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Carlos Botong Francisco - The Evolution of Philippine Culture

The Evolution of Philippine Culture The story of The Evolution of Philippine Culture began in 1957 when the Fleur de Lis Auditorium at St. Paul University Manila was under construction. Jose L. Reynoso, the architect of the Fleur de Lis, asked his townmate, Carlos “Botong” Francisco, to paint a mural which he envisioned as the focal point of the auditorium’s lobby. The 3.5 meters by 4.5 meters mural was fitted between two pilasters and it is the first thing a theatergoer would see as they enter the foyer from the main portal. The theme, The Evolution of Philippine Culture, was carefully considered to complement the purpose of the Fleur de Lis, that is, to bring to the stage noteworthy musicals and concerts which have since earned the theater the name, “Broadway of Herran”. (Herran was the former name of Pedro Gil Street.) The central figure is that of a muscular Filipino who is intensely beating the drum. The sound is almost palpable. Above him is a Caucasian woman whose head is caugh...
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What’s new in Capiz?

La Casita Resort, Pawa I recently spent a few months in Capiz and found these lovely places which have one thing in common: ambiance. Whether its the style, the light, the cozy vibe, or the relaxed mood, these places offer a je ne sais quoi  charm that will make you smile. If you’re looking to disconnect from the humdrum of daily life or to get away from the incessant noise of modern day living, look no farther than La Casita in Pawa. Less than an hour from Roxas City yet miles away from the madding crowd, you’ll find peace and relaxation by the sea. With its enchanting thatched roof cottages and Hobbit style circular doors, you’re immediately transported to a different world. They also have tents if you prefer glamping on the seashore. Check out this link for more information about La Casita:  https://www.lacasitabeachresort.com/# La Casita Restaurant and Bar This temple of bamboo definitely gives tropical vibes as well as views of the casitas and koi pond. The restaurant ser...

Mtskheta, Georgia’s Ancient Capital

There are many good reasons why you must stop at Jvari Monastery before entering the city of  Mtskheta. Here are three. First, Jvari is where the female evangelist, St. Nino, planted a wooden cross on top of a pagan temple and started her mission to spread Christianity across Georgia. The rest is history. Secondly, you can’t get a better view of Mtskheta than from one of the balconies at Jvari. Lastly, you can see the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers, two bodies of water that have shaped the lives of the people in this region. Let’s go. Jvari Monastery is a sixth century monastery. It is also known as the Holy Cross Monastery after the cross St. Nino planted on this site.  Jvari holds remnants of that cross which is revered by pilgrims to this day. Together with Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Samtavro Monastery, it is a World Heritage site. Wooden cross, Jvari Monastery Beaneath this wooden cross are remnants of the original cross St. Nino planted on this site. St. Ni...

The Tbilisi Experience

Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba Cathedral) It's taken me a long time to write about Tbilisi. This city has so much going for it that it's hard to know where to begin. Tbilisi is a cosmopolitan city with deep historical roots that provide a nice contrast to its forward looking modern architectural structures. It was also the melting pot of various cultures over centuries. So where do I begin? The easiest way for me to give you, my reader, a taste of Tbilisi is to show you the places where our small tour group was taken. It was a full day tour so I got to see quite a bit of the city. Our first stop was at the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Hope of Georgia , Holy Trinity Cathedral  The Holy Trinity Cathedral is the seat of the Georgian Orthodox Church. It has a prominent position on Elia Hill in the Avlari district. It holds the distinction as the third tallest Orthodox church and one of the largest in the world. It was consecrated in 2004 after years of civil unrest in Georgia delayed it...