RP hosts first Dia del Galeon

In commemoration of the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade, the Philippines is all set to host the first ever Dia del Galeon Festival 2010 from September 15 to October 15.

With UNESCO's proclamation that October 8 shall be celebrated as Dia del Galeon, the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) spearheads this month-long festival in honor of the Philippines active role in one of the most significant trade routes in history.

Together with the Baler 400 Steering Committee headed by Senator Edgardo Angara, the NCCA organized several activities, workshops lectures, and seminars to help Filipinos, especially the youth, to become aware of the history of Galleon Trade.

Some of the workshops include Spanish Dances, Literature and Language Workshops, and Playwriting Workshop. Lectures like Chinese Trade in the Philippines, Lecture Tour of Heritage Collections at the National Museum, and Overview of the Galleon Trade History and the People of the Galleon are also included.

Two other countries that were involved in the trade, Mexico and Spain, also took part in the celebrations and festivities of the commemoration.

"We would like to resurrect the central feature of our history with the Dia del Galeon Festival and reunite the three continents which participated in the exchange of goods and culture," said Sen. Edgardo Angara, chairman of the Dia del Galeon Steering Committee.

The festival officially opened with the arrival of the Andalucia, a replica of the Spanish galleon, at Pier 13, South Harbor, Manila last October 6. Guests are allowed to climb on board and view the Galleon Museum.

"We are hoping Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim will organize school children to visit the galleon," Angara said.

"When visitors come to see the galleon, they will see how sailors lived and how they worked. Visitors will feel like they are in the real galleon and not just a replica galleon. We hope that people will enjoy the experience," said Ignacio Fernandez Vial of Fundacion Nao Victoria.

Another staff from the Fundacion Nao Victoria said that everything in the galleon today is an exact replica of the original, except for the crew quarters where they added beds to it.

UNESCO has passed a resolution declaring a “global observance” would be celebrated every October 8 each year. Dia del Galeon Festival 2010 is supported by the NCCA, National Museum, Instituto Cervantes, and the Spanish Embassy.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:
Ong, Czarina Nicole, The Manila Bulletin. RP Hosting 1st 'Dia del Galeon' (Posted September 16, 2010) from
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/277409/rp-hosting-1st-dia-del-galeon

Lapena, Carmela, GMANews.TV. NCCA to Hold Dia del Galeon Festival in RP.
(Posted July 16, 2010) from
http://www.gmanews.tv/story/196257/ncca-to-hold-dia-del-galeon-festival-in-rp

National Commission on Culture and the Arts
http://www.ncca.gov.ph/about-ncca/dia-del-galeon/dia-del-galeon.php

Philippines Tourism Sustained Growth – DOT Report

Close to four million tourists visited the Philippines from January to May of this year, a 5.37% growth compared to last year's period, Department of Tourism (DoT) report said recently.

Based from the latest statistics from the DoT, Metro Manila is the most visited destination in the Philippines, with 848,518 foreign tourists staying in accomodation facilities found in the area, followed by Cebu which posted a 4.34% growth for the first five months of 2010. RP's famed beach destination, Boracay Island, landed third with 378,694 visitors from January to May, posting a 12.15% growth rate. Boracay is followed by Camarines Sur, Baguio, and Davao City.

Puerto Princesa City in Palawan posted the biggest growth rate in all provincial tourist destination with 35.12 percent. For the first five months of 2010, nearly 74,000 tourist have visited the city, primarily to see the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a consistent top candidate in the New 7 Wonders of Nature campaign.

The DoT reports also stated that a total of 80 new accommodation facilities are expected to be opened by the end of 2010 to accommodate the growing number of local and foreign tourist visiting various destinations in the country. By 2012, 57 more will be added to the total accommodation facilities in the Philippines.

In a statement, DoT Secretary Joseph 'Ace' Durano said, “The DoT has laid down the foundations for sustained growth in tourist arrivals and investments in select destinations over the past years, creating opportunities for increased local employment and harnessing entrepreneurial capabilities of local government units and the private sector to venture into and create new tourism products and services.”

Sec. Durano added that the full implementation of the Tourism Act of 2009 will strengthen the power of DoT and spearhead the development, promotion, and conservation of the tourism areas in the country.

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BiyahengPinas.com thanks the following sources for this article:
Department of Tourism. First Five Months Report – Philippine Tourism: Sustaining Growth Momentum for the Future. (Posted June 23, 2010) Retrieved June 28, 2010 from
http://www.tourism.gov.ph/Pages/IndustryPerformance.aspx

Jaymalin, Mayen, The Philippine Star. DOT reports 5.37% tourist growth (Posted June 25, 2010) Retrieved June 28, 2010 from
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=587311&publicationSubCategoryId=87

Lontayao, Rommel, The Manila Times. Tourist volume up in first five months – DOT (Posted June 24, 2010) Retrieved June 28, 2010 from
http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/nation/20110-tourist-volume-up-in-first-five-months--dot?fontstyle=f-smaller

Philstar.com. Tourists increase in first 5 months – DOT (Posted June 24, 2010) Retrieved June 28, 2010 from
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=587262&publicationSubCategoryId=200

Pinoys Push Pedals Anew at Bike Festival Asia 2010

Filipino bikers from all over the country will again push pedals during the Bike Festival Asia 2010 to be held on May 21 – 22, 2010 at Terrazas de Punta Fuego in Nasugbu, Batangas.

The event aims to boost tourism in Southern Luzon and promote wellness and active lifestyle. This annual event is co-presented by the Department of Tourism (DoT) and Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) (formerly Philippine Tourism Authority).

Competition is open to all bikers age 18 - 55 years old. Interested participants may register at L.E.N. Plus Inc., Unit F, Lower Ground Floor, CT. Center Building, 520 Shaw Blvd., cor. Old Wack Wack St., Mandaluyong City. Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon barbeque will be provided for all registered participants. Registration starts on May 10 to May 17, 2010.

For more information, contact L.E.N. Plus, Inc., at (632) 532-9443 or email lenplus@pldtdsl.net.

JFM Stages 2010 Nihongo Fiesta at Mall of Asia

Immerse yourself into the fascinating world of Japanese culture on February 27, 2010, as the Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) and SM Mall of Asia, hold the 2010 Nihongo Fiesta at the SM Mall of Asia Cinema and Main Mall Atrium.

