GenSan News Online Mag

Bariles could not even remember the last time he visited Olaer Springs Resort.

Located in a secluded portion of Barangay Apopong‘s steepsided valley formed by the Silway River, and nestled on its  right banks, Olaer’s “cold” Springs Resort was the choice weekend destination for most families in General Santos City during the 70s and early 80s.

“The cold Olaer Springs Resort invites you to jump right in. Photo shot from the back portion of the resort.”

Earlier before the Martial Law era, the citizens of downtown Dadiangas would just simply hie off to the old Lion’s Beach (now the Queen Tuna Park) or the Pearly Shells Beach at Barangay Bula for their weekend picnics.  These black-sand beaches were unspoilt and clean then but most of all, they were FREE.

When the public market was transferred there however,  after a massive fire razed it to the ground, these beaches along Sarangani Bay started losing their luster. The beaches of Alabel and Barangay Tambler back then were considered too far and the roads were still unpaved.

The only choices left were the cold springs resorts farther inland, and there were quite a few good ones in the city:  Mateo Springs (now Meljois), Lumanta Springs (now closed), Dacera Springs (now El Pueblo) and the most popular, Olaer Springs.

“The shallow pools for kids at Olaer Springs Resort, located farther inside the compound.”

Thus, for most of the Martial Law babies, Olaer Springs was where they experienced their initiation rites for PMT, CAT, WATC, ROTC; their YCAP and YDT tree-planting projects and their Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts campings.  And with the generals’ penchant for making any excuse to party, Olaer was where thousands of festive birthday, baptismal, victory and holiday parties were held.

Additionally, for Bariles and his generation, this was also where most of them first learned how to dog paddle, jump head first and eventually swim the free-style, the backstroke and the butterfly.  And who could ever forget playing the pool tag games, the “longest time underwater” game, the swimming contest, the underwater obstacle course, the shark game, water polo using plastic beach balls, and so many more.

All these were not lost on Bariles when he was invited by fellow blogger Jinky Olaer-Borela for an early morning swim during the Izra Wal Miraj holiday two weeks back.  And yes, he was not disappointed.

As soon as he stepped on Olaer Springs Resort‘s territory for the first time after only God knows how long, all he got was goose pimples with the ensuing flood of memories that followed.

Let these following pictures by Bariles explain what he means….

“Who could forget The Rock where as kids, climbing on top of it meant jostling with other eager kids wanting to do the same.  It was our own version of Mt. Everest!”

“In the background is Olaer Springs Resort’s THE SOURCE where all its cool water comes from. This was sacred ground for the young kids before.  That’s Bariles in the foreground.”

“The Main Pool and deep portion of the kilometric Olaer Springs Resort. Photo was shot from near the entrance of the resort.”

“Do you remember THE BRIDGE separating the deep and shallow portions of the Main Pool? Thousands must have waded or swam under THE BRIDGE ala The Bridge of Sighs in Venice.”

“This used to be our version of THE NIAGARA FALLS as kids, the water massaging our heads, necks and backs. It’s where all the water from Olaer Springs Resort exit.”

“This was and still is the Olaer Springs Resort way of chilling beer. Things have not really changed since our youth.”

The best time to visit Olaer Springs Resort is from 6am to 10am when the throngs of masses have not yet descended upon its still cold, crystal clear waters. It is also time to savor the relaxing silence because once the competing voices emanating from the karaoke machines scattered all throughout the resort start, then good luck. It’s one big FIESTA at the Olaer Springs Resort once again.   Welcome to the biggest weekend party in town!

How about you? What do you remember about Olaer Springs Resort?

For the past three years, one crowd-drawer during the annual GenSan Tuna Festival has been the Fishdance Competition.  This search for the best hip-hop dance group in Southern Mindanao has attracted step-uppers from all over and last year, from as far as Surigao and Cagayan de Oro cities.

For this year, in celebration of  the Tuna Capital’s 41st Charter Anniversary, this competition promises more dazzling moves and attractive prizes with a better and bigger “FISHDANCE RELOADED“.

Fishdance Reloaded poster featuring the Intensity Dance Crew

Here are the Mechanics for Fishdance Reloaded:

FISH DANCE RELOADED

CONTEST MECHANICS

1. Open to dance groups with 8 – 12 members, aged 15 years old and above of any gender combination.
2. Performance time minimum of three (3) minutes. Maximum time is five (5) minutes.
3. Performance time that exceeds the maximum allowable of greater than the maximum minutes required will result in a one point deduction per minute from each judge’s score.
4. Completely fill up the application form, which you can get from the GSC Chamber of Commerce office or from Asia United Bank – Gensan Branch or from Gaisano Mall of Gensan or group can get the application form thru email (intensity_boyz2005@yahoo.com) from July 14 to August 15, 2009.
5. The registration fee per participating group is ONE THOUSAND PESOS (PhP1,000.00).
6. Submit the application form with a group photo and registration fee on or before August 20, 2009 to above address or during the Screening and Elimination Shows stated below:

August 21 -           Gaisano Mall of Gensan         Gensan Area Eliminations

August 31 -           Gaisano Mall of Gensan         Outside Gensan Area Eliminations

1. Only 20 groups will move to the FISHDANCE’09 RELOADED FINALS on September 1, 2009 at Gensan’s Oval Covered Court.
2. Winners will be judged according to the following criteria:

• CHOREOGRAPHY 30%

-creativity

-staging, spacing, formation and level changes

-style

• MASTERY AND TIMING 20%

-Synchronization

-execution

-difficulty if execution of authentic Hip hop dance style

-controlled mobility and stabilization

• ORIGINALITY 30%

-introduction of unique dance steps

• VARIETY OF HIP HOP DANCE STYLE 10%

-locking                       -popping

-bboying/bgirling         -wacking/punking

-vogueing                     -house dance

-HipHop dance                     -stomping

-krumping

• SHOWMANSHIP 10%

-street presence/attire  -confidence

-entertainment value   -projection

-crowd appeal             -intensity

• Prizes for the winning groups include:

Gold Prize 50,000.00 plus Trophy and medal for each member

Silver Prize 30,000.00 plus Trophy and medal for each member

Bronze Prize 20,000.00 plus Trophy and medal for each member

Best in B-boy Showdown 3,000.00

Consolation Prize 5,000.00 (each for the seven non-winning groups)

(All members will get a medal each)

Have you ever owned a pair of Havaianas?  If not, then do you want to purchase your own pair and be one of the many fashionista-generals who swear by its durability and comfort?

If so, then getting your very own pair of  what is considered as the world’s best rubber flip-flops manufactured in Brazil does not come as timely as this weekend.  And why is that?

Check out the poster below.

Havainas Pins and Pairs Poster

Yes, dear readers and subscribes!  You read it right.

This weekend, from July 31 to August 2, 2009, Havaianas brings you PINS and PAIRS – the option to personalize your flip flops!  After you purchase your pair from any of the Authorized Retailers in General Santos City, simply just take it to the Havaianas PINS and PAIRS Pinning Station at the Gaisano Mall of GenSan.

The Gaisano GenSan Pinning Station will have trained Havaianas Pinning staff who will attach the pins of choice to your pairs using only the finest pinning technology from Brazil.  You will get to choose from a variety of Lifestyle pins, letter pins from A to Z or swarovski crystals(!)

Feel free to mix and match or just keep it simple.  However way you want it – you get a ONE of A KIND pair made especially for YOU!

Feel free to mix and match or just keep it simple. However way you want it – you get a ONE of A KIND pair made especially for YOU!

AND to add more fun, Havaianas have put up a PINS and PAIRS rack in all Authorized Retailers since July 3, 2009.  For every 1 pair purchase from the rack – you get 1 FREE PIN of your choice! (to be claimed at the pinning station)

THEN to further make it even more exciting, Havaianas puts at PINS and PAIRS showcase at the Pinning Stations.  For every 1 pair purchase from the Pinning Station Showcase, you get 2 FREE PINS!

Promo ends on AUGUST 2, 2009. ONLY Pairs purchased within the promo period will be pinned.  Receipt must be presented upon purchase or claiming of pins.

By the way, extra pins will be sold for JUST P50!!

Don’t miss out on this one time opportunity to personalize your HAVAIANAS with these special limited edition pins.

Only here.  Only now. And Only from HAVAIANAS.

Taray no?

Now, let me leave you with photos of some people who are Havaianas users, with pins on them.

Retailer Kristine Gaisano wearing Slim Fit Green Havaianas with Swarovski Crystals

Registered Nurse Ken Ang wearing Havaianas Blue Surf with red skateboard pin

For the 2009 Tuna Festival in September, another anchor event, the  Bodyfest Modelling Competition has recently released its guidelines.

The Bodyfest is one of the Tunafest’s crowd drawers and for the past three years that it was staged inside the Gaisano Mall of GenSan, it has moved on from sharing the limelight with another event by having them staged back to back, the Fishdance Competition to having its own separate schedule. for its Finals on September 3, 2009.

Check out the post on last year’s Finals at the Gaisano Atrium by CLICKING HERE

“The Bodyfest 2009 Poster featuring past winners Greggie dela Pena, Naiza Balindo, Jeffthie John Carino, Ronald Colon”

QUALIFICATIONS OF CONTESTANTS:

• Must be a resident of General Santos City for at least ONE YEAR
• Must be Single, Between 18 and 25 years of age (during reigning period)
• Female: At least five feet and four inches (5’4”) in height
• Male: At least five feet and seven inches (5’ 7”) in height
• Completed at least secondary schooling (High School graduate) with acceptable intelligence
• Must be pleasant looking with healthy, smooth and blemish-free skin (Body should be tattoo-free)
• Must have good figure which must be proportionate to height
• Must be conversant in both English and Tagalog and has pleasing personality
• Must have good moral character
• Must not be a current title holder of any pageant

REQUIREMENTS NEEDED FOR SCREENING APPLICANTS

• Filled-up Application Form with two pictures, a close-up and a full-body photo
• Photo-copy of Birth Certificate
• Certificate of Good Moral Character from School’s Guidance Counselor or Barangay Captain
• Outfit for Screening (Applicants must come in full make-up):
a. Swimsuit (Should not be vulgar or may cause for disqualification)
i. Female – Two Piece with shawl
ii. Male – Trunks
b. Denim Outfit
i. Female – Maong pants with mid-rib sleeveless shirt and high-heeled shoes
ii. Male – Maong pants and body-fit shirt and rubber shoes
c. Formal Wear
i. Female – Cocktail dress with high-heeled shoes
ii. Male – Coat with tie (or Barong Tagalog) and black formal pants with black formal shoes

DATES TO REMEMBER

• July 15 – August 15, 2009 – Application Period (Davao and Gensan)
• August 23, 2009 – Screening and Elimination (Gaisano Mall Gensan)
• August 28, 2009 – Pre-Judging Night (Andrea Ticia Resto)
• August 30, 2009 – Fashion Extravaganza (Gaisano Mall Gensan)
• September 2, 2009 – Close Door Interview (Asia United Bank)
• September 3, 2009 – Pageant Night (Gaisano Mall Gensan)

The APPLICATION FORM can be downloaded by CLICKING HERE.

