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I have long figured out that I prefer the not-your-usual Philippine travel destinations. Having been to a lot of places in the country, there is something about the small-town-city vibe that really captures my heart. I prefer the laidback and unassuming locations where locals seem to be unaware of the beauty of their city or town. I guess this is the case of our next destination - the city of Calbayog.  This is a perfect view to wrap up my #2022BdayTrip in Calbayog City. Calbayog City is a coastal city on the western side of Samar. The city is the sixth largest in the country, in terms of land and water area, and is a commercial hub of the province of Samar. The city is known, among travelers, as the city of waterfalls because of the numerous waterfalls that one can explore within its jurisdiction. However for this travel, we won’t be going to far but we will be exploring the city of Calbayog without the falls. Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral (Calbayog Cathedral) The St. Peter and Paul Cathedral is considered to be the biggest church in Samar and the first cathedral designated in Eastern Visayas. Established as a visita in 1599, the construction of the present church, in Baroque-Romanesque style, started in 1840. Its floor design was in crucifix form with a dome above the transept.  The Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral or Calbayog Church is the biggest church in the province.
The church and its adjacent belfry dominates the skyline of Calbayog. The simple facade of the church is highlighted by the image of the “Our Lady’s Nativity” atop its main door and the images of St. Peter and St. Paul stands adjacent to the image. The towering Cathedral Bell Tower stands on the right side of the church.  The towering belfry of the Calbayog Cathedral was built in 1871. The interior of the church is highlighted by its grand and beautiful altars. The gold and white retablos were designed to look like a facade of a church complete with spirals. The gold chandeliers hanging from the ceilings and the stained-glass windows of the church complete the church’s design giving it a grandiose vibe. A prayer and baptism room is found at the bottom of the church’s belfry. Calbayog City Hall and Sacred Heart Plaza Built in 1925, the Calbayog City Hall is the center of governance of the city. It is houses the local government offices that provide services to its locals. Adjacent to the City Hall is the Handumanan Building that serves as the city’s tourism office. The building was once a jailhouse that was later renovated with a typical- bahay na bato look.
Just right across the City Hall is the town plaza. The open space park is complete with benches and a children’s playground. It has a good view of the church and the city hall and is a good afternoon spot to lounge around if you want to see and feel the laidback vibe of the city. Samar Archeological Museum The Samar Archeological Museum is the only archeological museum in Eastern Visayas. Located with the confines of the Christ the King College, the museum is a repository of artifacts that was recovered and collected by Father Cantius Kobak, a Polish priest and is often referred to, in the academe, as the “Historian of Samar”. The collections include porcelains, burial jars, human bones, and religious artifacts that were collected across the island of Samar.
The museum walks you through Samar’s rich past. The collection includes pre-Spanish period burial jars and human bones that indicated that early Warays already had a concept of the after death, even before the introduction of Christianity in the country. The exhibits also has on display ornaments, instruments, and war weapons that showcased the creativity of tge early settlers of the island. Religious artifacts and antiques from the Spanish period are also part of the display.
It was interesting to find a local private museum that showcased local history. What is more amazing that it started because of the interest of a foreign educator who mapped the island to help us discover more about our past. I just hope that we gather more government support to dig further, know more, and share more about our colorful past. Nijaga Park and Calbayog River Snaking through the city is the Calbayog River. The water that flows through the river drains into the Samar Sea. You can actually observe the movement of the sea tides as water drains out of the river during the low tide. The river is said to help ease flooding in the city.  The Calbayog River snakes through the city.
A river esplanade was constructed right along the banks of the city. The walkway sits adjacent to Nijaga Park - another activity center of the city. The park honors the local Calbayog hero, Benedicto Nijaga, who was arrested and executed with 12 other Katipuneros for their involvement in the group. The park bears a bust of Nijaga and Rizal and also plays host to community activities.
The park and the river esplanade are a beauty at night with all its ambient lights. The bridge that spans the river also gives it that dramatic vibe. Its relaxing ambiance make it a favorite afternoon spot by locals in the city. Port of Calbayog Calbayog is a commercial hub in the province of Samar. It serves as a gateway to the province with its airport and seaport connecting the Samar to the major cities in the country. The seaport has become a favorite afternoon “tambayan” of the locals.
Less than a kilometer away from the town center, the seaport of the city was still buzzing late in the afternoon, not with business transactions but with locals heading up to its unfinished road project. Fishing vessels line along the mouth of Calbayog River while there were a number of pumpboats who were still waiting for passengers probably headed to the nearby islands. Locals frequent the area of the unfinished diversion road for a quick afternoon run or bike while enjoying the views of the Samar Sea and the surrounding islands. Spanish Quarter and the Pot-Pot of Calbayog Walking around the city of Calbayog gives you a unique mix of the rural and city vibe. I must say that I love how the rural vibe outplays the urban feel. The city has a Spanish Quarter where you get to see the collection of old houses of the town. The district is the area surrounding the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. It is amazing to see these old structures fused with modern architecture.
You also get to see the Pot-Pot which is an attraction in itself. The Pot-Pot is a basically a bike with a passenger carriage that was designed like a tricycle. The carriage is also slightly angled up compared to the usual sidecars. It is a popular mode of transportation in the city for short distances. Malopalo Marble Park I made a quick trip on the city outskirts as I was pressed for time to head back to Tacloban City for my flight back to Manila. The Malopalo Marble Park is an eco-tourism destination located along the main highway about 20 minutes away from the city. The park used to be a quarry area for marbles and efforts to stop its extraction was successful that it was turned into a park.  The Malopalo Marble Park was once a quarry area for marbles. One can already see the rustic beauty of the park from the highway. The white rock formations could already be seen from the highway. A river traverses through the park and locals offer boat tours inside the park to appreciate its beauty. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the time to explore it further. Malajog Ridge Nature Park The Malajog Ridge Nature Park is just a few meters away from the Malopalo Marble Park. The ridge and beach spot is nestled behind a towering ridge. The Malajog Beach is a popular beach spot among locals with its gray sand and still blue waters. The park prides itself for having a zipline that traverses to the nearby Daraga Islets.  A 180-degree view of the serene and beautiful Malajog Beach in Calbayog City The beach already had locals enjoying its serene vibe and still waters when I got to the beach. From the coast, you could view the islands of Pawikan and Biyatungan on the horizon. There are cottages and resorts that line the shores but I was quick to notice that the shoreline was clean. The south side of the beach is rugged with its rock formations.
I headed towards the ridge and the rock formations. Concrete platform and stairs were installed along the ridge for ease of visitors in the area. The zipline was not operational on the day of my visit. I managed to climb up the stairs to catch a panoramic view of the shoreline of Malajog. There is also a rest stop at the foot of the stairs where you get to enjoy the more rugged side of the beach. Food Munch: Calbayog Lechon Just right along the streets of Nijaga Park, vendors caught my attention for the food that they were selling - lechon!!! Lechon is one of my favorite food and Cebu was always, hands down, my favorite. Well, Calbayog’s Lechon could give Cebu’s a run for their money. I later on discovered that the streets near Nijaga Park become a lechon strip on Saturdays and Sundays where local vendors get to sell the viand. I did not miss on the chance and got me a half a kilo order to try it out and it was really good. The lechon meat was tender and juicy and you don’t need any “sawsawan” to enjoy it. Now, the best lechon for me is between Cebu and Calbayog. POST TRAVEL NOTES Calbayog City oozes with that old town charm feel that is laidback and where afternoons are best enjoyed either by the “pantalan” or walking around town with friends. Everything is within reach. You get the urban amenities like malls and posh looking cafes without losing out on a beach spot that is within reach on a weekend. You get the community spirit as they spend lazy afternoons by the plaza where almost everyone knows everyone. This is what we are missing out in the metro. The vibe where the chances of you bumping into someone you know is higher than stumbling as you walk around town.  Ituloy na natin ang ating revenge travel!!! G? Let's see Q! People would always ask me what do I get from traveling around the Philippines. Well, I get to see beyond the stories that we read in books or what we learn from school. I get to see how communities thrive despite the circumstances that they face. I get to hear, first hand, stories of success or struggles of individuals so I get to understand better. Hindi yung mga nauusong kwentong kunyari naiintindihan pero ang totoo… it is all for the hugot para kunyari nakarelate. I enjoy exploring the Philippines because its raw beauty comes alive more with real stories from real people that I meet along the way. It makes me realize how proud I am to be Filipino and what we need to do to become better Filipinos. Check out my latest Youtube travel video here: #ByahengOffTheGrid Calbayog #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli #IWantSamar #BdayTravel2022 Getting there: You can take a direct flight to Calbayog City although the flights are limited. You can also opt to take a flight to Tacloban City where you can take a van at the VS Grand Tours station in the city proper to Calbayog City. Calbayog City is about 4-hour travel from Tacloban.
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The laidback and rustic vibe on this side of the Philippines caught me off-guard. I have been to different places in the country that have almost the same kind of vibe but nothing seems to come close to this destination. It makes you fall in love with it and the experience lingers in you so much that you would want to come back. Everything here seems to command peace and serenity. This is #GuiuanAndOnly.  Let's go on a second dose of my #GuiuanAndOnly. Facing the vast waters of the Pacific Ocean, Guiuan played a silent role in Philippine history - from the arrival of the Spaniards to the liberation of the country in World War 2. You would not think that this quaint beautiful town witnessed historical milestones that most of us only got to read when we were in school. Guiuan is a paradise with stories to share and spots that will keep you amazed and wanting more. The Shrine St. Anthony of Padua (Sulangan) Also known as the Sulangan Church, the shrine was dedicated to St. Anthony de Padua who is the Patron Saint of lost items, lost people, and lost spiritual goods. Locals and devotees troop to the church because of it is believed to miraculous. People offer prayers to St. Anthony with the faith that he will grant it to them.
