TRAVELING BALANCE

MINALABAC: Discover the Pebble Beach of Bicol

2013-04-17T20:25:00.001-07:00

When I was in Surigao City, I was really amazed with the peculiar beach I've found there, the Baragabon Beach Resort in Brgy Mabua. Instead of sand, the shoreline is covered with multi-colored, smooth pebbles varying in sizes. It was then my first time in my entire travel that i saw this kind of beach so I am very thankful I've gone to that place. Without knowing, there is also similar kind of beach in my home province that I newly discovered. Thanks to Rey Garing, my batch mate who gave me an idea to explore this beach. He was so persistent to schedule a reconnaissance on the place and eventually, an outing with our batch mates. Fortunately, our first plan has been realized but the second is still hanging. Actually, I already heard of this beach a long time ago, but hesitate to go on this part of Bicol because of the reports or hearsay that the place was infested. You know what I mean. Although many people including me has the desire to explore the undiscovered beach that time, we don't have guts to do because there were reports before that there were "nice people around" down there. Furthermore, the place was not that accessible before. Very rough roads and mountainous terrains are some of the hindrances you encounter you as you enter remote barangays of Minalabac. It needs an experienced driver, with uphill and downhill driving skills, to get to the place. That was long before. After a few years passed, Bagolatao beach is now very accessible to anyone. Roads were concreted, beaches were developed and most especially, peace order situation has been far good.

Reconnaissance with Rey Garing and Kulo.

Pebble Beach

Boats for hire.

Unexploited, this is the word I best describe Bagolatao Beach. Unlike other beaches which are being visited by many people all year round, Bagolatao has only few visitors. Not because it's not cool but because it was recently discovered. During summer there are only two favorite beach destinations in Camarines Sur, Nato in Sangay and Daroanak or Magtabid in Pasacao.

THE BEACH

Bagolatao is so beautiful because of its clear water, vegetated shoreline, and breath-taking scenery of nature. Cottages are cheap ranging from 150-250 pesos only. Cottage owners are thoughtful that they even provide you with firewood if you would like grill or cook. Coconuts are all around the place, you can request a "fresh from the tree-buko" if you like. If you would like to go boating, there are many boats available for only 20 Php or if you are a group there are 300Php big boats. Boating destination includes the "mini-falls" which is about 10-15 minutes rowing and "mini-caves" along the way.

HOW TO GET THERE?

Commute?Jeepneys have direct daily trip from Naga City to Bagolatao. It will take about 1 hour ride for 50 Php. If you have a service vehicle, there are three ways to go there. First, From Naga via Milaor or Palestina, Pili. If You're from Pili proper, you can take the Pili- Mataorok-Minalabac Road. My speedometer read 31 km when I tried to measure the distance from Pili proper to the beach. Anyway, there are signs visible in the roads for directions.

Caution: some roads have one lane only and some are still rough.

BAGUIO CITY: Back to Minesview After Five Long Years

2013-01-23T05:23:00.003-08:00

Baguio City was my first destination for the year 2013. A place that was so relaxing and refreshing suited for the people who wants to find coolness and and a great place to unwind. Thermometers here read 9.5 degrees Celsius, the coldest so far this year. This may not be that cold compare to other countries' winter season which mmhg readings reached negative numbers, but for those who are in a tropical environment, like the Philippines, this level of coldness was too cold for them. Temperature here in Baguio drops the lowest during the months of January and February, which tourist from other parts of the country take this opportunity to experience the cold weather. Cool breeze outside makes you chill to the bones. Two shirts and a thick jacket is no match to the coldness especially during dusk till dawn. But despite the coldness, Baguio City still can be considered a city that never sleeps. Many people stay outside at night. Some go to parks, some go to the bars, and most of them go to the night market. Night market here starts at around 9 o'clock until 4 in the morning. In the market, you can almost find anything that you're looking for, from clothing, to accessories, shoes and other footwear, different kinds of souvenirs and of course, food.

After 5 year, it's nice to be back in Baguio City. After checking-in to the hotel somewhere in Bokawkan road, I immediately went downtown to reminisce my past experience in the Burnham Park but unfortunately the park was under renovation. Backhoes and bulldozers were on the lake conducting dredging to deepen the lake and workers were concreting the walls of the lake. On my thoughts, after this renovations this park would not be as natural as before. This lake would be turned into a big artificial pool.

MINESVIEW PARK

After disappointing scene in Burnham park, I went on to one of the most visited place here in the city, the Minesview Park. The iconic structure in the park was still there but this place changed a lot. Before, you can enjoy the place for it was so convenient to stroll. You can pose wherever you want. But this time, the park was too crowded. Stalls and souvenirs shops proliferated fast for the past years which left tourist a very limited place to wander. I also pity the dogs made as props for picture taking of the tourist, never mind the horses they were used to it and that's been their role for a very long time, but the dogs? If the situation in this park will remain this way, time will come (not for long) no tourist will ever visit this iconic park in Baguio.

MAJAYJAY : Rock Balancing in Taytay Falls

2012-11-25T03:12:00.001-08:00

Are you a nature lover and looking for an alternative place for summer getaway? Taytay Falls in Majayjay, Laguna is one of the best place to go.

GENSAN: Place and Owner's Attitude in Contrast

2012-11-12T19:05:00.000-08:00

This resort can be the most famous in General Santos City. Several prominent personalities from showbiz, politics, arts and sports have already been here. As proofs of their visit, the management provide prominent visitors with a plate where they can write what they can say about the resort and of course with their signature as proof of authenticity. Many tourist chose this place maybe because of its natural beauty. Situated on top of a higher ground where you can watch a scenic view of the Sarangani Bay. Different kinds of flower can also be found here. Flowers with varying sizes, colors and smells all around also serve as plus- factor for attracting clients. They even decorated every door with paintings of flower that added more natural ambiance in the resort. This resort can also be considered as the "bonsai" center in Mindanao. A collection of bonsai of different sizes can be found here. This resort is ideal if you want to go away from the noisy city and hang-out with nature. An acoustic band is playing during nighttime if you want to have a more romantic night and the sing-all-u-can videoke on the other side is open if you want to rock the night with your friends.

