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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Saturday, August 17, 2024

Another year of unfolding nature’s stories: The annual Earth+Lens photo exhibit is back

Manila Bulletin’s Earth+Lens features the earth’s best and captivating moments through the lens of a camera


 

Photo 1 (1).jpegFrom highlighting the beauty of Philippine Forests from last year’s exhibit, Manila Bulletin’s annual Earth+Lens photo exhibit returns this year to unfold ethereal and mesmerizing images of landscapes, wildlife, and sceneries. Previously, the Manila Bulletin’s Earth+Lens exhibit focused on the grandeur of the micro and macro elements of the Philippine forests that brought awareness and an imperative call to action for forest protection. This year, the exhibit will not only showcase the majestic nature the country has, but also the scenes that tell stories on how life forms sway with nature.

With its continuing goal of raising public awareness and understanding of the featured environmental-related issues, Manila Bulletin’s Earth+Lens features the earth’s best and captivating moments through the lens of a camera. This year’s theme, Motions in Nature, will showcase the movements in nature both its natural flow and element’s motion. It will also display nature’s harmonious choreography and sceneries that narrates compelling stories.

Together with partner stakeholders that share the same goal and vision with Manila Bulletin, the Earth+Lens 2024 will be mounted on a bigger venue, longer display duration, and more enthralling photos to reach a wider audience. Since 2019, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has been a staunch supporter of this campaign in sharing the beauty of the Philippines and eco-tourism. The Earth+Lens 2024 also marks the fifth year of the event’s annual partnership. Along with the DOT is the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) to help put forward the campaign through the art form of photography. The National Museum of the Philippines will also be this year’s official venue partner to host the exhibit, and HUAWEI, the long-time and the official smartphone photography partner for this year.

Similar to the previous partnerships, HUAWEI powered the roster of content producers with tools to capture the moment when nature moves and to showcase new and fresh nature photos using its latest flagship phone, HUAWEI Pura 70 Ultra and Pura 70 Pro. The innovative Pura 70 Series continues the brand’s exceptional photography feature where advanced camera capabilities such as, Ultra Speed Snapshot for fast-moving subjects, 

Telephoto Macro Shot for extreme close-ups, and detailed Portrait Shot for dramatic photos were put to test in creating stunning visual storytelling.
This year’s edition will highlight the intricate movements in nature, such as the delicate sway of the trees, the rhythmic flow of the seas, and how the birds sync with the wind. Staying true to the campaign’s core mission, the promising photos captured by the partner photographers are printed on fabric canvas using eco-solvent ink similar to last year, to promote sustainability as part of its campaign.

The partner photographers traversed through various stunning locations across the Philippines to take breathtaking images. 

Jan Mayo, a new partner this year and a professional portrait photographer, explored the lush greenery and diverse flora of the UP Arboretum in Quezon City. He also ventured through Bohol, capturing its unique wildlife, both in the skies and the crystal-clear waters. His works show a wide-ranging fauna, from a turtle gliding underwater to a tarsier perched upright on a tree. His photography draws attention to the intricate beauty of each subject.

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Photographed by Jan Mayo

Silver Belen, a partner photographer since 2023, delved into the hidden beauty of Banaue, Ifugao. Silver’s keen eye captured both the minute details of movements in nature and the sweeping landscapes found in the community, providing a glimpse into Banaue’s lesser-discovered wonders. His works reveal the delicate movements of endemic insect species, the daily life of locals, and the terraces illuminated by sunlight.

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Photographed by Silver Belen

The enchanting centuries-old stone houses, white sandy beaches, and green mountains of Batanes were artfully captured by Noel Pabalate, Manila Bulletin’s photojournalist and a longtime partner photographer of the exhibit. Through his expert eyes, Pabalate has crafted a visual narrative that highlights the magnificent life and stillness in the island. 

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Photographed by Noel Pabalate

Keith Bacongco, also one of the longest partners of the exhibit, journeyed into the landscapes, skies, and waters of Burauen, Leyte, and Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. The images he has taken provide a vivid representation of the magnificence of the flora and fauna in the lesser-explored destinations in the region. Bacongco’s images capture the intricate details of an eagle's feathers, the majesty of these birds soaring through the sky, and the fascinating interactions of insects in their natural habitats.

