LOVE!

Undying
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JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2014
Paul Edward P. Sison
James Paul C. Agulay
Maria Lourdes Navarro
Christopher P. Papagayo
Adelson Genito
Carmela Salazar
Ragie Mary Dolatre
Rhyan Quilapio
Marjun Fadriquela
Randie Esteves
Armand Solacito
Salvador A. Narra
Gilbert Lobis
Atty. Florella Almarez
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 Jacamar Flower Shops
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 Gil Fernando Avenue:
One main Artery of marikina City
10 State of the City Address:
Thinking big, accomplishing
continuous progress
14 Pefect moments:
From shoemaking to baking
15 Gibson Shoes:
Tougher than the usual
Love is all around
16 Marikina joins the celebration
of Chinese New Year
editors note
message
My heartiest greetings as we welcome
our traditional New Year 2014 and celebrate
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 compassion.
Te momentum has been set when afer
a series of calamities hit the country, a gen-
erous outpouring of sympathy, empathy and
care ensued. Tere was a collective efort to
reach out to victims whose lives were practi-
cally 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 meaningful way.
Te city sent no less than three waves of
support to the victims of the earthquake in Bohol and of supertyphoon Yolanda. Te dev-
astation was massive and almost unimaginable but they remained undaunted and deter-
mined more than ever, to rise up, pick up the pieces and reclaim 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 fortune 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 vigilant 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.
Undying Love. Tis is what Mayor Del shares
with his dearly beloved wife, Amy.
It truly is heart-breaking for our mayor to lose
his wife at a very young age. He describes her as
one who is very hands-on when it come to their
family, Shes the one who handles everything
at home. She is very doting and tireless when it
comes to caring for each of our children.
While Mayor Del lost a very selfess partner
and First Lady, Marikina has lost its mother.
Every one who has lost a mother knows how
painful it is to be deprived of a mothers love and
care. We will sorely miss and fondly remember
Amalia G. De Guzman.
Let us be comforted by the thought that Amy
is now with our loving Father and Creator -- pray-
ing for us ... rooting for us. May her soul rest in
peace.
May the undying love Mayor Del shared with
Amy propel him to greater heights as he leads us
through the challenges that face our city this 2014.
Our kind mayor has always been there for us.
Let us now be there for him at a time when he
needs us most.
PAUL EDWARD SISON
Make it MARIKINA 3
Te little mischievous matchmaker has been busy lurking just
around the corner, aiming his love arrows to his next unsuspecting vic-
tim. 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
loveor probably just infatuated. Nevertheless, it feels like a mix of dif-
ferent 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, how you nur-
ture 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 or-
der for things to work out -thoughts of wisdomgained fromconversing
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 on the sidewalks of Marikina. During the termof former mayor
Bayani Fernando, they were invited to relocate to stalls provided for
them to which, until today, are still located. Tey have expressed their
appreciation towards this deed.
Te qualities of the fowers they sell are at par with those sold at
major fower distributors fromother 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, in Brgy. Sta. Elena.
Stretch of Jacamar Flower Shops
Gerbera
Florists Stargazer
Red Roses
Jacamar
Flower Shops
Stop and smell t owers
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 Cecilia De Guz-
man Sanchez during 1997, now serves a
wide assortment of cuisines fromtheir eat/
drink-all-you-can bufet which happens
every Tuesday to Sunday, 11 a.m. 2 a.m.
for lunch, and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. for dinner.
Cecilia, a single parent to three children
and 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 famished people
and companies to seek for her culinary
skills. Her success gave birth to La Isla
Bufet Restaurant, which opened in Sep-
tember 2012. Later on, her daughter, the
eldest of the three siblings, Crenz Lagpa-
can, would step up and follow in her foot-
steps.
Crenz, like her mom, loves to cook. She
took up HRM in college and embarked to
Ziu Hua in China for her on-the-job train-
ing. 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 do-
ing a pretty good job.
But enough now of our two lovely la-
dies. 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
Fish Fillet, 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, Cofee Jelly and the (mmmm!)
Turones. For our vegetarian bufet hunters,
a salad bar that serves Vegetable and Mac-
aroni salad is waiting for you while bot-
tomless iced tea is available for the thirsty.
