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Friends, Family and Fulfillment in the Philippines
December 27, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Nicci Hawkins asked:
What makes us interested in international travel? For some it might be the lure of an exotic country, a recommendation from a friend or the need to flee the rain in the summer (as is often the case in the UK). For me, it was disillusionment with my degree and the need to get out of London, so I looked to travel and in particular to volunteering as a form of escapism. I had the idea that I could go somewhere and impart some of my knowledge, some of my time, and hopefully give back to someone along the way. I had the vision that I could the world, albeit in a very small way.
Altruistic? In part, but I also wanted to get out of my situation and this seemed like a way of feeling better about it, as well as making 11-month orphans in the Philippines smile. This trip was my first solo experience, and to say that I was nervous is an understatement! Arriving into Tacloban Airport though, opened my eyes to another world. The air was light and fresh and there were luscious green palm trees and banana plantations everywhere. I was stunned at the beauty but also confronted by the fact that the reality of life here was not as I knew it. The Filipino standard of living in this area is incredibly low and I finally realized that I was about to experience an extremely different way of life.
Throughout my time in the Philippines, I was pointed at, stared and laughed at (especially when I attempted to go for a run round the block, but I have since learned that Filipinos rarely walk long distances, let alone run). But the longer I was there, the more I enjoyed my freedom. The pointing, staring and laughing happened because the people weren’t use to me, and in the beginning I wasn’t used to them either and although this was really hard at one point, it soon became easier to handle. Over time, I learned to love the smells, the sounds, and the hustle and bustle of a city that wasn’t London. I loved commuting on pedicabs and jeepneys (Google them-they are like old school American school buses, painted and decorated to the nines!) and started to get a real flavor for the country and more importantly, the people.
Never in my life have I received such hospitality, and such unusual reactions! As a Westerner, my co-workers at the orphanage saw me as a gateway to the south for their sons or daughters, and many thought that I may be able to find them a husband or wife back home! At the orphanage I was poked, squeezed and pinched and I soon realized that this was their expression of acceptance and interest. I learned that ‘joking only’ was part of the Filipino alphabet (nothing is to be taken seriously, that’s for sure) and that to be English automatically equated me with ‘cups of tea’ and Hermione Granger from Harry Potter (though I look absolutely nothing like her), and that at 1m 75 (about 5’9), I am actually head and shoulders above the rest of the population!
My days were spent working in the orphanage and providing caregivers with help and support. Outside of the orphanage, my life was filled with exploring the surrounding islands with fellow volunteers but it was also enriched by the love and support of my home stay family. I was truly welcomed in as one of them, and was introduced to their extended and extended-extended family throughout my five weeks in the country.
I remember at the end of my time there when I was complaining about going back home to London, the older brother of the family said to me, “You have to go back, Nicci. Your life isn’t here. This isn’t your reality.” As hard as it was to hear, he was right. I had the most incredible time traveling and volunteering, making new international friends and bonding with the most beautiful and giving family but my life was still back in London and I still hadn’t figured out who the ‘real’ me was.
Four years later, and I’m now working for the same volunteering abroad organization that I volunteered with – Kaya Responsible Travel, and I am heading out to live in the Philippines in November for a year. I won’t lie and say that heading off by oneself, especially as a lone female traveler, is easy, but it was certainly the most rewarding thing I have ever done in my life. I experienced so much on my own, and I saw and learned more than a regular ‘tourist,’ who just scratches a country’s surface.
My advice to fellow travelers seeking a challenge and a change is to just do it. Forget about where you’ve come from, and truly embrace the country that you are visiting. Get to know the local people, learn the language and embrace change. As soon as I returned to London, I started planning my next trip, and I’ve had itchy feet ever since. Now instead of bawling my eyes out when I get to the airport, I get that nervous, excited feeling in my stomach: of adventure and the unknown. We have been given the gift of living in ‘the era of easy travel’ so it would just be rude not to take up the offer!
Caffeinated Content
What makes us interested in international travel? For some it might be the lure of an exotic country, a recommendation from a friend or the need to flee the rain in the summer (as is often the case in the UK). For me, it was disillusionment with my degree and the need to get out of London, so I looked to travel and in particular to volunteering as a form of escapism. I had the idea that I could go somewhere and impart some of my knowledge, some of my time, and hopefully give back to someone along the way. I had the vision that I could the world, albeit in a very small way.
