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Have You Heard of Batangueno Inventors Gregorio Zara and Maria Orosa?

Dyan Hernandez — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 03:21:46 +0000

Article contributed by Ken Michael Escamillas

Perhaps we know Thomas Edison, Alexander Graham Bell, Henry Ford, and Benjamin Franklin as world-renown inventors. But did you know that Batangas boasts of famous inventors, too?

Yes. And we should be proud of them. Batanguenos are also brilliant thinkers of new things which is said to be very beneficial for our own advancement.

Two of the recognized Filipino inventors hails from Batangas. These were Gregorio Zara and Maria Orosa.

Gregorio Zara (March 8, 1902 – October 15, 1978) was born in Lipa City Batangas. Gregorio Zara became famous for his two-way television telephone or videophone, Law of Electrical Kinetic Resistance or the so-called “Zara Effect”, propeller-cutting machine and many more.

He was a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Among his recognitions were the Distinguished Service Medal for his works and achievements in solar energy research aeronautics and television (1959) and Cultural Heritage Award for Science Education and Aero Engineering.

If you want to know who’s behind the invention of banana ketchup, that’s Maria Orosa (1893-1945). She was a food technologist who was known for her invention, the Calamansi Nip (a powdered form of calamansi which one can be made into juice) and Soyalac (powdered soya beans) and Orosa palayok oven. Maria Oroza was born in Taal Batangas. She also invented delis like kasuy and guava Wines, guava jelly, and rice cookies.

The inventions of these two amazing Batanguenos became a strong foundation of a lot of innovations today. Batangas is looking forward for more inventions and people with the minds of Zara and Oroza to come up and make everyone proud.

Online Source: inventors.about.com

Photo Source: instructables.com, dreamcatcherrye.blogspot.com

http://www.filipinoinventorssocietyinc.com/members-inventions6.html

http://www.nhi.gov.ph/downloads/sm0029.pdf

http://inventors.about.com/od/filipinoscientists/a/Gregorio_Zara.htm

Experiencing Taal’s EL PASUBAT FESTIVAL

joel — Tue, 03 May 2011 03:24:55 +0000

After experiencing the first ever EL PASUBAT festival, which stands for: Empanada, Embutido, Longganisa, PAnotcha,SUman, BArong Tagalog, BAlisong, Tapa, Tamalis, Tulingan, Tawilis festival (whew!) last April 30; one would really wonder how rich a culture and how united a community Taal and its people are.

Albeit the searing heat of the sun, the last day (which I attended) of this three- day festival was lively graced by paraders and street dancers from every barangay of the town.

In the midst of the parade, I had the opportunity to talk to a local- a 50 or so year old, jolly Ka Mandy- who literally grew up in Poblacion, Taal.

From our little chit-chat he mentioned that the said festival was three to four months in the making and every barangay had their representing products and a mobile float to showcase it.

Theirs was Tapa.

He, too, was very proud that unlike the neighboring towns, Taal, is not, in anyway, err… brute; that the said festival is not induced with alcoholic liquors and dead- drunk men; that Taal is rather a place of grandeur and its people are followers of old- fashioned, Filipino etiquette; that the said festival is fueled by sheer will of promoting their classy, home- made products.

True enough, Ka Mandy is one eager local who is so passionate to introduce their hometown’s prides; he could very well be our tour guide.

But unfortunately, Ka Mandy – who I think is a barangay official- had to go elsewhere and bade us a warm good-bye.

Oh! I was with the WOWbatangas team.

See, when you’re in a vivacious festival, and are surrounded by hospitable folks, the thought of you not working and seeing your bosses as co- tourists is a phenomenon I always look forward to.:)

Another feature of the EL PASUBAT festival is the visitation to open, 19^th century old houses which is aptly named VISITA EN LA CASA. The featured houses were once homes for Taal’s unsung local heroes and heroines and thanks to Taal Active Alliance Legion (T.A.A.L.)- an org which longs to preserve Taal ancestral houses and of course, Taal culture, for restoring and making those houses a living legacy to Batanguenos and to the rest of the world in general.

Some houses even have video presentations and 19^th century ala guwarja sibil dressed people which made the 19^thcentury experience all the more interesting.

Old houses? Home- grown products? What possibly could you ask for, right?

Wrong.

Taalenos, too, are performers.

Taalenos during the visita performed the harana and subli which are two of the hundreds of long- lost Filipino traditions.

Okay, the harana might not be forgotten thanks to that now immortal song of Parokya ni Edgar.

But did you know that the subli- the dance that uses castanets- is a ritual that is performed to tame the temperamental volcano?

I did not.

Surprisingly or sadly, I suppose, I only live about two hours away from this scenic heritage town.

And really, I find it too poor of me to be a stranger to a place where my family could possibly root from (Taal is a land of pure blooded Batanguenos, I presume).

And so I thank Taal and its culture- driven festival for re- introducing the rich heritage and home- grown products to clueless chaps like me.

Celebrate El Pasubat Festival 2011 in Taal, April 28-30!

Dyan Hernandez — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 02:29:17 +0000

When you walk on the streets of Taal, Batangas, you walk on its rich cultural heritage. There’s this certain vibe flourishing around town. That kind of vibe which makes you feel very much Pinoy.

On April 28-30, Taal will be celebrating its 439th Foundation Anniversary and the Taaleños want you to come celebrate with them!

Below are the activities you can take part in for the three-day celebration of El Pasubat Festival 2011. By the way, what is El Pasubat? It’s Taal’s festival which showcases their popular local products. PASUBAT stands for PAnutsa, SUman, Balisong, Barong tagalog, Tapa, Tulingan, Tawilis.

April 28, Thursday

Commercial Motorcade
Opening of Trade Fair
Visita En La Casa
Grand Festival Del Baile

April 29, Friday

Trade Fair
Visita En La Casa
Street Painting
Palaro ng Lahi
Concert in the Park

April 30, Saturday

Grand Parade
Street Dancing and Court Dancing
Trade Fair
Visita En La Casa
Culinary Arts and Crafts Competition
Thanksgiving Party and Awarding of Prizes

The Trade Fair will feature Taal’s major local products – empanada, suman, tamales, tapa and longanisa, panutsa, balisong, burda de taal, barong tagalog.

With Visita En La Casa, visitors will have the chance to experience Taal’s heritage houses in an “open house” to be led by Taal Active Alliance Legion, a non government organization which supports the preservation and conservation of Taal’s heritage houses.

Do you want a different kind or partying all night long? Join the Grand Festival Del Baile – a night of beautiful music and ballroom dancing. The event will feature Don Guillermo and his flamenco troupe to lead you to dance the night away.

The final day will commence with the Grand Parade where the Taal’s finest will ride on floats featuring local products, industries, beauty queens, and some celebrities who will join Taaleños on the last day of El Pasubat Festival 2011 celebration.

Also part of the third day activities are the Culinary and Crafts Competitions highlighting the suman-eating contest and biggest balisong in Taal.

Come celebrate with the townfolks of Taal, Batangas and witness the bests of El Pasubat Festival 2011!

Best Resorts in Batangas (Part II)

Dyan Hernandez — Sat, 05 Mar 2011 07:13:17 +0000

In gratitude of their continuous support to WOWBatangas.com, we’d like to highlight three of the best resorts here in Batangas which contributed to the growth of this website.

As an advertiser, a client, or an event partner, each of these three resorts here in the province has its own special features to offer. They are all lovely and more than that, the owners of these resorts have genuine kindness which makes visiting these destinations a very rewarding experience.

You may treat this as the part two of the Best Resorts in Batangas entry the other day. Then again, we only like to show our appreciation to these three summer destinations.

Shercon Resort and Ecology Park

They are one of our valued supporters here in WOWBatangas.com. Shercon Resort and Ecology Park boasts of a great view of the Taal Lake as well. I’ve seen the expansion, the growth of Shercon Resort throughout the years and with that comes the realization that more and more people are having the best of time in Shercon Resort and Ecology Park.

They also have the infinity pool which most resort visitors are actually attracted to nowadays. I personally like the Club Manuel Cabins. They’re simple and comfy yet very stylish.

Shercon Resort and Ecology Park has child-friendly facilities like the playground and the ecology park which will allow your kids to have unlimited fun. And what do you get in return? Priceless moments just seeing your kids laugh and play under the sun.

Opening this summer are almost Olympic size swimming pool, third kiddie pool, and Club Manuel Hall which can accommodate 200-300 guests overlooking Taal Lake.

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La Leona Resort, Lipa City

The last time we went there, it was like we have the whole world as our concert stage. Haha. La Leona has this certain relaxation vibe which will hit you and allow you to just bum around and have a good time. Their La Leona Cabana can accommodate a maximum of 20 people so if you have a large group of friends, this one will suit you.

Get to know more about the accommodation and other facilities in La Leona Resort by clicking the link.

Abby’s Garden Resort, Taal

Not a lot of people know that Taal also has quite a number of recreation sites and among these are swimming pool resorts. Abby’s Garden Resort is one of the resorts you can try visiting this summer. Also, if you live in Taal or on a nearby area, catch Abby’s Garden Resort’s summer activities.

One special feature of this resort is the technology they’re using in cleaning their swimming pool – a technology called Caribbean Clear.

Since it opened, a lot of special events were held here, oftentimes are weddings. For other celebrations and company events, you may check out Abby’s Garden Resort website for more details.

Vote for Your Mutya ng Batangan 2010 Candidate!

Dyan Hernandez — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 08:12:25 +0000

Saturday, November 13, was a day of fabulous Batangueñas vying for the most coveted title, Mutya ng Batangan 2010. It was the first gathering of this year’s candidates as the official pictorial of Mutya ng Batangan was held at La Leona Resort in Lipa City.

Here are the Official Candidates of Mutya ng Batangan 2010:

AGONCILLO – MICCA MASANGKAY ROSAL
ALITAGTAG – MARIANNE KRISTINE ABUTAR
BALAYAN – JULIANA KAPEUNDL
BALETE – ROSABIANCA MAILA RAZON
BATANGAS CITY – CLAIRE UNTALAN
BAUAN – ANJELINE FLORENCE GARCHITORENA
CUENCA – DIANNE EILEEN MAGSOMBOL
IBAAN – MARIA TERESA BATHAN
LAUREL – JANEEN MIKEE CALINISAN
LEMERY – YVETTE ARMAINE HERNANDEZ
LIPA CITY – CZSHEVINAH HAE ALEJANDRO
LOBO – SUMAYA MCEVOY
MABINI – JOSEPHINE MARIE UNTALAN
MALVAR – JOAN KAY HERNANDEZ
ROSARIO – KHRYZIALYN CIAR
SAN JOSE – MINKY AVEL ILAGAN
SAN JUAN – OLEIN JAIRA SOPHIA ONA
SAN NICOLAS – AREAN ARENAS
TAAL – AIMEE GARILAO
TALISAY – RIKKA MARIE MENDOZA
TANAUAN CITY – DARA PRINCESS PLATON

To vote for your favorite candidate, visit and LIKE the WOWBatangas Facebook Page. Then go to the MUTYA ng BATANGAN 2010 album and LIKE the profile of your candidate.

Witness the most prestigious pageant of Batangas live at SM City Lipa Parking Area on December 4, 6:30PM.

The Super Batangas Adventure

Dyan Hernandez — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 01:09:52 +0000

Here’s another contribution from Disayrey Sayat. I must agree that Brgy. Pinagkilatan (where the Monte Maria Shrine was supposed to rise) in Batangas City is an underrated paradise. I was also mesmerized with the view from the hilltop and immediately claimed that it was the most serene place I’d ever been to.

Check out Disay’s adventures around Batangas with her travel buddies.

Super Tour with Super People in Super Batangas

Batangas Province is truly a cradle of marvels that Batanguenos have to be thankful for. I was invited by the MassComm students of Lyceum of the Philippines University Batangas to host their “telemag” which they described as really adventure-filled and exhilarating.

To feel the very essence of the trip we had to take jeepneys, tricycles or just walk. There were hurdles like the unpredictably unfriendly weather, unavailability of the destination and delays, but these challenges served as blessings for they made the journey realistic, fun and extraordinary.

I imagined our voyage as an enigmatic riddle that we had to unravel and while we were on our way to unfolding the answers we were much more surprised because with each answers being given, more adventures were revealed. The stories that completed our expedition are worth sharing.

On the first day we headed to Taal, Batangas. We felt like we infiltrated a portal and traveled back in time. St Martin de Tours church, the biggest in South East Asia, is truly magnificent. It has never lost its beauty after triumphing over numerous catastrophes in the past. The more it fights against natural destructions, the more it illustrates how strong we, Batanguenos, are.

The old houses were tremendously stunning after having survived the influential whip of modernization; it is admirable to see those standing until today and the same one which served as witnesses of our glorious past.

We also visited some of the shops that offer gowns and barong rentals. I fell in love with a blue, intricately designed gown that can be rented for surprisingly, only P2,500. I almost brought it home. Of course, we thought that going home wouldn’t be complete without bringing Tapa. The sumptuous viand made of pork that costs P240. Oh! I’ve been including tapa as the main dish on our dinner table since then.

On the second day we went to Recidencia Acosta Pastor in Batangas City. I laud how the Pastors preserved the ancient house. The atmosphere was oddly idyllic and as we stepped on the old ladder to get inside the house the whiff of yesterday’s air, enticed attentions and reminiscence of the distant past comprise our initial reaction.

The capiz window, floorings, furniture, and decorations sing different melodies that one would love to hear upon entering a house. It undoubtedly highlights cultural and historical tourism amidst the urbanization of the city where it rests.

The following day our feet wore the slippers of zeal and strolled to Mabini, Batangas. It was my first visit, the kind of visit that needs to be sufficed by another. Accessibility is always the first factor to consider when traveling, but whether getting there was smooth or not didn’t really matter because it was all worth it.

We walked on the stony shore of Solo, Mabini, met several sea creatures on the ebony sand and stepped on shells that collectors would love to keep. When we arrived at the spot where we executed the shoot, I was speechless and I had to ask much time to finalize my desired description of the destination. I chose not to write a script so I could naturally blurt out what my heart says during each moment when the emotion is still fresh and vibrant. It was indescribable or it just deserved to be described in the best way possible. The huge walls made of stones separate it from the rest of the world. In my vision, it was like they were protecting the natural marvels from any inconsiderate intrusion.

We dedicated the last day of the shoot to Pagkilatan, Batangas City. It is a potential tourist destination that needs more promotion. We landed in a chapel that replicates the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague in Czech Republic. We also said hello to the huge statue of Monte Maria where we were hospitably welcomed by the unsullied zephyr and pious setting that is ideal for meditation and relaxation.

The last spot where we tossed our last shoot was a challenge, we descended to a stone ladder with 180 steps to reach the Pagkilatan beach. We also vanquished some rough and elevated stones, passed a cave with a shallow door and subdued the heat of the fervid sun. When we found the most remarkable site, we almost shouted with delight. The billowing waves were sources of consolation and vitality after the tiresome quest.

As the sun bid goodbye we also swayed our sweet farewell to each other with smiles of beaming satisfaction and we made a pact that we’ll discover more of Batangas together again, soon.

Biktima ng Bagyong Basyang at Army Worm, Binigyang Tulong

Dyan Hernandez — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:49:42 +0000

Kapit-bisig sa gitna kalamidad – sana’y manatiling matatag ang bayanihan ng mga Batanggenyo at laging tapat at taos-puso ang paglilingkod ng mga tao sa gobyerno ng lalawigan ng Batangas.

PRESS RELEASE Batangas Capitol July 29, 2010


Apektado ng bagyong Basyang at Army Worm sa 1st district binigyang tulong
Nasugbu, Batangas - Naghandog ng tulong para sa mga apektadong magsasaka at mga pamilyang apektado ng bagyong basyang sa unang distrito ng Batangas ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Batangas sa pamamagitan ng pagsasagawa ng Operation: Army Worm Crack Down at Financial Assistance Distribution.
Pinangunahan ni Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto ang pagbibigay tulong sa may 1065 na apektadong mga magsasaka at 1228 na pamilya na naapektuhan ng bagyo sa Dr. Francisco Calingasan Mem. Colleges Foundation Gymnasium noong ika-29 ng Hulyo 2010.
Ipinamahagi sa mga magsasaka mula sa may 75 Barangay mula sa bayan ng Nasugbu, Lian, Tuy, Balayan, Calatagan, Calaca, Lemery at Taal ang mga pesticides at back pack pesticide sprayers na handog ng Provincial Agriculture Office para sugpuin ang pesteng uod sa mga pananim.
Tumanggap naman ng financial assistance na nagkakahalaga ng kabuuang P4 na milyong piso para sa lahat ng indibidwal na lubhang naapektuhan ng sirain ni bagyong Basyang ang kanilang mga tahanan.
97 pamilya na totally damaged ang tahanan ang tumanggap ng halagang pitong libong piso, habang ang mga pamilyang partially damaged ang mga ari-arian ay pinagkalooban ng talong libong piso.
Sa kanyang pagharap sa mga taga unang distrito, ipinagbigay alam ni Governor Vi ang mga agarang hakbang na ginawa ng kanyang paumunuan sa pag-talima sa mga pangunahing pangangailangan ng mga apektadong bayan ng dalawang magkasunod na kalamidad.
Ipinaabot nito partikular sa mga naging biktima ni basyang ang maigting na pagahahanda at pakikipag ugnayan sa mga lokal na pamahalaan at mga lider barangay para sa mga mahahalagang impormasyon.
“Pakiusap ko po sa mga tao, lalo na yun mga malalapit sa dalampasigan, ilog at mga labak na pakinggan po natin ang mga awtoridad, pag sinabi po may signal na ang bagyo at patuloy na lumalakas agad na po tayong lumikas sapagkat walang kapantay na kapalit ang buhay ng bawat isa sa inyo” wika ng Gobernador.
Pinagbigay alam din nito ang kahandaan ng mga evacuation areas para sa kanilang mga pangangailangan

Kasamang naki-isa sa damayang bayan sina 1st District Congressman Tom Apacible, 1st District Board Members, Roman Rosales at Loring Bausan, Vice Governor Mark Leviste, Chief of Staff at Provincial Agriculture Office Head Pedrito Martin Dijan Jr, Provincial Social Welfare Department Head Jocelyn Montalbo. /Edwin V. Zabarte/PIO

Batangas Panutsa, the Sweetest Local Favorite

Dyan Hernandez — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 02:09:48 +0000

How well do you know the sweet deli, panutsa? It’s Batangas’ version of peanut brittle – made of caramelized brown sugar and whole peanuts. This sugar-loaded delicacy will surely give you enough dose for a sweet fixation.

Most of the panutsas you see whenever you commute or when you go to a pasalubong center in Southern Luzon provinces are made here in Batangas. Taal is known for making this simple yet very pleasing snack.

There are only two basic ingredients in making panutsa: dark brown sugar and peanuts. This flat disc-shaped snack has been a long time sweet treat favorite among Filipinos. And this bond between the nuts and the sugar had reached the farthest places in the country.

I love the smaller, bite size version of panutsa as they’re easier to eat and less sticky. Although the large ones, the crystallized ones, have the most authentic panutsa taste – with enough sugary and nutty flavor.

So for foreigners and tourists who want to experience this sweet panutsa treat, wait for vendors who will hop in a public bus to shout “Panutsa, panutsa!” and experience the sweetness melting in your mouth.

History and Town Profile of Taal

Jackelyn Aquino — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 07:38:45 +0000

Taal, is a 4th class municipality in the province of Batangas.

It is the Balisong and Barong Tagalog Capital of the Philippines.

Here is the History and Town Profile of Taal.

History
Taal’s present site is the third in a long and storied saga of prosperity, catastrophe and reconstruction.
Founded in 1572 by Spanish friars on the fertile bank of Pansipit River close to where the water emptied to Balayan Bay, Taal was devastated three years later by ferocious Moro pirates. The fledging town was then moved onwards to the shore at Taal Lake where it prospered and became eminent.
The fame suddenly ended. For in 1754 the deadly Taal Volcano erupted and reduced the town to wreckage. The Taaleños subsequently transferred the following year to safer and higher vicinity, not far away, on a lush inclined land where the town is now presently situated.
Once became the bustling capital of a province that grew to fame from 1732 to 1754, Taal was recognized as one of the most prosperous, progressive, and influential towns of the Philippines for more than two hundred years.

Town Profile:

Spoken Language:tagalong and english

Total Population: The 2007 population is 41,352 growing at 2.33% annually

Coordinates: 13° 53′ 39″ N, 120° 55′ 45″ E

Political Subdivisions: 42 Baranggays
Apacay
Balisong
Bihis
Bolbok
Buli
Butong
Carasuche
Cawit
Caysasay
Cubamba
Cultihan
Gahol
Halang
Iba
Ilog
Imamawo
Ipil
Luntal
Mahabang Lodlod
Niogan
Pansol
Poblacion 1
Poblacion 2
Poblacion 3
Poblacion 4
Poblacion 5
Poblacion 6
Poblacion 7
Poblacion 8
Poblacion 9
Poblacion 10
Poblacion 11
Poblacion 12
Poblacion 13
Poblacion 14
Pook
Seiran
Laguile
Latag
Tierra Alta
Tulo
Tatlong Maria

Climate: dry from November to April, and wet during the rest of the year

Economy:Agricultural production

sources:Taal Grand Lady of Batangas , tourist brochure
Wikipedia.org

Unravelling the True Beauty of Taal Volcano

Dyan Hernandez — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 07:20:07 +0000

Taal Volcano is one of the most admired landmarks here in the Philippines. It’s also one of the most attractive tourist destinations here in Batangas.

Lately, Taal Volcano has been acting up more than the usual causing fear among Batangueños. But in its subtle quietness and its incontestable beauty, Taal Volcano remains a gem for us.

Here’s a contributed work from Bernard Supetran, ‘an adopted son’ of Batangas, the province he learned to love. This is actually a scanned copy of the article published in Filipinas Magazine in the USA. It also has his travel accounts on the cultural town of Taal. I might as well share this work with you.

Note: Click the image for a larger view.

WOW Batangas » Taal

Have You Heard of Batangueno Inventors Gregorio Zara and Maria Orosa?

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