San Benito Zip Line Successful Grand Opening

 San Benito Zip Line Successful Grand Opening 

Congratulations to all officials and to Mayor Gina S. Menil for the great job!

San Benito Aerial Surfing Zipline

Tower Zipline

Photo Source: Municipality of San Benito

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Siargao Without the Surfing

"On the map but of the radar until the mid-00's, when a reckless, right-breaking reef wave, Cloud 9, put it on the grid as a premier surfing destination. Legend has it that Cloud 9 was discovered by a group of Australian surfers while scouring the country for the perfect surf spot. They had worked up such an appetite that they plowed through the only thing on hand- a box of Cloud 9 chocolate bars. Fact or fiction, it's this very water break that brings hundred of tourists to the island year after year."

In issue 05 of GRID Magazine, Mookie Katigbak-Lacuesta visits the island of Siargao during its annual surf competition and discovers that there is a charm to Siargao beyond the surf buzz, in the landscape, in the culture and in the very travellers who've come. Issue 05 of GRID Magazine will be out on stands this week. Stay tuned for details.

Photographs by Sonny Thakur

Article Credit: GRID Magazine 

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Chinese dive operators visit Siargao Island

The Chinese dive operators and celebrities with Tourism Attache Gerard Panga and DOT's Dive Market Development Group Representative Wen Sorioso

General Luna, Siargao Island, Philippines --- For the first time, the Philippine Department of Tourism through the initiative of the Dive Market Development Group (MDG) invited six dive operators and celebrities  from Shanghai, China to witness this year's 20th Siargao International Surfing Cup, explore the colorful diving spots in the Island, experience surfing at the world's famous Cloud 9 and encounter the non-sting jellyfish at Siargao's Bucas Grande Island. 

While in Siargao, Tourism Attache Gerard Panga expressed his excitement by posting beautiful photos of the island with the caption, "Surfing. Spelunking underwater. Scuba diving. Sunset. Secret coves and lagoons. Sensational Siargao!!!" 

Close encounter with the non-sting jellyfish at Siargao's Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande Island.

Surfing 101 at Siargao's Cloud 9

This visit  of the Chinese dive operators and celebrities will open new market opportunities for Siargao Island. "Surfing and Diving" is the new market positioning for the island, targeting not only the surfers but also the Chinese, Russian and American dive and adventure markets."

The Dive-MDG is pushing Siargao Island as among the country's "Rising Stars" in diving while giving emphasis on the Siargao's schools of non-sting jellyfish at Bucas Grande Island, which is similar to Palau's famous jelly lake.

This would never be possible without the support of the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte, Local Government Unit of General Luna, PDOT-Shanghai and DOT's Dive-MDG.

Prior to their Siargao Island trip, the group joined the first ever Bohol Ocean Dive Fiesta at Bohol Beach Club. Panga posted in his facebook account, "Amid the heavy rains and threat of flight cancellations, our dive group (25 pax: elite Chinese dive clubs, media & celebrity divers) made it to Bohol and enjoyed perfect weather for diving and dolphin watching, island hopping (Balicasag), river cruise, countryside tour, etc. We had fun and memorable stay at Bohol Beach Club. Next stop...Siargao. It's more fun diving in the Phl!."  (Photos by Gerard Panga)

The Chinese dive operators, dive club members and celebrities in Bohol.

Beach front of Bohol Beach Club

Diving in Bohol Island

The Chinese dive operators, dive club members and celebrities in Bohol.

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Philippines counts down to first ever ASP QS event at Cloud 9

Cloud 9, Siargao, Philippines. PIC ASP/Will H-S

COOLANGATTA, QLD/AUS (Wednesday, September 17, 2014) - The 20th Annual Siargao Cloud 9 Surfing Cup is only weeks away from creating history as the first ASP Qualifying Series (QS) event at Cloud 9 in the Philippines. The event will be co-sanctioned by both the Association of Surfing Professionals and the Asian Surfing Championship (ASC), with surfers battling for precious ranking’s points and prize money at one of the world’s best waves.

While the event only carries a 1-Star rating and won’t be attracting the stars of our sport the way the 6-Star and Prime events do, this event is more about offering competitive experience for local surfers and giving up-and-coming international surfers and future stars of the sport valuable competitive experience at QS level.

Byron Bay's Soli Bailey at the 2011 Siargao Cloud 9 Surfing Cup. Pic ASP/Will H-S.

