Philippines Guide
For Travelers, Expats and Pinoys
Film History Comes to Life at LVN Museum, part 2
Permanent display
It was during museum curator Bernard Fernandez’ birthday celebration that the idea of a permanent display was conceived. He was talking to the De Leons, and they recognized his effort and ordered the release of some money to begin the construction of a building to house the old costumes and props.
Having worked in the wardrobe department of LVN Studios since 1950, Fernandez has preserved the costumes quite remarkably. The colors are still bright, the lines distinct and the designs accurate. It’s a shame though that only a few are modeled by mannequins, such as costumes worn by Nida, Delia, Charito Solis and Manuel Conde.
Not equipped with modern means of preserving fabrics, Fernandez opts for naphthalene or mothballs, with an occasional sunning to dry out residual moisture and the fungi growth that accumulates. The air-conditioning helps to stabilize the temperature, the fluctuation of which can easily ruin delicate fabrics.
Photographs
Aside from the costumes ranging from flamboyant evening gowns and ornate armored suits, the museum also boasts of photographs of the studio’s stars, like Mila del Sol and Lou Salvador Jr., which line the walls. More photographs of directors and those showcasing scenes from movies fill up the nooks and crannies of the place, along with a few old movie posters and props like cameras.
Fernandez also showed me the old Max Factor makeup kits which include a formula they used for fake blood which was more realistic than what makeup artists use today. There are also worn-out shoes and boots and rusty military insignias. Encased in a glass cabinet is Charito Solis’ elaborate jewelry which she used in her movies. They were personally delivered by Charito’s sister after the actress’ death.
But it’s not only Charito Solis who gave pieces for display at the museum. Nida Blanca and Delia Razon also donated some of their dresses and photographs, though both women prefer to keep their own collections, perhaps for sentimental reasons. In fact, Nida has boxes of costumes and albums of photographs in her library.
Portrait
Museum curator Bernard Fernandez said that there are other potential acquisitions, but so far none has materialized yet. One is the life-size portrait of Leopoldo Salcedo done by an American painter. The painter was looking for an individual or an institution as the recipient, and the LVN Museum was one of those considered. But the plan was foiled by Salcedo’s death. Fernandez last saw the portrait at the star’s wake and didn’t dare ask for it, out of respect for the grieving family.
Another batch was made up of trunks of old stuff belonging to Rogelio de la Rosa, as promised by his wife. Unfortunately, Fernandez lost contact with her. Still another possible acquisition is the suitcase full of scripts currently in the possession of someone who worked as assistant director for actor-turned-director Gregorio Fernandez.
Makati Sightseeing Guide
Makati City is not just the heart of business and finance in the Philippines; it is also the home of some of the finest hotspots and entertainment centers in the country.
Makati sightseeing guide: religious centers
Some of the finest sights in the city are the churches and cathedrals. Among them are the Guadalupe Ruins, which was constructed in the early 1600s by the Spaniards. A contemporary of this church is the Saint Peter Church, whose main attraction is the papal tiara, symbolizing the Pope and Saint Peter himself.
Another popular religious shrine is the Sri Sri Radha Madhava which advocates the practice of yoga and meditation to attain peace of mind and wellness. It is situated in San Antonio Village and like the aforementioned churches, is very popular among local and foreign tourists.
Makati sightseeing guide: cultural sites
For those that want to experience a bit of culture, there are several places you can visit. The Ayala Museum is the repository of a vast collection of historical relics and collections from various epochs in Philippine history. The Museo ng Makati, meanwhile, is the home of artifacts and antiques that are a testament to the glorious past history of the city.
The Thomas Jefferson Cultural Center on the other hand, is the site to go to be updated on events concerning the relationship of the Philippines and the US. Since its establishment in 1945 it has also functioned as a stage for artists, local and foreign, to showcase their wares.
Makati sightseeing guide: art galleries
There are numerous art centers and exhibits that the artistically inclined can turn to. There is the Alliance Francaise Art Gallery off Gil Puyat Avenue, where the finest Filipino artists of today unveil their works of art; the Galeria Jupiter, on the other hand, features select Oriental artworks and also a varied mixture of Chinese antiques.
The Osmundo Gallery focuses mainly on the many artworks and handicraft of Filipino tribes, while the Luz Gallery concentrates its efforts on the antique works of various local artists.
Makati sightseeing guide: shopping centers
No Makati sightseeing guide will be complete without a rundown of the various malls and entertainment centers you can visit. At Ayala Center you will find an assortment of hotels, restaurants, movie houses, cultural centers and offices all around.
