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President Arroyo opened the new Subic/Clark portion of the expressway for Holy Week at 1 PM on Tuesday. Tues morn we drove the back road to AC. At 1:30 we got on the freeway. At 2:05 we were in Subic. 35 restful minutes. We drove 80 kph while others were going 160 kph. Anyone, regardless of era, who has ever labored this route has to be impressed. No bikes, trikes, busses, trucks, horses, children, goats or chickens. It's a gorgeous, scenic drive too. All rural and agricultural. It's built way high so you are looking down. Rice fields, rivers, jungle, all in the shadow of the mountains with Pinatubo closer than ever. They still have some work to do. Signing was almost non-existent. Painting remains to be done. So it closed after Easter Sunday.

The re-opening is supposed to be last week of April. Everyone one will be able to enjoy speedy access to Pampanga and Manila and vice versa. It will alter Olongapo/Subic/Zambales/Bataan much like the Pinatubo volcano eruption and the base withdrawal did. A metamorphose style change. More tourists, more business, more traffic. Rental, land and home prices are already escalating.

Barrio Barretto has some alterations too. Here are some of the most radical ones long-time visitors will recognize.

	This was formerly Gringo’s, Last Two Dollars, Rose Garden or Sportsman’s depending on the era. A club is going beneath. Apartments above.		This is almost recognizable as the old Samori massage parlor. It is being remodeled into a hotel. The name is the Sandcastle which is appropriate.

	This is the corner where you make the turn to Baloy Beach. Crazy Horse once sat here. This will be an office building.		This will be called The Pub and be club/hotel. It is the Swiss half of the old Midnight Rambler.

	This is corner where you turn to go to Marmont or VFW. Formerly Dixie Bar, a hotel will reportedly be built.

An excellent new restaurant in the barrio is London Underground. Opened by Steve Hickmont and Mickey of Harley's it has classic fish and chips served English style. They are located between Bart's an Night rider.

We continue to recommend Bay Area Realty if you have any real estate needs in the area. They are constantly updating their listings. They do other things such as title searches or helping you secure titles to tax paid real estate and consultations. www.bayarearealty.com.ph

We also mention once again this site for serious Subicphiles. These guys come up with good information although it is at times sporadic. http://subicbulletin.blogspot.com/

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) The old base area are going through some radical construction scenes themselves, some of which are questionable. The green areas are rapidly disappearing. Three restaurants are now on the lawn between the old post office and Spanish Gate. An office complex is being constructed on the lawn behind the former chief’s barracks. A hotel, cynically called a sports hotel is going up on the primary baseball field near Remy Field. Yes, the one across from the main gate. The other adjacent ball fields are tennis courts two or three of which are sometimes in use. These are just a few examples of grass and trees and ambiance being replaced by concrete.

The President’s Cup Regatta was recently held with over 30 sailboats and 300 sailors participating. It was organized by the Manila Yacht Club and jointly hosted by The Lighthouse Marina Resort and the Subic Bay Yacht Club in conjunction with the SBMA.

This year the 16^th annual VFW Beach Bash surpassed all previous ones in participation, fun and revenue. Beach Bash coordinator Seth Hendricks stated, “We are extremely grateful for the outpouring of support the community gave us this year.”

Held February 13-17 it included numerous competitions spread out in various barrio venues. There were men, women and mixed 8 ball tournaments and a 9 ball tournament. Four separate dart tournaments were held. There were horseshoe, table tennis and trivia competitions as well as children’s games. New this year was Texas Holdem card games.

Hosting and sponsoring these events were Arizona, Islanders, Sea Pearl, Lagoon, Playa Papagayo, little Wheel, Indaba, Midnight Rambler, Johansson’s, Dreamland, Blue Rock, Scuba Shack/Aqua Sports, Friday’s.

The main stage was behind Mango’s, Islanders and Little Wheel. On Valentine’s night there was a battle of the bands. Friday night was the Mrs. Beach Bash competition. Saturday night had separate singing and dance competitions. Sunday afternoon the Little Miss Beach Bash was held and the ever popular Miss Beach Bash closed out the long weekend.

The shows and singing and dance competitions and beauty contests were absolutely spectacular. The stage shows on Saturday night were way off the scale. A dozen players in costumes, with stage props worked their way through theme shows. There was an Egyptian show and a Spiderman show and a native show and several blatantly gay shows. They went through costume and set changes. The perfectly synchronized dance moves were beyond impressive.

The dunk tank was a popular daytime diversion as Griff’s bar in Calapandayan provided a bevy of bikini-clad beauties to dump from the rail to the tub. Other stage fillers included a magic show. There were martial art’s demonstrations and even a knife throwing display. Did I mention Elvis was there? No kidding.

No Limit DJ Productions provided the music and lights as the Beach Bash moved toward a higher level of sophistication. The VFW Post 11447 wishes to thank all who sponsored, donated, helped or participated in this year’s event.

Winners of the various competitions will be listed at the end of this update. Special thanks also to Wayne Gordon and Michele who took most of the pictures. You'll find all of the pictures on our Beach Bash page, and a select set on our home page.

Another group involved with sponsoring the Beach Bash was a newly established Philippine Retirement Authority. They have been very aggressively pursuing potential foreign retirees. Their presence is everywhere. They have held seminars and spoken to all groups remotely related to ex-pat activities. Their newsletter is impressive. Their website is www.pra.gov.ph

Another thing to do in Subic Bay we recently discovered is the Olongapo Museum. Located on Hospital Road next to the Olongapo Convention Center it was opened in 2004. Going in we expected little. But an hour and a half later we came out going, “Wow.”

It traces the city from ancient times as a small fishing village inhabited by Aetas. The focus continues with the discovery by Spanish Conquistadores in the early 16^th century followed by the Japanese invasion during World War II. It continues with the administrations of the Americans after the revolution at the turn of the century to the historic turnover of self governance in 1959. It covers the years of Martial Law under Ferdinand Marcos. Then there is the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 and the successful military bases conversion and economic independence that followed.

