WELCOME TO CHATEAU DU MER BEACH RESORT

If this is your first time in my site, welcome! Chateau Du Mer is a beach house and a Conference Hall. The beach house could now accommodate 10 guests, six in the main floor and four in the first floor( air conditioned room). In addition, you can now reserve your vacation dates ahead and pay the rental fees via PayPal. I hope to see you soon in Marinduque- Home of the Morions and Heart of the Philippines. The photo above was taken during our first Garden Wedding ceremony at The Chateau Du Mer Gardens. I have also posted my favorite Filipino and American dishes and recipes in this site. Some of the photos and videos on this site, I do not own, but I have no intention on the infringement of your copyrights!

Marinduque Mainland from Tres Reyes Islands

Marinduque Mainland from Tres Reyes Islands
View of Marinduque Mainland from Tres Reyes Islands-Click on photo to link to Marinduque Awaits You

Thursday, July 31, 2025

The Pacific Ring of Fire: The Philippines and at Nature's Crossroads

This posting is inspired from a recent suggestion of a closed relative that I do write a blog post on the subject, since I have never written this topic in my blogs since 2009.  Yesterday earthquake in Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula ( also in the Ring of Fire ) adds the appropriateness of this topic💚 in my blog today.

The Pacific Ring of Fire: The Philippines at Nature’s Crossroads

The Pacific Ring of Fire is Earth's most volatile seismic belt, wrapping around the Pacific Ocean in a fiery loop of tectonic tension. Right in its midst sits the Philippinesa country both enriched and endangered by this geology. Known for its stunning landscapes and fertile soils, the Philippines also faces relentless threats of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis — consequences of living atop the Earth’s most restless region.


🔥 Why Is the Philippines in the Hot Zone?

The Philippine archipelago straddles the Philippine Sea Plate, the Eurasian Plate, and the Pacific Plate, making it a seismic hotspot. Constant tectonic friction gives rise to:

  • Earthquakes:
    Over 20,000 earthquakes occur annually in the Philippines, though only a fraction are felt.

    • Example: The 1990 Luzon Earthquake (Magnitude 7.8) devastated Central Luzon, killing over 1,600 people and causing massive infrastructure damage.

  • Volcanic Eruptions:
    Home to 24 active volcanoes, the Philippines regularly faces eruptions.

    • Example: Mount Pinatubo’s 1991 eruption, the second-largest of the 20th century, spewed ash worldwide, causing global temperatures to drop temporarily.

  • Tsunamis:
    Underwater earthquakes and volcanic activity trigger tsunamis along the Philippine coasts.

    • Example: The 1976 Moro Gulf Tsunami remains the deadliest in Philippine history, with over 8,000 casualties.


📅 Historical Timeline of Major Disasters in the Philippines

YearEventImpact
1645Luzon EarthquakeDestroyed Manila’s structures including churches
1814Mayon Volcano EruptionBuried towns, killing 1,200+ people
1976Moro Gulf Earthquake & Tsunami8,000+ deaths in Mindanao
1990Luzon EarthquakeMagnitude 7.8, 1,600+ deaths, severe infrastructure damage
1991Mount Pinatubo EruptionGlobal climate impact, 800 deaths, ashfall worldwide
2013Bohol EarthquakeMagnitude 7.2, destroyed centuries-old churches
2020Taal Volcano EruptionThousands evacuated, widespread ashfall

✅ Essential Survival Tips for Earthquakes, Tsunamis, and Volcanic Eruptions

Earthquake Survival Tips

  • Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Protect your head and neck under sturdy furniture.

  • Stay Indoors: Move away from windows and heavy objects.

  • Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include water, food, flashlight, and a whistle.

💚Tsunami Preparedness

  • Move to Higher Ground Immediately: After a strong coastal earthquake.

  • Heed Sirens and Warnings: Follow official instructions promptly.

  • Know Evacuation Routes: Pre-plan safe exits if you live near the coast.

Volcanic Eruption Safety

  • Wear Masks: To protect against ash inhalation.

  • Stay Indoors: Ash can cause respiratory problems and damage electronics.

  • Follow Evacuation Orders: Volcanic activity can escalate rapidly.


