Why should we walk according to Pura Santillan-Castrence?

      Pura Santillan-Castrence begins the essay with a casual tone and continues with a descriptive manner of enumerating the unmatched benefits of walking. The words used all throughout were infallible in evoking a visual image in a reader’s mind and thus, adding to the beauty of a gradual development of scenes. At first glance, her work exemplifies a mundane composition exclusively suited for health-conscious readers. However, an insightful ending thrashes initial judgments as the author proves the relevance of a simple introduction to achieve her purpose in writing the piece.

      “Shall We Walk?” brilliantly incorporated purposeful essence into an extremely ordinary action—walking. From its advantages to man’s health, to the different kinds of people one sees, to the lessons you may learn along the way and finally, the discovery of oneself. All of these are possible when one uses his feet to travel to his destination. I distinctly appreciated the essay’s realistic approach. Likewise, I was awed by the realization that my surrounding is an instrument which communicates life truths and lessons that can strengthen one’s character. The surrounding that most people take for granted is, after all, a silent teacher that one will recognize only if he cares to open his eyes and see beyond what is readily presented on the surface. It is also this surrounding that serves as a serene place for stressed people, like me, to unwind and to think clearly. On top of all of these, the essay added meaning to an action I perform only because it is necessary. It left a lasting impact as it conveyed that walking is tantamount to learning and discovering, not only my environment and society, but more importantly, my individuality.

      I was instantly attached to this essay, most especially because it paved the way for me to see a bigger truth about life. It reminded me that every part of man’s journey here on earth is a learning experience and one has to immerse himself with his surrounding in order to fully develop his character. From now on, I’ll be looking forward to walking the streets of Dumaguete with utter excitement. Because the world reveals itself to those who do so, I just can’t wait to travel once again by foot.

Can love be measured?

Yes , love can be measured. Love is an emotion. It can't be seen or touched, and it is experienced differently by everyone, therefore it is difficult to measure.

Some think love can be measured by the amount of butterflies in their tummy. Others think love can be measured in bunches of flowers, or by using the words "for ever". But love can only truly be measured by actions. It can be a small thing, such as peeling an orange for a person you love because you know they don't like doing it. Or it can be something bigger, where you stand up for someone and risk ridicule yourself.

Likewise, you can measure how much someone loves you by how they speak to you and how they treat you. If they notice you're upset when no one else does, or if they remember that your favourite ice‑cream flavour is strawberry, but that you don't like strawberry syrup, the chances are that they love you. Love and kindness go hand in hand.

How do you know you are loved?

The following are signs that YOU ARE LOVED :

They think about you when you’re not around

They’ll take care of you when you’re sick.They see a billboard that reminds them of you and they text you. They remember you said you needed dish soap and they bring you some because they were running errands. They think about places you guys could go to dinner tonight and then invite you.

And tell you you’re beautiful even when you look mucus-y and nasty.

They listen to you. Really listen.

And respond with thoughtful, relevant insights.

 They get into your interests and want to share their own with you.

They hate comic books but they’ll come with you to Forbidden Planet. They don’t get sports, but they root for the Giants with you. They’re psyched to show you their stamp collection or take you to an antique show.

They plan for the future.

Whether it’s a trip or a concert — placing you in their future means they see a future with you.

Your thoughts and opinions are treated with respect.

They never push their views on you or laugh at/dismiss yours, even if they’re wildly different. They should love you for your unique brain.

They are eager to help you, and gracious about accepting your help.

If they love you, they want to make your life easier. And if they love you, they should be able to accept help from someone who loves them back.

They put your needs above their own.

Not in an unhealthy way, but in a selfless way. (Hopefully, you’re both doing this and it even outs.)

You know you can trust them.

You feel safe, heard and secure. Similarly…

You never want to break the truth you’ve earned from them.

If someone loves you, they’ve been vulnerable with you. Don’t abuse that.

They support you.

They come to your art show. They encourage you to practice with your band. They don’t get jealous or upset when you have to work late. They genuinely want you to succeed.

You share a sense of humor.

