A Quick Visit to Siquijor

Siquijor, my province, after all these years, is getting better and better. Its even better from the last time I came home.  Its been 5 years from my last visit and I saw a lot of changes. One of the many things that never changed is the province's cleanliness. Photo on top is from Talingting where a lone tree stands by the white sand beach.  This is just beside the road. 

You can see the pier so clean. The port itself has crystal blue waters. Looking at these is pretty much amazing if you can ask me. Ived been travelling around the country and this is probably the only pier with such blue water. Usually its filthy.

This is actually my first time to ride a van, rolled on to a boat and shipped from Dumaguete to Siquijor. Usually we just ride the tricycle and go straight at my Lola's house in Larena. But this time since we brought lola from Manila, we made sure she's all comfy sitting from the van. We rented this brand new Toyota Hi Ace Grandia from Dumaguete and we rolled on rolled off to Siquijor Island. 

First stop is the town of Siquijor.  We had brunch their and visited one of the oldest church in town, the St. Francis of Asisi Church. They renovated the church. The roof has new paint and the landscaping is really nice. Place is really clean as well. No rubbish or leaves scattered around. Its just perfect. 

This is the first Jollibee in Siquijor. Change is inevitable. If you can notice, there are a lot of tourists around. I heard that it is one of the main income of the province. Thats why big companies are starting to creep in to our humble island. I am somehow afraid and happy for this. Im scared coz it can drive the small business away. The good thing is that it can generate a lot of jobs in the island. Shortly after our visit, the 1st McDonalds openned. I saw a branch of Nuat Thai, a branch of Mang Inasal and a few more sprouting within the island. 

As we were driving around, we stopped by Siquijor Island's airport which is undergoing construction.  As of now, small planes can land here. By the administration's build build build project, sooner than you think we can have direct flights from Manila going to Siquijor. 

We visited the famous Cambugahay Falls. Its very majestic! This place is really packed with tourists! From americans to itallians to Chinese and Koreans, you name it they are all here enjoying the fresh natural waters. I gave it a shot to swim and yes its deep alright. Around 10 feet or more i guess. 

They even made rope swings around so you can Tarzan your way to the waters! That is me photographed by one of the locals. It is one of the highest rope swings there and I just gave it a shot. I did like 10 times and on that day my whole body is like aching. I even bruised my knee all the way to my hip because of bad landings and a lot of face plants! 

We checked in at Coco Grove Beach Resort. This is my 2nd time there and it became bigger! I just love this place. Its vey cozy. Staff is really nice. It has big rooms. And the pool has a bar beside it. You can actually drink a margarita while in the pool. Its really nice. 

One thing that this place lacks is golf carts for senior citizens to go around. And also  a faster wifi. Actually internet is one of the islands problems. Not all parts of siquijor has a signal. Some places have really weak signals down to zero at all. But I heard there are plans to build more cell sites around the island. 

This is the famous Salagdoong Beach. A lot of tourists flock here as well. You can enjoy its white sand beach and also they made rock slides and cliff diving spots here. 

Too bad the weather is really bad and its prohibited to jump. The weather is pretty bad that time and the waves is just that strong. I managed to climb over the ledge and just took a photo whats it like. 

One thing that I miss eating in the island is this. Its the meat of a Sea Urchin. This is a local delicacy here in Siquior. Its quite salty and creamy. You have to eat this real quick because it can spoil really fast. In manila, you can find this in japanese restaurants and its called U-ni. 

Out on the beach, i lay down by the wooden benches and suddenly I noticed a foreign lady picking up trash swept by the waves. I was like, wow. Instead of her lounging around during her vacation she managed to pick trash during her free time.

Theres always time to get crazy. The island is known for its witches, sorcery and mystical things. A lot of people are skeptical with these kinds of things and that includes me. If ever riding a broom to work will definitely ease traffic in EDSA.

I even bought some island souveneirs. If only these things work, Joyce Pring is probably my girlfriend now. Unfortunately, you have to get girls the old fashion way. Not thru sorcery. 

If you happen to visit the island, go to to Kanheron Ranch. Its like a bar but theres a museum inside it. You can see different kinds of antiques there! Theres even a 15 foot swimming pool where you can dip in in case you want to go for a swim. Its like a taste of Texas when you go there. 

We visited the old Lazi Church.  Its newly renovated! You can see the newly painted roof. Some new bricks installed. I believe the church was damaged from the recent earthquake and typhoons. The local government spearheaded the renovation of this century old, world renowned church. 