The perfect island for buffet hunters
Kare-kare
Fish with Tofu and Black beans
Seafood Mixed
Ribbon cutting with
Mayor Del and Crenz
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 restau-
rant 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 enchant-
ing experience with their meals with their
favorsome cakes, to which Bellinis is also
known for. Munch on their Orange cake,
Obama cake and their sons creation, the
Magma cake --- all worthy to be included in
your wanted list.
Make it MARIKINA 5
Ma. Luisa Bellini ( Owner & Chef)
Gnocchi Tartufo Funghi con Proscuito Ala Ma. Luisa
Rostincciana; Pollo Ala Diavola; Arrosto di Maiale
Mare Manna Pizza
Risotto Guansetto
6 Make it MARIKINA Make it MARIKINA 5
Lifestyle Marikina
A citys art refects its culture. A citys
culture refects its lifestyle. A citys life-
style refects its citizen and government.
Tese are some realizations that came
to mind during an interview with City
Councilor Xy-za Diazen, the citys Cul-
ture and Arts Committee chairman.
Te natural ingenuity of Marikinas
citizens has been her inspiration to pur-
sue and formulate plans that recognize
the identity of our designers/artists and
encourage the creative personality of the
city through activities and events and
enacting ordinances that will cultivate
Marikinas culture and arts furthermore.
All throughout our conversation, the
councilor couldnt help but express how
proud she is of her fellow Marikenyos
and how serious she is about further
nurturing our Culture and Art scenes.
And who wouldnt be?
Marikina has produced numerous
artists and celebrities. Fernando Josef,
Angel Aquino, Bing Imao, Jericho Ro-
sales, Bryan Tenorio just to name a few
of the citys prominent names. In the
same manner as how a childs accom-
MakeitMarikina:
7THCITY COUNCIL OF MARIKINA
Efective January 7, 2014
Presiding Ofcer: Vice Mayor JOSE FABIANI. CADIZ, M.D.
President Pro-Tempore: Coun. MARK ALBERT J. DEL ROSARIO
Floor Leader: Coun. EVA AGUIRRE-PAZ
Asst. Floor Leader: Coun. THADDEUS ANTONIOM. SANTOS, JR.
CHAIRPERSONS of the STANDINGCOMMITTEES
APPROPRIATION
Coun. MARK ALBERT J. DEL ROSARIO
BARANGAY AFFAIRS
Coun. LEVY D.L. DE GUZMAN
COOPERATIVES
Coun. RUBENR. REYES
COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Coun. JOSEPHB. BANZON
CULTURE AND ARTS
Coun. XY-ZA R. DIAZEN
DANGEROUS DRUGS
Coun. FRANKIE C. AYUSON
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS, MITIGATION AND MANAGEMENT
Coun. XY-ZA R. DIAZEN
EDUCATION
Coun. EVA AGUIRRE-PAZ
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Coun. SAMUEL S. FERRIOL
FOOTWEAR & LEATHERCRAFT INDUSTRY
Coun. MARIOM. DE LEON
GAMES & AMUSEMENTS
Coun. RONNIE S. ACUA
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS, ETHICS & ACCOUNTABILITIES
Coun. MARIO. DE LEON
HEALTH & SANITION
Coun. SUSANA P. MAGTUBO
HOUSING, ZONING, URBAN PLANNING
& COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Coun. RONNIE S. ACUA
HUMAN RIGHTS & JUSTICE
Coun. PAUL B. DAYAO
INFRASTRUCTURE
Coun. ERNESTOM. FLORES
LABOR AND CAPITAL RELATIONS
Coun. MARK ALBERT J. DEL ROSARIO
PARKS DEVELOPMENT
Coun. JOSEPHB. BANZON
PEACE & ORDER, PUBLIC SAFETY AND SECURITY
Coun. FRANKIE C. AYUSON
PEOPLES PARTICIPATION
Coun. SUSANA P. MAGTUBO
RULES AND CODIFICATION OF RULES
Coun. EVA AGUIRRE-PAZ
SENIOR CITIZENS & PERSONS WITH DISABILITY AFFAIRS
Coun. THADDEUS ANTONIOM. SANTOS, JR.
TOURISM
Coun. WILLIE N. CHAVEZ
TRADE, COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
Coun. ARIEL V. CUARESMA
TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC
Coun. ERNESTOM. FLORES
WAYS AND MEANS
Coun. THADDEUS ANTONIOM. SANTOS, JR.
WOMEN AND FAMILY AFFAIRS
Coun. PAUL B. DAYAO
YOUTH AND SPORTS DEVELOPMENT
Coun. FRANKIE C. AYUSON
COUNCILORS
push it through!
