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Friday, May 9, 2025

Pipian

Pipian is like the chill cousin of kare-kare. It originally came from Mexico during the Galleon Trade era. Over time, Caviteños swapped roasted almonds for toasted rice. It’s creamy, savory, and totally underrated.

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken, cut into serving pieces

1 head of garlic, crushed

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon annatto (achuete basa), extract the color in ½ cup water

2 1/2 cups water (or more)

1 chicken bouillon (for extra flavor)

2 tbsp rice flour (or more)

1 small bottle peanut butter (or more, to taste)

cooking oil

fish sauce (patis)

pepper to taste

chopped green onions 

pechay and sitaw (optional)


Procedures:

Toast the rice flour in a pan over low heat until lightly browned. Remove and set aside in a bowl.

In another pan, sauté the garlic and onion.  Add chicken pieces and fry until light brown.

 Add 2 ½ cups water and boullion. Bring to a boil and let simmer for at least 10 minutes.

Add peanut butter and annatto extract. Stir well to combine.

Season with patis and pepper to taste.

Add toasted rice flour slowly while stirring to prevent lumps. 

Bring to a boil, then simmer until the sauce has thickened while stirring ocassionally to prevent the bottom from burning. 

Stir the chopped spring onions, reserving some for garnish.


Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Calandracas

Calandracas, one of the earliest recipes featured on this blog, deserves a revisit after 15 years. 

It's worth noting that since fully dedicating myself to Chabacano advocacy last year, this blog has seen a shift away from regular recipe features – a conscious choice that even led me to step back from my sideline food business. I've always believed in the power of focused effort, understanding that prioritizing what's most important in the present moment is key. This time, I'm revisiting Calandracas with a twist, using ground beef instead of the chicken that was traditional in our home's version and the one I initially shared. 

This adaptation will be used for an upcoming heritage food presentation and cooking activity for children and it's crucial to trial the recipe thoroughly beforehand.

Ingredients:

500 grams ground beef

10 cups water or more

2 beef bouillon cube (for extra flavor)

5 garlic cloves, crushed

1 onion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon cooking oil

200 grams macaroni (or more)

1 carrot, diced

2 medium potatoes, diced

1 cup squash (kalabasa), diced 

1 cup cabbage, chopped

1 cup pechay or Baguio pechay, chopped

1 can Alpine milk 

salt and pepper to taste

1 egg (optional)


Preparation:

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté garlic briefly until fragrant, then add onions and cook until soft. 

Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it's fully browned and no longer pink.

Pour in the water and add the beef bouillon cube. Bring to a boil, then add the macaroni and cook for 10 minutes.

Add the carrots and potatoes. Cook for 5 minutes. Then add the squash, cabbage and pechay.

Season with salt and pepper to taste and simmer for 5 more minutes. 

Stir in the milk and heat through, but do not boil.

If using egg, slowly drizzle in the beaten egg while stirring the soup.

Cover and rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Witnessing the Magic: Circle of Chabacano Dreams Finds Its Voice at Dia del Libro

Finally stepping into the vibrant atmosphere of Dia del Libro not just as attendees, but as active participants with our very own booth, felt like a significant milestone. It was the culmination of countless hours of preparation, fueled by the hope of connecting with fellow book lovers and heritage enthusiasts. Little did we know the incredible wave of support and genuine curiosity that awaited us.





From the moment the event opened, our booth became a hub of activity. What started as a hopeful endeavor quickly transformed into a bustling center of conversation and discovery. People of all ages and backgrounds were drawn to the display of Chabacano literary works, their eyes widening with intrigue as they learned about the Spanish-based creole language that has shaped the cultural landscape of Cavite City for generations.


Fr. Virgilio Saenz Mendoza was an early bird who took the time from his busy schedule to support us. He is also one of those who contributed Chabacano writing contents for our two dozen zines.




Mr. Marcos Octavio Vara Jacobo, Second Secretary of Embamex Filipinas

The energy was palpable. Questions flew thick and fast – about the history of Chabacano, the nuances of its vocabulary, and the stories held within the pages we proudly presented. We shared anecdotes, recited familiar phrases, and witnessed firsthand the spark of connection ignite in those who encountered Chabacano literature for the first time. The crowd at our booth remained steady, a vibrant testament to the enduring appeal of heritage and the power of storytelling. Even as the day drew to a close, and other booths began to quiet down, our corner continued to buzz with enthusiastic visitors eager to learn more.




To say it was our biggest event yet would be an understatement. It was a powerful validation of our mission. The overwhelming interest in Chabacano literature at #DiaDelLibro2025 undeniably reinforces our belief in the profound ability of heritage to connect and inspire. Seeing so many individuals, from curious onlookers to those with roots in Cavite, engage with our literary treasures has filled our hearts with immense pride and renewed our commitment.