The annual festival, which promotes international cultural and arts exchange between Japan and the Philippines, will include a highly-anticipated Nihongo speech contest, a fun and hip Japanese and Filipino Street Fashion Exhibit and Contest, and an exciting J-Rock (Japanese rock) Concert.

Filipino students and professionals who want to show off their linguistic skills in Nihongo are invited to join the 37th Nihongo Speech Contest and get a chance to win an all-expense paid week-long study tour in Japan. In line with JFM’s objective of promoting cultural exchange through Japanese Language Education, participants are required to deliver their own original compositions on a subject of their choice. High School Nihongo beginners, on the other hand, can participate in the 2nd Nihongo Quiz Bee for High School Students to showcase their knowledge in Japanese language and culture. Both contests will be held in Cinema 2 of Mall of Asia; from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Aside from showcasing the Japanese language, the Nihongo Fiesta will also put on display the stylish and edgy characters that descend the streets of Tokyo in the Japanese and Filipino Street Fashion Exhibit and Contest. The trendy Tokyoites are captured in a photo exhibition along with Manila’s very own interpretation of street fashion through the watchful eyes of Filipino fashion designer and style blogger Cecile Zamora Van Straten, and curated by Team Manila. Guests are invited to express their individuality, dress up in their street style best, and turn the hallways of Mall of Asia into urban center catwalks on February 27. Roving “style scouts” will choose the best dressed and the winner will take home a cash prize and Japanese fashion products. The Japanese and Filipino Street Fashion Exhibit and Contest will run from February 22 to 28 in the Main Mall Atrium of SM Mall of Asia.

Finally, cap off the Nihongo Fiesta festivities in the evening with fantastic music and dancing at the J-Rock Concert featuring the influential Japanese punk-pop-rock band Shonen Knife. Fresh from their US tour, the all-female group, which has gained a worldwide cult following, will rock out with the country’s all-male dunk (dance and punk) band, Pedicab in a one-night only free concert at Mall of Asia’s San Miguel by the Bay from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm.

The 2010 Nihongo Fiesta is supported by the following media partners: Manila Bulletin, NU 107 and ClicktheCity.com.

Admission is free to all 2010 Nihongo Fiesta events. For inquiries, contact the JFM at (632) 811-6155 or email email@jfmo.org.ph or visit their website at www.jfmo.org.ph.

Ballooning Goes To New Heights at 15th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Hot air balloons paint the sky once again for the 15^th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF). This dazzling event will be staged at the Clarkfield Economic Zone in Pampanga on February 11-14, 2010.

The PIHABF is an annual event featuring balloons from all over the world. Over the years, it has become a convention of sorts including aerosports and other aviation-related pursuits.

Tagged as the “Weekend of Everything That Flies”, viewers will be treated to a spectacular air show featuring regular and special-shaped hot air balloons coming from all over the world. Other activities include skydiving exhibitions, paragliding, aerobatics, airplane and helicopter flybys, balloon-bursting competitions, professional kite flying, remote control aircraft displays and a whole lot more! There will also be ground activities like food courts and fly markets, car exhibitions, army aircraft and gear displays, aviation schools exhibits, photo contests and other exciting events. It’s definitely a treat for the whole family.

The 15th PIHABF will also stage the 2010 Aviation Awards, which aims to recognize several outstanding people who exemplify the highest standards of flying and service, or have made extraordinary contributions to the aerospace industry in the year 2009. The recipients of the 2010 Aviation Awards will be honored at the awards ceremony and dinner scheduled on February 13, 2010.

The 15th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is sponsored by United Parcel Service (UPS), Krukspec Tactical Gear, Marquee Mall, Asian Air Safari, Angeles City Four Wheelers Club http://216.55.144.142/ac, DSV Logistics, Caltex, Cebu Pacific Air, Circus Aircraft, Global Gateway Logistics City, Yellow Cab Pizza, Ayala Malls, Recreational Outdoor Exchange (R.O.X.), Clark Development Corporation, Diosdado Macapagal International Airport, Air Force City, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Philippine National Police.

For more information and a detailed schedule of activities, contact Asian Air Safari at (632) 384-0085, (63927) 340-4994 or visit the event website at http://www.philballoonfest.net.

CCP Sets Stage for First Philippine Guitar Fest

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and The Guitar Friends will hold the First Philippine International Guitar Festival 2010 from January 28 to 31 at the CCP in Pasay City. With the objective of promoting the Classical Guitar, the festival offers exciting musical performances by outstanding guitarists from the Philippines and abroad.

Maestro Jose Valdez, who is considered to be one of the best guitar teachers in the country, is the director of the Festival. Maestro Valdez, who has 35 years of teaching experience, is a lecturer and professor at the University of the Philippines, Philippine Women’s University, St. Scholastica’s College, Philippine National University, La Concordia College and St. Paul University. He is a pioneer of all major guitar courses in most schools in the Philippines. The CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Arts ranks him as one of the pioneers of classical guitar in the country.

Among those performing in the Festival are Mr. Steve Lin, Mr. Michael Dadap, Mr. Jose Valdez, Mr. Perfecto de Castro, Mr. Sixto Roxas, Mr. Kasilag Guitar Trio, Tabs, UP Guitar Orchestra, Fundacion Centro Flamenco and the winners of the National Music Competitions for Young Artists 2009 Guitar Category. More artists and groups, including the Manila Symphony Orchestra, are expected to be added to the list of performers in the Festival. One of the highlights of the Festival will be the concert by a Spanish guitar soloist to be brought in by Instituto Cervantes.

Mr. Steve Lin is a renowned international artist who has concertized throughout the US, Italy, the Philippines and Taiwan. An award winning guitarist and a recording artist, Mr. Lin teaches guitar at the San Jose State University and Northern California School of Music. He has a master’s degree from Yale School of Music and is completing his doctorate at the New England Conservatory under Eliot Fiske.

Mr. Michael Dadap has been artistic/music director and conductor of The Children’s Orchestra Society since 1984. He studied at UP, the Mannes College of Music and the Juilliard School. As a conductor, he has conducted and collaborated with some of the world’s most renowned concert artists. As an accomplished classical guitarist, he made his Carnegie Hall debut in 1974 and has since performed in numerous concerts internationally.

