Caring for our mental health

By Fr. Roy Cimagala

Chaplain

Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE)

Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

IN the gospel, many instances are recorded where some leading Jews would make many rash judgments on Christ and his disciples. One such instance was when Christ cured a man with a withered hand. (cfr. Lk 6,6-11) 

These leading Jews were quick to observe if Christ would heal that man on a Sabbath, which to them was a no-no, according to their rigid and self-righteous laws. And when finally Christ cured the man, they were enraged and discussed among themselves about what to do with Christ.

This, to me, is an example of what we can consider, at the very least, as a mental health issue. The whole affair certainly is more serious than that, involving as it does matters of faith and spiritual life, but the mental health aspect, I would say, plays a crucial role in it.

We have to give due concern to this aspect of our life because nowadays we can observe increasing cases of mental health issues. Many people are falling into anxiety, depression, burn-out, addiction, psychosis, delirium, bipolar disorder, etc. The increasing pressures and complexities in today’s life can easily give rise to these disorders.

The ideal mental health, I imagine, is when one is at peace with everyone, first with God, and then with everybody and everything else. Despite the unavoidable differences, conflicts, difficulties and challenges in life, one manages to be at peace and confident in tackling whatever situation one may be in, certain of where he is going. He has a clear vision of the real purpose of life, and does everything to be on track.

Obviously, this ideal mental health can only be achieved when one is with God who, in Christ, offers us the “way, the truth and the life” proper to us. Thus, to develop good mental health, we really should go to Christ who makes himself available to us all the time through the many instrumentalities he himself has provided us.

The significance of our mental health lies in the fact that it is there where we can have greater control of our own selves, enabling us to direct our thoughts, desires, feelings, etc. to their proper objective.

If we make the effort to develop our mental health in Christ, we can manage to understand many things and to cope with any situation we may find ourselves in. We can avoid making rash judgments, negative thoughts, and having a critical spirit, always looking for faults in others. More than these, we would always feel driven to do good, whatever may be the circumstances.

Of course, that’s easier said than done. We have to realize that to develop a good mental health, we need to do certain things—praying, developing the virtues like humility, prudence, order, fortitude, etc. In a sense, there is a certain regimen to follow also, one that is fitted to one’s concrete conditions. 

This is where the value of piety comes in, playing a crucial role in keeping us healthy mentally, emotionally, psychologically and even physically. Piety is our relationship with God. It is nourished by God’s gifts of faith, hope and charity to which we have to correspond knowingly, freely and lovingly.

We have to realize more deeply our need to have a genuine life of piety to be truly healthy, first in the spirit and then in the body. We have to spread this Good News widely. It hardly involves money or some material things. What only is needed is an act of faith, which is something spiritual, a matter of our will and intelligence.

Why do tourists visit the Philippines?

 

Travelerszones

Travel Lovers | Luxurious Place | Reservation Information

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Hello, fellow travelers! My name is Marlon Mcleod, and I'm a passionate explorer who loves to discover new cultures, cuisines, and experiences around the world. I've been traveling for years, and I've accumulated a wealth of knowledge and insights that I'm excited to share with the Quora community.

Introduction

The Philippines, a captivating archipelago in Southeast Asia, is a land of stunning beauty, diverse culture, and warm-hearted people. Nestled in the Western Pacific Ocean, this tropical paradise lures travelers from across the globe to its shores year-round. From pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs to lush jungles and centuries-old historical sites, the Philippines offers an unparalleled array of experiences that leave tourists enchanted and eager to return. In this article, we will explore the top reasons why tourists visit the Philippines and why this magical destination continues to captivate travelers from all walks of life.

1. Tropical Beaches and Island Hopping

The Philippines is synonymous with postcard-perfect beaches and crystal-clear waters. From the iconic White Beach in Boracay to the secluded beauty of Palawan's El Nido, each island offers a unique beach experience. Tourists are drawn to the Philippines for its excellent opportunities for island hopping, exploring hidden coves, and snorkeling in vibrant coral gardens.

2. Scuba Diving and Marine Biodiversity

As one of the world's most biodiverse marine regions, the Philippines is a mecca for scuba diving enthusiasts. The country's numerous dive sites, such as Apo Reef and Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, are teeming with colorful marine life, including majestic whale sharks and vibrant coral reefs. The Philippines' underwater wonders offer a mesmerizing experience for divers of all levels.

