The Illa in Manila

Sea Urchin for Breakfast.

2011-02-09T08:34:00.000-08:00

That's my buddy, "Captain A." holding the sea urchin. He drove us to Northern Cebu and arranged the boat ride. Salamat pre!

During the swim in the ocean, the fisherman caught some sea urchin. "The ovaries, called corals or roe, are culinary delicacies in many parts of the world." Yes...I tried it. It tasted like raw oysters.

Read More About Sea Urchin Here

Jump!

2011-02-09T08:28:00.000-08:00

I've never jumped out of a fisherman's boat into to the ocean. I have to admit that I was a little nervous at first. The water was crystal clear, the sun was out, Tavi and KC had already jumped and who knew when I would get another chance to do this. There's nothing better than a morning swim in the ocean. It was easy jumping in but not so easy climbing back in the boat.

Manila Graf

2011-02-09T08:06:00.000-08:00

Here's some Graffiti Art I saw leaving Manila on our way to Batangas.

Puerto Galera

2011-02-06T00:39:00.000-08:00

Puerto Galera is well known for its diving spots, white beach, clear water and nightlife. It is one of the most popular places because it is located just 81km from Manila. The two hour bus ride and the 2 hour boat ride where totally worth the trip. Puerto Galera is a listed by the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World.

Read More About Galera Here

Inihaw na Pusit (Pinoy Grilled Squid)

2011-02-03T09:48:00.000-08:00

Squid cooked to perfection at Gerry's Grill "A Pinoy Original."

Lechón

2011-02-03T07:01:00.000-08:00

Lechón is similar to a New Mexican matanza. Lechon is a whole pig roasted over charcoal. The name Lechon comes from the Spanish word leche (milk) because it is a suckling piglet. The meat is tender and the skin is crispy.

Read more about Lechon

Read More about New Mexican matanza

Filipino Sound System!

2011-01-30T20:29:00.001-08:00

This is a Filipino sound system in Cebu. It reminds me of a Jamaican sound system.

Fried Chicken Skin!

2011-01-30T20:18:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure who loves fried food more, Southern Americans or Filipinos. This is a picture of fried chicken skin...no meat...just skin. Did I eat it...no.

Glorietta

2011-01-30T20:07:00.000-08:00

"Glorietta is a large shopping mall in the Ayala Center in Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines. The mall is owned by the Zobel de Ayala family and its holding company, Ayala Corporation. The mall is divided into five sections (named Glorietta 1–5) and contains many shops and restaurants, as well as cinema screens, a gym, arcades and a large central atrium often used to stage special events. It has an activity center, located at the heart of the mall. It is also integrated between Greenbelt Mall, SM Makati, Rustan's Makati and The Landmark, a department store. Ayala Center has constructed Glorietta 5, which is located in front of Hotel Intercontinental Manila and beside Rustans Department Store." -Wikipedia

The Convergys building I used to work in is located in Glorietta 5. This is where I spent alot of my time on my last trip. It is also one of the locations of my favorite restaurant called North Park. It was a very nostalgic feeling to return to G-5.

B-Side Crew

2011-01-30T19:35:00.000-08:00

Rob Smith (RSD), The B-Side Crew and Me. These cats put on alot of bass music shows here in Manila at The B-Side Collective and Rob Smith is a legendary producer from the duo Smith & Mighty.

Makati

2011-01-29T07:11:00.001-08:00

Makati City is the business district of Manila. The city has also been called the "Wall Street of the Philippines"

Nachos!

2011-01-26T07:26:00.001-08:00

I love a bag of nachos! Don't worry Mom they are fortified with vitamins! LOL!

Puchero/Pochero

2011-01-24T03:14:00.000-08:00

Pucherio is one of my favorite dishes here in The Philippines. It is a spanish style beef stew with veggies.

Read more about Philippines Cuisine here

Sinulog Afterparty!

2011-01-24T03:02:00.001-08:00

After a long day of walking around the city we were ready to let loose and have a little bit of fun. Here's a picture of some of my friends in front of The Loft, a dance club in Cebu. Niñz,Jera,Steve,KC,Tavi "n da hawse yo!"

Sinulog! Pit Senyor!

