Dusit Thani Manila's opulent lobby. Photo courtesy of Agoda.com.

Awarded Hotel of the Year by the Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards, Dusit Thani Manila boasts of  538 newly-renovated guestrooms and suites, 11 meeting and banqueting rooms ideal for even up to 1,000 persons, comprehensive state-of-the art facilities, and seven specialty food and beverage outlets: Basix, Benjarong, Dusit Gourmet, Lobby Lounge, Pool Bar, Tosca and Umu.

Renewing its guests’ individual spirits and well-being, the hotel also offers two of Asia’s best recreational activities that both represent internationally-renowned brands, the DFiT Fitness Center and the Devarana Spa.

View of the hotel's pool area. Photo courtesy of Agoda.com.

Hotel’s site
Link to Agoda.com + Interaksyon site hotel page

Getting there
Dusit Thani Manila is situated in the heart of the Philippines’ premiere financial district and is located just 15 minutes away from the country’s major convention centers, 25 minutes from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and nearby shopping malls and entertainment centers. It is walking distance from the MRT.

Main dining room of Dusit Thani's newly renovated Club Lounge. Photo courtesy of Agoda.com.

What makes this hotel stand out
The Dusit Club Lounge is the most recent renovation of Dusit Thani Manila. The 900-sqm Club Lounge is on the topmost floor of the hotel. The entrance foyer is on the 16th floor where guests are welcomed by a clean open foyer with indoor landscape that flows into the area. A spiral staircase of wood, steel, and glass rises up to the main Club Lounge floor. The entrance foyer also features its own access elevator and a colorful modern painting mounted on the level of the stairs.

Aside from its great location, the Thai heritage perfectly matched with the geniality and impeccable hospitality of the Filipinos promises to deliver a unique experience for its guests.

The first for any club lounge in the city is the Silence Room, a unique Zen-inspired space built for meditation. Photo courtesy of Agoda.com.

Ongoing Promotion
Book now through August 31, 2013 with stay dates beginning today till August 31, 2013 and avail of one free night (if guest stays three nights, with check-in on a Friday). Available on www.agoda.com/interaksyon

What guests are saying
“This is my third time to this hotel, always a great reception and the staff is always excellent reflecting good management and Thai manners. The Dusit Thani Hotel is located in a central safe location, easy to reach, a lot of shopping and business venues. Rooms are very nice, and the buffet breakfast has a vast array of international food choices.
—Teri P, solo traveler from United States, May 2013

“We always stay at the Dusit Thani Manila Hotel whenever we travel to Manila. We feel so much comfortable here with friendly staff, clean room, and great buffet breakfast. Will surely recommend friends to stay here.”
—Nuttawan R, solo traveler from Thailand, May 2013

“Absolutely loved the professionalism and service at Dusit Thani. The cleanliness of the rooms and the friendliness of the staff were amazing. I have traveled extensively but I would say that was one of the best buffet breakfasts I have ever eaten at. Such a wide variety and so fresh.”
—Yvette H, couple from Australia, April 2013

Devarana Spa. Photo courtesy of Agoda.com.

IFEX 2013 Philippines gathers the best Philippine exporters from various regions as well as international food merchants. InterAksyon.com’s Lifestyle Section is a proud partner of the biggest food show in Southeast Asia. Here are some of the exhibitors you can find at the event ongoing till May 19, Sunday, at the SMEX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.

InterAksyon Lifestyle Section file photo.

Jesus said to his disciples, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always.

Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words; yet the word you hear is not mine but that of the Father who sent me.

I have told you this while I am with you. The Advocate, the Holy Spirit that the Father will send in my name—he will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.”
—John 14:15-16, 23b-2b

The Advocate is the Lord himself. The Advocate is the Spirit of God. It is the same God: the  Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The Triune, the Trinity, three in one. The Advocate will help us understand God if we only open our hearts to love to  hear His word.

Come Holy Spirit, come! The Christian faithful celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit commonly known as Pentecost Sunday, which is celebrated 50 days after Easter Sunday. In the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit is represented by a gentle breeze, a rushing wind, a dove, or tongues of fire. The Spirit is invisible as no one will see the Spirit that is why it is only represented by symbols that are visible to our senses. You will know that it is The Advocate as it is life-giving and life-nurturing Spirit. The Spirit of God is also the voice in our conscience, that sacred space in the very fibers of our hearts.

