PHILIPPINE PROVINCES AND IT IS BEST KNOWN FOR!🇵🇭

PHILIPPINE PROVINCES AND IT IS BEST KNOWN FOR!

Cebu City– Oldest City in the Philippines; Gateway to a Thousand Journeys

Davao City – Largest City in the Philippines; Fruit Basket and King City of the South

Aklan – Oldest province in the Philippines

Iloilo – Province with most number of barangays

Negros Occidental – Province with most number of cities

Palawan – Largest Province in the Philippines

Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro – Largest Municipality in the Philippines

Miagao, Iloilo – Municipality with most number of barangays, Onion Capital of Visayas

Nueva Ecija – Rice Granary of the Philippines

Pampanga – Culinary Capital of the Philippines

Marinduque – Heart of the Philippines

Iloilo City – The First queen City of the South, City where the Past is always present

Dumaguete – City of Gentle People

Cagayan de Oro – City of Golden Friendship

Quezon City – City of Stars and New Horizons

Manila – Ever Distinguished Loyal City

Roxas City – Seafood Capital of the Philippines

Antique – Province where the mountain meets the sea

Negros Occidental – Sugar Bowl

Romblon – Marble Capital

Rizal – Cradle of Philippine Arts

Cavite – Cradle of Phil. Revolution

La Union – Surfing Capital of the North

Biliran – Shipyard of Antiquity

Camiguin – Island Born of Fire

Bacoor – Band Capital of the Philippines

Gen. San City – Tuna Capital

Isulan – Oil Palm Capital of the Philippines

Pangasinan – Saltmaking Capital

Negros Occidental – Sugar Bowl

Romblon – Marble Capital

Rizal – Cradle of Philippine Arts

Cavite – Cradle of Phil. Revolution

La Union – Surfing Capital of the North

Biliran – Shipyard of Antiquity

Camiguin – Island Born of Fire

Siquijor – Island of Fire

Makati – Manhattan of the Philippines

Marikina – Shoe Capital of the Philippines

Masbate – Great Wild West of Phil.

