kahubya mo gud

Get stoke and stoned in Liw Liwa Zambales

2014-07-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

Stoked in Liw Liwa Zambales

The last beach that we visited before 2013 ends is Sitio Liw Liwa in San Felipe Zambales. A not so famous surfing/skimboarding spot for now. But this place I would say is much better than La Union.Why? Cheap accommodation, less crowded and it’s much nearer than La Union. They offer same water sports anyway so why bother travelling for 7 hours just to surf if you can take it for just 3 to 4 hours right?

What to do in Liw Liwa

There’s a lot of things to do in Liw Liwa. From surfing to skimboarding on flats or waves, frisbee or do whatever makes you happy. The beach is all yours for it’s damn empty and wide. You can even get naked if you want to. Naahhh just kidding. I’d say this beach is a good place to bum around, to relax ourselves from the stress that we’re getting from our work, bosses or even from our nagging or annoying parents. hahaha Peace ma. Grab a couple bottles of beer, move your ass to the beach and lie down on the sand. Then, get drunk! Don’t make your life so complicated once you’re on the beach. You went there to relax right?!

Now, don’t worry if you don’t know how to surf or skim. Locals are there to help or teach you. Surfing lessons cost P400 for one hour and that includes the board rental. If you’re confident that you are good enough, then you can rent a board for P200 for another hour. For skimboarding lesson, that I don’t know. Forgot to ask since I have my own board. Just go to Kila Bot Sir Ping Spot and ask for prices. It’s better to get instructor from them coz those guys know how to rip the waves.

Where to stay in Liw Liwa

At Circle Hostel, you can either sleep on Bunk Beds for P350/night, on a Hammock with built in mosquito net for P250/night or you can pitch a tent for P250/head/night. This place may seem cool but if your are talking about privacy, not a good place to stay. You’ll definitely hear someone snores at night.

Everything should have been all good at Circle Hostel except with one problem. When we woke up the next day, the caretaker didn’t even bother to ask us if we want something for breakfast. Breakfast is included so it should be ready by then. And she wasn’t even nice that morning. Damn! I wish we stayed at Kila Bot Sir Ping Spot where they offer a room for P800/night/room which is good for 4-6 people or pitch your tent for P80/night/head.Cheap right? Yah, you better stay there and have your own breakfast the next day. Circle only served 6 breads, 1 pack of stuffing and 3 banana for the 3 of us anyway.

Where to eat in Liw Liwa

Food and liquors are available in Sitio Liw Liwa so you don’t need to buy that in town. One is in front of Circle Hostel and the other one is in front of Sir Ping Spot. I didn’t get the names of the store. You can choose from variety of food such as Tapsilog, Spamsilog and whatever itlog (egg) you like. Hahahaha A bottle of beer cost P26.00. Pretty sure you’ll get drunk with this kind of prices. I did. Hahaha

So what are you waiting for? Get your lazy ass movin’ and head on to Liw Liwa Zambales while it’s not yet crowded. Watch this lovely dogs, bum on the beach read a book (wee??), surf or skim and make sure you don’t get a broken bone once you get home. Or walk around the beach and do some photography. There’s a lot of good subject to shoot on to.

My overall experience in Liw Liwa Zambales?

It was solid! Great sunset, less expensive and a beach that is almost for us only. Perfect! A great way to end 2013 and a perfect weekend getaway for everyone.

If you want to go to Liw Liwa , here's a quick guide! Peace out ya'll! haha

Camping out in Masasa Beach

2014-07-12T09:32:00.001-07:00

Masasa Beach

Batangas is well known for its diving spots in Anilao, beaches like Calatagan or Laiya, and mountains to hike like PicoDe Loro or Batulao, who would have thought that there’s one paradise that lies in Tingloy. A beach that is rarely visited and untouched by developers. With its powdery white mixed with black sand, clear turquoise warm water, it truly is a haven and a MUST visit. Masasa Beach offers a picture perfect sunset since it lies at the tip of the coast.

It was around 10:15 in the morning when we arrived in Anilao/Mabiniport. Just in time for the first trip to Tingloy which is 10:30 am. It took us 45 minutes to reach Tingloy. Then took a quick 10-15 minute drive on a tricycle to Sitio Masasa then another 10 minutes walk to the beach. From the jump-off point to the beach, the view from here is so inviting. You’ll see trees, rice field and the green water from the beach. Both of us were almost shouting saying “wooaahhh, wow! Yes!”. The kid in us burst out not minding what the locals might think of us.

Upon reaching the beach, we looked right away for a place to camp. After finding one, we dropped our bags and sit our asses on the sand while our toes were dipped in the water. It was irie man! We had our moments for a few minutes. Naks! Hahaha I then set up our tent and after that, we both found ourselves swimming and snorkeling. Sky was dead boring at 5:30 pm. I was already complaining and upset because of it. It was almost 6 when the sun finally set. But damn! The sky showed off and fed our eyes with warm colors. Masasa beach really is unpredictable one! This place is one true gem of Batangas. The weather at night was cool. It’s not hot nor too cold. And the sky was filled with stars. Perfect for star trail photography!

