The Rock Summer 2014

the
ROCK
Camp Rocks!
The Official Publication of The Rockwell Club
MAY 2014
Summer Campers on
their fun, fulfilling
activities
NEW!
Chef Jessie’s
menu for a
healthier
you
Plus: Check out what you
can sign up for!
Summer
Lovin’
Rockwell Club
members share
their favorite
vacation stories
Summer!
Let’s Toast to
Enjoy fresh, fruity drinks at Chef Jessie’s
RESORT PERK:
Hotel Kamana sanctuary resort and spa
What’s Inside:
THE ROCKWELL CLUB BASKETBALL LEAGUE
Summer Issue 2014
Play ball with fellow members by joining this annual tournament!
Members aged 16 years old and above are welcome to participate.
Registration fee is Php 1,300 per person, inclusive of jersey.
You may sign-up in any of our gym receptions or call Sports &
Recreation at 8978310 local 7434.
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The Healthier Gourmet - Chef Jessie’s
rolls out their new menu.
The Summer Chronicles - Rockwell Club
members share their favorite summer stories.
An Easy Escape - Discover Hotel Kamana
Sanctuary Resort & Spa
Photoscapes - The Rockwell Photography
Club showcases their travel snapshots.
UPCOMING EVENTS
SWIM . BIKE . RUN
Our first fitness triathlon for the whole family! Create
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a team of 3 members – parents, kids, aunts, uncles,
grandpa and grandma - various combos are welcome.
Swim at the Club lap pool, cycle using our stationary bikes
and run around Power Plant Mall.
Team with the best
time wins!
Division A: 2 adults and 1 child/dependent
(18 years old & above)
Division B: 2 adults and 1 child/dependent
(13 to 17 years old)
Division C: 2 adults and 1 child/dependent
(8 to 12 years old)
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November 21, 2014, Saturday
6:00AM to 11:00 AM
Club poolside
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Registration fee is P 500 per head or P 1,500 per team,
inclusive of a shirt. Winning teams will each receive a
trophy and special prizes. For inquiries or registration, call
our Sports & Recreation Team at 8978310 local 7434.
ROCKWELL PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB
Calling shutter bugs! Rockwell’s first and only club for
photography enthusiasts is accepting new members. All
active club members and Rockwell residents are welcome.
The group meets once a month for a themed-photo contest,
workshops with photography experts and shooting trips.
Interested to join? Please get in touch with
Sylveth Ong-iko through [email protected] or
call 8978310 loc. 7403.
EXHIBIT
YELLOW DOOR GALLERY
at Palm Grove
Palm Grove comes alive with a
display of authentic paintings by
Carlos and other local artists.
For interested art buyers, you may
contact 0917-8225673 or email
[email protected]
3RD QUARTER | THE ROCK
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M E M B E R S HI P AD V I S ORY
LETTER F ROM T H E F RONT
Busy Club. Happy Members!
A FRIENDLY REMINDER: KEEP YOUR
CREDIT CARDS UPDATED
Now that the first quarter and the cooler months are behind us, it’s time to look
forward to summer and the sunshiny weather that accompanies it! We started this
year with an array of traditions and a celebration of cultures. January was about
the Japanese Shogatsu (New Year) Buffet and Sake Wine Tasting which were both
such a big hit, that we’re planning another one within the year. February was extra
memorable after that Great Gatsby-inspired Valentine Dinner held at The Loft @
Manansala. Overall, we are extremely happy that so many members were able to
come and celebrate with us.
The Club has implemented the Auto-Charge Policy for
all members.
In order to avoid inconvenience when you visit the
Club, please remember to update your credit card
details on record.
Expired credit cards may result to the temporary
suspension of your signing privilege as well as use of the
Club’s services and facilities.
If you haven’t joined us yet, it’s never too late as we start off the summer months
with our family events and gatherings! Our Events and Sports & Recreation teams
worked closely together to come up with fabulous summer activities for our
members of all ages. We will definitely make your summer break a family affair!
NO CARD, NO SERVICE POLICY
For the interest of dues-paying members, we are strictly
implementing the No Card, No Service Policy.
