Category Archives: Arts

June 3, 2012

ANP’s Silver Tiangge Coffee Table Book: A Negrense Must Have

By Mark Mayo - Magallanes

Inset: Foreword page of ANP’s coffee table book “Silver Tiangge”

The foreword Carmen Guerrero Nakpil in the coffee table book Silver Tiangge must have been by itself an ample introduction to the Negros Trade Fair and the Association of Negros Producers. Last year, I was given a privilege through ANP Vice-President for Media Jojo Vito to be part of the 26th Negros Trade Fair held in the semi-permanent location at Rockwell Tent. The event resulted to eight blog entries (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8), new friends and new experiences. Too bad I was not able to join the 25th Negros Trade Fair which was the best one so far but the essence of the celebration is captured in Silver Tiangge.

Inset: Featured is the kitchen exhibit at the Balay Negrense Museum

What is Silver Tiangge? That is the coffee table book produced by the Association of Negros Producers for the occassion of the 25th Year of Negros Trade Fair in Manila. You see, Negros Trade Fair is the longest provincial trade fair that has been running consistently that has breached a decade and an amazing feat it would that it would soon breach third decade. “Tiangge” in Silver Tiangge does not come from the Tagalog term but rather from the Hiligaynon term which means a “sari-sari“ or variety store. Indeed, from a small series of booths in SM Megamall, it expanded to include over fifty enterprises now.

Inset: Silver Tiangge’s Table of Contents

While the 25th Negros Trade Fair has long passed, the  Silver Tiangge is still in publication. Ms. Teena Gacho Rodriguez from the Association of Negros Producers reached me last week that there are more stocks available. This coffee table book is actually a must have for Negrense homes since it details not only details the products from ANP Showroom and the Negros Trade Fair but the evolution of Negrense industry that was forced to diversify due to the fall of the sugar industry in the Marcos regime. What was then as a means of extra income for sacadas has become a multi-million dollar export industry.

Inset: Various kakanin, sweets and coffee from Negros Island

Even with sugar‘s dominance since the late Spanish Era leading to the short-lived Republic of Negros, these industries found their roots in the countryside with Negrenses utilizing whatever resources they have to produce new products for consumption. A few of them like furniture-making dates back to the time when hacienderos would commission copies of furniture designs they have come across palaces of Europe, while foods like Bas-oy and Cansi were Negrense food innovations at a time when the poor was limited to scrap meats and innards. Soon enough, even the hacienderos caught on the taste and ate them too.

Inset: More food articles inside the coffee table book Silver Tiangge

Interesting, isn’t it? Association of Negros Producers has slashed down prices of the coffee table book to P1,500 which is very much affordable for a piece of Negrense history that every Negrense home in Negros Island and Beyond must have. The book is available in the ANP Negros Showroom Main at Lourdes Center in 9th cor. Lacson Streets, Bacolod City or at their branch at Central Citywalk in Robinson’s Bacolod, just look for Teena Gacho-Rodriguez or staff to purchase one.

Leave a comment   |  tags: , , , , , , , , | posted in Arts, Arts, Culture, Culture, Fashion, Fashion, Food, Food, History, History, Interior Design, Interior Design, Lifestyle, Lifestyle, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, The Bread Rolls

May 25, 2012

PUREZA, The Story of Negros Sugar: The Manila Premiere

By Mark Mayo - Magallanes

I can finally say I did it! Fresh from my Dagupan trip witnessing the swimming competition at Palarong Pambansa, I made my way though heavy rain to reach Fullybooked in Bonifacio High Street. Nope, I was not there to buy a newly-release novel or even buy a comic book but rather to watch one of the most controversial documentaries of the present – PUREZA, The Story of Negros Sugar. With barely a second since the documentary started, I was “forced” to sit a couple of seats away from DepEd Sec. Br. Armin Luistro FSC with notables in film and media. The number of people, especially from the blogosphere, was testament to the fact that people outside Negros have long been curious of this opulent Negrenses that even surprised Imelda Marcos.

Sugarcane loading at a field in Isabela, Negros Occidental

Months before, I interviewed the film director Jay Abella over at Kuppa Fort Bonifacio for a detailed teaser of a premiere done in SM City Bacolod. Even as I already know the issues and scope in the story, it was a fresh experience being a witness and at the same time, judge for such a great work. Just as I had discussed with Direk Jay, it touch very much on sensitive issues of Negros Sugar Industry. More than being a documentary about the industry, it was also a social commentary on the lifestyle and the prevailing attitudes of the Negrenses. As I believe, the solution to the woes of the sugar industry in Negros will not only save the province of its heritage industry but also other problems like governance, economics, tourism and even the field of sports.

