Anything about nature...
Beach, hiking, animals, plants...
The rule is...is must have been taken by yourself, and not not anybody else's collection:D

To start off...here's a photo of the beach that serves as the headquarter (?) of Philippine Windsurfer's Federation. I'm not sure with the name tho.Can Mhe-Ann correct me pls?
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid147/p3613fb6a6e45e04fda5064ede2d2b8de/f6350dc4.jpg

amazingly, this is the very same resort where Edmund took his sunset photos. I was only able to get sunrise photos since we missed the sunset.

Sunrise
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid147/p3d29bceaa0939f180f25659f2a5de450/f6350e48.jpg

And the white sand beach one boat ride away from the resort's shores
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid147/p6625b1fd18ec46a2cff7962782242183/f6350dd0.jpg

Philippine Boardsailing Federation. :) I really love the second photo.

boardsailing? isn't that the surfboard with the sails? ie windsurfing? :?

yes, board with sails. big sails. You can do windsurfing, scuba diving, etc.

delete.

Pics of Mt. Makiling (as seen from inside our building):
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid155/p7b2babb8dfe67d8a19e395d71890ab1c/f557e211.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid155/p5032a168fd9646087b80eaca4fa80153/f557e210.jpg

Where's your building located? :) I like how you framed the photo with that cloud hovering over Mt. Makiling. :okay:

Here's some pictures I have of Guimaras Island ...


http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid155/pded731ad09ab52b8b97c3c643179a91b/f555451b.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid155/p639a74dfbcd3364619f98ed47f493b33/f555451a.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid155/p51cdfc083fccb598a9f5e9c92181a5f0/f5554519.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid155/p834869f8014907888c7ef000c634e446/f5554518.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid155/pc9a34690cbd7b03a0ad0751fb87ea6bd/f5554517.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid155/pd519c875e1fd2dc6808bfdd5f2cd2b64/f5554515.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid155/p9f75a469ff691553d017586533e1eec8/f5554513.jpg

wondering about this pic...

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid155/p834869f8014907888c7ef000c634e446/f5554518.jpg

/\ Forgive me for this but the first thought that came to my mind when I saw that photos was "is that what a tsunami victim looks like?" :lol: I know it's sick but that's what my crazy brain blurted out first! :crazy:

Not really I believe it's more of the debris and the water rather than sand....

To me it looks like a Buddha in the sand. :D

wow! ganda pala ng Guimaras. Aside from the world class mango and beaches, what else is Guimaras proud of?

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wow! ganda talaga ng tagaytay. kaya lang mejo brown & eroded na bundok sa caleruega

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wondering about this pic...

It was a sculpture of our friend who failed to go with us coz they had exams :)

wow! nice to see that Tagaytay pics, been there many times. :)

the Caleregua pics are awesome!! :eek2: the place can be a nice setting for movies... or mtv's... basta... ang ganda!!

wow... I definitely agree. Caleregua is indeed beautiful. is it near Tagaytay...?

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Indeed...Tagaytay, Caleruega is beautiful:okay: Are there any high end hotels over there?

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i don't know if this is the right thread for discussing bout zoo.........

i was just wondering if any of you've been to NINOY AQUINO PARKS AND WILDLIFE CENTER.........

i've recently been going to zoos.......and i've seen that they have already renovated this zoo-park-recreation area near the quezon memorial circle........they've done phase 1 and 2 already........phase 3 and 4 are in limbo due to lack of funds.........

anyway, if this might interest you........the phase 1 and 2 were sponsored by virtually all major philippine corporation: namely SMC, SM, Anglo-something, megaworld, etc etc........

one more thing.........this place is big, it's 24-30 ha.......it has a natural spring-fed lagoon(about 3-4 ha)......too bad it's full potential can't be realized

^Glad to hear the WIldlife's restoration. It used to be well maintained when I was a kid. We were there almost every weekend since I just lived nearby in Diliman. There were all kinds of animals including a bear called Bruno, my favorite. There was also a small marine center and the entrance had a mini-bridge in the middle of the pond and inside huge turtles and many big aquariums. There's also a playground with swings and barracks. Later on the animals disappeared and it turned into a just a park that was basically a botanical garden :?. Only consolation nobody cut the trees.

i've recently been going to zoos.......and i've seen that they have already renovated this zoo-park-recreation area near the quezon memorial circle........they've done phase 1 and 2 already........phase 3 and 4 are in limbo due to lack of funds.........

I know this sounds pessimistic....but what else is new? Projects there in the Philippines seems to run out of funds a lot. :(

:eek: @ Canyon Woods...that is quite exclusive.

I thought Canyon Woods was more of a golf and country club where they sell shares to (rich) people and not really a resort in the traditional sense of the word. It is pretty nice. I like it a little better than Tagaytay Highlands which is over the top. Canyon Woods is a little more sedate and less extravagant.

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^Glad to hear the WIldlife's restoration. It used to be well maintained when I was a kid. We were there almost every weekend since I just lived nearby in Diliman. There were all kinds of animals including a bear called Bruno, my favorite. There was also a small marine center and the entrance had a mini-bridge in the middle of the pond and inside huge turtles and many big aquariums. There's also a playground with swings and barracks. Later on the animals disappeared and it turned into a just a park that was basically a botanical garden :?. Only consolation nobody cut the trees.
hmm.........sadly, there's no more marine center there.....

btw, since you mention turtles........i want to share you this.......one of the new development at the phase 1&2 was a turtle pond........then i wonder why there weren't any........the caretakers replied that they have to keep the turtles back to the repository because many people sneak them out then sell them for 150 pesos just across the streets in the circle........grabe

and also, there seems to be no big turtles in the big lagoon

I know this sounds pessimistic....but what else is new? Projects there in the Philippines seems to run out of funds a lot. :(
yeah........but what astounds me is that there actually exist a big protected mini forest park-zoo area near the heart of the metropolis

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hmm.........sadly, there's no more marine center there.....

btw, since you mention turtles........i want to share you this.......one of the new development at the phase 1&2 was a turtle pond........then i wonder why there weren't any........the caretakers replied that they have to keep the turtles back to the repository because many people sneak them out then sell them for 150 pesos just across the streets in the circle........grabe

and also, there seems to be no big turtles in the big lagoon

Are they giant turtles? The turtles in the marine center were huge, like “Pawikan”.

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^What???Ninanakaw nila ang mga turtles at binebenta ng about 2 euros lang? Ang babastos, mga wala talagang kultura ang mga yan. Dapat kasi may nagbabantay o at gawan ng multa pag nahuli ang nagnakaw.

magwawala na naman mga Green Peace Movement members nyan.

Are they giant turtles? The turtles in the marine center were huge, like “Pawikan”.
actually, i haven't noticed the so called marine center..........san ba banda yun?

they said they once had galapagos turtle there but it's already dead

^What???Ninanakaw nila ang mga turtles at binebenta ng about 2 euros lang? Ang babastos, mga wala talagang kultura ang mga yan. Dapat kasi may nagbabantay o at gawan ng multa pag nahuli ang nagnakaw.
consider this: the entrance fee is only 7 pesos; 5 pesos for students; free for senior citizens.........e talagang magnanakaw sila kung they could sell it for 150 pesos

^^thats what they call conservation effort?

its sad to hear that. entrance fees? kulang pa yan pang-kape. if only they have initiative, they could raise needed funds from private sector thru sponsorship with "strong" local govt support. this is how phil eagle conservation project works.

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whow! awesome!!!

http://photobucket.com/albums/v635/jbkayaker12/b1.jpg

I like this photo, so serene and secluded looking, where is this beach located?

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All I have to say in this thread is....PRESERVE AND RESPECT WORLD and PHILIPPINE NATURE!

thank you

http://photobucket.com/albums/v635/jbkayaker12/b1.jpg

I like this photo, so serene and secluded looking, where is this beach located?

Luzon Island :)

What? That's the only clue you're giving me? There are a thousand or more beaches on Luzon island!
Is this going to be a "guess the beach" thread now? :lol:

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Here's some pictures I have of Guimaras Island ...



Is that what I think it is........!? Alibihod Beach!?!? :eek2:

Is that what I think it is........!? Alibihod Beach!?!? :eek2:

Yes it is, not that impressive, but there are other beaches onthe island ... I've gone boating on some parts of the island, its great!!!! I'm going there again this summer, can't wait!

http://www.uploadhouse.com/images/284768653bridge of death.jpg

http://www.uploadhouse.com/images/401779778farm.jpg

Has anybody seen the animal sanctuary in Subic called Zoobic. I read that it's almost like the Calauit Animal Sanctuary in Palawan.
Wow Subic has it all...industrial park, airport, seaport, hotels and beaches, mountains, zoobic animal sanctuary, proximity to Pinatubo - the underground volcano which is now a national attraction.

ADVENTURE At nature’s theme parks

In the former Ilanin forest in Subic, more than a hundred hectares of forest land is devoted to nature theme parks that sometimes combine forest and marine biodiverrsity.

Accessible by a 25-minute ride from Subic’s central district along the freeport’s well-paved thoroughfares, the cluster of recreational development called the Forest Adventure Park is perfect not only for recreation but more for educational and eco-tourism purposes.

The Zoobic Safari and Ocean Adventure, two of the most prominent and very popular destinations in that wildlife, act as strong magnets pulling in local and foreign tourists.

Zoobic Safari is Robert Yupangco’s pet project, himself an animal lover who has a strong passion for keeping and caring forpets.

In January 2004, with some 47 species of animals thrown free inside the original 13-hectare wildlife sanctuary, Yupangco and friends opened Zoobic Safari.

The zoo’s operations manager, Edward Isip, explained that the zoo apart from being a good place for entertaining children and adults, is also a refuge for lost and orphaned wildlife as well as for the rehabilitation and release of sick animals.

