Planning to Visit the Philippines Soon?

There are hundreds of tourists attractions in the Philippines. But as a lover of the Island of Marinduque (Home of the Morions and Heart of the Philippines), I am indeed partial to its beauty, charm and its friendly and hospitable residents. Therefore, help me achieve my dream of seeing this island becomes a world tourist destination, by telling all your friends and relatives about this site. Welcome, to you all, new readers and faithful followers of this site! The photo above is Poctoy White Beach in Torrijos, Marinduque with beautiful and majestic Mt Malindig in the background. Some of the photos and videos on this site, I do not own. However, I have no intention on infringing your copyrights.

Friday, January 23, 2026

Antonio Concepcion Delgado- Geni.com Relationship

Antonio Concepcion Delgado (December 21, 1917 – December 7, 1992) was a Filipino industrialist and civic leader who served as the Philippine Ambassador to the Vatican and acting president of the Philippine Chamber of Industries.

Early life

Antonio Delgado was born in San Pablo, Laguna, and was the fourth of eight children of physician Jose Maria Delgado (the first Philippine ambassador to the Vatican) and Felisa Concepcion.

Delgado graduated as valedictorian from San Beda College in 1933 and received his Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering, magna cum laude, from the University of Santo Tomas in 1937. He served in the Philippine Army and was a guerrilla fighter during World War II. In 1945, he married Nellie Chuidian, and they had four children: Jose Roberto, Lolita, Jose Antonio, and Jose Eduardo.

On July 28, 1963, Jose Antonio died along with the rest of the Philippine contingent to the 11th World Scout Jamboree in Marathon, Greece, 19 other Boy Scouts, three Scoutmasters, and a Chaplain, when their plane crashed in the Indian Ocean off the coast of BombayIndia. His parents established the Jose Antonio Delgado Memorial Foundation, Inc., known as the Ala-Ala Foundation, with the insurance money.

Business

In 1946, Delgado founded ACD, Inc., and in 1949, he established Delgado Brothers, Inc., which became the largest fully integrated transportation company in the Philippines. He founded nine other companies:

  • Caltex Floating Station (CFS)
  • Delgado Stevedoring (DelSteve)
  • Delgado Overland Corporation (DelLand)
  • Delgado Brokerage Corporation (DelBroCO)
  • Delgado Air Cargo (DelAir)
  • Delgado Shipyard Corporation (DelYard)
  • United Services Corporation (DelTrade)
  • Wood-Mosaic (Phil), Inc.
  • Delgado Brothers Hotel Corporation, (DBHC) which owned the Manila Hilton. It was the first 5-star hotel in the Philippines and the tallest building in the country from the late 1960s into the 1970s.

In the 1950s, Delgado became director of the Private Development Corporation of the Philippines (PDCP), Meralco, First United Bank and the Philippine Radio Educational and Information Center (Radio Veritas).

In the 1960s, Delgado was elected to the Philippine Chamber of Industries as President, to the Industrial Finance Committee as Chairman and to the Chamber of Commerce as a Member.

Recognitions

Delgado received awards from various organizations:

Scouting

At 15 years old, Delgado was a member of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines contingent to the 4th World Scout Jamboree in Gรถdรถllล‘, Hungary in 1933. Thirty-five years later, he became President of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines. At the 1971 World Scout Conference in TokyoJapan, he became the first Asian to be elected Chairman of the World Scout Committee.

The Boy Scouts of the Philippines state that Delgado conceived the World Scout Emblem as the first Asian World Scout Committee Chairman (from 1971 to 1973). However, the design was introduced at the 8th World Scout Jamboree in 1955, based on a 1939 earlier design by J. S. Wilson.

His son, industrialist Jose Eduardo Delgado, was a member of the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines.

Faith

Antonio Delgado served as Philippine Ambassador to the Holy See from 1975 to 1982, just as his father, Jose Maria Delgado, did from 1957 to 1961. Delgado searched for a possible first Filipino Saint. He believed in the cause of Lorenzo Ruiz, who was executed in Japan in the 17th century and worked for the beatification of Ruiz and his companions by Pope John Paul II in Manila on February 18, 1981. This was the first time in centuries that such rites were held outside Rome. Delgado retired in 1982 and subsequently served as Ambassador of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta to the Philippines from 1982 to 1988. He authored The Making of the First Filipino Saint in 1982, which was published in 1987. Delgado commissioned the Vatican Mosaic Studio to create an image of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz that is now installed at the Altar of the Martyrdom, St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican.

