The Spring

The fire is crackling hot, the moon shines brightly. Teens were dancing with the music. I made my way with the swarm of sweaty bodies to where my group of friends are huddled over one bonfire. They were talking about something, and I am sure they were looking for me. As if on cue, Kylie called me.

"Nadia! There you are! and just in time." Kylie exclaimed, beaming with excitement.

I grunted. "What is it now?", I muttered. I slowly made my way to where they are.

I am Nadia and these are my friends.

Kylie. [Picture a girl beaming like the sun even in the moonlit sky and pause] My bestfriend in the world who is so the opposite of me. Since, we are completely the opposites, I don't know why I consider her as my best friend... maybe because among the group she is the only one who understands me.

That's Reno. [Picture a guy who eats as if there is no tomorrow and stops midway] He's a pig, at least that's what the group calls him and he seems to acknowledge the idea and loves it with a passion. He is a sensible person by the way. He is also more like Kylie. He understands me and understands everybody without judging them in any way.

Ravine. [Picture a girl grabbing a lipstick, looking at her image in the mirror and then stop] She's as hollow as a ravine. And, I'm not being mean. You say one thing to her trying slowly to let her get it and she replies completely out of the topic. Maybe, her mind wanders too fast and furious. But, she's a good dresser and has a big wardrobe like Imelda but not pricey because they are all from ukay-ukay and bargains.

Gen. [Picture a guy straining to read a book in the midst of loud noise and the dark sky and pause]. So his name is gay. Gener is his real name and he hates it. He prefers you call him Gen, eventhough it sounds so girly. Obviously, he is the geek and probably deep. But, all I hear him talk about everytime are stars and beetles.

They love to party till the wake of dawn. You might wonder how Gen would like it since he is obviously a geek. Well, he tags along with a book in hand but when he is not in the mood, he parties.

And, you might wonder why I am here since it is obvious I am not thrilled about partying with them. I love to party, that is when I am alone. No, I am kidding. I am only here for my friends who loves to call me K.J. when I know I am not. It's just my idea of fun is different from theirs. I go to their fun and try my best to enjoy it with their company, but do they go to mine? Noooooooooo. Definitely not. You know why? Because I don't invite them. I am a loner but I am not lonely. I just love to be with ME. Me and me alone.

Am I self-centered? No. I have a thing for.. wait.. I can't bore you with my lecture about being self-centered and loving oneself right?

"Where were you?" Kylie asked, without bothering to wait for a reply she went on, "Anyway, we have another wonderful outing idea!!!! And, I am sure you would love it!"

"Where? I've heard about that 'wonderful outing idea' of yours a dozen of times already and we always get stuck to parties as nonsensical as this!" I answered. "Sorry", that sounded harsh but a sorry would do the trick. "but this is not just my thing..." I added exasperately. I just have to let them know.

"Oh, we know that you are not having fun at these kind of parties at all and we are getting sick of it." Ravine said, cutting me off.

Now where did that come from? She is supposed to be hollow. Hollow as a wood. *knock knock*

"So, we decided to go to a place, where....", said Gen

"You would enjoy!", Reno continued.

"And what place would that be?", I asked, not too thrilled. Rolling my eyes and sitting beside Ravine.

Am I being too judgmental of my friends? Making them incapable of arranging a wonderful outing where we could spend lolling down a beach just the five of us? Well, I gave them a thousand and one chance to bring me someplace with water minus party people who drinks like there's no tomorrow and talking gibberish. And cheap, by the way. But, no. They bring me to places like this with teenies partying where you can't even tone down the volume.

So, you might really think I am such a big loser avoiding noise and the crowd and all. But, what I mean is that, it's totally O.k. to party in these kind of places - if - my friends just balance it out. There's a time for these kind of outings and a time for my kind-of-outing. And, I want my kind-of-outing NOW!

"You have to guess, and if you guessed it right... the third time... we go there! If not, we don't." Kylie announced.

I rolled my eyes once again. It's amazing, how it can stay in my socket and stand my rolling around and around and that my muscles and nerves never wears out. Sometimes, I feel it might not return to normal and I would be cross-eyed for the rest of my life.