People in Tingloy were really nice. Everyone that passes by says “HELLO” with a smile on their faces. At night, I honestly wasn’t able to get a good sleep because I was worried for both of us (me and my partner). We were the only campers on that beach during that time. And locals come and go passing by on our sweet spot even late at night so it’s kinda creepy. But it proved me wrong, they are really NICE. I mean REALLY REALLY NICE. Nothing happened to us and no one disturbed us at night on the beach. For water source, you have to take a good 5 minutes walk from the beach and from there, you can take a bath.

If you’re planning to get to Masasa beach bring a tent for this place doesn’t have resorts and also a good camping lamp that will last overnight coz power lights here is only up from 12am to 12pm. There’s no entrance fee for this beach. Before hopping in on a passenger boat, better buy your goods and water in the market since there’s no restaurant in Tingloy. If you think that you don’t have time to cook for lunch, you can ask the tricycle driver to drop by first in Lomihan near the hospital. They serve meals from Monday-Friday while on weekends, they only sell a few such as Pancit or Lomi for PHP 60.00. And never forget your snorkeling gear for you not to miss nemo! Nah, just kidding! Bring one really coz this beach is good for snorkeling.

Masasa beach is picture perfect. But don’t expect too much. Since it’s a public beach, trashes were scattered around the shore like plastic bags, cans, bottles and things that were probably left by campers. So if you may, please, bring a trash bag with you and put it in the right place. Be responsible for once in your life and learn how to take care of the gifts that we have. Swimming area is clean. On the left side, there are corals in it, just watch out for sea urchins and jelly fish! While on the right side of the beach, it has less corals which is ideal for swimming. If you want to get to Masasa Beach, Here's an easy Travel Guide for this beach.

So that’s it! I hope you like this post and I’m looking forward of seeing your photos that you’re in Masasa Beach. Just don’t leave your trash on the beach okay? =)

Samar has white sand beach too!

2014-07-12T08:43:00.000-07:00

Spice Beach is one gem that Northern Samar has. With its almost perfect powdery white sand and clear turquoise water, who would dare not to bum and swim on this beach? During our 6 day trip in my home town in Calbayog Samar and after exploring the beaches and waterfalls, we went to the Northern part of Samar to set foot in Spice Beach (for the very first time). It’s an hour and a half drive from Calbayog and fare is just Php 100.00 on an ac van.

Checking out the white sand of Spice Beach

When we arrived on this beach, I just couldn’t stop myself from smiling. Even I grew up in Samar, I’ve never been here before. The water is just so inviting. Clear and warm water, fine sand, this is just perfect to get away from the busy streets of Calbayog. And aside from this, we were alone when we arrived, except for the locals who were fishing nearby. Spice of life Beach as they call it has cottages that can be rented for Php 100.00 for the whole day. There’s no entrance fee and I have no idea if you could stay here overnight. But I guess you could.

The beach has small pocket of white sand and the shore isn’t sandy at all. It has some small corals and small rocks probably washed out from the sea. It really is unspoiled right? Also, once in the water, better wear a slippers coz there are areas that might cut you from sharp rocks and unfortunately, some broken glasses from bottles. Even found some trash (picked it out and put it on our trash bag). I hope that the people who comes to this beach keeps it clean.

During the time that we were in Spice Beach, there were locals who were on a chase of anchovies or Dilis in Tagalog (oh ha! Ginogoole ko yan hahaha). And the scene was awesome because almost everyone who’s on the beach was helping. If you’re planning to stay until sunset, better bring a foods. There are some stores there but I didn’t see any that sells meals. Also, buses, jeepneys or vans passes by most of the time so you won’t have a problem getting a ride.

How to get to Spice Beach

From Calbayog, take an AC van bound to Catarman or Allen for Php 100.00 and just tell the driver to drop you off in Spice Beach. Beach is on the left side from the road if your coming from Calbayog. 10 steps from the road. Easy huh? =)

Truth about Burot Beach

2014-06-27T06:07:00.000-07:00

Burot Beach

This beach is known for one of the nearest beach in Manila. Upon seeing photos online and getting' a good feedback from bloggers, my girl and I decided to give it a shot on one weekend. After getting some info on how to reach Burot Beach, we hit the road and off we go to the beach.

Padayon

Mt Pulag , Mountaineers paradise

2014-06-23T08:26:00.000-07:00

Mt Pulag

Mt Pulag is well known for the sea of clouds that you’ll see once in summit in the morning. Combined with sunrise behind it, oh damn, what a combo! But little did we know that Mt Pulag offers more. At night, it was perfect for star gazing. And guess what, Mt Pulag is the right place to witness the Milky Way.

Padayon

Liw Liwa Travel Guide

2014-06-22T07:16:00.000-07:00

Liw Liwa Zambales

How to get to Liw Liwa

Get on a bus bound to Iba Zambales and let 'em know that you'll get off in San Felipe Zambales. Victory Liner has daily trip. One way fare to San Felipe is Php 290.00. Once in San Felipe, charter a tricycle and tell the driver that you're going to Liw Liwa.

