Our Philippines.

Number 3?!

2009-03-23T22:40:00.002+08:00

On my our last blog post, we reported how unacceptable being 2nd was in the rankings. A few days later we see our beloved underground river as 1st place again...then the Amazon...then us again. I didn't blog about it since it was a neck to neck race. BUT! Suddenly out of the blue, the Manovo-Gounda St. Floris now number 1 in our category. It was a total shocker. From rank 31 to number 1? woah. We need to get voting! However, though it has covered A LOT of ground. The candidate does not have an OSC (official supporting committee) which is a requirement to be in the final 21.

On another note, the Coral Triangle is now ranked at 6th place.

Number Two

2009-02-25T12:54:00.002+08:00

Will we settle for number 2?
Sad news really. As of Feb. 23 '09, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River has been over taken by the Amazon.
What's to say?
I know, I know. The Amazon is world known and an icon, blah blah blah. But aren't we too? Isn't this supposed to be our time? Sure, it's rankings you say, but rankings say a lot, and God knows how they'll affect the selection of the top 21?
So what are you waiting for? Campaign! Vote!

See Rankings here.

New Rankings for round 2!

2009-01-28T18:13:00.001+08:00

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Philippines—The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park on Tuesday topped the live ranking in the category of forests, national parks and nature reserves in the ongoing global search for the new seven wonders of the world.

Occupying 2nd and 3rd place in the live ranking were the Amazon rainforest (Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, etc) and the Sundarbans delta (Bangladesh/India), respectively.

Buoyed by a successful campaign last year that catapulted the underground river to the top spot among entries that made the cut into the second round of voting, the city government has set its sights on a massive local and international campaign to draw votes for the famed local attraction.

It has scheduled a campaign launching activity on Saturday that would be attended by ranking cabinet officials and various support organizations.

“We are stepping up our campaign by tapping into the vast network of supporters, nationally and globally, who have visited the underground river. We’ve done it before and we will do it again,” said Mayor Edward Hagedorn.

The organizer, the New7Wonders foundation, was founded by Swiss-Canadian aviator Bernard Weber. There are 261 nominees in seven categories, namely, landscapes and ice formations; islands; mountains and volcanoes; caves, rock formations and valleys; forests, national parks and nature reserves; lakes, rivers and waterfalls; and seascapes.

Log on to www.new7wonders.com to vote and for more information.

On January 1 this year, the first stage or the national qualification ended. Online voting has entered the second stage for the nomination. Online voting for nominees will continue through July 7.

A panel of experts, under the leadership of Federico Mayor, former Unesco director-general, will review the top 77 nominees and choose the 21 finalists to be announced on July 21. Redempto Anda, Inquirer Southern Luzon

______________________________________________________________

Also, The CORAL TRIANGLE is now 3rd in group G: seascapes. :)

How's our chances?

2009-01-18T13:41:00.001+08:00

Now that we've got out sites set on the next stage coming this July. Let's see the criteria on how they'll choose the 21 finalists.

1. Unique beauty of the nominated site;

2. Diversity and distribution (accounted for in 7 groups);

3. Ecological significance (in terms of either stand-alone eco-systems and/or their significance for human beings);

4. Historical legacy (relation that human beings and/or indigenous populations have or have had with the site);

5. Geo-location (even distribution of the 21 Official Finalists between all continents).

DO YOU THINK WE'LL MAKE THE CUT?
FINGERS CROSSED.

leave a comment. :)

Underground river in New7Wonders semis

2009-01-07T16:48:00.000+08:00

By Redempto Anda
Southern Luzon Bureau
First Posted 14:40:00 01/07/2009

Filed Under: Tourism, Monuments & Heritage Sites, Internet

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY -- The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, one of the country's top natural attractions and recognized as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations, was announced Wednesday as the Philippine's winning entry to the second and final round of an ongoing global search for the seven new wonders of the world.

In the search being spearheaded by a Zurich-based international organization, the underground river bested six other local natural attractions in 2008's internet-based voting campaign.

The Coral Triangle region, shared between the Philippines and five other countries and representing majority of the world's corals and marine-based species, also made the cut of 226 sites from among the original 441 entries from various countries that took part in the 2008’s initial stage of voting.

"We congratulate the successful qualifying locations from the Philippines and wish them the best of luck in the second phase of voting," said Tia Vering, head of communications for the Zurich, Switzerland-based New7Wonders, in a statement.

She noted the strong and enthusiastic participation of the other national nominees that were not proceeding, many of whom already benefited from a significant increase in worldwide awareness.

READ FULL STORY HERE!

New Candidate? Coral Triangle?

2009-01-07T16:22:00.004+08:00

As we were checking the various candidates that made it in the next round, boy, were we surprised to see ANOTHER candidate from the Philippines...well not completely. You see we share it with other ASEAN neighobors. I wonder how this will affect the Philippines in n7w. Right now, it has NO supporting committee.

Coral Triangle

INDONESIA/ MALAYSIA/ PAPUA NEW GUINEA/ PHILIPPINES/ SOLOMON ISLANDS/ TIMOR-LESTE

The Coral Triangle is a geographical term referring to the waters of Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste with an abundance of coral reef. It is listed by World Wildlife Fund as one of the top priority for conservancy of marine life and the focus of its WWF Coral Triangle Program launched in 2007. The Coral Triangle has been identified as covering more than 1,600,000,000 acres (6,500,000 km2), with over 600 reef-building coral species which encompasses 75 percent of all species known in the world. More than 3,000 species of fish live in the Coral Triangle, including the largest fish - the whale shark, and the living fossil coelacanths.

Clearing things up,

2009-01-07T16:15:00.001+08:00

okay. you may be a little confused by the events that just occurred. Let's clear things up and check the FAQ.

There are three stages in the New7Wonders of Nature campaign: the National Qualification, the Nomination stage and the Finalist stage:

On 1 January 2009, only one national nominee per country will be allowed to proceed: the highest ranked in the voting on 31 December 2008. Therefore until the end of 2008, countries with more than one nominee will be racing to choose the national representative that is allowed to continue into 2009. Nominees shared by more than one country will remain and continue into 2009.<----CHECK
In the Nomination stage, voting for nominees will continue through July 7, 2009. Then the New7Wonders of Nature Panel of Experts, under the leadership of Prof. Federico Mayor, former Director-General of UNESCO, will review the top 77 nominees and choose the 21 finalists, to be announced on 21 July 2009.
For the Finalist stage, the 21 New7Wonders of Nature Finalists will be put to popular vote in July 2009. Voting will continue throughout 2010 and into 2011. During this time, the New7Wonders World Tour will visit each of the Finalists to allow them to present themselves to the voters across the globe.

The final declaration of the New7Wonders of Nature will be in 2011.

JULY 7 is the set date!

2009-01-06T22:41:00.000+08:00

We're Back!!!

2009-01-06T21:58:00.006+08:00

Okay. So we know we haven't been posting for...forever. And that's because of some legal issues. Don't ask. It's complicated! But guess what? We're right in time to hop on board again!

As most of you loyal N7W followers know, by tomorrow, January 7, 2009, N7w will be releasing the finalists that will move into the next round! Only those with a supporting committee will move on.

Finally we can leave behind some candidates and move on. The competition now gets tougher!

-------

Also as we know, there was that certain rule dictating that only ONE candidate per country, and that candidate, if ever one makes it in, will be the HIGHEST RANKING one.
So that is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park! It has been keeping the number ONE spot for months!

Also if you haven't heard, we have had more tourists come to our various candidates last 2008!
If/When we get in we have to go full throtle with this!

But as we all know, it's too early to call. So let's wait. Only hours to go. :)

----

Rank Location
1 Puerto Princesa Subterranean River
3 Tubbataha Reef
5 Chocolate Hills
12 Mayon Volcano
27 Hundred Islands National Park
28 Mount Pinatubo
86 Taal Volcano

not bad!

New Candidate Widgets

2008-10-13T00:53:00.001+08:00

3 new candidates!

2008-10-12T15:05:00.003+08:00

Talk about news just around the corner!
WE HAVE 3 NEW CANDIDATES!!
ok. Things we need: VOTES,AN OFFICIAL OFFICIAL COMMITTEE and SPREAD THE NEWS!

Taal Volcano

PHILIPPINES

Taal Volcano is an active volcano on the island of Luzon in the Philippines. It is situated between the towns of Talisay and San Nicolas in Batangas. It consists of an island in Lake Taal, which is itself within a caldera formed by an earlier, very powerful eruption. It is located about 50 km from Manila. A small island, Vulcan Point, in Taal Volcano also has the distinction of being home to the "largest island in a lake on an island in a lake on an island."

Hundred Islands National Park

PHILIPPINES

The Hundred Islands National Park is in the province of Pangasinan in northern Philippines. It is located in Alaminos City, Pangasinan. The islands are scattered along Lingayen Gulf and cover an area of 18.44 square km. They are believed to be some two million years old. Only three of them have been developed: Governor Island, Quezon Island, and Children's Island.

Mount Pinatubo

PHILIPPINES

Mount Pinatubo is an active stratovolcano located on the island of Luzon in the Philippines, at the intersection of the borders of the provinces of Zambales, Tarlac, and Pampanga. Pinatubo's original structure was made of andesite and dacite. The volcano's eruption in June 1991 produced the second largest terrestrial eruption of the 20th century and its effects were felt around the world. It ejected roughly 10 billion metric tons of magma, and 20 million tons of SO2, bringing vast quantities of minerals and metals to the surface environment. It injected large amounts of aerosols into the stratosphere—more than any eruption since that of Krakatoa in 1883.

Patience.

2008-10-12T15:01:00.002+08:00

I know we haven't been blogging for quite some time now, and believe us it's something that frustrates us too. It's not that easy looking for things to blog without sounding redundant,especially on this topic. It's not as if things are happening every single day. So please be patient. No need to throw us an angry email. Thank you.

2009 is near and maybe then there'll be more to blog about. :)
News is just around the corner.

We're number one.

2008-09-27T15:47:00.000+08:00

wPuerto’s “Underground River” no. 1 in new7wonder search

September 24, 2008 10:49 pm by pna

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Sept. 24 — The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP), which houses the world’s longest navigable water, is currently number one among more than 300 nominees to become one of the “New Seven Wonders of Nature” in the ongoing worldwide search.

Mayor Edward Hagedorn attributed to the present ranking of PPSRNP, famously known as “Underground River” in sitio Sabang, barangay Cabayugan, located some 81 kilometers north from city, to his continuous campaign to make the park known among domestic and foreign tourists.

Recently, Hagedorn launched the "U R a Wonder of Nature" (URAWN), the promotional program of the city government that provides free tours to the park.

The program aims to make Puerto Princesa and Palawan residents not strangers in their own city, and to invite more votes to the PPSRNP as a nominee in the search.

Hagedorn said he is not surprised with the current ranking of the park, citing it is regularly visited by an average of 400 domestic and international tourists a day.

”Imagine 400 people visited the park everyday and voted for the park,” he said.

“I am thankful to all Filipinos in the country and abroad who continue rally their support and vote to the Underground River”, the official said, as he also appealed to Filipinos worldwide to support the city government’s efforts to include the park in the group of 21 finalists before the internet voting closes Dec. 31, 2008.

In the live ranking as of today, Palawan’s Tubbataha Reef, which has been designated by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a World Heritage Site is on the fourth spot.

Chocolate Hills in Bohol and Mayon Volcano currently rank No. 5 and 11, respectively.

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has earlier urged the public to vote for the Philippines' four entries.

Number ONE

2008-09-22T17:42:00.002+08:00

As i went to see the rankings today...
I started screaming like a mad man...
Words can not contain what i feel right now. I'll blog about this later.
OMG.

enough said.

Underground river gets a boost

2008-09-22T17:39:00.001+08:00

By Geraldford P. Ticke

PUERTO PRINCESA Subterranean River got another major boost in its bid for inclusion to the New 7 Wonders of Nature with its promotion at the recently held 19th Philippine Travel Mart held at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila.

Guests and participants who registered to vote likewise get the chance to visit the world famous Underground River for free as their names will be raffled. The two lucky winners will be announced in December this year and will be notified through e-mail. But before they can avail of the chance, they have to present proof that they indeed voted for the Underground River.

Underground River which has been the perennial showcase of the city in the recent staging of Travelmart is currently at the number 6 ranking of voting. It went to as high as number 4 in rankings but went down to number 16 last month which prompted the city government to launch a promotion that gives residents of the city to visit the Underground River for free. It then went up to number 3 and down to its present ranking of number 6.

Another national park in the province, the Tubattaha Reefs National Marine Park is also in contention and is presently at number 16.

LPP supports 4 nature sites

2008-09-22T17:34:00.002+08:00

by the Bohol Chronicles

CEBU CITY. Of four natural wonders the Philippines is gunning for inclusion in the New 7 Wonders (N7W) of Nature, only one remains in the top seven now.

This prompted the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP) to pass a resolution enjoining all governors and all other local government unit (LGU) administrations in the country to support the Tubbataha Reef of Palawan, the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, the underground river of Puerto Princesa City and the Mayon Volcano of Albay in the N7W of Nature global competition.

Govs. Erico Aumentado of Bohol and Mario Joel Reyes of Palawan introduced Resolution No. 2000-018 during the LPP General Assembly on Sept. 12 at the Marco Polo Plaza, a hotel and convention center in this city.

Selection of the 77 semi-finalists - and ultimately the 21 finalists and the New 7 Wonders of Nature - is by internet voting. Voters can log on to www.new7wonders.com, click on N7W and go to the live ranking to view the top 77. As soon as votes are in, the live ranking is updated twice a day, so that the league is seeking support for the country's nominees.

Of the Philippines' nominees - all with Official Supporting Committees (OSC) already - Puerto Princesa Subterranean River in Palawan is No. 6. Mayon Volcano is at No. 9 while the Chocolate Hills is at No. 11 although it used to be No. 3. The Tubbataha Reef is at No. 18.

The LPP is taking the cudgels for the nominees in securing votes in order that their inclusion among the 21 finalists, and ultimately their selection in the N7W of Nature can be realized, the resolution stated.

The assembly unanimously adopted the resolution that was certified true and correct by Gov. Ben Evardone of Eastern Samar, secretary general, and attested by Govs. Mario Joel Reyes of Palawan, executive vice president, and Loreto Leo Ocampos of Misamis Occidental, national president.

The Trip to our Underground River

2008-09-20T18:57:00.004+08:00

So you guys must be wondering, WHERE HAS TEAM PHILIPPINESE GONE OF TO AGAIN?
the answer is simple it's to the Puerto Princessa Subterranean River!
NO AMOUNT OF WORDS WOULD SUFFICE IN DESCRIBING IT! VOTE NOW!!!

here are some pictures.

Onion
Vegetable JESUS

a letter of support to the Choco Hills OSC

2008-09-10T17:07:00.000+08:00

FROM THE MEDIA HEAD
Province of Bohol
I am Antonieto I. Pernia, Boholano and is deeply involved in the campaign for
Boholanos around the world to support our drive to make the Chocolate Hills
among one of the world’s wonders.

I also happen to be the media head of the provincial government of Bohol under
the leadership of Gov. Erico B. Aumentado.

1. The sheer number of votes in support of Chocolate Hills is
a loud evidence of the united stand of Boholanos,
2. Boholano Associations all over the world stand firm and
committed to rally enough support that catapulted Bohol
to its place among the 7 New Wonders of the World. A
cursory review of the votes for Chocolate hills will show
diverse sources indicating the nationalistic spirit of
Boholanos considering that they are almost everywhere
in the world,
3. The rise in the position of Chocolate Hills from a much
lower ranking is a strong indication of the solidarity of
Boholanos in this campaign.
4. The position presently occupied by Chocolate Hills came
about even in the absence of media campaign especially
in national television. The sheer love for Bohol and the
individual campaign done by Boholanos bolstered by
volunteer groups led by Bob Galang carried Chocolate Hills
to where it is now.
Bohol is the only province in the entire Philippines, maybe even the world, that
has a gathering of all Boholanos around the world every three years. Thousands
of Boholanos find their way to Bohol to show oneness in this celebration.
The campaign to support Chocolate Hills is no different from our celebration of
oneness. We will showcase our solidarity by making Chocolate Hills among the
world’s wonders.

