Roadtrips!

Last Minute Shopping in Siem Reap

2012-01-30T09:15:00.010+08:00

(Photo credit:http://www.tourismindochina.com/cambodia/tours/Taste-of-the-City-of-Angkor_451.html)

After the visit at Artisan, I walked the rest of the way to the Old Market which -- according to the guidebooks I read -- is where the souvenirs will be a lot cheaper.

One of my must-buy's was a souvenir t-shirt and I spent a great deal browsing the shops. I bought Tatay, Janin and Bolet one each. What I was really looking forward to buying though were the silver bangles. I wanted one for my own and my friends have specifically pointed out to me they wanted to get one as well. They turned out to be a bit pricey so I almost ended up not buying anything for me. Then, in this one store there it was, the lone slim bangle that has the Angkor Wat design. That was totally distinct. It stood out from the rest. The common designs had elephants on it or those of Apsara Dancers. Not that these two are not special in themselves. It's just that that was the only bangle then that had the Angkor Wat etched on it. And so I bought it even though it cost me ten dollars. Imagine that.

I splurge on one other item though. It was a jade pendant in silver. I thought of Mama and I know how it would go with the chain I bought her once as a Christmas gift. I thought then that the silver goes well with the jewelry case I bought earlier at the Artisan. There were a lot of items that took my fancy like some jewelry and some stuff for the house like silk throw pillow cases and table runners and stuff but I stayed away from them. I could only look and run my fingers longingly at them. I had to do some balancing stuff, because there's still Bangkok to visit and I wouldn't want to limit my choices there either just because I wasn't wise about handling the limited budget I had for that entire trip.

After a while I got hungry. That morning, I was resolute about trying out some of the restaurants outside of my hotel. After all, that was going to be my last night in Siem Reap. I saw some prospects while I was on my way to the Old Market and so I decided to retrace my steps. I was intent on the task that I did not notice that a woman, carrying a baby, was approaching me until she was brushing right at my arm.

She was a bit filthy and disheveled and so was the baby she was holding in her arms. She caught me in surprise and my immediate reaction was to withdraw from her. I told her I have no money to give her and immediately crossed the street. After some time though I got a bit guilty and regretted not giving her some spare change. The mother in me immediately thought she might be hard-pressed about providing needs for her baby and thus the begging. With these thoughts running in my head, I crossed the street and asked the vendor there where the lady had gone. The vendor informed me that she's a regular around there and that I should not just mind her. I still felt guilty though but accepted as well that the chance to help had passed me by. I let everything go with that.

Crossing the street, I stumbled upon a pleasant surprise: right in front of me is a vegetarian cafe. Imagine that. My last day in Siem Reap and that was the only time I came across a vegetarian cafe. I resisted the urge to jump like a kid in front of the cafe. Very eagerly I made my way inside. I could imagine I must have this really pleasant smile on my face the whole time I was in the cafe. I felt pretty much like how Alibaba must have felt stumbling upon the cave full of treasure.

What a feast followed. As what had become a habit the past days I was in Siem Reap, I ordered a banana smoothie. It was a bit of a disappointment as the bananas used were not quite ripe yet. The specialty for the day was pasta marinara and so I ordered that. Unlike the smoothie, it did not disappoint. I felt my entire being tingle (not exactly and exaggeration hehe) as I took the first bite. The sauce made from fresh tomatoes with just the right hint of basil in it was heavenly. The spices and the taste of cheese was perfect as well. I savored every bite and made conversation with the owner of the cafe. I casually asked what nationality numbered the most visits to his cafe. When he told me "Philippine," I was really surprised. Well, I am one and most my family members and friends are meat eaters. While I have quite a number of vegetarian friends, the meat-eaters easily outnumbered them. Still, it was nice to know that there are more and more of us who are vegetarians.

As I made my way back to my hotel, I recalled and savored the fortuitous events that made the entire trip really pleasant. Stumbling upon the vegetarian cafe while I was intent about celebrating my last night in Siem Reap was one of them. I was so grateful for everything that I felt as if my heart was about to burst with it. Grateful much, indeed.

"Craftistic" Afternoon in Siem Reap

2012-01-13T18:10:00.016+08:00

I went back to the hotel after I visited Bayon that morning. I felt tired having had difficulty sleeping the night before and then had to wake up real early for the sunrise watching over at Angkor.

I only had the "buttered" baguette for breakfast. I was looking forward to eating a heavier meal. When I arrived at my hotel room, I looked at the 2 pieces of fried vegetable spring rolls left over from my dinner last night. They still looked good to me and still crisp. With sleep weighing down on me, I made do with the spring rolls, gulped some water and took a nap.

When I woke up, I asked myself if I was up to going to the artisan place I read in one of the guidebooks. As I was due for some "pasalubong" (souvenirs/ token for loved ones back home) shopping anyway, I decided it wouldn't hurt if I'd take a peek.

I was glad I made the decision because Artisans D' Angkor is definitely a must-see. The hotel I stayed in while in Siem Reap was located near the "Old Market" as they call it. The artisan shop is just a block away from me. Once there, I remembered the reason for my hesitation in visiting the place. There were several tourists there but all of them are always part of some tour group or another. Being on my own kind of made me feel a bit out of place. It was the first time I'd gone solo and overseas at that, so I wasn't that confident yet.

A guide (they have assigned guides in the place) immediately approached me and offered to show me around. It helped ease my uneasiness about being there on my own. The guide was funny. He thought I was Thai. Imagine that. Me and my saucer-like eyes, a Thai :) He laughed when I told him I am Filipino. He then told me I could pass off as Cambodian. He then took me to the various shops. There were different shops for different crafts: carving, silver plating, painting.

Each time we enter one, he would ask the Cambodian trainees there to guess what my nationality is. I felt like rolling my eyes each time he did that. In the five or so shops we visited, there were two who guessed right that I am Filipino. Others thought I'm either Thai or Cambodian. One mentioned I'm Indian.

The work they showed were very impressive. Apparently, Khmer skills extend far beyond temple architecture. I was informed that most of the workers there are trainees.

After the workshops, the last stop was the souvenir shop. There, I spent the longest time browsing, simply because there were a handful I wanted to buy but did not have enough money to buy all of them. The funny thing was there was also this Caucasian guy with me who spent a long time picking the right silver piece. I hardly think though that his indecision was brought about by the lack of cash but more likely he was eyeing the details of the craftsmanship.

In the end, I settled with a small circle-shaped silver jewelry box that had an elephant engraving on its top cover. I wanted it for myself but I knew that giving it as pasalubong to Mama would give me the greater satisfaction. There were those in elephant shape but I knew we would have a hard time prying it from Rod once he took a liking to it thus the simpler design.

I also took a fancy to some of the silk crafts found at the boutique

shop -- bags, shawls, full dresses. I'm always fond of shawls and would have wanted to buy one. I had cash with me but I knew I had to be wary about spending them as there was still a hotel to book in Bangkok and the tours to spend money on.

What had me look longingly at, for a long time though, were the Buddah bust sculptures. I always wanted to have one at home. But it was priced at least $ 100 US each and they're heavy too. I lingered quite a bit at the shelves displaying these. I repeatedly picked up one and turned it over to look at the price. It's as if by doing so, they would decrease in value each time :P

Sunrise at Angkor, The Grand Tour, Saying Goodbye at Bayon (Day 3)

2009-12-16T10:59:00.017+08:00

I’m not sure if it was because it was my last day of touring the temples at that time or it was my changing hormones talking but that morning sure was an emotional one for me.

All guide books I’ve read about Siem Reap recommended allotting a day for sunrise watching at Angkor Wat. The hotel staff recommended it to be a part of my day 2 itinerary but I begged off.I told him I’d still be too tired from my travel and would want to catch up on my sleep.That is indeed true.At the same time though, I felt that sunrise watching at Angkor Wat would be a great way to cap my last day of touring Angkor.

Despite my resolve to catch up on my sleep, I was not able to sleep well at all.Day 2 had been such a long day – going all the way to Banteay Srei and then visiting 14 “temples” in all.And yet, sleep proved very elusive.I guess I had trouble sleeping alone in such a big bed and in a “new” place yet.It wasn’t until 2:30 in the morning that I finally managed to doze off.I woke up at around 4:30 AM. I looked at my watch and tried so hard to remember if I was able to set it to reflect the local time. Bangkok and Siem Reap are delayed from the Philippines by one hour. Since my arrival, I’ve been mentally adjusting the time reflected on my computer screen to an hour less. I use it to gauge when I should go down for lunch or dinner.

Anyway, while I was in doubt about the time, I stood up and decided to take a shower as it had been a very hot night.I felt somewhat reassured to hear the others in my floor getting ready as well. After a while I heard a knock on my door, it was the hotel staff wanting to check if I was ready for the sunrise tour. He must have thought I wasn’t up yet since I could see the relief written all over his face to see me all dressed up and wiping my wet hair dry.

When I went down (my room was at the third floor), I was given a baguette, some butter and cheese for my “take-out” breakfast.I had to ask for a bottled water as I was not given one. I did not have to wait long before my tuktuk driver came to pick me up.

It was a chilly morning. Well, even in the afternoons, while being in the temples could sometimes be very hot because of the scorching sun, going around in the open tuktuk is somewhat chilly.It must be because there are trees everywhere.Good thing Tatay was thoughtful enough to pack me my Columbia fleece.That and a shawl thrown casually over my still-wet-hair made me warm enough for the short drive to Angkor Wat.

There were already a lot of people at the temple when I arrived. From my hotel alone, the staff had informed me that fifteen (15) of the guests have gone before me. I got a bit concerned noting that the good spot near the pond in front of the temple was already teeming with people.Some even sat on chairs and stools. Still, I was lucky enough to have snagged a spot behind a young, Oriental couple who were seated at the pond’s edge. They look Japanese to me but then again I could be wrong.

Everyone had their camera poised. Many had set up tripods along the pond. As the sky lightened, a lot of clicks could be heard and there are flashes everywhere. I stood there thinking the light and the colors bathing the temple are not as dramatic as I expected them to be. I think it is because the sun wasn’t exactly rising from the temple’s background and that we actually have our back on it. As it began to get brighter, I was among the first few ones who moved out of the pond’s edge.

As I turned my back on the temple, I was surprised to note that a “very-full” moon is shining over us from the back.It looked a lot more dramatic poised over one of Angkor Wat’s ancient library structure.

I was feeling a bit tired as I walked out of the complex.I attributed it all to my utter lack of sleep for several nights. I was delighted to hear an exchange of Tagalog from a group of three who were entering the complex as I was leaving. I immediately smiled at them but did not get a response. I probably looked more Indian to them than Filipino hehehe Either that or they did not expect a fellow kababayan wandering on her own when such experience could be best shared with loved ones and closest friends.

I had no difficulty locating my tuktuk driver who readily asked me if I should visit Bayon next.I told him I’d rather have Bayon as my last stop unless he thinks it’s totally out of the way. He told me it’s not and I found out later the grand tour indeed re-enters Angkor Thom from its north gate before finally exiting the Archeological Park. So it worked out to my plan of capping my three-day temple visit at Bayon.

Sunrise at Srah Srang

My sleep-deprived body is starting to feel the strain and I boarded the tuktuk feeling somewhat less enthusiastic.As it was very early morning, I decided to allot the travel time in prayer. I apologized for feeling less enthusiastic that day. I apologized for feeling “less grateful” than I should, being where I am. I asked if it was just fatigue talking thus the seeming “ungratefulness.” I acknowledged that the opportunity of being there is something I should be very thankful about and that I am indeed, despite feeling somewhat differently at that moment.

As I apologized for not fully appreciating the experience of sunrise at Angkor Wat, I noticed the sun across the horizon. It was huge and very dramatic indeed. Immediately I felt the stung of tears at the back of my eyelids. I felt as if that was God’s answer right there – showing me it was alright if my heart did not sing at the sight of sunrise over Angkor because it was not meant to be so.

Indeed, in comparison, sunrise over at Srah Srang was a lot more magical. There was more drama created by the sun being reflected on the water’s surface. It was only on my flight back home that I was able to read in the guide book that it is worthwhile to also check out an alternative sunrise at Srah Srang instead of the usual one at Angkor Wat.

The Grand Tour

The “grand circuit” covers the temples, Preah Kahn, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon and Pre Rup. I’ve seen the street sign, “Grand Tour” the day before and wondered what it meant. I wondered if it included really great temple structures. Well, in away it did. Maybe not as grand as Angkor Wat and Bayon but all the temples mentioned above were indeed still “majestic” in their own unique way.

I’m personally fond of Preah Kahn. It is a huge monastic complex full of carvings and passages. According to the guide books, it originally served as a monastery and school for over 1000 monks. Later, it became a residence of King Jayavarman VII during the reconstruction of its permanent residence at Angkor Thom. The name also literally translates to, “Sacred Sword” which is represented by the stupa installed in its innermost sanctum or the very heart of the temple.

After the sunrise at Angkor, we exited the complex and passed through Prasat Kravan, SrahSrang and Pre Rup before finally stopping at East Mebon which is our first temple for the day. The colors and lighting were perfect at that time, around 6 AM. The beginnings of sunrise casting the temple in a golden glow. It is similar in structure to Pre Rup, a temple-mountain, rising three levels and crowned by 5 towers.

I was the first visitor at the temple, understandably so, but I was surprised to see the usual designated temple guard. It was a little before 6 AM and yet the guard was there to check on my pass before I was allowed entry. As I made my way up of the temple, I felt the stillness of my surroundings. Everything is so quiet, so still that it was a bit unnerving. Even now, recalling how it was, I feel the prickling of the hairs at the back of my neck.

The energy of the place was really something. The significance of the temple to its earliest inhabitants, the celebrations and rituals that it must have been a witness to, all seemed to permeate the air as I stood there, the lone presence at that time. I took some pictures, hesitant to take each step further into the heart of the temple. I was at the foot of the third level when the energy became totally unbearable. It was too unnerving. I chided myself, thinking I’ve probably just imagined everything. I thought at that time it was only the stillness that is getting on my nerves. That and reading Anne Rice’s vampire chronicles far too many times in the past.

The scene in one of the books – the Queen of the Damned (if I’m not mistaken) – of ancient rituals in ancient temples housing vampires pretending to be Gods came to taunt me, fueling my fear. So when I caught a glimpsed of a “blackened” statue at the inner sanctum of the topmost tower, I retraced my steps, my imagination running amok hehehe When I stumbled upon an enclosed tower littered with holes on my way down, the more fearful I grew. I imagined an “erring” vampire enclosed there, banished to suffer hunger for eternity hahaha! It was such a funny thought and I was half-laughing inside at that time. However, it only made my resolve not to stay any longer at the temple.

Next stop was at Ta Som. It is Bayon-like, with four-faced gopuras. I was not able to explore much of the temple though since once there, I found out I left my purse with my Samsung camera and temple pass at East Mebon. Imagine how I felt at that time. I could not for the love of me remember how I could leave it at the former temple. Another thing too, I was happy to have left the temple, I did not relish the thought of going back but I had to.

Ta Som is quite a distance from East Mebon and I felt ashamed to have caused my tuktuk driver the inconvenience of going back. The time would have been best spent in moving on to the next temple. In my shame, I decided not to go back to Ta Som and explore it some more. Oh and yeah, I felt relieved to have found out the guard at East Mebon took the initiative to search the temple for my purse. He had it ready by his post when I got there. The guard at Ta Som had informed him beforehand thru the radio that we are on our way back there. I did not like the thought of having to search the temple grounds again for my purse.

On our way back to complete the circuit, my driver told me to take care of my pass and I apologized for what happened. I told him my decision to go straight to the next temple – Neak Pean.

Neak Peak is unique in that it is a small island temple located in the middle of what used to be a

baray. The central temple sits at the axis of a lotus patter of four pools. Being the first one there, it was again very eerie. Standing there all alone, along-side one of the pools, I had the feeling that an anaconda is due to come out anytime haha Me and my wild imagination. I can’t help it, what with the coiled serpents that encircle the central temple. Good thing I did not know at that time that its name literally meant, “coiled serpents” hehe The temple is said to be a sacred island, drawing its charm from its ponds and clearing away the sins of those who approach it. The waters from the pool are also said to be curative. I had my doubts though noting how they looked murky to me. However, I also read somewhere that it is good to visit the temple during rainy season when the pools are filled with water which must be a lot cleaner by then.

There was a canoe at the site but being on my own, I did not think it was such a good idea to board it and approach the temple all by myself. I also got a bit concerned about the mosquitoes in the area. There were a lot, considering the temple sits in a swampy area. I did not fancy catching malaria while being there. But it sure is worth the visit as Neak Pean is very unique indeed compared to the other temples.

A visit at Preah Khan completed the grand circuit. It was a huge temple compared to the other three earlier visited. It also has several passages but most of them were closed for safety purposes. Most looked like the roofing is about to collapse. At one part of the temple, there is a huge tree tearing the walls apart. But I loved walking the various halls of the temple. It’s quite easy to imagine monks moving about there. The causeway leading towards it is quite grand as well. It is said that it served as a stage for royal processions on their way to the central shrine, with their colorful forms being reflection on the moats beside it. Imagine that.

Somehow I felt a special connection with Preah Khan (imagined or not hehe). I felt at home there and I felt an unexplainable fondness for it. During my visit there, I sat at the eastern causeway, opposite the wall being overtaken by the huge tree. I loved looking at the windows opposite me and it’s easy to imagine monks looking out from them. I spent considerable time eating my breakfast there. Feeling my energy ebb once again, I felt it was the perfect time to eat my breakfast as I drink up the energy of the place. Compared to the other three where I felt some sort of fear, I was totally at home with Preah Khan. I felt at peace as I sat and ate my “take out” baguette and cheese. That is one thing I missed about Siem Reap as well. The baguette for breakfast accompanying some spread or scrambled eggs. It wasn’t heavy on the stomach, just enough to fuel me for the entire morning.

Saying Goodbye at Bayon

From there, it was back to Bayon for me. We entered Angkor Thom back through the north gate which is closest to Preah Khan. We went past the Terrace of the Leper King and the Elephants. I spent considerable time at Bayon. At one point even, I almost got rundown by an elephant in my haste to return to my tuktuk after taking my last picture of the temple.

I was loathe to walk away, knowing full well that was the last chance of being at the temple complex. From then on it’s back to the town proper and some last-minute shopping before I’m due to leave the next morning for Bangkok.

