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Bataan and Subic Philippines

2012-08-07T07:27:00.003-07:00

Coron Palawan

2012-08-07T06:48:00.001-07:00

Coron Palawan is a must-visit place in the Philippines. It's a haven for divers all over the world with its famous World War II underwater shipwrecks surrounded with magnificent coral reefs making it as one of the best dive spots in the world. For beach bum who wants to get their sun kissed tan, the powder white sand beaches of Coron Islandis something you cannot resist. Its crystal blue water is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, diving and deep-sea fishing.

Coron is the largest town in the island of Busuanga in the province of Palawan, Philippines. It covers part of Busuanga Island including all the nearby Coron Island. The municipality has a population of 40,007 people according to the 2007 census. Fishing and tourism, being a popular diving spot, are the main means of living. To get around, tricycles are everywhere downtown and there are also motorcycles available for rent. If you're looking for something to eat then head to Coron Market, Market Pier and numerous bake shops around town. You can either travel by plane into Busuanga from Manila and Cebu through domestic airlines or travel by ferry to get to Coron.

A Must-See
There are many attractions you can discover in Coron Island alone. It is a black limestone island with exhilarating cliffs cascading down to thirteen grandiose lakes (only two open to public), sugary white sand coral beaches and is home to an indigenous tribe. It is known for Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoon, Banol Beach, and numerous snorkeling areas where you can see underwater rock formations.

Barracuda Lake has amazing underwater rock formations. Kayangan lake has the most photographed view in Palawan and considered as the cleanest lake in the country. Both places are stunning and good for snorkeling. A cross on Mt.Tapyas above the town is worth a climb up to see the majestic view of the small islands below. Noticeable from the water is a CORON sign on a hill overlooking the town mimicking the well-known Hollywood sign. The Kingfisher Park offers kayaking tours into the abundant natural mangroves.

A Must-Do

Island hopping
Enjoy Coron Island and the neighboring islands it covers; Siete Pecados, Culion Island, CYC Island, Sangat Island, Malcapuya Island , Banana Island , and Black Island.
Diving

Being listed as one of the top scuba diving site in the world in many travel magazines, diving the renowned sunken shipwrecks is something you should not miss.
Snorkeling

Barracuda Lake, Kayangan Lake, Skeleton Wreck are among the most visited snorkeling areas.
Other activities
Mangrove kayak tours, trekking Mt Lunes Santo with bamboo cooked lunch, and starry night mangrove firefly/plankton cruises are offered in Kingfisher Park.
Take a dip in Maquinit Hot Spring, a beautiful place to hang out in the evening after a long day of activities.
The Mt. Tapyas hike is reportedly is a 700+-step stairs to the top, the entrance is found at the side of community basketball court. Experience a breathtaking view of the sunset, recommended to start setting out at 4pm.

Coron Island Palawan surely lives up to a traveler’s fantasy being a picturesque paradise with a wide array of activities you can indulge. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, comfortable clothes, swimming or scuba gear, camera and spare cash. Either you want to have an organized and convenient trip or you just don’t want to miss on anything, you can check out some Coron Palawan packages.

Maskara Festival The City of smile Bacolod city

2012-08-07T02:11:00.001-07:00

What started as "just a new activity" to spice up an otherwise routine civic-military parade, awarding ceremonies and a literary-musical program for a city charter anniversary, Bacolod City's MassKara Festival is now 3 years short of its third decade and has already become of the entries of the Philippines to the global tourism community.

The MassKara Festival of Bacolod City has repeatedly represented the country in some major festivals in Asia, notably in the Chinggay Festival in Singapore in 1998, the Lunar Festival of Hong Kong in 2001, in the International Tourism Festival of Shanghai in 2004 and in the Midosuji Festival Parade of Osaka, Japan, emerging as champion in the foreign category and first runner-up in the local category - the first award to be given to a foreign participant in the 10-year history of that Japanese festival.

Among the Philippine festivals, MassKara is one that has also been to almost all major festivals in the Visayas and Luzon. mostly on exhibition performances. During the 23rd Asian Games held in Bacolod City in November 2005, the MassKara dance got the most applause from the athletes, visiting dignitaries and the international press covering the event.

The word MassKara has a double meaning. First, it is a fusion of the English word "mass" or many and "kara", the Spanish word for "face." MassKara then becomes a "mass of faces," and these faces have to be smiling to project Bacolod already known in the late 70's as the City of Smiles. MassKara also is the dialect "maskara" for the English word mask, which gives rise to the use of giant smiling masks in varied hues, colors and brilliance which the gaily costumed dancers wear as they stomp, swing, pulsate and gyrate in the major streets of the city every third weeded nearest to the 19th of October, which is the City Charter Anniversary of Bacolod.

The concept of combining the English word "mass" and the Spanish word "kara" is a mind product of the then Art Association of Bacolod president, the late Ely Santiago, with the support of the late city councilor chairman of the committee councilor on tourism, Romeo Geocadin and the then Negros Occidental Department of Tourism head and now city mayor of Bacolod, Atty. Evelio R. Leonardia, the concept has become a reality, with the city having her first MassKara Festival in 1981.

After two or three years, the MassKara would have died a natural death. But thanks to the tenacity of an Evelio R.Leonardia to lobby at the city council and to initiate the movement among tourism stakeholders, the festival moved on, year after year, despite political economic, natural or man-made impediments. Now, after 28 years, it has not only attained its recognized festival stature- as a national ANVIL awardee of the Philippine Public Relation Society - but also as one major tourism identity for Bacolod City.

Through the years, MassKara has evolved and has undergone a lot of changes from its attempt during its start in 1980 to be historical by portraying vignettes of Philippine history, to the time when it has become a symbol of survival, when the sugar industry as the lifeblood of the Bacoleños continued to plummet down.

The long years of affluence and abundance brought about by the sugar industry, with Bacolod as its center of trade and commerce, has made the Bacoleño a lover of the good life. He knows how to laugh heartily while his fine taste is seen in his cuisine, in dressing, the sports he indulges in and the kind of car his bulging pocket chooses. But beneath all these, he is also resilient because he knows how to take things in stride in times of crisis. He can still smile as sincerely as during the times of plenty. Decades after the backlash of the sugar industry, Bacolod now no longer depends on this cash crop and the Bacoleño still celebrates life along the mainstream of contemporary events, industry and technology.

The MassKara Festival is here to stay, an icon for Bacolod as the City of Smiles. Today, with the more than four hundred fifty thousand Bacoleños giving their warmest smiles, MassKara becomes a festival of a thousand smiles per minute, projecting the Bacoleño's ability to smile, to be gregarious and charming and to shoe his instinct to survive and triumph over trials and challenges. MassKara is not history nor is it anchored on any historical, religious or cultural event. Artistic, yes. MassKara is simply his story, that is the Bacoleño as a human being whose innate capacity for goodness, happiness and beauty is expressed in the sights, sounds, color and rhythm of a people celebrating the might and bounty of a Great Creator.