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  Photographed by Keith Bacongco

Catch more of their breathtaking works, captured through the newest HUAWEI Pura 70 series, which will be displayed at the Marble Hall (Hyundai Philippines Entrance Hall) of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila. 

The on-ground activity comes back on August 20 which will run until September 1, with Manila Bulletin Earth+Lens and partner organizations to officially launch the event. 

Discover the motions of nature in the country’s hidden gems through the photo displays. Visitors can explore these breathtaking images, open to the public from Tuesdays to Sundays.

The HUAWEI Pura 70 Ultra and Pura 70 Pro are also available in all leading stores nationwide and on the HUAWEI Official Website. Get yours now and share your mobile photography skills with the world.

Friday, August 16, 2024

DOH: Monitoring systems on alert vs mpox spread

By: Dexter Cabalza - Reporter / @dexcabalzaINQ

Philippine Daily Inquirer / 05:36 AM August 16, 2024


MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday said the country’s surveillance systems had been placed on alert as the World Health Organization declared mpox (formerly monkeypox) a global public health emergency for the second time in two years, following an outbreak in Africa that could spread outside the continent.

No border control measures are being recommended but the Bureau of Quarantine would conduct “interviews, particularly to passengers departing and arriving from countries in Africa,” according to DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo.

“No new mpox cases have been detected in the Philippines since December 2023,” Domingo said.

The DOH had recorded nine confirmed cases of mpox —four in 2022 and five in 2023 —none of them fatal and with all the patients recovering later.


Highest alert level


On Thursday, WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the upsurge of mpox cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and a growing number of countries in Africa constituted a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). A PHEIC status is the WHO’s highest level of alert, a situation calling for accelerated research, funding and international cooperation to contain a disease.

The declaration came on the advice of an emergency committee of independent experts who informed the WHO chief that the surge of mpox cases has the “potential to spread further across countries in Africa and possibly outside the continent.”

“The emergence of a new clade of mpox, its rapid spread in eastern DRC, and the reporting of cases in several neighboring countries are very worrying. On top of outbreaks of other mpox clades in DRC and other countries in Africa, it’s clear that a coordinated international response is needed to stop these outbreaks and save lives,” Tedros said.


Earlier outbreaks

According to the WHO, there have been around 100,000 confirmed mpox cases worldwide, with 208 deaths reported.

This would be the second time the WHO raised a PHEIC relating to mpox.

In July 2022, an mpox outbreak in different parts of the world was declared a PHEIC as cases spread rapidly via sexual contact across a range of countries where the virus had not been seen before.


BINI headlines Asiya Music Festival and Conference




Kristofer Purnell - Philstar.com


MANILA, Philippines — P-pop girl group BINI leads a sprawling list of performers and delegates for the Asiya Music Festival and Conference this October.


Asiya organizers released the full lineup of performers and delegates for the two-day event happening in Pasay's World Trade Center on October 12 and 13, both days starting at 2 p.m.


Joining BINI as headliners are Korean band Hyukoh and Taiwanese band Sunset Rollercoaster, the latter having just performed at Wanderland 2024 last March.


Representing the Philippines as well are JK Labajo, UDD, Urbandub, Zild Benitez, Reese Lansangan, Gabba Santiago, Ysanygo, Jose Miguel, and Flu.


Completing the performer lineup are Korea's Balming Tiger (also returning from Wanderland 2024) and Colde, Japan's imase and Salasa, Singapore's Shye, Taiwan's 9m88, Malaysia's babychair, and Thailand's Numcha.


Delegates speaking at keynote talks and panel discussions come from all around the world, even outside Asia like the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Spain, and Russia.


Organizers already released ticketing details for the festival, which come in three phases: Phase 1 from August 15 to 31 (or until supplies last), Phase 2 for the whole of September (or as soon as Phase 1 sells out), and regular selling from October until event proper (or as soon as Phase 2 sells out).