The Spirit of God sanctifies, hence, makes holy. We are washed by water and anointed by oil, thus we are born in water and the Holy Spirit. Every day and every moment of our lives, we are called to holiness and are asked to remain in Him. We are holy when we listen and do the Lord’s commandments in love.

The Advocate is sent by the Father to stay with us, as Jesus ascended to heaven and is seated at the right side of the Father, and as we believe that Jesus will come again in glory. In the gospel, Jesus reminded his disciples on what they should do. Today, if we are truthful with our proclamation that we love the Lord, it is only then that we believe and listen to Jesus’ words.  We should do what was commanded of us by Jesus himself and his disciples.

The Spirit of God enlightens us. The Advocate shares his light when our lives seem to be dim and blurred because of our sad or painful experiences. When we are in doubt and uncertain of things, events, and circumstances, the Advocate enlightens our mind so that we can make decisions rightly and correctly.  We call on the Advocate, pray for help, and breathe in the Spirit.

As a religious missionary, there are always situations and serious cases when you are asked to be firm and to make a decision. During such moments, I call on the Advocate to help me. I testify, the Advocate purifies my thoughts and makes things clearer as I make a discernment. During situations when you are asked to make a choice from the many options available, when possibilities and probabilities are right in front of you, call on the Advocate. Anytime and anywhere, you can call on the Spirit to be right there for you. The Advocate also protects and keeps you in the right track, when you sincerely and wholeheartedly call and seek Him.

Before making important and or lifetime decisions, I always pray to them. I pray for enlightenment and wisdom. As experienced, you will not be dismayed and discouraged as the Spirit of God would always be there for you. I recall the Holy Spirit to come. Come Holy Spirit, come.

When I decided to become a missionary and entered a religious order where I am presently a member, I called on the Advocate. When in a situation where I am to make a decision—whether or not I would apply for my profession of vows, diaconal, and priestly ordinations, take assignments and tasks, and involvements in the varied forms of pastoral ministry; I ask the Spirit of God to be my light and guide. And indeed He is always there for me. When you call on God, how will you get wrong?

To whom shall we go?  To whom shall we put our trust?  We only go and trust in the Lord. The disciples, Mary and the other women were in the upper room when they received the Spirit of God in the form of tongues of fire. Let us then be open to receive the Holy Spirit as we open our hearts to love. Because when we love, we believe and follow the Lord Jesus and do what He has commanded us to do.

We celebrate Pentecost.  We celebrate the coming of the Advocate, the Spirit of God. The Spirit of God only touches the authentic human spirit.  The Advocate is the one leading us and guiding us today in our Christian lives.  Likewise, the Holy Spirit is presently the one guiding and sanctifying the Church, the Church with Jesus as its cornerstone, and that which the Apostles had established and expanded. Thus, the  part of the creed will remind us of our Christian faith: “I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting Amen.”

Let us pause, pray and call on the Advocate, as we ask ourselves:

How do I express my love to the Lord and neighbor?  Do I keep Jesus’ word and do his commandments?

Have I allowed the Advocate (Holy Spirit) to guide me and lead me to the path towards God?

Have I grown as a human person in the grace of God?

Prayer:  Almighty and Ever-living God, we thank you for sending to us your Son where he restored our relationships broken by our arrogance and disobedience. The risen Christ had assured us of your Spirit who will continue to guide us and sanctify us your people. May we be constantly guided and led by the Spirit to do what is right and good, and with everything that our Lord Jesus had taught us. This we ask through Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Guests check out the latest food finds from the Philippines and Asia at the retail area of IFEX 2013. Photo by Analy Labor, InterAksyon.com.

IFEX Philippines 2013, the biggest gathering of Philippine exporters and international food entrepreneurs in Southeast Asia, gives retailers from other participating nations a chance to market their products for possible business ventures in the country.

Ongoing till Sunday, May 19, the event is open to the public. Here are some booths to check out for local and Asian food products.

Native chocolates by Cocoa Whoa Tableya. Photo by Analy Labor, InterAksyon.com.

