Opening of National Heritage Month (Angono, Rizal)

 

Opening of National Heritage Month (photo: George Buid)

Last Sunday, May 10, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) through the Subcommission on Cultural Heritage and the National Committee on Art Galleries, kicked off the celebration of National Heritage Month at the 7-hectare Loyola Retreat House - Spirituality and Art Center in Angono, Rizal, the “Art Capital of the Philippines.” This year's theme is “Roots and Horizons: Our Shared Heritage, Our Collective Future." 

Torch lighting ceremony (photo: George Buid)

The festivities opened with a torch-lighting ceremony at the monumental Kaagapay Monument, a massive representation of the ancient Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs, created in 2025 by renown Mindanawon artist Kublai Millan.  This was followed by a parade, showcasing Angono’s iconic 10 to 12-foot high papier-mache puppets (higantes), a Sayaw sa Patio at the Chapel of the Risen Lord and the Petros Group Art Exhibit (which showcases artwork from the Petros Group and local art galleries) opening at the Pedro Calungsod Hall.  The program proper started at Holy Trinity Garden. 

Angono street dancers (photo: George Buid)

After a message from Philpost Postmaster-General Maximo C. Sta. Maria III, the commemorative stamps of National Heritage Month were unveiled. Keynote speaker was NCCA Chairman and Executive Director Eric B. Zerrudo, Phd. He said that “it is vital to celebrate National Heritage Month as it highlights the resilience deeply embedded in Filipino heritage and gives people a sense of hope.”

 

Unveiling of commemorative stamps (photo: George Buid)

Welcome remarks were delivered by Angono Mayor Gerardo V. Calderon, opening remarks by Mr. Ivan Anthony S. Henares (Commissioner, Subcommission on Cultural Heritage) and special messages were given by Rizal Governor Nina Ricci A. Ynares, Fr. Rene Pio Javellana, SJ (Vice-President, Loyola Retreat House - Spirituality and Art Center Angono) and Most Rev. Ruperto C. Santos, DD, Bishop of Antipolo (delivered by Fr. Peter Ymari C. Balatbat, Executive Director, Diocesan Commission for Cultural Heritage of the Church, Diocese of Antipolo). A message, from Pres. Ferdinand “Bongbong" R. Marcos, was delivered by former NCCA chairman and Angono native Victorino “Ino” Mapa Manalo.

 

Opening of Petros Art Group Exhibit (photo: George Buid)

Entertainment was provided by the choral singing of the Angono Chorale Ensemble and a band performance by Angono National Symphonic Band.  Both also rendered “Mahal Kong Bayan,” a song, by the late Lucio San Pedro (Angono native and National Artist for Music, 1991), that celebrates the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Philippines.

 

Kenote speaker Eric B. Zerrudo of NCCA (photo: George Buid)

A highlight of the evening was the Sayaw ng Bati. Also called Sayaw ng Pagbabati (Dance of Greeting), it is a traditional Philippine Easter Sunday dance to commemorate the Resurrection of Christ.  It is usually led by two main dancers – the tenyenta (lieutenant, Ms. Daphne F. Pundamiera) and a kapitana (captain, Ms. Marie Immacon “Icon” C. Reyes).  These two ladies, wearing grand Filipiniana gowns with full skirts, bent their torsos to the side as they spun and turned to the waltzing tune played by the aforementioned band.

 

Angono Chorale Ensemble and Angono National Symphonic Band (photo: George Buid)

After this entertainment, the acknowledgment and awarding of certificates was done by Ms. Sabina Joy V. Cruz (Executive Council Member, National Committee on Art Galleries) while the closing remarks were delivered by Ms. Maria Teresa B. Rayos del Sol (Vice-Head, Subcommission on Cultural Heritage).  The proceedings culminated with dinner at the LRH Main Dining Hall. 