They think you’re funny. You think they’re funny. That’s true love.

They give you freedom to grow.

You don’t feel stifled, stuck or in a rut.

You are loyal to each other.

You feel like they are on your team. You’re a partnership. You’re a twosome. You’re in this together.

They don’t put you down.

Negging might be part of The Game handbook, but it’s no good in a relationship. They shouldn’t be putting you down. They should be building you up. If they’re doing anything else, they’re insecure and can’t truly love you.

They don’t hide anything from you.

Trust, communication and honesty become more important than anything else. It’s humbling and scary, but if you’re truly loved, it’ll come naturally.

You are comfortable being silent or away from each other.

Someone who needs to keep talking or needs to cling to you in social situations might seem like they love you, but they actually just need you. It’s not the same, and it’s not as good. If they love you, you will both be secure in comfortable silence, and have the ability to be apart — but still catch each other’s eyes across the room and just…know.

They don’t let you get away with bad habits.

They want you to be your best you and they won’t take you being depressive or hating on yourself. They want you to love yourself, as much as they love you.

The poem: Like the Molave

LIKE THE MOLAVE 

by Rafael Zulueta da Costa

Not yet, Rizal, not yet. Sleep not in peace:
There are a thousand waters to be spanned;
There are a thousand mountains to be crossed;
There are a thousand crosses to be borne.
Our shoulders are not strong; our sinews are
Grown flaccid with dependence, smug with ease
Under another’s wing. Rest not in peace;
Not yet, Rizal, not yet. The land has need
Of young blood-and, what younger than your own,
Forever spilled in the great name of freedom,
Forever oblate on the altar of
The free? Not you alone, Rizal. O souls
And spirits of the martyred brave, arise!
Arise and scour the land! Shed once again
Your willing blood! Infuse the vibrant red
Into our thin anemic veins; until
We pick up your Promethean tools and, strong,
Out of the depth less matrix of your of your faith
In us, and on the silent cliffs of freedom,
We carve for all time your marmoreal dream!
Until our people, seeing, are become
Like the molave, firm, resilent, staunch,
Rising on the hillside, unafraid,
Strong in its own fiber, yes, like the molave!

     The main interpretation of the Filipino poem Like The Molave is one regarding how we, the people of the Philippines must work to make the nation stronger. The poem states that a region of the Philippines - Rizal - cannot yet rest, as there is still much work to be done to make the area successful. 

    At the beginning of the poem, the poet outlines how the Philippines is dependent on other nations, and must work towards becoming independent in the future in order to support its citizens. Like The Molave also highlights the importance of the younger generation, and how they must fight for their country and improve the Filipino way of living. The poet believes this will grant the nation freedom. 

     Like The Molave also talks about heroes and how they inspire regular Filipinos to be great themselves and join them on the quest to make the Philippines a more prosperous place. The poem states that whilst many Filipinos are achieving great things for their country, there is still much more to be done and more residents must contribute to the efforts. In short, Like The Molave is about inspiring the Filipino nation to improve their country and make it self-sufficient.

Why I Love my Philippines

      There are many landmarks in Philippines, one of the seven ancient wonders in the world is in the Philippines. Best tourist spot destinations are here being a tropical country and rich in natural resources.Philippines excels in the beauty in normal scenery such as plain beaches, mountains and other awesome landscapes. The main reason why I love my Philippines is because there are thousands of islands to satisfy my cravings. 

Calaguas Islands, Vinzons, Camarines Norte   

   

     Long stretches of white sand, and waters so clear and blue that they look Photoshopped — that’s Calaguas. With powdery fine sand like Boracay’s minus the crowds, it is the “kind of private paradise you’ll want to keep all to yourself,” as travel blogger and Bicol local Amer Amor found out. He even claims the sand there is finer than Boracay’s, one reason why Calaguas made it on top of his list.

     This beach is so postcard-perfect that, as Amer points out, “It’s that one destination that will have everybody asking, ‘Where on earth did you take that picture?’”

