MY FATHER: WHY I DID NOT TAKE UP LAW IN COLLEGE?

A Father's Day Reflection  

By ReniMV Valenzuela

He took up Bachelor of Law, but ended up disillusioned, even as a bright student, for a reason/s unknown to me. This was my father. What follows are great, personal learnings from him (R.I.P. in Libingan ng Mga Bayani) which I would cherish till next life.

My father would fondly introduce me to anyone as "grandmaster" from the time I was accorded the title by winning the grand prize in a nationwide, telecast on-the-spot painting contest for students at the age of fourteen. He had big dreams for me. I miss Dad. 

Daddy was open for me to take up any course in college except Bachelor of Law.  I then did not understand why, though he was far from forcing his wishes on me. But many years had passed and I realized he was right and I was wrong. Fathers are meant to guide their children, young or old. 

Due to the not so pleasant reputation of lawyers, a joke about them is circulating in social media. The jest proposes that lawyers will not be accepted neither in heaven nor hell not because they are too good or too bad, but because they have no soul. But that's just a joke, a joke though that elicits soul-searching among the concerned group of people. In fairness, I know of a lawyer who is not only a good person. He has a soul too, I discovered. 

Pero papaano nga naman masasabing may kaluluwa ang mga abogado at husgado na kayang maatim at tiisin na mabulok sa kulungan ang mga inosente nang dahil sa kanilang kagagawan (o kaalaman sa "batas") at biktima lamang ang mga ito ng kawalan ng katarungan sa bansa? 

A case in point is the 85 year-old lola (grandmother) I interviewed who has been languishing in jail for several years simply because a drug pusher made her a "courier" of a small paper bag that contained shabu without her knowledge. "Dura lex sed lex" (the law may be harsh but it is the law). Diabolic!

Several similar situations like this (with different cases) in prison camps, notably the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) where I preached Christ and ministered longer to the inmates, for nineteen years. Oddly, the guilty and real bad people, big people (well-connected/protected and well-entrenched) are out there, even in the halls of power, roaming/roaring around circles freely - swaggering and enjoying life, lavishing on their loots/spoils. Moronic!

With so many unwise, cruel and unjust laws and official "skewness" in the land, we need lawyers, judges and justices who have souls; those who don't only interpret the law but administer discretion as well and bring to bear wisdom, chastity, compassion and the Sovereign in their works/profession. 

Heart, reason and conscience that lie beneath every law are what unearth truth and open the eyes of the blind to adjudge cases correctly, fairly, justly. Proverbs 28:5, Psalms 37:27-29, Proverbs 21:15, Isaiah 61:8, Isaiah 30:18-19, Psalm 82:3, Micah 6:8, Amos 5:24. Wake up!

A land may not have laws to govern it but if its inhabitants have heart, reason and conscience, that land may still experience peace and order and could well achieve progress for its citizenry. 

Contrarily, a country may be overflowing with laws (like the Philippines), but if its people, much less its leaders (executive officials, lawmakers, magistrates, police, military, etc.), are tricksters and rogues, that country will ever be besieged by troubles of every sort and be/remain impoverished (in physical and/or spirit), even plunged into chaos/bottomless pit/everlasting darkness. "Sobs and gnashing of teeth."

The reason why I did not take up law in college, aside from the advice of my father, was because I shudder losing my soul from the moment I pass the bar, not to mention the possibility of me as a law student getting lured into entering a senseless fraternity organization, barbarous as it could be and soulless as it could have transformed me to be. 

Finally, and true enough, from all indications and with what has been happening in the country, given the deluge of lawyers (notwithstanding or despicably) in our government who occupy positions of power, it is not surprising that, after all, I made the right decision. 

Thank God. And Thank You Dad.

