eating halfway

Mt. Pulag

2012-02-17T03:51:00.001-08:00

coming soon!

Photowalking Halfway Manila

2012-02-10T10:41:00.001-08:00

I have shared this as a slide show in my multiply and in an album in facebook accounts but I think it deserves a space in this humble blog of mine. It was the last photowalk of the year in 2009 for the group flickristasindios of which I am lucky enough to be part of. How luckier can I get by having accepted in a group that does not only share passion for the art of photography but more, these people share different causes such as education as you can see in my previous post about Teresa, Rizal. To know more, you can visit the flickr and facebook accounts of the group.
The Birdrunner. I do not know what to call what these vendor sells, is it artificial bird? or a plane? made of paper? or plastic? Being The Kiterunner is a favorite movie of mine, making me study the song ‘Supplication’ after i watched it. I think this photo is an appropriate ‘personalization’ (excuse my selfish use of the term, never mind if it’s correct or not) of that movie with the Quiapo Church and the people around it in the backdrop. I just hoped to have taken it with the bird flying above.
Question and Answer portion. Kuya Jojo “Jobarracuda” Pensica talking to a lay woman who I presume to be a worker in the church. I like my group mates that way, they go beyond photography and really get involved by getting to know the people we see in the streets while doing photography. Ang lakas lang maka Q&A in a beauty contest, naka-sash pa si Lola sa picture na ito.
Kids. There are a lot of them in the streets of Manila. Some of them ready to pose and even ready to perform in front of the camera. They are fun and happy where they are. However, I look forward to the day when they are not anymore on the streets but in nurturing homes of their own or in schools where they can get the proper education.

Riding in Tandem. From Jones Bridge to Sta. Cruz or is it already the popular AVenida? At the back is what I only know to be the BPI Building. The architecture looks to me like the Far Eastern University (FEU).
On the other side of the buiding, a couple is waiting… for valentines day? This is in December. Just some random scenes you see on the street that not only puts color to your pictures but a story to the places where the photos are taken.

A jeepney and a car coming from the direction of Regina Building. It so happened that a doctor friend and member of the flickristasindios is named the same as the said buiding. So this photo goes out to Doc Reg as before, when I first posted this in flickr.
Arch of Goodwill (Arko ng Mabuting Pakikisama) welcomes you to Manila Chinatown. The design of the arch is very Chinese as the jeepney which has become one of the symbols of Filipino ingenuity strengthens the symbolism of Filipino-Chinese friendship.
Ongpin Street. Coricks chats with a kuchero, Kalesa’s still take you down the memory lane as you enjoy places like these in Manila.
Yellow Car. i just enjoy taking pictures of these. From my archives, I think I can come up with an album on cars with this color.
Chinese Version. If it’s in Binondo, it should have Chinese translation. I had a lot of fun seeing this for the first time. I felt like I was in entirely new country. Makes me smile up to now.
Park at your own risk. This is below a building under construction. Manong Kuchero is just so relaxed, the horse I guess is nervous.
The Past and The Future. A Chinese-inspired building face to face or edifice to edifice with a newly constructed condo-building it seems. The effects I made from picnick here makes it look magical, ako talaga nagsabi, hehe.
Streetlight. Cool and dramatic.
Charging Station. These boys enjoy charging their cellfone in an electrical outlet outside a closed establishment.
Confused. Nalito lang ako sa pag-edit nito. Yun lang.
Kuya Jo crossing the drainage to let me photograph his reflection on the water.
Just before exiting Binondo for Jones Bridge, this corner building is a favorite stop for me. At one time I even edited the sky as it was dark then. This one has just the right amount of sunlight and a jeepney. Pietro. One of the cargo ships docked near Jones Bridge.
And Timothy, his compadre on the other side of the river. I like calling them by their names and think of them like people.
Along Jones Bridge, the Manila Central Post Office (MCPO) stands in all its glory.
I miss this fresh people. By the National Press Club, Indios take a stop. Denbote is very cautious of what I might do to them here.
Walled. This means we have entered the premises of Intramuros and this I believe is part of the Intendencia/Aduana’s walls.
A marker of the centennial of Mexico’s maritime expedition in the Philippines.
King Philip of Spain from whom the name of this country is taken from.
The Manila Cathedral. In all its majesty.
And because it is Valentine season, I’ve got to share this beautiful and candid photo of this lovebirds. Reejoie and Coricks are now known as The Ibarras.
Photographing the photographer. Seahawk, ladies and gentlemen. we are now in Baywalk, Roxas Boulevard.
Many photographers wait for that special moment when the sun sets and calls it a day.
And it goes like this.
What to do in Baywalk aside from photography, walk or jog? Enjoy the streetfood!
Enjoy the lights and the moonlit sky.
Or chat with friends.
Play around with this kids.
And don’t forget to drop by Malate Church to say a little prayer before heading home.
I chose to post this because The Pinoy Explorer said he is already missing photowalks on his FB wall post today. I agree with him.

The Most Pleasant City in Asia

2012-02-03T19:40:00.001-08:00

It was my first time then to visit Tagaytay City. I have forgotten which came first a date or this particular trip as the first one didn’t have good evidence as i forgot to bring a camera that time. This particular trip really is for us to learn about ISO 9001 standard and we were billeted at the Tagaytay Country Hotel which is part of the Olivarez Complex where the bus terminal is located.

Just after the first day session was through, my photography buddies whose photos you will see later, we headed for the nearby circle at the heart of the city with character… Contentment was the message I read on that signage by the statue.

Back to the photowalk, it was really interesting to see the lights from one color to another.

We had fun taking photos while Kuya Arnel and Ate Mayet were giving me lessons that I have forgotten…. Sorry guys, teach me again please!

From green here…

To blue green.

Violet and me catching the speed of light (of a vehicle passing by).

Turning yellow here and red below.

Here’s a photo of one of my favorite travel buddy Ate Mayet with Kuya Dom, her husband. Next, Ate Mayet with Kuya Arnel, they are my photography buddies who did a photowalk in the cool winds of Tagaytay. BBBRRRR!!!

The morning after, with me having a hard time waking up early but was still able to get a few of these shots of the place around our hotel.

As the sun begins to shine, Tagaytay never fails to amuse me given the number of times I have been to the place. I want to keep coming back for more.

The greeneries and the well-lit sky is already a sight to behold. I can stay at my room all day and just observe the day unfold with its changing colors, but I opt to explore with friends as I have not much time unlike if I have a property there and will be able to stay for a longer time.

Can I not say anything about this photo anymore? Just one of my favorite things, colored skies.

And do I see myself loving frames in whatever form I can see them. They’re a great highlighter to photographs.

And clouds, reminds me of how it used to be in the province in my childhood, looking at the sky and wondering if this sky above is really a bottom of another ocean in another dimension that is why clouds sometimes are shaped like fish and moving towards a certain direction. =)



Another night of ours was spent exploring the other facilities of the hotel which we couldn’t enjoy as much as we are busy.



The swimming pool. too cold to swim so just took this photo for a remembrance. It just looks very relaxing and at peace.

And my gang back then who I still miss so much up to now. People really complete our journeys, their company, their friendship – a treasure that we must be thankful for. Until next week’s featured halfway journey.

Daytripping Teresa, Rizal

2012-01-28T03:39:00.000-08:00

It was just a day trip yet a very meaningful one. One you wish could be done more often, another place very near the city.

Merely 32 kilometers away from the city of Manila by land transportation, Teresa, Rizal envisions itself to be a progressive, peaceful and ecologically balance community.

For a different tourism experience this quaint little town boasts of its Integrated Solid Waste Management Facility (ISWF), St. Martha's Farm and Teresa Orchard.

A small pond at the ISWF

Of the three, we side-tripped by the ISWF back in 2008. Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro benchmarked with Teresa, Rizal in establishing their own facility. The products made in the facility were supposed to be featured on entrepjournal.blogspot.com, but I changed my mind, hehe.