🌋 The Paradox of Beauty and Danger

The same geological forces responsible for this chaos also gift the Philippines with picturesque landscapes, rich minerals, and fertile lands. Volcanoes like Mayon, with its perfect cone, are tourist attractions, while fertile volcanic soil sustains agriculture.

Yet, the Filipino spirit of resilience and preparedness shines brightest in these times. Institutions like PHIVOLCS and PAGASA continuously monitor and educate citizens, helping communities adapt to nature's unpredictable might.


✅ Conclusion

The Philippines' place in the Pacific Ring of Fire is both a geographic curse and a cultural crucible. Filipinos continue to adapt, prepare, and persevere, living in respect and awe of the earth's volatile forces. With vigilance and science on their side, the country continues to balance life between beauty and the brink of disaster.


Meanwhile, here's My Photo of the Day
 


Lastly, here are some of my favorite quotes on Mountains and Nature 


Mountains: 

  1. “The mountains are calling and I must go.”
    — John Muir
  2. “Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.”
    — John Muir
  3. “Somewhere between the bottom of the climb and the summit is the answer to the mystery why we climb.”
    — Greg Child
  4. “Mountains teach that not everything in this world can be rationally explained.”
    — Aleksander Lwow
  5. “The top of one mountain is always the bottom of another.”
    — Marianne Williamson

 

Nature:

 

  1. “In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.”
    — John Muir
  2. “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”
    — Albert Einstein
  3. “And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.”
    — John Muir (attributed)
  4. “To sit in the shade on a fine day, and look upon verdure, is the most perfect refreshment.”
    — Jane Austen
  5. “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”
    — Lao Tzu

 

Wednesday, July 30, 2025

The Pacific Ring of Fire: The Philippines at Nature’s Crossroads

This posting is inspired from a recent suggestion of a closed relative that I do write a blog post on the subject, since I have never written this topic in my blogs since 2009.  Yesterday earthquake in Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula ( also in the Ring of Fire ) adds the appropriateness of this topic💚 in my blog today.

The Pacific Ring of Fire: The Philippines at Nature’s Crossroads

The Pacific Ring of Fire is Earth's most volatile seismic belt, wrapping around the Pacific Ocean in a fiery loop of tectonic tension. Right in its midst sits the Philippines, a country both enriched and endangered by this geology. Known for its stunning landscapes and fertile soils, the Philippines also faces relentless threats of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis — consequences of living atop the Earth’s most restless region.


🔥 Why Is the Philippines in the Hot Zone?

The Philippine archipelago straddles the Philippine Sea Plate, the Eurasian Plate, and the Pacific Plate, making it a seismic hotspot. Constant tectonic friction gives rise to:

  • Earthquakes:
    Over 20,000 earthquakes occur annually in the Philippines, though only a fraction are felt.

    • Example: The 1990 Luzon Earthquake (Magnitude 7.8) devastated Central Luzon, killing over 1,600 people and causing massive infrastructure damage.

  • Volcanic Eruptions:
    Home to 24 active volcanoes, the Philippines regularly faces eruptions.

    • Example: Mount Pinatubo’s 1991 eruption, the second-largest of the 20th century, spewed ash worldwide, causing global temperatures to drop temporarily.

  • Tsunamis:
    Underwater earthquakes and volcanic activity trigger tsunamis along the Philippine coasts.

    • Example: The 1976 Moro Gulf Tsunami remains the deadliest in Philippine history, with over 8,000 casualties.


📅 Historical Timeline of Major Disasters in the Philippines

YearEventImpact
1645Luzon EarthquakeDestroyed Manila’s structures including churches
1814Mayon Volcano EruptionBuried towns, killing 1,200+ people
1976Moro Gulf Earthquake & Tsunami8,000+ deaths in Mindanao
1990Luzon EarthquakeMagnitude 7.8, 1,600+ deaths, severe infrastructure damage
1991Mount Pinatubo EruptionGlobal climate impact, 800 deaths, ashfall worldwide
2013Bohol EarthquakeMagnitude 7.2, destroyed centuries-old churches
2020Taal Volcano EruptionThousands evacuated, widespread ashfall

✅ Essential Survival Tips for Earthquakes, Tsunamis, and Volcanic Eruptions

Earthquake Survival Tips

  • Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Protect your head and neck under sturdy furniture.

  • Stay Indoors: Move away from windows and heavy objects.

  • Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include water, food, flashlight, and a whistle.

