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JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2014
Jun Aguilar
Paul Edward P. Sison
James Paul C. Agulay
Ma. Lourdes Navarro
Christopher P. Papagayo
Adelson Genito
Carmela Salazar
Ragie Mary Dolatre
Rhyan Quilapio
Marjun Fadriquela
Randie Esteves
Warlito Dumaquita
Armand Solacito
Salvador A. Narra
Atty. Florella Almarez
Editorial Adviser:
Editor-in-Chief:
Managing Editor:
Associate Editor:
Layout Artist:
Writers:
Marketing &Advertising:
Manager Circulation:
Circulation:
Legal Consultant:
Make it Marikina is published by the Public Information Ofce,
City Government of Marikina
2/f Marikina City Hall, Shoe Ave., Brgy. Sta. Elena, Marikina City
Telefax: 646-6451
Email:
makeitmarikinamagazine@gmail.com
Website: www.marikina.gov.ph
www.infomarikina.webs.com
HON. DEL R. DE GUZMAN
City Mayor
contents
mayors
3 Live. Laugh. love
4 La Isla Buffet: The perfect island for
buffet hunters
5 Bellinis: Love at frst sight
6 Make it marikina:
Councilors push it through
7 Other side of a Judo champion
8 State of the City Address:
Thinking big, accomplishing
continuous progress
12 Pefect moments:
From shoemaking to baking
13 Spotlight: Gil Fernando Avenues best
14 Love is all around
15 Gibson Shoes:
Tougher than the usual
16 Marikina joins the celebration
of Chinese New Year
editors note
message
My heartiest greetings as we welcome
our traditional New Year 2014 and cel-
ebrate the Chinese New Year as well as
Valentines Day. Tese three consecutive
observances drive home the point that in
starting the year right, the driving motive
must consist of love, kindness and com-
passion.
Te momentum has been set when
afer a series of calamities hit the coun-
try, a generous outpouring of sympathy,
empathy and care ensued. Tere was a
collective efort to reach out to victims
whose lives were practically shattered.
We gave a part of ourselves to somehow
alleviate their sufering and heal their pain.
I believe the gesture was just as fulflling as it was therapeutic. Te
spirit of giving and commiserating during very difcult times enhances
our humanity and reconnects us with one another in a most meaning-
ful way.
Te city sent no less than three waves of support to the victims of
the earthquake in Bohol and of supertyphoon Yolanda. Te devastation
was massive and almost unimaginable but they remained undaunted
and determined more than ever, to rise up, pick up the pieces and re-
claim their rightful place in the scheme of things. Even in the midst of
great tragedy, there is always a source of inspiration and it comes from
them.
We are likewise vulnerable to natural calamities. It is our good for-
tune though that we have not sufered as much. And so, we have to
count our blessings and share some to others more in need. Meanwhile,
we have to keep upgrading our disaster preparedness to be more vigi-
lant and resilient at all times even as we relentlessly pursue economic
growth and social development.
Let us all look forwards to a safer and a more prosperous year ahead.
Marikeos love to eat. And, it is said that if your food is deli-
cious, Marikeos will patronize you and go out of their way even if
your place is just set up as a carinderia at the ground foor (silong)
of a small house.
Tis is what I learned as head of business development of a
very popular restaurant chain while doing market studies before
the turn of the century.
At that time, Marikeos were not too discriminating in terms
of aesthetics when patronizing local establishments. However, to
whet their aspirational cravings, they had to go out of Marikina to
try out destination places frequented by AB families so they could
see and be seen.
Tings have changed. With the ongoing metamorphosis of
Marikinas restaurant scene, we no longer have to travel far for that
romantic Valentine dinner, family get togethers, and nights out
with the barkada.
Te Gil Fernando and Lilac areas now boast of bars and restau-
rants that attract even non-residents who enjoy themselves enough
to become regular habitus who spread positive word-of-mouth.
Now is the best time to live in Marikina to invest in Mariki-
na and to patronize Marikina goods and services.
Remember our call-to-action Make it Marikina!
PAUL EDWARD SISON
live. laugh. love.
Stop and smell t owers
Make it MARIKINA 3
Te little mischievous matchmaker has been busy lurking just around
the corner, aiming his love arrows to his next unsuspecting victim. You
feel a sudden thud. Your heart skips a beat and cant get your eyes of the
(in your own, personal opinion: good looking) stranger about to cross
your path. What do you do? Well, what can you do? Youre in love
or probably just infatuated. Nevertheless, it feels like a mix of diferent
emotions strung together to create a beautiful bouquet of piercing bliss.
