Filipino | beyond toxicity

Posts Tagged ‘Filipino

May

SOMETHING ABOUT BARONG TAGALOG

Categories: HEADLINES and PHILIPPINES
Tags: barong tagalog, beyond toxicity, doc gelo, docgelo, expatriate, ferdinand e marcos, ferdinand marcos, filipiniana, Filipino, filipino expat, filipino in malaysia, filipino in penang, marcos, philippine costumes, pinoy abroad, pinoy expat, the philippines

It took me few days to bring my Barong Tagalog for its much needed dry cleaning to the laundry shop located just in front of the building of our appartment. I wore it proudly when I and my family graced the 2012 Malaysia International Tourism Blog Awards in Saloma Theater, Kuala Lumpur last May 8th. You all know by now what happened in the awards night; now here’s what happened inside the laundry shop :

Me : Hello! Good afternoon! Do you do dry clean here, Sir?
Old Malaysian man about age of 60s, perhaps : “Yes! What do you call that? ….Philippine!”
Me : “It’s called Barong. Our national costume in The Philippines.”
Old Malaysian man : “Ahhhhh…. Barong!”
Me : “How much do you charge for dry cleaning a Barong, Sir? And when can I collect it?”
Old Malaysian man : “Today is Saturday, so tomorrow Sunday -store is closed. You can collect it on Tuesday. You pay 6 ringgit.”
Me : “OK, Sir, I’ll pay now and I shall collect it around 6:30PM, Tuesday.”
Old Malaysian man putting my Barong closer to his chest : “Can you wear Barong without a shirt inside?”
Me : “Oh no, Sir. We wear it with plain white undershirt underneath. Barong is worn in formal occasions.”
Old Malaysian man : “Ohhhhhh… Can you wear it with jogging pants, like this?” –pointing to what he was wearing.”
Me : “No, Sir. We wear it with slacks or formal dark pants.”
Old Malaysian man : “So if I want Barong, I go Philippine and buy. Where can I buy and how much?”
Me : “You can buy Barong Tagalog from Department stores or even in huge public markets.”
Old Malaysian man : “Ohhhhh… I see. How much?”
Me : “The price usually varies with the material or the cloth that was used. This Barong, I only got cheap for around hundred ringgit (FYI, I bought that particular Barong in Tutuban Mall in Divisoria, where else?) But as I have said, prices go up depending on the material. It can go as high as one thousand ringgit (Php 14,000) or even more expensive specially if it’s a designer’s label and/or the cloth is made of pineapple fiber.”
Old Malaysian man : “Ohhhh….the one worn by Marcos.“

Aug

3 YEARS IN A ROW

By docgelo 18 Comments

Looking at photographs of annual events makes me more reflective on how time flies so fast. On my son’s photos taken from their preschool’s celebration of Linggo Ng Wika every August, it’s so apparent how he has grown from a cute and chubby boy to a charming little man now.

On August 2008, Gabby who was then a Nursery pupil, was a little Katipunero in their parade.

A year later in his Kindergarten, he appeared like a very young statesman, so dapper in his Barong Tagalog; charming, isn’t he?

And just last week, Tina emailed me the photo that showed how she became resourceful and creatively made used of our old table runners from Baguio City and bought some rooster feathers just to transform Gabby to look like someone from the Northern Philippines.

Our son was assigned by his preschool teacher to be the “apo” or looked like a “mumbaki” to me, as the entire Preparatory level was dressed to represent the northern tribes… Gabby led his group in dancing the lullaby chant of the natives, Salidumay.

For 3 years since he started schooling, this was my very first time to be absent in his activities.

There goes the little sacrifice of an OFW dad.

——————————<@

Aug

KNOCK, KNOCK!

By docgelo 17 Comments

Categories: Attitude, TRAVEL and WORK
Tags: doc gelo, docgelo, doctor, education, Filipino, filipino abroad, lecturer, malaysia, medical educator, medical lecturer, medicine, ocw, penang, pinas, Pinoy, pinoy abroad, professor

Doors of opportunities open at a given time, it’s up to us whether we enter or leave.

I wasn’t ambivalent when the chance to work abroad came along about a couple of months back. I am dead sure to do the job that has been my passion despite the sacrifice of leaving my wife and son back home. I strongly believe that if you’ve set your mind and heart on something, the yield is nothing but positive.

On my 15th day of stay in Penang, Malaysia, my cup still overflows with gratitude to everyone who have contributed in bringing me to where I am now. I am only at the foot of the so-called mountain-to-climb but I feel so fortunate for each day has been a blessing.

Everything would not be possible if the entire universe did not conspire. To my family, closest friends and their relatives, to the people who brought me to this work in this medical university, I am and will forever be thankful.

I am sharing with you the simple words I’ve emailed to my employers this morning with the hope to infect you with gratitude.

Greetings!

I’d like to express my sincerest gratitude for giving me a chance to work with other Filipino Medical educators, and be a part of whom you called the school’s Meducationists. Rest assured, Sir, that I will contribute to the growth of the medical school and its people with the best of my abilities.

Thank you too, for facilitating our accomodation and making us feel so welcome in Penang.

I take pride in being a part of our institution.

Sincerely,
docgelo

Jul

THUNDERBIRD RESORTS, LA UNION (part 2): FOOD PORN!

By docgelo 15 Comments

Categories: EVENTS, FOOD & MORE FOOD! and TRAVEL
Tags: bulgogi, doc gelo, docgelo, emparedados, Filipino, Filipino cuisine, filipino dishes, Filipino food, food, food blog, food blogger, foodie, halo halo de iloko, ilocano dishes, ilokano food, italian cuisine, korean food, la union, la union food, la union restaurants, Life, no other woman beach, no other woman beach resort, okoy, pad thai, paradise, Philippine tourism, philippine tourist spots, pinoy dishes, Pinoy food, pizza, poro point, resort, resorts in asia, resorts in the philippines, summer, summer in the philippines, tbr asia, thai food, thunderbird resort, thunderbird resort asia, thunderbird resort philippines, thunderbird resorts, thunderbird resorts la union, tourist spots in southeast asia, tourist spots in the philippines, vacation spots, vigan longganisa, wedding location

26 July 2010, Monday–THUNDERBIRD RESORTS, a Santorini-inspired piece of paradise in La Union, Philippines offers infinite possibilities. Beyond its Mediterranean architecture and interiors that provides leisure and recreation, it’s a foodie’s heaven.

I had the privilege of experiencing the world-class resort and savoring the food with 9 other passionate Filipino bloggers as we gave in to the resorts’ irresistible invitation to a 3-day-FREE accomodation and tour.

After 6 hour-trip from our meeting place in Makati City to the resort itself at Poro Point, we were brought first to VEGAS CAFE; a restaurant and bar adjacent to the FIESTA CASINO of THUNDERBIRD RESORTS. It was indeed a fitting feast 3 days before I submit myself to a whole new universe as I begin to work as a medical college lecturer abroad.

I smiled from ear to ear when I learned that we’ll be having an order-and-eat-what-you-want meals during our stay. How can you resist such prelude to indulgence? Best of all, everything’s FREE (thank you, TBR!).

Take a peek at OUR GASTRONOMIC ADVENTURES…

Ala Carte LUNCH at VEGAS CAFE, TBRPhilippines

A basket of freshly baked breads and butter…

CHEF’S SALAD, PhP 250+ Iceberg lettuce topped with strips of Swiss cheese, chicken, beef, & your own choice of dressing. Surprisingly, the serving was humongous! Larger than anyone’s appetite.

SEAFOOD CHOWDER SOUP, PhP 150+, One of the BEST tasting chowder I’ve ever tasted.

SUSHI-SASHIMI COMBO, PhP 750+ This was my personal choice for lunch. Beautiful, isn’t it? Yummy too!

BULGOGI, PhP 385+ a Korean dish made of thinly sliced beef marinated in slightly sweetened soy sauce, sesame oil and garlic.

SEAFOOD MEDLEY (left), PhP 480+ Grilled prawns, salmon and dory. SURF and TURF (right), PhP 500+

I washed down my Japanese treat by savoring a tall glass of ripe mango shake…

Desserts, anyone?

PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE (left), PhP 200; Puree of pumpkin with cream. PANACOTTA (right), PhP 200 Italian rum and milk pudding.

Then I and other fellow bloggers had a cup of brewed coffee.

End of lunch. Burp!

Let’s move on to OUR DINNER on the same day.

At around 8PM, all of the 10 invited bloggers were shuttled to the Vegas Cafe again after a relaxing afternoon at our cozy and spacious deluxe rooms. Dinner was ala carte again and we’re not complaining.

Everyone agreed to mostly Pinoy and few Asian dishes for our sumptuous supper.

CRAB and CORN SOUP (left); POTATO SALAD and SEAFOOD PENNE PASTA (right) from the spread.

KARE-KARE, a personal favorite; however I want the peanut sauce creamier and thicker.

CRISPY PATA. Let’s not talk about calorie count, ok? Indulge, whenever possible. LOL!

Thai dishes, anyone?

KHAO PAD (left) and PAD THAI (right).

SINIGANG na SUGPO, another classic Pinoy favorite. The more sour, the better.