PS

My father had impacted my life, so much so that I get teary-eyed each time I remember him.  Happy Father's Day! 

renivalenzuelaletters@yahoo.com

DdO’s Technological Demonstration Farm harvests 800kls of Bangus and Tilapia

Davao de Oro --- After four to six months, more than 800 kilos of Polyculture Bangus and Molobicus Red Tilapia were harvested on June 6, 2023, during the one-time harvest festival of the province’s Technological Development Farm located at P-2, Barangay Tibagon, Pantukan, Davao de Oro. 

Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Jaime D. Anter said that the farm is a research proposal that intends to discover new technology for the fisherfolks in the province by demonstrating the use of Polyculture on bangus and saline tilapia. 

“Pagmahuman na ang process sa evaluation, the data will tell us if this project proposal will be a recommendatory para mahimong adopted sa atoang lugar particularly sa tanan areas near in shorelines”, Dr. Anter said. 

He added that they choose tilapia because of marketability while its Polyculture improves feed utilization, enhances water quality, and increases total yield and profit. 

Governor Dorothy Montejo-Gonzaga lauded the success of the project resulting in P104K pesos worth of proceeds. She looks forward that with the help of the aforesaid project, more livelihood opportunities will be given to the people not only in Pantukan but also to the entire province. 

“Kung mo ingon man gud ta ug harvest buot pasabot positive na, kami sa probinsyal nga panggamhanan positbong naningkamot nga matabangan nga mo asenso ang kinabuhi sa mga katawhan sa Davao de Oro pinaagi sa mga programa sa gobyerno”, Gov Gonzaga in her message. 

Present during the activity were BFAR XI Regional Director Raul C. Millana, Mayor Leonel “Jhong” Ceniza, Municipal Agriculturist Alfredo A. Sasutana, and Barangay Officials. (Rheafe Hortizano, Provincial Information Officer, Photos by Jay-Ar Naval)

𝐃𝐝𝐎’𝐬 𝐏𝐇 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐨𝐦 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞

 

𝐃𝐝𝐎’𝐬 𝐏𝐇 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐨𝐦 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞

𝐍𝐚𝐛𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐧, 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐨 𝐝𝐞 𝐎𝐫𝐨—In celebration of the 125th Independence Day and nationhood of the country, the Provincial Government of Davao de Oro, together with the security sectors and other partner agencies, called for unity to sustain gains of peace and continued positive social change in the province.

The call to action took place at the Provincial Capitol in Nabunturan town during the ceremonial activity on Monday, June 12, 2023, which also marked the country's commemoration of freedom from Spain as it was declared in former/first President Emilio Aguinaldo’s home in Kawit, Cavite, on June 12, 1898.

With this year’s theme "Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan", the celebration commenced with a reading of the history of Philippine Independence, followed by an entrance of colors, flag hoisting, and singing of the national anthem, signifying the rise of the nation from 333 years of oppression.

In her solidarity message, Joy James "Ka Amihan" Sagino, a rescued friend (FR), thanked the government for their joint efforts to combat insurgency. She urged unity to achieve genuine peace, progress, and development among the communities.

"Today is not only a celebration of our hard-earned independence but also a day of a call to action… our collective responsibility to build a society where Filipinos thrive and succeed. Let us not be fined by the conflicts of our past but let us be driven by the boldness to dream of a better future," Amihan said.

Amihan also reminded leaders of the government to remain steadfast in their commitment to prioritize the needs of the marginalized, the forgotten, and the voiceless.

“May our actions be a testament to our enduring love for our motherland as we work tirelessly to create a country that shines as a beacon of hope for the world.. mabunay ang pilipinas!” Amihan added.

Governor Dorothy Montejo-Gonzaga led the flower offering or entry of the wreath right after the rendition of “Bayan ko” and community singing of “Ako ay Pilipino”. Acting Provincial Fire Marshall Donald Conception represented by Compostela Fire Marshal Patricio Brañanola Jr, Provincial Police Officer Benedicto Faco, and 1001st Brigade Commander Ronnie Babac escorted her during the offering.

“Let’s take the challenge to be the voice of the voiceless and our marginalized sectors, ato na kanunay ipahinumdom sa atong mga pubic officials, employees ug lakip na atong mga atong kapulisan ug kasundaluhan, atong dawatun ang hagit ni Ka Amihan” stressed Governor Gonzaga in her message.

