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Friday, January 30, 2009
Street dancing is one of the highlights of every town festival in the Philippine islands. Street pole banners, light pole banners and mini flags adorn the city. The festive mood of music, food and laughter reverberates the whole day through. Night time is usually reserved for local beauty contests, a staple in every town fiesta. The Sinulog Festival is Cebu City's fiesta of fiestas. Held every first month of the year, it is characterized by its peculiar two-steps-forward-and-one-step-backward shuffle which simulates the Holy Child on the seashore. The Sinulog is a century-old tradition and has been observed in this part of the Visayas region. The prayer-dance is synchronized to the beat of drums and shouts of "Pit Senior! Viva Sto. Nino!" However, my most memorable experience is the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City. Merry mayhem breaks loose in Iloilo every January when Ilonggos leave everything behind to join in the fiesta of the year. All inhibitions are dropped. Boring everyday clothes are exchanged for "Ati" warrior costumes and black body paint. People from every age, old and young, rich and poor join hands together and dance in the streets amidst the pounding rhythm of drums. The costumed Ilonggos put their best feet forward in celebration of Dinagyang. Both the Dinagyang of Iloilo and Sinulog of Cebu actually take their roots from the Ati-Atihan Festival of Kalibo, Aklan. Ati-atihan commemorates the 13th century land deal between 10 migrating Bornean chieftains and the aboriginal Ati King Marikudo. It also honors the town patron, the Sto. Nino (Infant Jesus). The ceaseless, rhythmic pounding of drums get to you, and before you know it you are on the street, shuffling your feet, shaking your head, waving your hands - and joining thousands of soot-blacked, gaily-costumed revelers in an ancient ritual of mindless merriment. A familiar battle cry reaches your ears, "Hala Bira! Hala Bira!" Sweet, original street dancing at its best!
by: The Flagman
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Going home I approached a curve and almost ran into a utility marker in the middle of the road. It said "If you bump this, you're going too fast." No, I'm just joking. It was an unmarked road barrier with two red flags on each end. Turns out that a couple of workers were doing repairs on a broken water pipe. What's so interesting about utility markers is that they could be interpreted in different ways. Take this for example, "Left turn yield on green" What the hell does this mean? Another one, "Slow Men Working Ahead". Does this mean that there are lazy workers up ahead? How about this one in Jacksonville, Florida- "CAUTION: This sign has sharp edges" So? It's not that I give every sign a big hug, do I? And this one in a shopping mall - "WARNING: Children left unattended will be sold to the circus", and so I yell to my children, " Hey kids, hold my hand...tight!" Going home and reading the classified ads on my newspaper, I found these gems. "Used tombstone. Perfect for someone named Hendel Bergen Heinzel." Well, good luck in finding your lucky buyer"! "Roasted Turkey For Sale: Partially eaten, but both drumsticks still intact. Only eight days old." Huh? No thanks! "For sale: One pair of hardly-used dentures, only 2 teeth missing" Well, I hope it's the 2 front teeth... Christmas is fast approaching. What intrigued me the most was a sign outside a church which said "Don't let worries kill you. Let the church help." Ah, uhmmm.... Ok. Finally, here's one for the books. I think this refers to George W. Bush, you know, the almost ex-president. It's from a clothing label (that small tag at the back of your neck, as if you didn't know) from a small American company that sells their product in France. Here's the translation of the French part of the label." Wash with warm water. Use mild soap. Dry flat. Do not use bleach. Do not iron. We are sorry that our president is an idiot. We did not vote for him."