Organic Fertilizer production from municipal waste

Concrete products with plastics and other non-biodegradable materials

The organic fertilizer

Their version of charcoal briquettes

Garden bricks

Views such as these and the photos above provide you that quiet, laid-back provincial feeling after a short ride away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

While looking at these great views of the mountain, you then realize you are standing in a plantation of vegetables.

These vegetables are grown using organic fertilizers from the town's garbage collection.

Vegetables vines that seem to reach out to the heavens above.

Photographing the photographer. This is Ate Luz.

This is just a side trip so I'll be taking you little by little to why I came to be in this place back then.

Her view of the mountain. I don't know if this is natural stone exposed or was this a quarry/mine as industrial companies such as Republic Cement Corporation (La Farge Cement Corp.), Teresa Marble Corporation and ABC Corporation are located in this town.

The nursery

Mitchshelle

The vegetation/greeneries are very healthy here mainly due to organic fertilizer application.

Photographers in action

Members of the photography group flickristasindios (who organized the activity that resulted to this side trip) take the opportunity to shoot vegetables.

Sunscreened

More of the vegetable plantation

Children enjoying the swing

Miss Earth 2008 candidates visited this place as part of their activities. Mitch poses like a contestant here.

Beautiful flowers surround the ISWF

More flowers

We snacked on corn

And peanuts

Aside from the goto which we ate halfway with the kids. It was partnered with gulaman

Kuya Jojo, a ninuno, (what we flickristasindios call our leaders) talks to the kids, their parents and teachers

Now for the real reason for that day trip, was the flickristasindios, the Children International - Philippines Housing Foundation, Inc. and Pantay Elementary School's Book Sharing Project. I remembered posting this as Mitch was talking of an outreach activity during the first mamam session as she returned from her visit to Kuya Jojo and Ate Lani in China.

Angge, does a bookreading session with the kids as part of the program

The happy beneficiary-kids with Kuya Jo and the Pinoy Explorer

At the gates of Pantay Elementary School

Calamba: City of Growth and National Pride

2012-01-20T19:34:00.000-08:00

Calamba City was a place I frequented during a colorful time in my life. I passed by it first during a high school press conference in Sta. Cruz, Laguna, passed by it more often during my trips to my hometown.

St. John The Baptist Church

This church is amazing not only because of the architecture and age being built in the 19th century, but more so because of certain practices that I have not seen anywhere else yet. For one, female churchgoers still wear or are provided with a veil during communion.

Floor tiles

I am always fascinated with old style floor tiles. I think I have a collection of photos on this that I need to make an album of.

A blurred shot of the ceiling towards the altar.

The church gives you that feeling of nostalgia, of the old world. I could imagine how people prayed here during the Spanish times. It is where Jose P. Rizal, my peg, was baptized three days after he was born on June 22, 1861.

The Rizal Shrine

I was able to enter the Rizal Shrine first in high school during that regional press conference. Every student should be able to have that experience of going places where history happened.

Lighted streets of Calamba

Going around the city is easy via tricycle and it was nice to see well-lighted streets. Makes one feel safe. Our towns and cities should be just like that.

Liana's Discount City

Before SM City Calamba, Liana's was the to go place for people especially in Parian. It was just nice to look back at the beautiful things in Calamba and see them now again when growth and development has happened already. Gotta pay another visit to this city soon.

Meeting Halfway in Orani, Bataan

2012-01-13T11:06:00.000-08:00

It is one of those unique trips that I would remember in life. Imagine only being introduced to new contacts through text. Meeting new faces halfway is made even more meaningful when these people are good to the point of comfort that you already forget that you've just met. They easily become like your closest friends, your family, after a bus ride, a sleepover, a church, a wedding...

Upon arrival at a supermarket in Orani, Bataan, I am still a little distant here...

The strangers I texted and met at the bus station in Manila for the trip to Orani, Bataan, are friends of the couple getting married who used to work at that time in Kaoshiung, Taiwan where they met and fell in love. Most of them are from the Jesus is Lord (JIL) chapter in that part of the globe.

It was the wedding of my high school pal, Rudy (light blue shirt) to Reign (pink striped shirt)

And before I proceed with the people I was with during this trip, let me share the beauty I have found - a lot of grass, plants and flowers. Here, have some:

The quaint little town is a haven for bees locally known as pukyutan, here's what I found that made it to a certain website:

Here's that screen grab:

After the ecosystem exploration, we enjoyed eating the following food at the house of the family of the bride:

Grilled chicken soup, I think it is a local delicacy in Orani. Do you know this dish?

Here, Charo (hello!) is enjoying the shrimps

Atis for dessert

Vidal, the wedding singer and Edna playing around

Let's meet the bride and groom, now husband and wife already due to the 'historical significance of this post:

Rudy and Lorena already opening presents the night before the wedding

And on the wedding day, my camera was limited at the groom's room as I was participating at the ceremony as the best man, to be fair to Reign, I'm posting the photos in smaller sizes here:

Entrance of the resort opposite the venue of the wedding

And the next photo/s will already be about the post-wedding reception merry-making:

The last three pictures were from the day after the wedding as I joined them visit a friend also from Kaoshiung. We were closer to each other as the days progressed, from the meeting at the bus station, the trip to Orani and the bonding that went with it. I was happy to have met them courtesy of Rudz and Reign. I could still vividly remember the day we went back to Manila, one by one getting off the bus, with some still with me at the LRT and then finally having to say goodbye to the last few ones. Such wonderful people, they were a blessing. I hope to see them again. I would like to end this entry by saying that sometimes it is not really the journey nor the destination, they simply become the venue, a setting where friendship happens. It is the people you will meet halfway, eat halfway with and be with for a certain period of time that makes the trip worthy. Til next entry!

Reading/Researching/Training: It's More Fun at FHL!

2012-01-06T07:56:00.000-08:00

I was introduced to this place when we were given the opportunity to enroll at the course Digital 101: Photography and the Computer by Jay Alonzo in September 2008. Filipinas Heritage Library (FHL) was the same provider of our training on a certain topic on Filipino customs and traditions way back when I was starting out my public service career.

Digital 101: Photography and the Computer by Jay Alonzo

I was amazed by how the library presents itself. If all libraries were like this, not boring but exciting, then students, researchers and even the general public would be enticed to come and visit. Although the library serves as a one-stop electronic library of Filipiniana books and other resources, visiting the place for reading or in-depth research on certain topics or taking a course that is offered in the venue is an experience that I recommend to everyone.

Libros Filipinos Filipiniana Specialty Bookstore/Bookshop

One of the books I saw and photographed during the time, a search on the website gave these information: This book tells the story of the Premio Zobel, the oldest literary award in the Philippines, which was instituted by Don Enrique Zobel de Ayala to revivify the Spanish language in the Philippines, and to honor and promote the best Filipino writing in Spanish. Over the last 80 years, this most prestigious award has been bestowed on well-known writers, poets, journalists, teachers, lawyers, doctors, and other personages who wrote to express themselves in the language they love.

With what I saw here three years ago, I dream of doing this/seeing this being done in our science libraries in the region and it's provinces. It is one of our services and information is a great provision for our people to make it through. Students, researchers and the general public ought to be informed on the latest technologies that matter in their studies, businesses and in their daily lives, hence, library service ought to be highlighted in a way like this.

Creativity in showcasing library holdings is the key.

There I go with my bias in favor of Science and Technology. But I wanted to say that every municipality/city got to have a library/museum on the heritage of their province/locality so that locals and travelers alike already get one place to visit for complete information.

Interiors of the library

Housed in the Nielson Tower, the former control tower of one of Asia’s first airports, and also the oldest building in the Makati Central Business District, the interiors provide that nostalgic feeling and experience when you visit the place.

Ceiling

Ifugao Coffee on exhibit

Sugar for the coffee

The Filipiniana gallery contains images that were part of the gallery exhibit located at the basement of the
Filipinas Heritage Library. These images, for the most part, came from the Library's own image collection. The exhibits showcase the history of the Philippines as depicted through photographs.

Filipiniana Gallery

From the inside, you get the view of scenes in Makati Avenue.