During Phase 1, single-day tickets cost P3,650, general admission weekend tickets cost P5,050, while VIP weekend tickets cost P8,850.


The prices will go up for Phase 2 (P3,950, P5,550, and P9450, respectively) and regular selling (P4,450, P6,150, and P9,950, respectively).


General admission allows for music festival access while VIP tickets include access to the viewing deck, express entrance and merchadise lanes, re-entry, and a kit containing a totebag, lanyard with ID, shirt, and keychain.


There will be no barriers dividing ticketholders, meaning, festival goers can roam around the venue proper between two stages.


Children below seven years old will not be allowed while minors (ages 8 to 17) must be accompanied by a ticket-bearing guardian.


Because transactions are made via the Asiya website, no discounts can be applied to students, senior citizens, and people with disabilities though organizers assured they are "working on it for future shows."


They added that even non-Filipinos can buy tickets, with a maximum of 10 tickets per purchase.


Passes for the conference portion of Asiya will be announced at a later date.

K-pop girl group Fromis 9 returns with ‘Supersonic’

BY JONATHAN HICAP



Fromis 9, the girl group under HYBE and Pledis Entertainment, released their third single album ‘Supersonic” on Aug. 12. 

Composed of Lee Sae Rom, Song Ha Young, Park Ji Won, Roh Ji Sun, Lee Seo Yeon, Lee Chae Young, Lee Na Gyung, and Baek Ji Heon, Fromis 9’s lead single “Supersonic” is a summer song that combines a heavy bass with a fast-paced beat, layered on top of Miami Bass. 

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Fromis 9 (Pledis Entertainment)

The title symbolizes the band’s ambition to reach listeners at supersonic speed and become the soundtrack of the summer.

The second track, “Beat the Heat,” immediately gives the summer anthem vibes with a rhythmic melody and Fromis 9’s Lee Sae Rom and Park Ji Won contributed to the lyrics. 

The dreamy, euphoric pop track “Take a Chance” features lyrics by Lee Sae Rom, Park Ji Won, and Lee Seo Yeon.

Fromis 9’s new single album encapsulates the bright and energetic charm that defines who they are. 

"We want to share our signature refreshing vibe while showcasing our healthy energy," fromis_9 said. 

Sharing their thoughts on the new album, they added, “This single truly captures ‘summer' itself. From the intense and passionate lead track “Supersonic” to the cool and breezy B-sides like ‘Beat the Heat’ and ‘Take A Chance,’ we’ve infused the essence of summer into every song. We hope listeners can recharge their energy and enjoy a refreshing summer with our new single.”

They aim to establish themselves as ‘Summer Heroines’ with this release, with captivating performances that are sure to win everyone’s hearts. Anticipation is high as they’re ready to race in at ‘supersonic’ speed to sweep away the exhaustion and thirst of the sweltering season in one go.

Fromis 9’s new single album “Supersonic” is now available on streaming platforms.

Long weekend: Marcos moves Ninoy Aquino Day to Friday, Aug. 23


Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has rescheduled the observance of Ninoy Aquino Day from Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024 to Friday, Aug. 23, 2024.

In a newly issued Proclamation 665, Malacañang said the move allows for a long weekend. It also facilitates domestic tourism while maintaining the commemoration’s historical significance, it said.

The holiday has been observed annually on August 21 as a commemoration of the assassination of Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr., a senator and opposition leader during the regime of Marcos's father, Ferdinand Marcos.

It is still considered a special non-working holiday despite the move. This suggests that employees who render work are paid 30% more for the day.

Marcos also directed the Department of Labor and Employment to issue a circular to implement the proclamation for the private sector.


Thursday, August 8, 2024

TZY celebrates ‘2000th day’ since debut with Filipino fans

 


Yeji, Ryujin, Chaeryong, and Yuna, sans Lia, of the South Korean girl group ITZY have recently returned to the country for a remarkable one-night show presented by JYP Entertainment and Live Nation Philippines. It coincides with the celebration of the 2,000th day since their debut. They have proven that they’re born to devour the concert stage with their second world tour, ‘Born To Be,’ in Manila at the Araneta Coliseum.


