Lawstude's Journeys

Video : White Water Rafting in Davao

2010-03-09T18:48:00.001+08:00

A Weekend of Everything That Flies (2 of 2)

2010-03-07T23:25:00.001+08:00

Part 2 of this series take-off at dusk when light and dark meet. Paragliders from different part of the world perform areal acrobatics on Mount Arayat backdrop. And as if your eyes ain't entertained enough, the street dancers of Candaba Pampanga lighted the ground with a performance lifted from their recent Ibon-Ebon Festival. It was truly a visual treat for everyone as the colors blend in with the fading light.

Paragliders Formation

"Greeting from Up Here"

Air and Land Show

Ibon Ebon Street Dancers

There is even a Boat?

Painted Faces

Dancin' on Stilts

Sun Half-Risen

Glow in the Dark

The night should have been capped with a display of Hot Air Balloons all lined up and glowing in the dark but the wind got stronger making it impossible for the balloons to form. But nevertheless, I still got some shots of those balloons who have managed to form. Seeing those balloons specially the sun balloon all lined-up and glowing must have been a beautiful sight. Well, maybe next year.

A Weekend of Everything That Flies (1 of 2)

2010-03-03T12:23:00.003+08:00

There is something in the air that day... and I don't mean those cheesy stuff of emotional rides and anticipations. But... literally, there is something, err, a lot of things in the air that day.

The 15th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta was held February 11-14 at the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga. It was organized by awesome celebrity pilot Captain Joy Roa of Asian Air Safari (if you do not know him, he has the voice of Paolo Abrera and the face of Lou Veloso).

I drove of early Saturday morning traversing SCTEX but unfortunately, I missed the Hot Air Balloon Flight scheduled very early in the morning. Although I missed the main event, there were other activities that day that will keep your eye in the sky like paragliding exhibitions, ACFC Ultralight / Microlight Aircraft Formation Flights & Flour Bombing, AFP/Civilian skydiving exhibition, helicopter flight display, light aircraft balloon-bursting Competition, Philippine Coast Guard Rescue Demonstration, kite flying exhibitions, paragliding exhibition and the hot air balloon night glow. Having missed the hot air balloon flight, I am keenly anticipating the latter. Here are some shots of the event:

The Weekend Crowd

Daddy's Little Girl

Chopper and Mount Arayat

Fluorescent Marshalls

Colorful Kites

Mini Plane... Show-Off

Parachute Man

Bringing Military Closer to People

Gliding on Air

More on paragliders and amazing show on land and air in part 2 on my next post.

Up, Up and Away!!!

2010-02-26T20:43:00.004+08:00

This is just a teaser...

... airplane and helicopter exhibitions, ultra lights, paragliders, skydivers, RC planes, kites and anything you could throw up in the air...

... coming soon!

San Luis' Caunayan Falls and Stream

2010-02-23T18:59:00.007+08:00

Caunayan Falls in Barangay L. Pimentel is one of the most accessible falls in San Luis, Aurora. It is only a hundred meter walk from a dirt road.

The Falls used to spray strongly from a thick-foliage cliff but El Nino seem to take its toll on this one because the downpour of the water is a lot gentler and thinner. In fact, this has gotta be one of the gentlest falls I have seen.

The falls flow into a crystal-clear stream ringed by sandy bank The pool is shallow making it an idyllic place for a cool swim.

Since the place is very accessible, it is a favorite picnic site for locals of San Luis and the adjacent towns of Baler and Maria Aurora as well. In fact, at the time of my visit, there are several families enjoying their lunch at the area.

Surrounding the Falls and the natural pool are large boulders and stones of different sizes which form part of an excellent water scape in the area. Water from the fool flows into these rocks forming a soothing sound that will make you wanna lie down and sleep.

The thick greenery of the cliff and the hills complemented the natural vibe of the place. Fresh air, clear waters, lovely sight - just amazing.

To go there, hire a jeep or take a private vehicle from Baler town proper to Barangay Real in San Luis, where a short walk from the end of the road near the river will take you to the falls. A motorcycle can take you within a couple of minutes from the falls.

With its vast landscape, San Luis in Aurora Province definitely has lots more to offer. Sadly, I only had limited time to explore the place but hopefully, I could go back there soon to explore more on the alluvial, foothill and mountain landscapes of the place.

To see other amazing scenes around the world, please visit My World here.

Maria Aurora's Millennium Tree

2010-02-19T10:11:00.004+08:00

In a quaint little town of Maria Aurora in the province of Aurora proudly stands a 600-year old Balete Tree that was designated as the official "Millennium Tree" of the Philippines.

Reputed to be the oldest and the largest tree of its kind in Asia, the gigantic trunk of this Balete Tree would take about sixty grown men, holding one another at arm's length, to encircle.

And due to its age, the tree's thick roots have grown above ground like so many solid buttresses, such that various hallows have formed under the tree section.

Many fear a Balete Tree because of its association with underground and dark creatures like white ladies, kapre and impakto. And if you look into the crevices of this tree, you might wonder if there are creatures beneath those holes.

