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Philippines Surfing if You Want to Miss the Crowds
September 10, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Brett Jankowiak asked:
Philippines surfing is not quite a destination that would conjure up images of brilliant surfing breaks. Truth be told surfing in the Philippines can be fickle, but if you are after an adventure, are willing to go off the beaten track and are not afraid to try something different, then surfing in the Philippines will not disappoint you.
With 7,107 islands, the roaring Pacific Ocean bordering the eastern coastline and the South China Sea on the western coastline and attracting more typhoons than most neighboring countries, Philippines surfing is alive and well. In fact the Philippines are not a new surfing destination, with surfers enjoying the waves here since at least the sixties, maybe even earlier. Let’s face it who wouldn’t want a perfect left or right hander all to yourself!
Philippines surfing can be both temperamental and seasonal, it is important to know when the best time to come is or you may be disappointed, nothing worse that a surfer without surf.
amihan, during November to April. On top of the monsoons throw in a typhoon or many and you can imagine that surfing in the Philippines can really pump. The typhoons usually come in from the east of Mindanao and head in a north westerly direction hitting the southern Luzon and the islands between Luzon and the Pacific.
The west coast of the Philippines is more inconsistent than the east coast, it relies on the winds through the Taiwan Straights during the north east monsoon. This wind created swell hits the west coast of Luzon. The swell can also be really good when the odd typhoon heads towards Hong Kong. The swell that hits Palawan can be hard to pick, but you are guaranteed to have fantastic waves if you leave your surf board at home, typically if you bring it the surf will be flat!
So when is the best time to go surfing in the Philippines? Well your best to try the east coast during the north east monsoon. But like everywhere surfing the Philippines is inconsistent, however on it’s good day, totally unforgettable.
Where To Go Surfing
travel philippines
Philippines surfing is not quite a destination that would conjure up images of brilliant surfing breaks. Truth be told surfing in the Philippines can be fickle, but if you are after an adventure, are willing to go off the beaten track and are not afraid to try something different, then surfing in the Philippines will not disappoint you.
With 7,107 islands, the roaring Pacific Ocean bordering the eastern coastline and the South China Sea on the western coastline and attracting more typhoons than most neighboring countries, Philippines surfing is alive and well. In fact the Philippines are not a new surfing destination, with surfers enjoying the waves here since at least the sixties, maybe even earlier. Let’s face it who wouldn’t want a perfect left or right hander all to yourself!
Philippines surfing can be both temperamental and seasonal, it is important to know when the best time to come is or you may be disappointed, nothing worse that a surfer without surf.
amihan, during November to April. On top of the monsoons throw in a typhoon or many and you can imagine that surfing in the Philippines can really pump. The typhoons usually come in from the east of Mindanao and head in a north westerly direction hitting the southern Luzon and the islands between Luzon and the Pacific.
The west coast of the Philippines is more inconsistent than the east coast, it relies on the winds through the Taiwan Straights during the north east monsoon. This wind created swell hits the west coast of Luzon. The swell can also be really good when the odd typhoon heads towards Hong Kong. The swell that hits Palawan can be hard to pick, but you are guaranteed to have fantastic waves if you leave your surf board at home, typically if you bring it the surf will be flat!
So when is the best time to go surfing in the Philippines? Well your best to try the east coast during the north east monsoon. But like everywhere surfing the Philippines is inconsistent, however on it’s good day, totally unforgettable.
Where To Go Surfing
travel philippines
Travel Asia – The Beaches of the Philippines
July 16, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Matthew Davidson asked:
The Philippines is composed of 7,107 islands. Wherever you may be, you are certain that there is a beach within an hour’s drive to give you a nice tan line. However, if you want to see the most pristine and most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, you need to uncover these gems for yourself. We are listing some of the beaches which we have uncovered that truly captured our hearts because of their divine beauty.
Boracay is probably the most famous beach in the Philippines. It boasts of kilometers of sand so fine it passes through your hands in seconds. It is also known for the nightlife and celebrity visits it gets yearly, both from local ones and international stars such as Brangelina.
Puerto Princesa in Palawan is heaven on Earth. It is home to the famous Subterranean Underground Park which was nominated as one of the new seven wonders of the world. Besides its white sand beaches, underwater life is dazzling in Puerto Princesa. The Tubbataha Reef was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it is one of the best diving spots in Asia.
If you want to see nature at its finest, such as hills by the hundreds and relaxing rivers, but still want to be near the beach, then Panglao Island in Bohol is the place to be. One will be greeted by the amazing attractions such as the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier, the smallest primate in the world while being just a couple of minutes away from white sand beaches.
If you plan on going on vacation but are just so tired of the usual places you go to, why not try out one of the Philippines’ thousands of beaches. Before you know it, you will fall so in love with it you won’t want to leave.
Kansieo.com
The Philippines is composed of 7,107 islands. Wherever you may be, you are certain that there is a beach within an hour’s drive to give you a nice tan line. However, if you want to see the most pristine and most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, you need to uncover these gems for yourself. We are listing some of the beaches which we have uncovered that truly captured our hearts because of their divine beauty.
Boracay is probably the most famous beach in the Philippines. It boasts of kilometers of sand so fine it passes through your hands in seconds. It is also known for the nightlife and celebrity visits it gets yearly, both from local ones and international stars such as Brangelina.
Puerto Princesa in Palawan is heaven on Earth. It is home to the famous Subterranean Underground Park which was nominated as one of the new seven wonders of the world. Besides its white sand beaches, underwater life is dazzling in Puerto Princesa. The Tubbataha Reef was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it is one of the best diving spots in Asia.
If you want to see nature at its finest, such as hills by the hundreds and relaxing rivers, but still want to be near the beach, then Panglao Island in Bohol is the place to be. One will be greeted by the amazing attractions such as the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier, the smallest primate in the world while being just a couple of minutes away from white sand beaches.
If you plan on going on vacation but are just so tired of the usual places you go to, why not try out one of the Philippines’ thousands of beaches. Before you know it, you will fall so in love with it you won’t want to leave.
Kansieo.com
Sightseeing Sites in the Philippines
July 15, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Allan Merin asked:
With its wide selection of tourist attractions, the Philippines is an ideal site for sightseeing tours. Home to colorful festivals and exquisite natural wonders, this Southeast Asian nation has a lot of visual treats to offer for travelers.
There are notable tourist spots to visit throughout the country’s more than 7,000 islands. This is a testament that the Philippines ranks among the top nations offering an impressive selection of sightseeing attractions. Though internationally famous for its white sand beaches, this predominantly Catholic republic also boasts of delicate colonial architectures and breathtaking natural sceneries in almost every town.
Here is a guide to some of the best sightseeing destinations in the Philippines.