The main shopping malls there are Glorietta and Greenbelt. Both of these complexes host the best shopping centers in the country including SM, Landmark, Rustan’s and many more. Another popular shopping destination is Rockwell Center, which aside from the various malls and restaurants, is also known for its high rise condominium units and edifices.
What this Makati sighseeing guide has presented are just some of the places you can check out in the city. As you traverse its well maintained streets doubtless you will find more sights and sounds that will make your visit enjoyable.
Manila Education
As the capital city of the Philippines, people can expect to find some of the biggest and most prestigious educational institutions in Manila. These colleges and universities are part of the Manila education system that delivers superior quality education at highly reasonable rates. Enroll now and experience outstanding curricula and academic programs.
Far Eastern University
Situated along Recto Avenue, this university is one of the oldest in the country. Within the campus, students can find numerous structures including the Nursing Building, R. Papa Gym and Nicanor Reyes Hall. It is comprised of various globally competitive schools academic programs like the College of Computer Studies, Associate in Health Science Education as well as Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts. It also very proud of its several research centers such as the Center for Testing and Evaluation, Center for Teaching Excellence and Center for Studies on the Urban Environment.
University of the East
Located within the University Belt area, this university is a major part of the Manila education system that offers an impressive and extensive lineup of academic degree programs. These include nursing, computer technology and education. It also has engineering, dentistry and law. It also has an awesome lineup of graduate school programs such as Master in Information Management, Master of Science in Dentistry as well as Master in Public Administration. More importantly, it features world-class curricula for the College of Engineering, College of Arts and Sciences and College of Law.
Adamson University
This Catholic university is found within the area of San Marcelino in Ermita, Manila. It has a graduate school that offers Master of Science in Pharmacy, Master of Business Administration and Doctor of Philosophy in Education. Meanwhile, its College of Business Administration offers Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management, Bachelor of Science in Customs Administration and Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. For those who wish to enroll on its College of Engineering, they can go for the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. This institution is very proud of its numerous student organizations, some of which include Adamson University Chemical Society, Association of Industrial Engineers of the Philippines and Adamson University Computer Engineering Society.
De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde
Found along Taft Avenue, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde is another Catholic college that offers students wonderful learning opportunities. It boasts of extensive and globally competitive academic programs. It has the School of Professional and Continuing Education, School of Multidisciplinary Studies and School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management. Other choices include the School of Management and Information Technology, School of Design and Arts as well as the School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies.
Film History Comes to Life at LVN Museum, part 3
Small place
With all these great movie memorabilia in exhibit in LVN Museum, one can only marvel how such a small place can hold so many pieces. Bernard Fernandez, the museum curator, reveals that there are still more articles he wants to display but can’t due to lack of space. The need for a larger venue has been his main concern for sometime now. People who have visited the museum–film students, movie buffs, workshoppers and tourists–have expressed hope for a bigger place for such a unique museum. Fernandez says they should act fast, because at the age of 80, he is not getting any younger or stronger!
But in spite of the growing popularity and media coverage the museum has been enjoying, it has yet to be officially recognized by authorities. So far, as Fernandez said, the closest working relationship they have had with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts was when the NCCA borrowed Nida’s costumes for an exhibit.
The museum is also not yet featured in tourism brochures but the coverages of TV shows like “Balitang K,” “Cityline,” “Extra, Extra,” “Knowledge Power” and “Wake-up Call” make better advertisements as these reach more people.
Video documentation
In return for the interviews, Fernandez asked for copies of the tapes for video documentation, which can prove valuable in the future.
To prove the museum’s gradual introduction to mainstream popular culture, Fernandez recalls that a multinational food and beverage company attempted to borrow numerous pieces they planned to exhibit at the Glorietta. He declined when he saw the long list of pieces to be borrowed. He was even more adamant when he learned that the pieces would be out of their home for a year. The obvious care Fernandez devotes to the pieces is understandable, considering that any damage done is irreparable as they are all original and have become priceless in their own right. He also admits that one of his driving forces in maintaining the integrity of the museum is his gratitude to Doña Sisang for taking him as her ward. He reminds me that last Oct. 29, they celebrated the 123rd birth anniversary of the LVN matriarch. Indeed, there can be no other greater gift than to preserve her legacy.
National treasure
It is not difficult to see that the LVN Museum has the potential of becoming a national treasure we could be proud of. As such, it needs the care and help of all concerned Filipinos, if we want it to be carried over to the future.
Manila Travel Agents
Services Offered
Manila travel agents offer diverse travel packages which may include, but are not limited to sightseeing tours, airlines, cruise lines, holiday packages, car rentals, and hotel bookings.