But the way I see it, the only creatures that should be feared there are snakes and maybe frogs if you are icky. And to prove the point that the tree is perfectly safe, one local entered the hollows of the tree and found his way to the top of it. Awesome!

The Millennium Tree is the main draw of the Balete Park in Maria Aurora which is several minute's drive from Baler on mostly unpaved roads. Locals said that the park was once grand and that climbing the tree was prohibited but now, the park is somewhat neglected as proven by vandals and scuttled structures. Hopefully, the grandeur of the park be once again restored and the Tree protected so that it could really stand by its name of a thousand years.

People Watchin' @ Sabang Beach, Baler

2010-02-16T12:27:00.012+08:00

Be it a family spending quality time in the beach... or a couple enjoying play time under the sun... or group of friends having fun at the sea... or surfers doing new tricks with the waves... or a loner wading thru the shores of the beach. People watching is one casual activity that will keep you busy in Sabang Beach.

With its long cemented reef barriers, portions of which have rock benches, the whole stretch of Sabang Beach is certainly fit for people watching. Locals and visitors alike flock this area to witness the notable sunrise of Baler.

On calmer mornings, you can sea troves of people doing their running activities in the sand or just simply enjoying the light waves of the sea.

The waves of Sabang varies with the season. Most of the times, the waves here are not that big, sometimes referred to as "fun waves", so this beach is perfect for beginning and novice surfers.

But during typhoon or when northeast monsoon blows, the waves become bigger and it then becomes a perfect spot for beginner surfers to learn the basics with relative safety from scratches, since most of the beach is sandy-bottomed.

It is also in Sabang Beach where most of accommodations in Baler are located. There is Bahia de Baler 1 and 2, Bay’s Inn Resort, MIA Surf and Sports Resort and Baler Guesthouse and Restaurant. Most of these resorts also offer lessons in surfing but you may just opt to ask some dudes with boards to teach you for less.

If you are not an activity-person and just wanna go to the beach to relax and laid-back, Sabang Beach may just be the right place for you. Although its sand borders from graying to black, its texture is so fine. Waters here are somewhat glassy green that it will not leave sea stains if ever you want to dip in it.

And of course, the sunrise. Sabang Beach prides itself with its picturesque sunrise where the morning sun slowly makes its way up by peaking at Baler's hills and eastern mountains. The morning seascape where the rays of the sun reflects in the sea is just so glorifying.

Since this is my last post in this series about Baler, let me just thank the people of Baler for their hospitality. I would also like to thank the staff of Bahia de Baler 2 for the invite in Dikasalarin Cove. If not for lack of time and the itinerary I have previously made, I would have accepted the invite. Next time, definitely.

Thanks also to Kidlat of batangbaler.net for the additional infos on Baler. I would also like to contribute this post to My World meme. To see other amazing spots, please click here

Sabang's Sea and Sky Scenes @ Baler

2010-02-12T20:49:00.014+08:00

What is your favorite spot on earth? How about on a place where your bare feet touch the sand, that occassionally get wet by the tail end of splashing waves? Where the different display of hues in the sky sooth your weary eyes and where the sound of sea bring music to your ear like this song...

The sea goes on forever
The sky goes on forever
It's all a vast unmeasured shore...

...If you just think about it
The waves are always sighin'...

...The sea birds always cryin'
Where time means nothing anymore...

...If I could I would take up the sea
Join hands with the sky
I'd melt with the shore...

...They're part of all I adore
And all the love we will share
One moment more, ooh, yeah, yeah, yeah...

...Ahh, the sea goes on forever
The sky goes on forever
It's something no-one can deny...

...If they go on forever
And they go on forever
Then why not you and I?...

...Like sea and sky
Sea and sky
Sea and sky

At Sabang Beach in Baler, finding that special spot is easy.

Credits to Dusty Springfields' Song "Sea and Sky". Please check out other amazing sights in My World by clicking here.

Halller Baler

2010-02-09T09:36:00.006+08:00

I have posted a little piece of history about Baler during the Spanish times in my previous post on Ermita Hill. And to continue where I left-off, let me have a break on the beach and sea scenes (well not totally) and post some more history and trivia about Baler coupled with photos of some of Baler's historical structures like the Museo de Baler, Baler Catholic Church and a house that pays tribute to the memory of Dona Aurora Aragon Quezon.

First, a trivia. How did Baler came out? There are several stories on how Baler got its name. In one story, it was named after Balid, a wise and powerful Lakan or Chiefstain who lived in the village in the area. Another story says that it was named after Baled, meaning waves from a dialect spoken by nomadic people of the area such as Dumagats and Tingguians.

The third version is that it was derived from Ibalid meaning to return. There was a story that outsiders asked an inhabitant of the name of the place and that the inhabitant thinking that the stranger was asking where he was going would have said that he was returning to the place where he started from.

The last and the most accepted origin however is that it came from the word Balod which is a large mountain dove which abounded the area. Baler came to be known as the place where the doves came to roost.