Governor Gonzaga reiterated the significance of the whole-of-nation approach as a driver of positive change in the province. She encouraged everyone to work together and make the people feel that the government truly works.

“We should give more meaning to how and what is to be free or to be independent. Manghinaot ko nga magsiga atong mga mata, maminanaw atong mga dalunggan ug bation nato ang mas labaw nga panginahanglan sa atong katawhan” Governor Gonzaga added.

Following the wreath-laying ceremony, the Philippine military fired a 21-gun salute in honor of the national flag and the fallen heroes who fought for the country's independence.

Major General Jose Eriel Niembra, 10th Infantry (Agila) Division Commander, underscored in his message said that the security sector is committed to its duty of serving and protecting the beloved country.

“Rest assured that the Agila troopers will continue to embody the values of honor, patriotism, and duty… but remember that independence is not solely the responsibility of the military alone, it is a shared responsibility among Filipinos,” said Niembra.

Further, selected PNP officers demonstrated their unit’s unity through a fancy drill or a display of rifle drill executions. A viewing of the static display and kalayaan exhibit was held at the Capitol lobby right after the drill.

Under Republic Act No. 4166 of 1964, every year's twelfth day of June is declared Philippine Independence Day, and all Filipinos are prompted to observe it with appropriate rites. (Jaynus Fernandez, Provincial Information Office, Photos by Albert Dayao)

Provincial Administrator’s Office – Information and Public Relations Division

4th Floor, Executive Building, Provincial Capitol Complex, Cabidianan, Nabunturan, Davao de Oro

Press Briefing: Typhoon "#ChedengPH" {Guchol} Update Friday 11AM

Press Briefing: Typhoon "#ChedengPH" {Guchol} Update Friday 11AM | June 9, 2023 DOST-PAGASA Weather Specialist: Ana Clauren-Jorda #WeatherReport #DOSTPagasa #ChedengPH

Pinangat Festival in Albay postponed due to restive Mayon Volcano

BY NIÑO LUCES

Jun 9, 2023 08:28 AM

  

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LEGAZPI CITY, Albay – The return of the Pinangat Festival in Camalig, this province, on Saturday, June 10, has been postponed due to restive Mayon Volcano.

MAYON Volcano (Mayor Caloy Baldo FB)

Mayor Caloy Baldo on Thursday, June 8, said the festivity – halted by the pandemic for three years – was moved to a later date as the local government will focus on the safety of residents.

“As Mayor of Camalig, Albay, I understand the importance of the Pinangat Festival in celebrating our beloved town's distinct and rich culture and heritage,” Baldo said.

However, my main responsibility is to ensure the safety and welfare of my constituents, and after various discussions with our local councils and heads, I now firmly believe that postponing the Pinangat Festival (except religious activities) is the best and practical course of action under the current circumstances, he added.

Baldo said that the geographical location of Camalig is always a cause of concern due to its proximity to the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone.

Based on latest Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (APSEMO) data, 2,122 or 7,827 individuals need to be evacuated from the PDZ in Camalig.

Affected barangays are Anoling with 397 families, Quirangay with 929 families, Sua with 423 families, and Tumpa with 395 families.

“Let me reiterate that the safety of the Camaligueños will always be my top priority. With the threat of a volcanic eruption looming, it would be irresponsible to proceed with the Pinangat Festival as scheduled,” Baldo said.

“Camalig and other neighboring areas have seen and felt Mayon's wrath, which would definitely rub more salt to the wound if an eruption happens during the festival. From the immediate danger of lava flows, lahar, ash and rockfall episodes, and other toxic materials, its impacts are deemed very troubling," Baldo added.

Pinangat Festival was slated to be celebrated until June 24, the feast of Saint John the Baptist.

Highlight of the festival is longest line of pinangat eating.