the Photographer eheheheeh di pahuli sa posing

The Ruins Mansion Bacolod City

2012-08-07T01:52:00.001-07:00

Wealthy sugar baron Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson built the mansion in 1900′s for Maria Braga, his portuguese wife. He made sure that the mansion was furnished with imported luxurious items. The Mansion’s structure resembles that of the italian architecture with neoclassical columns. The facades of the mansion is comparable to the ones in Carnegie Hall. The belvedere facing west enables one to view the beautiful sunset through the bay window.The garden of the mansion was tended by Don Mariano’s daughter Angelina. Imported lilies filled the garden and around the fountain. A japanese gardener was hired to maintain the gardens until he disappeared just before the war. It was found out later on that the gardener they hired was an informant to the Japanese Military. When the world war 2 broke out, the guerillas burned down the mansion to prevent the Japanese from occupying the area. The mansion burned down leaving behind the concrete structure that still stands to this day.There’s no current plans of getting the ruins restored back to its glorious form. For now there’s a mini cafe and restaurant to chill inside the ruins. Guests can amuse themselves with a quick game of golf in the mini golf area. (http://ilonggos.net/the-ruins-of-talisay-negros-occidental)We personally take the chance of experiencing the beauty of the Ruins located at the Boundary of Bacolod and Talisay. From the city proper we take a drive to tagbak terminal and ride a tricycle to the Ruins. It was so beautiful especially at dawn. It changes color from white to gray to orange and to red. The structural design of it was so elegant and the concrete used is Grade A that causes it to firmly stands fire, earthquake and typhoons. It was soperfect for photograpy especially weddings and pre-nups. That’s why we took the chances of possing to its pillars even though wearing rugged outback clothes and in sweaty shirts. While waiting on the sunset, we had a merienda on the Ruins Café located at the side of the Ruins. It is a souvenir shop/café, pizzas and coffees at reasonable prices. After a great afternoon in the ruins, a tricycle back to the terminal will help you get back in the city

its nice to go there during night but its very difficult unless u have your own ride. this place located inside the sugarcane plantation. please expect that the road is not fully concrete.

PENINSULA DE ZAMBOANGA

2012-08-07T01:21:00.006-07:00

Seven hundred kilometers away from Manila, Zamboanga city sits on the southernmost part of the Zamboanga peninsula. It is so far away that my friends from Manila would always comment that it’s like going to a different country already. In fact Zamboanga city is closer to Malaysia and Indonesia than it is to Manila. The distance however should not discourage would-be travelers to Zamboanga city. The long flight or ferry ride is definitely worth every penny once you get to Zamboanga Hermosa.

To the older generations, Zamboanga city brings into mind the tree house in Pasonanca park (a natural park dubbed as the little Baguio of Zamboanga city because of its altitude and varying flora), the pink sand beach of Santa Cruz Island (one of only a few in the world), the sumptuous yet very affordable sea foods, Chabacano (which is the only Spanish Creole in Asia) and the mestizas. To the young ones though, Zamboanga city only brings terrorism into mind.

But while the mestizas are now only a part of the Alta Sociedad (since most of them have already migrated to different parts of the country and the world) and the Pasonanca Park is not as quaint and romantic as it used to be, Zamboanga city definitely still has a lot to offer. Named as Asia’s Latin city, one can definitely find traces of our colonial history in this city. From its airport, cuisine, edifices, customs, to its language, the extranjero would definitely feel as if he has traveled to the past.
The gateway to Asia’s Latin city is the Zamboanga international airport. This structure, although built for its obvious purpose has become a favorite among architecture enthusiasts. The unique design that the airport employs gives you a window to this city’s Islamic heritage.

In the city center, one can find more architectural wonders. The city center is reachable by a tricycle or a jeepney (NO TAXIS). A tricycle ride would cost anywhere from 30 pesos to 50 pesos depending where you came from. A good thing to remember is that all jeepneys in Zamboanga city go to the city center and fare costs anywhere from 7 pesos to 10 pesos. The Zamboanga city hall is the heart of the city center. Zamboanga’s city hall is unlike any ordinary city hall. It is an edifice constructed by the Americans during the early 1900s. The building’s turn of the century architecture is one that is generally favored by the American colonial governments for its tropical colonies. Just besides the city hall is the Plaza Pershing which has a hanging garden on its entrance. It is one of the earliest structures made of cement in Mindanao. The stretch of pavement from the city hall going to the Fort Pilar shrine is dotted with old houses and government offices resembling Calle Crisologo in Vigan. Founded in 1635, the Fort Pilar shrine was a Spanish garrison. Inside its walls is a museum which houses numerous paintings, ethnic costumes, marine life exhibits, indigenous tribes’ memorabilia, and some artifacts from a sunken galleon.

Just a stone’s throw away from the shrine is the newly opened Paseo del Mar. The Paseo Del Mar resembles the bay walk along Manila bay offering locals a respite from the demands of everyday life. This spot is frequented by Zamboangueños at night because the sun can be a bit harsh in the mornings. I would suggest that you visit the Paseo del Mar on mid afternoons so that you can appreciate the vistas of nearby islands such as Basilan and Santa Cruz. Not to be missed as well is the famous Zamboanga sunset which can rival that of Manila Bay’s. As the park is still a bit new (it was opened during the third quarter of 2009), it may get crowded especially during weekends.

After all that sightseeing you might want to head to Pasonanca Park. Adorned with trees, flowers, shrubs, orchids, ferns, and a river, this park is truly unique. In the middle of it all is a tree house which was so famous in the 60s and 70s that when you mention the word tree house, Zamboanga city comes into mind immediately. Today though the quaint and cosy feel that the park used to have is gone. The small park has now been transformed to a huge park complex with three natural swimming pools (its water comes from the mountains), a flower garden, an aviary, and a butterfly farm. The surrounding area is known for its great dining and entertainment. The park, even transformed into something very modern and contemporary is still worth checking out though. Allot a full day in Pasonanca Park as it is a huge place. You might also want to pack food because there are not a lot of food stalls inside. The park is around 5 kilometres from the city proper. Tricycle fare would generally cost around 30 to 40 pesos and a jeepney ride would generally be at 7 pesos.

Twenty five minutes away from the city center is the virgin Santa Cruz Islands, probably the biggest chance of Zamboanga city to tap into the mainstream tourism industry. Developing it however has been costly and a logistical nightmare as it is off the Zamboanga peninsula. The greater Santa Cruz Island boats of a pink sand beach and a sand bar. Yes you heard it right, pink sand. While the smaller Santa Cruz Island is a white sand beach which is a great diving spot. Do not expect hotels, restaurants, and resorts in this place though, the islands are practically deserted. The only way to get there is by using a boat which would cost 100 pesos (round trip). Pick up and drop off point is the Lantaka hotel.

There are numerous beach resorts located in mainland Zamboanga city though as the city‘s borders are virtually shorelines. I however would not recommend them because most are rocky and too commercial.

There is a place in Zamboanga called ‘barter’ because there used to be a lot of barter activity in this area. The system was started by the great Ferdinand Marcos in a bid to appease the Moro rebels. Tax free products were exchanged between Malaysia and the Philippines. In the past, one can find Malaysian made products such as tea, coffee, candies, and malongs at rock bottom prices at the barter. Over time though (as Marcos was ousted), the barter system was ended. Today though, one can still find tax free Malaysian and Indonesian made products at cheap prices. Apparently, the second generation traders still continued the practice of selling products from Malaysia albeit no Philippine made products are ever sold in Malaysia as would have been the case in a barter system. As this place has been a frequent stop among tourists, you can also buy Zamboanga t-shirts and pearls from the barter. Don’t forget that this place is like a tiangge, so remember to haggle, haggle, and haggle!

Another great place to shop is the Yakan weaving center. This village is the home of the Yakan people; an ethnic tribe with special skills in weaving intricately designed traditional cloths on looms. These cloths are usually made into coasters, table covers, wall displays, bags, and purses. The yakan weaving center is about seven kilometers away from the city center and can usually be reached using a tricycle (40 pesos from the city center) or a jeepney (10 pesos from the city center).Note that these cloths are hand-woven, so they are a bit pricey.

WHY NOT GO?
If you are an outdoor person, you might not enjoy Zamboanga city that much. We don’t offer spelunking, mountain climbing, and other outdoor activities. If you are friends traveling, you might find the city a bit boring. The things that Zamboanga can offer (such as shopping, dining, and sightseeing) are more apt for a family traveling.

