#new year iloilo

[pannaginip]

It was martial law, and soldiers shot and killed many young Tausug men in Jolo on mere suspicion of being rebels, [Amroussi “Cheng” Rasul, a grandson of the late Hadji Butu, the first Muslim Filipino senator] recalled. Among them, he said, was his classmate, Alfred Chang.

Rasul’s grim memory harked back to the government’s military crackdown on the historic town, as it sought to suppress the uprising of the Nur Misuari-led Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), then a new group that emerged to challenge the martial law imposed by the late strongman Ferdinand E. Marcos more than a year earlier and started the struggle for Moro independence.

Five decades later, the events of the February 4-11, 1974 siege in Jolo remain largely forgotten, and neither the local governments nor the National Commission for Muslim Filipinos (MCMF) has arranged commemorative activities for what has been dubbed the “Jolo-caust.”

The Battle of Jolo, also called The Burning of Jolo, was a significant but often overlooked event in the country’s history in that it was the strongest resistance against the martial regime of Marcos at that time, said retired judge Soliman Santos Jr. during the live-streamed “The Siege of Jolo 1974” forum at the University of the Philippines in Quezon City on Monday, February 12.

At the same time, the event signaled the beginning of a growing movement for Mindanao independence, according to Santos, author of the book The Moro Islamic Challenge: Constitutional Rethinking for the Mindanao Peace Process.

As the military fought against MNLF forces, intense battles spread throughout the city. Military ships bombarded the pier, a gas station exploded, and napalm bombs were used. After days of fighting, the military regained control, but about two-thirds of the Jolo burned to the ground and lay in ruins.

Amina Rasul, lead convenor of the Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy (PCID), said it was a “devastating blow to the fabric of Tausug and Jolo society resulting in immeasurable human suffering, economic hardships, and destruction of our political structure… and represented a very painful part of our history.”

“People in Manila think we were always poor. No, we were very well off even though we were neglected by the government,” she said.

“Because of the complete destruction… the money that made Jolo relatively rich went to enrich Zamboanga, General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Manila… And because there was capital flight and the destruction of infrastructure, the best and brightest had to leave because there were no opportunities and they had to support their families,” she said.

The Marcos administration then, concerned about possible consequences from oil-producing Muslim nations, took steps to address the humanitarian impact in the predominantly Muslim province. It established a government task force to lead Jolo’s recovery, which included actions like stopping loan repayments to banks, providing significant loans to residents, and pausing tax collection temporarily.

Elgin Salomon, an assistant history professor at UP-Visayas in Iloilo, said the government then initially concealed the situation in Jolo and later framed the narrative that it was fighting “Maoist rebels” in Jolo through its controlled media.

The MNLF subsequently abandoned its pursuit of independence and forged a peace agreement with the Ramos administration in the 1990s. The accord led to the establishment of the now-defunct Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), the precursor to the current and expanded Bangsamoro region.

Five decades later, what lingers is a sense of nostalgia, with many survivors still longing to witness the return of Jolo’s former glory, said Agnes Shari Tan Aliman, a survivor and author of the book The Siege of Jolo, 1974.

2024 Feb. 12

[fortheloveofsimsph]

Hello world! Welcome to my Sims 4 corner of the Internet!

My name is Michelle and I am a 40ish mom living in Iloilo, Philippines.

I started playing The Sims since the year 2000 and that is already more than 20 years ago. I was a University freshman that time. Playing The Sims 1 was one of the reasons I look forward to going home after a long day in the University. It was incredibly enjoyable to discover Custom Content and MODS that I could download to enhance my gaming experience.

However, as school and work took precedence, I found myself unable to play The Sims anymore. Additionally, the high cost of expansion packs during that time made it even more challenging.

I often reminisced about those carefree days spent building virtual worlds and crafting compelling stories. Despite my busy schedule, the joy of customizing every detail and creating unique characters lingered in my mind. I knew that one day, when life allowed, I would return to that beloved pastime, eager to explore the new features and innovations that had emerged while I was away.

Today, my son and I often sit at the front of our computer, and it becomes a bonding experience. We share tips and tricks, and it's delightful to see him create his own universe with the same enthusiasm I had when I was younger. It's fascinating how The Sims has evolved with time, yet its core charm remains unchanged.

On this blog, I plan to share my Sims 4 experiences, tips for building and storytelling, and perhaps even some family-friendly mods I've discovered along the way.

For now, let me just share with you a photo of my first dog in Sims 4 that I created with my first Sim for a legacy game that I am playing right now. This is Garlic Bread and she has reached her elder years. Her owner, Savannah, is my current favorite Sim and she's now married to Clement Frost (Father Winter) and they have one child named Polaris. They also have three other pet dogs, Toasted Bread, Cinnamon Bun and Fruit Cake. Also, they have a horse named Bullseye Pancake.

Lastly, I just want to share that Savannah transformed into a mermaid after her little adventure inside the cave in Sulani.

I can't wait to play more and see the endless possibilities that life in the Sims world offers to a mom like me.

