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Friday, August 11, 2023
Hey there sports fans ...
August orchid of the Month: Waling-waling, the queen of Philippine flowers
BY JAMES TABABA
The waling-waling orchid, scientifically known as Vanda sanderiana, is a stunning and highly prized orchid species native to the Philippines. Also referred to as the "Queen of Philippine Flowers," the waling-waling orchid is renowned for its exceptional beauty and unique characteristics.
The waling-waling orchid typically blooms during the months of June to August, although there may be some variations in blooming periods depending on specific growing conditions and environmental factors. This period is considered the peak flowering season for the waling-waling orchid.
The waling-waling orchid exhibits various forms, each with its unique charm. The froebeliana variety showcases a dark coloration while the albata exhibit lighter hues with purplish markings. Additionally, there is the alba, which was artificially induced through intensive inbreeding in Hawaii, resulting in green and yellow forms. The diversity of waling-waling varieties contributes to its immense popularity among orchid enthusiasts.
This orchid species has a monopodial growth habit, meaning it grows vertically, with a single stem that produces leaves and flowers along its length. The leaves are long, narrow, and leathery, providing an elegant backdrop to the remarkable blooms.
Due to its beauty, the waling-waling orchid has become a foundation for breeding programs. Its bloodline has been utilized to develop other vanda orchids with desirable traits such as vigorous growth and large, round flowers. While the waling-waling's own flower characteristics may not be strongly inherited by its progenies, its robust vegetative properties are often passed down.
The waling-waling orchid is indigenous to the foothills of Mount Apo in the province of Davao, located on the island of Mindanao. While the waling-waling orchid's natural range is predominantly in Davao, it can also be found in other regions of Mindanao such as Maguindanao, South Cotabato, and possibly Basilan.
Cultivation and care
As a tropical flower, the waling-waling orchid flourishes in warm environments and does not thrive in cool climates. It has been extensively propagated, leading to a significant global population. However, its rarity is still recognized due to the challenges of finding it in its natural habitat, mainly due to intensive collection and poaching. To cultivate waling-waling successfully, understanding its specific requirements is crucial.
Waling-waling orchids prefer bright, indirect sunlight, mimicking their natural habitat under the shade of trees. Care should be taken to prevent direct exposure to sunlight during the summer months, which can lead to leaf burning. Adequate watering is vital, considering its tropical origins. Daily watering is recommended, especially in regions with high humidity. The root tips should appear fleshy, green, or purple, indicating sufficient hydration. Watering should be done before 4 PM to allow excess water to evaporate, reducing the risk of diseases and root rot.
Providing the waling-waling orchid with proper nutrition is essential for its healthy growth. Regular fertilizer application during watering, once a week, helps supply essential nutrients. Additionally, ensuring adequate air circulation is crucial. Spacing individual waling-waling plants apart prevents the spread of diseases, and the leaves should not touch each other, allowing free airflow.
Waling-waling orchids naturally grow on tree trunks, making it beneficial to provide a potting medium for them to cling onto, such as wood or bark. While they can survive without a medium, their survival is more reliant on careful watering and regular fertilizer application, as they have no alternative moisture source. Utilizing potting media can encourage keiki production and reduce maintenance efforts. Keiki is an offshoot plant that develops on the stem or base of the parent orchid. However, for those with limited resources and space, hanging the orchid using wire or vanda baskets with charcoal or wood can also be suitable as long as the growth remains upright.
One intriguing characteristic of the waling-waling orchid is its propensity to produce keikis, which are offshoots that sap nutrients from the mother plant. To prevent the decline of the mother plant, it is recommended to separate the keikis individually before they start affecting the parent's vitality. The waling-waling orchid is widely propagated commercially and readily available in the market, making it accessible to enthusiasts and collectors.
The waling-waling orchid, with its noble beauty and intriguing characteristics, holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos. There have been movements and discussions advocating for the Waling-waling to be recognized as the national flower of the Philippines. Despite challenges in establishing it as the national flower, its cultural significance remains undeniable. With proper care and understanding of its tropical requirements, enthusiasts can cultivate and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the waling-waling orchid. Its varied forms, captivating blooms, and rich history continue to inspire awe and admiration, making it a treasured gem of the Philippines.
Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin Agriculture
Thursday, August 10, 2023
Alex Eala to compete in W25 Roehampton this week
AT A GLANCE
Alex Eala continues her quest for a fourth singles pro title when she competes in the W25 Roehampton in Great Britain this week.
Alex Eala continues her quest for a fourth singles pro title when she competes in the W25 Roehampton in Great Britain this week.
The 18-year-old is seeded sixth in the $25,000 International Tennis Federation (ITF) tournament and is scheduled to see action both in the singles and doubles events.
She is set to open her singles campaign against Australian qualifier Gabriella Da Silva Fick, who survived France’s Julie Belgraver, 7-5, 7-6 (3), and Japan’s Naho Sato, 6-2, 4-6, 10-3, to make it to the main draw.
This would be the first time that Eala is meeting Fick in the ITF pro circuit.
Though Fick has yet to win an ITF pro singles crown, the 22-year-old British has won five doubles titles including two this year with different partners in W40 Proto and W25 Monzon events.
Meanwhile, Eala is partnering with Australian Destanee Aiava in the doubles where they are slated to battle Japanese duo Naho Sato and Eri Shimizu in the opening round.
Adamson clips reigning UAAP champion La Salle with stunning come-from-behind win
AT A GLANCE
Adamson clipped reigning UAAP champion La Salle with a stunning 22-25, 25-17, 17-25, 27-25, 16-14 come-from-behind win in Game 1 of the Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals finale on Wednesday, Aug. 9, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
Adamson clipped reigning UAAP champion La Salle with a stunning 22-25, 25-17, 17-25, 27-25, 16-14 come-from-behind win in Game 1 of the Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals finale on Wednesday, Aug. 9, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
The Lady Falcons gave the Lady Spikers a dose of their own medicine, erasing a huge 11-20 deficit in the fourth set before pulling through by a whisker in the clincher to move on the brink of capturing the first SSL national title.
Skipper Lucille Almonte kept Adamson afloat all throughout with 24 points on three aces and a block while super rookie Red Bascon delivered when it mattered the most, none bigger than her back-to-back hits to finish with seven points and clinch it for the Lady Falcons.
Ayesha Juegos had 13 points while Sharya Nicole Ancheta and Lorene Toring added 10 apiece in the well-balanced attack of Adamson under new mentor JP Yude.
“Lagi ko kasing sinasabi sa kanila, may tiwala ako sa kanila. Kaya I always encourage them, especially nung 4th set, down kami, sabi ko ‘di pa tapos ‘yung laban. ‘Di pa naman 25. Sabi ko isa-isahin natin. Tyagain natin,” said Yude, a former Adamson player, in his first tournament since taking over from Jerry Yee in June.
“Siguro, na-absorb nila yun. Siguro nakita din nila sa akin, for me, ‘di pa talo. Ayusin nyo yung mga mukha nyo, yung body language nyo. Hindi pa tapos ‘yung laban. Siguro nakita nila yung eagerness na i-push sila.”
La Salle, riding on a five-set win against the University of Santo Tomas from a 1-2 deficit including multiple match points saved, looked headed into an easy four-set win against Adamson by building what seemed an insurmountable 20-11 lead off a Thea Gagate hit.
But Adamson simply refused to go down and quit.
With Almonte setting the tone, the Lady Falcons launched a killer 11-1 rally capped by Ancheta’s quick attack in the middle to snatch the driver seat at 22-21.
Both teams traded blows from there on, with each one reaching match point, before Bascon unloaded two straight hits for a 27-25 win to extend the match to the fifth set.
As they figured in a back-and-forth decider anew, Bascon would not shy away from the big stage by hammering through another back-to-back attack for Adamson’s great escape act.