Tarlac – Melting Pot of Central Luzon

Bataan – History Hub of Central Luzon

Bulacan – Manila’s Gateway to the North

Palawan – Philippines’ Last Frontier

Guimaras – Mango County of Visayas

Manduluyong – Shopping Capital

Muntinlupa – The Emerald City

Valenzuela – The Only Divided City

Lanao del Sur – Cradle of Muslim Art

South Cotabato – Conference Capital of Mindanao

Dinagat Island – Mystical Province of Love

Surigao del Norte – Surfing Capital

Batangas – Diving and Shipping Capital

Batanes – Land of True Insulars

Quirino – Forest Heartland of Cagayan Valley

Zambales – Chromite Capital

Aurora – Land of Golden Sunrise

Zamboanga del Norte – Province of South’s Twin City

Bukidnon – Pineapple Capital

Eastern Samar – Gateway to Phil. Discovery

Cam Sur – Wakeboarding Capital

Lanao del Norte – Land of Beauty and Bounty

Pateros – Balut Capital

San Juan – Tiangge Capital

Navotas – Fishing Capital of Greater Manila

Laguna – The Silicon Valley

Catanduanes – Land of the Howling Wind

Maguindanao – Seat of Muslim Mindanao

Sitangkai, Tawi Tawi – Venice of the South

Cotabato – Land of Mightiest Mountain

Neg. Oriental – Whale and Dolphin Haven

Paranaque – Fashion Capital

Pasay – Travel Capital

Lucena, Quezon – Biofuel & Biopalm City

Samar – Spelunking Capital

Davao del Norte – Durian and Banana Capital

Baguio City – Summer Capital/ City of Pines

San Fernando, Pampanga – Lantern Capital

Misamis Occidental – Christmas Capital of Mindanao

Benguet – Salad Bowl of the Philippines

Kalinga – White Rafting Capital of the North

Isabela – Rice Granary of the North

Nueva Vizcaya – Watershed Haven of Cagayan Valley

Ilocos Sur – Heritage Haven of the Far North

Oriental Mindoro – Harbor Gateway to the South

Agusan del Norte – Land of Antiquated Finds

Tacloban City – City of Hope

Tagbilaran – City of Peace and Friendship

Tuguegarao – Premier Ybanag City

Butuan – Timber City of the South

Gingoog – City of Good Luck

Dapitan – Shrine and Historic City of the South

Pagadian – Little Hong Kong of the South

Zamboanga City – Asias Latin City, Sardines Capital, City of Flowers

Mati – Coconut City of the South

Catbalogan – City of Captivating Contrast

Tagum – Music Capital of the South

Sulu – Land of Exotic Fruits

Bacolod – City of Smiles

Passi – Sweet City at the Heart of Panay

Antipolo – City in the Sky

Calbayog – City of Waterfalls

Las Pinas – Salt Center of Metro Manila

Taguig – The ProvinSyudad

Valenzuela – Vibrant City of Discipline

Maasin City, Southern Leyte – The Religious City

Lingayen – The Most Romantic Place

Alimodian, Iloilo – Banana Capital of Panay

Dagupan – Bangus Capital

La Trinidad, Benguet – Strawberry Capital

Cauayan, Isabela – Mushroom City of the North

Donsol, Sorsogon – World’s Whale Shark Capital

Legazpi – City of Fun and Adventure; ATV capital

Naga – Bicols Queen City

Mandaue, Cebu – Furniture Capital

Borongan – King City of the East

Dipolog – The Phil. Orchid City

Gutalac, Zamboanga Norte – Pebble Capital

El Salvador, Misamis Oriental – City of Divine Mercy

Iligan – industrial City of the South

Pototan, Iloilo – Christmas Capital of Visayas

Lantapan, Bukidnon – Vegetable Basket of Mindanao

Malaybalay, Bukidnon – Summer Capital of the South

Oroquieta – City of Good Life

Digos – Clay Capital of Mindanao

Malita – Banana Capital of Davao

Samal – Phil. Island Garden City

Kidapawan – City at the foot of Mt Apo

Koronadal – Ilonggo City of the South

El Nido – Heaven on Earth

Puerto Galera – Poors man Boracay

Puerto Princesa – EcoTourism Capital

Cainta, Rizal – Bibingka Capital

Calamba – Hot Spring Capital

Imus – The Philippine Flag Capital

Lipa, Batangas – City of Pride

Molo, Iloilo – Athens of the Philippines

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Say goodbye to paper: Philippines' new banknotes are here!

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Dec 19, 2024 05:44 PM 

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has introduced the First Philippine Polymer (FPP) Banknote Series featuring enhanced security and durability, which will be available in circulation starting the first quarter of 2025.

On Thursday, Dec. 19, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the unveiling of the FPP series in a ceremony at the President’s Hall in Malacañan Palace. The polymer banknotes are in denominations of P500, P100, and P50. 

 

The BSP previously announced that these polymer banknotes will circulate alongside the existing paper banknotes. The new series boasts "smarter, cleaner and stronger" features.

"Unlike the current paper banknotes, which showcase the country’s heroes and natural wonders, the polymer series highlights the Philippines’ rich biodiversity," the BSP said in a Facebook post.

"This shift reflects the BSP’s commitment to promoting national pride through numismatic artistry while fostering an appreciation of Filipino identity,” the central bank added. 

The BSP added that the polymer banknotes offer several practical benefits, including enhanced resistance to counterfeiting and improved durability.

"These features ensure that the new notes are not only aesthetically significant but also cost-efficient and secure," the BSP noted.

The best gift we can give the next generation: A better future

BY ANNA MAE LAMENTILLO

Dec 20, 2024 00:54 AM 

NIGHT OWL

I’m writing this far away from home, sitting in Oxford, still carrying the awe of last night’s Advent carols at University College. It started in complete darkness—a deliberate reminder of the darkness in the world and the need for Christ. The first notes of “The Advent Prose,” drawn from traditional Advent liturgical texts and paired with Judith Weir’s hauntingly beautiful music, filled the space. Then came the familiar and stirring  “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” and “This is the Truth” by R. Vaughan Williams. It was solemn, uplifting, and deeply moving.