[filipeanut]

When Rocel and I started dating she was training young journalists and helping another organization promote safe and transparent elections. I knew from the beginning that her drive would take her places, and if we stuck together, it would take us places too.

In a few weeks, her latest milestone involves studying public health in the UK on a full scholarship. Thanks to the privilege of being a freelance designer with a US passport, I’ll be joining her in our new home.

My hope for her is that she has a renewed sense of vigor, after years of working inside the eye of a storm involving a global pandemic complicated by fake news that has been just as viral. Not that she has been drained or disenchanted by her work, but because we both know that this masters degree will help her (and the people she works with, and for) weather storms in the future. A Bisaya word that comes to my mind is “paglig-on” = to strengthen.

Here Rocel is wearing a one-of-a-kind two-way hablon top with detachable Filipiniana sleeves emblazoned with hand sewn floral lace by Iloilo’s very own lin.ay.ph.

Salamat gid Pilipinas, see you again soon.

[anotherwvba]

WVBA Fighter Profile: Star Mika

Star Mika is an original character of @cyrah-is-cool101 and appears in this story with permission. I've made some changes to the character to better suit my story, but with the approval of her creator.

Ring Name: Star Mika

Nickname: The Heroine of Mabuhay Justice

Ranking: Minor Circuit Unranked

Record: 6-1-0 (4 KO) (44-0-0 with 26 KO as amateur)

Hometown: Iloilo City, Philippines

Real Name: Mikaela Tiongson

Age: 17

Height / Weight: 5’9” / 183 lbs

Hair / Eyes: Black / Blue (both often change for cosplays)

Attire: white sports bra with teal trim; teal trunks with white trim; pink gloves with black palms and cuffs

Theme: “Moonlight Densetsu” (Instrumental) by DALI

Biography:

The daughter of a Filipina female gymnast and African-American businessman, Mikaela’s path to the WVBA came by following a longtime friend. Born in the Philippines, her family moved to Brooklyn, New York when she was in sixth grade. It was there she would meet eighth grader Paulie MacKenzie, a young man now known to the world as the WVBA World Circuit Champion Little Mac.

Initially following in her mother’s footsteps as a gymnast, a sport at which Mikaela excels, Mikaela hit upon the school’s boxing club by chance one day and met Mac. WIth a lack of support for gymnastics at the school and encouraged by Mac, she would sign up for the boxing club. She would pick things up quickly and forge a fast friendship with Mac. Mac even gifted her a pair of high school competition gloves, teal gloves that she still has, when she became a freshman.

She would fight as an amateur through school, amassing an impressive record, before turning pro last year, inspired by Little Mac’s success in the WVBA. When the WVBA announced a Women’s Circuit would soon be starting, Mikaela knew what she must do.

Outside the ring, Mikaela is totally unassuming. A diehard otaku, especially magical girl anime, with a love of Filipino cuisine, Mikaela is a kind-hearted young woman who is friendly almost to a fault. She has a strong sense of right and wrong, and that has followed her into the WVBA. Adopting the ring name Star Mika, the self-appointed magical girl of the boxing ring, she despises foul play in the sport and goes out of her way to face those fighters. As one of her heroes might say, “WIth the power of the stars, I will punch you!”

Boxing Style: “The Starlit Striker”

A star gymnast and a talented boxer, Star Mika is as nimble and agile as any of her magical girl heroes. She aims to dazzle and overwhelm her opponents, taking the fight to them while actively defending and countering when she can. While she’s not the strongest fighter out there, her punches are solid and the number of blows her opponents will likely suffer will definitely add up.

Like many of her anime inspirations, Mika does have her ace-in-the-hole, her ultimate technique, the “Maiden’s Meteor”. It is, however, a feast or famine technique. A powerful uppercut-left hook combination, “Maiden’s Meteor” can knock down any foe, but it can be stopped, though the window is short. The uppercut can be avoided, but if it lands, her opponent’s ability to defend the left hook that follows is slim and the chance of avoiding it is nil. However, if Mika misses both blows, she’s wide open and vulnerable.

Star Mika uses her own athletic skills and the inspiration from her magical girl heroes to be an incredible force in the ring. She combines the grace and agility of a gymnast, the striking of a practiced boxer, and the flamboyant and fun flair of a magical girl. This leads to a dazzling fighter that is hard to hit, swarms all over you, and looks for that one mistake where she can stun you and land a flashy flurry that leaves you out cold. And if you bend or, worse yet, break the rules and tarnish the integrity of the sport, well… simply put, if you face Star Mika, best to be on the right side of justice.

Power Punch: "Maiden's Meteor"

A hard right uppercut that lifts her opponent just barely off their feet, then a left hook to the cheek while they are airborne.

