< Back NUCLEAR SCIENCE IN ACTION BY TREISHA C. ROVERO DISCOVER HOW THE PHILIPPINE NUCLEAR RESEARCH INSTITUTE (PNRI) IS HARNESSING NUCLEAR TECHNOLOGY FOR INNOVATION AND PROGRESS. FROM RESEARCH AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS TO GROUNDBREAKING MEDICAL ADVANCEMENTS LIKE THE UPCOMING PET SCAN FACILITY, PNRI IS SHAPING A SAFER, MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR NUCLEAR ADVANCEMENTS IN THE PHILIPPINES. Few Filipinos are aware that the Philippines has a nuclear power plant in Bataan. This facility, built decades ago, was envisioned as a solution to make electricity more affordable and accessible for the country. However, public opinion on its safety became divided, particularly regarding the risks posed by natural calamities, especially in Bataan. As a result, the plant’s operations were halted, and it has remained dormant for so long. While the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant lies idle, a small yet active reactor operates in Quezon City. At the heart of the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) complex, nuclear technology is being utilized for research, education, and industry. Join us as we explore the innovative facilities within PNRI’s premises. PHILIPPINE RESEARCH REACTOR-1 (PRR-1) The Philippine Research Reactor-1 (PRR-1) holds the distinction of being the country’s first and only operational nuclear reactor, which ran from 1963 until its decommissioning in 1988. Established under the US Atoms for Peace Program, it marked the Philippines’ initial foray into nuclear energy. To maximize the use of the stored fuel elements from PRR-1, the PNRI launched the PRR-1 Subcritical Assembly for Training, Education, and Research (PRR-1 SATER). This small, zero-power reactor is designed for research, education, and nuclear-related training purposes. PRR-1 SATER showcases how nuclear technology can be harnessed safely for scientific advancement. PHILGAMMA Another key facility at PNRI is PHILGamma, a multipurpose gamma irradiation facility operated by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). This facility uses Cobalt-60, a radioactive source submerged in water, which emits a glowing blue light due to the phenomenon known as Cherenkov radiation. PHILGamma provides gamma irradiation services to various industries. It effectively eliminates microorganisms, sterilizes products, and decontaminates materials such as dried herbs, spices, and cosmetic raw ingredients. Unlike traditional sterilization methods, gamma irradiation ensures that food retains its flavor and quality. Impressively, products can even be treated while in their final packaging, showcasing the process’ efficiency and safety. ELECTRON BEAM IRRADIATION FACILITY PNRI also houses an Electron Beam Irradiation Facility (EBIF), established in 2014. This facility offers state-of-the-art services using high-voltage electron beams to sterilize medical and pharmaceutical goods. Beyond sterilization, the facility supports advancements in material science. It also enables degradation for recycling (breaking down materials for reuse), polymer crosslinking (enhancing the properties of polymer-based products, such as making wires flame-resistant or forming heat-shrinkable tubing), and liquid irradiation (treating liquid products for various industrial applications). These capabilities position PNRI as a hub for innovation, offering solutions for industries ranging from healthcare to manufacturing. While the dream of a fully operational nuclear power plant in the Philippines remains uncertain, facilities like those inside the PNRI demonstrate the country’s ability to harness nuclear technology responsibly and innovatively. Whether through research reactors, gamma irradiation, or electron beam technology, PNRI highlights the potential of nuclear science to improve lives and industries. WHAT LIES AHEAD PNRI is currently working on introducing a PET scan facility powered by nuclear technology. It aims to provide diagnostic imaging that can detect early signs of diseases including cancer, neurological disorders, and heart conditions. The facility will be using radioisotopes that will generate highly detailed images of biological processes within the body. It will be used to highlight any abnormal metabolic activity in cells providing accuracy in diagnosis. Once this project becomes operational, it will make PET scan more accessible to Filipinos and leverage nuclear technology in the country.

< Back JOKES AND A JINGLE: SEXISM AND MISOGYNY ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL BY GODFREY T. DANCEL SEXISM AND MISOGYNY, ALREADY TOUCHY ISSUES IN DAY-TO-DAY LIFE, REARED THEIR UGLY HEADS DURING THE CAMPAIGN PERIOD FOR THE MIDTERM ELECTIONS. THE COMELEC AND THE PEOPLE REACTED BY FIRMLY SAYING “ENOUGH!” In the Philippines, the traditional election campaign often includes the Three Gs: guns, goons, and gold. To this list could be added a fourth G: girls. While guns and goons are used to intimidate, and gold to buy support, girls are often used for entertainment or as subjects of degrading jokes. Women’s rights advocate Gabriela Women’s Party may have a valid point in its suggestion to add a fourth G. The run-up to the recently concluded midterm elections provided a clear glimpse of how some candidates—intentionally or otherwise—could use sexist and misogynistic behavior to court votes. Simply put, sexism is the belief that one sex is superior to another. This gender-based discrimination, prejudice, or stereotyping is most often expressed toward women and girls. On the other hand, misogyny is the hatred of, contempt for, or disregard for women or girls. It involves hostile attitude toward women based on the belief that they are inferior to men. Sexism and Misogyny on the Campaign Trail SINGLE WHAT? In early April, Pasig City congressional candidate Christian Sia joked that he was willing to sleep once a year with single mothers who are “still menstruating.” An uploaded video clip of the candidate making said statement quickly went viral, opening a floodgate of negative comments. Sia initially blamed the video uploader and his political opponents for blowing the issue out of proportion. The joke in question, he said, was simply meant to liven up the crowd. He explained that the joke came about after a previous meeting with solo parents. He had used it in other gatherings before the sortie where the video was taken, and that his audiences did not seem offended, leading him to assume that such kind of joke is okay. The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), however, disagreed. In an official statement, the commission stressed that “[p]ublic platforms must not be used to normalize sexist humor or reinforce harmful stereotypes under the guise of entertainment.” The PCW is the country’s policymaking, advisory, and coordinating body focusing on the development of gender-responsive policies and promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. Gabriela flagged Sia’s joke even as the group noted that it was not the first incident of women being “subjected to displays of machismo and misogynistic remarks from candidates who believe such behavior will win them votes.” For its part, election watchdog Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting reminded candidates to set good examples by being the first to uphold gender-related laws such as the Safe Spaces Act and Magna Carta for Women. Sia apologized for his joke, recognizing that he had gone too far and that “the things that single mothers go through [are] not a joking matter.” Sia was eventually disqualified by the Comelec’s Second Division days before the election. BEAUTIFUL NURSES ONLY? On the same day as Sia’s misstep, reelectionist Misamis Oriental Governor Peter Unabia made headlines after talking about his nursing scholarship program that is available “only for beautiful women… because if a male patient is already weak and an ugly nurse attends to him, his condition could worsen.” A video clip of the candidate’s speech was uploaded by a young voter, who described it as sexist. Baguio-based nurse and journalist Mia Magdalena Fokno described Unabia’s statement as “not just sexist” but also “medically unsound and ethically wrong.” “Saying nursing scholarships should be for ‘beautiful women only’ turns a noble profession into a beauty contest,” she lamented. “Nursing is not about looks. It’s about skill, compassion, and courage.” Noting how “Unabia’s words insult women, erase men, and reduce patients to shallow stereotypes,” Fokno called on others to correct the distorted view “by calling it out and by pushing for leaders who respect the dignity of work, not the illusion of beauty. We owe it to future nurses to create a culture that values competence over appearances.” Comelec issued a show cause order against the governor for violating Comelec Resolution No. 1116. The poll body also reiterated that “sexist remarks and gender discrimination have no place in a civilized society.” It eventually sought to disqualify Unabia for his sexist statement. WANT SOME COOKIES? Male candidates did not have a monopoly of supposed misogyny, sexism, and related acts during the campaign. Manila city council bet Mocha Uson was asked by Comelec to clarify the sexually suggestive tone of her campaign jingle. This came about due to Uson’s jingle and spiels that mention in part, “Ang cookie ni Mocha, ang sarap sarap” and “ang cookie ni Mocha para sa pagbabago.” The jingle references a cookie business Uson put up more than a decade ago, the profits from which eventually covered the medical bills of her baker who had been stricken with cancer. However, with cookie rhyming with the Filipino term for the female genitalia, and given Uson’s sexy image as an entertainer, it was easy to conjure a sexually-suggestive message from the jingle. With this, Comelec noted that “puns and double meanings may be used as literary devices in campaigns, but we hope that these are not used… to skirt the line between accepted speech and obscenity.” The letter also reminded Uson of the importance of “serious discussions… about policy, governance, and the future of communities” that she as a candidate needs to have; something that “sexually suggestive elements” in her campaign could muddle. Gabriela also criticized Uson, accusing her of perpetuating the “pattern of misogyny and objectification of women.” Gabriela leaders stressed the need for candidates to give women, children, and members of the LGBTQAI+ community the proper attention they need, and not to “use women’s bodies to gain attention.” Faced with the negative feedback, Uson took a path different from the male candidates previously issued show cause orders (SCO) by Comelec. In a letter to the poll body, she recognized “the importance of maintaining a respectful, inclusive, and age-appropriate tone in all campaign communications.” She also stated that she had ordered her team to immediately stop using the jingle and related materials in her campaign and that a review of her campaign materials was being done in order to align such with “the standards of decency and appropriateness expected in public discourse and electoral engagement.” NOTHING NEW, NOT ISOLATED INCIDENTS The use of sexist and misogynistic statements or attacks on candidates is not a new phenomenon in Philippine politics. Arguably one of the most controversial cases of election related sexism happened in 1986, with then-presidential candidate Cory Aquino being described as “just a woman” whose place was in the bedroom and not in the corridors of governmental power. Originating from her political rivals, this description of Aquino soon echoed throughout the country, used just as often as the criticism that she had no political experience. Aquino had a simple yet effective answer: “May the better woman win in this election.” The 2022 elections saw then-Vice President Leni Robredo, the lone female candidate for the country’s top post, having to deal with patriarchal norms of leadership. Was she strong enough to be president? Did she have the assertiveness, decisiveness, and competitiveness that the male candidates have? To these, Robredo—just like Aquino—had a simple yet powerful answer: “The best man for the job is a woman.” The gender-based criticism of Robredo had to be borne by her supporters. They had to stress that voters need to look at her track record and leadership capabilities rather than what she purportedly could not do because she is a woman. Female Kakampinks themselves had to endure