Manila
Manila is not only the country’s capital but also the center of cultural heritage. Explore the Philippines’ rich Spanish legacy with a trip to Intramuros (Walled City), which was built by the Spaniards in the 16th century. Inside the compound, you can find old places of worship such as the San Agustin Church and the Manila Cathedral. Other points of interest in Intramuros are Fort Santiago and Casa Manila. Also, never leave Manila without visiting the Luneta Park, where a statue of national hero Jose Rizal is erected.
Corregidor
Take a trip down memory lanes by visiting Corregidor, an island that served as an important defense fortress for American and Filipino soldiers during World War II. Some of the attractions in this historical place include the Pacific War Memorial, the Battery Way, the Mile-Long Barracks, and the Malinta Tunnel. It takes a shade over an hour to reach Corregidor from Manila, where day and night tour packages are available.
Baguio
Its unique attractions have made Baguio a renowned sightseeing destination in northern Philippines. Dubbed as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, the city is home to a dozens of scenic spots such as The Mansion, Burnham Park, Session Road, Camp John Hay, and the Baguio Botanical Garden. While plying the dizzying Kennon Road, have your camera ready for some spectacular countryside views.
Legazpi
Legazpi, the provincial capital of Albay, is one of Bicol region’s top tourist destinations. This first-class city is home to the world’s famous Mayon Volcano, which is known for its perfect conical shape. The year 1814 is said to be the volcano’s worst eruption. A remainder of this grim past can be found at the Cagsawa Ruins Park.
Banaue
Another premier tourist destination in the northern region is Banaue. This town of more than 20,000 people is the site of the Banaue Rice Terraces, a 2,000-year-old man-made leveled surfaces carved into the mountains of Ifugao. Don’t be surprised if gaze in wonder once seeing this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bohol
Aside from its pristine beaches, Bohol is widely known for the Chocolate Hills. These unusual geological formations are scattered in the towns of Carmen, Batuan, and Sagbayan. The dome-shaped hills are actually limestone covered with green grass. Bohol, which is located in the Central Visayas region, is also famous for a tarsier sanctuary and the Sandugo Festival.
Local Philippines is your travel buddy. We have information about the destinations, how to get there, what to do while in the area and more! Destinations in the beaches or in the mountains, destinations under water, destinations right at the middle of the urban hub, name it and Local Philippines will most likely feature it.
Caffeinated Content for WordPress
With its wide selection of tourist attractions, the Philippines is an ideal site for sightseeing tours. Home to colorful festivals and exquisite natural wonders, this Southeast Asian nation has a lot of visual treats to offer for travelers.
There are notable tourist spots to visit throughout the country’s more than 7,000 islands. This is a testament that the Philippines ranks among the top nations offering an impressive selection of sightseeing attractions. Though internationally famous for its white sand beaches, this predominantly Catholic republic also boasts of delicate colonial architectures and breathtaking natural sceneries in almost every town.
Here is a guide to some of the best sightseeing destinations in the Philippines.
Manila
Manila is not only the country’s capital but also the center of cultural heritage. Explore the Philippines’ rich Spanish legacy with a trip to Intramuros (Walled City), which was built by the Spaniards in the 16th century. Inside the compound, you can find old places of worship such as the San Agustin Church and the Manila Cathedral. Other points of interest in Intramuros are Fort Santiago and Casa Manila. Also, never leave Manila without visiting the Luneta Park, where a statue of national hero Jose Rizal is erected.
Corregidor
Take a trip down memory lanes by visiting Corregidor, an island that served as an important defense fortress for American and Filipino soldiers during World War II. Some of the attractions in this historical place include the Pacific War Memorial, the Battery Way, the Mile-Long Barracks, and the Malinta Tunnel. It takes a shade over an hour to reach Corregidor from Manila, where day and night tour packages are available.
Baguio
Its unique attractions have made Baguio a renowned sightseeing destination in northern Philippines. Dubbed as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, the city is home to a dozens of scenic spots such as The Mansion, Burnham Park, Session Road, Camp John Hay, and the Baguio Botanical Garden. While plying the dizzying Kennon Road, have your camera ready for some spectacular countryside views.
Legazpi
Legazpi, the provincial capital of Albay, is one of Bicol region’s top tourist destinations. This first-class city is home to the world’s famous Mayon Volcano, which is known for its perfect conical shape. The year 1814 is said to be the volcano’s worst eruption. A remainder of this grim past can be found at the Cagsawa Ruins Park.
Banaue
Another premier tourist destination in the northern region is Banaue. This town of more than 20,000 people is the site of the Banaue Rice Terraces, a 2,000-year-old man-made leveled surfaces carved into the mountains of Ifugao. Don’t be surprised if gaze in wonder once seeing this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bohol
Aside from its pristine beaches, Bohol is widely known for the Chocolate Hills. These unusual geological formations are scattered in the towns of Carmen, Batuan, and Sagbayan. The dome-shaped hills are actually limestone covered with green grass. Bohol, which is located in the Central Visayas region, is also famous for a tarsier sanctuary and the Sandugo Festival.
Local Philippines is your travel buddy. We have information about the destinations, how to get there, what to do while in the area and more! Destinations in the beaches or in the mountains, destinations under water, destinations right at the middle of the urban hub, name it and Local Philippines will most likely feature it.
Caffeinated Content for WordPress
Baguio City – A Cool Philippines Travel Destination in the Tropics
July 14, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Manuel Maniquis asked:
A famous Philippines travel destination up north is Baguio City. Baguio is fondly called as the summer capital of the Philippines because tourists flock to the area during summer. The reason – it is much cooler to spend summer in Baguio than any other place in the Philippines. With its location atop the Cordillera Mountains, at an elevation of 1,500 meters above sea level, it is the closest thing the country has to a mountain resort.
There are so many things you can do in this Philippines travel destination. True enough, you might have to travel 6 hours by land or 45 minutes by plane to Baguio, but for sure, it will all be worth it. Baguio is also called as the City of Pines because of the thousands of pine trees in the area. The presence of these trees adds to the already cool atmosphere of Baguio. One other thing that the city is known for is its strawberry farms. If it is harvesting season, you can ask your travel agent to set up your trip in such a way that you will be able to go to a strawberry farm for some picking.
Places of interest in this Philippines travel destination include the Burnham Park and the Wright Park. You can enjoy boating and horseback riding in these parks respectively. Baguio is also the home of the Philippine Military Academy, the training grounds of the future leaders of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Souvenir shopping is one thing tourists will enjoy in Baguio because several shops operate in the area.
For your accommodations, you can choose from a variety of hotels and pension houses that will fit your budget. You can also stay in Camp John Hay, which used to be the R&R place of the US military troops then. Certainly, there is just too much to do in Baguio.
Caffeinated Content for WordPress
A famous Philippines travel destination up north is Baguio City. Baguio is fondly called as the summer capital of the Philippines because tourists flock to the area during summer. The reason – it is much cooler to spend summer in Baguio than any other place in the Philippines. With its location atop the Cordillera Mountains, at an elevation of 1,500 meters above sea level, it is the closest thing the country has to a mountain resort.
