Epic Street :

SPELLBOUND: Walking Past the Gallery of a New Master of Fragmented Light, JEFF CABLOG

2015-08-16T16:28:00.000-07:00

Spellbound.

That's how i was....

While I leisurely walk past the galleries at the 4th level of SM Megamall then my eyes locked into this piece: black & white, a northern woman struck by light...or shadow, was it excruciating pain? Or painful relief? The piece is titled Resuscitate. Pain...and relief uniquely at the same time. Chills! First time an artwork gave me chills.

The gallery was a showcase of Jeff Cablog, a Bagiuo-based visual artist and a native of the Cordilleras. According to his profile, Cablog is known in the art circle for his layered portraits and landscapes featuring the myths and sights in the cordilleras.

He uses a palette knife instead of a brush to layer oil on canvass achieving a "highly textured complex interlude of colors and textures". His works showed a mature drafting technique, inspired by tranparent cubism reminiscent of Manansala but showed a unique mastery of fragmented light.

"Downstream"

"Chapor"

Cablog was twice semi finalist of the Metrobank Art Competition and has been profiled by the US-based quarterly art magazine Blue Canvass. Galerie Francesca hosted his first solo exhibit and has since then held exhibits throughout the country and in Hongkong.

Uniquely talented and accomplished at his age. Though his profile did not mention this, he looked quite young. I now have a deep interest on local art pieces particularly of upcoming artists such as Cablog. Hope to see more galleries filled with his works and those of his contemporaries.

Heritage Lost: Bohol Earthquake 2013

2013-10-15T09:37:00.001-07:00

Lives are most important, am still praying that more lives be spared with the still coming aftershocks of today's earthquake in the Visayan region of the Philippines. But let me just rant my sorrow on the treasures potentially lost forever: the 300+ old churches of Bohol; let me grieve for the realization that these treasures can never be rebuilt, can never be the same, to remain as pictures in my hard drive, webpage and never be seen again. My heart bleeds as the news keep streaming. I am still praying for people's safety...but if its not so much of a bother, please include the churches too...

The church of Loboc after the quake (Image on top courtesy of @Tokyodrastic on Twitter). The Church of San Pedro in Loboc is the second oldest church in Bohol. The Jesuits rebuilt the church in Loboc after their church was burned down in 1602. Rising from the ashes into a beautiful and bigger church in 1734, it became the second oldest church in Bohol. According to the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA), it is a pilgrimage site for housing the tomb of the saintly priest Alonso de Humanes. The picture on the bottom is the façade of the church of Loboc I took just last year.

The interior of Loboc Church featuring its magnificent frescoes. With the façade and midsection part of the church toppled down, tell me...how do we save this? if it can be saved at all....

News came that the church in Loon was totally damaged by the quake. The Church of Our Lady of Light in Loon or the Nuetra Señora de la Luz is…or I guess was the biggest church in Bohol. It was built by the Augustinian Recollects from a chapel to a massive Corinthian coral structure in 1753. I took the picture on the botton last year and I remember being worried. Notice the crack that ran along the side of the left bellfry? Guess it didn’t take long to see it damaged….but this? Levelled to the ground? It’s just plain heartbreaking (photo on top from the tweet of Lail Rara).

Marvel at the interiors of Loon! The churches of Bohol are known for their unassuming coral stone structures but magnificent interiors, the Sistine-like frescoes will surely give you a neck ache (for making you look too long, too awestruck and overwhelmed). The image on the right shows the long frescoed ceiling and the colorful tiled-floor of the church. The image on the right I fondly call 'a gathering of saints' in Loon. A different era from Baclayon, a different vision from Loboc....but now gone forever....

When we visited Loay church last year, the church was being cleaned, repainted, redecorated and landscaped. The local community evidently loved their church. The image on top from the tweet of Lail Rara toppled down not just the exterior façade of the newly-painted church, but also the hopes of the community in rebuilding their beloved church to its former glory. The construction of Loay church or the Santissima Trinidad Parish was completed in 1882. The church, which was built from coral stones, has a belfry built a few meters farther from the main church but no longer functions now.

Loay is my personal favourite. It took me longer to take in the grandeur of the church. Perhaps it was because of its relatively plain façade and small built compared to its cousins the Baclayon and Loboc. But lo and behold, as you walk through the door...the interior transforms everything around you and bring you back through time...another splendid work of art....but how do we save this now? The treaures of Loay....the mural ceiling, the old pipe organ...the old Spanish religious influences written all over the church....yes, it was a time machine.

The Baclayon church, the most famous and frequented church in Bohol, sustained damage on its façade and belfry. The image on the bottom was from the tweet of Mr. Raymond Dracaza, the image on top was from my Bohol trip last year. The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Baclayon is one of the oldest churches in the country and best preserved Jesuit-built church in the region. It was completed in 1727 together with a convent that housed priceless relics of the past century such as an ivory statue of the crucified Christ, relics of St. Ignatius Loyola, a statue of the Blessed Virgin said to be presented by Queen Catherine of Aragon, and a lot more..

The colors of Baclayon...the altar, the aisle and the walls are awashed by multicolored lights emanating from its stained glass windows and lit up the altar.

The church of Dauis in Panglao Island is the newest addition into the Bohol family of national treasures. The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption became an independent parish in 1697 and was founded by Jesuit priests. According to the NCCA, the church building was a mixture of Byzantine and Romanesque styles and included murals made by Ray Francia and Canuto Avila. The image on top I took last year, while the image on the bottom was from the tweet of Mr. Raymond Dracaza.

The interior of Dauis Church. It lacks the Damaso-like aura of old heritage churches, but its architecture and design equally splendid. The church also featured a well of water at the altar believed to bring on miracles for the believer and the sick. I hope the beautiful interior and well was untouched by the disaster...

I haven't seen the damage the church of Maribojoc sustained during the quake, still waiting for news but looking at its neighbor Loon, my heart is already breaking at the thought. Maribojoc church i also one of my favorites. Apart from the consistent beautifully-frescoed ceiling, Maribojoc features round windows...far from the traditional cornered ones from regular architecture. It's all about contrast - neo-classical in an old church....grand. Now tears are welling up at the thought of it all gone.

The declaration of a site as a National Cultural Treasure is the highest recognition a country can bestow on its cultural properties. This means that the architecture and contents are priceless to our country's culture, history and arts. Its loss, therefore, is immeasurable...

A Binondo Food Pre-Walk: A Gastronomic Introduction

2013-08-10T01:22:00.000-07:00

Fresh from an inspiring talk on the cultural legacies of Manila, me and my friends decided to take a sampler treat of the Binondo Food Walk made famous by Mr. Ivan Dy of Old Manila Walks. I called it a pre-walk since number 1: it was decided on impulse but we also wanted to take that Old Manila Walk tours someday; number 2: we got hungry and we called our Chinese travel buddy to give us some leads; and number 3: we're here in Manila anyway so why not?

Binondo was established in 1584 by Spanish Governor Lius Perez Dasmarinas. It’s the Chinatown of Manila and once was the center of commerce prior to World War II. With Manila levelled during the war, commercial establishments has since moved elsewhere; but other than the hardy Chinese still working and living there in Binondo, one thing remained strong, famous and reminiscent of its old glory: the quintessential Chinese food. The dishes, samplers, treats and delicacies that wafts deliciously in the air reminds you that it’s a quarter past 3 and it’s meryenda time!

Our first stop: Dong Bei Dumpling at Yuchengco corner Tytana Sts. just behind the old Binondo church. This very small eatery had been described as a small, unassuming hole-in-the-wall restaurant. #Dongbei #dumplings

Small yet the place offers many mouth-watering treats. We ordered the pork dumplings as recommended by our friend. #dongbei #dumplings

The dumplings here are prepared in the resto where you can see them. Its also a good thing because you can be assured that everything you order are prepared fresh. #dongbei #dumplings

I wonder what this will become, is it the pork dumplings? the xiao pao? #dongbei #dumplings

The roll of dough was flattened meticulously to get that thin dumpling wrapper consistency, then filled with pork, shrimps, etc, fried or steamed....the list goes on...#dongbei #dumplings

The fresh dumplings looked good enough to eat already....don't worry, hungry as I was, I waited for the steamed version. An order consisted of 14 dumplings. #dongbei #dumplings

Steamed pork dumplings with chives....this was what we ordered. Well, I'm not really a dumpling person, I don't like the taste of extenders I do not know. But this? This...was beyond words. Not a foodie, so all I could pathetically come up with is DELICIOUS in many tones, enunciations, intonations, modulations, pitches and cadences! Sigh, I became a fan! I will be back! And this was just the start of our pre-walk... #dongbei #dumpling

Our next stop was Wai Ying Fastfood at Benavides St. Our friend recommended its tai pao or the mean, large siopao! #waiying #taipao

It started looking like a very Chinese dinner as I watched through the window. That duck and other sweet meats displayed there paired with the hot, piping mami noodles on the side made me want to order my favorite yang chow fried rice for a really, stuffy-yummy five-course Chinese feast! But hey, our objective here was the tai pao, so I reined in my horses.... #waiying #siopao

It started with a hot glass of clear tea....it washed our palates from the tasty aftertaste of Dong Bei, prepared our tongue for another gastronomic surprise #waiying #siopao

This is not a siopao, this is a tai pao. The difference, as far as I saw it, was the size. But like an energy bar, its power-packed with different fillings, from asado, salted egg, steamed pork and who knew what else. 'Twas not as big as a plate, just a little bigger than the jumbo-sized siopao. It tasted great, better than what I can buy from the foodcarts. Its very filling, very tasty but really more than enough for me. If you go here, better come hungry. #waiying #taipao

They sliced it already so it can be shared. The steaming tai pao is already dinner for two. #waiying #siopao

We also ordered siomai and hakaw but what I kept coming back to was the tai pao. I already had one of these so I was not really surprised. It was delicious. period. Loved it? yes. Will be back? of course! #waiying #siopao

We passed by this carinderia-like store on our way back to Ongpin St.. No we didn't eat here but I was amused at the mini-cauldron pots containing the food - terracotta style. Now that's uncommon these days. #ongpin

Our travel buddy's list contained these words: freshly squeezed sugarcane juice. Wow! that was good advertising. We really looked forward to that freshly-squeezed sugarcane juice (so much that all we had so far was the hot tea from Wai Ying, not even water because we looked forward to that juice!). #sugarcane

The Juice....was nowhere! ha! maybe we were lost or they went home already. So we just contented ourselves with the freshly-peeled-sugarcane-cane that can be bought from carts along Ongpin St.. Well, to spare my delicate teeth I gladly donated my share with a smile and a thought "Happy chomping!" #sugarcane

Next stop: Fried siopao along Ongpin St. It was just a store not a restaurant with a lot of food goodies other than the fried siopao. #friedsiopao

The fried siopao were already packed by singles, sixes or dozens. It was a regular sized siopao with a slight sear in its underside, proof that its fried, not steamed. #friedsiopao

I wanted to taste this, Machang, a glutinous rice preparation with meat filling at the center and wrapped in banana leaves dimsum style. But, I was getting really full that time and we still had one more stop to go. Well, much as I would like to nibble on my small fried siopao, I just took it home as pasalubong to my loved one with a line prepared that went "Dahling, I intentionally bought this for you! smack!" #friedsiopao

Last stop for the night: Mañosa Restaurant along Ongpin St. A bit farther from the church, though good for burning all the food we ate earlier. Earlier on, those were appetizers and snacks. This place was for dinner. Our friend recommended its Maki and Makimi for a savoury finish. #manosa #makimi

Maki, a thick heavily flavored soup poured over breaded pork chunks with leaks to top it off. It has a full flavor, heavy in the gut too. Warning: need more gut space for these, would also need rice. #maki

Makimi was another dish we ordered, same with Maki on the soup and pork chunks but served with noodles. #makimi

It was already late when we gave up, too full to have another look on the list. Thankfully realizing that the Maki was the last recommended stop. Oh well, what a tasteful introduction to the Binondo Food Trip. We have craved to do this for the longest time. Finally, we had our round.

I guess every foodie and blogger in town already had this experience in their archives, I am still thankful that I got to do mine. Well, this was a pre-walk. Next time I wanted to do the real walk, know more about the places we went to, their history, their success stories and other food stops we never knew. Next time I hope to join the tours of Old Manila Walks with my friends to learn more, to experience more, to discover more, to eat more, to gain weight.....nah! let's stick to the discovering and experiencing.....

Well, I hope you enjoyed this post. Till next time. chow!

The Mirror-Like Waters off the Coast of Aroroy, Masbate

2013-06-29T07:47:00.000-07:00

Recently marred by a sea tragedy (A Roll-Off-Roll-On Liner sank off Burias Island last June 2013), Masbate is once again in the headlines but not for all the good reasons. Such tragedies affect not only the island's economy but also its potential as a tourism hotspot. It paints a frightening picture of turbulent waters, strong winds, mountain-high waves...not a very inviting idea for a relaxing vacation where the options you have are these ROROS or the thrice-a-week plane ride. Its sad because the three islands that make up Masbate still have that rustic charm, raw natural landscape and the slow, easy-going equanimity of provincial life.

I packed my bags for Masbate, not to gratify my sense of adventure or wanderlust....but out of duty for family and loved ones. Masbate hasn't figured in my bucket list yet (partially because traveling by sea is really not a dream vacation for me!) so I just went sans my adventurous spirit and even dread the two-hour fast craft ride from Sorosogon's Pilar Port to the City of Masbate.

Maybe it's that time of the year....but a week after a storm just checked in the bicol area.....or maybe it's geography, that shields the main island of Masbate from strong winds and heavy rain....but lo! and behold! my sea trip is as smooth as silk. Crossing Ticao Pass and Masbate Pass was as effortless as riding a banca on a lake. Even riding a tricycle along a bumpy road is more dangerous compared to cruising these waters. Ha! first time without the tears...

The glass-like stillness of the waters of Aroroy, Masbate

The mirror-like waters of Aroroy, Masbate at the northern tip of Masbate Island echoes my surprise to find a patch of very very calm seas in the midst of typhoon-magnet bicol region. I will definitely be back to discover Masbate more and try its foremost attraction...swimming with the manta rays...oh well, that's one for the bucktlist! and hope to find more....

Passing Ticao Pass, Masbate

The two-hour sea trip on a fast craft from Pilar Port to Masbate Port

The 60-seater bancas that travels from Pilar Port in Sorsogon straight to Aroroy, Masbate

Early morning at Aroroy Port

Preparing the banca for the two-hour trip to Sorsogon

These passenger boats carry everything, from beds, to produce to refrigerators...everyday scene at Aroroy, Masbate using my android phone

Fishing at Dawn, the view of Mt. Mayon from Aroroy, Masbate

Heading out to sea at sunrise at Aroroy Port, Masbate

Kids at sea, who's afraid to row? at Aroroy, Masbate

On the edge...of a boat, sunset at Aroroy, Masbate

Life at the Port, Aroroy, Masbate

This is the class of ROROs plying the route of Pilar to Masbate. Still waters give you beautiful reflections....see? no waves at all!

