CATANDUANES- Not just your Typical Typhoon Magnet

CATANDUANES is one of the places in the Philippines that seldom exist in my thought. I never had any interest in exploring this silent terrain, even 'google-ing'. It came as a surprise that we just booked a flight in this not-so-interesting-in-my-mind province.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

We've been in Legaspi City on the same year at earlier month, and took a closer encounter with Mayon Volcano. We are convinced then that the cone is indeed almost perfect. But what we witnessed during our flight to Catanduanes in an early morning, this cone is so enchanting that does not require any camera tricks & Photoshop to display a natural beauty.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

Touchdown is Virac, the Province' Capital. Clueless where to go, since even the night before our flight- we were not decided if we will proceed (there was an upcoming typhoon in Luzon on the same day of our flight) or not. We prompted to approach a local trike driver (Kuya Bert) to help us find a reasonable accommodation. Not disappointed, sightseeing was immediately came after we got refreshed from the hotel.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

MARIBINA FALLS in Bato Town- untouched by urbanization, has a simple but inviting amenities. Simply sit down on any rock formation and enjoy a pick-on-the-same-day fresh coconut from a local traders.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

The cool water from the falls is associated with scents from the mountain- a far better from any river in the cities. A strange feeling is felt in dipping to the water- a feeling that this place should be respected in any time.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

Next stop was LUYANG CAVE in San Andres. Not fond of being in a cave, we did not dare to go more far from the cave's opening. There was an eerie feeling as soon as you enter this site. It is believed that- some Japanese soldiers were not able to surfaced from hiding here during World War II.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

BATO CHURCH is one of the must-see churches in the country. A century-old religious site, it houses a significant work of art from the Spanish era and successfully preserved up to the present generation. Situated in the hillside, any visitor will have a chance to glimpse a local river where livelihood of the local folks came.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

Stained glasses of the church will catch the attention of any first-time visitor. It depicts the creativity and strong influence of the Spanish in the province.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

The next morning was the expected highlight of the trip- getting to PURARAN BEACH. Since I am a fanatic of Surfing, this water sport activity is the biggest factor why we proceeded to visit this province. Warned by our tour guide that it would take us a couple of hours to three by boarding his powerful trike (yeah, you read it right), we braved the one of the roughest road in the country- mountain by mountain. But traveling in this kind of countryside would be considered as a privilege- seeing the vast area of the province from the hightops, witnessing the local lifestyle- simple and peaceful and greeted by sincere smiles in every corner of the road.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

Been in the different beaches in Asia Pacific and proudly will tell you that the most beautiful beaches in the world will be found here in the Philippines. PURARAN BEACH proves again this truth. Sand quality is at par with those found in Puka Beach in Boracay Island. No sign of devastation, this beach would give you the tranquility and calmness away from the bustling and noisy cities.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

Invited by its beauty, walking along the shore will make you realized how God gives too much blessings in this land, that this province is not just a simple regular route of the incoming typhoon. Safe to say, PURARAN BEACH can be considered a lover's Island, perfect for a beach wedding and soul-searching.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

Rocks are romantically formed in some area of the stretch. It gives a good visual effect and ideal swimming area for water neophytes.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

And who would be the most attracted and front-runner in this Island? Surfers would definitely be in the list. But the Island's invitation is not limited for them alone. Just pack your simple enthusiasm and interest- the guarantee that you'll fall in love in this place is there.

From Majestic CATANDUANES

Wave quality would not disappoint any surfer- but only for the advanced and for the pro in the league. Wave site would require any surfer to paddle further and lil' bit farther from the shoreline. As expeted, local surfers showcased their mastery in the sport.

Although PURARAN BEACH can be hardly compared to SIARGAO Island in terms of surfing, it's accessibility to reach from Manila gives an edge over the latter.

Moreover, accommodation, foods and airfare are very reasonable.

Cam-Sur Water-Sport Complex (CWC)

WAKEBOARDING

From CWC

I was very hesitant of doing this blog for CWC.

