That’s almost halfway done! =D But there’s a problem!

A closer inspection in Satellite View revealed unfinished sections in the supposedly 16-km stretch already completed.

Of course, what’s in Google Map is probably outdated so I called DPWH Region IV-A office. I was foolish to expect a helpful answer. I guess it’s up to Dhona and me then..

September 23, 2012. It was exactly 8 AM when I made it out of the Calamba City and proceeded to take the Maharlika Highway passing thru Santo Tomas, Alaminos, San Pablo City then stopped for gas at Petron KM98 just after Tiaong bypass road. It’s already 9 AM.

I got flagged at a military checkpoint at KM 104. Note the Tanduay logo.. Don’t drink and drive, folks!

The Candelaria Bypass Road starting few meters past KM 104.
Dhona was screaming with delight as we tear down this open road with nothing but ricefields on either side.

Past halfway the bypass road, I made a right going to San Juan.

After almost  10 kms, a quiet intersection with signboards of beach resorts marks the start of the Ecotourism road.

It’s a lot like the Candelaria bypass road, only narrower perhaps.

After some 16 kms of straight, open road, I reached the end of the road.

It’s this lone bulldozer against 13 kms more of road to be built. This project might still take years to complete! :p

Here’s a shot of Mt Banahaw, north of where I am. Sariaya town proper is somewhere beyond those trees (around 15kms away).

I needed to be in Lucena City by 11 and it’s already a little past 10 AM, so I turned around and asked for directions. I was told to take a baranggay road leading to Sariaya proper. The road was bad and I know that I need to quit as early as five kilometers before I get into more trouble. I had to cancel the appointment.

I started to backtrack on the route I took earlier, hoping to enjoy the Ecotourism Road once more. I was curious what this facility is and later found out it’s Nation Gas, beside Nation Granary.

I also dropped by Hacienda Escudero to inquire about their rates… quite expensive for me. |-)

..also stopped for some lanzones (75 pesos per kilo).

I was home just in time for lunch ‘ Til next quickie ride!

We ordered Crispy Tilapia (Php 285), Combo Plate Appetizer (Php 360), Kare Karend Dagat (Php 310) and 6 cups of rice (Php 40/cup) for lunch. The food was awesome! I like the most was the Combo Plate Appetizer that can also be a main dish. It consists of vegetable lumpia, beef balls and ham-cheese sticks. Crispy Tilapia’s saucewill make you want to dip more and eat the cripy fillet.Kare Kare was perfect! Vegetables were not overcooked and the seafood was perfectly cooked in peanut sauce with shrimp paste.

Everybody was full when we left for Underground Cemetery in Nagcarlan, Laguna for a quick picture taking since the place was close during Mondays. The cemetery is unique in the country. It was called “underground cemetery” because the burial site is actually under a chapel and was built for funeral mass during 1845.

The underground crypt was also used for secret meetings by Katipuneros during the revolution. This was the reason why the place was considered as a national historical landmark.

After the girls’ restroom break in a gas station in front of the cemetery, we drived to Liliw, laguna – The Tsinelas Capital of the Philippines. The girls were so excited to get here because they were so eager to shop for shoes and slippers.

While the girls were having fun buying shoes, I went to the church to have its picture taken. I learned that Liliw’s former name was spelled as “lilio” and the town was belonged to Nagcarlan until 1605. I read this from the marker in the church.

The church is named Parish Church of St. John The Baptist. It was made of red bricks and solid stone walls. The chruch’s belfry is beautiful. I’m not sure if the church is considered as baroque. There are statues of saints lined-up in front of the chruch. The altar was glimmery and houses several statues of saints inside.

One street in Liliw was full of shoe boutiques. There are a lot of people in this street shopping for shoes and slippers. There were big shoe replica outside of some stores.

One of our agenda more than shopping in Liliw is to eat in Arabela Camello’s Bakehaus & Coffee Shop. I had Walnut Salad (Php 200). Kathy had Tiramisu (Php 95). Julie, Silvia & Diane had Blueberry Cheesecake each (Php 95). The place was a small coffee shop in a small town but the food is great and yummy.

The sun was beginning to set so we decided to end our trip and drive Silvia back to San Pablo. We then decided to visit Sampaloc Lake since we will drop Silvia near the lake.

Samplaoc Lake is located near the city hall. There are fishpens and small huts in stilts in and around the lake. Small hills and mountains of Banahaw, Cristobal & Kalisungan are on its background. I learned that the lake was actually a crater lake just like the other lakes in San Pablo. This was our last stop.

We all headed home on our separate ways. Dropped Diane in Bay & Kathy in Los Banos.

The trip capped my long weekend. Although there were no plans made for the first two days of the long weekend, the last day made my little vacation worthwhile.

Thanks for the new friendship made – Kathy, Silvia & Diane. To the next leg!

Below was the summarized trip  itinerary:
1.       Ugu Bigyan Potter’s Garden, Tiaong, Quezon
2.       Patis Tito, San Pablo City, Laguna
3.       Underground Cemetery, Nagcarlan, Laguna
4.       Liliw, Laguna
5.       Sampaloc Lake, San Pablo City, Laguna

Red clay house of Ugu Bigyan Pottery Garden.

The girls with Augusto “Ugu” Bigyan. From L to R: Diane, Kathy, Ugu, Silvia & Julie

Pottery works of the artist himself, Ugu Bigyan. These are also for sale.

Patis Tito Garden Restaurant (formerly Kusina Salud) entrance.

Ground floor of Patis Tito Garden Restuarant.

Second floor of Patis Tito Garden Restaurant.

Our lunch.

Everyone had worked up a sweat (and an appetite) after all that primping in pre-war costumes at Villa Sariaya.  Lunch, we were told, was about eight miles away and would be served fine dining-style.