[onenettvchannel]

BALITANG REHIYONAL: PCSO Lottery Draws makes a splash on a new state-media home to IBC-13 with multiple Jackpot wins in the Luzon regions and Iloilo City [#FirstOnOneNETnews]

SANTA BARBARA, ILOILO -- The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) commenced 2025 with a series of fortunate events, as four (4) individuals clinched jackpot prizes in the first week of the year. This streak of luck coincided with the transition of the PCSO Lottery Draw's broadcast from the state-media broadcaster PTV-4 to IBC-13 and D8TV, effective December 31st, 2024. As merely recalled that the final PCSO Lottery Draw broadcast on PTV-4 aired on Monday night (December 30th, 2024). The program transitioned to its new platform on IBC-13 the following evening, per reports by CETV Philippines.

On December 31st, two (2) winners shared the Lotto 6/42 jackpot of PHP25,351,115.00 (approximately U$D433,597). The winning numbers are 27, 26, 9, 41, 19, and 20 were matched by tickets purchased in 'Naga, Camarines Sur' and 'Lucena, Quezon Province'. The winners have been identified as 'Aurea B. Cavallo' and 'Estela A. Olivares'.

The inaugural draw on IBC-13 and D8TV on January 1st, 2025, proved auspicious for 'Harold C. Sy' of 'Quezon City, Metro Manila'. Sy secured the Mega Lotto 6/45 jackpot of PHP57,030,072.20 (around U$D975,423.27) with the numbers 6, 41, 29, 12, 2 and 15. The following day on January 2nd, witnessed another win as 'Francis Joseph P. Bernas' from 'Sta. Barbara, Iloilo City' claimed the Super Lotto 6/49 jackpot of PHP18,445,722.00 (approximately U$D315,489.46) by selecting the numbers 19, 48, 15, 11, 7 and 24.

Subsequent draws on January 3rd and 4th respectively, saw no jackpot winners. The Grand Lotto 6/55, Lotto 6/42, Mega Lotto 6/45, Ultra Lotto 6/58 and Lotto 6/42 draws all had no winners during these dates.

The biggest transition of the PCSO Lottery Draws (PCSO) to its different state-media broadcaster 'Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation' channel 13 and DWKC-TV 31.7's D8TV (in Mega Manila) is intended to broaden its reach, allowing more Filipinos to participate in at home to watch LIVE drawings on television -- pairing in with your lottery ticket. The said new state-media broadcaster home in lottery broadcasts airs on a same timeslot every weeknights and weekends at 2pm, 5pm and 9pm, showcasing popular PCSO games like Ultra Lotto 6/58, Grand Lotto 6/55, Super Lotto 6/49, Mega Lotto 6/45 and Lotto 6/42, as well as 6D, 4D, 3D, and 2D lotteries. Viewers can tune in via digital TV, which syndicated nationwide on free radio, including flagship AM station in lotto draw over DWAN 1206khz AM (also in Mega Manila), as well as official livestreams on their social media streaming platforms.

To claim your prize, winners need to sign at the back of their lottery ticket and proceed in person to the PCSO Main Office located at 'Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong City, National Capital Region'. Lottery prizes exceeding PHP10,000 Philippine pesos (much approximately U$D171 bucks) is subject to 20% tax by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), as per mandated by the TRAIN law under Republic Act #10963 or Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion of 2017. Winners must have to come forward to claim their prizes, and is valid for one (1) year from the lotto drawing date; but any unclaimed funds will be directly allocated to PCSO's charity fund projects.

The successful transition to IBC-13, BEAM's D8TV, and DWAN 1206khz AM, combining with the immediate jackpot wins in the Luzon and Visayas regions, demonstrates PCSO's commitment to improve its services and reaching a larger audience with a fair, accurate and responsible gaming, resulting in increased public participation in its lottery games. Congratulations to all the winners in the Luzon and Visayas regions!

FILE SCREENGRAB COURTESY: PCSO GOV via YT VIDEO

SOURCE: *https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_iG_TFIqpo *https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnq76WlwloM and *https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUihDAmCLME

-- OneNETnews Online Publication Team

[vanneygo]

Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Growth, Challenges, and Joy

As I look back on 2024, it’s been a whirlwind of a year—a mix of trials, triumphs, and memorable moments with my loved ones. Here’s a glimpse into my journey:

Starting the Year on a Challenging Note

The year began with me recovering from an injury that tested not just my physical strength but also my mental resilience. It wasn’t easy to stay positive, especially with financial pressures piling up despite the help from insurance and a company loan. However, I’m grateful that the operation was successful, and I’m steadily working towards paying off the loan by December 2026.

Family Time and Travel Highlights

One of the most uplifting moments was flying back to my hometown in April, even though walking was still a struggle. I reunited with family, including a 1-day road trip to Divine Mercy in Cagayan de Oro, filled with laughter and scenic views. A serene stopover in Claveria left me eager to return someday.

The months flew by with school reunions, reconnecting with old friends, and work trips to Bacolod and Iloilo. Despite challenging weather and a rocky boat ride, I enjoyed bonding with colleagues and fraternity brothers over good food and even a "virgin mojito."

December Festivities and Special Celebrations

The holiday season was packed with joy and activity. On December 25, I celebrated my baby nephew Zen’s christening as one of his godmothers. It felt so special to celebrate this milestone on Jesus' birthday—truly a blessing! The New Year’s celebration was equally memorable. We welcomed 2025 at home with family, eating grapes under the dinner table at midnight for good luck. It was a fun and unique tradition that added to the festive vibe.

