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...

 

TERNO IN SAN FERNANDO
by Arvee Salazar

San Fernando is not known for parties. Instead, it is known for its colorful lanterns made of capiz, delicious tocino and longganisa and its beautiful women. For one eventful night, the movers and shakers of the city threw caution to the wind and got together to sing and dance the night away for El Circulo Fernandino's 84th Reception and Ball.

El Circulo Fernandino is considered the oldest social club in Pampanga. The group was formed in the 1920s as an exclusive club for the Kapampangan elite. But through the years, El Circulo Fernandino has evolved from a strictly social-status club into a socially involved organization that reaches out to help the less privileged Kapampangans.

The formal occasion was held at Mitsubishi-Carworld Showroom in the San Fernando-Olongapo Highway. Pampanga's top businessman Levy P. Laus and businesswoman Tess O. Chua led the celebration as El Circulo presidents for 2004. The affair also marked the 250th founding anniversary of San Fernando.

By 7 o?clock, the showroom's nicely decorated hall started to fill the beautiful people dressed in colorful terno, barong and Filipiniana gowns. Prominent personalities and San Fernando?s who's who attended the prestigious event.

Dinner was served before the main program began. The delicious meal was made more enjoyable with the upbeat and lively music of the Dixie Band. Guests couldn't help but groove and shake to the upbeat ballroom music.

The program was formally opened by Dr. Rey B. Aquino, mayor of San Fernando and honorary chairman of El Circulo. After his beautiful speech, the floor was opened for the symbolical dance rigodon de honor, which was performed by the officers and members of the prestigious organization.

If this year's success is any indication, then El Circulo Fernandino's shindig next year would definitely be an event to look forward to.