Love is in the air.
Love, relationships and fowers have a lot in common when u got the
chance to see for yourself the fowers, sellers and the forists at the park-
ing area in front of the Marikina Post Ofce. How you nurture it afect
its growth. In arranging a bouquet of fowers, one has to meticulously
choose the quantity, colors and sizes of the forets to be included in order
to fabricate a cluster of picturesque arrangement - just as emotions have
to be fastidiously adjusted each and every time in order for things to
work out -thoughts of wisdom gained from conversing with people who
have had more than 20 years of experience in handling fowers.
Romana Rodriguez, Norma Amido, Virginia Arenas, June Alvaro
and Evelyn Cruz are all seasoned forists. Some of them started selling
fowers at sidewalks of Marikina and have been for more than 30 years.
During the term of Bayani Fernando they were invited to relocate to
stalls provided for them to which, until present, are still located. Tey
have expressed their appreciation towards this deed.
Te qualities of their fowers they sell are at par with those sold at
major fower distributors from other cities. Prices here are almost similar
too some even cheaper. Tey sell various assortments from Stargaz-
ers, Casa Blanca, Carnation, to Tulips, Roses, Orchids or Calla lilies
each fower pedantically selected and assured of quality.
Flower arrangements also are of high standards. So skilled are their
motifs that most of the time, they are invited to arrange for weddings,
birthdays, inaugurations and the likes. Drop by their stalls at the parking
lot in front of the Marikina Post Ofce, Marikina.
4 Make it MARIKINA
Somewhere in the peaceful barangay of
Marikina Heights in Marikina (#284 Gen.
Ordoez St. to be specifc), is an island
for bufet hunters everywhere.
La Isla Bufet, a restaurant that started
out as a cooking hobby of Ms. Cecilia De
Guzman Sanchez during 1997, now serves
a wide assortment of cuisines from their
eat/drink-all-you-can bufet that happens
every Tuesday to Sunday, 11 A.M. 2 P.M.
for lunch, and 6 P.M. to 9 P.M. for dinner.
Ms. Cecilia, a single parent to three
children and a dentist by profession, used
to cook for friends. Little did she know
that later, her cooking fair would spread
by word and would entice diferent fam-
ished people and companies to seek for her
culinary skills. Her success gave birth to
La Isla Bufet Restaurant, which opened
September of 2012. Later on, her daugh-
ter, the eldest of the three siblings, Crenz
Lagpacan, would step up and follow in her
footsteps.
Crenz, like her mom, loves to cook. She
took up HRM during her college and em-
barked to Ziu Hua in China for her OJT.
She also trained at Dusit Hotel and worked
for the catering industry for 4 years.
She now manages the restaurant, with the
guidance of her mom, and is doing a pretty
good job.
But enough now of our two lovely ladies.
On with the food!
La Islas bufet menu includes Kare-kare
with shrimp paste (favorite of mom and
daughter, by the way, and a MUST try),
Beef broccoli, Chicken ala king, Lechon
Paksiw, Pork dinuguan, Sweet and sour
fsh fllet, Fish with Tofu in black beans,
Pansit canton guisado, Fresh lumpia with
peanut garlic sauce and their house special,
Seafood mixed. For soup, they serve Crab
and corn. Dessert includes Fruit salad, Cof-
fee jelly and the (mmmm!) Turones. For
our Vegetarian bufet hunters, a salad bar
that serves Vegetable and Macaroni salad is
waiting for you while bottomless Iced tea is
available for the thirsty.
The perfect island for buffet hunters
Mmmmm! Molto delizioso! Pardon my
Italian, ladies and gentlemen, but afer expe-
riencing the delectable gastronomies served
at Bellinis Caf, one can truly say eccezi-
onalmente Italiano! (Exceptionally Italian!).
So whats the story of Bellinis? Roberto
was a photographer covering the EDSA rev-
olution while Ma. Luisa was a photographer
for Malacaang. An acquaintance intro-
duced them to each other. It was Love at frst
sight. Te two became inseparable and were
always together (mostly during coverage).
Before Roberto lef for Italy, he proposed to
Ma. Luisa ---who, without second thoughts,
said yes. Afer living and training in Italy, the
two decided to open up their second branch
in Marikina.
Love at
first sight
Located at #310 Shoe Ave., Sto. Nio, Marikina
City, Bellinis Caf boasts of the favor and Italian
authenticity of their dishes. And by authentic, they
mean business. Te ingredients infused to create a
symphony of mouthwatering cuisines here are im-
ported all the way from Italy.