All shook up in Graceland

Elvis Presley, or at least his spirit, is alive in Graceland Estates and Country Club, a 22-hectare property thousands of miles away from Memphis. The owner/developer of this eco-tourism spot in Tayabas has been an avid Presley fan since his teens, and naming the property after his idol’s estate was his way of honoring the King of Rock and Roll. Graceland in Tayabas, however, has a character quite distinct from its Memphis counterpart.

The lagoon viewed from Memphis Cafe

A couple of hours were all the time allowed by the tour for this Tayabas stop, and that didn’t give much chance to explore everything the place has to offer. The Memphis Café and Grille provides an unobstructed view of the man-made lagoon where club members and guests can go boating, fishing and jet skiing. The trail surrounding the lagoon is ideal for jogging and biking, or simply strolling. Apart from this, we could only view the Spanish/Mediterranean-inspired apartelles and townhouse villas from a distance.

A path that leads to the meditation garden

A row of huts surrounded by lush vegetation. The huts serve as massage and steam rooms. A brook gushes nearby.

But we came here to dine, and we were just so ready to do that. Like a gastronomic strip tease, the food came one by one, each one building up expectations for the next delight.

Sinigang na hipon sa mura is shrimp soup with strips of young coconut (mura in Tagalog) served in coconut shell. Not too sour, but it did what it was supposed to do—perked up the taste buds

Crispy tilapia with tartar sauce gave just the right level of creaminess following the tangy flavor of the soup.

Crispy pork binagoongan. With green mango slices on the side, how can this go wrong?

Pork hardinera. The Quezon version of embutido or meat loaf is as tasty as it is colorful. And that means VERY.

Kulawo is ceviche or kilawin with a nice twist. It uses banana heart, coconut cream and vinegar, but each cook has his or her own way of producing that wonderful smoky flavor.

I was hoping they would serve pilipit, those doughnut-shaped squash crispies for dessert; instead, yema cake it was. As it turned out, my slight disappointment quickly melted away after taking bites of the cake with butter caramel swirls.

Overall, the food had all the right flavors to match the masterful plating. Elvis would have been pleased. It was rock and roll all the way.

Ugu Bigyan’s Pottery Shop

A quick stop at this famous pottery shop in Tiaong owned by Augusto Bigyan (nicknamed Ugu) was next. It was my second time to visit this ceramics haven, but I found the new pieces even more enchanting.

Please click here to read my earlier write-up about Ugu Bigyan’s studio. I wasn’t in a shopping mood this time, but I took note of some interesting pieces that are worth coming back for. Once a year, Ugu sells his creations at discounted prices usually in August, which is his birth month. The discount percentage is equal to his current age, and this generous artist is turning 50 this year.

From Tiaong, we made a final stop at Sulyap Gallery and Café in San Pablo City on the way back to Manila. This unique destination merits a blog post all to itself, which will be what Part 3 is all about.

My Holy Week is pretty much the only real holiday I get every year. I think holy week is every employee’s favorite time of the year, because it’s definitely mine. This year was extra special, too, since it was followed by a holiday on Monday. Heh. But the five-day holiday was still too short!

Anyway, just like every year, my family and I went on a Visita Iglesia around Laguna and Quezon. Sadly, we seem to decrease in number every year because some of my cousins migrated to Italy. I don’t know. It’s quite sad that we’re getting fewer and fewer every year! But no worries, it was still fun. Also, this year was our first time to do the Station of the Cross! I’m not sure why we didn’t do it before.

Our first stop was the church in Alaminos, Laguna which is also the nearest church from home. After that, we headed to San Pablo. Those are the only churches we visited in Laguna, because we didn’t pass by Liliw this time.

It was so hot! Hello, tan marks.

San Pablo Cathedral is under construction, and it really was a shame! I don’t understand why it’s taking them so long to reconstruct the church. I swear it’s under construction for a couple of years now. Anyway, I think it’s my first time to notice this statue near the restroom. I’m not even sure who she is. I’m not sure if it’s Mama Mary or some saint. All I know is that it has that kind of beauty that only forgotten and rusted statues have.

The church in Dolores, Quezon is the one church that will always be included in our itinerary. We’ve been going to this church since I was a kid! My earliest Maundy Thursday memories include Dolores and going to the stream in Banahaw Quezon (which I’ve heard has already dried up). When I think of Dolores, I’m reminded of kalamay, anting-anting, old bells, candles, and the faint smell of perfumed rosaries. Now that I think about it, this is one of the few constant things in my life.

After Dolores, we went straight to Tiaong, something new in our Maundy Thursday trip. This is also where we stopped to eat lunch! It was almost 2PM, I think, and I was already starving. While the mommies were preparing our packed lunch, the kids (me included hehe) bought fish balls and kikiam. Yum yum. We were supposed to eat scramble after lunch but Kuya Fishball didn’t wait for us. /sobs

Tita Pepis and Tito Ding decided to go home after lunch. There was an emergency at home that’s why they couldn’t finish the Visita Iglesia. We’re one van short! But the trip must continue.

We went to Candelaria next, and I fell in love with the church! It’s not as big as other cathedrals but it looked so open, and I have always loved open churches (e.g. St. Therese church in Elbi, the one in Wawa). The ceiling was quite low but there’s a second floor. We didn’t stay there that long. We only lighted some candles and went on our way again.

Our last stop was the church in Sariaya. It wasn’t supposed to be the last stop but there was something wrong with our car. It was the first time in a long while that we didn’t go to Lucban. But at least we got to go to other churches that we hadn’t been, too.

We stayed outside the Sariaya church while my father looked for someone who could fix our car. We ended up eating meringue! To my surprise, it was the first time Gianna, Gabby and Gian ate meringue. I don’t know why but it’s baffling how they’d never eaten meringue prior to that day. T

here’s this big tree outside the church and there’s a legend that if they ever cut it down, the whole Sariaya will sink or be flooded. I’m guessing that a tsunami might cause it since it’s near the sea. The tree’s really old and they already cemented the bottom part to support its weight.