The written information on wooden boards accompanying the pictures and displays is first rate. There are a series of rooms that are like stage sets. One has American and Japanese soldiers fighting over the zig-zag pass on the old highway leading into the city. The soldier/dummies actually move and fire weapons. Another is of the assignation of Mayor James Gordon in 1967 with a similar enactment. There are base turnover reenactments and Pinatubo volcano dig-out reenactments. Our personal favorite was a room depicting Magsaysay Drive in its navy-liberty heyday. There is a go-go girl in glass case dancing while a sailor watches. Then a hallway is painted so as to be looking down the fabled street..….with signs reading, Cal-Jam, Sharks Cove, Florida Club, Far East Rock. The museum is open Monday through Friday 9AM to 6 PM. Admission is 50 pesos.

MSC tankers and supply ships continue coming into Subic Bay on a regular basis. We also had two submarines in as many months. These were the first subs to visit since the attack on the USS Cole several years back. First the Pasadena and then the Topeka came in for several days each. The ‘bubble heads’ had a blast and were great guys. The USS Frank Cable is currently in port right now making their first visit in years.

After more than 6 years the MV Doulos returned to Subic Bay in January for a 10 day stay. It is the largest floating book fair carrying a half million books. Built in 1914, it is only two years younger than the Titanic. Note the similar shape. The ship has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s oldest ocean going passenger ship. It was packed daily as schools ferried students to this worthy attraction.

We hate to pass on so many death announcements but some of these people have been in the area forever and it is worth noting their passing to faraway friends. In the last year Rick McGowan owner of Islanders Bar as well as Island Girls during the base days passed on. Gary Hudson a fixture at FRA San Antonio died. He was joined by Thomas (Andy) Anderson. Gene Gann, twice post commander of the local VFW also died. And just a few weeks ago Chester Gross who founded and ran the Retired Affairs Office since the base departure died in February.

One day I was talking with some people after a dart tournament at the Midnight Rambler. It was late afternoon and there were still children on the beach. On the table was a small green box, the same shape but half the size of a pack of cigarettes. It said JOPE on it. Now Hope is one of the most popular brands of smokes in the Philippines. This was a perfect replica, green color and all except for the name change. They were candy cigarettes. I found the nine year old kid who brought them and ask, "Where did you buy these?" He goes, "In the canteen at our school." Today at one of the Duty Free stores on SBMA there was a man promoting a new brand of cigarettes. He was giving cigarettes away for free. The Philippines can still amaze.

1st	Mary Ann De Guzman, 19
2nd	Ana Margarita Milan, 18
3rd	Lealyn Alico, 18
Best Talent	Joanne Bessarra, 22

1st	Haydee Otenburg
2nd	Isabel Ketunuti
3rd	Dianne Damasco
4th	Lorna Encarnation
Mrs Photogenic	June Christine Gaw
Mrs Popularity	Haydee Otenburg
Best Bikini	Haydee Otenburg

Trivia Contest Winner - CRS (Can’t Remember Shit!)
Members: Bruce Duck, Jeff Duck, Tom Sturkie, George Laughlin

We have had a healthy traffic of American civilian ships during the past few months. The USNS San Jose, USNS Diehl, USNS Niagara Falls, USNS Tippecanoe, USNS Concord, USNS Pecos and USNS Bridge have all graced out shores and have enjoyed unrestricted off-base liberty. Most of these are fleet support vessels carrying “beans, bullets and black oil,” to re-supply other ships. Coming as it has during our off-season it’s been a shot in the arm for area businesses. Other US ships on horizon during upcoming exercises include USNS Ericsson, USS Janeau, USS Tortruga, USS Connecticut and USNS Brittany. The two-week Talon Vision and Amphibious Landing exercises will have 6500 American and Filipino participants. Enjoy the pictures on our main page.

The VFW Department of Pacific Area mid-term convention will be held in Barretto on December 7, 8, 9, 2007. The 16th annual VFW Barrio Barretto Beach Bash will be held February 13-16, 2008. It will again be on the waterfront behind Mango’s, Islanders and Little Wheel. Blue Rock will hold their 2008 Beach Bash Ms Blue Rock and Ms Gay Blue Rock on March 15.

The most frequently asked question is when the Clark-Subic Expressway will be finished. It was supposed to be Nov-Dec this year. But we don’t think anyone really believed that. The Manila Standard just reported it’s to open in March ’08. Karl Welteke recently walked its 94 kilometer route. To view its progress check out his pictures: http://www.kodakgallery.com/karlwelteke1942/main/subic-clark-hwy_tipo-luakan_070627

When you are visiting Barretto there are a couple of quirky little bars worth checking out. They both have some of the lowest beer prices in the area. One is the General’s Command Post on National Highway. This is run by Don West who has spent most of his adult life playing General McArthur. He even has McArthur’s jeep which he uses to ride in Olongapo’s parades dressed up as the General. The Command Post is filled with military memorabilia, while running Victory at Sea and World at War videos. Most importantly it has some cute little waitresses.

Another saloon is Doc’s Hooyah. I’m not sure quirky begins to describe Doc or his bar. Doc is a former SEAL with a loyal local following. His place is decorated with women’s underwear for the most part. If there is a blank place on a wall you are welcome to fill it up with a black marker pen. The Hoorah has a pool table and darts. It is located toward the highway from VFW on the same side of the street.

Olongapo is experiencing a construction boom. In Barretto we have one going on as well. The Pub located next to the Old Midnight Rambler is in its final phase. On the corner of National Highway and the Baloy each turnoff a three-story office building is going up. Long time Barrio runners will remember the site as the former Crazy Horse Bar location

Anyone interested in comprehensive coverage of sensitive political issues particularly on the old naval base, (Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority) should check out The Subic Bulletin at http://subicbulletin.blogspot.com/ In the last couple months they have covered such controversial issues as the proposed coal power plant, the Korean condominiums, SBMA’s takeover of the golf course, local internet services and SBMA’s proposed parking fees. No one is sure who is running the blog but it’s turned into one of the hottest reads in the area.

Rainfall in Subic was 10 inches May and June, 21 inches in July, 62 inches in August and 30 in September giving us 123 on the year.