Twin Beaches Nacpan and Calitang, El Nido, Palawan

     Walk on this swath of sand and choose between two spectacular beaches on either side. Palawan has many white islands that describe the word “paradise,” but to travel blogger Josiah Sicad, who has been living there for over a year, the best he has seen so far is El Nido’s twin beaches Nacpan and Calitang, two perfect beaches dramatically separated by a swath of white sand dotted with greenery. The sand gently slopes downward to the twin beaches, making the waters perfect for swimming.

Palaui Island, Sta. Ana, Cagayan

     WORTH THE TREK. This view is the reward of those who braved the roads to Palaui. 

     Palaui is one of the more challenging beaches to get to, with over 12 hours of land travel (but you can fly to Tuguegarao to cover part of the trip), a short boat ride, and a two-hour trek. The view overlooking the beach, though, is jaw-dropping, and the beach is as quiet and pristine as a beach could get. Another way to enjoy the stunning landscape is by going up Cape Engaño lighthouse for the sunrise.

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

    PACKAGE DEAL. Expect not only pristine beaches but also warm smiles at Alibijaban Island. Photos by Dong Ho

    Quezon’s white and golden beaches are mostly off the tourist radar, but engineer and beachcomber Dong Ho, who has been visiting and exploring relatively unknown islands he only found through GPS, was quick to point out his favorite: Alibijaban Island.

    Aside from the island’s clear waters, white sand, and scores of mangroves, Dong also found that the island has a warm and welcoming community. Upon his arrival, children smiled at him and later on, the barangay captain talked with him and served him a seafood meal fresh from the day’s catch.

    “I realized that beyond beautiful island beaches, the people's hospitality is its most priceless gem,” Dong reveals.

Burot Beach, Calatagan, Batangas

    NEARBY PARADISE. For an unspoiled beach, Burot is quite close to Metro Manila. 

    This is probably one of the closest white, unspoiled beaches to Manila, with travel time around 3 to 4 hours by bus or by car. Perfect for a quick getaway, Burot Beach’s “silence and comfort are next to none,” as travel blogger Missy Penaverde discovered. The beach also promises a spectacular sunset.

    She warns, though, that the beach’s pristine condition might change in the future, as SM’s group of companies has bought it. “Do not wait,” she implores. “Now is the time to see this.”

Cibang Cove, Calayan, Babuyan Channel

      FAR-FLUNG PARADISE. Cibang Cove’s calm waters, pristine beach and remote location makes it ideal for those who want the beach to themselves. Photo by Estan Cabigas

      Photographer and blogger Estan Cabigas calls his experience here a “glimpse of heaven.” Should you see his photos of Cibang Cove, you will understand what he means. Cibang’s quiet turquoise waters and creamy white sand are encircled by gray-green cliffs and mountains.

    “The place is just so marvelous,” Estan exclaims. "Think of Anawangin and Nagsasa Coves in Zambales but better.”

     Like Palaui, the trip to Calayan takes more than 12 hours, with another land trip from Aparri or Claveria. From there, Cibang Cove can be reached by a 15-minute boat ride or a one-hour trek. As this beach is remote as remote can get and picturesque, Estan could not help feel as though he was “stranded in some unknown but beautiful island paradise.” But, like the case with Burot Beach, though, Cibang’s unspoiled state may not last. Estan reveals that there are plans to build facilities on the beach as well as construct a road getting there.

Port Barton, Palawan

      Although not as famous as neighbors El Nido and Puerto Princesa, San Vicente is nothing short of stellar. This relatively low profile is what makes this peaceful town appealing to some travelers. Its forests are undisturbed and shores almost untouched. It is perhaps the reason Port Barton, one of its 10 barangays, is the top choice by Edgar Alan.

      “Supple sands hugged by jungle-clad mountains, turquoise waters and lovely coral gardens where turtles and reef fish cruise, framed by sapphire skies and honey-colored sunsets,” recalls EAZY. “An idyllic beach retreat could not get any better than this!”

Bantayan Island, Cebu

      The blade-shaped province of Cebu is rich in historical sites and grand churches but it is also teeming with natural resources. Its coasts and outlying islands cradle pockets of white sand. Bantayan Island, off its northern tip, is dumped with some of the finest! Brenna puts this tropical paradise on the top of her list.

