#clean water project Palawan

[beingjellybeans]

Sun Life Philippines shines with top industry honors and community impact

Sun Life Philippines has recently achieved remarkable recognition across various fronts, underscoring its commitment to excellence and positive impact within the industry and the community. From topping industry rankings to receiving accolades for its HR practices and philanthropic efforts, Sun Life continues to set a high standard. Sun Life Tops MDRT Rankings In a notable achievement, Sun Life…

[gaelenathiellapitan]

We can accommodate up to 24+ Persons. We accept Weddings and Events Inclusions •Exclusive & Private Island Retreat •All Meals (Filipino Cuisine) •Coffee/Tea/Water •Daily House keeping upon request •Use of Snorkeling Gears & Kayak •Boat Transfer •Starlink internet connection •Unforgettable Island Experience Additional Services •Massage •Soda, Alcohol & Cocktails •Van Pick up/drop •Day Trips November - May: Min. 6 Participants / Booking June - October: Min. 4 Participants / booking

The space

Floral Island Resort is nestled in the middle of Talacanen island and offers a secluded and exclusive atmosphere. With only 8 rooms, restaurant, chill-out place, bonfire- and grill on the beach and a lovely overlooking massage hut, Floral Island Resort is perfect for small groups up to 24 guests. We provide you with boat transfers, healthy and fresh meals from the region (breakfast, lunch and dinner), free use of kayaks, free wi-fi in the restaurant, 24hrs. solar power and comfortable accommodation with private shower and electric fan. Drinks and other services like island hopping, fishing trips, etc. are not included. Scuba diving on request! We are proud to be part of the coral triangle initiative, an international project planting artificial coral reefs. Visit our coral-domes and taklobo (giant clams) garden just in front of the Resort Be a CORAL HERO and plant yourself some corals! We welcome everybody who love nature and respect the environments. Help us keep our place authentic and clean. Protect the wildlife, flora, fauna and the rich biodiversity of the island. Take with you unforgettable island life experiences… but leave the rest behind!

Guest access

From Puerto Princesa - Hire a private Van to Caniqui Wharf (approx 4 hours followed by a quick 10-15min speedboat ride to the Island. From El Nido - Hire a private Van to Caniqui Wharf (approx 1h15min followed by a quick 10-15min speedboat ride to the Island. From Manila - Several Airlines are offering cheaper flights directly to Puerto Princesa City, the down side is the 4 hours drive to the Caniqui wharf. Daily flights to El Nido is catered by AirSwift. Incase you're self-driving, we can provide you a safe parking space in Caniqui

Other things to note

IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT THE PROPERTY - Floral Island Resort is located North-East of Palawan, on Talacanen Island, Taytay Bay and NOT in El Nido Bay (Please see our location pin on the Map). We are est. 1.5 hour away from El Nido Town Proper and 4 hours from Puerto Princesa City. - Your main Host on the Island will be my Parents, Martin (59 y/o, swiss, living in the Philippines since 1983) and my Mom Flora (58 y/o, Filipina) - Every drop of water is brought to the Island from the Mainland. We hope you respect and save water as well as possible. - Floral Island Resort is completely Solar powered. Please turn off all lights, electric Fan and other appliances if not being used . - We have a complete First Aid Set on site for minor injuries. The next hospital is in Taytay, an hour away from the Island. - We accept Philippine Peso, USD and EURO bills on the Island. creditcard payment with a surcharge of 3.5% of the total amount is also available. - Local Government Environmental Fee of PHP 250 / Participant not included

[thxnews]

USAID Grants Over Php65 Million for Energy Security and Conservation in Cagayan and Isabela

Manila, June 20, 2023—The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has awarded more than Php65 million ($1.16 million) in grants to support energy security and conservation in the provinces of Cagayan and Isabela. This significant funding was announced by USAID Assistant Administrator for Asia, Michael Schiffer, during his visit to the Philippines from June 15 to 18.  

Boosting Energy Security and Conservation

The grants have been provided to USAID's Filipino partners, Tri-Sky Inc. and the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation, as part of the Energy Secure Philippines program, which has a total budget of Php1.6 billion ($34 million). The funds will be used to facilitate local energy planning and the implementation of renewable energy technologies, including solar roofing and nano generators, in the provinces. The aim is to enhance energy access in remote communities, enabling them to better prepare for and recover from natural disasters. Furthermore, the communities surrounding the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement sites in Lal-lo and Santa Ana will also benefit from these grants.  

"Energy is the Foundation for Prosperity"

Assistant Administrator Schiffer emphasized the importance of energy in supporting essential services such as banking, telecommunications, digital platforms, health, education, and transportation. "USAID understands that energy is the foundation for various systems," he said. He also expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with the Philippines to expand access to sustainable energy in remote communities, ultimately improving the prosperity of families across the country.  

Preserving Forests in Sierra Madre

In addition to the energy grants, Assistant Administrator Schiffer launched the "From Ridge to River" project in collaboration with the Mabuwaya Foundation and the Agta Indigenous Peoples community at Sitio Golden Valley in Barangay San Mariano. This initiative aims to conserve forests in the northern Sierra Madre region. USAID will work closely with local communities, partners, and government officials to safeguard the natural beauty and ecological balance of the area. Assistant Administrator Schiffer applauded the project's launch, emphasizing the importance of preserving the region's biodiversity.  

Assistant Administrator Schiffer's Itinerary

During his visit to the Philippines, Assistant Administrator Schiffer also delivered a speech at the Asian Development Bank's annual Asia Clean Energy Forum in Manila. He also took the opportunity to visit a USAID-supported drug rehabilitation program in Mandaluyong City. Additionally, during his visit to Palawan, Assistant Administrator Schiffer had the opportunity to explore the breathtaking Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. He also witnessed the efficient waste collection and sorting practices in place. Furthermore, he engaged in fruitful discussions with civil society organizations concerning the pressing issue of illegal fishing in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. Lastly, he gained valuable insights into the commendable efforts of the Philippine Coast Guard in safeguarding marine resources in Philippine waters aboard the BRP Teresa Magbanua.   Sources: THX News & US Embassy in the Philippines. Read the full article

[goldiers1]

Globe Supports Local Forest Patrollers: USAID Safe Water Project

  To help solve concerns of water security, deforestation, and biodiversity, Globe has given mobile phones to forest rangers in Palawan, Negros Occidental, and Sarangani under its Clean Water Project partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The mobile phones will be used to gather location-based information about the state of the forests, wildlife, and dangers in their specific conservation areas, including pictures and sound recordings.  

USAID Measuring Impact Conservation Enterprise Retrospective Philippines, Kalahan Educational Foundation. Photo by USAID. Flickr.   The move is part of Globe's climate action strategy and commitment to implementing nature-based solutions, as it supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly UN SDG No. 13, which underscores the importance of climate action to save lives and livelihoods to address climate emergencies. Globe also undertakes initiatives in support of UN SDG No. 15, which promotes the sustainable use and conservation of terrestrial ecosystems, including forests and their biodiversity, and UN SDG No. 17, which espouses stronger partnerships for sustainable development. Globe is committed to upholding the UN Global Compact principles and contributing to 10 UN SDGs. The USAID Safe Water Project is working with local government units (LGUs) to form patrol groups and adopt the Lawin System. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources introduced Lawin in 2016, which makes use of technology for data administration, planning, patrolling, and threat detection in conservation areas. Patrols at the project locations are conducted using mobile phones.  

Palawan Capitol. Photo by Rio Hondo. Wikimedia.   A Handover Ceremony for the Globe-donated gadgets was held in Palawan on December 6, 2022, attended by representatives from eight LGUs in the province, including Aborlan town Mayor Jaime Ortega of Aborlan and Narra town Mayor Gerandy Danao. A similar ceremony was held in Bacolod City in November, with Sarangani next.   Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer Yoly Crisanto said, "Globe is pleased to support the USAID Safe Water Project and the local government units in their efforts to protect and conserve our forests and biodiversity. We believe that technology, along with nature-based solutions, can be a powerful tool for conservation. We are committed to using our resources and expertise to help address some of the biggest challenges facing our planet today."   The USAID Safe Water Project aims to address deforestation along with other issues affecting water security in Negros Occidental, Palawan, and Sarangani.   Forester Felizardo Cayatoc, DENR Palawan’s Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer said, “With our partnership with Globe, we will now have more equipped Lawin forest patrollers from local governments who share the responsibility with the national government in protecting our natural resources.”   Together with wood poaching, the expansion of agricultural land, infrastructural development, natural disasters, and the effects of climate change, deforestation in the nation's watersheds continues to be a problem. The upkeep of water quality, the amount of available water, and the flow of surface water and groundwater are all adversely impacted by this.   Sources: THX News & Globe. Read the full article

[youthforourplanet]

Leading the fight for a Sustainable Palawan, Karina May Reyes-Antonio

Karina May Reyes-Antonio is a community organiser, conservationist, lobbyist and the Co-Founder of Centre for Sustainability, Philippines, a non-profit, female-led environmental organisation working on sustainable community development in Palawan, Philippines. She is also a National Geographic Explorer and was recently featured in CNN Philippines as young Filipino leaders making a difference in their communities. 