This game. This game is so just like Kylie. She loves to play games. And, I do hope it doesn't turn around and be inhumane like what Jigsaw did when he got Cancer and he suddenly wants to test the human fiber.

"This is my only chance to be on an outing I want and you want me to play a game that gives me a 50/50 chance over getting the answers right" I said. "Great, just great."

"Come on. Guess..", said Ravine, completely ignoring my sentiments.

"Give me clues! At least." I said.

"Right, ok... Hmm...", Gen said, trying to give out a clue that would not be a complete giveaway but of course not some far-off clue. "It's a very cold place....."

"up in the mountains... and it has water!!!", Ravine continued beaming with excitement, completely unaware of daggerlike-eyes of Gen, Kylie and Reno. "Go on, go on answer it!"

"Awww, Ravine. You don't have to totally give it away..", Kylie said exasperated. "Alright, enough games. It's a spring. A cold spring. No people around. Just us and nature. Happy?"

"A spring?", I asked incredulously as if I heard the word for the first time.

Kapayapaan

Happy 76th Hunger Games!! errrm este Happy 76th Araw ng Dabaw!

Our theme for the year is: Kapayapaan.

When I arrived last night from a weeklong trip in Cebu-Bohol, I was excited to see my vibrant city amidst all the lights flickering from above the plane. I can't help but notice they all looked like that cardboard boxes/model houses architects make.

As we were heading home, most of the streets were alive and throngs of people are out partying in the streets. And the usual restaurants who would've been occasionally not that "full" is now suddenly filled with a whole lot of people and cars were just all around. The city has awakened and the party is in full swing.

Here's a list of the schedule: Schedule for 76th Araw ng Davao

Till here!

Enjoy the festivities if you are in town!! :)

Madayaw!!!

Photo Source: Silaab Dabaw

Who will run for the Senate this 2013?

There are 32 individuals running for Senate:

1.       Ricardo Penson (independent)
2.       Samson Alcantara (Social Justice Society)
3.       Greco Antonious Beda Belgica (Democratic Party of the Philippines)
4.       Baldomero Falcone (Democratic Party of the Philippines)
5.       Christian Señeres(Democratic Party of the Philippines)
6.       Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV
7.       Former Las Pinas City Rep. Cynthia Villar
8.       Former Akbayan Rep. Ana Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros-Baraquel 
9.       Former Senator Maria Ana Consuelo “Jamby” Madrigal
10.   Former Senator Ramon Magsaysay Jr
11.   Aurora Rep. Juan Edgardo Angara
12.   Senator Alan Peter Cayetano
13.   Senator Antonio Trillanes IV
14.   Senator Aquilino Martin Pimentel 3rd
15.   Maria Lourdes Nancy Binay
16.   Margarita “Tin-Tin” Cojuangco, 
17.   Former Senator Richard “Dick” Gordon, 
18.   Former Senator Ernesto Maceda
19.   Former Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri
20.   San Juan City Rep. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito
21.   Zambales Rep. Maria Milagros “Mitos” Magsaysay 
22.   Cagayan Rep. Juan Ponce “Jack” Enrile Jr.
23.   Senator Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan,
24.   Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) chair Grace Poe-Llamanzares
25.   Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero
26.   Senator Loren Legarda
27.   John Carlos De Los Reyes
28.   Marwil Llasos 
29.   Rizalito David 
30.   Former Philippine Constabulary chief Ramon Montaño
31.   Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward Hagedorn 
32.   Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Teodoro “Teddy” Casiño

Gah. What a Long list! Haha. Will try to see what their platforms are, and note their promises. :P  That is if I have the time! HAHA. I should right? Since it is our country? But, well, I just wanna see who we will have. :) So, if you have suggestions feel free to write below :) 

List from Yahoo! Philippines

Liwanag is Here.

It has been days since Liwanag World Festival ended... but we all know, it is the beginning of something bigger as we have tapped into a larger field. We have garnered enough media attention, to keep the ball rolling.

