BATANGAS: YOUR GO-TO PLACE FOR QUICK GETAWAYS

WHY BATANGAS?

Batangas is our family’s go-to place for a quick weekend getaway ever since I can remember. My childhood memories are filled with blue skies and wide horizons, fresh, gusty wind and country rides. Batangas would always be a special place to me because of this and more.

There are a number of attractions on this place, most are family friendly but some can be exciting enough for a weekend getaway with friends or co-workers.

I like Batangas because it’s just two hours away from Manila. You can either take Star Tollway or the Tagaytay route, either of which will give you a pleasant country ride. And there are so many types of public transportation and routes you can choose from so you’ll definitely find one that suits you best.

Also, Batangas is not so rural anymore so everything else is fairly convenient. Lodging and accommodations are decent enough. Not to mention the restaurants you can stop over along the way. They make the best lomi in this part of the country, by the way.

Here are the places that we’ve visited the past years. Hope you can also drop by these amazing places with your family:

LA VIRGINIA RESORT

La Virginia is an 8-ha property full of pools and various structured attractions, all overlooking Taal Volcano. It’s a little bit difficult to get to, considering how many transfers you need to take when you’re commuting. Renting a vehicle would be a very good idea when going to this place. Its popular among the locals so asking for directions should be no problem.

The resort has several sections, each with a unique theme. The one where we stayed in is called Casas de las Flores which features flowers. We stayed at the Orchid, which can house up to 15 to 20 pax. It is also airconditioned and got at least 3 comfort rooms. There are TV, ref and griller. There’s also the Karaoke machine which you can use for an additional fee of P1,000.00.

La Virginia, Bronze Buddha Statue — The serenity of this giant bronze Buddha statue is further emphasize by the lush, green scenery from behind.

La Virginia, Pools and Cottages — The pool over at Casas delas Flores. This place must be so magical for children.

La Virginia, Concrete Hanging Bridge — Though most structures are made of concrete, the resort more than makes it up for the details and paints they put on each of the installation, like this hanging bridge right here.

One other section features a huge Buddha statue, with the green, lush woods as its background. Then there’s a castle and Marvel superheroes. If you’re for something homegrown, there are accommodations designed after Ifugao houses.

La Virginia also has a hotel, an infinity pool and this concrete hanging bridge (if it’s your thing).

It’s a nice place to explore with the family, but be prepared with the steep slopes. They might really get your joints aching after a while.

But with a view this breathtaking, your trip would definitely be worth it.

View from La Virginia Resort, Batangas — Heart-stopping view of Taal. Isn’t it so perfect?

TALI BEACH

How about a staycation on one of ‘em huge townhouses? If you’re prepared to go the miles and hike up those steep slopes and trek down the beach front, then maybe a trip to Tali Beach may be good for you.

The townhouse we rented costs around P40,000.00 but we’re like 50pax. It comes with everything – rooms, kitchen, spacious lawn, and a pool. So you can host a mini party with the family and arrange an island hopping tour the next morning.

The place is really well-kept and strolling along this type of street can really be a joy.

Tali beachfront. — Tali beachfront on a cloudy day.

Tali Beach Resort — Most men from the family tried to jump from this place. But the waters full of tagulabay.

MUNTING BUHANGIN

So we we’re on the lookout for a white sand beach nearby and this is the place we found. And since it’s also in that part of Batangas where roads just have to be so steep and winding, it would really take a skilled driver to get to and from the place. But of course, it’s Batangas – it can never disappoint. Just make sure that you’re up for a bit of a hike.

Accommodation is really good at this place and there are lots of activities you can engage in. The beach looks so nice and peaceful, too. Great place for little children to wade in.

Munting Buhangin Beach Camp, Island Hopping — My sisters having their “One Piece” moment at one of the islands we went to during our visit at Munting Buhangin.

Batangas waters, Munting Buhangin Beach Camp — This is what I love about Batangas waters in fair weather – smooth, calm and crystal.

Island Tour, Munting Buhangin Beach Camp — It’s a family day!