Very truly yours,

ANTONIETO I. PERNIA

Capturing Beauty through Pictures

2008-09-08T16:37:00.004+08:00

Remember the MY WONDER tab we featured quite some time ago?
It's been awhile since I last checked it, but after seeing that there was a good response in uploading photos of our wonders. It is simply heart warming. I remembered why we even care so much for this competition and for our wonders.

Letting people upload pictures of a wonder is simply a great idea! It lets people from around the world see the wonder for what it is in different views and perspective. A perfect example would be Mayon's beauty and perfection, yet at the same time its power of destruction. Also, It stops the judging of a wonder solely based one one picture that may be ugly. Remember Mayon's ugly picture? Think if that was the only picture that the people see.

Among the picture i've seen these were the pictures I most liked. enjoy :)

Pinoys urged: Vote for Tubbataha Reef

2008-09-07T17:57:00.005+08:00

Cebu Daily News
First Posted 11:01:00 03/07/2008

MANILA — Here's one election where everyone is in agreement on the candidate—the Republic of the Philippines.

The Manila city council passed a resolution on Thursday urging Filipinos to vote online for the Tubbataha Reef in Palawan as one of the "New Seven Wonders of Nature."

According to District 2 Councilor Numero Lim, author of the resolution, it is time for Filipinos all over the world to use their Internet skills to vote at www.new7wonders.com for the benefit of the country.

"We Filipinos love to vote, that's why in beauty pageants like Miss Universe we usually win the Miss Photogenic award. So why not make our votes count in something [that] can help to promote the Philippines?" he said.

The Tubbataha Reef in the Sulu Sea is a "unique example of an atoll reef with a very high density of marine species," according to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco), which placed the protected sanctuary in its World Heritage list.

As of 1 p.m. on Thursday, Tubbataha ranked 30th on the list of 77 nominees. The only other Philippine entry, the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, was No. 51, but slowly climbing like Tubbataha.

Ha Long Bay, Phong Nha National Park and Fansipan mountain in Vietnam were the top three vote-getters as of Thursday, followed by Cox’s Bazar Beach in Bangladesh, Sundarbans Forest and the Ganges River in Bangladesh and India, and Mount Everest in Nepal.

The contest was organized by the non-profit Seven Wonders Foundation that was established in 2001 and which conducted the “New Seven Wonders of the World” search that ended in 2007.

“Making the final cut is not only prestigious but (also) a tremendous boost for the country in terms of tourism gains, and winning has remarkable educational value for highlighting the beauty of nature and the diversity of our natural environment,” said the resolution.

Voting for the “New Seven Wonders of Nature” will be open until Dec. 31. Afterward, a panel of experts will trim the 77 nominees to 21 and the last round of voting will be held until the end of 2009.

The top seven vote-getters will be declared the “New Seven Wonders of Nature” in 2010. /Inquirer

Fighting Back

2008-09-07T17:52:00.002+08:00

Now that our lives aren’t so hectic, hopefully we could get things going again. We’re really sorry if we haven’t posted for a long time now.
Anyway…

It’s been a few weeks passed since the great fall of our wonders. The rankings were never stable at that point. They say that the new found excitement of the world was the cause of this and we should expect it to rattle a lot more times ‘til December. However, after some time losing their spot in the top 10, our wonders have come back with a vengeance!
As of 07-SEP-2008 04:00 GMT, Our Subterranean River is not at the 5th spot, followed by Mayon at the 4th spot. Also the Chocolate Hills is at 7th place, and as for our prized Tubbataha reef, it is at the 12th spot.

This is really great having support pour in when we need it most. At some point it really felt demoralizing seeing the numbers fall. But now, we’ve come back and really to fight on. We should take this as a wake up call and know that we are never safe and we should not stop supporting our candidates.

As much as I wouldn’t want to spoil the celebration of our return to the top, I have to be honest and say that indeed we can do better than this. For example, Tubbataha once reached the 2nd spot, but is now at the 12th spot. We can do it Philippines! Fight on! We aren’t known as the Pearl of the Orient for nothing.

A Reminder... :]

2008-08-25T15:25:00.000+08:00

Mayon is a good bet on itself being in the top 21 list. Although this perfectly coned-shape volcano is our noticeably top choice, the 3 Philippine nominees also has their own voices on making the top 21. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River shows us it’s might stalactites and stalagmites, symbolizing one of the countless beauties the Philippines has. The Chocolate Hills is there as well symbolizing the uniqueness and mystique of the country. The Tubatahha Reef on the other hand shows the world that the Philippines is a nice place to be in, but most importantly, one of the best places in the world to be at home. These are just a few examples of how these wonders represents, show, symbolize, and are important to us. So before you vote, don’t just see how beautiful these wonders are physically. Remember what these wonder show through their beauty.

Just A Recap So Far...

2008-08-25T15:23:00.000+08:00

Ok, so currently, as of August 26th, 2008, Mayon Volcano is the leading Philippine nominee for the N7W race. It is as of now, at the 11th position of the race. Hmmm... Not bad! Considering the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River is not far behind (which is currently at 15th), we’re making good progress. As follows are the Chocolate Hills (16th) and the Tubbataha Reef (17th). We’re making good progress. All we have to do according to my observations is to keep it up! Yes, we may have experienced drops and ups in this race. Let’s just not wait until our dear nominees exit door going outside of the top 21 hallway.

update.

2008-08-23T23:39:00.003+08:00

enough said.

Fighting Back with the Dots

2008-08-22T22:12:00.000+08:00

First of all, we would like to apologize that we have not exactly been updating our blog for the month of August. This is due to our separate problems. So we hope by September we get to update more.

Previously, we’ve seen our wonders drop to a great extent. Having Tubbataha reef in the number two spot seems like a far off memory now. However, the good news is some of our wonders have started to fight back.

However, amongst all this, we turn out attention to the dots! The thing is most of the candidates in the top 77 has a red dot, which means it does not have an OSC (official supporting committee) which is needed to qualify. So even though a candidate has run off into the top 3, but not OSC by December 31 2008, it will be not considered as a candidate. This is a good thing of course! This gives the deserving wonders a better chance, but of course there will be the cons of this, but that’s another blog.

So Fight back Philippines!

4 RP bets in New 7 Wonders of Nature drop in rankings

2008-08-16T16:51:00.004+08:00

It's caused quite a stir in media and on the Pinoy online community. Our drop in the rankings has got supporters worried. I can see how the Pinoy online community is trying to boost our candidates before it's too late, but what about everyone else?

-end-

4 RP bets in New 7 Wonders of Nature drop in rankings
AIE BALAGTAS SEE, GMANews.TV
08/14/2008 | 11:16 PM

MANILA, Philippines - The rankings of the country's four nature spots in the ongoing global hunt that seeks to uncover the new Seven Wonders of Nature have plunged, as shown in the online voting results as of August 14.

Dropping one notch from 8th to 9th is Palawan’s Tubbataha Reefs, which has been the home of many endangered species like manta rays, lionfish, tortoises, downfish and sharks.

Likewise, Bohol’s Chocolate Hills – the 1,268 perfectly cone-shaped hills that turn brown during dry seasons (hence, the name) – had slid from 9th place to 10th.

Meanwhile, Puerto Princesa's Subterranean River National Park went down to 11th position from its previous 10th ranking. This wondrous splendor boasts a limestone karst mountain landscape with an 8.2 km navigable underground river. It also has major formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and several large chambers.

The most dramatic plunge among the Philippine bets was that of Mayon Volcano in Albay. The active volcano’s ranking appeared not so active after it dropped from 18th to the 20th place.

According to the search's website, the top 77 Official Nominees will be will be considered by the Nature Panel of Experts for shortlisting.

The ranking is updated twice a day and the voting will last until Dec. 31, 2008. To vote, just log in on the website.

The top 21 finalist nominees selected by the panels will undertake another round of voting which will be held from 2009-2010. From these, the new seven wonders will be selected. - GMANews.TV

Mayon bid for ‘7 wonders’ gets full Bicol support

2008-08-15T11:24:00.003+08:00

By Ephraim Aguilar
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:12:00 08/15/2008
(FULL STORY)

LEGAZPI CITY – Mayon Volcano’s mild ash explosion Sunday could be an alert signal for its supporters to cast more votes as it slid down by more than 10 notches this week in the New Seven Wonders of Nature online search.

All Philippine candidates – including Palawan’s Tubbataha Reef, Bohol’s Chocolate Hills and Puerto Princesa’s Subterranean River National Park – fell from the top seven list Thursday in live rankings on www.n7w.com.

In the Bicol region, posters campaigning for Mt. Mayon are everywhere – on streets, airports, Internet cafes, campuses, offices and stores.

Radio advertisements, which are mostly pro bono, have been aired in local stations here.

Albay provincial board member Glenda Bongao, chair of the committee on tourism, said the provincial government is mounting a plan to enlarge the campaign into a national advocacy.

“Here in Bicol, we have encouraged provinces other than Albay to support Mt. Mayon. Even other regions can vote for all Philippine nominees,” Bongao said.

Nini Ravanilla, director of the Department of Tourism in Bicol, said it is time for the government and the private sector to join hands.

She said the tourism department had already launched campaigns in Australia, Canada and the United States to draw support from Filipino expatriates and overseas workers there.

Ravanilla said they are banking on the youth, who are more technologically savvy, not just to vote but to start an online campaign.

The Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education in Bicol have released memorandum circulars instructing schools to campaign for Mayon volcano.

“We can even create multiple e-mail addresses every week so we could vote as many times as we can,” Ravanilla said.

The results of the seven wonders online search are determined through the number of votes cast on www.n7w.com. Voting is on until Dec. 31.

Kristina Uy Gadaingan, a young professional from Legazpi City, would send text messages and e-mails to friends and post a bulletin on social networking sites such as Friendster and Multiply to campaign for Mt. Mayon.

She said since voters are required to vote for seven candidates, Filipinos should vote for those at the very bottom to push the Philippine nominees up the ranks

*photo from BISEAN

RP netizens unite: Tubbataha, Mayon need your vote now

2008-08-15T11:20:00.003+08:00

RP netizens unite: Tubbataha, Mayon need your vote now
By Ronnel Domingo
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 05:48:00 08/14/2008

"MANILA, Philippines—Filipino netizens should cast their votes for tourism havens in the Philippines if they want the sites to be included in the New 7 Wonders of Nature, Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said.

“The (Department of Tourism) continues to encourage everyone to participate in the survey,” he said.

In an online poll, the places of four sites in the country have dropped after cornering four of the seven top spots in June.

As of Wednesday, the Tubbataha Reef ranked eighth, Chocolate Hills ninth, Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park 10th, and Mayon Volcano 18th.

Popularity contest

Durano has cited the popularity contest as a big opportunity to promote destinations in the country and draw in tourists to meet the target of having 5 million visitors in 2010.

“We further appreciate efforts of communities and groups in promoting the nominated destinations to domestic and foreign audiences alike,” he said.

With four sites, the Philippines currently holds the most number of destinations on the top 20 list, which is dominated by developing countries, particularly those in Asia and South America."

SEE FULL STORY HERE!

the blinking dot

2008-08-14T17:44:00.002+08:00

-the newest member, Charlie (I'm a girl) :P

Remember the post about the OSC tab and the dots? well there's a new dot in town!
...and this time it's BLINKING! red-green-red-green.

This is a multi-national nominee that needs all countries to officially support it.
WITHOUT AN OFFICIAL SUPPORTING COMMITTEE FROM EACH COUNTRY IT MAY BE ELIMINATED FROM THE FINALIST SELECTION. Click on the nominee to find out more

That's a big hit on wonders like the Amazon!
Isn't that a bit harsh? Let's hope this doesn't get in the way of deserving wonders.

Oh well.back to our wonders. Now, what ever will we do about our dropping wonders?
Have you done your part?

Drop.

2008-08-14T13:54:00.000+08:00

MINDANAO, AUGUST 14, 2008 (STAR) By Mayen Jaymalin - The Philippines’ nominations to the new seven wonders of the world online contest are continually dropping from the top 20 list, the Department of Tourism (DOT) reported yesterday.

Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano said that as of the latest count, the Tubbataha reef ranks eighth, the Chocolate Hills ninth, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park 10th and Mayon Volcano at 18th place.

“We have the most number of destinations in the top 20 list, which is dominated by Asian and South American countries. But we are continually dropping,” Durano pointed out.

Durano then renewed the DOT’s call to the general public to continue voting for the country’s nominees.

“The DOT encourages everyone to participate in the survey,” Durano said as he expressed appreciation over efforts of communities and groups in promoting the nominated destinations to both domestic and foreign audience.

Durano said the rankings are updated twice daily and may be viewed at http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/liveranking. Voters have until Dec. 31 to log in their nominations at www.new7wonders.com and the top 21 finalists at the end of the first round will be announced in January 2009.

A second year-long competition will then be held to determine the top seven contenders to be officially declared the new “Seven Wonders of Nature” by the year 2010.

Durano, earlier, expressed hope that the search would not only promote the country’s destinations to foreign tourists but also encourage every Filipino in advocating the conservation of our ecological treasures.

“By landing in the list of the Seven Wonders of Nature, tourism activities near these sites will rise, thus benefiting the livelihood of Filipinos living nearby,” the tourism chief added.

Since its inception on July 7, 2007, the Seven Wonders of Nature list has included the Tubbataha Reef and Chocolate Hills as top candidates in the 2nd and 3rd place positions.

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park has beaten India’s River Ganges in reaching for 5th place, while the Mayon Volcano bested Japan’s Mount Fuji and was ranked 9th in the overall tally.

The search for the Seven Wonders of Nature was organized by the non-profit Seven Wonders Foundation, an association that aims to conserve the world’s natural and man-made heritage through advocacy and documentation.

An Apology...

2008-08-14T13:46:00.001+08:00

Okay. So yesterday I was a tiny bit furious. Well, I apologize to the people I’ve offended and such. I just wanted to make a point somehow. It’s not as if I’m blaming anyone there. It’s just simply because I really want this title so badly. Come on people. We can do this! Power to the peeps! Remember? Only we can make a difference in this race. WE CAN DO THIS!

Hello? OMG?!? What the heck people?

2008-08-13T13:39:00.001+08:00

OMG. That’s all the letters I need to say to express how I feel about the rankings. What’s the matter with you people?!? Our rankings are going down. I thought we wanted this title? I thought we want this not only for ourselves but for the pride of our country. Well, I only have a few words to say. If we want this, we’d vote and put effort into this. It’s like a roller coaster ride remember? Ups and downs may happen but whatever sharp turns we experience we still finish our goal. In tagalong I should say: MGA P*TA!!! !#!#()@&*^!&)$)%&%$@%$*^!!$^)!^$&*!$^!!!!!!!!!! Hayop! Lintekan kayo!!! Ang tatamad natin!!! Kaya magsigising na kayo at tumitig sa kompyuter. Mag-vote!

Smile for Chocolate

2008-08-06T16:29:00.002+08:00

I wanted to share this with all of you. This just really made me smile. :D

The Municipality of Carmen's Official Sandugo 2008 float entry, photo by Roger Gatal

Overview: Slipping away & on OSC

2008-08-05T16:03:00.001+08:00

So Far, well as most of you noticed our candidates have been slipping in the rankings dues to the huge leaps of the candidates. It seems the rest of the whole world has joined in the excitement. Not only this, the candidates without an OSC that have disappeared in the rankings have come back. This is probably be cause of the new feature that lets you see the status of an OSC for a candidate.

