March 4, 2009
Camiguin, Hotels, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Reviews, Tourism, Travel, northern mindanao
Summer is drawing near and I’m pretty sure that most, if not all, of you are thinking of places to go to during those hot summer days. And with airlines now offering more flights to and fro Camiguin Island, Mindanao, I’m sure many of you are considering the place dubbed as the “Island Born of Fire” as one of your summer destinations in the Philippines.
Tia’s Beach Resort in the Island of Camiguin, Northern Mindanao, Philippines can be considered a good place to stay especially if you’re on a budget. The last time my mother, brothers and I stayed there was last year during the Holy Week. We planned to go to Camiguin at the last minute so practically most of the hotels and inns were already fully booked. Good thing my brother remembered Tia’s Beach Resort and how he and his friends liked staying there. We ended up getting the very last available cottage – good for a family of 5. We paid roughly P1,000 per night. Not bad, right?
Tia’s Beach Resort is located in Tapon, Poblacion, Barangay Mambajao, Camiguin Island. I think others call the place Tia’s Beach Cottages. By the way, Tia’s also has another branch which they call Tia’s Pension House. That one’s not along the shore, though.
The nipa-and-wood cottage we paid for had an airconditioning unit, three beds (we got two extra beds for P100 a bed), an electric stand fan, beddings, a clean shower room and comfort room, a mini veranda and a sink which can also double as a mini kitchen. The friendly staff can only provide a roll of tissue paper and two sachets of shampoo so if you have a large group, don’t forget to bring some toiletries with you.
Tia’s has a restaurant which serves good and affordable food. You can also request the kitchen staff to whip up something special like the scrambled eggs with tomatoes we requested them to cook for us. Their restaurant also has a videoke machine so feel free to sing your heart out.
Tia’s Beach Resort Camiguin is also near the Mambajao Public Market so if you want to buy fresh seafoods or do some groceries, you can easily do so.
Perhaps the only thing that some travelers might not like about staying at Tia’s is the fact that you need to walk roughly 150 meters before you can reach “the main road” (or at least the parola area where there are several other restaurants and public utility vehicles for hire) – unless, of course, if you’re bringing your own private vehicle. Actually, you need to cross the Mambajao Airport strip (I kid you not!) before you can reach Tia’s. Don’t worry, though, the airport strip isn’t used very often. Besides, a guard will also warn you if an airplane’s about to land.
Anyways, bottom line is — Tia’s Beach Resort Camiguin Island is safe, clean, has friendly and courteous personnel and has very affordable rates. I recommend staying at Tia’s to barkadas, budget travelers and large families.
For more hotel reviews by Mindanaoan, please check this page. Don’t forget to subscribe to Mindanaoan so you can always be kept updated with the latest here in the island. Just enter your email address below. Salamat! 
It was a chilly Friday night (November 14, 2008) when my mom and I went to watch the ASAP Live-produced and Phillip Lazaro-directed “Da Spooftacular Showdown” comedy show featuring top Filipino comedians Jon Santos, John “Sweet” Lapus, Candy Pangilinan and Pokwang (who was that week’s guest). We arrived at Music Museum, Greenhills two hours early, which was fine since we wanted to have dinner beforehand.
We spotted former Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition winner Keanna Reeves, by the way. She, along with a much younger guy, stayed in front of the Starbucks joint near the Music Museum entrance. She looked restless and seemed to know that people around her were staring at her and talking about her. Who wouldn’t be when she was wearing a very sexy attire? It was just really amusing when some people who stood near my mom and I kept on saying out aloud, “Sino nga yan uli? Nakita ko na yan sa TV eh. Di ba siya yung nag testify sa Senado na escort daw siya?” (Who’s that again? I already saw her on TV. Isn’t she the one who testified before the Senate and said that she’s an escort?) 
Anyways, after dinner at one of the restaurants at the Promenade area, we went back to Music Museum. I already bought our Orchestra Center tickets online via the Ticketworld website a few days ago so we just breezed right through the entrance door. Each ticket, by the way, was priced P2,000.00 each (so that’s P4,000.00 for both tickets) – pretty expensive but the hefty price supposedly guaranteed two of the best seats in the house.