View of Makati Avenue

And as the time was one of my formal training in photography which sadly I guess I didn't learn much as I will honestly confess that I know I will forever be a photography hobbyist and will not be able to achieve that level of technicality. Now that I have explained and tried to justify, here are my workshop outputs during that time, don't ask me to name what/which workshop are they, I have explained already. =)

Inside a cup

A fountain along Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave.

Ceiling

Dusk

Twin towers

More of Eating Halfway in 2012

2011-12-30T21:06:00.001-08:00

My sixth dream as written in my yearly resolutions (now on it’s second year) is to travel more locally with at least one travel abroad and to blog more about them. The passion for writing and sharing started as I young age when I dreamed of becoming part of our official school publication. Travelling followed later when works entailed a lot of travelling and knowing more about my beautiful province of Occidental Mindoro.

This blog turns one year on January 1, 2011 but earlier posts were from my former friendster blog dating as far back as 2008 and 2009 and another post from my wordpress blog. The weekly posts made me able to tell the history of myself and my experiences as a traveller by ‘luck’ that I call myself. However, doing so without a concrete plan made me leave behind the following travels/ experiences. These items on the list would give me a good 6 months worth of post if done on a weekly basis. I will try to do more than that this year. Coming soon are the following:

~~Alcove, Ayala, Makati City~~
Baguio City
~~Bataan~~
Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro
~~Calamba, Laguna~~
Calapan City Church
Cubao, Quezon City
Festival Supermall, Alabang
Food Channel, Greenfield District
Gerry’s Grill, Market! Market!, Taguig City
Guilligan’s, Makati City
Hades Bar, Quezon City
Halfway the Manila Walk Series (3)
Island Cove, Binakayan, Cavite City
Manila – Batangas – San Jose, Occidental Mindoro
Mary Mediatrix Medical Center, Lipa City (medical tourism)
MMLDC, Antipolo City
Quirino Grandstand, Manila
San Mateo, Rizal
Seafood Island, Market! Market!, Taguig City
Subic Bay, Zambales
~~Tagaytay City~~ (2-1=1)
~~Teresa, Rizal~~
The Medical City (medical tourism)
Tiara Oriental Hotel, Makati City
Trinoma, Quezon City
UP Los Banos, Laguna

Finishing the above list of halfway encounters with places, people and food will make this blog a lifetime work. Having said and listed the above stock of travel posts awaiting my time and attention, that would not stop me from listing the following dream travels for 2012:

Bella Roca Resort (daytrip man lang), Marinduque
Carabao Island (San Jose), Romblon
Cagbalete Island
Coron, Palawan
Davao City
Dumaguete City
El Nido, Palawan
Grace Island, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro
Pandan Island, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro
Sagada
Thailand kaya?
Vigan World Heritage Site
Windmills of Bangui

Hey, don't get me wrong. This is not limited to what's on the list. Of course I have a lot more in my mind but to be more practical that's the list. So if opportunity comes, please look for me. Allow me, puh-lease! =)

I was further inspired to travel and blog this year by becoming a member of the Pinoy Travel Bloggers (PTB). I was encouraged by Kuya Ding (The Pinoy Explorer) and was accepted by Gay (The Pinay Solo Backpacker). Thanks to all the members for the warm welcome, I hope to meet you all guys and maybe join you in our pursuit to realize our travel dreams not only for ourselves but for the development of Philippine tourism as well. Most of all, thanks to all those who took and will be taking time to see not only my posts but the experiences and thoughts that add to the person that I am in these halfway journeys.

Thank you Lord for the resources, the passion and all the gifts you continue to provide to all of us. Have a positive, safe and prosperous New Year, everyone!

Christmas in the Deep

2011-12-26T07:51:00.001-08:00

Although we have been discussing it on few occasions, a rather unplanned activity was decided upon by the decision-makers (brother and I) to go to the Manila Ocean Park rather than try scouring the Mall of Asia to find an activity that would fit for the four of us (we and Natay – short for Nanay and Tatay).

Upon arrival, we first had to queue for the tickets (I knew it!) which starts from the facade of the complex. It was quite long but fast moving, nevertheless. When just a few steps to the ticket windows, I and the parents had to leave brother alone at the line to go to the CRs to heed to the call of nature. It was fortunate that the two ladies ahead of us found someone who took them to hidden CRs which made everything easier for us as the female line where Nanay is going to was a bit long and slow-moving.

After the restrooms we just waited inside for Brother (the time it took us to get tickets was an hour or so, according to him). I on the other hand bought some water, buchi, nachos, and fried custard buns to snack on while waiting for the tickets. When he texted he was to enter the mall area where a show of clowns performing stunts to the beat of the drums, we already lined up as the queue to the Oceanarium’s entrance could get quite long at some instances.

Upon entering, it was this forest/park theme that welcomed us. To me, it was first caves, brackishwater as creatures like turtles, starfishes, among others were found here. It represents going up the mountains, hence the stairs which bring you to the crocodiles and all the greeneries, then stairs bring you down again which brings you to the sea (aquariums) with the following creatures (just some of them, there are more), some names of which I have forgotten.

Then we went through the tunnel which was not that big as I expected it to be. It was quite hot under it maybe due to the large number of people taking pictures, spending quality time and just having fun. We did the same but we followed the “no flash policy”. Was it just a thing for the animals? If it was communicated well maybe they would have followed too. Sadly, others didn’t maybe because they did not understand and no one was monitoring and making sure that it is followed.

And to the sharks, some swimming and some resting.

We went out, passed by CR and some water and earth exhibits, through Antarctica before heading out to the view of this sunset. The sun has always been hidden beyond the clouds. Whether I took it from Baywalk, it looked the same.

We headed for dinner at Yoshinoya, ate quickly and didn’t get to take photos of the food to blog and lined up again for the musical fountain show which features hi-tech fountains (Yes, you thought so), lights and sound spectacle. Sea creatures of course are a major part of the production, from the mascots running and playing around to provide fun for kids and Finding Nemo characters flashed/projected on the fountain wall which serves as the screen.

My realization of this journey just halfway Metro Manila: Do not go to theme parks on a holiday as people flock them at these times. Long lines to the tickets, CRs and taxi are a hassle. Traffic is too much as well. We enjoyed the day-out except the hassles. It would have been more meaningful if we brought with us kids in the clan (in the province) who would have really appreciated the ‘shows’. Nevertheless, the family bonded, had fun, Tatay got to share his expertise in marine biology via his fisherman and unlicensed seaman course in the university called life. It was a Merry Christmas for us, truly a deeper experience. I hope yours was merry as well!

Lantern Showtime at ITM 2.0

2011-12-23T10:47:00.000-08:00

December 21, 2011 was Ignite the Mind (ITM) 2.0 at the Department of Science and Technology. Themed Isulong and Syensya... Pasko ay Ipadama!, the celebrations was held at the DOST Plaza in Bicutan, Taguig City. One of the highlights of the event is the tourism worthy Lantern Showtime contest. Here are the entries:

The world on top of a Christmas Tree

The globe turns and you see its 'starred' core

Yellow, green, red and blue.

A bird!

Farm inspired lantern by PCAARRD.

Cooking pot inspired lantern by FNRI. This won the top prize I heard due to the participation of its Director.

Gift-box on a sleigh with reindeers by ITDI.

High tech LCD visual lantern by TAPI.

Parol and wreath at the same time.

Parol on a cage.

The stars of the Regional Health Research and Development Consortiums.

Mother star PCHRD.

Logo lantern of NRCP.

Fabrics, dyes and more from PTRI.

STII lantern and robotics-inspired SEI lantern.

Forgive me if I could not remember the owners of the other lanterns. Please help me to do it by commenting and telling me if you happen to know/if you are from DOST. Will edit as I discover them. Hope you liked them as you learn what DOST agencies do as you click on the links provided. Merry Christmas!

Christmas Party Post

2011-12-16T20:12:00.000-08:00

It is the Christmas season. I am lucky to have had been busy with THE job and ABLE to travel to three destinations just recently as posted ON this blog. For this week, let me share random food and travel photos as captured by my lowly cellphone. If twitter mobile would have been available in this country, then, I would have microblogged these on my twitter account.