Now teeming with at least 130 species of different animals, the park is even more dedicated to the rescue of animals, especially the wildlife. Its mission is to educate the public so that they may develop a healthy respect for life and a more harmonious relationship between civilized men and his neighboring wildlife.

Zoobic Zafari currently operates on a 20.4-hectare of animal village which is now home to more than a dozen Bengali tigers, about 50 ostriches from Africa and Australia, 200 guinea fowls from Papua New Guinea, 50 potbelles and wild boars from the USA, Vietnam and the Philippines, and over 3,000 species of plants and trees designed to make animals blend harmoniously with the lush foliage. The attractions within the zoo are clustered into five major groups Tiger Safari, Close Encounter, Serpentarium, Petting Zoo and Savannah.

The Tiger Safari is a short ride to the tiger sanctuary on board the Tiger Safari, Jeep, a modified passenger jeep with lockable doors made of safety iron grills painted on its external in the fashion of the tiger design. The safari jeep is driven by a trained Aeta together with a tour guide.

The Close Encounter is an exciting view of close, of about a dozen tigers at merely two feet away in their cages while they eat. Witness these cat species, weighing some 1,000 lbs. Each voraciously devour the huge chunks of meat thrown them for lunch or dinner. Now, in case you wish to feel the thrill of feeding the beasts, procure a live chicken and pay R200 to the park management.

The zoo’s Serpentarium is domain to various species of snakes, green iguanas, Philippine and Caiman crocodiles, Burmese python, sailfin and monitor lizards, box turtles, star tortoise, blue tongue skink and chameleon.

Park attendants allow visitors to touch a sunbathing python on top of a table and for R75 they will allow you to feel the serpents and their neighbors.

In a two-hectare range within the nature park complex, the Petting Zoo is where you can actually touch and pet your favorite animals – roaming live around the park. The petting zoo is home to ostriches, cassowaries, antelopes, birds, primates, giant black bear, deer, turtles and miniature horses.

On the other hand, the Savannah is where you will see around 50 ostriches, some 50 potbellies and hundreds of guinea fowls roaming around. If you have the heart and determination, you can actually get off your car and mingle with the animals harmlessly.

Apart from all these features, the Zoobic Safari will soon open its Elephant World, Alligator Land, Rodent World, Honey Bee Farm, Safari Lodge and Rice Wine Brewery, giraffes from Calauit and camels from Australia.

Meanwhile, down the road and into the sea, is Camayan Beach beside which is a water theme park called Ocean Adventure. This is the only Southeast Asian open water marine theme park.

Here, one can see the Ocean Discovery Aquarium, housed in a 280 sq. m. air-conditioned building and artificially lighted to stimulate ocean’s different depths.

The built-in aquariums of fresh and sea water habitats showcase varying species of marine life presented in nearly perfect condition as designed and implemented by professional teams headed by John Corcoran, president/COO of Ocean Adventure.

Corcoran is actively involved with internationally acclaimed theme parks such as the Ocean Park in Hong Kong and Disney World and Animal Kingdom in Florida, among others.

At El Capitan Theater, Wayne Philips’ group of trainers and show hosts treat the huge crowd to a magnificent display of antics by whales – Pounder and Hook – against the awe-inspiring view of the open sea.

The presentation which lasts for some 25 minutes combines marine acrobatics by the whales and their trainees and feeding.

At the Nautilus Theater nearby, the sea lion provides another treat for visitors. This time, Randy and Simba are on the spotlight. These sea lions do their routines which much ease and regularity. (Lynda B. Valencia)

Here..I found some pictures of Mt. Pinatubo - for a great outdoor adventure like trekking and kayaking

http://www.mapua.org/mitmc/scenes/pinatubo/pinatubo_big1.jpg

http://www.mapua.org/mitmc/scenes/pinatubo/pinatubo_newbig4.jpg


http://www.johnberns.com/travelog/images/travels/philippines/pinatubo/pinatubo_landscape_04.jpg


http://www.johnberns.com/travelog/images/travels/philippines/pinatubo/pinatubo_descending_wall.jpg


http://www.johnberns.com/travelog/images/travels/philippines/pinatubo/pinatubo_waterfall_climb_01.jpg

http://www.infohub.com/TRAVEL/IMAGES/SIT_IMAGES/5745.jpg

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I managed to dig out a few pictures from my Pinas album:

Taal Volcano
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid162/p13d90dd4a3f81d156b805481b2a7ae73/f4b4b67c.jpg

Puerto Galera at dawn
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid162/pd86faa48cef84f6a87ea7b421b3a2b17/f4b4b67b.jpg

Wow, ang ganda!

we went to Tanauan yesterday. The lake that we went to is still part of Taal. Very nice place. The rock formations of the nearby island/mountains are so cool!!!

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Share some pictures here. Was it Maliputo or Tawilis that is being farmed at Lake Taal? I had those little fish cooked crispy and you have to eat the whole fish. We bought them at Farmers Market in Araneta Center. I love Tawilis it was the first time Ive tried them, a little bigger than Dilis and so tasty. Yummy.

Jon


yeh i agree!...Yummy Tawilis...hehe

http://www.mapua.org/mitmc/scenes/pinatubo/pinatubo_big1.jpg


If you didn't say this was in the Philippines, I would have guessed it as the US Western Rockies (Colorado or Utah)! :lol:

lol.....would you believe if i tell you it is actually an underground volcano....wealth of wonders talaga

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wow! pinatubo parang grand canyon. well, the eruption somehow resulted a plus in our tourism industry after more than ten years.

a breathtaking scencery from the ruins of Mt Pinatubo !

Is that the Ifugao Rice Terraces? Wish I can visit it someday ..

The Banawe rice terraces trip is refreshing. Try it!
We took the route from Baguio (to meet some friends), going to Sagada. On the way back, we took the Banawe route. So we're able to see the entire Cordillera region. Sad to say, a wide mountanous area was denuded.

ang ganda pa rin ng Banaue Rice Terraces! (pero hindi ata yan un?)

Spectacular sights indeed! Have been to Banawe Rice Terraces sometime in 1997 and I remember them having flat tops. Unless they've "grown", and if my memory serves me right, those pics aren't in Banawe.

Is that the Banaue Rice Terraces? I heard they're building another rice terraces somewhere else in the Philippines.

hindi ata Banaue Rice Terraces yan....

Mukha nga. Nase-sense ko rin na hindi Banaue Rice Terraces yan.

Ano ba 'to "Guess the Terraces Thread"? :D

uhhmm... Bohol? :colgate:

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Yeah, the first one looks like Chocolate Hills-cum-Rice Terraces. 2 in1! Great!
Didn't know that Bohol has rice terraces, too. They looked more "structured" than the ones in Banawe, though.

YeheY!!! I'm correct :colgate: Ok, "Guess the terraces thread" closed. haha :D

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I knew that wasn't the famed rice terraces of Banaue, my first clue was all those palm (coconut) trees in the area. :)

Hahahaha now can you guess where I found those photos? Hahahahahaha!

Jon

Pasaway talaga. :nono:

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Ok. Is that magazine being sold in the Philippines?

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Uhhmmm... Somewhere in Palawan???

Good idea. Local GTC.

ermmm... Pangasinan?

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somewhere in Mindanao? hehe. :lol: just kidding!

I found these pics at Philmap.com Site. Ang gaganda ng mga articles. Gusto ko nang umuwi......take me home country road...to the place where i belong....Pilipinas

Caramoan in Camarines Sur - The best kept secret, now out in the open:

http://www.pilmap.com.ph/PILMAP%20(Special%20Edition)/images/caramoan_01.gif

http://www.pilmap.com.ph/PILMAP%20(Special%20Edition)/images/caramoan_05.gif

http://www.pilmap.com.ph/PILMAP%20(Special%20Edition)/images/caramoan_04.gif

http://www.pilmap.com.ph/PILMAP%20(Special%20Edition)/images/caramoan_03.gif

Ang ganda... nasa Pilipinas nga ako kaso wala naman akong pera para makapagbakasyon dyan ngayong summer :( haaayyyy... so sad

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Yeah, but even if I'm able to save enough (although that seems impossible) money to go there, I won't be allowed to because being the only child, I'm not allowed to go anywhere far without my parents going with me or at least with someone they trust.

But anyway, my tita from New York will be going back here in the Philippines this April, and she wants to go to the different tourist spots here. And guess what, kasama ako, yehey, sana maganda yung mga places na gusto niyang puntahan. :colgate:

wow! ang ganda talaga ng Pinas! :eek2:

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about the first pix, is that real or just a rendering? nevertheless, that place is spectacular :drool:

thanks for sharing.

wow! that is beautiful...!! is Puerto del Sol the name of the place or the name of the resort? around where is it?

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Puerto del Sol is in Pangasinan? :eek2: whoah! im from pangasinan and i haven't even heard about it :bash: is it new? jon, do u know what town in pangasinan it is located? thanks.

edit: never mind. i did a search and it's in Bolinao :) i heard even before that there are undiscovered beautiful white beaches in the western coast of pangasinan. maybe this is one of those.

Philippines' Highest Waterfall

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/dc/aliwagwagcaragapbasemillie.jpg

388-meter high with 84 cascading falls appearing like stairway to heaven.

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i dont know where to put this.. but this is something new.. hehehe :)

Stray dolphin saved off Manila Bay

Posted 11:26pm (Mla time) April 06, 2005
By Margaux Ortiz
Inquirer News Service


Editor's Note: Published on page A20 of the April 7, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer


THIS dolphin is a survivor.

A wounded bottlenose dolphin lived through the night after straying from its pod into the premises of the Manila Yacht Club's (MYC) where it was rescued on Tuesday.

In what he described as a "rare occurrence," Manila Zoo officer-in-charge Dr. Romulo Bernardo said the pod of dolphins passed through the Manila Bay's waters the other night.

"This is the first time I heard of dolphins swimming in Manila Bay," Bernardo told the Inquirer in a phone interview.

