My 2014 Journey

As I reflect on 2014 in its last few hours, I am filled to the brim with gratitude.

Today’s entry is a round up of everything, everywhere I went in 2014, along with a few lessons and comments. There were some rough times this year, that's to be sure, but it’s not just about looking back, it is also a time for me to look forward and think about my life and the journey i created.

First and foremost, I want to thank everyone who takes the time to read my stories and journeys. And to my family , wife, kids, and friends for being a part of my journey. I hope it inform and inspire you to get out and see the world.

So here it is, some of my highlights from 2014. May 2015 bring as much joy, excitement, fulfillment and peace to everyone. I hope to see the world Soon...

*A memorable climb to Mt. Maranat with my high school classmates. You can read the full story here. A climb where lifelong friendships were rekindle, love for travel and nature,and a lifetime’s worth of memories were made.Thank you 4-1 for joining me in this journey , your simply the best.

*A historic journey to the province of nueva ecija. My special thanks to Anne, Kap Isko and jackie for being a part of this journey. You can read my story here and here.

*I accomplished my biggest goal of the year, to travel and explore Cagayan province. I was able to Explore Palaui again and its enchanting beauty. You can read my full story here.

*I completed Maktrav with my cousin Reynald and some new friends. You can read my full story here.

*The opportunity to visit the old churches within the metro to give thanks for this amazing year. You can read my story here.

*A chance to revisit cawag and finally completed Cinco picos traverse.You can read my story here.

*Experience the feel of adrenaline rush in extreme adventures in one day. Rock scrambling and spelunking in Bulacan. You can read my story here.

*I faced the challenge of completing the Bakun Trio in Poblacion, Benguet before the year end. You can read my story here.

I climb 11 mountains and 4 waterfalls

... I visited 13 century old churches

...I visited 14 provinces

...I enjoy 8 beautiful beaches

... I gain more friends

It’s so nice to be able to look back on a great year with fond memories and a big smile.

  I am thankful, grateful, and truly blessed to have received all that I have this year.  There is really nothing to complain about.

I’m filled with gratitude to my family, to my health and to my experiences. Therefore, I’m going to indulge in reviewing what went well in 2014 and not let the year slip away without some reflection of what i learned in 2014. 

Chronicles of Bakun Trio : Day 3 Mt. Kabunian

3:30 AM 

It seemed like I had only slept for 2 hours when i hear the alarm, it was around 3:30 am. I was a bit hesitant to get up. It was still moderately dark, but, I then prepared myself and my gears. Even though it was TOO COLD, i can sense that the weather is perfect — with stars in the sky. Thankfully we were treated to our last breakfast in Bakun. I felt extremely fortunate and grateful for this experience.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast our trek gently started. I was a bit nervous this time because I cant ignore the pain anymore.

The first part is all cemented stairs, with concrete handrail, not as easy as it sounds, the descent was extremely steep, and the fatigue after days of trekking makes it one of the hardest part.

The trail descends steeply downward so I need to walk slowly and under control as my sore legs and aching stomach continuously battling the pain. 

An hour into the trek i felt an extreme pain in my stomach, then my mind started to regret the decision of going up for this third day. I feel my peripheral vision go black as I take my next step, then I chose to stop and take some rest. 

Every now and then I would stop and look around me. But, the golden colors of the dawn and an astonishing sun rising are reflected beautifully on mountain ranges. The scenery was breath-taking, and the views of Bakun range made it all worth it. So i'd still continue.

We crossed a few bridges, then we enter a peaceful forested area for the remainder of the descent, and then started the steep and long ascent to the first waiting shed. My legs were beginning to suffer from the hard uphill trek, the uphill is too steep that made each step forward a challenge.

After crossing the 4th hanging bridge the step is very steep and slippery at times, from this point onwards the terrain becomes more challenging. I could also see the hidden side of the mountain range from this part. 

7 Am 

I reached the first waiting shed and water station. The weather this time was simply fantastic, It was bright sunny day with beautiful clouds in the sky.

After  roughly 15 minutes of break from this station our group started the trek again. This time we are totally left behind, and i was already struggling to keep up with my own pace.  And not to mention the sun was out, the blazing and relentless heat from the scorching sun started at this point, unfortunately there's no trees at this part where you can seek some shade.

