Nick Elman said the main events will be spread out at Freedom Park, Sidlakang Negros Village and Rizal Boulevard to decongest the huge crowd. For now, organizers are busy preparing for the biggest event, the Buglasan Festival, one of the Philippines most colorful festi...
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19Sep2012ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte, Sept 19 (PIA) -- Once again Iliganons will celebrate the city fiesta on September 29, the feast of "Señor San Miguel," the armor-clad patron saint of Iligan, revered as its defender and protector against all threats. Thus, his feast is a grand celebration in Iligan. In fact, it has been transformed into a month-long festival -- the “Diyandi Festival sa Iligan.” Agnes Clerigo-Maingat, city tourism officer of Iligan, said the city is also celebrating Septembe...
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18Sep2012DAGUPAN CITY, Sept 18 (PIA) -- A book commemorating the 25th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986 was launched at the Lyceum-Northwestern University here Friday. The book, entitled Silver Lining, chronicles the years before the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos until the presidency of Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo but the bulk of it is concerned with the EDSA Revolution. Author Melandrew Velasco, a native of this city, said he started writing the book two years ago at the urging...
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18Sep2012BANAUE, Ifugao, Sept. 18 (PIA)-- The municipal government here stepped up its Tourism-Environmental Education Program (TEEP) which is observed to be steadily gaining success in its implementation with the recent declaration by the United Nation’s Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) that the two famous rice terraces here are already out of the list of endangered Living Cultural Landscape. The TEEP is a strategic, systematic and information-education activities in the ...
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18Sep2012TACLOBAN CITY Leyte, Sept 17 (PIA) –- A staff of the Philippine Information Office – Eastern Visayas won the top prize in the Pasidungog Eduardo Makabenta Sr. Para Han Siday (Eduardo Makabenta Sr. Literary Award for Poetry). Leonilo Lopido, a Waray editor for the PIA, was announced winner by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in cooperation with the Leyte Normal University. Among his poems for the contest include Ha Langyaw (In foreign land), Paglanat (Pursue), Mga Pa...
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14Sep2012The people of Pampanga (or Kapampangans), with their rich history and culture, are known for grandiose art, mouth-watering cuisine, deep-seated Catholic faith and for producing statesmen that had contributed in the evolution of the Filipino nation including presidents, chief justices, cabinet secretaries and senators. Luckily, a university-based institution was established, dedicated to trace the roots and preserve the heritage of these people. Founded in 2002, Center for Kapampangan Studies (...
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13Sep2012LAOAG CITY, Sept 13 (PIA) -- Students and teachers in Laoag City will look at history through stone structures as these take center-stage in this year’s observance of History Week. This will be under the program of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts in coordination with the Department of Education - Laoag City Division. Teachers and students will learn about the cultural, historical and social significance of the stone landmarks during activities from September 15-22 said Dr....
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13Sep2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Sept 13 (PIA) -- An exhibit on the best practice of values, culture, customs and traditions dubbed “Pabalon” by the municipal government of Jamindan in Capiz kicked off on September 12 at the ground floor of the Provincial Capitol. “Pabalon is one of the best values that we, Jamindanganons, can be proud of because we never allow our guests to go home empty-handed as we make sure that they could take home something,” said Jamindan town Councilor Lemuel V. Vestidas in h...
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11Sep2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, Sept 11 (PIA) -- Center for Kapampangan Studies of Holy Angel University (CKS-HAU) will open on September 29 a museum dedicated to the father of Pampanga Sculpture and Woodcarving, Juan Flores. “The Flores collection is our second exhibit of a great Kapampangan artist after Vicente Manansala, which was opened to the public early this year. Flores is credited for making his village of Betis in Guagua town the furniture-making and wood carving capital of Luzon,” CKS Di...
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11Sep2012LAAK COMPOSTELA VALLEY, Sept. 11 -- The local government unit of Laak led by Mayor Reynaldo B. Navarro will once again celebrate its Kahimunan Festival simultaneous with Fruit Festival this September 21, 2012. Kahimunan is a Dibabawon term for unity amidst cultural diversity. As diverse and exotic as their culture are, the Dibabawons, Muslims, Mandaya and other minority groups in the Municipality even the Visayan flocked to the Municipal Hall Ground of Laak to showcase not only their cultural ...
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10Sep2012ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept 10 (PIA) -- Anchored on the theme “Fiesta Hermosa 2012... Mas Alegre na Zamboanga (It’s more fun in Zamboanga),” the city gears up for the feast day of Nuestra Señora de La Virgen del Pilar, the grandest event in Zamboanga this October. Mayor Celso Lobregat convened concerned parties to finalize the events for the celebration, which will commence on October 1 and culminate on October 12, the fiesta day. “The other day, Mayor presided over a coordinating conference...
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08Sep2012Lovers of Ilocano culture would probably like to catch on September 8, the Solidarity Day celebration of World Heritage Sites, which has a long-term goal of preserving the 630 heritage structures that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. City Mayor Eva Marie Medina has expanded the occasion into a week-long celebration that starts on the fourth of September. Ricardo L. Favis, consultant for Culture at the Unesco Principal Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific and former tourism opera...
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06Sep2012“I am not an intellectual. I do not paint from the mind. I am a peasant, I paint from the heart," said Vicente Manansala, great Filipino visual artist. Indeed, from “Madonna of the Slums” to “Pila Pila sa Bigas”, National Artist for Visual Arts Vicente Manansala gave us a glimpse as to how he looked at his subjects- a reflection on his personal sentiment towards the hardships of their lives. The sketches behind his famous works plus other memorabilia highlighting his stellar career s...
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06Sep2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga September 6 (PIA) -- Center for Kapampangan Studies of Holy Angel University, in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), is inviting filmmakers to join the 2nd CineKabalen Film Festival. "The competition is open to all who identify themselves as Kapampangans or of Kapampangan descent, living in the country or abroad, amateur or professional and for those who are based in Central Luzon, regardless if they are a native of Pampanga ...
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06Sep2012TUGUEGARAO CITY, Sept 6 (PIA) -- The officialdom of Solana town here are busy preparing for the launching of its 1st Abayaw Festival which will be staged on September 14-16. Municipal administrator Narciso Taquiqui said the festival will highlight the celebration on the bountiful produce of farmers in the town. He said Solana town, which is adjacent to this city, is considered as the rice bowl of the province. Many of its farmers are also on corn planting. “Abayaw is an Itawes word of ‘K...
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06Sep2012NAGA CITY, Sept. 6 (PIA) -- After almost four months of visiting various establishments in Metro Manila, the pilgrim image of Inang Penafrancia is finally back here in time for the Traslacion procession tomorrow. Together with members of the local media in Camarines Sur, Ina’s pilgrim image reached Naga around 2 a.m. from the Tutuban Chapel where her devotees gathered and prayed the novena. Ina’s journey started in 2010 upon initiation of Archbishop Leonardo Z. Legaspi, O.P. D.D. as a ...
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05Sep2012NAGA CITY, Sept 5 (PIA) –- The Naga City government has laid down plans and measures to ensure safety of devotees and visitors, expected to join the annual celebration of the feast of the Our Lady of Penafrancia. Mayor John Bongat has issued Executive Order 2012-012 or the Inter-Agency Task Group and the Unified Command Joint Operations Center to oversee significant tasks of giving out commands, control, coordination, collaboration and the management of an effective communication system that...
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05Sep2012TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, Sept. 5 (PIA) -- Amid the rising trend of “street-dancing festivals” , Trinidad comes out with the bold move for its "Karomata festival". Trinidad town under Mayor Roberto Cajes adopted the festival conceptualized in 2007 under then chief executive Judith Cajes. Festival coordinator Aniceto Petarco said the Karomata Festival was a highlight of the town’s 65th Foundation Days Anniversary celebrated every August 30-September 1. Street-dancers from five high school...
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05Sep2012TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, Sept 5 (PIA) -- Panglao town put up a P1.1 million starting fund to restore its heritage sites, among which is the restoration of the "old municipio" or municipal hall abandoned in the 1980s. The old municipio is set to be restored after the government listed the nearby Panglao old stone watchtower as an important historical treasure. The two important heritage sites attract attention, which is enough to get government funding to finally salvage a piece of history the...
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05Sep2012MANILA, Sept 5 (PIA) -- Bicolandia’s famed “Ina (Mother),” the Our Lady of Peñafrancia is set to return to its hometown, Naga City, today after four months of visiting parishes and offices in Manila and nearby provinces. In a statement by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), Ina will be brought back to Naga City via the Philippine National Railways (PNR) special pilgrim train, ahead of the week-long celebration of the Peñafrancia fiesta scheduled on the third ...
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05Sep2012NEW YORK, Sept. 5 -- Dalaga, the New York boutique known for eclectic and affordable styles, has been invited by the Philippine Consulate General to be featured in the “Best of the Philippines on Fifth Avenue” series for their engagement in the fashion community and for being excellent examples of Filipino-American entrepreneurs. A statement from the Department of Foreign Affairs said the Dalaga installation at the window was displayed at the Philippine Center New York, 556 Fifth Avenue, Ne...
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04Sep2012GOVERNOR GENEROSO, Davao Oriental, Sept. 04 (PIA) -- Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon is optimistic that the Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary will get recognized by UNESCO as among the world heritage sites. She told the media that a team from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is due to arrive in October this year to do a ground validation at Mt. Hamiguitan which has been declared by the national government as a protected area by ...
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04Sep2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Sept 4 (PIA) -- A photo exhibit entitled, “War of Our Fathers,” produced and conceptualized by the Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) is currently on display at the defunct historic San Fernando train station as a tribute to Filipino fighters during the Second World War. “The exhibit is a collection of more than 700 pictures gathered by our bank from historians, collectors and archives throughout the years,” PVB Corporate Communications and Marketing Services...
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04Sep2012LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, Sept 4 (PIA) -- The province of Benguet submitted project proposals on culture and traditions for funding under the National Commission of Culture and the Arts (NCCA) competitive grant program for 2013, intending to preserve culture and sustain its existence for the generations to come. Brian Camhit, member of the Committee of Northern Cultural Communities – NCCA Benguet, said eight proposals were submitted to NCCA for screening and approval of the NCCA Executive Commit...
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04Sep2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Sept 4 (PIA) -- Manila-raised Kapampangan independent filmmaker Richard Legaspi placed second in the Dulang Pampelikula category of the 62nd Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature for the screenplay “Primera Bella.” “Winning the Palanca is the dream of every Filipino creative writer. Since elementary, inaambisyon ko na manalo pero ang problem ay hindi naman ako laging sumasali. My first attempt to join the Palanca was in 2004 for my script Cyclone Lo...
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03Sep2012QUEZON CITY, Sept 3 -- Guests were awed and inspired by the life and work of Manuel Antonio Rodriguez Sr., father of Philippine contemporary printmaking, during the launch of his coffee table book celebrating his centennial year at the Philippine Center on August 23, the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco reported. Manuel Antonio Rodriguez, Sr. is one hundred years and eight months old. Mang Maning, as he is fondly called, is a pioneering artist who revived printmaking as a major ...
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31Aug2012NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Aug 31 (PIA) -- The month-long tourism celebration in Silay City will open on September 1 promoting the city as the seat of arts, culture and eco-tourism. Silay City Mayor Jose Montelibano said the activities lined up for the celebration are manifestations of the eagerness of the people of Silay in promoting tourism in the city. The 30-day celebration includes ecology tour, cultural heritage tour, school-to-school tourism campaign, outreach program, tourism quiz, tour guidin...
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31Aug2012CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Aug 31 (PIA) -- The Kagay-an Festival 2012 was the most successful and festive celebration Cagayan de Oro ever had, said the mayor here, expressing his gratitude to the chair of the fiesta committee, city councilors and all those who worked for it. Mayor Vicente Emano also recognized the efforts of city hall department heads, the Cagayan de Oro police office, the City Tourism Board, businessmen, religious sector, Muslim community and the public for their contribution in mak...
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31Aug2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Aug 31 (PIA) -- The city government of San Fernando held an exhibit featuring photos of Filipino fighters during World War II at a defunct historic train station that has been transformed into a tourist attraction. “This train station is not an ordinary station as our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, rode here as he went to towns in Pampanga to seek support for his La Liga Filipina. This witnessed the struggle of the Filipino and American soldiers during the war....
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31Aug2012MANILA, Aug 31 (PIA) -- The city of Manila paid tribute to national hero Marcelo H. del Pilar on his 162nd birth anniversary. Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim yesterday led the people of Manila in paying tribute to the hero in a wreath-laying ceremony and commemorative program at the Remedios Circle in Malate, Manila. Lim was joined by city officials, employees, students, Manila Historical Commission Vice Chair Gemma Cruz Araneta, and Corina Santos Ungson who is a descendant of Del Pilar. In a s...
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30Aug2012MANILA, Aug 30 (PIA) -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) hosted the launching of the catalogue for "Bayanihan: A Convergence of Angono’s Art Expressions,” a 14-day art exhibit held in three galleries in Angono, Rizal. For the first time, the 50 participating artists were presented as one group in honor of their hometown, which celebrated its 74th foundation day last August 19. Among those who participated in the exhibit were Nemiranda, the Blanco Family, Pepito Vill...
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30Aug2012KIANGAN, Ifugao, Aug. 30 (PIA -- In an effort to preserve the rich culture here, Barangay Ambabag will conduct its yearly “Bakle Ad Ambabag” (Rice cake festival) on August 31-September 1. Jason Bayawon, barangay head of Ambabag, said that the yearly activity which started three years ago, showcases cultural activities usually done after harvest season. “This is our way of thanking the Almighty for all the blessings bestowed upon the community,” Bayawon said adding that the main eve...
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29Aug2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga August 29 (PIA) -- Two book launches and a cultural show at Holy Angel University (HAU) on Friday shall highlight this year's Aldo ning Amanung Sisuan which celebrates the rich Kapampangan language. In a press statement, the Center for Kapampangan Studies (CKS) of HAU said "the book Kasapunggul Sampaga 3 is a collection of works made by Kapampangan poets both here and abroad which was published by Parnasong Kapampangan-an international organization of our laureates with...
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29Aug2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, August 29 (PIA) -- Pampangueno artists from this city showcased their works during the heritage week celebration of the City of San Fernando on August 24 to 26, 2012. Paintings and photographs by Gamat members were exhibited at the newly opened SM San Fernando situated in the heart of the city. The paintings and photos show heritage sites and Pampango traditions and culture. City Administrator Ferdinand Caylao said the celebration is a promotion of our heritage...
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29Aug2012SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna, Aug 29 (PIA) -- The vice mayor of this city has urged the Division of San Pablo to include the historical contribution of local personalities in the school curriculum. In her welcome address during the commemoration of this year’s National Heroes Day on Monday, Vice Mayor Angelita E. Yang made the suggestion so school children will be made aware of the heroism of native born residents who have contributed in the maintenance of peace in the community. It was held in fr...
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29Aug2012QUEZON CITY, Aug 29 (PIA) -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) has launched a tour itinerary- and poster-making contest in observance of National Heroes Day on August 27 and History Month in August. Dubbed Icons of Greatness, the competition seeks to honor the country’s heroes and commemorate the significant events in the history of the Filipino nation, a DOT statement said. Entries for both tour itinerary and poster must feature at least one of the icons of greatness defined as significant p...
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28Aug2012MANILA, Aug. 28 --The UP Singing Ambassadors (UPSA), in cooperation with several Filipino-Belgian Communities in Belgium, staged a series of concerts, goodwill performances and outreach programs in Belgium starting August 10 and which is set to end on September 05. The group’s European concert tour is also intended for their participation in the 60th Concorso Polifinico Competition Guido D’Arezzo in Italy from August 20 to 26. It was in 2001 that the group won this competition’s Grand Pr...
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27Aug2012QUEZON CITY, Aug 27 (PIA) –– President Benigno S. Aquino III called on Filipinos to become heroes as he led the nation in commemorating the National Heroes’ Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, Taguig City, Monday morning. Aquino said ordinary people are capable of becoming heroes without having to sacrifice their lives. This year's observance is anchored on the theme "Pilipinong Tapat, Magiting at Makabayan: Ikawang Bayani sa Tuwid na Daan." “Wake up the hero inside you and answer to...
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27Aug2012TAGUIG CITY, Aug. 27 (PIA)--President Benigno Aquino III led the nation in the commemoration of the National Heroes Day. Aquino arrived early at the Libingan ng Mga Bayani, Fort Bonifacion in Taguig City to lead the rites for National Heroes' Day . Upon arrival, the President was given the military arrival honors and was received by Secretary Votaire Gazmin of the Depatment of National Defense (DND), A Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Jessie Dellosa, Taguig City Mayor...
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26Aug2012MANILA, Aug. 26 -- The premiere design and lifestyle trade fair of the Philippines, “MANILA FAME”, is prominently advertised in a window display at the Philippine Center in New York. This year’s Manila FAME theme is “The Art of the Craftsman – The Soul of the Philippines” and aims to heighten the profile of the Philippines as an innovative design producer of unique, cutting-edge, and sustainable items for home, business, and lifestyle requirements, a statement from DFA said. ...
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25Aug2012PAMPANGA, Aug. 25 -- A coffeetable book featuring the abundant religious and cultural heritage of Betis, Guagua, Pampanga will be launched on 2 p.m. Monday, August 27, Betis Church. The book entitled “Suli: Legacies of Santiago Apostol Church of Betis' was written by Nina Tomen in partnership with the St. James the Apostle Heritage Foundation, Inc., the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) with technical assistance from Juan D. Nepomuceno Center for Kapampangan Studies of Ho...
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23Aug2012QUEZON CITY, Aug 23 (PIA) -- The Quezon City government commemorates August as the Month of Heroes, priming for four historic events this month that define not only the city but the country as well. The first of the events is the 68th Death Anniversary of the former President and first visionary of Quezon City Manuel Luis Quezon, which was held on August 1. A mass, floral offering and blessing of the President’s tomb at the Quezon Memorial Circle were set for the commemoration. The city also...
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23Aug2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, Aug 23 (PIA) -- This year’s Crissotan or the Kapampangan balagtasan which enjoins secondary students in Angeles City to participate in the debate in verse is slated tomorrow, August 24, at Museo ning Angeles (Angeles Museum). Angeles Tourism Office (ACTO) head Christine Nunag explained that this project "aims to support the sustained interest and appreciation of Kapampangan language." Crissotan consists of eight rounds, each round with two stanzas, each stanza compos...
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21Aug2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Aug 21 (PIA) -- Cinemalaya-winning Kapampangan film "Manenaya (waiting)" has been picked to compete at the 18th International Short Film Festival in Drama in Greece. In an interview, film director Richard Legaspi said “Manenaya my 7th film competed first in Jogja NETPAC Asian Film Festival in Indonesia then exhibited in Cinemanila IFF before it competed in Gawad Cultural Center and Cinemalaya.” When asked how it feels that his film is participating in...
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21Aug2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, August 21 (PIA) -- A book that provides eye witness accounts of Kapampangans during the aftermath of the 1991 Pinatubo eruption is now competing under the Science category of the prestigious 2012 National Book Awards. Entitled "Pinatubo: The Volcano in Our Backyard", the book was penned by Holy Angel University-Center for Kapampangan Studies director Robby Tantingco and was published in time for the 20th anniversary of the eruption last year. “I wrote it after realiz...
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21Aug2012OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Aug. 21 (PIA) -- At least 10 out of 25 or 40 percent of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCAA) Grants Programs implemented from July to August, this year, were done by the tribal groups in Mindanao. This was revealed by Felipe De Leon, Jr., Chairperson of NCCA, who said the date the event, the sponsoring groups and location of the events were as follows: July 20 - School of Living Traditions on Higa-onon Mat Weaving, Phase 1, Sayawan Women...
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16Aug2012DUMAGUETE CITY, Aug 16 (PIA) -- A faculty of Silliman University’s English and Literature Department bagged second prize in the English category of the 62nd Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature. Ian R. Casocot won the award for his story entitled “It Always Breaks My Heart A Little to See You Go,” a chronicle of a mother dealing with an autistic child. This is the fifth Palanca award earned by Casocot. He garnered first place in the same category in 2008. He also won the N...
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13Aug2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, August 13 (PIA) -- Angeles Tourism Office (ACTO)- in partnership with Center for Kapampangan Studies (CKS) of Holy Angel University, Parnasong Kapampangan and the Kuliat Foundation is enjoining secondary students in the city to participate in this year's Crissotan or the Kapampangan balagtasan slated on August 24. ACTO head Christine Nunag explained that this project "aims to support the sustained interest and appreciation of Kapampangan language." Crissotan consists ...
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13Aug2012OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, Aug 13 (PIA) -- The governor here has called on the residents of Misamis for their cooperation in the preservation and conservation of the Mt. Malindang range natural park’s (RNP) rich biological diversity. Governor Herminia M. Ramiro sounded the call following the launching of the Mt. Malindang RNP as an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Heritage Park (AHP), during the 2nd National AHP Conference held in the city, early this month. “Biolog...
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11Aug2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Aug 11 (PIA) -- A lecture on indigenous people’s (IP) culture and tradition was facilitated by the 301st Infantry Brigade, Wednesday, at Camp Carreon in Calinog, Iloilo. Dr. Alicia P. Magos, professor emeritus at the University of the Philippines – Visayas, gave the lecture to the platoon and squad leaders of the 61st Infantry Batallion’s “Bayanihan Teams." Bayanihan teams are 61IB's primary units tasked to look into the concerns of the IPs of Panay, particularly i...
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08Aug2012DAVAO CITY, Aug. 8 -- Ballet Philippines is all set to stage Encantada – a full length modern dance performance – in celebration of the 2012 Kadayawan Festival in Davao. Slated on August 9, 2012 at the RSM Events Center, Philippine Women’s College, this collaboration will feature the choreography of Agnes Locsin, the live music performance by Joey Ayala and the songs of Al Santos - Davao’s homegrown talents who are considered pillars in their respective artistic craft. “Bringing ...
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03Aug2012DUMAGUETE CITY, August 3 (PIA) -- Nine administrative staff of the Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) participated in a national seminar-workshop conducted by the National Archive of the Philippines (NAP). The NORSU staff joined about 1,000 archivists from government offices around the country for the three-day national workshop on Basic Records and Archives Management at Hotel Veniz in Baguio City from July 24 to 26. The activity provided participants with the knowledge and skills nec...
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03Aug2012“I was seven years old when I started weaving. My late aunt Putri Gunong Lidang taught me how to weave mats. I was so engrossed with weaving that as time went on, I was able to produce fine designs,” master teacher Laluwua Dacula narrated. Training the future generation about weaving is done so at young ages. A total of 30 children from Grade 4 to Grade 6 are being taught how to weave. They regularly attend school and come to weave after classes or during their free time. Dacula said kid...
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02Aug2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Aug 2 (PIA) -- The Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) has facilitated a round table discussion to jumpstart the establishment of an orthography of the Capiz language. KWF Commissioner Jose Laderas Santos led the discussion aimed at preserving and promoting the Capiznon dialect. “A local dialect is very important in the learning process especially among the pupils to easily understand the subject matter,” Santos noted. The orthography will be very useful for the schools n...
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02Aug2012TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan, Aug 2 (PIA) -- The Ibanag language will be retaught to pupils of Ibanag towns in this province and some parts of Isabela. Vice President Jejomar Binay, founding chairman of the Ibanag Heritage Foundation, Inc. (IHFI), said the Ibanag mother-tongue based-multi-lingual education (MTB-MLE) program is set to be implemented next month in 15 municipalities and two cities in Cagayan and Isabela. Binay said the program will be rolled out in San Pablo, Cabagan, Tumauini, Santo...
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02Aug2012PAOAY, Ilocos Norte, Aug 2 (PIA) -– In the fabric industry, Ilocos is all about Abel or the centuries-old hand woven cloth that can be found in every Ilocano household. From blankets to hand towels, the Ilocano woven cloth found its way to national consciousness through Ilocano designer Amor Albano. Albano used the Abel Iloco for his final designs in Project Runway Philippines, the local franchise of an American designers’ competition program. He admitted though that it was a challenge ...
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01Aug2012LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, August 1 (PIA) -- Professional writers in this province urged blooming literary writers in a workshop Saturday to use the local language as their medium. Poet Santiago Villafania said the Pangasinan language lacks a large body of literature compared to other local languages. Critics in writers’ workshop in Manila and the Cordilleras are always asking why there are very few pieces of literature written in the language, he added. Author and lawyer Ferdinand Quinto noted ...