sexist and misogynistic remarks especially in the bailiwicks of certain presidential candidates. Aside from inter-group incidents, intra-group sexism, misogyny, and related act such as homophobia and improper behavior have hounded some groups across the country. A former key cog in a successful volunteer group in the northern part of the country says that there were instances of sexism and even sexual abuse committed by “younger volunteers” toward their fellow volunteers during the 2022 campaign. The inaction of the group’s leadership regarding the matter, the source said, was among the reasons she left the group. Pressed for comment, a leader of the group vehemently denied the allegations. “No one came to me to complain about any [sexism and] sexual abuse issues within the group. Otherwise, we would have acted on it.” That allegations of sexism could be used to justify an unceremonious exit from a group, and weaponize the matter to cast doubt on such group, shows just how big an issue sexism could become. A CULTURE OF MISOGYNY That two of the country’s seven presidents since 1986 are female is often mentioned as proof of considerable success in closing the gender gap. The truth, however, is that males still lord it over females when it comes to politics. And when political leaders normalize sexist and misogynistic language and behavior, the people become quite desensitized to such. Recent surveys show that there is indeed a prevailing culture of misogyny in the Philippines. In fact, the figures presented by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the latest World Values Survey (WVS) are nothing but alarming. According to the UNDP’s Gender Social Norms Index (GSNI), nine out of ten (99.50 percent) Filipinos hold at least one form of bias against women. Broken down by dimension, 77.81 percent of Filipinos have economic bias against women, 75.50 have political bias against women, while 43. 61 percent have educational bias against women. This places the Philippines in tenth place out of 91 countries covered by the GSNI, just .42 percentage points better than Tajikistan, which topped the index. The top ten tag, however, is nothing to be proud of: the higher the GSNI value, the more biased are the citizens of a country. For comparison, the index’s lowest three—the United Kingdom, Sweden, and New Zealand—all have sub-30 percent index scores. Drawn from data covering the period 2005-2022, the GSNI also reveals that in general, biases against women hold across regions, cultures, as well as income and development levels. Meanwhile, the WVS Round 7, covering the years 2017 2022, shows that more than half of Filipinos agree/strongly agree that men make better political leaders than women do. Meanwhile, four out of ten Filipinos agree/strongly agree that men make better business executives than women do. The above, coupled with the seemingly permissive attitude that some Filipinos have taken toward public officials’ misogynistic, sexist, and homophobic statements in the past few years, seem to have emboldened politicians to include remarks of the same nature in their campaign speeches and spiels. NOT JUST NEGATIVE REACTIONS The way those who were involved in incidents of alleged sexism and misogyny reacted before and after they were given SCOs is worth noting. Sia and Unabia reacted in a similar negative manner, f irst blaming the video uploader and then putting some of the blame on their political opponents. Uson, on the other hand, became a bright spot in the sexism, misogyny, and improper language issue. By owning up to her mistake, agreeing with the Comelec on the need for respectful and age-appropriate language, and informing the body of her planned course of action, she showed some traits of a good public servant. These include welcoming feedback, acting on a concern, and coming up with a clear plan to prevent an issue from happening again. The reactions from various individuals and groups is also quite encouraging. Candidates, lawmakers and other government officials, as well as members of cause-oriented groups were one in condemning sexism and misogyny and calling on all candidates to do better. For its part, the PCW commended the Comelec for its swift action on Sia, noting that offensive remarks against solo mothers have “no place in public discourse, particularly during election periods.” The commission also acknowledged the public’s watchfulness and active involvement in exposing and reporting cases of sexism, misogyny, and other acts violative of campaign rules. Such “collective vigilance,” the PCW said, “signals a significant shift toward fostering a culture of respect and equality, where harmful gender stereotypes and discrimination are actively challenged.” Some groups, however, did not stop at calling out those involved in sexism and misogyny. For instance, Solo Parents Party-list urged the Comelec to disqualify Sia for his “offensive and harmful” statements. The partylist group’s spokesperson stressed that “statements that demean solo parents and perpetuate misogyny have no place in Philippine politics.” Meanwhile, the disqualification case filed by Comelec’s Task Force on Safeguarding Against Fear and Exclusion in Elections against Unabia was received positively by a number of groups. Gabriela also welcomed the case, describing it as a “crucial step in holding candidates and officials accountable for perpetuating sexism and misogyny.” DO WE NEED STRICTER RULES AND LAWS? In February 2025, Comelec issued Resolution 11116 or the Anti-Discrimination and Fair Campaigning Guidelines for the 2025 Elections. The resolution, among others, directs candidates to refrain from making derogatory statements against women, indigenous peoples, persons with disability, people living with HIV/AIDS, and members of other marginalized sectors of society. The resolution also mandates candidates to uphold equality and respect for all individuals. Following the much-talked about cases of sexism and misogyny, Comelec issued Resolution No. 11127 in early April to supplement Resolution No. 11116. The resolution declares all election-related events and venues as safe spaces. It also prohibits the use of foul language in the campaign. The Comelec’s swift action on sexism, misogyny, as well as discrimination and related actions during the campaign has sent a clear signal that the poll body is serious on making election-related events as safe spaces. Lessons learned from the just-concluded campaign and elections are sure to lead to more relevant rules in future poll activities. That there are also legislative proposals to deal with similar or related incidents is a positive indication that sexism and misogyny in the context of elections and public service could soon be dealt with more strongly. Gabriela, for instance, has filed a bill seeking to make the use of degrading and discriminatory statements against women as a ground for disqualification of candidates. Meanwhile, a bill filed last year seeks to impose stricter penalties for public officials involved in misogynistic and homophobic behavior. In the end, the public’s heightened awareness about the nature and ill effects of sexism and misogyny will be a game-changer. Coupled with better implementation of stricter rules, this could help lead to elections where track record and platforms, rather than sexist jokes and misogynistic behavior, take center stage.

< Back A LEADER WHO WALKS THE TALK BY ROSY MINA PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROMEO PERALTA JR. Barangay Chairperson Roxas is a leader who commands and directs by example; espousing a credible and generous brand of leadership. It’s 6:30 in the morning, just over an hour after sunrise. While most barangay chairpersons are about to get their day started, Alfredo “Freddy” Roxas is already at the Barangay Kaligayahan Hall in Quezon City—a routine for the second-term chairman. “When it comes to leadership, you should set a very good example. Kailangang ipakita mo kung ano ‘yung gusto mong maging direction sa mga tao (It is necessary that you show the people the direction you want to take),” Roxas tells LEAGUE. He gestures to the table where he takes his breakfast daily, sharing that such practice began when he was working in his family’s school that caters to preschool up to college students.\ He confesses to being late a few times, arriving at 7 a.m., which is still earlier than the usual start of office hours. Because of this, his employees have become time-conscious as well. “Napasunod ko sila hindi dahil sa sinasabi ko. Napasunod ko sila dahil ginagawa ko (I was able to make them do the same not because I told them to. They followed what I do).” RELUCTANT CANDIDATE Roxas, 58, was born to a business-minded family in Tondo, Manila. He himself got into small ventures before putting up their school. Since the 1990s, Roxas and his family have been giving grocery packs to residents near the school every Christmas. It was because of this holiday gift-giving that Roxas became known in the neighborhood, prompting residents to ask if he wanted to be their barangay chairperson. That was more than two decades ago, and his answer was a resounding no. “Walang pulitiko sa pamilya eh (There were no politicians in the family),” reasons the BS Mathematics graduate. “Until such time na kakakulit, kakakulit (that with persistent prompting), I tried to run for the barangay chairperson position in 2007. Wala, hindi nga ako interesado, talo ako (Since I was not really interested, I lost) by more than a hundred votes,” Roxas laments. He ran again in 2010, after much prompting, and lost because his interest remained half-hearted and his family was not for it. In 2013, it was third time’s the charm when he said to himself that he wanted to prevail, and he finally won. THE TURNAROUND What changed Roxas’ mind after all those years of shunning politics? “Hinahanap ko na ‘yung pag-iikot ko sa area. Hinahanap ko na ‘yung makapag-serve sa kanila (I was already longing for the experience of going around the area. I was longing for the chance to be able to serve them),” he reveals. The possibility of helping more people with government funds encouraged Roxas to give it another shot, especially since he had experienced many hardships since childhood. “Lahat ng hirap, struggles sa buhay, inabot namin. But then ‘yung sipag, tiyaga ng grandparents, parents ko, ‘yun ang nagmotivate sa buong family na magsikap talaga (We experienced all sorts of hardships and struggles in life. But then the diligence and perseverance of my grandparents and parents motivated the whole family to strive hard),” he says about growing up in a depressed area in Tondo. “So don’t give up. Habang buhay tayo ay may pag-asa. Importante lang huwag ka mang apak ng kapwa mo. Araw-araw basta nagsisikap ka, darating din ‘yan (For as long as we live, there is hope. What is important is that you don’t aggravate your neighbor. As long as you are striving every day, you will get where you want to be).” Because of his life story, his advocacies involve prioritizing and providing assistance for those in depressed areas as well as senior citizens, persons with disability (PWDs), and solo parents. A HALL OF FAMER SO SOON Roxas relates that he promised his constituents, “Ipagmamalaki nilang tagaBarangay Kaligayahan sila. Kasi sa city, hindi naman kilala ang Barangay Kaligayahan kasi wala namang awards na nakukuha (They will be proud that they are from Barangay Kaligayahan. Because Barangay Kaligayahan is not well-known in the city as it had not received awards).” In his first term, he thrice received the Dangal ng Lungsod Award—the highest recognition given to a well-performing barangay by the local government of Quezon City and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). In 2020, during his second term—which he won via landslide victory—he was declared a Dangal ng Lungsod Hall of Famer for winning the award for three consecutive years. He notes that out of the 142 barangays in Quezon City, only five are Dangal ng Lungsod Hall of Famers, with the other four having achieved it after their respective chairpersons were already in office for more than a decade. “Kapag meron akong pinasok, gusto ko maging achiever. Gusto ko maging performer. Hands-on talaga ako, nakatutok ako lagi. Kahit noong nasa sales pa ako, kapag talagang ginusto ko maging topnotcher, talagang tinututukan ko nang husto (Once I get involved in something, I want to be an achiever. I want to be a performer. I am really hands-on and always focused. Even when I was in