While there are steep ascents like in Mt Lobo and Mt Tenglawan, there are periods of a leisurely walk as well. And despite its technical status on some part of the trail, In certain parts, a skimpy trail had been carved into the side of the mountain, one mistake and you will fall to your death, no ropes are required , handrails was installed, but it isn’t a trek to be taken lightly. 

After crossing the ridge, facing the summit, an ascending slope with steep steps were carved into the mountain with handrails on both side for support. From here the views is already amazing, and the reason why i was so eager to climb Mt Kabunian is now visible to my eyes. As soon as i reached the higher part all I could think about was stopping. I couldn’t go on anymore. I sat down and dropped my bag, very exhausted. I told Sir Karl and Sir Donne that I'm done. I'm satisfied, i've seen my purpose. I'm not going to the summit. Seeing the other group approaching he summit, I told them that they can go on and i can just wait for them and rest at this part, but they are not leaving without me. At this moment I am doubting myself very much, and i'm feeling disconnected. I find that I doubt myself the most when I'm comparing what I'm doing with what other people are doing. I know its wrong, but hey one of the reason i wanted to climb bakun is because of this part of the trail in Mt kabunian. I know , better views of the surroundings and breathtaking scenery is waiting at the summit. And, I would have stopped this trek earlier if I'm not completing this trek. Eventually after 30 minutes the discussion ended right then and there, sir karl and sir donne will not summit without me, my decision was made, I'm climbing the last summit. I decided to be brave and continued the assault to the summit. I would never regret my choice.

In no time we started the trek again. My Head is down and focused on the ground as it was too much to look on into the distance ahead. As I got closer, I got more and more tired. But luckily i have Sir Karl and Sir Donne and our lady guide with me who is very helpful so i was very eager to finish the climb this time. After crossing the last hanging bridge, some rocky paths is needed to carefully complete. And before reaching its summit you will pass through the side of the huge rocky side of kabunian which used to be a burial grounds, hence the presence of box coffins can be seen from the trail.

In less than 30 minutes we reached the last water station. I have no idea how I got the courage to continue, but with every step I take, I was chanting to myself “it’s ok, your almost there".

The views couldn’t get any better as we start the final assault, i stopped frequently to take in the beauty and the fresh air of that morning. Finally our last day of trekking is finished. I know its not over , i still have the descend back to poblacion to maneuver.

Reaching the top of the pass was an incredible feeling. That kind of happiness you can hardly describe with words. The beautiful mountain range is calm and serene. The air was crisp, weather, its perfect. My sense of achievement is overflowing. My doubts - it was instantly vanished. I made it. This trek has allowed me to learn more about myself. When I reflect on Mt Kabunian, I immediately remember the feeling of accomplishment.

That being said, trekking Mt Kabunian is worth it. It was one of the most beautiful and picture perfect things I’ve ever seen. 

After taking some pictures the group decided to start going down. We need to catch up with our itinerary. I also need to take some meds that i forgot to bring with me. So I ask Sir Jojo if I can go ahead first.

The downhill return trek was a lot easier than the climb up the summit of kabunian,  i opt for a walk-run technique which seemed to work best for me.  I covered in just 2 hours back what took almost 5 hours to do going up. 

Towards the end of the concrete stairs my legs were completely wrecked and felt like I'm going to collapse. But hey Im almost there.

At exactly 11 am  i finished the grueling stairs, I was so tired, hungry, and thirsty, but I'm very much alive.

We wrapped up our last day in Bakun with a sumptous lunch. Altogether Bakun trio is one of my most incredible trip.

Chronicles of Bakun Trio : Day 2 Mt. Tenglawan

I woke up at 3 am  fearing this day after being told how hard Mt tenglawan would be. And my first 

thought was "I wish I finish this day successfully". My legs were pretty exhausted from the 

previous long walk yesterday , but somehow it prepared me for this much awaited Mt. Tenglawan 

climb. 

Dawn comes in the blink of an eye. Then there is the smell of fresh air, so undefinable and the 

biting chill in the morning air, so deliciously fresh. It has an aroma which reinvigorates my body 

and truly freshens up my spirit. 

