The 7TH Philippine International Pyromusical Competition 2016

The annual event of PIPC or the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition will start on February 13, 20, 27 to March 5, 12, 19, and 2016. For this year participating countries are; Portugal, Italy, United Kingdon, USA, The Netherlands, Germany, Canada, Australia, China, and France. The country host for the event is Philippines. 

So, start your love month with a spark together with your loved ones. For your guidelines, here are the schedules of activities.

February 13, 2016

Platinum Fireworks, Inc – Philippines (Opening Exhibition)

Luso Pirotecnia - Portugal

February 20, 2016

Parente Fireworks - Italy

 Pyrotex Fireworx Ltd. - United Kingdom

February 27, 2016

Atlas Pyrovision – USA

Royal Fireworks – The Netherlands

March 5, 2016

Steffes-OlligFeurwerk – Germany

Fireworks Spectaculars – Canada

March 12, 2016

Skylighter Fireworx – Australia

Polaris Fireworks – China

March 19, 2016

Brezac Artefices – France

Platinum Fireworks, Inc. – Philippines (Closing Exhibition)

How much is the ticket price?

1,500PHP – Patron with dinner

600PHP – VIP

300PHP – Gold

100PHP – Silver

Where to buy the tickets?

Go to www.pyrophilippines.com

For ticket inquiries:

Contact Person: Ms. Jen Sta. Ana 

Mobile Number: +63.917.8114001, Mon-Fri from 9:00am to 6:00pm

For Paypal or website technical inquiries: 

Contact Person: Mr. Dave Santos 

Mobile Number: +63.917.9588100, Mon-Fri from 9:00am to 6:00pm.

watch this video from previous season of PIPC

source of info/photo/video: pyrophilippines.com

Panagbenga Festival 2016 Schedule of Activities

Panagbenga Festival 2016 is happening this month of February until March 2, 2016. It is the biggest festival in the northern region that features street dance and flower float competitions.

Schedule of activities are as follows.

February 1, 2016
Grand Opening Parade: Drum and Lyre Competition- Elementary Division
Location: Panagbenga Park, Session Road-Magsaysay Avenue-Harrison Road-Melvin jones Football Grounds
Time: Program starts at 8:00AM
Opening Concert
Location: Atrium, SM City Baguio
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 2 – 7, 2016
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 8, 2016
Chinese Spring Festival
Location: City-wide
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 9 – 13, 2016
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 14, 2016
Handog ng Panagbenga Sa Pamilya Baguio
Let a thousand Flowers Bloom
Panagbenga 2016 Kite-Flying Challenge
Panagbenga Variety Show
Fireworks Display
Location: Melvin Jones Grandstand and Football Grounds
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 15 – 17, 2016
PMA Grand Alumni Homecoming
Location: PMA, Loakan Road
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 18, 2016
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 19, 2016
Floral Arrangement Competition (Judging)
Location: Baguio City National High School
Barangay Clean and Green Landscaping Competition (Judging)
Location: All Baguio City Barangays
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 19 – 21, 2016
School Based Landscaping Competition (Judging)
Location: Baguio City Schools
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 22 – 26, 2016
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 27, 2016
Grand Street Dancing Parade
Location: Panagbenga Park-Session Road-Magsaysay Avenue-Harrison Road – Athletic Bowl
Time: 8:00AM
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 28, 2016
Grand Float Parade
Location: DILG – Session Road – Harrison Road – Athletic Bowl
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 29 – March 4, 2016
Session Road in Bloom
Location: Session Road
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

March 5, 2016
Pony Boys Day
Location: Wright Park
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

March 6, 2016
Panagbenga Closing Ceremonies and Grand Fireworks Display
Location: Athletic Bowl and Various Areas in Baguio CBD
Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition
Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

If you are searching for a hotel / Inn to stay, I suggest make a reservation now to avoid inconvenience. Also, check LeFern Hotel.

source info: http://baguiocity.co/

Mt. Pamitinan (Rodriguez, Rizal)

Pamitinan is one of the mountains in Rodriguez, Rizal, which according to PinoyMountaineer it is about 426 MASL. This is the mountain that we are going to climb today. I met Tolits at Jollibee Cubao and we left there at five forty five in the morning after we load up.

Then again, we meet Jeff, Rocky, and Majimen (Jeff’s friend) and we arrived at Brgy. Wawa to meet Emman, the guide.

The trek officially started at seven o’clock in the morning. According to our guide, it takes one to two hours to reach the peak. The trail here is established and the first part of the trail is forested. There is part that requires rock climbing or bouldering that you will definitely enjoy. And, challenging for the beginners, but it is manageable. Just concentrate and take extra careful as the rock is a bit sharp here.