Sayaw ng Bati (photo: George Buid)

National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA): NCCA Bldg., 633 General Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, 1002. Tel: (632) 8527-2192. E-mail: info@ncca.gov.ph. Website: www.ncca.gov.ph. 

Loyola Retreat House - Spirituality and Art Center Angono: Carnation St., Nieves Hills, Brgy. San Isidro, Angono, Rizal. Tel: +63 8651-0191.  Mobile number: (0962) 472-2175. E-mail: loyolaretreathouseinc@gmail.com.

Closing and Turnover Ceremony of Filipino Food Month (Metropolitan Theater, City of Manila)

 

Conclusion and turnover ceremony of Filipino Food Month 2026 

Last May 6, Wednesday, the celebration of Filipino Food Month 2026, a month-long celebration of Filipino food and culinary heritage, officially concluded at the Metropolitan Theater Ballroom, the same venue where it was launched last April 6 with the theme, "Connected by Taste," focused on the appreciation, preservation, and innovation of Filipino food traditions.

 

Ms. Marichu G. Tellano (NCCA Deputy Executive Director for Administration and Support Services)

Dr. Paulo Benito S. Tugbang (DOT Office for Product Development Director)

The late afternoon affair, covered by online and print media, was attended by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Department of Tourism (DOT, the Department of Agriculture (DA), and the Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement (PCHM), the four lead agencies of Filipino Food Month 2026.  During the closing ceremony, these four agencies looked back on the various projects and events held throughout the month-long celebration.

 

Mr. Jose Antonio Miguel “Jam” Melchor (PCHM Founder and President)

Atty. Genevieve E. Valicaria-Guevarra (DA Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness, Marketing, and Consumer Affairs)

Hosting responsibilities for Filipino Food Month usually rotate annually among the four partner agencies and a highlight of the ceremony was the symbolic turnover of the hosting responsibilities, from the NCCA, to the DA, which will lead the celebration for 2027, through the presentation of a tingkep, a traditional handwoven lidded basket crafted by the Pala’wan Indigenous Peoples of Southern Palawan. The tingkep symbolizes the abundance, richness, and diversity of Philippine gastronomy.

 

Presentation of tingkop symbolizing the abundance, richness, and diversity of Philippine gastronomy

Representatives from the four lead agencies of Filipino Food Month 2026

During the event, partners were also recognized. Present were Ms. Marichu G. Tellano, NCCA Deputy Executive Director for Administration and Support Services; Dr. Paulo Benito S. Tugbang, DOT Office for Product Development Director, Mr. Jose Antonio Miguel “Jam” Melchor, PCHM Founder and President; and Atty. Genevieve E. Valicaria-Guevarra, DA Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness, Marketing, and Consumer Affairs, who each delivered messages of support and solidarity for the continued promotion of Filipino culinary heritage.

 

Malabon National High School's Tanghalang Bagong Sibol Theatre and Dance Co.

The press conference and ceremony also featured  a cultural performance of Malabon National High School's  Tanghalang Bagong Sibol  Theater and Dance Co. (formed in 1997, it bagged awards during the 6th China-ASEAN Theatre Week in 2018) and a live performance of the Filipino Food Month theme song by Filipino folk musician, singer and song writer Ms. Junelle "Bayang" Otero-Barrios. The event culminated in an ASEAN-inspired celebratory merienda cena, reflecting the FFM 2026 theme and the Philippines' ASEAN chairship for the year.

 

Cocohogo at Destileria Limtuaco booth

Sampling champorado at the Kusina ni Mama Sita booth

Guests also got to try out Heirloom Rice + Cacao Champorado (roasted pure cacao blended with glutinous rice resulting in an intensely chocolate-flavored rice porridge) and Beef Pares from the Kusina ni Mama Sita booth as well as Cocohogo is a premium Philippine coconut cream liqueur launched by Destileria Limtuaco in August 2025. It blends real coconut cream with their signature pot-distilled rum, creating a velvety, tropical liqueur aimed at providing a smooth, "summer in a bottle" experience.

