Life in the Philippines

Sambo Kojin @ Megamall

2021-07-29T11:53:00.000+08:00

First time trying out Sambo Kojin , a mix of Japanese and Korean dishes, I also noticed some Filipino food being served, So if you are a big eater try out their buffet packages at a discounted rate

The one I went to is at the 3rd floor of the Atrium in Mega Mall.

To prepare myself, I did not eat breakfast coz I was planning there to go there by lunchtime . My first order of business is to dig right in the sushi station. And got me some fresh tuna and salmon

Salmon and tuna sashimi as a warm-up for me before digging into much heavier dishes.

More Japanese foods

Cuts of ham and lechon bely

Beverage station

Kare-Kare

For some Filipino foods, Beef caldereta, kare-kare, Lechon belly are some of the dishes that I tried.

Sadly I wasn't able to take a picture of the Korean foods, I was too lazy to fire up the grill. Overall the experience is ok but not that impressive in my book. But considering the price. It is a bargain.

Aling Lucing Sisig

2021-07-19T08:28:00.007+08:00

Featured in Anthony Bourdain's show No Reservation, I always wanted to try out the so-called original Sisig from Aling lucing's. I had the chance when we did a road trip going to Clark airbase.

It is about lunchtime and many hungry diners are flocking in groups. Parking would be a problem since there is no designated parking area, you will be parking your vehicle by the roadside.

Aling Lucing modified the local dish Sisig, which gave birth to the modern-day Sisig, her version took advantage of the pig's head that Clark airbase used to throw back then. So we can say that this is the birthplace of the Sisig we know and loved.

The original version does not have a fresh egg on top, most of us are familiar with having an egg mixed with the grilled pork face. We ordered 3 servings of Sisig, pork barbeque, grilled catfish, and tofu with pork( tokwat baboy).

I can say that the food is worth the long travel, Sisig is so good and I like all of the dishes we ordered. Food though is a bit expensive, but reasonably priced.

The verdict, I would definitely come back for more, Would I recommend it? A big yes. So when in Pampanga please do give it a try and experience eating the original Sisig.

First time trying out Balbakwa

2021-04-24T10:32:00.004+08:00

I was at Don Antonio Quezon city, specifically at Holy Spirit drive, I arrived early for my 9:30 am appointment. So decided to get something to eat, noticed too many riders at one corner, what's the fuzz all about and did see a small makeshift eating place and the name is Mami heat. Serving different broth made up of cow innards.

Being fan of the "Matang baka" (Cow's eye) and so decided to order one, but sadly it is still being prepared and still cooking. Intrigued by the name itself " Balbakwa" , I ordered one.

A mixture of beef fat, chopped innards and a spicy broth to complement the mixture

For only Php 80, you get a serving of rice and a bowl of Balbakwa. A must try in my book, overall I really did enjoy the eating Balbakwa , the gritty environment being at the side of the road , makes the overall experience a kind of an adventure.

Tamashii nation at Festival mall featuring Voltes V

2021-03-01T08:42:00.003+08:00

Tamashii recently had an exhibit at the second floor Festival mall Alabang, featuring Voltes V and other Japanese character.

A life size figure of Voltes V as the main attraction

It displays Voltes V robots that can be ordered online, These are collectible items and are expensive

Click on the link for the full video

Boso Boso old church

2021-01-26T10:02:00.001+08:00

One of the most visited place in Tanay is the old Boso Boso church that was built in 1669. It survived the test of time it was destroyed during the Japanese occupation and was restored in 1995. Going there is to go through Marilaque highway.

Then passing through the entrance going to Boso Boso road, during the time we went there several road constructions has been ongoing .

The church is roughly 1 to 2 km from the main highway.

You can feel the rich history of the place, a local told me that the church is a frequently visited by tourists.

Food vendors are found within the vicinity

So when in Antipolo, try to visit this old historic church.

