IN PURSUIT OF QUEZON'S FABLED WATERFALLS ...

The sun was blistering hot that day. Summer was at its peak and most people are struggling to keep themselves cool.  If you're in the heart of Quezon Province, the idea of a refreshing swim in a beach or a river is simply far-fetched.  But our local contacts told us to go to this waterfalls hidden in the mountain ranges of Atimonan for a refreshing dip.

Being an adventure-seeker that we are, we followed his suggestion and went out to search this fabled waterfalls, where a golden bell is said to be hidden beneath its depths. After a long, slow travel on a winding road, we finally stopped on this seemingly unnoticeable road sign that says Welcome to Bantayan Waterfalls and Caves.

The simple tarpaulin signage along the road.

My Melancholia in MALAPASCUA

It felt sad and depressing when I left Malapascua Island.  I didn't want to board that boat yet. The sea is so inviting for another swim, for another day of lazing along the beach and reading my book (Life of Pi by Yann Martel) under the comforting trees.  I have only spent 4 days in this enchanting island and it's never enough to satisfy my insatiable curiosity for this sunny, charming paradise. Though one can explore the entire island by foot in one day, I know there are still more to discover and learn beyond its idyllic beauty. 

Bounty Beach 

MANILA: A Closer Look (Part 1)

I find Manila interestingly charming. This may not be the city I want to live in because of its flood-prone and narrow streets, but I still continue to find myself going here at least once a month to experience her alluring vibrancy and chaos. Her rich history and underbelly piques my imagination like no other city in the Philippines.  Her invaluable role in the country's politics, religion, trade, education and culture sets her apart from the rest. 

Despite her grim appearance, she still possess that indelible character that made her an enviable city in the Far East during her golden, pre-WW II age. One only needs to take a walk to explore and re-discover the remnants of her once glorious past.  You'll be surprised how most of them survived, despite utter neglect. 

PASSPORT 2011

It's a big world out there.  There are so much to learn, to see, to eat, to experience. 

Be brave to explore other places.  If you can't find someone to go with you, then do it alone!  You'll be surprised to meet a lot of solo travelers when you're out there.  

Get your passport now and start collecting those stamps!  Bon Voyage! 

Passport Stamps, 2011. 

PUERTO PRINCESA: The Princess of the West Philippine Sea

My expectations are high for Puerto Princesa City in Palawan. So much has been said about this big city (as the locals claim) that your anticipation has already been heightened even before setting foot on its land.

I went there to film its scenic spots for a travel show so I didn't really have the luxury of exploring it more intimately, like a laidback traveler usually do. Actually, PP is quite hard to explore if you're on a tight schedule and budget. The scenic spots are scattered sporadically that moving around may cost you a lot - both time and money. The best way to cover as many places as you can is to rent your own vehicle (like a van).

ALIW NA ALIW SA ALIWAN FESTIVAL 2011

Every town or city in this country has its own festivities! And most of them are deeply rooted in religious and farming traditions...

In Manila, city dwellers get a glimpse of these festivities from around the country in the annual ALIWAN FESTIVAL. A number of organizations (from various towns/cities) take part in this colorful and merry spectacle to parade their local traditions, beautiful boys and girls, products, artistry and culture!

The parade starts at the Quirino Grandstand and ends in front of Aliw Theatre at the CCP Complex. It's good to see people braving the mid-afternoon heat just to witness this event. The mood is festive and relaxed.

I waited for the parade (floats, costumes, etc.) at Aliw Theatre. I was hoping to get clear pictures with natural light... Unfortunately, the parade arrived early evening and the lights were not strong enough from our position. Anyway, I had fun and it was a great opportunity to experience this kind of grand festivity even in an urbanized city...

ON MY WITS' END IN CALAUIT!

Palawan never ceases to surprise its visitors! The province (or its group of islands) is never called "the last frontier" for nothing!

On its northwestern side lies the island of Calauit - a game preserve where animals are free to roam and propagate! (to know more about the island, visit http://www.calauitisland.com/ ).

Our tour guide told us that this island turned into a game preserve by then Pres. Marcos as a gift to his son, Bongbong. Animals were imported from Africa. Sadly, the succeeding administration never prioritized its maintenance on their budget allocation, thus the island slowly went into oblivion... Consequently, the welfare of the animals suffered. (Yes, the island needs a budget for veterinarians, maintenance of facilities, etc.)