An old photo with Negros Hacienderos of Basque-Spanish Origin

Negros Hacienderos are mostly of mixed origins, with mostly of Spanish decent. Among Spaniards, there are the Castillans, Basques and Catalans. Apart from the Spaniards, French with some of Jewish decent and merchant Chinese also settled in the islands and had a good life from trade of sugar. Who would not have one with a commodity that is constantly in demand around the world? With the expiration of the Laurel-Langley Agreement, things started to go awful when the sugar prices dropped from three digits to two and worse, eventually one-digit prices. NASUTRA monopoly led by Marcos crony, Roberto S. Benedicto did not help and in fact worsened the problem with corruption and inconsistencies in the sugar loaning system.

Farmers planting patdan or sugarcane points in a Hacienda

The change of regime from Ferdinand Marcos to Corazon Aquino did not help either in solving the problem especially when Land Reform was instituted that gave land to farmers. This was a huge blow to the sugar industry for this greatly reduced since unlike rice, sugar was meant to planted on large fields and not small plots. While this was an answer to the supposed labor abuse of the Marcos Era, it did not help in empowering farmers since none of the them had an income sufficient to till the land. Just as the industry was coping, another challenge came in with the incoming free entry of cheap Thai Sugar through the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement or AFTA. Rice and Sugar are seen to be the ones that will be greatly affected with this open competition.

The Ruins or mansion of Mariano Lacson, one of so-called “Sugar Mansions”

The Sugar Crisis was not without warning though since a number of economists and Negrense businessmen has already predicted the outcome but no one listened. Negrense Hacienderos are themselves fragmented without common cause with many interest groups that branch off as more disagreements ensued. Was it really just the Laurel-Langley Agreement, NASUTRA and Roberto S. Benedicto who are at fault or is it pride? In a nutshell, Negros Island could have been where Cebu is right now if people only cared to listen and actually unite to act for these problems to have not occurred in the first place. I hope this made you think again of what we have done and what should be done in the future or else the sword of Damocles will continue to hang.

The official poster of PUREZA The Story of Negros Sugar

As much as I want to discuss further, it would be good if you see the film first hand for you to have an idea. PUREZA The Story of Negros Sugar will Premiere in Manila this coming May 31 at Powerplant Mall Cinema at Rockwell Center Makati. Just to make you more interested, Negros Island produces 70 to 80% of the country’s sugar yield which means the sugar you might be using at home may have come from the sugar mills of the Island. Now curious of why your most ordinary of commodity brought both riches and problems to an island it enriched? The ticket prices are at P400 which can finance film showings around the country especially in universities. For schedules on the ticket prices and available seats, you may visit the official blog of PUREZA.

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May 3, 2012

Bacolod Masskara Hailed As Showtime Grand Champion

By Mark Mayo - Magallanes

The day was Saturday, just like any ordinary day preparing for my fencing training and my visiting cousin’s prep up for Palarong Pambansa when we were suddenly glued to the television at ABS-CBN2. It was the Grand Final Showdown for Showtime’s Inter-Town Edition. Honestly, I was never a fan of Showtime though would catch snippets of it on television but what got me going was the fact that my hometown’s Bacolod Masskara is a participant to the contest, together with another Negros Occidental Festival, La Castellana Bailes de Luces and Dumaguete’s Pride from Negros Oriental. A friend of mine commented on Facebook that it looks like when God rained talents on Earth, it seems that Negros Island got most of the share.

First one to perform from Negros Island was Dumaguete’s Pride with several on the studio and more in the Silliman University grounds. The group got off with a good performance, all drapped in red and superb dancing skills. Dumagueteños wowed the crowd with their amazing dance skills which garnered a 10 from Vice Ganda. The live feed was superb and the pristine surroundings of Dumaguete City amazed the judges as well. Representatives from the City of Gentle People definitely fought well.

TV Screenshot of Bacolod Masskara’s performance at Showtime

When it was the turn for Bacolod Masskara to perform, all eyes were glued on the television. The live feed from the new City Hall or what is known as the Government Center had technical difficulties due to temporary blackout but was restored after a few minutes. As if to remedy the little setback, the dancers from both in the Studio and in the Government Center started in full bloom of colors. Brgy. Alijis dancers were at the Studio while on the ground were dancers from Brgy. 17, 21 and even from the Bacolaodiat Festival.

Brgy. 17 and 21 Masskara Dancers performing with Bacolaodiat Festival Dancers

I was thrilled that they used the old Hiligaynon, Latin beats-tuned Masskara dance music at the performance at Showtime. Since I moved here in Manila, I have not been to Masskara Festival or has seen it live so this was the closest I have to seeing Masskara Festival. The dance moves in the studio were perfectly coordinated with those in the Government Center grounds. Everyone, those in Bacolod, those in the studio and even those watching the television were just holding their breaths everytime.

