International Coffee Day: Wake Up and Smell the Coffee

Coffee is one of the topmost beverages in the world, and in the Philippines, it has become a staple drink due to its caffeine-addictive substance that people can't live without. Who wouldn't resist the aroma of freshly brewed coffee served in your favorite café or at home? Globally, it is best done with the ever-favorite cakes and pastries; donuts and croissants, while in the Philippines⁠— all over the archipelago, it is best served with local bread and delicacies like freshly baked pandesal, puto, and bibingka. 

Like Western Visayas, people drink coffee partnered with suman, biko, and the most popular biscocho, the region's pride. Other areas would have their local delicacy that is best served with a hot coffee to start the day right and to get energized any time of the day. Whether for breakfast, snacks, or post-dinner, we love having a cup of coffee at any hour and place.

Filipinos have adapted to the global flavors of gourmet coffee. From purely black coffee Americano to the frothy cup of cappuccino and latté, we surely blend with the rest of the world. Now, we have a choice beyond the traditional hot black coffee; we also have a selection of whether to be served cold or iced and blended. No matter how pricey it is, espresso coffee has been our favorite beverage because we are now after the experience. 

When we go to our favorite cafés, the baristas greet us warmly, and they prepare and serve our coffee heartily. Cafés have been part of our lives through the years. It is our go-to place for delicious coffee and to enjoy conversation with friends, business meetings, or freelance tasks; indeed, our site gives a beautiful ambiance and a delightful experience.

As we enjoy a sip of our favorite coffee, we must remember the coffee farmers who sweat out to carefully plant, harvest and roast good quality coffee beans. From farm to cup, it is truly a journey of the farmers to give us the most delicious beverage we will enjoy. From Tagum City in the South to Lipa City in Batangas and going up in the mountains of the Cordillera, we have our hardworking coffee farmers who are coffee entrepreneurs. For every cup of freshly brewed local coffee beans, we help support our local coffee farmers in their livelihood.

It is also proven by scientific research that coffee consumption has a lot of health benefits due to the higher level of antioxidant that prevents certain types of cancers, leading to healthier cells and longevity. For health and wellness, a cup of coffee daily gives us energy and protection from free radicals. Others would consume not just 1 cup but up to 4 cups or more daily, and they are certainly well -- just enough caffeine for daily consumption.

Today, the world is celebrating International Coffee Day. It is not just a simple beverage, but it's now a lifestyle. We help promote coffee and the excellent benefits we can gain from it. Wherever we are in the world, no matter what language we can utter, Koffi, kopi, kape, and Cafe, we just mean one thing: our craving and the need for a daily dose of coffee. It has been our trusted health partner and part of our success and life's journey.

© 2019 Del Cusay

When September Ends: Timeless Memories

Here comes September: the beginning of the Merriest season in the Philippines. The start of the Autumn season or Fall in the West. The beginning of many beautiful things and the end of not-so-glorious days.

So many memorable events happened this month. Another year added to my life: the beginning of an extraordinary life cycle.    Birthday Special: Love and Gratitude are about blessings received and wishes that came true and now making things work out of the blue.

What makes September special is the Birthday of the Mother of Christ. It was on September 8 when the universe conspired for what my heart desired. I prayed to our Divine Mother, so I made this day special. She listens and prays for us all.   Heart's Desire: An Answered Prayer is a testimony of the intercession of the Holy Mother, the Blessed Mary. This day will forever be memorable and to be celebrated.

Before September ends, we have  Birthday Special: Celebrating our Mother's 66th Birthday on the 24th. A simple family gathering over dinner made it unique and meaningful.

What made this September memorable was the soulful conversation with Reverend Father Jeffrey Estrella while having lunch at the beachfront restaurant on September 17. He is the Parish Priest of the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Lomboy Parish. 

We also had a family weekend getaway at the beach with my grandfather on Sunday, September 22nd. That was like extended summer fun. The waves on the shore are so calming, and the sea view on the hilltop is breathtaking.

On the road to the summit, we visited our favorite place, Bato Arobo, on September 23rd. The natural scenery of the mountains is pure bliss. This is where we spend time with natural wonders while taking deep breaths, meditating, and enjoying serenity. 

When September ends, my heart will be filled with love because I have the best people in my life who protect, care for, and support me in whatever I do and to whoever I may become. September will always be memorable, and its joy is so meaningful.

© 2019 Del Cusay

Living the Best Life From Metropolitan to the Countryside

Life in rural areas may seem unexciting or tedious to some people, just like my fellow millennials, and at some point, having a feeling of lower energy due to the lack of more significant and better opportunities offered to them.

That's exactly how I felt a little over a decade after finishing college and getting my professional license. Back then, I see myself working in an urban area, a bigger city that is vibrant and more alive.

