FALLING IN LOVE WITH ILOCOS 2-BANGUI,BURGOS and PAGUDPUD

As I have always said, blogging has become my way of expressing myself, a kind of platform.  By this time, blogging is a way of expressing my gratefulness to the people who are always been a part of my life yesterday, today and tomorrow.   Some of them are Ilocanos, whom I met back then, but it was only during my recent trip in Ilocos Region where I truly appreciate them. Me and Maam Anamor Akil went to the unfamiliar place like an innocent children, with only one thing in mind. WANDERLUST! 😀

Traveling is one of the things I really love to do.  I just started my SAVINGS for my future trips.

Here are some photos from the memorable trip I had with Maam Anamor, which might be helpful for others for their future trips in Ilocos Region:

THE WINDMILLS OF BANGUI:

In going to the Bangui windmill, we got a tour package taking a tricycle from a local in Pagudpud which costs us P900.oo per person, but  if one thinks of an adventure, it is quite cheaper compare to other rentals since the whole package includes the subsequent tours as mentioned in the next pictures. We really enjoyed the trip in Bangui Windmills, since it was our first time to got the look of a windmill it was totally an awesome experience of having seen this gigantic structures , it’s like  dinosaurs (in Jurassic Films) you can see through the big trees and mountains around.  One can buy some souvenirs for a cheaper prices compared to Vigan.

THE FAMOUS PAGUDPUD SIGNAGE

Yes the famous Pagudpud Sinage and of course the breathtaking terrain and rice paddies. So, when are you coming to Ilocos Region.  You got to visit the place.  ❤ ❤

Ever since, Ilocos Region has always been on my “bucket list”, so when I decided to visit my friends in Manila, the region was been the top priority in my destination and putting into list to my itinerary every towns and municipalities of Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte, though I still have Laoag to venture in the next few years (we were not able to stay overnight at Laoag since we were so tired then and we need to go to Pagudpud before the night ends).  There are lots of budget travel options.

I have been through lots of places in the Philippines. OHh!!! quite not a stranger in my own country..well, SLIGHT 🙂 :-).  But heaven!!, this place is one of the MOST PICTURE PERFECT, AMAZING, HEAVENLY…I almost lost an appropriate adjectives to describe the place, but yes!!..over and over, I am willing to travel almost 10 to 12 hours just to get there.

Be adventuruous enough and experience the thrill of everyday life of the locals.  The people was so friendly and we have no fear of being nabbed.  Take chances and enjoy life.  But I am not saying that you need to spend every token of your salary to travel, just save an amount for it, and have the initiative to get a cheapest travel budget.  It’s all over the net or be among of the locals and talk to few people, learn their language and appreciate them.  Anyway, the whole package  took us a whole day, yet every corner of the place we were able to explore.  They have their own tariffa and it’s approved by the local government.

SOUVENIRS IN BANGUI

 

We got to meet a Cebuana souvenir vendors at Bangui.

THE VERY CAPTIVATING KAPURAWPURAWAN ROCK FORMATION

KAPURAPURAWAN ROCK FORMATION- Burgos, Ilocos Norte

The place reminds me of how true happiness could be found in simplicity. Its a choice though, yet, an hour or two in the place made me realize how blessed I am in my life.  Though, just like the path going to the beautiful rock  formation, there are rough terrains that we need to endure in order to see its beauty.  There are areas that are restricted but this is one way of preserving the place.  So be a law abiding citizen.

Going to Kapurawpurawan, it took us less than fifteen minutes taking another tricycle but this time, the tricycles are accreditted by the local government to take tourists to the site to prevent traffic.  It costs us less than P200.00 and another P15.00 for a maintenance fee of the area.  Still no problem with that amount.

           The Kapurpurawan rock formation is located on the rocky coast of Burgos, Ilocos Norte. It came from the Ilocano word “puraw” which means white.  The rock formation in Kapurawpuraw was sculptured  by different oceanic and weather forces through times.

The tricycle driver religously took photos for us.  He is quite nice and very accommodating.