1. Cocoa Whoa Tableya (Philippines). The native chocolates produced by Green Options a from Batangas, which is said to produce the finest cocoa in the country. Organically grown by local farmers, it comes with a quaint and biodegradable packaging. Processing also makes use of sustainable operations to guarantee zero-waste products. For inquiries, contact Green Options at (+63) 919-4009665 or (+632) 935-5768.

Healthy sweetener Coco Sugar. Photo by Analy Labor, InterAksyon.com.

2. Coco Sugar (Philippines). From Misamis Oriental, this healthy and natural alternative to artificial sweeteners is said to help prevent and reduce diabetes and serves as anti-oxidants. For inquiries, (+63) 917-7935410 or (+63 88) 850-3410.

Drink to your good health with Jindo Hongju, a traditional alcoholic drink from Korea. Photo by Analy Labor, InterAksyon.com.

3. Jindo Hongju (Korea). Nothing beats a glass of wine oozing with health benefits. Jindo Hongju, a traditional alcoholic drink from Korea, is exclusively produced on Jindo Island for the past 80 years. Jicho, a kind of ginseng used as a raw material for production, helps improve body circulation, eliminates menstrual odor for females, and prevents diseases. It comes in a rich juicy flavor and a soft fragrance. It has a 40 percent alcohol content, which can be minimized by mixing it with other drinks. Jindo Hongju is produced by Daedaero Farm Association Corporation in Korea. Contact them at (+82 61) 542-3399 or (+ 82 61) 542-2266.

Agapita E. Mercado, the woman behind Aging’s Special Food Delight, presents her various suman flavors. Photo by Analy Labor, InterAksyon.com.

4. Aging’s Suman Espesyal (Philippines). This four-year-old enterprise offers a delectable twist to traditional suman. Aging Mercado, the woman behind the popular brand has launched new products such as White Malagkit with Pinipig, and Ube and Leche Flan fillings; Black Malagkit with Banana fillings; and Malagkit with Brown Sugar and Ube and Leche Flan fillings. Aging’s Suman is handmade with their own recipe, by Aging Mercado. Aging’s Suman Espesyal can be bought from their own exclusive store in Pasig City and in Greenhills, Metro Manila.

Fruit fillings by DLA Naturals. Photo by Analy Labor, InterAksyon.com.

5. Fruit Fillings by DLA Naturals (Philippines). Indulge in export-quality fruit-based fillings, jams, and other premium bakery and pastry ingredients. Besides local fruits such as mangoes, DLA Naturals also uses imported fruits such as wild blueberries from Canada, and then processed locally. DLA Naturals is an international company with one of its factories in Subic, Zambales.

Kinabalu Handmade Chocolate from Sabah. Photo by Analy Labor, InterAksyon.com.

6. Kinabalu Handmade Chocolates (Sabah). Fruit-flavored chocolates are rich with flavors of durian, mango, and coconut. Its lively packaging showcases Sabah’s natural wonders. Don’t miss its booth when you go to the IFEX—a chocolate fountain gives guests a taste of their smooth chocolate. For details, contact Noorziah Laugan Terki at (+60 19) 860-3627 or send her an e-mail at kinabaluhc@gmail.com for your own fruit-flavored chocolates.

Cassava Crunch, glazed with caramelized sugar, is locally available in Davao. Photo by Analy Labor, InterAksyon.com.

7. Cassava Crunch (Philippines). A one-off appetizer, this Cassava Crunch is homemade in Digos, Davao. Cassava is fried until it reaches its peak of crispiness, then glazed with caramelized sugar. If you’re craving for something crunchy, go for Cassava Crunch. It is the latest product of Double “S” Food Products. Contact them at (+63) 946-8912047 or e-mail them at double _sbananachips@yahoo.com.

A meal by itself are Brunei’s filling Indi Daging and Indi Udang. Photo by Analy Labor, InterAksyon.com.

8. Indi Daging and Indi Udang (Brunei). Brunei’s own versions of our traditional suman, is unique on its own because it is frozen to preserve quality and then steamed before eating. It has two flavors to crave for: beef and shrimp. It is specially recommended for people who prefer a good diet since it can be eaten as a meal. Indi Daging (beef) and Indi Udang (shrimp) are products of Kelupis Pandar. For inquiries, contact Faridah Nur Atiyyah Osman at atiarania@yahoo.com.