The above mentioned services are primarily for tourists. Some Manila travel agents are also capable of catering to the needs of business travelers.
Because of the numerous different travel and business/commercial packages that travel agencies in the capital city offer, it is vital for travelers to search for an agency that will offer them the correct travel packages which will accommodate their needs.
Agency Locations
Finding the right agency from among the numerous Manila travel agents is not as hard as one may think. Many Manila travel agents are located either in the district of Ermita or Malate.
This makes it convenient for travelers to pick the right agency for their needs, since a lot of these agencies are within walking distance from each other.
For those who are interested in acquiring the services of a Manila travel agency, I have included a list of government certified agencies in no particular order, along with their contact numbers, the district they are located at, and the services they offer.
Ermita Agencies
Manila International Travels and Tours Incorporated is a travel agency in Ermita which offer travel/tours, travel bureaus, and air travel ticketing services. You can contact them at this phone number: +63(2)5218610.
Destination Travel (Philippines) Incorporated is an agency in Ermita that specializes in sightseeing tours. They can be reached at this number, +63(2)5253956.
Tourist Information Bureau, Incorporated is a travel agency/bureau located at Ermita. Their phone number is +63(2)5230424.
Laban Travel and Tours International, Incorporated is a travel agency/bureau in Ermita. You can contact them at this number, +63(2)5262022.
Malate Agencies
Interisland Travel and Tours is a travel agency in Malate which offers travel/tours packages, and aircraft charter and leasing services. Their phone number is +63(2)5038721.
Air Sea Land Tours is a travel agency which is located at Malate. Their contact number is +63(2)5269972.
Dacodion International Travel Corporation is an agency located at Malate. They offer travel/tours packages and travel assistance services. Their contact number is +63(2)3033184.
Silver Link International Travels and Tours Corp is a travel bureau/agency located at Malate. You can contact them at this number, +63(2)5240648.
Binondo Agencies
Sunhong Travel and Tours Philippines, Incorporated is a travel bureau/agency in Binondo. You can contact them at this number, +63(2)2429728.
West Gate Travel and Tours is a travel bureau/agency located at Binondo. Their contact number is +63(2)2420093.
These are but a few of the dozens of quality travel agencies in Manila. Each offers services that cater to different travel needs, so be sure to pick one that best suits your needs.
Manila Festivals and Events
Manila has several festivals and events calendared year-round. As a capital of the Philippines, it has a lot of different influences from all walks of life. These festivals border on religious, historical and Mardi Gras-like parties.
Feast Of The Black Nazarene
In early January, residents, devotees and tourist alike flock to the Quiapo Church in the district of Quiapo to celebrate the Feast of the Black Nazarene. The Black Nazarene is the patron saint of the district. It is believed that the wooden statue of the Black Nazarene is miraculous. Many devotees will attest to the fact that their lives have been turned to the better by their devotion to the image.
During the feast, the statue is paraded around the streets of Quiapo District on top of a carriage being pulled on ropes by thousands of male devotees. These activity borders on pandemonium as each male devotee try to jostle each other for a chance to get to the rope and pull the carriage. Many people believe that their petitions and wishes will be granted by the Black Nazarene if they get the chance to pull the statue.
While this is going on, white towels are thrown through and fro to marshals atop the carriage. Marshals will then wipe the statue with these towels. These towels are then believed to heal or bring luck to the owner.
Feast Of The Santo Nino
The districts of Pandacan and Tondo celebrate this feast. Different images of the Santo Nino or the child Jesus is paraded around the streets of the district. Each statue is as different from the next one. Aside from the traditional garb of the Santo Nino, one can see a Santo Nino image dressed in a basketball uniform or a television fictional character.
Along the streets where the images are paraded, people add a cheerful touch to the celebration by dancing. Again, the religious devotion of the people of Manila is evident in the Feast Of The Santo Nino.
Grand Marian Feast
During September, it is the turn of the people of the Instramuros district of Manila to celebrate. Various images of the Virgin Mary are paraded atop beautifully decorated floats in the streets of Instramuros. Manila Cathedral is the starting point and end point of the procession.
Manila Day
Every 24th of June, residents of the city celebrate the founding of the city. Every year, the city government declares this day a non-working holiday so that residents and visitors alike get the chance to participate in the celebration. Ceremonies and programs in Manila City Hall and Rizal Park are held.
Chinese New Year
Binondo, where Chinatown of Manila is located, celebrates this event every Chinese New Year. Visitors and local residents get the chance to see the Chinese influence in the district. Street parties, dragon dances, lion dances and fireworks litter the streets in jubilant celebration.