3. Warm Hospitality and Culture

Filipinos are renowned for their warm hospitality and genuine friendliness towards visitors. Tourists are welcomed with open arms and embraced into the vibrant local culture. Whether participating in traditional festivities, tasting local delicacies, or learning about ancient rituals, tourists find a deep connection with the heart and soul of the Filipino people.

4. Breathtaking Landscapes and Nature Escapes

The Philippines boasts an array of breathtaking landscapes, from the terraced rice fields of Banaue to the chocolate hills of Bohol. Nature lovers can explore the mystical underground river of Puerto Princesa, hike to hidden waterfalls like Kawasan Falls, or traverse the picturesque Batad Rice Terraces. These natural wonders make the Philippines an adventurer's dream come true.

5. Unique Festivals and Celebrations

The Philippines is a nation of festivals and celebrations, with each region having its own distinct traditions and festivities. Tourists flock to witness iconic festivals like the Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, Sinulog in Cebu, and the lively MassKara Festival in Bacolod. These vibrant events offer an immersive experience into the country's rich cultural heritage.

6. Historical Landmarks and Heritage Sites

Steeped in history, the Philippines is home to numerous historical landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tourists can explore the centuries-old Spanish-era churches in Vigan and Paoay, discover the ancient rice terraces of the Cordilleras, and learn about the country's colonial past at Intramuros in Manila.

7. Adventure Sports and Outdoor Activities

For adrenaline seekers, the Philippines offers an abundance of adventure sports and outdoor activities. From surfing the waves of Siargao and wakeboarding in CamSur to spelunking in Sagada's caves and zip-lining across lush forests, tourists can indulge in thrilling experiences amidst the country's stunning landscapes.

Conclusion

The Philippines, with its tropical charm, rich cultural heritage, and captivating natural wonders, stands as an irresistible destination for tourists seeking an unforgettable travel experience. Whether relaxing on pristine beaches, immersing in the country's warm hospitality, or exploring the diverse marine life underwater, the Philippines offers a cornucopia of experiences that cater to every traveler's desires. From breathtaking landscapes and vibrant festivals to heartwarming encounters with the locals, a journey to the Philippines promises a transformative experience that leaves tourists with lasting memories and a longing to return. Discover the beauty and magic of the Philippines, and be captivated by the allure of this tropical paradise that has enchanted travelers for generations.

Please support my work by upvoting this article, commenting below, and sharing it with your friends. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra sets next season with new conductor

 Kristofer Purnell - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) gears up for its 39th season under the leadership of a new music director and principal conductor Maestro Grzegorz Nowak.

Nowak previously worked with the PPO in the previous season in a concert held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Main Theater last October before the main building was closed for renovations.

In a press conference held last September 5, Novak said the musicians in the PPO responded well to his raising demands during their practices and sessions, something he found very encouraging.

"It's a big change and move, but the main thing is to build something to be recognized [globally] and we are on our way to achieve that," Nowak added.

Prior to joining the PPO, Nowak was the principal associate conductor of London's Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the music director of the Polish National Opera, and worked with other orchestras in Germany, Switzerland, the United States, and his native Poland.

For its 39th season bearing the theme "Switch," the PPO will move temporary homes from Manila's Metropolitan Theater to Makati's Samsung Performing Arts Theater while the CCP main building finishes rehabilitation.

All seven concerts will be at 7:30 p.m. with ticket prices ranging from P800 (Balcony 1) to P3,000 (Orchestra Center).

'Switch' rundown

The season begins with "Roman Carnival" on September 15 with Hecot Berlioz's overture of the same name, Edvard Grieg's "Piano Concerto, op.16, A minor," and Ottorino Respighi's "Pini di Roma (Pines of Rome)" featuring British pianist Mark Bebbington as a guest performer.

On October 13 will be "Italian Night" with Felix Mendelssohn's "Italian," Antonín Dvorák's "Cello Concerto," and selected Filipino composition, accompanied by guest Switzerland-based cellist Wen-Sinn Yang.

The third concert "Russian Masters" on November 17 is composed of Pyotr Ilich Tchaikovsky's "Eugene Onegin: Polonaise," Sergei Rachmaninoff's "Piano Concerto, no. 2, op.18, C minor," and selections of Serge Prokofiev's "Romeo & Juliet."

The PPO's holiday performance is "Ode to Joy" on December 8 with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's "Piano Concerto no. 21, K 467, C major" and Ludwig van Beethoven's "Symphony no. 9, op.125, D minor" — the composer's famous work that adapted Friedrich Schiller's poem "Ode to Joy" — featuring the Philippines' own Raul Sunico on the piano.