From the summit, one can see Mount Haponang Banoy and in distance is Mount Arayat, the Sierra Madre mountains is also visible here, and a growing towns of Rizal. We’re descended after that and arrived at around ten o’clock. 

This is my 20th official conquered mountains. And, the unforgettable one because it’s my birthday climb, too! 

Topmost

Itinerary

05:00AM – Meet up at Jollibee Farmers Cubao

05:45AM – Departure

06:45AM – Arrived at Eastwood/Montalban

07:00AM – Trek started

09:30AM – Summit

10:30AM – Descent

12:00NN – Lunch

02:00PM – Back to Cubao

Expenses

 50Php each – FX from Cubao to Eastwood/Montalban

7.50Php each – Jeep from Eastwood to Wawa

***we gave 100Php each to the Guide

How to get there?

Take a FX/Van bound to Eastwood/Montalban and drop off to Eastwood Mini Stop. Take a tricycle or jeep going to Brgy. Wawa. Meet the guide. 

Contact:

Local Guide, Emman 0949-395-6589

More photos here...

Happy hiking!

Marco

Mt. Ayaas (Rodriguez, Rizal)

Another week to spend in the mountain with these two adventurer buddies and this is in the province of Rizal, Mt. Ayaas is about 567m and it ranks as the 14th highest mountain in the province. Again, we are going to explore another mountain here. 

I met Tolits at Jollibee Farmers and from there we rode car bound to Eastwood/Montalban. We then, met Jeff in front of Mini Stop store and bought some food and water. Afterwards, we rode tricycle going to Wawa and met Emman, the guide.

We are down to three because others have their own commitments on that day. So, Tolits, Jeff and yours truly will pursue to conquer Mount Ayaas. From jump-off in Wawa Dam, passing through the river and trekking has started. The first part of the trail is river crossing and passing through bamboo trees. It’s an easy trail, actually! But, still need a guide as some part of the trail is confusing. 

view from the top

descending mount ayaas

At that moment, we entered in a jungle trail and many fruit trees. We then saw a house in the mountain which according to our guide, this is the last house. We reached the transmission tower. An hour after that, grassland appears on our sight that leads us to the summit. 

At the summit, one can see the Mount Haponang Baboy, Mount Pamitinan, and more. We were descending from the summit to the other side of the mountain and exit to Brgy. Mascap. It takes one to two hours until you reach Brgy. Mascap and from there, you can charter a tricycle bound to San Isidro/Eastwood Montalban. 

We successfully get to the summit. Tired, but happy feet!

This is my 19th official conquered mountain.

Itinerary

05:00AM – Meet up at Jollibee Farmers Cubao

06:00AM – Arrived at Eastwood/Montalban

06:30AM – Jump-off Brgy. Wawa

07:30AM – Trek started

10:30AM – Summit

11:30AM – Descent

12:00NN – Lunch

01:30PM – Arrived at Brgy. Mascap, tricycle

02:30PM – Arrived at San Isidro

03:00PM – Snacks/Post Lunch/Freshen up

05:00PM – Back to Cubao

Expenses

 50Php each – FX from Cubao to Eastwood/Montalban

10Php each – Tricycle from Eastwood to Wawa

***we gave 100Php each to the Guide

How to get there?

Take a FX/Van bound to Eastwood/Montalban and drop off to Eastwood Mini Stop. Take a tricycle or jeep going to Brgy. Wawa. Meet the guide. 

Contact:

Local Guide, Emman 0949-395-6589

More photos here...

Happy Hiking!

Marco

2015 Panagbenga Festival Schedule of Activities

The festival gets the name from a Kankanaey term, it means “a season for blossoming,” that’s why; it is also called the Flower Festival. It is also the biggest festival in the northern region that features street dance and flower float competitions.

Here’s the schedule of Activities:

February 1, 2015: 

Opening Ceremonies and Street Dancing Parade Competition

(Drum and Lyre Dance Competition – Elementary Division)

Locations: Panagbenga Park, Session Road, Harrison Road, Baguio Athletic Bowl

Opening Concert

Location: To Be Announced

Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition

Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 2 – 14, 2015

Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition

Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 15, 2015

Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition

Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

Handong ng Panagbenga sa Pamilya Baguio

Location: Melvin Jones

Let a Thousand Flowers Bloom

Location: Melvin Jones

Panagbenga 2015 Kite-Flying Challenge

Location: Melvin Jones

Panagbenga Variety Show

Location: Melvin Jones

Fireworks Display

Location: Melvin Jones

February 16 – 18, 2015

Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition

Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

February 19, 2015

Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition

Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

Chinese Spring Festival

Location: City-wide

February 19 – 22, 2015

Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition

Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

PMA Grand Alumni Home Coming

Location: Philippine Military Academy, Loakan Road

February 23 – 27, 2015

Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition

Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

Floral Arrangement Competition and School-based Landscaping Competitiong (Judging)

