Places to Visit in Zambales

Just recently, the province of Zambales became more popular because of the issue about the West Philippine Sea arbitration case with China. The long stretch of shoreline, facing the West Philippine Sea, has fine white sand, the water is crystal clear, the ambiance is absolutely refreshing, and more to offer. Having said that, since it is already considered as tourist destinations, beach resorts created variety of water activities like scuba diving. Here are just some of the famous beaches in Zambales:

Places to Visit in Tarlac

 The province of Tarlac is situated in Central Luzon, surrounded by the provinces of Zambales, Pangasinan, and Nueva Ecija; a 2 to 3 hours travel from Metro Manila. Tarlac is also one of the provinces that hold a huge part in Philippine history. When I visited part of this province, the wide rice fields and mountainous areas are very noticeable. The entire area, even the city, is surrounded by the relaxing green colors. Photo above is the St. Michael The Archangel Parish Church or the Camiling Parish Church.

Giant Lantern Festival in Pampanga

The Giant Lantern Festival is an annual festivities held in December in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines. The festival features a competition of giant lanterns. Because of the popularity of the festival, the city has been nicknamed the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines".

Places to Visit in Bataan

Historically speaking, Bataan is one of the provinces in the Philippines that has a huge contribution to Philippine history, political or not. Bataan belongs to Region 3 or commonly known as the Central Luzon provinces. This province is separated by Manila de Bay from NCR and Cavite. During my visit in the province, I noticed that the people are accommodating and are living in simple way. Aside from that, Bataan also has a lot to offer in terms of tourist destinations. Let’s start with:

Old Churches in Bicol - a Must Visit

Naga City is famous in terms of religious fluvial procession that usually starts and ends to a church. Speaking of which, did you know that Bicol region also has their own historical and heritage churches? Let’s start with the San Francisco Church in Naga City. I wasn’t able to touch or enter this old structure because we literally passed by this church. Good thing that my shutter was quick and was able to capture this gorgeous church. I did a research online and found out that this church was erected in 1578. Same as with the other old church in the Philippines, it was made up of bamboo, wood then reconstructed into a brick in 17th century. The structure that we are seeing today was constructed in 1957, after  the Second World War. Historically speaking, the church’s parish served as the interrogration and persecution site during the Spanish colonization in the Philippines.

Aim For 81 Project

Aim for 81 is my personal agenda for the next few years. Its main purpose is to Save money to be used for visiting and discovering the hidden treasures that can be found in the 81 Provinces in the Philippines. I totally understand that it will not be as easy as with my previous backpacking but, I will give the entire 2017 for my preparation.

Best Bicolano Delicacies

When we visited Caramoan islands in Camarines Sur, Bicol region, tasting their very own and unique delicacies was part of our itinerary. I am not chef or a cook but according to some friends, I have good and active taste buds. So for the first time I will be a food critic. First is the famous Laing. This is a spicy dish with dried taro leaves, siling labuyo, and coconut milk as the main ingredients.There's a linamanam factor and the texture is smooth inside my mouth.

Caramoan | Camping by the Ocean

Caramoan became popular in the world when few of the Survivor franchise had their challenges on some of its islands. This beauty is situated in the far side of Camarines Sur, almost twelve hours form Manila via land. But the stress you’ll feel because its half day travel will be replaced with enjoyment – thanks to the beauty of Caramoan. Here’s our story:

The Heart Shape of Manlawi Sandbar

Manlawi Sandbar is one of the “must visit” in Caramoan. This sandbar has an amazing shape, sometimes forming a heart, that captures most of the tourists eyes. However, visiting Manlawi sandbar is very crucial because it literally disappears during high-tide. Our bangkero knows the accurate time (12NN), so we experienced its goodness for thirty minutes.

Amazing Rock Formation of Minalahos Island

 Minalahos is a small island in Caramoan group of islands. It has a limited space for visitors due to its undersized shore line but the shape and rock formations are stunningly gorgeous. The plants and hanging on the rocks also added a beautiful landscape. If you’re fond of rock scrambling, I highly suggest to bring outdoor sandals for the sharp edges of the boulders.

The Long Stretch of Fine White Sand in Sabitang Laya

 The island of Sabitang Laya is one of the Caramoan islands. It is typically almost the same as the other islets; it has a crystal clear waters, amazing rock formation but the only difference is that it has longer stretch of fine white sand. By the shoreline, there’s a wide stretch of greeneries with trees and grasses.

