Local holidays

by Senator Francis Tolentino

‘TOL VIEWS

Senator Francis Tolentino

Many studies have actually proven that travel, leisure and recreation is a vital human activity that is not only beneficial to human health and wellness but is likewise essential to establishing a vibrant and sustainable economy.  The restrictions on people’s mobility during the pandemic, keeping them locked down inside their homes, impinged greatly on the people’s physical and mental health. Vaccines and boosters have indeed done well to increase physical immunity.  Leisure and travel, on the other hand, are viewed as antidotes to the mental impacts resulting from the Covid-19 virus.

Local holidays open opportunities for people to travel, relax, and enjoy time with family, friends and loved ones.  These occasional breaks from the usual daily work schedule of people are often happily anticipated for the respite they bring, no matter how short or temporary these breathers may be.  Vacation and travel create a chain reaction which impact domestic tourism and local economy.  Last year, revenues derived from tourism were at ₱208.96 billion. Similarly, tourism-related jobs were recorded approximately at 5.23 million in 2022.  With Covid-19 now endemic, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is positive that all tourism related statistics – from arrivals to expenditures – will exceed even pre-pandemic heights in 2023. 

People travel for many reasons, but the most common remains to be for leisure and relaxation, and these travels often happen on long-weekends resulting from local holidays.  People spend a great deal of time, energy and money just to ensure that travel opportunities tagged along by either our regular or special non-working holidays are maximized.  Holiday tourism has indeed given local tourism and local economy its much needed boost.  Tourism remains a vital economic engine for the country.  Hence, in order to ensure a sustained recovery in the aftermath of Covid-19, the Philippine tourism industry shall have to remain a primary focus in the national blueprint for economic sustainability.

House leader eyes $25 entry tax on foreign tourists

Published February 9, 2023, 9:23 AM

by Ellson Quismorio, MB

A $25 entry tax on foreign visitors to the Philippines that would be set aside and used to improve tourist welfare services.

Boracay, arguably the crown jewel of Philippine tourism. (RJ Baculo/ Unsplash)

That, in a nutshell, is the proposal of Camarines Sur 2nd district Rep. LRay Villafuerte, as contained in House Bill (HB) No.5285.

“Tourism has been a growing force in the Philippine economy. The industry has contributed a total of P2.85 trillion to the local economy in 2016, almost 20 percent of our GDP (gross domestic product,” said the veteran solon, whose province was at one time declared by the Department of Tourism (DOT) as the country’s top destination on his watch as governor.

“In 2017, the DOT recorded over 6.6 million tourist arrivals, posting an 11 percent growth from the previous year. The industry performed well in 2018 and 2019 with a respective rise of 16 percent and 17 percent in tourist arrivals, but the momentum was disrupted the following year with the advent of Covid-19,” he said.

Under the proposed Tourist Welfare Tax Law, $25 will be collected from every foreigner visiting the Philippines for tourism and leisure, and staying here for a period of not more 60 days, This levy shall be tucked in the cost of his or her airline ticket.

“This tourist tax shall be reflected in official receipts (ORs) issued by international and domestic carriers, and which shall then be handed over to the ]DOT] for the development of tourist welfare services, improvement of TIEZA’s (Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority) services in tourism infrastructure, and for upgrading the programs of LGU (local government unit) tourism offices in their respective localities,” read the Villafuerte bill.

Villafuerte, president of the National Unity Party (NUP), said the fixed rate of $25 is “proposed to be competitive with that of the current taxes other countries have set. “This is mainly based on the average rates of entry and exit taxes imposed by Asian countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Hong Kong and China.”

He explained that the collection of entry and exit taxes has been imposed by other countries on visiting foreign nationals in order to boost their respective tourism development funds.

HB No.5285 recognizes Philippine tourism as “an indispensable element of the national economy and an industry of national interest and importance, which must be harnessed as an engine of socioeconomic growth and cultural affirmation to generate investment, foreign exchange and employment, and to continue to mold an enhanced sense of national pride for all Filipinos.”

The bill also includes a tax refund option for tourists erroneously charged as well as for those who have each spent over $10,000 or its peso equivalent in tourism receipts during their stay in the Philippines.

The measure is currently pending with the House Committee on Ways and Means.

TURKEY-SYRIA AND THE FILIPINO HEART

ReniMV Valenzuela

No person or nation is too poor to be unable to help others in times
of great need.

It is refreshing that our government immediately sent help to Turkey
and Syria as both nations were jolted by 7.8 magnitude temblor,
notwithstanding our own nation being battered by problems/issues left
and right like never before - from onion, inflation, corruption to
China invasion. Proverbs 11:25.

Do we often/usually do this as a country? Nope. What is common is our
nation being a recipient of compassion and all types of help and
assistance from other governments when natural calamities and
catastrophes hit our land.