• InterAksyon’s Lifestyle Section is a proud media partner of IFEX 2013, ongoing till May 19, Sunday, at the SMEX Convention Center in Pasay City.

iPad with retina display. Image source: http://www1.smart.com.ph

May 18, 2013—Wireless leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) today announced it is now offering fourth generation iPad with Wi-Fi + Cellular and iPad mini with Wi-Fi + Cellular.

Smart is offering these new iPads with a range of attractive data plans that allow customers to connect to its fast Smart LTE network at speeds of up to 42Mbps.

The fourth generation iPad features a 9.7-inch Retina display, new Apple-designed A6X chip, FaceTime HD camera and ultrafast wireless performance. iPad mini is a completely new iPad design that is 23 percent thinner and 53 percent lighter than the third generation iPad, features a stunning 7.9-inch Multi-Touch display, FaceTime HD and 5 megapixel iSight cameras, ultrafast wireless performance and 10 hours of battery life. Both fourth generation iPad and iPad mini come with iOS 6, the world’s most advanced mobile operating system with over 200 new features.

Customers can buy the new iP

Celebrate International Museum Day this Saturday with free admission on museums around Manila.

If you happen to be looking for a free treat this weekend, you may opt to visit museums for they will have free admissions as part of the celebration of International Museum Day on May 18, 2013.

Organized by the International Council of Museums (ICOM), International Museum Day is annually celebrated worldwide since 1977 in order to raise awareness on how important museums are in the development of society.

According to ICOM, there are more than 30,000 museums getting ready to celebrate the event in around 100 countries on the five continents this year.

The theme for this year is ”Museums (Memory + Creativity) = Social Change,” which seeks to show the richness of the historical heritage being preserved  and displayed by museums.

In the Philippines, various museums and ICOM Philippines will take part in this international celebration. National Museum announced that on May 18, the admission is free at the Museum of the Filipino People, National Planetarium and the National Art Gallery from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Image sourced from National Museum's Facebook page.

Ayala Museum, Lopez Museum and Metropolitan Museum of Manila also announced a free admission on the same day.

Image sourced from Heritage Conservation Society Youth's Facebook page.

At the Lopez Museum, one can experience their ongoing exhibit entitled “Grounded,” which deals  with the position of the museum as a cultural institution–an exhibit which is also in line with the celebration of National Heritage Month this May.

Meanwhile, ICOM Philippines will hold a forum on May 25-26, 2013 at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB). The forum will involve topics about the role of museums in intergenerational dialogue, innovative disaster responses in museum context, museum and audience development, adopting innovative conservation practices, and museum communications and new media.

For more information, visit http://network.icom.museum/icom-philippines/events/upcoming-events/

Around 3,000 visitors flocked the SMX Convention Center at the opening of IFEX 2013 on May 16. Photo by Teddy Pelaez, InterAksyon.com.

Composed of more than 7,000 islands, each having its unique agricultural products, tastes and a rich tradition of making food, the Philippines truly offers various cuisines and food products that is distinctive from each other.

In the past years, the Filipino’s taste and dishes like that of adobo have become popular in the international scene. The Philippines is also recognized as a top exporter of fresh and processed fish products as well as fresh fruits like bananas, pineapples and mangoes.

Adding to this reputation and continuing to introduce the Filipino taste and unique food products to the world is the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines—the biggest export-oriented trade food show in the country that showcases Asia’s best ethnic and specialty foods with a special focus on the Philippines’ best unique food products.

In this year’s IFEX Philippines, held from May 16-19, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), aims to strengthen the country’s positioning as an ideal sourcing destination for top-quality food products.

With 700 exhibitors from all over the country (plus over a 100 foreign exhibitors), the Philippines is on its way to share the best of its food and beverage products to the world.

Here are just 10 of the interesting food products we found at IFEX 2013.

Coffee products from the different provinces of the Philippines exhibited by Philippine Coffee Alliance, an initiative of Bote Central. Photo by Teddy Pelaez, InterAksyon.com.