Even the small details are well preserve 🙂

CAPE BOJEADOR LIGHTHOUSE

The tour to Cape Bojeador Lighthouse (of the Burgos Lighthouse) in Burgos, Ilocos Norte is among of the package offered to the locals.  It is quite know for many since some of the local movies and television series were shot in this beautiful place.  It is 35 kilometers from Laoag City with narrow two-laned road, but since we started our tour from Pagudpud, it’s quite few kilometers from the municipality.

Cemented Stairway going to the top of the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

 

The famous Cape Bojeador Lighthouse- amazingly beautiful .The first time I got to see a lighthouse and it was really a very fantastic experience.

The place is very peaceful and fantastic with a very cold breeze blowing from the surrounding area and the ocean not far from the lighthouse.  It stands on top of A hill called Vigia de Nagparitan Hill, overlookign Cape Bojeador.  It was built 100 years ago and still functional- it signals to the ship as the entered the Philippine territory, it was made during the Spanish era and was very useful during that time.

 

THE FAMOUS PATAPAT VIADUCT IN PAGUDPUD

The Patapat Viaduct of Pagudpud, Ilocost Norte is the 4th longest bridge in the Philippines which is 1.3 km.

HANNAH’s BEACH RESORT in Pagudpud

In Hannah’s, there is the longest zip line over open air in the country that 1 km long ride.

STINGRAY MEMORIAL

 

 

SAUD BEACHES

I should say, one of the most perfect place I have into was in PAgudpud.  As a child, I learned to dreamt many things in life even chasing them until this time, but I also never stop looking for a place to visit.  Always enjoy life, the way it should be.  Never confined yourself in the four corners of your home or office and go out and explore the world.  Me, I don’t have enough money to back me up every trip that I had, but I always make sure that I allotted a percentage of my salary for that.  There nothing wrong in travelling, exploring things, and take an adventure.  Why not try few of the beautiful spots that we had?

Travelling is one of our greatest mentor in life.  Through travelling I learned the different traditions each family had and be able to adjust with it.

FALLING IN LOVE WITH ILOCOS- VIGAN (Part 1)

This blog is about fulfilling one’s dream, facing the challenges and appreciating God’s gift and keeping the best of the past. I set multiple of goals and hoping to accomplish for this year.

Every girl has the right to fulfill her dreams, and this time, and for the first time actually, I got the courage to be a backpacker in a place which is a total stranger to me,  but I needed the break and  be able to rekindle with the lost part of me.  I knew lots of Ilocano back then, it was a leap of courage to take an adventure with only a copy of few blogs with me.  It was a very liberating experience, and so proud of it.

Right after the 2016 Holy Week, my new travel buddy headed to Manila, a stop-over going to our dream trip, ILOCOS.  It is one dream trip that I listed in my bucket list, so I was so excited to take a plunge and be a backpacker for few days and  experience the history of the province, our first stop is Vigan,  “it is a  city located in the northwestern coast of Luzon in the Philippines.  Vigan is the capital of the famous Ilocos Sur province and have gained the name as the only UNESCO World Heritage City in the Philippines, and just recently  won as one of the New Seven Wonders Cities of the World.”  Having this in mind, I was so overwhelmed to pack all my things and ready for my first ever backpacker’s trip.

boarding pass going to Manila

The photos I posted hopefully encourages people to explore our own country, because we actually had a lot to offer.

EXPLORING CALLE CRISOLOGO

What is remarkable about Calle Crisologo is how the people preserve the old houses. Motorcycles are not allowed only the “kalesa”. It’s a very beautiful place for me.

My new travel buddy, Anamor Akil at the Calle Crisologo,  Heritage Village in Vigan

We are so fortunate then that we decided to take that vacation right after the holiday since there were only few tourists flocking to experience and explore the province. Accordingly, there are 187 listed ancestral houses in the town.  The place is so interestingly amazing! 😀 😀   It was so early because we arrived at around 5:00 AM at Vigan City. After fixing ourselves, we went straight to the Heritage Village were famous houses are located.  The best advise I could give is be early, since there are only few tourists strolling the area if you come at around 5:00 AM.

When we think of Vigan we always associate it with Calle Crisologo. At first glance, I noticed that it is just a simple structure, but as we continue strolling the whole area, it made me realized the noblest life of the people in the simplest past. A friend of mine told me also that the best time to visit is during night time when the lamps are lit, but obviously during that time, I’m sure there are lots of tourists.