That dream became a reality. I lived and worked in Metro Manila. That is the city of dreams for many people, especially my generation. It is a place where we can enjoy the best of the corporate world. Working in a great and big company. Wearing corporate attire. Earning better compensation. Living the best life. Those are the great things about urban living; we have the best of everything.

Despite some levels of success and career fulfillment, there comes a time of self-realization about what success means and what we must sacrifice to achieve our most coveted dreams.

I have experienced city life, which is highly livable in the Philippines. In Metro Manila, from the former Capital - Quezon City of the north, down to the finest Business District of Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. The fantastic mountain resort of Baguio City in the Cordilleras and the Finest culture of Iloilo City in the Visayas. Those place I have lived and worked offers the best life with the highest National livability index. Rural areas or towns are not even considered livable due to a lack of economic development and other factors.

After more than a decade of living and working in the top livable cities in the Philippines, I see economic development and opportunities in the countryside, an emerging local economy through good governance and better planning. 

Despite the economic development and prosperity in more fabulous cities like Metro Manila, people living and working in those cities are experiencing the downside of urban living.

For years, Metro Manila has been having difficulty solving issues on livability. For several years I have experienced problems with public transport as a commuter. I have suffered from falling in a long line on a metro rail due to glitches and a lack of train coaches. Due to traffic congestion, I have endured hours on the bus on the way home after work. We have suffered from days of rotational water interruption. Those are part of the basic needs we have endured, and the cycle seems to go on year after year. We have suffered from it, but that has become our worst reality.

There are more things we have sacrificed. Our health has been at risk due to the stress those problems have caused. More people are getting sick, maybe not due to the nature of work, but due to stress, anxiety, and fatigue caused by air pollution and travel time on the road, from home to the workplace, and vice versa. I endured almost 5 hours of travel time in a day when I worked in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig while living in Caloocan City. That is from North to Southbound and vice versa. I was not alone. I am among the thousands who share the same fate in the Metro. Those are the sacrifices we have to endure for a living. But that may have come to an ending.

Living in the Metro is excellent, but there are options here in a city that is no longer healthy but only for survival's sake.

There's life in the countryside, in the Rural area we used to live. We may have temporarily left Rural living, but it will always be in our hearts. While others make endearing sacrifices just to live their dreams in the Metro, we are fortunate to have a countryside we can return to.

In the countryside, we enjoy vast land and greenery. We have the best natural landscape and scenery. We breathe cleaner air and drink spring water. We are awakened and greeted by the chirping of the birds at dawn. We can see the incredible sunrise while having a cup of coffee. We have a bright sunny day and look up above the blue skies. We see the mountains, the hills, and the valleys. We can swim in a river or waterfalls. We can witness a beautiful sunset. At night we can go stargazing. We go to bed and fall asleep early. We have a goodnight's sleep. These are not our vacation escapes or fantasy. This is not a dream but our living reality, which best describes the place we love to be.

That's a quality life! Not much extravagance, but only a natural living that rural life offers.

In the city, people can build a fortune amidst chaos and suffering; in the countryside, we can live a life of simplicity and serenity. In the town, we define success by the number of wealth, while in the country, we feel successful when we are in perfect health.

No wonder, in today's time, more people invest in real estate properties in emerging Provincial areas even though they are already established in the cities. Some would acquire a townhouse property. Others would buy a lot for future house construction. More families spend their vacation on an eco-farm. More people patronize farm tourism activities to escape the city life's hustle and bustle.

We developed our family country farm with the Divine's grace and built our dream farmhouse. This family real estate would be where we partly live a quality life together. We make our dreams and build a better life... and a better community of Divine love and light.

© 2019 Del Cusay

Birthday Special: Love and Gratitude

Birthday marks a new beginning, a new cycle of life. It is one of the most pleasant days of remembering how the past year had been and how we were fair in life's dealing, how we lived our best life and braved all the challenges that had arrived.

If life is a cycle of ups and downs, of good times and bad times, then I have gone through its roller-coaster ride. Some bikes were good enough that they gave me more energy and willpower to execute ideas and turn them into reality. Whereas some cycles triggered lower emotions that produced lower frequency or vibrations.

The life cycle just before the birthday was a purification time to break negative thoughts and obsolete beliefs. Letting go of unpleasant emotions and moving forward for a brighter side; a more excellent cycle of renewal and strong will. 

On this day, I was born in this world more than 3 decades ago, and it marks the first cycle of life that gives meaning and power. The most critical time of the year is celebrating our precious birthdate. This is when we provide wishes for ourselves and extend them to our loved ones. 

The gift of a good life is the fundamental source of gratitude, and the goodness of life is shared with love and compassion with my family, friends, and dear ones.