In the three days I stayed there, I have grown to love Siem Reap and its quiet, laid back ways which is very similar to the Davao of my youth.Oh it’s a busy town with lots of tourists around but it lacks the hustle and the bustle of a big city.I could easily imagine living a few years there, probably employed in a local NGO, lending a hand to the locals.

Back to Bayon, I sat there, contemplating its grandness and silently watching the tourists of all nationalities starting to arrive.I whispered a silent prayer of gratitude for being given a chance to be in the temple’s midst.Then, it dawned on me how I only used to look at the pictures of the temples from the pages of National Geographic; how I would hungrily pour at the pages, enthralled by the temples’ grandness.I remember eagerly awaiting for episodes of NG featuring the same. And yet, at that instant, there I was, looking at it first hand. For the first time in the three days I was there, I was hit with a feeling of gratitude so big I felt as if my heart was about to burst.

Angkor Wat used to be just a dream of my youth and there I was, finally been given the chance to see the temples.It was totally unbelievable.I couldn’t believe I was finally there.I fully understood, sitting there why I had to take the journey on my own.It was meant to be so, because it was the pursuit of a long-time personal dream.

I was indeed very grateful for the experience.I still am and I think I will eternally be grateful for it.Now the temples hold more meaning to me.They no longer just represent the power of the human spirit and how much it could achieve.They now serve as a personal testament that I can achieve anything I want once I set my heart and soul into it.Oh, I always believed in that but this particular experience magnified it even more so.

Thank you, Father God.Indeed, no eye or heart can conceive what you have in store for those who love and trust in You.

Temples Galore (Day 2)

2009-12-03T13:55:00.015+08:00

I wore slippers today. Thanks to an overgrown "next-to-the-pinky" toenail that made it unbearable for me to wear my rubber shoes. But definitely, today was really something. Visited a lot of temples and even went to one that is 37 kilometers away. But it was so worth it.

Firs stop was (1) Baphuon which is again inside the Angkor Thom complex. Close to it was (2) Phimeanakas which was fronted by the famous (3)"Terrance of the Elephants" and (4) "Terrace of the Leper King." Phimeneakas is similar in architecture of the Inca temples - the ziggurats, if I got that right.

After being done with the Angkor Thom complex, we exited via the Victory Gate and immediately stumbled upon (5) "Chau Say Tevoda." Where I took a shot of my manicured but overgrown toenails hehe Next was (6) Thomannom and then (7) Ta Keo. The first two were "little temples." And after a while, you get the feeling of "same old, same.." But that feeling was shortlived however, when I visited the famous (8) Ta Prohm - the site where Angelina Jolie filmed a portion of Tomb Raider.

That is how the temple is known about these days - as Anglina Jolie's. But more credit should be given to the temple. It is beautiful and dramatic, given the overgrown trees dotting the place and threatening to reduce everything to mere ruins. There were restorations everywhere, as what can be seen in my photos of Angkor Wat and other temples later on. Somehow, it lessened the dramatic effect of the temples but it feels good knowing that they are being preserved for the generations yet to come. These temples are a testament to man's genius, to the greatness of our spirit, to what we can all achieve if we only set our mind and heart to it. Aside from that, they were religious, spiritual centers too, and for that they hold a much even greater significance.
(9) Banteay Kdei and the "pool complex" of (10) Sras Rang, completed my morning tour.

We stopped for lunch at one of the restaurants dotting the area. I paid a total of $11.30 for mine and the tuktuk driver's. I ordered Spaghetti and Tomatoes, a banana shake (which I consumed before the spag arrived. It was that good.), and a can of coke - because the spaghetti was bad hahaha! I was debating at that time whether it was just a preggy thing or what but it sure did tasted funny to me. It looked good and I appreciated the finely chopped tomatoes. It was a unique treatment of the sauce compared to the Italian-kind we do at home where the tomatoes are stewed whole. But the sauce tasted funny. It was like they put some Khmer kind of oil or sauce in it. It was a hearty serving but I managed to eat just half of it. That's when I ordered Coke, despite an earlier resolve not to drink softdrinks anymore. I felt I needed to wash the taste out of my palate hehehe.

The bad thing was, while I was able to do something about the taste in my mouth, I did not anticipate it would cause trouble for my stomach too. Some time in the afternoon while visiting one of the temples, I felt the urgency to just sit down and sit still hahaha It was so bad that my stomach seems to be communicating its protest for my utter lack of judgment. It was grumbling so loud and so bad I was scared the other tourists might start to notice and wonder. Good thing was, there wasn't much around since we were doing the not-so-famous circuits of temples hehehe

In the afternoon, we started with (11) Pre Rup. It was huge, and again like that of the Incan ziggurats. After that, we moved on to (12) Banteay Srey which is 37 km away from Siem Reap. It was a long trip even from Pre Rup. It took a while to get there but it was beautiful. If my memory serve me right, it is the first if not among the first temples to be built. Its color is red, which sets it apart from the rest. I noticed the land around there is red too. Clayish so maybe that explains it. The temple is pretty much detailed as well.

I was already very tired by then and was walking more slowly but I knew there were still two to be visited for that day. I hate to cancel them since they are too out-of-the-way and thus while we're at it, it's better to visit them as well. So off we went to (13) Banteay Samre and (14) Prasat Kravan. The latter is pretty much like a "gate"of sorts than a temple. While there, I overheard a fellow tourist asking his guide, "So why like this?" I was wondering the same thing hehehe

Imagine that, yesterday I lost count of the temples that we visited. So it's 14 in all. No wonder Im so tired today. Anyhow, my soul's content :)

Angkor Wat (Temple Tour Day 1)

2009-12-02T00:12:00.009+08:00

I arrived at the hotel at a little over 10:00 AM. That meant I’ve travelled for 24 hours straight – sitting time at the airport and bus stations included. I was tired and would have wanted to just nap but I did not hesitate when the hotel staff suggested utilizing the afternoon for the beginning of my Temple tour. I’m glad I did. Spent a glorious afternoon touring the temples particularly Angkor Wat.

On our way to the temple complex I spotted lots of tourists on their bicycles (rented), also appearing to be on their way there. I felt envious looking at them since they look like little kids really having some fun and adventure.

I hired a tour guide for the purpose although it cost me quite a lot. But it sure was nice hearing about the stories behind the temples. He also came in handy when it came to climbing through steep steps in some parts of the temples particularly back at Bayon and specially so at Phnom Bakeng which sits on top of a mountain. The steps are pretty narrow and steep, they were difficult enough to climb and much so in going down. It is quite daunting looking down at the sheer drop and the steps - the size of which could hardly support a foot of a small child - how much more that of an adult. Plus, there were also some parts that were in crumble, making it totally unsafe and hard to maneuver. But I managed it just the same, thanks to my guide's help. And so did a lot of elderly tourists who seem to arrive by the numbers, all waiting for their turn to view the sunset. I admired their strength. It was quite a climb. I myself had to stop and take a rest at one point and I'm not exactly an elderly hehe

One has to secure a permit or day pass at the complex's entrance. $20 for a day pass, $40 for a three day pass and $60 for a 7-day pass. They take your picture and stamp that on the pass card. I'm thinking of having mine laminated as a souvenir hehe.

The first time I caught a glimpse of Angkor Wat I felt my heart stop. The temple was simply majestic. The mere size of it was already quite... breath-taking. And the architecture... It's quite difficult to describe it in words. It's no wonder thousands of tourists flock to see it everyday.

I was filled with so much gratitude at being given a chance to be there. There are moments when I would just say to myself how I could not believe being finally there.

Bayon Temple was great too, with the four-faced citadel, making it very unique and quite interesting. It wasn't as grand as Angkor Wat but it wasn't less beautiful either.

More pictures at my facebook account :)

Day 1: From Thailand into Cambodia (via Aranyaprathet and Poipet)

2009-12-01T23:39:00.002+08:00

I arrived in Bangkok at 12:00 midnight. It was a long walk from the ramp down to the Immigration area. Half-way in between, I spotted a Forex booth and decided to have a $50 note changed to Baht. I don’t want to risk paying the taxi a crisp 1000 baht (the only I had) lest an excuse about not having a change might be thrown my way. I don’t relish being short of cash while I go about the border-crossing. Good thing I listened to my instinct. Because my first experience in Thailand is not exactly pleasant.

Being done with the immigration, I maneuvered my way out of the airport. Suvarnabhuni Airport is such a huge airport. And there are people everywhere. It could be pretty confusing. On my way out, I noticed the airport “limousine” booths. From research I knew they really are just glorified taxis and so should not be intimidated by them. I thought about hailing one but then again opted to look for the “metered” taxis outside. As they could be a lot cheaper. Or so I thought.

There were several booths outside so I approached the first one that had the shortest line. When it was my turn I asked about how much it is going to cost me, going all the way to Mochit 2 station (bus station). I needed to catch the 5:00 AM first class bus to Aranyaprathet (Thai Border). I did not get a straight answer, only an assurance that it is going to be a metered ride. From research I knew it’s going to cost me between 200-250 Baht.

Then came the first difficulty, the driver could not speak English. So we have difficulty trying to understand each other. I keep repeating I’m due at Morchit 2, just to make sure he had understood me fully. I’ve read that there’s another Mochit station and that it’s quite difficult maneuvering towards the right station from there. And that, mistakes had often been made in the past. So anyway, he asked me where I’m really going and so I told him I’m going to Aran. Next thing I knew, he gave me a sheet with the rates for charting a taxi ride and asked me to look for Aran. I was horrified noting how it would cost me 3000 baht. That would be like around 5K pesos. And a first class bus ticket is only going to cost me 250 Baht at the most. Anyhow, I refused his offer although he kept on insisting that I should just charter him for the ride.

But that wasn’t the worst part. Just outside the airport, at the highway, where there is absolutely no way I could hire another ride, he threw the bomb shell on me. He told me that his asking price for Mochit 2 station is 400 Baht. I knew it was a total rip off and I argued that it’s only 200 to 250 Baht. But he would not listen. He asked me again if it’s alright. I did not totally agree with him but I could not say no either since he could drop me right then and there and I’d be in the middle of nowhere at 1:00 AM in the morning. I was irritated like hell and totally dismayed at having this particular experience on the onset.

Not quite content with that, he keep on insisting that I should just allow him to take me to the hotel so that early in the morning we could go to Aranyaprathet together. I grew a bit scared at the mention of the hotel. After all I am totally on my own and it’s 1:00 in the morning. I keep insisting I don’t have that much money and that I only have 500 baht with me, enough to pay for the taxi and the bus ride to Aran. We have that argument over and over again. When he offered me and asked permission to smoke, that’s when I got a break. I told him, I could not smoke as I’m pregnant. He was totally taken aback but mellowed altogether. He then asked if the “man” is the one who’s waiting for me in Aran. I had earlier mentioned to him that I have friends waiting for me at the border and that they are the ones who told me about how much the taxi would cost. Anyway, I told him that yes, the “man” is at Aran.

He started being polite after that and dropped the charter-thing altogether. But still he insisted about the 400 Baht. I played my card and up to the last moment, I asked if I could just give him 300 Baht for the baby’s sake but he would not budge. He pointed out that we took a long way because I keep refusing that we take the express-way and that it cost him so much gasoline.

Why, from research I’ve already been told not to take these turns as the passengers will be the ones to pay for the toll fees and they cost from 20 Baht and up. So every time he would insist about taking the express way, I would politely but firmly say no and that I’m not in so much hurry anyway since the bus won’t leave till 5:00 AM in the morning.

And so there he dropped me off at the right door of the station where I could get tickets for the bus. God bless his soul, he even asked me to take care of the baby. Huh! Anyway, there were several taxi drivers outside the station and again offered their taxi for a charter ride. I politely said thank you but no and turned my back on them.

At 1:45 AM, the station was deserted. I don’t know what I was expecting. Perhaps, a little like our Ecoland Overland Terminal that is always bustling with people. Anyway, there were a handful of passengers there. Some sleeping on the floor while the rest, slouched over their seats. It took a while before I was able to find the right seat where I could “slouch’ over my backpack comfortably. I was very much in need of sleep but could not totally doze off given my position. Instead, I stared right at booth 24 and 25, which from research I learned are where I could avail of the first class tickets. It’s not helpful that all the signs are in Thai. So I just stared at it, looking for the “Aranyaprathet” sign after noticing that the other windows have the names of the place written in English next to the Thai sign. It was as if I was willing the windows to bear the Aran name.

At a little over 2:00 AM, the second and third class bus booths started opening. I was tempted to take the second class ride, wanting to be on my way and sleeping off the hours on the bus. But I knew it would have several stops and would also be a little less uncomfortable than the first class ride. So I waited. A little after that booth 30 of the first class side opened up. Several people queued up for it but I ignored it, giving booths 24 and 25 my full attention. Good thing curiosity got the better of me. I stood right up in alarm when I noted the booth read, “Aranyaprathet.” I was stunned. And I told myself some time ago they must have made some modifications. True enough, even the bus ramp no. 116 that I got from the net is now made to 121.

Up to the last minute I hesitated about taking the bus even though the ticket I had in hand screamed “Aranyaprathet” at me. Anyhow, I boarded it and drifted in and out of dreamland all the way to Aranyaprathet. At one point, I was roused from slumber and noticed the terminal reads, “Aran,” I asked if it is Aranyaprathet and explained I’m due to go down there. But everybody just keep telling me it’s “Aran” and I’m not pretty sure if it also means Aranyaprathet or a different place altogether. I don’t want to go down and be in a place a hundred miles a way from where I should be.

But my instinct told me to go down right there. When I gestured for the driver and the conductor to let me go down, they motioned that I will be dropped off a little bit farther. Anyway, I grew scared when I noticed a sign that read, “Welcome to Cambodia.” I got a little concerned about entering Cambodia without proper documentation. But my head screamed at me that it is hardly logical for a Thai bus to go straight right into Cambodia without passing through immigration.

My seatmate, a lady wasn’t helping either. She kept gesturing to me that I am still in Aran, only we are in a place called, “shopping.” She kept repeating the word, “shopping.” And so I asked if she meant market since the bus did enter into some kind of a market place. Anyhow, I went down when everybody else did and hoped against hope I could retrace my steps back to the booth somewhere in the highway that read, “Tourist Information Booth.”

I was never good with directions. That is Tatay’s gift and not my own. I’m an audio-type of person. I could remember speeches and verbatim agreements down to the last detail, but signs and places, not at all. I also have a poor idea of what is near and far. So there goes. But I gathered my courage and wits around me, carried my backpack and walked bravely towards the highway. I know I should not appear alarmed or let on that I’m lost or else I’d be attracting trouble.

I was happy to have found the booth exactly where I thought it would be but the relief was short-lived noting there was nobody there to assist me. And so I walked a little bit further and noticed some kind of a second-hand car sales office. I asked the ladies there, where the Thai immigration office is. That’s when I got my second “tasteless” experience of Thailand. Good thing I’ve learned my lesson and was very polite but firm.

When I asked for directions, this lady referred me to a guy whose office is just a little bit farther than their own. Anyway, I was relieved to have found someone to talk to. Even though the whole time I was wishing I was back home where everybody knows how to speak English. Anyway, this guy then started to talk me into paying him 700 Baht for the immigration form. I felt my skin literally crawl. I always dislike “dishonest” people. The kind that could sit there and have the nerve to rip you off and make you appear stupid. Anyway, I explained that I have friends already waiting for me in Poipet (although there was none) and that they told me I ought to just go straight to the Thai immigration office and that being Filipino there is no need for me to pay for anything.

From 700 Baht the guy haggled it down to 100 Baht and I told him I’m prepared to pay 80 Baht for the tuktuk that would take me to the Immigration office and so that much I could pay him if only he would point me to the right direction. I told him politely that I know I could have the form he is giving me for free down at the immigration office and that could he please get me a tuktuk that would take me there. The saving grace was that he appeared intimidated that I could speak fluent English whereas he had to struggle the words out. Try as he might, he could not express himself fully whereas I’ve been very fluent at telling him what I want exactly. Since we had a hard time talking, I politely asked if the office is just a walking distance away since I could just walk my way there. He insisted about having his friend help me through the process for 100 Baht but I told him I’m willing to pay 80 Baht only. Anyway, I told him I’ll just walk away and look for the office myself.

I was relieved to have found some kind of a checkpoint and asked the officers there where the Immigration office is and gestured I needed to have my passport stamped. Very graciously, they pointed me to the right direction which is just a few meters a way. One officer was very exact and told me it is just 200 meters ahead. After that I had no difficulty finding the Thai and the Cambodia immigration offices. I filled out the same form that was offered to me at 700 B earlier for free, and had my passport stamped in both offices without paying a single cent.

I would have wanted to take a picture of the border but the recent experience rubbed my nerves raw. I thought it would not be such a good idea to be flashing around my camera and have someone take advantage of me again.

I’m not sure if it was just because of the recent experience but I did not like the border one bit. It unnerved me. The energy of the place did not feel “well” for me. The whole stretch was planked with casinos on both sides. I guess that added to the not so good feel of the place. And there were people everywhere. And every feet or so, someone would approach me to ask if I needed a taxi to go into Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. It was all so unnerving but I kept my cool. I just smiled and said thank you and that there is already a taxi waiting for me at Poipet. And I was glad I have taken cared of this detail early on. It would have been stressful trying to look for an “honest-looking” driver.

Before I knew it, I was on my way to Siem Reap and spend one of the most wonderful afternoons of my life. I’ve always dreamed of seeing Angkor Wat first hand. Finding myself in her midst I was filled with so much gratitude. I couldn’t believe I was finally there and that the great temple is staring right back at me. But that is a different entry altogether…

Boracay: In Transit (1st Part of 2)

2009-01-19T02:01:00.008+08:00

Prelude. It was already 3:00 PM when we got to the terminal for vans bound for Kalibo. I was feeling a bit concerned since Kalibo is still three hours away and then Caticlan will take another two hours from there.

There was a van about to go already when we got there but we were advised to wait for the next one so we could sit comfortably and so we did. It was just a little while before the next van came but to me, every minute that passed seemed an eternity. When the next van came, we immediately took the seat at the back of the driver. It was just perfect for all of us. It was roomy and sits the four of us and the kids quite comfortably. Then the first of a series of mishaps happened.

The van wasn’t parked correctly so the driver was advised to do so. I don’t know what was wrong with him but he certainly did seem over zealous. In his haste, he managed to get us into a ditch! Imagine that! And that was not all. When the right, front wheel fell into the ditch, the sliding door of the van also got dislodged. With the ease with which the driver returned the door to its place, I knew that that wasn’t the first time it happened. And I was like, “Oh, alright…” After that incident I finally noticed that the van’s interiors were shabby and some seats were in need of repairs.