My father came back and told that the car’s damage was too serious to fix that day. We decided to just go home but before that, we went back to Candelaria to attend the mass. We may not have finished our station of the cross but at least we got to attend the mass. We used to attend the one at Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban.

A lot of things got a bit awry, and I definitely hope that next year will be better. My holy week was spent on a lot of activities, and I think it was a bit better than last year. At least I wasn’t as confused as I was about my faith. Here’s to hoping that I figure out what I need to figure out. I’m really hoping for the best, you see, and there’s really no reason not to believe.

I’m sorry for that not-so-cryptic last sentence.

It was a 2-hour trip passing Alaminos and San Pablo City proper, upon seeing the Quezon Arch, their lies the huge coconut plantation and also a resort, Villa Escudero (Tiaong, Quezon).

We were welcomed by coconut trees, carabaos and cows in the field, then in the reception hall, by the warm greeting of the staff dressed in rural/native costumes and as well as a glass of sago’t gulaman.

Day tour rate is at 1,250/pax on a weekday.

We boarded our carabao-drawn cart (ours is named Mahinhin) to tour us around and bring us to Labasin Falls Restaurant for lunch (the resort’s main attraction).

We feasted on local dishes served in banana leaves as plates such as vegetable salad/ensalada, liempo, inihaw na isda, ginataang pakbet, pancit bihon, sabaw in a bao as a bowl, lechon manok, kaldereta, and banana cue for dessert (drinks for an extra fee).

With the man-made waterfalls as background, our dining table in the middle of a forest-like, refreshing spring water running over our feet while eating, we are definitely in for a treat.

We went back the area of the Reception Hall, now riding Carabao Ligaya with us are town folks serenading us with some olden love songs.

We passed by the main house of the Escudero’s and also a huge “Mary and the Secret Garden type” of garden minus the tall walls and then an old church which was made into a museum that contains the private collections of the Escudero’s from all their travels here and abroad. There were porcelain wares, costumes, religious artifacts,
preserved animals, world war relics, old peso bills and more.

There were other amenities and recreational activities to enjoy. But we didn’t use it since we had to head back to Manila.

If you want to feel rich Philippine culture and heritage, country/rural life setting, experience Villa Escudero and you’ll definitely have one.

Visit their website at: http://www.villaescudero.com/
or contact them at (632) 521-0830/523-0392/523-2944

Christmas Season(n): eat-all-you-can…. Everyday 

Ever since I was a child, no trip to San Pablo will be completed unless we visited Ugu’s place for lunch. Weird name, yes? Well it isn’t only the name of the place, but the name of the owner itself. Agusto “Ugu” Bigyan used to be an all-around city folk who decided to move away from the bustle of city life to the quiet, nonchalant province of Tiaong, Quezon. This ceramic artist is well-known for his various native-like sculptures and ceramics of dinnerware sets, jars, jewelry and even home fixtures.

Not only does he sell fine pottery, but he also serves an enjoyable Filipino Buffet with beautiful classical music playing in the background for P500.00 per head. A bit pricey for someone in the province? I say not. I may not be a big fan of Filipino Cuisine, but I certainly did enjoy this one!!

Every time I hear my relatives say “Kay Ugu na tayo!”, my stomach goes into a frenzy.

This Christmas was truly a different one. Instead of our usual beach trip to bora, we ventured to our native side and embraced my family’s tagalog roots.  We certainly enjoyed our holiday with the food and karaoke, nonetheless, the bonding. Happy Holidays again from my family to yours

My Family from my mother's side (Bundalian Side)

How to get to Tiaong Quezon:  From Manila, take the South Luzon Tollway all the way to the south end.  At the end of the tollway, after the toll plaza, take the exit that points to Lucena and simply drive along this national road until you reach the Sto. Tomas junction.  Sto. Tomas has two junctions, and one of which (the second) does not have any road sign when we passed by.  Anyway, on both juctions, take the road to the left (southeastward) toward Lucena.  This will take you through Alaminos then San Pablo Laguna.  At San Pablo junction, just follow the highway, veering to the right and bypassing the city.  Do not enter San Pablo proper.   Next town after San Pablo would be Tiaong.

From Tiaong: From the Tiaong market, continue further southwest along the national road.  After about 240m, the road will turn sharply to the left.  Continue down the road southeast.  About 480m from the turn you will see the Tiaong Municipio on your right.  Continue travelling for another 2.4km from the municipio until you see the Tiaong Rural Bank on the left side.  If you prefer looking at kilometer posts, this rural bank is a few meters after KM98.  Turn left at the small street just before the rural bank.  600m into the street, after crossing a rail road halfway, you will see a sign ‘Alvarez Village’.   Turn left, and barely 90m from the corner, you will see a distinctly different house constructed from bricks on the left side. This is Ugu’s workshop-residence.

Waypoint narrative by: ChachaVG 2002

One of the priceless and rarest food for you to find out is Kulawo or Banana Heart that sits right in Ugu Bigyan’s Restaurant at Lusacan, Tiaong, Quezon.

Contrary to its main ingredient, Banana Heart or puso ng saging, is for people who wanted to eat veggies that tastes like tuna. Truly, this main ingredient is such a surprise for health-conscious individuals.

Charcoal grilled with spices, vinegar and coconut milk, Kulawo is just perfect for a mouthwatering experience you wanted to have in an environment like Ugu Bigyan’s: relaxing, and artistic. The natural charcoal-cooked-food brings out the original smoky taste and the mixture of spices will surely make your stay worthwhile.

Surprisingly, it’s not just the original flavor and recipe that will surely make you interested in Kulawo. Let me discuss you how healthy this recipe is:

Banana heart or banana flower contains Vitamin E and is an antioxidant that will help you maintain a beautiful, glowing skin. The methanol extracts from banana heart will make your metabolism stabilized, thus, results to a healthy body and an ingredient to reduce excessive bleeding during menstruation for females.