Mr. Sixto “Butch” Roxas is a highly respected guitarist currently helping reestablish as well as playing for the UST Jazz Orchestra together with conductor/saxophonist Mr. Tots Tolentino. He studied at the famed Berklee College of Music in Boston and took guitar courses in various institutions abroad such as the Schola Cantorum in Paris and in Barcelona, Spain with Maestro Josep Henriquez under a grant from the Agencia Española. He is a faculty member of the UST Conservatory of Music.

Mr. Perfecto de Castro is hailed as one of the best Filipino guitarists. A graduate of PWU School of Music, he studied with Maestro Jose Valdez. The Laudarra, or the Ten String Classical Guitar, is Castro’s instrument of choice. He has collaborated with composers all over the world to add to the repertoire of the Ten String Guitar. He is a founding member of the Kasilag Guitar Quartet.

Fundacion Centro Flamenco is an organization dedicated to the promotion of the art of flamenco music and dance.

The Guitar Friends, which is spearheading the Festival, is composed of guitar aficionados of varying levels of expertise in guitar performance brought together by their love for guitar and their association with Maestro Jose Valdez, the Festival director. The Guitar Friends support the Guitar Immersion Program of Maestro Valdez and conducts activities such as campus concerts and master classes.

The 1st Philippine International Guitar Festival 2010 will offer master classes and lectures on topics such as “Building a Performing Career,” “Flamenco,” “A Guitarist’s Pain,” “Jazz Improvisation,” “Ensemble Playing” and “Musicality, Intelligence and Technique.” The Festival will also feature booths and displays by guitar makers and manufacturers.

The 1st Philippine International Guitar Festival 2010 is sponsored by CCP, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), SMART Communications, Inc., and Rudolf Lietz, Inc.

For details, call (63917) 526-6377, (63920) 498-2720, (63915) 921-3440, e-mail philguitarfest@gmail.com or visit http://philguitarfest.blogspot.com.

Pampanga on 1st Horse Fest ‘09

The City of Pampanga celebrated their Horse Fest 2009: 1st Annual Clark Freeport Horse Festival from November 28 to 30, 2009 at the Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga.

It was an event-filled weekend participated by serious horse enthusiasts, families and regular visitors that joined and watched the polo matches and equestrian competitions as well as tilbury races. Moreover, carriage rides, magic and puppet shows, family games and contests at the Trade & Food Fair, free lessons on feeding and grooming of horses, and free lessons on basic horse riding were enjoyed by the participating children.

The first day was started by Grand Parade from El Kabayo towards Clark Parade Grounds followed by the Trade and Food Fair and the Polo Competition at the Clark Parade Grounds. In the afternoon, the Clark Picnic Grounds showcased the Equestrian Competition, and the day was ended by a Grand Fireworks Display. The second and third day was the continuation of the Equestrian Competition and the Trade & Food Fair, also with the Tilbury Races at the Speedway Venue.

The event was hosted by the Clark Development Corporation (CDC), Greater Clark Visitors Bureau (GCVB) and the Clark Freeport Tourism Association (CFTA).

Empowering Ilocos’ Culture

The Museo Ilocos Norte staged Ray-Aw: Christmas in Ilocos last December 4, 2009 at the Rockwell Tent in Makati City, and the 8th Annual Governor’s Gala, on the other hand, was held at Ilocos Norte Convention Center last November 14, 2009.

Ray-aw is the Ilocos word for “celebration” and through this festival, the Museo Ilocos Norte shared with the guests various customs and traditions that are uniquely Ilocano.

To bring home the experience, a bazaar featuring Ilocano crafts and delicacies were presented to the public. The bazaar featured the famous Abel Iloco (handwoven fabrics), Intricate Ilocano Baskets and delicacies such as Empanadang Iloko, Sukang Iloco, Cornick and Bagnet. The visitors also experienced Ilocano cuisine presented and prepared by Ms. Glenda Barretto of Via Mare and Claude Tayag.

The proceeds of Ray-Aw and the Bazaar will benefit outreach programs of the Museo Ilocos Norte. The museum was primarily designed to instill a sense of pride for the Ilocanos, Yapayaos, Itnegs and other citizens of the province. It aims to create a feeling of belonging for their ancient homeland.

The 8th Annual Governor's Gala, on the other hand, is one of the most anticipated events in the province. One of the event's highlights was the awarding of the Gameng Lifetime Achievement Award, which is given to three ilocanos who have contributed their exceptional talent, creativity, and skill in the enrichment of the Ilocano culture and tradition.

Carla Diaz de Rivera (0917-9621414, 0922-8891142, rayaw.ilocosnorte@yahoo.com) was in charge of the overall event preparation.

Local, International Musicians Take Part in San Agustin International Music Festival

The finest musicians from here and abroad will once again grace the San Agustin International Music Festival, the premiere musical event in Intramuros, Manila, scheduled on November 25 to 27, 2009 at the San Agustin Church.

Now on its eleventh edition, guests will be treated to the majestic sound of the 18th-century pipe organ, the country’s biggest Filipino-Spanish baroque organ which was restored in 1998 and premiered in the inaugural San Agustin music fest in 1999.

Taking center stage in this year’s concert are Spanish lady organist Ana Aguado Rojo and Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra principal clarinetist Ariel Sta. Ana who will both perform in the three evening concerts.

According to San Agustin Museum director Fr. Pedro Galende, this year’s concert series is doubly special because it marks the festival’s 10^th anniversary and the first time to feature a lady organist.

The concert opens on November 25 with Ms. Rojo’s rendition of rare 16^th-century Spanish organ pieces, Mr. Sta. Ana’s Concerto No. 3 by Carl Stamitz, and the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers under choirmaster Mark Anthony Carpio interpreting classical well-loved choral works.

Ms. Rojo and Mr. Sta. Ana return on November 26 with mostly Baroque organ and clarinet music, to be followed by the award-winning Kilyawan Boys Choir, singing under the baton of Mark Anthony Carpio.