CHICKEN INASAL (left) and FOUR SEASONS (right)

After dinner, half of the group decided to burn the calories by strolling the distance of about several meters from Vegas Cafe to the hotel. Perhaps, most of them absorbed the thoughts I shared about digestion and food intake.

A glorious morning came the next day and I thought I woke up in Greece.

We were advised to take a heavy buffet-breakfast at OLIVES, the restaurant located near the lobby, enough for us to last for the scheduled City tour that day.

Few minutes after I had those 2 plates, a glass of fresh four seasons juice and a cup of coffee, we headed to our La Union City Tour (last part of this blog series).

We had a long but fun day that we savored every minute in places we’ve been to. We were brought to a locally famous and quaint hole-in-wall restaurant in San Fernando City. It’s called HALO-HALO DE ILOKO which boasts of, what else but Halo-Halo and other Ilocano dishes.

This late merienda was another new stimuli for my palate.

clockwise : OKOY TIKYOSKO, PhP 85+ : shrimps, sprouted monggo, squash, malunggay leaves. It was a vegetarian feast. HALO-HALO de Iloko, around P135+ : has all the ingredients plus a bit of strawberry that wasn’t found in my glass. EMPAREDADOS or Native Hamburger/Sandwich PhP 80+. It’s a pair of fried buns with Vigan longganisa, mayonnaise filling.

That was indeed a satisfying heavy merienda.

After which, we were brought back to the hotel and since my fellow blogger and I have to leave that night for Manila while the rest of the group still had their 3rd day at the Casino the next day, we were offered to try pizza at OLIVES before being heading home.

Wood fire-baked pizza…

We tried PIZZA ILOKANO, PhP 400+ (left): Tomato concasse, mozzarella, cheddar cheese, Vigan longganisa, tocino, tuna and onion.and PIZZA QUATTRO STAGIONI, PhP 470+ (right) : Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, parma ham, fresh mushrooms, and mozzarella.

Good food.

Enticing place.

Great company.

One passion.

Thank you, THUNDERBIRD RESORTS and to my fellow Pinoy bloggers–Ann, Kristel, Betty, Sol, Hanna, Vince, Estan, Oggie and Ferdz, it’s a pleasure to have dined with all of you in these digestive feasts Burp!

——————————<@

THUNDERBIRD RESORTS, Poro Point Freeport Zone, San Fernando City, La Union, Philippines.

Makati office : 24/F Salcedo Towers 168 HV Dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati City 1227. Tel No# (63-2) 886-5555.

——————–<@

Special thanks to the warmest people of TBR especially to Ms. Nica Serrano.

Up next : San Fernando City and Luna, La Union Bloggers’ Tour.

Feb

A WALK WITH DRAGON + LIONS

By docgelo 46 Comments

Categories: EVENTS, FOOD & MORE FOOD!, HEADLINES and TRAVEL
Tags: binondo, binondo church, binondo food wok map, binondo manila, bloggers, chinatown sidewalk, chinese, chinese charms, chinese community, chinese new year, chinese new year celebration, chinese temple, chives dumplings, doc gelo, docgelo, dong bei, dong bei dumplings, dragon dance, family, family and living, Filipino, food, food blog, fresh lumpia, fruits, glutinous rice, glutinous rice cakes, ivan man dy, kuchay dumplings, lawton, lion dance, lion dances, liwasang bonifacio, lumpia, manila, manila central post office, manila chinatown, manila post office, new po heng lumpia, nian gao, ongpin, ongpin binondo, ongpin manila, Philippines, pinas, Pinoy, plaza lawton, po heng, po heng lumpia, seng guan, seng guan si, seng guan si temple, seng guan temple, te ya kong, te ya kong temple, the big binondo food wok map, tikoy, valentine, valentine's day, vegetable spring rolls, vegetables

Mr. Sun was shining its brightest as everyone celebrated Valentine’s Day + Chinese New Year. There was never a day better than last Sunday to take a walk through the streets of Manila China town.

I arrived at Manila Central Post Office fronting Liwasang Bonifacio, now known as Plaza Lawton, a few minutes before 10:30AM. This majestic building served as our meeting place for Dong Ho’s KaESKAPO sa Binondo.

I was lucky to be chosen as one of the 5 among the many blogger-followers of Dong Ho’s ESKAPO to explore Binondo on foot using The Big Binondo Food Wok Map by Ivan Man Dy of Old Manila Walks.

The blog contest winners were selected based on Dong Ho’s querry :

Why do you deserve this map and join this food trip ?

It was a pleasure meeting young breed of fellow bloggers Chyng, Cher, Josh, and Ann (with her BF); all of us were recipients of this map from the Dong himself. Although I was the most senior of the group, it just felt like I was only with my students, less the toxicity of classroom lectures We were all amazed how The Big Binondo Food Wok Map was conceptualized; it points out heritage trail and of course, the most interesting food shops in the heart of Manila, from the cheapest finds to the most upscale restaurants. The coupons in the map for some freebies were certainly not left unnoticed.

After a short briefing about the activity and a casual intro to ourselves, we started the walk that led to one-of-a-kind-Binondo trip.

I am not new to the place. I have been to Binondo and Ongpin areas up to Recto and Divisoria countless times actually. But exploring it with strangers bloggers whom I haven’t met is a new experience for me and perhaps the same thing for them. Gladly, we instantly gelled as we enjoyed several hours together.

We’re fortunate to witness a Dragon Dance just few steps from the gates of Manila China town after Escolta.

We had a short stop at Binondo Church…

Then after I uttered my prayers, we headed off to Ongpin…

A festive welcome to the Chinese New Year isn’t complete without Lion Dances…

The colors of Ongpin and its side streets never fail to fascinate me… I’m sure my fellow bloggers were also delighted with such vibrant hues!

From freshest fruits to veggies, lucky charms and figurines; gold jewelries and more; almost everything is in Ongpin!

Although our son, Gabby had been to Ongpin more than a couple of times recently, I’d also wished him to experience Chinese New Year in Binondo. But his mom and I agreed for them to stay at home to avoid too much crowd and all. He’ll surely enjoy the celebration soon when he grows older.

After a few steps and shots, we headed to our food tripping!

Our first stop : the immediate left street at the back of Binondo Church for some remarkable dumplings!

It was only my second time to try DONG BEI DUMPLINGS - the famous KUCHAY or CHIVES DUMPLINGS of Binondo. I’ve written something about these dumplings May of last year, after I’ve tasted them and compared with the same steamed delight from a Chinese resto in a mall (view HERE! ) The major difference : Dong Bei’s version is more flavorful but doesn’t have overpowering taste. Plus, you get to view how it is prepared…

Freshly made dumplings, anyone ?

Your options : Plain Kuchay or Plain Pork; Combinations of Kuchay + Pork (last year I had Kuchay + Shrimp) either steamed or fried; 13 -14 pieces for only PhP100+. Guess what our team had? All of them! Have you tried Dong Bei’s Kuchay Dumplings ? How do you like them ?

Their both best dipped in chili sauce! Some of my co-bloggers didn’t like them that much, perhaps because it’s quite new to their taste buds or they’ve been more familiar with other Chinese dumplings than chives.

Dong Ho (not the owner of Dong Bei, LOL!) also introduced as to Dong Bei’s PANCAKES! These aren’t your usual pancakes served with butter + syrup *yum!* but it’s fried with stuffings of ….surprise –> Kuchay +Pork again! But its thin fried dough was more sticky than the fried Kuchay dumplings and thankfully, both were less oily.

And since I vowed with Tina and Gabby not to drink Coke and other sodas again (deliver us not into temptation, hehe!), I tried for the first time this Chinese iced tea on a can (but forgive me, although i hope it has less sugar, it’s carbonated too!)

My co-blogger Chyng didn’t like the canned Chinese cold tea that much; it was OK for my taste but nothing to rave about and would not cause you to crave for it.

After that quick bite at Dong Bei, the walk continued to the corner of Tomas Pinpin + Ongpin Streets where a shrine is venerated by Tsinoys.

SANTO CRISTO DE LONGOS

Note that incense sticks are used by the prayerful to adore the Holy Cross. It’s an apparent fusion of Catholic and Chinese beliefs.

Moving on… Do you like Tikoy ? What’s a Chinese New Year without Tikoy a.k.a. NIAN GAO / YEAR CAKES or Glutinous rice cakes ? What’s Binondo without horse-driven kalesas? (Note to Gabby : We’ll ride kalesa one day either in Manila or in Vigan!)

My wife knows how we share the love for FRESH LUMPIA. This made our next pit stop as one of my favorite food places we’ve been to. I recall one of my kind readers, JP recommended this when I posted SOMETHING ABOUT LUMPIA few weeks ago.

Tucked inside Uysubin Building beside HSBC, located along Quintin Paredes Street, is a courtyard where New Po Heng Lumpia House is.

I guarantee you satisfaction from these freshly rolled Hokkien-style lumpia! For only PhP 45 per roll, you can taste heaven in every bite! What I like about Chinese Fresh Lumpia is the inclusion of fried vermicelli + seaweeds and lotsa ground peanuts! It’s so delicious even sans sauce! I give my two-thumbs up to New Po Heng Lumpia! Definitely, it won’t be my last there; i’ll surely bring my family and friends there soon.