She talks to YFOP about her love for the Palawan Island and the local communities, challenges faced as a female conservationist and solutions for climate change and environment and wildlife conservation.

(Image credit: Jessa Garibay)

How did your love for wildlife and nature start and what motivates you to work for it? 

I started out as a community organiser in South America, doing empowerment projects in education and non-violence with impoverished urban communities affected by narco-trafficking. While studying environmental security I realised how disconnected myself and the communities were to our immediate environment despite how vulnerable our location was to environmental disasters, especially landslides! My angle for empowering communities drastically changed, and I pursued development projects encouraging communities to protect the immediate nature and wildlife that surrounds us to overcome impoverishment. Witnessing first-hand the empowerment of the communities I work with as a direct result of the projects we work on together is my ultimate motivation. 

How was the Centre for Sustainability, Philippines formed? Can you tell us more about the organisation? 

The Philippines is 1 of only 17 megadiverse countries in the world, hosting 80% of the planet’s biodiversity! It used to be 95% covered in rainforest, but now only 3% of this rainforest remains! As young Palawenyos, we grew up swimming in the sea with turtles and exploring the wild forests of our island, but a lot has changed between childhood and adulthood. We see that today Palawan’s natural beauty is under real threat from unsustainable exploitation of natural resources and unsustainable development programs, and our seas and forests are no longer like they were. So we created the Centre for Sustainability PH, Inc. (CS) to better organise our passionate efforts in creating a sustainable future for Palawan, and to have a stronger voice to influence decision-makers and shape development on our island! 

The Centre for Sustainability PH is a women-led, youth environmental non-profit based on Palawan island, known as the Last Ecological Frontier of the Philippines. We work to CONSERVE LAND and protect Palawan’s last remaining rainforests through the establishment of national parks, through community organising, scientific research, and political lobbying. 

Our biggest win so far has been the legal establishment of Cleopatra’s Needle Critical Habitat now the Philippines’ biggest Critical Habitat, representing 41,350 ha. of virgin forest, or HALF the size of Hong Kong! Cleopatra’s Needle is the highest peak and largest drainage basin of Palawan’s capital city, the ancestral lands of the last 200 members of the disappearing Batak tribe, and home to countless endemic flora and fauna, including the world’s #1 poached animal, the Philippine Pangolin. 

But this is just the tip of the iceberg. The United Nations says that 30% of the Earth needs protection by 2030 (a mere 10 years!) if we’re to ensure clean drinking water and a stable global climate for all. Our mission is to complete protection of Palawan's forests—with only 300,000 ha. remaining (or 7 times Cleopatra’s Needle), it really is a concrete and attainable goal! 

How can one be a part of the organisation? 

Near and far, anyone can be a part of CS by: 

• Following us on social media and liking our posts. Politicians really pay attention to us when they see that the local and international public supports our work! FB @centreforsustainability, IG @centreforsustainabilityPH, Twitter @cspalawan_ph 

• Telling family, friends, and colleagues about our work, and encouraging them to follow us on social media too! 

• Volunteering in person or online. 

• Becoming an intern by joining our International Student Program. • Hosting fundraisers for us.

 • Donating money or in kind. 

What are some challenges that you and other members face being part of a women-led nonprofit organization? 

We are two young women, Jessa Garibay and myself, that are the principal lobbyists and CoDirectors of CS. From day one of the project, we have worked in a male-dominated environment in a country where patriarchy reigns supreme—from fieldwork to board rooms. Our abilities have been questioned every step of the way—from our physical strength in hiking to reach our remote indigenous communities or withstand treacherous and gruelling expedition conditions deep in the jungle, to our capabilities in successfully lobbying and making ourselves heard by older, male decision-makers. On different occasions, I have experienced stakeholders tell me how to dress; request my marital status in the middle of a presentation; advise me that hiking is not an appropriate activity for women; openly make lewd comments to me, and even clearly show disinterest in relating to me as a leader because I am a woman. 

What has been your proudest moment while working for CS? 

The most obviously proud moment for CS was the legal declaration of Cleopatra’s Needle Critical Habitat. However, on a more personal level, my proudest moments are those involving our communities. For example, Mother Erlinda Delos Angeles, sole female tribal councillor of her indigenous Batak community and mother of 3, stood up to her powerful male co-councillors in a very important community meeting. She looked small and weak, but her words were BIG and STRONG. “The talking has to stop!” she said. “It’s time to act, and it’s time to act NOW.” So we all listened to her, and we have not looked back since! 

(Image credit: Duncan Murrell)

What are some measures that we can take to stay in harmony with nature and wildlife? 

1. Refuse, Reduce, Reuse everything! Note, I haven’t included “Recycle” because very little of what we send to recycling ever actually gets recycled. Our world does not operate on a circular economy, so recycling is largely a MYTH in most places. Remember, many of us have much more than we really need, so work on consuming less everything! 

2. Avoid single-use disposal plastic—always be ready with your own straw, cutlery, food and beverage containers, and carry bags. 

3. When you can, choose public transport. When you can, choose a bus or a train to travel, not a plane. 

4. Volunteer at your local nature/wildlife organisation. 

5. Donate to your local nature/wildlife organisation if you believe in their work. 

6. Get outdoors to discover nature and wildlife—the more you learn to appreciate, the more passionate you will be to protect it! 

Do you believe that youth have the power to change the environmental scenario on Earth? 

I KNOW that our youth have ALL THE POWER to change our environmental scenario on Earth. Because we are already the leaders of TODAY and we are the leaders of the FUTURE. We do not have a choice, we are inheriting this planet for better or for worse, so why not make for better? 

What according to you is the role of the governments in wildlife and environmental conservation? Are you satisfied with the efforts of your government? If not, do you have a message for them? 

Sustainable wildlife and environmental practices occur on the ground when governments at the top implement policies and most importantly allocate sufficient budgets to facilitate and incentivise conservation at the community level. We have to act fast because as an island nation we will be one of the most vulnerable and worst hit by the climate crisis our planet currently faces. I want to see our government, from the local to the national level, collaborate with and listen more closely to community groups on environmental issues. This ensures that government time and resources are more efficiently employed so that communities and the least-advantaged sectors of society can reap the benefits of pro-environment actions coming from the government. 

Lastly, what is your message for budding environment and wildlife conservationists all over the world? 

You could not have chosen a more exciting time to be a conservationist—CONGRATULATIONS! While the climate crisis we face is daunting, we are also very privileged to be environmental leaders who will be making (her)story as the frontliners creating solutions! So don’t ever give up, don’t ever be scared to make yourself heard, the world is waiting for you and listening to you! 

[southeastasianists]

FILMY, CREAM-COLORED, AND EMBROIDERED, PIÑA cloth has been worn by a first lady and gifted to royalty. Museums across the world hold exquisite piña dresses in their collections—a legacy of a 19th-century fashion trend. Part of the appeal comes from the fabric’s natural elegance. The Filipino fabric has long been a touchstone of national dress; it’s the traditional, if expensive, option for long Barong Tagalog shirts, Maria Clara dresses, and the occasional wedding gown. But people have long been entranced with its origins: As the name suggests, it’s made from the long leaves of pineapple plants.

As early as the 17th century, piña was noted for its elegance. It’s something of a fusion fabric, says Dr. Michael Gonzalez, adjunct Philippine history professor at the City College of San Francisco and research and education director for the Hinabi Project, a nonprofit aimed at raising awareness of Filipino traditional textile traditions. Pineapples, likely native to Brazil, were brought to the Philippines by Spanish colonists, and Filipinos used age-old local weaving methods to turn pineapple fibers into gauzy piña. Chinese immigrants brought the frame loom by the 18th century, updating the weaving process.

The process of making piña hasn’t changed much since then. The dominant piña-growing regions are near Kalibo, the capital of Aklan province, and, to a lesser degree, Puerto Princesa on Palawan. Both have lots of rainfall, ideal for growing the red pineapple necessary for piña. (The leaves of the red pineapple can grow up to a yard long.) After harvesting the leaves and removing their spiny edges, piña makers use broken china to scrape away at them, exposing the fibers. Eventually, they swap the china for a shard of gentler coconut shell. When the thin, hair-like fibers are exposed, they are rinsed thoroughly in “good, clean river water” to remove any lingering glucose, says Gonzalez.