The bonsai collection.

During nighttime in the resort.

But its true that you cannot find an ideal place. There always be a flaw in every place you go, even in a grandeur resort. It may be on the facilities, amenities, food, or customer service. This time the flaw I have observed is no less than the owner of this resort. How beautiful is this place is in contrary with the attitude of the owner. He is very accommodating with high profile guests but not with ordinary one, like me. At worst, to his employees. I observed how he treated the employees of the resort. And watch out for the words that comes out from his mouth when dealing with them. It's in contrast with the resort itself.

ENTOMOS: A Collection of Small Creatures Met on the Road

2012-10-26T20:11:00.002-07:00

According to the experts, there are more than a million species of insects. Some are harmful and others are beneficial. As a part of nature's ecosystem, insect play a very important role in environment. Insects helps produce life.They are of great help to humans and plants as well. Imagine this world without insect. Plants are the main source of food for most animals. They are the reason why most of us and other animals live. But since they are stationary living things, insect helps them to reproduce in the process called pollination. Of course, there's wind and other factors of pollination but insect plays very large factor in this process. How can we produce beautiful flowers without insects? Its hard, Isn't it? Some insects also are destined to be on the lowest part of food chain which are beneficial to other forms of species. Although some insect are beneficial, there are also lot of them that are harmful to other forms of species especially humans. Mosquitoes, cockroaches and flies are some that were identified to be harmful. They can cause diseases to plants, animals and humans too. But despite of their harmfulness, they are still part of nature.

Due to their sizes, most of the times we are unaware of their presence until we learn the benefits and harms they carry. We can never ignore mosquitoes until someone got sick because of them. We can never give much important to them until we learned that they are responsible for the production of beautiful flowers we appreciate most. Here are some snapshots of insect I've meet along the road:

This little hairy caterpillar was crawling somewhere over the garden on Lake Sebu, South Cotabato when I met him. Don't be surprised if one day you will be meeting him in another form and style after he undergo metamorphosis.

Meet the Lady beetle from Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat. This tiny attractive lady is too shy that it will hold still and fall if ever someone touch her. Although they are supposed to be fragrant because they are ladies, sorry to say but they have that peculiar scent not because of hygienic reason but to the scent serves as protection from their marauders.

Meet Bumblebee from Kabacan, Cotabato. This little creature was the inspiration of the creator of the famous alien robot named bumblebee. This robot's color, form, style and agility resembles much with this insect.

Meet Black Dragonfly. This member of the Order Odonata (Anisoptera) has made this photo-op around Seven Falls in Lake Sebu. This insect belongs to the some of the fastest insects in the world. Although he is a predator, he also becomes prey for other species.

No, I'm not a butterfly!. This was what this little moth said on this picture taking in Buluan, Maguindanao. He is trying to tell us to learn the difference between their co-member of the order "lepidoptera".

This insect was spotted on Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.

Strictly for adults only! These couple was spotted having a good time in the garden in Laguna.

"Sleeping Time"

These are not insects, they belong to arachnid family.

LAKE SEBU: A Treasure of South Cotabato

2012-10-22T01:16:00.000-07:00

Within the Alah Valley of South Cotabato there lies the beautiful and bountiful town of Lake Sebu. Named after the town, Lake Sebu is considered a treasure of the province for this place is gifted with abundant natural resources. Aside from tourism, Lake Sebu is the main source of livelihood for the locals. Tilapia are the main product they get from the lake. This is also one of the bodies of water that supply water to South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat provinces for irrigation and domestic consumption. Before being establish as a municipality, Lake Sebu is only a part of Surallah. Because of its rich resources and growing number of villagers around the lake, this barangay was formed into an independent municipality. Most dwellers here are the T'bolis and the Ubo's which are natives of Lake Sebu.

Explore the beauty of the lake by boating around the island in the middle of the lake. Fish cages are now proliferating in the area. It will took you about 30-45 minutes to round the lake. Here are some images I've got as I go around :

HOW TO GET THERE

Lake Sebu is accessible by land only (unless you have a chopper). From Davao city it will be a 6 hours travel. Davao to Gensan is approximately less than 3 hours (depending on the kind of vehicle you are using). Then Gensan to Lake Sebu via Koronadal and Surallah, is about 2.5 hrs travel. If you are from Tacurong City, It will take about 1.5 hours to reached the area. Lake Sebu is about 20 km from its nearby town Surallah.

Punta Isla Resort in Lake Sebu.

SEVEN FALLS: Experience the Highest Zipline in Asia

2012-10-21T01:18:00.000-07:00

Once a dream, now a reality. Today, I've witness another amazing and jaw-dropping artwork of Mother Nature here in southern part of Mindanao, The SEVEN FALLS. Seven Falls, a series of 7 majestic waterfalls with varying sizes and height, is located at the town of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato province. Locals of the area, the T'bolis, gave each waterfalls a nickname. The 1st waterfalls was named "Hikong Alu" a T'boli word meaning "the passage". The 2nd waterfalls is " Hikong Bente" means the immeasurable. The 3rd waterfalls is "Hikong B'lebed" means the zigzag. 4th waterfalls is "Hikong Lowig" means booth. 5th waterfalls is "Hikong Kefo-l" means wildflower. 6th waterfalls is "Hikong Ukol" means the short one. The 7th and the last waterfalls is the "Hikong Tonok" means soil.