President Bongbong Marcos was prompt in his action as he appears
genuine, having a heart for the victims of the massive earthquake that
caused and tallied 12,000 confirmed deaths as of this writing. BBM is
showing some signs that he's different from most of his predecessors
in this aspect and in some other areas that he can be lauded (thus
far), much less in his seemingly openness/receptivity to criticisms.

Kudos.

renivalenzuelaletters@yahoo.com

MOVIEGOER: Nora survives health issues, stars in new film, writes book

Published February 9, 2023, 8:00 AM

by Nestor Cuartero, MB

Nora Aunor

Reports of Nora Aunor’s failing health took a backseat when she gamely faced media Feb. 4 to announce she was making another screen comeback, her nth.

The superstar and National Artist admitted she had not been feeling well in recent past. She has breathing problems. She gets tired easily. She checks in regularly in hospital.

For a moment, Nora said she had thought that with her condition, she could no longer make another film. She also said she was ready to retire, yet it seems the industry won’t allow her.  

That afternoon at Victorino’s in Quezon City, however, the superstar was pure energy, hale and hearty. Being with right company, the media included, she said, fueled her enthusiasm.

“I’m feeling so much better now as I talk to all of you. Bahala na how I will feel later when all this shall be over,” she made light of her state of health.

So, why did she decide to make another film considering her condition?

Nora said acting is her calling. She’s inspired to do more films when she watches other actors engaging in the craft that she has embraced and mastered through the years. 

She said she couldn’t refuse the offer by QC Councilor Alfred Vargas, who personally came to see her at home to make a pitch. In Alfred’s words, umakyat siya ng ligaw sa superstar for his own Alternative Vision Cinema.

The film’s premise and promise seemed sound. The project immediately appealed to her, she said. And it was to be directed by someone she has known well, Adolfo Alix Jr., who has directed two of her recent films, “Padre de Pamilya” and “Kontrabida.”

Alfred Vargas, Nora Aunor, Gina Alajar and director Adolfo Alix Jr.

xxx

In Pieta, Nora plays mother to Alfred, an ex- convict accused of having murdered his father. Her character is half-blind in her old age. She is also on the threshold of dementia. “Pieta” is Nora’s first movie after having been named National Artist in 2022.

Alfred said Nora is his personal choice for the film, reflecting the sentiment of every other Filipino actor, he said, whose one big dream is to make a film with the superstar.

Nora, on the other hand, found the councilor and former congressman quite humble, easy to talk to. “I found him quite intelligent and understanding. I am happy that being a councilor, he easily understands the plight of other people.” 

Pieta also stars Gina Alajar, Nora’s kumare and former director in the hit GMA series, “Onanay.”

The two best actresses previously acted together in five other films: My Little Brown Girl, Condemned, Bulaklak ng City Jail, Tatlong Ina, Isang Anak, Andrea.

Alfred Vargas, Nora Aunor and Gina Alajar

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In the same Pieta event:

Nora also announced that the first tell-all book about her life will be published this year. Co-written by Adolfo Alix, it is being written in her own words for purposes of authenticity. That’s how Nora likes it told.

“Walang bawal-bawal, lahat pinagkukuwentuhan namin. Basta lahat, galing sa kanya,” said Alix.

Through the book, Nora wants to share her life experiences with the public, especially young people, so they may learn a thing or two on her life lessons.

Alfred is publishing the book, designed to be a series of no-holds barred confessions.

Gina Alajar spoke eloquently about Nora’s humility, a trait that hasn’t diminished through the years and despite her status.

“She’s not the type who will make her presence big on the set, like a diva. If she has something to settle with you, she talks to you privately.”

Int’l cruise ships due in Boracay this year

by Tara Yap, MB 

A FOREIGN tourist relaxes in a secluded beach resort in Boracay Island with international cruise ship, MS World Dream, in the background in this photo taken in January 2018. (Tara Yap)

ILOILO CITY – Several international cruise ships are set to dock in world-famous Boracay Island this year.

The Department of Tourism-Region 6 (Western Visayas) has released an initial list of these ships confirmed to stop in the country’s most popular beach destination.

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The first will be MS Seabourne Encore on Feb. 13. At least 600 tourists are expected to explore the resort-island for eight hours.

The second will be MS Nautica on March 6.

MS Westerdam of Holland America is scheduled for two visits on March 3 and Nov. 7. MV Norwegian Jewel is set to visit thrice this year – on Nov. 3 and 29 and Dec. 1.

Others visiting are MS Seven Seas Mariner on March 8, Star Breeze on Nov. 6, and MV Seven Seas Explorer on Nov. 17.

Tourists from these liners are given eight hours maximum to explore the white-sand beach, the secluded Puka Beach, souvenir shops, and restaurants. 