1. Alamid Coffee by Bote Central
Bote Central is a company that supports Philippine-grown coffees such as the Alamid, Liberica and Robusta. It also supports local farmers producing coffee by working directly with them. Alamid coffee, one of the most expensive and sought after coffee in the world, made from the wild civet (Paradoxorus Philippinensis) droppings, is one of the best products of Bote Central being exported and distributed to other countries like Japan, Taiwan, Korea, Australia, Germany and the US.

Colorful fruit-flavored lambanog made by Dory's Distillery. Photo by Romsanne Ortiguero, InterAksyon.com.

2. Lambalites by Dory’s Distillery
Dory’s distillery takes pride in making lambanog—a coconut-based alcoholic drink primarily produced in their place, the Quezon province. The company wants to make lambanog known not only in the Philippines but to the whole world as well.

Their product, which they call “lambalites,” is a recreation of the traditional lambanog infused with flavors such as  strawberry, blackberry, melon, and bubblegum. The lambanog products are being exported to Guam, Korea and the US. It is also locally available at Kultura stores.

Packaged frozen turon by Sagrex Foods Inc. Photo by Teddy Pelaez, InterAksyon.com.

3. Frozen Turon by Sagrex Foods Inc.
An agri-based company in Southern Philippines, Sagrex focuses on the production and export of food products made from Philippine native bananas called saba. Their main products are microwavable bananas, banana rolls and banana fries. Sagrex exports their products since 2005 in countries like Canada, Australia and US.

One their distinct products is the frozen turon that has a shelf life of 18- 24 months. With this, the turon, a popular local delicacy commonly being peddled on the streets are now being exported and can be tasted in other countries.

Bottled tropical fruit jams by Sun Q Technical Trading Co. Photo by Teddy Pelaez, InterAksyon.com.

4.  Tropical Fruit Jams by Sun Q Technical Trading Co.
Sun Q produces jams made from local tropical fruits abundant in the southern Philippines, such as dragon fruit, marang, mango, tomato, pineapple, papaya, soursop, durian and jackfruit.  Their products use natural coconut sweetener that is said to have medicinal properties. Sun Q exports their products to Japan and Korea.

Federico's Island Wine owner Federico Barredo with his creations. Photo by Teddy Pelaez, InterAksyon.com.

5. Federico’s Island Wine
Federico Barredo, the owner, is a research plant pathologist and microbiologist, whose passion other than sugarcane research is producing wine. He uses local fruits like bignay, duhat and pineapple in making wines. Wines made up of bignay are popular in various provinces but what makes Federico’s wines different is the competitive, classy packaging. Barredo is looking into the possibility of exporting his products in the future.

Bagoong powder and cubes created by Sagring's Products. Photo by Romsanne Ortiguero, InterAksyon.com.

6. Bagoong Powder and Cubes by Saring’s Products
Saring’s Products sells bottled bagoong or sauteed shrimp paste and other shrimp paste-based products.

Bottled shrimp paste has been a popular export product however, Saring’s products offer new varieties like bagoong powder and bagoong cubes that are handier and more convenient to use. The powder and cubes can be used to add flavoring to any dishes. The owner looks forward to exporting her products in the future.

Flavored fish crackers by Santory Industrial Marketing Corp. Photo by Teddy Pelaez, InterAksyon.com.

7. Flavored fish crackers by Santory Industrial Marketing Corp.
Santory is a snack food manufacturing corporation exporting crackers made from rice and wheat with added savory flavorings. Among its specialties is ready-to-fry and ready-to-eat crackers.

A Filipino favorite, the plain fish crackers we used to know has now evolved and being produced with different flavors such as Shrimp, Fish, Hot and Spicy, Squid, Onion and Garlic. Santory fish crackers are being exported to Dubai, Jedah, and Saudi Arabia.

Healthy corn coffee products by Sunrise Corn Coffee. Photo by Teddy Pelaez, InterAksyon.com.

8. Corn Coffee by Sunrise Corn Coffee
Sunrise Corn Coffee produces coffee from organic corns grown in Agusan Del Sur. The corn coffee is a healthy alternative from the usual coffee being consumed because it has no caffeine. The coffee is also said to contain no cholesterol and is high in fiber. Corn coffee is currently being exported to Malaysia and Middle East countries like Dubai.

