WEEKEND MALL GOALS (MAY 25-26)
Discover the best of Bicol tourism, food,
fashion, and trade at Shangri-La Plaza
By Nate C. Barrero
Photo and video by Monsi A. Serrano
It may well take Metro Manila dwellers half a day to drive down to Bicol; so this summer weekend, the best of Bicol is coming to Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City.
Tourism and trade promotion goes hand-in-hand in the Orgullo kan Bikol (OKB) Regional Trade and Travel Fair, staged at the Grand Atrium of Shangri-La Plaza from May 22 to May 26.
The ongoing mall event this weekend is co-sponsored by the Departments of Tourism (DOT Region 5) and Trade and Industry (DTI Region 5).
The fair culls authentic Bicolano products, all made by micro, small, and medium enterprises in Legazpi City, a primer on the event released by Shangri-La said.
But the exhibit showcased more than what could be expected as there are stalls that sell bottled Bicolano dishes and delicacies from Camarines Sur like FSJ Pasalubong Sentral and Maynet’s homemade laing, tuyo, and tinapa.
From Camarines Norte, exhibitor Jireh Food Products offered a variety of snacks from veggie chips to veggie cookies and polvoron, as well as tarts and sweets from the royal nut of Bicol – the pili.
One interesting display was the collection of fruit-based wines made by Alden Therese, which, since 2012, has bottled Lipote (Baligang) sweet and dry wines; Rain Tree (Acacia) dry wine; Banana sweet and dry wines; Lolly Fruit (Santol) sweet wine; Lemongrass sweet wine; and even Cacao and Banana with Ginseng variations.
Proprietor Alden Maria Bonot of Calabanga, CamSur, says these wines boast of bold new tastes that are not only flavorful but essentially pack health benefits. “Apart from having vitamins and being antioxidants, we have wines that can help people quit smoking, treat ulcer, prevent tuberculosis and have antibacterial properties,” Bonot says.
The fair also highlights the fashion and flowers of Bicol, with an array of handcrafted abaca products, stylish accessories, and native home fixtures.
“Beyond the iconic Mount Mayon and scrumptious local cuisine, there are a lot of reasons why many tourists rave about this scenic destination,” a statement of Shangri-La Plaza said.
And these hidden spots for ecotourism is what the Orgullo kan Bikol promises to uncover. DOT-5 is continuously boosting Bicol’s tourism industry with more ecotourism activities, the development of its diverse natural attractions, and promotion of its unique festivals.
For families seeking a new travel destination or honeymooners finding that perfect romantic spot to explore and relax, the OKB at Shangri-La Plaza is a must-visit this weekend.
Join the hashtag fever when you visit the event and post pictures of the beautiful OKB showcase by using #OKBicolAtTheShang and #FeelTheShangVibe.
For inquiries, call 3702500 local 597 or visit www.facebook.com/shangrilaplazaofficialfanpage. Follow the Shang on Instagram: @shangrilaplazaofficial.