On this new birth year cycle, one of the best gifts would be "a break" to take it slow, stop for a while, and build enough energy to appreciate the things I already have. To express my deepest love and gratitude for my parents, who gave me life, enjoyed God's natural wonders, and lived a simple and slow-paced life. 

Today, it's just another simple celebration of the start of another life cycle. Another year has been added, but age certainly is just a number. As I grow old, I continue to live my most extraordinary life and aspire to be a reflection of Divine love and light for my family and those people I will meet along the road.

Another life cycle will rock my world, but I wanted my faith and to stay above circumstances beyond my control. I have conquered my weaknesses, and this time is the beginning of making the best things possible through Divine power, love, and light. The cycle of life is God's greatest delight. 

© 2019 Del Cusay

Heaven in Our Hearts: Soaring High on Earth

Environmental protection and preservation are what the world needs. Nowadays, we hear about natural and man-made disasters affecting our environment and ecosystem, which significantly affect how we live. 

We may see or hear about deforestation, illegal logging, forest wildfires, and illegal mining from the news. Some of these activities are natural, while others may result from massive industrialization and greed. We may hear about it and have witnessed some of it.

In the Philippines, we have several groups and personalities: environmental warriors, environmental activists, and Philanthropists who deeply show their love and concern for our ecological welfare. One of those personalities I genuinely admire, and respect is Gina Lopez, who advocated and founded several foundations supporting environmental protection.

I consider Gina Lopez as the Mother Teresa of the Philippines. As a missionary in Europe, Africa, and India for 2 decades, she has developed a Divine consciousness by devoting her time and energy to serving the marginalized, underprivileged, and poor in love and spirit.

With the higher consciousness she attained in her mission abroad, she returned to her origin in the Philippines to spearhead the Foundation of one of the country's largest media companies. She founded the Bantay Kalikasan, which cause is to protect the environment and natural resources. She was also active in the rehabilitation effort of the Pasig River, and one of the advocates for the La Mesa Ecopark considered the last and remaining forest in Metro Manila.

Team building at the LA Mesa Ecopark in May 2011

Gina Lopez may not be able to witness how far her efforts have gone since she passed away, but her spirit, as she said, will always be alive. She will remain a well-loved personality since she has touched so many lives through her breakthrough projects and various social development programs.

Gina Lopez was a visionary. She has a great love for Filipino people, and once she uttered that if 'heaven is made from people's hearts, she thinks that we can build heaven in the Philippines' and profoundly believes that we can fly high and make things happen. This is her vision, and if we think we can do it, we will experience a piece of heaven on earth, not a fantasy, but our shared reality.

Gina Lopez envisioned a natural environment that is sustainable through Ecological tourism or known as Farm tourism. She was one of those who believed that we can achieve prosperity through harmony with nature.

As an environmental advocate, I patronize the emerging rise of the country's farm tourism industry, and it will become a living trend not only today but in the years to come.

Our love for our country can be shown through the kind of environment that we live in. We envision the next generations breathing fresher air, being under the shade of a tree, seeing the forest, and benefiting from the natural resources we have protected and preserved.

We may have lost a strong leader and Environmental protector, but her legacy will remain in our hearts as she envisioned the heaven we all deserve to live in.

© 2019 Del Cusay

Weekend Fitness Inspirations for Better Health

It's summertime, and people are into different fun and exciting activities. It may be the ocean breeze that makes people swim on the beaches. Others may enjoy the long ride reaching the mountain peak, offering the best view of the valley and the sky. Some may enjoy bonding moments with their family in their hometown while on summer vacation. Endless bucket lists to fulfill desires to unwind, feel relaxed, and live the most significant moments of their lives. These are what different personalities are up to as they experience the hottest season just before the onset of the monsoon.

Summertime brings us closer to our goals as we finally execute plans in action. As my new year's resolution, I have set some goals to shed a few pounds, maintain an ideal weight, and get fit. Forget about Travel Inspirations momentarily and focus more on regaining better physical health. This way, I can do many activities and opportunities as I get back on track feeling lighter and healthier. It seems like a simple goal, but determination and the willpower to make a brand-new start is the key to making it happen. Often it's just a plan, and when a cycle of procrastination attacks, nothing happens, and the goal is dying, and worse is to have just expired. 

All these years, I have learned to put an expiration on the goal being set to accomplish. Never wait for the right or perfect moment, but have the will to start and discover ways to improve as you get closer to success. Nothing in life comes easily from the start. 

Willpower always sets us to burn our desires to become fast like a car or higher like an airplane. Our dream, it's limitless! Our pace sets us closer to the destination and to winning. Like a race, we burn the fuel of passion and perseverance and stay on track with agility and endurance. 