A chopper appeared mid-performance reportedly loaned by Cong. Albee Benitez

While the symphony of colors and dance moves wowed both the judges and studio audience, everyone was surprised when all of the sudden, a chopper appeared in the middle of the performance! This chopper, said to have been loaned by Third District Rep. Albee Benitez, dropped confetti and balloons to the dancing crowd below. As the performance was capped, everyone stood for a loud cheer and applause with the crowd suggesting a perfect 10. Vice Ganda was speechless, agreed with the crowd and gave a perfect 10.

Just as we were about to turn off the television and leave for some errands, the other dance contingent from Negros Occidental, La Castellana Bailes de Luces also performed after Bacolod Masskara. It was a feat that they made it in the finals for they failed in their first attempt of joining but came back as a wild card and proving that they deserve to be there in the first place. Learning from the mistakes of the initial failed performance, their live feed dancers performed this time in the town’s darkened covered court.

La Castellana Bailes de Luces performance screenshot at Showtime

Not to be outdone, the pulled up a really colorful performance both on the studio and on the live feed. The dancers in the studio and in the live feed were in perfect coordination, as if they were just dancing on the same location, just like how it is done every January 5 annually at La Castellana. The group tapped all the participants to recreate one of Negros Occidental’s most colorful festivals. In showing their artistry, they also garnered standing applauses, audience demands for a perfect 10 which Vice Ganda also agreed.

Judges unanimously giving scores of perfect 10 to Bacolod Masskara

In the end, it was a close match between the three Negrense participants, besting the rest from around the country. Dumaguete’s Pride got a statistical third place with an average score of 9.6 while La Castellana Bailes de Luces got an almost perfect score except for a single 9 which got a 9.9 average score. The air got tensed when the score for Bacolod was announced, from the perfect 10 given initially, other judges followed suit and gave their perfect 10 after another to an average score of a perfect 10! The studio and the live feed erupted into cheers when Bacolod Masskara was announced the winner. Their performance was only a fraction of what to expect this Masskara Festival 2012, especially on something grand prepared on October 19, 20 and 21 for the highlights.

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March 6, 2012

Panaad sa Negros ’12: Schedule of Activities

By Mark Mayo - Magallanes

Summer season has come once again to the Philippines and in my hometown of Bacólod City, this means that the much awaited Panaad sa Negros Festival is just a month away. Preparations are now in full swing and the pavilions are being renovated for the upcoming festival. I have been always been loyal in going to Panaad during festival since I used to live nearby until I moved to Manila. In my previous blog post, you may have read my teaser blog about the sights and sounds around Panaad. Now, its time for you to go to Bacólod City and to Panaad Park to experience Negrénse hospitality. Here is the Panaad Schedule of Activities:

DAY I, APRIL 9 (MONDAY)

06:00 a.m. Hataw sa Panaad w/ Ching’s Group (Panaad Football Field)
07:30 a.m. The Great Titan Lifesaving Sports Festival (Panaad Swimming Complex)
08:00 a.m. Panaad Thanksgiving Mass (2F Panaad Stadium)
09:00 a.m. Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies for:

Panaad Tourism & Trade Fair @ LGU Pavilions*
Negros’ Best Products Display, NOTLDC (2F Panaad Stadium, North Wing)*
Organic na Negros Agri-Fest (GF Panaad Stadium, North Wing)*
Livestock & Dairy Products Fair (GF Panaad Stadium North Wing Grounds)*
Festival Costumes Exhibit & Competition (GF Panaad Stadium, South Wing)*
Eco-Garden & Wellness Show (South area across Candoni Booth)*
Environmental Information Advocacy (2F Panaad Stadium)*

02:00 p.m. Motorcade & LGU Floats Competition (Provincial Capitol to Panaad Park)
04:00 p.m.

Opening Ceremony & Festival Dance Competition (Panaad Stadium)
Fireworks Display

8:00 p.m. GMA “Kapuso” Show (Stadium)

DAY II, APRIL 10 (TUESDAY)

06:00 a.m. Hataw sa Panaad w/ Panaad Hot Bodies (Panaad Football Field)
07:30 a.m.

The Great Titan Lifesaving Sports Festival (Panaad Swimming Complex)
Athletics (Panaad Field)

08:00 a.m. Chess (Stadium VIP Room)
10:00 a.m. Daily Trade Fair & Exhibits @ various venues (refer to Day 1)
01:00 p.m. Drum & Bugle Competition, Secondary Level (Panaad Football Field)
02:00 p.m. Boxing (2nd Level South Wing, Panaad Stadium – weigh-in @ 7:30-10am)
07:00 p.m. Negros Pop Music Festival – Composo/Pop Song Writing Competition (Panaad Stadium)
08:00 p.m. NOPSSCEA Cultural Show (Panaad Park Stage)

DAY III, APRIL 11 (WEDNESDAY)

06:00 a.m. Hataw sa Panaad w/ Panaad Hot Bodies (Panaad Football Field)
07:30 a.m.