A glorious breakfast of sautéed tomatoes with "tuyo", scrambled egg with Zucchini and sayote was 

served with hot coffee. I immediately felt a new rush of energy that I knew I’d need to make it 

through the day, and I was already looking forward to another day of great hiking.

6 AM

We got off to a fairly fast start. We hiked with light day packs and It was a descending trail at 

first, passing through sun flower and coffee bean trail, then the cogon grass trail and finally 

crossing two hanging bridges that will prompt the start of the ascent to sitio beyeng. The trail 

was up and down, that made it harder. The almost 1 hour descent was fairly easy but I bet it will 

take hours for us to trek this part later, that's why I keep in mind that i need to save enough 

energy, for once we get back from the summit we need to pass the same trail back to our base camp 

later. One thing i also notice, there is far less litter on the trail.

The weather that time as we start our ascent was rather unsympathetic, as we were crossing the 

open ridge it expose us directly to the beating sun. The only fortunate part was that we could see 

the amazing views of the "crying mountain" and the summit in the far distance.

Throughout the hike, we were surrounded by incredible views, beautiful mountains on all sides, a 

picturesque waterfalls on a distance, rice terraces, and incredible blue sky and cold weather. There were waiting sheds along the way where we stopped to rest and drink water.

9 Am

Touchdown sitio Beyeng, we regroup at this part and at the same time refill our water. The rice terraces and the beautiful landscapes is really fascinating at this point.  Although they were not as grandiose as the one in Banaue, Hapao, Mayoyao and Batad, this still gives you a sense of awe to how great the people of cordillera and their way of living. We also had a glimpse of how the people of sitio beyeng assemble to celebrate sunday mass at the top of the ridge. The back of the church offers superb views along its upper reaches, and makes a great place for worship.  

Right after passing sitio beyeng, there is an open road, a tapulao like trail, our guide says some 

vehicles pass through this road going to sinacbat proper. Reaching this higher part of the ridge, 

one can clearly see the three summits of Tenglawan, Lubo and Kabunian. A very scenic view. 

After the open road, the trail is in good shape, theres pine trees around to provide shades for a 

quick refuge, several ascends and descends through a farmer's trail with some crops is grown are  

easily passable. And, as you get closer to the peak, the slope becomes more difficult to climb.

I have so many stories to tell passing through the farmer's trail,but i will just keep it to 

myself. And, while walking through the dedicated walkers footpath, we encounter a herd of cows. 

Luckily they didnt chase us. But as we pass by the rocky part of the trail some carabaos greeted 

us with their vicious weapons. I find them  aggressive and ready to attack. If you can't beat 

them, join them, this is what i have in mind, so we did. And, we outsmart them. :)

Finally got a closer glimpse of Mt. Tenglawan and it was only then that I realized hiking Mt Tenglawan is harder than i thought. It is not exactly an easy climb with or without a backpack. And, when you look at Mt Tenglawan, it seems impossible to make it all the way to the top, but when you divide it into steps, it becomes possible.

We climb through different terrains and saw so many beautiful views. Gradually we started the 

ascent to the most challenging part going to the summit. The first part is an easy climb, with 

concrete stairway and handrail designed to be grasped by the hand so as to provide stability and support. But after this part you’ll be trekking on a dangerous trail. The trail is steep at around 60-70 degree-angle of inclination with loose rocks so you need to really find your way up, we were all wondering how on earth we would get back down the same trail. I almost give up on this part, the steps were so steep and relentless, thought I couldn’t go on anymore, i thought I’d be on them forever, but i need to move on and follow the group because we run out of water. Slowly I regained my composure and finally essayed again to attempt the final assault to the summit. 

We reached the last water source around 12 Noon. It was quite an insane experience and it was certainly the hardest, and most merciless thing I've done this year. Not to mention we dont have a packed lunch for this trek, We were at the point where talk gravitates to the subject of food and nothing but food. I have severe stomach pain that time, luckily the cold water satisfy my hunger. We had a nice moment at the last water station near the summit, this is where we regrouped so we 

could summit together. 