A view of Mt. Bulusan as we near Pilar Port

I'll see you again Masbate....I'll see you on your Rodeo Festival and your Manta rays and your un-spoilt beaches...

That's me...enjoying my fast craft ride....and the sight of a dolphin frolickin' in the open sea....I will see you again Masbate!

The Azure Waters of Laiya: A Quick Serenity Fix Just Outside the Metro

2013-04-22T02:20:00.000-07:00

The images of grey, white and bright lights of the city can be a strain in the eyes. Well, what is worse sometimes is finding only a few work leaves left so that a relaxing, long out-of-town vacay is far, far on the horizon. But if all you need is a quick fix of blue-green waters for your weary eyes and salt spray beaches for your stressed-out spirit, then head out to Laiya, Batangas for that much-needed soul medicine without hurting your schedule.

The beaches of Laiya lie in the municipality of San Juan at the southernmost tip of Batangas. It is about 120 kilometers south of Metro Manila, just less than a two-hour ride if you take the STAR tollways route. Upon reaching San Juan, another 20 minutes and you will arrive at the fine beaches of Laiya. There are a number of resorts lying along this coast which caters to all types of weekenders – from the magnificently expensive to the reasonable and rustic accommodations. Well, whichever suits your mood and your wallet meter, these resorts share the same azure coastline anyway, so check them all out. #laiya #bluewaters #philippinebeaches

Laiya faced the Verde Island Passage in the south, a sea highway taken by vessels plying the Batangas-Marinduque route. On early mornings, the majestic Mt. Halcon takes a peak to say hi from Mindoro. #laiya #bluewaters #philippinebeaches

The enigmatic Mt.Banahaw stands imposing in the north because San Juan is bounded by the towns of Candelaria and Tiaong. I'm not sure what the other mountain is to the left, Mt. Maculot? dunno, Mt. Makiling? maybe. #laiya #bluewaters #philippinebeaches

Laiya features shallow waters for a mile, where you can walk through thigh-high waters especially during low tides. Perfect for a dip. On a wonderful sunny day, the sea reflects wonderful hues ranging from minty green, deep blue, azure blue and aquamarine - the colors of serenity, exactly what my frazzled eyes need. #laiya #bluewaters #philippinebeaches

The waters here are calm enough to swim. no big waves just soft, relaxing ripples. Laiya enjoys a portion of south Luzon where a semi-cove is carved out, thus, partially shielding it from the open sea. #laiya #bluewaters #philippinebeaches

Early mornings reveal a different zen - a wonderful sunrise. The sun is not directly seen from here, but the skylights during sunrises offer a colorful sea-and-cloud play if you're lucky. #laiya #bluewaters #philippinebeaches

There's mangroves and fish pens in the eastern side of the beach. #laiya #bluewaters #philippinebeaches

Early morning toil. By the time I woke up, these fishermen were already on their way back. Met them on the beach for a chit chat on their early catch. #laiya #bluewaters #philippinebeaches

Low tide and a mile....wading through shallow waters offers a different kind of zen. Or was it Neptune coming out of the sea? any way you describe it, the image evokes peace. Whoever he is, he looked at home with the waves. This shallow, who would'nt want to try? uhmmm...maybe just me. #laiya #bluewaters #philippinebeaches

To the east is Tayabas Bay and beyond the hills in the west lies Lobo, another town where beach resorts also abound. #laiya #bluewaters #philippinebeaches

Well, it's not white sand here like Boracay. It's the azure waters that are perfect. Boats can be rented throughout the beach for snorkelling and island hopping though a bit pricey. Other resorts offer jet skis, banana boats and other waterly fun.#laiya #bluewaters #philippinebeaches

A break from my sea reverie: we encountered peddlers on the beach who are selling these. Its sweetened coconut meat using brown sugar - Bukayo. Tastes good, but what tickled my fancy is the unique packaging. I forgot what it is...is it dried banana stalks? formed like a square bottle, where stacks of little trays are lined inside filled with bukayo....hmm...ingenious! you can buy three packs for P100. #filipinofood #coconut

This is where we stayed, Estrellas de Mendoza Playa Resort. The rooms and pool are nice, and the buffet breakfast too! A night here would cost P6,800 for two. Check their sites for promos: http://estrellasdemendoza.wix.com/estrellasdemendoza Try browsing also through the net for a resort that suits your needs...and taste. A lot of them offers different amenities and experience.

I borrowed this map from www.motorcyclephilippines.com just to show you how to navigate your way to Laiya. For driving directions, check this link for instructions: Driving instructions to Laiya

Again, don't expect powdery white beaches here. It's still Boracay that suits that description to a tee...and Caramoan...and Siquijor....

But when all you need is to relax in the midst of the big blue, a sneak to the beach amidst work deadlines...then Laiya is for you. For just a day or two, you can have that coffee-by-the beach much needed break....enjoy!

Check this link for more beach resorts: Map and Sites of Laiya Beach Resorts

2013 Pyro Nights: 4th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition - Closing Exhibition from the Philippines

2013-03-25T00:49:00.000-07:00

Its the closing of this season's International Pyromusical Competition...and it deserves the best!

The Philippines is a non-competing entry being the host country. BUT that doesn't mean we can't. The Philippines through Platinum Fireworks, Inc. won the People's Choice Award in GlobalFest 2012 as Favourite Pyromusical Performance held in Canada, August 2012. Also, the Philippines participated in the 15th, 16th, 17th, 21st and 22nd MACAU International Fireworks Display Contest, Macau, China where we won 3rd place in 2009 and 2010. Can't find news for 2011 and 2012 though.

About the finale...well, it was GRAND! the ENERGY is indescribable...fireworks on the water, fireworks coming from behind, the sides, the spiralling fireworks at the center and sides....just wow! and they're playing pop and dance tunes...try gangnam for a firework display....

T'was really a show-topper...sometimes I just sat there, forgetting to click my cam uh-oh! i was shifting from cheering, taking pictures, singing, worrying 'bout falling embers on my head...and just plain mesmerized.....

Well, taking pictures of fireworks sure is a test for timing and composition. I definitely missed the butterflies, the smiley's the gangnam shades, the flowers...got only one heart....anyway, enjoy the pictures....

The Philippine's Platinum Fireworks, Inc......yebah!

can't get enough? let's watch the video....

Closing Exhibition 2013 from Platinum Fireworks

If you want to see Canada, Italy and the Netherlands....
follow this post...

Well, see you again next year!

2013 Pyro Nights: 4th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition Part 2

2013-03-24T23:47:00.001-07:00

Here's to Italy and crowd favorite, the Netherlands....

Italy and the Netherlands competed last March 9, 2013 with Ipon Fireworks S.R.L. of Italy and the Royal Fireworks of the Netherlands.

Enjoy....the Netherlands

Here's Italy....

Next post is the Grand Finale from the Philippines

2013 Pyro Nights: 4th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition

2013-03-24T23:25:00.000-07:00

Its that time of year again, when the new year...and the Chinese new year is extended for six nights of one the world's greatest pyromusical displays!

I'm a fan, despite calls from some sectors of society mindful of the release of toxic fumes and chemicals emitted on the explosion of fireworks. Yep, true. But for me, I will support banning street-fireworks on New Year's eve when the entire world is simultaneously lighting up fireworks everywhere...every street, every corner, every elsewhere. As opposed to 40 minutes divided in two sets, once a week, for just 6 days, in just one location...on the waters of Manila Bay, at a time when the hot winds of the city exits to the sea that puts natural attenuation of the atmosphere at work....

Anyway, we folks love entertainment...and the pyromusical display gets better every year, displaying increasing artistry year by year...

The 4th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition opened last February 16, 2013 and ended last Saturday, March 23, 2013. I only watched two events, missing some of the best parts I guess. For this year, the winners are:

Grand winner: United Kingdom

1st Runner up: Canada and China

2nd Runner up: Finland

I only watched Italy, the Netherlands and Canada...and of course our very own! enjoy...

Fireworks Spectacular of Canada, March 23, 2013

Next post is Italy and the Netherlands

Images of El Nido, The Island Series Part 3: Swimming with the Fishes at Simizu and Last Run for Seven Commandoes

2013-02-27T22:14:00.000-08:00

Our trip to El Nido did not really start with Tour A, but after going through it we realized that the destinations included in this trip are guaranteed A++. Rephrasing, it is A for a reason: A for adventure, A for excitement and A for satisfaction guaranteed. Definitely, definitely start your trip with Tour A!

The waters of El Nido: full of life, full of wonder! #elnido #simizuisland

Tour A covers the islands of Simizu, the famous lagoons of El Nido and the beach at Seven Commandoes. This post covers the first and last destination of the day: the island of Simizu and the beach of Seven Commandoes. I'll save all the lagoons for the next post, so watch out for it! #elnido #simizuisland

Mornings at El Nido, always a great way to start. #elnido #elnidosunrise

Since Tour A is power-packed, it's always better to start very early so you'll have the time to linger and breathe in the wonders of the islands, restful and easy not hurried and wearying for a memorable El Nido trip. Around 7 or 8 am is preferred. #elnido

The first stop for the day was Simizu Island. It was a small island with rocky cliffs on almost all sides, small patches of white sand beaches and scattered rocks all over the shoreline. The view from the sea approaching the island was definitely picturesque, one of those living-in-a-postcard moment! #elnido #simizu

If this is your first island at El Nido, it very much sums up everything you've heard of this piece of paradise: jade waters, towering cliffs, green mountains, blue sky, white sand beaches, calm waters....and with you in it? dolce vita!....#elnido #simizuisland

But why are we anchored on water 20 ft deep when the white sand and rock formations on shore are within reach? You see the boatman knew best. Ha! he had his pockets ready with small pieces of bread then threw them out in the water! You said what? then a frenzy of colorful fishes just popped out of nowhere! #elnido #simizu

My friends wasted no time putting on their vests, snorkels and fins to throw themselves out in the water too, following those pieces of bread. Confronted with life on sea, it was too thrilling not to get onto those waters...you see yellow, blue striped fishes....not fingerlings! like you're swimming in the biggest aquarium of all time! #elnido #simizuisland

We were screaming with excitement fish! fish! fish! (oh well, forgive the city boys and girls...), but the moment was just too crazy not to get too worked up! after a while, the mood changed from near-hysteric frenzy to one that is serene, calm and zen-like...#elnido #simizuisland

With the slow, easy waves, and the quiet lull of the sea, feeding the fishes at Simizu Island can be almost therapeutic. An offshore retreat surrounded by islands with sharp, jagged cliffs but otherwise scenic. Being one with nature, and just enjoying the tranquility amidst the busy but hushed chop-chopping of the fishes feeding on the bread at your fingertips, that definitely is what life is all about! if only we have saved some of that bread for ourselves....oh well! #elnido #simizuisland

Simizu Island, definitely a prime spot. One can stay here all day...snorkel, dive, kayak, rock-climb, feed the fishes or just sunbathe under the sun. Simizu is now officially on top of my list for best destination at El Nido. #elnido #simizu

The view of the islands on our way to the last destination of the day....those cliffs are like lofty guardians of the sea, simply breathtaking! #elnido

The Seven Commandoes Beach is still part of the El Nido mainland but only accessible through sea. Well we didn't really know the story why it came to be called such, the boatman didn't know either. People have otherwise speculated that being the last track of land of the mainland and protected by thick jungle and high limestone cliffs, it became a sanctuary for rebels. Not even the boatman can confirm that story, so we just left it at that. #elnido #7commandos

Anyway, we came here almost sunset but people still dotted the beach. We can also hear loud music playing, a first in this trip. Looked like a store has opened up and expanded to entertainment. The lively, party sound was not really distracting, just different from the islands that we visited. Anyway, it was a nice change for people who wouldn't mind. We just walked along the beach to cool down from our action-packed day. #elnido #7commandos

As the sun set at Seven Commandos beach, we bided our time and relished the moment....#elnido #7commandos

It was time to go, all boats are required to be back on shore before dark lest they get lost and get struck at rocks protruding at some points near the islands especially when the tide ebbs out into the sea. #elnido #7commandos

There was a restaurant outside of town serving dinner, cocktails and a few alcohol where a full view of the sunset can be seen. Our friendly tryke driver took me to this little resto which I unfortunately forgot the name. They were friendly enough to take me in to get some pictures. Thanks so much but I'll research and ask around so I can write it down here. #sunsetatelnido

For the highlights of Tour A, read on to the next post...

Missed my post on the islands of Tour C? follow the links below:
Images of El Nido, The Island Series Part 1: From Helicopter to Snake with a Star in Between
Images of El Nido, The Island Series Part 2: Matinloc Shrine with a Hidden (Lagoon) and a Secret (Beach)

If you need some pointers on going to El Nido, check these out:
A Piece of Heaven on Earth Called El Nido: My Best Shots
A Piece of Heaven on Earth Called El Nido: Getting There and Other Things

Images of El Nido, The Island Series Part 2: Matinloc Shrine with a Hidden (Lagoon) and a Secret (Beach)

2013-02-26T23:00:00.000-08:00

Although the cluster of islands included in Tour C are equally splendid and touristy, well....the islands in this post are fascinating. I considered them the highlights of the day! scroll down and judge for yourselves...