Altruistic? In part, but I also wanted to get out of my situation and this seemed like a way of feeling better about it, as well as making 11-month orphans in the Philippines smile. This trip was my first solo experience, and to say that I was nervous is an understatement! Arriving into Tacloban Airport though, opened my eyes to another world. The air was light and fresh and there were luscious green palm trees and banana plantations everywhere. I was stunned at the beauty but also confronted by the fact that the reality of life here was not as I knew it. The Filipino standard of living in this area is incredibly low and I finally realized that I was about to experience an extremely different way of life.
Throughout my time in the Philippines, I was pointed at, stared and laughed at (especially when I attempted to go for a run round the block, but I have since learned that Filipinos rarely walk long distances, let alone run). But the longer I was there, the more I enjoyed my freedom. The pointing, staring and laughing happened because the people weren’t use to me, and in the beginning I wasn’t used to them either and although this was really hard at one point, it soon became easier to handle. Over time, I learned to love the smells, the sounds, and the hustle and bustle of a city that wasn’t London. I loved commuting on pedicabs and jeepneys (Google them-they are like old school American school buses, painted and decorated to the nines!) and started to get a real flavor for the country and more importantly, the people.
Never in my life have I received such hospitality, and such unusual reactions! As a Westerner, my co-workers at the orphanage saw me as a gateway to the south for their sons or daughters, and many thought that I may be able to find them a husband or wife back home! At the orphanage I was poked, squeezed and pinched and I soon realized that this was their expression of acceptance and interest. I learned that ‘joking only’ was part of the Filipino alphabet (nothing is to be taken seriously, that’s for sure) and that to be English automatically equated me with ‘cups of tea’ and Hermione Granger from Harry Potter (though I look absolutely nothing like her), and that at 1m 75 (about 5’9), I am actually head and shoulders above the rest of the population!
My days were spent working in the orphanage and providing caregivers with help and support. Outside of the orphanage, my life was filled with exploring the surrounding islands with fellow volunteers but it was also enriched by the love and support of my home stay family. I was truly welcomed in as one of them, and was introduced to their extended and extended-extended family throughout my five weeks in the country.
I remember at the end of my time there when I was complaining about going back home to London, the older brother of the family said to me, “You have to go back, Nicci. Your life isn’t here. This isn’t your reality.” As hard as it was to hear, he was right. I had the most incredible time traveling and volunteering, making new international friends and bonding with the most beautiful and giving family but my life was still back in London and I still hadn’t figured out who the ‘real’ me was.
Four years later, and I’m now working for the same volunteering abroad organization that I volunteered with – Kaya Responsible Travel, and I am heading out to live in the Philippines in November for a year. I won’t lie and say that heading off by oneself, especially as a lone female traveler, is easy, but it was certainly the most rewarding thing I have ever done in my life. I experienced so much on my own, and I saw and learned more than a regular ‘tourist,’ who just scratches a country’s surface.
My advice to fellow travelers seeking a challenge and a change is to just do it. Forget about where you’ve come from, and truly embrace the country that you are visiting. Get to know the local people, learn the language and embrace change. As soon as I returned to London, I started planning my next trip, and I’ve had itchy feet ever since. Now instead of bawling my eyes out when I get to the airport, I get that nervous, excited feeling in my stomach: of adventure and the unknown. We have been given the gift of living in ‘the era of easy travel’ so it would just be rude not to take up the offer!
Caffeinated Content
Amanpulo – The Ultimate Secret
October 8, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Rich Quiambao asked:
Among the paradise of islands that is the Philippines, among the choices of escapes around the world, and among all the chains of resorts and hotels all over the globe, there exists a hidden secret. This is a secret so coveted, 99% of the inhabitants of the Philippines doesn’t even know its there: the private resort Amanpulo.
The private island is a so luxurious, decadent and extravagant, it is on a class of tourist destinations of its own.
Owned by the AmanResorts luxury group, Amanpulo bears its parents’ name “aman” meaning peace. The word “pulo” on the other hand is the native Filipino word for “island”. Amanresorts is only composed of 15 or so luxury spots in different places, so Amanpulo is no less lavish and exciting as it other more well-known cousins. Amanpulo just opened in the Pamalican Island of Palawan, in the Eastern archipelago of the Philippines. Getting there and leaving there is by private jet, though one can assure you leaving paradise would be pretty hard. Well, at least the jet ride is seamless and comfortable.
Whats more, since this is a private island, getting in is no easy feat. One must know the appropriate channels and get in the right time to obtain a reservation. For a summer vacation in a year or two. One may not know this, but one of the sole entries in the book Places to See Before You Die for the Philippines is Amanpulo, so it is definitely worth the wait.