Having a seating capacity of 150, an interior glazed
with wall paintings of Venice, Bas reliefs of the Coli-
seum and the Leaning tower of Pisa, adorned with
comfortable couches and T.V. on the second foor
and garnished with free Wi-Fi, one can truly experi-
ence Italy here.
Mushroom, grilled eggplant, cherry to-
matoes, Italian cheese, Anchovies are but
a few of the appetizers served before your
journey to food bliss. Teir Risotto Guan-
setto, Gnocchi Tartufo Funghi con Pros-
cuito, Maremara Pizza, Diavola, Arrosto
di Maele, Rosticciana and the Palpitone ala
Ma. Luisa (which happens to be the crea-
tion of Chef Ma. Luisa, hands-on business
woman and wife to Bellinis founder, Rob-
erto) are all cooked to excellence for the sat-
isfaction of both your mouth and famished
paunch. Seal the deal afer your enchanting
experience with their meals. Bellinis is also
known for their favorsome cakes. Munch
on their Orange cake, Obama cake and their
sons creation, the Magma cake --- all wor-
thy to be included in your wanted list.
Make it MARIKINA 5
6 Make it MARIKINA
A citys art refects its culture. A citys culture refects its lifestyle. A citys
lifestyle refects its citizen and government.
Some of the few realizations that came to mind during an interview with
one of the pretty faces of the city council in Marikina, Councilor Xy-za.
Also the citys Culture and Arts chairman, she couldnt help but to express
how proud she is of her fellow Marikenyos during our little chitchat.
And who wouldnt be?
Marikina has produced numerous artists and celebrities. Fernando Jo-
sef, Angel Aquino, Bing Imao, Bryan Tenorio are some to name a few. In
the same manner as how a childs accomplishment brings fulfllment to
his/her parents, these personalities have given honor not just to themselves
and their families, but to Marikina as well.
Teir success brings to mind that the community to which they live in,
has, in one way or another, been of infuence to them. Afer all, it takes a
community to raise a child.
Cheap meat products, quality shoes, hardworking citizens and a special
business zone, Marikina has indeed emerged as one of the top cities to
invest in, as pointed out (to which we have also noticed) by the very accom-
modating councilor, Ariel Cuaresma (Marikinas Trade, Commerce
MakeitMarikina:
ORGANIZATION OF THE
7TH CITY COUNCIL OF MARIKINA
Efective January 7, 2014
Presiding Ofcer Vice Mayor JOSE FABIAN I. CADIZ, M.D.
President Pro-Tempore Coun. MARK ALBERT J. DEL ROSARIO
Floor Leader Coun. EVA AGUIRRE-PAZ
Assistant Floor Leader Coun. THADDEUS ANTONIO M. SANTOS, JR.
CHAIRPERSONS and MEMBERS of the STANDING COMMITTEES
APPROPRIATION
Chairman : Coun. MARK ALBERT J. DEL ROSARIO
BARANGAY AFFAIRS
Chairman : Coun. LEVY D.L. DE GUZMAN
COOPERATIVES
Chairman : Coun. RUBEN R. REYES
COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Chairman : Coun. JOSEPH B. BANZON
CULTURE AND ARTS
Chairman : Coun. XY-ZA R. DIAZEN
DANGEROUS DRUGS
Chairman : Coun. FRANKIE C. AYUSON
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS, MITIGATION AND MANAGEMENT
Chairman : Coun. XY-ZA R. DIAZEN
EDUCATION
Chairman : Coun. EVA AGUIRRE-PAZ
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Chairman : Coun. SAMUEL S. FERRIOL
FOOTWEAR & LEATHERCRAFT INDUSTRY
Chairman : Coun. MARIO M. DE LEON
GAMES & AMUSEMENTS
Chairman : Coun. RONNIE S. ACUA
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS, ETHICS & ACCOUNTABILITIES
Chairman : Coun. MARIO. DE LEON
HEALTH & SANITION
Chairman : Coun. SUSANA P. MAGTUBO
HOUSING, ZONING, URBAN PLANNING
& COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Chairman : Coun. RONNIE S. ACUA
HUMAN RIGHTS & JUSTICE
Chairman : Coun. PAUL B. DAYAO
INFRASTRUCTURE
Chairman : Coun. ERNESTO M. FLORES
LABOR AND CAPITAL RELATIONS
Chairman : Coun. MARK ALBERT J. DEL ROSARIO
PARKS DEVELOPMENT
Chairman : Coun. JOSEPH B. BANZON
PEACE & ORDER, PUBLIC SAFETY AND SECURITY
Chairman : Coun. FRANKIE C. AYUSON
PEOPLES PARTICIPATION
Chairman : Coun. SUSANA P. MAGTUBO
RULES AND CODIFICATION OF RULES
Chairman : Coun. EVA AGUIRRE-PAZ
SENIOR CITIZENS & PERSONS WITH DISABILITY AFFAIRS
Chairman : Coun. THADDEUS ANTONIO M. SANTOS, JR.