There are so many things you can do in this Philippines travel destination. True enough, you might have to travel 6 hours by land or 45 minutes by plane to Baguio, but for sure, it will all be worth it. Baguio is also called as the City of Pines because of the thousands of pine trees in the area. The presence of these trees adds to the already cool atmosphere of Baguio. One other thing that the city is known for is its strawberry farms. If it is harvesting season, you can ask your travel agent to set up your trip in such a way that you will be able to go to a strawberry farm for some picking.
Places of interest in this Philippines travel destination include the Burnham Park and the Wright Park. You can enjoy boating and horseback riding in these parks respectively. Baguio is also the home of the Philippine Military Academy, the training grounds of the future leaders of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Souvenir shopping is one thing tourists will enjoy in Baguio because several shops operate in the area.
For your accommodations, you can choose from a variety of hotels and pension houses that will fit your budget. You can also stay in Camp John Hay, which used to be the R&R place of the US military troops then. Certainly, there is just too much to do in Baguio.
Caffeinated Content for WordPress
Philippines’ Pamalican Island
May 27, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Cedric Canierro asked:
Whenever we hear Philippines, we think of luscious forests, warm smiles of Filipinos and white sand beaches. Speaking of beaches, Boracay always comes to your mind as a beach-freak. Aside from the infamous Boracay, there are other white sand beaches in the tropics. Pamalican Island, apart from Boracay, is a small island that belongs in Cuyo Group of Islands located at the heart of Palawan and Panay. It is also the home of the high-end Amanpulo Island Resort.
Having the name Amanpulo (which means peaceful) spells it’s true meaning and added to that feature is it’s alluring beauty and tranquility. However, to transport tourists from Manila to the island, there is always an airplane standing by. It is also used to transport goods and supplies to the island. The island can accommodate less than 100 people to stay. That is an assurance that the place is not that crowded compared to Boracay and Puerto Galera. The fact that it’s so small you can tour the whole island in 3-5 hours walk.
If you think walking around the island is boring, think again. The island has so many activities to offer just like diving, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, windsurfing, and beach combing. If you feel the romantic ambiance, try to arrange a barbecue night out with your date or simply grab your picnic basket and do your picnicking on the neighbor island. You can also indulge yourself in the island’s casitas (bungalow) that goes with a personal buggy. So if vacation is what you have in mind, always include Pamalican Island in your list of travel destinations in Asia.
Caffeinated Content
Whenever we hear Philippines, we think of luscious forests, warm smiles of Filipinos and white sand beaches. Speaking of beaches, Boracay always comes to your mind as a beach-freak. Aside from the infamous Boracay, there are other white sand beaches in the tropics. Pamalican Island, apart from Boracay, is a small island that belongs in Cuyo Group of Islands located at the heart of Palawan and Panay. It is also the home of the high-end Amanpulo Island Resort.
Having the name Amanpulo (which means peaceful) spells it’s true meaning and added to that feature is it’s alluring beauty and tranquility. However, to transport tourists from Manila to the island, there is always an airplane standing by. It is also used to transport goods and supplies to the island. The island can accommodate less than 100 people to stay. That is an assurance that the place is not that crowded compared to Boracay and Puerto Galera. The fact that it’s so small you can tour the whole island in 3-5 hours walk.
If you think walking around the island is boring, think again. The island has so many activities to offer just like diving, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, windsurfing, and beach combing. If you feel the romantic ambiance, try to arrange a barbecue night out with your date or simply grab your picnic basket and do your picnicking on the neighbor island. You can also indulge yourself in the island’s casitas (bungalow) that goes with a personal buggy. So if vacation is what you have in mind, always include Pamalican Island in your list of travel destinations in Asia.
Caffeinated Content
Philippines Travel Tips
April 26, 2011 by Anita
Filed under Travel And Leisure
Allan Merin asked:
With its 7,107 islands, the Philippines boasts of some of the world’s best tourist destinations. This Southeast Asian nation remains one of the frontier travel havens in the world even if sometimes overlooked by int’l visitors because of some security reasons. Home to some 92 million people, the Philippines is surely one of the top notch destinations worth traveling to.
Traveling in the Philippines is not (as) tricky as some people may think. Due to its modernized telecommunication systems and public infrastructure, going from one scenic spot to another is as easy as 123. To make the trip more memorable and enjoyable, here are some tips to follow while vacationing in the Philippines.
Be Prepared
Proper planning is a must. Since you can visit the country any time of the year, look for travel agencies and luxury resorts that offer great and affordable vacation packages all-year round. Remember that without careful planning, your trip to the Philippines may end on a sour note.
Check The Weather
Note that the country can be prone to earthquakes and typhoons since it is situated in the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire. So the best times to visit the Philippines would be from Dec to May. The weather on these months is the most conducive for traveling. Plus, summer time is the perfect time to enjoy the nation’s finest beaches in Boracay, Batangas, and Palawan. Not to mention the colorful festivals in Aklan, Cebu, and Iloilo.
Travel Light
It is always best to travel light. Bring a pair of sturdy shoes and slippers, especially when trekking some of the breathtaking mountains in the Philippines such as Mount Apo in Davao and Mount Pulag in Cordillera. Most tourist spots in the country are very much accessible by public transport vehicles such as buses, jeeps, and tricycles.
Secure Your Valuables
Never leave your valuables – money, passport, license, jewelries- unattended. Always keep them in a safe place. Or better yet, have these valuables with you at all times in your backpack or small handbag.
Enjoy
When in the Philippines, leave your worries behind; enjoy its rich natural resources and make friends with the accommodating local folks. Also, don’t miss out on the country’s delicious delicacies – from simple rice cakes to exotic dishes. Lastly, do not forget to bring home trinkets or souvenirs from local shops and shopping centers located across the nation.
Hopefully, the Philippines travel tips will make your vacation in the country a safe and memorable one.
Create a video blog
With its 7,107 islands, the Philippines boasts of some of the world’s best tourist destinations. This Southeast Asian nation remains one of the frontier travel havens in the world even if sometimes overlooked by int’l visitors because of some security reasons. Home to some 92 million people, the Philippines is surely one of the top notch destinations worth traveling to.
Traveling in the Philippines is not (as) tricky as some people may think. Due to its modernized telecommunication systems and public infrastructure, going from one scenic spot to another is as easy as 123. To make the trip more memorable and enjoyable, here are some tips to follow while vacationing in the Philippines.
Be Prepared
Proper planning is a must. Since you can visit the country any time of the year, look for travel agencies and luxury resorts that offer great and affordable vacation packages all-year round. Remember that without careful planning, your trip to the Philippines may end on a sour note.
Check The Weather
Note that the country can be prone to earthquakes and typhoons since it is situated in the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire. So the best times to visit the Philippines would be from Dec to May. The weather on these months is the most conducive for traveling. Plus, summer time is the perfect time to enjoy the nation’s finest beaches in Boracay, Batangas, and Palawan. Not to mention the colorful festivals in Aklan, Cebu, and Iloilo.