In Amanpulo, it is said that wide, powdery-white beaches are the wonder, compounded by the seascape proved majestic by the view of nearby Manamoc Island. Sometimes, when visitors stare out at Manamoc form the footprinted shorelines, do they ever wonder whats its like to be on that island paradise, then find themselves on the exact same fantasy in reality? The Aman gives no less.
The Beach Club of course, is said to be Amanpulo’s pride and joy. The relaxing wide are is spread with soft decks and pillows, with walkways leading to the pristine pools or the magnificent beach. The beach is the best choice by morning, while subtly lit pools are the choice place to unwind in romantic nights.
In addition, the place simply called The Restaurant serves both Filipino and international cuisines. And from the sound of the reviews, The Restaurant is on a league of its own, a throwback to when hotel restaurants were the best places to dine in. Serving fresh greens form its own vegetable and herb garden, The Restaurant will settle everyone’s worries over what’s good to eat because well, everything is good to eat.
Beach side casitas, nipa hut inspired but very luxurious lodges, are spaced very wide apart. This gives the impression of having your own beach paradise because you can choose to rarely see other guests. The views are fantastic, and a camera is a must. Maybe an underwater camera is a must too, since only 300m form the shore, a reef so full of color and life awaits anyone.
Coming clean, this is not an advertising ad for Amanpulo or the Aman chain of resorts. This is just a simple yearning to go there, one of the best places on earth unabashedly called paradise by those who have seen it. To taste the secret.
Local Philippines is your one-stop source of information about the Philippines with its fascinating travel destinations, colorful festivals and premier attractions.
Caffeinated Content
Among the paradise of islands that is the Philippines, among the choices of escapes around the world, and among all the chains of resorts and hotels all over the globe, there exists a hidden secret. This is a secret so coveted, 99% of the inhabitants of the Philippines doesn’t even know its there: the private resort Amanpulo.
The private island is a so luxurious, decadent and extravagant, it is on a class of tourist destinations of its own.
Owned by the AmanResorts luxury group, Amanpulo bears its parents’ name “aman” meaning peace. The word “pulo” on the other hand is the native Filipino word for “island”. Amanresorts is only composed of 15 or so luxury spots in different places, so Amanpulo is no less lavish and exciting as it other more well-known cousins. Amanpulo just opened in the Pamalican Island of Palawan, in the Eastern archipelago of the Philippines. Getting there and leaving there is by private jet, though one can assure you leaving paradise would be pretty hard. Well, at least the jet ride is seamless and comfortable.
Whats more, since this is a private island, getting in is no easy feat. One must know the appropriate channels and get in the right time to obtain a reservation. For a summer vacation in a year or two. One may not know this, but one of the sole entries in the book Places to See Before You Die for the Philippines is Amanpulo, so it is definitely worth the wait.
In Amanpulo, it is said that wide, powdery-white beaches are the wonder, compounded by the seascape proved majestic by the view of nearby Manamoc Island. Sometimes, when visitors stare out at Manamoc form the footprinted shorelines, do they ever wonder whats its like to be on that island paradise, then find themselves on the exact same fantasy in reality? The Aman gives no less.
The Beach Club of course, is said to be Amanpulo’s pride and joy. The relaxing wide are is spread with soft decks and pillows, with walkways leading to the pristine pools or the magnificent beach. The beach is the best choice by morning, while subtly lit pools are the choice place to unwind in romantic nights.
In addition, the place simply called The Restaurant serves both Filipino and international cuisines. And from the sound of the reviews, The Restaurant is on a league of its own, a throwback to when hotel restaurants were the best places to dine in. Serving fresh greens form its own vegetable and herb garden, The Restaurant will settle everyone’s worries over what’s good to eat because well, everything is good to eat.
Beach side casitas, nipa hut inspired but very luxurious lodges, are spaced very wide apart. This gives the impression of having your own beach paradise because you can choose to rarely see other guests. The views are fantastic, and a camera is a must. Maybe an underwater camera is a must too, since only 300m form the shore, a reef so full of color and life awaits anyone.
Coming clean, this is not an advertising ad for Amanpulo or the Aman chain of resorts. This is just a simple yearning to go there, one of the best places on earth unabashedly called paradise by those who have seen it. To taste the secret.
Local Philippines is your one-stop source of information about the Philippines with its fascinating travel destinations, colorful festivals and premier attractions.
Caffeinated Content
Planning a Trip to Philippines
August 19, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Jenny Cos asked:
Are you planning to visit the Philippines? Do you want to have some ideas how your first travel will probably be?