I was never one of those travelers who is a stickler for comfort and style. A little (or more) discomfort does not disconcert me. To me, it’s part of the adventure. However, this time, I was traveling with family and their safety is what matters to me. As how it often is in traveling in the provinces, there isn’t much of an alternative and besides, that was the last trip bound for Kalibo. So we stayed with the van despite some warning bells ringing in my head. Nonetheless, I remained optimistic. And soon after we were on our way.

As if to counter my optimism, it rained along the way. And to add to my dismay, there were probably holes on the roof of the van since there were some drippings inside. I was happy to note, however, that on where we were seated, there was none. So compared to the other passengers, we were relatively dry. Or so I thought.

Somewhere a long the way the driver opened his side of the window. This, in order to make it easier for him to reach out and wipe dry his side of the windshield as the wiper wasn’t working at all. (Yes, imagine that! Wiper not working and it was raining cats and dogs at that time!) And then as I was feeling grateful for being relatively dry despite the depressing state of the van, a speeding bus from the opposite direction managed to send our way – through the opened window of our driver – quite a splash of water. And the water went straight to my face!

My reaction was immediate. I laughed out loud so suddenly that Mama looked at me in alarm. I was really finding the whole thing amusing. Mama also laughed when she finally understood why I was laughing. I mean, the whole experience was really something. To me, it felt as if it was properly staged, complete with all the works. Everything seemed a scene out of a comedy movie. And I must add -- once or twice a long the way, the door also dislodged itself after a passenger alighted from the van.

The light was starting to fade and I was also noting that there are more dark clouds across the horizon. I was fearful that it was raining hard in Caticlan too. We had booked our accommodations at Boracay for that night and the following two days. I do not fancy having to look for a place in Caticlan in case we would not be allowed to cross due to bad weather.

At Kalibo. I was glad when I started to recognize the outskirts of Kalibo. We are at last on our last leg of the trip. My gladness soon gave way to sorrow when I started to notice the state of the place. Our taxi driver in Iloilo had informed us that Kalibo was the hardest hit by the typhoon and that the devastation we saw in Jaro (which was really something) was nothing compared to Kalibo’s. So I had had my expectations. It was, however, nothing compared to what I saw. Billboards had fallen. There were full roofs stuck in the middle of electric lines. Houses and buildings alike were in a state of disarray. It was a depressing sight.

The driver of the van we were on was kind enough to take us to where there were vans bound for Caticlan even though it was still several blocks from where his stop should be. It wasn’t raining when we arrived in Kalibo but it started to rain just as we are about to board the second van. It was already dark when we started for Caticlan. I looked longingly at jeeps bearing the “New Washington” signboards. I know we were very close to the place. But that would have to wait. For now, Boracay awaits.

I was grateful to note that this part of the road network was really good. Though most part of the way was in a zig-zag, the roads were not bumpy at all. It was by far better than the roads networks of Iloilo-Roxas-Kalibo. I guess the local government really made an investment on this. Boracay, after all, is frequented by quite a number of tourists whole-year round.

We traveled in the dark with the headlights of the van only making the illumination. Thankfully, as if to make up for the previous experience, the second van was very roomy and very comfortable. The aircon was working well too. So it was really a very relaxing ride. The olds, however, are starting to show the signs of fatigue. It had been a long day. I was tired myself.

It was already 8:00 PM when we reached the jetty terminal. I was surprised to find out there were still several tourists there, also on their way to Bora. In my tiredness and confusion, I had to make several visits to the ticket booth. Things have changed. I was expecting we’ll be buying ferry tickets inside the terminal as before. This time, we had to get it from the windows outside.

Anyway, exhaustion was really starting to wear me down especially when Baby still showed signs of being in high spirits. He was running all over the place. Still, I was able to take special note of the interesting things going on in the terminal. There were several tourists there. The group was a mixture of Asian and local tourists. Most looked Oriental. There were kids too as there were several families there. I thought this was interesting especially since it’s the first week of July and school has already started. They were probably from International Schools, or from schools that observe trimesters. Or, probably, like us, they really just made time for a quick vacation. In our case, we had to talk to Janin’s teacher to excuse her for a few days from school.

We had to wait for a while for the ferry and it only underlined our weariness. I know the olds were already eager to rest. We had had little sleep the night before in order to pack and then we had to wake up real early to catch an early 6:15 AM flight. And then we had been traveling non-stop since then. We were quite a big group -- waiting for the ferry -- and everyone seemed intent to board it no matter what. Thankfully, we were still able to sit comfortably at the back. The crossing just took 15 to 20 minutes.

Bora at last. Unlike in the past wherein the ferry would make a beeline for white beach, this time, there is already a designated “pier.” So we again had to board a tricycle that would take us to our resort. To our dismay we noted that the island is enveloped in darkness. There was a brownout. That had me worried. It made me think the owner of the resort probably just reassured us that everything is well but in truth it wasn’t. The tricycle driver was reassuring, however, saying that the lights are due to be on any minute and that life in Bora had already been restored even the week before.

It took a while before a personnel from the resort we were to stay came to where we were waiting. The olds were growing fretful by the minute. It really was just exhaustion talking. An then at long last, there we were. We rented an entire house for the occasion. While there was only one bedroom, there are two big beds. The sala was spacious also that could hold another big bed. The place come with a ref too, perfect for the groceries we bought in Roxas. We knew that everything is expensive in Bora and the next day was my birthday after all. We intended to have some macaroni salad so we really had to buy groceries from Roxas.

What I appreciated most about the place was the wi-fi connection. It meant I could still do my work and email my reports on time. It also meant we could easily get in touch with Ate and the kids 24/7. Well, 24/3 that is, since we would be in Bora for 3 days only. It was the reason why, as inconvenient as it may have been, I dragged my laptop all the way there.

Andok’s. Our immediate need was food so we went out in search of restaurants. We immediately stumbled upon “Andok’s.” I was a bit surprised to have found some relatively priced resto’s in Bora. In the past, everything seemed awfully expensive. With the likes of Andok’s and Mang Inasal dotting the place, local tourists now have some cheaper alternatives.

For the second time that day, Bee and I had bangus. For that second time that day as well, the olds and Janin are having chicken. Luckily this time, the joint sell pork sinigang so they had that as well. I couldn’t resist an order of leche flan. It had been a long day, I was in need of some comfort food. After eating we went back to our cottage, washed up and slept. (To be continued...)

Roxas City Trip

2008-08-01T17:55:00.006+08:00

For the longest time I’ve been wanting to take Mama on a trip somewhere. It’s high time that she starts enjoying the fine things in life. She’s always been hardworking, always bent on providing for and serving the people in her life. It’s high time that someone starts thinking about giving her what is due her. Oh, I’ve always been mindful of her and all the sacrifices she did and is still doing for the family. But I never really had the chance to treat her big time. For one thing, I did not have the resources before. And when there were instances that I did have the resources, she would always decline the offer, saying it would just be a waste of money.

So this time, not to give her the time to refuse, I booked her plane ticket in advance. So I just broke it to her gently that she had to take a leave from work for two days as her ticket is non-refundable. I had booked her ticket two months in advance so she would have the time to have the whole idea sink in and well, to prepare for the trip.

For two months, there were times I would sense her excitement for the trip. But there were also times when she would express her misgivings for the whole thing, for the expense and for the time it would take her away from work. She bemoaned the fact that she would be away from her work and how the money that I would spend for her and Janin be used for a more worthwhile project. When she would get into this mood, I would immediately turn away lest we would again get into one of our arguments. In the end she lightened up especially when it was settled that Mama Fely will be joining us as well. It was one of her worries – who would be left with Mama Fely when we were away. I worried about that as well. Good thing Ate made arrangements for her to join us.

Choosing the Place. Baguio and Ilocos was one of the trip options. Actually I had a hard time deciding where to take her. But since Bolo and I had recently been to Baguio, I had certain misgivings about going there again. Ilocos is another thing though. The last time I’ve been there was some four or five years ago. So I was kind of toying with the idea. I could no longer remember how it came to be that I finally decided on Boracay. I think it had something to do with the available flights and the promo.

Boracay. I’ve never been fond of the place before. I’ve been there twice and I used to think being there once is enough. I’m fond of Panay as a whole though. I love visiting Iloilo and all its churches (especially those I have not been to yet). And I’m particularly fond of Kalibo or to be more apt, New Washington because of Sampaguita Gardens. And I had yet to visit Antique, Guimarras and Roxas City.

I’ve always been wanting to visit Roxas City. The last time I had a chance to visit Panay, I’ve been able to go to Miag-ao (one of my must-see places) despite the tight schedule I had. At that time, we were actually staying at Sampaguita Gardens for several days. Since we were real close to Boracay already, we decided to go there. But I would have rather visited Roxas City since I’ve never been there yet. Aside from the fact that I’ve always wanted to visit Pan-ay Church and its historic Bell (Biggest in Asia and third in the world). So when we finally decided on Boracay at this time, I fully intended to go Roxas City.

It was a little difficult deciding on the itinerary given the limited time we had. We only had 5 full days and I had intended we cover Roxas, Miag-ao, some other churches in Iloilo, New Washington and well, Boracay. Guimarras and nearby Bacolod sounded appealing and I know I would have squeezed them in if I only had enough time.

The trip. Landing in Iloilo on our first day, we immediately made a segue to the terminal for the bus that would take us to Roxas City. We passed by a portion of Jaro District on our way there and we saw the devastation left by Typhoon Frank. Yes, our trip was scheduled right around that time. Fortunately for us, our schedule was not on the week when the typhoon hit but around two weeks after its onslaught. Frank left such a big damage though so there were talks that Panay and Boracay would not recover in a month. Imagine that! Everything was plastered in the news and what was shown was not exactly a pretty picture. The olds were starting to voice out their concerns and so did our close friends who knew of the trip. But the owner of the resort we booked in Boracay was reassuring and so we went ahead with the trip.

It took some time before the bus left for Roxas and the ride was not exactly smooth. We arrived at Roxas at around 1 pm and we were actually starving having no decent breakfast but some packed cheese sandwiches. So we immediately hailed a cab. In Roxas, translate that to – tricycle. We headed straight to Gaisano Metro and into Mang Inasal. Ah, Mang Inasal is another story altogether. I intend to devote a separate entry just for it.

Anyway, since we intended to go around Roxas very quickly, given the limited time we had, we decided to hire the tricycle we hailed for the entire afternoon. So we practically went around Roxas city in our “tri-wheeled limousine” :)

Pan-ay Church was our objective in Roxas but since we were already close to the “Roxas Mansion” – Sen. Mar Roxas’ residence – we decided to visit is as well and take a few pictures. After which, we went straight to Pan-ay Church.

The church was located at some distance from the city proper. It took a while before we got there. I was happy to find out that the church was open. The olds and I immediately knelt down to pray. The kids however have different ideas. They were running about and shouting, much to my consternation.

I almost moaned out loud when I found out the belfry was locked. I was there for the Bell and it would certainly be a shame to miss it this time. Who knows when I’d have the time and the resources to visit again. I urged Bee to inquire at the cumvento whether we could have the belfry opened. We both did but we were informed that the caretaker left and would not be returning for some time. My heart sank but still I did not lose hope. And true enough, soon after the caretaker arrived and we were allowed entry.

The climb. It was quite a climb to the top. I got pleased and at the same time fearful when Mama displayed her enthusiasm to go up the belfry. Pleased because I was really happy for her. It also made me realize she is really hungry for such adventures and I’m glad to have been given the opportunity to give that to her. Fearful because not only was the climb long, the stairs were real steep as well. Even I had a hard time maneuvering the stairs (especially in going down!) And of course there was her hypertension to consider.

On the way up, I kept reminding her to take her time and not to rush to the top. I assured her we had all day to conquer the bell and that she should not worry about her slow ascent. Of course we did not have all day but I can’t have her sick just because I was very much a stickler for time.

And then before I knew it, we were all on the top of the belfry. The bell was huge alright and the 360 angle view of Roxas was heavenly as well. I just got a bit concerned with Baby. The place wasn’t exactly “fall-proof” and it was quite a drop from there to the ground – a no-no place for a toddler who has boundless energy. So we made sure we always had a hand on him.

On our way down, I urged Bolo to make a donation. I urged him to make a bigger donation when I saw him take a bill of low denomination. I pointed out to him that we do not know when we will be able to come and visit the church again. That could very well be the only chance we get to make a donation.

We took a few more pictures of the church when we got down. Afterwards we headed back to downtown so we could catch our ride for Caticlan. Next stop – Boracay!

Some trivia: There are several bells at the belfry aside from the big bell. If I’m not mistaken, there were 9 bells in all. The caretaker told us that during special occasions such as weddings, all 9 bells will be rang and that the sound would be heard far and wide. Hmm… talk about declaring to the world that you’ve finally tied the knot : )

Bontoc Sagada Baguio Trip 2007

2008-03-10T13:10:00.003+08:00

This would do for now. Details and tidbits about the trip would have to follow later :)

Ivan Henares is Giving Away Free Tickets for Boracay!

2008-02-08T15:20:00.000+08:00

Yup! you read it right. Check out Ivan's blog for details.

I think it's a good thing since the family has been thinking of going there come summer time. And I've been thinking of bringing Mama along, who I think, by the way, deserves a long overdue break. She's been teaching for almost three decades now and is about due for retirement next year. I truly hink she ought to start thinking about herself for once. In short, I'm actually trying to win the ticket for her ;)

Well, having a free ticket even for just one of us sure could come a long way hehehe. Sure hope I'd win! =) It's a promo of SEAIR (i think), that dependable airline which flies to Boracay several times a week. . So, family and friends, go check out Ivan's blog and let's hope one of us would win! ;)

Urban Warriors Adventure Race '07

2007-08-15T16:04:00.000+08:00

Below are some of the pictures we had of the race Bolo and I participated in. For now, I'll be posting the pictures. The details will come later :)

How Much Have I Seen of the Philippines?

2007-06-16T02:07:00.001+08:00

My Lakbayan grade is B-!

How much of the Philippines have you visited? Find out at Lakbayan!

Created by Eugene Villar.

So how much have I seen of the Philippines? Apparently not that much yet, but not bad altogether basing on the "B-" Looking forward to improving my rating to A+ though hehehe Hopefully, soon! So how about you? How much have you seen of this beautiful country of ours? =)

Ilocandia Nostalgia

2007-06-03T00:21:00.000+08:00

I always remember my Ilocos trip with fondness because Ilocos appeals so much to that part of me that values the past and history. I particularly liked Vigan and all of its "old" structures, museums and of course, the world renowned "Heritage Village." I was able to take lots of pictures there.

I remember taking a picture of a particular structure in one of the museums we visited. I was greatly amused when the caretaker informed us it used to be the "comfort room." However, I particularly liked the picture I took below. I was inside the Burgos Museum looking out. The calesa featured here is the one we hired for the day. It took us all over Vigan and somewhat lent "authenticity" to the entire experience. What could be more fitting than revisiting the past while riding in a calesa? =)

Attended a training at DAP Pasig, September of 2004. Had sessions at DAP and stayed at Linden Suites for 5 days. On the weekend, Te Jean and I took advantage of our being in Luzon and decided to take a sidetrip in Ilocos.

We took the 10:00 PM bus ride for Vigan after our dinner date with our president at Greenbelt. Arrived in Vigan at around 6:00 AM. We had breakfast at their Chowking there. I must add that the architecture was great. Even their new buildings there were designed to match the "vintage" look that Vigan's Heritage Village has been known for. Check out the Mc Donald's Picture below.

We practically spent the entire morning going around Vigan. After lunch -- had an eggplant dish called "pinuque" (I know, I know, it sounds weird hehe but it was really great-tasting. Hmm.. I wonder if that's the reason how it got its name hehehe) -- we caught the bus bound for Marco's hometown in Batac. We browsed at the Marcos Museum there and queued up for a view of his remains. Hmm... how morbid could that sound -- remains. Anyway, the mausoleum where he lay was pretty morbid itself. It was dark and cold. Plus, there was a "requiemic"-sounding music in the background that only -- in my opinion -- made the atmosphere the more.. gloomy.

After that we took a tricycle ride (yup! we were that poor hehehe) to see the Malacanang of the North. They called it "Balay Ti Amianan." Then we went to see the breath-taking Paoay Church. I've always been fascinated with Churches. in my travels, I make it a point to visit renowned old churches of the place. I dream of coming up with a complete album of the churches I visited. I may post one here one day. But anyway, I'm digressing here. All I wanted to say was that of all the churches I've been to, Paoay Church simply took my breath away. It was majestic in a dramatic sort of way. Taal Church is buge and great but Paoay has a certain quality to it that is quite unique. I find it difficult to find the words to describe how majestic it was.

After Paoay, we toured a bit of Fort Ilocandia then we proceeded to Laoag. It had started to rain. I knew we could forego Laoag altogether but as usual I did my research before I went on travel. My "bible" -- 26 Days Around the Philippines -- specifically said that the Laoag Church and its sinking tower is worth seeing. So I was definitely dead-set about seeing it. Besides, we were already there and just a tricycle ride away. We practically just had to cross that great bridge to get to Laoag and so off we went.

The church was in renovation when we got there. It wasn't as "old"-looking as I would have wanted it to be. And the sinking tower was a disappointment too. It was located right-smacked in the city's busy street. And while there was a signage announcing its historical value, it was obvious that the locals did not quite regard it as such. But of course I could not pass on any judgment. I had only been there for a day.

What was great about my Laoag experience though was the night market. Ukay-ukay, plastic wares and anything saleable that one could imagine abound right on the street where the sinking tower was. It was just across the city's Chowking outlet where Ate Jean and I had our afternoon halo-halo and dinner afterwards.

I checked out the ukay-scene and came up with a real neat cardigan overcoat that was too small for me. Well it looked new and I was hoping I'd lose enough weight to finally fit it. I ended up giving it away to a cousin. Anyway, I was crazy about board shorts then too and checked out every short there was. I did not find anything worth buying though. There were a few ones that caught my fancy but they were quite pricey so..

We toured a bit of Laoag downtown and tried our best to take a decent picture of the province's capitol at night-time. I must add the attempt did not result to anything much. My digital camera konked out even before we were out of Vigan. We only had Ate Jean's camera then. That also explains why there are no more pictures here after the ones I took in Vigan. I just would have to scan most of the Ilocos pictures we had of this trip. Soon, I hope to find the time.