First, it is a man-made recreational place. 2nd, I have a few photos from this place. 3rd, I just stayed here for almost 3-hour side visit from Donsol and Legaspi.

But I ended-up having a thought to write something about this new destination in Cam-Sur.

From CWC

Having promoted by the local government of Naga City, given the credits to their Governor-Gov. LRay Villafuerte, you can find CWC in most of the reading materials even if you are abroad. True enough, I saw the huge bunch of caucasians, non-caucasians and asians lining- up to the cable-assisted water sports.

From CWC

I never let myself being tied behind. Although I am into surfing and skateboarding, I still went through the Beginner's Stage. From here, you have to bend your knees- in your begging position. You have to hold on to the cable, as if you are playing a thug-of-war mode.

From CWC

The trial was worth-waiting (you have to queue for about 10-15 minutes) and one thing was sure, I will also be hooked in this kind of sports. With the facilities and accommodations that this sports complex offers, budget is not a big problem. There are air-conditioned nipa huts that can accommodate a couple of guests for a night without breaching a thousand bucks!

From CWC

I was told that the tourism in this province had been significantly increased and still counting in visitors not only from the domestic sector but from the foreign market as well. Local and international competitions are frequent with participants from very low profile up to an-almost-a-celebrity personalities.

From CWC

How to get here? Simply book your flight From Manila to Naga and vice versa. Asian Spirit, Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airline are now serving this route.
Another option is via land travel. Book you non-air conditioned, air conditioned to lazy boy Penafrancia Bus in Araneta Center, Cubao and viola! you'll be in CWC.


Want a hassle-free travel? just book with us and we'll do the rest for you. =)

Semana Santa- Baliuag, Bulacan

PINOY PILGRIMS

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

Being hailed as the only Christian/Catholic Country in Asia, it is not surprising that the Philippines is known worldwide in celebrating every Christian event. It is said that the essence of being a Christian/Catholic is everyone's recognition of the Easter- the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The highlight of this event is the SEMANA SANTA (Holy Week).

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

The event commences on Palm Sunday- where many Filipinos will go to church bringing their Palaspas- A variety of palm with different shapes and designs. These palm leaves will be blessed by holy water after the celebration of mass. This tradition depicts the joyous entry of Jesus Christ to the Jerusalem.

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

During Holy Monday up to Holy Wednesday, pilgrims have different religious activities nationwide. Confessions, reflections and visiting old churches are very common. One of the practices out of this festival is the VISITA IGLESIAS- or the traditional visitation of 7 different churches.

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

The Quiapo Church would most likely in the list. This Century-old structure lies within the very heart of Manila. Home of the Senior Nazareno (the famous miraculous statue of Jesus Christ being celebrated on every 9th of January every year), this church is very accessible to anyone who seeks miracle.

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

Basilica de San Sebastian or San Sebastian Church- Looking at its Gothic spires, one would not think that San Sebastian is constructed of prefabricated steel. The story goes that the Augustinian Recollect Order, having seen their church thrice leveled to the ground by earthquakes, decided to have the new one cast in steel so that it would endure Manila's temblors.

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

With its vaulted ceilings, jewel-like stained glass windows and generally romantic air, San Sebastian is understandably a much-favored itinerary in Visita Iglesia and also famous venue for weddings.

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

The original San Miguel or Saint Michael Church was constructed in 1630s as an act of gratitude by a Spanish governor-general who had miraculously escaped death on a military campaign. The church also ministered to Japanese Christians fleeing persecution under the Tokugawa Shogunate, and since many of these exiles belonged to the samurai, or warrior, class, the church was dedicated to Saint Michael, the dragon-slayer. The present church, notable for the beautiful symmetry of its twin bell towers, follows the mold of European Baroque architecture. Because of its proximity, the church is often associated with Malacanang Palace .

