This might not be the typical expat blog, written by a German expat, living in the Philippines since 1999. It's different. In English and in German. Check it out! Enjoy reading!
Dies mag' nun wirklich nicht der typische Auswandererblog eines Deutschen auf den Philippinen sein. Er soll etwas anders sein. In Englisch und in Deutsch! Viel Spass beim Lesen!
You plan to move to the Philippines? Wollen Sie auf den Philippinen leben?
There are REALLY TONS of websites telling us how, why, maybe why not and when you'll be able to move to the Philippines. I only love to tell and explain some things "between the lines". Enjoy reading, be informed, have fun and be entertained too!
Ja, es gibt tonnenweise Webseiten, die Ihnen sagen wie, warum, vielleicht warum nicht und wann Sie am besten auf die Philippinen auswandern könnten. Ich möchte Ihnen in Zukunft "zwischen den Zeilen" einige zusätzlichen Dinge berichten und erzählen. Viel Spass beim Lesen und Gute Unterhaltung!
Visitors of germanexpatinthephilippines/Besucher dieser Webseite.Ich liebe meine Flaggensammlung!
Showing posts with label Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. Show all posts
Her unique style, characterized by vibrant colors and intricate details, quickly captured the attention of art enthusiasts and collectors in Europe, allowing her to carve out a niche for herself in the international market.
Charie Vega, a talented visual and digital artist based in Manila, has successfully penetrated the international art scene, notably selling her digital paintings across Europe. The journey of her artistic career took a significant turn in 2020 when the world was gripped by the Covid-19 pandemic. As a talent manager and owner of Vega Entertainment Productions and Euro Talent Festival, Charie's professional life in the music industry was abruptly halted due to the widespread shutdowns caused by the virus.
Faced with the challenges of the pandemic, Charie turned her attention back to her art, a passion she had cherished for years. It was during this time of uncertainty that she rediscovered her creative voice and began to produce and sell her digital paintings. Her unique style, characterized by vibrant colors and intricate details, quickly captured the attention of art enthusiasts and collectors in Europe, allowing her to carve out a niche for herself in the international market.
In addition to her digital paintings, Charie is also skilled in stippling, a meticulous drawing technique that involves creating images through the use of tiny dots. This impressive method has enabled her to produce stunning works that have also found their way into the hands of collectors abroad.
Charie Vega's resilience and adaptability during a challenging time have not only allowed her to thrive as an artist but have also showcased her ability to bridge cultures through her work. As she continues to expand her reach and influence in the art world, Charie remains a shining example of how creativity can flourish even in the face of adversity.
The historic Manila Hotel recently served as the backdrop of an equally historic event, the gathering of foreign history scholars and traditional leaders of Mindanao for the 3rd Royal International Interfaith History Convention held last November 2024. Part of the ceremonies were public lectures and the launching of The Roots: Sejara Raja Raja Melayu Sejati Di Mindanao Darussalam (The History of the True Rulers of Mindanao Darussalam Negara Filipina).
BOOK DONATION Author HRH DYAM PSB Tengku Syarifah Marieta Nor-Aisha P. Mindalano-Adam H.D. (the Maharanee Permaisuri Sri Kandi Agong of Mindanao Darussalam) turns over a copy of The Roots to National Historical Commission of the Philippines librarian Diane Galang during the 3rd Royal International Interfaith History Convention held at the Manila Hotel
Authored by HRH DYAM PSB Tengku Syarifah Marieta Nor-Aisha P. Mindalano-Adam H.D. (the Maharanee Permaisuri Sri Kandi Agong of Mindanao Darussalam), the book chronicles the arrival of the early Muslim missionaries in Mindanao including the brothers Syarif Ali Maraja and Syarif Hassan, founders of the sultanates of Mindanao (Maguindanao) and Sulu, respectively.
“For more than a century, a forgotten kingdom in Mindanao had been obscured in Philippine history. Its catastrophic consequence led to the incorrect depiction of how Islam spread in pre-colonial Mindanao and the proliferation of royal claimants with questionable ancestry. Virtually unrecognized were the early missionaries and the ruler of Mindanao (Maguindanao), the Maharaja Tabunawai,” said Maharanee Permaisuri, president of Pertubuhan Bangsa Melayu Filipina (PBMF) and Pertubuhan Warisan Bangsa Melayu Filipina (PWBMF).