As we go back home, im starting to miss it already. If I am given a chance to stay and live at the island, I would love to. Theres no traffic. Theres no pollution. Its peaceful. Life is very simple. Unlike here in Manila, its chaos. You try to go somewhere or simply just go to work you will face the horrible EDSA traffic. The hustle at the MRT and basically the hard life of the metro. I really miss the  island life. How I wish I can go back. 

I want to share this video that I made. Sorry im still new at this and  still learning. I would like to thank my ate hazel and my auntie ceding for bringing us back. They basically shouldered all the expenses and we are forever grateful. Thank you so much. To the drivers and to the staffs of the hotels we'ved been to. Coco Grove thank you. Southville Guesthouse thank you! To all the people all the people who helped us and helped our lola go back and visit her home town. Maraming salamat po! 

Mountain Province

To be honest, this is my first time to see Banaue Rice Terraces in real life. I have been to Sagada a couple years back but never tried to visit one of Philippine's beloved attractions! I was lucky. Because that cloud on top of the photo is rain. Real heavy rain. About 30 mins after this photo was taken, heavy rain poured. We were like ants being played by a mean kid with a bucket of water! The place is really spectacular. Why am I here again in Ifugao? Well, I have this project for HABI Philippines and I was tasked to photographed the different disciplines in weaving. I am fortunate enough to be chosen as their photographer. Only a few can have an opportunity like this. I really worked hard for this. Blood sweat and tears actually.

Anyway, I am travelling with Dr. Norma Respicio. She is a professor in UP Diliman. She will accompany me to the different weaving places around the country. The photos that I took will soon graze the pages of this coffee table book that HABI will make. So I cant post them yet. I can post some scenic photos though just for this blog. This is actually my 5th province. I will make a blog out of the different provinces as well soon. We stayed at Banaue Hotel. Place is really nice. Its kinda outdated but its alright. What do I meant by outdated? Windows doesnt have screens. Toilets have no bidet... but theres hot water and thats fine with me.

The view of the restaurant is pretty insane! You can see the clouds swoop down the mountain side as the birds fly so high and wildly. I am really enjoying this hot cup of brewed  coffee along with my toasted bread with butter and scrambled eggs! This reminds me of getting a toaster soon! Anyway, this place rocks. I really love this spot over here. 

From Banaue, we have to go to Bontoc to take pictures at this town called and called Lagawe. Its a small town but rich in culture. There were reports that police intercepted a bus harbouring passengers smuggling large amounts of Marijuana. That means bus is not coming and we have to ride a tricycle going to Bontoc. It was a long ride. Like 2 and a half hours. Its bumpy. Loud. Kinda dangerous because of the potential mud slides and rock debris falling at the side of the mountain due to heavy rains. Thank God we arrived safe in Bontoc. 

Bontoc is already industrialised. I guess this is the center of commerce in the mountain province. Last year i was here for the Lang-ay festival. Different tribes from different areas dance and showcased their beautiful costumes at the streets! I dont really watch festivals. I think that was my first time and it was really good! 

At Bontoc, we visited a town called Samoki. Its a town rich in harvesting rice, selling meat (mostly pork) and weaving. We talked to the elderly people who still do the art of weaving. Few of them still do it. Sadly its a dying culture. I just hope that more people will appreciate and  patronise this dying art. A piece of cloth about 3-4 meters long will be finished for a week if done straight and non stop. Thats why that piece of cloth is quite expensive. But the hardwork to make that is all worth it.  

People live here in a very simple life. They dont live lavishly like the most people. I saw this old lady feeding her chickens as she sit down in her make shift wooden chair.  This photo had a deep impact in to me coz it may come unusual but this is their way of life.

We have to go back to Banaue to visit this town called Lagawe. From Lagawe, we have to go to this place called Kianggan. This place is believed to be the origin of the Ifugaos. On our way, we stopped for a while to take a photo of the beautiful Bay-yo Rice Terraces. It is really something. Looking at it along with the cold air will give you goosebumps. Its so serene and really a sight to see. 

My journey to Banaue and then going to Bontoc is one of my most memorable moments of my travelling live. Inspite of the heavy rains, we managed to visit the places that we need to go and meet people that we would want to meet. Somehow this job requires a lot of patience and hardwork. You have to prepare physically or you'll get sick quickly. Good thing we passed all that and did our job  even though we soaking wet. Truly the places up north is must to visit. If ever i had a chance, i would definitely want to go back. 