The Great Titan Lifesaving Sports Festival (Panaad Swimming Complex)
Athletics (Panaad Field)

08:00 a.m.

TESDA Livelihood Skills Olympics (Panaad Covered Court)
Chess (Panaad Stadium VIP Room)
UPLBAA Annual Panaad Seminar (venue TBA)

10:00 a.m. Daily Trade Fair & Exhibits @ various venues (refer to Day 1)
01:00 p.m. Taekwondo (2nd Level North Wing, Panaad Stadium, weigh in @ 9-11am)
02:00 p.m. Boxing (2nd Level South Wing, Panaad Stadium – weigh-in @ 7:30-10am)
03:00 p.m. Latin Dance Sport – Adult, Senior & Juvenile Categories (NOMPAC Gym)
07:00 p.m. RMN Panaad Hip Hop Challenge (Panaad Park Stage)
08:00 p.m. UNILEVER “Pop Fiesta” (Panaad Stadium)

DAY IV, APRIL 12 (THURSDAY)

06:00 a.m.

Hataw sa Panaad w/ Panaad Hot Bodies (Panaad Football Field)
3K & 5K Road Race (Panaad Stadium)

07:30 a.m.

The Great Titan Lifesaving Sports Festival (Panaad Swimming Complex)
Athletics (Panaad Field)

08:00 a.m.

Chess (Panaad Stadium VIP Room)
Taekwondo (2nd Level North Wing, Panaad Stadium)

10:00 a.m. Daily Trade Fair & Exhibits @ various venues (refer to Day 1)
02:00 p.m. Boxing (2nd Level South Wing, Panaad Stadium – weigh-in @ 7:30-10am)
03:00 p.m.

Environmental Activity – PEMO (2F Panaad Stadium)
Provincial Capitol Employees’ Day (Panaad Park Stage)

05:00 p.m. Visayan Folk Dances Competition (Panaad Stadium)
09:00 p.m. Technical Rehearsal, Lin-ay sang Negros Pageant (Panaad Stadium)

DAY V, APRIL 13 (FRIDAY)

06:00 a.m. Hataw sa Panaad w/ Panaad Hot Bodies (Panaad Football Field)
07:30 a.m. The Great Titan Lifesaving Sports Festival (Sipalay City)
08:00 a.m. Swimming (Panaad Swimming Pool)
10:00 a.m. Daily Trade Fair & Exhibits @ various venues (refer to Day 1)
02:00 p.m. Boxing (2nd Level South Wing, Panaad Stadium)
08:00 p.m.

MOR Local Stock – Ilonggo Music Fest (Panaad Park Stage)
Lin-ay sang Negros Pageant & Coronation Night (Panaad Stadium)

DAY VI, APRIL 14 (SATURDAY)

06:00 a.m.

Hataw sa Panaad w/ Panaad Hot Bodies (Panaad Football Field)
Murcia – Panaad Run

07:30 a.m.

Governor’s Cup Panaad National Golf Tournament, Vice Mayor’s League (NOGCC)
The Great Titan Lifesaving Sports Festival (Sipalay City)

08:00 a.m.

Swimming (Panaad Swimming Pool)
Farmers Day Celebration & Farmers Forum (venue TBA)

10:00 a.m. Daily Trade Fair & Exhibits @ various venues (refer to Day 1)
02:00 p.m.

Panaad Derby Opening (Panaad Covered Court)
Boxing (2nd Level South Wing, Panaad Stadium – weigh-in @ 7:30-10am)

07:00 p.m. Outstanding Farmers & Firsherfolk Awards – OPA/PVO w/ ABS-CBN (Panaad Stadium)
09:00 p.m. ABS-CBN’s Kapamilya Fiesta Caravan (Panaad Stadium)

DAY VII, APRIL 15 (SUNDAY)

06:00 a.m. Hataw sa Panaad w/ Ching’s Group (Panaad Football Field)
07:30 a.m.

Governor’s Cup Panaad National Golf Tournament, Vice Mayor’s League (NOGCC)
The Great Titan Lifesaving Sports Festival (Sipalay City)

10:00 a.m. Daily Trade Fair & Exhibits @ various venues (refer to Day 1)
02:00 p.m. Panaad Derby (Panaad Covered Court)
03:00 p.m. Closing Ceremony w/ Awarding & Presentation of Winners (Panaad Stadium)
07:00 p.m.