Mr. Edwin Guinto who brought along his Republica Filipina Reenactment Group to support us and our booth was an instant hit to the crowd.


Mr. Ige Ramos with National Book Development Board

This Dia del Libro wasn't just about showcasing books; it was about sharing a piece of our identity, fostering understanding, and igniting a passion for a heritage that deserves to be celebrated. The experience has left us energized and even more determined to continue our journey of preserving the past and empowering the future of Chabacano language and literature. 

The momentum from this incredible event will fuel our upcoming projects, including the exciting launch of Enriquez Publishing House, ensuring that the literary voice of Cavite City continues to resonate for generations to come. 

Thank you to everyone who visited our booth and shared in this momentous occasion. The dream is alive, and we're thrilled to continue this journey with you! 

CCD President Che Enriquez with Ambassador of Spain to the Philippines H.E. Miguel Utray and Las Cuerdas Caviteños which she brought along to additionally showcase Chabacano culture. 

For photos of this recent book event and current NGO updates you can visit CCD's official FB Page: Click Here

#DiaDelLibro2025 #ChabacanoLiterature #CaviteCityHeritage #CulturalPreservation #CCD






Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Authenticity, Integrity and Truth

 



Aspiring to rise is natural or be popular and of value is a normal human behavior, but it should never come at the expense of honesty and integrity. Stealing recipes, claiming another's culinary creation as your own, or misrepresenting the origins of a dish to gain attention is a self-deceptive and ultimately meaningless victory. This is a betrayal of trust, not only to the original creators but also to the community that cherishes these traditions. Defensiveness when confronted, hoping your pretense continues unchecked, and refusing to apologize genuinely undermine your worth and the value of your supposed accomplishments. Pointing out the truth isn't harsh; without correction and critique, the falsehoods some exploit for popularity will only continue to spread. Sometimes we must speak up because we do not want the next generation sitting around believing that lies are facts and the new truth. 

Friday, April 18, 2025

Cavite City Heritage Cuisine is, in truth, Chabacano Culinary Heritage and that’s a FACT


Chin Chao was one of the very reasons Lutong Cavite blog came to life. I vividly remember how native Chabacano speakers or who grew up in a Chabacano speaking home would rush early morning to the palengke every Good Friday, excited to get their hands on that prized lenten drink. Their joy was contagious dahil unahan ang pagbili kaya dapat maaga ka  - yet, strangely, there was barely any information or even photos of it online as well as the other beloved Chabacano dishes.

It actually took me a few years to finally feature chin chao. Back then, I didn’t really enjoy going to the market - if it weren’t for Sir Ige, who helped me see the beauty in it, I probably never would’ve appreciated it the way I do now. Chin Chao is elusive - miss it on Good Friday, and you’ll have to wait another year. And yes, I did miss it few years, which made finally featuring it all the more special when the time came. Now this year suddenly it was Filipinized in spelling being pushed by an individual page that isn’t even rooted in the community to tsin-tsáo. Why Filipinize something that is inherently Chabacano? Our Chabacano alphabet uses C and Ch - that's why Chin Chao is spelled that way. But now, here comes 2025 - suddenly it’s tsin-tsáo, forced into a Filipinized spelling just to match a page’s theme? LOL, just like that, puwede na palitan ang spelling? As if heritage is a trend you can tweak at whim?

And again the case of the so-called “lost Chabacano heritage recipe” that supposedly uses 115 sili and dates back 70 years based solely on the account of someone who lived here, but isn’t even a native. No community validation. No credible documentation. Just a dramatic revival story. But let’s be real - in a very small city like ours, where everyone knows everyone and tsismis spreads faster than fire, and food is life (tragon y tragona niso!) and the phrase “nuong araw” refers to a time when there were far fewer people so how could a dish that was allegedly served during fiesta and major social gatherings just vanish into thin air without anyone remembering it? How?

Our elders used kawa for large batches - if that dish truly existed, someone, anyone, would remember it. Children in the past here are "ayudante" of the elderly in the cooking. And since when did Chabacanos even have a preference for super spicy and with coconut milk wherein pork is mixed with seafoods?

It’s giving Imus and the flag moment all over again. Remember when they claimed the flag waving as theirs and it took the efforts of Sir Willy and the group to reclaim what’s rightfully ours? What if no one fought back then? The history would’ve been lost. And even now, let’s be honest, it still doesn’t fully feel like it's ours… because Imus celebrates it louder, even if the legacy is of our city.

Cavite City is incredibly rich in heritage. The deeper you dig, the more treasures you uncover. We have the potential to be among the top 5 cities in the country in terms of cultural assets. We even have our own Spanish creole language that is recognize around the world. But the problem is, we’re not fully embracing it.