“It’s fantastic to be working with the ASC to help grow the sport of surfing throughout Asia,” ASP Australasia General Manager Dane Jordan said. “1-Star QS events are the ideal way to test your competitive skills and learn what it takes to fight through a draw of talented surfers. Not to mention have the chance to surf one of the world’s best waves with just a couple of other surfers in the water.” 

16-year-old Quinn Bruce (Coolangatta, QLD/AUS) is one of Australia’s most exciting up-and-coming talents. Bruce works hard to perfect his skills at Snapper Rocks, the training grounds of some of the world’s best surfers — Joel Parkinson, Mick Fanning and Stephanie Gilmore.

“I haven't been to Cloud 9 before and I can’t wait to check the place out,” Bruce said. “I’ve heard it’s a perfect right hand barrel with a section at the end of it which is what every natural footer dreams of. I think living at Snapper and being a natural footer could be an advantage for me. There’s quite a huge difference surfing at QS events compared to the Juniors, in Junior events average scores are no worries, but in QS events it’s much harder to get a good score, plus you’re coming up against bigger and more experienced guys which can sometimes be intimidating. I haven't been told anything negative about the place yet so I'm sure it’s going to be a magical trip.”

Dede Suryana (IND) is one of Indonesia’s favourite surfing sons, and is a threat in any and all conditions. Coming off an equal 3rd place finish at last year’s Siargao Cloud 9 Surfing Cup, Suryana is hungry to go one better and make the final this time around.

"I can't wait again to get back there,” Suryana said. “It’s such a good wave and it's a right hander. I love rights and especially barrels! I hope for more barrels again this year. Last year I finished in equal 3rd place. So, this year I need to be in the final! I'm coming Cloud 9!"

The 2014 Siargao Cloud 9 Surfing Cup will run from 24 - 28 September 2014 and boasts US$15,000 Prize Money, and will be run in conjunction with the Philippines Surfing Federation.

This year's surfing event is brought to you by the MVP Group of Companies and Manila Mining Corporation and organized by the Municipality of General Luna, Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte and the Philippine Surfing Federation (PSF) in cooperation with the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), Philippine Department of Tourism, Cloud 9 Boardriders Club and Fluid Surf. 

For more information, visit ASPWorldTour.com or send email to Philippine Surfing Federation at zenpallugna@yahoo.com.ph or pallugna_don@yahoo.com.  (by Tim Hain)

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Philippines' Cloud 9 surfing tourney becomes ASP Qualifying Series tournament

For more information, email us at zenpallugna@yahoo.com.ph or pallugna_don@yahoo.com.
Photo courtesy of Ronald Allan Chua of Karaga Republic.

This year's Siargao Cloud 9 Surfing Cup, slated to run in the Philippines this September 24-28, will be a historic event. It has been running for 20 years, but this fall will be the Cup's first to offer ASP Qualifying Series (QS) points. The contest event will now be co-sanctioned by both ASP QS and Asian Surfing Championship (ASC), giving competitors a unique opportunity to better their respective standings in each league.

Defending champion Putra Hermawan (IDN) is looking forward to competing in an even bigger event and taking full advantage of the chance to compete for both ASP QS and ASC points simultaneously.

"Surfing Cloud 9 is like surfing my home break, Lacerations, in Nusa Lembongan," Hermawan said. "Last year was my first time to surf at Cloud 9 and I'm so excited to go back there again."

With ASP heading to the break, local surfers like Osot Alcala (PHI) will have the chance to compete among some of the sport's top athletes in the world.

"The locals are super excited to have the ASP and ASC here at Cloud 9," Alcala said. "We want our chance to surf against some of the best and can’t wait until September."

Siargao's governor, Francisco T. Matugas, has been a driving force behind getting this event on the world stage. Along with offering more opportunity for the surfers, a QS rating is a chance for the region to put a spotlight on its waves and its talent.

Surfing continues to gain footing in Asia and the Siargao is another step up in the upward mobility of the sport there. The president of the Republic of the Philippines, Benigno S. Aquino III, plans to attend the opening ceremonies, a sign of the growing popularity of surfing in the country.

The ASP sanction will also create a huge draw for both regional and international of surfers, furthering the Asia Pacific region's standing as integral part of competitive surfing.

"I've been lucky enough to see Cloud 9 first-hand and it truly is one of the world's best waves," said Dane Jordan, ASP Australasia General Manager. "It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to make these events happen so I'd like to thank the people of the Philippines and everyone who's involved."