This following is a rewrite and updated version of our section How to Get to Subic Bay:

The Manila (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) NAIA is a fairly confusing place for the first timer. There are now two terminals. One is for Philippine Airlines and the other is for all the other airlines. It’s known as terminal 1.

Terminal 1 is the older of the two. Upon arrival you go through the usual immigration/passport control area. This is followed by the nearby baggage claim area. Adjacent to that is baggage inspection which is usually cursory at best. You then proceed through double doors into a foyer area. In this foyer you can rent a car and driver from any of the major car rental companies for about P5000 which today is $110. If this is the way you intend to travel to Subic it is safe and efficient.

If someone is meeting you, then continue out of this area, across the outside street and down one of the two tunnels on each side. This brings you to a curbside waiting area. It is alphabetized so you can stand under your name if that is how you planned it in advance. Across this road are the ‘greeters.’ Once you identify each other that person can then get the vehicle and picks you up at the curb. Mango’s and other hotels can send drivers to the airport and provide this service, complete with coolers of ice water, soda, beer and other amenities. As of this writing most of us do this for P4000 or $85.

Terminal 2 at NAIA is also known as Centennial Terminal. Your first impression is how clean it is. If you have ever arrived at the other terminal this is a breath of fresh air. It is easy to navigate immigration, baggage claims and customs. From there it is a straight shot outside where friends, family and drivers are easy to find.

Like all airports the world over keep your wits about you, your valuables safe and do not get taken in by someone with an absurdly low price to take you to your destination.

Mike O’Farrell has been operating his seaplane service here for over a decade. He picks you up at the South Harbor near the US Embassy and flies you to Subic in 30 minutes. He lands at his hanger on SBMA. The cost for this pick-up is $200. If you would prefer to land at Mango’s or any other beach resort in the area the price is $250. Contact him at 63-47-252-2230 or e mail him at seaplane@info.ph As of this writing Mike’s cell phone number is 09-19-325-1106

For the seasoned visitor to the PI or the cost-conscious adventurer, Victory Liner Busses are a great way to get from Manila to Subic Bay. They run from 4 AM until 8 PM leaving hourly. The first class busses are clean, comfortable, fast and efficient. They usually provide movies on board. The trip to Olongapo takes 3-4 hours depending on time of day and Manila traffic. They are safe within reason. Pay attention to your stuff. To get to Victory Liner terminal take a taxi and ask to be taken to the Pasay (pass-eye) terminal. This bus service to Olongapo is P186 or $4.

For travel between Subic Bay and Angeles City Subic Express van service leaves from Bart's Hotel in Barretto daily at 10 AM. From Angeles it departs Kokomo's to Barrio Barretto at 1 PM in the afternoon. Cost is 400 pesos or about $9 at today's rate. For information call 09197760256.

Here are recent photos of the Hanjin Korean Shipyard currently under construction across Subic Bay. Specifically it is Redondo Mountain, what the military called Green Beach. To get there a new road begins in Castillejos , running though Cawag Valley to the slopes of the mountain and the shipyard. The dates on the camera can't be changed and are incorrect. You can see more at http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i265/PI-Sailor/Philippines/Korea%20Shipyard%20close%20up/

Lastly, you may not know our web master Tim Jacobs out of Austin, Texas. Tim's a long time PI veteran who first started frequenting the area in 1980. He's been back many times over the years and was stationed in San Miguel 1983 through 1986 and then again at Cubi 1990 through 1992. Tim carried a camera everywhere. He took pictures in Manila the day after the people power revolution, used an underwater camera impervious to the dust to capture Mount Pinatubo photos, hiked from Baguio to Banaue and more. This of course all before digital cameras. Tim shot everything in color slides and finally after more than 20 years in some cases has begun digitizing his thousands of slides. You may not know him or the folks in his pictures but they sure bring back fond memories of good times. You can see the first couple hundred pictures at: 1980, 1983, 1984, 1986 and 1987. And, Tim has had several pages of Philippines photos up on the web which you can access here.

Rainy season and the start of the school year both begin in June. It’s also the start of the slow season for tourism, making it the ideal time to visit. The American dollar has lost 18% against the peso in the past year. The peso is currently trading at 45 against the greenback. The government has been quick to claim it is their economic policies making the peso strong when in fact most currencies have appreciated against the dollar.

National and local elections were held in May 14. Twelve new senators have been proclaimed. One is Gringo Honasan who has allegedly been involved in all the major coup attempts against the government dating back to 1986. Another new senator is Antonio Trillanes. This senator-elect was one of the core leaders of the “Magdalo” soldiers who staged the July 27, 2003 mutiny at the Oakwood Condotel in Makati City. He won in spite of being in the Marine Brig at Fort Bonifacio while undergoing rebellion charges. He was a member of the Genuine Opposition and although unable to campaign still won election. That tells you how unpopular this administration has become. While the government of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo did poorly in the 24 seat senate they did well in the assembly. This is important because the assembly manages impeachment proceedings. This group has managed to block every effort to impeach the president.

In local Olongapo and Zambales elections the Gordon family had a banner year. Dick Gordon is still in the senate and did not have to stand for re-election. His brother Bong Gordon won re-election as mayor of Olongapo. Their cousin Cynthia Cajudo was elected vice-mayor. Nine of the ten city councilors were from the Gordon slate. Amor Deloso, a Gordon family supporter was elected Governor. Bong’s wife Anne Gordon was elected vice-governor of Zambales. (Sounds a lot like Texas elections)

The new expressway from Angeles City to Subic Bay, due to open in December has now been delayed ten months. So we will probably see a mid-2008 opening. Anyone familiar with the area has to be impressed with its progress. It’s breathtaking to see this kind of infrastructure development being made in this country. Karl-Wilhelm just published a new album for the project at: http://www.kodakgallery.com/karlwelteke1942/main/subic-clark-hwy_tipo-luakan_070627

The same can be said of several big Subic Bay projects. The container port adjacent to the Cubi airport continues to be filled in as huge cranes are being installed.