Location: Elementary and Highschools in Baguio City

February 28, 2015

Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition

Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

Grand Street Dancing Parade

Locations: Panagbenga Park, Session Road, Harrison Road, Athletic Bowl

Sponsors’and Exhibitors’ Day

Location: Athletic Bowl

March 1 , 2015

Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition

Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

Grand Float Parade

Locations: DILG, Session Road, Harrison Road, Athletic Bowl

Sponsors’and Exhibitors’ Day

Location: Athletic Bowl

Session Road in Bloom

Location: Session Road

March 2 – 6, 2015

Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition

Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

Session Road in Bloom

Location: Session Road

March 7, 2015

Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition

Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

Session Road in Bloom

Location: Session Road

Pony Boys’ Day

Location: Athletic Bowl

March 8, 2015

Baguio Blooms Exhibition and Exposition

Location: Lake Drive, Burnham Park

Session Road in Bloom

Location: Session Road

Panagbenga Closing Ceremonies and Grand Fireworks Display

Locations: Athletic Bowl and various areas in Baguio’s (Central Business District) CBD

See you there!!! Enjoy!!!

2015 - 6TH Philippine International Pyromusical Competition

Philippine International Pyromusical Competition is an annual event will shows the spectacular lights and colors, held at SM Mall of Asia.

Here's the schedule and list of participating countries:

February 07, 2015
Philippines – Platinum Firework, Inc.
Japan – Akariya Fireworks

February 14, 2015
Italy – Marterello Group
Brazil – Vision Show

February 21, 2015
Mexico – Sirius Pyrotechnics
The Netherlands – Royal Fireworks

February 28, 2015
Portugal – Grupo Luso
Sweden – Goteborgs FyrverkeriFabrik

March 07, 2015
Canada – Royal Pyrotechnie
United Kingdom – Jubilee Fireworks

March 14, 2015
China – Polaris Fireworks
Philippines – Platinum Fireworks, Inc.

***Note: Show start at 7:30PM

Pyromusical Ticket Prices:
Silver – 100Php
Gold – 300Php
VIP – 500Php
Patron with Dinner – 1,500Php


Where to get Pyromusical Tickets?

• www.pyrophilippines.com

Contact Person: Mr. Dave Santos
Contact Number: (63) 917-958-8100
Email add: pipticketing@yahoo.com

• www.smtickets.com Tel. No.: (02) 470-222
• www.ticketnet.com.ph Tel. No.: (02) 911-5555
• www.ticketworld.com.ph Tel. No.: (02) 891-9999

See you there!!! :)

SINULOG 2015 Schedule of Activities

Cebu’s Sinulog Festival is held on the third Sunday of January. It is a yearly cultural and religious celebration and is the heart of the Santo Nino Celebration in the Philippines. Sinulog is originates from the Cebuano word “Sulog” which signifies, “like water current movement”. It refers to the forward-backward movement of the Sinulog dance - it comprises of two steps forward and one step backward.

Photo credit: Teddy Uy (2nd Grand Prize Winner - Sinulog 2014)

Here’s the 2015 Sinulog Schedule of Activities.

January 8, 2015 (Thursday)
Opening Salvo: Walk with Jesus
4:00 AM : Assembly Time (Area) Fuente Osmeña
4:30 AM : Start of Walk-Fuente Osmeña Blvd. – Basilica del Sto. Niño
5:30 AM : Installation of Hermano & Hermana Mayores 2015

January 9, 2015 (Friday)
2015 Kick Off
10:00 AM : Sinulog Trade Fair at SM City Cebu by Department of Trade and Industry
2:00 PM : Solemn Mass (Basilica del Santo Niño)
3:00 PM : Launching Parade (Basilica del Santo Niño to CCSC)
7:00 PM : Opening and Launching Program, Fuente Osmeña
8:00 PM : Sinulog Idol (Fuente Osmeña Circle)
9:00 PM : Street Party Bands

January 10, 2015 (Saturday)
Sinulog sa Kabataan sa Lalawigan
1:00 PM : Parade of Participants, Capitol Site to Cebu City Sports Center
2:00 PM : Sinulog sa Kabataan sa Lalawigan at Cebu City Sports Center
6:30 PM : Cultural Show (Fuente Osmeña)
7:00 PM. : Ms. Cebu 2015 Pre Pageant Night @ Ayala Activity Center