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31Jul2012DAVAO CITY, July 31 (PIA) -- The Philippine Eagle Foundation, a private non-stock, non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and preservation of the endangered Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyis) is seeking for more donors. According to Rolando Pinsoy, media officer of PEF, the foundation needs at least P20 million to sustain its operations. He said that for this year about P10-million has been raised by the foundation mostly from grants and donations. About 70% of the don...
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31Jul2012It is said that a picture paints a thousand words. This has driven two Kapampangan photographers to mount a photo exhibit, dubbed “Pampanga: Tastes, Tints and Textures.” The exhibit aimed to promote the rich heritage of Pampanga by showing the beauty of the province's 19 municipalities and three cities. The exhibit was shown recently at SM City Pampanga in the capital City of San Fernando. “It was a project advocacy. You can see collage form showcasing the different assets of a speci...
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30Jul2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, July 30 (PIA) -- A short Kapampangan film entitled “Manenaya” won the Grand Jury Prize during the eighth Cinemalaya Film Festival 2012. Ruston Banal, one of the two producers of the film, said it was the first time that he and his group joined Cinemalaya and it was “luck” that they won in the said category. Banal is also the film's cinematographer. As a reward, the “Manenaya” team received a trophy from the award-giving body. Banal said the film was...
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30Jul2012MAKATI CITY, July 30 (PIA) -- The local government, through its Museum and Cultural Affairs Office (MCAO) in partnership with the Iloilo Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has opened on July 27 the 34th Likhang Kamay Arts and Crafts Exhibit dubbed "Legacy 2012" today, at the Atrium of Glorietta 5. The exhibit, with the theme “Filipino Kaleidoscope in Hablon,” features for the first time handmade products made from the famous hablon fabric produced in the Visayas, with Iloilo City taking cent...
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27Jul2012MAKATI CITY, July 27, (PIA) -- The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) yesterday officially launched the first-ever Cine-Phone Film Festival at the De La Salle College of St. Benilde's FDA Cinema in Manila. The Cine-Phone Film Festival will serve as a prelude to the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) in December. The competition seeks to widen the scope of the annual MMFF by attracting independent and young filmmakers, whose winning entries will be awarded during the MMFF. “...
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27Jul2012MATI CITY, Davao Oriental, July 27 (PIA) -- Local residents and visitors, flocked to the 128-year-old San Salvador del Mundo Church in the municipality of Caraga, Davao Oriental as it became one of the national historic sites in the country, July 16. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), the Diocese of Mati, and the local government unit of Caraga unveiled the national historic marker in the oldest church in the region, which coincided with the parochial feast day of the...
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27Jul2012DAVAO CITY, July 27 -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is making available a P95 million fund for various arts and culture projects that will be rolled out under the NCCA Grants Program. It is calling on cultural and arts groups, academic institutions, local government units, government agencies, local arts organizations, non-government organizations and private Individuals involved in arts and culture to submit their project proposals until August 30, 2012. Renee Tal...
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27Jul2012TAGUIG CITY, July 27 (PIA) -- Taguig City held a 10-day, July 17 - 26, festival known as the “Sta. Anang Banak Festival,” a city-wide celebration considered as the city’s most important historic and cultural event. A press statement from the Taguig City government said the feast is done to honor the town’s patron Saint Anne, who according to legend, gathered the citizens of “taga-giik” (origin of Taguig) along the riverbank. In 1587, legend says farmers lost all their harvests and...
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26Jul2012LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, July 26 (PIA) -- The Calasiao Children’s Chorus will compete in the 1st Xinghai Prize International Choir Championships in Guangzhou, China on November 8 to 14. Gilbert Allan Dispo, choir director and conductor, said the group, originally called St. Peter and Paul Choir after Calasiao town’s Catholic church, has gone a long way since it started in 2005 with barely 16 members. Dispo said based on rankings of around 1,000 choirs all over the world, the Calasiao Childre...
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26Jul2012TAGUIG CITY, July 26 (PIA) -- Preserving centuries-old tradition, Taguig City is showcasing anew this year its colorful traditional celebration of the Feast of St. Anne. In a release, this year’s celebration highlights the famous fluvial parade or the “Taguig River Festival” in honor of the patroness. “We are again showcasing our rich history and tradition that our forefathers started several centuries ago,” said Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano. Cayetano will lead the grand fluvia...
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25Jul2012CITY OF BALANGA, Bataan, July 25 (PIA) -- About 400 ambassadors and tourism directors from the US and Canada were amazed at the sight of a Spanish-theme beach resort in Bataan. Bataan Second District Representative Albert Garcia said it is a, “must-see destination” for foreign tourists. The Seventh Ambassador Consuls General and Tourism Directors’ Tour to the Philippines included a visit recently to the Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac town which features houses of stones or “bah...
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22Jul2012PAMPANGA, July 22 (PIA) -- An exhibit showcasing the beauty of the 19 municipalities and three cities of Pampanga is currently open to the public since July 20 until the end of the month in SM City Pampanga. The exhibit features Pampanga in all walks of life. Photos exhibited are composed of portraits, food, festivals, heritage sites and even religion. “The tastes, tints and textures” is a collaborative effort of two professional photographers who are both from Pampanga, Bruno Tiotuico an...
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20Jul2012DAVAO CITY, July 20 (PIA) -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has called on cultural and art groups in Mindanao to submit project proposals due on August 30 this year, to avail of NCCA’s Grants Program for 2013. NCCA’s Grants Program is provided under the National Endowment Fund for Culture and the Arts (NEFCA) to support individuals and organizations in the fields aligned with the Philippine culture and arts. Renee Talavera, head of NCCA Subcommission on Cultural C...
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19Jul2012BATAC CITY, July 19 (PIA) -- A multimillion cultural cluster, a first in Northern Luzon, will soon rise in Ilocos Norte. To be built at a cost of P55 million, the 55,000 sq m cultural center will be located in Batac City, where great talents for arts and cultural performances are found. To be named after the former first lady and now Ilocos Norte 2nd District Rep. Imelda R. Marcos, the cultural center would be an upgraded version of the existing one beside the Batac City Hall. City Mayor J...
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19Jul2012SAN JOSE,Antique, July 19 (PIA) -- The Antique Provincial Historical and Cultural Council (APHCC) presented a 'Musical Tertulia' at the Bishop's House recently featuring New York-based concert pianist Hector Martinez,Jr. After a long period of time, Antiqueños were treated to an afternoon of fine piano music played by Martinez who is presently in the country for a two-week vacation.It is his first time to step on Panay soil and he chose to mix vacation and work to let people hear and see his...
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19Jul2012LAOAG CITY, July 18 (PIA) -- The choral group Samiweng Singers of the Ilocos Norte National High School bagged a gold medal and two silver medals in the 7th World Choir Games in Cincinnati, United States held July 4 to 14. The choir received Gold IV in Folklore (open category), Silver X in the Youth of Equal Voices (open category) and a silver medal in the Musica Sacra (championship category) at the international competitions. Another Philippine delegate, Mirriam College High School Glee Club...
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17Jul2012LAOAG CITY, July 17 (PIA) -- Ilocos Norte has finally established a one-stop lifestyle and shopping center at the heart of the province, serving a daily taste of magnificent Ilocano history and culture. Located beside the Ilocos Norte Museum, the La Tabacalera is a haven, enticing more tourists to visit the province by offering an unforgettable Ilocano experience with scenery and architecture incomparable to some international destinations. La Tabacalera, which means ‘the tobacco,’ is an ...
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17Jul2012More than just to entertain, the Subayen Keg Subanon Festival in Ozamiz pays homage to the Subanen tribe, or the people who live along the river. It showcases the lifestyle of the Subanens (read as Suban-ons), who derive their name from the Visayan word “suba” meaning river, and Subayen (also read as Subayon), another Visayan word “subay,” meaning looking through. The Subanen tribe, who established their abode along the river banks, has been considered the first caretakers of the en...
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13Jul2012TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, July 13 (PIA) -- A Filipino-American reporter with Leyte roots is vying for a media award in New York. Filipino-American reporter Ryan Songalia, 25, is vying for the prestigious The Outstanding Filipino-American Award in New York (TOFA-NY), media and publishing category. His father Jaime is from Tanauan, Leyte. Filipinos all over the world can help him win the coveted award by clicking on his picture and ticking the Like button at the link which follows: http://www.facebo...
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13Jul2012KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, July 13 (PIA) -- The province's 13th T'nalak Festival opens today with Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr. inviting everyone to experience South Cotabato’s utmost bounty, attractive destinations and peace as the province also celebrates its 46th foundation anniversary. At 9:00 this morning Pingoy led government officials and employees, partner institutions and sponsors, and residents in opening of festival-long activities including Baha...
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12Jul2012VIGAN CITY, July 12 (PIA) -- A local official has proposed the construction of a museum at the site of the “Battle of Bessang Pass” in Barangay Malaya, Cervantes, Ilocos Sur to serve as repository of all World War II (WWII) artifacts recovered from the place for conservation. Ilocos Sur’s Vice Gov. Deogracias Victor B. Savellano aired his proposal noting the absence of a building to store recovered relics or antique WWII equipment and war materials from the historical site. Currently, ...
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12Jul2012The 29th Lami-Lamihan Festival in Lamitan City, Basilan showcased once more the uniqueness and vibrancy of the rich culture of its people. Anchored on the theme “Getting Better through the Preservation of Culture despite Obstacles,” this year’s festival celebrates the achievements of Lamiteños through the years. Lamitan finally became a city on June 18, 2011 after a long legal battle that reached the Supreme Court. The upgrade from a municipality to a city gave Lamitan the opportunity...
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10Jul2012LAOAG CITY, July 10 (PIA) -- It is not your regular bookstore. Samtoy Books, located at the artsy La Tabacalera in Laoag City, is where book lovers and artists meet. Jane Gaspar, general manager, said the bookshop is a haven for artists. On its walls are film posters, photographs of the Ilocano people and landscape, and on table tops are the region's arts and crafts. As a sanctuary for artists, Samtoy Books had mounted three exhibits since its establishment in December 2011. “We have ha...
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07Jul2012TUBOD, LANAO DEL NORTE, July 7 (PIA)-- More than 5,000 tourists, local and foreign alike, witnessed the Sagayan Festival, an event that highlighted the 53rd Founding Anniversary of Lanao del Norte. Visitors from neighboring provinces and cities came over to see the most-awaited performances of the participating contingents in this equally known provincial cultural dance of Lanao del Norte. Sagayan depicts a war dance among the Maranaos, performed during the Araw ng Lanao del Norte Celebration...
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07Jul2012VIGAN CITY, July 7 (PIA) -- The city government of Vigan conducted the 2nd Certified Heritage Building Conservation Specialist Course (CHBCSC) at Vigan City in preparation for the establishment of the Vigan Conservation Complex. This is in cooperation with the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Center for Continuing Professional Education and Development (CCPED) and Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics (CCCPET) and the United Architects of the Philippines, I...
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06Jul2012MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, July 6 (PIA) -- A colorful cultural street dance competition highlighted the finale of the week-long celebration of the 53rd founding anniversary of the province dubbed as “Karimbaran sa Ranao 2012” on Wednesday, July 4. The competition was participated in by students from the various schools in the province clustered into five schools division, namely Lanao del Sur IA, IB, IIA, IIB, and Marawi City. The Lanao del Sur IIB contingent was awarded champion winning...
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06Jul2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, July 6 (PIA) -- Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan lauded yesterday the renaming of the newly refurbished Hall of Justice in honor of the great Kapampangan Chief Justice Jose Abad Santos. In a speech, Pamintuan disclosed that “the new justice hall of Angeles is in due recognition of Abad Santos who stood and died for our country.” “This hall will certainly add history and prestige to the Angeles City Hall grounds, which we are slowly developing into a one-stop...
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06Jul2012KIANGAN, Ifugao, July 6 (PIA) -- After more than three weeks of excavation, the Ifugao Archaelogical Project (IAP) disclosed its findings on the “Old Kiyyangan Village” here considered one of the earliest settlement in the province as mentioned in the “Tuwali-Ifugao” origin mythology where Ifugao ancestors “Bugan and Wigan” lived. Historically, Old Kiyyangan is referred to by scholars as the precursor of what is now known as the town of Kiangan. The excavation site, the Kiyyangan ...
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05Jul2012MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur, July 5 (PIA) -- A week-long festivity and merry-making marked “Karimbaran sa Ranao 2012," the 53rd founding anniversary celebration of Lanao del Sur with the theme “Lanao del Sur: My Home, Your Home.” The celebration kicked-off June 26 with a series of shows featuring the rich Maranao culture such as “kakolintang” (playing the kolintang), “kasipa sa manggis” (a game of skills with the aim of dropping a suspended colorfully decorated cube by kicking a...
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02Jul2012DAVAO CITY July 2 (PIA) ---Film enthusiasts and cineastes can now watch rare cinematic masterpieces as the Davao City cinematheque was formally opened to the public. The 120- seat cinematheque is envisioned as an accessible, affordable if not free venue for the public to watch classic and contemporary Filipino films and also masterpieces from world cinema, movies which are not commercially shown on regular movie theaters. “The opening of this new cinematheque will augur well for the emergin...
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02Jul2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, July 2 (PIA) -- A book on Kapampangan script or “Kulitan” has recently been launched in Angeles City Pampanga. The book, entitled, “An Introduction to Kulitan: The Indigenous Kapampangan Script,” was written by a Kapampangan scholar Michael Raymon Pangilinan. “Kulitan is a reminder that Kapampangan was, is, and will always be, our mother tongue (in Pampanga),” said Center for Kapampangan Studies (CKS) of Holy Angel University (HAU) director Robby Tantingco d...
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02Jul2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, July 2 (PIA) -- The Center for Kapampangan Studies (CKS) of Holy Angel University (HAU) will launch this Friday another book that will promote the Kapampangan dialect and help those who are interested to learn Kapampangan poetry as well. The book, entitled “Diwang Kayanakan: Kawatasan Kapampangan, Sunis 1,” was written by three young Kapampangan poets – Roilingel Calilung, Adrian Lee Magcalas, and Ernie Sabandal. “Diwang Kayanakan will promote Kapampangan langu...
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29Jun2012LAGAWE, Ifugao June 29 (PIA) -- An official here said that the delisting of the Ifugao Rice Terraces by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) from the List of World Heritage Sites in Danger remains a challenge. Renato Patacsil, head of the Ifugao Cultural Heritage Office (ICHO) said that this is good news since after a decade, the famous tourist attraction is now delisted from the said list of endangered sites. “We are happy and it is a great honor ...
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29Jun2012BASCO, Batanes, June 29 (PIA) -- Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Armin Luistro said his trip to Basco, Mahatao, Ivana and Uyugan taught him things in life that he wouldn't have learned in parts of the country. In Batanes, Luistro said, he witnessed politicians and government officials walking around with no bodyguard, a scene unique to this parts. Luistro was guest during the Batanes Day celebrations on June 26. Likewise, Luistro said it is only in this island province where he sa...
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28Jun2012TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 28 (PIA) -- The Lingganay Festival of Alangalang, Leyte retained its Pintados-Kasadyaan crown in a spectacular festival presentation held at the jam-packed Leyte Sports Complex on June 27. Pasaka Festival of Tanauan, Leyte emerged as second place, while Karatong Festival of Dulag, Leyte placed third. The grand champion received P500,000 cash prize, a trophy and the chance to represent the province of Leyte in the next Aliwan Fiesta in Manila. The Lingganay Festival ...
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27Jun2012TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, June 27 (PIA) -- Set to be staged at 1:30 p.m. of June 27 at the Leyte Sports Complex is the staging of the Pintados-Kasadyaan twin festivals, an event residents and tourists always look forward to in the province of Leyte. As early as Sunday, contingents from the various municipalities of Leyte started to arrive in the City in preparation for the grand event, Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla, the chairperson of the Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival, said. This year, there are 11 c...
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27Jun2012VALENZUELA CITY, June 27 (PIA)-- The Museo Valenzuela and Ortigas Foundation invite the public to visit the, “Hidden Treasures: An Exhibit of Spanish-era Churches in the Philippines,” at the Museo Valenzuela Main Gallery, Fatima Avenue, Marulas, Valenzuela City. In a release, the exhibit is in line with the celebration of the Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day on Saturday, June 30. The Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day Bill was established on July 22, 2002. Republic Act No. 9187 or an act ...
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27Jun2012MARIA, Siquijor, June 26 (PIA) -- The town fiesta of Maria in Siquijor province was highlighted with a “Lubi (coconut) Festival" which Maria town mayor Rebecca Padayhag said is a joyful expression of thanksgiving in honor of the patron saint, Our Lady of Divine Providence for a bountiful harvest and blessings received from the tree of life locally known as “Lubi” (coconut). In its last month’s celebration, a total of 154 participants in the Festival dance showdown from the seven cluste...
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27Jun2012BALER, Aurora, June 27 (PIA) -- The 10th year observance of the Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day will be led by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and the National Commission on Culture and the Arts and Philippine Embassy in Spain. “The Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day is a national holiday that commemorates and preserves centuries-old friendship and strong historical and cultural links between our countries,” said senator Edgardo J. Angara, chairman of the Philippines-...
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26Jun2012TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan, June 26 (PIA) -- A solon assured support to the writers of Ibanag culture after a former broadcast journalist launched what is probably the first book of its kind, titled "The Transformation of Tuguegarao City." “I am most happy that the book showed how the city has transformed,” Congressman Randolf Ting said during the book launch of Claire Imogen Mapagu-Callangan. The congressman said he was impressed with the book as it covers the growth of the so-called city ...
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25Jun2012TUGUEGARAO CITY, June 25 (PIA) -- Cagayano artists have showcased their talents in artworks in the 4th Annual Indigenous Peoples Visual Art Exhibition at the St. Peter Cathedral Patio, spearheaded by the Provincial Government of Cagayan, through the Provincial Museum Office in partnership with the Kalinawa Art Foundation. Nelson Orpilla, exhibit curator, said the artworks depict the Cagayano culture and tradition as well as life’s challenges, realities, and transformations. The visual art ex...
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24Jun2012TUGUEGARAO CITY, June 24 (PIA) -- The week long celebration of the ‘429th Aggao Nac Cagayan’ has formally opened Saturday highlighted by an agri-trade fair which showcases local products of each of the 28 municipalities and one city in the province. Each of the the booths were designed and dressed in accordance with the municipalities' festivals, tourism potentials, culture and traditions. Native delicacies, processed local foods, agricultural products, fishes, plants and others captured ...
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23Jun2012CEBU CITY, June 23 (PIA) -- Spanish-era churches in a traveling exhibit titled “Hidden Treasures: An Exhibit of Spanish-era Philippine Churches” opened last June 10 and ended June 17 at the Parochial Center of the Saint Michael Archangel Parish in Samboan, Cebu. The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), through its Culture & Heritage and the Ortigas Foundation, initiated the traveling exhibit in the parishes of Cebu and Bohol in partnership with the Archdiocese of Cebu. "The 'Hidden Treas...
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23Jun2012TACLOBAN CITY Leyte, June 23 (PIA) -- For the third consecutive year in Tacloban City, an exhibit of various Santo Niño images was organized by the Leyte Pintados Foundation to highlight the monthlong celebration of the feast of the patron of Leyte. The Sto. Niño exhibit was officially opened last June 21 at the activity area of the Robinsons Place Tacloban Extension. Before the opening of the exhibit, all the images of Sto. Niño were met at the entrance of the Robinsons Place by a Pintado...
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21Jun2012DUMAGUETE CITY, June 21 -- The activities for this year's Buglasan Festival of Festivals will be staged at the Capitol grounds in October, five years after the festival was moved to Sidlakang Negros Village (SNV). Capitol Information Officer Adrian Sedillo said the festival activities will return to the Capitol grounds this year following discussions between the provincial government and the local government units (LGUs) here. The Negros Oriental Tourism Council earlier proposed to transfer ...
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20Jun2012Filipinos have a lot to celebrate these days due to a slew of homegrown Filipino talents having put the Philippines on the map in the world of dance, innovation, and even political issues in America. Early this month of June, two principal dancers from Ballet Philippines bagged major awards during the 7th Helsinki International Ballet Competition in Helsinki, Finland wherein nearly 100 dancers from 29 countries participated in three intense rounds of dance competitions. In November last year, ...
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19Jun2012DAVAO CITY June 19 (PIA)-- About 18 full-length films and documentaries made by filmmakers across the Philippine archipelago will be featured in the Sineng Pambansa or the National Film Festival to be held in Davao City on June 29- July 1. The event is initiated by the Film Development Council of the Philippines and partnered by the City Government of Davao and the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The Sineng Pambansa is part of the FDCP’s program in bringing Filipino films to di...
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18Jun2012TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, June 18 (PIA) -- Fighting for freedom from poverty is the new struggle that Filipinos nowadays are waging. This is what Tagum City Councilor Mylene Baura said in her keynote address during Tagum City’s 114th Independence Day celebration. The chair of Tagum City Council Committee on Women, Children and Family Welfare, Baura pictured the differing faces of freedom during the foreign colonization time and the post-liberation era of the Philippine history. While ear...
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17Jun2012KIANGAN, Ifugao, June 17 (PIA) --The Ifugao Archaeological Project was recently launched here with a native priest (mumbaki) performing a ritual calling on the unseen spirits not to inflict harm to a group of about 20 students from the different universities abroad and in the country to conduct the 2012 Ifugao Archaeological Field School. Adorned in his native attire, mumbaki Rodolfo Dulnuan, prayed to the gods and the spirits at the venue of the said project which is considered as the O...
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17Jun2012SAN JOSE,Antique, June 17 (PIA) -- The Diocese of Antique will celebrate its 50th Anniversary with a series of activities that will end on June 18, 2012 with a Grand Jubilee Day. Archbishops, Bishops and guests from all over the country are coming over to Antique to be one in this great celebration of the creation of the prelature way back in March 24,1962 and functioned as a Diocese under the Most Rev. Cornelio De Wit, MHM,DD as its first Bishop-Prelate. In its early years, the local Church w...
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15Jun2012BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, June 15 (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) here, through Forester Federico Briton is appealing to barangay folks to report to them any sighting of the prized Philippine Eagle. Briton said this recently as the Philippine Eagle Week was being observed. According to him, the majestic eagle is one the country’s most prized possessions but they now come in few. “There are less than 300 Philippine Eagles today, including the cap...
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15Jun2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, June 15 (PIA) -- A book on Kapampangan script or “Kulitan,” which is one of the various indigenous writing scripts in the Philippines, will be launched on Saturday, June 23 by the Holy Angel University (HAU) - Center for Kapampangan Studies (CKS). The book, entitled, “An Introduction to Kulitan: The Indigenous Kapampangan Script,” was written by a Kapampangan scholar Michael Raymon Pangilinan. Pangilinan is known as the “Siuala ding Meangubie (voice of the d...
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14Jun2012DAVAO CITY, June 14 (PIA-- The old Spanish fort of Pikit which recently has been declared as a national historical landmark is being eyed for further preservation efforts by the local government of North Cotabato. During a press conference in Davao City last June 9, Governor Emmylou Taliño said that the municipal local government has put up a memorandum banning the building of new structures inside the fort which was built by the Spanish Army in 1893 part of a series of fortifications aimed t...
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14Jun2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, June 14 (PIA) -- “It is very obvious that Pamintuan Mansion has a very important play in the history of our country.” This was the statement made by Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. during the 114th Philippine Independence Day celebration held on Tuesday at Pamintuan Mansion, where it first celebrated the Philippine Independence anniversary on June 12, 1899. “The mansion is where the first Independence Day celebration took place and that’...
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14Jun2012SAN JUAN CITY, June 14 (PIA) -- Filipinos should carry on the struggles of the nation's heroes by devoting collective energies to fight poverty and injustice. This was the message of Senator Aquilino Martin “Koko” D. Pimentel III during the 114th Independence Day, as he laid a wreath at the Pinaglabanan Shrine in San Juan City, Metro Manila. "The heroism of our freedom fighters who shed their blood at the Battle of Pinaglabanan should continue to inspire us to fight for a strong and mode...
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14Jun2012KALIBO, Aklan, June 14 (PIA6) -- Kalibo Mayor William Lachica called on parents and teachers to educate children on the history of the Philippines as he led yesterday’s celebration of the 114th Independence Day at the Kalibo Pastrana Park here. In his message, Lachica said the Filipinos owe their freedom to heroes during the Spanish period, World War II and the EDSA Revolution, and the present-day policemen and soldiers who continue to defend our freedom. “Our history is also sometimes f...