I am determined, so I have to start... on my own time... my own pace. This summer season is ideal for physical activities as fitness enthusiasts bring awareness to people about the value of health and wellness. I have witnessed the 2-day Fitstreet, an annual event at Bonifacio high street, BGC, offering various body, mind, and spirit activities. Non-stop Zumba of different classes encourages everyone to relieve stiffness and start swaying the hips and losing love handles. Marathon is fun for those who would love to go the extra mile and burn calories fast while strengthening their core.  Yoga and meditation are pure bliss. It's done just before the sun shines so bright in the serene environment. The Power of Meditation is alive! It's been a while since I last practiced it regularly, but the body, mind, and spirit must sync well for better awareness and moral consciousness. 

Fitstreet was created to inspire and motivate people to step up, move up, get started, and finish what they started. In years to come, we may live in a highly digital society, but being aware and conscious of what truly matters makes life precious. 

A lifetime commitment to physical fitness might not be a goal for now, but a single step is enough to start the game until we lose the energy and can no longer carry out the things we used to love. As long as we have the power and the will to live, we can go the farthest distance and live the most extraordinary life we deserve. 

© 2018 Del Cusay

Physical Fitness For Better Health

Lifestyle change is hard to commit since it requires discipline and consistency. A dietary change, for instance, is hard, especially when living and working surrounded by instant or fast food. That is more convenient for always-on-the-go people with little time to prepare food. The physical effect could be worse since it makes people obese and prone to hypertension and a higher cholesterol level. This urban lifestyle is making people unhealthy. Looking fit but in the process of developing symptoms like pre-hypertension or hypercholesterolemia.

It was in 2016 when I felt something was wrong with my health. The heaviness on my head, accompanied by cluster pain, makes me sick. I experienced an increase in heart rate and hyperventilation. That time I felt anxious about what was happening to me. Until I sought medical help and through diagnostic and laboratory tests, it was discovered that I have a very high total cholesterol and LDL or bad cholesterol. In medical parlance, I have hypercholesterolemia and am predisposed to cardiovascular diseases leading to heart attack or stroke if left untreated. That scares me whenever I think of the possible consequence of my chosen lifestyle.

I used to be a health trainer for about 4 years, and during those times, I have helped people get fit and healthier at all levels of health; physical, mental, emotional, and even spiritual. I used to teach physical exercises and breathing techniques for health and longevity. I have contacted more people in several cities in the Philippines and Asia. After leaving my role, I am back to the old ways; less exercise and a meat-based diet high in fat. I can't resist, or maybe I couldn't live without meat. I didn't bother since I could eat anything without getting sick. I am not obese, and I don't feel unhealthy. One day, I was convinced that an unhealthy and unbalanced diet was terrible for my physical health since its manifestations bothered me.

In November 2017, I consulted a physician again and had a laboratory check; the result was still the same. My cholesterol level remains high, and I was prescribed to take an anti-cholesterol drug and make a dietary change. Another test 2 months after, and the result was consistent though I have taken medicine but have ignored food choices. I just can't avoid eating fast food almost daily for about a year. However, I was alarmed about people getting strokes at a very young age, and I didn't want to experience it. So I have learned to ignore fast food, though not totally, and I try to drink less soda. I started eating a lighter and preferred pescetarian diet; fish with some vegetables. Then I felt good that I could survive the dietary change. One more thing is physical fitness is part of the lifestyle change. I used to be physically active, so I believe I can start again.

Living in a highly urbanized city should not be an excuse not to become physically fit and healthy. BGC, just a few steps from my new place, is suitable for exercise. Built as a recreation park, Track 30th  is for those interested in jogging, brisk walking, and breathing exercises.  You can see people of all ages, young and old, who are into fitness, even for a few hours. It's beautiful when urban planners now know the importance of having a piece of nature with trees and natural elements that make people grounded. There are more giant stones where one could sit to relax and meditate. That was bliss when I finally had the energy and enthusiasm to return to fitness for better health. Track 30th is an excellent place to start, and as I continue to explore, I should get more determined about the end result; to feel lighter, calmer, and healthier -- free from diseases and untoward symptoms.

The post-exercise meal should have been light, and to have dropped by at my favorite bakery is also a fitspiration. A few pieces of Pandesal stuffed with Spanish-style sardines and coffee are enough for carbohydrate and dietary protein requirements, plus the antioxidant for free radicals. I should learn to prepare healthy meals and snacks to improve my health and achieve wellness. With exercise and a proper diet, I can become a living testimony that we can achieve health and fitness and fight diseases through appropriate lifestyle changes.