Various calamansi products exhibited by the Philippine Calamansi Association Inc. Photo by Teddy Pelaez, InterAksyon.com.

9. Calamansi Products by Philippine Calamansi Association Inc.
Philippine Calamansi Association Inc. is composed of different companies producing products with calamansi as a main ingredient.

Calamansi has been an important ingredient in a Filipino’s typical meal as it is used as a juice drink or as part of a marinade, a dish or a dip. With various calamansi-based products like concentrates, purées, jellies, jams and powders, the use of this local citrus fruit has evolved and became varied. Its taste is also being introduced to countries which is more familiar with the taste of lemon and lime as these products are being exported to the US, New Zealand, Singapore and Korea.

Packaged tahong and vegetable chips by Ocean Fresh. Photo sourced from Ocean Fresh's Facebook page.

10. Tahong and Vegetable Chips by Ocean Fresh
Ocean Fresh makes healthy snacks, usually crunchy crackers from mussels, herbs and vegetables. Their best seller is the tahong (mussel) chips which are naturally processed and has no additives or preservatives. The texture and taste is quite similar to familiar crackers but undoubtedly a healthier alternative.

Ocean Fresh also makes crackers made out of locally abundant vegetables like bitter gourd, carrots, garlic, ginger, squash, turmeric and onion. They also produce crackers made from leafy vegetables like saluyot, sambong, lagundi and malunggay, saluyot.

• InterAksyon.com’s Lifestyle Section is a proud media partner of IFEX 2013, ongoing till May 19, 2013.

Local and foreign food exhibitors showcased the best of their products during the IFEX 2013 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Photo by Teddy Pelaez, InterAksyon.com.

The various foods and raw products of the Philippines as well as the flavors of neighboring Asian countries can be savored in one roof at the ongoing International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines. The four-day food trade show opened Friday, May 16, and will run till Sunday, May 19, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

IFEX, known as the biggest and most respected export-oriented food show in the country, is on its ninth edition and features Asia’s best ethnic and specialty food like tropical fruits and vegetables, fresh seafoods, as well as various natural and organic food products.

The event occupies the whole convention center with around 650 local and foreign exhibitors. Participants include the Philippines’ biggest food brands and Asia’s leading food companies. The show has gone international as it features food products from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, Indonesia, Korea, Sabah, Singapore and Taiwan.

IFEX also features free seminars on market developments and innovation in the food industry. Another highlight of the event is the Culinary Craft Spot wherein food artisans demonstrat the making of traditional delicacies such as suman, Ilocos empanada, and pastillas.

Philippines as a food destination
Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), IFEX aims to strengthen the country’s positioning as an ideal sourcing destination for top-quality food products.

“Through IFEX Philippines, we want to establish the Philippines as Asia’s top-of-mind destination for quality food and beverage products,” says CITEM executive director Rosvi Gaetos.

“It is to promote our Philippine foods to the world. This is an export-oriented event wherein we are featuring the small medium enterprises that are targeting the world as their market for their products. It’s a developmental program of the government, the Department of Trade and Industry, to help our food sector and food manufacturers to capture a slice of the global market,” IFEX project director Leah Ocampo said.

From left, DTI undersecretary Ponciano Manalo Jr., Department of Agriculture secretary Proceso Alcala, DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo and CITEM executive director Rosvi Gaetos toast to the successful opening of IFEX 2013 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, May 16, 2013. Photo by Teddy Pelaez, InterAksyon.com.

Meanwhile DTI Undersecretary Ponciano Manalo Jr., expressed optimism in the Philippines as on its way to becoming a top destination for food. “Malapit na sa tingin ko, kailangan kasi niyan (it is on its way and what it needs is) promotion. Hindi naman pwedeng sabihin na tayo na yung top pero madaling sabihin na (we cannot say that we are on the top but we can say that) we are striving to get there at saka yung (and the) Filipino food, nakita niyo naman na maraming chefs dito, maraming nag-aaral ng (as you can see, there are a lot of chefs, there are those who study) culinary arts. There’s a very strong effort by the industry to be really good and to really excel. I think that’s the good news about the food industry here,” he said.

Ocampo added that the Philippines can also be developed as the future transshipment hub as it is strategically located within Southeast Asia with Manila being a few hours plane ride away from major Asian destinations like Bangkok, Beijing, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Singapore and Tokyo.