Lahos Island and its Fine White Sand

Lahos island is one of the prominent among the Caramoan group of islands because of its amazing rock formation, fine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. On top view, it appears like a two boulders on the waters connected by the white sand. Don't mind the dried sea weeds in the area because we visited this island after or while the typhoon Marce is still inside Philippine Area of Responsibility, so the water wasn't calm. It was already tiring so we went back to the mainland for our lunch.

The Mystical Creature of Matukad Island, Caramoan

Matukad Island is special among other islands in Caramoan because of its long stretch of fine white sand, crystalline water, surrounded by greeneries and the wind is delicate, cool and fresh. Instead of renting an air-conditioned room at Brgy. Paniman, we camped by the beach and stayed here for about twelve hours, enjoying its goodness.

3B Rest House, Antipolo City

Tara na sa Antipolo!! Planning to go out of town? How far will you go when you say “Out of Town?” It’s not clear right? Geographically speaking, can we consider Rizal province as “Out of Town?” These questions give me a headache. Anyways, we had our team building at 3B Rest House - one of the rest houses in Antipolo City, where the Metro Manila’s golden skyline can be seen.

Waiting for the Supermoon

Two days ago when I noticed that the moon has an extraordinary brilliance and just today, I accidentally saw Supermoon article online. So I searched and here's what I found on Wikipedia. A Supermoon is the coincidence of a full moon or a new moon with the closest approach the Moon makes to the Earth on its elliptical orbit, resulting in the largest apparent size of the lunar disk as seen from Earth. According to NASA: "When a full moon makes its closest pass to Earth in its orbit it appears up to 14 percent bigger and 30 percent brighter, making it a supermoon." The next Beaver Supermoon that's this close and full will be on Nov. 25, 2034.

Ilo-Ilo and the Wealth from the Past

Miag-Ao Church

Miag-Ao Church - the construction of this church began in 1787 while Fray Francisco M. Gonzales. O.S.A. was the parish priest of Miag-ao and Domingo Libo-on  was the Gobernadorcillo. The Church was completed in 1797 and it served as the fortress against Muslim Raiders. In 1898, during the revolution, this church was destroyed but then it was rebuilt. In 1910, it was damaged by fine, and then it was badly damaged by earthquake in 1948. Restoration work began in 1960 and was completed in 1962. During the term of office of the Most Rev. Dr. Jose Ma. Cuenco, D.D. Metropolitan Archbishop of Jaro, of Msgr. Fernando S. Javillo, D.P., Parish Priest of this town and Dioscoro Mueda, Municipal Mayor. More photos, click here.

Thanks for the Greetings and Support

November 7, 2015, same day as today, I celebrated my birthday on the summit of the highest mountain in the Philippines – Mount Apo. It was the most unforgettable adventure in my twenty something years of  existence. I am still aiming for more! More travel for the next few years. Sa lahat ng mga bumati ngayong araw ng aking kapanganak, sa aking pamilya, sa aking mga kaibigan, sa mga taong walang humpay ang pagsuporta – MARAMING SALAMAT PO! Pipilitin kong magampanan ang mga tungkuling nakaatang sa aking mga balikat para sa ikauunlad ng ating sambayanan.

Tourist Spots in Silay City

Balay Negrense

Balay Negrense is one of the century old houses along Cinco de Noviembre Street, Silay City. This street is remarkable because of the historical value that transpires to the people. Balay Negrense is a Hiligaynon phrase which means: Balay or a house and Negrense refers to the people living in the province of Negros. It is a century old house in Silay City owned by Victor Fernandez Gaston, the eldest son of a prominent sugar baron Yves Leopold Germain Gaston and Prudencia Fernandez. It was built between 1897 to 1901, then abandoned in the mid-1970’s, repaired by the government and was inaugurated on October 6, 1990. More photos, click here.

Getting Wet during Higantes Festival

Higantes Festival is an annual festivities held every November 23 in Angono, Rizal; its main purpose is to honor San Clemente, patron saint of the fishermen. His image is carried by male devotees during the procession, followed by the street dancers and participants. Higantes (Giants in English) is made up of paper mosaic handcrafted by the artistic minds of the people of Angono.