At around 9:00 PM, we caught the last trip bound for Manila. I was excited to find out we chance upon a "coached-type" bus. Ate Jean and I each had one "bed" to ourselves. The bus was roomy and it allows us to recline our seats so we could sleep comfortably. It was real cold though that I was glad I brought a good jacket with me. We nearly fell off our seats though when we found out how much the fare was. We paid close to 800 pesos each. And that was in 2004 yet, way before the gasoline increase chu-chu.

I thought it was worth it though. After moving around Ilocos in a humble tricycle, I think we deserve to cap the day by traveling in style =) I'm not sure about looking stylish then though. There I was, slouching in my seat in my attempt to ward off the cold while I keep a close eye on a native abacca bag I bought in Vigan. It looked stylish alright although quite misshapen by the number of little burnay jars i stuffed it with. Believe me, if only there was a way to bring with me the real big ones, I knew I would have bought one. I was that smitten by it. I don't know why =)

Below are some of the pictures I took while in Vigan. For more pictures, you can take a look at my multiply page.

Canibad 2007

2007-05-02T12:22:00.000+08:00

Taking advantage of the holiday, some of my officemates and I went to Canibad in Samal Island. It's been ages since I've last been there. Bolo and I were in fact feeling a bit nostalgic than usual. The first time we were there together was when we were still about 6 months into our relationship. Two friends of mine -- Suzette and Bambie -- from AMOC were co-celebrating their birthdays there. It's the first time I brought him with me to meet them. It was through the invitation of Suzette whom Bolo and I would open bump into each other during our nightly runs at PTA.

Now, several years later, we return to the same place with our own little one in tow. It is such a... surreal experience. Bolo and I can't help to think about how funny life could be. Little did we know at that time that he and I would end up marrying each other. Let alone that we will be back in Canibad bringing our son along.

Changes

The place is still beautiful. And same as before, it is hardly that accessible hehehe Well, it's a long way from Peñaplata -- or Babak for that matter -- two of the populous town of Samal with Babak being it's capital. (Am I right?) I must admit the trip -- both to and from -- was tiring but it's all worth it. I guess part of the reason for it maintaining its charm is the fact that it is not that accessible to everyone.

But there were some changes alright. When we were close to the jump-off to the beach, I craned my neck, looking out for that nook where there's a cross in the road. It was where the whole gang waited for our ride to arrive during that birthday outing. I regard that place special since Bolo and I we're deep into conversation at that time. Well, the relationship had been pretty new at that time. So it's no wonder if everything was still sweet and well... relevant. I was a bit disappointed to find out that that particular nook have changed. There are now two houses on it. It looked pretty much habituated thus obliterating any semblance of "romance" it might have had in the past.

Anyway, even the path down to the beach has also changed. If before, there was nothing but jutting jurassic coral formations wherein to lodge your foot into, now there are modified steps and bamboo railposts where one can securely hold onto while going down.

I was also surprised to have found that there are already cottages there. They're for rent from P 150.00 to P 300.00. We also have to pay a P 20.00-entrance-fee. What did not change however, was the rustic beauty of the place. The water is still very much clear and clean. There's no getting enough of it. We were in fact loathe to go home when the time came. We would have gladly lingered in the water.

Bantayan Island, Cebu

2006-12-30T18:50:00.000+08:00

Pre-script: I've been wanting to post this entry for the longest time. Not to mention, I've been itching to have the chance to write and reflect but never really had the time to. Immediately following the Cebu trip, I had but one week to prepare for an important training. The week after that, I implemented the training. A week after that, I'm busy preparing for Baby's first birthday! Imagine that. To cut it short, Baby's birthday have been satisfyingly concluded (thanks to the support and love of Candy, Dane and Jeni love u guys. And Bolo too of course and the rest of the family)

I've had a training in Cebu last week of October. It coincided with the MFPI Mid-year Congress. It broke my heart to tell Bolo that he would have to forgo attending the latter. Even at the last minute we were looking for a substitute who could possibly act as Baby's "yaya" while we were in Cebu. I begged Mama to go but she said she could not, owing to a seminar they will be having at school. In the end, we hastily arranged for Bolo's ticket and that of Baby.

At the Davao airport Baby is clowning around as usual while we were waiting for our plane. There's no containing him these days. He had to be up and about.

Still clowning around.

Bb: Nanay, put me down, I wanted to walk around!

It meant eating up at our savings again. But there never really was any hesitation for Bolo and I. To us, savings or not, Baby's welfare is all that matters. It's a good thing though that God truly provided for this trip (as usual, He never did fail me... Thank you Father God). I had a chance at a documentation job and it gave us enough to buy Bolo's plane ticket, some pocket money and allowance for a side trip hehehe Truly, when God bestows blessings, it overflows :)

Baby: Nanay, see me making pa-cute hehehe At the Cebu airport. Bolo feeds Baby while we were waiting for our ride to the hotel.

Even at the last minute Bolo and I were quite hesitant about going on a sidetrip. I was pretty excited about Bantayan. It was supposed to be mine and Bolo's "honeymoon destination" but work and then the pregnancy got in the way. So we had to postpone it for another year. Our anniversary have come and gone. Instead of going to Bantayan, the opportunity to go to Legazpi presented itself so off we went there instead. It wasn't even for a leisure trip but work. And our stay in Legazpi saw Bolo being cooped up in the hotel, taking care of Baby and me being too busy with the training and some take-on work to truly notice we were in a new place. We did appreciate the fact that we were given the opportunity to tour Legazpi on our free day though. I've already posted the pictures of that trip here already.

Back to Bantayan. On our stay in Cebu, there was a brewing typhoon somewhere in the north. And Bantayan being at the north most tip of Cebu, it looked as if the odds are against us. Bantayan, by the way, is four hours away from Cebu City by bus and another hour of ferry-ride from mainland Cebu Island. If it had just been Bolo and I, typhoon or not, it would not matter to us. We would still give it a shot even if it meant we might not be able to board the ferry because of the typhoon. To us, we just might get lucky and be given the clear weather over at Bantayan. However, having Baby meant some hesitation. Of course, we couldn't just risk it. We have his well-being and safety to consider.

But anyway, (I really love to linger at the details huh? Before going on to the meat of the story hehehe sorry. I just love to lay down the details to get them over and done with. And besides, details such as this is really pretty much a part of the experience, if one would think about it...) given the title of this entry, I guess one can deduce that we were indeed able to go to Bantayan hehehe We did, in the company of Juliet -- a PLSD (what my training was about) point person who turned out to be a mountaineer too.

As I said I was on a training in Cebu. And not only that, Ate Jean and I are slaving over some proposal too. So on my last night in Cebu, I did not sleep at all. After the training, I helped Bolo packed our stuff. There were the training materials and equipment that have to be taken cared of and stowed while we will be on our trip so we took care of that first. Then, we packed our clothes. The dirty ones and those we will not be wearing anymore went to the trolley and another bag. That will be stowed along with the training stuff. Our "Bantayan" clothes -- shorts and swim wear -- and that we will be wearing on our trip back to Davao went to a Backpack. Baby's sterilizer, bottles, bowl, spoon and milk went to another.

We were packing when Gladys and Geian arrived -- two of my pamangkins in Cebu. I was so busy I was not even able to squeeze in some time to visit them. So they visited me instead. It was unfortunate that Baby was already asleep when they came...

After packing, Ate Jean and I went down to the lobby (it's the only place in the hotel that had bright lights on) to work on the proposal. Upon Bolo's advice, I showered and changed into my trip attire already. It was a good idea considering at 3 AM he, Juliet and Baby emerged from the elevator adjacent to where I'm sitting all packed and ready to go. We had to catch the 4 AM bus bound for Hagnaya where we will catch the ferry for Bantayan. Ate Jean and I hastily wrapped up everything, making sure I had the files saved to my flash disk. I would have to look for an internet cafe at Bantayan to email the files back to the office. Yeah, work again while on a vacation. I'm not complaining though.

We had to take a taxi for the northbound terminal. Upon reaching there, we made a wrong decision of not taking the Ceres ride. That would have been more comfortable. But there was no one to ask as all of us have never been to Bantayan at all. All that we knew was that it is important that we get to Hagnayan on time to catch the first ferry for the island.

It did not help that it was pre-todos los santos. Many, it seems, were bound for Bantayan or the municipalities along the way. The bus was jam packed. Most of the passengers have flowers with them and some big, tin cans of biscuits. It reminded me that we have to enjoy the little time we will be spending at Bantayan since we had to catch our plane ride back to home to make it for the Nov. 1 celebration.

I was really tired from the training, not to mention the lack of sleep so I was asleep most of the way. At one point I woke up to receive a call from Te Jean as there were some concerns with the participants who were still at the hotel. That's when Bolo and I discussed we were compromising Baby somewhat. It was not a comfortable ride. But Bolo and I are trying to make Baby as comfortable as possible. By the looks of it, he is not feeling any discomfort at all still Bolo and I grew sober. We vowed we won't do any travelling anytime soon. At least not in those conditions.

At 7:30 AM we reached Hagnaya. We had to wait awhile before the offices of the ferries open to buy our tickets. There were two options -- to go by the fast craft or the slow boat. The former proved more expensive but we took it because of the time factor. Still, it took as some time to be on our way since we had to wait for the Mayor of Sta. Fe who is also taking the ferry. It was quite a delay I did not relish experiencing. I was growing impatient by the minute but there was no choice but to sit it out. Once the ferry was underway, I slept along with Baby.

On board the ferry.

It was a good hour before we docked at Sta. Fe. While we were at the ferry terminal in Hagnaya, we were already asking some of the passengers there as to a preferred resort in which to stay. No one really gave us a straight reply so we settled to a place recommended by Renee. She, Bambie, Suzette and some of the guys have been to Bantayan also recently. We were not able to go with them since I was in Cagayan for some work at that time.

We stayed at the Marlin's Place. It was a big room. The beds were tiny though but Bolo, Baby and I managed to share one bed. The other bed went to Juliet. I would have wanted to nap awhile but Bolo was eager to be up and about already. He engaged the services of a tricycle that would take us around the island. The one at the resort recommended some places for us to see. Some were quite at a distance from the resort but he urged us to see them. So, we just changed into shorts and off we went.

First stop was Bantayan proper. It was quite at a distance from Sta. Fe where we are staying. Bolo directed the driver to head straight to the market. We intended to buy some crabs for breakfast hehehe Actually, one of the reasons why we went to Bantayan was because we heard that we could buy crabs at 10 pesos a kilo hehe imagine that. Well, it wasn't really just at 10 pesos but we got it cheap just the same. Bolo bought a kilo, went to one of the nearby bar-b-q stalls and had it cooked there. To Juliet's delight, we found out that it wasn't chicken bbqs being lined in front of the stall but "pague" bbqs. She eagerly told us how it is considered a delicacy in Pangasinan where she is from. She told us too that the reason why it is such a treat in Pangasinan because it is noted for its therapeutic properties. She told us it does wonder for the digestive system. That was enough to convince me that we should order some too.

Bolo left us momentarily to scout for Ukay2x. After awhile, he arrived while the crabs are about done -- empty-handed. He said there wasn't any good finds. We were halfway through our feast of sea crabs ("lambay"), fish bbq and pague bbqs when a lady selling another type of cooked crabs came along. They were bigger than "lambay" and their outer shell looked a lot sturdier... We asked how much she is selling them for. She replied twenty bucks for three. I looked at our half-finished feast and told Bolo, three is fine. I had my back turned to the lady. So I did not see her hand Bolo three large "necklaces" of crabs. Each "lei" has about ten average-sized crabs. When Bolo laid it in front of me I was stupefied hehehe.

It was really a bad thing we were not able to take any pictures then. It should have been documented how our table was filled with a mountain-like pile of crabs. I guess we were very much intent on the feast that we forgot about taking pictures. Haaay, what a picture it must have made. Haaay too late...

Of course between the four of us -- we urged the driver to eat with us too -- it was close to impossible to consume the whole thing. So we had them packed. They will have to do for dinner.

After our feast, off we went. First stop was the St. Peter and Paul Church of Bantayan which is several centuries old church. It was beautiful. And I've been around and seen lots of old churches already...

St. Peter and Paul Church, Bantayan

The church's door

Stained glass window

The altar.

Upclose

Father and son clowning around with the church in the background

After the church, we proceeded directly to Kota Park in the municipality of Madredejos. It was quite far but I was thankful we chose to go there. On the way, Bolo and Baby slept. I came close to sleeping myself but I was the one holding Baby so...

The walkway at Kota Park

Family picture at Kota Park

The Kota Park

Baby holding on to a pre-war canon missle weighing over a ton. Believe me, Bolo and I tried lifting it to no avail...

Bb: Nanay put me down

After Kota Park, we were eager to go back to the resort to finally take a dip in the sea. It was a humid afternoon and our excursion left us all sweaty and thirsty. Getting back at Bantayan proper, I scouted for an internet cafe so I could email the files to the office. I was lucky to have found one. I managed to catch Candy and Sean over at YM. Couldn't resist teasing them about my being in Bantayan hehehe

We stopped at a nearby Ukay2x before proceeding to the resort. It was fun. We were able to buy Janin some sweater that is Indian inspired - really suitable for Baby's Birhtday party. We found a Tiffany jacket for her too which looked brand new and still in good condition. We were also able to buy Baby some Ralph Lauren Sweats. Really nice.

Off to the beach!!!!

After that it was off the beach for us!!! Truly heavenly :) We just changed into our swimwears and off we went. Baby had some moments in the sand. Bolo and I just enjoyed watching him. I feared he would put a handful of sand in his mouth but he did not. Instead, he enjoyed touching the sand for a full thirty minutes. He languished in it, played with it in his hand... At one point he swam in it... After a while, as most babies do, he did manage to put a handful in his mouth before Bolo and I could prevent it.

It was a treat watching Baby play. Oh well, even when he is asleep, I enjoy the moment just by watching him. It must really be like that for parents. It's as if every nuances of one's baby is heaven-sent designed to be enjoyed and savored...

Baby: Look Nanay, I have sand in my hand...

Baby: Is that the sea out there Nanay? Baby looking much like a beach model hehehe

Baby: I think I'll practice swimming here first Nanay

Baby: Nanay, come and get me. I think I'm now ready for the sea...

Tatay: Hmm... many sand on your head right here..

Finally enjoying the water...

With Ate Juliet. Bb: Nanay, cramps... huhuhu

Playing around with Tatay...

Mother and Son

Nanay: Okay, are your eyes close now? Bb: Hehe you can close them if you want but I ain't closing mine... hehehe

Bb: Tatay, can I sleep on your back?

Family Picture...

Baby: Brr... Nanay, I think I just had my first taste of sea water...Hmm.. make that the second. I just remembered drinking a mouthful over at Samal...

Bb: Tatay, the water tastes salty hehehe

Ah.. Isn't this baby really something?

The water was really nice and the sand is comparable to Boracay's fine white sand... Hmm.. which had me thinking... Maybe our next stop should be Boracay hehehe I just hope more blessings will come in so we will be able to do just that... :)

Night Hunt 2006

2006-10-18T13:26:00.000+08:00

Team AMOC before the race

With Ric

What's this? model for the watch or the drink? :p

Another model for the energy drink... nah, won't do hehehe

Renee...

With Ric who lend us his car for the race... :)

Jay: Black necktie, boxing gloves, Durina Republic T-shirt... Skipping rope, frisbee... meron ako nito lahat sa bahay...

Bolo: Pix sa! :)

Hmm... have to make sure the poor thing's got to have air. Wawa fish :(

Hehehe really cute. The game required us to present a Jollibee crew in complete uniform. So Jay borrowed a neighbor's uniform and we asked Don2x to wear it for us bwahahaha Talk about ingenuity. One team really brought a crew along hehehe and he sat there for like an hour looking like a lost puppy hehehe joke lang po :(

Me: Jigger, check; Live gold fish, check; Superman action figure, check...

Hmm.. is it obvious that Bolo is just doing it for a pose? :p

Jay: Unsa pa ba kulang?

Jay: anong items ang nasa yo Ren? Bolo: Pix sa ta B

Me: Do we have the PROZAC capsule, Ren?
Renee: Nope, I don't have it with me...

With Daryl and Jong2x. See the Porcelain doll I'm holding? it's one of the items for the hunt.

Bolo: Im wearing the PMA Ring needed for the race! hehehe

This poster is one of the items required for us to submit. Haaay. We took a picture of it but no can do. It had to be in poster form.

And the checking begins...
Chicklet: cuff links?
Bolo: B, cufflinks raw..
Me: hmm... it's here somewhere...

Me: Ano yun? He-man Action Figure? Meron na ako rito, Sto. Niño dress, pwedeng ito muna ang i-check?

Samal Adventure

2006-09-10T15:55:00.000+08:00

Been wanting to post that Samal Trip the whole family..err... clan..hehehe.. had a few months back (April) but had been overtaken by work concerns that I totally forgot about it. I've been working real late last night finishing a report that's due today when I came across the pictures and remembered...

Ate and the kids are home for a vacation. And Kuya followed suit when there was just about two more weeks left of their vacation. Quite sadly, he was not allowed a long break from work and so... The affair was a despidida of sorts for them before they went back to UK. It was fun and once again I'm grateful for the fact that we could get to enjoy activities like these now. After all, we cousins are all grown up now. Now, the olds in the family could breathe a lot more easier than when we were still in school and all that. My only regret is that Papa did not live longer to have enjoyed these along with us. But, he was indeed still around when the family started going out and spending overnights at the beach. But enough of that... I'm sure Papa is happy too looking at us from where he is.

Baby Bolo still looked fat in the above picture. Now, quite sadly, he's more leaner and thinner due to teething "problems." He sure looked cute in the above picture :)

WAMOC emerges victor over the other all-female teams during TNF Race

2006-09-09T15:58:00.000+08:00

(Of Self-fulfilment, Adjustment, Love and Commitment)

Err… actually, make that other “team” as there were actually just two all-female team during the race hehehe I could no longer remember who got heard of the race first or who urges whom. All I remember is that one day Renee, Bambie and I all agreed to convene at the football field over at Agro for a night run. We wanted to prepare for the TNF race.

