A trusted Philippine travel blog with detailed guides, hidden gems, and cultural stories from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao’s 82 provinces.
My plan for the first week of January 2017 was to travel and visit all the islands of Romblon, capture stunningly gorgeous photos, and publish them. What a good coincidence, my first photo for 2017 is not about a gorgeous tourist spot or historical landmark – it is about love. These photos were taken when I was en route to Romblon, inside a RoRo vessel, traveling on the Romblon straight, with not-so-calm weather.
Naga City is famous in terms of religious fluvial procession that usually starts and ends at a church. Speaking of which, did you know that Bicol region also has its 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 I was able to capture this gorgeous church. I did research online and found out that this church was erected in 1578. Same as with the other old churches in the Philippines, it was made up of bamboo, wood, then reconstructed into a brick structure in the 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 interrogation and persecution site during the Spanish colonization in the Philippines.
Two days ago, when I noticed that the moon had extraordinary brilliance, and just today, I accidentally saw a 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.
November 2015, I celebrated my birthday on the summit of Mt. Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines. 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.
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.
Hiking to the summit of Mt. Apo - it was the longest night I've ever had. When I woke up around 1 AM, I did not fall asleep for some reason. The wind was strong, and as it penetrated the fabric of the tent and hit my skin, it was like a knife that cuts because of its temperature. We were also bothered by the bad weather that might affect our ascent to the summit.
The sulfur vents of Mt. Apo are one of its most striking natural features, emitting steam and a distinct smell as hikers approach the summit. These vents, found along the rocky sections of the trail, reveal the mountain's volcanic origins and offer a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere. Surrounded by yellow-stained rocks and rising mist, the area showcases the raw geothermal power beneath the surface. Trekkers often pause here to marvel at nature’s intensity and snap dramatic photos. It's a thrilling reminder of the mountain's living, breathing presence.
If you’re into hiking and mountaineering, Mt. Apo must be part of your bucket list. It is the tallest mountain in the Philippines, lying in a few provinces in Mindanao. This photo was captured on November 6, 2015, during our three-day Mt. Apo expedition. In the background is a wide carrot plantation with a thick fog formation.
Aside from mountains, historical and heritage sites are also part of my blog posts. I believe that we can’t reach our stage today without the richness of the past. In this modern generation, it’s hard to promote history and how we can preserve it; simple things like cap designs can make a difference. When I saw the Supremo cap online, distributed by Street Style Originals, I was thinking that it could create a huge impact on the youth.
Vans shoes are a timeless staple in streetwear and skate culture, known for their iconic designs, durable canvas material, and grippy waffle soles. Originally designed for skateboarders in the 1960s, Vans have since become a global fashion statement, loved for their comfort and versatility. From classic slip-ons to high-top Sk8-His, the brand blends functionality with bold style. Their wide range of colors and collaborations appeals to both trendsetters and casual wearers. Whether on a board or on the street, Vans continue to make every step effortlessly cool.