The Hanjin Korean shipbuilding facility at the former Green Beach reportedly has orders for ships until 2010. They will be building the world’s largest oil tankers. Hanjin has booked $3 billion in orders since spending $1 billion to construct the shipbuilding factory. It looks like a medium sized city at night with its many lights up the mountain where darkness once was.

On SBMA (old Base) three new projects have begun. In November, work began for a 150 room resort hotel at Dream Village inside Subic Bay Industrial Park. (Opposite old SEAL Team area) Dream Village will have health spas, a golf driving range, swimming pools, restaurants and bars.

They also recently broke ground on three, 17 story condominiums called Ampelos Tower. This is on 1.4-hectares at Subic Commercial and Light Industrial Park. It’s actually the old Public Works area near the Kalaklan gate.

The Shipbuilding Hanjin Corp. is erecting its own condotel on a 3-hectare corner of the Ilanin Forest East.

All this construction (except the container port) is new money from Korea whose citizenry continue to pour into the Philippines and Subic Bay. SBMA now has many Korean restaurants, several small hotels, a grocery store and even a church. Off base businesses are starting to use Korean on their signs and storefronts. Mango’s who have the front cover of the local tourist magazine, Barrio Express will use Korean in next month’s issue.

In Barrio Barretto, construction continues on The Pub. Located next to the old Midnight Rambler (now Johansson’s) it appears to be a three story hotel with the bar on the ground floor. Two new night spots worth checking out are Scores in the Arizona Hotel and The Office just down from Mango’s toward the Rambler. What opened and then closed as Hollies and then Chicargo (the old General’s gym) is set to re-open and will be called Hot Box. They wanted Love Shack for a name but the city refused.

At Baloy Beach, the newest Hotel is Treasure Island managed by the Kokomo’s group of Angeles City. They put in one of the nicest pools in the area. http://www.kokomoz.com/subic.html.

The Subic Bay Golf Course located in Binictican on SBMA was recently seized by SBMA officials from its Taiwanese owners. Thank God. This was one of the most poorly administered golf courses on the planet. They reportedly failed to settle obligations totaling $350,000 and 16 million pesos in rentals. They also were in violation of labor and environmental laws. You can read more on this juicy issue at our Local News page.

Subic City (Calapandayan) continues to deteriorate. It may be seasonal but their have been more bar more closures than usual. Griffs, Crow and Tahiti Hai all closed their doors. The only western clubs remaining are Players, Luna, Kinky’s and Eagles. There are many places still operating catering primarily to locals and Asians. They tend to open very late but have some good shows.

A new, local resource for area real estate is http://www.bayarearealty.com.ph/default.php. They specialize in Subic Bay and Zambales / Bataan / Pampanga province properties. This includes resort, condo, homes and land sales. Land prices are already escalating in the provinces affected by the toll road. Bay Area Realty uses only licensed realtors. This may be a first. There have been many people selling property over the years but rarely do they pack a license or follow or even know the laws. Their email address is wmbmyers25@yahoo.com

A place worth visiting in Angeles City is Gecko’s run by George Saari who owned the Body Shop on Gordon Avenue back when Subic was still a Naval base.

A new local blog sure to cause controversy is http://subicbulletin.blogspot.com/. They are doing some serious investigative journalism which the area really needs. Have no idea who they are. Journalists catch bullets in this country so it’s best they stay invisible.

Lastly, we regret informing you that long time Barretto resident Steve Jurey died the morning of June 11. He was active in many activities such as the pool and dart leagues. It is major loss for his many friends and especially his wife Diane and their two young children Queenie & Joshua. We have pieced together a simple tribute page for Steve which you can find here: Steve Jurey Tribute Page.

Mangoes, strawberries and pineapples have all come in season. We are offering a thick, blended all fruit drink with breakfasts at Mango’s. The fruit and the weather don’t get any better in the Philippines than the first few months of the year. Think Hawaii.

We just installed a wireless internet hookup for our customers with laptops, which is available on the patio in the restaurant or in the rooms.

Our season has been excellent as November right through January have seen new and old Subic visitors on the streets, in the ocean and around the multiple club venues. Rock Lobster, Oriental Rose, Broadway, Club One and Midnight Rambler have all been humming along with new-found energy as we enter our second year featuring dancers.

The P21 billion Subic-Clark-Tarlac expressway continues to be built in record time. This will make the Zambales and Bataan areas readily accessible from Pampanga and Manila for the first time. A near two hour drive will be reduced to a mere 30 minutes. This toll road is expected to open in December of this year. It'll be a 51-kilometer four-lane expressway starting in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone and ending at its interchange with the North Luzon Expressway near the Clark Special Economic Zone in Pampanga. It will have similar features with the recently rehabilitated North Luzon Expressway. The expressway is part of the Bases Conversion Development Authority's Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway Project or SCTEP, which aims to connect the ecozones of Subic and Clark and the Hacienda Luisita in Tarlac.

Another big area change is the Hanjin Korean shipbuilding facility. This is a $720 million dollar project well under way in the Green Beach area of Subic Bay. Six months ago there was nothing over there. Now half the mountain has an administration and deployment area constructed. There are 71 cranes working 24 hours a day on the shipbuilding site. It’s breathtaking what is happening in the previously practically inaccessible area. The US Navy used it for Marine and special forces training as it was virgin forest and jungle. The shipbuilding facility will eventually employ 20,000 Filipino workers.

The key word here is Korean. For better or worse they are everywhere in the Philippines. They recently took over as the number one tourist arriving country. On SBMA they have an English language and golf school. They have purchased two golf courses on the former Clark Air Base.

Kokomo’s Subic which opened a hotel on Baloy Beach has added a floating bar making two in the area. Blue Rock has one that does excellent business especially on weekends.

The VFW Beach Bash opens February 14th through 18th. It will again be held behind Mango’s, Islanders and Little Wheel. Some new events in store this year. Pool, darts, volleyball and table tennis as usual. Added are a Dragon boat regatta, petting zoo and singing competitions. There are several of the ever-popular beauty contests. Mrs. Beach Bash is on Thursday night. The Junior Miss Beach Bash is on Saturday. Sunday has the Little Beach Bash followed by the weekend finale……Miss Beach Bash.