The 20th Annual Siargao Cloud 9 Surfing Cup will run from September 24 to 28, 2014 and it is brought to you by the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte, Municipality of General Luna and the Philippine Surfing Federation in cooperation with the MVP Group of Companies, Philex Mining, Fluid Surf and Cloud 9 Boardriders. (by Tim Hain, ASC)

About ASP

The Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) is the sole governing body of professional surfing. Crowning surfing’s undisputed world champions since 1976, the ASP sanctions the following tours: the ASP World Championship Tours (WCT), the ASP Qualification Series (QS), the Big Wave World Tour; the ASP World Longboard Championship (WLC) and the ASP World Junior Championship (WJC).

The ASP is dedicated to showcasing the world’s best surfers in the world’s best waves with the International organization supported by seven regional offices in Africa, Australasia, Europe, Hawaii, Japan, North America, and South America.

The ASP serves to celebrate and grow the history, elite athletes, diverse fans and dedicated partners that together embody professional surfing today.

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Siargao among Southeast Asia's '8 Ultimate Islands"

Sunset in Pilar, Siargao Island (Photo by: Zeny Pallugna)

General Luna, Siargao Island ---  After eighteen years of promoting Siargao as the Philippines' Surfing Capital, the Island is once again recognized by an international travel magazine as one of the southeast Asia's top tropical wonderlands. 

Travel+Leisure Southeast Asia has included Siargao Island in its list of "8 Ultimate Islands," describing it as a great place for "hanging ten," ABS-CBNnews.com said on its website.

"If you're going to Siargao, you'd best bring a surfboard. Curls of white foam are what lure most visitors to this southeast corner of the Philippines, to an island that defines laid-back," the magazine said on its website.

The rest of Travel+Leisure Southeast Asia's Ultimate Islands include Gili Air, Flores and Togean Islads Sulawest in Indonesia, Timor-Lester, Koh Phangan in Thailand, Kadavu Fiji, and Phu Quoc in Vietnam.

In June this year, Siargao, dubbed as the Philippines' Surfing Capital, has been named as the eighth best surf spot in the world by CNNGo, the travel website of the Cable News Network or CNN. Topping CNNGo's list of top surf spots in the world is Pipeline in Oahu, Hawii, which was described as "the daddy of all waves." (Source: ABS-CBNnews.com, September 9, 2012)

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Summer means SURFING in Siargao Island

Summer means SURFING as Siargao Island hosts this year's Siargao Girls International Summer Surfing Cup from May  1 to 4 and 14th Siargao National Surfing Cup from May 5 to 9.  

Women surfers from all over Asia will converge at Cloud 9 surf break in General Luna as they vie for the Php300,000 or approximately US$7,000 total prize-money. This is a historical landmark in the progression of Philippine surfing as it is the first time that Asian Surfing Championship [ASC] tour included Philippines in a multi-country, multi-event professional surfing competition circuit.  The ASC circuit will be held in five countries, namely: Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia, Thailand and now PHILIPPINES. 

  The ASC works with local, national and multinational event sponsors and organizers to maximize the results of the competitive surfing events towards accomplishing the goals of sharing the sport of surfing and bringing positive economic, social and environmental benefits to the people in these Asian countries.

Siargao Island is very fortunate to be chosen as venue of this ASC through the initiative of the Philippine Surfing Federation and General Luna Mayor Jaime Rusillon.

The ultimate goal of the ASC is to grow the sport of surfing in Asia from the grassroots level by assisting each country in creating organized and sanctioned events that will develop the skills of their surfers in healthy competition as well as to draw attention to their area for the progression of surfing locally, nationally, and throughout the Asian region.

As an ASC sanctioned event, it is expected to draw around forty surfers from Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia and Philippines. 

The 14th Siargao National Surfing Cup, on the other hand, is the inaugural event for the Philippine Surfing Championship tour [Part 3]. the tournament will take off in Siargao and travels to Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte in August, Guiuan in Eastern Samar in October, Lanuza in November and Cabugao in December [final leg]. This is a joint effort of the surfing destinations in the country to promote surfing as a sport and at the same time increase tourist arrivals to these emerging destinations. The top 12 junior [ages 21 years old and below] and senior [21 years old and above] Filipino surfers will be selected and they will have the opportunity to represent the country in the international surfing competitions and get surf companies to sponsor them as riders. They will also represent the country for the Billabong Pro-Junior event and 18th Siargao International Surfing Cup in September this year.