Meanwhile, coconut milk is also an anti-bacterial agent and helps boost immune system and is known to relieve symptoms of ulcers and sore throats. As for beauty, it moisturizes skin. No wonder it’s also included on most hand and body lotions.

So why be guilty of eating delicious food, when in Quezon, you will find this wonderfully cooked healthy food that will make you feel good. #

Web sources:

ehow.com

livestrong.com

foodbuzz.com

anton.blogs.com

Ugu Bigyan

Lusacan, Tiaong, Quezon

Telefax: +63 42 545-9144

Manila #: +632 250-8416

Kowts are the source of inspiration of many people, they get inspired to it and sometimes they also live within it. Sometimes in our lives we created our own quotes or kowts that we based on what we feel, what we experienced, and what are the things we do.

Here in the Philippines, many Facebook users always post quotes or kowts on their wall as their status. Sometimes when they can’t tell what they feel for someone they used kowts to express their feelings.

Here are some of my favorite Tagalog Kowts and Quotes:

“Buti pa ang CHOLESTEROL , may lugar diyan sa PUSO mo…”

“I found out may DIABETES pala ako…
Kaya pala ilang taon na yung sugat ko hindi parin gumagaling…
SUGAT SA PUSO… “

“Your vocation in life is where your greatest joy meets the world’s greatest need.”

“Choosing not to believe in the devil won’t protect you from him.”

“Life is so short to waste time for someone who’s unworthy for your love..
Its so sad when the right person will not be able to search for you coz
your too busy all your life makin’ the wrong person right for you..”

“Be grateful that you dont have everything you want. that means, you have the opportunity to be happier tomorrow than you are today…”

“Why waste your time on sleep when you can have enough when you die? liveyour dreams. make them real. do it while you re awake. not when you are sleeping…”

“Sometimes
you just have to put a period
on something that has to end
not settle on a comma!
why?
‘cuz time will came
and you will realize that it is
nices to see a complete sentence
rather that seeing a phrase
that doesn’t have any sense!”

“people fall inlove
not knowing why or how!
its b’cuz
LOVE is the most special felling
that doesn’t require much answer..
you just love no matter
how STUPID you become!”

“Maswerte ka kung may taong nagseselos para sa’yo,

dahil…

.
.
.
.
doon mo mararamdaman at malalaman na,
importante ka sa kanya at ayaw niyang mapunta ka sa iba. “

“What EXPECTED can’t HURT, what HURT wasn’t EXPECTED…”

“Closeness doesnt come when youre together

it comes when youre apart and realize that..

despite not seeing–

you never stop remembering.”

“The sign of being a mature person is not how well you prepare for everything to be right.
But on how you stand up and move on after everything goes wrong.”

“It’s funny how someone can break your heart in a million pieces.. and still you love them with all the little pieces left ..”

These are just few kowts that  love most, just a few words but its meaning can change lives.

Every people have their own kowts that motivate them and we must just get inspired and live our lives to its fullest.

It’s just accidentally I read what happened to Given Grace Cebanico, after I read the news I search her in Facebook and I read her wall post, after her death and before her death. I don’t know why I’m so affected to what happened, did I saw Given Grace from the past or were really know each other? I’m thinking it really hurts me a lot when I seeing the bad news about her. I’m really confuse if I saw her during UPCAT, or whatsoever. I’m always thinking if there’s really connection between both of us? Only heaven knows…

JUSTICE! I’m sure this will happened in the near future. She deserves justice and luxury in heaven. I saw the news and the suspect are getting caught, God also knows he deserves this justice and Given Grace also helps in making this happened. I hope in real life there are also 100 days to heaven and 49 days (pure love), she deserve to live again for her to do her unfinished business, I hope this TV shows really exist for Given Grace.

Intelligent, Jolly, Family loving that’s how she described by the people knows her. I read her last post “AYOKO NA” with a smile at the end. You will see there how jolly she is. She keep of reclaiming but in the end she’s happy. That’s also what I’m praying for her, after what happened to her she must be happy because Given Grace will be on the side of God. Given Grace has a life that anyone will remember for his goodness and touching of lives. Her body died but her soul remains.

Have a great life after death and I hope we will be friends when it’s already my time. Given Grace Cebanico, the JUSTICE is in reach, you may now REST with PEACE…

OLMCS or when you hear the word seminary the first thing you will will think are seminarians are KIND, BEHAVE, INTELLIGENT, GOD FEARING, ETC. all the positive you can think. BUT the real thing? Just continue reading and by my review you will see whats happening on the other side of the tall fence of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Seminary

Lets rate it from 1 out of 10, the facilities, the priest, the personnel, the academic life, the social life, ETC (this is based on my experienced from 2002-2006)

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Seminary FACILITIES:

OLMCS building: 7/10
The building of OLMCS is almost more than 60 years so expect you will have a horror house like facilities. The windows that made up from wood that has shells on it, the design is very nice, the atmosphere is little bit a horror and I’m sure every night will be a long night.

OLMCS locker room: 5/10
On the other hand there are new renovate buildings that have a modern design, the lockers in the dorm have a few space so if you’re body is a chubby one expect lack of space.

OLMCS sports facilities: 8/10
OLMCS have courts for sports, 3 basketball courts and 1 volleyball court that can also convert in a tennis court. There have a covered court that really useful for official basketball and volleyball games, for concerts, special events, ETC.

OLMCS CR and Bathrooms: 2/10
About the comfort rooms, the guest comfort rooms really nice but the bath rooms and comfort rooms on the dorms really sucks. Many of the bowls have problems, the doors are not functional, and the worst most of the time there’s no water.

OLMCS studying facilities: 8/10
The study rooms and the classrooms are very conducive for studying, with open windows you will have a fresh air and you will have a view of trees outside which is very relaxing. The classroom has armchairs and in the study room you will have your own tables. Also they have a computer room as well as a science lab. Complete facilities regarding studying.