by: The Flagman
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Every New Year's Day, a parade is held in our city and every known political personality will join the party. Normally, we have street dancing and the participants are from the selected schools chosen by the mayor himself. Along with the street dance, come the floral floats, floats that are designed using flowers, such as orchids, daisies, and a lot more. By seven o'clock, the streets are filled with people who are waiting for the parade. Everyone you see is prepared. They have chairs and umbrellas. Moments after you hear the sirens of the patrol cars that open up the parade, the majorettes follow, and you hear the whistles of men, a telltale sign that they are enjoying the moment.After the majorettes, the riders club comes with all those large horses of different breeds. They look majestic, just like the horses of the knights of ages past, the horses embody beauty and strength. After the wide array of attractions, the participants for the street dance competition take center stage with different formations and moves. They really bring the excitement and they bring out the energy of the crowd. Of all the participants the kids from the elementary school is fun to watch because they do everything and they look cute. They do hip hop and contemporary while flaunting those cute faces. I can't help but be amazed by the way they move and jive to the music. After the fun street dancing competition, the floral floats come in. Everyone takes pictures of the floats, the design and beauty of the floats are really astonishing and the artists that built them are extremely talented. After the floral floats, the racing club appears. This was new for us. They had car flags that had their logos. The cars are really built for speed. The sound given off by the cars are monstrous and every car fanatic there is, is simply fascinated. Finally, the car flags that symbolize our community appear with the mayor and the city's councilmen inside those fancy limousines waving to the people while giving off a wide smile. For us this was fun, we get to see the most respected people in our community and we even get to shake hands with them. After the lawmakers pass, the people await for the street parties that would close the entire celebration. It's always memorable to be in our little ciyt's New Year's Day parade and that's one of the reason I am home for the holidays.
by: The Flagman
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Basketball, an adrenaline-pumping sport, filled with action and highlights like dunks, cross overs and miraculous shots. That's how it is, especially when you don't expect any fantastic things to happen, basketball is just a sport you have got to love. With the likes of Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony, and Lebron James, you can't help but think about the possibilities that might happen. I have seen these guys play in the National Basketball Association, and I tell you they are more than just your average players. Take for example, the main man, Dwyane Wade. I am telling you he is the next Michael Jordan, his first step is amazing, it's like lightning! With his speed so fast, no one can handle him especially if he has no injuries. He can beat Lebron James and Carmelo Anthony whenever and wherever! James Naismith is indeed really a genius to have invented the sport we now call, basketball. It is the sport we have since adored, the new American past time, the new generation of adrenaline pumping action. But where did this fan addiction really start from? Before the great and good players join the National Basketball Association or NBA for short, their skills are tested in the National Collegiate Athletic Association(NCAA) which is the training ground of NBA. Many are called but few are chosen, that's the theme of NCAA. Dwyane Wade grew up and was well-known from that league. He was then a student and a varsity player at Marquette University. During that time, he drew inspiration from the college flag that symbolized their school. And yes, as known to many, Dwayne Wade has a unique ability when it comes to basketball where he is famous for his fast moves and exhilarating style. But before the high flying dunks and crazy cross overs he is popularly known for today, he was first a key player of Marquette University. He was an athlete inspired by the college flag of Marquette, the Golden Eagle flag of Marquette, where at that time, he was impossible to beat. He simply had killer instincts and he dunked like no one was in front of him. This superb ability made him the ultimate player. I don't know about what other people think, but for me, he is the number one guy, better than James, better than Carmelo and definitely, better than anyone in the league.
by: The Flagman
Monday, January 26, 2009
Fires as man-made disaster are simply destructive. In minutes, a fire can spread very fast and that one can see his own property crumble into ashes very his very eyes. Worse, it can take away lives of people, too. Fires can be very common during summers when the scorching heat of the sun is at its peak. Thus, it is safe to be always careful at home especially with electric plugs, wires and cables. One must make sure to unplug electrical gadgets before going to sleep or when going out of the house. A lot of fires are caused by negligence, like cellular phones left charging for hours, unplugged electric irons, microwave ovens and many more. I had a first hand experience of a fire incident when I was just a 5 year-old kid. That afternoon, while staying at my mom's office after school, we got an emergency call from my dad that our neighbor's house, the one next to us, was burning because of some faulty wiring. Immediately, we went home. When we almost arrived our place, I remembered a lot people where running here and there, bringing and trying to save some of their belongings. It was also very noisy, I could see two fire trucks that that had fire fighters flags on their sides. The firemen were busy putting out the fire. After a few minutes, an ambulance came, this time it was bearing a fire rescue flag. Apparently, the old woman living next door was hurt while trying to carry her stuff. With the help of the community, the fire died down after 30 minutes. Luckily, our house was saved from the incident, thank God to the big Mango tree that stood in between our house and our neighbor's. It shielded our home from being burned to bits. After that, the community organized a relief drive for our neighbor whose house was badly damaged. The government also gave the family financial assistance to recover from the tragedy they had experienced. From then on, everyone started to be conscious especially with the electric connections in their homes. Indeed, life sometimes teaches hard lessons just so people will learn to change their ways.