Boracay Island: Travel Guide

The Philippines is composed of thousands of islands and surrounded by waters but one island stand out among the others - that's Boracay Island. This island is really one of the prides of the Philippines in terms of outstanding beaches across the globe. Just recently, I received inquiries from foreign readers of Sirang Lente on how to get to Boracay, what are the activities that can be tried, and asking for recommendations for hotels in this gorgeous island. Now, I am re-posting these amazing photos captured from the worlds finest island – Boracay Island.

Digging the History of Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery

Today, I can feel the Halloween season; at the office we're already preparing for an amazing costume party with the touch of Disney characters and while searching for a stunning outfit, I encountered a photo of the oldest cemeteries in the Philippines - the reason why I am now posting these photos taken at Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery, in 2014.

A Small but Terrible Mount Damas

Until now, Mount Damas is still in debate if it’s really a minor or a major climb. Others would say it’s minor because of its elevation and others would say its a major one because of its trail type and technicalities. During our ascent, the entire journey was composed of an assault and river crossing. This mountain is also the home of eatas who protect the forest from illegal activities.

On the Summit of Mount Apo | Day 3

It was the longest night I ever had. When I woke up at around 1AM I did not fall asleep for some reason. The wind was strong and as it penetrates inside the tent and hits my skin, it was like a knife that cuts and makes a wound because of its temperature and we were also bothered by the bad weather that might affect our ascend to the summit.

Mt. Apo and the Sulfur Vents

This photo was captured at Mount Apo's sulfur vents. This spot is stunningly gorgeous because of the huge white boulders and the patches of yellow sulfur on the surface. Mt. Apo is one of mountains in the Philippines with such kind of feature. More photos? Click here.

Mt. Apo and the Wealth on the Trail

If you’re into hiking and mountaineering, Mount Apo must be part of your bucket list. Apo is the tallest mountain in the Philippines lying on few provinces in Mindanao.This photo was captured on November 6, 2015 during our three day Mt. Apo expedition. On the background is a wide carrot plantation with a thick fog formation. More photos? Click here.

San Sebastian | The Church Made of Steel

After meeting up at TIP Manila for my cap distributed by Street Style Originals, my plan was to visit Paco Cemetery but due to unfriendly weather condition, I opted to visit San Sebastian Church, just few meters away. For the second time, when I entered the church, I was still fascinated by its uniqueness; from the walls, columns, floor, glass chandeliers, cabinets and others look really stunning.

Street Style Originals Promotes the Philippines

Aside from mountains, historical and heritage sites are also part of my blog post. I believe that we can’t reach our stage today without the richness of the past. This modern generation, it’s hard to promote history and how we can preserve them; but simple things can make a difference. When I saw Supremo cap online, distributed by Street Style Originals, I was thinking that it can create a huge impact to the youth.

Oh My Vans!

My original plan was to buy a pair of Merrell sneakers but due to unavailability of the item at Robinson's Metro East department store , I chose Vans classic shoes. Looks great right?

Changing BIR RDO

February 24, 2014 – I processed my employment documents that include Pag-Ibig or HDMF and my tax updates (RDO and Tax Exemp.) I am working for more than five years now and it was my first time to process these documents and it wasn’t a good experience, so I want to share it with you.  Since I previously worked for a BPO in Mandaluyong City  with RDO: 041, I proceeded to BIR Office in Boni to have my BIR Form 1905 Stamped. But, upon submitting it to the clerk, he informed me that my record was already with RDO: 43A in Shaw (near SSS and Pag-Ibig). So I rode on MRT from Boni to MRT Shaw, then on Shaw boulevard, I rode in a jeepney with “Pasig, Palengke” signage. Get off in front of Pag-Ibig Bldg. (second Stop Light). Crossed the footbridge where BIR is located. Got queue number from the guard and waited for my turn. 

Great Outdoor Adventure at TAC Attack 5

Tanay Adventure Camp

If you’re looking for an adventure, Tanay Adventure Camp is one perfect places that you can visit, near Manila. In 2014, I was invited to join TAC Attack, an annual anniversary celebration held at their camp. This year, a lot of activities were added to their itinerary, such as the ultra-marathon and outdoor cook fest.

Ready to Drink Cocktails in a Pouch

The new style of drinking a cocktail

At the supermarket, I was walking by the Liquor section when something got my attention - it’s GAZ Ready to Drink Cocktails in a pouch, it’s like Zesto juice drink. It’s a mix of Apple, Honey dew, melon and Vodka; 14 Proof and 7% Alcohol by Volume. I'm curious about it so I purchased one. The taste is really good and it's like the real cocktails that you order in the bar.