Padayon

Nagsasa Cove Travel Guide

2014-06-20T11:37:00.000-07:00

Nagsasa Cove

How to get to Nagsasa Cove Zambales

Take Victory Liner Bus in Cubao bound to Iba Zambales. Be sure you inform them that you’re getting off in San Antonio Public Market. Bus fair to Nagsasa Cove is around Php 260.00 to Php 300.00. Once in San Antonio, take a tricycle to Pundaquit. Fair is Php 30.00/person.
For boat, you may contact JR at 0917 380 9104. Boat rate is Php 1600.00 that can sit 2-4 persons for Nagsasa Cove and if you want to go to Capones the next day, just add Php 200.00 .

Must bring: Tent, flashlight, Portable gas stove, cookware, food, water (you can ask water from JR).

Masasa Beach Travel Guide

2014-06-20T06:02:00.000-07:00

Masasa Beach

With its powdery white mixed with black sand, clear turquoise warm water, it truly is a haven and a MUST visit. Masasa Beach offers a picture perfect sunset since it lies at the tip of the coast.

How to get to Masasa Beach

From Manila:

Ride a bus going to Balagtas Grand Terminal in Batangas. Jam Liner in Kamuning Cubao has daily trip. Fare is Php 165.00 ( better be in a bus around 6 in the morning)
From Balagtas Terminal, ride a jeepney bound to Mabini/Anilao for Php 35.00
Once in Port, take passenger boat to Tingloy for Php 70.00
Tricycle from Tingloy port to Sittio Masasa is Php 60.00/tryc

Passenger boat trips to Masasa Tingloy

From Anilao Port to Tingloy

10:30 Am, 12:30 Pm 2:30 Pm 4:30 Pm

From Tingloy to Anilao Port

6:00 Am, 7:00 Am, 8:00 Am, 9:00 Am

Tricycle from Masasa Beach to Tingloy Port Php 60.00/tryc
Passenger boat from Tingloy to Mabini/Anilao port for Php 70.00
Jeepney bound to Diversion Road for Php 30.00
Take another Jeepney ride bound to Balagtas Grand Terminal for Php 8.00
Balagtas Grand Terminal to Cubao Php 165.00

(An overnight stay in Masasa Beach will cost around Php 670.00/each just for the fare)

A must bring if going to Masasa beach :

Food
Water
Tent
Camping Light
Snorkeling Gear
and Camera =)

Note:

Deep well or water source is 5 to 10 minutes away from Masasa Beach. Don't leave your things unattended and never leave your trash behind. Thanks!

Day hike in Mt Batulao

2014-06-17T05:12:00.000-07:00

View of Mt Batulao

A few months after climbing Mt Sembrano and Mt Pico De Loro, I have been itching to get on a mountain again to get some action. We decided to Climb Mt Batulao since it's just near Manila. It was late in the morning when we hoped the bus bound to Batangas so our trek started at around 12 noon. This trek should have been an overnight stay but the group decided to just day hike it and spend a night on a beach in Nasugbu Batangas.

I thought that this climb would be a piece of cake knowing that Mt Pico Deloro is much difficult than Mt Batulao. The trail isn't that hard at all. What made it difficult is the heat from the sun. Damn! This mountain has less trees leaving us too exposed from the sun which made me exhausted easily. But that didn't matter at all. Seeing the view from Peek 1 to summit somehow lessen the burden that i'm getting' from too much heat.

Near Base Camp of Mt Batulao

It was around 3 pm when we reach the base camp at peak 8. Karen, the only lady that we were with can't go ahead to reach the summit. So John's brother decided to be with her since he already climb Mt Batulao before. After 20 minutes of rest, we push on for the summit. Only three of us went on. The trail gets a bit harder as we hit Peak 9. It's steep and slippery and the path gets smaller as we move on to peak 10. I still remember that certain path at peak 10 where were facing the wall of the mountain and a 100 foot drop on our side. One mistake, and you're done! hahaha It was really awesome! Did I just say “awesome”? Ahahaha amen to that!

After 30 or 40 minutes of trekking, we reached peak 11 and almost a few more steps to the summit. It was an awesome feeling that i'm almost there, the summit is within reach. When we finally reached the summit, the three of us were really smiling. Happy and glad to see the view and we got up to summit in one piece. After we had our rest and had my eyes fed up by the beautiful view by it, we started descending to base camp to fetch the guys who decided to be left behind.

We took another quick break at the base camp before heading to the jump off point and juiced up with fresh coconut juice.

We trek fast so we could reach it before sun down. Just in time when we arrived at the jump off as the sun sets. Good thing coz we forgot to bring our headlamps. We are all exhausted when we arrived at the jump off but the sunset made it so rewarding. I have witnessed another beautiful scene from heaven above.

We then head to Nasugbu beach in Batangas which is just an hour drive from Mt Batulao. Spend that night there and it was all good.

My experience on this trek was awesome. Mountain climbing became a passion for me and no longer a hobby. I'm pretty sure there'll be more to follow. Still day dreaming of climbing Mt Pulag, Mt Apo and a few more.

Last View of Mt Batulao

Some details about Mt. Batulao:

Jump-off point: Evercrest Golf Course, Nasugbu

Days required / Hours to summit: 1 day / 2-4 hours

Difficulty 4/9, Trail class 3 with 60-70 degrees assault

Features: Open trails, rolling slopes.