The Hidden Lagoon, with its idyllic waters and beautiful limestone cliffs....and the only way to get there? well, swimming! #elnido #hiddenlagoon

The hidden lagoon is a small beach enclosed in two towering limestone cliff islands. It has two waterways located at both ends, but are so small and shallow making it impossible for these boats to pass through safely. The waters at one end where the safest entry can be made are relatively shallow...about 9 feet, but are lined with corals and limestone rocks underneath. Swimming towards the sandy beach inside is the only way.#elnido #hiddenlagoon

The hidden lagoon, so beautiful yet so vicious. #elnido #hiddenlagoon

Well, you have to be a strong swimmer 'coz the lagoon is really playing hard-to-get to - the waves are ridiculous! they'll keep pounding on you like crazy! and be careful of those rocks!, according to the boatman, they can really cut skin. I have strong swimmer friends, but they were careful and opted to be pulled by our sea-boy guide. Well, just look at that wave! on a side note, our sea-boy guide was only about 13 or 14 yrs old, but golly how he swam! like he was born out there at sea with the mermaids and the mermen. #elnido #hiddenlagoon

If you are equally obstinate and strong-hearted (coupled with strong swimmer arms!) like the Hidden Lagoon, you will be rewarded with a majestic and impressive view! light sandy beach, shallow jade waters enclosed in soaring-high rocky cliffs. My friend Andrew took this picture when they got there. I have seen this place on so many magazine covers, guess this is one of El Nido's prime spots! #elnido #hiddenlagoon

With all it's beauty, I don't have a sweeping, nice landscape image of it. If you're guessing the reason why? well, you're probably right, so there! I have a stubborn-heart but weak arms so I waited it out in the boat, took selfies and made friends with our boatman while my friends are having the time of their lives swimming, exploring, sunbathing, taking pictures of each other...at all angles...bah! pathetic, them? no, me! #elnido #hiddenlagoon

The next destination is secret...shhhh! It's a secret beach according to our boatman. After a short boat ride, you go to the next island, stop in front of a high, flat limestone wall and wonder where the secret is. We also did not see it at first, but there it was...a small hole along the water line where only one person or two can pass through. #elnido #secretbeach

See? well, there were already people inside so it wasn't that big secret after all, ha! It was good that time because the tide was not yet high so you can still pass with your head up above the water. When its high tide, I guess you have to dive....another one for the adventurous spirit! yey! not me.... #elnido #secretbeach

Secret beach...no other option but to swim. But hey, it was tame compared to the Hidden lagoon. No waves here, no sharp rocks, only deep waters (if its good news for you). My friends swimming to the hole.....uhmm, I guess being dragged to the hole is a bit accurate...but they enjoyed it. See you later travel buddies, don't worry I'll guard the boat! That is our sea-boy guide! He is really a tough one! #elnido #secrebeach

The following images are Andrew's shots inside the secret beach. That's the view of the hole from inside. I guess the sea floor there is a bit rocky, shallow but rocky. #elnido #secretbeach

Its a smaller area compared to the hidden lagoon. You can swim in the shallow waters towards a small patch of white sand in the enclosed beach. The high cliffs really looked like walls guarding the area. This shot is also from Andrew. #elnido #secretbeach

Secret beach...access to it is literally through a hole-in-the-wall! Based on Andrew's shots, I guess some parts are just knee-deep, you can walk around. Just look at the limestone walls. If you're thinking geological, that's really strange: flat, high, enclosing....unique! #elnido #secretbeach

Secret beach...a last look at that intriguing place. Enclosed waters protected by a flat limestone wall against a deep blue sea. #elnido #secretbeach

A view of the surrounding sea on the top of a medium-sized cliff at Matinloc Island. #elnido #matinloc

Have I seen this before? hmmm....looked like the view from Jeremy Renner's movie, where a flash view of Palawan was shown. #elnido #matinloc

Matinloc Island is also home to a shrine for the Virgin Mary. It featured a heart-shaped stone in front of the circular base of the Virgin representing Matinloc which they say is really heart-shaped...maybe at a particular angle, but not on google. Stories abound for the reasons on having an abandoned shrine in the middle of...nowhere. Well, its one of the few-man-made structures at El Nido that has become a tourist spot bolstered by visionary stories and a few creepy ones. We did not see the hidden museum beneath the altar, guess it wasn't there anymore or we were too tired. The hidden museum reportedly has pictures and stories that tells of a vision of a heart-shaped island being the next Jerusalem. Even the dome constructed for the Virgin was reportedly part of the vision. Some find the island creepy, but I found it peaceful...with the shrine there, it resonated calm and retreat. #elnido #matinlocshrine

Matinloc Shrine can be accessed via a cemented dock in the middle of the island, on a part where the sea boasts clear views of nearby islands...like being surrounded by them. If you're not aware of the legends and creepy stories (us among them!) that made this island famous, you will come to marvel at the view from this dock. The colors of the water when the sun is high ranges from blue, blue-green, aquamarine, turquoise, emerald and jade green....simply AMAZING. Love this part! #elnido #matinloc

The multi-tone waters contrasted beautifully against the black granite stone cliffs at the dock of Matinloc and the lush green of the nearby islands scattered around Bacuit Bay and Tapiutan Strait. Like a postcard hanging on a wall, this place is picture perfect...better take that selfies, group pics, jump shots or scripted shots you have in mind. #elnido #matinloc

Sunsets...like an integral part of the trip, can be enjoyed anywhere in El Nido. This was the end of Tour C, next on our itinerary was Tour A. My assessment? At the end of the day, you'll have sleepy eyes, tired muscles but a happy heart. Rest well for the night for the morrow comes another adventure! #elnido #sunsetinelnido

Visit my other posts on the wonders of El Nido:
A Piece of Heaven on Earth called El Nido: My Best Shots
A Piece of Heaven on Earth called El Nido: Getting There and Other Things
Images of El Nido, The Island Series Part 1: From Helicopter to Snake with a Star in Between

Images of El Nido, The Island Series Part 1: From Helicopter to Snake with a Star in Between

2013-02-26T22:45:00.000-08:00

My friends and I decided to take Tour A and C for our 2013 El Nido Adventure. Gees, we should have planned for a longer stay to cover all the islands, but I guess we can always come back next summer. If you have all that stored up energy for an adventure packed escapade, then a week here is not enough. This place, with its rocky cliffs and hidden lagoons, is not really for the beach bums and those looking for a sleepy relaxing cruise. The islands are beckoning every traveller to explore its every nook and cranny sometimes requiring strong arms and a good swim to reach its hidden pride.

The tour starts early at 7 am. If you plan for your lunch, don't forget to drop by at the local market to buy some fresh catch. Take off points would either be right there at the beach front or through the back door (the beach at the opposite side of town near Corong-Corong. #elnido #elnidosunrise

Our first stop is Helicopter Island. From afar it looked like a helicopter with a bulbous head and a long tail. Well, my friend actually saw the head of Homer Simpson, maybe from a different angle. Its the first island you'll ever see whether you take Tours A or C...oooh! that rhymed, ha! #elnido #helicopter

Helicopter Island has a nice long beach with powdery, light, tan sands. If the waters of Bohol are emerald green, the waters in El Nido are a gleaming jade. #elnido #helicopterisland

The expanse of powdery tan sands in the long beach of Helicopter Island is a good place to play games in. You can go snorkelling in the waters too. #elnido #helicopterisland

The far end of the island is a bit rocky, can be explored but beware of the waves. It can go wild sometimes. Better stay on the sandy part where the waves are still at the category of fun. #elnido #helicopterisland

We had one other island before we proceeded to Star Beach for our sumptuous, castaway lunch. I'll reserve the other island in my next post so I'll just go directly to Star Beach in the Island of Tapiutan at the Northeastern cluster of islands in El Nido. #elnido #starbeach

Now, Star Beach is situated in an enclave of two islands, the other one being very, very small which appeared like you are passing through a canal. The beach also offers lush vegetation, which includes shady trees....good for that castaway lunch under the shade. #elnido #starbeach

Star beach has a relatively small-sized stretch of sand, just good enough for a boat or two. You can almost have the beach by yourselves sometimes, cooking your food and enjoying lunch. The beach has that nice and easy combination of sand, water, vegetation and rocky towering cliffs.....very El Nido #elnido #starbeach

I'll skip further towards the last destination for the day: Snake Island. Actually, this was part of another cluster of islands down south of El Nido. We paid extra just to see the snake, with it's long winding sandbar extending towards another island...you can walk along it's line, looking like a bridge or a dam. #snakeisland #elnido

There's a view deck that requires a little hike...just a minute or so, no big deal! From the view deck, you'll have a perfect view of the winding sand bar. You can also look at the other side of the island and see the towering islands of Malapacao, Lagen and Cabugnon and the beautiful blue-green sea. #elnido #snakeisland

It looked like a nice walk from here to there, maybe early when sun is up. Even at sunset you can see the depths of the waters around Snake Island by the different colors that it reflect, from deep blue to jade green. Another perfect Island for a dip, a swim and a photo...#elnido #snakeisland

That's me in the left photo, soaking up the sun at Helicopter island. That's my friends and our boat at the right at Snake Island at around sunset. The dog is among the guardians of the snake! nah! they live there, maybe owned by the island caretaker. #elnido #snakeisland

Now these islands are just a start. Check out the other islands in...

Images of El Nido, The Island Series Part 2: Matinloc Shrine with a Hidden (Lagoon) and a Secret (Beach)

If you need some tips on how to go to El Nido and what to do there, you can check my other posts:
A Piece of Heaven on Earth called El Nido: My Best Shots
A Piece of Heaven on Earth called El Nido: Getting There and Other Things

A Piece of Heaven on Earth Called El Nido: Getting There and Other Things

2013-02-26T05:19:00.000-08:00

Going to El Nido has become easier through the years. With more flights going to Palawan, roads going up north from Puerto Princesa paved and maintained, tourism strengthened and coordinated with the tour operators, transport providers and hotels and resorts, more and more resorts and even small lodgings now offer bookings over the net....well, there's no reason not to go to El Nido anymore. Everyone should take time out to come here. For the unseasoned traveller, here's some things to keep in mind in planning your dream vacation to El Nido...

A wonderful mauve sunset, boats on the water for a night's rest. #pink sunset #sunsetinelnido

Well, planning for a sea adventure for El Nido requires that you check the weather. It should be on top of everyone's list. Schedule the trip when its Amihan time. That's when the wind a.k.a. stormy winds come from the eastern board of the country, leaving the west storm-free...well, most of the time. Also, consider the number of people trooping to El Nido each season. Summer is still best but it’s also the time when most travellers head out to the beach. We went this February, not too windy, not scorchingly hot, still a lot of travellers around but not that asphyxiatingly crowded. Well, 'twas a great time for a boat adventure....#elnido #sunsetinelnido

El Nido can be reached directly by air via SEA Air and Zest Air if you don’t mind the hefty price. You can also book your flights to Palawan’s capital, Puerto Princesa, which was what we did. Vans are available at the airport for P600 per pax for a 6-hour ride. Nice, air-conditioned buses are also now available at the San Jose Terminal, cheaper at around P400 but for an 8-hour ride. Bus trips are scheduled at 5 am, 7 am and 9 am. We didn’t try the bus so better check other sources for the cost and time of departure. Vans can be arranged where you booked your lodgings. One cannot estimate how much people are going to El Nido at a particular time. It was February, months away from summer yet almost all lodgings were full. Better arrange for sure transport and lodgings than be sorry. If you skip this part, well, there’s always the 6-hour van ride back to Puerto Princesa…no problem, right? #elnido

Don't worry about food along the way, the vans and buses has their designated 'lunch' stopovers. They were clean, not cheap but still affordable.

After a 6-hour ride, you'll see this sign, now time to wake up and open your groggy eyes for your first sight of El Nido.

Settle in first in your lodgings, assuming you had followed my advice on booking ahead. The town of El Nido has a crowded line-up of resorts, lodgings, accommodations of all sizes, price range and stars. Whatever suits you, whether your fancy or your wallet...just have patience and you'll find it on the net. Look for lodgings near the beachfront, though most of the time they are the most expensive. There are some accommodations still available farther in town, but if you ask me, it doesn't matter if you are willing to pay a small price for trykes (which are everywhere!) and a few minutes (3-10 min at most) before you get to the beach. I said it doesn't matter because the beach you see is not the prize...its the appetizer! you still need to hire a boat to get to the islands #elnido

When you get to El Nido, it will be easy to find a tour operator. Your hotel might have their own “suki” so try asking them first. You also need to buy lunch at the local market and your boatman and guide can help you cook it for a satisfying grilled-over-the-rocks island meal. The tours are arranged based on the clusters of islands for easy navigating. Here’s a rough sample of their tours:

Tour A: Simizu Island, Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commando

Tour B: Pangalusian Island, Snake Island, Cadugnon Cave, Pinagbuyutan island, Cathedral Cove

Tour C: Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Star Beach, Tapuitan Strait

Tour D: Cadlao Lagoon, Helicopter Island, Paradise Beach, Natnat Beach, Bucal Island

Now food, let's talk about food. there's a lot of restaurants and eateries in town. You won't get hungry. There are also bars that are open up to midnight. Now what is most interesting is the food you'll take to the islands!

If the tour operator includes food in his price and if that suits you, then no problem at all!. The boatman will prepare the food for you, grilled or packed lunch.

We kinda' liked a castaway sumptuous lunch so we bought our own fish, salted eggs and eggplant for grilling. If you're like us, you can drop by at the local market to buy fresh fish and vegetables for grilling! The tour operator was kind enough to shoulder the cooked rice, so we just went hunting for big fish for grilling...at the market, not the open seas!

Gear? Well, you better come prepared! Depends on your chosen adventure, your gear should suit you. Protection? Mosquito-repellent is a must! Some parts of the islands have been reported to have malaria-infested mosquitoes; sunscreen, the higher the UV protection the better (cannot get enough of this!), remember, you’re gonna go island hopping and not all islands have coconut trees for shade and sleeping; water gear: better check-in those fins and life vest (though all boats are required to have them on-board), snorkelling and scuba diving gear if you plan to dive (though these can be rented in town).

Now you're all set: hotel (check!), tour (check!), food (check!), gear (check!)….now what else? Hmmm….guess we have ‘em all. Now all we need to do is relax on the beach, wait for that glorious sunset, have dinner, head home to your lodgings, rest and wait for the excitement on the morrow…

Ready to see the islands? Browse through my next posts
Images of El Nido, The Island Series Part 1: From Helicopter to Snake with a Star in Between
Images of El Nido, The Island Series Part 2: Matinloc Shrine with a Hidden (Lagoon) and a Secret (Beach)

Now check my other post:
A Piece of Heaven on Earth called El Nido: My Best Shots

A Piece of Heaven on Earth Called El Nido: My Best Shots

2013-02-25T00:28:00.000-08:00

El Nido, situated at the northeastern tip of Palawan, is one of the most sought after destination in the Philippine Islands.