Travel Light
It is always best to travel light. Bring a pair of sturdy shoes and slippers, especially when trekking some of the breathtaking mountains in the Philippines such as Mount Apo in Davao and Mount Pulag in Cordillera. Most tourist spots in the country are very much accessible by public transport vehicles such as buses, jeeps, and tricycles.
Secure Your Valuables
Never leave your valuables – money, passport, license, jewelries- unattended. Always keep them in a safe place. Or better yet, have these valuables with you at all times in your backpack or small handbag.
Enjoy
When in the Philippines, leave your worries behind; enjoy its rich natural resources and make friends with the accommodating local folks. Also, don’t miss out on the country’s delicious delicacies – from simple rice cakes to exotic dishes. Lastly, do not forget to bring home trinkets or souvenirs from local shops and shopping centers located across the nation.
Hopefully, the Philippines travel tips will make your vacation in the country a safe and memorable one.
Create a video blog
Manila Is The Gateway To The Philippines Remarkable Attractions
Wolfgang Jaegel asked:
Manila is an enchanting tourist destination, situated at the mouth of the Pasig River on the eastern shores of the Luzon Island – the largest island of the Philippines. The capital city of the Philippine, Manila is regarded as a gateway to the nation’s remarkable attractions.
Manila is home to a vibrant metropolitan area, the Metro Manila area, sometimes referred to as the National Capital Region (NCR), of which city forms a part. A fine blend of ancient traditions and modernity, Manila showcases an exceptional range of attractions, from colonial structures and parks and museums to fantastic restaurants and exotic shopping malls.
The city is also much famed for its breathtaking vistas comprising the exceptional Manila Bay as well as its scenic golden sunset. Equally worth mentioning is the Manila’s nightlife, with an astounding array of bars, casinos, clubs, and discotheques. Above all, Manila serves as an excellent base to enjoy a variety of exciting activities.
Erected in 1571 by the Spaniards, Intramuros is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Manila. A tour to this amazing walled complex is a great way to experience the rich heritage of the place. Found within the complexes are attractions such as Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church – the oldest church of the city, Fort Santiago – a 16th century fort built on the ashes of a Muslim king, and Casa Manila – a 19th century mansion graced with beautiful furniture
There is also a museum within the old monastery of the San Agustin Church, exhibiting a rare collection of oil paintings. Further, attractions here cover the Rizal Park – a sought after area for relaxing and enjoying recreational activities. Named in the honor of Jose Rizal – the national hero, the park also holds the distinction of being the largest park in Asia. For those who want to experience the influence of China on the Philippines, a great option would be visit China Town, dotted with superb malls, shops, and restaurants.
Your Manila vacation would not be complete without taking a tour to museums in Manilas, such as, the Metropolitan Museum of Art displaying both classical and contemporary fine arts and the National Museums, or the Museum of the Filipino Peoples, with exhibits portraying the ancient history of the place.
A good number of parks and gardens also form Manila’s attractions. Some of the renowned parks in the area are Greenbelt Park comprising small malls and Paco Park, a well-manicured park which was once a cemetery. Most prominent among the gardens are Chinese Garden, Everest Hills Memorial Garden, Father Blanco’s Garden, and the Japanese Garden. Also, while your stay at Manila take a tour to some of the ancient churches in the area like Bonifacio Shrine, Manila Cathedral, and Quiapo Church.
In addition, Manila is a venue to enjoy a great number of leisure activities. A trip to such destination as Tagaytay, which is much famed for its Taal Volcano, would be unforgettable. Another must-see spot nearby Manila is Laguna, an amazing spot blessed with hot sulphur springs. Similarly, an excursion to Pagsanjan via a canoe ride offers a unique experience.
Above all, Manila is home to a number of festivals, which among many others, are Cinemanila International Film Festival, Chinese New Year, Fiesta of the Black Nazarene, Bailes de Los Arcos, Likhang Kamay, Senakulo, and Metro Manila Film Festival.
Above mentioned are just few among many of the attractions in Manila. Hence, no wonder why tourists flock to Manila all-year round. Manila has accommodation options to cater every taste and pocket. From budget villas and hotels to high-end resorts and apartment, Manila’s accommodation choices are superb.
If you are ready to spend extravagantly, you can go for accommodation that are complete with comfortable rooms, automatic wake-up call, voice mail, air conditioning, data port, and satellite TV. Such facilities as business center, private parking facility, currency exchange facilities, and internet access, are also made available. Further, many of them are within the easy reach of the city’s top attractions. There are also some hotels and resorts, providing packages inclusive of accommodation, dining, and facilities to explore the attractions of the place.
Since many of the hotels, resorts, and other service providers have their own websites, it enables for easy booking of rooms online. All you have to do with regard to online booking is to just enter their website, and inform your budget and preference. Some of them even arrange transportation facilities to pick you to and fro the airport.
Manila is an enchanting tourist destination, situated at the mouth of the Pasig River on the eastern shores of the Luzon Island – the largest island of the Philippines. The capital city of the Philippine, Manila is regarded as a gateway to the nation’s remarkable attractions.
Manila is home to a vibrant metropolitan area, the Metro Manila area, sometimes referred to as the National Capital Region (NCR), of which city forms a part. A fine blend of ancient traditions and modernity, Manila showcases an exceptional range of attractions, from colonial structures and parks and museums to fantastic restaurants and exotic shopping malls.
The city is also much famed for its breathtaking vistas comprising the exceptional Manila Bay as well as its scenic golden sunset. Equally worth mentioning is the Manila’s nightlife, with an astounding array of bars, casinos, clubs, and discotheques. Above all, Manila serves as an excellent base to enjoy a variety of exciting activities.
Erected in 1571 by the Spaniards, Intramuros is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Manila. A tour to this amazing walled complex is a great way to experience the rich heritage of the place. Found within the complexes are attractions such as Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church – the oldest church of the city, Fort Santiago – a 16th century fort built on the ashes of a Muslim king, and Casa Manila – a 19th century mansion graced with beautiful furniture
There is also a museum within the old monastery of the San Agustin Church, exhibiting a rare collection of oil paintings. Further, attractions here cover the Rizal Park – a sought after area for relaxing and enjoying recreational activities. Named in the honor of Jose Rizal – the national hero, the park also holds the distinction of being the largest park in Asia. For those who want to experience the influence of China on the Philippines, a great option would be visit China Town, dotted with superb malls, shops, and restaurants.
Your Manila vacation would not be complete without taking a tour to museums in Manilas, such as, the Metropolitan Museum of Art displaying both classical and contemporary fine arts and the National Museums, or the Museum of the Filipino Peoples, with exhibits portraying the ancient history of the place.