Here are the CASH PRIZES:

• CHAMPION (Male and Female) – PhP12,000.00 cash  plus trophy each
• Best Ramp Model (Male and Female) – PhP8,000.00 cash plus trophy each
• Best Photographic Model (Male and Female) – PhP8,000.00 cash plus trophy each
• Discovery Model (Male and Female) – PhP5,000.00 cash plus trophy each
• Consolation Prize for the six non-winning couples at PhP500.00 each

This just got in!

According to very, very, very reliable sources… no, let me rephrase that,   according to a Robinsons insider, Gokongwei’s biggest mall project in Mindanao, the Robinsons Place General Santos,  will not be unveiled on September as first announced here.  Instead, they are moving their OFFICIAL OPENING to the 3rd quarter of 2009, most possibly in October.

Robinsons GenSan Photo #1: “A photo of Robinsons Place GenSan taken from the leftmost corner of the mall compound.  First door to the right is the entrance to the SUPERMARKET.”

Bariles is assuming that the official day and date which will be formally announced soon will have to conform to Fengshui readings and of course, more practically, on whether the mall, whose rentable spaces are reportedly 90% taken, are finished and ready for the generals.

Anyway, everyone whom Bariles has talked to is very excited about its opening and would give anything just to take a look of what’s inside the doors of this P2-billion edifice which now dominates the skyline of Barangay Lagao.

Robinsons GenSan Photo #2: “The Main Entrance Doorways of Robinsons Place GenSan”

Bariles has been lucky to have been allowed to tour the complex and all he could say during the 20-minuted walk inside was “AMAZING!” and “GRABEEH!”

The mall may not look so imposing from the highway but upon entering the MAIN DOORS at the center, WHOAH!!!!  He felt like he just entered a huge cathedral and he never felt so puny, so small with the gigantic space which greeted him.

ROBINSONS GENSAN PHOTO #3: “A closer look of the Robinsons Place GenSan Main Entrance leading to the cathedral-sized Atrium”

Bariles immediately noticed the ultra-modern and functional features that this soon-to-opened mall possess and was glad that the Gokongwei’s left nothing to chance in ensuring that their flagship mall project in Mindanao will soon be a prime shopping destination in South Central Mindanao.

During the tour inside the mall, Bariles discovered the names of the tenants plastered on the sealed entrances of the different rentable spaces and felt that it was a good mix of local and multinational brands.

He was most excited with Robinsons Movieworld’s 4 moviehouses though,  knowing that their state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and ritzy interiors and seats will be worth each visit.

And yes!  He hopes that food bought inside the mall be allowed at the theaters, too since there’s nothing like a delicious piece of burger, a pack of crispy fries and ice-cold Coke Zero to keep him company while viewing the latest indie movie.

“Robinsons Galleria Mandaluyong’s Movieworld (Flickr foto by A. Acullado)”

The Robinsons Foodcourt beside the movie complex will also be one favorite hangout of Bariles after noticing from the names of the tenants that they will cater to different kinds of palates. Yummy, yummy, yum, yum!

He also got to take a peek of the space reserved for the Robinsons Department Store at the rightmost part of the mall, beside the cinemas; and noticed that it occupies two floors and thus, is equipped with escalators.  It will have its own Entrance from the highway.

Robinsons GenSan Photo #4: “The Entrance to Robinsons Department Store at the Right Side facing the National Highway”

Occupying the front spaces are dining establishments which will stay open until after Robinsons Place’s doors have closed for the evening. They have been provided with their own entrances separate from the Main Doors so diners can stay as late as past midnight during weekends.  And the roofed spaces outside their front doors will be available for customers who want to enjoy their meals al fresco.  Now that would definitely improve GenSan’s night life!!!

Robinsons GenSan Photo #5: “Behind these glass doors will be restaurants and coffee shops which will stay open till midnight. Diners can choose to eat their meals al fresco outside the front yard/sidewalks.”

So there, even though Bariles was not allowed to take shots of the mall’s interiors, he hopes that the pictures here of Robinsons Place General Santos will ensure everyone that sooner or later, General Santos City will be known as the Shopping Capital of Region 12.

Finally, here is one final look of the soon-to-open Robinsons Place General Santos.  Thanks to the Watermark Wizard for the valuable assistance with the Robinsons GenSan photos and to Marz and Ms. Janette Toral for accompanying Bariles during the tour.

Robinsons GenSan Photo #6: “Robinsons Place GenSan and the spacious parking area infront. Take note of the Waiting Sheds across the Main Entrance.”

For information on Local Leasing, please contact Ms. Kasserine Joy Lim, Lease Officer of Robinsons Place of General Santos through her # at 0923-5697456 or Email her at gensan.lease (at) robinsonsland (dot) com.