The quaint church was restored after it was damaged by typhoon Yolanda. Its interior was simple and elegant with a crown-shaped altar and a crucifix as its centerpiece. A smaller altar on the right flank of the church bears the revered image of St. Anthony of Padua. My visit was just in time because the parish was celebrating its annual fiesta. Miss Janet of the Guiuan Tourism Office shared with us that there were a number of activities lined up since it was the first face-to-face celebration after the pandemic. The activity includes the “panata” where the faithful would walk from different parts of Guiuan to Sulangan Church. Sulangan Bridge There is a different kind of love when it comes to bridges in Guiuan. Since the municipality are composed of islands, two major islands are connected by bridges to the mainland where the town center is located. Calicoan Island is connected to Guiuan via the Pagnamitan Bridge, which I featured in my previous blog, and Sulangan Island is linked by the Sulangan Bridge to Calicoan. These bridges have become an attraction in itself in Guiuan.  Getting ready for the customary bridge shot in Guiuan's Sulangan Bridge. The Sulangan Bridge is a steel bridge that spans a saltwater channel that separates the islands of Calicoan and Suluangan. From the bridge, you get to see the rustic beauty of the river side of Sulangan, the still waters of the channel, and a distant view of the island of Homonhon on the west. It is a perfect place to get that “walking on a bridge” shot and a perfect spot to laze around in the afternoon. Loading Point Beach (Sulangan) One thing that I really enjoyed in Guiuan was being able to crash into beach spots whenever there is one around. You are not charged any entrance fees so you get to enjoy the feel of the sun, sand, and saltwater on your skin ANYTIME you feel like it. The white sand beach spots were heaven for a beach bum like me.  Enjoying the sun, sea, and sand of Loading Beach with Homonhon Island on the horizon.
Loading Point is a white sand beach spot that is adjacent to Sulangan Bridge. The beach is located where the waters that go through the channel meet the waters of Leyte Gulf. It is a no-frills beach spot where you can rent a cottage to enjoy a full day of beach bumming or, just like me, I just found my corner by the shore to enjoy the view and its cool waters.
Loading Point offers a good view of Homonhon Island. It also gives you a different perspective of Sulangan Bridge. You can also enjoy its cool and still waters and, if your timing is perfect, you also get to catch its mini-sandbar. Linao Cave and Lagoon (Calicoan) I seriously need to thank the “diwatas” that guard Linao Cave for working their powers for me to experience the beauty of this natural wonder. It took three attempts before I finally got through the cave and enjoy the beauty and cool waters of its lagoon. I seriously think that I was destined to see its natural beauty despite of the circumstances.  Enjoying the cold waters and the serene vibe of Linao Cave. Linao Cave and Lagoon is one of the popular natural attractions of Guiuan. The name is derived from the local waray-waray word “linao” which means “clear” to describe the clear fresh waters of its lagoon. The lagoon is located inside a cavern with an overhead cave opening where light passes through. One needs to navigate through a small cave, located adjacent to the lagoon, and swim across a smaller pool to get there. Unfortunately, I was informed by the tourism office that the cave was recently closed to allow nature to recover from its tourism activities. They told me that I can try but they cannot give the assurance that I will be able to explore the cave and the lagoon. Getting to the location was relatively easy. The jump-off point is located along the main highway and, from there, one would have to walk 500 meters to the cave opening. With my tricycle driver/guide, Kuya Inoy, in tow, our first attempt had us going through the trail in its forested area that routed us back to the main highway. As it turned out, Kuya Inoy was not familiar with how to get to Linao Cave. Our second attempt had us starting all over again from the jump-off while I measured the distance that we trekked. We found another trail, where we made a wrong turn on our first attempt, that lead us to the mouth of the cave. Again, it was closed and we also figured out that we would need a guide to get inside.
As we were leaving, we came across the guide/caretaker of the property. He convinced us to go with him for a third try and this time he guided us through the cave where we had to scramble on rocks and swim across the pool in pitch dark and using a cellphone flashlight. We had successfully conquered Linao Cave and Lagoon!  You also get to enjoy nature's art with Linao Cave's rock formations. The best part of exploring the Linao was that we had the cave and lagoon all for ourselves. I was amazed at its beauty and I loved the serenity of the place. I loved how the sound of dripping water echoed inside the cavern. Of course, I did not miss out on the chance to take a cool and refreshing dip in its cold spring waters. My takeaway - keep trying because you will never get to see the what’s in store if you quit on your first try. Calicoan Surfing Spot (Calicoan) Guiuan faces the Pacific Ocean on the east. The waves in the Pacific and the coastline of Calicoan make it an ideal spot for surfing. In fact, Guiuan is said to be gearing itself to becoming the next surfing destination in the Philippines. So it is not a surprise that you would find surf schools in the Calicoan area.  I am enjoying beach bumming in Guiuan.
I managed to make a quick stop in one of the beaches in Calicoan where one can surf. It sits along the highway and, just like the other beaches in Guiuan, you can crash through it for free. The spot was nice and cozy with a couple of accommodations nearby. The sun was glaring along the coast and I managed to find myself a shaded spot along its white sand coastline.  A view of the Pacific Ocean from the shores of Calicoan. The beach is picturesque with its perfect view of the waters of the Pacific and white sand. You can hear the sound of the waves crashing from a distance. The water was still at the time of my visit and there was just one guy swimming. The sun was glaring on me but this was a spot where you get to enjoy the beach in its true essence - the breeze, the sound, and the warmth without the crowd. Veteran’s Park / Ngolos Naval Base (Calicoan) In the laidback barangay Ngolos is a park dedicated to the veterans of World War 2. The location is a mute witness to two significant events in Philippine history - during the circumnavigation of the world led by Magellan and during the the liberation of the Philippines in World War 2. As I would put it, Ngolos is hallowed grounds for the birth of our nation.  The Veteran's Park in Brgy. Ngolos was a former site of a WW2 naval base.
We all know that Gen. MacArthur fulfilled his “I shall return” promise when he landed in Palo, Leyte to signal the start of the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese hands. What most of us don’t know is that Guiuan was a vital point of the liberation. The town became one of the biggest naval bases in the Far East that was set up by the Americans. The Veteran’s Park was the location of the naval base. In fact, the barangay’s name Ngolos was derived from the name of the naval base - US Naval Ground Operations LOgistic Support Base. After the war, the military forces were pulled out and most of its structure were stripped. What is left of the former base are the remains of the camp’s flagpole and the concrete roads inside the camp. Nature has reclaimed most areas. A small park was installed as a reminder of Guiuan’s pivotal role in World War 2. Quincentennial Marker (Calicoan) History is engraved in the islands of Samar. The birth of the Philippines as a nation started on the islands under its jurisdiction. It was believed that Calicoan Island in Guiuan was the first island to be spotted by crew of Magellan before the fleet set foot in Homonhon Island.  The Quincentennial Marker located at Calicoan. It is believed that Magellan's fleet first caught sight of these shores.
As you head towards the beach front, you would come across two historical markers - the historical marker from the National Historical Institute written in Spanish and the Quincentennial Marker. Both markers celebrate the first circumnavigation of the world by Magellan. As narrated, the fleet of Magellan caught sight of the coastline of Calicoan but was not able to dock because of the island’s rugged coastline. The fleet continued on south where they eventually docked in Homonhon Island.  Standing on the shores that Magellan's eyes first laid on in the Philippines. It was a different feeling standing on the white sand shores on this side of Calicoan. You feel the sense of pride as I stood on the shores where our journey as a nation started and where we fought our ground to regain our pride as a country. This was the beauty that welcomed Magellan to our land. I was thinking… were they captivated? I also thought of how many soldiers sat on this shore to watch the sunrise before they went on to fight. How many of them lived to tell the beauty of this destination. I stood amazed as to how this laidback town is packed with natural beauty and a history that it continues to share. POST TRAVEL NOTES Guiuan is a gem waiting on the side for its turn to get a spotlight. I am happy that I changed my travel plans even if it meant I had to cram on my research while on the road. I got to see the raw beauty of the place from the eyes of how locals see and experience it. Guiuan captured my heart. It is a place that I would not hesitate to go back and explore. I loved everything about it. It slowed me down and it reminded me that my happy place will always be the ones that are laidback, rustic, and off the radar.  We are heading west on our next travel. Who would have thought that a change in my travel itinerary would introduce me to a destination that perfectly fits me? I have been to a number of place in the Philippines and Guiuan left a huge mark in me. I wouldn’t mind going back to this place to enjoy the Guiuan vibe. It is, unmistakably, a chance travel that had me wanting for more. Check out my #ByahengOffTheGrid Guiuan Youtube travel video blog here: #ByahengOffTheGrid Guiuan #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli #IWantSamar #EasternSamarOutThere #GuiuanAndOnly Getting there: To get to Guiuan, you can take a plane to Tacloban City from any major hub in the Philippines. You can then take a jeep or a trike from the airport to Van-vans Downtown Tacloban Teminal where you can take a van to Guiuan. Travel time from Tacloban to Guiuan is around 3-4 hours. Tourism Contact Person: Miss Janet Ramos at (0945) 4695971 Trike Contact for Guiuan Tour: Kuya Inoy at (0997) 9617295
Travel opens you to changes and let’s you discover things because of these changes. A last minute change in my Samar Birthday trip last month led me to discover a small town on the Eastern side of the country that lets you enjoy a laidback beach vibe. This is Guiuan - a small town facing the Pacific that has volumes of history in the midst of its natural beauty.  Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to welcome you to another off-beat destination - Guiuan, Eastern Samar. Guiuan is a municipality that unknowingly played a significant part in Philippine history. Located on the southernmost coast of Eastern Samar, it was on the island of Homonhon that Magellan first set foot in the country during his historic voyage around the world. Fast forward 500 years later, Guiuan has kept its provincial laidback vibe and is starting to get traction in the tourism front as a surfing spot and for its natural attractions. Guiuan Municipal Hall My first stop as soon as I got to Guiuan was its municipal hall. My purpose was to get more information about how to get around Guiuan because, unlike other destinations, I was not met with habal-habal or trike drivers that offered tours despite my “turista” look. The new and sleek municipal hall is located a few blocks from the town center and you can choose to walk or take a trike going there.  The sleek-looking Guiuan Municipal Hall. The municipal hall serves as the center of governance in Guiuan and this is where you’d find most of the local government offices, including the tourism office. I got to meet Guiuan’s Tourism Officer, Miss Janet Ramos, who warmly accommodated and briefed me on the history and the attractions of their place. She went on to make transportation arrangements for me which was a huge help with my two-day stay in the laidback town. Meeting her and her team was my first taste of Guiuan’s warm hospitality. Immaculate Conception Parish Church At the heart of the town of Guiuan is the Immaculate Conception Parish Church, more popularly known as Guiuan Church. The church was founded by the Jesuits in 1595 and the stone church was built in 1817. The adjacent belfry was built next in 1854. The church was nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Philippines, however it was removed from the roster after Typhoon Haiyan destroyed the church.  The Spanish-period Guiuan Church sits at the heart of town. The church was completely restored in 2019 with only its belfry and stone walls intact from the old structure. The church sits within a fort and is known for its shell ornamentation. The church facade has a historical marker that outlines its brief history. The Guiuan Church was declared a National Cultural Treasure in 2001 by the National Museum.