by: The Flagman
Friday, January 23, 2009
America's rich culture can be seen in a simple glimpse of the most celebrated feast- the Thanksgiving. It is traditionally celebrated during the fourth Thursday of the November. For this year, the feast falls on November 27. Americans usually celebrate it with a big parade, football games and most significantly, spending time and having special dinner with the family. This festival is known as the Harvest festival or originally was a religious observance. Back then, churches bring in food from the garden or farm in order to celebrate the harvest and thank God by way of Holy Masses and self consecrations. Also, it is interred related to the deliverance of the English settlers by the Native Americans. As history quoted "The idea of freedom and democratic ideals was born in the Americas because it was only in America" that Europeans from 1500 to 1776 knew of societies that were "truly free." So, Spanish settlers held the first ever thanksgiving for their safe travel and discovery of the new world--- America. The national flag of America and festival flags all over America show the bounty and freedom that we are still enjoying and fighting for up to this very day. During the holiday, special food preparations are traditionally served at every home's dining table. As everyone knows, the roasted turkey is main delicacy of the occasion, which is the basic reason why Thanksgiving is also referred to as the "Turkey Day". Families have of their own way of celebrating the season and going for a travel is part of it, making Thanksgiving as the busiest travel period of the year. The Thanksgiving night and the eve of Thanksgiving are the busiest nights of the year in bars and clubs. During Thanksgiving, we are reminded that we are blessed and are continue growing with prosperity in a lot of things. Best of all, we are free and that we are not slaves of anyone except, being a servant to the almighty God in whom we are thankful for everything.
by: The Flagman
Thursday, January 22, 2009
It's Sunday morning, specifically the third Sunday of the month. It's the time where I get to spend some "quality time" with my father. After realizing that, I jumped out of my bed and swept aside the curtains the window and looked outside to see if there is some kind of storm approaching. Apparently there isn't; the sun shines brightly across the perfect blue sky. When the weather is this good for this time of the month, it usually translates to my day being crappy -- meaning my dad would choose to spend "our quality time" at the golf club with his friends who are also in their 50's! So there we are at the golf club at 8:45 am; "and so my torment begins" I mused as we entered its gates. The place is as usual wonderful; a large, smooth-sloped, grass-covered area which the golfers love. There are also some areas of the field covered with tall, magnificent trees and usually beside them is a cool, green pond. The only thing that contrasts this view is the number labeled golf flags placed on the holes which reminded me how long my day at the club will be. The time is 9:30 am, and my dad and his colleague were at last done with their seemingly endless conversation about some business stuff and were ready to play. I preferred to stay at the clubhouse and watch them play from afar than by playing some sport which I have no interest of. A few hours passed and it seems like it was forever; watching the golfers adjust the force of how they hit the golf ball for several minutes makes me sleepy and there are those golf flags who tirelessly wave as the wind pass through them. It seemed like its graceful wave is endless and so is my stay at the club. At the end, I actually survived for lunchtime; and as always we had a delicious lunchtime at the clubhouse. By the time we are about to go home, I could trace the joy in my father's face and it was all that takes to make my day and look forward to our next bonding time. I never quite understood why he likes to golf so much, I didn't bother that much to understand him anyway; all I knew is that it made him happy and that's what all that matters.
by: The Flagman
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Summer is always a season to look forward to; it is the season wherein the unforgiving summer heat assails. Because of this heat, it became a tradition of our family to have our vacation at the beach every summer. One of the most unforgettable summer vacation I had is when we went to the pristine tropical island of Boracay in the Philippines. The island is located 315 km south of the Philippine's capital city Manila. Despite of this degree of distance from Manila, getting into the island is relatively easy because of the nation's improved transportation system. You just have to ride on a small ship after arriving into Cebu city in order to get there. It was about 7 pm when we arrived into the island, and all of us directly went to the hotel in order to have some rest. We stayed on a fabulous seaside hotel, and we are lucky to have the rooms that directly face the gulf. Next morning, I overslept and woke up at 9:30 am; I hurriedly jumped out of my bed and excitedly went into the viewing room. The view there just took my breath away; I opened the glass door and the invigorating summer winds pierced my body as I walked into the veranda. The panoramic view of the gulf was so wonderful that I can't help to smile. The wide, sky-blue horizon is somewhat embellished by few windswept clouds; then as I shifted my vision downward, I saw the clear blue waters of Boracay radiating an aura that somewhat invites me to swim and play there. The seaside was that of clear white sands decorated with some colorful feather flags that happily waves as the wind blows were just like what I always see on the travel magazines. The perimeter of the beach is lined with coconut trees decorated with lively pennant streamers. When I was finished marveling at the beauty of the island for the first time; I just knew that I will have a great time there.
