Travel & Leisure
Puerto Princesa Underground River
Palawan is popularly known as The Last Frontier . It is the largest province in the Philippines that lies between the South China Sea and Sulu Sea. Among all other things that Palawan is very well known, its 8.2 kilometer underground river in Puerto Princesa City which is one of the best destinations now being promoted by the Department of Tourism (DOT). A world-class destination, the Subterranean River National Park is recognized as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations.
Puerto Princesa Palawan
Palawan river (Photo by Ric Gonzales)
Every year, thousands of tourists visit Puerto Princesa City to experience the river boat cruise at the underground river. The cool temperature, calm and clear waters, extraordinary rock formations and rare fauna are only few of the attractions of the place. Meanwhile, Palawan is also known for its century old mangroves. I just wish I could visit the province soon. It is one of the places in my country that I have yet to see.
Captivating view of Mt. Pinatubo crater
Watch out for the resumption of the Mt. Pinatubo Trek in April next year!
This was the announcement of Regional Director Ronaldo Tiotuico of the Department of Tourism – Region III in a press statement issued recently.
Tiotuico said that he called on Mayor Antonio “TJ” Rodriguez of Capas, Tarlac to discuss issues and concerns pertaining to the DOT-initiated project called Mt. Pinatubo Ecotourism “Kabuhayan sa Turismo” Program which was instituted way back in 1999 when an access trail to the volcano was discovered in Brgy. Sta. Juliana in Capas. Since then, more than 600 Aeta residents gained livelihood thru travel and tourism by serving tourists as porters and guides including operators of homestay program.
The program was awarded two international and one national award for its achievement in bringing livelihood to an indigenous community, namely: Gold Award for best ecotourism project by Pacitic Asia Travel Association (PATA) in 2001, Kalakbay Award by the national government in 2001 and best ecotourism project by ASEAN Tourism Association in 2002.
Mayor TJ expressed confidence that a joint undertaking with the tourism office will again spur the development of the forlorn village of Sta. Juliana and the town in general as a major destination in this part of the province.
Mayor TJ was informed of the economic benefits that the Aeta community gained as a result of the livelihood program that the regional office begun in 1999. He said that it is about time that the town be known as the only gateway to Mt. Pinatubo crater and hence transform the community into the most favored destination.
And so, Dir Tiotuico and Mayor TJ agreed to resume the conduct of the trekking adventure to the volcano next year to propel the community of Aetas to greater heights. Tiotuico pledged to channel all proceeds from the trek towards the development of Sta. Juliana.
Among those to be invited to the trek include government officials, media groups, professionals, tourism stakeholders and trekking enthusiasts from the region and nearby environs. Some 200 trekkers are expected to participate in the event.
The SOJ Band -- Kryz Umlas on vocals, Loyd Canoza on lead guitar, Richard Garcia on rhythm guitar, Diong De Leon on drums and Jason Ducut on bass.
One of the rising rock bands in Pampanga — the SOJ — is now making waves in the local music scene. Their upcoming gig with Kamikaze and Rico Blanco at the Courtyard is a must see event on October 2. The group composed of Kryz Umlas on vocals, Loyd Canoza on lead guitar, Richard Garcia on rhythm guitar, Diong De Leon on drums and Jason Ducut on bass, is currently working on its first album titled “New Day”.
The SOJ Band
The album is set to be released early next year with a promise of new sound for all the alternative rock lovers in town. Groovin’ with their distinct music style, SOJ is being loved for its versatility, fun and funky tones. The band’s original songs are mostly a mix of groovy funk and alternative rock. SOJ’s new vocalist, Kryz Umlas, has also added sizzle to the group with his groovy strides on stage and powerful voice. Don’t be mistaken, he is definitely hitting the right notes even with a voice that is naturally amplified.
SOJ
Watch out for SOJ this coming ‘ber months as they invade Pampanga’s rock music scene. Catch them on Facebook, just type “Soj Sonsofjupiter” or simply search for the sons of jupiter. For more information or bookings, call Mini Arceo at 0917-510-4998 or e-mail at minerva_arceo[@]yahoo.com.
SM Clark Cyberzone relaunching
Cyberzone held its relaunch last Feb 27,2010 at the second level of SM Clark
Pampanga. Hosted by Gio Respall, the event was totally outrageous with the participation of some of Angeles City’s young and energetic hiphop dancers.
The group did some, which they call, ”mop dancing” at the event center to create awareness. While dancing in front of the flock of crowd the host invited the people to participate at the second level for an hour of dancing and receive surprise gifts from stores found at the cyberzone.
SM Clark Cyberzone
Viola!At the second floor, the dance free within Cyberzone was held at both
entrances. The crowd were engrossed with the trivia questions while hopping and received some gadgets from various stores at Cyberzone.
On the other hand, Cyberzone features the latest in computers, communication gadgets, cellphones, games, and more. Visit their stores and get the best buy they offer!!! also present in the vent were SM Clark Asst Mall Manager Anna Datu and SM Clark PR Officer Venus Manalang. (Story by: Rey Pineda)