The restored interiors of the church was a real beauty with its grand designs. This is the first time that I have seen a church with 3 retablos, two on the side walls, that are of the same size. Adjacent to the main altar, are two smaller chambers or prayer rooms bearing smaller altars. The church is popular for the shell designs that adorn the smaller chambers. These shell ornamentations are said to be made of 8 types of seashells giving the church a unique personality. Guiuan Town Plaza Just right across the Guiuan Church is the sprawling town plaza of Guiuan. Similar to other Spanish-period towns, the plaza serves as the heart of the town and, around it, are the three main elements of the community - governance, religion, and commerce. I guess the Municipal Hall was once located within the same area.  The Rizal Monument stands on one side of the Guiuan Town Plaza. The Guiuan Town Plaza has a corner that honors Dr. Jose Rizal. A children’s playground and open park are located adjacent to the Rizal monument. This is where you would find the “I ❤️ Guiuan” sign. Right across the park is the huge auditorium where town activities are held. DOST - PAGASA Guiuan Weather Station The Radar, as most locals would call it, is a weather station equipped with a doppler radar system located in Guiuan. Renovated with the aid of the JICA, the station helps in predicting weather movement in the country and helps mitigate the impact of weather disturbances on lives and livelihoods. It is more than just a monitoring station of PAGASA because it is also part of the attractions of the municipality.  The "Radar", as locals call it, offer an amazing view of the Pacific Ocean. Located around 60 meters above sea level and facing the Pacific Ocean, the station offers an amazing view of the Pacific coastline of Guiuan. One needs to go on a short and steep hike on the seaside hill to reach the station. Guests are treated to a beautiful 180-degree view of the Pacific Ocean, Dumpao Beach, and Calicoan Island. One also gets to enjoy the relaxing sea breeze blowing in from the Pacific while enjoying the view of the sea and the island. Dumpao Beach Dumpao Beach is a simple and relaxing beach that is a few minutes from the town center. It is a long stretch of white sand beach that faces the Pacific Ocean. Interestingly, the waters are not deep and still because the waves break off-shore making the beach ideal for kids and the kids-at-heart.  A perfect Pacific beach view at Dumpao Beach. The beach is pristine and laidback. It was a perfect place to chill in the afternoon, either by taking a dip or just simply walking along the length of its shoreline. You don’t get charged for entrance fees, although, you need to pay for hut rentals if you intend to use one. The waves break a few meters from the shore giving the shoreline shallow still waters that is perfect for pictures or enjoying the feel of saltwater on your feet. There were areas along the beach that had rock formations. Again, it was a perfect backdrop for those dramatic shots. It is a perfect beach spot if you are looking for an unadulterated and no-crowd beach spot in Guiuan. Pagnamitan Natural Pools If there was one attraction and activity that caught my attention in Guiuan, it would have to be the Pagnamitan Natural Pools. A video of a man being carried by water current as he slid down under the bridge to the pools convinced me to change the original plan for this trip. I just had to try that one out in Guiuan.  The Pagnamitan Bridge connects Guiuan to the island of Calicoan. The islands of Guiuan and Calicoan is connected by the Pagnamitan Bridge. The bridge spans a channel that connects the Pacific Ocean and the Leyte Gulf. On the side leading to the Leyte Gulf are two pools that has a depth of 3 feet to 7 feet, depending on the tide. Some say that these “pools” were bomb craters from World War 2 while others would say that it was from a dynamite explosion. However it was created, these natural pools is now one of the attractions in Guiuan.  Locals enjoying the waters of the Pagnamitan pools. When the tides are high, one can "slide" under the bridge. At a certain time of the day, seawater from the Pacific Ocean would flow down under the bridge. The current is strong enough to make a person go with the flow and one would float from one side to the other, passing under the bridge. Unfortunately, I was not able to take on the challenge because the tides were not in my favor. Guiuan Airstrip Unknown to many, Guiuan is significant in Philippine history. The island of Homonhon, where Magellan first set foot, is under its jurisdiction. It also served as the base of liberation forces during World War 2.  The Guiuan Airport is a favorite afternoon spot for a quick jog while waiting for the sunset.
Establishing the base camp for liberation forces paved the way for the construction of an airport in Guiuan. The airport would accommodate the war aircrafts during the liberation of the Philippines. It originally had 2 airstrips and there are claims that it hosted the biggest landing force during the war. The airport was later turned over to the Philippines by the Americans after the war. At present, the Guiuan Airport is considered a feeder airport and has only 1 operational runway. It was used as a hub during the Typhoon Yolanda relief operations. There are plans to develop the airport to accommodate commercial flights to help boost commerce and tourism in the area. The airport is also a favorite local spot for afternoon exercises and, interestingly, for sunset viewing. POST TRAVEL NOTES Change is a constant in our world and, often times, change gives us the opportunity to discover something new that will sweep us off our feet. Guiuan was no exception and it took a video of a smiling man being carried by flowing seawater under a bridge to catch my attention and change my plans for this birthday trip. It did not disappoint. I discovered a destination that lived off a simple vibe in a natural setting - a complete back to basic feel. But wait… there is more.  But wait... there is more. Papunta pa lang tayo sa exciting part. Travel gave me the opportunity to see the world beyond my usual. Mainstream and off-beat destinations have given me a glimpse of both worlds. I must say I love off-beat destinations more because I like the vibe that stands closer to how locals live daily and enjoy their place. I guess I am the person who loves destinations where you go with how the day of the locals go. Check out my #ByahengOffTheGrid Guiuan Youtube travel video blog here: #ByahengOffTheGrid Guiuan #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli #IWantSamar #EasternSamarOutThere Getting there: To get to Guiuan, you can take a plane to Tacloban City from any major hub in the Philippines. You can then take a jeep or a trike from the airport to Van-vans Downtown Tacloban Teminal where you can take a van to Guiuan. Travel time from Tacloban to Guiuan is around 3-4 hours. Tourism Contact Person: Miss Janet Ramos at (0945) 4695971 Trike Contact for Guiuan Tour: Kuya Inoy at (0997) 9617295
“Give us back those Balangiga bells. They are ours. They belong to the Philippines. They are part of our national heritage. Isauli naman ninyo. Masakit 'yan sa amin.” - Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (07.24.2017) - I have been wanting to see the bells since its return in 2018. More than the history that I read and the movie that I saw, the bells symbolize how the sheer political will of a nation’s leader brought back a heritage artifact that redeemed a small town’s pride and honor. That town is Balangiga in Eastern Samar and this is their story and place in our history.  Balangiga in Eastern Samar is your typical Philippine town that has a colorful story to share. Balangiga is a town of more than 14,000 people on the southern coast of Eastern Samar. It is a typical rural “in-between” spot in the country that most people would pass through during travels. It may not have the usual “touristy sites” for a lot of travelers but this small town played a huge role in Philippine history that, to this day, remains subject to different interpretations. And, it all started with the tolling of the Balangiga Bells. Balanginga Town Plaza: The Story Unfolds Like any other Philippine town, the town plaza sits at the heart of Balangiga. The plaza serves as a venue for local events and activities. It has been a silent witness to the town’s joys and pains from the recent to its distant past.  The Balangiga Massacre Monument sits at the heart of the town. Beyond its daily buzz, the Balangiga Town Plaza is home to a monument that tells the story that placed the sleepy town in the annals of Philippine history. On the morning of September 28, 1901, villagers made a surprise attack on the Company C of the 9th US Infantry Regiment. The ringing of the bells marked the start of tge attack against the American troops. The attack caused 44 deaths, 22 wounded, and 4 missing in action on the American regiment. The Americans retaliated with General Smith ordering to shoot any Filipino aged 10 years and above and turn Samar into a “howling wilderness”. The church bells of Balangiga were later seized as war trophies.