Well, not really.
Our seats were located along Row G which were not really located at the center and were really not the “better seats.” In fact, up to the minute the show started, there were so many vacant seats in front of us that I almost wanted to request that we be transferred. After all, we paid the same price. Still, I wanted to enjoy the night and not go through hassles so my mom and I opted to just stay put.
The show, as in most (if not all) shows here in the Philippines, started late. What supposedly was an 8 PM show started at a little past 9 PM. That was not good at all.
And so “Da Spooftacular Showdown” began. There were still a lot of empty seats (I reckon most of those in front were for sponsors or members of the media or friends of the actors). I guess it’s either the show lacked promotion or people simply found the ticket prices too expensive (ticket prices were P1,500, P1,850 and P2,000)
By the way, my mom and I spotted celebrities Gelli de Belen, Donita Rose (who was with her husband) and former actor Bojo Molina.
Jon Santos, John “Sweet” Lapus and Candy Pangilinan opened the show with a spoof on the Anne Curtis-starrer “Dyosa.” Sweet immediately grabbed the audience’s attention when he appeared wearing a costume depicting a white horse. Jon played the sirena (mermaid) and Candy was the bird. The tirades between the three on who will be the next “Dyosa” were funny and witty – I especially liked the part where the three outwitted each other on who had more songs written about them etc.
(CLICK ON THE PHOTOS FOR LARGER VIEWS)
The show was all right. There were a lot of runaway, totally certified, 100% guaranteed downright funny jokes, spiels, spoofs and adlibs. Watch out for Sweet’s take on his Dyosa horse character — he was really hilarious when he did the “Exorcism” thing. I also loved Sweet’s impersonation of his friend Kris Aquino in the “Oh Boy! It’s Kris” segment. He really captured Kris’ facial expressions, mannerisms and even the way she stands and delivers her “Deal or No Deal” statement. And, of course, who can ever forget his spoof on Janina San Miguel, the former Bb. Pilipinas-World? Sweet oh-so-bravely wore a gold swimsuit, to the sheer amusement of the audience. He delivered his Janina spoof lines really well…plus you will be amazed at how flawless Sweet is!
Candy’s spoof on Bea Alonzo’s character in Betty La Fea was a huge hit. Watch out for the Betty as a flight attendant segment – you will really love it! That really had me laughing out loud! Candy actually made the character very endearing. Candy’s Nora Aunor impersonation was also very good although I must say I didn’t quite understand why, according to her, some Nora Aunor fans didn’t like the way she impersonated their idol. There wasn’t anything offensive – the spoof was just fun and funny so there’s really no need for the Superstar’s fans to get worried.
Pokwang, that night’s guest, was also in her element. The audience loved her delivery of “Eeeww” ala Ruffa Gutierrez. She also did a great job impersonating the feisty Annabelle Rama. Like the three other seasoned comedians, she also adlibbed and even joked at the end of the show that she finally has amortization for her home (referring to the talent fee that she’s set to receive for her two-day gig). 
Last but definitely not the least — Jon Santos (quick fast fact: Jon is a certified Mindanaoan!) Jon, who recently admitted that he got married to his longtime gay partner in Canada, shined in his classic, infamous Vilma Santos and Vicki Belo impersonations. There was no doubt that Jon was the “lead” comedian of the night. He was just so amazing! He connected with the audience (in fact, he connected so well that two men sitting along the front row kept on laughing like wild hyenas) and he was not afraid to adlib. Actually, there were some technical glitches during the show (there were some images that didn’t show up on the wide screen and the “Bathala” – voiced over by Phillip Lazaro – seemed to have forgotten to give Jon the cue) but Jon “saved” the segment.