On January 3, we marked another milestone: Baby Zen’s first birthday! It was a lovely day spent at the beach with family and friends. The kids enjoyed swimming, the adults bonded over food and drinks, and the day ended with everyone sharing leftovers—a family tradition that’s close to my heart.

Back to Reality

By January 5, it was time to head back to Cebu and return to work. Although the holiday blues hit hard, I’m motivated to dive into 2025 with a fresh perspective and goals to achieve.

Grateful for the Journey

Looking back, 2024 taught me to embrace life’s unpredictability and lean on the love of family and friends. Despite the bumps along the way, I’m grateful for the memories made and lessons learned.

Here’s to a brighter and more fulfilling 2025!

[civilcodearticles]

ARTICLE 49. Naturalization and the loss and reacquisition of citizenship of the Philippines are governed by special laws. (n)

Poe-Llamanzares vs. Commission on Election

G.R. No. 221697

Mar 8, 2016

Facts:

Mary Grace Natividad S. Poe-Llamanzares was abandoned as a newborn on September 3, 1968, in Jaro, Iloilo.

Edgardo Militar found and registered her as a foundling on September 6, 1968, under the name "Mary Grace Natividad Contreras Militar."

She was adopted at age five by Ronald Allan Kelley Poe and Jesusa Sonora Poe on May 13, 1974, changing her name to "Mary Grace Natividad Sonora Poe."

In 2006, her adoptive mother executed an affidavit to correct the adoption record, leading to a new Certificate of Live Birth.

Mary Grace registered as a voter in 1986 and obtained several Philippine passports.

She married Teodoro Misael Daniel V. Llamanzares in 1991 and became a naturalized American citizen in 2001.

After her father's death in 2004, she returned to the Philippines on May 24, 2005, and purchased property in Quezon City.

She took her Oath of Allegiance to the Philippines on July 7, 2006, and reacquired her Philippine citizenship on July 18, 2006.

In 2012, she filed her Certificate of Candidacy (COC) for Senator, declaring a residence of "6 years and 6 months."

Elected as Senator in 2013, she filed her COC for the presidency on October 15, 2015, claiming a residence of "10 years and 11 months."

Issue:

Whether of not the petitioner was a Natural Filipino Citizen.

Ruling:

The Supreme Court ruled that Mary Grace Natividad S. Poe-Llamanzares is a natural-born citizen of the Philippines.

The Supreme Court emphasized that foundlings are presumed to be natural-born citizens under Philippine law, despite the 1935 Constitution's silence on the issue.

The Court referenced international law principles supporting citizenship for foundlings in the country where they are found.

The burden of proof lies with those challenging her citizenship status, and evidence suggested a high probability that she was a Filipino citizen.

[annz0922jy]

A First-Year Agriculture Student's Journey at Northern Iloilo State University

Starting college is a thrilling mix of anxiety, and for me, stepping into the gates of Northern Iloilo State University in Barotac Viejo was like planting the first seed in a field of dreams. As an agriculture first-year student, there are so much hope and questions inside my mind about what's going to happen. And little did I know that my journey here would be filled with growth, challenges, and unforgettable experiences.

The First Day: The New Way

The first day at NISU was a thrilling experience, full of nervous and excitement. The campus pulsed with life, with lush greenery and open fields around me. In front of me stood faculty and fellow students decorated with a smile. They expressing both a sense of pride and anxiety as I walked towards the agriculture department, knowing that I would get started on a road that could potentially change my future someday.

Orientation was a whirlwind of introductions and presentations. Meeting my classmates, who came from various towns across Iloilo, was a comforting reminder that I wasn’t alone in this new chapter. We bonded over shared goals and nervous laughs, and it wasn’t long before we felt like a team.

The Classroom and Beyond

To start with, we had basic classes like soil science, crop production, and introduction to agriculture. Now, the amount of information that had to be digested was quite overwhelming at first. I soon realised that agriculture is something far more comprehensive than just planting crops; it is a science, an art, and way of life.

I loved most the hands-on approach to learning. One of my earliest practical exercises was in the experimental farm. We were tasked to prepare a small piece of land. As I held the hoe and felt the soil between my fingers, I knew the significance of hard work and patience. Seeing the seeds we planted begin to sprout weeks later was a rewarding moment that gave me pride and determination.

Beyond this door, there was a certain charm about NISU that its location in the town of Barotac Viejo so effortlessly offered. Nestled in rice fields and rolling hills, the place seemed an peaceful location to learn about agriculture.

Challenge and Growth

Life was not all smooth-sailing as a freshman. Lectures, farm work, and personal life often produced conflicting demands. There would be times when I wondered if I was really suited for this course. Waking up at dawn for farm duties or memorizing scientific terms late into the night pushed my will to its limits.