Coun. Xy-za R. Diazen
Coun. Ariel V. Cuaresma
plishment 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.
Marikina Trade, Commerce and In-
dustry
Reasonably priced meat products,
quality shoes, hardworking citizens
and a special business zone.
Marikina has indeed emerged as
one of the top cities to invest in.
Tis was pointed out by the very
accommodating councilor and au-
thor of City Ordinance no. 62 (declar-
ing Gil Fernando as a Special Com-
mercial, Business, Entertainment and
Amusement Zone of Marikina City),
Ariel Cuaresma, who is also Mariki-
nas Trade, Commerce and Industry
chairman.
Te councilors dream of having a
business summit is a very good op-
portunity for sister cities to exhibit
their goods, exchange ideas or trade
products. Te citys trademark of
cleanliness and discipline, Peace and
Order, and the generous tax discount
the city ofers are but a few reasons
why Marikina is an excellent place
to engage in trade, commerce and
industry.
Te trafc, as crowded as it may
seem, fows continuously. Tanks to
the hardworking CTMDO, Barangay
Ofcials, MMDA, disciplined citizens
and courteous drivers. Marikina is
also one of the few cities where cross-
ing lanes for pedestrian and loading
and unloading areas are given due
respect. Te number-coding scheme
is also not implemented here in the
eastern fringes of the metropolis.
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 fromOlongapo-turned-Marikenyo, is
now bringing honor not just to his family, but to Marikina and the
Philippines 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 dreamof a vacation in Bo-
racay, you wouldnt expect that this person is THE South East Asian
Games gold medalist in Judo. Perhaps it 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 themasked 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 second week of September 2014.
But there is more to Judo than the honor it has brought himand the country. It actu-
ally served as a bridge for the happy ever afer of the love story between himand his
then-crush-now-turned-Mrs. Ramirez, Nikky (thanks to their friend and text messag-
ing). Te couple now has a six year-old son, Amiel John (a photocopy if his father by
the way), who, at his young age, is also a medalist in Judo. Also, Gilbert 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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Other side of a
Judo champion
2013 27th Southeast Asian Games Judo
Championship - 1st Place-Myanmar
Pre- Southeast Asian Games Judo
Championship - 1st Place - Myanmar
2011 26th Southeast Asian Games
3rd Place - Palembang, Indonesia
Participant - Abu Dhabi
2009 25th Southeast Asian Games
3rd Place - Vientienne, Laos
2008 Philippine International Brazilian
Jiu Jitsu Open - 1st Place- Manila
Asian Judo Championships
Participant - Jeju, Korea
2007 24th Southeast Asian Games
5th Place - Ratchasima, Tailand
Tailand International Judo Championship
2nd Place- Tailand
2006 15th Asian Games - Participant- Doha Qatar
15th VietnamInternational Judo Championship
2nd Place - Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Tailand International Judo Championship
5th Place - Chantabury, Tailand
2005 23rd Southeast Asian Games
1st Place - Mandaue, Cebu City, Philippines
Asian Judo Championships - 7th Place
Philippine International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Open
1st Place - Manila
2004 Korea Open Judo Championship
Participant - Jeju City, South Korea
2003 22nd Southeast Asian Games
1st Place - Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Be sure to visit the wide variety of hidey-holes this avenue has to ofer.
Several banks, restaurants, gas stations and automotive shops can also be
found here. In the evening, Gil Fernando transforms from an ideal family
bonding destination into the ultimate venue for gimmicks, dates and chill-
out spots in Marikina as the series of bars and restaurants gears up for the
nightlife.
You can cruise 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, fam-
ily, companion or self can hangout.
Its next main intersection is Sumulong
Highway where you will fnd Bluewave Mar-
quinton 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
Highway 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 Engi-
neering Ofces, and streets heading towards
Paliparan, Concepcion Uno and Concepcion
Dos and several neighborhoods such as
Goodrich Village and Oro Vista Subdivision.
In Sumulong Highway you will fnd
Bluewave Marquinton. 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 Montalban.
Recently, the Fairview-Cainta jeep route also
passes through Gil Fernando heading to the
Batasan Road in San Mateo.