"Please know that your lives are more valuable than any activity or any festival. In light of these concerns, I have officially made the difficult decision to postpone the Pinangat Festival to a later date this year. I understand that this decision is disappointing to many, but allow me to assure you that it is not taken lightly. I want to thank you all for bearing with us in this challenging time. Pinangat Festival is a very important event in our town, and I believe that we will come together again to celebrate it even more happily and care-free once the danger has passed," Baldo said.

Department of Tourism (DOT)-Bicol Director Herbie Aguas has issued an advisory that all tourism activities inside the PDZ are strictly prohibited.

"The public and tourism stakeholders are reminded to avoid entering the six-kilometer PDZ due to the threat of sudden steam-driven and phreatic eruptions. In addition, tourism activities at Mayon Skyline are already prohibited," Aguas said.

According to the Albay provincial government website, pinangat is a version of “laing,” a famous native chili-hot dish of Camalig which is a blend of ground pork, coconut milk, diced shrimps, and chili wrapped in gabi leaves.

It added that this dish is well-known among Bicolanos because of its distinctive taste that a Bicolano could perfect. 

How to style your barong

The national attire for men, just like the terno, is getting a makeover

BY AARON CABEZA

  

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Gideon Hermosa

There’s a big dinner on June 12, Independence Day, and the dress code says “Creative Formal.” Although this phrase has been going around since 2015, it is still a bit of a conundrum every time it comes up on dinner invitations, especially to weddings.

The operative word is “formal,” which means jacket or, here in the Philippines, a barong Tagalog or long dresses for the women. To the purist, it is interchangeable with “Creative Black Tie,” which means tuxedo, but with allowances for flashes of whimsy, say, an orange bow tie, bright-colored shirt studs, or bright neon cufflinks.  But the purists are getting too old—and are finding it too tiresome—to keep checking whether or not the gentleman out there is keeping the bottom button of his single-breasted, three-button suit undone.

Marco Lobregat

On the homefront, the barongs, like the terno, are having a field day defying the rules, which kept them for a long time in the bottom of the baul or at the very back of the aparador, pulled out only for barrio fiestas, costume parties, or school activities like “Linggo ng Wika.” Now we are seeing it work on every occasion, and they’re looking more and more fun and fab—and stylish.

Kultura has of late expanded its collection of barong Tagalog and these modern-day gentlemen wear them in the style of the day, that is to say, anyway you like it, for any occasion, and everywhere. Here’s how you can play with your barong and imbue it with your own personality.

Jiggie Alejandrino

Experiment with color. Not all barongs should be in classic off-white. It’s very modern to wear it in a not-so-common color, like gray, such as the gray silk cocoon barong embroidered with callado accents that Gideon Hermosa, who has been cited as one of the “100 Most Sought After Wedding Planners and Designers” in the world, put on for a modern take, putting to good use his flair for fashion and eye for intricate detail.

Wear it cool. For a contemporary spin on formal wear, Chris Koon, the new Ateneo Blue Eagles co-captain, suits up in a crewneck piña silk barong, whose silhouette, tunic-inspired, flatters his athletic build. The design of the barong, with geometrics embroidered on the pechera or the front, exudes Filipino elegance, but true to his athletic style, he pairs it with a cool pair of kicks!

Jeffrey Crawford, Jr.

Dress it down or style it up. The modern barong can be dressed down, even if it’s in a luxurious fabric like silk cocoon. Gamer, content creator, and devoted family man Jeffrey Crawford Jr. gives his barong with geometric embroidery and a mandarin collar an unconventional, if renegade spin, by tucking it in and rolling up its sleeves. A pearl bracelet rounds up the look, giving it an androgynous flair.

Wear it like a coat. Producer, entrepreneur, and media personality Marco Lobregat wears a barong that isn’t like most others. It’s a barong, it’s a coat, it’s both. It’s the new modern classic coat barong, with a fully lined organza tailored like a jacket. It offers a whole new world of options to don the national attire for men, an exquisite choice for contemporary formal wear with a distinctive, unmistakable Filipino touch.