Hinulugang Taktak

2020-01-28T10:16:00.003+08:00

One of Antipolo's iconic destinations, the curiosity brought about by how it derive its name, ("taktak" pertains to a bell that was thrown "hinulog" into it), and it being included in the song "Tayo na sa Antipolo") took me to this place.It is about 1.7 kilometers from the Antipolo Cathedral and can be accessed through the Taktak road. This was how it looked like when we arrived at the spot. This recreationalarea has been under rehabilitation for years and due to the oils spill in 2015.

The government exerted extra effort to protect and restore this important piece of history.It was evident though that there were problems with the trash and nearby waterways but the falls itself was a sight to behold. It will definitely take years to totally restore it to how magnificent it was before.

The overall area is nice but not as spectacular and I'm hoping for better improvements in the years to come. The water still have this pungent odor and I think that's the biggest problem they have to deal with. I also wish that, aside from being in awe with the sight of the raging falls, it will be a great idea to put other activities in for children and adults to enjoy. As for now, it is still worth the visit as still is one of the most peaceful and relaxing place I have ever been, a wonderful oasis in Antipolo.

Daranak falls in Tanay Rizal

2020-01-22T14:05:00.002+08:00

Rizal province has been known for spectacular attractions and leisure activities ready for their guests to ; an adventure they will never forget. And since it's just 20 kilometers away from Manila, local and foreign visitors alike would flock the array of nature spots in Rizal. They have an an art museum for art enthusiasts, enigmatic caves, historical dams, and amazing falls. One of them is this famous Daranak Falls.

Daranak Falls is positioned at the foot of Tanay mountains. It is surrounded by lush vegetation and cascading rivers and ponds. Entrance fee is P50.00 (as seen above) and they offer picnic sheds and picnic tables for family gatherings and barbecue get-together parties.

You can take a dip, swim and bond with your family and friends in their majestic waterfalls. For nature photo enthusiasts, there is a trail that leads to another waterfall. This is where the Filipino sitcom "Okay Ka Fairy Ko" had their shoots for their program.

They have a small canteen inside where you can buy food but it's better (and cheaper I think, specially for groups) to just bring their own food.

When you need a quick getaway, have a cool dip to save you from the heat, or to simply have a chill time, I'd still say Daranak Falls is one of the nice places to go.

Taal Volcano, 1/19/2020

2020-01-20T08:26:00.001+08:00

Visited Tagaytay again to catch glimpse of Taal volcano. Bellow is an image I got imaging at Picnic groove.

Double Rainbow while travelling at Theresa Rizal

2020-01-17T01:14:00.002+08:00

I got this beautiful image while travelling going to Lucban Quezon, used Samsung S10 plus to capture its beauty

Going to Tagaytay to image Taal Volcano venting ash

2020-01-15T10:25:00.000+08:00

A day after the initial venting of steam and ash from Taal volcano, me and my friend decided to go to Tagaytay which is a safe distance from Taal volcano. So the plan is to take some images of this volcanic activity. Having sub 400cc motorcycle , we took the Aguinaldo highway route. Travelling is bit difficult brought about by volcanic ash, making visibility hard.

A view of Taal volcano spewing ash and steam

Arriving in Tagaytay, we can't find any open restaurants. No electricity and no water supply in the whole city, almost as if it is a ghost town literally.

Angkas riders giving free surgical masks

Ash deposits

A video of the road condition in Tagaytay

more ash deposits along the road

We found a good vantage point to take pictures, arriving at around 4 pm and sunlight is at its low. We still able to get descent enough images to post. We are planning to try to take better pictures next week and try to arrive much earlier, Taal Volcano is best to image early in the morning.

dusty and tired but worth the travel

Eating at Buddys in Lucban, buying lucban longganisa

2020-01-09T16:28:00.005+08:00

Our second trip to Lucban Quezon! It was all because of our craving for their original longanisa. During our first trip, we were more focused on the sights that we'd see. This time, our goal is solely to have another bite of their local delicacy. Maybe it"s the garlic flavor in it, could've been the spices that go with it. Either way, it was an unplanned ride that we're glad we took.

