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!
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Showing posts with label Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. Show all posts
Co-presented by Chinabank and SM Supermalls for the benefit of the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs, Sining Filipina is the Philippines’ only nationwide, all-women art competition.
On March 27, 2025, ten women artists were celebrated as the best of the best at SM Aura as Sining Filipina held its awarding ceremony and opened its exhibit. Co-presented by Chinabank and SM Supermalls for the benefit of the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs, Sining Filipina is the Philippines’ only nationwide, all-women art competition.
Sining Filipina: Her Earth, Her Future winning artists pose with distinguished guests, including Sining Filipina judge Tina Colayco, Mme. Roswitha Brieger of the Austrian Embassy, Zonta Club of Makati and Environs’ President Joanne Andrada-Zapanta, Chinabank Executive Vice President and Head of the Financial Markets Segment Ollie Palanca, Mme. Endo Akiko of the Japanese Embassy, and SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. President Elizabeth Sy.
Jowee Anne Aguinaldo (4th from the left) claims first prize in this year’s Sining Filipina: Her Earth, Her Future competition. Presenting the award are (L-R): Austrian Embassy’s Mme. Roswitha Brieger, Chinabank Executive Vice President and Head of the Financial Markets Segment Ollie Palanca, Zonta Club of Makati and Environs’ President Joanne Andrada-Zapanta, Japanese Embassy’s Mme. Endo Akiko, and SM Hotels and Convention Corp. President Elizabeth Sy.
Finalists’ artworks are on display at the SM Aura Upper Ground Level Atrium until April 3, 2025.
This year, 52 finalists from across the Philippines were chosen to display their outstanding works, showcasing a wide variety of artistic styles, themes, and mediums–from traditional painting to experimental mixed media. The public is invited to explore this collection of remarkable works at the SM Aura Upper Ground Level Atrium, where the exhibit is open from March 27 to April 3, 2025.
The Sining Filipina competition not only provides a platform for artistic expression but also offers Filipino women artists a valuable opportunity for recognition and financial support. This year, winners had the chance to take home up to Php 250,000 in cash prizes and gain recognition from the nation's leading art connoisseurs.
Wencyl Mallari (center) receives a special award for donating the full value of her paintings for two years in a row to the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs’ charitable endeavors.
Sining Filipina: Her Earth, Her Future champion Jowee Anne Aguinaldo wins Php 250,000 in cash and a custom trophy for her painting titled “Panagtagpi-tagpi.”
Geanne Gentizon from Guimaras Island wins second place with her painting titled “Si Nanay sa Merkado,” taking home Php 150,000 in cash and a custom Sining Filipina trophy.
“Pinagtagpi-tagpi” by 3rd placer Shara Chan is an ode to women’s roles in sustainability efforts across the Philippines.
4th placer Ma. Jezsheel Asares with her painting “Bayan ni Juana.” 5th placer Sunshine Vitto wins Php 50,000 and a Sining Filipina trophy for her artwork “Salamin ng Kahapon.”
As the exhibit continues at SM Aura, visitors can experience the powerful narratives and emotions conveyed through the artworks, as well as witness the immense talent shaping the future of Philippine art.
Congratulations to all the finalists and winners of Sining Filipina: Her Earth, Her Future, whose work continues to inspire and showcase the limitless potential of women in the arts!
For more information on SM Supermalls’ activities empowering women and the arts, follow @SMSupermalls on all social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com.
The orchid family is the largest group of flowering plants and boasts some of the most spectacular and showy blooms in the world. Their beauty has captivated people since prehistoric times. There is a certain je ne sais quoi—a French phrase for something indescribable—about these plants that has “lured” them to their demise. Oh wait, not people, silly—the orchids.
Orchids evoke a sense of rarity and exoticism. Known to originate from faraway tropical jungles and misty forests, they often carry mesmerizing stories, making them truly special. Fortunately, thanks to the efforts of orchid breeders, they have been extensively propagated and are now widely available for us to enjoy.
They come in a dazzling array of colors and sizes. You may acquire the show-stopping Cattleya or the elegantly flowering Phalaenopsis—both breathtaking blooms that make a lasting impression. A truly special gift, an orchid is something your loved one will remember for years. They are also easy to care for and can rebloom with proper maintenance.
Unfortunately, many people are lured into buying orchids, only to unintentionally kill them—repeating the cycle again and again. Countless orchid plants have perished simply because their owners don’t know how to properly care for them.
To break this deadly cycle, the Philippine Orchid Society is hosting An Orchid Extravaganza at Robinsons Magnolia—a 10-day orchid show running until March 30, 2025. The event showcases various orchid hybrids and species and features a series of lectures on orchid care. These talks aim to “rehabilitate” serial orchid killers (and prevent future ones) by improving their understanding of orchid cultivation and reducing the chances of their next orchid meeting an untimely end.
This is a much better alternative than sending orchid killers to jail.
The event also includes several commercial booths offering orchids, ornamental plants, and gardening supplies.
For more details, follow the Philippine Orchid Society's official Facebook page.
The highly-anticipated Summer Komikon 2025 is set to take place on March 15, 2025, at the Bayanihan Center, Unilab Compound, Pasig City, from 10 AM to 8 PM. This year's event promises to be an exciting celebration of comics, creativity, and community.
In honor of Women's Month, Summer Komikon 2025 will feature special guests who are independent female comics creators. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet and greet Chocnut-San (I Ship Everyone Except for Me?!), Mitzi Bajet (The Nowhere Tree, Karnaval), Hans Dimapilis (Baby Butterfly, On Being Quiet), and Steph Bravo (FullHouse).
An informative talk on the Do’s and Don’ts of Portfolio Submissions will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM in Conference Room F. The Next Comic Art Crew will share their expertise, including insights from experienced international homegrown artists Harvey Tolibao (Marvel, DC, IDW, DarkHorse, Valiant, Zenescope) and Roi Mercado (G.I. Joe and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Armageddon Game - The Alliance), with Jiggy Cruz (Next Comic Art). Limited seats are available for this exclusive session.
Visitors can also discover hidden gems and support local artists as they showcase their work and latest releases. Renowned artists Jonathan Lau, Jomar Bulda, Jerico Marte, and Don Tantiado will be available at the KomiksKalye for live sketching and signing sessions, offering a unique opportunity for fans to have their comics signed and sketches drawn.
Interactive activities will abound, including exciting contests, game demos, and art jams, ensuring a fun-filled day for attendees of all ages.
Tickets for Summer Komikon 2025 are available at the venue on arrival. A 1-Day Ticket is priced at ₱150 and includes a P100 Comic Odyssey voucher that can be used to purchase selected items from the Comic Odyssey table. Special rates of ₱100 are available for Senior High Students, Senior Citizens, PWDs with valid IDs, and Komikon Shirt Wearers. Additionally, children below ticket table height will enjoy free entry.
The event is proudly sponsored by Comic Odyssey, National Book Store, The MANILA BULLETIN, Quantum Amusement Corporation, Famous Amos Philippines, Kwentoon, Kartuns at Komiks Cafe, Coffee and Comics, JAM 88.3, and student organization UP GRAIL - Graphic Arts in Literature.
For more details, please visit Summer Komikon 2025 on Facebook or email inquiry@komikon.org.
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.