MYC official Rudy Pedroso agreed with Bernardo, saying that bottlenose dolphins were often found in the waters of Mindoro and Bataan provinces.

The dolphin, measuring approximately 1.8 meters, strayed into the Philippine Navy Headquarters' area and swam toward the MYC with two other companions.

MYC official Rudy Pederoso said patrol guards saw the dolphins swimming around the area at about 9 p.m.

The dolphins, which have a habit of following boats, may have strayed away from the group to follow the MYC yachts, he added.

But while the two other dolphins managed to leave the MYC premises, the male dolphin's wounds could have prevented it from following the others, the MYC official explained.

"The wounded dolphin was the only one left behind in the morning," Pederoso added.

After bringing the mammal to the breakwater's sandy part at around 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, veterinarians from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources immediately treated the dolphin's two wounds.

"The dolphin was friendly, and it seemed like it was asking for help," Pederoso said.

He added that the mammal's wounds, located on its tail and belly, were relatively old.

Back home

After injecting the dolphin with vitamins and observing it for a few hours, Pederoso and the other veterinarians released it back to the deep waters near the Parola area in Manila.

"The dolphin will survive," Pederoso confidently said. "It swam with renewed vigor, not like how it behaved before its wounds were treated."

According to Internet website e-nature.com, bottlenose dolphins feed on a wide variety of fishes, squids, shrimps and crabs, and often follow trawlers and other fishing boats to feed on unwanted fish that are thrown overboard and on organisms stirred up by the nets. With Jean Bermudez

Im glad...lets hope he makes it!!...sana ma educate ng gov ang citizens natin about respect for animals/preservation...when i was young i use to see some fools who had a sling shot ang would try to hit "maya" and other birds..how sad...

dito laws are so strict sa animals cruelty...its so strict that even if u see a poisonouse snake...you cant just kill it or you'de pay dearly...

Puerto del Sol is the name of the resort in Pangasinan. I like the Filipiniana style of its huts. This is another proof that the main island of Luzon has nice beaches contrary to what many foreigners think.
Even I, a Filipino from Luzon, am beginning to think Luzon lacks beautiful beaches compared to the Visayas and Mindanao. :)

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Batanes...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/beach.jpg

Batanes again...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/dc/BascoPort.jpg

Batanes land & sea scapes parang hindi sa Pilipinas. Hawig sa Ireland & New Zealand daw.

Batanes...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/beach.jpg

This resembles the California coastline! I guess they'll have some similarities because they're at each end of the Pacific Ocean. :)

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Batanes pics again... some of these already posted in other threads...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/island5.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/island10.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/island9.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/island8.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/island4.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/island.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/island2.jpg

this one i like the most... Tina Turner wannabes...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/island3.jpg

philippines' underwater scenes

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/dvogulf.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/dvogulf6.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/dc/dvogulf2.jpg

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Wow, beautiful pictures, what a natural blessing we have! Batanes looks out of another world!

Batanes looks so serene and peaceful... that's the kind of place where i would like to spend the rest of my life... :)

Batanes pics again... some of these already posted in other threads...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/island10.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/island.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/sleepwalker_uno/island2.jpg

[/IMG]
Batanes is one of the most typhoon-prone area, hence the stone houses, I suppose.
I would like to travel here when I have the money and time :)

beautiful Batanes pictures ... indeed, Philippines has too much to offer naturally !

so many things that have yet to be discovered!

ganda. galing ng pagkakagawa ng mga houses. :bow:

Title : Philippines is world's richest source of marine life: UN study
By :
Date : 12 April 2005 1733 hrs (SST)
URL : http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/southeastasia/view/142229/1/.html

MANILA : A new marine life study has declared the Philippines as the hub of the Indo-Malay-Philippines triangle, long dubbed the world's centre for marine biodiversity.

Channel NewsAsia finds out how this finding places new burdens of responsibility on the country.

It's official - the Philippines has the richest concentration of marine life in the world.

A 10-year United Nations study by more than 100 of the world's foremost authorities on marine organisms led to this significant finding.

Dr Kent Carpenter, Author of 'The Centre Of The Centre Of Marine Biodiversity: The Philippine Islands', said: "Not only is it a national heritage for the Philippines, but it is also a world heritage. You are the keepers of the epicentre of marine biodiversity."

It is hoped that international funding will buttress efforts by the national and local governments to effectively curb destruction from cyanide or blast-fishing, trawling and deforestation resulting in siltation.

Because marine conservation is so poor in the Philippines, there is a real threat of extinction to some marine species including those that have yet to be discovered.

This is all the more reason for the rest of the world, in the interest of nature and science, to channel some help this way.

Unfortunately, many global conservation groups have shifted their focus to areas like Africa where urgent help is needed.

Mr Lorenzo Tan, President of the World Wildlife Fund in the Phililippines, said: "From Asia, the expectation now of donor countries is we need results. We are not here to plant seeds. We are here to lead you on to harvest. And we have to excel in implementation because we have been seeding Asia for 10 years."

He said there were successful cases of sustainable conservation in the Philippines, but they are based on enforcement of local laws and need to be replicated throughout the archipelago.

He feels the key to replication is understanding that conservation makes good business sense with a multitude of opportunities to explore.

Mr Tan added: "There is an option to draw business and industry investment, and not just tokens of corporate responsibility as real investments.

"This part of the world is so important in terms of diversity and therefore it is so important in terms of productivity.

"And if properly managed, sustainably, then it provides an inexhaustible supply of income for Southeast Asia."

In short, the Philippines being the epicentre of marine biodiversity, has too precious a gift on its hands to expect any other, but itself, to protect its waters and marine life. - CNA

great!!! I hope we attract more tourists and divers because of that :okay:

I never knew that the Philippines has cable car in her sleeves. Can you confirm this? Where is this in Cavite Province and how long to travel?

http://www.tourism.gov.ph/explore_phil/place_details.asp?content=thingstodo&province=17

http://www.tourism.gov.ph/images/Explore/Gallery/Big/CAVITE/Cavite-Cable-Car.jpg

cable cars? i think its in tagaytay highlands golf course...

yeah, that's Tagaytay Highlands

yup, it's the only place with cable cars.

does any of you guys have pictures of the new reforested la mesa dam watershed and the new eco park?

Dunno where to post this... dito na lan

Dalampasigan, Sariaya, Quezon:

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid166/p3c0f4dec30d4f88760b90cef73c8760c/f44db9ca.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid166/p57a61fc8c22a73e626b6c78cb7d2a39b/f44db9c6.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid166/p65bf802d296bc3956ff18e1a378d6549/f44db9c3.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid166/p8932a9019ebc2219578a9405598a525b/f44db9c2.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid166/p49241462acd3fbd99b054b505da12eb8/f44db9c1.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid166/pf71ec276228bbb3aa1f31be42282b82a/f44db9be.jpg

some more...

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid166/p8ffa8cbfc5874d163f27f4f15767e782/f44db9b4.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid166/peb26e2512634e37c201fc2e9a74419df/f44db9b2.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid166/pe360c041b79903f2d94b6da8136cdddf/f44db9af.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid166/p89f921e0b082d92302814388cf183b59/f44db9ac.jpg

Sorry, napasama na rin un man-made

Very nice, I feel like taking a vacation, hmmm.

I luv the pice Mhe-Ann

From the internet: SUBIC


http://planethuddleston.com/scans/subic11.jpg
http://planethuddleston.com/scans/subic10.jpg
http://planethuddleston.com/scans/subic18.jpg

Hey @meh-ann! I've been to that place in Sariaya, Quezon, but when I was there it wasn't that pretty yet, very much spartan then.

really? we're going to have our company outing there on the 8th of May but it falls unfortunately on Sunday (my spiritual day) so I cannot go. but it's okay. :)

obvious na binubuhay ko palagi ang thread na ito. Ito pa mga pics.

Tagaytay:

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC01947.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC01948.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC01949.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC01957.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC01968.jpg

some more...

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC01977.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC01979.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC01982.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC01987.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC02005.jpg

ito pa ulit...

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC01989.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC02006.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC02007.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC02025.jpg

miscellaneous pics:

ulap
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC02051.jpg

tingnan nyo na lan un view sa baba. :D
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC02027.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/DSC02028.jpg

All pics were taken last week.

GERMAN LEADS EFFORTS TO SAVE BOHOL'S REEFS

PANGLAO, BOHOL, May 10, 2005 (STAR) (AFP) — Holger Horn looks out across the tranquil waters off Panglao island and says: "It wasn’t always like this... quiet and peaceful."

When the former German army officer first arrived on the tropical island four years ago he thought he had found his little piece of paradise among the gently swaying palms, white beaches and crystal clear waters that surround the island.

But not all was as it appeared in the popular diving resort.

"When I came here four years ago dynamite fishing was rampant," he tells Agence France Presse. "And as you know diving and dynamite fishing do not belong together. So I started to fight back."

The tall and athletic Berliner, now 45, is an unlikely guardian of the coral colonies of the Southeast Asian archipelago. Some of the most spectacular formations can be found off Panglao and the nearby islands of Balicasag and Pamilacan.

A dive instructor by day, Horn doubles as a board member of the Bohol Islands Marine Triangle program, funded by the UN Development Program to conserve the marine life of Bohol Sea, a major highway for the transoceanic traffic of sea creatures from giant whales to tiny krill.

For his efforts, Horn has won an honorary commission into the Philippines Coast Guard.

"In the beginning nobody cared. Then I took over to care for the reefs and now you can see great areas of improvement. It’s really wonderful to see how nature is rebuilding," Horn says.

Compared to those of many other countries, "the diversity of the Philippine coral reefs is still quite in the upper level," he added.

Last year, a French-led research team identified some 1,200 different species of crabs and shrimps and around 6,000 mollusk species in the waters off Panglao, many of them not previously known to science.

