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Mt. Malipunyo-Manabu Day Hike

July 14, 2015, 4:50 am
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Mini falls less than an hour from the jump-off , seen on our way up Mt. Malipunyo
One of my favorite trails is the long route from Mt. Malipunyo to  Manabu Peak. Both mountains are in Batangas and frequented by local hikers on weekends. If hiked on separate days, Mt. Malipunyo takes about 4 hours to reach the summit (IT here) while getting to Manabu's summit (IT here) takes approximately 2 hours. 

The traverse  on the other hand, is done by those who are up for a little challenge. On the average, it takes 10-12 hours to complete. For people like me who enjoys lengthy quiet hikes, it's a half day well spent. :)

The trail features several highlights : reaching the summit of Mt. Malipunyo, stop-over at Biak na Bundok's beautiful view deck, getting to Manabu Peak and lastly, a visit to Tata Tino, an old man living in a hut near the summit who offers free Alamid coffee to hikers.

The trail passes through a labyrinth of tall trees and plants.  It can get very slippery especially after rain and is steep on some parts. Lipa, a plant that cause itching on contact is also present on the way up Mt. Malipunyo until  a portion of the traverse. (A discussion on Lipa plants + first aid treatment is on Pinoy Mountaineer. 
Trail to Malipunyo's summit
Mt. Malipunyo's summit which I've visited twice  has not allowed me to see any views at all. Supposedly, you can see other mountains in Batangas and Laguna. However, in both times, fog obscured the scenery. It was also very windy and cold so we only stayed for several minutes. 

The second major stop - which for me, has the most remarkable viewpoint in the entire route is Biak na Bundok. "Biak" in Tagalog means a crack or gap. Our guide Kuya Mario told us that there was a plan to create a highway that was supposed to connect Lipa, Batangas to San Pablo, Laguna. However, it was not completed, leaving behind a partially eroded mountain. Tall grasses have grown since and you'll hardly notice traces of the abandoned project.    

Here, you can see towns and mountains in Southern Tagalog. With cool wind swirling around this wide vantage point,  it is a great place to rest! :)
view at Biak na Bundok
From Biak na Bundok, trail continues for 2-3 hours towards the summit of Manabu. You'll pass an open area with grasses almost as tall as you so wearing long sleeves or arm sleeves is advised. It can get very hot on this part when the sun's up. 

The summit of Manabu is marked with a large white cross. It offers views of other mountains and nearby towns but it often gets foggy in the afternoon. 

The last highlight of this route is visiting Tata Tino's hut, located 20 minutes from the summit. He generously offers freshly brewed coffee and chats with passing hikers which is why most consider this a mandatory stop. The coffee he serves is aromatic and strong. I consume around 2-3 cups on each visit so I buy some beans after as a gesture of gratitude for his generosity. The ground beans are worth your money too. 

There's also a humorous reason that makes this an interesting stop. Placed in various areas around the hut are carvings of penises of various shapes, which makes a very good conversation starter. :)
At Tata Tino's hut. That's him in a blue jacket. :)
From Tata Tino's hut back down, the trail is easy and quicker to descend as it's mostly downhill but it can be a bit slippery especially after rain. The jump-off at Sulok has several restrooms where you can enjoy a cold bath after a long hike.  

You'll be passing the city of Lipa on the way back to Manila. Here, you can find various joints where you can eat lomi, a type of noodle soup dish with a thick sauce Batangas is known for. I prefer to eat rice after a hike and often crave for comfort food so my go-to place Bigg's Diner in SM Lipa. It's a leading food chain in Bicol with just two branches in the Southern Tagalog region so I make it a point to eat here whenever I'm in the area. I love their interiors more than anything, an American retro theme.  Menu is mostly American dishes catering to the Filipino palate. I wish their serving sizes are bigger though. :P I often end up ordering a chicken meal with rice and then a burger. Hehe! 

This route may not have the same eye-popping views as the Cordillera trails  or offer a sea of clouds at the summit but if you're someone who enjoys long hikes, dense forests and don't mind some uphill sections, then this is a worthy addition to your adventure list. :) 

Here's a copy of our itinerary. Hike was last December 2014. 
ACTUAL ITINERARY  
Entry point: Brgy. Talisay, Lipa
Exit point: Sulok, Brgy. Sta Cruz, Sto. Tomas
04:30AM - Assembly Fiesta Mall, Lipa, Batangas City
05:00AM - ETD Fiesta Mall (take trike to Jump off) 
05:30AM - Arrival at the Jump Off
06:00AM - Meet kuya Manuel (guide) and final preparations
06:45AM - Start Trek
07:30AM - Arrive at the river, first water source.
08:15AM - Arrive at Peak 1
08:45AM – Arrive at Peak 2
09:15AM – Arrive at Peak 3, Mt. Malipunyo Summit (Rest)
09:30AM - Start descent
10:00AM - Arrived at Balete park
10:20NN - Start descent 
10:50PM - Arrived at River. Water source - Take early lunch
12:15PM - Arrived at Biak na bundok
01:00PM - Start descend
01:50PM - Arrived at Manabu Campsite. Rest
02:00PM - Set foot on Mt Manabu Peak (killed our time)
03:00PM - Start descent
03:30PM - Coffee Break at Manong Pirying (killed our time)
05:00PM - Arrived at Mt Manabu Jump off. Rest. Tidy up
06:00PM - Take tricycle to SM lipa Bus stop, Dinner and post climb
07:45PM - Take bus to Manila
*Thanks to Franz Sandoval for preparing this.

Expenses : This is a backpost from last year, unfortunately, I can no longer recall how much we spent but I found a blog for your reference which detailed the expenses. Click here for the IT and expenses, do factor in the inflation as this is a post from 2013:)  

Related Post : 
I did the same route with other friends in 2012 and blogged about our experience here. 
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Where to Stay in Cabanatuan : Microtel by Wyndham

July 31, 2015, 10:21 pm
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After a day of touring Tarlac (post here), our group traveled two hours farther north to the city of Cabanatuan, the Philippines' Tricycle capital with over 30,000 registered 3-wheeled vehicles.  I was joined by Argie from Philippine Star, Paolo from Hospitality News Philippines and Dandi, our host, Microtel's Marketing Communications manager. 

Sweltering heat, the sun’s last hurrah for summer welcomed us when we arrived in Microtel, our base for a half-day travel around the city's tourist spots. There was some wind but with the overbearing heat, I won't be surprise if the temperature was at 40 C.

Our visit was very timely. Microtel Cabanatuan was recently awarded a Certificate of Excellence (2015) by travel site, Trip Advisor.  Other branches that received the same distinction are Tarlac and Baguio; the latter, consistently awarded since 2011. :) 
The lobby,  a cozy place to hang-out outside your room
As soon as we got in, I was immediately drawn to the lobby's design. The paintings on the wall, big couches and potted plants in various nooks gave out a cool, relaxing vibe, a contrast to the hot weather outside. 

Ms. Lita Budomo, the amiable Resident manager handed us card keys for a quick look at the hotel's facilities. I was sent to one of its 50 rooms, suite 106. It's at the ground floor with a good view of the pool at the back. 
Suite room (Photo from Microtel)
All suites have a queen size bed, mini kitchen & sink, microwave oven,  refrigerator, sofa sleeper and a tub. The rest of the room types sans these amenities also has a flat screen cable tv, dryer, telephone, radio clock and a seat by the window, a nice set-up for this scenario in my head -  a quiet morning with a cup of coffee in my hand. :) 

Although we're not spending a night here, I know from experience with their two other branches that their beds are magnetizing, queen sized chiropractor approved mattresses, the type that's so comfortable, it makes you just want to stay indoors. I'm not exaggerating, unless of course you have the same bed at home :P. It makes  you feel so refreshed even with just a few hours of shut-eye. 
The pool at the back of the hotel. Photo from Microtel
There are two complimentary water bottles in every room and if you need more, there is a water dispenser in the lobby where you can get a refill. There is also free flowing coffee and tea in a nook beside the vending machine where you can purchase snacks.

After going around, we stepped out for lunch at Liquid Bar & Restaurant, a partner establishment located just beside the hotel. The dining area is dim and cozy - for me, a nice set-up for business mixed with pleasure type of gatherings.
Liquid Bar & Restaurant (Photo from Microtel)
Caldereta, Crispy Pata & Longganisa 
Their menu is a combination of Filipino and Western dishes catering to the varying palettes of its clientele. Dishes are beautifully plated and taste as good as it looks. If you love coffee, I recommend trying Darker forest, a blended drink that has a shot of espresso, dark chocolate and caramel,  topped with whipped cream, chocolate syrup and a cherry. It's a fitting dessert after a heavy meal. 

Microtel offers value for money without sacrificing comfort, a mid-priced, no frills hotel that offers a bit of luxury.  Carrying the branding of Wyndham, one of world's largest hospitality companies, Microtel promises to deliver consistent service across all its branches nationwide, something that I witnessed on this 3 day media tour. 

Traveling around the Philippines? Check out their website to locate a Microtel branch. 

Microtel by Wyndham 
Website
Sta. Arcadia, Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija
Rates : Start at 2,300 PHP for a room with 2 Queen beds
Other room types : 
1 Queen Bed 
1 Queen Bed Suite 
Other facilities : Wifi access, Massage (on-call), 24-hr vending area, photocopy, fax and mailing services, safety deposit box at the Front Desk and ample parking space 

Places of Interest in Nueva Ecija : 
Aquino-Diokno Memorial
Group shot with ms. Cely Ollero (lady in glasses, wearing an ID) , our tour guide and the cook at the time senator Benigno Aquino and Pepe Diokno were incarcerated  in Fort Magsaysay
Located inside Fort Magsaysay, this former headquarters of the  1st Military Security Detachment was converted as a detention center for political prisoners Benigno Aquino and Jose Diokno where they were held from March 12, 1973 to April 11, 1973. During this time, Martial Law was in effect and both were held in solitary confinement with no information as to when they will be released.

Here, they endured mental torture. Between their rooms is an empty room which prevented them from directly talking to each other. I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas was played throughout the day and it was summer! Visits by their families were limited and they can only see each other through a screen with a few feet of space that prevented them from touching each other. 

Our tour guide Ms. Cely Ollero was  a former admin staff and cook at the facility during the incarceration of Benigno Aquino and Jose Diokno.  She interacted with them directly! She's such a pleasant woman and enthusiastically answered all our questions. 

Although there was not much to see, I found our visit very enriching. Sans the political aspect, learning about what kept them busy during their capture was amusing. I cannot imagine being confined in a little space with not much to do. How they stayed sane with meditaion and exercising is admirable. (just last year, I had chicken pox and could not go out for nearly a month. I had internet access  but not being able to go out whenever I wanted was  torture for me). 

Aquino-Diokno Shrine
Fort Magsaysay
Palayan City, Nueva Ecija
Visiting Hours :Mon-Fri, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM 
*Group tours and weekend visits can be done by coordinating in advance

Museo Novo Ecijano
The provincial capitol in Palayan city houses a museum filled with artifacts and an exhibit of tourist spots and festivals around Nueva Ecija. 

Minalungao National Park - a recommended destination for outdoor lovers. More travel information on Kirk Anatomy. 

Lakewood Golf & Country Club 
Location : Km. 111 Maharlika Highway, Sumacab Este
Cabanatuan City
+63 44 806 1722
Facebook Page

Find out about other tourist spots in Nueva Ecija on  Lakbay Nueva Ecija blog.
If you only have 3 hours in Cabanatuan, here's a helpful post from Pinoy Adventurista - 3 Hour Tour Around Cabanatuan. 

Acknowledgment :
This trip was made possible by Microtel by Wyndham. Thank you! :) 
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Barefoot Runner, Eddie Vega

August 3, 2015, 2:15 am
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It's Monday and for a lot of us in the workforce, it's the start of another hectic week so I'd like to help ease the stress and share with you some inspiring news. :) 

Western Union has launched, "Heroes for Better", an advocacy campaign that recognizes Filipinos around the world who have made an enormous positive impact in the lives of others in their own little way.
The Barefoot Bandito in one of his marathons. (Photo provided by Laira Legaspi)
One of them is Eddie Vega, also known as the "Barefoot Bandito". He has completed a full marathon in all 50 states in the US and a Guiness World Record Holder for the Most Barefoot Marathons Run in One Year. His purpose - to help children who cannot afford shoes.

To date, he has ran 129 marathons barefoot that helped raised funds for over 15,000 school children by partnering with social enterprise, Soles4Souls. 

To know more about his story, please watch the video below (this gave me goosebumps!). If this post has inspired you, please feel free to share his story. :) 

To view more stories of goodness from our fellow Filipinos, please visit Heroes for Better. 