sales, when I really wanted to be a topnotcher, I really focused well on it).” Roxas became the Quezon City Liga ng mga Barangay (LnB) President in 2018, which is a great achievement for him because he earned the trust of chairpersons from districts that have more barangays than District 5, which only has 14. With several job titles, including chairperson of the Committee on Barangay Affairs, Roxas juggles his responsibilities to accomplish more aside from implementing livelihood and support projects. Among his accomplishments are the quarterly LnB Consultative Assemblies, Barangay Anti-Crime Patrol Group, institutionalization of the barangay public safety officers, and provision of LnB medical and hospitalization cash incentives or reimbursements. “Yun ang binago ko, ‘yung image talaga ng barangay (I changed the image of the barangay),” declares Roxas, who paved the way for the construction of facilities and buildings in Barangay Kaligayahan and installation of solar panel LED street lights and 185 closed circuit television (CCTV) units, with plans to add 20 more. PASSION TO SERVE Roxas may have made it look easy to achieve a lot in such a short time, but it is definitely not a walk in the park. “24/7 kasi ang role ng barangay chairperson. Wala ka talagang pahinga. Kung talagang nasa puso ‘yung pagiging kapitan, 24/7 ‘yan (The role of a barangay chairperson is 24/7. You don’t really have time to rest. If being chairperson is really in your heart, it is a 24/7 commitment).” Before he sleeps, he would monitor developments in his barangay over the radio and give orders to contact him when something happens. “Ayokong may lalabas na problema diyan na hindi ko alam, ‘yung sasabog na lang sa mukha ko. Doon nila ako nakikitang magalit. Huwag kayong magtatakipan. Dahil mas maganda, may problema, sa umpisa palang inaayos na natin (I don’t like it when a problem arises and I am kept in the dark about it. It will just explode in my face. That is when they see me get angry. Don’t cover up one another’s mistakes. Because it is better to nip a problem in the bud).” Despite the demands of his job, what keeps him going is the passion to serve and set a good example for his employees and constituents. “‘Pag ‘yung tao dumating sa iyong umiiyak o kaya nakasimangot dahil sa problema, at umalis sa iyong nakangiti na gumaan ‘yung buhay, ‘yun ang nagpapasaya sa akin. ‘Yun ang nagmo-motivate sa akin (When a person comes and he is crying or frowning because of a problem, and leaves smiling because his life was made better, that is what makes me happy. That is what motivates me).” PANDEMIC CHALLENGES AND REALIZATIONS Looking back on his political career, Roxas cites the Dangal ng Lungsod Hall of Fame and serving during the COVID-19 pandemic as his most memorable moments. He shares anecdotes on the pandemic from the barangay chairpersons’ perspective. “Nag-iiyakan ‘yun kasi sa hirap ng problema, sa dami ng problemang inaabot ng barangay (They were crying because of the gravity of the problems, the many problems that the barangay had to deal with),” he says, adding that they had to deal with providing ayuda (assistance) every day from the barangay, city, and national government. Aside from finding ways to efficiently provide financial and material assistance, barangays also had to repack grocery items, set up checkpoints, monitor patients and hotspots, and man the Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams (BHERTs). As the pandemic was unprecedented, it was tricky and risky to go about it. He says it was difficult to reconcile the government’s goal to minimize the spread of the virus with the public’s need to go out and make a living. With the pandemic still ongoing albeit currently on the downtrend, Roxas hails the barangay employees as selfless public servants. He sadly shares that several barangay chairpersons and kagawads (barangay councilmen) have passed away due to COVID-19, and many have contracted the virus. Fortunately he has not been infected, but has been isolated from his family for almost two years because of the nature of his job. “Hindi nagpasarap mga kapitan natin. Frontliners talaga ang barangay [officials] (Our chairpersons did not have a good time. Barangay officials are really frontliners),” he remarks. “Bigayan ng ayuda, wala kaming pakialam kung may COVID-19 ‘yung dadalhan namin. Dire-diretso lang kami (When we give out assistance, we do not care if the recipients have COVID-19. We just go straight ahead).” NO PLACE FOR GREED IN PUBLIC SERVICE Even before and during the pandemic, Roxas makes known that his accomplishments are fruits of cooperation. “Team effort ‘yan, lahat ng empleyado ng barangay (That is a team effort, all of the barangay employees). From the barangay captain down to the street sweepers. Kahit na street sweepers ko, may contribution sa lahat ng awards namin. Sa lahat ng trabaho namin, kasama sila (Even my street sweepers have a contribution to all of our awards. In all our work, they are with us).” On a personal note, Roxas opens up about not making it in this year’s electoral race for seats in the city council. Despite this, he carries on with demonstrating fidelity to duty. The day after the May 9 elections, Roxas was back in the barangay hall at 6:30 a.m. “Kaysa magmukmok ako sa bahay (Instead of moping at home),” he shares, “Trabaho na lang ako. ‘Yun ang ginawa ko (I just worked. That’s what I did).” He accepts the limitations of his term, and continues to wish for greater prosperity for Barangay Kaligayahan. “Ayaw ko ring sabihin na gusto ko ako ‘yung magaling lang na kapitan ng barangay. Gusto ko ‘yung susunod sa akin maging mas magaling (I do not want to say that I want myself to be the only good chairperson of the barangay. I want my successor to be better than me).” Apart from being credible, Roxas brand of leadership is also generous. “Sa public service, hindi ka kailangang greedy. Kailangan diyan sa public service, gusto mo marami kang kasamang magagaling (In public service, you should not be greedy. What is needed in public service is that you want to be surrounded by great colleagues),” he asserts. “Dahil kapag marami kayong magagaling, magiging madali ang trabaho at maraming taong makikinabang (Because when a lot of public servants are great, the work will be easier and more people will benefit from it),” he ends.

BACK GEN. GUILLERMO ELEAZAR Gen. Guillermo Eleazar is striving to clean the system before he leaves his post as PNP Chief. BY HELEN HERNANE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MANUEL GENEROSO L eading the 220,000-strong Philippine National Police (PNP) force is no easy task. But despite having only six months to serve as its chief, General Guillermo Eleazar is determined to leave his mark. And instead of changing the system by applying institutional changes, Eleazar wants to focus on strictly implementing existing rules and laws. “All of the necessary policies, programs, and doctrines already exist. Every past PNP Chief thought of everything to further improve the force. Even with every new situation, there are revised memorandum circulars. Everything is in place, what needs improvement is enforcing them, especially those [rules] which people tend to overlook because of the system or perhaps, culture,” Eleazar stresses.

< Back COVID-19: The Viral Timeline The COVID-19 pandemic forced the world into a “new normal,” causing the global economy to plummet. It all began on December 31, 2019. What has happened since? BY GRACE BAUTISTA December 31, 2019 The Wuhan Municipal Health Commission in China reported a pneumonia outbreak in Hubei Province. A novel coronavirus strain was then identified. January 4, 2020 The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that they have begun investigating the cluster outbreak cases of pneumonia of unknown cause in Wuhan, China. There were 44 suspected cases. Most of the affected worked at the Huanan seafood market. January 22 to 23 Confirmed number of cases was at 580, according to China’s National Health Commission. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus decided not to declare the outbreak as a “public health emergency of international concern” yet. Wuhan shut down public transportation, including railway stations and airports. Other Chinese cities also went into lockdown and the Forbidden City was closed. Then, the 2019-nCoV was reported in Singapore and Vietnam, and the Philippines stopped accepting flights from Wuhan, China. January 24 to 27 Around 500 Chinese tourists in the Philippines were flown back to Wuhan, China. Fourteen people were under investigation in the Philippines for suspected coronavirus infection. More countries reported cases of 2019- nCoV: the United States of America, Nepal, Australia, France, Malaysia, Canada, Cambodia, Germany, and Sri Lanka. February 27 to 28 Ghebreyesus advised countries to act aggressively to contain the virus as the global risk of COVID-19 spread was raised to “very high” and 46 countries had reported cases. Click here to read full article for free

00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000001 < BACK LAL-LO MAYOR FLORENCE OLIVER PASCUAL Mayor Oliver Pascual reveals that despite criticisms and insults, he stays calm and patient. For him, bringing their town to new heights requires an approachable leadership style BY HELEN HERNANE PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL SORIANO The 2022 Elections is drawing near and troll accounts have been very active in posting false accusations or defamatory remarks on social media. Nowadays, turning on the television also mostly means encountering heated political arguments with criticism that are mostly thinly-veiled insults. For incumbents like Mayor Oliver Pascual of Lal-lo, Cagayan, this chaotic circus isn’t really surprising at all. Thus, he always addresses such with calmness and patience. “Of course, criticisms really hurt, because whatever you do, there will always be complaints and critics will always exist. But I just keep in mind my father’s advice that I have to decide consistently for the good of the majority. Unceasingly bank on what is right and you will never go wrong” Mayor Pascual shares. However, the young mayor of Lal-lo is far from being closed off from hearing thoughts and ideas from his townspeople. He also shared that pre-pandemic, he’d been very active in joining celebrations in which he would often have comfortable and honest discussions with his constituents. “Mas nararamdaman ko yung sinasabi ng tao. They can easily say what they think—positive or negative. Sometimes, I hear their thoughts and feedbacks; their opinions over my ideas and projects. I usually take it as constructive criticism. Kung meron man silang sasabihin na hindi maganda about the administration, at least we can discuss it over a friendly conversation. If I see the point in their arguments, then I patiently listen and talk to them on how we can solve the matter that is being raised,” Pascual adds. Finding Balance Mayor Oliver comes from a family of politicians that have previously led the municipality—his great grandfather, former Mayor Lucilo Pascual; his grandfather, former Vice Mayor Inocencio Pascual; his father, and his mother former Mayor (incumbent Vice Mayor) Maria Olivia Pascual. Mayor Oliver admitted that his father, Lal-lo former Mayor Florante Pascual, does not concur with some of his ways of connecting with people. But Pascual is adamant on leading in his own way, distinct from his parents’ leadership style. “My dad is very traditional; he’s very calm and seldom gets angry. My mother on the other hand, was extremely strict. Kung baga sa principal, a terror one. Actually, they have opposing styles. When I entered politics, I promised to myself that I would try to find balance in their leadership styles” the young mayor shares. “Everyone knows that they can easily approach me with their problems, and if I can do something about it, I do immediately respond. Likewise, as a millennial, I am definitely open to alternative ways of solving difficulties. It’s okay to be guided ‘by the book,’ as long as it does not limit me from hearing other perceptions. No matter what style, I want to make a difference. Despite this, the young mayor knows how to pay respect to his parents by constantly consulting them on his decisions. And whenever they give him their vote of confidence and acknowledge his growth as public servant, he admits that he’s delighted. While they are openly supportive of him now, Pascual shares that it wasn’t always the case, because his parents kept their distance when he first thought of entering politics. Pascual was studying in Manila when his father became the town’s mayor in 2001. He had witnessed his father’s compassion to serve his people and the ideals of progress he had for their town. These eventually drove him to return home. After finishing my secondary education, I studied in Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Manila (PLM) and took up engineering because my dad was into the construction business. However, I was halfhearted with my studies; I wanted to be like my dad, a Certified Public Accountant,” he reveals. After three semesters, Pascual decided to transfer to the Philippine School of Business Administration where he studied for two semesters. After which, he decided to go back to Cagayan and transfer to Lyceum of Aparri to finish his degree in Accountancy. Going home had led him to run for a position in public office as Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Chairman. However, the law was then amended and unfortunately, the age limit was lowered to 18 years old. As a 21-year-old, he was no longer qualified, but he patiently waited a couple of years to run for barangay captain instead. When the young mayor told his parents about his decision, they both challenged him to campaign alone. His mother was the Lal-lo mayor that time. “They didn’t tell me, ‘Go ahead and run we will help you’. No, that wasn’t the case. They told me, ‘If you really want to become a public servant, do it yourself. You have to prove that you really want to serve and you’re willing to work hard for it, not because your mother is the mayor and so was your father.’ After I filed my candidacy, my parents left for America. Honestly, I was so nervous back then. Nevertheless, I had mustered courage and ran—to prove myself, to prove that I really want to serve my people,” Pascual stresses. In 2007, he won as barangay captain of Bagumbayan, and eventually became the president of the Liga ng mga Barangay and ex-officio member of the city council. During this period, he as well obtained his master’s in Development Management and Governance at University of Makati. After two consecutive terms as barangay captain, he aimed for a higher position. He was then elected as vice mayor of Lal-lo in 2013 and 2016, then mayor in 2019. Pascual is definitely aware of his privilege, saying that the recognition of their name is an advantage but one that also comes with a price. He added that “During elections, we always expect [that] people will try to destroy our name and reputation. The last election was particularly challenging; we even had to file cases against our opponents.” Anyhow, he is still grateful that the election was still relatively peaceful. “Battle of Words” he says, but not a “bloody war.” Mayor Pascual also added that this is to be expected because Lalloqueños are peace-loving citizens. “It is just so disheartening that the latest election was particularly dirty. But thank God, nothing [dangerous] happened. As I always point out, when dealing with this kind of situation, we have to stay patient and calm in making decisions. Decisions made during outbursts of emotions will always lead to bigger problems,” Pascual emphasizes. When asked about what motivates him to continue his work, Pascual’s answer is simple—his passion to serve his people and solve their town’s problems. But as with any other job, there is always a sacrifice. For him, he has to sacrifice his time with his family since all of his five children are Manila-based. But because of the pandemic, his two children are staying with him and studying online. “Sacrificing your time is part of being a politician. I am just so grateful that my children are very understanding of the situation. Sometimes, they find the situation difficult, however, whenever they get to spend their vacation with me, they witnessed the work I do and they always tell me that they’re proud.” Pascual also revealed that some of his children have expressed their intentions to follow in his footsteps. For him, it’s the ultimate sign of respect—his children not only understand the importance of his work, but they also want to serve in the same manner. Now that they have shown interest, he wants to mold his children by letting them strive for their aspirations—in the same way his parents did. He said that he understood the intention behind his parents’ action back then, and wanted his children to learn beyond the lesson too. He further pointed out that “If you do not work hard for your position or dream, you will not appreciate it and you will not be as dedicated. Kapag pinaghirapan mo at ibinuhos mo ‘yung time and effort mo, you will enjoy every second of serving the people. You will surely have the passion and the heart to listen to your people and be driven enough to solve their problems, even personal ones.” As for his personal aspirations, he wishes to continue serving his town, Lal-lo. Further, he also shares that he has definite plans and projects in mind to continuously develop the municipality. Pascual also shares that someday he would like to run for higher office. “It would be hypocritical of me to deny that I don’t want to [run for higher office]. Politicians, whenever they feel like they’ve done their best in their jurisdiction, feel the need to do it on a bigger scale and help more people. And if I would be given the chance to do so, why not?” he says. Destined For Greatness The Municipality of Lal-lo was one of the first four cities in the Philippines and was established in 1581. It was formerly known as Ciudad de Nueva Segovia. As one of the first four cities in the Philippines, Lal-lo is determined to promote their town’s historical significance and restore its cityhood. In 2012, Pascual’s father started the town’s petition to restore its cityhood. He wasn’t alone in this endeavor, as the former 1st District of Cagayan Representative, Juan Ponce Enrile, Jr. was also pushing for the same. Under the Local Government Code, municipalities must meet certain requirements—average annual income of at least Php100 million in the last two consecutive years and either a contiguous territory or land area of 100 square kilometers (certified by the Land Management Bureau) or a population of at least 150,000 people (certified by the Philippine Statistics Authority). This year, however, the House of Representatives passed on third and final reading House Bill 8207 which revises the requirements. Under the bill, a municipality (or a cluster of barangays) may turn into a city if it has a population of at least 100,000 or a contiguous territory of 100 square kilometers. Having met either, the LGU must also generate a yearly income of Php250 million in the past two consecutive years, as certified by the Department of Finance. Nevertheless, there is another way. In the 1990s, both Naga City (Nueva Caceres) and Vigan City (Ciudad Fernandina) were converted into cities by applying for their historical rights. The town of Lal-lo hopes to achieve the same, once they find one basic requirement—an authentic historical document that proves their former city status. City or not, Lal-lo has always celebrated this historical event and was supposed to gear up for the town’s 440th Patronal Town Fiesta this 2021, which was cancelled due to the pandemic. They are also working on boosting and developing the town’s historical (and religious) tourist spots. Among the sites that they wish to promote are the Tocolana Ruins—a church and hospital that was destroyed during the world war; and the Shell Midden—a heap of various shells that have been studied for centuries since they are considered as cultural deposits. These middens often contain bone artifacts, food remains, and even ceramics. Pascual shares that the National Museum personnel have been digging in areas where those shell middens were located and they were able to retrieve artifacts, such as old pots. These historical relics were brought to Manila for safekeeping and for further study. Once Lal-lo is able to establish its own museum, the National Museum assures that they will provide replicas of the items. The original pieces must stay in Manila since Lal-lo doesn’t have the resources to maintain the fragile items. The young mayor believes it is alright since the goal is to preserve such delicate items and educate the public, which can be easily achieved through replicas. The people who live here, especially the children, should know the past of our town. Even at an early age, they should be taught about our culture and history. If we don’t ensure this passing on of knowledge, from generation to generation, time will come that the people will outgrow our history and eventually, it will be forgotten,” the mayor asserts. Apart from the historical sites, Lal-lo is also looking to boost its natural tourism destinations. Even during the pandemic, the local government has been pushing forward with its development with the hopes that local and international tourism will soon be restored, especially now that vaccines have been rolling out. The idealistic leader also endeavors to train local tour guides that will have in-depth knowledge of the town’s history and culture. Around three years ago, they first eased the people into knowing more about their past by launching a quiz bee during fiestas. With this, they have gathered potential guides who were already historically well-versed. While the pandemic has halted events, Mayor Oliver is hopeful that things will jumpstart again, when everything returns to normal. Lal-lo is also working on its infrastructure, such as river control projects. While the plan has clear benefits on minimizing flood damage during typhoon and rainy season, another goal is to create a place for locals and tourists to relax and have fun. “We requested funds for the river control project. This includes turning the place into a boulevard, like a boardwalk. People could utilize the place to bike, jog, children could play, and it could also be a performance ground,” Pascual shares as the team explores the site. “We are also planning on putting up a gazebo, wherein people could conduct photoshoots, have gatherings, and even weddings.” The municipality also has its own international airport which was inaugurated on August 18, 2019, during Mayor Oliver’s incumbency. The Cagayan North International Airport is located between the Barangays of San Mariano and Dagupan, and it has been built to support the Cagayan Special Economic Zone in conjunction with Port Irene which handles the seaborne traffic. Our Country’s Future Pascual is also focused on the holistic growth of their town’s youth and children. Aside from honing their historical knowledge, the young leader strongly encourages the [youth] to get into sports. He shares that before the pandemic, he used to join in local basketball games (liga) in order to bond with his fellow Lalloqueños. Under his father’s leadership (with him as the vice mayor) in 2018, they inaugurated the town’s multi-purpose gymnasium which seats up to 2,000 people. The mayor, who is an avid sportsman himself, wishes to get more children interested in trying out other types of sports, not just basketball (although the gym is fitted for that sport). “I’m really concentrating on the youth and getting them involved in sports. Because aside from the holistic development it may give, it’s also our way of supporting the national government’s efforts towards eradicating illegal drugs and discouraging the youth from using such,” he iterates. Pascual also envisions constructing an even larger stadium in town, which could someday host the Palarong Pambansa. It is another project in pursuit of the town’s goal of enhancing its growth potentials which is emphasized by their vision—Lal-lo Shines. It’s a four-in-one plan— encourage the kids to try sports; further develop town’s local athletes’ skills; bring tourism and business into the town when they host national (and even international) sports events; and lastly, keep people away from illegal drugs. Centuries ago, Miguel de Cervantes said, “Forewarned, forearmed; to be prepared is half the victory.” With all the concrete plans and projects underway or ready to be unveiled, the Municipality of Lal-lo is simply biding its time during this pandemic. As the world trudges towards eradicating the virus, the town patiently waits for its chance at the limelight. With the leadership and guidance of Mayor Oliver Pascual, the town is surely prepared; Lal-lo is halfway to victory.