2011-01-24T01:56:00.000-08:00

Sinulog is the biggest festival in the Philippines. The Festival lasts 9 days and on the final day the Grand Parade is held. The festival celebrates Santo Nino (Jesus the holy child.) The entire city turns into one huge part. For miles and miles the streets are flooded with people. As we walked down the streets of Cebu we could hear music coming from every, house, apartment and condo. The parade was very colorful with dancers, drummers and floats. Every side street was filled with food vendors, henna tattoo artists and attendees celebrating the festival. Pictures cannot possibly describe the atmosphere of this event but I posted a picture I found online.

Read more about Sinulog here

Tahô

2011-01-24T01:42:00.000-08:00

"Tahô is a Philippine snack food made of fresh soft/silken tofu, arnibal (brown sugar and vanilla syrup), and pearl sago (similar to pearl tapioca).The Magtatahô (taho vendor) carries two large aluminum buckets that hang from each end of a yoke. One of the buckets (the larger one) carries the tofu base; the other, smaller bucket holds the arnibal and sago "pearls"." - Wikipedia

It's Tahô time when you see the man with two buckets! It's a vanilla/brown sugar liquid with pieces of custard. Hmmmm! Sarap!

Daedelus LIVE IN MANILA! (Friday - 1/14/11)

2011-01-23T21:24:00.000-08:00

I was happy to find out that Daedelus from the legendary Ninja Tune label was performing my second night in Manila. I tried to see Daedelus last December in LA at the Christmas Bassface event. Unfortunately it was sold out. When I arrived I could instantly feel a good vibe. The venue is a place called B-Side Collective. It is a collective of art galleries, restaurants and shops. The sound was good and Daedelus absolutely destroyed the venue. Most of his production in experimental but his live performance was mostly Dubstep. All the DJ’s were really good. I especially enjoyed Red-I, the dj before Daedelus and the Manila female Dubstep DJ Soulflower. After the show I went to a place called Central with one of my friend Grace from Convergys and some of her friends. It was a lively place with a great atmosphere. The waiters had two jobs. The first job is to serve, then the second is to hype up the crowd! Big up

Day 1 (Thursday - 1/13/11)

2011-01-23T21:23:00.000-08:00

I arrived in Manila around 10pm. It took about an hour to get my bag but luckily I got it! Last time someone took my bag on accident so I marked my bag with tape. I can’t believe how much luggage and packages were on that plane. Half of the cargo was Balikbayan boxes. These are flat rate boxes meant for people in the states to send packages to their friends and family. Once I got my bag, I stepped out side into an instant culture shock. There was so many people, so many cars and so much noise. I felt like I was in a dream. Then it hit me that I was back in Manila. A sudden rush of excitement overwhelmed me. I’m Back!

I'm back!

2011-01-20T09:36:00.000-08:00

My visit to the Philippines in 2009 changed my life. All I have been thinking about for the last 13 months was returning to "my second home." I was nervous about returning without the support of my employer but the support from my friends here has proven that the friendships I have built here are lifelong. Alot of people wonder why I would want to visit a third world country for vacation but I never doubted that a piece of my heart is here in the Philippines. This trip is a little bit different than the last trip because I don't have as much time to blog but I promise to post as many pictures and videos as possible. I hope to share my love of the Philippines with all of you...my beloved friends and family. No matter how much I post here I will still have a story for each and every one of you in person when I return. From Island Adventures to concrete jungle experiences I hope you will find time to enjoy sharing these moments with me!

100th Post! Goodbye Philippines.

2009-11-28T15:20:00.000-08:00

WOW! What an amazing trip. I had so much fun. I met so many special people here. The Filipino culture is so beautiful. I truly experience the Filipino hospitality. Everyone was so nice and helpful. The people and culture are so beautiful. I will never forget my trip to the Philippines. I will miss it every day until I return. I hope to be back within a few years! Back to the USA. Can't wait to see my friends and family.

Tiger Lobster

2009-11-28T15:15:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite meals in the Philippines...Tiger Lobster!!

!

Traffic!

2009-11-28T15:07:00.000-08:00

If there is one thing I won't miss about Manila is the traffic! Traffic in Manila is the root of all evil...LOL. It causes so much pollution and it takes a long time to go a short distance. I could never drive in Manila. There's much honking and cutting other cars off. They call the style of driving..."Fill in the blanks."

I love the Philippines.

2009-11-25T01:18:00.000-08:00

I'm so sad that I am leaving soon.