Related Article:
CNN Philippines - Eddie Vega, the Barefoot Runner Gives Back

To learn how you can support Soles4Souls, visit their website.
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Food Trip : Sisterfields, Tagaytay (soft opening)

October 8, 2015, 6:09 am
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With Tagaytay's cool weather, bustling food scene and that gorgeous view of Taal volcano that never gets old, a visit, even for just a day is always delightful.  :) 
A view of Taal Volcano from a suite in  the 9th Floor of Summit Ridge Hotel. Note that the main crater is behind
that hill in front of the photo. :) 
Joining its endless row of dining establishments is Sisterfields located inside its partner hotel, Summit Ridge. It's a newcomer, but one that cannot be ignored, being a member of the Cravings Group which owns several successful business ventures - a few of which include C2, The Coffee Beanery (ah the coffee and cake all you can promos!), Center for Culinary Arts, the Philippines’ premier culinary school and one of my favorite restaurants, Cravings. 

Adopting a Farm to Table concept, dishes are prepared with ingredients that are locally grown, either by the restaurant itself or bought directly from its source. It will feature Filipino dishes with Batangas beef, produce from the town of Taal and Tagaytay, organic juices and of course, artisan coffee blend, Pahimis from Cavite.  
Sisterfields will be opened at the ground floor of Summit Ridge Hotel near the reception area. 

Its menu, which promises comfort food with an elevated taste, was created by Chef Noel dela Rama, an acclaimed New York-based personal chef. He graduated with a Culinary Arts degree from Culinary Institute of America (Trivia : author and tv personality Anthony Bourdain also graduated here) and  has a Baking and Pastry Arts degree from The French Culinary Institute in New York. 

On its soft opening, the Sisterfields team graciously welcomed us for a taste of what they will be serving to their guests.

Its airy interiors has an unassuming, family restaurant appeal, a complement to their menu.  It's walls and ceiling have cheery illustrations of pineapples, a major product of Tagaytay. 
With my table buddy, Kara of Travel Up
Our dining experience made me feel like I'm hiking towards a mountain's summit but I'm hardly sweating. There's a sense of excitement that slowly builds up with each plate presented on the table. There are eye popping views  too - but it's not over the horizon, instead, it's on the plate and everything I laid my eyes on is edible. 

We sampled five appetizers and it was a shame that I could not consume everything. 
On the photo above are Tinapa Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce (PHP 145)  and Crispy Tawilis with Kaffir Lime Aioli (PHP 140). These two are straight-forward dishes but its sauces complimented its tastes very well. I personally enjoyed the Tinapa Spring Rolls. It was crispy and light on the stomach, an ideal appetizer.  As for Tawilis, a freshwater fish which can only be found in Taal Lake, I prefer it as a main dish with lots of rice on the side. :) 
Potato, Corn & Bacon Chowder (PHP 155)
Another dish on the menu that's easy to love is chowder. Their  Potato, Corn & Bacon Chowder  is creamy and flavorful, delivering that homey taste expected from this thick soup.  The lone bacon was  a nice touch. It's thin and crispy,  like munching on a potato chip. 

Next on our table were the greens -  Chopped Salad with Green Goddess Dressing (PHP 320) and another salad with Kamias, Jicama, mango, lettuce and bagoong Balayan Vinaigrette (PHP 240). Both salads featured fresh, juicy produce and innovative sauces. Of the two, I prefer the latter. Bagoong and vinegar was an unexpected mix. I did not think that two would go well together but the creative folks in the kitchen did a great job of balancing the flavors. The strips of mango were sweet and counters the sourness of kamias and saltiness of bagoong vinaigrette.  
Mango, Kamias and Jicama Salad with Bagoong Vinaigrette 
By the time the main dishes arrived, I was already half full but they were all so nicely plated, it was hard to resist and I welcomed each with enthusiasm. 
Cerveza Negra braised boneless beef short ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes (PHP 550)
Cerveza Negra braised boneless beef was very reminiscent of caldereta except this one had creamy mashed potatoes at its base. It was so creamy, I initially thought it was cheese. The beef looked as though it'll melt right inside your mouth, I enthusiastically dig in. It was so tender, you won't need a knife to cut through it. 

The next two meat dishes were the delightfully crispy Southern Fried Chicken (PHP 575), (its skin had a buttermilk taste, a personal fave!) and the tender and tasty, Sticky Baby Back ribs (PHP 450). 
Sticky Baby Back ribs with Coleslaw (This is a sample plate, actual serving size is smaller than this)
The leche flan is creamy and sweet - fitting for its serving size of two tablespoons. Other desserts to try also include homemade ice cream in Ube, Macapuno, Pineapple Taragon and Kapeng Barako (coffee) flavors. There will also be Filipino snack favorites such as Turon Ala mode and Ginataang halo-halo. 
A sample of Leche Flan (PHP 95)
With all that eating, I was relieved when it was announced that we will be toured around the hotel by Nathan from Summit Ridge. It's a much needed break  so we won't feel too bloated. We were then told we'd have snacks after the tour. :P Gah, it's the kind of issue I'd gladly deal with. 

Summit Ridge Hotel by Robinsons Hotels & Resorts sits on the highest point in Tagaytay. With that, the suites at the 6th and 9th floor have excellent views of Taal volcano. It's located a little farther from the crowd but still along Aguinaldo highway which makes it ideal for staycations. It also has enormous function rooms and is also a favored reception for weddings and other big gatherings. (To book a room, visit the Summit Hotels website). 

We also visited Annie's Garden, located at the back of the hotel. Named after Cravings Group President and founder, Ms. Annie Guerrero, it is where some of the herbs are planted and harvested for use in the Sisterfields kitchen.  It's still on its initial stage and being a lover of plants, I look forward to seeing its completion. 
With my fellow bloggers at Annie's Garden. (Photo from Redge of MoistPR)

After our tour, we returned to the dining area for a cooking demo of another item on the menu, Penne with longganisa, mushrooms and arugula. We also sampled  this dish after. This pasta will appeal to those who prefer their longganisa sweet. 

And here's the lovely bunch from CCA who made us happy foodies. Chefs from CCA will take turns in the kitchen when its fully operational. 

Aside from the restaurant, there will also be an Epicurious cafe (a deli and cafe which has a branch in Shangri La Mall) where guests can dine in or buy freshly baked breads to go.

There's a lot to look forward to at Sisterfields which makes it a worthwhile stop for foodies. I hope to be back soon when its fully operational.  
   
Just a reminder that they're still on soft opening and is currently located at the 2nd Floor. If you find any points for improvement, contact them directly or send them a message on on their Facebook page. 


Other Places of Interest in and around Tagaytay : 
Aside from restaurant hopping, there's also a lot of places to visit. Among these are The Puzzle Mansion aptly named for its Guiness Record for largest collection of jigsaw puzzles,  Sky Ranch and for hiking enthusiasts,  the nearby mountains  of Batulao, Talamitam and  Apayang (newly opened trail) located in Nasugbu, Batangas, about 30 minutes away. A trail also exists to those who want to get closer  to the volcano but entry point is in Talisay which  is another 20 minutes from Tagaytay

Sisterfields
Summit Ridge Hotel
KM 58 Gen Aguinaldo Highway, Maharlika West,
Tagaytay City, Philippines
Facebook :  Sisterfields 
Instagram : @SisterfieldsPH

To book a room at Summit Ridge Hotel, Summit Hotels.   

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Cebu Pacific Air Adopts Philippine Eagle

October 18, 2015, 12:12 am
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Together with fellow bloggers and other members of local media, I witnessed the formal adoption of Philippine eagle named, "Mindanao" by Cebu Pacific Air. The turnover ceremony was held on October 15, 2015 at the Philippine Eagle Center in Davao City.  For five years, the popular budget airline will shoulder the food and veterinary care of the 13 year old Philippine Eagle. Mindanao is among the 17 other Philippine eagles under the captive breeding program of the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF). Through this, eagles are breed and reintroduced to their natural habitat, an effort that aims to address its dwindling population. 

Mindanao is the only one of its kind that can tolerate humans at a distance of 2 meters, thus, appointed as an ambassador for education, serving as an inspiration to visitors to learn more about the plight of the Philippine eagle. 
The talented Mr. Gabe Mercado hosting the turnover ceremony
Endemic to the Philippines, "whose uniqueness, strength, power, and love for freedom, exemplifies the Filipino people", the Philippine Eagle is the country's national bird, replacing the maya  in 1995 under the administration of President Fidel Ramos. (Read about proclamation No. 615 here). Sadly, it's in the DENR's list of critically endangered species with only 400 pairs left, its diminishing numbers caused by deforestation, hunting and trapping.

Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DENR) is tasked by law to ensure that the Philippine eagle survives and thrives. There are  also laws in place to punish violators. However, with Pamana's  heartbreaking death (news here), it's clear that more vigilance and education is needed. Another group, a Non-government Organization working to ensure its viability is the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF).
Official turnover with PEF Executive Mr. Dennis Salvador and Cebu Pacific 
It manages the Philippine Eagle Center, its conservation and breeding facility for the Philippine eagle and other birds of prey. The facility, which has become one of Davao city's primary tourist destination, is 8.4 hectares big, abundant with tall trees with areas for viewing several Philippine eagles, other birds, mammals and reptiles put up for the purpose of educating its visitors. (Tip : Put on some insect repellent!) It's open daily from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Guided tours are available for free and it is advised to contact the center in advance to ensure the guide's availability. They also have a snack and souvenir center selling items made by indigenous communities where Philippine eagles nest. (Travel information below).
Stuffed toy on sale for 565 Pesos at the Philippine Eagle Center or through their website (Nice word play, Ceb Pac! ;) )
How to Help : 
To adopt, donate or support, please visit, Philippine Eagle Foundation.

Travel Information :
The Philippine Eagle center is located at Malagos District, approximately 45 minutes-1 hour from Davao city.  For visiting hours and information on how to get to the Philippine Eagle Center, click here.
Entrance Fees : 
Adults - 150 PHP
Kids 18 years old & below - 100 PHP
Telephone number: +63 (082)324 1860
Mobile number: +63 917 862 7146
Email address: reservations@philippineeaglefoundation.org

How to Get to Davao? Cebu Pacific Air has direct flights from Manila and Cebu.

Where to stay in Davao? Click here to book at Marco Polo, a 5-star hotel located at the heart of Davao's business and shopping district. 

Related Reads : 
1. Why the Philippine Eagle is the country's national bird via ABS CBN news.
2. An interesting argument on why the Maya should be brought back as the Philippines' National Bird  is posted on Zamboanga.com.
3. Penalties for killing animals classified as critically endangered  : 
(a) imprisonment of a minimum of six (6) years and one (1) day to twelve (12) years and/or a fine of One hundred thousand pesos (100,000.00) to One million pesos (1,000,000.00), if inflicted or undertaken against species listed as critical;

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We walked EDSA, an advocacy for a walkable Metro Manila

November 3, 2015, 5:56 am
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Welcoming sunrise at Magallanes, Makati
I love walking. Since you're moving at a slower pace, I'm able to look around and discover small cafes, street art, interesting graffiti and plant boxes, things that would normally be a blur when you're inside a vehicle - and to me,that's just as exciting as doing a mountain hike. :)

Imagine my delight when I met other individuals who are willing to spend a Sunday morning to walk along one of the Philippines' major highways!  On October 25, I joined fellow advocates in walking a significant length of EDSA, starting from the giant globe at SM Mall of Asia in Pasay to North EDSA in Quezon City.The goal of the activity, dubbed as #WalkEDSA, was to initiate a discussion on how to make Metro Manila a walkable city. Our group, comprised of 13 individuals from various fields,was led by hiker friend Gideon Lasco of *Global Shapers Community – Manila Hub. 

Though it was a Sunday, a not so busy day in the city, the activity gave us a glimpse of the challenges fellow pedestrians face. We started walking at 5:00 AM and very early on, I had to take out a towel to protect myself from smoke emitted by the vehicles that passed us. Aside from pollution, we passed by areas that were dirty - trash on sidewalks showing some people's lack of discipline, who treat the road as one big garbage bin. There's also this interesting sidewalk in a section of Makati where only one person can pass which would be challenging for those in a wheelchair;  an overpass that turned into a little market and lastly,  drivers who show no regard for pedestrians, perhaps they're from the same specie of drivers that irks me - those who floor the gas  pedal when they see white lines on a pedestrian crossing. 

The experience was not all negative. Aside from burning 1,500 calories (according to a friend's gadget), it was fun walking areas that had murals (Camp Aguinaldo side), street art along Pasay and portions of EDSA planted with trees and shrubs (Makati and Quezon City,nearing Corinthian Gardens).  It was also fascinating seeing Mary Queen of Peace from the overpass. It's massive! :) Aside from structures, meeting people who make a living in the streets was an awesome experience. 
A very jolly sisig vendor doing the famous "pabebe wave"
(in case you haven't heard about it, it's an #AlDub thing :P Check it on Twitter!)