The Festival draws to a close on November 27 with a powerhouse performance of Beethoven’s regal Ninth Symphony (Ode to Joy) by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra under Maestro Ruggero Barbieri. Featured soloists are soprano Rachelle Gerodias, New York-based Filipino baritone Andrew Fernando, Italian tenor Gian Luca Pasolini and Italian alto Simona Forni. Joining the Philippine Madrigal Singers, are other Madz et. al choirs - Coro de Sta. Cecilia, Coro Animo, College of the Immaculate Conception Chorale, and Maryknoll Sanctuary Choir.

The 11th San Agustin International Music Festival is sponsored by the Embassy of Spain, Agencia Española Cooperación Internaciónal para el Desarollo, Instituto Cervantes, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Cultural Center of the Philippines, Embassy of the Republic of Italy in the Philippines, DZFE 98.7 The Master’s Touch, Traders Hotel Manila, Philippine Italian Association, L’Incontro Ristorante Italiano, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Department of Tourism, and the Friends of San Agustín Museum.

For more information about the event, contact San Agustin Museum at (632) 526-6793 to 94 or 527-4060 to 61, or email samuseum@zpdee.net.

Ring of Fire: The First Southeast Asian Ceramics Festival

As part of the Zero in Periphery Series 2009, 16 Filipino potters and 10 other Southeast Asian ceramic artists showcased their works in the international exhibit entitled Ring of Fire at the Ayala Museum last September 21 to October 4, 2009. The said convergence of ASEAN potters in Makati was the first of its kind in the Philippines.

The 64-works display by the master potters in the region testified to the intensity, passion, and peculiar identity of ASEAN ceramic artists. Influenced by ceramic artists from China, Japan, South Korea, and Australia, they are now drawing fire from each other.

Among the renowned ASEAN potters who participated in the event were Ahadiat Joedawinata of Indonesia; Peter Low, James Seet, Lileng Wong, and Yeow Seng Cheah of Malaysia; Teck Heng Tan and Thomas Cheong of Singapore; Bathma Kaew-Ngok of Thailand; and Bao Toan Nguyen of Vietnam.

Participating Filipino potters included Jon and wife Tessie Pettyjohn of Pansol; Hadrian and wife Camille Mendoza of Makiling; Jaime de Guzman of Candelaria, Quezon; Colorado-based Nelfa Querubin of Iloilo; Manila-based sculptress Julie Lluch of Iligan; Pete Cortes of Bulacan; Pablo Capati of Batangas; Joe Geraldo of Bacolod; Mark Valenzuela of Dumaguete; Winnie Go and Joey de Castro of Makati; Siegrid Bangyay and Lope Bosaing of Sagada.

The participants of the ASEAN show also interacted in a two-day ceramics workshop, which was a great venue for them to exchange information and discuss individual techniques and the creative process of their works. It was also held at the Ayala Museum, particularly at the Luna and Amorsolo rooms, last September 22 and 23.

Ceramic artist Hadrian Mendoza, recipient of a Toyota Foundation networking grant in November 2007, convened and organized this event with the primary goal of “fostering a community among Southeast Asian peoples that celebrates both the diversity and unity of the region through the art and craft of pottery.”

Mendoza hopes for the continuity and expansion of the communications that he has established among fellow ASEAN potters. He has touched base with contemporary potters in Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, and is searching for more modern practitioners of the ancient art of pottery in Brunei and Myanmar. He has also connected with various communities of potters in the Philippines. A website for the project has been created: http://www.seapots.com, which aims to increase active exchanges among the region’s potters.

Ring of Fire was sponsored by Toyota Foundation Japan, Philippine High School for the Arts, Filipino Web Services, and Crown Plastic Products, Inc.

Ring of Fire was Ayala Museum’s choice for 2009’s Zero-In consortium project of the Philippine’s leading private museums. Aside from the Ring of Fire, other scheduled exhibits by participating museums were as follows:

• “Beyond Frame: Philippine Photomedia”
Ateneo Art Gallery
Ateneo de Manila University, Katipunan Avenue, Loyola Heights, Quezon City
October 1, 2009 - December 15, 2009
http://gallery.ateneo.edu/

• “Deleted Scenes”
Lopez Memorial Museum
Ground Floor of Benpres Building, Exchange Road corner Meralco Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City
November 12, 2009 - January 9, 2010
http://www.lopezmuseum.org.ph/

• “Remembering the Atrocities of War”
Bahay Tsinoy
Kaisa-Angelo King Heritage Center, 32 Anda corner Cabildo Streets, Intramuros
November 12, 2009 - January 9, 2010
http://www.bahaytsinoy.org/

• “Invisible Children”
Museo Pambata
Roxas Boulevard corner South Drive, City of Manila
November 26, 2009 - January 5, 2010
http://www.museopambata.org/

Now on its eighth year, Zero-In has focused attention on the strengths of the member museum’s professional expertise, collections, and programming, proposing dynamic alternatives for institutional support and cooperation. Zero-In is a celebration of different art niches in different locations aiming to instill not just the love for our culture but the appreciation of the past and its impact on how we are today as a people. For more info, visit www.zeroinmuseums.org.

Ayala Museum is located at De la Rosa St. corner Makati Ave., Greenbelt Park, Makati City. For more information, you may reach them at (632) 757 7117 to 21, email at museuminquiry@ayalamuseum.org, or visit www.ayalamuseum.org.

2009 Visayas Island Invention Exhibit Festival Winners Announced

The Department of Science and Technology together with the Technology Application and Promotion and Institute (TAPI) and the Visayas Inventors Association (VIA) formally announced the winners of the 2009 Visayas Island Invention Exhibit Festival last October 4, 2009 at the Ayala Activity Center in Cebu City.

With the theme “Inventions: Responding to Global Challenges”, the event aims to promote the innovativeness and creativity of Visayan inventors.

Four entries won among the seventeen (17) official entries coming from the different parts of the Visayas regions. First and second prize was awarded to Engr. Noro S. Camomot for “Joyski-The Motorcycle Driven Jet Ski” and “NJ8-The Noro Wave Power Barge” while Mr. Jesselito V. Baring’s “Cyclonic Grease Stripping Column” got the third place for the Creative Research Category (Likha Award).