As we entered New Po Heng, we’re lucky to see the Ivan Man Dy in person on his last leg for that day on his Old Manila Walks. Dong Ho introduced us to him and to my surprise, he said, “Oh you’re the doctor who joined Chuvaness’ contest. Did you win?” I smiled back and said “No” (It was another blog contest with his map and his TOUR as one of the top prizes–The question was : If you were a Chinese dish, what would you be and why? My answer : Chinese Fortune Cookie -Because I believe I am more than meets the eye). I wasn’t only starstruck but was literally in awe because Ivan actually reads comments and entries! Wow!

Chyng had taken the chance to have photo-op with Ivan. I was shy to do so. Perhaps when I and Tina find time to join his once-a-month-Malacanang tour. Ivan is nice; he even offered us tikoy, part of the freebies he was giving to his local and a few foreign tourists who joined his walk.

Another treat for us bloggers was when Ivan introduced the next guy to our table as the TUTUBI of BACKPACKING PHILIPPINES AND ASIA. It was really one lucky day!

Still following some suggested heritage trail in The Big Binondo Food Wok Map, our group went to Ongpin again and went up flight of stairs to visit TE YA KONG TEMPLE…

Seeing almost all people in red, lighting incense sticks and praying, I can’t help but to admire the Chinese-Filipino community for their strong faith.

After several minutes, we’re on to our next merienda stop (I like the way we took this “NO-RICE”- Binondo Food trip; LIGHT & YUMMY) : SHANGHAI FRIED SIOPAO! Have you sampled one already ? It’s more flavorful than ordinary siopao.

The Dong bought fried siopao for all of us and split the bill just before we part ways. We brought them to Eng Bee Tin restaurant where Dong Ho suggested to have refreshing avocado shake; but it wasn’t in season so we all went for the next best thing : mango shake! (I like riped mango). I just forgot to ask Dong Ho how much fried siopao a piece but the mango shake was so good at PhP 50+.

Then after another hearty snack, we’re on our feet again for our last pit stop… On way there, we passed by Plaza Calderon dela Barca right in front of Basilica Menor del San Lorenzo a.k.a. Binondo Church…

I like fountains. (note to self : work for you to bring your family to Europe one day!). The sight of dripping water somehow recharged me to walk a few kilometers from Binondo to Reina Regente, Recto and finally reached Narra Street at the back of Tutuban Mall where the biggest and grandest of Chinatown’s Buddhist temples…

SENG GUAN SI TEMPLE

The facade of Seng Guan Si Temple is already amazing but there’s more than that beautiful front this place of worship has to offer.

The first floor was awesome. But the second floor of this temple was even more fantastic! There was even an enormous section that’s probably considered as the most sacred of them all. I thought that part of the temple is comparable to the Catholic church’s Adoration Chapel.

It was indeed a loooong tiring day but believe it or not, I enjoyed it to the fullest! Although I wasn’t with my family (Gabby + Tina), I’m glad to meet and gain new blogger-friends. Thanks, Dom (a.k.a. the Dong Ho)! Sa uulitin!

We could not let the day pass without taking photos of ourselves of course! So meet my Ka-Eskapo sa Binondo :

from left to right : The Dong Ho and docgelo; right : Chyng, Josh and Cher. photos by Cher Cabula (thanks, Cher!) these photos were taken at New Po Heng Lumpia courtyard.

Newbie and young blogger, Ann with her BF Archie and on right photo, the Chinese charm Dong Ho got for each of us.

One last group shot before parting ways… photo by Dong Ho

You may want to view (again) my previous posts about this most interesting part of Manila called Binondo. Thanks!

CHINESE NEW YEAR 2009 AT MANILA CHINATOWN

ESTERO EATERY IN ONGPIN

WAI YING

MR. UBE

DONG BEI DUMPLINGS

BINONDO EXPLORED

JANUARY 2ND 2010 IN ONGPIN PART 1

JANUARY 2ND 2010 IN ONGPIN PART 2 : PRESIDENT’S TEA HOUSE

Dec

LEARNING BEYOND BOOKS

By docgelo 17 Comments

08 December, 2009, Tuesday – After we had a hearty late lunch in a classic Chinese restaurant, EMERALD GARDEN in Manila, we explored a place that is exclusively dedicated to fun and learning.

My wife, Tina and I usually maximized our days off from work by spending extra quality time with our preschooler son, Gabby. And whenever we go out, we always make sure that Gabby will enjoy. Just a couple of weeks ago, we went to PHILIPPINE SCIENCE CENTRUM in Riverbanks, Marikina City and seven days back we had another special trip to MUSEO PAMBATA in Roxas Blvd., Manila.

This interactive children’s museum allows visitors, both kids and young-at-hearts to touch exhibits, play and experienced everything hands-on. It’s a place that encourages a total-senses-child learning. I believe in that too –I always tell my nursing students and reviewees that ‘learning is easy when all senses are utilized’.

Since Museo Pambata was only established in 1994 when Tina and I were already college students, we had no chance to be there during our wonder years. Nevertheless, it isn’t too late to become a kid again; not that we’re having 2nd childhood already, heck no! we’re too young to have dementia and all, LOL But with Museo Pambata, the kids in us were unleashed once more!

Illustration above via MUSEO PAMBATA.

Who says learning can’t be fun?

The museum is divided into several sections : PAMILIHANG-BAYAN / Market Place, PAGLAKI KO / Career Options, KATAWAN KO / Body Works, TUKLAS!/Science Through Discovery, MAYNILA NOON / Old Manila, KALIKASAN/Environment, and many more.

I personally found the MARKET PLACE as most amusing. Kids can assume to tend a store or pretend shopping in wet and dry sections or perhaps in a shoe or drug stores.

In PAGLAKI KO / Career Options, Museo Pambata gives children a bird’s eye view of work opportunities when they grow old. Gabby enjoyed becoming a community worker for a while…

Money matters! Even kids should learn that hard-earned money should be valued at all cost.

There’s a small section near the Market Place where kids get to feel how it is to be in rural areas of the country…

While the Market Place seemed the most amusing, KATAWAN KO /Body Works section’s the most interesting for us. Just like in the old Science Centrum years ago, there’s a similar version of those anatomical parts in humongous scales! It’s hard to resist not to go through the exhibit’s main entrance – a wide-mouth! One will pass through it down to esophagus, stomach, and intestines and out to you-know-where!

In TUKLAS / Science Through Discovery, there are similar pieces that we’ve seen already in PHILIPPINE SCIENCE CENTRUM but Museo Pambata’s versions are more well-maintained; thus, more inviting for visitors.

What’s a museum without retelling a history ? On the first floor of the museum are 2 fascinating exhibits — KALIKASAN / Environment on the left side, and on the right, MAYNILA NOON / Old Manila.

Have you seen a small scale of Binondo Church or Basilica Minor de San Lorenzo Ruiz? FYI, It’s a nice replica where visitors can go inside and take pictures of the church. This section of Old Maynila also brings back museum goers to the era of Galleon Trade and the days when Meralco Tranvia de Manila was still one of the modes of transportation in Manila. Sayang, authorities could have kept this tram until now for people to appreciate and still serve its purpose like the tram in San Francisco. Oh,well, at least we have the LRTs now.

Who says learning history is always boring ?

I cannot imagine Pinoy History without Dr. Jose Rizal, Katipunan and the evolution of flags…

The old Pinoy house, furnitures and all also caught our interest…

Some important aspects of Mother Nature is replicated at the section called KALIKASAN /Environment…

Do you agree with me that every Pinoy kids should be brought to this fun place ? I wish parents are reading this post.

Have you been to Museo Pambata ? How was your experience ?

MUSEO PAMBATA, Roxas Boulevard corner South Drive, Manila (It’s beside US Embassy in Manila and at the end corner of Kalaw Ave. and Roxas Blvd.) Entrance fee is PhP 100 for kids and adults, walk-in. Teachers with valid ID are free; Manila residents are given discount. Museum is closed every Mondays. Museum hours : 8AM-5PM (Aug-March) and 9AM-5PM (April-July).

Oct

SPONGEBOB LOVE

By docgelo 28 Comments

Categories: EVENTS, FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO and FOOD & MORE FOOD!
Tags: birthday, celebrations, children's party, divisoria, divisoria mall, doc gelo, docgelo, family, family and living, fatherhood, Filipino, food, food blog, foodie, kid's party, manila, parenthood, party, Pinoy, preschool

On his first birthday, he wore a muti-colored-custom-made clown costume because my wife and I decided to have a Finding Nemo themed birthday party at home with our parents, relatives, friends. He then matched the real clowns present on his day.

His second birthday party was done at McDonald’s Greenhills. He had two birthday cakes and more than 50 guests. Grimace, the mascot graced the occasion.

My wife, my parents and I only went to TriNoma mall in Quezon City with him and had dinner at a Filipino restaurant called Mangan with his 3 mini-cakes that we bought from Breadtalk on his third birthday.

He went to preschool before his fourth. Since then, he already has his own preference. At his Nursery class, he had Mr. Bean themed party complete with party hats and all that’s fun.

For his fifth birthday…

The THEME : Someone who lives in a pineapple under the sea!