'The Poet of Concrete: The Architecture of National Artist Leandro Locsin" Exhibit (University of Sto. Tomas, Manila)

 

"The Poet of Concrete: The Architecture of National Artist Leandro Locsin"

First Part of NCCA Heritage Tour

Last April 30, members of media were invited to a guided tour, led by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the University of Santo Tomas (UST) College of Architecture, of 'The Poet of Concrete: The Architecture of National Artist Leandro Locsin" Exhibit (which opened last April 27) which spotlights his exemplary life and stellar works of the late National Artist for Architecture (1990), an alumnus of the UST College of Architecture. The exhibit, at the UST Beato Angelico Gallery, will run until May 22.

 

Beato Angelico Gallery

Curated by Arch. Gerry Torres, Arch. Caryn Paredes-Santillan and Arch. Noel Cruz, “The Poet of Concrete” Exhibit, in collaboration with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde Center for Campus Art, displays blueprints, photographs, and memorabilia that celebrates the life of the renowned Thomasian Architect. It aims to deepen appreciation for local design by highlighting Locsin’s mastery of scale and space and invites the viewers to muse upon his language, particularly his use of concrete.

 

Media tour of the exhibit

The title “Poet of Concrete” reflects Locsin’s ability to turn rough, heavy concrete into light, floating (conjuring the illusion of weightlessness), and artistic structures, which redefined the country’s skyline with its stark but simplistic silhouettes. His buildings often utilized extensive chipping and bush-hammering techniques to manipulate concrete.   Locsin melded vernacular traditions with the modern architecture, defining the contemporary Filipino architecture.

 

Scaled model of Casa de Nipa and the Locsin and PLDT Buildings

In her speech, Ms. Caryn Paredes-Santillan, International Relations coordinator at UST’s College of Architecture, said “That contributions of second-year architecture students (who created scale models inspired by Locsin’s design principles featured in the exhibit) was an attempt to deepen their appreciation of local design.”

 

Church of the Holy Sacrifice

Locsin is known for his Brutalist and floating architecture featuring "floating" volumes, simple forms, and a fusion of Oriental and Occidental styles.  He has produced, throughout his career, 244 buildings, 108 residences, 53 public and private establishments, 48 commercial structures, 40 offices, 21 churches and chapels, 13 hotels and resorts, six housing projects, and an airport terminal.

 

Ayala Museum and Philippine Osaka Pavilion Expo '70

Among his works that sprung from his blueprints (ranging from commercial to residential spaces), are the Brutalist edifices such as the Cultural Center of the Philippines (1969), Philippine International Convention Center (1976), Folks Arts Theater (now Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, 1974), Church of the Holy Sacrifice (University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1955), National Arts Center (now Tanghalang Maria Makiling, Los Banos, Laguna, 1976), Makati Stock Exchange Building (1971), and Villa Locsin (1962), to name some.

 

Scaled model of CCP Main Theater

The retrospective exhibit features Brutalist scale models and photos of buildings such as the CCP Main Theater; the eye-catching and rather intriguing Philippine Pavilion design for the 1970 World Expo in Osaka, Japan (Its sweeping roof, which spiked through the skies, made the building an attraction in itself); and the Saint Andrew the Apostle Church in Bel-Air Village, City of Makati, which was based on the martyr’s crucifixion on an X-shaped cross. There’s also a separate section for a coveted collection of medals for all of his past awards, all neatly lined up.

 

Villa Locsin and Zobel Residence

Throughout the decades, he also designed the residences of the who’s who of the country, such as the Zobel de Ayalas, Lacsons, Aranetas, Cojuangcos, Montinolas, Consunjis, Jalandonis, Magsaysays, Neris, Siys, Cosetengs, Yaps, Foreses and Chongbians, to name a few.

Locsin’s last projects included the Church of the Monastery of the Transfiguration in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. The Aquino Center, in Hacienda Luisita, Tarlac City, which remained unbuilt, was a reminder he never stopped until his last dying breath (he died in 1994).