Isaac go

Wear it casual. The barong shirt gives the barong Tagalog more reason to be and it’s now stylish to wear it for work, for leisure, and for casual occasions. Emil Nandres, who was raised in the family barong business, prefers the shirt jack, paired with casual pants and sneakers.

Wear it with jeans. Why not? Take your cue from portrait and wedding photographer Jiggie Alejandrino, who gives his black and white coat barong a lot of plus points by pairing it with his favorite, workaday denim pants. It’s bold and refreshing!

Emil Nandres

Keep it simple. PBA player and basketball analyst Isaac Go keeps things low-key in this modern minimalist barong in snow organdy. With unfussy asymmetrical embroidery and a contemporary mandarin collar, it’s the perfect statement piece when he wants to look classy but not overly formal.

If there’s anything we can learn from these gentlemen, it’s this—Wear your barong, not the other way around. There’s a wide enough selection at Kultura to suit your personality and your personal style. kulturafilipino.com

India to host 71st Miss World 2023

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Jun 8, 2023 11:46 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The 71st Miss World 2023 promises to be an extraordinary platform that celebrates the essence of beauty, diversity, and empowerment. Contestants from over 130 countries will gather in India to showcase their unique talents, intelligence, and compassion. They will participate in a series of rigorous competitions, including talent showcases, sports challenges, and charitable initiatives, all aimed at highlighting the qualities that make them exceptional ambassadors of change.

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Reigning Miss World Karolina Bielawska of Poland (Facebook)

The Miss World Organization announced that India has been chosen as the host country for the highly anticipated 71st Miss World 2023 pageant.

The decision to award India this prestigious honor recognizes the nation's rich cultural heritage, commitment to promoting diversity, and passion for empowering women.

India's vibrant traditions, culture, and history make it a global beauty and fashion powerhouse, with captivating landscapes, iconic landmarks, and warm hospitality.

The 71st Miss World 2023 in India will promote charitable causes through philanthropic activities, inspiring contestants to make a positive impact in their communities and contribute to society.

Renowned Bollywood names from Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to Priyanka Chopra to Yukta Mukhey, India has many beautiful women who have won world-level pageants.

On the occasion, Chairperson and CEO, Miss World Organization, Julia Morley expressed: “I am delighted to announce India as the new home of the 71st Miss World Final! I have had a great affection for India from the first moment I visited this incredible country more than 30 years ago! We cannot wait to share your unique and diverse culture, world-class attractions, and breathtaking locations with the rest of the world.

Miss World Limited and PME Entertainment are joining forces - to produce an extraordinary Miss World Festival. 71st Miss World 2023 will showcase the Achievements of 130 National champions in their one-month journey across “Incredible India” as we present the 71st and most spectacular Miss World final ever. I’d also like to thank Dr. Syed Zafar Islam for his support in making this possible”

The 71st Miss World 2023 promises to be an extraordinary platform that celebrates the essence of beauty, diversity, and empowerment. Contestants from over 130 countries will gather in India to showcase their unique talents, intelligence, and compassion. They will participate in a series of rigorous competitions, including talent showcases, sports challenges, and charitable initiatives, all aimed at highlighting the qualities that make them exceptional ambassadors of change.

There will be several rounds to shortlist participants taking over a period of one month before the grand finale scheduled in November/ December 2023.

Julia Morley

Jamil Saidi, Chairman, PME Further endorsed, “The 71st Miss World Festival is in the most deserving country, to showcase this magnificent event. It enables representatives of 140 countries to come and experience Incredible India!”

“India prepares to welcome the world with open arms with the 71st Miss World 2023 and showcase the country's grace, beauty, and progressive spirit. Join us in celebrating the power of women to make a difference, as we embark on this extraordinary journey together.” Miss World 2022, Karolina Bielawska said.

The Miss World pageant holds a long-standing reputation for celebrating the beauty and intellect of women, going beyond physical appearances. It is a platform that empowers women to raise their voices, advocate for causes close to their hearts, and foster positive change on a global scale. By hosting the 71st Miss World 2023, India aims to amplify these values and catalyze meaningful conversations and actions.