The 39th season carries on into 2024 with "Fate" on January 12 consisting of Johannes Brahms' "Piano Concerto no. 1, op.15, D minor," Tchaikovsky's "Symphony no. 4, op.36, F minor," and one commissioned Filipino work, with pianist Jerome Rose as a guest soloist.

The penultimate "Piano Rapture" concert on February 9 will have Poland's Krystian Zimerman as a guest soloist to help perform Stanislaw Maniuszko's "The Fairy Tale Overture," Beethoven's "Piano Concerto no. 4, op.19, Bb major," and Rachmaninoff's "Symphony no. 2, op.27."

As a Valentine's treat, there will be special performances on February 14 and 16 where Zimmerman will be conducting, performing as a soloist, and be part of an ensemble.

Wrapping up PPO's 39th season is "Fete Francaise" with a performance of Gaetano Donizetti's "Don Pasquale." Since it will be a semi-stage opera, auditions for the stage roles will be held in January.

Philippines hailed Asia’s leading dive destination anew

Rosette Adel - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — For the fifth consecutive year this 2023, the Philippines remains to be the leading dive destination in the region.

The World Travel Awards (WTA) awarded the Philippines the Asia’s Leading Dive Destination title at the preeminent WTA Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony 2023 held at the GEM Center in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The trophy was personally received by Tourism Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano.

The award was based on public votes and validation from the group’s panel of travel professional.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said the recent victory “affirms the unparalleled beauty and megabiodiversity of our country loved by divers and tourists all over the world.”

“This is a testament to the Philippines' commitment to sustainable tourism development and our strengthened collaboration with tourism stakeholders. From our ridges to our reefs, you will never run out of reasons to Love the Philippines!” Frasco added.

The tourism chief, an advocate and diver, is promoting programs that elevate the dive industry.

Among those is the Department of Tourism’s creation of the Dive Committee that will align its dive product development and promotion thrusts with its attached agencies, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, and the Philippine Commission for Sports Scuba Diving (PCSSD).

The tourism agency will also convene the country’s national dive stakeholders in the first-ever Philippine Dive Dialogue in Cebu next week to consolidate all the efforts of the national government, local governments and private sector partners.

It is also eying the installation of additional hyperbaric chambers that will improve scuba diving safety standards in strategic dive locations, such as Dumaguete and Daanbantayan in Cebu, by 2024. This will be led by its infrastructure arm, TIEZA.

The DOT likewise launched its own dive expo brand, the Philippine International Dive Expo (PHIDEX), the world's only dive show that combines a dive travel exchange, a business-to-business (B2B) meeting program, dive conferences and seminars, exhibition booths, and familiarization tours to key and emerging Philippine dive destinations. The fourth edition of PHIDEX is slated in February next year.

There are also regional dive-centric events hosted by the DOT which include the DOT Office of Product and Market Development - Dive Team’s Anilao Underwater Shootout in Batangas, the DIVE7 Festival series by the DOT Region VII office, the Davao Dive Expo by the DOT Region XI office, and the NorthMin Dive by the DOT Region X office —which opened on September 6, among others.

Lastly, the DOT has supported diving initiatives, assessments and expeditions, including the Cebu Travel Catalogue, the Bohol Loop Dive Expo (BHOLDEX), the 3rd MisOr Dive Festival, Samal Island Dive Seafari and Bay Deep Mati Freediving Festival, among many others.

WTA Asia & Oceania

Meanwhile, aside from bagging the leading dive destination title, Philippine private tourism stakeholders also won awards.

These stakeholders were recognized in the Asian and country category:

Okada Manila - Asia’s Leading Casino Resort

Discovery Shores Boracay - Philippines’ Leading Beach Resort 2023

Travelite Travel and Tours Co. - Philippines’ Leading Destination Management Company 2023

Seda Hotels - Philippines’ Leading Hotel Group 2023

Regional edition awardees, as well as runners-up and previous year’s winners, are qualified for the WTA’s World edition, which will have its grand awards night in Muscat, Oman in November 2023. 

WTA, established in 1993, is touted as “the ultimate hallmark of excellence" in the tourism and hospitality industries” globally.

LTO to extend driver’s licenses by one year

 

Romina Cabrera - The Philippine Star 

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is set to extend the validity of driver’s licenses up to June 2024 as its plastic card supply deal faces a bump on the road.