Giving importance to SMEs
Meanwhile, the importance of small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) was also highlighted by the event by partnering with local SMEs.

According to Ponciano, food is one of the country’s biggest categories when it comes to exporting fresh items especially with leading export products like Cavendish bananas, pineapples, and coconut.

“We want to diversify our exports. We want to find other areas where we can export and make it bigger so that our economic growth will be more widespread. The SMEs is the economic model for growth in Asia and around the world, so iyon yung sinusundan natin (that is what we are trying to follow). Iyon yung ating (that is our) thrust and that’s why the president is focusing around that area because he understands that the economic model works,” Ponciano said.

“Na-elevate din natin yung (we have elevated the) level of packaging na nakikita niyo dito (that you can see here) to export quality. We still have to do work with many but still, we are very happy, it’s heartwarming because what you see here started from small scale industry,” he added.

• InterAksyon.com is a proud media partner of IFEX 2013, ongoing through May 19 at the SMEX Convention Center in Pasay City. 

http://www.pinoyfitness.com

May 17, Saturday
Ride of Silence Philippines
7 a.m.
Marikina Freedom Park
Marikina City, Metro Manila
Be a cyclist and an advocate for a day by joining the Ride of Silence. The event aims to honor fallen cyclists, promote road safety, and to make a difference. Those who join will be riding their bicycles from Marikina to San Mateo, Rizal at a pace not more than 12 meters per hour as a safe and responsible response to the dangers faced by cyclists on the road. Besides the free registration, Caribee discount coupons will also be given away.

For more information, contact (+63) 917-5533261 or (+63) 928-3900039.

Special suman by Aging's, filled with local desserts like leche flan are among the local finds to try at the ongoing IFEX at SMEX.

IFEX Philippines
Ongoing through May 19
SMX Covention Center
Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City
Attend the biggest food trade in the country, the International Food Exhibition Philippines (IFEX) and indulge in the latest foodie finds. Non-stop food sampling, seminars, cooking demos and competitions from more than 600 local and international exhibitors will take part on the event. For a more global flavor to IFEX Philippines, will also feature various food exhibitors from the US and Southeast Asia.

For more information on, visit www.ifexphilippines.com or www.facebook.com/ifexphilippines.

Blush and Zap are among the brands expected to join the Warehouse Sale at SM Megamall.

SM Kids Warehouse Sale
Ongoing through May 19
10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
SM Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall
EDSA cor Julia Vargas Avenue
Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila
Treat your kids to the biggest summer sale of the year at SM Megamall. Give them the chance to grab their back-to-school gears, with discounts for up to 50% off on selected items. SM Kids Fashion includes a wide range of brands namely Blush, Justeez, Boys Got Style, Little Prinze, Zap, and a lot more.

The Temper Trap, Australian-based indie band best known for their upbeat tracks, is among the performers at Wanderland 2013.

Wanderland 2013
11 a.m.
Globe Circuit Events Ground
A.P. Reyes Ave. cor. Hipodromo Sts.
Makati City, Metro Manila
Local and foreign indie pop and indie rock bands come together for Wanderland 2013, the first of its kind in the country, and the first major concert at Globe Circuit Events Ground in Makati.

For ticket inquiries, contact Ticketnet at (+632) 911-5555, Ticketworld at (+632) 891-9999, or SM Tickets at (+632) 470-2222.

May 19, Sunday
DSAP Fun Run
5 a.m.
Rajah Sulayman, Roxas Blvd
Manila
DSAP Fun Run, sponsored by Drugstores Association of the Philippines, serves as an income generating project for the organization’s annual medical mission. This year’s beneficiary is the Federation of Senior Citizens Association of the Philippines.

Registration partners include CME Partner, Inc., Shakey’s, and Manila Sports Council Association. For more information, call (63917)577-2268, or visit http://siguecorrer.com.

Learn how to create beautiful crochet items with Gantsilyo Guru's Trey Ajusto. Photo sourced from Gantsilyo Guru's Facebook site.