Mayor Rusillon announced that during the women's event,  the municipality will also be staging the General Luna Beach Volleyball Tournament from may 2-4. It will be held night and day at the beach area of Paseo de Cabuntog Boulevard. He said that this is the first time, this event is supported by the PSC or Philippine Sports Commission's Philippine Volleyball Association. According to him, PSC Commissioner Chito Loyzaga committed to send around teams for the tournament. this is another breakthrough to siargao as the 'beach volleyball destination' next to Boracay.

These events would not be possible without the full support of Surigao del Norte's working couple, Congressman Francisco "Lalo" Matugas and Governor Sol Matugas. These events have flourished over the years and brought several tourism benefits to the island.  These tourism benefits include: 1) made Siargao as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines and top 8th world surfing destination, 2) made Siargao as the Fishing Mecca in the Philippines, 3) based on the tourism statistics, the jobs and income generated from spending by visitors was approximately P1.5 billion (tourist receipts) and created more than 34 thousand jobs in 2010, 4) enticed more foreign and local investors, and 4) improved the island's infrastructure facilities from accommodation, road networks, seaports to aiports. Tourism infrastructure-related projects include:  Cloud Nine's wooden footbridge and tower, homestay program in Pilar, boat ramp in Pilar, Tourism Lounge and Cottages at Mangpopongko Beach, water system in Pilar, road network improvements, Sayak Airport expansion and the regular direct flight of Cebu Pacific from Cebu to Siargao four times a week.  

These surfing events are brought to you by the Office of the Congressman of the First District of Surigao del Norte, Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte, Local Government Unit of General Luna, Philippine Surfing Federation, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority and the Philippine Department of Tourism.

For more details of this event, please email us at zenpallugna@yahoo.com.ph or call/text at +639296721508 or visit www.travelwithzen.blogspot.com.

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Australia's Cooper Chapman claims Billabong Pro Junior Asia title

The inaugural Billabong Pro Junior Asia Champion Cooper Chapman celebrates his victory with his friends right after his action packed Finals over an Indonesian surfer Oney Anwar. (Photo by Dennis Ohashi)

Cooper Chapman, a young professional surfer from Australia,  took out the inaugural Billabong Pro Junior Asia title in an action packed Finals over an Indonesian surfer Oney Anwar last September 27, 2011 at "Cloud 8",   a new spot identified by the technical team of Association of Surfing Professionals or ASP.  With a new swell coming in from a different direction, the competition at Cloud 9 was forced to move down the reef to a spot referred to as Cloud 8.

The Billabong Pro Junior Asia Second Placer Oney Anwar of Indonesia poses with (L-R) Billabong Marketing Director Peter Thew, Surigao del Norte Governor Sol Matugas, and Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority General Manager Mark Lapid. (Photo by Loanne Guardo Huelma)

(L-R) The Father of Philippine Surfing, Mayor Jaime P. Rusillon proudly presents the winners of the inaugural Billabong Pro Junior Asia, namely: Cooper Chapman (Champion-Australia)  and One Anwar (First Runner-Up - Indonesia). The event was held at Cloud 9 from September 21 to 28, 2011. (Photo by Aye Navarro)

Third Placer Philmar Alipayo was the lone Filipino surfer who became one of the four finalists ofthe Billabong Pro Junior Asia. (Photo by Loanne Guardo Huelma)

Cloud 9 has finally carved its name in the world's surfing map as 64 best junior surfers from Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Philippines, United States of America and Indonesia joined in this year's Billabong's pro junior event.  

According to ASP Australia General Manager Dane Jordan, this was a landmark event for the region since this was the first time that ASP Australasia and Japan jointly sanctioned a professional surfing event in an iconic break like Cloud 9.  

The Billabong Pro Junior Asia presented by Sony Ericson, held last September 21 to 28, 2011,   was in partnership with the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte, Local Government Unit of General Luna, Department of Tourism, Tourism Infrastruction and Enterprise Zone Authority,  Philippine Surfing Federation, and ASP Austrailasia. Other sponsors include Air Asia, Nixon, and Von Zipper, San Miguel Corporations and Smart Communications.  