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13Jun2012Misamis Occidental has found a way to honor the nation's heroes as it named some of its towns as a tribute to them. Foremost of these heroes are Jose Protacio Rizal, Graciano Lopez-Jaena, Marcelo Hilario Del Pilar, and Andres De Castro Bonifacio, after whom four of the province’s 14 towns are named: Calamba, Lopez-Jaena, Plaridel, and Bonifacio. The triumvirate of Rizal, Lopez-Jaena, and Del Pilar had strongly manifested their nationalism and love of country in the publication “La Solida...
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13Jun2012ILOILO CITY, June 13 (PIA 6) -- Chancellor Rommel A. Espinosa of the University of the Philippines in the Visayas (UPV) underscored during the 114th Philippine Independence Day the need for a healthy co-existence between humans and the environment. “True independence starts with respect,” said Chancellor Espinosa who was guest speaker of the Iloilo City government during the observance of independence day as he emphasized that “self respect emanates from the true value of being what i...
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13Jun2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, June 13 (PIA) – Angeles City is not just an entertainment center but rather a city that is rich in culture and history as well as delicious foods. This was bared by Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan during the 114th Independence Day Celebration held at Pamintuan Mansion yesterday. Some of the entertainment centers are Casino Filipino - Angeles, Mimosa Golf and Country Club, Meanwhile Comedy, and Resto Bar, among others. “We are already attracting a lot of local and foreign t...
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13Jun2012KORONADAL CITY, June 13 (PIA) -- Fort Pikit in the town of Pikit in North Cotabato is now a national historical landmark. The fort, located on a hill at the back of the municipal hall of Pikit, is the first national historical landmark in North Cotabato, according to Gov. Emmylou “Lala” J. Talino-Mendoza. “The long wait is over,” said Joey Recimilla, head of the technical working group that the governor creates to conduct research and documentation of the historical site. More than...
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13Jun2012TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, June 12 (PIA) -- Early morning rains failed to douse the patriotic spirit of various social sectors who participated in 114th Philippine Independence Day celebrations in the province. In Panabo City, participants to the Independence Day civic parade got drenched in rain as they walked about two kilometers from the new City Hall in barangay J.P. Laurel to various places in the city including the old City Hall, Panabo City Museum and Bulwagan Center. Among the civi...
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12Jun2012ILOILO CITY, June 12 (PIA 6) -- Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog underscored the importance of freedom as he led the observance of the 114th Philippine Independence Day in a ceremony held at the Plaza Libertad, this City. “Countless lives were lost in the long and bloody quest for freedom,” Mayor Mabilog said before the multi-sectoral group attending the early morning ceremony. Mayor Mabilog also said that in celebrating the Philippine Independence, “we must celebrate the values of our re...
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12Jun2012MANILA, June 12 (PIA) -- Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina led the flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies at the Mausoleo de los Veteranos de la Revolucion in the Manila North Cemetery as part of today's commemoration of the country's 114th Independence Day. The ceremony is part of the simultaneous flag-raising activities held in key historical areas in the country and a symbolic way of remembering the day when the Philippines declared its independe...
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12Jun2012BUTUAN CITY, June 12 (PIA) -- The city government spearheaded the commemoration of the 114th Philippine Independence Day this morning with the flag-raising ceremony at the city hall grounds. The simple ceremony, attended by local government officials, employees from the national government agencies and led by the Department of Education (DepEd) focused on commemorating the gallantry and patriotism shown by the Filipino ancestors as they fought for the country’s independence against the Spanis...
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12Jun2012CALOOCAN CITY, June 12 (PIA) -- Justice Secretary Leila De Lima on Tuesday likened today's social networking sites to the "La Solidaridad," a newspaper of patriotic Filipino liberals during the Philippine Revolution. Speaking before a crowd gathered at the Andres Bonifacio Monument to commemorate the 114th Independence Day rites in the historic city, De Lima said Facebook and Twitter, just like the La Solidaridad of old, are keeping Filipinos abreast with current socio-political issues, which i...
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12Jun2012SABLAN, Benguet, June 12 (PIA) - - The provincial government of Benguet welcomed here yesterday the Cordillera Unity Relay and spearheaded the ceremonial beating of the gong and a cañao – a native thanksgiving ritual. Governor Nester Fongwan received the unity relay gong from the Abra delegation, headed by the provincial Vice Governor Rolando Somera. The Cordillera Unity Relay, which started at the historical Mt. Data Hotel in Bauko, Mountain Province last May 28, is a major activity of 25...
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12Jun2012SAN JOSE, Antique, June 12 (PIA) -- The province of Antique joins the whole nation in celebrating the 114th Independece Day in simple rites. To be headed by Gov. Exequiel B. Javier, the day will start with a flag-raising ceremony and followed by a short program at the EBJ Freedom Park, where Cong. Paolo Javier, Gov. Javier and Vice Gov. Rosie Dimamay are set to deliver their Independence Day messages at 8:00 a.m. A tree planting activity at Brgy Ilabas, Sibalom will cap the day's celebration w...
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11Jun2012SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, June 11 (PIA) -- A joint commemoration of the 114th National Independence Day is set tomorrow, June 12 by the Provincial Government of La Union and the City Government of San Fernando. It will be held in front of the City Hall where the monument of national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal is situated. According to the La Union Provincial Information and Tourism Office (PITO), the event will start with a flag-raising ceremony at exactly 7:00 a.m. to be followed by a ceremon...
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11Jun2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, June 11 (PIA) -- Two of Central Luzon’s historic sites which contributed in the establishment and enrichment of the First Philippine Republic take center stage tomorrow for the 114th Independence Day celebration. In Malolos City, President Benigno Aquino III will lead the flag raising and wreath laying rites in Barasoain Church where the country’s inaugural constitution was drafted in 1898, the first free Asian nation to do so. Aquino is expected to deliver ...
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11Jun2012CEBU CITY, June 11 (PIA) -- A mass will kickoff the celebration of the 114th Philippine Independence Day in Cebu City tomorrow with a Cebuano-translated theme “Kagawasan: Kaakuhan sa Nasud Aland sa Tul-id nga Dalan (Kalayaan: Pananagutan ng Bayan para sa Tuwid na Daan).” Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama will lead the pack of city officials and employees for the celebration at the Plaza Sugbu with the mass to start at 7:30 in the morning. The popular San Diego Dance Company will have a presenta...
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07Jun2012QUEZON CITY, June 7 (PIA) -- Organizers led by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) said the 114th Independence Day celebrations dubbed “Kalayaan 2012” will be reflective of the Filipino culture and arts. The event commemorates the country's independence from Spain on June 12, 1898, and will have for its theme “Kalayaan: Pananagutan ng Bayan para sa Tuwid na Daan.” Festivities will begin with Paco Park Presents “Panata sa Kalayaan,” a free musical tribute ...
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06Jun2012Apart from farmers, Central Luzon, which is known as the rice granary of the country, have produced singers such as Regine Velasquez and Jessica Sanchez;and, artists like Vicente Manansala, Juan Crisostomo Soto, and Aurelio Tolentino. The region, too, is home to heroes. "Yes, Region 3 played a big role on the struggle towards the independence of the country," narrates Department of Education Regional Director Isabelita Borres in her keynote speech during last week's celebration of National Flag...
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04Jun2012BUTUAN CITY, Agusan del Norte, June 4 (PIA) -- Archaeologists of the National Museum of the Philippines have already finished 1/3 of the excavation of the fourth Balangay boat. Balangay boats were sturdy boats made from hard wood that were believed to have traversed from other Asian countries to trade with Pinoys thousands of years ago. According to Alfredo Orogo, researcher of the National Museum of the Philippines, they were given until June 18 to expose the entire Balangay boat, without dama...
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03Jun2012SOLANO, Nueva Vizcaya, June 3 (PIA) -- The local government unit has sponsored a photo contest to instill awareness and significance of its history to its residents. Mayor Philip Dacayo said the photo contest, dubbed “Sulyap sa Nakaraan sa mata ng Makabagong Henerasyon,” is open to all residents and non-residents of this municipality. “This project aims to instill awareness on the historical account showing the progress and development of Solano since its institution and to educate Solan...
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01Jun2012SAN JOSE, Antique, June 1 (PIA) -- Various local government units (LGU), government agencies, schools, other government and private entities and Filipinos in general are encouraged to observe the National Flag Week slated May 28 to June 12 every year. By virtue of Proclamation No. 374 of 1965, May 28 of every year was declared as National Flag Day in commemoration of the Battle of Alapan in 1898 where the first flag was unfurled after the Philippine Revolutionary Army defeated Spanish forces. ...
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31May2012KIANGAN, Ifugao, May 31 (PIA)-- The Ifugao Archaelogical Project (IAP) will open its first field school on June 6 at a village here in collaboration with the Save the Ifugao Terraces Movement, Inc. (SITMO), National Museum of the Philippines, Ifugao State University, University of the Philippines, and the local government unit (LGU) here. Eulalie Dulnuan, executive assistant of Kiangan Mayor Joselito Guyguyon, said the project will focus on the Old Kiyyangan Village which is located about fo...
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30May2012DAVAO CITY May 30 (PIA) -- Are all Philippine eagles the same? A research is being planned to see if there are genetic differences or mutation between Philippine Eagles (Pithecophaga jefferyi) in Mindanao and those found in Luzon. Dennis Salvador, president of the Philippine Eagle Foundation said that scientists are trying to look at the genetic variations of the Philippine Eagles found in the different islands of the Philippine Archipelago. The research will be conducted by the University...
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30May2012LAGAWE, Ifugao, May 30 (PIA) -- The provincial local government unit here created recently the Batad Rice Terraces Task Force to oversee the implementation of the Batad Rice terraces rehabilitation project. Chaired by Provincial Agriculturist Raymundo Bahatan, the task force shall exercise the following functions: formulate developmental plans and policies regarding the Batad Rice Terraces Rehabilitation Project; responsible in the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the project; perf...
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30May2012ZAMBOANGA CITY, May 30 (PIA) -- Zamboanga City joined the entire nation in the observance of National Flag Day on May 28, reaffirming loyalty and commitment to the Philippine flag and the country. Organized by the Caballeros de Colon de Zamboanga and the fourth Degree of the Nuestra Señora La Virgen del Pilar Assembly, the event commemorated the day the Philippine flag was unfurled in 1898. Mayor Celso Lobregat, who keynoted the event, cited the significance of the Philippine flag and hoped t...
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29May2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, May 28 (PIA6) -- If only all households and business establishments do what the Capicenos are required to do, it would be a soul stirring sight to behold. Over at Capiz, all establishments in Roxas city are required to display the Philippine flag on or before May 28 until June 30 in view of the National Flag Day and the 114th Philippine Independence Day on June 12 celebrations. Different teams from the city hall were dispatch to campaign and remind establishments to relive t...
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28May2012BUTUAN CITY, May 28 (PIA) -- Six field archeologists from the National Museum of the Philippines in Metro Manila arrived here recently to resume the excavation of the remaining six out of nine balangay boats in Ambangan, Barangay Libertad, this city; three had already been excavated in the late 70s. Erlisa Magdale, museum guide and curator of the Caraga region’s national museum said the field archeologists were given one month to finish the excavation of the remaining balangay boats in Barang...
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28May2012SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 28 (PIA) -- Two of Central Luzon’s historic places has been chosen as among the main venues of the simultaneous flag raising rites in celebration of the country's 114th Independence Day on June 12. President Benigno S. Aquino III will personally lead the flag-raising and laying of wreath at the Barasoain Church in Malolos City, Bulacan while Tourism secretary Ramon Jimenez will spearhead the Freedom Day event in Pamintuan Mansion in Angeles City. The other main v...
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28May2012TARLAC CITY, May 28 (PIA) -- Emarlyn Zaira Rosario from Gerona town was crowned Kuran Festival Queen Thursday night besting nine other competitors during the grand coronation night held at the Maria Cristina Park. The 22-year old Rosario, who is a registered nurse, got the nod of the judges with her answer to the question whether she would be a plain housewife or a working mother when she gets married in the future. “I think, as long as you love what you are doing you can perform differen...
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27May2012Tarlac, popularly known as the “Sugar Capital of Luzon” because of its vast sugar plantations, will be celebrating its 139th founding anniversary on Monday, May 28, with activities slated for the week-long celebration which kicked-off Sunday last week, May 20. The province’s anniversary celebration this year, which features a trade exhibit of the different Tarlaqueno products, franchising fair, sports festival, the first Kuran-Tayab Festival, design and art painting contest, talent show,...
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26May2012QUEZON CITY, May 26 (PIA) --The Office of the President has released Memo Circular # 01 s. 2011 directing the Chair of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines Dir. Maria Serena I. Diokno, through Administrative Order No. 23, to Chair and organize the steering committee on national observance. The other members of the steering committee who will undertake the planning and implementation of these activities include Sec. Jesse M. Robredo of the Department of Interior and Local Gover...
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26May2012QUEZON CITY, May 26 (PIA) -- President Benigno S. Aquino will lead a simultaneous flag raising ceremony nationwide and wreath-laying ceremonies on June 12 at the historical Barasoain Church in Malolos City, Bulacan on June 12 to commemorate the 114th Anniversary of the Philippine Independence Day, and the 25th Anniversary of the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines. According to the National Historical Council of the Philippines (NHCP) Director Maria Serena Diokno, there will be...
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26May2012QUEZON CITY, May 26 (PIA)- Millions of Filipinos on Friday lauded American with Filipino-Mexican descent Jessica Sanchez even as she finished second place in “American Idol” on Thursday morning (Philippine time) in Los Angeles, California, United States. Among those who extended their warmest felicitations were Malacañang, Vice President Jejomar Binay and the people of Samal, Bataan. In a press statement, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said Sanchez has already “obtained ...
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25May2012CEBU CITY, May 25 (PIA) --Seven local museums here partnered with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) Dolores Aboitiz Children’s Fund (DACF) for the "Gabii sa Kabilin" or Night of Heritage held today, May 25. Under the partnership, Casa Gorordo Museum is spearheading kid-friendly activities during the Gabii sa Kabilin from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the same day. Said activity will be undertaken interactively and Cebuano participants are expected to have fun while learning about their Cebuan...
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25May2012What people wear provides the most basic description of a people. How it is worn often demonstrates the identity of the people, environment and culture; the final product – the traditional attire. “Traditional costumes” is reflective of one’s identity and mirrors the tribe’s rich historic past – as that of the Yakans. The Yakans are the native inhabitants of Basilan. Their home is in Lamitan. They are basically upland rice farmers and known to be the finest weavers in Southern Phil...
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25May2012The emergence of tourism industry as potential economic propeller of every town or province has made the entire Philippine archipelago as the bastion of local festivals, as almost every town and city in the archipelago has their own version and taglines of a festival, celebrating unity and diversity, abundance of local products, and showcasing local culture and traditions. A town or province is also identified by its festival—its people’s culture, traditions, and lifestyle as expressed in ...
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24May2012One hundred thirty nine years ago, the colonial government of Spain founded a landlocked province that is to become a melting pot of two diverse cultures sharing the same aspirations. This is the story of Tarlac, where Ilokanos and Kapampangans perfectly blend. Historical accounts revealed that what came to be known as Tarlac today was once a thickly forested area peopled by roving tribes of nomadic Aetas. Its name was derived from a talahib-like weed called “Malatarlak.” The establishment...
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23May2012BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, May 23 (PIA) -- Ordinary villagers and visitors in this province are now in a festive mood as the town of Bayombong has been transformed into an area of fun, entertainment, local trade fair and cultural center designed to promote the rich cultural history, achievements on local governance and unity of all sectors. All these form of excitement and celebration lead to Ammungan Festival, a yearly celebration of the 173rd founding anniversary of Nueva Vizcaya where young a...
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23May2012A known Kalinga delicacy called the “inandila” took the spotlight during the “85th Patronal Fiesta of the St. Joseph Parish Church” and 2nd Inandila Festival of Barangay Naneng of this city held from March 17 to 19. Dubbed as the “Longest Inandila,” the native delicacy cooked and prepared by the women in the barangay was displayed last March 18 on makeshift tables. The 5 cm by 15 cm inandela with an estimated total length of 80 meters were laid end to end in three rows cove...
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23May2012QUEZON CITY, May 22 (PIA) -- An exhibit about the life of National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal will be shown on May 26 to June 17 at the Whitespace Museum, 2314 Pasong Tamo Extension in Barangay Magallanes, Makati City. It is organized by the Manila Contemporary and is dubbed, "Through the Looking GLASS: Jose Rizal." The exhibit features works by Zeus Bascon, Francis Commeyne, Fernan Escora, Francisco Guerrero, Jacob Lindo, Lee Paje, Don Salubayba, Carina Santos, Luis Santos, Erik Sausa, Shireen Seno...
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23May2012CANIGAO Island, Matalom, Leyte, May 23 (PIA) -- Summer vacation is ending, but to regular visitors who tirelessly kept on coming back this scenic islet, there will always be no end -- rather, there is only a new beginning in excitement and anticipation for the next visit. “About 40 percent of my problems are solved everytime I come to this island,” a middle-aged man was overheard saying as he packed his things, strapped the huge bag over his shoulders, and walked to a waiting Rutchell ...
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23May2012ZAMBOANGA CITY, May 236t (PIA) -- Old folks think that today’s generation seems to find fascination and entertainment in the world of Internet, computer games and gadgets. Most youngsters today fail to get the chance to experience the once popular “larong Pinoy” or the games of the past that most Filipino youth and children used to play before. To revive the popularity of the “larong Pinoy” among the youth, the Department of Tourism (DOT) in partnership with the city government, initi...
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21May2012TARLAC CITY, May 21 (PIA) -- Tarlac will be celebrating its 139th founding anniversary with the Kuran-Tayab festival. Museo ng Probinsya officer-in-charge Elmer Bulaon said, “the festival seeks to highlight the distinct Tarlaqueño culture which is a perfect blend of Kapampangan and Ilokano traditions.” Bulaon added that, “for so many years, Tarlac did not have any distinct festival that is unique to its locale. Although the province annually celebrates the Araw ng Lalawigan, the missing...
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19May2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, May 19 (PIA) -- The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is urging local government units (LGU) in Capiz to observe the National Flag Day on May 28. The call from the DILG is pursuant to a Memorandum Circular 2012 – 90 issued by the agency where Secretary Jesse M. Robredo encouraged all Local Chief Executives (LCEs) to install or display Philippine flags in local government buildings and major thoroughfares on or before May 28 to June 30. The flags may a...
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19May2012DIPOLOG CITY, May 19 (PIA) -- Having displayed their exemplary works in visual arts, 10 self-made artists of this city have been recently declared as outstanding local artists by the Ivabelle Awards. Outstanding artist awards have been conferred on Pastor Ron Forinas, Aldren Elman, Bert Balladares, Lea Abigail Prima, Junie Grapa, Ku Gamalinda-Fernandez, Jaira Jaro, Faith Veloro, Lordan Reganion, and Leo Maquiala. They were chosen by a group of judges from among the local artists who participa...
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18May2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, May 18 (PIA6) -- The Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) in Capiz opened last May 16 an artifacts exhibit at the Atrium of the Provincial Capitol here, as part of the Heritage Month celebration this May. The exhibit showcased privately owned antiques and other artifacts, which were donated to the various local government units as were requested by the PTCAO to be made available for free public viewing. Capiz Gov. Victor A. Tanco, Sr. led other local govern...
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18May2012QUEZON CITY, May 18 (PIA) -- To celebrate the integrity and value of the Philippine flag, the country will celebrate National Flag Day on May 28. A flag raising ceremony, to be led by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will take place on that day at the Pambansang Dambana ng Watawat ng Lahi in Imus, Cavite. Director Maria Serena I. Diokno, head of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) and this year’s chair of the National Steering Committee, will be assisted by ...
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17May2012SIQUIJOR, May 17 (PIA) -- The San Isidro Labrador Parish in Lazi, Siquijor unveiled its official church marker to mark the National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines on the feast of San Isidro Labrador on May 15, 2012. The unveiling ceremony followed the blessing of the Retablo Mayor and pulpits officiated by Most Rev Archbishop Onesimo Gordoncillo with special participation of U.S. Embassy Cultural Affairs Officer Allan Holst. A certificate of declaration declaring the church as National ...
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17May2012SAN JOSE,Antique, May 17 (PIA) -- A conference that will introduce a framework for cultural resources and heritage management will open in San Jose, Antique May 17-18, 2012 with speakers and resource persons taking turns in sharing their enterpreneurial skills, organizational and artistic capabilities to participants coming from all parts of the province. Organized by Alex de los Santos, Artistic Director of Datu Lubay Center with support from the Antique Provincial Historical and Cultural Cou...
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17May2012SURIGAO CITY, May 17 (PIA) –- Governor Sol Matugas along with other local officials led the unveiling of Surigaonon Arts and Culture Center Tuesday at the provincial sports complex here. The center showcases the heritage portraits and memorabilia depicting the richness of the Surigaonon culture. The event coincided with the 111th Founding Anniversary of Surigao on May 15. The province of Surigao was once a premier political jurisdiction in Mindanao when the American colonizers established a ...
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16May2012DUMAGUETE CITY, Negros Oriental, May 16 (PIA) -- The United States Embassy and representatives of the local government units of Siquijor and Lazi, National Museum and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts has unveiled on May 15 the newly-restored and renovated main altar and pulpits of the San Isidro Labrador Church in Lazi, Siquijor. The US Embassy has funded $15,000 for the conservation and restoration of the main altar and two pulpits of the San Isidro Labrador Church in Lazi, Si...
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16May2012HINGYON, Ifugao, May 16 (PIA) -- After long years of no longer practicing certain Ifugao traditions due to the influence of modernity, the people here has revived an ancient practice of choosing a future spouse called “ballihung” during its recently-concluded town fiesta. Held recently at Barangay Piwong, all eligible male and female ready to settle down were invited to join and experience this cultural practice of their ancestors and hopefully, be able to select their future spouse. The ...
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16May2012HINGYON, Ifugao, May 16 (PIA) -- Clad in their native attire, town folks here joined the local government unit in celebrating recently its 2012 town fiesta dubbed “Gotad ad Hingyon.” The event started with a parade around the town led by male folks beating gongs and participants from the different barangays showcasing their indigenous products. A street dancing followed, where most of the younger generation in their colorful ethnic attire represented their own cluster. Another highlight...
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16May2012CEBU CITY May 14 (PIA) --- The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) and the Alternative Contemporary Art Studio (ACAS) launched an art exhibit titled “Cuevas: A Retrospective (Iconography and Style),” last April 27 at the Casa Gorordo Museum. The exhibit pays tribute to the “Father of Abstract Expressionism in Cebu,” the late Wenceslao “Tito” Cuevas, in time for the 40th day of his death that fell on the exhibit’s launching day. RAFI and ACAS joined hands to mount the exhibit ...
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15May2012LUCENA CITY, Quezon, May 15 (PIA) -- The province of Quezon celebrates four festivals today such as Pahiyas, Agawan, Mayohan and Baluarte’t Arangya. Called as the “day of festivals,” every 15th of May, the municipalities of Lucban, Sariaya, Gumaca and Tayabas City celebrate these festivals as thanksgiving to San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers for bountiful harvest. In Lucban, Quezon, the Pahiyas festival starts with a procession along the houses decorated with colourful ‘...
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15May2012CEBU CITY, May 15 (PIA) -- The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) Culture and Heritage and its partners is set to hold the sixth run of “Gabii sa Kabilin (Heritage Night)” on May 25 from 6:00 p.m. to 12 midnight. In a press conference on May 3 at the Casa Gorordo Museum, RAFI Culture and Heritage executive director Jocelyn Gerra said, heritage places and museum sites are the soul and conscience of a society, the essence of who we are, “If we don't get to understand what they are, then i...
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14May2012SURIGAO CITY, May 14 (PIA) -- The ‘Panginabuhi-an sa Tagana-an’ Festival (Livelihood/source of living in Tagana-an town) outwit other eight contingents and walked away victorious in the first Sajaw Surigao Festival held Sunday, May 13 at the Provincial Sports Complex, this city. The event is one of the highlights in celebration of the 111th Founding Anniversary of Surigao on May 15, showcasing the unique culture, colorful history and convergence of festivals in the province of Surigao del N...
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13May2012TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, May 13 (PIA) -- Abatan River again takes on the festive beat on May 17 as riverside communities prepare a festive banquet for homecoming Boholanos attending the Tigum Bol-anon sa Tibuok Kalibutan (TBTK) this month. TBTK is a once-in-three years gathering of Boholanos who live abroad. The activity aims to pool ideas and resources on how to better develop Bohol even more. This also provides the venue for those born outside Bohol to trace their roots through programmed ...