And to continue with history, one of the most historical structure in Baler is its Catholic Church. One would not know its deep history by looking at its simple facade but this church was transformed into a fortress of Spanish soldiers against the Katipuneros and American troops.

Just few steps from the Church is a house built as a tribute to honor of Doña Aurora Aragon Quezon, the wife of President Manuel L. Quezon. Madam Aurora was born in Baler and died in an ambush on the mountain roads of Nueva Ecija leading to the province that now bears her name. Some of the couple's memorabilia including a vintage presidential car can be seen in the place.

Now, after an etymology and a piece of history comes the fun part, Baler's drawing power - surfboards. You will see them almost everywhere in Baler, whether it be the real thing parading around the beach or its miniature part in guise of key chains, ref magnets and toys.

For accommodations, you may check out Discover Aurora's hotel listing here. I stayed at Bahia de Baler 2 just in front of Sabang Beach. A modest accommodation with courteous staff. What I like about the place is that each room has a book about Baler written by Edgardo Angara where you can learn just about everything about Baler. Reading the book really complemented the Baler experience.

More of Baler on my next post.

History and Beauty in Ermita Hill @ Baler

2010-02-05T09:42:00.007+08:00

From Sabang Beach where I stayed in Baler, a prominent holiday greetings in neon can be seen at night and this sign can be seen in one of Baler's highest points - the Ermita Hill.

Ermita Hill was developed as Ermita Park. Its hillside vantage offers commanding and scenic views. Northward is the sweep of coastline, while much closer lies the mouth of the river where boats are beached by a village.

The excellent view includes the town of Baler, Sabang Beach, Cemento and Dimadimalangat Islet. Southwards, as viewed from a gazebo, lies another dramatic coast that features a cove and a distant rocky mountainside.

But more than its beauty, this hill is forever engraved in Baler's history. Ermita Hill seems to have been a favored place name for the Spanish missionaries, for whom a vantage point was necessary for spiritual as well as security reasons.

The Hill features a chapel, an ancient viewing point and a tunnel. The spot on which the chapel stands is believed to be the location of a viewing point from which the community of Baler at the delta of the river, received advance warning of incoming threats in ancient times.

In those times, Baler community experienced prevalent raids by the Moros. These raids must have occurred before and after the Spaniard, led by Adelantado Juan de Salcedo, first came in 1572. These raids must have stopped when a permanent garrison of Spanish soldiers was established in Baler.

At present, Ermita Hill is a favorite place for Balerians and tourist alike to just hang-out and maybe have picnics. There is a large ground for outdoor activities and there are several sheds to protect you from the sun. At the back of the park is a mini forest with caged monkeys and wide assortment of trees.

Ermita Hill is located at Brgy. Zabali and covers an area of about two hectares. It is about six kilometers from the town proper via Kinalapan-Cemento road. It is about 10 minute drive (thru tricycle) from the town proper. It can also be reached by traversing the river of Tibag and is more or less 20 minutes walk from Castillo.

Let The Flowers Bloom - Panagbenga 2010

2010-02-03T09:44:00.007+08:00

Other than being a love month, February ushers in one of my favorite Philippine festivities - the Panagbenga Flower Festival in Baguio. Now on its 15th year and amply themed "Celebrating 15 Years of Festival Excellence", this year's festivity promises to be bigger and grander as it aims to solicit more cheers from the crowd.

Calendar of events for this year, (taken from GoBaguio Website) are as follows:

I have witnessed the Grand Street Parade and the Grand Float Parade countless times and have even featured the events of two previous Panagbenga Festivals in this blog. Hopefully, I wish could clear some time to visit Baguio again specially on February 27 and 28 for the Grand Parades.

In any case, let the flowers bloom and enjoy Panagbenga 2010.

Surprisingly Calm Cemento Beach @ Baler

2010-01-30T12:34:00.005+08:00

On my second day in Baler, I ask a tricycle driver to take me to Cemento Beach. Having observed the waves of Sabang Beach the day before, I was half-expecting rowdier waves but surprisingly, the ocean is very calm, thus I wonder, am I in the right place?

After asking some fisherfolks of the place, indeed, I was in Cemento Beach. But where are the waves?

From what I gather, from October to February, the waves here tower to as much as fourteen feet and surfers from Australia, Japan and other European countries frequent the place to surf.

Does climate change affect Cemento Beach as well? Maybe! Fisherfolks I have talked to say that at this time of the year, the waves are usually strong. But since weather has become unpredicable these past few months, they no longer wonder if the ocean occasionally calm down.

With no waves and surfers to see, the best thing to do in Cemento Beach is just wander around and enjoy the view. The calm weather is a treat to the Balerian kids there who enjoy the the beach. They even play around a docked boat on a shore.

The calm weather also is a good opportunity for fisherfolks to catch fishes near the shore. They usually laid their nets just few meters from the shore, leave it overnight and gather the catch next morning.