I am inspired to share this journey with others who share the same story or those busy professionals struggling to commit to a total lifestyle change. Physical fitness starts with a commitment followed by endurance and perseverance. It's not only today; I want to maintain what is ideal.  A robust physical body also follows a strong mind and spirit. That's all we need.


© 2018 Del Cusay

6th Year Blogging Anniversary: Reminiscence of The Glorious Times

We will never know how far we have gone or how great we have become when we don't push ourselves to our limits, knowing who we really are and what we can do. That's when we start our journey to limitless potential and possibilities. Enjoying the moment of overcoming obstacles on the way to the peak. We may have conquered the summit and felt victorious, but that moment isn't forever, and we continue the journey back to where life seems normal and easy. That's the cycle of life. No permanence, but just unending highs' and lows.'

I reminisce about the days when I followed my soulful desire and committed. It's not a major one. Not even an absolute commitment. I call it a passion — a lifestyle for a chosen few. This is to follow my desire to put my stories into writing. Blogging is a lifestyle that triggers emotions and can move people, not to be idolized but an inspiration that life is a series of levels comparable to a book. It has chapters and stands alone, pages, and a title.

As I write a title on every page or chapter, it highlights the wondrous journey of past, present, and future living. Not merely dwelling on the past but enjoying the moment, the power of now. That's the way it is. However, we envision a life ahead of our time. That's a gift of time travel; living may be light years earlier — to the extreme.

Today, November 5, is about remembering the past. On this day, about 6 years ago, I started to become a writer of my journey and destiny. As I recall, "Insights For A Fulfilling Life" was significant as I documented life's precious learning turned into wisdom from Sages of the East and West. It's about living in a more profound consciousness, a different state of being and planes of existence. That was surreal, for sure. 

As I began to be awakened, my life was still continuously changing. Some old ways of living and some great deeds are done. Awakening starts when we explore the deeper core of our being. Our soulful quest for meaning and understanding the chaos and adversity happens to everyone and our world.

On November 5, 2011, I started to share about the gentle awakening through The Power of Meditation. It all started with light, an inspiration, a spark leading to action. Tremendous energy that was so powerful enough to change a personality. That's how it all began. Whenever I look back, it was a simple wish, a desire for something different and meaningful. It was granted, and I have gone through the test of time. Rough as it may have been, still on the journey of fine-tuning.

The first year of the blogging anniversary was about the Reminiscence of The Glorious Times. A run-through of the insights on my travels: interaction with people and exposure to different and bizarre cultures. A year after, the 2nd year was like a viral post the Western readers when I posted about Following Our Heart's Desire. Since then and up to date, it's the most read and shared blog post. I describe it as an ordinary but meaningful and significant post.

My ebook entitled "Heart's Desire: Journey to Success" came into reality as inspired by that post and was even accepted by Amazon for international readers. It was never easy, but I have learned to do it on my own, and beyond my wildest dreams, I have faith in myself to live upon my future desires that may be unimaginable. It's a journey, and along the way are crossroads. Sometimes, it will be good to feel defeated, and some days, like a champion — a winner.

On the 6th anniversary, a new chapter is celebrated: The Road Ahead is about living your most extraordinary life inspired by the light from within. This new chapter, it's about meaningful silence and experiencing and overcoming challenges. To overcome defeat and emerge as a winner based on personal definition of success.

As I said, this personal blog site, delcusay.com, is a masterpiece: a collection of stories shared by great people from great places, cultures, and events. This will continue to exist in the coming years, and I will always be delighted to share it with people who aspire to awaken their inner giant from within and share the light today and beyond.

© 2017 Del Cusay

Celebrating Chinese New Year 2017: An Auspicious Celebration

For centuries, Chinese immigrants from mainland China have established closer ties with the Filipinos. Since then, we have mutually embraced religious traditions and appreciated the rich culture and heritage that remains to be solid and lasting. Chinese merchants in the Philippines existed during the early years of civilization and became a great trading partner contributing to the robust economy and fortifying stronger relationships. 

Chinese people who have chosen to live and work in the Philippines were accepted by most Filipinos, and they have greatly influenced our culture and way of living.

Embracing the Chinese culture made a significant impact on our lives. Their beliefs, wisdom, and character are worth emulating. Chinese people have taught us how to live based on their life principles from the teachings of their religions. Buddhism brought to China, became a foundation of wisdom, humility, and compassion. These traits, which embody Buddhist philosophy, are the same guiding principles on how to live a meaningful and fulfilling life, a better life worth living. 

Looking back, celebrating the Chinese new year 2013 was a memorable experience in Binondo, Manila. Known as the oldest Chinatown in the world, it has shown great transformation and preservation of Chinese-Filipino culture. The old and preserved houses and commercial buildings symbolize love and respect for its culture and heritage. For years, Manila Chinatown has given positive energy and vibrance to visitors and traders, and they hold on to their beliefs passed on from generation to generation.