But NISU's support system made the whole experience worthwhile. Our professors-most of whom had years of practice-were not only experts in their fields but also accessible. They pushed us to ask questions, experiment, and learn from our mistakes. Classmates became another source of strength for me and others-included sharing notes, cheering each other through moments of success, and laughing together over moments of failure.

It was never easy coming to NISU to study agriculture: It taught me resilience, team work, and staying grounded-both figuratively and literally.

Challenges have only made me all the more determined to win. I can now better understand that being an agriculture student goes beyond just learning techniques, but also about giving intense respect for nature and the environment, along with being committed to sustainable living.

Final Thoughts

Northern Iloilo State University, Barotac Viejo, has become something more than a place of learning; it's a second home where dreams take root and flourish. My first year of being an agriculture student has been filled with lessons, friendships, and a newly found appreciation for the land as well as its people.

As I look forward to these next chapters in my academic life, I am eagerly looking forward to experiencing growth and contributing to the agricultural future of my locality. Like those seeds we plant, the hard work and care we give today will yield much tomorrow.

[dylan-coloso]

About me!!

My name is Dylan Coloso, and I'm from Iloilo City, Philippines. I'm driven by a curiosity to explore techniques that help me learn and grow more efficiently. Whether it's through gaming, technology, food, workouts, or self-improvement, I’m always on the lookout for new ways to enhance my skills and make the most of my teenage years.

Confidence and communication are my key strengths; I find that my voice and determination help me navigate daily challenges and push me to reach new heights. Guided by a strong sense of truth and resilience, I'm passionate about continuously improving myself and discovering new opportunities.

Looking ahead, I see myself as an entrepreneur with ambitions to establish a business that spans nationwide, and perhaps even internationally. I’m excited about the future and the possibilities it holds as I work towards turning these aspirations into reality

[masongrizchel]

Maintaining Your Momentum 🥊🔥👟

I am proud to say that I defended my thesis proposal successfully. The panels' comments/questions are primarily focused on two distinct categories.

SITE SELECTION - I intend to perform measurements in Sagada Mountain province, Laguna, or Iloilo. They have suggested that by focusing on performing experiments and observation (as far as elevation is concerned), I can perform either in Antipolo or at a high point in Laguna. For each site, I need to perform three distinct measurements and observations. My adviser and I should carefully plan my observation period and the area where the experiments will be performed.

PATENT SEARCH REVIEW - I haven't done any patent search review before; this is new to me. Performing one without conducting the specific parameters that need to be evaluated might consume a LOT OF TIME. Because I need to do this, I will proceed with the procurement procedure after I have done the review.

I told my colleagues and me that I plan to finish everything before the last quarter of the year approaches. I want to finish this rabbit hole as I am motivated; I don't want to stop since this might disrupt my momentum.

This week, after the proposal defense, I haven't done anything scientific-related except some occasional problem-solving that I do every lunch break. Maybe the right push will help me outgrow this problematic side of my manuscript and experiments this upcoming week.

Let's see how it will go!

[supremojohndee]

Article 1272 - ObliCon

Art. 1272. Whenever the private document in which the debt appears is found in the possession of the debtor, it shall be presumed that the creditor delivered it voluntarily, unless the contrary is proved.

This article refers to presumption of voluntary delivery.

Comglasco

v.

Santos Car Check

Facts:

Lease Agreement: On August 16, 2000, Santos Car Check Center Corporation (Santos) leased its showroom at 75 Delgado Street, Iloilo City to Comglasco Corporation (Comglasco) for five years.

Rental Terms: Monthly rental was PHP 60,000 for the first year, PHP 66,000 for the second year, and PHP 72,600 for the third through fifth years.

Pre-Termination: On October 4, 2001, Comglasco informed Santos it would pre-terminate the lease effective December 1, 2001. Santos refused, emphasizing the five-year contract term.

Vacating Premises: Despite refusal, Comglasco vacated the premises on January 15, 2002, and stopped paying rent.

Demand Letters: Santos sent several demand letters, all ignored by Comglasco, including a final one on September 15, 2003.

Breach of Contract Suit: Santos filed a suit for breach of contract on October 20, 2003. Summons and complaint were served on January 21, 2004.

Motion to Dismiss: Comglasco moved to dismiss the complaint for improper service, which the RTC dismissed, ordering new service of summons.

Answer and Judgment: Comglasco filed its Answer on June 28, 2004. Santos moved for a judgment on the pleadings, which RTC granted.

RTC Judgment: On August 18, 2004, RTC ruled in favor of Santos, ordering Comglasco to pay unpaid rentals, attorney's fees, litigation expenses, and exemplary damages.

Appeal: Comglasco appealed, and the CA affirmed the RTC's judgment but reduced attorney's fees and deleted awards for litigation expenses and exemplary damages.

Supreme Court Petition: Comglasco filed a petition for review with the Supreme Court.

Issues:

Whether or not the abrupt change in the political climate of the country afterthe EDSA Revolution and its poor financial condition rendered the performance of thelease contract impractical and inimical to the corporate survival of the petitioner?