Tourism Undersecretary Maria Victoria Jasmin (Fushia Pink Blouse) and Surigao del Norte Governor Sol Matugas lead the ceremonial opening of the Billabong Pro Junior Asia together with General Luna Mayor Jaime Rusillon, Surigao del Norte Congressman Francisco Matugas, Billabong Philippines President Freddie Gonzales, Provincial Tourism Officer Ivonnie Beltran-Dumadag, Philippine Surfing Federation Secretary General Zeny Pallugna and other mayors and board members of the of Surigao del Norte.

Cloud 9's judging tower. 

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Tahitian surfer invades Cloud 9

Enrique Ariitu's foreign friends cheerfully congratulated him after winning the
 final rounds of the 17th Siargao International Surfing Cup last October 2, 2011.
(Photo by: Loanne Guardo Huelma)

A Tahitian surfer Enrique Ariitu showed both Filipino and foreign surfers including the spectators how Tahitians tube ride would be like and defeated the local surfer, Edito "Piso" Alcala in the final rounds of the 17^th Siargao International Surfing Cup. This sporting event, presented by Smart Communications, was held at Cloud 9 in General Luna, Siargao Island from September 29 to October 3, 2011. 

The winning smile of a young Tahitian surfer: Enrique Ariitu
 grabbed the 17th Siargao International Surfing Cup title.(Photo by: Loanne Guardo Huelma)

Ariitu who travelled for more than twenty hours from Tahiti (an island located in the South Pacific otherwise known as French Polynesia) to the Philippines was the first  Tahitian surfer who invaded Cloud 9.  He said that he loves the warmth and hospitality of the Filipinos and promises to be back in Siargao next year.

The tournament was attended by forty surfers from Australia, Indonesia, Tahiti, Japan, United States of America, and Philippines.   Oscar Scanes (Australia) and Martin Tanegra (Philippines) were in the equal third while Carlito Nogalo (Philippines), Todd Rosswell (USA), Arkipo Figuron (Philippines), and John Mark “Marama” Tokong (Philippines) were in the equal fifth. All the winners got a total prize-money of US$10,000 plus trophies. Alcala who was in the second place was chosen as the Best Filipino Surfer. 

The winners of the Smart 17th Siargao International Surfing Cup pose with the government officials (L-R, standing) General Luna Mayor Jaime Rusillon, Surigao del Norte Congressman Francisco Matugas,  Surigao del Norte Governor Sol Matugas, Department of Budget Secretary Butch Abad (the Guest of Honor), and Philippine Surfing Federation Secretary General Zeny Pallugna. 

The 17^th Siargao International Surfing Cup by Smart Communications was the Philippines’ longest-running surfing competition making the country popular among the world’s surfing arena and giving more opportunities to other surfing destinations in the country to be discovered or developed.    

The event would not be made possible without the support from the Local Government of General Luna, Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte, House of Representatives for the First District of Surigao del Norte, Department of Tourism, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, Philippine Surfing Federation and Smart Communications, Inc.  Other minor sponsors include San Miguel Corporation, Stoked, Inc., Fluidsurf, Coca-Cola Bottlers' Company and Nature Spring. 

(L-R) The Champion Enrique Ariitu (Tahiti) poses with Oscar canes (Australia) and Todd Rosswell (USA) at the awarding ceremony of the 17th SIargao International Surfing Cup.
(Photo by Loanne Guardo Huelma)

Second Placer Edito "Piso" Alcala receives his Best Filipino Surfer award from Surigao del Norte Congressman Francisco T. Matugas during the awarding ceremony of the 17th Siargao International Surfing Cup. (Photo by: Loanna Guardo Huelma)

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Ryan Gosling in Siargao, Philippines?

A rumor about Hollywood actor Ryan Gosling spotted surfing in Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte, Philippines is making the Twitter world abuzz right now. Even celebrities are tweeting about it.

"Just got a txt "Omgomgomgomgomg!!! Ryan Gosling is surfing in Siargao Island!"-800km southeast of Surigao del Norte. Is this truth or rumor?," beauty queen Ruffa Gutierrez posted.

"@iloveruffag I think I just died. Ryan Gosling is in Siargao Island? I'm booking a flight right now." "Eat Bulaga" host Isabelle Daza tweeted.

"Is it true? Ryan Gosling is here in the Philippines, surfing in Siargao?? #trueorfalse help!!!" Kapuso star Maxene Magalona said.

However, there has been no one who confirmed the report with a visual proof as of this writing.