The Graceful Dragon and Lion Dance 

Good luck and prosperity are attributed to the colorful dance presentation where dancers have to mimic the movement of a lion and a dragon, a mythical creature. Both symbolize strength, wisdom, and power in Chinese ideology. These dances are more prevalent during the Chinese new year but are also presented in various Chinese cultural, religious, and political events. It is also a belief that these creatures ward off evil spirit and brings luck and fortune in business and life. Dancing graciously in the form of Chinese martial arts is a skill and has entertained visitors for its graciousness.

The lighting of firecrackers and fireworks

Lion dance with firecrackers lighting up on the street makes a joyous and wonderful celebration. During new year's Eve, the street lights up with colorful fireworks and fireworks, creating noise that is believed to drive away bad luck and attracts prosperity. The noise which irritates some is the same noise that brings wealth to the believers in the new year. This kind of activity initially enjoyed by the Chinese was also adopted by Filipinos and the world — such a significant influence they had.

Ang Pao is a symbol of wealth and abundance

On the busy street is a parade of generous people giving away 'ang pao' to the visitors. These small red envelopes with money on them give luck to the receiver. Financial abundance is significant to the Chinese; a year filled with economic prosperity is a blessing from God. Being poor is a mental disease, and an abundance mindset is the key to success — a belief that brings wealth into our lives.

Chinese people hold many beliefs for personal, career, business, and life in general. Some ideas include a collection of round-shaped fruits for never-ending prosperity. Tikoy, a gelatinous delicacy, is very popular and symbolizes sweetness and a closer relationship with the family. Restaurants offering authentic Chinese foods, including noodles, dumplings, and other treats, are essential for good luck. What else is on the list? Feng shui for prosperity and Chinese martial arts are many influences from years of Filipino-Chinese partnership.

The year of the fire rooster in Chinese astrology will bring positivity to everyone. A hopeful year starts with having a positive mindset and clearing off negative past experiences that prevent us from moving forward. 

Faith is essential for success; all the symbolism can bring prosperity if accompanied by hard work and perseverance.

The Filipino and Chinese friendship will remain strong in years to come as we build trusting relationships with camaraderie and warm acceptance regardless of one's cultural upbringing and philosophical beliefs.

© 2017 Del Cusay 

Celebrating Chinese New Year 2013: A New Beginning

The celebration of the Chinese new year is based on the belief that the lunar calendar month marks the beginning of the spring season. The Chinese widely observe it in many countries where they have formed a community known as the 'Chinatown.'

Chinese new year brings hope, good luck, and prosperity to people. It is the beginning of another year full of positive aspirations to achieve for self, family, and community. The colorful festivities in dominant red bring abundance and spare negativity in any form. On this particular day, people wear red color shirt and make home decorations in red that symbolizes prosperity. Since most Chinese are engaged in business, they always put something red in their buildings to attract wealth for the new year and beyond.

Binondo, one of Manila's busiest and most populated districts, is the place for the Filipino-Chinese community, popularly called 'Tsinoy.' Although they are found in various areas of the Philippines, the significant population and highest concentration of their population is located in the Chinatown of Binondo, Manila.

Lion dance along Ongpin St. Binondo, Manila

I was lucky to have witnessed and celebrated the event with the 'Tsinoys' in Binondo. My trip started with a bit of prayer in the Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz, known as the 'Binondo Church.' This is where the 'Tsinoys' of the Christian faith usually go to pray and strengthen their spiritual life.

A few steps from the church are where the journey commences, in the old street of Ongpin. A variety of Chinese merchandise offers products and services on this busy street. Gold shops of high quality can be found in this little yet vibrant place. Restaurants catering to authentic Chinese cuisine, including the 'President's Grand Palace' and the 'President's tea house,' relax your senses. 

Shops cater to Chinese delicacies like the famous 'Eng Bee Tin,' which produces tikoy and hopia in different variants and flavors. I've seen people falling in a long line just to satisfy their cravings for this food that is said to bring good luck. The 'tikoy' is made of sticky glutinous rice flour, thus symbolizing a family and relationship that is well bonded according to Chinese norms.

Red lanterns in Chinatown Mall to welcome the new year

The most common business in Ongpin is the lucky charms and decors. There is so much jewelry for different purposes depending on form and color. One has to wear a particular bracelet or necklace to attract prosperity and drive away bad luck. There are red lanterns in various sizes and forms for home decoration to symbolize wealth and good luck.

One of the most exciting parts is witnessing the lion dance. This mythical Chinese creature dances gracefully as it is maneuvered by several dancers. They perform lion dances from one shop to another for an opportunity to receive angpao or the red envelope with money. They have always succeeded in entertaining business owners with a well-rehearsed and choreographed presentation.