< Back ILOCOS SUR: A TAPESTRY OF NATURAL AND MANMADE WONDERS BY NEPHELINE LIM DACUNO A Tapestry of Natural ILOCOS SUR IS PROOF THAT THE PHILIPPINES HAS A LOT MORE TO OFFER THAN JUST POSTCARD-PERFECT BEACHES. RICH IN HISTORY, CULTURE, AND JAW-DROPPING LANDSCAPES, THIS NORTHERN GEM IS READY TO STEAL THE SPOTLIGHT The Philippines, with its more than 7000 islands, is a place that often comes to life on social media—clear blue waters, soft white sand, and nature at its finest. It is the image that many of us picture when we think of the country. But the Philippines has so much more to offer, and one place that truly captures its essence is Ilocos Sur. This northern province might not always make the headlines, but it has a rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty that is hard to beat. More and more travelers are discovering that there is a lot more to the Philippines than the typical postcard sights—and Ilocos Sur is definitely one of the places to put on your list if you are looking for something truly special. VIGAN AND HERITAGE VILLAGE Start your adventure on Heritage Village, the city’s iconic street, where the old-world charm is so thick you can almost taste it. As you wander, you will find yourself surrounded by quaint shops, inviting dining spots, and the ever-present kalesas— horse-drawn carriages that will give you a nostalgic tour of the city. Along the way, the delicious scent of Ilocano empanada and longganisa wafts through the air, tempting you to duck into one of the hidden eateries tucked behind colonial facades. It is a perfect blend of history and flavor that will leave you wanting more. ILOCOS SUR MUSICAL DANCING FOUNTAIN Tucked between the provincial capitol and St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Ilocos Sur Musical Dancing Fountain offers a fun way to end your day. As the evening sets in, the fountain comes alive with water dancing to upbeat tunes, while colorful lights illuminate the streams. The show runs for about 30 minutes, filling the entire length of the lagoon at Plaza Salcedo with energy. It is a popular spot where both locals and visitors gather to watch, and it is easy to see why. After a day of exploring the historic streets of Vigan, this lively, light-hearted display offers the perfect way to unwind and take in the beauty of the city. LOGO BEACH FLOATING COTTAGES If you are looking to escape the crowds and find a beach that still has that hidden treasure vibe, Logo Beach Floating Cottages in the town of Sinait is where you need to be. A stone’s throw away from Vigan, this place feels like the best-kept secret in the province—quiet, clean, and blissfully tourist-free. The beach is exactly what you would picture: soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and little to no distractions (apart from a few curious locals, of course). But the real star of the show? The floating cottages. These quirky little gems sit right on the water, with a hole in the middle that lets you dive straight into the sea—no need for complicated diving gear or a pricey boat tour. You can literally lounge, dip, and repeat all day long. And do not stress if you are visiting during peak season and all the floating cottages are booked; there are beach cottages available too. For around Php700 to Php1500, you get a full day of relaxation with your family or friends. Even if you do not have the luxury of a full day lounging in the floating cottages, make sure you carve out some time to visit the coast of Lugo Beach. According to legend, this very beach is where the locals recovered a box in the 1600s that contained the image of the Santo Cristo Milagroso, or Apo Lakay, as the residents affectionately call it. Today, the image is now enshrined at Minor Basilica of Tolentino Sanctuary of Sto. Cristo and the replica of the statue is placed in the small chapel along the shore of the beach. PINAKBET FARM Hungry for a taste of local culture? Head over to Pinakbet Farm in the nearby town of Caoayan, where your appetite will meet tradition in the most delicious way. Owned by the municipal government, this is not your average farm-to-table spot—it is a authentic kamayan-style dining experience where forks, spoons, and knives take a backseat to good old fashioned finger licking fun. Here, meals are served in a bilao (winnowing basket), and servers plate your feast into individual baskets. Their star dish? Pinakbet, of course! The restaurant’s version is a medley of freshly cooked vegetables served straight out of a bamboo stem. Wash down your meal with tanglad (lemongrass) juice and end the feast with balikutcha (pulled sugar candy). With every bite, you will savor the flavor of locally grown produce harvested right from their farm. Come hungry, leave happy— and maybe a little more connected to the land. CORAZON C. AGOSTO ETHNIC HANDWOVEN CENTER No trip to Ilocos Sur is complete without exploring the art of traditional pinilian weaving. The eponymous Corazon C. Agosto Ethnic Handwoven Center in the town of Santiago, established by the master weaver after whom it was named, proudly preserves this intricate craft. This 50-year-old weaving hub employs 20 skilled artisans from the Agosto family, who endeavor to keep their techniques authentic and their heritage alive. Each day, they create about 20 table runners, priced at Php1800, and stunning handwoven bags starting at Php1500. If you are searching for a meaningful keepsake, these handmade textiles offer a beautiful way to take a piece of Ilocano culture home with you. SANTIAGO COVE Santiago Cove is often lovingly referred to as La Union’s quieter sister. With its finer sand, gentler seas, and noticeably smaller crowds, it is the perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility. While it may lack the floating cottages of Lugo Beach, Santiago Cove more than makes up for it with its serene ambiance and unspoiled beauty. As the day winds down, the beach transforms into a front-row seat to one of the most majestic sunsets in the region. Picture this: the sun dipping below the horizon, its golden hues framed by swaying palm trees and a pristine stretch of white sand. If you prefer sunbathing to surfing and crave a peaceful escape, this hidden gem in the north deserves a spot on your itinerary. AW-ASEN FALLS If you are chasing a natural wonder that truly lives up to the name, consider Aw-Asen Falls as a must-visit spot. Known as the “Enchanted Aw-Asen Falls,” the waterfall is located at Barangay Santo Rosario, Sigay, Ilocos Sur. Its beauty is the kind that words—or even photos—cannot quite capture. The adventure begins with a trek through lush forests, where every step brings you closer to this hidden gem. When you finally arrive, the sight of the falls plunging into its clear basin is nothing short of magical. And the best part? You can cool off with a refreshing dip, letting the cascading waters add a little enchantment to your experience. SKYLINE ILOCOS SUR After conquering the trek to Aw-Asen Falls, reward yourself with a scenic drive to the Skyline View Deck in Quirino. Perched high in the Ilocos mountains, this breathtaking spot is famous for its mesmerizing “sea of clouds” phenomenon. Imagine standing above the world as thick clouds blanket the mountain peaks, creating an illusion of floating on a celestial ocean. For the most magical experience, visit at sunrise when the clouds are at their thickest and the golden hues of dawn light up the horizon. But do not worry if early mornings aren’t your thing—the view deck offers stunning vistas all day long. From its perch, you can marvel at the rolling terraces, rugged mountains, and lush greenery that make this spot a must-visit for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. SANTUARIO DE NUESTRA SEÑORA DE LA ASUNCION CHURCH Ilocos Sur is home to an array of centuries-old churches, but the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion Church, or Santa Maria Church, is in a league of its own. Often featured in bridal fairs and known as one of the province’s top wedding venues, this architectural masterpiece also holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the four Baroque churches of the Philippines on the list. Its striking facade is a showstopper, but here is the twist: you will need to put in some legwork to admire it up close. Perched on a hill, the church is accessible via a grand stairway with 85 steps. It is a workout, no doubt, but the reward is well worth the effort. At the top, you will be greeted by sweeping views, a sense of history, and a welldeserved moment of triumph. Think of it as combining sightseeing with a fitness challenge! MORO WATCHTOWER The Moro Watchtower, built in the 16th century, proudly holds the title of the oldest landmark in the town of San Esteban. This historic structure was constructed as a defensive outpost during the height of the Spanish-Moro Wars, a centuries-long conflict that began in the 1500s. Standing as a silent witness to centuries of history, the watchtower remains a testament to the resilience and strategic ingenuity of its time. Visitors can explore the tower up close, stepping inside to reach the top of the tower. MINOR BASILICA OF ST. NICHOLAS OF TOLENTINO SANCTUARY OF STO. CRISTO Founded in 1574, the Minor Basilica of St. Nicholas of Tolentino Sanctuary of Sto. Cristo, also known as the Sinait Basilica, is one of the oldest religious structures in the Philippines. Its striking facade commands attention, but what lies within is just as captivating. Step inside, and you will find yourself awestruck by the towering ceilings and, more importantly, the revered shrine of Apo Lakay, also known as Santo Milagroso. Remember the statues that were found ashore at Lugo Beach centuries ago? They are now housed at the shrine, inviting pilgrims and curious travelers alike to marvel at their beauty and the history they embody. MAPISI ROCK Ilocos Sur is not just about churches and historic streets—the province also boasts some awe-inspiring natural wonders. One of the most remarkable sights is Mapisi Rock, a striking formation of coral rocks located in Santiago. These massive boulders, which have split apart to create a cave-like structure, stand tall and you can see the natural marbling of the rocks embedded inside. Locals believe the rocks were split by a natural event, likely an earthquake, leaving behind this captivating formation. You can use your imagination as to how it was formed!