Another Point, the OSCs well if you look at the rankings and even the list of candidates you have only see a limited number of Green Dots that signify a up and running OSC. I’m proud to say that all four candidates have one and maybe this will improve our chances…but what about those wonders aside from ours that deserve to be in the next round?

"OFFICIAL SUPPORT TAB" now open!

2008-07-31T18:21:00.004+08:00

The N7W have added a new column when you check the rankings. Their simply different colored dos. But these dots represent the status of the Official Support Committee (OSC)

	"This nominee is officially supported. Click on the name of the nominee to find out more.
	This nominee is not yet officially supported. Without an Official Supporting Committee (OSC), a nominee cannot participate in the next stages of the New7Wonders of Nature campaign. Support your nominee! Find out how easy it is to start an OSC.
	OSC-Status: Pending We have been approached for the formation of an Official Supporting Committee (OSC) for this nominee. However the applicant does not fulfil all the New7Wonders of Nature requirements for an OSC formation. If YOU are an official administrator of a public entity or could enroll such public entity, please fill out the OSC fax application and fax it to us."

So when you click this tab in the page of site you are presented with information about the OSC! And it now have the widget as previously featured, new pictures and write ups for some and it now says the site's category.

And I am proud to say that all our sites have an OSC! Here's a list.

Chocolate Hills
Mel Alfarero / Bob Galang
26868 Claystone Drive
Moreno Valley
CA 92555
UNITED STATES

Protected Area Management Board
Mr. James Mendoza
11 National Highway
San Miguel
Puerto Princesa City 5300
PHILIPPINES

Department of Tourism - Southern Tagalong Region
Director Louelle C. Jurilla / Ms Angelique M. Songco
2nd Floor
Room 208
Department of Tourism Building
T.M. Kalaw Street
Ermita
Manila
PHILIPPINES

Albay Mabuhay Task Force
Governor Joey Sarte Salceda / Mr José M. Briones
Albay Tourism Building
Albay Astrodome Complex
Legazpi City
4500 Albay
PHILIPPINES

*on a sad note. our sites are experiencing a rough time in the rankings lately, but hopefully this will not affect out chance at the top 21.mabuhay.

Carmen on "7 Wonders" drive for Choco

2008-07-29T16:01:00.001+08:00

By SEVERINA B. PALINGCOD
The Bohol Crhonicle

CARMEN. The executive and legislative department of this municipality go on the stride to promote the world-renowned tourist destination of this island province - Chocolate Hills.

In consonance with the search for the New 7 Wonders of Nature, the Sangguniang Bayan headed by Vice Mayor Ramonito A. Torrefranca is attending the PCL Continuing Legislative Education Program in Naga City and to campaign for voting Chocolate Hills as one of the candidates for the global search.

On the other hand, Mayor Manuel Molina also initiated a special force in coordination with the Bohol Sandugo Foundation Inc. to go with the campaign.

During the Sandugo street dancing extravaganza today, a computer with Internet connection will be installed at the CPG Sports Complex Area available for the voting process.

The town's executive is humbly appealing to everyone to be a part of the global cause by casting your votes now until Dec. 31 this year. All you have to do is to create your e-mail add and access thru: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/vote_on_nominees/?firstselect=6:249

Let it be known to all civic minded people that one can vote at a maximum of seven times a day.

The information officer of the town is also appealing for support through the Association of United Development Information Officers (AUDIO) Bohol for the campaign by cascading the global information to your respective municipalities and friends here and abroad.

Your supports will promote not only the town of Carmen but also the entire province and country.

NEW "MY WONDER" TAB

2008-07-27T13:10:00.004+08:00

When you go to to a candidate's page. there are 4 tabs on the top. The My wonder tab is now available.

This space is for you to share what you like about your favourite New7Wonders of Nature nominee, what makes it special, why this is your Wonder!
Upload your photos here for the world to see.

Basically it's a place where you can upload pictures of a wonder. With "permission" of course

of course sunshine wanted to fill it. haha

Half Way Through

2008-07-26T14:04:00.000+08:00

Half Way Through
-pinoy na nasubsob sa canda

Imagine the Empire State Building. Imagine climbing it. Imagine being on top of it, all because you have completed the journey. What happens when you don’t? What happens when the rope got cut off? You fall, die, end your life miserably. Thinking this would happen, how can we live with your self thinking that the journey has not been completed and it is now impossible for it to be finished?

N7W; a journey we have begun just the beginning of this year. “tick-tock” rings the clock. What about it? We’re half way through?... But, what’s this? The rope... It’s MISSING. We’re FALLING. And now, we’re back to where we were before. Below what we have expected.

Half Way Through. These words mean everything right now. We are half way done through our N7W journey. All we just need to do is maintain our cool and continue on with it. If we give up now, God knows what will happen with our pride, conscience, and mind in the future.

Mikel Placido's video campaign.

2008-07-24T20:16:00.004+08:00

I've always gotten videos from youtube. I've posted quite a number of videos actually. Only now did i realized that most of the videos we've got are from one person: Mikel Placido. Thanks to the site of the support group based in the US

Mark Placido has apparently ventured in a video campaign for the Chocolate Hills.

His posted videos include:
Mikel Placido's video campaign. (personal)
President Gloria M. Arroyo's campaign over Station DYRD
Congressman Edgar Chatto's Campaign
Vice Governor Julius Caesar Herrera's Campaign
The episode of ANC's Crossroads
and more.

see some of them here.
Though I am not sure of his Youtube channel i THINK it is nestorbohol.
none the less, every one deserves credit. Go Philippines. Mabuhay.

_____________________________________________

Since we're giving praise to people, i got an email just awhile ago that during ABS-CBN, a local TV channel in the Philippines, show called "The Singing Bee", there was a group in the audience, in the front holding a tarp promoting the Chocolate Hills. :D

US support group's site

2008-07-23T16:43:00.006+08:00

Remember that American based support group for Chocolate Hills?

Well. We’ve recently found its website
And let me say that it is an amazing website! It has pictures, music, letters, links and everything! It shows that a lot of time and effort has been put into this!

And well. Surprisingly, as I viewed the gallery…I shed a tear.

NEW N7W WIDGET

2008-07-19T19:04:00.000+08:00

What better way to show how much you support your favorite nominee then by grabbing and sharing the New7Wonders of Nature Widget!

Grab it from the "Get and Share" button on the left and post it on any of your profiles, on your blog or your website.

Support your New7Wonders of Nature Nominee!

Neck to Neck

2008-07-19T16:20:00.000+08:00

xoxo.Sunshine.

I’ve always thought that the top few spots in the rankings were cemented to their places and could only move when they’ve somehow gathered enough votes to even over power the incoming votes of the one above them. Well…WRONG.

Now as the world has become more excited, the rankings have been vulnerable to change, unlike a few months ago, when it all appeared so stable. If you’ve been observing the rankings closely you would have noticed that a lot of things can happen over night. For example: Tubbatha Reef reached the 2^nd place, a day after Cox’s Bazar took it’s place, another day after, it replaced Ha Long Bay’s spot as 1^st place. Then after a few more days Ganges River took over Tubbatha’s spot and is now in the 4^th place. Need more convincing? On June 17, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park went up one spot and was the 6^th,over taking Mt. Everest. On the next day, June 18, we see that Mt. Everest has reclaimed its spot as the 6^th.

No. I’m not telling you anything. YOU tell me what’s going to happen. YOU tell me what to do.

Four RP wonders still in top 10 web campaign as Pinoy votes continue

2008-07-16T13:40:00.001+08:00

By RAQUEL BERNAL-CRISOSTOMO

ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau

Pinoys in Belgium are overwhelmed that four of the most beautiful places in the Philippines are still in the top 10 of the 77 nominees vying to be included in the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

Virginia Vagila, an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) said being in the top 10 will definitely help the Philippines' tourism industry.

"Of course, I feel proud and happy that some of the best tourist attractions in our country are in top 10. This only means that the beauty of the Philippines is being recognized everywhere", she said.

As of this posting, Tubbataha Reef found in Sulu Sea is fourth, followed by Bohol's Chocolate Hills in fifth spot. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan remains strong at sixth while Mayon Volcano in Bicol is ninth.

Tia Viering, head of communications of the New 7 Wonders of Nature explained that each country can only have 1 finalist. Despite this limitation, she expected that voting will still "go crazy" with four Filipino nominees.

"I think that Filipino nominees have great chances, and I think this is going to be very exciting. We at 7 Wonders Foundation do not control the campaign. We accept what people say, and so obviously, many people around the world believe that the four Filipino nominees are very deserving", she said.

She affirmed that there is a lot to gain for all the people who will participate in the voting process.

"I think that no matter who wins, no matter what becomes of the 7 Wonders of Nature, it is fantastic for the people to interact. The New 7 Wonders want people all over the world to discover each other, to see the beautiful things on the other side of the planet, to learn about other countries and learn about other culture", she said.

Voting for the top 77 nominees will be up to end of December 2008. Of these nominees, Dr. Federico Mayor, former director of United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and other experts will choose and visit the 21 finalists. In mid-2010, the New 7 Wonders of Nature will be named.

Viering encouraged everyone, especially Filipinos, to be part of the worldwide voting and feel proud of their rich natural resources that many other countries don't have.

"It is also very exciting for Filipinos to show the pride in the natural wonders that you have, and that is one of the most important things—to appreciate what you have, to appreciate the beauty of your country, and to be very proud of it", she said

Journey into the Batcave

2008-07-15T16:20:00.003+08:00

This is an article James found in one of the local newspapers in London. It's great to see what other countries would think about our wonders, after all we can't help but be biased. Thanks James.
Oh and Cheers! for the PP underground river moved one spot up and is now at the 6th spot.

by FIONA CULLINAN - Friday, July 11, 2008

Batman would be jealous. I'm about to sail down the world's longest navigable underground river which winds its way through a cavernous des res for more than 40,000 bats. They're said to hang from giant rocky pillars in cathedral-sized caverns that make the Batcave look like a tiny bedsit.

Of course, there's no Batmobile to get you here. But our dugout banca boat does come with bamboo wings, a single wooden paddle and a Filipino guide who hisses like Gollum in the darkness.

I'm on the Puerto Princesa river; hidden away in the remote but eco-conscious island of Palawan - known as the Philippines' last frontier - it begins underneath spectacular limestone karst landscapes and flows scenically out into the South China Sea.

Walkway to paradise
Our journey to get to this natural wonder has been challenging. The 81km (50-mile) journey from the island's capital Puerto Princesa (from where the river takes its name) had begun serenely enough but paved roads soon gave way to hubcap-deep mud tracks. The final descent into the World Heritage Site and national park surrounding Palawan's most visited attraction involved some serious bone-shaking, which explained why Joseph, our 4x4 driver, had recommended motion sickness tablets.

That, of course, and the South China Sea. After picking up our permits on the beach we had to take a 20-minute boat ride on choppy water to a sandy cove where large monitor lizards basked in the sun. A forested walkway then lead us to a paradise lagoon of deep jade - where even Indiana Jones types had to don bright orange life vests.

But here we are at the mouth of the 8km-long underground river and I feel like Jonah being sucked into the whale as we're greeted by a set of giant, teeth-like stalactites.

As we enter, there's a stinging ammonia smell of bat guano and I spark up our spotlight to see the incredible limestone formations. There can't be many places in the world you'd find the Virgin Mary next to a giant mushroom or a strung-up turkey next to a dinosaur but Puerto Princesa is one of them.

Magical sights
Naked ladies looking saucily over their shoulder, old men hunched over with age and giant candles all pass under the spotlight. Some images unfold instantly, others require a magic eye to see them. Still, tableau after tableau comes up as we move deeper beneath the mountain.

Other highlights include a 65m-high chamber called Cathedral Cave and those 40,000 bats fleeing the cave en masse at twilight to hunt for ready meal bugs.

Five of the river's 8km are navigable but 1.5km in is as far as tourists usually go - although it's possible to continue with a few extra pesos to the boatman.

Great place to hang
The return journey yields yet more beautiful visions in the darkness - and the crackling of popping candy. At least that's what it sounds like in the dark. It's actually cave swiftlets clicking: a sonar system to locate their way in pitch blackness.

Puerto Princesa may be a long way from civilisation but it seems civilisation is still prepared to make the journey to this underground wonder - where Batman may not be found but his brethren always seem to be hanging out.

slowly slipping away…

2008-07-13T22:37:00.000+08:00

With more and more counties getting more excited about the N7W, it’s hard to maintain out place. It has been said that Asia was one of the first regions to get “excited” about this campaign, which resulted to Asia dominating the rankings. However a few months have past and a whole lot of other counties have become “excited”. Now with countries left and right pushing their wonders forward, where does that leave us? A lot can happen before 2009 comes.

Look at Vietnam, they have remained in the number one sport for months, and though they dropped to number two, they have been campaigning like it was for their life. Huge Banners near and far the site, voting stations with persuasive attendants, ads and commercials this has what kept the Vietnamese excited. Why can’t we have that? Is it the lack of funds? Now we’re slowly slipping away…

Now, the DOT may not be able to keep the people but we, the people online can try. Let us follow up about the n7w. Keep the momentum running. Keep promoting. Keep going on. In 2 weeks we slipped by 2 ranks for most of our wonders. 2 weeks. What about 6 moths?

The Other events…\

2008-07-12T18:44:00.000+08:00

It seems we’ve been so wrapped up on the 2009 revelation of the 21 candidates, which we’ve forgotten about the other events concerning our nation.

Ms. Universe 2008

This is year’s pageant will be held in Vietnam. Our very own Jennifer Barrientoswill be competing for the crown. It will be on this Monday, July 14.

2008 Beijing Olympics

Of course, the very famous Olymics! Who can forget that? It will be on 8.8.08 at 8.08 am in the morning. The Philippines has about 15 candidates in 8 different sports
We have a total of 2 silver and 7 bronze medals, and maybe this year we’ll get our gold!

Mabuhay to everyone!

Poll Analysis.

2008-07-10T20:53:00.000+08:00

As of July 10, 2008, this blog’s poll has reached up to 100 votes, which means100 different people, 100 different opinions and 100 people to thank.

So let’s take a look.

Chocolate Hills 31

Tubbataha 36

Mayon 10

Puerto Princesa 23

As expected The Chocolate Hills and Tubbataha Reef have a good standing in the poll. Having Chocolate Hills as a famous and one of a kind wonder and having the Tubbataha reef as one of the best diving spots, there is no question that they would have a strong standing. This just reflects how most people would route for these two wonders. If it was only between this 2, it would be too close to call.

As for our underground river, though it has been introduced later in the competition, it shows a pretty good standing. I feel this wonder is not given as much credit as it deserves. I feel unlike the Chocolate Hills and Tubbataha Reef, which can be appreciated through the information and pictures readily available. This wonder needs to be seen and experienced first hand, in order to truly appreciate it.

On Mayon on the other hand, it really pales in comparison, only garnering 10%. This can be partly attributed to it’s long period of absence in the rankings. But then again, I’m sure it should have gotten more. Why is Mayon usually people’s least favorite?

Bottom line. They all just simply deserve it.

UNESCO names 8 new wonders.

2008-07-10T16:19:00.001+08:00

I simply wanted to post this because it has got me wondering: will this affect n7w of nature :) we'll see.

Andrea Thompson
Senior Writer
LiveScience.com Wed Jul 9, 12:51 PM ET

Eight new natural wonders, including the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico and what has been dubbed "the Galápagos of the Indian Ocean," have been added to the World Heritage List.