How to Get to Mt Batulao:

Ride a bus in Cubao bound to Nasugbu Php 130-140 and Get off at Evercrest

Get on a tricycle Php 30.00

Outreach for the kids of Mt Humalophop

2014-06-11T11:12:00.001-07:00

Tour in Banaue before heading to Mt Humalophop

Last 20th to 22nd of July 2014, I was with the Backpackers again to climb Mt Humalophop which is about 1190 MASL located in Hingyon Ifugao. But it wasn’t just a mountain climbing activity, It was an outreach program for the kids Of Ifugao. A simple gift that we all know would give them a lot of hope.

Padayon

Trek to Bangon Falls

2014-06-10T09:52:00.000-07:00

Bangon Falls

A better way to enjoy nature is by trekking it. That’s what we did for Bangon Falls after spending a couple of hours in Veriato Falls. We opted not to ride a motorcycle or Habal-Habal since its only a 45 to 60 minutes walk from the jump-off. You can ride a motorcycle if you want for P200.00 – P300.00 back and forth. Why take a ride? Why don’t you go ahead and move your ass and get a good exercise you lazy bastard! hahaha Once you reach Barangay Tinaplacan, you’ll see a sign pointing Bangon Falls so i’m pretty sure you won’t get lost.

It was such a disappointment when we arrived at the jump off. We went straight to the Brgy Office hoping that they would give us some guidelines or at least brief us for do’s and dont’s while we’re there. But it was different. They want us to get a guide and they were really forcing us to get one and the fee is for P300.00. What the hell this lady is talking about?! Even one of the locals ask her and said, “What?! P300.00?” . Now I got the sense that these barangay officials are trying to reap us off. It ain’t gonna happen lady. This ain’t your dumb tourist that you can fool like that. I did my research before I came there. So I interrupted her and told her that I went to City Tourism in Calbayog and I was told that there’s no such thing as guide fee for P300.00 ( I was lying that time and it was effective.hahaha) The lady backed out and paused for a while then started to get mad and said ” Okay! If you don’t want, it’s fine. But I won’t let you sign on our log book so that whatever happens to you guys, it’s not on us!” Man, this is so wrong. You should in fact take care of your tourist and shouldn’t act like that. I was really mad but I let it pass and just said, we’ll just go on. We know the way and that we don’t need a guide. We can take care of ourselves. I didn’t argue with her. I went there to enjoy.

So we started walking around 12:15 in the afternoon. Edu knows the way so he guided us during this trek. The way going to Bangon Falls is way too easy. For the first 10 minutes, it’s pure mud and you’ll see a fork, choose the one on the right side. Then a few minutes more, you’ll see a cemented path and all you need to do is to follow your heart. hahaha Nahhh, just kidding. Follow the path and you’ll end up right in Bangon falls. It rained a little and it made our walk a little fun coz it ain’t too hot anymore. My girl is a bit tired and I could see it in her face so we decided to take a little rest. It was past 1 in the afternoon when we arrived there.

We were tired and soaking wet since we just came from Veriato Falls and it rained a little. But when we saw the falls, man! We were re-energized! It was B-E-A-UTIFUL ! ! ! This was my first time that I laid my eyes on such beautiful creations made for us. We were all smiling. Now it’s time for a challenge going inside the river to exactly see the layers of Bangon falls. Current were strong, stones were really slippery. One mistake, we might be dragged by those strong current. Thank god we made it without any harm. It maybe difficult but trust me, its all worth it man! It was rainy when we were there but still, the view is amazing. Its one of a kind.

How come I’ve been missing a lot of things during my younger days? What the hell have I been doing before?! It was only now that I found out that we, as Calbayognons has something to be proud of! Now Calbayogis showing off! Yeah man! Stand up and be proud! We sat and enjoy the view that we have. I was with nature. It was pure nature, a strong current coming out from the falls, wind that made that trees dance a little. Sound of water drop from up above, man, its making me high. hahaha

Knowing that Tarangban Falls is just a 45 minutes to an hour trek from Bangon, we tried and attempted to hit this. Since it was raining, it made our trek more difficult since it was no longer a concreted path, we were literally in a jungle. Knowing that my girl is not a hiker, I expected the worst. And yes, it happened. She suddenly slip and hit her ass really hard. Oh shit! Now we’re screwed. She was really having a hard time and I could see it in her eyes that she’s about to cry. There’s no direction from Bangon to Tarangban and there’s a lot of forks to choose from so getting lost inside this jungle is really possible. If we push forward, I know it’ll be more difficult for all of us since my girl is with me. And I don’t want to risk it this time coz she’s with me. Maybe if it was just me and edu, I’d probably go forward. So we went back to Bangon Falls coz it’s already past 2 in the afternoon and we don’t want darkness to catch us inside the jungle. We all decided to just sit back and chill out and be contented with Bangon. But I told myself, I will be back and I have to get to Tarangban next time. I ain’t finish with chasing waterfalls in Calbayog.

There’s a lot more to discover and knowing that there’s more than 20 of it? Oh my, I will take those one at a time for sure! It was past 3 when we left Bangon Falls. It was hard to leave the place coz I know it’ll take longer again before I could see such beauty like this. But we have to. We need to trek back again so we all had our moment before living the said falls. Edu and I rewarded ourselves with a can of beer before we left. It was all good. It was an amazing experience for all of us specially for me and my girl. Now I have something to brag about Calbayog.