Here is the detail of our trip to Vigan.  Vigan City is located 408 kilometers away from Manila. From Cubao, we took the Partas Bus that took almost ten (10) hours trip. Since we never booked in a hotel, we decided to change our clothes and have some little freshen up at the Partas Bus Terminal.  We slept during the entire trip.   It was really a fun experience.

Note:  Fare for Partas Bus from Cubao to Vigan City is P645.00.

From Calle Crisologo, we hired  a tricycle which cost us P500.00 for a tour within Vigan. Though one can hire a “kalesa” for another kind of experience which cost P150.00/per hour.

At the famous Calle Crisologo, Heritage Village, Vigan City.  We started strolling around at around 5:30 in the morning and since there were only few tourists during early morning we were able to enjoy the whole place.  AMAZING!! The cobble-stoned street in Vigan is a journey to the colonial era.  During early morning, I never thought it would be that magical since we were able to enjoy the different changes of the sky that compliment the color of the houses.

 

The historical houses of Vigan specifically in the famous Calle Crisologo reminded me of the Spanish era, but the people were able to preserve the beautiful houses complete with horse carriages. It is simple, naturally old-looking, yet has survived the challenges of time.  The trip for me was so far the best historical trip I ever had.  It gave me enough understanding of my past, and the appreciation of preserving what has left for us.

Research has told me, the houses in this area were owned by some Filipino-Chinese traders whose families rose to prominence and wealth when clothing and trading industry at the Northern part of Luzon was at its peak.  Fortunately, for generations the people has preserved and maintained the place like it was before, with the Spanish architecture. Few of the old houses were converted into souvenir shops, coffee shops, restaurants and hostels.

According to some blogs, Calle Crisologo is at its worst during high noon because there are lots of tourists.  Fortunately in our part, we were able to enjoy the place for almost two (2) hours before we headed for breakfast. My tip is:  Come at dawn at around 4:30 AM until morning, its the best time.

The happiest moment while strolling at Calle Crisologo

THE DIFFERENT FACES OF VIGAN CITY

Tips:  Souvenirs at Paoay and Laoag are quite expensive than Vigan and Pagudpud.  However, in Bangui Windmill area, we were able to buy some souvenirs, even the t-shirts at the cheaper prices.

The famous Basi Wine in Vigan

THE TASTE OF VIGAN CITY

For me, checking and trying the cuisine is one I always consider when visiting a place.  Since I already had the the taste of some Ilocano foods, I simply want to have it cooked in its place of original, and Vigan never denied it from US. Funny but true, since I am a Jadine fan, I tried and asked the locals of the exact hotel where this famous couple stayed, thankfully, it was just within the area, Cosina Ilocana, where we had our breakfast.

I learned to savour the foods of the Ilocano, and during the trip, of course, I tried the best of what they have.

The Vigan longaganisa is a small and plump native sausage, good for about two or three bites and stuffed with lots of garlic.  Honestly, until now I cannot fully appreciate it but maybe after many tries who knows I will be able to love it.

Note: Vigan Empanada is different from Laoag Empanada, and I have tasted the latter. Laoag Empanada uses achuete so it has a very attractive color.  IT was my first time to have a taste of it, but I am looking forward to try over and over in the future.

The two Empanada’s of Ilocos have basically the same ingredients: rice flour for the crust with or without achuete and for the Laoag Empanada it uses an achuete; filling of egg and mongo sprout or parboiled mongo or grated green papaya for ordinary orders, and additional Ilocos longanisa for special.

And never forget the every famous Bagnet.  Bagnet is a pork belly meat in deep fried format and an Ilocano original and version of a lechon kawali.

THE STRUCTURES AND LANDSCAPE

On of the most striking feature in this place is the bell tower, The Bantay Bell Tower standing in the beautiful  landscape hill nearby a church.  Like most of the bell towers, it served as the protector against the enemies during the World War I and World War II.

Have you remember the And Panday The Movie? this is where the ball of fire struck of one of the scene of the movie, and I cannot imagine I was standing right at this place. Uhhmmm…impossible dreams also do come true.  So never give up on your dreams.