Fried Chicken Rice

2009-11-25T01:06:00.000-08:00

Fried chicken and rice is like green chile in New Mexico. You can find it everywhere. McDonald's, convenience stores and even Burger King:

My best friend Loya

2009-11-25T01:02:00.000-08:00

Loya came to visit me in the Philippines for a week. It was so much fun having a friend here to enjoy all the sites and great food.

My first international gig.

2009-11-25T00:59:00.000-08:00

After three months of schedule conflicts, I was finally able to play a drum n bass night in Makati. Big up Nomad Technology for having me play at Zensus. The drum n bass crew in manila is truly special.

Chicharones!

2009-11-25T00:56:00.000-08:00

This is the most chicharones I've ever seen in one place! Aye!

Greenhills Mall

2009-11-23T06:10:00.000-08:00

View of Manila Bay from The Mall of Asia.

2009-11-22T01:54:00.000-08:00

Here's a beautiful view of Manila Bay. This video was taken from The SM Mall of Asia.

"Manila Bay is a natural harbor which serves the Port of Manila (on Luzon), in the Philippines. The bay is considered to be one of the best natural harbors in Southeast Asia and one of the finest in the world. It has an area of 1,994 km2 (769.9 sq mi), and a coastline of 190 km (118.1 mi)."

Liquid Nation @ M-Cafe

2009-11-22T01:50:00.000-08:00

Here's a picture of the number one drum n bass crew here in Manila. This was a night dedicated to liquid drum n bass. Nomad Technology represent!

Boracay: The most beautiful island in the world.

2009-11-19T00:21:00.000-08:00

Ever since I knew I was coming to the Philippines, I had a dream of visiting Boracay. The dream came true and let me tell you it felt like a dream the entire time I was there. Pristine water and beautiful white sand, truly makes Boracay a fantasy island. Every moment was amazing. There was so many DJ events going on at night but the most amazing this was when I woke up and saw the beach. This is the most beautiful place I have ever seen! Words are just not enough to explain how fascinated I was. I need some time to reflect. I will post more about Boracay later.

"Boracay is an island of the Philippines located approximately 315km (200 miles) south of Manila and 2km off the northwest tip of the island of Panay in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. In 1990, it was voted by the BMW Tropical Beach Handbook as one of the best beaches in the world and again in 1996 by British publication TV Quick as the world's number one tropical beach.In 2007, Boracay island topped the list of the World’s Most Popular Beach according to Yahoo! Travel."

Life after the storm.

2009-11-11T21:45:00.000-08:00

The storm know as Ondoy aka Ketsana has passed away and no longer occupies the headlines of our newspapers. What about life after the storm? Here is an articel about how the storm has affected this country.

"Disease outbreaks strike flooded Philippines

Five weeks after Typhoon Ketsana, and having weathered two more typhoons since then, tens of thousands of Filippinos are still living in flooded villages and towns.

The storms themselves affected nearly a million people and caused around 1,100 deaths. Now the World Health Organisation says it is battling severe disease outbreaks, including the bacterial illness leptospirosis." --

In other news, the US Secretary of Stat, Hillary Clinton plans to visit the Philippines.

"Hillary Clinton is making her first visit to the Philippines as US Secretary of State.
During her two-day visit she plans to visit typhoon victims and talk about the country's 2010 elections.
She will also discuss security issues in the Muslim south of the country, where US troops are active."

Also, the priest that was kidnapped in the Southern Philippines was freed.

"Irish priest freed in Philippines after a month

DUBLIN — A 79-year-old Irish Roman Catholic priest abducted in the Philippines a month ago was freed early Thursday and neither country paid any of the kidnappers' $2 million ransom demand, Irish and Filipino authorities said."

Texas Somke Em'

2009-11-10T23:35:00.000-08:00

Best ribs in town!

Model shoot in the Philippines.

2009-11-10T23:32:00.000-08:00

Here's some pictures from a model shoot at Greenbelt in Makati, Philippines.

Anime Overload Festival @ SM Mall of Asia.

2009-11-09T22:48:00.000-08:00

I decided to take a little trip over to the BIG Mall of Asia.