THE PASSAGE

From the town proper of Lake Sebu, it will only take you about 20 mins to be in the Seven Falls. As you climb your way to the place you can take a snap shot of the 2nd waterfalls from the top. You can also observe and take pictures of the wild monkeys along the road. Before you can enter the 1st falls, you have to pay 20 Php as entrance fee. But the amount of entrance fee is nothing compared with what you are about to experience inside. You can actually go directly to the 2nd falls via different road aside from the main entrance but it's very hard to ignore the 1st amazing falls. Hikong Alu or the passage is the largest of the seven. Water from a river on top artfully fall from a 35 ft height making trembling sound as it hits the bottom.

This is the 1st waterfalls taken from a small bridge on the river where it flows. So beautiful that you can't be contended on just a glance. Very artistic walls behind the falls are also amazing. It's like raining all the time near the falls because of the water particles spread to the air created by the impact of falling water.

THE IMMEASURABLE

Truly, the 2nd falls deserves its name. This waterfalls has an immeasurable beauty, appeal, and depth. This falls is a mysterious one. It's like a home for the creatures of different world (hehehe as seen from movies). A place where you can see a goddess of the forest. Water falling from the top ( 70 ft high) creates a roaring sound louder than the 1st falls. And its impact creates a fog around it's base that adds mystery to this falls. More artistic walls and soil formations are very distinct around the falls. You can reach the base by 3 different ways. First is to simply ride a motorcycle for hire going down. Second is going through a tiring 774 steps stiff stairs passing through the woods. If you don't do any exercise, for sure your knee will be shaking halfway. And the third way is the best way to go to the best of the 2nd falls.It is through zipline.

THE HIGHEST ZIPLINE IN ASIA
After your eyes have been satisfied by staring at the alluring waterfalls, next thing to be satisfied here is your thrill-hungry and adventurous inner-self. Zipline and bungy jumping trampoline are available on this place. And take note, zipline here is the highest zipline in Asia, so far. It was built as high as 180 ft. If you try the this adventure, you have to go through a breathtaking 740 and 420 meters rides. After you have seen the 1st and 2nd falls of course the tendency is to look for the rest of the seven falls. But there's no way you can see them if you don't go the zipline. While up hanging in the air, you can observe all the rest of the falls. One of the most distinctive from above is the Hikong B'lebed or the zigzag falls.

WHAT TO EAT INSIDE SEVEN FALLS

After you've been through the sights and adventures for sure you will be hungry this time. Here are some that you would like to eat inside the area. Tasty and fresh-from-the-tree durians are very much available. And the best viand for your lunch is the freshly grilled tilapia from the lake of this town.

BULUAN: Resources Rich Town Of Maguindanao

2012-10-17T03:52:00.004-07:00

This is Buluan Town in Maguindanao Province. My first time to be here in this story-filled town. Buluan is a Muslim town. Christians here have been converted into Muslims too. The town's name became familiar during the time of Maguindanao Massacre. This is the place of origin of the controversial Governor , Ismael Mangudadatu, whose First Lady (because he has a 2nd and 3rd ladies) was killed together with 56 others. And the main reason is politics. Because of that incidence back way November 2009, violence was being associated with the town of Buluan. Many people, especially from Luzon areas, are afraid to set foot on this land. Although there's a little bit nervous I decided to explore this town just to know what they say about Buluan and prove that this town is really the kind of place which they think of.

OUR GUIDE

Before with went to Buluan, we contacted first our friend, Ibrahim aka Bryan, to be our guide in exploring the town. Bryan is a Muslim from the town of Paglas, Maguindanao but has been working in Buluan for almost 2 years now. We were so thankful for him to be our guide because he is very familiar with the place, people and culture of Buluan. He also can speak Tagalog, English and Bisaya so communications had been good with him. Along the way, Bryan told stories and incidents happened recently in this town, Most of them are gunfight or war between Muslims or the so called Redo.

LAKE BULUAN

From Tacurong City, we traveled about 20 minutes to Buluan proper where Bryan was waiting for us. We rode a motorcycle going to our first destination, the Lake Buluan. After 25 minutes ride on a rough and rocky road, we reached the famous lake. Buluan lake is full of fish cages. Tilapia is the common fish they produce here. There was a little shed which serves as docking port where they unload harvested tilapia. Middlemen, brokers and buyers were waiting for every boat to dock for the fish going to sell. We also want to taste their product so we decided to buy. But all fishes that were sold like hotcakes, so we waited for other fish cage owners for their catch. No weighing scale was used in selling, they only estimated how many pieces were worth 200Php. In the estimate, we were given 15 pieces of tilapia and to my estimate, it was about 5 kg. I was so amazed of the transaction because we got more than our money's worth. But my friend said, It was too little compared when you buy during harvest season.

HOME ALONG THE LAKE

Along the lake shore is a small village of about a hundred homes. Houses in this Muslim village which are made of light materials, are constructed side by side just like in an urban squatters area. Lake water under these houses serves as the source of water for domestic consumption. Here, they take a bath and wash their clothes and dishes. It is their little children's swimming pool, too. Some people said that this village is firearms-free area which I observed it myself. I observed that carrying of weapon especially firearms are common in this area. Ordinary civilian can carry a gun along without any license. Military personnel were also present at the area (also carrying guns). Anyone can carry a gun. According to some locals, they used to carry guns for protection of their lives and business. That's why skirmish can always happen anytime.

After waiting for more than 30 minutes, we left the lake with 15 pieces of talapia. We went back to the town proper where we can cook the fish and took our lunch. We just grilled the tilapia with soy sauce and kalamansi filled with "siling labuyo". We also have "pastil" instead of plain rice to pair with the grilled tilapia.

After lunch we've been toured by our guide on the town proper. We went to municipal hall, a mosque and the satellite of the provincial capitol.