What can i say about Bangon Falls? It was great and really beautiful. But don’t over develop the place. I guess the path is enough. Don’t you ever dare to put some huts in it coz that’s a No No. And please, if someone’s reading this specially the guys from Tinaplacan (the officials), stop ripping off the people. Set a standard guide fee if that’s what you really want but don’t make your own prices please. Or better, communicate with City Tourism Officials in Calbayog. I’m saying this coz I don’t want the tourist that will visit this place gets in dismay because of you scumbags! Fix yourselves people!

Heres how to get to Bangon Falls

From Calbayog: Ride a tricycle to Terminal for P5.00. Get on a jeepney bound to Allen and ask the driver to drop you off in Tinaplacan or tell them you’re going to Bangon Falls.Fair is P40.00-P45.00

Note: If Barangay Officials ask you for a guide and its more than P150.00. It’s up to you. I would say turn ‘em down since it’s just easy. Also, there’s no trash can in Bangon Falls so if you’re going to bring some foods or planning to have a lunch there, better bring a trash bag where you can put your trashes and bring it back with you.

One of Calbayogs treasure, Veriato Falls

2014-06-09T05:36:00.000-07:00

Its been more than a year since I last visited my hometown which is Calbayog City Samar and never visited Veriato Falls. Whenever i'm on vacation, i’m always with my friends and everyday, we get drunk. Yeah. That’s how we roll whenever i'm there. hahaha There’s a lot of things that I missed whenever I visit Calbayog. Since I grew up there, I never liked going out on a beach or even tried to go on a falls. What for?! I was young before so we’d rather spend time on a bar gettin’ drunk and woke up the next day not remebering a thing. Boy, I thought that was the best thing to do that time, but i was wrong. As i’ve said, since i met my girl, I was hook up into travelling like what she does. So when we both agreed to have a 6 day vacation in Calbayog, i told myself that i have to discover some hidden paradise on the place that I grew up on. When we arrived there, i asked my childhood friends what are the best spots to go while were there. They mentioned a few such as Tonok falls, Pan-as and Bangon falls. We opted to go to Bangon knowing that it’s just an hour drive and there’s a nearby falls aswell named Veriato. So it’s like hitting 2 birds in one stone. Yeah man! Lakas. hahaha

Veriato Falls bound!

So on the 5th of September, we hit the road bound to Veriato Falls knowing that it’s just near the highway. Veriato Falls is near Barangay Tinaplacan and it’s a 10 minute drive from the jump off point for Bangon Falls. It took almost an hour to reach this lovely falls. It was around 11 in the morning when we arrived there. I was with my partner and my long time friend Edu who serves as our guide trough out our adventures and travels to discover our beloved Calbayog. We were all awed and stunned by the beauty of this falls. It is simple and B-E-A-utiful baby! Fresh air, green trees, clear water, and the sound of the water that falls from up above, what more can i ask for? Yah, i asked myself again, where in the heck did this water came from? It’s a forest from behind it so how come there’s a large volume of water that comes out from it? Enough crap! Just enjoy the view and stop wondering!

Since it’s already lunch time when we got in Veriato, we decided to have our lunch there. I took a banana leaf so we could have a boodle fight lunch. My grandma cooked us a steamed crabs and bought some fish to grill. Unfortunately, i made a mistake. I brought the grilling thingy (i don’t know) hahaha and also the charcoal but the fish is nowhere else to be found. Damn me! That’s what happens when i’m in a hurry. Anyway, we still have some crabs though to eat so it’s all good. We had our lunch under the tree and a view of Veriato Falls and it really feels good. After getting ourselves full, we then swam on the river. It was cold even though it’s sunny! And guess what? the water taste a little salty. That’s because this falls is connected to a nearby ocean. Veriato Falls is simple. Maybe a 15 meters drop and it doesn’t have any layer. Unlike Bangon Fallswhich has 3 layers. We stayed there until 1 pm and took a jeepney bound to jump off of Bangon Falls.

I grew up in Calbayog Samar and i’m proud to say that im a Waraynon. Been there for 23 years but never thought of going on such place like this during my stay there. And now at my age, i regreted those things. If only I was expose into these during my young age, I might have explored Calbayog long time ago. Enough crap! Past is past. It’s not too late yet. I still have a lot of years to live and I will definitely explore Calbayog on every vacation that i’ll have.

One thing we’ve noticed in Veriato Falls is that the campsite or underneath the tree where we stayed is that there’s a lot of trash that was left behind by people who hang out there. For god’s sake! When will people learn not to left trash on spot like this. Are you trying to ruin what nature gave us?Is bringing back such empty canned goods or plastic bags hard? Or at least putting them on trash? Or how about putting your cigarette butts on your pocket, is that hard to do? It maybe small but that can pollute our beloved nature. Come’on people,for christ’s sake, let’s take care of this beautiful creations that were provided. And for the Barangay officials, if you may, kindly put at least a small trash bag or can so that whoever visits this place would know where to throw their trash. Please, lets take care of this treasure that we have.

How to get to Veriato Falls

From Calbayog City. Ride a tricycle to Terminal for P5.00
Take a Jeepney bound to Allen and ask the driver to drop you in Veriato Falls. You will pass first the jump off point for Bangon Falls. Most driver knows it coz it’s just on the right side of the highway and its right after the bridge. Fair is P50.00

**From Veriato falls to Bangon Falls:**

Ride a Jeepney going to Calbayog and ask the driver to drop you in Tinaplacan or Bangon Falls. Fair is just P10.00.