Held:

No. In Philippine National Construction Corporation v. CA (PNCC), which alsoinvolves the termination of a lease of property by the lessee "due to financial, as well as

technical, difficulties,”

 the Court ruled:The obligation to pay rentals or deliver the thing in a contract of lease falls withinthe prestation "to give"; hence, it is not covered within the scope of Article 1266.At any rate, the unforeseen event and causes mentioned by petitioner are notthe legal or physical impossibilities contemplated in said article. Besides,petitioner failed to state specifically the circumstances brought about by "theabrupt change in the political climate in the country" except the allegedprevailing uncertainties in government policies on infrastructure project.

[thehungrykat1]

Kingsford Cafe is a Hidden Culinary Gem in Kingsford Hotel Manila

It had been a while since my last visit to Kingsford Cafe, so I was happy to be invited last week to rediscover this hidden culinary gem inside Kingsford Hotel Manila. I usually indulge in their themed weekend dinner buffets, but this time we were here to explore some of the unique and creative dishes on their a la carte menu.

Kingsford Hotel Manila is part of the growing lineup of homegrown Filipino hotel brands under Megaworld Hotels and Resorts. It’s located at Bagong Nayong Pilipino, just beside Okada Manila and right in the middle of the bustling Entertainment City. Since it's opening in late 2021 (Kingsford Café Opens Its Doors at Kingsford Hotel Manila), the hotel has been a popular choice for businessmen and travelers looking for a relaxing stay just minutes away from the NAIA airport terminals.

You can find Kingsford Café at the ground floor lobby serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. The café comes with a refreshing and relaxing ambiance. Its contemporary design and cozy interiors are complemented with beautiful wall art pieces.

The restaurant can accommodate up to 128 guests with dedicated seats available for alfresco dining. Guests may also dine privately with sectioned dining spaces ideal for intimate corporate events and other social gatherings.

We were delighted to once again meet Kingsford Café’s Executive Chef Angelo Chubby Timban, a well adorned champion in international cooking competitions and celebrated for his creativity and passion for the craft. Staying close to his roots, Chef Chubby’s dishes pay homage to a strong Filipino upbringing but redefined through modern European techniques alongside contemporary Asian executions. The concept is to celebrate the rich produce of the Philippines and its multicultural influences by featuring nostalgic local flavors to capture the heart of every guest.

Last year, Chef Chubby had created a very special Sampaguita Menu which features dishes inspired and infused with our national flower, the Sampaguita. This also includes Sampaguita beverages like the SaMaRRa (P320) on the left, a refreshing Sampaguita tea combined with mango juice, tarragon leaves, peppermint leaves, and vanilla extract. On the other hand, the Paraw Regatta (P280) is a cocktail named after the annual Iloilo sailboat festival featuring the Paraw. It comes with Jasmine tea, vodka, mango juice, blue curaçao, and grenadine.

It was then time to try some of the featured signature dishes in Kingsford Café's a la carte menu. I've always been amazed at Chef Chubby's presentation and flavors, but we were really surprised with the new lineup that looks more appropriate inside a five-star fine dining restaurant instead of a casual dining cafe.

We started with one of their bestsellers, the Kingsford Laksa (P300). This is a modern presentation of the Singaporean laksa with its creamy laksa broth poured over a medley of shrimp, bean sprouts, crisp miki noodles, young corn and straw mushrooms. It's a different experience from the traditional laksa, especially with the crispy noodles, but the overall flavors of the fragrant laksa are still very much present.

My favorite and best new discovery that afternoon was the Kare-Kareng Bagnet (P450). This lovely deconstructed Kare-kare dish comes with crispy fried pork belly doused in a rich peanut and annatto sauce. It also has steamed lowland vegetables and served with slow cooked ginamos.

I really loved the crunchy chicharron together with the juicy and savory pork belly. This is one of the best versions of Kare Kare I have ever tasted and I would gladly come back to Kingsford Cafe just for this alone.

We also wanted to sample some of their special Sampaguita Menu, so we ordered the Gambas Royale (P580). This dish has big pieces of prawn al ajillo presented with Lucban risotto, soffits, asparagus, sampaguita, and mango salsa. It's not your usual Spanish-type gambas as it has less of the garlicky flavors but is more savoury and balanced, especially with the risotto and vegetables.

On the other hand, the Bistek Tagalog (P500) is a twist on the traditional Filipino dish. This one comes with thick and fatty roasted beef belly with grilled cauliflower, roasted rustic potatoes, monggo and sampaguita caviar in a caramelized calamansi and lacuna jus sauce. I've never seen Bistek Tagalog served this way but we really enjoyed this thicker, meatier, and more flavorful version.

For desserts, we also tried two of their colorful Sampaguita items that really put a big smile on my face.

The Sakura Brazo de Mercedes (P300) is as pretty as they get. This has a mixed berry mousse cake on the bottom topped with a cherry micro sponge and chocolate branch with edible soil. Usually, you can only find this type of presentation in fine dining restaurants, so I was really impressed that they serve this here at a very reasonable price. Imagine going on a date and being served this dessert. You will really be going home happy.