Christmas decor at home

On new year's eve media noche or even on Chrismas eve noche buena, as a tradition I've started since I had money to spend on, a fruit bowl/basket/tray (whatevs!) would be on the dining table not only to go with what the Chinese says are symbolized by round shaped fruits -money but for the obvious reason that it is healthier to eat them. And if there's one or two always at the house it would be these:

Banana

Sintores

Was able to spend a lunchtime at The Chocolate Kiss at the Bahay ng Alumni in UP Diliman. It wasw the first time I heard of it and liked the scholarly but laid back atmosphere of the place. Hainanese chicken rice caught my attention in the menu as I have been hearing about it from blogs and more. It was a big serving. I liked the dip/sauce which included shredded ginger. I would love to eat ginger that way.

Hainanese chicken rice

Here's a pic of the hotel we stayed in at Calapan City, it's where I bumped with The Pinoy Explorer. Please see his take on the view from this place in that blog.

Calapan Bay Hotel

On our way to Brooke's Point, we passed by the new (wet) market in Puerto Princesa City and got too see these giant fish. A thin slice alone weighs more than a kilo.

Tanigue, cut

Tanigue, whole

Here, let me share the prayer notes provided at the Lake Island, Binangonan, Rizal. Nice thoughts are brought by these before you sleep at night.

Welcome notes and prayers

Prayer after work

Excerpts from Desiderata

I attended the first simbang gabi at the United Hills Subdivision which is a jeepney ride from the office. The mass was halfway done when we arrived as we had to wrap things up first at the office. Still glad we were able to make it.

The Church

Then we headed for dinner at a new establishment just outside the subdivision along Service Road - Aryan's. The waitresses were alert and focused as there were just a few tables occupied. I hope they are able to keep the service that way when people get to know them more and start to flock there. The food were just right or did we just order what we liked on the menu. For sure, there are still hidden treasures to be ordered in there.

Fried chicken with tomato salsa

Crispy pancit

A long time ago, I was treated to dinner by my former superiors at the Glorietta Branch of Chef d' Angelo. I liked the plate with pasta, chicken, pizza and a glass of red iced tea in a meal. And just a few months back, brother brought me to the Alphaland branch for a buffet. Though unprepared and still full we digged in and here's what transpired on my plate/s.

Carbonara baby and pizza (chopped)

Soup

Salad

There they are as captured by THE mobile phone. Today, I'll be heading to Christmas get togethers/parties with friends in two locations. Enjoy the holiday spirit, everyone! =)

Lake Island, Binangonan, Rizal

2011-12-12T06:09:00.000-08:00

This is not your typical travel adventure. This one's work just like the many other travel opportunities I have had and shared with you in the past. I am sharing this beautiful place perfect for those who wants to experience some peace and quiet, greens and simple living. Only the luxury of custom-prepared food, professional service and prayers at night.

Not too far from the city, accessible via the C6 Road from Bicutan where I reside and work, Lake Island Retreat and Seminar Center, in Binangonan, Rizal is a great discovery in the office for our planning session this year.

The main purpose of our activity was to come up with a strategic plan for 2012 and beyond.

We did not only accomplish our goal but enjoyed the food as well. The menu was personalized and took the influence of my boss who was a fish lover and vegetarian. So we had all the vegetables and fish that are lutong-bahay (home cooked) made world-class. We enjoyed every meal and all the health benefits that came with it. It was wonderful how a simple home cooked meal came out the way I cannot describe up to now. Just see the interest and motivation on the faces of my office mates as we lined up the buffet table.

Anna, Jeff and Cindy smile to the camera before digging in.

It was a fiesta atmosphere in the dining hall adjacent to our seminar room.

We were satisfied with these services, including our living spaces in huts that extend to the lake water. No television and music at the rooms. You could of course bring your music players/phone and/or laptop which we did because of work but after our sessions, we really felt rested and refreshed. They automatically keep the rooms, no need to put that sign on the doorknob, plus they included sheets of prayer before you sleep. I think they included that because mainly the place is supposed to be a retreat place.

Enjoy each step you take on these walkways that lead to all the amenities of the resort.

It features some swings. A lot of them actually. Children like Allan, will like it.

Another swing and a walking Kuya Bernie.

Enjoy all the flowers you can, no picking though. Photograph them. Adore them with thy eyes.

Appreciate some art too.

We liked almost everything about the resort. It was simple but elegant. Filipino but world-class. But if I may, my only request, fix the shower knobs. At least in our room (2B), we had a hard time figuring out how to operate. On my last day, I had to use the pail and dipper (water conserving though) because I cannot anymore turn the shower on. Travel advice: please ask and if possible ask for a demo on operating the shower, hehe.

But still, I would recommend the place. I think I have said all the needed to be said. I have given Lake Island what feedback/comment and suggestion it is due. For those wanting an escape from the busy city life but cannot go very far, this is a must try.

If you wish to see photos of the place, please see their website linked on the second paragraph. The website best describes the place the way it did. I think I did mine here. There, you got to meet some officemates of mine. Find them on my facebook (wala lang).Our first day photos full of other/maybe more beautiful pictures was erroneously deleted either by someone or the camera daw. Technical problem daw. Sige na. Ginalingan ko na lang pagsusulat. Hehe ulit. =)

Exploring Tourism Opportunities in Brooke’s Point

2011-12-03T02:32:00.001-08:00

I heard of it as a kid as a destination to most inter-island batel that brought products such as timber, among others from my hometown of San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. In 2006, I first had the opportunity to travel to Palawan and pay a visit to the place to visit some projects under DTI-CARP. I remember it as a sleepy town as we visited late lunchtime at the “food court” in the convention center and nothing was really happening then.

Popularly known as the source of the Pearl of Allah or the Pearl of Lau Tzu (Brgy. Oring-oring), and named after Sir James Brooke and that prominent pointed tip of Mt. Maruyog, Brooke’s Point is located 192 kilometers off Puerto Princesa City. As the Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR) gained more popularity from being a finalist to the new seven wonders of nature, the municipality hopes to get even just 10% of tourists visiting PPUR to explore its rich and unspoiled natural beauty. A lot of possibilities is waiting to be uncovered as listed in the history of its barangays.

The trees around the Brooke’s Point Municipal Hall is habitat to a lot of Mamamdyang bird. Noisily chirping their way playing around the dusky sky. I think this is a sign of the rich and good state of environment, not only in Brooke’s Point but in Palawan as a whole.

Our accommodation was at Mt. Maruyog Farm and Garden Resort where we were to have our dinner:

Dodoy Botong. This is tinolang manok using coconut water as soup base and served on slightly grilled coconut shell. The staff did not reveal when I asked whether the tinola was really cooked on the coconut itself, it was a “secret” she said.

Garlic Sugpo. There is a spicy version of this but this one did not have that spicy flavor. Still rich and delicious.

Pinais na Sada. Tanigue wrapped seasoned with onion, garlic, ginger, cinnamon leaves, salt and pepper wrapped in banana leaves. The pinais also known as pinangat I know was that of small galunggong seasoned with salt and wrapped in banana leaves. No water is added in cooking.

Mt. Maruyog Farm and Garden Resort receiving and dining area in the morning.

Our cottage cost us P1,000 which was enough to accommodate five persons; one queen size and one single bed on the ground and two on the loft. Comes with a big and good enough banyo. This does not cover breakfast though.

In the morning, you wake up to a perfect view of Mt. Maruyog.

And the rich flora and fauna located in its surroundings.

Brooke’s Point is definitely a must-visit place. It’s beaches is likewise a pristine place to be as sampled by this view of the sea from the Convention Center where the “foodcourt” I first came to know is located. With tourism and more, Brooke’s Point proves to really be a growth center in Southern Palawan.

Calapan City Recently

2011-11-18T19:24:00.001-08:00

This is the first time I will write of a recent travel as most of my posting were historical in nature, hehehe. It was an official business for the 61st foundation anniversary of the province of Oriental Mindoro.