AMA Group partners with Broadway powerhouses to bring ‘The Sound of Music’ to life in Manila

Published February 8, 2023, 7:14 AM

by Manila Bulletin Entertainment

Jill-Christine Wiley as Maria and the von Trapp children. Photo by Matthew Murphy

The AMA Group of Companies is thrilled to announce their role as co-presenter of the classic Broadway musical, “The Sound of Music.”

With the whole cast coming to perform live in Manila, this timeless production, written by Rodgers & Hammerstein and based on the book by Lindsay & Crouse, will bring its enchanting story and memorable songs to life at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati from March 7 to 26.

Get ready to be swept away by the timeless music, heartwarming story, and unforgettable experience of this beloved classic. 

Step into the world of “The Sound of Music” and witness the heartwarming story of Maria, a young governess, who brings music and love to the von Trapp family.

The show features beloved songs like “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” and the iconic title song, “The Sound of Music.”

This event is a perfect fit for AMA Group’s mission to promote lifelong learning among its employees, alumni, and students.

Don’t miss your chance to be swept away by the show’s timeless music, enchanting story and unforgettable experience. Book your tickets now at Ticketworld and be a part of this iconic Broadway production live in Manila. 

This production is presented by Broadway International Group, Broadway Asia Group, GMG Productions and the AMA Group of companies.

Book your tickets now thru Ticketworld – Link: https://bit.ly/amatsom

Setting our heart right

By Fr. Roy Cimagala *

HOW important to really set our heart right! And that’s because the heart in the end is where the true condition of our life can be found. Are we good or not so good? Are we properly focused or are we already going astray? These questions can be answered if we know the real condition of our heart.

We can base these assertions on what Christ said about our heart. For example, he said, “But what comes out of the man, that is what defiles him. From within the man, from his HEART, come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly. All these evils come from within and they defile.” (Mk 7,20-23)

Reiterating the same idea, he also said: “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” (Lk 6,45)

We should never forget that the heart is not self-generated. It is a creature, a creature of God who wants it to be like his, his image and likeness. It is meant to be vitally united with God who is its very life, its very power and all. Without God, the heart at least malfunctions, if not dies.

We have to see to it that our heart is anchored on God through Christ in the Holy Spirit. He is the very source of our being, of our life. We are meant to be with him, though we can choose to stray from him due to the misuse of our freedom. That is why God always begs us, “My child, give me your heart, and let your eyes delight in my ways.” (Prov 23,26)

Everyday, we have to see to it that indeed our heart is anchored on God. We should never let it float in any way. We have to see to it that our heart increasingly gets united to God until it is fully identified with him.

We need to conquer our heart to channel the very heart of Christ who is the pattern of our humanity. How important therefore that we learn to engage the heart with the right treasure, the ultimately genuine one, the one that lasts forever, and not the many pseudo-treasures that the world offers. 

This, of course, requires some effort, and even gargantuan effort, because the human heart is actually very difficult to read, let alone manage. It can be tricky and very slippery to handle. St. Augustine’s words can come in handy here: 

“Man is a great deep, Lord.” he said. “You number his very hairs and they are not lost in your sight. But the hairs of his head are easier to number than his affections and the movements of his heart.”

How true! One of the big challenges of our life is to know how to read our heart, that is to say, to know who and how we really are at every step of our life. Oftentimes, our self-knowledge is far off the mark. We are usually affected by all kinds of conditionings, such that our self-knowledge is more subjective than objective.

Obviously to get a handle on our heart, we need to go to God. Our human estimations can never be enough. They can even be dangerous, since they are often very limited and, worse, biased. We have to be wary of the powerful pull these worldly and human estimations can exert on us.

* Chaplain Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE), Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

Who’s who: Binibining Pilipinas Class of 2023 Official Top 40

By

 Catalina Ricci S. Madarang

 -

 

Photos of BBP 2023 contenders Trisha Martinez, Atasha Reign Parani, Rheema Adakkoden, Mirjan Hipolito posted on February 6, 2023 (bbpilipinasofficial/Facebook)

Former pageant title holders and other familiar faces joined the lineup of candidates for this year’s edition of one of the most prestigious national pageants in the country.

Binibining Pilipinas (BBP) on Monday unveiled the official names and photos of the candidates who passed the final screening and advanced to the Top 40 of the pageant.

The  Class of 2023 Top 40 reveal came a month after the organization opened its applications for aspiring beauty queens in the country. 

Details about the coronation night are yet to be revealed.

Several Filipinos, meanwhile, noticed familiar names and faces on BBP’s posts. They expressed their support for their favorites in the comments section.

Former beauty queens in the list are as follows:

• Mirjan Hipolito – She represented Pampanga at the Miss Universe Philippines 2021. She made headlines for receiving a brand-new iPhone as a token of good luck from her team.