As for the gastronomic side of the Club, we have temporarily relocated Rocky’s Café to Palm Grove as we make way for
a fresher look in the second quarter of this year. In the meantime, try the new offerings at Rocky Cafe’s and enjoy the
improved menu with the garden view as we continue to cook up a variety of cuisines for you. Also soon to open is Chef
Jessie’s side entrance along Lopez Drive.
We have a whole gamut of classes, activities, and events planned for you and your family to take advantage of. Make sure
to spend your leisure time with us and I personally look forward to seeing and meeting all of you during the Club’s summer
season!
2014 CAR STICKERS. NOW AVAILABLE!
Geng Brillantes
Starting on April 01, only cars with 2014 car stickers
will be allowed entry to the Club’s parking area.
ON THE COVER
Beetroot Grape Shake with a splash of lemon,
Strawberry Lemonade with Ginger Shake and
Kale Mango Shake are all available at Chef Jessie’s.
Photography by Patrick Martires
Styled by Tata Mapa
AVP - General Manager
The Rockwell Club Directory
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Editorial Consultants: Geng Brillantes, Annabelle Ong-T.
Editor in Chief I Tata Mapa
Managing Editor I Sylveth Ong-iko
ART DIRECTOR I Tracy Santuyo
Contributors
Loren Evangelista, Chloe Lopez-Tan, Ria Tinio
Photographers I Ocs Alvarez, Patrick Martires,
Jun Pinzon, Sundee Guevara, Crissy Castillo
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This privilege is non-transferable. Same policies apply
in the issuance of car stickers.
Our Membership Relations Associates will gladly issue a
temporary card for you.
Lost your membership card?
Ask any of our Membership Relations Associates for a
replacement card.
GM’s Office
Membership Services
756-1533/ 897-8310 loc. 7444 / 7445
Membership Administration
450-2984
Billing & Collection
450-2991
Sports & Recreation 897-8310 loc. 7431 or 7434
Spa Banquet Services
Join our Facebook pages:
The Rockwell Club
Rockwell Leisure
You can also follow us on twitter
@TheRockwellClub
For each membership, the first two (2) car stickers are
free. A third car sticker may be bought at P600.00.
FORGOT TO BRING YOUR MEMBERSHIP
CARD?
756-1516
450-2994
For news and updates, visit
www.therockwellclub.com
Get your stickers now to avoid inconvenience when
using the Club’s parking area.
We ask for our members understanding and cooperation as
this is to ensure that only bonafide active members are able to
enjoy the Club’s services and facilities.
756-1561/ 450-2989
Food & Beverage
Chef Jessie at Rockwell
450-2993/ 450-2995
Rocky’s Cafe & Bar
756-1534
Juice Bar by Fruit Magic
897-8310 loc.7432
IN THE INTEREST
OF OUR KIDS
Club Kiddos, the Club’s
kiddie center, has
implemented the No Socks,
No Entry Policy.
We have recently replaced
the rubber matting of Club
Kiddos and would like to
ensure that we keep this
clean for our Rockwell kids.
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U.P. Tugma Ensemble
performed duet pieces
using the koto instrument.
R E C E NT E V E NT S
R E C E NT E V E NT S
Japanese FESTIVAL 2014
Rockwell residents bonded
and made a toast with sake.
We welcomed the new year with an O-Shogatsu
Festival, a series of events featuring a free Sake
Tasting , a trade fair at the Club Walkway that
showcased popular snacks, cosmetics and products
from Japan. The main event was held at the Palm
Grove which featured a lunch buffet spread with
over 25 dishes prepared by Yurakuen Restaurant of
Diamond Hotel Philippines.
Membership Relations
Associate Anne delos
Santos welcomed guests
in a Kimono.
Hiro, a Japanese
calligraphy
artist gave away
personalized
name art during
the trade fair.
More than a dozen kinds of sake were
featured during the exclusive tasting event.
Linda Qian, Mika Bautista,
Yasuko and Koji Onozawa
A traditional geisha
dance was performed
during the lunch buffet.
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Andrea, Sophie and Gio Co with
the Diamond Hotel officers.
Guests feasted on
a sashimi spread.
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R E C E NT E V E NT S
R E C E NT E V E NT S
Sparkling wines
by Forth and Tay.
Radha and Gian Magdangal
Stardust and All That Jazz
The Rockwell Club celebrated Valentines with a
Gatsby-inspired dinner at The Loft @ Manansala.
We were thrilled to see our members all glammed
up—sipping free-flowing sparkling wines by Forth &
Tay, and dazzling in their roaring 1920s fashion. The
highlight of the night was a special concert featuring
the 9works Philharmonic Orchestra and the country’s
Soul Diva and R&B goddess, Radha, who gave a
powerhouse performance of classic love ballads,
medleys of songs by the Heart and The Beatles and
some of the most memorable pop tunes from the
‘80s. Special guests were recording artists and theater
veterans Gian Magdangal and OJ Mariano. It was a
dazzling night indeed. Romantic and intimate, with
just the right dose of fierce and fun.
Radha with Rockwell Club officers Annabelle Ong-T., Geng Brillantes,
Sylveth Ong-iko and Club President Boy Granados.
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Text by Sylveth Ong-iko
Photos by Sundee Guevara
OJ Mariano
Gian Magdangal, CJ Javarata,
Garlic Garcia and Rafa Siguion-Reyna
Jinky and Blair Duncan
Peachy Atilano
and Robbie Guevara
Akiko Thompson, Chips Guevara,
Tricia Canapi and Ian Monsod
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Tri-color Fusili with Zucchini and
Micro Arugula makes for a light yet
hearty vegetarian dish.
Smoked Milkfish and Brown Rice comes with
a generous drizzling of healthy olive oil and is
served with homemade pickled raw papaya.
except for calcium, but because
I’m mindful about what I eat, I have
enough energy to work from morning
until midnight. “
Gourmet
the healthier
The Rockwell Club’s beloved Chef Jessie creates a
new menu with your good health in mind.
Photos by Patrick Martires
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| Text by Tata Mapa
That being said, Chef Jessie adds that
the new additions to her menu were
also inspired by and specially created
with her clientele in mind—particularly
those who now have to watch what they
Whether it’s for a business lunch, a
romantic dinner, or a special celebration
with the whole family, Rockwell Club
members know that it’s always such a
treat to dine at Chef Jessie’s. And this
summer, our resident esteemed chef
takes the notion of good eats to a whole
new level.
eat. “I want to take care of the people
who come and dine with us. I also want
to help even our young patrons develop
a healthy
lifestyle as far as food is concerned.”
Healthier Selections
The move towards healthier choices
starts off with the selection of
ingredients. “I make sure to go to the
Fettuccini a la Creme with seared jumbo scallops in moringa cream is
still extra rich and indulgent but it gets a dash of goodness with some
seafood and moringa leaves.
“I’ve been wanting to add new,
healthier dishes to the menu for some
time now,” Chef Jessie confesses.
“I’ve always been a healthy eater, and I
really choose what I put in my mouth.
They say we are what we eat. So if we
want to look good, we have to be very
selective about the food we take in. I
personally don’t take any medication,
and I don’t even take any vitamins
3RD QUARTER | THE ROCK
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outlook that guides Chef Jessie in her choices. It
also results in a fruity feast of a salad that is sure
to be crisp and scrumptious. In the future, diners
can also look forward to delicious dessert creations
made with fresh fruit, yoghurt, and a lot of dark
chocolate.
Taste Comes First
“When I concoct something for the first time,”
Chef Jessie qualifies, “I have to make sure it’s
full-flavored and full-bodied with a complete
texture. You have to experience true satisfaction
with every bite, and every dish should give the
guest a complete experience that is gratifying.”
Chicken Supreme with Mushroom Duxelles and Pan-fried Goose Liver is a
lighter spin on a Chef Jessie signature dish that is usually paired with the richer
duck or beef instead of the leaner chicken breast.
“Of course not everything is lean,” Chef Jessie
admits with a laugh, “There will still be those who
want to indulge in a traditional gourmet meal from
start to finish. But we felt that it was important to
come up with healthier choices.” And now, with
a more varied menu, those who are considering
a lifestyle shift can take that step while still
enjoying flavorful and succulent dishes that will
more than satisfy any craving.
Stretch, pose, and breathe your way to both
inner and outer wellbeing. We now offer
three types of yoga classes, so you can
decide on which one suits you best. Or better
yet, reach out and discover the benefits that
each of the three has to offer!
i-YOGA
Fat Burning & Anti-Aging
Saturdays
6:30PM - 7:30PM
Fitness Studio 2, Main Gym
(Amorsolo)
Detox & RejuvEnation
Sundays
6:30PM - 7:30PM
Fitness Studio 1, Main Gym
(Amorsolo)
Chef Jessie’s new dishes will be on the menu
starting this April, making for the perfect meal
choices during the warmer summer months.
weekend markets because I know I will be
able to find some fresh, local produce I can
use,” explains Chef Jessie. “Take our Zucchini
Pasta, for example. It has yellow zucchini, and
kale, which is widely known as a superfood
because it’s packed with nutrients. I visit the
organic farms in Pampanga and Nueva Ecija,
and I’m always on the lookout for fresh, new
ingredients.”
New on the Menu
Luckily, Chef Jessie assures us that she still
uses the same cooking techniques when she
whips up her healthier dishes—so there’s no
need to bid adieu to her signature flavors,
textures, and spices. The new menu will also
be made available in batches. “All in all I
want to come up with at least 20 new dishes
that will include everything from appetizers
to desserts, which we will introduce over the
coming months,” she says.
This summer, patrons can look forward to
refreshing fruit and vegetable shakes, as well as
a lot more salads filled with fresh fruits. “But
we won’t include as many leafy greens,” Chef
Jessie expounds. “They tend to wilt in the heat.”
Going with what’s in season is a mindset and
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POWER YOGA
Instructor:
Ines Celdran Garcia
VINYASA YOGA
Fruity Kale Salad with
orange turmeric vinaigrette
spells summer’s bounty.
Schedule:
Mondays
8:00PM - 9:00PM
Mondays
5:30PM - 6:30PM
Fitness Studio 1, Main Gym
(Amorsolo)
Wednesdays
7:00PM - 8:00PM
*New Class! Starts on
April 21, 2014
Sundays
4:30PM - 5:30PM
Fitness Studio 2, Main Gym
(Amorsolo)
Fitness Studio 2,
Main Gym (Amorsolo)
On Guard!
she lives just across the Club in the Rizal
Tower, Meera can easily join her ballet
classes even if she takes part in other
after-school activities.
Loving Ballet: Meera loves her tutus,
costumes and ballet shoes—but claims
she likes her teacher Jan Manlapig just
as much. The Rockwell Club’s skilled
ballet teachers are registered under the
Australia Conservatoire of Ballet (using
the Vaganova Syllabus), but Meera says
she really looks forward to attending class
because her teacher Jan is always warm,
and makes learning much more fun.
Summer Camp
Champs
One can easily tell Justin is a
serious athlete even with one
look. And when he starts to talk
about fencing, your suspicions
are confirmed—he is passionate
about his sport! With several
competitions and medals under
his belt, this guy has definitely
got game.
The Champ: Justin Mariano, 23,
aspiring pilot
Destined for Fencing: As luck
would have it, Justin ran out of a
slot for a swimming elective during
his freshman year at the Ateneo de
Manila University. He took this as a
At The Rockwell Club: Aside from at the
ballet studios, you can also find Meera
having play dates with other neighbors
and fellow club members—swimming
and enjoying themselves while their
parents look on.
Meet just some of the happy campers behind the
Rockwell Club’s summer programs and workshops.
Photos by JUN PINZON
Interviews by Chloe Lopez-Tan
SHOOT PRODUCED by LOREN EVANGELISTA
Ballerina Girl
Beautiful little Meera is a budding ballerina. Dancing in pointe shoes
is something she would like to do one day, but at the moment, she
enjoys her fairy costume while doing her plié’s.
The Champ: Meera Cawrse, 7 years old, 2nd Grade Student at British School Manila
Ballet Beginnings: Meera started dancing ballet when she was just 2 years old when
her family still lived in Australia. Mom, Pritha, a former ballet dancer, enrolled her
little girl in the Rockwell Club’s ballet classes when they moved to the Philippines. As
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sign to go ahead and try fencing. Before he knew it, he was
training as a member of the school’s fencing varsity team
and later, in international competitions representing the
country.
Light Bulb Moment: It was Justin who suggested to his
mom that fencing be included in the summer camp this
year. As his mom started making arrangements, Justin
proved himself valuable by giving his ideas and referrals.
At the Rockwell Club: It’s not difficult to find Justin
when you need to. Every day he can be seen working out
at the Club’s gym without fail. If not, you can spot him at
Rocky’s Cafe eating with his friends, and if it’s a Sunday,
doing some laps at the pool.
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CENTER STAGE
Joseph’s talent is undeniable.
Having worked with professional
theater actors early on, he challenges
himself to always be at his best. Last
year, Joseph played the role of Cole,
the lead role for 9Works Theatrical
play entitled Baby Love.
The Champ: Joseph Perez, 15
3rd Year Student, National High School
Rising Star: Joseph started watching
theatrical plays at 7 years old and has
been in love with the stage ever since.
When he was 11 years old—and only
a newbie—he was cast in the CCP
production of Noli Me Tangere directed
by Audie Gemora and Ryan Cayabyab.
After this, he acted in a play by Carlitos
Siguion-Reyna called Walang Sugat
also by CCP.
STEP IT UP!
Joseph the Dreamer: Asked how he
envisions his future, Joseph says he
would like to be professional actor.
Although he is most comfortable
singing Kundiman, he is aiming to do
Broadway one day. In the meantime,
he trains with Rockwell Club’s
summer camp every year. Joseph
wishes he could join the adult classes,
saying ,“that would be exciting and
challenging.”
The Champ: Arnold Trinidad, fitness
instructor for the Rockwell Club’s
Wenga and Modern-Jazz-Latin classes
At the Rockwell Club: You will mostly
likely find Joseph at the Manansala
Tower rehearsing!
Trini is a brilliant choreographer.
It’s no wonder celebrities like
Solenn Heussaff, as well as the
Rockwell Club members trust him
to create their routines. And though
he has his hands full with dancing,
he also dabbles in event organizing
and fashion directing.
Talented Mr. Trini: Trini has an
impressive background. He first started
appearing on television dancing for Kuh
Ledesma, Zsa-Zsa Padilla and Sharon
Cuneta. He then became part of the
Philippine production of Miss Saigon
(with Lea Salonga) and toured Asia and
the United Kingdom. He also became
the resident choreographer and the
only Filipino in the Korean cast of Miss
Saigon.
Let’s Dance: Wenga fitness is
exclusive to Rockwell Club’s members.
Conceptualized by Trini as a form of
dance that incorporates different styles,
this dance form is simply “something
you will enjoy and groove to the sound
of, no matter what age”. Wenga is so
unique because every month there’s a
new theme with different music, props,
and movements to look forward to.
At The Rockwell Club: Where else, but
the dance studios!
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M E M B E R S P ROFIL E S
AWriter’s Life
When novelist Roy L. Santos first moved to
Rockwell from the US four years ago, he knew
he’d found the ideal place to live. It soon
proved to be the ideal place to work as well.
INTERVIEW BY TATA MAPA
Photo by crissy castillo
of the rockwell PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB
The Rock: Did your move to Rockwell spell a change in lifestyle?
Roy L. Santos: It meant I had more time to concentrate on my
writing because I didn’t need to drive everywhere. Practically
everything is within reach. The easy access to the gyms also
meant I had little excuse not to take advantage of the spaces,
hence it has contributed to a rather healthy lifestyle and a
routine where exercise is an integral part.
TR: Tell us a little about your book—what does it focus on
and how did you come up with the idea for it?
Get rid of your reading
glasses with Supracor
MEDICAL
PERK
By Audrey Trinidad
Are you between 40-60 years old? Do you usually complain about difficulty reading text messages on your mobile phone or reading the
newspaper? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This is because as we age, the natural lens of the eye loses its ability to focus up close. This
condition is called presbyopia and it makes it necessary to wear progressive reading glasses or contact lenses.
For most people not accustomed to wearing glasses or contact lenses, it can be difficult to adjust. Reading glasses are either littered
around the house, in your car and in your bag, or somehow they can never be found just when you need them. Fortunately, Asian Eye
offers a quick and painless procedure that restores your ability to see at near distances.
Aside from treating presbyopia, Supracor can be combined with customized Lasik to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness and
astigmatism. It can also be recommended for patients who have had other laser procedures done before but are looking for treatment to
lessen or eliminate their dependence on reading glasses.
Call Asian Eye today and find out if Supracor is right for you. Asian Eye Institute is located at Phinma Plaza Rockwell Center, Makati
with satellite clinics in Trinoma, Quezon City and Mall of Asia, Pasay City. For further inquiries, you may call 898-2020, 09188982020 or email at [email protected]
RLS: I was thinking of a story that would combine the
immigrant experience with the folklore of my childhood in a
contemporary setting. The result is The Acacia City Chronicle,
which is available on Amazon.com as a paperback and
e-book. (For now, it’s available as a special-order paperback
at National Bookstore.) Acacia City is a fictional place
loosely based on Daly City, a city south of San Francisco,
where a large community of Filipinos resides. Fantastic
things happen in Acacia City and it’s up to Filipinos (or FilAmericans) to save the day.
The city itself is famous for its fog, and it plays a big role in
the novel. It usually appears without warning, no matter the
season. There’s a joke in the Filipino-American community
about it. It’s been said that the presence of the fog is due to
Filipino households turning on their rice cookers at the same
time, which I think is hilarious. In fact, it formed the basis for
one of the more climactic episodes in the novel.
I’d been thinking of a novel involving a grandmother
character who’s spunky and unorthodox, successful but with
a secret from her past. The grandson with the same special
traits comes later. The novel is affectionately satirical of
Filipino ways, but it’s also about the search for heritage and
how to pass on traditions to future generations who grow up
in different countries and cultures.
TR: What about your writing process? We’re curious to know
how you were able to turn something many dream of into
a reality.
RLS: I write every day during the week on a notebook then
transcribe on the weekends on my laptop. I wish I could tell
you where the burst of inspiration for the book came from,
but it all came down to the very ordinary act of putting pencil
to paper and writing, just scribbling scenes and dialogue until
I had one or two pages. Then I repeated it every day for about
nine months.
The initial framework of the story had been brewing in my
mind for many years. It was just a matter of putting it down.
It sounds simple, but it took discipline and a willingness to
subject oneself to a routine, much like a job. I wrote most
of it in several coffee shops and restaurants in the area,
including Rocky’s. I’m easily distracted by random stuff at
home, so I needed to be out in order to be productive.
What also kept me going every day was the dream of writing
what is essentially a tribute to my late grandmother, who
inspires me to this day, and the dream of becoming a writer.
I wrote for a magazine, a TV show, and several Websites
in the US, but becoming a novelist was always something I
secretly aspired to, though it seemed out of reach. But today’s
technology allows me to publish and realize my dream. I
hope it reaches a lot of people.
TR: What are your plans now in terms of work, writing, and
life in general?
RLS: I’m working on the second book of the Acacia City
Trilogy. It should be out in a few months. Long-term, I also
want to make the book available in more channels and finish
the trilogy by 2015. For now, you can find the first book
by doing a Google or Amazon search for The Acacia City
Chronicle.
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The
Summer Chronicles
Itong, Richie, and
their daughters
Olivia, 7, and
Luccia, 5.
Quality
time
We sit down with these Rockwell Club members as they share what they
love doing during the sunniest months of the year.
|
Photos by ocs alvarez (torres family & mAIKA Tanpoco)
Maika Jae Rivera
Tanpoco, 18,
Professional
International
Women’s Tennis
Player Former
Ranked 160 in the
world International
Tennis Federation
Junior Girls
The Pro
Professional tennis player Maika
Tanpoco started hitting the courts
when she was just two years old. She
began training seriously by the age
of seven, and now dedicates most
of her time to her sport. Here’s her
formula for a grand slam summer.
“Summer means a chance to relax, unwind, and explore with
family and friends. I actually travel around twice a month for
tennis—often overseas. I like how my family gets to join me
during the summer break. They also have more time to just
meet up for dinner in the mall after my training.”
“If I’m lucky to be in the Philippines, I usually go with my
family to Baguio, which is my favorite place to be. Or we
stay in Rockwell where I spend quiet time swimming, doing
some outdoor cardio workouts, getting massages, and treating
myself to nail and foot spa treatments. It’s these simple things
that make me happy.”
“I participate in a lot of tennis tournaments outside the country,
which is great since I love to travel and meet different people.
After each tennis tournament, I have the privilege of exploring
each country I visit. I love discovering things about the culture
and history. It helps me better understand and appreciate the
country I’m visiting.”
“I trained in Thailand for half a year,
and had a really nice time when I took
a short vacation with my family.”
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“Since the kids are on break and the sun is out, we spend
a lot of time playing in the garden. Sometimes we even hang
out there in the evenings, just looking at the stars. Of course
there’s swimming in the club pool or in our building’s pool, and
swimming class with Teacher Ria. Olivia and Luccia also take part
in the different Summer Camp activities.”
Diaries
“China was amazing
because of my close
encounters with my favorite
tennis stars like Serena
Williams, Sabine Lisicki,
and Li Na!”
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“For us, summer means traveling as a family. It means
going to the beach or getting close to nature. We love
bringing our kids to museums and zoos. They also love rock
climbing at ROX and taking art classes at Be Me with their
cousins. When they were younger, they would hang out at
Club Kiddos.”
“I adore Japan
because of the
discipline of
its people—
everything is
organized and I
really love their
food and their
culture.”
“When I visited Australia, I was able to have
a first-hand experience with a dolphin at
SeaWorld in Queensland Gold Coast.
Richie’s hair by Norlie Davila of Basement Salon
Maik a’s Summer
Itong and Richie
Torres love
creating summer
memories with
their daughters
Olivia and Luccia.
They head out of
town whenever
possible, but
also love how
they don’t need
to wander far to
have a great time.
maika’s Hair by Gigi de la Cruz of Basement Salon, Makeup by Cherrie Baawa of Basement Salon
Interviews by TATA MAPA
“We choose to stay in town during Holy Week since it’s quiet
and peaceful— and there’s a really good retreat in the Ateneo
Law School right across our building. Itong and I go to the
services and last year, the kids joined the grown-ups during our
Visita Iglesia to some nearby churches. Afterwards we went out
to eat. The kids were so excited to be with their cousins and to
have ice cream late at night!”
“Some of our favorite activities include going to the beach,
usually in Nasugbu, Batangas. Itong has been sailing recently,
and now joins regattas. We love how beautiful and relaxing it is
out there. In fact, we would love to spend an entire summer by
the beach! That goal is a work in progress.”
Their Summer Scrapbook
Last year we went to Dedon Island
in Siargao. It was a truly memorable
trip for our whole family.
“There’s so much to do in
town during the summer. The
kids take art lessons and we
visit museums.”
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25
S UMM E R C HRONI C L E S
The Farley Family Album
Matt, Tia, and Kalani,
9, and Mason, 4, have
already embraced life in
their new home.
“From the rice terraces in Banaue to the beaches in Bohol, it
feels like we’ve accomplished ten years worth of vacations in
a very short time.”
“Since our fateful trip to
Siquijor, we’ve met more
than 30 new cousins from
all over the Philippines.
We’ve now spent the past
two Christmas holidays
there with our family, and
plan to attend their town
fiesta this May. “
Loving La Vida Local
Matt and Tia Farley just moved to the country the other year but they,
along with kids Kalani and Mason, have already come to embrace
the saying “It’s More Fun in the Philippines!”
“For our family, summer means that it’s time to go on vacation!
We consider ourselves lucky to live in the Philippines where
domestic and international tourist opportunities are plentiful.
Traveling is by far our favorite activity. And while we do take trips
to other countries, we’re proud to say that in just one year of living
in the Philippines, we have visited Baguio, Banaue, Corregidor,
Isabela, Batangas, Anilao, Laguna, Quezon, Negros Oriental,
Bohol, Cebu, Sorsogon and Siquijor.”
“Each summer when relatives visit, we take them on a tour of
our favorite activities: weekend fireworks along Manila Bay, the
Intramuros Walking Tour, bargain shopping at Greenhills, the
Ayala Museum, and of course, shopping in Power Plant Mall.
We really enjoy these attractions because they offer us a great
opportunity to enjoy making lasting memories as a family.”
26
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“The Rockwell Club is also a great place to relax and
rejuvenate. The kids enjoy the swimming pools and
playgrounds, while the adults take advantage of the gyms and
spa. Everyone enjoys the restaurants such as Chef Jessie’s, and
the Power Plant Cinemas.”
“Tia’s father was born and raised in Hawaii, and her mother is
from California. However, her late grandfather had moved from
Siquijor to Hawaii as a young man. Tia and her father never
had any connections to the Philippines, but we decided to visit
Siquijor in the summer of 2012 to look for ancestry records.
After reviewing records at a town hall and Catholic Church,
we were led to a village on the east side of the island. To our
complete shock and amazement, we ended up face to face with
relatives who were first cousins!”
THREE TO TRY
Easy breezy tips that will help
you relish your vacation time.
Play and Display
Instead of just snapping hundreds of amazing photos
on your phone or camera, go old school and make
sure to print out even just a few of your favorite shots.
Display them in frames, in an album, or in your wallet.
Better yet, give your kids some art paper and glue,
and let them create a collage filled with your summer
memories.
“Summer means that school is out and it’s time for us
to have some fun in the sun!”
Start Traditions
There’s something about
doing the same thing every
year. Whether it’s heading
to the same beach for Holy
Week, going on a picnic,
or even shopping for sunny
weather clothes, these little
traditions help us mark our
progression, and help us
remember—and appreciate—where we were same time
last year. Do this on your own, or with your family. It
can be a big to-do, like a family trip abroad, or a personal
moment like relaxing by the pool with your favorite fruit
shake. The important thing is that it’s something you can
enjoy over and over again.
Explore Your World
While it’s good to build traditions and return to
old favorites, don’t forget to leave some room for
new experiences. Every month, make it a point to
go someplace that you’ve never been. It can be a
new museum, another country, or even a different
restaurant. There are lots of places that are perfect for
summertime visits so make hay while the sun shines!
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27
M E M B E R S HI P P E RK S
Escape
An Easy
Relax and unwind in a peaceful hideaway
that’s just a drive away from home.
By Ria Tinio
Nature’s Haven
Nestled amongst lush rainforests, the azure waters of
Nabasan Bay, and majestic sloping mountains, the
resort offers one sweeping views, the chance to fill
one’s lungs with crisp, fresh air, and a tranquil refuge
where one can enjoy the gentle sea world’s away from
the hustle and bustle of the frantic city. And whether
you choose to enjoy your stay in a well-appointed
suite, or a private casita perched right
atop the water, you’re sure to sense the quiet embrace
of Mother Nature.
Vacay Your Way
The airy feel of Kamana’s fresh, inviting spaces sets the stage
for the getaway you need. Soak up some sun, take a dip in the
sea, or try your hand at a water sport. Relish delicious dishes
passionately prepared by their executive chef, and sip and
savor your favorite cocktail over a glorious sunset. Indulge in a
pampering session at the spa and drift off as all your cares are
lifted away, or secure a private spot and chill as you will in a
place that takes the art of the mini break to the next level. Rest
assured, you’ll find yourself leaving relaxed and rejuvenated,
no matter how you choose to spend your time away.
Home will always be where the heart is. But there
will also be those times when we simply long to get
away from it all. So why not strive to have the best of
both worlds? Rockwell Club members will be happy
to discover that the Hotel Kamana Sanctuary Resort
and Spa, which is conveniently located in the Subic
Freeport Zone, is fully equipped with every modern
luxury, making it the perfect fit for city folk who can’t
stray far from their creature comforts.
28 THE ROCK
Hotel Kamana Sanctuary Resort & Spa is one
of our vacation perks partners. Rockwell Club
members may enjoy as much as 30% discount on
room rates.
For bookings, please contact Membership services
at 897-8310 loc. 7444 or 0917-8071739 or email
[email protected]
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29
Photoscapes
ROCKWELL PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB MEMBERS
share their favorite snapshots from around the world
Igorot of Benguet
by Alex FIguracion
Halong Bay, Vietnam by George Apalisok
Eiffel Dream
Come True, Paris
by Howard Felipe
Hotel Lobby
Marina Bay Sands
by Crissy Castillo
I See You Along Mekong River by Bong Casis
Hidden Treasure by Mark Marcelino
New York Skyline
by Boy Granados
Mayon Volcano, Bicol
by Howard Felipe
30 THE ROCK
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