TAGUM: Artworks of Mindanao's Famous Artist

2012-10-09T02:47:00.001-07:00

Have you been to the City of Tagum lately? If yes, for sure you have visited the newly constructed city hall in Brgy. Apokon. The city of Tagum constructed an ambitious project, a futuristic architectural design city hall. Although the structure is not totally finished, you can say that it is one of the most beautiful city hall ever built in the Philippines. It is a 4-storey building with a unique design surrounded with sculptures made by Mindanao's famous artist, Kublai Ponce Millan. Kublai is the most known artist in Mindanao. The Philippines eagle and freedom statue in Davao's city hall, Risen Lord at the Christ the King parish in Tagum, The huge sculpture of durian that welcomes visitors in Davao's airport are some of his masterpiece. Kublai is not just an ordinary artist. Aside from sculpture, he also involves in photography and painting. And one thing unique in him is his ability to turn garbage into artistic pieces.

The new city hall of Tagum showcases several distinctive Kublai's artworks with theme: "Musikahan sa Tagum". In these pieces different kinds of local or indigenous musical instruments that were used in the annual Musikahan sa Tagum Festival are shown. Aside from being dubbed as "Palm city of the Philippines", These statues also proves that Tagum City is the Music Capital of Mindanao.

NAGA CITY: Remembering Jesse

2012-10-08T01:59:00.000-07:00

Election 2013 is fast approaching. It will be less than seven months to go. Although election fever in the country started several months or a year ago, the start of the filing of candidacy made it intense. So many "pakulo" or gimmicks were observed on the filing of candidacy itself. There were politician (mostly trapos) have their paid supporters to accompany them in just mere filing of candidacy. Some have even the complete drum and lyre corps going to Comelec office just like a parade in a festival. One candidate even walk with bare feet as a superstitious belief, hehe, unfortunately his line up didn't bite up his gimmick. But the point here is that if they have already spent a large sum of money in the filing of candidacy how much more in the campaign period. As we all know the logic of these politicians, "the more you spend, the more you gain" is very dangerous. The more they spend in the elections, the more they get or steal from the money of the people. I salute this group ANTI-EPAL CAMPAIGN MOVEMENT, for revealing wrong doings of shameless politicians. Shameless because they are using the people's money just to advertise their names. They shamelessly put their names on the projects that are supposedly owned by the people. School buildings, waiting sheds, bridges, overpasses and even public toilets are filled with politicians names.

REMEMBERING JESSE

This "epalism"of the politicians is one of the concern of the memo issued by the late Sec. Jesse Robredo of DILG. In this memo, putting names on government owned projects are being discouraged. I've been to the city of Naga in Camarines Sur and I didn't observed any structure that has Jesse's name on it. He was very transparent in every transaction of his office. A very down-to-earth man who treat every constituents equal. Always fair and just in his decision. And always for the good of the people.

In this coming elections, may the virtues and values of Jesse be our guide in filing up our ballots. I know there are lot of Jesses out there that needs your vote. Just don't be fooled by disguising trapos and don't be blinded with those trapos gold offerings.

Goodluck to all of us.

Thanks, Sir Jesse!

SULTAN KUDARAT: Unplanned Visit in a Muslim Inspired Architecture

2012-10-03T04:16:00.001-07:00

My itinerary does not include Isulan, the capital of Sultan Kudarat, fortunately, there's no other way going to our destination but through this town. We were heading then to Lake Sebu to conduct an ocular inspection on the proposed venue for an upcoming meaningful event at the same time to explore other possible places. After the orientation of newly recruited job seekers, we departed Kidapawan City at around 2 o'clock in the afternoon bound for Lake Sebu. Its my first time to travel on that part of the area and I have also heard some negative impressions on the road we were about to travel. So, we solicited some advise for the most appropriate and safest way possible. We were told to meet Louie, a middle manager in Tacurong City, who will guide us to Lake Sebu.

After passing through the towns of Makilala, Tulunan, Datu Paglas and Pres Quirino, we finally reached the city of Tacurong at around 4 pm. We waited for him at the Jolibee Tacurong beacuse this is the most familiar venue for "eye-balling". After few minutes, Louie arrived. As we travel, we heard a lot of stories regarding the area he handles. He handles Sultan Kudarat and Maguindanao Provinces. Although there are so many good things to do and place to go in the area, most of his stories were about violence (insurgencies). He recalled how their clients were unable to go home after a meeting because they were caught in a crossfire between MILF and government forces. But after all the negative stories, Sultan Kudarat is still beautiful province to explore. Sadly, I don't have much time to stay on this place.

On our way to Lake Sebu, we passed by the Capitol of the province in Isulan. Travel blogger instict, we stopped and and capture images of the Muslim inspired architecture.

This is for those who do not know who Sultan Kudarat is.

NICE PLACE FOR NIGHT-OUT IN TACURONG

It was already dark when reached Lake Sebu. We decided not to travel to Davao given the situation and much better if we trave during daytime for security reasons. Also, the driver was already tired. So, we went back to Tacurong and spent the night in Louie's place. To have a better sleep, we decided to go out and sip some beer. Louie brought us to a little bar with live band, Barrio Cinco. The place was so cool and safe. We enjoyed jamming with the performing band.

DAVAO: Into a World War II Remembrance

2012-09-09T05:20:00.000-07:00

World War II left the Philippines with so many remembrance and one of them is to be found here in Davao City, The Japanese Tunnel. A man-made cave made by the Japanese Imperial armies during the Japanese Occupation. This tunnel not only served as strategical camp for the Japanese, but also for communication and safe transport. Originally, the tunnel stretch up to several kilometer long with several outlets but due to natural phenomena like earthquake, some part of the tunnel collapsed. What remained now is the hundred and fifty meters tunnel.

This part of the tunnel was the Japanese place of worship. The controversial Golden Buddha was placed here together with the gold bars and other Japanese treasures. Today, a replica of the largest golden of Buddha was placed here for the information of tourist.