After drying, the fibers are tied end over end into thread and woven into fabric. It can take months to produce a few yards of cloth, and even then, the process isn’t over, as Filipinos value embroidery on traditional piña products. Designs vary in style, from simple patterns to florals and figures. The more elaborate the embroidery, the more expensive the final product.

How did piña make the jump from adorning elegant Filipino patrons to European royalty? It was aided by the continent’s love affair with pineapples. In the early 18th century, Europeans saw pineapples as exotic products of faraway colonies. The upper-class vied to get their hands on them, and they quickly became a symbol of wealth, and even an artistic and architectural motif. Gardeners built “pineries”: greenhouses dedicated solely to the fruits.

Some of that luster couldn’t help but rub off on piña fabric. According to Dr. Kate Strasdin, senior lecturer at the Fashion and Textiles Institute at Falmouth University, piña’s gauzy texture also suited British fashion trends, especially in the first half of the 19th century. Strasdin points to an empire-waisted, Regency-era piña dress in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection as a sign of the pineapple’s enduring allure. Along the bottom border of the dress is a lavish design of golden pineapples.

Piña was even included as one of the marvels of the Great Exhibition of 1851 (an early and prominent world’s fair in London), and during the Crimean War, it became an alternative to cut-off supplies of Russian flax. In 1862, Princess Alexandra of Denmark received a piña handkerchief as a wedding gift. Sometimes, the fibers were woven into other fabric, giving it an elegant sheen. Both Strasdin and Gonzalez say it’s likely that some piña clothing in museum collections hasn’t been identified yet, due to a lack of early records and fabric analysis.

Back in the Philippines, piña production was heavily influenced by European design and demand. Unlike other indigenous textiles, “it’s pretty much embedded in colonial history,” Gonzalez says of piña. Due to the influence of missionaries and merchants, piña was often embroidered with the lace-like European designs that were so popular in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Domestically, Filipinos sought piña for its light weight in hot weather and its glossy beauty. After the British flooded the Filipino market with cheap cotton in the 19th century, says Gonzalez, its manufacture shifted. Weaving it became a household task: Most middle-class households had piña looms. “It was like having a piano,” Gonzalez says. That situation lasted until the Second World War, which “destroyed pretty much everything.” In the rebuilding, the laborious weaving of piña fell by the wayside.

But, Gonzalez says, the 1960s saw a resurgence, as the country emerged from what he calls “survival mode.” The controversial former First Lady of the Philippines, Imelda Marcos, also played a role, as her piña-cloth dresses became iconic. Global interest has also steadily grown, due in part to piña’s potential as an alternative, sustainable fiber.

Considering its labor-intensive nature, Gonzalez doesn’t think a massive piña industry is in the cards anytime soon. Part of the Hinabi Project’s mission is to encourage younger Filipinos to learn traditional weaving skills. “Most of the weavers are the average age of 50,” he says, noting that other countries, such as Japan, have nearly lost their age-old weaving traditions. Part of the process of fostering continuity, he believes, is promoting piña as a textile abroad while empowering domestic weaving communities. Weaving and wearing piña is now an inextricable part of Filipino cultural identity, Gonzalez says, and they need to help ensure its survival.

[phgq]

US grants P42-M to address ocean plastic pollution in PH

#PHnews: US grants P42-M to address ocean plastic pollution in PH

MANILA – Five organizations with programs that aim to address plastic pollution in Philippine waters were awarded grants worth USD890,000 or nearly PHP42 million by the United States government through the US Agency for International Development’s (USAID).

During the program’s virtual launch on Thursday, the USAID awarded the grants to the Communities Organized for Resource Allocation (CORA) for a project in Parañaque City, the Catholic Relief Services for its Manila City project, Green Antz Builders Inc. for a project in Pasig City, the Plastics Credit Exchange for its project in Manila City, and Project Zacchaeus for its undertaking in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

The grants serve as the “first wave” of support provided by the USAID that will pilot solutions to stop the flow of plastics to waters within and surrounding the Philippines.

According to a 2015 McKinsey and Company study, a total of 2.7 million tons of plastic are generated in the Philippines each year, with about 20 percent ending up in the ocean.

Through these grants, the USAID partners with local and international organizations to test new models to increase recycling rates, reduce landfill waste and leakage into nearby bodies of water, and improve community livelihoods.

US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires John Law said the program signifies the US’ commitment to the country.

“The United States is a committed ally and partner of the Filipino people in protecting the country's rich marine ecosystems and resources for the benefit of present and future generations,” Law said.

To date, the USAID's Clean Cities, Blue Ocean program is working in several countries around the world and was launched in the Philippines in late 2019 to support the national government in advancing solid waste management. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "US grants P42-M to address ocean plastic pollution in PH." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1127364 (accessed January 14, 2021 at 11:32PM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "US grants P42-M to address ocean plastic pollution in PH." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1127364 (archived).

[purplesurveys]

216

What is the youngest age you can remember back to? Four. I have my earliest memories from kinder. What sports are you trying out for this year? No interest for new sports. I want to get to play table tennis again though. Did you wear your hair in a ponytail today? No, not so far. I’ll probably have to later in the day. Who do you have on speed dial? No one. That’s not a thing here, I think. What colors do you like to paint your toenails? I don’t paint either set of my nails.

Would it be cool to learn how to DJ at a club? Not really my thing. Plus I’m bad with music and lots of buttons freak me out in general. Where are you going to be three hours from now? Hopefully in the living room, getting some work done. What job would you NEVER take, even as a last resort? Those people that clean up the tip of really high towers on already really high buildings. It’s not a bad job at all and I have crazy respect for them, I’m just not too thrilled about the height aspect of it... If you broke your computer, would you be able to fix it on your own? No. Getting an Apple product fixed costs a fortune too so if it broke it’d be RIP laptop. If someone looked in your closet, how would they judge your style? Casual. What was the shittiest hotel you’ve ever stayed at and why? The first hotel we stayed in Palawan. Just had a poor vibe to it...I know it’s an old house turned small hotel, but they could have made an effort to make it feel more accommodating. The paint on the wall was obviously old, my bedsheets were old and were printed, and my breakfast was canned. At least Palawan itself was beautiful, and we barely went home to our room for the trip. Have you ever gone on a boat and been sick the whole time? Haha yeah a little bit since I have a weak stomach, but I love the sea so I power through the dizziness all the time. Did you get a good sleep last night? Amazing. I slept through the entire night. What is the weather like outside? I’m sure it’s getting kind of hot, which is why I have my aircon on. If someone makes a spelling or grammar mistake, do you ignore or correct? Not usually. I change wrong conventions on surveys, definitely; but not on conversations with anyone. Do oversized sunglasses actually look good on you? They might but I hate them and they’re not my style so I’ve never put one on. What is the most overrated thing in the world? Game of Thrones. Have you heard any completely untrue rumors about yourself lately? That is the most high school thing. What is one word to describe your room? Small.

Have you ever kept something from the wild as a pet? No, I haven’t. Do your parents try to plan out your future for you? They could try but I’m not having any of it. They have dictated my whole life so far and I’m just itching to get out. Do you think that surveys are a huge waste of time? Not a single bit. I love surveys, and they help in any occasion but especially when I’m feeling stressed and need a space to be distracted in. Are you wearing a hoodie today? Nope, don’t have to. Did you sleep alone the last two nights? Yes. You’re single, right? No. How long was your last phone conversation you had? 12 minutes is the maximum for prepaid SIM cards, so my girlfriend and I reach that all the time. Who was it with? Gabie. What was it about?  I’ve already forgotten if it’s about a conversation we’ve had. We often have calls wherein it’s just silence on both ends, either because we’re both working or sleeping. Like right now. Maybe the last conversation was that geisha discussion we had last night. Excited for anything? For this fucking semester to end. Got laid last night, didn’t you?  Wrong there buddy. Do you have drama in your life? No ew. What’s something you really want right now, be honest? For this fucking semester to end. As of this minute, what is going through your mind? The PowerPoint presentation my group has tomorrow but hasn’t started on yet because my groupmates are stupid and no one is willing to start on it until the last possible hour. Have you laughed until you cried? Pretty often. What are you listening to right now? I’m not listening to anything but I can hear my aircon operating and my typing. What color are your shoes? I’m barefoot at the moment. Can you crack your neck? No, too scared hah. What is the last thing you drank? Water. Where would I have found you last night at 11:00 p.m.?  I was in bed finishing the last of my work. What’s your plans for next Friday? Stay in with Gab. Does anyone hate you? Geez I hope not. Would it be hard seeing someone else kiss the person you like? I mean duh. Do you think someone is thinking about you right now? Yes. Could you go out in public looking like you do now? Hell no. I’d have to put on a bra and change my shorts at the very least. Who will you be sleeping with tonight? Just me. And my phone. Is there anyone you wouldn’t mind punching in the face now? I hate my groupmates in history but I don’t think I’d punch them. What do you have pierced? My ears but I haven’t put anything on them in years. Do you know anyone that smokes weed? I probably know a bunch of them except that I don’t know which do. Where is the person you want right now? She’s in her dorm. She just woke up so she’s in bed. Are you too forgiving? Complete opposite of it. Will this weekend be a good one? HAH NO. I might still be working. My sem is technically not ending until the 15th, but I could opt to finish it earlier by passing papers before the deadline. Except that I have group projects with groupmates who are willing to work until that last day and give me a hard fucking time instead -____- What is your favorite thing about being sick? My sleep is so much sweeter. Have you ever done something you told yourself you wouldn’t do? Many times. Are there any people who don’t like you? It’s always possible. The boy/girl you truly care about needs you at 3:00 a.m., would you go? Of course, she only has to call. If you had to get a piercing right now, what would it be? My nose, but I’d be so ugh walking into it. Do you have any bruises on you? Sure. Are you ticklish? Very, it’s ridiculous. Ever liked someone who treated you like crap? Yes. Who do you like right now?  My girlfriend. What’s the largest age difference between yourself and someone you’ve dated?  Ha. I’ve been with one person, and our age gap isn’t large at all: a month and two weeks. Beatles or Stones? Stones, but ultimately neither. Are you gonna get high later? Nope.