Meanwhile, Did you know that .....
The Philippines is the world’s leading exporter of "human capital," with nearly 10% of our population working abroad? This isn't a badge of honor, but a symptom of a "Brain Drain" where our most educated citizens—nurses, engineers, and teachers—are forced to build the infrastructure of other nations because our own economy hasn't industrialized enough to absorb them.
This exodus creates a "fiscal gift" to wealthy nations; for every professional who leaves, the Philippines effectively donates the cost of their 20-year education to a foreign economy, losing out on the taxes and innovation those individuals would have generated at home.

Finally, THE TRAVEL TAX SHOULD BE LISTED AS A FILIPINO INVENTION
While our Southeast Asian neighbors make it easier and more affordable for their citizens to see the world, Filipinos are still met with a ₱1,620 "exit fee" at the departure gate.
In 2002, the Philippines signed the ASEAN Tourism Agreement, pledging to phase out travel levies for ASEAN nationals. Yet, over two decades later, we are still paying one of the highest "citizen-only" taxes in the region.
Our neighbors have streamlined travel costs by embedding minimal fees directly into ticket prices. Filipinos, however, are hit twice: first through the travel tax, and again through terminal fees.
But where exactly does that money go?
According to TIEZA, it goes toward "nation-building." But asking Filipino travelers to subsidize local tourism as they head abroad is like charging someone a maintenance fee for a house they are currently leaving.
Why should a Filipino budget traveler be taxed for the basic right to travel? Amidst record-high inflation and soaring airfares, it feels contradictory to be one of the few nations charging its own citizens a premium just to cross its own borders.
While funding local heritage is a noble cause, we shouldn't be forced to choose between supporting our country and experiencing the world. We would much rather spend our ₱1,620 on several days' worth of meals abroad.

Finally, here's the top five news of the Day:

๐Ÿ—ž️ 1. Intensified Ukraine conflict & emergency power outages

Ukraine is experiencing widespread emergency power outages after Russian airstrikes hit energy infrastructure. Trilateral peace talks involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States are also underway in Abu Dhabi, but key disagreements remain unresolved. 

๐ŸŒ 2. Trump’s “Board of Peace” initiative shapes global diplomacy

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, former U.S. President Donald Trump launched a new geopolitical project called the Board of Peace. While intended to address conflicts like Gaza’s rebuilding, several allied nations declined to join, raising diplomatic tensions. 

๐Ÿ‡ป๐Ÿ‡ณ 3. Vietnam leader To Lam consolidates power

Vietnam’s Communist Party has reelected To Lam as General Secretary, positioning him to become the country’s most powerful leader in decades with ambitious economic growth goals. 

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡บ 4. European Union & Mercosur trade deal dispute

The European Commission signaled readiness to implement the Mercosur trade agreement with South America, despite the European Parliament delaying it and referring aspects to the EU’s top court. 

๐ŸŒพ 5. International agriculture initiative launched

A global team led by U.S. universities and international partners has begun a major effort to map sulfur deficiencies in the world’s crop systems — key for understanding soil health and improving food production.

Thursday, January 22, 2026

The Watsonville Riots, 1930


๐Ÿ“ฐ January 19, 1930 marks the start of the Watsonville Riots, a wave of white supremacist violence in California that targeted Filipino farmworkers through beatings, raids, expulsions, and mob terror.
๐Ÿ”ฅ For days, Filipinos were hunted through the streets, attacked at labor camps, and thrown from bridges. On January 23, 22-year-old Fermin Tobera was murdered in his sleep when white rioters fired into a labor camp. His killer was never held accountable.
๐Ÿ’ฅ The violence spread across California and throughout the West Coast and triggered protests in the Philippines, where Tobera was mourned as a martyr. These attacks helped justify racist laws banning interracial marriage, restricting Filipino immigration, and dividing workers to protect white power and profit.
⚖️ What happened in Watsonville did not end with the mobs. It was absorbed into the legal and political order that followed. Many of those structures remain intact today.