Photo was taken over the footbridge along Marcos Hiway
HAPAG KAINAN SA MARIKINA
645-3630/645-5460
TAPSI NI VIVIAN AT BULALOHAN
645-0125
tapsinivivian1984@gmail.com

PAPAJEKS MARIKINA
681-8755
WOLLY WINKLE
www.facebook.com/WollyWinkle
TAMAMANGS
RESTAURANT 6451554
BACOLOD Chk-n-BBQ HOUSE
948-5326/490-7777
OLOS TOUCHCAFE
#6 G. Fernando, Sto. Nio,
696-9028
ZEN TEA
Unit 12 Cordova Tower
Marquinton
ALEXEIS DINER & CAFE
9014674
OKU WELLNESS & CAFE
near Landmark Bank
TAPSILOGAN VENUE
387-9626
CRISTYS PANCITAN
+6324701976
AUNTIES BAKESHOP
645 354
TEAS UP
Gil Fernando Avenue,
San Roque
BITE BREW IN THE EVENING
682-8603
PLANET PIZZA
703-4908 / 9193716
QUINA PASTRY SHOP
37 Dragon St., Midtown Subd.
401 2829
TIYOS CUISINE
29 Almond Nut St.
646 0576
CALIS Grill & Bistro
G. Fernando Ave., San Roque
09178432198
MANGYAN REPUBLIC
0920 388 0782
KAF CASUAL DINING
#12 Redwood St.
369-6454
BEACHHOUSE BAR & GRILL
0932 385 0014
CAFENIU
# 47 Dragon St. cor. Gil Fernando
(At the Back of BDO Gil Fernando)
HAP CHAN RESTAURANT
477-5955
BEEFALO
0920 388 0782
Specially designated for businesses, commercial use, en-
tertainment and amusement, Gil Fernando Avenue is one of
the top places to visit in Marikina.
This one of the major thoroughfares in Marikina
was formerly known as Angel Tuazon St., Gil
Fernando Avenues complete name is Mayor Gil
Fernando Avenue. The avenue starts at Marcos
Highway leading in to the heart of the city. The
avenue was named after Gil Fernando, former
mayor of Marikina City and father of the former
mayor Bayani Fernando.
MARIKINACATHOLICSCHOOL
CRESTOTRADINGCORP.
CITYCARMARIKINAINC.
TIMEFOREIGNTRADE
INTERIORPLAZA
POTOFGOLDDISCO
STARPALACESUPERCLUB
SILVERSTONEGARDEN
SUNRISEPOKER
STIVDISCO&KTV
INTEGRATEDSCHOOL
FORYOUNGCHILDREN
SANSESGARDEN
Others
TUTTI FRUTTI
655-8801
SSS-MARIKINA
645-7667
681-6261
645-4070
2F WRCC Bldg
G. Fernando Ave.
234-0996
703-2090
CHERRY MOBILE
SERVICE CENTER
G. Fernando Ave.
(beside Landbank)
0922 882 2786
SPORTS
YARD
HOLCIM
645-6028
MANILA
DOCTORS
661-6869
369-3976
Make it MARIKINA 9
One main artery
of Marikina City
Gil Fernando Avenue
Wellness
Auto Shops
Banks
SKYHIGHFITNESS
682 8943
KUTIS FILIPINA, INC.
0917 503 8784
ZU FOOT & BODY SPA
+639328702810
+632676942
Maryland 1 Bldg.
G. Fernando Ave. cor
Estrador St.
POSHNAILS
2/F Maryland One Bldg.
399-5550 550202
NUAT THAI FOOT
& BODY MASSAGE
377-5623
2/F G. FERNANDO
AVE. MARIKINA
CITY
HANS SPA
400-9509
HONDA
Units 3 & 4,
Marikina
East Center
MG SQUARE
382-5635
RAPIDE
933-1564
YOKOHAMA
647-5561, 470-1688
369-6636
REPAIR SERVICE
647-5561, 470-1688
369-6636
MICKEY
CAR AIRCONDITION
682 2632
CUSTOMCONNECTION
Lot 2A G. Fernando Ave.
796-4815
M.S.E. AUTODETAILING
OLOSTOUCHAUTO
DETAILING
XTREMEAUTOCENTER
JOLETJAO
K92AUTOREFINISH
CITYCARMARIKINAINC.
AUTOHUB, INC.