The last phase of the climb is the final assault through akiki-like trail, this final strech was a real hell. I didn’t want to know how much more climbing we had left. But i push my limits, and the challenge of this trail was 100% mental. Our guide stated that we only had about 2 hours of hiking to reach our final destination, but the screaming pain in my legs and stomach was no longer so easy to ignore. I was lucky enough to have a really nice, friendly trail buddy named Berna.

“Almost there!” I just kept telling myself. And finally after almost seven hours of tough climbing, we reached the summit of Mt Tenglawan. I did it! I reached the summit and blessed with clear skies to witness the most beautiful views. 

I wasted little time finding a good seat to rest, meditate and pray, then i enjoy the views. I simply hide some tears as i realize I'm on the top, i cried because i didnt think it was possible for me to reach the summit. I'm thrilled to announce that I'm still alive. But, hey I never expected that this challenging climb would turn into a life changing experience. This is an epic climb. 

And after several minutes i notice that some of the group climb a rock formation just beside the summit. Enchanted by what other wonders might possibly await at the peak, I reluctantly decided to also climb the other side of the summit, which is significantly steeper.

Base on my research, everyone who climbs Tenglawan likes to touch the cross marker hammered into the rock. It's silly i know, but I did it. It makes the entire ordeal worthwhile just to touch that piece of metal. It gives me a sense of accomplishment.

Well, I am here to tell you that the hike to get to Mt tenglawan's summit is really difficult. The walk was horrible, but the scenery was awesome.  It was definitely a different experience, and I do have a lot of stories to tell.

After almost an hour in the summit the group decided to go down. The descend back proved to be pretty painful. I was expecting it to be a fairly easy way down, but i was wrong, going down  took a toll on different muscles, both knees and ankles. I wanted to keep walking and walking but my legs is not moving anymore. It wasn’t just the uphill that was hard either, the downhill was not much any better and my knees is feeling it.

I walked for what felt like an eternity to my tired legs,and aching stomach up and over hills, 

down through valleys, stopping occasionally for some water.

Climbing Mt tenglawan was without a doubt the most difficult and challenging climb either of us 

has ever done, and I'm overjoyed i checked it off my bucket list before 2014 ends. If you’re 

asking me whether it was worth all the blood, sweat and tears during the hike ,the views alone 

were completely worth it. 

Yes, the hike was hard and I often wanted to give up and go back to our base camp. But reaching the 

summit and the "pico monolith-like peak", and enjoying the stunning landscapes made every 

treacherous twist and turn along the way worth it.

I would like to say thank you to Team Push It , especially to Sir Jojo. The group was a really 

great bunch of people and you all really helped me make the experience that much more wonderful. 

Also, a special thanks to our amazing guides. 

Finally the team reach the municipal hall almost 8 pm, very tired and hungry. And the best treat by far, OUR DINNER. It was impressive. I ate almost everything for dinner.

Chronicles of Bakun Trio : Day 1 Mt. Lobo

C'est la vie. That’s the bottom line. I am sick (its all in the mind) , i have current serious stomach pain and some knee problems. But I loved to climb - so be it.

I still had a week before my schedule monthly check-up, but then I decided to join Sir Jojo with team PUSH IT for a Bakun trio climb. Not a bad plan. I had never climbed Bakun before, and i want it out of my bucket lists so I was super keen to go. It was actually about finding the right spot with the right conditions/companions at that time.

5 Am Baguio City

It was a 4 hour long drive going to Dada, our first destination. We have a quick stop at Halselma highway for some photo session. Nostalgic, Really.

From kibungan intersection the rough road has started. What a thrill. The ride going to Bakun can be more dangerous than those pine forest and upland ravines. However, we had a terrific driver, very skilled and very careful. I'm a fan. I salute you kuya Ismael.

10 Am Dada

After the bumpy ride and the delightful scenery we arride at Brgy. Dada. Blue sky and the stunning slopes greeted us with a smile. The cool morning air and scent of pine needles is addicting, the scent is so heavy in the cool morning air, it was deep and sweeter.

Immediately after a short briefing we started our great escarpment. But 15 minutes later , the sky suddenly darkened. I began second-guessing the weather. The pouring weak rain soon followed.

We have no choice but continue the trek or we might not make it on time to poblacion before sunset. Halfway heavy downpour began, we have no choice but to have a break at a house that offer some sort of shelter. Luckily "Ate" offered me some lemons, fresh from the trees, I picked them , interesting, but hey the folks I met here were exceptional.