There is also a dragon dance, which is quite long and carried by several dancers. Like the lion dance, it is also a powerful mythical creature in Chinese culture. It is to spare negativity in business, the house, and the environment. Both dance presentations are seen throughout the new year's celebration in Binondo, particularly in Ongpin. It is colorful, entertaining, and attracts a crowd.

In a traditional Chinese family, 'angpao' is given to the unmarried and usually children. The little kids fall in line and patiently wait for their turn to receive 'angpao' from the elderly or their grandparents. They are expected to greet the happy new year in Chinese as they receive it, but they are not supposed to open the red envelope until they run away from the giver.

In The Chinese new year, there are several ways of greeting; in a language known to them. Whether you hear the greetings 'Kung Hei Fat Choi,' 'Gong Xi Fa Chai,' or 'Kiong He Huat Tsai,' it is a valid form of new year greetings. It does not literally mean 'Happy new year,' but it means congratulating and wishing someone for prosperity. 

Giant red lanterns are legendary Chinese handicraft that symbolizes good luck.

In the Philippines, the standard greetings are 'Kung Hei Fat Choi,' which has been made the standard in media and other printed publications. It is a Cantonese greeting, usually spoken in Hong Kong and Macau, but the 'Tsinoys' speaks 'Hokkien' and prefer the' Kiong Hee Huat Tsai' greeting. However, no matter what language or dialect is spoken for greetings, there is a spirit of understanding that sends a single message of 'Happy New Year!'.

The Chinatown Mall is where I have witnessed cultural presentations from different groups. They have presented charming Chinese folk dances, melodic choral, and exhibitions of Chinese martial arts like 'Wushu' and Tai Chi.' There is also some modern Chinese hip hop that captures the attention of the younger generations. It is a day-long event until the countdown for the new year is observed, and fireworks are witnessed to lighten up the evening. 

The Chinese people love to preserve their heritage, and they significantly influence culture, food, social norms, and beliefs. In the Philippines, people are familiar with 'Feng Shui," and this is attributed to good luck, happiness, and prosperity in businesses and houses. There is also the 'horoscope' where people consult their luck or destiny on a particular day, month, or year depending on the zodiac sign and animal sign you were born. Also, Filipinos have been fond of eating noodles and soups brought by the Chinese since long ago.

Although the world constantly evolves and the culture of peace and freedom is changing, we should learn so many things from the Chinese. Perseverance and endurance at work, accompanied by humility and gratitude, made them succeed in their family, careers, and life. 

The Chinese culture has uniqueness, and their unique customs make us multi-cultured people. Our beliefs should not be restricted to what has been instilled since birth. Open-mindedness and acceptance of faith and cultural differences bring a peaceful and vibrant living. We learn from each other, and the wisdom gained truly brings good luck and prosperity in our lives no matter who and what we are; and no matter who we will become.

© 2013 Del Cusay

Pasinaya 2013: Rediscovering Philippine Arts & Culture

In today's modern times, I still recognize that the past is interrelated with the present, and what we are today is the result of what has transpired in the past. Hence our artistic abilities and cultural heritage should be preserved and passed on from generation to generation.

The Philippine culture has given us a glimpse of the glorious past through various artistic renditions that make us feel the unity and camaraderie of being a Filipino. It is in our culture to be creative and artistic as a means of emotional expression. It is something that bridges the gap between loyalty and colonial mentality. It creates solidarity as a nation and everlasting bliss in the hearts of Filipinos living throughout the world.

To enliven the Philippine culture and arts, the Cultural Center of the Philippines created the Pasinaya festival to fulfill Filipino artists' and cultural enthusiasts' desires and passions in various genres. "Pasinaya" is a Filipino term that means a formal opening. This year's theme pays tribute to Chinese arts and culture's influence on our lives as Filipinos.

The Chinese have long been part of Philippine history and culture, and their massive influence remains. It was an excellent opportunity to witness and embrace Filipino and Chinese arts and culture through the Pasinaya festival.

Dubbed the largest national multi-arts festival, the 'Pasinaya' presented memorable cultural presentations and art exhibits in almost all CCP venues. The main theater lobby was full of visitors, primarily students and professors from different schools, patiently waiting for the next event at the 'Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo,' where the resident companies of the CCP are doing their shows, including the Philippine Madrigal Singers, The Bayanihan Philippine National Folk Dance Company; Ballet Philippines and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.

There were several presentations and activities in genres like dance, theater, music, films, visual arts, and exhibits. It was presented by thousands of Filipino artists in different country regions. There were various shows like lion dance, fan dance, and modern hip-hop dance along with the closed street venue of the CCP.