If yes, you might want to consider some useful information I jotted down here, especially if it will be your first trip to the Philippines.
Basically, you will arrive in Manila Airport, also known as Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and go through a passport control. Make sure you have 750 pesos for terminal fee and fill out the departure form. Your bags will be inspected and you will be scanned so better take off your shoes, belt, mobile phones, or things that you have in your pockets. After the custom control, you will proceed to the departure terminal. Trained dogs will also be around to check if you have drugs in your luggage. The departure is quite easy and the terminal is not so big, so there is no chance of getting lost.
Make sure to have some cash if you want to ride in a taxi. It usually costs 400-500 Philippine pesos, but it really depends where your destination or hotel is. There are money changers inside the terminal, so it will not be a problem if you don’t have Philippine money.
Some hotels offer transportation services (from hotel to Manila Airport and vice versa) and it’s better to book for that if it will be your first visit to the country. Or else, be prepared to get ripped off by taxi drivers in airport (not only in Manila but anywhere in the world). But you can still insist to use meter in taxi.
If someone will pick you up in your arrival, you need to look through a lot of people waving behind a barrier or better read what is written on their sign boards that matched your name. If you will not ride in the taxi, you will need to walk to the parking area with your luggage, which is approximately 400 meters away.
The weather is also unpredictable, depending what season you plan to go there. If it is not raining, you will surely think that the temperature is really hot. Expect long traffic delays within Metro Manila especially during rush hours.
Foreigners or international tourists usually stay around Malate, Ortigas and Makati area. There are lots of hotels to choose from, but ofcourse, it is up to your budget. Foreigners can also buy a pre-paid sim so it will not be expensive of calling abroad.
During the days, you can go to malls, shopping centers, parks and museums and if you prefer vibrant night life, you can go to some bars, restaurants, disco places, pubs or night clubs. You can find them everywhere, but be careful for pickpockets.
For sure, you don’t want to consume all your days in Manila. You may also want to visit some top tourist destinations like Boracay, Puerto Galera, Cebu, Subic Bay, Palawan, Bohol, Baguio, Banaue, Corregidor, Pangasinan, Batangas, Iloilo and Davao. Be captivated by the beauty of nature, white beaches, small islands and be thrilled by amazing underwater adventures.
You can directly arrange a trip to those places in some travel agencies or just book your trip online. It is not hard to communicate with Filipinos as most of them understand and speak English.
Filipinos are friendly and hospitable. Filipinos also love and treasure small presents (pasalubong). So if you want to have more friends, the fastest way is to give some small things from your home country.
Caffeinated Content – Members-Only Content for WordPress
Are you planning to visit the Philippines? Do you want to have some ideas how your first travel will probably be?
If yes, you might want to consider some useful information I jotted down here, especially if it will be your first trip to the Philippines.
Basically, you will arrive in Manila Airport, also known as Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and go through a passport control. Make sure you have 750 pesos for terminal fee and fill out the departure form. Your bags will be inspected and you will be scanned so better take off your shoes, belt, mobile phones, or things that you have in your pockets. After the custom control, you will proceed to the departure terminal. Trained dogs will also be around to check if you have drugs in your luggage. The departure is quite easy and the terminal is not so big, so there is no chance of getting lost.
Make sure to have some cash if you want to ride in a taxi. It usually costs 400-500 Philippine pesos, but it really depends where your destination or hotel is. There are money changers inside the terminal, so it will not be a problem if you don’t have Philippine money.
Some hotels offer transportation services (from hotel to Manila Airport and vice versa) and it’s better to book for that if it will be your first visit to the country. Or else, be prepared to get ripped off by taxi drivers in airport (not only in Manila but anywhere in the world). But you can still insist to use meter in taxi.
If someone will pick you up in your arrival, you need to look through a lot of people waving behind a barrier or better read what is written on their sign boards that matched your name. If you will not ride in the taxi, you will need to walk to the parking area with your luggage, which is approximately 400 meters away.
The weather is also unpredictable, depending what season you plan to go there. If it is not raining, you will surely think that the temperature is really hot. Expect long traffic delays within Metro Manila especially during rush hours.
Foreigners or international tourists usually stay around Malate, Ortigas and Makati area. There are lots of hotels to choose from, but ofcourse, it is up to your budget. Foreigners can also buy a pre-paid sim so it will not be expensive of calling abroad.