It was exactly a week and a day before the actual race. It could hardly amount to some form of “preparation.” Midway before the race, I was already having some doubts. I mean, who am I kidding? We actually had just.. three days?.. of actual running. And in those three instances, the whole team jogged together just once. It was always just Renee and I since Bambie is either on duty or is resting before her next shift is due. And of course I had to consider the fact that my baby is still way before being a year old. And I had been pregnant only recently, I don’t know the extent with which my body can take any form of physical stress at this stage. Strictly speaking, I still am at the recovery stage. My body is just about getting back to its normal state – after going through the “onslaught” of pregnancy and giving birth. Hehehe how I so love to dramatize things :) By the looks of it, I am recovering along fine. But come to think of it, a race is still a race. As a friend pointed out – I could suffer from a relapse. Bolo’s been discouraging me too especially when he found out the race would fall on a Saturday. He still had work then. It meant he won’t be able to watch over us for the entire duration of the race just like what he and Stephen did during a previous race.

Anyway, it took Renee’s (whom AMOC guys fondly calls “bossing” by the way)…ehem… “stern” inquiry for me to decide that I’m pushing through with the race. What the heck, the guys don’t call Renee “bossing” for no reason at all :) So on August 19, 2006 we raced along with the other 18 teams who participated in the activity.

A few days before the actual race, a briefing was held. That’s when Renee and I found out that there were only two (2) all-women teams. Majority of the teams were all-male. And they were not just male-male. They were really MALE with all the brawn and the browns. They had “real” muscles to speak of and their skin speaks of the number of hours they must have spent under the sun doing their preparation for the race or joining some other races. Some of the faces there were not exactly strangers. They were co-competitors in previous races, 5k runs, kayak race. Some were good friends from mountaineering.

The night before the actual race, the WAMOC team were still trying to complete our uniform for the race. I had to borrow Joan’s AMOC shirt since I no longer could find mine. Bolo had to secure my helmet and bag. Renee and Bambie also had to look for their own helmets. We didn’t even have a chance to meet at all. Each was busy with our respective personal concerns. We were like, just texting each other and agreeing to meet and see each other a few moments before the race officially starts. Huh!

It was good that Sharon – who by the way is about 6 months pregnant – and Jay was able to lend us support. Sharon joked about her “baby” having to wake up real early too so she could drive our official “photographer” (Jay) around. But of course she was more there to lend us support than anything. For the early part of the race, Bolo was able to join us too since the race started early. It bought him some time before he was due for work. He was able to lend us moral support up until the fourth control point (CP). Well, he even scolded me at the first CP when he found me there sans Renee and Bambie who had yet to join me. Renee had trouble going over a fence just before reaching the CP.

CP 1: Stumbling on fetters
Welcome to Checkpoint 1. Your next checkpoint will be at the entrance gate of Palma Gil Elementary School along Quirino Ave. You have to go there ON FOOT with the Prisoners cuffs chained on all three members. You can only detach these cuffs once you have reached the next checkpoint. Good luck and have a nice walk.

CP 2: Welcome to Checkpoint 2. Your next destination is to go near the gate of Thomson Christian School of Davao along Lopez Jaena St., and find your next checkpoint there. However, in proceeding so, you have to push the cart all the way to the next checkpoint with at least one team member riding the cart. You have to follow traffic rules in navigating the streets. Good Luck and have a nice pushing.

CP 3: Welcome to Checkpoint 3. Your team must continue this task of cart pushing all the way to the next checkpoint which is located near the gate of the University of Immaculate Concepcion at Bankerohan Public Market. Good luck!

This part sure did sucks! Hehe Cart pushing with one of us onboard it is no joke, believe me. When we reached Thompson I eyed its surroundings suspiciously. I could not see any carts around. It’s either we’re the first team there (we were so wise we took a short cut) or that we are to continue with the cart pushing. I almost groaned out load when I read the task indicated in the paper strip given to us. It was bad enough that we will have to continue pushing the cart, it was more difficult so if we have to do it at an uphill. UIC is quite a distance from Thompson and most of the way there is on an uphill. Imagine that with a load on. The word, “RELAPSE” sure did crop in my mind not just a few times at this point. Renee and I had been doing the pushing while Bambie sat on the cart. When it was suggested that it was my turn to ride – Renee simply would not do – I thanked my Angels for it. But was soon less thankful afterwards. It was so stressful having to sit there while you think about your poor teammates having to carry your weight. I tried meditating at one point, hoping by some miracle I could levitate to lessen the load. Yeah right! =)

CP 4: Welcome to Checkpoint 4. Leave your cart here and then proceed to the Ferry Boat Terminal near Grand Men Seng Hotel where you will find your next checkpoint. You can proceed by running. Good luck.

We have to run huh? On my way to CP 5 I sort of drifted off and noted how my body is taking it all in. I reflected on how great indeed it is to be a woman. Imagine, our body is engineered such that we are able to “bear” life – nurture it within us from being a simple zygote into a complex, tiny human being who is so full of promise and possibilities. Come to think of it, when a woman is pregnant, she is not just nurturing a human being but a future – the potentialities of which are infinite. Imagine such “power.” Men indeed are instrumental to our being able to conceive and yet, we are the one “bearing” it, nurturing it in order for it to completely develop. And on top of that, being able to participate in other physical pursuits… I’d say, females are in no way the lesser sex.

CP 5: Welcome to Checkpoint 5. You have to cross the river in a ferry boat and proceed to Agro football field along Quimpo Boulevard where you will find your next check point. You can either run or ride after crossing the river.

CP 6: Welcome to Checkpoint 6.

It was a pleasant surprise to see a familiar face manning the sixth CP. It was no other than Joan – fellow WAMOC – whom we found at the post. She pointed out that her shirt fitted me just fine since I had previously voiced out a concern that it might not fit given the extra “baby” fats I’ve gained.

The task in this CP required us to come up with a slingshot which we will have to use in hitting bottles lined up along the river dike. Bambie and I both took a shot at it. I took aim, stretched the rubber and whispered a prayer. I invoked God to be my wings, which more appropriately should have been the pebble’s wing as it would do the flying and not me. Nonetheless, God must have listened more to my intention than to what I had uttered since I downed the target at one try. Jay, and all of us all yelped triumphantly and proceeded with the race. The next control point was somewhere at the back of SM which is quite at a distance from where we are. But having hit the target at first try sure did lift our spirits.

CP 7: Welcome to Checkpoint 7. Your cp task is to be able to fly a paper plane from a certain distance that will pass through a region specified by the CP marshal. After completing the task, you can proceed to the fruit stand outside Magsaysay Park either by riding or running. You are going to find a vendor named, Neneng who will give you the next due of the race.

This may sound easy but believe me, it took us quite a while to let the plane drift to where it’s supposed to go. At one point I asked the marshal if it’s okay if I insert a pebble inside the plane to which he smilingly told me I had to find other ways :) Well, it’s ingenuity isn’t it? What I thought of? Hehehe And I did ask permission as I had no intention of cheating.

Since SM is quite a long, long way from Magsaysay, we decided to surrender our second pass and chose to ride our way there after we completed the task. We used our first pass over at the fourth CP.

CP 8: Welcome to Checkpoint 8. You must eat the durian fruit given to you by the vendor before you can proceed to the next checkpoint station. The next checkpoint is located near the gate of San Pedro College along De Guzman St. You can proceed either by running or riding.

Ah, durian eating was no task hehe It was actually a reward :) Sharon who looked out from the window of her car shouted at the marshal if she could eat in lieu of Bambie who does not quite get “nose-to-nose” with durian. The durian given us sure did taste heavenly. It was a pity we had to gobble it up instead of just simply savoring it. It was really delicious. If I remember it right, it was of the native variety. One that was heavenly sweet, tasty and fleshy.

CP 9: Welcome to Checkpoint 9. Before you can leave this checkpoint, you are to assemble your team flag and carry it with you all the way to the finish line. Your next checkpoint is at the entrance gate of the Davao Medical School Foundation. You can proceed there either by running or riding.
We thought there would still be more difficult tasks up ahead and so we held on to our third and last pass and decided to run all the way to the next CP. If a rappelling figures in one of the tasks ahead, a pass could be useful then. Especially when several teams could be queuing for it. It could buy us time, not to mention buy us salvation in reference to my fear of heights hehe But surprisingly, I had come prepared for the race. I knew rappelling would not faze me then should the race require me to do so.

CP 10: Welcome to Checkpoint 10.

Ah, this point proved quite a drag. Who would have thought it is difficult to shoot a bottle crown inside a trash bin located a few paces from where we’re standing. It sure did take me a while before I managed to shoot one. When we did, off we went to the next CP which was at San Pedro Memorial Park. Again, we opted to save our pass here and decided to run all the way there.

We were rounding our first corner when Manong Rudy and Dax, who organized the whole thing overtook us and took pictures of us. It was fun knowing a newspaper guy was taking our pictures :) For a moment, we subjected ourselves to Mang Rudy’s “posing instructions.”

CP 11: Welcome to Checkpoint 11. You can proceed immediately near the gate of Davao Doctors College along Gen. Malvar St. either by running or riding.

Again, we held on to our pass. Only to arrive at CP 11 and find out we were down to our last CP. And we are prohibited to use our pass as we are instructed to run all the way there. There was no rappelling or any other more challenging task. It was a beginner’s race alright but still, not for the weak-kneed as the distances between CP’s is still quite something to contend with.

CP 12: Welcome to Checkpoint 12. Run and hail your team flag towards the finish line located at Holiday Spa along F. Torres St. You are no longer allowed to ride.

When we reached the last CP, we were still required to compose the jigsaw puzzle that was made up of all the “keys” we gathered from each CP as we completed each task. Our clock did not stop running until we completed the puzzle.

All in all we clocked in a little more than 3 hours which was not exactly bad. Still we ranked 11th from all the 18 teams. When the later teams composed of all male or two-male-one-female member arrived one by one at the finish line to complete their puzzle, Patrick who was already able to join us then consoled us by saying in mock awe how we proved to be stronger than they are hehehe The second all-female team arrived last and won the “turtle of race” award.

But we did not need any consoling. It was a fun race. And we sure did have lots of fun. We knew there was no way we could rank among the top three by just looking at the rest of the teams. The top rank, by the way, was bagged by an all-male-team (all top 10 were all-male teams?) composed of runners and tri-athletes. They clocked in 1 hour and 30 minutes. How they did that, we can’t quite figure it out :) They sure was fast! Majority of the CPs were situated at some distance from each other. All those running about sure must have helped them a great deal.

Ah, as for me and my “competing” attitude, it was a first for me to have joined a race just for the heck of it and it proved to be totally enjoyable. First, gone was the pressure that the thought of winning could weigh down on you. It made me “savored” the race more, really experiencing each and every point of it in its totality as there was no pressure to distract me. It sure was fun and I’m truly grateful that I came out of it physically well and spiritually lifted. My sense of accomplishment then was definitely at a high. To have done all that in such a short time from the time I was pregnant and have given birth and all that. It amused me to think that only a few months back I had mused about my being “inactive” and totally grounded. At that time, being tied down with the responsibilities of motherhood and wifehood, I was not able to partake of my usual physical pursuits. Apparently, I’m now back in action hehehe And am truly enjoying it and am truly grateful for it.

Bolo's joining us during the lunch treat and awarding ceremony completed the experience for me. He texted Renee whether his “bb” is still with them. I was munching on my third slice of watermelon when she got his text. I was feasting on fruits then as the only viand I could eat was the onion rings – the sole “vegetarian” dish in an array of all-meat dishes. Ah well, the fruit salad – the homemade kind made up of cubed mango, watermelon, banana, papaya, etc swimming in milk concoction – sure made it up for me. And I was really more thirsty than hungry at that time.

When our team got to receive our finishers’ certificates and other tokens, Bolo was already sitting with the rest of the Fil-Chi group waiting for me to finish so he could drive me home. Our little one, after all, is waiting. He laughed along with the crowd when Dax jokingly slid next to me during the photo op and loudly asked the group if Bolo would mind.

On our way home, he engaged me in a hug while he was driving, taking his eyes momentarily off the road. I knew that without his having to express it, he knew how the experience had made me happy and self-fulfilled and that he was happy for me too. The spell was broken only when he remarked I smelt of sun and sweat! Huh! But I knew that he loved me still anyway, sweat and all. In the best way he knew how.

Ah B, just the fact that you’re happy in knowing that I’m happy is enough to make me feel really fulfilled – in more ways than participating in a race or finishing a winning proposal at work could make me feel. It hits a cord somewhere in my heartstrings every time I acknowledge that you genuinely wish for my happiness and that you are willing to support me in whatever I get myself into, just so I could achieve that. We might be having some issues lately, given the ghosts from your past and my inability to address it unselfishly – but there are moments like this that proved to be like a rainbow after a heavy storm. I know deep down, we love each other genuinely. There’s no doubt about that. We just have certain issues – from your childhood past and maybe from mine too – that we need to work out together so we could both emerge from them grown and better persons. Let’s pray for clarity of thought and the cleanest of intentions. May we both clearly remember and uphold what must be our “sacred contract” for each other. May – as it had always proved to be – our love for each other prevail time and again. I love you.

My First Urban Adventure Race - The Hobbits

2006-08-17T15:59:00.000+08:00

In view of the upcoming race I'm participating in again this coming Saturday, I am made to remember of the first race I took part in. This coming Saturday's race is in lined with the Kadayawan festivities the city is celebrating this week. My first race was in view of an "Araw ng Dabaw" celebration. Hmm.. what year was that?

The picture on the left is taken before the race started. With me were my co-teammates then -- Melai and Anne. At the background is Pastor who was still Anne's boyfriend then hehe. How time flies, Pastor now is a national hero of sorts, Melai is now in the States and Anne is now married to Pastor whom she share two sons with. As for me, I'm now married to Bolo who was a marshall of this race then and share a son with him. Funny how life could really turn out to be at times :)

It was a fun race. We placed third over-all which is not a bad thing for a first time. Some of those who knew us kept of teasing us that there were probably just three teams thus we placed third :p Yeah right!

Legazpi City!

2006-08-16T15:41:00.000+08:00

After year of being grounded, B and I, finally was able to go to a trip together. Ah, with Bb Bullets in tow of course :) So in the afternoon of our anniversary, we packed our bags and headed to the airport.

Sleeping Baby at the airport . Taken just hours before our flight to Manila. Our flight was delayed so we practically sat in the airport for hours.

The anniversary thing was a blur altogether. We went to hear Mass at the Shrine and headed home to continue with our packing. The night before that, on the eve of the day itself, we spent it packing and arguing hehehe as to what to bring, etc. B had some red wine ready and some chips to sort of celebrate the eve of the day, but we ended up too exhausted to bother celebrating. We had realized one thing though, it really is tough to go traveling with a baby. Lots of things had to be considered. And, packed! We had to pack along his sterilizer, a mini electric thermos (in-case the hotel won't have any), and a bunch of clothes that would answer his any need – jackets, pajamas, and socks should it be cold and aircool sando’s and shorts should it be warm! Haaay! Hehehe Although we knew that we would have a need for it, we left his stroller home. As it is, we were already pretty much overwhelmed with the amount of luggage we had.

At the centenial airport waiting for our plane to Legazpi. (Hmm... ano to? Capital and small letter B? hehehe carbon copy eh no?)

The entire B family hehehe

We went to Legazpi. To see Mayon with our own two eyes hehehe Actually, I was on a business trip. I had work there. And since I would be gone for quite a while, it was of no question that Baby should tag along too. We could not imagine what his being apart from me could do to him. Although it would entail quite a huge amount, we were willing to spend it. We did think about it a lot though. In the end, B and I both agreed we are both investing on Baby’s emotional well-being. We could not subject him to a sudden separation from me, considering that he’s still breastfeeding and all. So off we went to Legazpi.

A view from the plane. Mt. Mayon's "blowing" chimney peak amidst the clouds.

Ah. Majestic Mt. Mayon

What greeted us when we’re about to land was magnificent, beautiful Mt. Mayon in all her morning glory. She stood there, welcoming us, standing erect as if to show us how formidable she is. She was simply awesome. I will always be loyal to Mt. Apo as she is my first love but Mt. Mayon was breath-taking just the same. If Apo’s strength is evident upon first glance, Mayon exudes femininity and grace when I first caught a glimpse of her. I considered it a good sign that she showed herself to us that day. We were told beforehand that she would usually “hide” herself from visitors.

Landing finally at Legazpi

After a week of working in the mornings and breastfeeding baby at night, we finally managed to go around Albay. As expected, we went to Cagsawa Ruins. It was such a pity that Mayon did not show herself to us at that time. She was partly covered in clouds. But once in a while the clouds would disappear and we would see her in all her glory. But soon enough, she’ll be covered again thus not allowing us to take any decent pictures of her in her totality. But it was fun just the same. At one point though, a guide kid there pointed to us the trickle of mudflow from Mayon’s peak. It pretty much looked like the size of a highway to us, traversing down Mayon’s slopes. The kid informed us that while it looked quite a “slow” trickle from where we are standing, in actuality, the mudflow is really descending at such a high speed. Huh! For a moment I almost wished that she would display a bit of her “fire” just as she had in one of the pictures the kid had showed us of the 1993 eruption. She might have heard me since back at the hotel, we were surprised and at the same time delighted by the “fireworks” that’s going on at her peak. We could see fiery lava trickling down from the peak. It was an awesome and exciting display. At one point I wanted to wish it will continue but immediately grew sober when I thought about the families that would be affected if indeed she would explode. It would have been a sight to behold but I’m willing to pass that up. Especially when a local informed us that the flights will be cancelled should Mayon erupt. Huh! We can’t have that.

The famous Cagsawa Ruins . With Juliet and Te Jean F.

The Three B's

Mayon in the backdrop

We also went to the Satellite Market where most of Bicol’s native products and delicacies (Pili nuts! Yum!) are showcased. The bags were great but B gave me a horrified look when I tried to purchase one for Mama. He said we could not possibly add more to our luggage.

Beautiful Daraga Church!

Ah, nice shot this one.

Ah, Father and Son :)

I particularly enjoyed our visit to the Daraga Church. It was old and beautiful. We almost passed it up and I’m glad Ms. Minda noticed it and we stopped. It was worth making a time for it. We also went to Bicol University, toured it a bit. We toured around Albay too and at Brgy. Estanza which provided us a good view of Mt. Mayon and the entire Legazpi City and gulf.

It was a fun trip, albeit a tiring one, having to mind Baby constantly. But his smiling face sure did make the trip special. It was his smile that erased all my exhaustions away.

Asus! Our "energizer" for the entire trip :)

Banawe, Batad, Sagada Adventure Recall

2005-08-12T11:57:00.000+08:00

Famous Banawe Rice Terraces at the Viewpoint in Banawe proper.