We were to board the Supercat for the 4:30pm trip from Batangas City Port. Knowing the activities at the terminal of which I used to be a regular visitor before, there were quite few people when we entered. However, the air-conditioning hardly provides that aircon feel. I think it is at the same level even when peak season/holidays are in because it has been the complaint a long time ago. That should be improved.
Aboard the fastcraft, after the usual prayer and safety reminders an AVP of our destination, Calapan City which I found on youtube. Good enough information for travellers whether first or old timer. It evokes pride for Mindoreños like me, I think more for those from Calapan City.

Ang Bagong Calapan MTV 2010

It is best to travel in the morning to avoid the hanging amihan or northeasterly winds that brings the boat to a see-saw state during the “ber” months/last quarter of the year and thus requiring medicine for those who cannot keep up with biyahilo or dizziness. After the grueling trip coupled with a video show featuring Cirque de Soleil, we proceeded to the JJ Lleido Memorial National High School Grandstand where tomorrow’s activities will be held and look what we found, they have that Hollywood inspired display of the provinces name on the topmost bleachers with the mountain range/forest as backdrop:

Too bad we weren’t able to watch the Pandanggitab or the festival of lights that was held that night due to the need for a meeting and to work on our role in tomorrow’s activities. To find out what it was like please watch here. They take pride in having brought this to the Aliwan Fiesta where they placed 5th last year.

Early morning, we went back to the grandstand where our official event is happening.

The band entering the grounds was the signal that the program is about to start.

And it started with a prayer with violinists at the background.

After the program, we passed by an ongoing training program for a local chicken growers association. We saw and tasted these chicken inasal.

And chicken longganiza. Tocino which is not yet done when we dropped by, I think it will be placed on that next tray =).

With brown rice =).

These would be all for now, next post will be for the agro-industrial fair that was about to close when we arrived, my first time after many visits at Calapan City Cathedral and more.

Entrepreneurial Tourism in Albay

2011-11-04T10:28:00.001-07:00

This particular trip is to be the most meaningful one in terms of my career as a public servant. It was a study mission to the coco coir industry of Albay in 2008. It was a sort of ‘entrepreneurial tourism’ a visit to MSMEs, trying their product/s and taking up a mini-MBA course along with enjoying the destinations in a certain place as I have discussed here before.

My former supervisor, Rudy Mariposque at the DTI-MIMAROPA Regional Office who was the transitioning as Provincial Director of DTI-Romblon showing us Mayon Volcano in all its glory minus the clouds.

The participants to the benchmarking activity with the Vice Mayor of Calatrava, Romblon and Tita Tess Dela Virgen of DTI-Oriental Mindoro who was my co-coordinator of the event. It was initially for their client who we have initially trained and linked with Juboken Enterprises for their coco-coir project.

We checked in at Sampaguita Inn and had this view from the hotel of the tip of the perfect cone from afar. There was just this strange feeling that the volcano is viewable everywhere you go. It connotes a certain kind of fear knowing that it has erupted many times and has taken lives and at the same time awe in its beauty, hence, “Daragang Magayon”.

The next day was spent exploring the coco coir industry in Camalig, Albay, its stakeholders, the equipment used to make a coir out of a husk and then further process it into different products, especially the geotextile which is used to prevent soil erosion along river banks and other landslide prone areas.

We took a quick side trip at the Cagsawa Ruins just to take some souvenir photos but the beautiful lady hid behind the clouds.

Supposed solo pic of the cloudy “Daragang Magayon”.

The community-based component of the coco coir industry is observed in all its glory on the part of the visit. Coco coir raw materials are supplied to households in this community and men, women and children are able to earn from making ropes which the raw material supplier also buys. Productivity while chit-chatting is encouraged here. This would be later adapted in Romblon and I have written it on this blogpost at entrepjournal, my gauge of success of this particular travel.

Agua Caliente Resort in Pansol, Laguna

2011-10-28T07:55:00.001-07:00

The humid weather makes me think of summer. The holidays, this long week is said to be going on that weather condition. These days, I am able to sleep without using may blanket, wall fan at number 2 which irritates me in the morning since I could not stand the freezing cold produced by the natural temperature at dusk and that electric fan open all night till the morning.

And that makes me want to be able to swim. A place we visited two times already is Agua Caliente in Pansol, Laguna. Even if taking the bus, you will never get lost as the neon lighted signage is very visible together with other signages, one of which says “69”.

According to its website, PANSOL AGUA CALIENTE RESORT was established in 1969. It is managed and owned by the Ibuna family and is continuously serving swimming pool facilities for decades. The name which means hot water in Spanish, reflects the abundant mineral-rich volcanic hotspring water rich in sulfur supplied by the mystical Mt. Makiling which will certainly relieve you. They say the mineral hot springs of Pansol have medicinal properties which soothe body pains of those who bathe in it.

While the hotspring is a good treat at night, the heat of the day can surely burn your skin. Either you use a good sunscreen or be safer by staying in that nook/roof where the hot spring falls freely from the lion statue.

With the blue sky as back drop, Agua Caliente has two outdoor pools. A knee-deep pool with hotspring gushing through it for children as well as an olympic-size adult pool surrounded by anahaw-roofed cottages, palm trees and native landscapes. Since the resort is open 24 hours, overnight swimming is an unforgettable experience. The cool evening breeze accentuates the charm of the hotspring bath. If you prefer privacy, they have airconditioned suites with a natural hot water pool. Its like a giant bath tub prepared by mother nature. The suites come with complete amenities and room service. (Source: Website)

The resort has tables for customers to eat and relax. For big groups, it has its pavilions to offer. It has hotel rooms for those who want to stay overnight or simply have a place to put their luggage. It has air conditioned rooms ranging from from single room, enough to accommodate two persons, to large cottages that could handle big groups. It also has rooms with fan for the budget-wise customers. (Source: Website)

We opted to use the large rooms with I think 5 double decked beds since we are about ten in the group. Near our cottages are monkeys that play around the trees where their ‘monkey house’ are located. They are tied to it.

The restaurant serves Filipino dishes with a special touch of Laguna. A well-trained chef ensures the quality and cleanliness of meals. Lastly, it has courteous employees that are ready to serve and give assistance to its customers. (Source: Website)

While we have not tried their restaurant as we brought in some food, the employees are really helpful especially the Manang cleaning the rooms. The resort seem to be providing livelihood to the nearby residents, plain, simple and good corporate social responsibility.

Aside from swimming, videoke, playing badminton and pingpong, the real reward of going to places like this is the opportunity to relax and just be around people who like you just wants to have some fun and enjoy. And doing them with friends in a simple but wonderful place is simply priceless.

(Photo Credits: Jerry Kent O. Abad)

San Pedro-Sta.Rosa-Taal-Tagaytay-Nuvali in a Day

2011-10-21T12:13:00.001-07:00

In minor non-conformity to my historical travel posts (“,), I am posting today a more or less recent travel as a bonding session of the folks in the office just for a change from the usual office life. The trip started on June 29, 2010 after office hours. The people gathered with some basic necessities and just a little cash and headed to San Pedro, Laguna at the Mercado’s Residence courtesy of Jerry who also provided the vehicle. We were billeted at their beautiful home, welcomed with a sumptuous dinner by no less than the mom of the house who happens to be a school principal. In the morning after the superb breakfast, a little chit-chat with Mrs. Mercado happened who exhibited her love to children through Yan-yan, son of Ali (in black, last photo). Arriving in Sta. Rosa at another officemate’s residence, we picked up some food as the Mom of Kris’ cooking is another favorite of the almost always hungry (in a good, good way) mob in the office. Then, we head off to our destinations:

As the car is parked by Jerry, the group started walking towards the church. Along the way was the Municipal Building of Taal or the Taal Municipal Hall which was built during the Spanish colonial period (1572).

Afront, we already saw the façade of the Taal Church. Taal, is a 4th class municipality in the province of Batangas, Philippines. It is the Balisong and Barong Tagalog Capital of the Philippines. One of the Filipino healing priests, Father Fernando Suarez was born here in 1967. Another one I know whose family hails from here is Ogie Alcasid.

With the news that the Provincial Government of Batangas passing the resolution of putting the name of the province in a marker much like that of Hollywood, in a lesser way, the name of the Taal Park here is a sign of that influence.