But that's not all, because I was even more impressed with the Mango Sampaguita Cheesecake (P320). I have eaten so many cheesecakes before but this was one of the best versions I have ever tasted! This deconstructed cheesecake is made with Sampaguita cream cheese, mango jelly, blueberry, and edible soil. The sweet cheesecake tasted like my favorite Hokkaido milk, so I really loved finishing this splendid dish.

Kingsford Hotel Manila also has a few promotions in store for Father's Day. Show your love for Dad in the best way—through his stomach. Take him to a tasty food trip experience with a Weekend Dinner Buffet or a Father’s Day Buffet Lunch and bond over delectable food selections as endless as your conversations. Go up to the fifth floor pool area for a savory Chill and Grill, and chatter over unlimited drinks and a platter of grilled meats against a stunning backdrop of the city. Then end the day relaxed and stress-free with their cozy Deluxe Room, with a high-speed internet connection and a TV for a fun movie time–just the way dad likes it.

Moments are definitely priceless, and so is their Kingsford Beer Mug! Make the moment last with a souvenir that he can use for years, and get your dad’s seal of approval at no cost, as the Beer Mug comes free with the room package. The King of the House Package starts at P8,988 nett for 2 pax and includes an Overnight Stay for 2, Buffet Breakfast for 2, Weekend Buffet Dinner or Father’s Day Lunch for 2, Chill and Grill for Dad, and a free Kingsford Beer Mug for Dad. The package is available from June 14 to June 16, 2024 only.

We also took home some chocolates courtesy of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts which features eight different flavors representing eight of their outstanding local hotel brands. We would like to thank Lance Bermejo, Marketing Officer of Kingsford Hotel Manila, for inviting us back at Kingsford Cafe to try out these wonderful new dishes. Kingsford Cafe is one of the most underrated and best value-for-money hotel restaurants in the city, so make sure to drop and discover this hidden gem.

Kingsford Café

G/F Kingsford Hotel Manila, Bagong Nayong Pilipino, Entertainment City, Parañaque

8888-6388 / (0917) 8053585

www.kingsfordmanila.com

www.facebook.com/kingsfordmanila

[thxnews]

Alexie Mae Brooks Boosts Barangay Tourism

Could a beauty queen help transform local tourism? In Iloilo, the provincial government is banking on it. Crowned Miss Eco International Philippines 2025, Alexie Mae Brooks has been appointed as the ambassador for the "Turista sa Barangay" program, aimed at developing barangays into bustling community venues for tourism.  

Launching a New Tourism Initiative

The "Turista sa Barangay" program, announced by Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., is set to launch soon, with Brooks leading the charge. Defensor emphasized the importance of this program, highlighting its goal to turn barangays into hubs of tourism activities and points of care for tourists visiting Iloilo. "Congratulations to Alexie. Very timely that we have an ambassador for tourism. We want to institute Turista sa Barangay, a program to develop the barangay as a community venue for tourism events and activities," Defensor said.   The Role of Barangays in Tourism Barangays, as the smallest administrative divisions in the Philippines, are pivotal in this initiative. The plan involves preparing residents to serve as the front line for tourism, thereby creating livelihood opportunities and fostering community development. Defensor stated, "We engage the beneficiary as the front line. We want Alexie to be the front line here as we sell Iloilo in the new approach for our tourism." This initiative underscores the strategic shift towards community-based tourism, leveraging the unique cultural and natural assets of each barangay to attract visitors and stimulate economic growth.  

Alexie Mae Brooks: From Beauty Queen to Tourism Ambassador

Alexie Mae Brooks, a 22-year-old resident of Leon municipality, has a decorated pageant history. She represented Iloilo City in the Miss Universe Philippines pageant and was crowned Miss Iloilo during the 2024 Dinagyang Festival. Her new role as the "Turista sa Barangay" ambassador aligns her public presence with a cause close to her heart – promoting her home province.   The Cultural Significance of the Dinagyang Festival The Dinagyang Festival, where Brooks earned her Miss Iloilo title, is a cornerstone of Iloilo's cultural identity. Celebrated annually, it honors the Santo Niño (Holy Child Jesus) and commemorates the arrival of Malay settlers and their pact with the indigenous Ati people.   Religious and Cultural Celebrations The festival, originating in 1968, features vibrant street dancing, music, and performances by Ati tribe warriors. It blends religious devotion with cultural heritage, making it a profound expression of Ilonggo faith and identity.   Event Description Religious Significance Celebration honoring the Santo Niño, highlighting the devotion to Sto. Niño de Cebu. Cultural Significance Commemorates the pact between Malay settlers and indigenous Ati people. Major Highlights Ati Tribe Competition, Kasadyahan Festival, Miss Dinagyang pageant.  