World Heritage Sites are named by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The sites, both cultural and natural, added to the list are deemed "of outstanding value to humanity" and deserve protection and preservation, according to the UNESCO Web site.

With the new additions, the World Heritage List now boasts 878 sites (679 cultural, 174 natural and 25 mixed) in 145 countries. The eight new natural sites added this year include:

Joggins Fossil Cliffs (Canada)
Mount Sanqingshan National Park (China)
Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems (France)
Surtsey (Iceland)
Saryarka - Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan (Kazakhstan)
Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve (Mexico)
Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona (Switzerland)
Socotra Archipelago (Yemen)

"These eight stunning natural sites are amongst the best of what nature has to offer," said David Sheppard, head of the IUCN's Protected Areas Program, which recommended the sites. (IUCN stands for International Union for Conservation of Nature.)

Happy Anniversary

2008-07-08T15:59:00.002+08:00

One year after the Declaration of the New 7 Wonders of the World in Lisbon on 07.07.07, Bernard Weber, Founder & President of New7Wonders, has a message for you.

http://www.new7wonders.com/n7w/video/

7 Questions and 7 Answers on 07.07.08

2. Why are these legitimate as the New 7 Wonders of the World? How did you ensure that very populous countries did not “hijack” the election?

From S. Bloomfield in the United Kingdom, Carlos Figueroa in Guatemala, and many others.

Bernard Weber: I feel very strongly that world heritage, as the name says, belongs to the people of the world. Over 100 million votes from every corner of the world very clearly legitimizes the New 7 Wonders of the World. And we are estimating over 1 billion votes for the New7Wonders of Nature. These are choices made by the people of the world and belong to all the people of our world.

These huge numbers stand in contrast to the one man who chose the Ancient 7 Wonders of the World, and it is also very different from the only 21 people who select the World Heritage list of over 850 locations at UNESCO.

When I had the vision of bringing the world together to choose the New 7 Wonders of the World, I knew that using the power and reach of modern communications technology would be the fairest, and indeed the only, way to hold a global vote and reaching as many people as possible. The number of people with access to the Internet is growing each day, and many more already use mobile telephones. The fact that a huge percentage of the over 100 million votes were from the developing world shows that there is a growing desire in all countries to interact with people around the world.
To make sure that the vote not only was as fair as possible, but it really got people thinking about the world around them, everyone voting in a New7Wonders campaign through our website must submit 7 votes. This means that each person in a country with a finalist had to vote for 6 finalists that were not in his or her country! So it was impossible for any one country to dominate the voting. As the international media pointed out: “The poll itself is a wonder,” said the Reuters news agency and the Associated Press called New7Wonders “Something new to bring the world together.” For more information, see the voting analysis.

http://www.new7wonders.com/n7w/new7news/questions_answers_070708/

INTERESTING.

Rants on Mayon are Heard

2008-07-07T17:04:00.002+08:00

Studiowork Plus

Mayon Volcano
THIS IS MAYON'S NEW PICTURE!
HORAY! Thank You ,n7w

Maybe they did hear sunshines's rants.

"Mayon Volcano formed a perfect cone in over 400 years of eruptions, a true wonders created by nature"
Prasad from BANGLADESH, 22-JUN-2008

"Truly one of the most beautiful and perfectly made masterpiece that God had created to be proud of not just for the Filipinos but also the people around the world!"
Reina Robles from UNITED STATES, 02-JUL-200

Momentum

2008-07-03T18:02:00.001+08:00

By: nadapasacanada

The punch line of a comedian during a performance, the feeling of a president when stating the headline of his/her speech, the impression on your face when you receive a surprise: momentum. All of these examples are no different than the sudden drop during a roller coaster ride. Isn’t that the main point of riding it anyway? We fall in line to experience that drop. Once it has started, we all wish it wouldn’t end. Just like the N7W, we had to nominate. Just like falling in line, we had to wait until we reach our goal, our destination, being on the ride itself. Once we’re there, we experience bumps, sudden sharp turns, and the cliché sudden drops. But no matter what happens, we surely are to arrive in the end, safe and happy. I feel like I’m riding on a roller coaster ride called the N7W Express. It’s consisted of four carts: the Mayon Volcano, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, Chocolate Hills, and Tubbataha Reef carts. There’s only one problem about it though. It’s as if the ride is over, only, I’m not satisfied. It’s as if I just rode a horse going five steps away.

I feel as if the N7W race for our country is lacking momentum. Seeing our ranks now, I would think it would be worse than lack of momentum. What happened with the bumps, sharp turns, and sudden drops? What happened to that feeling of swallowing your tummy once those happen? What happened to the push and force we need to experience satisfaction once we end the ride? Only the machinery can provide that for the N7W Express. For the real race, WE are the machinery. It is up to us to continue to support our country in the N7W. Keep in mind, if the machinery doesn’t provide enough power, the roller coaster itself will be stranded in the middle of the journey.

Rico speaks to 3 Pinoy groups in US

2008-07-02T16:34:00.000+08:00

"LAS VEGAS, USA. Gov. Erico Aumentado will start this week his string of speaking engagements with Boholano groups in the United States of America."

"While in the US, the governor is also campaigning for attendance to the Tigum Bol-anon Tibuok Kalibutan or global conference of Boholanos slated in Bohol in July next year, as well as for votes among internet users to include the Chocolate Hills in the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

As of last night, the Chocolate Hills has climbed to 4th slot among 77 semi-finalists. It is next only to Ha Long Bay of Vietnam, Cox's Bazar Beach in Bangladesh, and Tubbataha Reef in Palawan also in the Philippines.

Others in the Top 7 live ranking so far - all in Asia - are the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park also in Palawan, the Ganges River that runs across Bangladesh and India and Mt. Everest in Nepal."

Read Whole Article Here!

Rankings Lag

2008-07-02T16:22:00.000+08:00

I'm not sure if this is true or anything, but I think there’s a lag in the rankings! Maybe there’s actually a long process before votes are counted. Hmm…I don’t know. Proof of this is candidates jumping like crazy. It seems almost impossible for something to get to the 50s from the 150s. I’m not trusting the rankings that much, anymore.

Shaken rankings 2

2008-06-30T16:48:00.001+08:00

I guess it's pretty obvious what's going on...
please refer to Shaken rankings 1

(2)

BANGLADESH - Asia

(1)

VIET NAM - Asia

(6)

BANGLADESH/ INDIA - Asia

(3)

PHILIPPINES - Asia

(4)

PHILIPPINES - Asia

(7)

Mount Everest, Mountain

NEPAL - Asia

Vote

(5)

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

PHILIPPINES - Asia

Vote

(9)

Mayon Volcano

PHILIPPINES - Asia

Vote

(8)

Amazon River, River/Forest

BOLIVIA/ BRAZIL/ COLOMBIA/ ECUADOR/ PERU/ VENEZUELA - South America

Vote

10.

(10)

Mount Fuji, Mountain

JAPAN - Asia

Vote

11.

(11)

Cocos Island, Island

COSTA RICA - North America

Vote

12.

(49)

K2, Mountain

CHINA/ PAKISTAN - Asia

Vote

13.

(52)

Chitwan, National Park

NEPAL - Asia

Vote

14.

(73)

Rara Lake, Lake

NEPAL - Asia

Vote

15.

(140)

Dahlak Archipelago

ERITREA - Africa

Vote

Are we going to slack off?

Shaken rankings 1

2008-06-29T18:44:00.001+08:00

-obsessing pinoy

140^th -60^th: Dahlak Archipelago ERITREA – Africa

73^rd-35^th: Rara Lake, Lake NEPAL – Asia

52^nd- 21^st: Chitwan, National Park NEPAL – Asia

49^th-20^th: K2, Mountain CHINA/ PAKISTAN – Asia

5^th-6^th: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park PHILIPPINES – Asia

2^nd-1^st: Cox's Bazar, Beach BANGLADESH – Asia

The rankings have shaken really hard.
It’s amazing what can happen in a span of a few hours isn’t it? We finally have a new number one. We have another site that slipped down, the 2^nd time! We’ve seen huge jumps, especially with Africa. Seem they’re making a come back!

Let’s not be so confident. If this trend continues, we’ll be nothing in no time! December is a long time from now and anything can happen! Let us not underestimate sites and countries, a testament to this are Mali, last year Timbuktu “scratched the surface” of the top 7 in a matter of days! We’ve become too relaxed. Don’t let the momentum die! Continue to fight! We deserve it! We are our wonders! Mabuhay!

Bagong Simula

2008-06-29T14:38:00.000+08:00

Questions on Mayon

2008-06-26T16:25:00.008+08:00

Sunshine aka the bitch

It was said that the last eruption was on Aug.2006. I checked BISEANS’s blog which notes their visit to Mayon Volcano on September of 2007. The pictures of the show a beautiful Mayon.

Then…if it is true that “the recent eruption” on Mayon destroyed the perfect cone, then why is it still perfect? Is there an explosion I missed? Anyone?

http://bisean.blogspot.com/2007/09/mt-mayon-her-volcanic-majesty.html

FYI:The picture of Mayon is n7w is still ugly.

Here’s another thing I’m t so sure on.
I looked for Mayon on Google Maps and found these :

Looks perfect here…

But…

Is my computer or internet broke? Or what? What the hell is that? It’s like sliced in half. Is that the true mayon?! Please do enlighten me.

The Rise and Fall of Wonders

2008-06-25T16:13:00.001+08:00

Hmm…It’s been quite sometime since our last blog hasn’t it? You see there has been a succession of problems lately. But anyway, back to the blogs!

by sunshine

Of course most of have noticed the drop of our two candidates: the chocolate hills and tubbataha reef. They were over taken by Bangladesh’s Cox Bazaar.

The thing is, there is nothing to be worried about. I mean, it’s really a reason of go war freak is it? We’ve more or less has secured our candidates (for now) and the goal this year is to get us in to the top 77 because after that….it’s not in our hands anymore.

Though we should not care so much for the slight drop once in awhile, we must remain strong and vigilant and continue to gather support! We must gain momentum especially for the next round. If we Marjory drop then we should panic.

Condura Ref and Tubbataha ads

2008-06-25T16:12:00.000+08:00

I was browsing through the news papers the other day. The Condura Ref. ad didn’t seem to special to me, but we a closer look…there it said “vote for tubbataha in…”
though may be a small ad for it, but just the simple mention can help a lot!

Hat’s off to Condura Ref: The Negosyo Ref.

See? You get advertised here too! You gain what you give. Nyahaha

Mayon's Ugly Photo

2008-06-18T17:23:00.004+08:00

-sunshine

As I went to check up on our nominees, Mayon’s Page really got me fired up. They replaced the ok picture of Mayon (the close up of the tip) with a really ugly one! Hell it doesn’t even look like Mayon now! We left a message on the sit, but I doubt that’s going to do anything. If they are really serious on the equal footing thing then they should show the BEST of each site. I mean I haven’t seen an ugly photo of any of the wonders-except this. Here it is!

Sure it wasn’t as perfect as before, but I’ve recently been there and it does NOT look like crap! Can someone please prove that it doesn’t look like this? Please. Some one gives a RECENT picture of its beauty. Send it. link it anything!
And if it is really so…

I beg of you.

We are Our Wonders: The Legend of Mayon

2008-06-16T18:48:00.002+08:00

Once there was a beautiful princess named Darahang Magayon, which means beautiful lady. Magayon was part of a influential and powerful family that reigned over Bicol.

Due to her stature and beauty, many men such as datus, warriors and princes from all over the world have asked her hand in marriage. However, she fell in love with a handsome warrior prince named Handiong from her rival tribe. The two families tried hard to separate the two from each other and suffered greatly through these many times, and so they decided to flee together. And but to this love, blood was spilled in a war between the two tribes. Because of this the two lovers felt so much pain and guilt that they decided to kill themselves.

When the two were buried, they were buried separately. Moths passed, and one day, Magayon’s tribe saw a huge volcano growing were she was laid to rest. They named it “Bulkang Magayon” as a testimony of Daraga’s beauty and her undying love.

Another version of the Legend is that a beautiful native princess had a possessive uncle named Magayon. Because of this no man dared to court the princess, until one day one warrior stopped caring and was over powered by love and went after the princess. When he reached her, they together prayed to the gods for help. The suddenly a landslide buried the uncle alive, and became Mayon Volcano. It is said when there is an eruption, that it is the uncle’s anger still raging. A third version states that the beautiful lady, Magayon’s lover was killed by her family. Because of this she fled in her anger. The next day, a beautiful, but angry volcano stood where she was last seen.

Now doesn’t this just say so much about our culture? It just shows how we Filipinos are faithful, praying to the gods in time of need, and of course how much the Filipino value and believe love. Our culture was formed with the help of what is around us. After all WE ARE OUR WONDERS!

200th Day Mark

2008-06-14T11:47:00.010+08:00

As of writing, there is only 200 days left until the selection of the 21 candidates, in which we, together hope that one of our deserving candidates make it to the next round. Since our wonders are all in the top 10, I’m sure most us are getting confident, but let’s not get too relaxed or too cocky. Who knows what will happen? So let’s continue to support our wonders. It’s not over until the last second!

*the top countdown is more correct in terms of the Philippine time zone.

Chocolate Hills Seek Internatinal Support

2008-06-13T23:46:00.000+08:00

Chocolate Hills gains 3rd spot in new 7 wonders search

by Rey Anthony Chiu

“Tagbilaran City (13 June) -- Dispersed Boholanos across the globe have organized campaign groups to generate the most number of votes cast for their favorite Chocolate Hills, which has earned a notch up in the new wonders of the world search.

Governor Erico Aumentado said one of his missions upon embarking on a journey to the US is precisely to campaign for more votes for the Chocolate Hills, during Friday's Governor's Reports.

He added as he would invite Boholano organizations to come home for the global gathering of Boholanos, thje Chocolate Hills campaign would get in the way.

Practically in almost every nook of the globe, Boholanos in their own capacity, or via the vast information superhighway is spreading the word about rooting for the Chocolate Hills, support groups based in Bohol said.

The move to hoist the Chocolate Hills in the new seven wonders of the world search gained its initial foothold after Provincial Government officials in Bohol led by Governor Erico Aumentado gathered all internet operators in Tagbilaran City to help in the campaign which Bohol Capitol adopted as its singular mission for tourism promotion.

The move also pushed the chief executive to name Tagbilaran City Mayor Dan Neri Lim to lead the campaign to propel Bohol's wondrous hills to the top of the list. The official campaign head then headed for the US to tap Boholano organizations in attempts to gain the necessary votes.

Tourism stakeholders here, led by Carmen Mayor Manuel Molina also pitched in their campaigns by organizing support groups, asking local tour guides to include in their spiels the support for the Chocolate Hills.”

Read Whole Article http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&fi=p080613.htm&no=72&r=&y=&mo="> Here!

Chocolate Hills New American Based Support Group

2008-06-12T16:36:00.004+08:00

“ Through the immediate support of Carmen Mayor Manuel Molina (representing the local government where the Chocolate Hills is located), to stand as head of the ChocolateHills.US as the Official Support Committee (OSC) for Chocolate Hills, and Bob Galang's skillful handling of the nomination documents and requirements, the Chocolate Hills is now an officially nominated site for the search.

Having assumed the role as Coordinator of ChocolateHills.US, the recognized OSC for Chocolate Hills, Bob Galang, together with Mel Alfarero, called a meeting to create the organizational structure of "ChocolateHills.US", to take on the important function of soliciting more votes and supporters for our nominee to insure a spot in the Top 21 Finalists by the end of December 2008.