El Nido has that raw beauty, referred endearingly as the country’s ‘last frontier’. The November-December 2007 issue of the National Geographic Traveller’s Magazine has chosen Palawan as one of the best travel destinations in the world together with the Calamianes group of Islands, also in Palawan. Last year, CNN Go, the travel news website of CNN (obviously!) declared El Nido as the Philippine’s Best Beach and Island destination. Now what is it in El Nido that drew all these attention and accolades the world over? Longing to see its splendor first hand for the longest time, my friends and I finally headed out to Palawan to finally have a taste of what it’s like…

Mornings at El Nido is a misty, quiet hush broken only by the rhythmic splashes of its waves. The quiet mornings belie a hectic day – towering limestone cliffs, caves, white sand beaches, secret coves, hidden lagoons, snorkeling...and more. But first, savor the temporary tranquility of dawn, the calm before the tours, just before the boatman arrives. #elnido #bacuitbay

The wonders of El Nido mainly lie in its geological character. Its 45 islands and islets are scattered all over Bacuit Bay bordered by the Linapacan Strait in the north, the Sulu Sea in the east and the West Philippine Sea on the other side. Seen here is the highest point of El Nido, the peak of Cadlao Island towering at 640 meters above sea level. #elnido #bacuitbay

The islands feature uniquely different geological formations and attractions. A paper cited by wiki about the “North Palawan Block, Philippines--Its Relation to Asian Mainland and Role in Evolution of South China Sea” described these formations as part of a tectonic plate called Sunda, which are entirely separate from the rest of the Philippine Islands. That explains why the limestone cliffs, which are characteristic of the Sunda plate, found in El Nido are also similarly found in Ha Long Bay in Vietnam, Guilin in China and Krabi in Thailand – all of which are connected to the same Sunda Plate. That done, now back to English….#elnido #palawan

While first class accommodations and exclusive resorts are all over El Nido where swimming, kayaking, snorkeling and basking in the sun are done in style, the real fun is really in the tours offered by its operators in town. My assessment? definitely for the adventurous spirit, the strong swimmer, the rough rider....those not afraid to crawl, swim towards a hidden cove, explore a cave, cook and eat lunch survivor-style, never cringe on strong waves...well, doesn't sound a bit like me! but what the heck! only the waves made me cry, the rest made me stronger....#elnido #secretbeach

It’s not merely island hopping at El Nido, its island exploration at its best. For every island there seem to be a different kind of adventure, a surprise at every turn…and the whole day a series of fun. Whether you go for white sandy beaches, lush jungles, mangrove forests, caves or waterfalls, El Nido seems to have all of those. My friends and I took 2 of the four tours being offered in town. All the tours follow a standard itinerary…and even price regardless of who is offering it. Well, kudos to the Tourism office, the tour operators association and the LGUs for making it easy for us travellers to explore El Nido without being burdened by too much negotiating and haggling. #elnido #hiddenbeach #secretlagoon #palawan

Sunsets at El Nido...of course the sunset is its crowning glory. Situated in the western side of the Philippines made it picture perfect even more at the end of the day. Warm summers bring forth fiery hues. This is the beachfront facing Cadlao Island where most of the accommodations are thankfully located. Be sure to get lodgings near the beach, lots of good food and late night parties here, though quieter and tamer than in Boracay. #elnido #bacuitbay #cadlaoisland

Boats at Bacuit Bay….the fisherman’s friend right beside the rich guy’s toys, what a contradiction, anchored on the same seas….#elnido #bacuitbay

Remote and ruggedly pristine, such is the beauty of El Nido. I just tought that in its seclusion, who discovered this part of the world? The El Nido Tourism offered a story on the discovery of El Nido. It says that “a tuna line disable a dive boat’s propeller in the middle of the night forcing it to drop anchorin an inlet. The following morning, the divers woke up to an amazing scenery of skyscraping dark cliffs, thick green forest, white sand beach, sparkling water and, rising above it, a series of magnificently sculpted jade islands”. #elnidotourism

There's more than a grain of truth there. Navigating the whole bay allows you to see the magnificently sculpted jade islands. For the most part, the boat ride was easy. Just cutting through small waves rocking you to sleep. But sleeping through this waterworld is a travesty...even as the sun sets, the red fiery light gave different characters to the granite, marble and limestone cliffs. #elnido #sunsetinelnido

Beautiful sunsets, beautiful waters, imposing towering cliffs...it’s an extraordinarily magnificent world. There is no other way to describe it. #sunsetsinelnido #elnido

A wonderful beach and your wonderful friends…Paradise! #elnido #sunsetinelnido

When time permits, explore the island’s unique ecosystem. There’s more to this place’s geological playground. The Philippine government declared the entire area of El Nido as a turtle sanctuary in 1984, then a marine reserve park in 1991. Finally in 1998, its status was elevated to a managed resource protected area (El Nido Tourism). #elnido #sunsetinelnido

Yep, this is me courtesy of my friend Jhun. Tired but happy.

Well, this is just a start...of my El Nido story. My gigaton of pictures still did not give justice to the beauty of its islands. Flip through my next posts on our 3-day journey in Palawan's top islands....and enjoy! better yet, go to El Nido and tell your own story!

A Piece of Heaven on Earth: Getting There and Other Things
Images of El Nido, The Island Series Part 1: From Helicopter to Snake with a Star in Between
Images of El Nido, The Island Series Part 2: Matinloc Shrine with a Hidden (Lagoon) and a Secret (Beach)

Sea Fever....

2012-08-04T09:09:00.000-07:00

by John Masefield (from Salt-Water Ballads, 1902)

Siquijor

I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky,
And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by,

Calatagan

And the wheel’s kick and the wind’s song and the white sail’s shaking,
And a gray mist on the sea’s face, and a gray dawn breaking.

Calatagan

I must down go to the seas again, for the call of the running tide
Is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied;

Siquijor

And all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying,
And the flung spray and the blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying.

Biri Island, Samar

I must go down to the seas again, to the vagrant gypsy life,
To the gull’s way and the whale’s way, where the wind’s like a whetted knife;

Biri Island, Samar

And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover,
And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick’s over.

Calatagan

The sea for most is a sanctuary from a fast-paced life....longing for that serene moment, just the blues and greens and relaxing sound of the frolicking waves. It offers relief to a stressed-out soul, the weary eyes and tired feet...yet for me it’s more than the calm shores and the breezy air. The sea beckons my inner wild spirit, the curious mind and adventurous heart.

Siquijor

When the tide ceases, the bare sand and rocks may seem washed out and uninviting. Looking closely, it’s actually a banquet, a snapshot or a teaser for what’s out there in the ocean floor. Looking closely you’ll see, that the rocks and wet sand are teeming with life. Like a window that educates a curious mind.

Apo Island, Negros

When the tide is high, Mother Nature may let you swim in peace. But beware when the tempest comes. For that time, the sea commands respect. Yes, commands it for the sea can be ruthless sometimes, treacherous even…..mesmerizing one moment and then pulling you under the next.

Apo Island, Negros Oriental

For the sea should be valued for its beauty, and respected for its might…

Dinagyang 2012: Tribu Pan-ay, Ati Tribe Champs

2012-03-31T20:53:00.004-07:00

Tribu Pan-ay, Champion of the Dinagyang 2012 Ati Tribes Competition!

Tribu Pan-ay is composed of students from Fort San Pedro National High School. Their former name was Tribu San Pedro in honour of the apostle and saint believed by Christians as the keeper of Heaven’s gate (www.dinagyangsailoilo.com).

Even in the streetdance, you can say they were everybody’s favorite. Everybody cheered them as they go, the Festival kings! Why not? They were the grand champion of last year’s Ati competition, winning all the way to the Aliwan Festival of 2011, not only copping the crown as the best of the country’s festival of festivals, but were brought to no less than New York as part of the grand prize. Celebrities!

I was in the streets taking pictures from tribe one; they were third from last so it was a long wait. This was my first time to witness Dinagyang so I haven’t really seen them first hand. The minute I saw their mean-looking-larger-than-truck Eagle…I said ‘Oh Man! This one I gotta see!’.

So I raced back to the sports complex, wormed thru the crowds, past the stern-looking guardia civils (the crowd control police) onto the VIP platform (shhhhh!) and easeled up to the front albeit kneeling on the cement just to watch these kids.

Then it’s just WOW! If I wasn’t kneeling I would be jumping up and down cheering! Their energy was contagious! If I wasn’t taking pictures, I would be clapping and shouting together with five hundred people, cheering them on! But I had to check myself since I was a fugitive in the VIP platform or the people behind would have thrown me outside the grandstand rails.

The performance was indeed worthy of the reputation. Their eagle inspired costumes blending rhythmically with their master-crafted moves wowed the crowds, impressed the foreigners…and from what I heard all the way from judging area 1. I was in the last judging area, expecting the kids to tire this one out, but gee….just where did they get those energy!

Their repertoire was imaginative. Kind of a strange mix up of Ati lore, with the eagle and all that, but who cared? Nah! No one…everybody went wild! They had this electric appeal to the crowd.

Their number, I guess, was inspired from the power of an eagle, with the eagle-looking babaylans (or something), demonstrative of life I think…starting from the eagle’s eggs….

Then the white chicks….to the full-grown eagles….splendid!

Even their drummers were attuned to the theme, not only the rhythm!

Tribu Pan-ay was also a trending topic on Twitter after their winning performance was beamed live via local free television and live streaming. Aside from this year’s championship, Tribu Pan-ay won the award for best in costume designer, best in musical director, best in music, best in choreography and best in performance. Their choreographer, Mr. Rommel Flogen, was declared the best choreographer. Each minor award was worth P10,000. In the local news, Dr. Bresilda Floro, principal of FSPNHS and tribe manager of Tribu Pan-ay broadcasted her thanks to her students for showing their best in the competition. She promised that the tribe will work hard again to retain their crown for next year’s Dinagyang. Something’s telling me this isn’t my last Dinagyang…well then, I think that’s decided.

Here's what Tribu Pan-ay looked like before they donned their eagle skins!

Before I forget, here’s the complete list of winners in the Dinagyang Festival Competitions. Thank you all for making my Dinagyang moments just simply unforgettable!

Ati Tribes Competition:

Champion: Tribu Pan-ay

1^st Runner Up: Tribu Lunok

2^nd Runner Up: Tribu Ilonganon

3^rd Runner Up: Tribu Paghidaet

4^th Runner Up: Tribu Atub-Atub

Minor Awards went to:

Best in Street Dancing: Tribu Lunok

Best in Performance: Tribu Pan-ay

Best in Choreography: Tribu Pan-ay

Best in Music: Tribu Pan-ay

Best Musical Director: Tribu Pan-ay

Best Costume Designer: Tribu Pan-ay

Best in Discipline: Tribu Paghidaet

Best Headdress: Tribu Paghidaet

Best Choreographer: Tribu Pan-ay

The Kasadyahan Festival Winners:

Champion: Salakayan Festival of Miag-ao, Iloilo

1^st Runner Up: Tribu Mandaragat

2^nd Runner Up: Sinulog sang Oracon Festival of Sibunag, Guimaras

3^rd Runner Up: Sinadya sa Halaran of Capiz

4^th Runner Up: Tribu Maragtas of West Visayas State University

Minor Awards of Kasadyahan went to:

Best in Street dance: Tribu Panguyang of Antique

Best in Performance: Salakayan Festival of Miag-ao

Best in Choreography: Salakayan Festival

Best Choreographer: Salakayan Festival

Best in Music: Tribu Mandaragat

Best in Costume: Sinulog sang Oracon Festival

Overall, the Dinagyang was one helluva festival! Now I understand why some would say it’s magical. Yep, its magic worked on me…and I was intoxicated. Still smiling by the time I’m back in the office. The big banga last year, the eagle this year…now what is in store for next year! Ahh, can’t wait!

Missed the parade? here's my post of all the other tribes in action:
Dinagyang 2012: The Fast and Furious Ati Warriors of Iloilo

Dinagyang 2012: The Fast and the Furious Ati Warriors of Iloilo

2012-03-30T08:18:00.005-07:00

The Dinagyang Festival, one of a kind…

It’s currently one of the most popular among the grandest festivals in the Philippines. Why? For two years in a row, it has won the championship in the annual Aliwan Fiesta not to mention a maintstay in the top ten of the roster of winners in the ten year history of Aliwan. Just what is it with this festival? Everybody seems to have it in their bucketlist. I just have to see it for myself then.

Roaming the streets and talking with friendly ilonggos along the way, we learned that the word ‘dinagyang’ came from ‘dagyang’ which means merrymaking, well, the stuff festivals is made of. But the Dinagyang festival actually has cultural and religious roots. Though Dinagyang was only formally launched in 1977, its roots can be traced back as early as 1968 when a replica of the image of Sr. Santo Niño of Cebu was brought to the San Jose Parish Church by Fr. Suplicio Ebderes, straight from Cebu City and received in the City of Iloilo by the parish priest, Fr. Ambrosio Galindez, OSA, and then Mayor Renerio Ticao. The festival, thus, is a re-enactment of this act of goodwill and then taken a notch higher by infusing a deeply religious and cultural twist: by using it as a symbol of the evangelization of Panay, the assimilation of the catholic faith by the homegrown warriors of the land, the Aetas or the Ati people.

But the Dinagyang distinguished itself from its festival cousins, the Ati Festival in Aklan and Sinulog in Cebu, in that the Aetas color is brown. It is contrary to the popular belief that the original inhabitants in the Philippines are black. The Aetas, being the first known inhabitants of the land, are believed to have descended from the Malayans who have crossed land bridges from the Asian mainland at the time when the Malay Peninsula is still connected to Asia and Sumatra. Hence, Iloilo’s warriors color their skin brown and not black like the black Ati warriors of Aklan and Cebu.

It follows that the official festival mascot, Dagoy, sports a very rich brown complexion. He was born in 2002 but was only formally introduced in 2004 as a young Aeta warrior. A jolly and friendly face, Dagoy symbolizes the equally friendly nature of the Ilonggos. Dagoy stands six feet nine inches tall and wears a headdress with an image of the Santo Niño. He wears the typical loin garb of an aeta with his hands and feet adorned by multicolored beads in strings.

Dinagyang is celebrated on the day of the Santo Niño’s image's arrival which falls on the 4th Sunday of January. The celebration is complete with a fluvial procession that represents the image’s journey from the sea to the shores of Iloilo, a mass at San Jose Parish at the break of dawn, holding of the "Kasadyahan" as the opening event of the celebration, then the Ati warriors’ competition the following day. The kasadyahan is also a streetdance presentation that dramatizes the Aeta’s life, the arrival of the 10 Bornean datus in Panay and the christianization of the Aetas represented by the exchange of the Aetas of their land for the Borneans' Golden Salakot (native hat) and a long pearl necklace.

But the real excitement is when the warriors come to town. Yup, the Dinagyang warriors are known for their fierce moves, adrenaline-pumping choreography and visual feast of colors, designs and raw emotion. Dinagyang was once voted as the best Tourism Event for 2006, 2007 and 2008 by the Association of Tourism Officers in the Philippines. It is the first festival in the world to get the support of the United Nations for the Promotion of the Millennium Development Goals, and cited by the Asian Development Bank as Best Practice on government, private sector & NGO cooperations. This is what I came here for…..to be overwhelmed by Dinagyang’s magic! The pounding of the drums, the catchy music, the warriors strong voices as they chant “Hala Bira” in tune with their fast complicated repertoire…and you shout along “Viva El Señor Santo Niño!!!”.

Now let's see the contingents of the 2012 Dinagyang Ati Competition:

Tribu Paghidaet is from La Paz National High School and has always been an avid supporter of the Dinagyang Festival and the Kasadyahan. They started in 1999 and was Second runner-up. In 2000 and 2004, they won 3rd Place, they were again Second runner-up in 2001 and garnered back to back Championships in 2002 and 2003.

The tribe was judged as First runner-up and Best in Discipline in 2006 in the Kasadyahan Competition. In 2007, they were First Runner-up in the Dinagyang Competition and garnered the Best in Choreography, Choreographer, Music and Street Dancing awards.

The name was adopted because the Lapazenians believe that the Lady of Peace and Good Voyage is the strong force that blows on the tribe’s sails (www.dinagyangsailoilo.com).