TOURISM
Chairman : Coun. WILLIE N. CHAVEZ
TRADE, COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
Chairman : Coun. ARIEL V. CUARESMA
TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC
Chairman : Coun. ERNESTO M. FLORES
WAYS AND MEANS
Chairman : Coun. THADDEUS ANTONIO M. SANTOS, JR.
WOMEN AND FAMILY AFFAIRS
Chairman : Coun. PAUL B. DAYAO
YOUTH AND SPORTS DEVELOPMENT
Chairman : Coun. FRANKIE C. AYUSON
COUNCILORS
push it through!
Coun. Xy-za R. Diazen
Coun. Ariel V. Cuaresma
and Industry chairman) during an
interview with him. Te cleanliness,
Peace and Order, and the generous
tax discount the city ofers are but
a few reasons why Marikina is an
excellent choice to engage in trade,
commerce and industry.
Te trafc, as crowded as it may
seem, fows continuously. Tanks to
the hardworking CTMDO, Baran-
gay Ofcials, MMDAs, disciplined
citizens and courteous drivers who
contribute to the free fowing trafc.
Marikina is also one of the few cities
where crossing lanes for pedestrian
and loading and unloading areas are
given due respect. Did we mention
that there is no color-coding scheme
here?
Make it MARIKINA 5
Once upon a time, afer the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo, a kid from
Olongapo and his family transferred to his aunts house in Marikina
in the hopes of starting life anew. Little did he know that later, this
event would be the turning point of his life.
Gilbert Ramirez, the kid from Olongapo-turned-Marikeo, is now
bringing honor not just to his family, but to Marikina and the Philip-
pines as well.
A mild-mannered, sof-spoken person who loves to jog with
his wife, watch cooking shows and cartoons on T.V. with his son,
cook food for his family, and dreams a simple dream of a vacation
in Boracay, you wouldnt expect that this person is THE South East
Asia Games gold medalist in Judo. Kinda reminds you of Dr. Bruce
Banner, right? Bruce Banner, you know, Te Incredible Hulk in his
peaceful form? And why would he not remind you of the Hulk? A
shy, timid person who becomes a beast inside the competition mat.
See the similarity?
Gilberts love for Judo began during his secondary education at
Marikina High School. One day, while he was walking, he happened
to pass by a group of students inviting schoolmates to try-out for
the Judo varsity of their school. One of them asked him. Having no
background whatsoever of the sport, he did and later found himself
a member of the schools Judo varsity team. He also joined the Judo
varsity of Universidad de Manila upon entering college. But his train-
ing didnt stop there. He also underwent training in Budu University,
University of Tsukuba, Kinki Perpetual and Tsuyama Judo Club all
in Japan.He has already joined a total 50 competitions (Local and
International), to which he dominated 24 of these. He will be having
his next competition in Korea come 2nd week of September 2014.
But there is more to Judo than the honor it has brought him and the country. It actu-
ally served as a bridge for the Happy ever afer of the love story between him and his
then-crush-now-turned-Mrs. Ramirez, Nikky (thanks to their friend and text messag-
ing). Te couple now has a 6 year-old son, Amiel John (a xerox copy if his father by the
way), who, at his young age, is also a medalist in Judo. Also, he now works as an ofce
staf of the Philippine Air Force. He also wishes for a Judo club in Marikina, to which he
expressed his support and willingness to mentor would-be students.
J
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S
Other side of a
Judo champion
Tis one of the major thoroughfares in
Marikina was formerly known as Angel
Tuazon St, Gil Fernando Avenues com-
plete name is Mayor Gil Fernando Ave-
nue. Te avenue connects starts at Mar-
cos Highway leading in to the heart of
the city. Te story behind the Avenues
name is that Gil Fernando was a former
mayor of Marikina City. In addition, he
is also the father of former Marikina
City Mayor Bayani Fernando.
Specially designated for businesses, commercial
use, entertainments and amusements, Gil Fer-
nando Avenue is one of the top places to visit in
Marikina.