Beautiful, isn't it?

The headhunters! :)

Banawe.

A house right below our room's balcony.

Hanging Bridge at Banawe PoblacionTaken from the balcony of our room.

Whew! Breathtaking Batad Rice Terraces. Imagine beholding this scene after a long, long trek? Definitely worth the trip! Really one of our "hidden" treasure.

Batad at a closer look.

Closer still.

At another angle

Batad huts at a closer look. Nice angle.

Tapia Falls. The falls at a distance.

Beautiful Tappia Falls.

Tapia Falls Upclose. Really strong and majestic.

The Greatest Adventure of a Lifetime =)

2005-07-25T13:17:00.000+08:00

An adventure of another sort alright.

The trail

The Destination? Nah, just one of the giveaways =)

Peak for that day Now this was the destination that day =)Nice altar huh? Lucky, Fr. Lord's a mountaineer and a friend thus the option to hold the wedding at St. Francis was made open to us.

One of WAMOC Weds. O, guys, you look cute naman pala in a formal wear sans the hiking shoes, backpacks and mountaineering gears! =) Thanks for sharing again this adventure with us guys. Esp. to you Zette, for coming all the way from Cebu. Miss you =)

Hey, family and friends, please view my other blog for some more pictures. Will be posting most of the pix at my reflection blog. Have yet to find the time though :) Hopefully, maisingit ko on top of my work obligations! :)

26th MFPI Congress (Still Under Construction)

2005-04-14T14:33:00.000+08:00

Mt. Malindang
Ozamis, Misamis Occidental
April 1-9,2005

This is the longest trip ever. Not just in the "geographical" sense since Ozamis is a good 13 to 14 hours away from Davao by bus, but also because we spent a total of 8 days all-in-all for this trip. Why eight days? Since we took some sidetrips also while at it. In fact, the "sidetrips" came first than participating in the Congress itself. Eight days! Until now I'm still "reeling" from the experience. But it was fun. As usual, it was a fun-filled, activity-filled, adventure-filled eight days. It was tiring but a pretty complete trip all the same.

With the sidetrips (yup! sidetrip"s"!) in mind, we left for Cagayan early -- in the eve of April 1 which is a Friday. The Congress is due to start on the Tuesday yet, with Wednesday being the climbing proper. So we were really a few days ahead.

On the bus bound for Cagayan de Oro City. Actually, Joan was not with us. She wanted to come though but she could not take a leave at work.

Arriving in Cagayan. Stuck at the Bus terminal waiting for Jay who was coming in from Cebu. He had to attend a seminar there so we agreed to meet in Cagayan to go together to Ozamis.

Vin Deisel Edoc Boarding the Ferry at Mukas

Choy2x and Renee too!

Owners of the Ferry on Board. (See Bolo and Myself at the Upper deck, left-side.)

Inside the ferry. See how Edoc is on the phone? He is constantly at it during the entire trip. Tsk, tsk. Had to report to Joan constantly hehehe.

Crossing Pangil Bay, Arriving in Ozamis.

Asus! Jack and Rose?!?

Finally, Ozamis!!!! On Board our Limousine! This "sturdy" tricycle will take us all the way to Sinacaban, a munisipyo all the way out of Ozamis City. Quite far huh? But we managed it just the same. Trcicycles such as this one had been our constant transpo and means of getting around the city during our stay there.

Sidetrip 1: Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park (MOAP)Zoo and Sanctuary

Arriving in MOAP and starting our "trek" towards the facility's restaurant. All the travelling left us real hungry!

Posing some more with Allan,Edoc's cousin who works at MOAP.

Ano yan Choy, shell na lang o me laman pa? hehe

Renee's turn to pose.& The resto is that white tent in the backgroundnbsp;

Finally, Lunch!!!!
Bolo: Cge, picture sa mo dira, kaon sa ko. Gutom na kaayo ba. Lami kaya ning kinilaw sa Ozamis? Hehe

Now, exploring the facility after lunch! "Ay, bawal bang umakyat sa "boat" mismo? Cge, dito na lang kami sa gilid magpose" :)

Exploring the Zoo at MOAP. Sinong banog dito? yung nakahawla o yung nakatayo katabi nung sign? hehe

Ay, eto ba yung banog? Hehe joke lang B :)

O, ano yang sinisilip nyo jan?

O, rest muna :)

Last look and pose at the MOAP's entrance while waiting for the bus that would take us back to Ozamis. Have yet to check-out the basecamp for the Congress.

Settling down in Naomi's Botanical Garden

Ok ka lang B? Nasobrahan ka ata kain nung kinilaw sa MOAP :) Bolo gamely riding at the front end of the tricycle on our way to Naomi's Botanical Garden. Someone had to keep the tricycle's balance since the road to the venue is on an uphill.

Setting up camp. We were the first ones to have arrived at the basecamp. Having chosen our spot, we immediately set up camp.

Helping each other out.

Naomi's Botanical at night.

Day 2: Sidetrip2 - Rizal Shrine in Dapitan

2005-04-14T13:36:00.001+08:00

Waiting for our ride. Very early, and without breakfast yet, we went to the Bus Terminal in Ozamis in the hopes of catching our ride for Dapitan. We had 2 items in the itinerary that day -- Rizal Shrine and Dakak!

Hiring our own van. We were having our breakfast while waiting for the aircon bus for Dapitan when a driver of a van for hire offered to take there instead. We haggled that we'd take him if he'd take us all the way to Dakak right after our visit to Rizal Shrine. He agreed. Hmm... I forgot how the price we settled on. Was it 800 0r 1000 bucks?

A view of the Mt. Malindang Range We won't be climbing her till Tuesday yet she looked real imposing already. Little did we knew that we're up against a very looooong, very tiring trek....

At the Shrine!!! Rizal's House. Actually just a replica of Rizal's house where he stayed during his exile in Dapitan.

Team Bolo. hehehe

Going Up the House. This is the landing that leads directly to Rizal's ba?o. At its right is the house's main balcony and door that leads to the interiors of the house

At the balcony. The smoky effect here was brought about by some elderly women, who might be in-charge with the maintenance of the shire, who are doing some sweeping and burning of some dried leaves.

Inside the House, at the Balcony

Magkagalit ba tayo nun B? =)

Ah, hindi naman pala...

Bolo:B, kamukha ko ba si Rizal?

Rizal's Kitchen.

The Tree este, the Two =) This tree was supposed to be there already during Rizal's time in Dapitan. Imagine how old this tree already is. More than a hundred years old...

Renee on a Rock. This rock looks out to the sea and is said to be where Rizal and his paramour 'Becket (Am I right at all?) share their afternoon talks.

The Three Muskeeters

Matangkad pa pala sa yo si Rizal B no?

Kahit nga pala si Choy2x, di umabot hehehe

Sidetrip 3: Dakak!!! (For uploading)

2005-04-14T13:35:00.001+08:00

Ah finally, Dakak!

Congress Proper!!! The Mighty Ones: Group 2! Hehehe (For uploading)

Whew! 1st Stop Over. It had been a long trek till we got there. And just before this point, the trail had really been so tiring -- the kind wherein your knees would meet you jaw for every step you take. So don't be quite surprised for the drooping shoulders in this pic hehehe

Our last bridge!!!! Bolo and Stephen resting a bit, momentarily relieved we are finally on our last bridge for that trek.

Yehey! We're going home finally!

Basecamp Activity: Adventure Race!

2005-04-14T13:12:00.000+08:00

April 9, 2005
Covering 26 Control Points

Team Amoc 2 One of the two (2) teams to beat! hehe

The Preparation. Stephen: Streeeetch...; Myself: Hmm... better straighten out the cyclings hehe; Choy2x: Better fix the shoes first!

Renee: Hehe okay na ni na prepare oi. Rest muna bago takbo! hehe

Race briefing. Bolo, myself, Jay, Renee, Choy2x and Stephen -- Team AMOC 1 and 2.

All the racers.

Let the race begin! On our way to CP 1. Had we worked on the codes of our passport first, we could have figured out that we were allowed to hire a ride at this part of the race. Tsk, tsk as they say, "Only fools rush in!" I was already halfway to CP 1, all tired and sweaty from the heat and the distance we have covered when I finally figured the codes out. Imagine my dismay!

It did not help that Bolo is quite irritating at this point in the race. I was still warming up to the race and being dead tired from the loooooong trek the previous days, I had a hard time pacing myself. The heat and the distance kept me from finding my rythm. And I had the codes insistently on my mind. I knew it meant something that might give us some shortcuts. And how right I was. But there he was, Bolo, kept urging me on, wanting me to run faster than I was barely managing. He kept on reminding me that I run a lot faster when I'm doing my rounds at the PTA back home.

The heat and my tiredness and his insistent prodding was starting to rub me raw. Had not my usual common sense prevailed, I had already been eyeing some of the pebbles that were littered a long the way. I was wondering whether they would make a nice sound if they would hit Bolo in the head hehehe Stephen's presence helped though. He was sensitive enough to know I was still getting my bearings. He told me to just pace myself. He knew me well enough to know I'd be getting my stride soon.

Team AMOC 1: The cute ones hehe. Race ba ito o photo shoot? =)

Two Teams. First two teams to have arrived at CP 15.

The Convergence. Teams converging at CP 15 where we had to wait for our turn at "stenciling" the park's monument marker.

Finally, our turn! Team AMOC 2 taking their turn at stenciling.

Team AMOC 1's turn at it! O! What are these redhorse bottles doing in this CP? Are the racers supposed to drink a glassful before moving on?!?

The Champions of the race. Benjie, Ploy2x and Jay Mani looking momentarily dazed and confused while looking at us running at the opposite side of the road.

Me to Stephen: Okay na Phen? Tama lagi no? Diri na direction? Sina Yoks, naa na o!

Bolo to Stephen: Sa Dunkin ba to bai? Dili ba to Greenwich?

Stephen: Dagan lang Rods, hinay2x sa ko lakaw. Naa lang man daw sa unahan ang LBC.

Stephen to Bolo: Bai, dapat ing-ani atong strategy Bai para mapildi nato sila...

The couple. Tsk, tsk, kaya talo bah! =)

Me: Phen, ask daw ng babae kung diri ba gyud ang CP;
Stephen: Miss... miss...;
Kid:Huh?! Kinsa ni siya? Gwapa lagi kaayo (hehehe)

Ms. LBC: Punta ka dito na CP then balik ka dito na CP;
Stephen:Ah ok.

At CP 20? Team Amoc 1 take its last picture before returning back to base =).

Let's go back to basecamp then and finish the race.

On our way back to basecamp.

End of the race.

Socials! Socials! (Pictures yet to be uploaded)

Day 8 (April 10, Sunday): On Our Way Home!

The Edge "Team" and Friends. A few last pictures before going home.

The AMOC. Myself, Jay, Renee, Choy2x, Edoc and Stephen

Few last moments in Ozamis soil. At the passenger terminal just before boarding the ferry that would take us across Pangil Bay on our way back home.

On board the ferry. Crouching: Dexter and Dong; Seated: Benjie, Myself, Bolo, Jay, Stephen, Renee, Edoc, Ceasar and Fr. Yoks (hehe); Standing: Jay Mani, Some friends, Rey.

O, wag malungkot Jay! Bakit, may iniwan ka ba sa Ozamis? hehe Shown at the background is the little hill called "Bugacan" which is the location of the CP 1 of the adventure race the day before. Hmm... so that is why running all the way there left us all quite breathless. It was quite an uphill.

One Last look at Malindang.

We had a moment of indecision upon reaching the terminal in Cagayan de Oro. The lone aircon bus there could only accomodate 2 more passengers and there were a whole bunch of us. The next available bus is non-aircon which was quite empty and could easily accomodate all of us. Some were quite willing to take the non-aircon bus yet there were also some who preferred a more comfortable and speedier ride. Non-aircon meant numerous stopovers and those who already had work on their minds the next day, wanted to have less of those stopovers as possible. The sooner we get home, meant the sooner we will be able to rest, in time for work the next day.

With Ploy2x's help, we managed to request a "special" aircon trip for us. And at a discounted rate yet. From the expected P 450.00 fare, we had it down to P 375.00. Imagine that! It made me wish ruefully that I had bought an extra box of Pastel back at "Vjandep's," had I only known it =). I'm sure I wasn't the only one thinking of it.

Finally, on the bus bound for Davao. Allan and Dexter; Benny, Ann2x, Ceasar, Rey (barely shown); Myself, Renee, Ploy2x, Dong, Edoc, and Jay.

With the Driver and Security this time. The "entire" Davao delegates: Jay Mani, Jan2x, Allan, Dexter,Benny, Ann2x, Ceasar, Jay, Rey, Danny, Myself, Renee, Edoc, Benjie, Ploy2x, Bolo and Dong.

We were already outside of CDO downtown and on our way up when we encountered some mechanical problems. We had to wait for some time until the driver of the bus was able to fix the problem. It was an unwelcome delay for most of us but we took advantage of it by going out of the bus to do some stretching and walking about. And of course, some picture taking too =).

Waiting till the driver fix the problem of the bus. In this photo: (Front, from left) Ploy2x, Edoc, Jay Mani, Ceasar, Myself and Allan; (Back) Benjie, Rey, Jan2x, Benny, Ann2x, Digong, Jay, and Danny; (On the "ledge") Bolo, Dexter and Choy2x; (Farthest) Dong.

On our way again. Having fixed the problem with the aircon, we again boarded the bus and went on our way. Rey and Allan in this picture have yet to board the bus. On the bus, Renee is the one making faces by the window. I sat infront of her.

Tinuy-An Waterfalls and Enchanted River

2005-03-30T03:29:00.000+08:00

\surHoly Week 2005
Tinuy-an Waterfalls (Bislig, Surigao del Sur)
Enchanted River (Hinatuan, Surigao Del Sur)
March 24-26, 2005

Even the night before we were to leave for Surigao, the group actually was still not decided as to where to go for the long weekend. The choices had been Mt. Parker (South Cotabato), Mt. Dulang-dulang (Bukidnon), Mt. Apo (New Israel trail), and finally, Surigao. Also, a lot of the details already worked out the day before did not materialize. Our expected ride -- a friend's elf we are supposed to rent for the activity -- backed out. With this, the others in the group also backed out. So there were only eight of us left -- Renee, Bambie, Joan, Myself, Jay, Choy2x, Bolo and Zoe.

Actually, I understood the other's change of heart. The uncertainty of the situation is hardly encouraging for any of us. I was having second thoughts myself. But I was really glad that I decided to push through with the trip. From past experiences, I knew that despite the seeming "nothing-is-ever-clear-with-this-trip," everything will just sort itself out. After all, we are not kids anymore. The important thing is that we knew were we want to go and how to get there. Well, somewhat... hehe

Sleepless in Ecoland Terminal

By 12:00 Midnight, we had already assembled at the Ecoland Overland Terminal for the 2:00 A.M. trip to Mangagoy, Bislig, Surigao del Sur. We did not want to take any chances. We knew it is the Holy Week so there's bound to be a lot of passengers.

We were right. There were indeed a lot of them, it made me think half of Davao is on their way to Mangagoy. There were other buses there bound for Butuan, Ormoc, Mati, etc., etc. but most of them leave without having their doors literally bursting from having a lot of passengers taking the trip. With the Mangagoy trips, passengers had to shove, claw, push, fight their way just to be able to board the bus. So while we were there real early, we were not able to board the bus till 4:00 A.M. in the morning. So we practically spent the whole night, sleepless.

We had tried to hire a van but noone would take the risk. They informed us that the frequent rain the previous days made the roads to Mangagoy hardly passable for vans. So there we were, wanting some sleep, trying our best to board every bus that come but desperately failing (some of the passengers wisely board the bus outside of their garage in Ma-a and so the buses are practically full by the time they get to Ecoland). We just amused ourselves with looking at the moon which was at its "almost" full stage and by talking about how sleepy we were already. All of us were voicing out that had we known it, we should have just slept at home and went to the terminal before 4 A.M. I was lucky I had a book with me -- The Da Vinci Code -- so I had that to occupy my time. Nevertheless, I felt a great boredome too at having to wait for the bus.

"Almost" Full moon.Gazing at this near perfect moon at intervals helped us in whiling the time away

The Blurry Effect.Waiting for the bus. Guess this photo just reflects our mood at that time -- just about to doze off at the drop of a hat =)

Bambie:Hmm... Wala bang pwedeng matulugan dito?

Zoe:Sakay na lang kaya tayo ng bus bound for Tacloban? It's empty.

Arriving in Mangagoy

Finally, with most of the passengers already gone, we were able to board the 4:00 AM bus for Mangagoy. As there were only a few of us left, we were all able to sit quite comfortably. The instant our backsides hit the seats, we were all off to dreamland.

We were already in Mauab, Compostela Valley when I woke up. Kidney trouble rouse me from my slumber. The most unfortunate part is that we are not stopping at the terminal long enough for me to answer nature's call. So I had to endure it till we reached the next town of Nabunturan. Even then, I had to rush since the bus was intent about leaving immediately. Back at the bus, to delay our hunger, we munched on some dried mangoes and biscuits.

We arrived in Mangagoy at 9:00 in the morning. Making a mistake of not stopping at the shell station to get our ride for Tinuy-an, we had to double our way back. We hitched our ride back to the station.

Hitching a Ride. On the way to Shell Station where we are hoping to get a ride for Tinuy-an

We talked to the driver of our ride if we would agree to take us all the way to Tinuy-an Waterfalls. He agreed but later on changed his mind. So we opted to have some decent breakfast instead, then look for a jeep while the others see about buying the supplies we still need.

Waiting for our ride, munching on popsicles

Finally, breakfast! (at G-mart's)

After breakfast, Bolo and Jolo proceeded to look for a jeep we could hire that would take us to the falls. We were also hoping that the same would agree to take us all the way to Hinatuan later that afternoon. Meanwhile, Bambie, Renee and I went about buying groceries and some supplies we still needed for our food. We were not through yet with the groceries when Joan and Bolo arrived with the jeep. While we continued with our buying, the rest hauled our bags to the jeep.

All packed and ready to go.

Me: Are we all here yet?
Bolo: Why? Are we going already? Yehey!!!

On our Way to Tinuy-an!!!

We had to look for Zoe momentarily when he suddenly disappeared while we were all getting ready to go. He turned out to be buying some shampoo at G-mart's pharmacy. When he finally arrived, everyone almost cheered, obviously very eager to move on.