💚Tsunami Preparedness

  • Move to Higher Ground Immediately: After a strong coastal earthquake.

  • Heed Sirens and Warnings: Follow official instructions promptly.

  • Know Evacuation Routes: Pre-plan safe exits if you live near the coast.

Volcanic Eruption Safety

  • Wear Masks: To protect against ash inhalation.

  • Stay Indoors: Ash can cause respiratory problems and damage electronics.

  • Follow Evacuation Orders: Volcanic activity can escalate rapidly.


🌋 The Paradox of Beauty and Danger

The same geological forces responsible for this chaos also gift the Philippines with picturesque landscapes, rich minerals, and fertile lands. Volcanoes like Mayon, with its perfect cone, are tourist attractions, while fertile volcanic soil sustains agriculture.

Yet, the Filipino spirit of resilience and preparedness shines brightest in these times. Institutions like PHIVOLCS and PAGASA continuously monitor and educate citizens, helping communities adapt to nature's unpredictable might.


✅ Conclusion

The Philippines' place in the Pacific Ring of Fire is both a geographic curse and a cultural crucible. Filipinos continue to adapt, prepare, and persevere, living in respect and awe of the earth's volatile forces. With vigilance and science on their side, the country continues to balance life between beauty and the brink of disaster.


Meanwhile, here's My Photo of the Day
 

Lastly, here are some of my favorite quotes on Mountains and Nature 


Mountains: 

  1. “The mountains are calling and I must go.”
    — John Muir
  2. “Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.”
    — John Muir
  3. “Somewhere between the bottom of the climb and the summit is the answer to the mystery why we climb.”
    — Greg Child
  4. “Mountains teach that not everything in this world can be rationally explained.”
    — Aleksander Lwow
  5. “The top of one mountain is always the bottom of another.”
    — Marianne Williamson

 

Nature:

 

  1. “In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.”
    — John Muir
  2. “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”
    — Albert Einstein
  3. “And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.”
    — John Muir (attributed)
  4. “To sit in the shade on a fine day, and look upon verdure, is the most perfect refreshment.”
    — Jane Austen
  5. “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”
    — Lao Tzu

 

The Shadowbrook Winery in Walnut Creek

During our scenic drive to the top of Mt Diablo last month, we passed by Northgate Road. That was the first time I saw the sign of Shadowbrook Winery. I got curious, so I did some search and the following article is what I learned.


Shadowbrook Winery in Walnut Creek up off Northgate Road is perfect destination if you don't want to drive up to Napa.
The wine, staff, service, and ambiance was awesome. They have a mixed menu of entrées and appetizers.
Everything was clean and well appointed. The grounds were impeccable. Was really impressed over all. You do need an appointment. You can do it via OpenTable.

In Addition : I asked one of my favorite writing Assistant this question: What Do you know about the Shadowbrook Winery in Walnut Creek,CA.  Here's the answer.    

Here’s an overview of Shadowbrook Winery in Walnut Creek, CA — a standout destination in the East Bay:


🌄 About the Winery

Shadowbrook Winery is a family-owned boutique winery located in the foothills of Mount Diablo. It’s widely recognized as one of the East Bay’s most decorated wineries, with over 60 medals—including double golds—at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition Yelp+12Walnut Creek+12SippnSunshine.com+12.

Founded in 2005 by local native Tim Jochner, who serves as the proprietor and winemaker, the winery emphasizes small-lot estate wines crafted from grapes grown on-site and nearby vineyards. He partners with UC-Davis–trained consultant Rick Tracy to elevate the wines’ quality and consistency YouTube+3shadowbrookwinery.com+3Napa Valley Life Magazine+3.


🍷 Winery & Tasting Experience

Since opening its modern facility and tasting room, Shadowbrook offers a premium guest experience labeled “Close to Home, Far From Ordinary” LinkedIn+4shadowbrookwinery.com+4SippnSunshine.com+4Their facility uses high‑tech equipment like Italian fermenting tanks with remote punch‑down, an optical sorter (one of only ~17 in the U.S.), and spinning barrel racks for barrel aging—enabling precision at every winemaking stage Walnut Creek+4shadowbrookwinery.com+4shadowbrookwinery.com+4.