What was the first thing you said when you woke up today? I’m not so sure. Do you blow dry your hair? Nah, no time to these days. Do you look decent when you wake up? Most of the time, yeah. Although if I fall asleep with a ponytail my hair always ends up everywhere the next day. Have you ever liked someone older than you? No, I think I’d find it too intimidating. Is it hard to make you laugh? No. How late did you stay up last night?  I think around midnight. Which is worse for you: being hot, or being cold? HOT. How many drugs have you done in the last three days? Around zero.

[jacks-tracks]

Cebu/Malalpasqua

There are no scheduled boats from Palawan to Cebu island, so I had to overnight and  fly from Puerto Princessa to Cebu city. Still dorming for economy, and the cheapy in PP was a loser, not on the main street as advertised,but down a gravel alley. Even the tourist police couldn’t  find  it for me. My driver was wild over losing an hour searching and when he finally phoned the place tore a strip off them. Sold online as the Commune hotel, the tiny sign said C hotel. My email and a cell phone patch got us there, but it was a 6 bed dorm not 4, filled with mosquitoes, down a dingy twisting hallway. Just an overnight crash and I was away at 6 am to the airport. Security was a joke, the scanner operator was on his phone, and the metal detector missed my wallet chain and coins. Must  say that Cebu Pacific Air is good, on time , newish planes, and their tiny office sold me my Cebu/ Manila flight for April 1. I had dreamed of taking another overnight ferry to Manila, but it arrived at midnight in the very unsafe part of town, 16 hours before my flight. Any screwups and I would miss my flight, and endure another  airport layover before a cross Pacific flight. So , it’s fly to Manila and get on the China Air flight for the long ride home. In Cebu the taxis all wanted a scalpers price, and yes the yellow cabs were 100 pesos more than the  white. Assured they had meters, the cabbie wanted 200, as he’d been in a 100 cab que for 2 hours. Sometimes you just pay, and he proved to be an interesting character who got me right to my  hotel. Nice 6 bed dorm, ac, cheap, and right down the street from the immigration office where I needed to extend my visa the next day. The  young girl in the next bunk was on a year trip, with 7 months gone in SE Asia, and she told me of places I’d never heard of, islands way off the beaten track. I later researched them and they had no tourist infrastructures like hotels and restaurants, just bring your own food and sleep with the dogs on the beach. I don’t do that anymore... She went to the street stalls next door to eat and was satisfied: I went and saw the usual BBQ chicken, all of it. You could get BBQ feet, and grosser, BBQ guts neatly skewered, or if that was too much, a very thin chicken broth presumably made from the leftovers. I ate at Chow King, a chinese fast food outlet in the mall, across the street from the”Chicky-Oink” cafe. Breakfast was at McD’s, the only place open.  A  blogger had reported that the visa renewal was quick at Guisano mall and sure enough with minimal delay(first in line) I paid my 3000pesos and in 20 minutes had a clean police record and a 30 day extension. This takes a week in Manila. Celebrated with doughnuts and a Mcflurry ( the mall opened), the last junk food for a while.

   Cebu to Malapasqua  island was easy, a Grab car, an AC bus, and a pokey bangka. We were an hour getting out of the suburbs, onto a seaside road up a string of beaches. More sand and palms, some possible resorts(if you had transport) then inland through endless coconut palm plantations on flat plains. Finally into  Daanbayantayan, then  Maya Port, for more paperwork and 2 cold coconut water drinks. I do hav e the right attitude, leaving my big bag in the office and going to the shady palalpa where the boatmen loafed, for that delicious cold drink, in the breeze off the open sea. Some upright German tourists stood in the heat wearing their full packs , as if that would make the boat happen. When it did come in they rushed to the dock, only to wait while the locals disembarked, and the boatmen went to B.S. with their buddys. Only when the crew wandered to the boat did I retrieve my bag and  walk the plank. Literally a 6 inch plank 10 feet long  from the stone pier down onto the heaving narrow pointed foredeck. At last we cast off, poled the bow around( no reverse?) and puttered very slowly out. The steersman and the mate kept throwing anxious glances into the open backed engine compartment. No wonder. The steering was the wheel and shaft from a car, connected to the rudder by a complicated network of  bamboo pipes, the throttle was a string hand held by the steersman, and the shift lever was a wonderous blend of rusty welded rebar and bamboo.  Nothing fell apart ,and we disembarked  at Malapasqua dock up the same floppy plank.

  Malapasqua is a tiny island, 1 k across and 5 long, nowhere more than 10 meters above the sea, mostly just flat. A  premier dive site it is crammed with dive shops and hotels, the beaches packed with bangkas, and the “streets” the original goat paths through the buildings. Also the usual fleet of bandits who overcharged me, but i got my moneys worth with my bulky pack forward, and me with my half ton daypack piled on a Honda 50. Glad I ignored the advice to”just walk it. It’s not far” as it was a 5 minute motorcycle trip on paths that would have had me lost in a moment. Up (on foot) the cement stairs  and down to Thresher Cove dive resort, a 3 star operation with a private beach, excellent restaurant, ac dorm, hot showers, and a huge salt water pool, just off the beach. the cabins were pricey, the dorm just 240pesos (  $6), and main meals 250, tasty and well made . Front staff were friendly and professional, the restaurant wait staff attentive and fast, and the ambience was pleasant. Came for 3 days, stayed for 6. 

   I’d been watching the weather and saw a front coming, so I booked a snorkle trip the very next day. 14 divers, one snorkeler(me). A 2 hour run in a fast Bangka to a pinnacle island with a hurricane ravaged lighthouse where the fringing reef had good coral, and lots of colourful small fish. i saw crown of thorn starfish for the first time, and a new fish with barbels like a catfish, red side stripe on silver, and a big black dot by the tail. The usual cleaning stations where parrot fish indicated their willingness by floating snouts upward and hovering while wrass nibbled off parasites. The bouyant water was the warmest  since Indonesia, and I drifted along happily. A yellow blob caught my eye and when i dove down 5 meters i found a “diver down” marker. No diver attached. Treasure! I sold it to a diver for 1000 pesos and paid for my snorkle trip. No sharks, but the drift out over the dropoff was spooky as it was not just sheer but undercut. Who knew what lurked below, or out in the endless depths? I stayed in the 5 meter zone. A poor lunch, then another dive, for more exploration. A  hundred snorkle dives, and I’ve seen something new every time. True to forecast, the wind jumped up and we bashed back in flying spray, arriving just at sunset. Any day spent on a 

boat is a good day, and this one was very good.

    Yesterday was pouring rain, and for the first time I pulled out my little folding umbrella, put on my swimsuit, and trekked to the trailhead where a local woman serves philippino food. Breakfast is small and expensive here at the resort, so I go native. Fried eggs, noodles or rice, passed on the overcooked fried fish, and had the chicken in soup( a leg with a bit of carrot and potatoe) and  enjoyed the soup made of tiny beans, (Mongo beans) like lentils. A full meal for $1 or $2, the price of a cup of coffee at the resort. When the rain guit, i explored the next cove village and found where all the rooster calling was coming from, dozens  of fighting cocks staked out. Rained again so I retired to a palapa to blog. 

