Sta. Cruz is Literally at the Center of Laguna

Sta. Cruz is literally at the center of Laguna, Not only is it the capital of the province, just take a look at the map and you will know why. It is one of the centers of commerce of Laguna and the seat of the provincial government.

It can be considered as strategically located because it is accessible by land transportation and it enjoys the beauty of Laguna Lake. Prominent Lagunenses make it their home. What with a good ambience and clean surroundings.

Coming from the main highway, going to the inner sanctum of Sta. Cruz is via the P. Guevara Ave. For years, I have trekked this passage since the provincial government invited me to judge in several events and these were all held in the capital town.

The local government officials' effective management of the town has made it an important place in the Laguna economy. Sta. Cruz's motto of "Kaya Natin" is a positive reinforcement for the people to strive harder and feel positive of being citizens of the town.

Being at the forefront of development, Sta. Cruz is not spared by the influx of malls. But make no mistake, these establishments make it easy for people to go about their daily shopping needs. They augment the market with items that cannot be found in regular public markets.

Despite the modern amenities, Sta. Cruz still has its old reliable market which is the most go-to place by housewives for their family needs. The Sta. Cruz River is an artery to the Laguna Lake. It is the main tributary of the town.

The Immaculate Conception Parish Church is the main catholic church in Sta. Cruz. It is also known as the Sta. Cruz Church. The town's devotion to the Virgin Mary with the image of the Holy Guardian Angel was started by Fernando dela Concepcion in 1678 and was venerated in Sta. Cruz.

Greenery is still very lush in the municipality. Rice fields can even be seen on both sides of the national highway. As compared to other places, I should say that Sta. Cruz is successful in zoning its lands. Farming is alive there.

Of course, there are spaces for Lagunenses who like living in enclaves. Housing developers have sprung up for those who would want to feel secured living in villages. Camella and Bria at just two of the many housing projects in Sta. Cruz.

Sta. Cruz will always have a special place in my heart. With the many times that I have gone to the town, I can't just wait for the next time that I will set my foot there. Besides, it is where I discovered one of the most successful Filipina supermodels who is now based in New York - Charlene Almarvez, Filipino pride.

As always, her parents, Kagawad Teddy and Councilor Lea Almarvez never forget to see me when I am there. They have welcomed me to their home in Barangay Patimbao. I also enjoy the company of Charlene's aunts, Aina Alagon and Daisy Alagon-San Juan. I have not only made friends in Sta. Cruz. I have a new family there. Never to be forgotten are the staff of LTCATO in the Governor's Office who have not ceased to invite me to judge in their events through the years.

Kayang-kaya nyo yan, Sta. Cruz!

Credit to the owners of the photos.

The Waters that Surround Hawaii May Be Blue but Honolulu is Definitely Red

Honolulu is the capital city of the state of Hawaii in the United States of America. Located at the southeast coast of the island of O'ahu, the name of the city means "sheltered harbor" or "calm port." Just like any other American city, Honolulu is busy and life there is flaming red.

Whether from the mountain or from the sea, Honolulu has a stunning aerial view. Buildings add to the beauty of the city. But I can just imagine how beautiful it was during the olden days with the structures back then (some of which are still preserved in the whole city).

Just like any other modern city in the world, Honolulu has its share of tall buildings that makes it more cosmopolitan. But when I was there, even if there were tall structures around, there was always that Hawaiian atmosphere that you can only feel and experience there.

No wonder, it is one of the most visited cities on earth. I, myself, is a witness to that. When I arrived in Honolulu, there were a lot of flights that arrived at the time of our arrival and there were lots of tourists that visited the city from all over the globe.

With its many visitors, I think that the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport needs an upgrade to cater to the needs of the growing number of tourists. Its sea port is also as busy as its air counterpart. Growth is part of a beautiful city such as Honolulu and its facilities upgrade is necessary.

One thing that I noticed is the use of old structures for government offices. This is one way of preserving historical edifices and, at the same time, making use of them for important service-oriented offices. This way, culture is still rich and history is kept.

Wherever we go in the world, malls have become part of any country's culture. Honolulu has its Ala Moana Center which caters to all kinds of markets. They have affordable stores as well as high-end brands for everyone's shopping delight. The International Market Place is another option for locals and tourists as well.

Aside from swimming in the beaches of Honolulu, surfing is a reason for visiting the city. With the high waves from the Pacific Ocean, it really is an ideal surfing place. Mountain trekking is also a popular activity to appreciate the city more from the view above.

But whatever reason may be, a visit to Honolulu is a must once in someone's lifetime. For me, I will be back to this lovely city. The Filipinos there are even more hospitable. I felt that my 10-day stay was so short. Never there was a dull moment especially that I was able to meet new friends. Yes, the waters around Honolulu may be blue but the city is as red as can be.

Thank you to Lorna Imperial and Ramon Sumibcay for bringing me to Honolulu and for producing the "Islas" fashion show (which I directed) of Edgar Madamba held at the Grand Ballroom of the Dole Cannery. Other new-found friends worth the thank you are Pacita Ignacio, Bennie Medina, Sarah Luz Hosaka, Hawaii superstar Iwalani Tseu, Dr. Nancy Walsh, Charo Feliciano and all the countless others who made my stay a very memorable one.

From the bottom of my heart, MAHALO!

Credit goes to the owners of some of the photos.

The City of the Head of the Elder Known as Olongapo City

This city traces its name from a legend about two warring tribes and whose elder's head resting on a bambo pole was found by a boy. The boy then ran around town shouting "ulo ng apo" which means the head of the elder. Thus, the name Olongapo came into fruition.

Today, Olongapo is a busy independent city which has seen ups and downs through the years. As in any other centers in the different regions of the Philippines, Olongapo has its share of city problems that go with progress.

The local leaders of the past and present have made Olongapo City to what it is now...bustling, progressive and self-reliant. Thank God for government officials who have genuine love for the city. When I visit Olongapo, discipline is very evident. This discipline goes to the minds of its citizenry that is why it is clean and beautiful.

After the Americans left Subic Naval Base and the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo, many thought that it was the end of Olongapo City which relied much on the blessings that the naval base brought to its people. These two and the order of then President Estrada to close down business establishments inside the base made it hard for the people to cope with a triple whammy.

Olongapo City was able to return to its feet and they even have an SM City and an SMX Convention Center. Since it is a much sought-after place for seminars and convention, there should really be a venue for such events.

Local businesses still have their own markets despite the presence of a major mall and even with the shops inside nearby Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. With the increasing population of the city and the swell of visitors, there is always a niche for everyone.

Being a busy city should not be an excuse for government services to be neglected. Different government offices have their branches in Olongapo. This is to make sure that the people's needs will be addressed and served.

Olongapo City still have it natural charm intact. The beaches in the different barangays near the sea are conducive for family outings and swimming. The river is as clean as can be. Olongapo is synonymous to cleanliness.

Being at the gateway of the province of Zambales, Olongapo City is indeed in a strategic place that will help further its enhancement as a city and a catalyst for the further development of its mother province. With new highways built going to and coming from Olongapo, commute has become very easy.

Through the intercession of St. Joseph coupled with the discipline of its people, Olongapo City still has greater heights to achieve. It has been blessed and will continue to be blessed because its people are always aware that their city has to be the "ulo ng apo" in this side of the region.

Special mention to a departed friend, Brenda Lopez, who welcomed me and my friends to her home and family whenever we had weekend getaways to Olongapo City and Subic. We miss you and may you be at peace in the embrace of our Lord.

Credit to the owners of the photos.