Manila Travel Guide
To get the most out of your time in the Philippine capital, you need to know which places are the best ones to visit. This Manila travel guide can be your roadmap to the finest tourist spots in the city.
Manila travel guide: historical landmarks
One of the up and coming tourist hotspots in the country is the Plaza San Luis. The structure consists of several houses that represent the different types of residences that were prevalent during Spanish times.
A historical marker that is not to be missed when in the city is Fort Santiago. This ancient fortress took over 150 years to build, and the focal point of the Spanish defense base. After serving as a sanctuary for wounded soldiers in World War II it has now been transformed into a park. Other historical buildings are the Palacio del Gobernador, the Bonifacio Shrine and Intramuros, where Fort Santiago is located.
Manila travel guide: buildings and edifices
The city is the home of several important and historically significant churches. This includes the Manila Cathedral, which is the residence of the Archdiocese of Manila. Another one is the famed San Agustin Church, which is renowned for its Baroque style, pipe organs and the pulpit.
Besides churches, other important buildings and structures are Malacanang Palace, the official residence of the Philippine President; the Malacanang Museum, a repository of priceless works and other historical memorabilia from various time periods. The Museo Pambata (Children’s Museum) was designed especially for educating schoolchildren, while the Bahay Tsinoy showcases a varied collection of antiques, pictures and relics of the Chinese and how their presence has influenced Philippine society.
Manila travel guide: parks
A Manila travel guide would not be a comprehensive one without making mention of the various parks and gardens in the area.
Among the most renowned of the many parks here is Rizal Park. Encompassing over 50 hectares, it is the location of the Rizal Monument, where the remains of the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, were interred. Another haven for tourists is Paco Park.
It is the place where various cultural performances are staged, and it is also a popular destination for weddings and other festivities. The Japanese Garden on the other hand, is not just a venue where one can appreciate a genuine garden done in the traditional Japanese style, but it is also symbolic of the partnership between the two nations.
There are a lot of areas you can visit in the Philippines, but as this Manila travel guide has shown, the capital city will remain, despite all the numerous upstart tourist spots coming out, a premiere destination for travelers and tourists.
Makati Hotel Guide
Makati is center of commerce, trade and economy in Manila and probably the entire Philippines. Makati has the most stylish, most expensive and newest places in the entire Philippines and it is the only city where you can get all the designer labels that you need. Part of stylish living in the Philippines is also stylish sleeping and where else can you sleep in than a luxury hotel in Makati? We will introduce the best hotels with this Makati Hotel Guide to you so that you will never settle for less in Makati, Philippines.
The most popular hotel in the Philippines is also the most popular hotel in the Makati Hotel Guide, namely the Makati Shangri-La Manila. The Makati Shangri-La Manila is a five star hotel that has the best service, more than 600 rooms and many amenities such as clubs, malls and spas. This hotel is located right in the middle of Makati, Philippines and the average room price ranges at around $230.
The next hotel in our Makati Hotel Guide is the Renaissance Makati Hotel. This hotel once again reflects world class in the Philippines. This place is located along the Greenbelt shopping mall which is known for its designer labels in the Philippines. The Renaissance Makati Hotel has a total of 598 available rooms and the service is fast and good. The average room rate for this hotel is $150 and the hotel has several amenities including a pool and business area.
The Makati Hotel Guide continues with the City Garden Hotel Makati. This smaller hotel has a total of 160 rooms and the service is very good and friendly. This hotel is perfect for travelling young people who like to stay in places for a short while. You can make use of the fitness rooms or simply marvel at the sight from your bedroom window out towards the entire Makati City. Makati is the upscale district in the Philippines and the City Garden Hotel Makati reflects exactly that. The average room rate is $75 and this is a great price for its value.
The last location of the Makati Hotel Guide in the Philippines is the Oxford Suites Makati Hotel. They have a total of 232 rooms and this hotel has great views from the rooms. Although it is located in the red light district of the Philippines, it still is a good business hotel to stay in. With an average price of $65 per night you cannot complain much.
The Makati Hotel Guide concludes here, but do not hesitate to venture out to find more hotels in Makati, Philippines that you can stay in.
Transportation in Metro Manila
Metro Manila, like any developed metropolis, has many different kinds of transportations. You can go from one place to another with ease. There are such varieties of transportation from the casual ones to the indigenous ones.