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12May2012BUTUAN CITY, May 12 (PIA) - Pinoy na Pinoy Visual Artists Association, Inc. (PPVAAI) is set to conduct and art exhibition which will open on Tuesday, May 15, 2012 in one of the local hotels here aimed to instill public awareness on the beauty of visual arts. In an interview with PIA, Renante “Dubz” Dublois, PPVAAI founding chairman who is a native Butuanon said the activity is aimed at instilling public awareness especially the Butuanons the beauty of arts that can be interpreted through th...
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12May2012SURIGAO CITY, May 12 (PIA) -- Surigaonons and visitors will be treated to the locals’ purely distinct tasting dishes as the “Pagkaong Surigaonon” (Surigaonon Food) Food Festival will officially open on May 13-15, 2012 at the parking area inside the Provincial Sports Complex, this city. According to Prov’l Economic Enterprise Development and Management Officer Graciela Mante, the event is one of the series of activities in celebration of the 111th Founding Anniversary of Surigao on May 1...
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12May2012PAGADIAN CITY, May 12 (PIA) -- The local government of Bayog has thanked the people of its municipality for actively supporting its 45th founding anniversary highlighted by the “Palad-palad Festival.” In the grand finale’s opening program at the municipal government center, mayor Leonardo Babasa Jr. said he was deeply elated on the support shown by the municipal and barangay officials, teachers, students, parents, and employees for the successful conduct of the eight-day event from on May...
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11May2012BACOLOD CITY, May 11 (PIA6) --The Negros Museum(NM) is currently holding an exhibit on ‘Negrito' culture until the end of May. The photographs and artifacts aim to highlight a proud aspect of the Visayan heritage, NM Executive Director Tanya Lopez said. Early this month, the NM marked the National Heritage Event by holding the following activities: Dulhog- a market for Ati and Ayta products like rattan crafts; Demonstration on rattan preparation and weaving, explication to photos Malay ...
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11May2012SAN LUIS, Pampanga, May 11 (PIA) -- Preparations are underway for the commemoration of the birth anniversary of the former Huk Supremo, icon, and hero Luis Taruc on June 21. San Luis Mayor Venancio Macapagal and Dr. Romy Taruc, a descendant of the Supremo, are planning the activities which initially include the installation of a marker and wreath-laying on the area where the house of Taruc used to stand in barangay Sta Monica. During the 2nd World War, Taruc, together with Castro Alejandri...
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10May2012TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, May 10 (PIA) -- Malacañang recently signed Proclamation No. 373 Series of 2012 declaring May 28 as a special (non-working) day in Imus being the anniversary of the Battle of Alapan (Pambansang Araw ng Watawat) where the Philippine Flag was first unfurled. Executive Secretary N. Paquito Ochoa Jr. by the authority of the President signed the Proclamation last April 27 to give the people of Imus and the local government the opportunity to celebrate and participate in ...
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10May2012TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 10 (PIA) -- The Lamiraw Literary Arts Organization of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the Calbayog Literary Arts Organization (CALAO Writers) Inc. are accepting applications to the 9th Lamiraw Creative Writing Workshop (LCWW) slated on November 6-9, 2012 at the NwSSU-AVR, Calbayog City, Samar. This was learned from Phil Harold L. Mercurio, chair of the selection committee, in a press release. According to Mercurio, 15 slots are at stake: three guest fell...
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10May2012TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, May 10 (PIA) -- The Lamiraw Literary Arts Organization of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) and the Calbayog Literary Arts Organization (CALAO Writers) Inc. are accepting applications to the 9th Lamiraw Creative Writing Workshop (LCWW) slated on November 6-9, 2012 at the NwSSU-AVR, Calbayog City, Samar. This was learned from Phil Harold L. Mercurio, chair of the selection committee, in a press release. According to Mercurio, 15 slots are at stake: three guest fel...
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10May2012LAGAWE, Ifugao,May 10 (PIA) -- The Plan International and European Union organized a national media visit in Barangay Caba here, in an effort to raise public awareness about the Lagawe Children’s Advocates (LCA) and its efforts to protect children. Airah Cadiogan, Media Relations and Campaign Coordinator of Plan International, Inc., said that the project, “Strengthening Civil Society in Eliminating Violence Against Children in the Philippines" has been implemented here since 2011, with the ...
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10May2012HINGYON, Ifugao, May 10 (PIA) -- The local government unit (LGU) here and the Ifugao Global Entrepreneurs Multi-Purpose Cooperative (IGEMCO) invite the public in the launching of the community-based tourism which will feature an ancient mumbaki (native priest) tradition in the province known as “Ballihung.” This activity will jumpstart this year’s town fiesta dubbed as “Gotad ad Hingyon” set on May 9 to 11, featuring different cultural activities and showcasing indigenous products and...
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10May2012CEBU CITY May 10 (PIA) --- A Cebu-based Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), University of San Carlos College of Architecture and Fine Arts-Conservation and Heritage Research Institute and Workshop (USC CAFA-CHERISH) and the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Cebu District-1 signed an agreement recently to focus energies on the Conservation Management Plan Training Workshop for architects. It was held on April 3 at the University of San Carlos Main Campus with a pool of architects fro...
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10May2012ISABELA CITY, Basilan, May 10 (PIA) -- The Superstar Nora Aunor, her co-stars and the film’s crew have just concluded their shooting recently of Brillante Mendoza’s new film entitled “Thy Womb”- a love drama portraying a Bajau couple’s sacrosanct relationship as husband and wife though unblessed with offspring. The controversial Cannes-film winning director Mendoza said in an interview that “this cultural and dramatic film would portray the people of Mindanao, especially, Tawi-Tawi ...
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10May2012LAOAG CITY, May 10 (PIA) -- Locals and tourists are in for a unique desert festival on May 10 when the provincial government marks the highlight of the ongoing La Milagrosa Festival at the Paoay sand dunes. The day-long event, considered as the festival highlight, is dubbed, “Himala sa Buhangin (Miracle on the Sand).” It starts with a line up of sand sports from sandcastle-building and a four-wheel drive race, and live music. Expected to stir the event are large-scale installations by art...
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09May2012KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, May 9 (PIA) -- “Where weaving traditions are strong there is a strong sense of community and the function of the women as caretakers of society is linked to their weaving,” said Prof. Felipe de Leon, chairman of the Philippine National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in his keynote speech at the 1st First Asian IKAT Weavers Conference in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. Blending Culture, Women Empowerment and Enterprise Development was the theme of the ...
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09May2012CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, May 9 (PIA) --The city government of Calamba is preparing for a week-long activities in observance of the 151st birth anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal. Activities tentatively scheduled include: opening of photo and Dr. Jose P. Rizal relics exhibit and Rizal Quiz spearheaded by the Department of Education (DepEd) on the occasion of the Philippines Independence day on June 12. Other activities are: Rizal Quiz elimination round up June 13-19; eye cataract clinic, June 14; S...
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09May2012DAVAO CITY, May 9 (PIA) -- The National Nutrition Council (NNC) in the region is working on producing a coffee table book to feature a compilation of distinct Davao food recipes. "Apart from promoting nutrition, the book aims to sell Davao as food tourism destination," NNC Regional Chief Teresa Ungson told the media on Monday’s weekly Kapihan sa Dabaw at SM City. Ungson explained that the book will be a fusion of different food and vegetable recipes with the distinct taste of Davao City. ...
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07May2012CORREGIDOR ISLAND, Cavite City, May 7 (PIA) -- "We commemorate the Fall of Corregidor 70 years ago, but more than the fall, we commemorate our soldiers’ acts of bravery and their unconditional sacrifice for country,” President Benigno S. Aquino III said in his speech. The President was the guest speaker at the 70th memorial commemoration of the Fall of Corregidor held yesterday at Dome Altar, Pacific War Memorial, Topside Corregidor Island. “Today, we pay tribute not to the strength ...
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07May2012TACLOBAN CITY, May 7 (PIA) -- Preparations are underway for the forthcoming Leyte fiesta celebration on June 30, highlighting the festival of festivals in honor of Sr. Sto. Niño, the Patron Saint. During the meeting attended by heads and representatives from government and socio-civic organizations, held recently at the SMED Center this city, list of different activities together with the corresponding month-long daily schedule were presented as the working guide for the different committees ...
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07May2012LUCBAN, Quezon, May 7 (PIA) -- Thousands of local and foreign tourists started to flock in this historic town to witness the colorful and exciting activities in ”Lucban San Isidro Pahiyas Festival,” which began on April 8 and will last until May 16. This year’s theme of the pahiyas festival is “It’s more fun in Pahiyas sa Lucban.” Cornelio R. Raneses, municipal administrative officer who is also the overall coordinator of the pahiyas sa Lucban said around 300,000 to 500,00 tourist...
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07May2012VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur, May 7 (PIA) -- The Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival of the Arts was born into the culture of residents and the Ilocanos through the Feast Day of the Natives of Vigan, which started on May 3, 1883. On April 28 until May 6 this year Biguenos once more paid homage to the miraculous Santo Cristo who saved their city from an epidemic which killed 934 in a month in 1882. According to the writings of Damaso King, well-known Vigan historian, the epidemic started November 12 and ...
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07May2012VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur, May 7 (PIA) -- The best time of the year to discover the native cloth, abel Iloco, is during the yearly Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival of the Arts where all abel products available in the market are in their glorious moment displayed on the façade of ancestral houses, and business centers in the city. Place mats with designs of butterflies, flowers and leaves are folded into fans; blankets and table runners where the words Viva Vigan are pinned or glued. Cellphone po...
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06May2012PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan, May 6 (PIA) -- Ille Cave in El Nido is getting the support of Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero in its bid to be recognized and designated as one of the country’s heritage park as proposed in a Sangguniang Panlalawigan resolution. The resolution to declare Ille Cave as a heritage and national park, according to the senator, needs immediate joint government action in local and national levels in order to preserve the pieces of evidence unearthed from the site...
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05May2012TACLOBAN CITY Leyte, May 5 (PIA) -- Now in Region 8 to awaken Eastern Visayans’ appreciation for Filipino and Asian artistic traditions is the Kontemporaryong Gamelan Pilipino (also known as Kontra Gapi). Led by U.P. Professor Edru Abraham, this music and dance ensemble uses indigenous Filipino instruments like the Maranao kulintang, Cordillera flat gongs called the gangsa, and a variety of wind instruments and xylophones made of bamboo to produce mesmerizing music. Department of Tourism ...
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04May2012BASCO, Batanes May 4 (PIA) -- The municipality of Uyugan is set to celebrate town fiesta on May 10, featuring its 5th Kamanidungan festival. Kamanidungan, from the root word "manidung" which means to help, is a local term for cooperativism, concentrated on house making, a genuine traditional cooperativism that is still strong in Uyugan. The peculiarity of the traditional cooperativism begins with the provision of housing materials for a traditional house such as posts, lumber, cogon, reeds, ...
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03May2012DUMAGUETE CITY, May 3 (PIA) -- The Dumaguete City Tourism Office will hold its Santacruzan Festival on Friday, May 4. A Mass celebration at the Cathedral Church will start the event. Tourism officer Woodrow Maquiling said his office and the City Tourism Council prepared a series of events that would attract tourists and visitors to come and be a part of the celebration. At the same time, these activities will be synced with religious events at the Church, especially novena masses which will ...
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03May2012DUMAGUETE CITY, May 3 (PIA) -- A traveling exhibit on Spanish-era churches opens today at the Church of Nuestra Senora del Pilar in Sibonga, Cebu province for public viewing. The exhibit, organized by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) and Ortigas Foundation, Inc., is dubbed “Hidden Treasures: An Exhibit of Spanish-Era Churches of the Philippines.” The exhibit kicked-off earlier on April 18 at the Cathedral Museum of Cebu, which was also the International Day of Monuments and Sites...
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03May2012ANTIPOLO CITY, May 3 (PIA) -- Around 5,000 devotees participated in the Annual Walk for Peace from Quiapo church to the Antipolo Cathedral last April 30 to May 1 according to the Antipolo City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office. City and municipal governments from Quezon City, Pasig, Taytay and Cainta also coordinated with the Antipolo City government in order to create action centers in areas along the route of the traditional pilgrimage. A total of 11 command centers with 6 rescue ...
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02May2012KIANGAN, Ifugao, May 2 (PIA) -- The World Heritage Committee (WHC) recently released the infrastructure guidelines for the Ifugao rice terraces to address issues that impact primarily on this aspect of the terraces, encompassing its structure, the nearby houses, roads, dams, bridges, and adjunct structures. Copies of the guidelines were distributed to the six affected barangays and all concerned involved in the preservation, protection, and maintenance of the Ifugao rice terraces, which is en...
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01May2012TAGBILARAN CITY, May 1 (PIA) --A stirring photograph of fishermen hauling off a thresher shark into a boat near Balicasag found its way to a social network and spawned enough criticisms for Bohol, a day before the province launches a new eco-tourism campaign slogan. The photo has been featured in a national television while it has had 39 shares and has generated 80 comments since it was posted last Wednesday (April 25). A female marine researcher from the Thresher Shark Research and Conserv...
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30Apr2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, April 30 (PIA6) -- Panay town mayor Dante Bermejo said that this year’s municipal fiesta dubbed “Linga-anay 2012” will highlight the need to harmonize culture and nature. “Through this event, we wanted to inculcate in the minds of the community, particularly the Pan-ayanon, the practice of environmental conservation as a way of life,” he said. Bermejo revealed that the five-day Lingga-anay festivity will kick off on April 30 with a Diana, community mass and the B...
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30Apr2012QUEZON CITY, April 30 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will launch this afternoon a stage play entitled “Laot, Lungsod, Langit: Mga Kuwentong Sama Dilaut” at the Open Air Auditorium in Rizal Park, Manila. The stage play is a story of the Bajau with the Sama-Dilaut (Bajaus) women living in Manila as featured performers. DSWD collaborated with the National Parks Development Committee and Teatro Filipino Inc. for the staging of this cultural play in an effort ...
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30Apr2012ZAMBOANGA CITY, April 30 (PIA) -- The City’s museum or “El Museo de Zamboanga” located at the Jardin Maria Clara in Pasonanca was formally unveiled recently, reinforcing the present administration’s thrust to preserve its culture and history and in line with the City Development Strategy agenda for advancement. Mayor Celso Lobregat and Vice Mayor Cesar Iturralde together with members of the majority in the City Council spearheaded the inauguration that coincided with the celebration of...
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26Apr2012"How far is it?" We asked a group of women basket weavers how long it would take us to get to the caves of San Isidro town. We were a small group of adventure mountain bikers out to explore the beauty of Bohol countryside and the terrain that San Isidro town provides. “Cantijong, you mean? It’s still a bit far,” one replied, completing the action with the non-verbal gesture of the snout to the general direction of the southwest. In Bohol, a gesture of a snout means a distance of at le...
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26Apr2012SAN CARLOS CITY, April 26 (PIA) -- A week-long of activities in this city have commenced to promote its prime products - the bamboo and mango in what is aptly called the Mango-Bamboo Festival. City Information Officer Rachel Sapigao outlined the activities that started April 23 with a Thanksgiving Mass, a parade, and an opening program followed by a Farmers and Homemakers Day and the Kabataan at Komedya Night for officers and members of the Sangguniang Kabataan. Balikbayans flew to this ci...
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25Apr2012LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, April 25 (PIA) -- The town of Kapangan will hold its 4th Anitap Festival, a cultural celebration showcasing cultural performances handed down through generations, on Friday, April 27. The festival is coined after Anitap, an indigenous plant used in making the indigenous musical instrument called “tallak.” Anitap wood is light in weight and produces distinct sound, depending on how it is carved. Long before the introduction of the metal gongs, tallak was used in the...
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24Apr2012CEBU CITY, April 24 (PIA) -- The municipality of Argao may soon become Cebu’s historical tourist destination as the town’s oldest church features religious antiques, some dating back to the 15th century. The Museu de la Parroquia de San Miguel in Argao, in Southern Cebu, houses antique statues made of gold, silver, and ivory as well as other religious symbols like wooden altar and tabernacle. Also stored in the museum is a silver “carrosa” used during religious processions in the ancie...
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24Apr2012Camiguin’s piece of paradise, once a fishing village, now offers a fantastic island experience. The Mantigue Island Nature Park, gleaming with white beaches filled of powdery coral and surrounded by crystal clear water, is more of an adventure than a sight-seeing experience - one of the best when in Camiguin. It lies only three kilometers off from barangay San Roque shore in the town of Mahinog. The 15-minute motor boat ride gives an added thrill to the visitors and allows a great view of...
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23Apr2012SANTA CRUZ, Laguna, April 23 (PIA) -- After a successful launch last year of the "La Laguna Festival-The Festival of Life, the Philippines Best Tourism Event of the Year," the provincial government of Laguna launched the 2nd La Laguna Festival with the theme: “Uno Progreso…Una sa Saya, Buhay Laguna!” last April 20 at the Provincial Capitol Grounds here. The festival, which is conceptualized by Governor Jeorge “E.R.” Ejercito-Estregan, advocates the importance of the rehabilitation a...
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21Apr2012LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, April 15 (PIA) — Participants to the Writers’ Forum composed mostly of aspiring writers, teachers and students were told to dress up formally. “No rubber shoes, no t-shirts and no jeans are allowed,” they had been told, as National Artist in literature will lecture on the craft of writing. The provincial library in which the forum on April 10 was to be held had been prepared—air-condition units all switched to high cool, lightings all switched on, the sound and ...
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21Apr2012When a Pangasinense steps in another province, give him a week and he could speak the native language in the area and converse with its natives. But when a person from another land comes to Pangasinan, it would seem forever for him to study and speak the native tongue. And if he could, he could never pronounce the words in its willful manner. Its because Pangasinan language is one-of-a kind. Its orthography is unique. It has no sister-language unlike the Iloco language. That is why Pangasina...
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20Apr2012Vincenzo Sagun, Zamboanga del Sur, April 20 (PIA) -- This little town is so blessed by nature, with the vastness of the sea surrounding it, marine resources also abound contributing much to the economy of the place. Mayor Edilberto Adlaon said Vincenzo Sagun municipal waters account for 30,185 hectares, far bigger than its land area which is only 6,518 hectares. No wonder they take pride in having fine white beaches, crystal clear waters, diving sites and coral formations proclaimed by divers/...
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20Apr2012DAGUPAN CITY, April 20 -- Twelve six-foot galvanized sculptures of bangus (milkfish) painted in eye-catching colors are now on display at the City Plaza as part of the Bangus Festival 2012. The art sculptures were products of artists coming from various provinces who competed for the Sculpture Painting contest held on April 12. The City Information Office reported that the tandem of Jun Rioferio and Rudy del Rosario, both from Pangasinan, bagged the first place. Their rendition of Gilon-Gilo...
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20Apr2012TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan, April 20 (PIA) -- Cave photos of 10 environment artists in an on-going exhibit continue to draw appreciative audiences less than a month after it opened to the public at the Cagayan Museum exhibit area of the provincial capitol. Cagayan Museum officials said that while it showcased the output of a photo workshop, it likewise served as a long-overdue tribute to the late Richard “Chang” Guzman, a multi-awarded Cagayano artists. Called "Cagayan: Art of Darkness Ca...
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20Apr2012SAN CARLOS CITY, April 20 (PIA) -- Seventeen-year old Danielle Magleo Dulay of barangay Bega here bested 14 other lovely girls for the crown as Miss San Carlos City 2012. The beauty pageant held last April 14 at the Arenas-Resuello Sports Complex was part of the city fiesta celebration dubbed Mango Bamboo Festival. The new beauty queen is a freshman Political Science student at the University of Pangasinan and daughter of Arthur and Imelda Dulay. She received a cash prize of worth P20,000.00....
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19Apr2012QUEZON CITY, April 19 (PIA) -- President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III will lead the country in the official unveiling of the Puerto Princesa Underground River as one of the world’s New 7 Wonders of Nature in an inaugural ceremony on April 21, Saturday, at Pasay City. The President, who will be accompanied by officials from the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Puerto Princesa City Government, and other top officials of the go...
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19Apr2012PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan, April 18 (PIA) -- The official announcement and formal inauguration of the Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR) as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature is set on April 21 with the participation of President Benigno Aquino III as the Keynote Speaker. Bernard Weber, founder of the New 7 Wonders international campaign will officially make the declaration of the PPUR as one of the winners of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Joining Weber in this event are the count...
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19Apr2012BASCO, Batanes April 19 (PIA) -- The local government has chosen to celebrate “Kulay festival” the traditional way by reviving customary games as part of the preservation effort of the Ivatan culture. For the past three years, traditional games are played to highlight sports festivals. Ivatan traditional games such as Kalasag, a game using coconut shell with a tie to hold on, on chest level for girls; Kadang-kadang, using bamboo or wooden stilts; the tatus (coconut crab) relay played thro...
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18Apr2012DUMAGUETE CITY, April 18 (PIA) -- The Visayan leg of a traveling exhibit on Spanish-era Churches of the Philippines was launched on April 18 at the Cathedral Museum of Cebu. The exhibit dubbed “Hidden Treasures: An Exhibit of Spanish-era Churches of the Philippines” was conceived by the Ortigas Foundation to inspire pride in the Filipinos’ cultural heritage. The exhibit’s arrival in Cebu and Bohol provinces is hosted by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) in partnership with t...
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18Apr2012SAMAL, Davao del Norte, April 18 (PIA) -- To promote tourism in the region, a three-day environmental, culture, arts, and music fair dubbed as “Pigkaysan sa Samal” will be held on May 4 to 6 at the Peñaplata Elementary School Ground, Brgy. Peñaplata, Samal District. Various activities are slated during the three-day affair, which would include tribal house displays, daily cultural presentations, art contests focusing on culture, a four-hour show featuring tribal culture and music to be pa...
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17Apr2012The Philippines is a nation blessed with 7,107 picturesque islands and visiting all of them would probably take a lifetime. But with Nayong Pilipino sa Clark, one is given a taste of each region’s best. Situated in the old Expo Pilipino complex, the 45-acre park contains replicas of famous edifices of the pre-colonial and colonial eras of our history. Marvel at their depiction of “Malakas at Maganda”- an ancient story that narrates the creation of Filipinos and take a peek into the lives...
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16Apr2012BUTUAN CITY, April 16 (PIA) -- City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante Jr. has declared March 9, 2012 to March 8, 2013 as the Balangay (wooden boats) Festival Silver Year. As per Proclamation No. 1, series of 2012 signed by the city’s chief executive recently, it stated that the balangays of Butuan have been declared National Cultural Treasures by former President Corazon C. Aquino through Presidential Proclamation No. 86 dated March 9, 1987. The proclamation also stated that the balangays, since its...
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16Apr2012TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, April 16 (PIA) -- Two bands from Bohol need their town's support to download their entries to land them a spot in the 2011 Kapisanan ng Mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Pop Music Festival’s upcoming album. Shortlisted after besting more than 300 entries when the competition opened last year, the Boholano rap/ rhythm and blues group Rhymatics (Tagbilaran) and rock group Cruisers Band (Loboc) hang on as they invite Boholanos to keep downloading their entries on the int...
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14Apr2012Even before Cagayan Valley Governor Alvaro Antonio stated that Cagayanos, “should never settle for mediocrity,” Richard Guzman of Tuguegarao City have already shown to the world that Cagayanos can hold a class of their own. Chang to friends, he was the unofficial yet acclaimed caving photography guru in the Philippines by Manila-based photographers. Not to be easily outdone, the Cagayano photographers now call him the more prestigious, "Father of Caving Photography." So just what’s in ...
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14Apr2012LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, April 14 (PIA) --The province of Pangasinan centered this year’s celebration of Pangasinan Day on local literature, featuring the presentation and awarding of winners of the Pangasinan Literary Awards held on April 11 in this town. Pangasinan Literary Awards or “Kurit Panlunggaring” is the very first literary contest in the province designed to encourage local writers to produce more literary works written in the native tongue as to pay tribute to the beauty of Pang...
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13Apr2012At least 13,320 domestic and foreign vacationers trooped to the Mountain View Park in Camp Bandilaan, Siquijor, Siquijor during the island’s big event - the Healing Festival last Holy Week. According to the Provincial Tourism Office here, Siquijor was packed with day-trippers, travelers, sightseers or trekkers the entire week not just to witness the festival but to explore the entire island. Some also sought respite in the island's tranquil places just like any traveler would want in this t...
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12Apr2012LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, April 12 (PIA) -- The province of Pangasinan pays tribute to local culture and language as it officially launched its own orthography on its 432nd founding anniversary celebration held today at the Capitol Plaza in this town. The orthography aims to revive Pangasinan’s culture and language so that the roots and identity of Pangasinenses will be preserved and enhanced. “It is an added cap to the province’s culture as the dialect will now have a roadmap as far as prop...