Being at Univ, as University College is affectionately called, added another layer of reflection. This college has seen centuries of history, starting small with just four theology Fellows. Over time, through benefactors and determination, it grew into one of Oxford’s leading institutions. From its medieval roots to admitting women in 1979, Univ’s journey is one of perseverance and progress. It’s a powerful reminder of how legacies are built over time—a theme that resonates with what we can leave for future generations.
 

A world worth inheriting

What does it mean to leave a better future? For me, it’s imagining a world where clean air is a given, where the oceans aren’t choked with plastic, and where forests thrive alongside human progress. It’s about creating societies where education, healthcare, and opportunity are not privileges but rights—regardless of where you’re born. It’s a future where diversity is celebrated, justice is upheld, and collective well-being takes precedence over personal gain.

This might sound idealistic, but it’s not out of reach. The choices we make today—big and small—can shape the trajectory of the world we’ll pass on.
 

Investing in sustainability

If there’s one thing we owe the next generation, it’s a livable planet. Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it’s here. Rising temperatures, extreme weather, and the loss of biodiversity are realities impacting millions. Tackling this starts with prioritizing sustainability.

That might mean embracing renewable energy, reducing waste, or choosing businesses that prioritize green practices. It means rethinking the way we consume and advocate for policies that put the planet first. Even small actions—walking instead of driving, cutting down on single-use plastics—add up when multiplied across communities. Together, these choices can secure a future where nature and humanity coexist in harmony.
 

Nurturing education

Education is one of the most powerful tools we can offer the next generation. But it’s not just about traditional learning; it’s about equipping young people with critical thinking skills, digital literacy, and an understanding of how interconnected the world is.

Innovation, too, has a central role. Technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), renewable energy systems, and biotechnology hold incredible promise. But they must be guided by ethics and inclusivity. When innovation serves the greater good and not just a privileged few, it can truly transform societies.
 

Championing equity and justice

A better future is one where everyone has the chance to thrive. That means addressing inequalities rooted in gender, race, and socioeconomic status. It means amplifying voices that have long been ignored and crafting policies that reflect the needs of all communities—not just the elite.

Equity and justice aren’t just moral imperatives; they’re the bedrock of stable, peaceful societies. By fostering empathy, understanding, and collaboration, we can build communities that stand strong in the face of division and conflict.

The role of hope and action

Hope is powerful. But hope without action is just wishful thinking. The greatest gift we can give future generations is not just the vision of a better world but the tangible steps to achieve it. This means taking responsibility—for our consumption, our votes, our voices. It means holding leaders accountable and inspiring others to join the cause.
The path forward isn’t without challenges. But it’s a journey worth taking. By planting the seeds of change today, we can nurture a future where the next generation looks back with gratitude, knowing we chose to act when it mattered most.
 

A gift beyond measure

As we exchange gifts this season, let’s remember the one that can’t be wrapped or placed under a tree. It’s a legacy of hope, progress, and possibility. A better future isn’t just a gift for the next generation; it’s a responsibility we all share.

So let’s give generously—not just to those we know, but to those who will inherit this world. Together, we can create a future that is brighter, kinder, and more just. And that, above all, is the ultimate gift.

Billboard reveals 10 highest-grossing K-pop tours in 2024

BY JONATHAN HICAP

Dec 19, 2024 11:47 AM 

Billboard unveiled the top 10 K-pop artists who grossed the highest from their concert tours in 2024. 

“Less than 10 years since the first K-pop group landed on the all-genre Top Tours chart (BigBang in 2015), Korean acts continue to expand their global footprint in arenas and stadiums worldwide. And with BTS and BLACKPINK both off-cycle, each of which has previously ranked among the top 10 regardless of genre, a slate of idol groups are scoring career-high grosses and a crop of newer acts making their first year-end chart entries,” according to Billboard. 