The shower was short-lived, then, the rain stopped. It was still past 11 am and the sky is more clear, right away we started our ascend all the way to the summit.No rain gear needed.

Mt Lobo is considered the easiest of the Trio. I learned, however, that Mt Lobo is not that easy. Despite the easier expected trail conditions, the way up to the summit was a strenuous hike.

Our guide mentioned that a metal railing was already built to make access to the summit more easier. In no time we reached our first peak. we were not blessed with an amazing weather but i proud to say "yes im done with Mt. Lobo". A bit of clouds or a cloudy day at the summit adds up to an enchanting views, and that changes all the time. I wasnt discouraged about hiking Mt Lobo in these conditions.

Past 1 Pm.

After our lunch and some photo sessions the group started to descend. Climbing again after lunch was a challenge. It was tempting to stay for more hours but we have to - so in no time we started to descent.

From Mt. Lobo's summit the trail is more scenic, but now its more longer and tougher. My Mantra is " slowly and surely" on my way down. Its because the descent became a little harder with a lot more rocky bits and steep mountain slope.

It’s a long, long way down going to poblacion proper. But the amazing scenery continued. I was fascinated with the glimpses of other ways of life and landscapes.

I enjoyed the walking. I do the talk, I do the walk. I never get bored, which is what usually happens when I hike.

Needless to say, one of our group member got semi-injured on our way down.

Most of the descent was along a ridgeline. From the pine forest trail, the hanging bridge, the picturesque villages and terraced fields leading down to Poblacion is visible. Happily, views got even better now. It's a bit bizzare walking back into civilization.

The first group made it down to Poblacion proper at around 5 pm, and walked through a residential area with beautiful vegetation garden, crossing bridges overlooking the trail from the summit of Mt. Lobo.

There was one particular event I wanted to share. After distributing some of the candies and school supplies i have for the kids and While taking a rest at Poblacion's Barangay hall , one kid approach me and said "Thank you". That really made my heart jump for joy, knowing those kids doesnt know how to speak tagalog. The speaking eyes of the little kid do things to me that I could never explain. Indeed, the heart does not seek “fixes” but insight and understanding.

I want to say thank you Bakun for giving me the courage to continue. I would keep this with me for the longest time.

This being our first night at Poblacion, we stayed at a lovely old Municipal Hall which serve as our home for the next 3 days and 2 nights. The place is so good, with more embracing views of the surrounding mountains and valley.

How much I wish my system did not hurt that much, so I could take another trek tomorrow morning.

I doubt I’ll forget this experience to soon.

Thank You Bakun Trio..

Since I started mountaineering, it has been my wish to someday climb and complete the Bakun trio. I been hearing a lot of good reviews with Bakun , and looking at some pictures it made me more excited and eager to climb Bakun. The excitement I felt when I actually came to Bakun, Benguet and saw the mountain ranges that compose the Bakun trio was incomparable. The incredibly beautiful scenery dazzled my eyes. I thought, “I want to climb to the top.” And so I did.

The Bakun Trio is compose of three mountains; Mt. Kabunian, Mt. Tenglawan, and Mt. Lobo. The Bakun Municipal Hall serves as our basecamp for three days and two nights, and i was amaze with the people of Poblacion , Bakun, they are very accommodating. One may choose to do day hikes for each mountain and follow several itinerary. Our group did the Lobo-Tenglawan and lastly Kabunian dayhikes per day.

Arriving at the summit of Lobo, tenglawan and Kabunian justifies the hours of climb. The views are incomparable at each summit, and even on a cloudy day at mount Lobo summit where you can actually see little but the neighbouring peaks jutting above the cloud layers, it is still amazing. Gazing into the beauty of each mountain reinforce the sense of accomplishment. I'm proud to say "yes I'm done with Bakun".

Here’s a quick rundown of what I experience with the Bakun trio. Like always, I can only note my opinions based from my experience.

MT. KABUNIAN

Trek time: 6-8 hrs (ascent and descent)

Difficulty : I consider it Easy to moderate. There are some steep climbs and it can take you 3-4 hours to reach the summit and 2 hrs descent back to poblacion.