Regarding peace and order, the city is relatively safe and is not as unsafe as the media portrays it to be. To be totally safe though, I recommend that you stay within the city center. The downtown area is pretty well guarded not only by the police but by the military. So don’t panic when you see military men carrying big guns in the city streets, it’s not a coup d’état.
Just be sure to exercise proper caution as you would when traveling to a foreign city and you should be fine

WHY GO?
For history buffs who want to relive the Philippines’ past, Zamboanga city is paradise. Not only would you get to see Hispanic manifestations in the architecture, but you get to experience it through its unique language, Chabacano. Extranjeros would often comment that hearing natives speak Chabacano makes them feel like they are in Mexico. From the time you get off the plane, stroll in its many parks and plazas, visit its churches, wander along the city streets, and talk to the locals, you would agree that it is truly Asia’s Latin city.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Unlike most of the Philippines which is typhoon prone, the Zamboanga peninsula is typhoon free. Weather should not be factor when planning your trip to this place. The best time to go is during the Zamboanga Hermosa festival. This is the time of year when Zamboanga city is very vibrant and colorful. The festival features pageants, parades, street dances, concerts, a boodle fight (highlighting the city’s brand as the sardines capital of the Philippines), a Chabacano song festival, a regatta (wherein Zamboanga’s traditional outrigger called the Vinta are raced by locals), trade fairs (featuring traveling merchants from different cities in the country) and other fun activities. Just remember that public places are very crowded during the festival because people with relatives in Zamboanga city often choose to reunite with their relatives during this time. The Zamboanga Hermosa festival generally runs from October 1 to Oct 12. It culminates in a solemn activity called the Fiesta Pilar wherein Zamboangueños visit the Fort Pilar shrine to pray.

WHERE TO STAY

There are numerous hotels within the city center. One of the best that I always recommend is the Lantaka by the sea hotel. Aside from enjoying rooms with a majestic view of the ocean, you also get to be within walking distance from the fort pilar shrine, the city hall, and the main downtown area. This vintage hotel offers great facilities such as an al fresco restaurant and a large swimming pool set amidst coconut trees; both overlooking the waters between Zamboanga city and Basilan.

Less than a kilometer away from the airport is the Garden Orchid hotel. This airport hotel is perfect for businessmen. Equipped with a swimming pool, a restaurant, a garden, a lobby bar with live entertainment, and spa services onsite, it offers first rate services at very affordable prices.

WHERE AND WHAT TO DO?

Zamboanga city is a seafood haven. One of the best restaurants in the city, serving the best food in town is the Alavar’s Seafood House. Alavar’s is best known for its very delicious bagoong and Curacha (a type of crustacean that can be found in Zamboanga’s waters. This place can be a bit pricey though and service is a bit slow. While the food is definitely worth the price, there are other restaurants which offer great tasting seafood as well at lower prices. Mano Mano Na Greenfield Restaurant is another great place to dine in. Mano mano means that you use your hands for something, in this case eating. This restaurant is usually packed with locals at any time of the day, and any day of the week. The main reason for this is that this restaurant offers good food at very affordable prices, not to mention good service. Their menu consists of sea foods and mainstream Filipino dishes. The main structure is like an open veranda which allows cool breeze to enter the restaurant. The building is made from bamboo and the roof from nipa which gives it a very traditional atmosphere. Food is served in trays made from bamboo covered in banana leafs.
Hai San Seafood Market and Restaurant is also a good dining option. This is a Chinese restaurant that offers seafood cooked using Chinese recipes. What makes this restaurant unique is the chance for diners to choose from freshly caught fishes. The chefs would then cook it for you. Hai San’s specialties include Curacha cooked in garlic sauce, latu salad (a type of seaweed), lapu lapu, and lobsters.
Now if you want to dine by the sea, I would recommend the outdoor restaurant in the La Vista del Mar beach resort. This restaurant offers dining along the ocean with gentle breeze blowing by.

As Zamboanga city is home to a significant number of Muslims, you can also find cuisine here that was created by Muslim tribes such as the Tausugs. One very famous Tausug dish is the Satti. Satti is actually coagulated rice immersed in a reddish sweet and spicy sauce. You eat it either with grilled chicken or Isaw (intestine).

Alavar’s seafood house is located in the village of Tetuan. Mano Mano Na Greenfield Restaurant meanwhile is in the village of Santa Maria. If you wish to visit the outdoor restaurant at the La Vista Del Mar beach resort, you would need to travel 6 kilometers away from the city center. It is located along the west coast highway. The Hai San restaurant can be found on Ledesma Street (near the city center). These are short stretches of road and relatively small villages and finding these places would not be difficult at all. Also, you don’t have to worry about getting lost as all tricycle drivers would know where these places are by heart.
Now, if you want to taste the Satti as well, just go to the city center and you’ll definitely find a small eatery offering this dish.
Making reservations, though prudent is not necessary. If you wish to contact these restaurants however, your front desk or hotel concierge would definitely have their phone numbers.

MY TO DO LIS

1. Stroll along the city streets, specifically from the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception to the city hall and finally to the Fort Pilar shrine
2. Wade through the crystal clear waters and lie on the pink sand beach of Santa Cruz island
3. Buy some cheap pearl earrings, necklaces, and bracelets
4. Eat great seafood at rock bottom prices
5. Spend a full day at the Pasonanca Park
6. Eat spicy Satti in the morning
7. Buy some imported chocolates from Malaysia and other items at the barter
8. Watch the Yakan people weave using giant looms at the Yakan weaving village and bring home the finish product
9. Try to speak Chabacano with a local
10. Watch the stunning sunset at the Paseo del Mar

GETTING THERE

My preferred mode of transportation to Zamboanga city has always been by a ferry. Just the ferry ride itself can be considered a vacation already. It would be like going on a two day cruise if you’re from Luzon and a one day cruise if you’re from Visayas. What I enjoy most about ferry rides is the chance to see all of the Philippines from a good vantage point. If you ride a super ferry, the ship makes a stopover in metro Cebu which gives you a chance to appreciate the beautiful skyscrapers dotted in front of its mountains and if you ride a Negros navigation, you get to see Bacolod’s and Iloilo’s historic ports. A trip from Luzon to Zamboanga city would usually cost around 1000-1500 pesos and from Visayas to Zamboanga city 500 – 800 pesos. Now if you prefer a quicker ride, take the plane. It shouldn’t take more than an hour and a half. Be prepared to pay around 2500 – 3500 for a plane ticket (from Luzon) though. Both Super ferry and Negros Navigation has voyages to Zamboanga city twice a week (Wednesday and Saturday for Super ferry and Thursday and Sunday for Negros Navigation) while Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines offers morning and afternoon flights to Zamboanga city daily.

Be aware that the seaport is not that organized in Zamboanga city. If you need help with your luggage, approach only those porters with an ID. From the airport or seaport, take the tricycle (again NO TAXIS). A tricycle can fit in approximately four people. Remember to agree on a fare before getting in. Some drivers overcharge simply because you came from the airport or the seaport.

Dumaguete Negros Oriental

2012-08-07T00:14:00.002-07:00

Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental

The Negros Island is one among a total of 7,107 islands comprising the Philippine Archipelago. It was discovered by the Spanish explorers during the expedition of Señor Miguel Lopez de Legaspi in the year 1565. Abundant in natural resources, Negros is home to some 3.7 million peace loving Filipinos who thrive mainly on agriculture and aquaculture as their source of livelihood. In the year 1890, the island was divided into two distinctive provinces, namely Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental.