       Less crowded and less busy than the other famous island destinations in the country, Bantayan Island is perfect for those who chase beaches for a time of relaxation and reflection.

Anguib Beach, Cagayan

     “Forget Boracay, dear beach bummers,” Robbie opens his piece about Anguib Beach. “If you are after pristine turquoise waters and powdery white sand with the total seclusion that the former doesn’t have, then you can find the same paradise in the northernmost tip of mainland Luzon.”

         It looks like rough roads lead to the best beaches. Anguib Beach may be in Luzon but it is on the far end of it, around 12 hours away if you’re taking the bus from Manila. But Anguib’s remoteness is what makes it extra special. The usual delights are there: fine sand and clear water but its real charm is its very quiet atmosphere and the feeling that you own every bit of it.

Bolobadiangan Island, Iloilo

        Like with Anguib, it looks like seclusion is what also made Ron fall in love with Bolobadiangan Island. This off-the-beaten-track destination in Concepcion, Iloilo makes an ideal setting for Survivor make-believe. “The sand is not as fine as boracay, sunset is not as majestic as Manila Bay,” Ron explains, “but the rustic feel, the isolation and the solemnity of the setting made the trip so intimate.”

      Hmmm… Intimate! Now you’re paying attention. “We rented the whole sandbar, prepared meals by ourselves, and slept on a hammock,” he adds. Not what you’re thinking, apparently.

Naked Island, Surigao del Sur

      Speaking of intimacy. Time to get naked. “In the vastness of the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Lianga Bay in Surigao del Sur is an island incomparable to its neighbors in Britania Group,” Harry Balais writes about this nude stunner. “Naked Island is made up of a long white sand bar that completely gets lost in the horizon during neap high tide.”

Buluan Island, Zamboanga Sibugay

       “Buluan Island, a gem of a piece of land off Barangay Buluan in Zamboanga Sibugay’s municipal capital of Ipil is beautiful. And that is even an understatement.” That’s what Estan has to say about this well-kept secret. “The island is tear drop shaped as seen from above with a tadpole like profile. The apex fringed with a white sandy beach and gradually rising up to the top of the hill. On a beautiful morning, its ghost like when seen from Ipil’s port, about 20 minutes by speedboat.”

Subic Beach, Sorsogon

       Of the kilometers of shorelines he has seen, Owen is quite convinced that Subic Beach is his top pick. Fringing an edge of Calintaan Island in Matnog, Sorsogon, Subic Beach looks like your ordinary PH beach at first glance. “White coral sand, swaying palms, and clear waters. It’s so beautiful I could feel the cliches against my bare feet as I walked the length of the beach half-looking for algae or any of that shiz that usually turns off beach-goers. None.”

Diniwid Beach, Boracay, Aklan

      And you thought this list would end without a mention of Boracay. Not gonna happen.

     Boracay is often dubbed the best beach in the Philippines, and in Asia according to the latest TripAdvisor survey. While many are complaining about the island being too commercialized, Boracay still has a few less chaotic nooks. Diniwid Beach is one of them.

     Nikka Corsino has been living here for a month now. “It is the the longest we’ve had to stay in any single beach destination,” she shares. “I love its turquoise waters, jagged rock formations, and overall quiet. It is, for me, the best place to see the sunset in Boracay.”

                             

Biri Island, Northern Samar

      We all have a picture of the perfect beach paradise — azure water, gentle waves, white sand. Most of the country’s most popular beaches have all three. The northern coast of Biri Island is not one of them.

       The waves here don’t roll; they ravage. “Every punching wave is a stroke of art and every gusty storm is a painful dash of necessary sacrifice — the torture in art, the beauty in chaos,” I described it on The Poor Traveler blog. The result: six staggering rock formations, masterfully sculpted by nature, that intimidate not just with their immensity but, more importantly, their splendor.