January 11, 2015 (Sunday)
Sinulog sa Kabataan sa Dakbayan
3:00 AM. : Cebu City 2015 Marathon
1:00 PM : Parade of Participants, Plaza Independencia to Cebu City  Sports Center
2:00 PM : Sinulog sa Kabataan sa Dakbayan at Cebu City Sports Center
6:30 PM : Cultural Show (Fuente Osmeña)
8:00 PM : Sinulog Idol (Fuente Osmeña)
9:00 PM : Concert at the Fuente Osmeña, Street Party Bands

January 12, 2015 (Monday)
6:30 PM : Cultural Show (Fuente Osmeña)
8:00 PM : Sinulog Idol (Fuente Osmeña)
9:00 PM : Concert at the Fuente Osmeña, Street Party Bands

January 13, 2015 (Tuesday)
6:30 PM : Cultural Show (Fuente Osmeña)
8:00 PM : Sinulog Idol (Fuente Osmeña)
9:00 PM : Concert at the Fuente Osmeña, Street Party Bands

January 14, 2015 (Wednesday)
9:00 AM : Airport Welcome (Balikbayan Flights)
6:30 PM : Cultural Show (Fuente Osmeña)
7:00 PM : Ms. Cebu 2015 Coronation Night
8:00 PM. : Sinulog Idol (Fuente Osmeña)
9:00 PM. : Concert @ the Fuente Osmeña, Street Party Bands

January 15, 2015 (Thursday)
9:00 AM. : Airport Welcome (Balikbayan Flights)
6:00 PM. : Balik Cebu Welcome Party @ Ayala Activity Center
6:30 PM. : Sinulog Festival Queen Runway Competition and Photoshoot
8:00 PM. : Handumanan @ Ayala Terraces
8:00 PM. : Sinulog 2015 Idol Grand Finals @ the Fuente Osmeña
9:00 PM. : Concert @ the Fuente Osmeña, Street Party Bands

January 16, 2015 (Friday)
Visual Merchandising Contest (Dept. Stores and Malls)
4:00 AM. : Walk with Mary (Area) Fuente Osmeña - Sto. Niño
9:00 AM. : Solidairty Meeting (All Competing Contingent/Floats/Higante/Puppeteers)
                  @ Cebu City Sports Center Gym
6:00 PM. : Sinulog 2015 Dance Crew Finals @ Cebu City Sports Center
7:30 PM. : Sinulog Festival Queen 2015 Coronation Night @ Cebu City Sports Center
8:00 PM. : Cebu Popular Music Festival @ Cebu Coliseum

January 17, 2015 (Saturday)
6:00 AM. : Fluvial Procession of the Miraculous Image of the Sto. Niño
9:00 AM. : Re-enactment of the Baptism of Queen Juana and Rajah Humabon Basilica del Santo Niño
12:00 PM. : 10th "The Street Vibration & Big Bike Rally 2015"
                    by V-max Owner's Group, Inc. Cebu Chapter
2:00 PM. : Solemn Procession of the Miraculous Image of Sto. Niño
7:00 PM. : Sinulog Fireworks Competition @ SM City Cebu
7:00 PM. : Street Party @ Fuente Osmeña and Plaza Independencia

January 18, 2015 (Sunday)
Sinulog Grand Parade
4:00 AM. : Mañanita Mass @ Basilica del Sto. Niño
6:00 AM. : Pontifical Mass with His Eminence Jose S. Palma
8:00 AM. : Holy Mass @ Cebu City Sports Center
9:00 AM. : Sinulog Grand Parade Carousel Kick Off
7:00 PM. : Grand Finale and Grand Fireworks @ Cebu City Sports Center
7:30 PM. : Street Party Bands, Fuente Osmeña
9:00 PM. : Pyrospectacular Show (Pyromusical Show @ SM City Cebu)
5:00 PM. – 2:00 A.M. : Concert Series sa Sugbo @ SRP Grounds
12:00MN : Sinulog Fireworks @SRP

January 19, 2015 (Monday) Awarding Ceremonies at Cebu City Sports Center
January 23, 2015 (Friday) “HUBO”
January 24, 2015 : Judging of Finalists Short Film/Video Documentary Contest                        
January 25, 2015 : First Cebu City Triathlon
January 26, 2015 : Judging Sinulog 2015 Photo Contest
January 27, 2015 : Judging of Finalist in Short Film / Video Documentary and
                               Music Video Contest
January 31, 2015
1:00 PM : Judging of Finalists Sinulog Short Film Festival at SM City Cebu
6:00 PM : Awarding Ceremonies Photo Contest, Short Film and
Video Documentary Contest at SM City Cebu

January 31, 2015 – February 8, 2015
Photo Exhibit “Winning Photos Sinulog 2014” at SM City Cebu

Mark on your calendar on these following dates, reserve your hotels now, book early, and most of all enjoy and have fun!