The province of Negros Oriental occupies the Southeast portion, holding in itself 5 key cities and 20 municipalities, most of which line the coastal shores facing east to the Tañon Strait and south to the Sulu Sea. Because of its ideal location and tropical climate, many have been drawn to the serene beaches and have been known to find themselves building their nests along the Negros shorelines.

The capital of Negros Oriental is Dumaguete City, the seat of government and the province’s economic hub. Though relatively small with a total land area of only 34.26 square kilometers, it is the most populated area in the province. It boasts of an airport and several piers which make Dumaguete City a point of destination for students, businessmen, travelers and tourists alike.

A vast majority of the Dumagueteños are literate and can communicate in English, Tagalog and Ilonggo besides their native Cebuano dialect.

The City of Gentle People

Despite the inevitable changes that the modern civilization has brought about, Dumaguete City remains to be rooted deeply to its historical past. Nearly every significant event that took place in its earliest days is commemorated each year with meticulous attention to details, giving the people an occasion to celebrate and to relive a rich and interesting culture that has shaped their city.

Dumaguete City

Dumaguete got its name from the Visayan word daguit which means to snatch. It has been said that in the olden days, pirates came by the island to take away the pretty native maidens.

At the heart of Dumaguete City stands Silliman University, established in 1901 by American philanthropist Dr. Horace B. Silliman. Much of its old wooden and stone structures still proudly stand including what is now the Silliman Museum, whose rooms were once used by the Japanese forces during World War II.

The City of Gentle People, as this city is aptly labeled, Dumaguete is dotted with cherished remembrances from a bygone era. Old churches and cathedrals, antique houses and memorabilia, the famous Bell Tower, and the occasional kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) plying the city streets add up to the quaint, old world charm that the city exudes – with its friendly and hospitable people who value their simple and laidback lifestyles.

Waig Crystal Spring Resort Maramag bukidnon

2012-08-06T21:34:00.002-07:00

Waig Crystal Spring Resort, Maramag, Bukidnon

Located at the crossroads plateau of the province of Bukidnon, nestled in cool and lush vegetation with a spectacular panoramic view of the rainforest lies a pristine spring, with sparkling and clear waters. This destination will entice the adventurous and the nature lover.

WAIG CRYSTAL is a spring resort that goes beyond your expectation, with its land and water capes. It is a myriad of interesting activities that are filled with adventure within its 3.6 hectares of land area. You can take a ride in their cable cars and feel the rush of your adrenalin on the spiral slides. After the exciting rides you can also cool down into their pool which is chlorine free and is located below the magnificent waterfalls that flows from the natural source.

The restobar caters various cuisines that are inexpensive and will surely fill your cravings. And you can witness the annual celebration of a cultural festivity which is known as “Kahalawan te sebseb” meaning the festival of springs.

The venue is very suitable for gatherings, personal and corporate functions because they have a fully equipped conference halls and a very good accommodation. The memories and surprises will definitely last much than the time you have stayed in WAIG CRYSTAL SPRING Resort.

ROOM RATES:

Deluxe 1,500

Standard 1,000

Barkadahan 2,700

AMENITIES:

Souvenir Shop

Canteen

Convention Hall

Conference Rooms

Basketball Court

Horseback Riding

Standby Generator

Shuttle Bus

Live Band

Ballroom Dancing

Camping Sites

Catering

Kiddie Pool

Boracay

2012-08-06T20:49:00.000-07:00

Geography

Boracay is a tropical island located approximately 315km (200 miles) south of Manila and 2km off the northwest tip of the island of Panay in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. It is one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. The island comprises the barangays of Manoc-Manoc, Balabag, and Yapak (3 of the 17 barangays which make up the municipality of Malay. Boracay Island is located off the northwest corner of the island of Panay, and belongs to the Western Visayas island-group, or Region 6, of the Philippines. The island is approximately seven kilometers long, dog-bone shaped with the narrowest spot being less than one kilometer wide, and has a total land area of 10.32 square kilometers. South-facing Cagban Beach is located across a small strait from the jetty port at Caticlan on Panay island, and the Cagban jetty port serves as Boracay's main entry and exit point during most of the year. When wind and sea conditions dictate, east-facing Tambisaan Beach serves as an alternative entry and exit point.

Boracay's two primary tourism beaches, White Beach and Bulabog Beach, are located on opposite sides of the island's narrow central area. White Beach faces westwards and Bulabog Beach faces eastwards. The island also has several other beaches.

White Beach is the main tourism beach. It is a bit over four kilometers long and is lined with resorts, hotels, lodging houses, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses. In the central portion, for about two kilometers, there is a footpath known as the Beachfront Path separating the beach itself from the establishments located along it. North and south of the Beachfront Path, beachfront establishments do literally front along the beach itself. In past years, Boracay entry and exit was done through three boat stations located along the Beachfront Path, but that practice was discontinued in 2007 in favor of the single-point entry and exit mentioned above. Several roads and paths connect the Beachfront Path with Boracay's Main Road, a vehicular road which runs the length of the island. At the extreme northern end of White Beach, a footpath runs around the headland there and connects White Beach with Diniwid Beach.

Across the island from White Beach is Bulabog Beach, a secondary tourism beach and Boracay's main windsurfing and kiteboarding area.

For Land Use and Management, the island of Boracay is divided into 400 hectares of preserved forestland and 628.96 hectares of agricultural land.

History

Boracay was then called "Land of the Atis" because the first settlers of the island are the Negritos or Atis. The Negritos farmed and fished in Boracay for centuries. During the 1940's and 1950's, the Boracaynons or the people of Boracay, depended largely on fishing and coconut plantation. Copra, the dried meat of coconut, was traded to businessmen from Aklan in exchange for rice and other goods and commodities.

In the 1960's and 1970's, Boracay became popular among families from Panay. When a German writer published a book about the Philippines in 1978, describing Boracay history and the beautiful island in details, the island was introduced to the world. This mark the beginning of tourist "boom" with tourist.

Since then, The onset of tourism changed Boracay completely. As word of its exceptional beauty--specifically the immaculate white sands of White Beach spread, tourists began arriving. Suddenly, from a sleepy, sparsely populated island, Boracay was transformed into a major destination on the international travel circuit. Whether the change was for the better or worse is an open question, but it was certainly a turning point in the history of Boracay Island.

Night out in Boracay | Evening Activities

For such a small island, Boracay offers a number of nightlife option to its visitors. Listening to classical guitarist or pianist while having romantic candle light dinner to jamming with the local bands while dancing on sandy grounds are just a few options. Most of the big resorts and hotels at Boracay offers live entertainment. Starting from the northern end of White Beach and going south, you'll see 24-hour spots and entertainment places. Generally, White Beach is the hospot but you'll find entertainment and music almost every night somewhere on Boracay Island.

Boracay Bars: the many bars on Boracay, and especially those along White Beach, are more than the heart of island nighlife. Most are often not only at night, but in the morning and all day. Some of the most popular bars Cocomangas Shooter Bar, located near Balabag plaza, Fridays Resortnear the northern end of White Beach, Pat Creek Bar, Cafe del Sol, Isla Baila, Mango-Ray Resort and Cocoloco.

On the other side of the island on the beach in Bulabog, there is Banana Saging. this simple bar is a fun place for food and snacks.

Boracay Discos: Pier One formerly known as Beachcomber Disco turns into a Disco after Dinner. Hiphop and techno music are usually played. Popular recording artists from Manila occasionally performs here live. It's mostly a younger crowd around the big bar and the billiard tables or seated in comfortable pillow-chairs. Summer Place, also called the Sex Shooter Bar, is moret han a bar. Its another center of nightlife on the Island, with a Mongolian Grill, a disco and a stage for live band and special events. Club Paraw lies between Pier One and the beachside part of the Cocomangas bar. Mainly young people dance and chat located directly on the beach.