In the support group are Mayor Molina, head, Bohol based; Galang, coordinator, asst head; Camilo Alfarero, logistics in-charge; Agnes Culpa Nazareno, secretary-treasurer; Sylvia Dagami Fortich, head communications; Lino Chatto Jr., project manager and Chronicle associate editor Peter Dejaresco, official media coordinator.

The organizational meeting was held at the residence of Dr. & Mrs. Mario Fortich, Jr. on May 16, 2008 forming the Steering Committee composed of spirited and talented people:

This team has volunteered their time and efforts to help the Chololate Hills be known all over the world as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Their main task at hand would be to solicit more supporters for the Chocolate Hills, taking into consideration the rules and restrictions that the New 7 Wonders of Nature organization have imposed.” - from Bohol Chronicle's KIT BAGAIPO

Click to read whole article.

Other Article: ABS-CBN news online’s “Four RP spots in top 10 of 'New Seven Wonders'”

In Depth: Tubbataha Reef

2008-06-11T19:55:00.004+08:00

by obsessing pinoy

Tubbataha Reef is situated in the center Sulu Sea, 181 km south east of Palawan’s Capital, Puerto Princesa City. On December 1993, Tubbataha reef was honored by UNSECO, naming it a World Heritage Site. On August 1998, through proclamation No. 306 Tubbataha reef became a National Marine Park consisting of 33,200 hectares of the awe striking underwater world.

The reef is composed to two shallow atolls, the North and the South atoll, which are separated by a four-mile channel. These two atolls make up the 10,00 hectares of coral reefs. There is also very little permanent land above the sea. It was last noted that the highest was 2m above sea level. The North atoll has shallow lagoons around the reef which at the end is a 50ft. steep drop like a cliff. The south on the other hand is where a lighthouse stands and where birds nest.

Tubbataha reef is also famous for its bio-diversity and is home to many endangered living things. The reef is home to over a thousand species of different creatures some of which are giant jacks, hammerhead sharks, barracudas, manta rays, palm-sized moorish idols, parrot fishes, and moral eels. It has 483 species of fish, 396 species of corals (which is half of the world’s species of corals), 9 species of dolphins and whales and other species of animals. It has been said that the Tubbataha reef rivals the Great Barrier Reef with 300+ coral species and 400+ fish species. Apart from the being a marine sanctuary, it is also a bird sanctuary with 44 species of birds. Tubbataha’s “trademark” is the coral walls where the shallow coral reef abruptly ends giving way to great depths.

Truly Tubbataha Reef is a wonder to behold. We must work together in protecting this wonder.
Tubbataha Reef is a nominee for the The New 7 Wonders of Nature, ranked number 2 out of more than 300 nominees. Truly it deserves to be part of list prestigious list.

For More Pictures click Here

Picture Sources:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/maracleo/2544489439/
http://www.bsactravelclub.co.uk/reports/philippines2.htm

An Email for Tubbataha

2008-06-10T19:48:00.000+08:00

By Jake.

Here’s an email that in I got the other day about Tubbataha Reef’s undertaking. I think it really makes a lot of sense. Expect blogs to answer this call.

Hi Friends,

It is exciting for all of us Filipinos around the world and a matter of great national pride to have Tubbataha Reef nominated to be a candidate to become one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World. It will be the most fabulous thing to happen to the Philippines and for the cause of natural resource and wildlife conservation in the country should Tubbataha be eventually selected among the magic Seven. With our great number of texters and citizens having access online, it would not be impossible for Tubbataha to land into the Top 21.

The campaign for Tubbataha, the solicitation for support and rallying battle cry have been heard far and wide in cyberspace. I have received numerous similar requests for support through different online Filipino groups, have seen numerous solicitations in different Filipino blogs, and all other possible online venues. With the overwhelming publicity and rally for Tubbataha, we will not be far from our goals.

However, I am probably not alone in speculating that most of the Filipinos locally and abroad do not know about Tubbataha, what it is, where it is, what makes it so special that it should merit our collective support. I know Tubbataha is very much well known among us who are into conservation work, or who have special concerns for the place. Because Tubbataha is so remote, inaccessible to the greatest number of Filipinos, grassroots information is very likely limited. There are probably more foreigners who have come across Tubbataha, who have visited Tubbataha than ordinary Filipinos.

My suggestion therefore is for us in the know to help publicize Tubbataha and generate a renewed interest especially among the grassroots (it's from the grassroots that you can generate a million text messages readily). We can do this with publicity campaigns in the different news media outlets, newspapers, TV, radio, etc. Many times, requests for support posted on blogs or online groups are usually not accompanied by sufficient information such as descriptions and photos of Tubbataha. Because I am a biologist, many Filipino friends have asked me if I have heard about Tubbataha and what's all these commotion about voting for Tubbataha. At least they know whom to ask. One inquiry I got actually asked if these campaigns for support for Tubbataha is needed from Filipinos to bolster the territorial claim of the Philippines for Tubbataha Reef against China, Vietnam and Malaysia (apparently referring to and confusing the disputed islands in the South China Sea with Tubbataha).

Some of us can write to newspaper editors, or write feature articles with awe-inspiring underwater photos to submit to national broadsheets, or request to be invited to talk shows, give slide shows to school groups, community groups, etc. In future blogs, perhaps we can include links to some beautiful underwater photos of Tubbataha as well as links to travel write-ups on Tubbataha, etc. Perhaps ask show biz personalities to talk about Tubbataha or to endorse it. Let high profile national officials talk about it on national media (breath a fresh air in the midst of the NBN-ZTE fiasco). All of these efforts will be geared towards the greatest information dissemination about Tubbataha and why it must be preserved, and why it must be recognized as one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and why its inclusion deserve the support of each and every Filipino scattered all around the world.

Should Tubbataha make it into the magic Seven, then it will be a cause for great celebration. But should it fail to make it, then all the information campaign will not have gone to waste because we shall have instilled a renewed national pride in one of our most fabulous underwater natural paradise.

By then, I shall join the call Mabuhay ang Pilipinas, Mabuhay ka Tubbataha!

Deserved .

2008-06-09T16:21:00.001+08:00

by Sunshine.

It’s quite disappointing to hear or read people criticize our wonders of not being of the standard of being included in the list. Most people say our sites are dwarfed and are nothing compared to the more popular wonders of the world. Others say that it would be a joke if we won a slot. No one will take it seriously if we win. They insist that the Filipinos only vote out of false pride and fanaticism.

Our wonders do deserve them. How many times do we have to say that? Our wonders are first class and are able to stand with the best. It doesn’t mean if a wonder if globally famous and becomes and icon means that they’re automatic winners. The goal of this project after all is to find wonders of nature. Not to hail famous sites. I’m not saying that famous sites should not be part of the new 7 wonders of nature. No. I’m trying to say that all wonders are equal. They all have aspects that make them wonders. Like Tubbataha that rivals the Barrier reef in biodiversity and beauty, Mayon Volcano for having its perfect cone that is usually compared with Mt. Fuji, the underground river being the longest in the world and the Chocolate Hills for being the only thing like it on earth. (and FYI, we nominated 10 but only 4 made it. Isn’t that proof that they made sure that sites deserved to be a nominee?)

The Filipinos vote for many reasons. Tourism, benefits in the economy, deserved world recognition and others are among these reasons. But do not say that we vote mainly because of false pride. If you are proud of something worth being proud of should you hide it? Or show the world? When something deserves something shouldn’t you give it to it? And if you think there are other wonders that are a trillion times better that ours, that’s your opinion. Hopefully you can accept a country’s opinion. We don’t force you to think our wonders are great. If your claim is true that there are so many wonders that are better, go ahead-nominate them. Isn’t this the reason for that panel of judges?

There are also some who believe that this will only pollute our wonders. That is up to us. This will only happen if we let it. After all the goal of this is preserve our wonders.

So I leave you with the things we stand on. “We deserve it” and “we are our wonders”

Comparing Wonders: Mayon vs. Fuji

2008-06-06T13:58:00.005+08:00

by obsessing pinoyNote:
This is not to put down other wonders to raise other wonders.

For the past few days Philippines’ Mayon Volcano has been locked at the 10^th spot, followed by Japan’s Mt. Fuji at the 9^th in the rankings for the New 7 Wonders of Nature. To most this simply passes them by without realizing that these two “wonders of nature” have more in common than the average person would know. These two beautiful wonders claim the same characteristic that make them true wonders of the world: the perfect cone.

The Philippines indeed claims its prized Mayon to obtain a true perfect come, while some Japanese only claim Fuji as having an exceptional symmetric cone, as the description in N7W says, but others still hold on to that “perfect cone” description for Fuji.

The perfect cones of these wonders have long been debated. Some say that Mayon has lost its perfect cone due to the last eruption, but witnesses have said that this was not true. Mt. Fuji’s claim has been said to be ruined thanks to its ice cap.

When it comes to beauty and inspiration, it comes to opinion. Mt. Fuji makes up for its disputed cone with the five rivers surrounding it, making the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park-Truly a beautiful site to behold. Mayon on the other hand is surrounded by a lush green landscape and also a National Park. The surroundings of Mayon also include the ruins of the buried town of Cagasawa. Now only the belfry is the only surviving structure above the new surface. And for inspiring only you can decide that.

So where am I getting at? They seem prettey equal right? Pros and cons and all that.--The thing is that it’s up to the people to decide (or in this case a panel of judges). BOTTOM LINE is the Philippine wonders can compete with the more known wonders of the world. Not because one wonder is more known does not mean it is more deserving. All the wonders of nature have their own attributes that make them stunning and beautiful that makes them deserving. Many a times our wonders have been put down saying that they pale in comparison, how can they say that when you look at it, our wonders are as deserving. And no one can say that we do not deserve it.

“we are our wonder”
“our wonders deserve it”

N7W Slogans

2008-06-06T13:39:00.001+08:00

As we were researching on the different “natural wonders” of the world in the N7W website, we found a new feature when you would look at the description of a wonder.
These were “slogans” written by people around the world for that wonder.

Here are some slogans for our wonders.

Chocolate Hills

"Its truly amazing that lots of people now know about the CHOCOLATE HILLS and that it is really a wonder! Spectacular!"

James from UNITED KINGDOM, 05-JUN-2008

Mayon Volcano

"Mayon Volcano will prove to the world that ''there's such thing as perfect.''"
JED from PHILIPPINES, 05-JUN-2008

"The only perfect cone volcano in the world. Let's vote for it!"
deso tan from SINGAPORE, 05-JUN-2008

Tubbatha Reef

"Tubbataha Reef ... Underwater world ... if you see this, you will forget your real world..."
JayG from PHILIPPINES, 05-JUN-2008

It’s great to know what other people from around the world think about of wonders. Surely there will be more slogans to come in the days, weeks and months. Watch out for that!

*sadly not all wonders have slogans yet. Our Underground river is one of those wonders

Home.

2008-06-04T18:43:00.003+08:00

by pinoy na nasubsob sa canada.
read it you'll love it -obsessing pinoy.

Every one of us has probably have been wondering what the Philippines is all about. We are possibly wondering as well why God even put the Philippines into this world. Perhaps even the question “What the hell is that?” comes up into our minds. The Philippines: a country questioned to what it is.

I was wondering the other day how the Philippines is like nowadays. I was faced with the sentence, “I want to go back already...” Sadly, it isn’t possible right now. I moved here to Canada for my parent’s reason that I should have a so-called “better” life. What they meant was probably a better future. A better life for me is being with my family and friends back at home. Yes, there it was. Home was indeed the word I was definitely looking for. I wouldn’t dare think that my future would end up crappy in the Philippines. Why would my future be like that in the first place? I’m surrounded with loving people with a loving neighborhood. That’s enough for me. For my career, I believe I could still be successful wouldn’t I? I mean, I am very thankful for the opportunity of meeting new people and perhaps making friendships that would last a lifetime here. I have no disagreement to that truth. It’s just hard to experience all of these knowing that I am missing my beloved home country and all the people living there.

In my recent report for health studies, I have made a page of what my first language is. I chose Filipino (duh) as I use it at home, house (there is a difference you know) and my Filipino friends here. I came up to the question, “Do you love this language or not?” I paused for a moment. I said to myself that if I really loved my language, why did I leave the country it lived in? Such a sad truth, and it’s really making my conscience act up. Feeling this sad isn’t even the beginning.

My country. my land, and my pride. It is where I was born, first walked, talked, learned to cope, and cry. It is where I first met people who made a difference in my life. It is where I first felt sadness seeing children sell Sampaguita outside of my car window. It is where I first shared a hug when I was depressed. It is my home. Forever will I be a Filipino. Philippines will forever be my home.

We are Our “Wonders”

2008-06-03T00:16:00.001+08:00

by obsessing pinoy.

Each and every one of us has our reasons for voting. Some vote for the tourism benefits, others for the needed and timely unity that the Philippines need, or for whatever reason, but the bottom line is that our sites deserve it. No questions asked.

I was settled for that reason for quite sometime now, until I realized that WE ARE OUR “WONDERS”. Our “wonders” do not only showcase how we’ve given that extra mile in preserving our sites and nature. They are like the New 7 Wonders of the World in a way. The “Wonders of the World” serve as symbols for each nation and tell a story of the people of a country. The same is true with the “wonders of nature”. These natural wonders of ours helped shape our culture as Filipinos. They helped give birth to the Philippines we know today. From the lover’s story of Mayon, the quarrel of the two friends that gave birth to the hills, to the anitos and gods in the subterranean river to countless sea tales from Tubbatha –they are a part of us. They represent us.

So next time you vote, remember, we are our “wonders”

picture from: http://cache.eb.com/eb/image?id=59970&rendTypeId=4

Underground river moving closer to top 7 in online vote

2008-06-01T21:35:00.000+08:00

By Ronnel Domingo
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 01:09:00 06/01/2008

PUERTO PRINCESA -- THE Philippines is gunning for four spots in the New 7 Wonders of Nature online survey in which developing countries, mostly Asian, are dominating because of the voting power of their youthful populations.

The race is creating a stir in this capital city of Palawan as two of the country’s four bets are found in the province -- Tubbataha Reef and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.

“This is very exciting for us here in Palawan,” said Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward S. Hagedorn as he urged Filipinos to cast their votes for the country’s pride.

In various strategic spots in Puerto Princesa, including the entrance to the underground river national park itself, banners and streamers call on people to log on to www.new7wonders.com and vote for Tubbataha Reef and the Subterranean River.

“The subterranean river came in last at No. 275 during the initial nomination and now it is one rank shy of being in the top 7,” said Hagedorn.

As of the May 31 tally, Tubbataha and the underground river ranked third and eighth, respectively, in the ongoing search for the world’s seven most outstanding natural environments.

In the choice list of 77 natural wonders spread across the world, the other two Philippine nominees, the Chocolate Hills of Bohol and Mayon Volcano in Albay, ranked 5th and 11th, respectively.

Hagedorn said the phenomenal rise in the global popularity of the Palawan attractions had aroused among the province’s residents a greater sense of protectiveness over their natural resources.

He said the people were now seeing for themselves the result of the local leadership’s painstaking efforts to promote and develop eco-tourism

read on: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080601-140018/Underground-river-moving-closer-to-top-7-in-online-vote

Legazpi Mayor Calls for Support for Mayon

2008-05-30T22:06:00.001+08:00

Worldwide votes for Mayon Volcano, said to have the world's most perfect cone, for consideration in the "New7 Wonders of the World" list, is being solicited by Legazpi City Mayor Noel Rosal.

"I am rallying Filipinos anywhere in the world to cast their votes for this ongoing search, said the Mayor of the Bicol region's prime city.

Foreigners who love the Philippines can also vote and "each vote will be considered a lifetime token of charity for the relief and comfort of the yet to recover victims of disasters brought on by this natural wonder," said Rosal.