Lyka Nicart - The Philippine Star 

August 8, 2024 | 12:00am


Members Yeji, Ryujin, Chaeryong, and Yuna, sans Lia, returned to the country for a one-night show presented by JYP Entertainment and Live Nation Philippines, which coincided with the celebration of the 2000th day since their debut.

Lia has been on hiatus since September of last year due to health concerns. She is set to rejoin her fellow members in the second half of the year for the group’s new album.

A day prior to their Manila concert, Yeji, Chaeryong, and Yuna hooked the excitement of fans, also known as MIDZY, during the press event at the Glorietta Activity Center.

The crowd’s lively cheers at the press event had the girls recalling the first time they visited Manila for their “Checkmate” tour and how the warm reception gets them every time they return to the country.

“I think it’s an honor to meet our Manila MIDZY again… I can still remember a lot of energy that you’re giving to us during our ‘Checkmate’ world tour,” said the group leader Yeji.

The group's more than 20-song set list features hits and fan favorites.

“Whenever we come here, the passionate love that we have for MIDZY and also MIDZY to us, I guess that’s one of the things that we can relate to,” Yuna said, expressing their love for their Filipino fans.

Looking back on their first-ever world tour, “Checkmate,” the group related having learned “a lot” from the previous tour and highlighted their improvements since then for an even better concert experience for their fans this time.

“One of the differences that we can tell you, guys, is we have the band arrangements where you guys can actually enjoy more from our concert of this kind,” Chaeryeong said through an interpreter.

Ryujin also added, “We always talk about confidence, self-love and energy, so I think ‘Born To Be’ is a little more developed from then and is showing more strong vibe with a strong performance.”

True enough, the quartet made an enthralling opening performance accompanied by a live band as they set the stage on fire with an electrifying medley of Born To Be, Racer, and Kidding Me.

The girls take a selfie with their Filipino fans, also known as MIDZY.

ITZY’s heart-thumping choreography, dance breaks, and vocals laid bare their charisma and stage presence, making the fans go “LOCO” in a cycle of ear-deafening screams and displays of adoration throughout the show.

Their more than 20-song setlist featured their hits and fan favorites such as Not Shy, Wannabe, and Cake, as well as their solo tracks Chaeryeong (Mine), Ryujin (Run Away), Yuna (Yet, but), Yeji (Crown On My Head), from their Born To Be album that put a spotlight on their individual charms.

In between explosive performances, the girls also elated Filipino fans with a surprise dance cover of P-pop girl group sensation BINI’s viral hit Pantropiko, on stage. They even joined the BINI phenomenon with the members, mostly Chaeryeong, randomly uttering Bini member Sheena’s viral “eyyy” expression that goes with a “Y” hand sign.

BINI Mikha, a MIDZY herself, raved over ITZY’s cover of their song, writing “BEHHHHHHHH GOOOOOO,” in an X post.

ITZY also delighted Pinoy MIDZY with their Tagalog phrases “Sobrang nag-enjoy ako,” “Sabay tayo kumanta,” encouraging fans to sing along with them, and not to mention introducing themselves in the Filipino language.

Nearing the end of the show which lasted for nearly three hours, the members got emotional after watching a fanmade video surprise from Filo MIDZY that featured their throwback clips of their trainee days until becoming idols.

The group’s maknae, Yuna, started off congratulating fellow members and their fanbase, to mark their 2,000 days in the industry, as she reflected on having less time to work on herself during those period.

“There were days when I could not sleep, I could not rest and I could not even eat,” related the ITZY member.

But despite those challenges, Yuna is delighted to have shared the past years with their fans. She said, “The brightest smile I actually had is when I’m actually in front of MIDZY,” drawing cheers from the crowd.

Chaeryeong, meanwhile, expressed her gratitude to their fans’ unwavering support, which has fueled them to always do better: “Thank you so much for always cheering for us and also staying by our side.”

She also noted how she was pleased to see each and everyone’s faces and have fun on stage, saying it was a night she will truly cherish.