Too often, we limit the idea of cultural assets to just old structures and monuments, while other places have already documented even the smallest details of their culture. And because we haven’t, others swoop in, rewrite the narrative, and claim the credit that should have been ours. If we don’t protect our heritage, someone else will and they won’t always get it right. 

Saturday, January 18, 2025

Planting Seeds of Hope: The Circle of Chabacano Dreams Begins

 


Earlier this month, on January 3rd, Circle of Chabacano Dreams, Inc. officially launched its mission to preserve and celebrate the vibrant Chabacano Caviteño language and the rich cultural heritage of Cavite City. The launch event, a resounding success, marked the beginning of an inspiring journey under the visionary leadership of founder Ms. Che Enriquez.



At its core, the Circle of Chabacano Dreams, Inc. is committed to empowering the community through a range of initiatives. Our focus encompasses education, the vibrant celebration of our culture through engaging events, and the development of economic opportunities that are deeply rooted in the Chabacano Caviteño identity.


A central pillar of our mission is the revival and flourishing of the Chabacano Caviteño language. We are dedicated to creating dynamic and accessible learning tools that will nurture a thriving linguistic community, ensuring its continuity for generations to come.

Furthermore, we are deeply committed to honoring the entirety of Caviteño heritage, recognizing its inherent richness and vibrancy. Our efforts will encompass various aspects of this heritage, ensuring its preservation and promotion.

We warmly invite you to join us on this meaningful journey. 

For photos of the launch and current NGO updates you can visit CCD's official FB Page: Click Here







Monday, December 16, 2024

HISTORY OF SANGLEY POINT by Leon Junn Evangelista Young

About three hundred years before the Spanish colonization of the Philippines, Chinese nationals have already been going to and from selected areas in its islands aboard their slow sailing junks to exchange trade with its natives. Some of these Chinese junks penetrated the waters of Manila Bay and opted to offer their wares to early Caviteño natives living at the northern tip of the place called Tanguay (the present-day Cavite City). They introduced themselves to the natives as “Shang Lui,” from the Chinese Mandarin word meaning Chinese traders. The natives then begun to call them “Sangley” as much as the place where they meet to exchange their wares.

In 1571, when the Spaniards led by Conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi came to conquer and finally settled in Manila and Cavite, they never ever been noticed this place until about sometime when they discovered that it was a projecting promontory or point.

In November 1574, Chinese pirates led by its formidable leader Lim-Ah-Hong tried to invade Manila by force but was subsequently repulsed by the combined forces of the Spaniards and native volunteers. In the ensuing battle Lim-Ah-Hong’s army suffered heavy casualties and decided to retreat than surrender to the local defenders. They took a temporary refuge at Sangley Point where they nursed their wounded comrades and buried their dead. They eventually left the place for another destination.

When the Spaniards came to this place and asked the natives about its name, they said it’s Sangley hence from then on, the Spaniards called it Punta de Sangley. They found the place sandy and full of reeds which in their own tongue meant caña. And so, they gave the place its second name, Cañacao.

The Spaniards utilized the southern portion of Sangley Point (Punta de Sangley) as a carbonera, a place for deposit and dispensation of coal which was brought in from Europe in English ships. To guide these ships to the Punta on entering Manila Bay, the Spaniards erected a lighthouse which they called Farola on its easternmost tip. Since then, Sangley Point became a coaling station and support facility for the Spanish naval base located at Arsenal de Cavite in Fuerza de San Felipe Neri (now Fort San Felipe, Philippine Naval Base, Cavite City).

As additional means of livelihood, the Spaniards raised cattle in the place.They imported these cattle from Mexico and with them they brought in their feed which consisted of dried fruits from a certain Mexican plant. This feed was simply strewn over the place for the cattle to feed on. Unknown to the Spaniards the dried fruits contained seeds which, after imbedding in the soil, grew up covering the whole place with thorny plants which the natives called aroma. It is believed that Cavite is one, if not the only place in the Philippines where this kind of plant can be found even to this date.

In 1875, the Spaniards established a naval hospital in Sangley Point and was managed by the Sisters of Charity. It was called the Hospital de Cañacao. This hospital had served the sick and wounded Spanish soldiers all throughout the hectic days of the Philippine Revolution. It was also said that Sangley Point was made a temporary detention camp for Chinese immigrants in 1876.

In 1884, the Spaniards approved the establishment of El Varadero de Manila or Fernandez Shipyard (the vacant lot in front of the present 15th Strike Wing, PAF Headquarters) which served Sangley Point as its western boundary. El Varadero de Manila acquired the area from a British company which was granted a 99-year decree. It was inaugurated in 1885.