Let me start this by allowing us here at GenSan News Online Magazine to greet our brothers and sisters from the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC), “Happy 95th Birthday!“

The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) or Church of Christ, is celebrating its 95th Foundation Day Anniversary on July 27, 2009.  All over the Philippines, there will be the usual yearly thanksgiving services in their temples.  This year however, making it truly special is their plan to gather all the faithful in 14 huge venues across the country, including the General Santos City Oval Plaza at the Tuna Capital, in what they have dubbed as “Iglesia ni Cristo Day”.

The GenSan chapter of the INC has already secured the whole perimeter of the oval plaza with a wire fench and the local government, under Mayor Jun Acharon,  has provided security through the local police and the Civil Security Unit.  With the INC members numbering by the tens of thousands in Soccsksargen, this will definitely be a sight to behold and an experience not to be missed!

The INC’s house of worship in General Santos City is one of the city’s oldest landmarks and it has been here at their Pendatun Avenue location since as far back as Bariles can remember.  He recently featured its pictures taken by an English guy during the Solar Eclipse of 1988.  CLICK HERE to view them.

Anyway, for its part, Malacanang has declared through Republic Act 9645, July 27 of every year as a Special National Working Day.  Whatever that means (how did a holiday become a working day?), we wish the whole INC Family all the best in their Grand Celebration!

Special 95th INC Anniversary greetings go to my relatives from my late Uncle Sofronio Manansala’s Family, led by my first cousin, Dr. Rose Manansala-Evangelio, her husband, Dan and kids, especially Bren, my famous soon-to-be-wed nephew. Uncle Ompong, a former Stanfilco banana grower, is one of the pillars of the Iglesia ni Cristo in GenSan who settled here in the 1930s.

Do you also have friends and relatives from the INC?  You may write them a message below and I am sure that they will come upon this.  Go! Now na!

Do you have what it takes to be the next Ms. GenSan?

Do you think you can compete with some of General Santos City’s fairest in this year’s quest for Ms. GenSan 2009, which is a major activity for the Tuna Festival in September?  And do you feel you have got the brains, the stamina and the determination to make it through a gruelling 3-week preparation and elimination rounds leading to the Ms. GenSan 2009 Finals on September 4, 2009?

If you said yes to all of those and want to join the rank of the reigning Ms. GenSan 2008, the statuesque Romarie Ivy Cunanan, then here are the qualifications you should have and the requirements you need to comply with first:

QUALIFICATIONS OF CONTESTANTS

• Must be a resident of General Santos City for at least ONE YEAR
• Single, female, has neither been married nor has ever given birth
• Between 18 and 25 years of age (during reigning period)
• At least five feet and four inches (5’4”) in height (164.6 cm)
• Completed at least secondary schooling (High School graduate) with acceptable intelligence thus qualified to be Gensan’s Ambassadress of Goodwill
• Must be pretty with healthy, smooth and blemish-free skin (Body should be tattoo-free)
• Must have good figure which must be proportionate to height
• Must be conversant in both English and Tagalog and has pleasing personality
• Must have good moral character
• Must not be a current title holder of any pageant

REQUIREMENTS NEEDED FOR SCREENING APPLICANTS

• Filled-up Application Form with two pictures, a close-up and a full-body photo
• Photo-copy of Birth Certificate
• Certificate of Good Moral Character from School’s Guidance Counselor or Barangay Captain
• Certificate of Residency from the Barangay Captain
• Outfit for Screening (Applicants must come in full make-up):

1. Smart Casual (can be Jeans and Blouse)
2. Swimsuit with shawl
3. Cocktail dress with High-heeled shoes

DATES TO REMEMBER

• July 15 – August 15, 2009 – Application Period
• August 22, 2009 – Screening and Elimination (Gaisano Mall Gensan)
• August 29, 2009 – Talent Night (Gaisano Mall Gensan)
• August 30, 2009 – Fashion Extravaganza (Gaisano Mall Gensan)
• September 1, 2009 – Close Door Interview (Asia United Bank)
• September 4, 2009 – Pageant Night (Gaisano Mall Gensan)

Poster for the Search for Ms. GenSan 2009, featuring reigning Ms. GenSan 2009 Romemarie Ivy Cunanan and her court: 1st runner-up Ms. Ryndyll Faye Bartolaba and 2nd runner-up Ms. Kristelle Marie Velayo.

CASH PRIZES

* Miss Gensan Winner – PhP25,000.00 cash plus trophy
* Miss Gensan 1st Runner-up – PhP15,000.00 cash plus trophy
* Miss Gensan 2nd Runner-up – PhP10,000.00 cash plus trophy
* Best in Talent – PhP2,000.00 cash
* Best in Festival Costume – PhP5,000.00 cash
* Best in Swimwear – PhP2,000.00 cash
* Best in Gown – PhP2,000.00 cash
* Miss Congeniality – PhP2,000.00 cash
* Twelve Consolation Prizes of PhP5,000.00 cash each

To download, the APPLICATION FORM, simply CLICK HERE PLEASE.

About two weeks ago, a new TV commercial featuring World Boxing Champ Manny Pacquiao promoting the local gin brand, Ginebra San Miguel started airing in millions of homes in the Philippines.

This time, Manny’s famous mother, Dionisia Pacquiao also made her appearance, showing herself near the very end, providing the laughs in what is otherwise, a very common plot of a commercial. San Miguel Corporation, which owns Ginebra could have chosen a better storyline.  Still, Bariles is giving them credit for finally utilizing Mommy Dionisia’s fame and capitalizing on her close relationship with her son.