Shows and Live Bands: Fridays Resort is offering etcnic and cultural dance shows every friday night. Live bands perform on weekends at Bom Bom - a popular island-style bar located on the White Beach path. Secxs in the Alice in wonderland resort also have livebands on weekend night.Sulu Star on the other hand offers karaoke and disco with nightly singing and dance contest.

24-Hour Spots - If you're out late and still hungry or thirsty, try Sea Lover's, a charming little Filipino restaurant and the oldest 24-hour place on Boracay. For a salad, a sandwich and another drink, Salad Bar is located at D'Mall and further south down White Beach is Bamboo Beach Resort or Dalisay for that late last drink.

One of the best things in Boracay? Nighlife!

Watersports, Boracay Style!

Scuba Diving
Sign up for an introductory dive and explore the underwater life with fishes at some dive sites for beginners or be an expert diver and dive 130 feet below sea level at Ship Wreck and discover how Pelagics move beneath the sea.

Boat Trips - you can take a boat trip around the island for just sightseeing but its more fun with stopovers at different beaches for drinks, lunch, swimming and snorkelling. Wind condition sometimes makes boating on one or the other side of the island unsafe, but either coast of Boracay has enough beaches and snorkelling areas.

Paraw Sailing - Let the wind take you wherever the wind leads you and sail into the glorious sunset on this unique, double-winged wind driven boat that can only be ultimately enjoyed in Boracay. Paraws, small outrigger sailboats, is ideal for 2 to 6 people and may be rented with or without the two-man crew, depending on your sailing skills. Sailing instruction is also available. Many boatmen along White Beach allowed thier paraws to be rented at per hour basis. Or you can contact the Malay Sailing Boat Owner Association Inc

Snorkeling - Some boatmen provides snorkels and fins once you rented thier boat for island hopping or snorkelling. Snorkels and fins are also available at most hotels, dive shops and at some beaches where either beach operators or restaurants are located.

Skimboarding - For several years now, skimboarding in Boracay has been an entertainment for older people. But for the kids, it is a new watersports. The shallow water of White Beach is the best beach to practice skimboarding. You can rent skimboards at several places along White Beach.

Windsurfing and Kitesurfing - The best beach for windsurfing and kitesurfing is Bulabog beach where equipment rentals, winsurfing and kitesurfing lessons are available. Ocean Republic offers a different packages from 2 hours to 3-days course. Wind and wave conditions are best between December and February during the northern monsoon.

Waterskiing, Banana Boat, Glass Bottom Boat and Parasailing - These activities are all available on the White Beach. As of 2007, waterskiing costs about Php900 for 15 minutes and Jet Skiing about Php1,500 for 30 minutes. The popular banana boat ride costs about Php200 each for a minimum of four people.

There are two glass bottom boats allowing you to see Boracay's underwater world while you stay dry. The smaller boat can accomodate 6 to 8 persons and the trip takes around 1 hour. The bigger boat names We Found It, takes up to 30 persons out for one and a half hours. The best time forParasailing is in the high season during the northeast monsoon where the sea off White Beach is calm at that time.

Banana boat rides, waterskiing, jet skiing and parasailing can be arranged at some resorts or at theBoracay Tourist Center.

Boracay Tourist Center (63)(36)288-3704
Small Glass Bottom Boat (63)(36)288-6269
We Found It (mobile no.) +639184905619

Fishing - Kingfisher's Farm is in a lovely inlet surrounded by mangroves. You can order food and drinks and just watch the many birds and constantly jumping fishes. You can try your luch for fishing those jumping fish (mostly bangus and tilapia). Kingfishers Farm will grill your catch for you. With fishing, a restaurant, and a small store, billiards and table tennis, Kingfisher's is ideal for kids, families and friends.

Travel to Boracay | Tranquility via Land, Air and Sea

By Plane
The most popular means of travelling to boracay in Malay, Aklan is by air via Kalibo. There are regular cheap flights from Manila to Kalibo Airport in Aklan on Panay Island. The flight takes less than one hour, but an additional 90 minutes bus trip to Caticlan Jetty Port is required.

From Kalibo to Caticlan
Southwest Tours, Star Express and 7107 Island Tours ply the route from Kalibo Airport to Caticlanwith air-conditioned buses or coasters. Included in the price is also the boat transfer from Caticlan to one of Boracay's boat stations. Other means of reaching Caticlan are mini-vans, which are a little cheaper, but don't provide boat service to Boracay. The trip takes 1 to 1.5 hours.

Smaller turbo planes fly directly to Caticlan Airport, This is the fastest way and fromCaticlan Airport, only a short tricycle ride to the jetty port.

By Ship
An adventorous but more leisurely and romantic way to travel to Boracay is by Ferry from Manila to Caticlan or Dumaguit, near Kalibo. The trip to Boracay takes about 17 hours.

MBRS Shipping Lines have two boats plying the route from Manila to Caticlan. The ships leave Manila's North Harbor, Pier 8, every Friday, Monday and Wednesday and arrive in Caticlan the next day.

Other shipping companies service the route Manila to Dumaguit, half an hour east from Kalibo. The companies are WG&A and Negros Navigation.

By Land
Caticlan, the entry point for Boracay, can be reached also by private cars or air-conditioned buses, via the 'strong republic nautical highway', stretching from Batangas, Luzon, to Cagayan de Oro. This is probably the cheapest way to go to Boracay. But it takes more time an adventorous spirit. See Travel to Boracay by RORO

Arriving on Boracay - The new Jetty Port at Caticlan

Boracay Island itself is then reached by travelling on motorized bancas (motorized outtrigger boats), which is continously ply the short trail between the island. The boat trip takes 20 to 25 minutes and land at three defined areas, known as Boat Stations 1,2 and 3 along the shoreline of White Beach. If you're going to visit Boracay, it is advisable that you find out in advance which Boat Station is closest to the resort where you are staying. Most travel agency can arranged that for you.

TIP: it is best to wear casual clothes like shorts, T-shirt and slippers for arrival and departure boat trips. You may get wet while crossing the channel between Caticlan and Boracay Island, and usually one has to wade a short distance in shallow water from the boat to the beach.

CAmiguin Island

2012-08-06T19:50:00.001-07:00

Camiguin is an island province of the Philippines located in the Bohol Sea, about ten kilometers off the northern coast of Misamis Oriental in Mindanao. It is the second-smallest province both in population and land area next only to Batanes. The capital of the province is Mambajao and it is a part of the Northern Mindanao region.

Camiguin takes pride in its claim to possess a “complete” natural environment and a complexly diverse ecosystem. It is accessible by air and sea via Cagayan de Oro and once there, it’s really all about exploring the rustic setting, natural wonders, diving and beach-bumming. Today’s list, adapted from www.camiguin.gov.ph, talks about some of the different points of interest in the island province that are worth visiting.

1. Katibawasan Falls – Located five kilometers southeast of Mambajao, this is a beautiful clear stream of water cascading 70 meters into a rock pool surrounded by ground orchids, wild ferns, tress and boulders. Its cold water provides a refreshing summer splash. The more adventurous may want to rappel down the waterfall into the plunge pool below.

2. Tuasan Falls – The approach to the wild and mighty falls entails a very scenic hike passing through the quaint locale of Mainit in Catarman and along the rocky river bed. The surrounding scenery is unspoiled and perfect for a peaceful picnic. The only sounds visitors will hear are those of the tumbling falls and running water.

3. Bura Soda Water Swimming Pool – This pool in Bura, Catarman is said to be the one and only in the country where you can swim in soda water. It has great scenery over the fields and the seas.