by: The Flagman
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
I always loved cooking and making perfect cuisine. Mixing all those ingredients and adding spices to the dish just makes me happy. Unfortunately cooking doesn't love me back. When I was a child I was fond of reading cook books, looking at those dishes just makes my appetite grow. I often imagined myself as a chef, standing in front of the camera, teaching the audience and the home viewers how to cook, in front of the table covered with a table banner that has iron chef written on it. When I grew up, I tried to cook, but it always ends up in despair, I don't understand why I cook that bad, why I don't get the right flavor or taste, why I burn the dish even if I abide by the book, sometimes I even feel that what I cook is poisonous.I just don't get it, I don't get why I cook awfully even if I follow every instruction written in the cookbook. I once read that any individual is capable of learning, therefore, everyone or anyone can cook, I just don't know if I am jinxed or cursed at cooking. After being fed up with my kitchen mishaps, I decided to make a phone call, and that phone call changed my cooking career permanently. After enrolling at a culinary school for beginners, my views about cooking changed. This time I knew what I was doing, I was never jinxed or cursed, and everything was a figment of my imagination, the problem before came from my exaggeration of things. The ambiance of the school for culinary arts was amazing, it would seem that you were in a studio for a television show, the tables were fully furnished, covered with table banners that carry the insignia of the school, truly, the school was a wonderland of happy dreams for me. Passion, that's what I have for cooking, pleasure, that's what the culinary school offered, knowledge that's what I acquired, combining all of these, I now have the perfect environment, learning in this culinary school is quite easy, for countless times I have been my own iron chef, I learned to cook exquisite cuisine with style and it doesn't taste bad anymore, and as of late, my dishes were a shocker, not just for me, but for everyone who have tasted my dishes. Bon appetite!
by: The Flagman
Monday, January 19, 2009
Japan is identified as the Land of the Rising Sun; it was called such because the Japanese names for Japan (Nippon and Nihon) literally means "the sun's origin" and are often translated as "Land of the Rising Sun". The rising sun has had an important symbolic meaning for Japan, thus it was adopted as a design for the nation's symbol -the Hinomaru. The background color of the Japanese flag is white and on the center is a red disk representing the sun. The nation's naval forces had also adopted this symbol on their ensign flag; a version of the sun disc design with red rays extending outward. Today, Japan has the world's second largest economy by nominal GDP. It has a large industrial capacity and is home to some of the largest, leading and most technologically advanced manufacturers of foods, ships, textiles, computers, and vehicles. Japan,s major industries include Banking, insurance, real estate, retailing, transportation, telecommunications and construction. Despite of this nation's highly developed industry; it has maintained efficient environmental protection policies resulting in the development of environment friendly innovations. At present, Japan is ranked 30th best in the world in the Environmental Sustainability index. This nation is also a cradle of technology and innovation. It currently has a $130 billion budget for research and development paired with 700,000 researchers. Most of Japan's scientific contributions are found in the fields of robotics, earthquake engineering, semi-conductors, and optics. Japan also boasts of its competitive education curriculum; it is the home of the 2 top performing universities in world and the knowledge and skills of a 15 year old Japanese is ranked by PISA as 6th best in the world. The title "Land of the Rising Sun" is certainly fit for Japan; a land of prosperity, where opportunities and new innovations arise. A nation that makes you want to wake up at day break and gaze at the splendor of nature.