Cemento Beach is a long stretch of dark but fine sand from the Wharf to the right to a mangrove in the left. There is also a reef that is just 10 minutes boat ride or 40 minute trek from the beach.

Although I did not catch the waves, I still enjoyed my visit here because of the serene view and the hospitable Balerians who I think enjoyed chatting with visitors too.

More of Baler on my next posts.

Hopping in Lukso-Lukso @ Baler

2010-01-27T08:37:00.004+08:00

Another interesting place worth visiting in Baler is Lukso-Lukso. It lies adjacent to Digisit Bay and just few meters away from Baler wharf. Lukso-Lukso translated in English means to hop all over, and this translation amply describes the place.

During low-tide, Lukso-Lukso forms a huge structure of rocks that extends about a couple of hundred meters from the sandy shore unto the deep sea. You can wander around these rocks but you must heed caution because these rocks are really sharp.

Interesting critters abound such as small fishes trapped in the pools formed by craters of the rocks. There are also hermit crabs, clams, starfish and various sea weeds in the area.

Come high-tide, most of the rocks’ surfaces submerge in water. However, some of the tips of the rocks protrude above the sea making them appear like small islets that one can hop-scotch into. But then again, the strong forces of the waves and the sharp rocks will definitely make hopping from one islet to another seem like a bad idea.

Because of the structure of the place, Lukso-Lukso is not safe for swimming or any other sports activity like snorkeling or wading. The rocks here are really sharp so you need sturdy sandals if you want to wander around the place.

To go there, you may opt to hire a tricycle in Sabang or in Town proper and ask the driver to drop you off Lukso-Lukso. It is about twenty minute tricycle ride on a combination of paved and unpaved road.

You may want to ask the driver to wait for you because other than the amazing scenery, there is really nothing much to do there and transport back to Sabang or Town proper could be difficult. As of this writing, there are on-going road constructions there so traveling time shall be reduced once road constructions are finished.

I would like to share this post to my friends at My World meme. To see other amazing places around the globe, please click here.

More of Baler on my next posts...

This Is It Digisit @ Baler

2010-01-21T10:07:00.005+08:00

To continue where I left-off from my previous post, just a few meters away from Pag-asa lies a pleasing little hub known as Digisit (Diguisit). This is another scenic part of Baler that features amazing rock formations and small islets just between the beach shores and the rough sea.

The beach of Digisit has sand that is exactly like sesame seeds in consistency and color. Thou a bit unfit for swimming because of the sharp cut rocks, the place, nevertheless is perfect for sunbathing.

Save for occasional fisherman gathering clams, the place is often deserted. It is easy to find a perfect spot for you to relax and my spot is that little hut at the foot of one of the islet where splashes of waves against the rocks will lull you to sleep.

This is definitely one of my favorite spots in Baler. Everywhere your eyes wander makes a beautiful subject. From the islets in the shore, from the palms and coconut trees just near it, and even the seemingly deserted lone lodging house – the place is just a landscape photographer’s dream realized.

And you would not even realize how time passes by because even the simplest activity such as scrutinizing the colors and patterns of rock formations, and watching the clouds in the blue skies could take forever. This is definitely one place I could stay in all day and not get bored.

Although Digisit is a perfect destination on its own, you may still want to save time to visit other interesting places in Baler that will surely amaze you. I would recommend spending early morning until lunch in this place in combination with Pag-asa and Lukso-lukso.

They say that the best feeling are indescribable and words such as beautiful, exotic and remote would not suffice. But how else can I describe Digisit? The place truly is beautiful, exotic and remote. If words are not enough, then I hope that these photos have spoken for themselves.

More of Baler on my next posts.

Rugged Beauty of Pag-asa @ Baler

2010-01-18T09:50:00.006+08:00

Baler is associated with rugged attractions, with wildness, or at least with the quality of raw, rugged, pristine beauty that also comes with remoteness. The beach and sea-scape of Pag-asa simply exemplified that - a rugged beauty.

So once I have settled my bags and found a lodging place just in front of Sabang Beach, I contracted a tricycle driver to bring me to some of the places I have researched and seen on the net. The first place I visited, and the farthest on my itinerary is an idyllic place with amazing rock and islet structures.

On a combination of paved and unpaved roads, we turned left just before the paved road leading to the forests. A very narrow path lead us to one of the most scenic place of Baler.

The sight is just awesome. Fine, white sand, ending to combination of small and large boulders emptying unto the sea of dark blue waters. Strong waves pounding unto these rocks make this place unswimmable but who cares, the best thing to do there is just sit down, relax and admire its beauty.

The scene does not end there. Standing in the sand, if you look at your back, you will be refreshed with rows of palms and trees. I dream of having a hammock, tie it between two palms and doze-off but there are too much to explore and see.

The place also is one the closest place to Aniao Islets. These are two small but imposing islands jut straight out from the sea like bullets, with shrubs, small trees and other greenery growing on top surfaces.