I'm getting feedback that the whole event was "too much" for the common mind to understand. It seems like people are so used to being in one box that people would try to label and box the event as "environmental", but, no wait... we have politics too... so we are also in that box. And we have the artists which showcased the whole Filipino culture... and there were business people too, the visual artists were there, techie people were behind the whole event as well. So, what is Liwanag? it seems like a ball of many things.... that in order for you to really understand it... you have to experience it. Not just by being in the event... but by getting to know the organizers, the supporters, the people behind the whole thing.

people can't seem to fathom the idea that... in order for us to create SUSTAINABLE CITIES or SOCIETIES we have to gather all the dimensions that would make it so. In our case.. we have identified 7 areas. [ human development, spiritual, ecological, economical, political, societal, cultural ] 

We have showcased all 7 in one event... and that confuses people... because when you make events.. you have to create a certain niche. Yes, i know. But, the event was meant to thread everything together. :) 

But to those who took the risk.. albeit the confusion, the curious, the believers, the visionaries and the revolutionaries.... they would all shook their heads if you missed the event.... many partnerships were being discussed, and future projects are being made.... 

there's more work to be done... but the message during the event was really this: "inner change" comes first..... everyone understood that.

Why Padyak?

Where did it all begin?

"The summer of 2012 was when an explanation, about why we are known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient Seas’, was heard by a group of new found friends in M.I.S.S.I.O.N[Movement of Imaginals towards Sustainable Societies through Initiatives, Organizing, and Networking]. It was said that there was a string of lighthouses all over the Philippine Islands that was like a string of glowing pearls for the mariners of more ancient days. It was also during that summer where, when a group of new found
friends talking about an upcoming festival of light, the first seed of meaning for a bike pilgrimage stringing beads of light all over our beloved country was first brought forth. Activating the entire Philippines with light and meaning indeed is a deeply meaningful thing to do. To also do it to support a festival that highlights the seven dimensions of sustainability that you are working hard to bring about it in the world is a very, very nice bonus." - by  Nicolas Amando Solana III

13 days to Liwanag

Knowing is not enough, we must apply. Willing is not enough, we must do. - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Padyak at Liwanag

Transcripts of Messages from Kuya Jude:

Jan.9: 5:28AM - "Dia na mi karon sa Villasis in a GK site named "Namnama" (Hope). Kahapon pala may nanganak dito, the husband's name is Salvador. And we were received as the 3 magis on bikes. I could not help but notice how providence lead us day by day.  Last sunday we were in Laoag (light) and it's Epiphany Sunday pa - a feast that celebrate Jesus as Light of the world. Whew, its really awe-inspiring. DISGUSTING*!! as Nick would describe it" 

*DISGUSTING - is a MISSION term coined by Nic Perlas as "amazing,stupendous, unbelievable".

Jan 11:
5:37am - Val and I will be staying for another night in QC. Bukas 4am kami magpapatuloy sa Batangas City. Felcon will bike ahead this afternoon. Today we will be meeting with Joey Ayala during breakfast. Lunch with Fr. Pics and in the afternoon with Tony Meloto. We will recalibrate schedule today and upload pictures. 
 
11:54am- Just finished tupi session with Joey Ayala at Tandang Sora, QC. Going to Intramuros to meet Fr. Pics, the biking priest... on commuting mode. Will share pix this afternoon.

Jan. 12: "3:30 pm Text from Jude: left 7am from Joey Ayala's house, Tandang Sora. Fr. Pics guided us from the exit of C5 until Nuvali, Laguna. Here now at Makiling Elem School. Rest 5 minutes. Wish to arrive to Batangas City Port by 7:30pm"

8:30pm: Touchdown Batangas City.

Jan. 13: "We have already finished the whole Luzon (Jan2 treck to Cape Engano Lighthouse. Jan3 Sta. Ana to Aparri. Jan4 Aparri to Sta. Praxedes. Jan5 to Laoag via Pagudpud, Bangui. Jan6 to Vigan. Jan7 to Baguio. Jan8 to Villasis, Pangasinan. Jan9 to QC Circle. We met with excellent bike citizens Papa Denz, TIna and the rest of the members of Folding Bike Pilipinas and the Firefly Brigade. Jan10 Ikot Liwanag, we visited Light Bearers Joey Ayala, Father Picz and Tony Meloto. Jan 11 Tandang Sora to Batangas City. We rode to Caticlan. Today we start our Visayas pilgrimage. As I try to look back, I was amazed at how things evolved, transformed and unfolded. I now see that all these were realized with the help and support of everybody, a Bayanihan in action. I was amazed by how persons, events, things would pop up. Amazed by the level of sincerity, warmth of friendship we receieved. These have energized and made us go on. Nicanor Perlas Movement of Imaginals (MISSION) Firefly Brigade-Philippines We Want Bike Lanes in RP Movement Cycle For Life."