Subic City, now known as Calapandayan is making a comeback. It may be seasonal or hopefully permanent. There are a number of late-night clubs that cater mostly to Filipinos or karaoke. Nothing wrong with them but we just don’t go there. For the foreign tourist we’ll just run through a litany of the ones currently operating:

Luna Club - This place is kind of a dive aesthetically speaking. It’s a throwback to the old Subic City days which is precisely why we like it. Bar, pool table, cold beer, entertaining ladies. The other thing its got going is an Italian named Johnny who plays some of the best rock and roll in the area. His DVD concerts are spectacular. Want the Stones Bridges to Babylon tour? Got it. BB King? No problem. He’s just started selling authentic Italian pizza. It’s not Shakey’s or Pizza Hut. Leave the family at home.

Eagles Head - Again we like it for the same reason. It’s authentic old Subic. Unfortunately it does not have a pool table and if they have music we’ve never heard it. The balcony that overlooks the street is a fantastic place to sit, chat and buy a lady a drink.

Griff’s Bar - This place is up and down. It usually has a bunch of nice dancers. But sometimes it doesn’t. Worth a stop still.

Tahiti Club - Open again. They opened and closed several times over the past year, which seems to be a Calapandayan trend. Right now it’s pretty good. Nice dancers and some interesting shows nightly. Stop by for their schedule.

Crow Bar - Open again after almost a year closed. They are definitely trying. A bunch of new dancers we’ve never seen working anyplace before which is kind of refreshing.

Players - This is the most popular bar in town right now. Previously it was known as Winchester, Bullring and Elton Ron’s. It’s a very nice venue almost-out-of place because it is so nice. It could be in Barretto or Angeles City. It has a whole bunch of dancers and a very popular happy hour.

Kinky’s - In its prime this place was sensational. But at least for us it’s lost some of its luster. They still have some females but seem to have decided that men dressed as women is more of an appeal. Let’s just say they are living up to their name.

Asian Reef - The ‘talk of the town’ when built a few years back. No one seems to be able to make this place work. Successive owners have tried and failed. Now the actual owners have taken it over and it has its old Navy days name back…. Miami.

We will try and get photos of the Beach Bash up on the site right after the event. In the mean time have a great 2007!

A joint RP-US war games exercise was just concluded. Called Talon Vison 07 it was a sixteen day affair taking place in Clark Field, San Antonio, Palawan, Tarlac and Cavite. On November 1^st liberty was granted to the ships visiting Subic Bay. These included the USS Essex, USS Niagara Falls, USS Juneau, USS Harpers Ferry, USS Stethem. The Navy (not marines) were allowed on the first four blocks of Magsaysay and in Barrio Barretto between noon and 6 PM. Few bothered to make the trip so most liberty fun was had on SBMA (old base area)

Our tourist season is starting to heat up. Beach Boulevard Business Association (Barretto) held a Mardi Gras on 19, 20 and 21 of October on the beaches behind Mango’s, Islanders and Little Wheel. Friday night the stage area featured a dance competition that was high caliber. Costumed groups of 8-10 kids brought the 600 spectators to their feet several times with breath-taking stunts. It was like the TV, college, cheerleading contests with a lot more danger thrown in. Saturday night there was a beauty contest along with live bands. The three-day affair featured sand-castle sculpture, volleyball, table tennis, pool, darts and horseshoes. The event was a fundraiser to put lights along the Barrio beaches.

For those planning to attend this year’s Barrio Beach Bash sponsored by the VFW, the dates are February 15, 16, 17 and 18. This event tends to bring out expats from around the Philippines and the world. If you plan to attend make room reservations early.

A new hotel opening in the area is Kokomo’s Subic. Located on Baloy Beach it will be managed by the Kokomo’s group from Angeles City. They have two 2-bedroom cottages and ten ‘theme’ rooms. Themes for these rooms include Egyptian, cave, jungle, love, wild-wild west, music, Banaue and pirate. As of this writing local, land-line phones are being installed. The cell number is 0919-311-3141 For e-mail use kokomossubic@yahoo.com

We hosted our Halloween party again this year. It was on a Tuesday. On Monday afternoon we held our largest children’s party ever, with more than 60 decked out kids in attendance. Then Tuesday night the grown-ups howled at the moon. November 1 was All Saints Day and a national holiday.

Typhoon Milenyo roared through Subic Bay and the Philippines on September 27^th. In spite of the storm, Mango’s held their second annual golf tournament on the 30^th. As it turned out it was a bright, sunny day at San Antonio Golf Course with no rain or wind. The event has been held the past two years to raise money for Operation Cleft Palate which benefits poor children born with a defective mouth or palate. Following the golf tournament a lasagna dinner was held at Mango’s along with the trophy presentations. Jerry Martin and Dennis Doty captured green jackets and trophies, as did Captain Ragaza and Captain Ignacio of Station B in Olongapo City. Girlie and the Freemix band concluded the evening performing until midnight. Thanks to all who participated, sponsored or contributed. A special thanks to our sponsors for this important cause:

Another upcoming golf tournament now in its 6^th year is ‘The Love of Children’ charity foundation. This is the Shriner fundraiser for disabled children. It’s to be held on Saturday the 11^th of October. We have participated in the event all six years and it’s a joy to play. For the first time it will be held at Air Force City on Clark Field in Angeles. Time will also be allotted for a Veterans Day Ceremony. For more information on this event check out www.theloveofchildren.org

We will soon be offering a golf section on the site and reviewing local courses complete with fees. This will be an on-going project and anyone wishing to contribute is invited to do so.

A Christmas Carnival has been set up inside the main gate of SBMA. (old Base) This will run until mid-January. There are rides, booths, night markets, bands and stage competitions of various kinds. It’s good for a date-night or a night with the kids. It’s set up right across the street from Times Square Cinema which is the only modern movie theater in the area, and the only one which shows newly released films.