Kingfishers, gulls and hawks use these islets as lookout points for fish. Towering waves relentlessly pound the base of the formations, challenging even the most intrepid of rock climbers. Hardcore enthusiasts can swim from the shore to the islets but caution should be observed because the pounding of the waves are quite strong.

The best way to go there is by renting a tricycle two-way because it is quite far from either Sabang or the Town Proper. Otherwise, you have to walk a good quarter of an hour before you may sight a passenger vehicle.

More of Baler on my next posts.

To see other amazing places around the world, please visit "My World" here.

Baler's Famous Five "S"

2010-01-11T16:22:00.001+08:00

There is no letter "S" in Baler, an enticing little town in Aurora. But remarkably, five of its major attractions starts with the letter "S". Suman, santan, sabutan, surfing and sunset.

Suman
Suman is a native treat made of steamed sticky rice wrapped in either banana or coconut leaves. It is perfect partner for hot coffee or native chocolate and it can be eaten "as is" or dipped on a refined sugar. Suman in Baler is so famous that most of them are gone by late mornings. A Suman Festival is held every February.

Santan
Santan or Cocojam is made-up of sugarcane juice mixed with coconut milk. Baler has lots of coconut fields so it isn't a wonder that cocojam is one of their pride products. This is a favorite "pasalubong" item in town.

Sabutan
Sabutan refers to weaving craft that relies on the use of indigenous plants for distinctive weaving materials. The forests of Baler offers numerous flora as a source of fiber that are used for products such as hats, mats, decorative and souvenir items.

Surfing
And of course, Baler's most famous "S" stands for Surfing. Surfing is an imported term and activity and considered by afficionados as the best surfing place in Luzon. There are waves all year round but the peak period for consistent good quality waves are from October to February.

More Surfing
Surfing in Baler has gained international prominence because of mid 1970s production of "Apocalypse Now" directed by Francis Ford Coppola. It was said that the crew left their surfing boards in the area and the locals learned the craft. Now, the surfers of Baler are among the best in the country.

Surfed
The surfing photos above were taken in Sabang Beach considered to be the best place for first time surfers and those who want to learn how to surf. Other surfing areas in Baler include the Cemento Reef, Charlie's Point and Lindy's Point.

Sunset at Sabang Beach
Of all the "S" that Baler offers, this one is my favorite. Sunset or sunrise depending on the time of day. There is nothing more relaxing than sitting on the beach and watching the sun go down or waking-up early in the morning watching the sun rise from the horizons. Although thick clouds cover the sun that time, still, the orange hues of rays enveloping the scenic beach with an island backdrop is just so fascinating. Ahh, what a wonderful place.

More of Baler on my next posts.

Danao's Santo Tomas de Villanueva Church

2010-01-08T12:36:00.004+08:00

I passed by this church while riding a bus from Cebu City to Bantayan Island so I took a mental note that I will visit this church on my way back from Bantayan. And that is just what I did. So, from Hagnaya, I ask the conductor to drop me in that beautiful, ancient church in Danao.

The façade of the church as viewed from the highway is just awesome. Faded coral bricks that seem to absorb rather than reflect the rays of the sun define the church from the outside. Looking at the church will instantly made you feel that you are transported back in time.

An arched door in between two arched windows and a line of six white angel statues are prominent features of the church but its main draw definitely are those large off-white coral bricks that made up the façade of the church and its bell-tower.

Santo Tomas de Villanueva Church is considered as one of the finest church buildings in Cebu. The gracious, coral-stone church was built in 1755 and restored from near ruin in 1981. While the interiors are not that fancy, its modern marble finish and its white vaulted ceiling is well worth a look.

Santo Tomas de Villanueva Church

Santo Tomas de Villanueva Bell Tower

Guardian Angels

Thick Coral Bricks

Side View

Church Interiors

Nearby Rizal Park
To go there; take a north-bound bus from Cebu City in the Cebu North bus station. These buses pass through Danao City in about an hour. Get-off at the plaza beside the church because stopping at the road in front of the church is prohibited.

My Top 10 Travels of 2009

2010-01-04T21:55:00.003+08:00

The Year 2009 was a great year of travels for me. I have visited places on my wish list for the very first time and have returned to some places again but on a different perspective. There are trips I made "Lonely Planet" style and there are trips I made jointly with other travel-bloggers. And besides my fave travel-buddy Dong Ho of Eskapo, I was able to meet some of the best in the field of Travel-Photo like Ferdz of Ironwulf, Oggie of Lagalog, Erick of Wanderboy and Allan of Lantaw.

I was also able to meet and go on a trip with awesome Personal Bloggers Benj of Atheista, Ronnie of Monsterboy and Chidmark of Scud in Real Life. I also enjoyed the company of non-bloggers like Kit, Manny, Feigh, Daniel, Adrian and Bluespot.

Great places, delectable food and awesome company more than sum-up my choices for my top travels of 2009 which follows:

However you may look at it, Sagada could be an idyllic hide-away or an adventurer's haven. If you are the laid-back type, you can just unwind at the serene view of the lush mountain or you can just sleep all day undisturbed in the freshest of settings. If you are the adventurous type, you will never run-out of things to do here like trekking Marlboro Country and Echo Valley, caving on Sumaguing, and hiking towards its falls. Sagada was your top choice in the polls and it was also mine.