To her credit too, Mommy Dionisia gives it her all and acts like a seasoned performer, playing the perfect foil to Manny’s “caught-in-the-act” partying character.

Then, this week, another TV ad came out from the son and mother team, this time promoting Magnolia ice cream and milk, owned by the same company, San Miguel Corporation.  Again, Manny and Dionisia Pacquiao’s comic timing came out well.

Undoubtedly, because of these TV ads, new TV commercial queen, Dionisia and her son Manny have surely wrenched the “Best Mother and Child Comedy Team” trophy from Annabelle and Ruffa Gutierrez.

Expect more commercials from this duo.

Now, what products do you think should Manny and Dionisia promote next?  And what should be their “catchphrase”?

As Bariles is writing this, the Partial Solar Eclipse is happening at this very moment.  Here below is his shot taken at 9:42 am, July 22, 2009 in General Santos City.  He covered the lens from the Canon 300D Camera he was using with a used x-ray film to shoot this.

Inspired by this heavenly phenomenon, GenSan News Online Mag is sharing with its faithful readers Solar Eclipse photos taken by Kryss Katsiavriades, a photo journalist and “eclipse chaser” from United Kingdom, Europe who documented the March 18, 1988 Total Solar Eclipse from General Santos City in his website.

At that time, the Solar Eclipse was best seen at its totality here in General Santos City, (then known not as the Tuna Capital but as Pineapple City), and therefore, hordes of scientists, astronomers, journalists, tv crews, tourists from all around the globe flew into what was then a quiet, sleepy city.  Even then President Cory Aquino joined in the fun of experiencing her first total Solar eclipse from what is now the Pioneer Seeds Compound in Barangay Apopong.

Bariles had also to take the plane from Cagayan de Oro, where he was then based to Davao, a day earlier to catch the solar eclipse which the local government of General Santos City (under former Mayor Rosalita Nunez) was promoting as one big Tourism Event.

The City Tourism Office and some enterprising people came out with all sorts of souvenirs including tshirts, brochures, visor caps, hats, solar glasses, etc for the occasion.  A dance contingent made up like Ati-Atihan dancers even greeted the visitors near the City Hall.  It was a fiesta, to say the least.

Here are some of the solar eclipse photos taken by Kryss Katsiavriades of that eventful time, not necessarily of the eclipse alone but of the people around him.  They are priceless photos of a GenSan gone by and of an event which will forever be etched in the memories of those who experienced it.

GenSan Ati-atihan Dancers greet visitors during the 1988 Solar Eclipse (photo by Kryss Katsiavriades)

Photographers and eclipse chasers prepare their photographic and video quipment at the GenSan City Hall Rooftop, minutes before the Solar Eclipse in March 18, 1988 (photo by Kryss Katsiavriades)

Kryss Katsiavriades carries a rifle in this souvenir shot with military men securing foreign visitors, minutes before the March 18, 1988 Solar Eclipse. Photo was taken at the GenSan City Hall Rooftop.

Kryss (5th from left) with other eclipse observers at the GenSan City Hall Rooftop, including Rosario, his guide (to his left). Check out Kryss' shirt with the "Pineapple City" graphics. And the hair fashion that time!!! (Photo from Kryss Katsiavriades.)

Military personnel try to view the ongoing March 18, 1988 solar eclipse in this photo by Kryss Katsiavriades. They look like CAFGUS to me!

Now, here are the precious money shots, from the camera of Kryss Katsiavriades. Below is the Iglesia ni Kristo Building visible from the General Santos City Hall Rooftop which Kryss used to illustrate the progress of the March 18, 1988 Solar Eclipse. Read the time line from each photo’s caption supplied by Kryss himself.

The Iglesia ni Kristo Building, seen from across the rooftop of the GenSan City Hall. These shots illustrate the progress of the Solar Eclipse on March 18, 1988. Photos are by Kryss Katsiavriades.

And finally, here is the 1988 Solar Eclipse Photo of Kryss, taken by his handheld camera.

The Total Solar Eclipse Photo of Kryss Katsiavriades shot on March 18, 1988, from the rooftop of the General Santos City Hall

By the way, where were you during the Total Solar Eclipse on March 18, 1988?

Today’s 1st Regional Investment Conference (R12 ICON) is the culminating event (together with the Young Entrepreneurs Fair) of the most succesful conduct of the Yaman GenSan (GenSan Business Month) ever.

The ICON is a project of  the Department of Trade and Industry XII in cooperation of Department of Tourism XII, Department of Agriculture, and Bureau of Fisheries &  Aquatic Resources XII.  The venue is at the Paseo del Sol, National Hi-way, General Santos City beginning today. July 22 until the 23rd.

Under the theme “Channeling Substantial Resources Towards Investments”, the two-day R12 ICON aims among others to promote trade, industry and tourism investments in the region.

1st Regional Investment Conference (ICON 12) Poster

The event has three component activities: Investment Conference, One-on-One Business Matching, and Investment Exhibit.

The plenary session in the morning serves as the venue for the presentation of market prospects and investment opportunities in featured projects such as freshwater shrimp (ulang); honeybee; coconut sugar, sap and honey; barako coffee; cardava banana; sunflower farming; eco-tourism site development; malunggay; and ICT-KPO.

The break-out session in the afternoon shall be product specific for a thorough discussion of product, technology, financing windows and for business matching, as well.

Major institutional buyers/producers both in the domestic and international market are being tapped as resource speakers.