LTO chief Vigor Mendoza said yesterday that the agency is set to release a memorandum granting an automatic one-year extension for driver’s licenses that expired in June 2023 “in anticipation of the worst-case scenario.”

The extension will be valid for one year or until lifted by the LTO once the license card situation normalizes.

The LTO is facing a legal battle over its P240-million plastic card contract after a losing bidder questioned the deal before a Quezon City court.

A Quezon City regional trial court issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) on the contract, wherein winning bidder Banner Plasticard Inc. was supposed to deliver a total of 5.2 million cards by Feb. 21 next year.

“Our supplier cannot move because of the TRO,” Mendoza said.

The TRO will expire today if the court does not issue a preliminary injunction against the deal, after which the supplier could deliver the plastic cards, he noted.

Mendoza said that that the LTO will inform law enforcers, including the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, of the extension order once it is issued.

Meanwhile, the LTO also vowed to review the enforcement of temporary operators’ permit or TOP.

He said he noted that policies regarding the TOP, which should be valid for 72 hours from apprehension, should be harmonized with Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01, which provides for the revised schedule of fines and penalties.

September orchid of the month: Paphiopedilum

BY JAMES TABABA

Sep 7, 2023 12:58 PM

  

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Paphiopedilum philippinense (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Paphiopedilum, commonly known as the lady’s slipper orchid, is a fascinating group of plants included in the Appendix I list of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). Being classified under CITES Appendix I means it is a critically endangered plant species subject to stringent international trade regulations that aim to safeguard its survival and prevent further decline.

Paphiopedilum orchids are highly regarded in the horticultural world due to their multifloral nature, producing many flowers on a single stem. Orchid collectors and enthusiasts find them appealing because of their texture, elegance, and diverse range of colors which include purple, brown, green, yellow, and white. Their flowers resemble a lady's slipper, characterized by bulbous labellum, elongated petals, prominent dorsal sepals, and fused lateral sepals.

Paphiopedilum philippinense (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Natural habitat and growing conditions

In the Philippines, the most prevalent type is the Paphiopedilum philippinense, which is found extensively in the country and extends to Borneo. These beautiful orchids are native to the Philippines, where two-thirds of the species are endemic, existing only within the country's borders. Paphiopedilum philippinense has been observed growing on limestone in coastal areas. The porous nature of limestone allows the roots to permeate and store water, making it the preferred growing medium for these orchids. Despite being called "ground orchids," Paphiopedilum does not grow directly in soil but rather on detritus or decaying vegetation found on the forest floor. In some instances, they can be seen growing on tree branches.

Paphiopedilum philippinense (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Cultivating Paphiopedilum can be challenging, especially when taken outside their natural habitat. Laboratory-grown Paphiopedilum orchids tend to be easier to grow than those taken from the wild, as they have already been selected and acclimated to controlled conditions. For successful cultivation, it is essential to mimic their natural environment as closely as possible.

Potting mix and container

Paphiopedilum orchids can be grown on various mediums such as bark, limestone, crushed stones, or marbles. Some sellers in Cebu even use crushed crab shells, which should be thoroughly washed and sterilized to remove excess salt. Additional components like coconut husk and charcoal can be added to the potting mix. To ensure stability, it is essential to plant the orchid firmly and avoid wobbling. The plant can be bound or secured on sticks or wires for added support. 

A Paphiopedilum hybrid of Paphiopedilum philippinense and Indonesia's pride, Paphiopedilum rothschildianum from Borneo. (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

While most orchids' pot size is determined by the length of the leaves or canopy, Paphiopedilum prefers smaller pots, sometimes as little as a two-inch width, but adequate to keep the plant upright. It is crucial that only the roots have contact with the growing medium to prevent rot and diseases caused by leaf-media contact.

Light and water requirements

Paphiopedilum thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Placing them under a single layer of net shade will provide sufficient lighting. These orchids require watering once a day.  A slow-release fertilizer is preferred, although any balanced fertilizer will suffice.

Paphiopedilum lowii from Palawan (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Proper ventilation and air movement

While Paphiopedilum is considered a ground orchid, better growth is often achieved when the plant is hung, allowing for proper ventilation and air movement. The most common problems encountered when growing these orchids are mites and leaf scales, which typically occur due to overcrowding. Additionally, Paphiopedilum orchids are susceptible to bacterial and fungal diseases. However, these issues can be minimized by meeting the basic requirements of adequate sunlight, proper spacing between plants, and avoiding leaf contact between plants. If any signs of browning on the leaves are visible, the affected parts should be promptly removed to prevent disease spread.