Drumbeating Showcase/Fireworks Display
Silka Sponsored Show (Park Stage)

08:00 p.m. Corporate Show/Concert (Panaad Stadium)

For those who have not been to Panaad and are interested to go, Panaad is just 30 minutes from the City Center, in the suburbs of Mansilingan. Taking a cab is the easiest way to the area but there are also two routes for commuters. The jeepney route Alijis (RPHS)-Central Market with the terminal beside Gaisano Bacólod Main takes you to the main entrance while the Mansilingan-Libertad route with the terminal at Acebedo Building, Gatuslao Street takes you to the back entrance. If you are planning to go on a trip around Island, start off here so that you can know what to expect with the wonders that is the Sugarlandia, Negros Island.

4 comments   |  tags: , , , , , , , | posted in Arts, Culture, Events, Fashion, Food, Interior Design, Lifestyle, Negros Occidental, The Bread Rolls

January 26, 2012

Pascua sa Bacólod: Reminisce at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon

By Mark Mayo - Magallanes

Sea travel is often the most taxing experience for many people and it took a bit of toll on my Singapore-based guest I fetched from Iloilo. Knowing that a good view could relieve one of discomfort, I took my guest to the Provincial Capitol Lagoon. I have featured the Provincial Capitol Lagoon and it’s newly installed fountains before but this time, I will be seeing the fountains myself. Previous decorations in the Provincial Capitol was just sleezy Christmas lights spelling out greetings of “Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year” in Hiligaynon. This year and may become a permanent sight in the Provincial Capitol, the area is draped in blue and green.

This particular day, the Provincial Capitol Lagoon was full of families going into night picnics on the park lawn. I still remember more than a decade ago when my family would do the same bringing picnic mats but instead of bringing picnic baskets with goods, we would buy snacks or dinner at the McDonald’s branch across. Even as distractions like TV and internet has seemed to have replaced outdoor quality time, I am happy that this has not been totally gone after all. Nothing beats the fresh air, a simple comfort that residents of Bacólod City still enjoy and something that counterpart cities in other parts of the country could only wish having.

The skating rink that was built in my childhood years is still in good shape and a number of roller skaters and skateboarders doing their tricks with friends. On the stage platform, some ladies were doing some dance exercises, another group was busy with what seems to be tai-chi while there were a lot of joggers for that day. My bet is that they were trying to drop off some pounds after a full noche buena on Christmas night and reserving some more for the New Year’s feast. The Provincial Capitol Lagoon is most alive in this time of the day and served it’s ultimate purpose of being a place for family bonding with some occasional couples “PDA-ing”.

While I was reminiscing the sixteen years I spent in this city and the memories I had with this place, Doc Richard was busy taking some snapshots of the place. He found it very impressive and what could be most picturesque Provincial Capitol he has ever seen. The almost 80-year old Provincial Capitol of Occidental Negros was and still is an impressive structure that is a testament to the power that the sugar industry now holds. It is still best to it by the steps of the Capitol, sit by the grasses or feeding the tilapias with popcorn or rice pops for good family time. My hope is that this heritage park will be maintained well for future generations to enjoy.

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January 25, 2012

Reliving Sugarlandia in “PUREZA”

By Mark Mayo - Magallanes

When folks in Manila hear of Negros, the first thing that comes into their mind is the haciendas planted with sugarcane lorded over by hacenderos on their horses with a cane at hand while watching sacadas toiling the field. This is the stereotypical image and stigma of Negros that has been stuck in the minds of a non-Negrénse. Indeed, it is not surprising since Negros is still the Sugarlandia, the Philippines’ Sugar Bowl, being the source of 70% to 80% of the country’s sugar exports and sugarcanes still dominate the Negros landscape from north to south.

Documentaries have been written about Philippine history but it seems that Negros has been a gray area. Most often, Negros has only been mentioned in passing or footnoted in history books with the vague description as being the country’s sugar producing area. If the book publisher is a bit detailed, it would mention Cinco de Noviembre, the revolutionary leaders and their haciendas. Trying to debunk myths and reinforce established truths, the first full-length documentary on this struggling industry will premiere in Bacólod City, the Sugarlandia’s capital.

PUREZA, short for the Spanish term “Pureza de Azucar”, refers to the purity of the sugar yield that is determined by the stages of sugar production from planting all the way down to milling. The title is apt since it details a vital since it determines the profit that may be earned from that yield, the profit which fuels the almost legendary lifestyle of the hacenderos. The sugar mills and refineries of past and present still use this as their standard, a timeless testament to the story of the once thriving but now struggling billion-dollar cash crop export industry.