Still, even with the stellar cast, there were also some jokes that didn’t really sit well with the audience (most probably because we’ve heard them before and the only thing that was “different” was the way it was delivered or probably because the audience that night didn’t like “R 18” jokes…there were some during the show). The spoof on Vicki Belo (Vicki Bolo that night), for instance, had quite a few jokes that we either have read on text messages or in the Internet (although I must say that spin on Vicki having a so-called previous relationship with Manny Kawayan – spoof on current competitor Manny Calayan – was amusing). The part where they also made fun of celebrities’ photos was a bit of a drag. Good thing Jon as Vicki looked pretty and flawless and he delivered his lines so well that it was probably the best “Spooftacular” segment that night.
Some segments also seemed to be just mere “fillers.” The spoof on Charice Pempengco (played by Candy as one “Charos”) was all right but needed more “meat.” The audience already laughed at how Kris can be annoying when interjecting and at how funny Jon can be as Oprah Winfrey but that was already it. Charos’ character just kept on crying and there was nothing else that I found funny anymore. There were also a lot of lines that didn’t elicit laughter at all. They were probably amusing for some, though. Amusing but not funny. There were also some sarcastic tirades (like the part where Candy’s Betty character supposedly hit on the “President” for being pangit/ugly…but she quickly added that she referred to the “President of their Homeowners Association.”)
The show just got a fresh breath of air when Sweet came out as Janina and Jon as Vilma (with her trademark “Two glasses a day!”). They had really funny spiels. 
All in all, I could say that the “Da Spooftacular Showdown” is worth watching but only when you have extra money. I can’t consider it as a “never to be missed” show (you can probably have the same kind of fun in stand up comedy bars) although I must admit it had its highlights. Actually, my first reaction right after the show was, “Okay lang.” Still, if you’re a huge fan of Jon, Sweet, Candy and Pokwang, then you should watch since it will take you really up close with them. After all, it’s a big treat to watch seasoned comedians do what they know and do best. Also (and most importantly) if you’re just a sheer fan of Filipino ingenuity and comedic talents and you want to support our local artists, then watch. “Da Spooftacular Showdown” can truly take your blues away…at least for two hours.
Check the Ticketworld website for the remaining “Da Spooftacular Showdown” shows.
November 7, 2008
Arts, Davao City, Entertainment, Mindanaoan Artists, Mindanaoan Update, Music, Musings, Opinion, Personalities, Reviews
Original album review written last August 31, 2007. The author of this piece (who is also the one behind Mindanaoan.com) is a long-time supporter of award winning Filipino band South Border. Jay Durias, a certified Dabawenyo, is South Border’s musical director and keyboardist. Jay’s solo album, “Songs I Grew Up With,” is a project album.
Admit it – you’ve always wondered how South Border keyboardist and musical director Jay Oliver Durias would fare as a solo artist. After all, he’s largely considered as “the main man” behind the highly successful band, having composed and arranged most of South Border’s hits including “Rainbow,” “Love Of My Life” and the favorite of many, “Kahit Kailan,” and having sung the well-loved ballad “Habang Atin Ang Gabi.” The silent musical genius behind a lot of hits including “Ikaw Nga” (OST – Mulawin, GMA 7) and “Di Na Nag-iisa” (OST – Darna, GMA 7), you can’t help but think – when will someone like Durias, who has the soulful voice, the boyish charm and the unquestionable talent ever try to do something on his own, away from the image of South Border and just as himself? Because, really, South Border may have had front liners but fans and music critics alike have always recognized and appreciated him and his work. Come to think of it – while it’s difficult to imagine South Border without Jay Durias, it’s not difficult to imagine a Jay Durias without South Border – the man has what it takes to produce phenomenal hits – there’s just not been a chance for him to fully showcase his gift.
Fortunately, that chance is here…NOW.
Durias is finally giving the music world a touch uniquely his own via a solo album dubbed “Songs I Grew Up With” (produced under new label Open Mic Records, distributed by Star Records). And, no, this project should not be misconstrued. The solo project has the full blessings of his band mates and is in no way an indication that he’s leaving the band.