Suggested itinerary:
Leave early probably 7 in the morning and make Veriato Falls as your first stop then hit Bangon Falls at a later time probably before or right after lunch.

Climb with strangers in Mt Tangisan

2014-05-19T07:57:00.002-07:00

Never go out with the people you don’t know. That’s what my grandma told me when I was young. Yah right! I’m old enough now ma so im good. Hahaha Anyway, I did go out with these people that I’ve never met in my whole life. Totally strangers. What the hell was I thinking huh?!

Padayon

Unforgiving assault of Mt Daguldol

2014-05-19T07:19:00.001-07:00

Mt Daguldol to Laiya Beach

Last 4th of May 2013, I was able to climb Mt Daguldol in Batangas. Another group named Grand Mountedor was on there way that time and decided to climb together. It's gonna be fun!
We started our trek at around 12 noon. It was really hot. Good thing there were trees all over the place which give us room to escape from the heat. The other group were too fast leaving us behind. It doesn’t matter. I have all the time in the world. hahaha

After an hour of trekking, we’ve finally reached camp 1. I was really tired since I didn’t have enough sleep the night before the climb so I took a quick nap. Power nap eh? After having a quick break, we continued our ascend so we could reach base camp before the night fall. I saw this kid playing with his slingshot & shooting birds from the trees. Funny, I remember the old days. I was like him when I was a kid. But I wasn’t shooting birds, I was shooting my playmates. hahaha kidding!

Sunset in Mt Daguldol

It was around 4 pm when we reached base camp. They said that the climb is just a minor one. Come’on! Most of the trail was an assault one. Is that minor? I guess it ain’t! Anyway, it was a good hike to get me prepared for the next mountains that i’ll be climbing. When we reached base camp, I was so thankful that I could finally drop my bag and let my feet rest from the excruciating zig zag assault of Mt Daguldol. I savor the moment and look far away and told myself, I’m gonna climb those mountain next. hahaha

I then set my tent while there was light and took a quick nap again. Man I was really tired during this climb. =) It was around 8 pm when we had our dinner. I was the one who fried the chicken. Oh yeah! I’m good when it comes to fryin’. hahaha After getting ourselves full, it’s time for the booze! oh yes! That’s what I’ve been waiting for =) It was past 2 in the morning when we emptied the bottles of rum that we brought. I set my alarm at 5 in the morning hopping to see a good sunrise, I was disappointed. It was too foggy and the view that I had the other day was totally different. I can’t even see the other mountains =(

At around 6:30 I guess, the sky finally cleared out. It was an amazing view. I was so happy to see the other mountains. We then went on for the summit which is a 5 to 10 minutes walk from basecamp. No time for a quick change. I was just wearin' my boxers when we went to summit. ahahaha

At around 9 in the morning after having our breakfast, we break camp and the first group decided to go on first. But before that, we have to take a picture first. hahaha Our group left the base camp at exactly 10 in the morning.Saying my farewell to the summit of Mt Daguldol and having my last glimpse. On our way down, it was all good. Less hassle, I was running the whole time just like a kid. It only took us 2 hours to reach the jump off unlike on our way up where it almost took us 5 excruciating fuc@in’ hours. When we reached jump off, I then went straight ahead to the sari sari store (small convenience store) and bought a bottle of beer. Hahaha yah, it’s true, another booze to celebrate my way of success of hitting the summit of this mountain. Since all of us were tired, I guess we all deserved a little reward eh? We all then hit the beach and get toasted up by the sun.

At around 4 in the afternoon, we packed up and took a quick shower since it’s time to home. The experience during this climb was awesome. Being with another group and sharing our stories and adventures and the experience that we’ve all had, it was all good. It was irie. Meeting people who has the same passion, what more could you ask for? Anyway, it was another great experience, an epic climb and a great mountain. That’s it for now. Hope to climb more mountains this coming months. I hope you had fun reading this little adventure of mine in Mt Daguldol.

Chaos in Mt Pico De Loro

2014-05-19T06:06:00.000-07:00

Terrain in Pico De Loro

It was a group of 5 people including me wherein it should have been 10. Bummer for those people who promised but never came! Moving on, we started the trek at around 10 or 11 am after we registered (Php 20.00) at DENR. This trek was pack of fun and laughter. Before we started the trek, we had some stretching first led by Kitel and with music of Bruno Mars “Locked out in heaven” hahaha . The other groups were smiling and looking at us coz we were foolin’ around because of the music.

The first 30 minutes of trek was way to easy. Man I thought it’s gonna be that way up until the base camp, but it wasn’t! It was just a warm up. I was fooled by this Mountain =) A few more minutes and the trail gets harder and steeper.

Jan leads the trek while myself, Al and Richard kept changing positions as sweeper to make sure no one gets left behind and Kitel (the only lady) stays in the middle. We never had any silent moment while we’re trekking coz Richard keeps on talking and making us all laugh. It was fun the whole time.