So, our feet took us to Buddy's restaurant. It was the spacious one we found so far in the area and a lot of people lined up for their seats; a sign that they serve good food! Our first choice is of course the classic longanisa, a dozen of it (you can actually order uncooked longanisa as well, for pasalubong). Next was the habanera, a combination of menudo flavored ground pork with potatoes and egg. I can't quite distinguished the exact taste lolz but it"s delicious! We also treated ourselves with their Pancit Habab. It's like pancit canton with a twist as you pour some vinegar on the noodles when you eat it. It was a bit odd for me at first but it surely blended well with the habab taste! Lastly, we were so thirsty and chose the pandan cucumber juice as its refreshing green color caught our eye. Verdict? Everything they served tasted heavenly!

After a well deserved lunch, we found this other restaurant that sells Longanisa as pasalubong. They have this really nice mini bayongs to put your orders in to. The longanisas were sold by the dozens, choose for the standard size priced at 80 pesos or the jumbo size at 180 pesos. We chose the latter and we're glad we did. That ended up our Quezon adventure, at the moment at least. For I know that we will be regulars of this place.

Padi's Point Antipolo

2020-01-09T09:20:00.000+08:00

I remember Padi's Point as elevated huts where my friends and I can unwind, drink, enjoy the view and savor the cold gusts of wind. Well, that's how I pictured it in my mind more than 30 years ago, it was an awesome place even back then!

This is how it looks like at present. It had gone massive changes from how I imagined it to be but the changes are so apt to the millennials of today.

Wide elevated restaurant with a view to behold! At first, we thought we could readily sit in these situated tables as soon as the last customers finish their meals or had enough selfie pics and relax time; it turned out that other customers are lined up before us so they can have that coveted seat as well, whew!

They have great menus, comparable with the other shops you'd usually go for a night out. They have festive menus and we indulged ourselves in plates of crispy pata, tofu with onion leeks and oyster like sauce, and rice to match our appetite.

What do we think? Well, my honest review would be: the place is fantastic because of the amazing view but it could've been better. The coveted tables are so few and a lot of customers want to experience having those seats as they eat and take selfies with their families and friends. Maybe they could come up with a better strategy than lining up the customers (like in their mind? lol!) in such a way where you won't know when your turn will come. Most of us ended giving up the idea and just ate our bitterness away. The food was superb so that's a substantial enough consolation for others who want to visit the place. They have seats outdoors as well to cater to either smoking customers or big groups that can't be accommodated in their indoor space due to space. Verdict? recommending mainly because of the view. The food is comparable with the nearby shops along the area so you have other choices if view ain't in your number 1 curiosity.

Crepeman in Lilac

2020-01-09T08:47:00.000+08:00

After a satisfying dinner at Padi's Point Antipolo, (I had this trip included also in a separate blog, go check it out.) Lou has been complaining of a dessert to complete her meal.I felt obliged as she's gonna be here for just a week and I've been curious of a shop along Lilac in Marikina that seems to have delectable crepe menus. And off we went to Crepeman Marikina branch.

It was a neat shop that could serve around 8-9 small groups or couples. They also have a seat outside for customers who smoke.

It was surprising to find out that their crepes are not solely the dessert-type sweet ones. They have crepe menus similar to a sandwich meal, it's just that they make use of crepe and not breads (imagine the image of shawarma or the Nan that they serve in Indian curry, or clubhouse served in Nan not white bread.) They also offer breakfast menus served in rice and filipino traditional dishes such as longanisa, hotdogs, ham and eggs among others.

I'm fascinated with antiques and old memorabilias. And their display caught my eye; an old radio, polaroid camera neatly mixed with the modern displays in their shop.

Lou ordered caramel banana crepe in whipped cream plus a coffee to balance the sweets she'll indulge herself in.

Lou loved the sweet blend of caramel, banana and whipped cream filling in her crunchy-prepared crepe served in metal stands. I think we would definitely visit it again when we can. The place is small but cozy, and the ambience is homey, I recommend it to small groups or couples looking for a sweet bite or for simply famished groups who likes homey atmospheres in their dining destinations.