More snippets soon!!

They inspire me and gives me goosebumps as I imagine what they are doing!! Huwaw

Padyak Tungo sa Liwanag 2013

As I post this blog, Kuya Jude, Kuya Falcon(Bayawan, Dumaguete) and Valerie (Baguio) is probably on the way to Batangas City from Manila on their 11th Day of biking for Liwanag of their 24day sojourn!

What's the gist? (Padyak Tungo sa Liwanag 2013)

Padyak tungo sa Liwanag 2013, a bicycle pilgrimage all over the country from Palaui Island, Sta. Ana,Cagayan to Davao City (Jan 2-Jan 29,2013). Its the personal way of carrying the ideals of Liwanag Worldfest 2013 for creativity and sustainability. Please join us as we string beads of light all over the Philippines. 

The plan is for biker friends to meet them along the way, and bike with them till whatever part of the Philippines or bike all the way to Davao!!!

What's amazing is, they will visit various historical sites very important in the Philippine history and also to light candles at lighthouses stationed along the Philippines.

more updates.. of their whereabouts soon!

Here is the itinerary they have: 

Place	Est. Dist (km)	Days Travel	Date
Dumaguete to Manila*		1	30-Dec
Manila-Palaui*		2	31-Dec
Palaui Island to		1	1-Jan
Sta Ana to Aparri	130.00	1	2-Jan
Aparri to Claveria	90.00
Claveria to Laoag City	90.00	1	3-Jan
Laoag City to Vigan City	100.00
Vigan to San Fernando City	140.00	1	4-Jan
San Fernando to Baguio City	75.00	1	5-Jan
Baguio to Dagupan	100.00	0.5	7-Jan
Dagupan to Tarlac City	100.00	0.5
Tarlac City to Manila	120.00	1	8-Jan	Via  Anggat, Bulacan (Enchanted Farm)
Manila to Batangas City	150.00	1	9-Jan
Batangas City to Caticlan	2go leaves at 9pm	arrives at 6am the next day
Caticlan to Culasi	100.00	0.5	10-Jan
Culasi to Sn Jose de Buenavista	120.00	0.5
Sn Jose de Buenavista to Ilo2	100.00	1	11-Jan
Iloilo to Guimaras
McArthur’s Wharf to Tumanda Wharf	45.00
Pulupandan Wharf to Kabankalan	75.00	1	13-Jan
Kabankalan to Mabinay	60.00	0.5
Mabinay to Bayawan	60.00	1	14-Jan
Bayawan to Dumaguete	100.00	2	19-Jan
Dumaguete to Santander
Santander to Cebu City	135.00	1	20-Jan
Cebu to Cagayan			21-Jan
Cagayan to Davao	298.00	3	22-Jan
Davao	150.00	5	26-Jan
	2,502 Km	24 days

WILD 2013

HAPPY 2013!

It's a WILD 2013

Wonderfully Interesting Love-filled Days!!!

i'm excited for this year!!!

Woot.

Davao City hosts global convergence in 2013

An impressive line-up of world-renowned movers in the different spheres of society will be featured in the upcoming Liwanag World Festival on Creativity and Sustainability happening exactly a month from now. The Festival, taking place from January 29 to February 2, 2013 at the Philippine Women’s College of Davao, builds upon the outstanding achievements and reputation of the first two national Karangalan Conferences held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 2005 and 2006. Karangalan highlighted the global and national achievements of Filipinos in many areas of life. More than 5000 people, including visitors from other countries, attended these two conferences.

The Liwanag Festival is now taking this success, giving it a new context and making it relevant to the second decade of the 21st Century—providing groups and individuals a creative space and opportunity to come together and share solutions to societal problems confronting us such as climate change, poverty, conflict, unequal distribution of wealth, lack of access to quality and responsive education, lack of livelihood opportunities, inadequate shelter, poor physiological and psychological health, unsustainable development practices, cultural decline, apathy, cynicism, and more. As part of this process, the proponents decided to locate the Festival in Davao City, being a city that is moving towards sustainability, having great leadership and a good track record (e.g. known for its Gender Development Code, Children Welfare Code, Firecracker Ban, No Smoking Ordinance, our own 911 emergency system, among other trailblazing practices).