The Balangiga Monument depicts the scene of the attack by the Filipinos on that fateful day. On the side of the monument is a list of names of the Americans and Filipinos who were present during the attack engraved on the wall. Another monument featuring Valeriano Abanador, the police chief during that time and who led the attack, stands adjacent to the monument. The historical marker of the event was also installed on Abanador’s monument. The Balangiga Encounter/Massacre is commemorated every year in Eastern Samar and is considered as the “worst defeat of US Army soldiers since the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876”. Balangiga Church: In Memoriam At the center of the Balangiga Encounter is the Spanish-period Balangiga Church. The church is also known as the Church of San Lorenzo de Martir as it was dedicated to the Roman martyr in 1854. The church played a significant role in the attack as the tolling of its bells signaled the start of the attack by the irregular Filipino forces against the Americans.  The Balangiga Church was at the center of the attack as its bells signaled the start of the attack. The Church of San Lorenzo de Martir stands out as an imposing structure against the rustic vibe of the town. The church facade is like a fortress that exudes strength and built. The wave design on the top stands out and it was my first time to notice such design on a Spanish-period church. The belfry stands adjacent to the church and dominates the skyline of the town.
Unlike most Spanish-period churches in the country, the interior of the church has a modern touch. Solid rock walls were replaced with concrete pillars and grilled side walls giving the church a more airy and refreshing feel. The simple altar is complements the whole ambiance of the church.
The side of the church, behind the church’s belfry, is a memorial for those who died during the Balangiga Encounter. A small plot where small white crosses were installed to remember those who died on that fateful day. A common grave where human bone fragments are interred and displayed was also installed. These bones were unearthed on the churchyard and is believed to be the bones of unnamed individuals who died on that day. Balangiga Bells: The Long Way Home The Balangiga Church had 3 bells that were minted in different years. The oldest bell was casted in 1853 and bears the Franciscan Coat of Arms. The second bell was casted in 1889 while the smallest bell was casted in 1895. The tolling of the smallest bell that signaled the start of the attack and all three bells were later on, in retaliation by the Americans, were confiscated as war trophies.  The return of the Balangiga Bells is significant as it was a symbol of the Filipinos patriotism and courage. On the hands of the Americans, one of the church bells was in South Korea and the other two were in Wyoming. The bells were finally repatriated to the Philippines in December 11, 2018. Finally in December 15 of that same year, the bells were finally installed in Balangiga and was rung at dawn the next day to signal the start of the Simbang Gabi. It took decades of lobbying and a Duterte presidency to finally bring back the bells to its rightful place bringing back the pride and glory of the town of Balangiga. POST TRAVEL NOTES I have been wanting to see the Balangiga Bells since its return to Philippine soil. It is a legacy that it was during the time of the PRRD’s administration that it was repatriated as we took a stand to return what is rightfully ours. The bells are more than just a century-old artifact. It is a symbol of the bravery of Balangiga townsfolk as they fought for their freedom against the Americans. It embodies the pride and glory of a town that took a stand against oppression.  Time to explore a beautiful destination that is off the radar, for most travelers. The town of Balangiga is not the usual tourist destination that draws visitors because of its natural beauty or attractions. In fact, it is the opposite. It is a simple town that exudes the rustic and provincial ambiance. But beyond the attractions that we often look for, Balangiga offers a narrative that evokes a sense of pride and courage as a Filipino. As you hear the bells of Balangiga tolling, always remember the story by Filipinos for Filipinos. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli Getting there: To get to the town of Balangiga, you can take a plane to Tacloban City from any major hub in the Philippines. You can then take a jeep or a trike from the airport to Van-vans Downtown Tacloban Teminal where you can take a van to Guiuan. You can ask the driver to drop you off at Balangiga. Travel time from Tacloban to Balangiga is around 3 hours.
A family weekend had us going for a daytrip to join in the festivities in Batangas. I haven’t attended a Filipino fiesta for a long time that it really got me excited to enjoy one, not to mention the opportunity to get to explore the town where my wife’s family had its roots. It was going to be a day of laughter and exploration in the small town of Bauan.
Established as a visita in 1590, the town of Bauan was originally situated on the southern shorelines of Taal lake. The present location, along Batangas Bay, was established in 1690 and is the fourth site of relocation of the town. Bauan had a bigger land area during earlier times but parts of its jurisdiction later on were granted municipal status. It has been identified as part of Metro Batangas which is largely why it is continually developing in terms of commerce. Immaculate Conception Parish (Bauan Church) The Bauan Church, located at the center of town, is a focal point of locals from the town’s humble beginnings to the present. It is one of the century-old churches in the province. The first church was built along the slopes of Mount Macolod but an eruption of Taal Volcano prompted the first resettlement of the community and the church. The present church is the 7th structure to be built after the previous ones were destroyed by natural calamaties and the Philippine Revolution.  The Church of Bauan is one of the oldest churches in Batangas. It also holds a place in Philippine history. The church structure that was completed in 1881 was said to be the most artistically built in the whole of Batangas. It was also a repository of rare books collected by the then parish priest, Father Felipe Bravo. In fact, the church had a museum for natural history. Unfortunately, all these books and collections were destroyed when the church was razed down during the 1898 Philippine Revolution. The present church structure was a restoration done in 1938. The church and the belfry stands as an attraction at the town center. An image of the wooden cross or what locals respectfully call “Poon” stands at the center of the courtyard and atop the church’s facade. The simple facade is a complete contrast to the grand interior of the church. The beautifully painted high-ceilings, the dome, and the gold-colored altar is a grand interpretation of the local’s faith through the years. Again, an image of a cross stands on a secondary altar adjacent to the main altar.
The cross or the “Mahal na Poong Santa Krus” is a revered image in Bauan. As the story goes, the cross was said to be made in 1595 as a protection from ghosts. However, the cross is often associated to other miracles that happened in the area. The cross is also believed to have protected Bauan from both natural and man-made calamities. This has been the main reason for the devout faith on the miraculous image of the crucifix. Plaza Orense Plaza Orense is a small town plaza located just right in front of the church. Like other Philippine towns, the plaza is the main venue for events and celebrations. A stage is located on one side of the plaza and the rest, within its vicinity, are open spaces. It is relatively small compared to the other plazas that I have seen and I could imagine how the crowd spills over along the provincial road and Kap Ponso Street when there are events being held.
Apart from being an events place, the plaza also serves as a reminder on the bravery of local Filipino heroes. At the corner facing the church stands a monument dedicated to Andres Bonifacio, the man behind the Katipunan. The other corner holds another monument that aptly recognizes Bauan as the “town that refuses to die”. The monument is dedicated to the local heroes who fought during World War 2. Bauan Municipal Hall On the other end of the provincial highway, infront of the church, stands the Bauan Municipal Hall. The compound holds the offices that cater to the public welfare of Bauan residents. It is the seat of power of local governance of the municipality. What stands out when you visit the hall is the architecture that has a good fusion of the new and the old. The original art deco facade of the munisipyo was preserved during the renovations. The facade features elaborate and stylized designs of agricultural products and was designed by Juan Arellano. Behind the culturally significant facade stands a more modern designed building that is home to the local government offices. It was great to see how culture and history is valued despite the onset of development in Bauan. Bauan Market Despite the economic development in Bauan, the public market has maintained its strong business relations with the locals. Located a few blocks from the church, it is the go-to-place of locals for affordable supplies. It is the center economic activity in Bauan as seen by more popular “city” brands in the vicinity.
The public market is undergoing renovations when we visited. Too bad that we also visited late in the afternoon as most of the stalls were either closed or was wrapping up the business day. There were market activities still but it was not as vibrant as the usual Sunday market vibe. Boulevard Aplaya As already mentioned, the present location of Bauan is the fourth site of relocation since the founding of the municipality. This time the poblacion lies along the shores of Batangas Bay. Like any other by the shore towns, Bauan has its own version of a bay boulevard - the Boulevard Aplaya.
The Boulevard Aplaya is a road strip that lies along the coast of the bay. It is a largely a residential area and the road leading to the aplaya can be a bit of a challenge. The strip gives you a nice view of the bay and the surrounding mountains. Unfortunately, the place needs to be developed further and regularly maintained so that more locals and guests can enjoy afternoons in the boulevard. Pasalubong: Londres One pasalubong that is a must when you find yourself in Bauan is Londres. This soft bread coated in sugar is a popular snack among locals, mine too. It goes best with coffee and tablea in the morning and breaks. Make sure that you get one before exploring the town because it is so good that it easily gets sold out.  Bauan is famous for the londres - a bread coated with sugar that goes best with kapeng barako or tablea. There are other snacks that you can bring home from Bauan. Some of our favorites are suman, the round cookies called pasensya, and merengue. Coffee lovers will have a hey day with Batangas Barako while chocolate lovers get a treat with their tablea. POST TRAVEL NOTES Bauan is often referred to as the “gateway to Mabini” but there is more to the place than just passing through it. More than its history, culture, and pockets of attractions, the people of Bauan make the experience. Their warm hospitality and, at times, their curiosity gives you the warmth and nostalgia of an old Philippine town. An hour or two of exploring the town of Bauan will give you that natural transition to a laidback day or weekend.  Get ready to head east on our next trip. More often than not, we always look forward to exploring the popular spots and the places that we pass through are overshadowed by the main destination. Here’s a tip… the next time that you go on a roadtrip, start early and take it slowly. Stop along the route and explore. Trust me, you will be surprised with what you will discover along the way. It will also make the day or weekend trip experience more memorable. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli Getting there: You can take a bus headed to Lipa City or Batangas City where you can take a jeep for Mabini. Ask the driver to drop you off at Bauan.