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11Apr2012SAN JOSE, Antique, April 11 (PIA) –- The Municipality of San Jose, capital town of Antique is gearing for the annual event dubbed ‘Tiringbanay’ Festival slated April 30 to May 2. In a press conference, Fe Corazon Malaya Tacogdoy, the town’s Tourism Assistant, at the same time Information Officer, said that the event is a celebration of homecoming of San Josenhons (residents of San Jose) and togetherness of families and friends in honor of its patron saint, St. Joseph the Worker. Tir...
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11Apr2012CAPAS, Tarlac, April 11 (PIA) -- President Benigno S. Aquino III’s aunt and former Tarlac governor spearheaded on Tuesday the 70th remembrance ceremony for the soldiers who were part of the infamous 1942 Death March at the Capas National Shrine in Tarlac. In the celebration dubbed, “Paggunita sa Capas,” former governor Margarita “Tingting” Cojuangco offered a wreath to the shrine then observed a moment of silence as a member of the Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor and a high school...
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11Apr2012CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro, April 11 (PIA) -- Two tourist destinations in Region 4B or MIMAROPA (Mindoro-Marinduque-Romblon-Palawan) have been listed as among the best diving sites in the world, according to last week’s posting of the travel news website of the Cable News Network (CNN). The CNN’s list of best dive sites in the world ranked eighth the Tubbataha reef, located southeast of Palawan, and 45th place “The Canyons” in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro. According to the sai...
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10Apr2012CAPAS, Tarlac Apr.10 (PIA) -- World War II heroes who perished and survived in the infamous Death March were remembered and honored for their valor and heroism in a ceremony held at the Capaz Shrine in Capaz, Tarlac. To honor the memory of soldiers who had perished in the horrible Death March, wreath of flowers were laid by the guest of honor Dr. Margarita R. Cojuangco, together with DND Usec. Eduardo G. Batac, PVAO Admin. LtGen Ernesto G. Carolina at the base of the 70 meters Obelisk towers ...
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10Apr2012BACOLOD CITY, April 10 (PIA6) - - Modern day leaders of Bacolod City paid tribute to the heroes of the second world war during the 70th Anniversary Celebration of the Fall of Bataan now known as Araw Ng Kagitingan at the Monument of the Unknown Soldiers at the Bacolod City Public Plaza, April 9. Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia led the local officials here with Veterans District Commander Pio C. Rodrigo, 303rd Brigade Commander Col. Oscar Lactao, Ret. Col. and Commander 3rd Post Edwin C. R...
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10Apr2012PILAR, Bataan, April 10 (PIA) -- As the nation commemorates the Fall of Bataan on Monday, a congressman has stated that the remembrance of the event is all about courage and fortitude. Second District Representative Albert Garcia explained, “Araw ng Kagitingan is no longer about guns and cannons that need to be neither fired nor about blood that needs to be shed. It is about the courage and fortitude which moved our veterans to bear arms at the time it was needed.” For about 70 years now, ...
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09Apr2012ILOILO CITY, April 9 (PIA6) -- The Jaro Belfry will soon rise from the ruins of time and seasons, as the Tourism Infra and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) has allotted P5 million for its restoration and rehabilitation. The Iloilo City Information Office said in a press release that the TIEZA team has visited and conducted ocular inspection of the Jaro Belfry and surrounding site recently. The belfry is one of the few in the country that stands apart from the church, as it was identified as...
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09Apr2012PILAR, Bataan Apr. 9 (PIA) -- Hundreds of World War II veterans were unfazed to travel the height of the Shrine of Valor site (Dambana ng Kagitingan) at Mt. Samat in Pilar, Bataan, in order to grace the annual Araw ng Kagitingan celebration to honor their bravery and courage during World War II. “I’m happy to be here. This is our moment. I’m also happy that people have never forgotten what we did in the past for our country” Gregorio Bumanlag, a war veteran, said in Filipino. Ret. Co...
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09Apr2012CITY OF BALANGA, Bataan, April 9 (PIA) -- Rekindling once again the valor of World War II veterans, President Benigno S. Aquino III is scheduled to lead today the commemorative rites for the Araw ng Kagitingan at Mt. Samat Shrine in Pilar town. President Aquino will deliver his message before an expected crowd of 3,000 people, composed mainly of living war veterans and their families, diplomatic corps, government officials and private citizens in a ceremony to commemorate the 70th anniversary o...
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09Apr2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, April 9 (PIA6) -- The new Roxas City fountain will be unveiled on April 13 as the city’s new tourist come-on in time with the province’s 111th foundation anniversary celebration dubbed “Capiztahan 2012.” Roxas City Vice-Mayor Ronnie Dadivas said the structure which has evolved into a dancing fountain has not lost its main feature – a replica of the chalice. The chalice used by Jesus Christ to symbolize salvation and deliverance of humankind from evil also represent...
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08Apr2012SIQUIJOR, April 8 (PIA) -- It used to be just a customary gathering of healers and herbalists from the island and all over Visayas and Mindanao come together in Holy Week to participate in the preparation of medical potions made from a variety of tree barks, roots, herbs, insects, and other ingredients. These are gathered during Fridays of the Lent from the forests, seas, caves and cemeteries. The resulting brews are known to have healing powers. Usual or unusual it may seem, it attracted a nu...
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07Apr2012BOAC, Marinduque, April 7 (PIA) -- Tourists and local folks flocked the streets leading to the Moriones Arena in Boac, Marinduque where they witnessed the traditional Lenten celebration of this year’s Moriones Festival. Morion-costumed folks of Marinduque started to play their roles as the Moriones Festival commenced on Holy Monday at the venue, preceded by a Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Rey Evangelista of the Diocese of Marinduque. Community parade around the town followed, where parti...
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06Apr2012BOAC, Marinduque, April 6 (PIA) -- Morions went around the province for the traditional Visita Iglesia together with religious community and others who want to be part of the pilgrimage or simply the “visit to different churches. The Morions and the community started at with a parade at Boac Poblacion and proceeded to Buenavista, Sta. Cruz and Torrijos. They visited the old churches of Marinduque which has different valued stories and historical accounts. The first stop of the Visita Ig...
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06Apr2012LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, April 6 (PIA) -- The 432nd Agew na Pangasinan (Pangasinan Day) set on April 11 promises to be a day of ‘many firsts’ in the history of Pangasinan language and culture. Provincial Administrator Rafael Baraan said the Agew na Pangasinan is one of the provincial government’s Summer Triple Treat which also includes the Pistay Dayat (Sea Festival) and Palarong Pambansa. “The Pangasinan Day is one way of renewing the Pangasinenses’ commitment to the preservation of...
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05Apr2012CEBU CITY April 5 (PIA) -- A cultural and heritage tour dubbed as ‘Heritage by Dusk’ showcased the rich heritage and culture of Cebu to over 400 delegates of the 45th Annual Convention of the Association of Philippine Medical Colleges (APMC) held at the Cebu Institute of Medicine, F. Ramos St., Cebu City in February this year. According to the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. organizer of the event, ‘Heritage by Dusk’ is a modified concept patterned after RAFI’s ‘Gabii sa Kabilin’...
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05Apr2012Arts has a way of interpreting things, people, even places, but as we observe how Christ suffered and died for our sins, why not re-live the journey once again of the 14 Stations of the Cross through an art exhibit of Kapampangan artists? Dubbed “Puni Keng Telabastagan 2012,” this is a Holy Week Art Exhibit which features three kinds of art forms – a visual art exhibit, installation art, and performance art. Artworks to be featured were created by known Kapampangan artists like Conderlo...
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05Apr2012For more than 10 years now, Angeles City has been reliving the Siete Palabras or the Seven Last Words. Angeles has also been noted on the way it presents the crucifixion which is being organized and held at Barangay Lourdes Northwest, this city. For the second year, Angeles will again be presenting a play, which will feature three persons to be crucified including one who will play the role of Jesus Christ. Special Projects and Program Development Manager of the Angeles City Tourism Office ...
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04Apr2012QUEZON CITY, April 4 (PIA)--Biking in the Philippines will not only be more fun, it will also be more meaningful and memorable if you join the Department of Tourism’s bicycle tour on April 9, Araw ng Kagitingan. The historical tour, dubbed “2B” will memorialize Balara and Bilibid – the two sites where Filipino guerrillas mounted successful military action against Japanese forces. In a news release, the DOT said that the 2B Tour is not a race and will be run at a leisurely pace of 15 to...
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02Apr2012TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, April 2 (PIA) -- Leyte is set to showcase the richness of its culture by sending contingents of two of its best festivals to participate at the Aliwan Festival on April 14 at the CCP complex. Governor Carlos Jericho L. Petilla said the contingents of the Lingganay Festival of Alangalang town and Buyugan Festival of the town of Abuyog have been given financial assistance of P1 million each, by the provincial government of Leyte as they compete in the country’s biggest gat...
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31Mar2012TAGBILARAN CITY, March 31 (PIA) -- ‘Reputana’, a name almost synonymous to handcrafted acoustic guitars in Bohol started in very humble beginnings. From its shop at its house in sitio Tubig-Dako in Manga District, Cornelio Reputana strums an industry that made a name in Bohol’s music circles as a trusted wood worker and guitar maker famous for his dreadnought acoustic guitars. “My father used to vend textiles in Candijay town and his usual resting spot was a guitar maker’s shop. Tha...
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30Mar2012BAGUIO CITY, Mar. 30(PIA) -- Mountain Province will be celebrating its 45th foundation day this April highlighted with the eight staging of ‘Lang-ay’ Festival. Provincial Administrator and former Bontoc, Mt. Province Mayor, Franklin Odsey, in a kapihan media forum here last week is inviting everyone, locals and visitors alike, to come and celebrate with them. According to Odsey, with the foundation day falling on Black Saturday, they consider it as a blessing as aside from showcasi...
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30Mar2012PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan, March 30 (PIA) -- The Philippines’ Tubbataha Reef Natural Marine Park (TRNMP) is this year’s feature of a limited edition series of Oris Swiss-made watch. Oris will create a unique divers' watch dubbed Oris Tubbataha Limited Edition in support of the conservation and protection projects for the TRNMP, a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site. As sponsorship partner, the Tubbataha Management Office (TMO) ...
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29Mar2012TINGLAYAN, Kalinga, March 29(PIA)-- In celebration of its 49th founding anniversary, Mayor Fernando Abay is pushing for the promotion of the “Unoy Festival” not only as one of the prime festivals in the province but as a cultural heritage. According to the mayor, the Unoy Festival should be promoted as the province contribution to the nation’s cultural heritage as it depicts a traditional way of the people which is still being practiced today. The word “unoy” denotes a perspective ...
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29Mar2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, March 29 (PIA) -- The annual crucifixion rites in this province will be observing its 50th anniversary on April 6, Good Friday. The event dubbed “Maleldo” will be held at the villages of San Pedro Cutud, Sta. Lucia and San Juan where 40,000 to 50,000 foreign and local nationalities will attend to witness the re-enactment of Christ’s crucifixion,” said Marnie Castro, vice chairperson of the Maleldo 2012 committee. According to Castro, starting at 2 p.m.,...
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29Mar2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, March 29 (PIA) -- The Angeles Univeristy Foundation (AUF) has recognized the talents of two world-renowned chefs. Emelita Galang was given the recognition for Culinary Education and Claude Tayag for Culinary Arts and Literature during the First Golden Toque Awards of AUF which is in line with the celebration of 50th founding anniversary of the university. Galang, who owns the Emelita W. Galang Culinary Arts Studio is the first culinary school in North Luzon with over 30...
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28Mar2012RIZAL, Kalinga, Mar. 28 (PIA) -- This municipality celebrated its 2012 Pinikpikan Festival with the theme “Pagtalinaeden ti panagkaykaysa, talna ken kappia, dur-as manamnama” (Sustain unity, peace and order to ensure progress) last Saturday March 24, 2012. In their messages, officials commended the continuous advancement of the municipality made possible with the cooperation of the people and the government. Kalinga Governor Jocel Baac urged the people to maintain their being united and la...
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27Mar2012TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan, March 27 (PIA) -- Ten environment photographers opened an exhibit today at the Main Gallery of the Museum building of the Provincial Capitol here as a tribute to the late Richard “ Chang” Guzman, a multi-awarded Cagayano artist. Called "Cagayano: Art of Darkness Cave Photography" the exhibit captured the archaeological richness of the province through images of caves and it also recognizes the efforts of Guzman, acknowledged as the father of Cave Photography in Cag...
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27Mar2012BANAUE, Ifugao, Mar 27 (PIA) -- Education Secretary Armin Luistro recently inaugurated the Ifugao Indigenous School at the Gohang National High School here. It coincided with the latter’s 18th commencement exercises. Dubbed as Special Secondary School for the Conservation of the Ifugao Rice Terraces (SSSCIRT), it is piloted at the Gohang National High School in support to the policy framework of DepEd for indigenous peoples’ education. Luistro said that since indigenous peoples have specia...
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25Mar2012PAGADIAN CITY, March 25 (PIA) -- The city of Pagadian will be marking a big milestone in its political history as it celebrates the 75th founding anniversary dubbed as the “Diamond Jubilee Celebration” on March 26 with the theme “Pagadian at 75: Building a Better Relationship, a Better Community, and a Better Future.” Different activities have been lined up for the grand celebration. To start the week-long festivities, a grand civic-military parade will be held Monday, March 26 at 8...
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25Mar2012If you’re into arts and culture, add the fact that you’re a Kapampangan or interested to know more about Pampangos, then you have to visit the Museum of Kapampangan Arts. The said museum is a collection of the National Artist Vicente “Mang Enteng” Manansala's works and memorabilia which have been preserved by the Center for Kapampanga Studies (CKS) and the family of Mang Enteng all throughout the years. In the Museum's Gallery Room I, you will see Mang Enteng’s sketchbooks which wo...
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24Mar2012QUEZON CITY, March 24 (PIA) -- A horde of tourists is expected to flock the province of Marinduque this Lenten season. Governor Carmencita Reyes said, because of Marinduque’s Moriones Festival, the province has become the pilgrim province of the country during the Lenten Season. “The city is very busy nowadays because we can say that all eyes will be in Marinduque this Holy Week,” Reyes said at the 39th Mimaropa Regional Development Council (RDC) Meeting recently at the NIA building, EDS...
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22Mar2012IGUIG, Cagayan, March 22 (PIA) -- Thousands of catholic believers crowd at Calvary Hills here yesterday afternoon, to experience healing power of the Almighty through Fr. Fernando Suarez, a known healing priest in the country and abroad. Families and individuals from all over Cagayan valley region as well as Kalinga and Apayao went down here to attend the healing mass, the first visit of Fr. Suarez. “The healing power of God is unlimited only if you believe in Him. Praise Him of his holi...
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22Mar2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, March 22 (PIA) -- The Holy Angel University (HAU) will open today its own museum, which is dedicated to preserve and promote local heritage. The launch of the Kapampangan Arts Museum, according to the Center for Kapampangan Studies of the Holy Angel University, is in line with the celebration of the center’s 10th anniversary which will feature sketches and memorabilia collection of Kapampangan National Artist for Visual Arts in 1982 Vicente “Enteng&rd...
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22Mar2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, March 22 (PIA) -- A world-renowned Filipina pianist will be performing in Holy Angel University (HAU) in a concert today. Cecile Licad, whom the New York Times described as “a combination of fragile grace and fiery power,” will perform for the first time in this province in a concert dubbed, “An Evening with Chopin and Liszt.” Her performance is a tribute to her fellow Kapampangans as her father is a native of Porac town. ...
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22Mar2012MAMBAJAO, CAMIGUIN, March 22 (PIA) -- Known to many for its spectacular wonders, be it in the array of finest foods, fruits, waters and people, Camiguin is but a tourist perfect destination. The island receives flock of local and foreign tourist all year round and the Lenten season is among its peak period of the year, every March or April. After more than 30 years, “Panaad in Camiguin” still continues to draw huge numbers of pilgrims and tourist alike. It ...
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22Mar2012ILOILO CITY, March 22 (PIA) – The upland municipalities of Alimodian, Leon, Maasin and Cabatuan in Iloilo have identified tourism sites that are potentials for visits, during a recent tourism mapping activity. These upland municipalities are within the Tigum-Aganan watershed area, groomed for its ecotourism potentials. In a report from the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI) which assists the municipalities, there were 16 potential sites initially identified. In Alimo...
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21Mar2012Alimango Festival, a celebration that culminates during the Araw ng Lala on March 22 of every year, is in line with the thrust of National Leadership and the Department of Tourism vision to promote and enhance community-based development and sustainable tourism. What is envisioned therein is a community-based and eco-oriented agricultural tourism which center the display, sale, and promotion of Alimango-specie of crustacean, which abundantly abounds in the seven coastal barangays of Lal...
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21Mar2012ROSARIO, Cavite, March 21 (PIA) -- Provincial and local officials once again reaffirmed Cavite’s role in Philippine history when they observed two of the most important events that led to the attainment of our freedom. The 115th Anniversary of Tejeros Convention and the Founding of the Philippine Army was celebrated at Casa Hacienda, Tejeros Convention on March 16. The theme for this year celebration was Hukbong Katihan: “Naglilingkod sa Mamamayan, P...
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20Mar2012OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, March 20 (PIA) -- The provincial government of Misamis Occidental is positive that this year’s Pas’ungko Festival in November will go on despite the reduction of its budget for 2012. This is the optimistic view of Governor Herminia M. Ramiro who said all the members of the Provincial Tourism Council composed of the tourism officers of the local government units (LGUs) of the province, including those of its three cities have started to mee...
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20Mar2012TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, March 20 -- About 189 young musicians were added to the the RTU Musical Instruments Workshop, the brainchild project of Mayor Rey T. Uy that trains children how to play different types of musical instruments. The latest addition—collectively referred to as the 25th batch—staged their recital on March 18, 2012 at the City’s Trade and Cultural Center Pavilion. Cegged Luh B. Eugenio, a second-grader from Imelda Elementary School,...
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19Mar2012With the start of the Holy Week a week from now, the Department of Tourism (DOT) Regions 1,2,3 and Cordillera came up with a suggested four-day guided tour into the famed churches of Northern Luzon that is religiously, culturally and historically enriching. DAY ONE From Metro Manila, take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and exit via Tabang to proceed to Malolos, Bulacan for a visit to the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish or more popularly known as the Barasoain Church. Founde...
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19Mar2012LAOAG CITY, March 19 (PIA) -- The National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the country’s prime agency for arts and culture and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Committee on Culture and Information (Asean-Coci) will hold a forum on the plight of traditional weavers in Asean and China from March 20-23 at the Plaza del Norte this city. Traditional weavers, traditional weaving scholars and delegates from the Asean member-states, China and the Asean secretariat a...
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19Mar2012MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon, March 19 (PIA) -- Teeming with lush foliage, tall pine trees, and cool breeze, Kaamulan Tree Park is one perfect place to go to commune with nature. Located at the rear side of Bukidnon Provincial Capitol in Malaybalay City, the park is perched on rolling hills with other natural resources. Its proximity to the main city makes it an ideal place for trail hiking, sightseeing, and nature trekking. Apportioned into various zones, this 500-hectare tree pa...
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19Mar2012Located in Barangay Libertad Bajo, Sinacaban town, Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park (MOAP), with its mangrove trees around, had become a favorite to both government agencies and non-government organizations for them to hold their seminars and other team-building activities. It is also the gateway to the so-called Dolphin Island that serves as a rehabilitation center for dolphins which seek refuge in the coastal areas after being hurt by fishermen who wanted to hunt them. In f...
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18Mar2012TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, March 18 (PIA) – A young Boholana has proven that she can carve a name for herself through her own efforts, and without relying on her political roots. Robie del Rosario Cajes, 23 third daughter of Trinidad mayor Roberto Cajes (and former mayor Judith) was the first Filipino to be conferred the Best Student Thesis Award by the International Academy for Film and Television for her short film Alkansiya. “Alkansiya” is...
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17Mar2012BOHOL, March 18 (PIA) -- Italian marine biologist and veterinarian Dr. Alessandro Ponzo revealed that Bohol is host to 18 of the 28 species of dolphins and whales that are found in the country. Ponzo is president of Physalus, a non-government organization working with communities in the protection and conservation of whales and dolphins, and has been gathering data on whales and other large marine vertebrates in the Bohol seas. He has named six dolphins and 12 whale sp...
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17Mar2012DAVAO CITY, March 17 (PIA) -- Gaining 64% of visitor traffic from Davao to the Island Garden City of Samal last year following the launch of “Visit Samal” campaign, this year the local government of the island and the Department of Tourism (DOT) relaunched the said campaign to further position the island as the island summer capital of Davao region. “Visit Samal” campaign is a marketing strategy conceptualized by the DOT and the local tourism players to boost tou...
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16Mar2012SORSOGON CITY, March 16 (PIA) -- After a bout with paralysis due to a stroke, Reynaldo “Tootsie” Jamoralin died past 4:00 p.m. of March 12, 2012 at the age of 66. Founder and President of the Sorsogon Arts Council (SAC), he is considered as one of Sorsogon’s “Provincial” artists. His body lies in state at their residence in Sorsogon City. Jamoralin was the editor and writer of the two editions of the book ‘Tracing: from S...
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16Mar2012QUEZON CITY, March 16 (PIA) -- After the first phase of nomination, seven cities of the country made it to the first phase of the prestigious New7Wonder Cities search. Moving on to the qualification phase, which runs March 7 to November 23, 2012 are the cities of Vigan, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod and Parañaque. Parañaque City Mayor Jun Bernabe is honored that Philippine cities continue to be recognized and gain renown in international circles.&...
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14Mar2012MANILA, Mar 14 -- The Government Service Insurance System had announced that all its art works including Juan Luna's 'Parisian Life,' will have a new home at the National Museum within the second semester this year, after the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the GSIS and the National Museum of the Philippines. Under the agreement, the GSIS will transfer the management of the GSIS collection to the National Museum "to preserve, maintain, secure and promote the c...
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14Mar2012SAN MANUEL, Pangasinan, Mar. 14 (PIA) -- The San Roque Power Corporation unveiled here today a marker honoring former President Fidel Valdez Ramos in appreciation of his political will in implementing the San Roque Multi-Purpose (SRMP) project during his term as Chief Executive. Ramos, considered as the godfather of the SRMP, was instrumental in the realization of the project. It was on May 2, 1997 when he led the groundbreaking ceremonies that kicked off the constru...
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13Mar2012Orquidia, one of the earliest beach resorts in the town of Santa Ana, was established in 2006 under its former name Estela Polaris Resort. Seated on a two-hectare lot just a few meters away from the national highway, a tourist may suspect that a landscape guru has transformed a once barren land into a beautiful work of art. Orquidia is one of the 17-member Santa Ana Hotel Accomodation Resorts and Restaurants Association organized last year to support the tourism industry programs of the...
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13Mar2012MAMBAJAO, CAMIGUIN, March 13 (PIA) -- Camiguin Governor Jurdin Jesus M. Romualdo issued an executive order dated March 2, mandating the creation of a steering and working committees to oversee the preparations of the “Panaad Pilgrimage 2012." All key areas such as ports, town centers, and sacred places where devotees congregate will hold information counters to be manned by the members of the local disaster risk and reduction management council, barangay council, and the tour...
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12Mar2012PAGADIAN CITY, Mar. 12 (PIA) -- Zamboanga Peninsula artists bagged the Grand Prize in the Philippine Visual Arts Festival-National Commission for Culture and the Arts (PVAF-NCCA) Interactive Mural Painting national level competition held in Angono, Rizal on February 17-21, 2012. The event was the first nationwide gathering of artists in Angono, Rizal, the Art Capital of the Philippines hosted by Master Nemesio Miranda, renowned national artist. Rev. Jerome Castillo, a pastor of...
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12Mar2012BANAUE, Ifugao, Mar. 12 (PIA) - - Senator Loren Legarda is set to adopt the Bangaan village in this town in a bid to help in the restoration of the century- old Ifugao Rice Terraces. Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Climate Change and Committee on Cultural Communities, informed of her plan after an ocular inspection of the Bangaan cluster of the Rice Terraces last week. The Senator said she will fund the repair of four destroyed Ifugao native ho...