 

View from the top of the Bantay Tower

 

A good view of the colorful cemetery from the top of the Bantay Tower.

I never got the best shot for one of Vigan’s prominent landmark, the ST. PAUL’s METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL.

The driver of the tricycle we hired generously toured us around without even telling him (actually Ilocos Region for me is the most friendly for tourists and backpackers), and he brought us to Vigan’s Pagburnayan, for some, it is the iconic pottery area in the city.  Most of the burnay jars are exported to other countries especially in some part of Europe.

Abel is a traditional woven product in Ilocos Region specifically in Vigan.

Even before I am fascinated with colorful fabrics in Benguet, and since Vigan is also known of Abel Loom Weaving, I never failed to visit one of the Weaving Village in the City.  Abel is a traditional woven product in Ilocos Region.  The tradition is pass for generations to generations, in fact the antique furniture used for weaving is already considered an heirloom for some families.  And one will be surely amaze of how this people make this tradition and intrinsic part of their lives.

 

HIDDEN GARDEN OF VIGAN- DISCOVER THE PLACE

Vigan and the rest of the Ilocos Region for me is a perfect place to unwind, it has almost everything you wanted, from journey of the past, enjoying the beauty of nature to the beautiful resorts, yet, I myself had not anticipated this beautiful paradise.  At first glance  Hidden Garden, is just like a regular garden, but what is so amazing is we kept on discovering what is inside the garden. Yes, the name is perfectly a complete description of the place itself.    Note:  There is a restaurant at the Hidden Garden where the tourist could grab something to eat, from meals up to the snacks.

 

ENJOY AND EXPLORE OUR OWN COUNTRY!!!! ❤ ❤ ❤  😀

LIFE’s ONE GREATEST GIFT

In every journey in life, I met different people who stayed with me through the years.  In this very important moment, I want to share some greatest journey I had with this wonderful people.  I owe a page of my blog to somehow share the best ever “not so special occasion” but created a memory of a lifetime.  I have great friends and they are among of those I cannot live behind. We live half a Philippines away, I got to see them usually once year, but my love for them never changed in a single.

They are my good friends, who were like a family to me. 

It’s common knowledge that long distance relationships are difficult and most likely doomed, but for me, it is a chance to keep the bond stronger.  It is not easy but a challenge.

NOw that I am halfway away, I tried not to lose track with them. An honest and adult best-friendship can challenge you in ways for which you can never prepare. Like most friendships, the biggest hurdle in ours is being apart. And as I always said, I always feel so blest to have them in my life and I will never get tired to keep them in my lifetime.

Like many people, I’ve had to make the decision between a path of certainty and a path of the unknown and I chose the unknown. Even though I’m content with the decision I made and the road it’s taking me down, if I’d known back then that it would take me so far from the best friends I’ve ever had, I’m still not certain I would do it all again. In a way, being apart has made our connection stronger. It was hard when we were separated after I decided to transfer to my province,   but when we went our separate ways to find careers and lives of our own, we found that no distance could ever take away the home base that is our friendship.

            Through time this people gave me so much joy.

 

 

THE ART OF TRAVELLING

I spent 8 hours a day and five times a week attending my duty at work.  For the past years in my life, I craved for travels. Nothing is wrong with it. One really needs to have her own time to enjoy a day.I guess I needed a break that could take me back to my old momentum before a year ends. Honestly, there came into my life when I felt so empty, overwhelmed with too many worries while still coping up with  big adjustments, and I needed to break free from all those untowards anxities. Questions hunting me for months for an unknown fear or the thought that I was already drained from chasing on things that I wanted so fast, still doubtful for so many things.

For the last couple of months, I focused myself into doing the things that I really need to do for the most anticipated financial stability.  This is to finance myself for the possible expenses that I might be creating for another months. So many things that I really need to focus before leaping into another milestone of studying and doing business at the same time.  But for now, i simply want to share another travel I have been into together with my colleagues.  I already posted several photos i took during my visit to one of the most beautiful island here in Bohol, Pamilacan.  IT is a place of serenity.  I love Pamilacan.