Ninety-six years ago, around January 1930, the 
Watsonville Race Riotserupted in Watsonville, California, where white mobs violently attacked Filipino farmworkers, fueled by anti-immigrant sentiment, racial prejudice, and fear over Filipino men associating with white women, leading to violence, destruction of property, and highlighting severe racial discrimination against Filipinos in early 20th-century America. These riots were part of broader anti-Filipino violence across California, culminating in stricter anti-miscegenation laws. 
Key Details:
  • When: January 1930 (approximately 96 years ago from 2026).
  • Where: Watsonville, California, a major agricultural area.
  • Who: White mobs targeting Filipino farm laborers (Manongs).
  • Why: Deep-seated racism, economic competition, and opposition to relationships between Filipino men and white women, which challenged racial norms and laws.
  • What Happened: White residents assaulted Filipinos, vandalized Filipino-owned businesses, and attacked labor camps, causing significant harm and fear.
  • Impact: The riots and similar incidents led California to amend its anti-miscegenation law to specifically bar marriages between white people and "members of the Malay race" (Filipinos), further restricting Filipino rights. 
These events underscore the intense racial discrimination faced by Filipino immigrants in the U.S. during this period, a critical part of Filipino-American history. 
Finally the top Five News of the Day 

1. Global markets rise as U.S. eases Greenland tensions at Davos
Stock markets rebounded sharply after President Trump’s reversal on threatened tariffs on European allies tied to Greenland negotiations at the World Economic Forum, following a framework deal with NATO on Arctic cooperation. Investor sentiment improved and volatility measures eased. 

2. European leaders highlight unity after U.S.–Greenland dispute
At an emergency EU summit, leaders including France’s Emmanuel Macron stressed European unity in response to recent U.S. diplomatic pressure over Greenland. Debate continues on Arctic security and sovereignty. 

3. Trump prosecutor tells Congress former president willfully broke laws
Former Special Counsel Jack Smith criticized Trump’s actions and narratives before a House panel, asserting that Trump “willfully” violated laws during his prosecutions. 

4. Homicide rates in U.S. cities decline sharply
A new report shows a significant 21% drop in homicide rates across dozens of major U.S. cities, marking one of the most notable decreases in recent crime statistics. 

5. U.S. Vice President heads to Minnesota amid immigration tensions
Vice President J.D. Vance traveled to Minnesota to address high tensions over controversial immigration operations and enforcement actions, reflecting ongoing domestic policy disputes. 

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Marinduque Island- My Second Home

Reminiscing Our Pleasant Years in Marinduque, Philippines- Our Second Home 

MARINDUQUE ISLAND, OUR SECOND HOME: Even today, the island’s silhouette remains a favorite sight for travelers passing through Barangay Tungib–Lipata, where visitors often stop to take photos with Bellarocca gracing the horizon. Though its doors are temporarily closed, the island’s allure endures, its white structures glowing against sea and sky, a reminder of the luxury and tranquility that once awaited on Marinduque’s own slice of paradise. This resort was once a 5 Star luxury haven, only about 30 minutes drive from our beach house, Chateau Du Mer in Amoingon, Boac.



During Bellarocca's few years of successful operation, it has been compared to Santorini, Greece. Macrine and I stayed at this resort for 3 Days at $400 per night. For Details and more photos of Bellarocca, read the the three related article at bottom of the page.


Related Articles: 









On Our Way to a Private Tour of Bellarocca ( Macrine and I with Annie Miles and Aquilina Rivas), Dec 28, 2010

Today,  January 21, 2026, President Trump made several major announcements regarding his bid to acquire 
Greenland
 during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland
. 
Key Developments from Davos
  • Rules Out Military Force: In a significant shift in rhetoric, Trump explicitly stated he "won't use force" to take control of Greenland. He previously refused to rule out military or economic force but now claims he "doesn't have to" because the U.S. is "unstoppable" regardless.
  • Suspension of Tariffs: Trump announced he will not move forward with a 10% tariff on eight European nations that was scheduled to begin on February 1. These tariffs were previously threatened as a pressure tactic against countries opposing the U.S. acquisition of the island.
  • "Framework" Deal Reached: Following a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump claimed they have formed a "framework of a future deal" regarding Greenland and the broader Arctic region. He did not provide specific details but stated the solution would be "great" for both the U.S. and all NATO nations.
  • Ultimatum to Allies: Despite dropping the immediate threat of tariffs, Trump issued a warning to allies: "You can say yes and we will be very appreciative, or you can say no and we will remember".

Is Filipino Food Finally Getting the Global Spotlight it Deserves?