But pressure from fishing fleets and marine tourism, funneled into Panglao from major tourist gateways like nearby Cebu City, have put the vast underwater gardens in jeopardy.

The environment department says the destruction of the reefs, breeding grounds and sanctuaries for many of the creatures of the sea, went into overdrive in the 1970s when fishermen tossed dynamite or poison into the water to stun or blind the fish.

Some of the damage was not even deliberate.

"There are types of corals that grow about 10 centimeters in one year. So for example, you throw an anchor at a coral garden and you destroyed two square meters. It takes five to 10 years to get it to grow back," Horn says.

From the start, conservation was an alien concept to many residents, who have fished the sea for generations.

"But the perception has changed," he says, a point driven home by the reality of declining catches.

"Look at them today, the marginal fishermen. They come back with a handful of fish and they can’t even feed their families," he says.

The government has restricted fishing in shallow waters to small fishermen, set up community-based marine sanctuary projects, and encouraged marine tourism including scuba diving and whale watching.

Some 15,000 scuba divers visit Panglao and the nearby islands every year, drawn by 18 established dive sites in the area.

The son of a marine biologist who instilled in his son an abiding fascination with the sea, Horn says cultural factors also play a big influence in marine conservation.

"I found out that the Philippines has great laws, rules and regulations and ordinances but they really lack implementation," he says.

One reason, he says is that these laws are foreign to many residents. "You are dealing here with people who spent one or sometimes three years in elementary school, and sometimes they don’t even know how to write properly. So how do you make them understand that these ordinances are so important?"

Even some of the rich and presumably better educated tourists disappoint him because they take trophies or souvenirs from the dive sites.

"Our base for an effective tourism industry is the coral reefs. So if we don’t have intact coral reefs, the resorts can’t (attract tourists) and will have to close down," he says.

Within the project site, only traditional means of fishing are now allowed. Permanent buoys are planned so vessels would stop using destructive anchors in the protected site.

The Bohol Islands Marine Triangle board is supervising a zoning survey to delineate which areas to declare as sanctuaries, fishing areas, tourism sections or navigational corridors.

Also planned are a user-fee scheme under which every scuba diver would be charged P50, and boats that damage corals by indiscriminately dropping anchors would be fined. Proceeds would pay for fish wardens to guard the sanctuaries and support communities involved in the project.

The Panglao municipal council also passed an ordinance requiring new restaurants or hotels to put up proper waste disposal systems.

Horn says Panglao is learning its lessons from Boracay, another world-famous island resort in Aklan that hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons a few years back due to E. coli bacteria infection of the water.

Horn, who runs his dive shop with his Japanese girlfriend, says he loves the Philippines and hopes to "settle down" in Panglao eventually.

"It’s more than the diving actually. I like the culture. The Filipino culture is quite easygoing. The climate is quite nice. The people are normally nice and friendly and cheerful."

@Mhe-ann: Hindi ka nakasama sa outing sa Sariaya pero may Taal pics ka naman. Did you take those pics? Those are breathtaking views. Nakakawala ng problema (if any).

it is somewhat sad to know that the initiative to conserve our environment comes from foreign people... it just shows how we often disregard the things around us and that we need someone else to knock on our heads and wake us up.

^ amen to that..

btw, here r some of the pics i took during our summer escapade at Samal Island..
meeting w/ the Badjao kids
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/gianavee/IMAG0003.jpg

Malipano
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/gianavee/IMAG0041.jpg

Pearl Farm
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/gianavee/IMAG0046.jpg

Kaputian
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/gianavee/IMAG0069.jpg

Is that the Pearl Farm Picnic Resort?

Is that the Pearl Farm Picnic Resort?

yes.. medyo di lang maganda pagkakuha ng pic... but it do look awesome in real.. :)

ang ganda ng lugar. parang ang tahimik. :)

definitely a must see in the Philippines! :eek2:

Siquijor, an absolute jewel of an island.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid169/pcb0d2d235aa7f7693a7dde7b613fa16b/f4030b2a.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid169/p24f71cb830d7e92144935ee2859c4c9a/f4030b24.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid169/p5b5b441fa50cc17103fe8c5a70218678/f4030b20.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid169/pc573e5b528068d5f9ddeb44ee1fcec88/f402e983.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid169/p3f1e83207563b5d63adbb681980a4ffd/f402d52f.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid169/pa89b9b53cb2a28d998e459c9d9dd8857/f402d52b.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid169/pf974d31f91b912b00994a5709b440978/f402d526.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid169/p31e6b34000b2fc74cf5d9bc927ca082d/f402d51f.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/p0495862ec51f8ad06fed9901769a680d/f3fec57c.jpg

Look at the deserted beaches! Untainted by mainstream tourism....a secret hideaway!

philippines really has a lot to offer... very nice scenery..

Guimaras Island

Puerto del Mar Beach Resort
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/p8675f1acbad4ea09603f0c46c7e4541a/f3fc9403.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/pa2727f0b970ece5bd8930809548e6715/f3fc9400.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/p129312b6b7286adb183e7d94aa488d31/f3fc93f5.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/p1fc662235a1659dfad1c21df79e21341/f3fc93f2.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/pa12006d15bd1aa9c71ea349c1ba37622/f3fc93ee.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/pbbbcde153f8151a0a78c58d177661876/f3fc93eb.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/pc05ee74b0684e01a1607834d9620ba77/f3fc93df.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/p37edd853bf2883f289136f4d30a4626e/f3fc93d7.jpg

Alubihod (Raymen Beach Resort)

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/p5a60a28b912ff5d6dd342415465a352c/f3fc917e.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/p85b2a8f1ca7e5dfcdb162d23589fed97/f3fc917b.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/p5320b411c02ca45e8a304469bc6088ee/f3fc9178.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/p4497ba7b050ce7573ec632d273144d8b/f3fc9177.jpg

Nueva Valencia, Guimaras
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/pb7711c7c2aa40bb91fabbf78e7feb382/f3fc93db.jpg
Guimaras, Home to the sweetest Mangoes in the world
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid170/pfdbe563fd661089b9b3173952bc75c16/f3fc9411.jpg

More Pictures here:
Tourism Philippines (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=4237892&postcount=88)
Iloilo City and Province Thread (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=4237878&postcount=100)
Full Album @ ImageStation (http://www.imagestation.com/album/pictures.html?id=2126243500)

some pics taken last weekend. i really enjoy our trip.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y229/sleepie_uno/camiguin/Img00067.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y229/sleepie_uno/camiguin/camiguin013.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y229/sleepie_uno/camiguin/camiguin060.jpg

WOW! ganda ng sunset pic! ayos!

ganda nga. I simply love (beach) sunset pics. I love staying in the sea shore (alone) while watching the sun goes down. peaceful. nakakapag-meditate ako. :)

why not post this pic here (originally posted in Manila, My Tradition, My Modernity.. thread)...

photo courtesy of @dudz.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/bay%20area/IMG_1325s.jpg

edit.. may rule nga pala si kuya francis na dapat un nag-post ng pic ang cya rin kumuha... sorry.

heto ako while waiting for nice sunset shot.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y229/sleepie_uno/camiguin/camiguin2057.jpg

opps...kala ko naligaw ako ng thread...kita ko yung sunset pic sa manila bay :D...i also love sunsets...i think everybody does. :)

sarap tingnan ng mga pics...exotic places all...camiguin, guimaras, siquijor, samal...the philippines has really a lot of hidden treasures. if ever na maging big business ang tourism in these islands (and others with the same attractions) sana maiwasan ang mga environmental problems, ang exploitation so that the generations to come eh maenjoy din nila. :)

okey ang pwesto mo sleepy ha...ala oblation :D

btw, salamat sa mga photos guys, sarap magbakasyon!!!

hi...nice photos there! the first camiguin photo is awesome. what cam was used for that? seem to be a digicam with small focal length. am i right? pardon me if im wrong!!!

hi...nice photos there! the first camiguin photo is awesome. what cam was used for that? seem to be a digicam with small focal length. am i right? pardon me if im wrong!!!

yup. its a extra small digicam with small focal length i suppose.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v438/kryptonite_819/banaue/Image229.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v438/kryptonite_819/banaue/Image208.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v438/kryptonite_819/banaue/Image212.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v438/kryptonite_819/banaue/Image213.jpg

cellphone shots lang (Nokia 6600).. sayang! nakabili ako ng Kodak DX7590 one month later..

Endangered RP eagles survive in Samar’s jungles

First posted 10:53pm (Mla time) June 14, 2005
By Vicente Labro
Inquirer News Service



Editor's Note: Published on page A20 of the June 15, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer


TACLOBAN CITY-A small group of critically-endangered Philippine eagles has managed to survive in the wilds of Samar Island, where a British naturalist got the first specimen of the bird on June 13, 1896.

Arnulito Viojan, team leader of the Environment Department’s Regional Eagle Watch Team (REWT) in Eastern Visayas, Tuesday said that since 1998, his team has encountered and observed eight eagles at different mountains of Samar, the country's third largest island.

Viojan said the REWT's first confirmed sighting of the Philippine Eagle was in 1998 on Mt. Nahulopan in Taft, Eastern Samar, where they found a nest with an eaglet and its parents.

He added that in 1999, they also confirmed sightings of two adult Philippine Eagles. One of these birds was seen at Mt. Huraw in San Jose de Buan, Samar and the other, in a forested area along an old logging road in Maslog, Eastern Samar.

In 2001, the REWT confirmed the existence of two more adult eagles at Mt. Lublub, in an area near the boundary of Taft and Sulat towns, both in Eastern Samar. Then in 2003, an adult Philippine Eagle was seen at Mt. Capotoan in Las Navas, Northern Samar.

Viojan said they also received reports of sightings of the Philippine Eagle in 2003 at Mt. Yaua in Matuguinao, Samar and early this year, at an eco-trail in upland Barangay Camparina in Borongan, Eastern Samar, and in a forested area near Barangay San Rafael, Taft, Eastern Samar.

