Storytelling session, K-Pop dance close Shark Conservation Week celebration

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A storytelling session and K-Pop random play dance were staged today in Manila City and Taguig City to officially close the 4th Shark Conservation Week celebration.

The Baby Shark Interactive Storytelling Session was attended by 30 children aged 9-12 in Museo Pambata in partnership with Kids4Kids. The activity was a learning exercise for children to learn about Philippine sharks and current conservation efforts.

In the afternoon, K-Pop Stans 4 Good Governance did a colorful and fun random play dance in partnership with Ayala Malls Market! Market! in Bonifacio Global City, where they danced to a continuous mix of K-Pop hits, including “Baby Shark” to entertain onlookers and at the same time, increase awareness about the importance of shark conservation.

“We organized the storytelling session and random dance play to engage a wider audience, especially children and youth, about the various threats to our marine life,” said Anna Oposa, Executive Director and Chief Mermaid of Save Philippine Seas.

The 4th Shark Conservation Week was observed to call for the passage of a legal framework that is science-based, enforceable, and socially just, taking into consideration the state of the marine environment and the communities that depend on these ecosystems.

Previous Shark Conservation Weeks were held in Cebu City, Cebu in 2014; Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental in 2016; and Panglao and Tagbilaran City, Bohol in 2018. One of the objectives of Shark Conservation Week is to build a constituency among various stakeholders, including line government agencies, legislators, the private sector, youth and academic institutions, fishers, traders, and other sectors such as tourism.

The Shark Conservation Week is organized by Save Shark Network Philippines through Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines, a conservation organization that aims to develop a better appreciation of the marine environment and its ecological processes.

Ala Eh Oz Goose National Championship: Talisay, Batangas holds largest One-Design Sailboat Regatta

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The Municipality of Talisay, Batangas hosted the largest one-design sailing regatta in the Philippines.

On February 25-26, The event, called the “Ala Eh! Oz Goose National Championships” was held on Taal Lake, fronting the province’s most popular sailing club, the Taal Lake Yacht Club (TLYC).

One design sailboat racing involves sailboats that are of the same design competing against each other in a series of races, ensuring that the competitors’ standings are purely because of skill and not the equipment.

The affordable Oz Goose sailboat attracts sailors across socio economic groups, from beginner to advanced, sailors with or without disabilities, men, women, kids and from regions throughout the Philippines -all racing together. And it keeps on growing and spreading throughout the country.

The Oz Goose Nationals, sailing clubs from around the country fielded teams, these are the Puerto Galera Yacht Club from Mindoro, Subic Sailing from Zambales, and Albay Yacht Club from Legazpi. Competed against them were the TLYC based regulars from Metro Manila, Rizal, Cavite, Laguna and Batangas. Sailability Philippines, the Philippine Paralympic sailing team also fielded several participants.

The Oz Goose sailboat was introduced in 2015 to the Philippines by boat building hobbyists of the Philippine Home Boatbuilders Yacht Club (PHBYC). It is designed as an easy to build sailboat using nothing more than marine plywood, lumber and locally sourced materials.

PHBYC executive director Roy Espiritu is enthusiastic of the Oz Goose’s potential to bring recreational boating to the Philippines.

“The Oz Goose sailboat sails really well and makes for an ideal platform to teach people the essential skills involved in sailing, from weather awareness to basic physics,” expressed Mr. Espiritu. “Racing sailboats is the best way to improve one's skill as a sailor, you have a clear objective that you need to complete efficiently, and have other sailors around you that you can learn from.”

Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas is optimistic of the regatta’s role in promoting the province as a water sports haven.

“Our province is becoming the Mecca for water sports enthusiasts from Metro Manila and Calabarzon, from canoe, kayak, and dragon boat paddlers, scuba and free divers and, of course, sailors on various forms of watercraft,” said Governor Mandanas. “I was told that the participants will also be treated to the rich flavors of Batangas, and the regatta organizers have gone all out to embrace the Batangas theme, that’s why Ala eh! is in the event name.”

Batangas Vice Governor Mark.Leviste also visited us on site to have dinner with us and expressed his admiration of the event saying the world-class sailing competition is fitting for such a world-class province like Batangas, and is keen on exploring on how to further grow and develop the opportunity to boost tourism in the province and encourage more people to discover and participate in both the boatbuilding and sailing experience.

True also that the sailors who competed on the races got to dine on many Batangas delicacies for their breakfast, snacks, lunch and dinner during the two day sailing competition. From Tamales to Bulalo, Lomi and a lot more dishes that Batangas is well known of were served to the sailors, organizers and everyone else including Wazzup Pilipinas and other media partners covering the event for their respective media outfits.

To date, more than 100 Oz Goose sailboats have been built all over the country. “Recreational sailing is often mistaken to be a rich person’s sport, but with boats that are easily built from local materials like the Oz Goose, one can have a sailboat for less than the price of a Mountain bike, production kayak or paddle board,” Mr. Espiritu added. “In a country with more than 7,000 islands and great sailing weather all year round, sailing is the best way to enjoy the country.”