The full trailer offers us a transport back to the history of Negros, the hacenderos, so-called sugar aristocracy. PUREZA took more than three years to finish with a powerhouse production team that worked night and day. Most of them have been  immersed with Negros and some even are related to landholding families themselves. This hardy production team are composed of the ff. people:

Executive Producers J. ABELLO, JOEY GASTON
Producers FIONA BORRES, AGNES VILLAR
Director J. ABELLO
Assistant Director LOVELLE BELLOCILLO
Writers JET ORBIDA, CHECCS OSMEÑA
Editor FIONA BORRES
 Visual FX Supervisor RICHARD FRANCIA
Sound Engineers ALBERT MICHAEL IDIOMA, ALEX TOMBOC
Music PEARLSHA ABUBAKAR
Researchers IHVONIE SEVILLENO, KAT VALENCIA
Cosplay Actors OYING OSMEÑA, MILTON DIONZON, MANDY ALIMON, EERO MARTINEZ, DANTE AMIGUIN

Bonfire Productions and Negros Pureza Foundation handled much of the productions with support from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. Their countless hours of research, unconventional chroma production, sleepless hours of tedious editing, tons costume shopping to occasional arguments over scripts had a finished product of a 2-hour and 15-minute long documentary.

Their hard work will pay off soon as the documentary will have a premiere screening this coming February 7, 2012, 6:30pm at SM City Bacólod. On the other hand, PUREZA will also join the Bacollywood: Cinema Rehiyon 2012, a National Independent Film and Video Art Festival, and will also have a screening on February 11, 2012 at Robinson’s Place Bacólod. The documentary will be open for public screening on February 17, 2012. Stay tuned in this blog for more features on this documentary film and hopefully an interview feature with Director Jay Abella very soon.

________________________________________

Photos provided by the Production Team and the Negros Museum.

2 comments   |  tags: , , , , , , , , , , , | posted in Arts, Culture, Events, History, Negros Occidental, The Bread Rolls

December 16, 2011

The Capitol Lagoon: New Beauty In Timeless Old Glory

By Mark Mayo - Magallanes

This morning, with an aching body from the tiresome activities yesterday, I check my Facebook for new stuff around the online community. Seemingly half-awake, an image captured my mind and threw me aback. I did recognize the statue of a man with his carabao but something on the background caught my attention, what seems to be a fountain. When I thought I was dreaming, I did remember that later today, they are going to officially turn on the dancing fountain in the Provincial Capitol Lagoon at Bacólod City. The installation of a dancing fountain and color-themed floodlights signify a fateful start of developments around the area that is spearheaded by the Ayala Land, Inc. The Ayala Land, Inc., the undisputed winner of the bidding for the land behind the Provincial Capitol and the lots behind or beside the Philippine National Bank Regional Office, will develop not only the area of choice they acquired but also the whole premises of Province in Lacson St., already home to Bacólod’s or even the Island’s premiere commercial and financial districts.

In a recap of history, the Provincial Capitol’s construction was spearheaded in 1924 by the famous city-planner Daniel Burnham, the same Daniel Burnham who master planned the City of Baguio. The structure is of Beaux Art Design and was originally planned to include the present central façade only just like its twin Provincial Capitol in Negros Oriental. The North and South Wings were added for more office spaces, social functions and court offices when the present Hall of Justice was not yet constructed. As evident with Daniel Burnham’s project in Baguio City, he also had a man-made lagoon done which added to the beauty of the complex. There used to be lightings and small fountains in the Lagoon but was discontinued due to the financial losses incurred by the province during the height of the Sugar Crisis in 1980′s. The return of the fountains in the lagoon, in a grander scale, is a symbol that the Province has already surpassed the challenges of the economic downfall.

According to reports, it is a German firm who installed the fountains in the Capitol Lagoon which started their test runs early this week. The Provincial Capitol Lagoon’s new fountains with sport a 25-30ft. spout of water, synchronized with lights which would definitely bring back the glory and attention to this heritage structure. This will definitely bring a jubilant cheer among the regular joggers and some lovers trying to find cool solace in the Provincial Capitol Lagoon Park. Structures with fountains are currently the norm in the city especially at grand hallways of hotels but the first structures to sport one aside from the Provincial Capitol Lagoon are the Silay City Plaza* which is the first in the Province, the Old Bacólod City Hall or what is called the Fountain of Justice and the Philippine National Bank Regional Office though the bank’s fountain is currently non-functional.

________________________________________

República Negrénse would like to thank and acknowledge Mr. Marlon Sabio for the photos and *Dr. Maritel Ledesma, MD for the info on the Silay fountains.