Happy travelling,

Marco

Info Source: http://www.sinulog.ph/

Christimas in the Philippines: Simbang Gabi

Simbang Gabi, Misa de Gallo in Spanish, will start from 16^th of December and ends at midnight on 24^th of December. A Filipino Christmas tradition, there are a series of nine dawn masses, usually starting as early as 4: 00 AM. It is practised by Catholic and Aglipayans, and with some Evangelical Christian, and the independent Protestant churches have adopted the practice in having pre-Christmas services during dawn.

Filipino celebrated with Midnight Mass and the traditional Noche Buena feast. The family member will dine together at around midnight and would also open their gifts at this time.

It is not only out of dedication, but also thanks to practical. In the 333 years was that Spain ruled the Philippines, it is usual that the Friars and priests celebrate holy mass for the Filipinos living in the barrios.

Simbang Gabi begins so early because of the experience of Filipinos under the Spanish Regime.

Also, local delicacies are readily available for the churchgoers; when they step out of the churches. Latik and Yema candies are sold to children. Biscuits like Uraro, Barquillos, Lengua de Gato and Otap are sold as well. Café Barako or Salabat were the main drinks. Arroz Caldo and Papait soups abound. And the famous Puto bumbong, bibingka, suman and other sweet rice cakes are cooked on the spot under the fiery red coals.

Dumaguete: Top 5 Of Best Place to Retire Around the World

According to the Retire Overseas Index, Dumaguete is among the cheapest places in the world to live. And, that’s made the place as the top 5 for The 7 Best Places to retire around the World.

Photo credits: superhappytotravel.blogspot

Dumaguete is the city in the province of Negros Oriental and it is the capital and the largest city of the province. It is also mentioned that the city is also known as university town because of the number of colleges and universities which is popular educational destination for students nearby provinces and cities in Visayas and Mindanao.

It has two seasons; dry season starts from December to May, while wet season is from the period of June to November. The hottest is on April and May. And it is protected against most of typhoons in the Philippines.

The tourist spots of the city are beach resorts, dive sites, and the attraction of dolphin and whale watching and the easy access from Cebu City via ferry. There are three major hospitals in the city.

Here's the The 7 Best Places To Retire Around The World;

• The Algarve, Portugal
• Cuenca, Ecuador
• George Town, Malaysia
• Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Dumaguete, Philippines
• Pau, France
• Medellin, Colombia

Source: forbes.com

Orchids Resort: A good place to stay

The Orchids Resort is suited for backpackers or travellers who are looking for affordable and yet comfortable resort to stay on their vacation. This resort is located at Station 3 in Boracay Island and it has access to the main road and the white beach in just two to three minutes.

The cottages are made of native bamboo which makes you feel like you are on your own home. It has fan rooms, air-conditioned rooms, native cottages, and family villa. All are equipped with private bathroom, hot/cold shower, and an outdoor seating area.

The amenities were great and I love the ambiance. It was amazing! In terms of customer service, the Orchids resort staff are very kind and accommodating. Plus, the place is surrounded by flowers, trees, and nature which make you feel like you are on your own home.

“It’s quiet, relaxing, and budget friendly hostel. Staff is welcoming and willing to help you!”

the entrance

The location is away from crowded white beach and partying place, but still just a minute walk leading you out to the white beach and restaurants in Station 1 and 2. The breakfast here is also good. The staff helped us a lot and I asked them to arrange my changes in transportation and maybe they can also book your island hopping from the receptionist counter.

The only problem here is that you can hear TV/music in the next room.

the room

Orchids Resort is a native style resort and one of the most affordable accommodations on Boracay Island. It is, indeed, a good place for relaxation after the whole day of tiring activities. 

Punta Malimono Beach

During Holy Week, I visited my hometown to spend my holiday vacation. It was two years ago not seeing my mother, friends, relatives, and high school friend. That was unplanned because I was running out of time, but someone pushes me to grab the opportunity.


Since, the group does not have a plan for summer getaway so I’ve decided to visit my hometown.

Before the Easter Sunday, my childhood friends gathered and planned to have our get-together outing. We went to Malimono Beach –this is a well-known beach in our province.

Background

The beach is about thirty minutes away from our place. It has lodge which cost 150-200 pesos for the whole day. It has river which makes the sea water cold. There are also rocks on the other side of the beach. You can bring your snorkelling gear for you to explorer the undersea. The sand is black and some part of the beach is pebbles. The beach is located at Malimono, Surigao Del Norte.

You can play volleyball or any activities you want.

You can bring your food because there are no establishment around the area.  

We stayed at the beach until six in the evening and I am glad that I was able to capture the stunningly beautiful sunset.

Getting there

From Surigao City terminal, take a jeep going to Malimono and about one and half an hour drive from the city. Ask the driver or the conductor that you are going to Malimono Beach. The fare is 50 pesos.