Interested participants would only have to shell out P1,000 to join the conference which is a fitting end to Yaman GenSan 2009.

As Yaman GenSan 2009 winds up over the weekend, a very interesting event unfolds this very day, Tuesday, July 21, 2009 which could pave the way for General Santos City to be known for other aquaculture products aside from Tuna.

This is the 2nd Hito Conference which happens at 8am to 5pm and the Pangasius Night in the evening, both at the Paseo del Sol, National Hgihway, Gen. Santos City.

The theme for the conference is “Getting our acts together through Sustainability”.

Poster of 2nd Hito Conference and Pangasius Night

The Department of Trade & Industry 12, Bureau of Fisheries & Aquatic Resources 12 & SOCSARGEN Catfish Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SOCAFAMPC) are the event’s major sponsors.

According to the conference’s invitation, “The conference aims to encourage more investments on production and processing and address the gaps identified in the value chain, particularly related to market and access to financing.”

It goes on to say, “This big event shall be participated by fishpond operators, fish processors, academe, government and on-government organizations.  The registration fee per participant is PhP 500.00 and a discounted fee of PhP 350.00 for farmer-growers.”

The Pangasius Night that follows in the evening will be the chance for restaurant operators and fish processors can showcase and serve Pangasius dishes prepared and cooked in varied menus and ready-to-cook products such as sweet & sour pangasius, steamed dory in royal sauce, dory fillet, baked dory with cheese herbs, grilled dory with bagoong sauce, pangasius paksiw, sinabawan , deep fried pangasius & bola-bola whole/sliced pangasius.

Tickets to this gastronomic feast is only P250.

The local government of General Santos City through Memorandum No. OMMA2009-JUL-IGST-0201 signed by Mayor Pedro B. Acharon, Jr. has announced that Muslim and non-Muslim employees are all “excused from work” on July 20, 2009.

A 16th century Persian miniature painting celebrating Muhammad's ascent into the Heavens, a journey known as the Miraj. Muhammad's face is veiled, a common practice in Islamic art.

This is in observance of Izra Wal Miraj or the Night Journey and Ascension of Prophet Mohammad, corresponding to the 27th day of Rajab, 1430 Hijra of the Islamic Lunar Calendar.

According to a separate and earlier memo from Director Guialil R. Kanda of the Office of Muslim Affairs, Socsargen Field Office-12, this is recognized as a legal Muslim Holiday by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 1082 and Civil Service Commission Resolution No. 81-1277 dated November 13, 1981.

Izra Wal Miraj is celebrated each year by the whole Muslim world via a festival for families, the Lailat al Miraj.  Parents bring their children to mosques where the little ones are told the story and pray with the grown-ups.  Food will later be served to everyone.

And so with that, GenSan News Online Mag wishes our Muslim brothers and sisters a very meaningful celebration of the Izra Wal Miraj!

Last night, the five videos for the Magandang GenSan Campaign were unveiled to the people gathered at the KCC Convention and Events Center for its launching.

The videos all show the faces, facets and places which, in a nutshell, represent what is truly “Magandang GenSan”:  People and Industry; Colors and Textures; Harmony and Fusion; Fun and Frolic and Sun-up and Sundown.

All the five ads were directed by Egai Cadiente.  Music was by the combined forces of Egai and Cecil Gao-ay with Mia Rocacorba supplying the vocals. Digital Detours provided the production backend (and the links to the videos below).  Of course, they were produced by the City Mayor’s Office through the Tourism, Cultural Promotions and Development of CEMCDO.

Notable personalities like the reigning Ms. GenSan 2008 Romarie Cunanan and her court, the Ms. Teen GenSan 2009 Prexy Whittmer, Ms. GenSan Tourism 2009 Alex Hohe, CEMCDO’s Papoose Salazar and her daughter, the Teatro Ambahanon and Mayor Jun Acharon, among others were featured in the videos. Watch out for them.

These videos, by the way have started airing at the ABS-CBN programs, Magandang Umaga Socsksargen and TV Patrol Socsksargen.  Hopefully, they will be aired nationally soon and worldwide over TFC.

If Malaysia has Malaysia, Truly Asia; Thailand has its Amazing Thailand; and Singapore has its Uniquely Singapore, now the Tuna Capital will be known worldwide for its Magandang GenSan.

Here then, ladies and gentlemen are the Five Magandang GenSan videos, starting off with:

HARMONY and FUSION:

COLORS AND TEXTURES

FUN AND FROLIC

SUNUP TO SUNDOWN

PEOPLE AND INDUSTRY

Magandang GenSan talaga, ano?  Now which ones are your favorites?

General Santos City’s Yaman GenSan 2009 goes full steam with the conduct this week of the 7th National Vegetable Congress, starting today, July 14 up to the 16th.

Spearheaded by the Central Mindanao Vegetable Industry and Development Council (CEMVIDEC), the congress which happens at the Family Country Hotel and Convention Center has adopted the theme, “Accelerating the Development of the Philippine Vegetable Industry in Response to National and Global Challenges”

This Yaman GenSan 2009 event is co-presented by the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Unit 12 and the local government of General Santos City .

According to the organizers in their email to GenSan News Online Mag, “The congress aims to bring the best minds together to address the issues and concerns affecting the vegetable industry in the country, (and) at the same time, promoting and strengthening producer’s partnerships and establish(ing) direct trade/business linkages with the local and international buyers.” Whew!