A collection of carefully chosen ditties which have, in one way or another, made quite an impact in Durias’ young life, “Songs I Grew Up With” contains 10 tracks – “Do That To Me One More Time,” “ Light and Shade,” “Him,” “Reward,” “Birthday Song,” “You Can Do Magic,” “My Cherrie Amour,” “Goodnight Girl,” “Sa Hangin” and the carrier single, “I’ll Have To Say I Love You In A Song.”
Before you dismiss the album as just another bunch of chopped covers, one must realize that these songs represent memories. Hence, unlike other albums that either try to match the original artists’ high notes or try to focus on the songs’ commercial appeal, the songs in this album are stamped with candor, warmth and individuality. Because Durias sings them honestly and from the heart, the songs become – different. Every song has new details and Durias’ genuine artistry reflects on each.
“Songs I Grew Up With” boasts of a lot of attitude, beautifully re-arranged tunes and solid, powerful vocal varieties. The album can be considered a journey of sorts. From the days when Durias was still feeling his way in the world to the days of pure gratitude, the listener is transported to the happy, sad, upbeat and thankful days of one of Davao City’s pride and joy.
While the entire album generally has a magical feel to it, one should not discount the fact that each and every song has a distinct touch.
The carrier single, “I’ll Have To Say I Love You…,” for instance, is one of the pleasant surprises in the album. Trained and untrained ears alike may probably never know what’s coming, judging by the first few notes of the song. Then, a few seconds later, it becomes a light bulb moment – you can’t but mutter to yourself, “how’d he do that? Now that’s good music.” The carrier single is peppered with spice and everything nice – it embodies an album that you know will underscore Durias’ silent but laudable gift.
“Do That To Me…” is another pleasant surprise in the album. A few seconds into the melody and one will eventually realize that the ditty has evolved into something rich and playful. The beautiful thing about this is that it hasn’t totally veered away from its classic feel that’s reminiscent of sweet love.
“My Cherrie Amour” has a nice twist, too. It has become sexier…more provocative…but with a whiff of tenderness. Listeners will love the easy-on-the-ear vocals and the different take on the melody – it’s as “lovely as a summer’s day!”
Another noteworthy track is “You Can Do Magic,” which can most likely be an easy favorite of many. Durias laced the song with amazing, danceable flavor – almost salsa-like. Who would ever think that the inclusion of doo doo doo’s could make this ditty more interesting? One cannot help but wonder how Durias ever thought of re-interpreting that best-loved standard and even making it into a distinct star of a song on its own.
Let it be emphasized, however, that “Songs I Grew Up With” is not just a showcase of Durias’ arranging skills – although for sure industry experts will agree that the album can and has now set the rules, if not raise the bar, in terms of musical arrangements. Vocals-wise, the album can be considered a treasure trove of sorts.
“Light and Shade” and “Him” highlight Durias’ poignant, intriguing and beautiful voice that can only be compared to artists such as John Legend and Brian McKnight. “Birthday Song” is sexy, sweet and interesting. “Reward,” which is incidentally a praise song, features his heart-wrenching rendition of a love and of a longing. It can easily be a favorite of a lonely soul, who wants to reiterate the promise of redemption and faith. Durias’ vocal prowess is also showcased via the emotional rendition of “Goodnight Girl.” If one listens to it deep into the night, it should not be a surprise if tears come soon. The only original and Filipino song in the album, “Sa Hangin,” is a certified blockbuster hit in the making. It has already gained quite a following, after its initial airplay in several radio stations. “Sa Hangin” is a fitting finale of an album that is sure to not only bring listeners down to memory lane or to a sentimental journey but also to let them take a peek inside Durias’ colorful life.
“Songs I Grew Up With,” with all its artful arrangement, smooth vocal power and meticulous choice of significant tracks, has all the ingredients of hard work, talent, ingenuity and yes, commercial success. The quality of the production is obviously high and loyal fans will have their glorious fill of Durias’ great musicianship. Seasoned musicians and people who have yet to succumb to Durias’ spell will enjoy listening to this album. It’s a tranquil, introspective ride anybody would be happy to take.