The REWT team leader said the team would go to San Jose de Buan on June 23 for a "nest location verification."

He said the team has received reports that the Philippine Eagle seen at Mt. Huraw has built a nest on a crevice in a rocky portion of the mountain which, if true, is a "new characteristic of the Philippine Eagle" since it usually makes its nest near tops of trees.

The eagle watch group in Eastern Visayas was first organized in 1993. It is tasked with monitoring the Philippine Eagle whose population has dwindled due to loss of its habitat and over hunting.

The Philippine Eagle was declared the country's national bird in 1995 by virtue of Proclamation No. 615 which former president Fidel V. Ramos issued that year.

On July 31, 1999, former president Joseph Estrada signed Proclamation No. 155 establishing the 3,720-hectare Taft Forest Wildlife (Philippine Eagle) Sanctuary on Samar Island. The sanctuary includes Mt. Nahulopan where adult eagles and an eaglet were seen in 1998.

wow guys all your shots are worthy to be featured on travel brochures..

Chymera those are the best shots of Guimaras I've seen so far especially the 5,6,7 pics...it looks like you've just mastered the art of focal perspective, the same goes to other forumers

Wooowooo, I can't wait to go Island hopping...

the banaue rice terraces really has to be preserved. konte na lang yata among the ifugaos are into farming. also noticed in some recent photos that the ifugao village has somewhat changed...g.i. sheets na ang roof ng mga native houses:ohno:
what is the best time to go there?

pretty nature pictures :)

also went on a short vacation in bataan, my home province. kahit malapit lang sya sa manila, it's not too often that i spend time there. Bataan is not really that popular among tourists. as with any province, it has its charm and attractions...beaches and the dambana ng kagitingan are tops. kaya lang ang ipopost ko are not really attractions but still nature :) the lowlands and some mountains including mt samat.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/bataan/bataan_2269.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/bataan/bataan_2268.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/bataan/bataan_2234.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/bataan/bataan_2192.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/bataan/bataan_2085.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/bataan/bataan_2074.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/bataan/bataan_2049.jpg

nice... It must be a good feeling to be home :)

yup! fresh air...wide open spaces...green surroundings...fresh fruits/vegetables as in straight from the tree, garden, farm...old friends and kins...it feels really good:okay:

Aaahhhh! I feel refreshed just looking at them! :okay:

anong tower to? ang ganda!


http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/bataan/bataan_2268.jpg

"The hills are alive....with the sound of music"

Aaahhhh! I feel refreshed just looking at them! :okay:
it sure is refreshing, red and how i'm glad that the mountains and hills are green again :)

@sleepwalker_uno...the mountain is mt samat and the "tower" is actually a huge cross. that site is called the shrine of valor or dambana ng kagitingan, in honor of our WWII defenders, where every year the araw ng kagitingan (april 9) is celebrated. it has a museum, a chapel, a helipad, i think a hostel. the cross has an elevator, 36 flights of stairs to the "arms" which also serve as a viewing platform. i don't have a close up pic but here's one by jon tengco from pbase.
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/photobyjontengcoofpbase.jpg

@thisfire...mapapakanta ka talaga pag nanduon ka...kasi may videoke :jk:
it really is a nice feeling to be in the middle of it all :)

Great pictures people.


Saving Verde Island
By Donnabelle L. Gatdula
The Philippine STAR 06/18/2005

Saving the world’s coral reef hotspots may be a herculean task given the deterioration of our surroundings, but environmental advocates are not leaving any stone unturned to preserve one of the world’s richest marines resources right here in the Philippines – Verde Island in Batangas.

In 2002, Conservation International’s Center for Applied Biodiversiy Science (CABS) identified the Philippines as one the world’s hottest of all the coral reef hotspots. Hotspots are coral reefs exceptionally rich in marine species found nowhere else in the world but are facing extreme threats to its survival. Other hotspots are Gulf of Guinea Islands, Sundra Islands, Southern Mascarene Islands, Eastern South Africa, Northern Indian Ocean, Southern Japan, Taiwan and Southern China, Cape Verde Islands, Western Caribbean and the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

In the Philippines, one of the very vital marine corridors is the Verde Passage which includes Verde Island. This corridor is composed of the coasts, islands and waters of four provinces in Southern Luzon: Batangas, Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental and Marinduque.

The Verde Passage is considered vital as it serves as a transition area between marine bio-geographic regions. It is a gateway for the exchange of propagules and energy needed to sustain marine life as well as for the migration of marine species.

Realizing the importance of this marine corridor, Lopez-owned First Gen Holdings Corp., whose main businesses are located in Batangas, decided to support a sustained program for the conservation and development of the Verde Passage starting off with Verde Island.

Tapping the expertise of First Philippine Conservation Inc. and Conservation International Philippines, both known as leaders in the conservation of biodiversity here and abroad, the Verde Passage Marine Corridor Integrated Conservation and Development Program was launched at Hotel Pontefino in Batangas last May 18.

Coinciding with the launch was a signing of a declaration of support from the stakeholders of the Verde Passage Project – from barangay leaders, local and provincial government officials, academe, environmentalist groups, church, and other NGOs.

First Gen vice chairman Peter Garrucho Jr. said this partnership between First Gen, FPCI, CI and the stakeholders shows a committed multi-sectoral involvement in the protection of the country’s marine resources.

Romeo Trono, country director of Conservation International, presented a study on the biodiversity significance of the Verde Passage Marine Corridor. He emphasized that the passage is a high priority in marine conservation because this corridor facilitates the exchange and migration of species and nutrients across seas.

According to Trono, more than 300 species of corals have been identified in the Verde Passage, a number comparable to the Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park. The passage harbors sea turtles, giant clams, humphead wrasses and whalesharks.

"This is a long-term project. We have worked for a long time for this project and we hope this will be sustained with the help of local and international partners," said First Gen and FPCI president Federico Lopez.

Lopez, who is also a diver and an advocate of preserving marine biodiversity, said the Verde passage project can take its cue from the success of the cleanup project done by concerned groups in Anilao about 10 years ago.

According to Garrucho, the program will involve the province of Batangas where most of the power plants of First Gen are located. "Our biggest assets are in Batangas and that is why we have a significant interest in preserving the rich natural resources of the province." Garrucho added that they are committed to assist in the economic and social development of host communities, as well as to protect the communities affected by its operations.

The three-year program, which will be funded mostly by an international foundation, will amount to about $5.7 million.

The initial phase of the program, which is expected to be completed by mid-July this year, involves the development and implementation of a coastal resource management plan in Verde Island, which serves as an anchor site for the corridor-wide program.

With these efforts, Verde Island will hopefully be a living legacy to our future generations.

@ dudz: thanks for the info & ur great photos.

yup! fresh air...wide open spaces...green surroundings...fresh fruits/vegetables as in straight from the tree, garden, farm...old friends and kins...it feels really good:okay:

:yes: a good getaway from the pressure of working in a city. :)

nice photos (as always). :)

I'm inspired by the pictures and stories here, and this whole thread. :)

Gil: Have you ever hugged a mountain?
By Sandy Gil
Sunday Dunes

A FEW years before I had decided to finally move to Davao City, I had been traveling to this city of blooms to work with real environmentalists. While I am one who is sincerely concerned with the state and fate of our environment, I cannot say that I am a diehard environmentalist's environmentalist.

All of us have psychological fears called phobia. What makes phobias totally different from ordinary fears is that these are marked by truly intense and often indescribable anxiety. Some have fears of enclosed areas called claustrophobia. Others have fears of water called hydrophobia (don't you wonder how these people take a bath or drink water?). There are so many phobias that exist in human beings that there are not enough words by which to label them.

I have a phobia for heights. I was once told that the scientific name for this type of phobia is called acrophobia. I however think that the word "height-o-phobia" is more appropriate. And this phobia is not a rare one either, which makes it rather common until...

-o0o-

One is invited by environmentalists to scale the heights of a mountain. And by no means just any mountain, but the highest peak in the country--the majestic Mt. Apo!

A few years before I had decided to finally move to Davao City, I had been traveling to this city of blooms to work with real environmentalists. While I am one who is sincerely concerned with the state and fate of our environment, I cannot say that I am a diehard environmentalist's environmentalist.

But I loved working with these gentle people, not only because I was able to travel to Davao often, but because it fascinated me to witness their passion for the preservation, conservation and development of the environment. Such passion I can empathize with!

Unaware of my debilitating height-o-phobia (I cannot even scale the stairway to the third floor of SM Davao without palpitating and profusely sweating), these friends invited me to climb Mt. Apo with them. And stupid boastful me accepted the invitation with aplomb.

-o0o-

Getting to the foot of the mountain was no big deal. One would not even be aware of climbing. It was more of trekking with friends. Carrying backpacks was no big deal either. A climber of the female gender (and from Manila, to boot!), such as myself, were given preferential treatment. There were local guides to carry most everything I had on my back, except for my shirt.

I recall one of the environmentalists bringing a bottle or two of red wine, with (take note) matching wine glasses. On the first night, some five of us lay on top of this huge boulder, watching the stars pop out of the sky, one by one-- until there were more stars in the dark canvas of a sky than there was sky. Then we opened the wine bottle and paid tribute to the gods who created such glorious wonders on earth!

-o0o-

The next day brought experiences that were absolutely unexpected. It was a day of serious climbing. And I mean SERIOUS!

The most unforgettable was an attempt to get from one platform of the mountain to another by crossing a ten-meter long path way which had been dug from the side of the mountain.

The width of this path was just about two-thirds the size of my size-6 feet, which meant one had to walk sideways facing the mountain side. Behind one's back was the deepest ravine one could imagine. I was instructed not to look back, and to hold on to the strong foliage and roots that had grown along the mountain side. Yeah right.