"SM Mall of Asia (MOA) is a shopping mall owned and developed by SM Prime Holdings, the largest mall developer and owner in the Philippines. SM Mall of Asia is the second largest shopping mall in the Philippines and the 4th largest shopping mall in the world. It has a land area of 42 hectares and has a gross floor area of an approximate 390,193 m² (4.2 million square feet) and 407,101 m² of total area. The mall is located at Bay City, Pasay City, Philippines just near the SM Central Business Park, the Manila Bay and the southern end of EDSA (Epifanio de los Santos Avenue). The mall attracts a daily foot traffic of 200,000 people."

Well, as you can see it is a huge mall. I was walking around in the mall when I happen to notice a bunch of people dressed in costumes. I found out there was a big anime festival. Here's a video I took. I have posted pics from the festival on my facebook page.

Radio in the Philippines.

2009-11-08T23:17:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, I love radio. I love hearing the DJ's, the music and even the advertisements. Radio is so amazing because it leaves so much to the imagination. Only on radio can you hear old and new artists and there's nothing like sitting back relaxing and listening to your favorite radio station. Here are a few of my favorite radio stations in Manila.

Wave 89.1. Format: Hip-Hop/RnB. Here's a promo video. Link to 89.1

I also jam out to 90.7 Love Radio, Monster Radio 93.1, and Magic 89.9

Pinoy Step: Drum n Bass in Manila.

2009-11-07T04:40:00.000-08:00

Manila, the capital of Philippines is one of 17 cities that make Metro Manila. Metro Manila consists of an estimated 20 million people. Deep in the concrete jungle there's a force to be reckoned with. This force is called Nomad Tech. The Nomad Massive is Manila's number one drum n bass crew. 3-4 times a month this crew puts on heavy hitting events featuring Manila's best dnb dj's and producers. This week is Liquid Nation with a night of dnb, dubstep and trip hop. 4 DJ's. One Love.

Chill with the relaxing vibes of Ambient & trip-hop.Nod your head to the unorthodox style of dub-step.And groove to the pulsating beats of Drum'n'Bass.All combined with soulful melodies provided by the cosmic love vocal duo.Tomorrow comes today as Nomad Tech brings you the future sound of Manila.....A new level of sound-scape created for your delight.

St. Joseph's Academy

2009-11-05T18:57:00.000-08:00

St. Joseph’s School, an institution situated at the heart of Las Piñas, was founded by Belgian priests in 1914.

Adobo Time!

2009-11-05T18:51:00.000-08:00

This little piggy went to market.

Bubba Gump Staff

2009-11-05T18:49:00.000-08:00

The Bubba Gump staff in costume on Halloween.

Antonette

2009-11-03T18:44:00.001-08:00

Beep, Beep. One of the best Jeeps in Manila!

Taal Volcano

2009-11-03T18:11:00.001-08:00

"Taal Volcano is a complex volcano on the island of Luzon in the Philippines. It is situated between the towns of Talisay and San Nicolas in Batangas. It consists of an island in Lake Taal, which is situated within a caldera formed by an earlier, very powerful eruption. It is located about 50 km (31 Miles) from the capital, Manila. It is one of the active volcanos in the Philippines, all part of the Pacific ring of fire.

The volcano has erupted violently several times, causing loss of life in the populated areas surrounding the lake, the current death toll standing at around 5,0006,000. Because of its proximity to populated areas and eruptive history, the volcano has been designated a Decade Volcano worthy of close study to prevent future natural disasters. It was thought to be named as "a volcano inside a volcano" because many believed that the lake that circles the volcano was once a crater or mouth of a volcano.
A level 1 Alert is in force for Taal which is giving signs of increased activity in June/July 2009." - wikipedia

Picture from internet:

Here's some pictures of the restaurant:

Very Expensive Doctor.

2009-11-02T19:22:00.000-08:00

Coke, Mountain Dew and Pepsi are very common. There is only one place in The Philippines that sells Dr Pepper. For a measly 100 pesos (about $2) you can purchase a small 8 oz can of Dr. Pepper. Just what did the Dr. ordered?

2009-11-02T19:20:00.000-08:00

Boy Bawang, Happy Snacks, Mr Chips & More.

2009-11-02T19:14:00.000-08:00

Philippino ramen, cocnut jam, ginger sweets, pea chips, prawn chips, choco crunch, knick knacks & mussels chips are just some of the local snacks I enjoy.