More photos here...

Happy travelling!
Marco

Mt. Balagbag Dayhike

Mt. Balagbag is located in Rodriguez, formerly Montalban, in the province of Rizal. This mountain is also part of the Sierra Madre range. It is 777 MASL which feature views of some part of Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

The mountain is also called helipad because at the peak of it is like helipad. Climbing this mountain is just one to two hours.

The background of the mountain

Before heading to the summit, drop by at the waterfalls and trek along the river - this is the additional features in climbing this mountain. The trail is not difficult; it was easy and wide. Mt. Balagbag is likewise a most loved of mountain bikers. 

Moreover, hikers who will trek on summer will find out that the difficulty on the trek is the sun exposure because the mountain is not covered with trees. So, the recommendation is to hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon. 

At the highest point of the Mt. Balagbag are the scenes stunning mountains of the Rizal province and the gigantic lands.

The Trail

The trail is easy, which is good for beginners. It is wide and open. Going to the summit is quite hard especially if the sun is already up because it dehydrates you. Better climb the mountain at early in the morning or in the late afternoon. There are also rocks along the trek and it became slippery during rainy seasons.

worth the hike

But, after struggling along the trail you can see the beautiful scene at the top of this mountain. There are store nearby basketball court, you can buy food and drinks before heading to the trail. 

Getting There

If you take a public transportation, from Cubao, take a bus going to Tungko then, ride a jeepney to Licao-Licao. You can pass by at Sitio Karahume for the waterfalls and river trek. Then, go straight to Sitio Balagbag.

I was invited by my friend who loves to climb a mountain. Actually, that was an unexpected hike during the weekend.  In fact, the hike started late in the morning. We meet at Jollibee (Tungko) and from the terminal; we rode a jeepney bound to Licao Licao. Then, we started our trek at around ten o’clock in the morning.  

Sierra Madre range

Day Hike Itinerary

8:00 AM – Meet up at Jollibee Tungko

9:00 AM – Take a jeepney going to Licao Licao

10:00 AM – River trek and water falls

11:00 AM - Start trekking going to summit

12:30 PM – SUMMIT of Mt. Balagbag

2:00 PM – Descending from the summit

3:00 PM – Afternoon snacks

3:30 PM – Back to downward

4:30 PM – Jump-off, back to Quezon City

More photos here...

And this is my 12th conquered mountain! Hooray!

Happy climbing,
Marco

Saint Mary the Virgin in Sagada

Before heading to our next activity, we passed by at the only church in the town. This is a well-known landmark in the town of Sagada –is the only town in the Philippines that is almost Anglican where in 95% of locals baptised into the Episcopal Church of the Philippines. It is located at the Episcopalian Mission compound and it was sanctified on the 8th of December 1921. 

Behind of the church is the school of Saint Mary’s Highschool, the Calvary Hills and fifteen to twenty five minutes hike is the echo valley, and you can see the hanging coffins. You can pass by at the Sagada Cemetery before you reach to the echo valley. Truly a nice view at the back!

However, we’re able to get inside the church because it was open and able to take some pictures in it. So lucky! And, minutes after the mass had begun. The church is quite small, but it simple and looks nice. The altar has rocks at the back which looks so different.

This should not be missed when visiting the place!

Calereuga: A place for renewal and soul searching

The Lenten season is the season for reflection on Jesus Christ for his sacrifice and suffering, his life, death, burial, and resurrection. For Catholics, it is a way to remind them of the value of repentance. It begun during the Ash Wednesday and it is a 40 days period of preparation for Easter Sunday.

Transfiguration Chapel

Some of you are now planning where to go and spend the Holy Week. Then, why not visit Calereuga in Batulao, Batangas?

Calereuga is the perfect place to visit and explore during holy week. This is a place for Nature lover and for those who want to spend time with our Creator. It is surrounded with many trees and flowers, an ideal place for self-renewal and soul searching.

Panoramic View at the top of the hill

Roaming around the compound will show to butterflies, birds, various flowers and big trees, koi fish in the ponds under an elevated steel pathway. There’s a hanging bridge which led you to the other part of the compound wherein exposes with a vast field of green grass, trees with tables and benches. And, I think, they allow you to camping here. A chapel on the top of the hummock that you can take time to pray.

Calereuga is a location for family bonding, retreats, recollections, team building, prayers, and renewal. This is a venue for wedding. Great places to take a sit on the green grass, relax, and feel the cool breeze.

How to get there:

•  Ride a bus going to Nasugbu or Balayan in any bus terminal (Pasay or Cubao)
• Get off at Evercrest
•   From there, take a tricycle and tell the driver you’re going to Calereuga. Please take note: there no tricycle in the area so better get the contact number of the driver and advise him to fetch you on agreed time. 