HAND OVER Managing editor and former The Manila Bulletin writer Ben Matias symbolically hands over a copy of the book to author HRH DYAM PSB Tengku Syarifah Marieta Nor-Aisha P. Mindalano-Adam H.D. (the Maharanee Permaisuri Sri Kandi Agong of Mindanao Darussalam) together with the Editorial Team held at the Maynila Ballroom, The Manila Hotel during the 3rd Royal International Interfaith History Convention
During the lectures, Malaysian Prof. (Tun) Suzana binti Hj Othman and Indonesian Prof. (Tun Guru) Fekri Juliansyah, PhD. affirmed that early missionaries Syarif Auliya (also known as Maulana Ibrahim Asmoroqondi in Tuban/ Karim Al-Makhdum in Sulu) and Syarif Kabungsuan were brothers to debunk the popular narrative. Their father was Sayyid Jumadil Kubro but from different mothers. The two history scholars also confirmed the genealogy of Maharaja Tabunawai and his brother Rajah Kecil Mamluk as the sons of Syarif Ali Maraja and Tengku Putri Paramisuli as published in The Roots.
The 200-page coffee-table book aims to correct the century-old misinformation about the mythical origins of Maharaja Tabunawai and his purported surrender to a newcomer missionary. It also identified the early Islamic missionaries including the brothers Syarif Ali Maraja and Syarif Hassan, the founders of the sultanates of Maguindanao and Sulu, respectively. The restored historical narrative was presented by means of genealogies, archaeological objects, and heritage sites in Nusantara countries.
Research work started in 2015 and was only completed in 2024. The book was a testament to the passion and dedication of the husband and wife team of the late HM DYMM PSB Hadji Datu Abdullah Lihondo Esmael bin Muhammad Maulana Al Qadhi Adam (the Maharaja Tabunawai VIII of Mindanao) and Maharanee Permaisuri to restore and the honor and dignity of their clan.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION OF LEADERS AWARD Dato Dr. HJ RA Huzaifah Dato Hashim, Board of Director and Chairman of Research and Special Affairs Bureau of The Malay and Islamic World Secretariat receives a medal from HRH DYAM PSB Tengku Syarifah Marieta Nor-Aisha P. Mindalano-Adam H.D. (the Maharanee Permaisuri Sri Kandi Agong of Mindanao Darussalam). He was also conferred the title of "Yang Amat Mulia Dato Sri Amar Diraja.”
Published by Roy C. Espinosa of Fil-Arts, the editorial team is composed of editor Dr. Carlos C. Tabunda Jr., managing editor (and former Manila Bulletin writer) Ben Matias, and researchers Datu Azmir Muizz V. Mindalano and Datu Sukarno Usman Budi. The Roots’ author was a former division chief of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao-Bureau of Cultural Heritage and a multi-awarded advocate of Malay heritage in the Philippines.
In celebration of National Autism Consciousness Week, SM Cares, SM Cinema, Autism Society Philippines (ASP), and GMA Pictures partnered to host a successful sensory-friendly screening of the award-winning film "Firefly" on January 17, 2025. Over 2,000 participants across 10 SM malls, including children on the autism spectrum and their families, enjoyed a heartwarming and inclusive movie experience.
"Tuwingpumapasok kami sa mga SM malls, damang-damanamin acceptance, accomodation, and appreciation. It is the norm here," said Autism Society Philippines (ASP) Chair Emerita Dang UyKoe.
A child on the autism spectrum shares a smile with their loved one during the sensory-friendly screening of "Firefly" at SM Southmall
SM Cares, SM Cinema, Autism Society Philippines, and GMA Pictures join forces to bring a sensory-friendly screening of "Firefly" to children on the autism spectrum and their families at SM North EDSA Cinema
“Firefly” stars Alessandra De Rossi (right) and EuwennMikaell (left) grace the sensory-friendly screening at SM North EDSA Cinema
Creating a welcoming space
The "Lights Up, Sounds Down" event went beyond entertainment. By adjusting lights and volume, creating a relaxed atmosphere, and allowing for movement and vocalizations, the screening catered to the specific needs of attendees on the autism spectrum. This empowered them to enjoy the movie at their own pace and comfort level.
Autism Society Philippines (ASP) National Spokesperson Mona Magno-Veluz shares a message in a video celebrating National Autism Consciousness Week
A heartwarming moment captured at the sensory-friendly screening of 'Firefly' at SM City Olongapo Central, where families enjoyed a welcoming and inclusive movie experience
"At SM Supermalls, we firmly believe that creating spaces where every individual feels valued, respected, and included is a responsibility we hold dearly. This is a way of life here," said SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs Engr. Bien Mateo.