Shevana Laput rifled in a tournament-high of 30 points, Thea Gagate and Alleiah Malaluan added 14 points while Baby Jyne Soreño had 11 points but La Salle still absorbed its first defeat in the 12-team SSL presented by Eurotel as the official hotel and Victory Liner as office transport provider, and in cooperation with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
Wednesday, August 9, 2023
Return to Shangri-la
Makati Shangri-La rises again
AT A GLANCE
‘Makati Shangri-La, Manila is an iconic landmark that has long been woven into the rich history of Makati City. For the past three decades, the hotel has provided a tranquil sanctuary within the city’s bustling business district.’
It was at the height of the pandemic when the news of Makati Shangri-la ceasing its operations broke out. What a mighty blow it was, to see such a prestigious facility that had been providing top-notch service since 1993 close its doors. Imagine then, the warmth it brings within, to hear the words “welcome back” from hotel staff upon arriving at a pre-opening lunch just days before it formally opened its doors to the public on August 8.
As soon as you stepped into the lobby, you would feel like revisiting an old friend, feeling an immediate warmth rush over you. Without the expected hustle and bustle that comes with a five-star hotel, walking along its then-empty halls felt peaceful. One can only imagine how lively it will be once people start walking through its doors once more.
burnt eggplant, and pickled cauliflower
mashed potatoes, onion jam, and a watercress salad
beef tongue, and pecorino cheese
For lunch, a special treat was prepared at Shangri-la’s signature Sage Grill. What started it off was a delight of tuna tartare, soft and delicate and buttery, followed by a generous serving of pappardelle pasta tossed with a ragout Angus beef sauce and topped with pecorino cheese. The main course was a juicy Westholme Wagyu ribeye steak paired with creamy mashed potatoes, a sweet onion jam, and a watercress salad. Finishing it all off, a plate of mint pannacotta plus raspberry sauce and various berries. It was a tremendous lunch that provided a brilliant taste of what was to come as Makati Shangri-la prepared for the relaunch of its dining establishments as well.
Mouthwatering thoughts enter the mind when thinking about Shang Palace and its revamped menu. It will consist of eight new signature dishes designed to showcase the very best of Cantonese cuisine. Other dining establishments such as Circles Event Café and Sage Bar are also expected to return, offering guests a wide array of options that will cater to their cravings.
Present at the lunch were Makati Shangri-la hotel manager Udo Wittich and vice president of operations in the Philippines and general manager John Rice.
Both were lively fellows who spoke highly of the new services and features Makati Shangri-la had been working on during its hiatus. One example is the first-of-its-kind Horizon Club Business Room. It’s designed to provide business travelers with an enhanced in-room workshop that provides the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and functionality. Standout features include the Omnidesk, an adjustable standing table paired with an ergonomic chair, and fuss-free modern electronics featuring dual-screen 4K monitors, speakerphones, mobile stands, and fast- charging cable adaptors. It’s enough to make remote work feel like a breeze.
Another thing Makati Shangri-la has been working on is its recharged commitment to sustainability and community impact. Included in its plans for sustainability is a shift to using wooden key cards, reducing the use of single-use plastics, forgoing single-use toiletries, and starting a garden-to-table approach with produce. Plans of a garden at Makati Shangri-la’s patio aim to cultivate herbs and vegetables for use in certain food and beverage offerings. A partnership has also been penned with the University of Makati to provide internships and potential full-time employment opportunities for students enrolled in the university’s Hospitality Management program.
demands added personalized attention and services
“Makati Shangri-La, Manila is an iconic landmark that has long been woven into the rich history of Makati City. For the past three decades, the hotel has provided a tranquil sanctuary within the city’s bustling business district,” said Udo. “The reopening symbolizes a fresh beginning for Makati Shangri-La, Manila. It presents us a unique opportunity to provide guests with refreshed experiences and colorful joys of life that span our accommodations, dining destinations, and even in the ways we work with our community.”
Luxury is only one reservation away! Call (+632) 8813 8888 or email reservations.makati@shangri-la.com. Email dining.makati@shangri-la.com for dining reservations.