For more information:

Calereuga’s Transfiguration Chapel

Brgy. Kaylaway, Batulao, Nasugbu, Batangas

Email: caleruega_philippines@yahoo.com

Contact Numbers: 043-706-0348

Boracay Island: Things To Do

Everyone is dreaming to spend their vacation in the best beach in the world, Boracay Island.  It is known for white sand beaches and leisure activities like; scuba diving, helmet diving, snorkelling, windsurfing, kiteboarding, parasailing, and water sport rides. It is among the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines. In fact, Boracay Island was awarded as the best island in the world in 2012.

This small island is located at the Northwest of Panay Island in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. 

It was developed among the best travel destination for relaxation and nightlife. It is also one competitive venue for the Asian Windsurfing Tour. The white beach is well known beach on the island –it is about four kilometres long. There are various establishment likes resorts, hotels, lodging houses, and restaurant.

Beforehand, this island is included in the to-do list of a traveller like me. I am glad that I was able to visit here. The original plan, actually, was to join the Ati-atihan Festival in Aklan and sidetrip on Boracay Island.  The plan was changed because when I make some inquiries for reservation all Inn and hotels are fully booked. I was so frustrated!

So, hello Boracay Island…

It was my first time on Boracay Island and so with my travel buddy, both of us have no idea on what to do. Since, I was appointed to make our itinerary. I stumble upon on a different blogs to have learned interesting activities.  

Things to do:

Fire Dance: The evenings on Boracay beach offer shows and entertained tourist like cultural dancing, live band or acoustic singer, and the most interesting is the Fire Dance.

Island Hopping: The Island is home of undeveloped beaches, crystal and turquoise waters, and colourful coral reefs. So, your adventure will not be completed if you did not do this!

Explore White Beach:  Boracay is known for famous white beach with crystal clear water and fine white sand. So, discover the beauty of four kilometres white beach. You can jog/run in the morning or in the afternoon. Walking with your bare foot, sun bathing and then, watch sunset!

Puka Beach: If you want to escape from the busy and crowded Boracay station from 1, 2, and 3. Then, Puka Beach is good for you! It is a peaceful stretch of white sand in the northern tip of the island. The sand is not as fine as white beach. You can hire a tricycle to take you there.

Snorkeling: Take a glance of the thriving sea life. But, sad to say, we can’t see the beauty under the sea because the weather is not so good due to the low pressure that hits Visayas and Mindanao. The water is not so clear!

Pig-Out: There are several restaurants establishments around the beach. We tried to consume in the street foods, which is very interesting, Smoke Restaurant, and finally, I tried the Jonah’s Fruit Shake.

Other leisure activities are mentioned above and other interesting pastimes are FlyFish, Banana Boat, ATV car ride and buggy cart, Parasailing, Jetski, skim boarding and more.

Since, our flight was re-scheduled and so we decided to join the last part of Ati-Atihan Festival. I am so glad that we can still witness the festival. Next time, we will try the other activities Boracay Island can offers. Lastly, we enjoyed the trip because of the amazing scenery. Happy travelling!

More photos here...

Keep safe guys,

Marco 

Kalibo: Ati-Atihan Festival

Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, Aklan is annual celebration in honour of Santo Nino. It is a two-week festival, which the highlight is on the third Sunday of January. During this day, participants of the street dance parade wear colourful and exceptional costumes, paint their faces in different styles and it consists tribal dance and music. 

It is also known as the mother of all festival in the Philippines. Other neighbouring provinces encouraged to have their own version of festivity like Sinulog in Cebu and Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo.

The major street in Aklan fills with locals bringing drums and dancing very lively with their colourful costumes, shouted “Hala! Bira!” The Aetas are the earliest and the primary settler in the Panay Island, the festival named Ati-atihan means “to be like Aetas” or “make believe Ati’s”, that’s why, all participants of this event get darkened with bright color of dress, which attracts tourists.

The best part of the festival happens on the last day, when the groups representing the different tribes to compete and it ends with a procession with thousands of people joined carrying torches and various images of the Santo Nino.

It was my first time to witness the Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo, Aklan and I wanted to visit there again, maybe next year. And, I will recommend this also to my co-travellers and friends. I was there on the last day of the festival after my Boracay adventure –will blog it next time. 

How to get to Kalibo, Aklan?

It can be reached by sea, air and by land. You can book flights via Kalibo Internation Airport with the following airline companies:

• Cebu Pacific
• Philippines Airlines
• Airasia Zest

By sea, it consumed 12 hours from Manila North Harbor going to Aklan –it has three ports; Jetty Port in Caticlan, the port in Dumaguit, and the port of New Washington.