by: The Flagman
Friday, January 16, 2009
I was amused seeing world flags while staying in a hotel for an overnight. It is located at the entrance, perhaps to show that they are an international hotel with branches in foreign lands. It is no wonder an international hotel because of its excellent amenities and facilities. I went on thinking about the partnership of nations and the agreements they made. Being able to invest and put up a business in a certain country takes relationship and trust not to mention the price involved. It is a privilege that we are all affected of even without really understanding who are those first brave men who ever fought for unity among countries and nations. I am not a historian or keen in business issues but I ponder and thought about this so called partnership. Presently, we can just travel all around the world and look for better jobs and get a high salary to meet our every ends. Long before the scenario isn't like this. People before suffer from racial or tribal differences. Aliens or none residents are being killed or put to bid to be slaves by local settlers. They are left with no choice to either fight for freedom and life or stay and be a slave for the rest of their lives. Today's scenario is way way different! I look at it as a change in perspective. The tribal people before looked at other tribes as enemies while, people today look at others as a prospective consumer or a great business partner. We have evolved and learned to help ourselves and each other. We learned to go beyond differences, colors of skin, language and culture. Now, I see these world flags as symbol of agreement of helping each other as partners. Then, I remember my dream of putting up my own business with one goal in mind- help others have a better life. Perhaps, I can go to different nations with this goal. The unity and partnership the flags symbolize make me dream big and do more not just for myself and family alone but also for my country and for others surrounding it.
by: The Flagman
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Bangkok is a city that really is larger than life. For some, its hectic pace, warm weather and heavy traffic can be overwhelming but its sheer vitality is simply fascinating. Despite its busy streets, Bangkok offers a great place to stay for a tourist's vacation. Hotel flags can be seen everywhere in Bangkok, which give tourists a guide in finding the best place to stay. One of the best places to stay in Bangkok is the Holiday Inn Hotel. Holiday Inn Hotel owns two architectural modern towers with 377 modern rooms that are situated in the active entertainment core of Siam. It is a 45-minute drive from both two airports which are Suvarnabhumi International Airport and the Don Muang International airport. The hotel is conveniently located in the central commercial district where one can see a lot of street hawkers, shopping centers, nightclubs and business offices. Other nearby attractions in the area are the following: The Central World Plaza, Siam Paragon, Gaysorn Boutique Mall, and the Erawan Shrine. These are exciting places to see and are all perfect for "shoppaholics". The hotel room facilities include desk, WIFI access for internet users, mini bar, cable TV, and separate shower and tub. The hotel facilities comprise of the bar or pub, business center, concierge, laundry service with dry cleaning, restaurant, 24-hour service, various specialty shops, travel agency. It is interesting to note that pet lovers are allowed to bring their pets in the hotel. For those active individuals who love sports and recreation, they offer the fitness gym, sauna, spa and the outdoor pool. When it comes to food, drinks and entertainment, Holiday Inn provides guests a modern all-day dining at their restaurant with a suitable lobby bar appropriate for personal or business meetings. Indeed, Holiday Inn Hotel is a right choice if you want to stay in the heart of the Bangkok. Not only is it nearby the train station, shopping malls and eateries but it is also very clean and spacious, giving you a great value for your money.
by: The Flagman
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Pizza Hut was founded in the year 1958 by Dan and Frank Carney. Its first building was located in Wichita State University campus and the other additional restaurants were opened in Topeka, Kansas in the year 1959. At that same time, Shakey's Pizza was also creating a monopoly in the West Coast, but due to the Carney brothers' standardized operations and building designs to challenge the competition with Shakey's, they stood out, and their unique building exterior and layout were highly recognized by many customers in its 314 operating stores nationwide. Now, looking back at those years, one couldn't help but be awed that Pizza Hut now has successfully established its name with its customers through its franchises all over the world. With its well known corporate logo flag, Pizza Hut sells sumptuous pizzas to different countries in four popular different sizes: the personal or solo size, small, medium and large. Each has a variety of toppings to choose from which people have learned to love and crave to eat since they first sold their very first pan pizza. Various specialties for pizza lovers are offered such as pepperoni, meat, veggie, supreme, super supreme, double cheeseburger and the recently introduced Pizza Mia. They also sell Stuffed crust pizza, Hand-tossed, Thin 'N Crispy, Dippin' Strips, the Edge pizza and the Big New Yorker Pizza. All are popular to satisfy your hunger, whether you are dining alone or with your best buddies. Pizza Hut is functioning mutually to run great restaurants globally in order to be the best at making and serving the best pizza in every town. That simply means that they are eager to go to any lengths just to make their customers enjoy their dining experience at Pizza Hut. Well, the way things are going, it is clear that Pizza Hut is here to stay. After all, who couldn't say no to the mouth watering goodness their pizzas have to offer?