I have got to admit that this city was crucial in making me realize that Filipinos deserve more. The events that happened after it was hit by Super-typhoon Yolanda became a turning point in my politics. I saw, as an outsider, how the city and the region was forced to its knees and slowly recovered from the ruins of a disaster despite the mismanagement of the national government. This is Tacloban City - ang lugar na noon pa man ay nag-iwan ng tatak sa akin.  Tacloban City made its mark on me prior to me stepping on its soil. Tumatak! First called as Kankabatok, Tacloban City is the center of governance and commerce in Leyte. It is believed that the city was installed in 1770s with its name derived from the local word “tarakluban”, which means using a bamboo contraption called “taklub” to catch crabs, fish, and shrimps. The area of Leyte was crucial during the liberation of the Philippines in World War 2. It was in Leyte where Douglas McArthur fulfilled his promise “I shall return” to the Philippines. The city served as the country’s capital from October 1944 to February 1945. The highly urbanized city is now home to 250,000 residents making it the most populous area in the region. It serves as the main gateway to Eastern Visayas and to the many tourist attractions in the region. Let us go around the city and learn more about its history and its urban beauty. Taralet… San Juanico Bridge The San Juanico Bridge is THE tourism icon of Tacloban City. The 2.16km bridge, a project under the administration of former President Marcos Sr, connected the provinces of Samar and Leyte. Prior to the opening of the Cebu-Cordova Bridge, the San Juanico Bridge was the longest bridge that spanned a body of water in the country.  Making my way across the San Juanico Bridge - the 2nd longest bridge in the country. The bridge is part of the Pan-Philippines Highway or more commonly known as Maharlika Highway. Completed in 1973, the bridge spans the San Juanico Strait, connecting Tacloban City in Leyte and Sta. Rita in Samar. It serves as a vital road network that helped spark economic development in both provinces. The bridge serves more than just a vital infrastructure but also as a symbol of unity. The marker, located at the foot of the bridge, shares the symbolism that the San Juanico Bridge carries. It stands for the unity of the north and the south as one nation.
Of course, I couldn’t miss on the opportunity for a quick joyride on the bridge. I rode a tricycle to get me across to Sta. Rita and then back to Tacloban. We made a few stops along the way to get panoramic pictures of the bridge. Take extra precaution when doing so as it is still a highway over the San Juanico Strait. It was a thrill to finally get to see in person an amazing infrastructure project that has left a legacy to Filipinos. MV Eva Jocelyn Shrine If the San Juanico Bridge was legacy from former President Marcos Sr., the MV Eva Jocelyn Shrine is a reminder of nature’s fury and an administration’s idiocy. The city was hit in full force by Typhoon Yolanda in November 2013. The super-typhoon flattened the city with its brute force and storm surges that left thousands dead. The force was so strong that the cargo vessel MV Eva Jocelyn was washed ashore. It was one of the 10 vessels that were swept ashore.  The Typhoon Yolanda calamity served as my eye opener that Filipinos deserve better. The bow of the ship now stands on the site where the vessel settled after the storm. It is one of the three memorials in the city that were set up in remembrance of the locals who died that fateful day. It also stands as a firm reminder that we are bound to lose more when we put idiots in power. Calvary Hill Overlooking Tacloban City, Calvary Hill offers a perfect view of the city and its surrounding areas. Locals flock to the hill during the Lenten Season as part of their penance as they climb the concrete steps to visit the 14 life-size Stations of the Cross that were installed here. At the top of the hill, is an image of the Risen Christ extending his hands towards the city.  Calvary Hill offers an amazing panoramic view of the city of Tacloban. Calvary Hill is more than just a pilgrimage site. It is also a perfect location for a quick hike in the city. You will be treated with an amazing panoramic view of Tacloban and the San Juanico Strait. From the vantage point, you can clearly see the iconic structures of the city. You also get to enjoy the serene vibe while enjoying the breeze as you cool you down. Leyte Provincial Capitol and Plaza Libertad Did you know that Tacloban City served as the country’s capital during the liberation in WW2? Yes, the city served as the country’s capital from October 1944 to February of 1945. It was in the Capitol Building where former President Sergio Osmena was installed as President of the country.  Tacloban serves as the Provincial Capitol of Leyte.
Today the Leyte Provincial Capitol serves as the center of governance for the province. Its historical significance is marked by a historical marker that outlines its historical value in WW2. There are two tableau that flanks the “Kapitolyo”. Both artworks highlight two significant events in the region - the arrival of the Spaniards in the country and the arrival of liberation forces in Palo, Leyte.
Plaza Libertad is an open-space park in front of the Leyte Provincial Capitol. An image of a lady carrying a knife is the central point of the park. It is a good afternoon spot to chill down and relax after a long day in Tacloban. Tacloban City Hall / Philippine-Japan Commemorative Peace / Madonna of Japan The Tacloban City Hall is the center of city governance. Located atop a small hill along Magsaysay Boulevard, the building houses the local government offices that handles the needs of the city folks. This is where you will also find the “I love Tacloban” sign that would be perfect for your socmed posts.  Enjoying one fine day in Tacloban City. There are two important installations in the city hall compound. The first is the Philippine-Japan Commemorative Peace - a memorial to the soldiers who died in the area. The second is the Maria Canon Madonna of Peace Shrine. The shrine, that sits adjacent to the city hall, features the image of Madonna carved out from Miyagi rock by Japanese sculptor, Shinichi Tani. Archdiocesan Shrine of Santo Nino At the heart of the Catholic faith in Tacloban City is the Santo Nino Church. The church is the most important religious site in the province because it is home to the revered image of the patron saint of the city, the Senor Santo Nino. It was the Agustinians from Cebu that introduced the devotion to the Holy Child when they took over the Jesuits in 1770.  The Tacloban Church is the most important religious structure in the province. The church structure dominates the skyline of the city. In fact, you can see the three belfries of the church jut out from the urban landscape from Calvary Hill. The simple facade of the church is highlighted by the three belfries and the stained-glass window image of the Santo Nino, flanked by the images of the saints.  The altar's centerpiece is the patron saint of Tacloban - the Senor Santo Nino. The inside of the church maintains the simplicity of the church. The altar is void of the usual grand design that old churches usually have. A simple gold-colored altar highlighted by the image of the Santo Nino serves as the main centerpiece of the church. The church was also damaged during the onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda and was rebuilt with the financial assistance a foundation. Price Mansion Tacloban City was vital location during the liberation of the Philippines in World War 2. Because of this, it was not unusual to find structures that remind you of its place in Philippine history. The Price Mansion (CAP Building) in Sto. Nino Street in downtown Tacloban is an example of these structures in the city. The Price Mansion served as the official residence of General Douglas MacArthur for three months when they landed in Palo, Leyte. It is easy to find because of its grand design that stands out. The capiz-shell windows give it that old house heritage vibe. A monument of Gen MacArthur and Pres. Osmena depicting the turnover of the country to Filipinos was installed on the lawn of the compound. People’s Center Library When I first saw the structure when we touched down in the city, I thought that it was an NFA office/warehouse. The massive structure reminded me of huge storage areas of rice in the provinces. Little did I know that it was a storage area of sorts. It was the People’s Center Library that houses volumes of books from here and around the world. The Greek-inspired structure is the believed to be the oldest library in Eastern Visayas. It has a wide collection of books from all over the world that it is often visited by students and researchers. It was already late in the afternoon when I visited it so I only took a peek inside and found the first floor empty. It was like an auditorium. My guess is that they moved the books on the second floor as an after effect of Typhoon Yolanda. Sto. Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum The Santo Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum is a structure that was sequestered by the PCGG from the Marcos family in 1986. The mansion is believed to be one of the alleged 20 Presidential Houses built during that administration. The rest-house has a chapel honoring the Santo Nino, 21 bedrooms, a museum, 2 dining areas, 2 receiving areas, and a grand ballroom. Interestingly despite the association as an alleged Marcos property, the Marcoses never stayed in the “resthouse” and was only used 2 or 3 times since its completion in 1981.  The Santo Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum is one of the most visited tourist attraction in the city. The mansion is said to stand on the ground where the family house of Imelda Marcos once stood. You can find a historical marker on the side of the compound honoring Imelda’s father. The mansion has a 13 themed guest rooms on the first floor and 7 rooms (one for each family member) on the second floor. A chapel on the first floor honors the Santo Nino however official masses are not done there.  The receiving area of the first floor houses a smal chapel dedicated to the Santo Nino.
A museum tour will have a guide walk you through the mansion starting at the chapel. You then walk through the themed guest rooms. The rooms have specific motifs depicting Philippine culture and attractions - Ifugao, Muslim, Ilokandia, Coconuts, Shell, and Capiz, just to name a few. Each room has a diorama of the projects of the First lady and the Marcos Sr. administration. The first floor has its own receiving area and a state dining room.  The art piece entitled "Si Malaks at Si Maganda" at the receiving hall on the first floor. The second floor houses the family rooms. Ferdinand Sr. and BongBong are on one wing complete with its own bathroom and offices while the ladies are on the other wing. The room of Imelda is the grandest having its own jacuzzi. The second floor has its own receiving area and a bigger state dining room. It is also where you will find the ballroom that is said to be a replica of the one in Malacanang. A huge painting of Imelda as a sea goddess holding her kids as pearls is mounted on one of the walls in the ballroom area.  The Main Ballroom on the second floor of the mansion. It was designed similar to that of Malacanang's. The museum also is a repository of artifacts, art works, and antiques. The fixtures of the house are collections in itself as these came from different parts of the world. There are also collections of intricate religious art pieces displayed on the first floor. Ivory pieces and a jade stone are also on display, as well as, gifts given by foreign dignitaries to the Marcos family. The mansion is now a shrine and a heritage museum that showcases Filipino creativity and culture. It also serves as a repository of valuable collections of artifacts from around the world. The discussion as to whether the mansion was a display of the Marcos’ excessive spending is yet to be cast on stone. We had more than 30 years to prove such allegations and yet we still have nothing to date. Unfortunately in that 3 decades, this mansion in Tacloban is slowly decaying when we could have bagged it, kept its grand beauty, and earned more for its proper upkeep. POST TRAVEL NOTES Tacloban City is a city that speaks of resiliency. Going around the city, you could see the unique fusion of its grand place in history and its hardest and harshest moments. You could see how legacy and lessons from different presidents stand alongside with each other. Interestingly, you can also see the contradictions. The city once came down on its knees by nature and further beaten by an administration’s poor crisis management but it managed to stand up on its feet without forgetting the lessons that went with it.  San tayo next? See the hills over there? #SamarThere If there was one destination that opened my eyes, Tacloban City is that destination. It opened my eyes that Filipinos deserve more than just “pogi points”. We need better leaders in action to be a better nation. This city was one that I was excited to visit because it already had a place in my heart long before setting foot on it. Walking its street gave me that assurance that I stood my ground well. And that, my friends, is one benefit of traveling, you see, hear, and learn beyond your bounds. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli Getting there: Tacloban City is an hour away by plane from Metro Manila. All major airlines fly to Tacloban from the major airline hubs of the country. Going around the city economically can be done by jeeps or tricycle.