     Biri Island is one of the 18 islands of the Balicuatro Group in Northern Samar. “These rock formations referee the fierce waters of San Bernardino Strait and the Pacific Ocean. But for those who wish to swim, there are also natural pools nestled by the shore that are more friendly to swimmers! Biri Island is also a fantastic diving destination so pack your gears!”

Matukad Island

      While Biri Island is my personal choice, PhilippineBeaches.org’s co-founder Vins Carlos sticks to the classic ivory-laced, sapphire-soaked shores! His pick — Matukad Island in Caramoan. But like Biri, it is specked with breathtaking rock formations. “In between these giant rocks are patches of powdery white sand that is sure to delight beach lovers. The island also harbors a small hidden lake.”

Secret Beach, Palawan

     El Nido has many secrets. One of them — the Secret Beach, a small half-dipped pocket of white sand that is enveloped by the giant karst cliffs of Matinloc Island. Accessible only through a narrow crevice, it requires visitors to swim one at a time. Challenge, huh? But that’s part of its charm if you ask Enrico Dee of Byahilo.

   “I put on my mask and snorkel and voila! The view under my feet is indescribable. I got overwhelmed in everything that I saw. I then started to swim slowly towards the opening,” he recalls. “I was surrounded by towering limestone rocks, while I was just lying on a fine white sandy beach.”

      Rumor has it that this is the actual place that inspired author Alex Garland to write his novel The Beach when he stayed in El Nido.

Quiminatin Island, Palawan

“For me, this is the best beach in the Philippines,” Benj Espina makes it clear in his post about this almost unheard of paradise tucked in the middle of the Cuyo Islands. Its remoteness has kept the island’s low profile, but divers en route to Tubbataha Reef who make a stopover here are treated to a rare opportunity to get to know this exquisite beauty.

“It was strikingly beautiful,” Benj adds. “It was great to find a seemingly untouched island out in the Sulu Sea free from human settlements and the development.

“The Cuyo Islands are in the middle of the Sulu Sea. It is relatively far from a major city – Manila is around 24 hours away by boat and the nearest airport that has commercial flights are in Panay Island.”

Kalanggaman Island, Leyte

If you love sandbars, you will fall head over heels for Kalanggaman Island. This barely touched paradise has enjoyed a lot of attention in recent years as more and more beach-chasers discover its postcard-perfect allure. Sinjin Pineda can’t help but agree. “With talcum white sand bars extending to both sides, Kalanggaman Island is a paradise. Its pristine waters and almost lake-like placidness make it perfect for swimming, kayaking and snorkeling.” The other side of the island has stronger waves and more sea-like attitude.

And the sandbars! Both ends of this long island are fringed with a sandbar reaching out to the blues. Warning, though: some parts slope so steeply.

Malamawi Island, Basilan

How many beaches in the Philippines are called “White Beach”? We don’t know. But what this woman is sure of is, Malamawi Island’s White Beach is the best of them all. Gay Mitra-Emami has nothing but praises for this humble destination. ” When we docked Malamawi’s makeshift port, we hired motorcycles to get to the beach. I was surprised how beautiful their white beach is,” she shares. “I guess I was captivated by its charm of isolation.”

Puraran Beach, Catanduanes 

Facing the mighty and unforgiving Pacific, Puraran Beach is a topnotch surfing site. Located in the town of Baras, Catanduanes, the options to get here by air is quite limited. But those who go out of their mainstream way to get here are greeted with a delightful and highly exhilarating mini-slaps from the ocean.

“It is home to the so-called majestic waves,” Mervz notes. “Stunning landscape of golden sand beach, clean and clear waters, marvelous rock formations, and views of mountains and the bay welcomed us. It’s quite hot during that time as the sun rose higher but the strong wind blowing from the ocean kept us cool.” 

Dahican Beach, Davao Oriental

From surfing in Catanduanes to skimboarding in Davao Oriental! This seven-kilometer cove is the sparkling gem of Mati, Davao Oriental. Popular among the wave-riding crowd, it is being groomed as the skimboarding capital. “Time was like a blur as if moments are passing by gracefully, with an after-stroke from a master painter,” Marky describes how it feels to stand at Dahican Beach. “From the blue skies to the crystal clear waters, even to the movements of the skimboarders who are otherwise known as the Amihan Boys, you could sense a feeling of calm.”