We made a brief stopover at the market to buy some ground beef for the spaghetti we planned of having for dinner that night. Choy2x and Bolo, however, made a quick visit to a nearby Ukay2x and came back with a very nice longsleeved Roxy sweats for me and Columbia Jacket for Renee hehe. Talk about being lucky.

Then, we were finally off to Tinuy-an. Just as its name implies -- "tinuyuan," meaning "to seek out" in Visayan -- we literally had to travel some distance to get to the falls. But it was all worth it. We passed by some interesting view -- rice fields and interesting looking trees boardering the road, a lake, and a local doing some bit of "transporting" "logs."

Rice fields and trees in the horizon

Local kids fishing at the lake

This photo below have some interesting trivia to go with it. It was too late when we spotted this interesting "scene." We had already passed by it to get a decent shot. And then, out of nowhere, another local in the same "form" can be seen approaching us. Still,it was also too late for us to take a picture. Bolo had to really run just to overtake this man and take his picture.

Station of the Cross.(Bislig style)

Ahh... the waterfalls

We suffered from a flat tire so we had to wait before our driver was able to change tire. It wasn't such a long delay but a delay just the same. Then, suddenly, there she was -- beautiful, majestic Tinuy-an waterfalls. She was pretty awesome to look at. For Joan and I, it wasn't our first time to see the falls but we were still awed by it. As for the rest, they were dumbstruck! =) I could understand. I knew by looking at their faces that all the delays we had to suffer last night and this morning were instantly forgotten.

Tinuy-an Waterfalls

The Procession. Bolo, Joan, Jay, Bambie and Renee (at the right side of the photo)making their way towards the falls.

At another angle.

Mighty Tinuy-an!See Joan, Jay and Bolo at the lower right corner of the photo, giving perspective as to the size of the waterfall

Not just "mighty" but "strong" too! The waterfalls upclose

Ahh... Breathtaking Tinuy-an...

Picture Taking!

Welcome to Tinuy-an!!!

Gary a.k.a. Choy2x

Renee

Zoe

Bolo

Asus! =)

Otro! =)

Up to the Second Floor

Not quite satisfied with just looking at the waterfalls upclose, we took the advice of the caretaker there to climb the stairs that would take us all the way up. We were glad we did since we were able to view the other drops of the falls too, upclose. (See Bolo's photo below.)

(Me)Climbing the stairs...

From the top looking down.(Phto credit: Choy2x)

Nice view at the top.

Really nice. (Photo credit: Choy2x)

Bolo at the top.

Model Renee. =)

The Edge. Nope, not the outdoor shop hehe Choy2x bravely sitting on the edge of the falls.

Kiss my ****! The guys in a playful pose. O, Jay, where's your head? =)

Bah!

The Bodies! hehehe

Now, who's macho?! =)

Going back down.

Taking a Break Having some snacks and resting a bit before moving on with our journey

Enchanted River!!!

2005-03-30T02:50:00.000+08:00

Next Destination: Enchanted River, Hinatuan!!!

Off we go again...Moving on to Hinatuan!

Who's who? "Alin, alin, alin ang naiba? Sabihin kung alin ang naiba? Sabihin, sabihin, sabihin kung alin. Sabihin kung alin ang naiba!" (You singing along? hehe)

Hmm... as if the difficulty in boarding the bus and encountering a flat tire is not enough, we were already very near Hinatuan proper when we encountered a broken bridge at Brgy. Bigaan. It was such a situation. It made us reconsider our decision to go all the way to Hinatuan. We were toying with the idea of going to Lingig instead. But considering we are already very near Hinatuan, we opted to proceed as planned. I'm truly glad we did. Know why? Since enchanted river was definitely worth visiting!

Settling for the night

We crossed the broken bridge on foot then hired a "habal-habal" that would take us to Hinatuan proper. In the end, we had the habal-habal take us all the way to Brgy. Talisay where the enchanted river is to be found.

We created quite a stir when we arrived at the Barangay Town Hall there. We became an instant celebrity. Kids and some people flocked to the hall just to gape at us. Really! They were probably wondering what we were all doing there. To begin with, it was already dark when we got there. And our insistence to spend the night and camp by the river had them look at us quite weirdly. At one point, they even told us they thought we were casts of "Spirits" Haha! Since some of them were in the area just the past week. Really funny. In my mind I was thinking we hardly qualify for being celebrities. "Maligno's," most probably hehe.

In the end, we opted to stay at the "Sanctuary Center" of the barangay. It was a good decision. Once settled there, we then proceeded to prepare for dinner and pitched our tents.

Cooking dinner. Preparing our dinner: Spaghetti -- Spaghetti ala Tuna Spicyca (hehe) and Spaghetti con carne =) it had to be two of a kind for the meat eaters in the group and for Bolo and me.

Nope, not a serial killer. Bambie yielding a bolo with Ani, preparing the spices for the spaghetti.

Now, the real "Bolo" hehe Blow bolo blow! Our rice expert Bolo, making use of the facility's dirty kitchen to cook our rice for dinner. And he was a true expert. Rice that night was perfect! Thank you B! =)

Dinner! Looking really tired already. Left: Joan, Bambie, Zoe and Jay; Center: Choy2x; Right: Renee and Bolo

A home inside a house. Getting ready to sleep for the night. It had been a long day

Another Day Dawns (Some Great Sunrise Shots)

The incontenence I'm suffering from proved a blessing that day. It woke me up in time for the sunrise. And it was a beautiful sunrise. What could be more perfect than beholding a sunrise out at sea?

Ah... Sunrise. The log in my camera reads, 6:15 A.M.

Casting a soft glow all around...

The sun is up

Off to work.Lone boatman in the horizon, on his way for his first catch of the day

The guardhouse of the sanctuary

Early risers. Spied this kids playing at an adjacent house.

Family Portrait. Meet the "Mimings" hehe. Cute kittens in the sanctuary.(Photo credit: Choy2x).

These kittens are so playful they woke us up quite frequently in the middle of the night by suddenly jumping at our tents or playfully scratching our tents or playing with the zippers...

The Feast

One highlight of the trip also was the "foodfest" we enjoyed in Hinatuan. Seafood was cheap. With Zoe and Jay in-charged with the marketing, they came back with quite a handful of delights -- giant squid, giant lapu-lapu's and really huge crabs. Yum! It was a feast alright!

Giant Squid!!!

Giant Lapu-lapu!

Big crabs too!

Halaans too!(Photo credit: Bolo. Nice one, B). We had this for soup during breakfast. Yum!!!

Yum!

They were all so big we had a dilemma as to where and how to cook them. They could hardly fit into any of our cookset. Luckily there were some big pans around in the sanctuary house.

Since there was hardly any time left for us to cook all of them, we decided to just cook the crabs and one of the lapu-lapu's for our packed lunch. The halaan made a tasty soup for breakfast. As for the giant squid and lapu2x, we had other designs for them come dinner time. And so, off we prepared for our breakfast and packed lunch. The tide is turning real low. Our "bangkeros" had already reminded us that accessing the river and the islands at lowtide would really be very difficult. So rush, we did!

Guys bonding. The guys with some of the locals discussing our route for that day.
Locals among themselves: Dili gyud dapat maglowtide kay lisod na kaayo.
Zoe: Bleh! Ana bitaw ko, magdali na ta!

Cooking breakfast.Everybody pitching in.
Renee to Zoe: O, ayaw na sige pa-cute dira. Wala na time, naa pa lain lutuon!
Choy2x: Relax lang dichie!
Jay: Bitaw Bossing! hehehe
Joan: Ha?!?

For lunch!

And off we go!!! Here we come!!! Bambie, Renee, Myself, Bolo (looking very much like a local fisherman. Huh! Gwapo pa sa picture na ito yung bangkero natin B! hehe), Zoe, our bangkero, Joan and Jay at the back. Choy2x took this picture standing at the "hull" of the banca.

Entering the river's mouth from the sea.

Moving in. Cute pose Bam! =)

The suspense was killing me then. As we entered the mouth of the river from the sea, I could feel myself almost trembling with anticipation hehehe. I coudn't believe we're finally just a few feet away from seeing the river upclose. This time, not just from pictures of friends or from magazines.

We're getting closer. Shown here is Benjie - our boatman - maneuvering our boat in the swallow waters of the river at lowtide

Ah... El rio encanto...Enchanted river and the cavern at its end.

A closer look at the river's "abyss" in the middle.

At another angle

Ahh...

The river was quite "enchanting" to behold upclose, no wonder its name. It was definitely awesome and beautiful. Though I don't know how to swim, there were several instances when I've braved wading in deep water with a life jacket on. But one look at the river's very blue middle and I knew, here is something that's quite hard to reckon with. In truth, it wasn't fear that I felt. It was more like a respect for the river, for something that is bigger than I am.

Docking in...

Picture, Picture!!!

After alighting from our banca, we immediately "stripped" into our swimming gears and enjoyed the water. Not before taking some good pictures though.

The lone ranger. Or is it the "River" ranger -- security guard of the place? hehehe Joke lang B!
Bolo: I came, I saw, I conquer!

Muscle man Jay

SexyRenee

Another sexy: Joan

Sexy too, Bambie

The whole gang. Notice how the shade of the water changes as it drew nearer to the middle of the river, belying its depth.

Some Photo shoots!!!

A photo shoot for a deodorant commercial. Or was it wax? hehe

Bench-babe Bambie.Watch out for this billboard. Soon to be posted in major points in the city to replace Richard Gomez' billboard =)

Enjoying the River

The brave ones. While I just content myself wading and waddling in the swallow parts of the river, the others took turn jumping into the water.

The others braving it in

Clowning around. Choy2x, Jay and Joan playfully jumping into the water.

Inside the Cavern

Spot-Spider-Woman-in-This-Photo Contest.Inside the cavern, Joan mocks, rock climbing on its walls

Still Inside the Cave

The guys.

The Ladies! WAMOC reigns!!! hehehe

WAMOC! =) Miss you Zette =(

Everyone!

At the cave's mouth. Going out of the cavern.

Water is real deep at this part. In fact, it took a lot of cajoling from me before Bolo agreed that I enter the cave too with the others. He was quite willing to pass up entering the cave just to accompany me outside of the cave where the water is swallower. But knowing that the water inside the cave is swallow, I wanted to brave it just the same. I knew I could manage it by just holding on to the cavern's walls -- ala Spiderman hehe. I was right! :) B swam alongside me though. Not quite trustful huh? =)

Lunch!

Cute Renee.While everone was through having lunch, Renee still finished off the last of the crabs "sipits" hehe

Washing up after lunch.

Don't wonder much why these are the only pictures we had of lunch. When everyone saw the crabs laid out, everyone forgot themselves momentarily and just started digging in. Forget about the picture! hehe.

After lunch, we enjoyed the place some more. I was even lucky enough to hitch a ride with our bangkeros to go the very middle of the river. Peering down below from my comfortable and quite safe place in the banca, I could feel goosebumps growing all over my body. The bottom of the river looks real mile, mile below its surface. Though I was standing up while looking down, I grew scared and insecure and sat instead at the bottom of the banca while continuing my "examination" of the river's "pit." It was scary alright but I was really glad I had the opportunity to look at it first-hand.

Island Tour

We enjoyed dipping in the water some more after lunch. Then we headed out for our next activity in our IT that day -- island tour!!!

Island 1

Island Tour!

Choy2x and Jay

The Procession. Moving from one island to the next. Water is so low at these parts that it is impossible to cross the islands using our boat. So walked we did!

The Islanders

How to drink buko, when stranded in an island without anything.
1. Hold it in your hand and look at where the hole is (See Bolo in photo); 2. Raise the buko above your head, taking care that the hole is directly where your mouth is. (See Jay in photo); 3. Raise the buko further up your head and open your mouth wider for sure hit! (See Zoe in this photo). Just follow these steps and you're sure to enjoy your buko. hehe

Dipping In

The W/AMOC signature photograph -- Backview! hehe

Home after the island tour

The girls here are shown upon our arrival back at the sanctuary house after the day's adventures. We actually had to wait a while before using the bathrooms since the boys are at it first. Huh!

Going Home!

Waiting for the jeep that would take us to Mangagoy for our bus ride home

With our host -- Manong and Manang of the Sanctuary

Richie-and-Cheez-It-eating contest while waiting for the jeep

The finalists... Renee, Joan and Jay

Lunch in Mangagoy

It was already lunchtime by the time we arrived in Mangagoy. So we had our lunch there. Afterwards, we went ukay2x but was not able to buy much. Most of us were already short of cash by then hahaha It was a nice trip all the same! Truly fun!

Trek to Tamayong Waterfalls

2005-03-23T11:07:00.000+08:00

November 14-15, 2004

Suzette is due to leave for Cebu in a few days at that time. The move came so suddenly it surprised even her. She did not anticipate that the management of the hotel in Cebu she sent an application to would call her up for an interview, interview her, then accept her immediately after the interview. The position she had applied for had to be filled real soon thus the urgency in her having to move there. It really came as a shock to the group. Suzette? Ever nice, fun-to-be-with, easy-to-get-along-with-and-be-fond-of Suzette is leaving us just like that?!! I knew I cried when I learned of the news hehe.

But I guess, Suzette's leaving really meant more than just missing her. It meant, our idea of "permanence" was being shaken to its very core. It drove home the point that while we are at the moment, really enjoying our being together, being "kids" and pursuing our "games and adventures" with such passion -- at one point we all really have to "grow up" and move on. In some distant future, we all would have to turn our back or at least lessen our time spent on our "adventures" to pursue the more serious aspects of our lives. (At the moment, my head is arguing. It is saying, who says we aren't pursuing serious aspects in our lives now? Aren't we all working now too? Are we not pursuing service to others too? Are we not making room for it in our present lives? But, yeah, I know exactly what I mean about "lessening" our time on play for more mature priorities soon.) In fact, during one of our conversations, Suzette and I agreed that yeah, what were we thinking? That we would all remain like this forever? It's really just that we are having the time of our lives at the moment. We seem to be at the very peak of our existence -- enjoying our youth, our energy, exploring our strengths and limitations with all the things we are getting ourselves into. And sharing all of these with one another is like forging a very strong bond. Our shared experiences, uncannily, brought about some attachments of sorts. Thus the difficulty in accepting Suzette's leaving.

So in view of all those things, we planned a weekend "outdoor" trip for the group. It just might be our last with Suzette around. We had just been to Cateel which was a major activity for the group. That, and the short notice ruled out going into some major climb. There were also some close friends from Marco Polo that are coming with us so it meant it has to be just a weekend thing. We then opted for Tamayong. We had just been to Tudaya. We had been thinking of going to Tamayong next. Thus the decision. It was a good thing that November 15, which is a Monday, is a holiday. So off we went to Tamayong on November 14 to 15.

Day 1: Meeting at PS Bank

The agreed meeting place was at PS Bank. Everyone grew excited when Sharon and Stephen came to join us for the trip. Sharon rarely ever goes with us. Stephen, on the other hand, we had been missing for quite some time. I guess, in view of what the climb is for, everyone wanted to be a part of it. Valery was with us too, with Iris from the Marco Polo. Edoc and Weng-weng and another one from Marco Polo would also be joining us but they would have to come in the fternoon. Edoc still have a soccer game that morning. Paljet, who had nothing planned for that long weekend also joined us. When everyone that were expected that morning was already there, we boarded a jeep boud for Calinan. Since there were enough of us to fil the jeep, we hired it to take us all the way to the jump off area in Tamayong. We made a brief stopover at Mintal to pick Valery up at her place.

Starting the Trek

When we reached the jump off area, we found some mountaineers resting at the nearby store. They had obviously just came from the waterfalls. They informed us that some group came earlier than us who are probably at the campsite already.

We just changed into our trek clothes, put on some sunblock (hehehe) then off we went. It was a long walk ahead of us -- in an open trail. Bolo, who had already been to the place several times in the past, commented as to how the trail had greatly changed. We were actually walking on a paved road. He told us, the road did not exist before. As it was already almost 12 noon, we made a brief stopover to have our lunch. We stopped by where there is a watersource nearby. There was a shed close to a "packing station" (much of Tamayong had been transformed into a Banana plantation. The road was for making transporting the bananas a lot easier. At certain points in the plantatio are "packing stations" very similar to a "Minute Burger" stall where they pack newly harvested bananas) where we stopped and so we settled there.

After a while, we continued with our walking. There's still a long way to go. After some time, the trail led us to a narrower path. At first, the trail led us downwards. But right after that, the trail started to rise. It became quite difficult from then on. We heaved a sigh of relief when we arrived at Lantaw Apo where we would have to stop to register.

Lantaw Apo

Arriving at Lantaw Apo after a long trek. Climb starts to become quite arduous from here...

At the back: Paljet, Bambie, Sharon, Suzette, Iris (partly hidden), Joan, Jay. In front: Myself, Bolo, Stephen, Renee, Valery, Zoe.

Paljet, Sharon, Bambie, Renee, Valery, Suzette, Iris, Jay, Joan, Bolo, Myself, Zoe.

Nice doggy.

Arriving at the campsite

Sharon and Stephen in the rear

Sharon and Stephen

Sharon: Whew!!!

Day 2: Ah! Sunrise! (The best part about it)

On day 2, I woke up to a very wonderful shade being cast on our tent. I immediately grew excited. I knew I'm about to witness the sun rising here in Tamayong and by the looks of the very-red-orangy-shade being cast on the ceiling of our tent, it's going to be one beautiful sunrise. And I was right =) It was indeed beautiful. Actually, what woke me up was the very cool dampness I felt descending upon our tent that very early morning. This is a very normal, very familiar, early morning occurence in the mountains. It's all part of the morning ritual really, which would have us all scrambbling for our sleeping bags or an extra pile of clothing. I'm glad for it just the same. It would mean, having me awake just in time for the sunrise.

I immediately looked for my camera, the batteries, made sure my jacket is securely zipped, put on my cap then made my way out of our tent, headfirst. The cool breeze that immediately struck me in the face did not at all discouraged me from getting completely out of the tent. I woke the others up, informing them of the sunrise. Suzette, Bambie and Renee immediately answered me but also said they still wanted to catch some sleep having slept real late last night. Suzette told me, she would be coming out later. And she did, finishing where I let off when the cold finally got to me. It was really cold outside but I braved it just the same till I was satisfied with the photographs I took.

The beginnings of a sunrise...

And slowly the dark sky lightens...

It lightens the more...

Slowly, the sky begins to clear...