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12Mar2012BACOLOD CITY, March 12 (PIA6) -- This city, known as the City of Smiles, is vying for a slot in the New Seven Wonder Cities of the World. Bacolod City snagged one of the seven slots allotted for Philippine cities to compete with other cities in the world. There are 303 cities vying for the Top 77 which will be serially pruned down to 28, 21, 14 (finalists) and then to the final 7, via internet and text message voting. Bacolod City Mayor and Lawyer Evelio Leonardia...
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10Mar2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, March 10 (PIA) -- Angeleños recently celebrated “Leguan: Celebrating the Beauty of Kapampangan Folk Arts and Culture,” an annual arts event held at Kalye Lakandula in this city. Head of Kalye Lakandula Bong Punzalan said, “the celebration does not merely speaks for beauty alone – the physical appearance, but, the beauty that is in relation with the culture and arts, and values.” The program consisted of Visual A...
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09Mar2012QUEZON CITY, March 9 (PIA) -- Two church bells considered as a Philippine-American war artifact were turned over today to the National Museum. Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario turned over to Director Jeremy Burns of the National Muesum the two church bells reportedly taken from Meycauyan Church in Bulacan in 1899. A news release from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said that on October 8, 2011, Sisters of Mercy Midwest Community USA president...
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09Mar2012OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental, March 9 (PIA) -- The provincial capitol of Misamis Occidental will remain to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the country. This assurance was given by Governor Herminia M. Ramiro to the members of the Advisory Council for National Committee on Monuments and Sites of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) who came to the city recently. Headed by Architect Dominic Calicia, the said group purposely came to the city to take a lo...
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09Mar2012SAN JOSE,Antique March 9 (PIA6) -- Known as the world's biggest flower, Rafflesia speciosa was confirmed to be found in the mountain ranges of the municipality of Barbaza. Its existence was confirmed and validated last February 23, 2012 by Forester Amadona Rana, PAWCZMS coordinator of CENRO, Culasi together with Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Emerson Ogatis of the town of Barbaza, Antique who went up the mountains of the town to verify the report receive...
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09Mar2012This is a story of an Aeta mother who speaks from a heart seasoned by true-to-life experiences, dreams and desires for her family and the community. This woman, Marita Mondejar, an Aeta and a mother with five children, lives within the Agta community at Barangay Agugaddan, Penablanca, Cagayan. She’s not just an ordinary member of the Aeta community, she is also the most respected woman in the group as she was a former first lady, a successor chieftain, and now a vice-chieftain. &...
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07Mar2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, March 7 (PIA) -- The Holy Angel University (HAU) is set to honor two people who have greatly contributed to the history and culture of the province in the prestigious cultural awards given by HAU annually. The recipients of the said award are Brillante Mendoza, a world-class director, who rose to fame because of his film “Kinatay,” and Dr. John Larkin, an American historian who had written a 1972 book, “The Pampangans: Colonial Society in a Phil...
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07Mar2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, March 7 (PIA) – The Holy Angel University (HAU) will honor five individuals for their contributions in the preservation and enrichment of Kapampangan culture and tradition. Cannes-winning filmmaker Brillante Mendoza and State University of New York history professor John Alan Larkin will receive the Juan D. Nepomuceno Cultural Award for Arts and Culture and Research and Scholarship respectively for bringing the Kapampangan heritage into the international fi...
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07Mar2012Malolos in Bulacan is so much part of the country’s colored past as many of the patriots and heroes of our history has links to this bustling city of the present. Citing all the historical events that took place in Malolos, especially those with reference to the short-lived first Philippine Republic can very well fill a sizeable book. Names such as General Emilio Aguinaldo, Pedro A. Paterno, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, Marcelo H. del Pilar, Pio del Pilar, Gregorio del Pilar, Apolinario Mab...
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07Mar2012CITY OF MALOLOS, Bulacan, March 7 (PIA) -- "Bumuo ng isang Buhay, Masigla, Mapagmahal, Mapagtiwala at Napapanahong Sambayanan ng Diyos." Bulakenyos are now animated with the upcoming 50th anniversary of the Diocese of Malolos on March 10 which will be held at the Basilica Minore of the Immaculate Concepcion waving this jubilee theme to every Catholic soul: to build an alive, spirited, loving, faithful and timely society of God. The golden celebration will be culminated after ...
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07Mar2012DUMAGUETE CITY, March 7 (PIA) -- A former high-ranking official of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has organized a stamp exhibit to inspire competence and confidence among women in Dumaguete City. Former NTC Deputy Commissioner Atty. Kathleen Heceta is the philatelist responsible for the current exhibit at Silliman University’s (SU) Robert B. and Metta J. Library where over 700 commemorative and special edition stamps from 60 countries are displayed. &nbs...
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07Mar2012DAVAO CITY, Mar. 7 (PIA) -- Four caves in Kapalong, Davao del Norte were recently identified and assessed as priority caves by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-XI (DENR-XI) and the Davao Speleological and Conservation Society (DSpeCS). These caves are the Otso, Gitgitan, Sayaw and Underground Caves. During the cave assessments done last February 1 to 3 the following characteristics were considered: length, height and width of the caves as well as i...
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06Mar2012"A safe and quiet place for healing and wellness, aside from the usual sand, sun, sea, and surf attractions." This is how tourists should see Siquijor, not as the island of sorcerers and witches as folk stories wanted it to appear, but as the island of divine beauty with spectacular views and friendly people. One article written by an island visitor on mysiquijor.com reads, "Some that have visited the island say that Siquijor is more than an island paradise. It...
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06Mar2012LUBUAGAN, Kalinga, Mar. 6 (PIA) -- “Celebrating the Laga Festival is also paying tribute to our women-weavers who made the Kalinga Ethnic Weave a global fashion choice and model suit because of its natural and intricate weave,” thus said Mayor Johnny Dickpus of this municipality. Display of the innovative design and artistic woven products of this municipality took center stage during the two-day Laga(weave) Festival from March 5-6 this year. &n...
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05Mar2012BAUKO, Mt. Province, Mar. 5 (PIA) -- This municipality is all set for this year’s celebration of its Begnas di Bauko on March 8 – 10. With the theme “Enhancing Cultural Heritage: A Strategy Towards Pro-Poor Human Development and socio-economic Progress,” the Baukenians will be showcasing their rich culture and traditions handed to them by their ancestors. 'Begna's is a festival of prayer and merriment made before or after palay and other agric...
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05Mar2012QUEZON CITY, March 5 (PIA) -- The Tandang Sora Shrine in Quezon City has been declared a national shrine by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP). With the NHCP declaration, QC now boasts of two national historical shrines, the other, being the Quezon Memorial Shrine, where the remains of former President Manuel L. Quezon, are entombed. The declaration of Tandang Sora’s resting place at Banlat Road as a national shrine was in support...
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04Mar2012In 1763, following the death of revolutionist Diego Silang, who fought for the liberation of Ilocos from Spanish rule, his wife Gabriela came to fore and continued the fallen leader’s fight to freedom. Prior to Diego’s assassination, Gabriela became one of his closest advisors, whenever the troops battle, Gabriela always went with them to give support and help to the battle, a major figure in her husband's collaboration with the British and the brief expulsion of Spanish off...
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03Mar2012GENERAL SANTOS CITY, March 3 (PIA) -- It’s more fun sa Kalilangan! This is people’s simple and plain expression of joy for this year’s festival of the people, the “Kalilangan Festival” which gathers and connects people. The 16th Kalilangan Festival and the 73rd Foundation Anniversary celebration of General Santos City ended Monday (Feb 27) with a even as the day was also declared special holiday for the Generals (people of GenSan) pursuant to Proclam...
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02Mar2012TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, Mar. 2 (PIA) -- The 11th Musikahan sa Tagum Festival 2012 made a mark in history anew for its successful six-day run, converging the country’s best musical groups and artists from February 21-26, 2012. Considered to be the longest-running and all-inclusive music festival in the Philippines, the Musikahan 2012 ended in a perfect note in a colorful ceremony held at the Atrium of the new City Hall of Tagum - the main venue of this year’s festiv...
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02Mar2012ILOILO CITY, March 2 (PIA6) -- The three-day “America in 3D” road show of the U.S. Embassy in Iloilo which formally opened March 2 at SM City-Iloilo is part of the effort to prove the close ties that bind the United States and the Philippines, according to U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Leslie Bassett. In her message, Bassett said the closeness of relationship between the Americans and Filipinos is founded on the friendship with one another. The statement of the U....
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01Mar2012BACOLOD CITY, March 1 (PIA) -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts conferred to Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia the Ani ng Dangal (Harvest of Honors) Award in appreciation of the city government’s support during the celebration of the National Arts Month. Leonardia received the award at the Heroes Hall in Malacañang Palace from the NCCA chaired by Professor Felipe De Leon, Jr. The “Ani ng Dangal” (Harvest of Honors) awarding cer...
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29Feb2012ZAMBOANGA CITY, Feb. 29 (PIA 9) - - As the 2012 Zamboanga International Film Festival drew to a close, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the city government honored participating filmmakers Monday evening. FDCP Chairman Briccio Santos expressed gratitude to the people of Zamboanga for the overwhelming success of the first-ever international film festival held in the city. The just-concluded festival, which formed part of the celebration of the city’s 75th D...
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29Feb2012DAET, Camarines Norte, Peb 29 (PIA) -- Isinagawa kahapon ang talakayan o lecture forum sa sekondarya na pribado at pampublikong paaralan dito kaugnay sa paggunita ng ika-152 anibersaryo ng kapanganakan ng bayaning si Gen. Vicente R. Lukban ng lalawigan. Isinalaysay ni Museum Curator I Abel C. Icatlo ng Museum Archives and Shrine Curation Division ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ang talambuhay ng naturang bayani; ayon sa kanya, si Gen. Lukban noong panahon ...
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29Feb2012ILOILO CITY, Feb. 29 (PIA6) -- U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Leslie Bassett will join sailors from the USS Chafee, volunteers from the 1Meal program and local residents in painting school classrooms at the Esteban Juntado Sr. Memorial Elementary School in Barangay Calumpang, Molo in this city on March 3. The school painting project is part of the “America in 3D” road show of the U.S. Embassy slated March 2-4 here which will focus on U.S. Diplomacy, Development and Defense a...
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29Feb2012ZAMBOANGA CITY, Feb. 29 (PIA) -- Zamboangueño renowned artist Rameer Tawasil mounted a solo art exhibit, February capping the highly charged Dia de Zamboanga activities. Organized by the city government and the Council for Culture, Arts and History of Zamboanga City (CCAHZC), the event was graced by no less than by Spanish Ambassador Jorge Domecq and his lady Rosa Rufino de Domecq and other Spanish Embassy officials. Mayor Celso Lobregat and Ambassadoro Domecq led the ri...
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29Feb2012ZAMBOANGA CITY, Feb. 29 (PIA) - - Spanish Ambassador to the Philippines Jorge Domecq, who came here to keynote the 75th Dia de la Ciudad de Zamboanga last Sunday, assured that the Spanish government is committed to help the city government in its effort to preserve the city’s Spanish derivative language called Chabacano. “We have to do all we can. The Spanish government has decided to help preserve the Chabacano, which I think is a unique language, a very rich language which...
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29Feb2012NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Feb. 29 (PIA6) -- A group of Japanese toured Silay City as part of the “Lagaw Silay” program. “Lagaw Silay” (lagaw means to stroll) is a program of the City Government of Silay endorsed by the Department of Tourism to promote cultural heritage, ecotourism and food trips in the city, according to Silay City Mayor Jose Montelibano. The group is made up of members of the Chickyu-no Arukikata International Volunteer Tour. T...
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28Feb2012TAGBILARAN CITY, February 28 (PIA) -- Two Bohol theater groups—the Antequera and Punta Cruz Cultural Collectives—were invited to perform in Silliman University in Dumaguete City for the theater fest on February 27. Antequera Cultural Collective will stage a portion of the musical play ‘Abatan ni Tamblot’ while Punta Cruz Maribojoc Cutural Collective will perform the ‘Tawag sa Bantayan’. Bohol theater artisti...
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28Feb2012TABUK CITY, Kalinga, Feb. 28(PIA) -- Synchronized steps, showmanship and fusion of ethnic choreography brought Tabuk City cultural performers just few points to the championship as it landed first runner-up in the cultural street dancing and cultural field demonstration competition in the 2012 Panagbenga Festival in Baguio City over the weekend. Trainor and choreographer of the group Richard Falgui said although it was the first time that the group joined in the ...
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26Feb2012BALER, Aurora, March 2 (PIA) -- An “Artists Village” was recently unveiled in this town to showcase various artifacts, artworks, and antiques made by artists all over the Philippines. It is located within the vicinity of the Dicasalarin Cove, which is one of the tourist attractions in Baler. According to Senator Edgardo Angara, “This village embraces artists from the widest sweep of creative disciplines, initially painters, sculptors, architects, landscape, archi...
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26Feb2012TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Feb 26 (PIA) -- The Leyte-Samar Heritage Society, Inc. is set to conduct a forum as “Heritage and Progress” on March 1-2, 2012 at Hotel Alejandro in Tacloban City. Msgr. Ramon Aguilos, chairman and lead convenor, said that the forum aims to enhance heritage awareness by providing an overview of the legal aspects on cultural heritage in the Philippines and the application of the principal provisions to Eastern Visayas. The Forum which is b...
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26Feb2012Last February 19, the province of Aurora commemorated the 124th birth anniversary of its heroine and namesake, Doῆa Aurora Aragon-Quezon, wife of Philippine Commonwealth President Manuel Quezon and a person highly regarded as one of the early Filipino women who faced crossroads in life, but prevailed her love for country. Doῆa Aurora had been a real partner of President Quezon during his time. As the First Lady, she involved herself generously in humanitarian activities, going place...
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25Feb2012TAGUM CITY, Feb 25 -- It was their angelic voices that left an indelible mark in the audience and their twin victory has etched a mark in the history of Musikahan sa Tagum Festival. Cheers erupted in the New City Hall Atrium as Sta. Mesa, Manila’s Coro Obcento got twin gold-victories in the folk/traditional and sacred music categories of the Himig Handog Chorale Competition held February 24, 2012. Competing in the Champions Category, the group bested other prize-w...
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25Feb2012BANAUE, Ifugao, Feb. 25 (PIA)--The National Mapping and Resource Information Agency (NAMRIA) presented Friday the maps showing the delineation of the core and buffer zones of the ‘Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras, UNESCO World Heritage Site’ to the stakeholders coming from the heritage sites and buffer municipalities at the Banaue Hotel here. Dr. Virginia Miralao, Secretary General of UNESCO National Commission of the Philippi...
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25Feb2012TACLOBAN CITY, Feb. 25 (PIA) -- Teachers in the island province of Biliran is keeping the memories of EDSA People Power Revolution alive in the minds and hearts of their students. Dr. Roberto Pabilada, Education Supervisor in Social Studies of Department of Education-Biliran in an interview said teachers have integrated discussions of the relevance of the non-violent protest against a dictatorship 26 years ago among their stude...
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24Feb2012ILOILO CITY, Feb. 24 (PIA6) -- Department of Education-Iloilo city division superintendent Dr Nelly Valerio instructed district supervisors here to have teachers integrate the spirit of the bloodless revolution in lesson plans as the country celebrates the 26th year anniversary of the EDSA People Power. EDSA People Power Revolution took place 26 years ago when today’s students in the elementary and high schools were not even born yet. The four day event happened on F...
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24Feb2012On Saturday, February 25, 2012, the country will commemorate the 26th year anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution. Such commemoration of a milestone in Philippine history once again brings in the symbolic ‘yellow ribbon.’ Browsing back to history in this world of high technology and World Wide Web (Internet), the use of yellow ribbon dates back to 79 AD. In the United States military, the symbol of the yellow ribbon was used in a popular marching song. T...
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24Feb2012SILAY CITY, Neg. Occ., Feb. 24 (PIA6) -- Silay City is a recipient of "Ani ng Dangal Awards" 2012 which will be given by President Benigno Simeon Aquino, through Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, a press release from Silay City said. The award will be received by Silay City Mayor Jose L. Montelibano during the Ani ng Sining closing ceremony at the Heroes Hall, Malacañang Palace on February 28. This is sponsored by the National Commission for Culture and the ...
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24Feb2012DAVAO CITY, Feb. 24 (PIA) -- Greening will take center stage in this year’s celebration of Bulawan Festival as some 500,000 trees will simultaneously be planted all over the province of Compostela Valley. Guesting in Kapihan sa PIA (Philippine Information Agency), Compostela Valley Board Member Augusto Blanco Jr. shared that this year’s Bulawan Festival focuses on envir...
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23Feb2012BOAC, Marinduque, February 23 (PIA) – Marinduque was filled with music and colors as the province celebrated its 92nd Founding Anniversary last February 21. People went to the streets waving small flags of different colors during the motorcade of officials and guests in the morning, led by Gov. Carmencita O. Reyes. There was also a grand parade of floats in the afternoon, which depicted the history of Marinduque and its festivals, under the accompaniment of the kalutang (native mu...
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23Feb2012TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, Feb. 23 (PIA) -- Rondalla groups from Tagum City and Panabo City were declared grand winners in the Battle of Champions for “Rondal-Awit Competition” of the Musikahan sa Tagum 2012 Festival held at the iconic city hall of Tagum yesterday (Feb. 22). The Tagum City National Comprehensive High School (TCNCHS) Rondalla under the baton of Lorna Mendoza and trainer of the group regained the top prize for the Rondal-Awit’s Open/Adult Category. ...
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23Feb2012DAVAO CITY, Feb. 23 -- Music notes run the same around the world, and so music becomes a universal language. It brings a feeling of harmony to people regardless of color and race. It is this universal rhythm of music that pushes the Tagum City Tourism Council and the City government of Tagum to continue holding the Musikahan sa Tagum Festival which now runs for 11 years. This year’s Musikahan sa Tagum Festival seeks global audience as it banners the them...
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22Feb2012QUEZON CITY, Feb. 22 (PIA) -- The month of August has been declared as History Month to enable Filipinos to properly observe and reflect on the major events in the nation’s history. President Benigno Aquino III issued Proclamation No. 339 declaring August as History Month instead of September 15 to 21 as declared before thru Proclamation 1304 in 1974. Based on the Proclamation there is a need to transfer the observance of History Week from September 15 to 21 to the whole ...
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22Feb2012As summer is fast approaching, a recommended historical and tourism adventure is a visit to the former Philippine Refugee Processing Center (PRPC) in Morong, Bataan, now the Bataan Technology Park. The PRPC was home to some 40,000 Vietnamese and Laotian refugees from 1980 to 1994 while waiting for the processing of their papers for their country of destination. The 365-hectare Bataan Technology Park is the main zone of the Morong Special Economic Zone, now a tourism, leisure an...
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22Feb2012BANGUED, Abra, Feb. 22 (PIA) -- “We reminisce, we serve, we lead” . This is the theme of the ongoing Bangued town fiesta highlighted by the “Miki Festival” that showcases ‘miki’, the town's indigenous noodles that had survived the times. The Miki Festival, now on its second year, serves as a venue to promote the livelihood of the people by showcasing the fo...
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22Feb2012The Philippines is home to roughly 85 million Filipinos. Of this number, 84 percent are literate. The blind population is 467,000 while the deaf is estimated at 12 million, according to Paul Lewis study in 2009. With the archipelagic situation of the country composed of 7,000 islands, it is no wonder that the Philippines has different languages. In Paul Lewis’s study on Ethnologue: Languages of the World, the Philippines has 175 listed individual languages. Of these, 171 are livin...
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22Feb2012TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, Feb. 22 (PIA) -- The 11th year of the Musikahan sa Tagum Festival formally opened yesterday (February 21) in a colorful ceremony that elicited excitement from people who flocked to the iconic new City Hall of Tagum to witness the grandest music festival in Mindanao. As Tagumenos witnessed grand musical performances, global audience were also serenaded through live streaming in the worldwide web, courtesy of the information technology studen...
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21Feb2012Located at the left side of the provincial capitol, the place used to be one of the sites of the annual trade fair during the week-long celebration of the province’s founding anniversary in May. But there’s more of its purpose rather than a mere trade fair site that generated a huge income during the festivities. In fact, it is more precious than the wealth it can provide to the provincial government as it now serves as the place of “Ammungan”, a Gaddang term tha...
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21Feb2012DAVAO CITY Feb. 21 (PIA) -- Known Filipino artist and chef Claude Tayag with wife Mary Ann introduced their newest book “Linamnam: Eating One’s Way Around the Philippines” to Dabawenyos Thursday (February 16) after going around the country and trying out different cuisines in each region. Following the success of Bale Dutung, the home and restaurant built by the couple to showcase Claude’s culinary expertise especially in sumptuous Pampango dishes, Cl...
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21Feb2012MANILA, February 21 (PIA) -- The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) lauded the upcoming canonization of the next Filipino Saint, Blessed Pedro Calungsod on October 21, 2012 following the approval of Pope Benedict XVI. Pope Benedict XVI made the announcement through Angelo Cardinal Amato, prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, at the St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. In a release, CBCP president Archbishop Jose Pa...
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21Feb2012CITY OF MALOLOS, Bulacan, Feb. 21 (PIA) -- The country will once more relive the “girl power” of Filipinas during the Spanish rule as the 123rd anniversary of the Letter of Rizal to the Women of Malolos will be celebrated tomorrow at Casa Real here. A wreath-laying ceremony will be held in front of the monument of Jose Rizal and in the historical marker of the 20 courageous Malolenyas. An exhibit will also be opened to the public. Expected to grace the events are Di...
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20Feb2012QUEZON CITY, February 20 (PIA) -- As the whole country celebrates with the recent declaration of Puerto Princesa’s Underground River as one of the New7 Wonders of Nature, Filipinos will have something good to look forward to as 17 cities were recently included in Phase One of the New7Wonders of Cities. The New7Wonder Cities search is the third campaign organized by New7Wonders, following the man-made New7Wonders of the World and the New7...
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20Feb2012VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur, Feb. 20 (PIA) -- The yearly Kannawidan Ylocos Festival of Ilocos Sur showcases the spirit of the Ilocano Child. Watching the children from the mountainous towns of Ilocos Sur perform their ‘tribal rites’ and dances in their tribal costume called “baag” (a woven cloth worn over their undies), on bare foot under the midday sun strips me of vanity and pride. And propels me to that place where everything is pure,...
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20Feb2012VIGAN CITY, Feb. 20 (PIA) -- Ilocos students and performers from Manila re – enacted the martyrdom of Reverend Father Jose A. Burgos during the observance of its 140th death anniversary in Burgos, Ilocos Sur last Friday. Mayor Riolita Balbalan and Ilocos Sur’s Vice Governor Deogracias Victor Savellano led the local residents in watching the presentation in honor of Fr. Burgos and the two priests: Jacinto Zamora and Mariano Gómez , who were garroted in the middle of B...
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20Feb2012LAOAG CITY, Feb. 20 (PIA) -- Birdwatchers, photographers and tourists are having a grand time at the Paoay Lake National Park in Ilocos Norte as birds are flocking at the area at this time of the year. And to make sure that these migratory birds are unharmed, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte has intensified its campaign to protect these birds. Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Loida Valenzuela said their office is regularly keeping watch on the birds to make sure they are ...
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20Feb2012VIGAN CITY, Feb. 20 (PIA) -- The Kannawidan Ylocos Festival on January 29 to February 5, 2012 drew local and foreign tourists as more entertaining events had been included in the celebrations. Now on its 5th year, the Kannawidan Ylocos Festival had already established its identity as the prime festival of the province. The festival was launched in 2008 under the leadership of then Governor Deogracias Victor B. Savellano to commemorate the 190th foundation day of Ilocos Sur as separate provinc...
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19Feb2012With the lingering need to get away from it all, there is a place in the province of Leyte where Juan and his family can commune with nature. Such place is “Kalanggaman,” an island jeweled with ivory white sands, crystal clear waters with mixed aqua marine and blue colors that blend well with the palm trees in the place. Kalanggaman is approximately 12 kilometers from the town proper of Palompon, Leyte and located close to the province of Cebu. With a...
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18Feb2012ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal, February 18 (PIA) -- In celebration of the nation’s EDSA Revolution victory and National Arts Month, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Committee on Visual Arts is staging the handover ceremony of “The Human Cordon,” a 24” x 30” oil on canvas work which depicts a Filipino family in ‘People Power’ protest. The painting served as the basis for a special postcard which was issued by Philippin...
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18Feb2012ILIGAN, Lanao del Norte, Feb. 18 (PIA) -- Iligan city is drumming its celebration of the National Arts Month in Iligan (NAMCI), this month, with the theme, “One HeART for Iligan.” Led by the Committee on History, Culture and the Arts of the city council here, the celebration started with a painting activity dubbed as Heart for Sendong Survivors last February 12 performed by Tinta Artists of Iligan and Halong Kulay. City Council...