< Back Nurturing a University’s Dreams Through Fatherly Love BY RAGIE MAE TAÑO-ARELLANO IN A FIELD CHARACTERIZED BY RANKINGS AND COMPETITION, PAMANTASAN NG LUNGSOD NG MAYNILA IS CHARTING A UNIQUE PATH—ONE THAT IS ROOTED IN EMPATHY, DISCIPLINE, AND CARE. LIGHTING THIS PATH IS A LEADERSHIP FOUNDED ON FATHERLY LOVE, ONE THAT IS SLOWLY TRANSFORMING THE UNIVERSITY INTO A HOME WHERE DREAMS ARE TRULY VALUED. While many are still asleep, Domingo “Sonny” Reyes, Jr., is already awake—starting his day with a reflection at 3:30 in the morning. This has been his practice even before his stint as president of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM). He shares his reflections on the university’s website and friends. And while others are about to rise from sleep, he has already completed his routine, including his daily visit to the university’s chapel. The university president’s regular day in school starts at 6:00 in the morning, beginning with greeting students, faculty, and staff around the campus. “I would normally walk around to see students and personnel who are already on campus earlier than me. And then I give those who are already here the pan de sal I bring every morning." MORE THAN A PRESIDENT While school presidents are often perceived as distant and are always behind closed doors in the office, in PLM grounds, it’s not unusual to see Reyes walking around cheerfully greeting everyone he passes. Those younger ones would even reach out for a “mano”—a traditional Filipino gesture of respect where a younger person bows slightly and takes the hand of an elder to gently touch it to their forehead. League Magazine witnessed several occasions of this. He is fondly called “Tatay Sonny” or “Tay Sonny” in PLM, a title he earned that symbolizes how he is to the students and the rest of the people in the school. He would even offer students a ride if he saw them walking along the streets on his way to the university. He would have breakfast with the students and engage in casual conversations. For Reyes, this is an opportunity to connect with the students and gather feedback from them. This kind of approach, he says, would also be helpful for the school's improvement and how they can fully serve the students according to their needs. “People come here [to the office], and I believe I owe them my time. That’s why I am in school; I am here to be interrupted by people because they will not come to me if they do not need anything,” that’s why just like a father, he gives people time, even for a short while. His background in the seminary influences his approachable and nurturing nature. Reyes would have wanted to become a priest when he was young; that's why he entered the seminary. However, he chose a different career path. He believes that God has a different mission for him. Though he never became a priest, he is still performing his priestly role as president in PLM. “I always believe that each one of us has that priestly vocation in different ways, not in the religious connotation that we all know, but in our calling or ministry. We are priests. I believe that, even if I wasn't a priest or an ordained priest, I would still be able to fulfil the mission that God gave me,” Reyes shares. REYES ENVISIONS A VIBRANT AND CARING PLM COMMUNITY FOUNDED ON A CULTURE OF GREETINGS, SMILES, AND MALASAKIT—WHERE POSITIVITY, MUTUAL RESPECT, AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY CREATE A HAPPY AND ORDERLY ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL. A DIFFERENT CALLING Reyes graduated with a degree in psychology and later on became a lawyer. He built a 15-year career in human resources in the corporate world at the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation and at the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company before entering the academe. He spent 23 years at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, assuming various roles such as program chair, human resources director, assistant to the vice chancellor, and ultimately assistant vice chancellor. He never imagined a role in PLM. He first entered the university as a student of a master’s program. He was inclined to decline the offer to become part of the board of regents because he was already enjoying his consultancy work and semi-retired life, which included traveling, especially to parts of Europe that he loved. He initially accepted the role as member of the board of regents, thinking that he would just attend meetings. He was, however, elected in 2023. “I feel I'm not ready to go back to full-time work. So I was actually quite nervous that night. But I felt better when I said, 'Okay, Lord, if you think this is the way for me, if this is what you want me to do, then so be it. I'm accepting it.' I calmed down and said, Okay, I'm accepting the gift,” he recalls. The rest is history. He's the first to arrive at the office. Long before the halls are filled with footsteps and chatter, he’s already at his desk, quietly starting his day. “I’m not even imposing on people to come early,” he shares. “I just request the community to be on time.” Long before PLM, he was already known as “Sonny, the person who is always ahead of his time,” for he always arrives early for events and his appointments. For Reyes, it’s not about being strict—it’s about showing respect. He values respect for the work and time of others, and the commitments they have made. In every meeting or event, he makes it a point to begin promptly, whether the venue is full or not. And yes, he admits, he gets a little irked when schedules are not followed. “I was trained to wait, not to be waited on,” he stresses. SHAPING A CULTURE The very first thing that Reyes did when he started leading PLM was to establish a vibrant community by changing the people’s behavior through a culture of greetings. Every morning on Mondays and Wednesdays, he would stand at the gate of the school and greet the students who came in, saying, “Good morning. How are you?” It is his way of creating a culture of smiles. He also loves to crack jokes even in meetings. “I try to live by example that, despite the stressful and toxic problems that we encounter, we have to smile and laugh once in a while. It’s difficult, but you have to live it,” he stresses. Another is a culture of malasakit (concern). He started this by going around picking up garbage around the university. “Because the simple thinking of trash speaks volumes of the kind of people we are inside the university. I am very conscious of that. I want an orderly environment, a campus that is clean,” he explains. BRIDGING OPPORTUNITIES PLM is a state university; thus, financial sustenance is an enduring challenge. But this is not a hindrance for the institution to improve. Reyes says that one of their strategies is to strengthen the graduate programs, as this generates additional income without sacrificing academic excellence. They are also tapping donors for help aside from government subsidy. Partnerships, especially through international connections, is one of the strategies implemented by PLM under Reyes’ leadership in order not only to expand the institution’s reach but also to accelerate students’ knowledge, experience, and excellence. In 2024, PLM signed memoranda of agreement and memoranda of understanding with various global and local partner institutions such as • Dalhousie University (Canada) • National Cheng Kung University (Taiwan) • Kunshan University (Taiwan) • Universiti Poly-Tech Malaysia • INTI International University (Malaysia) • Centennial College (Canada) • International Cultural Communication Center Malaysia (ICCCM) • University of the Philippines-Open University (UPOU) • SM Supermalls • Healthway • Universidad de Manila (UDM) • University of the Visayas • Department of Education-Manila These institutions have become the university's partners for joint research, collaboration, internships, and scholarships as exchange students. Currently, PLM has seven scholars in Taiwan’s top university—Kunshan University. This student’s exposure outside the country is not just an enhancement of excellence but also makes PLM’s presence in the global field felt to open more opportunities for international networks that would help strengthen the university’s resources. PLM also hosted and participated in global events like the ASEAN Social Business Conference and the E-Learning Material Development Competition. Research also is one area where PLM is strengthening its partnerships, for Reyes believes that it is the driving force to promote the university’s global standing. This is the rationale behind PLM's collaboration with local government units and other academic institutions. “We want to position PLM not only as a center for learning but as a hub for research that truly matters,” he shares. He stresses that research is one of the pillars of any academic institution; that’s why he spearheaded efforts to review the institution's existing research policies when he assumed office, making them meaningful and aligned with its established purpose. He acknowledges that while students and teachers are free to explore relevant topics of their choice, an institution should, however, align its research with its purpose. PLM, being a community-based institution, should focus its research agenda on sustainable development, particularly addressing the urban challenges of Manila. This agenda has now become the roadmap that guides faculty and student researchers. “We want research that can be implemented,” Reyes explains. “The problem with many academic institutions is that there’s a wealth of research that ends up unused. If it is not applicable in the actual world, we must reconsider its purpose.” Reyes also tapped the help of the Unified PLM Alumni Association, Inc. Its alumni are also active in giving support through donations and linking the university with international and local partners. “Even when we don’t invite them, alumni drop by. And without fail, they always bring something—a check, a gift for the university. Regardless of the amount, it’s heartwarming. All of these stems from their heartfelt gratitude for the life PLM helped them build. This truly demonstrates the depth of their character," he states. I DIDN’T DREAM OF BEING PRESIDENT. BUT WHEN I WAS ASKED TO SERVE, I SAID YES—WITH MY HEART. RESILIENCE THAT INSPIRES LEADERSHIP Many of the students at PLM come from the underserved communities of Manila, like Baseco and Tondo, and are determined and hopeful to achieve a better life through education. Scarcity and poverty, however, are daily realities that these students face, and others would walk long distances to the campus to save their fare for other more important expenses like food. “Some walk to school to save on fare; others ask if they can buy just half a hotdog at the canteen. And yet, they still show up, hungry but hopeful, because they understand the value of education,” he shares. Their struggles are Reyes’ motivation in facilitating help from friends abroad to donate their laptops. Since an individual textbook is a luxury for many PLM students, the students took upon themselves the initiative to address the book divide, and with the full support of the Office of the President, launched a book donation program to address the growing "book divide," where students will no longer need to buy brand-new textbooks every semester. "Dito mo nakikita na nagkakaroon ng mukha ang kahirapan (This is where you see poverty take on a face)," says Reyes, reflecting on the day-to day struggles many students face. He tells stories of students selling snacks in recycled containers, used school supplies, or pre-loved uniforms online. What struck Reyes and serves as source of pride is that despite this, these students do not become dependent on other people's help, for they hustle with pride and dignity. “They don’t want dole outs or pity. They want to work with dignity and self-respect, wanting to prove themselves,” he explains. This kind of students' character, attitude, and determination to succeed and make their lives better not only inspire Reyes to work hard for PLM but also fuel his drive to give more than what is expected of him—not just as a university president, but as a servant leader. For him, this isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. “I didn’t dream of being president,” he often says. “But when I was asked to serve, I said yes—with my heart.