When we saw the sign after more than an hour of Trekking, we thought that we’re near the base camp, fool me! It’s 3-4 hours more to reach it. It was a sign that we’re near the Subi-neer camp site. Bummer! hahahaha A few more minutes and we reach the first stop which is the “Subi-neer” . Four groups of campers where already there havin’ a rest and some were cooking for their lunch. We all decided to have our lunch on this place since we’re all hungry anyway. So we cook some rice and fried some fish that we bought before we went here.

After havin' a good meal, we continued our trek towards Mt Pico Deloro. The trail gets more difficult than I expected. Big rocks and mud makes the trail hard to step on to. I don’t know how many times we had our 5 minute break during this climb. It was really exhausting. This climb was not easy at all!But when we reach base camp, man the feeling is overwhelming! Seeing the landscape from up above was so beautiful. I felt re energized by it! I took a moment to be with nature and savor the moment while it last.

View of summit of Mt Pico De Loro

The mountain it self is really beautiful. The only thing that turns me off with it, is the fact that more than 30 groups of campers were set on that day. Imagine that! more than 50 tents were set. It was such a disappointment! And who the f*%k allowed the store owner for him to set up on a mountain? Such a disgrace! The store sell’s can goods, liquors, junk food and some other things. Wow! I was dismayed by it! And at night, it was such a chaos. Groups and hippies were gettin’ drunk and stoned and they were very noisy. Each group has it’s own sound system. I was like “oh sh#t, i’m in the town partying” ! Crap! Since it’s already there, we decided to get drunk as well so we could rest after drinking. We met a group of campers whose next to our tent and decided do drink together. We call the night at around 2 in the morning. It was an awesome night somehow. Ow, I almost forgot, the sky was clear that night and stars were all over it. It was beautiful. It was hard to wake up the next day! It’s cold and my head is pounding. I guess i drank too much. I need coffee please. hahaha We started to descend at around 9 or 10 in the morning so we could have our lunch on the falls. The mountain was beautiful but the people were not. I wish that somehow, people would realize that the reason why we climb is to enjoy one’s solitude, be with nature, to relax and unwind and be away from the city even just for a while. That we hike to hear nature sing, not to let them hear our music, to hear the wind shout, not us shouting! And for god’s sake, please! Don’t put up a store on a mountain! Leave it alone just like the way it was. My experience for this trek, it wouldn’t be fun at all if i wasn’t with this group. I ain’t going back on this Mountain. Not unless they remove the store and make the hiker’s learn to respect the nature.

How to get to Pico De Loro

Take a bus from Lawton to Ternate (Php 70.00 – 80.00)
Ride a tricycle to take you to Magnetic hill (Php 200.00/tricycle)
Register at DENR (Php 10.00)

Travelling Solo in La Union

2014-05-16T08:29:00.001-07:00

Bum La Union

Growing up in a small town in Calbayog City Samar, I have learned to live a simple life. Never appreciated traveling or going out. I have dedicated myself at work on a daily basis and drink out with my friends once in a while. That was my life in 2008 until 2011. But in March of 2011, I decided to do something else for my birthday instead of just staying at home while getting drunk. This time, I traveled alone and went to San Juan La Union to try surfing. This was my first time in surfing, my first time to travel alone and my first time to be in La Union. I don’t even have an idea on how to get there. Good thing my officemate knows how to get there and he instructed me. Equipped with a few notes on how and where to stay in La Union, I confidently went out and rode a bus all by myself. I felt excited and at the same time a bit nervous. I don’t know anyone in La Union, no one is with me, if something happens to me, no one might find out and a lot more.

There’s a lot of things going in mind that time. But when I saw the trees on the road side, I forgot my worries, I smiled and felt happy. It felt that I was in the Province again. I arrived in La Union at around 9 in the evening. I asked around for a place to stay. Locals were very nice to help me out even it was late in the evening. Since staying in Hotels are expensive, I chose a homestay coz it’s cheaper. It was Alex’s house that I’ve stayed for the next two days.

Since I arrived at night and got nothing to do, I decided to just go to the beach and hang out there with some bottle of beers. Alone and no one to talk to, I felt relaxed, stress from work was gone, my mind was empty at that time. I appreciated serenity for the very first time. Seeing stars up above the sky, hearing the waves smash into the shorelines, man, I could live a life like this. This is truly one way to escape reality once in a while.

It was a big day for me on my second day. Learning new stuff. Surfing baby! Alex instructed me for an hour for me to learn surfing. His wife Lea was the one taking photos of me surfing since I’m alone. It was hard paddling and trying to stand up on a surf board during my first few attempts. It was all wiped outs! But then after a few tries, I was able to manage to stand up on the board and ride the waves. It was really fun. I was stoked the whole day. I even rented one of their long board for a whole day. Whenever I get tired, I take some rest on their board shack and gas up with some beer. It was irie man! Then I surf again even when the sun was so hot. I didn’t bother getting dark.

Where to eat in La Union

At night, I went to Surfers Retreat for dinner, alone again. Too fed up with meat in Manila, I Ordered a good fried dried fish this time. Tasted just like the one in my province.

After having a good meal, I went back to the beach with some bottles of beer and enjoyed my last night on this beach. I had fun even I was alone through out my stay in La Union. I even made a promise to myself that I am going to get back on this place every year to surf more.