A good number of parks and gardens also form Manila’s attractions. Some of the renowned parks in the area are Greenbelt Park comprising small malls and Paco Park, a well-manicured park which was once a cemetery. Most prominent among the gardens are Chinese Garden, Everest Hills Memorial Garden, Father Blanco’s Garden, and the Japanese Garden. Also, while your stay at Manila take a tour to some of the ancient churches in the area like Bonifacio Shrine, Manila Cathedral, and Quiapo Church.
In addition, Manila is a venue to enjoy a great number of leisure activities. A trip to such destination as Tagaytay, which is much famed for its Taal Volcano, would be unforgettable. Another must-see spot nearby Manila is Laguna, an amazing spot blessed with hot sulphur springs. Similarly, an excursion to Pagsanjan via a canoe ride offers a unique experience.
Above all, Manila is home to a number of festivals, which among many others, are Cinemanila International Film Festival, Chinese New Year, Fiesta of the Black Nazarene, Bailes de Los Arcos, Likhang Kamay, Senakulo, and Metro Manila Film Festival.
Above mentioned are just few among many of the attractions in Manila. Hence, no wonder why tourists flock to Manila all-year round. Manila has accommodation options to cater every taste and pocket. From budget villas and hotels to high-end resorts and apartment, Manila’s accommodation choices are superb.
If you are ready to spend extravagantly, you can go for accommodation that are complete with comfortable rooms, automatic wake-up call, voice mail, air conditioning, data port, and satellite TV. Such facilities as business center, private parking facility, currency exchange facilities, and internet access, are also made available. Further, many of them are within the easy reach of the city’s top attractions. There are also some hotels and resorts, providing packages inclusive of accommodation, dining, and facilities to explore the attractions of the place.
Since many of the hotels, resorts, and other service providers have their own websites, it enables for easy booking of rooms online. All you have to do with regard to online booking is to just enter their website, and inform your budget and preference. Some of them even arrange transportation facilities to pick you to and fro the airport.
Fashionistaz of the Philippine Magazine
Christine Layug asked:
Fashion magazines are the best way on getting a low down on the latest trends in clothing, accessories and tips and guidelines on how to become fashionable. In the philippines, magazines are widely used as a means of information on how to live your life, or learn some leasons on someones experiences, may it be good or bad.
For filipinos, magazines are commonly the popular choice of information source when it comes to entertainment, games, accessories, lifestyle, home decor, art, food and cooking, and fashion. This is why eLBC, a branch of LBC, launched its first ever online magazines store in the philippines, the M-Express.
M-Express is the first ever door-to-door magazine delivery service in the country. M-Express is the convenient way to order magazines anytime and anywhere you are in the Philippines. With M-Express, you can place subscriptions or order per title allowing you the flexibility to control your budget.
M-Express is an online magazine store that not only sell some Fashion Magazine Philippines, but a wide variety of Philippine Magazine such as Art Philippine Magazine, Auto and Cycle Philippine Magazine, Business and Finance Philippine Magazine, Children Philippine Magazine, Cooking and Food Philippine Magazine, Entertainment Philippine Magazine, Fashion Philippine Magazine, Health and Fitness Philippine Magazine, Home and Gardening Philippine Magazine, Lifestyle Philippine Magazine, Men’s Philippine Magazine, Photography Philippine Magazine, Sports Philippine Magazine, Teens Philippine Magazine and Woman’s Philippine Magazine.
M-Express Philippines Magazines online store sells many kinds of Fashion Magazine Philippines such as CHALK Fashion Magazine Philippines, K Fashion Magazine Philippines, METRO the independent woman Fashion Magazine Philippines, PINK a girls guide to shopping Fashion Magazine Philippines.
So if you plan on buying any kind Fashion Magazine Philippines, then M-EXPRESS Philippine magazine online store can provide you with such. For more information about M-EXPRESS Philippine magazine online store and Fashion Magazine Philippines then visit www.m-express.com.ph.
Fashion magazines are the best way on getting a low down on the latest trends in clothing, accessories and tips and guidelines on how to become fashionable. In the philippines, magazines are widely used as a means of information on how to live your life, or learn some leasons on someones experiences, may it be good or bad.
For filipinos, magazines are commonly the popular choice of information source when it comes to entertainment, games, accessories, lifestyle, home decor, art, food and cooking, and fashion. This is why eLBC, a branch of LBC, launched its first ever online magazines store in the philippines, the M-Express.
M-Express is the first ever door-to-door magazine delivery service in the country. M-Express is the convenient way to order magazines anytime and anywhere you are in the Philippines. With M-Express, you can place subscriptions or order per title allowing you the flexibility to control your budget.
M-Express is an online magazine store that not only sell some Fashion Magazine Philippines, but a wide variety of Philippine Magazine such as Art Philippine Magazine, Auto and Cycle Philippine Magazine, Business and Finance Philippine Magazine, Children Philippine Magazine, Cooking and Food Philippine Magazine, Entertainment Philippine Magazine, Fashion Philippine Magazine, Health and Fitness Philippine Magazine, Home and Gardening Philippine Magazine, Lifestyle Philippine Magazine, Men’s Philippine Magazine, Photography Philippine Magazine, Sports Philippine Magazine, Teens Philippine Magazine and Woman’s Philippine Magazine.
M-Express Philippines Magazines online store sells many kinds of Fashion Magazine Philippines such as CHALK Fashion Magazine Philippines, K Fashion Magazine Philippines, METRO the independent woman Fashion Magazine Philippines, PINK a girls guide to shopping Fashion Magazine Philippines.
So if you plan on buying any kind Fashion Magazine Philippines, then M-EXPRESS Philippine magazine online store can provide you with such. For more information about M-EXPRESS Philippine magazine online store and Fashion Magazine Philippines then visit www.m-express.com.ph.
Domesticating Work – the Remote Staff Philippines Advantage
remotestaff asked:
Networking companies lure members by emphasizing self-responsibility. Among the thought-provoking questions often thrown at us are: Would you like to work from home and earn more? Would you like to be your own boss and be responsible for yourself? Would you like to have a growing career and profit through your network?
These questions would surely entice employees who long to earn extra, fresh graduates who look for a shortcut to high gains and self-employed who are willing to invest their money and see it multiply.
On the other side of the fence, greener promises are offered by reputable and well-established corporations, such as call centers. They attract job hunters with a periodic salary, benefits ranging from health care to car incentives, high-percentage commissions, and possible promotions to the corporate ladder. In a nutshell, its primary charm is financial assurance, thus giving networking companies a stiff competition in luring people from the workforce.
Any member of the workforce whose focus is the achievement of his goals would find both options to be very alluring. Thus, he has to carefully look into not only the advantages but also the disadvantages. Let us proceed then to our investigation.