MATABUNGKAY

This place is where everything started. It’s like our very own family pilgrimage – driving back to Matabungkay every two years, spending time, sharing moments and reminiscing with the homies. I can’t remember any other place the whole, as in the whole, family go to whenever we want to hold an impromptu reunion.

My childhood vacations were spent on a balsa in the middle of the sea, eating salted eggs with tomatoes, playing with cousins or just staring out at the blue clear waters. I’m lucky if a little crab would pass by.

We just used to go for a day tour but when the family got bigger, everyone just wanted to stay a little longer, as if more time spent on this place would bring back some of those moments from long ago.

I like the coast here and the mornings especially. You can see something like an atoll when the tide is low. My cousins and I would go the farthest point we can. Sometimes we come home with loads of pebbles and shells. Most little ones would bring with them fish and other slimy things they found on the shore.

So not only the places but the memories that were created on those places made Batangas one fine place for me. It would always be my go-to place for a quick weekend getaway!

As always, thanks for dropping by!

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Up North Adventures Part II: Nature Tripping at La Union, Baler and Subic

This is Up North Adventures Part II! Now you get to have a glimpse of La Union, Baler and Subic! It’s business that I came for the former and leisure for the other two. These places define nature tripping at its finest!

La Union

Since I didn’t exactly came to La Union as a tourist, there’s only a few interesting places that I can share with you. Aside from the famous spots, the drive along the country side is something you’d enjoy (especially when you’re in the passenger seat).

Urbiztondo Beach: Surf Capital of the North

Just a stone throw away from San Juan Surf Hotel, the shores of Urbiztondo Beach is host to the province’s most anticipated surfing festival. Too bad we weren’t there for that. The receptionist said it’s usually held in October.

Urbiztondo Beach, La Union — Surfing Break happens every October. Urbiztondo beach is a haven for surfing professionals and enthusiasts!

San Juan Surf Resort — Comfy beds and nice ambiance. Though we only get to stay the night, it’s still a wonderful experience.

Halo-Halo De Iloko

For a quick detour, we dropped by this infamous halo-halo place in San Fernando City – Halo-halo de Iloko. Halo-halo is a native dessert – a mixture of sweetened fruits, milk, and ice cream sitting on a pile of crushed ice. It’s the perfect fix during summer.

Halo-Halo de Iloko has been featured on a television show and highly commended by celebrities. The place exudes this tribal, rustic vibe but the food itself is served with an enormous tropic touch. The halo-halo is served in a coconut, complete with mini-umbrella on the side. It’s aesthetically pleasing, is all I can say. You be the judge of its taste. Nothing so spectacular in that aspect, IMHO.

Halo-Halo De Iloko Feels — The place has that native, rustic vibe. You can find pieces inspired from the provinces up north.

Tribal Mask, Halo-Halo De Iloko — Oh, it has nails for eyes!

Halo-Halo de Iloko and Patron Celebs — Celebs Been Here, Apparently

Baler

Recently, there’s a clamor from the people of the South to go visit this place 274km from Manila. Baler’s popularity is on the rise. Check out the places that we’ve been:

Millennium Tree

Contrary to its name, this enormous tree is actually a parasite. Balete is a parasite that lives off of its host, and this one has been doing so for the last 600 years. With 60m in crown diameter and 65m in height, it’s the Biggest Balete Tree in Asia. You can go through the tree by going under and over it’s twisted branches and roots.

The Biggest Balete Tree in Asia — It’s a tree, right? A parasite, but yeah, still a tree!

Millennium Tree Marker — So, you want to know more about the Biggest Balete Tree in Asia?

Diguisit Bay

The jutting rock formations and the irregular shoreline of Diguisit bay make it a sight to behold. This pebbly beach lies 13.9km from Sabang.

Rock Formations, Diguisit Bay — Those rocks appear rough and sharp, a stark contrast to the smooth, serene waters.

Mother Falls

If you’re up for a bit of hike, then you should go see Mother Falls. Vehicle parking area is a bit far from where the hike actually starts so bring all your essentials with you. There’s no “formal” accommodation here, so if you decide to bathe in the falls, you got to trek down and change in one of the local shops. The coconut fields on the slopes plus the challenging track along the river makes the trip worth it.