One of the best islands in the Philippines. Travelers go here for the beach and not surprisingly so because this island has beaches that can rival the most popular ones. Sugar Beach, Paradise Beach and Alice Beach are all worthy to visit but there are other attractions here as well such as the Peter and Paul Church and the Madrilejos Ruins.

Cagbalete Island is so unbelievably beautiful. It has the longest and the widest stretch of fine-white sand beach that I have ever seen. The sunrise there is also amazing. A bonus side-trip in this travel is the Pagbilao Beach. It is almost hidden and truly one of the best beach that I have enjoyed. In fact, I have taken only few shots of this place because I was busy swimming on its crystal-clear waters.

"Nature at its Best" is how I describe Imugan and Malico in Nueva Vizcaya. This is not a popular destination for travelers but you will definitely enjoy the simple life there. The Imugan Falls is one of the most scenic falls I have visited this year and the Malico Pine Forest literally feels like you are walking on clouds. I was with amazing company in a very friendly community.

Biliran prides itself with a reputation of having the purest and sweetest water, numerous waterfalls, rice terraces and several sandy, white beaches on offshore islands. Sadly, tourism has yet to take off in this quiet island province. In fact, there are no organized travel and tour agency in the province so the able officers and staff of the Provincial Tourism Office, aside from the information that will give you, can also be your tour guides. Of all the places I have seen, I consider this island as one with the best tourism potential so I encourage everyone to experience Biliran now before it becomes another tourist trap.

I was in Ilocos Norte last year and that trip landed as my third top travel of 2008. What's different this time around is that I have visited the awesome Kapurpurawan Rock Formations in Burgos. Kapurpurawan in Ilocano dialect means kaputian or white and the these reflect the whiteness of limestone rock. One could climb on these rocks and be amazed by its different textures from smooth surface to somewhat wavy formations -and being there is truly an out-of-this-world experience.

The sole out-of-the-country trip I had this year was in Hong Kong with a side-trip to Macau. I was amazed with the transport system of Hong Kong and how easy it was to navigate from place to place. I enjoyed walking on Lantau Trails and Hong Kong Trails and also experience how to be a kid again in Disneyland. In Macau, I marveled at the Venice-scene in Venetian Hotel and immensely enjoyed the experience wandering around the heritage sites of the Old Macau.

For most travelers, Puerto Galera is nothing but the White Beach. However, the island has so much to offer. On my second time to this island, I have gone to places considered as off-the-beaten paths like Tamaraw and Aninauan Falls. I have also visited not-so-popular but equally stunning beaches in the far end of the island.

Tacloban City is a premier city in Eastern Visayas and boasts of historical destinations that served as backdrops in the struggle to regain Philippine independence. It is famous for the Statue of Gen. Mac Arthur in Red Beach and the magnificent San Juanico Bridge. Of course, you should try the delectable Binagol and Moron while exploring the city.

This is one of the last places I have visited last year and the one that also left a lasting impression. The town of Taal in Batangas is a historic small town with a number of old Spanish colonial churches and buildings. It is home to the massive Basilica of Saint Martin de Tours and the surprisingly beautiful Caysasay Church. Its old Spanish houses will make you feel like you are walking in the past. Simply amazing.

2009 is all about new places and new friends. Hopefully for 2010, I could go to other places in my wish list, and more importantly, meet and travel with YOU guys who have spent some time reading and commenting in this humble blog. Cheers for 2010!!!

Photo credits to Ronnie on my shot inside Sagada Cave and Ferdz on the Group shot in front of Basilica St. Martin de Tours.

Sagada - Your Choice

2010-01-02T10:50:00.005+08:00

Last month, I run a mini-poll in this blog asking you what you think should be my Top Travel for 2009. Sagada garnered the top spot, so I would like to share a video I made of the place.

The result of the poll follows:

1. Sagada - 35 votes
2. Bantayan Island - 30 votes
3. Cagbalete-Pagbilao - 22 votes
4. Pagudpud-Bangui-Burgos - 20 votes
5. Biliran - 15 votes
6. Hong Kong-Macau - 15 votes
7. Imugan-Malico - 14 votes
8. Baguio - 5 votes
9. Puerto Galera - 4 votes
10. Leyte - 3 votes

The result of the poll will greatly affect my choice in the Top 10 Travels of 2009 that I will reveal in my next post.

By the way, the first post made on this blog was on January 2, 2006 about a law topic on "Time to Appeal". Originally intended as a law review blog, this blog has transformed into a photo and travel one. But once in a while, I will still go back to my roots and post interesting post about law because afterall, this journey is all about "Law, Travel and Photography" in Islands Philippines and Beyond...