The façade of the church up closer. According to the marker, the Taal Basilica was first erected in 1575 by Fr. Diego Espina in the now San Nicolas, formerly part of Balangon. It was destroyed when the volcano erupted in 1754. it was rebuilt in the present location in 1755 which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1849. it is recognized as the biggest Catholic Church in the South. The present church was constructed starting in 1856 according to the architectural plan by Luciano Oliver and was inaugurated in 1885. The columns of the church are grand, very tall. After saying a little prayer inside the church which is a little dark, the group got to explore its details in a quick manner (gotta go =)).

Kent gets the idea of having this monk-like pose by the stairway to the church. The façade with these stairs makes me compare the place to a view of a church in Macau, I think.

Then we proceed to the old houses said to be comparable to the ones in Vigan (haven’t been there). We pass by Calle M.M.Agoncillo. According to Wikipedia, Marcela Mariño de Agoncillo (June 24, 1860 – May 30, 1946),also simply known as Marcela Agoncillo, is renowned in Philippine history as the principal seamstress of the first and official flag of the Philippines, gaining her the title of Mother of the Philippine Flag.

First, we proceeded to a house with a lot of cameras in exhibit. My photographer friends especially would definitely enjoy seeing it. Others we visited is a house complete with old equipment such as flat iron, refrigerator and more. Another I remember is a house of a family whose daughters died single, hence no direct heir to the house.

We went back on the road to Tagaytay for lunch. We stopped over this restaurant overlooking the Taal Volcano still without the Batangas name on it. I hope that does not come to be. Natural beauty is the best.

Next stop is the People’s Palace in the Sky which was built for the official state visit of the former US President and Mrs. Ronald Reagan, though the Reagan's cancelled their trip due to the general unrest and Marcos' problems at the time.

The Risen Christ overlooks the rooftop of the structure separate to that of the Palace.

This stairway candleholder seen to be reaching out to the heavens.

We then grab the opportunity of being photographed in and around a giant pineapple.

Next stop is Nuvali. A man made lagoon has koi fish all over. The most number of fish all dying to be fed by the spectators including us who were sold fish pellets to reach out to the hungry school (university, is a better word I guess) of koi fish. The place is called Solenad which comes from “sol” meaning sun and “nad” from the word promenade. Solenad does justice to its name given its outdoor scenery, parks and lush greens within a neighborhood center.

Another activity we tried is the motorboat ride. Enjoy the view and splash of water as the pilot would at times slide the boat sidewards to create waves or maneuver around the very tall fountains for added adventure. We wanted to try biking at the time but all the bikes were taken =(.

Safety first. All in life vests, we pose for this photo to formally end this particular journey. It actually officially ends with Jerry taking us all back to Bicutan, Taguig City where we started from last night. I hope to get to participate in another travel adventure such as this one.

Photo Credits: Jerry Kent O. Abad

Apo Reef Natural Park: Another Pride of Occidental Mindoro

2011-09-30T07:06:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Kuya Arnel who gifted me the photos in this blog on my birthday. =) I was holding a video camera during this trip which was not put to use up to now. Got to find those tapes.
It was on January 26, 2007 when I had the opportunity to participate in a day visit to one of Occidental Mindoro’s pride. Located in the town of Sablayan, a first class municipality and the biggest among the eleven towns composing the province (The province of Cavite ~~City~~ will fit right in the land area of Sablayan).

It was a dream come true and I was truly excited to visit the place. I have heard of it and as a Mindoreño, takes pride in the beauty and wealth that people have said about this largest atoll-like reef in Asia, second to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is marked by three islands on the surface, the Apo Island, Apo Menor (Binangaan'; and Cayos del Bajo Tinangkapang). The largest is Apo Island (22.0) hectares which harbors mangroves and beach vegetations, whereas Binangaan is rocky Iimestone island with relatively few vegetation and Cayos del Bajo (200-300 sq.m.) is a coralline rock formation with no vegetation.

UNESCO also states that Apo Reef Natural Park compared to that of Tubbataha National Marine Park has a unique natural phenomena. Apo Reef has a high diversity of corals and has an island covered with terrestrial vegetation. Apo Reef, the largest atoll like reef in the Philippines, is a submerged platform that is a submerged of a 34 sqkm sub triangular northern m and southern atoll like reefs separated by a 30-m deep channel that is open to the west

Upon arrival, photo opps by the signage was the first business. I call this and the succeeding group shots the Survivor shotgun poses.

This is a more Survivor shotgun pose with more of the cast.

After the pictures, the Ranger manning the Apo Island gave us a briefing of the code of conduct at the Apo Reef Natural Park. The billboard serving as visual aide sums up the message of the orientation: “Thank you for your cooperation and enjoy this scenic wonders with confined activities in harmony with nature. Take only memories and photographs at the protected area.”

Then starts the tour of the facilities which during the visit I think needed refurbishing. There is a building that serves as camp to the Rangers.

This modern 110-foot tall white tower with solar-powered lights stands tall in Apo Island. It was erected in 1903 by a Japanese company as part of the Maritime Safety Improvement Project-2 by the Philippine Coast Guard.

This view is from the lighthouse. I don’t remember if I climbed with the group or just stayed downstairs because of fear. Was I? Did I?

On the other side. I think this will be part of the activity in the next photo. Some of our companions were divers so they were able to explore the farther side of the reef including some baby sharks. They brought with them their diving gears on the trip, I just do not remember if rentals are available on the island itself.

Crossing the lagoon through a raft. This raft, if I remember right, is run through a rope connected to the other end of the lagoon where this particular kind of trip through the mangrove forest will end.

This is the last photo from the set that came from Kuya Arnel. The last activity was underwater watching whilst afloat on bamboo frames being dragged by a boat. A fun and new activity for us during the time so we liked it. Some of the “survivors” didn’t know how to look down at first despite the guide’s instructions. It’s good that they realized how to finally do it early on so they were still able to view the corals, fishes, and some turtles.
During our visit, a typhoon just passed. We were able to see the natural effects of weather conditions to the coral reefs. Not much color but mostly dark ones. Part of the natural renewal/regeneration process of nature. I just wonder how is it being affected by extreme weather conditions that we now face, as a result of human activities that are detrimental to the environment.
For inquiries and bookings, you may contact the Sablayan Tourism Office.

Puerto Galera halfway, twice

2011-09-24T05:02:00.001-07:00

Not all Mindoreños are created equal. Some of them are greater than the rest as they live in the famous white beaches of Puerto Galera. The place, which is a victim of proximity and commercialism, hence abused tries hard to keep the environment through the initiatives of the local government.

A Mindoreño myself, I only got the chance to travel to this place on March 22-23, 2008 to document the launching of Baraka sa Galera, a mini-trade fair. We took the bus from Manila to Batangas and then the boat to White Beach, Puerto Galera.

I was with the company of The Catalla’s and Tita Layni. Both have moved to Canada and New Zealand, respectively so I’m sure they are missing escapades like this. And I miss them too.

On our way, we enjoyed an average boat ride, although there were waves, they were not that big and strong. We enjoyed the clear blue skies and this scene.

Upon arrival, we just settled to our hotel and went on the to the selling and exhibits at another resort nearer the beach where local and international tourists can be captured by the local products as their market. During the visit, only t-shirts and beads accessories and the like were the only one’s sold at the tiangge’s found by the beach.

Then we strolled the beach, enjoyed the sceneries from the ongoing beach massages, beach volleyball, product promotions, the eye candy promodizers/models and more ;-).

Some tourists are just bumming around, some have group activities and others are alone and maybe looking for companions.

It only goes to show that alone or with someone or a group, travelling really depends on the person and his/her preferences are what matters.

So we just went on walking and bumming around just like the rest of the people there.

The weather seemed to darken a little bit, just before we went for swimming.

Only BK and I’s photos as our companions especially the two beautiful and gorgeous women’s photos are for our eyes only ;-).

Night came and we stayed up a little bit late but not too much. Just tried to squeeze into the night scene. A concert of local bands is an attraction during the holy week to entertain the mob of tourists flocking the Puerto at these times.