The INVITES…We were working on a budget and my wife can’t tolerate crowded stinky places as she easily feels dizzy, worse her vertigo might be triggered, not to forget she wasn’t off from duty at the Opeating Room, so I was alone when I went to the basement of Divisoria Mall in Manila just to buy these fancy invites for PhP 2 per piece. 168 Mall didn’t have the supplies I was looking for.

I grew up going to the streets of Ylaya, Tabora and Juan Luna in Divisoria every start of a new school year with my parents, whenever they buy us (me and my 3 brothers) new sets of things for school : from socks, undergarments, hankies, etc. in some Chinese-owned wholesale store. So buying stuffs for my own kid now and haggling were so damn easy for me.

The LOOT BAGS…I honestly thought of having paper instead of plastics for the loot bags as I am concerned, believe it or not, with the environment. But I failed to find commercially available paper bags with the prints in line with the party theme and I and my wife had no time doing art works made of paper just for the loot bags. These cost PhP 20 per 10 pieces (also PhP 2 a piece).

What’s inside the loot bags? Each has a hand towel (PhP 75 per dozen) , a pencil (PhP 15 per dozen), a pad of stickers (PhP 3 per pad) and a plastic sheet of stickers (PhP 2.25 per sheet), fruttos candies, marshmallows and lollipops (PhP 120 for 5 packs from the Landmark in TriNoma), and…. that’s it! We’re on a budget, remember? LOL

The CAKE…I guess for every Pinoy-children’s party, Goldilocks cake doesn’t disappoint. This choco-marble-flavored Spongebob- fishing-for-Jellyfishes-theme (less the Jelly fishes for they ran out of stock and were replaced with gold choco coins with my consent–didn’t I just tell you they don’t disappoint? LOL) was ordered 2 weeks ago at a branch near our place for PhP 855; inclusive of the cake and the themed decor. It’s a bit expensive for a low-key party but heck, what’s a themed party without a themed cake?

The FOOD…The party meal was prepared, cooked and packed by my wife, Tina (applause, applause!). The photo above doesn’t give justice to how the food tasted. Those breaded chicken fillets were deep fried to its crispiest; and the macaroni in beefy sweet tomato sauce was also a winner. The kids loved it.

Did I do any cooking? Hmmm, I did slice the hotdogs into pieces and, believe it or not again, I cooked the gravy! I just mixed flour in water, heated the pan with water, 3 chicken cubes, soy sauce and a bar of Anchor butter into boil and voila! - chicken gravy tasted better than Jollibee’s, LOL. The kids loved it too!

The GIFTS…His classmates were sweetest to give presents. It’s a mutual thing between them.

The PARTY PEOPLE…….Children are a gift from the Lord!

Our smiles went up to our ears when we heard comments, “ang sarap!…, ang cute ng cake!… ang sarap ng food!” from these kids. You know children don’t tell lies

The BIRTHDAY BOY…

Our son’s birthday wish for a Spongebob Squarepants themed party was granted. Thanks to the mighty forces behind the successful simple event -myself and my wife

Seriously, we thank the Lord for His endearing Love and we can’t thank Him enough for blessing us with Gabby.

On our part, we always pray for Gabby to have a better health- away from any sickness and for him to be safe at all times.

Gabby : (while on his facebook) Daddy, ano pong spelling ng THANK YOU?

Tatay-doc :

We love you Gabby!

What’s your fondest memory of your own kiddie party? …Don’t you just miss being a kid?

Aug

YOGURT LOVE

By docgelo 13 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO and FOOD & MORE FOOD!
Tags: amici, cara mia, doc gelo, docgelo, Filipino, food blog, foodie, frozen yogurt, FYI yogurt, gelato, gelatone, Ice cream, il terrazo, Philippines, pinas, Pinoy, red mango, red mango yogurt, restaurants, shangri-la mall, the white hat, tomas morato, white hat yogurt, yogurt

My family (referring to Tina & Gabby) and I have glucose levels going haywire lately.

Good thing we know how to control it (referring to our craving, lol).

We usually dwell on Starbucks with venti cups of white choco mocha frappuccinos and caramel macchiato beside a slice of heavenly cake or corned beef pandesal and we still long for more cups and dose of caffeine, but our sweet tooth also desires for more sublime desserts…

We’ve been enjoying both the regular and Italian ice cream called gelato…

–>click on photo and view post about it.

GELATONE's GELATO

AMICI / CARA MIA's gelato

Then, there was a day we began to look for great-tasting yogurt…

Golden Spoon : Yogurt that tastes like Ice Cream

Red Mango frozen yogurt

RED MANGO's green tea and original frozen yogurt

Yoh Gurt Froz

Tina likes fro yo of YOH GURT FROZ over others for their CHILLED/FROZEN toppings that don't melt the yogurt quickly.

Last weekend, we got to taste WHITE HAT FROZEN YOGURT from their branch at Shangri la mall.

Our four-year-old son ordered regular sized yogurt from White Hat with KITKAT chocolate wafer toppings..

I had blueberries, mandarin oranges and kiwi as toppings while our friend Rob, enjoyed heaping cup of cherry-topped White Hat yogurt.

The staff at the counter was sweeter than her yogurt when she handed me a discount promo card…

White Hat staff should be trained more on how to properly topped those yummy yogurt so it won’t spill and would still be appetizing once served. We also finished those cups and enjoyed till the last scoops, nonetheless.

Then this afternoon, we went to Il Terrazo in Tomas Morato for lunch (I’ll post it soon) and after that hearty Japanese pig-out, Gabby asked his mom and I to buy him what else but yogurt, this time from FYI…

Gabby had his favorite Kitkat-topped yogurt again! Note that FYI’s kitkat yogurt was crushed to bits as against to The White Hat’s kitkat cut into cubes-toppings. I don’t know with Gabby’s but Tina and I liked what we shared…

This is FYI’s yogurt topped with maltesers and almond chips, sarap!

Do you like yogurt too ?

HAVE A SWEET WEEKEND

Aug

KOMERSYAL MUNA

By docgelo 9 Comments

Categories: EVENTS and HEADLINES
Tags: bloopers, doc gelo, docgelo, Filipino, Philippines, pinas, Pinoy

Last Wednesday, my wife and I joined the entire nation and the rest of the Filipino communities worldwide in spirit of sadness as we’re deeply affected with the demise of the icon of Philippine democracy and freedom. We also rejoice and celebrate that she’s now with our Creator and is presently free of physical pain and sufferings. She lived a full life that inspired most of us Pinoys to continuously value our faith and strong belief that the we are indeed worthy of all of their sacrifice; and with that we’ll forever be grateful.

But can you honestly spot what’s wrong with the photo below? Please convince me that this was not done on purpose neither a SUBCONSCIOUS WISH of the many, lol.

Feel free to post your comment/s.

Aug

A BOX OF HAPPINESS

By docgelo 25 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO and FOOD & MORE FOOD!
Tags: balikbayan box, cargo, chocolates, desserts, doc gelo, docgelo, Filipino, food, food blog, foodie, padala, Philippines, pinas, Pinoy, sweets

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Few minutes after I woke up yesterday morning, I heard the door bell rang. Then I saw someone was at the gate asking for my wife. As I approached him, I also saw a delivery truck; I knew it was the package from my in-laws that we were expecting.

I guess giving pasalubong or padala from someone abroad to their families and relatives here in the Philippines is one unique Filipino trait that we had been used to. And my relatives abroad and in-laws are not an exception.

Go to an arrival area of any airport and you’ll see a balikbayan box from a Pinoy definitely. Only Pinoys aren’t satisfied with just luggages; there has to be those boxes! In fact, some business-minded individuals have been so creative in producing zippered nylon bags that can cover and protect these balikbayan boxes.

I remember my aunt in LA used to keep balikbayan boxes in their garage that we saw when we were there several years ago. We’re told that she continuously add things to those boxes bought whenever they’re on out-of-season-sale from branded shops and factory outlets and in groceries in California. A balikbayan box usually contains samu’t-sari – from clothes and toiletries to chocolates and cans of spam and corned beef, lol.

Upon seeing it, our preschooler son, Gabby became too excited to open this huge heavy box. However he had to wait until the day’s over.

After dinner time, as my sister-in-law came over to get her family’s share, my wife Tina and Gabby finally opened the box with the usual stuffs, properly labeled with the names to whom the things are due. It has towels, T-shirts, pants and shorts, perfumes, make-ups and toiletries, a mobile phone, and yes, canned goods and coffee! :D

It was the first time Gabby witnessed the opening of a balikbayan box and he was delighted with what he saw inside…

These were just a fraction of its contents. Of course, what caught my attention were the yummies that are enough to keep us hyperglycemic for few weeks months, lol. :D

I know everything should be consumed in moderation otherwise, a visit to the dentist might be inevitable.

I love pistachios (even as an ice cream flavor), so glad a big pack was included in the box. I also like those microwavable popcorns; too bad our oven retired from its service that we have to buy another before we get to enjoy those snacks get to pop.

I can’t blame my son for being so excited with all these sweets that he got from his grandparents… And have I told you that I like those Hershey’s Special Dark Mildly Sweet Mini Chocalte bars?