81 Provinces ng Pilipinas Muna Bago Pag-aasawa

Photo taken on boulders of Mt. Apo

Tumawag ako sa aking Minamahal na Nanay na kasalukuyang nasa Romblon. Napag-usapan namin ang iba’t-ibang mga bagay tungkol sa aming pamilya ngunit bago matapos ang aming usapan at mag-goodbye, isang tanong ang kanyang nabitawan para sa akin: “kailan ka mag-aasawa? Dapat mag-asawa kana!” Pagkarinig ko sa kanyang tanong, agad akong natahimik at napa-isip, “oo nga naman, malapit na akong lumagpas sa numero ng isang buwan sa kalendaryo, dapat mag-isip na ako to settle.”

Processing my NBI Clearance

I processed my  NBI Clearance yesterday and change just came! My original plan yesterday was just to make payment at LBC in Robinsons Metro East. But since NBI transaction was OFFLINE, I proceeded to the NBI at the 4th Floor and ask if what are the other payment channels that I can choose for payment and the polite guards said that I can make a payment at the NBI Counter - Step 1, which I did.

27th Philippine Travel Mart

Just got home from a biggest Travel Mart at SM Mall of Asia Convention Center. I brought everything, like water and food, because already expected that this event will be a challenging one. I saw thousand of attendees at this travel convention because it will only last for three days (September 2-4, 2016).

The Taste of a Korean Ramyun

Today is the first day of September 2016. It’s already BER months, meaning holiday is coming to town. Since it's holiday, I will be now posting foods in Sirang Lente, starting with the famous Ramyun. It started when Korean drama got my interest, from Descendants of the Sun, Doctors, W, Cinderella and the Four Knights and many more. Kimchi, Korean noodles and Soju are always part of their eating and drinking scenes, so I tried these. On the first try I easily thought that the taste is unique and really good.

Treasure Inside Quezon Memorial Circle

For others, they find Quezon Memorial Circle as their perfect place for jogging, meeting someone, other activities, and the perfect spot for Pokemon Go gamer as their lure location but for me – this landmark commemorates the significance of the late President Manuel L. Quezon and the Commonwealth of the Philippines. I have visited this park several times, but it’s my second time entering the museum. Photos below will show what’s inside the museum.

Change The Way You See Happiness

Most of the parents taught their children to study well to get a brighter future, agree? To make them happy, I studied well resulting to excellent grades. The time I accepted my diploma and medals, I witnessed how my parents became emotional on stage. May Mom was smiling but there are tears on her eyes. I don’t have children yet but I know that for parent’s perspective, seeing their children on a graduation is such a rewarding moment that gives them real happiness.

Photobomer sa Likod ng Quezon City Circle

Habang naglalakad sa Quezon City Circle kahapon, sa unang pagkakataon nakita ko ang napakagandang arkitektura ng bantayog sa parkeng ito, ngunit nalungkot ako sa aking nakita. Kung natatandaan natin, naging isang malaking issue ang pag develop ng isang higanteng gusali na tinawag pang dakilang photobomber sa likod ng bantayog ni Rizal sa Luneta Park. Ang larawan sa itaas ang magpapatunay na hindi lang pala ang Luneta Park ang may ganitong suliranin gayudin ang promenenteng bantayog ng Siyudad ng Quezon.

Five Mountains for Beginners near Manila

Here are Five of the mountains near Manila recommended for beginners: first, Mt. Batulao is one of the famous destinations for the hikers and adventurer seekers. This mountain lies on Southern Luzon and 2-3 hours travel from the Manila and very accessible to both private and public vehicles.  Batulao has a gorgeous ranges and slopes; its amazing shape is covered with luscious green grasses and trees making it so relaxing in the eyes. Its  trail is simple to moderate. More gorgeous photos and useful information here: Mount Batulao.

Change The Way You See Beauty

photo taken 3 years ago

The Philippines is colonized by different countries, having said that, most of us would think that the definition of beauty is showcasing a pointed nose, gorgeous smile, tantalizing eyes, amazing cheek bone,  fair complexion, wide shoulder, has vital statistics of 36-24-36, and at least five feet and seven inches tall. If you’re aiming for a Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss International, Bb. Pilipinas and other modelling titles then you need those qualities. But remember, beauty never ends with those titles!