2009 - A Year Of Travels and Photos

2009-12-31T01:31:00.011+08:00

It was a year of travel-photo journey that took me to amazing places of Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao and a couple of countries outside the Islands Philippines. Year 2009 allowed me to go deep into forests and mountains as well as lazed around some of the most scenic beaches I have ever seen. It was also about learning history first-hand and be accompanied by some of the most awesome bloggers of the land. And speaking of Blogging, 2009 will be fondly remembered because this humble blog was a first-time finalist in the Photo-Blog category of the Philippine Blog Awards. To recap, here are my monthly account of the places I have featured here in Lawstude's Journey:

The lush Sierra Madre Mountain Range was a prominent display in these JANUARY posts that covered the provinces of Nueva Vizcaya, Nueva Ecija and Aurora. Posts for this month included the quaint Saint Dominic Church in Bayombong, the foggy Dalton Pass, the beautiful mountainside of Laur, the calming Dupinga River in Gabaldon and the idyllic town of Dingalan.

Adventure in nature best describe posts in FEBRUARY. It was my first time to do White Water Rafting in Cagayan de Oro and also my first time to explore the amazing island paradise of Camiguin. Cagayan de Oro truly exemplified the "Gold" in its name while the volcanic Camiguin Island was indeed a seventh heaven for outdoor lovers.

History and festivities highlighted MARCH. It was my nth time to witness the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio City, and imho, it gets grander and better every year. A visit to Dambana ng Kagitingan located in Mount Samat, Bataan was also posted this month.

APRIL is all about summer and Oh Boy! what an amazing summer that was. Cagbalete Island off the coast of Mauban was just unbelievable with its long and wide shoreline while the beach in Pagbilao has become one of my instant favorites. The scenic Agta Beach and Tinago Falls in Biliran were also featured this month.

The merry month of MAY showed the continuation of the Biliran series visiting the Karaha Falls and the Mainit Hot Springs. A tour around "new" Macau as well as a walk around the "old" Macau were also featured. The month also started the posts on the off-beaten paths of Puerto Galera that included trips to Tamaraw Falls and Sitio Aninuan.

JUNE ushered the start of classroom season but there is no better teacher than the experiences you had while on the road. The beaches of Puerto Galera, the crowded Hong Kong and its harbor and the historic place of Tacloban City in Leyte provided enough experiences for me to learn what no classroom can teach.

I was a kid again in JULY. It was fun, fun, fun in Disneyland without getting my feet wet or my clothes soiled. Ivan Man Dy was also featured this month along with his Malacanang Tour where I got to see the Insides of the Presidential Palace with some of the most awesome Travel Bloggers of the land.

A mix of popular destinations and off-the-beaten tracks were featured in AUGUST. I have revisited the famous Hundred Islands of Alaminos, Pangasinan and have a post each on the three most popular islands (Governor's, Children's and Quezon). Backpacking Bataan was also made starting from Looc Cove in Bagac to Playa de Calete in Morong. A return to Manila's most famous walls of Intramuros capped the month.

Nature at its best is showcased in SEPTEMBER, my favorite month. The rough sea trip to Kabatian Island was all worth when you see the amazing rugged scape of rocks and seas. Imugan and Malico are two captivating spots in Nueva Vizcaya which showcased a wide array of natural high from the falls of the former to the pine forest of the latter. The month also started the series on the idyllic mountain town of Sagada.

OCTOBER featured more of the tranquil mountain town of Sagada. Sagada has been drawing backpackers for decades because of its lovely hikes, yoghurts and lemon pies and the companionship of like-minded travellers. I always wanted to go there and the place truly live up to its hype and more. A return to Blue Lagoon aka Maira-ira was also featured this month. This time around, I was with a different company but equally enjoyable.

Visaya's busiest metro and Ilocos' greatest natural structure were all in NOVEMBER. From the historical Cebu City, waiting until the sun sets in Mandaue City, to the varied scapes of Lapu-lapu City - there is always something new to learn and discover about Metropolitan Cebu. And up north, in Ilocos Norte, is one of the best natural formations I have seen - Kapurpurawan Rocks. Its whiteness and its contrast to the blue sky and sea is just a sight that will linger in your memories forever.

DECEMBER ended with a bang because of Bantayan Island and Taal, Batangas. Prominent in these places were century-old churches and the simple way of living. But the similarity ends there. The relaxed, bucolic little island of Bantayan is famous for its exquisite white sand beaches while the historic, small town of Taal is famous for its old Spanish colonial buildings that seem to take you back in time.

I thank GOD for keeping me safe in my travels and for letting me meet some of the best bloggers in these trips that have become my friends. It was a great 2009 for me but it is difficult not to believe that the next year will be better than the old one. Future is always good, no matter what happens. It will always give us what we need and what we want in secret. It will always bless us with right gifts. Thus in a deeper sense our belief in the New Year cannot deceive us.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!

Our Lady of Caysasay Church @ Taal, Batangas

2009-12-27T21:05:00.005+08:00

Some of the best kept-secrets lie in a small package. That certainly holds true with Our Lady of Caysasay Church in Barrio Labac, Taal, Batangas. From the outside, the church is humble and plain looking but once you see the interiors, you will simply be mesmerized.