This part of the tunnel served as the meeting room. This is the place where the officers meet and do the planning. A small escape route was strategically made in this if in case they will be surprised by the enemies.

The next room inside the tunnel is the Armory. This is where the guns and ammunition was stored.

Stalactites are started to be formed in the tunnel.

PAGLALAKBAY

2012-09-03T03:11:00.000-07:00

Ang paglalakbay ay napakagandang karanasan

Na kahit salapi ay hindi kayang tumbasan.

Samu't sari ang iyong mararamdaman

Sa iba't ibang lugar na iyong tinutunguhan.

Sa byahe ay marami kang matututunan,

Mga bagay na ngayon at doon mo lang nalalaman

Marami ka din makikilalang tao at kaibigan,

Na iba't iba ang pananaw at antas ng katayuan.

Ang paglalakbay ay medyo may kahirapan,

Minsan di mo alam ang mangyayari sa iyong pupuntahan.

Pero kahit ano pa man ang kahihinatnan,

Sa byahe ay punong-puno ng kasiyahan.

Ngunit sa kabila ng mga bagay na ito,

Maraming lugar man ang napuntahan mo.

Gaano man kaganda at kasaya dito,

Hahanap hanapin mo pa din ang pinagmulan mo.

Matulog ka man sa magagagarang higaan,

O sa simpleng bahay na iyong masisilungan,

Iba pa rin ang iyong mararamdaman,

Kung ang ulo mo ay nakapatong sa sariling unan.

Sa paglalakbay ang pakiramdam ay masaya at makulay

Pero wala ng sasaya pa pag ika'y nasa iyong pamamahay.

Kapiling ng pamilya na saiyo'y nagbibigay buhay,

Pagmamahal at kasiyahang walang kapantay

DAVAO CITY: Smiles of Kadayawan Festival

2012-08-23T05:40:00.001-07:00

Madayaw" , a warm and friendly greetings that is full of respect and admiration, is where the Kadayawan Festival got its name. Dubbed as the "King of Festivals", Kadayawan Festival is an annual thanksgiving celebration for bountiful harvest in the city of Davao. On this year, 2012, Davaoenos are celebrating their 27th year of Kadayawan Festival with a theme "10 Tribes, 1 Vibe". This year celebration gives an emphasis in the unification of all the tribes and its descendants that occupied the city, then and now. Despite cultural differences, tribes are still bound on a duty to make Davao City a peaceful and harmonious place to live.

It's been a long time desire (since I start blogging) to personally witness this celebration in order to answer some questions I have for myself. One, why this festival tagged as the "king of festivals", second, how grand is this celebration compared to other festivals all over the country. So, I don't let the opportunity to pass me by. This is my first time to witness and celebrate Kadayawan festival.

Before I go out in the busy streets of the city, I watched first the ongoing activities on the television. It seemed just like an ordinary celebration. Jammed vehicles every where, tangled people you encounter, long and tiring walking and most of all, intense heat of the sun are some of the obstacles that pushing me back home.

One of my friend ( a crowd-hater) even discouraged me to proceed, but the determination was there overpowering the negative vibes for the sake of the ten tribes. After a long walking under the heat of the sun (without anything to cover) I reached San Pedro and city hall area where the presentations was held. " Hindi Mahulugan ng Karayom sa dami ng tao", that's how I described the scene I encountered. If I only knew, I should have been here earlier. I didn't find a good view of the presentations, that's were the price of being late. Hehehe.

But I can't let it spoil the moment. I go around the streets and found these beautiful and relaxing smiles of Kadayawan Festival.

FROZEN TIMES: My 7 Super Shots

2012-08-01T21:24:00.000-07:00

I already learned about this 7SUPERSHOTS series about a couple of months ago. A chained-post that was started by Hostelbrookers.com last January of this year. This activity aims to showcase and share 7 best shots of every blogger. In my observation, most PTBs were already tagged and shared theirs. I already seen several posts from my fellow travel bloggers, their shots were so amazing!. So when Francis Balgos of Pala-lagaw tagged me I was hesitant to do my own version. But there's no harm in trying so I tried to assemble mine but due to so some unfavorable situations and interruptions, it took a long time for the completion. But anyway, I just made it and here's my version of 7 SUPERSHOT..

TAKES MY BREATH AWAY...

"OVER THE TOP"

Climbing at the top of People's Park in the Sky Tower at Tagaytay, Batangas and took this image was literally breathtaking. In this image is the highway from downtown Tagaytay to People's Park.

MAKES ME SMILE....

"RECYCLING"

These animals mastered the art of recycling. This was taken from Zoobic Zafari where wild pigs eating the"by-product" of an ostrich.

MAKES ME DREAM...

"TRANQUILITY"

During busy and hectic days no need to go somewhere to unwind, just take a look at this picture then close your eyes, just imagine this place in Kopiat Island in Mabini, Comval Province and you will be relieved with your stress. Soothing quiet place with matching nature effect is all I can wish after a hard day's work.

MAKES ME THINK...

"BABY ON BOARD"

Taken from the port of Cebu . This Badjao mother makes her child a prop just to make her more pitiful so that more kind-hearted passenger would spare them some coins. This photo really hit me between the eye. It emphasizes how hard life is but there's no reason for quitting.

MAKES MY MOUTH WATER...

"JOHN, PAUL, GEORGE & RINGO"

For some, this will not only make their mouth to water, but most likely more water together with some indistinct materials from their stomach will explode out of their mouth if they try to taste this one. But for me, it's common. I love exotic food. I always try every time I found one. Challenging myself as if I am joining the Fear Factor. Rhinoceros beetle is one of the delicacies in LaoPDR.

TELLS A STORY...

"LOVERS QUARREL"

It's twilight time when we arrived on the other side of Mt. Bagarabon beach resort somewhere in Surigao City. Aside from the setting sun, silhouettes of my friends captured my attention.