“Tonight will be an unforgettable night for me. Our Manila MIDZY, they never disappoint us,” she added, stressing that their Filo fans’ “passion, love, and cheers, are always off the roof,” sweetly ending her message with the words, “Mahal kita,” and “Salamat po.”


Ryujin, meanwhile, recalled how even their parents, who came to the the country to watch their first Manila concert over a year ago, were amazed by the Filipino fans’ energy.


“Whenever we come to Manila, we always look forward to you, guys, because you’re so enthusiastic, so I really looked forward to today, and it was perfect. Thank you,” Ryujin said in English.


Yeji, on the other hand, remarked, “Manila MIDZY are the best. While performing on stage, we really had fun and felt happy tonight because of you.”


“MIDZY always tells ITZY, ‘Thank you for always being there for us,’ but I wanna say back the words to you, guys. We actually thank you very much for always waiting for us and being there for us,” Yeji further addressed their Filipino fans.


As announced in a YouTube livestream commemorating their fanbase’s fifth anniversary last July, ITZY will release an upcoming album by the second half of the year with Lia rejoining the group after a health-related hiatus.



Davao City records 1.2 M tourist arrivals in 2023

BY IVY TEJANO


DAVAO CITY – The city government reported an increase in tourist arrivals here last year with 1,296,928 compared to the 897,406 in 2022.

DUTERTE SELFIE.jpg

DAVAO City Mayor Sebastian Duterte poses for a photo prior to his city address. (Photo via Ivy Tejano) 

Mayor Sebastian Duterte said in his State-of-the-City Address on Tuesday afternoon, August 6, that tourism here has steadily recovered since the pandemic.

Duterte said the Davao City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) supports the local tourism sector and tourism-related establishments.

As of 2023, the CTOO noted that 2,410 tourism establishments and service providers secured their certifications and licenses, a 7.81 percent increase from 1,985 in 2022.

The city also hosted 4,105 Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) events from June 2023 to May 2024, compared to the 2,156 the previous year.

Duterte cited the Duaw Davao Festival two months ago and the hosting of this year’s Ironman 70.3 competition. 

The local Chief Executive lauded the people here for being disciplined. He said that Davao City is a good city because of the good character of its people.

He said the D.C.plinado campaign launched in March contributed to fostering a culture of discipline among citizens.

Duterte noted that the campaign, which was passed and implemented by a city ordinance, was also integrated into the Department of Education (DepEd)-Davao curriculum.

“The success of legislation in the city, such as the smoking ban, liquor ban, and speed limit ordinance, is a testament to the discipline of Davaoeños,” Duterte said.

Duterte urged the people of Davao to continue exercising vigilance and report suspicious activities and concerns to proper government agencies.

Among the highlights of the SOCA were digitalization, peace and order, poverty alleviation, sustainable environment, agriculture and agri-business, infrastructure development, and education. 

Duterte cited the crucial role of the people of Davao City in managing solid waste, preserving trees, and protecting animals. He said the city does not support mining activities.

Rep. Paolo Duterte here backed and congratulated his brother, Mayor Duterte, and the people of Davao City for a job well done.

Rep. Duterte accompanied Mayor Duterte from the Sangguniang Panlungsod session hall to Rizal Park on San Pedro St. where he delivered his SOCA.

The lawmaker’s son, Omar Vincent Duterte, the chairman of Barangay Buhangin District here, also congratulated the local chief executive and vowed to support the city government.

“I am impressed with our city mayor because, despite the pressure that the city is going through and how busy he is, he consistently prioritized the needs of the people in this city,” Omar said.

Also in attendance during the SOCA were Rep. Duterte’s wife, January, the Barangay Catalunan Grande chieftain, the 11 tribal leaders here, and city council members. 

Dani Barretto on hiring sister Julia Barretto for endorsement: May discount naman

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA


AT A GLANCE

  • The celebrity sisters also talked about what they have learned from each other in running businesses.