Multilevel marketing schemes, also known as networking, promote the following benefits:
Work from home. For most people, the home is the most convenience and comfortable place to work in. During lunch breaks, one does not have to eat at an overcrowded pantry where your elbow room is the size of your plate. He may just proceed to the kitchen and scour the fridge for some ready-for-reheating food or prepare a fifteen-minute meal recommended by Rachel Ray. Moreover, one can avoid anxiety attacks brought about by deciding on what to wear the follwing day or the next week to prevent fashion redundancy. He may just wear his peejays at home and start work. Lastly, one does not have to go the extra mile in extending kindness and patience to irksome colleagues because working from home lets him take advantage of the solitude and bliss.
Work stress-free. Apart from the convenience of working from home, stress can be relevantly reduced. No more wasting two hours of your life spent on whining over the traffic congestion in every street of Metro Manila. No more overloaded buses and MRTs with nothing to offer except SROs. With less stress, time and energy are better spent on a more active lifestyle and quality bonding with the family.
Be your own boss. With great power comes great responsibility. Well, it may not be a superpower, but being your own boss still comes with responsibility. You become responsible of your time leading you to learning time management. You become accountable to your decisions resulting in wise decision-makings.
Network marketing vs. Offshore Staffing
Bright as the benefits might appear to be, disadvantages also abound in such arrangements. To have higher profits, one has to sell more of the company products that may vary from discounted beauty products to unbearably priced food supplements. What’s more, he has to recruit more people so as to exceed, not just meet, the high-leverage quotas set on a monthly basis. Another disdvantage is the few success stories of networking members. Hundreds of networking companies promise high profits. What contributes to the dearth of such success stories (despite the numerous testimonials) is the get-rich-quick marketing and recruiting schemes that easily demoralize a member who lacks patience and suddenly realizes the impossibility of such a scheme. On the other hand, the rise of business process outsourcing or BPOs in the Philippines also increased a Pinoy’s awareness to improve his English proficiency and the interest to have financial assurance.
Below are just some of the advantages of being employed becoming an outsourced staff:
Enjoy a regular salary and several benefits. If you do freelance work (read: you’re the boss!), cash flow may not be as regular as what companies can offer. If you are hired by a company, say a call center, as an entry-level employee, you will receive a semi-monthly pay unless stated otherwise in the contract. This way you can easily schedule the payment of your bills, bank transactions, and shopping, of course.
Stay at par with competition. Your competitive spirit will surely be pu to the test once you are hired by a company. As you work with your colleagues, you will realize that some, if not most, can be more talented, skilled or intelligent than you are. So you tend to outperform the others who appear to be better. If viewed optimistically, competition can be healthy and may result in mutual cooperation.
Ascend the corporate ladder. One of the opportunities presented to you as an employee is of career growth. From the ranks, you may find yourself rising to the managerial position. This vertical movement upgrades not only your salary but also your workload. Working from home where you are the boss cannot give you such an opportunity – to visualize yourself clawing your up using your skills and knowldge with a lot of help from perseverance and determination.
Being an employee of such corporations, you are tied not only to your contract but also to the drawbacks. You will be more exposed to stress – time observance, colleague competition, overtime for more profit, corporate standards, payroll deductions and others.
In philosophy, a thesis will always have an antithesis. A concession between the two will lead to a synthesis. Most Pinoys will think that the synthetic solution to enjoy self-responsibility and financial assurance is to look for overseas employment (or romance!). Once they have moved abroad, they become responsible of and to themselves. As an employee, they are also assured of financial security. However, the major disadvantage here is one has to be away from his friends, his family, his home. Thus, the ultimate synthesis to take advantage of all the benefits is opting for the offshore staff career path.
Based in Sydney, Australia, RemoteStaff.com.ph provides offshore staff to several companies in Australia using the internet and softphones as the primary means of communication. Applications and matchings between offshore staff contractors and Filipino professionals are done online. As a virtual staff, you can enjoy the benefits of working from home (self-responsibility) and a periodic salary (financial assurance).
In the succeeding articles, you will find out the advantages far outnumber the disadvantages of becoming a contracted offshore staff under RemoteStaff.com.ph
Intereste in work at home jobs? Visit www.RemoteStaff.com.ph
Networking companies lure members by emphasizing self-responsibility. Among the thought-provoking questions often thrown at us are: Would you like to work from home and earn more? Would you like to be your own boss and be responsible for yourself? Would you like to have a growing career and profit through your network?
These questions would surely entice employees who long to earn extra, fresh graduates who look for a shortcut to high gains and self-employed who are willing to invest their money and see it multiply.
On the other side of the fence, greener promises are offered by reputable and well-established corporations, such as call centers. They attract job hunters with a periodic salary, benefits ranging from health care to car incentives, high-percentage commissions, and possible promotions to the corporate ladder. In a nutshell, its primary charm is financial assurance, thus giving networking companies a stiff competition in luring people from the workforce.
Any member of the workforce whose focus is the achievement of his goals would find both options to be very alluring. Thus, he has to carefully look into not only the advantages but also the disadvantages. Let us proceed then to our investigation.
Multilevel marketing schemes, also known as networking, promote the following benefits:
Work from home. For most people, the home is the most convenience and comfortable place to work in. During lunch breaks, one does not have to eat at an overcrowded pantry where your elbow room is the size of your plate. He may just proceed to the kitchen and scour the fridge for some ready-for-reheating food or prepare a fifteen-minute meal recommended by Rachel Ray. Moreover, one can avoid anxiety attacks brought about by deciding on what to wear the follwing day or the next week to prevent fashion redundancy. He may just wear his peejays at home and start work. Lastly, one does not have to go the extra mile in extending kindness and patience to irksome colleagues because working from home lets him take advantage of the solitude and bliss.
Work stress-free. Apart from the convenience of working from home, stress can be relevantly reduced. No more wasting two hours of your life spent on whining over the traffic congestion in every street of Metro Manila. No more overloaded buses and MRTs with nothing to offer except SROs. With less stress, time and energy are better spent on a more active lifestyle and quality bonding with the family.
Be your own boss. With great power comes great responsibility. Well, it may not be a superpower, but being your own boss still comes with responsibility. You become responsible of your time leading you to learning time management. You become accountable to your decisions resulting in wise decision-makings.
Network marketing vs. Offshore Staffing
Bright as the benefits might appear to be, disadvantages also abound in such arrangements. To have higher profits, one has to sell more of the company products that may vary from discounted beauty products to unbearably priced food supplements. What’s more, he has to recruit more people so as to exceed, not just meet, the high-leverage quotas set on a monthly basis. Another disdvantage is the few success stories of networking members. Hundreds of networking companies promise high profits. What contributes to the dearth of such success stories (despite the numerous testimonials) is the get-rich-quick marketing and recruiting schemes that easily demoralize a member who lacks patience and suddenly realizes the impossibility of such a scheme. On the other hand, the rise of business process outsourcing or BPOs in the Philippines also increased a Pinoy’s awareness to improve his English proficiency and the interest to have financial assurance.