 

The Last Locsin

The “Lost Locsins” features the blueprints and images of structures he once designed and built but have since been torn down. These include the HotelIntercontinental Manila, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, the former Ayala Museum, and the Philippine Center for International Trades and Exhibition (familiar to those from the travel and tourism and trade industry). In addition, a number are also on the brink of demolition and have been identified to be endangered such as The Folk Arts Theater, the PLDT Building, and the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila.

National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA): NCCA Bldg., 633 General Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, 1002. Tel: (632) 8527-2192. E-mail: info@ncca.gov.ph. Website: www.ncca.gov.ph.

Travel Madness Expo (TME) 2026 Joins Forces with Metrobank

 

Travel Madness Expo 2026

The Travel Madness Expo (TME) 2026, to be held on July 10 to 12, 2026, Halls 1 – 4 SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, Metro Manila. is officially joining forces with Metrobank to present the most anticipated tourism event of the year. This powerhouse partnership is set to deliver ”funtastic” rates, exclusive travel perks, and a seamless booking experience unavailable anywhere else.

Whether you are dreaming of autumn in Japan, a scenic escape to the mountains of Georgia, or a beach getaway within the Philippines, this year’s expo is designed to make global travel more accessible than ever.

In partnership with Metrobank, travelers can take advantage of flexible payment schemes, allowing you to secure your dream vacation today and manage your budget over time.

Beyond flights and hotels, expect curated “toys” packages (leisure and hobby-themed travel), affordable travel insurance, and exclusive bank-led discounts for Metrobank cardholders.

Organizers and exhibitors have committed to offering “event-only” deals—deep discounts not available through online travel agencies or standard retail channels.

The 2026 edition of the Travel Madness Expo proudly hosts an impressive lineup of official tourism boards. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to receive expert, first-hand travel advice and cultural insights from representatives of the different tourism organizations around the world namely:

• Czech Tourism
• Georgia Tourism
• Guam Visitors Bureau
• Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB)
• Japan National Tourism Office (JNTO)
• Tourism Malaysia
• Niugini Tourism Office
• Korea Tourism Organization (KTO)
• Taiwan Tourism Administration

The organizers are pulling out all the stops to ensure a spectacular event. Beyond exclusive bookings, attendees can enjoy cultural presentations, interactive booths, and exciting raffle prizes.

For inquiries; contact TME 2026 at mobile numbers (0917) 585-2213 and (0917) 307-8613 or email them at secretariat@travelmadnessph.com.  You may also visit www.travelmadnessph.com or www.facebook .com/TravelMadnessPH.

Loc&Stor 24/7 to Open New Branch in Newport City

 

Loc&Stor's new branch in Newport City

Loc&Stor 24/7, the Philippines’ leading self‑storage provider, is set to unveil its newest, world-class facility in Newport City, directly opposite NAIA Terminal 3. By offering a secure, convenient and professional service just steps away from the bustling airport and upscale residential towers, the strategic location promises to transform how commuters, travelers, and the growing community of condominium dwellers manage their belongings. 

The Newport City site has been designed with the needs of modern urban life in mind. When it opens, travelers can drop off luggage at a starting price of ₱199 up to ₱300 per luggage per day, providing a practical solution for those who may need temporary luggage storage for a variety of reasons, while they attend to personal matters or take short trips. Meanwhile, residents of the surrounding high‑rise condominiums—who often grapple with limited closet space and the constant juggling of seasonal items—will find an immediate answer to their storage woes. A dedicated push‑cart rental service, priced at ₱250 for up to four hours, is especially helpful for high-rise residents moving bulky or multiple items from their units, minimizing the strain of repeated trips. 