RELATED: How Angeles’ bet Mirjan Hipolito’s team is giving her support for Miss Universe Philippines journey

• Trisha Martinez – She was crowned Miss Tourism Philippines 2021 at the Miss World Philippines event during that year.
• Julia Mae Mendoza – She was a contestant at the Miss World Philippines 2019.
• Zeah Nestle Pala – She was crowned Miss Bikini Philippines 2021.

The following, meanwhile, are names of notable celebrities and personalities who are now BBP candidates:

• Xena Ramos – She is a newbie actress under Viva Artists.
• Atasha Reign Parani – She was a former cast member or “housemate” at the “Pinoy Big Brother” Season 8.
• Mary Joy Dacoron – She is a professional volleyball player under Chery Tiggo.

Actress Maja Salvador’s sister, Jessilen Salvador or Jessie is also among the roster of candidates.

Based on traction, the most popular candidate is Rheema Adakkoden, a Filipino-Indian model from Bicol. Her photo has so far garnered 17,000 reactions, 300 comments and 1,200 likes on the platform.

BBP crowns the country’s representatives for the following international beauty competitions—Miss International, Miss Intercontinental and Miss Globe.

The organization previously fields delegates to Miss Grand International and Miss Supranational.

Franchises for both events were later acquired by the Miss World Philippines organization.

RELATED: ‘Great move’: Binibining Pilipinas lauded for cutting ties with Miss Grand International 

Those who will win on BBP 2023 coronation night will succeed the following reigning queens:

• Binibining Pilipinas International 2022 Nicole Borromeo
• Binibining Pilipinas Grand International 2022 Roberta Angela Tamondong
• Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2022 Gabrielle Basiano
• Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2022 Chelsea Fernandez

It should be noted that Nicole has yet to compete at Miss International 2023.

Her successor is Hannah Arnold, who ended her journey after advancing to the Top 15 of Miss International 2022.

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In this video, you'll see the top 10 places to visit in the Philippines. From the diverse cultures to the amazing sights, you'll want to stay in the Philippines forever! Make sure to watch the video until the end to find out all of the amazing things this country has in store. ❓ About Us ❓ Here at CenTravel we'll serve as your travel guide showing you the best tips on where to travel in 2023, the ins and outs of the tourism industry, vacation recommendations, different options for international travel, trip planning and much more! We're always up to date on the top travel trends and news surrounding global tourism so be sure to stay tuned for more insights on what could be your next vacation!

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You won’t miss your water, until the well runs dry

by Manila Bulletin

Water is not something we “value” on a daily basis unless we turn on the faucet and nothing drops out of it. Suddenly, we realize that having no water is not only inconvenient, but also life threatening. All our lives, water is abundant and we use it without limitations; but what if one day we wake up and find out that water is sold like gold, or rationed by the liter per household — or worse, that the well has already dried up?

These are not impossible scenarios as water is a finite resource. It doesn’t flow forever and based on scientific studies, water supply is getting lower by the year. It is inevitable in the future that nations would battle for this precious resource and we would just stand in regret for not saving water as early as today. Before it’s too late, we must do something not only to conserve it, but also to make sure that the next generation will have access to clean water.

Perhaps this is also the reason why the Marcos administration recently approved the creation of a Water Resource Management Office (WRMO) to “manage the country’s water resources” through a concerted government effort engaging various sectors, and “respond to the environmental changes.” 

The WRMO, which will be under the DENR, will be a transitory body pending the creation of a Water Resources Department. Its main functions include “formulating and ensuring the implementation of the Integrated Water Management Plan (IWMP), which will integrate various plans of different agencies.”
The WRMO will also be tasked to champion, together with the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office (PLLO), the passage of a law creating an apex body; collaborate closely with all relevant agencies, including LGUs, private sector, civil society, and the communities.

The President, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), said that the WRMO’s first action is to “reduce the country’s reliance on groundwater and deep wells, and managing surface water supply.”

“As far as I could tell, there’s enough water in the Philippines, but we’re just wasting it away,” the President was quoted as saying, noting that there is “mismanagement” of our country’s water supply.
The move of the President has gained support from Congress. For one, Senator Grace Poe has said that the WRMO’s creation is a “clear signal that a Department of Water Resources (DWR) needs to be established as soon as possible.”

“We expect that the formation of WMRO will pave the way for the establishment of a DWR that we have been advocating in the Senate,” the chair of the Senate Committee on Public Services said. “The specter of water scarcity has always haunted us amid rising demand, climate change, population growth, among other factors, that necessitate immediate and comprehensive government response.” 

It should be noted that the creation of a DWR is among the priority bills cited by the President in his State of the Nation Address. Currently, the measure is being discussed at the committee level in both houses.
Any effort by the government to save this precious resource must be supported. Water is crucial not only to our lives but to food security, economic survival, and agriculture growth. Indeed, water is life, so let’s not wait for an empty well before taking action because that time may already be too late.