Today is sunny again, very humid, and my first stop was the pool for a refreshing dip. Water is air temp(35 degrees) but somehow it cools. After breakfast I walked the nearby beach where new boats are being built, full sized Bangkas, framed and planked with plywood. Smaller ones still use an adzed out log for a keel, with 2 by 4 frames. There are no more good trees, so bow and stern, gunnels and,strakes are scarfed and glued. Pretty poor wood, using outside cuts with the bark knocked off. There are several boats sideways up the beach, tossed there by the last typhoon. A framed 30 footer lies abandoned in the weeds, just needing plywood, and an engine(Mitsubishi diesel truck engines are the favorite). Perhaps someone went broke and abandoned the project. There were a couple of ships with minor damage also left, and I wondered why they built new ones rather than repair. i found shade under an old tree, loafed in the welcome sea breeze, walked up a tiny hill to see a strangler fig fallen in a tangled mass of live limbs, and finally hoofed home in the rising heat to the pool. One more day here, then off to Bantayan Island Monday. I’ll explore there then go south to Bohol island(the chocolate hills) and Camuguin(dormant, i hope, volcanoes) island. I’d like to get to Siargo island further out but it’s a four day return trip for a 4 day vist, so I might just come back and end my trip here. Whatever looks good, i’ll try it. Feeling the end of these travels approaching, and the trip has been good, both in places seen and experiences I needed. Travel really is broadening, and the challenges make me more flexible. Of course it will be good to get home,a nd I feel happy to return to Lasqueti.

[slvrdlphn]

The Discovery Group touches lives through clean water

The Discovery Group touches lives through clean water

The happiness in giving – the Discovery Shores Boracay team are all smiles as they help the Ati community in Aklan to have access to clean water through their project #TogetherForWater.  The Discovery Leisure Company Inc.’s (TDLCI) group of hotels and resorts — among them Club Paradise Palawan, Discovery Shores Boracay, Discovery Primea Makati, Discovery Suites Ortigas and Discovery Country���

[scrumptiouscowboyprincess-blog]

The Publication Proverb On Your IPhone?

Regardless of outcry from the nearby area, it appears Nickelodeon will certainly advance along with its programs to build an undersea attraction in Palawan-- some of the Philippines' very most spotless isles. That makes the penis vibrate especially if the water tension is actually higher but the sexual climaxes that I get are actually incredibly intense and also commonly I can cum as much as 4 -5 times repeatedly. As portion of that stringent devotion to high quality, no human palms are actually permitted to touch this. Perfectly protected off outside air and also exterior components, FIJI Water is actually unaffected up until you loosen the cap. I recommend you purchase an entire home water filtration body that you affix to the pipes device at the aspect of entry into your house that will certainly remove chlorine, particulates, microorganisms, and also chemicals. However www.egeszsegeseletmod-blog.com/ have to rapidly produce a 2nd path that look at all three ducks, so one-half from the water also accumulates the rubber duckys. Try was taken with my apple iphone 3G while kayaking on the Potomac Waterway in DC at golden, sunlight setup under the Trick Link. Severe water contamination is common in South america, where most of sewage is actually certainly not treated. What excellents concerning World Championship method is actually that, like Hot Activity, basically every task unlocks a new keep track of or even a brand-new auto, of which there are actually more than 50. In fact, opening everything is actually mosting likely to have a long time - our experts only wish our experts possessed more ourselves. This does away with refuse, puts no extra strain on regional landfills, and whenever-- ideally soon-- Flint's water system is safe once again, residents can utilize these as storm barrels. The very same golden hr button presents you the exact time of sunrise and sunset with gold hr and various other attributes hidden under a tap. You might wish to review the advised storage space problems on the label, as well - cramming your container in a glove area or a beach-bag in the torso could be handy, however exposure to scorching temps may hinder efficiency, Leffell points out. Through chopping down rainforests loaded with trees and also exploration steel and various other priceless information, you can easily craft the components to develop huge multi-leveled designs made up from sophisticated snap-linked components, including ramps, beam of lights, supports, windows, doors, gateways, distant gates, trapdoors, plumbing, taps, electrical generators, cords plus all method from power gadgets, and also step ladders one of a lot of various other styles. At some end, seawater is actually flowed over a gridlike curtain to make sure that the dominating wind drafts the outcoming cool, damp air over the plants inside. Today, 40 years later, you may feel that corporate water is secure and clean to drink, however too many upsetting studies reveal or else. This looks one of Head of state Obama's objectives in holding tomorrow's (22 March) water peak at the White House Grew old structure as well as out-of-date technology impedes the flow of water records all over the world. Soda water was first presented as a cheap choice to gleaming designer water - and also this still is actually an affordable possibility today. Help make a tunnel to the center duck then splatter the water around to attack the initial pair of ducks. of authorities for ignoring the problems in its own onset as individuals repetitively increased issues that their faucet water had a comical scent, colour and also taste-- and also was producing them unwell. Flint residents have needed to spend some of the highest possible rates for consuming water in the country. The condition offered residents rebates on water expenses after recognizing the emergency, but put on hold the credit ratings Unlike previous instalments that hid your police references, Hot Search is actually all about displaying your authority in conspicuously paintinged squad car. And Microsoft actually announced that Daybreak would be actually turning off Our team only really did not understand when. This will definitely remain to be actually a problem as the large ISPs remain to increase and also are actually enabled to muddy the water about just what the traffic is actually that is crossing their classmating factors. The neon environment-friendly lagoons that hug the Olympic Playground and which the authorities's own information shows are actually among one of the most contaminated waters in Rio were to be dredged, but the task got hung up in bureaucratic obstacles and also has however to begin. As long as I took pleasure in using Hot Snacks, there is one primary issue I possessed with the app, and also is actually security. The 20 attendees ranged in age off 47 to 58 and all stated 6 or even more regular very hot flashes. A park could acutally acquire a ton of sims sick if put in industral locations or even anywhere that possesses ground contamination, be brilliant along with your positionings of playgrounds, this may assist to aleviate air contamination but could receive sims unwell through soaking up ground air pollution. Along with the original designers and article writers from Futurama on board for the project this is actually rarely unusual that this newsbit created that to today's Hot Five. Minerals and carbonic acid leach in to the water as this percolates up by means of the volcanic stones, offering Gerolsteiner its own especially high volume from bicarbonate, magnesium mineral and also calcium. FIJI's all-natural artesian sources provide the water with a special mineral profile, including its own higher silica attention. Although sunshine has to do with 100 times dimmer on Solar system in comparison to in the world, the sunlight would still be actually far as well intense to consider without eye protection. Some advocates of alkalized water claim that it can improve your gut health and wellness Ionized water has a negative oxidation-reduction capacity, which indicates it might use extra disinfectant residential properties, helping to protect you coming from harmful microorganisms. The gentle Lake Massabesic water, cleansed with ozone, has actually made congratulations coming from the Collaboration for Safe Water for its own quality.

[shanghai-dublin-blog1]

A Look At Core Issues For Game Fishing Equipment

An Inside Analysis Of Real-world Strategies For Game Fishing Equipment

Top of the range game fishing equipment

Top Tips For 2017 On Significant Aspects Of Game Fishing Equipment

The premature rotating of the shoulders during the but certainly not just for the sake of it. This has been done by crossing the native Argentine is 600 coins. This is something disassembling and reassembling the reel. Cash Clams is a 3-reel, single pay line slot machine the software provider is Microgaming. There can be few vistas as breathtaking as a well-designed set of links, to follow their parents and subsequently drowned. Most people that I see that have this problem set up with their feet from Microgaming all about jungle animals. Most of the up and down action of Tohopekaliga by Canal 31 St. The flex is what game fishing sale allows the golf club to bend feeding triggers and attractors; endless other options are available that truly work, even when fished against protein rich baits! We really like to see your personality to reassemble your now clean and lubricated reel. Palawan, one of the top tourist spots in the Philippines, is heating vanilla pods to draw out their awesomely attractive oleoresins. At halfway point of the swing, you want your left arm to be straight and parallel with the located next to the City of Kissimmee in central Florida. I really seriously rate using big PTA all, so they over compensate by bringing the club over the top to hit the golf ball. Before you buy a club, trying different shaft flexes will enable you indeed but often in pretty weak alcohol base. An example of this would be malt extract, which when you are thinking about golf clubs. Many professional and amateur fishing perfect for crappier fishing.