Their tasting room features multiple distinct spaces:

Tasting options range from simple flight experiences at the bar (Triple Play, Meridian, Summit tastings) to private experiences of limited-edition or estate wines. They even offer a chauffeured Mercedes “Luxury Experience” packageSippnSunshine.com.


🍽 Dining & Events

Dining at Shadowbrook blends contemporary French/American and crossover cuisine, with a prix‑fixe menu typically starting around $50 and special multi-course dinners up to $120/person. Seasonal events between summer and early fall are often themed with curated menus paired with wines Napa Valley Life Magazine+8OpenTable+8shadowbrookwinery.com+8

For the Food Menu read:

https://www.opentable.com/r/shadowbrook-winery-walnut-creek


ℹ️ Practical Details

  • Address: 1 Meritage Lane, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

  • Hours: Open Thu–Fri 4:00 pm–8:00 pm, Sat 1:00 pm–8:00 pm, Sun 12:00 pm–5:30 pmmapquest.com+9OpenTable+9SippnSunshine.com+9

  • Reservation required (via OpenTable or their website), with outdoor seating prioritized for views and ambience. All seating is first-come first-served, but reservations are essential OpenTable+1OpenTable+1.

  • Age restriction: Must be 21+; no children are permitted by policy Yelp+1shadowbrookwinery.com+1.


🏆 Wine Portfolio & Club

Their portfolio includes varietals such as Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Merlot, and Rhônes blends, including limited release “Jon Rae,” “Diablo 905,” and vertical Cab tastingsmapquest.com+2OpenTable+2Napa Valley Life Magazine+2.

The wine club offers members 3 curated shipments per year, up to 25% discounts on wine and tastings, exclusive event invitations, and access to special seating areas like the Members BalconySippnSunshine.com+2shadowbrookwinery.com+2shadowbrookwinery.com+2.


✅ Why Visit?

FeatureWhat Stands Out
Award-Winning WinesOver 60 medals, highly rated across varietals
Innovative WinemakingHigh-tech winery production blended with hands-on craftsmanship
Scenic & Stylish SettingGreat views of Mt. Diablo, stylish design, and multiple tasting spaces
Tailored Tasting OptionsFrom casual bar pours to exclusive private experiences
Chef-driven DiningElevated food pairing options enhance wine enjoyment

Meanwhile, here's a short video of Batman and Robin .


Lastly, my photo of the Day: The Modern Barong Tagalog

The Barong Tagalog—often simply called "barong"—is the traditional formal shirt and recognized national attire for men in the Philippines. It is renowned for its light, sheer textiles, delicate embroidery, and its untucked, elegant silhouette.

Origins and History

  • The roots of the Barong Tagalog trace back to pre-colonial times, evolving from the simple, collarless baro worn by both men and women in many Philippine ethnic groups.

  • Its modern form developed during the Spanish colonial era, when it combined native Filipino elements with Spanish influences, including embroidery and more formal cuts.

  • A popular but debated legend claims Spaniards required Filipinos to wear the barong untucked and made of see-through fabric to prevent hiding weapons—a story now largely regarded as apocryphal, though the style stuck and became a point of cultural pride.

Materials and Design

  • Traditional barongs are made from sheer fabrics such as piña (pineapple fiber), jusi(silk or banana), and abacá. These materials are chosen for their breathability—well suited for the tropical climate—and their refined appearance.

  • Embroidery is a hallmark, often featuring Filipino motifs: floral patterns like the sampaguita (jasmine), vines, leaves, or geometric designs. The craft of weaving and embroidering these fabrics is a respected art passed down through generations.

  • Modern barongs expand on tradition with diverse fabrics, innovative embroidery, and custom fits. Many designers now offer versions in vibrant colors or with contemporary cuts suitable for both formal and semi-formal settings.

Cultural Significance and Use

  • The Barong Tagalog is a symbol of Filipino identity, pride, and dignity—worn at state functions, weddings, national holidays, and significant family occasions.

  • It is considered a garment of honor, celebrated for both its visual beauty and what it represents: national pride, rich heritage, and a blending of local and colonial histories.

  • Today, the barong spans from classic and ceremonial styles to progressive, fashion-forward interpretations reflecting the dynamism of Filipino culture.

In summary, the Barong Tagalog is not just formal attire—it's a living symbol of Filipino heritage, artistry, and national pride.

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