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17Feb2012“Without hesitation, we could say that ‘suman sa Clarin’ is our culture, our future!” Such claim is made by the suman makers here, who said suman making has been their means of livelihood and has been synonymous to the place through time, making suman as one of the top 10 most popular “pasalubong ng bayan” throughout the Philippines. Suman has been identified as the local government unit’s (LGU) One-Town, One-Product (OTOP), and part of...
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17Feb2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, Feb. 17 (PIA) -- Dedicated to preserve and promote local heritage, the Center for Kapampangan Studies (CKS) of Holy Angel Univeristy (HAU) is set to launch its Kapampangan Arts Museum next month. The launching, according to CKS, will be featuring the sketches and memorabilia collection of Kapampangan National Artist for Visual Arts in 1982 Vicente “Enteng” Manansala y Silva of San Roque, Macabebe town. Manansala was a Philippine cubist painte...
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17Feb2012PAOAY, Ilocos Norte, Feb. 17 (PIA) -- Expect a taste of tradition as town folks mark the annual Guling-guling festival, a local version of mardi gras. Mardi gras is French for Fat Tuesday, referring to the practice of the last night of eating richer, fatty foods before the ritual fasting of the Lenten season, which begins on Ash Wednesday. In this town, Guling-guling, which means smearing the forehead with a cross sign, is a yearly pre-Lent tradition that is one of the town&r...
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17Feb2012LAOAG CITY, Feb. 18 (PIA) – A visit to Ilocos will not be complete without picking up bits of “pasalubong” (souvenir). Here are just some of the famous Ilocos souvenirs: 1. 1. Cornick or chichacorn. The corn snack is available at the Laoag City public market, Museo Ilocos souvenir shop beside the provincial capitol, in convenience stores and in malls like SM SaveMore . Cornick producers are scattered around Ilocos Norte but are...
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17Feb2012DAVAO CITY Feb. 17 (PIA) ---Tagum City is preparing to host the prestigious Asia Pacific Choral Competition with this year’s staging of Musikahan sa Tagum. Alma Uy, chairperson of Musikahan 2012 said that they will be using the guidelines of the Asia Pacific Choral competition so that the city and also the choral groups can prepare for the festival which will be held in June this year. Musikahan sa Tagum which is on its 11th year is holding one of its main events the 'Himig Han...
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16Feb2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, Feb. 16 (PIA) -- An award-winning film director and an American historian will be honored through a prestigious cultural award which is given annually at Holy Angel University (HAU). Brillante Mendoza and Dr. John Larkin shall be the recipients of the award. Mendoza was famous because of the award-winning film he directed, ‘Kinatay.’ Larkin wrote the 1972 book, “The Pampangans: Colonial Society in a Philippine Province,” ...
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16Feb2012TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, Feb. 16 (PIA) -– All are set for the much awaited 2-day Pahimis Festival at the town plaza of Amadeo were local and foreign tourists are expected to witness this yearly event. Pahimis is a coffee festival of thanksgiving by the farmers as they gave away his last can of harvest. It’s a traditional offering made by the farmers for their bountiful harvest. Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan who is the committee chairman of Agricultur...
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15Feb2012VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur, Feb. 15 (PIA) -- This UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site recently has been abuzz with the latest news from the international world. It is one of the 89 cities nominated in the search of the New 7 Wonder Cities of the World. The city government under Mayor Eva Marie Medina has been promoting this campaign with flyers to every resident or Bigueno as on-line votes is a must to keep Vigan into the next phase. Thi...
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15Feb2012Gregorio Paddayuman started his romance with his horse-drawn rig (calesa) as early as when he was barely 19 years old in Barangay Capatan, Tuguegarao City. Now 70 years old, it came as a shock that he is about to meet foreign and local individuals, to ride on his calesa even, as they visit Cagayan province. “It’s more fun in Cagayan,” he might tell these visitors as the Department of Tourism has tapped him, along with nine other drivers, to help promote the latest Phil...
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14Feb2012CAMIGUIN, Mambajao, Feb. 14, 2012 (PIA) -- The eruption of Mt. Vulcan Daan in 1870s left the island an extraordinary, never-missed tourist attraction site famously known as the “Sunken Cemetery,” marked by a huge cross rising from the waves. The volcanic fissure and spewing of lava into the sea gained height of nearly 2,000 feet and submerged areas of Catarman, including the former capitol’s cemetery. Catarman is the first capital town of the province and the ...
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14Feb2012ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Feb. 14 (PIA6) – Pop and classical music will take center stage here in a tribute to Ms. Jovita Fuentes , the great Capiceña diva, on her natal day on Feb. 15. The hour-long “Jovita Fuentes Cultural Show” will feature students who have won in school-based provincial level singing contests. The show is part of the month-long Provincial Arts Month celebration. There will also be an audio – visual presentation o...
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14Feb2012VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur, Feb. 14 (PIA) -- Eight outstanding sons and daughters who made Ilocos Sur proud in their individual fields, were awarded the Father Jose Burgos Awards 2012 during this year’s Kannawidan Ylocos Festival on February 2. These Ilocos Surians have gone beyond their works and lives, inspiring their fellow residents and the whole province, like the martyr priest Father Burgos. They moved forward using their talents and skills to m...
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14Feb2012LAOAG CITY, Feb. 13 (PIA) – This year’s Dulang (food) festival didn’t just bring back Ilocanos’ comfort food. It also reinvented beans (or bukbukel) to remind the young of their elders’ practical culinary skills. The food festival last week was a display of how the lowly beans from mongo, pea, peanut, soybean and sesame were transformed to creative food fusions blending ingredients from the modern and vintage era. The Dulang food fair is a comp...
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13Feb2012COMPOSTELA VALLEY, Feb. 13 -- Compostela Valley (COMVAL) is the first among other provinces all over the country to finish the formulation of the Ancestral Domain Sustainable Development and Protection Plan (ADSDPP). The National Commission for the Indigenous People (NCIP) COMVAL Provincial Director Shirley Iguianon revealed that all towns of the province have already completed its ADSDPP formulation, the last to turn over was municipality of Maragusan last January 10, 2012. AD...
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13Feb2012QUEZON CITY, Feb. 13 (PIA) -- Philippine tropical fabrics seized the limelight in the recent Bagong Habi, Salinlahi: Cutting Edge Philippine Textiles fashion show by the Philippine Textile Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PTRI). Held recently at the InterContinental Hotel Manila, the fashion show featured DOST-PTRI-developed fabrics, such as water hyacinth, saluyot, maguey, piña, banana and abaca styled into classy and elegant pieces by youn...
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12Feb2012MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon, Feb. 12 (PIA) -- The Kaamulan Festival in Bukidnon is a tribal tradition depiciting indigenous people's love for God and peace. The Festival is annually celebrated to share the cultural creativity of the hill tribes, highlighting the thanksgiving after a bountiful harvest or a gathering after resolving feuds between clans or tribes resulting to a sealed ritual and peace pact, reminding us that the source of life is sacred and heaven-sent. “T...
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12Feb2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, Feb. 12 (PIA) -- The city government is enlivening its arts and culture, both traditional or contemporary. According to Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, “even as we are working on further improving the quality of life of Angeleños, and bettering our services for them, we will never leave the arts and culture phase for this shaped who we are today.” “Arts and culture binds us as a people," he said, that is why "the city ...
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11Feb2012ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte, Feb. 11 – The city of Iligan is set to hold a fund-raising activity this national arts month celebration. With the theme, “One HeART for Iligan,” this activity is aptly for those individuals and families affected by tropical storm Sendong, said City Councilor Michelle Sweet, Chairperson on Committee on History, Culture and the Arts in the city council. Hence, Councilor Sweet said she is now coordin...
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10Feb2012BAGUIO CITY, Feb. 10 (PIA) - - For this whole month of February the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) spearheads the country’s celebration of Philippine Arts Festival (PAF) 2012. Various festive events are scheduled on various parts of the country, which banners the flagship projects of the commission, in the fields of architecture, cinema, dance, literature, music, dramatic arts and visual arts. For the field of Dramatic Arts, NCCA, for the sixth year, will be ...
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09Feb2012CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, Feb. 9 (PIA) -- A total of 86 poets, playwrights, essayists and fictionists from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao are set to converge in Clark Freeport today for the 4th Taboan Philippine Writers Festival. National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) National Committee on Literary Arts chair Priscilla Macansantos said “the Taboan, which literary means the marketplace in Bisaya, seeks to serve as an avenue for the academic exchange of ideas among t...
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09Feb2012CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga, Feb. 9 (PIA) -- The second volume of the Kapampangan literary journal "Tuglung" will be launched in a confab today in this Freeport. According to National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Chairman Felipe de Leon Jr., the literary journal will be launched coinciding with the opening of the 4th Tabaon: Philippine Writers' Festival which will be held at the Fontana Convention Center here. “Tuglung,” which means “...
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09Feb2012CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga, Feb. 9 (PIA) -- A total of 86 writers from all over the country will converge here as they aim to highlight the importance of history and culture in Philippine literature. Dubbed as “Taboan: Philippine Writers Festival,” the event will be held starting today until Saturday (February 9-11) where the country’s poets, playwrights, essayists, and fictionists will merge and share their expertise. The conference, according to Festival ...
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09Feb2012ZAMBOANGA CITY, Feb. 09 (PIA) -- Film enthusiasts and film makers will get the chance to showcase their “creation” as the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the City Government of Zamboanga conduct the first short film competition, as one of the activities lined-up for 2012 “dia de la ciudad de Zamboanga,” the 75th anniversary celebration of Zamboanga as a Chartered City on Feb. 26. Film entries should depict the theme &ldq...
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08Feb2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Feb. 8 (PIA) -- Three national artists will grace the Fourth Philippine Writers' Festival dubbed as “Taboan,” a yearly writers’ conference spearheaded by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). These artists are Virgilio Almario, Bienvenido Lumbera, and F. Sionil Jose, together with 86 poets, playwrights, fictionists and novelists from all parts of the country who will converge at the Fontana Leisure Park in Clark Freepo...
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08Feb2012MARINDUQUE, Feb. 8 (PIA) -- National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Chairman Felipe de Leon signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Governor Carmencita O. Reyes last February 6 for the teaching of a musical instrument called ‘Kalutang.’ The project, initiated by Provincial Travel and Tourism Officer (PTT) Dindo Asuncion and coordinated by Erwin Penafiel, is designed to ensure the continuity of Kalutang’s intangible heritage and to perpetuate the skills of pla...
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08Feb2012BACOLOD CITY, Feb. 8 (PIA6) - - The cinema lobby’s red carpet entrance was abuzz with local and national film luminaries, delegates and moviegoers waiting for the films to roll for the BACOLLYWOOD: CINEMA REHIYON, a National Film Festival. BACOLLYWOOD: CINEMA REHIYON National Film Festival is a pilot project of the National Commission of Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Committee on Cinema in conduit with Crossing Negros Cultural Foundation Inc. and pro...
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07Feb2012TUGUEGARAO CITY, Feb. 7 (PIA) -- To boost tourism industry in this city, the Department of Tourism (DOT) region 2 has initiated tourism kalesa with coachmen (kutcheros) who were accredited as tour guides. Twelve kalesas that are newly painted with tourism spots, historical destinations and churches were launched during the Tipon-Tipan sa PIA, in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) region 2. Regional Director Blessida Diwa said the accredited coachmen were the...
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07Feb2012MARIKINA CITY, February 7 (PIA) -- The city government of Marikina officially opened its ‘Arts Festival 2012’ on Monday, February 6, 2012. The event is in line with the celebration of the Philippine Arts Festival spearheaded by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts with the theme “Tradition and Innovation.” Marikina Mayor Del De Guzman said the festival aims to further promote Philippine arts and the Filipino’s regard for l...
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07Feb2012QUEZON CITY, Feb. 7 (PIA) -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) will spearhead the month-long celebration of the Philippine Arts Festival this February. Anchored on the theme "Tradisyon at Inobasyon" (Tradition and Innovation), NCCA set a series of activities to promote and preserve the arts and culture of the different regions of the country through the use of both traditional and contemporary means. Mr. Nemesio Miranda, Head of the National Commit...
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07Feb2012If you want to catch Tabuk City at its most colorful and most lively time, come to attend the Matagoan Festival which is held on the Foundation Day of the city every June 24. During the street dancing, the thoroughfares of the city fairly burst with colors as the participating ethnic groups don their native customs. The vivid bright colors of Cordillera ethnic groups dominate the more subdued hues of the Tagalogs and Ilocanos. There is also a wide variance in the sound, as the Cordillera n...
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07Feb2012QUEZON CITY, Feb. 7 (PIA) -- National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) together with the Department of Education (DepEd) has started training teachers through the Special Program for the Arts (SPA) nationwide. This program aims to give pointers on how to teach art in the modern times. “This is also a way to update the teachers on new art expressions,” NCCA Head of Committee on Visual Arts, Mr. Nemesio Miranda said this morning. Recently, NCCA has conducte...
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06Feb2012BAGUIO CITY, Feb. 6 (PIA) -- The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is leading the country’s celebration of Philippine Arts Festival 2012 the whole month of February focused on the theme, ‘Tradisyon at Inobasyon’. Launching the festivity in this city, NCCA Deputy Executive Director Marlene Ruth Sanchez spearheaded a kapihan forum at the Philippine Information Agency (PIA-CAR) Dap-ay last Thursday. Sanchez was joined ...
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06Feb2012CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Feb 7 (PIA) -- The Katig han Sinirangan Bisayas Waray writers who gathered on Saturday at the Leyte Normal University (LNU) were asked to resuscitate Waray literature by Prof. Merle Alunan, a well known writer and a professor of the UP System. As if to challenge the budding writers, Alunan quoted a statement from Dr Bienvenido Lumbera that said , “Not much is produced in some regional literatures; in fact some are moribound or dying, as in the case of Waray...
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06Feb2012TABUK CITY,Kalinga, Feb. 6 (PIA) -- ‘Amung’ (coming together) is a common word among the multi-dialect cultural communities in Kalinga, a word where they could literary gather as one people amidst differences, a word which connotes festivity. In this year’s Ullalim Festival, cultural promoters headed by Natividad Sugguiyao, Provincial Director of the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) designed the staging of the ‘amung’ in a cultur...
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06Feb2012CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Feb 6 (PIA) -- The Leyte Normal University (LNU) Sirang Theatre Ensemble honored some Waray poets during the Regional Taboan-Waray writers meeting on February 4, 2012. Poetry written by the likes of Victor Sugbu, Voltaire Oyzon, Harold Mercurio, Dante Rosales, Neil Lopido, Imelda Ruiz, and Janis Salvacion among others came to life with the performances of theater actors and actresses trained by Joe Llanza of LNU. The poets themselves, with Prof Merle Alunan, Prof Mayet ...
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05Feb2012DUMAGUETE CITY, Feb. 5 (PIA) --- Dumaguete City’s most popular cultural show returns to the stage today, Feb. 5, after nearly three months of absence from the local limelight. Dumaguete City Tourism Officer Woodrow Maquiling, Jr. earlier announced the return of Tayada sa Plaza, a weekly cultural event that has been staged every Sunday afternoon at the Quezon Park for the past ten years. Tayada sa Plaza showcases the numerous talents and skills of students coming from th...
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05Feb2012DUMAGUETE CITY, Feb. 5 (PIA) --- The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) unveiled on Feb. 2, 2012 a historical marker for “Jose Rizal sa Dumaguete” at Quezon Park, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. The unveiling, which was led by NHCP’s Executive Director Ludovico Badoy and Dumaguete Mayor Manuel Sagarbarria, was in line with NHCP’s celebration of Rizal@150th. The marker was afterwards turned over to the city government of Dumaguete...
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04Feb2012CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Feb 4 (PIA) -- To establish a core group of writers that will spearhead the preservation of the writings in Waray, Sebuano, and Inabaknon in Eastern Visayas, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in cooperation with Katig Writers Network Inc. and the Leyte Normal University (LNU) - Panrehiyong Sentro will hold Katig Han Sinirangan Bisayas: 2012 Regional Taboan Satellite Activity. This will be held today, February 4 at the CHED Center for Teaching Excell...
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04Feb2012GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Feb 4 (PIA) - Let’s go! Mag-Kalilangan Tayo! With this welcome tagline, all is set for the 16th Kalilangan Festival and the 73rd Foundation Anniversary celebration, according to Festival Director Mimi Abiera. She said this year’s celebration highlights the convergence of tri-people who have lived in co-existence with one another in this area. With the theme, "Convergence in Divergence: Enriching Heritage, Bridging Cultures...
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03Feb2012QUEZON CITY, Feb. 3 (PIA) -- February is known in Western and Western-influenced countries as the month of love because of the popular occasion known as “Valentine’s Day.” In the Philippines, however, the month is celebrated for two occasions, one for Valentines, the other, National Arts Month. It was January 1991 when then President Corazon Aquino signed Proclamation No. 683 declaring the month of February of every year as National Arts Month. It was this proclamation...
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03Feb2012Now on its 17th year, the Ullalim Festival will once again take the center stage from February 10 to 14 as all the sub-cultural communities in the province will be flaunting their best cultural performances. 'Ullalim' which lmeans a tale, saga or story is either sang or chanted during romantic moonlit nights, Bodong and wedding celebrations or any occasion. Ullalim is the poetic expression of the heroic exploits, romance, joys and travails, and the way of life of the Kaling...
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03Feb2012Whether Cagayanos admit it or not, the Rizal Park of Tuguegarao City is in a very bad shape. No thanks to the vandals and other criminal elements who have used it at one time or another as a stop-over for their nefarious activities in the past. The lot where it now stands was first dedicated by Governor Honorio Lasam to the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal on August 17, 1918 where it complemented another historical building at its side, the old residence of the gobernadorcillo during the S...
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01Feb2012Hearts month around the world is also Arts Month in the Philippines. The annual arts festival started with the signing of Presidential Proclamation 683, in 1991, declaring February as National Arts Month (NAM). Through the years, the National Center for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in partnership with private and government agencies, organized events that highlight the artistic brilliance of Filipinos. In recent years, the NCCA has been organizing a festival that showcases the ...
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01Feb2012CITY OF MALOLOS, Bulacan, Feb. 1 (PIA) -- Bulakenyos are invited to commemorate the greatness of their fellow son, Blas Ople, through a short program on his 85th birth anniversary on Feb. 3 at the building named after him in the Capitol Compound. Governor Wilhelmino Alvarado encouraged Bulakenyos to once again give accolade to the known Father of Overseas Employment as the day was declared a special non-working holiday in the province. “Let us all commemorate the 85th bir...
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01Feb2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Feb. 1 (PIA) -- President Benigno Aquino III declared Feb. 3, Friday, a special non-working holiday in Cabanatuan City in line with its 62nd Foundation Day. Aquino issued Proclamation No.327 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. on Jan. 31 to give the people of Cabanatuan the opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion. The city is considered the commercial, industrial and educational hub of Nueva Ecija. It was founded as a...
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01Feb2012CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Feb.1 (PIA) -- The city government commemorated yesterday the 136th birth anniversary of Pedro Abad Santos, a known Kapampangan doctor, lawyer and politician at Heroes Hall, here. A wreath laying ceremony headed by Mayor Oscar Rodriguez, the City Council, together with the Abad Santos family was held around 8a.m. today. Rodriguez said, “This is one way to give honor to Pedro and at the same time, preserve the culture of Pampanga. He contrib...
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01Feb2012LAOAG CITY, Feb. 1 (PIA) -- A grand civic-military parade kicks of the Pamulinawen Festival in the Sunshine City of the North this month. Laoag City’s annual fiesta, the Pamulinawen Festival is an integral part of its cultural and religious traditions. Held every 10th of February, Laoag City gives honor to its patron, Saint William the Hermit, who Laoaguenos believe protects them from calamities and disasters. The month-long celebration is now on its 16th year. This year's ...
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01Feb2012Christian devotees from the neighboring towns and provinces of Luna, La Union flock to Our Lady of Namacpacan hoping to experience a miracle like some of the townspeople here. One of them is Rosa Roldan who was born lame. She claimed that Our Lady came to her home and made her walk. She was then 13 years old. Also, according to stories among townfolks, a group of indigenous people came down from the highlands in response to a request from a beautiful “Seniora” who appeare...
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01Feb2012“Saying poetry? Haha! It is boring.” We are celebrating this February the National Arts Month which accentuates the seven art forms such as music, dance, visual arts, literature, theater, architecture and cinema. All of these, when fused into a tableau, will kindle a psychedelic blaze breathing life to a mishmash of emotions and sentiments. Art is indeed all-encompassing. Yet where does the antiquated poetry reading fall in? In literature? Most probably, a...
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01Feb2012SABANGAN, Mt. Province, Feb.1 (PIA) -- About 400 delegates representing the five catholic high schools and one elementary school of the Mt. Province District of the Vicariate Schools of Bontoc-Lagawe actively participated in the fourth School of Living tradition (SLT) Convention which was successfully conducted last January 26 – 28 at the San Alfonso High School compound here. The theme of this year’s SLT Convention is “Inculturation Towards Sustainable Developme...
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01Feb2012LAOAG CITY, Feb. 1 (PIA) – Residents were awaken early morning today by drumbeats and fireworks, which ushered in the beginning of the month-long Pamulinawen Festival. The festival is one of the anticipated events throughout the year in this bustling city as residents are treated to days of merrymaking and thanksgiving. Pamulinawen has consistently attracted a growing number of festival-goers since its inception in 1996. The Department of Tourism and the Association of Tourism ...
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30Jan2012GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Jan. 30 (PIA)---Maitum’s 5th Bangsi Festival offered more fun this year as it opened Thursday (Jan 26) to celebrate the bountiful wealth of the sea and the lush forest that Mother Nature endowed to the town. Maitum is one of the seven municipalities of Sarangani that has advanced itself as one of the promising tourist destinations of the province so far. The event which carries the theme“Yamang Dagat Pahalagahan, Kalikasan Pangalagaan” kic...
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29Jan2012DUMAGUETE CITY, Jan. 29 (PIA) --- A meager budget did not stop this year’s Sinulog Festival dancers from Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental to dance their way into the Top 10 of the recently-concluded Sinulog festival in Cebu City. Dumaguete City Tourism Officer Woodrow Maquiling, Jr. said the city’s contingent ranked no. 9 in the Free Interpretation Category this year. The city’s contingent ranked no. 18 in last year’s Sinulog Festival. Maquilin...
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28Jan2012LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, Jan. 28 (PIA) -– National Commission of Culture and the Arts is continuously funding School of Living Tradition (SLT) projects to transmit indigenous skills and techniques to the young and ensure its transmission to the next generations. National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Ibaloi-Kankana-ey Coordinator Brian Camhit said two of the nine project proposals for 2011-2012 submitted to the NCCA are ready for implementation while two were already del...
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27Jan2012DAVAO CITY, Jan. 27 (PIA) -– Instead of bringing gongs and bamboo music fete in typhoon Sendong-stricken Cagayan de Oro City, the Philippine Arts Festival 2012 will be held in said city to provide music and dance therapy to the disaster survivors. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) will be staging the PAF this year in CDO as well as in Iligan City to tender the arts therapy in lieu of the First Asian Festival of Gongs and Bamboo Music activity which was earlier prog...
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27Jan2012TARLAC CITY, Tarlac, Jan. 27 (PIA) -- To further promote this city’s heritage, for this year, the city’s festival theme will focus on its customs. “Dubbed as ‘Sigla’t Saya, Sama-Sama kahit Magkakaiba,’ this festival will remind our people of the significance of the unyielding collaboration carried by our forefathers who despite their differences, still worked harmoniously and turned the impossible into achievable,” said Tarlac City Mayor Ace Man...
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26Jan2012DAVAO CITY, Jan. 26 (PIA) -- “Sayaw Pinoy,” the longest running national dance tour featured in this year’s Philippine Arts Festival (PAF), will be staged in the city on Feb. 3 to 4. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) brings in to Davao City the country’s top dance companies to perform in a dance tour that will showcase colorful tradition of dances and movements in the country. NCCA’s National Committee on Dance head Shirley Ha...
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26Jan2012QUEZON CITY, Jan. 26 (PIA) -- To promote the use of indigenous fibers in the country such as piña, banana, abaca, and Philippine silk, President Benigno Aquino III recently signed Proclamation No. 313 declaring January of every year as “Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF) Month. President Aquino designated the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), which leads the research and development of technologies on ...