For the Student Creative Research Category (Sibol Award), first prize was given to Mr. Mark Jay Rivas from the University of San Carlos for “Sagassum as a Ceramic Flux in Conserving Energy”.

Prizes include P15000, P10000, and P5000 for the first, second, and third with certificates of recognition plus the chance to qualify for the upcoming 2009 National Invention Contest in November 16-20, 2009 at the Philippine Trade Training Center in Pasay City.

Other qualifying entries for the 2009 National Invention Contest include: Cyclone 5-The Multi Stage Package Type Smokestack, NJ6-The Floating Cottage with Wave Power Generator, Modular Furniture Segment, and Plastic Biodiesel Home Brewer.

For more information contact the DOST Region 7 office at (6332) 232-86-32 or visit their website at www.ro7.dost.gov.ph

Three New Shows Co-locate at 50th Manila F.A.M.E. International

On its 50th edition, Asia’s Best Design Destination, the Manila Furnishings and Apparel Manufacturers Exchange International (Manila F.A.M.E.) will be held October 15-18, 2009 in two venues— SMX Convention Center and World Trade Center— offering three new shows that put the spotlight on Filipino creativity with its design and quality-driven products that meet global standards.

Ever growing and ever expanding, the bi-annual trade show for home and lifestyle products has always been at the forefront of innovation. Attuned to the international market trends as well as consumer demands, the show continues to evolve in order to meet these demands and open doors to more local manufacturers further strengthening the Philippines’ position as a source of high-quality products and services.

“This Golden Edition of Manila F.A.M.E. International is extra special. It opens in two venues to accommodate [our growing number of] exhibitors and to answer the clamor of our buyers asking for more of the unique and new products from the Philippines,” said Ms. Thelma Dumpit-Murillo, Over-all Project Director of Manila F.A.M.E. and Deputy Executive Director of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry. Aside from holding the 50th Manila F.A.M.E. in two separate venues, three new shows have been created within the said event.

Fashion revolution at FashioNation
Philippine fashion has grown by leaps and bounds over the last decade with young designers armed with fresh ideas and diverse design aesthetic leading the revolution.

Manila F.A.M.E., in its bid to invigorate and fortify the fashion industry, is launching a new show. Dubbed FashioNation, the show will house manufacturers of garments, textile, footwear, and fashion complements such as accessories and bags all export products with exceptional design and craftsmanship.

Also among the highlights of FashioNation include the daily fashion shows that will feature, among others, designer collections and eco-chic apparel. See new collections of established as well as up-and-coming local fashion designers that have wowed international design communities worldwide in the show’s Designer Lane.

Students of fashion schools and colleges will have a chance to show off their talents as well in a design competition with a theme, “The Green Scene: Eco-Pinoy Fashion.” The contest requires a modern yet timeless interpretation of the Philippines— it’s culture, heritage, and people— using recycled, natural, and indigenous materials.

Art and Soul at ART:MNL
ART:MNL is the first-ever venue to internationally showcase the artworks of Filipino contemporary artists. Leading art galleries as well as renowned and emerging artists come together to make available masterful pieces to interested local and foreign buyers.

Aside from this stimulating visual display, the show will also hold seminars and workshops that aim to expand participants’ knowledge on the arts, cultivate an eye for beauty, gather information on art conservation, and serve as a venue to meet the masters. Chosen artists will also get the chance to participate in a close door nude sketching session; their masterpieces put up for sale afterwards.

ART:MNL is a preview to the Philippine International Art Fair 2010. The show is done in collaboration with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), Committee on Visual Arts of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Metropolitan Museum of the Philippines, National Museum, Intellectual Property Office, Bonafide Art Galleries Association, Contemporary Art Philippines, and Art Association of the Philippines.

Go Natural at the Philippine Health and Wellness Show
Wellness has been among almost everyone’s priority list, and Manila F.A.M.E. answers this demand for the body’s well being with the Philippine Health and Wellness Show which offers natural, herbal, and organic personal care products. Lemon grass essences and massage oils, VCO-based soaps and balms, and soy-based aromatherapy candles are only some of the all-natural, eco-lifestyle products offered in the show. Also featured are spa services, alternative healing modalities, centers for specialized healthcare, and retirement destinations.

For more information on Manila F.A.M.E. International, visit www.manilafame.com, or contact Manila F.A.M.E. Secretariat at (632) 833-1258, 831-1265 or email manilafame@citem.com.ph.

Environmental Films Showcased at First Green Film Festival

Four (4) films touching on planet-related issues were featured at The 1^st Green Film Festival held at SM North EDSA on September 23, 2009. The movies shown at Cinema 4 of SM The Block were a combination of American and Filipino films aimed at creating awareness about the serious problems our planet Earth is currently facing and what can people do about it.

Spearheaded by the SM Cares' SM Environment Committee, in partnership with Unico Home Entertainment, Solar Entertainment Corporation (official United International Pictures distributor in the Philippines), Warner Bros. Pictures, Magnavision and SM Cinema, the Green Film Festival highlighted environmental issues, such as climate change, scarcity of water, environmental decay, and the need for people and nations to work together for a sustainable future.

Joining the SM Environment Committee for the Green Film Festival are the embassies of France, Japan and The Netherlands which contributed films shown during the event.

Some of the films shown during the festival were:

• The 11^th Hour, which was released in 2007 and narrated by Leonardo di Caprio. The movie presented visionary and practical solutions to restore the planet’s ecosystems;
• Home, a depiction of how the Earth's problems are all interlinked;
• Penguin, Penguin Paano Ka Ginawa is the Filipino version of the French documentary March of the Penguins, narrated by Sharon Cuneta. It followed the journey of a penguin to its breeding spot in Antarctica; and
• Abong (Small Home), which is a Filipino-Japanese art and cultural film about the Igorots of Mt. Province.

The movies Home and The 11th Hour were also shown at SM Megamall last September 30 along with Al Gore’s documentary, An Inconvenient Truth, and British Broadcasting Corporation’s Planet Earth. Screenings were also held at SM Mall of Asia last October 7, 2009.

The 1^st Green Film Festival is a project of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. For more information, call (632) 292-0023 or (632) 294-4367.