Loc&Stor's storage facilities

Security remains the cornerstone of every Loc&Stor 24/7 location. The Newport City facility boasts 14 levels of security, including professional security personnel available around the clock, and individualized access codes for each storage unit. Built‑in unit alarms and optional multiple access codes add an extra layer of peace of mind. In addition, the premises are equipped with a backup generator, a comprehensive sprinkler system, fire extinguishers, hoses, and a smoke‑detection network that is directly linked to a private security firm. 

To celebrate the upcoming launch, Loc&Stor 24/7 is inviting nearby residents to reserve a storage unit today and enjoy up to two months free. Early reservations can be made through the dedicated link. The promotion underscores the company’s belief that every homeowner, renter, and traveler deserves a clutter‑free lifestyle without compromising security. 

Loc&Stor 24/7 in Newport City is more than just adding another location to the brand’s portfolio. It’s about giving the community a trusted partner for managing the items they value most—whether it’s a suitcase waiting for a flight or seasonal gear stored away for the year. Its new location brings Loc&Stor 24/7’s proven blend of safety, convenience, and professional service to the heart of the city’s most dynamic neighborhood. 

Beyond its rigorous safety standards, the facility reflects Loc&Stor 24/7’s commitment to convenience. Each unit is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and the property provides dedicated parking for vehicles. The design incorporates spacious hallways, ensuring a seamless self‑service experience that mirrors the professionalism found at the company’s other facilities located at:

• 54 E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave. (C5), Brgy. Bagong Ilog, Pasig City, Metro Manila. Tel: (02) 8570-2561 and (02) 902-1898.  Mobile numbers: (0916) 567-3004 (Globe) and (0998) 968-9746 (Smart).
• 7192A Urban Ave., Brgy. Pio Del Pilar, Makati City, Metro Manila. Tel: (02) 8810-9556 and (02) 7902-1898. Mobile numbers: (0917) 706-9362 (Globe) and (0919) 912-6800 (Smart).
• 155 JP Rizal, Space Solutions Bldg., Brgy. Tejeros, Makati City, Metro Manila. Tel: (02) 7902-1898. Mobile numbers: (0917) 709-5390 (Globe) and (0949) 992-5657 (Smart).
• 1238 Epifanio de los Santos Ave., Brgy, Apolonio Samson, Balintawak, Quezon City, Metro Manila. Tel: (02) 8353-6936. Mobile numbers: (0917) 703-4159 (Globe) and (0908) 819-1952 (Smart).
• RLX Warehouse, Meralco Road, Sucat, Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila. Tel: (02) 7902-1898. Mobile numbers: (0917) 711-8854 (Globe) and (0998) 537-6224 (Smart).

For more information, or to secure a unit under the two‑month‑free promotion, those interested may contact landline (02) 7902‑1898, mobile number (0917) 711-8854 or (0998) 537-6224, or by emailing talk2us@locnstor247.com.

Hotel and Inn Review: Candeo Hotels Osaka Shinsaibashi (Osaka, Japan)

 Date of Stay: March 26 – April 1, 2026

 

RATING (Scale of 1 to 10)

Location: ********

Rooms: *******

Condition and Cleanliness: *********

Staff Performance: *********

Room Comfort: ********

Food and Beverage: ********

Other Amenities: ********

Value for Money: *******

Candeo Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi

Our home for our 8-day/7-night stay in vibrant Osaka was to be the 4-star hotel‧ Candeo Hotels Osaka Shinsaibashi, set in a modern, 15-storey high-rise building.  Its 180 rooms offer 4-star comfort with air-conditioning, free WiFi, a mini ref, coffee and tea-making facility and streaming services. The rooms here are Minimalist, with smooth wood paneling, crisp white linens, and low sofas built in beside windows overlooking the city.  Ice machines are located on every floor. We stayed in a 24 sq. m.  (258 sq. ft.) non-smoking Twin Room with Sofa Bed (Room 1406} with 2 single beds and a sofa bed.