Below are just some of the advantages of being employed becoming an outsourced staff:
Enjoy a regular salary and several benefits. If you do freelance work (read: you’re the boss!), cash flow may not be as regular as what companies can offer. If you are hired by a company, say a call center, as an entry-level employee, you will receive a semi-monthly pay unless stated otherwise in the contract. This way you can easily schedule the payment of your bills, bank transactions, and shopping, of course.
Stay at par with competition. Your competitive spirit will surely be pu to the test once you are hired by a company. As you work with your colleagues, you will realize that some, if not most, can be more talented, skilled or intelligent than you are. So you tend to outperform the others who appear to be better. If viewed optimistically, competition can be healthy and may result in mutual cooperation.
Ascend the corporate ladder. One of the opportunities presented to you as an employee is of career growth. From the ranks, you may find yourself rising to the managerial position. This vertical movement upgrades not only your salary but also your workload. Working from home where you are the boss cannot give you such an opportunity – to visualize yourself clawing your up using your skills and knowldge with a lot of help from perseverance and determination.
Being an employee of such corporations, you are tied not only to your contract but also to the drawbacks. You will be more exposed to stress – time observance, colleague competition, overtime for more profit, corporate standards, payroll deductions and others.
In philosophy, a thesis will always have an antithesis. A concession between the two will lead to a synthesis. Most Pinoys will think that the synthetic solution to enjoy self-responsibility and financial assurance is to look for overseas employment (or romance!). Once they have moved abroad, they become responsible of and to themselves. As an employee, they are also assured of financial security. However, the major disadvantage here is one has to be away from his friends, his family, his home. Thus, the ultimate synthesis to take advantage of all the benefits is opting for the offshore staff career path.
Based in Sydney, Australia, RemoteStaff.com.ph provides offshore staff to several companies in Australia using the internet and softphones as the primary means of communication. Applications and matchings between offshore staff contractors and Filipino professionals are done online. As a virtual staff, you can enjoy the benefits of working from home (self-responsibility) and a periodic salary (financial assurance).
In the succeeding articles, you will find out the advantages far outnumber the disadvantages of becoming a contracted offshore staff under RemoteStaff.com.ph
Intereste in work at home jobs? Visit www.RemoteStaff.com.ph
Starting a Business Philippine Style
Flor Ayag asked:
DO YOU prefer working regular hours under a reasonable supervisor in a well-established city office? Many people do. A person with such employment may enjoy greater security than one starting out fresh in a business of his own.
In the Philippines, however, there are those who prefer taking the risk. They want to enjoy working hours suited to their needs. There will, of course, be no promotions, no occasional raises in salary and no possibility of receiving a gold watch upon retirement. But this does not particularly concern these individuals. They find satisfaction in making a living by using their own skills and sound business sense. For them, nothing can compare with the opportunity of working with wife and children all day long and counting their blessings together when evening falls.
Filipinos often start a small business right at home. Consider what some of the possibilities are.
What Kind of Business?
Do you have a hobby that could become a full-time job? Perhaps you make toys for your children. If so, could you also make toys for other people’s children? In the Philippine city of Cebu, the production of toy guitars is not simply a hobby but a profitable business. The craftsmen work at home, producing toy guitars, ukuleles, bandurias and even very professional guitars that are sold at airports and music shops. Often at the end of the workday, the hills come alive with the music of thousands of stringed instruments, as family after family plays together.
Industrious Bicol folk produce handbags, slippers and numerous ladies’ accessories from abaca fiber. Deft hands in Bulacan and Quezon provinces weave buntal hats out of the petiole fibers of the buri palm tree. Here, try this on. Cool and dignified, is it not? Here is another one. Why, it makes you look 10 years younger!
Beneath Zamboanga’s lazy blue waters are found the tapering “antlers” of black coral. Craftsmen in Quezon City and Manila fashion the coral into tiepins, cuff links, rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces. In the sandy seabeds off Surigao, Samar, Leyte and Panay, one can discover a treasure trove of shells—tiger cowrie, conch, lupo and kapis. Nimble hands make these into curtains, lampstands, windowpanes and chandeliers, which inhabitants of Paris, London or New York city would be proud to display in their homes.
Shoemaking may seem like an unlikely venture. But, in 1884, young Kapitan Moy bought a sturdy pair of British shoes. Back home he got more interested in the shoes. So he took them apart, and then put them back together again. Soon he set up a shoemaking shop and began sharing his new skills with neighbors. Almost a century later, the town of Marikina is going full speed ahead in the shoe-manufacturing business. In many, many homes of this town, grandpas, grandmas, papas, mamas and children home from school, busy as bees, are making the shoes that some of us will probably be wearing tomorrow. “Today,” says the Marikina Shoe Trade Commissioner, “we export shoes to many countries, including the source of Kapitan Moy’s shoes which he bought back in 1884.”
The growth of Marikina’s shoe trade has meant more business for other towns. For example, Meycauayan in Bulacan supplies Marikina with much shoe leather. In turn, Marinduque, Masbate, Mindoro, Palawan, Romblon and other islands keep Meycauayan supplied with hides from cattle and carabaos. They also furnish alligator, goat, pig and snake skins for shoes, handbags and belts.
Many Filipinos open small stores or operate stalls in the public markets. Family members usually take turns tending these stalls in the markets of Kamuning, Cubao, Tondo and elsewhere. Divisoria Market in Manila is said to be the biggest market of its kind in the Philippines. It is not one vast supermarket owned and run by a single individual or company, but consists of thousands of small family stores under one roof. Haggling over prices here is an art honed to perfection.
The Government Lends a Hand
Aware of the potential of “cottage industries,” the Philippine government offers some aid to enterprising Filipinos. There are free seminars on various crafts. A course is even offered on raising mushrooms.
Government assistance is also provided to help people to improve the quality of their products. In Albay, for instance, many have advanced from making clay pots to the study of ceramics. In Ilocos Norte, people are learning how to make bricks and tiles.
The Philippine Daily Express, in an August 17, 1974, editorial, reported that the National Science Development Board has sent food-training experts to 39 Philippine provinces, “propagating different methods of food processing, so that items like coconut water, excess vegetables, seasonal fruits and small fish may be put to commercial” uses. This has resulted in the formation of “18 cottage industry cooperatives.”
Cooperatives? Yes, these are formed when several small businesses join together for mutual protection and profit. They are duly registered with the proper government bureau. The government encourages the establishment of cooperatives by granting them tax exemption and various forms of protection. These cooperatives enable the group to buy at factory prices, to sell at lower prices than they could individually and then mutually to share the profits.
For people who still prefer to be in business on their own, help is offered through the National Cottage Industries Development Authority (NACIDA). This agency gives valuable pointers on making Philippine handicrafts. The government also grants a five-year tax exemption for those registered as having their own “cottage industry,” enabling many to continue in operation and to prosper.