It’s not that recipients of a balikbayan box cannot afford to buy these stuffs here (defensive, lol), but the gesture of sending some things to your love ones and receiving gifts are sweeter than a box’s contents.

The package contained sweet candies and stuffs that anyone can buy, but my son’s joy that came with it was priceless!

Aug

PINOY ART & LRT PART 2

By docgelo 13 Comments

Categories: whatever
Tags: acrylic on canvas, art, art contest, arts, doc gelo, docgelo, Filipino, Filipino lifestyle, Filipinos, gateway mall, LRT, LRT PAINTING CONTEST, manila, metro manila, oil in canvas, painting, Philippine arts, Philippines, pinas, Pinoy, quezon city, visual arts

Barely a month ago, I posted an entry about an art contest conducted by LRT Authorities that featured Filipino life inside the train that makes public transportation in some areas of Metro Manila readily accessible. View my former post here —> PINOY ART & LRT .

Unexpectedly, it was still on display; so I got a chance to view the exhibit again yesterday at the LRT Araneta Center-Cubao station as I went to Gateway mall. I’ve clicked my cam to note the titles of the masterpieces and the names of the remarkable Pinoy painters.

Take a peek at the entries and see the frame that championed the contest as you scroll down this post. Enjoy!

Daytoy Iti Biag Ko by Isagani P. Carlos, acrylic on canvas

If you’re a Filipino and you’re Catholic, you’ll surely admire how the artist of the painting below depicted our faith.

Last Trip ni Sante, Kalong Munting Bro by Godofredo F. Zapanta, Sr., oil on canvas

The next entry gave me a smile. As a father to our preschool son, I can relate to this simple art work.

Kaagapay sa paglalakbay by Dean Mark Enoza, acrylic on canvas.

It’s nice to see Araneta Coliseum, the clock tower of Manila City Hall and Rizal monument in Luneta together in one canvas. These places are reachable within 20 minutes via LRT…

Ayan na ang tren! by Marvin D. Gonzales, acrylic on canvas.

I like the use of primary colors in this abstract…

Sulong Pilipinas – Lalarga din Tayo by Patrick B. Fernandez, acrylic on canvas.

Agos Enerhiya by Joseph S. Domirez Jr., acrylic on canvas.

LRT, Kabalikat ni Juan sa Kaunlaran by Ronald L. Jeresano, acrylic on canvas.

And the painting that won GRAND PRIZE …

Sakay na rin po kyo by Mario B. Panis, oil on canvas.

Hats off to all Filipino artists! Thank you for sharing your talents. Mabuhay po kayo!

Jun

TATAY-DOC’S DAY!

By docgelo 4 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO and FOOD & MORE FOOD!
Tags: bibingka, buco pandan, cakes, dad's, Dad's Ultimate Buffet, daddy's day, desserts, father's day, Filipino, Filipino food, food, food blog, foodie, Glorietta, glorietta 3, ham, Japanese food, Kamayan, makati restaurants, Philippines, pinas, Pinoy, Pinoy food, restaurants, roast beef, Saisaki, sashimi, sushi, tempura

Warning : This post contains gastronomically stimulating photos and you may want to have a glass of water with you while you view. Enjoy…

I celebrated Father’s day with my wife, Tina and our son, Gabby for two consecutive days at two different venues. Needless to say, I’ve got the happiest stomach last weekend!

After Gabby and I got sick of mild viral infection last week, this year’s Daddy’s day out had more meaning by being thankful that we both regained our health as if nothing happened. It’s but logical to enjoy the weekend and savor another family bonding moment. We attended anticipated mass last Saturday afternoon at Greenbelt Chapel (that I’m posting after this entry) after our hearty lunch in Glorietta 3. Amidst the countless restaurants in Makati, there’s one spot where Gabby loves kani tempura the best… yes, our 4-year-old son already prefers crab tempura better than hotdogs and burgers! So we usually have buffet brunch or dinner at one of the affordable buffets in the Metro, where else but…

That’s my first platter of sushi, tempura and few slices of sashimi from Saisaki. Dad’s Ultimate Buffet includes Saisaki and Kamayan that offer Japanese and Pinoy food spreads respectively (and continental for Dad’s). We always have these blue plates which also mean cross-over buffet or access to those 3 buffet sections.

And just after finding our table at Saisaki, the manager on duty (ispooting na ispooting in tux, LOL) asked us if we would like our Ebi tempura to be served at our table (so as to avoid stampede at the buffet spread-JOKE!), he got my approval ofcourse! I was too weak to resist, LOL.

Then I walked through the open kitchen where I found my favorite Japanese soup Sukiyaki (I’m not a fan of miso soup, sorry), while Gabby opted for the thick and creamy seafood chowder from Kamayan. Take your pick…

Surprisingly, SAISAKI was having a theme of SUSHI IN THE CITY (a delicious spoof of sex and the city series) so the spread of sushi and sashimi improved a lot better since we last dined there few months back. The yummies were presented more stimulating to the palate and to eyes. If you like these Japanese starters, feast your eyes on this spread… (I repeat : these plates were at spread, not on our table, LOL)

There’s an art in every roll…

It’s advisable to call and make a reservation for table/s or at least to be early before the doors open at 11AM for lunch or at 6PM for dinner buffet. We were just on time for lunch last Saturday and I’ve clicked my cam on those gastronomic delights. Those tamago rolls (egg) are one of my favorites, with California maki and other sushi. The tuna and salmon sashimi were just right at every slice, without that fishy after taste, they were really perfect for soyed wasabi!

By mere posting this I’m craving again for those yummy sushi! Tina had her own preference, this was her plate…

I like that shredded crab sticks with Japanese sticky rice and generous slice of ripe mango wrapped in nori; my wife shared it to me and it was really sarap!

Now if you don’t fancy those sushi and sashimi, I can’t blame you but you should know you’re missing the world, LOL, anyway, you might be interested with the other spread most especially the desserts…

Before those delightful sweets, let me show you the plate I didn’t finish… well, almost. I just stuffed and hid the few slices of left-overs with tissue papers and used chopsticks … This was my carnivorous-protein-rich platter from Dad’s and Kamayan… While on the right was my surprised gift from Enervon prime adult milk given by a promo lady.

The roasted pig’s skin was crispy as expected. I also enjoyed the salty sweet ham from Dad’s but I was surprised that the staff in the carving station put 3 slices of ham on my plate when I only asked for one. I didn’t notice it because my eyes were glued to the other dishes, LOL. So I failed to eat them all, sayang. The roast beef was not that tender. I asked for 2 slices from the medium well-done part but still it didn’t pass my expectation. But the Lengua from Dad’s is always a winner for me. The slices were far from having gum-consistency and the mushroom gravy was also perfect. Tina also had ceasars salad from this spread which she shared with me. It’s healthy to eat fruits and veggies in between during buffet dining…

There’s so much more food in Kamayan but we only had few bites of bibingka with muscovado and puto-bumbong…

On with those desserts : This was Gabby’s plate after he munched on those kani tempura.

His mom got those for him from these plates at the buffet…

Tina and Gabby got scoops of ice cream in strawberry, mocha and chocolate flavors. The scoops were also bottomless however we only had these cups and tasted other favorite sweet treats…

While Gabby was enjoying these bite-sized cakes and pastries, I got some fibrous fruits from Saisaki and Tina had Buco-pandan from Kamayan…

When I paid the bill, I asked the manager to validate my DAD’S HAPPY DINER card (which they hand in to customers after dining) and by doing so, we’ve completed 10 required signatures thus we’re already given one FREE BUFFET on our next visit (Mon-Thurs) before August 19. Count few weeks and we’re off to Dad’s again, LOL.

After each buffet in Makati, whether it’s on Dad’s Saisaki Kamayan or in hotels (we’ve tried Dusit Thani and Shangri La’s Circles Events Cafe, you may want to hit my search engine here to view those posts) we always try to roam the entire Makati shopping district, LOL, to burn those calories and cholesterol we ingested. So after that “ultimate” lunch, we strolled Landmark, Glorietta and Greenbelt which I’ll post next…

BURP!

————————–

DAD’S ULTIMATE BUFFET include KAMAYAN & SAISAKI -GLORIETTA 3 MAKATI – (632) 892-8898.

Ultimate Buffet costs PhP 590 for adults, half price for kids.

Jun

ALAB

By docgelo 4 Comments

Categories: EVENTS and HEADLINES
Tags: Filipino, Independence day Philippines, love of country, nationalism, patriotism, Philippines

Sa lahat ng mga Pinoy saan man sa mundo, maligayang ika-111 araw po ng kalayaan!

Ano man ang saloobin natin sa mga nangyayari sa bansa - sa kasalukuyang politika, problema sa kalusugan, edukasyon, kahirapan, polusyon at korapsyon, marapat pa din nating ipagbunyi at ikarangal na tayo ay binubuklod ng ating bansa at pagka-Pilipino.

Hindi man Pebrero at Araw ng EDSA….

Mabuhay po ang lahat ng Pinoy na gumagawa ng kabutihan na inspirasyon sa karamihan! Pagpalain nawa po tayo ng Maykapal.