It seemed like eternity as I had managed to cross about two meters of that crazy path. The toes of my rubber shoes kissed the mountain side, and the heels of my rubber shoes were hanging out of the path. If they had eyes, they would have been predicting the path by which their owner would be falling off the mountain.

That was when I froze. Completely immobile. My feet refused to move. Facing my left, my sweaty cheek pressed against the muddy soil of the mountain, I could see my friends waiting their turn to cross the path.

Turning to my right, as my dry lips brushed against the mountain, I could see my friends who had already traversed the path, coaxing me to continue crossing. And all I could do was stare at them in panic!

In the meantime, my feet were half hanging out of the ravine, and I was literally hugging the mountain for dear life.

-o0o-

I am still alive today, thanks to one of the professional mountaineers with us. He crossed over to me, and guided me by spreading himself behind me and walking me across the path.

It would have been an otherwise sensual experience, given an altogether different circumstance. But I was not hugging him. I was hugging a mountain.

The sights... ahhh... It's always refreshing to visit this site.

Dave, Sandy Gil's article on mountain-climbing gave me a vicarious thrill -- hugging the mountain for dear life, grasping at straws, roots and whatever foliage is there to hold on to, sweat dripping down your brows, legs shaking from panic and trepidation, being frozen immobile... at last! someone to the rescue. Wow! What an adventure!

This article was taken from the Philippine Star.


‘Laguna de Bay a big septic tank’
By Sandy Araneta
The Philippine Star 06/24/2005

Laguna de Bay, a major waterway and fishing ground whose once pristine waters served as an inspiration to national hero Jose Rizal, has virtually turned into the "biggest septic tank of human and industrial waste from Metro Manila," Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) general manager Edgardo Manda said yesterday.

The bay has been subjected to high levels of chemicals and pollutants that could eventually cause a "full-blown water crisis," Manda said in his "State of Laguna de Bay" speech at a stakeholders forum in Pasig City.

In a slide show presentation attended by about 100 fishermen, Manda said some 400,000 people in Metro Manila are now suffering from water shortage.

Manda said Laguna de Bay is the second largest lake in Asia.

Located at the heart of the country’s urban and industrial centers, the lake has also been subjected to ecological stress, he said.

This is due to the combined forces of waste sink, deforestation, resource extraction, land conversion, biological pollution through coliform, intensive fishing, declining fish production, population growth urbanization and industrial expansion, Manda said.

Fish production in the pens and open water is declining but production in the fish cages is increasing, he noted.

Among the causes of fish kills are infestation and algal bloom. When algae respire, oxygen depletion occurs leading to the death of fishes, he said. Likewise, at the onset of the rainy season, polluted water gases and other organic substances are flushed into the lake.

"Water quality data generated for 2000 to 2004 period indicated that a number of rivers have poor water quality," said Manda.

He said the LLDA monitors 15 of the 22 major rivers in the area, evaluating the water quality of the lake and its tributaries.

Water quality indicators include biochemical oxygen demand, dissolved oxygen, phosphate and nitrate concentrations, chloride, transparency, net primary productivity, total coliforms, and heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, he said.

Manda said that 10 of the 15 rivers have indications of pollution that is harmful to the environment.

"The government is doing its part in the management of the lake. But the problem is too big and the government cannot do it alone. It needs the support of the stakeholders, such as the local government units, academe, farmers, fishermen, business groups, non-government organizations and individuals," the former airport authority manager said.

No wonder the bangus that comes from there is extra tasty , yuch!

anong tower to? ang ganda!

Bay,
kining nga picture ay Mt. samat.

it's really cool place, with a very interesting museum. The setting is quite fantastic as you look over the various terrain where all these young men and boys fought and died over 60 years ago. If you 've go the chance , go visit, go to the top of the cross where it sways and you can really get dizzy with vertigo, very recommended:)

Laguna de Bay on a not so clear day as seen from a mountain.

Fish pens are part of the problem on the lake. Unregulated and uncontrolled these pens deplete the dissolved oxygen in the lake.

http://www.photobucket.com/albums/v635/jbkayaker12/lake.jpg

http://www.photobucket.com/albums/v635/jbkayaker12/lake1.jpg

...and someone thought of constructing an airport on the lake???? Hehehe!!

Makiling Mountain...taken while in SLEX.
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid174/pad2c94946eb262f2b3f341ce47a18bd9/f38eb141.jpg

at past 6pm...
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid174/p3a69b6e56be6610c50e62b5b00c07359/f38eb139.jpg

extra...
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid174/pc9d75c1993feee71e3dbbe9aacfa5061/f38eb13b.jpg

Editorial on today's (June 26,2005) online edition of Manila Times regarding Laguna Lake (http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2005/jun/26/yehey/opinion/20050626opi1.html)

Wake up Filipinos in the Philippines!!

that's a lot of fishpens there @jbkayaker12. and it is just one of the many problems that resulted in the lake's decay and good that finally the gov't is doing something to address these, albeit somewhat delayed and quite slow. at least they have started something.

@mhe-ann...the mt. makiling they say is shaped like a laying lady, i don't know if from that angle though? or is it more of just a profile? kasi pag napapasyal ako sa south talagang kinakasipat-sipat (look closely) ko :D kaya lang di ko pa rin makita :(

and thanks for the fotos...the moon shot is cool.

omg another very sad news, why is the gov't not doing anything about the problem that's going on laguna de bay? are they waiting until it's too late to revive the lake?

---

omg another very sad news, why is the gov't not doing anything about the problem that's going on laguna de bay? are they waiting until it's too late to revive the lake?

We could only blame government to a certain degree and up to a certain point. It is not only the government who could effect change and enforce laws. We may have laws but what good will it do, if us, the citizenry do not obey them. (But also, the said reality is the government lacks in law enforcement and people in government are at times the law brakers).

As a people and as a nation, it is unfortunate that we suffer from apathy, besides from many other things. We lack civic mindedness. An example would be, charity begins at home, but it seems for us, it also ends at home. Ideally, we should be proactive citizens. We must take part to effect a positive change in our country.

@mhe-ann...the mt. makiling they say is shaped like a laying lady, i don't know if from that angle though? or is it more of just a profile? kasi pag napapasyal ako sa south talagang kinakasipat-sipat (look closely) ko :D kaya lang di ko pa rin makita :(

and thanks for the fotos...the moon shot is cool.

yes, sabi nila nakahigang buntis na babae. sometimes I can visualize (pag naglalakad ako sa industrial park pag pahapon na, or pag gabi na maliwanag ang buwan :D) pero most of the time hindi. :lol:

cool moon shot? hindi nga po eh. next time full moon naman. or sunset pic sa beach when I got time.

anyway, I just feel like posting this.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/mhe-ann777/P5210068.jpg
taken in Puerto Galera.

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer


North Metro air dirtiest, says DENR


First posted 11:18pm (Mla time) June 29, 2005
By Blanche S. Rivera
Inquirer News Service



Editor's Note: Published on page A19 of the June 30, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer


BREATHE in when you're down south; breathe out when you're up north.

Data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) show that northern Metro Manila is the most polluted part of the metropolis mainly due to traffic congestion.

"The north of Metro Manila is the most polluted," said air quality management chief Cesar Siador Jr. in a media briefing, citing the Environmental Management Bureau's 2004 report.

The amount of pollutants in the air over Valenzuela and Congressional Avenue, between Quezon City and Caloocan, exceeded the acceptable standard, the DENR report said.

Siador pointed out that the entire metropolis for the past two years had breached the long-term acce
ptable level of particulate matter in the air, which is 90 ug/Ncm.

In 2003, Metro Manila had 156 ug/Ncm. This increased by five percent last year or 160 ug/Ncm.

"Most of these areas are traffic-oriented. It shows that the problem is really traffic. Few are caused by
residential factors," Siador said.

He said air quality on Congressional Avenue had deteriorated since 2003 because of rerouting set by the Metro Manila Development Authority. Congressional Avenue has over 250 ug/Ncm.

Siador said buses, which used to ply another road, were already taking Congressional Avenue, where only tricycles used to ply.

Even the Edsa-Taft corner area was heavily polluted, with more than 200 ug/Ncm of particulate matter, the 2004 EMB data showed.

Valenzuela, on the other hand, is affected mostly by meteorological factors. The wind moves very slowly around Valenzuela, unlike in the south, where an open area allows the frequent dilution of pollutants.