< Back "Fulfilling a Mission to Serve" BY FREDERICK N. CASTILLO FROM ATHLETE TO ANTI-GRAFT CRUSADER TO TECH-VOC ADVOCATE TO LAWMAKER AND FISCALIZER, SENATOR JOEL VILLANUEVA HAS HURDLED VARIOUS CHALLENGES THROUGH FAITH IN GOD AND A BURNING PASSION FOR PUBLIC SERVICE. Basketball-loving Filipinos, especially those who followed collegiate basketball in the early to mid-1990s, will remember the powerhouse basketball teams of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP). The Growling Tigers in those years won four consecutive UAAP basketball championships, including a sweep of the tournament in Season 56 (1993). When UST won another championship in Season 57 (1994), one of its players was a certain Emmanuel Joel Jose Villanueva, who would eventually shift his pursuit of a professional basketball career to a more meaningful journey in public service. At present, Filipinos know him as a former congressman, “TESDAMAN,” or simply, Senator Joel Villanueva. SIMILAR NAME, SIMILAR CALLING Although Villanueva once dreamed of playing professionally in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), particularly given his skills and background in basketball and sports in general, he became commonly known owing to his prominent family. The senator, who hails from Bocaue, Bulacan, is the second of four children of Bro. Eddie Villanueva, founder and spiritual director of Jesus Is Lord (JIL) Church Worldwide, and Adoracion “Dory” Jose-Villanueva. Villanueva was educated at UST, where he graduated high school and eventually obtained a Bachelor of Science in Commerce degree, with a major in economics, in 1996. He likewise completed Harvard University’s Special Studies in Business Administration in 1998. He also received honorary doctorate degrees from various state universities, including a Doctor of Humanities from Polytechnic University of the Philippines (2013), a Doctor of Laws from Bulacan State University (2023), and a Doctor of Education from Tarlac Agricultural University (2025). Given his family and educational backgrounds, people were no longer surprised that Villanueva inevitably pursued the advocacies of his parents, specifically his father, which are serving the Lord and country and fighting corruption. CIRCUMSTANCES, CHANGE OF PRIORITIES Villanueva’s road to his current success as a public servant, however, was not planned, as he also had other dreams he wanted to pursue. “My journey into public service was not something I ever envisioned for myself, but I now believe it is my calling. I believe that our Lord God is shaping us through our experiences, especially during the most painful moments of our lives,” the senator admits. “In my youth, I was deeply involved in sports. I was a varsity player and co-captain of the UST basketball team, even earning a spot as the only UST representative in the 1992 Palarong Pambansa. I played in the UAAP for three years and participated as a member of the RP Youth Team in the inaugural SEABA [Southeast Asia Basketball Association] tournament in Johore, Malaysia. My ultimate dream was to play in the PBA, but after a championship season, I faced the harsh reality of being removed from the team.” Villanueva carried the lingering pain of seeming rejection when he studied at Harvard in 1996. However, time away from his passion enabled him not only to further sharpen his academic acumen but also to contemplate and assess how he would move on upon his return to the country. “That experience stung deeply, as it felt like I was no longer valued. During my time in Harvard, far from home and feeling lonely at just 20 years old, I sought guidance from the Lord because I’m still hurt, and I promised myself that when I return to the Philippines, I will build my own PBA team. When I came back, it was like a twist of fate, because I was confronted with the pressing social issues in our country,” Villanueva confesses in the face of an evident change in his priorities. ROAD TO PUBLIC SERVICE After graduating from Harvard in 1998, Villanueva’s initial foray into public service was, surprisingly, not through any elective or appointive position but through mass media, as Managing Director of ZOE TV 11, the broadcast media arm of JIL. This endeavor provided him with extensive opportunities and exposure to “engage with the socio-political landscape of the country,” especially during EDSA DOS in January 2001. Villanueva proudly recalls, “I was among the first 12 individuals to gather in EDSA, where ZOE TV was the first station to broadcast the events of the second EDSA Revolution live. This experience solidified my commitment to public service and inspired me to enter politics through the Citizens’ Battle Against Corruption [CIBAC] party-list group.” While working at ZOE TV, Villanueva likewise immersed himself completely in the youth movement, drawing inspiration from Paul’s message in 1 Timothy 4:12 [Nobody looks down on him because of his youth; rather, he is a model in speech, in life, in love, and in faith.]. “I became the chairman of Kristiyanong Kabataan para sa Bayan (KKB), a national youth organization dedicated to promoting strong Christian values among the youth. I also served as the chairman of KKB’s international affiliate, Christian Youth for the Nations (CYN), which encompasses members from various countries around the world,” Villanueva shares, as he particularly emphasizes the crucial role of young people in taking a stand against graft and corruption. ANTI-GRAFT CRUSADER Villanueva’s crusade against corruption was extensively carried out through the multi-sectoral organization CIBAC, which was founded in 1997 and eventually made its way to the House of Representatives as a party-list group during the 12th Congress. It has remained in Congress since then, making it the longest-serving party-list group. “At the age of 25, I became the Vice President of CIBAC and later stepped up as President. The victory of CIBAC party-list in the 2001 elections was a testament to the hard work and determination, but to tell you frankly, it was a culture shock for me to find myself in the House of Representatives,” Villanueva admits. Heading an organization like CIBAC is one thing; representing it as a party-list congressman and utilizing it to formally bring the fight against corruption to Congress is another. And this was what Villanueva endeavored when he became a member of the House of Representatives and earned the title “Benjamin of the House” (as the youngest member) in 2002 during his first term. “I received invaluable mentorship from seasoned politicians. Instead of feeling intimidated by their experience, I actively sought their guidance, eager to learn from their insights. Many became my mentors, helping me navigate the complexities of legislation and governance. Their support not only deepened my understanding of the political landscape but also empowered me to assert my voice and advocate passionately for the issues I cared about,” he shares. As a three-term congressman serving from 2002 to 2010, Villanueva’s legislative agenda focused on issues closest to his heart, primarily fighting corruption, improving government efficiency, and pushing for freedom of information. In his first term, he was principal author or co-author of 12 laws passed and was even appointed Assistant Majority Floor Leader, enabling him “to further engage in the legislative process.” In his second term, he was the Deputy Minority Leader and championed the passage of Republic Act (RA) No. 9485 or the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007. In Villanueva’s last term, he vigorously lobbied for the passage of the Whistleblower Protection Act and Freedom of Access to Information Act, which aim to strengthen the government’s anti-corruption framework. “I likewise expanded my effort against corruption onto the international stage, becoming Secretary General of the Southeast Asian Parliamentarians Against Corruption. This role enabled me to promote good governance and push for critical reforms,” he adds. For these efforts and his “remarkable contributions to combating corruption and promoting transparency throughout his 23 years of public service," Villanueva was conferred the World Integrity Prize and recognized as a person of sincere anti-corruption integrity by the South Korea-based Anti Corruption Civil Movement General Federation in January 2025. ‘TESDAMAN’ IS THE MAN After Villanueva completed three terms as a party-list congressman, he was appointed by then President Benigno C. Aquino III as Director General of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), serving from 2010 to 2015. From here, his moniker “TESDAMAN ” was born. And consistent with his calling as an anti-corruption crusader, he immediately buckled down to work and addressed questionable transactions of the agency. “My very first agenda was to cleanse the agency of corruption because scholarship funds went to fly-by night schools and ghost scholars… [and] canceled TESDA’s payables, such as the Php 112-million in questionable procurement contracts,” the senator reveals. Villanueva likewise introduced the slogan, “Sa TESDA, may choice ka,” with the objective of empowering the less privileged through the provision of diverse options to improve their skills and, eventually, gain employment. His belief in this idea was so strong that he actually enrolled in a TESDA barista training program and earned a National Certification. “This personal commitment underscores my belief in the importance of continuous learning and skills development. In TESDA, I championed innovative approaches to engage more skilled Filipinos, particularly the youth,” Villanueva emphasizes. “My experiences at TESDA have transformed me into a proactive and visionary leader, committed to equipping our workforce for the future and ensuring that graduates land jobs.” A NEW ARENA: THE SENATE As if the challenges of being a congressman and head of an executive department agency were not enough, Villanueva decided to throw his hat into the Senate ring and won in the 2016 national elections with 18,459,222 votes, earning the second-highest position in the Senate race. He was re-elected in 2022 for a second term. “My two previous posts [party-list congressman and TESDA director general] greatly influenced my legislative agenda in the Senate because the battle against corruption is far from over. In fact, it has evolved into new forms, influenced by the advancement of technology and an increasingly liberal approach to societal issues that’s gradually opening the doors for divorce, same-sex marriage, comprehensive sexuality education, and online gambling,” Villanueva elaborates. After nearly nine years in the Senate, Villanueva’s work has gone beyond promises, creating a legacy for the nation. During the 17th and 18th Congresses, he played a pivotal role in shepherding over 300 laws, many of which have been recognized for his legislative foresight. Notable among these are the Telecommuting Act (RA 11165), the Tulong Trabaho Act (RA 11230), and the Doktor Para sa Bayan Act (RA 11509). These laws exemplify his commitment to addressing the needs of the post-pandemic society. His role in the 19th Congress has expanded significantly with his election as Majority Leader (July 25, 2022 - May 24, 2024), empowering him not only to push for his advocacies but also to shape the legislative agenda of the Senate. Villanueva distinguished himself by crafting transformative pieces of legislation through the passage of more than 100 laws aimed at supporting future generations through robust job creation initiatives. His notable legislative achievements include the Enterprise-Based Education and Training Framework Act (RA 12063) and the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program Act (RA 12124). Believing in the idea that the government should prioritize programs directly addressing unemployment, specifically by creating sustainable jobs and formulating fair wage policies, he pushed for his campaign promise in 2022, the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act (RA 11962). “One of our key legislative efforts is the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act, which aims to create an employment masterplan directing all government agencies to come up with an integrated and coordinated response for the rising informality of work, digital and gig economy, and job-skills mismatch,” the senator elaborates. Recently, Villanueva witnessed the launching of the Trabaho para sa Bayan Plan 2025-2034, mandated by RA 11962. This 10-year comprehensive plan provides a long-term normative framework aimed at boosting employment in the country. Its goal is to reduce the unemployment rate of 3.9 percent and underemployment rate of 13.4 percent to 3 percent and 7-9 percent, respectively, by 2034. The senator is also known for enhancing government services through fiscal reforms. He has empowered agencies like the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Department of Science and Technology by providing mobile command and control vehicles equipped with advanced communication technology. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Labor for nearly seven years (July 2016-June 2022; May 2024-present), he has worked tirelessly to support millions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), especially those facing legal, health, psychosocial, and financial quandaries. During the pandemic, he championed and pushed for the creation of a permanent home for OFWs through the Department of Migrant Workers Law (RA 11641). Thanks to this law, OFWs now receive Php1.2 billion annually from the Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFW na Nangangailangan (AKSYON) Fund and another Php1.26 billion from Assistance to Nationals. As one of the commissioners of the Second Congressional Commission on Education or EDCOM 2, Senator Villanueva integrates his initiatives into a cohesive strategy for skills development and job generation. He championed the Philippine Qualifications Framework Law (RA 10968) and further strengthened this measure with the Lifelong Learning and Development Framework Bill—two measures designed to create a “supermarket of competencies” or stackable qualifications for Filipinos, As EDCOM 2 commissioner, Senator Villanueva serves as co-chairperson of the Standing Committee on TVET and Lifelong Learning. enhancing their employability in a rapidly changing market. CONTINUING CHALLENGES, LOOKING FORWARD Over two decades since Villanueva’s entry into public service, he has encountered numerous challenges in the course of the performance of his duties in various government agencies. “Throughout this journey, I had a profound encounter with the Lord, who comforted me greatly. I felt reassured that I was not alone, and I committed to being a voice for God, reminding myself each day that I was there to represent Him and serve our people,” the senator explains. Despite the thankless nature of his responsibilities, he looks back at his influences that enabled him not only to excel but, more importantly, to devote his life to public service. “So, what influenced me? It’s a combination of personal experiences, divine intervention, and a determination to turn pain into purpose that ultimately led me to enter politics. I am driven by the belief that I can make a meaningful impact in the lives of others, and that is what fuels my commitment to public service.” As Villanueva prepares for the last three years of his second term as a senator, he is currently in a reflective mode regarding all the events that have transpired related to his chosen path. “This is my second and last term as a senator, and I do reflect on my journey as your ‘empleyado sa Senado.’ The losses in my family during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly my Mommy Dory and sister Joni, have led me to contemplate retirement from politics. Over the past nine years, we’ve worked hard to pass more than 400 laws, which I’m proud of, but I don’t see myself growing old in government,” Villanueva admits. He reiterates that pursuing a higher office is a calling and something guided by Divine Providence. However, as the Bulakenyo senator turns 50 this year, he is also looking forward to “fulfilling my dream of becoming a full-time pastor. That’s my ultimate dream, and I’m excited about the possibility of also serving in that capacity in the future.” Indeed, from the glamorous and exciting world of basketball to the challenging but more fulfilling field of public service, Senator Joel Villanueva will be the first to tell everyone that his journey, despite all the pressures, hassles, and problems he constantly encounters, is worth continuing to serve his country, countrymen, and the Lord to the best of his abilities.