Some of the topics and speakers in Liwanag are:

“Global impact and message of the Occupy Wallstreet Movement” Seth Jordan, co-founder and co-initiator of Think Outward and Occupy Wallstreet

“Revolutionary Discoveries in the Science of the Heart and Its Relevance to Creativity and Societal Sustainability” Bruce Cryer, Global Director of Heart Math Health Care, a technique created to help people decrease their stress levels and increase their quality of life.

“The New Story of the Universe and the Future of Humanity” Barbara Max Hubbard, President, Foundation for Conscious Evolution

Alongside these guest speakers are Philippines’ own leaders: Maria Ressa, high profile journalist and CEO of Rappler, will elaborate on The Strategic Importance of Independent Media in Sustainable Societies. For civil society, the powerhouse group of Dr. Alyssa Peleo-Alampay, Geologist, Dr. Laura David, Oceanographer, and Dr. Cora Claudio, Environmental Scientist—members of Ten Outstanding Women in the Nations Service (TOWNS) Team on Climate Change will help participants gain a deeper understanding of Climate Change and its impact on humanity. For the economic sphere, Ms. Gina Lopez, Executive Director of ABS-CBN Foundation, will encourage participants to follow their example in Mobilizing Business to Defend Nature; Mr. Tony Meloto, Founder of GK-Center for Social Innovation will likewise share how they Reinvented Philippine Agriculture through Social Enterprise. For the cultural sphere, Surallah Mayor Romulo Solivio, with Sculptor-Artist Kublai Millan, will share their experience onGovernment and Civil Society partnerships for the Rebirth of Culture.

Most importantly, a multi-stakeholder panel from Bayawan City will present Character First: The Liwanag Anchor of Bayawan City's Journey to Sustainability. Bayawan City, two hours away from Dumaguete,  Negros Oriental, boasts the title of being a “Character City,” a member of the International Association of Character Cities and a pioneer Department of Health certified “Healthy City” in the Philippines. Recently, it was recognized by the Asian Institute of Management city as “one of the Top 10 Best Cities to Live In in the Philippines (Small Cities Category)” under its Competitive Cities Survey 2007.

With this festival, the proponents want to emphasize that creativity and sustainability initiatives are alive, healthy and well, not only in Davao City but also in other parts of the country, and, of course, the world. Aside from the plenary presentations, hundreds of pre-registered as well as spontaneous parallel creative workshops, performances and exhibits will be taking place during the entire week, featuring participating individuals and initiatives with inspiring and innovative solutions to current challenges; local, national and international artists such as Joey Ayala (who also composed and performed the official Liwanag Festival theme song); ritualists from different tribes of Mindanao; Bayang Barrios; the Talaandig Artists of Bukidnon; performing artist-activist Juana Change; Sampsa Pirtola from Europe; Hinuguyaw Cultral Dance Troupe; Kaliwat Theatre Collective; Madayaw Cultural Troupe; Bayanihan Dancers, and other surprise artists.

“Two faces of the Philippines, two faces of the world mirrored in two forms of life. On one side, dense darkness amidst suffering and strivings. But on the distant road ahead are pulsing balls of light, like torches blazing trails of Hope – initiatives of some groups of humans in vigil for the herald of a new tomorrow. Brothers and Sisters, Let us glory on these strivings to change the face of the World.”

-The essence of Liwanag Festival on Sustainability and Creativity, as captured in words by Davao-based Palanca awardee Don Pagusara

Liwanag World Festival is initiated by the Movement of Imaginals for Sustainable Societies through Initiatives, Organizing and Networking (www.imaginalmission.net), supported by the Lifebank Foundation, Inc. a microfinance institution providing financial opportunities for the poor, specifically women. For more details about Liwanag World Festival and how to join, log on to www.liwanagworldfest.net. You may also contact Liwanag Secretariat through email: lwfdavao@gmail.com, landline: +6382.286.726, or visit us at: Door A6 2nd Floor, Lakitan Mall San Pedro St., Davao City, Phils. Look for Lilli Arellano 0918.914.1047, Melma Abasolo 0922.832.3244 or Nick Solana 0918.520.1400. 