MAKES ME PROUD OF...

"TAHO VENDOR"

Golden sun welcomed me during dawn at the port of Pliar, Sorsogon after heart-pounding travel from Samar.

And that was my 7 super shots though they do not look like "super". I made the 7 SUPERSHOTS of my fellow blogger, especially the one who tagged me, inspirations to enhance my skills and capture more captivating photos next time. And to continue this series, I would like to tag the following bloggers:

Jeffrey Rilles of Traveling Morion , Larry Barcoma of Mi Amigo Web ,Jona Bering of Of Stories and Storied Place , Ryan Mach of Pinoy Wandering Boy and Gladys of UntiedEscape ...

....to share their 7 super shots.

FOOD TRIP: Ibos of Laguna

2012-06-28T18:48:00.005-07:00

It's midyear planning once again here in CMDI. Reporting of accomplishments, projecting targets, scheduling of trainings and mind-breaking financial analysis for the sustainability of the institute as we enter the final half of the year. But this is not about that, this is about a kind of food we shared as the planning going on. Tuesday afternoon during our break time, Tita Precy offered us "ibos" for snack. For me, this is not that very delicious food, but what makes this food very special for me, besides this is my eldest son's favorite, are the childhood memories associated with these. Everytime I saw an "ibos" , automatically my childhood memories flashes back and how this simple food became part of my life.

"Ibos" are made from sticky rice or "malagkit rice", coconut milk and a little bit of salt. This is not so difficult to cook but what makes the preparation of ibos challenging is the making of its wrappings. Wrappings are made of skillfully crafted coconut leaves. This native food is never been absent on food preparations during fiestas on the countryside especially on my province in Bicol. This can be served anytime of the day but mostly this is serve during breakfast or snack. This is best served with "latik" or

TAGUM: Where You Find the Biggest Rosary

2012-06-03T02:57:00.000-07:00

DAVAO CITY: Around San Pedro Cathedral

2012-05-17T05:37:00.000-07:00

This is San Pedro Cathedral, considered to be the oldest church in the city. According to history, this church was initially built on the year 1847 during the Spanish occupation in the region. The church was named after the name of the first pope, St. Peter, who also was the patron saint of Davao. This historical structure and Davao City's premier landmark is located at the corner of San Pedro and Claro M. Recto streets. What makes this church unique is its structural design. Unlike other churches, this church has distinctive curve frontal design. Another structures that catches people's attention are the beautifully designed bell tower beside the church and the torch-like structure infront of the church.

I am here to attend a mass and to explore the area as well. Its my first time to be here on a Sunday afternoon that's why I was really amazed by the scenario I saw here. There was plenty of people inside the church attending mass but it's just one-third of the number of people outside the church's premises. There are vendors all over the area selling variety of foods and dry goods. I even took a "kwek-kwek" (a deep fried hard-boiled duck egg wrapped in a orange-colored flour mixture) with matching "guso"(seaweeds) and cucumber after the mass. But you know, despite of lot of vendors and people in this place, garbage are really on its proper place. I really admire the people of Davao.

On the other side of the church you find the city hall of Davao. And beside the city hall is the Osmena Park. This is the where Davaoenos go before and after attending mass.

KOPIAT ISLAND: Taking Advantage of Labor Day

2012-05-02T03:44:00.000-07:00

It's Labor day. After long and laborious weeks it's time to reward myself a treat. I was in Tagum City during the Labor day and I was thinking of what to do and where to spend that 1-day holiday when unintentionally, I came to this island. At first I planned to go back to Davao City where I can spend the holiday, but somebody mentioned about an island where they have their previous outing. This gave me an idea not to go back to Davao, instead I asked my colleagues here in Tagum to go to a nearest beach. Someone suggested that we should go to Kopiat Island in Compostela Valley. Without further questions and thinking, the group agreed with the suggestion. And there was it, a day-long vacation at Kopiat Island.

It was 8 in the morning when my friends went to the market to buy some foods to be brought to the beach. Because of limited time, they prefer to buy raw foods and just cook there at the island. We left Tagum at around 930 in the morning and reach the island at around 10:30.

KOPIAT ISLAND

On Davao gulf just beside the town of Mabini in Compostela Province, there you can find the Island of Kopiat. This 87-hectare island that is surrounded with powdery white sands is considered to be a wildlife habitat which is a part of the Maco-Mabini Protected seascape and landscape. Blue-greenish clear water welcomes you on this beautiful island. No people inhabiting the island since there is no source of power in this place. Although this island was not being exploited, there some disturbances and alteration of natural habitat. There are structures like concrete and light-material-made toilets were built on this island. Also there were table and benches for rent. Garbage also started to proliferate.

HOW TO GET THERE:

From the city of Tagum you can ride a PUJeepney bound for Mabini for 25Php. Just tell the driver to drop you off at Barangay Pindasan in Mabini. At Pindasan, you will now ride a tricycle or single motorcycle (habal-habal) to bring you to the port going to Kopiat Island. From Pindasan port, It will take about 10 minutes ride on a pumpboat for 30Php back and forth(also depends on the number of passenger).

Pindasan Port going to Kopiat Island.

Island's view from the pumpboat.

Table and benches for rent for 100Php.

You can take a ride around the island for about half an hour.

More jellyfishes are to be seen during afternoon.