There were also dance, music, and stage drama workshops for children and adults to learn and enhance their skills.

In the main theater ramp, several groups presented folk dances. Their graceful interpretation of colorful costumes has entertained the crowd of both local and foreign audiences. It was a great moment to watch the young performers across the country showcasing their dance skills in classical Filipino music. 

From elementary up to college, I was like them, being a member of the school dance troupe and presenting different folk dances on stage. The joy felt while performing before the audience is quite reminiscent, and why I patronize Filipino cultural presentations and activities.

The main theater of 'Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo' is where I spent most of the time witnessing the performances of the resident companies. I was delighted to watch the 'Bayanihan Cultural Dance Company' when they presented beautiful folk dances. They have presented the 'Pandango sa Ilaw and 'Wasiwas,' both popular Philippine folk dances that made me proud of being a former folk dancer who happens to have presented those two dances way back in high school and college.

The Philippine folk dance is truly an epitome of grace, grandeur, and refined ways that are becoming obsolete in today's modern living.

The Performers of the Pasinaya Festival 2013 during the gala night

The presentation and rendition of the Philippine Madrigal Singers is truly soulful singing that captures the audience's emotions. Their company is undeniably one of the world's best and most awarded chorales. It has won prestigious awards and recognition from international chorale competitions. The 'Madz,' as they call it, sings in a semi-circle without the aid of a conductor. Their soft and angelic voices deserve applause from the audience regardless of musical genre, from classical and folkloric music to contemporary music.

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra rendered an enchanting melody of some classical symphonies and even modern popular Filipino music under their music director Maestro Oliver Ochanine. They received numerous applause from the audience, who appreciated what authentic music should be. Their mastery of musical instruments is majestic and produces stunning rhythmic sounds. My regard for classical music and symphonies will remain my appreciation for this artistic, lyrical masterpiece.

The 'Pasinaya Festival 2013' brought lessons and new learning. Our culture is diverse and rich —it is a heritage. Thus, there is a need to preserve, protect, love, care, and respect. Our arts and culture are what we are Filipinos and should show to the world.

© 2013 Del Cusay

Alluring Walk at the Japanese Garden

A little sanctuary in the busy Metropolis of Manila is a Japanese garden to honor the friendship between the two great cultures. The garden near Rizal Park offers nature lovers a serene environment suitable for strolling and meditating. 

Some essential elements make it an ideal Japanese garden with some Filipino twists. The park is well maintained but needs some improvement to make it more modern and Japanese-like.

A little Japanese pagoda serves as the main entrance, with Japanese grass on the aisle that is a pleasantly alluring walk towards the greener foliage of the garden. The landscape makes it a good place for the growing trees and shrubs and the lush greenery ambiance that genuinely soothes the senses making it healthy for an early morning walk and exercise.

Inside is the veranda for relaxation or other activities like meditation or recollection. One just needs to sit down and relax and enjoy the stillness of the place and the calmness it offers. A momentary relief from stress is experienced if one has to do deep breathing and physical awareness.

The lawn on the hilly side, with shrubs and Japanese bamboo, looks revitalizing. It made me realize its resilience against the wind breeze as it gently sways and bent but remains firmly rooted on the ground. Like in life, people are sometimes bent by struggles and miseries but must stay flexible and rooted like a Japanese bamboo. The most challenging moments in life may have been thrown out, but like a Japanese bamboo, it remains to stand still and go with the natural flow.

The Japanese bamboo looks thin and weak but has survived the extreme weather and even the aftermath of a typhoon. There's no room to look down on oneself or others despite who and what you are. Like bamboo, people may look weak but are strong and continue to grow and achieve the maximum result.

Although an arch bridge is more elegant, a flat bridge across the pond is fantastic if one has to reach the other side of the garden. Built-in concrete and wooden material add a little aesthetics and charm to the park.

A pebbled pathway offers an alluring walk while sightseeing the evergreen trees, rock formations, and ornaments. The garden is enclosed in a perimeter fence, giving exclusivity to some local and foreign tourists who have witnessed the place's attractiveness.

A piece of art commonly displayed in a Japanese garden is a 'gong,' a percussion instrument used in ancient Japanese tradition to honor the presence of a higher authority. It has a low and monotone sound, but when struck forcefully can reach its maximum loudness. A visitor can strike the gong with the mallet using minimal force to produce a sound. Succeeding strikes can be made strongly, producing different tones if desired.

Visiting the Japanese garden is worthwhile, and coming back can be irresistible. An excellent place to escape from too much environmental noise and to give oneself a rejuvenating experience⁠— not in a faraway place, but only in the heart of the metropolis.

© 2013 Del Cusay