OLMCS dorm: 6/10
Regarding sleeping, the OLMCS has a dorm that has a capacity of 20-40 beds. It like a big room with big windows, but it has only ceiling fans.

OLMCS PRIEST: 9/10

There is no cooler than the priest I met inside the seminary. They really change my thoughts about them. They are natural jokers, athletes, professors, friends, advisers, as in they are all in one. They can change they role on whats requires in that particular situation. All I can say they are great. There are just few priest that MAYBE they just tripping us when the higher priest is not around.

OLMCS PERSONEL: 9/10

I have no bad words will say regarding the personnel. They do their jobs really well, they also friendly and easy to approach. I don’t get surprised if many of the seminarians has a good friend relationship to them. Two thumbs up for them.

OLMCS FOOD: 4/10

OLMCS is not a restaurant or have any private professional chef so don’t expect great foods. Because you have no choice you will just eat it even whats the taste of it.

OLMCS FORMATION: 10/10

Seminary is really good in forming a boy to become a man. The priest really knows how a person change their point of view in lives. The spiritual life really comes in life with their teachings and good advice. To be honest there are just few seminarians enter the seminary to become a priest many of them force by their parents in order to change whats bad on them, which is very good for them. Some of them changed for good and some of them become worst and kick out in the seminary. Forming a persons lives is their forte, I’m living proof to that.

OLMCS in SPORTS: 9/10

OLMCS is a normal school that compete with other schools. They participate always in the municipal meet with the sports that seminary practices everyday like Basketball, Volleyball, Chess, Table Tennis, Badminton, and Tennis. So if you are very good in sports you will have a chance to compete to others while in the seminary. Also the OLMCS participate in Sangkan, it’s a sporting event that participated by all seminaries in Luzon. This is one of the always anticipated event of the seminarians. They compete in almost all the sports group and individuals.

OLMCS in ACADEMICS: 8/10

OLMCS has a great curriculum. The problem is some teachers are fresh graduates which is not that familiar in teachings. Some do well and some you fell that they are not ready to teach yet. But when the priest and veteran teachers teach you will get amaze in their knowledge and passion on what they are doing. Also they allow some great students to participate on Quiz bee and that’s good. When graduated there, you will see that all of your hard work on studying pays off.

OLMCS in SOCIAL LIFE: 9/10

Social life in OLMCS will never be a factor inside. You will always have a person to talk to or share to. Also the priest will always there to listen on what you fell and when you need pieces of advice. There are also times you will encounter other people outside.

OLMCS in LOVE LIFE: 1/9

There are few seminarians has their own GF outside and sometimes they visit there. But inside obviously you will not found GF but if you’re experiencing BI gender I’m sure you will find love there.

In this I hope you will have an idea what Seminary is. It’s not perfect like others thought but living and studying inside the seminary is really you can treasure forever in your life. It can’t scale in numbers what it can give you, the experience, the mind set, the attitude, the love, and they really explains who is GOD.

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Seminary is a great place to start your dreams.

If the heart is really literally can be broken, my heart can be totally damaged and I’m sure it will looks like Frankenstein, it will beat but there’s no life anymore. If people read this they will thought that I’m stupid, idiot, maybe all the negative words can be throw to me. So if you will understand me? you’re really knows how to love.

Sometimes I told myself, why I’m doing this? and one morning I saw the answer:

It’s not really my personality to chase a girl, give all what I have, in other words to be a martyr of love. I’m not really that kind of person. It’s just the one I love is a person that deserves to chase, to give everything in this world, and I’m willing to be a saint of love just for her.

If you’re in love, there’s no matter how intelligent are you. You will be stupid like me. If someone will ask me if I will do this again? My answer will be “I never know until I get there” you can’t plan if you’re under in the spell of Love.

I really don’t know if I done the right things, that’s the effect of LOVE…

As I making this blog of mine, I’m little bit worry about how long I can do this, I just told myself until I can,I do it.

Sorry if my English is not that great but I will make sure people will understand my thoughts. I don’t want to have any barriers that comes my way. I’ll do whatever it takes to share, to learn, and to love.

Badian, Cebu. This is where we witnessed the beautiful Kawasan Falls (see this entry) and enjoyed the wonderful trek to the falls. And most especially the waterfall massage. Hubbee is a good swimmer so he enjoyed jumping and diving to the cold water. We were accompanied by our good friend Wee Dimalanta on this trip. This was also memorable for hubbee because he was struggling with his tooth ache, which brought us to the Town Health center to have his tooth extracted for P100.00. Haha!

Baguio, Benguet. This is where we celebrated our 1st year anniversary (see this entry). This is where we bought our anniversary ring. It was hubbee’s first time in Baguio too that’s why it’s another unforgettable adventure for him. With no itinerary, we just spent our vacation there by non stop walking and strolling and seeing the tourists spots. But the most relaxing part of that journey was the Coffee Time at Starbucks Camp John Hay, and the scary search of our way out from the camp during the night. It was memorable!!!

Bantayan Island, Cebu. Our memorable commute and journey to the northern part of Cebu. I think we took all types of transportation. We took a taxi, bus, ferry, multi cab and motorcycle to get there. That was an adventure! But the beach in Bantayan Island was just spectacular. And the privacy and intimacy of the island was really captivating. The owner of the resort helped us to experience the beauty of this island, and the restaurant staff who enjoyed my voice when I tried singing on their videoke machine. Haha!

Bolinao, Pangasinan. One of the best road trips we had last year. We were joined by our friends Chi Santos and Joy Tingson on this adventure in the province of Pangasinan. What’s memorable on this journey? It was the search for food while we were on the road as we were really hungry already and we can’t find a food to feed our hungry stomach (see this entry). That was classic. And of course, the wonderful Puerto Del Sol Resort and the White Beach of Bolinao. What’s memorable for hubbee too was the Mall Tour that Chi did for him on our way home. Haha!