Exploring the eastern side of Visayas was a long-delayed pre-pandemic plan. It was an easy pick when restrictions were relaxed, coupled by the pressure to use flight tickets that were due to expire. The planning was quick so there were a lot of blind turns along the way. In the end, it was a trip that got me going back to the basics and getting drenched in the rain just to bring #BiliranToYou.  Biliran is my 63rd province! This is it! The island of Biliran was once known as Isla de Panamao where the first large-scale shipyard was established in the 17th century to support the Galleon Trade between Manila and Acapulco. It later adopted the name Biliran in the turn of the 18th century, in reference to the native grass, “borobiliran”, which grew in abundance on the island. It was once a sub-province of Leyte and it was only in 1992 that it was granted its provincial status making it one of the newest provinces in the country. With a total land area of 536 square kilometers, the province of Biliran is the fourth smallest province in the country. It is composed of two major volcanic islands - Biliran and Maripipi. Its rustic feature remains off radar among mainstream travelers largely because it is often overshadowed by the more “popular” beach attractions in Leyte. But don’t be deceived by its rustic vibe because Biliran has its own attractions that will impress you and would make you want to explore the island more. Biliran Bridge The Biliran Bridge is the first attraction to greet you when you find yourself in Biliran. The steel bridge connects the province to Leyte via Poro Island. The bridge spans the channel that connects Biliran Strait and Coalargo Bay.  The Biliran Bridge, built during the Marcos Sr. administration, welcomes visitors coming from Leyte. Complete in 1975 under the Marcos Sr. Administration, the Biliran Bridge spans about 150 meters across the channel. It gives you a good view of the waters that sandwich the province. It serves as the only bridge that connects the province to the rest of the country. It has become an attraction in the province with tourists taking photos of the structure that welcomes you to the province. Ulan-Ulan Falls Ulan-Ulan Falls is one of the popular tourist destinations in Biliran. The name was derived from the local dialect that means “rain” because of the mist created from its cascade is similar to rain droplets. It is easily accessible via a habal-habal ride if you are doing DIY.  Biliran has a collection of waterfall attractions and Ulan-Ulan is one of the popular waterfalls to visit in the island. Located in the hinterlands, guests would need to hike for 5 minutes through a dirt trail from the jump off point. The slippery trail leads down to the base of Ulan Ulan Falls where you get to enjoy its beauty. The water cascades from a height of 25 meters creating a mist as it reaches the base. You can get refreshed from the exploring by taking a cold dip in its catch basin. I enjoyed the feel of the cold spring waters on my skin while I enjoyed and connected with nature.
Ulan-Ulan Falls is surrounded by the Biliran’s tropical forest giving it a more ethereal and relaxing vibe. It was very relaxing to close eyes and feel the cold water on my skin while enjoying the sound of water cascading. I guess the cascade was not in full force during my visit as the mist by its base was not as how the guide described it to us. But it was nice to have all my senses connect with nature at Ulan-Ulan Falls. Sampao Rice Terraces If you think that rice terraces are only found in the Cordilleras, you are wrong. Biliran has its own version. The Sampao Rice Terraces is just one of the terraces that you can find in the province. It is also a traditional way of planting that has been passed on from generation to generation.  The hillside of Biliran holds another man-made attraction - rice terraces. The Sampao Rice Terraces is a terrace field along the hillside of Almeria. The man-made agricultural wonders were hand crafted by early settlers that has been handed down to the present generation. The rugged terrains of this volcanic island paved the way to the construction of these terraces to get better yields in agricultural production. The terraces may not be as breathtaking as those found in the Cordilleras but it has more than just an efficient way of farming for locals. The terraces are now attractions in Biliran. Pundol Falls Pundol Falls is a waterfalls attraction that will make you go up against your fear. Located within the hinterlands, the falls can be accessed after scrambling over boulders from the jump-off point. I didn’t have a guide when I started out as my guide had to watch over my bag when we got to the jump-off. I just followed the sound of the cascade to get to the base of the falls.  A quick stop at the beautiful Pundol Falls to enjoy its cold water running on my feet. Unlike Ulan-Ulan Falls, Pundol Falls has a single cascade and a very deep basin. The water cascades stronger before flowing downstream. It is also surrounded by tropical forests giving guests a good shade from the sun. Locals were enjoying a swim in the cold waters of the Pundol Falls. A group of brave young boys were clambering up the adjacent rock walls of the walls. I was wondering what they were up to when one of the boys jumped into the basin. He jumped from a height of almost 3 or 4 floors of a building!!! I was amazed by the bravery of these kids jumping from that height. The basin must be really deep to safely do a jump from that height.
As I was heading back to the jump-off point, I was humbled by the warm reception of the locals. They were smiling and they greeted back when I greeted them. It was a Saturday and the locals were enjoying the natural beauty of Pundol Falls. Ahhh… these are the simple perks that we all miss out in the city. Sambawan Island Sambawan Island is THE tourism icon of the province of Biliran. Most travelers who get curious with the province target this string of islets located off the coast of Maripipi Island. It is one of the most photogenic and dramatic spots in the country especially during the sunset.  Sambawan Island was a perfect spot to reset from all the toxicity of the 2022 elections. An hour by boat from Kawayan Port in Biliran Island, Sambawan Island was able to keep its pristine beauty. A small dive resort on the island provides guests with the basic amenities for a day or overnight trip to the island. The best view of the island is on its highest point, a 10-minute trek along a concrete pathway, where you can see the string of islets with Maripipi Island on the background. The view on the other side is the “tail” of the main island and another island with the sea as its backdrop. The sunset gave us a good view on both sides.
Sambawan Island is a perfect spot to unwind or reset from our busy, sometimes toxic, life in the city. It offers an escape that allows you to slow down and connect with nature. You get to enjoy basic island living and gives you the appreciation on the simple things in life. You get to enjoy a perfect combination of sand, sea, and sun while keeping you grounded with nature. You can check out my separate blog on my Sambawan here: Wow Sambawan! (An Election Request) POST TRAVEL NOTES I enjoyed the sun, sand, the cold spring water, and getting drenched by the rain in Biliran. My short stay in the island got me excited that I want to go back and explore more of its beauty. It deserves more than a day to explore what it has to offer to travelers like me. Biliran is my kind of destination where its rustic vibe and pristine beauty is worthy of more time and exposure. It is a gem waiting for its turn for the spotlight. San tayo susunod? The bridge that speaks of legacy and the goal of unity. I am excited as we start seeing the pick-up in the tourism sector with a more relaxed community quarantine. This is the time to explore beyond the usual destinations and help in building or re-building local businesses. I am looking forward to exploring more off-beat destinations. Destinations that give me rustic and pristine views of nature. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli Getting there: Biliran can be reached by taking a flight to Tacloban from any local airline hub in the Philippines like Manila and Cebu. You can then take a trike from the airport to Savemore in Tacloban City. A van terminal is located behind Savemore where you can take a van to Naval in Biliran. For ease of travel, you can contact Sambawan Island at (0965) 427 9035. For local tours in Biliran, you can contact Kuya Jovy at (0905) 462 5753.
I needed to reset after this very divisive National Elections. Like most people, I am jubilant with the outcome but I cannot deny that I have been served some toxicity and judgement from other people because of my candidate preference. I needed a break to release the tension that I have kept for so long and traveling is my primary outlet. I had to get wowed and then there was Sambawan.  Finally got my reset from all the toxicity in Sambawan Island! Sambawan Island is a group of islets off the coast of Maripipi in the province of Biliran. It is largely uninhabited except for a small diving resort that offer basic amenities. It is the tourism icon of the province, owing it to having one of the most photogenic spots in the country. Back To Basics The road to Sambawan was not a walk in the park. The longer route would entail taking an hour flight from to Tacloban, a four hour land trip to Kawayan in Biliran, and, finally an hour of boat ride to the island. It was physically tiring but it was the kind that excites me because it gives you that feeling as if you are a contestant in an amazing race game.  Getting my initial dose of the summer sun. The east side of the island is where you could find the sandy coves where the diving resort is located. However, do not expect much from the resort apart from the very basic amenities and, by basic, I mean sleeping on papag. I did not expect this as I had no prior contact with them. I came in unprepared except for the usual malong that I had with me. Sleeping on a hard bamboo flooring wasn’t really the most comfortable experience but it was humbling. The caretaker shared with me that they had just acquired the island from the original hosts. Most of the basic amenities were stripped off. Fresh water can be bought for Php40 per small drum. Electricity only run until 10pm. There’s only a small “canteen” but supplies are limited. You need to either buy food from the Kawayan or bring food to cook in the island. A Perfect View From The Top After settling down and getting over the initial shock, I prepped to head up the highest peak of Sambawan Island. This is the spot that you would often see from those who have already been to the island. A three-minute of huffing and puffing along the cemented trails will bring you to this famous spot in the island.