< Back TRAILS, TALES, AND THRILLS NEAR THE METRO BY AICA LEE JUST BEYOND METRO MANILA, MONTALBAN—NOW RODRIGUEZ, RIZAL—BLENDS ADVENTURE, HISTORY, AND NATURE IN ONE BREATHTAKING ESCAPE. FROM MISTY MOUNTAIN TRAILS TO THE STORIED WAWA DAM, THIS HIDDEN GEM PROVES THE BEST GETAWAYS ARE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK. Rodriguez, Rizal, has seen an upward trend in tourism thanks to the developments surrounding the Wawa Dam and the undulating terrain that attracts avid hikers from all over the country. To most people from the city, hearing the word “Rizal” entails mountains, hiking, and a long drive from the metro, but you don’t have to endure a long commute just to enjoy what the place formerly known as Montalban has to offer. MONTALBAN HIKING SITES Surrounded by lush mountains and breathtaking landscapes, this town is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. It offers a variety of trekking experiences, from steep mountain climbs to peaceful walks through quiet forests. Mount Pamitinan, Mount Binicayan, and Mount Hapunang Banoi are the town’s top three hiking destinations. With an early start and some stamina, you can conquer all three in a single day! For more seasoned hikers, Mount Parawagan in Barangay San Rafael promises a rewarding challenge. The trail winds through small streams and dense forests, unveiling panoramic views of rolling hills and the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains. WAWA DAM No visit to Montalban is complete without a trek to the iconic Wawa Dam, also known as Montalban Dam. Nestled within the rugged beauty of the Pamitinan Protected Landscape, this historic structure carries tales of both innovation and resilience. Built in 1904 during the American colonial era, the dam officially began operations in 1909 as Manila’s primary water source. For decades, it sustained the growing city, but its significance extends beyond its role in urban development. In 1945, Wawa Dam became a World War II battleground, as American and Japanese forces clashed in what became known as the Battle of Wawa. By 1968, the dam was decommissioned following the construction of Angat Dam, which could better meet Metro Manila’s growing water needs. Today, Wawa Dam stands as a scenic reminder of the past, offering visitors a refreshing escape into nature. Trek to the dam’s mouth, where a suspension bridge provides stunning views of the massive boulders below. For a more immersive experience, hop on a boat or bamboo raft near the entrance and drift along the tranquil waters, soaking in the beauty of this storied landmark. PAMITINAN CAVE & BERNARDO CARPIO’S FOOTPRINTS Crossing the suspension bridge that stretches between two towering mountains of the Montalban Gorge, you’ll find yourself at the entrance of Pamitinan Cave, a hidden limestone cavern nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Madre. From a distance, the cave remains concealed, but a short climb up stone steps will lead you to its storied threshold. Once known as the “Cave of Bernardo Carpio,” this site is steeped in both Philippine folklore and history. According to legend, Bernardo Carpio, a mighty giant, was trapped between the mountains of Montalban and whenever he struggles to break free, the earth trembles. Locals claim that his enormous footprints are imprinted on the boulders below the bridge. Whether truth or myth, the story adds a sense of mystique to the landscape. Beyond folklore, Pamitinan Cave holds a revered place in history. On April 12, 1895, Andres Bonifacio and eight fellow Katipuneros gathered here to declare the Philippines’ f ight for independence from Spanish rule. The cave’s walls still bear the inscriptions “Viva la Independencia Filipina (Long Live Philippine Independence),” a rallying phrase that Bonifacio famously shouted while leading the Cry of Pugad Lawin and throughout the Philippine Revolution. Recognizing its significance, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines declared it a historic site on June 12, 1996. While the cave’s interior is now sealed with iron gates, visitors can still explore its entrance and surroundings, taking in the echoes of both legend and history that linger in the air. AVILON ZOO For travelers with a soft spot for wildlife (hello, future zoologists and animal whisperers!), Avilon Zoo in Barangay San Isidro is the ultimate playground. Spanning a massive 7.5 hectares, this is the country’s largest zoological institution, home to over 3,000 animals across more than 600 species. Translation? You’re in for a full day of furry, feathery, and scaly surprises! Tickets for adult visitors start at Php800 per person, while children under three feet tall enjoy a discounted rate of Php600. Step inside, and the first to greet you aren’t roaring lions or curious monkeys—it’s a kaleidoscope of freshwater fish swimming beneath the vibrant reception area, which sits atop a lake. Part of the welcoming committee is the arapaima (aka the pirarucu), the largest freshwater fish in the Philippines. A maze of aquariums nearby houses everything from piranhas and guppies to exotic Asian arowanas, setting the stage for the adventure ahead. With 75 stations to explore, comfy shoes (and maybe a snack or two) are a must. The journey kicks off with small mammals, marsupials, and a parade of birds. As you venture deeper, you’ll meet herbivores, majestic birds of prey, and towering ostriches that might just challenge you to a staring contest. If you’re into reptiles, you’ll love the reptile stations, where crocodiles from around the world (including the elusive Philippine crocodile) lurk. Turtles, lizards, and snakes also make an appearance, and if you’re patient, you might even catch a live snake feeding. As you continue, you’ll arrive at the large mammal stations, where you can meet B’hari, a Rothschild’s giraffe and one of the zoo’s most beloved residents. You can even feed him—along with the hippo and other large herbivores—for Php100 per bucket of fruits and vegetables. Further along, you’ll find deer, monkeys, a lone orangutan named Joey, and a section dedicated to bears. But here’s a pro tip: look up! A Bengal white tiger might just be perched above you, watching your every move. (No pressure.) As you wind through the apex predator stations, you’ll come face to face with Bengal tigers, leopards, jaguars, African lions, and more before the final stretch, where eagles, owls, and falcons signal the end of your journey. With so much to see, Avilon Zoo isn’t just a visit—it’s an unforgettable wildlife experience. RENATO’S GARDEN RESTAURANT When it’s time to recharge, Renato’s Garden Restaurant is the perfect hideaway for a hearty meal surrounded by lush greenery. Tucked just near the city center, this charming spot offers a bright and airy dining space enclosed by glass windows, letting in plenty of natural light. If you prefer an even closer connection to nature, their serene al fresco area—complete with a small koi pond—sets the stage for a peaceful meal. Signature dishes like the crispy belly kare-kare, volcano beef ribs, lasagna, and kani salad are definite crowd pleasers, but there’s plenty more to indulge in. Their menu also features an array of sandwiches, vegetarian options, and comforting pasta dishes to keep you fueled for the day. And let’s not forget the refreshing fruit shakes—mango, pineapple, strawberry, watermelon, banana, and pineapple cucumber—all perfect for cooling down. Need a little pick-me-up? Their coffee and tea selection pairs beautifully with light bites like crispy fries, calamari, a classic club sandwich, or their flavorful eggplant shrimp tapas. Whether you’re here for a full meal or a leisurely afternoon snack, Renato’s Garden Restaurant makes slowing down taste even better. MONTALBAN SPORTS COMPLEX If you’re visiting Montalban for one of its grand celebrations, chances are you’ll find yourself at the heart of the action—the Montalban Sports Complex. This sprawling venue isn’t just a sports hub; it’s the town’s go-to stage for festivals, concerts, and major municipal events. At its core, a massive multipurpose grass field plays host to everything from high-energy sports matches to vibrant cultural festivities. On any given day, you might spot schoolchildren rehearsing dance routines, athletes training on the track, or a full-scale event taking shape. Whether it’s a roaring crowd at a championship game or the buzz of a town-wide f iesta, the complex is where Montalban comes alive.