Rosal said winning a slot in "7Wonders" would boost the local tourism industry and redound to more employment, better livelihood and business opportunities, infrastructure development and enhanced government services for people displaced by the calamities.

"I am optimistic Mayon Volcano would make it to the finals. The city government is launching as soon as possible a massive awareness campaign in the locality and all over the country as well as reach out to Filipinos abroad for their votes," Rosal told reporters.

http://www.bayanihan.org/article.php/20080324171819609

Philippine Candidates are Unstoppable

2008-05-27T19:55:00.002+08:00

11-10-7-4
The past few days have been interesting when talking about the rankings in New 7 Wonders of Nature . Mayon Volcano picked up where it was last left. Mayon was back to its huge leaps forward as it did before it was de-listed. After a few days it has caught up with her brother candidates. It is now placing at the 11th spot. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park on the other hand, though has not moved up in awhile, has withstand its place even though it seems that other candidates are just about it takes its place. The Chocolate Hills & Tubbataha Reef have made great headway in this short timeline. They place 6th & 4th respectively. Considering how hard it is to move in the top 10, this is really great.

There is still over 200+ days in this first round, yet I think it’s ok to say that we have completed our goal and secured their spot in the top 77. Though it’s too early to really tell what will happen, I think we’re in a good position. But don’t let this fool you! We must keep spreading the word a supporting our candidates. Great Job, Filipinos!

“Because We Deserve it”

GMA: Support Mayon

2008-05-25T20:01:00.002+08:00

Tagalog News: Pagboto sa Mayon Volcano para sa "Seven Wonders of the World" hiniling ni PGMA

by Eden Z. Nebrija

Legazpi City (12 May) -- Hiniling ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo kay Albay Governor Joey Salceda na paigtingin ang pangangampanya para iboto ang ang world-famous Mayon Volcano bilang isa sa world's new seven wonders.

Ang kahilingang ito ay ipinaabot ng Pangulo kay Salceda sa kanyang pagbisita sa lalawigan ng Albay kamakailan. Ang turismo ay may malaking naitutulong sa economic development ng isang lalawigan kaya't i-promote nating ang turismo ng Albay lalong-lalo na ang pagboto sa Mayon Volcano -ang original tourism attraction ng Bicol na mapabilang sa seven wonders of the world.

Upang iboto ang Mayon Volcano bisitahin lamang ang www.new7wonders.com

At dahil kailangang bomoto ng pito (in the list of choices), hinikayat din ng Pangulo ang mga taga Albay na iboto rin ang Tubattah Reef ng Palawan, Chocolate Hills ng Bohol at ang Puerto Princesa Underground River. (PIA 12

Big Brother Endorses Underground River

2008-05-24T17:44:00.007+08:00

-Thanks to Gian for the Blog idea & information.

This week the housmates of Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus went to Puerto Princesa for a jungle experience. On Thursday that week, the housemates’ visited Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park . Friday night on Primetime the episode was showed.

After revealing that the housemates were going to the underground river, Toni introduced Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward Hagedorn to give information on the site. Mayor Ed gave shared some information about this wonderful site. Including how other sites started their campaign last year, yet the underground river on started last month yet is now in the 10th spot. Later on he asked for the support of the Filipinos to vote for this site as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. After, Toni quickly added on what Mayor Ed had mentioned and gave the URL in which the public may go to and vote. A short commercial followed.

I just wished they mentioned the other sites too.

Click to Here
for pictures and the commercial (the last video) and Here
to watch the housemates’ experience.

Different Sectors Join in Campaign

2008-05-23T17:43:00.007+08:00

Philippines Goes All Out for its Candidates

It has only been a few months since the New 7 Wonders of Nature started to gained recognition and support from the Filipinos. However, in these past few months many sectors of the Philippines have joined together to support it’s candidates and push the deserving candidates one step closer to becoming one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Be it Politicians, businessmen, bloggers, media, OFWs or whoever, each have made significant steps that boosts our candidates to the top.

Business Sector:
Businessmen in the Philippines and around the world have contributed money and free advertising in call for support for the Philippines. The money they have donated usually goes to paid advertisements in the Philippines, especially local radio. Some businesses have also put up voting “precincts” just for voting for the candidates. One of which is Ka Lui Restaurant, owned by Lui Oliva in Palawan. Another noticeable contribution is Cebu Pasific, an airliner, that gave its full support and even put a link in it’s website to vote, but this came with a warning. Other businesses have also done the same and as well as other means of supporting our candidates.

People Online:
It has been noticed that a big part of the support comes from people online. Other than being the main voters, they are the ones that spread the message about this all through out the net, making it more popular than ever. Just through one blog 10 other could pass it on to hundreds. Blos, Multiply, Xanga and people on friendster have joined in the crusade.

Media:
Though the media has not given as much attention as we would like, they have made the most influential contribution. From the 6pm news, TV programs who dedicated an episode for it (ANC’s Crossroads & The Correspondents), articles in both newspapers & websites, pictures in the papers, or even on the radio, some even placing links in their official websites to the new 7 wonders website. Though usually we may not see or hear these in Manila, but go to Palawan for example, you’re sure to notice one. Truly the media is the best way of getting people involved.

Gov. and Politicians:
Of course, we must give thanks to the DOT for nominating our sites, and supporting them all the way. I hear the DOT might set funds for the advertisements and other means of support. It also seems that almost all levels of the government support this cause, from the provincial boards, mayors, governors, congressmen, senator Pia, & her committee and even the President. They all have called for the support for our candidates.

Private Sector:
Even the private sector is joining in. Some of them are even putting up voting precincts. Also Filipino groups from Canada, California, Florida, Chicago, Texas, New York, the Middle East, Asia and even in European have joined together to spread the news.

Others:
The Loboc Children's Choir of Bohol were given three sets of shirts campaigning the Philippine sites which they wore when they went on tour in US and Canada.
The Boy Scouts of the Philippines have pledged two million votes through out the year.

Though each of us may have our own reasons for voting our wonders, let us remember that we may only attain the coveted title if we work together. There is still time for us to unite as one, no matter your origin, beliefs, or anything, together we can make this country great, and let us not forget that no matter what the reason we vote-we deserve it.

**Check the Archives for detailed blogs on the different sectors’ contribution

Mayon Volcano Makes a Comeback!

2008-05-21T13:31:00.002+08:00

After more than a month long, Mayon Volcano is once again a nominee in the search for the New 7 Wonders of Nature. It is currently ranked 35^th in the list of the top 77 contenders. It’s good to know that Mayon was not completely forgotten.

Now we must continue to support Mayon’s place in the top 77, in order to secure its chance of ,making it part of the short list of 21.

Finally!

On Other Candidates, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River has now reached the 10th spot, Chocolate Hills ranks 9th, and Tubbataha Reef is 7th as of 21-MAY-2008 04:00 GMT.

On ANC’s Crossroads

2008-05-18T23:53:00.000+08:00

Remember thatblog about N7W on ANC’s cross roads?

Well here’s a part of it. This is was one of the things that got me[obsessing pinoy] inspired about this.

Just the first 10 minutes say a lot.

GMA & Cong. Chatto's Campaign for chocolate hills

2008-05-18T10:31:00.001+08:00

Cong. Chatto

GMA's Campaign on radio station DYRD

Bloggers, Webmasters Help in Campaign

2008-05-17T23:00:00.001+08:00

"SEOs, bloggers and webmasters all over the Philippines have joined the campaign for a vote to 4 of the best bets of the country to the new 7 wonders of the world listing. The biggest part of the pie must be coming from the bloggers all over the Philippines who are joining their forces in some way by helping the entries, Chocolate Hills, Mayon Volcano, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park and the best bet which is the Tubbataha Reef become widespread to all the internet users all over the country and urging them to vote for the 4 best bets."

Read Whole Article Here!

Remember Mayon?

2008-05-17T22:35:00.001+08:00

Well, it seems that The President urging Bicolanos gave us false hope that our Mayon Volcano will make it’s come back. I really think it needs a support group to make it an official candidate, like the Tubbataha & Choco Hills incident. We’ve tried to contact them by emailing them through the email given by the Albay Official website, but no luck. So I Hope it does come back.

If there are any Bicolanos reading this,please help! Please inform your local government, please do something.

Boy Scouts pledging 2M votes

2008-05-16T17:38:00.004+08:00

Cebu Daily News

The Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) has pledged two million votes to the Philippines’ nominees in the online global search for the New Seven Wonders of the World.

J. Rizal C. Pangilinan, BSP secretary general, issued a memorandum to the movement’s 109 local councils and 10 regions to vote for the Philippine nominees: Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, Albay’s Mayon Volcano and the Tubbataha Reef.

Of the three nominees, only Palawan’s Tubbataha Reef remains as of press time.

The search is organized by the New Seven Wonders Foundation, a non-profit organization.

Boholanons were shocked when the Chocolate Hills was dropped recently from the list of nominees.

Bohol Gov. Erico Aumentado wrote to contest organizers on April 22 to seek urgent reconsideration and to have the Chocolate Hills included in the contest.

Boholanons are still waiting for a reply.

Peter Dejaresco, chairman of the Bohol Provincial Tourism Council (PTC), said they recently found out the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is not part of the search as reported earlier and it also sent a letter of inquiry to the NGO to asking about the Chocolate Hills’ delisting.

The boy scouts or other members of the public can vote until Dec. 31 after which the top 77 nominees will be submitted to a panel that will choose 21 finalists by January 2009.

A second round of voting for the 21 finalists will then follow until the end of 2009. The top seven nominees will be declared the “New Seven Wonders of Nature” by 2010. /Correspondent Marian Z. Codilla

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/news/view_article.php?article_id=132606

Illegal promo for Choco Hills Warned

2008-05-13T22:53:00.006+08:00

By KIT BAGAIPO
Bohol Chronicles.

"A support group of the global search for the world's New 7 Wonders of Nature is warning private and commercial firms from engaging in a campaign for Chocolate Hills without sanction from the organizers.

Unauthorized promotions using the New 7 Wonders campaign would cause in another disqualification of Bohol's nominee, the world-renowned hills.

Dr. Oscar Galang, lead organizer for the Chocolate Hills Support Committee based in the United States, relayed to the Chronicle the official rules concerning private and commercial companies supporting nominees to the New 7 Wonders tilt.

Galang cautioned business groups to observe the rules as an airline company is currently carrying the Chocolate Hills campaign by painting it on their aircrafts that are serving international flights."

Read Full Story Here

Arroyo to Bicolanos 2

2008-05-12T17:46:00.002+08:00

I SMELL A MAYON COME BACK SOON.

"The President has also called on the Bicolanos to lead the campaign to nominate and vote the world-famous Mayon Volcano for the new batch of the Seven Wonders of the World.

"Kaya Joey (Albay Governor Jose Salceda), magkampanya naman tayo para iboto yung Mayon Volcano as one of the world's new seven wonders. Dapat lahat ng mga taga-Albay, lahat ng mga taga-Bicol ay bomoto sa www.new7wonders.com para sa Mayon Volcano," the President urged the Albay residents.

She added: "Pero dahil kailangan bomoto kayo sa pito (in the list of choices), huwag niyong kalilimutan, bomoto rin kayo sa Tubattaha Reef (in Palawan), sa Chocolate Hills (in Bohol), at saka sa Puerto Princesa Underground River."

Addressing a town fiesta in Albay -- home of the world-famous Mayon Volcano – the President called on the Bicolanos to lead the campaign for their hometown's tourist attraction to join the new batch of the Seven Wonders of the World.

The Office of the Press Secretary (OPS) website, www.news.ops.gov.ph, has also put a link to the New7Wonders website for Filipinos to vote and see rankings of the country's nominated wonders."

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&fi=p080512.htm&no=23&r=&y=&mo=

Arroyo to Bicolanos: Vote for Mayon in new 7 wonders of nature

2008-05-12T13:32:00.002+08:00

05/06/2008 | 08:46 PM

MANILA, Philippines - President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Tuesday urged Bicolanos to vote for Mayon Volcano so that it will be included in the new seven wonders of nature.

The President made the appeal in a speech delivered at the town fiesta of Oas in Albay.

She said before Donsol town in Sorsogon became famous for being the sanctuary of the whalesharks, Mayon Volcano was already a famous tourist site for its perfect cone.

Aside from Mayon Volcano, famous internationally for its perfect cone, President Arroyo also urged Filipinos to vote for Tubbataha Reef and the Underground River in Palawan, and the Chocolate Hills in Bohol.

As of Tuesday night, Tubbataha Reef has fallen in the live ranking from number seven to number eight, to be replaced by Cocos Island in Costa Rica.

Chocolate Hills, meanwhile, now ranks number nine and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean Park is now at number 21, after languishing at number 81.

Filipinos could cast their votes through the website of the new seven wonders of nature. - GMANews.TV
http://www.gmanews.tv/story/93651/Arroyo-to-Bicolanos-Vote-for-Mayon-in-new-7-wonders-of-nature
_________________________________________________________________

Hmm...It seems that our President was NOT informed that Mayon Volcano was already a candidate before. Hopefully,the Bicolanos will move for the return of Mayon. Maybe if Mayon has missing requirements, hopefully this will pave it's way to get back on the list.

Filipinos urged: Vote for tourist spots online

2008-05-12T13:21:00.000+08:00

By Ronnel Domingo
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 03:24:00 05/11/2008

THE DEPARTMENT of Tourism has called on local governments, investors and the public to help meet the country’s goal to bring in five million visitors in 2010 by participating in an online survey that seeks to name the “New Seven Wonders of Nature.”

Three Philippine destinations are among 77 tourist spots worldwide vying to make it to the list of the top seven wonders—Tubbataha Reef, Chocolate Hills and Puerto Princesa’s underground river.

These local tourist drawers so far rank eighth, ninth and 20th, respectively in the online survey.

In a statement, Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said that LGUs, communities and the private sector should view the survey as a springboard for promoting ecotourism destinations in the country.

“I encourage everyone to cast their vote since this will help promote the destinations,” Durano said. “This should be further augmented with efforts that put forward our ecotourism sites and protect our environment.”

He said tourism authorities and private tourism enterprises can collaborate on adapting earth-friendly business practices, recycling and waste disposal management, educating visitors on responsible tourist behavior and other activities.

“The DOT joins other groups in the hope of seeing at least one of the Philippine nominees in the seven wonders of nature,” he added. “But we also should bear in mind the greater challenge of being good stewards (to these natural havens).”

The online poll, a search for the world’s seven most outstanding natural environments, is sponsored by the New7Wonders Foundation, a non-profit organization based in Switzerland that was also behind the online search for the New Seven Wonders of the World.

According to the foundation, the 77 official nominees—which topped an initial batch of more than 200—would be eligible for consideration by the New7Wonders of Nature panel of experts for inclusion in the group of 21 finalist candidates.

Voting is until Dec. 31 after which the panel would name the 21 finalists, from which another round of online voting would determine the final seven.

Tourism Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque Jr., who is in charge of planning and promotions, said the inclusion of three Philippine locales in the Top 77 helped raise awareness among more people worldwide considering the popularity of the poll.

“But more than awareness, we’re concerned with conversion—that people actually do something (to care for the natural wonders),” Jarque said.

He said the DOT and the Congressional committee on tourism were convinced that the three sites’ being in the running would help lawmakers and investors see the country positively and spur major tourism initiatives on a nationwide scale.

Tubbataha Dreams

2008-05-05T20:09:00.000+08:00

Tubbataha Dreams
By Tristan Choa
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 10:34am (Mla time) 05/01/2008

CAN WE MAKE IT happen? Can Tubbataha – our very own natural wonder— be recognized as one of the seven new wonders of nature around the world?

Tubbataha is a reef ecosystem made up of two atolls that lie on the Cagayan Ridge 150 km southeast of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and 130 km southwest of Cagayancillo, the municipality to which Tubbataha belongs. Together, these two dots in the middle of the Sulu Sea form the reef core, covering more than 30,000 hectares.