Currency

2009-11-02T18:50:00.000-08:00

The conversion rate here in the Philippines about 47 PHP to 1 USD. It's pretty easy to convert because you can just round up to 50. So 50 PHP equals about a dollar. 1000 PHP is about $20 and that little centavo coin is less than a penny.

Read More Here

HAPPY!

2009-11-02T18:45:00.000-08:00

French Fries make me HAPPY!

Halloween in the Philippines

2009-10-31T22:20:00.000-07:00

I was Shokoy (merman) for halloween. The costume was made by the agents at the call center as part of the haunted house contest at work. How cool huh!?

Shokoy illustration:

A real Shokoy found in Manila:

A real Shokoy found in Cebu. *Winks

Pinas.

2009-10-31T21:53:00.000-07:00

Wow! Here's a picture of a pineapple plantation. I've never seen anything like this. I really enjoyed the beautiful landscape of rolling hills on the way up the hill. I had to stop and take a picture. My tour guide said"Don't try to pick the pineapples it's private land!" So I bought a fresh one at the market for 20 pesos (about 50 cents.)

Tagaytay Pineapple Plantation.

Cycle rickshaw aka Pedicab.

2009-10-31T21:39:00.000-07:00

The pedicab "poor man's taxi," is a very popular form of transportation here in the Philippines. This one holds 7!

Fun in the Philippines!

2009-10-31T21:00:00.000-07:00

This is how we have fun. LOL.

Kenny Wizz as Michael Jackson

2009-10-26T22:48:00.000-07:00

25th Year Anniversary!

2009-10-26T22:44:00.000-07:00

The hotel had a 25th Anniversary party last week, here is a picture of me and the people that have been taking care of me for the last 6 weeks.

Dampa - Seaside Market and Restaurants

2009-10-26T22:29:00.000-07:00

This is a seaside market, Dampa style! Here you can pick your seafood, order by the kilo and take to your favorite restaurant where they cook your seafood to perfection! I paid 550 pesos, around $11 dollars and got to try crab, prawn, mussles, pork belly (ribs) and more! Yum!

Street beggers.

2009-10-26T22:26:00.000-07:00

Here in the city there are alot of street beggers, Back home I rarely give money to street beggers but it's hard to tell these ones no, so usually give a little bit of money.

Don't flush the TP!

2009-10-26T22:21:00.000-07:00

Here in the Philippines it is not advisable to flush the toilet paper. In public places we are asked to throw the tissue in a wast paper basket. The toilets here are made to conserve water. It seems a bit unsanitary and weird but it's part of life here.

Las Piñas Bamboo Organ

2009-10-26T22:15:00.000-07:00

"The Las Piñas Bamboo Organ, in the Parish Church of St Joseph in Las Piñas City, Philippines, is a nineteenth-century church organ made almost entirely from bamboo: only the trumpet stops are made from metal.
The organ, the church and the surrounding buildings have been restored to their 19th century state by Architect Francisco "Bobby" Mañosa and partner Ludwig Alvarez, making a trip to the site a popular excursion for Filipinos and foreign visitors alike."

Las Piñas Bamboo Organ

Manila TV Cribs: Millennium Somerset

2009-10-22T00:38:00.000-07:00

Pacman Scheduled to Take on Cotto

2009-10-22T00:24:00.000-07:00

Local hero Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao is scheduled to take on Miguel Cotto on Nov. 14th. Pacman aka“The People’s Champ," is a very respected boxer here in the Philippines. He is a celebrity and according to some locals, "When Manny fights, the city stops to watch" The world will be watching. Go PACMAN!!!

Pacquiao vs. Cotto

6 Men Armed Heavily Armed With Grenade Launchers Rob Rolex

2009-10-22T00:04:00.000-07:00

According to officials, 6 men wearing bomb squad uniforms passed security to rob a Rolex store at Greenbelt 5 in Makati, Philippines (10 minute walk from my hotel) on Sunday around noon. The robbers were heavily armed with automatic weapons and grenade launchers. Authorities believe the robbery was an inside job. 5 of the men got away with an estimated 6 million pesos ($120,000) worth of Rolex watches. One robber was shot dead by a local mayors body guard. They don't mess around here in the Philippines.

Greenbelt 5 Rolex Shop robbed on Sunday noon

Video

There's DJ's EVERYWHERE.

2009-10-16T02:24:00.000-07:00

Nearly every place I've been to during the night time has a DJ, here is one of the best local hip hop DJ's at M-Cafe on a Thursday night.