by: The Flagman
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Nowadays, we should be always alert and conscious of our surroundings wherever we are and whatever we do. We have to be aware and be on guard as we walk confidently along the sidewalks showing no sign of fear. Hazards in a workplace can also happen from a number of sources including, poor workplace design, poorly designed workplace, and incorrect equipment installation, use, inspection, service, repair and maintenance. You can never really tell when and where a hazard will occur. Though hazards are everywhere, there are a handful of safety tips to avoid danger. When you are traveling, you must dress casually and appropriately. Do not wear excessive jewelries and reduce wallet or purse contents. When in airports, proceed directly through security checks to ensure safety upon boarding and immediately go to boarding areas. Security checks include preparing yourself for security screening, not just on your hand carries but also your check-in luggage and you as well. Avoid the hassle of additional inspection by not carrying prohibited items such as knives, any flammable liquids and containers, toy weapons, or any item that may be considered dangerous regardless of its intended use. These are only few of the airport policies and these don't only apply for airport security but also with other public transportation, as well. When you are at the airport, you will see different airport flags, giving you a hint of the don'ts and dos while boarding the plane. The flight stewardess will provide all the passengers with important airplane safety tips should hazards become apparent. Danger flags can also be seen everywhere to give everyone a quick alert to prevent danger especially when riding a train or in a bus. It is better to be always alert when traveling by public transportation and know the various locations of emergency alarms and exits for your safety.
by: The Flagman
Monday, January 12, 2009
A car enthusiast is somebody who has an extraordinary obsession with his own car. He is the type of person who wants to spend most of his time bathing his car and probably do anything to make his car exactly the way it was when it was brand new or even far better. In short, he is one who sees cars as an extension of their own body. Most of the time a car enthusiast tends to be anxious with every detail about his car and has the habit of regularly checking on his 'baby' many times during the day Often times they spend their weekends beside it and even pull up a chair to sit down beside their car just thinking about the accessories it needs seemingly having a never ending quest to upgrade it. People who truly love their cars like to spice them up with personal touches to make their vehicles stand out in a crowd. Custom car flags are one of the great accessories when traveling long distance to games or racing tournaments. Car flags are usually seen in racing cars, and for many people it is a great way to show their pride for their own country and even to their sports team as well. Not only that, they also signify the uniqueness of a certain individual. Car fanatics usually put their car flags outside the car window. It is lightweight and made of unbreakable plastic pole as it was designed to fit easily onto the window of the car. The car flag pole takes only seconds to clip on so enthusiasts do not need to worry as it will not scratch or damage their car windows. It depends on the preference of the car owner as what color or design he wishes for his car flags. It can really be anything he likes-either a printed one with design, a simple plain colored flag or even a checkered one will do. One thing is important, though, it must be unique and catchy to everyone's eyes.
by: The Flagman
Friday, January 9, 2009
Siargao surfing is an island that leans north eastern tip of Mindanao which is located in the south east of the Philippine Archipelago and lays the Philippine trench, which gets to a depth of 10,057 meters. How do you get to Siargao Surfing? Well if you are from Manila, Siargao is more or less 800 kilometers south east. So from Manila you can take a plane to Mactan Airport which is in Cebu and then from Cebu you can choose whether to take another flight from Cebu to Siargao which is via Tandag or to catch the Supercat ferry from Cebu to Surigao which will take you about four hours to get there. Siargao surfing is known throughout the world as one of the first class quality break which explains why Siargao now has its annual international competition every October, sponsored by the provincial government of Surigao del Norte. The main attraction of Siargao is essentially the superb and gigantic waves where every surfer loves to dance with their surfboards. Not only that, you will also be dazzled and attracted to its colorful street pole banners. Siargao is not only for surfing, the island offers various interesting outdoor activities to its visitors, and everyone can explore the island through kayaking, snorkeling, diving, island hopping and a lot more. With the superb white sand beaches and crystal clear waters similar to Boracay Island, surely anyone will love to stay. Interesting islets like Guyam, Naked Island and Daku are few of the closest to Siargao.Fram afar, you can already see the pavements being decorated with eye catching summer banners designs you will surely love. The breathtaking view will entice you to go island hopping with your loved ones by renting a small boat called banca. So if you're tired of living your life in the city, why not explore and have a vacation in Siargao and experience the diverse kind of adventure to chill out with your friends or loved ones.