Once there be sure to visit several establishments cruising along this avenue, it has a
wide variety of hidey-holes to choose from. Tere are several banks, restaurants, gas sta-
tions and automotive shops. While in the evening, this usual-like avenue transforms into a
series of bars and restaurants geared up for nightlife, an ultimate place for gimmicks, dates
and chill-out spot in Marikina.
You can cruise by via transportation, although we would defnitely suggest walking.
Walking while holding hands, while eating, while talking any way you want to walk,
walk. Its as healthy as it is a great way to bond and browse the avenue while picking a
place where you and your friends, family, companion or self can hangout.
8 Make it MARIKINA
One main artery of Marikina City
Gil Fernando Avenue
Auto Shops
REYAUTOELECTRICAL SHOP
BANTUGCARAIRCON
M.S.E. AUTODETAILING
OLOSTOUCHAUTODETAILING
XTREMEAUTOCENTER
Banks
MARIKINACATHOLICSCHOOL
CRESTOTRADINGCORP.
CITYCARMARIKINAINC.
ACADEMYASIA
INTERIORPLAZA
POTOFGOLDDISCO
STARPALACESUPERCLUB
SILVERSTONEGARDEN
SUNRISEPOKER
STIVDISCO&KTV
INTEGRATEDSCHOOL
FORYOUNGCHILDREN
SANSESGARDEN
Its next main intersection is Sumulong High-
way where you will fnd Bluewave Marquinton
Mall and Robinsons Supermarket. Turning right
from Sumulong Highway will lead to Vista Valley
subdivision, Marikina Valley Medical Center and
the Katipunan Sumulong extension which is a
shortcut leading to SSS Village, Marikina Heights
and Parang. Turning lef from Sumulong High-
way leads to Bayan where City Hall, Marikina
Sports Center, Amang Rodriguez Medical Center,
Marikina Riverpark and the City Market are
within close range.
Moving forward will lead to City Engineering
Ofces, and streets heading towards Paliparan,
Concepcion Uno and Concepcion Dos and sev-
eral neighborhoods such as Goodrich Village and
Oro Vista Subdivision.
Its next main intersection is Sumulong
Highway where you will fnd Bluewave Marquin-
ton. Tis main road is also the route of public
transportation such as the Marikina Bus Line
heading to San Mateo and the Cubao-Montalban
jeepneys and Tamaraw FXs headed to Montal-
ban. Recently, the Fairview-Cainta jeep route
also passes through Gil Fernando heading to the
Batasan Road in San Mateo.
Make it MARIKINA 9
Wellness Others
Mayor Del De Guzman delivered his State of
the City Address in January 29 at the Marikina
Convention Center. He lauded the citys accom-
plishments that resulted to gaining of the follow-
ing awards: Top Tree Cities in the Philippines in
Economic Dynamism (given by National Com-
petitive Council), Top Ten Most Competitive in
the Philippines (given by National Competitive
Council) and the KALASAG Award as 2nd Best
in Highly Urbanized City in Disaster Risk Re-
duction and Management (given by the Ofce of
Civil Defense and DILG)
Tese are some of the important accomplish-
ments in the past year.
In the feld of Administrative and Social
Governance, Marikina has successfully launched
the citywide and barangay level validation of the
results of Community-Based Monitoring Sys-
tem (CBMS). Tat in the frst time produced a
source of reliable data that can be used in the
true participatory and consultative city planning
and outlining timely programs and projects. Te
printing and distribution of Citizens Charter as
a guide about the services of the city government
that serves as a proof of our serious delivery of
transparent and client-friendly services. Te 50%
discount on real property tax where we were able
to produce enough funds for the Special Educa-
tion Fund (SEF) to fulfll the needs in the public
schools. Te two public schools: Marikina High
School and Concepcion Elementary School
were also included in the 34 model schools in
the whole country to be the pilot of Continuous
Improvement Program un der the Total Quality
Management in Basic Education Project of the
Department of Education.
In the feld of Social Services, the City Social
Welfare and Development Ofce has recorded
7,332 benefciaries in the Pantawid Pamilya
Pilipino Program (4Ps) with the help of the
DSWD-NCR. Te Children-in-Confict-with-
the-Law (CICL) Center was also inaugurated
and launched from the 25 million fund incen-
tives that was achieved by the city as one of the
four LGUs of Metro Manila that was given a
Good Housekeeping Seal by DILG. Distributed
a total of 3,925 PhilHealth ID and Membership
Data Record (MDR).