Trail type: forested area with hanging bridges ( if i remember it correctly you need to cross 4-5 hanging bridges going to the summit), concrete steps with iron railing, it also involve scrambling and exposure to heights, rugged terrain in the form of loose rock and bushy cogon sections of trail. It also features a killer trail which impose amazing boulders.

Water source: There is two available water source. The first one is after crossing the 3rd hanging bridge going up the concrete stairs. The last one is 15 minutes before the summit, just be sure you have enought water before reaching the last one.

Summit : The views that morning from Mt Kabunian were exceptionally amazing and we could clearly see Mt. Tenglawan and the amazing mountain ravine in the distance. Although unlike the other two summit mt. kabunian's summit has no destinctive landmark, but before reaching its summit you will pass through the side of the huge rocky side of kabunian which used to be a burial grounds, hence the presence of box coffins can be seen from the trail.

Notes: I consider Mt.kabunian easy to moderate, but keep in mind, though, Mt. Kabunian is no joke. There will be sweat involved all the way to the summit. a slip on loose rock that was wet could lead to a nasty fall down the slide to the bottom of the ravine. I recommend you start climbing early in the morning to avoid too much exposure to the sun's heat, i also recomment mt. Kabunian as your last mountain to complete the trio.

MT.TENGLAWAN

Trek time: 14-16 hours (ascent and descent)

Difficulty : I consider Tenglawan moderate to Difficult. There are some steep climbs and it can take you 6-8 hours to reach the summit and 6-7 hrs descent back to poblacion.

Trail type: forested area with hanging bridges ( if i remember it correctly you need to cross 2 hanging bridges going to the summit), the open trail which made the hiker expose to the sun, the rocky trail and the farmers trail, ravines with loose rocks, the akiki-like trail (this trail almost made me give up), and lastly the mossy forest before the summit.

Water source: we identified two watersource going to tenglawan, first is from the community and the last one is before you start the akiki-like trail.

Summit : The very distinct landmark at Mt tenglawan is the cross on top of a rock protrusion just beside the peak, the rock formation is similar to the monolith of pico de loro. A nice view of Bayombong, nueva vizcaya can be seen from afar.

Notes: Mt. Tenglawan was said to be the hardest of the 3 mountains of Bakun, i will definitely agree with this. Doing Mt Lobo on our first day prepared us for the long hike to Tenglawan.

MT.LOBO (Dada to Poblacion)

Trek time: 5-7 hours (ascent and descent)

Difficulty : I consider it Easy to moderate. There are some steep climbs and it can take you 2-3 hours to reach the summit and 3-4 hrs descent to poblacion.

Trail type: farmers trail, steep trail,red soil with pine trees,

and rock assault on final leg to summit but manageable since they built an iron railings all the way to the summit. Hanging bridge and forested trail going to poblacion.

Water source: we pass by two water source going to poblacion from the summit.

Summit : Rocky summit. I think mt lobo can offer a very good 360-degree view at the summit, No clearing for us. I was a bit disappointed, but at least we made it to the top.

You really need to be very lucky with the weather.

Notes: The long descent going to poblacion is tiring, going down through loose rock makes for a challenging descend, but the views are worth the effort.

All-in-all the climb is worth it. From the amazing views, the challenging trail, the accommodating people of poblacion and lastly the friendship and camaraderie i have from bakun. Somehow, i would say hikes never seem to end at the summit of the mountain. The truth is that we are always climbing a ‘mountain’ of some kind every day. After giving out that much energy to climb and complete Bakun trio, it seems its fair to say that i can climb every mountain from now on. They are in effect what we choose to dedicate our lives to.

Completing Bakun Trio was such an amazing experience. I have only had a couple of other experiences where I have to pushed my body to its limits and I always feel so alive when I do. The hike is a great opportunity for me to reflect, to be more thankful for iam still alive and climbing. I will forever be grateful to you Bakun. Thank you for this once in a lifetime experience.

And the New7Wonders Cities are…

I came across a pretty interesting article today from yahoo.com (you can read the full story here).  Wow. I was surprise that Vigan made it to the New7Wonders Cities. It was very nostalgic. 

This article is part of my ongoing attempt to corral all of my travel/climb photos on this blog.