CAGAYAN DE ORO: A Mother's Story

2012-04-26T20:02:00.000-07:00

I am here at Cagayan de Oro city for another task to do. To train and enhance knowledge and skills of some employee about customer service. It was actually my second time to visit this city. Aside from the main objective why I am here, another purpose was to visit famous landmarks of the city especially the St. Agustine Cathedral. I want to add this church on my collection of Century Old Churches in the Philippines. So, after I accomplished my task, I visited the church and took some images. While I am taking some photos around the church, an old candle vendor woman approached me and asked if I wanted to buy some candles. I told her that I will buy later after I finished what I am doing. After hearing what I've said, a hopeful smile was drawn on her face. She patiently waited unlike other vendors that keeps on insisting and sometimes makes you irritated. I am a soft-hearted person and I really can relate to these kind of people because I was also exposed in poverty and experienced how is it to be "less-fortunate". This made me kept my promise to the old woman.

THE CANDLE VENDOR

After I finished taking photos around the church I sat beside the candle vendor, bought some candles and began the conversation. I don't know, but there's a force within that was pushing me to know much about this old lady. Maybe because inside me was searching for something that's impossible to find, so there was the eagerness. I know it's not proper to directly asked her, so I began our conversation asking about what she knows about the church, activities during feast of St. Agustine, etc. Then I began asking about personal matters. She said she sells candles for the almost five years. A mother of two daughters who was left by her husband for another woman. Unfortunately, her daughters have shared the same fate with her. Both of them were also a single mother. And the more difficult part was when her daughters decided to leave their children to her to work in Manila. That made her a grandparent and at the same time, mother of three children. She accepted the responsibility of raising her grandchildren in the hope of getting financial support from their mothers. But after a long period of time, no one of her daughter fulfilled the promised financial support. Later, she learned that they have again live-in partners.

Raising of three children was too difficult for her considering her "hand to mouth" situation in life. Everyday she always thinking of what to provide on her grandchildren. She haven't gone to school because of poverty so she cannot find a better job. Once she tried to be an all-around housemaid, but not for long because no one will take care of her grandchildren. Until she became a candle vendor. Despite of these difficulties she never gave up. Not in her wildest imagination to abandon her wards. She was so determined to take care of the children no matter what happen.

POSITIVE THINKING

Despite of what happened and despite being less-fortunate, the candle vendor who I didn't get the name, remains to have positive outlook in life. She still remains as a jolly person. According to her, there are some things we didn't want to happen but it happens, but it will not be the reason to gave up and be unhappy.

TWO KINDS OF MOTHERS

I thanked her for the conversation. He thanked me too for the candles i bought and I left before a tear fall down from my eyes. I learned so many lessons on that little conversation. Her story shows us the two kinds of mother. One, the mother who doesn't care for her child, a selfish one. A heartless one that can abandon her helpless child. Some make poverty a reason to abandon their children, but this in unacceptable reason. They are just selfish. They only think of themselves and their happiness.

The other kind is like this vendor. Despite of difficulties she can never leave her children. She can sacrifice and willing to give herself for the sake of her children. A kind of mother that thinks no matter what happen will never leave her precious child. A mother that always there to protect them against any harm, Who guides them to the right way. A mother that always there in times of trouble to give a shoulder to lean on. A mother who is willing to share her happiness and sadness. A mother that will proudly say, "anak, mahal na mahal kita".

By the way, this story reminds me of my mother too.

Happy Mother's Day!

This is my entry to Pinoy Travel Bloggers' Blog Carnival for the month of May 2012. Theme: A Mother's Day Special hosted by Alvin Sabay of The World Beyond My Walls.

DAVAO CITY: First Impression Lasts

2012-04-19T05:59:00.000-07:00

I am not a Davaoeno and I'm not from Mindanao either but I can say that Davao City, the largest city in the Philippines, is probably one of the most beautiful city I've ever been. I maybe wrong but I may also be right if I say that the connotation " Land of Promise" is referring to the city of Davao.This is my concept of Davao even I have not been here. Maybe one of the reason was this city has less bad publicity unlike other places here in Mindanao.

Aside from being the home of Philippine Eagle and beautiful places and landmarks of the city, what makes Davao more beautiful is the people. Davaoenos are friendly people. This is one place here in Mindanao that I can never feel nervous when going out especially at night. In my own experience since I set foot in Mindanao, every place I go there is always someone telling me not to go out at night, be careful of the people you meet, etc. but here in Davao nobody warned me, in fact people here often invited me to go out. And I haven't saw or observed any trouble for the past months I was here. Smoking ban is strictly implemented here unlike other places that the " no smoking" sign is just a sign.

During Araw ng Davao last March, these images of old Davao captured my attention and I can't resist to take a shot of each displayed picture. I learned from the captions that these images was taken on the different part of Davao then.

Old city hall of Davao

ARTS OF MODERN DAVAO

Davaoenos are also artistic people. These images are some of the arts crafted by Davaenos.

Note: Photos were taken from the display on SM & NCCC mall last March during Araw ng Davao.

NABUA: Summer 2012 Getaway in Bicol

2012-04-17T18:03:00.000-07:00

It's summertime! I am here in my hometown to spend summer with my family. I am most of the time away with them so I want to cope with my absences. Together with my friend, Zaldhie, who was also my neighbor, we planned ahead where to go and what to do this summer. We decided to spend a meaningful summer with our own family alone and not the usual group outing with almost all the people on our zone. We chose not to have a large group outing in order for us to have quality time with our family. In a large group we might divided our attention between friends and family especially when it's drinking session time. I was the one who got home first in Pili, then a couple of days my friend arrived too, by the way, my friend was a computer technician on Abu Dhabi. We also chose not to travel far for this outing for the kids may get tired. So, we come up with a resort around the Municipality of Nabua, the Macagang Resort.

ABOUT THE RESORT

It's good. The resort is complete with amenities. There are three swimming pools for different ages with matching slides. Here you can also find facilities for different kinds of sports like basketball court, tennis court, skateboarding court, mini-golf range, rock climbing wall if you are bored with swimming. There is also a playground for kids. So, you can enjoy all day here.