In the fled of Economy, Sapatos Festival 2013
was launched and the yearly Shoe Caravan in the
Metro Manila LGUs, malls and near business
centers that on the last count earned 45 million
pesos or 92, 585 pairs of shoes. Completed the
replacement of lights in our public market from
sodium lights to high efciently LED lights. Te
LR-PESO listed a total of 5,115 registered appli-
cants on the last held quarterly job fairs. Records
show that BPLO has listed 2, 313 new businesses
registered, 13, 201 renewed while 649 were al-
ready closed. Tis is a proof that we encouraged
additional investors. Te Gross Revenue Collec-
tion in the year 2013 reached 1. 743 billion, this
is again despite of the 50% on real property taxes.
10 Make it MARIKINA
THINKING BIG, ACCOMPLISHING CONTINUOUS PROGRESS
In the feld of Peace, Order and Security, 100 CCTV cameras
were installed on strategic places of the city together with the cre-
ation of one state-of the-art Command Center in Marikina City
Health Ofce 2nd foor that will be fully operational this year.
Te Text Blast Equipment is also on working that has the abil-
ity to send text messages on whatever brand of cellphone within
the 500-meter radius. In the feld of Environment, Marikina-
Brampton Friendship Park was repaired and the Knights of Co-
lumbus Park, Cityhood Park, Korean Park was made together
with other open spaces. Te planting of 6,000 seedlings of
hardwood species and 1,000 samplings of robusta cofee for the
regreening and rehabilitation of the Marikina Watershed with
the help of DENR, some big companies, universities, NGOs and
civic groups. Te city maintained 100% garbage collection ef-
fciency in the whole year. Te successful launching of the City-
hood Fun Ride that was witnessed by 750 bicycle enthusiasts
is a proof of the city being bicycle and environmental friendly.
Marikina was also chosen to be the host of the 2nd International
River Summit that will be held on the month of November 2014
in Marikina Convention Center.
In the feld of Health, the city achieved the following distinct
awards: Red Orchid Award of DOH about the Anti-Smoking
Campaign; 2013 Most Outstanding Healthy Lifestyle Advocate;
Champion for Health Governance Award and Outstanding
Botika ng Barangay 2013. Te building of the Balubad Health
Center and Lying-in Clinic and the Tumana Health Center are
also underway.
Make it MARIKINA 11
In the feld of Pagawaing-Bayan, pumping
stations at Green Street, Concepcion and at
Riverside Drive in Provident Village are already
on operation. Tis is a big help on preventing
high water level during heavy rainfall on the said
places. Te Phase I of the new Legislative Build-
ing was already fnished. Te construction of the
new Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina that
has 6 foors and 72 classrooms was already start-
ed. New engineering equipment like long-arm
backhoe, telehandler, bobcat and ten-wheeler
dump truck, aerial basket and dredging machine
will also be coming.
All of these were accomplished regardless of
our lack on the fnancial aspect because of the
continuous implementation of the 50% discount
on real property taxes.
Meanwhile, some of the important events
in the feld of legislation are the frst ever live
streaming of the paperless session of the council
last July 24. A historical on its aim to give access
to the Councilors on the legislative documents
in digital form. Te following ordinances were
also passed: the creation of City Veterans Afairs
Ofce (CVAL); approval of the Revised Senior
Citizens Code; adopting of the Marikina Revenue
Code; empowering of the implementation of the
Tuberculosis Control Program, and the guarantee
of all applicants of business and building permits
including the construction and repair works will
frst get Public Liability Insurance.
12 Make it MARIKINA
In the year 2014, the infrastructure projects that
we will be funding are the following: New City Hall,
PLMar Building-Phase II, Legislative Building-
Phase II, CICL Building-Phase II, Manpower De-
velopment Center, Multi-Purpose Covered Gyms
at Fortune and Marikina Heights, City Childrens
Library, Double Arm Twenty Nine Units High Mast
at Katipunan Street, Concepcion Uno, Flood Con-
trol at Concepcion Creek, Balubad Health Center,
Road and Roadside Improvement in diferent Ba-
rangays.
To fully deliver these privileged services for the
Marikeos, the city government will be launching
the Serbisyo Coupon a creative strategy that will
be lead by the General Services Ofce. Tis Ser-
bisyo Coupon will be a ticket of the Marikeos for
the FREEBIES and DISCOUNTED services from
diferent department or ofces in the local govern-
ment.