I must admit the old city of Vigan is not on the top of my list of ‘must see’ in my Ilocos Adventure wayback 2000. But after visiting it for the first time it change my mind and it marked my appreciation for antique, culture and history.

If you like to travel in the past, this is one of the perfect place for you. Upon reaching Vigan, I've felt like I'm in another time.  It's like going back some hundred years ago.

December inspire me to think about and plan new travel journeys or even relive some of my memorable experiences.

Vigan is a place where wonderful experiences never end.It is just so amazing to look back and see the cultural history of this old city, the old brick roads and the heritage houses. There is always more to explore, to discover, to see, to taste, and to feel in this old city.

There are so many places to visit around the country, so I hate going back to the same place again and again. However I fell in LOVE with Vigan and have been back several times and I wouldn’t mind going back again.

I must encourage anyone having doubts about Vigan as to whether it is worth a time to visit. Absolutely, absolutely YES.

jps-travelogue visita la iglesia series 25 : The Mauban Church - Mauban, Quezon

The Church of Mauban stands a few meters near Mauban's pier, fronting Lamon Bay. It is under the protection of St. Bonaventure, the town's patron saint. Beautiful and charming town.

Its is really worth visiting Mauban,Quezon. You can do a sidetrip to this old Catholic Church, eat at the restaurants/pedicab to try their pancit habhab and halo-halo (a must for everyone).

Very nice and interesting church to visit. Aside from attending the mass, the view is also worth visiting.

Quick Facts on The Church of Mauban

Church Information

Names : The Roman Catholic Parish Church of Saint James the Apostle 

Founded : 1864

Architectural type : baroque 

Location :  Paete, Laguna

Main attraction : The large wall paintings on wood panels inside the church. The intricate retablo which is so beautifully done.

The hidden beauty of Sta. Ana

Sta. Ana has fascinating beaches. I visited two well known beaches in Sta. Ana, one is Anguib and the other is Nangaramoan. It was a paradise, indeed. I was stunned by the hidden beauty of this beaches. My narration will only tell some of my experiences in Anguib.

You can reach this place by land or by Boat. And if your afraid of big waves i recommend you take a motorcycle from Sta. ana proper or if your up for an adventure go for the boat from san vicente port and it includes a sidetrip to the mangrove forest, a very nice mangrove forest and if you are lucky enough you'd catch a flock of birds at this place.

Anguib beach is made famous by last seasons US Survivor Palaui and Cagayan. They say this is the Boracay of the North, Anguib Beach has a powdery soft white sand and shallow waters,like Anawangin it has pine trees which compliment the beautiful beach.

First destination is the Mangrove forest park (the biggest mangrove park i been to). From here you can see a mini white sand beach in the middle of the mangrove forest and bird watching is also good here. Since the park is only accessible during high tide and it is almost getting low tide the boat man decided that we leave the place right away.

After a while, i could see a long strip of white beach waiting for me. As the boat approached the beach, i was left speechless by the sight of clear green and blue waters greeting me with the most assuring white beach in the north and I was immediately distracted by the sight of numerous colourful fish swimming around the boat.

Usually being more of an active traveller, I was looking forward to spending a few days lazing on a white sand beach, feet dangling in the water or trekking, but I was antonished by the silence of Anguib and how its beauty seemed to have calmed down my mind and body. For a while, I thought everything is good, but looking back at the sky and the different shades of clouds that is visible in the sky, I was brought back to the reality of a bad weather waiting for me at this cove.

The water in anguib is a real emerald green colour, which is complimented by deep white sand. The beaches are surrounded by some rock formations that jut out of the water, covered in patches of greenery stone. The setting is enchanting, and gives a completely different feel to the other beaches that i been. I presumed all of these beaches would be stunning and 'same, same, but different'. But as it turns out, there is no 'same, same' at all, only beautiful and different.

What more would you ask for? This is a beach bummer's haven. And if you want to stay out for some quiet time this is a perfect place,  it was like i owned this place. Such a Perfect hideaway. 

At the mangrove forest

the beachfront of Anguib where survivor immunity challenge was shoot

some of the props use for survivor

beautiful rock formation at the right end part of anguib

@ nangaramoan beach