May

MANILA EXPLORED PART 3

By docgelo 5 Comments

Categories: FOOD & MORE FOOD!
Tags: binondo, chinese cuisine, chinese food, chinese restaurant, docgelo, estero, estero eatery, estero ongpin, Filipino, food, foodie, manila, ongpin, pinas, Pinoy

A visit to Ongpin Street isn’t complete without tasting authentic Chinese cuisine.

NIDO SOUP, anyone? It was a bit sad when the waitress told me that it won’t be served with boiled quail eggs because they’re unavailable last Sunday afternoon when I ordered. Nevertheless, I wasn’t disappointed; the soup was thick and delish! Affordable too, at PhP 80.

I LOVE SEAFOODS! I can eat this everyday, LOL.

SHRIMP with MUSHROOM… served with thick buttery soy sauce. PhP 90.

SCALLOPS with BROCCOLI… thick buttery soy sauce plus a dose of calcium-rich broccoli, so yummy! also cheap at PhP 110.

I’ve tried Dong Bei kuchay dumplings (view former blog post), enjoyed and regarded it as one of the best steamed dumplings but my my palate is craving for more oriental yummies. I’ve eaten in Hap Chan, MXT and the President’s tea house before but never tried the chinese food fastfood or carinderia in the ESTERO until yesterday, Sunday.

Opo… Ongpin Street a.k.a Manila Chinatown Estero or canal! Eateries literally located beside that canal offers sumptuous but affordable and authentic Chinese cuisine. Would you dare yourself to eat on those food stalls with red painted walls literally located beside an estero?

To be honest, I expected worse: to eat a la carte dishes while being disgusted with unpleasant estero aroma, LOL. however my expectations were not met but was truly delighted with the experience.

This is a marker on the ONGPIN NORTH BRIDGE shown above which is few steps from the ESTERO FASTOOD.

The yummy food above were prepared, cooked and served here : ESTERO FASTFOOD, and real fast! They also have menu, mind you…

Inspite of its location beside an estero, the small eateries there were packed with hungry stomachs, Pinoys and foreigners too, who all craved for great food at cheap prices. Hey, if Chef Anthony Bourdain of No Reservations show got a taste of Ongpin food few months ago, I think it’s a must-try for all Pinoys to visit Manila Chinatown too. I did’t get any gastrointestinal symptoms afterwards anyway. LOL.

Apr

MY 15 MINUTES IN QUIAPO

By docgelo 7 Comments

Categories: Uncategorized
Tags: black nazarene, carriedo, catholic, christianity, doc gelo, docgelo, Filipino, manila, Philippines, pinas, quiapo, quiapo church

I am no stranger to Quiapo. I practically grew up going to this place every so often. We frequent Quiapo church since childhood especially when doing Visita Iglesia during Holy Week. When I went to college & enrolled in my pre-medical course at Far Eastern University, I continued going to the church & to the side streets of Carriedo when securing/renewing NBI clearance & buying some cheap finds. Until now, since my work place is in TM Kalaw Ave., Manila, I usually drop by Quiapo whenever possible.

I ran an errand in Manila this morning and I found myself in the vicinity of Quiapo Church again. It’s so darn hot and as early as couple hours before noon, there was already a multitude of people from all walks of life. I suddenly remember that today is Friday : Quiapo day! (Friday is the novena/mass day for the Black Nazarene).

Quiapo is both spiritual & commercial district in the heart of Manila. It’s a slice of Manila where people who are marginalized and those with so much, meet as hopefuls and prayerfuls. The strong Catholic faith of countless Filipino devotees who flock to the Basilica of Black Nazarene to ask for penance or pray for miracles, or simply pay homage or show gratitude for blessings; some even walk on knees to the altar, is a common scenario within the vicinity of Quiapo during Fridays.

I managed to say my prayer outside the church and did not dare squeeze myself inside the church where a huge crowd was attending the Holy Mass.

A huge LCD screen brings the Mass to the crowd outside. Then the homily caught my interest when I overheard the priest including a “Kapamilya teleserye : Tayong Dalawa” scenes in his homily. How creative! LOL.

Then for few minutes, I took photos with utmost caution knowing that amidst devotees and prayerful are snatchers & thieves. And these scenes were caught with my random clicks.

The obelisk in Plaza Miranda with colorful balloons being sold by numerous vendors.

I wonder if those balloons can withstand the heat and still be considered as saleable items to kids.

Sampaguita vendors who try to earn a decent living despite the irritating summer heat. I wish they do something to enjoy more what they do other than chatting with each other. Humming Beyonce Knowles’ “Single Ladies” or a local song “Hawak Kamay” may kill time while at work, don’t you think? LOL. And may I ask why is there a need for Quiapo Church authorities to put a signage as “BAWAL UMAKYAT”? I mean, who in his RIGHT MIND would do such thing? If any guy who’ll try to climb those barriers is schizophrenic or illiterate, now why bother to put such warning? It’s absolutely pointless! It’s the same as “BAWAL UMIHI” or “BAWAL TUMAWID, NAKAMAMATAY!” signs printed in pink aluminums on other public main roads. I just don’t get it! You don’t need to stress or emphasize things which are apparent to begin with and those things that require less intellect but instinct.

Plaza Miranda and the vicinty of Quiapo church aren’t complete without the rows of fortune tellers. In this age of digital whatever, they still exist, their “BUSINESS” must have been really good! LOL. Seriously, I can’t comprehend why Church people tolerate this practice since God knows when, when in fact they preach that only the Good Lord knows tomorrow. Don’t get me wrong, I’m nothing against making ends meet by fortune telling, but isn’t there more APPROPRIATE venues to do such “business” ?

ITO PA ISA! And why in the world those “PAMPA” (pampa-regla, pampa-galing etc) LEAVES & VINES being sold outside a Catholic Church? I think the house of God deserves our highest respect. And selling these so called HERBAL MEDICINES which are NOT approved by DOH/Department of Health and BFAD/Bureau of Food and Drugs, is again improper and illegitimate “medical” practice. As a licensed physician, I know a list of herbal medicine approved by DOH which are clinically tested to render positive effects. But these things sold in Quiapo are not bounded by such studies and are only supported by BELIEFS and “RURAL CULTURE” from generation to generations.

I’m OK with flowers & candles since these are being used in religious veneration. But again selling it near a church is another story.

The stalls beside the church that sell images of saints from Sto. Niño to Blessed Virgin Mary and others.
132

My heart breaks whenever I see physically-challenged individuals who still try within their means, to make a living. I honestly admit that inspite of everything, I have frustrations and disapointments but the sight of these people who have strong will to go on with life, always gives me a reality check.
141

It’s just always crowded in Quiapo and its side streets : Hidalgo, Carriedo etc.. It’s one of the busiest places in the Metro. But it appears to me now that Quiapo deserves a MORE SERIOUS MAKEOVER. I wish authorities and the public come out with efforts in bringing GLORY, “CLEANLINESS” and ORDERLINESS back to Quiapo. I hope those bandits, thieves, snatchers, and other ill-natured individuals realize that individual reform is a must. Don’t you wish for Quiapo to be a SAFE place even for our kids?

Till my next Quiapo visit.

Apr

BINONDO in MAKATI

By docgelo 1 Comment

Categories: FOOD & MORE FOOD!
Tags: ayala center, binondo, cheap food, cheap pinoy eat, chinese dim sum, chinese food, dim sum, Filipino, food, foodie, Makati, makati malls, ongpin, Philippines, Pinoy, president tea house

Yes, you read it right… Binondo is now in Makati.
Binondo’s famous PRESIDENT TEA HOUSE is now offering its best chinese eats
in foodcourt of Glorietta 4, in Ayala Center Makati.

This afternoon of Black Saturday (a day before Easter) we headed to Glorietta Mall in Makati to see a movie but since we haven’t eaten our lunch yet, & undecided where to dine, we immediately hit the foodcourt. And ofcourse, Tina, I & even Gabby agreed for us to order our late lunch from PRESIDENT…

Affordable combo meals that satisfied our chinese food craving…

Yang chow fried rice, fried calamares, & sweet & sour pork, with blanched veggies & fried prawn crackers + iced tea for PhP 145 ( steal !)

Yang chow fried rice, fried calamares & beef with brocolli with blanched veggies & fried prawn crackers + iced tea for PhP 145…

Dim sum is sold at PhP 65 per tray… how’s that?

We chose crab siomai & mini pao with sauces to spice ‘em up…

Burp !

President Tea House
3rd floor Food Choices
Glorietta 4, Ayala Center,
Ayala, Makati City

other branches : Binondo, ATC/Alabang Town Center, SM Mall of Asia.

Apr

WHAT’S YOUR PRIORITY?

By docgelo 2 Comments

Categories: Attitude and whatever
Tags: actions, Attitude, doc gelo blog, docgelo, Filipino, goals, holy week, lent, lenten season, Life, love, manila, personality, Philippines, pinas, prioritization, priority, recollection, reflection, religion, retreat, what do you do?

On this season of lent,
reflecting on our lives as mortals,
we have to give importance to each minute of our existence
& utilize it to the fullest.

