MALOLOS MANSION
The town of Guiguinto in Bulacan is known for its simplicity. Though relatively close to Manila, the town still was able to maintain its rural way of living. But amidst this quaint town is an abode like no other.

The Bonnga's house looks intriguing even on the outside. It is not the typical residence you would have seen in a town like this. Its gate, made of wood, looks more at home in a house from the Spanish Era. A large bell and water pump, worn with age, decorate the front lawn. read more...

TANGING INA
I had reservations in watching Tanging Ina. Even if I know for a fact that it' s the top Filipino film, grossing Php155 million in its first four-week of theatrical run, it is still not on my movie list. Afterall, I grew up with a notion that Filipino films are either corny or baduy, thanks to bad (and almost always bold) Filipino movies shown and produced while I was growing up. But Tanging Ina is an intriguing movie right from the start. With a title that sounds like a Tagalog swear word, it has piqued the interest of the people enough to lead them to the movie houses to watch it. read more...

 

MALOLOS MANSION
by Arvee Salazar

The town of Guiguinto in Bulacan is known for its simplicity. Though relatively close to Manila, the town still was able to maintain its rural way of living. But amidst this quaint town is an abode like no other.

The Bonnga's house looks intriguing even on the outside. It is not the typical residence you would have seen in a town like this. Its gate, made of wood, looks more at home in a house from the Spanish Era. A large bell and water pump, worn with age, decorate the front lawn.

Stepping inside the premises is another experience. A miniature waterfall is set near a wooden gazebo, creating a cool and refreshing feeling. The rushing sound of the water is very calming and therapeutic. The plants and trees, untamed and uncut, give the impression that you are in a forest clearing rather than a garden.

Entering the home is like being transported into another era. All furnitures are made of indigenous materials - wood, abaca or grass. Surrounded by all these, you'll feel as if you're inside a museum and that everything is an important part of history.

'I really like antiques,' said Dra. Cacay Bongga, the proud owner, who also decorated the house. 'My husband together with an architect designed the house. I'm okay with any design as long as it can have the feeling of oldness. I also want my house to have the feeling of old Filipino that's why I decorated it with old furniture with Filipino designs.'

Sticking with the old Filipino concept, Cacay decorated their walls with Filipino-themed paintings by famous local artists.. The one which really stood out was made by Cris V. Velasco, a Bulake?o, in 2001. He made a replica of a typical Spanish house using wood and other materials. Cacay bought it the minute she saw it. 'it's very unique. I really fell in love with it.' she says.

After touring the Bongga house, one will feel nostalgic and nationalistic. It's like seeing a piece of Filipino history unfold before your eyes.