Tribu Buntatalan-on is next on the list. But I can not find a background of the tribe. But I like their bright green costumes.

Tribu Salognon are composed of the students of Jaro National High School. The tribe got its name from Salog being the old name of Jaro. They had their maiden performance in 2004 and was 3rd runner-up in 2005 and the Most Colorful Costume award. In 2006, they were the Champion of the Best Tribe Competition. They also placed 2nd runner-up in the Best Warrior Tribe category. They were declared 2nd runner-up in 2007’s Dinagyang Ati competition (www.dinagyangsailoilo.com).

Tribu Lunok was made up of students from Iloilo City National High School and organized in 1998.

They won 2nd runner up in the Dinagyang Festival 1998, 1st runner-up and best in choreography in 1999; 1st runner-up and best in performance in 2000; 1st runner-up and best in discipline in 2002 and 2nd runner-up and best in discipline in 2004.

In 2005, they changed their name to Silak and garnered the best in choreography, performance and music awards.

They were 1st runner-up in 2006 and 3rd runner-up in 2007. For this year, their name is again Tribu Lunok (www.dinagyangsailoilo.com).

Next is Tribu Milagrosa of Zarraga National High School. They might have changed names over the past years since I cant find a match.

I like this fellow a lot, he looked so happy.

And they performed nice too! gee, I got good pictures of them...

Their ladies were kinda nice too...

Tribu Pag-asa was founded in 2002 with the tribe’s name meaning hope. Their previous name was Kongo/Kanyao (www.dinagyangsailoilo.com).

Tribu Ilonganon, a term coined from the word “Ilonggo” means a native of Iloilo. They are the pride of Jalandoni Memorial National High School (formerly Lapuz High School.)

Their entry name under Kasadyahan was Tribu Lapus-Lapus derived from the name of the district where the school is situated - Lapuz.

They first joined the Ati competition in 2005 and was 2nd Runner-up. In 2006, They were declared Champion of the Dinagyang Festival and got the Presidential Trophy; They were also awarded Best in Performance, Choreography and Choreographer on that same year.

The tribe was again declared Champion in 2007 and won the Best in Performance and Costume awards (www.dinagyangsailoilo.com).

Their ladies are prettier and regal...

Their props, not to be belittled...

Commanding, like their giant Santo Nino...

Tribu Molave was founded in 1979 and was previouslay called Tribu Barangayan. They changed it to Molave in 1980 obviously got the name from the tree. The tribe was 3rd Runner-up in 1999, 2nd Runner-up in 2000 and champion from 2001-2002 in the Barangay Category. They also got the Best in Costume and Performance awards in the same year (www.dinagyangsailoilo.com).

A special favorite tribe of mine, Tribu Atub-Atub was founded in 1971. They have a long list of achievements since they first joined the festival.

They reaped the Championship awards for the years 1978, 1983, 1988, 2000, 2003 and 2004. They also garnered the 1st runner-up in the Aliwan Dance Competition in 2003.

The tribe was again the Grand Champion for the 2nd Aliwan National Dance Parade Competition in 2004. Atub-Atub also performed in the Independence Day celebration in Intramuros and at WOW Philippines best of the regions showcase (www.dinagyangsailoilo.com).

Atub-Atub was my favorite because of these cheeky, charming blue ladies....

They were fun, exciting...pretty and so electric!

I had so much fun watching them dance...they definitely got my thumbs up!

Tribu Aninipay was founded in the year 2000. The tribe's name was taken from a kind of grass which grows abundantly in a rocky and mountainous area in Panay where a certain tribe inhabits. The tribesmen then identified themselves as Tribu Aninipay.

The tribe was able to bag the 2nd place in the 2000 competition and they were also awarded the Best in Discipline on the same year. They were also the Most Colorful tribe in the 2003 competition (www.dinagyangsailoilo.com).

Bantu tribe was conceptualized in 2003 and had its first performance in the Dinagyang Festival last 2004.

The tribe got its name from a place in Africa which has an abundance of crops such as banana and has its people believing in spirits found in stones (www.dinagyangsailoilo.com).

Sorry, it seems I missed one tribe in the lot. Tribu Angola was probably the last one out. I have no pictures of them. The tribe’s previous name was Tribu Ambal and is the legendary cannibal tribe of Zambales. The founder wanted to depict them not as cannibals but as a tribe that gives honor to Señor Santo Niño. Then in 1989, the tribe’s name was changed to Angola. Angola was 4th Runner-up in Dinagyang 2000 and they were the Best in Discipline in 2001 (www.dinagyangsailoilo.com).

So there! We obviously got our share of fun (thanks Mel D. for this picture)

Well, some of the things the Dinagyang festival became known for are the innovations that they brought to the way festivals are being held nowadays. These are the carousel performance (holding of sequential performance in four areas not one); the mobile risers (adds depth to Dinagyang choreography which has been adopted by other festivals) and the Dinagyang pipes (which I didn’t notice but was first used in 2005 and made of PVC pipes, emitting a distinct sound depending on length and diameter).

Also, as you can see the costumes of each tribe are an art form by themselves. Only native materials are allowed. This is an excerpt from Tribu Lunok’s description of their costume “Aligned to the advocacy of the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation of a pro-nature ‘Green Dinagyang Festival’. The materials used are feather, rubber, coconut shell, beads, sawali, raffia, abaca twine, bamboo pole, dried and hardened leaves. The headdresses are made of black, bloody red and orange feathers. The vests are made of woven bamboo strips which are meticulously cut to fit the warriors’ size, sewn and glued with feathers. The loin covers are made of red and yellow beads. The spears are made of bamboo poles, the shields are made of raffia, abaca twine and coconut shells."

How to enjoy Dinagyang? here are some tips to enjoy the Festival to its fullest:

Stay tuned to the announcements from the official website of the event organizers, Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation, Inc. www.dinagyangsailoilo.com, learn the parade route, the schedule for the Kasadyahan Competition and the Ati Warrior Competition.
The Dinagyang highlight events are always scheduled on the fourth weekend of January, so be sure to book months and months ahead.
Also, try to scout for hotels near where the parade usually runs. Everyone will have his/her chance of seeing the streetdance and performance since Dinagyang is the only festival I know that holds the competition in four judging areas. Meaning, the contingents shall dance their way to all four judging areas and perform. Pretty tiring, huh?
Familiarize yourself with the four judging areas. For this year, 2012, the first judging area was at the Freedom Grandstand, J. Basa St. This was the first and the most expensive (P1,200). Did I mention that seats in all 4 places were not free? Well, yeah. The Freedom Grandstand was where the Diplomats and celebrities were seated. The second was in front of the old Iloilo Provincial Capitol (P1,000). The third was near Gaisano Mall (P1,000) corner Hechanova and Luna Sts. The last area was at the Sports Complex (P300). No switching of tickets, each area was color coded so better pick one where you can get a seat up front. I recommend judging area 2 because its smaller, you can get a real good view but it’s a very small area, tickets were very limited. Well, the sports complex aint bad if all you want is a good time.
If you need to get good pictures, then better get an accreditation from the Dinagyang foundation. That’s for serious photographers, bloggers and media. The ID will allow you to roam around free as usual.
Buy tickets first upon landing in Iloilo, or have someone buy some for you. Tickets can be bought from the Tourism Office at the Freedom Grandstand, at the Iloilo City Hall and at Robinsons Place.
The streetdance has always been scheduled to start at 7 am., but they usually start at around 8 am or 9. But the crowds are unimaginable, so be sure to be where you paid for as early as 7 am (for judging area 1) and 9 am for the others. Take note that the performances are held at four judging areas sequentially, from 9 am to 12 noon. So time your itinerary accordingly.
Don’t worry about food, food are peddled everywhere. Take your pick: Jollibee, ChowKing, Purefoods Hotdog, etc. Water too, so it’s a comforting thought that you won’t get hungry.

Now, that sums it all up. But wait! wondering where the grand champion was for this year? The winner was indeed a spectacle! They won in the 2011 Aliwan Festival and was the first festival winner to perform in New York! yep, warriors, drummers and all....pretty lucky aren't they? but they definitely were the greatest, and it seems that nobody's stopping them now. Guessing now? well, they will be gods of my next post! so wait for it...

Next Post: Dinagyang 2012: Tribu Pan-ay Ati Tribe Champs

Panagbenga 2012: Schedules & Tips for a Hit and No Miss Flower Festival

2012-01-28T07:04:00.000-08:00

Ahh! Bagiuo....its been a while.

Bagiuo has always been my refuge. An easy sanctuary from both the hustle and bustle of a hippie life and the scorching heat of cement, steel and sun. Though my genes contain 'city' in their transcript, i always miss the cool breezes of Bagiuo. Just a bus away, thanks to the hourly Victory Liner for the most part...and you're there.

So much for the musings. Now I believe everyone in the country, especially our visitors and people in the Metro should experience the Panagbenga at least twice in their lives. Its Bagiuo at its best.


Though the Panagbenga is formally launched around November of each year, the culmination held every last weekend of February is always a sight to see and an experience to remember. Now, if you are itching to get your feet up in Bagiuo for a flowery treat, then take note of the Schedule:

Panagbenga 2012 Launch and Concert: November 14, 2011

Panagbenga Opening Parade: February 1, 2012

Market Encounter: February 1 to March 4, 2012

Let a Thousand Flower Bloom: February 11, 2012

Handog ng Panagbenga sa Bagiuo: February 12, 2012

Fluvial Float Parade: February 12, 2012

Ipitik Festival: February 17-20, 2012

Chinese Spring Festival: February 21, 2012

Grand Street Dancing Parade: February 25, 2012

Grand Float Parade: February 26, 2012

Session Road in Bloom: February 27 to March 4, 2012

Pony Boy's Day: March 2, 2012

Panagbenga Closing Ceremonies and Grand Fireworks Display: March 4, 2012

In planning for Panagbenga, the best thing is always planning ahead...way, way ahead. I mean, by December you should already be booking a hotel, your bus ticket going to Bagiuo AND your trip home. Its a must, 'coz when you're there, it seems like the whole country is gathered there for a feast. In looking for a hotel, book the ones near session road. It's where all the action will be. I'm so sorry I don't have a list and the numbers, but next time i will. But the net has everything, try searching for Bagiuo hotels, all of them sure are advertising early.

Although it would be grand to see the celebration through and through, us busybodies just have to work. But if you need to choose the days, then choose well. I'd recommend concentrating on the Grand Streetdance to the Grand Float Parades. Those two made Panagbenga famous. If it would not hurt to use a couple more sick leaves, then extending your stay up to the Closing and Fireworks would be much more satisfying. BUT, dont miss the market encounter! there you can find Bagiuo's best products for the taking!

But the Market Encounter is not located at the Central Market. Its around Burnham Park, behind it, well...at least last year Its not free too. There will be an entrance fee .... uhm, i forgot now how much it was, but its rather cheap like a 10 or 20. But the things you will find there are endless. Just make sure you can carry'em all back. The things i can't live without while there? strawberries and Sagada oranges!

Vegetables too are a hit. They're all fresh as can be. From the green leafy ones to the root crops of all sizes and colors. From the ones you are most familiar, to those you'll swear you see for the first time (true in my case!). If only I have a trailer, and a walk-in fridge, then i'll buy a ton.

OH! before I dwell in my reveries of food and shopping, I need to tell you about the Parade. Well, the common tale you'll hear from one who've been to Panagbenga and back is the waiting-since-dawn routine. Well, it's true. Some even sleep in tents just to secure a place somewhere in the pavement stretch of Session Road where the parade will pass. The parade will start around 8 am, but you will still manage to squeeze through people if you'll be there at 6 am. Yup, the earlier the better. So remember:

1. Be early, earlier than 6 am is good

2. Scout the day before along session road for a good vantage point, both to see above the heads and to take pictures. The session road is long, if you can manage to secure a sweet spot in front of the PLDT, then that's the best place. Otherwise, get on the footbridge or travel upstream (past SM City going to Victory Liner Station) where the assembly starts.

3. Bring newspapers or something you can sit on. the parade will last for at least 3-4 hours so your knees will need some break

4. Bring snacks, even if you plan to take a very heavy breakfast. You don't want to be fainting while the parade is still on, your friends will hate you.

5. Protection from cold is standard enough. BUT bring sunscreen. Yup, sunscreen. I really got pink cheeks and they're not from the 2 kilos of strawberries I ate.

6. Water. With too many people, and the parade being magical, there isn't just time to get out of line to buy water. Although you can risk your health and buy the ones sold in the streets.


Now there! that just about sums up what I know will make your flower festival festive. If you are a photographer, its always best to get an accreditation from the organizer so you can roam around like Gods! ha! but decent pictures can still be taken if you are early enough to get at least a front seat...I mean, pavement. Also, the grounds where the competition will be held offers a lot of photo opportunities since the streetdancers shall all be lined up there waiting for their turn to compete. Just don't forget to ask very nicely if you want them to pose. They are also tired you know, especially the kids.

If you want to watch the competition, the grandstand is a lot of space. But the really good spots are reserved for the VIPs, as always. That's where photographers reign supreme. But you can always squeeze in to get a good look. Another mental note: bring your telephoto lens! chances are, you'll need them badly. Have a fast lunch, then scurry down to the Quirino (?) Area for a nice front seat. I still dont know what that area is called. I'll ask a friend.


It's always fulfilling to experience Panagbenga. Now, are you all locked and loaded ready for a swing? But remember, after enjoying the full colors of the flowers in bloom, ogling innocently at the graceful dancers of the parade, please dont forget to pick up your trash. Even if Baguio City is also known for its sturdy 'walis tambo', leaving no trash behind completes one happy journey. Always does.

So c'mon, pack your gears and let's go up north this coming February.

For a good look of what happened last year at Panagbenga 2011, look here:

Panagbenga 2011 Part 1: The 16th Bagiuo Flower Festival Grand Parade and Streetdance Competition

Christmas in the City: Light & Sound Show at the Ayala Triangle

2011-12-26T03:44:00.000-08:00

Christmas time! but nothing like in the city!

When the ber-months finally set in, you can't help but notice the lights! the blues, reds and neons....at the malls, the roads, streets even houses. They all lit up at nighttime with all those christmas stars, lanterns, reindeers, santas, candy canes and giant christmas trees. The city is alive and electric on Christmas!

I love spending the season in the metropolitan and gawk at what seems to be a contest for the best lighted street, or the most-decorated malls. Its nice to stay up late at this time of the year, the atmosphere really is festive! My special favorite is the city of Makati, with its large concentration of malls, no nook and cranny is dark at night. And talking 'bout lights, the Ayala Triangle tops 'em all!!

Along Ayala Avenue in the midst of the city lies an open green space - the Triangle. All year round it serves as an oasis in the middle of the Makati skycraper jungle. a nice place to stroll, breathe air, jog, laze around and eat! During christmas, the whole park lights up! lights dancing to the tune of old christmas carols to what makes out to be an entertaining Light and sound show!