Life is damn short;
no one is certain about tomorrow.
In so many things that we have to do daily,
over & beyond our busy schedules,
have you REALLY thought of your HIGHEST PRIORITY?

take your pick…

3427360957_e9f1aa3d36 I study.
I lead.
I inspire.
I believe.
I cook.
I travel.
I eat.
I smile.
I raise.
I breathe.
I drink.
I take.
I give.
I receive.
I search.
I paint.
I sing.
I talk.
I teach.
I heal.
I build.
I motivate.
I write.
I blog.
I preach.
I post.
I work.
I see.
I hear.
3427360957_e9f1aa3d36 I say.
I play.
I rest.
I drive.
I laugh.
I sleep.
I follow.
I feel.
I admire.
I forgive.
I dwell.
I grow.
I improve.
I pay.
I read.
I think.
I withstand.
I swear.
I stand.
I dream.
I change.
I decide.
I pray.
I listen.
I uphold.
I promote.
I help.
I search.
I encourage.
I love.

————————————–
Have a blessed lenten season everyone!
cheers,
docgelo =)

“Believe in yourself and you will inspire others to believe in themselves”
- Kevin C. Brown

Apr

TAKIPSILIM

By docgelo 2 Comments

Categories: Uncategorized
Tags: asia, bay sunset, baywalk, doc gelo blog, docgelo, Filipino, Life, manila, manila bay sunset, pasay city, Philippines, Pinoy, roxas boulevard

I consider myself optimistic, or at least I always try to be one.
Most people associate sunrise with positivism
& sunset as with the opposite.
But a lot of people see beauty in Manila Bay sunset.
And that’s something positive.
You can’t blame them.
It’s truly poetic.
Sublime.
Surreal.

In times when most things in Manila seem to go haywire,
it’s refreshing to look at its sunset once in a while.
Dusk for me is a promise of a new day…
And everyone will agree that we have the best in Manila Bay.
If only we can appreciate it,
even amidst financial & political crises,
we’ll be reminded that there’s so much more
to hope for.

I found myself one late afternoon along Baywalk in Roxas Boulevard, Manila.
And I surrendered to the fact that Manila Bay sunset is indeed breathtaking…

those kaleidoscope lamp posts in perfect queue at the promenade add colors to the twilight…

The graying Manila skyline is always worth your glimpse, isn’t it?

Apr

PACMAN

By docgelo Leave a Comment

Categories: HEADLINES
Tags: boxing, doc gelo, doc gelo blog, docgelo, Filipino, manila, manila's best, Manny Pacquiao, mark wahlberg, marky mark, pacman, Pacquiao, Philippines, ricky hatton, sports

Pacquiao is so Hollywood now!
Mark Wahlberg, no less, favors him over Ricky Hatton…
Aww, este, wow!

who's your bet ?

Boxers Ricky Hatton (L) of Britain, actor Mark Wahlberg (C) and Manny Pacquiao pose on the red carpet as they arrive for a news conference in Hollywood, California March 30, 2009. Hatton and Pacquiao will meet for a junior welterweight (140 lbs) bout at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on May 2.

I may not be a 100% fan of him, but
what I admire in Manny is his dedication to his sports.
He trains hard before all of his fights.
He’s an inspiration for anyone who prepares for any endeavors.
No wonder even Hollywood superstar Marky Mark is betting on him.
We’ll know on May 2.
que sera, sera!

Mar

PRINCIPLED NEGOTIATOR

By docgelo Leave a Comment

Categories: HEADLINES
Tags: Filipino, manila, Philippines, religion, tony blair, tony blair in manila, tony blair in RP, tony blair in sofitel philippine plaza

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It’s weird because I haven’t been to that part of the world but I’m fascinated to anything in Europe – from places, things to whatever and ofcourse its culture and people.
I like Marks & Spencer the way I like Tony Blair.
Man, he is simply ICONIC !

blif1 If I am filthy rich, I could have attended his rare speaking engagement here today, 23 March 2009 in Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel Manila. But I was far from being one, lol. And there are more important things to settle financially than to avail of the least amount of ticket for Tony Blair’s Manila conference. Ticket prices range from PhP 1,120 to whopping PhP 25,000 ! But damn, it surely was one for the books. “Some guys have all the luck” and at this point, I’m not one of them; perhaps next timeline, lol.

I like his say on religion and I quote : “I hope and believe that stories of people not being allowed to express their Christianity are exceptional or the result of individual ludicrous decisions. My view is that people should be proud of their Christianity and able to express it as they wish.”

Born as Anthony Charles Lynton “Tony” Blair on 06 May 1953, he became United Kingdom’s prime minister from March 1997 to June of 2007. He is now a representative to the Middle East, representing the United Nations, the European Union, the United States, and Russia.

Feb

I’LL STOP d WORLD & MELT with U

By docgelo Leave a Comment

Categories: Attitude, EVENTS, FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, HEADLINES and whatever
Tags: balloons, colorful, colors, Filipino, Hot air Balloon Fiesta, hot air balloons, Life, manila, Pampanga, Philippines, tourism, vacation

We’re still on HIGH with our experience last Saturday at the 14th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta which I also blogged here recently complete with our own photos taken at the site itself. It was really awesome to see those amazingly beautiful balloons so close being blown one by one by the wind in the clear blue skies of Pampanga on a Valentine’s day no-less. Our fascination lead us ( I, Tina & even Gabby) to surf for these photos from www and found ourselves going loco after these colorful uniquely shaped hot air balloons… looking at these pictures taken abroad is never different with eating your favorite flavor of ice cream…. see if you can resist the child in you…

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Feb

FONTANA!

By docgelo Leave a Comment

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, FOOD & MORE FOOD! and TRAVEL
Tags: Clark Freeport, doughnuts, Filipino, Fontana, food, golf course, krispy kreme, krispy kreme doughnuts, leisure park, Luzon, manila, NLEX, North Luzon, Pampanga, Philippines, Pinoy, recreation, tourism, tourist spots, vacation, vacation place, water park

It was good that everyone in our family was off from work last Friday, 13Feb., so we all geared up for another worry-free weekend escapade. We were just at the Island Cove a week prior to our Fontana trip and as early as now, my mom is planning again to spend our Sunday next week out of town for another family gateaway. These are indeed a whole lot of blessings!

Around 9 in the morning last Friday, I bought Krispy Kreme doughnuts in a limited edition tin can for Tina. She liked it so much, the doughnuts ofcourse and the tin can for she is a collector of those types; even took a photo before she shared it with our family.

I & my wife Tina with our son Gabby were fetched by our whole family in a van to go to Clark Freeport, Pampanga and have an overnight stay at a villa in Fontana Leisure Parks & Casino. It was my first time in Fontana so I get extra excited to explore it and experience the fun of being with them again. My parents had been there already but that was almost a decade ago so they decided to go back and bring us there primarily to attend the 14th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta held annually (thanks to Capt. Joy Roa, organizer, host of a travel show Asian Air Safari at ANC which Tina & I like watching) usually every 2nd week of February so it falls on Valentine’s day. What a way to celebrate the day of hearts with everything that flies! (see my earlier blog about Hot Air Balloon Fiesta).

We joined our family at around 11AM, hit North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and had quick lunch at our kids’ favorite fastfood : Jollibee. After munching on some chickenjoy & burgers, we headed straight to Fontana. Fontana is a 300 hectare leisure park located 80 km north of Manila. It’s a leisure park with villas where guests/members can enjoy amenities of homes; it also has a golf course, a water park, a casino and a lot more. We arrived at the reception area at around 2PM in time for the check-in sched. We were given villa # 4901 about 2 blocks from the main gate.

Gabby at the reception hall…

With his cousins : Kelly & KC…

Each villas in Fontana Leisure Park consists of 3 bedrooms with twin beds, 3 toilets & shower rooms, a comfortable living room with cable-ready TV, kitchen with fridge, sink with hot & cold water, and a dining area. It was comfortable enough, just like home away from home… Here’s a peak at our villa and its amenities…

After we checked in at our villa, we decided to have an early dinner and as we went out of our rooms, we
spotted a karitela a.k.a kalesa (horse-driven carriage) with white horse…my brother who’s actually a private aviator didn’t hide his excitement riding it and posing for the cam…

We hopped to our van and asked our driver to look for a chapel or a church first before we eat dinner for us to make 3 wishes.. We found Our Lady of Remedies Chapel near Fontana; were impressed with the serenity of the area and reminded me of churches’ structures abroad. (Clarkfield was a former US Air force base)

After seeing colorful hot air balloons took their flights in the clear Pampanga skies, we trooped to Fontana Water Park…

Fountains at the water factory inside water park…

The fontana water park WAVE POOL…

The blogger striking a pose for whatever…

Till our next trip!

Feb

TASTING the WORLD @ CIRCLES!

By docgelo 12 Comments

My wife, Tina prefers dining somewhere rather than receiving flowers or anything mushy from her ex-boyfriend, ehem, that’s me, her husband for five years now We don’t usually go out on a date during Valentine’s ever since, not only because she dislikes the part, but I, too don’t give in to cupid’s requests for it’s just too traffic everywhere when it’s hearts’ day.

But this year, we decided to celebrate it a couple of days earlier; not with flowers, neither a movie-date but with most interesting thing that we do as a couple, and that is enjoying good food and savoring best dining experience. It need not to be expensive, but for the ocassion, I went out my way to plan ahead for the budget was quite steep compared to our usual eat-outs.