The Miss World Organization is the world's oldest and most prestigious international beauty pageant. Established in 1951, it celebrates women's beauty, intellect, and humanitarian efforts from various countries. Miss World has a rich history of promoting charitable causes and empowering women to become agents of change in their communities and beyond.

Im Ausland arbeiten, in Deutschland Rente sichern – so funktioniert es

 Erstellt: 05.06.2023Aktualisiert: 07.06.2023, 11:53 Uhr

Von: Robert Wallenhauer, Merkur 

Ob als Surflehrer an der portugiesischen Algarve oder als Maschinenführer in den USA: Ihre Rentenansprüche können Deutsche nicht nur im Heimatland erwerben.

Berlin – Arbeiten, wo andere Urlaub machen: Wer im Laufe seines Berufslebens nicht nur in Deutschland, sondern auch in anderen europäischen Ländern lebt und arbeitet, soll in Sachen soziale Absicherung keine Nachteile erleiden. Das Europarecht sorgt dafür, dass auch Zeiten im Ausland für den späteren Rentenanspruch relevant sein können. Diese sollten deshalb unbedingt beim zuständigen Rentenversicherungsträger angegeben werden. Darauf weist die Deutsche Rentenversicherung Bund (DRV) in Berlin hin. 

Denn um eine Rente zu erhalten, müssen bestimmte Voraussetzungen erfüllt sein - dazu gehört zum Beispiel das Erreichen der sogenannten Mindestversicherungszeit. Für langjährig Versicherte, die mit 63 in Rente gehen wollen, liegt diese in Deutschland bei 35 Jahren. Beschäftigungszeiten, die in verschiedenen Ländern erbracht wurden, können dafür zusammengerechnet werden.

Arbeiten, wo andere Urlaub machen: Die Rente in Deutschland kann trotzdem gezahlt werden. © Pau Cardellach Lliso/Imago 

In diesen Ländern lassen sich Arbeitsjahre bei der Rente anrechnen

Eine Zusammenrechnung der Zeiten erfolgt laut DRV nach europäischem Gemeinschaftsrecht zwischen den Staaten der Europäischen Union sowie auch Liechtenstein, Island, Norwegen und der Schweiz. Mit vielen anderen Staaten habe Deutschland Sozialversicherungsabkommen geschlossen. 

Hier ist eine Übersicht der Länder mit Sozialversicherungsabkommen mit Deutschland:

• Albanien
• Australien
• Bosnien-Herzegowina
• Brasilien
• Chile
• Indien
• Israel
• Japan
• Kanada und Quebec
• Kosovo
• Marokko
• Moldau
• Montenegro
• Nordmazedonien
• Philippinen
• Serbien
• Südkorea
• Tunesien
• Türkei
• Uruguay
• USA

Rente: Wird Anspruch nicht erreicht, sind gezahlte Beiträge nicht futsch

Wer die Voraussetzungen für einen Rentenanspruch erfüllt, bekommt die Leistung grundsätzlich von demjenigen Land ausgezahlt, in dem die Beschäftigung geleistet wurde, teilt die DRV mit. Deshalb könnten Rentenzahlungen zeitgleich aus mehreren Staaten fließen. Wer die Mindestversicherungszeit trotz der Zusammenrechnung von Zeiten nicht erfülle und somit keine Rente erhalte, könne sich die gezahlten Beiträge in der Regel erstatten lassen.

Orchids of the Month of June

June marks the rainy season and blooming of many orchid species in the Philippines, with Grammatophyllum wallisii, Renanthera storiei, Vanda luzonica, and Vanda ustii being some of the fascinating orchids that bloom during this time.

BY JAMES TABABA

Jun 7, 2023 01:51 PM

  

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June is a special month in the Philippines, as it marks the onset of the rainy season and the blooming of many beautiful orchid species. As the rains begin to fall, orchids that have been dormant during the dry season are triggered to start growing and producing flowers, bringing color and life to gardens and natural areas across the country.