Crochet Workshop for Beginners with the Gantsilyo Guru
2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The Function Room, Handuraw Pizza Place
Gorordo Avenue, Cebu City
To Cebuanos out there, exercise your hands and creativity as Gantsilyo Guru, Trey Ajusto, will be giving a fun and exciting crochet workshop for beginners. Participants who join will be given a crochet kit, including yarns in different colors, stitch patterns, and hooks.

Details and registration form is available at http://www.gantsilyoguru.com/2013/03/wohooo-gantsilyo-guru-in-cebu.html.

The HSN6 made even hotter with Mika, AJ, and Jhaszm of Repsol Babes Philippines, along with Michael Nathan Marquez.

Bazooka Rocks
3 p.m
SM Skydome, SM North EDSA
Rock on and join the launching party for the preparation for one of the biggest rock festivals in the countries. It’s a totally unique experience in rock and roll and it’s chalk full of the most wanted pop punk and hard rock sensations in the world! Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.bazookarocks.com/.

HSN6 (Hotter Summer Nights 6) Car Show
5 p.m.
IMAX Open Parking, SM Mall of Asia
Jose Diokno Blvd., Pasay City
Here’s to a summer night made even hotter with the most exciting car show by Bumper To Bumper. Get awed by fancy cars, enjoy an R&B party, and a drive-in movie showing as well. A must-go for the guys. For more information, visit http://www.facebook.com/b2bcarshow

Rock of 80′s
7 p.m.
Bar 360, Resorts World Manila
Newport Boulevard, Newport City, Pasay City
Experience world-class performances as Resorts World Manila brings you a night of BMX bikes, roller skates, and leather jackets, all in one show. Audiences will be amazed with jaw-dropping performances of hand balancing act by Andrey Tsaplin of Russia, a dance performance by ballroom champions Maxim and Kate of Belarus, roller skate act by Duo Fantasy from Russia, and many other performers.

For more information, visit http://www.rwmanila.com/ or contact (+632) 908-3333.

Native rice cakes and hot chocolate prepared the traditional way at Choco-late de Batirol. Chow Buzz photos for InterAksyon.com.

Choco-late de Batirol
This bustling garden hut, located in the middle of Camp John Hay’s Igorot Park, takes pride in actively preserving Philippine culinary traditions. In particular, it still uses the batirol, a wooden implement that is traditionally used to mix hot chocolate (made from chocolate tablea or tablets). Enjoy a cup of one of its special hot chocolate blends, with an order of suman sa lihia, topped with a generous serving of grated coconut and muscovado sugar, or its equally tasty version of turon de langka. A limited menu of savory fare is also available, if you are not in the mood for something sweet.

• Choco-late de Batirol’s Baguio branch is located at Igorot Park inside Camp John Hay.

At Cafe by the Ruins, an artist's haven that complements its creative take on native cuisine. Chow Buzz photos for InterAksyon.com.

Café by the Ruins
Now on its 25th year of service, this well-known Baguio dining institution and famous local artist’s haunt, still manages to maintain its rustic charm, despite losing its once fabulous city view to urban overdevelopment. This restaurant focuses on the use of natural and local ingredients from the region, making it the perfect place to let go of the city’s ubiquitous raisin bread and trade it for Café by the Ruins’ baked-on-the-premises kamote bread. These freshly baked loaves are best enjoyed with either a generous serving of kesong puti, made from extra creamy carabao’s milk, or one of the café’s homemade spreads, and a cup of freshly brewed Benguet coffee.

• Cafe by the Ruins is located at 23 Chuntug Street (in front of City Hall), Baguio City.

Casual dining setting at Canto. Chow Buzz photo for InterAksyon.com.

Canto at Ketchup Community
Get your classic burger-and-fries and bbq ribs fix at Canto, one out of five restaurants, that is part of a new dining concept called Ketchup Food Community. This casual dining space located along Wright Park aims to provide a first-rate, but reasonably priced casual outdoor dining destination that also serves as a venue to promote homegrown local businesses. Located between these five restaurants is a central open space that is perfect for small casual events, outdoor parties, and mini-concerts.

• Canto is located inside the Ketchup Food Community, along Wright Park on Romulo Drive, Baguio City.

Know of a good foodie joint in Baguio? Share some of your own Baguio favorites with Chow Buzz via the comments box below or by e-mail at chowhoundmanila@gmail.com