Philippine National Railways track in Makati
The 21.3 KM route  took us 5 hours, 30 minutes to complete, including our breaks. Gaaah, it was a lot of walking on concrete and as tiring as it was, the amount of time we spent walking gave us plenty of insights about pedestrian welfare.  
street art along EDSA-Pasay side.
After freshening up, we reconvened at Capitol Commons in Pasig for a post event discussion. Each one was given the chance to speak about what they've observed and their ideas on how we can move forward. Gideon provided a well-written summary on Pinoy Mountaineer. Another friend, Ferdz Decena, also shared about his experience on his blog, FerdzDecena.com) 
The group at SM North EDSA (after we wiped our faces :P, photo from Ferdz Decena)
We've got a long and exciting journey to help make things better for us pedestrians, if you are interested to take part, please "Like" the Walk Manila Facebook Page to get updates on future activities. :) 

The Global Shapers Community is a network of young leaders based in cities all over the world, and #WalkEDSA is the Manila Hubʼs activity for the Communityʼs “Shape
Sustainability” - an initiative that challenges every hub to think of what they can do tomake their cities more sustainable. Walking, with its documented benefits to individual health, urban mobility, social solidarity, and the environment, is certaintly a (literal) steptowards this direction. 

Related Articles on #WalkEDSA:  
CNN - Making Metro Manila "pedestrian friendly", 
TopGear Philippines - Pedestrian-safety advocates walks 20KM length of EDSA
Rappler - #WalkEDSA: 9 things I learned from walking the length of EDSA
Philippine Daily Inquirer - To Make Metro Manila Walkable 
Manila Coconuts - This guy walked EDSA on a Sunday. These are 5 of the things they learned.
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Gears : Osprey Packs Nova

November 23, 2015, 6:29 am
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If you're on the haunt for a new backpack or a gift for someone who travels or hikes a lot, consider getting an Osprey, a  reputable brand from the US, known for its bags and travel gears. In 2014, it celebrated its 40th year in the industry, a deserving feat for a business that puts in much thought to its customers, offering high quality products, designed to help its users enjoy their outdoor, travel and biking experience. 
At the entrance of the Mangrove Trail of Balanga Wetland.
Photo taken by Kara Santos of traveling-up.com
I have been a happy and satisfied  Osprey  user since last year when Osprey Packs Philippines offered me to try Quantum, a model under the 24/Seven series made for everyday use(Post here). The collaboration couldn't have come at a better time as my old backpack had just been stolen and I was looking for a replacement.  I've used it for work, on backpacking trips and once on a three day hike in Mt. Halcon, one of the longest trails in the Philippines. (Post about our hike here).  Most of my travels involve a lot of walking and hiking so it's important for me to have a backpack that's comfortable to use, spacious and durable (imagine breaking a pack when you're out hiking, gah!). 

Just recently, I was provided with another model. This time, it's  a Nova (photo above).  Similar to Quantum, Nova is also an everyday pack and I've been using almost everyday for almost 4 weeks now. I love that there's so much space inside and a compartment for practically everything : 
- blinker light attachment tab 
- front organization pocket for things you need to access quickly like pens, keys
- a front panel stretch mesh pocket where I usually put fruits or snacks (again for easy access :P)  
- heat embossed stash pocket which keeps items like mobile phones and sunglasses scratch free
- padded tablet sleeve and a TSA approved padded laptop sleeve
- slide stretch mesh pockets, where I put cold water bottles

Its gazillion pockets is both an advantage and disadvantage because it sometimes takes time for me to find something I put in but I consider it as a good practice on being mindful on what you do,not "mind full". :P 

Another cool feature of this bag is that it's thoughtfully women-specific.  It's designed according to a woman's body (more details below), making the pack more comfortable when carrying a heavy load. It's like having someone help you carry your stuff, which is nice especially for users like me who pack their hoouse. :)  Unlike Quantum which  has a wider frame and takes up the entire space of my upper torso making me feel like a turtle, Nova fits my back perfectly. 
At Las Casas de Acuzar. Photo from Osprey Packs Philippines
As an everyday pack, I am very satisfied with it especially since I don't have to struggle to put  everything in. :) I also love its material. It doesn't feel and look like it's going to rip off easily. 
Specs : 
Color : This model comes in three colors, Jam Purple, Moody Blue and Black (mine's Jam Purple)
Weight : 2.05 lb
Dimensions : 19 x 11 x 10 (inches)
Capacity : 33 Liters
Price : Osprey Nova retails at 4,990 Pesos.
Where to buy Osprey Packs?  In the Philippines, it's exclusively distributed by the Primer Group and sold in R.O.X.(List of branches)
Facebook Page : Osprey Packs Philippines 

Tips on Choosing an Osprey Pack
- If you are buying from R.O.X., talk to an Osprey Sales Assistant for a recommendation on which packs suits your needs. Alternatively, get the model and check it out on Osprey's website. 
- Not all Osprey packs have a raincover. If you plan to bring it to hiking, it's advisable to choose a model that comes with a raincover to protect your stuff from rain and thorny bushes (if the model you want doesn't have one, you can purchase a raincover separately)
- For ladies, go for the women-specific packs 
What makes Osprey women’s - specific packs unique?
"Our women’s packs come in torso lengths that best fit women’s bodies. All packs come standard with women’s - specific harness and hipbelt. The women’s harness is narrow at its entry point in the backpanel, and tapers slightly outward below the collarbone to offer more comfort and freedom for the chest area. The women’s hipbelt is canted slightly upward to best cup the hips and is patterned with a narrower profile. Our women’s packs also come in women’s specific colors."

Want a smaller pack? Watch this  interesting overview of an Osprey Momentum commuter pack which is ideal for those who bike. I just found this on You Tube and the cool lady in the video was so convincing, now I want one. :P  Haaay!

With so many brands out there, it is both a blessing and a curse to see so many options when you're in a store. To get the best value for money, research and ask users. If you're looking for an outdoor pack, ask those who hike regularly for tips.  There's also a group on Facebook where you can ask these questions, check out CLIMBER Philippines.  




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Hiking Log : Sunset at Mt. Apayang

November 26, 2015, 5:56 pm
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One of the nicest things about having long time, reliable hiker friends  is that you can just drop your original plans and go on a spontaneous trip somewhere else! :P 
Our view as we approached the summit of Mt. Apayang which is just around the bend
To cut a long story short, Tristan, one of my oldest friends got held up at work and by the time he arrived at our meeting place, I already had reservations about our original plan, which is to hike Mt. Sembrano in Rizal as it was already late and there might not be enough time to get back home on the same day. 

After agreeing to change plans, we got his car in Paranaque and headed off to Mt. Batulao, a mountain in Nasugbu, Batangas, which we often hike. We were already on the road towards SLEX, when I remembered Mt. Apayang, a neighbor peak of Mt. Talamitam, also located in Nasugbu. This new hiking destination opened in August 2015 and features a thick forest trail. Prior to its opening, some hikers would combine a hike to Mt. Batulao and Talamitam in a day. I find it nice that there's now an option to do 3 to maximize your travel to Batangas.  :) 

I found a very helpful blog post on the web that had all the information we needed and quickly got in touch with our guide, JP Dimapilis. 

Normally, hikers do a traverse, starting from Apayang, then to Talamitam since these mountains are less than 30 minutes away from each other.  But, as it was past 3:00 PM already, we decided to start from Talamitam's jump-off at KM 83 in Sitio Bayabasan, Brgy. Aga. From here, there is also a  trail  up Apayang. This is also where we met up with JP. I noticed, the registration area has moved to a closer spot, just along Nasugbu-Tagaytay highway where public buses pass by. After registering and paying the fees (20 Pesos each for Mt. Apayang and another 20 Pesos for Mt. Talamitam), we started off our hike at 3:40 PM. 

I haven't visited Mt. Talamitam in years and it was great to see that the bamboo bridge is fixed. It moved up and down as we walked on it, making the cross very exciting. 
The wooden bridge is fixed! 
After this bridge, trail becomes a little steep. There is some forest cover on this side, but past this is an enormous area of grassland that's a nightmare to walk  under the heat of the sun. 

Since it was late in the afternoon, the heat was easier to bear and I actually had a great time especially since we saw several horses and cows along the way. It felt awesome to be hiking in the mountains again after a 3-month hiatus. :) 

Our guide is commendable. He is not only friendly and chatty, he  is very considerate, often checks up on us if we're fine with the pace and also shares information about the mountains.
Our guide, JP Dimapilis, he just came straight from a training at the town proper just to help us out.
You can see Mt. Talamitam  on the right side. :)
 
It was getting close to sunset so we headed to the summit of Mt. Apayang  first while there was natural light so we can see the view. Facing Mt. Talamitam, we took an denser trail on the left. The  grasses were taller than all 4'11 of me and I ended with a lot of grass cuts but I was enjoying too much from seeing a lot of green everywhere, the pain was negligible. :P 

Nearly two hours after starting our trek, we finally reached the summit of Mt. Apayang, silhouette view of nearby peaks welcomed us. I read that when sky is clearer,  you can also see the peaks of Maragondon mountain range in Cavite. 
Summit of Mt. Apayang
There is an open hut at the summit, a very good spot to sit and enjoy the breeze.  

After resting, we headed over to Mt. Talamitam which is less than 30 minutes away. It was very dark when to got to the summit so instead of stopping, we headed back down right away. By 7;00 PM, we were back at the jump-off. 

Mt. Apayang Hiking Info : 
Contact Info for Guides  
09057849830/09304840925 - John Paul (if you're traversing from Talamitam to Apayang)
09169336608 - Sir Juancho (if you're starting from Mataas na Pulo, Apayang's jump-off)
09065763787 - Sir Isagani Botabora (for tree planting activities)
Guide Fee : 500 Pesos (if doing the traverse), 300-400 (one mountain); Guides are required in Talamitam but you can negotiate. :) 
Registration Fee : 20 Pesos per mountain
*Parking fee is free
Where to wash up after the climb? There is a clean restroom near the registration area where you have to pay a small fee (I forgot how much but it's no more than 20 Pesos)
For bigger groups, just check with the locals. 
Where to eat after a climb? Tagaytay, which you will pass on your way to Talamitam has a lot of options. My favorites are Bag of Beans (there's 3 along Tagaytay-Nasugbu highway), Mahogany Market, Green Ats (where there's a very good view of Taal volcano) and Kenny Rogers at Sky Ranch (they have super friendly staff!). 
 For other information that's not on this blog, please visit this very helpful post from Dencio Travel
Notes : 
- as of last visit (October 2015), camping is not allowed in Mt. Apayang. Please verify with the numbers posted above before making plans.

Related Posts :Mt. Talamitam Traverse to Mt. Apayang | Pinoy Mountaineer
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Review : Asus ZenFone 2 Laser (ZE500KL)

November 27, 2015, 1:58 am
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4 weeks ago, I received a ZE500 KL Zenfone 2 Laser, a smartphone from  Asus, a leading technology company from Taiwan. Here's my experience with the phone, written from a perspective of an ordinary user who doesn't really give a fuss on all the technical details. :P
Unboxing the sleek Asus ZenFone 2 Laser
When looking for a new phone, I'm mainly after its durability, sound quality (I'm an active Spotify user), design, camera features and of course, its price. I don't even call or text much and unless I got really bored and could not find anything else to do, I won't even pay attention to the apps installed in my phone. :P I am heavily reliant on my tech savvy friends (ehem, Ian!) to help me out. 

Design
ZenFone 2 Laser looks sophisticated. Its screen features a 5.0-inch HD  (720px1280p) display and a Corning Gorilla Glass 4, a brand of glass known for its durability.  I appreciate how vibrant the colors appear on screen. Its slim size is a plus. It's 3.5 mm thin on its edges, yet it does not feel like it's going to slide off my hands easily, with its curved back and metallic finish. Having an excellent grip  is important to me because I have jelly fingers and I often drop things, especially when I'm distracted over something. 

Here's an entertaining and powerful video showcasing Zenfone's salient features. The location for some of the scenes is beautiful too :).

Sound Quality
I listen to music a lot on my phone and the earphones that came with it allows me to enjoy music more.  I don't hear background noises and my  colleagues find it a challenge to grab my attention when I have my Asus earphones on. They usually have to tap me, then I have to remove the earphones for me to hear them out and I don't even have the volume on full blast. :p. As for its speakers, the sound quality is just okay. I rarely use it anyway. Worth mentioning is that sound output can be customized with its  Audio Wizard 2.0, an app on the phone where you can adjust the volume, treble and bass according to your preference. 
Here's what the back looks like. The volume controls are on top of the Asus logo.
Camera Features 
Since most of my travels involve a lot of walking around, I pack very lightly without leaving out the important stuff. As part of saving luggage space, I use a smartphone in taking souvenir shots instead of bringing a camera which is the major reason why picture quality is vital to me. 

ZenFone 2 ZE500KL has an 8MP back camera  guided with a laser auto-focus, f/2.0 aperture Toshiba lens  and a 5MP front camera.  Simply put, it focuses on the subject so quickly and delivers photos with excellent detail. I love that it saves me time from having to take multiple shots. If you're into food porn and taking pictures of flowers and insects, you will be able to appreciate its camera. 


It also comes with a Photo Collage app and a MiniMovie maker for creating videos. 

Here are some of the unedited shots :
This one's my favorite. Like something out of an Amorsolo painting, this bucolic scenery of farmers working in the field is always a refreshing sight. This was taken while traveling inside a van along SCTEX. :)  

I love how it takes good photos under low light environments :
Photo below is from The Plaza Hotel in Balanga, Bataan. 