In many parts of the Philippines, particularly in the mountainous areas, the blooming of certain flowers during June serves as a natural indicator of the changing season. Mountain communities have developed an intimate understanding of their local flora and fauna, utilizing this knowledge to monitor environmental changes throughout the year.

Here are some of the fascinating orchids that typically bloom in June, showcasing the diversity and beauty of the Philippines' native flora.

Grammatophyllum wallisii

Grammatophyllum wallisii, commonly known as the Tiger Orchid, is native to the tropical rainforests of the Philippines. This magnificent orchid species has been prized for centuries for its flowers, which are often striped with bold, tiger-like patterns.

Grammatophyllum wallisii (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

It has been located in various locations, including the Sierra Madre Mountain range, Quirino, Aurora, Bicol, and Quezon provinces. These areas provide the orchid with the ideal conditions it needs to grow and thrive, such as high humidity, warm temperatures, and ample rainfall.

Grammatophyllum wallisii (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Grammatophyllum wallisii is a type of orchid that is known as a sympodial orchid. Sympodial growth refers to the way in which the plant grows, with lateral growth producing new shoots from the base of the plant rather than from a central stem.  This growth pattern allows the plant to form large clumps over time, with multiple pseudobulbs and leaves forming a dense and impressive display.

The plant can grow up to several meters in length and width, making it one of the largest orchids in the world.

Renanthera storiei

Renanthera storiei is a beautiful and unique orchid species native to the Philippines. Renanthera storiei is commonly known as the Fire Orchid due to its brilliant fiery red flowers. The common name is derived from the color of its blooms, which resemble the flames of a fire. The Fire Orchid is a popular ornamental plant and is widely cultivated for its stunning and vibrant flowers.

Renanthera storiei (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

One of the reasons for its popularity is its use in breeding programs to produce larger and more robust flowers with branching spikes. It is highly sought after for its desirable traits such as its vibrant color, strong stems, and long-lasting flowers. As a result, it has been extensively used in breeding programs to develop new and exciting orchid varieties.

Renanthera storiei (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Renanthera storiei is a monopodial orchid, which means it has a single stem with leaves and flowers growing from the top. The stem grows upward and does not produce pseudobulbs like many other orchid species. Instead, the plant produces aerial roots that help it anchor onto tree trunks or other support structures.

Vanda luzonica

Vanda luzonica is an orchid species that is named after Luzon island in the Philippines, where it is commonly found. It is an endemic orchid of the Philippines, meaning it is native to and found only in the Philippines. However, it has become rarer due to the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in Zambales. Despite this, it remains a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts, and is often used in hybridization to create new and interesting orchid varieties, particularly for its beautiful pink pigment.

Vanda luzonica (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

The color of the flowers is typically white with a soft pink or lavender shade, with darker pink or purple markings or spots on the lip. The petals and sepals are usually a lighter color than the lip, giving the flower a delicate look.

Vanda luzonica (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

One of the interesting characteristics of this bloom is that it typically needs to grow to about one meter in height before it will produce its striking flowers. This height requirement is a trait of some monopodial orchids, which grow vertically from a single stem and produce leaves and flowers along its length.

Vanda ustii

Vanda ustii is a beautiful and unique orchid that is endemic to the Philippines. Originally thought to be a variety of Vanda luzonica, it was later determined to be a separate species due to its distinct morphology. It was named after the University of Santo Tomas, with its golden-yellow flowers representing the school's colors.

Vanda ustii (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

The flowers of Vanda ustii display a golden-yellow hue with a purple lip and violet markings on each sepal. As a monopodial orchid, Vanda ustii grows from a single stem that continues to elongate from the tip throughout its life.

Vanda ustii (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Compared to its close relative Vanda luzonica, Vanda ustii is more free-flowering and produces blooms more frequently. It can be found in the Southern Luzon regions of the Philippines.