by: The Flagman
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Flags the world over differ in design and colors. But nothing is more different than the Nepali flag. All other flags are quadrilateral. Nepal's flag however is a combination of two single pennants. This is the testament of how entrenched Hinduism is in the country as Hindu flags are shaped just like the flag of Nepal - a pennon. But while the shape of Nepal's flag is about the religious inclination of the country, the reason for the two pennons is a secular one, but nevertheless, still deeply entrenched in the history and tradition of the country of Nepal. The Himalayan country of Nepal was ruled by a monarchy until recently when the country's constituent assembly voted to become a republic. The country was ruled by the Rana dynasty for more than 200 years. The two pennons in the Nepali flag represent the different branches of the country's previous rulers. The color of the flag is that of the flower rhododendron, the national flower of Nepal. This color also signifies victory in war. The border of the flag is blue, which is the color of peace and harmony which has been prevalent in the region since the time of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, who was born in Nepal. Until 1962, the Nepali flag's emblem, the sun and the crescent moon had human faces. The human faces were removed to modernize the flag. Nepal right now is at a crossroads. With the Maoist party in power, they have declared the country as a secular state abolishing the time honored official status as a Hindu Kingdom. With this much changes, one wonders if they are also going to change their national symbol, the unique Nepali flag, specially because of the religious and monarchical symbolism embedded in it. If that happens, truly the flag of Nepal will become a thing of the past, and probably a souvenir worth keeping.
by: The Flagman
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
People today are moving in a fast track, rushing with their work or doing business. Everyone is so busy and everything is in a hustle. The only way to catch people's attention these days is through creative advertising that is convenient for them to notice or take a glimpse at. Advertising is a continuous trend amongst people. They get to conceptualize new styles and approaches to entice people in buying their product. Promotional materials come in various forms, so it's a strategic move for the owners or promoters to choose the best that would give a good feedback from people. What would you do if you are the promoter? This was the question they raised to several people with different lifestyles. Everyone has its own unique personality in looking at things and situations. Few persons gave their own perception as to the best way in promoting various business products and services. They say if they were the promoter of a certain product like soap, a good way of enticing people's attention would be a full body advertisement portrayed by a sexy flawless woman holding the soap, some might say that it focuses more on the woman not the soap; few more people see the object and not the character of the product. With these answers, people treat it as a stereotypical method. However, the majority voted for one of the most innovative suggestions, though it used the old method of using good old flags, it is modified and reinvented to become a new style. And that is using custom twirler flags which are more convenient and handy. It's a captivating flag wherein a customizable design is possible. It is enriched with different hues, and color combinations to create an attractive, catchy text or picture embedded graphics on the flag to provide the flare when seen by passersby and motorists. A positive note on this product includes the bag and the pole. It's handy and cheap applicable in different themes either indoor or outdoor. Definitely a plus when used for trade shows, business events, or even for a personal design in your home.
by: The Flagman
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
One of the first empires that emerged in the West African region and settled on the area of what is now Niger, is the Songhai Empire. The majority of the inhabitants of Niger are descendants of the nomadic Tuareg that formed large confederations and became the dominant ethnic group for most of the 18th century. The country became independent from France in 1960, but its influence could still be felt all around, in fact the design of the Niger National Flag is based on the French tricolor. It uses three equal horizontal bands orange (top), white, and green, and an orange rondel at the center. A number of sources, though unofficial describes the symbolic interpretation of the colors as; the upper orange band represents the northern regions of the Sahara Desert, others refers to it as the Sahel; the central white band is for purity, and oftentimes refers to the Niger River; and the lower green band is symbolic of both hope and the fertile regions of southern Niger. The rondel or the orange circle in the center of the white band is said to represent the sun or the nation's independence. The period after its independence from France, Niger experienced single-party and military rule until 1991, when the reigning government was forced by the inhabitants to to allow multi-party elections that resulted in a democratic government in 1993. But, political infighting lay siege to the government and a coup was staged but democracy was later restored in that same year. Even with democracy enmeshed in government, the years of uncertainty had placed Niger as one of the poorest and least developed countries of the world, with the economy based on subsistence farming.