Dancing fountain and light show at Plaza Mayor de Ciudad de Balanga
Close-up shot

Food Porn, because food is love! 


Built-in Apps 
It's got several installed apps which initially, I found a little too many. I've uninstalled some and kept the ones that I find useful such as :
-  AsusWeather  which provides  UV Level, sunrise and sunset time, an hourly and extended weather forecast in collaboration with weather forecast provider, Accuweather.  - Flashlight
- Amazon Kindle for reading ebooks
- TripAdvisor 

Bonus : For those who need storage space for their files that can be accessed at any time, the ZenFone  2 Laser comes with  a100GB of FREE Google Drive Storage free for 2 years which you need to redeem in the Google Drive app by April 1, 2018."After two years of activation, your files restored on storage will not be removed. Only, you can not put new files on your 100 GB storage." Other Asus devices comes with this useful freebie are 

ZenFone 2, ZenFone Selfie or ZenPad. 
More info here.

If I'm going to nitpick, the only thing that irks me about it is that the back case is so challenging to open.  I feel pain on my fingers when I tried to put a sim in it. On the other hand, it's not much of a big deal because you won't even have to open it frequently. I also find that an advantage in case I drop the phone - oops, I've actually dropped it thrice already on hard surfaces (I was in a hazy state on all three occassions :P) and the phone has not shown any noticeable damages. 

OTHER DETAILS 
Model :  ZE500KL Zenfone 2 Laser (Dual SIM)
Android Version : 5.0.2
Memory : 2GB
Processor : Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 (quad-core) 1.2 GHX
Price : Retails at PHP 7,295 

For more details on its technical specifications, go to this link ZE500KL | Asus website
If you're looking for a smartphone with a  bigger screen and  a camera with higher mega pixels, consider  Asus Zenfone 2 Laser ZE550KL

With its affordable price and  remarkable features, Asus Zenfone 2 Laser ZE500KL makes an excellent budget smartphone. I'm very happy I got the chance to try this out. :)  

Related Post :
Here's another review of ZenFone 2 Laser ZE500KL from Ferdz Decena


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Gears : Keen Uneek Footwear

December 22, 2015, 7:19 pm
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Keen Uneek is a durable and stylish outdoor sandal made from two cords and a sole. I've been using it for weeks now - on travels and in running errands around the city.  I can't express enough how comfortable it is.  I can hardly feel the cords when I  move, which was my initial concern because I tend to wander a lot :P. I was worried the cords or strap at the back might cause friction on my skin.  Fortunately, after a short break-period of a day or two, it now feels like it's part of my foot. At a  weight of 252 grams, it's very light and easy to move with (doesn't weight that much inside your bag too!).

It comes in various colors for men and women (check here). Mine is Gargoyle/Bright Chartreuse (I just call it baby yellow :)) Its design is a nice cross between girly and tough,  is easy to pair with neutral color clothing. 

If you're always on the go and don't want any fuss on the laces, its locking system is an advantage. There's a cord at the instep and you just need to pull it to secure. Also notice that your toes are partially covered and there's some space  in the front area of the sole under your toes, providing stub protection.  If you're a little uncoordinated or get easily distracted like me, you can appreciate how important this is. :) 

Keen Uneek is an ideal footwear for travelers  who love getting acquainted to a place by walking and for outdoor lovers looking for a bit of adventure on the trails. It's the footwear you can rely on for hours of walking around the city and on short nature hikes. I'm also interested to see how it fairs on wet surfaces such as waterfalls and rivers but I haven't had the chance to test it.  For water activities, I recommend Keen Venice H2 which I've used on waterfalls trekking. It's a women's sandal, for guys, there's Newport H2.

Here's a  closer look on Keen Uneek. You can also find user reviews on YouTube, just run "Keen Uneek" on the search button. :)

Product Information :
Keen is a brand from the US and it's heartwarming to know that the people behind it has helped with the relief efforts for typhoon Yolanda survivors, donating 30,000 pairs of shoes last year. Story here. 
Weight per shoe: 8.9 oz/252.3 g
Category: Casual, Outdoor
Activity: City, Beach
Weather: Warm 
Upper: Polyester braided cord
Lining: N/A
Rubber: Non-marking rubber outsole
Price : Retails around 5,000-6,000 PHP (will post the actual price soon) 

Where to  buy Keen in the Philippines? 
R.O.X. Bonifacio High Street, Taguig 
R.O.X. Marquee Mall, Pampanga
R.O.X. Camp John Hay, Baguio
R.O.X. Ayala Center, Cebu
R.O.X. Centrio, Cagayan de Oro
Res | Toe | Run Palawan
Res | Toe | Run Avenue Square, Naga
Landmark Trinoma, Quezon City (Ground Floor, Men's Sportswear)
Royal Sporting House Festival Mall, Muntinlupa

Website and Online store (for buyers in the US) :Keen
Keen Philippines Facebook Page : Keen Footwear PH 

Disclosure : 
This post is a collaboration with Keen Footwear PH.
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Backpacking Benguet & Bataan

January 3, 2016, 2:38 am
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Approaching Gungol Rock in Mt. Ulap, Benguet
After months of traveling with friends and meeting new people, it was time again for a much needed "me time" that involves a little hiking and eating awesome food! With limited time to plan, I decided to go to Baguio and Bataan. These are actually 7 hours away from each other by bus but both have destinations I've been wanting to visit, Mt. Ulap in Benguet and San Miguel Peak & Stregato Gelateria in Bataan.  To maximize my leaves at work, I compressed my visit to Baguio and Bataan in a 3D 2N itinerary which I'm sharing with you. It's a little tight on the schedule but I got the kind of experience I wanted. :) I encourage you to tweak this itinerary to suit your preference. I also included suggestions on alternative destinations to help you plan your next adventure. 
Inside Joy Bus to Baguio 
ITINERARY 
Day 1 - Travel to Baguio
10:00 AM - Depart for Baguio from Genesis Cubao via the super comfy Joy Bus (The ride was so smooth, I felt like I was traveling on a plane!)
3:00 PM - Arrival in Baguio
- Check in at Hotel 45 extension  (hotel information below)
- Early Dinner at Ili Ilikha Artist Village. Ili Likha is a cluster of creatively decorated food stalls serving healthy comfort food. The entire place itself is an artwork! Some food stalls open at 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (some close at a later time). One of the food stalls I frequent is Urban Kamote. Its specialty is balbacua, a very tasty soup dish in Southern Mindanao, similar to beef stew. *Meals  start at 60 Pesos. 
- Visit Burnham Park. I never get tired of visiting this place because here you can people watch and grab some street food like strawberry taho, ice cream and dried manges. There's also a dancing fountain and light show that starts around 6:00 PM. 

NOTE : As an alternate IT, you can leave Manila at night so you can have a full day in Baguio. A good source of travel information is Go Baguio. Consider your hotel's check-in time as not all hotels can accommodate you earlier. If you leave Manila by 11:00 PM, you'll most likely arrive before 5:00 AM the next day. For a super early grub, try Pizza Volante and Zola Restaurant, both along Session road and Good Taste (Cariño St., behind Baguio Center Mall). These are all open 24 hours as of this writing. 

Day 2 - Mt. Ulap Day Hike
8:00 AM - Take jeep at Lakandula street. Route is Ampucao. (Fare is 30 PHP, travel time : 45 minutes)
8:45 AM - Arrival at Brgy. Ampucao. From the highway, walk towards the direction of Ampucao school to get to the barangay hall. You need to register and get a  guide (400 PHP for group of 5, day hike).
9:00 AM - start hiking. Our route was a traverse from Brgy. Ampucao to Brgy. Sta. Fe. The trail approaching Sta. Fe is steep and slippery, not ideal for those with knee injuries but what makes it exciting is seeing the sacred Pong-ol burial caves along the way and crossing several hanging bridges.
12:30 PM - End of hike. 
There is a wash up area before you exit the highway where you can change clothes and grab quick meals. If exiting from Sta. Fe, public transpo back to Baguio can be challenging as most vehicles that passed by were already full so my guide and I just hitched a ride back to Brgy. Ampucao where there were more trips. 
3:00 PM - Take jeep back to Baguio. 
4:00 PM - Back in Baguio (Link to detailed IT to Mt. Ulap is posted below)
- Check in at Benguet Prime Hotel (1,200 PHP, single bed). This hotel is shabby but it has a good location along Session road and is close to banks and the stores. The customer service is amazing. They make you feel at home. :)  Complimentary breakfast is satisfying too. 
- Dinner at Azotea Greens, a vegetarian restaurant along Session road. (Located inside Azotea Building near KFC and 7 Eleven)
Visit Mt. Cloud Bookshop (Casa Vallejo, Upper Session Road, back of SM). This bookshop is a good place for perusing works of local writers.  Within the same building are  Casa Vallejo (one of Baguio's10 oldest institutions turned into a boutique hotel) North Haven spa (a friend loves their massage services!), Cinematheque (a screening area for independent films) and Hill Station, one of the city's most popular restaurants. 

Day 3 - Quick hike and food trip in Bataan
10:15 AM - Depart from Genesis terminal to Mariveles, Bataan
Travel time to Mariveles took 7 hours. 
Tip : Instead of traveling to Bataan,you can choose to explore the rest of Baguio on the third day. Links to alternative Baguio IT can be found below.
5:00 PM - Arrival in Mariveles. Tell bus conductor to drop you off at BASECO Compound/ SSS Building in Mariveles.Take a tricycle to Barangay Sisiman. Tell the driver to take you to the grotto. (Fare : 60 PHP, travel time, 15-20 minutes)
5:15 PM - arrival in Barangay Sisiman. Start hiking to the peak for the sunset
5:20 PM  - reached the peak. (yes, hike  was very short! :P).  Even if the travel time was crazy longer than the actual hike, I still consider it a worthwhile stop. The peak  offers a view of Corregidor island, Mariveles bay and its surrounding coastal community.  :) 
6:00 PM - take tricycle to bus station in Mariveles
6:15 PM - take bus to Balanga (around 20 PHP). 
NOTE : Also near the bus station in Mariveles is Pupung's Grill, a recommended place for dining with a beach view. 
7:15 PM - arrival in Balanga. Take tricycle to Balanga plaza (8 PHP). 
*Plaza Mayor de Balanga  is a beautiful complex with a design inspired by a UNESCO World Heritage site, Plaza Mayor in Spain. It also has a dancing fountain and light show in the evening.
- Dinner at Stregato Gelateria, a pretty cafe within the plaza complex that serves comfort food, coffee and gelato. I ordered a mocha gelato frap which was very good! I will go back for their beef dishes to try more food! :) 
9:00 PM - took the last trip from Balanga to Cubao via Bataan Transit (200 PHP).
There are several accommodation in Mariveles and Balanga town proper. You can stay for another day (Links to possible side trips below).
12:00 MN - arrival in Cubao
*Trip was last December 4-6, 2015
Sunset at San Miguel Peak in Brgy. Sisiman, Mariveles, Bataan
TRAVEL INFORMATION :
BAGUIO
How to Get to Baguio from Cubao/Pasay?
Joy Bus is the executive coach of Genesis transport company. The seats are comfortable and has a more spacious leg room. You also get a free snack and bottled water on board. Blankets will also be provided.  Tip : Get a seat farthest from the restroom.
Bus tickets for Joy Bus  can be bought at the Genesis terminal in Cubao or Pasay. You can also book tickets online  via  iWantSeats. Fare is 690. Travel time : 5 hours via TPLEX. 

Victory Liner is another reliable bus company that has terminals in Cubao and Pasay. Website. Fare is 450 PHP from Cubao terminal. 

Where to Stay to Baguio?
For cheap accommodation near upper Session Road, try Hotel 45 Extension (near the back of SM). Rates start at 1,000 PHP off peak season. Peak season are bookings that fall during Panagbenga Festival, Philippine holidays. *There are two branches of Hotel 45 identified as "main" and "extension". Main is at the heart of Session road and is much older. I prefer staying at Hotel 45 extension which is near Upper Session road, behind SM and walking distance from my favorite bookshop, Mt. Cloud. 

Other hotels I've tried and recommend :
Microtel Inn - love its location which is connected to Victory Liner terminal
Azalea Residences - it's like having your own condo in Baguio :) 
For other budget accommodation, check out this post by Senyor Lakwatsero which I found quite helpful. 
*Check out discounted hotel rates in Baguio via Agoda.

Hiking Info - Mt. Ulap, Ampucao, Benguet
As of last visit, there was no need to coordinate in advance but if you have additional questions, you can contact Ms. Maia of Brgy. Ampucao Tourism, +63 998-958-9549 (mobile no.)Detailed hiking itinerary of Mt. Ulap here. Other nearby hiking destinations in Baguio are Mt. Sto. Tomas and Cabuyao, Osocan Spanish trail, Mt. Timbac and Osdung.  For a challenging day hike try a traverse in Mt. Ugo. *All itineraries can be found on my friend's blog, Pinoy Mountaineer. :)

Places to Visit around Baguio? 
Below are other helpful resources in backpacking Baguio : 
Lakad Pilipinas -   Baguio City Travel guide.
Rappler - Baguio weekend itinerary

Where to eat in Baguio? 
Ili Likha Artist Village - Assumption Road (Map here). This street is near Session Road, on the same side as Don Henrico's and Baguio Cathedral. Meals start at 65 PHP. 
Other favorites include Pizza Volante (Camp John Hay branch), Hill Station, Azotea Greens, Te Quiero Tapas Bar and Restaurant (beside Microtel Inn), Ketchup Community (it's a compound with several restaurants)
Check out 15 amazing Baguio City Eats. 