Lastly, listeners will cherish this album as it reflects a new creative direction for one of today’s most admired musical geniuses. “Songs I Grew Up With” is a celebration…a reminder that once in a while, someone like Durias comes along, shakes things up in a good way and lets us realize that yes, good music is still very much possible.
Get yourself a copy of “Songs I Grew Up With.” It’s money well spent. It’s a toast you can’t help but raise a glass to. (Maria Irene S.A.)
I’ve been staying in a lot of various hotels in Cagayan de Oro City as of late. One of my favorites so far is the Mallberry Suites Business Hotel, which is located right along Florentino Street. It’s right behind the Robinson’s Mall near the Lim Ket Kai Center in downtown Cagayan de Oro City.
Mallberry Suites is a relatively new hotel in Cagayan de Oro, which is dubbed the “City of Golden Friendship.” It’s perfect for traveling businessmen who need a place where “everything’s within reach” and for someone who may need to conduct their meetings at the same hotel where they’re billeted in.
I stayed in one of their De Luxe Rooms (P2,400.00 per night). Now, compared to the Superior Room (P2,200.00 per night), the De Luxe Room has bigger space and has a refrigerator (which I like because you know how expensive drinks at a hotel can be — hence, during my stay in Mallberry, I purchased several bottles of mineral water, my favorite shandy and juices from the nearby Robinson’s Mall grocery department).
The hotel’s other room types include Standard Room (P1,980.00), Junior Suite (P3,300.00), the Mallberry Suite, the Superior Executive (P2,780.00), De Luxe Executive (2,980.00), Junior Executive (P3,700.00) and Presidential Suite (P7,500.00) The rates I cited here are inclusive of the mandatory 12% government tax. The said rates apply to both single and double occupancies and include buffet breakfast good for two. If you need an extra bed or if there’s an additional person in your room, you will be charged P490.00 per extra bed or person and should that person also have breakfast the next day, the charge is extra P220.00. Mallberry Suites hotel’s rates are expensive based on CDO standards, yes. However, the hotel is relatively new, it’s just a few steps away from Lim Ket Kai (the largest mall in the city) and it does have beautiful interiors and luxurious amenities. 
Businessmen will find their conference/meeting rooms adequate and events organizers will also like their ballroom. Apart from the ref and the bigger space, two other things that I liked about my room were the bathtub and the huge mirror window. As much as possible, I avoid rooms that do not have any windows at all. Not that I’m claustrophobic but I like to see and feel the sun’s rays in the morning. And yes, any hotel room that has a clean bathtub gets plus points from me.
The buffet breakfast is served at the 7th floor, specifically at the Tangerine Room. I particularly enjoyed breakfast! I’m really not a breakfast eater but the sumptuous array of delish food was really difficult to pass up. During my stay, they served the typical Filipino breakfast – sinangag (fried rice), creamy scrambled eggs, your choice of tapa, tocino, fried bangus, vegetables etc. There was a mini bread and cereal station for the light eaters and of course, coffee for caffeine addicts like myself, orange juice and hot chocolate for the kids.
On
the other hand, there were also certain things that I didn’t like, though. For a laptop-carrying entrepreneur like myself, I was somehow expecting that they’d offer free Wi-Fi service. While the hotel is a Wi-Fi zone, such service doesn’t come for free. I had to buy a Wi-Fi card. I think it was P100.00 good for 3-5 hours or something. Also, too bad that the hotel doesn’t have a swimming pool. It would have been great to have taken a few laps in the pool before I retired off to sleep. I guess the management didn’t see the need for it (yet) since presumably they want to stick to the “business hotel” image first.
Good thing the hotel is at the downtown area so it’s easy for one to just take a cab and check out the bars along nearby Corrales Street. Alternative nightcap.
All in all, my stay in Mallberry Suites, Cagayan de Oro City was a good one. I’d go back and recommend the hotel to others.
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