During the days, you can go to malls, shopping centers, parks and museums and if you prefer vibrant night life, you can go to some bars, restaurants, disco places, pubs or night clubs. You can find them everywhere, but be careful for pickpockets.
For sure, you don’t want to consume all your days in Manila. You may also want to visit some top tourist destinations like Boracay, Puerto Galera, Cebu, Subic Bay, Palawan, Bohol, Baguio, Banaue, Corregidor, Pangasinan, Batangas, Iloilo and Davao. Be captivated by the beauty of nature, white beaches, small islands and be thrilled by amazing underwater adventures.
You can directly arrange a trip to those places in some travel agencies or just book your trip online. It is not hard to communicate with Filipinos as most of them understand and speak English.
Filipinos are friendly and hospitable. Filipinos also love and treasure small presents (pasalubong). So if you want to have more friends, the fastest way is to give some small things from your home country.
Caffeinated Content – Members-Only Content for WordPress
Historical Landmarks at Manila, Philippines
June 19, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Jose Abada asked:
Manila, Philippines can always get the credit for its alluring beauty and charm that makes it the capital city of the Philippines. It has the largest population in the country and numerous scenic spots are located in the city making it highly deserving to be commended as the country’s commercial and tourist hub.
Manila has a total land area of 38.55 square kilometers and has approximately 1.6 million dwellers. The capital city of the country is one of the 17 municipalities and cities that form Metro Manila. The city is actually divided into sixteen districts, eight of them are situated north of the Pasig River while the other half are located in the south. These are Binondo, which has 10 barangays, Ermita with 13, Intramuros with 5, Malate having 57, Paco with 43, Pandacan with 38, Port Area with 5, and Quiapo with 16. Sampaloc has the most number of barangays next to Tondo. It has 192 barangays. 65 barangays belong to San Andres district, San Miguel has 12, San Nicolas has 15, Santa Ana, Santa Cruz, Santa Mesa and Tondo has 34, 82, 51 and 259 barangays respectively.
The Landmarks that Speaks for Its Beauty
These landmarks speak for the beauty of the city and Metro Manila in general. It housed the Apolinario Mabini Shrine, Chinatown in Binondo District, De La Salle University, the Embassy of the United States of America, Far Eastern University and Fort Santiago. For people who love to go out and enjoy at night, Ermita and Malate are just the right place for you. The city also has Intramuros, the official residence of the President of the Philippines – Malacanang Palace, Baywalk, the historical Malate Church, the Manila Cathedral, and the Manila City Hall, which is a very prominent infrastructure found in the place.
These days, guests will certainly enjoy a visit at the Manila Ocean Park, Manila Yacht Club, Metropolitan Theater and kids would enjoy a trip to the Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden, formerly known as the Manila Zoo, and the Museo Pambata. Guests can brace themselves with information as they pay a visit to the National Library of the Philippines and the National Museum of the Philippines.
For some entertaining moment, guests can visit Paco Park where a TV show, the Paco Park Presents is held. Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz, Plaza Miranda, Quirino Grandstand, Plaza Rajah Sulayman, Rizal Park or commonly called Luneta and Manila Hotel hold history of their own.
Some religious infrastructures also have a story of their own. San Agustin Church being the most ancient church would simply reveal a story in the past. The same goes with San Sebastian Church.
Manila Landmarks Tell Its Story
The country has been through a lot. Not all landmarks talk about happy memories. They also reflect the ordeal the country has gone through in the past. In a way, some of the landmarks also remind the people of its history that bring out ardent inspiration and hope.
Manila is a home to many historical landmarks that reflect the past and experiences of many Filipinos from different regimes that colonized the country. The Supreme Court of the Philippines, near the City Hall is the Victims of Martial Law Memorial Wall-Bonifacio Shrine and the oldest university founded in the Philippines – University of Santo Tomas.
In Manila Chinese Cemetery, La Loma Cemetery, Manila North and South Cemeteries and Paco Park, buried are the bodies of so many Filipinos who had their part and contribution in the history of the place. Museums and other sporting venues are all over the place. Amidst these landmarks in Manila, you can always see the beauty and inspiring stories of the past.
Create a video blog
Manila, Philippines can always get the credit for its alluring beauty and charm that makes it the capital city of the Philippines. It has the largest population in the country and numerous scenic spots are located in the city making it highly deserving to be commended as the country’s commercial and tourist hub.