BATAAN
How to Get to Bataan from Cubao/Pasay?
Genesis has terminals in Cubao and Pasay. Bataan Transit has a terminal in Cubao. 
Genesis Bus terminal in Cubao, map here. 
Fare to Mariveles is 290 PHP (aircon bus from Cubao via Genesis). 
Fare to Balanga is 200 PHP (aircon bus from Cubao via Genesis)

How to Get to Bataan from Baguio City?
There is a Genesis bus from Baguio to Mariveles. Fare is 522 PHP and travel time is 7 hours. The terminal is along Governor Pack Road. 
*Schedules below (*subject to change, please confirm with the bus company Website here.)
5:15 AM/6:15 AM/7:15 AM/9:15 AM/10:15 AM /11:15 AM/12:15 PM/1:15 PM 

Where to stay in Balanga, Bataan? 
There are several inns and hotels in Balanga.  I've stayed and enjoyed my experience at The Plaza. :)  You can book on Agoda. You can also find a listing of other hotels with discounted rates on their site.

Places to visit around Bataan? Check out these helpful blogs :  
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Hiking in Palaui : Lagunzad-Leonardo Trails

January 25, 2016, 5:20 pm
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a view of  Palaui landscape from  Cape Engano Lighthouse
Palaui is a picturesque island, known for its beaches, in Santa Ana, Cagayan Valley, on the northeastern side of the Philippines.  In 2013, it was included in CNN's 100 World's Best Beaches along with Puka beach in Boracay and El Nido, Palawan.  It was also the filming site for the 27th and 28th season of US reality show, Survivor. For our group however, the main draw of this remote island was the prospect of discovering hiking trails. :) 

Despite receiving local & international media attention and its tourism taking off, it has maintained its raw beauty. There aren't any hotels or big modern structures here.  Those who want to spend a night would either have to camp or avail of a homestay (like we did) that offers basic amenities. Travelers who don't want to rough it up may opt for a day trip and stay in the mainland of Sta. Ana where there are hotels or travel from Tuguegarao city (where the airport is, but that's 3 hours away) *Check out hotels in Sta. Ana in Agoda.

After a 20 minute boat ride from San Vicente pier, our group which included  Gid, Coby, Julius, Tony, Gonz, Charles and Gab arrived at Punta Verde, the community where the homestays are located. As we neared the island,I looked in the water, it was like glass, you could see through it.  I excitedly put a hand out in the water which felt warm, my first encounter with Palaui!
Palaui Island is declared as a protected landscape and seascape.  Mutilating, defacing  or destroying objects of natural beauty, or objects of interest to cultural communities (of scenic value) and other prohibited acts is punishable by law as stated in Republic Act 7586.
The water was low, the boat had to stop just before the shore. We had to walk a few feet in the water. The sand is light brown and felt a bit coarse on the feet. Thankfully, our homestay was close to where we docked. 
arrival in Palaui island
After putting our bags down,  some of us decided to walk around to find a store and get  some water and Gatorade.  We just came from a two day hike of Mt. Cagua, an active volcano  in Gonzaga, Cagayan Valley and we were running low on trail food and water. (Travel tip : Buy your supplies before you get to Palaui as there aren't many options in the island.) 

As we roamed the island, we saw children playing outside their homes, a rare and relaxing sight for me. We also spent a few minutes by the shore, staring at the glassy water and  listening to the sound of the wind. :) It was close to 6:00 PM, still early but it was already very quiet around the island.   


Our accommodation at Madam Elsa's place had two rooms and two bathrooms. It costs 250/head a night which was a good deal. The beds were supposed to fit 8 of us but we would be brushing on each other's skin if we pushed it. It would be quite awkward especially for me, the lone female in the group. Although the group's chemistry was good, most of us had just met a few days before. :P Two people in our group slept outside the rooms to get a good sleep. 
Welcoming sunrise by the shore
At 5:30 AM the next morning,  we set off for our hike.  Our group, with 8 people had to get  two well-trained guides. One of them gave us a briefing and took the lead while the other, ate Noni, stayed at the back of the pack, ensuring that no one got left behind.  We headed off first to Lagunzad trail,named after Filipino ecologist Dan Lagunzad who helped identified the flora and fauna in the island. Its entry point near the beach gave us a good view of the sunrise.  It would have been a more glorious sight if not for the clouds partially covering the sun as it rose over a pink sky.  

The trail involved some light hiking passing inside a forest filled with marked trees and to a wide grassland with rolling terrain  reminiscent of the landscape I've seen in Batanes.  The highlight of the trail is what remains of  Cape Engano, a lighthouse built during the Spanish colonization period, completed in 1898. (Note : Those who don't want to hike can opt for a boat ride from Punta Verde). Situated on a hill, it not only offers a glimpse of history but also scenic viewing areas featuring Dos Hermanas island, Siwangag cove and sections of Babuyan group of islands. 
Cape Engano Lighthouse
After visiting the lighthouse, we ate our packed breakfast (ordered from our homestay) at the registration area. There's a restroom and a store where you can buy cold drinks and souvenirs. 

Below's a clip of the view from the lighthouse. :) 

Our route back to Cape Engano was through Leonardo's trail, named after another renowned Filipino botanist,  Leonardo Co, who also studied plant species in the island. Those who have taken an interest on Philippine plants would be no stranger to his name. (Check out a snippet of a documentary on Leonard Co's early life here.) With his unfortunate passing in 2010, I find it sad that I could no longer have the chance to meet such an inspiring man of science. (Trivia : Lagunzad and Leonardo's trail were inaugurated in 2011 in honor of Daniel Lagunzad and Leonardo Co, two great Filipino botanists who conducted field studies in Palaui. Source :Philippine Native Plants Conservation Society Inc.) 

Leonardo's trail was three times tougher than Lagunzad trail with its steep rolling sections.  When taking this trail, I advise you to bring ample  snacks, water and footwear with good traction. It's a challenging hike and not advisable for those with knee injuries.  

By 12 noon,  we were back to our homestay in Punta Verde where lunch of lobster, fish and shrimp was waiting. :) After another two hours, we boarded a boat back to San Vicente Port so we can travel back to Manila in the evening via Tuguegarao. 

An account of our hike in Palaui island is also posted on Gid's site, Pinoy Mountaineer.

Palaui Travel Information  
How to get to Palaui Island - check out this helpful guide by Lakwatsero.
Other sources : 
Out of Town Blog : Palaui Travel Guide
Two Monkeys Travel Group : Palaui and Tuguegarao DIY Guide

Notes :
- apart from hiking, other activities include island hopping, snorkeling, diving. Once in Palaui island, it is easy to ask around and arrange tours.
- Smart has limited network signal  in Palaui (no LTE but I could send out a few texts on some parts of the island). 
- no ATMs or credit card facility, bring enough cash
- bring insect repellent (if spending a  night at homestays) and  power banks or extra batteries as power supply is limited.
- aside from visiting Palaui island, you can combine it with a trip to Callao Caves in Penablanca. (Travel info here.)
- bus fare from Victory Liner Kamias to Tuguegarao is 850 PHP, first class. Travel time is 11 hours (as of January 2016). To shorten travel time, you can also fly to Tuguegarao or Laoag from Manila via PAL (flag carrier of the Philippines) or Cebu Pacific (budget airline).

Thanks again Julius De Vera (for arranging the logistics), Gideon Lasco (for organizing the group) and to the rest of my awesome hiking buddies Coby, Gonz, Tony, Charles and Gab. :) 
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Urban Adventure : Tree Trekking with Haribon

March 15, 2016, 4:35 am
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I get a high just walking around, staring at plants and trees - whether I'm in the city or out on a hike.  This year however, my admiration to nature has really grown. The feeling is oddly familiar, like developing an attraction to a friend where you suddenly develop a need to know almost every  detail about them - at least, that's how it is for me. :P 

Last February 27, I joined an urban tree trek organized by Haribon Foundation, the Philippines' pioneering environmental  organization. The activity, dubbed as "3Ts  Tree Trek" is part of the group's campaign to raise awareness on the importance of native trees. The Ts, stand for Tree, Trek and Tag, an event where participants are taught how to identify native trees and its role in biodiversity (the existence of the variety of plants and animals  in an environment).  You don't need to have a specific background or be part of an organization. You just have to be quick to sign-up! Event calendars are usually posted through their Facebook Page, Go Haribon. What's even cooler -  the lectures are free! 
Haribon members introducing themselves before we started the tree trek
The first two events were held in CCP and in Camp Aguinaldo but I never got to join until its 3rd run, which was at Kanlungan ng Sining, a garden inside Rizal Park (good place for some me time here!).  There are native trees planted inside the compound which made it a conducive place to learn about trees. 
Narra, the Philippines' National Tree grows easily and can be found in the major islands of Luzon, Visayas & Mindanao
After the organizers from Haribon introduced themselves, we played a game to break the ice. It involved some role playing and a Pinoy game, which in the street is  called "bato-bato picks" Haha! (Not sure how they call it in other countries but it involves using the hands to represent rock/paper/scissors). I was never fond of group or parlor games but for the love of trees, I actively participated and enjoyed it too! :P  The atmosphere in the group was congenial. The organizers were very open,  encouraged us to ask questions and provided additional trivia on trees. 

There were about 50  participants or maybe more, but we were divided into groups which made it easier to listen. We were also provided with a clipboard, a piece of paper and a pen so we can write notes. 

We were introduced to 11 native trees  -  Kamagong,  Botong, Balete, Banaba, Duhat, Molave, Is-is, Narra, Talisay, Dita and Hauili,  a small fraction of the 3,600 identified Philippine native trees.  The flow of the lecture was fun and informal. Fun details were shared about each tree. 

Trivia 1 : Did you know that the Balete or the Banyan tree is actually the National Tree of India? It's a different specie of balete though. :) 
With fellow tree lovers after the 3Ts activity. :) Photo from Oliver Pe
Once we were provided with techniques on how to identify trees, the lecture became even more  interesting! You need to stop and look at the tree -  consider its fruit, flowers, leaves - its apex (the tip of the leaf), shape and arrangement.  It can be very exciting! :) 

During the session, our lecturers also stressed the importance of planting native trees as these are recognized by other organisms, enabling the ecosystem to flourish. Exotic trees however, do the opposite and can even hamper the development of native trees. 

Trivia 2 : Duhat tree grows fast and can grown in not so fertile soil, very tolerant to heat and resistant to grass fires!

Check out this article on why we should plant native trees, An Appeal to People who Plant Trees, a must read to those who are planning to organize tree planting activities after summer.

3Ts Tree Trek is a very enriching activity, especially  for someone who is very eager to learn more about trees. I'd love to do this again and perhaps next time, it'll be on a mountain trail! :) Thank you Haribon Foundation! 

Haribon’s 3Ts (Tree, Trek and Tag) project is funded by the Philippine Tropical Forest Conservation Foundation Inc. (PTFCF). Blowing kisses to you PTFCF!

Want to get more involved in nature conservation? Join Haribon! 
How to be a Haribon Member? 
Visit their Membership page to learn more about its benefits and register or renew your Haribon Membership. 
Contact Number :   +632 421-1209 
Email : membership@haribon.org.ph

To get updates on future activities, like Haribon on Facebook ,  Go Haribon
Instagram :Go Haribon

Want to expand your knowledge on trees? Check out these Social media accounts.  I am not an admin of any group and I strongly advise that you read the rules of the group before posting.  
Facebook : Philippine Native Tree Enthusiasts 
Facebook : Plant A Philippine Tree

and oh this friend, I like, if I were to compare him to a tree, he'd be an exotic Balete tree - beautiful but misunderstood. :P 


It's not very common that I meet people who feels overexcited about trees. If you're one, connect with me on Instagram (@jovialwanderer), let's tag each other on tree pics! 
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Banana Peel's Earth Hour Collection

March 31, 2016, 6:14 am
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Need new flip flops? Consider getting a pair (or two!:P) from the Earth Hour Collection of Banana Peel,  one of the Philippines' leading flip flops brand. These pretty, nature-inspired designs feature glow-in-the-dark straps made from eco-friendly and non-harmful materials. 