The congress Secretariat expects about 500 small farmers, farmer associations, veggie traders, consolidators, concessionaires, national and local government agencies, NGOs, academe and service providers from all over the nation.

The registration fee for the 7th National Vegetable Congress is only P2,500.  This is inclusive of  all the food you can eat for 2 days, a Souvenir Program (presumably with Manny Pacquiao’s photo on it, but Bariles is just guessing here), a CD with the speakers’ presentations, Certificate of Attendance, Congress Kit, Farm Tours and invites to the two Fellowship Nights.

The meat, however of all these, is the Vegetable Derby Tour in Malungon, Sarangai Province where World Boxing Champ Manny Pacquiao shall host a fellowship (which is happening right now as Bariles is writing this).  Attendees may be able to take pix of the celebrity boxer and have their pix taken with him, too.  To top it all, all these will happening during Malungon’s Slang Festival, in celebration of its 40th Foundation Anniversary.

At the plenary venue, an exhibit showcasing modern and hi-tech agri products of over 30 companies will be on display.  This is open to everyone, attendees to the congress or not.

Tonight’s Welcome Dinner will be hosted by the City Government so hopefull, Bariles will see you there.  Look for him near any of the 2 giant tuna which will be sliced for the all-you-can-eat sashimi which will be served.

Happy Yaman GenSan 2009 and welcome to the Tuna Capital everyone!

For more info, please contact the Vegetable Congress Secretariat Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) DA-FRU XII at telefax # (83) 520-0693 or thru the congress point person, Mr. Jovic Santos at 0910-5617122 or 0932-2769520.

At exactly 4pm today, Monday, July 13, 2009, the  City Government of General Santos City, through the Office of the City Economic Management and Cooperative Development will conduct the Grand Launching of the “Magandang GenSan” Campaign.

Directed by Mr. Edgar Cadiente, Assistant Department Head of th OCEMCD, the grand launch will be staged at the KCC Convention and Events Center.  According to Egai, this is one event that should not be missed by everyone because the print and video materials for the campaign will be unveiled to the public for the first time.

GenSan City Mayor Jun Acharon, newly arrived from a business trip from Australia, will personally launch the campaign.

Tomorrow, Tuesday, July 14, the video materials will be aired at ABS-CBN’s Magandang Umaga Socsksargen and TV Patrol Socsksargen.

Bariles received an invitation in form of a “mock postcard” featuring a photo of Jing Velos of a young man on a skimboard at the Queen Tuna Park.

Meanwhile here is the invite to the Grand Launching of the “Magandang GenSan” Campaign.  Take particular note of the “stamps” on the upper right hand corner of the mock post card.  That is the photo of the painting of General Paulino Santos done by USA-based “general” Bueno Silva.  The painting now hangs inside the Gen. Paulino Santos Museum of NDDU.

Magandang GenSan Launch Invite Front Copy

Here is the back side of the invitation:

Back Portion of Magandang GenSan Grand Launch Invite

As part of the Yaman GenSan 2009, an animated movie which was an official entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival 2008 last Christmas will finally be screened for the local audience.

We are talking about “Dayo, Sa Mundo ng Elimentalia”, the first fully-animated Pinoy movie to use CGI (Computer Graphics Interface).  It went on to win the awards on Best Visual Effects, Best Musical Score, Best Theme Song (Lipad, sung by Lea Salonga), and Best Sound.

Dayo in GenSan Poster

Directed by Robert Quilao, the movie features the voices of Nash Aguas, Michael V, Pokwang, Johnny Delgado, Noel Trinidad, Peque Gallaga, Laurice Guillen, among others.  The Screenplay was written by Temi Abad, Jr. and Eric Cabahug.

The movie, produced by Jessie Lasaten’s Cutting Edge Productions, will be screened on July 14 and 15, 2009 at the KCC Mall of GenSan Convention Center.  Move passes are priced at P100 only.

With each movie pass, the bearer is entitled to become a member of Red Cross Philippines, Inc. which comes with a P12,000 Accident Insurance coverage for one year.

Other than that, to avail of promotional offers, the Dayo movie pass may also the presented to the following outlets:

• Mang Inasal - One Free Softdrink for a Sulit or Paborito Meal;
• Prints and You (KCC)- One Free Bagtag with your picture and the movie’s cast in the background, for only P40;
• Video City – Membership Card for only P16.

On July 16, 2009, an Animation Process and Production Seminar will also be held at the KCC Convention Center.

Here is the full trailer of Dayo, Sa Mundo ng Elimentalia.

Passes to the screening of Dayo are available at the DTI Office, South Osmena, General Santos City, for only P100.

Attention, all golf enthusiasts within the South Central Mindanao Area!

The Rotary Club of Polomolok 101 is sponsoring a Charity Golf Tournament this Sunday, July 12, 2009 Kalsangi Golf Course inside the Dole Philippines Kalsangi Executives Village at the foot of Mt. Matutum in Polomolok, right in the midst of the largest pineapple plantation in the world.

Rotary 101 Charity Golf Tournament Poster

The Rotary Club of Polomolok 101 which was formally formed in August 31, 2005 might be a young organization but nevertheless, is the only service club in the municipality of Polomolok.

Even from the start, charter President, Omar Gallinero has deemed it necessary to run a fund-raising activity which could help fund their projects meant to assist the people within their community.  That is why, immediately after they were installed into office, his pioneering Rotary group in Polomolok spearheaded the 1st Charity Golf Tournament at the scenic golf course of Kalsangi which proved so successful that they decided to make it an annual affair.  Now on its 5th year, this fund-raising event continues to gather generous golf enthusiasts and kind-hearted souls who believe in their cause.