In and Around Town

We also went around town to explore other interesting sites. The Hanging Bridge is a joy to jumped on. There’s a small museum here, featuring oil paintings, religious artifacts and treasured photos of Manuel and Aurora Quezon. You can see historical markers along some streets. And as in anywhere in the Philippines, if the Church is within sight, you’d be sure to find the town hall and the market close by.

Balay ni Aurora Quezon — This house is the picture of affluence during the early 20th century. It’s owned by Aurora Quezon.

Clothes Drying in the Sun — In many provinces, up and down Luzon, this sight of clothes drying under the sun is ordinary. I’m just envious that in these parts, the river stays pristine.

Hanging Bridge, Baler Aurora — Tranquil waters below, bright skies above and verdant hills and mountains all around! Too bad I didn’t get to cross all the way.

Historical Market, Aurora Quezon — Dedicated to Aurora Queaon, Civic Leader and First Lady of the Philippines under the First Commonwealth

Historical Marker, Birthplace of Manuel Quezon — Manuel L. Quezon, Indomitable crusader of Philippine Independence

Subic

I like the roads going to Central Luzon. They just seem to stretch on forever. And the silhouette of the mountain range in front of you just urge you to move onward.

Subic Bay

Ocean Adventure

Yep, as the name implies, this place highlights creatures from the ocean! So have a video of cute dolphins strutting their stuff to some hip dance craze!

That’s all for my tours up north and central Luzon. I may be able to travel to other provinces soon. If you want to recommend more interesting places, share it on the comments box below!

As always, thanks for dropping by!

Up North Adventures Part I: Exploring the Culture, Nature and History of Ilocos

Here in the Philippines, up north refers to Regions I and II. Places like Ilocos and La Union are usually top of mind. They’re almost synonymous to verdant hills, lush mountains, and frothy seas. This two-part post explores places you may want to visit up north. Ilocos is up first!

Ilocos Norte

Pagudpud Beach

Let’s start at a place 560km from Manila, where the seashore just glow crystal against the sun. The soothing blow of the wind syncs in time with the rambunctious splash of the waters. Over and over the waves roll… beckoning, inviting, enticing you to swim and bask in the sun. This is Pagudpud.

There are several hotels and inns around the area. There’s also a public beach for when you just want to make a quick day tour (which is what we did).

Locals wading in the water, Pagudpud Shore

Pagudpud Shore — You can almost hear the sea heaving. Watch out, the froth’s coming!

Bangui Windmills

So much like loyal sentinels standing at 70m and 326m apart, these 20 Vestas wind turbines face the West Philippine Sea and bravely harness the wind’s energy. Altogether, they produce 33 MW – enough to power more than 20,000 homes (1MW: 645 Houses, based on this article).

In these parts, the waves can rise as high as 4m as they roll and slam to the shores. The wind pulls on your clothes, nudges you a bit, and blows your hair all over the place. Don’t take anything light with you, because once the wind tugs on it, you can never have it back.

Bangui Wind Mill — A wind mill seen from the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

Souvenir Shops in Bangui Wind Farm — The souvenir shops along the shore of the Bangui Bay. You’ll wonder how these huts withstand the strong winds. They all look weary and forlorn.

The Marshland along the Coast — More wind mills set up along the coast of West Philippine sea.

Bangui Wind Mills — Let have some perspective on how tall these sentries are.

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

The man-made wind turbines are awesome, but the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation is an equally breathtaking sight of nature in action. Oceanic and weather forces caused the rock’s creamy white and streamlined formation. It’s Mother Nature being harsh and beautiful at the same time.

Lam-Ang vs Nature — Lam-ang facing off with a powerful crocodile. Lam-ang is the hero of the Ilocano epic, Biag ni Lam-ang (The Life of Lam-ang).

Laoag Sand Dunes

It’s the most thrilling, action-packed, adventure-filled 20-min ride of your life! Well, sort of. I wish I didn’t always had to slam on that metal bar, though. Hurts the chest, man! But the 4×4 ride has its own moments of glory! Like when it dove down a slope close to 90 degrees, or it stopped on top of a hill to give you this breathtaking view of the surrounding area. It’s all worth it. Like, thank-God-I’m-alive-to-see-this-moment worth it.