The guests experience the magic of "Firefly" at the sensory-friendly screening in SM City Telabastagan, Pampanga
An invited guest is captivated by the sensory-friendly screening at SM City Marikina
A boy enjoys the special screening and shows respect and gratitude with a traditional 'mano po' at SM City Cebu
Ongoing commitment
Positive feedback from families echoed the event's success. Many expressed appreciation for the inclusive environment, highlighting the joy and comfort it provided. This powerful experience underscores the importance of catering to the autism community's needs.
SM Cares: Championing inclusion
A commitment to inclusivity requires ongoing effort. SM demonstrates this by investing in employee training programs to better support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Additionally, SM Cinemaprioritizes accessibility features within their theaters, creating a welcoming environment for all guests.
SM Cares is the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, with programs that support communities, promote social inclusion, and care for the environment. Aside from the program on Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Children and Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.
Life often feels like a whirlwind, pulling us in every direction except the one toward our own peace and wellbeing. To counteract this, what if we embarked on a 52-week journey—one entire year—dedicated to nurturing ourselves and rediscovering who we truly are? Let this be your roadmap: a weekly guide filled with gentle, meaningful activities that promise to make self-care and self-discovery both enjoyable and attainable.
Week 1: Write yourself a letter
Start your journey by writing a letter to yourself. Take a moment to thank yourself for your victories, big or small. Be kind about the things that didn’t go as planned, and remind yourself to keep trying. Let it be an honest and encouraging conversation with the person who knows you best—you. Reflect on your current state, recalibrate your dreams and goals, and think about what you hope to achieve in a year. Revisit your vision boards from before and start anew. Seal it and set a reminder to open it on Week 52.
Week 2: Create a morning ritual
Whether it’s five minutes of deep breathing, journaling, or sipping tea while watching the sunrise, craft a ritual that starts your day with intention. Plan this carefully and make a realistic morning routine that you can really stick to and do.
Week 3: Declutter your space
Pick a room, drawer, or closet to organize. Let go of what no longer serves you and embrace the calmness of a tidy space. Donate all decluttered items.
Week 4: Practice gratitude
Each day this week, jot down three things you’re grateful for. By the end, you’ll have a list of 21 reasons to smile.
Week 5: Explore nature
Spend time outdoors. Walk barefoot on grass, hike a trail, or simply sit under a tree. Feel the earth’s grounding energy.
Week 6: Indulge in a new hobby
Always wanted to try watercolor painting or baking sourdough bread? This week, let your curiosity lead the way.
Week 7: Unplug for a day
Go on a digital detox and engage more in personal conversation. Turn off your gadgets, and experience the liberation of being fully present in the moment. Bask in an hour of being away from your gadgets. As the week goes on, add another 15 mins until it reaches at least three hours away from the digital world.
Week 8: Cook a special meal
Treat yourself to a feast. Choose a recipe you’ve always wanted to try, and enjoy the process of creating something delicious.
Week 9: Dance like no one’s watching
Put on your favorite playlist and let your body move. Feel the joy of uninhibited expression.
Week 10: Meditate on self-love
Dedicate this week to a daily meditation practice focused on self-compassion. Repeat affirmations like, “I am enough.” Focus on your breath. When your mind wanders away, just go back again to your breath.
Week 11: Send a kind note
Write a heartfelt message to someone you appreciate. This simple act of kindness is just as uplifting for you as it is for them.
Week 12: Try something scary (but safe)
Step out of your comfort zone. It could be as simple as speaking up in a meeting or as daring as trying a zip line.
Week 13: Revisit your favorite book or movie
Sometimes, the best way to find ourselves is to lose ourselves in a story we adore.
Week 14: Start a vision board
Gather magazines, scissors, and glue. Cut out images and words that resonate with your dreams. Place it somewhere visible.
Week 15: Take a luxurious bath
Light candles, add bath salts or bubbles, and soak away stress.
Week 16: Journal your dreams
Keep a notebook by your bedside and jot down your dreams. Reflect on the symbols and themes that emerge.
Week 17: Learn about your heritage
Dive into your roots. Cook a traditional dish, learn a cultural dance, or explore family stories.