Beauty from a distance of the destroyed Immaculate Concepcion Church in Baclayon

A simple step could take you to anywhere, just have the courage to do it. Start enjoying life and start with a single step 🙂 ❤

I like to think that I am pretty strong person. I’ve been living in Manila having myself alone, yet inspite of it, sometimes, I underselling myself and even questioned my capabilities when personal and family problem came, but I challenged myself of doing the things other people could do. I never been a passive person, playing supporting roles. I always been the lead even in the men’s world, but most of the time then, I felt the pain of taking the lead.  I simply wanted to relax.   Seriously, sometimes, I want to be a damsel in distress. But who will care? 😦

But today, allow me to unload my heart, this is fast and you will enjoy.  Sharing photos might be a great help.

Boat that could take us to PAmilacan. Pamilacan Island can only be reach through boat.  No other means of transportation since no bridge is connected from the mainland.

When the sky meet the water A clear blue sky with blue water.

Lengthy sand bar.

The beauty of island is amazing with it’s powder white sands. There are beautiful places in Bohol and Pamilacan Island was one of the most lovely places I visited, where yone can see the sky and water meld into each other so seamlessly.

Enjoying a day with no less than kuya Lawrence. (Photo taken Maam Anamor Akil)

I posted several pictures in my recent blogs about Pamilacan Island, but everyday I got the chance to visit the island, my love and admiration undeniably renewed.  No doubt this place is a paradise. (All the pictures are unedited, this is my way of knowing whether I have the progress in my photograph).

FISHES IN THE OCEAN 🙂

Fresh new catch

Blue Starfish (Wondering)

RED CORALS

Life changing experiences happened in different ways and even in the most simple incident in life.  From the harsh reality of busy world, I aimed to spend a time for myself meditating on how to go on, picking few pieces of me shattered by the material world and I came to realized taking a break is one of the best thing to reconcile with my inner self. A day can create a difference in my own core.

THE DIFFERENT FACES DURING OUR DAY TOUR:

KUYA LAWRENCE

KUYA LAWRENCE AND GABRIEL

I encountered different characters along the way, but somehow it could give me enough wisdom to decide on things without judging.  During my break I learned not enough neutrality but courage to stand what is right, because at the end of the day what matters most are the people who  came into my life which became part of who I am.

wITH THE TEAM

SHARING STORIES OVER ARRAY OF FOODS AND DRINKS, A BEST WAY TO RELAX AND ENJOY NATURE

In the next few months, I will be updating my blog again, because at last I am back to my old self doing the things I really, really love. I will be posting places that made me cry, laugh, smile, dream, inspire and love.  Places that made me feel I’m alive. 🙂 🙂 ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤

JUST ANOTHER DAY TO BE GRATEFUL

Even before the start of summer, I already planned to spend it enjoying and taking vacations. It is always one of the best season for me. So what’s all about my 2014 summer?

Taking the opportunity to enjoy my life, it seems the whole world just close to me like a door waiting to be opened.

I just took every opportunity…and there lies…waiting to be opened.

I am sharing few of the photos during my vacation from  Luzon to Mindanao.  EVERYTHING!!! 🙂  ❤ ❤ …I am so excited !!! yahhhooooo!!!

     My first visit to the crater of the famous Taal Volcano.  My summer may not be that perfect because I was away from my family, but I never skipped an opportunity to enjoy myself.

I brought my family here in Manila to spend the vacation with them.  Though the vacation was just short, but it was still worthy spending moments with them.

What is my summer is all about?  How far my learning go?

Maybe I mean everything…the love, the fun, the adventure, the wanderlust, the risk taking, everything…

 

I became  fearless with every adventures I tried,  I just realized I am after all good at it .

I never realized how much I value the time I spent the days of my vacations.  I listed my wishlists in my bucket list, every now and then, everything seemed slowly unfold.  God is so good.  HE give me everything that I never thought I wanted before, but here it is!

I never thought I could go beyond the limits, but yes, I did! Rock Climbing and CLiff Jumping…

 

Giving myself a chance to be a model in the famous “NAKED ISLAND” in Surigao.

 

 

OH!!!I am just so overwhelmed to share all the selected photos during my vacations.