Aside from having a nice pair of comfy slippers (Been wearing mine for three weeks now and I'm very satisfied!), you also get the chance to support a worthwhile cause! Each purchase will help Banana Peel and their conservation partner, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF Philippines), deploy  solar lamps to families in the remote  town of Monreal, Masbate  so they can have a more sustainable and safer alternative source of light, other than using the more hazardous, kerosene lamps. 
Men's collection. 
Banana Peel sent me two designs, "Bouquet" and  "Punda Millia". It couldn't have come at a better time because my old favorite pair of slippers, which has served me well, had just given up one me. :P 

Being flat footed, choosing one size bigger than my usual shoe size turned out to be a good decision. It fit me perfectly. Also, I appreciate the honesty on the tag that came with the pair, which explains that the prints are made from non-toxic  paint and as a result, the print may wear off.  For health reasons, I do not mind at all. Besides, most of the time, my foot's going to be over the design. 
Women's collection
Most importantly,  I really love how comfy the sole and straps feel. It may not be as soft as my old pair but it didn't take more than a day for me to adjust.  I've even walked with it continuously for 30 minutes under the hot sun (3:00 PM!) and the level of comfort  did not falter a bit. I'm a new fan! 

Banana Peel 2016 Earth Hour collection comes in six designs for women and five designs for men, with each pair sold at Php420 for the women’s collection and Php440 for men’s collection. For a list of branches, check out www.bananapeel.net. Follow Banana Peel on Facebook- Banana Peel Flip Flops, and on Instagram- @bananapeelofcl


Note : This post is a collaboration with Banana Peel. 
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Outdoor Adventures in Bataan

April 20, 2016, 5:36 am
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Up until a few months ago,  I only knew Bataan for its mountain trails.  My "initiation climb" with an outdoor club was actually in Kairukan Falls in Morong, 16 years ago! :) Being an avid hiker, return visits were limited to just hiking and I'd normally just have enough time to go back home and prepare for school or work the next day. Fortunately, after a collaboration with Osprey Philippines and the provincial tourism of Bataan,  I was introduced to other wonderful places in Bataan that made me realize how underrated of a destination it is.  

Check out this list of hiking and bike trails,  plus other destinations and  tips on where to eat in Bataan!  I also want to share that other than the places itself, I am  also promoting responsible outdoor travel, the core of which is in this old quote, "Take nothing but pictures, Leave nothing but footprints, Kill nothing but time."   I'm sharing information with high hopes that you'll visit these places and  gain more appreciation for nature and respect for people, places and fellow travelers. 

HIKING
Mountain Trails
Tarak Ridge (Brgy. Alas-Asin, Mariveles) -  this old and frequented hiking destination is part of Mt. Mariveles and takes 5-6 hours to reach. Its main draw are the stops to Papaya river (where you can dip in its icy water) and the ridge's scenic view of Corregidor and other nearby islands.  (Itinerary here.)
my friend Des at Papaya river
Pantingan-Tarak Traverse (Brgy. Saysain, Bagac to Brgy. Alas-Asin, Mariveles) - this one's on my bucketlist!  If you're physically and mentally prepared and looking for a grueling day or an overnight hike, try this route which combines Pantingan Peak, the highest peak of Mt. Mariveles and Tarak Ridge. Local hikers refer to this route as PanTarak. Check out a friend's account of their day hike which took them 20 hours to complete. (Blog here). As an alternate, Pantingan Peak can also be your main destination that can be completed as a very long day hike that would take about 11 hours to finish. You can also spread it out in a 2 day itinerary. Itinerary here.

Mt. Natib (Brgy. Tala, Orani, Bataan)- Classified by PHIVOLCS as a potentially active volcano, you will find lots of big rocks and thick flora along trail, but no fumaroles. It is notorious for its steep trails to the summit that'll take about 3.5-5 hours to reach (depending on the group's pace) and limatik-infested trail (leeches). A side trip to Pasukulan falls (information below) can be combined with a hike to Mt. Natib. Itinerary here.

For a more challenging hike, you can do a traverse from Mt. Natib to Sitio Kanawan, an Aeta community in Morong, that will take about 12 hours to complete (blogged about it here).  If you have acrophobia like me, the hanging bridge before the main road will be another highlight of your adventure. :P
Group shot at the summit of Mt. Natib taken during our hike in 2013. Photo from pinoymountaineer.com.

San Miguel Peak (Brgy. Sisiman, Mariveles) -  located in the coastal town of Sisiman, the hike to its peak, though a bit steep takes only about 10-15 minutes.   At the top, you can catch a  glorious view of the sunset, see Mariveles Bay, Corregidor island, Sisiman lighthouse and the town of Mariveles. (Travel Reminder : Take your trash down with you. No one's going to pick it up after you. ;))
Sunset from San Miguel Peak. Took this photo on a solo hike up this hill on December 2015. 
After your hike, you can also take a sidetrip to Sisiman lighthouse. The area near the shore is also great spot to watch the sunset. The entire barangay appears to glow during the golden hour, a very relaxing sight!  For more information on San Miguel Peak, check out this very helpful post from Filipina Explorer.

Another mountain that can be hiked but with limited information online is the cone-shaped Mt. Malasimbo in Dinalupihan. 

Notes : Hiking time mentioned on this post are the average time. Ultimately, your own hike would depend on your level of fitness and your group's pace. To maximize your hiking adventure, it is recommended to train before a hike. Train harder if it's a major hike for your own safety and the group's.  Some ways to prepare for day hikes are stairs climbing (some do it with a backpack but be careful not to injure your back), running or using an elliptical machine, 3x a week for at least 30 minutes. Swimming is also good but you also need to do some running so you can work on your knees. If you're doing multi-day hikes, training with weights would also be helpful. 

Travel Reminder : If nature inspires you to hike or travel, help preserve what Mother Nature has to offer. Leave no trace. Don’t write on rock formation or tree trunks. This is an eyesore and a selfish way of leaving a mark. 

Waterfalls 
Ambon Ambon Falls 
Ambon Ambon Falls & Limutan Falls  (Bagac, Bataan) - Limutan is a small falls, approximately 20 meters in height. It is frequented by locals on weekends. If you have a 4WD, you can park close to the jump-off that will cut your hiking time. I saw visitors bringing beer cases to its base. :P The basin is small and can accommodate about 10-15 people. Ambon Ambon Falls on the other hand is taller, about 60 meters yet the basin is small, can comfortably fit less than 10 people and the water goes only up to my waist (I'm only 4'11 feet tall). When we went here, we first went to Ambon Ambon Falls which  was a  2.5 hour hike from where our van dropped us.  Taking a shortcut, it took less than an hour to get to Limutan Falls. 

Check out Love Mindanao's account of our hiking adventure last April 3, 2016. 
Kairukan Falls (Morong) 

Pasukulan Falls (Abucay) - another hiking trail on my list, specifically for its lush trail. For more information, check out this post from Turista Travels . This can be your main destination or a side trip after hiking Mt. Natib. 

Dunsulan Falls (Pilar) - located at the foot of Mt. Samat, this 9-meter falls is  a gentle hike. Aside from bathing, other activities include riding a  540-meter zipline and horseback riding. Check out GMA's video feature below.


Responsible Travel Tip : Bring your own trash bag or dispose your waste properly. 

Trail Running/Biking 
Bataan's infamous bike trail is the  Killer Loop. Art Fuentes of Outside Slacker,  provided this description of the route, "technical climbs, flowy descents, bone-rattling downhills, fantastic views of mountains, rolling hills and seas– the Killer Loop has got it all."Check out the rest of his review on his blog, Outside Slacker.

For information on mountain biking in Bataan, check out think link. You may also get in touch with Bataan Trailriders and Adventurers Network on Facebook.

Other Places to Visit in Bataan  
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar  (Brgy. Pag-asa, Bagac)- recommended for architecture and history enthusiasts, this destination provides a glimpse of 18th century Philippines, showcasing intricately reconstructed heritage houses.  Day tours (Starts at 999 net/person) and overnight packages are available. Visit their website for more details. 

Mt. Samat National Shrine  (Brgy. Diwa, Pilar) - completed in 1970, it is dedicated to the American and Filipino soldiers who fought during World War II. The shrine consists of a 92 meter memorial cross with a viewing gallery and a colonnade with a mural, esplanade and war museum.  The memorial cross which is at 555 meters above sea level offers sweeping views of other municipalities, nearby mountains and the West Philippine sea. 
Opening Hours : 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, daily
Entrance Fee : 20 PHP (Parking fee is at 20-30 PHP depending on vehicle type)
For more photos and info on Mt. Samat, check out this post from  Lakad Pilipinas. Click here.

Balanga Wetland and Nature Park (Balanga) - consists of a mangrove trail and also considered a good area for birdwatching (Come early in the morning). My first visit  here in 2015 ignited my fascination with mangrove forests. 

Did you know that mangroves are home to fish, crab, shrimps and mollusk species? It also protects the coast from erosion brought by waves and storm by trapping sediments from rivers and land (Source : WWF). 
Address : Barangay Tortugas, Balanga City
Entrance Fee : 5 PHP! 
Commuting directions and additional information on Filipina Explorer.
Balanga Wetland's mangrove trail. Photo taken by Eazytraveler.com

Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (Napont Point, Morong) - the Philippines' first and only nuclear power plant was completed in 1984 but never operated due to the government's decision to mothball the project when the 1986 Chernobyl disaster in Ukraine happened.(Source : Interview by Telegraph.co.uk to Mauro Marcelo Jr.) By law, NAPOCOR is mandated to maintain and preserve the facility, which is now open to visitors and for educational tours. Advance coordination needs to be arranged with NAPOCOR. Contact details at the NAPOCOR website. 
Outside Bataan's Nuclear Powerplant facility
Pawikan Conservation Center (Nagbalayong, Morong) - run by volunteers from Bantay Pawikan Inc., whose chairman was a former Pawikan egg hunter turned savior of these endangered species.  There are about two rescued pawikans that are under their care that can be viewed by visitors. More turtles can be seen around November-December, when  the turtles who were born here come back to lay their eggs.  The Pawikan festival is  held annually every last week of November as a means to promote awareness and help raise funds for the organization's conservation efforts. 
Entrance Fee : 20 PHP  (Check out Lakwatsero.me visit here. The blog was posted in 2011 but it's still very similar on how the place looked when we visited December 2015.)

Where to eat in Bataan after your adventure? 
Espada Grill - serves grilled tilapia, pork liempo, chicken bbq/inasal and other Filipino dishes. Try their  Monday buffet, a bang for the buck at 195 PHP/head inclusive of meat, vegetables and seafood, dessert and drinks. 
Price Range : 195 PHP for buffet, every Mondays from 11AM-2PMand 5PM-9PM  
Regular Meals start at 100 PHP. Bundles for those dining with a group are also available. 
Address : National Rd. cor Batungbakal Subdivision, Sta. Rosa, Pilar
Facebook Page :Espada Grill

The Beanery - a chain of cozy cafes that also serve full meals. I've been hearing good feedback with their food. Unfortunately, I  wasn't able to try the food during my first visit but I'll definitely be back to try their meals! 
Price Range : 120 PHP above for the pastas and around 120 PHP above for the coffee
Address : The Beanery Main Branch, Capitol Drive, San Jose, Balanga City
Facebook Page : The Beanery
*There are two branches in Balanga 

Amanda's - offers Filipino cuisine. Every dish we tried here was delicious! I recommend the pinakbet and practically any meal they have that has tilapia. :P 
Address : Villa Carolina Subd., Puerto Rivas,  Balanga
Facebook Page : Amanda's

Mt. Tarak Guest House and Restaurant - offers a wide selection of fusion meals and solo meals named after different types of adventurers like Hunter's 109 Meals, Backpacker Pork Schnitzel, Excurtionist Pollo Al Jerez, Hiker's Chicken Al Ajillo and more.  Try their specialty, Pollo Iberico Antojo, slow-cooked roasted whole chicken that takes an hour to prepare. 
Price Range : Solo meals start at 109. They also serve dishes for sharing. 
Address : MAAP Road, Brgy. Alas-asin, Mariveles, Bataan.
Contact Numbers : +63 917 534 28 87 (mobile) or +63 (047) 6121093 (landline)
Facebook Page :Mt. Tarak Guesthouse and Restaurant

Loleng's Hutieu-an - this eatery offers Filipino and Vietnamese food. It is named after its owner, Aling Loleng and hutieu, a noodle soup dish. Aling Loleng  is a Filipina who used to work in the Philippine Refugee Processing Center (PRPC) in Morong. During her stint at the center, she gained Vietnamese friends who taught her their cuisine. *PRPC operated from 1980-1994 and  hosted refugees coming from Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia during the Vietnam war. The PRPC served as their homes while the refugees waited for the processing of their papers to resettlement  countries like the United States, Canada and Norway.(Source : Inquirer) 
Price Range : starts at 50 PHP
Address : Mayor St. Brgy. Binaritan, Morong, BataanBusiness Hours : 7:00 am to 9:00 pm (Monday to Sunday)

Stregato Gelateria - this pretty cafe  prides itself in serving gelato that has  "less fat, less sugar, but has more intense flavor than ordinary ice cream". Aside from gelato, they also serve rice meals, sandwiches and pastas. 
Price Range : 200 PHP below for the food and 150 PHP below for the blended drinks
Address : Galeria Victoria Mall, Balanga
Facebook Page : Stregato Gelateria

Check out this posts by fellow bloggers on other places to eat in Bataan. 
Love Mindanao Deliciously Yours, Bataan
Blissful Bataan by Turista Trails

Where to stay in Bataan? Click here to check out my post! 