"Ryan Gosling" has climbed to the second spot on the list of the most talked-about topics in the microblogging site at the moment,

Canadian actor and singer Ryan Gosling is best known for his role in the 2004 romantic film "The Notebook" which earned him four Teen Choice Awards and a MTV Movie Awards recognition. His other movies are "Half Nelson", "Drive", "Blue Valetine", "All Good Things" and many more.

(Source: http://noypistuff.blogspot.com/2011/12/ryan-gosling-in-siargao-philippines.html)

Who is Ryan Gosling?

Ryan Thomas Gosling (born November 12, 1980) is a Canadian actor and musician. He first came to public attention as a child star on the Disney Channel's Mickey Mouse Club (1993–95) and went on to appear in other family entertainment programmes including Are You Afraid of the Dark? (1995), Goosebumps (1996), Breaker High (1997–98) and Young Hercules (1998–99). His first serious role was as a fanatic Neo-Nazi in The Believer (2001), and he then built a reputation for playing misfits in independent films such as Murder by Numbers (2002), The Slaughter Rule (2002), The United States of Leland (2003) and Stay (2005).

He came to the attention of a wider audience in 2004 with a leading role in the romantic drama The Notebook, for which he won four Teen Choice Awards and an MTV Movie Award. His performance as a drug-addicted junior high school teacher in Half Nelson (2006) was nominated for an Academy Award and his appearance as a socially inept loner in Lars and the Real Girl (2007) was nominated for a Golden Globe Award. In 2007, he starred in courtroom thriller Fracture.

After a three-year acting hiatus, he starred in both Blue Valentine and All Good Things in 2010. The former performance as a frazzled husband earned him a second Golden Globe nomination. 2011 proved to be a landmark year for the actor as he appeared in three mainstream films: the romantic comedy Crazy, Stupid, Love, the thriller Drive and the political drama The Ides of March. He is due to appear in five upcoming films: the bank heist film The Place Beyond the Pines, the period crime feature The Gangster Squad, the revenge drama Only God Forgives, Terrence Malick's Lawless and a remake of the sci-fi film Logan's Run.

His band, Dead Man's Bones, released their self-titled debut album and toured North America in 2009. He is co-owner of Tagine, a Moroccan restaurant in Beverly Hills, California. He has had relationships with actors Sandra Bullock (2002–03) and Rachel McAdams (2005–08) and lives in New York City.

(Source: Wikipedia)

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Official Results of the 13th Siargao National Surfing Cup

Official Results of the 13th Siargao National Surfing Cup

Cloud 9, General Luna, Siargao Island, Philippines

September 17 - 20, 2011 

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How To Really Enjoy Your Vacation: 7 Tips

Vacations may be fun in the moment, but they don't have much lingering stress-reducing, or happiness-raising benefits, according to a study from the Netherlands, published the Journal Applied Research in Quality of Life.

According to the study, after the vacation, happiness quickly drops back to baseline levels for most people. Vacationers were no happier than those who hadn't taken off (as an aside, the greatest boost in happiness came from anticipating and planning the vacation). Post-vacation happiness was affected by how much stress or relaxation a traveler experienced on their vacation. If vacationers described their trip as neutral or stressful, there was no post-trip happiness benefit.

Vacations can reduce stress while you're away, and may improve your life over the long term if you allow yourself to relax. "Many people have epiphanies when they travel because they can view their life back home from a detached, outsider's view and give you a clearer sense of who you are and how you really want to live your life," says Bryan Robinson, Ph.D., author of Chained to the Desk: A Guidebook for Workaholics, their Partners and Children and the Clinicians Who Treat Them.

So how do you take a vacation, de-stress, and have the effects linger more than a day or two?

• Make sure it's relaxing: The only vacationers in the Netherlands study who saw a boost in happiness were those who reported feeling "very relaxed" on their vacation. If you're travelling with young kids (though it may be better not to), consider enrolling them in half-day camps or arranging for a babysitter in the evenings so you have time to relax.
• Create a vacation that fits your personal style. Think about what you love to do, not what you should do. Some people love thrill-seeking vacations, others love exploring and some love just lounging on the beach. If the vacation doesn't fit, it may increase, not lower stress.
• Balance activities. "Alternate your time between staying active and resting," says Robinson. Activity raises feel-good endorphins, while quieting your mind reduces levels of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.
• Take several mini vacations. Since the study showed that people get a mood boost out of planning and anticipating vacations, having several trips throughout the year may raise your overall happiness quotient higher than if you just have one vacation and then there's nothing to look forward to until next year.
• Take vacations during major holidays, such as the Fourth of July or in August, when many people are away and the workload is usually lighter, so you're less worried about work piling up while you're away.
• Delegate work before you leave. Since completely disconnecting from the office might be more stressful for some people, allow yourself to check voice mail and email under strict time limits, say one hour a day.
• Buffer your vacation. "Don't work right up until the moment you leave and head back to work right off the bat," says Robinson. "If possible, schedule an extra day off before you depart and another when you come back to dive back in slowly," he says.