UP Centennial Artists Held “Festival” Exhibit

The distinguished University of the Philippines (UP) Centennial Artists group held a painting exhibition at the Trade Hall of the Gateway Mall at the Araneta Center in Quezon City last April 23 to June 5, 2009.

Entitled “Festival”, the exhibit had for its theme the various festivities all over the country, given the Filipinos’ innate love for celebrations, and showcased the works of several outstanding UP alumni painters.

“Festival” is their first exhibition 2009 and fourth in a series since the UP Centennial Artists were formed as a group in June 2008, during the year-long celebration of the University of the Philippines’ one hundredth year anniversary. The series began with highly successful “100 Years/100 Nudes” in August, followed by a multi-themed exhibit in November, and climaxed with a “Mother and Child” exhibition last December 18, 2008 at the Trade Hall of the Gateway Mall.

The continuing series is organized by UP Centennial Artist Romy Carlos as a project of the UP Alumni Association in cooperation with fellow-UP alumnus, Mr. Jorge Araneta, proprietor of the Araneta Center in Quezon City.

Participating artists were: National Artist Jose Joya, Jess Abrera, Mar Bongalon, Angel Cacnio, Ferdie Cacnio, Michael Cacnio, Alfred Capiral, Romy Carlos, Carlos Castro, Cris Cruz, Denis Dasco, Raul Dayao, Neil Doloricon, Bert Duldulao, Tessie Duldulao, Nonoy Gamboa, Ding Hidalgo, Pete Jimenez, Aileen Lanuza, Herman Lazo, Bing Changco-Libatique, Manolo Lozada, Romi Mananquil, Norlito Miemban, Gig De Pio, Symkin De Pio, Vincent De Pio, Myrna Reyes, Tito Roy, Jonahmar Salvosa, Pyt Santos, Lenore Raquel-Santos, Nanding Sena, Randy Solon, Boy Valino, Ana Vergel and Rick De Villa.

For more information about the event, contact the UP Alumni Association at (632) 929-8327, 920-6868, 920-6871, email upalum@yahoo.com.ph, info@upalumni.ph or visit their website at http://www.upalumni.ph/.

Indie Music and Film Artists Shine at PHILDIGI Awards 2009

Independent and commercial filmmakers and music artists received their well deserved spotlight at the first Philippine Digital Music and Short Film Festival and Awards (PHILDIGI Awards) held last March 11 -12, 2009 at the World Trade Center in Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City.

This music and film festival, organized by Isys Business Solution and Thumbsinteractiv, in cooperation with Blue Fish Asia and Business Mirror aims to serve as an avenue for independent filmmakers and music artists to showcase their talents and works, encourage consumers to fight piracy, give equal opportunities for artists to earn while they broadcast their music and films online and other platforms, and to give record labels and publishers borderless earning avenue in selling music and videos to consumers.

The two-day event was filled with music, film, and animation seminars and workshops. Areas of discussion include artist development and management; stage performance; copyright infringement and publishing rights; anti-piracy; marketing and distribution; trends and opportunities; short film making, directing, and making; and internet marketing and e-commerce.

Over 300 music entries and 40 short film entries from rising Filipino artists competed in various categories and the following works stood out as the best:

Music Categories Best Digital Album - Access 2 Love Best Jingle Entry - Kamandag Theme by First Circle Promising New Artist - 2 Days Ago Promising Male Artist - Njel De Mesa Promising Female Artist - Debbie Nicodemus Best Male Artist - Brenan Espartinez Best Female Artist - Yeng Constantino Best Composer - Arne Martelino Best Composition - Ang Tanging Patnubay by John Paul Dabon Best Independent Group - Sensitivo Best Music Video - Call to Life By Salamankero Best Indie Music - Isa’t Kalahating Araw by Sensitivo Best House/Electronica Music - Frequency by Emorej Best Gospel/Praise Music - Alay sa Iyo by Era Ann Oblefias Best Contemporary Christian Music - Sagip Song by Rommel Gojo

Film Categories Best Short Film - Fantasy/Horror - Parihaba by Engelbert Paculangan Best Short Film – Comedy - Salingpusa by Antoinette Jadaone Best Short Film – Documentary - Namamaybay by Erwin Escalante Best Animated Short Film - Bas Bayabas by Kid Best Animated Short Film - Fantasy/Horror - Kumot Ng Panaginip by Jedd Chris Dimaguina Best Short Film - Action/Drama - Pirata by Al Eduardo Best Independent Solo Artist - Lynman Bacolor

Sponsored Categories Entertainment Central (ETC) Category Winner - Nosebleed by Jason Paul Laxamana Jack TV Category Winner - Buy the Book: Gabay sa Ordinaryong Taong Katulad Mo by Timmy Harn

The First Philippine Digital Music and Short Film Festival and Awards is supported by 6Underground, ERAS Equipment Rental and Setup Services, Ballyhoo Records, Rode Microphones, Promac and the following media partners: Business World, Circuit Magazine, ETC, Jack TV, Muse Magazine, The Manila Times, Philstar.com, Jam 88.3, NU 107, GMA-7, The Edge Radio, TV5, and Sport Radio (DZSR 918 kHz). Online partners are hotoccasions.com, Yehey.com, ClicktheCity.com, Digijooze.com, and Musikko.com.

International Jazz Artists Invaded Manila for Jazz Fest 2009

The biggest names in Jazz invaded Manila and made beautiful music during the Philippine International Jazz and Arts Festival (PIJF) held the whole month of February until March 4, 2009.

Organized by the Philippine International Jazz Foundation in cooperation with the Department of Tourism and National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the event has grown into the biggest and longest music festival in the country; having presented more than two hundred Filipino bands, twenty one concert performers, and ten artists from ten embassies for the past four years.

Hiromi’s Sonicbloom (Japan), Spyro Gyra (USA), Ms. Dianne Reeves (USA), Mr. Mike Stern (USA), Mr. Laurence Elder (USA), Mr. Ivan Lins (Brazil), Ms. Claudia Acuna (Chile), Sacbe (Mexico), Mr. Amir Bwirtzman (Israel), Logic Band (Australia), Mr. Mike del Ferro (Netherlands), Ms. Keiko Fukuda (Japan), Mr. Fabio Turchetti (Italy), Mr. Ray Sidney (USA), Mr. Marcel Worms (Netherlands), and Mr. Romero Lubambo (USA/Rio de Janeiro) were among the international jazz artists who graced PIJF.