The present church is a rebuilt version of the one that housed the Nuestra Senora de Caysasay, a miraculous image of the virgin that has guided the town since the 1600s. Originally built in 1639, the church was damaged by the eruption of Taal Volcano and an earthquake. It was later restored and improved by Father Marcos Anton with the interiors painted by Cesar Aberoni.

Just few minutes walk from the Church is the Santa Lucia Twin Wells. The waters from the wells are said to be miraculous and has healing powers. The wells are located on what was left of a stone-arch that has an engraved sculpture of Our Lady of Caysasay destroyed also by the eruption of Taal Volcano in the 1800s.

Our Lady of Caysasay Church's Facade

Old Bricked Walls

Humble Walkways

Impressive Centuries-Old Deco-Art

Amazing Painted Ceiling

Painted Jesus on the Cross

Miraculous Ruins

Sta Lucia Twin Wells

To see other contributions in "My World", please click here.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2009-12-24T19:25:00.005+08:00

Fellowship, feasting, giving and receiving gifts are all the buzzwords in a Christmas setting. Make your Christmas a one to cherish for years!

Villavicencio Ancestral Home @ Taal, Batangas

2009-12-22T21:06:00.005+08:00

The town of Taal in Batangas is a historic small town with a number of old Spanish colonial buildings. And Villavicencio Ancestral Home is one of them. It was the home of Doña Gliceria Marella de Villavicencio who was one of the heroic women who have contributed great sums of money and energy for the Philippine revolution. A statue in her honor is located at the corner of the street where her house is located.

Unlike other ancestral house in other parts of the country, Villavicencio House burst in bright colors. Its exterior is colored yellow and blue while its interior is painted with elaborate bright colors of red, orange, yellow, green and lot more. The ceiling is decorated with tin, embossed with floral motif while the walls showcase hand-painted canvass by Emilio Alvero. The most prized possession of the house is the Altar de Mesa located in the master's bedroom. Altar de Mesa is a collector's item and worth more than a million pesos.

Metal Crafted Gate

Old-Design of Tiled First Floor

Bed of the Old Times

Elegant Dining Table

Dong Ho Shooting Altar De Mesa

Two Stor(e)y of Beauty

Ceiling Art and Light

Lawstude's Mirror Shot

If you happen to like ancestral houses, you may want to check out some of my previous post like:

Manila Old Houses
Real de Acuzar in Bataan
Vigan Old Houses

I also would like to share this place to "My World" which shows amazing places around the world. To check out other entries, please click here. More of Taal, Batangas in my next posts.

Taal's Basilica of St. Martin de Tours

2009-12-19T21:08:00.001+08:00

The historic small town of Taal prides itself with the massive century-old Basilica of St. Martin de Tours that dominates the lawned Taal Park. Built in 1840s to 1860s, this well preserved church has one of the best facades of all the churches I have seen. And not to be outdone is the church's interiors showcasing intricately designed ceiling and a well-crafted altar.

The Church was said to be named after Martin de Goiti, a Spanish explorer and a patron saint to those who have lost their way. Travelers from nearby places also frequent this church to seek guidance and ask for safety in their journeys. This Church is also reputed to be the largest Catholic church in Asia. Its facade resembles that of the St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and its tabernacle is made of silver, the only one of its kind in the Philippines.

Basilica of St. Martin de Tours

Jesus Christ Statue

Beautiful Church Altar

Intricate Interiors

The Back Door

Stone-walled Belfry

A Small Bell in the Window

The Century-Old Bell Still Working at the Belfry

Philippine Travel Bloggers Unite
Getting there is easy because most Batangas-bound buses from Manila depart every hour. Take a bus (JAM, Alps, RRCG) bound for Lemery as it pass right through Taal Park. Once in Taal, the best thing to do is wander by foot and explore this historic town. More of Taal in my next posts.

Slacken and Sleekin' in Bantayan Island

2009-12-16T13:41:00.006+08:00

What is your favorite time of day?

Bantayan Island by day is truly a paradise. There is so much things to see and explore. Every place therein presents an opportunity for a worthy picture. You can't go wrong taking shots at every nooks and cranny of the many beaches and coves of the island. And finding your own space in this idyllic island is never a problem.

Choc Nut

Sea Escape

Dip

Lie

Bantayan Island at dusk presents a glorious display of sky images where the light slowly fades into darkness. Or if you want respite from the heat of the mid-day sun, this is the time where you can wade into the shores bare feet and let the cool sea water wash your feet as the warm breeze envelopes you.

Twilight

Calm

Wade

Tranquil

Bantayan Island at night is a different story. The sound of gentle waves will fill your night. No party, no bright lights, no music - the way nature intend it to be. And whatever happened in Bantayan at night will not stay there but will be imbibed in your memory forever.

Romance

Silence
All shots taken at Budyong Beach Resort in Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island. To see other amazing places around the world, please click here.