Dahican means “to come in from the sea.” The name was given to this beach for the pawikan, Hawksbills and Olive Ridleys, that emerge from the sea and climb up to the shore to lay eggs. If you’re Dahican-bound, make sure to not disturb these gentle creatures when you’re there.

Malapascua Island, Cebu

Malapascua Island is most famous for the thresher sharks that roam its waters. Divers from around the world are drawn to these sharks and other marine creatures that make up the rich biodiversity of the island. But Malapascua has something for beach bums, too! As Edcel witnessed it firsthand, this small piece of heaven north of Cebu stuns visitors with pearly grains and multi-colored sunsets. Edcel was so mesmerized, he wrote the island a letter.

“I swam in your waters and jumped from your cliff. I dove into the deep and cruised along your shores. You shared so many faces in different times of the day. However, only during the later part did you show your real colors.

“I stepped out and the light revealed another shade. Orange and plum; my eyes were at ease despite the lack of rest. I lay on the sand and witnessed how you painted the sky and filled it with enough hue to keep my mind at peace. The sea breeze and the calm waves served as a sweet lullaby. It was almost perfect.”

Salagdoong Beach, Siquijor

For some people, Siquijor is almost synonymous to witchcraft and mysticism. But anyone who has been to the Island of Fire will tell you, if there’s something this place should be known for — its sheer, natural beauty. Beaches, for example, are spectacular in Siquijor. Just ask Renz. His favorite: Salagdoong Beach.

Cradled in the town of Maria, it is managed by the Provincial Tourism Office. “Despite being a public beach,” Renz shares, “it is still clean and well-maintained. Kudos to the local government of Siquijor!

“Sun rays torridly kissed our skin as we explored the public beach. Although in my opinion, the beach would look more quaint if it remained as it is. But still, the beauty of Salagdoong Beach is still there – well maintained and the locals are disciplined as well.”

My Future

     A person needs to achieve certain goals in one's life before you can call them successful. Success is to achieve goals, you have set. I have set certain goals I would like to achieve in my lifetime. Some of these goals are personal while others are professional.My personal goals would be first to have expensive cars, travel to places that no one knows my name, to skydive, to have a collection of shoes and to eat foods that I wanted to eat especially cakes.My professional goals in life are to find a good job that makes me happy, get a good education, find a job that makes enough money for me to support my family, and help people.

     It is very important for me to receive a good education. Most job fields require a descent education. If I don't have an education I would not be able to function properly at the work place and I would not understand what to do. To maintain a good job that will make good money will require me to go thorough schooling or training and maybe even both. Education is the first and foremost way to become successful, because the job I will choose will need me go to school and maybe even beyond college.

    My happiness in what I do is also a goal for me I my life. There is no way someone can become successful if they are not happy with what they are doing. If their job is going to make them miserable, they will never show 100% in their work and they will slake off. If someone did this they would probably get fired or their pay would not be very high. The job I want will be interesting to me. I will need that I love my job and I love what I am doing. I need to be putting 100% into my work.

    Another professional goal of mine is for me to be making good money in my work. I am not saying that I need to be making millions but I want enough so I can help support my family. I cannot expect to have a family I can't afford. My job will help me buy a home, pay health insurance, and other things I need for my family. My main goal in the money is to keep, my family happy. I want them to have enough but not too much. I want them to have the necessities.

The Story of My Life

My Accountancy Journey 

     When my life was quickly falling out of my hands and reality wasn't within reach, I felt helpless. I needed to find a way out somehow, someone or something to influence me in a better way by helping me out of the major hole I had dug myself into.

     It all began when I graduated from high school and went to college. I don't know what course to take. Since elementary I wanted to be a Lawyer but when I'm in my 4th year in high school I changed my mind. Instead I took up Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. I was having difficulties adjusting during my freshman year in College. Honestly speaking, I even cried for a week because I miss my family so much. And in class our teacher give us exams I've never encountered in my high school days. I'm not used to studying a lot of chapters just for one night. I was like, " Ma'am , are you serious?" . But instead of whining like a baby I did my part as a student I studied but there are times that I can't understand the topics being discuss . I was so lost.