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

Going back to Baliuag, the very highlight of this town is on Good Friday. Fortunately, I was raised and grew-up on this religious place. Here, we are taught of celebrating this event in not going places to such as popular beaches in the Philippines. We inherited the values of Christian living to reflect and join the Lord in his journey and passions.

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

Today, Baliuag is now recognized as having the most colorful and longest procession of almost 90 carozas or floats with life-size statue depicting every scene in Jesus Christ's Passion.

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

Filipinos are known loving to their parents, especially to their mothers, it could not ignore our great devotion to the the Blessed Virgin Mary- the patron Saint of the Philippines. As the whole nation is aware of all the pains she suffered- as Mary- the Virgin, she witnessed all the hardships and compassions of Jesus Christ to mankind.

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

This float has almost 12 statue-characters from the Holy Book's event. Dressed in bright colors, anyone would agree that these people has a great taste in fashion and arts.

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

In bigger caroza, it would surely need an assistance from the procession's attendant to clear all the pavements and cliff-hanging branches of trees.

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

Dominated by the most-of-the-grieving-women characters, many are dressed-up coming from designs in Paris and Italy, first-time visitor will be confused if she/he is Spain or some other part in Europe.

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

But the true essence of the celebration is not set aside. Reminiscing God's gift to all of us...

From Pilgrimage in Baliuag, Bulacan

...to be a genuinely true Christians that we could share to the whole world.

(if you want to witness this once-a-year festival, you may contact us for your convenience)

PAHIYAS Festival

WORLD'S ONE OF THE MOST COLORFUL FESTIVALS

From PAHIYAS Festival 2009

Seasons of Merry Making in the Philippines is endless- aside from being hailed as having the longest and merriest celebration of Christmas, thanks to the traditions that the Spanish colonizer gifted to us. PAHIYAS Festival can be considered bravely by every Filipino as One of the World's Colorful Festival- if not one of the brightest (literally, since there are no presence of abundant lights in the province).

From PAHIYAS Festival 2009

'Pahiyas' is derived from local Filipino word 'payas' which means- to decorate and acclaimed as the fiesta of all fiestas. Celebrated every 15th day of May every year, the Pahiyas festival transforms the small town of Lucban in Quezon from ordinary to extravagant sight. Originated as a pagan harvest celebration, it is now commemorated in honor of San Isidro Labrador- the Patron Saint of Farmers, peasant and laborers used to be a farmer in Madrid.

From PAHIYAS Festival 2009

Preparation for Pahiyas Festival is tedious and requires a lot of skills, but only celebrated only for a short period. The most anticipated sight to see is the colorful decoration of houses made from fruits, vegetables, and kipings.

From PAHIYAS Festival 2009

The locals believed that the practice started when the farmers offered harvest at the foot of Mount Banahaw. The tradition changed eventually and and the food offering was brought to the church. They bring the harvest to have more blessings and believed that this ritual was essential because the were told failure to do so could bring deprivation, death and misfortune to the town.

From PAHIYAS Festival 2009

In keeping the tradition alive, the locals agreed to display their harvest in front of their houses where the parish priest would come to bless the harvest during the procession of the image of San Isidro Labrador.

From PAHIYAS Festival 2009

Because of the economic situation, the town decided that every year, only the assigned houses would participate by means of competition- the best of the decorative and creative design of the Pahiyas during the festival. After the competition, all the decorations will be thrown away to the people. But the important thing to prove that you have been to Lucban is seeing the colorful kipings and tasting the delicious Pancit Habhab and Longanisang Lucban.

From PAHIYAS Festival 2009

KIPINGS are leaf-shaped rice wafers brilliantly dyed in colors- in red, fuschia, green, yellow and in other radiant colors. The leaves used include the kabal, kape (brown coffee tree leaf), talisay (umbrella tree), kakaw (cocoa tree) and saba (cooking banana). A kiping becomes more attractive when it catches the rays of the sun, turning it into downpour of eye-catching colors.