Manila has a total land area of 38.55 square kilometers and has approximately 1.6 million dwellers. The capital city of the country is one of the 17 municipalities and cities that form Metro Manila. The city is actually divided into sixteen districts, eight of them are situated north of the Pasig River while the other half are located in the south. These are Binondo, which has 10 barangays, Ermita with 13, Intramuros with 5, Malate having 57, Paco with 43, Pandacan with 38, Port Area with 5, and Quiapo with 16. Sampaloc has the most number of barangays next to Tondo. It has 192 barangays. 65 barangays belong to San Andres district, San Miguel has 12, San Nicolas has 15, Santa Ana, Santa Cruz, Santa Mesa and Tondo has 34, 82, 51 and 259 barangays respectively.
The Landmarks that Speaks for Its Beauty
These landmarks speak for the beauty of the city and Metro Manila in general. It housed the Apolinario Mabini Shrine, Chinatown in Binondo District, De La Salle University, the Embassy of the United States of America, Far Eastern University and Fort Santiago. For people who love to go out and enjoy at night, Ermita and Malate are just the right place for you. The city also has Intramuros, the official residence of the President of the Philippines – Malacanang Palace, Baywalk, the historical Malate Church, the Manila Cathedral, and the Manila City Hall, which is a very prominent infrastructure found in the place.
These days, guests will certainly enjoy a visit at the Manila Ocean Park, Manila Yacht Club, Metropolitan Theater and kids would enjoy a trip to the Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden, formerly known as the Manila Zoo, and the Museo Pambata. Guests can brace themselves with information as they pay a visit to the National Library of the Philippines and the National Museum of the Philippines.
For some entertaining moment, guests can visit Paco Park where a TV show, the Paco Park Presents is held. Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz, Plaza Miranda, Quirino Grandstand, Plaza Rajah Sulayman, Rizal Park or commonly called Luneta and Manila Hotel hold history of their own.
Some religious infrastructures also have a story of their own. San Agustin Church being the most ancient church would simply reveal a story in the past. The same goes with San Sebastian Church.
Manila Landmarks Tell Its Story
The country has been through a lot. Not all landmarks talk about happy memories. They also reflect the ordeal the country has gone through in the past. In a way, some of the landmarks also remind the people of its history that bring out ardent inspiration and hope.
Manila is a home to many historical landmarks that reflect the past and experiences of many Filipinos from different regimes that colonized the country. The Supreme Court of the Philippines, near the City Hall is the Victims of Martial Law Memorial Wall-Bonifacio Shrine and the oldest university founded in the Philippines – University of Santo Tomas.
In Manila Chinese Cemetery, La Loma Cemetery, Manila North and South Cemeteries and Paco Park, buried are the bodies of so many Filipinos who had their part and contribution in the history of the place. Museums and other sporting venues are all over the place. Amidst these landmarks in Manila, you can always see the beauty and inspiring stories of the past.
Create a video blog
Web Dot Com is the Web Site Developer of Amnesty International Philippines
Business Local Listings asked:
Web Dot Com Website Development Philippines, Inc. is the official web site developer of Amnesty International Philippines.
Amnesty International is a global movement of people campaigning actively for the protection of human rights and taking action against human rights abuses. Such action comes in the form of information campaigns through communication and media channels, as well as public pressure through mass demonstrations, vigils and lobbying.
Amnesty International Philippines was officially recognized as an Amnesty International section on January 27, 1987. Among its many accomplishments is its role in the repeal of the Death Penalty Law in the Philippines in 2005 and its participation in the successful campaign to get UN approval for a moratorium on executions in 2007, with the Philippines as co-author and signatory of the resolution.
The Amnesty International Philippines web site developed by Web Dot Com is packed with information that is systematically categorized and labeled. Despite the huge amount of data on the entire site, the visitor is not overwhelmed. Perhaps this is because the landing pages are bright and feature a clean layout which clearly displays the various sections. Navigation is definitely not a problem since links are properly labeled.
Given a prominent position is the link to the Amnesty International Report of 2009. There are Spotlights on Human Rights and Poverty, Violence against Women, Counter Terror with Justice, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). There is a section on News and Updates alongside a section on Appeals for Action. There is a special link to Good News and another one to CampAIgn, the Amnesty International newsletter.
There are buttons labeled Donate to Amnesty International, Join Amnesty International, and More ways to get involved.
There are also several search buttons. One is to select a country where Amnesty International is active and another is to select a country with human rights abuses.
There are buttons leading to the sections on Amnesty International in the Philippines, Act Now, Join Us, Activities and Publications.
The Amnesty International Philippines section is comprised of subsections titled Who We Are, explaining Amnesty International; AI Philippines; Networks, Statute of AI, AIPh ByLaws, UDHR and FAQ.