RAEELECTRICAL SHOP
G. Fernando Ave.
Tel: 645-9809
BANTUGCARAIRCON
G. Fernando Ave.
668-2282/645-1857
645-4719
369-6878
MAC-7
AUTOSERVICE
Mayor Del De Guzman delivered his State of
the City Address on 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 Gov-
ernance, Marikina has successfully launched the
citywide and barangay level validation of the
results of Community-Based Monitoring Sys-
tem (CBMS). Tis produced for the frst time
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 on the services of the city government
serves as proof of our serious delivery of trans-
parent and client-friendly services. Te 50% dis-
count on real property tax enabled to produce
enough funds for the Special Education 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 Improve-
ment Program under the Total Quality Manage-
ment in Basic Education Project of the Depart-
ment of Education.
In the feld of Social Services, the City Social
Welfare and Development Ofce has recorded
7,332 benefciaries in the Pantawid Pamilya Pili-
pino Program (4Ps) with the assistance 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 given to the city being one of the
four LGUs of Metro Manila that was given a
Good Housekeeping Seal by DILG. Te city also
distributed a total of 3,925 PhilHealth ID and
Membership Data Record (MDR).
In the feld 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. Te city complet-
ed the replacement of lights in our public market
from sodium lights to high efciently LED lights.
Te LRPESO listed a total of 5,115 registered
applicants on the previously held quarterly job
fairs. Records show that BPLO has listed 2, 313
new businesses registered, 13, 201 renewed while
649 were already closed. Tis is a proof that we
encouraged additional investors. Te Gross Rev-
enue Collection in the year 2013 reached 1. 743
billion, this is again despite of the 50% reduction
In the feld of Peace, Order and Security, 100 CCTV cameras
were installed on strategic places of the city together with the
creation of one state-of the-art Command Center in Marikina
City Health Ofces 2nd foor that will be fully operational this
year. Te Text Blast Equipment is also 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 were made togeth-
er 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.
10 Make it MARIKINA Make it MARIKINA 11
THINKING BIG, ACCOMPLISHING CONTINUOUS PROGRESS
Te successful launching of the Cityhood Fun Ride
thatwas witnessed by 750 bicycle enthusiasts
Mayor Del, while reporting his accomplished services
for the year 2013 in front of the Marikina citizens
Te inaugurated CICL Building
Te renovated
Marikina-Brampton
Friendship Park
Launching the citywide and barangay level validation
of the results of Community-Based Monitoring System(CBMS)
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 led by the General Services Ofce. Tis Ser-
bisyo Coupon will be a ticket for Marikeos have
the FREEBIES and DISCOUNTED services from
diferent department or ofces in the local govern-
ment.
In the feld of Pagawaing-Bayan, pumping
stations at Green Street, Concepcion and at Riv-
erside Drive in Provident Village are already for
operational. Tis is a big help on preventing high
water level during heavy rainfall on the said plac-
es. Te Phase I of the new Legislative Building
was already fnished. Te construction of the new
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina that has
6 foors and 72 classrooms was already started.
New engineering equipment like long-arm back-
hoe, 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% reduction 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. Tis is historical on its aim to give
access to the Councilors on the legislative docu-
ments 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 implementa-
tion 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 Insur-
ance.
12 Make it MARIKINA 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.
Te on-going construction of Balubad Health Center
and Lying-in Clinic
Mayor Del inspected the on-going construction
of Concepcion creek
Te new Timbangan ng Bayan is tested and
inspected by the three heads of Marikina City
Participants are excited to run while waiting for the
go signal for Tour de Takong (stiletto race)
Digital trafc lights are installed
around the city to prevent boredom
among motorists
Te fnal touch construction of PLMAR Building
Vice- Mayor Cadiz, opened the regular
weekly session
DEL League 2013 made Marikina Sports Center basketball
gymjampacked with basketball enthusiasts
Inauguration of new PLMAR Building Phase I
14 Make it MARIKINA
From shoemaking
to baking
Gibsons Shoe Factory Inc. is a 100% Fili-
pino owned shoe manufacturing company
located in Marikina City, the shoe capital of the
Philippines. Te company has a proud 67-year
heritage of providing uniform footwear for the
men and women of the Armed Forces of the
Philippines 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 four 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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One can only admire the resiliency of Filipinos. Here in
Marikina, almost each and everyone has, in one way or another,
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 in 2013, her brother, Jose Po, man-
aged their business.
Perfect Moments boasts 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 with 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.
Once a year, everyone 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 generous 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 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 fromChristmas, 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.
Source: http://www.hufngtonpost.ca
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.