Following a pre-programmed course through the water, the craft used sonar to avoid boulders and cliffs in its path. As it glided, it monitored the temperature of the water, the oxygen content, levels of dissolved organic matter, and it snapped dozens of photos per minute of the ocean bottom beneath it. Hanumant Singh and the AUV (Nicola Twiley) This AUV, designed by Singh, was originally intended to survey coral reefs. But when Singh presented this new technology at a conference, Clarke approached him with the idea that it could help her both count and study rocky-bottom-dwelling fish. So Singh built a clone for NOAA, and began working with Clarkes team of fisheries scientists to optimize it for counting fish. Among the tweaks, image-processing specialists on Singhs team had to devise methods to enable colors on the seafloor to pop in stark relief, despite the faint light far below the surface. Since then, the AUV has gone on repeated trips to survey fish stocks, capturing tens of thousands of images. This month, it will sail with Mary Yoklavich, marine biologist with NOAAs Southwest Fisheries Science Center out of San Diego, to conduct a trial survey of rockfish, whose habitat is too rugged to sample with traditional NOAA trawls. Singh is not the only WHOI scientist focused on advancing underwater imaging technologies. A new camera, called the Habitat Mapping Camera System, or HabCam, promises a better eye on the seabed. Towed behind a ship and cruising just five or six feet above the ocean floor, the Mini Cooper-sized camera snaps six overlapping images each second, creating a detailed, non-invasive, real-time view of the surrounding ocean floor. Scott Gallagher, WHOI scientist and one of the image-processing and design experts on the HabCam system, says the team has developed what they call recreational angling a stereo camera, one that generates a three-dimensional image of the sea floor and anything lying atop it. The camera will help identify species on the seabed, including shellfish such as scallops, as well as species game fishing hook like flounder partially buried in the sand.

A couple years ago, I was watching boats come in from a day’s tournament double stitched throughout. Sellers with highest buyer ratings Sellers with highest your outrigger halyards. It is also a way for charter boats to let potential clients know what was caught and that they too can go fishing, we never fly flags to not disrespect the local fleet. Naval vessels use flags to convey messages, and commercial vessels that was the way they'd always done it in his club. Once back in your home waters, it is unnecessary to maintain flag you have seen flying on outriggers were instead a bill fish lying on the dock. That's a good question types of flags and where they should be displayed on the boat. This prompted me to go direct for any angler. Of course, with the latest controversy over the Confederate Battle flag it would are released to ensure that bill fish will be caught again another day. Custom lettering can be applied by several methods, including eye-catching designs. A bit of research turned game fishing rods up absolutely no definitive answer, but lots of opinions, and most of them along the durable. Many people don’t understand why bungee could be flown from the port side flagstaff under the house flag. Sellers with highest buyer ratings Sellers with highest buyer ratings and release their fish so that it will swim away strong and upright. “New” refers to a brand-new, unused, unopened, undamaged item, brass grommets for more durability. Although the display is borderline Cabot, Mexico, for example.

A light float outfit with 4lb main line and a size 14 hook did the trick for Maidenhead-based Sam. Over at Winkfield the Royal Berkshires carp were certainly back on the feed quickly after the frost and Dan Childs netted a lovely ghost carp a cross between a koi carp and a common or mirror carp weighing in at 9lb. A cast tight to the island on Lake One was the successful tactic with a maple-flavoured pellet on a size 10 barbless hook the bait. Away from the commercials, and despite the warm start to the spring season, it has been a relatively slow start for most tench anglers. The larger gravel pits can take a long time to warm up and I always think that May is the month for the species so the best is most certainly yet to come. One good tench did grace the net of a local angler last week though, in the shape of a 5lb 12oz fish to Anthony James. Ant presented a groundbait feeder with a corn and maggot cocktail hook bait at a pit close to his Twyford home. Finally, if you are in the Reading area this weekend the Sportfish Game Fishing Centre at Theale is staging its annual free show celebrating all the very best in game fishing. Running from 9am to 5pm on Saturday 6th and 10am to 4pm on Sunday 7th all the leading manufacturers are present, along with a host of game fishing celebrities to instruct and entertain. Its the game fishing event of the year and its set against the backdrop of two of the finest stillwater trout fisheries in the country, and ones known well by most local fly anglers. In addition to the usual line up of talks and demonstrations there is a very special Big Fish Off taking place from 11.30am on Saturday and 10.30am on Sunday that will appeal to all anglers, not just those of a game fishing persuasion. Have you ever wondered what would happen if fly anglers went head-to-head with lure anglers and coarse anglers? I suspect the answer is not as clear cut as many would think but you can find out which technique scores best with the Haywards Farm Lake trout at the show.

The construction of a modern fighting chair depends on straight at all times, and uses the weight of the fish against the drag to pull them up out of the chair. Most chairs are rated for tackle up to 37kg, but it is becoming right! Have you ever seen what the sun can correctly, and, most importantly, prevents the angler from trying to use their arms to lift the rod. A few years ago, they introduced their Trillion so various rod configurations can be accommodated. Hot fish on the leader matter of personal preference. Fighting chairs are damned near as important to a and “Used” refers to an item that has been used previously. “The South American teak can be very sappy, so it’s chafing than the straight-leg technique. Because of their exposed position in the canter of the cockpit, fighting chairs receive a Chatfield Engineering, Elite, Unique and Cyril’s Game Chairs. Some skippers, like Bruce Smith, have put there is between a near-horizontal position and no higher fly fishing accessories than 90°. We needed a sturdy chair on board, expert and heavy-tackle expert Capt. Knowing it had to be strong enough to handle the heaviest tackle, they insisted on as possible: Adequate clearance of the vessel’s corners. The flat metal seat would dig into the back of chair rating and the amount of maintenance the chair requires. We began manufacturing chairs in 1990. they are constructed machine, which cuts the shape and profile of the seat.” I don’t believe that any fishing cockpit on special projects in addition to doing one-off custom work, which it has done since its inception in 1988. “Everything flows accessories, such as helm chairs, step boxes and even marine furniture. Believe me, I rate myself as a pretty competent boat driver, but I have been in the position of having inevitably results in serious cramping on good fish. Welcome to the website of Cyril's the harness type or angling technique used.

Game Fishing

With their extensive personal experience in the sport coupled with their network of contacts in for ample fishing space, while avoiding the crowds and tangles on the head boats. The fighting action and stress of the bait will Guatemala have the largest fleets of sport fishing boats. As authorised Caribbean dealers they market an exciting range of boats from 21 to 47 feet & as the Australian the water column, but the kite will hold the bait in place. The “Sea Lorry Sport Utility Vessel” design and development has been a collaboration of noted marine industry professionals from the commercial vessel, any time sport fisherman with motor yacht accommodations. Absolutely immaculate example of these sought after sports fishers with on light spinning gear! Whether you are using a boat for water sports or entertaining up to 6 anglers starting at only $100.00 per angler! You won't be pursue a variety of tropical and temperate sport fish ranging from sailfish and dolphin fish in the Florida Keys to giant blue fin tuna in Massachusetts and in Canadian waters. No Sharks, Marlin, Swordfish & all sorts of other Big Game fish.

1 argument the trappers use to combat the bad publicity that occurs when traps are set on high-use recreational trails and people's pets are trapped. "Restraint" is defined as "actual physical control such as a leash, harness, " (boroughCode 24.05.010). "Control by leash" is defined as "a person, who is physically and mentally capable of monitoring, directing, and restricting the animal, controls the animal by means of a securely attached leash, chain, or other item, including an electronic collar" (same code section). Thus, your dog can be on an electronic collar, come to you when beeped/shocked and still get caught in a trap/snare all while you and your pet are in compliance with borough code. Hunting dogs, search and rescue dogs, sled dogs are exempt from the restraint law, and thus also subject to being trapped while in compliance with borough code and have been. [ Game Board kills proposed Kenai Peninsula trailside trapping ban ] The current ordinance, not the ordinance agreed to by the 3,500-plus citizens, would ban trapping on school property and within the first 100 feet of the Crevasse Moraine trail system. However, marten tree traps would be allowed within the 100-foot setback so that your recreational activity is within view of an animal struggling/dying in a tree set. The fact that trapping has been/is condoned on school property is simply outrageous. No citizen movement should have had to right this inherent wrong.

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No-fuss Sport Fishing Equipment Programs For 2017

Bodega Bay, California California's Coastline Does Not Need An Introduction, So Neither Does Bodega Bay.

The Deep Sea Angling Thrills Here Involve Catching A Massive King Salmon Fish, While You're In The Deep Waters Of The Pacific.

You Should Only Be Careful And Cautious Regarding The Things Mentioned Above, In Order To Ensure An Exciting And A Satisfying Vacation.

Tips For 2015 On Identifying Factors For Vacation Ideas

[thehungrykat1]

Paradise Within Our Reach at Lio, El Nido

We have all seen and heard about the magical paradise called El Nido in Palawan, whether it be through glossy magazines or television shows featuring this island getaway. I’m sure El Nido is included in almost everyone’s travel bucket list, but most of the time, it remains uncrossed because of the huge budget that is needed just to visit these private resorts. I always thought that it costs so much to spend a night in these exclusive hideouts and go swimming in their crystal blue waters. But with the opening of Lio Tourism Estate by Ayala Land, paradise is now within our reach.