Now the strollers are given a treat every night starting November? or even much earlier. The show starts at 7 pm, runs every 30 minutes up to 9 pm.

It can get really get exciting when the show starts. The only downside to it is the relentless traffic. But nevertheless, kids from all ages, 1 month to 90-plus years, come and enjoy the show!

Wait till the whole park is lit up in alternating colors: red, blue, green, gold - looks like something straight out from pixieland!


Absolutely magical, like melting lights

AND did I mention it was free??? yup, just stroll around!

Or stars scattered densely in the night

Awashed in red light

Now in cool blues

In red and green while jingle bell rock played

To green and white and shooting lights!

Now if christmas spirit is represented by light...it'll be a rainbow. Merry Christmas to all!

Tribu K' Mindanawan: Jammin' with the Fire Dancers

2011-12-16T23:11:00.000-08:00

The City of Davao never runs out of exhilarating things to do, appealing to all genuses of travelling folks. Be it the backpacker kind, the happy vacationist type, the extreme adventurer or the intellectual/creative sort, Davao City has lots to offer.

If you are looking for a kick that is very near the city, both the cultural and sizzling kind, a good place to check out is the Tribu K’ Mindanawan!

Being an adventurer by christening, I have my eyes set as far away from the city as possible. It was only due to time constraints (and budget) that made me consider looking for interesting places that is quite nearer downtown. That’s when I heard of Tribu. Tribu is located at the Davao Riverfront Corporate City, just 15 minutes away from the city proper. It’s a somewhat new commercial area along the Ma-a Diversion Highway. Yup, it’s where you can also find the Davao Crocodile Park, the Davao Butterfly House and the booking office of the Davao Wildwater Adventure. The thing is, the entrance fee actually covers the crocodile park, the tribu and an optional tour to the Butterfly house.

So after visiting our croc friends….

Got mesmerized by the flighty butterflies….

Then get yourself ready for tribu!

But wait, Tribu K’ Mindanawan is essentially a cultural showcase of the lives of the different indigenous people in Mindanao. Going around the small park, it features replicas of the different huts and home structures that are characteristic of each tribe, their native garb, and their way of life. Cultural presentations of the tribes’ music, dance and rituals are presented every weekend starting at around 4 or 5 pm. Next time I shall feature Mindanao's rich cultural diversity. But for this trip, I was actually waiting for the finale!! Like taking a swig of a very refreshing and educational cultural quencher, you go lookin' for the fiery chaser. This is what made Tribu really exciting….the firedance.

As it turned out, its not just a play of fire by kids half my age (oops! you didn't catch that, did you??). But a real show of talent, guts and showmanship....

They are different from Boracay's firedancers. The kids' choreography is much more varied, and the wow factor multiplied a hundred times!

Their moves are fast, hippy and visually exciting! this is Boracay, with the hippy dance moves but without the alcohol!

Cant help clapping and jumping up and down my seat as I was thrilled and somewhat intoxicated by the fire!

A little worried by their confidence, but its just the cowardly me speaking...

Like literally walking through the fire...

I was speechless, a little scared...even my camera stopped blinking for a while.

Reckless? or just their signature daredevil moves. Argh! fiery!

The ladies are not so fire-shy themselves...

With their fiery hulahoops in hand...

The phrase playing with fire becomes visually entertaining...

Now, I have to remind myself to breathe from time to time...

And she looked like she is just having tea...

Is this the son of Hades? Vulcan himself or the Diablo's awakening...

Whatever imagery your mind can concoct by watching this fiery show...

...all are welcome and more! these kids mixed hiphop with fire! a fresh new look at firedancing!

The show lasted for 30 minutes, how fast time flies. By the time the show ended, the audience wanted more! me too! fire always got me scared, but not this time. definitely not...

Oh well, i was just joking. Fire still freaks me out. But I'm not gonna pass up the chance to pose with this pretty firedancer!

'Twas a fiery night cap! If you ever pass by crocodile park, dont miss out on this one. The firedance show is up every weekend, Fridays to Sundays at 5 pm.

The 32nd Manila International Book Fair: Filipino Literary Giants and Pinoy Pop Culture Icons for a Change

2011-09-18T22:56:00.000-07:00

It’s Book Fair time again!

The 32^nd Manila International Book Fair 2011 is an annual event and one of the longest running in Asia. It’s not your regular sale where prices are slashed down and old inventories resurface from stockrooms. Though discounts still run like wildfires across every booth, the price is not all there is. The Book Fair is being promoted as a special event where publishers, booksellers, authors, author wannabes and bookworms of all degrees and ages gather together to celebrate the power of the written word, the passion for reading and the thirst for knowledge.

Surely, the MIBF has become a tradition for Filipinos. I can say that I am a regular, having attended three years in a row now. Year after year, I make my way to SMX (where it is held yearly) and hunt for rare finds. From science books to trade books, poetry to novels, economics to biotechnology, management to photography….my list is just endless.

And year after year, I revelled at finding books by authors the likes of Friedman, Mohr, Drucker, Tushman, Bell to the more popular Meyer, Rowlings and Ward. This year, I thought it’ll be the same; making may way to National, Goodwill, A-Z, C&E, UP Press, Ateneo Publishing…until I found myself in Anvil.

I noticed a rather old, dignified man sitting alone at a table. Maybe it was just for a while till the Anvil staff or even the head sit down again to chitchat. But, he was there, signing the inside covers of, presumably his book. I followed the staff, which carried his signed books, with my eyes raring to know who the lonesome man was. In this crowded exhibition floor, with book launchings and interviews left and right, why was his booth not particularly….lively. I followed where his books nestled. Beauty for Ashes: Remembering Maningning by Dr. Mario Miclat. There, I came to know a gifted man and his equally gifted daughter Maningning….

Dr. Mario Miclat is a full professor of Asian and Philippine Studies at the University of the Philippines. I learned that he won the most outstanding lifetime award for literature in the 2006 Patnubay ng Sining at Kalinangan. He is also a Palanca awardee in English Fiction and Gawad CCP para sa Panitikan award in 1989. But what drew me most to this multi-awarded author, was his moving recount of the death of his daughter Maningning, herself an accomplished writer and painter at age 28, the stark realization, the heroic effort of moving on and the still lingering pain many years after.

What a story…how sad. I decided to buy his book out of deference to his love for his daughter, and admiration on the rhythmic prose of his book. I approached him, shook his hand and told him to keep on writing. I got an autograph, a smile and a picture in return!

Then I realized, I miss the old short stories I read when I was still in grade school and high school…stories written by Filipino writers. I started my journey in reading by devouring the pages of my first children's book – Mga Alamat sa Pilipinas. Who have not read Bienvenido Santos’ “The Day the Dancers Came” or Nick Joaquin’s “Summer Solstice”? Little did I know that what I was reading then were works of some of the literary greats of our time. Reveries, but then again why not go back? Yes, I am going to look for my old short story books, look up Filipino short stories and novels and add them to my book-shopping list from now on.

If Filipino readers can be avid fans of Rowlings, Meyer and Ward, why not of Santos, Arcillana, Joaquin and even Polotan? Yes, we definitely love their stories and they are all worth reading once again, but this time with admiration and pride.

My short journey to Philippine literature did not end there. I looked around and saw Pol Medina Jr. of the Pugad Baboy series. Who did not laugh along the comical but witty lines of Polgas, Tiny and the rest of the gang? The strikingly Filipino illustrations of the comic strip are stories filled with truly Pinoy antics, spoofs and sometimes political satire. One reason why it became so popular is because it mirrors the sentiments of Filipino daily life. It’s part of Filipino pop culture.

The comic strip has been around since 1988, once exclusive only to the Philippine Daily Inquirer but has spawned numerous compilations, a live-action TV series and merchandise. I bought the second compilation of the best of Pugad Baboy, missed the first one, but got an autograph! I would have loved seeing the original Polgas on the set.

I looked around once again and homed towards the table of what seemed to be an artist, sketching a portrait of a middle-aged lady sitting across the table from him. Gee, he drew the woman well. But who was this artist? I learned that he is Danny Acuña, a Pinoy komik illustrator, helping promote a compilation of some of the greatest works of Pinoy komik heroes and their artists. The book entitled “Renaissance: Ang Muling Pagsilang”. Let me share the Preface by Ruel de Vera of the book for I can not think of better words to introduce them….

“They were the first generation of Filipino comic book artists, islanders in the strange land of America, with names that buzzed with power like Romeo Tanghal, Nestor Redondo, Ernie Chan, Tony de Zuniga, Alfredo Alcala. Alex Nino, among others, working on comics with a C. They gave sinew to Barbarians, flight to superheroes, romance to the loveless. Back home, with the sun rising dizzyingly high over an art form called komiks with a K, other masters drew and even wrote sagas and epics, names like Francisco Coching, Floro Dery and Mars Ravelo. They were the immortals, and a new generation of demigods looked upon them in awe and aspiration.”

“From an archipelago surrounded by endless water but whose very veins are ringed by fire rose an amazing legion of creators. It did not matter if they were pure-blood or half-, if they are naturally born or foreign citizens by bitrth. It did not matter if they plied their wares in Manila or Manhattan, San Diego or San Pablo. On the Web or off it. Some of them have discovered the power of animation. They were Filipino comic book artists and their ascension had come.”

My artist is a veteran komiks artist who started sketching at a young age of eight (I asked!). He started his career as an assistant komiks illustrator to some of komik’s legendary artists such as Fred Carillo, Nestor Malgapo, Rico Rival, Elmer Esquivas and Mar Santana. He eventually built his own name as an artist, drawing various illustrations for some of the top komiks nobelas in the Philippines. Some of the komiks credited to his name are Orbot ‘D Robot, Buchicoy, Chutay, Satania (Devil Woman), Bangkay Kitang Hahakbangan, Domino Blanco, Killer Gay and Mabangis na Pagbabalik. He has a recently released graphic novel, Majarlica: Bayan ng Agimat and currently working on 3^rd Eye.

I liked my portrait. It was a feat since I kept smiling at guests; looking at all the books scattered on the table, and just proved how impossible a model I was. But it didn’t matter to him. His experienced eyes and deft hands had drawn quiet a sensible portrait of me; though I would have loved a Darna-like diadem on my head for a change!

It was near closing time when I got up and left the Anvil Publishing Booth with a smile. I have never imagined myself going nostalgic over short stories of my childhood and teenage years and star-struck from my recent brush with the literary and pop culture icons of our country. I still will read the Inkheart series that I got my eye on, but my bookshelves will definitely have more space for our very own literary greats from now on.

Rizal-Laguna Loop Part 2: Palm Sunday in Antipolo

2011-04-18T01:13:00.001-07:00

Palm Sunday at Antipolo

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Rizal-Laguna Loop Part 1: The Lake Beckons

2011-04-17T21:36:00.001-07:00

Its the Holy Week once again, a time when most Filipinos would take this opportunity to rekindle their catholic faith by immersing themselves in the celebration of the true meaning of lent. Lent, we Filipinos have our ways and traditions that brings this season to life.

Looking for the best way to spend this lenten season? try going around the Lake!

Ahh…the Lake.

I live along the fringes of Laguna lake, in one of the towns that hugs its shoreline. I always love looking at her thru my bedroom window. Not much on what’s happening on the waters itself, but more on the different cultures that sprouted around the lake since pre-hispanic times for which the lake gave birth to.

The lake…its like a single canvass containing a multitude of strokes, of different colors, of different folks. With Laguna on its borders in the east, west and southwest; the province of Rizal bordering the north to northeast; and finally the Metropolitan in the northwest, the lake boasts of what might be the highest diversity of cultures, traditions and sceneries congregated around its heart-shaped area.

From town to town, one can fetch a different story, taste different food and experience local Tagalog traditions at its best. The term ‘tagalog’ must have come from the term ‘Taga-Ilog’ or from the riverside according to historians, while the term ‘Bay’ must have come from the term ‘baybay’ as what the taga-ilogs called the enormous lake.

Town to town, around the lake….not a bad idea. Others have traversed this route for different reasons. Capturing on digital film the beautiful sceneries that the provinces of Rizal and Laguna has to offer, or a food trip around the lake would not be so bad, or a shopping spree of the different native products from the cashew nuts and ‘suman’ of Antipolo, to the wood carvings of Paete to the delicately embroidered pińa cloth of Lumban…definitely the lake will not cease to amaze even the most seasoned traveller.

But what could be the best time to go around the lake? Three years ago, we decided to make this trip, packed our car and armed with a map, we began our sojourn through the towns sitting around the lake during the most culturally loaded but solemn occasion of our catholic nation….the Holy Week. Since then, going around the lake on Semana Santa also became a yearly tradition for me. This Holy Week, come travel with me as we experience the best of Filipino traditions and culture around the lake…..

Watch out for my following posts:

Part 2: Palm Sunday in Antipolo

Part 3: A Gathering of Saints in Binangonan

Part 4: Calvary Hill in Binangonan

Part 5: Atypical Church of Morong

Part 6: The Quaint Old Church of Baras

Part 7: The Heritage Church of Tanay

Part 8: Pililla at the Edge of Rizal

Part 9: Crossing the Border, from Rizal to Laguna

Part 10: Our Lady of Turumba Church in Pakil

Part 11: On a Good Friday at Pakil

Part 12: Paete, the Old Stone Church and its Carvers

Part 13: The ‘Prusisyon’ in Paete

Part 14: Church at Pinagsangahan, Pagsanjan

Part 15: Historical Church of Magdalena

Part 16: So High at Majayjay

Part 17: Besides its Shoes, Stand the Magnificent Church of Liliw

Part 18: The Old Heritage Houses of Pila

Part 19: The Church of Old Pila
Part 20: Going Home

Laguna de Bay, is the largest lake in the Philippines and the third largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. “Laguna de Bay” is an old Spanish term for Lake of Bay, Laguna which is Spanish for lake and Bay, one of the earliest towns in Laguna (wiki). It was Captain Juan de Salcedo who ‘discovered’ Laguna Lake when he sailed on the lake through the Pasig River to discover populated communities on its shores in August 19, 1571. Captain Salcedo is the grandson of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, the Philippines’ first Spanish designated governor. Since Salcedo chose to land in Bay, (could have been “Baybay” meaning lakeside) he named the lake “Laguna de Bay,” where the province got its name “La Provincia de la Laguna De Bay”. But even before tha Spaniards came, Laguna de Bay and Pasig River were the natives’ expressway to Maynilad, now Manila. The river and the lake was also the trading route of Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese merchants bartering their potteries and other goods with local products in the 14th and 15th Century (www.laguna.gov.ph).