Is Filipino food finally getting the global spotlight it deserves? Michelin Guide hails Philippines as most exciting food destination for 2026.
The Philippines has been named one of the MICHELIN Guide’s “Most Exciting Food Destinations” for 2026, becoming the only Southeast Asian country to receive the distinction.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco credited the recognition to the successful launch of the MICHELIN Guides in Manila and Cebu in 2025, which brought Filipino cuisine to the global stage. She said the honor supports efforts to promote sustainable tourism while celebrating authentic Filipino food, traditions, and the people behind them.
MICHELIN inspectors praised Filipino cuisine for blending time-honored traditions with modern innovation, noting the rise of young local chefs shaping a dynamic food culture. Iconic dishes like sisig, sinigang, adobo, and inasal were highlighted for gaining international recognition.
The 2026 MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs and Cebu recognized over 100 
establishments, including one Two-Star restaurant, eight One-Star restaurants, 25 Bib Gourmand picks, and 74 MICHELIN-Selected dining spots, along with special awards for sustainability, service, young chefs, and mixology.


FI Spotlight: Petmalu! Why Filipino Food Is Exploding in ...
Yes, Filipino food is finally getting significant global recognition, marked by the Michelin Guide naming the Philippines a top food destination for 2026 and the launch of Michelin Guides in Manila and Cebu, highlighting rising chefs and unique flavors like sisigadobo, and sinigang. This follows successes by Filipino restaurants worldwide earning Michelin stars and nods, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern techniques and solidifying its place on the international culinary map. 
Key Indicators of the Global Spotlight:
  • Michelin Guide Recognition (2026): The Philippines was chosen as one of the "most exciting food destinations," signaling a major moment for Filipino cuisine.
  • Launch of Michelin Guide Philippines: The inaugural guide for Manila and Cebu in late 2025 brought Filipino food to the global stage, celebrating local talent.
  • International Success: Restaurants like Chicago's Kasama (first Filipino Michelin-starred restaurant) and London's Donia (Bib Gourmand) prove Filipino food's fine-dining viability.
  • Emergence of Young Chefs: A new generation of Filipino chefs is blending traditional recipes with international techniques, pushing culinary boundaries. 
Why Now?
  • Culinary Evolution: Chefs are confidently presenting their unique flavors and stories, moving beyond historical perceptions.
  • Food Tourism: The recognition is boosting culinary tourism, encouraging global foodies to explore the Philippines.
  • Unique Flavor Profile: Filipino food's distinct blend of indigenous, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences offers a unique taste. 
In essence, Filipino food is transitioning from a niche cuisine to a recognized global player, with recent Michelin endorsements marking a significant milestone in its long-overdue international appreciation. 

Meanwhile, here's a list of Places Nearby, Where You Can Enjoy Filipino Cuisine

filipino food near me ( SFO, South, North and East Bay)

Tropa Bistro in Lafayette and FOB Kitchen in Oakland, I highly recommend;     

The SeaFood City Mall ๐Ÿ’šin Concord has several fast food Filipino restaurants serving authentic Filipino Food.  Every time I visit the Mall, I feel I am in the Philippines. There is also a supermarket selling all imported goodies/groceries from the Philippines.  

๐Ÿ’šseafood city concord

Finally, My Reel of the Day= Tourist Spots in the Philippines: 

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1234087882151440

My Cravings For the Week: Adobo Na Pusit:(Calamari)


Finally, the top five News of the Day:

1) Geopolitical tensions escalate at Davos over Greenland and US-EU ties
Controversy grew at the World Economic Forum as President Trump pushed for negotiations over Greenland’s future, criticized NATO and EU policies, and drew strong reactions from European leaders — even freezing work on a key EU-US trade deal. 

2) Trump gives provocative speech at Davos
At Davos, Trump ruled out taking Greenland by force but reiterated that negotiations should begin immediately on U.S. strategic interests — sparking global commentary and heightened scrutiny of his foreign policy remarks. 

3) Trump makes controversial comments about Canada in Davos
In comments at Davos, President Trump said Canada should be “grateful” for U.S. support and characterized bilateral benefits as “freebies,” intensifying diplomatic friction between the two countries. 

4) Analysis of Trump’s marathon press briefing on his one-year term
A detailed fact-check surfaced following President Trump’s extended press briefing marking the one-year anniversary of his second term, examining claims and media narratives. 

5) Federal attorney Lindsey Halligan resigns after criticism
Trump-appointed U.S. attorney Lindsey Halligan stepped down following sharp criticism from judges over her performance and handling of high-profile cases. 

 

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