The Tubbataha reefs lie at the heart of the immense biodiversity found in the Coral Triangle, consisting of the Sulu Sea and the Sulawesi Sea and bordered by the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia.

This triangle is home to the richest and most diverse marine ecosystem in the world, with numerous species of fish, algae, sea grass, sea birds, whales and dolphins. The triangle gets its name from the roughly 450 species of coral found in these seas, compared to about 60 for the entire Caribbean.

Initially, Tubbataha’s isolation was its greatest protection. Its inaccessibility allowed it to flourish and develop an ecosystem where the largest fish (the whale shark) and the tiniest organism (plankton), depended on each other for survival. The lush life it supported would become both boon and bane for Tubbataha as it attracted dynamite and cyanide fishing, illegal poachers and divers. Meanwhile, another group merely wanted to study its underwater paradise and preserve it.

As environment advocate and former US Vice president Al Gore put it, “The struggle to save the global environment is in one way much more difficult... for this time, the war is with ourselves. We are the enemy, just as we have only ourselves as allies.” The struggle between resource users and conservationists has begun.

In 1988, then President Corazon Aquino declared Tubbataha a National Marine Park in an effort to protect the reef and its fish population from further decline. The proclamation expanded the protected area to more than 90,000 hectares. By the ’90s, the unique wonder of Tubbataha had become internationally known. In 1993, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, the only purely marine World Heritage site in Southeast Asia today.

Despite the recognition, some sectors could not understand why Tubbataha needed extra measures to keep it protected. To Cagayanons, making the reef off-limits to fishing deprived them of a means of livelihood. By the same token, Palaweños, after over-fishing the waters off Eastern Palawan, felt they had lost an alternative fishing ground. Poachers couldn’t see beyond immediate dollars and cents, while divers were unaware of the full impact of their presence. Meanwhile the answers that researchers and scientists had coaxed out of the waters were no match for the public’s short attention span for ecosystems it couldn’t see.

But saving Tubbataha is essential on many fronts. Ecologically, it needs to be saved if only to better understand the complex relationships in the ecosystems it supports and the impact this has on fish stocks in the surrounding seas. Not many fishers understand that Tubbataha acts as a nursery for both coral and fish larvae carried along by currents, thereby seeding fishing grounds in surrounding waters and providing a sustainable source of livelihood for them.

Politically, Tubbataha has a strategic role in assuring food security in the region. Scientifically, the corals are home to a diversity of plants and sea life, which are potential sources of medicine or chemicals yet unknown. The continuing destruction of the reefs would pre-empt these future discoveries.

Recreationally, preserving the reefs enhances Tubbataha’s reputation as a divers’ paradise. Aside from tourist income, access fees charged to divers are a substantial part of the budget used to hire, train and equip park ranger teams and fund the operations of the office tasked with protecting the reef and implementing a sustainable management plan for the park.

With funding in short supply, individuals with corporate resources behind them have thankfully pitched in. One example is Ton Concepcion, president of Concepcion Durables, Inc. A passionate diver, Concepcion organized the first Condura Race last March to generate awareness of Tubbataha’s plight. More than 1,500 people joined the fun run to raise funds for this cause. Buoyed by the project’s success, Concepcion is considering making the run an annual event. He’s also looking into the possibility of giving a percentage of the sale of every Condura refrigeration unit to the Tubbataha cause as a sustainable source of additional funding for park operations.

Another corporate supporter is Petron Corporation which, according to Lory Tan of the World Wildlife Fund, now provides funding support to establish more livelihood activity in Cagayancillo. A n annual summer fellowship for college graduates and Cagayancillo residents started just this April, aimed at building local capacity and structures that will boost economic activity and contribute to more effective protection of the national park. Petron also pledged to fund a state-of-the-art mooring system for the park that will help improve tourism standards and boat safety, while drastically reducing coral damage.

The effort to save Tubbataha is a work-in-progress. So much still needs to be done, foremost of which are better ranger facilities and enforcement equipment, continuous education campaigns and funds to sustain these efforts. It is gratifying to see multiple stakeholders taking up the fight. There are individuals, corporations, government agencies, non-government organizations and foreign governments doing their part. Still, it is not enough. It’s time to get a key team member to help out: YOU.

Every Filipino should get involved in the effort to protect our natural heritage. One way is to get involved in the online campaign to determine, by global popular vote, the New Seven Wonders of Nature (www.new7wonders.com)

Tubbataha Reef is one of the nominees. Make it a winner by going online and voting for it. Deadline for online voting is Dec. 31, 2008. While we each only have one vote, collectively our votes give voice to our pride as a people. Let us tell the world about the Tubbataha Reef. Let this be our legacy to future generations.

N7W Philippines on ANC's Crossroads

2008-05-03T00:27:00.002+08:00

“Probably we’ll be there [Philippines] in 2009 visiting for the world tour to see at least one of these sites. Well because you see they’re unstoppable.” This was the line that Tia B. Viering, head of communications from the New 7 Wonders foundation, said that really caught my attention when I was watching Crossroads at ANC that featured The Philippines’ candidates in the race to be the New 7 Wonders of Nature. They had 3 guests over, plus having Ms. Viering on the phone. Now, I’m not going to narrate the whole episode, rather share some of the important points during the show. Replay on Mon. at 1pm and at Sat. 3pm, Channel 27 at Sky cable.

First point, when the guests where asked what did they think of UNESCO’s stand on the new 7 wonders of nature, saying that it was only chosen by a limited group of people thus making it private etc. The guests said that it would not change their outlook unto it. They compared it to an award saying that it wouldn’t be wrong if we go another award. But the thing that struck me most was when the guest said that it didn’t really matter, because what really matters is to proclaim to the world that we are here, and we are excellent.

When Ms. Viering called, the host asked if the founder Bernard Weber has ever stepped in the Philippines. She said that for a fact she did not know, and said she’d get back on us on that question. Somewhere during the conversation, the host mentioned them possibly coming to the Philippines some time. She said that she would definitely go especially if Mr. Weber does. In her words “Where he goes, I go”. At that time she said that statement that made my eyes glisten with joy. She said as if she was so sure that they would come here to the Philippines for the world tour, when the 21 sites are visited, and added that our candidates were “unstoppable” This just gave me the confidence to truly believe that we can make it into the final list of 21.

In addition it seemed that she and the other guests noticed how the Filipinos were excited on the new 7 wonders of nature. Praising even the Filipino groups abroad, and how they support the Philippines. It seems that Ms. Viering had a good impression unto us and our determination to win. After all the Boholanos did submit a long letter asking what happened to the Chocolate Hills before. This will surely give us a few points, knowing that the Filipino people truly support their wonders.

During the comments and suggestions portion, the host read out some of the viewer’s reactions. The first one was a question about Mayon Volcano, on how it was gone. The guest (who is from the DOT) appeared as if he didn’t even know that Mayon was even a candidate to begin with, so hopefully, thanks to a viewer, maybe the DOT will look into this, thus having Mayon back. (Oh and if there are any Bicolanos out there, please tell your governor or mayor or who ever to do something)

Another during the same portion was about the Media and commercials. The viewer asked why the media didn’t feature this rather than corruption and politicking all the time. The host quickly said “this is why we’re doing this” On commercials, someone asked why not have commercials especially on CNN and such, and apparently we do in Japan, but as the guest mentioned, sadly we have no funds for this.

“It’s a people power”

*note: the quotes from the guests on the show may not be accurate*

Our Phil Makes it on Yahoo's First Page in Search

2008-04-30T21:32:00.003+08:00

ON Wednesday, April 30, at around 9:30, as I did my daily search in Google on the Philippines and N7W, sad to say that I found nothing new, the same old posts and sites. Due to this, I decided to search on Yahoo. To my surprise Our Philippines was number 2, when the search word you use is "philippines new wonders nature" A few weeks ago, I found Kessen's blog that also mentioned us in one of this blog posts
Kessen's blog post: http://kessenism.blogspot.com/2008/04/new-7-wonders-of-nature-updates.html

I truly thank everyone for supporting this blog. Knowing that people actually read this blog makes us feel that we're actually helping,informing etc. We really want to send the message out on what ever project we have in store, especially now that n7w Phil requires the unity of the whole nation. So truly truly truly THANK YOU. We are for our mother Philippines, and not for our selves.

Spread the word. The Philippines' stand starts now.

Cebu Pacific Backs Up Phil in N7W

2008-04-30T17:39:00.002+08:00

RP entries to 7 wonders backed

Cebu Pacific, the Gokongwei-owned domestic airline, is pushing for the inclusion of three Philippine tourist spots in the current online search for “Seven Wonders of Nature.”

The airline has created a link in its Web site to the Seven Wonders of Nature voting site, www.new7wonders.com so that Filipinos worldwide can easily cast their votes for the Philippine entries: the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, and the Tubbataha Reef and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (Underground River), both in Palawan.

Candice Iyog, the airline vice president for marketing and product, said, “This is in support of the government’s efforts to promote our country in the global market. Just by joining this search, we are making the world aware of the natural wonders our country has to offer.”

Cebu Pacific will also launch an e-mail blast endorsing the Philippine natural wonders to its database.

“As the no. 1 e-commerce Web site in the country, we hope we can help invite all the Filipinos to go online, vote and make the Philippines part of the Seven Wonders of Nature because this is something we should be very proud of. Let’s all do our part in making this happen,” Iyog emphasized.

As of yesterday’s Live Top 77 ranking at www.new7wonders.com, Tubbataha Reef is ranked no.8 and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is at no. 53. Chocolate Hills is below the top 77 cut-off mark.

“With this search, we hope to entice more foreign and local tourists to come see the Philippines’ natural wonders and contribute to the development of our tourism industry,” Iyog said

http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=politics5_april30_2008

Chocolate Hills Makes a Come Back!

2008-04-29T12:09:00.002+08:00

ON the last update (28-APR-2008 16:00 GMT), our beloved Chocolate Hills had finally made it’s come back. Being lost for quiet sometime and as anticipation grew; finally our long wait is over. As of now it is ranked 9^{th ,}followed by Tubbataha at 8^th place, and our subterranean river at 48^th(mind that only our candidate continues to go up despite the 2 candidates popping up) . It’ time vote for it. This is Truly good news for everyone, especially the Boholanos. *read the previous blog for the story*

(8)

PHILIPPINES - Asia

()

PHILIPPINES - Asia

47.

(44)

Belize Barrier Reef, Reef

BELIZE - North America

Vote

48.

(57)

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

PHILIPPINES - Asia

Vote

49.

(46)

Flaming Cliffs, Rock Formation

MONGOLIA - Asia

It’s great how the Boholanos especially the local government with the DOT united for the sake of The Chocolate Hills, imagine the whole Philippines doing so…
So now let’s continue to support our candidates.
Now, we search for Mayon…

Special thanks to The Bohol Chronicles

Bohol formalizes bid on Choco Hills

2008-04-28T00:12:00.002+08:00

The provincial government officially confirms the nomination for the Chocolate Hills to be included in the list of nominees in the global search for the New 7 Wonders of Nature (N7W).

Gov. Erico B. Aumentado filed the formal nomination to the New 7 Wonders of Nature, a non-government organization that launched the search to

determine sites which would qualify to vie for the world's top 7 wonders of nature.

The action of the governor came following the reported de-listing of the Chocolate Hills, not just in the ranking of the top 7, but from the general list of nominees.

The de-listing surprised the Boholanos from all over the world since the Chocolate Hills was already ranked "No. 6" before it was de-listed from the list of nominees early last week.

The de-listing united the Boholanos worldwide in demanding an explanation from the sponsoring group.

Rep. Edgar Chatto who is the chairman of the House committee on tourism made official queries at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Manila regarding the matter.

UNESCO Ambassador Preciosa Soliven informed the solon that the global search was not initiated by UNESCO. However, the said NGO was initiating the search in line with UNESCO's campaign as part of its advocacy.

DOT Secretary Ace Durano, Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque and Berna Bunesoseco, head of DOT team Europe made the query on Chocolate Hill's sudden delisting. They were informed that formal nomination has to be made with the NGO.

City Mayor Dan Lim who was designated by the governor to spearhead the campaign hit the ground through the Loboc Children's Choir members who are now in the United States and Canada. Three sets of "Chocolate Hills" campaign shirts were given to the choir members who were asked to wear them wherever they go during the US-Canada stint. Lim said the city government is ready to release P500,000 to finance the saturation of information campaign through billboards and other advertising campaign, both here and abroad.

GLOBAL CONCERNS

Boholanos around the world who were shocked to learn about the de-listing of Chocolate Hills from the N7W nominees immediately communicated through email reaching to other Filipino groups in the US, Europe, Middle East and Asia.

It was through Bob Galang, a native of Carmen town and now residing in the US, that the organizers of the N7W search gave the procedure for the reinstatement of Chocolate Hills in the rankings.

Nadja Rahal of N7W Foundation asked for the setting up of an Official Support Committee (OSC) for Chocolate Hills to be back in the campaign.

Galang coordinated with Carmen Mayor Manuel Molina to sign and submit the OSC document to the N7W Foundation.

In an email message forwarded to PTC chair Peter Dejaresco, Galang said "phone lines and emails [of the Boholano community abroad] are enormously busy inquiring when they could cast their votes for Chocolate Hills."

In another email to Rahal, Galang said that Boholanos all over the world are "excited" to support the Chocolate Hills campaign. "I don't want that momentum to die down in the midst of this very crucial campaign to put the Chocolate Hills in the Magic 7," he said.

Large Filipino communities throughout California, Florida, Chicago, Texas, New York and even in European cities have already pledged to spread the word regarding the campaign.

UNESCO's STATEMENT

In a statement, UNESCO said it was in fact repeatedly "invited to support" the search posted and voted on the internet but it chose "not to collaborate" with the foundation.

Ambassador Soliven, UNESCO secretary-general and executive director of the UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines, quoted the statement, which was issued by the UNESCO Headquarters, in her letter replying Rep. Chatto's query on the search.

The N7W foundation, established by Swiss-born Canadian filmmaker Bernard Weber, has no explanation as of presstime on Chocolate Hills' delisting not just from the running ranking of the elite seven but from the list of all nominees.

"The list of the 'New 7 Wonders of Nature' will be the result of a private undertaking, reflecting only the opinions of those with access to the Internet and not the entire world," Soliven quoted the UNESCO Headquarters.

She said UNESCO "is not at all in the position to relate with the New 7 Wonders Foundation."

Provincial Board Members Ester Corazon Galbreath, Sangguniang Panlalawigan chair of committee on tourism, had the issue raised in the presentation here Wednesday of the June-scheduled 6th Philippine Business Mission to Japan.

The presentation, attended by Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Director Patria Aurora Roa, was intended to ready the mission, which will market Philippine tourism.

Marinette Reyes, a UNESCO staff, told Chatto that incumbent UNESCO Director General Koichico Matsuura himself confirmed the organization's non-involvement in the foundation's undertaking.

Soliven's letter to Chatto obviously pointed to the NGO as culpable itself.

"In fact, in our research, the foundation does not seem to encourage feedback and inquiries as they do not have any contact details unless your concern is a business partnership," the ambassador wrote.

Philippine Congress' tourism committee was not informed in any manner beforehand of the search that was to be launched by the NGO based in Zurich, Switzerland.

Together with Weber, former UNESCO Director General Federico Mayon privately initiated the search, according to UNESCO.

Soliven appreciated the Boholanos campaign to raise awareness for the preservation of Bohol's cultural and natural heritage.