The next day we enjoyed the swimming pool and jacuzzi of La Solana Suites just before our scheduled departure.

Parting shot. Banana boating is another activity you can enjoy in the place and my background is Isla Verde, Batangas, my father’s hometown.

I got a chance to return to the town of Puerto Galera last May 12, 2011. This time from the trip is from Calapan City by land.

No white sand for me this time, just road trip to the Municipal Hall and their Solid Waste Management Facility and back to Calapan.

On the road, I got to enjoy wheat bread and cheese made by Beverly’s Bakery and Deli.

Improvement of the road system is ongoing and the mountain rocks by the road side is also getting some attention so to avoid landslides.

Trees, trees and trees are a refreshing sight.

And glimpses of the sea and the nearby islands.

It took my sanity in taking these photos as I was already getting dizzy. The swirling road and the speed of the vehicle did it. We were running out of time. One more meeting in Calapan City and were off for Batangas.

I survived. Missed the boat after the meeting plus the next trip we found ourselves in had a very bad air conditioning. I went back to being dizzy. Good thing we arrived in Batangas and slept while the car was running to full air con.

There, I completed this Puerto Galera post on two separate trips. Both halfway on each occasion. Therefore I conclude, halfway trips can be completed in time… More complete next time.

Beautiful and Bountiful, Oriental Mindoro

2011-09-17T05:01:00.001-07:00

I’ve been running out of drive to blog lately while I know that I have a lot of materials from the day I learned the world travel because of my work. This time I will take you to some of the places I have been to in this beautiful and bountiful province. Thank God for my work!

In my first feature about Bulalacao, I mentioned there that the province has once prioritized agri-tourism. Although what I saw then was only in paper, my 2009 visits when I transferred to DOST proved it all correct. For one, agricultural activities and facilities need maybe just a little more improvement on infrastructure but organizing (I think) the farm owners will help facilitate agri-tourism which will facilitate travel, learning and food, among others . Let me take some examples:

Go Farms in Palhi, Calapan City is an animal farm with various stocks from chickens, hogs and goats. Animal waste in this farm is utilized via 2 units of 20 cubic meter biogas generation and utilization facility which is used as brooder (incubator) for the chicks and saves household fuel for the farm workers. During the time, the said fuel savings equal to five households or five tanks of LPG per month.

Although this farm may not be open for actual public viewing by tourists (our access was because we assisted them technically in the construction of their biogas facility), I am setting them as an example for agri-tourism on the premise of learning while enjoying countryside views like this:

You may also try caring for the animals as part of the experience just like what they do in reality TV shows every time the setting is life in the farm and then enjoying the meat from fresh farm produce =).

Next, we visit Goco Fish Farm (GFF) in Brgy. Tawagan, Calapan City. The experience in a fish farm is different.

Various seafood such as bangus, tilapia, sugpo, shrimp, samaral, kitang and oyster are grown in the farm.

Feeding, viewing, catching and other activities related to live fishes can be done here. And while these activities are exclusive to farm workers during our visit, we did this to the invitation of the gracious owners.

In my next posts, we will see the more popular Puerto Galera in my perspective. And further next, I will also talk about something that I have been thinking about. From ‘agri-tourism’ of Oriental Mindoro, I think there could also be ‘entrepreneurial tourism’ a visit to MSMEs, trying and tasting their product and taking up a mini-MBA course along with enjoying the destinations in a certain place. How’s that for an idea? Merger na ba ito ng http://entrepjournal.blogspot.com and this blog? Abangan!

Super Bowl of China

2011-09-03T00:20:00.001-07:00

Last night was another dinner treat by the boss. This time at the Super Bowl of China in Glorietta 4. I suppose they are related with Flavours of China which I have recently featured in this blog. Learning about the “house tea” from She in that aforementioned blog entry about the Flavours of China, I initiated ordering it with the staple crackers while waiting for our ‘real’ orders.

Then came our tofu soup.

Vegetable fried rice.

Lemon Chicken.

Garlic Brocolli or Brocolli with Garlic.

Another chicken with a really Chinese sounding name.

And beef separated from its brocolli (Beef Brocolli loyalist much?!)

Food porn or what you call it, there is something about Chinese food that makes one eat not only halfway but all the way through. I am glad I have this chance to share good photos of good food. The boss new Canon IXUS 220 HS camera was used at photographing these food items we consumed that night.

The service at Superbowl is good as the servers introduce themselves every first time they serve your table. And when the assigned server is busy attending other customers, other servers are ever ready to accommodate your every concern which makes it another reason to come back to the place aside from the food.

Will provide editing and or more concrete information here as I get to know the real names of these food items.

Halfway the Manila Walk – my 1st

2011-08-27T04:57:00.001-07:00

Last July 16, 2011, I brought my brother to the “Photowalk” organized by my favorite group, the flickristasindios. It was his own wish that made me bring him along and introduce him to the group who cannot believe I have a brother who is just as good looking as I am. I haven’t been to the more popular “Old Manila Walk” I guess by Carlos Celdran but through the brotherhood and kindness of the “Proud Indios”, we are able to see for ourselves the beauty and majesty of Manila.

On October 18, 2008, I was just like my brother – a ‘newbie’. What we call first time attendees to the group. The only difference is that I didn’t have a brother in the group. It was born of my first attendance to the Happy Mamam Thursday (HMT) of the group after I joined them on flickr. Then I just got the information from there that a HongKong national, no - a Filipino in HK who is a member of the group is coming and that they are organizing a “Photowalk with BabaG”.

The photowalk starts in Legarda and our first stop was San Sebastian Church. This is to be my first and last visit to the church via a photowalk as the next photowalks that I will soon share did not pass by here. On a personal note, this is my second time to the place as I have been here during my first time in Manila to fetch a cousin of a friend who studied there. Just as before, a wedding was happening. It seems to be a favorite wedding place!

By the way, the marker dated 1934 said the it was designed by Genaro Palacios. The structural metal of which this church is uniquely built was manufactured in Belgium and erected by Belgian Engineers. The church was solemnly blessed August 16, 1861. Earlier churches built on the site by Recollect Friars since 1611 were destroyed by earthquakes.

This is BabaG, a Brother and friend to everyone, ever ready to sing, a celebrity in his own right. I thank him for being the reason I was able to join my first photowalk and for the Jose Rizal t-shirt from www.ppc-hk.org as souvenir. Please note the grafitti art in the walls of abandoned yards and buildings in Manila. Truly, a work of art.

Holy Face Center and Convent. If only all buildings like this were spared from dilapidation and instead were restored then the city would even be more beautiful. Walking past the beautiful old edifice is Kuya Jo, one of the ‘ninunos’ or leader of the group who organizes activities like this.

We were warned when walking near this pink building. Do not take pictures of merchandise of activities in it as the merchants do not like it. Captain Hook (pirates) alert. No offense meant, this is 2008 the building and businesses in it could have already changed. I should say the garbage and parking problem is really another problem!

Then we arrive in front of the Quiapo church and I take this first ever shot of the famous Basilica.

And aside from the usual dry goods and charms, pets like this rabbit are sold in Plaza Miranda.

And street children showing their stuff (dancing, tumbling, among other antics) to your camera.

Street life on the way to Binondo (see the arch of brotherhood) and the old Carriedo Fountain. According to journeyingjames.com, it was originally located at the intersection of Legarda, Nagtahan and Ramon Magsaysay street, but the construction of the Nagtahan flyovers during the late 70′s caused the transfer of the fountain first to MWSS Building in Quezon City then finally to Plaza Sta. Cruz fronting the Church of Sta. Cruz.

One of the creeks in Binondo. Although this looks clean (no garbage despite its brown color and if I remember right, with unlikely smell), the construction boom in Binondo seem to step on territories of its waterways. This is only a personal opinion according to my observation. I just hope the authorities look into this when they approve building permits.

Then you encounter limitless sightings of the calesa or kalesa.

This chariot looking one stands out from the rest I saw from Carriedo to Roxas Boulevard.