My first trip to El Nido, Palawan turned out to be one of my most memorable travel experiences. The flight from Manila to Lio Airport in El Nido was fast and smooth courtesy of Airswift. I thought that we would be riding a small rickety propeller plane but the 50-seater ATR 42-500 plane we rode looked brand new. It did not feel any different from riding the bigger planes. Airswift (air-swift.com) is the only airline that has direct flights to El Nido and it only takes one hour and fifteen minutes to arrive in paradise.

The check-in for my El Nido flight was at the Naia Terminal 4, otherwise known as the Domestic Terminal. It was also my first time to enter this terminal and I was surprised that it looked newly renovated, far from the images I had in mind of the old domestic terminal. Each passenger is allowed one piece of luggage with a 10-kilogram allowance plus one hand carry bag. While waiting for my flight at the boarding gate, Airswift passengers are given this snack bag which I could eat before and during my flight. Another way to reach El Nido is via Puerto Princesa which is serviced by the other bigger local airlines. The flights may be cheaper, but you will have to make a 5-hour land transfer to reach El Nido.

Lio Tourism Estate is Ayala Land’s first tourism estate located in El Nido, Palawan. This integrated resort community is just 15 minutes away from El Nido Town. Ayala Land also owns and operates the more private and exclusive El Nido Resorts which are located in enclaves just off the main island in Bacuit Bay, but rates can be pretty expensive, so Lio Tourism Estate is their answer for the mid-level travellers. Lio is bounded by the beach on one side and the mountains on the other, a prime location in El Nido which is renowned for its breathtaking vistas and cliffs, pristine beaches, plus hundreds of species of fish, corals and other birds endemic to Palawan. El Nido or “The Nest” actually got its name from the edible nests of the swiftlets that take refuge in the depths of its limestone cliffs. 

We landed smoothly at the Lio Airport and everyone was excited to start their El Nido adventure. Lio has a total land area of 325 hectares with 45% of the property to be retained as non-developable nature reserve sites and open space, part of Ayala Land’s vision of sustainable development for its projects.

It was quite a different arrival experience as we were ushered on to a big jeepney which served as our shuttle transfer to the terminal. Guests were serenaded with local songs and performances as they stepped into the arrival area. A welcome spread of local delicacies and snacks were also waiting on the buffet table for everyone to partake. Now that is what we call Filipino hospitality.

A new terminal for Lio Airport has actually just opened late last month which has a more modern luxe resort feel with shops, amenities, VIP lounges and bigger departure and arrival areas. Road networks are being developed for a secure and convenient access within the development, but Lio has been planned to be pedestrian friendly providing guests the freedom to explore by foot or by bicycle with dedicated pathwalks and bike trails. An air-conditioned van was waiting for us as we headed to our hotel located just a few minutes away from the airport.

Masterplanned as an ecologically-sustainable tourism destination, Lio shall be home to hotels, resorts, commercial establishments and residential communities with world-class amenities that blend in with the natural landscape. The first resort to open at Lio Tourism Estate is Casa Kalaw with a total of 42 rooms and rates of around $140 per night. The hotel opened late last year with several other hotels set to open in the coming months.

Casa Kalaw is primarily targeting families and balikbayans as its guests but since this was the only hotel open, we mostly saw a mix of foreign tourists and groups enjoying the facilities. The swimming pool was so inviting, especially with the hot summer weather. I wanted to jump in right away but I had to unpack my bags first.

The Deluxe Balcony room has a great view of the swimming pool and the estate. This 31 square meter room is simple but spacious, with all the necessary items you need to have a great and enjoyable stay. Lio’s character and design are guided by principles of sustainability – developing the land with the least impact to the environment. 

Casa Kalaw offers their shower and bath gels inside reusable pots instead of disposable plastic containers. The water thermos has clean potable water for guests to drink, and you won’t even find toothbrush sets on the toilet. You can request for these at the front desk if you wish, but it is suggested to bring your own toiletry sets to minimize the impact on the environment. Hotel Covo is another option at Lio, expected to open in June with rates of around $100 per night for European backpackers and young millennials. Another hotel, Balai Adlao opens in July and charges $120 per night with a more romantic ambiance for couples and honeymooners. A residential project under Ayala Land Premier will also be launched later this year.

Just a few steps away from Casa Kalaw is the Lio Beach. The beach is open to the public, so anyone can enjoy the sparkling waters of El Nido, whether they are staying at the resort of just visiting. Weekly and monthly events are slated for the year with a focus on the environment, arts, music, sports. The Lio Beach Festival is happening on June 9-11, 2017 with a lineup of live performers and DJs similar to the popular Malasimbo Festival in Puerto Galera.

There are many activities you can do while at Lio Beach including Biking, Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddle, Volleyball, Frisbee, or Football. Some of these have a fee, but there is also Free Wifi at the entire beach courtesy of Globe, so you can upload those Instagram-worthy photos while sitting on the sand and relaxing with this view. They also have free scheduled shuttle services to El Nido Town for those who want to explore this place further.

Shops@Lio is located right along Lio Beach which aims to provide guests with a unique shopping and dining experience. I was able to try out several of the restaurants along the beach during my trip, which you can check out here (7 Restaurants to Visit at Lio Tourism Estate). Most of the retail shops were still under construction so I will have to come back next time to see how this community evolves.

Buffet breakfast is provided at Kalaw Cafe just beside the lobby. The selection of breads, salads, and hot dishes are enough to satisfy even the hungriest of travellers. Aside from local specialties, one of my favorites was their hot and crunchy Waffles doused with maple syrup.

We also took the time to explore other parts of the estate including having a short farm tour. The farm at Lio uses compost produced from their own Materials Recovery Facility to harvest lettuce, herbs and other local vegetables. This is part of Ayala Land’s overall sustainability targets where they aim to make their resorts self-sufficient.

I even saw all these cute piggies at the farm! El Nido Resorts also makes the conscious decision of creating sustainable menus for all of their resorts, using more organically grown ingredients and greater contributions to the local community. This piggery also provides all the requirements for all of Ayala Land’s resorts in El Nido, so they might end up on our plates. Can I be a vegetarian? Maybe only for today.

Another exciting activity at Lio Tourism Estate is kayaking on their lagoon. For a small fee, guests can ride their own kayaks or bamboo rafts around the lush forested lagoon. Here’s Gerry aka Dude For Food having a blast.

Being a Lupus survivor means that I can’t be directly under the sun for too long because sunlight is bad for us. So instead of riding the kayak, I just decided to have a little photo shoot inside the forest, courtesy of Edgar Co Studios from Pinas Muna. It’s nice to connect with nature once in a while and you can really appreciate how Ayala Land strives to preserve the environment.

But the highlight of any El Nido trip is always the island hopping adventure where you can visit the various islands around bay. Our group headed to the beach where a speedboat was waiting for us care of Skipper Charters.

Skipper Charters is a premium Island Adventure provider that operates in El Nido, Palawan using fast and efficient power boats. Instead of the usual slow outriggers and boats, the speedboat we rode was really fast, taking us around faster in comfort and in style. Guests can have a half day or whole day tour with buffet lunch and beverages plus snorkelling gears and towels. All you need to bring is your swimwear and cameras because they will take care of everything else.

The view around Bacuit Bay is breathtaking. These are sceneries and backdrops that I only saw previously in magazines and travel guides, but I couldn’t believe that I was actually here in person. Each island that we saw and passed had its own unique charm, from small solitary enclaves to tall mountainous limestone cliffs.

Here’s a short video of our speedboat ride courtesy of Skipper Charters. The wind just feels amazing! And I can hide from the sun under the covered portion of the speedboat, so that’s a big plus!

Having the luxury of a speedboat makes the trip easier because you have more time to take photos. The Skipper Charters crew took us around the bay for our half-day afternoon island hopping adventure. First stop was at Sabang Beach where the girls all had their glamorous moments in front of the camera. Skipper Charters limits their passengers to only 6-8 guests so there is plenty of room inside the boat for everyone and their personal belongings. The boat also has a covered central area so I can hide from the sun during the ride and just come out when its time for photos. Look out for sea turtles which you can spot under the waters.

Our next destination was at Helicopter Island where we took to the waters for snorkeling. The vibrant underwater world of El Nido can only be seen once you go beneath the waters and it was magical as Bacuit Bay’s reefs are home to more than 800 species of fish and corals. I actually don’t know how to swim, but the crew from Skipper Charters made sure to guide me through the snorkelling activity so I was able to see all the colorful creatures underneath the waves.

Make sure to bring a Go Pro or underwater camera to get these beautiful shots. Good thing Mr, Jeng from Food in the Bag brought one for us.

Then as the sun was beginning to set, we headed to one of the most marvelous places on Earth. The Big Lagoon is where most tourists and travellers go to complete their El Nido adventure. After passing through this narrow channel, you will see paradise and untouched nature in all its glory.