But the sand dunes really look divine, especially from afar, where you can see the straw-colored grass cover the hills like velvet, swayed from time to time by the gentle morning breeze.

You can also surf your way down the slopes, whether you want do it standing or sitting down is up to you. You’ll really enjoy it. Plus, you get to pay a visit to the West Philippine Sea.

Welcome to Laoag — Tour companies used to stop by the arc so that visitors can take photos. But it’s now deemed dangerous.

Devotees — The pious and faithful patrons of the Church.

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

This is where you can see one of the most amazing sunsets of your life. As the colors swirl in the sky and the sun decides to rest for the day, the muted scene of the country life steals your breath and holds you in that moment. The roads, for once, are almost empty and faraway. The treetops, meanwhile, are patiently receiving the last vestiges of sunlight. The waves slam into the coasts with such silent anger, they’re froth white and raging. After some time, the orange glow lose its warmth and you anticipate the falling of the night.

The veranda is the only place accessible. From there, you can have a wide view of the mountains, the forest and the sea. This Lighthouse is a National Historical Treasure. It’s still active today.

St. Augustine Church of Paoay

The Paoay Church is one of the Philippines’ National Cultural Treasures. Also, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I’ve longed to get here, but not exactly for religious reasons. It’s always been my dream to touch something that’s been around during the early 18th century. I want to see and touch a legit Baroque structure. The bricks were actually made from baked corals. The church was under construction when we visited. I can only imagine how’d the sermon sound like bouncing off those ancient walls.

You’ll enjoy walking along the brick pavements or taking a short walk around the garden. The lawn is well-kept. There’s also the PAOAY brick structure where you can take selfies or groupfies. Opposite the church are shops where you can rest and eat.

St. Augustine Church, Baroque Structure — Isn’t it just divine? One of the lasting Baroque structures in the country, St. Augustine Church of Paoay was founded in the 18th Century.

Historical Marker found at the Church's Entrance of Paoay Church — Historical Marker found at the Entrance of Paoay Church

Malacañang of the North

It’s a big house, ~~built for selfish reasons~~. Imelda Marcos had the house built as a birthday present to his late husband, Ferdinand Marcos. The tour guide made sure to let us know that only fine materials were used to build the house.

As I was climbing that grand, Narra staircase, I thought about the children they could have sent to school had they chose to use simpler materials. Or if they had chosen to not build the house at all. Meanwhile, another tourist started chanting Oro, Plata, Mata and was truly delighted to know that the top landing coincides with Oro! Feng Shui wins!

There were several large rooms for owners and halls for visitors. Family photos adorn the walls. Some has been converted into museums or study. The veranda’s overlooking the serene waters of Paoay Lake. Such a shame, really! The grandeur of the place doesn’t compensate the rotten morals of the ones who had it built.

Meeting Hall, Malacañang of the North — One of the many Meeting Halls in Malacañang of the North

Masagana 99, as featured on the wall of the Museum in Malacañang of the North

Rant Galore!

Oh, and when we were in this hall that highlights the accomplishments of the Marcos regime, one visitor couldn’t contain his delight at how awesome President Marcos was! But his high didn’t last long, he was immediately reminded that those projects were done using the taxpayers’ money. It’s only right that they get done. It came with your rights as a responsible citizen, you’re entitled to such service because you lived up to your part of the deal. The projects were not outside the President’s scope of work. AH26 deserves commendation, though.

I’ll stop here, lest my political views muddle this post even more. Though I can’t understand why this seemingly useless thing is on display along with Imelda’s other collections? This article from The Guardian sure claimed that she also collects arts of the Masters. Shame, that fine structure of a wall should be graced with equally fine work of arts don’t you think? ‘Nuff said.

The Legend of Lake Paoay

What the water occupies now used to be a town full of rich people. But they grew greedy and they turn poor people away. So, the Heavens decided to punish them with heavy rains that eventually flooded the town. Not one of the residents have been seen since then. Locals suspect that all of them has turned into fish! One fisherman actually caught a fish with gold earrings on. Also, no one ever found out how deep the lake goes. The Late President Ferdinand Marcos even commissioned divers to measure the depth of the Lake, but none has ever succeeded.