Zambalove

When somebody asks you " Do you have any plans this weekend? " My eyes usually brights up and I immediately ask why. Are we going somewhere? Usually the answer is yes! As an ultimate kaladkarin, I just have to pack my clothes, my gear and all my bags and leave. Im going to embark on a trip to one of my favorite places in Luzon, Zambales. Where everything is chill, fun and wet. Welcome to Liw- Liwa! A weekend trip that is hard to forget! Join me in my journey! 

Zambales sand is not white but its fairly fine. What i love with Liw-Liwa's beach is that the sea shore is very wide.  Free of coconut trees that usually causes debris. It means you can do a lot of things like pitch a tent, play frisbee, or do team building activities or maybe just lay a beach mat, bring out the cooler and drink all day! 

Drinking  ice cold beer at the beach is one of my favorite things to do in life. Its almost like a bliss when you bury your feet into the sand as it massages you while you sip and listen to the sound of the waves. Its like a barrage of emotions rushing into your head! You just wanna close your eyes and savor the moment. 

Wanna get wet and stoked? Go surf! Liwa's waves are really nice. Wether you're an expert or a beginner, pretty sure you will have fun riding it. I think for less than 500 pesos, you can already rent out the board and get the surfing lessons. Board rental is 250. If you wish to have an instructor with you, 450.

The kuyas out there are really nice and friendly. Pretty sure you will learn surfing asap. We even went to their workshop and we saw them refurbishing a beat down surf board. Its pretty gruelling stuff but perfection needs patience and great craftsmanship. It's nice hanging out with them. 

We stayed at Le Quvoh Beachfront Resort. I love it there. Its super chill. They have this suite room for only 5,000 pesos where four of you can fit in. You can actually get an extra bed where you can fit up to six. Its really nice. It has its own bathroom. You have a balcony. Its aircon. Pretty decent for 5k. 

Its a great place to hangout. Have deep conversations... haha. I dunno. Mingle. Have a glass of wine. Or drink booze by the balcony as you stare at the beach. Life is good. 

That is actually Black Label on a wine glass. Im just out there chillin. I think I was starting to get wasted early. Like wer drinking as early as 1pm. We had.., black label, some Jack... we had beer, and yes i also brought some wine. By the way that wine glass is actually made of acrylic. Bought it at Crates and Barrel specifically for times like these. I used it a lot of times but never brought it to the beach. This is actually her debut beach trip. =)

If you're on a budget, you can actually pitch a tent for a small fee of 250 pesos. You just have to pay an extra 100 pesos each for the entrance. Theres a common bathroom. Theres also a cooking area. You can bring food if you wish. Let me whisper this to your ears come close, theres no corkage... Hell yeah! I saw a large group there. They had like 10-12 tents! It was crazy! They pitched just beside the beach.  They were all having drinks...partying like crazy. They'r having the time of their lives. 

I saw this FJ Cruiser having fun at the beach! Cruising with friends as they circle around the shore! I even saw this ford ranger around while the girls on their bikinis at the back! Oh yeah. hehe. I dont wanna be the driver of that pickup, i just wanna be the dude at the back of the truck along with the girls...wet and crazy! haha :P Jk lang.  Im a good boy. 

Watching the sunset is something I really love doing. Its proof that no matter how rough the day went by, it will end beautifully somehow. Liw-Liwa's beach has one of the perfect vantage points if you want to see the sunset. Its mesmerising. Bro can I get a tissue, i feel like crying... joke! 

I met a couple of people there at Liwa. They were sitting by the shore looking at their friend as he was busy surfing. I noticed the girl, is using a Fuji camera. I was thinking, it would be hard for her to take pictures using the kit lens. I was kind enough to offer my telephoto so she can take pics of her friend. We had a long chat about photography. About manila traffic... and a lot of stuff. It was pretty nice convo. She was a physical therapist. (I'd love to have therapy that time though). She was like a regular at Liw-Liwa. So regular that she actually  knows the locals out there! She knew the surf instructors. She knew ate who sells keychains and souvenirs. It was amazing! Sad thing about that moment was, I never asked for her name. Nor her number. Nor her facebook account. Nothing.  We just talked like we knew each other without knowing our names. How stupid could I be? 

Im almost at the end of this blog. Its really nice blogging again. I dunno, last couple of years was rough for me and its like i dont give an F to the world anymore... why blog about it. I realised that, the world is full of changes. You may be down but you can always go up. Its like a wheel ran over some dog shit.  As the wheel roll, shit eventually goes off. So as in life, just keep on rollin' off the shit out of you. Just dont stop and move forward. Its pretty disgusting analogy thou...