Boracay, Aklan. We’ve been to this island twice already. The first trip was with our good friends Hazel Pobrero, Drey Lallo and Aldrin Isidro. It was a blast. We did so many activities and maximized the days we were there. The second trip was with my sister (see this entry), and where I celebrated my 30th birthday (see this entry). Friends flew in (Laarni Zamora, Ella Salvador and Al) to have a quick vacation and celebrate my birthday with me as well. We had a blast at Epic bar that night of celebration, and a sumptuous seafood meal at dampa.

Cagayan De Oro, Misamis Oriental. This is where hubbee grew up. Though born in Cebu, this became his second home where he spent most of his life. When I finally went to Cagayan De Oro, our relationship became official. But it did not even become our first agenda. We immediately started our adventure the day I arrived (see this entry). We only became official on my second night in Cagayan De Oro. And this was happening while the thunder storm Ondoy was hitting Manila big time! The only good thing that the storm brought was our relationship was born.

Carmen, Bohol. This is where we visited the famous Chocolate Hills and the big phyton. This is where we discovered the fake chocolate hills background used for photo effects that has deceived me for years. Haha! But seriously, the view of the hills are just beautiful. Very unique. Only found in the Philippines. This tour was joined by our girl friends Michelle Paras, Monica Guce, Grace Consolacion, Bianca Barreto and Sara. It was hubbee’s first time to meet them and he enjoyed their company.

Cebu City, Cebu. We’ve been to Cebu City twice as well. On our first trip, we just checked out Ayala Mall, church visit at Basilica de Sto. Nino, and had buffet dinner at The Port in Waterfront Hotel since we don’t have much time. But on our second trip, we did the Sky Experience Adventure, visited the Taoist Temple, The Capitol and The Strip. Hubbee was more of looking forward to experience the Edge Coaster and finally, he has experienced it (see this entry). And of course, it won’t be complete without a buffet again at The Port.

Coron, Busuanga. Our Palawan adventure together with Drey Lallo and her son Asejia Lallo. This was dubbed as our “welcome summer” get away. And we were just in awe when we experienced the beautiful wonders of Coron. The highlight was our trip to Kayangan Lake. It’s just a beautiful lake and dubbed as the cleanest lake in the Philippines. I enjoyed swimming there as it was really clear and clean. Hubbee and I really want to go back again in Coron sometime next year if time permits.

Dahilayan, Bukidnon. This was the official first adventure of macbee (see this entry). Hubbee brought me to this beautiful adventure park in Bukidnon and forced me to try out the zipline. I swear, it almost killed me but the experience was worth it. It was a pure fear factor for me, while he was enjoying all these thrills. But this became a test of a good future for us as we really enjoyed doing stuff like taking pictures and doing adventure rides. I fell in love with him at this point because I know it’s a good sign for a good start for us.

Intramuros, Manila. This is where we had our first couple shirt. And I think it was the first and the last. Haha. This was our first activity on the first day of the year 2010. Hubbee and I met our friends (Jze Guion, Francis Chua, Monica Guce, Michelle Paras, and Grace Consolacion). We had a photo walk and a food trip in Binondo, Manila. I think we have explored well the streets of Intramuros with tons of pictures as our proof. Haha! But the best part of me and hubbee, the delicious chinese delicacy we had for snack.

Laoag, Ilocos Norte. Highlight of this trip was our empanada food trip in Laoag and our movie watching of My Amnesia Girl in Robinsons Mall. Since we had a late flight, we only stayed in Laoag for one night. Then returned to do quick trip to several landmarks and museum. And since we still have a lot of time to kill before our return flight, we decided to watch a movie. And of course, eat to hubbee’s all time favorite fast food restaurant, KFC! We also liked our visit to the museum as it showed the rich culture of the Ilocos Region.

Lemery, Batangas. It was another unplanned road trip we’ve decided to do one saturday and we we’re accompanied by our good friends Hazel Pobrero and Aldrin Isidro, together with their son Uno. It’s not the beach that made this trip unforgettable. It was when Khenzo, my car, stopped in the middle of the road due to over heating. My first over heat experience and had no idea what to do. Haha! Good thing we stopped in front of a local store. It was unforgettable for me, who’s not well-trained with cars and what it can happen some times.

Loboc, Bohol. Aside from the nice experience in Carmen, Bohol, Loboc also gave us wonderful experience by having a close encounter with hubbee’s family members, the tarsiers. Haha! Just kidding. The cute little animals are just charming to watch, so small you can’t resist their cuteness. The Loboc Church was also nice, most especially inside as they have preserved the old beauty of the church. And of course, the highlight, the Loboc River Cruise. Good lunch buffet and good Loboc Kids Choir serenading the tourists.

Los Banos, Laguna. It was my team’s teambuilding held in Splash Mountain in Los Banos, Laguna. It’s a big group so it was a nice bonding time for my team but the additional points for me was, hubbee and my mom was there too. Also, one of my agents who’s from Los Banos (Yron Retuta) invited us to check out the Christmas decorations in U.P. Los Banos. So we went there and saw the giant christmas tree and the beautiful belen. Finally, hubbee saw the big and huge university in Laguna.

Mactan, Cebu. We really wanted to visit Mactan because we want to see the Lapu Lapu shrine. So when we had an opportunity, we booked a nice hotel (see this entry) and visited the famous landmark in Cebu, the shrine of Lapu Lapu. But the best part was the Be Resort. Such a beautiful boutique resort in Mactan where most of the luxurious resorts in Cebu are located. And special mention was our commute journey in finding this resort. But it was all worth of the adventure.