Calinawan cave

2019-09-10T19:51:00.000+08:00

Located in Tandang Katyo of Tanay, Rizal Calinawan Cave is a natural multi-layered cave that was said to have been discovered in 1901. It had served as a shelter of guerilla warriors during the Philippine-American War and the Japanese during World War II.

The passageway through the cave was narrow and the caving system has 7 layers. The first 2 layers is the "Easy Trail", a 150 meter walk while the 3-5 layers, are the "Hard Trail", and will involve a lot of crawling. The 6-7 layers would be difficult to traverse, and takes about 7 days to finish; they are permanently inaccessible, from when the tunnels were bombed by Japanese soldiers. These trails lead to Montalban, Rizal. Its name is derived from the word "linaw", meaning clear, as apt as to what took place in history because it's the place where the Japanese and the Americans settled their disputes.

The entrance fee costs 40 pesos while it will take another 200 pesos for tour guide. It was a challenge to take a hike on these trails, the sight of the stalactites and stalagmites are something to look forward to; Having a tour guide is also helpful as it will give you a deeper insights on the rich history that happened in this cave. They also explained how the stalactites and stalagmites are formed. The natural reserve and the mystery inside a cave as enormous are one of the wonders in the history of our country that has left a trail that we can take a peek to from time to time.

La Mesa Eco Park

2019-09-05T09:22:00.000+08:00

It's a date with nature, our weekend theme as we visited the La Mesa Eco Park located right in the heart of the city. In spite of the insanely polluted environment of the city, there's this place were you can be surrounded by tall trees and breathe fresh air! Eco Park is located in Quezon City with its aim to promote the greens even in the busiest parts of the country.

Butterfly Haven

Swimming pool

Souvenir Shops

Bike rentals

Amphitheater

As you can see the above above pictures, there are tons of activities to do in La Mesa Park. They also have zip lining, boating and a place for picnics to enjoy with your friends and family. We mostly did the walking though because what I really wanted was just to enjoy it as organic as it is; to walk its pavements, breathe fresh air, indulge in the sights around me in a relaxed state. And boy, the simplest things indeed are the best things.

Miniforest

Games

Foods

Foods are available for cheap yet it will definitely satisfy your tastebuds! We had a simple barbecue rice served on top of a banana leaf. My friend had lomi as we were rained over during our visit. Both priced for less than a hundred pesos, it had made our tummies full and happy.

Going to the water reserve

This is the stairs that leads you to the La Mesa Dam Reservoir. Taking pictures ain't allowed in this area so just look forward to your actual visit for the grand sight of the dam.

We were rained on

As I enjoyed our walk in Eco Park, I can"t help but wonder how it will be had we preserved the greens around the busy cities as well. Had we planted more trees, we could have been having the best of both worlds; Nature and technology combined.

Antipolo Cathedral

2019-09-03T20:05:00.000+08:00

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of Antipolo, commonly called as Antipolo Cathedral, had been our next itinerary in our road adventure in Rizal. Clad with its rich heritage, this church is more than 450 years old!

What makes it so special is that it is the first church erected in Antipolo, it is also the home of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage; the reason why Antipolo has been known as the pilgrimage city. They say the virgin mother blesses you with safe travels. OFW's and tourists as well as locals take time to pay a visit, specially during Christmas, where you can totally feel the holiday spirit during the mass.

You will be left mesmerized by the history of place. Try and climb the stairs at the back to reach the statue of Our Lady, it brings total peace and serenity to every pilgrim. And as you back home, never forget to buy their delicacies! Talk about suman, kasoy, and kalamay, all available in the small stores nearby. This church is a must visit every time in this city. A place of meditation, reflection and offered prayers for guidance and safety, if you're going on a long trip!

Angono Petroglyphs

2019-08-27T18:03:00.000+08:00

Itching to take my 2 wheels for another ride, I embarked on visiting one of the great spots (IMO) to peek on weekends, the Angono Petroglyphs.

Let's see what I found!

Located in the rear recesses of a shallow cave in Binangonan, it is believed to be the oldest rock art inscription in our country, dating back to the Neolithic period.