Financing the Business
But where do people get the money to start in business? Actually, very little may be needed. For example, a young man sold a ring. With the proceeds he started a small jewelry business. Today he can also sell, not only jewels, but even the dust in his workshop for good money. Why? There is gold in every pinch of it!
Another man discussed the matter with his in-laws. They liked his project and provided some 200 pesos (about $30, U.S.) each. Now his coral craft brings in a sizable income, and all share in the profits.
Some banks maintain lending offices in public markets to assist stall holders financially. Wise Filipinos avoid unscrupulous money lenders whose high cumulative interest rates can quickly gobble up not only profits but the entire business capital as well.
Is It for You?
Going into business for yourself has some advantages. A person is usually freer to make his own daily schedule for work and recreation. He is not responsible to any supervisor and he may have more time to relax with his family. By choosing the type of work that appeals to him, he avoids being tied down to a boring job just to make a living. He can also enjoy the challenge to his ingenuity that his business provides.
But there are risks. A person can lose his capital through bad management or unforeseen problems. Competition or inflation could cut profits. Then there is the anxiety about being successful, since running one’s own business may lack the security of being in someone else’s employ. It may be, too, that more time has to be spent in caring for the business than had been anticipated.
DO YOU prefer working regular hours under a reasonable supervisor in a well-established city office? Many people do. A person with such employment may enjoy greater security than one starting out fresh in a business of his own.
In the Philippines, however, there are those who prefer taking the risk. They want to enjoy working hours suited to their needs. There will, of course, be no promotions, no occasional raises in salary and no possibility of receiving a gold watch upon retirement. But this does not particularly concern these individuals. They find satisfaction in making a living by using their own skills and sound business sense. For them, nothing can compare with the opportunity of working with wife and children all day long and counting their blessings together when evening falls.
Filipinos often start a small business right at home. Consider what some of the possibilities are.
What Kind of Business?
Do you have a hobby that could become a full-time job? Perhaps you make toys for your children. If so, could you also make toys for other people’s children? In the Philippine city of Cebu, the production of toy guitars is not simply a hobby but a profitable business. The craftsmen work at home, producing toy guitars, ukuleles, bandurias and even very professional guitars that are sold at airports and music shops. Often at the end of the workday, the hills come alive with the music of thousands of stringed instruments, as family after family plays together.
Industrious Bicol folk produce handbags, slippers and numerous ladies’ accessories from abaca fiber. Deft hands in Bulacan and Quezon provinces weave buntal hats out of the petiole fibers of the buri palm tree. Here, try this on. Cool and dignified, is it not? Here is another one. Why, it makes you look 10 years younger!
Beneath Zamboanga’s lazy blue waters are found the tapering “antlers” of black coral. Craftsmen in Quezon City and Manila fashion the coral into tiepins, cuff links, rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces. In the sandy seabeds off Surigao, Samar, Leyte and Panay, one can discover a treasure trove of shells—tiger cowrie, conch, lupo and kapis. Nimble hands make these into curtains, lampstands, windowpanes and chandeliers, which inhabitants of Paris, London or New York city would be proud to display in their homes.
Shoemaking may seem like an unlikely venture. But, in 1884, young Kapitan Moy bought a sturdy pair of British shoes. Back home he got more interested in the shoes. So he took them apart, and then put them back together again. Soon he set up a shoemaking shop and began sharing his new skills with neighbors. Almost a century later, the town of Marikina is going full speed ahead in the shoe-manufacturing business. In many, many homes of this town, grandpas, grandmas, papas, mamas and children home from school, busy as bees, are making the shoes that some of us will probably be wearing tomorrow. “Today,” says the Marikina Shoe Trade Commissioner, “we export shoes to many countries, including the source of Kapitan Moy’s shoes which he bought back in 1884.”
The growth of Marikina’s shoe trade has meant more business for other towns. For example, Meycauayan in Bulacan supplies Marikina with much shoe leather. In turn, Marinduque, Masbate, Mindoro, Palawan, Romblon and other islands keep Meycauayan supplied with hides from cattle and carabaos. They also furnish alligator, goat, pig and snake skins for shoes, handbags and belts.
Many Filipinos open small stores or operate stalls in the public markets. Family members usually take turns tending these stalls in the markets of Kamuning, Cubao, Tondo and elsewhere. Divisoria Market in Manila is said to be the biggest market of its kind in the Philippines. It is not one vast supermarket owned and run by a single individual or company, but consists of thousands of small family stores under one roof. Haggling over prices here is an art honed to perfection.
The Government Lends a Hand
Aware of the potential of “cottage industries,” the Philippine government offers some aid to enterprising Filipinos. There are free seminars on various crafts. A course is even offered on raising mushrooms.
Government assistance is also provided to help people to improve the quality of their products. In Albay, for instance, many have advanced from making clay pots to the study of ceramics. In Ilocos Norte, people are learning how to make bricks and tiles.
The Philippine Daily Express, in an August 17, 1974, editorial, reported that the National Science Development Board has sent food-training experts to 39 Philippine provinces, “propagating different methods of food processing, so that items like coconut water, excess vegetables, seasonal fruits and small fish may be put to commercial” uses. This has resulted in the formation of “18 cottage industry cooperatives.”
Cooperatives? Yes, these are formed when several small businesses join together for mutual protection and profit. They are duly registered with the proper government bureau. The government encourages the establishment of cooperatives by granting them tax exemption and various forms of protection. These cooperatives enable the group to buy at factory prices, to sell at lower prices than they could individually and then mutually to share the profits.
For people who still prefer to be in business on their own, help is offered through the National Cottage Industries Development Authority (NACIDA). This agency gives valuable pointers on making Philippine handicrafts. The government also grants a five-year tax exemption for those registered as having their own “cottage industry,” enabling many to continue in operation and to prosper.
Financing the Business
But where do people get the money to start in business? Actually, very little may be needed. For example, a young man sold a ring. With the proceeds he started a small jewelry business. Today he can also sell, not only jewels, but even the dust in his workshop for good money. Why? There is gold in every pinch of it!
Another man discussed the matter with his in-laws. They liked his project and provided some 200 pesos (about $30, U.S.) each. Now his coral craft brings in a sizable income, and all share in the profits.
Some banks maintain lending offices in public markets to assist stall holders financially. Wise Filipinos avoid unscrupulous money lenders whose high cumulative interest rates can quickly gobble up not only profits but the entire business capital as well.
Is It for You?
Going into business for yourself has some advantages. A person is usually freer to make his own daily schedule for work and recreation. He is not responsible to any supervisor and he may have more time to relax with his family. By choosing the type of work that appeals to him, he avoids being tied down to a boring job just to make a living. He can also enjoy the challenge to his ingenuity that his business provides.
But there are risks. A person can lose his capital through bad management or unforeseen problems. Competition or inflation could cut profits. Then there is the anxiety about being successful, since running one’s own business may lack the security of being in someone else’s employ. It may be, too, that more time has to be spent in caring for the business than had been anticipated.