Based on the Billboard Boxscore charts, in 2024, the top 10 K-pop artists raked in  $329.2 million from tours. 

“Another caveat is that year-end Boxscore charts are based on reported figures. This affects all genres, but especially K-pop, as many artists have limited reporting, especially when it comes to shows in Asia,” the report added. 

The top 10 K-pop acts consisted of five boy bands and five female artists. The top 3 places were occupied by HYBE artists. 

The reported figures were based on shows worldwide from Oct. 1, 2023 to Sept. 30, 2024. 

Seventeen emerged as the No. 1 top-grossing K-pop act, raking in $98.4 million from 24 shows that sold 865,000 tickets. 

Seventeen (Pledis Entertainment)

ENHYPEN (X)

Tomorrow X Together (Pledis Entertainment)

ATEEZ (KQ Entertainment) 

TWICE (X)

ENHYPEN placed second, grossing $63 million from 36 shows with 407,000 tickets sold. They are No. 50 on the Boxscore All-Genre Chart. 

Tomorrow X Together grabbed third place with $58.1 million in gross from 26 shows and 453,000 tickets. They are No. 52 overall. 

Boy band ATEEZ under KQ Entertainment ranked fourth with $37.6 million in gross from 13 shows with 192,000 tickets sold. They ranked 83rd overall. 

Girl group TWICE of JYP Entertainment placed fifth with $24.2 million in gross with 220,000 tickets sold from five shows. 

Here are the 10 top-grossing K-pop tours in 2024 based on Billboard Boxscore year-end charts: 

1. SEVENTEEN

Gross: $98.4M

Attendance: 865,000 tickets

Shows: 24

All-Genre Rank: No. 31

 

2. ENHYPEN

Gross: $63M

Attendance: 407,000 tickets

Shows: 36

All-Genre Rank: No. 50

 

3. TOMORROW X TOGETHER

Gross: $58.1M

Attendance: 453,000 tickets

Shows: 26

All-Genre Rank: No. 52

 

4. ATEEZ

Gross: $37.6M

Attendance: 192,000 tickets

Shows: 13

All-Genre Rank: No. 83

 

5. TWICE

Gross: $24.2M

Attendance: 220,000 tickets

Shows: 5

All-Genre Rank: N/A

 

6. IU

Gross: $16.6M

Attendance: 92,600 tickets

Shows: 8

All-Genre Rank: N/A

 

7. IVE

Gross: $10.8M

Attendance: 92,900 tickets

Shows: 10

All-Genre Rank: N/A

 

8. NCT Dream

Gross: $7.8M

Attendance: 59,800 tickets

Shows: 8

All-Genre Rank: N/A

 

9. (G)I-DLE

Gross: $6.7M

Attendance: 46,500 tickets

Shows: 6

All-Genre Rank: N/A

 

10. ITZY

Gross: $6M

Attendance: 56,200 tickets

Shows: 8

All-Genre Rank: N/A

IU (X)

IVE (X/Mama)

NCT Dream (X)(G)I-DLE (X/Mama)

ITZY (X)

On-Point Dance Club features 'Flashback Fridays'

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Dec 19, 2024 04:25 PM 

AT A GLANCE

• Relive the iconic hits from the '70s, '80s, '90s, and 2000s in a celebration of timeless tunes and unforgettable dance moves.

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Regine Tolentino

Get ready for an unforgettable dance journey through the best music eras as Flashback Retrobar presents “Flashback Fridays: Saturday Rewind” in On Point Dance Club this December.

Relive the iconic hits from the '70s, '80s, '90s, and 2000s in a celebration of timeless tunes and unforgettable dance moves.'

Salas Brothers

Catch special guests as Dance Diva” Regine Tolentino sets the stage on fire with her performance this Dec. 20.

You can also end the year with a bang as Jim and James of the Salas Brothers from the legendary Universal Motion Dancers (UMD) perform their iconic moves of the ‘90s LIVE on Dec. 27.

On Point Dance Club is located at 205 Tomas Morato Ave., Brgy. Laging Handa, Quezon City.