Carved in rock formation, it holds a collection of 127 figural carvings engraved on the walls of a shallow cave.

It's like entering a different era as we indulged ourselves on the rock drawings. Experts have been deliberating on whether the art are symbolic representation of the culture or if it is medicinal and religious as ancestors are said to have carved these in order to transfer the sickness of their children onto the limestone wall. For travelers craving for adventure with a touch of history, this place is definitely worth seeing!

Make Marilaque safe agin unity ride

2019-08-22T12:11:00.001+08:00

Pls support for the safety of the motorcycle riding community

In memoriam

2019-08-21T19:07:00.001+08:00

Today is the 36th death aniversary of Ninoy Aquino

photo credit to Inquirer.net

Riding with Jet Lee and Des Buncio

2019-07-31T09:28:00.001+08:00

Sensational riders from Cebu, Jet Lee and Des Buncio, meet and greet at Shell Pugon along Marcos highway last July 30th, Tuesday. We arrived at around 6:30 am, and many riders waited patiently.

Riders from different biker groups gathered together to be with Jet and Des on a fun ride to Marilaque.

Jet Lee arrived around 9 am, and received a warm welcome from fellow riders.

Des Buncio with a fellow rider

Jet Lee and Des Buncio gave their time taking pictures and giving out stickers to their fellow bike enthusiasts.

Jet and her KTM bike

The group took off to Marilaque at around 10am, good thing it stopped raining during the ride.

First destination is going to BNK cafe along Marilaque highway at Sampaloc, Tanay Rizal.

Jet greeted by restaurant staffs

BNK offers delicious meals at an affordable price

After eating, they headed out going to Jariel's peak. The event was a succesful one, everyone had fun meeting and riding with lady riders Jet Lee and Des Buncio.

Visiting the Lion Head

2019-07-20T15:05:00.001+08:00

The Lion's Head, situated along the renowned sharp curves in Kennon Road, has been one of the tourists' and travelers' popular stop overs when they visit Baguio.It's worth to take an extra mile to see it though, and have some souvenir pics as what we did when we has a motorcycle road trip last month.

We took Mac Arthur Highway getting there and rerouted to Kennon Road just to have a peek (and pic!) of the famous Lion's Head. Look up, ain't it worth it to have your pics beside the 40 feet towering statue!

The glimpse of the natural landscapes along the road is also a sight to behold! Souvenir shops can be found within the area as well.

It's just a 15 minute drive from the heart of the city; with its cool breezy weather, it's nice to stop by, take pics and stroll.

Driving via 2 wheels is quite a task, specially when you go to places like Baguio. But reaching your destination and seeing these tourist spots, a new and refreshed feeling will manifest and you's grasp that it's all worth the trip. So, next time you're in Baguio, don't forget tovisit this landmark!

Buying pasalubong going home from Baguio

2019-07-16T09:41:00.001+08:00

We took a 250 plus km road trip to Baguio riding on my Yamaha FZ. Let's charge it to the adventurous side of us, not having enough time, yet took the plunge and stayed overnight, then went back as we're bound to our int'l flights to what -- yes, you got it right, to work as we all need to.
Passing along Marcos highway was exciting as we find lots of stores for last minute shopping (you know how it is to enjoy the place so much you forget to buy pasalubongs? Nothing to worry about it, the stores are everywhere!

Now, for the tidbits of what we chose to buy and what we found as well; first: the items, what are they? They have peanut brittle, lengua de gato, Ilocos cornicks, among others. You'd find a lot more like vegetables and fruits, some key chains and other memorabilia but our family have the sweet tooth so we opted to focus on food.

Never underestimate the stalls along this highway, it's basically a one stop shop and you'd find almost every pasalubong that'd suit your family and friends' taste.

So the next time you happen to visit Baguio, do indulge in the moment. Experience the sights and take lots of pictures; feel and breath the fresh spring air breeze, and don't forget to check out the stalls along the highway just in case you got carried away and missed some pasalubong for your loved ones! Don't worry, be happy, because life is too short not to be, blessings!