 

ANAWANGIN COVE, PUNDAQUIT, ZAMBALES:

CORON, PALAWAN:

Proud to pose above the Kayangan Lake.

Posing with the members of  Tagbanua Tribe in Coron, Palawan.

Coron is one of the best diving spot in the world with it’s majestic and stunning corals and it’s rich of diversity of marine life, but, some of those corals were badly destroyed by the Yolanda.

Parking is more fun in the Philippines…. 🙂

      Entrance to the famous Twin Lagoon.  During low tide it serves as the entrance, however, during high tide you can use the ladder and have a free dive to be able to go to the second lagoon.  According to our tour guide, the deepest is 80 feet.

Encircled by gigantic limestone cliffs,what truly amazed me during my Coron adventure was the limestone formations that composed the islets.  Accordingly, there are different kinds of limestone that composed islands, one of those are coral limestone which is the composition of the island of Bohol, and here in Coron,it is said to be of  Permian limestone of jurassic origin.

More to discover some beautiful places in the Philippines.

What will be my next adventure?

 

PARADISE ON EARTH

One of the best vacation as to date was taking the break from my busy schedules and enjoy the moments.  A first I was skeptical of going to the vacation but I never regret a moment of going.

Greeted by the majestic landscape of the place, it is really a paradise here on earth. I never heard much about its beauty, but as I stepped down, why not figuring it out by myself. The experience, the sleepless nights did not disappoint me.  The only downside of going there was leaving my cards empty.

    Socorro in Surigao is the home of the stingless jellyfish..

MAJESTIC LANDSCAPE OF CARAGA REGION

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – St. Augustus

Almost seven (7) years ago, Agusan del Norte has been a part of my heart, no doubt I have good memories on the place, but honestly, then, I was not amazed with the vibrant beauty of the place not until I spent almost 5 (5) days and four (4) nights IN THIS VERY AMAZING CARAGA REGION.

I love travelling, exploring different kinds of adventures.

I decided to collect landscape shots from my travel which I took personally without having it edited, using my SONY Digital Camera and at this travel, using the borrowed Nikon D3100.

Let me share some landscape photos that I really chose for my blog and for my coffee table book.

          The view of Butuan City from the plane.

Butuan is the commerce capital of Caraga Region. Though it’s not that urbanized and industrialized if compared to other cities, yet for me it’s one of the most inviting place to visit. The moment we gone out from the arrival area of the airport, I was stunt by the rice fields in the area. I grew up in a little province of Bohol, and Caraga is one of the best place I’ve gone.

There is no need for a filter to see the beauty of the landscapes of CARAGA Region.

     Port Going to the Bucas Grande, Socorro, Surigao del Norte

       Dilapidated boat that caught my attention as we stepped from the boat.  It’s actually became a subject for a photograph.

    There are islets in Bucas Grande, Surigao del Norte.  Paradise hidden in paradise as i described it.  Words are not enough to fully described the hidden beauty of the place, thanks God it is still not commercialize.  I am crossing my fingers the next generation will be able to see it’s beauty and enjoy it, because as far as I have noticed, mountains around Surigao del Norte are exploited by many miners, most of them are foreign investors.  Let us just hope that politicans will be able to see the future effects of this.  Their place is truly amazing, hoping again they will have the heart to preserve it, not only for them but for the future generations.

       The beauty of Caraga Region is truly unlimited, I cannot imagine seeing such a great and amazing God’s masterpiece before my eyes.  Honestly, the whole trip was kind of tiring because of a distant travel, but all the stress and pleasures from work and from the travel was vanished as we saw the whole island that truly left me speechless the whole island hoping.  Thanks God I was given the chance to see God’s perfect arts.

    Anyway, I got  lot of pictures for this blog and for the next blogs, I will surely showcase all of them.

Pebble Beach, with so sands at all.

 Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig, Surigao del Sur

For my next blog, i will be writing about the an “Enchanted River” as they called it., but the moment i took my eyes on it, it was like owwww!!!it’s magical!

So watch out for my next blogs…Hope the next you plan your vacation, you will include in your list the Caraga Region.

WHEN GOD DECIDED TO RENEW THE FACE OF THE EARTH

October 15, Holiday.