source: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505125_162-48441331/how-to-really-enjoy-your-vacation-7-tips/

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Biyahe Tayo : Wow Philippines Biyahe Tayo Video and Lyrics

Artists: Lea Salonga, Sharon Cuneta, Freddie Aguilar, Rey Valera, Rico Puno, Joey Ayala, Apo Hiking Society, Ogie Alcasid, Janno Gibbs, Jolina Magdangal, April Boy Regino, Jessa Zaragoza, Paolo Santos, Nina and Rico Blanco of Rivermaya, John Lesaca, and Jong Cuenco


Biyahe Tayo Lyrics:

Ikaw ba’y nalulungkot
Naiinip, nababagot?
Ikaw ba’y napapagod
Araw gabi’y puro kayod?

Buhay mo ba’y walang saysay
Walang sigla, walang kulay?
Bawa’t araw ba’y pareho
Parang walang pagbabago?

Tara na, biyahe tayo
Kasama ang pamilya
Barkada at buong grupo
Para mag-enjoy nang todo.

Halika, biyahe tayo,
Nang ating makita
Ang ganda ng Pilipinas
Ang galing ng Pilipino.

Napasyal ka na ba
Sa Intramuros at Luneta
Palawan, Vigan at Batanes
Subic, Baguio at Rice Terraces?

Namasdan mo na ba
Ang mga vinta ng Zamboanga
Bulkang Taal, Bulkang Mayon
Beach ng Boracay at La Union?

Tara na, biyahe tayo
Mula Basco hanggang Jolo
Nang makilala ng husto
Ang ating kapwa-Pilipino.

Halika, biyahe tayo,
Nang ating makita
Ang ganda ng Pilipinas
Ang galing ng Pilipino.

From city to city,
Seven thousand and a hundred plus islas
Sa mahal kong Pilipinas
Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao ating puntahan.
Huwag maging dayuhan sa sariling bayan!

Nasubukan mo na bang
Mag-rapids sa Pagsanjan
Mag-diving sa Anilao
Mag-surfing sa Siargao?

Natikman mo na ba
Ang sisig ng Pampanga
Duriang Davao, Bangus Dagupan
Bicol Express at Lechong Balayan?

Tara na, biyahe tayo,
Nang makatulong kahit pano
Sa pag-unlad ng kabuhayan
Ng ating mga kababayan.

Halika, biyahe tayo,
Nang ating makita
Ang ganda ng Pilipinas
Ang galing ng Pilipino.

Nakisaya ka na ba
Sa Pahiyas at Masskara
Moriones at Ati-Atihan
Sinulog at Kadayawan?

Namiesta ka na ba
Sa Peñafrancia sa Naga
Umakyat sa Antipolo
Nagsayaw sa Obando?

Tara na, biyahe tayo
Upang ating matamo
Ligaya at pagkakaibigan
Kaunlaran, kapayapaan.

Halika, biyahe tayo,
Nang ating makita
Ang ganda ng Pilipinas
Ang galing ng Pilipino.

Tara na, biyahe tayo
Upang ating matamo
Ligaya at pagkakaibigan
Kaunlaran, kapayapaan.

Halika, biyahe tayo
Nang ating makita
Ang ganda ng Pilipinas
Ang galing ng Pilipino.

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Surigao Norte sees tourism growth

12/03/2011 - Citing the growing tourism opportunities, and also the notable potentials of the agriculture sector of the province of Surigao del Norte, the national government has approved the amount of P450,476,000 for the implementation of more infrastructure projects, especially the construction of roads and other related programs to be implemented next year.

To boost the tourism and agriculture sectors, the allocation of the budget is primarily intended for the construction of roads that will connect the various tourism areas, thus generating additional employment opportunities, livelihood prospects, and increased tax revenues that will benefit the villages in the province.