When the Americans came in 1898, the facilities at Sangley Point was taken over by the U.S. Naval Expeditionary Forces under the command of Commodore George Dewey. It was made a rest camp and as burial grounds by Commodore Dewey’s forces. They also used the facilities of the former Spanish Hospital de Cañacao and renamed it United States Hospital, Cañacao. However, this hospital, where new buildings were constructed in place of the old ones by the Americans, was became fully operational in 1905.

In 1904, the Americans had built warehouses on the site of the Spanish carbonera and to these had been added a wharf, machinery, mechanical shovels and cranes for the loading and unloading of coal- an improvement over the old Spanish ways and means.

Sangley Point continued to serve essentially the same function for the U.S. Navy. In 1915, three 600-foot steel antennas (destroyed during WWII) were erected for the operation of a powerful radio communications station named Radio Sangley. Later on, a submarine support facility was established. The Cavite U.S. Navy Yard (Fort San Felipe) just across Cañacao Bay became the major ship repair facility for the Asiatic fleet. However, World War II and the Japanese occupation of the Philippines interrupted the operations. in 1942.

The first bombing of Cavite City on December 10, 1941 had partially destroyed the Cavite Navy Yard. When the Japanese forces occupied Cavite on January 4,1942, they continued to use Sangley Point and Cavite Navy Yard for basically the same purpose. They rehabilitated and expanded the facilities and use them for repair of their own craft and construction of small wooden vessels for coastal shipping of supplies.

In September 1944, American carrier-based planes bombed the repair facility at the Cavite Navy Yard. It was again badly damaged as were most of its other buildings. The U.S. 11th Airborne Paratroopers liberated Cavite City on February 11, 1945. On March 20, 1945, units of the Seventh Fleet landed at Sangley Point chasing the Japanese out of the area. Within a month, ACORN-45 arrived and set up an advance base maintenance organization under Commander Donald W. Darby. They immediately began construction of an airstrip in preparation for the attack on the Japanese mainland.

The base maintenance organization was officially designated Naval Air Base, Sangley Point on October 4, 1945. In March 1947, it was redesignated as Naval Air Base Sangley Point and finally, on June 1, 1949, the base was renamed U.S. Naval Station Sangley Point and the U.S. Naval Air Station was decommissioned. Early in 1955, top-echelon planners of the U.S. Navy acknowledged the importance of Sangley Point services and designated it a permanent facility. Its primary mission was to provide maintenance, support and materials for the regional operations of U.S. Seventh Fleet.

Sangley Point was also the headquarters of Commander U.S. Naval Forces Philippines/ Commander-In-Chief Pacific Representative Philippines, considered the most important activity by U.S. Naval Station Sangley Point. It also supported two patrol squadrons, deployed in Sangley on a rotational basis to help fulfill the Mutual Defense Pact between America and the the Philippines.

The U.S. Coast Guard Air Station and its CG Ship Nettle played a vital role in search-and-rescue operations and in the maintenance of remote long-range aid-to navigation (LORAN) stations located throughout the Philippines. The American Fleet Weather Facility was tasked with furnishing weather information to ships and aircraft operating in the Western Pacific and East China Sea areas.

The U.S. Naval Station Sangley Point also provided support for one Fleet Air Wing detachment, a Naval Communications Center, Marine Barracks, a Recruiting Detachment, and Navy Exchange and Commisssary Stores.

Early in December 1970, it was officially announced that U.S. Naval Station Sangley Point would be closed. On June 5, 1971, its transfer to the Philippine Government was effected within the framework of the Military Assistance Agreement. On the 19th of the same month, the Sangley Point Interim Inter-Agency Committee was created by Executive Order No. 324 of then President Ferdinand E. Marcos. It was tasked to prescribe policies and to provide guidelines in the administration and operation of the Sangley Point Complex.

On July 1, 1971, Sangley Point changed status from active to inactive in preparation for the turn-over of the facility to the Philippine Government. The Sangley Point Closure Detail was activated by the Americans under the command of an Officer-In-Charge with a 95-man, 7 offiicer contigent. On September 1, 1971, Sangley Point naval base was officially turned-over to the government of the Philippines, thus ending 73 historic years as a U.S. Naval facility. The Philippine Navy became the “caretaker” agency of the Philippine Government administering the assets which were transferred by the U.S. Government. The Philippine Task Group under the 205th Composite Wing of the Philippine Air Force then occupied the areodrome facilities. On May 15, 1972, the PAF Task Group gave way to the 240th Composite Wing pursuant to General Orders No. 360, HPAF, NAB, Pasay City dated 4 May 1972.

Source:

Imbestigador ng Bayan Online

Face Book Page May 7, 2015

 

Leon Junn Evangelista Young

Historical Researcher

29 August 2002

Photo c/o : https://commons.wikimedia.org


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