Im leaving you with this short video that I made. Forgive me since im still studiying making videos though. Im not good flying a drone for now... These four clips actually took a lot of re-takes. Well, its ok to make mistakes. Thats life. You can always try again. Just make sure you have a lot of batteries  or you'll fish out your drone at the sea. 

Anyways, I would like to thank my friends Mark and Jinnie for inviting me. It was crazy of you guys to make it last minute. Also to Le Quvoh Beachfront Resort over at Liw-Liwa Zambales. Specially to Ate Mhy and Kuya Ferds. Thank you so much. We will be back soon. And most specially, to our Lord almighty who continues to shower us  with blessings, talents and beauty all around us. Thank you for always keeping us safe at our travels. Salamat Zambales. Salamat sa Dagat at Alat. Till next time!  

Goto Believe Team Building 2018

I do believe in an organization... teamwork, camaraderie and getting along with each other is the primary goal to survive. Everything will fall like a stack of cards if each one of them doesn't settle their differences and work as one. Thats why it is important for companies to have team buildings to keep the team spirit alive. I was invited to photograph Goto Believe's Team Building activities at Blue Pavilion Resort in Infanta, Quezon. Through my lens I witnessed hardwork, patience, and the love for each other in facing their challenges. I have to give my appreciation to Buklod for facilitating this wonderful event. 

They have this activity where they are asked to squeeze out all the contents of the toothpaste from the tube which for me is probably one of the most satisfying thing I wanna do in my life. Coz you don't do that at all unless you're a psychotic person who eats toothpaste for breakfast. Squeezing that out gives you an undescribable feeling that really feels good. Then after doing so, the facilitator asked them to put back all the toothpaste back in the tube!!! Which for me is quite hard thing to do. The team who gets the most toothpaste back inside the tube wins... The lesson for this is that its easy everytime you want to say something to someone but its really hard if you take it back. Thats why its important to mind what you say to other people. If you have nothing good to say, just shut up and  keep it to yourself.

Then there is this activity where one of your teamate  needs to reach a toothpick without stepping, crossing, falling nor touching you body parts onto  the sand. Its impossible to reach it alone so your teamates have to hold onto you and support you in order to gain balance and stability. Being flexible is not enough. You still have to rely on your teamates to finish this task. This is a great learning experience where one must support each other in order for the team to achieve its goals. Its not easy but when you have each others back (or torso or leg), any task is possible!

Any obstacles is manageable if you just work together and if you work smart. That blue marble should travel from one half-tube on to the another. It seems to be an easy thing to do. But if you dont talk, dont listen or simply dont cooperate well, that marble will easily fall. Proper coordination + teamwork and working smart is the key for a team to be successful. Add also to have a pair of steady hands as well...

Besides all the activities, there are also lectures worthy of listening. There was this part where they teach you how to save money. Everytime you want to buy something like shoes, clothes..that phone. You have to save 3 times the amount of that thing in order for you to buy it. For example, if that phone costs  20,000 pesos, you must save at least 60,000 pesos in order for you to buy it. In that way, you still have enough savings just in case you really need the money. It also adds a feeling of guilt buying that gadget. To the point that you dont want to buy it anymore. If you can live without it, dont buy it. Just save it. If you really want to have it, you must pay the price.

I learned a lot from this team building. Teaches you how to talk to each other. How to be sensitive. How important to suggest what to do not just criticise. Its really about the delivery. How you communicate well. How to say it properly in a peaceful manner.  I am so grateful being there. Even though Im only at sidelines listening. Its an eye opening experience. To the staff of Goto Believe, What they have as a group, as co-workers, as a company, they have something really wonderful. They just have to hold on to it dearly.  

I envy them for having people who backs you up when you need them the most. Its not really an organization. You dont call them just workmates nor co-workers. You call them family. Something that you will truly cherish for life.


Many thanks to Goto Believe specially to the beautiful Ms. Sandra and her awesome staff. To Sands, its her 2nd family! She dreamt of something. Believed in it. Worked hard to achieve it. Now its a reality!  And it's growing bigger and bigger! Im so proud of you Sands! Keep it up!  To Sir Gary and the all the staff and facilitators of Buklod, thank you for the knowledge. Such a great experience. And to Blue Pavilion resort for the wonderful venue. To Sir Jelo and Mam Sharon thank you so much. You have been really accommodating inspite of tthe storm. Thank you Thank you Thank you! Its been a great honor. Till next time.