From PAHIYAS Festival 2009

They say, the procedure in making the kiping is a secret and only the chosen ones will be entrusted to make it.

So, get your best and favorite sneakers or rubber shoes, water bottles, cameras, video camera, hats, and umbrellas. Welcome to the Pahiyas Festival!

Donsol's Whale Shark (Buntanding)

Whale Shark Capital of the World

I very first heard & read about Whale Shark (Bundating) sometime in 1998 in Philippine Daily Inquirer. I was very fascinated with the story even then and dreamt of someday, I will be able to interact with this God's gift to Donsol. Before 1997, the World's popular Whale Shark Tour was in Nigaloo Reef, West of Australia, where the hopefuls enlisted the aid of a light spotter plane. Aside from being rather sky-rocketing price- $400-$500 or P20,000-P25,000 per person, whale shark interaction was not guaranteed.

It took me about 11 years to fulfill this dream. It was first week of March 2009 then, when I decided to brave and travel this once sleepy town- the Donsol. Little did the world know that for years, fishermen is Donsol were shooing away dozens of friendly, lumbering sharks bumping into their nets. And since 1998, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)- a global conseravation group has played a crucial role in establishing a community-based ecotourism by facilitating fund-sourcing and stakeholder mobilization for the conservation of the species- now deemed by the DOT as the flagship of ecotourism destination and one of the best attractions in Bicol Region.

From Donsol Sorsogon- Home of the Gentle Giants

Landing on the Province of Bicol will give you the first treat- the Panoramic view of Mayon Volcano. But that was another story I've told. Traveling more than 2-hour drive was worth-waiting.

From Donsol Sorsogon- Home of the Gentle Giants

Local flora surrounding the town will give you the relief and additional entertainment as you wait for the next day for the interaction. (Unless otherwise, you arrived as early as 7:00am, you can immediately have your Butanding Tour).

From Donsol Sorsogon- Home of the Gentle Giants

Dash of gold through the horizon has another factor for you to have the thoughts that this place is really blessed. As the night gets deeper, another treat awaits you.

From Donsol Sorsogon- Home of the Gentle Giants

Fireflies are very abundant in Ogod and Donsol Rivers. (I felt so sorry because any camera couldn't capture their great assembly in every mangrove that surrounds the rivers). The magic happens only a night, of course. Where the enchantment begins after the sun sets and the beauty is revealed when the darkness descends. This is the nightlife in Donsol, where the place is so quiet and all you can hear is the nature. The enchanted beauty of these thousands of nocturnal insects inhabit the two rivers and provide the glow around the mangrove trees- like Christmas lights that these flicker of lights takes the shape of the tree.

From Donsol Sorsogon- Home of the Gentle Giants

The following morning, after attending a brief but important orientation, we sailed an accredited motor boat with Whale Shark spotter and guide. Here, before plunging on the water, the guide will give you the last minute reminders about the Butanding's behavior.

From Donsol Sorsogon- Home of the Gentle Giants

Here it was, the excitement begun! You cannot control yourself and be excited- this caused me to drank sea water as I've face this gentle giant.

From Donsol Sorsogon- Home of the Gentle Giants

This was the first glimpse I have! My head swelled and felt like it burst when it I saw this creature. I want to wake up, thinking that I was only in a big dream. But no, it was a reality, so I have to conquer my fear and play with this long-time subject from my must-see list.

From Donsol Sorsogon- Home of the Gentle Giants

The second Butanding I encountered was as big as a mini-bus. Seemed like I was in a big movie house's screen while this gentle giant passed through where I was. The urge of my fascination has triggered me to play along with the sea creature. I clearly observed that Butanding are mindless of those who wanted to see them up-close. Their eyes are too small, big wide mouth and large fins!

From Donsol Sorsogon- Home of the Gentle Giants

Foreigners are having fun scoring an underwater videos. Who wouldn't resist? After all, it is considered as the Best Animal encounter in Asia according to

From TIME