The view from the top was just jaw-dropping. The view deck gives you two amazing views of two sides of the islets. The north side gives you a scenic trail of islets with Maripipi looming on the background. The south side gives you a relaxing view of two large islets with the sea as it background. The north view is the most photographed view of Sambawan. The vantage point also gives you the ruggedness of Sambawan’s landscape and the turquoise waters surrounding it.  The north side of the island is the most photographed spot because of its dramatic landscape. The view gets even better as the sun sets on the horizon as the golden rays hits the island. The glowing yellow-orange color give the landscape a dramatic glow that stands out against the blue waters and sky. It was just magical that had me getting another round of pictures. The island has a good view of the sunrise and the sunset. Unfortunately, the sunrise was not as good as the sunset as rainclouds covered the mountain top of Maripipi the next morning.  Enjoying the view of the other side of the island.
A small elevated kubo was installed atop the hill where you can rest while enjoying the views and the feel of the sea breeze on your skin. I enjoyed getting a much-needed summer tan while getting immersed with nature. The breeze was just refreshing. The views and the fresh air was a welcome break from all the toxicity of the city and the recently concluded national elections. Back On The Ground You can access two sandy coves on the island. The bigger cove has the basic camping facilities. You can find a cozy spot by the beach where you can enjoy enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. You can enjoy the view while sipping hot coffee in the morning or go for a drink with friends in the afternoon or evening.  You can also get to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea along the white sand coves of Sambawan Island.
If you are up for a more quiet spot, a wooden bridge snakes through the rock edge of the island that leads to the smaller cover. Take extra precaution when you climb down from the bridge onto its rocks. An even smaller cove is found adjacent to it. I was not able to explore the area since it was already getting pretty dark when I attempted to explore it. You also get to enjoy a cool dip under the sun in the turquoise waters of Sambawan. The sand is a combination of white sand, shells, and corals so walking barefoot can be quite uncomfortable. Take extra precaution when swimming as water gets deep a few meters from the shoreline. I enjoyed just floating and letting the salt water energize me.  Enjoying the feel of saltwater on my skin. You can still see traces of how the island was damaged by the typhoon - a destroyed hut needing repairs and a destroyed cemented docking station (I think). The owners of the island is still re-building from what was left. It was good that tourists are starting to explore the island which helps them in their efforts. POST TRAVEL NOTES Sambawan Island gave me my much-needed reset from all the toxicity of the current events. It made me stop and breathe. It energized me by grounding me back through nature’s beauty and getting me back to the basics. The trip was not a comfortable one and, neither, was the overnight stay. There were blind curve balls through the experience. But it did remind me that whatever the circumstances that we face, we should always choose to accept, adjust, and move on. That is how we live and enjoy life.  Where are we heading next? Find time to go for a reset. We all need one to break the monotony of our daily lives or to break the pandemic stress or to shut off the toxicity of the national elections. Go to your favorite corner and just shut down. Get yourself connected and grounded with nature. Release the stress and let the earth recharge you. Exploring is my form of reset. Go and find your reset. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli Getting there: If you are planning to go to Sambawan Island, you need to take a flight to Tacloban City from any major hub in the country. You then take a van from Tacloban City to Naval in Biliran. You then take a public jeep/bus or hire a tricycle or habal-habal to Kawayan Port. You then need to hire a boat 9 (round trip) for the hour-long trip to Sambawan Island. Make sure that you make the pick-up arrangement with your bangkero. For ease of travel, you can contact Sambawan Island at (0965) 427 9035.
A deadline to use my stored flight funds and flight vouchers, or else lose it, had me scampering to book flights for me and my family. We haven’t boarded a plane in two years so this was an exciting activity for me. There were a number of options to choose from but family vacations, when I plan it, needs to have a pinch of adventure. So, I booked us a flight to Cebu to enjoy our first family vacation since the start of the pandemic.  Family vacations should be fun, exciting, and memorable. Badian is a municipality on the southwest side of Cebu province that is popular for its canyoneering activity. The tourism icon of the area is the beautiful Kawasan Falls with its teal-colored spring water. Unfortunately, the province of Cebu was brought down to its knees by supertyphoon Odette, and that included Badian. Our visit was good start to re-introduce the place as it recovers from the pandemic and calamity. 5.17am. Touchdown Cebu. Our one-hour flight went very smoothly from Manila. As we landed in Cebu, I quickly fell in love with the new airport. It evoked a tropical upbeat vibe that excites you. It was early morning so we breezed through the arrival area of the airport. We worked our way from the airport to the city’s South Bus Terminal to catch a bus to Badian.  Touchdown in Cebu. The three-hour trip to Badian was uneventful. The trip treated us with urban and rural views of Cebu. I enjoyed the mix of urban and rural vibe of the cities and the relaxing rustic views of Cebu’s hills and coastal areas. It was a bit gloomy but the trip was relaxing and, since it was my first travel out of Luzon, I was in my element. Cuestas Beach Resort was our home in Badian. It was good that I decided to just stay in Badian for this family trip because Cuestas made our three day vacation a relaxing and memorable one. The resort is a peaceful sanctuary along the coast of Badian with its own beach strip. It has a pool, a jacuzzi, and a couple of huts where you can just chill down and enjoy the calm and peaceful surrounding. They have two kinds of accommodation - the aircon deluxe rooms and the nipa fan rooms. All rooms have a beautiful overlooking view of the resort and the beach.
One thing that we really loved and enjoyed at Cuesta’s was the food!!! Everything we ordered and, even, the breakfast that they served were all good. It was so good that we never tried any restaurant in the area. Highly recommended is their squash soup, sizzling bangus, gambas, burger, and their home-made bread that go with their continental breakfast. Everything that we tried was good and what made it better was the homey vibe of the place. It was our home in Badian. Sardines On The Run and An Unbothered Turtle The weather was still gloomy as we headed out for a full day of adventure on our second day. First on our list was a visit to nearby Moalboal to explore the beauty underneath its waters. Moalboal is a popular destination for divers because of its beautiful and diverse underwater scenes. It is a sanctuary for sea creatures which makes water activities more diverse and exciting.
Our first stop was Pescador Island where we got the chance to enjoy its underwater scene. Initially, the waters scared me a bit after seeing the drop on the side of the island. The initial scare subsided after we started enjoying the beautiful corals, teeming with different kind of fish. We got excited after our guide pulled out a puffer fish from underneath one of the corals. It was a perfect opener for our summer escape.
After about 45 minutes of relaxing and floating around, we then sailed off closer to shore to watch one of the most spectacular nature show underwater - the sardine run. I initially thought that we would be able to watch the spectacle in the middle of the sea and I was surprised that it was closer to the shores of Moalboal. Nevertheless, it was mesmerizing to watch the school of sardines swim in a rhythmic motion, shifting from one direction to another in one choreographed movement. The way I described it was hypnotic. It was a nature shown that I want to see again but I would like to learn to free dive first for a better viewing experience.
From the graceful movement of the sardines, we then moved closer to shore to relaxingly swim with an unbothered sea turtle. This was, by far, the closest and longest encounter that I have had with a sea turtle. My previous encounters had me huffing and puffing as we try to get catch up with this gentle sea creature. This was not the case for this unbothered turtle. It was gently munching on sea grass and, occasionally, go up for air like he doesn’t have a care in the world. It was unbothered by the attention and the excitement of the people around it. It was just doing its thing… well… unbothered.  A quick snap with our sea guides before we went to our next adventure. The quick glimpse of Moalboal was for the books. It was beautiful and enchanting that the place is worthy for a comeback. I will be ready the second time around. The Highs of Canyoneering It was the canyoneering that we came here for in Badian and we were lucky that we were able to do it despite the gloomy weather because of a weather system near the island of Cebu. Canyoneering along Canloab River is the main tourist draw in the area. This high adrenaline activity gets you trekking, clambering on rocks, jumping into the river, and floating in the cold river waters.  Getting ready to conquer the canyons of Badian.
Our adventure started with flying down the zipline over the mountain side and forest covers of Badian from the jump off point. The one minute flight saved us around 20-30 minutes of hike to the river trail. Asher initially wasn’t particularly happy about zip-lining but halfway through, she got the hang of it. The “in-flight” rustic views were amazing and it did give us our intial dose of adrenaline.
They say that it only takes one jump to take away the initial fear of jumping into a raging river. It does. We conquered the Canlaob River as we scrambled on its rocks, swam in its turquoise waters, and leaped alongside its raging cascades. It was an experience that gave us different doses of adrenaline high. Yes, one jump made everything a breeze after.