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Julia Barretto (left) and elder sister Dani Barretto (Nice Print Photography)

Young entrepreneur and social media influencer Dani Barretto mentioned she was excited to hire her younger sister actress Julia Barretto for an endorsement of a health product, but also clarified that she paid her sister's talent fee.

During the recent contract signing at the Seda Hotel in Quezon City, Dani said that paying her sister's talent fee for an endorsement for Wellness Whispers was a way of expressing her respect for her sister's profession.

"Milestone sa akin ito dahil nabayaran ko yung kapatid ko. Binigyan naman ako ng family rate pero mahal pa rin," said Dani as she laughed. 

(This is a milestone for me because I was able to pay my sister. I was given a family rate but it's still expensive.)

Dani added: "But I'm so glad because she was part of the process. She was the first one who tried the different variants of my brand. Now we're here. It's my way of respecting her craft. Hindi siya nag papalibre at talagang bibili s'ya. Sa mga endorsement niya bumibili rin ako so we support each other's endorsements and talents. Swerte ko dahil kapatid ko siya. So happy na ako sa discount. Fair naman at hindi ako lugi."

PET03855.jpg
Dani and Julia

(But I'm so glad because she was part of the process. She was the first one who tried the different variants of my brand. Now we're here. It's my way of respecting her craft. We buy from each other's endorsements so we support each other. I'm lucky because she's my sister. I think the agreement was fair.)

"Noong nag-inquire naman ko sa kanila, binigyan nila ako ng discount. Dumaan ako sa process. Nag-inquire talaga ako sa Viva Artists Agency, Inc. I really went through the process. Hindi porke family kayo wala ng process. Puwede rin naman siyang kunin ng ibang tao at babayaran din siya. So I have to respect that," she said. 

(When I inquired with them, they gave me a discount. I went through the process. I really inquired with Viva Artists Agency, Inc. So I have to respect that.)

Dani, who has launched successful businesses, said she felt proud she was able to sign her sister for an endorsement. "The best thing I could ask for in her endorsement is to request a discount, and it's okay."

Dani said her sister Julia was shocked when she offered her an endorsement.

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Dani Barretto 

"She was shocked. It was a cute reaction. Sabi niya, 'What?' 'Wow!' Thank you, I'm so honored. So parang natuwa pa siya noong naisip ko s'ya. It's like a no-brainer talaga. Para sa akin hindi ko na kailangan maghanap ng iba because she knows me so well. She knows my work ethic and my brand. So she's the better representation of it. She also cares for her well-being, especially at this time," she said.

On her relationship with Julia, Dani said: "We're very close. Isang bagay yan na proud ako because yung mommy ko, bata pa lang kami, close na kaming magkakapatid. Sa kanya talaga ako nag-practice na maging ate at maging responsible."

Dani and Julia are two of five children of actress Marjorie Barretto. In her relationships with the four siblings, the young entrepreneur mentioned that she never had any rivalry with them. 

"Wala po talaga. Isang bagay yan na proud talaga ako. We never fought anything regarding work kasi magka-iba naman kami ng mga ginagawa. Ang subling rivalry yata nangyayari lang yan kapag may mga interest kayo na nagka-clash. Wala talaga kaming ganun. Kung may tinatanong siya about her business, she asks for my help. 

"My siblings put me on a high pedestal. They respect my opinions. I'm the eldest," said Dani, who has a four-year age gap with Julia. "We are each other's confidants. Like halimbawa kung wala kaming mga kaibigan, kami-kami pa rin ang mga magkakaibigan. I'm glad that my mother raised us that way," she added.

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Julia Barretto 

Dani, who is seven months pregnant, mentioned that she enjoys running businesses and believes it is her strong suit.

"Hindi ko talaga alam kung saan ko nakukuha ang inspiration to do business pero meron lang talaga akong drive sa sarili ko. This is what I want to be and this is what I want to do. May ugali rin ako na go-getter ako eh na kung kaya ko, gagawin ko. 

"Kapag hindi ko kaya, hindi ko na pipilitin. Hindi ko na gagawin. Dapat alam mo rin kung ano yung strength and weaknesses mo. Alam ko na may ibubuga naman ako sa field na ito," she said.