4. Esperanza Ardent Hot Spring – In the heart of the island bubbles this mineral pool with water around 40 degreesCelsius. Mist rises from the heated waters that run down the vents of the dormant Hibok-Hibok volcano. The springsare ideal to bathe in at night surrounded by cool mountain air. It is said to have therapeutic effects.

5. Tangub Hot Spring – A volcanic hot spring below the sea bed, the small area is formed by a pool of sea stones and corals and is completely undeveloped. Water temperatures turn from cold to lukewarm, warm and hot as the tide changes. Sit in the water at lowish tide and enjoy the cold sea water as it mixes with the hot spring.

6. Macao Cold Spring – Located in Mahinog, this cold spring is one of Camiguin’s most idyllic. Swimmers could be accompanied by a school of small fishes on occasion. Huge century-old trees surround the pool, keeping it cool and shady.

7. Taguines Lagoon – A man-made lagoon located in Benoni, Mahinog, this serene site is accentuated by limpid waters, craggy cliffs and huge boulders standing like sentinels. It’s an ideal place to hire a boat and go fishing for the day.

8. Old Vulcan – The old volcano drops into the sea and makes a natural road high above the ocean. The place has a sheer drop-off of 80 meters. Rich corals abound in the ocean below. The coral covered molten rocks are surrounded with tropical fishes such as anthias, clown fishes, damsels and others.

9. White Island – Across the sea from Agoho and Yumbing, this uninhabited white sandbar with the picturesque Mt. Hibok-Hibok and Old Volcano as its backdrop is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling and viewing the sunrise and sunset over Camiguin.

10. Mantigue Island – Three kilometers off the coast of Hubangon and San Roque in Mahinog, the island is four hectares of evergreen forest, fringed with white granule sand beaches. One side of the island laced with a whitesand beach and coral offshore while the opposite side provides a deep drop-off for snorkeling and diving.

Located in Mindanao, Philippines this volcanic island is off the beaten path, even for most local holiday-makers. But with its lush greenery, fine white sand and hot springs Camiguin Island awards those who make the effort to visit.

How to get to Camiguin
One can head to Camiguin by land, sea and air. Roro (Roll-on, roll-off) services Camiguin through the Bohol-Camiguin route. By air, one can take a flight to Cebu, Bohol or Cagayan de Oro and take a ferry to Camiguin.

The best time to visit
Camiguin’s climate is almost the same with the rest of the country, which has the rainy season and dry season. Camiguin experiences monsoon rains from November to February but the rest of the year is relatively dry. Therefore best time to go without the hassle of cancellation of boat trips and flights would be the “summer” months that start at the middle of March until May.

Camiguin Activities

Being a volcanic island, Camiguin has unique rock formations good for trekking, climbing, canyoning and rappelling.

Camiguin also features a sunken cemetery off-shore, submerged by a volcanic explosion a long time ago. The cemetery is now one of the popular dive sites in the island. Camiguin also has no busy nightlife, which is perfect for those who just want to lie down by the beach.

Lake Sebu South Cotabato the Home of our Very Own Tiboli tribe

2012-08-05T11:14:00.000-07:00

This southwestern Mindanao’s summer capital conceals majestic waterfalls called Seven Falls, located in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.

Cable and ziplines provide exhilarating adventures for those who are brave enough to zip from falls to falls while looking down at the breathtaking panorama.

The second falls, simply named as Falls 2, is not far from the first waterfall, Dongon Falls. Just a short habal-habal going down the road from Dongon falls, you’ll reach the entrance gate. The place has been developed into a park and these can best be viewed through the stunning and exciting zipline.

all the 7 falls actually have names:

1st Falls – Hikong Alu – passage

2nd Falls – Hikong Bente – unmeasurable

3rd Falls – Hikong B’lebed – zigzag, coil

4th Falls – Hikong Lowig – booth

5th Falls – Hikong Kefo-I – wild flower

6th Falls – Hikong Ukol – short

7th Falls – Hikong Tonok – soil

The Beautiful island of Surigao

2012-08-03T23:43:00.002-07:00

The Britannia Group of Islands

Down south in the Province of Surigao Del Sur lie stunning 24 Islands and Islets so beautifully scattered in the waters Lianga Bay facing the great Oceans of the Pacific. These amazing gifts of nature are calledBRITANNIA GROUP OF ISLANDS.

My love and passion for the beach lead me to discover the many beautiful beaches in my Island Philippines and my native land Mindanao. Without any doubt, with the 7,107 Islands of the Philippines, some of the best kept beaches in the world can be found here.

Britannia Group of Islands is situated in Barangay Britannia of San Agustin in the central region of Surigao Del Sur. From Davao City, San Agustin can be reached by passenger bus or private vehicle approximately 6 hours away. The road trip going there may be dull but rest assured these Islets are worth the long travel.Not known to many, Surigao del Sur, an eastern province of Mindanao is blessed with different islands and islets on its coastal area. Among these Islands in the entire province, Britannia Group of Islands are the most enticing. When I first set my eyes on these islets, I immediately succumbed myself to pure admiration to its beauty that I say truly beyond compare.

jumping shot just for fun

Asorted Pics Luzon, visayas, mindanao

2012-08-03T23:04:00.001-07:00

Patapat Viaduct

2012-08-03T22:18:00.000-07:00

If there is something notable in Ilocos aside from amazing beaches and panoramic mountains, it is the wide concrete roads. Ferdinand Marcos makes sure Ilocandia got that. So a viaduct in Ilocos would not be surprising. However, what makes the Patapat Viaduct amazing is, they not only construct it wide, they also make it poetic.

The Patapat Viaduct, located at the municipality of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte is a scenic elevated highway snaking around the coast at the foot of the North Cordillera Mountain Range. It was constructed to connect the Maharlika Highway from Laoag, Ilocos Norte to the Cagayan Valley Region. Its piers rest on spread footings founded on outcropping bedrock.

This majestic 1.2 km winding viaduct has a cousin in France and is also known as the French Riviera of the Northern Philippines. The viaduct totally changes the landscape adding a touch of human power of creation against the verdant mountains.

The bridge is elevated 31 meters above sea level, and connects the Maharlika Highway from Laoag to the Cagayan Valley. The bridge is also the 4th longest bridge in the Philippines. The viaduct was constructed by Hanil Development Co. Ltd. under the overall management of DPWH-PMO-PJHK and was completed and opened to traffic in October 1986.

There are only few vehicles passing on the viaduct and it was practically deserted so we have safe time taking pictures on the wide road. The view of the sea is amazing and you will not regret getting stuck in traffic here because you’ll have the chance to check out the view and maybe reflect on something.

The viaduct trailed the side of the panoramic mountains against the passing falls. This is just a quick tricycle tour so we just stopped there took pictures and leave for our next destination - Kalbario Patapat Natural Park

Banggui Ilocos Norte

2012-08-03T21:35:00.003-07:00

Bangui is bounded by the Bangui Bay on the north; the Municipality of Burgos on the west; Pagudpud on the northeast; Dumalneg on the east; and Adams on the southeast. The town is 66 kilometers away north of Ilocos Norte’s capital, Laoag. About 10 kilometers south of the town is the famous Zigzag Road which provides travelers a sweeping view of Bangui’s verdant mountains, the blue sea, and the flowing river that sneaks through its western barrios. It has a total land area of 163.59 square kilometers and is composed of 15 barangays, with a population of 13,774 in 1995.

The first mission of Bangui was established by the Augustinians of February 14, 1607 supposedly at the request of one Capitan Ribero, the encomendero of the place. The natives who rejected baptism were called pagans and they were driven away from their lands. Those who accepted baptism were called Christians. In 1624, the town was made into a parish with Father Pedro Valenzuela as the first minister. The Spanish missionaries considered the date as the foundation year of Bangui.