Q: Is it true that PIOL has gone out of business? If so what alternatives are available for internet access in the Subic area?

A: PIOL (Philipine Islands On line) has gone out of business. But we now have all kinds of alternatives and various types of connections. For dial-up we heartily recommend the ultravision cards. These cards are sold in shops around the area. There are several others ISP dial-up companies but this is by far the best. For cable, the local CATV (Cable television) is also offering different types and priced services in most local areas. Their landline phone is 232-2020. For wireless both Globe and Smart are offering services. Again this depends on your location, but most of Subic is covered and several hotels have this already available. For information from Smart log on at http://www.smart.com.ph/. DSL is also available. This is more limited. On SBMA (old Base) all or most businesses and residences have access to it. Outside the gates it is available in some locations such as Santa Monica subdivision. This service is more expensive than the others but probably the most efficient too. Phone: 252-2000

All for now - you all take care and enjoy the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays. As always thank you for supporting Mango's

Here's a long overdue rainy season update. We finally completed a long promised walkabout on Baloy Beach and that will be thrust of this piece. But first some recent changes:

The ferry from Manila to Orion, Bataan was the way to go for years to get to the Subic Bay area. And vice-versa. However their schedules have gotten very erratic. We assume the cost of fuel eliminated some scheduled departure times. The current times are as follows:

The price is 320 PHP for adults and 270 PHP for children. Their phone numbers are 834-6857 and 834-6858. They do not operate in bad weather.

Victory Liner busses have upgraded their service and vehicles over the years. The first class busses travel non-stop, have comfortable seats and en-route movies. The price is 180 PHP. The roads from Manila to Pampanga are vastly improved as well so this ride is much faster and more comfortable than it once was.

We just had 33 inches of rain over an eight day period and we have had 43 inches in the last thirty days. With extremely high tides locally there was still very little damage. But much of the Philippines did suffer. Baguio for example had thirty-eight landslides. We are just one month into rainy season and with yearly totals of around 100 inches of rain we have a long season to come.

Mango’s will host their second annual golf tournament on September 30^th at San Antonio Golf Club (old San Miguel base) This is our Operation Cleft Palate fundraiser. We are currently soliciting sponsors and players. Again assisting us are Blue Rock Resort, Kokomo’s in Angeles City, GMC Associates of Sarasota Florida and Palm Tree Resort next door to Mango’s. For information contact us via e-mail. Also pray for a ‘no rain’ day on September 30^th.

Kentucky Fried Chicken opened their first store in Olongapo City this past weekend. Located near the Victory Liner rotunda it looked like Bono had come to town. Hundreds of people crowded outside all weekend long. It may seem like no-big-deal except that folks have been driving sixty kilometers to San Fernando for years just to score chicken. Their opening was much like McDonalds a few years back when lines stretched three blocks when their doors opened at 4:00 AM. Like McDonalds, KFC will also have home delivery.

Baloy Beach is a left turn just past Barrio Barretto proper. In the 1940’s and 50’s it was part of the Subic Naval base and used as a recreational facility. It was administered by them and the Navy Exchange ran concessions. At that time US marines manned the main entrance gate which was above Baloy, on the main highway, at the bridge spanning the river. What is now 164 and Driftwood beach were US marine barracks. Barretto was a firing range. The native name of Baloy Beach was Manga Beach. The original name of Barretto was Maquinaya.

All that changed when Olongapo, Maquinaya and Manga were ceded to the Philippine government on December 7, 1959, and the gates moved to their current locations. Various families including Baloy, Palenzuela, De Perio and Salcedo began living in the area. Power and lights arrived in 1976.

In the late 1980’s two foreign businesses opened on Baloy. One was El Peso at the far end of Baloy which was completely destroyed by Pinatubo volcano in 1991. The other was Heaven Bar located where Blue Rock now stands. In 1995, Heaven changed its name to Sheaven’s when the city government objected to the name Heaven. (At the same time Island Girls had to change their name to Islanders) Sheaven’s eventually moved and Blue Rock emerged.

Around 1996 things began changing radically. Nice businesses and houses started being built. In eight years its old state has become difficult to imagine. But the growth has created problems because infrastructure has not kept pace with growth. Busy periods such as Easter Week create water shortages. The road needs constant attention.

For this current round-up of businesses on Baloy we’ll concentrate on the Western owned and styled hotels, restaurants and bars. Baloy Beach is rich mixture of nationalities. Aussies, Brits, Swedes, Germans and Americans predominate. This makes for excellent menu variety and dining choices.

The first hotel on the Baloy Beach road is Harleys. It was action central during the recent World Cup. A big screen TV with excellent sound and abundant seating contributed to the atmosphere. Harleys has rooms at P1500 a night during the tourist season and much less June-September. The menu has delicious specialties from Sweden. Cold cuts, stroganoffs, poached fish, goulash soups are included. Like much of Baloy there are also Thai food choices. Harley’s is also a golf center of the area. They can arrange packages at the nearby courses. Phone 047-224-6922, harleyspub@yahoo.com, www.harleyspub.com

Mangrove Hotel is right next door. A swimming pool and pool table are near the spacious bar area. Rooms in the four story structure are big and modern. The views are terrific. Mangrove gets many return customers. Their pool is popular with children. Lodging prices are comparable to others with P1000 possible during slow times and P2700 possible during peak season. Menu choices include pastas and curries, Caribbean pork, Jambalaya and Caesars salad. Phone 047-222-7909, themangrove@hotmail.com.

Next door is Sheaven’s Hotel and Restaurant. The landscaping here is sensational. Luscious grass and waterfalls are combined with scenic outdoor seating. Sheaven’s caters to families and has several family style rooms. Their rates are in the P1400 to P1700 range up to P3000 for families. At this writing their menu was unavailable as it was being revamped. But the fish and chips are said to be quite good. Phone 047-223-9430, www.sheavens.com.