Moalboal, Cebu. It was time for us to check out the southern part of Cebu. On our last trip to Cebu this year, we visited Moalboal known for its diving spots. But our best spotted place was our resort, the Club Serena Resort. We enjoyed our accommodation, our food, and our total stay in that place (see this entry). We did not enjoy the beach that much but the time spent with hubbee in this place was of course the highlight of it. We always do things together and this is just one of the best times of our lives as a couple.

Nagcarlan, Laguna. This is another road trip adventure for macbee. But this time, it was my family who joined us together with a few relatives. In short, this was a family excursion. But it was our first time in Nagcarlan, Laguna, and going to Villa Martha was just another part of the adventure (see this entry). It was a series of discussion for me and hubbee on which resort we’ll go to since we checked out different resorts along the way but we ended at Villa Martha and it was all worth it.

Nasugbu, Batangas. We had several road trips together, usually when we don’t have anything planned for the weekend. And one time, we decided to check out this famous church in Nasugbu, Batangas. Calaruega Church just blew us away by its beauty and wonder (see this entry). That’s why on our second visit to Calaruega Church, we brought along my mom and my sister so they can experience the beauty that this place holds. And no wonder, the place did not fail us. I hope hubbee and I can just get married to this place. Just a wishful thinking. Haha!

Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. Our farthest northern adventure so far. We continuously seek best beaches in the Philippines and this was one of our agenda last year. And we were so happy to finally visit the famous Blue Lagoon and Saud Beach (see this entry) in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. But aside from the beaches, we also had a chance to visit the Patapat Viaduct and the Bangui Windmills. But the best part for us was the delicious food served in Kapuluan Vista Resort. Their Bagnet was just breath taking. Haha!

Panglao Island, Bohol. This island was not only known for the local filipinos but has been recognized by our tourists as one beautiful place. And when we finally had a chance to see its beauty, it was just simply amazing. We liked the beach, most especially during the morning when it was low tide. We had a great time there, took so many pictures and stayed at Lost Horizon Resort (see this entry). The resort is a perfect place for couples during the night as it serenades you with their fresh atmosphere with music background while having dinner.

Roxas Boulevard, Manila. Our first Valentine’s Day as a couple was spent at Manila Ocean Park (see this entry). Although it was not my first time there, I went back and brought hubbee to experience the giant aquarium housing aquatic life and mostly visited by kids and students from different schools. The best part of that trip was the fish spa where a lot of doctor fish cleaning all the dirt in your feet. It was very ticklish but once you get the hang of it, it will then become a relaxing experience.

San Pablo, Laguna. My aunt who took care of me when I was still a baby is from San Pablo, Laguna, and their house is just in front of Sampaloc Lake. That area is famous for the locals as they do their morning jogging there. So when we arrived, hubbee and I were so overwhelmed by many cute guys running around. Haha! Just kidding. That was not the highlight. So my cousins toured us around, we went to the park, had street food and took some pictures while killing time. We had this trip to San Pablo with my mom, sister and cousin.

Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Few places we’ve been to in Sta. Rosa, Laguna are Enchanted Kingdom, Paseo De Sta. Rosa and Nuvali. The visit to Enchanted Kingdom was with my friends and family. Hubbee’s first to the theme park. Visit to Paseo De Sta. Rosa and Nuvali are usually with family. Our favorite place is the koi area in Nuvali. We always buy food to feed the kois who are just so cute to watch while they fight for their lives in having pieces of fish food. Haha. Hubbee and I always enjoy going to this place.

Tagaytay, Cavite. Because of its close proximity, I can’t count how many times hubbee and I went to Tagaytay to either just hang out at Starbucks, dine in to many restaurants found there, or have picnik at Picnic Grove. Several friends have joined as well on our Tagaytay road trips and the place has always made it special for us. We never miss to stop by at the market to buy meat and fresh vegetables. But the most memorable amongst all our Tagaytay trips was when Khenzo stopped again, but this time, not because of over heating but due to clutch problem. Very memorable!

Tiaong, Quezon. We decided one weekend to visit another famous place found in the border of San Pablo, Laguna and Tiaong, Quezon. We checked out Villa Escudero and experienced the carabao ride going to the resort while being serenaded by their employees, the raft ride, the large collection of the Escuderos on their museum, the lunch at the falls while your feet is stepped on a running water, their sumptuous buffet lunch, and their cultural show during the afternoon.

Tunasan, Muntinlupa. Whenever we visit my mom in Laguna, SM Muntinlupa is our favorite hang out place because this is just close to our house. And a few monthary celebrations were held there, normally having dinner with my family. This is where we have our grocery sometimes, even our hair cut at Fix, or little shopping when there’s an extra money on our pocket. But the best monthsary celebration held there was on our Chapter IV. It was just a happy day for me and hubbee.

Vigan, Ilocos Sur. It was a quick day trip for me and hubbee to Ilocos Sur because we want to see the famous Calle Crisologo. That visit became more memorable when Dingdong Dantes entered the store where hubbee and I were in. It was a star struck moment for hubbee (as always). Haha. We also visited the Baluarte where we had close encounter with the animals of Governor Chavit Singson (see this entry). Our first time to see a camel as well. We also visited the Hidden Garden and where we had our first taste of bagnet. Yummy!

To summarize macbee’s travel adventures for 2 years, we rode in a plane 6 times together, saw 6 airports in the Philippines, visited 12 churches and 10 beaches, experienced 4 thrilling adventure rides, did snorkeling 2 times, and been to 28 towns, 14 provinces, and 8 regions. If only our Northern Adventure was not canceled, we have additional places to add on to our list. On this new year that we have, we are excited to experience more places. Different places we’ve never been to.

Current line up are Oriental Mindoro, Cagayan De Oro, Bukidnon, Camiguin, Malaysia, Singapore and South Korea. As they say, traveling is the best form to strengthen your relationship, to get away from the normal routine in your relationship, and get to know more of your partner. I am just blessed to have a partner who shares the same interest in traveling and photography.