During the revolution in 1896, the remnants of the Spanish army in Luzon, driven b superior Filipino forces under the command of General Jorico retreated to Bangui and took their last foothold in the are.

Bangui is famous for its swimming resort along a circumferential bay which is considered as the best scenery in the whole island of Luzon. The livelihood of the people comes from farming, fishing, and mat-making. The construction of the P1.8 Million Lipsoc communal irrigation dam project in Bangui is a boon to its agricultural economy. The dam can irrigate 205 hectares of land and will benefit some 300 farmers in seven adjacent barangays, resulting in increased production of rice, corn, garlic, vegetables, and mongo.

Bangui today is already considered as an urban community. It is groomed as a possible site for a free port or specialized economic zone because of its favorable location. Furthermore, when the Laoag-Allacapan road is fully completed, it will enhance Bangui’s emerging prominence, extending its influence as far as the eastern towns of Cagayan Province.

it was my first time conquering Ilocos Sur, the land of my ancestors (mother side). My primary aim there together with my family was to have the grasp of the heritage that our Filipino ancestors left during the Spanish colonial era. Vigan City was one of them of course, but I have set my eyes towards one of the four baroque churches inscribed in the World Heritage List, the Santa Maria Church or Iglesia de Nuesta Señora de la Asuncion (Simbahan iti Asunta sa Ilokano).

The Church of Santa Maria or sometimes called Santa Maria de Assunta Church is found at the town of Santa Maria in the province of Ilocos Sur, about an hour away from Vigan City. This magnificent ancient structure is located in the town’s narrow hill overlooking the poblacion (town proper) and its vast plains and hills. The church compound is made up of the church itself, the belfry and the convent in front of it. If you are a Kapamilya fan, you should’ve seen this in their soap opera “Panday.”

Built starting in 1810, it was believed to be the place where the Blessed Virgin’s image was frequently found after series of disappearance during the Spanish colonial period. (Sounds very familiar to other stories in the islands as well.) The church was made by the Ilocanos under the supervision of the Agustinian friars (therefore it’s an Agustinian church, same as with the rest of UNESCO’s baroque churches in the country!). The church is dedicated to its patroness Our Lady of Assumption or La Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion.

The church itself is narrow, made up mostly of red bricks, stone and lime. In detail, the church’s decors on the wall have its floral design. The façade itself, although not intricate, yet simply has a rectangle column with massive circular buttresses on its side soaring towards the urn finials on the top of the pediment. The façade of the church is blocked by a bridge linking the church and the convent some few meters away. The buttresses on its sides serve as its protection against possible collapse. On its northwestern walls, there is a mural of Our Lady…but I heard that this is somehow a more recent addition to the church and not during the construction of the church itself. The narrowness of the hill has somehow made this impressive and massive structure a bit smaller compared to its sisters in Ilocos. However, this factor was one of the reasons why it is one of the most outstanding in its simplicity of its baroque features.

Going there:

We went there upon returning from our trip to Vigan. Again, its about an hour away either by private or public buses. The most convenient way for you to access Santa Maria are Ilocos-bound buses such as Farias, Partas, Viron bus lines that serve either Laoag, Vigan in Ilocos or Bangued in Abra. The fare directly to Santa Maria is probably approximately between PhP 400 to PhP 500 one way and its about 7 hours trip from Manila. (Well, last year, it was a grueling 14 hour ride, almost all of the cars in Metro Manila I think left for the provinces, and major traffic jams that lasted for miles occurred in Dau, Tarlac and most especially Rosales-Villasis-Urdaneta area!)

Luzon trip Vigan, Pagudpod, Baluarte and Etc

2012-08-03T20:12:00.000-07:00

Vigan, with its centuries-old edifices, is a breathing reminder of what was once a royal city.

One of the earliest Spanish settlements in the country, Vigan was founded in 1572 by Juan de Salcedo who patterned its design to that of Intramuros (Old Manila). It became the seat of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia and was called Ciudad Fernandina in honor of King Ferdinand.

Today, Vigan retains much of the patina of 18th century Castillan architecture as seen in some 150 stone houses which stand in the town's Mestizo District, notably Mena Crisologo Street. Many of these ancestral homes are still in good condition and some have been turned into cozy inns, museums, and souvenir shops.

Along with the homes are other vestiges of the town's colonial past:The majestic St. Paul's Cathedral was built by the Augustinian friars along the distinct "Earthquake Baroque" style of the Ilocos region and features Neo-Gothic and pseudo Romanesque motifs. Standing on an elevation west of the cathedral is Plaza Salcedo, the oldest monument in Northern Luzon. The Archbishop's Palace is a rich repository of religious artifacts from the Ilocos region. Plaza Burgos was built in honor of Fr. Jose Burgos, one of three Filipino priests who were garroted by the Spaniards for espousing church reforms.

But it is not only edifices which are preserved in this town inscribed in the World Heritage List. Viganos also remain steadfast in their traditional crafts, notably pottery (burnay) and handloom weaving (inabel).The horse-drawn calesa (rig) is as much a presence in the streets as motor vehicles.

Baluarte is 80 hectares of gently rolling terrains, hills and mountain sides, the structures of facilities and amenities, its phases of construction is in its best possible realistic and natural habitat for good and sound animal care.

Located along the western seaboard of Northern Luzon 408 kilometers north of Manila, bounded in the South by South China Sea, Baluarte has its breathtaking view of Vigan City. Baluarte is open to the public and admission is FREE. It is actually Governor Chavit's gift to the people of Vigan where residents are accorded free use of spaces for their livelihood programs.

Baluarte started off as a rest house in 1991 with celebrity friends like Fernando Poe Jr. as regular visitor spending long weekends. The place has already considerable numbers of domestic animals like monkeys, chickens, large lizards (bayawak) and rare bird species, right inside the Baluarte forest, these rare bird species are found only in there. Governor Chavit, loves nature and exhibits passion for animals. Baluarte setting is that place where he can enjoy peace and quiet and away from the demands of a busy life and urban living. As a political leader of Ilocos Sur, people searched for him continuously.

So the rest house cannot anymore accommodate people and friends who also enjoy the place, that was, when he decided to slowly construct Baluarte. He first constructed the main house and seeing the beauty of the next, he abandoned the old main house, made it the guest house, and constructed a multi level house on a hilltop that magnifies the fantastic view of Vigan City that stretches all the way to the South China Sea.

Baluarte is a ten minute drive from Vigan City. Vigan City, the only surviving colonial town in the Philippines the city's Spanish colonial architecture have remarkably escaped the ravages of World War II. Listed in the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List, Vigan City has its centuries-old houses with cobblestone paved streets, churches, plazas, public buildings retained for generations to behold

The Hidden Beauty of Quezon Bukidnon, Bluewater

2012-08-03T18:15:00.000-07:00

Bluewater located at San Jose, Quezon Bukidnon. feel free to ask question about this post

Most likely underground river of palawan pero mas maganda parin ito kasi fresh na fresh yung tubig. as in spring

WHEN I was young, I used to think of Bukidnon as just one vast, underpopulated land mass that connects Davao to Cagayan de Oro.

Most of the time, whenever we travel across this massive territory (bordered by Misamis Oriental, Agusan del Sur, Davao del Norte, Cotabato, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, and Davao City), I would just be in slumber, not knowing that there’s more than meets the eye. It was only when I was a bit older and has began to travel alone when I learned to appreciate Bukidnon’s grandeur, thus resulting to the onset of my love affair with this great land.