I was so excited talking to my family because i sent money to take our kids to Jollibee.  After i ended the call, another text message i received telling me the worst news, my hometown, Bohol and the rest of the Central Visayas region was hit by a 7.2 magnitude earthquake.

I turned the television.  There was no  news at that moment.  I was shaking, I thought of my family and friends. It was a horrible moment to me until i decided to turn my attention to the computer asking the Lord to tell me that all i have heard few minutes ago was all lie.

All the pains of the Boholanos, the traumas may not be healed easily, but I do believe, the dust will eventually settle and we will live the way we used to be.

I always pray that we will be able to stand, STRONGER AND BRAVER. BELIEVING THAT GOD WILL GUIDE AND BLESS US AS WE STRUGGLE TOWARDS THE HEALING!

The pictures below were taken by the Boholanos:

THIS IS MY BELOVED DAUIS CHURCH, otherwise known as the “VIRGEN DE LA ASSUMPTION CHURCH” in Dauis, Bohol

I grow up in this church, this is where i spend my Christmas…Our church make us of who we are now.  I remember every time i visit the place, i always dream to walk down the aisle of this church.  But time came, when the beloved church rubble into pieces and the facade turned into powder.  I could not help but cry.  I thought of making a blog, a  week ago, but it’s only up to now i was able to gather my strength to start my writing and dedicate a portion of my blog to my beloved province which suffered from too much devastation after a big earthquake that almost lost our hope.  But now, I believe we are going to stand again.  Our churches may have broken, but not our faith.

Accordingly, the Dauis church’s style was influenced by both Byzantine and Romanesque architecture. On its ceiling were frescoes painted by church artist Ray Francia in 1916.

Our beloved Dauis Church after the Earthquake:

Our province of Bohol is blest with centuries-old churches that we are proud of.  Through many stages of our lives, churches are always part of our lives.  Through the struggles we have, churches are our last refuge.  But our faith in God does not end upon the destruction of our churches.  Miracles happened every second, and we believe on it.

I hope the owners of  pictures will  forgive me from posting their captures in my  blog.

LOBOC CHURCH after the earthquake:

Loboc church is the second oldest church in Bohol built sometime in 17th century.

BACLAYON CHURCH, the “IMMACULATE CONCEPCION CHURCH in Baclayon, Bohol is the oldest in Bohol and second oldest in the Philippines:

(I will give credit to my uncle Ralph Castillo for this beautiful picture of Baclayon Church).  I know the  churches we have in Bohol cannot be restored the way we wanted it to be.  I owe to the next generations to have a glimpse of what we have before we lost the churches.

BACLAYON CHURCH after the earthquake:

LOON CHURCH , the “BIRHEN SA KASILAK CHURCH OR THE CHURCH OF LIGHT” in Loon, Bohol: (Before and after the earthquake):

So sad, but the Loon church rubble into pieces like powder, with the statute of Mamy Mary standing in the middle, for us Catholic devotees it is a miracle.  God is trying to tell us that He won’t leave us in pain.

TUBIGON CHURCH:

TUBIGON CHURCH after the earthquake:

MARIBOJOC CHURCH:

MARIBOJOC CHURCH after the earthquake:

LOAY CHURCH:

LOAY CHURCH after the earthquake:

Churches were crumpled but not our faith in God.

PAMILACAN ISLAND : Step To A Paradise

Among the best place to visit in Bohol is the Pamilacan Island.  It is a way to explore the natural beauty and marine world and an island escapades for relaxation away from the fast life back in the city.  Other than Tarsiers and Chocolate Hills, Bohol has much to offer to the world, the beauty continues to the underwater bloom  and pristine marine life, white sand beaches and the simplicity that has not yet commercialized. Let’s go and explore Pamilacan Island at it’s best.

Seaward to Pamilacan Island.

OFF TO PAMILACAN ISLAND
The Island hopping should start at 5:30 am to be able to get a glimpse of dolphins

We started our island hopping at around 5:30 am to be able to get a glimpse of dolphins but unfortunately we were not able to watch dolphins during the trip since there are big waves.  According to our guides, dolphin are more visible when the sea is calm.