Make it MARIKINA 13
Included in the Legislative Agenda for 2014 that
we will recommend in the Legislative are the fol-
lowing: Further empowerment of the Shoe Industry
together with the construction of the Shoe Trade
Center, investigation on buildings and facilities in
the whole city to ensure their structural integrity,
allocation of additional equipment and other help
to further strengthen the ability of our policemen,
and giving of incentives to the residents who will
give critical information in arresting the criminals
especially those who is involved in drugs.
According to Mayor Del De Guzman, this
2014, Marikina will continue to dream. We will
continue to pursue and we will continue to feel the
presence of the government for 24 hours. We will
continue the implementation of the 7K Program;
and we will also continue to give priority to educa-
tion, health, and economy.
14 Make it MARIKINA
From shoemaking
to baking
One can only admire the resiliency of Filipinos. Here in
Marikina, almost each and everyone has- in one way or anoth-
er- stood witness to the hardiness and adaptability of its citizens.
During the deterioration of the shoe industry way back then,
a woman by the name of Josephine Po, was one of the shoemak-
ers distressed by the declining popularity of Marikina-made
shoes. But rather sulking in the debris of her former business,
the strong-willed Marikenya stared failure in the eye, and, just
like a phoenix, rose from the ashes of the past and baked.
Yes. She baked.
Te shoemaker studied baking and became good at it that
later, she gave life to her masterpiece --- Perfect Moments.
Afer Josephines demise last 2013, her brother, Jose Po, man-
aged their business.
Perfect Moments boasts of cakes and pastries designed by
their artists, Jhen De Pedro and Kenneth Pasilio, which is then
adroitly crafed into existence by the hands of Sally Delos Reyes
--- an assurance that the quality of your wedding cake, childs
birthday cake or simple guilty pleasures are works of art.
Sally later studied culinary under Heny Sison to which she
later contributed her new acquired skill to the menu of Perfect
Moments. Apart from the delectable Red Velvet, Chocolate,
Carrot, Mandarin Orange, Smores, Sansrival, Fruity Carrot
and Blueberry Cheesecake cakes they serve, she added a touch
of Italy and Vietnam to the list through her brick-oven baked
pizza, Banh Mi sandwich and Vietnamese Cofee (Dont forget
about their Cookies on stick, Lollicakes, Russian Tea cook-
ies and their all-natural Raspberry juice!).
Perfect Moment makes your moment perfect.
Gibsons Shoe Factory Inc. is a 100% Filipino
owned shoe manufacturing company located in
Marikina City, the shoe capital of the Philip-
pines. Te company has a proud 67-year herit-
age of providing uniform footwear for the men
and women of the Armed Forces of the Philip-
pines and the Philippine National Police.
In the mid-1940s, Gibson was established and
founded by couple Gavino Cruz and Ramona
Salvador as a mere casual shoemaker. From the
production of casual shoes, Gibsons in the early
70s diversifed its operation to venture into the
feld of military shoemaking.
In 1974, the company was passed on to their
daughter Leonor Andres in Marikina City.
Te company was then renamed as Gibsons
Shoe Enterprises, which was accredited by the
Department of National Defense the following
year, 1975, as one of its suppliers of Goodyear
welted shoes and Direct Molded Soled (DMS)
combat boots. From the production of casual
shoes, Gibsons diversifed its operation to ven-
ture into the feld of military shoemaking.
To date, the company has 4 manufacturing
plants all situated in Marikina City Philippines.
It is by far the most technologically advanced
shoe manufacturer in uniform footwear in the
Philippines having cutting edge technology for
shoe making such as DESMA Direct Injec-
tion Sole Molding Machine from Germany (18
stations), RO-SEARCH Vulcanizing Machine
from USA, Electro-Hydra Lasting Machines
from Germany and Goodyear Welt Stitching
Machine from USA.
For more than 38 years already, Gibsons has
been a prime supplier to the Department of
National Defense and the Armed Forces of the
Philippines supplying MIL-
SPECS Tropical Combat Boots,
Hot Weather and Dress Shoes,
(Clarino) Hi-gloss.
Gibsons shoes, specifcally
combat boots and PU, hi-gloss
(clarion) dress shoes, is the foot-
gear of choice by the men and
women of the Philippine Army,
Philippine Air Force, Philippine
Navy, Philippine Marines, Philip-
pine National Police and the
cadets of the Philippine Military
Academy, Philippine Merchant
Marine Military Academy and
the Philippine National Police Academy. Te
company also supplies military footwear
products to other law enforcement and security
personnel, ROTC cadets and other AFP/PNP
uniform retailers.