Salsa Music in the Philippines

2009-10-16T02:12:00.000-07:00

Latin music is rare in the Philippines but I found a Latin music night in Ortegas. Most of the people there didn't know how to dance to salsa but they sure were having fun!

Jeepney.

2009-10-15T08:07:00.000-07:00

I used to think Lowriders were culturally, the most fascinating style of car...until I saw one of these:

This is a picture I found online. The word Jeepney is a combination of words. Jeep and honey. My Jeep Honey.Ha Ha!

Jeepneys are the most popular means of public transportation in the Philippines. They were originally made from US military jeeps left over from World War II. and are well known for their flamboyant decoration and crowded seating. They have also become a symbol of Philippine culture.

Read more about Jeepney's here.

Zamboanga!

2009-10-14T23:02:00.000-07:00

Zamboanga! This is hands down the best restaurant I've been to on the Philippines. It was part of a city tour package. The driver took me on a historic tour of old and new Manila. We also visited the walled city of Inturamuros. Intramuros was a Spanish fort built in the 1600's. The Tour ended at the restaurant where I enjoyed live music and a cultural dance show. I even had a chance to learn a local dance. LOL. Here's a picture of my meal. The Fisherman's delight included fresh oysters, crab, shellfish and crustaceans, pork, chicken and rice, steamed and delicately spiced and served in a native basket. YUM!!!

DJ Baby Drew - Chris Brown's DJ

2009-10-12T01:18:00.000-07:00

I got a chance to visit an area called Fort Andres Bonifacio. They simply call it "The Fort." It is a "district in Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines. It is the headquarters of the Philippine Army." They also have concert and DJ venues. The local DJ Academy here in the Philippines hosted the event. Here is a picture of Baby Drew, he is the official DJ for Chris Brown. FInd out more about the DJ Academy at http://www.djacademy.com.ph I have contacted the Academy about taking a tour of the facilities. I will report on that later.

Read more about "The Fort" here.

Friends!

2009-10-11T02:58:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of some friends from work. The people here are so friendly. They have a wild sense of humor and they are very hospitable.

Fish Crackers

2009-10-11T02:55:00.000-07:00

Here's another popular snack. Fish crackers are actually quite good.

I love the way Filipinos talk.

2009-10-11T02:47:00.000-07:00

Mostly everyone in the area speaks English. I really love the way they talk. They have a beautiful accent. It sounds like a combination of Asian and Spanish. They say:

Later, Later.
Picture, Picture.
Speech, Speech.
It's up to you.
Take care always.
You're always welcome.
One hour only. (everything ends with only when talking about amount, value, time, etc)

These phrases are common in America but it's the little difference that I notice and love. It's hard to explain in a blog but hopefully you understand. LOL. I love and miss you all!

Poverty.

2009-10-11T02:42:00.000-07:00

The poverty really breaks my heart. I was leaving a market today and I saw some kids digging through the KFC trash looking for pieces of chicken. I was more than happy to give them my left over food. I had a big meal at Bubba Gump Shrimp. It really broke my heart to see these kids so hungry. I had no problem giving them my left overs but what will they eat tomorrow? The poverty here kills me. I'm not too sure how to help the people here. There are about 100 million people here in the Philippines. I am still researching the best way to help. I will keep you all updated.

Bootlegs!

2009-10-11T02:31:00.000-07:00

Bootlegs are very popular in the markets. Some discs are better than other discs so it's nice to find a quality DVD.Sometimes they work.... sometimes they don't...LOL. Luckily the discs I bought work. I picked up this Ultimate Gold Collection with 400 mp3's for 200 pesos which is a bout $4, I also got this Michael Jackson, Number Ones DVD for 50 pesos, which is about $1.

Frog Legs!

2009-10-05T02:36:00.001-07:00

Frog Legs from Taste of Asia in Greenhills.

Christmas Time in the Philippines!

2009-10-05T02:28:00.000-07:00

This weekend I went to Landmark. It's a HUGE department store. It's kinda like a combination of Walmart and Sears. I was amazed to see Christmas items for sale in October. Have stores starting stocking Christmas items in America?

Outdoor Catholic Mass @ Greenbelt Mall

2009-10-05T02:20:00.000-07:00

Shops, restaurants, coffee shops,internet cafes,...church?