On our 2nd year anniversary hubbee, I just want to let you know how much I love you and thank you for the great adventures we had and we will have soon. Thank you for being the best in all forms. For being the best travel buddy, my best friend on the road, my love of my life. I simply cannot ask for more. You are God’s gift to me. And I hope to share another wonderful year with you!

I love you so much hubbee and happy anniversary!!!

How to go to Villa Escudero? Take the South Luzon Expressway and exit at 50A (Lucena, Legaspi, Batangas exit). Then turn left at the Sto. Tomas junction and head straight down by-passing the town of Alaminos and San Pablo City proper. Slow down upon seeing Quezon arch and turn left immediately after. You’ll be welcomed with a warm greeting and a cool tropical drink (buko juice) at the Reception Hall.

Entrance is P1,250.00/person from Mondays-Thursdays and P1,400.00 from Fridays-Sundays and during Holidays. Fee includes a carabao ride accompanied by musicians and singers serenading with Filipino folk songs on the way to the resort proper, buffet lunch at the Labasin Waterfalls, and a Cultural Show that performs at 2:00 – 3:15 pm only on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays. They accept cash and major credit cards.

There’s a resort inside which is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, same goes for the museum. They also offer a range of overnight accommodations. There are large riverside cottages and apartment style units, each individually designed using indigenous materials like bamboo, anahaw leaves and coconut lumber. The units are suited to the environment and are quite cool and well-ventilated. Air-conditioned units are also available. Prices ranges price from P2,200.00-P7,325.00.

Villa Escudero also has a museum inside as mentioned previously. The AERA Memorial Museum, founded by spouses Arsenio and Rosario Escudero, houses one of the largest collections in the country, unmatched in its eclectic diversity. Housed in a replica of a long-gone church in Intramuros with painted trompe-l’oeil ceilings, the present building opened for viewing in 1987. The core of the collection is its trove of colonial religious art.

The superbly executed silver altars, gilded carrozas, ivory santos, embroidered vestments and intricately carved images and bas-reliefs and tableaux, most dating from the Spanish colonial era are a testimony to the artistry and piety of the Filipino. Reflecting a lifetime of dedicated collecting and the wide-ranging interest of the Escudero couple, there are also extensive collections of Oriental ceramics, natural history and ethnographic dioramas, costumes, household furniture, weaponry and many other items of interest collected in their travels around the world.

Museum has a separate minimum fee and camera is not allowed inside. You will need to deposit it upon paying at the gate.

Lunch is served on bamboo dining tables set in a few inches of crystalline running water from the falls. The experience of dining on delicious local dishes with the sparkling waterfalls as a backdrop with clear spring water running over your feet is a truly singular and memorable experience only Villa Escudero can offer. Just be careful on walking towards your table as it can be slippery when not carefully done.

After our lunch, we tried the bamboo rafting despite the strong presence of the sun. Just make sure to bring your sunblock before hitting this cool activity in Villa Escudero. The guide will provide a life jacket for safety. Then you can choose your own raft and paddle and start enjoying it. We did it for an hour as the scorching sun was really getting in to our skin but we had fun!

Exactly at 2:00 pm, all guests went to watch the Philippine Experience Show where the country’s rich culture comes to life, from its ethnic diversity to its colonial legacy. The dances were painstakingly recreated by the late National Artist for Dance Ramon Obusan of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. One cool thing about this show is that, it is performed by resort employees and accompanied by the resort’s own musicians and rondalla ensemble.

We left at 5:00 pm and headed back to Alabang. The tour was worth it. One way to spend your weekend. The place is recommended for family tours because of the ambiance and what the place is offering for their guests.

- Villa Escudero was visited last May 2010.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

This wagtail was walking against the current of a mini-dam’s spillway in Quezon province in March 2006.  The bird’s almost non-stop motion presented a difficult shooting challenge – I needed a shutter speed fast enough to freeze the subject’s movement, but at the same time should be slow enough to blur the current and come out with a more dynamic-looking environment.

I settled for 1/100 sec and timed the shutter press when the bird momentarily paused every few steps. I got one shot sharp after many tries, and I’m glad there was strong eye contact plus a catchlight.

With its throat turning blackish, this individual was molting into breeding plumage. When breeding, a large area of the throat becomes black. The same throat area is white during non-breeding season.

Some Grey Wagtail footage.

on january 25, 2005 was born..”SBT”

Trichantera is also delicious to and good for chicken and ducks. Ricky Malolos of St Tomas, Batangas, raises native chicken and ducks but could only feed Trichantera to his free-range chicken due to limited area for growing the plant. He feeds chicken, with 50 per cent Trichantera and 50 per cent commercial feed, which costs him an average of sixty centavos per head per day. Selling his chicken at five to six months old for PHP250 each, he gets an average net return of PHP100 per head. He just sold 500 head for PHP125,000 in June, which gave him an income of PHP50,000.

These results and observations prompted BAI Director Efren C. Nuestro to direct Dr Rene C. Santiago (Center Chief, NSPRDC) to go into massive propagation of the plant.

“Planting materials of Trichantera should be made readily available to enable farmers to benefit from the results of our research,” Mr Nuestro said, following his recent visit to the Center and Ricky’s farm. “This is consistent with the new Department of Agriculture’s programme on organic farming,” he added.

Information from PoultrySite

taga-Paiisa at Talisay. My wife’s had just succesfully finished

her summer tutorial in our in-laws home in Paiisa.

More than 20 children’s participated in almost a month

of fun learning.

With the help of  teacher Anne and all the parents we are

looking forward for more learning and fun in the future.

By the way, My wife’s profile:

Jennifer Pulido-Castillo

Graduated in PSBA Sampaloc Manila

Bachelor of Science in Accountancy

Current career: Mother of two kids / Pursuing tutorial

might there’s someone wan’t to talk about our hometown..TIAONG.(sorry..TAO LANG)