In his letter to Chatto, Soliven quoted the statement of the UNESCO Headquarters which read:

"This campaign was launched in 2000 as a private initiative by Bernard Weber, the idea being to encourage citizens around the world to select seven new wonders of the world by popular vote. Although UNESCO was invited to support this project on several occasions, the Organization decided not to collaborate with Mr. Weber.

"UNESCO's objective and mandate is to assist countries in identifying, protecting and preserving World Heritage. Acknowledging the sentimental or emblematic value of sites and inscribing them on a new list is not enough. Scientific criteria must be defined, the quality of candidates evaluated and legislative and management frameworks set up.

The relevant authorities must also demonstrate commitment to these frameworks as well as to permanently monitor the state of conservation sites. The task is one of technical conservation and political persuasion. There is also a clear educational role to the site's inherent value, the threats they face and what must be done to prevent their loss.

"There is no comparison between Mr. Weber's mediatised campaign and the scientific and educational work resulting from the inscription of sites on UNESCO's World Heritage List. The list of the '7 New Wonders of the world' will be the result of a private undertaking, reflecting only the opinions of those with access to the Internet and the entire world. This initiative cannot, in any significant and sustainable manner, contribute to the preservation of sites elected by this public."

CHOCO HILLS AS WORLD HERITAGE

Convinced of Chocolate Hills geological value and sympathetic to the cause of the Boholanos, the UNESCO secretary-general presented a chance for the rare Bohol spot declared as a world heritage.

Soliven told Chatto that "should you be interested in UNESCO's World Heritage Programme, kindly inform us so we can collaborate in pursuing the nomination process of the Chocolate Hills' inclusion to the World Heritage List, which is in our jurisdiction."

BOY SCOUTS 2M VOTES

Meanwhile, the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) has pledged two million votes to the Chocolate Hills and the two other Philippine sites nominated in the online global search.

J. Rizal C. Pangilinan, BSP secretary general, issued a memorandum to the movement's 109 local councils and 10 regions to vote for the Bohol's Chocolate Hills, the Tubbataha Reef and the Underground River in Palawan. (With reports from Ven Arigo)

http://www.boholchronicle.com/2008/apr/27/front1.htm

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park Enters the Top 77

2008-04-26T09:47:00.001+08:00

Finally, our newest candidate: The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park has finally made in into the Top 77 in the New 7 Wonders of Nature’s first round of voting. Thus it is now eligible to be part of the short list of 21 that we will be once voted upon to determine the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

The journey that this candidate faced reminds many of Mayon’s leaps when it was still on the list. This candidate too jumped from one spot to another. I remember when it was new and was on the 295^th place. It jumped drastically update. In fact with every update it would climb up, no questions asked. When It reached 82^nd place most believed that it would soon reach the 77^th mark. Though on April 25, 2008, it missed it by just one place, landing on the 78^th place, but 25-APR-2008 22:00 GMT finally on it landed on the spot.

Now that it reached this milestone, we must remember to not let out guard down. After all we must cement its place in the top 77. Considering it’s not very high up in the ranking, it is still very vulnerable to be affected by the ever changing rankings. We must continue spreading the word and encouraging people to vote. Hopefully, it will not completely follow in Mayon’s footsteps of disappearing when it reaches the top 20. I do Hope the DOT or the Palawan officials fix this before it’s too late.

To everyone who supported, Thank You Very Much. Team Philippines salutes you all, for with out everyone working together, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park could still be up there in the 200s area. Great Job to everyone! We’re One step closer to engraving the Philippines in history. We start letting the world about us, the Philipines, the Filipinos, and that starts now! Mabuhay!

Choco Hills Dropped? ; Boholanos Outraged!

2008-04-25T20:38:00.002+08:00

Choco Hills removed from "wonders" tilt
By KIT BAGAIPO- BOHOL CHRONICLES

Is the world-famous Chocolate Hills eliminated from the official contenders of the global search for the New 7 Wonders of Nature?

The same question befuddled Boholanos around the world as they discovered Monday that Chocolate Hills was dislodged from 6th place on the online rankings of the New7Wonders website and could nowhere be found in the Top 77 of the internet polling.

The Chocolate Hills have consistently occupied the top 10 for the past weeks and had been in the top 20 for the past two months.

In fact, the good showing of the world-famous tourist site in the global search prompted the Bohol officialdom, the media, multi-sectoral groups and individuals to launch a massive campaign for votes.

However, starting Monday afternoon, for no apparent reason, Chocolate Hills did not only disappear from the Top 77 rankings but was also removed from the list of official nominees.

Gov. Erico Aumentado during the "888 News Forum" yesterday at the Bohol Tropics disclosed that he already communicated with the organizers of the search for the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

In his letter, the governor asked the organizers for an explanation on the de-listing of Chocolate Hills.

As doubts were raised regarding the de-listing, Aumentado informed the organizers that a German geological scientist, Dr. Eric Vos, has revealed that the Chocolate Hills were created over three million years ago when the island province of Bohol was under seawaters.

He said that the 1,268 hills located in the interior towns of Carmen, Sagbayan and Batuan were formed by undersea currents and tidal action.

"Being unusual geological formations," Aumentado said, "the hills have become the toast of tourists and nature lovers."

"In fact, former Pres. Fidel Ramos proclaimed Chocolate Hills as a geological monument" which is the "crown jewels of Bohol's tourism," the governor said.

NGO BEHIND THE SEARCH

The global search "7 New Wonders of Nature" is run by a non-government organization, and not by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

This was the information gathered by Rep. Edgar Chatto, chair of the House committee on tourism upon inquiries made with UNESCO-Manila offices yesterday.

The query of Chatto came after Boholanos were starting to "demand" that the sponsoring group of the global search should explain why the world- famous Chocolate Hills was all of a sudden de-listed from the list of nominees.

However, the NGO known as the New 7 Wonders of Nature is being managed by its director Federico Mayor, a former UNESCO director.

The information relayed by Rep. Chatto was gathered from Marinet Reyes, development management officer IV of UNESCO-Manila offices whom the congressman called in reaction to the report that the Chocolate Hills was de-listed since last Monday.

Reyes was quoted as saying that UNESCO has "no control on the mechanics of the search as it is being run by an NGO reportedly based in Europe. However, she categorically said that since the global "popularity contest" is in search for new wonders of nature, then it is in line with the thrust of UNESCO to help preserve and promote heritage destinations. This is also in line with UNESCO's program to help promote "nature" destinations. Presently, UNESCO is headed by Director General Koichiro Matsuura.

Reyes assured the House tourism committee chair to officially inquire from the NGO tomorrow regarding the existence of the global search while checking likewise why the Chocolate Hills was de-listed from the list of nominees.

Rep. Chatto will expect the reply from UNESCO-Manila office regarding the query anytime this week.

"MAYON" EXPERIENCE

Three weeks ago, a similar incident happened to Mayon Volcano, another Philippine site nominated for the search. Mayon was on the 17th place but was also dislodged from the Top 77 and the list of official nominees.

Presently, two other Philippine sites remain in the nominees - Tubbataha Reef and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River.

Tubbataha is currently ranked 9th as of latest poll. There are over 200 contenders from all over the world.

Nominations and voting for the New 7 Wonders of Nature will continue until December 31, 2008. The top 77 sites, based on the number of global votes gathered, will become the official nominees and will be eligible for consideration by a Panel of Experts who will shortlist 21 finalists.

The Panel of Experts will be chosen by New7Wonders Foundations whose names will be withheld until the winners are announced.

Pres. Arroyo pushes for Tubbataha, Chocolate Hills for ‘7 wonders’

2008-04-25T19:55:00.004+08:00

With this support will surely pour in! Hopefully now we see our candidates back soon :D and now i believe that our government is serious. Go Philippines!

By Lira Dalangin-Fernandez
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 12:50:00 04/25/2008

MANILA, Philippines – (UPDATE) President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has pitched for the inclusion of three of the country's sites into the ongoing search for the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Arroyo said she visited the Tubbataha Reef in Palawan to campaign for the site, which as of Friday was number seven among the 77 candidates ranked through Internet-based voting.

She said she would return to Tubbataha after her actvities in Negros Oriental.

Arroyo took a break from work Thursday and went diving in the popular diving spot.

"We need all Filipinos who are working here and abroad to vote," Arroyo said in an interview with the local media in Negros Oriental, which was aired Friday over government station Radyo ng Bayan.

Aside from the Tubbataha Reef, Arroyo also campaigned for Chocolate Hills in Bohol and the underground river in Palawan, which she said were ranked ninth and 20th respectively.

In the website www.new7wonders.com, however, Tubbataha Reef is the ONLY Philippine site in the top 77 as of April 25.

The site said that the vote is on until Dec. 31, 2008, after which the top 77 nominees would be submitted to a panel of experts that would put together a shortlist of 21 finalists by January 2009.

A second round of popular voting for the 21 finalists will then ensue and last until the end of 2009 -- with the top seven nominees being officially declared the "New Seven Wonders of the World" by the year 2010, it said.

The search is organized by the Unesco (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) and the non-profit New Seven Wonders Foundation, which also undertook the "New Seven Wonders of the World" search that ended last year.

N7W’s Disappearing Candidates Trick

2008-04-24T11:48:00.004+08:00

by: pinoy na nasubsob sa canda

The Philippines, Have you ever wondered why we’re called “more than the usual?” There is only one reason behind that... We ARE more than the usual. I would like to emphasize more on the new N7W issue. Nowadays, it really ticks me off to hear “OH NO... MAYON IS GONE” Then now, I hear the words “BOHOL IS GONE TOO” That just really pisses me off. No offense to the people in charge of the N7W, but I believe I have the right in saying that they have absolutely NO right to remove such candidates. Perhaps if I would talk to them, I would catch them speechless when I ask the main reason for such act. I could only imagine now the Boholanos just waiting for their Chocolate Hills to return to the list, and the frustration that they feel. I mean, why the heck in the world wouldn’t they? Bohol is a respected place for us Filipinos. The Chocolate Hills is a unique formation that I have never seen anywhere else in the world. It not only shows our uniqueness but it also shows our different colors! I was relaxed before, now I’m ticked! It’s just plain frustrating how people can do such things especially with the fact that no one has absolutely NO VALID reason or idea why. If it's a technical problem they (N7W) should fix it! If it's a problem with the requirements they should tell us, not just take it off that it was never there, If it's something else maybe they should help To the people from N7W who reads this... Please understand that not only is the pride of Chocolate Hills is at stake here, but also for the rest of the country! The Philippines has always been an “underdog” in the Olympics and such. This is one of the only few chances for us to shine, to show the world we are something that’s more than just people. We are people who strive and fight for whatever we believe in what’s right and fair.... I hope this blog makes a difference in the readers that reads this.

To the DOT, Please help! Do something!

"Keep Chocolate Hills among 7 wonders’ list"; candidates dropped?

2008-04-23T19:46:00.004+08:00

WOHOO! DOT! HELP! SOS! EVEN THE MAYOR IS CLUELESS! HELP!
THANK YOU BOHOL OFFICIALS! BUT WHAT ABOUT MAYON? BICOL DO SOMETHING!

‘Keep Chocolate Hills among 7 wonders’ list’
By Marian Z. Codilla
Cebu Daily News
First Posted 12:29:00 04/23/2008

CEBU CITY, Philippines - Bohol province officials got a shock when they saw that the Chocolate Hills was dropped from the list of final nominees in an on-line, global search for the New Seven Wonders of the World.

From the seventh slot, the geological marvel that attracts thousands of local and foreign tourists, slipped out of the race.

The recent development prompted Governor Erico Aumentado on Tuesday to write to contest organizers to seek urgent reconsideration.

The Chocolate Hills are the “crowning glory” of Bohol tourism, he wrote, and were formed by sea sediments three million years ago when Bohol was still submerged underwater, based on the study of Dr. Eric Vos, a German geologist.

Aumentado fired off the letter on Tuesday, which coincided with the celebration of Earth Day and an 888 news forum of Cebu media practitioners visiting Tagbilaran City, Bohol where he was asked about the upsetting news.

The geological formation is composed of 1,268 cone-shaped hills spread over more than 50 square kilometers in three towns. The mounds are covered in grass that turns brown during the dry season, hence its playful name.

Aumentado said the Chocolate Hills were a focal attraction of tourists and nature lovers, and was declared by former president Fidel Ramos as a geological monument of the Philippines.

The non-profit foundation that runs the contest unveiled the initial results of the first-ever global on-line voting of the “new” Seven Wonders in a gala show in Lisbon, Portugal in July 7, 2007.

Tagbilaran City mayor Dan Lim has issued a call to support Bohol’s bid and get more on-line votes.

Chito Vaño, Bohol's tourism officer, said it was puzzling how the Chocolate Hills were deleted from the list when it had reached the top 7 spot in the survey organized by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the New Seven Wonders Foundation.

Aumentado adopted a diplomatic tone in his letter and cited scientific research, saying, “I request for your kind consideration to include the Chocolate Hills among the candidates for the New Seven Wonders of Nature.”

Vaño said Bohol has been campaigning for it to be part of the Seven New Wonders of the World and used different kinds of media to increase public awareness.

Online voters have to go to the website www.new7wonders.com to cast their vote.

“We are asking everyone to vote for it, even the tourists who come to Bohol are being encouraged to vote. That is why we don't know what happened,” said Vaño.

The Tubbataha Reef in Palawan ranks ninth among the 77 candidates worldwide. /Correspondent Marian Codilla

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/news/view/20080423-132174/Keep-Chocolate-Hills-among-7-wonders-list

Media Hops in the Action

2008-04-22T20:49:00.001+08:00

FINALLY the media has joined in the crusade in promoting our candidates in the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Prime time news has been featuring this more often now. I know for a fact that TV patrol world has mentioned this at least thrice and 24 Oras at least twice. In fact ABS-CBN’s The Correspondents will be dedicating a show for our candidates especially our two nominees who at the moment are part of the present list of nominees, namely Tubbataha Reef & Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. (for more information on that: http://beta.abs-cbn.com/tabid/104/Article/9641/Default.aspx) Even the newspapers are joining in! Though they may not make it in the front page or have their on special area, just the fact that it's there is a big help.

If the media continues this, for sure our candidates will sky rocket to the top, especially Puerto Princesa Subterranean River who needs a push. Hopefully this can continue. Maybe an update every month would do fine, or maybe the DOT should make commercials that call on our people to vote.

Boholanos Unite for Chocolate Hills in N7W

2008-04-22T20:03:00.004+08:00

“It is indeed time for Bohol to shine. As the saying goes, "when it rains, it pours." We only can recall the days when hardly anyone cared about Bohol. Times there were when people purposely skipped Bohol in their provincial visits because they were full of justifiable apprehension: no light, few transportation means, no telephone lines, and lack of clean potable water.” --This was the paragraph from the editorial of The Bohol Chronicle that struck me the most.

We’ve been hearing so much on Palawan’s unity in bringing the candidates to the top with of course the mayor’s extra push that we forgot about Bohol’s involvement in all this. From the article that I’ve read, it seems that Bohol is dead serious about getting in that magic 7. Like the Mayor said, there is no reason why the Chocolate Hills can not be part of the new 7 wonders of nature, it
is one of a kind in the whole world. The Mayor just like of those in Palawan have supported and promoted voting for their bet. They’ve called on all Boholanos and Filipinos around the world to go and vote for the chocolate hills and the Philippines’ other candidates. If we feel the need and pressure to push our

candidates to the top, what more the? And we wonder how the Chocolate Hills managed to stay on the top of the rankings. Truly this article has touched me on how we can unite for our country. And l quote from the article “But now, it seems, the sleeping tarsier is awaken - in fact, roaring like a dragon.”

Click Read the article: http://www.boholchronicle.com/2008/apr/20/editorial.htm

Oh by the way, I bet the Boholanos are pretty pissed that the Chocolate Hills vanished.