I was very surprised to find out there is a Catholic church in the Greenbelt Mall. The mall very big and I have been told they have everything but I didn't expect to find a church there. Even more surprising, it was outdoor. The main sanctuary was covered by a big cement dome. The seating area was full but that didn't keep people from gathering. Here are some pictures of Sunday Mass in a Catholic Church in Greenbelt.

Looks like the worst in over

2009-10-02T19:58:00.000-07:00

PAGASA (Government agency for weather forecasting, flood control, astronomical observations, and time service) lifts storm signal on Metro Manila.

Read the latest news from the PAGASA website here.

City of Mandaluyong

2009-10-02T12:43:00.000-07:00

This was my first experience of a poor community in Manila. It's heart breaking to see the poverty.

A view from my hotel room at night

2009-10-02T12:37:00.000-07:00

I never knew one of the members of BEP is from the Philippines

2009-10-02T12:19:00.000-07:00

"State of Calamity" in the Philippines

2009-10-02T12:02:00.000-07:00

In Manila, there is something in the air. It's more than just pollution and humidity. It's fear. We are waiting for the biggest storm in Philippines history to hit the Island at any given moment. There is anticipation and fear everywhere. The grocery stores are full of people getting last minute groceries before the "super typhoon" Parma hits. Most establishments have closed down in anticipation of massive destruction.

"Parma threatened to expand more than a week of destruction in the Asia-Pacific region that has claimed more than 1,500 lives so far: an earthquake Wednesday in Indonesia; a tsunami Tuesday in the Samoan islands; and Typhoon Ketsana across Southeast Asia."

I would just like to reassure everyone that I a in a VERY safe place in Manila. The hotel is prepared for this disaster. However, please keep the people of the Philippines in your thoughts and prayers. If the typhoon hits, millions of people will be homeless. Thanks for following this blog. Please check back to stay updated on this ferocious storm.

"MANILA, Philippines – Filipinos braced Friday to be whipped by powerful winds and pelted with rain from a second typhoon in eight days, fleeing by the tens of thousands from low-lying areas and suspending cleanup operations in the flooded capital..."

Read the full story

More Food.

2009-09-29T22:10:00.000-07:00

Sweetened yam, sugar coconut and Filipino version of Corn Nuts.

Ondoy.

2009-09-29T22:02:00.000-07:00

Here's some pictures of Makati just hours before Typhoon Ondoy hit.

"MANILA, Philippines – Damages due to massive floods brought by Tropical Storm “Ondoy” (international codename: Ketsana) has peaked at P4.79 billion, the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) said Wednesday."
Click here for the entire story

"At least 50 people have been killed and thousands more evacuated..."

2009-09-26T23:22:00.000-07:00

"At least 50 people have been killed and thousands more evacuated as floods caused by heavy rain brought chaos to the Philippines, officials say.
At least one town is completely under water. Power has been cut off to parts of the capital, Manila, where hundreds of people are trapped on rooftops.
The government has declared a calamity, allowing access to emergency funds.
Television pictures showed water flowing down roads like rivers, with the floods chest-deep and rising.
The equivalent of a whole month's rain fell in six hours as Tropical Storm Ketsana, also known as Ondoy, lashed the island of Luzon, causing the worst flooding in Manila for 20 years." - BBC

Read the story here

Typhoon!

2009-09-26T23:10:00.000-07:00

I survived a Typhoon! Not really but a Typhoon missed the island by a few kilometers. We had a horrible rain storm and flood. We went to the mall and by the time we left we were up to our wastes in water. We took a cab but the taxi driver made us get out because the tide was too high! We had to walk three blocks in waste high water! It was an amazing adventure but I wouldn't want to do it again.

Energy Drink!

2009-09-25T17:03:00.000-07:00

Not sure who this guy is, but I'm sure a couple of these and you'll be ready to take on Bruce Lee!

New work schedule.

2009-09-25T16:59:00.001-07:00

I will be working 2:30am to 12:30pm next week.

Pinoy-Step. Nomad Crew! Boh!