12 comments   |  tags: , , , , , | posted in Arts, Culture, History, Negros Occidental, The Bread Rolls

December 14, 2011

Tampisaw: Color Your Life In The New Year

By Mark Mayo - Magallanes

Is your life dull lately and want to start your new year in vibrance with the full mesh of colors? Why not try learning how to paint using watercolor? This New Year, the Negros Museum in their Weekend at the Museum will be preseting “Tampisaw”. What is Tampisaw? Tampisaw is a Hiligaynon word which means “to frolic” or “playfully wade in the water”. The title aptly describes describes this 3-day workshop on Watercolor Painting which is open to all watercolor enthusiasts and lovers of art. This will not be an ordinary watercolor workshop for our very own bemedalled kasimanwa will be joining us for this workshop and will teach us techniques in watercolor painting. None other than Riyadh, Saudi Arabia-based Negrénse artist, Edbon Sevilleno will lend us his time and grace this workshop on January 14 to 16, 2012 at PHINMA Main Gallery.

Watercolor painting for already more than twenty five years, Ebdon Sevilleno will be sharing techniques he learned and discovered through the romantic years with this medium of art. Edbon Sevilleno currently works as an advertising executive in the Middle East for already twenty years. His amazing talent has been honed all through his lifetime especially since he studied in Fine Arts in La Consolacion College Bacólod and has been a President of ARFIEN, the premiere art school in the city of that same college. Aside from his mastery of the watercolor medium, he is well acquainted with other mediums of painting which very proves much his prolificness and versatility as an artist.In this emphasis in watercolor, he proved that this can work well with both fine arts and applied arts. Watercolor is very much applicable to advertising, storyboards and book illustrations especially those for children.

Ebdon Sevilleno has highly traveled especially doing eight-man shows and countless group exhibits, locally and overseas. Doing book illustrations or comic strips is his work and passion since the 1980′s. Currently, he is still doing so for some graphic novels in both the United States and the United Kingdom. He has led several events for OFW artists in many countries like the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, United States and China by organizing the Guhit Pinoy. Locally in the island, he organized the Gamefowl Art of Negros Exhibit entitled BANGIS or the Bacólod-Negros Gamefowl Artists. This brought to the First Gamefowl Expo last January 2011 the wonderful works by twenty five different Negrénse Artists with sixty artworks on display. Seeing all these at hand, doesn’t this excite you already to meet and learn from this great artist himself?

The first two days of the workshop will feature fun-filled lessons and symposiums while on the last day itself, you will be able to showcase your newly-enhanced talent by doing an open air painting session with other veteran artists of Negros. Indeed, it is a grand partnership with the local artists who already brought about numerous programs about this medium of painting. These artists want to share to the community their learnings and techniques for the future generations to use. The gist however is that this event will not be for beginners though but for those who have the potentials and want to hone their talent. Even though everyone is expected to provide their own materials, the shared knowledge is a valuable treasure to keep. What are you waiting for? Registration is still open but slots are limited, with the reservation and workshop fee for only P1,500. Those interested may call on (6334) 433-47-64 or on their mobile hotline at (63921) 330-78-61. For our netizens, The Negros Museum also has an active presence in Twitter and Facebook so don’t forget to “follow” or “like” them.

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December 10, 2011

Negrénse Christmas Gift Ideas: The Negros Museum Shop

By Mark Mayo - Magallanes

A scene at night in the major thoroughfares of Metropolitan Manila and even Metropolitan Bacólod would be cars streaming to malls as people try to complete their Christmas gift list. Welcome to the holiday season and we are well within Christmas season as houses light up in color and Christmas trees decorated with the latest Christmas decors. Listening to the radio at 96.3 Easy Rock (or 105.5 Easy Rock Bacólod), there are items I am avoiding giving to friends, loved ones and family members. Those are socks, the usual calendars of all sizes, colors and shapes, maybe some little key chains or towels. A good advice is give something you yourself would want to receive, hence be creative in this season of not just giving but creative giving. If you have yet to complete your Christmas gift list, I suggest you follow me as I check out on the latest finds within Metropolitan Bacólod. I am lucky enough that Negros Museum shared to me that they have turned their simple but beautiful gift shop to a Christmas idea shops for the still confused or maybe lost Christmas shoppers who want simple but thoughtful gifts.

A sneak peak at the selections reveal a number of items that will tickle your fancy. One could see a lot of novelty items from all sizes and not to mention collectible too. While these items look a bit foreign-made, in fact they are locally produced items made by local artists just for the Christmas season. If you are a collector of Christmas items, some of those in display would really appeal to you. What I love about Negros Museum Shop’s selections are that while you buy for your gift-giving conveniences, you are actually helping in promoting Negros-made items. Every item has a bit of Negros etched or painted on them. Did I mention those are also artworks? Stuff like paintings and sculptures are also at hand for art lovers and enthusiasts.