Wellness Whispers by Dani Barretto are meticulously crafted products designed to champion holistic well-being, integrating high-quality ingredients that cater to both physical and mental health.

On her latest endorsement, Julia said: "I can't believe this is happening (with my sister). I'm flattered and grateful. I'm so proud of her. Before it was launched, we talked about her journey in creating the brand."

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Dani Barretto and husband Xavi Panlilio

Dani said her mom Marjorie was also proud of her latest achievement. "My mom couldn't be here so she told me to take lots of photos."

The celebrity sisters also talked about what they have learned from each other in running businesses.

"She's so driven and maabilidad. She just loves to innovate. She has a vision and she wants to make it happen. That's something I wish I had more of.  That part of her when making her dreams into a reality," said Julia.

For Dani, she said: "I value their taste and quality of how they take care of themselves. So ako I'm into inner beauty so I ask her ano ba ang kailangan kong gawin sa business na ito and I value that so much." 

Wellness Whispers

Founded by Dani Barretto in 2024, Wellness Whispers has quickly emerged as a leading innovator in the health and wellness beverage industry.  Dani said:

"Our mission is to craft high-quality, nutrient-rich drinks that not only taste great but also promote physical and mental well-being. Wellness Whispers believes that everyone deserves a convenient and enjoyable way to enhance their health, which is why our products are designed with the finest natural ingredients to support a balanced lifestyle.

"At Wellness Whispers, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what wellness beverages can achieve. Each of our drinks is carefully formulated to deliver essential nutrients and great flavors, making it easier for our customers to integrate health-boosting habits into their daily routines. 

"Whether you're looking to boost your energy, improve your focus, or simply enjoy a refreshing and nourishing drink, Wellness Whispers is your go-to source for innovative wellness solutions."

Of festival and environment



Living in Davao City permanently since 1999, I observed  the Kadayawan Festival becoming more and more attractive and enjoyable. I spoke with many expats who kept on praising  this festival  and its credible atmosphere. Yes, Kadayawan is indeed a fest of sorts and indeed a contribution to the development of my second (and last!) home. 


The City Government of Davao will be launching the Pananam sa Kadayawan Food and Products Fair, a new activity for the festival, to showcase the different delicacies and products of Davao City’s 11 ethnolinguistic tribes.City Tourism Operations Office Head and special friend  Jennifer Romero, during the ISpeak Media Forum, said that for this year’s Kadayawan Festival, they wanted to highlight the mouthwatering food and products crafted by the 11 tribes through the Pananam which will run from August 9 to August 18.


"Ang atoang tumong ani is to showcase kung unsa ‘tong mga pagkaon na gina-offer sa atoang 11 tribes para ang atoang mga bisita ug ang mga Dabawenyo can also be immersed sa mga foods and products na gina-offer sa atoang 11 tribes (We want to showcase the foods that the 11 tribes has to offer, and immerse both the visitors of the City and the Dabawenyos to the food and products of the 11 tribes),” she said.

Romero added that a mega tent will be set up in the middle of Magsaysay Park in the Kadayawan Village where the 11 ethnolinguistic tribes will display their food and products.“We will be providing stalls sa 11 tribes para i-showcase nila ang ila’ng mga food specialties ug ilahang products in time for the entire stretch of our Kadayawan (We will be providing them with stalls where they can display their food specialties and products for the entire duration of Kadayawan),” she further said.

Deputy Pamikiren Latip P. Arumpac Jr., Deputy Mayor of the Bangsa Iranun, assured the public that although majority of their products will be displayed in the Pananam, the houses in the Kadayawan Village will continue displaying some of their food and products.Dabawenyos and visitors alike are invited to take part in a feast of flavors in the Pananam sa Kadayawan, and to buy of the products crafted by the 11 tribes during the event.The 39th Kadayawan Festival will officially open on August 8, 2024. 

With global warming and climate change a very real phenomenon we need to look to our indigenous people for wisdom and guidance.

𝐋𝐞𝐭'𝐬 𝐤𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫!