Nhick Ramiro Pacis 
Photos of Taal Volcano that I took during my vacation in the Philippines in 2011. This violently active volcano lies just a few miles south of Manila and it is one of the most picturesque nature destinations near the city. If you happen to be in the Philippines, this is a must-see!
Unresolved realities in Manila (and the whole Philippines) that need not be overlooked: these shanties are just a sampling of what a big percentage of Manila [still] looks like. Yes, we are always bragging about the fancy shopping centers and the classy condos being constructed everywhere but what about these people who almost don’t have anything but crumbling walls and ceilings?
Although converted into University of Tampa in 1933, this wonderful structure was a 3-million-dollar hotel built in the 1880’s. I had the pleasure of taking photos during Eric Whitacrer’s “Soaring Leap” workshop in January, 2012. I forgot to note that I separated the photos of the building from the ones from the workshop so when I saw them tonight I ended up editing them for my site. University of Tampa is such a nice nook in downtown Tampa and I think its buildings are among the most beautiful structures in the area. Here are some photos that I took.
Vic Omila and Aga Villagomeza sing “Mga Manok Ay Himasin” from “Ana Maria”, a Filipino zarzuela written by Severino Reyes and composed by Antonio Molina. Piano accompaniment by Nhick Ramiro Pacis. Performed on March 31, 2012 in Tampa, FLorida, “Ana Maria” is a musical play about the saga of a Filipina woman and her husband who is addicted to gambling and cockfighting.
“Tawag ng Tanghalan” is a singing competition for adults at PhilFest. Here are photos from the event:
120331 – First part of the second day of PhilFest 2012. This is a long day with various activities happening everywhere! If you haven’t been to PhilFest yet, you should …
“Ana Maria” was featured the the Filipino Channel (TFC) as a special presentation at PhilFest 2012. Many thanks to Don Tagala for this and many thanks to Rhovi Ann Allado, Jeanette Pangilinan, Vic Omila, Rose Demille, James Jamo, Aga Villagomeza, Ann Bartlett, Catherine Alchivar and Evan Pangilinan for being such a wonderful team to work with.
No piano duet can be more entertaining, sensual and emotional than the performances of Anderson & Roe Piano Duet! I was watching their “Blue Danube Fantasy” just before I went to bed last night and I ended up awake and inspired for at least three hours after that!
Do they look real? I think they do! These two roosters which were purchased from www.wildlifetrasures.com will be the fighting cocks to be used at “Ana Maria”, a Filipino-sarzuela by Antonio Molina and Severino Reyes at PhilFest 2012! Wildlife Treasures is a shop based in Ely, Minnesota and apparently, they are one of the few stores that carry lifesize realistic chickens. These and other wildlife items are available by visiting their site or calling (888) 669-0956. Debbie, the lovely receptionist, will guide you through the whole ordering process in a breeze!