The Act Now section is comprised of subsections titled Direct Appeals, Urgent Actions and Donate.
The Join Us sections has subsections titled Members, Local Groups, Form a Group and Volunteers.
The Activities section has a list of AI Philippines activities since 1998, categorized by year.
The Publications section contains downloadable materials as well as subsections for the Newsletter, Reports, Library and Archives.
Indeed, the Amnesty International Philippines is a fitting showcase of the web development and design skills of Web Dot Com.
Web Dot Com Website Development Philippines, Inc. has been successfully serving an international clientele from the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, Korea, the British Virgin Islands and the Philippines for the last ten years. From Manila, Web Dot Com offers various business process outsourcing (BPO) services, including outsourcing web development and contact center services.
In the area of web development, the web hosting provider also offers domain name registration and low cost advanced web site development packages. Depending on the client’s needs, this may include advanced interactive database driven web site development, advanced portal development, heavy web based programming, web application development, content management systems, good website design, graphic design and multimedia components including flash animation development, e-commerce site solutions including a shopping cart using osCommerce, web site maintenance and support, search engine optimization, search engine marketing and social media marketing. Its programmers and developers are highly skilled at php, mysql, JavaScript and other internet languages and tools.
Web Dot Com Website Development Philippines, Inc. is your One Stop Shop Internet and Contact Center Solutions Vendor for the Global Market. Make it your own web site developer, as well.
Web Dot Com Website Development Philippines, Inc.
Address:
2nd Floor, BT&T Center
#20 E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave., Libis (C-5),
Quezon City, 1110 Philippines
E-mail: info@webdc.com.ph
Telephone numbers: (632) 634-4625; (632) 635-6104
Web Dot Com Website Development Philippines, Inc. is the official web site developer of Amnesty International Philippines.
Amnesty International is a global movement of people campaigning actively for the protection of human rights and taking action against human rights abuses. Such action comes in the form of information campaigns through communication and media channels, as well as public pressure through mass demonstrations, vigils and lobbying.
Amnesty International Philippines was officially recognized as an Amnesty International section on January 27, 1987. Among its many accomplishments is its role in the repeal of the Death Penalty Law in the Philippines in 2005 and its participation in the successful campaign to get UN approval for a moratorium on executions in 2007, with the Philippines as co-author and signatory of the resolution.
The Amnesty International Philippines web site developed by Web Dot Com is packed with information that is systematically categorized and labeled. Despite the huge amount of data on the entire site, the visitor is not overwhelmed. Perhaps this is because the landing pages are bright and feature a clean layout which clearly displays the various sections. Navigation is definitely not a problem since links are properly labeled.
Given a prominent position is the link to the Amnesty International Report of 2009. There are Spotlights on Human Rights and Poverty, Violence against Women, Counter Terror with Justice, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). There is a section on News and Updates alongside a section on Appeals for Action. There is a special link to Good News and another one to CampAIgn, the Amnesty International newsletter.
There are buttons labeled Donate to Amnesty International, Join Amnesty International, and More ways to get involved.
There are also several search buttons. One is to select a country where Amnesty International is active and another is to select a country with human rights abuses.
There are buttons leading to the sections on Amnesty International in the Philippines, Act Now, Join Us, Activities and Publications.
The Amnesty International Philippines section is comprised of subsections titled Who We Are, explaining Amnesty International; AI Philippines; Networks, Statute of AI, AIPh ByLaws, UDHR and FAQ.
The Act Now section is comprised of subsections titled Direct Appeals, Urgent Actions and Donate.
The Join Us sections has subsections titled Members, Local Groups, Form a Group and Volunteers.
The Activities section has a list of AI Philippines activities since 1998, categorized by year.
The Publications section contains downloadable materials as well as subsections for the Newsletter, Reports, Library and Archives.
Indeed, the Amnesty International Philippines is a fitting showcase of the web development and design skills of Web Dot Com.
Web Dot Com Website Development Philippines, Inc. has been successfully serving an international clientele from the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, Korea, the British Virgin Islands and the Philippines for the last ten years. From Manila, Web Dot Com offers various business process outsourcing (BPO) services, including outsourcing web development and contact center services.
In the area of web development, the web hosting provider also offers domain name registration and low cost advanced web site development packages. Depending on the client’s needs, this may include advanced interactive database driven web site development, advanced portal development, heavy web based programming, web application development, content management systems, good website design, graphic design and multimedia components including flash animation development, e-commerce site solutions including a shopping cart using osCommerce, web site maintenance and support, search engine optimization, search engine marketing and social media marketing. Its programmers and developers are highly skilled at php, mysql, JavaScript and other internet languages and tools.