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25Jan2012PANGASINAN, Jan. 25 (PIA) – The Protected Areas, Wildlife and Coastal Zone Management Service has strengthened its efforts to protect and conserve caves and cave resources in the region. This will be done thru partnerships with local government units and non-government organizations, according to Policarpio Najera, OIC-Regional Director of PAWCZMS. The said the office has recently forged a memorandum of mgreement with LGU Mabini here to co-manage the natural wonders, he said. The wester...
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25Jan2012CITY OF MALOLOS, Bulacan, Jan. 25 (PIA) -- After missing a couple of big cultural revelries in the province, Vice President Jejomar Binay finally made it to the 113th anniversary of the First Philippine Republic at Barasoain Church here. Clad in a barong tagalog, Binay said the Filipinos need to remember the lessons and scars left by history preceding and following the institution of the First Philippine Republic, the first constitutional republic in Asia, on January 23, 1899. ...
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24Jan2012BAGUIO CITY, Jan. 24 (PIA) -- Typhoons and other calamities brought by climate change has taken its toll on the Ifugao rice terraces bringing in damages that threatens it to be delisted from the World Heritage sites of UNESCO. This was disclosed by Banaue Mayor Jerry Dalipog in a recent kapihan forum hosted by the Department of Tourism (DOT-CAR). According to DOT Regional Director Pura Molintas, UNESCO already gave the country a deadline for the restorat...
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24Jan2012by Joelyn G. Baluyut CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga, Jan. 24 (PIA) -- The second volume of the Kapampangan literary journal will be launched in a confab on Feb. 9 to 11 here. According to National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Chairman Felipe de Leon Jr., the literary journal will be launched coinciding with the opening of the 4th Tabaon which will be held in this Freeport. “Tuglung,” which to means “to connect” is a compilation of...
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24Jan2012DAVAO CITY, JAN. 24 (PIA)-- Regional film festivals in Mindanao have contributed their share of films for the forthcoming Cinema Rehiyon 2012 National Film Festival to be held in Bacolod City this February 8 to 12. Among those to be showcased in the annual film festival of regional movies will be Zamboanga City’s “Placebo,” Cagayan de Oro’s “Carmen” and Davao’s “Atong Amigo.” "Placebo" won the best film in the last year&rs...
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24Jan2012TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Jan 24 (PIA) -- In line with the nationwide celebration of February as Arts Month 2012, the University of Philippines Visayas Tacloban College through its Division of Humanities will be holding a one-day forum on February 3, 2012, entitled “Kinaadman para han aton Kalibutan ha Kabubuwason” (Knowledge for Our World Tomorrow) which will cover Philippine Culture, Education and Media Directions for the Millennium. To make the discussion during the for...
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24Jan2012STA. FE, Nueva Vizcaya, January 24 (PIA) -- Foreign and local tourists and commuters who passes through the Cagayan Valley region cannot escape the sight of the boundary arch between the provinces of Nueva Vizcaya and Nueva Ecija. With the structures built on top of the mountain and with a weather similar to that of Baguio City, curiosity lures many travellers to learn more about the landmark. The marker does not only stand as a welcome structure for commuters but also represents one o...
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24Jan2012BACOLOD CITY, Jan. 24 (PIA) -- The BacoLaodiat Festival promises to be the next tourism event in the city. The Tourism Strip at Lacson Street was turned into a little China town with Chinese lanterns lining up the streets illuminating the kiosks and stages for the three day event from January 20-22 while the New Government Center drew its biggest crowd ever for the culmination activities of the festival on January 23. Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia in his message during the Cultural...
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24Jan2012TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, January 24 (PIA) -- If you ever wonder what an empty coconut shell hoisted on a stick on all corners of an ubi patch is doing, count yourself one of the many people baffled by such a scene. But if you ask the ritual experts, they will tell you the eyes of the coconut shell, like crude parabolic antennas, keep watch over your patch and protects it from anyone intent on spoiling your good harvest. Funny? Don't ever show that to an ubi farmer, lest he be insulted. ...
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23Jan2012ILOILO CITY, Jan 23 (PIA) - - The efficacy of the world renowned Dinagyang Festival’s as a tool for economic development of the province and city of Iloilo is laudable said Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Sr. recently as he assured continued support to the annual religious-cultural festival. “Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog has shown the kind of leadership that does not only bring color , fame and development , but he has likewise set the tone of unity in th...
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22Jan2012ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, Jan. 22 (PIA) -- A known Kapampangan poet laureate was crowned by the Center for Kapampangan Studies (CKS) of Holy Angel University (HAU) here in recognition of his immense contribution for the birth and revitalization of Kapampangan literature in this province. Delfin Turla Quiboloy, as represented by his family, was given a gold crown of laurel leaves as a symbol of dignity of long-ago glory last Jan. 14 at HAU. According to CKS Director Robby Tantingco, &ldqu...
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22Jan2012DAVAO CITY, Jan. 22 (PIA) -- A public elementary school here that consistently emerged champion in a traditional music feat for two successive years received sets of indigenous musical instruments from a private power company. The Bolton Elementary School of Davao City accepted musical instruments for its music and dance troupe called “Sa Tabok Cultural Dance Ensembles,” as gifts from the Davao Light and Power Co. in December last year. The sets of indigenous instru...
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21Jan2012MANILA, Jan. 21 (PIA) -– The country’s biggest stamp exhibit is all set as the Philippine Philatelic Federation in partnership with the Philippine Postal Corporation (Philpost) present the Philippine Philatelic Exhibition (PhilPEX) 2012. With this year’s theme “Knowledge and Fun through Stamp Collecting," the event aims to promote and inculcate the hobby of stamp collecting especially among the younger generation. According to PhilPost, knowledge can be gained ...
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20Jan2012ILOILO CITY, Jan 20 (PIA 6) - - Foreign and domestic visitors who earlier came to Iloilo City to witness the world-famous Dinagyang were treated to various performances of majorettes in their choreographed dance and baton twirling exhibitions which rhythmically blend with the band. The activity is Tambor, Trumpa, Martsa, Musika contest among Drum and Bugle Corps in the city and province of Iloilo, as one of the highlights of the Dinagyang Festival. Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog sai...
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02Jan2012MANILA, Jan 2 (PIA) -- The year 2012 marks the mythical dragon creature. According to the Chinese zodiac, a dragon symbolizes power, strength, and good luck. And to welcome the year of the dragon, the Philippine Postal Corporation (PhilPost) launches its 2012 commemorative New Year stamps. According to PhilPost postmaster general Josefina Dela Cruz, the new commemorative stamps illustrate the head of a fire-breathing dragon that can be seen in a P7-worth stamp, while the...
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19Dec2011CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Dec. 19 (PIA) -- Barangay Santa Lucia captured its second straight Giant Lantern Festival crown with an entry inspired by the Filipino Christmas songs “Kumukutikutitap” and “Sa Araw ng Pasko.” Officials from the village personally received the P103,000 cash incentive and trophy from city of San Fernando Mayor Oscar Rodriguez and Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda during Saturday’s competition at the Robinsons Starmills. ...
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19Dec2011CEBU CITY, Dec. 19 (PIA) -- The Cebu Provincial Government, Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc., League of Municipalities-Cebu Chapter, and Department of Education with the support of the Cebu Artists Inc., University of San Carlos-Conservation and Heritage Research Institute and Workshop, and United Architects of the Philippines will open an art exhibit called "Mugna-Lambigit" on Dec. 21 at the 3rd floor Atrium of SM City-Cebu. "Mugna-Lambigit" is a fund-raising Gabaldon ...
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16Dec2011CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Dec 16 (PIA) -- A total of 10 barangays of the city of San Fernando will be joining the 2011 Giant Lantern Festival scheduled tomorrow evening at Robinsons Starmills. The City Tourism Office disclosed that the participating barangays include defending champion Santa Lucia; perennial contenders Del Pilar, Telebastagan, Santo Niño, and Dolores; San Juan, San Pedro, and San Jose; first time entrant Calulut and Del Carmen which is rejoining the ...
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15Dec2011ANGELES CITY, Pampanga, Dec. 15 (PIA) -- The Center for Kapampangan Studies of Holy Angel University, in partnership with Centro Gallego de Filipinas, on Tuesday launched a book that highlights the influence of the Galician region of Spain in Philippine history and culture. Author and Kapampangan Lino Dizon said, “our book, entitled Cruceiro: Spanish Galicia at some crossroads in Philippine History and Culture (1521-1898), is meant to reassess Spanish contributions in the country ...
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14Dec2011For Melody delas Alas, a student of Linangcob National High School in barangay Linangcob, Kidapawan City, North Cotabato, the recent provincial leadership camp was an eye-opener. She said the leadership peace camp did not only help her gain a better perception about other tribes, especially Muslims, but also boosted her confidence as a student. According to her, she will return to her school proud of her experience. Delas Alas is one of the 210 high school student leaders who h...
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05Dec2011CONCEPCION, Tarlac, Dec 5 (PIA) -- Four towns, which coincidentally comes from the first congressional district, bagged the Grand Municipal category top prize of this year’s Belenismo sa Tarlac. Officials from San Clemente, San Manuel, Moncada, and Anao personally received their trophies and cash rewards from President Benigno Aquino III during Saturday’s festive awards night in Concepcion town. San Clemente’s belen, which is situated in the municipal ha...
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04Dec2011CONCEPCION, Tarlac, Dec. 3 (PIA) -- President Benigno Aquino III on Saturday graced the awarding ceremony of the "5th Belenismo sa Tarlac" at the Jesus R. Lapus Memorial Sports Complex in Concepcion town. Aquino personally bestowed the distinction to the winners of the competition’s six categories namely diorama high school, diorama personal, church, monumental, grand municipal (local government units) and grand non-municipal (government agencies and business esta...
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02Dec2011TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental, Dec. 2 (PIA) -- The city dubbed as “Christmas Symbols Capital of the Philippines” will be lighted from dusk until dawn, from Dec. 1, 2011 to Jan. 8, 2012. “I have been to all the openings of the festival which is now on its 19th year, but so far, last night was the best,” Judith Tablan, City Information Officer, said. She said the festival, on its first day alone, reached more than 50,000. "The City Tourism Offi...
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30Nov2011TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental, Nov. 30 (PIA) -– With the final touches done on the replica of the Christmas Symbols being readied for the Dec. 1 opening, people of the city are keeping their fingers crossed that the festival will draw more tourists, this year. This, as the City Tourism Office (CTO) data show that 239,209 persons who visited the city, were walk-in guests during the Christmas Symbols Festival, from Dec. 1, 2010 to Jan. 9, 2011. Vicenta B. Paller, Senior Tourism Op...
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09Nov2011ZAMBOANGA CITY, Nov. 9 (PIA) -– The Department of Tourism (DOT) here urges all tourism-related establishments in the city to obtain accreditation with the agency and get the benefit of being part of DOT’s program. DOT Acting Regional Director Mary June Bugante shared, if an establishment is accredited with DOT, that particular establishment will be given priority in DOT trainings and will be included in the tourism department’s promotional materials. Bugante called on a...
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19Oct2011BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 20 (PIA) -- Bunawan, Agusan del Sur Mayor Edwin Elorde today said for the safety of the people especially during rainy season, Lolong’s companion must be captured at the soonest possible time. He said the local government is determined to capture the other crocodile, which was seen earlier last month with Lolong as the two reptiles attacked a carabao along the riverbank in the area. Elorde however admitted that people in the area especially those ...
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19Oct2011BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 19 (PIA) -- The 21-foot crocodile “Lolong” that was captured in Bunawan, Agusan del Sur a month ago is now a tourist attraction in the area. According to Bunawan Mayor Edwin Elorde, after the newly-constructed park has been opened to public, more and more local tourists from as far as Metro Manila are coming to see the captured crocodile touted as the biggest and longest captured croc in the country and perhaps in the world. Elorde said the ...
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18Oct2011ZAMBOANGA CITY, Oct. 18(PIA) -– A more illuminated, vibrant and an improved quality of sound system will awe the public as the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the National Museum have approved in principle the city government’s proposal to enhance Fort Pilar Shrine and the improvement of some infrastructures of the city’s national museum, this revealed City Information Officer (IO) Sheila Covarrubias. Covarrubias said “the National Museum through Director Jeremy Ba...
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14Oct2011QUEZON CITY, Oct. 13 (PIA) -- National Archives of the Philippines Exec. Dir. Victorino M. Manalo cited the importance of archiving in a society, saying, “The records of today form the history of tomorrow.” During the state-run radio program, "Talking Points," on Thursday, Manalo shared that their office is digitizing the archival records in its possession so it can ride with the changes through time, specially with the new generation’s heavy dependence ...
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14Oct2011ZAMBOANGA CITY, Oct. 14 (PIA) -- Tourism Sec. Ramon Jimenez Jr. recently unveiled the city’s newest attraction, a P2.3 million multi-patterned fountain constructed at Plaza Pershing. Jimenez, who was here as guest of Honor during the October 12 Hermosa Festival, graced the turned over of the fountain. The fountain boasts of its beauty, one of a kind and the second fountain recently turned over by the city. Earlier, the city turned over a laminar shooting jets fountain at the Jardin ...
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10Oct2011ZAMBOANGA CITY, Oct. 10 (PIA) -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) in partnership with the city government of Zamboanga will launch tonight at the Jardin Maria Clara in Pasonanca, a food festival that will cater the craves for “fiesta” foods of the public. The event dubbed as “Barrio Fiesta de Comidas” will bring in various restaurants from the city for a two-day food festival set on October 10-11. In a press statement from DOT, Senior Tourism Officer Marilou Silori...
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27Sep2011ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 27 (PIA) -- 35 participants benefit from the Department of Tourism (DOT) initiated Tour Guiding seminar being held today, September 27 until the 29th in one of the local hotels here. The three-day basic tour guiding seminar according to DOT Regional Director Mary June Bugante is a pre requisite to proceeding to the 21-days Advance Tour Guiding class of which participants will be issued their tour guiding accreditation/license. The said tour guiding seminar includes...
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16Sep2011BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 16 (PIA) -- The Department of Tourism (DOT)-Caraga Region and the local government units of the Province of Surigao del Norte and the municipality of General Luna, Siargao Island will open today the Surfing Festival 2011. According to DOT-Caraga, the two-week activity will feature national and international surfers as they will participate in three categories. The 13th Siargao National Surfing Cup, to be participated by surfers in all regions in the co...
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13Sep2011BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 13 (PIA) – The next "Panday" movie of Sen. Ramon "Bong" Revilla, Jr. might be filmed in Surigao del Norte. In his send-off press conference held at the VIP Lounge of Surigao City Airport, Revilla said he is eyeing to film the movie sequel in the province after seeing its unique tourist destinations. Revilla added this is one way of thanking the Surigaonons for their unending support not only to his political journey but also to ...
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10Sep2011SURIGAO CITY, Sept. 9 (PIA) -- Senior Tourism Operations Officer Roselyn Merlin today said the famous Bonok-bonok Maradjaw Karadjaw contingent of this city will not participate in the 2012 Sinulog Festival in Cebu City. In an interview at the city hall here, Merlin said joining in the prestigious Sinulog Festival in Cebu City next year is not practical considering the financial aspect the city and province will incur to organize a contingent. Merlin said it was in 2004 w...
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10Sep2011CONCEPCION, Tarlac, Sept. 10 (PIA) -- President Benigno S. Aquino III especially mentioned the influence made by his grandmother, the late Doῆa Aurora “Apung Guindang” Aquino (Ninoy’s mother) during the unveiling of a historical marker at the Aquino ancestral home in Concepcion, Tarlac. In particular, the President noted his grandmother's principle of “living a life with others,” a trait she had passed on to her descendents. President Aquin...
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05Sep2011ZAMBOANGA CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) -- The mini-boat race in the city’s Sucabon River in Zone 2 is fast becoming a tourist attraction in the city’s urban barangays. “Your boat-race activity is helping bolster barangay tourism,” said Committee Chair on Tourism Councilor Gerky Valesco during the annual mini boat race event held recently. In his keynote speech, Valesco lauded the ingenuity and inventiveness of the barangay council of Zone 2. The city tourism committee chai...
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30Aug2011ZAMBOANGA CITY, Aug. 30 (PIA) - - The city government of Zamboanga recognized the tourism efforts of the Zamboanga Adventure Tourism and Eco Recreation Society (ZATERS), a multi sectoral group being lead by the Philippine Information Agency 9-Department of Tourism-Department of Environment and Natural Resources (PIA-DOT-DENR) and SPELEO-Zamboanga. In its first year anniversary held over the weekend at the city’s favorite hang-out park-Paseo Del Mar, Mayor Celso Lobregat in his keyn...
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30Aug2011Zamboanga City, August 30 (PIA) -- Photos, videos and great stories, sometimes are not enough to illustrate the beauty and wonder of a particular scenic spot unless seen by own naked eye. One great experience is something money cannot buy. These are some of the mutual feelings that members of the Zamboanga Adventure Tourism Eco- Recreation Society (ZATERS) felt when the group embarked on it's first adventure tourism activity, a 1.8-kilometer trek on the recreational zone of the protected a...
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19Jul2011KORONADAL CITY, July 19 (PIA) -- Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia, governor of Cebu province -- home of the internationally acclaimed Sinulog Festival – was captivated by South Cotabato’s T’nalak Festival. “I am very, very impressed of the T’nalak Festival,” said Gov. Garcia, who was here as guest of honor of the culmination ceremonies of the 12th T’nalak Festival and 45th Foundation Anniversary of the province. “In the festival ...
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13Jul2011ROXAS CITY, July 12 (PIA) –- President Benigno S. Aquino III said Capiz can become another major tourist destination in the island of Panay alongside Boracay Island in Aklan. Speaking after distributing social services benefits to Capiceno beneficiaries at the Capiz Gym here July 12, President Aquino urged local government officials and the private sector here to work with the national government in developing Capiz’s tourism potentials especially its seafood to lure touris...
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28Jun2011ILOILO CITY, June 28 (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Western Visayas is urging all residential landowners to apply for a free patent or land title for their claimed properties. An occupant of a public residential lot can apply and get a free land title, under Republic Act 10023, or the Residential Land Patent Act of 2010. DENR-6 Regional Executive Director Julian Amador said RA 1003 includes the titling of residential lots where the...
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27Jun2011ILOILO CITY, June 27 (PIA) –- Upon arrival at the Caticlan Airport, a tourist proceeds to retrieve his checked-in luggage at the terminal building which is similar to, or has facilities at par with, other international airports in the Philippines and other tourist destinations abroad. From the airport, he can opt to check in at a nearby 5,000-room low-budget hotel and shop for some items he would need at an adjoining mall like today’s popular shopping centers. And if he wen...
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26Jun2011ILOILO CITY, June 26 (PIA) -– President Benigno S. Aquino III admired Boracay Island as a first-time visitor to the world-famous resort island off Caticlan in Malay, Aklan. But more than this personal admiration of the “paradise island”, President Aquino recognized Boracay as a major contributor to the country’s tourism industry. In his speech at the inauguration of the newly renovated Caticlan Airport yesterday, the President said that Boracay has been making a ...
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26Jun2011CEBU, June 26 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Bureau of Customs (BOC), Tariff Commission (TC) and other private sector partners will hold the ““ONE COUNTRY, ONE VOICE (OCOV) Trade Policy Consultation Program” and “Doing Business in Free Trade Areas (DBFTA) Part II – A Sectoral Approach” on June 29 at the Cebu Parklane International Hotel. The “One Country, One Voice (OCOV) – Enhancing Trade Policy Consultation Towards G...
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24Jun2011KORONADAL CITY, June 24 (PIA) -- South Cotabato’s first cluster sanitary landfill (SLF) was opened yesterday in Barangay Colongulo, Surallah town. The six-hectare Category 2 SLF caters to the needs of the host town Surallah and nearby municipalities Norala, T’boli, Banga, and Lake Sebu for a common SLF where they can deposit their residual solid wastes in compliance with the provisions of RA 9003 otherwise known as “The Ecological Solid Waste M...
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03Jun2011KORONADAL CITY, June 3 (PIA) -- All roads lead to South Cotabato in July for the celebration of the T’nalak Festival. The Office of Gov. Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr, yesterday released the final schedule of activities of the T’nalak Festival from July 12 to 18, which coincides with the province’s 45th Foundation Anniversary. Unlike in the previous year, activities this year are spread in several municipalities “to invol...
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10May2011DAVAO CITY, May 10 (PIA) – The Department of Tourism has projected a boom in the local hotel industry in the near future, as more hotels are expected to be constructed in a few years time. DOT regional director Arturo Boncato saw the need of more hotels in Davao City considering the deluge of visitors, especially at the height of summer season in the region. Boncato bared that at the pipeline in the tourism development, would be the construction of more hotels, locally and interna...
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20Apr2011DAVAO CITY, April 20 (PIA) – To entice summer tourists to this part of Mindanao, the local government of Davao City is launching its own Davao Summer Festival. City Tourism Officer Jason Magnaye says it’s a marketing strategy to support the private sector particularly those involved in tourism to attract people in search for a summer destination. Magnaye said that currently there are no summer festivities in this time of the year in Davao. For the other three quarte...
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07Apr2011CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental, April 7 (PIA) – A total of 1,483,525 tourists visited Northern Mindanao in 2010, higher by 41.47% compared to 1,048,662 in 2009. Of this figure, 1,439,431 or 97.03% were Filipinos, while 44,094 or 2.97% were foreigners, Director Catalino E. Chan III of the Dept. of Tourism (DOT), region 10 said. He also said the most favored destination by the Filipino tourists was the Ozamiz-Oroquita-Tangub-Misamis Occidental Cluster, probably due to Chris...
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03Apr2011ILOILO CITY, April 3 (PIA) – The Department of Tourism (DOT) said there are other areas in Western Visayas that can be developed into major tourist destinations in addition to Boracay Island, which has already gained worldwide recognition. Iloilo is one of them which with proper packaging, said tourism Secretary Alberto Lim, could become another major tourist destination with focus on its rich cultural heritage. Lim said Iloilo boasts of old churches, heritage houses, religious an...
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29Mar2011DAVAO CITY, March 29 (PIA) – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in the region clarified that Executive Order No. 23 is not imposing a total log ban, saying it is only declaring a moratorium on timber cutting and harvesting in natural and residual forests. Issued by President Benigno Aquino on February 1 this year, EO 23 which took effect on March 7 declared a moratorium on the cutting and harvesting of timber in the natural and residual forests of the entire countr...
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18Feb2011DAVAO CITY, Feb. 18 (PIA) -- Slow influx of tourists in the city was noted last year with only one percent growth and a slight decline of domestic travelers. The National Economic and Development Authority reported that the tourism sector’s performance in the region in 2010 was “rather flat as reflected in the volume of visitor arrivals.” Regional Director Ma. Lourdes Lim of NEDA bared that the region recorded a total of 671,603 visitor arrivals during the first three quarter...
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23Jan2011ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan. 23 (PIA9) – The Department of Tourism (DOT) in partnership with the city government of Zamboanga has set a training workshop on Community-Based Tourism (CBT) Program on January 28-29 at the La Vista Del Mar Beach Resort, here. The two- day training-workshop designs to orient and level off understanding on tourism among committee members of the newly created multi-sectoral Committee on Eco-tourism. It also aims to develop criteria that will serve as basis for as...
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23Jan2011ZAMBOANGA CITY,Jan. 22 (PIA) – The multi-sectoral group of the Zamboanga Adventure Tourism and Eco-Recreation Society (ZATERS) starts the year with a bang as it drumbeats efforts on the promotion of the city’s adventure tourism. The officers of ZATERS met yesterday at the Department of Tourism (DOT) Office to discuss 2011 line up activities that would contribute in catapulting the city as one of the country’s finest adventure tourism haven. The officers came to a cons...
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20Jan2011ZAMBOANGA CITY, Jan 20. (PIA) -- With strong determination to catapult the city as one of the finest eco-tourist destinations in the country, the city has set ‘bulk” of attention to eco-tourism development and created a Committee on Eco-tourism by virtue of Executive Order (EO) No. CL- 382-2010 to put direction on its development. The committee is composed of multi-sectoral groups and is focused on coming up with eco-tourism development plans of the city. The creation of the ...
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13Apr2010CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (13 April) -- The relatively better peace and order condition in Northern Mindanao has continued to draw tourists to the region. "This is proven by the number of foreign and domestic tourists that visited the region, last year," Catalino E. Chan III, Regional Director of the Dept. of Tourism (DOT) region 10, said. He said tourist arrivals increased from 1,041,362 in 2008 to 1,048,662 in 2009 or 0.7 percent, with the foreign and domestic tourists posting i...
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