     And when middle term exams are done I was so devastated when I knew that I didn't pass the examination in my major subject. I was worried sick if I have a chance to pass my major subject at the end of the semester. I told my mother about it and she encouraged me to strive more, study hard and give more effort about my studies. I did my best but after our final exams I think my best wasn't good enough. I failed. For me this is one of the most crucial times in my life being a student. I don't know what to do.I can't think clearly and I can't decide if I will continue in this course or shift to other courses. 

    I prayed , really , I prayed hard asking God for guidance in my decisions. I was lighten up when my mother called and said "if you really want to be a CPA continue. That is just a test for you by God." So , I've made my decision knowing in myself that I wanted to be a CPA someday and make my parents proud, I continued and retake the subject that I failed. 

   Now I will say God is so good. He made a way for me to be in the right path. I am thankful for that. Now I am in my 3rd year in college and praise God because of his guidance I didn't failed again any subjects as of now. :)

My expectation for the new President of the Philippines

          

    As the Philippines prepares for the 2016 national election, it is important for Filipinos to choose their leader for the next six years. Their choice could make or break the progressive streak that the incumbent administration has started.

    Whoever replaces President Benigno Aquino III in 2016 has to continue making good policy decisions.Filipinos have the responsibility to choose the best candidate. A fresh yardstick based on principles and moral should be the new norm for voting. The best person does not always win the elections, but we can only hope that the winning candidate will be the right President for the Filipino people.

    I have very high expectations of the next president of our country, maybe too high for him to accomplish in six years. First, I expect him to restore the credibility of the government and make it a government of, by and for the people. Second, I expect him to reduce, if not eradicate, corruption in the bureaucracy and use wisely the very meager resources of the government and channel every cent to the enlistment of the poor and the needy, by improving our educational system and making it more affordable to the poor. I also expect him to improve the country’s economy so that everyone has a roof under their heads, clothes over their back, a decent job to support his family, food in every plate, and medicine for the sick and the elderly. 

The Wonders of my Province

Zamboanga Del Norte's Wonders

The Sungkilaw Falls of Zamboanga del Norte

     Zamboanga del Norte is a land still considered mysterious as it contains many hidden wonders still awaiting discovery. One such wonder people from far and wide have sought to gaze upon is Sungkilaw Falls, which is located in the barangay of Diwan in Dipolog City, Zamboanga Del Norte. The spot is developed by the City Government with the help and support of the Subanen , a peace-loving native people dwelling in the vicinity.

    From quite an elevation, one can feel the sheer power of nature as white water cascades down against the side of a weathered rock formation and splashing with force upon the waiting pool below, with mist adding mystique to the view. A viewing deck nearby gives one a great vantage point to better appreciate the entirety of the falls. Some distance away is a path with stairs descending into the length of the falls. 

    At the base is a pool where the water collects before flowing off again. Here, visitors can bath in the clear, cold water from the many natural springs upstream. 

   Several structures are constructed in the area such as cottages and comfort rooms and on-going beautification in some parts of the falls for a convenient and relaxing stay for tourists. Trails are also prepared for comfortable walks under the dense forest.

   With this and more, Sungkilaw Falls should definitely be in anyone's itinerary when visiting the beautiful province of Zamboanga del Norte.

     

Dakak Park and Beach Resort

    Dakak Park and Beach Resort is the closes place to paradise one could ever experience, with it's beauty and serenity. Dakak started operation on 1988, was conveniently positioned in the southern part of the philippines and surrounded by mountains in its west. Situated at Taguilon, Dapitan City, Zamboanga Del Norte, Dakak tactfully eludes the typhoon belt, making it an ideal all-season destination for travelers. 