The next day, I have to bid goodbye to the beach and waves who have been so nice to me. This trip taught me a lot of things. To overcome fear of being alone, to go out and explore new things, to learn to love the nature, to be more confident. I even talked to strangers! I learned to appreciate small and simple things, to be kind to people around me, and mostly, I learned to love myself, to reward my self once in a while. I worked hard for a living, yet, this was the very first time that I rewarded myself like this. Going out freely, with nothing to worry of. Enjoying and living the life the way it should be. Because of this solo trip, look where I’ve been to and what I am right now, a totally addicted on travelling!

So if I were you, I’d give myself a bit of a reward. Get out from your room, pack your bag and go on a road trip. Life is on the road, not in a room! And see for yourself how you’ll grow as a better person.

Is Nagsasa Cove really worth a visit?

2014-05-08T07:38:00.002-07:00

Nagsasa Cove

A friend of my partner invited us to spend a night in Nagsasa Cove a day before going to the beach. Hahaha No solid plans at all. Screw it. We don’t need a good planning for this. So yeah, why not! We packed our things at night and prepared for another beach experience. When we got to Victory Liner Terminal in Edsa Cubao, buses to Zambales were full. We have no option but to take another route. Since Olangapo was cancelled at that time, we have no option but to take Dau route and hoped that there will be buses from there that is bound to Zambales. But being unlucky, there’s none. So we took another bus bound to Olangapo and from there, we took another bus bound to Zambales. Long trip huh? But it’s all good. As long as we get to the beach, travel time doesn’t matter. So, lesson learned? Get a reservation if you’re going to places like Nagsasa Cove especially on Summer months and weekends. Alright?

It was past 12 of noon when we arrived in San Antonio Zambales. After we bought the foods that we need in the market, we went straight to Pundaquit and meet up the person that I contacted for the boat. It was an hour boat ride from Pundaquit Beach to Nagsasa Cove. A bit bumpy ride but this can’t be compare to Calaguas. Hahaha I don’t want to ride a boat with those kind of waves again. Past 1 in the afternoon and we reached the famous Nagsasa Cove. Expecting that there will be a lot of people camping on the beach because it was on a weekend and summer, I was right. What a chaotic place. After finding a place to set our tents and hammocks, we bum and just enjoyed the fresh air. Swam on the beach occasionally, getting soaked under the sun, oh yeah. I’d rather be covered in sweat on a beach than in the city. Sunset was boring so I didn’t bother to take picture. If it was the same sunset in Boracay or in La Union, I might have been pressin’ down my camera’s shutter all the way down. Instead, I was busy making fire to grill the fish and the meat that we have that time.

We dine under the clear blue sky and it was great. After getting ourselves full, puffin’ some smoke on my cigar, I was looking around in the area to find some woods for our bonfire. Some were selling woods for Php 150.00. What?! I ain’t burnin’ 150 bucks for Christ sake! When I finally lit our bonfire, it was a go for the beer. Yeah! Cold beer, cool and fresh air, bonfire, sand, a bit of pine trees, no shit! It was awesome! Since we have a bonfire, of course, we have hotdogs and marshmallows to match it. Yeah man! It was past 10 when we decided to call the night. Zai and I decided to sleep on our hammocks for no reason. Hahaha It was a good night for the first few hours. But some idiots were shouting as if it was their first time to get drunk. Stupid! Didn’t even bother that there are other campers in the area. How stupid is that? Those f@!k heads doesn’t know how to respect others. Anyway, I was still able to get a good sleep even though I hear them talking out loud.

It was past 6 in the morning I guess when we all woke up. We then had our breakfast then we hit the beach. Then we hiked the mountain to get a good bird’s eye view of the cove. A good 15 minutes hike. Zai and my girl didn’t push through on the higher ground while Emer and I moved up. It was worth it. Gettin’ a good view of the stretch of the beach and the mountains behind it. It was a great view after all. We then trekked down and checked out the lake on the other side of the beach. After having a few pictures by the lake. We went back on swimming and bumming. Yeah dude!

At around 1 in the afternoon, it was time to say goodbye to the beach. We hopped on an outrigger boat and brace ourselves for another hour of bumpy ride. My partner and her friend saw some turtles swimming beneath our boat. I didn’t saw one. Damn it! So, is Nagsasa worth a visit? Yeah, I guess. Just do it on weekdays and not in summer. Will I come back? Nah. I don’t know. The beach is so developed. Small resorts were built in, small stores selling can goods, beers and whatever, idiot people who doesn’t respect other campers. Not my kind of beach. I’d rather go to Masasa Beach in Batangas than to go back in Nagsasa Cove.

Heres How to get to Nagsasa Cove :

Take Victory Liner Bus in Cubao bound to Iba Zambales. Be sure you inform the them that you’re getting off in San Antonio Public Market. Bus fair is around Php 260.00 to Php 300.00. Once in San Antonio, take a tryc to Pundaquit. Fair is Php 30.00/person. For boat, you may contact JR at 0917 380 9104. Boat rate is Php 1600.00 that can sit 2-4 persons for Nagsasa Cove and if you want to go to Capones the next day, just add Php 200.00.

Must bring: Tent, flashlight, Portable gas stove, cookware, food, water (you can ask water from JR).