It’s a shame that the lake has continued to suffer pollution particularly around the metropolitan side, though government and non-government entities had worked hard to keep further pollution at bay, no pun intended. Thanks to its great size, lake pollution has not spread throughout making it relatively manageable to keep the lake still fit for freshwater fishes to live. The lake is a primary source of freshwater fish in the country. The lake is actually shaped like an italicized ‘W’ with two peninsulas jutting out from the north. Between the peninsulas, the middle lobe fills a large volcanic basin. It is believed that the lake was formed by two major volcanic eruptions more than a million year ago (wiki).

So much history revolves around the lake and its surrounding towns. What is more rewarding is simply to live it, experience it and feel it as you take the road to go around the historical and culturally-rich route of the Rizal-Laguna Loop.

Next:

Rizal-Laguna Loop Part 2: Palm Sunday in Antipolo

Just Passing by in Albay

2011-04-12T03:02:00.000-07:00

Travelling in Bicol by land gives one a sentimental journey through quaint straw houses, rolling hills and blue skies. It’s a welcome contrast from my home city where tall buildings are the only treats you have from the harsh sun.

I’ve always loved taking this dreamy ride down the road from Sorsogon to Legazpi. Just a perfectly sleepy afternoon, yet contentedly sucking in the flavourful panorama of Bicolandia from our van window. Funny how life seems so slow in this region where the pounding of strong typhoons and monsoons is very much part of everyday life. Makes one think and admire the resilience of the Bikolanos as they steadfastly defy Mother Nature’s mood swings. Ah! Bicol…a land of contradictions.

After an exhilarating adventure in Donsol, my friends and I packed our bags, took the van going to Legazpi and prepared ourselves to another bout of the long bus ride home. But wait! Who would want to leave Bicol without a glimpse of the perfect Mayon? So we took a short detour and head out to the Cagsawa Ruins….

My batteries conked out by this time so I have to ask my friend, Mel Dimapilis, to lend me her pictures for this post. Thanks Mel!

Mayon Volcano is an active volcano that forms part of the Ring of Fire in the Pacific Rim. Mayon is famous for its ‘perfect cone’, almost symmetrical and smooth. If not for the 49 eruptions in its 400 years recorded history (wiki), the cone today would have been as perfect as it was centuries ago. It still was beautiful, well, if it showed itself. The clouds were relentless when we got there. Gee, methinks it wanted us to go back…

Folklore has it that the name Mayon is adopted from the legendary heroine Daragang Magayon (Bikol for ‘Beautiful Lady’). The locals would add that if Mayon did not show itself to you, then it only means she wants you to come back. I already said yes but guess she was not convinced…oh well, we still loved her just the same.

Though the best view of Mayon is from Lignon’s Hill, still in Albay, the most famous view area is the Cagsawa ruins. The most destructive eruption of this still active volcano was in 1814 when it buried the town of Cagsawa. The bell tower is the only remnant of the church buried by the volcanoe’s lava. Looking at the history of this temperamental volcano, it can be said that it is the most active in the country, erupting several times…and devastating when it did.

The Cagsawa Ruins is not only a place of historial value, but it also became a one-stop-shop for shoppers looking for anything Bikol - from food, handicrafts, shirts, even lava rocks if you please - thus, a haven for souvenir-hunters like me!

Bicol is known for pili, abaca and chili. The culture and development of the Bicol region were pretty much influenced by those three.

The pili tree bears fruit which is green to violet and contains the seed whre the famous pili nut can be found. The shell itself is so hard that cracking the pili nut is a talent among the bikolanos.

The pili nut, Canarium ovatum, is found mostly in Bicol and is native to the

Philippines

. The nut is considered a cross between a macadamia and almond and is used in confectioneries such as candies, chocolates, ice cream and baked products. In Bicol, pili products can be seen all throughout the region and in different forms: sugar-coated, in small breads and the famous marzipan de pili. Marzipan in other parts of the world is a bar or paste made of sugar and ground almonds. Mazapan (as what the locals call it) or Marzipan de pili is an adaptation where almonds are replaced by grounded pili nuts. Yum! Uh-oh I accidentally ate mine while walking, so no pictures were taken by Mel.

The pili tree is a tall, oak-like tree, averaging 20 meters tall, resinous and resistant to strong winds and harsh weather; which is why they thrive effortlessly in bicol. There are three pili cultivars grown in the Philippines: katutubo, mayon and oas (Agribusinessweek, 2009). Aside from a large tract of land planted to pili trees in Negros, there is still considered no commercial planting of the tree as a crop. Fruits are collected from gigantic trees (some are even centuries old they say) in the mountains near the provinces of Sorsogon, Albay, and Camarines

Sur.

Harvest season is from May to October, peaking in June to August.

Though other Asian countries are also planting pili, they are mostly grown as ornamentals. It’s only in the Philippines that pili nuts are produced and processed commercially. In 1977, the country exported around 3.8 tons of pili products to Guam and Australia. In the pre-war era, pili nuts were already being exported to Hawaii, Germany, France, Britain, and Japan, according to the Plant Industry Digest published in 1970. To date, the only large buyers left are Hong Kong and Taiwan, where the nuts are used in the Chinese festive dessert known as the “moon cake” (Agribusinessweek, 2009).

I was still trailing Mel around the souvenir stores of Cagsawa, expecting to see just pili products and abaca handicrafts, when we chanced upon this stall selling big knives called "itak" and even swords. Apparently, these metalworks ae considered an industry in Tabaco, Albay...a town next to Legazpi. My naughty uncles once told me that the bikolanos used the steel from the railtracks to make these knives. Ha! well of course those stories were not true. The small metalworks industry is supported by the Department of Trade in Albay to improve the locals' skill and, thus improve their productivity.

I found these beautiful shell curtains when I lost Mel, so I used my phone cam...not bad for a celphone! a lot of stores also sell shell products. I think these products were made in Ragay, Camarines Sur. I'm not sure so I'll do some research in the future.

I found Mel again taking pictures of another important product of Bicol: abaca. The bicol region ws once the flourishing capital of abaca long before the Americans came. Abaca, or Musa textilis, is indigenous to the Philippines, our very own. That's why the ropes that were used in hispanic galleon ships were called Manila Hemp, and the name stuck until today. The strong fibers of abaca made it an important crop especially in Bicol. Unfortunately, the abaca trees in bicol were struck by a disease long ago that prompted the government to plant abaca in other parts of the Philippines in order to save the industry. What I learned recently is that the Americans even brought (stole?) abaca to Ecuador. Now Ecuador is the second largest abaca producer in the world, and a competitior of the Philippines. Its really a sad story but I'll dwell on it in my future post (I'm doing a photo-shoot of fibers and fiber production in the country and will post it once its completed).

Now back to Bicol handicrafts. Since abaca is still a dominant industry in the region, though not propagated as a crop same as the pili tree, people here have mastered the skill in producing fiber and weaving it into various handicrafts. The tedious process of scraping the fiber out of the leaves, drying, spinning it into threads, and weaving it into mats, baskets and bags takes more than two weeks where labor is very much intensive. From the leaves to the baskets, these products are not easy to make. For a cheap price of P10-30 for mats, well I should say that its too small for the effort these people put into it.

There are a variety of products that one can buy made of abaca and other local materials. I took this picture of a stall while Mel is busy on the other side. There were mats, hats, baskets and bags of different types. The weavers and handicraft producers here have evolved from doing only plain abaca baskets and bags. Now, modern graphic designs can be seen in their products.

These bags are being promoted by Legazpi as the new eco-bags. Its made of abaca twines and can be used as shopping bags in replacement for the plastic ones. Legaspi is very much known for its abaca bags, from these eco-bags to the more sophisticated cocktail purses.

These mats are the new attractions. They called it flower mats and can be used as displays or as table runners.

These are abaca balls, popular during christmas season but can also be an all-year round decoration. They are made of abaca twines weaved into a ball. This is a product of Pilar, Sorsogon.

These are among the popular hats around. Its a combination of abaca and the "banig" or barn leaves. Its pretty modern and can match your color anytime.

The third most important product where Bikol is known for is the "siling labuyo". Well, these aint the real stuff but the people here honored the lowly siling labuyo by turning them into the ultimate bikol souvenir! Bikol is known for its typical hot dishes, laced with super hot chilis of this type and boiled in coconut milk until its dry and oily. Coconut produces oil that is healthy, consisting of short to medium chain fatty acids that are readily burned into energy and not deposited in the veins as fats (This is why coconut oil is different from other vegetable oils and much healthier) Wait, I'll go back to chilis. It is only in the bicol region where hot dishes are an everyday fare, sumptuous dishes that can rival the Thai, Indian and Mexican for the most spicy foods contest! When in bicol, give the bicol express a try...or even the chili ice cream! Ha! I tried it and I survived! felt like a medal of honor.

The Cagsawa Ruins is indeed a worthy stop in our journey. But, who would go home without a picture of the beautiful Mayon? That completed our journey to Bicol this summer. Well, I promised to be back because Bikol still has so much to offer. Secret is, I'm from here and I'm one proud Bikolana!

Well, so long Mayon, see you around, take care and remain defiant against the typhoons and monsoons...and as my friend puts it, best wishes from one goddess to another!

Donsol: Off the Coast of Sorsogon for a Glimpse of the Bashful Butanding

2011-04-11T20:24:00.000-07:00

At the tip most part of Luzon you can find one of mother nature’s splendid creations, the docile whalesharks. Sorsogon is the gate in the south welcoming visitors from the central and southern Philippines and has long been host to one of the highest concentration of whalesharks in the world. Though whalesharks can also be found in other parts of the country such as in Negros and off the coast of Batangas, it is in Sorsogon where these gentle creatures are protected dearly by the locals turning them into the centrepiece of their thriving tourism industry! The whalesharks indeed became so popular and phenomenal that swimming with the whale sharks was featured in Time Magazine in 2004 as the Best Animal Encounter in Asia.

I really can’t swim, but passing up an opportunity to see the whalesharks in whale-son and in its peak season is just too…..unforgivable (this site is PG13 you see). So my friends and I packed our swimming gears and went downside to Donsol. The whalesharks were reported to be seen not only in Donsol, Sorsogon but also in the towns of Pilar, Castilla and Magallanes. Nevertheless, Donsol seems to be the favourite waters of the whalesharks or the “butanding” as they are called locally that the Department of Tourism declared this area an official sanctuary of the whalesharks. Whalewatching season is from November to May, but the peak is from February and onwards to summer when the butandings can be seen in groups...or so i heard.

Sorsogon...the beautiful waters of Sorsogon. Can't blame the butandings for liking it here. I can live here too! (sheesh! i'll cut you off before you can even spell whale!...now back to PG13).

Travelling to Sorsogon from Manila by land can be rough, even if it’s riding in your own car. But the Bicol region has long improved its accessability, both by land and by air. Flights to Legazpi, Albay from Manila can cut your travel time by at least 10 hours (!!) and you only have to take vans going to donsol, 3 hours tops. Buses from Manila plying the routes of Naga or Legazpi offer really comfortable options such as the lazy-boy seats or the sleeper-type bus. The price of P800+ (lazy-boy) to P1000 (for sleepers) are really reasonable considering it’s an 8-10-hour land travel minus the bone aches and the sleepless night. Just ask for it at the Peñafrancia or the Isarog Lines terminal in Cubao at the back of Ali Mall. Make a reservation early especially if its peak season. There are also busses going straight to Sorsogon…but I haven’t tried that one yet. Well, if you’re budget spells like b-u-s then there really is no problem. Vans going to Sorsogon can be found at the bus terminals in Naga and Legazpi. Well, you can always swim you know....just stay away from the ro-ros and ferrys.....

Donsol already has a number of resorts lying along the coast that caters to travellers. But, you can always find relatively cheap homestays (homes which offer accommodations to travellers by offering one or two of their rooms for a price). I heard there is also a hotel in the city, but I prefer the homestays since it do give visitors a homey feel, not to mention that it’s the cheaper alternative. Food is also not a problem, there are a few small restaurants in town, but the resorts have bigger restaurants and even fastfoods…I remember there is a Binalot stall near the Tourism office. You can get around pretty much by hiring a tryke.

Head out to Sea early! Be up early in the morning since the butandings are early risers. Chances of seeing the whalesharks are high according to the spotters only at early mornings to mid day. that's why there are less boats that are traversing this trip in the afternoons, plus there is always the threat of rain in this era of climate change. So, just head to the beach earlier at 6 am.

You're first stop should always be at the Donsol Tourism Office. Its located at the beach. Registration is a must! and its good since the boaters are ensured to be paid equally and that prices are set at a standard (so no more haggling)...uhmm i cant remember if its P1,500 per boat but each boat shall allow only 6 passengers plus the Butanding Interaction Officer or the BIO, the spotter and the captain. If you are in excess of 6, then you can always ask the next boat if they are missing one or two passengers. Another rule is that only one boat is allowed per butanding, though this one rule is obviously quite hard to adhere to judging from the number of visitors they get in just a day during peak season. You will be paying for the whole boat and the lifevest. Snorkeling equipment are also available for a fee. There really is no need to pay extra to the crew, but since we are just happy for all their help and their genuine concern for making our trip a memorable one, we were really happy paying them extra! especially our BIO, well....we are quite a handful! and i can tell he got tired just from keeping our overflowing excitement in check! haha...

The BIO was obviously the team captain, he shall swim with you towards the whaleshark. I was looking for a nice picture of our BIO which we called machete at the time. Well, he really have hard muscles and a deep, dark tan obviously a trained swimmer. Well, I guess that's comforting since we are out at sea! but what strikes us the most are the spotters. They stand upright at the top of the boat where a mast would have been roped to. There they wait, standing straight....just pray they have good eyes or you're going home tearful....Not everyone is lucky to see a whaleshark even if its peak season. Its a gamble and its explained in the orientation. Well really, you cannot blame these guys if you're really unlucky to see one. You can see they try so hard.

We can see four or five boats and we waved at them, hoping all of us would be blessed by just a mere sight of the wonderful butanding. The BIO explained that sometimes the whalesharks travel in groups especially in peak season, but still...no guarantees as these are very shy animals.

The BIO would also explain how to spot a butanding. They are actually very knowledgeable. I commend the tourism office for training these people. Its good to have very eloquent people on board. The information they shared adds to the wonderful experience.

Then we wait.....its okay to wait you see, rather than go around in cirlces pursuing animals like in a hunt. Yes, a hunt. When you see excited tourists in motored boats pursuing a pack of dolphins just to get a view, its nice...dont get me wrong coz I've been to one of them. But then again its a sad experience when you see more than twenty boats running a race just to get a closer view of these animals, sometimes blocking their paths...not to mention the effect of the roar of a pack of motor boats on animals whose means of communication is based on sound! the dolphins are not showing off, they are not even swimming...they are running away! is it cruel to be a tourist? not if you're responsible.