Past the Baloy entrance gate is Blue Rock Resort who can be credited with starting the serious Baloy Beach tourist development. They have a diving center. They have a floating bar off-shore during the tourist season. Their bar is internet connected for laptops. They rent jet skis. There is a swimming pool and a well-manicured beach. At their boutique anything from sun block to bikinis can be purchased. They currently have thirty rooms but more are under construction. Their menu is varied. Eggs Florentine, Pommie mixed grill, big rissoles, three curries and Thai specialties are examples. Their rooms and menu are slightly more expensive than most but this business is extremely well-run and managed. Any complaint is immediately attended to. Phone 047-224-9042, www.bluerocksubic.com.

At this point in the Baloy Beach road, private cottages become available. Lots of them. Various families rent houses and cottages or just shady lean-tos, by the day, week or longer. We are writing in July so there are dozens of signs on windows and doors reading, “For Rent” or “Vacant.” During the “season” these rentals will become scarce. These structures continue for a couple hundred meters among small stores, boutiques and afternoon card games.

The next establishment of note is Mr. Pumpernickel’s restaurant. This German restaurant was first opened in 1990. The décor is straight out of the Alps. Their menu is really quite good, if decidedly German, except for the seafood. Items include bauerneruhstruck, cold cuts, Vienna and Hunter schnitzel, konigsberger klefss (polish meatballs), Hungarian goulash, pickled beef belly and German bread and butter.

Lagoon Resort is the newest hotel at Baloy on the land side of the road. It boasts a bar, restaurant, internet café, hotel and swimming pool. Their room prices are quite modest at P1200 to P1800. They have 17 rooms complete with cable TV, air-con and mini-bar. The bar itself has a pool table and dart board and Lagoon participates in the Barretto pool and dart leagues. Their Friday night bands are area favorites. Phone 047-223-3642, www.thelagoonresort.com.

Across the road is Johan’s room, bar, restaurant and dive shop. With 17 rooms at various prices Johan’s has something for everyone. Johan himself has long been associated with the Subic Bay diving scene. The rustic atmosphere of the restaurant has a super view of the bay. It has an antique jukebox with some classic favorites. The menu is something else. Varied does not begin to describe it. There are 34 breakfast choices. (Belgium waffles) There are 26 sandwich choices (double sausage & red onion, lamb sate, meat salad) 23 appetizers (stuffed shells with fish, shrimp and mushrooms) There are 14 ways to order your potatoes. The in-house bakery makes all the breads and cakes. They have home-made ice cream with the ingredients flown in from Belgium. (Negresco ice: vanilla ice with raisins floating on a bed of rum) Phone 047-224-8915, johan@subicdive.com.

Sea Pearl restaurant was formerly known as Sea View. Located on the beachfront this restaurant is known for their good food and extremely modest prices. On the day we visited their specials were grilled lamb at P195, grilled tanigue at P145 and pork cordon bleu at P165.

Our final Baloy Beach fun spot is appropriately known as Getaway. This is an extremely popular afternoon outdoor bar that brings many residents and tourists together at happy hour. It’s a great place to mingle, mix and meet. Their bar prices are lower than anywhere. Beer na beer is P22. San Miguel beer and beer light is just P32. Bill, Steve and Dhoyette have run Getaway for the past 12 years and are well-liked by everyone. They have 6 rooms in the P800 range during rainy season. They have 3 more under construction. Their menu is basic, good and home-cooked. Phone 047-224-8195, thegetaway1_@hotmail.com.

The entire June newsletter is dedicated to Ocean Adventure. It's been four years since we last visited Ocean Adventure on SBMA. It has grown, prospered and improved. Located deep in the rain forest of the old naval magazine the drive through the forest is breathtaking. The triple-canopied jungle is alive with bats, monkeys and other wild animals. Just before the Morong Gate is the turnoff to Camayan Wharf and Ocean adventure. It immediately has the feel of national parks or amusement parks. Flags, signs and attendants direct you to the parking areas.

There are two mains shows worth seeing. The dolphin and false killer whale show is really something. First the dolphins do all kind of jumps, dances across the water and swim tricks. The false killer whales follow with stunts of their own. The human handlers do some rides aboard the animals getting tossed unhurt back onto the piers. You view this 40 minute show in the comfort of tiered-spectator stands which are thankfully shaded. The background views of Subic Bay are priceless. Adults and children leave the show with smiles on their faces. We heard more than once, “That was great.”

The sea lion exhibition is a little more intimate. The two person trainers are entertaining and informed. Each has a sea lion they work with.

Adorable comes to mind just seeing their woolly-whiskered faces. Interspersed with the tricks are light hearted lectures on the environment and how wildlife can be damaged by man. Nets that can cripple, plastic that can suffocate. There is some audience participation in the show. A female was brought out of the crowd and received what must have been a very fishy kiss.

The aquarium has always been a favorite in this park. It’s actually 10 separate aquariums. You enter a dark cave-like, air-conditioned hall. The only light is from the aquariums. These are about one meter high and two meters wide. The ten tanks re-create the actual environments of the Subic Bay area. There is a freshwater tank recreating river environments. One has shallow mangrove conditions. One has sunken ship situations. They progress through the various ocean depths to the deepest of the deep. Each of these has the grass or vegetation or coral that grows in that environment and the fish that inhabit it. Next to the exhibits is excellent signing telling you what you are seeing. There are pictures of the fish with their names so you know what you’re looking at. Two attendants are present to answer questions. We returned here three times during the afternoon.

In between shows there is a restaurant and gift shop. Adult admission to the park is 400 pesos and children are 370 pesos. There are discounts for senior citizens, students and groups. Manila based groups (25+ pax) can contact groupsales@ticketworld.com.ph while local groups can call the park at 047 252-9000.

Hope you all had a safe and happy holiday season. 2005 was just a wonderful year here in the Subic Bay area. 2006 looks to be even better. To start your new year off right we thought we'd crawl the streets of Barrio Barretto and give you the very latest news on the many clubs, restaurants, hotels and more in this area. We did a hotel by hotel, restaurant by restaurant and club by club check of establishments throughout the Barrio. We will start from the southern arrival point and continue north to the end. This portion of our site has not been updated for some time and things change rapidly here. You'll find all this information also copied onto our Links You'll Like page. We will follow this with a new write-up on the Baloy Beach area soon. Prices for a bacon & egg breakfast are provided for restaurants to help give you a baseline on costs. Hyperlinks to email addresses and websites are also provided but please consider Mango's can not assist you if their addresses or links are not working.