Week 18: Cultivate a green thumb
Plant a small garden, even if it’s just herbs on a windowsill. Watch as life grows under your care. Lettuce and pechay are very easy to grow in limited spaces.
Week 19: Volunteer your time
Offer your time to a cause close to your heart. Helping others often helps us rediscover our purpose.
Week 20: Declutter your mind
Declutter your digital space. Clean your emails. Then spend a week practicing mindfulness, focusing on your breath, and letting go of unnecessary mental chatter.
Week 21: Schedule a “You” Day
Take a day off to do whatever makes you happiest. It could be exploring a new city, reading in bed, or pampering yourself.
Week 22: Reconnect with an old friend
Reach out to someone you’ve lost touch with. Rekindle the warmth of your shared memories.
Week 23: Create a bucket list
Write down 10 things you’ve always wanted to do. Commit to ticking off at least half this year.
Week 24: Practice a random act of kindness
Pay for a stranger’s coffee, leave a positive note in a library book, or donate to a cause anonymously.
Week 25: Explore your creativity
Write a poem, sketch a scene, or compose a song. Let your inner artist out to play.
Week 26: Reflect on the first half
Pause to evaluate your journey so far. Celebrate the small wins and recalibrate if necessary.
Continue with fresh ideas (or restart from Week 1) for the next 26 weeks, ensuring variety and simplicity, covering themes like deepening relationships, mindfulness, creativity, self-expression, and celebrating life’s simple pleasures.
At Week 52, revisit the letter you wrote to yourself at the start of this journey. Reflect on how far you’ve come, the changes you’ve embraced, and the strength you’ve uncovered. This year-long commitment to self-care and self-discovery will remind you of life’s beauty and your innate worth.
Are you ready to begin? The first step is yours to take.
As we move forward, our commitment to advancing Philippine tourism remains steadfast. – DOT Secretary Cristina Frasco
LOVE THE PHILIPPINES Tourists enjoying the sandy beach of Sumilon Island near Oslob, Cebu (Photo from Freepik)
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco announced on Sunday, Jan. 5, that the Philippine tourism sector has firmly established its position as a vital economic pillar, achieving an all-time high tourism revenue of approximately ₱760 billion in 2024.
According to the agency's data, the Philippines garnered about ₱760.50 billion in tourism revenue from inbound tourism expenditures—representing the total amount spent by non-resident visitors—from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2024. This marks a notable increase of 9.04 percent compared to the ₱697.46 billion recorded in 2023. Moreover, the current figures surge past pre-pandemic levels, exceeding the estimated ₱600.01 billion in 2019 by an impressive 26.75 percent. This remarkable performance translates to a recovery rate of 126.75 percent for the local tourism economy, highlighting the sector's resilience and vitality.
"With these figures, it is clear that the Philippine tourism industry is not only bouncing back but also evolving and expanding, contributing significantly to the nation's economic stability and growth. In the past year, we have witnessed remarkable growth in tourism revenue, which has surpassed previous records, shares Frasco." "This achievement is not just a statistic; it translates to thousands of jobs created for Filipinos, fostering economic resilience and enabling families to thrive. The tourism sector has become a crucial engine for economic development, providing livelihood opportunities for many, especially in our rural and underserved areas.”
RECORD HEIGHTS Department of Tourism Secretary Cristina Frasco shares how 2024 saw an increase in tourism revenue which helped boost local economies
She notes how the Marcos administration’s support of the DOT has been instrumental in this achievement.
"The Marcos Administration has implemented pro-tourism policies that prioritize the sustainable development of our tourism resources while ensuring the welfare of our communities. These policies focus on enhancing infrastructure, promoting heritage conservation, and investing in skills development programs for our workforce, among others. We believe that the growth of tourism should be inclusive and equitable, empowering local entrepreneurs and communities."
"I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to everyone involved in this success—our tourism stakeholders and workers, local government units, and most importantly, our guests. As we move forward, our commitment to advancing Philippine tourism remains steadfast. We will continue to work hand-in-hand with industry stakeholders to innovate and promote the many reasons to Love the Philippines," Frasco adds.
Citing data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), Secretary Frasco revealed international tourists coming into the country spend at least $2,073 per capita. Also, compared to the average of nine nights in 2019, tourists are now staying an average of over 11 nights in the country, while 70 percent of tourists coming to the country are repeat visitors. The continued collaboration with the stakeholders from the private sector garnered about 63.18 percent repeat visitors in 2023.