Well, I did not get this feeling in Donsol. Hopefully it stays that way. The people here are very protective of these animals, because they know it brings them livelihood. That's a good way to repay them. And besides, the whalesharks are not here to welcome the tourists you know...they're here because of the warm waters and the abundance of plankton and krill in the area at this time of year. Plus, i read in wiki that the wam waters of Sorsogon are also breeding grounds when a baby butanding was caught in Pilar way back in 1998.

Apart from your swimsuits, you can also bring your own gear (mask, snorkel, fins and the works). But if you don’t have one, then they can be rented at the office. Other things you need? Towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, slippers, extra clothes, plastic bags for your bags and valuables, camera….better if you have the waterproof kind. I did feel a little miserable for not bringing one. But I found…well, disposable waterproof cams in the souvenir stores (P700), that is…AFTER the trip, geez! If pictures are very important for you, then I’ll say its worth it! Haizz….

If the whalesharks havent arrived yet, you can have some time to swim...if your BIO lets you. But swimmers are generally allowed under the watchful eye of your officer. They said that scuba diving is not allowed in the area. The reason is that, some of the gears may startle the gentle beast. However, some diving sites are offering diving packages with the butanding. Its the ultimate experience I guess. Well, for non-swimmers llike me, I'll be content watching it from the boat. But definitely a dive would be other-worldly. Maybe the dive sites are in other locations just so the trips are controlled and paced and that the whalesharks are not disturbed.

A whaleshark has been sighted....there they go! dont worry, I'll be here when you come back! look at the muscles of our friend machete...are my friends that heavy? peace! I have to do something on the boat you know!

What draws the crowd in Donsol is the experience of swimming with the whalesharks. Though the butandings can get as large as 15 meters in length, they are gentle animals…docile as described and forever bashful in nature.

If you are not a swimmer but possess a strong heart and a boatful of courage, then you can also enjoy it by just swimming along. The BIO will always be by your side while you swim. you just have to hold the rubber ring....like what my friends did. Look at machete literally pulling all of them to where the whalesharks were spotted. Now you know why we paid him extra! chuckle! chuckle!

THERE! the butanding! can you see it???? Its there...right on the water! uhmmm.....just look at it a little closely and you'll see! OMG...its so spectacular!!! what? you cant see it?

I changed the color a little so you can see the whaleshark's shadow. There! can you see it now! right in the middle! ha! Even if its only a shadow, we were screaming on the boat! its so exciting to see butanding! what a sight....shadow i mean...

Yey! my friends are getting close to butanding! hurrah! hurrah! why did i not bring a waterproof cam?!?! arggh!

And the whale swam away...for just a fleeting moment, the swimmers were awed! captivated at the size of it, thanking mother nature for the chance...a chance to see one of God's grand creations. That moment was enough to put smiles on all our faces, blood racing in our veins....and our throats sore from screaming! ahh! purely spectacular...divine even...

But there are rules for interacting with the Butanding. Its just right, so the whaleshark will not be threatened by so many tourists everyday during their feeding and birthing season. In order to make the interaction possible where both parties are awed...or at least one is and the other is happy munching, then rules should be strictly followed. At the Tourism Office, you can find them posted on the wall, and your BIO will also ensure that you remember them. Remember the whalesharks are only here in our waters at certain periods of the year? well, you see they are known to migrate to different seas at different seasons of the year. For the summer, they like it here....I mean, at Donsol. so let's keep it that way....

Well, according to the Donsol Tourism Office the rules are:

Do not touch or ride the whaleshark
Do not restrict the movement of the whaleshark or impede its natural path
Maintain a distance of 3 meters from its head or body and 4 meters from the tail
Do not use flash photography
Do not use SCUBA gear, scooters of jet skis or any other motorized jet propulsion machines
A maximum of 6 swimmers per whale is allowed and 1 boat per whaleshark

Uh-Oh...so many boats....

This experience is all about the butanding, Rhincodus typon in scientific terms. The whaleshark, which is not really a whale but a shark…a gentle, bashful shark, who feeds on plankton and krill, which we have so many. They are documented to be even friendly, allowing humans to swim, play and touch them. The whalesharks are known to inhabit the tropical and warm-seas. So they are really not unique in our waters. They are also seen in places such as the Maldives, Bay Islands in the Honduras, Thailand, Ningaloo Reef in Australia, Christmas Island, etcetera which means a lot more places. There must be a reason why they go back in our waters consistently every year. We don’t really know, but as I’ve said, let’s keep it that way.

Yet we can be proud, because the Phillippines is one of the countries who first actively protected these wonderful whalesharks. The whale shark has become the target of commercial fishing where they seasonally congregate. The population is still unknown according to wiki and the species is considered vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. In 1998, the Philippines banned all fishing, selling, importing and exporting of whale sharks for commercial purposes, followed by India in 2001 and Taiwan in 2007. They are listed as vulnerable and continued to be hunted in parts of Asia, but at least countries have started to realize the importance of preserving these animals. Though the Philippines is still listed as one of the countries that STILL hunt these creatures, but then again…the people of Donsol, Sorsogon, the agencies of government are working together to make the wonderful butandings feel safe and at home in our abundant waters.

Well, the Butanding adventure definitely is the quintessential outdoor experience…the ultimate Nat Geo-like or something! Every outdoors-man or girl should reserve a day or two to go downward to Donsol and get a taste of what’s it like. Well. I did…even if I purposely tied myself to the boat, I promised myself I will go out there and touch these lovable butandings! Wooh!

Davao Cacao: Your Next Bite of M&M's Chocolates Might Just Come from Davao

2011-03-30T02:53:00.000-07:00

Chocolate has long been known as the anecdotal “Drink of the Gods”. Long, long before the Spaniards ventured out to sea, the Aztecs of South America have already enjoyed this drink regarded as sacred that only the chieftains could afford it. Christopher Columbus discovered it from the Aztecs in the 15th century and brought it back to the new world, and that was the start of the world’s love affair with chocolate.

Until the 16th century, the bitter dark aromatic drink remains undiscovered beyond the Aztecs and Mayan civilizations until it was brought by Columbus to show Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain. Though it became a court favorite, it was the Spanish friars who introduced the wonders of the chocolate beans to the rest of Europe. It was served as beverage, but the Europeans added sugar and milk to neutralize the cocoa's natural bitterness and removed the chili pepper, replacing it with vanilla, another indigenous Mexican spice (wikipedia).

For hundreds of years, the chocolate making process remained unchanged. In the 18th century, mechanical mills were created that squeezed out cocoa butter, which helped create hard, durable chocolate. However, it was not until the arrival of the Industrial Revolution that these mills were put to bigger use. This was when people around the world began experiencing and consuming chocolates.

Now, how did the big names in chocolates – Hersheys, Van houten, Cadbury, Nestle, Lindt and eventually Mars – came to be? Well, at the end of the 18th century, the first form of solid chocolate was invented in Turin by Doret. This chocolate was sold in large quantities from 1826 by Pierre Paul Caffarel. In 1819, F. L. Cailler opened the first Swiss chocolate factory. In 1828, Dutchman Coenraad Johannes van Houten patented a method for extracting the fat from cocoa beans and making powdered cocoa and cocoa butter. Van Houten also developed the "so-called" Dutch process of treating chocolate with alkali to remove the bitter taste. This made it possible to form the modern chocolate bar. It is believed that the Englishman Joseph Fry made the first chocolate for eating in 1847, followed in 1849 by the Cadbury brothers. Daniel Peter, a Swiss candle maker, joined his father-in-law's chocolate business. In 1867, he began experimenting with milk as an ingredient. He brought his new product, milk chocolate, to market in 1875. He was assisted in removing the water content from the milk to prevent mildewing by a neighbour, a baby food manufacturer named Henri Nestlé. Rodolphe Lindt invented the process called conching, which involves heating and grinding the chocolate solids very finely to ensure that the liquid is evenly blended. This enabled Milton Hershey to make chocolate even more popular by mass producing affordable chocolate bars. Hmmm....thanks to wiki for this info.

The Mars Company came later in the United States in 1911. The Mars Candy Factory was started by Frank C. Mars. He was taught by his mother how to make hand-dipped candies. Forrest Mars, son of Frank Mars and his first wife named Ethel, was inspired by a popular type of milkshake in 1923 and introduced the Milky Way bar, advertised as a "chocolate Malted Milk in a candy bar". This became the best-selling candy bar. It was incorporated as Mars, Inc. in 1920 and the company grew to be one of the biggest consolidated confectionary companies in the world.

The company produces world favorites such as M&M's, Snickers, and the Mars bar. Its other confections include 3 Musketeers, Dove, Milky Way, Skittles, Twix, and Starburst candy; Combos and Kudos snacks; Uncle Ben's rice; and pet food under the names Pedigree, Sheba, and Whiskas. It also owns the world's largest chewing gum maker, the Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company. The Mars family (including siblings and retired company CEO Forrest Mars Jr., Chairman John Franklyn Mars, and VP Jacqueline Badger Mars) owns a highly secretive firm, making the family one of the richest in the US.

Now what does Mars and chocolates have to do with us? Well, let’s go back again in history. With the spread of the popularity of the chocolate royal drink, the French established cacao plantations in the Caribbean, and Spain developed theirs in their Philippine Colony (Bloom 1998, Coe 1996). The cacao plant was brought by a Spanish mariner named Pedro Bravo de Lagunas sometime in 1670. The first plantings were done in San Jose, Batangas. The country was the first in Asia to plant cacao and prepare chocolate drinks from cocoa beans. Commercial cacao farms were established by a group of Filipino investors. More cacao commercial farms were put up in Mindanao (Food and Agri-Business Monitor, 2010). Cacao plantations continued to exist in the country, though smaller now than in the Spanish times. A cup of hot, bubbling, smooth chocolate starts with the lowly tablea. Right up to the 70’s, and sporadically during the modern times, the processing of tablea were all done by hand. Grinding the dark brown beans and shaped into discs which leave it characteristically coarse but full of aroma. With problems hampering agriculture especially the cacao plantations during the Agrarian era in the 90’s, the local cacao industry did not flourish and tablea making was one of the first casualties of industrialization perhaps not only in the Philippines but probably the same with the rest of the world.

Now, somebody literally came to the rescue. Mars, Inc. tapped Davao Region farmers for the supply of up to 100,000 metric tons of cacao for the next five years. Mars has been doing business directly with farmers in different continents and came to Davao with a business proposition. Since no single cacao plantation has the capacity to supply cacao of the magnitude required by Mars, Inc., Ms. Charita Puentespina has been asked to consolidate the cacao harvests of the farmers within Davao City (Balita, 2010).

Ms. Puentespina’s name has been synonymous with cutflowers ever since she mass-produced the orchid waling-waling (scientific name: Vanda sanderiana) in 1985 through embryo culture. When she passed on the management of her orchid business to her children, she started her own love affair with cacao. Since then, Puentespina became the biggest consolidator of all wet beans produced by farmers within a 25-kilometer radius from the Puentespina farm in Malagos, where a total of 17 hectares of the Puentespina Farm is planted to cacao. The Farm established fermentation and drying facilities to produce good quality beans. Cacao is also sourced from satellite cacao farms in Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley and Sto. Tomas in Davao del Norte (Balita, 2010). She established the Mars Cocoa Development Center to serve as a hub for cacao farmers in Davao City.

The scientific name of the cacao tree, where chocolate is made from is Theobroma cacao. Theobroma means "food of the gods". The word cacao was derived from the Aztec word cacahuatl, learned at the time when it was first encountered by the Spanish in South America, but later on adopted into the spanish language. The word cacao entered scientific nomenclature in 1753 after the Swedish naturalist Linnaeus published his taxonomic binomial system and coined the genus and species Theobroma cacao (wikipilipinas)

Cacao grows on relatively higher ground, to an elevation of 1,000 meters above sea level usually in between other trees where it is shaded for optimal growth. It thrives best in areas where there is an evenly distributed rainfall throughout the year. Upon reaching maturity, the cacao pods sprout from its trunk and branches. Embedded inside the pods are layers of 20-60 cacao beans (Food and Agri-Business Monitor, 2010).

Davao remained the highest producing province in the country. In Davao, the major cacao-producing provinces were Davao del Sur (1,669 tons), Davao City (832 tons), Davao Oriental (481 tons), Bukidnon (455 tons), and Davao del Norte (319 tons) (Food and Agri-Business Monitor, 2010).

However, comparing our progress among our neighbors in the Asian region, the Philippines have the smallest production of cacao beans at 5,000 metric tons of cacao beans in 2010. Its highest production was in 1980 with 20,000 tons and 1990 with 35,000 tons, declining over the years as farmers abandoned cacao farming for more profitable crops (Sun Star Davao, 2011). Embedded inside the pods are layers of 20-60 cacao beans.

The Mars Cacao Development Center in Malagos aims to change the fate of Davao cacao farmers. The Center has hosted no less than 4,000 farmers who have received free training on the proper growing, rehabilitation and post-harvest of cacao trees. Once the cacao farms are rehabilitated, they will yield a very good harvest. Mars, Inc. needs 100 metric tons of cacao beans in the next five years valued at 300 million dollars. This is good news for farmers since Mars, Inc. has increased the price of cocoa to P110 per kilo. According to a news article, Mars buys the dried cocoa beans from the Davao farmers without exclusivity. The farmers sell via international commodity trading (Balita, 2010).

Inside the Center, fermentation and drying facilities were established to further control quality of the wet beans produced by the farmers. It is in the fermentation that the flavor and aroma profile of the chocolate is developed, not only in the variety.

The beans are dried in specially-constructed tent-like structures. The beans are turned twice a day for consistent drying. When the beans achieve the right color and texture, it is ready for sorting and packing.

Producing well-fermented and dried beans, well...are no easy task. Fermentation takes about 5-7 days for the full flavor of the beans to develop. Drying takes about a week or 10 days. Lucky for Mindanao, sunny days are an everyday fare. Oh! I hope Ms. Climate Change won't come down hard on these farmers. Well, at any rate....

For beans that have not yet reached its optimum dryness or have achieved the minimum moisture content required by Mars, then it is returned to the drying area. Though the structures depended mainly on the sun for heat, it is well ventilated to control humidity.

The last step in the Center is the sorting stage. The beans are packed in jute sacks. Jute, they say, allow air to pass inside which helps in keeping the seeds dry. Plastic sacks are not allowed since residual moisture are trapped inside causing molds to grow on the beans.

The Center is open for visitors willing to learn how cacao beans are processed. The Center advocates support for Cacao growers in the region, that's why the Center is open to educate people. Locating it inside the Malagos Garden Resort is also a plus since visitors can enjoy the green and fresh environment of Davao. The farm is big enough to house the facility, but you can still go around by foot. No need for big trucks like these to go around! well, it’s just me!

My visit at the Center definitely enriches my appreciation for our local products. Now, next time you bite into a Mars chocolate, think of it as helping also our brothers in Davao. Let's support Davao's bid to become known as the producers of a special kind "Davao" dark chocolate through their specially fermented and dried beans....go Davao Cacao!