The smooth, serene surface of Paoay Lake

Ilocos Sur

Calle Crisologo

It’s superficial to say the least. I may be lacking in appreciation, but I’m happy that we get to preserve some of it. You can just amuse yourself with the bustling crowd.

Abby Road vs Calle Crisologo — Sorry, I can’t help it. It’s just so right!

Bantay Bell Tower

Ancient edifice watching over the city, utilized by the Katipuneros during the Revolution. You’d think that inside is as hot as an oven, but it’s actually quite cool. The sight at the top more than compensates your effort for climbing up the many flights of stairs.

Historical Markers in Ilocos

Historical markers are sporadically spread throughout Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. And not surprisingly so, because Philippine history boasts a great number of distinguished individuals who hailed from this part of the country.

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If you want a place with the right amount of nature and history, then head to Ilocos. Arrange the trip with a local tourism agency or with your friends. You’ll not regret it.

As always, thanks for dropping by!

Cebu City – What the Oldest City in the Philippines Has to Offer

Dubbed as the Queen City of the South, Cebu City is a bustling metropolis filled with riches, both from the past and present. Below are some of the places the oldest city in the Philippines has to offer!

Top Spots in Cebu City

Basilica Minore del Santo Niño

It’s hailed as the mother and head of all Catholic churches in the Philippines. Devoted Catholics must have put this shrine into their must-go-to list for their pilgrimage. I may not be one of them, but to set foot at a place as historic and important as this is, is definitely one of my dreams come true.

The outer halls were lined with oil paintings. In them are scenes that held historical and religious milestones. There’s a special place where you can line up and see the Philippines’ most beloved Santo Niño sculpture. I don’t know about any other Christian countries of the world, but know that even in a public place as this, the moment a devotee come face to face with the idol, it becomes the most private, the most intimate place of all. It’s the kind of private moment when instead of looking away, you’ll want to look on and share in the devotion. I’m not even a Catholic. But the emotion, the gestures, the faith that’s being made visible at the moment is so hard to ignore.

Magellan’s Cross

Outside the Basilica stood the enduring witness of Catholicism in the Philippines, the Magellan’s Cross. The wooden cross is just a replica, with the original one buried within it. How many layers of crosses buried within each other would we see? One thing is for sure, it will stand as long as the city professes the faith in Christ.

You can light colorful candles and help out the local ladies make a living. They said that the wishes you make when you light the candles will come true. It’s faith…it’s all on faith.

Taoist Temple

On the other side of the town though, stands the Philippine Taoist Temple. It’s a place that honors oriental teaching. Originally from China, Taoism is the religion of opposites – yin and yang, dark and light, etc. How apt that it should be here in Cebu City, a land of opposites.

Tabo-an Market

Haggle for the dried fishes all you want, just be ready with the strong smell coming off of this place. It can really stick to your clothes for the rest of the day. So if you’re touring Cebu, this place should be the last one to go to.

In and Around Cebu City

The Ayala Center here is so nice, especially at night. It’s so much like the ones we have in Manila, but I like the grounds here much better. It’s been 3 years now, so maybe something has changed since then. There’s also this Mexican restaurant, Moon Cafe in the place. The best nacho I had, ever!

We stayed at Diamond Suites and Residences. Perfect place to get to anywhere because it’s in the heart of the metro. Also, it’s convenient to go to these places from here. Nightly rates are reasonable and accommodation is nice and clean. The bed is awesome too!

Then there’s Cafe Namoo, kind of cute, with small compartments and yellow lighting. Perfect for high school and college people. Best thing is it’s practically a freedom board.

Larsian is also an interesting place. It’s a food complex, where fresh seafood and meat vendors line around. Patrons then sit on plastic chairs and eat on long tables at the center. Your food gets to be cooked and served there and then. You won’t need utensils, by the way. Enjoy eating with your hands (with plastic gloves).

Loved ones would always request lechon as pasalubong, but the small longanizas taste wonderful as well.