In our road trip last weekend to this landlocked province in Northern Mindanao, I was able to understand further why people call it the “food basket of Mindanao”. Aside from the vast plantations of pinapple that straddles the towns of Manolo Fortich, Sumilao, Impasug-ong and Libona (by the way, the Del Monte pineapple plantation in Bukidnon is regarded as Asia’s largest), Bukidnon is also a major producer of rice, sugar, corn, coffee, rubber, banana, tomato, cut-flowers, cassava, and other crops, fruits and vegetables. It is also a major producer of chickens, hogs and cattle. Now, that’s a lot of food inside one huge basket!

Below the cliff lies a cave where, after a short walk inside, the Blue Water’s source – a twin of seemingly bottomless pools of spring water – can be found. Unable to resist temptation, made a swift dip in its nippy waters in one shallow corner of one of the underground pools of Blue Water.
The view inside the dim underground pool was surreal, with only faint beams of light from outside touching the seemingly placid water. Even as we would have wanted to, we could not swim farther from shore fearing that the undercurrent might vacuum us out into the raging waters of the Pulangi River.

After a quick lunch, we ascended back to the cliffs where the solid limestone white rock walls were waiting for our next activity: rock climbing and rappelling. The white rock wall is frequented by rock climbers, making it one of the most popular attractions of Quezon.

The mist set in early in the evening as the nippy weather of Bukidnon slowly lulled us to sleep, dreaming and looking forward to a promise of more adventures in the next two days of our trip in Bukidnon.

Most likely underground river of palawan pero mas maganda parin ito kasi fresh na fresh yung tubig. as in spring

cave going to underground river

the outer side

celebrate life with nature eheheheheheh woahhhh

The Manila Ocean Park and Luneta Park

2012-08-03T18:14:00.001-07:00

After my Baler Trip we drop to manila and roaming around heheheehh yun ;lang hirap naman magsulat!

luneta park heading to Manila Ocean Park

the Manila ocean park, Manila

Manila Ocean Park started as the first marine-themed park in the Philippines, and has now evolved into an integrated resort destination housing exciting, enticing, and enriching marine life attractions that are truly at par with Asia’s best. Aside from learning about marine life wonders and the importance of conserving the environment, guests will also enjoy multi-sensory spectacles and world-class lifestyle hotspots. Come visit them and have the ultimate Manila Ocean Park

the manila ocean park, Manila

the Finale Light Show ehehehheheheheh just try to experience sariling atin show

Come and Visit .... there one day

hidden beauty of Baler Aurora

2012-08-03T17:55:00.000-07:00

As the capital and oldest municipality of Aurora Province, Baler is the seat of government and the center for trade and industry. The most progressive town in Aurora, Baler commands the most resorts, public institutions and facilities, as well as business establishments.

The town of Baler was founded in 1609. Its original name was Kinagunasan and its first inhabitants were the Angara, Bitong, Carrasco and Lumasac families.

In December 1735, a tidal wave struck and completely engulfed Kinagunasan. The wave struck the town without warning at 2 a.m., and within an hour the entire town was gone. The parish priest of Casiguran, who was then visiting Baler, managed to survive by swimming to the hill of Point Baja. Other survivors included the families of Angara and Bitong. The sudden onslaught of the wave and the fact that the nearby towns of Casiguran, Dipaculao and Dingalan were left untouched has turned the catastrophe into a folk legend of biblical proportions.

By 1737, Franciscan priests had established a barangay form of government in the area. A revolutionary government took over Baler from 1898 to 1901.

Baler is home to the Baler Catholic Church, where in 1899, Spanish resistance fighters held off an onslaught from American troops until they finally surrendered on July 2, 1899.

On November 1, 1901, the Americans established a municipal government in Baler.

Attractions

Baler is known for numerous tourist attractions. In addition to the Baler Catholic Church and other historical sites , there are resorts at Sabang Beach and Cemento Beach, where surfers from all over the world compete for the annual International Aurora Surfing Cup. The coral-rich islands of Dimadimalangat, Aniao and Lukso-Lukso lie just off the coast.

GETTING TO AURORA

The province can be accessed from Manila via two routes, the Canili-Pantabangan road and the Baler-Bongabon Road. The former leads into the town of Maria Aurora. Some portions of the road are very steep. The latter route leads to the town of San Luis and ends in Baler. This route is more commonly used. The use of public transportation is recommended for traveling to Baler. Driving a personal vehicle to Baler may be difficult, given the long drive through rough, narrow and zigzagging mountain roads. Through the joint efforts of Senator Edgardo Angara and Governor Bella Angara-Castillo, the Baler-Bongaban Road has been largely paved with cement. This cuts travel time by almost two hours, making it a more comfortable trip for private vehicle travelers. Sport utility vehicles are highly recommended.From time to time, the Baler-Bongabon road is inaccessible due to landslides and typhoons.Travelers are advised to contact locals, local government offices or public transportation companies which have routes to/from Aurora for information on which route is ideal to use at any given time.

Land Transportation

Manila to Baler
From Manila, enter the North Expressway at Balintawak and exit at Sta. Rita Bulacan. From there, follow the highway leading to Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija. It is advisable to stop for a snack here in preparation for a rough journey. From Cabanatuan City Proper, follow signs leading to Bongabon until you come to a fork, where you see a sign "to Baler" headed right. Turn right and you will reach the foot of the Baler-Bongabon highway which eventually runs right into Aurora National Memorial Park. Beware of wild zigzagging roads, fast trucks and landslides during rainy season. Use this opportunity to view the lush virgin forests of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range. After approximately 150 kilometers, you will see the Aurora Welcome Arch. Proceed until you reach the town of San Luis. Stay on the highway until you see the sign going to Baler, and you will be in its town proper within minutes.

Genesis Transport Bus provides the only direct route to Baler from Metro Manila. One way fare costs PhP341. Its terminal is located along EDSA in Pasay City. You may call +63 (2) 551-0842 or +63 (2) 853-3115 for inquiries.

There are Pantranco North buses that go on daily trips from Manila to Cabanatuan, and sometimes also goes through to Baler. Take a bus marked Aparri, Ilagan, San Jose or Tuguegarao. The trip takes about two and a half hours. Travelers from the north will have to change buses at Cabanatuan.

Alternatively, take a Baliwag Transit bus from the terminal at Cubao, Quezon City, which goes to Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija. From there, go to the Sierra Madre Transit or Pantranco terminals and take a bus heading for Baler. The last bus leaves at 3:00 p.m. Jeepney rides are also available. On the return trip, take the Genesis Sierra Madre and Pantranco buses from Baler Poblacion.

Manila to Dingalan
Take a bus from Manila to Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija. Once there, find the terminal for the Dingalan-bound buses and take a Danilo Express bus bound for Dingalan. A jeepney is also an option. On the return trip to Manila, take the Danilo Express. There are only two bus trips to and from Dingalan in a day, once in the morning and once in the afternoon.

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bays inn Baler

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experience mountain climbing at Baler. Lukso lukso beach

experience surfing at Baler.

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come and visit to experience different adventure in Baler Aurora

Davao Funrun sponsored by Marco POlo

2012-02-18T11:43:00.000-08:00

Davao Funrun organized by Marco Polo Davao

Dinagyang Festival Iloilo City

2012-02-18T10:41:00.000-08:00

2012 dinagyang Festival Ilo-ilo City

kapoy na butang ug watermark and copyrights. bahala na ug kawaton ninyo dili bitaw na original size and high resuliton pic naa ra ghapon sa akoa ang raw and original files eheheheh enjoy viewing. wag lang nakawin heehehheehhe

Tribal Costume Presentation

kapoy na butang ug watermark and copyrights. bahala na ug kawaton ninyo dili bitaw na original size and high resuliton pic naa ra ghapon sa akoa ang raw and original files eheheheh enjoy viewing. wag lang nakawin heehehheehhe