Governor Defensor’s Vision

Governor Defensor's vision for "Turista sa Barangay" involves integrating these cultural elements into the tourism strategy, ensuring that visitors experience the rich heritage of Iloilo. Defensor noted, "We are working on the executive order and hope to sign it this weekend."   The Road Ahead for Iloilo’s Tourism The appointment of Alexie Mae Brooks as the "Turista sa Barangay" ambassador marks a significant step towards a more community-centric tourism model. Her influence and popularity are expected to draw attention to Iloilo’s diverse offerings, from its festivals to its local attractions.   A Bright Future for Barangay-Based Tourism With the "Turista sa Barangay" program, Iloilo is set to redefine its tourism landscape, focusing on grassroots involvement and showcasing its cultural richness. As Alexie Mae Brooks takes on her new role, the synergy between her ambassadorial duties and Iloilo’s tourism goals promises to create a lasting impact on the province's economic and cultural development.   Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency. Read the full article

[southeastasianarchaeology]

Controversy Over Demolition of Iloilo Central Market’s Art Deco Façade

NCCA investigates the legality of demolishing Iloilo Central Market's historic art deco facade amid safety concerns raised by Mayor Jerry Treñas. Heritage advocates worry about preserving the market’s cultural value. #Iloilo #demolition #NCCA #centralmark

via Panay News, 20 May 2024: The National Commission for Culture and the Arts is investigating the legality of demolishing the 80-year-old art deco facade of Iloilo’s Central Market. Heritage advocates are concerned about the preservation of the market’s historical value, while Mayor Jerry Treñas emphasizes public safety. The NCCA will review the validity of the demolition permits…

[calliopesink]

DepEd Denies “Heatstroke” Allegations Causing Deaths of Two Teachers

The Department of Education (DepEd) clarified in a statement on April 23, 2024, that there were no reported cases of teachers dying from heatstroke after reports of allegedly claiming that two teachers from Sta. Barbara, Iloilo had passed due to heatstroke while conducting classes.

A Facebook post from XFM Radyo Patrol Iloilo, a broadcasting outlet from Iloilo, delivered breaking news stating “2 Maestra patay sang na heatstroke samtang nagaklase” [2 teachers died due to heatstroke while conducting classes]. DepEd later conveyed its concern regarding the highly inaccurate and misleading nature of the post.

According to the Schools Division Office, it has been revealed that no teacher had been reported to have died due to heatstroke, specifically while teaching.

However, the official records assert that one of the teachers in Sta. Barbara passed away in February 2024, not because of a heatstroke but because of hypertensive cardiovascular disease, similarly another teacher passed away around March in the same year, but it was a result of an aneurysm. Both tragic events occurred in the teacher’s respective homes, outside of the school environment.

The Department of Education expressed their disappointment over the news outlets that sensationalise unfortunate deaths. “It is unfortunate that certain news outlets resort to sensationalising the deaths of our teachers at the expense of true and factual reporting.” DepEd stated.

The said government agency then declared their heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased teachers.

Written By: Justiniano Ceruma

Pubmat By: Cathleen Jasmine Marfil

[alchiest]

There was a boy who always wonders that he could strive his dreams. He's Vincent Estilloro, born in Iloilo City, Guimaras. He was a Lola's and Lolo's boy, a precious pearl in their eyes. He was the youngest of three siblings, a trio of different fates. He grew up in a broken family, a shattered mirror of his parents' love. His father was an alcoholic, a slave to the bottle. His mother was a worker, a slave to the city. His sister and brother stayed with their father, a pair of lost souls. He stayed with his grandmother, a ray of hope.

He had many good memories, like flowers in a garden. He also had some bad ones, like weeds among the roses. He moved to Manila when he was three, a new world of noise and lights awaits for him. He started school when he was five, a new world of books and friends. But soon he returned to Bacolod, a familiar world of peace and green. He continued his studies there, from grade 2 to grade 4.

In grade 4, his grandfather fell ill, a foot infection that spread like fire. Soon after, he passed away, at the age of 73. They mourned his loss, like a storm in their hearts. He neglected his studies, like a bird with broken wings. But his grandmother encouraged him, like a gentle breeze. She told him that he had to strive, like a seed that grows into a tree. He listened to her words, like a song that lifts his spirit. He focused on his studies, in honor of his grandfather. He finished grade 4, like a milestone in his journey.

On April 17, his mother called his grandmother, a voice from afar. She asked them to come back to Manila, a place where she had a home. He agreed to go with her, a chance to start anew. He finished his elementary education there, a step closer to his dreams. Fast forward to the year 2018, that's when he reunited with his siblings, a long-awaited reunion.

In 2023, they faced family problems, like waves that rocked their boat. His sister Efril got pregnant early, like a flower that bloomed too soon. His brother Reggie neglected his studies, like a fish that swam away from the school. On June 24, his beloved grandmother's 66th birthday, an important day in his life, she made a birthday wish for him, a gift from her heart. She said: "I hope to see you finish high school and college, and I wish for you to have a long life." He cried as she said this to him, a tear of gratitude and love. On June 27, his grandmother went back to their province, to fix their house where his grandfather and grandmother lived, a place of memories and history. And that's where his story ended.

Broken Wings, Healing Breeze