And another day begins...(light)

Nice and crisp...

Really nice...

While I was taking my pictures, I noticed this lone tree that really stood out against the "lightening" sky. And so I took a couple shot at it. It's just about to turn really light, and I've been standing in the cold for a long time already it's starting to get to me and so I decided to go back to sleep. I've been told it's a long trek towards the waterfall so I wanted to be really up to it thus my wanting to go back to sleep. Meanwhile, Suzette got out of the tent she shared with Bambie and borrowed the camera.

Sunset tree upclose

(Photo credit: Suzette)

Our Tents (Photo credit: Suzette)

Day 2: Trekking Towards the Falls (Nice trail we've got: winding, and sloping and logs and some drops)

balancing act everyone

Balancing act Val, Bambie, Iris, Jay

Last on the log: Sharon and Edoc

Stream we passed by on our way to the waterfall (Photo credit: Jay)

We passed by a very interesting stream on our way to the waterfalls. It looked real nice but eerie. Jay took a picture of it. He told us later on he could almost picture some mythical faries playing in the water. Hmm... could have been! =)

Then down, down we go...

Val, Suzette, Bambie

The Waterfall

It had started to rain even before we got to the waterfall. But it did not stop us from enjoying the water just the same. Even if it meant us, practically shivering in the cold...

Tamayong Waterfalls (Photo credit: Jay)

The fall at another angle

Everyone crouching in water, fall in the background

1st Cateel Caving Congress

2005-03-01T14:46:00.000+08:00

October 29 to November 1, 2004
Cateel, Davao Oriental

We took a very early 2:00 a.m. ride out of the city to Cateel. I was not able to sleep a wink the night before as it was my neice's 2nd birthday. And prior to that, Bambie, Joan and I had some marketing to do and some sorting of the groceries. So I practically slept the whole trip. I was thinking we would pass by Mati but it turned out that passing through Mauab instead is the shortest way to get there.

We made a brief stopover at Mauab for some breakfast of "bibingkas" and coffee. I would have wanted to just sleep but Bee was adamant about me having something to eat. Then off we went again and doze off I went again. Several times I would wake up to my protesting, aching back and would notice that we have somewhat made a short-cut in a dirt (and rough) road in some "forest" somewhere. It was pretty much reminiscent of the road to Maragusan. I would have wanted to take some pictures but sleep prevailed.

Stretching a bit after a long trip at aliwagwag falls.

Upon reaching Aliwagwag falls, we made a brief stopover. Some of us answered nature's calling and took some pictures of the falls. The falls was picturesque. It had several drops. My camera was trapped in my backpack (an unfortunate oversight!)which was burried somewhere inside the van so I wasn't able to take any pictures. After a while, we then proceeded with our trip.

Soon after, we arrived at Cateel proper. My impression of it is that it is such a small, sleepy town but I liked it just the same. We had to wait for the trucks that would "haul" us over to the campsite for the activity. When it did arrive, we immediately boarded it, registered upon reaching the campsite and settled for the night.

Day 2: On to caving!

Leaving the campisite behind to go spelunking

It had been a long walk from the campsite to where the caves are. Some of the participants were already grumbling. It was really a hot day and our trekking pants that's supposed to be great for spelunking are not exactly conducive for long treks in the sweltering sun. I felt like my legs were being steamed crisp.

Most of the participants could be heard complaining. I guess nobody was really expecting such a long trek. I knew that us in the group were not expecting it at all! We thought the activity would be very much similar to the Kapalong Caving Congress the past year which had us walk just a short distance from the drop off point to the caves themselves. But this time, it was different. It felt pretty much like a major climb having to climb all the way to where the caves are. There were those who were grumbbling saying the cave's better be worth it for all the climbing that has to be done he-he =).

The fact that we had to wait awhile for our guide also did not sit well with most of us there. Everyone is already eager to proceed with the spelunking since we had to explore 2 caves that day. Some of us were even contemplating about proceeding without a guide but that's a great no-no. And so we waited and waited...

Waiting and resting somewhere in between cave 1 and cave 2.

Resting some more.

Natural swing!

On to Cave 2! After much waiting, our guide finally arrived and so we immediately proceeded to cave 2 which is the cave assigned to us that morning. Cave 1 would have to come later. On the way there, we encountered this solitary "swing" in the middle of a small clearing in the woods. It felt a bit eerie to me looking at it. It's not so obvious in this photo but Eric, Bolo and I are actually sitting on the swing. It's this piece of a thick vine that hangs suspended from a tree. Hmm... we could have been encroaching on "someone's" property, only we did not know it.

We did not have to walk far to reach cave 2. It looked pretty "unexciting" from the outside. We were hoping its insides would make up for its facade's lack of character. It had to be, to make up for the very hot, long trek we had to endure just to get there. But we were wrong. It turned out to be such a short cave. Inside though, there's a portion there that house a small, clear pond. The water looks really clear and cool. We were assured that the water is potable and so we filled our water bottles with it.

Class Picture. (behind: the mouth of Cave 2)

Inside Cave 2

We did not linger inside the cave. We immediately went outside after reaching its end. More were coming inside and it had started to become too crowded for me. To be expected, there were much grumblings going on. I did not share their sentiment. Well, maybe a little. I was hopeful though that cave 1 would prove to be different. It has to be. And it was!

Jay inside cave 2

Cave 1!

Cave 1 was indeed great compared to cave 1. It's bigger, longer and had several chambers. On our way out of the cave, the group explored a chamber we had failed to notice on our way in. The chamber had us crawling on all-fours but it was worth it just the same. There was still more to the cave than what we're allowed to see. We would have wanted to explore it further noticing that one of its chambers still opens up further ahead. But our guide was adamant about our stopping. That did not leave us with much of a choice. Courtesy and common sense also prevailed.

Inside cave 1

Edoc and Joan inside cave 1

The gang inside cave 1

Joan and myself manuevering a narrow ledge inside cave 1

Cave 1

Further inside cave 1

The shimmering curtain inside cave 1

The ledge "dancers"

The whole gang on our way out of the cave, passing through the narrow ledge again

Bee and I had a spat over my wanting to explore one of the chambers with the group. I felt that since we were assured it would just be a short chamber, it would be quite a shame to pass it up. He was insistent that we ought to just get out as we had overextended our stay inside the cave. What I did not know was that he had already difficulty breathing. The carbide in the lamp he was using somewhat became too overpowering for him. And it did not help that the cave had become overcrowded thus blocking the air from coming in. When I stubbornly went with Edoc and the rest to explore the chamber, he proceeded to get out of the cave on his own. When we were back, I found out that he had gone ahead of us. I tried to catch up with him and did just before the cave's entrance. I then got the cold treatment much to my dismay. The "silent war" lasted till we got to the hanging bridge on our way to the waterfalls. The bridge was even further than our campsite which meant a long, long time of trekking without saying a word to each other. It was fine by me. I had Joan to talk with and Edoc to help me out in some of the hurdles along the way.

The silent treatment was starting to rub me raw. He did not tell me about the difficulty-in-breathing part until later that night so I did not quite understand why he was so pissed. So, totally not understanding, I was steaming the whole time we were walking towards our campsite too. It was a hot day and my temper was rising along with the temperature. I thought he was being unreasonable about the whole thing, feeding along my anger.

The long trek back took a toll on the "WAMOC." We were all very close to our limits already. The day's activity and the heat had left us exhausted that we were just pushing ourselves to continue walking. Reaching the campsite was very much on our mind -- it kept us walking. We were thankful when we finally saw the river which signals our proximity to the campsite. Though it required an effort to go down to the river, we did anyway, took off our shoes and washed up. We were doing just that when Edoc and the other guys called out to us and hurried us up since we are still proceeding to the waterfalls. Huh! We did not want to go but they were persistent. Sluggishly, we put our shoes back on and started our ascent. Bee still was not talking to me. Neither was I to him.

I thought we were going back to the campsite to change into shorts. I was already thinking by then that the wet, heavy with mud, trek pants are begining to make me feel uncomfortable. But off we went. When we got to the hanging bridge, Bee turned around and approached me, much to my surprise. He remembered my fear of heights and crossing hanging bridges of "questionable" security hehe. He told me we would only be friends up until we reached the bridge's other end. I told him I'm very much fine with just having to hold Bambie's hand while crossing the bridge. But he insisted. The "friendship" however, lasted up until we went back to Davao hehe =)

"The Bridge of Golden Friendship." Crossing the hanging bridge to get to the waterfalls!

Reaching the waterfalls took some time. And it wasn't exactly like a stroll in the park either! On the contrary, it could be pretty dangerous as we really had to access it through the river, pass through some mini-falls. Our shoes were hadly reliable at this point already. Not only once have we slipped and fallen while continuing our climb up to get to the waterfalls. Remember that we were also pretty much exhausted by then also. So we practically had very little energy left to continue walking. Thrice, we all questioned the practicality of continuing on. Being very tired, we would have wanted to just rest as there is still dinner to prepare for pretty soon. But one of the organizers who pointed us to the falls told us it is one worth seeing as it is very much like Tudaya Waterfalls.

Tudaya! We've also been to Tudaya just recently and it was quite a fall to behold. Powerful. Beautiful. With that vision in mind, we dragged our exhausted selves and continued walking and treading on water. And there it was, the waterfalls...

The waterfalls

It was quite a disappointment, beholding the waterfalls. It's nothing like the mighty Tudaya. Still, after our initial reaction, we forgot about our tiredness and enjoyed bathing in the water. True, it is a far cry from Tudaya but it's one of mother Nature's treasure just the same. The water was cold, refreshing our already tired limbs and spirit. Soon after, we started our way back down. Tired but refreshed, we made our way back to the camp to prepare our dinner that night.

Day 3: Cooking breakfast

day 3: cooking and clowning around

Breaking camp, getting ready to go to aliwagwag

aliwagwag!

Amoc at aliwagwag

10th Mindanao Forum (Updated)

2005-02-23T17:24:00.000+08:00

Bantaawan Lake, Gingoog,
Misamis Oriental
December 17-20, 2004

"Fallen" Angels on a fallen log

Joan, Gary, Myself, Ani and Bolo, taking a break after a looooooong, tiring walk. And we're not even half-way yet! huh! The campsite is still a long way to go from here huhuhu

Finally the campsite!!!! Now, let's cook our dinner:

What's cooking?

So what's cooking? Blueberry cheesecake huh? Yep, we did made some during our last night in our campsite. Shown here are the entire gang in our little nook in the woods. First picture - Back: Choy2x (who was just about to take a dip in the river thus the skimpy shorts on), myself, Jay (whose head is barely shown), Jun and Melai (further back), Paljet, Bennie (standing up) and Joel next to him. Crouching in the middle are Edoc, Joan and Renee. Second Picture - Back: Bolo and myself, Renee, Jay and Choy-choy. Left: Jun and Paljet; Center: Edoc and Joan

DAY 2: Trek to Bantaawan Lake!

Now, on to the lake!

It's also a long way to the lake from our camp-site. The trail is full of trees, however, making it cooler for trekking. See the mist covering us in the above photos? At one point of the trail, we had to maneuver our way across a very long fallen log.

The three muskeeters Resting a bit. We must be on the right track. See, the tag?

Several portion of the trail required us to duck and scramble on our knees. We often would have to weave our way through some branches and bushes. The scrambbling left us exhausted that there were times we just had to stop and catch our breath such as in the above photo.

After some time, we did reach the lake finally. There were already several climbers there who started their trek real early. And some of them were really noisy. Nonetheless, the lake stood serene and beautiful before us.

Serene Bantaawan Lake

Jay, Myself and Bolo arrived at the lake ahead of the others. We then had some picture-taking while waiting for the others.

Sharing some laughs. Nearly slipped!

To get closer to the lake in order to get a good picture of it, we had to perch ourselves onto branches of a tree very close to the lake. The branches are not exactly sturdy thus we had to carefully maneuver our way over the branches.

Notice also how fog partly screens the lake in the background? It took a while before I was able to take some decent pictures of the lake. Had to be really patient while waiting for the fog to dispel. It did for a few moments and then it screens the lake again...

Muni-muni. Me to Bolo: "Lovely huh? When will this fog ever dissipate so I could finally take its picture?"

After awhile, Choy2x and Ani arrived and joined us....

Sibling "Chivalry" (Never "rivalry" for this two)

Ka-birthday! The two "August-3ians" holding hands...

Renee: Kita mo?

Myself: Ang alin?

Renee: Yung tagak by the lake's edge. See?

The whole gang

We had the above picture taken before we proceeded to go down. Then Melai and Jun arrived just as we were about to go....

Melai and Jun

Down we go

On our way back to our camp, we again had to duck and scrambble on our knees as we retraced our steps...

Nice ceiling of green canopy by the water source.

Took this shot while sitting on a huge rock by the river just before the campsite. I had been resting awhile after coming down from the lake when I took this photo. Bolo and I arrived there way ahead of Renee and Gary. The sun is about to set by this time thus the somewhat blurry effect here. But on a clear morning? Looking up to this "ceiling" sure is heavenly. The green really stands out against the clear sky.

Rested, changed and supped. Pretty contented after a long day trek at the lake.

Dinner was a great affair. We had adobo, crab and corn soup, some lunch left over of tuna longganisa and embutido... B and I had some crispy fried glutten and vegetarian menudo courtesy of another vege friend Imee. And immediately after supper, Renee and Gary whipped up several mouldings of blueberry cheesecake! Amazing huh? =)

Circle of friends. Having fun inside the tent during our last night in the woods.

We were waiting for the blueberry cheesecake to really set when this photo was taken. That proved to be quite difficult without a freezer nearby. We thought the coldness of the woods would be enough. Using the wrong brand of gelatine did not make it sufficient though. Outside the tent, some of the guys had a meeting over some concerns. They were pretty serious whereas us inside are having some laughs while sharing some red wine and chips to warm us up from the cold.

A bigger circle. From top, clockwise: Gary, Renee, myself, bolo, jay and joan.

DAY 3: Going Down

The whole gang on our way down...

Joan and Edoc

Bolo: Kami pod!

DAY 4: Going Home

Picture! Picture! Before heading to CDO for a brief stopover before going home. The whole gang: Joan, Renee, Jay, Gary, Myself, Bolo, Melai, Jerry, and Edoc

Reshuffle! Joan and Edoc clowning in this picture.

"Homegoing" King and Queen

Miag-ao, Iloilo!

2005-02-23T10:02:00.000+08:00

We almost did not make it to Miag-ao. Thinking that it would take us to Iloilo the shortest time, we immediately boarded the first bus that greeted us upon our exit at the Jetty in Aklan after leaving Boracay. How wrong we were :( The trip took forever :( But I guess it's not the bus really. IT IS a long trip from Malay(?), Aklan to Iloilo. And then it took us a while to check in at the hotel too. Our supposed to be reservation turned out to be "unreserved" at all. By the time we were able to enter our room, our spirits have already sagged. It's almost four in the afternoon. We did not have a decent lunch - just some Piya-ya I bought intendedly for "pasalubong."

I kept looking at my watch while we were settling in our room. I was thinking of the "sunlight" left. I assumed the trip to Miag-ao would take a while and pretty soon the sun would be setting. I was worried there might not be enough light left by the time we get to the church to be able to take any decent shots :( I was feeling a bit down-hearted at the thought. I had an inkling that Kuya Arnel would prefer to see the malls in the city than travel again another half-hour to Miag-ao. I knew he was tired from the trip and dying to have a decent meal. I am too. But the thought of passing up Miag-ao when we are already very close to it is more unthinkable to me that anything else. I've been planning to go there ever since I knew we would be traveling to Aklan and Iloilo.

I am never one to be known to impose myself on anyone (well, except by my immediate family and close cousins hehe) but I mustered my courage and urged Kuya Arnel that we go to Miag-ao and check out the malls later. I got a lukewarm response hehe But I did not let that discouraged me. I offered to pay for the taxi that would take us to where we could take our ride to Miag-ao. I called up Luchie to get my information straight were this is concerned. And miracles of miracles, off we go! Much to my heart's delight! :D

We rode a taxi to St. Paul where the vans bound for Miag-ao can be found. When we got there, there were just two passengers there which means, we would have to wait awhile for passengers to fill the entire van before we'll go. For every second that passed, I was also dying little by little inside. Then I noticed some jeepneys passing by with "Miag-ao" written on their sides. And they are mostly full. Thinking fast, Te Jean, Kuya Arnel and I got out of the van and hurriedly gestured to a jeep that was just about to go. Then the ironies of all ironies -- Kuya Arnel who did not want to go in the first place had to stand for some time during the trip since there were no longer seats available hehe He laughed in his usual "sarcastic" way when he found out that he would have to stand. I felt both ashamed and responsible for the discomfort he was feeling. I just smiled sheepishly at him and told him someone is bound to be unboarding soon. But it took a while before he was able to sit. I knew we were all hungry already. Luckily, I had some vegetarian squid strips snack I usually have with me when I'm on a trip. We shared that between the three of us.

The trip took a while. Almost an hour. I kept looking outside the whole time we were travelling. I was looking out for the light. It is almost sundown and just about to turn dark. I had a sinking feeling in my heart. I consoled myself that what's more important is in being able to see the church first hand than taking its picture. Still, another part of me is quick to add that it would certainly be a lot nicer if I could also take some pictures.

Then, there it was - Miag-ao Church. There was hardly any light left when we got to the church thus it was not a surprise when the pictures turned out grainy. But nonetheless, the church was definitely a must-see. Its facade is not as dramatic as the churches in Cebu and Bohol are but that does not make it less magestic.

The chruch's facade. Really, really nice. Notice the intricate details.

The facade upclose. The details upclose.

Te Jean and I in front of the church's bell tower

At another angle

After being able to take a few pictures outside, we got ready to leave and head back to the city. It was getting real dark anyway to take any more pictures. But we were truly blessed. The caretaker of the church probably guessed we were "tourists." It's difficult not to, considering our insistence to take pictures of the church's facade despite the fading light. He approached us and offered to take us inside the church. It was already officially close for the night. But he guessed that we had to travel far just to get to the church and took pity on us. He then took us inside, passing by the church's side entrance. And lo and behold - there it was the grand "retablo" of the church. It was definitely awesome.

The Grand Altar inside the church.

The whole altar is cast in gold. Most of it, in 24-karat "pure" gold. Amazing huh? Some trivia: The Church's patron saint is Santo Tomas de Villanueva. The church was built between 1787 and 1797. It is one of only four (Augustinian-built) churches in the country to make it to the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List.