If it is your first time in Metro Manila it will not be difficult to get around. You can ride a cab and tell the driver where you want to go (generally they know all the routes) just make sure you check the meter once in a while ‘coz there are some bad guys who’s always on guard for chances of taking advantage. By the way, the plug down rate in a cab is Php30.00 and Php2.50 per additional km (FYI). And, If you want to escape traffic jam, there are trains connecting one city to another with a relatively low fare rate. matrix of fares are available at the stations. If you’re looking for comfort and security these transportation means are available. Or, if you want to feel like a Very-Impiortant-Person (VIP) there is a long list of rent-a-car service.
As soon as you get used to Manila, must try ride is the jeepney; an innovative, one of a kind means of transportation in the Philippines. They have certain routes and you’ll know their route by their sign board on front of the windshield. The minimum fare is Php7.00 per 7 km. and they usually have this fare matrix displayed inside the vehicle for reference.
For the adventurous people out there, we have what is called “calesa” which is a horse drawn cart that will bring you from one point to the other. You can usually find a calesa in Intramuros and Divisoria and along the busy streets of Manila. The usual minimum fare in a calesa is Php10.00 per person. You can bring three of your friends to come along. This transportation is usually ridden for strolling of tourists and for loading heavy shopping bags from the market place for the locals.
We also have the tri-bike or as affectionately known in the Philippines a “trike”. This is a motorbike with passenger side car. Usually it is used for transportation inside subdivisions or places with buildings with near proximity. Two to three people can be accommodated on the trike and the usual fare is Php7.00 to Php10.00 each. You can access nearby places with this transportation means without walking!
Well they say that walking is good for the health, no doubt about that but in case you get tired of it, the above listed means of transportation is a good guide for you. So now you know, enjoy the ride and explore the city. Ciao and good luck!
Enjoy Your Stay at the Makati Shangri-La
In the center of Makati City, Philippines, Makati Shangri-La stands as a hotel of luxury and comfort. The hotel is about 20 minutes away from the International and Domestic airports of Manila. Makati Shangri-La stands as an award-winning hotel in the Philippines.
Makati Shangri-La has 699 beautiful and spacious guestrooms and suites. The international restaurants in the hotel serve world-class food. The private lounges offer gracious services. All hotel guests are received in internet-ready rooms and have an entry to Makati Shangri-La’s spa and fitness center.
Due to Makati Shangri-La’s location, hotel guests are a few walks away from Makati’s shopping malls, bars, and restaurants, and business centers. This makes the hotel an ideal place to stay for business and family vacations for both local and foreign tourists.
Makati Shangri-La is situated in the corner of Ayala Avenue and Makati Avenue in the business district of Makati City, Philippines. On each floor, the Zen waterfalls welcome the hotel guests as they walk into comfortable and spacious rooms which ensures a good night’s sleep.
Makati Shangri-La rooms are furnished with a 21 inch TV and entertainment system. Cordless headphones are available upon request.
Makati Shangri-La’s Standard Room features in-house movie channels, satellite/cable television, broadband internet access, mini-bar, coffee/tea making facilities, electronic safe, in-room fax/printer/copier, voice mail, IDD telephone, full-size executive writing desk, separate shower and bath, Shangri-La toiletries, and hair dryers.
The Horizon Club of Makati Shangri-La has a much higher level of comfort, convenience, and service. The hotel room benefits include private check-in/check-out at the Horizon Club Lounge, full use of the Horizon Club lounge at daytime, checking out late, buffet breakfast, hors d’oeuvres, evening cocktails, daily international newspaper, suit pressing, DVD entertainment system, fruit juices, and coffee during the daytime, and concierge service.
Makati Shangri-La’s Suites let you live in a contemporary Asian spirit. The hotel’s standard Suite features include broadband internet access, satellite/cable LCD television, in-house movie channels, DVD entertainment system, mini-bar, and coffee/tea making facilities. Other Suite features are electronic safe, voice mail, fax/printer/copier, IDD telephone, executive writing desk, separate parlor or sitting area, kitchenette with separate dining area, hair dryer, Shangri-La toiletries, and Iron with Ironing Board.
The hotel room rates in Makati Shangri-La regularly starts at $225 USD. The hotel’s restaurants offer a unique blend of Western and Asian cuisine. The lounges and bars of Makati Shangri-La both have the relaxing and socializing atmosphere while enjoying the hotel’s refreshing beverages.
Makati Shangri-La has spa facilities and a health club that gives the hotel guests the opportunity to be physically fit, healthy and relaxed while staying at the hotel.
For comfort, leisure and relaxation while here in the Philippines, Makati Shangri-La can give you these. The Makati Shangri-La is the ideal place to stay whenever you visit the center of business in the Philippines.