And in between the walks, you enjoy the company of friends like this bunch who discovered another way of enjoying the not so enjoyable waters flooding some spots of the streets on Manila.

The sight of the Manila Central Post Office Building stands in all its majesty from Jones Bridge.

On the opposite site, an undisturbed view of the sky heading for dusk.

My first photowalk participation ends here as there is a birthday party that still awaits the group. In the photo are Queen Isabel II and the Intendencia/Aduana. We will enter Intramuros in the next walks.

Bulalacao’s Pristine Eco-Tourism

2011-08-26T08:36:00.001-07:00

Tonight, I am blogging about the last province in MIMAROPA Region that I have not yet featured in this blog. After this series on Oriental Mindoro, my collection of the region will already be complete. Some years ago, this province talked about agri-tourism as one of its One Town, One Product (OTOP) especially in the San Teodoro town. It’s tagline beautiful and bountiful tells so much about tourism in its 15 municipalities and a City in the name of Calapan which has been declared the Regional Government Center. But this blog will start from the backdoor and absolutely my most visited one. I first had the opportunity to visit on April 23-25, 2008 to organize a training on abalone culture. The seawater surrounding the municipality is a thriving ground for many species of future seafood.

Located in the southernmost tip of Oriental Mindoro, Bulalacao is endowed with natural resources ideal for tourism development. It is accessible from Caticlan/ Boracay via ro-ro through Roxas and then drive South to the bottom of the island, or you could take a boat direct from Boracay Beach - a two hour trip North, to this town.

The name Bulalacao is legendary in origin. According to myth, a certain bird, referred to by the natives as “bulalacao”, periodically appeared out of the wilderness near the springs of Talisi and Lumagsak. Unexplainably, whenever this bird appeared, death would soon follow for the inhabitants. The inhabitants, gravely afraid and puzzled of this deathly phenomenon, changed the name of the settlement from Kaburayan (from the vines called Buray, which was in abundance in the area during that period) to that of the bird. Thus, the birth of Bulalacao. Afterwards, the bird bothered the place and the inhabitants no more.
From my hometown, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro it is accessible through Magsaysay, still in Occidental Mindoro. According to BulalacaoMindoro.com, a newly concreted road will connect Roxas-Bulalacao-San Jose, making Bulalacao just a 45-minute ride from San Jose airport. There are currently four flights a day, from three different airlines, arriving in San Jose airport from Manila NAIA Terminal 3 or the Old Domestic Airport.

Fish cages like this one we saw in Tambaron Channel ensures all-weather availability of high value fish.

In the northern part of Bulalacao lies Suguicay. A part of Barangay San Juan, this oblong-shaped island is separated by a channel. Suguicay is planted to coconuts and mangroves at both ends. This more or less ten hectare-island abound with corals and different kinds of shells.

Long white sand beach is what we walked on when we arrived in the island. The communities here offer some of their houses for tourists looking for a place to stay in. That’s what they told us when we asked.

These children depict the simplicity and laid-back nature of life in the island, playing under the sun or swimming while their parents go fishing or farm seaweeds.

Fresh fish and other seafood abound at every meal in Bulalacao. You will never get tired of the delicious taste of fish, prawns, shellfish and crabs, plus tiger prawns, squid and the occasional octopus and lobster, sorry for allergics.

The municipality is also in the sunrise of its salt industry. Having similar brackish water conditions as its neighbors Magsaysay and San Jose, Occidental Mindoro which is known for salt production, they produce good quality salt here using the latest plastic sheet technology which produces cleaner salt. This is what I saw in my March 12, 2009.

Aside from good business that salt brings to the salt farm owners, the product also provides employment to a number of people in the community since salt farming is known to be labor-intensive.

Aside from the seafood as in my April 11, 2011, there are other refreshing treats in Bulalacao, like fresh young coconut (buko) juice and meat.

Pancit canton (canton noodles) with seaweeds. Delicious either when cooked with lobster (sosyal!) or eaten raw, just like shing-a-ling.

A native delicacy (kakanin) made of kamoteng kahoy. Simple, delish and filling.

And just before we go, Bulalacao on clearer skies. Amazing!

One last look at the life in Bulalacao. Pristine eco-tourism commencing here.
Information Credits: www.BulalacaoMindoro.com

Eating Halfway to China

2011-08-24T06:32:00.000-07:00

I first heard of this restaurant in 2006 during my stint at the Barakalan Secretariat. As far as I remember then, I loved their Deep Fried Boneless Chicken in Lemon Sauce, the trademark chicharon while you wait for your order. This week,I met with friends from my hometown for a simple reunion. That is to celebrate a recent wedding which I attended, a recent pregnancy of a friend whom we have not seen since she conceived, another one who just gave birth and simply put/summing it all, we celebrated FRIENDSHIP! Yes, in the photo are some people I met halfway in life and we ate that night at the Flavours of China (FOC) in Trinoma Mall.

A simple reunion with friends at the Flavours of China, Trinoma

After meeting at the Trinoma Activity Center and some photo opps, we headed for dinner. Our choices were Mann Hann and Jerry's Grill. We were opting for the Grill but a 30 minutes to an hour of waiting did not help. Sheila, the pregnant one and I decided to go down for the other choice which to our dismay also had a lineup of customers waiting for table. Lo and behold, there was this Chinese Restaurant just near the stairs that only had one long table occupied. We looked, inquired and called our friends still at the waiting area of the Grill to follow us and they did. Door opened and we entered China, no the Flavours of China.

The pregnant one knew that there was a free house tea being served in this restaurant. So we all had one, aside from the shrimp crackers (chicharon) I knew long before, hehe. Thank you She, for knowing that. Now, I know it too, naks!.

We had 2 orders each worth P999 of a package meal the name of which I forgot. Each is good for 4 persons. All we had to do is to add another order of plain rice and bottomless iced tea as we were 9 in the group that time. To define it, here are the contents of the 2 packages altogether (aside from the rice and iced tea): crispy noodles with taosi spareribs (this had a leftover, I joked them that although the noodles were still hard, it was already cooked (fried), so they should not fear eating it), lumpia shanghai, braised birthday noodles efu style, spicy squid heads, braised beef brisket and crispy FOC chicken.

I searched everywhere and there was no FOC website/photos/promos. Only blogs by bloggers like me, huhu. How could that be? I didn't take photos of food as I was dyahe (shy) with my friends. Aside from enjoying the flavorful food that stood up to the restaurant's name, their web presence is my only complaint.

Thank you Alwyn and Mona for this treat!

Random August Food and Travel Post

2011-08-19T11:38:00.000-07:00

This month begun with celebrations. Friendships, exodus/journeys/travel and food. More of the personal aspect of my eating halfway with these friends on my personal blog. On exodus, the Catalla's are moving to Canadian soil, so we sent them off at Music88 in Bluewave, Macapagal Boulevard.

They seemed to enjoy the sendoff party singing and as you can see in the next photo despite what seemed to be a shortage of food:

What's food to blog about if it was not eaten anyway after taking those beautiful shots. Now here's something really worth blogging about the 10 pax package was consumed in no time. We sang our way through the three hours of some dancing, and merry-making. Ate Mayet and Kuya Dom treated us to Starbucks where we shared more stories and then signed the night off.

That same week I again met with them for their turn of the treat and here's some of the treats at Marina, Mall of Asia.

They feature the richness of the waters of the Philippine archipelago through this seafood platter.

The most delicious and the best Kare-kare I have tasted so far.

Sinigang na hipon with just the right sour taste, tender veggies and of course, what else can you say about those really biggy-sized shrimps. It was another reunion of some sort with a live band at the background. Personal stories are found here.

Then it was time for me to escape the city for a while and go hometown bound. Familiarity as it maybe called, I forgot to take pictures. But not the night-out with friends at Biboy's Bar, Aroma Beach. By the way we ordered their sizzling chicken feet, barbecued ribs and pancit lomi. My bad, no food pictures as I enjoyed, only the music scene that night:

It's 2:27am, better sleep now as I'll be off to SM North tomorrow for my first time at the 2nd Blogger Fiesta Manila 2011! Hope to meet new friends, learn and win in the raffle there!