We saw how much damage Typhoon Odette brought upon Badian. Fallen and uprooted trees lie along the canyoneering trail. Our guide shared that the flooding changed the landscape of the riverbed. Some pre-typhoon canyoneering highlights were no longer in place because of the changed landscape. The damage on tourism facilities became more evident as we approached the famous three-tiered Kawasan Falls. The cliff jump area looked barren and the Badian Dam is missing its ethereal vibe, that I often see in pictures, because of the damaged forest covers around it. The ruins of tourist facilities greeted us as we walked down the trail to view its three cascade. It was disheartening to see the damage but the falls managed to keep the beauty of its turquoise waters that it was known for.  It was a tiring adventure but we were smiling the whole time. It took us more than 4 hours to traverse the “canyons” of Badian. It was already dark, with a little drizzle, when we finally made our way to the main highway. It was a tiring but fulfilling day for us enjoying both nature’s beauty and the aftermath of its wrath. It is slowly recovering and I do plan to go back when the place has fully recovered to again witness its old beauty. Despite the changes, canyoneering in Badian still offers the same thrill and rush amidst a changed landscape. POST TRAVEL NOTES Cebu will always be my happy place and I’m glad it was our first family trip, out of Luzon, after two years of limited mobility. I realized how much I missed riding planes, the thrill of experiencing a new adventure, and making a different kind of memory with the family. As parents, we should make sure that we get to do these kind of adventures with our kids while they are young and, most especially, while we can. The memories that we create, with these adventures, will last as our kids grow old.  Dang! We are definitely back! San tayo sunod? It was also good that we also get to share the adventure with you as Badian re-builds itself. The stories that I am sharing with you now is aimed at encouraging you to go out and explore beyond the usual. Encouraging you to visit destinations that are re-building help speed up the recovery process for the locals. It is a different kind of adventure that go a long way to the community. Go beyond the usual. It was also good that we also get to share the adventure with you as Badian re-builds itself. The stories that I am sharing with you now is aimed at encouraging you to go out and explore beyond the usual. Encouraging you to visit destinations that are re-building help speed up the recovery process for the locals. It is a different kind of adventure that go a long way to the community. Go beyond the usual. Check out our Badian travel adventure on my Youtube travel channel: #ByahengOffTheGrid Badian #StandTogetherPinoy #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli Getting there: Cebu is a major hub in the country and one can take a flight, or take a ferry, to Cebu City. From the airport, you take a taxi to the Cebu City South Bus Terminal where you take a bus to Bato via Barili. You can ask the driver to drop you off at Badian where you can take a tricycle to your resort. If you are staying at Cuesta’s Beach Resort and Restaurant, you can ask the driver to drop you off at the resort. From the highway, it is just a short walk to the resort. You can book your accommodations through the Facebook page of Cuesta’s Beach Resort and Restaurant. You can arrange your Sardine Run and Chasing Turtles and Kawasan Canyoneering Adventures with Kawasan Canyoneering. You can reach them at (0905) 333 2623 or (0918) 654 4111.
In the midst of a hot day in March, I decided to make a quick city exploration in the metro. I haven’t really done any urban hike recently and the heat of the dry season wasn’t exactly giving me the eagerness to explore. This time I had to push myself to explore the city dubbed as the “Gateway to Metro Manila”.  We are off to enjoy the sun on this side of the metro - Pasay City! Pasay City was once part of a confederation known as Namayan. Its name “Pasay” was believed to be from the name of the child to whom the former ruler bequeathed the territory. The territory was renamed twice - the first was “Pineda” during the Spanish period and the second was in 1947 where it was renamed as “Rizal City”. In both cases, locals moved to revert it back to its old name. The city blossomed from being a rustic beachside barangay to a progressive city in the metro. It is the city that welcomes you if you are arriving Manila by air. It is also home to one of the biggest malls and the biggest cultural venue in the country. It is a destination that has fused history, culture, and urban vibe in one progressive city. Join me as we go out and explore Pasay! Sta. Clara de Montefalco de Pasay Church Founded in 1864, the Sta. Clara de Montefalco de Pasay Church is the oldest church in Pasay City. It was dedicated to the St. Clare of Montefalco, a saint under the Augustinian order. The city’s dedication to St. Clare started as early as 1611 when Pasay was still under the jurisdiction of the parish of Malate. It was only in 1863 that the parish of Pasay became independent from Malate.  The Sta. Clara de Montefalco de Pasay Church is the oldest church in Pasay City. The church stands majestically sandwiched by the urban architecture of Pasay. Its facade stands out with its stained-glass windows and its three arched doors. The belfry stands adjacent on the left side of the church bearing six bells. Its interesting how the church perfectly blends with the structures around it. The impressive doors of the church opens up to the elegant interior of the church. Its high-ceilings gives the church a fresh and peaceful vibe like a sanctuary. A crucified Christ stands as the altar’s main centerpiece and adjacent are the two saint honored by the parish. The church strictly follow health protocols. It only allows a limited number of church attendees inside the church so make sure that you come early when you plan to hear mass. Pasay City Sports Complex / Derham Park The Pasay City Sports Complex is a sports facility located along the FB Harrison St. The rundown facility has a swimming pool and basketball courts that locals can access. It is also home to some of the local government offices. During the pandemic, it was converted into an isolation facility for COVID patients.
At the front of the facility is the Derham Park. A monument, complete with a historical marker, honoring Manuel Colayco. He was born in Pasay, served the country during World War 2. He died after being fatally wounded during the liberation operations at UST. The monument gives honor to Pasay’s local hero. Bulwagan ng Lungsod ng Pasay The Bulwagan ng Lungsod ng Pasay is the center of local governance of the city. This is where the local officials hold office. The city is governed by a Mayor, with a Vice Mayor who heads the legislative council. The council is composed of 12 councilors and barangay and youth representatives. The city hall stands along the busy FB Harrison Street and most local government offices are within the same area. The modern design of the city hall complements the urban landscape of the city. Although, do not be fooled because the city has a number of historical sites under its wing. School for the Deaf Tucked along the Harrison Street, the School for the Deaf is the only government institution for the deaf in the country. The idea to establish a school to cater to our visual and hearing impaired Filipinos started in 1907 by Dr. Barrows and a deaf teacher Miss Rice. It would become the pioneer in handicap education in the country and in Asia.  The Philippine School for the Deaf is the first educational institution for the deaf and blind in the country and in Asia. The present location of the school was a lot donated to the program. The school was later re-aligned as a separate school for the deaf and was renamed as the School for the Deaf. The school later evolved as a resource and research institution for the deaf. The Henry Hotel Manila Amidst the buzz of the city, there is a unique and serene hotel that was once a post-war mansion. The vintage hotel is popular for its vintage style houses with a touch of art-deco. The sprawling compound is a relaxing sanctuary right smack in the middle of a busy city network.
You would be surprised with how big the property is when you enter its gates. A driveway leads to the main receiving area and the first thing that caught my attention were the plants and trees that surrounded the area. The greens complemented the wooden structures and it gave that homey and peaceful vibe. The Henry Hotel has a restaurant, a pool, and a sprawling garden that its guests can enjoy. It does not give off that hotel vibe but it seems more like a home where you can enjoy a quiet afternoon reading a book or taking a dip in the pool. I think that it is a good place to take a break and detach without living the city. Cartimar Shopping Center The Cartimar Shopping Center is popular among pet lovers because of its pet shop alleys. I have heard about Cartimar but it was only when I heard about a coffee shop that I got interested with checking it out. From FB Harrison, I took a trike to this old-time shopping center in Pasay.
Long before the emergence of big malls, Cartimar was the place to go in the 70’s and 80’s for PX goods and clothes. It was the go-to place of Makati residents for fresh produce. It was once home to 1000 stall tenants with some of these shops getting the lift on their start-up businesses here. The shopping center has lost its vibe after having to compete with the emergence bigger malls in the metro. It still remains to be the preferred area to shop for pets and supplies if one is willing to travel all the way to Pasay. The stalls are still lined with different merchants offering clothes, shoes, and other merchandise. The pet stores, though, have a lot more activity. Some would probably feel nostalgic walking along its alleys but a lot needs to be done to keep Cartimar within the radar of consumers. Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex Initially conceived in 1966, the CCP Complex is one of the legacies left by the former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos. It is an 88-hectare reclaimed land along Roxas Boulevard that was developed as a tourism and cultural hub in Metro Manila. Post-Marcos development saw its expansion linking it to the Bay City project, a 1500-hectare reclaimed land in Manila Bay.  The Cultural Center of the Philippines is the center of arts in the country.
The complex has a collection of 60’s and 70’s structures designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin. At the forefront is the Tanghalang Pambansa that houses the main offices of the CCP and three performing arts theaters - the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino, and the Tanghalang Huseng Batute. This is the most iconic among all the structures as it serves as the “face” of the CCP Complex. At the far end of the CCP Complex is the Tanghalang Francisco Balagtas or more popularly known as the Folk Arts Theater. The theater is a covered amphitheater that can accommodate 8500 spectators. Again, it was designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin and was built in only 77 days just in time to host the Miss Universe pageant in 1974. The concert venue, since then, has hosted various events and concerts of Menudo, Janet Jackson, and local artists.
The Philippine International Convention Center or PICC is another Leandro Locsin-designed building in the complex. It was the first international convention center in Asia to be inaugurated in 1976. It has hosted both national and international business conferences, meetings, and social events. Other pertinent structures in the area is the Manila Film Center, the Sofitel Manila, the Coconut Palace, and the metro’s amusement park Star City. The plan for the area would see the development of 6 areas/clusters that was supposed to be built by phases in 10 years. As of this writing, the project has still to be started or completed. Mall of Asia A trip to Pasay City is not complete without visiting the Mall of Asia. The mall is the largest in the Philippines and the third largest in the world. Located along Bay City, it is home to a total 663 tenants. It also has a sunset promenade, an amusement park, and the MOA Arena.
I am really not a fam of malls but one thing that I love about the SM MOA is its sunset promenade where you get to enjoy the breeze and the views of the famous Manila Bay sunset. The promenade is perfect to catch the sunset after a full day of going around the mall or before catching up with friends over dinner. One thing that I would like to try though is watching the sunset while aboard the MOA eye. Anyone willing to join me? POST TRAVEL NOTES From a seaside barangay to a progressive city, Pasay City has grown leaps and bounds through the centuries. I guess it is one of those cities who have lost its old town charm as it embraced development and progress. Don’t get me wrong, the city still has pockets of history but the vibe that managed to get fused with its development is from the 70’s and 80’s. One thing that is distinct though was how Pasay has managed to fuse history, artistry, and urban vibe in one city.  We are getting a complete summer thrill this 2022! #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Exploring the metro has given me a glimpse of how cities embraced progress. While some managed to keep the old town charm, there are those that managed to completely embrace development that it gave the city a different personality. It’s these changes and fusion that make each destination unique and it is that unique trait that attracts more travelers to visit. What makes your place different? #StandTogetherPinoy #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli Getting there: You can take the LRT 1 and go down at the Libertad Station in Pasay City.
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Marc del Rosario
I believe in education, entrepreneurship, and caring for the environment. 
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