Mt. Pico de Loro and the Parrot's Peak

Mount Pico de Loro is also known as Mount  Palay-palay; its name was given by the Spanish  sea-fairer because it resembles the appearance  of a ‘parrot’s beak’ from afar. This mountain bears a lot in terms of natural  beauty and richness. While on the trail, I saw  different flora and fauna; from the colorful  ornamental plants to hard trees. I also heard birds  singing lullaby while I was walking in emo.

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Mt. Pulag: Hiking Guide

I personally consider Mt. Pulag as one of the most beautiful mountains in the Philippines, therefore, you should include this on your Must Hiked list. It is the third highest mountain in the country and the highest point in Luzon, measures 2,922 MASL. Mt. Pulag has the famous “sea of clouds” that attracts many tourist. This is a majestic phenomenon where the hikers, on the summit, are literally above the clouds.

Mt. Ugo Traverse | Nueva Vizcaya to Benguet

Traversing Mt. Ugo is a bit long because it is one of the giants in Luzon. Our traverse was a two-day hiking itinerary from Brgy. Kayapa, Nueva Vizacaya to Itogon, Benguet. The terrain has a relaxing and cool ambiance, surrounded by stunning greens. Ugo, others call it Mt. Ugu, bears colorful ornaments spread on the trails and hanging on the trees. Of course, there are birds singing their lullabies. Definitely one of the must visit attractions and destinations in Benguet.

Mt. Buntot Palos and the Hidden Falls

Ang Mount Buntot Palos ay isa lamang sa mga kabundukan ng Laguna na kung saan natatago ang magagandang tanawin at water falls. Ito ay matatapuan sa Brgy. Balian, Pangil, Laguna; higit kumulang tatlong oras na byahe mula sa magulong buhay sa Kamaynilaan.

Mt. Ulap and the Ocean of Clouds | BHM on 6th

Mt. Ulap is situated in Brgy. Ampucao, Itogon Benguet. It is one of the highest peaks in the Cordillera regions with amazing flora and fauna. Because of its temperature, the trees, grass and flowers looks so healthy making the mountain looks gorgeous. 

Mt. Talamitam | Batang Hamog 3rd Year Anniversary

Original plan was Mount Maculot, but two days before the climb, it was changed to Mount Talamitam in Nasugbu, Batangas. It reaches 630+ MASL with a gorgeous ambiance on top and its one hundred meters assault to the summit added an amazing experience to the hikers. Mount Batulao and Mount Pico de Loro were just two of the well known mountains nearby.

Mt. Pundaquit traverse to Anawangin Cove

It was in 2012, four years and two months ago, when I started hiking and reached the summit of Mt. Pundaquit in San Antonio, Zambales. As what others say: “first time is always the hardest” so I also consider this as the most challenging hike in my twenty seven years of existence. My digital camera was still the older version, but the memories are remarkable.

Mt. Mabilog and Pandin Lake

Mt. Mabilog is situated in the Laguna. This mountain measures 441 MASL and serves as the boundary of the towns of San Pablo and Nagcarlan, Laguna. This mountain lies and surrounded by the legendary lakes, which adds an amazing views from the summit. This mountain is smaller than the Mounts Banahaw and Cristobal, but contains gorgeous background. It’s part of our Batang Hamog Climb for the Independence 2014.

Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery: Laguna

Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery is considered as National Historical Landmark located in Nagcarlan, province of Laguna. It is a burial site which is 15 meters below a small chapel; a chapel which was designed for funeral masses in 1845 by Franciscan Priests lead by Fr. Vicente Velloc. If in other parts of the Philippines, their burial sites are hanging (Ifugao), in the cave (Palawan) and concrete crypt (in modern era.) This burial site is unique because of its architectural design and purpose.

Mt. Romelo and Buruwisan Falls: Laguna

The province of Laguna is lying and is part of the southern Luzon region. This province, together with Batangas and Cavite, is one of the centers for mountaineering because of its gorgeous flora and fauna; like Mt. Romelo which is situated in Siniloan, Laguna. This mountain bears a lot in terms of natural beauty and greatness. Let’s start with the amazing and cool ambiance, refreshing green surroundings, fresh air, and the fantastic lashing waterfalls.