Construction work on and near Edsa contributed much to the increase in the particulate matter in the air last year, Siador said.

i felt so calm inside viewing the clouds and the mountains below.. i said to myself...wow! the wonders of God's creations....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/gianavee/manilavisit/IMAG0232.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/gianavee/manilavisit/IMAG0227.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/gianavee/manilavisit/IMAG0214.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/gianavee/manilavisit/IMAG0235.jpg

Lowland Rain-Forest:

Originally the most common type of habitat, tropical lowland rain forest best fits the popular image of rain forest. The largest trees— two to three meters in diameter, not counting the massive supporting buttresses—reach 30 to 40 meters into the canopy, and a few stretch to 60 meters in height. Many of these trees belong to a single family, the dipterocarps, known for the beautifully lustrous wood marketed as "Philippine mahogany." Lianas and other vines reach from the ground to the canopy, providing a natural highway on which monkeys, squirrels, civet-cats, and lizards move from the dark quiet of the forest floor to the sunlight far above. Huge strangler fig trees wrap their tendrils around the branches and trunks of other trees, gradually overwhelming and killing their hosts, but the fig fruit they produce provides much of the food for raucous parrots, giant fruit bats, monkeys, and dozens of insect species. High in the canopy, delicate orchids and ferns grow in profusion, creating small pockets of soil dozens of meters above ground where tiny communities of earthworms, springtails, geckoes, and other species thrive. Surprisingly, the soil on the forest floor is often very thin and rocky because the high temperatures and wet conditions allow for extremely rapid decomposition of leaves and wood. Temperatures in lowland rain-forest almost always remain high, and a breath of wind is as rare on the forest floor as it is ubiquitous in the canopy above. Humidity within the forest rarely drops below 90 percent, even when weeks pass between rainstorms. In a few parts of the Philippines, the dry season lasts long enough that some trees drop their leaves for several months, but in most places the forest remains green and vibrant throughout the year.

thanks for the pictures ate gina. yeah...that's why God is called the Almighty Creator. :)

@simply me: iba talaga ang pakiramdam when you're high above the clouds looking down on earth...wow! thank God for all these:). and thank you for all the photos, gina. i like the first photo a lot...the cloud formation is amazing!!! what type of cloud was that? naisip ko lang bigla...no need to answer:lol:

yes you are RIGHT! lalo na pag nasa top ka tas puro ulap lang makikita mo...WOW! Awesome! tas isipin mo sarili mo. isa lang akong maliit na speck dito sa universe...isang wicked speck for that matter. sigh...

when i was reading the book this morning...i came across something that discusses the acidity of the blood. share ko lang ah...:)
It should be maintained at 7.4 (slightly basic)...and a mere deviation by 1/10 of 1 pH unit is very detrimental to health. might cause one to die. This is maintained in the blood by the presence of carbonate (mainly) and phosphate ions. Pag nagdedeviate and acidity, the blood will adjust by dissolving more carbon dioxide...blah blah blah...The idea lang is...The body is AMAZING! Keeps amazing scientists. Di lang natin na rerealize, that we were created in such an intelligent way by an intelligent creator.

@simply me: iba talaga ang pakiramdam when you're high above the clouds looking down on earth...wow! thank God for all these:). and thank you for all the photos, gina. i like the first photo a lot...the cloud formation is amazing!!! what type of cloud was that? naisip ko lang bigla...no need to answer:lol:

:) i actually collected these kind of photos for my kid's project in Science... all about clouds.. :cheers:

ans: the first one is stratus-cumulus...

WE ARE RICH
By Anabelle E. Plantilla NATURE FOR LIFE Saturday, August 06, 2005

In this time of crisis and turmoil, it is easy to think of ourselves as kawawa, poor or Third World. Take heart, there is one global arena in which we can hold our head high and with pride—biodiversity. The Philippines is recognized by biologists worldwide as a biodiversity paradise. In this respect, we are richer then most First-World countries.

Biodiversity refers to the totality of life forms and the areas that they occupy. Ecosystems, wildlife species and genes are the different levels of biodiversity. It is our biodiversity that provides us with food such as fruits, nuts, grain, honey, spices and meat. Fifty percent to 60 percent of the Filipino’s protein intake comes from fish—from our marine biodiversity. Even domesticated animals and cultivated food originally came from biodiversity. Most houses, furniture and even many clothes are made from natural products. We are not just talking about wood. Oils, resins, waxes, rubber, gums and fibers are also natural products.

Thirty percent of all medicines in the world market were developed from wild plants or animals. It has long been speculated that the cure for cancer or even AIDS might come from the Amazon rainforests. Who knows, they might even be found in our rainforests. When it comes to species diversity, the Philippines has around 15,000 kinds of plants, 50 percent of these are Philippine endemics. Endemics are species that can only be found in our country. One of these endemics is the Magkono, or Philippine Hardwood, which is also the world’s hardest wood. We even have an endemic species of the world’s largest flower, the rafflesia speciosa.

Our natural ecosystems also provide many important ecological functions. Besides their cultural and aesthetic value—which also carry with them the potential for revenue via eco-tourism—the continued protection and preservation of biodiversity in our country also translates to our continued survival and safety as a people. Besides the products mentioned above, our forests alone also purify our air and provide us with clean water.

We are rich indeed. We have 102 species of amphibians, 82 of which are found only in the Philippines. We have 254 species of reptiles, including the world’s largest living reptile, the Saltwater Crocodile; the King Cobra, the world’s largest, terrestrial venomous snake and the Reticulated Python, the world’s longest snake. More than half these species of reptiles—208—are endemic to the Philippines. Of our 179 land mammals, we have 111 endemics. The world’s heaviest bat, the Golden Crowned Flying Fox and the world’s largest bat, the Large Flying Fox are found in the Philippines. The world’s smallest deer, the Mouse Deer is a resident of our archipelago. We have 20,940 insect species, 69.8 percent of which are found only in the Philippines. And our 578 species of birds make us a haven for birdwatchers; 196 of them are endemic, and one of them, the Philippine Eagle, is the largest eagle in the world.

It’s not just our forests that are rich in biodiversity, even our waters are teeming with life. They are home to 2,459 species of fish; 2, 241 species are found in our oceans and 204 are freshwater dwellers. The same goes for the largest sea turtle, the Leatherback Turtle. Sperm Whales, the largest toothed whale and Killer Whales, the largest dolphins swim our seas. So does the smallest baleen whale, the Minke Whale. In our freshwater can be found: the smallest freshwater fish—the Pygmy Gobi and the smallest commercial food fish—the Sinarapan. The Sinarapan can only be found in Lake Buhi, Bicol. Some 22,000 species of mollusks can be found in our waters. We have 7 of the 9 species of Giant Clams, including the rarest, the smallest and the largest. These are the Porcelain, the Boring and the Giant Clam, respectively. Our coral reefs span 30,000 sq km of coral reefs, with 462 recorded species of corals. This makes our coral ecosystem the richest in the world. The second richest is East Papua New Guinea with 380 recorded coral species and the vaunted Great Barrier Reef of Australia comes in only at third place with 350 species. In the entire world, there are only 60 mangrove species, 34 of these species can be found in the Philippines.

We are rich!

AMEN to that! :cheers:

THINK AND GROW RICH!!! AMEN!

I am more interested on preservation efforts, if any.

love sharing some of these..
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a237/menicensimple/samal/IMAG0126.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a237/menicensimple/samal/IMAG0123.jpg

some pix taken at samal island (again..hehe)

and this...
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a237/menicensimple/eden%20pictures/IMAG0198.jpg

http://news.inq7.net/breaking/index.php?index=2&story_id=46215


THE PHILIPPINE Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) will not only be equipped to gauge the strength of typhoons but will also be able to forecast soon if there will be major flooding in parts of the country as well.

Learning from the flash floods that damaged towns in the provinces of Quezon and Southern Leyte, the Office of the President is funding the acquisition of Doppler radar sets that can measure the amount of rain in a raging storm, PAGASA officer-in-charge Graciano P. Yumul Jr. said.

Yumul said the S-band radars PAGASA was currently using allowed it to base its typhoon signals on the wind velocity of an approaching storm. The radars become inadequate however when the storm is not accompanied by strong winds but only by heavy rains, Yumul said.

"This was the case in the recent tragedy in Quezon. PAGASA did not call any storm signals because there were no strong winds although there were non-stop rains that caused the devastating
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floods," Yumul said.

PAGASA had sought 110 million pesos from Malacañang and the National Disaster Management Council to acquire two Doppler radars to be installed in Tagaytay City and Bataan province.

"PAGASA received 110 million pesos from Malacañang and the National Disaster Management Council early this week and we will soon bid out the procurement of the Doppler radars," Yumul said.

He said PAGASA was also negotiating a grant from the Japanese government to acquire five additional Doppler radars to be installed in the Visayas and Mindanao regions.

At the same time, a multi-sectoral task force of representatives from government, the academe, and the Australian Center for International Agriculture Research is set to train local farmers and provincial agriculturists in the use of better weather knowledge to improve farm productivity, Yumul said.

Great News! Hope you can see the weather data online!

Good news! but i would have thought they had them before...:D

Great news indeed! :okay: I remember watching the weather report when I was still a kid and the equipment was pretty primitive back then, they have these magnets shaped like the sun, clouds, rain drops, etc., and they just stick them over a map of the Philippines. :colgate:

^^ Oh yeah--- Before Ernie Baron, there was Amado Pineda: the Legendary Master of Philippine Weather.

good news! at least the government is doing something good. it's worth spending PhP110M pesos for buying doppler radar.

Thank God were getting more accurate weather reports.

Thank God were getting more accurate weather reports.

You know, there was this one time that they were expecting a signal 2 typhoon that day but all we got was scorching temperatures and not a cloud in the sky...

nice photos gina. nature ('yung tranquil) really has a calming effect. and thanks for answering the cloud question:D

@francis: yeah, the human body is really one amazing piece of creation by our Almighty

mula naman po sa villa escudero...
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/villa%20escudero/IMG_0428.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/villa%20escudero/IMG_0376.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/villa%20escudero/IMG_0497.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/villa%20escudero/IMG_0369.jpg



http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/villa%20escudero/IMG_0422.jpg

^^wow!!! pang-poster quality... sarap namang puntahan yan...

@ Dudz: And the hits just keep on coming. :applause:

This pic reminds me of the Wow Philippines campaign which ran on CNN Asia more than a year ago.
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/villa%20escudero/IMG_0376.jpg

Most promising cities in the Philippines are:
Puerto Princesa, Davao, Tagbilaran, Vigan, Malolos, Iligan among others

Most promising cities in the Philippines are:
Puerto Princesa, Davao, Tagbilaran, Vigan, Malolos, Iligan among others

CEBU would be the best best... Infact, recently, a famous Asian criticquing company named Cebu as Asia's Most Livable City in the years to come... According to him this is because of the harmony that exists between the people and their vibrance, the presence of a beach and a mountain in one province so you would be able to sun bathe today and tomorrow, probably sky diving... CEBU also boasts of its urban areas and rural areas among others... Cebu also boasts of its SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM wherein all establishments (schools, malls, churches and even homes) will have to segregate their wastes...