Should you need assistance in arranging your trip or getting additional information  to any of the destinations mentioned above, get in touch with the provincial tourism of Bataan.
Bataan Tourism Center (Balanga) - located along the Roman Highway, Bataan's major highway where public bus and vehicles pass by.  It more than just an office,  it's a destination itself, featuring a gallery, landscaped garden and souvenir shop
Email : bataan_tourism@yahoo.com
Contact Number : +63 (047) 237 4785
Facebook Page : Bataan Tourism
Website : 1Bataan

Other helpful blogs on Bataan (click on the links to get to their blogs) :
Travel Up : Bataan Travel Guide
Lakad Pilipinas : Bataan posts
Turista Trails : 5 Reasons Why Bataan Deserves your Visit More than Once(I agree!)
Byahe ni Drew also posted an itinerary here.

Acknowledgments : This post was made in collaboration with the Provincial Tourism of Bataan and Osprey Philippines. Thank you for hosting me! :) 

 If you know other places in Bataan for a good outdoor adventure, just send me a comment below or send me a tweet, @Jovialwanderer. I'm also on Instagram, click here to get to my feed directly.  :)
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Where to Stay in Bataan After an Adventure

April 25, 2016, 12:53 am
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Looking for a place to stay after hiking and traveling around Bataan? Check out this list! 

See related post : Where to go around Bataan? (includes hiking and biking destinations and suggestions on where to eat after!)

THE ORIENTAL (MARIVELES) 
The Oriental is a new hotel located within the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB), recommended for both business travelers and staycationers. With its location away from the noise of the main road, on top of a hill,  it offers views of Mariveles bay and its mountain range. It has 24 rooms and 8 different room types, its own bar, two restaurants - Cocoon restaurant and Forest Grill (to open soon) and an indoor and outdoor spa. We stayed here for a night when we covered the  11th Padyakan sa Bataan, an annual bike race organized by the provincial tourism office of Bataan.  My roomie couldn't make it  so I had two beds for myself. The room is cozy and with the heavy drapes, comfy couch, coffee and tea making facility,  I could stay here the entire day! :P My favorite part of the room though is the  backdoor exit that led to its lounge and circular pool. 
Pool area. Wish I was able to take a dip here!
The hotel is not accessible to public transpo and if bringing your own vehicle, there is a ample parking space. The hotel also offers shuttle services for those who are commuting. 

Rates : 5,000+ PHP/night (They're currently offering introductory rates from 3,000-4,000 PHP!) You can book through their website listed below. 
You can also get discounted room rates via Agoda, visit this link to book a room today. 
Amenities : Wi-Fi access, Cable TV, 24-hour security, In-room safe and Safety deposit box, In-room coffee and tea making facility, Hot and cold shower, Complimentary bottled water
Address : Freeport Area of Bataan Compound Brgy. Malaya, Mariveles Bataan
Contact Numbers : +63 (02) 536 1111 / (02 536 9999 / +63 906 223 4358
Other branches include The Oriental 
Website : http://www.bataan.theorientalhotels.com/
Reviews : You can also check out reviews by other guests on Trip Advisor by going to this link. 

Here are some more pictures of The Oriental :
The view at Forest Grill, one of the restaurants inside The Oriental Hotel in Mariveles
Two beds for me. I was given a Twin Deluxe that had a backdoor entrance going to the pool.
The rooms are actually more spacious than in the photo.
MT. TARAK GUEST HOUSE & RESTAURANT (MARIVELES) 
We had our dinner here and while waiting for our food, we were toured by their staff around the property. Behind the restaurant are two inviting pools, an adult and a kiddie pool and a few steps away is a cluster of small houses with air-conditioned rooms  for those spending a night. Since they were fully booked, we were not able to view any of the rooms but there are pictures on this blog.

About a hundred feet away, there is an enormous  space with two more bigger pools, cabanas and tables under a tree, a good venue for day trippers who want to relax with friends. I think all the space could accommodate about 100 people. 

one of the four pools at Mt. Tarak Guest House and Restaurant
During our visit, we chanced on several groups on a picnic and enjoying the pool but still, the entire place gave out a relaxing, quiet vibe. Perhaps, all the space and trees mitigated the noise. We also enjoyed the food here, a fusion of international cuisine. I love the paella, brocoli and mushroom with drowned in melted cheese and their specialty, a chicken dish called Pollo Iberico Antojo. 

Room Rates : 2,000 PHP for a solo room/ 2,500 PHP for a room with two beds
200 PHP for day trippers who want to use the swimming pool 
Address : Maap Road, Barangay Alas-asin, Mariveles, Bataan, Philippines
Contact Numbers : Mobile - +63 0917 534 28 87 | Landline -   +63 (047) 6121093 
Facebook Page : Mt. Tarak Guest House and Restaurant
Click here to book via  Agoda

CROWN ROYALE (BALANGA) 
Its decent accommodation and location, being very accessible to public transpo and other establishments are its main draw. Located along Capitol drive, a major road near the city center, this hotel  is close to  banks, spa, a convenience store, a branch of The Beanery (Bataan's famous cafe), Starbucks and Chowking (Chinese fastfood). It is less than 10 minutes away from the town plaza, Plaza Mayor Ciudad de Balanga and the city hall. 
Picture taken from the lobby, featuring the restaurant at Crown Royale. Photo taken by Kara Santos of traveling-up.com
2 beds for 1. My bedroom at Crown Royale
Rates : 
1,700 PHP for One Double Size Bed (1 double bed)
2,300 for Twin Deluxe (2 single beds)
*These are air conditioned rooms. Please confirm the rates when you inquire as this may change any time. 
Get discounted rates when you book via Agoda. Click here.
Address : Capitol Drive, San Jose, Balanga, Bataan
Website : http://crownroyalehotel.com/

THE PLAZA HOTEL (BALANGA) 
For a mix of business and pleasure, check out The Plaza, a hotel at the city center featuring 34 classy rooms. When we stayed here, my roomie and I, both avid hikers,  were given a  room with  a good mountain view. Checking the location from Google map, my guess is  it's Mt. Natib. (Tip : For a mountain view, ask for a room facing the Balanga cathedral, an 18th Century old church). The Plaza is  within the same complex as Plaza Mayor Ciudad de Balanga, a beautiful complex designed after the Plaza Mayor located in the  old city of Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Also within the complex are two restaurants serving good food, Cafe Kyoto (Japanese cuisine) and Stregato Gelateria. 
A view of Balanga cathedral and the rest of the town from our room at The Plaza.
our classy room at The Plaza
Rates :  room rates start at 3,200 PHP (Single/Double occupancy)
3,680 PHP (Plaza View Deluxe/Junior Suite)
4,960 PHP (Maria Clara/Ibarra/Presidential suite)
Address : Plaza Mayor de Ciudad de Balanga, Balanga City, Bataan
Contact Numbers : +63(047) 237 1037  - landline
+63 917 310 5083  / 0998 5411741 - mobile numbers
Website : http://www.theplazahotelbalanga.com/
Discounted rates offered here via Agoda.
A review of The Plaza is posted  here.

For a list of resorts in Bataan, check out this list from Out of Town. For more places to visit around Bataan, do check out this post from Love Mindanao. 

Acknowledgement : This post was made in collaboration with Osprey Packs Philippines and the Provincial Tourism office of Bataan. Thank you for showing us the beauty of Bataan! :) 

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Urban Adventure : Where to Go in Quezon City

April 28, 2016, 6:53 am
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On  a recent media familiarization tour with Microtel Philippines, I was able to revisit and discover new destinations in Quezon City. I'm sharing with you the places we visited, plus a few more recommendations for you fellow nature lovers and foodies! :) (I know this is not the ultimate list, please do let me know if there are other places worth checking out. ;))

Quezon Memorial Park/Quezon Memorial Circle (Diliman)
Managed by the local government of Quezon city,  it  is dedicated in honor of the first president of the Commonwealth of the Philippines, Manuel Quezon. Filled with tall trees, it is a good spot to run, bike or have a picnic. There is also sufficient parking space if bringing your own vehicle.   There are numerous picnic tables while others prefer to sit on the grassy area near its key feature, a  66 meter monument. At night, it lights up with a different combination of colors, making it even more visible from major roads near  the park. 
one of the numerous walkways inside Quezon Memorial Park
At the monument's base is a museum featuring memorabilia of the former president  and a mausoleum holding his remains and of his wife, Aurora. After going around, you can go shopping at the  souvenir center,get some refreshments from one of the  stalls selling coconuts and have a meal in one of the restaurants in the park. Entrance is free except if going to the amusement park. There is also a minimal parking fee (100 Pesos for buses, 20 Pesos for cars). Check out park fees here.
the 66 meter monument changing into  a combination of red and blue
Other parks in Quezon city include,Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife (you can drop by here when you go to Quezon Memorial Circle) and La Mesa Eco Park, which offers a lot of activities for the family and also has bike & trail running routes. 
Directions how to get here | Additional info on this website.)

Related read :  Makati Park & Garden and a boat ride on Pasig River

Quezon Heritage House (inside Quezon Memorial Circle) 
This is the  reconstructed vacation house of the late President Manuel L. Quezon, transferred from its original location in Gilmore St., New Manila. The project was a result of an agreement between the local government of Quezon city and the Quezon heirs, who donated some of the furniture on display here. 

Quezon City Experience (Diliman) 
Also within the vicinity of Quezon Memorial Park is Quezon City Experience or QCX, an interactive social museum featuring the history and culture of the city and its vision. All visits come with a free guided tour, taking at least an hour to complete its 16 galleries. (My favorite was the gallery featuring the city's urban legends :)) 

Operating Hours : 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM except Mondays
Fees : 
Students with ID – P80
Quezon City resident – P100 (must present valid ID with address)
Non-Quezon City resident – P150
Group of 50 – 20% discount
Group of 50 students – 30% discount
Senior citizens/Persons with disability/Solo parent – 20% discount
Family of 5 members – 20% discount

Free admission for children 6 years and below
See full feature on Rappler (click here)

UP Diliman Campus 
The state university has a lot of open spaces lined with huge trees that are accessible to the public. It is a very good spot to run, do a photowalk,bike or just relish the sight of greenery everywhere.  Sunken Garden is a huge grassy area where you can play team sports such as frisbee, rugby and football (I used to join an open group playing football here on weekends.) Also another beautiful spot in the campus is the Lagoon, an area filled with big trees and a swamp filled with lotus plants, creating a mysterious vibe. While I can imagine it as a good place for some quiet time, friends who studied here informed me that the place is more popularly known as a spot for lovers. 
The Lagoon in UP Diliman campus
Tip : Comfort rooms maybe a little challenging to find so better if you take your bathroom break before coming here. In case you can't hold it in, try the comfort room at Bahay ng Alumni along R. Magsaysay Ave. (You can also find Chocolate Kiss cafe here) or the restroom at the Church of the Holy Sacrifice. 

On Sundays, outsiders can also rent Japanese bikes through UP Bike Share, a student initiative promoting biking and environmental awareness, ran by the club with the same name. There are no fixed fees to rent out the bikes, any amount is accepted. To get more details, get in touch with them on Facebook, UP Bike Share.
Group shot in front of the Oblation with  Mike Laperal (UP Bike Share president)
& Elmo Mojares (Business Development officer)
Mystery Manila (Libis)
Test your problem solving skills  by working with your teammates in this themed escape room game.  If you are able to escape within 30 minutes, a token is given to each member of the team and your team name will be written on their wall of fame, along those who have completed it within significantly fast times. 
Group shot after we successfully got out of the escape room :)  (Photo from Marky of nomadicexperiences.com)
Rates :  starts at 400-550 PHP depending on number of players (Manila branches)
500-650 PHP (Boracay branch)
Number of Players Required : minimum of 2, maximum of 6 players
To book or get more information, check out their website, http://www.mysterymanila.com/
Facebook Page :Mystery Manila

Quezon City Food Trip?
Visit Maginhawa, a street known for its small restaurants and cafe. Over the years, nearby streets have also opened up, giving visitors more options.  Check out this guide from Travel Up.


If you're looking for a place that serves international food prepared the authentic way, I recommend Millie's All Day Dining located inside Microtel UP Ayala Techno Hub. :) 
Grilled pork chop with sauteed potatoes at Millie's All-day Dining 
Where to Stay in Quezon City?  
If you plan on spending the night in Quezon City, consider Microtel by Wyndham, a chain of hotels offering the same great quality in each location.  In the Philippines, it currently has 13 branches with two hotels in Quezon City,  Microtel UP Technohub, along Commonwealth Avenue and Microtel Acropolis, along E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue. Other than the assurance of offering quality service and accommodation at reasonable rates, it's their chiropractor approved mattresses that's so good to sleep in and makes you feel so refreshed after that I'm crazy about!  Also a big plus for me, being always thirsty, are the water dispensers where you can get as much drinking water as you need with no extra charge. 