Family Rooms P3800 to P4700 / Deluxe Rooms P1800 to P2195 / Budget Rooms P1500 to P1975

Located on beach, swimming pool and parking areas. Menu in restaurant has American, European, Filipino food. Bacon & eggs P225

Regular Room P968 to P1450 / Deluxe Rooms P1089 to P1750 / Beachside Rooms P1210 to P1950 / Bacon & eggs P65

Playa Papagayo Beach Hotel
# 43 National Highway
www.playapapagayo.net
63-47-224-1002

Budget Rooms P1300 / Standard Rooms P1800 / Beach front P2000 to P2200 / Superior Rooms P2400 to P2600

Restaurant has the best Mexican food in the Olongapo area. They also have many Thai dishes. Bacon & eggs P140.

Executive Room P2500 / Deluxe Room P2000 / Standard Room P1500 / Bacon & eggs P125

Large Rooms P900 / Small Rooms P700 / These are small but nice rooms with air conditioning. Good value.

By The Sea Hotel & Resort
99 National Hwy
www.bythesea.com.ph
63-47-222-4560/222-2888/223-4346

Dryden’s Hotel & Restaurant
# 58 National Hwy
drydens@subictel.com
63-47-224-8701

Rooms P700 to P900 / Restaurant here exceptional. American-Filipino-Mexican. / Big portions, over 100 entrée’s to choose from. / Bacon & eggs P180

Three large suites, with shaded outside veranda’s overlooking beach and bay. Microwaves, refrigerators, room safes, DVD players. / Suites P1800 to P2400 depending on season. / Restaurant has wide range of American, European, Filipino, Mexican and Thai dishes. / Bacon & eggs P190

Rooms P2200 / Weekly P2000 night / Monthly P1700 night / Excellent European food / They recently opened so menu in flux / Bacon & eggs P265

Fan Rooms P750 / Deluxe Rooms P1500 / Beachfront Rooms P1800 / Bacon & eggs P180

Fan Rooms P500 / Air Con Rooms P1000 / Family Rooms P1200 / Good European restaurant / Swedish meatballs etc. / Bacon & eggs P120

Barrio Barretto Restaurants
(excepting those already mentioned above in hotels)

This is a small coffee house and internet café. Clean and well run it’s new to the barrio and a nice addition.

Located where the Swiss Tavern used to be this is a comfortable restaurant with local décor. They serve all meals. Menu includes pastas, ribs, corned beef and cabbage, curries and other Asian dishes. We recommend the lasagna. Bacon & eggs are P180.

Currently located across from the old Marmont the “V” serves good, down-home food at reasonable prices. The daily special is usually something your Mom used to make. Chicken a la king, meat loaf etc. This is also a great place to meet locals or find people you might be looking for. Their bulletin board is filled with cars for sale, garage sales and other useful information. Bacon & eggs are P175.

Authentic Italian restaurant. Menu items include anti pasta, Greek vegetable salads, bruscheta, vegetable, fish, pumpkin and onion soups as well as fish and meat dishes.

Located in the heart of the barrio, Brettos has virtually every kind of sliced meat and cheese to choose from. You can also buy beef or pork tenderloin, chicken, hams and turkeys. They have a wide selection of imported sauces, mustards and other hard to find items from back home.

Located next to Bretto's, also in the heart of the barrio. Crusty Loaf is an amazing bakery. Breads, pastries, meat pies. Great place that looks and smells like it should be in the Swiss Alps.

Olongapo has recently allowed go-go dancers back on the long dormant stages of the city. Barretto has also jumped on the bandwagon. For that reason we’ll start with the new go-go clubs and then continue with other establishments not employing dancers that nevertheless have much to offer.

Located in Mango’s just off the street, Rock Lobster is the oldest of the nightclubs in the area. Opened in 1986 when the US bases were still here it moved to its present location in 1994. Great music, entertainment, atmosphere, employees and management are the reasons it’s maintained its standing and reputation.

This is another nice go-go club. Spacious, clean and comfortable. They have a wide range of games girls play with the customers at the counter much as they do in Thailand. The place rocks and is worth a visit.

Newly opened this club is a nice addition to our area. Straight ahead dancing girl bar with some sexy costumes. It’s located next to Oriental Rose and across from Rock Lobster.

Although it is under new management Night Rider has been around since the early 90’s. The stage is centered in the room so customers surround the dancing area. Two pool tables for customer use and tournaments.

Small, comfortable and intimate. Well run and some nice entertainers. Just built a small stage and dancers will begin soon. Recommended.

	Newsletter Current 2006 & 2007

Newsletter Archive 2005	Newsletter Archive 2004	Newsletter Archive 2003

Newsletter Archive 2002	Newsletter Archive 2001	Newsletter Archive 2000

1st	Power Puff Girls
2nd	Lovely Girls
3rd	New Star
4th	Weslayan Dance Group
5th	Charmes

Sheavens	Casino Filipino
Subic Charters	Masonic District 27
Harley’s	Blue Rock
Kokomo’s	GMC Associates
Scuba Shack	Arlene’s Money Changer
By The Sea	Insomnia
Mo’s Bars	Mabuhay Shrine
Palm Tree Resort	Viva Mineral Water
Pepsi Cola	San Miguel Corp
Ric’s Kountry Kitchen - Kingdom of Bahrain

Manila-Orion		Orion-Manila

7:00 AM		8:45 AM
12:00 Noon		1:30 PM
3:00 PM		4:45 PM

1st	Aaliyah Jershey Arevalo, 4
2nd	Ashley Nicole Villamor, 5
3rd	Princess Jessica Picardal

1st	Perlas ng Silangan
2nd	Tribong Gala
3rd	The Original Golden Beat

1st	Marjore F. Pangilinan
2nd	Miles Cameron Taylor
3rd	Jane Herman
4th	Mary Louise Wash