    Dakak is the first five-star resort in Mindanao with an "AAA" accreditation from the Department of Tourism, located along a private 750 meter white sand and beach. From the original 2 (two) cottages, it has expanded into 64 cottages with 128 fully-furnished rooms in native duplex type bungalows of bamboo and nipa leaves with capiz shell window panels; and three (3) Family Pavillion with 30 family rooms and one (1) Presidential Suite. 

     Aliguay

     Aliguay is an island in the Philippines, and a barangay of Dapitan City. The island is under the custody of the Philippine Navy and is an established marine sanctuary. The island is surrounded by white sand beaches and coral reefs. There are no water sources on the island. A few residents live on Aliguay Island, mostly selling fish to tourists.

Sicayab Beach 

    Skim boarding or skimming is what Sicayab Beach is known for. Nature has provided Sicayab with fine gray sand, perfect waves, and the relaxing view of the sea – all perfect for skimming.Skim board enthusiast not only in the province but also from the surrounding regions flock the beach especially during weekend to experience its sand and waves. This has also become the newest sport in the city.

    Aside from skim boarding, the beach also has a lot of things to boast of.

Long Stretch of Sand

   The beach is endowed with about seven kilometers of irresistible fine gray sand, providing more space for tourist to enjoy. You can lie down in the sand or take a leisurely walk around the beach barefoot.

Golden Sunset

    The beach has one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. The sun, looking like a huge disc of red, orange, and yellow going down to the horizon creates a perfect romantic mood for lovers.

Sicayab Cliff

     Just four kilometres away from the beach is the Sicayab Cliff. The constantly lapping of the waves and the sea breeze successfully sculpted these limestones forming into stunning and unlikely rock formations perfect for a back drop. If you’re in for a more adventure, conquer your fear of heights and climb the cliff.

     To reach Dipolog City from Manila or Cebu, you simply need to take the flight to the city or take the ferry from Cebu or Dumaguete to Palauan Port in Dapitan. From the city’s airport or wharf, you can hire a local transportation to reach Sicayab Beach.

Dapitan Bay 

   Dapitan Bay is located in Zamboanga del Norte and has a stretch of clean beach on the northern section of the poblacion, with sunsets more beautiful than the fabled ones at Manila Bay. 

   Dapitan Bay is perfectly safe for swimming because the water depth is gradual with no undertow.

Cogon Jungle Adventure

     It is a thickly forested area of around 300 hectares, which is ideal for mountaineering, hiking, and nature buffs. The pristine experience it offers of venturing into a truly unspoiled showcase of nature is not to be missed. The government-preserved site is located at Barangay Cogon, about 25 kilometers from Dipolog City proper.

     

    Barangay Daro

    It commands a breathtaking view of the Sulu Sea north and east of the city, stretching as far as the municipality of Sibutad in Zamboanga del Norte and Balingao in Misamis Occidental.

Olingan Beach

     A public beach that stretches for eight kilometers, its gray sand beach is a favorite of bathers, swimmers, and picknickers during weekends and holidays. It is located only 5 kilometers from downtown Dipolog.

Holy Rosary Cathedral

It was erected by the Spanish friars sometime in 1895, before Dipolog City became a municipality. Records show that the cathedral altar was designed by Dr. Jose Rizal, who was still serving the tenure of his Dapital exile in those years.

Rizal Shrine

      Philippine National Hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal spent his last four years in exile in Dapitan. His original estate here has been declared a national shrine and is being administered by the National Historical Institute. Hence, the city monicker, "Shrine City of the Philippines." By the year 2020, Dapitan is poised to become the Dr. Jose Rizal Heritage Center of the Philippines, owing to the wealth of Rizal memorabilia and memorable places associated with the hero.

Sinulog and Kinabayo

    (July 24-25). It is a two-day celebration of the annual patronal feast of St. James. The Sinulog is a dance procession while the Kinabayo is an exotic and colorful pageant re-enacting the Spanish-Moorish Wars, particularly, the Battle of Covadonga. During this battle, the Spanish forces under General Pelagio took their last stand against the Saracens. They were able to reverse the tide of the war with the miraculous apparition of St. James, the Apostle. The addition of local color and innovations make this annual revelry a popular attraction drawing crowds to the city.