by: The Flagman
Monday, January 5, 2009
Historical references, point to Al-Maghrib al aqsa as the farthest west which separates it from other regions in the Al-Maghrib (the west) Kingdoms. Since the Al-Maghrib Kingdom has been literally subdivided into different historical regions, the Al-Maghrib al aqsa is designated as the area of present day Morocco. Morocco is located due northwest of Africa, dominated by the Atlas Mountains that serves as buffer for the fertile coastal regions from the harsh Sahara. The nation is a constitutional monarchy ruled by King Mohammed VI since 1999, has claimed direct descent from the prophet Mohammad. As 99% of Moroccans are Muslims, mosques, minarets, bazaars typify the nation's landmarks. Although Spanish and French influence could also be seen in enclaves like Ceuta and Melilla. Like its history and people, Morocco developed independently from the other region as could be gleamed from the design of the Flag of Morocco. While most countries were influenced by the Pan-African motif, Morocco stood pat and revived the age old use red and the seal of Solomon in the design of their national emblem. The flag is made of a red field with a black bordered interwoven green star (known as Solomons seal), a historical relic since the 17th century used during the Hassani Dynasty, but without the pentangle which was only added in 1915. Even during the French and Spanish colonial period, the same flag design had been in use. The population of Morocco is densely observed in cities like Fez, Casablanca, and Marrakech brought by the influx of rural people, in the lookout for better living conditions. Some migrate to other countries, to Spain and European Union nations to improve on their economic well-being.
by: The Flagman
Friday, January 2, 2009
The new era in advertising brings with it a breath of fresh options. What kind of advertising? It's neither the common banner nor the posters you can see in any establishment. It is a unique way of calling the people's attention in promoting a new product, making a new concept, a personalized design or simply flaunting their own name in the flag. This is not only a good catch in itself, but how it works just simply proves its worth. The physical built of the flag is placed in a vertical stand while the personalized text or design is placed. The common problem with flags is the wind however with the aerodynamic design is simply flutters with the wind as it sweeps the flag smoothly. Along the streets, almost all businesses try very hard to find their way to the crowd by showing their banners, promotions, and billboards. But, upon observing the people who are passing by one of the restaurants in the city, they looked like they couldn't help but get intrigued by this new style in marketing. The rush of the wind brings out the beauty of the text-inscribed flag which is displaying the food menus they serve. Customers are overwhelmed with excitement and just could not wait so they started to approach the restaurant and ordered something to eat as excitedly as they could. This gives me the thought that business is not all about the products or items you sell which convince customers to buy your stuff. Customers often flock to a new restaurant because of the good presentation they have on what they serve. This presentation can be a form of promotion not limited to the stereotype banners. And this is the new sensation they call is a flag, which is not just an ordinary flag but a special one. How does this one become special? It becomes extraordinary because it's personalized. They call it custom flutter flags, I'll go get one now.
by: The Flagman
Thursday, January 1, 2009
While glancing at the map of West Africa, one word "Nouakchott" struck me since it seems out of this world because even the pronunciation is hard to decipher. After pushing a few buttons on the computer, the Internet finally gave me a clear and concise information on the subject. Nouakchott is actually the capital city of Mauritania, how it got its name is however not clear. One thing is sure though, Mauritania was once part of the French West African empire until its independence in 1960. And like most African countries in the region, Mauritania opted to follow the Pan-African color scheme of Ethiopia in the design of its flag. But the influence of the French is not evident on the National Flag of Mauritania as the emblem has a green background with a yellow five-pointed star above an also yellow horizontal crescent (the closed side of the crescent is down). The crescent, the star, and the color green are traditional symbols associated with Islam, the religion of the majority of the residents of Mauritania. At present, half of the population of Mauritania still depends on agriculture and livestock for its livelihood, although many of the nomads subsistence farmers from birth were forced to migrate to the cities to evade the recurring drought that has devastated the countryside during the 70's and 80's. Although 50% of Mauritania is desert, it has extensive iron ore deposits which would account for over 40% of the total export revenues. Likewise the nation's coastal waters is among the most abundant fishing areas in the world that adds up to the country's revenues, but overfishing particularly by foreigners has threatened this valuable resource.
by: The Flagman
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