We went to CIRCLES EVENTS CAFE in Makati Shangri-la with our four-year-old son, Gabby. I must say, I surrendered to the fact that CIRCLES offers one of the best, if not the BEST open-kitchen-hotel-buffets here in Manila. It’s comparable to buffets in hotels abroad. I remember the buffets in hotels in Vegas that I had with my family several years back. Circles buffet is similar to those, or perhaps even better. One can truly TASTE THE WORLD at CIRCLES for its varied international cuisines. There were Asian- Chinese, Japanese, Filipino stretch, there’s also Mediterranean food section, American and ofcourse the sweetest section is left for the gustatory cravings.

The price of PhP 1,639.40 net per pax is a bit expensive, but it’s reasonable in Circles! I’m not a culinary or a food expert, but I did appreciate how a dish in every stations at Circles buffet had been prepared with so much effort to stimulate not only the palate but the eyes as well.

I ran out of superlatives to describe how delicious the buffet in Circles is. It’s simply superb! Highly recommended! I’m just so glad that Tina & Gabby liked it too.

Here are the photos of our gluttonous romantic early valentine’s date that we enjoyed to the fullest and we can’t resist but to plan for our next visit…c”,)

The lobby of Makati Shangri-la Hotel…

My son Gabby, who at the age of four, dreams of becoming a chef, as he sometimes watches Iron Chef on cable, now begins his exposure to the art of cooking and sublime dining…

The signage of SINFULLY CIRCLES bakeshop & patisserie at the entrance of CIRCLE EVENT CAFE…

Now, the food stations. Beginning with CHINESE CUISINE… dimsum, dumplings steamed or fried, cooked to perfection! Simply divine…

JAPANESE section offers freshly prepared seafoods – from steamed lobster & tiger prawns, seasoned huge mussels, oysters to maki, sushi, sashimi and other jap rolls…appetizingly delicious!

the MEDITERRANEAN food section…

Care for some CHICKEN SHAWARMA? Freshly made by the Persian chef as you make your request…

A portion of CIRCLES EVENT CAFE’s CARVING STATION…tender every bite…

The most attractive section of the buffet… Make sure there’s still a gastric room for most of these treats…SWEETEST TO NONE!

Don’t they look heavenly? CAKES were refilled swiftly by efficient and friendly staff…

CHOCOLATE FONDUE…

Now, these were our plates…

Tomato soup : creamy!

My first plate : fresh cold salad, bread and butter…

My chinese-asian platter : steamed sea bass, fried chicken dumpling, vegetable/kuchay dumpling, ebi tempura, pork siomai …

Tina’s Asian plate : tiger prawns and lobster, dumplings and Japanese rolls…

my seafood and jap preference… i so like the plate! The mussels are to die-for! I just can’t explain its herb-seasoned taste, simply superb!

my attempt to try Mediterranean dishes : chicken shawarma, mutter paneer, naan, roti chanai, and there was also chicken kadai… spicy curries galore!

while Tina opted to mix Persian shawarma and American beef steak and veggies…

Now, let me show you the best part of our dinner : DESSERTS!

This was my first platter of sweetest things from Circles.
Makes me salivate and gives me reason to forget hassles,worries,whathaveyou…sigh ^_^

Tina’s desserts…

We tried to be subtle for the camera first, resisting the immediate sweet temptations for few seconds…

Can’t get enough of those sweets…

while Gabby was content with those sweet treats…

Before asking for the bill, we requested a waiter to take a shot for us…

We didn’t get to taste pizza, pasta, and other dishes for we were full already. It will give us reason to go back and experience again the joy of dining at Circles Event Cafe…
It was one of those few shared moments when eating was never a necessity but a pleasure!

What made our Valentine’s this year extra-special was the fact that we are complete and happy.

I SO LOVE YOU ITY & GABBY !!!

Feb

OUR ISLAND COVE ADVENTURE

By docgelo 8 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, FOOD & MORE FOOD! and TRAVEL
Tags: animals, bakasyon, bakasyonista, breakfast, buffet, buffet breakfast, butterfly, Cavite, Digman, Digman halo-halo, Eastwood, Eastwood City, family, family blog, family bonding, farm, Filipino, Filipinos, food, food blog, foodie, Gilbert Remulla, good food, halo-halo, Island Cove, Island Cove Hotel & Leisure Park, Kawit, leisure, leisure park, Life, manila, merienda, monkey, nature, ostrich. ostrich egg, parks, Philippines, Pinoy, recreation, recreation facilities, relax, relaxation, resort, resort in the philippines, resorts in asia, sam milby, sandosenang halo, siopao, Something Fishy, summer, summer adventure, summer escapades, summer trip, swimming pool, tigers, tourism, TRAVEL, travel blog, traveling, travelling, vacation, vacation place, zoo

It’s natural for mothers to constantly make efforts for family bonding. And my mom is no exception. She usually schedules trips, eat-outs or anything for us to do or to go somewhere and enjoy. On the same month of last year, she booked a hotel accomodation for 3 days and scheduled a trip to Baguio for us to experience Panagbenga Flower festival. This year, we agreed to go to Island Cove Hotel & Leisure Park in Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite; a small town of about an hour drive from Manila (less the traffic). My parents went there 2 weeks ago to celebrate the anniversary of their elopement. We saw their photos taken from their overnight stay and did not expect that our whole family will be there 2 weeks after.

Last Saturday, February 07, we were fetched before 5AM to catch the buffet breakfast at Something Fishy at Eastwood City, Libis, Quezon City. The buffet breakfast is offered from 12MN to 10AM daily at PhP 114 pax exclusive of drinks; reasonable price for a wide variety of breakfast yummies. It’s a favorite not only of families but most employees usually call center agents around the area. Something fishy’s buffet breakfast includes arroz caldo, mami, sausages, mini pancakes, beef tapa, boiled and fried rice, fried scrambled eggs, palabok (local pasta with rice-based sauce), pancit canton (chinese noodle), tinapang bangus (smoked dried milkfish), adobong manok, kakanin (rice cakes) like bibingka, biko or some call it sinok-mani, and maja and others.

As we were escorted by the staff to our reserved seats for 11 adults and 4 kids, my brother’s fiancee’s eyes quickly spotted Sam Milby as he dines with his friends. And before he went out of the resto, my mom, as candid as always did not miss the chance and asked for a souvenir shot from Sam with my son Gabby and niece Kelly who are frequent viewers of his teleseryes. One of Sam’s friends was nice to volunteer to take the picture for them.

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After Eastwood City we headed straight to Kawit, Cavite where Island Cove is located. It’s a leisure park stretched in a 36-hectare island with swimming pools, animal land that includes an aviary, a butterfly house, a monkey & aligator farm, recreational facilities for badminton, volleyball, basketball, tennis, billiards and even a gym. It also has function rooms, bars where concerts are held, a spa, playground for kids, and a 96-room hotel other than the 17 cottages where one can relax. I also found out recently from a broadsheet article that the managing director of this tourism spot is the TV celebrity & former Congressman Gilbert Remulla. No wonder Island Cove is apparently well maintained to be a place where one can commune with nature.

I was so impressed with the cleanliness & availability of facilities; never expect to find electric sockets even in cottages & huts to plug in mobile phones, laptops and other electronic gadgets. Island Cove is also a wi-fi area so I got to check my e-mails and did some updates on my social networks. My favorite part of Island Cove is the Fishing Village where we had our lunch in a hut on stilts, enjoyed the sea breeze, while being serenaded by roving local string band and singers. Those dining and resting areas on huts on stilts are the best part of Island Cove where one can feast on Filipino food and get to breathe fresh air and think of nothing but enjoy nature. It’s really a relaxing sanctuary. I really appreciate that I had a chance to forget my worries at least for a day when we were there. You have to experience it, or at least, enjoy first my photos here…

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I tried feeding the ostrich myself with leaves I found on the ground…just for a photo-op of a kid-at-heart

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Ostrich remains to be the biggest flightless bird and probably with the biggest avian egg as well…

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My 4-year-old son Gabby & his 7-year-old cousin KC : who’s taller err, longer than crocs & ostrich ?

And here’s the ultimate gateway to relaxing dining experience : the entrance to the Fishing Village…

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That’s our hut #20 on stilts ….

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What’s a Fishing Village without trying to catch something to grill or fry; but luck was not on our side…

Gabby with his Lolo Ben (my dad) did some fishing…

Three generations of fishermen-wannabe…

Staff of Fishing Village doing the fish bait made from flour & water as a substitute to an actual fish feeds…

Another sight to behold : Fishing Village’s menu…

Here’s a peek at what we had for a family feast…

Post-prandial smiles… perfect kodak moments (LOL !)

My son, nephew and nieces enjoyed the swimming pools with clean and impressive facilities of Oceania Water Park within Island Cove. Swimming or not, one has to pay the entrance fee of PHP250 which includes the entrance to animal land and aviary etc.

Proof that amenities & facilities are available in Island Cove…

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We left Island Cove at around 4PM and decided to take merienda at Digman in Bacoor, Cavite on the way back to Manila. Digman Halo-halo with sandosenang halo originated in Cavite before they branched out to SM malls nationwide.

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