Another Affair

I've noticed the trending in Filipino movies about infidelity, lately.

At first came in, No Other Woman. And though, I hate to say it, I watched this with my Tita who really wants to watch it with me. You see, she's from a province and it was a rare request, and so I just tagged along. It happened. But, it had a good ending. I guess, I felt it was kinda okay.

Then came..... A Secret Afair. Okaaaaaay. Then... The Mistress.......

What are they teaching kids now?

Movies reflect our culture. Seems like our culture when it comes to commitment....  is slowly going down the drain.

I know probably its all about money..... since I heard: "No Other Woman" earned a lot and is prolly one of the highest grossing films from last year.... (and yeah, I was responsible for 3 seats that time).

But, but, but, oh welll....... just airing this out. I know.. to each his own... and its quiet sad to see, it's slowly probably becoming a "norm".  But, is normal.... really healthy?

And we all know.... that when it hits mainstream... and everybody is doing it..... well, who cares?

Ok, wait till I have myself an affair. And I'll say what's on the other end. But, I clearly know how it feels like being on the receiving end. And it sucks.

Either way, the people on the other end.... will either do the same thing out of revenge, like the one in "The Mistress".... or.... the person will go through his journey of aches and pains... of never wanting to commit na. But, that's life right? It can't all be rosy and rainbows.....

Anyway, this will give more jobs and money  to psychologists, counselors, marriage advisor.... and booze , motels, hotels, make-ups, clothes, plastic surgeries, weight loss products...  etc.

Note: These are just my ideas, opinions and reflections. Nothing against people into secret affairs... because once again.... "to each his own". I'm just concerned, how this will be in the future.

What is LIWANAG to you?

One of my visions for our country, the Philippines is coming true!

And I'm getting the first had experience.

I've always dreamed of inviting people I admire and who inspires me, be they authors, inspirational speakers, or simply doing a great job in creating changes and giving solutions to global challenges!

I remember talking about that dream with Ate M. some two years ago, and I never thought... it would go this way! and something grand!

Anyway... me and my Imaginal friends in MISSION are organizing Liwanag World Festival on Creativity and Sustainability this coming January 29 to February 2, 2012. :)

To start the conversations of humanity..... let me ask this question:

"What is Liwanag to you?"

Please enter your full name or screen name :P
Name - Field/Company/Advocacy

We might just include your answer in our Facebook Page: Liwanag WorldFest, Inc.

TRANSITIONS - Eurythmy Tour

If music and words could be seen, what would it be like?

If letters, words, verses, and geometrical forms could be moved, what would it be like?

 
Don't miss this Eurythymy Tour!! 

 

TRANSITIONS

Performed by the Arte Nova Insitut Eurythmy Youth Ensemble and Tanja Baumgartner.

A first time performance in Asia following a recent debut at the Goetheanum in Dornach, Switzerland.

Date : Friday, October 12, 2012
Venue : Davao Convention Center, F. Torres St., Davao City

GALA

Time : 7:00 PM
Ticket Prices : Php400.00
Php200.00

----------------------

MATINEE for students*

Time : 3:00 PM
Ticket Prices : Php100.00

*In cooperation with various schools and colleges in Davao City



**Please be at the venue at least 30 minutes before show time.

**FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED

For ticket sales and reservations, please contact :

Maya : 0908 153 5326 (smart) and 0922 893 8370 (sun) 
Lorie : 0917 322 9009 (globe) and 295-3633 (landline)

 

You can also contact me.... because I have some tickets too. 

 

Let us support Tuburan Institute, Inc. Our non-stock, non-profit Steiner-Waldorf inspired school. :) 

Ikepono Seminar in Manila

Ike Pono is coming to Manila on October 19,20,21 & 26,27,28 (6Days -2 weekends) 

Venue at the 3rd Flr Red Cross Rizal Chapter, Shaw Blvd., Pasig City 

For more details text or call 0915-2037480 (globe).

Or just message me here, so I can give your number/details to the organizers in Manila.

I just attended Ikepono here in Davao... (we are on our second weekend), first day and you feel that is already worth what you paid!