 

Room 1406 (Twin Room with Sofa Bed)

Other room choices, all non-smoking, are the 19 sq. m. (204 sq. ft.) King Room (with 1 King Bed, fits 2 people), 24 sq. m. (258 sq. ft.) Twin Room (with 2 single beds, fits 2 people), the 34 sq. m. (365 sq. ft.) Triple Room (with 3 single beds, fits 6 people but not more than 3 adults), 34 sq. m. (365 sq. ft.) Triple Room - Disability Access (with 3 single beds,  fits 6 people but not more than 3 adults), 38 sq. m. (409 sq. ft.) Deluxe Triple Room (with 3 single beds, fits 6 people but not more than 3 adults), and the 34 sq. m. (365 sq. ft.) Triple Room with Sofa Bed (with 3 single beds, fits 8 people but not more than 5 adults).

 

Mitsutera Temple

The hotel stands out as the building also houses the ancient Mitsutera Temple that rises up in the hotel’s glass atrium like a special exhibit at a museum. Here, a monk leads daily services every morning, just one of several traditional features at this otherwise contemporary hotel. Drawing classes are offered every evening. 

Check out “Mitsutera Temple”

 

24-hour Front Desk

Hotel lobby and coffee shop

Its 24-hour Front Desk, lobby and coffee shop are both located on the fourth floor. The buffet line at the coffee shop was small but fine for quick breakfast which was appetizing international fare for all tastes.  Miso soup and tofu plus bread, scrambled eggs, sausages, steamed rice, salad, fruits, cereals, coffee (Latte, Americano, Cappucino, etc.), cocoa, tea and juices (apple, orange, etc.) are served. 

Buffet spread

Buffet spread

The nice and friendly staff here were accommodating and can speak very good English. The housekeeping was great. The rooftop has Japanese Spa with an open-air bath, plus adjacent indoor baths and saunas divided for men and women. Guests can unwind in the sauna or hot tub but you need to be naked as swimwear is not allowed.

 

Sink

Our room, though small, was comfortable and functional. However, there is absolutely no storage space for anything in the bedroom. No closets, no cupboard, no shelf, no sideboard, no drawers. You have to leave everything in the suitcases or hang on the 5 hangers. We used the window sill as a shelf.  The flat screen TV has no international TV channels or English programs.

 

Shower and bathtub

The toilet, shower and sink are separate from each other. The sink (of course without a shelf) is in the middle of the hallway which was very inconvenient and uncomfortable. While inside the toilet, which is sensor/motion activated, the lights automatically turn on when you enter but goes out after a few seconds of no movement.

 

The Smart toilet

The hotel is perfectly located right in the heart of Osaka, in the middle of Shinsaibashi and Namba. Louis Vuitton is just a block away. There's a 7/11 next door. Restaurants, bars, cafes and shopping are all within a short walk. Even if it's in the shopping district, the entrance is located at Mido-suji, the main street for all the luxury brands but away from all the noise and crowd.

 

The author (right) with son Jandy and wife Grace

It is located 200 m. (a 3-min. walk) from the Glico Man Sign; 450 m. from Subway Shinsaibashi; 500 m. from Shinsaibashi Train Station, Osaka Namba Subway and Ōsaka Namba Train Station; 950 m. from the Shimoyamatobashi Monument and Motomachinaka Park; 1.3 kms. from the Kokoni Sunaba Ariki Monument; 1.4 kms. from Naniwa Park; 1.5 kms. from Nipponbashi Park; 1.5 kms. from Stage Ku; 1.7 kms. from Kamomecho Park; 1.8 kms. from Shiokusa Park; 2.2 kms from the OSTEC Exhibition Hall; 19 kms. from Itami Airport; 41 kms. from Kobe Airport and 44 kms. from Kansai International Airport.

 

View from room

View from room

Candeo Hotels Osaka Shinsaibashi: 2 Chome-7-12 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0085, Japan.  Tel: +81 6-6926-8633.  Website:  www.candeohotels.com.