NEEDS IMPROVEMENT

Although facilities and amenities are good there was also some negative observation on this resort. It's the service especially on ordering your food. We took so long waiting for the food to be served, almost 2 hours more or less! And the crews are not that accommodating.

HOW TO GET THERE

Macagang is just 30 minutes ride from my hometown in Pili. If you are from Naga City, I wll take you around 75 mins to get to Nabua in a bus of van.Transportation is not a problem here.

Zaldhie, liezl, juvy and joy

BULA : A Very Good Friday at Bicol

2012-04-11T23:10:00.001-07:00

In my search of a suitable place for reflection during the Holy Week, I have come to this peaceful and solemn place in Bula, Camarines Sur, The Tanauan Park. During our family visit to my in-laws in Brgy. Bagumbayan someone opened a suggestion to go to the park. I've been to this park long time ago, I think it's way back 1995, so there's that excitement to be back on this place. I would like to see the changes during those past years.Without planning and more talking and before our kids gets bored, we went to this place with my sisters and brother -in-law.

ABOUT TANAUAN PARK

Tanauan Park is a peaceful and solemn place located on the mountainous part of Bula in Camarines Sur, just 15 mins from the town proper. Peaceful in the sense that this place is far from the residential and commercial establishments so this is very suitable place if you want to pray or have some reflection. Vendors and playing children are also limited here due to its location. There are two huge statues erected here which serves as the icon of Tanauan, a 20ft high statue of Blessed Virgin Mary and a 10ft statue of the Risen Jesus Christ which can be seen from afar. Since this place is on the top of the mountain, additional attraction that will make you feel relax is the scenery of the Bula and nearby towns from higher perspective.

Tanauan is accessible to any kind of vehicle. If you don't have a service vehicle, single motorcycle for hire are very much available to get you to the park.

Scenic View of Mount Asog of Iriga City

Statue of Blessed Virgin Mary

Agony in the Garden

A good place for reflection.

St. Michael the Archangel

Risen Lord

COTABATO: Biggest Mosque in the Philippines

2012-03-16T09:30:00.002-07:00

I heard a lot about Cotabato since I was a small kid. It will be difficult to erase that name in my memory for a song by the famous local band, Asin, always reminds me of a place called "Cotabato". The first line of the song goes something like this.."Ako'y isinilang sa isang bayan ng Cotabato...". Lot of negative stories have been told regarding this beautiful city. Some people even connoted the city as a place of violence. But for me, this place is like just a place anywhere in the country where violence also can exist. Maybe events here are just being exaggerated. If you watch the news on tv, some places have even more violence compared to Cotabato. Some stories relates the violence to conflict between Muslims and non-Muslims long time ago. Christianity and Islam are the major religions in Cotabato. Religion differences can also be blamed of the conflicts between Cotabatenos. No Cotabatenos want their city to be tagged as one of the violent places, neither Christians nor Muslims.

BIGGEST MOSQUE IN THE COUNTRY

Islam is the more dominant religion in Cotabato, so you can see Mosques anywhere in the city. Mosque serves as the place of worship of Muslims. And here in Cotabato you will find the biggest mosque in the country, the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque.

The main entrance of the Mosque.

AROUND THE CITY

The ORC is the place where most tourists and visitors go. Here you can find dry goods that represent culture and traditions of Cotabato.

Hills and Mountains of Cotabato

PHILIPPINES: Collection of Century Old Churches

2012-03-10T22:55:00.001-08:00

Sta. Monica Parish @ Pan-ay, Capiz, 1774

Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion in the Philippines. Almost 80 percent of it's population are Roman Catholics. This is due to Spanish colonization and influence as they occupy our country for about 333 years. Along with the religion they brought are the churches which are considered to be the "House of God or Worship". Churches are scattered all over the country, most of them are historical. Historical in the sense that they were not only built for over a hundred years now but most churches were made as refuge during natural disaster, and war. Some churches served as protection from pirates. Some church were beautifully built while some were bounded with simplicity. Churches also have different interesting stories behind them.

Before, I don't have much interest on collecting images of churches in the country but as I am scanning all photos I've taken from the past travels, I noticed that there are lot of pictures with church as subject. So, I decided to compile them into one post. Here are some example of those churches....

LUZON:

St. Rose of Lima Church @ Bacacay, Albay, 1660

San Agustin Church @ Bay, Laguna, 1802

Our Lady of Assumption Parish Church @ Guinobatan, Albay, 1688

Immaculate Concepcion Chruch @ Manila, 1581

St. Paul Church @ Vigan, 1574

St. John the Baptist Church @ Camalig, Albay, 1842

St. John the Evangelist Cathedral @ Naga City, 1595

St. Gregory the Great Cathedral @ Legaspi City,1834

St. Vincent Ferrer Parish Church @ Dupax, Nueva Viscaya, 1835

St. Raphael the Archangel Parish Church @ Pili, Camarines Sur, 1870

St. Dominic Cathedral @ Bayombong, Nueva Viscaya, 1966

VISAYAS:

St. Joseph Cathedral @ Tagbilaran City, 1798

Immaculada Concepcion Church @ Baclayon, Bohol

San Nicolas de Tolentino Church @ Guimbal,Iloilo,1774

St. John de Sahagun @ Tigbauan, Iloilo, 1787

San Roque Parish Church @ Larena, Siquijor

St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, 1754

San Pedro Church @ Loboc, 1602

Santo Tomas de Villanueva @ Miag-ao, Iloilo ,1787

St. Anne Parish Church @ Molo, Iloilo, 1831

San Agustin Parish @ Panglao, Bohol, 1782

St. Francis of Asisi Church @ Siquijor, 1781

MINDANAO:

St. James Parish Church @ Dapitan City, 1871

Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Cathedral @ Dipolog City, 1894

St. Agustine Cathedral @ Cagayan de Oro City, 1845

San Pedro Cathedral @ Davao City, 1847

More churches to com....