Microtel UP Technohub - recommended for staycationers or those attending a function in Quezon City. It is also being booked for wedding shoots for its nice garden and pool area. 
Microtel UP Technohub's very spacious pool area, a very good place to hang out early in the morning or later in the evening. The pool is actually square shape and probably about 10 meters long. (Photo from Microtel PH website)
Address : UP-Ayala Land Technohub, Commonwealth Avenue, 
Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines  
Rates : Starts at 3,200+ PHP per  night depending on room type and when you book.  Discounted rates offered in Agoda. Click here.
Website : Microtel UP Technohub

Microtel Acropolis - Located just across Eastwood city, it is recommended for business travelers or those from out of town, running errands in the city.  I love their buffet breakfast,  offered by its partner restaurant, Silver Tie Cafe and Bistro, and is included in your overnight stay. 
Double queen room at Microtel Acropolis (Photo from Microtel PH website)
Address : E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave., Brgy. Bagumbayan, Quezon City
Rates : starts at 3,300+ PHP per  night depending on room type and when you book
Website :Microtel Acropolis
Other Microtel by Wyndham branches  : Baguio, Batangas, Boracay, Cabanatuan, Eagle Ridge Cavite, Davao, General Santos city, Mall of Asia (Manila), Palawan, South Forbes (Laguna) & Tarlac

For  bookings and more information, visit their website, Microtel Philippines.

Related Posts : 
Hassle Free Stays at Microtel by Pinoy Adventurista
Weekend Ideas in Quezon City by Outrigger PH

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Travel Wish List : Tangerang City, a Relaxing Stop after your Outdoor Adventures in Java, Indonesia

May 2, 2016, 12:08 am
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I live in the Philippines, an archipelago in Southeast Asia with lots of forests, scenic mountain views and where the sun joyfully blasts its rays almost the entire year. While I have taken the time exploring  my home (and there's still more to visit!),  I do get curious about other countries, especially our Asian neighbors. One country that has caught my interest for its outdoor destinations and the awesome fact that I don't need a visa for a visit is, Indonesia! :) Seeing photos from friends who have traveled here, its tourism tagline, Wonderful Indonesia seems like a very fitting description of what it can offer to nature lovers like me.
Screenshot from @indtravel, the official Instagram account of
 Indonesia Ministry Tourism where you can get ideas on where to go.
Since it'll be my first visit to Indonesia, an archipelago country that has over 17,000 islands (Source : CIA Fact Book) and exploring with limited time, I am carefully considering where to go. While I've come up with my initial hiking list which includes, Mt. Bromo in East Java, I am also checking out possible stops to complete my itinerary. 

Related Post : Check out my hiking adventures here.

One of the cities that came up is Tangerang City in the province of Banten. The nearest airport, also  in the same city is Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (IATA code, CGK), which serves those traveling to Greater Jakarta on the island of Java. To give you a perspective on its location, here's a map. 

Tangerang is known as an industrial and manufacturing hub. What got me curious about this city, you ask? It's for the simple reason that I don't know much about it nor do I know anyone who has visited the city! :P That means my eyes are not yet overly exposed to all the things I am about to see, which is refreshing. :)

Here is a list of destinations in and around Tangerang. I've only relied on the internet so please drop a comment  below if you have a recommendation. :) 

BENTENG HERITAGE MUSEUM 
Opened in 2011, the museum is in a  restored 2-storey 17th century style, Peranakan house, located at Pasar Lama Market, which I also want to check out  (exploring a market and all its stalls is an adventure on its own). It contains artifacts showcasing Chinese culture from 17th-19th century. It is also serves as a venue for Peranakan culinary festivals, wedding & fashion shows and community gatherings. 

Entrance fee  is from Rp. 25,000 to Rp. 125,000 per person, prices vary if you want to include a Peranakan meal.  To read  reviews on Trip advisor, click here.

*Peranakan refers to descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled and married  locals in Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia from the 10th Century to present. (Source : Encyclopedia of the Peoples of Asia and Oceania)

AL-AZHOM MOSQUE
an imposing structure and place of worship located near the City Hall and the Balekota Mall,  about 30 minutes from the international airport. I could not find a lot of information online with an English translation so I'd probably have to inquire when I get there. :P 

PARI ISLAND 
Not popular to  travelers, Pari island is an ideal beach escape if you're after some peace and quiet. Its name, Pari means "Ray fish". Early settlers trying to escape forced labor from Dutch colonists  saw many ray fish in its waters when they first came in, thus naming the island after the sea animal. (Source :Wonderful Indonesia)

Activities in the island include swimming, diving, fishing and snorkeling. Also worth visiting is a white sand beach,Pantai Pasir Perawan (Virgin beach). Although there is electricity, there are no hotels or resorts in the area, just homestays. Its description reminds me of a similar place here in the Philippines, Palaui island. (Post here) 

Getting around is through a bicycle which can be rented Rp. 15,000/hr or Rp 30,000
for the day. The island can be reached via three ports. However, the shortest travel is from Muara Saban Cituis Port in Tangerang, taking 1-1.5 hours

For photos and travel information on Pari Island, visit the official tourism website of Indonesia here. 

DINING & SHOPPING 
For outdoor dining and live music, Summarecon Mal Serpong at Sentra Gading Serpong is a promising destination. AEON Mall also, a Japanese themed mall at Jl. BSD Raya Utama is recommended for those who crave for Japanese food, if you don't have the budget or time to go to Japan yet. :P

WHERE TO STAY IN TANGERANG? 
Find best hotel through booking site, Traveloka. Here you can also book, Novotel Tangerang, a 4-star hotel, 45 minutes from Jakarta.  Summarecon Mal Serpong, the shopping mall I mentioned above is only 5.89 Kilometers away.
Screenshot of the pool from Novotel Tangerang from booking site, Traveloka
If you have other suggestions on other places (I'm looking for more outdoor destinations!), just leave a comment below or send me a  tweet, @jovialwanderer. Please also visit my Instagram account, @Jovialwanderer, I share a lot about hiking spots and food there! :P 





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Human Nature Save Our Seas Coastival 2016

May 10, 2016, 3:12 am
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Last April 29, I participated in the 1st S.O.S (Save Our Seas) Coastival in San Juan, La Union. Organized by Human Nature, the country's largest manufacturer of natural personal care, this one day event was dubbed as an eco-friendly version of "Laboracay", the massive summer celebration that happens in Boracay island every Labor Day weekend. 
Arrival in Urbiztondo beach in time to witness a beautiful sunrise
Conservationists, fellow bloggers and other members of the media helped in building a sand art led by muralist and climate justice advocate, AG Sano, aka the Dolphin Guy (Story here).  The 180 meter long sand art was built  along Urbiztondo beach with the "leave no trace principles" in mind, using only sand, water and recycled wood rakes. Its creation was a call to encourage every Filipino to do their share in saving our Philippine seas. 

Responsible Travel Tip #1 : Use products with ingredients that won't harm the ocean. Most synthetic suncreens that contain ingredients like parabens, oxybenzone and benzonphenone can bleach corals within just 96 hours of exposure. Coral bleaching, which is primarily caused by global warming, drives away algae that gives corals its color and may also lead to its death. (More info here.) 
AG Sano (in blue shirt) creating the outline 
After having breakfast at Urbiz Garden, we headed to the beach and assisted in reinforcing the outline of the sand art. While we were building it, I couldn't envision the outcome even as it was described to us. We were on a massive beach, raking sand and pouring water on it while the sun was merrily blasting. We stopped working on it a little before 9:00 AM as the heat became unbearable. We were told that we were resuming around 4:00 PM. 

I was happy for some down time as this gave us time to just enjoy the beach and mingle. We left Manila at 1:30 AM and none of us had a proper sleep. 

(Heading to the beach soon? Check out cool new summer shades from Ray Ban available at ZALORA)
Lazing on the beach :) 
Responsible Travel Tip #2 :Bring your own water bottle/container. Not only will it save you some money, you will be able to help reduce waste. 

Aside from participating in the sand art, we listed to performances by local artists  such as Paola Mauricio and Yellow Submarine.  There were also low environmental impact beach activities such as yoga, capoeira and poi.

Responsible Travel Tip #3 : When you spot a sea turtle/pawikan, an endangered specie, leave them alone. Do not come closer to avoid disrupting them from laying their eggs. Sea turtles eat jellyfish and keep their numbers at bay, allowing us humans to wade in the water. 

I  recently discovered that yoga is a good complement to swimming, my new sport, so I decided to join the session by Corey Wills. It's  only my second formal yoga class, since birth :P and  I suffered on the earlier parts. My face contorted like I've just seen a platter of crispy bacon get thrown in the garbage. It was tough, especially since my back muscles seem to be entangled and it's just painful to hold on to some of the poses, but when we finished, I felt refreshed and the tightness on my upper back caused by swimming had disappeared. 
Our yoga session with Corey Wills. Photo from Human Nature
After the activities, we gathered to the beach to work on some finishing touches on the sand art. Due to the heat, we needed to pour some water on the outlines so it can be more visible when the drone pass over it.
The 180 meter sand art. We're standing at the "O" part as the drone flew over us for  this 
monumental shot.  (Photo fr Human Nature)

Even as the sand art was finished, I couldn't picture what it was the we helped create - well, not until we finally saw the drone shot and saw how beautifully it turned out.  In retrospect, our work with the sand art is similar to how we can contribute to saving the environment. If each person did their share, our collective efforts  could lead to bigger and more effective results. :) 

The S.O.S Coastival 2016 was initiated  by Human Nature in partnership with WWF Philippines, CURMA (Coastal Underwater Resource Management Actions), Save Philippine Seas and La Union Soul, an eco tourism movement by the local community. 

More tips on how to be a more eco-friendly traveler ->  17 Incredibly Easy Things You can Do to be a More Eco-Friendly Traveler

Sharing with you a video of the highlights at the 1st Human Nature S.O.S. Coastival : 

Where to buy environment-friendly personal care products?
For reef-friendly sunscreen and non toxic personal care products, visit Human Nature's website here.

Where to stay in La Union?
We stayed for a night in Chill'N, a new inn in San Juan, located 10 minutes on foot from Urbiztondo beach. It has its own pool, air conditioned rooms. 

Chill'N 
Brgy. Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union, Philippines 
For rates, get in touch with them through their facebook page, : http://www.facebook.com/chillnhotel/
Contact Numbers : 
+63 917 575 0414 (Mobile)
+63 (072) 252 25 33 (Landline)




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Advocacy : Cebu Pacific Partners with UNICEF for Children's Health & Nutrition

June 24, 2016, 8:15 pm
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While I believe we make our own destiny and that we all have equal chances at succeeding in life, it does help when we're equipped with the physical and mental capacity to be the best that we can be. Sadly, many children are not given the adequate nourishment, which leads to stunting (read here), a condition that  impacts a child's physical and mental health and development. Its adverse impact carries on until adult life, impacting their ability to stay healthy, learn more and earn more. While the effects are irreversible, it is preventable. Here's how you can help. 

Starting July 1, 2016, passengers in all Cebu Pacific flights from Manila hub will be given an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of underprivileged children by donating any amount during their flight through UNICEF's "Change for Good" Program. 
 Cebu Pacific President & CEO Lance Gokongwei and UNICEF Representative Lotta Sylwander.
(Photo from Stratworks)
"Change for Good  is  a global partnership between UNICEF and the international airline industry". Established in 1987,  the program aims to collect donations from passengers to be able to provide materials and services for vulnerable children in more than 150 countries. One of its programs, the First 1,000 Days Health and Nutrition is Cebu Pacific's chosen beneficiary for the Change for Good partnership. This initiative aims to provide proper health and nutrition to children and their mothers on the first 1000 days, a crucial point in a child's well-being and development,  spanning from a mother's pregnancy until the child reaches 2 years old.  (Are you a new mother? Read about the importance of a child's first 1000 days here)

Learn more about chronic malnutrition on Rappler.

Now, imagine if all children are given the adequate nutrition and assistance to help them succeed in life? What a better nation we could build together!

Cebu Pacific is the first airline partner of UNICEF’s  Change for Good program in the entire Southeast Asia. During the flight, after the onboard games, the crew will invite passengers to make a donation. Any amount from any currency is welcome! :) 
UNICEF Ambassador Gary Valenciano and Celebrity Advocate for Children Anne Curtis
with the Cebu Pacific cabin crew  during the launch of Change for Good (Photo from Stratworks)
The program will be initially rolled out for Cebu Pacific Manila hub before being implemented for the rest of the airline's hubs around the Philippines. 

If you're not flying soon, you can still donate or get more information on UNICEF's First 1000 Days Health & Nutrition Program through, 1000days.unicef.ph. 

Cebu Pacific Air, now on its 20th year of operations,  is the largest carrier in the Philippines air transportation industry , offerings its low-cost services to more destinations and routes with higher flight frequency within the Philippines than any other airlines. To book a flight, visit Cebu Pacific. (Side story: This is the airline that made it possible for me to travel extensively around the Philippines when I was in my mid 20s, through  its generous seat sales. Back then, I can get a round trip fare for as low as 56 Pesos!)



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