Brass Munkeys, Mr. Tots Tolentino, Human Folk, Hairy Dawgs, FEU Drum and Bugle Corps, Aquarela, Ms. Bayang Barrios, Bembol Rockers, Brigada, Cubanilla, Ms. Bituin Escalante, Escola de Samba de Manille, Guarana, Johnny Allegre Affinity, Juan Isip, Ms. Nyko Maca and Playground, Ted Nikollof, Sinosikat, Sitti, and Yosha were the local artists who shared their music during the event.

Jazz fans were treated to several activities during the festival. PIJF was formally opened last February 26, 2009 at the Captain’s Bar in Mandarin Hotel – Manila in Makati City. PIJF conducted mall tours and embassy shows and workshops were held in different parts of the metro.

A 300-member Black Gospel Choir performed with Juan Isip and Logic last February 28, 2009 at Eastwood City in Libis, Quezon City. Free Jazz workshops were held last March 1, 2009 at Dencio's, Rockwell Plaza with Ms. Hiromi Uehara and Mr. Mike Stern, and on March 2, 2009 at Dencio's, Rockwell Plaza with Dave Weckl and Charito.

The Philippine International Jazz and Arts Festival is sponsored by Cream Silk, Dove, Ethan Allen, Pond’s, SieMatic, Sub-Zero, Lifestyle Network, Velvet, Metro, Metro Society, ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC), and Philippine Airlines. Venue Sponsors are Alabang Town Center, Bonifacio High Street, Glorietta Mall, Mandarin Oriental – Manila, Power Plant Mall, and Rockwell Land. Official Radio partners are 105.1 Crossover, Dream FM 106.7, 103.5 MAX FM, and XFM 92.3.

NCCA Concludes National Arts Month on a High Note

February was filled with a wide array of performances, exhibits, and activities, as the country celebrated the National Arts Month – Philippine International Arts Festival (NAM-PIAF).

Manila City Councilor Yul Servo (real name John Marvin Neito) was chosen as this year’s spokesperson for the NAM celebration due to his initiatives to help out-of-school youth, increase art awareness and appreciation, and authored Resolution 115, entitled “The Resolution Expressing Full Support for the Move of His Honor, Mayor Alfredo S. Lim, in the Restoration of the Metropolitan Theater in the City of Manila.”

All over the country, different arts and culture groups as well as local governments held events for the PIAF with funding and support from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). With the theme “Ani ng Sining,” the PIAF has evolved from Manila-centered activities to a truly national event, with key activities in all three major island groups, Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, involving hundreds of artists from different disciplines of arts and reaching thousands of people from all walks of life all over the world.

Activities include Pa(ng)labas, a fusion of architecture and film media exhibit; Walai-Vernacular Architecture of Mindanao, architectural drawing and photography exhibit of the vernacular houses of Mindanao culled from the Walai Pangampong project; Sinerehiyon, a showcase of nascent cinema from the regions; Sayaw Pinoy, a dance concert tour featuring local dance troupe from host cities and municipalities together with professional dance companies; Organik Muzik, a series of concerts showing the metamorphosis of elements of Philippine music from village roots to urban manifestations; Philippine Writers Festival; and Philippine Visual Arts Fest.

Ending the NAM celebration on a high note, the NCCA gathered together the Filipino artists and artistic groups that garnered gold in international arts festivals and competitions, and presented them with Ani ng Dangal awards, held last February 28, 2009, at the Centennial Hall on Manila Hotel, in recognition of their exemplary performances. This is the first time that the Commission gave such award in the 18 years of celebrating NAM.

Awards presenters and special guests during the ceremony included Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Esperanza I. Cabral, National Artists F. Sionil Jose, Bienvenido Lumbera, and Eddie Romero, and Manila Heritage Official Gemma Cruz Araneta.

Here is the list of Ani ng Dangal Awardees:

Dance

• Philippine All Stars, 7th World Hip Hop Championships
• Halili-Cruz School of Ballet, 10th Asia Pacific Dance Competition
• Quezon City Ballet, 2007 Dance Excellence Festival
• Bayanihan Philippine Dance Company, 12th World Folk Dance Festival
• Janssen Knights, High School Musical: My School Rocks Competition
• Shirley Halili Cruz, most outstanding dance educator, 2008 Global Excellence Award
• Donna Miranda, jury prize winner, 2007 Yokohoma Dance Competition.

Music

• Catherine Loria, 2008 World Championships of the Performing Arts (WCOPA)
• Aria Clemente, 2007 WCOPA
• Vina Morales, First Ikon Asean Malaysia
• Reymond Sajor, WCOPA
• Las Piñas Boys Choir, 5th World Choir Games
• Kalawan Boys Choir, pop a capella category, 5th World Choir Games
• Philippine Normal University Chorale, 26th Festival Internacional de Musica de Cantonigros Himig Singers, mixed ensemble vocal category, First Asian Choir Games
• Philippine Madringal Singers, chorale singing, 2007 European Chorale Grand Prix
• University of the East Chorale, grand pix and gold in classical and pop categories, 2007 Busan Chorale Festival and Competition
• Novo Concertante, folklore category, 23rd Takarazuka International Chamber Chorale Contest
• Mapua Concert Singers, folklore and open mixed choir categories, 2007 A Voyage of Songs International Choral Festival (AVSICF)
• Sta. Teresita Parish Chorale, 2007 AVSICF
  Chiang Kai Shek College Youth Choir, open equal voices and folklore categories, 2007 AVSICF
• Most Holy Redeemer Parish Master Chorale, open mixed choir category, 2007 AVSICF
• UP Singing Ambassadors, grand prize and gold in sacral music, folk music, and spiritual/gospel/jazz categories, 4th International Choir Festival in Mundus Cantat Sopot
• Coro de Sta. Cecilia, musica sacra a capella category, Asian Open, First Asian Choir Games
• Cebu Chamber Singers, winner of gold diplomas in the mixed chamber choirs and gospel and spiritual categories, Asian Open, in the First Asian Choir Games
• Lyceum of the Philippines Chorale, mixed youth choir and musica sacra a capella categories, Asian Open, First Choir Games
• Mandaue School for the Arts Children’s Choir, children’s choir, music of the religions, and folklore categories, Asian Championship, First Asian Choir Games
• Hail Mary the Queen Children’s Choir, gospel and spiritual category, Asian Choir Championship, First Asian Choir Games
• Vox Angeli Children’s Choir, children choir category, 2008 Hongkong International Youth and Children’s Choir Festival
• University of Northwestern Philippines Choral, folkloric category, 2008 Hong Kong International Youth and Children’s Choir Festival
• Kjwan Band, group category, First Ikon ASEAN
• KHP Koro Techniuv, First Folklore Festival Interfolk