The Ala Eh! Oz Goose Nationals would not have happened without the generous support of sponsors such as the Batangas Tourism Office, Pioneer Adhesives, Bara-Ko Coffee, Lakan Heritage Liquors and Broadwater Marine.

“It is great that the Province’s tourism industry is recovering well despite the two disasters that came one after the other; first was the Taal Volcano eruption in 2020, then the COVID-19 pandemic,” exclaimed TLYC Commodore Peter Capotosto. “Corporate sponsorships allow organizers like us and PHBYC to go all out to make sure all the participants enjoy a great regatta, and in turn, they bring in more of their friends to enjoy sailing on Taal Lake.”

We would like to thank the organizers of the Ala Eh Oz Goose National Championshi for inviting Wazzup Pilipinas as one of their media partners, and hope to see them again on the next runs.

The Best Cities to Visit in Germany

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Germany is a country filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. It has plenty of cities that are perfect for tourists who want to experience all that the country has to offer. From the massive city of Berlin to the quaint town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany has a lot to offer. Here are the best cities to visit in Germany, so that you can plan your next trip with ease.

Berlin

As the capital city of Germany, Berlin is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers visitors a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. Some of the top things to see in Berlin include the Brandenburg Gate, which is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, as well as the Berlin Wall, which is a reminder of the city's tumultuous past. You can see the city's many museums, such as the Pergamon Museum and the Jewish Museum.

 
Hamburg

Hamburg is a vibrant port city located in northern Germany that offers visitors a wide range of attractions and activities. One of the top things to do in Hamburg is to take a stroll along the Elbe river, which offers stunning views of the city's skyline and harbor. Make sure you do not miss the Miniatur Wunderland, which is the largest model railway in the world or visit the Museum of Hamburg History to learn more about the city's fascinating past. Other popular attractions in Hamburg include the St. Michaelis Church and the Hamburg Fish Market.

 
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a picturesque city located in the southwest of Germany. Visitors can take a stroll through the historic streets of the Old Town, which are lined with beautiful buildings and quaint shops. The Heidelberg Castle is also a must-see attraction, as it offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. In addition, visitors can take a boat ride on the Neckar River or visit Heidelberg University, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Germany.

Cologne

Cologne is a beautiful city located in the west of Germany with a cathedral and vibrant cultural scene. The Cologne Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit the Old Town or the Museum Ludwig, which houses one of the largest collections of modern art in Europe. In addition, visitors can take a boat tour of the Rhine River or visit one of the many festivals and events that take place in Cologne throughout the year.

Munich

Munich is located in the southern part of Germany and is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and lively beer culture. One of the top attractions in Munich is the Marienplatz, which is the central square and is surrounded by beautiful buildings and historical landmarks. You can check out the Nymphenburg Palace and its stunning gardens, or take a trip to the Deutsches Museum, which is one of the largest science museums in the world. Of course, no visit to Munich would be complete without a visit to one of its famous beer gardens or the annual Oktoberfest celebration. That is why you could look into informative Munich city tours that will help you see all of these things - and more!

Dresden

Dresden is a beautiful city located in the east of Germany that is full of architecture, museums, and art galleries. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, which was heavily damaged during World War II but has since been restored to its former glory. The Frauenkirche is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is a testament to the city's resilience and determination. Visitors can also take a trip to the nearby Saxon Switzerland National Park, which offers stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.

 
Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a modern and bustling city located in the center of Germany that is known for its vibrant business district, a stunning skyline, and cultural attractions. One of the top things to do in Frankfurt is to visit the Museum District, which is home to a number of world-class museums, such as the Städel Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, and the German Film Museum. Visitors can also take a stroll through the Old Town, full of beautiful buildings and charming cafes. In addition, Frankfurt is known for its culinary scene, with numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and local specialties such as sausages and apple wine.

Stuttgart

Stuttgart is a city located in the southwest of Germany that is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, historic landmarks, and thriving cultural scene. Visitors can explore the beautiful Palace Square, which is home to the stunning New Palace, or take a trip to the Mercedes-Benz Museum to learn more about the history of the iconic car brand. Other popular attractions in Stuttgart include the Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden, which is one of the largest zoos in Europe, and the State Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of art from the 14th century to the present day.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a city located in the east of Germany that is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks, and beautiful parks. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, which is home to the famous St. Thomas Church, where Johann Sebastian Bach worked as a music director. Visitors can also take a stroll through the beautiful Leipzig Botanical Garden, which features a variety of exotic plants and flowers, or visit the Museum of Fine Arts, which houses an impressive collection of art from the 15th century to the present day. Leipzig is also known for its vibrant music scene, with numerous music festivals and concerts taking place throughout the year.

Germany is a country that is full of fascinating cities and attractions that are sure to appeal to visitors from all over the world. There is no shortage of places to explore and discover in Germany. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country.

Author bio:

Diana Smith is a full time mom of two beautiful girls and a passionate traveller always interested in exploring new destinations. In her free time she enjoys long walks in the woods, hard exercising and preparing healthy meals for her family.