Why not buy a painting to adorn someone’s house? Negrénse artists have their original artworks on display at the Negros Museum Shop and they’re for sale too. Scenes depicting Negrénse sights or daily living are the best buys for this season. On the other hand, figurines are a hit too with the fact that most of the wood carvings are now sold out. Items displayed are limited items available only before Christmas and they are selling out fast. If paintings and artworks are not your fancy, why not buy mugs, tea sets or coffee-related items for your Dad or older sibling? Candy bowls and gift boxes are also available to suit your creativity. After swinging by Negros Museum to learn on Negros Island’s history, heritage and culture, why not check out the gift shop afterwards? I’m sure you would find something for your friends, family and maybe your significant other.

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If you are interested, more of these gift items are available in Negros Museum‘s FB page.

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October 18, 2011

Kitchen Art Exhibit at the Negros Museum

By Mark Mayo - Magallanes

Inset: The Home of the Negros Museum, Inc.

Negros Museum is the Island’s foremost museum showcasing the history, culture and heritage of the Island of Negros. For some, history, culture or heritage are only those they see in history books, museum exhibits or cultural centers but heritage is more than the old, its about the living. For that matter, a living heritage that is very much ingrained in the culture. For the past 13 years, Negrense food enthusiasts have gathered together at the Balay Negrense Museum every 5th of November to share a gustatory experience in line with our observance of the “Cinco de Noviembre” Celebration in Silay City. Cinco de Noviembre is the day when Negrénse revolutionaries revolted against the Spanish rulers in Bacólod and gave birth to the República de Negros, the namesake of this website. History goes that the revolutionary leaders fooled the Spaniards into surrendering by painting sticks to look like rifles and rolled sawali matts to look as if they’re cannons. This must have been a formidable sight to the Spanish residents. What a momentary commemoration than a feast in the house that became the icon of Negros.

Inset: The Balay Negrénse, Gaston Ancestral House in Silay City.

One of our foremost Filipino heritage food is the ever famous adobo. Filipinos here and abroad know this dish, with many having their own recipe. The “Adobo Festival” which features an Adobo Cooking Competition has been a testimony of our mark as Filipinos – adobo being a dish prepared by our ancestors long before the Chinese traders came to the Philippines and the Spaniards colonized us. Now on our 14th year, the Negros Cultural Foundation once again brings together culinary experts, cooking aficionados and budding chefs to challenge to come up with new tastes for this tried and tested Filipino dish. To add to the excitement, we also celebrate the 6th year of the Muscovado Cooking competition which has produced a rich harvest of recipes using muscovado sugar as main ingredient. Muscovado sugar has long been a product of Negros and in fact our first sugar exports to Europe and in the United States were actually muscovado sugar. Before things have been mechanized, muscovado is cooked in the backyard or in dirty kitchens with some families having secret recipe in cooking their unique blend of muscovado.

Inset: Market Manila's experience with "kulon" cooking of adobo.

On the other hand, there will be an exhibit entitled Kitchen Art Exhibit in celebration of food. The Kitchen Art Exhibit is an exhibit that aims to support, encourage, inspire, and expose the flexibility and artistry of our local Negrense Artists. This exhibit also aims to help raise funds for Balay Negrense and Negros Museum, two icons of Negrénse heritage showcase and heritage preservation. Local artists will have chance to showcase their talents and for the audience to see the art pieces that will enhance their kitchen as well as collect artworks. Exhibits will be for sale after the event and exhibit duration. The Kitchen Art Exhibit is open to all local Negrense Artists of any medium like painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media or any form of recognized art medium.

Inset: The location of Negros Museum in Google Earth.

The Negros Museum will accept all kinds of artworks but it should comply within the context of the Kitchen Art Exhibit, with which artwork should be suitable for the kitchen, kitchen equipments or materials can be utilized, maximum size for the two dimensional artworks should not exceed 18”x24” including frame or for sculptures or any three dimensional works, it should not exceed 1ft x 1ft x 1ft. The price range for the product should be in the range of Php 5 – Php 5, 000.00. Deadline of submission is on October 21, 2011 at the Negros Museum in Gatuslao Street, Bacólod City, just beside the Hall of Justice. The artist interested should make sure the following are completed like the complete information of the artwork, including the name, dimensions, price, title and medium, Memorandum of Agreement on exhibit range, the artists biography with forms from the Negros Museum with ID picture and Certificate of Authenticity. The participants are also reminded that all Artworks are subject for screening. However, if the artist does not want his/her artwork to be displayed longer on the Balay Negrense or in the Negros Museum, the artist may claim their artwork a week after the November 5 event with their claim stab otherwise, the art pieces will be displayed on December until the end of the month in the Negros Museum.

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