According to him, these makes CEBU No.1!

pls, there's an appropriate thread wherein u could boast ur city... PEACE..

beautiful pics dudz. I would like to request for a sunset photo, taken at any beach here in the Philippines. hehehe.

kay master dudz, bow talaga ako... galing! :cheers: nakakatanggal ng pagod pag tinitingnan ang mga larawan na yun... salamat!

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/villa%20escudero/IMG_0376.jpg


More Than The Usual Highrise... (haahaaaaa ni Bayang Barrios)

More Than The Usual Highrise... (haahaaaaa ni Bayang Barrios)

That's the one I forgot: the ad copy. Tama ka sleepwalker, the theme was something like 'More than the usual...' I loved that one with the waiter running across a solitary dining table on the beach carrying a huge lapu-lapu. If it was alive I wouldn't know. I'm sure even Dudz would be hard pressed looking for something like that. :yes:

It's been a long standing joke that if your order in a restaurant takes so long, they might still be catching the ingredients. That ad just really brings it home.
'What's taking our steamed fish so long?'
Beats me they might still be catching it...
'You're not kidding honey. I think I just saw the waiter run by us with our unfortunate lapu-lapu.'

'More than the usual...' I loved that one with the waiter running across a solitary dining table on the beach carrying a huge lapu-lapu. If it was alive I wouldn't know.

More Than The Usual Fastfood ata yun.

thanks again guys:)

@simply me: it really is a nice place, gina. nothing much to do though...todo pahinga talaga!

@mhe-ann: meron akong mga sunset pix kaya lang puro sa manila bay. but still i think you'll like them. i-post ko later

@power-mad: i also like that 'more than the usual' ad a lot, specially the music!!

@amras: yup, isa yan sa mga nagustuhan ko sa photography...nakakarelax talaga (photography itself and the photos)

@sleepwalker: ano pa ba, dave? "more than the usual" shopping...welcome...smile...double bed...hot tub...stairway(?)...chocolate or kisses? :haha: di na ko sigurado

eto sunset pix mo mhe-ann. manila bay lang muna:) taken from the bay city esplanade

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/sunset/sunset_1713.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/sunset/sunset_1717.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/sunset/sunset_1722.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/sunset/sunset_1759.jpg

whow! salamat. I really love sunset. parang lahat ng nararamdaman ko, frustrations/fears/etc. puede kong ilabas kahit mag-isa lang ako. and it's like God is telling me: I will not leave you... :) drama ba?

i am in-loved with this one.... :)

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/sunset/sunset_1713.jpg

Beautiful!

sir dudz, ginamit ko po un 3rd photo sa friendster ko. hehe. D

Well, Manila is a very polluted city, with regards to any kind of pollution. I just realized from a few treks that I cannot commute regularly. I had to have my car tuned up yesterday, and a simple commute from las pinas to my house in bf proved to be pretty nasty. on the jeep, I just couldn't stand the pollution. When the bus in front of us starts belching, I can only gasp for air in horror. The trike ride inside bf wasn't that great, either. It was morning, so there were lots of cars spewing their stuff. It was only when I got to my house that I was able to breathe nicely again.

Maybe I've been sheltered from the pollution too much, but then I realized that the years that I had to put up with pollution because of school stuff were the years in which I was ALWAYS sick.

And that's just me. What about the jeepney drivers? After being exposed to air pollution almost 24/7, don't they have any lung complications? Street kids and street vendors, too, do they suffer? I'm curious. And I'm not asthmatic, either.

stunning.!

WOW pamatay katalaga sir dudz!!! grabe ang ganda!!! i need to get back to the phils and take some pics like that, i want to test out my new camera, my old one has been depleted! what camera do you use again, is it SLR?

:haha: pamatay ba?! delikado, baka makalaboso tayo nyan!:haha: nway, i'm just using a compact canon digicam, wala pa tayong pambili ng slr eh. but even with this digicam marami pa akong dapat matutunan. thanks nga pala, also to mhe-ann, lili, gina and rodney:)

@mhe-ann: sure mhe-ann, if that would help:)

Grabe dudz!! Wala na akong masabi.. You're a pro in photography! Really! Those pics talk! They're one of a kind... I particularly love the one where you can see the trees' reflection on the water...

so what do they say?! :haha: :jk: thanks cirqular. here's a night shot of that lake...

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/villa%20escudero/IMG_0401.jpg

^^ bravo!!! :applause: dudz, pa-autograph..

Well you're pretty lucky for having a cheuffeur(don't know the spelling) living in an ac gated mansion. For all the unfortunate Metro manilians who rely on public transportation from point Ato B like yousaid it is quite a horror story. Politicians and church leaders don't have to deal with public transport So they have no cares.

i know this may sound weird but I kinda miss the pollution there in Manila. Everytime I go back home, I would try to ride an ordinary bus going to Lawton then back to Munti and just savor all the "usok" and "alikabok". That was fun. :)

^ My goodness! That is one thing I don't miss about Manila, plus the begging children and those sniffing glues in nooks and crannies by the sidewalks, and also the holduppers and pickpockets (meron pa ba nito?).

Yeah, these days, whenever I go back to Manila I always end up with a sore throat because of the pollution. I definitely don't miss this. When I worked there a few years ago, I used to commute to work everyday (from Makati to Manila). I took a combination of jeepney and LRT. But by the end of the day, my white shirts would all look grey and dirty from the pollution. Blargh.

grabe talaga. paano ba magpa-autograph kay sir dudz? di ko pa alam first name nya. haha. basta alam ko lan pag sinabing dudz, excellent photographer papasok sa isip mo. hehe. treat mo naman kami. hahaha.

Yeah, these days, whenever I go back to Manila I always end up with a sore throat because of the pollution. I definitely don't miss this. When I worked there a few years ago, I used to commute to work everyday (from Makati to Manila). I took a combination of jeepney and LRT. But by the end of the day, my white shirts would all look grey and dirty from the pollution. Blargh.

wow u even managed to work in pnas coming from states, is the salary the same as what they pay you here

all, i can really say very humid even december feels like summer

No it was actually working for free. I was doing my practicum in the Philippines.

There's no doubt about Manila Pollution.

FYI: Manila Pollution Level is constantly hovering around 120PSI (particles per square inch if im not wrong) and according to world research 100PSI above is a health hazard.

Here in Singapore their PSI level is hovering @ 20-30PSI when it reaches 60PSI they already consider it unhealthy and alot of people are gettin admitted to hospitals. It would usually reach 100-120PSI during summer here thanks to the forest fires from Sumatra Island in Indonesia.

According to research, Pollution in Manila is one of the biggest cause of road rage because of the very high Lead content in the Air. It affects our Branies.

Everytime im in Manila I would always notice the crude oil coted streets and the Air smells like Diesel. I will always get alot of itches and rashes. I only last for 3days there and im already itchin to go home to Bicol. There, Air is heaven.

I just hope our officials really have the real heart to serve our people. This is a very simple problem. But coz of polliticking everything is taken foregranted.

:cheer: that was awesome dudz...:bow: pa-register na ko as ur humble photography student.... :colgate:

A no-car day would do wonders for Manila's pollution, albeit for a short period. Though imagine the number of i) pissed off commuters ii) fatigued pedestrians iii) people who quadruple their income from driving people in their padyaks and iv) the number of sunburnt people. lol.:D

How did I come with Manila's pollution... well we lived in South MM so it wasn't that bad. But when in the city center I mostly stayed indoors. That's why a lot of people still prefer indoor malls.

The LPG powered buses will do a lot to bring this down, will just take a few years to implements, similar to the US before unleaded. Ironically it's better now, while you still see polluting vehicles there's much less of them. Same with the factories. One other factor is that it's a big function of very high density and poverty. This si truly MM worst feature.

^ My goodness! That is one thing I don't miss about Manila, plus the begging children and those sniffing glues in nooks and crannies by the sidewalks, and also the holduppers and pickpockets (meron pa ba nito?).

sorry na po... kanya-kanya lang po tayo ng trip... hehehe :jk:

^^ Haha. Sir Dudz groupies.

our mama (actually the oldest of lola) shes like 82. anyways she migrate here around her mid 60s but she goes back there once in every two years for just a month sometimes even less because of her asthma. she was planning to settle there but the condition of manila didnt allow here. she would get a really bad asthma attack

our mama (actually the oldest of lola) shes like 82. anyways she migrate here around her mid 60s but she goes back there once in every two years for just a month sometimes even less because of her asthma. she was planning to settle there but the condition of manila didnt allow here. she would get a really bad asthma attack
Well why didn't she try staying outside metro manila like in the province . I'm sure they have better air there.

^^ she rather choose a ka-tsismisan than her health, she said. besides, she was raised in sampaloc all her life, i dont think any1 would move to province especially in that age. saka our house has been there for almost century magagalit daw yung pinakalolo naming dedo pag pinagbili :crazy2:

:runaway: Air pollution in Metro Manila is quite heavy....

First: I usually go out of our house before 6 am

Second : I usually carry hankerchief

^ Handkerchief is very important there to cover your mouth and nose.

@ tigidig: we have the same reason for holding on to our Sampaloc property. My lola was simply so attached to it.

@ amras: no need to be apologetic about it. feel free to pick your poison :)

Hey the Sampaloc club. We are also holding on to our property in Sampaloc. We've had it since before WWII.

Oh wow. I'm from Sampaloc too. hahaha. I didn't really notice the pollution in Manila. What I did notice more was the smell of garbage and sewer when ever we would pass by the poor sections of Manila.

madami ring palang taga sampaloc d2, totoong manila

Welcome sinampalokan, so medyo maasim asim kayo ha, do not be surprised when Manila's largest district starts growing skyscrapers, should start to happen soon near the metro stops! mabuhay.

Sige, dapat may Sampaloc trip tayo sa next GT! :)

ok, para sa inyong apat, sama ka na rin lili...here's my autograph! :haha:

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y91/imagesaver1206/dudzautograph.jpg