Lobster meal in Camden Maine

2019-07-15T08:12:00.001+08:00

My last assignment working as an RN in a skilled nursing facility was in Camden, Maine USA. It's famous for its lobsters; and enticed with the restaurant slogan, I just had to have a taste of Maine - and lobster it is!

I treated myself in one of the local restaurant that serves whole-steamed lobster - freshly taken out of the aquarium - nice!

After satisfying my growling stomach, this is my honest review.

The price: It costs around 25 dollars, served with your choice of side dish. I had french fries and freshly-baked bread. It's reasonable enough considering how lobsters are priced these days. Taste: I am always honest in all the reviews that I make, an obligation to the readers who may plan, at one time or another, to visit Maine and taste their famous lobsters. i think cooking lobster is an art. Whether it be boiled or steamed, timing is everything to be able to bring out their best taste. Am not to judge as I haven't seen the process of how they cooked it, so, let's just say it wasn't my lucky day (or the cook needed more inspiration). It tasted average,not as I expected it to be. I'd give them a tip: lobsters have harder shells during the winter, requiring more time for cooking, and softer shells in summertime which requires less time of cooking.Overall, I gave it a 6/10 rating.

Best Tonkatsu ever...

2019-07-14T13:10:00.001+08:00

Eating authentic Japan gourmet was like shooting the moon; until this day, when I was able to visit the country and have my wish granted , one I thought would take like forever. Finally, it has become a reality, yes!

Tonkatsu is a Japanese dish of pork cutlet coated in flaky panko or breadcrumbs then deep-fried. It is usually served with yellow mustard and a thick tonkatsu sauce. It has a sweet and tangy flavor.

Tonkatsu is a Japanese dish with astounding international appeal, primarily because of its use of high-quality japanese ingredients. I was in awe watching the chef prepare and cook the food right in front of you. Tea is served while you wait for your order. You may also request for water depending on your preference.

Savoring a few bites of the pork, and heaven! The meat literally melts in your mouth, so tender and very tasty. Add that with a very warm and friendly atmosphere.

This is so far the best Tonkatsu dinner I have ever had. It just costed me 20 dollars for the meal. Hopefully I can get to try out some of the other restaurants there the next time I visit.

What can I say with the whole experience? I would vouch that it's worth your travel and your money to visit Japan and realize for yourself how their dishes really taste like. The courteousness of everybody serving you is the reason why the Japanese "Omotenashi" word came up. As for that one, it's another story hahaha! Put this on your bucket list! It's worth every penny I assure you!

Hotel Veniz in Baguio

2019-07-14T08:15:00.000+08:00

Driving from Manila to Baguio on two wheels is one of the essentials in my bucket list. And finally, I was able to do it! You read it right, I did it using my Yamaha Fz 16 motorcycle. It was a 200 plus km ride which I will be posting soon.This is just parts of what we've encountered in the journey. And one is a place to stay as we arrived in Baguio. We chose this hotel called "Hotel Veniz", located in the heart of the city.

As we approached the information in the lobby, we were told of the available rooms they have at the moment. They said that they can show us the rooms first to help us in deciding which one suits us.

We finally chose a twin bedroom. It's originally priced at 1,700 pesos but they offer a discount of 300 pesos that week, so we just paid 1,400 pesos for the night.

The room was spacious and we were satisfied with its price. We joined the beds and it's like having a queen-sized bed as their bed size is wider than the usual single beds, it was a treat! The parking was wide enough and was located at the basement of the hotel.

a view of the city

A buffet complimentary breakfast is served from 6am till 10 am. The food was very good and satisfying, it'll surely make you full and ready for the busy day of sightseeing!

And just to inform you, rooms are all non smoking rooms. They have a fine of php 500.00 for cleaning fee if the room smells of cigarette smoke upon check out.

a restaurant is open to serve you onnthe 2nd floor

Hotel Veniz is a small but decent hotel in the heart of Baguio. I would definitely recommend it and would personally go back here again, not only for its price but also for the good service this hotel provides. I give it a 7/10 score!