2009-09-25T16:50:00.000-07:00

Here's a few shots of a monthly drum n bass night. You can see they have a nice little crowd, also there's a picture of Liquid A (female DJ) and Morse (local Pinoy-Step producer). I didn't get to play because the lineup was full. They did promise me a gig very soon. I got a chance to MC on the mic. They loved it! Finally! LOL. Ha. I will have a DJ gig soon! I know it. I will post more info about the dnb scene here very soon

Food! Filipino Delicacies

2009-09-25T16:26:00.000-07:00

One day old duck and fried Balut.

Fried pigs blood.
Dried Anchovies

Pig intestine

Smells like crap, tastes likes heaven.

Paul Van Dyke in Makati - Oct 13th

2009-09-22T23:09:00.000-07:00

Live Performance by Silk @ Hard Rock Cafe Makati

2009-09-22T22:53:00.000-07:00

Here's a local cover band called Silk covering Umbrella by Rhianna.

The View From My Apartment. Somerset MIllennium Makati

2009-09-22T22:30:00.000-07:00

Ill Kid @ M-Cafe Thursday Night

2009-09-22T00:51:00.000-07:00

I have a DJ gig at M-Cafe this Thursday! I'm so thankful that the jungle DJ's have given me an opportunity to play some jungle in Manila! I'll keep you updated!

Communications

2009-09-22T00:45:00.000-07:00

I must apologize, I do not have a phone yet and I have not called anyone at home. :( There are so many cell phones and providers out here. I'm trying to make a good decision because I have to use my own money to buy a cell phone. The company will not reimburse me for the phone...only the minutes. I will call you all ASAP. Until then, I have Skype. My screen name is madridonskype.

Hit me up! Also, I should have AIM soon. Sorry, I've been super busy. I love all of you, thanks for following the Illa In Manila! Send me an email with your number and cell provider and I will send you a text via free text on the internet! Thanks!

Fruit!

2009-09-22T00:44:00.001-07:00

There's so much good food here! Sushi, seafood and fruit. There is a fresh seafood market and fresh fruit market within two blocks of my residence! I will post pictures soon!

Getting closer to God in a tight situation.

2009-09-22T00:42:00.000-07:00

There's around 16 million people in Makati City and about 93 million in the Philippines. I'm never alone! So many people everywhere. I feel close to God because there is so much life here. So much love. So much passion.

Weather

2009-09-22T00:37:00.000-07:00

Alot of people have been asking how the weather is here. There's two season's wet and dry. Right now it's wet season. It rains everyday! The cool thing is it only rains for a few hours in the evening. The perfect weather here. Sunny in the morning, a nice shower in the evening and humid at night. I've never liked humidity but it's the perfect amount of humidity. It's hard to explain, so if you want a better description, just come out here and visit me! I have a beautiful apartment in downtown Makati City. There's two huge malls in the area. Each mall has about 5 or six parts. I take a cab to work but I walk home everyday after work. There's a short cut my residence through the mall. So.... I have to walk through the mall everyday to get home (it's so hard being me!) I love this place!

Language

2009-09-22T00:25:00.000-07:00

Ok, so the words are different here....LOL. I learned there is a difference between clubs and bars. Clubs here are places for "bird watching" and bars are places where you go to drink. LOL. I was wondering why they looked at me weird when I said where are the dance clubs....LOL. Also learned a new word: Astige! It means super cool!

Filipino Flan

2009-09-22T00:19:00.000-07:00

Pronounced Fl-ann not flon. LOL

I tried a new dessert today at work. One of the girls brought leche flan. Best dessert I've ever had!!!

BALUT!

2009-09-18T17:02:00.000-07:00

I tried Balut today. I will try to get the picture and video posted soon! Balut is Filipino delicacy. It's a young duck egg. You peel the egg, drink the "juice" and eat the rest. YUM!

First Day of Work

2009-09-18T16:57:00.000-07:00

Today was truly amazing! Convergys launched the program today and the first wave of employees graduated from training. There was so much excitement in the air, people were nervous and excited but mostly just really happy to be doing their job. I like to be around people who love what they are doing. The people here are so passionate and I was full of joy all day. I'm even getting emotional just typing this. :)

Filipinos Know How To Party!

2009-09-18T16:53:00.000-07:00

This was a group of friends we saw at one of the clubs, they were having so much fun I HAD TO capture the moment!

This is how I lost my bag

2009-09-18T16:50:00.000-07:00

The baggage claim in Manila was CHAOS! I guess at some point a lady grabbed my bag on accident. Luckily she returned to the airport the next day.