Because of this government support, the local government unit (LGU) officials expressed their heartfelt gratitude to President Aquino for providing the much-needed support for the development and progress of the province.

“Additional employment and livelihood will directly benefit the villagers,” said Representative Francisco T. Matugas (1st District, Surigao del Norte).

He said the infrastructure projects that are set for implementation early next year include the Dapa-General Luna Road, Santa Monica-San Isidro Road, Socorro-Nueva Estrella Pamosaingan Road, Cancohoy-Pilar Road, Osmeña-Pilar Road, improvement/concreting of the Dapa-Union General Luna Road, improvement/concreting the Osmeña-Pilar Road, construction of lighthouses along the Del Carmen Channel, installation of lanterns and lighting fixtures at the lighthouse in Santa Monica, construction of the Montserrat Port in Dapa, the Malimono Port, and Gigaquit Road.

Aside from the allocated budget, a total of P115 million was recently approved for this year’s last quarter budget for the province of Surigao del Norte.

“The funding release for this year’s last quarter budget is for our tourism sites in the province, especially on the Paradise Island of Siargao,” added Matugas, who deeply expressed his gratitude to the President for his full support of the province’s eco-tourism industry.

He added that Siargao Island is the home of international game fishing and surfing competitions, and also a tourist hub due to its white powdery sand beaches, and other tourist attractions.

He also said that the budget released for the last quarter for Siargao Island and the province include the following – P40 million for the concreting of the Maasin to Pilar Road, P30 million for the concreting of the junction of the Osmeña to Pilar Road, P20 million – concreting of the Dapa to Union Road, P15 million – flood control project from Dapa to General Luna, P5 million for the farm-to-market road from Santa Paz to Poblacion in San Isidro, and P5 million for the farm-to-market road from Maasin to Katipunan in Pilar town.

Matugas had a round-table meeting Monday with Public Works and Highways Region-13 Director Danilo E. Versola in Butuan City for the implementation of the said projects.

Meanwhile, President Aquino also approved, over the weekend, the release of P19.5 million for the provincial road improvement projects and library hubs in the province.

The budget allocation was personally received by Surigao del Norte Governor Sol F. Matugas.

“This is really a big boost to our economy, and we express our thanks to President Aquino,” said the governor. (Manila Bulletin)

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Boat capsizes off Siargao Island; 43 passengers rescued

11/05/2011 - A total of 43 passengers, including 11 crew members of a passenger boat, were rescued off the coastal waters of San Benito town in Siargao Island after their vessel capsized due to strong leaking of water coming from the freeboard on Tuesday morning, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

PNP Police Community Relations Officer P/Insp. Elsa Montenegro said that around 4:30 a.m., Oct. 25, motorbanca “Maricris” left the port of Sta. Monica en route to Surigao City. Upon reaching at the seawater of the municipality of San Benito around 5 a.m., one crew noticed a volume of water in the lower part of the boat.

“Attempts have been made to pump the water out of the boat but it failed until the boat sank on the seawater,” said Montegro.

The ill-fated motor banca, owned and operated by Maria Rose Lim, was skippered by B/Capt. Jerry Lim.

A report from Phil. Coast Guard (PCG) Surigao del Norte Station further revealed that the motorbanca was loaded with 320 sacks of copra.

The boat slowly submerged at the sea water while all passengers including the crew abandoned the boat wearing life jackets. According to the PCG report, all passengers were rescued by motorbanca Kimnet-1 and were brought to the port of Sta. Monica.

“All passengers and crew are in good health condition,” the PCG report added. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Science high school to rise in Siargao

10/19/2011 - GENERAL LUNA, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines – After years of waiting, a science high school will finally rise in this “paradise island” of Surigao del Norte.

The dream of parents, teachers and local officials came true when Budget Secretary Florencio Abad Jr. along with his wife Rep. Dina Abad, lead the groundbreaking ceremony for the General Luna Science High School Saturday.

Abad will be accompanied by Surigao del Norte Rep. Francisco T. Matugas (1st District), Gov. Sol F. Matugas and General Luna Mayor Peter Ruaya.

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released an initial P6.5 million for the General Luna Science High School.

The department also lined up and approved the construction of the P53-million provincial hospital in Barangay Sta. Cruz in Placer town, Surigao del Norte.

It was gathered that the construction of the provincial hospital in Placer is very vital since it will cater the medical needs of thousands of village communities along the southern part of the province.

By MIKE U. CRISMUNDO

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