It took us almost 45 minutes to be able to reach the island. Since during the trip there was a southwest monsoon (habagat).

The weather was very sunny (we were lucky because in Manila and Luzon there were heavy rains due to habagat and “Bagyong Maring” (Storm Maring in particular), and most part of Northern Luzon including Metro Manila were flooded.

PAMILACAN ISLAND ON A CLEAR DAY!!

Pamilacan is just a very small island, it is one of the barangays of Baclayon, Bohol. It is less frequented by tourist. It has a rustic and tropical like paradise that you cannot simply afford to ignore. The place is very, very simple with open cottages, carefree living of the folks and i beautiful and wide stretch of shoreline.

ST. ISIDRO DE LABARADOR CHAPEL in Pamilacan Island

I’ve been in Pamilacan twice.  I never failed to visit their small chapel to thank God for a safe trip coming to the island and prayed for another safe trip back to the mainland.

TRIANGULAR SPANISH WATCH TOWER

I haven’t experience the snorkeling here, quite not ready to do it for now.  My father, Papa Cinto told me there is fast current of water.  For me to be able to explore the water without a fear of of losing my balance, i guess i should be ready to do that. Promise the next time I will be in Pamilacan Island, i would not missed the opportunity to dive and explore the wonders of the underwater.

What is amazing about the people in Pamilacan Island is after few decades of capturing some species including those endangered marine species, the fishermen who destroyed and hunted marine resources are now the ambassadors of protecting their precious gems.

Accordingly, “Sighting of whale sharks, the largest of the extant fish species, are also common around the island, especially around full moon when plankton is most plentiful. Subsequently, the community has organized whale shark interaction tours which supports the island’s fishermen community, using their paddle boats as the only form of transportation allowed near the whale sharks for the safety of the amazing giant creatures. Consequently, Pamilacan Island has been the recipient of numerous awards from tourism councils and environmental organization in recognition of their remarkable makeover” (Sources)

Simplicity at its best.

My Footprints in the Sand

Valuing the memories of every step i take in my life, every journey towards my dreams.  My past will always be a part of who and what I am today.  Be with me always as i TRAVEL , DREAM AND BUILD MY MEMORIES.

SEVILLA, BOHOL : SIPATAN HANGING BRIDGE – A DAY I CAME TO FACE THE BRIDGE THAT HOLD MY HEART

The title seemed quite unusual. Well, this was what my heart dictated as i tapped the keys of the laptop.

This place was  very special for me then.  I got the opportunity to  face with my fears, and i am so happy that i was able to make it.

Number of pictures posted, a remembrance of what i called a “brave move to healing”.  There are always meanings in every word, but the pictures are the best to define what i am feeling right now.

at Ewon, Sevilla, Bohol

The Sevilla Hanging Bridge crossing the Sipatan River in Sevilla, Bohol is a fun tourist attraction that should be included in the lists for a day tour.

starting the journey towards the end of the bridge..

Originally constructed using just bamboo and rope, today the rope has made way to steel cables, giving added safety and stability.The deck of the bridge is formed out of woven bamboo slats. In places some of these appear broken but its still sturdy enough to take the weight of tourists, locals and even small motorcycles.

CONQUER THE FEAR AND BELIEVE THAT YOU COULD MAKE IT

with BABY CJ, VERY HAPPY CROSSING THE BRIDGE

The HANGING BRIDGE laid to over 20 to 30 meters high above and spans 40 meters long  woven bamboo slats with steel cable wires as hand rails. There are already two bridges to prevent the foot traffic.  I was truly amazed with the tranquility and emerald Sipatan River. I am so proud to be here and enjoy the thrill of going and facing my fears.

Don’t be surprise, upon crossing the bridge, and as a tourist, one should pay at least P20.00 for the entrance fee, the proceeds will be used for the development and maintenance of the bridge, enough to enjoy its thrill yet some way or another, we are able to help the locals to have a means of getting into the another village just right across. It was a refreshing experience for me.

Crossing the bridge, is a great challenge because it makes you feel nauseous and dizzy because of its right to left swaying and also up and down movement.

Visiting the place is actually not a waste of time. Pour your heart into it and start loving your fears.