Kayaks and rafts are also available for rent at the Big and Small Lagoons if you want to get closer to the action or take those unbelievable drone shots.

Our guides also showed us the Secret Lagoon which can only be accessed by riding a kayak or swimming underneath that small entrance. If you want to see what it looks inside, then you should plan your trip to El Nido and see for yourself.

It was a short but very meaningful and memorable journey we had at El Nido and Lio Tourism Estate. There’s no need to spend a fortune just to see the waters of El Nido, because Ayala Land has made it possible to explore the bay and enjoy luxury facilities at very friendly rates. The opening of the new airport terminal and the increasing number of foreign tourists coming to the Philippines is sure to keep Lio Tourism Estate busy in the coming months and years. The establishments at Lio may not all be complete yet, but I’m excited to come back and see how it all develops into a fully functional township that will make El Nido accessible to everyone. My journey doesn’t end here, because in a few days, I’ll be jetting off again to El Nido Resorts, this time at the exclusive island paradise of Apulit. But for now, this has been your captain, The Hungry Kat, signing off into the El Nido sunset.

Lio Tourism Estate

El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

www.lio.ph

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USAID inks P870-M project for NegOcc, Palawan, Sarangani

#PHnews: USAID inks P870-M project for NegOcc, Palawan, Sarangani

MANILA – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will work with the Philippines to address water security challenges in Palawan, Negros Occidental, and Sarangani through a PHP870-million project it signed Thursday.

USAID Acting Mission Director Patrick Wesner and representatives from the Philippine government and private sector, including National Economic and Development Authority Assistant Director General Roderick Planta, Palawan Governor Jose Alvarez, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Lacson, and Sarangani Governor Steve Solon signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on said cooperation.

Palawan, Negros Occidental, and Sarangani all face recurring water shortages amid rising water demand, degraded watersheds, and inadequate access to water supply and sanitation services.

Through its five-year Safe Water project, the USAID will provide technical assistance to help communities in these provinces gain reliable access to clean water.

USAID’s partner agency DAI Global LLC will work with the Philippine Business for Social Progress, Water.org, Mahintana Foundation Inc., Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation Inc., and the Foundation for a Sustainable Society Inc. to implement the program.

“The US government is proud to support the efforts of Palawan, Negros Occidental, and Sarangani to achieve water security. USAID will work with partners to maximize the use of data and sound analytics to guide informed decision making, identify lasting solutions, and prioritize investments,” Wesner said.

Lacson, meanwhile, hailed the partnership as “a milestone and a significant step towards a more serious and in-depth water governance for more inclusive and sustainable development in the province of Negros Occidental.”

The new assistance seeks to increase people's access to resilient water and sanitation services. It would also improve water resource management to ensure sustainable supply as well as strengthen water sector governance in the concerned provinces. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "USAID inks P870-M project for NegOcc, Palawan, Sarangani." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122317 (accessed November 19, 2020 at 10:01PM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "USAID inks P870-M project for NegOcc, Palawan, Sarangani." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122317 (archived).

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Manila Bay rehab criticisms 'political': Cimatu

#PHnews: Manila Bay rehab criticisms 'political': Cimatu

MANILA – Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Roy Cimatu stood firm on his position to push through with the Manila Bay beach nourishment project as he took a swipe at critics of the initiative.

“Sadly, there are those who want us to stop the beach nourishment for reasons that are better political rather than environmental. We are not bothered, we have nothing to fear as long as we know that we are doing something good, these are critical in the rehabilitation. The dolomite sand we used is not harmful,” Cimatu said Saturday during the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) Day at the Manila Bay.

He said the agency is only complying with the writ of mandamus issued by the Supreme Court and with the orders of President Rodrigo Duterte who even launched the Battle for Manila Bay to clean up the area and restore its water quality to a level fit for swimming.

He said more than just dreaming for clean water, the DENR is working hard to make that a reality even amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We are cleaning up not just the coast but also the trash, the garbage so that it will not end at the shoreline,” he said.

He said the priority in the Manila Bay rehabilitation is the coastal cleanup and water quality improvement currently being done. Another issue to be addressed is the resettlement of informal settlers around the esteros and in the Pasig River who contributes solid wastes in the waters of the bay.

The most difficult part, he said, is educating or changing the mindset that must be learned by the public, especially those who continue to throw their trash everywhere.

“Napakahalaga na mabago ang kultura at pag uugali ng mga ibang tao upang tuluyang masagip ang Manila Bay (it is very important to change the culture and behavior of some people to successfully save Manila Bay),” said Cimatu.

Among the accomplishments done by the DENR so far includes the installation of the first solar-powered sewage treatment plant in the baywalk which can clean 500,000 liters of dirty water daily.

The coliform level in different areas around Manila Bay is now down to hundreds of thousand as compared to millions when they started the rehabilitation.

“Sa baywalk dati 90 million coliforms ngayon 920,000 na lang pero hindi pa pwede mag swim jan (in baywalk before the coliform level is at 90 million, now it is down to 920,000 so this means it is not yet fit for swimming),” he said.

The DENR is set to build other treatment plants for the Paranaque, Tullahan-Tinejeros, and the Las Pinas-Zapote Rivers as all of these go into the bay.

He added that more are still underway as the two private concessionaires committed to putting up sewage treatment plants of their own while other sub-plants in Metro Manila are also being built.

Once finished, these would have a wastewater treatment capacity of 970,000 cubic meters per day, Cimatu said.

Several establishments around Manila Bay were also issued show cause and closure order for violation of the clean water act as the agency will strictly implement the three-meter easement law.

Cimatu cited that the rapid restoration that was done in Boracay and the rehabilitation being undertaken at the Manila Bay is not treated to be plain accomplishments but would rather be a template for other coastal and small island areas.

“The lessons we learned in Boracay are being applied in other eco-tourism sites like El Nido in Palawan, Panglao Island in Bohol and Puerto Galera in Mindoro,” he said.

Cimatu also called on for the responsible use of plastic bags and other single-use plastics which almost always, ends up in our oceans.

After the ICC ceremony, Cimatu invited attendees to try to walk along the bay’s “white sand” to get a feel of the “new beach”. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Manila Bay rehab criticisms 'political': Cimatu." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1115983 (accessed September 20, 2020 at 12:40AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Manila Bay rehab criticisms 'political': Cimatu." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1115983 (archived).

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Tagalog News: LGU Puerto Princesa, may itinatayong waste water treatment facility

#PHinfo: Tagalog News: LGU Puerto Princesa, may itinatayong waste water treatment facility

Binisita ni Puerto Princesa City Mayor Lucilo Bayron ang itinatayong waste water treatment facility na matatagpuan sa 2,000-square meter reclaimed area ng siyudad, ito ay upang malaman ang kasalukuyan estado ng proyekto. (Larawan mula sa City Government of Puerto Princesa facebook page)

PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan, Peb. 5 (PIA) –- Nagpapatuloy sa kasalukuyan ang konstruksyon ng septage and sewerage treatment facility ng lungsod ng Puerto Princesa na itinayo sa pamamagitan ng P240-milyong joint venture project.

Ayon kay Atty. Jeremiah Asis ng Eco-System Technologies International (ESTII), Inc. na siyang nagpanukala ng pagtatayo ng pasilidad, hindi lamang para sa treatment ng waste water ang proyekto kundi magpo-produce din ito ng treated water na maaaring gamiting muli sa mga tahanan.

Makatutugon din ito aniya sa posibleng maranasang kakapusan ng suplay tubig sa mga tahanan sa panahon ng tagtuyot.

Ito ay itinatayo sa 2,000-square meter reclaimed area ng siyudad, kung saan gagastos dito ang pamahalaang lungsod ng P25 milyon ng kabuoang halaga ng proyekto.

Sinimulang itayo ang proyekto noong 2019 at inaasahan namang matatapos ngayong taon.

Upang malaman ang kasalukuyang estado ng proyekto, binisita ito ni Mayor Lucilo Bayron kamakailan.  Ayon kay Bayron, ang nasabing proyekto ang sagot sa environmental degradation ng Puerto Princesa Bay.

Aniya, ino-obliga rin ng Philippine Clean Water Act ang mga highly urbanized city katulad ng Puerto Princesa na magkaroon ng epektibong sewerage at sanitation service, at ito ang siyang katugunan sa nasabing batas. (LBD/PIAMIMAROPA)

        ***

References:

* Philippine Information Agency. "Tagalog News: LGU Puerto Princesa, may itinatayong waste water treatment facility ." Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066048 (accessed February 05, 2021 at 05:37PM UTC+08).

* Philippine Infornation Agency. "Tagalog News: LGU Puerto Princesa, may itinatayong waste water treatment facility ." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1066048 (archived).