Gibsons proudly enjoys being the most
recognized name in uniform footwear by the
Philippine Federation of Footwear Industries
and Gibsons proudly enjoys being the most
recognized name in uniform footwear by the
Philippine Federation of Footwear Industries.
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Once a year, every one is painting the town red. Restaurants, parks and
movie houses are being flled with people dating. Yes, people who used to give
fowers. chocolates, teddy bears are very rampant during the love month of
February.
But, have you tried doing the unusual during this season? Instead of dating
your boyfriend or girlfriend, go on a date with your family. Instead of painting
the walls red, lets make it more colorful by sharing beautiful smiles and greet-
ings to everyone a Happy Hearts Month. Instead of giving the usual stufs,
why dont you send cards with personal message saying how much you love
that special person. Its cheezy, right? And to make it more fun, why go on a
group date with your friends (especially when youre alone during this season)?
Its love month, loving yourself i think would be the best thing to do frst before
loving others.
Yes, Valentines Day may be meant to be celebrated by couples in love. But
you can always break that rule and still have fun. Valentines Day is celebrated
because love is always present. Aside from Christmas, this is the best time
to spread and show your love, not only to your special someone, but to your
parents, siblings, relatives and friends.
A piece of advice: Te cheapest way to show your love for someone is simply
by saying I love you.
Many people say that love is a complicated thing. It may be for Valentines
Day, Hearts Day, Cupids Day or whatever you want to call it, but whats impor-
tant is that the season of love wasnt really meant to be defned, it must be felt.
Love is all around!
Make it MARIKINA 15
Horse: Born in 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942,
1930, 1918
Te year of the horse means there is leadership asso-
ciated with this sign this year, so your authority may
increase, according to Ng. However, the impulsive be-
haviour of the horse can lead to recklessness, so stay
away from
gambling
and
speculations.
Rat: Born in 2008, 1996,
1984, 1972, 1960, 1948,
1936, 1924
Te rat is in opposition
this year, so this could
mean losing some mon-
ey this year. However,
the rat sign is generally
lucky, which can help
keep you out of trouble.
Tiger: Born in 2010,
1998, 1986, 1974, 1962,
1950, 1938, 1926
Tis should be a good
year for tigers, accord-
ing to Ng. It could
bring luck, joy, ro-
mance, spirituality and
learning opportunities.
Rabbit: Born 2011,
1999, 1987, 1975, 1963,
1951, 1939, 1927
Tis will be a year of ro-
mance and controversy,
with lots of happiness
everywhere for rabbits.
Just be careful about
your non-romantic re-
lationships with others.
Dragon: Born in 2012,
2000, 1988, 1976, 1964,
1952, 1940, 1928
Tis should be a good
year for dragons, as
horses and dragons to-
gether have great ener-
gy. Health and wealth
abound.
Snake: Born in 2013,
2001, 1989, 1977, 1965,
1953, 1941, 1929
Last year was a year of
confict for the snake,
says Ng, so this year is a
money year.
Ox: Born in 2009, 1997,
1985, 1973, 1961, 1949,
1937, 1925
Te ox is in confict
with the horse, which
could mean arguments
with other people this
year, says Ng. However,
the ox is a sign of au-
thority, potentially sig-
nifying promotions.
Dog: Born in 2006,
1994, 1982, 1970, 1958,
1946, 1934, 1922
Tis should be a lucky
year for dogs, notes Ng.
Everything from work
and investments to re-
lationships are on the
upswing.
Sheep or Goat: Born in
2003, 1991, 1979 ,1967,
1955, 1943, 1931, 1919
Tis is a connecting
year for you, says Ng.
Take advantage of your
good relationships with
other people, particu-
larly for male sheep.
Monkey: Born in 2004,
1992, 1980, 1968, 1956,
1944, 1932, 1920
Its important for the
monkey to spread them-
selves around in order
to gain success this year,
says Ng, either travelling
or moving.
Boar or Pig: Born in
2007, 1995, 1983, 1971,
1959, 1947, 1935, 1923
Get ready for a great
year, says Ng youll
make friends, have
breakthroughs in busi-
ness and be surrounded
by help. However, this all
will need some efort at
the beginning.
Rooster: Born in 2005,
1993, 1981, 1969, 1957,
1945, 1933, 1921
Tis is gearing up to be a
big year for roosters, ac-
cording to Ng. Tere are
many opportunities for
your work or business,
but your personal rela-
tionships might be vola-
tile. Rely on your friends
for help.