Literature

• Miguel Syjuco, 2008 Man Asian Literary Award
• Michael Coroza, 2007 Philippine recipients of the Southeast Asian Write Award
• Elmer Ordoñez, Philippine recipients of the Southeast Asian Write Award

Film

• Melancholia directed by Lav Diaz, Best Film, Orrizonti Section, 65th Venice International Film FestivalFoster Child directed by Brillante Mendoza, Best Film, 29th Durban International Film Festival; special jury award, 4th Eurasia International Film Festival
• Tirador directed by Brillante Mendoza, Best Film, Best Director, and NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema) awards, 21st Singapore International Film Festival; caligari award, 58th Berlin International Film Festival; special jury award, 7th Marradekech International Film Festival
• Neo-lounge directed by Joanna Vasquez-Arong, Bst Documentary Film, 34th Brussels International Independent Film Festival
• Bulong by Joaquin Valdes, Best Short Narrative, 2nd New Beijing International Movie Week
• Brillante Mendoza, Best Director for the film Serbis, 6th International Pacific Meridian Film Festival; golden kinaree, 6th Bangkok International Film Festival
• Ricky Davao, Best Actor in a Supporting Role for the film Signos, UK International Filmmaker Film Festival
• Emilio Garcia, Best Actor for the movie, Selda, 49th Thessaloniki Film Festival
• Cherrie Pie Picache, Best Actress, 29th Durban International Film Festival
• Yul Servo, Outstanding Actor for Independent Film, 35th Brussels International Film Festival
• Sid Lucero, Best Actor, 49th Thessaloniki Film Festival
• Gina Pareño, Best Actress for the movie, Kubrador, 26th Amiens International Film Festival

Visual Arts

• Jose Fernandez Datuin, 2008 Sport and Art Contest
• Bernardo Matudan, 15th Annual World Children’s Picture Contest
• Remster Bautista, Young Artists Showcase 2007
• Imelda Cajipe Endaya, Irwin and Florenze Zlowe Memorial Award, 90th American Society of Contemporary Artists Annual Art Exhibition and Award
• Ross Capili, travel journalism-travel photograph category, 2008 PATA Grand Awards

Broadcast

• GMA Network, Inc., (Reporter’s Notebook), human interest category, 2008 New York Festivals International for TV Programming and Promotion
• Power to Unite Catholic Family Bible Group, Inc., (The Catholic Family Bible Quiz), innovative music video, 2008 New York Festivals International for TV Programming and Promotion

A Gathering of Talents as the Philippine International Writers Fest

For the first time ever, writers all around the country gather at the Taboan: Philippine International Writers Festival 2009 at three different venues: the Cubao Expo, the University of the Philippines Diliman www.upd.edu.ph, and the Ateneo de Manila University Loyola Campus. The event was held from Feb. 11–13, in relation to the celebration of the National Arts Month.

Taboan, which in Cebuano means “assembly,” was the gathering of around 100 writers who have been recipients of grants from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and who have made and making their mark on Philippine literature, said Mr. Ricardo M. de Ungria, director and overall chairman of the Writers Festival.

Notable discussions include the labeling of "imperial Manila"; conducting regional literary contests; holding Taboan annually in other key cities; encouraging groups in the regions to register to the Securities and Exchange Commission; and submission of proposals and support for international contests, among others.

National Artist for Literature Francisco Sionil Jose, challenged the writers in his keynote speech. "We are writers – what impact do we have on our history? We do not make the decisions that alter the nation's destiny. And what can the solitary writer do now that will make a difference?" The national artist also highlighted the value of literature as he urged the writers "to write as best and as honestly as we can…."

The NCCA, the University of the Philippines Institute for Creative Writing, and the Ateneo de Manila University were the organizers of the said event.

National and College Theater Festival to Open

To highlight the outstanding theater achievements of university-based theater groups, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), through its National Committee on Dramatic Arts, will be holding Tanghal, the fourth National University and College Theater Festival on February 1-5, 2009 as part of the Philippine International Festival (PIAF).

The event will feature a showcase of six exceptional theater performances that will be followed by a conference featuring international guest artists that will tackle the contributions of theater groups in the universities and colleges all over the Philippines in the hopes of forming a National Student Theater Alliance. The fourth Tanghal is aimed at marking the importance of university and college-based theater programs in the Philippine history.

This year’s fourth Tanghal is slated to take place in the National Capital Region (NCR), as the three previous theater festivals were held in the provinces.

The first Tanghal was held in Iloilo City in 2007 and was hosted by the University of San Agustin and the Teatrokon Western Visayas Theater Network. In 2008, Tanghal moved to Zamboanga with the Western Mindanao State University and the local government unit of the City of Zamboanga playing hosts. For the third leg of the theater festival, Tanghal was held at Laguna, hosted by Colegio de San Juan Letran in Calamba in cooperation with the Arts Research and Training Institute in Southern Tagalog, Inc., Linang Laguna Theater Network and the Lusong Luzon Theater Network.

The PIAF is annually held every February as per the Presidential Proclamation No. 683 signed by former President Corazon Aquino in 1991 and is currently undertaken by NCCA headed by its chairman, Dr. Vilma Labrador and its executive director Cecile Guidote Alvarez. Commissioner Ricardo de Ungria, head of the Subcommission on the Arts, is the festival director of PIAF 2010.

For details, contact the NCCA at (632) 527-2192 loca 612-615, email ncca.paio@gmail.com or log on to www.ncca.gov.ph.