Rotary 101 Polomolok's Charity Golf Tournament

Deadline for the Pre-Registration for the 5th Rotary 101 Charity Golf Tournament is today, July 10, 2009 at P1,200.  Onsite registration fee is P1,800.  Mulligans cost P200 each.  For more info, please call or text Maribel at (083) 500-2097, 0922-8959653, 0921-7868069.  Or Liza at (083) 500-2500 local 3540, 0929-3968833. SHOTGUN START at 7:00AM at the Kalsangi Golf Course.

After the super succesful conduct of Sarangani Highlands’ Takdol Festival Lumad Night last month, now comes its 2nd in a series of themed full moon parties.  (Takdol is visayan for “full moon”.)

This time the Takdol Festival conjures up images of latinovelas by going Mexican on July 10, 2009!!  Arriba!!  Arriba!!

Takdol Festival goes Mexican

While the 1st one featuring Lumad Cuisine cost P450 per person, which was quite prohibitive for most, now one can have his fill of burritos, fajitas, tacos, and more for only P200 pesos!!!!

And other than that, entertainment will be provided by the Los Pobres Band, supplied by the San Miguel Beer Group!  Wow!!

With all these, Bariles who might bring his whole caboodle of friends just might make it  because he  loves anything which will remind him of Zorro, Thalia, Maria Mercedes, tango, Speedy Gonzalez, a mananita harana, Mariachi music and all the boxers that Manny Pacquiao knocked out.

Now, if Sarangani Highlands could only invite the Mexican Destroyer to be there too, then that would really be MAGNIFICO!!!

With that, GenSan News Online Mag would like to leave you with a famous spanish song, composed by 16-year old Mexican Consuelo Velazquez in 1940.  Belived to be the most recorded song of all time, “besame mucho” literally means “kiss me a lot” in English.

The song in the following video is performed by a group of Mariachis called “Vargas”. Watch them and hopefully, this will convince you even more to experience Takdol Festival’s Mexican night on Friday!

Andale!!! Andale!!!

The Mexican Night of  the Takdol Festival at the Sarangani Highlands Restaurant starts at 7pm on July 10, 2009, Friday. For reservations, please contact any of the following numbers – (083) 3040752; (083) 5533509, 09228590043.  Tell them, Bariles sent you. 

Beginning today, July 8, 2009 up till the 28th, BluGre Coffee Shop, located at Manny and Jinky Pacquiao’s downtown commercial building in General Santos City will play host to the artworks of Davao painter Anoy Catague.  The showcase, billed as “Colors of Our Roots” is Catague’s 7th Solo Art Exhibit.

Anoy Catague Exhibit Poster

The artist who originally hails from Butuan is now a resident of Davao City whose dayjob is, as cameraman of ABS-CBN Davao. He uses mostly acrylic paint and pen and ink in his work and has adapted surrealism in his painting style.

His subjects matters are the different tribes of Mindanao, starting off with the Manuvus of Agusan del Norte, the Bagobos of Davao, the B’laans of Sarangani, to name just a few.

Last year, Anoy held a succesful one-man show at Museo Dabawenyo which was patronized by no less than Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, who purchased a piece of his works which is now featured in the poster of “Colors of Our Roots”.

As cameraman of ABS-CBN, Anoy has done a lot of documentaries, the latest of which is the documentary on the old families of Davao City, eventually shown on TV during the Araw ng Dabaw.

The “Colors of Our Roots” Art Exhibition at BluGre Coffee is also presented by Manny and Jinky Pacquiao, Mayor Rod Duterte, Architect Michael Ebru Dacudao, Joey Concepcion and ABS-CBN TV Davao and Soccskargen.  It runs from July 8 – 28, 2009.

Bariles did not know that the voters’ registration of the Comelec is now being done on the Barangay Level until he was supposed to bring his housemate to their office at the old GenSan City Hall building today.

This project called the Satellite Voters Registration means that the constituents of General Santos who are already of voting age by June 2010 would only need to go to their respective Barangay Halls to register.

Commission on Elections

And so without much further ado, here is the schedule of GenSan’s Satelllite Voters’ Registration which started last June 29th.

• June 29 -30 — Barangay Upper Labay
• July 1-2          – Batomelong
• July 3-4          – Tinagacan
• July 6-7          – Ligaya
• July 8-9         – Baluan
• July 10-11      – Olympog
• July 13-14      – Conel
• July 15-16      – Mabuhay
• July 17-18      – Katangawan
• July 20-21      – Buayan
• July 22-23      – San Jose
• July 24-25      – Sinawal
• July 27 – August 1  – Calumpang
• August 3-8     – Bula
• August 10-13  – City Heights
• August 14-18  – San Isidro
• August 19-22  – Lagao
• August 24-29  – Tambler
• August 31-Sept 5 – Fatima
• Septenber 7-12    – Labangal
• September 14-19 – Apopong
• September 21-23 – North
• September 24-26 – West
• September 28-30 – East
• October 1 – 3         – South
• October 5 – 7        – Siguel
• October 8 – 9       – Holy Trinity College*
• October 5 – 7       – Mindanao State University*
• October 14-16     – KCC Mall*

* - Satellite Voters Registration on these venues are still subject for approval by the Regional Election Director.