Absolutely Lovely Workshop! :)

Open Letter to Save Davao Shrine Hills

Background of why we need to Save Davao Shrine Hills... please check the website: Save Davao Shrine Hills 

PLEASE SIGN THE ONLINE PETITON: Save Davao Shrine Hills 

July 24, 2012

An open letter to all councilors of the 16^th City Council of Davao City

Dear councilors,

“Do not doubt the power of thoughtful, committed citizens to change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever did.” These were the words of cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead in the 1970s. They still reverberate around the globe in places, for instance, where powerful transnational companies wreaking havoc on biodiversity and humanity are being successfully opposed by a handful of determined individuals. Nothing is impossible because everywhere, government, business, and civil society are working together to create a better world. Just look at the wonderful success stories of green cities like Portland (America), Curritiba (Brazil), Malmo (Sweden), Barcelona (Spain), Melbourn (Australia), Bogota (Colombia), Copenhagen (Denmark), Vancouver (Canada), and Reykjavic (Iceland)!

In Davao City, it’s been 6 years since the dynamic team of Barangay Maa Federation of Homeowner Associations started going to the Sangguniang Panglungsod to ask councilors to Save Davao Shrine Hills. Today the campaign has evolved into saving Davao Shrine Hills by turning it into a nature park. We from the global Movement of Imaginals for Sustainable Societies through Initiatives, Organizing, and Networking (MISSION) fully support this wonderful turn of events.

More than 8,000 signatures have been gathered from Davaoenos who want to turn Davao Shrine Hills into a nature park. More support is pouring in. Add to this the political will of Davao City councilors who banned smoking in public places, banned plastic bags in the market and malls, created a bicycle lane ordinance, stopped aerial spraying in banana plantations, and numerous other LGU projects big and small. The spotlight is now on the campaign to turn Davao Shrine Hills into a nature park and the political will of the 24 councilors to stand firm and be united to see it brought to fruition despite all the money already poured in by developers to build subdivisions on Davao Shrine Hills. Despite landowners there wanting to build houses on the dangerous slopes or sell their plots of land!

The Environmental Watch Committee’s beautiful comprehensive powerpoint last July 23, 2012 says it all: there are too many advantages of creating a vast nature park in the middle of Davao City! What are we waiting for? Our children today know far too much about malls, about television shows, and about computer games. Our children today stay at home too much and are far too clean, too careful, too timid, too afraid to try new things, to get dirty, to explore new relationships with other children who look different from them, who speak a different language, and who think and behave differently. A nature park in Davao City will make a big difference in children’s lives for sure. Political will.

Just imagine a nature park in the city – with indigenous trees, flowers, birds, and insects – that doesn’t forbid children to climb and explore, to crawl and examine, to walk and lie down on the grass, to be quiet and mull over the mystery of the sky, to close their eyes and listen to birdsong, to play hide and seek and tag and patintero with all their might, to laugh out loud till it hurts, to shriek in surprise again and again and again, to unabashedly shout for joy! Children need a nature park in the city where they can go on picnics and read without their thoughts being drowned out by loud music over a PA system. Children need a nature park in the city to go bird watching and bike around, and gather under the trees, between the flowers, surrounded by butterflies to talk about their purpose for existing. Political will.

The timing is perfect to turn Davao Shrine Hills into a nature park. This January 29 – February 2, 2013 there will be a Liwanag World Festival on Sustainability and Creativity right here in Davao City that will gather the best of the world’s most sustainable initiatives in governance, in education, in science, in business, and so on. Thousands of Filipinos and visitors from abroad will meet in Davao City to be inspired by each other’s sustainable initiatives whose flames they’ll bring back to their own communities and light up the Philippines and the world. Wouldn’t it be fantastic if the Liwanag World Festival on Sustainability and Creativity will be held in a city that is striving to be a sustainable city in the truest sense of the word ?

Respectfully yours,

Maya Vandenbroeck

Kate Estember

Tina Suelto

Darlene Suelto

Leo Avila

Melma Abasolo

Gina Cembrano

Monica Ayala

Arjun Marapon

Ellen Trazo

Art Suelto

Neng Suelto

Paolo Suelto

Rhon delos Santos