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The last time I was around the town, we dined in this place called Abaca Boutique Resort and Restaurant. It’s real nice, so serene a place. We toured around and saw that the rooms are spacious; the lounge, relaxing. The food, served nice and delicious. We dropped by this place to dine. I was with corporate people then. But this place is more for couples and families.

The view from Abaca Boutique Resort and Restaurant

Cebu City would always be a memorable place for me. I worked here. I learned so much here. I’ve been to places that I only read about before. And I’ve been with people I never thought I’d come across this lifetime. And I was glad, that even in the seemingly mundane and natural occurrence of it all, somehow, I formed part of this city’s history.

As always, thanks for dropping by!

What’s a Filipino?

A month or so ago, I found this true-blue Filipino blog called The Pinoy Warrior. I went around the website and found content that’s really informative and credible. Author does research really well. But, among all his articles about Filipino culture, traditions and celebrations, I noticed he doesn’t have any entries about the definition of Filipinos.

It was around the same time that I came across Nick Joaquin’s statement:

“The identity of the Filipino today is of a person asking what is his identity.”

So I went ahead and wrote an email, asking if he can make an article about it. And he didn’t disappoint.

A Take on Filipino Identity covers Filipino history, the author’s experience and what he sees at the moment. It’s a very reflective work and very consistent with what Joaquin had to say.

“So who is the Filipino? No one can really say… Today it is a state of mind and a choice, for each and everyone who proudly says I am Filipino.” – Russell Lorenzo

There are distinct Filipino traits, then there’s our environment and the legacy of our past, and the influences that’s shaping our society at present. In all of these, we can see fragments of what it’s like to be Filipino. If we zoom out and attempt to make sense of it all, our interpretations will be varied and irregular.

This isn’t at all bad, because we can have great opportunities for growth and development as a nation. But it’s also our main drawback. Are these traits and traditions enough to bind us in one thought? Does our history make us closer and help us identify with each other?

But we’re a young nation. And maybe we’re at experimental (confused) stage. We’re slowly discovering who we are. And with all these things that we’re doing and exposed to right now, we’ll find that certain and absolute identity that we’re searching for.

Thank you, Russell for such great work!

Photo Credit: Cebu Bluewaters

Anong ibig sabihin ng Pilipino?

Anong ibig sabihin ng ‘Pilipino’? Anong kapalaran ng isang babaeng nakikinig sa magulang? At lahat ba ng taong umiibig, lumiligaya?

Kumusta?

Muntik ko nang malimutan kung para kanino ang blog na ‘to. At dahil buwan ngayon ng Agosto, ipinagdiriwang sa Pilipinas ang buwan ng wikang Filipino.

Ang mga sumusunod ay hango sa mga istorya, tula o librong isinulat ng mga Pinoy. Maaaring popular ang ilan sa mga ito, ang iba nama’y parte na ng literaturang Filipino.

Imahe mula sa: mag3737 via photopin cc

“Don’t say Fili, sister. Say Pili. In Tagalog, pili means to choose. Pino means fine. Pilipino equals fine choice.” – Jessica Hagedorn

Imahe mula sa: seyed mostafa zamani via photopin cc

“Me quota ang pag-ibig. Sa bawat umiibig, isa lang ang magiging maligaya. Ang iba, iibig sa di sila iniibig. Ang iba, iibig sa di sila iniibig, iibig nang di natututo. O iibig sa wala. O di iibig kailanman.” – Ricky Lee

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“Nakalimutan na ng tao ang kabanalan n’ya, na mas marami pa s’yang alam kesa sa nakasulat sa Transcript of Records n’ya, mas marami pa s’yang kayang gawen kesa sa nakalista sa resume n’ya, at mas mas mataas ang halaga n’ya kesa sa presyong nakasulat sa payslip n’ya tuwing suweldo.” – Bob Ong

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“Ang lalakeng nakikinig sa magulang, masunurin. Ang babaeng nakikinig sa magulang, baka maging old maid!” – Stanley Chi

Imahe mula sa: The Wandering Angel via photopin cc

Mula sa panulat ni Genoveva Edroza Matute

“Sa wikang nanulay na, sa panulat o hininga;

Ay wala nang hahapis pa, sa salitang ‘sana’…’sana’….”