• Moreta Shipping lines (Caticlan, Dumaguit, and Kalibo)
• The Caticlan Jetty port caters Roll-on and Roll-off (RORO) shipping lines like Montenegro Shipping Lines
• MBRS Shipping lines (Caticlan & Dumaguit, Aklan)
• WG&A Super Ferry - Our Lady of Medjugorje (Dumaguit, Aklan)

By land (bus), it takes 12-15 hours from Manila bound to Aklan. The following bus companies are:

• PHILTRANCO Bus (Cubao, Quezon City)
• Bachelor Express
• Dimple Star Transit (Araneta Center, Cubao)

Happy travelling!

Marco

Malarayat Mountain Range Traverse (Mt. Malipunyo - Manabu Peak)

Holiday gives us the chance to discover places, mountains and travel around. A year ago, we hiked two mountains in just for one day and now, before 2013 ends we challenged ourselves to do a traverse. This is a challenging and exciting adventure and we felt nervous because we don’t know what will happen during the hike. But, the eagerness is there and we are fully energized that day.  

The Story
Our first traverse is Mt. Malipunyo to Mt. Manabu via Mt. Malarayat mountain range -  it is one of the major features of the Southern Tagalog scenery (also includes; Mt. Makiling, Mt. Banahaw, and Mt. Maculot). 

Mt. Malipunyo is located between the provinces of Batangas and Laguna. It has three peaks with the summit of 1005 MASL, it is sometimes spelled as Malipuño. This mountain is a forested and grassy, even in the summit. Mt. Malipunyo, Mt. Susong Dalaga, and the Manabu Peak are the interconnected destinations. Some part of the trails would be steep, but there are many trees to hold on to, but be careful of the harmful plants.

Mt. Manabu is typically cloudy that gives you an almost wistful air. It is one of the three major peaks of the Malarayat range, the named itself is the abbreviated from the word “Mataas na Bundok”. The trail is easy and is the most accessible mountain from Manila. The very beautiful surroundings and add the spectacular view of the Malipunyo mountain range. You can see the perfect scene!

After our early breakfast, our group rode a bus going to Batangas City and from the bus terminal; we headed to the Fiesta Mall and rode a trike to the jump-off. We meet Mang Mario, our guide for the day. Then, start trekking around six thirty in the morning.

struggling the slippery trail

reached the Peak 1

There are noxious plants and pruritogenic lipa trees which can cause itching. Thorns bushes are also visible in the mountain so be careful to avoid getting injury. It is important to wear clothes that can protect your skin. You can get out of the forest after hour later then passing by the grassland or also called “Talahiban”. The trail, after passing by the grassland, is not less of dangers anymore, but it’s going on a sharp edge. It's very tiring, but after all, you will realized how beautiful the world is.

Mt. Susong-Dalaga

dirty but happy feet

encountered various wild plants

reaching the Manabu Peak

Note: If you are not familiar in the trail, it is important to hire a guide to avoid getting lost here.

ITINERARY:

03:30AM - Assembly Jollibee-Buendia

04:30AM - ETD Jam Terminal (going to Batangas City) 

06:00AM - ETA Fiesta Mall (take trike to Jump off)

06:30AM - Arrival at jumpoff - Start Trek

07:30AM - Arrive at the river, first water source.

08:15AM - 2nd water source 

09:00AM - Arrive at Peak 1

09:30AM – Arrive at Peak 2

10:00AM – Arrive at Peak 3, Mt. Malipunyo Summit, take lunch

11:00AM - Start descent

11:30AM - Arrived at Balete park

12:00NN -  Start descent

12:30PM - River. Water source

01:00PM – Tri-House, rest, take coffee, snacks

02:00PM - Arrived at Biak na bundok

02:30PM - Start descend

03:30PM - Arrived at Mt Maraduhan. Rest

04:30PM - Arrived at Manabu Campsite. Rest

05:00PM - Set foot on Mt Manabu Peak

05:30PM - Start descent

05:45PM - Coffee Break at Manong Pirying

06:30PM - Arrived at Mt Manabu Jump off. Rest. Tidy up

07:30PM - Take tricycle to lipa Bus stop, Dinner

08:00PM - Arrived at Lipa Bus Stop

08:30PM - Take bus to Manila

09:30PM - ETA Manila

Expenses

Bus – 157php 

Trike – 20php

Registration Fee – 20php

Guide Fee – 200php each (we give 100php each as tip for Manong Mario for being nice and kind to us)

Food/Water - 250

Guide contact number: Mang Mario, +63-9994106990

More photos here...

Malipunyo makes my 11th conquered mountain a successful one and it was my second time to climbed Mt. Manabu! Hooray!

Happy climbing,

-Marco