Web Dot Com Website Development Philippines, Inc. is your One Stop Shop Internet and Contact Center Solutions Vendor for the Global Market. Make it your own web site developer, as well.
Web Dot Com Website Development Philippines, Inc.
Address:
2nd Floor, BT&T Center
#20 E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave., Libis (C-5),
Quezon City, 1110 Philippines
E-mail: info@webdc.com.ph
Telephone numbers: (632) 634-4625; (632) 635-6104
Manila, Philippines
Danny Wirken asked:
The Philippines has recently gained itself a bad reputation due to all the political on-goings in the country. Clashes between rebel forces and the government, rumors of coup, status of emergency declarations, and even suspected links to the al Quaeda – no wonder some Western governments cannot help but release travel advisories against visiting this country.
Before you decide against a trip to Manila, you should bear in mind that the newspapers do not always give an accurate picture of a situation. Sensationalism is their business, and sensationalized news is what you usually get.
Manila is located in the northern island of Luzon. The terrorist stronghold is located in the southernmost part of the Philippines – two big islands away – in Mindanao. The status of emergency was indeed declared but civilians basically continued to live their normal lives even as it was in place.
It is very easy to get around in Manila. The jeepney is the Philippines’ most common form of transportation. It is actually based on the US Army jeep but is longer and fits about 16-20 people. You can also get on buses, the Metro Rail Transit, and hire cabs. Language is not a major problem as even the people on the streets can speak rudimentary English.
Manila is well-known for its nightlife. You can find bars open until 3 or 4 in the morning. The Makati and Malate areas are where you can find the hottest clubs and bars. Makati is a bit more expensive but safer as well.
Malls abound in the metro. You can find anything from designer brands to nondescript but very cheap brands. Food is not a problem. Filipino food, American fast food, Japanese food – you can find anything there.
Filipinos are very hospitable by nature. You will be surprised at how friendly and helpful most of them are. It’s actually a different form of racism – they seem to treat Caucasians in a much better way.
Cost of living and traveling is so much lower than in western countries. So if you have dollars or euros, chances are you will have no problems availing services that meet your standards. Hotels and other accommodations are abundant and easy to find.
If it is the beach you want, then you can opt to go out of the city. The nearest beach can be reached in about 4 hours from the city. You can take a plane to other parts of the country if you want to see more.
Whether you are traveling alone or with your family, Manila is a good place to visit. It will be a rich cultural experience for you.
The Philippines has recently gained itself a bad reputation due to all the political on-goings in the country. Clashes between rebel forces and the government, rumors of coup, status of emergency declarations, and even suspected links to the al Quaeda – no wonder some Western governments cannot help but release travel advisories against visiting this country.
Before you decide against a trip to Manila, you should bear in mind that the newspapers do not always give an accurate picture of a situation. Sensationalism is their business, and sensationalized news is what you usually get.
Manila is located in the northern island of Luzon. The terrorist stronghold is located in the southernmost part of the Philippines – two big islands away – in Mindanao. The status of emergency was indeed declared but civilians basically continued to live their normal lives even as it was in place.
It is very easy to get around in Manila. The jeepney is the Philippines’ most common form of transportation. It is actually based on the US Army jeep but is longer and fits about 16-20 people. You can also get on buses, the Metro Rail Transit, and hire cabs. Language is not a major problem as even the people on the streets can speak rudimentary English.
Manila is well-known for its nightlife. You can find bars open until 3 or 4 in the morning. The Makati and Malate areas are where you can find the hottest clubs and bars. Makati is a bit more expensive but safer as well.
Malls abound in the metro. You can find anything from designer brands to nondescript but very cheap brands. Food is not a problem. Filipino food, American fast food, Japanese food – you can find anything there.
Filipinos are very hospitable by nature. You will be surprised at how friendly and helpful most of them are. It’s actually a different form of racism – they seem to treat Caucasians in a much better way.
Cost of living and traveling is so much lower than in western countries. So if you have dollars or euros, chances are you will have no problems availing services that meet your standards. Hotels and other accommodations are abundant and easy to find.
If it is the beach you want, then you can opt to go out of the city. The nearest beach can be reached in about 4 hours from the city. You can take a plane to other parts of the country if you want to see more.
Whether you are traveling alone or with your family, Manila is a good place to visit. It will be a rich cultural experience for you.