Geneva Cruz drops first holiday single 'When Christmas Comes'

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Dec 19, 2024 00:28 AM 

AT A GLANCE

• Through the past holidays, Geneva continues to romanticize the holidays for all its usual trimmings and trappings.

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Geneva Cruz

Pop songstress Geneva Cruz ushers in the holiday season with the timely release of her very first Christmas song, ‘When Christmas Comes.’

Barely a week since its soft launch on her social media platforms last Nov. 24, the catchy, upbeat tune has caught the attention of her fans and close showbiz friends, who all generously welcomed it with a resounding thumbs up.

It’s just a matter of time before the feel-good ditty becomes another anthemic OPM hit that kicks off the start of our long holiday season. 

She shares, “I’ve always been a huge Christmas fan! I love the traditions, movies, music, and what it stands for — love, peace, and joy for everyone!”

The Smokey Mountain alumna reveals her primary motivation for writing the song, which she initially attempted starting last year.

She shares, “What motivated me was love. I discovered the perfect inspiration, and along with my passion for Christmas, everything just came together.”  

“Last year was my first attempt at creating a Christmas song, so I reached out to my good friend Dan Gil, who is one of Maestro Ryan Cayabyab’s top students who also played for Smokey Mountain's major concert in Araneta Coliseum in December of 1990. But we couldn’t create.

Creation is all about inspiration and timing. I guess the timing wasn’t right then.” “Fast forward to this year… I went to Dan’s place, sat in front of his computer, and started typing. After I wrote the song, he worked on the melody and arrangement, and ‘When Christmas Comes’ was born.”

“So, I wrote it first, Dan came up with the melody, and arranged it. Apparently, this isn’t Geneva’s first attempt at songwriting.

She clarifies, “I’ve composed some songs that have been part of my past albums, starting from my first solo album when I was 15. Some of the songs I did include ‘Love Can Wait,’ ‘To Manila,’ ‘Love Is Here,’ ‘Set You Free,’ and ‘Peace.’ Writing has always been an outlet of mine. I’ve written more and composed the melodies on my unused files.”

Asked to elaborate on her Christmas song’s theme, she expounds, "When Christmas Comes’ is about a woman catching feelings for her ex, who is currently long-distance. She eagerly awaits his arrival and is excited about seeing him again. The ex-partners share similar feelings and plan Christmas adventures, including riding Santa’s sleigh, enjoying formal dinners, and having fun together.” 

Through the past holidays, Geneva continues to romanticize the holidays for all its usual trimmings and trappings.

She muses, “I’m pretty old school. I’ve had wonderful memories of Christmas. My parents, especially my late mom, made the holidays special for my sisters and me. She cooked the most delicious food and took us shopping for new dresses and shoes, which I used to keep beside me while I slept. Haha!”

Asked to pick her favorite Christmas songs, her top three include Johnny Mathis’ ‘We Need A Little Christmas, the Jackson 5’s Christmas record, and not surprisingly, Jose Mari Chan’s ‘Christmas In Our Hearts.’

As a fledgling songwriter, does she feel privileged working with Ryan, whose legacy as National Artist for Music is without peer?

She says, “There is a wealth of ideas from the maestro, but only one Mr. C. While I can strive to emulate his work ethic and passion for songwriting and the arts, I must develop my own style.

Each artist has unique tricks and styles, and we are responsible for expressing our colors to the world.

Geneva feels just as proud in conceptualizing the song’s music video, and thanks good friend, prolific director and Smokey Mountain alumnus Jeffrey Hidalgo, for being part of it.

“One of my besties, Jeffrey Hidalgo, directed the music video, and I’m truly grateful to him and the whole creative team. The video was my concept. We made it snow in QC! Hahaha!”

Aside from her regular concert sorties and TV guestings, Geneva continues to be the epitome of fitness and women empowerment through her wellness endorsements. She remains committed to her duties and responsibilities as a proud reservist Sergeant of the Philippine Air Force Reserve Command.

Check out ‘When Christmas Comes’ on Spotify and Geneva’s official YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook platforms.