Paphiopedilum exhibits an exotic ornamental appearance, making it a sought-after plant. However, its relative rarity and specialized care requirements contribute to its higher cost, appealing more to connoisseur orchid growers rather than a mainstream choice. 

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin Agriculture

UNVEILING THE MASK: Who is Lee Han-byeol?

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Sep 6, 2023 11:23 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Han-byeol is one of the artists who manifested that it's never too late to pursue your dreams! In her feature withHarper Bazaar's Korea, she said that she only pursued acting during her late 20s and did not take any courses related to acting for her undergraduate studies.

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Lee Han-byeol (Instagram)

A new face is unveiled in the new original K-drama series on Netflix, "Mask Girl." Even behind the disguise, the rookie actor who appeared for the first time on the TV screen, Lee Han-byeol, made a powerful debut and caught people's attention for her performance in the Korean thriller.

The actress played the role of the first face of the main character, Kim Mo Mi, the woman whose appearance was hidden by a mask. It's time to reveal more about the rookie star behind the mask, so here are nine things about Lee Han-byeol.

• Lee Han-byeol is a Pisces but doesn't want to reveal her MBTI.

Han-byeol is 31 years old and was born in South Korea on March 18, 1992. In her first solo interview on the YouTube channel of Harper's Bazaar Korea, Han-byeol said that she doesn't want to reveal her MBTI, "If I reveal my MBTI, I feel like I'm naked and people know too much about my tendencies," the actress said. 

• The actress competed with 1,000 participants who auditioned for the role of Kim Mo Mi.

During the press conference of Mask Girl, Han-byeol admitted how she was worried about her role. Still, the director, Kim Yong Hoon, made sure to give all the support and gave her a message that she would do well. The director mentioned that Han-byeol was selected out of the 1,000 registered participants. Yong Hoon was impressed by the actress's looks as it matched the character, although it's relatively new in the K-drama scene.

Lee Han-byeol on the set of 'Mask Girl' (Instagram)

• Lee Han-byeol is signed under Ace Factory.

Korean agency Ace Factory represents well-known actors such as Lee Joon Hyuk ("Dark Hole," "365 Repeat the Year," "Stranger"), Yoo Jaemyung ("Itaewon Class"), Lee Joo Young ("Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo, Itaewon Class") and more!

• She pursued acting in her late 20s.

Han-byeol is one of the artists who manifested that it's never too late to pursue your dreams! In her feature with Harper Bazaar's Korea, she said that she only pursued acting during her late 20s and did not take any courses related to acting for her undergraduate studies. 

• Lee Han-byeol's first lead role was in 'Mask Girl!'

Before landing her lead role in Mask Girl, Han-byeol appeared in short films. Finally, she made her TV acting debut in Mask Girl, portraying the first Kim Mo Mi, who plays an office worker during the day and a cam girl by night.  

• The actress trained with a choreographer from YG Entertainment for her role in 'Mask Girl'

Dance skills are a must to play the role of Kim Mo Mi, and the show's director said that Han-byeol had to take up dance training for it. Han-byeol trained under a choreographer from YG Entertainment, and the actress revealed that it took quite some time for her to get comfortable dancing in a 'sultry' manner. She also said that the 'Dance in the Rhythm' by Kim Wan Sun was the most challenging track to dance to. 

A picture from Lee Han-byeol’s Instagram @lhanbyeol 

• Many people praised the performance of Lee Han-byeol in 'Mask Girl'

People who watched "Mask Girl'' were so impressed when they found out that it was Han-byeol's first TV acting debut. They praised the performance of Han-byeol in the series, especially knowing that it was the actress' debut performance. 

• Lee Han-byeol opened up on encountering hurtful moments because of her appearance and her avoiding Googling "Mask Girl" because of some comments.

Now, more K-dramas discuss the beauty standards of South Korea, which has been an issue for quite some time. Han-byeol said that discussing this topic is not new to her as she encountered unpleasant experiences from people's perceptions of her. In an interview, she said, "I try not to Google Mask Girl too much because some of the comments might be hurtful." 

• She has an eye for photography!

On her official Instagram account (@lhanbyeol), Han-byeol has photos mostly about art, and her bio links to the profile of @vbgstxx, which shows photographs of places around Korea. Behind masks, she has an eye for good details and scenes to show. (Kyla Mari Paulo/OJT/University of Santo Tomas)